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ANNAPOLIS, Md. – Garrett D. Colvin of Firestone, Colorado successfully completed four years of challenging

academic, physical, and professional military training, graduating from the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science with honors, a minor in French, and a commission as a 2nd. Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. Garrett is a graduate of Frederick High School, in Frederick, Colorado. At the academy, Garrett was a member of the 19th Company, serving as Company Commander the second semester of his senior year. Garrett is the 5th generation in his family to serve our great nation and the 3rd generation to become a United States Marine.
Founded in 1845, the U.S. Naval Academy today is a prestigious fouryear service academy that prepares midshipmen morally, mentally and physically to be professional o cers in the naval service. More than 4,400 men and women representing every state in the
U.S. and several foreign countries make up the student body, known as the Brigade of Midshipmen. U.S. News and World Reports has recognized the Naval Academy as the 2025 #1 public school and #3 best liberal arts college. Midshipmen learn from military and civilian instructors and participate in intercollegiate varsity sports and extracurricular activities. ey also study subjects such as leadership, ethics, small arms, drill, seamanship and navigation, tactics, naval engineering and weapons, and military law. Upon graduation, midshipmen earn a Bachelor of Science degree in a choice of 26 di erent subject majors and go on to serve at least ve years of exciting and rewarding service as commissioned o cers in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps. e Brigade of Midshipmen is comprised of approximately 4,400 students from every state in the union. Each year, about 1,200 students are admitted to the Naval Academy’s incoming class.

e academy’s alumni include, one president, 32 members of Congress, six governors, 72 Medal of Honor recipients, two Nobel Prize winners, 56 astronauts, 56 Rhodes Scholars, and over 4,000 admirals and generals.
Older woman celebrating 100th birthday with cake Are you or someone you know celebrating a 100th birthday this year? We want to celebrate, too! e Centennial Club honors residents turning 100 or older with a proclamation by the Weld County Board of Commissioners at a livestreamed board meeting, as well as recognition on our social media channels. Get started by completing a short questionnaire. We can’t wait to celebrate this milestone birthday with you or a loved one!



































Every few weeks another tragedy lls the headlines.
An earthquake devastates a community. A hurricane washes away homes. Floodwaters rise. Wild res spread. A shooting steals innocent lives. A deadly accident changes families forever.
For a few moments, we stop what we’re doing. We watch the news. We shake our heads. We whisper, “How awful.” We o er up prayers for people we’ll never meet. en we go back to our day.
Until one day we can’t. e phone rings… or there’s a knock at the door and suddenly mortality walks into our living room.
Recently I watched reports from Venezuela after the earthquakes. Rescue crews searched through damaged buildings while families stood waiting for news of the people they loved. e death toll became more than a statistic. Every number represented someone’s husband, wife, parent, child, brother, sister, or best friend.
As I watched, it struck me that those families had probably watched tragedies unfold on the news before too. ey had likely prayed for strangers and quietly thanked God it wasn’t happening to them.
None of them expected the next tragedy to become their own.
None of us ever do.
Lately I’ve noticed myself thinking of my dad a little di erently. He recently turned 88. One of my best friends is experiencing di culties with her dad. Every doctor’s appointment seems more signi cant than the last. She and I pray for strength, wisdom, and healing for our dads, yet wonder why God sometimes allows them to linger through illness and declining health.
Waiting is its own kind of grief.
Many of us have already stood beside a hospital bed and said goodbye to a loved one. Some have buried a child, a spouse, or a parent. Even more are caring for someone whose body is slowly failing while their mind remains sharp or opposite, the body is healthy, but the mind isn’t. Now we lie awake at night knowing one phone call could change everything.
Grief has a way of teaching us how fragile this life really is.
When su ering becomes personal, our questions become personal too.
Why, God?
Why now?
Why them?
Why didn’t You stop this?
I’ve asked those questions myself. Not from a place of unbelief, but from a heart that desperately wished the story had ended di erently.
e Bible is lled with people who asked the same questions. Job asked. David asked. Even Jesus cried out from the cross.
Over the years I’ve discovered something important. e biggest question isn’t always “Why?” e deeper question is, “Who do I believe God is while I wait for answers I may never receive?”
Eventually every one of us will face loss. It may come through disease, an accident, violence, natural disaster, or simply old age. None of us is exempt from living in a broken world.
What determines our peace isn’t the manner in which someone dies. It’s the One who meets us in our grief. If Jesus truly conquered death, then death is not the end. If salvation is real, then separation is temporary for those who belong to Christ.


June marks a special time of celebration as we recognize America’s 250th anniversary, Colorado’s 150th anniversary of statehood, and Weld County’s 165th anniversary. Weld County will commemorate these milestones by sharing historical information on the county social channels, along with patriotic bunting displayed on the Weld County Courthouse. ere will also be a proclamation read at the board of county commissioners meeting on June 15.

If heaven is real, then grief, while still painfully deep, is no longer hopeless.
Our faith doesn’t erase sorrow. Jesus Himself wept at Lazarus’s tomb even though He knew resurrection was only moments away. Faith doesn’t keep us from crying. It gives us hope while we do.
I still don’t understand every reason God allows su ering. I doubt I ever will this side of heaven. But I’ve learned this. When the unthinkable became my story, God didn’t disappear.
He met me in the hospital room. He carried me through my children’s funerals. He stayed with me long after everyone else had gone home.
He never promised I’d avoid grief. He promised I’d never face it alone. at’s why what we believe matters long before tragedy ever comes knocking. Chuck Swindoll said, “It’s too late to learn to swim when you’re drowning?” Our deep beliefs get us through the trying times of life.
Because one day, for every one of us, the headlines will become personal. And when they do, we’ll need more than answers. We’ll need the Savior who walks beside us through the valley.
“Jesus told her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.’” John 11:25 (NLT)
Please pray for my friend. Her dad is now with Jesus. He and her mom raised a wonderful daughter. My life is blessed because of them.










Deadline for Every Issue of the CVCR is the 15th of Each Month... Late??? Try Anyway!

