Arvada Press 081023

98th Arvada Harvest Festival moving ahead at Clear Creek Valley Park

How Arvada’s One Small Step program is combatting homelessness

BY LILLIAN FUGLEI LFUGLEI@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

As cities across the nation look for ways to assist unhoused people, Arvada is utilizing a program designed to help — One Small Step.

One Small Step is designed as a way to rehabilitate criminal defendants experiencing homelessness without punitive measures. Instead of facing jail time or nes for low-level o enses, participants are connected with resources to better their lives.

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e 98th Arvada Harvest Festival will look a bit di erent than years past, as most of the beloved local event will be held at Clear Creek Val-

ley Park this year from Sept. 8 to 10. Unlike the other facets of the festival, the parade is not moving — it will be held at 9 a.m. on Sept. 9 on 58th Avenue between Tabor Street and Miller Street; just like last year.

e move to Clear Creek Valley Park comes after years of discussion between the festival’s organizers — the Arvada Junior Chamber Foundation, or Jaycees — and the City of Arvada that have centered on returning the festival to its original footprint in Olde Town Arvada.

Renee Nelson, the Co-Chair of the Arvada Harvest Festival Committee,

said the move was necessitated to ensure the tradition would reach its centennial anniversary. Nelson said that the city’s proposal would have cost the Jaycees its nonpro t 501(c)3 status.

“We had to go (to Clear Creek Valley Park) to ensure we would make it to our 100th year,” Nelson said. “ e city tried to force us into the footprint of where the BID hosts events, where the BID would run (the Harvest Festival) and we would just volunteer and show up — that would

When defendants participate regularly and complete the program, punitive measures such as jail time or nes can be waived.

e program restarted in January 2021 after experiencing a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Housed within the municipal court, One Small Step is overseen by Municipal Judge Kathryn Kurtz.

“All of our defendants are really, really good, kind-hearted people who’ve just had a lot of struggles in their life,” said Kurtz. “I think the coolest part about it is watching people make progress and positive change in their life.”

The parade at last year’s Harvest Festival on 58th Avenue. The parade will continue on the same route this year, while the festival itself will move to Clear Creek Valley Park.

PHOTO BY RYLEE DUNN

Move comes after years of negotiating with the City of Arvada to return event to Olde Town

“I can’t keep living this life no more”

FESTIVAL

have cost us our nonpro t status. Neither was committing to the Harvest Festival beyond this year.”

is year, Arvada City Manager

Lorie Gillis proposed multiple paths forward to the Jaycees which were eventually declined by the nonpro t.

e rst proposal would have seen the festival continue in the same footprint as last year; mostly o 58th Avenue, with in-kind support from the city including APD presence, tra c control and street sweeping.

e second proposal would have seen the event return to Olde Town under control of the Olde Town Business Improvement District — not the Jaycees. Under this proposal, the Jaycees would have been recognized as a “Legacy Sponsor” of the event and would have been given $10,000 to fund prizes for the parade and scholarships.

A statement from the Harvest Festival Committee explained why going along with the city’s proposal to have the BID take over the Harvest Festival was untenable, and why it would have cost the organization its nonpro t status.

e statement also highlighted that Grandview Avenue was the original lcoation for the festival because in the beggining, the festival

celebrated the paving of Grandview Avenue.

“ e City Manager allowed a taxing authority (BID) to le as the Arvada Harvest Festival which would be illegal and we would lose our 501(c)3 status,” the statement said.

“ ey created restrictions forcing this historic event out of Olde Town on Grandview Avenue and has been its home for well over 90 years.

“ e City Council also supported the removal of a number of the festival’s most beloved events, such as the bands and movie in Mcilvoy Park, the carnival, plus created other physical constraints that reduced the event’s ability to hold other crowd pleasing activities,” the statement continued. “Our volunteer created and operated event struggles to keep the robust stature the festival has always provided and is working hard to adjust to the only viable site the City approved has made available to us.”

Joe Hengstler, director of the Olde Town BID, said the city approached the BID to run the event due to their experience executing events in Olde Town. e BID’s festival footprint would not have been able to accommodate some aspects of the festival’s carnival portion, which was not feasible for the Jaycees.

“We explored working with the Arvada Jaycees to bring the Harvest Festival back to Olde Town Arvada,” Hengstler said. “Unfortunately, that did not work out, largely due to

some of the traditions that (the Jaycees) wanted to maintain that just wasn’t going to be possible in the footprint we would use for an Olde Town Arvada event…I think the biggest one was wanting to maintain the carnival.

“And additionally, the reality is, that when you have two organizations who are essentially trying to make the festival nancially viable, it does get more complicated when you have limited revenue sources,” Hengstler continued. “And I think having the carnival was important for (the Jaycees) and part of their nancial.”

Furthermore, the future of the Harvest Festival beyond this year became a sticking point in negotiations.

Under the latter proposal, the city would have had discretion to decide how the event would move forward — the Arvada Festival Commission would have been considered to take over the event; the decision would have been made “based on what is in the best interest of the community,” according to Gillis’ email to the Harvest Festival Committee.

“When we looked at it, we weren’t looking at the 100th year,” Hengstler said. “I think everybody wants to get to the 100th year and it’s a great community festival, and that would be the goal, but we didn’t talk about commitments past this year.”

Now, the festival will move ahead in a new location during a busy weekend in Arvada — the Rocky Mountain Archtop Guitar Festival and a new event in Olde Town, the Olde Town Shindig, will also take place that weekend.

Hengstler said the Olde Town Shindig — which will have live music which will partly supplement the Archtop Festival — was to continue with a plan to host an event in Olde Town that weekend.

“ e impetus for the (Olde Town Shindig) was to still do something special that weekend in Olde Town for our businesses, but also in collaboration with the Rocky Mountain Archtop Guitar Festival,” Hengstler said.

“We think that it’s going to just be an awesome weekend — between the parade, the Harvest Festival, the Olde Town Shindig and the Rocky Mountain Archtop Guitar Festival, there is just going to be a ton of things for people to do that weekend,” Hengstler continued.

A statement from Arvada’s Director of Communication Rachael Kuroiwa highlighted the many events happening in Arvada that weekend, including the Harvest Festival.

“ e City is looking forward to hosting a fun and safe Harvest Festival Parade,” Kuroiwa said. “ e weekend of September 8, 9 and 10 will be a very fun and exciting weekend for the community with a wealth of events that are sure to interest everyone!

“ e historic Harvest Festival will have their parade in Arvada and festival events in beautiful Clear Creek Valley Park, Olde Town will once again be hosting the Rocky Mountain Arch Top fest and a new Olde Town Shindig music and art festival,” Kuroiwa continued. “ e City of Arvada is proud to play host to a wealth of family fun on one weekend.”

Two suspects, accomplice, arrested in Arvada 7-Eleven shooting

Three suspects arrested in connection with the July 28 shooting at the 7-Eleven on Ralston Road.

upon leaving the store, people in the vicinity tried to intervene, which allegedly led to the suspects ring upon them. e suspects then ed the scene.

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Two male suspects and a female accomplice were arrested on Aug. 1 and 2 following a shooting at the 7-Eleven on Ralston Road and Wadsworth Boulevard on July 28 which left three individuals injured.

On July 28, two male suspects allegedly shoplifted at the 7-Eleven;

ree victims were struck with gun re and were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Zimeal Cain, 22, and Raymoun Moore, 24, were arrested a day apart without incident. Pricilla Mendez, also 22, was arrested on suspicion of having been involved in the shooting, also without incident.

All three suspects are jailed pending the ling of charges by the First Judicial District Attorney’s O ce.

Three individuals struck by gunfire while trying to intervene in robbery

HOMELESSNESS

Participants in the program attend weekly check-in meetings where they update the court on their lives. During these meetings, participants are also given the opportunity to speak with resource navigators who can help connect them with many resources, including housing, food and clothing.

Housing navigators from Je erson County and the City of Arvada are

available to participants, as are resources from Community Table Food Bank and other local aid organizations.

e program currently has approximately 120 participants, with 40 participants attending on a weekly basis. Since January 2021, the program has seen 10 graduates. Graduating from the program looks di erent for each participant, but typically they no longer bene t from the resources o ered by One Small Step, meaning they have homes and are employed.

O cer Chris Humphrys, who is on Arvada Police Department’s CORE

team — which deals most frequently with the city’s homeless population — believes the program helps to connect unhoused people in Arvada with resources they need and holds them accountable to achieving their goals.

When he gives tickets that enroll people in the program, Humphrys knows they’re facing help — not punishment.

“ e consequence for this ticket is getting o the street,” Humphrys said. “...No ne. ere’s no jail time, if you comply with the program. You’re just taking the literal one small step. We work with folks to try to get them

plugged into the resources. When they come back next week, they tell us about the progress they’ve made.”

However, the support doesn’t stop at graduation. Humphrys mentioned one recent graduate of the program, who now works concessions at the Pepsi Center, continues to come every week to connect with the community created by One Small Step.

“You don’t have to keep coming if you don’t want to, but we’re happy to see you every week,” Humphrys said to the graduate. “And they were

What Are Some of the Common Mistakes That Homeowners Make When Selling?

I received an editorial submission on this topic, and it’s a good one, but I have my own points to make. The subheads are his, the paragraphs are mine.

Overpricing Your Home: We all make this mistake at times. The important thing is to take quick action. You know it’s overpriced when there are few or no showings and no offers. Don’t wait— reduce the price immediately or risk it becoming “stale.”

Neglecting Necessary Repairs: But what’s necessary? A furnace at the end of its expected life may be needed, but it’s not going to generate more showings or offers. Leave it as an issue to be brought up at inspection. Call it “lipstick on a pig” if you want, but I favor spending money on making your home more appealing visually to buyers, starting with your lawn care/landscaping and the exterior look of your home.

Follow-up on Recirculation Systems for Water Heaters

A reader from Arvada pointed out that it’s possible to have a hot water recirculation system on a tankless water heater. (I said you could only do this with a tank water heater.) Thanks for the correction.

He also disputed my recommendation of installing such a system saying the convenience could be costly in terms of electricity used by the recirculation pump.

However, none of my three installations of a recirculation line required the installation of a pump because the water heater was in my unfinished basement and the hot water naturally rose through the pipe circuit to the rooms above. A tankless system does require a pump, making it inefficient.

