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Cr ea ting Communi t y by Connecting Neighbors God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,.... - Psalms 46:1-2

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By Linda Allour Love could be considered one of the most important human emotions. From the moment of conception, biologically we are connected with our Mother; this is a bond that in theory cannot be broken. However, sometimes due to life choices and circumstances, the bond must be separated for the wellbeing of the child.

At age 11 “Joe” would feed his younger siblings and make sure they went to school since Mom wasn’t capable. At age 14 “Sue” took care of her niece since neither her Mom nor her Sister was able to care for her niece. Sadly, the situation for “Joe” and “Sue” is not uncommon. They are still children, trying to take care of children. These are circumstances that create the need for the Foster system.

Most of us may not even be aware of the critical need of foster parents or the support needed by a foster family. Tracee Rudd, the Director of Colorado Kids Belong, became aware of the foster crisis when her brother, Todd (and his wife) became foster parents. To show support, Rudd and her husband Dave took training as “helpers” with the foster system.

Not really intending to foster or adopt, Rudd continued her work with the Colordo Kids Belong. That changed when she met a child thru a video program used to bring awareness to certain kids needing a family: Something just connected. Thru a series of feelings and comments from family, whether it was from God or coincidences or both, Rudd and her husband pondered the idea of fostering.

Rudd and her husband had “kind of a ‘why not’ thought” believing they had “enough support around them”. Through a series of visits, the Rudds welcomed a teen child in need to their home on Mother’s Day in 2020. Fast forward to 2023, the Rudd’s welcomed a second teen into their home. As with many families, Rudd says we’re just a “crazy beautifully

blended family”, but we had to be trauma aware and ready for it to be hard.

Being a foster parent and subsequently adopting the child is not easy. Rudd warns future foster parents that the journey “is messy and not always easy”. She says you have to ask yourself, “Do you have enough margin in your life for the time needed” to handle all that comes with fostering or adopting a child that comes from a broken place. Being a foster or adoptive parent many times can include dealing with substance abuse in addition to PTSD, anxiety, or depression.

The government does provide Medicaid, counseling, training, but additional support is significant for success.

The Colorado Kids Belong is the additional support many foster parents need. You can help in many other ways besides fostering or adopting. Rudd feels “these aren’t government kids, these are OUR kids”. Businesses can give discounts or special services to foster/adoptive families. If you can’t foster, you can still make a huge difference.

“Joe” was adopted separately from his siblings, but does keep in touch. “Joe” needed to release the role of parent and focus on his own healing. “Sue” needed someone else to help with her niece so she could focus on her needs as a young adult.

The ability to guide and discipline without the child feeling rejection and “to get to a place of trust” is one of many rewards Rudd has felt. Children need a chance to experience a healthy connection and to live joyfully, not just in survival mode.

Love can help repair a distressed child. To be part of healing our children, start by going to www. cokidsbelong.org. Every Child deserves a future filled with hope, love and the joy of belonging.

You can read true-life stories of foster/ adoption in Loved by Choice: True Stories That Celebrate Adoption, available through Amazon. com at https://a.co/d/i3r89vl.

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Page 2 Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Mead, & Erie —Local News & Business Info February 2025 Vol. 26, Issue 2

Kelly MartindalePublisher What's OnMy Mind One More Chance YouTube’s national news had many options to view in the days leading up to the Inaugural events. The People’s March, Saturday, January 18, 2025, caught my attention. It took half a minute to realize it was another chance, and in their words, “a demonstration to oppose” then President-elect Donald Trump.

I scrolled through speakers, listening to dramatic expressions of accepting all people in every walk of life, lifestyle, race, age, and religion. Then a bit of chaos ensued.

March supporters blocked and pushed away a man holding up a sign that simply read, “Jesus Saves.” These same people put themselves between that man and the news cameras and shoved him until he was essentially ejected from the group.

Rejecting a Jesus believer was the opposite action of what their speeches had projected. All should be welcome at The People’s March. Truth says every human is loved by their creator. ***** Later, a marcher held up a sign that read, “We matter more than zygotes, embryos and fetuses.” Again, I was struck by the incongruity that the sign was lifted by someone who, in fact, started as a zygote (a single cell that is formed when a sperm and egg cell fuse, contains all the genetic information needed for an individual to develop into a baby), developed into an embryo and later was a growing fetus who was allowed to live and eventually hold up that sign. Isn’t that a perfect example of irony?

I continued listening to various speakers and pondered their objectives. The collective message leaned heavily on women’s rights, well, one right—to choose death on demand, starting with the most vulnerable, pre-born children. The darkness thickens as more Americans accept the lie that abortion, genocide, letting the elderly and infirm die, and euthanasia are acts of mercy and an inherent entitlement.

Regardless of your belief system of how humans came to be, killing another being isn’t an act of compassion or a gift of dignity. It’s a sacrifice of one human for the benefit of another. The Creator of life commands us to care for the innocent, the sick, the marginalized, and the underserved. It’s our duty to protect and nurture, not dispose of them.

Two of my five pregnancies (one ended in miscarriage) were out of wedlock. The first one, I was seventeen and a senior in high school.

I was terrified. I know what it’s like to consider having an abortion.