7 7 1999-2026
Carbon Valley|Mead|Erie
303.833.5997 | carbonvalley@gmail.com
Elderly couple having a meal together
e Friendly Fork program, o ered by the Weld County Area Agency on Aging, provides nutritious and delicious meals for older adults at 21 sites across Weld County. Each meal o ers one-third of the recommended daily nutrients, supporting the health and well-being of our community’s older adults.
Weld County residents age 60 and older, spouses of eligible participants, volunteers helping on the day of service, and residents of senior living facilities that host Friendly Fork (Birchwood Senior Housing, Broadview Apartments, Greeley Manor, and Greeley Senior Housing) are all welcome to join. ere is no fee for eligible guests, only a suggested $5 donation that helps to supplement the program. Non-eligible guests may attend for a $14 fee.
Reservations and cancellations are required by 11 a.m. on the business day prior to the meal at (970) 400-6955 or email friendlyfork@weld.gov.
For menus, site locations, and additional services, visit www.weldaaa.org.
New for Summer: Evening meals can be enjoyed every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., from June 2 through August 11 at the Platteville Senior Center!
Reservations are required by 11 a.m. the day prior and can be made by calling the Town of Platteville Recreation Department at (720) 815-8136 or the Weld County Nutrition Hotline at (970) 400-6955.
Share your vision for aging well in Weld County
Group of seniors having a conversation around a table e Weld County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is looking ahead, and we’d love to hear from you.
Whether you’re an older adult, caregiver, family member, neighbor, or someone who simply cares about aging well, your voice matters:
What’s working well for you or someone you know?
What challenges are you, your family, or neighbors facing?
What services are you using now, and what might be needed in the future?
Over the coming months, we’re hosting Community Conversations across Weld County to gather real stories, ideas, and feedback that will help shape our 2027–2031 Area Plan. This plan guides how we support older adults in our community, and it’s stronger when it reflects the real experiences of our residents. No presentations, just relaxed, informal, and welcoming conversations. It’s a chance to share your experiences, listen to others, and help shape future AAA services.
As Weld County continues to grow and change, your input will help ensure programs keep supporting independence, health, and quality of life for older adults. Please join us at the location most convenient for you. No registration is required.
August 31, 11 a.m., Fort Lupton Community Center (203 S. Harrison Ave., Fort Lupton)
September 3, 11 a.m., Erie Community Center (450 Powers St., Erie)
September 24, 11 a.m., Carbon Valley Community Center (151 Grant Ave., Firestone)
4th at Firestone
Celebrate Independence Day at the 24th Annual 4th at Firestone!
Join us for a full day of patriotic fun for the whole family! Kick o the festivities with a lively parade through Historic Firestone, then head to the park for a bustling street fair packed with free games, crafts, and hands-on activities. Enjoy delicious eats from food trucks, browse unique vendors, and soak in live entertainment and a festive beer garden. As night falls, the celebration reaches its peak with a spectacular reworks show lighting up the sky. Don’t miss this unforgettable day of community, fun, and celebration!
Saturday, July 4, 2026 | Miners Park

Live Music & Entertainment
e main stage will be rocking all afternoon and evening! Enjoy back-to-back live performances leading up to a dazzling reworks display to close out the night.
Check out www.firestoneco.gov/133/4th-at-Firestone for full music perfomers and times of performances.

Appointments are still available for the Town of Firestone Blood Drive on Tuesday, July 7th from 3:00–7:00 p.m. at the Firestone Police Department (9900 Park Ave, Firestone, CO 80504).
Your donation could be the lifeline someone desperately needs. We invite you to schedule your appointment today and be part of this life-saving e ort.
Type O blood is in critical need right now. If you are Type O, your donation is especially urgent — please consider giving today.
Make Your Appointment Now or call 877-25-VITAL.
Helpful tips for donors:
Save time on the day of your appointment by completing the Fast Track Health History questionnaire online before you arrive.

Learn how to best prepare for your donation by visiting Vitalant’s website at https://www.vitalant.org/ Bring a friend! Multiply your impact through the Vitalant Refer a Friend Program: https://www. vitalant.org/referafriendpromo
Because of donors like you, life doesn’t stop. ank you for making a di erence — we hope to see you there!






























































































































































































ROTARY FRUIT
PICK-UP DATE: Saturday, August 22, 2026



























































































Colorado drivers risk losing vehicles to fraudulent third parties e Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Motor Vehicle Investigation Unit (MVIU) is warning vehicle owners of a rising scam where third-party “helpers” are illegally seizing vehicle ownership under the guise of assistance.
“Our investigators are seeing a troubling trend where scammers exploit the title and registration process to take legal control of a person’s vehicle,” MVIU Investigations Chief Dana Chavez said. “ ere is no reason a third-party needs to help you title your car.” Fraudsters often target individuals who lack standard identi cation, o ering to act as a “Power of Attorney” or asking to be added to the title to “facilitate” registration. While it may be tempting to pay someone to “help” you, once their name is on the legal document, they become the legal owner and can sell, tow, or seize the car without the victim’s consent. Someone who is not an actual owner to that document—or putting the vehicle in their name entirely—grants them the legal rights to your vehicle
To ensure your vehicle remains legally yours, the rst and most vital step is obtaining a valid Colorado driver license or identi cation (ID) card. Because Colorado provides these identi cation documents regardless of your immigration status, there is no need to rely on a third party for help.
“We urge all residents to always use o cial channels rather than third-party ‘helpers’,” Chavez said. “ is is the best way to ensure their vehicle stays in their name.”
As a reminder, depending on how you bought your car, the following methods are the safest and most o cial ways to register your vehicle:
Bought it from a person? Customers participating in private sales must visit their local county DMV o ce. Additionally, these buyers should always conduct a VIN check before purchase to ensure the vehicle is not stolen.
Bought it from a car dealership? Customers who purchased a vehicle from a dealership can conveniently use the DMV’s online services or go to their local DMV.
To learn more about the most common motor vehicle and driver scams and fraud impacting Coloradans, please visit our scam/fraud alerts webpage.



