Stars fill stage for ‘Raices’ flamenco show
Mixed academic recovery across school districts, with persistent achievement gaps
BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
e latest release of standardized test score results provide a glimpse into how well students across the metro area are doing. e data shows they’re still rebounding from the e ects of the pandemic, and many students are struggling with the basics, including reading and math.
cultures, we also have the human muscle to do it.
ere is a plethora of institutions, organizations and groups that prepare for months to show a glimpse of their best cultural assets during this month, via dances, visual art, food and celebration.
No doubt that celebrating the Hispanic Heritage Month in Denver is an enriching experience. Not only do we have a diversity of Hispanic
With that said, it might catch some by surprise the fact that Spanish amenco art is a cornerstone of “Hispanidad.” In fact, the term “Hispanic” comes from the Latin word hispanicus, which relates to Hispania, the an-
cient name Romans gave to the Iberian Peninsula, what is today Spain. is word was rst used in the English language in the 1500s, under this context. It was used later in the United States to describe individuals from a Spaniard descent who settled in the Southwest. And after 1970, it became a Census term, the box you check to identify of Spanishspeaking descent, even if you don’t speak the language.
For instance, the Colorado Measures of Academic Success, or CMAS, results show only a third of students at Adams Five Star Schools meet grade-level standards in math. And, a little more than half of third through eighth-graders in Je erson County Schools achieved grade level or above in reading scores.
In both examples, the scores are a little higher than the year before, a common trend in the tests, which measure pro ciency in districts across Colorado.
Growth scores are calculated on a 100-point scale based on their grade level. Numbers greater than 50 indicate that struggling students below grade level are gaining ground and catching up with their peers. e district results across metroarea counties, including Adams 12, Cherry Creek, Douglas County, Elizabeth and Je erson County, are mixed. Some saw steady growth from last year and others, decline.
All but Adams 12 Five Star Schools surpassed the state’s average prociency rates in the test’s English Language Arts (ELA) and math portions. To date, Douglas County remains the only metro-area district to have surpassed reading and math levels seen before the pandemic.
Maria Vazquez, a Spanish immigrant from Seville, Spain, founded Flamenco Denver after she moved to Denver in 2002.
PHOTO BY AMANDA TIPTON PHOTOGRAPHY
BRIEFS
Legal self-help clinic
e Access to Justice Committee hosts a free, legal self-help clinic from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on the rst Tuesday of every month. e program is for those without legal representation and needing help navigating through legal issues.
Volunteer attorneys are available to discuss family law, civil litigation, property, and probate law. Call 303-405-3298 and ask for the Legal Self-Help Clinic at least 24 hours before.
Registration opens for Image Summit Youth Leadership Conference
CCPD Introduces Online Crime Reporting Form
e Commerce City Police Department has a new online reporting tool allowing the public to report some non-emergency crimes and receive a police report immediately without speaking to a police o cer.
Community members can now conveniently report incidents that do not require immediate ofcer intervention, such as fraud, identity theft, lost property, theft/ shoplifting (less than $2,000), and vandalism.
rands for veterans who cannot get out, provide handyperson services, help administer veteran and family resource guide inventory in local libraries, and veterans to be trained to become quali ed listeners. Call 720-600-0860.
Mental health
Community Reach Center offers in-person intake assessments from 8 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays at the Brighton Learning and Resource Campus, 1850 E. Egbert St. in Brighton. Call the Community Reach Center at 303-853-3500.
Brighton Youth Services will host the Image Summit Youth Leadership Conference on Nov. 5 & 6 at Riverdale Regional Park, 755 Henderson Road. e Summit is open to Colorado youth in grades 5 - 12. is two-day summit will feature keynote speakers, engaging workshops ranging from art to diversity, an opportunity to interact with elected o cials from across the state, an American Ninja Warrior obstacle course, a food truck alley (all food included with registration fee), networking and more. e goal of the youth conference is to empower youth, build con dence, teach leadership, and inspire young leaders to use their voices to positively impact their communities. e cost to attend is $25. Registration is now available at brightonimagesummit.org and early registration is recommended.
e new form is online now in English and Spanish at c3gov. com/ReportACrime. Residents should always call 911 for emergencies.
‘Taking No Chances’
e 17th Judicial District Attorney’s O ce and e Link, a community resource and assessment center in ornton, o er free, 10week programs to families of Adams County teenagers to help develop personal and interpersonal drug-resistance skills. Sessions are from 5:30 to 6;30 p.m. Wednesdays. Call 720-292-2811.
Walk with a doc
Alliance Business Assistance Center grants available e Alliance Business Assistance Center is excited to announce that 2024 business grants are now available to support your business endeavors. Sta at the center can help identify grants that align with business goals and industry, providing guidance through the application process, ensuring that they have the best chance of success and providing other resources for local businesses. To get started, visit our website at https://businessinthornton.com/ local-business/small-businesssupport-programs/business-nancial-assistance.
Platte Valley Medical Center’s cardiac rehab team and Walk With A Doc will host monthly walks with Dr. Christopher Cannon, an interventional cardiologist at Brighton Heart and Vascular Institute. is is a walking program for everyone interested in a healthier lifestyle. After a few minutes to learn about a current health topic from the doctor, spend the rest of the hour enjoying a healthy walk and a fun conversation. It’s a great way to get out, get active, and enjoy all the bene ts of walking.
Legal self-help clinic
For walk-in intake, bring an ID and insurance information. For those who would prefer to complete the intake forms and schedule an appointment, the intake forms are available online at www. communityreachcenter.org. ere will be a short screening for ulike symptoms before entering the center to ensure safety and wellness for everyone.
Anyone feeling unsafe or suicidal should call Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-8255, text 38255, or visit the Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUC) Center at 2551 W. 84th Ave., Westminster.
Workforce & Business Center workshops e Adams County Workforce & Business Center is hosting multiple workshops throughout November.
Visit the center’s website, https://adcogov.org/workforcebusiness-center, for a full class schedule, which includes contact information for each workshop. e center has locations in Aurora, in Westminter’sPete Mirelez Human Services Center, 11860 N. Pecos St and at 36 South 18th Ave. in Brighton.
Food distribution
e Access to Justice Committee hosts a free, legal self-help clinic from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on the rst Tuesday of every month. e program is for those without legal representation and needing help navigating through legal issues.
Colorado Creates provides 125 grants to arts organizations across the state Gov. Jared Polis and the Colorado Creative Industries Division of the Colorado O ce of Economic Development and International Trade announced that 125 arts organizations across 33 Colorado counties have been awarded $909,000 in Colorado Creates grants. ese grants will help organizations and communities create art and cultural activities by providing general operating support. Grantees receive funding for two years, totaling $1,818,000 in awards over the funding period. Research from the National Endowment for the Arts suggests that rural counties with arts organizations have experienced increased population growth and higher household incomes than rural counties without performing arts organizations.
Volunteer attorneys are available to discuss family law, civil litigation, property, and probate law. Call 303-405-3298 and ask for the Legal Self-Help Clinic at least 24 hours before.
Boards/commissions’ openings
Commerce City has openings for several boards and commissions, including the city’s cultural council, the housing authority, and the Derby Review Board.
Visit https://www.c3gov.com/ Home/Components/Form/Form /70316b05422c448492c51da0f0e0 fd86/ to sign up.
Help for vets
Warm Line up and running Community Reach Center is o ering a Warm Line (303-2806602) for those who want to talk to mental health professionals about anxiety, lack of sleep, and strained relationships, among other topics. e professionals can facilitate referrals to other programs for assistance.
