The Lost Creek Guide May 19, 2021

Congratulations!

Class of 2021

Volume 14 • Edition 10

May 19, 2021

Delivering 15,000 copies to rural Adams, Morgan, and Weld Counties

“Truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains taken to bring it to light” George Washington “If we are to guard against ignorance and remain free, it is the responsibility of every American to be informed” Thomas Jefferson

United Power Announces Fast Charging Station in Keenesburg Charger Part of Co-op’s Growing EV Charging Network

Brighton, CO – United Power announced Tuesday its second electric vehicle charging station is now operational and available for public use. The new charging station is located at the Market Street Mart in Keenesburg, filling a gap in available charging options for rural electric vehicle owners and drivers between Brighton and Fort Morgan. Both cooperative charging stations are available on the ChargePoint network.

“United Power has made a commitment to providing innovative technologies that are beneficial for members,” said Energy Programs Director Joel Danford. “This installation not only helps us continue to fulfill that commitment but also keep pace with the emerging trend toward electric vehicles.”

The Keenesburg charging station is a 62.5 kW direct current (DC) fast charger available for anyone who has set up a ChargePoint account. Anyone can set up a ChargePoint account using the mobile app or an activation card available through the mail. The charging station was installed with the help of a grant from the Colorado Energy Office’s Charge Ahead Colorado program.

United Power has invested in several educational resources for members interested in electric vehicles. The cooperative launched its Choose EV web portal in June, providing a wealth of information about both electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. It also hosted a live webinar for National Drive EV Week to provide additional education and alleviate common concerns and hesitations about purchasing an electric vehicle.

The cooperative installed its first charging station at its Coal Creek office in 2019.

United Power leadership continues to look at the electric vehicle landscape and consider programs that will offer the best benefit for members, including additional charging locations in its growing network.

“We have made a consistent effort to invest in electric vehicle resources for members over the past couple years,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our goal is to provide the right opportunities and the right programs that make electric vehicles practical and accessible for more of our members, especially those who live in rural communities.”

United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. As one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, the utility will join the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters by the end of this summer. The 900 square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.

See Pictures on Page 24

13th Annual Memorial Day Celebration Heart of the Plains Cemetery Monday, May 31, 2021

Please join us in honoring our local living and fallen soldiers and remembering our departed loved ones at the 13th Annual Memorial Day Celebration at Heart of the Plains Cemetery in South Roggen on Monday, May 31, 2021. Coffee and doughnuts will be served at 8:30 a.m., at which time the living and deceased veterans will be registered for the roll call. The program will begin at 9:00 a.m. with patriotic music from the Keenesburg Community Choir and a flyover by Dan and Jason Schellenberg of Air Dusters, Inc. Master of Ceremony, Todd Denning, will welcome everyone and Pastor Brady Clevenger of Kiowa Creek Community Church will give the invocation. Mike and Maureen Lockette will offer the tribute and the roll call of veterans and Todd Denning will give the roll call of all buried at the cemetery. Additional songs will be performed by the Keenesburg Community Choir and also by Pastor Clevenger, and, in closing, American Legion Post #180 of Keenesburg will raise the American Flag, provide a rifle volley, the playing of Taps and the concluding Howitzer salute.

Heart of the Plains Cemetery is located at 38044 County Road 16, Roggen, CO. Bring your lawn chair and join in celebrating the true meaning of Memorial Day!

Wiggins Tigers Claim First Volleyball Championship in Program History

At The Broadmoor World Arena on Thursday night, the top-seeded Tigers won in three sets – 25-17, 25-17, 25-21 – against No. 3 Sedgwick County, another team seeking its first title, in the Class 2A state championship match.

While neither had won before, both Wiggins (17-2) and Sedgwick County (16-2) knocked off former championship teams to reach the finals. Wiggins swept No. 4 Fowler, a program with 10 titles to its credit. Sedgwick County came from behind to win 3-1 over defending champion No. 2 Denver Christian despite dropping the first set. Wiggins beat Yuma in the quarter finals 3-0 and Sedgewick County ousted Dayspring Christian 3-0; before moving into the semi finals.

The Wiggins Tigers were welcomed home from the State Championship Tournament on Friday with a parade down Main Street and a cheering crowd that lined the streets with posters, balloons, and blaring sirens!

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE:

Page 2: Way of the World Page 3: Michael Dell’s Graduation Speech Page 4: Weld County Sheriff’s Office Warning About Catalytic Converter Thefts Page 7-12: Weld Central High School Class of 2021 Page 12-15: Brush High School Class of 2021 Page 15-16: Wiggins High School Class of 2021 Page 17: Weldon Valley High School Class of 2021 Page 18: You have a Voice Page 20: Memorial Day Travel Abounds Page 24: History of Memorial Day

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Lost Creek Guide

May 19, 2021

– Way of the World –

by Bob Grand Graduation season is upon us. The 2020/2021 school year is ending and, unfortunately, it has been a tough one for many of our young people in many ways. Your youth is a particularly important period in the development process of you as an individual. Life should be an ongoing learning experience, full of those exciting and stimulating things that make up the basis for what you are to become. This last year has seen what appeared to be forever lock downs, online learning, an isolation from the rest of the world. You became even more addicted to your cell phone as that was the only way to stay in touch. Your interaction with your peers was highly artificial and did little to develop your social skills. But it is what it is.

Life continues. I would like to thank all the school districts and all our advertisers in helping to bring this year’s graduating class pictures to the paper. An effort to bring back a little normalization. Best wishes to all graduates as they begin a new chapter in their life.

This COVID 19 year will change how we do business in many areas. Remote learning efforts overall, did not receive good marks from many parents who asked what or how should we be educating our children. Add to this the many parents who are asking about all the new “wokeness” that seems to be overwhelming our current culture. Vivek Ramaswary has said “ Wokeness is no longer about challenging the system. Wokeness has become the system.” This is crazy. America is not perfect, as it is composed of people, who inherently are not perfect, but what we have in America is a framework that allows for people to strive to achieve their dreams and visions. We should always work to improve all the processes in place. That does not mean we should rip everything out and put it in a pile and burn it.

Some people recommend this as the only option. Has anybody asked are there some that benefit by ripping out the fiber of our culture? It would appear there are some that profit by it, both financially and politically.

People are beginning to notice that inflation is growing. For those of us that shop for food or buy gas we could have told you what was happening. In the past our government use to borrow money to handle extraordinary events, disasters, or wars. Today we borrow to pay the federal expenses. The percentage of federal budget dollars for social services is the highest in over sixty years. Can you ask has anybody measured the direct dollars that go to provide those services to the recipients as opposed to the total amount spent on the administration of those efforts. Providing service to the homeless in California is an awfully expensive effort, how much of that is direct aid to the individuals who need the assistance?

Who asks that question? Who asks that question in our state?

Our elected officials should. At our federal level we have allowed an elite class of bureaucrats and lobbyists to become the deciding factors on what our government should do to help us, by default, as we are told we are not competent to decide for ourselves. We are not educated enough or understand what is really best for us. The Center for Responsive Politics (web site: Opensecrets.org) reports that 427 former members of Congress are now lobbyists as well as over 5,400 former political staff members. You wonder why that six of the top wealthiest counties in America surround Washington D.C. We should be asking our locally elected officials what they are doing about this issue. Maybe we should ask them about supporting term limits. Maybe even asking them about following the law on what the 10th amendment calls for. Having government officials that are located locally are a little closer to the voting public as opposed to the remoteness of Washington D.C. That does mean that our local elected officials do have to be more responsive to the local electorate rather than issue platitudes and say “I am fighting the good fight in Washington, but it is so difficult, please understand I am doing the best I can” Well doing the best they can is not good enough. The policies in Washington today are creating a debt structure that our grandchildren’s grandchildren will be paying for and beyond.