The fear is unbearable. The questions regarding how I let that happen and what was I going to do, cause panic and desperation.

I empathize with every female faced with an unplanned pregnancy. But most of us must own our original decision—our first choice to have sex. I’m not talking about rape or incest. Those actions are a criminal violation. Yet, regardless of the sexual act, every single zygote was known by God when it was made in the secret place. (Psalm 139:15 NIV).

Even if there seems to be no other choice, aborting a baby is sacrificing a child on the altar belonging to the enemy of life. I know many who’ve made that choice. Thankfully, it’s not the end of their story. There is One who loves us even when we’ve made dreadful mistakes. The cross of Jesus, His death being the greatest of sacrifices, and His resurrection accomplished blotting out our bad decisions. (Micah 7:18-19 NIV) *****

Tracy Rewerts NASM CPT, CES, CCLC, APSATS Trainee

1999-2025

Listening to additional speakers and reading more signs, I realize I’m no different from these protesters. I’ve made many unwise choices in my life and rationalized each one. Eventually, my mind and heart were affected by those choices and to live with myself, I needed to fight for my rights—or I needed to come clean. I made the decision to sit with Jesus and express the how and whys, the excuses. Through those conversations, I was cleansed and freed from the chains I’d bound myself. I learned God always gives second chances. ***** Into another hour of the march, I noticed a crassly penned sign, “If My Vagina Shot Bullets, You’d Regulate It Less!” I’ll admit that sign was a creative way to push the agendas of getting rid of guns and allowing abortions. More irony.

Do those people do their homework? Apples and oranges, as the saying goes. According to www.bradyunited.org/resources/statistics, 23 minors are shot each day in the U.S. www.everytownresearch.org/ graph/firearms-are-the-leading-cause-of-death-for-american-childrenand-teens/ says that 12 of them die every day. BradyUnited.org states that mass shootings make up 1% of gun violence.

I don’t take these numbers lightly. My nine-year-old daughter and my twenty-three-year-old son died in separate accidents. All child deaths are a tragedy. But the participants at The People’s March and many others in our nation, seem unaware that every day in America, there are 2,841 abortions as compared to 12 shooting deaths.

In 2023, the above links show there were just under 4,500 shooting deaths. I feel confident to assume that not one of those parents chose to take the life of their child.

On the other hand, statistics from https://www.guttmacher.org/ monthly-abortion-provision-study shows an estimated 1,037,000 abortions occurred in the formal health care system in 2023, the first full calendar year after the US Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization overturned Roe v.

Wade. Each abortion death is a choice.

The casualties and destruction in our nation and around the world must stop. We lack respect for another’s opinions and choose estrangement instead of communicating our faith and convictions.

I believe this latest election was God drawing a line in the sand.

His heart breaks at what one human does to another.

He created us from His love. He has beautiful plans for every individual, starting in the womb. Ephesians 1:4-14 (NIV) tells us before He created anything He had a plan for you and me.

You may call it the big bang, but regardless, we’ve been given a chance to pursue life in a better way, the right way—His way.

God may be extending to us one more chance to choose life over death by embracing good, old-fashioned morality. The results of choosing to do the right thing helps avoid bad choices and the negative consequences that follow.

If you don’t already, consider the existence of God and Jesus.

Just by living according to their teachings, we can alleviate stress and problems for ourselves, grow peace, and foster safety and unity in our communities. Love and forgiveness conquer hatred and division, and following Jesus’ example brings us together.

Let’s seize this divine opportunity and choose the path of life, guided by love, faith, and unwavering moral principles.

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Snow Is On the Way! E R O M

Consumer Report 6 Carbon Valley|Mead|Erie

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KEEP BREATHING

A Survivor’s Guide to Finding Hope, Healing and a New Normal After the Death of Your Child

Has Your Child Died?

KELLY FORDYCE MARTINDALE Local Support Group If you’ve suffered the loss of a child, you’re invited to join other moms who share this experience. Whether it’s been years ago or weeks ago, we can support each other. Come sit and share or not share. Mark your calendars for Sundays, 2/16 & 3/9 from 4:00pm to 6ish pm. RSVP not required but helpful.

Held at Prairie Greens Clubhouse (Thank you) at 7781 Mountain View Dr. in Frederick, CO 80530. Just drop in, even if you’re running late.

Join us and visit with one another.

Email Kelly at carbonvalley@gmail.com.

• At our January meeting, after the business portion, the kids made Valentines cards.

We will drop them off at the senior care center in February.

• Upcoming events: • Monthly Freethinkers meeting for February is the second Sunday 2/9 at 4:30. Please contact us for the location.

• February 1st - Camp Cloverbud-Keenesburg • February 2nd - 4H volunteer day at the Weld Food Bank • February 4th - 4H Officer training - Greeley • February 5th - Shooting sports meeting - Greeley • February 15th - Leather craft Workshop - Greeley • February 15th - Visual Arts Workshop - Greeley • February 22nd - Shooting Sports Safety Day - Greeley • February 22nd - Creative Cooks Contest - Brighton

If you have questions about 4H please reach out to Rachael Smith at 4rachael.smith@gmail.com or Danielle Lammers at lammers4H22@gmail.com or 720-470-3293 (leave a message).