A press statement said the Line is not for crisis intervention.
ose feeling unsafe or suicidal should call Colorado Crisis Services (1-844-493-8255), text 38255, or visit the Behavioral Urgent Care Center, 2551 W. 84th Ave., Westminster.
Also, the center’s COVID-19 Heroes Program is set up to assist healthcare workers during the pandemic. ose who live or work in Adams County can receive up to six free counseling sessions. Use the Warm Line for support and free counseling.
source guide inventory in local libraries, and veterans to be trained to become quali ed listeners. Visit quali edlisteners.org/volunteerapp and ll out the form, or call 720-600-0860.
27J Schools have free grab-andgo meals for youngsters up to age 18. Drive-by or walk up between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at Vikan Middle School, 879 Jessup St., Overland Trail Middle School, 455 N. 19th Ave., and at immig Elementary School, 11453 Oswego St. Food for Hope is the sponsor. St. Augustine food pantry, 129 S. Sixth Ave., o ers food Tuesdays and ursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for Brighton residents who live between Quebec St. and Cavanaugh Road and between Weld County Road 4 1/2 and 96th Ave. Chapel Hill Church, 10 Chapel Hill Drive, Brighton, hands out one box of food per family on the second and fourth Wednesdays from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and alternating Saturdays at 9:30 a.m.
Calvary Chapel Brighton Food Pantry, 103 E. Bridge St., Brighton. Open from 4 to 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month.
Community Baptist Church Food Pantry, 15559 Weld County Road 2, Brighton. Open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays.
Adams County internships available
Are you interested in learning more about working for local government? Adams County currently has paid internships available. Opportunities include a cook ($16.48/hour) and classroom aide ($15.62/hour) for Head Start, an IT intern ($17/hour) for the Sheri ’s O ce, and a Healthy Farmers Market intern ($17/hour).
ese opportunities are available through the Workforce & Business Center. ose interested should work with their case manager or call 720.523.6898 to get established with a case manager.
Quali ed Listeners, a veteran and family resource hub serving northern Colorado and southern Wyoming, has many power chairs, scooters, and electric wheelchairs available.
Brighton’s community intake location is at 1850 E. Egbert St., on the second oor. It’s open from 8 a.m. to noon Tuesdays.
Volunteers needed
To nd the closest facility to you, visit www.va.gov/ nd-locations. Quali ed Listeners also need volunteers to drive veterans to and from appointments, run er-
Quali ed Listeners needs volunteers to drive veterans to and from appointments, run errands for veterans who cannot get out, provide handyperson services, help administer veteran and family re-
FEMA Releases “Disaster Mind” Game
An educational game designed to teach high school-aged youth about decision-making during disasters is now available online at FEMA.gov.
Disaster Mind was developed by FEMA Region 8 in coordination with i rive Games and can be accessed on any computer-based web browser.
Disaster Mind challenges and encourages participants to make critical decisions in the face of three simulated disaster scenarios: a ood, wild re, and blizzard. Players receive information and tools to help them navigate the journey and lead others to safety. Complicating their quest, a mysterious guide weaves twists and turns along the way.
e game can be used by educators and emergency managers as an educational tool to supplement existing disaster readiness or preparedness training. Disaster Mind is Section 508 compliant and does not require players to register or provide any personally identi able information.
ADVERTISEMENT
Some Thoughts on Keeping Your Death From Being an Undue Burden on Your Heirs
Seniors don’t want to be a burden to their children while they’re alive, and there are ways to reduce their burden after they die.
If you’ve ever served as a “personal representative” (aka, “executor”) for a person who has passed, you know that it can be a long and burdensome process. There are actions that you can take now so that handling your estate is less burdensome.
First, of course, you need to write a will, and make sure that it can be found upon your death. You can find law firms that specialize in estate planning which can help you with composing a will plus other tools such as a medical power of attorney, living will, living trust, and, for real estate, a beneficiary deed.
gave unused bicycles to the Optimist Club’s Bicycle Recycle Program, and took several car loads of clothes, dishes, silverware, small appliances and you-name-it to Goodwill. Since I was our own Realtor in the transaction, I cleverly inserted in the contract of sale that “the seller can leave anything he doesn’t want,” which included countless tools and other stuff in our garage. That was in addition to selling most of our furniture to the buyer for $10,000 paid by check outside of closing.
An unbelievable sense of lightness and peace of mind filled Rita and me from the experience of disposing of so much stuff that would have only been a burden to our heirs if we had died while living in that home.
Is a Heat Pump Right for You? Here Is Some Info.
More and more builders and homeowners are looking at the possibility of switching from gas forced air to heat pumps for heating homes and domestic hot water, especially with the huge tax credits offered under the Inflation Reduction Act.
The following is adapted from an article I saw on CustomBuilderOnline.com
How do heat pumps work?
A heat pump moves heat, it doesn’t generate heat.
A furnace combusts fuel — oil, gas, or propane — and that fuel heats a metal component called a heat exchanger. A fan blows air over it, and that’s how a home heats up, explains Matt Rusteika of the Building Decarbonization Coalition.
pump,” says Rusteika.
How much does switching to a heat pump cost?
With rebate incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), switching to a heat pump could be more attainable.
Thanks to the IRA, heat pumps are now affordable for low-income households and we’re seeing a lot of heat pumps in those homes now, says Unger. Rebates under the IRA are as high as $8,000 for the heat pumps and $6,500 for the wiring to support them, he says.
Searching for “estate planning” on the internet produces an abundance of easy-to-understand advice from multiple trust-worthy websites ranging from wikipedia.com to fidelity.com to the American Bar Association, nerdwallet.com and the National Council on Aging. One website I clicked that had excellent and thorough advice was investopedia.com
A good piece of advice I read was to add the person you designate as your personal representative to your bank accounts, the title of your vehicles, and to your credit card accounts, so those are not frozen and unavailable to him or her after your death. And you might want to dispose of excess property that is otherwise cluttering up your basement and garage.
When Rita and I downsized from our 4,000-sq.-ft. home to an 1,100-sq.-ft. apartment, we did our heirs a great favor, because doing so required us to dispose of an immense amount of stuff that was cluttering up our basement. We
Notice that I did not advise you to add your heirs to the title of your house. If you do, your heirs will not only inherit the house, they will also inherit your capital gain when they go so sell it. The better strategy is to create a beneficiary deed naming your heir(s) as the beneficiary. A beneficiary deed, also known as a transfer-on-death (TOD) deed, is a legal document that allows a property owner to transfer ownership of their real estate to a designated beneficiary after they die. The deed is effective upon the owner's death and bypasses the probate process. This approach, like leaving the property to your heirs in your will, allows your heirs to avoid the capital gain on your home, because its value is “stepped up” to the value of the home at the time of your death. If they sell the home soon, they will probably owe zero in capital gains tax.
For more estate planning advice, contact a lawyer specializing in that field. I can recommend one if you’d like.
List With Me & Get Totally Free Local Moving
It has long been my practice — and that of some of my broker associates — that if you hire me to list your current home and to purchase your replacement home, I will not only reduce my commission for selling your current home but provide totally free local moving using our company moving truck (similar to a large U-Haul) and our own moving personnel. We also provide free moving boxes and packing paper/bubble wrap.
using traditional moving companies, you know that our totally free moving can save you thousands of dollars, even for a move within the metro area.