By Skylar Whalen
A new pest has made its way into Colorado, and it’s not what you might expect. Last fall, in 2025, near the Sam Brownlee Training Center in Carr, a rare noxious weed was found: rush skeleton weed. Up until this point, rush skeleton weed was only known to be in Boulder county, but now it has been found in Northern Colorado.
According to the Colorado Department of Agriculture, this Asian-Mediterranean plant is highly invasive and dangerous to the native ecosystems. It grows bush-like, about one to four feet tall, and consists of up to 10,000 seeds per plant. The seeds are easily spread through the wind and can remain in the soil over the span of three to five years. As they over winter, rush skeletonweed can resemble the rosettes of a common dandelion.
rough the spread of seeds and dormancy, it can quickly form monocultures and destroy native grasses by displacing them. In mid-July bright 9-12 yellow owers will begin to bloom on each plant. e roots of this plant are extensive, with hairy stems that continue into a smoother quality towards the ower.
Weed Division sta in Weld County aggressively responded to the weed as soon as it was identi ed. Kathy Gri ey rst spotted the unusual plant along the road. She and Supervisor Tina Booton removed it mechanically, and with chemicals, they lled about 60 trash bags and treated four parcels of land.
Booton said, “It appears that it can spread quickly and that control options may be more di cult.”
Because rush skeleton weed is so invasive, it now sits as a List A species in Colorado. is means that the weed must be eradicated, and the Colorado Department of Agriculture recognizes rush skeleton weed as a severe threat.
The biggest challenge in the county and surrounding counties is tracking down the infestation. The weed’s range of invasion is unclear, and Weld County officials aren’t sure if the rush skeletonweed is spreading outside of Northern Colorado borders. Landowners are being asked for assistance in hunting down these tricky weeds.
“Working together is our best opportunity to catch it early and get it out of Weld County before it starts to disrupt the landscape or be a hindrance to farmers growing crops,” Public Works Director Curtis Hall said.
Public reporting is crucial. If residents see rush skeletonweed, they should call the Weed Division rst before removing the suspected plant.
e Weed Division is a total of eight sta members who treat more than 1,000 acres of noxious weeds annually. Help from the public will help prevent this weed becoming established further, keeping Colorado’s wildlife native instead of invasive.

https://www.weld.gov/Government/ Departments/Public-Works/Weed-Management or call (970) 400-3770.
U.S. Department of State Scholarship for Exchange Program in Germany
Frederick, CO (June 25, 2026) – CIEE, (Council on International Educational Exchange), a nonpro t study abroad and intercultural exchange organization, is pleased to announce that Cameran Gutsche, a junior at Frederick High School, is one of 210 American high school students to be awarded the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year. CBYX is a bilateral exchange program co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and German Bundestag (Parliament).
As a CBYX participant, Cameran will spend the academic year in Germany living with a host family, attending a German high school, and participating in a language and cultural exchange program to share their U.S. culture and gain a better understanding of German culture, language, and everyday life. Additionally, there will be the chance to visit the German Bundestag, meet with American and German government o cials, participate in intercultural seminars, and explore the country through excursions to nearby cities and historical sites.
Each year, on behalf of the U.S. Department of State, CIEE awards 105 CBYX scholarships to high-achieving high school students from 23 states, Washington D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, allowing youth from a wide variety of communities to participate in a full cultural immersion experience. The CBYX program, which is jointly funded by the U.S. Congress and the German Bundestag, was created to foster international understanding and strengthen ties between Germany and the U.S. through citizen diplomacy. The program is a true public‐private partnership, leveraging the contributions of host families, educational institutions, and local communities.
Not only do American students go abroad to Germany, but German students also come to live and study in the United States to promote the same level of understanding on both sides of the Atlantic. Since its inception in 1983, the CBYX program has allowed more than 30,000 participants to strengthen their leadership and career skills and become global citizens. Many go on to study at top colleges and universities, and all participants become part of a global network of U.S. Department of State program alumni.
For more information about CBYX, visit exchanges.state.gov/cbyx or contact CIEE at 800-448-9944. German language skills are not required to apply for the scholarship. To learn more about hosting an international high school exchange student coming to the Frederick area for the 2026-2027 academic year, please visit www.ciee.org/host-families.
About CIEE
Since 1947, the nonpro t organization CIEE: Council on International Educational Exchange has been bringing the world together, advancing peace by building bridges between di erent people, di erent countries, and di erent cultures. For almost 80 years, CIEE has helped young people participate in high-quality international exchange and study abroad programs that help them develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. We change lives, our alumni change the world. Since 1997, CIEE has served as an implementing partner to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural A airs on several prestigious high school scholarship exchange programs, including CBYX. Learn more at www.ciee.org.



Responsible Growth: The Town of Mead has been approved for a $25,000 grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA).
The funding will assist with the preparation of an Economic Development Strategic Plan, an important initiative that will help identify opportunities, establish priorities, and support the Town’s long-term economic growth.
Reliable Infrastructure: Construction continues on the High Plains Boulevard (WCR 9.5) roadway improvement project between Weld County


As we head into July, I’m reminded of how special summer feels in Frederick. From neighborhood gatherings and community events to evenings outside with family and friends, this is a season that brings people together.
With Independence Day upon us, I want to start with an important reminder about fireworks safety. In Frederick town limits, fireworks that leave the ground or explode are illegal unless they are part of a permitted public display. A simple rule of thumb is this: if it goes up or blows up, it’s illegal. Please celebrate responsibly, look out for your neighbors, and help keep our community safe.