I focus on what I call “eyesores”: things that draw negative attention from a visitor to your home — carpet stains or noticeable wear; hardwood that badly needs refinishing; damaged countertops, etc. You get the idea. Note: the further the eyesore is from the front door, the less serious it is. The buyer has already fallen in or out of love with your house by the time he or she notices the shag carpeting in the basement bedroom. They are not going to change their minds by then.

Poor Home Staging/Presentation: I provide a free home staging consultation because this is so important. Decluttering and thinning your possessions is the one improvement that costs almost nothing. If you don’t want to do this, I’ll refer you to another Realtor and get a referral fee! I want my sellers to appreciate the importance of “looking good.”

Mistakes in Marketing/Listing: This is why you should use Golden Real Estate! We don’t skimp on marketing, as you have probably noticed. We do only magazine quality HDR photos using a professional photographer. We do narrated video tours with drone footage. Our “for sale” signs are classy and have solar powered lights. (And we make sure our signs are vertical.) We purchase a website URL for every listing. And we do all this whether it’s an inexpensive condo or a multi-million dollar home. Oh, yes, we also have this newspaper ad in the Denver Post plus three weekly newspapers which puts our listings in front of over 200,000 people who still read!

Just Listed: 3-BR Bungalow in Denver’s Park Hill

One piece of marketing that costs the agent only time, not money, is to complete ALL MLS data fields, not just the mandatory ones. Some of those optional fields, such as descriptions of each room, add a great deal of information for buyers. We complete those optional fields.

Ignoring Local Market Trends: We are currently in a “balanced” real estate market. The “seller’s market” of last year is over, but some sellers and their agents price their homes at a wished-for price that isn’t reflective of the slower, lower market that we are now in. I like how Megan Aller puts it in her market trends reports: “Sellers think it’s 2020 and buyers think it’s 2008.”

Above all, remember that all real estate is local — it can be rising in one

Join the American Solar Energy Society for the Solar Village & Electric Vehicle Show on Friday, August 11th, 10am to 4pm, in front of CU Boulder’s University Memorial Center. There will be solar energy workshops, exhibits, EV shows, and activities for kids that are free and open to the public. Anyone interested in sustainable energy and energy efficiency is invited to visit this event, sponsored by the American Solar Energy Society, New Energy Colorado, and the Colorado Renewable Energy Society.

The Solar Village will offer a variety of educational displays and experts covering photovoltaic systems, heat pumps, passive

neighborhood and falling in another. And real estate is also emotional; sellers and buyers don’t always act rationally in the decisions they make about their home. Personally, I utilize three different valuation models when creating a market analysis for a prospective listing.

Keep in mind the mortgage market, not just the real estate market. Yes, the interest rates are high right now, and no one can accurately predict when they will be lower. But there are programs for first-time homebuyers (defined, by the way, as someone who hasn’t owned for three years), for first responders, teachers and others. And there are ways to buy down the interest rate for one or two years in hopes of refinancing when rates are lower.

solar design, super insulation, and other sustainable energy technologies. Also free and open to all is a Solar 101 Workshop from 11:45 to 1pm in an adjoining tent at which four experts in these topics will speak and answer questions. More info at www.ases.org/conference

Our ‘Styrofoam Corral’ Closes Forever on Aug. 31st

currently occupied by the Corral for other purposes. Our contract of sale requires us to close and remove it by August 31st.

This charming brick ranch is at 2670 Kearney Street in the sought-after Park Hill neighborhood, minutes from City Park, the Denver Zoo, and the Denver Museum of Natural History. Downtown Denver is a 15-minute drive away. The home is on a double lot with extensive flower and vegetable gardens. Both the bathroom and kitchen have been updated, the latter with new granite countertops and a Bosch dishwasher. New double-pane Anderson windows are throughout the house. Inside, one can find original hardwood floors across the main level. The main sewer line was replaced in 2009. The other kitchen appliances and the A/C unit are about five years old. Outdoor amenities include a newer storage shed, a children's play structure with swings and a slide (removed if you don't want it), and a large concrete patio. There's an attached two-car garage (unusual for this 1946 home) and a non-conforming third bedroom in the basement. Perfectly situated on a tranquil, wide street, the house is just a block from McAuliffe International Middle School. A new roof was installed two weeks ago. Listing agent Greg Kraft will hold an open house on Saturday, August 12th from 11 to 1. Take a narrated video tour, including drone footage, at www.ParkHillHome.site, then call Greg at 720-353-1922 for a private showing.

For over a decade and a half, Golden Real Estate has hosted a “Styrofoam Corral” behind its former location at 17695 S. Golden Road. Perhaps you or someone you know brought some of the 36,000 cubic yards of Expanded Polystyrene (its real name) that we have kept out of landfills.

Well, we sold that building last week to Joe & Stacy Fowler, proprietors of The Golden Hayride, and they need the space

$659,900

We had hoped to find another host for this valuable community amenity, but have had no luck so far. Call us if you can help!

Henceforth, you’ll have to take your Styrofoam to SustainAbility Recycling at 6240 W. 54th Ave. in Arvada. Their website is www.sustainability-recycling.com

Jim Smith

Broker/Owner, 303-525-1851

Jim@GoldenRealEstate.com

1214 Washington Ave., Golden 80401

Broker Associates:

JIM SWANSON, 303-929-2727

CHUCK BROWN, 303-885-7855

DAVID DLUGASCH, 303-908-4835

GREG KRAFT, 720-353-1922

AUSTIN POTTORFF, 970-281-9071

KATHY JONKE, 303-990-7428

‘Solar Village & Electric Vehicle Show’ This Friday

HOMELESSNESS

like, ‘No, I want to, this is my accountability.’”

Judge Kurtz believes the program is a creative alternative to punishing unhoused people.

“If these individuals would come into court, on whatever ticket that brought them into my doors, whether it be a trespass or disor-

derly conduct or whatever, normally we would impose some sort of nes,” Kurtz said. “ at doesn’t address the core issues that these individuals have.”

Instead, by connecting participants with resources, Kurtz believes the program works “to address (participant’s) core issues, mental health, substance abuse and poverty.”

“If we kind of ip it on its head and address those issues, then we’ll have much better outcomes,” Kurtz

said.

“ e whole point is for those experiencing homelessness to take One Small Step to a more stable life,” Alternate Municipal Court Judge Christopher Daly said to a defendant on July 31. “We’re not here for punishment; we’re trying to get your life back on track.”

During a meeting on July 31, one defendant expressed their desire for assistance from the program, asking Judge Daly to help them get out of their current situation.

“I don’t want to live this life no more,” the defendant said. ey were sentenced to a suspended ne for 12 months; if no further infractions are committed in that span, the ne will be waived.

“Sometimes it’s two steps forward, one step back,” Kurtz said. “One small step, because I don’t ever expect perfection, just progress. I hope that we’re able to provide the support that our defendants need to help them make progress in a positive way.”

Municipal Judge Kathryn Kurtz attending the graduation ceremony of one participant in the One Small Step program.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ARVADA MUNICIPAL COURT

Judge Kurtz attending the graduation ceremony of one participant in the One Small Step program.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ABBY COOK.

Arvada celebrates police department on 17th Annual National Night Out

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

is year was Arvada’s 17th celebrating National Night Out, and 14 events were planned throughout the city. e Arvada Historical Society observed the occasion with a reception at the McIlvoy House, while neighborhood celebrations could be found in garages, driveways and parks.

Arvada Police’s Public Information

O cer Dave Snelling said the night

was an important occasion for the community to become familiar with the police department

“All community members are the rst line in preventing crime,” Snelling said. “Getting to know your

neighbors is a great rst step. We had 14 planned community parties that were well-attended, in spite of the rain. Participants expressed how much they appreciate the Arvada Police Department and its o cers.”

Arvada Historical Society volunteers greet Arvada Police O cers on National Night Out.

A community celebration at 65th and Everett. PHOTOS COURTESY OF APD Residents

Sharon Davis, Kathleen Kennedy compete for Arvada City Council at-large seat

BY LILLIAN FUGLEI LFUGLEI@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

With fall just around the corner, election season is about to begin. In Arvada, that means several City Council positions are up for grabs, including an at-large seat. Kathleen Kennedy and Sharon Davis have both led for candidacy in the atlarge race.

e seat is currently held by Bob Fifer, who is term-limited out of the at-large seat. Fifer is running instead this year in District 4.

Davis said she is running as a way to give back to her community. Raised in a military family, Davis said she grew up learning the value of serving her community and making a positive impression.

“I have always lived a life of service,” Davis said. “So I’ve wanted to be on city council for a long time…I retired last May and I just said, ‘Here’s my chance to give back.’”

Kennedy said she realized she wanted to run as she saw new developments pop up around Arvada. Kennedy said she found herself wanting more opportunities for community input as the city approved new projects.

“How does that a ect homeowners who are trying to live in (Arvada) and have good lives?” Kennedy said. “So these are the things that really kind of enticed me to run for o ce.”

Background

Kennedy believes that her work as a real estate agent gives her a unique understanding of the issues facing Arvada. She also noted her leadership experience as a manager

at IBM, saying that both careers have helped prepare her for work in city council.

“(Work at IBM) I think, transferred into real estate for me,” Kennedy added. “ ose are the skills that I think were transferring me to really want to get into government, you know, a little bit more. So I think those things help.”

Davis highlighted her experience working in government; she spent 25 years working for the cities of Aurora, Federal Heights and the City and County of Denver, as well as Metro Water Recovery. She also emphasized her experience within Arvada — Davis previously served on several committees, including the Arvada Park Advisory Committee and Capital Improvement Plan

Committee.

While working with city council in various capacities, Davis feels she gained insight into how council works, as well as the areas of council that need improvement.

“So many people, you know, government has failed or they feel left behind,” Davis said. “ ose are the communities that I really am connecting with, to make sure that they don’t feel that way. I want everybody’s voice to be heard and being recognized, which is the beauty of the at large position.”

Housing development

Both candidates mentioned the need for a ordable housing in Arvada, though their views di er on how to address that need.

Davis spoke to the need for affordable housing, emphasizing the power housing has to build community. She mentioned the benets of being able to live near family, as well as working where you live.

“You even have (people) who are having their children and they don’t have that familiar infrastructure to help them with babysitting or (their children) having an illness,” Davis said.

Davis added that without a ordable housing, “we have kind of that loss of family.”

Kennedy also mentioned the need for a ordable housing but noted that development should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to ensure that new developments matched the density of existing neighborhoods.