In heat pumps, there is a compressor which moves a liquid/gas through copper pipe coils located outside and inside the home, operating on two laws of physics: gases get hotter under pressure, and heat moves from hot to cold. Compared to combustion, the heat pump doesn’t burn fuel, rather, it uses energy from the pump and compressor to harvest heat and move it.
“Heat goes into the coil, gets pumped through the compressor, the compressor puts it under pressure so it’s very hot. It goes inside, air blows over the inside coil, deposits the heat in the house, comes back outside, and starts the cycle again,” explains Rusteika. During cooling operation, the cycle is merely reversed, pumping heat out of the house.
What are the negatives of heat pumps?
Heat pump efficiency drops as temperatures get colder, explains Russell Unger, principal at Rocky Mountain Institute. Early heat pumps were not efficient at very cold outdoor temperatures, and some contractors are unaware of the improvement in efficiency that is now common. Nowadays there are cold-weather heat pumps which can draw heat out of the air even at subfreezing outdoor temperatures, says Unger. He points to the state of Maine, which has very cold winters but has the highest percentage of homes heated with heat pumps.
In 2019, Maine Governor Janet Mills announced a goal to install 100,000 heat pumps in the state by 2025. That goal was achieved in July 2023, and now Gov. Mills has a new goal of 175,000 more by 2027.
“When you look for a heat pump, you need to look for a climate-appropriate heat
When a homeowner needs to replace an existing heating system, the wisest move may be to install a heat pump. The Department of Energy estimates that efficient electric heat pumps can save families approximately $500 to $1,000 annually
Heat pumps are being installed in great numbers in Maine because the marginal cost of switching to a heat pump is pretty small, explains Unger. Where there is a need for both heating and cooling, a heat pump provides a complete solution. The heat pump replaces two separate components — a furnace and A/C compressor — with a single component using the same ducts. And if a homeowner installs solar, earning additional IRA tax credits, there’s great synergy, since the heat pump uses only electricity and uses it very efficiently. How popular are heat pumps?
Revised building codes have increased the adoption of heat pumps within the last few years. Still, a lot of HVAC contractors remain skeptical. Many of them tried older heat pumps and it didn’t work as well in cold climates, so getting them to revisit the option has proven difficult, but needs to be encouraged, says Unger.
Heat pumps have outpaced furnace sales every month for the past two years, in addition to solar generation increasing about 40% in the last 20 years, and battery sales up 70% in the last 10 years,
“There’s a big shift happening right now. To remain competitive, to get ahead of what customers want, this is something for contractors to start paying attention to,” says Unger.
In the posting of this article online at http://RealEstateToday.substack.com, I have added hyperlinks to Maine’s experience and the rebates available under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Just pack and unpack. We will even pick up your flattened boxes and packing materials after you unpack! If you have ever priced moving costs
I bought our first moving truck in 2004. We replaced it with a newer truck (above) in 2016. I calculate that we’ve saved clients hundreds of thousands of dollars in moving costs over the years.
Health Foundation survey considers challenges
Diving deeper into health, equity with survey creators
BY ROSSANA LONGO BETTER ROSSANA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in a big way, La Ciudad took the opportunity to dive deep into the results of the Colorado Health Foundation’s PULSE survey. It reveals surprising data about the concerns and challenges facing Hispanic and Latino communities, which now make up 22% of Colorado’s total population.
A publication of
Call first: 143 S. 2nd Pl., Brighton, CO 80601
Mailing Address:
750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110
Phone: 303-566-4100
Web: CommerceCitySentinel.com
To subscribe call 303-566-4100
LINDA SHAPLEY
Director of Editorial & Audience lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com
SCOTT TAYLOR
Metro North Editor staylor@coloradocommunitymedia.com
BELEN WARD Community Editor bward@coloradocommunitymedia.com
TERESA ALEXIS
Marketing Consultant Classified Sales talexis@coloradocommunitymedia.com
LINDSAY NICOLETTI
Operations/ Circulation Manager lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com
BUSINESS INQUIRIES
For advertiser or vendor questions, please email our business department at accounting@ coloradocommunitymedia.com
Columnists & Guest Commentaries
Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Standard Blade.
We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone. Email letters to staylor@coloradocommunitymedia.com
Deadline Tues. for the following week’s paper.
Commerce City Sentinel Express (USPS 3886)
A legal newspaper of general circulation in Commerce City, Colorado, Commerce City Sentinel Express is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media, 143 S. 2nd Pl., Brighton CO 80601.
PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID AT Commerce City and additional mailing o ces.
POSTMASTER: Send address change to: Commerce City Sentinel Express, 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225, Englewood, CO 80110
e survey results show that the Hispanic community is mostly concerned with issues related to immigration, crime, the high cost of living, health and, most notably, housing, which has increasingly become an unattainable dream for many hardworking residents of the state, especially for Latinos.
Last week, the Colorado Health Foundation invited a group of Hispanic media outlets, journalists and community leaders to a presentation. We had the opportunity to chat with one of the presenters, portfolio director Maribel Cifuentes, to discuss the results of this recent survey and dive into the critical issues affecting us.
is interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Colorado Community Media:
Based on the results of the Colorado Health Foundation’s PULSE survey, what would you say are the biggest concerns of the Hispanic community living in Colorado?
Maribel Cifuentes: We are very concerned about the cost of living in Colorado. It’s something we hear in all the communities we visit as representatives of the Colorado Health Foundation. Our mission is to really engage with all these concerns from the various communities in Colorado, and speci cally the Hispanic community, as we prioritize communities of color and those with fewer resources and privileges.
We care deeply about the concerns of Hispanics in Colorado, and we know perfectly well that the cost of living and housing are interconnected. For us, this is central to our mission because we understand that housing is the platform for health.
erefore, the cost of housing and the overall cost of living in Colorado are fundamental concerns. We are taking these perspectives into account to guide and inform the investments the foundation makes across the state.
CCM: (According to the survey,) between 95% and 99% of our population is deeply worried about whether their children will be able to stay in Colorado, as buying a home and accessing what we call the American Dream is becoming impossible for our young people.
Cifuentes: ere were interesting di erences among those who responded, especially between those fortunate enough to be homeowners and those who rent. Renters are really losing faith, losing hope that they will ever own their own home. is concern isn’t just for them but also for their children and future generations, because if costs continue to rise as they have in recent years, that dream will only get further away.
It’s an incredibly important issue that we must address. As a philanthropic organization, we can contribute to the solution in our role, but it’s something that everyone — state government, federal government, non-pro t organizations, and people in o cial positions — must take very seriously to reach a viable solution for all communities in Colorado.
Cifuentes: ey may not have been entirely surprising, but they were certainly useful in con rming what we were already hearing from the community itself. De nitely, there are concerns about immigration in Colorado. Many people have recently arrived, eeing impossible conditions in their own countries, trying to rebuild their lives and achieve the American Dream.
is has also raised safety concerns within the Hispanic community, wondering whether we are more or less safe. We’re going to explore more deeply what these concerns really mean, particularly in relation to recent immigrants to the state.
e Colorado Health Foundation works with organizations that support these people, helping them nd a ordable housing, educational programs, and meet basic needs like food and clothing.
CCM: What other results from the survey surprised you?
CCM: e survey re ected a deep concern about immigration, with 59% of respondents who answered in Spanish considering immigration to be an extremely serious issue. Why do you think this is?