We should press for term limits for elected officials and quite frankly for civil service employees as well. We have allowed a governmental bureaucracy to build up over the last hundred years that would be offensive to our founding fathers. A system that is not responsible to the people but only to its own survival and growth. This leads to establishing and maintaining a clear have and have nots society. Have you asked that in this last year of lockdowns how many government employees lost a paycheck? Maybe if some had, the lockdowns would not have been as long.

A little noticed release from the Attorney General of New York said that a study of the comments to the FCC on hearings in 2017 regarding the net neutral issue revealed that 18 million of the 22 million comments were from specific groups targeting defeating the efforts. When you consider that China has been reported to have over 2 million full time and 22 million part time internet influencers, how are opinion results influenced? What can you really believe?

The message is clear. Do not believe everything that the polls tell you.

There is ongoing talk about the breakup of the big tech companies. The upside for the big tech companies is, if they are forced to spin off their early purchases, they will realize a tremendous value created for them if these spinoffs go public. It is abundantly clear that

The Lost Creek Guide, Llc Bob Grand - Publisher 303-732-4080 publisher@lostcreekguide.com Our deadline is 7 working days before publication

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Letters to the Editor are encouraged. Letters may be edited for length, libelous, or inappropriate content. All letter submissions should include name, address, & phone number for verification purposes. Letters are published at the editor or publisher’s discretion. Opinions expressed in letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Lost Creek Guide or staff.

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the industry has not done a very commendable job in maintaining the public good. Again whose js it to provide oversight?

President Biden is considering tax increases that may impact the results of that. It is said he is considering a 39.6% top tax rate, limiting benefit of 1031 tax exchanges to $500,000 and treating capital gains as ordinary income for those making over $1,000,000 dollars.

He has claimed that families making under $400,000 would not be adversely affected.

Still a developing story.

Bottom line on the surface we are becoming two Americas. I do not believe that is true. I believe most Americans want to provide for their families and want everyone to be treated fairly. The problem is the politicians see no gain to that. Many thrive on divisive politics.

We should not reward these people by reelecting them.

Your thoughts and comments are always appreciated: publisher@lostcreekguide.com

LETTER TO EDITOR

Greenhouse Gases

President Biden says he want to reduce greenhouse gases by half. Is this really true or even possible? He is going to accomplish this by reducing CO2 Since 97% of greenhouse gases is water vapor this leaves 3% for all other greenhouse gases. Let us look at CO2, the life blood of the planet. At the moment we stand at 400 parts per million. Some say that we would raise the CO2 level to 600 parts per million if we would increase food production 30% and reduce water consumption by a third. If on the other hand if we cut CO2 by 50%, we would be down to 200 parts per million. At 150 parts per million most vegetation would die and we with it. In the last ice age, the numbers got to 183 parts per million. CO2 above 1000 parts per million have been recorded without any significant effect. While CO2 generates heat, it is not linear. If 100 parts per million produces one degree of temperature rise 200 parts per million do not necessarily produce two degrees of temperature rise. The more units the less heat each unit generates. In other words, CO2 reduction may not drastically impact the environment. :Follow the science” has become new buzz words. I guess we really need to understand what the science is saying with the data. As opposed to hearing what some would like to us to believe it says. Where is the truth as opposed to painted, biased opinion? As the late Democratic Senator from the State of New York, Patrick Moynihan famously said, “ You are entitled to your opinion, but you are not entitled to your own facts.” The American people need clarity not analysis blurred by bias and partisanship.

Correction: In a previous letter I stated that no one expects to leave a nursing home. This thought needs to be corrected as some nursing homes provide rehabilitation services where in fact the intent is get people up and about and back to their living their lives at home. I wanted to clarify that. I apologize for the misstatement.

The Family of the late James (Jim) H. Ries Sincerely thanks you for your Many thoughtful expressions of sympathy.

Your prayers, heartfelt words, generous gifts and warm presence has been a source of comfort, support, and strength Your kindness and caring are deeply appreciated Thank you.

Helen, Jim Jr./Ingrid, Mike/Laura and families

May 19, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

Michael Dell’s Graduation Speech

Michael Dell Chairman and CEO of Dell Computer As you start your journey, the first thing you should do is throw away that store-bought map and begin to draw your own.

I want to start by congratulating the Class of 2003 on your great success!

It’s an honor for me to be here. I know that many of you, both graduates and parents, have been waiting for this day for many years. I’m very proud to have my parents with me today, who have also been waiting for many years. Mom and Dad … I have some bad news for you. I may be on the stage, but I’m still not going home with a degree.

Though I left UT prior to the achievement that you’re all celebrating, this school has been a big part of my life in many ways: as a source of guidance and counsel for a young start-up company, as a constant resource of talent and support for a growing and established business, and as the foundation for a dream that this community has helped to build. I feel a tremendous connection with this university, and that’s why I’m so honored to be with you this evening.

I’d like to share my remarks tonight in memory of Dr. George Kozmetsky—a longtime friend of Dell, the University of Texas, and the Austin community. George was a visionary leader who recognized the potential in people and helped fuel their success with his wisdom and counsel. I was fortunate to be one of those people.

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to travel a less-traditional path. But I’ve managed to cover a fair amount of territory. There may be some lessons that I’ve learned that could help you in some small measure on your road ahead.

As you stand here tonight, you are at the starting point of a wonderful journey. But it’s a journey that can only begin with your decision to embark. We are a nation of accomplishment, and this ceremony is a great testament to that. But the unspoken requirement of a commencement is that you now must commence. There are countless contributions and achievements that never occurred, all due to a failure to begin.

Early in the history of Dell, we recognized that our path to greater success led us out of Austin, out of Texas, and even out of this country. So as a three-year-old company, with just 150 employees, we opened our first international operation in the UK … to great skepticism. The only true believers were the Dell team … and of course, our customers. Since then we’ve expanded to serve customers around the world. But it all started with that first decision to embark.

And now you’ve accomplished something great and honorable and important here at UT, and it’s time for you to move on to what’s next. But you must not let anything deter you from taking those first steps. You have an abundance of opportunities before you— but don’t spend so much time trying to choose the perfect opportunity, that you miss the right opportunity. Recognize that there will be failures, and acknowledge that there will be obstacles. But you will learn from your mistakes and the mistakes of others, for there is very little learning in success.

Fourteen years ago, Dell had the opportunity to learn two big lessons … the hard way.

One lesson was from a failure to manage our inventory properly, and the other was from a failure to listen to our customers when it came to developing new products. But we followed the advice that Dr. Kozmetsky gave me, and we fixed our problems as fast as we found them. Today, we set the standard for managing inventory and listening and responding to customers, and we owe those strengths to a willingness to try, and to fail, and to learn.

With the understanding that you will face tough times and amazing experiences, you must also commit to the adventure. Just have faith in the skills and the knowledge you’ve been blessed with and go. Because regrets are born of paths never taken.

Then, as you start your journey, the first thing you should do is throw away that storebought map and begin to draw your own. When Dell got started, it didn’t come with a manual on how to become number 1 in the world. We had to figure that out every step of the way. And with each new product and new market, the industry “experts” said we’d fail. Just a few short years ago, we announced plans to build powerful computers at the center of the Internet (“servers” for those of you from the engineering school.) Through the chorus of naysayers, we emerged as a world leader in servers, and we continue to gain momentum. And as always, we did it our way, with customers—not the experts—in mind.

You too have an advantage that you’re not encumbered by years of conventional thinking. You have a new and fresh perspective with which to view the world. Your time at this great university has helped sharpen your sense of discovery, and there is no better catalyst for success than curiosity.

It’s through curiosity and looking at opportunities in new ways that we’ve always mapped our path at Dell. Of course, we didn’t invent the concept of selling directly to customers, and we didn’t invent the personal computer … and we certainly didn’t invent the Internet.

