Jeffco Transcript December 12, 2024

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Serving Lakewood, Wheat Ridge and beyond

WEEK OF DECEMBER 12, 2024

VOLUME 41 | ISSUE 19

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Google Fiber opens Colorado headquarters in Lakewood BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

WESTMINSTER More than 50,000 people visited the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms in 2023.

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COURTESY OF DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS. PHOTO © SCOTT DRESSEL-MARTIN

Trail of Lights shines bright for the holidays at Chatfield Farms BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

For those seeking holiday magic, the Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms is lighting up the season with a dazzling display of sparkling lights. Now in its 16th year, the event welcomed more than 50,000 visitors in 2023, cementing its place as a favorite destination for families and holiday enthusiasts across the region. “This year, we have over a million LED lights strung throughout the trail, all supporting our sustainability mission,” said Erin Bird, associate director of communications for the Denver Botanic Gardens.

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Installation begins each October after the Pumpkin Festival wraps up, continuing until the opening in late November. “We reuse many of the decorations year to year, and we always try to bring something new — whether it’s a feature tree in a new color or a completely fresh display,” Bird said. The feature tree, which glows in a different color each year, has become a highlight for returning visitors. As far as which colors they choose, Bird said, “It’s just the whim of the team.” “We know there are a lot of people who come back every year, so we like to make it a

fresh experience,” Bird said. This year’s additions include a massive illuminated Christmas tree sculpture and interactive displays like the music-synced treehouse play area. Bird explained that guests can stroll a mile-long loop or take a shorter route. On select nights, the Holiday Market offers local crafts, gifts, and specialty foods, adding an extra layer of festivity. According to Bird, the Trail of Lights isn’t just about holiday cheer. It’s part of a broader effort to highlight Chatfield Farms’ year-round appeal. From its July Lavender Festival to the Pumpkin Festival

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VOICES: 10 | LIFE: 12 | CALENDAR: 15

Google Fiber recently opened its Colorado headquarters in Lakewood’s Belmar Plaza, marking a significant step for the city’s digital and economic growth. According to the company, the new office will oversee the installation and management of Google Fiber’s network across the metro area, state and region. “The Google Fiber headquarters is a welcome addition to Lakewood’s thriving economy,” said Lakewood Mayor Wendi Strom. “It supports our residents by bringing jobs that help them live and work here, while also contributing to a vibrant downtown with places to shop and enjoy. It’s an exciting step forward for our community.” Alberto Garcia, Google Fiber’s government and community affairs manager for Colorado, Idaho and Utah, echoed Strom’s enthusiasm. “We’re really excited to be part of the Lakewood community,” Garcia said. “Lakewood was our first city (to receive the Google Fiber network). It was the first place we signed, the first place we’re serving customers, and now it will be our home. The collaboration with Lakewood city staff was instrumental in identifying potential locations and our decision to locate in the Belmar community.” Garcia also said the company is proud to be part of Denver’s vibrant and growing technology landscape. The headquarters boasts a unique Colorado flair, including a mural painted by a local artist, skis and snowshoes adorning the walls and conference rooms named after landmarks like Pikes Peak, according to a Lakewood statement. Strom said she’s especially proud that the opening continues the mission of her office and the city council to make Lakewood a desirable and affordable place to live and work.

in October and year-round wildlife viewing, the farm provides outdoor experiences for every season. “There’s something special here, whether it’s seeing the gardens come alive in the spring or catching a glimpse of migrating birds,” Bird added. Running through Jan. 5, the Trail of Lights invites visitors to bask in the season’s glow while enjoying a quintessential Colorado experience. Tickets and additional details are available on the Trail of Lights website at www.botanicgardens.org/events/special-events/trail-lights. SEE TRAIL OF LIGHTS PHOTOS, P8

SEE GOOGLE, P9

SUPPORT LOCAL NEWS SEE PAGE 32 TO LEARN MORE

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