We hope you and your family stay safe and warm. Firestone Freethinkers 4H Club. (Kenzie Lammers, reporter)

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A long-time customer contacted us recently. She wanted us to hook up a new printer with the Instant Ink program. The printer wasn’t purchased yet, and I remembered hearing that Instant Ink printers weren’t all that great. I asked her to wait, promised to look into it, and would let her know. Here’s what I found: Programs like HP’s Instant Ink and Brother’s Refresh EZ programs are subscription plans. Essentially when you get a printer compatible with these programs, you are not really purchasing a printer. You are signing up for a subscription to print a set number of pages each month. You’ll receive more ink when HP or Brother determines that you need it. If you print the same number of pages every month, this may be an option to consider.

If you print 10 pages one month and 100 the next, this program won’t work for you. In addition, it appears that if you discontinue the program, even if you have 90% ink left, you won’t be able to use the rest of the ink in those cartridges.

There are lots of online complaints about the service, mostly about how the printer stops working, suddenly, with no warning. The error is almost exclusively because a credit card was changed, or the printer was disconnected from the network. Here’s an image of one of the error messages: Not everyone is complaining about the service. Some people just don’t want to be bothered to remember to buy more ink. Here’s a comment from Reddit: “My elderly mother had Instant Ink and liked it. She didn’t print much each month, but she did use her printer regularly. She is very forgetful and used to run out of ink all the time before she had instant ink. Mom FELT like she wasn’t spending much because it wasn’t much per month.“ But then added that it was a more expensive option: “When that printer died, I convinced her to stop using the service, and I now take care of ordering replacement cartridges. She’s saving money even though she doesn’t feel like it.”

Kelly Martindale, owner of this newspaper, had the opposite experience. “I loved it at first. The ink cartridges showed up just before I needed them and I sort of built up a stash of them. But when I upgraded to a new printer, all the extra cartridges I had couldn’t be used anymore. I couldn’t even give them away. The cartridges have chips and only work with the subscription printer,” Kelly said.

Printers have, unfortunately, turned into a disposable appliance. Software problems are fixable. With physical problems, it’s just more cost-effective to purchase a new printer.

If you do need to get a new printer, make sure you understand what you are purchasing.

If you need help setting up a new printer or connecting it to your network, let us know!

For more information or to schedule PC or MAC repair, contact Geek for Hire, Inc., at 303.618.0154.

The Dealers You Love

Weld County To Freeze Childcare Program The Weld County Department of Human Services (DHS) will implement an enrollment freeze on the Colorado Childcare Assistance Program (CCAP), effective Feb. 1, 2025, due to program funding shortages. This decision comes in response to a combination of factors, including newly introduced federal regulations and increased state-mandated provider rate adjustments. Unfortunately, these changes have not been accompanied by sufficient funding at either the federal or state level to fully support the necessary adjustments, leading to the need for this difficult but necessary step.

CCAP is designed to assist low-income families who are homeless, working, searching for work, or currently enrolled in school with childcare assistance.

DHS Director, Jamie Ulrich, said, “We understand the negative impact this will have on the families and communities we serve, but with a lack of funding, this is something we have to do to continue supporting our enrolled families.”

This enrollment freeze will mean that general information will be accepted in lieu of a full application, however submissions received on or after February 1, 2025, will be placed on a “freeze list” and eligibility will not be determined until the freeze has been lifted after an undetermined period. Families who are currently enrolled in CCAP will not be affected, assuming they continue to meet eligibility criteria.

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Page 4 Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Mead, & Erie —Local News & Business Info February 2025 Vol. 26, Issue 2

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Many people have looked to the real estate market as a place to diversify their investment portfolio.

The stock market and mutual funds have increased quite a bit over the last few years, but they still have their ups and downs, so spreading out your investments into other things may be something to consider. The idea of having someone else make the payments on your property so that you gain equity is very appealing. Ownership can be either directly or through your retirement account.

One of the ways to become a landlord, is to buy a new home for yourself and keep your existing home as a rental property. As with any method, you must analyze what best meets your specific needs. In the current market, we are starting to see a little more inventory in the move-up price ranges due to more new construction, so in those price ranges you are usually not in a bidding war for a property.

The first consideration is whether or not your current home would make a good rental. If the property is in the lower to middle price range in an area, it may be a good rental. Conversely, a higher priced custom home will not bring in the same proportion of rent to value as the lower valued house.

Advantages to this method of acquiring property can include an easier move, better financing, knowledge of the physical condition of the rental property and a way to move up in house and build long term wealth. Since you would be purchasing a new home to live in, the timing and moving is under your control and since you are already very familiar with the home, you know potential physical problems that you would have to deal with.

Financing can be an advantage because it can be more cost effective to use the equity in your current property, which can be taken out at a lower interest rate. Instead of needing to save up a large cash down payment, the current home can be refinanced at today’s low interest rates. Then, when you purchase the new home (with the down payment from the old one) you get another attractive loan as an owner-occupant.

Another important consideration is the management of the property. Decide carefully between finding a tenant yourself and hiring a professional to manage the property for you.