But there’s always an opportunity to make a difference. There is always the chance to refine something, to eliminate unnecessary steps, or to look at something in a new light. You can stand on the shoulders of the giants who came before and see a little further. And sometimes there’s an opportunity to achieve a major breakthrough with a completely new idea that re-defines the subject.

But whether it’s evolution or revolution, there’s always a better way to build a computer, or map a genome, or liberate a country, or take a basketball team to the Final Four. Just work to understand the world around you. Read books. Read websites. Read other people.

Circle the pitfalls and highlight the opportunities. Then build a vision of how it could all be better and work like hell to make it happen. ...

As you walk the path you’ve chosen, remember that the road ahead is paved with relationships. I’ve enjoyed some great fortune, but none of it would have happened without the people who shared their wisdom, the hard work of the Dell team worldwide, and the love and support of my family and friends. Remember … there’s no such thing as a self-made success.

As Dell has grown over the years, many critics have asked me when I would finally step aside and let others run things. But the truth is, other people have been helping run things at Dell for a long time. The greatest mistake you can make is thinking you can do it all by yourself.

My most important role at Dell is growing and developing a strong team … and I give all of myself in that effort. I learned very early to surround myself with talented people who challenge convention, offer new ideas, and relentlessly drive for improvement. And to let those people thrive.

Try never to be the smartest person in the room. And if you are, I suggest you invite smarter people … or find a different room. In professional circles it’s called networking.

In organizations it’s called team building. And in life it’s called family, friends, and com-

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munity. We are all gifts to each other, and my own growth as a leader has shown me again and again that the most rewarding experiences come from my relationships.

And even as you keep traveling the road ahead, you must always remember where you came from. Each of us carries the dust and dreams of the places that helped shape us, and all of us can count our blessings that our path has taken us through Texas. ...

Finally, many times along the way you’re going to ask why. Why am I on this path?

What is it all about? You’ll ask yourself those questions in 10 years and in 20 years as often as you’re asking them now. Well … I have an answer for you. It’s all about winning.

That’s right, winning.

But I’m not talking about the most points, or toys, or market share. (Though I certainly like market share.) I’m talking about winning in a contest with your own potential. I’m talking about believing in yourself enough to become the best accountant, engineer, or teacher you can possibly be. I’m talking about never measuring your success based on the success of others – because you just might set the bar too low.

I was fortunate to find my passion early in life. I started as a UT biology major and soon realized that all of those stacks of computer parts in my room were trying to tell me something. (And my roommate had a few things to say as well.) So 19 years ago, when I was 19 years old, I started Dell in that dorm room right over there. And despite juggling my classes and a computer company … I just knew there had to be something easier than organic chemistry!

But many people find their passion later in life, and others never find it at all. And for some, their greatest passion is the search itself. But whether you’ve found your calling, or if you’re still searching, passion should be the fire that drives your life’s work.

The key is to listen to your heart and let it carry you in the direction of your dreams.

I’ve learned that it’s possible to set your sights high and achieve your dreams and do it with integrity, character, and love. And each day that you’re moving toward your dreams without compromising who you are, you’re winning. Look around you. At a school this size, with an international reputation for greatness, you might think of yourself as just a number. However, I recommend that you choose the number 1.

I’ve talked today about a journey, one that each of us travels. Often we travel together, as all of you have during your time at UT. But in the end, it’s your journey. Your path to travel and your responsibilities along the way. You are free to choose, and you are free to succeed. It just takes hard work and a dream. Most who finally leave this great university never imagine that they’re going to change the world. Yet every one of you will. How you change the world, is all up to you to decide.

I wish you all a great adventure on the road ahead.

Thank you.

Keene Craft Mercantile

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Lost Creek Guide

May 19, 2021

Weld County Sheriff’s Office warning about catalytic converter thefts

Auto, Home, Farm & Commercial

Agents Mark Kinnear Devon Kitchell 303-732-9700 20 S. Main Keenesburg, CO

The Weld County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about several recent reports of catalytic converter theft.

Since Jan. 1, deputies have responded to three reports of catalytic converter theft at various locations throughout the county. A total of 15 catalytic converters were stolen from vehicles in those three incidents. Deputies also are investigating an attempted catalytic converter theft case.

Thefts of catalytic converters have been on the rise nationwide for about the last year due to the high amount of precious metals contained in the devices, which are trading at record prices, according to a March 16 news release issued by the Catalytic Converter Theft Committee of the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators in cooperation with the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries. Many lower emission and hybrid vehicles feature catalytic converters, which is an Environmental Protection Agency exhaust emission control device.

Most catalytic converters don’t have serial numbers, making it difficult to prove one has been stolen. To deter this specific type of theft, the Weld County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging residents to uniquely identify their catalytic converters as recommended by the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators and the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries.

One option is to engrave a unique number, such as your vehicle’s VIN number, partial VIN or license plate, directly into the catalytic converter. Engravers can be purchased at most local hardware stores for about $20. Caution must be used to not damage the catalytic converter while etching.

The International Association of Auto Theft Investigators and the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries also recommend residents purchase a brightly-colored, high-temperature automotive exhaust spray paint – rated between 1,300 and 2,000 degrees – and apply a generous amount to - MORE Email: Public_information@co.weld.co.us Phone: 970-400-2802 your catalytic converter to make it stand out and deter thieves. The paint will also signal to law enforcement and metal recyclers that the catalytic converter in someone’s possession is likely stolen.

Additional ways to protect yourself from catalytic converter theft include: • Parking in a garage or secured parking area.

• Installing a bright motion sensor light to discourage potential thieves.

• Installing an anti-theft device.

• Always locking vehicle and setting the alarm.

• Fleet vehicles and minimally used vehicles should be parked in a secured, alarmed and well-lit yard.

Anyone with information regarding this or any other crime is asked to call the Weld County Sheriff’s Office at (970) 356-4015 or Northern Colorado Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers website at www.crimeshurt.com. Those submitting tips through Crime Stoppers that lead to the arrest and filing of charges on a suspect(s) may be eligible for a cash reward.

May 19, 2021

What In The World is EMS and What Does It Do?

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Lost Creek Guide

EMS Week 2021

Emergency Medical Services, or EMS, is the general term for ambulance response.

However, EMS is really a complicated system and so much more than a simple ambulance operation. At Mountain View Fire we operate a system known as Fire-Based EMS, which means that EMS is provided by the fire department. We have our own ambulances, EMTs, and paramedics and EMS is part of our larger concept of operations known as all-hazards response. Really all this means is that we respond to every kind of emergency you can imagine, and the EMS component is integral to the service we provide. In fact, EMS accounts for the largest majority of the calls for service we run; somewhere between 65%- 70% of our calls are for emergency medical situations.

Every Firefighter is medically trained to the EMT- Basic level and can work on the ambulance. Additionally, every ambulance and many fire engines are staffed with paramedics. Paramedics are the highest level of EMS practitioners in our system.

Paramedics are highly trained and skilled healthcare providers. Paramedics do many of the same skills that a doctor will do in the emergency department, but our job is to perform those skills in the field, often in austere conditions. The job of EMS is to be the first touchpoint in the healthcare continuum and set the rest of the patient care, and hospital, up for success in treating the patient.

A brief example would be a person having a heart attack. Our paramedics can identify and diagnose a heart attack and pinpoint the location in the patient’s heart where the heart attack is occurring. The paramedics begin treatment to support the vitals, manage the chest pain, administer medications that will help perfuse the coronary arteries, and declare a cardiac alert to the hospital. Based on the information the paramedics provide, the hospital will clear out an operating room called a ‘cath lab’ and prepare their team for our arrival. When EMS arrives with the patient, having completed as much prep work as possible such as starting IVs, giving medications, trending the heart rhythms with consecutive 12 lead EKGs etc., the emergency room doctor will briefly confirm our findings and the patient will be taken to the ‘cath lab’ where the cardiologist will catheterize the patient and open the blocked vessel, restoring normal heart function. The entire goal of this process is to reduce the ‘D2B’ or Door-ToBalloon time, which is how we describe making sure the patient gets catheterized as quickly as possible. A reduced ‘D2B’ time is directly correlated to better heart function and better outcomes. EMS exists as one very essential component in the overall care of patients.