Cifuentes: In this election year, certain narratives are being used to divide the community rather than unite it, and that’s very delicate. We need to approach this issue carefully and pay close attention to what information is truthful and what isn’t, to avoid falling into disinformation.
It’s true that our own Hispanic community is the most concerned about the recent wave of immigrants, and that deserves more conversation among ourselves. e Hispanic community is incredibly diverse, not only in the countries we come from but also in our political and social views. We really need a space where we can better understand each other.
CCM: Another concern re ected in the survey is crime and substance abuse. What is the Colorado Health Foundation doing, along with other organizations, to address these issues in the Hispanic community?
Cifuentes: Crime and substance abuse are very real concerns. e foundation takes a preventive approach, investing in programs that o er safe alternatives for young people after school, keeping them away from potential criminal situations. Additionally, we support programs that help those recovering from addiction and serious mental health issues.
Regarding the di erences between rural and urban areas, we’ve noticed that there’s greater exposure to alcohol in rural areas, while substance abuse is more prevalent in cities.
CCM: What can you tell us about the importance of medical and dental care, which has always been challenging for our communities?
Cifuentes: I’m a nurse, and I rmly believe in the importance of having regular access to healthcare. Unfortunately, for many people, this is complicated, not just due to a lack of insurance but also due to a lack of time, especially for those working two or more jobs.
In rural areas, access is even more limited. However, in Denver, there
are clinics like the Tepeyac Health Center that o er a comprehensive model of healthcare, with doctors, psychologists and dentists all in one place. Additionally, many of the professionals working there speak Spanish, providing more accessible and culturally relevant care for the Latino community.
CCM: Finally, one interesting aspect of the survey is how the sense of belonging a ects people’s health and well-being. Can you explain how political divisions and other factors are in uencing the perception of belonging within the Latino community?
Cifuentes: A key factor is the diversity within our community, which goes beyond our countries of origin. Many people born in other countries don’t always nd a welcoming environment. is, along with political divisions and racial prejudice, has a huge impact on the perception of belonging.
CCM: It’s interesting to see that 37% of Hispanic/Latino respondents in Colorado mentioned that racial prejudice and discrimination are extremely serious, and that percentage rises to 54% among people with disabilities. at’s really sad.
Cifuentes: It’s very sad, but it’s also a reality we acknowledge at the foundation. Our focus is on racial justice, understanding that race, ethnicity and physical appearance play a role in people’s daily experiences and their sense of belonging to a community.
Many in Colorado don’t realize that Latinos are part of their communities, as they may live in peripheral areas or less visible places. is invisibility contributes to people not feeling like part of the community, which is directly related to the discrimination and racism they experience.
Many times, when we have the privilege of traveling all over the state of Colorado, talking to many people, especially in rural communities, we arrive and often hear, “Well, there are no Latinos here. ere are no Spanish speakers here.”
Portfolio director of the Colorado Health Foundation, Maribel Cifuentes, highlights the urgency of addressing health problems in the entire state, especially in the less visible communities.
Poll details voting trends for Latinos
Residents of 8th Congressional District show high support for asylum seekers
BY MONTE WHALEY MWHALEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
e Adams County-centric 8th Congressional District is an outlier when it comes to Latino registered voters.
At least 75% of the district’s Latino voters support some sort of asylum for noncitizens coming into the country, the highest among those who responded to a state-wide survey. Voter enthusiasm for the upcoming 2024 election is also highest among those surveyed, with 72% indicating they were 100% sure they will vote in November, according to the survey.
Another 38% of registered Latinos in the 8th Congressional indicated they have not been contacted by an elected o cial, which was the lowest percentage of Latinos who were surveyed. e district’s Latino voters are probably more engaged in state and local politics because they have been shaped by the rise of U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo, who was the rst Latina elected to the Congress in 2022, according to o cials with the 2024 Colorado Latino Policy Agenda.
“I am sure Yadira Caraveo has inuenced a lot of people in her district,” said Dusti Gurule, president and CEO of Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights, or COLOR.
Caraveo, a Democrat, was elected by a razor-thin margin over Republican Barb Kirkmeyer in 2022. Caraveo is being challenged this year by Republican Gabe Evans.
And we say, “But yes, there are. We just met them. Maybe they don’t live right in this community because the cost of living is too high, and they can’t a ord it. But the people working in the restaurants, the nurses in the hospitals, etc., are La-
tinos, and they are part of this community too.”
So, sometimes we realize that people don’t feel like they belong because they are truly invisible to the rest of the community, perhaps the majority. When people feel invisible, of course, they aren’t going to feel like they belong. And that has a lot to do with those racial lines and the racism that I think people experience in their daily lives.
is happens in so many communities we visit. For example, we’ll speak with a county commissioner or even with other foundations focused on rural areas, and we’ll say, “Our mission is about health equity, and we focus on racial justice.”
And they’ll respond, “But there are no people of color living here; only white people live here.”
We tell them, “No, it’s just that you don’t know them because they
OBITUARIES
live three miles away in that mobile home park. We were just there, we talked to them, and we asked them what concerns them. And you know what? eir concerns are no di erent from what you just told us. It’s the same. e only di erence is they can’t tell you because maybe they don’t speak English, maybe they don’t have a relationship with you, or maybe you don’t even know they live here.”
November 6, 1933 - September 11, 2024
Glen was born in Harlan, IA on November 6, 1933 to Nels P. and Mabel L. Miller. He attended Harlan High School and was a basketball, football and track star. He graduated with the class of 1952. On May 18,1953 he married his High School sweetheart, Edith Morrison in Harlan, IA at the Bethel Baptist Church and honeymooned in beautiful Colorado. On May 18, 2024 they celebrated their 71st Wedding Anniversary together with family and friends.
Glen served in the U.S Army from 1955 - 1957 in the Big Red Artillery Division and was in the Active Reserves from 1958 - 1959. Glen’s personal faith in Christ was a very important part of his life. He was involved in many church activities and was a deacon, trustee, a member of the choir and served on various committees. rough the years Glen worked at grocery stores and was on the maintenance crew at Western Electric in Omaha, Nebraska. In 1975 the family moved to Loveland, Colorado where he was employed by Woodward Governor for three years and then they moved to Estes Park where he worked for the Rocky Mountain National Park and also owned his own business, Miller Painting Company painting 88 homes! He also drove a tour bus for the Vacation Inn for many years. He retired at age 62 while living in beautiful Estes Park and later moved to Brighton, Colorado for health reasons.
Glen loved to travel with family and friends by planes, trains, automobiles and cruise ships exploring all 50 states, the Caribbean, the Netherlands, Belgium and France. During his travels he and
Edith would make frequent stops to see their children and grandchildren and during these trips were able to visit all 50 State Capitols, many National and State Parks and Presidential Libraries. ey spent their winters in Arizona visiting family and friends, playing golf and going to golf tournaments. Glen loved to capture all of his travels and adventures on camera and video. rough the years Glen was a fan of many college football teams including the Nebraska Cornhusker’s, Iowa Hawkeyes and CSU. He also rooted for the Denver Broncos, the Colorado Rockies and the Denver Nuggets.
Glen N. Miller went to his Heavenly home on September 11, 2024 at the age of 90. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nels Peter Miller and Mabel Lillie Miller, infant siblings Robert and Ruth; sister, Elaine Nelson; brothers, Gene Miller and Leland Miller; son, Glen Douglas Miller and granddaughter, Elizabeth Bettles.