You may save some money up front, but if you are not careful, doing it yourself can cost more in the long run. Your retirement account can also own real estate, not just stocks or mutual funds, so for some people, this can be a good way to diversify a portfolio. There are specific rules pertaining to this and not all account managers are set up for it, but it may be worth consideration.

Your Realtor can be of great help in starting you on the right path by looking at your specific needs and desires, as well as educating you on what you don’t know. Owning real estate has been one of the great ways of building long term wealth that our country offers.

By Greg Zadel, CRS, CRB, GRI, ePro: 2011 Realtor of the Year, Colorado Association of Realtors | 2008 President, Colorado Association of Realtors | Zadel Realty | Call or Text 303-550-5817 | Firestone | greg@zadelrealty.com | www.zadelrealty.com

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Vol. 26, Issue 2 February 2025

Consumer Report—Like us at Facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport

Page 5

Obituaries and Memorials (FREE)

Obituaries, Memorial Messages & photos are always FREE in our publications~ Please tell the funeral home to send obituary to us or you can e-mail to carbonvalley@gmail.com. Because we are a monthly paper, most funeral dates will be past.

You may post funeral service information at www.facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport and we will share with the community.

George Paul Walter

Gillian Elise Peck

George Paul Walter of Casa Grande, AZ, and Frederick, CO, departed this life January 2nd, 2025.

George was born May 31, 1942, son of Paul Walter and Velda Walter (née Smart). After the early passing of Velda, he was raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, by Paul and stepmother Hildegard (née Happel). In Cedar Rapids, George attended grade school at Trinity Lutheran and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1961.

Building on a youthful enthusiasm for mechanics, George carried out his military service as a B-47 bomber mechanic at Pease Air Force Base in Portsmouth, NH, from 1961 to 1965. In the 60s and early 70s, he turned a passion for automobiles to success in car sales in Portsmouth, NH, Denver, CO, and Everett, WA. Some of his fondest memories were of starting Little Auto City in Denver at the young age of 24.

After graduating from Everett Community College in Washington State in 1968, he began a career in life insurance sales, which remained his vocation for the rest of his working life. While eventually becoming an independent agent, he sold insurance notably for Aid Association for Lutherans and the Presbyterian Ministers Fund.

George married Kathleen, née Wolf, in 1965, from which marriage he leaves 4 children: Adam, Aaron, Andrew, and Susan.

George married Bobbi, née Krueger, in 1994, from which marriage he leaves 5 stepchildren: Tamra, Paula, Troy, Scott, and Lantry. Bobbi was his devoted wife of 30 years and his caregiver during the difficult, final months of his life. In Bobbi’s words, “George was my adventurous, fun guy and a great joy to be with.”

The impact of George’s life is best expressed in the memory of these ones who loved and now mourn him. And the list extends to his 19 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren as well as to his nieces, Stephanie Walter and Christa Walter, and their children, and to his sister-in-law, Sandra Walter.

Most recently, George attended church at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, Broomfield, CO and at Risen Savior Lutheran Church, Chandler, AZ. Visitation was Friday January 17th, 2025 12:00 noon - 1:00p.m, followed by Funeral Services at 1:00p.m both at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1515 N Trekell Road, Casa Grande.

Flowers may be sent to Trinity Lutheran Church in Casa Grande, AZ. Charitable donations in George’s memory may be sent to Trinity Lutheran Church and School in Cedar Rapids (1361 7th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404) and Concordia Seminary (801 Seminary Place St, Louis, MO 63105).

Gillian Elise Peck, 65, of Firestone, Colorado returned home to her Lord and Savior on January 7, 2025 after a life of service to family, community, and nation. Gillian was born on November 11, 1959 in Danville, VA to Gene Lockey and Dolores Gray who preceded her in death. Gillian married John Earle Peck on July 28, 1986. John preceded her in death after 36 years of marriage. In humor, she was fond of saying they stayed together because they were both stubborn and nobody blinked first.

Gillian didn’t just grumble about life’s inequities, she acted. When upset with her Homeowners Association, she ran for president and served for five years. When upset with her government, she attended caucus and manned voter registration. Gillian served others whether opening a retirement facility, taking in and raising her grandchildren, or providing hospice care to her mother inside her home. She volunteered at Vacation Bible School, wrote service members each Christmas and Valentine’s Day, and steadfastly found a way to support Carbon Valley Help Center and the Weld County Foodbank.

Working with her friends, her legacy includes the complete renovation of the Idaho Creek Open Space to protect many endangered species, the creation of a stress release / relaxation room for Joint Task Force Service Members deployed in the Guantanamo Bay Detention Area, and organizing shipping crate containers of support for Christians fleeing Iraq during the ISIS invasion saving hundreds of her brothers and sister in Christ.

Gillian was fiercely loyal to her family and friends, adored her cats, steadfastly rooted for the Denver Broncos, cherished her father’s voice singing Amazing Grace, and loved a good oceanside chair at Myrtle Beach.

Gillian Elise Peck is survived by her father: Gene Lockey, siblings: Jana Dean and Kevin Lockey, children: Anna Daggs, Thomas Herrin, Timothy Herrin, and Samatha Peck, the grandchildren Gillian adopted and raised: Claire Peck and Brittany Peck, her other grandchildren: Halie Peck, Katelyn Daggs, and great-grandchildren: Amelia Brown, McKenzie Peck, Brent Swain Junior, Malakai Swain, and Jonathan Swain.