Hello Firestone Residents,
I hope you are all enjoying this beautiful summer we are having.
For this edition of The Firestone Voice, I would like to dedicate this article to the celebration of The United States 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
In historical terms, 250 years is not a lot of time, as many countries of the world are far older than The United States. But that number is significant in history regarding the history of a certain style of government.
That style is Democracy.
Now, many people believe, wrongly due to MSN and even many of the representatives that have been elected, that our country is a Democracy.
Road 32 and WCR 36. This collaborative Weld County and local development bike lanes, two roundabouts at WCR wide detached sidewalk. Crews are currently at WCR 32, which will be open to east, completion in the fall. Work will then shift corridor is anticipated to open to the public Public Safety: As e-bikes increasingly popular in Mead, the Town safe and responsible use for riders, pedestrians offer a convenient and enjoyable way added weight require extra awareness follow traffic laws, yield to pedestrians, stay attentive to their surroundings.
Fiscal Stability: The Town $600,000 grant through the Colorado Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance
This year’s celebrations recognize Colorado’s 150th and our milestones give us a chance to reflect on community we share today, and look together.
July also brings one of Chainsaws & Chuckwagons, returning to watch talented carvers turn logs into opportunity to enjoy food, entertainment, neighbors.
I also hope you’ll join us for These informal gatherings are a great way officials, and one another while learning happening throughout Frederick. Some settings like these.
As our community continues of the most important issues we face. Thank in the Roads & Routes Transportation
That is not true. Our country is a Constitutional democracy to elect our representatives to President are elected by the electoral college vote), this is why the many states that do not greater say in who will be President and larger populations. It eliminates the tyranny
What is interesting is how our on the structure of the government that not have the space in this article to go if you want to know please read The Federalist argument of the time regarding what should government, we have now.
Now getting back to the number because, throughout history no democracy years. Mainly due to the structure of majority majority would become so large (i.e. like and Colorado) that it became Tyranny government would collapse due to the
Our founding fathers knew
By Kelly Fordyce Martindale
Some people see concrete. Matthew and Mikki Hostert see a blank canvas.
e Frederick couple own Crown Resin Coatings and e Yard Father Landscape & Design, two locally owned businesses dedicated to transforming homes and businesses inside and out.
While many area residents know them for creating unique landscapes, they’ve also developed a reputation for turning ordinary concrete into custom works of art through decorative resin ooring.
For the Hosterts, it’s about much more than installing oors. “We fell in love with the artistry of metallic resin and ake ooring,” Mikki said. “It’s amazing to take a plain concrete slab and turn it into something genuinely beautiful. We didn’t start this business just for the money. We started it because we are passionate about making things pretty.” at artistic vision is paired with a commitment to craftsmanship. Every project is custom designed, combining beauty with long-lasting durability for garages, basements, patios, commercial spaces, trailers and more.

collaborative effort among the Town of Mead, development partners includes two travel lanes, WCR 32 and WCR 34, and a 10-footcurrently constructing the roundabout east, west and southbound traffic until shift to the WCR 34 intersection. The full public in November. and off-highway vehicles become Town remains committed to promoting pedestrians and motorists alike. E-bikes to travel, but their higher speeds and awareness and caution. We remind all riders to pedestrians, wear appropriate safety gear, and Town of Mead has been awarded a Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Assistance Fund (EIAF) to support construction
carry even more meaning as we our nation’s 250th anniversary. These on where we’ve been, appreciate the ahead to the future we are building of Frederick’s most unique events, returning July 15–18. It is always incredible works of art, and the event is a great entertainment, family activities, and time with for Community Tour & Talk on July 8. way to connect with Town staff, elected learning more about projects and plans Some of the best conversations happen in continues to grow, transportation remains one Thank you to everyone who participated Survey over the past several months.
Constitutional Representative Republic using a certain point. The President and Vicecollege using democracy (the popular not have large populations have a much and Vice President than those states with tyranny of the majority. our founding fathers eventually settled would carry our nation forward. I do into detail on how that occurred, but, Federalist Papers. They were the open should be considered when forming the number 250. It is significant in history democracy lasted longer than 250 majority rules. Over time a particular like the states of California, New York Tyranny of the majority, and eventually the oppression of the majority.
knew that they definitely did not want the


Service has always been central to the Hosterts’ lives. Mikki is a U.S. Navy veteran and former law enforcement o cer whose military discipline and attention to detail continue to shape the way the couple approaches every project. Although Crown Resin Coatings is newer to the industry, they believe decades of experience working in high-pressure environments prepared them well for building a business centered on integrity, excellence and customer care.
One project stands above the rest.

A family was renovating their basement so an elderly mother su ering from Alzheimer’s disease could move home and live with them. Crown Resin Coatings created a custom metallic oor using shades of white, pearl and deep gray. When the family unveiled the nished space to their mother, the moment left a lasting impression.
“Knowing we helped create a beautiful, safe, durable environment
of the Town’s new police station. The funding will help advance Mead’s new approximately 20,000-square-foot police facility, planned on Townowned property, west of I-25, near the Liberty Ranch subdivision. The project is currently in final design. The new police facility will provide the space, infrastructure and operational capacity needed to support modern law enforcement services, secure evidence handling, legal compliance requirements, and safe working conditions for both staff and the public. Connected Community: Join our annual Independence Day Bike Parade on Saturday, July 4, from 10 a.m. to noon. Bring your self-propelled wheels and decorate them with our free red, white and blue supplies before the parade. Then join us on Friday, July 24, from 6–9 p.m. at Mead Town Park for Mead After-Hours: Music Mash-Up, a high-energy, music-focused evening celebrating live entertainment, community connection and summer fun in a dynamic, festival-style setting. Keep up with what’s happening in Mead by subscribing to the monthly Mead Messenger and signing up for email updates at www.townofmead.org/portal. New to Mead? Visit the Resident Information page at bit.ly/47PocLg for helpful resources.
Your feedback about congestion, roadway safety, maintenance, and future needs is helping guide important conversations about transportation funding and priorities. Your voice matters, and your input helps shape a better Frederick.
With warmer temperatures and continued drought conditions across much of Colorado, water conservation also remains important this summer. Frederick continues to operate under Stage 1 Water Shortage guidance, which focuses on voluntary conservation and reducing overall use.
Finally, I invite residents to join me for my July office hours: July 8, from 2 pm to 3:30 pm, and July 31, from 9:30 am to 11 am. These conversations are informal, open, and always valuable to me. Whether you have a question, an idea, or a concern, I appreciate the chance to listen and learn more about what matters most to you.
Thank you for caring about Frederick and for helping make it such a wonderful town. I wish you and your family a safe, happy, and memorable July.
monarchy style of government they were breaking free from. But they knew Democracies never worked, just as socialism and communism have never worked. Both ended up with the same results over time. Severe oppression of the minority and severe shortages of the necessities for the populations of those governments.
A Constitutional Representative government using the electoral process was a radical new idea at the time. This is one of the reasons the United States has been referred to as The Great Experiment.
We are at the extreme end of any Democratic government, but our country is a Republic. Is there political upheaval right now? Yes, but I believe a Constitutional Republic will far out live any Democracy.
This leads me to my last question for you. What if each state, instead of a democratically elected government, chose to elect their state government exactly how the federal government is elected using the electoral system. You would treat Counties as you would States and those counties that do not have the large populations would have as much say as those who do. I think this would solve some of the issues we have in this country now.
I hope you go and enjoy the Fourth at Firestone events this year. I wish all of you a safe and very Happy Independence Day.