“I do think that we can do a variety of things so (new housing) ts well in the neighborhoods because

we have to have housing for everybody,” Kennedy said. “We have gentri cation that is happening in these neighborhoods also, I think that’s a good thing. Some would say that that’s not a good thing, but we have to have viable neighborhoods, you know, for everybody.”

Other priorities

Kennedy said that addressing homelessness in Arvada was important to her. While organizations like e Rising work with homeless people in Arvada, Kennedy wants Arvada’s city council to take a more direct approach.

“I would really like to see the City of Arvada take the lead on that. I think that we have an opportunity to make a di erence because it’s not overwhelming yet. So let’s handle it right now,” Kennedy said, in reference to homelessness in the city. “We need truly a wraparound service for everybody here. I’d really like to see Arvada take the lead on that.”

Kennedy also emphasized building transitional housing for homeless people and nding a “new area to build, so that the homeless are away from Olde Town.”

Davis noted that public safety was a priority for her, saying that she did not believe in defunding police, but rather giving them more resources — such as social workers or mental health professionals — to ensure communities are getting the help they need. She also emphasized the importance of building strong communities to reduce crime.

“(Neighbors) see something happening at your home, or they see a car parked or circling the neighborhood, they’re going to be the ones that are going to be your rst line of defense,” Davis said. “I think building those healthy, strong community connections is very important for crime reduction.”

Closing statements

Davis added that she’d like to use the at-large position to create change in a community she cares for.

“I love Arvada, I love the people and I’m ready to a ect change,” Davis said. “And to a ect change, you have to have a seat at the table, and I’m the people’s voice at the table.”

Kennedy said she’d like to be a moderating presence on council.

“I think we need that moderating voice, and I’m one of those moderating voices. I’d like to be that moderating voice of city council to help that process,” Kennedy said.

Arvada City Council candidates Kathleen Kennedy (left) and Sharon Davis (right). COURTESY PHOTOS

Clive Cussler’s classic-car legacy lives on

Arvada museum showcases collection amassed by bestselling author

BY LILLIAN FUGLEI LFUGLEI@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Tucked away behind construction on Indiana Street is a collection of over 100 cars, some over 100 years old. e collector of these cars is none other than Clive Cussler.

Cussler was a best-selling author with over six dozen books, primarily writing adventure and thriller stories. ough Cussler passed away in 2020, his legacy lives on, partially through his museum.

ough Cussler began collecting cars in the 1970s, it wasn’t until 2005 that the museum opened.

“My mother and I approached him about opening it up to the public because he had over 100 cars, and they’re so fascinating,” Amie Knutson, Cussler’s granddaughter, said. “We thought it’d be neat to open up to the public and let people come see them.”

Knutson added that she wants to keep her grandfather’s legacy going.

“He passed away three years ago,” she said. “It’s just neat talking to all the people that are huge fans of his and just showing people these awe-

some cars that you don’t really see every day. It’s wonderful.”

Keith Lowden, the museum’s

mechanic, has been working on the cars since the 1980s. Lowden helped Cussler to pick out cars and

IF YOU GO

Address: 14959 W. 69th Avenue, Arvada, CO 80007

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and the first Saturday of each month seasonally from May through September

restore them and has been helping with upkeep and repairs ever since.

“I would go on trips with him to car auctions,” Lowden said. “I checked (cars) over and stu before he would decide to bid on them. So that was a lot of fun. ose times were really great.”

With over 100 cars, the museum can only display around 60 at a time. Each car has a small sign detailing the model and history of the vehicle, while many cars are displayed with a copy of one of Cussler’s books. Many of Cussler’s books feature a car in his collection, with a photo of him in the car on

“Opening this up as a museum so people can come in, we get a lot of his fans in here,” Lowden said. “It’s like they’re movie stars to them or something where they want to come and see the car. ey can’t see the character. e stories are just kind of made up. But the cars exist.”

Colorado clinics improving mental and behavioral health standards

BY ERIC GALATAS PUBLIC NEWS SERVICE

A state-federal partnership is helping safety-net mental health centers in Colorado deepen the services they provide, which is improving access and outcomes for people struggling with mental illness.

Sara Reid, grants and program evaluation manager for Mental Health Partners, said because getting to appointments across town can be a signi cant barrier, especially for people in crisis, her team now has seven outreach workers embedded where people who need help already are.

“Places like food pantries and other types of community partners,” Reid explained. “So that the people who are there getting other types of services don’t have to then go somewhere else to try to get connected with behavioral health care.”

Colorado currently has seven Certi ed Community Behavioral Health Clinics. Clinics getting federal funds are required to serve anyone who asks for mental health or substance abuse care, regardless of their ability to pay, place of residence, or age, including developmentally appro-

priate care for children and youth.

Frank Cornelia, deputy executive director of the Colorado Behavioral Health Care Council, said new national standards set by the program are key for addressing a persistent opioid addiction crisis. Certi ed clinics are required to get people into care quickly, provide crisis services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and o er the full array of behavioral health services so people who need care don’t have to piece it together themselves.

“Not just mental health services, but a full complement of community-based substance-use disorder services,” Cornelia outlined. “We know that people deal with both conditions at the same time, and we need to treat both conditions at the same time. And we get better outcomes when we do that.”

Certi ed clinics also help patients navigate the intersections between behavioral and physical health care, social services and other programs. Reid noted stable housing is often a precursor to success in other areas of life, and her team has seen better results for most clients within six months of entering care.

“Nearly all of the clients we work

with are seeing improvement in stable housing,” Reid reported. “We’re able to help people move o of the streets and nd housing, and then that helps them stay engaged in other types of care and services,

it helps them build success in their own lives.”

is Public News Service story via e Associated Press’ Storyshare, of which Colorado Community Media is a member.

Clive Cussler’s collection of over 100 cars is on display in Arvada.

PHOTO BY LILLIAN FUGLEI

EPA again blocks air pollution permit for Suncor

Federal agency bars state from giving green light

BY MICHAEL BOOTH THE COLORADO SUN

e EPA’s Denver regional o ce is once again blocking a renewed state air pollution permit for the Suncor re nery in Commerce City, agreeing to objections from environmental groups that Colorado should crack down harder on carbon monoxide dangers and past plant modi cations.

Suncor has had numerous air and water pollution violations in recent years, and the regional Environmental Protection Agency had its own objections to Suncor permit renewals last year, ordering the state to make changes. After Colorado issued revisions, neighbors and environmental groups had the chance to make new objections.

While Suncor’s Plant 2 will be allowed to continue producing petroleum products for Colorado and the region, state air pollution o cials must now “resolve EPA’s objections” based on the environmental groups’ two petitions “before issuing a revised permit.”

“Improving air quality for the underserved communities a ected by harmful air emissions from the Suncor re nery is a shared priority for EPA and CDPHE,” said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. Becker is the former Democratic Speaker of the House for Colorado, and has placed an emphasis on carrying out environmental justice initiatives while at the EPA.

“EPA will continue to work with Colorado to secure the re nery’s compliance with laws and regu-

lations and protect the health of nearby residents,” Becker said.

Representatives of the environmental groups welcomed the new scrutiny on Suncor, which has been releasing excessive levels of dangerous materials like benzene, PFAS “forever chemicals,” sulfur dioxide and more into the air and water of south Adams County and north Denver. ey have demanded intensi ed state scrutiny of the re nery as it seeks permit renewals, and some have called for the outright closure of the sprawling plant, the only petroleum re nery in Colorado.

“We’re grateful the EPA is taking the concerns of community and

community-based organizations seriously, but nes aren’t working with these people,” said Ean Tafoya, director of the nonpro t Colorado GreenLatinos, one of the petitioners. “We’ve said for a very long time Suncor continues to be out of compliance, and enforcement isn’t enough, they just keep paying to play. It’s time for us to begin planning the closure of Suncor.”

“We are happy that the EPA took an important step toward holding Suncor accountable for its toxic air pollution,” said Ian Coghill, senior attorney with Earthjustice. “For too long, impacted communities have su ered at the hands of the re nery and the state has failed to hold it accountable. is must result in the state taking a meaningful look at Suncor’s permitting and nally reining in its pollution.”

Coloradans managed while the entire re nery was shut down for repairs early in 2023 after a re, Tafoya said. “ e local economy survived. We’re grateful we have these tools and the EPA appears to be listening,” he said.

e EPA’s demands in e ect reset the clock on assessing Suncor’s expired permit, which has been under scrutiny for years. Depending on how much the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment rewrites the Plant 2 permit, the EPA said, “the revisions may involve additional public notice and comment.” e EPA would have 45 days to review how the state handled EPA objections, then the public would have another 60day petition period to make new

objections.

Suncor rst sought to renew the Plant 2 permit in 2010. e state allows some industries to keep operating under expired permits, and says it enforces the requirements of the old permit in the meantime.

e EPA’s order directs Colorado o cials to “evaluate whether additional operational requirements are needed to assure compliance with carbon monoxide and opacity limits at the plant’s uid catalytic cracking unit. It also directs CDPHE to determine whether previous plant modi cations were analyzed properly.”

State air pollution o cials said they were “closely reviewing” the EPA’s decision to grant parts of the petitions to the permit. “ e division will decide how to proceed after its review of the EPA’s decision and documentation,” said a spokesperson for the Air Pollution Control Division.

e EPA’s 99-page summary of its partial agreements with the petitioners appears to lean toward new standards for Suncor, Tafoya said. Environmental groups want the state to require technology upgrades at Suncor that would prevent leaks, including demands to use the “best available technology.”

Given months of news about benzene, sulfur dioxide and other hazardous material releases, Tafoya said, “GreenLatinos wants to have a meeting with the state about cumulative violations.”

Under the U.S. Clean Air Act, the EPA sets regulations on air pollution limits, and state o cials carry out the permitting, inspection and enforcement on the companies receiving permits.

e EPA announcement said “one petition was led by Earthjustice on behalf of the Elyria and Swansea Neighborhood Association, Cultivando, Colorado Latino Forum, GreenLatinos, Center for Biological Diversity and Sierra Club. e second petition was led by 350 Colorado.” e 350 Colorado petition was denied, the EPA said, but many of the objections in the petition led by Earthjustice were validated.

“EPA is also supporting community-based air monitoring and state-led e orts to investigate and address noncompliance issues associated with air emissions from the Suncor plants,” the EPA o ce said.