He is survived by his loving wife, Edith Miller; daughter, Debra Condi (Dave); daughter, Patti Cook; daughter, Ann Doxie (Kevin); son, Brian Miller, 9 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren, 2 greatgreat grandchildren and other family members and friends.
A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held at a later date to be determined. To all who knew and loved Glen, thank you for your love, friendship and support. His beautiful smile, twinkle in his eyes, sense of humor, love for his family, friends and his Lord will be cherished forever. In Lieu of owers please donate to the American Cancer Society.
Glen Nelson Miller
Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo addresses supporters Aug. 17 at Alex’s Main Street Bar and Karaoke. PHOTO BY SCOTT TAYLOR
Republican congressional candidate Gabe Evans. FILE PHOTO
Casa Bonita set to begin taking reservations
Iconic Lakewood restaurant taking names for Oct. 1 public debut
BY SUZIE GLASSMAN
For more than a year, those wanting a glimpse inside Lakewood’s newly renovated Casa Bonita needed to win the lottery. While receiving an exclusive invitation to dinner at the iconic Mexican restaurant wasn’t quite akin to winning the Powerball, the odds of being chosen in Casa Bonita’s lottery system weren’t exactly in their favor.
Hundreds of thousands who signed up hoping to receive an invitation still remain on the waitlist, making it one of Denver’s most exclusive dining establishments.
All of that is changing. After decades of walk-in-only dining, the beloved establishment, nicknamed the “Disneyland of Mexican restaurants,” famous for its cli divers, immersive theme park atmosphere, and, more recently, its new ownership by
“South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, is set to begin accepting reservations for the rst time in its history.
Guests can now book their visits in advance through the restaurant’s website. ose visits are set to begin on Oct. 1.
According to the website, the restaurant plans to announce additional changes based on guest feedback as they are introduced. Since reopening in June 2023, guests are no longer required to pay for their meal before entering the dining area and instead receive table service.
Walk-in dining remains unavailable.
Parker and Stone o cially bought Casa Bonita in September 2021. e purchase came after the restaurant led for bankruptcy in 2020 due to nancial struggles exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
e pair, who were longtime fans, famously catapulted Casa Bonita to cultlike status after featuring the restaurant in a 2003 “South
Casa Bonita entrance.
FILE PHOTO BY JO DAVIS
FLAMENCO
On Sept. 21, Denverites were swept o their feet in an authentic world-class amenco show that took place at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts. e show. “Raices,” which means “Roots, ” was produced by Flamenco Denver, a local dance school and company that is celebrating 10 years as a nonpro t organization in Denver. Flamenco Denver was founded by Maria Vazquez, a Spanish immigrant from Seville, Spain, who after receiving her degree in Spanish dance from the Conservatory of Dance in Seville, and touring Europe for two years, moved to Denver in 2002. Vazquez has taught amenco art in Denver since then and has created a vigorous amenco community and family in Colorado. In addition to o ering dance classes for all ages and abilities, Flamenco Denver operates a local elite amenco dance company
RESERVATIONS
Park” episode. During a 2023 interview, Parker joked that they went over budget by $40 million upgrading the kitchen, improving safety features, modernizing lighting and sound systems, and making the restaurant ADA-compliant while keeping its nostalgic charm.
Parker and Stone also hired award-winning chef Dana Rodriguez to elevate the menu and pro-
that consistently produces shows in di erent venues in Colorado, with “Raices” being the biggest yearly show.
is year’s “Raices” brought Isaac Tovar, a celebrated international amenco dancer, choreographer and teacher also from Seville, Spain. He was a longtime soloist of the Ballet Flamenco Andalucía and a former soloist of the Ballet Nacional de España, among many other career highlights.
Sharing the stage with Isaac and the local Flamenco Denver dancers was Laura Peralta, a amenco dancer and native New Yorker with Afro-Dominican roots. She dances for companies including Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana, and many others. Laura graduated from Johns Hopkins University, studied classical piano for a decade at the Manhattan School of Music and possesses a long and remarkable amenco career.
All these dancers danced to the voice of Francisco “Yiyi” Orozco, cantaor (singer) and cajón player, born in Barcelona and introduced
vide a better culinary experience. Reviews on Yelp since the restaurant’s soft opening in June 2023 are mainly favorable. More than half of the 456 responses gave it 4 or more stars out of 5, while one-third gave the experience just one or two stars. For those who can’t get enough of Casa Bonita, a new documentary titled “¡Casa Bonita Mi Amor!” is now playing in select Denver-area movie theaters. e lm explores the restaurant’s history and cultural signi cance, along with the deep love and a ection fans and employees have for the restaurant.
to amenco rhythms at an early age by his father, a amenco singer. Yiyi started his professional career at the age of 12 and has performed around the world ever since. e dancing and the singing were accompanied by Grammy award winner Diego “El Negro” Alvarez, a percussionist and master cajón player born in Venezuela, who lived in Spain for 16 years and developed his career alongside several prestigious amenco dance companies.
And nally, the glue that holds all this together: the guitar, at the hands of Jose Manuel Alconchel Ortega, born in Jerez de La Frontera, Spain, and is the son of wellknown singer Pepe Alconchel, who introduced him to the world of music when he was 9 years old and started his professional career at
clubs and theaters in Andalusia at the age of 12.
“Raices” has taken place in Denver for the past seven years, and it is fascinating to see the reaction of the audience after the show ends. In short, those who attend get seduced by the rhythms, the passion and the liveliness of what takes place on stage.
All things this good come from a place of hard work, months of rehearsals, creativity and passion and materialize in a two-hour show that’s worth every minute. Long live the Hispanic Heritage that lives and endures in Denver! ¡Ole!
For more information about Flamenco Denver, visit amencodenver.com.
Eva Reinoso Tejada is a board member with Flamenco Denver.
GREEN HOMES TOUR
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Electric Vehicle Roundup 3pm–5pm
JUC Parking Lot: 14350 W. 32nd Ave • Golden, CO Reception & Green Expo 4:30 – 6:30pm at JUC FREE Appetizers & Local Beverages Live Music! • Renewable Energy & Sustainable Living Exhibits “Real people telling real stories about their path to electrification.”
Aims o ers First Aid classes in Spanish
BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Aims Community College will offer two First Aid, CPR and de brillator classes in Spanish this fall for folks in the community.
“ e more people we provide these skills to, the better,” said Laurie Casey, the program coordinator for CPR training at Aims in a written statement. “ ese skills are essential for caring for a sick child or elderly parent, and we appreciate the importance of o ering Spanish Heartsaver classes to enrich and empower the communities we serve.”
e rst two Spanish Heart Saver First Aid CPR AED classes will be held at the Aims Fort Lupton Campus on Sept. 28 and Oct. 19. e four-hour classes cost $70 and will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. e classes are open to anyone, even those with little or no medical training. Residents can register for the classes whether they are required to take this course for a job, would like to learn in an emergency or are outdoors people who do ac-
Aims Community College will be o ering two first aid classes entirely in Spanish this fall at the Fort Lupton campus. The classes are designed to teach CPR, how to use an automated external defibrillator and what to do in case of an opioid-related emergency.
tivities such as hiking, biking, or skiing in the mountains.
According to o cials in Northern Colorado, there are a few opportunities to become CPR-certi ed in Spanish, so Aims will expand the program to other locations.
For more information and to register, visit aims.co/cpr.