for her to be with her family, that’s the real reason we do this,” Mikki said. I recently had Crown Resin Coatings install ake coating on the base oor of our enclosed trailer, and I experienced that same commitment to quality rsthand. e transformation was remarkable. What was an ordinary plywood oor became a professional-looking, durable surface with a nish that immediately caught people’s attention. eir craftsmanship, meticulous attention to every detail, and pride in their work were evident from start to nish.
Matthew’s creativity is another reason the business has earned loyal customers. Mikki, with a large smile, says that her husband only needs to see something once before he can recreate it himself. With an incredible memory and a natural eye for design, he often envisions entirely new looks for a space within minutes. Mikki balances those talents with her own artistic gifts, creating handcrafted jewelry, dream catchers and other keepsakes.
Mikki is also the author of the children’s book Anchors Away in Quartz Lake, found on Amazon. In the book, join Kenidi and her family on an adventure in their home town of Anchors Away in Quartz Lake. Learn about doing the right thing, helping others, not littering, adapting to change, and working together in this fun, shy tale for the whole family.
Away from work, family remains their highest priority. Whether spending time with their children, working out together or continually learning new techniques in their trade, the Hosterts believe personal growth makes them better business owners.




eir partnership re ects that same commitment. In addition to their Weld County wedding, Matthew and Mikki were also married in a traditional Lakota ceremony on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota, an experience that remains deeply meaningful to them.
Whether they’re designing an outdoor living space through e Yard Father Landscape & Design or creating a one-of-a-kind resin oor through Crown

Resin Coatings, the Hosterts approach every project with creativity, integrity and genuine care for the families they serve. For more information about Crown Resin Coatings, call 303-718-8482, email crowncoatingsco@gmail.com, or visit www.crownresinco.com.
For landscaping and outdoor living projects, contact e Yard Father Landscape & Design at 720-603-6386, email yardfatherco@gmail.com, or visit www.yardfatherlandscape.com.
ere’s still one more opportunity this year to connect with your neighbors, Town sta , and the Board of Trustees at Community Tour & Talk! We are all about building connections and hearing directly from you! Learn about Town projects and future plans, ask questions, share your ideas, and enjoy a fun evening with your community. Dinner is provided by the Town in partnership with local eateries, giving you a chance to enjoy a taste of Frederick. Be sure to RSVP so we can plan, and send us any questions in advance.
Wednesday, July 8 | Savannah Park – 6201 1/2 Ralston St. | Starts at 6 pm
All Frederick residents are invited! We hope to see you there for the nal Community Tour & Talk of the season.
One of the best ways to conserve water is to make sure you’re using it e ciently in the rst place. ink of your sprinklers as part of your outdoor care routine. Just like your car needs a tune-up, your irrigation system can bene t from a check-up too.
A FREE Slow the Flow sprinkler evaluation from Resource Central gives you a clear picture of how to water more e ciently. In about 75 minutes, you’ll receive expert guidance, personalized recommendations, and simple adjustments that can help reduce outdoor water use while keeping your landscape healthy.
As Frederick works toward a community-wide goal of reducing water demand by 10%, programs like Slow the Flow help residents save water, save money, and do their part to protect our long-term water supply. Sign up today to Slow the Flow!
Looking for even more ways to save water? Frederick water customers can also take advantage of Irrigation Controller, Appliance, and Lawn Replacement Rebates, along with Resource Central’s Garden In A Box and Slow the Flow programs. Together, these programs help residents save water, lower costs, and make every drop matter.

















By Mikki Hostert





In the book, join Kenidi and her family on an adventure in their home town of Anchors Away in Quartz Lake. Learn about doing the right thing, helping others, not littering, adapting to change, and working together in this fun, shy tale for the whole family.

By Michael & Karen Dittman
Do you feel “stuck” in life and don’t know how to achieve a real, lasting change? Are you tired of self-help gurus telling you what to do when they don’t really understand you as a unique individual? Would you appreciate a fresh perspective?
In riving In Grace, authors Karen and Michael Dittman describe what they call “ e Grace Cycle,” which taps into your inherent capacity for curiosity and connection as well as the power of God’s grace. is new approach helps to identify areas that call for change in our lives and make those changes in an integrated and lasting way.
Karen and Michael use real life stories and unexpected parallels between modern science and biblical wisdom to lay out principles that aid in making the process of transformation more accessible. ey show how you can attain a more ful lling life.
If you have been looking for insights that connect you to God and your own inner wisdom, riving In Grace is for you.






































































CVCR Election/Editorial Policy: The CVCR takes a non-biased 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.

Chainsaws & Chuckwagons draws crowds into Frederick throughout the competition as carvers turn giant logs into beautiful pieces of art! Supporting Chainsaws & Chuckwagons allows the regional event to ourish and provides artwork that stays in Frederick for years to come.
Where: Centennial Park 630 Eighth Street, Frederick, CO 80530
Cost: FREE to attend. Beverage, food, vendors, carvings onsite for purchase.
2026 marks the 14th year of our annual Chainsaws & Chuckwagons event! Only the most masterful chainsaw carvers can turn giant logs into beautiful works of art, and we’re bringing them to Frederick to compete against each other! e carving competition will take place July 15-18, 2026 with family entertainment and food trucks (Chuckwagons)! Hour-long quick carves will be auctioned o on the spot on select days of the event.
Don’t forget! is is an annual competition. Plan to bring the whole family, invite friends from across the nation, and go out to see the chainsaw wood carving and vote for your favorite masterpiece carving (the big ones).
2026 Chainsaw Carvers
Dustin Grant Gregory Hood
Joe Srholez Justin Driver
Matt Ounsworth Molly Wiste
Nate Hall Patrick Barrigar
Philip Kajemusuk
Where Are The Wood Carvings?
Are you wondering where the wood carvings were placed from Chainsaws & Chuckwagons 2025? Take the Art Map Carving Challenge to discover where Frederick’s latest masterpieces are! Head over to the Chainsaws & Chuckwagons webpage to check out the stunning photos from the event. en, put your skills to the test by using the Frederick Art in Public Places map to track down where these incredible carvings are now located. Take a virtual tour of all the amazing art pieces spread across the Town of Frederick and nd the wood carvings hidden throughout the community.