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

Suncor Energy’s Commerce City plant is seen Feb. 17.

PHOTO BY OLIVIA SUN, THE COLORADO SUN VIA REPORT FOR AMERICA

Je erson County Public Library Board approves purchase of land for Candelas library

steps that will create a library for the

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A new Je erson County Public Library Branch is possibly on the horizon for residents of Candelas. On July 20, JCPL’s board unanimously voted to sign a purchase and sale agreement for $3.6 million for a 9.4acre site in northwest Arvada.

e site is located between Wilkerson Court, 92nd Avenue and Candelas Parkway. e project is included in JCPL’s 5-year Capital Improvement Plan and is therefore fully funded.

e library is slated for completion in late 2025 or early 2026.

e land is being sold to JCPL by the Je ery L. Nading Trust. Before the deal closes, JCPL will perform due diligence at the site and take soil samples and environmental studies to ensure the property will be a good t for the library.

“Once our due diligence steps are complete, we will continue our engagement e orts to hear from the community about their speci c desires for library services for the future on this site,” JCPL Executive Director Donna Walker said.   JCPL’s spokesperson said the library will be roughly 30,000 square feet upon completion. e property search for a library site in west Arvada began in July 2022.

At the July 20 meeting, board members discussed west Arvada as

convenient library services,” Walker said.

Currently, JCPL operates a holds locker in Candelas, where people can order and return materials locally using the library’s website. e proposed library in Candelas would become the 13th in the JCPL system, including the Express Library in west Arvada.

“A new library in northwest Arvada will provide greater access to information and opportunities to help JCPL ful ll its mission to the residents in this area and Je erson County as a whole,” Kim Johnson, the library board chair said. “ is project would not be possible without the trust shown by the citizens of Je erson County in passing the 2015 mill levy.”

Arvada Mayor Marc Williams — a former JCPL board member — voiced his support for the new library.

“We are thrilled by the decision of the Library Board to acquire land in northwest Arvada for the next JCPL library,” Williams said. “Libraries are an important component of what makes great communities for our very youngest pre-readers to our young at heart senior citizens. Our libraries are a hub of activity and learning opportunities; plus, nothing beats a good book.”

Je erson County Commissioner Tracy Kraft- arp also praised the decision to build a library in northwest Arvada.

Screenshot of proposed site for west Arvada Je erson County Public Library branch. JCPL purchased the 9-acre plot of land for $3.6 million.

COURTESY JCPL

9.4 acres at Candelas

Point to be purchased for $3.6 million pending final steps

New cinematic PSA for volunteer fire service has a Colorado connection

BY JO DAVIS JDAVIS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e lm “Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat” became available on video on demand on July 27, and the lm has a Colorado connection. e lmmakers hope to bring more awareness and volunteers to the re service across the country, including to Je erson County re districts.

“Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat” is a documentary about the 700,000 volunteer re ghters across the U.S. Directors Gary Matoso and Cameron Zohoori said that they knew little about the re service when they started the lm.

“When we originally got brought onto the project, we didn’t know very much about the volunteer re service,” Matoso said.  “It was Peter Yoakum, our executive producer, who had this idea to make a lm to raise awareness, to let people just tell the story of the volunteer re service.”

Matoso explained that the original idea for the lm was to choose three re departments, three stories and deep dive into them. However, when they put out a call to the volunteer re departments across the country, the directors got a bit of a surprise.

“We just put out some casting calls and calls for via di erent re department resources to see if people had stories or might want to participate in the lm,” Matoso said. “We got ooded with submissions on that. We had, like 800 submissions come through within a couple of weeks.”

Some submissions even came from the area.

“We did have a couple of Denver submissions and Colorado submissions, for sure,” Matoso said. e directors then discussed a submission that almost made the

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lm but had to be cut.

“ ere was a small-town department that was in the mountains in Colorado,” co-director Zohoori said. “It has one major highway that goes through. ey’re just constantly responding to accidents on the road.”

Golden’s submission was one that was cut, but the department couldn’t con rm anything involving the submission.

According to Capt. Will Moorhead, the department was probably submitted by a former re chief.

“Our chief has changed since I think since they started shooting the lm,” Moorhead said. “And we just had a few people change over the last year and a half.”

at turnover is part of a nationwide slump in volunteerism.

“Volunteerism is dropping o all over the country,” Moorhead said. “... ere’s absolutely a need.

ere’s a need to capture and to engage people who have an interest, in our case, an interest in technical rescue.”

Moorhead said that technical rescue is part of what makes Golden Fire a “special case” when it comes to red departments. e department is a “combination department,” which is a combination of volunteer and paid re ghters and sta . e terrain is also di erent than most departments.

Moorhead described the department’s jurisdiction as “on the edge of a metropolitan area,” encom-

passing some urban elements, the suburbs, rural areas, rivers and the mountains.

e eclectic mix of terrain a ects the work of both volunteer and paid re ghters.

Moorhead said that they get regular calls for re and rescue, but the region that is Clear Creek Canyon adds a few more duties.

“It creates technical rescue challenge,” he said, explaining how Golden is easy to access for the

metro population as well, so the department also does a lot to keep people safe as they visit the area.

“[Clear Creek Canyon] is easy access for all the people from the metro area who want to go hike, bike, rock climb, paraglide, hang-glide, whitewater rafting, kayaking, that sort of stu ,” he said.  “ en a whole bunch of people who just go and recreate

“Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat” is streaming now. It’s a documentary and a call for volunteers for your local volunteer fire service. PHOTOS COURTESY CINEMATIC RED PR

The goal of the film is to bring in candidates for volunteer fire departments across the country. Much of the advertising for the film includes a “help wanted” theme for this reason.

you know? ey go have picnics by the creek.”

ese visitors get hurt and that’s when the Golden re department comes in.

“Our people are amazing,” he said. “ e swift water rescue technicians do really good work on swift water. We have people who do amazing work when a climber falls, or a climber has an accident. Or somebody just falls hiking, a get snakebite or with an injured mountain biker.”

Moorhead said that both paid and volunteer re ghters are trained and deployed in every rescue situation.

“ ere’s an interesting blend of things that Golden is responsible for,” he said. “Our volunteer reghters and our paid re ghters work together to address not just normal re suppression, vehicle accidents, medical calls, but then you have this whole technical rescue side. And it’s pretty neat. It’s truly a unique combination of things.”

Moorhead was called “the voice of the volunteer membership,” in the 2022 Golden Fire Department Year in Review. He has worked as a volunteer re ghter since he was 17, culminating for a total of 31 years.

“I was driving the engines at 17, 18. Who thought that was a good idea?” he said.

Moorhead has worked all across the country in a total of seven departments as a volunteer.

He said this is in addition to the regular duties of the re service.

e directors of the documentary explained that choosing stories was very hard, but ultimately, they hoped what they chose t the story of re service in the best way possible.

“I think we really took a showdon’t-tell approach,” Matoso said. “So, we didn’t want just a bunch of talking heads, telling you about the volunteer re service. It was really more just diving into people’s stories, letting the visuals and the people tell the story, essentially.”

e stories in the documentary follow recruits going through re training, and re ghters from departments that span both coasts of the U.S. ere are also stories about Emergency Medical Technicians.

One of them is Barbara, who went into her local re department to volunteer as a receptionist or clerk. Barbara tells the story of the captain handing her a book and telling her that they need an EMT instead. Barbara is well past middle age, but she explains in the lm that her age has helped, especially in her community where

there is a large senior citizen population.

Some of the stories are about more than the re service. ey showcase the various other needs that these departments have. e directors also said this was something they wanted the audience to get from the lm.

“I think the people that see the lm might consider volunteering,” Matoso said. “ ese re departments need photographers. ey need cooks. ey need accountants and PR people. So there are lots of ways you can contribute to these re departments.”

Ultimately, the lm is designed to call attention to local volunteer re services.

e lmmakers hope that people see the movie and volunteer. ey also want to strengthen the community spirit within some people who live in a community serviced by a volunteer re service.

“I think for everyone who looks into the re service and can step up in that way. It’s great,” Zohoori

said.  “ at’s the goal of the lm. But even for those who don’t, I

hope that they still take away this bigger picture sense of how it is that communities across our country take care of themselves and take care of each other.”

Je co lists 18 Fire Districts, many of which are a hybrid of volunteer and paid re ghters. e Golden Fire Department has 69 re ghters and two civilians. More than 50 of them are volunteers, including Moorhead. e volunteer membership has 12 o cers and 40 members listed in the department’s 2022 Year in Review.

Golden and other departments throughout Je erson County and in Colorado are in need of volunteers. e Golden Fire Department has information about training, duties and other information for volunteers.

e documentary is an “impact lm,” meaning it is meant to not only tell a story but to also call the audience into action.

“It’s always been an impact lm from the beginning,” said Matoso. “To raise awareness around volunteer re service.”

He went on to say that volunteering is so much more than people expect. e lm shows that as well.

“Volunteers, very little of what they do is actually ghting res. ey’re doing rescue and hazardous materials,” Matoso added.

“Like handling all kinds of other problem-solving services for their communities. So those were stories that we wanted to get out there.”

To stream “Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat,” check out the lm’s website.

You can nd more about the Golden Fire Department on its website.

To get more information on the Foothills Fire & Rescue, check out the volunteer page.

e Je erson County list of re districts is available on the county re information webpage.

Zachary Fergusson-Williams (center of the photo) works in biotech and volunteers for the Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad. His story is featured in the documentary “Odd Hours, No Pay, Cool Hat.”

The problem that just won’t go away

When I read the Salt Lake Tribune editorial on July 2, my heart sank. A Utah man with severe mental illness had died in a poorly regulated care home, with a mere $8,000 ne levied against the managers.

e editorial was erce: “It doesn’t seem to matter how horrible the care … how many of these residents live in lth and squalor … the responsible authorities apparently make little to no e ort to whip the homes into shape or, failing that, shut them down.”

In 1976, my disabled brother, Mike Trimble, died in just such a care home in Denver. I’ve spent a decade researching his life and death for my book, “ e Mike File,” and I know well the details and politics of his death.

Mike left home after turning 14 when his diagnosis — “paranoid schizophrenia, capable of violence” — shattered our family. A court committed him to the Colorado State Hospital in 1957. He never lived at home again.

When mental hospitals emptied their wards a decade later, Mike was mainstreamed back to Denver. Rejoining our family did not go well. Angry and resentful, Mike’s visits triggered emotional chaos. He soon cut o all contact.