Aims o er first aid classes in Spanish for anyone who wants to learn. PHOTOS COURTESY AIMS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
GAPS
Douglas County saw the highest average growth in reading and math with scores of 55 and 53. Je erson County and Cherry Creek also achieved reading and math growth scores between 50 and 52.
Signi cant achievement gaps remain among racial and ethnic groups, as well as in disability, family income, and the ability to speak English in each metro-area district.
Among the districts detailed here, on average, white students outperformed Black students in reading by 29 percentage points and Hispanic students by 27, a persistent gap raising concerns about ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
Students with a speci c learning disability like dyslexia, speech and language delays, autism and other developmental disorders scored 40 or more percentage points lower than their peers, and those living in poverty or learning English are more than 30 points below other students.
Here is a summary of local district results.
Adams 12 Five Star Schools
Around 41% of Adams 12 students demonstrated pro ciency in reading, along with 33% meeting gradelevel standards in math. Both scores are .5% to 1% higher than in 2023 but remain lower than the state average and lower than before the pandemic began.
Growth scores also dropped below 50 in reading, indicating students
behind grade level aren’t catching up.
Still, the district saw some bright spots.
According to Alicia Stice, the district’s communications administrator, math achievement in third, fourth and fth grades now exceeds pre-pandemic performance. e district’s website also lists that 7th graders met or exceeded the state’s average growth in reading, and 4th and 8th graders met or exceeded the state’s average growth in math.
Multilingual learners across all grades exceeded the state growth percentiles for the sixth year. To help students learn English, Stice said the district opened the Newcomer Center at ornton High School.
“ e center houses a specialized program where students participate in core classes designed to support their linguistic and academic needs while earning credit towards graduation,” Stice said. “In addition to comprehensive coursework, the center also o ers wraparound services for both students and families to support their transition into U.S. schools and culture.”
She also said the district plans to improve reading and math prociency rates.
“We have recently implemented a new literacy curriculum (Benchmark Advance). Educators and leaders have been trained in the science of reading and planning e ective literacy instruction,” said Stice.
“We recently adopted Dibels mclass8 as well to use as an assessment tool to monitor and adjust instruction to provide appropriate support for students.” is district is working with ele-
mentary teachers to examine a new math resource to adopt and roll out the curriculum in the fall of 2025.
Elizabeth School District
While elementary and middle school students in the Elizabeth School District scored above the state average for reading and math, they dropped in pro ciency levels from 2023. In ELA, 45% of students met or exceeded reading expectations, while 35% achieved similar pro ciency in math.
Reading pro ciency rates for thirdgraders dropped below 30%. is grade is the rst time students take CMAS and is a critical marker for how well they will do in future grades where reading becomes more challenging.
Students also failed to show growth
above the 50th percentile, meaning that compared to classmates across the state, they aren’t keeping up with improvement from the prior year. e district saw a 9% overall drop in participation rates, from almost 91% in 2023 to 82% this year. In a small district like Elizabeth, which counts 2,600 students from pre-K to 12, a large number of students choosing to opt out can result in greater swings from year to year.
Students with a disability rated 13% pro cient in reading and 8% in math, a gap of 32 points in reading and 27 points in math to those without a disability.
Colorado Community Media contacted the Elizabeth School District for comment on the district’s CMAS results but did not hear back in time to be included in this article.
Colorado workers have questions about paid family and medical
Family and Medical Leave
By Tracy Marshall
(DENVER) – Coloradans no longer have to choose between caring for themselves and paying the bills.
The new Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program gives Colorado workers pay replacement when they need to step away from their jobs to care for themselves or a family member.
It’s a benefit available to almost everyone who earned at least $2,500 in Colorado in roughly the last year – including self-employed and gig workers. Workers in Colorado can now get up to 12 weeks of partial pay replacement per year after certain life events, such as the birth of a child or a serious medical condition.
But many Coloradans don’t know about this new benefit and how to get it. Here’s a quick overview, so you know that when life happens, FAMLI has you covered.
Where did FAMLI come from?
Colorado voters approved FAMLI in 2020. We’re actually the first state in the country to enact paid family and medical leave through a ballot initiative.
How does it work?
Employers and employees in Colorado
Here’s what you need to know.
have been paying into the FAMLI program since January of 2023. Premiums are set to 0.9% of the employee’s wage, with 0.45% paid by the employer and 0.45% paid by the employee.
Nearly every Colorado employer is required to comply with the FAMLI Act’s requirements – by either participating in the state program or providing a private plan of equal or greater benefit.
Only local governments have the option to vote to opt out of participating in the program. (Employees of opted-out local governments can still participate if they wish; they simply agree to pay the employee portion of the premium for three years.) Federal employers and some railroad employers are fully exempt from the program.
Family and medical leave isn’t new – the national Family and Medical Leave Act, which took effect in 1993, grants 12 weeks of job-protected leave for many. But it’s unpaid leave and excludes many part-time workers, workers at small-sized businesses and those who have worked less than 12 months.
What life events make someone eligible for paid leave?
Colorado’s FAMLI program covers workers who need to temporarily step away from work for the following reasons:
• Bonding with a new child (including adoptions and foster care/kinship care placements)
•Managing a serious health condition
• Caring for a family member with a serious health condition
• Making arrangements because of a military deployment
• Dealing with the immediate needs and impacts from domestic partner violence, sexual assault or stalking.
How much does FAMLI pay?
Employees can receive up to 90% of their wages, based on a sliding scale. So if you make $500 a week, your FAMLI benefit would be $450 a week. Benefits are capped at $1,100 per week.
This cap is proportional to the average weekly wage for Colorado and may increase over time. We have a calculator on our website (famli.colorado.gov) to help families get a rough estimate of both their paycheck deductions and potential benefit payments.
What if my employer won’t let me go?
Colorado voters made sure that employers can’t fire people just because they need to
leave.
take FAMLI leave. The law prohibits employers from interfering with your right to take paid medical leave, and it says they have to keep your information confidential.
Even better, the law includes important job protections that kick in after you’ve worked somewhere for 180 days, or roughly six months. After that, employers are required to reinstate workers on FAMLI leave to the jobs they had before (with some exceptions, such as seasonal work that was scheduled to wind down anyway.)
We’ve got lots of resources on our website to explain exactly how FAMLI job protection works.
What are my next steps?
Supporting Colorado workers who need FAMLI leave is our passion. You can file your claim online, with lots of how-to guides and videos to help you through the process.
For personalized assistance, you can call us any weekday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. at 1-866-CO-FAMLI (1-866-263-2654).
Tracy Marshall is the Director of the new paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Division at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE). Tracy has been a Registered Nurse for over 30 years and holds her Bachelors in Nursing from the University of Wales.
SPONSORED CONTENT
Elementary students at work in a classroom
Adams County hires interim County Manager
David Fraser to temporarily replace Noel Bernal
BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
A Colorado native with a background in economic development will take over Adams County leadership through Spring of 2025. County o cials announced Sept. 18 that David Fraser will step in as the Interim County Manager until Spring 2025, temporarily replacing County Manager Noel Bernal.
6347
On his LinkedIn pro le, Bernal announced that he had taken a job as a Consulting Partner for Denver-based Strategic Partnerships, Inc. as of Sept. 1.
Fraser is a Colorado native living in Cheyenne. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Administration from Brigham Young University’s Marriott School of Management. According to o cials, he is also a certi ed economic development nance
professional.
“David Fraser’s extensive experience and dedication to public service will provide invaluable leadership during this transitional period,” said County Commission Chair Emma Pinter. “His deep commitment to community development and e cient government operations makes him an excellent t for Adams County.”