Our EMS response covers every type of emergency you can imagine, firefighters and paramedics arrive at work never knowing what they might be called to. They can find themselves helping a patient trapped in a car after a car accident, fighting a structure fire, and helping a person having a heart attack all in the same day. It takes incredible diligence and education to operate at this level. Training and continuing education are a very important and ceaseless component of our daily lives. We strive for excellence to deliver the best possible service and patient care. EMS is a very challenging vocation, but that’s part of the reason we love what we do. There is nothing better than knowing you helped somebody during their time of need. Thank you for letting us serve you and happy EMS week!

Aims Community College to Offer Free Summer Tuition for In-district Residents

GREELEY, CO – May 5, 2021 – Aims Community College will offer free tuition opportunities this summer semester for residents who live within the Aims tax district. The College is offering free tuition to help the community recover from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The past year has been tough financially for many people, and our hope is to relieve some of the financial burden for current and new students as they work toward their educational goals,” said Aims CEO/President Dr. Leah L. Bornstein.

Since COVID-19 hit, hundreds of thousands of students around the country have “stopped out” (i.e. taken a pause in enrollment) for various reasons, including loss of income, lack of childcare, and other financial challenges. Community colleges, which serve a proportionally larger population of low-income students, have seen some of the sharpest enrollment declines.

Aims is using available institutional funds to cover the tuition costs. “It’s the right thing to do for our students and the community,” Bornstein said. “It’s so important for people to get back to pursuing an education and achieving the outcomes associated with it, including better employment opportunities and higher earning potential. This is an opportunity to help individuals build their own success stories, to help our local economy by building a robust and talented workforce, and to help our community become stronger as a whole.”

To learn more about free summer tuition opportunities, visit the Aims Community College website.

About Aims Community College Aims Community College is one of the most progressive two-year colleges in Colorado.

Founded more than 50 years ago in Greeley, Aims has since established locations in Fort Lupton, Loveland and Windsor. Curriculum now includes 4,000 day, evening, weekend and online courses annually in more than 200 degree and certificate programs. Aims Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Aims Community College is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution. www.aims.edu

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Lost Creek Guide

May 19, 2021

Easy Ways to Improve Your Diet (Part 1)

Laura M. Ferguson, PA | SCL Health Heart & Vascular Institute – Brighton Being mindful about what you eat is not just about losing weight. Nourishing our bodies with healthy and nutritious foods can improve blood sugar, lower blood pressure, help digestion, give us energy to get through our day, improve sleep, and enhance mood and emotional well-being. When we are thoughtful about what types of foods we eat, many other aspects of our health will benefit.

However, making big, drastic changes to our diets is overwhelming, and often unsustainable. Have you ever made a New Year’s resolution to “eat healthy” and by January 5th you’re completely discouraged and unmotivated? Think of the story of the tortoise and the hare: slow and steady work is more productive than sprinting and getting burned out. When making lifestyle changes, studies show that attempting small, manageable, incremental improvements in our diets is the best way to achieve long-lasting successes. Here are a few straightforward ways to make positive adjustments to your diet.

Make a goal to drink 60 ounces of water every day.

Measure out 60oz in the morning, and make sure you’ve finished it by bedtime. By consciously increasing your water intake you will almost automatically decrease your consumption of sugary and alcoholic drinks.

Hide the salt shaker. While it’s challenging to eliminate ALL salt from your diet it’s very easy to take the salt shaker off the dinner table. This is an easy way to decrease salt consumption without having to read nutrition labels or calculate sodium content. At first the food might taste bland but our tongues and brains will adjust to the lower amounts of salt in 6-8 weeks.

Add fruit to breakfast. This is one of my favorite nutrition “rules” because it is so uncomplicated. Adding one serving of fruit to your breakfast is simple and easy. Add a handful of berries to your cereal, a piece of melon with your toast, or even an apple in the car on the way to work. It doesn’t have to be complicated but adding those vitamins and nutrients to your diet right off the bat is a great jumpstart to your day. Soon it will become habit and in one step you’ve made a difference in the nutrition you’re giving yourself first thing in the morning.

Add a vegetable to lunch. Again- so easy to remember! One serving of a vegetable at lunch is a quick way to ensure you are getting nutritious foods throughout the day. Try it for a few weeks and before long it will become a habit.

Pick one tip to focus on for a few weeks and it will become habit- then move on to the next one. By the end of the year you will have made incredible progress! If you slip up, don’t get discouraged. Try again the next day. Look for Part 2 of this series in the next edition of the Lost Creek Guide.

Congratulations 2021 Graduates ©2020 Premier Farm Credit. All Rights Reserved. Equal Opportunity Lender serving all eligible markets.

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May 19, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

Weld Central High School Graduating Class of 2021

Page 7

BRENDA ALARCON

CATERI ALEGRIA UGALDE

EVELYN ALVA CANO

JACOB AMATO

DYLAN ANDERSON

ROBERTO BANUELOS-GONZALEZ

PEYTON BARCLAY

BRADEN BAUMGARTNER

TANNER BAUMGARTNER

GARRET BECKER

DANIEL BEGLER

DAYTON BERTRAM

BREANNA BLAKE

AISLYN BONILLA

BRYCEN BOWMAN

SHADE BROKAW

REBEKAH BROWN

JACQUELINE BURROLA VILLA

EMILY CALDERON

ASHLEY CAMACHO CASAS

JULIE CAMARENA

KYLEIGH CARDILLO

EDUARDO CASAVANTES

JOSE CASTANEDA MAGALLANES

JAYRA CASTRO

HAPPY

graduation from all of us at the Lost Creek Guide

Make a differenceLive the dream Relish the adventure Stand Strong!

Page 8

Lost Creek Guide

May 19, 2021

Weld Central High School Graduating Class of 2021

JAVIER CASTRO

SLOANE CERVANTES

DAISY CHACON

JA’LAYA CHANDLER

DIEGO CHAVEZ

ALEXANDRA CID

JACQUELINE CISNEROS

PRYCE CLEMENSON

PAMELA COSTILLA

DARRELL CROCHET

TYLER CROOKS

ALONDRA CRUZ NAVEJAS

CLAIRE DANIEL

BEAUX DAUGHERTY

JOSE DELGADO

HALEIGH DEUBACH

BROOKE DOWDY

JEREMIAH DREHER

KAITLYN ECKHARDT

HAYES EDEN

Trina Fresquez

HUNTER ELDRED

DAMIEN ELIZALDE

TED ESPIINOSA

RUTH ESPINOZA

ALHELI ESTRELLA CISNEROS

Congratulations to all Graduates from all of us at

60 Main St.

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303-732-4243

May 19, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

Weld Central High School Graduating Class of 2021

Page 9

KENDALL FORD

JOSE VINCENT FRANCO

BRITTANY GARCIA

DAMARIS GARCIA

MARCOS GARCIA

ARMANDO GOMEZ-ARCEO

GABRIEL GOMEZ-ARCEO

GEORGE GRAYBILL

BLAKE GUDKA

SAVANNAH HALBERT

HENEYRITH HERRERA RUIZ

ELRICH HERU-RA-HA

KYLIE HOWARD

DANIEL HYBERG

ASHLEY IMEL

REBEKAH JEFFERY

GENE JONES

HAILEY JONES

DESTYNE KALCEVIC

BRIAN KANMORE

RYAN LANGDON

ARIETH LARA DIAZ

JOANNA LEAL CERVANTES

CESAR LEDEZMA

ARIANNA LOBATO

Best Wishes to 2021 Graduates from all of us at

Keene Market

80 South Main Street

Keenesburg

303-732-4405

Page 10

Lost Creek Guide

May 19, 2021

Weld Central High School Graduating Class of 2021

EMMA LOCKHART

KORIAMA LOPEZ

RONNY LOPEZ

GAGE LOWRY

VICTORIA MACIAS-CHAVEZ

ARIANA MADERA RAMIREZ

ADRIAN MARTINEZ ARRIAGA

AURIANNA MCARTHUR

CASSANDRA MCNELEY

CASSIDY MCQUISTON

ALEXANDER MENDEZ

JOHN MOLINA HOLGUIN

RYLEE MORGAN

JOSE MOTA JR.