In 1976, Mike died during a seizure, alone in his boarding home

WRITERS ON THE RANGE

Stephen Trimble

and undiscovered for three days. e Denver media used his solitary death to expose the “ratholes” that warehoused people with mental illness. Our mother found out about the loss of her 33-year-old son from the front page of the Denver Post.

e owner of Mike’s ironically named “Carefree Guest Home” described his death as a “slip up.” e sta member who should have checked on Mike was “snowed under.” Two other residents had died unnoticed in previous months.

In the days following Mike’s death, the director of the Colorado Commission on the Disabled demanded action. “I’m …thinking …of the other 85 residents there,” he said. “How many of them were not seen over the weekend but did not die?”

O cials issued “a severe reprimand.” Dr. Paul Kuhn, director of Denver’s Personal Health Service, said that Carefree had made “signi cant improvements,” but he mentioned only one: “Anyone not in the breakfast line is sought out and checked.”

Kuhn gave Carefree a break because of poor funding that left the guest home perpetually under-

sta ed. “ is is more than a Denver problem,” he said. “It’s a statewide problem. It’s a great societal problem.”

Reprimand issued, case closed, but hardly progress.

In 2002, e New York Times ran a Pulitzer Prize-winning series that included the story of Randolph Maddix, living in a private home for the mentally ill in Brooklyn. Maddix died during a seizure and wasn’t found for many hours. “His back, curled and sti with rigor mortis, had to be broken to t him into a body bag.”

In 2006, the Milwaukee JournalSentinel ran a series on the horrors of board-and-care homes, including the tale of a resident who died and wasn’t found for three days. ese stories of outrageous neglect keep recurring, always about people overwhelmed by their mental disorders and neglected by their caregivers.

Why does Dr. Kuhn’s “great societal problem” persist?

As we steadily eliminated more than 500,000 beds in state psychiatric hospitals starting in the mid1950s, according to a study by the American Psychiatric Association, the number of people with severe mental illness was growing with the U.S. population. Stigma and shame often silenced their families. E ective treatment disappeared into the

fog of competing agencies, with no coordinated plan for people with chronic mental illness. en add today’s epidemic of homelessness and prisons crammed with people who need psychiatric treatment more than incarceration. While researching my book, I spoke with a Colorado psychologist who summed up our failure to care for our mothers and fathers, our brothers and sisters, our children and friends: “ e mentally ill don’t have a strong lobby.”

e recent Tribune editorial proposes incentives for decently run care homes and appropriate punishments for neglect. But what we really need is a transformative system of care for the vulnerable and voiceless, and housing for those without homes. We know what to do. So far, we have chosen not to act.

is problem remains with us, just as it did in 1976 when I lost my brother. Please don’t let us read these same plaintive stories and unanswered calls for action when another 50 years have passed.

Utah writer Stephen Trimble is a contributor to Writers on the Range, writersontherange.org, an independent nonpro t dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West. His latest book is “ e Mike File: A Story of Grief and Hope.”

Get excited about heirloom tomatoes

The essence of summer for me is a freshly picked tomato, and if you are a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) member or visit farmer’s markets, I am sure you love the rainbow of colors that come from heirloom tomatoes. At the Denver Botanic Gardens Chat eld Farms’ CSA, we get super excited about new nds, old classics and interesting adapted heirlooms that we can add to our o erings. Of course, tomato season starts well before the summer — deep in the winter, when the snow

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Josie Hart

is falling, tomato growers pursue seed catalogues with all sorts of tomato varieties. Now, with mid-summer approaching, we enthusiastically wait for the rst fruits of the vine.

I would like to share three varieties we are most excited about for this season. ese varieties are heirloom or more accurately, ‘open pollinated’ tomatoes, which means a saved seed from the fruit will have very similar characteristics as the original plant.

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Carbon ese black heirloom tomatoes are heavy feeders and have a high tolerance for drought and hot growing conditions. Carbon tomatoes are open pollinated, which means they use natural pollinators such as bumblebees, bees, birds and, sometimes, the wind — all natual elements of the garden.

e carbon tomato is a large, rm, meaty tomato. Its esh is deep red with light to dark purple shoulders. It has a vibrant, sweet, smokey avor with the texture of a beefsteak.

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ese fruits are marketed as crack resistant, but according to several growers, they tend to split if watering is not regular.

Cherokee green is tomato is a true green when ripe which can cause confusion. We see many people pick up green tomatoes, then set them down because they think they are not ready. However, if you know what to look for in ripeness, then you are blessed

SEE HART, P13

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The Barlow Band takes to Arvada Center

Ask any performer and they’ll tell you there’s something di erent about performing on a “home stage” — the stages they’ve seen heroes and peers perform on countless times in their life.

For  e Barlow, the Arvada Center’s outdoor amphitheater one of those stages. So, getting the chance to open for alt-rocker Lucero at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 11 is a big deal for the band.

e Barlow — Shea Boynton on vocals, guitar and banjo, Troy Scoope on bass, Ben Richter on drums and Brad Johnson on guitar and vocals — have been a group since 2017 and draw inspiration from classic and contemporary country artists like Steel Woods, Cody Jinks, the Randy Rogers Band and Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson.

We chatted with Boynton about the group’s history, performing at the Arvada Center and more:

Interview edited for brevity and clarity.

Tell me about the background of e Barlow.

Most of us have known each other since high school (Arvada

HART

with the sweetest avor (in my opinion) of all the tomatoes. Ripeness is indicated by a slight yelloworange hue on the blossom side of the fruit. is wonderful heirloom has an excellent, complex avor with a gorgeous color, which makes it one of our most anticipated tomatoes for this season based on being a favorite from last year. Each tomato can be between six ounces and one pound. Cherokee green is a large, beautiful beefsteak selected by Craig LeHoullie who has trialed more than 1,200 tomato varieties and has several helpful books on home gardening. is tomato comes from the same gene selections at the Cherokee purple, which

COMING ATTRACTIONS

Senior High) and played in di erent bands together at one point in time or another. We started e Barlow as a casual thing — we were all itching to play and needed a creative outlet.

lives here. We couldn’t be prouder to play country music from a place that’s less conventional than others.

What does it mean to be playing at the Arvada Center and opening for Lucero?

at https://arvadacenter.org/events/ lucero.

Mountains of fun at 4th ConiferFest

What better way is there to appreciate late summer in Colorado than by getting a little elevation and attending the Rotary Club of Conifer’s 4th annual ConiferFest?

Clarke Reader

e band came together naturally as we were already buddies. e rst couple years were us getting our foothold musically and playing around Denver/Colorado. Touring escalated after we released “Horseshoe Lounge” in Feb. of 2021 and we’ve been full steam since.

What’s it like being part of the Denver music scene?

Denver and Colorado are small, tight knit scenes. It’s always reasonable to assume we’ll run in to folks we know within production, promotion or other artists when we’re playing inside state lines.

We proudly wave the #coloradocountry ag and always tell folks we’re from Arvada. is is where we were raised, where we’re raising our children, and have built our

We’ve all driven by the Arvada Center a million times, so when the opportunity came up to play there we were elated. It’s home. Any chance to play among our friends and family always feel like a celebration. I’ve been listening to Lucero for more than 20 years, getting to share a stage with them is a huge privilege.

We pride ourselves on touching every genre within our lane that we can. As musicians, we make memories for folks and we aim to do our job each night.

Find more information at www. thebarlowband.com/ and get tickets

Held from 11 a.m. until about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 12, at the open space adjacent to Our Lady of the Pines Church, 9444 EagleCli Drive in Conifer, the fundraiser features live music from Who’s omas, Captain Quirk, Magoo the Band and Sam Gyllenhall Band. Attendees will be able to enjoy various beverage options (including margaritas), food trucks and more.

All you need to know can be

is known for bold, acidic avors.

Moskovich

A true classic in every tomato garden, this early, small, red tomato makes for a great slicer. ese perfect little red globes are cold-tolerant, which means they will be one of the rst to start to ripen. Moskovich can put on growth while the early May conditions are still too cold for many big fruit tomatoes. It will be one of the last to keep producing because of its hardiness, making it a true work-horse winner for production. e avor is very balanced — not too acidic and not too sweet, so it also works for canning, if that’s your thing. Happy growing (and eating)!

Josie Hart is the associate director of farm program for the Denver Botanic Gardens.

Heirloom tomatoes.

SEE READER, P19

BY CORINNE WESTEMAN CWESTEMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

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

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

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

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

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

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

Items and resources aplenty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unique programs, events

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

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

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

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

Summertime outdoor concert series are

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

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

FILE PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN

a seed library at one of its

EVERYBODY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Preserving the ‘third place’

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

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

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

Libraries as “third places” are increasingly important for young

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FILE PHOTO BY SARA HERTWIG

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

Arapahoe Libraries hosts

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

Thu 8/17

Love, DEAN @ 7pm Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St, Denver

Lab Thursdays with FrostTop @ 8pm Larimer Lounge, 2721 Larimer St, Denver

Fri 8/18

Mackenzie Rae & Buckshot Moon | Roxy on Broadway @ 6pm

Broadway Roxy, 554 S Broadway, Denver

Hether @ 8pm Mission Ballroom, 4242 Wynkoop St,, Den‐ver

Nativity In Black @ 9pm Hi-Dive, 7 S Broadway, Denver

Sat 8/19

Uncorked Wine Fest @ 5pm / $40

439 S Upham St, 439 South Upham Street, Lakewood. chris@milehighwine andspirits.com, 303-936-0272

Truncate @ 9pm 1134 Broadway, 1134 N Broadway, Denver

Sun 8/20

Denver Rocks Run 5K/10K @ 8am City Park, Denver. jamie.smith@stack sports.com

Jess Williamson @ 7pm

Globe Hall, 4483 Lo‐gan St, Denver

Mon 8/21

Music @ 6pm Old Capitol Grill & Smokehouse, 1122 Washington Ave, Golden Kadabra @ 8pm Hi-Dive, 7 S Broadway, Denver

Green Druid @ 8pm Hi-Dive, 7 S Broadway, Denver

Wed 8/23

Live Music on Tap - Asha Blaine @ 5:30pm / Free Colorado Tap House, 14982 West 69th Av‐enue, Arvada. info@coloradotap house.com, 720-826-8326

Film On The Rocks: Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi @ 7pm Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 West Alameda Parkway, Morrison