To honor her wishes, no funeral service will be held.

Any gifts in her name should be acts of service to store up your treasures in heaven, for Gillian to no longer be present with us was to be present with Jesus.

May 3, 1942 — January 2, 2025

November 11, 1959 – January 7, 2025

WCR 6 & WCR 13 Roundabout

David Johnson is UP’s Senior VP

As construction of a roundabout is underway at the intersection of Weld County Road (WCR) 6 and WCR 13, residents are asked to sign up for an email newsletter, intended to keep them informed of significant progress throughout the roughly eight-month project. Signing up for the newsletter is easy. Visit the county’s newsletter sign-up page, enter an email address and select “WCR 6 & 13 Roundabout.”

“We understand the importance of this intersection to many, as more than 7,000 vehicles pass through it every day,” said Curtis Hall, Director of the Weld County Department of Public Works.

Local traffic within the area — residents with homes in the construction area, business owners, postal carriers, etc. — will still be accommodated and can access property by utilizing WCR 4, 8 11, 15 or 17, which have been established as “Local Traffic Only” road closures.

Detours can be found on the Weld County Road Advisory Map https://apps.weld.gov/publicworks/roadadvisory/

United Power is pleased to announce the hiring of David Johnson (R) as its Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. He will join the cooperative on Jan. 13.

“David brings the depth and experience we need in this critical position,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President and Chief Executive Officer. “As United Power continues to navigate our energy transition, it is imperative that we have the right people overseeing the security of the many information systems that make our cooperative run smoothly.

David’s diverse background brings a rich blend of experience in a variety of utility fields.”

“As utilities incorporate more technology into operations, it improves the member experience. Having the right people overseeing those additions is vital,” said Gabriel. I am confident he is the right addition to our leadership team and will help us as we continue to grow the cooperative and the services we offer members.”

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Page 6 Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Mead, & Erie —Local News & Business Info February 2025 Vol. 26, Issue 2 Hearthy is 6!

We are so thankful for you!

You have such a joy for life that FREE Birthday Announcements. Send one is so beautiful to high resolution photo w/ “birthday” typed in subject line to carbonvalley@gmail.com by be apart of. You 10th of each month. have grown so much this last year Happy 18th Birthday and it’s been a Yeya!!! Seems like just pure joy to see yesterday, was the day you blossom. You we brought you home. have a loving Wishing you the best heart, think of on your special day. others constantly, We love you. and your Love, thoughtfulness is Mom, Mom & Dad unparalleled. The & The Littles creativity you exude and thoughtfully bring to life shows your inner beauty. May the Lord bless you and keep you.

We love you dearly. Love Daddy, Happy 3rd Mommy, Knightley, Finan, and Talis Birthday Happy 25th Birthday Jacob Beck.

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CVCR Policy: The CVCR takes a non-partisan approach in election support and Letters to the Editor. The CVCR does not endorse candidates but prints bios, platforms, and letters, FREE, as space is available and only edits for spacing.

Area Mayors’ Report—For those of us who don’t attend meetings FIRESTONE MAYOR, DON CONYAC

Hello Firestone Residents, It’s February, which always reminds of one of my favorite movies of all time, Groundhogs Day, starring Bill Murray. The message in this movie is very good and falls in alignment of what I see as keeping that small town feel alive in Firestone and moving towards the goal of Unity in the Community. If you have never seen it, or it has been a while since you have, search for it in your streaming apps and check it  

MEAD MAYOR, COLLEEN WHITLOW

 Responsible Growth: The High Plains Blvd (WCR 9.5) project is progressing steadily. This initiative will construct a twomile stretch of roadway between WCR 32 and WCR 36, featuring two travel lanes, dedicated bike lanes, and a 10-foot-wide detached sidewalk. A collaborative effort between the Town of Mead, Weld County, and local developers, the project is on track for completion by December 2025.  Reliable Infrastructure: Construction crews have officially

FREDERICK MAYOR, TRACIE CRITES

 Happy February, Frederick—a month to share a little extra LOVE with the special people in our lives! As your mayor, I feel truly blessed to be part of a community that means so much to me! Here’s just a few opportunities to recognize and celebrate people’s significant impact on our town.

out. If anything, you will have a good laugh.  To continue along the lines of Unity in the Community.

We all know that the Carbon Valley does not yet have the infrastructure or areas of housing to support our senior citizens.