JUAN MUNOZ

CODY MUSE

JESSE NEAL

KATRINA NETHERLAND

GERALD QUINN NULSEN

MADELYNN OLIVAS

DESTINY PAIZ

ALEJANDRO PALOMARES-GONZALEZ

CASSIDY PARK

SYDNIE PEVLER

LONDON PHILLIPS

BRENDA PORTILLO-ACOSTA

KATLYN POWLEY

JAZMIN RAMIREZ ESCOBAR

ANGEL RAMIREZ SANCHEZ

MAYA PRICE

May 19, 2021

Page 11

Lost Creek Guide

Weld Central High School Graduating Class of 2021

ANNABELL RAMOS

ISSAHIA RODRIGUEZ

EDWIN RODRIGUEZ

KAITLYN ROSLING

LINDSAY SACK

SADA SACRY

CHARLES SALAZAR

IVAN SALAZAR

ENRIQUE SANCHEZ

JONATHAN SANCHEZ LARIOS

STEPHANIE SANTILLAN

CARLY SCHELLENBERG

KAYLEE SELLERS

ALONDRA SILVA

KAYDEE SIMS

ELIZABETH SPAYD

JAYDEN STACK

CHRISTOPHER STANSBERRY

CAMERON SUPPES

BENJAMIN SWIETER

R OGGEN T ELEPHONE

Page 12

Lost Creek Guide

May 19, 2021

Weld Central High School Graduating Class of 2021

ANGELICA TALAMANTES

JOSHUA THOMAS

HARLEY THOMPSON

MADISON THORNE

RAYNA TRUJILLO

RUMALDO TRUJILLO

TOBY TWEEDY

LAYTON UTECHT

ISABELLA VASQUEZ

EMILY WEED

TONYA WESTMORELAND

DEVYN YAGER

TIMOTHY YOUNGER

NATASHA ZIMBELMAN

Brush High School Graduating Class of 2021

KYLEI ABREO

TYLER BARFUSS

SUSANA BELTRAN

ARLY BENITEZ

JULIAN CABRAL

YVAN CAMPOS

JOSH CANTU

AALIYAH CARRERA

TRAEGER COOK

ALEXIS CORRAL

AUSTIN CURTIS

DARRIAN DARDANES

NICOLE DEMONT

CASSIDY DICK

JACKSON DUNKER

May 19, 2021

Page 13

Lost Creek Guide

Brush High School Graduating Class of 2021

ANGELA FLECKENSTEINER

JONAH GLEASON

ANNA FORD

MAYRA ESCALANTE GONZALEZ

ALICIA GARCIA

MYISA GONZALEZ

YARELI GUADARRAMA

CRYSTAL HALLAHAN

JANELLE HART

SERVANDO HERRERA

JAMES HERTNEKY

HALEY HINOJOS

JORDYN GARCIA

GREGORY GARVICK

DAISY GRADO

TADUM GRIGGS

JADE HERGENRETER

NICOLE HOWARD

RAUL ROBLES HERNANDEZ

ELLIANA HUEFTE

Park Hill Dental 100 S. Main Keenesburg www.ParkHillDental.com

Take ACTION For Your Tooth and Gum Health.

Dr. Thomas Croghan has been serving Southeast Weld county with pride since 2005. We are a full-service general dental office where your dental needs are addressed in a welcoming, professional setting.

We look forward to meeting you and caring for your oral health!

Page 14

Lost Creek Guide

May 19, 2021

Brush High School Graduating Class of 2021

CAMILLE JOHNSON

SUSAN KEYBORNE

KENZIE KRAICH

TANEYA KUNKEL

REILEY LEAKE

KEEGAN LINK

NATHALY LOPEZ

OMAR LOPEZ

ROY LOZANO

FERNANDO LUNA

URIEL MADERA

IVONNE MARTINEZ

KAITLYN MELLOTT

CARLA MONTES

KEELYN MORRIS

GILBERTO OCHOA-MENDEZ

OLIVIA ODLE

ADRIAN FRANCISCO PABLO

JAYLENE PEREZ

WENDY QUINTERO

SHANE REITZ

HAILEY RIDDLE

TORY RIDDLE

BROOKE RULE

ISRAEL SANCHEZ

OSCAR SANCHEZ

ANECIA SANCHEZ

BRADY SANCHEZ

JOSE RAMIREZ SIMENTAL

LETICIA SORIA

Way to go Class of 2021

May 19, 2021

Page 15

Lost Creek Guide

Brush High School Graduating Class of 2021

NADIA TORRES

EMMA STONE

ACCALIA VILLARREAL

MADELINE TURNER

HANNAH VONDY

KALAI UNREIN

HUNTER WASHBURN

DALIZABETH VAZQUEZ

DAVON WOLF

Wiggins High School Graduating Class of 2021

JAYLA ALEXANDER

MARICARMEN ARENIVAR

YADIRA BARRON RIOS

ERIKA BECKER

EMILY BORREGO

PAIGE BOYER

LUKAS CARPENTER

OLIVIA DINIS

MICHELLE ENRIQUEZ

ANTONIO JOSE GARCIA

BREANNE GILLILAND

LAUREN HAGEN

DAWN HATCHER

MAKAYLA HENSON

MALACHI HILLS

ALEX HISHINUMA

AUSTIN HUWA

COLE KENNEDY

LOGAN KERR

ANDREW LIVELY

Page 16

Lost Creek Guide

Wiggins High School Graduating Class of 2021

May 19, 2021

DESTINY MARQUEZ

JACOB MCCULLOUGH

MARY MEDSKER

JAZMIN MENDEZ

JACQUELINE MENDEZ ALFARO

JOHN D. NELSON, JR.

KAYLEE POGO-FELTS

KYLE RIPPE

JESUS ROJAS NARVAEZ

BRAYDON RYAN

CHRISTOPHER SANDOVAL, JR

KARA SCHMIDT

KATHRYN SCHOONVELD

KELLY SPRADLIN

GLENDY TARANGO YANEZ

WE ARE PROUD OF ALL OF YOU!

JAYDE TRUSTY

MYRA VICCHRILLI

HOPE VOSHELL

JENNA WHITE

AUGUSTUS WYATT

MELISSA ZAMBRANO

We are Proud of You Class of 2021

May 19, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

Weldon Valley School Graduating Class of 2021

KORTNEY COBBLEY

CODY COVELLI

KAYTLYN KEATING

WESLEY SHAVER

KAITLYN GALLEGOS

BREONNA KOCH

PEDRO VELAZQUEZ-FLORES

COY GROVES

Page 17

AUTUMN HORN

LILI RAMOS

DESTANY VUITTONET

Best Wishes to the Graduates of 2021 from Careers World Wide!

Since 1913

Page 18

Lost Creek Guide

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May 19, 2021

You Have a Voice: Grassroots Efforts

After 32 years in the Rural Electric Cooperative business, I genuinely can say that I see the value of a grassroots effort. Why? Because I watch other Electric Cooperatives do this effectively. We are a small coop on the eastern plains of Colorado with not much representation in our state and federal policies. If we can somehow come together in the efforts that first brought electricity to rural communities, we could make a difference. We have shared values and thoughts that are many times different from those of our urban friends. We need a chance to be at the table to discuss how specific issues will affect the affordable and reliable electricity we have become accustomed to knowing.