DJ Rockstar Aaron: Forbidden

Bingo Mondays - Swanky's @ 7pm

28th Annual Arvada Commu‐

nity Garden Open House @ 11am

Arvada Community Garden, 9195 West 57th Avenue, Arvada. billor chard@juno.con, 303-929-5788

Ardy Party w/ Ardalan, Lubelski @ 4pm X Denver, 3100 Inca St, Denver

Parade Of Bad Guys @ 2pm Goosetown Station, 514 9th St, Golden

The Swell Season w/ Lizzie Weber @ 7pm Levitt Pavilion Denver, 1380 W Florida Ave, Denver

Zach Nugent Music: JG3 @ 9pm So Many Roads Brewery, 918 W 1st Ave, Denver

Swanky's Vittles and Libations, 1938 Blake St, Denver Extreme @ 8pm Ogden Theatre, 935 E. Colfax Ave., Denver

Tue 8/22

James Ivy @ 7pm Larimer Lounge, 2721 Larimer St, Denver

Session Americana @ 7:15pm Goosetown Tavern, 3242 East Colfax Av‐enue, Denver

Pictoria Vark @ 7pm Hi-Dive, 7 S Broad‐way, Denver

EagleWing @ 8pm Larimer Lounge, 2721 Larimer St, Denver

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Shawn Nelson

Building ‘the world’s most beautiful ant farm’

Ant Life prompts human pondering in Denver

BY CHRISTY STEADMAN CSTEADMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

While Jacob Lemanski was circling the globe on his bicycle, the only thing he missed was his ant farm. It was one of the few possessions he’d kept before setting out on his adventure. He built it himself, using scrap sheets of plastic and he set a dim light behind it to illuminate the ant tunnels.

Lemanski’s cycling adventure entailed circling the world twice — a feat that took him 999 days, almost three years. Nearly all of his time was solitary, aside from the friendly waves and saying a casual hello to the thousands of people along his route, which consisted of traversing six continents.

During the long stretches of pedaling, Lemanski had a lot of time to re ect. He often thought about his ant farm. So, when he returned home, Lemanski, who has a background in mechanical and aerospace engineering, set out to build the “world’s most beautiful ant farm.”

Lemanski created a living habitat with a colorful backdrop of nebulae and stars that reacts to the colorchanging lights built within the frame.

Once built, Lemanski spent many hours looking at it — observing the ants as they tunneled and watching the roots of various plants as they grew in the soil.

Watching the ant farm became meditation for him.

“Every time I looked, it was di erent, and I was mesmerized,” Lemanski said. “Watching it become something is the fun of it.”

Lemanski then built a second ant farm, then a third. Eventually, it became a collection of eight. Lemans-

ki got a patent on them, and in June last year, opened a space to publicly display them at 2150 Market St. in downtown Denver.

Today, he has 11 illuminated ant farms for everyone to enjoy. Filling a couple of the walls inside the larger Ant Life venue, Lemanski calls the display “the Ant Space.” Each of these framed ant farms is unique, and will be di erent with every visit. It’s living wall art, Lemanski said.

“It only exists in the present because it’s constantly changing,” he added.

Additional original artwork

Wall art called Space Screens cover the walls at Jacob Lemanski’s Ant Life in Denver.

Jacob Lemanski stands with his illuminated ant farms in his Ant Life space on Market Street in downtown Denver. PHOTOS BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

SEE ART FARM, P19

ANT FARM

displayed inside Ant Life is what Lemanski calls Space Screens. ese are close-up images – some are photographs of plants and other objects that Lemanski took on his cycling adventure – on dyed velvet that are hung from a light bar to create a dynamic, psychedelic wall hanging. He o ers Ant Life guests a pair of 3D glasses to enhance the viewing experience.

“Whenever I am at Ant Life, I feel a sense of peace staring into the art as the lights pulsate colors and shift my perception of what I see,” said Kelsey Armeni, who visits Ant Life on a regular basis. “I know

READER

found at https://coniferfest.com/.

Celebrate 15 years of CinemaQ Film Festival

Sharing the stories of the LGBTQIA+ community has rarely been as crucial as it is right now, with the community’s rights under constant assault. is makes the annual Denver Film CinemaQ Film Festival not

that in the midst of an event, I can take a break from socializing to go and stare and connect back to my breath and the simplicity of ants digging through the cosmos.”

Lemanski originally opened Ant Life as an art gallery — everything in it is available for purchase — but the space soon found its calling as an events venue.

Since its opening, Lemanski has hosted a variety of corporate and private events there — from birthdays and weddings to gaming and movie nights. e Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies even hosted one of its events at Ant Life when the association was in Denver in June for its Psychedelic Science conference. And about once a month, Ant Life hosts the popup market, Magic

just important, but worth celebrating.

It’s the festival’s 15th year and it is bigger than ever, with some truly incredible lms getting screened over its run at the Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave. in Denver, from ursday, Aug. 10 through Sunday, Aug. 13. Some of the highlights include “Chasing Chasing Amy,” “Bottoms,” “Our Son” and “Problemista.”

As is always the case with Denver Film, there will be great panels with lmmakers and other creatives. Get tickets, passes and all the details at www.denver lm.org.

Makers Market.

“ is venue has been the biggest blessing to the event promoters here in Denver,” said Anthony Sabia, founder of Shroomski Magazine, who hosts events at Ant Life. “It’s designed with the intention to give you something fascinating to look at. e decorating has already been done, and any guest that comes in there is practically left speechless.”

Lemanski enjoys the variety of events that take place at Ant Life. And he happily schedules free, private tours of the space for anyone who wants to see it. He’ll carry on friendly conversations about the art and ask visitors what they see in it.

And “everyone sees something di erent,” Lemanski said.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — The Strokes at Red Rocks

e Strokes are one of the most important bands of this century, and their debut album, “Is is It” radically reshaped the direction of indie and alternative rock. I’ve pretty much loved all the group’s albums in their own way, and even if they don’t have the critical success they used to, they’re still legends that demand attention.

e group doesn’t tour often and so the fact that they’re playing Red Rocks, 18300 W. Alameda Parkway

in Morrison, at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 14, is a massive deal. Despite the fact they’ve been around for 20 years, they’ve never played the mythical venue before, so this is going to be a special evening. ey’ll be joined by alt-rock vocalist Weyes Blood as the opener.  Purchase tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.

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

Jacob Lemanski inside his space called Ant Life in downtown Denver.

PHOTO BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

On Sept. 12, 2001, legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma was scheduled to perform Antonín Dvo ák’s Cello Concerto with the Colorado Symphony. e day prior to the performance, the United States was shaken by the events of 9/11, one of the most tragic losses of life in American history.

Colorado Symphony cellist, Margaret Hoeppner, vividly remembers Ma’s performance that night. Instead of playing the planned Dvo ák piece, Yo-Yo Ma decided to play Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto, a composition written in

FREEDOM. TO BE YOU.

the Colorado Symphony’s longest tenured member with 62 seasons under her belt, the performance after 9/11 is Hoeppner’s most powerful, moving memory as a part of the orchestra.

“Ma’s performance brought the audience and the orchestra a sense of solace and some comfort during that terribly di cult time. For me it was a sense that life will go on and that we will recover from this horrible tragedy,” said Hoeppner.

“Because of the beauty of his performance, it gave us all hope. It gave me hope that we would survive and that this is something we would recover from.”

For the 2023-2024 Centennial Season of the Colorado Symphony, Yo-Yo Ma will return to Denver to play Elgar’s Cello Concerto, the same piece that brought comfort to concert-goers in the wake of 9/11. Ma will perform along with

on May 5 at Boettcher Concert Hall at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. is is one of more than 150 performances o ered by the Colorado Symphony throughout the season.

e Colorado Symphony is celebrating 100 years of symphonic music in Colorado. e 2023-2024 season is highlighted by a trio of must-see performances featuring Audra McDonald, Renée Fleming and, of course, the legendary Yo-Yo Ma. Led by Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian, Colorado Symphony patrons will be treated to a schedule teeming with incredible programming, renowned guest artists and revered symphonic works all season long. To kick o the Centennial Season, the Colorado Symphony will perform Beethoven’s Fifth along with several other works on Sept. 15-17.

“ is centennial season will highlight the best of the Colorado Symphony,” said Oundjian. “We’re doing some really huge projects. We will keep doing programs that I think will engage people enormously. We are going to keep people excited with every performance.”

History of the Colorado Symphony

e Colorado Symphony has a rich history that dates back to 1922 when its predecessor, the Civic Symphony Orchestra, formed in

several semi-professional music acts scattered across Denver, but no formal orchestra. At the height of the Great Depression, Helen Marie Black, publicist for the Civic Symphony Orchestra, helped form the Denver Symphony Orchestra in 1934. Her goal was to consolidate the local musicians, boost audience attendance and guarantee union wages. e orchestra held its rst concert at the Broadway eater in Denver on Nov. 30, 1934, led by Conductor Horace Tureman.

After a 55-year run, the Denver Symphony Orchestra disbanded in 1989 as the result of nancial hardship. It led for bankruptcy on Oct. 4 of that year. Musicians left the Denver Symphony Orchestra for the newly-formed Colorado Symphony, which played its rst concert on Oct. 27, 1989. e following year, the two groups merged to form one organization.

Since its inception in 1989, the Colorado Symphony has had ve recorded principal conductors, beginning with Marin Alsop in 1993. e current principal conductor, Oundjian, has served in the role since 2022.

One hundred years ago, the symphony in Colorado was di erent than it is today. From a small group of semi-professional local

Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian addresses the crowed at a performance of the Colorado Symphony.

PHOTOS BY AMANDA TIPTON / COURTESY OF THE COLORADO SYMPHONY

SYMPHONY

musicians, the Colorado Symphony has grown in size and in the diversity of its members. e Symphony currently has 80 fulltime musicians, representing more than a dozen countries around the world.