According to the news release, Fraser has an extensive background in management positions in Colorado, Nevada, Kansas, and Michigan. He also worked as Executive Director of the Nevada League of
Cities and the Wyoming Association of Municipalities.
In addition, Fraser was on numerous boards and committees with the National League of Cities (NLC) Board of Directors and the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA) Government A airs & Policy Committee.
Fraser will work alongside Senior Deputy County Manager Alisha Reis to address the needs of Adams County residents to prosper. County Commissioners are expected to begin a job search for a permanent replacement. at replacement is expected to be hired in the spring.
David Fraser
MARKETPLACE
DIRECTV-Allyourentertainment. Nothingonyourroof!Signupfor Directandgetyourfirstfreemonths ofMax,Paramount+,Showtime, Starz,MGM+andCinemaxincluded. ChoicePackage$84.99/mo.Some restrictionsapply. CallDIRECTV1-888-725-0897
Arts & Crafts
Family in Christ Church
70+ Vendors, Little Bear Café, Cookie Walk & FREE Raffle! Friday, October 18th 10:00am-4:00pm & Saturday, October 19th 9:00am-3:00pm 11355 N. Sheridan Blvd. Westminster (303-466-7770) Admission: FREE Suggested Donation: Non-perishable food items (not expired) for local food banks
Lawn & Garden
MaybeCoveredbyMedicare! Reclaimindependenceand mobilitywiththecompact designandlong-lastingbattery ofInogenOne. FreeInformationKit! Call:844-823-0293
FreeHighSpeedInternetforthosethatqualify. Govermentprogramforrecipientsofselect programsincl.Medicaid,SNAP,Housing Assistance,WIC,VeteransPension,Survivor Benefits,Lifeline,Tribal.15GBInternetService. Bonusoffer:AndroidTabletFREEwithone-time $20copay.FreeShipping&Handling. CallMaxsipTelecomToday:7-866-654-9429
ToPlacea25-wordCOSCAN Networkadin91Colorado Newspaperforonly$300,contact yourlocalNewspaperoremail rtoledo@colopress.net Toplacea25-wordCOSCANNetworkadin91ColoradoNewspapersfor
Miscellaneous
Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936
Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306
Miscellaneous
MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888489-3936
Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code!
Careers
Help Wanted
Office position with computer and accounting knowledge. Full time, 4 to 5 days, flexible hours. Contact Jim or Matt, 303-857-2750. Send resume to jim@ houseofsmokeinc.com.
Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833606-6777
Medical
Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-4779045
DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/ mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/ Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405
Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable pricesNo payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189
Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234
Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer.) Call 1-844-5013208
Adams County Commissioners
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FOR ADAMS COUNTY, STATE OF COLORADO
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE REFERRAL OF A BALLOT ISSUE FOR THE NOVEMBER 5, 2024, GENERAL ELECTION AUTHORIZING THE IMPOSITION OF A TEMPORARY .15% COUNTYWIDE SALES TAX FOR THE PURPOSE OF INCREASING THE AMOUNT OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN THE UNINCORPORATED AND INCORPORATED AREAS OF ADAMS COUNTY Resolution 2024 - 447
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic conditions have caused dramatic unanticipated increases in the cost of housing in Adams County (“County”) and the lack of affordable housing in the County for low and moderate income households has caused economic distress to Adams County individuals, families and businesses; and, WHEREAS, the County has an estimated housing unit deficit of approximately 10,000 homes that is expected to increase to approximately 30,000 by 2050 if not addressed; and, WHEREAS, a dedicated revenue stream to support the availability of affordable homes is critical to meeting the housing development goals set forth in Colorado State law; and, WHEREAS, the County is legally authorized to impose a sales tax on the sale of tangible personal property at retail and the furnishing of services, subject to the approval of the registered electors of the County; and, WHEREAS, the Board has determined that it is in the interest of the residents of Adams County to impose a temporary Countywide sales tax at the rate of .15% for the period beginning January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2044, the receipts from which shall be restricted in application to the expansion of affordable housing in the incorporated and unincorporated areas of Adams County; and, WHEREAS, the Board has determined that a question regarding the imposition of a temporary sales tax for the purposes enunciated herein should be submitted by the Board to the eligible electors of the County; and, WHEREAS, the Board has determined to set the ballot title and ballot question for the issue to be submitted at the election called by this Resolution.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of County Commissioners, County of Adams, State of Colorado: 1.Pursuant to §§ 1-1-111, 1-5-203(3), and 30-11-103.5, C.R.S., the Board hereby authorizes and directs that the following ballot issue be certified herewith to the Adams County Clerk and Recorder (“Clerk and Recorder”) for submission to the registered electors in Adams County to be included on the ballot for the November 5, 2024, General Election: BALLOT ISSUE
SHALL ADAMS COUNTY TAXES BE INCREASED BY TWENTY- TWO MILLION, TWO HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS ($22,200,000) (FIRST FULL YEAR DOLLAR AMOUNT, FOR COLLECTION IN CALENDAR YEAR 2025) ANNUALLY, AND BY WHATEVER AMOUNT IS RAISED THEREAFTER, BY THE IMPOSITION OF A TEMPORARY COUNTYWIDE SALES TAX AT THE RATE OF .15% ($0.15 CENTS ON A $100 PURCHASE) EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2025, AND EXPIRING DECEMBER 31,2044, WITH THE PROCEEDS TO BE USED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF EXPANDING THE AVAILABILITY OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN ADAMS COUNTY, BY:
DISTRIBUTING GRANTS TO MULTIJURISDICTIONAL AND COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITIES ESTABLISHED IN ADAMS COUNTY FOR THE PURPOSES OF:
FINANCING, PLANNING, ENTITLING, DEVELOPING, OPERATING, ACQUIRING, PRESERVING, RENOVATING, ADMINISTERING, MAINTAINING AND CONSTRUCTING AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR SALE OR RENT IN THE UNINCORPORATED AND INCORPORATED AREAS OF ADAMS COUNTY; AND SHALL ADAMS COUNTY BE ALLOWED TO COLLECT, RETAIN AND SPEND THE REVENUES FROM SUCH TAX AND THE INTEREST EARNINGS THEREON AS A VOTER-APPROVED REVENUE CHANGE WITHIN THE MEANING OF ARTICLE X, SECTION 20 OF THE COLORADO CONSTITUTION AND ABOVE ANNUAL LIMITS WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE APPLY OR BE PROPOSED, INCLUDING AS AN APPROVED EXCEPTION TO THE LIMITATIONS SET FORTH IN SECTION 29-1-301 OF THE COLORADO REVISED STATUTES; ALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ RESOLUTION NO. 2024 – 447. YES/FOR NO/AGAINST
2.This Resolution shall serve to set the ballot title and text of the ballot issue.
3.The election shall be conducted by the Clerk and Recorder in accordance with the Uniform Election Code, C.R.S §1-1-101, et. seq., and other laws and regulations of the State of Colorado, including without limitation, the requirements of Article X, Section 20 of the Colorado Constitution (hereinafter “TABOR”).
4.The Clerk and Recorder shall cause all acts required or permitted by the Uniform Election Code and the Rules relevant to be performed by the Clerk and Recorder or its designees.
5.The Clerk and Recorder shall cause a notice of election to be published in accordance with the laws of the State of Colorado, including but not limited to, the Uniform Election Code and TABOR.