Now to what is “Grassroots”? Grassroots movements are associated with bottom-up rather than top-down decision-making and are sometimes considered more natural or spontaneous than more traditional power structures.

Grassroots Campaigns, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating and supporting grassroots movements at our local level, says that grassroots movements build organizations, raise awareness, build name recognition, win campaigns, and deepen political participation. Grassroots movements work toward these and other goals via strategies focusing on local involvement in either local or national politics.

Being informed on such matters that will affect our fundamental interests are foremost, and coming up with easy ways to send our message will be crucial for our future existence.

It is our opportunity to help craft the direction we want to go in our future. I am looking forward to growing a robust grassroots effort to benefit Morgan County Rural Electric Association for years to come.

We have tried to make this as easy as possible, knowing that everyone’s time is valuable, so if you could, sign up by simply going to MCREA’s website and following the easy form we have in place. There’s never any commitment, but when we need our association members to participate in an action, we’ll call upon you to forward pre-written emails or letters to lawmakers and commission members.

It’s that simple to keep these critical communication lines open to help our representatives promote legislation favorable to our local community and MCREA. David Frick, MCREA General Manager City of Fort Morgan Announces New Economic Development Specialist Fort Morgan, Colorado - Who says history doesn’t repeat itself? Sandy SchneiderEngle joined the City of Fort Morgan staff on April 19 as the Economic Development Specialist. She is responsible for developing and implementing the economic development strategic plan and serves as the City’s point of contact for economic development matters including business attraction efforts, entrepreneurship growth opportunities, and existing business retention and expansion.

This isn’t the first time Schneider-Engle served as a municipal economic development professional. She spent more than eight years at the City of Fort Morgan as the City Progress Director in the 1990s where she worked on such projects as the establishment of a film commission office that aided in the production of “Dumb & Dumber”; the occupancy of the City’s industrial park with several clients including Leprino Foods and Barry E. Walter Sr. manufacturing; and the attainment of several grants to make improvements to community infrastructure.

“I am excited to collaborate with our community of economic development stakeholders on cultivating a vibrant local economy – and addressing the questions of why someone would want to live, work, or visit here,” Schneider-Engle said. “Fort Morgan is ‘home’ to me, and I am elated at the opportunity to, once again, help shape its future and improve its well-being.”

Schneider-Engle describes her job as encompassing everything from encouraging entrepreneurship, diversifying jobs, and building the tax base, to facilitating collaboration and promoting activities that spur economic activity.

Current projects under way include preparation for the Thursday Night Live summer event series that kicks off June 3 with a free concert in City Park by The Jazz Section, and the completion of several grant funded projects including the installation of sail shades and outdoor seating in the downtown area. She is also working with several clients who are interested in development in the city’s CentrePointe Village sites on the east side of the city adjacent to the city’s new fieldhouse complex.

“With municipally owned and operated utilities, shovel-ready commercial, retail, and industrial sites, and a location on Interstate 76 near Denver, I believe that Fort Morgan is poised for positive growth in the next few years,” Schneider-Engle added.

Schneider-Engle had a 19-year long career as a healthcare marketing director where she executed digital and traditional communication campaigns, recruited medical professionals, and performed various community outreach initiatives, such as an annual health fair. She also worked with the hospital’s nonprofit association to raise money for various projects and construction initiatives.

Prior to her new role, she also spent 18 months in a joint position with the Fort Morgan Area Chamber of Commerce and Morgan Community College as the MCC Director of Business Development and Chamber Executive Director, allowing her the opportunity to work with the business community on continuing education classes and workshops in addition to the promoting of commercial and retail activity.

The economic development professional graduated from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in communication. She is currently completing an associate’s degree in multimedia/graphic design from Morgan Community College.

Schneider-Engle can be reached at 970-542-3924 or sandy.engle@cityoffortmorgan. com. Her office is located at 110 Main Street in Fort Morgan.

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FORT MORGAN – Asphalt milling and paving on U.S. Highway 34 will start next week in Fort Morgan. The work zone is limited to a one-mile stretch of US 34, locally known as West Platte Avenue, between Acco Road and Main Street (Colorado Highway 52).

West Platte Avenue will remain open during resurfacing work. Travelers should expect daily lane closures and brief traffic holds at intersections and driveways while equipment passes through to ensure product quality and safe operations. Temporary rough riding surfaces and uneven lanes may be present until paving is complete. All paving work and final lane striping is expected to be finished by Memorial Day. Resurfacing work is limited to the section of highway where the City of Fort Morgan recently completed water line upgrades. “We invested heavily in the US 34 corridor last construction season by repairing four bridges, resurfacing 24 lane-miles with new asphalt and reconstructing five blocks in downtown Brush. We’re looking forward to completing work in Fort Morgan. This is the last section to be resurfaced along the 14-mile corridor between Interstate 76 and U.S. Highway 6,” said CDOT regional Transportation Director Heather Paddock.

Other remaining work planned on US 34 this season includes mailbox post replacements, guardrail installation at several structures and repairs to Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway crossings east of the City of Brush. All construction activities are expected to be complete this season.

Construction schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change. Weekly updates are available on the project web page.

Stay Informed For additional information about this project, contact the project team.

Project hotline: 970-427-4005 Project email: i76us34@workzone.info Project web page: https://www.codot.gov/projects/i-76-us-34-fort-morgan-brush-resurfacing Construction alerts: Text CONSTRUCT to 21000 Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts, anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include: Road conditions and travel information: www.COtrip.org Project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COalerts

YEAR-ROUND

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West Platte Avenue (US 34) paving starts next week in Fort Morgan

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Brighton, Colo.—United Power President and CEO Mark A. Gabriel testified before the House Energy and Environment Committee in favor of Senate Bill 21-072 requiring all utilities to join organized wholesale markets.

“The West is on the precipice of great change in electric generation and transmission,” Gabriel said, “And the movement to cleaner sources of generation will require a full market.” He told the committee that while the move to energy imbalance services such as those provided by the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) in its Western Energy Imbalance Service (WEIS) and California Independent System Operator’s Energy Imbalance Service (EIM) is a good start, neither provides the benefit of a true regional transmission organization with day-ahead markets.

“Markets provide two functions, acting as the air traffic controller and facilitating financial transactions,” Gabriel explained. “They function best when crossing time and weather zones.”

Named to lead United Power in March, Gabriel was the Administrator and Chief Executive Officer of the Western Area Power Administration.

He moved WAPA into the full market in SPP for states in the Upper Great Plains in 2015 that resulted in a $145 million savings for its utility customers. In February, WAPA moved its Rocky Mountain Region and Colorado River Storage Project Regions into the SPP WEIS imbalance Service and in March the Sierra Nevada Region into the CALISO EIM. “Flexibility in generation supply is best supported by fully operational markets,” he said. In addition, Gabriel pointed out that the Bill’s timeframe of 2030 may be overtaken by events.

The United Power Board of Directors voted to support SB21-072 when it was introduced earlier this year by primary sponsor Senator Chris Hansen. SB-72 is a lengthy, complex bill which creates statutory language to require investor-owned utilities to join a Regional Transmission Organization (RTO) by 2030, expedites electric transmission line approval processes at the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and creates the Colorado Electric Transmission Authority (CETA) to assist in financing construction or purchase of transmission projects.

After passing through two committee hearings and floor votes in the Senate, SB 21-072 passed in the House Energy and Environment Committee on a 11-2 vote. Audio of Mark A. Gabriel’s testimony can be found here. Mr. Gabriel speaks at 4:57 pm. ________________________________________ United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. As one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, the utility will join the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters by the end of this summer. The 900 square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. For more information about the cooperative, visit www. unitedpower.com or follow them on social media Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.