The Colorado Symphony today Denver is a vibrant city full of people who yearn to experience the arts. From taking in contemporary paintings at the Denver Art Museum to seeing hip hop concerts at Red Rocks, and from watching classic works performed by the Colorado Ballet to laughing at stand-up acts at Comedy Works, locals love to get out and experience the best of Colorado arts. “Twenty years ago, people said Colorado was just a great place for the mountains — a great place for sport. at is what people were interested in. I feel there has been a huge shift in what people in Denver want,” Oundjian said. “We had the biggest crowds ever at Boettcher Concert Hall last year. Nobody moves to Denver to just sit inside and watch TV. Colorado is all about getting out there.” roughout the 100 years of symphonic music in Colorado, performances and o erings have shifted and grown to meet the needs and wants of the changing audience. e Colorado Symphony not only performs classical works from composers like Mozart, Brahms and Tchaikovsky, but it also performs contemporary pieces, pop songs and soundtracks from fan-favorite lms.

ese include “Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert,” “Disney in Concert: Time Burton’s e Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Home Alone in Concert.” ere will also be performances for children like the “Halloween Spooktacular,” “Elf in Concert” and “Peter and e Wolf & e Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.”

“In the last 10 years, there has been a tremendous shift from the Colorado Symphony. It is one of the great leaders in the evolution of programming. ey collaborate with musicians from every possible musical genre and from lm,” said Oundjian. “We have absolutely cutting-edge music, world premieres and also the beautiful performances of the great classics. Sometimes we perform these classics juxtaposed to a contemporary piece. We try to keep the program very alive so that the people are attracted to as much of it as possible. You’re not going to appeal to every person in Denver, every night. We try to present, over the course of the season, all of the great elements of the musical art form.”

Oundjian said the Colorado Symphony’s milestone could not have been reached without the longstanding and overwhelming support of the community.

“ is season carries special signi cance as we celebrate 100 years of music and look ahead to the next century of music making in Colorado,” said Oundjian. “ is celebration belongs as much to you and our state as it does to our orchestra, and we can’t wait to share the excitement with you all season long.”

The Colorado Symphony and Chorus performs under the direction of Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian.

Peter Oundjian, the Colorado Symphony’s principal conductor. PHOTO BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

Deaths of people who are homeless in Denver surge 50% since last year

BY OLIVIA PRENTZEL THE COLORADO SUN

e number of deaths among Denver’s homeless population so far in 2023 has spiked more than 50% compared with the number recorded at this time last year.

If the upward trend continues, deaths among people who are unhoused could reach an all-time high, with accidental overdoses continuing to drive the surge, according to data from Denver’s O ce of the Medical Examiner.

So far in 2023, 166 people who were homeless have died, marking a 53% increase from 108 at this time last year, data show, and a 69% uptick from this time in 2021, when there were 98. is year’s data is preliminary, but unlikely to signi cantly change.

e deaths mirror an overall increase of people living on the city’s streets in the past year.

e homeless population in the Denver metro area grew 31.7% in one year and the number of people who became homeless for the rst time saw a 51.7% increase, according to data released last month from an annual count led by the Metro Denver Homeless Initiative.

Since June 1, 43 people who were homeless have died in Denver, including 18 people who died on the streets,

data show. In June alone, 31 deaths of homeless people were recorded, Ethan Jamison, an epidemiologist with the O ce of the Medical Examiner said.

“It’s not the highest we’ve ever seen, but it continued this upward trend that we’ve seen starting since, essentially December of last year, where we’re seeing record-high numbers of deaths among people experiencing homelessness every month, except for March and May,” Jamison said.

Similar to years past, accidental overdoses are driving the increase.

“We see the homeless population increasing, unfortunately, and so I

think we’re just seeing similarly that increasing in our death data, coupled with the tightening grip of fentanyl in our communities that use substances,” he said.

“I think it’s kind of just these chronic issues that continue to grow.”

Amid the uptick, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston declared a state of emergency to address homelessness last month and announced that he plans to house 1,000 unsheltered people by the end of the year.

“With people su ering and dying on the streets every week, homelessness in Denver is a crisis,” the mayor’s o ce said in a written statement last week.

e uptick in deaths since June, the statement said, “underscores the urgency of the situation.”

e number of people who die while they are homeless in the Denver metro area has gone up each year for the past seven years, said Cathy Alderman, a public policy o cer for the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless.

Recording the number of people who have died on the streets, rather than inside a hospital or a medical facility, speaks to the isolation that homelessness can cause.

“You don’t even feel comfortable enough to tell somebody that you’re not feeling well or that you’re having a hard time with a health care condition or you’ve been criminally attacked or something like that,” Alderman said.  More supportive and adequate services to connect people with housing is needed to reverse the “alarming” trend, she said.

“Housing is critical — lifesaving for everybody — it’s like the opportunity to thrive. But it literally means life and death for some people.”

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

A tent at the corner of East 14th Avenue and Washington Street in Denver.

PHOTO BY ERIC LUBBERS, THE COLORADO SUN

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

A 2023 Colorado metro area preps football preview

BY JOHN RENFROW JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

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

From Arvada in the northwest to Parker in the southeast, and the towns and suburbs in between that make up the Denver area, our reporters have a lot of action to cover. And, there’s no shortage of dominant schools, state champions, elite quarterbacks and more.

Ahead of the 2023-24 season, we spoke with schools and coaches as well as our cadre of sportswriters, photographers and freelancers to determine our 10 must-watch high school teams of the season.

First, a disclaimer: with so many great teams, this list was di cult to put together. And with our two dozen community newspapers, this list could have gone way beyond just 10 teams. ere’s a method to the madness, though. e teams, coaches and players who were referenced most by our expert sources were compelling. We did our best to highlight the best in our coverage area – north, east, west and south.

One interesting takeaway, too: e dominant teams are not the only captivating teams. ere are countless reasons to watch any number of teams in the area.

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

“Mountain Vista could also have a breakout year,” sports photographer Paul DiSalvo told me of the Highlands Ranch team. “ ey have maybe the best QB around in Austyn Modrewski.” “Another one I would throw in is D’Evelyn in 2A,” said Dennis Pleuss of Je co Public Schools. “ ey won the 2A League 1 last year, and they are always in the mix for a conference title in 2A.” “In some areas, a better-than-.500 season may not mean much. But it may signal the beginning of a new era in Fort Lupton,” said CCM’s Steve Smith. “ e Bluedevils were 5-4 a season ago, which marked the rst time in nine seasons that FLHS won more

football games than it lost. e last time that happened (2013) was also the last time FLHS advanced to the state playo s. ey’ll be worth keeping an eye on.” “I also want to note that LPS Centennial Stadium has been built at Arapahoe Road and Colorado Boulevard, which will be a great thing to highlight this coming season,” said Heston Mosher, a local freelancer for our newspapers. e new stadium will host Littleton, Heritage, and Arapahoe’s football teams this season. “Lots of fun to talk about, but in the end, the nal will probably be Valor Christian versus Cherry Creek, with Cherry Creek winning AGAIN,” DiSalvo said.

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

1. Cherry Creek Bruins (Green-

wood Village)

2022 record: 12-2, 5A state champions

Week 1: August 25 vs. Ralston Valley

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

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

2. Valor Christian Eagles (Highlands Ranch)

2022 record: 11-3, 5A state

runner-ups

Week 1: August 26 @ Regis Jesuit

What to watch for: Can Valor Christian get over the hump this season? e Eagles lost just two games early last season before going on an undefeated run to the state championship, where they ran into Cherry Creek and fell short 24-17. Reloaded with experienced, returning players, Valor will aim for its rst championship since 2018.

3. Columbine Rebels (Littleton)

2022 record: 10-2

Week 1: August 25 @ Mullen

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

4. Frederick Golden Eagles (Frederick)

2022 record: 8-4

Week 1: August 18 vs. Northridge

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

5. Ralston Valley Mustangs (Arvada)

2022 record: 10-3

Week 1: August 18 @ Mountain Vista

What to watch for: Senior Logan Madden is expected to be one of the top quarterbacks in the state this year. Last year as a junior, Madden was a selection for All-Colorado, First Team All-State, and First team All-Conference, while throwing for nearly 2400 yards and 24 touchdown passes with a 71% completion percentage. If he can keep up his stellar play, the Mustangs could push for double digit wins.

6. Green Mountain Rams (Lakewood)

2022 record: 12-1

Ralston Valley senior Josh Rillos (21) leaps over Columbine defensive back Cannon Burcar (22) during the Class 5A state quarterfinal game Nov. 19, 2022 at the North Area Athletic Complex. The Mustangs took a 28-7 victory over the Rebels to advance to the state semifinals this week against No. 2 Valor Christian.

PHOTO BY DENNIS PLEUSS/JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Fort

FOOTBALL

Week 1: August 25 vs. Golden

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

7. underRidge Grizzlies (Highlands Ranch)

2022 record: 11-2

Week 1: August 25 @ Arvada West

What to watch for: After going 11-2 and 4-1 in the 5A League 5, the Grizzlies emerge as perhaps the biggest mystery on this list. With a lot of graduated talent, and brandnew coach in Sam Camp eld, it will be interesting to watch if underRidge can keep up its dominance.

e culture and reputation is strong, but now there are new faces. It should make for a must-watch season this fall.

8. Dakota Ridge Eagles (Littleton)

2022 record: 6-6

Week 1: August 25 vs. Pueblo West

What to watch for: Senior quarterback Blake Palladino is back for his nal season. e Division I QB committed to the University of Northern Colorado in the o season, and is determined to bring a state championship home for the Eagles. e Eagles graduated RB Noah Triplett, leaving some big shoes to ll. But Palladino tells me he’s excited about the season and is ready to get to work. If nothing else, the Eagles will be a highlight show.

9. Ponderosa Mustangs (Parker)

2022 record: 9-3

Week 1: August 25 vs. Fort Collins

What to watch for: If it wasn’t

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

PHOTO BY JUAN ARELLANO

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Technical Product Manager

Trimble Inc. has an opening for Technical Product Manager in Westminster, CO. Job duties include: Design and deliver selfpaced, remote, and in-person

Trimble Business Center training programs to drive adoption and awareness, engage customers, and enable distribution partners to host their own training events; produce and contribute to technical assets such as whitepapers, user forums, webinars, and videos to communicate the product’s unique values, answer user questions, and identify bugs and enhancements. 25% domestic and international travel required. Must have five years of work experience in the job offered or in a Technical Product Managerrelated occupation. To apply, send resume to TNLJobs_US@trimble. com. Must reference job 6083.1707. Annual Salary: $110,000 per year.

Help Wanted TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Technical Solutions

Cons IV in Westminster, CO (Ref. #7028711). Interface with Poly’s/ HP’s external customers and partners as well as internal sales, services, and engineering teams with a keen focus on satisfying their needs at the highest level.