The Town of Firestone is working on it, but it has been slow going. In the meantime, two of the Carbon Valley’s residents are starting a new company that would use an app to match nearby neighbors with nearby senior citizens who need a little help with daily tasks. They are looking for people, both helpers and seniors, who would be willing to experience the platform firsthand and provide feedback on its usability and effectiveness. The company is designed to connect seniors seeking non-medical assistance with trusted neighbors looking for meaningful work. This is not a volunteer type of situation. The helpers are compensated. If you feel like this would be something for you to check out, here

is their website, www.sineceracorp.com if you would like to sign-up, go to https://sinecera.care/signup . They will reach out to you when testing is ready to begin. To be clear, this is a start-up private company and not part of the Town of Firestone government. It is my hope that this concept catches on in other communities as well.  Pinecone Ave, also known as C.R. 20 is closed between Frontier St. and C.R. 19 for the replacement of the bridge that is just east of the town’s public works facility. It will be closed until roughly July 1st. Please plan accordingly.  As always, you can stay connected with the town by going to the website: www.firestoneco.gov , Facebook @ firestonecolorado, Instagram @firestonecolorado, LinkedIn @ townoffirestone and Nextdoor @town-of-firestone.  Thank you for reading this. I wish you all the best.

begun mobilizing for the Third and Welker Avenue Intersection Improvement Project. This major upgrade will include the addition of new left and right turn lanes on all approaches, medians for improved access control, expanded sidewalk connections, significant drainage improvements, and a new traffic signal to enhance intersection efficiency and safety. The project is expected to be completed by Fall 2025.  Public Safety: The Mead Police Department serves an area of over 125 road miles and 13 square miles, encompassing 2,365 housing units and a population of 6,622 residents. The department also provides coverage along I-25 and CO 66, supports three schools with over 2,600 students and staff, and has two School Resource Officers (SROs) who split their time between the schools.

Currently, staffing levels include one patrol officer per shift.  Fiscal Stability: On January 4, the Board of Trustees held its first retreat of the year at the Public Works Facility. During the session,

trustees reviewed ongoing Town projects and discussed long-term goals. These retreats play a crucial role by allowing the Board to align priorities, ensure efficient resource allocation, and plan strategically for the Town’s future growth and financial health.  Connected Community: To minimize the impact of nearby construction projects, the Town of Mead will pause large-scale events at Town Park through the summer of 2025, including concerts, movies, and other special events. While alternative locations were considered, logistical challenges made them impractical. This pause allows the Town to survey the community, gather input, and redesign events, incorporating the new Community Center to better align with residents’ expectations. Stay updated on Mead’s projects and news by subscribing to our monthly Mead Messenger and signing up for email notifications: bit.ly/mead-emails. If you are new to Mead, check out the Resident Information page at bit.ly/47PocLg.

 School Resource Officer Appreciation Day is February 15.

A big shoutout to the incredible contributions of the FHS School Resource Officers, who positively impact our students’ lives every day. Special congratulations to Officer Fairbanks on an extraordinary milestone—25 years of dedicated service in law enforcement!  National Engineers Week, celebrated from February 16 to 22, highlights engineers’ contributions to shaping and strengthening our communities. Step by step, our Engineering Department is making significant strides in enhancing transportation and ensuring water security for a stronger, more resilient Frederick. Last year, the engineering team managed several large-scale projects, including water dedication requirements, conservation initiatives, drainage improvements, portfolio management, and essential roadway maintenance and upgrades. Thank you Engineering!

 The Town of Frederick is proud to support our graduating seniors through the Scholarship Program. This program provides financial assistance to help students pursue their post-secondary education goals.

Applications are being accepted online through February 28, 2025.

Apply online now to take advantage of this exciting opportunity. https://

www.frederickco.gov/984/Scholarship-Program

 Celebrating local businesses. Our local businesses are more than spots to shop, dine, or find goods and services. They invest in our town by creating jobs, fostering meaningful connections, and strengthening our community! Thank you for choosing Frederick! We are proud to have your dedication and passion in our community!  February Mayoral office hours are offered Feb 11, 3:30pm5pm and February 24, 9am-11am. Join me to share what is important to you. I look forward to our time together. I LOVE being your mayor!

Vol. 26, Issue 2 February 2025

Consumer Report—Like us at Facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport

Health&WELL BEING Food for the Soul: Music Washes From The Soul The Dust Of Life

By Jim Coleman After I met the Lord in 1970, I was fortunate to come upon a special group of on-fire believers on the campus of Iowa State University and fellowshipped with them for the bulk of the next couple of decades until moving to Colorado in 1988.

One of their peculiarities was using the Bible as a hymnal- many of the Christians in the group put music to passages that really ‘grabbed’ them spiritually, so there was no shortage of Bible-based music among us. The songs were catchy, and we readily memorized them through repetition, accomplishing two good things at once. Not that we didn’t use hymnals (and eventually) new spiritual songs, along with the Bible ones, but the bulk of our praises came from the Bible itself.

From the Old Testament to the New, along with Psalms and Proverbs, we had a blast with music. One Book had it all!

I’d like this month to give you a random sampling from the whole of Scripture, starting with Exodus 15:2. It was from the KJV, and the first verse went like this “I will sing unto the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and rider thrown into the sea.”

Then that verse was repeated, and the next group started it over while the first group went on to “The Lord, my God, my strength, my song, has now become my Victory.”

Here’s one in Numbers23: 19,20. “God is not a man, that He should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent. Hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Behold, I have received a commandment to bless, and he hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it.” (repeat first line).

Joshua 1:9- “Have I not commanded you? (repeat) Be strong and courageous. (repeat) Do not tremble or be dismayed (repeat), for the Lord your God is with you, wherever you go. (repeat song).

The Psalms are loaded, because of course they were all songs. Psalm 1 in its entirety; Ps 19:7-11; Ps. 25:1-7 and 8-10; all of Ps. 46 and 67 and 98 and 150. So many more Psalms over the years- this list just scratches the surface.