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United Power Leadership Testifies in Support of Regional Transmission Legislation

Page 19

Lost Creek Guide

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May 19, 2021

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CAPITAL CREDITS ARE COMING SOON Cooperative members share in the ownership, construction, maintenance and prosperity of their electric utility, and that investment is referred to as capital credits. Capital credits represent our members’ ownership in United Power and are one of the most unique and rewarding benefits of being a member of an electric cooperative.

For more information and frequently asked questions about capital credits visit www.unitedpower.com/capital-credits.

HOW MUCH IS YOUR REFUND? Refund amounts are based on length of membership and amount of power used during the period retired. The longer you are a members, the larger your refund becomes.

Page 20

The National Day of Prayer

Lost Creek Guide

A celebration of the National Day of Prayer was held on Thursday evening, May 6th, in Schey Park in Keenesburg. Destination Ministries was joined by the Community United Methodist Church, and presented the 2021 National Theme drawn from 2 Corinthians 3:17: “Lord, Pour Out Your Love, Life and Liberty.”

With approximately 45 people in attendance, each speaker spoke from their own perspective, with each speaker presenting one of the 7 Centers of Influence: Business, Church, Education, Family, Government, Media, and the Military. One by one, the speakers came forward to present their topics, which included introductory remarks, Scripture selections from the Bible, and a prayer.

The following are the speakers who spoke on each of the 7 Centers of Influence.

Business – Tara Dreilling, Owner of Simpler Times Church – Pastor Linda Meyer and Pastor Perry Wm. Bell Education – Pastor Linda Meyer, Community United Methodist Church Family – James Johnson Government – Mayor Ken Gfeller Media – Greg Beasley Military – Pastor Perry Wm. Bell, Destination Ministries Music was provided by Matthew Perry, and we sang “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America.”

We look forward to having this event in the same location next year, and would hope that more churches and the local communities would join us!

May 19, 2021

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, volunteers are still needed at organizations across Weld County

Bill and Jan Eastin made the most of a year that many people would like to forget. The Greeley couple positively impacted thousands of people in 2020 by making masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

After reading a book about the history of the flu in the United States and Europe, the Eastins put their mask-making skills to good use by providing 1,200 masks to United Way of Weld County (UWWC) for distribution. Their first set of masks went to North Range Behavioral Health in April 2020. When North Range advertised their need for homemade masks in the Greeley Tribune, the Eastins volunteered their time and made a difference.

With a small group of seamstresses and the help of several quilters and friends who knew someone with unused material, they found fabric, T-shirts and thread for their project.

“Our small group decided to make masks for the highest risk groups in our community – the assisted living and nursing home facilities,” the Eastins said.

“Also at that time, there were not enough PPE for many of the employees at the hospital. We then made them a priority as well.”

The Eastins recalled that every time they thought they’d run out of something, someone would come through with whatever was needed. All told, more than 3,300 masks – at no charge – were distributed in the community thanks to the volunteering efforts of the Eastins and their friends.

April was National Volunteer Month, but really, every month could be reserved for volunteers. Volunteer hours were down at UWWC in 2020 due to events being canceled and quarantine measures taking hold because of the pandemic. The Eastins, though, found their way of volunteering and helping the community right out of their home.

In 2019-2020, UWWC had 840 volunteers totaling 7,715 hours of volunteer time. In 2018-2019, UWWC had 1,321 volunteers totaling 9,485 hours of volunteer time. So you could see the dent that the pandemic made in the number of volunteers and volunteer time from one year to the next.

As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to remember that volunteers are still needed at organizations across Weld County. Whether it be in person at the Weld Food Bank, Guadalupe Shelter or UWWC Housing Navigation Center, or as a delivery driver for homebound community members through Meals on Wheels or 60+ ride, the opportunities to volunteer are available to you. Even in your own home completing Service to Go projects, crochet or sewing projects like the Eastins did in 2020 or lending your marketing/design talents to a local nonprofit of choice, the chances to volunteer are endless.A quote from boxing legend and activist Muhammad Ali sums up the importance and value of volunteers - “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.”

Volunteering helps support programs that strive to make Weld County a healthier, stronger, more connected community. Volunteering is a critical component to the success of the type of community we should want to live in. Meaningful community solutions require more than money, programs or policies. The kind of real and lasting change that benefits everyone is only possible when people from all walks of life are willing to roll up their sleeves and go where their time and talent are most needed.

The UWWC Connect volunteer webpage is a great resource to find volunteer opportunities year-round. With 89 agency profiles and 98 volunteer opportunities listed, the volunteer webpage features opportunities to volunteer with nonprofits, government agencies, schools and other agencies/programs throughout Weld County. Please visit www. unitedway.org/volunteer to find a volunteer opportunity for you.

Nicole Quinn is the volunteer coordinator and a donor engagement manager for United Way of Weld County.

May 19, 2021

Forecast: Memorial Day Travel Rebounds to 37 Million+

Lost Creek Guide

Nearly 700,000 Coloradans traveling in surge over last year.

DENVER (May 11, 2021) - Amid increasing consumer confidence and the continued roll-out of COVID-19 vaccinations, AAA projects a substantial rebound in the number of Americans planning to travel this Memorial Day holiday weekend. More than 37 million people are expected to travel 50 miles or more between May 27 and May 31. That’s a 60 percent increase from last year, when only 23 million traveled - the lowest volume on record since AAA began recording in 2000.

All told, AAA Colorado projects nearly 692,000 Coloradans will contribute to the ranks of these travelers. An overwhelming majority, 642,000, will take to the roads.

“A year’s worth of pent-up demand is being unleashed this summer, as Americans anticipate the kick-off to the season,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA - The Auto Club Group.

“Travel bookings with AAA - The Auto Club Group have surged recently, setting the stage for what should be a busy holiday weekend and an exciting summer.”

“For many people, this will be their first summer vacation in two years, and things will look a little different,” Haas continued. “Because of the pandemic, many theme parks and hotels are running at reduced capacity, and some services are not currently available. Cruise lines are also accepting bookings, but their policies may vary based on whether you’re vaccinated. That’s why we encourage travelers to plan ahead and work with a trusted travel advisor, to ensure they get the best advice and value for their vacation.”

Surges in AAA Travel Bookings to Colorado AAA Travel, the nation’s largest leisure travel agency, has seen a surge in online traffic and bookings on AAA.com, especially for hotels and car rentals, as we head into the summer travel season.

AAA booking data suggest that domestic travel and road trips remain the biggest drivers of travel recovery in the near term.

While Orlando and Las Vegas are the top Memorial Day destinations, Colorado is well-represented in AAA data - with Denver coming in as the nation’s fourth-most popular road trip destination and Colorado Springs the fifth-most popular spot for hotel, airfare, and car rental bookings.

“The secret’s out: With world-class outdoor recreation and the robust travel infrastructure to back it up, Colorado is the place to be this summer,” said Skyler McKinley, regional director of public affairs for AAA. “That’s great news for our economy, even if it means dealing with higher gas prices and a little extra traffic for a while.”

Huge Increase in Air Travel, but Most Travelers Hitting the Road With 34 million Americans planning Memorial Day road trips, auto travel is expected to increase 52 percent over 2020. More than nine in ten memorial day travelers will drive to their destinations, as many Americans continue to substitute road trips for travel via planes, trains, and other modes of transportation.

Still, after 2020’s historically low air travel volume, this Memorial Day will see nearly 2.5 million Americans boarding airplanes - nearly six times (+577%) more than last year. Air travel is down only 23 percent over 2019, suggesting a sustained and growing increase in travel confidence. AAA reminds air travelers that masks are required in all airports and on board.

In contrast, just 237,000 Americans are expected to travel by other modes, including bus and train, this Memorial Day. This is the second-lowest volume on record, higher only than the 185,000 who traveled in 2020. In 2021, travel via these modes will be 88 percent below 2019 levels.