Telecommuting permitted. Annual

Salary: $102,999.90/year to $132,999.90/year. Mail resume to HP Inc., c/o Yesenia Tejada, 3390 E Harmony Road, Fort Collins, CO 80528. Resume must include Ref. #, full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

LEGITIMATE WORK AT HOME

No Sales, no Investment, No Risk, Free training, Free website. Contact Susan at 303-646-4171 or fill out form at www.wisechoice4u.com

Help Wanted TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Technical Solutions Cons IV in Westminster, CO (Ref. #7028720). Interface with Poly’s/ HP’s external customers and partners as well as internal sales, services, and engineering teams with a keen focus on satisfying their needs at the highest level. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary: $97,335.00/year to $127,335.00/year. Mail resume to HP Inc., c/o Yesenia Tejada, 3390 E Harmony Road, Fort Collins, CO 80528. Resume must include Ref. #, full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

CLASSIFIEDS

Real Estate & Rental

Office Rent/Lease

Office or Commercial Space for Rent

Two Offices ~ Available Immediately

Great Location and Prices!

NEW CONSTRUCTION!

• 1,000 sq. ft office. $2,500 per month with one-year lease.

• Be the 1st to rent one of these great spaces!

• Both offices are located at: 755 Crossroads Circle, Elizabeth, Colorado

Contact 303-660-0420 or 800-3735550

Market Place

Misc. Notices

LOOKING FOR WITNESS TO ACCIDENT

Our family was watching fireworks on 32nd Ave in Golden on the 4th of July a few miles west of COORS Brewery. We were standing outside of our car when a speeding car slammed into our car and the impact forcing my husband (78) and me (76) to the ground. We were both taken by ambulance to St Anthony Hospital. We both sustained serious injuries. The driver of the speeding car left the scene in a Acura ILX, possibly white. That car sustained driver side front end damage. The Golden Police should be notified if anyone has any information. 303-384-8085

WIDOWED MEN AND WOMEN OF AMERICA.

A social club offering many exciting activities and life long friendships.

Social hours for all areas of Metro Denver.

Visit

Widowedamerica.org for details In your area!

Merchandise

Antiques & Collectibles

Medical

Attention oxygen therapy users!

Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

Miscellaneous

Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+?

You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707

Old Crows Antiques featuring The Root Beer Bar

An Antique destination in Littleton Colorado

Join us on Memory Lane. Something for everyone.

Visit us for store info

Instagram:

@oldcrowsantiques

www.facebook.com/ oldcrowsantiques

www.oldcrows antiques.com

303-973-8648

Bicycles

Bikes for Sale

Men’s and women’s adults Fuji bikes for sale. Excellent condition. 303-655-3079

Firewood

Split & Delivered $450 a cord Stacking $50 Call 303-647-2475 or 720-323-2173

Health & Beauty

DENTAL INSURANCEPhysicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurancenot a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/58 #6258.

Viagra stop overpaying! Generic Viagra or Cialis 70 tabletsonly $99 shipping included!

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VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS!

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888-445-5928 Hablamos Espanol

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare

Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 833-308-1971

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debrisblocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-6101936

!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID.

CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277

Inflation is at 40 year highs Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief to find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: 1-877-592-3616

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800245-0398

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

My Caring Plan has helped thousands of families find senior living. Our trusted, local advisors help find solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you. Call 866511-1799

DISH TV $64.99 190 Channels

+ $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR included, Free Voice remote. Some Restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-479-1516.

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service.

Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-4171306

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303-566-4100

classifieds@coloradocommunitymedia.com

SERVICE

Contact

eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Colorado

To place a 25-wordCOSCAN Network adin 91 Colorado newspapers for only $300, contact your local newspaper or email Colorado Press Association Network at rtoledo@colopress.net

PORTABLE

DIRECTV, New 2-Year Price Guarantee. The Most live MLB Games this season, 200 +channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV

Miscellaneous

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888489-3936

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author`s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ads

Scrap Metal, Batteries, Appliances, Wiring, Scrap Plumbing/Heating, Cars/Parts, Clean out Garages/Yards, Rake, Yard work done w/chainsaw, Certified Auto Mechanical / Body Work & paint available Also can do inside or outside cleaning 303-647-2475 / 720-323-2173

HughesNet– Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0 Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage: 1-855-948-6176

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months!

Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

Pets

COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

I am a Master Plumber that has 15 years of experience, licensed and insured, and trying to get my own business up and going. I would be grateful for the opportunity to earn your business, to help a Colorado Native business grow. Mountain Men Plumbing has been around for almost two years now!

give a call to (720) 328-8440!

FOOTBALL

for a two-game skid in the middle of their season, Ponderosa could have very well been undefeated going into the playo s in 2022. Now they bring back nearly everyone, and know how to win cohesively. e Mustangs are strong and experienced at skill positions like receiver, and since the core group is returning, Ponderosa could be scary in 2023.

10. Heritage Eagles (Littleton) 2022 record: 8-4

Week 1: August 25 vs. Mountain Vista

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

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

“A team that might really surprise people this year is Vista, which has been an afterthought on the gridiron in years past but looked to

have a great foundation in place last season. e Golden Eagles nished

7-4 and ranked No. 16 in Class 5A in 2022, but all their key pieces are

back, including junior quarterback Austyn Modrzewski (who passed for a state-second-best 3,327 yards last year) and their three leading receivers (Sean Conway, Jakhai Mack and Ja’pree Jennings), which is huge given that Vista’s o ense is built on slinging the ball around the yard. After the Golden Eagles played Valor Christian last year (a game in which Vista led with just a few minutes left), Vista coach Garrett Looney told me, “[Modrzewski] is only a sophomore, and he’s doing things that I haven’t seen seniors do.’”

Bonus:

- Denver Broncos

2022 record: 5-12

Week 1: September 10 vs. Las Vegas

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

- Colorado Bu aloes

2022 record: 1-11

Week 1: September 2 @ TCU

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

- Colorado School of Mines

2022 record: 13-3

Week 1: August 31 vs. Grand Valley State

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public

Legals City and County

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at the meeting of the Arvada City Council to be held on MONDAY, August 7, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Municipal Building, 8101 Ralston Road, Arvada CO, City Council will hold a public hearing on the following proposed ordinances and thereafter will consider them for final passage and adoption. For the full text version in electronic form go to Current and recent Legal Notices to access legal notices. The full text version is also available in printed form in the City Clerk’s office. Contact 720.898.7550 if you have questions. The full text version is also available in printed form in the City Clerk’s office. Contact 720.898.7550 if you have questions.

CB 23-020 An Ordinance Repealing and Reenacting Sec. 1-5, General Penalty; Continuing Violations, of Chapter 1, General Provisions, of the Arvada City Code.

Legal Notice No. 416728

First Publication: August 10, 2023

Last Publication: August 10, 2023

Publisher: Jeffco Transcript

Public Notice Notice of 2024 Human Services Funding Cycle

The City of Arvada will open its 2024 Human Services Funding Pool on August 14th, and applications will be accepted until 5:00 pm September 1st. This year the City of Arvada will be utilizing Foundant’s online grant application platform. A link to the website is on the City’s Human Services & Community Development Block Grant page to create an account to apply for funding. It can also be accessed at www.grantinterface.com/Home/ Logon?urlkey=arvada.

Human Services Funding focuses on serving Arvada residents classified as low-income, disabled, elderly, and female head of households. Special consideration is given to programs that align with the City Council Strategic Plan, primarily housing insecurity and homelessness.

Human Services Funding awards a total of $260,000 annually to non-profits serving Arvada residents. Funding consists of HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and City of Arvada General Funds. All applications are reviewed and scored by the nine member Human Services Funding Committee. The Human Services Funding Committee meets to determine where funds are awarded.

Human Services Funding Eligibility

1.Must serve Arvada Residents

2. The organization applying for funding must have had non-profit 501 (C)(3) or 509 (A) taxexempt status.

3.A majority (51% or greater) of the beneficiaries receiving assistance from the project or program proposed for funding must have been low or moderate-income (LMI) persons or households based on current FY HUD Income Limits.

And/or

4.The persons or households receiving assistance from the project or program must have been generally presumed to be principally LMI persons or households. This presumption covers abused children, battered spouses, elderly persons, severely disabled adults, homeless persons, illiterate adults, persons living with AIDS, and migrant farm workers.

Should you have any questions, please contact me at 720-898-7497 or nashmore@arvada.org.

Legal Notice No. 416730

First Publication: August 10, 2023

Last Publication: August 10, 2023

Publisher: Jeffco Transcript

The following ordinances were adopted by the City Council of the City of Arvada on second reading following the public hearing held on

August 7, 2023:

Ordinance #4852 An Ordinance Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement By and Among Apex Park and Recreation District, Jefferson County School District R-1 ("JCSD"), and the City of Arvada for JCSD's Priority Use of the George J. Meyers Swimming Center Replacement Facility.

Legal Notice No. 416729

First Publication: August 10, 2023

Last Publication: August 10, 2023

Publisher: Jeffco Transcript

public inspection. Such proposed 2022 amended budget will be considered at a special meeting of the District to be held on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. at the Candelas Parkview Swim and Fitness Club, 19845 W. 94th Avenue, Arvada, CO 80007 and via Teams video/teleconference. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to adoption of the final 2022 amended budget, inspect the 2022 amended budget and file or register any objections thereto.

THIS MEETING WILL ALSO BE HELD BY

VIDEO/TELEPHONIC MEANS.

You can attend the meetings in any of the following ways:

1.To attend via Teams Videoconference, email rachel.alles@claconnect.com to obtain a link to the videoconference.

2.To attend via telephone, dial 1-720-547-5281 and enter the following additional information: Phone Conference ID: 437 837 836#

VAUXMONT METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

By:/s/ Lisa Johnson, District Manager

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 29-1-108 and 109, C.R.S., that an amended budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Vauxmont Metropolitan District (the “District”) for the year of 2022. A copy of the proposed 2022 amended budget is currently on file at the office of the District Accountant, CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, 8390 E. Crescent Pkwy., Suite 300, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, where same is available for

Legal Notice No. 416727

First Publication: August 10, 2023

Last Publication: August 10, 2023

Publisher: Golden Transcript

Jeffco Transcript and the Arvada Press

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Legacy junior Kullen Lerma throws a pass during the second quarter of a Sept. 25, 2022 contest against Mountain Vista at Five Star Stadium. The Lightning won 41-28.

PHOTO BY JONATHAN MANESS