Photo of previous event participant and art from www.frederickco. gov/692/ chainsawschuckwagons


e Weld County Board of County Commissioners has adopted updates to Chapter 29 of the Weld County Code, modernizing building regulations for construction and development in unincorporated Weld County. e changes take e ect June 15, 2026. e updates adopt the latest versions of several nationally recognized building and safety codes, including the 2024 International Building Code, International Residential Code, International Mechanical Code, International Plumbing Code, International Energy Conservation Code, and other related standards.
“ e update is intended to improve clarity, streamline permitting and inspection processes, and ensure building regulations re ect current construction practices and safety standards,” said Weld County Commissioner and Commissioner Coordinator for the Department of Planning and Development Services, Lynette Peppler.
Key updates include:
Updating permit requirements and exemptions for accessory buildings, agricultural buildings, cargo containers, utility structures, and certain oil and gas equipment.
Establishing new standards and de nitions for manufactured homes, modular homes, mobile homes, and manufactured structures.
Requiring engineered foundation designs for most new structures while providing exceptions for certain additions, detached garages, and pole buildings.
Clarifying oodplain review requirements before construction can begin in designated ood hazard areas.
Adding procedures for re-permitting projects when permits expire before work is completed.
Requiring zoning compliance reviews before building permits are issued.
Incorporating Colorado’s model electricand solarready building requirements as part of the county’s energy code.
Residents, contractors, developers, and design professionals, review the updated requirements before beginning new construction projects.
View Weld County Code Chapter 29. For more information www.weld.gov/ Government/ Departments/ Planning-andDevelopmentServices/Building.

CVCR Policy: The CVCR takes a non-biased approach to Letters to the Editor. The CVCR prints letters, FREE, as space is available and only edits for spacing. We also print Election bios as space is available.







Torah Club: Unrolling the Scroll – A Year-Long Journey into the Heart of Scripture
Are you tired of surface-level Bible studies that leave you wanting more? Do you yearn to understand the very foundations of your faith and truly connect with the Jewish Messiah? Torah Club: Unrolling the Scroll o ers a challenging, yet profoundly rewarding, experience designed to transform your understanding of God’s Word.
is unique Messianic Jewish small group study, perfect for both Christians and Jews, provides a deep dive into the scriptures Jesus Himself read, studied, and taught. rough comprehensive lessons, engaging commentary, and stimulating discussion, you’ll explore:
e Bible of Jesus: Journey through the Torah (the rst ve books of the Hebrew Bible) from an authentic Jewish perspective, gaining crucial insights into the cultural and historical context that shaped Jesus’ world.
e Teaching of Jesus: Uncover the rich Old Testament foundations upon which the New Testament teachings are built, revealing the seamless continuity of God’s redemptive plan.
e Kingdom of Jesus: Comprehend the true, often misunderstood, message of Jesus about His coming Kingdom and the End of the Age, providing clarity and hope for our times.
Discipleship to Jesus: Move beyond head knowledge to practical application. Watch as these ancient truths reawaken your faith and empower you to live a life transformed by the Jewish Messiah.
Join our vibrant worldwide Torah Club community and connect with fellow disciples seeking biblical authenticity. Each week includes detailed lesson workbooks (also available in audio), weekly video introductions, and access to our private social media group for ongoing fellowship.
is transformative year-long study (54 lessons) begins in October. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain new insights into scripture and take your relationship with Jesus to a whole new level. Cost $80
For more information and to register, contact Robin at 720-382-3511.







Read Numbers 9:1-14 ose men said to him ‘though we are unclean because of the dead person, why are we restrained from presenting the o ering of the Lord at its appointed time among the sons of Israel?” (v7) e word used for restrained is Gara(gawrah), it is also used as reduced, diminished, deducted, to deprive. ese men feel like they are losing an opportunity to worship and partake of something beautiful. Passover is not an obligation, but a privilege. e second Passover is not for someone who chose not to attend the rst one, it is for those who cannot be ‘ t’ to bring an o ering. ese are the men who were carrying the body of Joseph as they left Egypt. ey are obedient men, who are missing out. Read 2 Timothy 3:16 now ask yourself, where is this same story in the Gospels? Matthew 27:57-60; John 19:38-42. We know that Jesus died on Passover, so that means that these two men were unable to celebrate that night with their families because they were ‘unclean because of a dead person’ (Numbers 9:6), neither could Jesus. We also know that Jesus was resurrected and stayed on earth for 40 days. is means that Jesus was on earth 30 days later when these two men could have the privilege of the Passover meal. Now, just for fun, do you think that Jesus attended that meal with them? Do you think He came and said “I created this meal for us, because I knew you would care for Me, ank you for honoring My body.” Although the second Passover doesn’t happen today, because there is no Temple and we are not sacri cing a lamb. We have Jesus as our lamb, He has given us a second chance, when the rst opportunity came for Passover we were not ready, we were unclean. But Jesus has given us a second chance, to prepare for Him, to clean up our lives, repent, live humbly before our God so we can ‘sup’ with Him for eternity.