Drivers Beware: Worst Times to Hit the Road INRIX predicts drivers will encounter the longest travel delays before the holiday weekend, particularly during the afternoons on Thursday, May 27 and Friday, May 28. Drivers in several major U.S. metros, including Denver, could experience double the travel times compared to a normal trip, while Atlanta, Houston and New York drivers could see more than three times the delay on the busiest corridors.

“Although vehicle trips are down as much as 40 percent in some metros, afternoon congestion is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels. With the increase of holiday travelers to the typical afternoon commute, drivers in the larger metros should expect longer delays heading into the holiday weekend,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst, INRIX. “Travelers should anticipate delays to start on Wednesday and continue through Memorial Day. Our advice to drivers is to avoid the evening commute times and plan alternate routes.”

Prepare for Higher Gas Prices The 34 million Americans traveling by car this Memorial Day should anticipate gas prices to be at their most expensive since 2014, with the national average likely cresting the $3 per gallon mark.

Colorado’s average pump price for a gallon of unleaded currently sits at $3.01, and will continue to rise as demand builds ahead of the Memorial Day holiday. Prices are currently highest in Glenwood Springs, at $3.31 per gallon, and cheapest in Boulder-Longmont, at $2.94.

“It’s true that nobody likes to pay more for gas,” McKinley said. “Still, rising prices tend to signal an improving economy, and our research has found that they don’t deter motorists from hitting the roads, especially during Memorial Day. As gas prices rise, travelers tend to look for more free activities or eat out less, but they’ll still take their planned trips especially in 2021, after a year of being cooped up inside.”

AAA to Rescue more than 468,000 Travelers AAA expects to rescue more than 468,000 Americans at the roadside during the Memorial Day travel period, the vast majority of whom will be stranded due to a preventable breakdown. Before hitting the road, plan your route in advance and ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready.

A good mechanic can help. Find one you can trust at AAA.com/Repair.

To get placed directly in a rescue queue without going through dispatch, AAA members should visit AAA.com/Service or through the AAA mobile app. Otherwise, call or text: 1-800-AAA-HELP. “COVID Ain’t Over” Although it has become safer to travel, the travel environment is more complex than ever due to the dynamic public health environment. AAA has resources to help at AAA.com/Travel. Planning ahead is more important than in past years for hotel rooms, rental cars, and even restaurant reservations.

AAA notes that the actual number of holiday travelers could fluctuate as we approach Memorial Day. If there is an increase in reported cases attributed to new COVID-19 variants, some people may decide to stay home, while others may note the strong progress in vaccinations and make last-minute decisions to travel. AAA recommends working with a travel agent, who can help if you need to make any last-minute changes to travel plans as well as explore travel insurance options and help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and comfort level this summer.

AAA urges those who choose to travel this year to exercise caution and take measures to protect themselves and others as the pandemic continues.

- Obituary -

Page 21

JO ANN BOWEN Jo Ann Bowen, 83 of Hudson passed away on January 6, 2021, at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Lakewood after a short battle with cancer. She was born in Pueblo, Co on June 5, 1937.

Jo lived most of her life in Colorado. She spent the last twelve years living in Hudson volunteering at the Hudson Library, Fort Lupton Rec. Center, as a Foster Care Provider for Lifeline Puppy Rescue, and Weld County Mobile Food Truck.

She was preceded in death by her husband Vernon I. Bowen. Survivors include her two brothers, Jack Knafelc (Shirley) and Joseph Greening (Connie), four sons; Terry DeNiro (Pam), Mike DeNiro (Julie), Pat DeNiro (Kim), Jon DeNiro (Nynne), and two stepsons; Phillip Bowen (Maria) and Vernon Bowen (Pam), 19 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held in her honor. Information will be announced at a later time.

Hoyt Cemetery Memorial Day Service

Monday, May 31, 2021 at 9:00 a.m.

Refreshments to follow at the Hoyt Community Center

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Lost Creek Guide

Wagoneers News

May 19, 2021

Monday, April 26, 2021

Wyatt Wilcox The Wagoneers 4-H club met on Monday, April 26.

Unfinished Business Discussed: Manuals for Projects – Manuals that were ordered are ready for members to pick up.

However, some projects no longer will have print issues: • Model Rocketry Unites 1 & 2 • Leathercraft Unit 1, 3-7 • Cake Decorating Units 1 – 3 Animal ID Days for Sheep and Goats: • Monday, May 3, 4 – 6 PM at Island Grove Park in Greely • Tuesday, May 4, 4 – 6 PM at Island Grove Park in Greely • Wednesday, May 5, 4 – 6 PM at Briggsdale School FFA Shop • Thursday, May 6, 4 – 6 PM, at Southeast Weld County Fairgrounds in Keenesburg Swine Exhibitors – All exhibitors will have to send in their 3 photos of each nominated pig to show at the fair by Thursday, May 6 at 5 PM. Horse ID Forms – Horse ID forms must be submitted through 4-H Online this year by May 1.

Animal Care and Housing Forms – Members who are working with animals on projects will have to have completed, and submit a signed and approved Animal Care and Housing Form to the Extension Office. The form is provided in two ways.

1.

Filled out online at 4-H Online or the 4-H Website if you have your animal at your residence.

2.

Or printed from the 4-H Website and handwritten if you do not have your animal at your residence for special circumstances.

Fairgrounds Clean Up Day – The weekends of May 15 & 16, and June 12 and 13 are available for volunteers to sign up and help keep the Southeast Weld County Fairgrounds nice and clean.

New Business Discussed Congratulations to Elizabeth Spayd for being awarded a scholarship from the Weld County 4-H Foundation.

May 19, 2021

Page 23

Lost Creek Guide

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Page 24

Lost Creek Guide

History of Memorial Day

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2021 will occur on Monday, May 31.

Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades.

Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.

Early Observances of Memorial Day The Civil War, which ended in the spring of 1865, claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S. history and required the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries.

By the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers.

Did you know? Each year on Memorial Day a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.

It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. And some records show that one of the earliest Memorial Day commemoration was organized by a group of freed slaves in Charleston, South Carolina less than a month after the Confederacy surrendered in 1865. Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. Waterloo—which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866—was chosen because it hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed.

The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Civil War soldiers buried there.

Many Northern states held similar commemorative events and reprised the tradition in subsequent years; by 1890 each one had made Decoration Day an official state holiday.

Southern states, on the other hand, continued to honor their dead on separate days until after World War I. Confederate Memorial Day is still celebrated in several states and will be on Sunday, April 26, 2020 in Florida; on Monday, April 27, 2020 in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi and on May 11, 2020, in parts of South Carolina. The practice of commemorating the Confederacy became even more controversial after massacre at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston in 2015

May 19, 2021

Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War II, The Vietnam War, The Korean War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968 Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees; the change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.

Memorial Day Traditions Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C. Americans also observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. Some people wear a red poppy in remembrance of those fallen in war—a tradition that began with a World War I poem. On a less somber note, many people take weekend trips or throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because Memorial Day weekend—the long weekend comprising the Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day and Memorial Day itself—unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

United Power Announces Fast Charging Station in Keenesburg Charger Part of Co-op’s Growing EV Charging Network

United Power President and CEO Mark Gabriel using the system.

Parents Register your Children for the Hudson and Keenesburg Library Summer Reading Programs!

Tails and Tales Youth Summer Reading Adventure runs May 30th - August 8th.

Actual Ribbon Cutting at Market Street Mart new Electric Vehicle Charging Station in Keenesburg.

Register in person at the Hudson or Keenesburg libraries, through the Beanstack Tracker App, on our website: www.thehudsonpubliclibrary.org.

Earn prizes, get a t-shirt and spend your summer reading books and going on adventures.

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Ursala Morgan, Chairman of the United Power Board and President and CEO Mark Gabriel opening remarks.

Parkinig Spot for new EV Charging Location at Market Street Mart in Keenesburg.