On to Proverbs 3. “My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life, and peace they will add to you.”

The chorus comes from verses 5 and 6 “Trust in the Lord, with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Verse two is verse 3 “Do not let kindness and truth leave you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart, so you’ll find favor with God and man.” (Chorus again) Verse 3 is verses 7 & 8 “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and turn from evil. It will be healing to your body, and refreshment to your bones.” (chorus) Final verse is 13 &14. “How blessed is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding. For its profit is better than the profit of silver, and its gain than fine gold” (chorus and done).

I John 4: 7,8 “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God, and knows God. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. Beloved, let us love one another.”

We’ll stop with Rev. 19:6b &7. “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns.

(Repeat). “Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory unto Him.” (repeat 1st line).

This session has no doubt been far more exhilarating for me than you readers, unless some of you were in one of these many churches yourself. I could hear the songs and the enthusiasm of the many college students who were a part of those gatherings of believers.

But I hope you can get some of the flavor, if not the sound, of these precious verses. In our home in Berthoud hangs a sign I found in my college days in Missouri while looking at an abandoned house that cattle had walked through. It reads, “Music washes from the soul the dust of life.” This is indeed true. My sign was found in a rusted metal frame but printed on leather, and it is now properly glassed in a wooden frame hanging above my wife’s piano.

Music is meant to bless you, and good Christian music heads my list of refreshing and certainly true rhythms and harmonies.

Try some for soul-soothing blessings.

Jim pastors along with Josh at Abundant Life Church, 4380 Hwy 66, just 3/10 mile east of I25 on the south side. Church starts at 10 am, so bring the family and don’t be late.

EDITOR’S NOTE: While driving in the car you can listen on the radio to KLOVE, 91.1 for more uplifting, life-changing songs.

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The Benefits of Strength Training

Page 7

6

Strength training is one of the best exercises for your overall health. In short, this is done by making your muscles 1999-2025 work against resistance or force, and can come from using your own body weight, free weights, exercise equipment, and machines.

Studies have shown that strength training has so many health benefits including: • Building muscle strength, increasing mobility, range of motion, and metabolism.

• Improves endurance, balance, blood flow, and mental health.

• Reduces your risk of falls, injuries, bone loss, chronic illness, cognitive issues, and can make daily activities easier to perform.

For women, strength training during the childbearing years can help prep your body for a healthy pregnancy and delivery. In your late 30’s, women start to lose around 4 -7% of your muscle mass each decade. Women in the peri/post-menopausal years will need to build and maintain muscle to prevent age-related muscle loss. That’s why it’s so important to have a consistent strength training routine during all of your adult years.

Hiring a personal trainer to help with your strength training program has many benefits. Some women feel self-conscious going to the gym, or they may not know where to start. When you hire me as your Mobile Personal Trainer, I come to your home for your convenience. You can expect a high level of accountability, motivation, and a workout program that’s customized for your specific fitness goals.

Through my 13 years of personal training experience, and prior medical training in Occupational Therapy, I know when and how to make modifications to prevent injuries, and challenge you in a way that helps you reach goals without compromising your form or quality of movements.

I have a passion for helping women improve their health through fitness and nutrition. I’m offering $20 Off an 8 Session Mobile Personal Training Package through the end of February. I also offer Strength Training Group Fitness Classes 2 days per week to add into your fitness routine. To find out more, visit www.BeginLifeAnew.com or call 303828-2856 for a complimentary consultation. Tracy Rewerts, NASM CPT, WFS, CES, CCLC

The Voice of Rabshakeh Just quit. Give up. You can’t do it. You won’t succeed. God is punishing you.

Negative voices are everywhere in life. Those critical words, those doubt causing statements, those insults, and phrases of discouragement can be very destructive to the spirit. Once the seeds of doubt and fear enter the mind, if not combatted correctly, they will grow a gray cloud of dysfunction and cause instability and inaction.

Have you heard of Rabshakeh from the Bible? He was an emissary of the King of Assyria, the world dominating empire of the time. Assyrian forces had conquered the northern territory of Israel and continued their destruction south into Judah. While attacking cities of the Shephelah, in the fertile hills and valleys, Sennacherib, King of Assyria, sent a delegation to Judah’s king, Hezekiah, living in the fortified city of Jerusalem in the high country. The delegation’s mission was to intimidate and cause Hezekiah to surrender without a fight. It would save Sennacherib time and resources using propaganda to defeat Hezekiah if he could scare him into submission with fear tactics. This would be much simpler than besieging a walled city in the high hills of the Promised Land. Rabshakeh was the voice of Sennacherib to Judah’s king. In addition to violent threats and persuasion to surrender, Sennacherib sent letters of the same to be hand-delivered to Hezekiah reminding him of Assyria’s violent victories against the peoples and their “gods” who were powerless to protect them.

The voice of Rabshakeh shouted out for all in Jerusalem to hear and fear: What reason do you have for confidence? Don’t think to make alliances (plans) because they will fail. There is no reason to hope. You cannot trust your leader; he lies to you. Come out and we will bless you; stay and you will eat your own dung before we kill you. No god can save you, not even your own! Look at the devastation we have caused, has any god been able to stand before us?