Abundant Life Church | Pastor Jim Coleman 4380 CO-66 | Longmont 80504 970.535.0311 | www.alcworshipwarriors.org
New Horizons Christian Church 701 Carbondale St. | Dacono Pastor Rob Thomas 303.833.3013 | www. NHCC.LIFE
L.I.F.E. Fellowship Frederick 451 Oak Street | Frederick Pastor Brady Thornton 303.304.1159 | www.lifefrederick.org
Rocky Mountain Christian Church 5860 Majestic Street | Frederick Pastor Matt Cote 303.652.2211 | www.rmcc.org
Carbon Valley Church of Christ Thunder Valley K-8 in Frederick Pastor Clayton Johnson 720.438.5430 | www.carbonvalley.church
RINN United Methodist Church Rev. Lin Cheek, Pastor 3783 Bella Rosa Pkwy | Frederick 303.776.1578 | www.rinnumc.org
Destiny Church | Pastor Rob Rocca 307 S Fulton Avenue | Ft Lupton www.yourdestinychurch.org
Purpose Church | Pastor Brian Thompson 9993 Cty Rd 11 | Firestone 303.651.1640 | www.purpose.church
Guardian Angels Catholic Church 109 S. 3rd St. | Mead Rev. Ronald Cattany, KHS 970.535.0721 | www.meadangels.org



Frontier Church-Carbon Valley 701 Carbondale St. | Dacono Pastor Steve Osborn 720.418.8400 | www.frontierchurchcv.org
St. Theresa Catholic Church 5503 Bella Rosa Pkwy | Longmont Father Hernan Florez Albarracin 303.833.2966 | https://www.sttheresafred.org/
Calvary Chapel Carbon Valley Frederick, Colorado Pastor Joe Kitto 720.201.3337 | www.calvarycarbonvalley.church
Flatirons Church | Pastor Jim Burgen 355 W South Boulder Rd | Lafayette 303.664.5524 | www.flatironschurch.com
White Fields Community Church 2950 Colorful Ave. | Longmont Pastor Nick Cady 303.775.3485 | www.whitefieldschurch.com
Carbon Valley Lutheran Church 10916 Cimarron St (behind Ziggis) | Firestone 720.745.8590 | www.carbonchurch.com
Tri Town Baptist Church
420 Johnson Street | Frederick 303-833-2826 | www.tritownbaptist.com
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church
650 S. Park Ave. | Ft. Lupton, CO. 80621 303-857-6827 | www.mtcalvaryluth.org
Mead United Methodist Church 511 Palmer Ave | Mead 80542 970.535.4249 | Pastor Kay Marsh
St. Brigit Episcopal Church
110 Johnson Street | Frederick 720.208.0280 | www.stbrigit.org




Frederick seniors (60+) and people with special abilities can ride free with Via Mobility Services, a customer-focused transportation program that helps those unable to drive due to age, health, disability, or income stay connected and independent. Service runs Monday through Friday, 8 am to 3 pm, with rides available within Frederick, Firestone, Dacono, Boulder, Longmont, Louisville, and Lafayette (some routes are limited to speci c days). Registration is required before your rst ride. Contact a Via Mobility Specialist by calling 303-444-3043.
Get ready for one of the most enjoyable mornings of the year at Ute Creek Golf Course! is will be our 13th year hosting the tournament. Registration begins at 7:00 a.m., giving you time to grab a pastry and hit some practice balls before the 8:00 a.m. shotgun start.
After the tournament, join us for lunch and a fun- lled awards ceremony. Register today as an individual, team, and/or sponsor at: www.meadchambergolf.com Registration ends July 12.
July 4 - America’s Birthday Bash! Community Park at the Rec. Center. FREE to attend. Rides, live music with the Eric Golden Band, food trucks, beer garden, bounce houses and more.
July 10 - 11 - Citywide Yard Sales. https://www.fortluptonco.gov/556/Citywide-Yard-Sales
*See the full list of Community Events on line: https://www.fortluptonco.gov/172/ Special-Events
Join us for Strength Training Classes 3 times per week on Mondays & Fridays at 9:30am, and Wednesday evenings at 7pm. Get $10 O a 4 Session Personal Training Package! See website for details - https://beginlifeanew.com/group-fitness-classes/ or call 303.828.2856 for more info. Tracy Hites, NASM Certi ed Personal Trainer, Orthopedic & Arthritis Fitness Specialist, Corrective Exercise Specialist.


Missed spring planting season? Don’t worry! ere’s still plenty of time to save water and attract pollinators to your yard this year. Our partners at Resource Central have restocked the Garden In A Box online store! Get ready for the late summer season, with order pickups available in August and September. As Frederick continues to face drought conditions with Stage 1 Water Shortage guidance in place, late summer is a great time to invest in a waterwise landscape. Cooler air temperatures reduce water loss from evaporation, and warm soil promotes faster root growth. Plus, starter plants skip the hottest months of the year during establishment. at means new gardens can grow with less water while building the strong root systems they need to thrive next spring and beyond.

Get a discount as a Frederick water customer and take rst pick of late-season waterwise gardens!
Hello everyone Im Donna Calabrese with A Breeze Pet Friends. I provide in your home care for your dogs...cats...farm animals etc...I am fully Insured..Bonded and CPR certi ed..I have been in business for over 17 years. Give me a call of text 720 879 1423 and we can set up a free meet and greet .I will provide references etc...
New technology is allowing Weld County 911 dispatchers to help callers locate automated external de brillators (AEDs) in public places. e technology, known as 911-initiated AED response, launched earlier this year and is an accompanying piece to PulsePoint Respond — the smartphone app that debuted in Weld County in 2025, alerting CPR-trained individuals of those in public places experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.
“Getting help quickly is the number one priority in an emergency, and it’s important our 911 professionals have the resources available to provide that,” said Scott James, Weld County Commissioner Chair. “AED location technology adds to the tools our dispatchers have to help provide emergency response and generate more positive outcomes for those needing 911assistance.”
With 911-initiated AED response technology, the help dispatchers provide to callers in an emergency is strengthened, as they can provide instructions on where an AED device is located in public places. Allison eunissen, E-911 Program Manager of the Weld County Department of Public Safety Communications, said such instruction can be critical to callers as well as someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.
“Early CPR and AED deployment can signi cantly improve survival outcomes, but understandably during emergency situations, individuals often experience panic, confusion, and task xation, which can impair their ability to locate an AED,” eunissen said. “ is technology can help provide clarity to relieve some of that and increase the chances of someone receiving help.”
When someone calls 911 in a public place, dispatchers can locate AED information — including the address of nearby buildings where one is and the caller’s approximate distance from an AED, and other speci c instructions, provided there is one listed in the given search area. AED locations are registered in the PulsePoint-hosted National Emergency AED Registry, which has more than 212,000 registered nationwide. People can also add the location of AEDs to the registry using PulsePoint AED, a smartphone app in the Apple App and Google Play stores.
“From Text-to-911 in 2017, to the recent remodel of the WCRCC, to this technology, we want to provide the best 911 service possible,” said Jason Maxey, Weld County Commissioner Pro Tem and Coordinator of Public Safety Communications. “All of this, combined with the experience of our public safety communications personnel, can enhance emergency response to those who need it most.”



From Jennifer Norman, Strategic Leader Driving Business Development and Economic Growth. Stay tuned and stay engaged— Carbon Valley Chamber has more exciting plans ahead. 501 Walnut St. | Frederick | 303-833-5933




Children are fortunate if they have a father who is honest and does what is right. Proverbs 20:7 (GNT)








ere is still time to register your team for the upcoming Mead Chamber Golf Tournament, but spots are lling quickly! If you are interested in participating, please register online at www.meadchambergolf.com. e deadline to register is July 12, 2026.
We are seeking additional sponsors to help make this event a success. Sponsorship opportunities provide excellent visibility and a great way to support the local businesses. ank you to everyone who has already stepped up to support this event. We look forward to welcoming more teams and sponsors for a fun day of golf, networking, and community engagement.
ank you, Mead Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Area
ank You: We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended the Annual Dinner last evening at e Merc. We hope you enjoyed the opportunity to network and engage with fellow businesses. Attached is the list of events and activities planned by the Town of Mead and the Mead Area Chamber of Commerce for the year. We encourage you to consider sponsoring an event and/or donating your time to support one or more of these initiatives.
We truly appreciate your continued support. ank you for your time and commitment to the Mead Area Chamber of Commerce.
Mead Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Jay Stype (McKesson CoverMyMeds) – President
Jim Whitlow (Veteran Firearms & Training) – Treasurer
Susan Stype (McKesson CoverMyMeds) – Secretary
Stuart Adams (Irving Financial LTD ) – Director
Erik Bartush (Erik Bartush Insurance Agency Inc) – Director
Antonia Hanlon (LAWS, CO) – Director
Lori Hughes Hanson ( e Merc) – Director
Kevin Kildow (United Power) – Director
Laura Owen (Laura Owen, Realtor REMAX Momentum) – Director
Matt Owen (Laura Owen, Realtor REMAX Momentum) – Director
Scott Pyle (Renewal By Anderson) – Director
Winslow Taylor Jr. (Rocky Mountain Saloon) – Director
Lauren Well (Digital Results Consulting) – Director

































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 AND we will post as well in order to reach community.



Patrick Richard Forgash, 60, of Frederick, CO passed away on May 29, 2026. Pat was born in Piscataway, NJ on August 2, 1965. He is survived by his mother, Susan (Bogdanovitch) Webber of Montrose, PA, and proceeded in death by his wife, Christine Pierce Byrnes. Pat was an avid lover of music, an excellent drummer, and through the years played in many local bands. He spent most of his adult life in the plumbing trade and was a journeyman pipe tter. Pat was a lover of animals, and donations can be made to Longmont Humane Society in Pat’s honor.
A Memorial service to celebrate Pat’s life is being planned and more details will be posted when they become available.
Sunday July 19, 2026 at 6 pm | e Kress Cinema and Lounge | 817 8th Avenue in Greeley
Move it for Suicide Prevention! Join us for a fun- lled Sunday Social Movie Night featuring the beloved animated comedy Madagascar! Bring your friends, family, and neighbors for an evening of laughter, community, and a great cause. Purchase your tickets today at NorthRange.org/Events
All proceeds will bene t North Range Behavioral Health’s Suicide Education and Support Services. Come enjoy a cozy evening at the movies while making a meaningful di erence in our community. We can’t wait to see you there!
Every registration to this event will bring us closer to achieving our mission. Together, we can increase education opportunities about the risk of suicide in our community, as well as resources to help protect against suicide in a moment of crisis.

www.richardlambertfoundation.org/grief-support-groups

Today and every day I celebrate your life. I think of you always and love you forever. Our connection is unbreakable. You once wrote, “Love never dies.” I never knew how true that statement is, until faced with physically losing you. Although I cannot see you or hold you, I still feel your love and hear your words. I am incredibly grateful for this bond. I am so thankful to be your Mama! I hope you are jamming to your favorite tunes and dancing around the stars. We miss you, Sonshine and love you....to in nity ∞ and beyond! Please drive safely & Look for













As Independence Day approaches, the Town of Frederick and the Frederick Police Department are reminding residents to celebrate safely and responsibly. e easiest way to remember the rule is simple: If it goes up or blows up, it’s illegal in Frederick.
Residents are encouraged to be considerate of neighbors, including veterans, pets, and individuals with sensory sensitivities who may be a ected by loud noises.
To report reworks-related concerns:
Call 911 for res, injuries, property damage, or immediate safety threats.
Call Weld County Non-Emergency Dispatch at 720-652-4222 for illegal reworks, noise complaints, or other non-emergency concerns.






$50 taxable purchase would add about $0.50
$100 taxable purchase would add about $1
$200 taxable purchase would add about $2


When you call 988, you have three options:
Press 1 to connect with the Veteran Crisis Hotline
Press 2 to receive help in Spanish






























What would a proposed 1% transportation sales tax cost? For most households, the impact would be relatively small. A 1% sales tax equals about $1 for every $100 spent on taxable purchases made in the Town of Frederick. Here are a few examples:
Because this would be a sales tax, visitors, commuters, and non-residents who shop in Frederick would also help contribute. e proposed 1% transportation sales tax is projected to generate approximately $4 million annually to support transportation needs in Frederick.


When you live chat, call, or text 988, you’ll be connected with a trained specialist. ey’ll ask a few questions to learn more about your concerns. en they’ll listen to you and provide support. If needed, they’ll share relevant information and resources.
e third option which everyone else can use, is to remain on the line to connect with a local crisis center. You’ll also have the option to talk to a trained specialist with similar experiences. As of July 17, 2025, the national 988 system will streamline its call routing. All help seekers—including members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community who previously used the “Press 3” option—will continue to receive a rming, compassionate, and con dential support from trained specialists.


Local isn’t just where we are. It’s who we are. It’s neighbors helping neighbors and communities powered with a shared purpose
That’s The Power of Local.