The truth about this was that Hezekiah knew of all the destruction and devastation that Sennacherib’s brutal armies had already caused, and a great many lives in Judah were already gone. Hezekiah took the letters he had received and brought them before the Lord, praying, “Incline your ear, O Lord, and hear, open your eyes, O Lord, and see; and listen to all the words of Sennacherib… Now, O Lord our God, deliver us from his hand that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You alone, Lord, are God.” God sends Isaiah the prophet to Hezekiah in answer to his prayers. God declared, “Because you prayed… he will not come to this city or shoot an arrow there; and he will not come before it with a shield, or throw up a siege ramp against it. By the way that he came, by the same he will return, and he will not come to this city, for I will defend this city to save it for my own sake and for my servant David’s sake.”

The hero in the story is not Hezekiah, it is God Almighty. But the lesson for us today, a leader or not, is to have this attitude: Trust God, trust that He will fight for us and bring deliverance. Be devoted to prayer! Know that He loves us and wants us to experience joy and peace, not anxiety, despair or defeat.

Don’t listen to the voice of Rabshakeh. What will happen in life because YOU prayed?

Read about this account in 2 Kings 18:13 – 19:37; 2 Chronicles 32:1 – 23; Isaiah 36 – 37.

Weld County Welcomes New Commissioners Jason Maxey replaces Commissioner Mike Freeman, who served as commissioner of District 1 for 12 years.

Lynette Peppler replaces Lori Saine, who served as commissioner of District 3 for four years.

Commissioners are voted in to serve a four-year term. If re-elected, commissioners can serve up to three consecutive four-year terms.

Sign up for Weld County Updates at https://www.weld.gov/Newsroom/Newsletters/ County-Roots

Page 8 Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Mead, & Erie —Local News & Business Info February 2025 Vol. 26, Issue 2

CREATING YOUR DREAM BASEMENT

Game Area Wine Cellar Barn Door Artist's Studio Craft Room Exercise Space Wet Bar Full Basement

george@basementspecialists.com www.basementspecialists.com

“I’m excited to serve our new homeowners for their projects in 2025. Reflecting back on the last 25+ years I am grateful for the support of my family and friends, the incredible homeowners and their projects I completed, the tradespeople and workers-past and present and our vendors and key suppliers who collectively have made this journey so wonderful. Thank you! And looking forward to many more.”

George Zyznieuski, Founder & Managing Director

Carbon Valley Multiple Sclerosis Support Group

Carbon Valley Help Center Needs Your Help

The Carbon Valley Multiple Sclerosis Support group meets on the third Saturday of each month at the Carbon Valley Library, located in Firestone, at 10 AM. These are Meetup formats, where all can ask questions, share experiences, or just chat with others who also battle MS. Caretakers and partners are welcome, as are people from our neighboring communities like Fort Lupton, Mead, Erie or Longmont. If you know of someone that has MS, this is a safe, handicap accessible location that welcomes their participation. No need to drive to Denver, Fort Collins or Boulder anymore, this is our local group!

Using your King Soopers loyalty/shopper card, or other store cards, helps us when you choose us as a recipient of that store’s donation program. Open the app, click the 3 bars, click on search organization and enter Carbon Valley Help Center and Enroll.

The other way is to Adopt a Shelf and fill it once a month. For more info call 303-8336626 or email schmitzac@carbonvalleyhelpcenter.org or visit carbonvalleyhelpcenter. org. We helped 205 clients w/2666 lbs. of food in 12/25.

Greetings Motorhead Show Attendees, We’ve received some tough news. The Town of Mead is engaged for the foreseeable future in a large-scale infrastructure project. Unfortunately, due to the scope of the project, and all of the access problems it brings, city staff have decided to cancel all 2025 events at the beloved Town Park. I’ve been assured 2026 is a go, and with all the infrastructure upgrades, our show will be bigger and better than ever! Thanks to all of you for your continued support of this show, and get excited for what 2026 will bring with venue upgrades, additional space to include more cars, and ability to raise more funds for veteran causes. Best wishes, The Mead Motorheads AC & Heating Repair | Alignment Repair | Alternator & Starter Repair | Auto Inspection | Brake Repair CV Axle Repair | Car Battery Installation | Catalytic Converter Repair | Clutch Repair

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ITEMS 30 DAYS AT

/Handsonautomotivetech

Frederick Meals on Wheels Now Hiring Meals on Wheels of Greeley and Weld County is seeking a part-time Satellite Program Manager to oversee daily operations of our Firestone office, including managing client and volunteer records, coordinating delivery routes, recruiting and training volunteers, maintaining kitchen operations, and fostering community relationships. This role requires strong communication, organizational, and computer skills, along with the ability to work independently and lift up to 25 pounds. The position is Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 1 PM (25 hours/week). Join us to make a meaningful impact in the community!

Email resume or questions to info@MealsOnWheelsGreeley.com.

CVCR_9.5x3.725_H4G.indd 1

Group Fitness Classes & Mobile Training

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@grandpaspawnandgun grandpaspawnandgun

303.772.7952 www.grandpaspawnandgun

11/18/2024 3:13:24 PM