6.The Clerk and Recorder shall mail a TABOR notice package to all active registered voter households in Adams County, pursuant to Colo. Const., Art. X, §20, which shall include the ballot issue adopted herein.
7.Pursuant to C.R.S. § 29-2-104(5), the Clerk and Recorder shall publish the text of this Resolution four separate times, a week apart, in the official newspaper of the County and each city and incorporated town within the County.
8.If a majority of the votes cast are in favor of the ballot issue of implementing the temporary sales described herein, (“the Affordable Housing Sales Tax”) then such tax shall be imposed and shall apply to all taxable transactions, unless exempt, occurring on or after January 1, 2025, and through December 31, 2044, and shall be collected, administered and enforced in accordance with this Resolution and the schedules set forth in the rules and regulations promulgated by the Colorado Department of Revenue.
9.Imposition of Tax. There is hereby imposed on all sales of tangible personal property at retail or the furnishing of services in the County as provided in Section 29-2-105, et. seq., Colorado Revised Statutes, as amended, a tax equal to .15% of the gross receipts, the “Affordable Housing Sales Tax”.
10.All retail sales are sourced as specified in Section 39-26-104(3). For purposes of this sales tax, all retail sales are consummated at the retailer’s place of business unless the tangible personal property sold is delivered by the retailer or his agent outside the County limits. The gross receipts from such sales shall include delivery charges when such charges are subject to state sales tax imposed by article 26, title 39, C.R.S., regardless of the place to which delivery is made. If a retailer has no permanent place of business in the County, the place at which the retail sales are consummated for the purpose of this sales tax shall be determined by the provisions of Article 26, Title 39, C.R.S., and by the rules and regulations promulgated by the Colorado Department of Revenue. Without limiting the broad application of this sales tax and recognizing that mobile telecommunications services are subject to particular legal requirements, this sales tax shall apply to mobile telecommunications services to the greatest extent permitted under Section 29-2-105(1.5), C.R.S.
11.Transactions Subject to the Sales Tax. The transactions subject to the Affordable Housing Sales Tax shall be as set forth below and as
required by Colorado state law. The amount subject to the tax shall not include the amount of any sales or use tax imposed by Article 26 of
Title 29, C.R.S. The sale of tangible personal property and services taxable hereunder shall be the same as the tangible personal property and services taxable pursuant to C.R.S. §39-26-104, except as provided herein, and shall be subject to the same exemptions as those specified in 7 of Article 26 of Title 39, expressly including the following exemptions:
(A)The exemption for sales of machinery or machine tools specified in section 39-26-709 (1), C.R.S., other than machinery or machine tools used in the processing of recovered materials by a business listed in the inventory prepared by the department of public health and environment pursuant to section 30-20-122 (1)(a)(V), C.R.S.;
(B)The exemption for sales of machinery or machine tools specified in section 39-26-709 (1), C.R.S., used in the processing of recovered materials by a business listed in the inventory prepared by the department of public health and environment pursuant to section 30-20-122 (1)(a)(V), C.R.S.;
(C)The exemption for sales of electricity, coal, wood, gas, fuel oil, or coke specified in section 39-26-715 (1)(a)(II), C.R.S.;
(D)The exemption for sales of food specified in section 39-26-707 (1)(e), C.R.S.; for the purposes of this exemption, “food” shall be defined as in 39-26-102(4.5);
(E)The exemption for vending machine sales of food specified in section 39-26-714 (2), C.R.S.;
(F)The exemption for sales by a charitable organization specified in section 39-26-718 (1)(b), C.R.S.;
(G)The exemption for sales of farm equipment and farm equipment under lease or contract specified in section 39-26-716 (4)(e) and (4)(f);
(H)The exemption for sales of motor vehicles, power sources, or parts used for converting such power sources as specified in section 3926-719 (1);
(I)The exemption for sales of wood from salvaged trees killed or infested in Colorado by mountain pine beetles or spruce beetles as specified in section 39-26-723, C.R.S.;
(J)The exemption for sales of components used in the production of energy, including but not limited to alternating current electricity, from a renewable energy source specified in section 39-26-724, C.R.S.;
(K)The exemption for sales that benefit a Colorado school specified in section 39-26-725, C.R.S.;
(L)The exemption for sales by an association or organization of parents and teachers of public school students that is a charitable organization as specified in section 39-26-718 (1)(c), C.R.S.;
(M)The exemption for sales of property for use in space flight specified in section 39-26-728, C.R.S.;
(N)The exemption for manufactured homes and tiny homes set forth in section 39-26-721 (3);
(O)The exemption for sales of period products as specified in section 39-26-717 (2)(m);
(P)The exemption for sales of incontinence products and diapers as specified in section 39-26-717 (2)(n);
(Q)The exemption for sales of eligible decarbonizing building materials set forth in section 39-26-731;
(R)The exemption for sales of heat pump systems and heat pump water heaters set forth in section 39-26-732;
(S)The exemption for sales of energy storage systems set forth in section 39-26-733.
12.The Affordable Housing Sales Tax shall not be imposed on the following:
(A)The sale of construction and building materials, as the term is used in section 29-2-109, C.R.S. if the purchaser of such materials presents to the retailer a building permit or other documentation acceptable to the County evidencing that a local use tax has been paid or is required to be paid.
(B)The sale of tangible personal property at retail or the furnishing of services if the transaction was previously subjected to a sales or use tax lawfully imposed on the purchaser or user by another statutory or home rule county equal to or in excess of that sought to be imposed by Adams County. A credit shall be granted against the sales tax imposed by Adams County with respect to such transaction equal in amount to the lawfully imposed local sales or use tax previously paid by the purchaser or user to the previous statutory or home rule county. The amount of the credit shall not exceed the sales tax imposed by the subsequent statutory or home rule county.
(C)The sale of tangible personal property at retail or the furnishing of services if the transaction was previously subjected to a sales or use tax lawfully imposed on the purchaser or user by another statutory or home rule city and county, city, or town equal to or in excess of that sought to be imposed by Adams County. A credit shall be granted against the sales tax imposed by Adams County with respect to such transaction equal in amount to the lawfully imposed local sales or use tax previously paid by the purchaser or user to the previous statutory or home rule city and county, city, or town. The amount of the credit shall not exceed the sales tax imposed by the subsequent statutory or home rule city and county, city, or town.
(D)The sale of food purchased with food stamps. For the purposes of this subsection (D), “food” shall have the same meaning as provided in 7 U.S.C. sec. 2012 (g), as such section exists on October 1, 1987, or is thereafter amended.
(E)The sale of food purchased with funds provided by the special supplemental food program for women, infants, and children, 42 U.S.C. sec. 1786. For the purposes of this section (E), “food” shall have the same meaning as provided in 42 U.S.C. sec. 1786, as such section exists on October 1, 1987, or is thereafter amended.
(F)Notwithstanding any provision of this section to the contrary, sales of cigarettes shall be exempt from the Affordable Housing Sales Tax pursuant to 29-2-105(9), C.R.S.
13.Transactions subject to Specific Ownership Tax. All sales of personal property on which a specific ownership tax has been paid or is payable shall be exempt from said county, town, or city sales tax when such sales meet both of the following conditions:
(A)The purchaser is a nonresident of or has his principal place of business outside of the local taxing entity; and
(B)Such personal property is registered or required to be registered outside the limits of the local taxing entity under the laws of this state.
14.Collection, Administration and Enforcement. The collection, administration and enforcement of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax shall be performed by the Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Revenue (the “Executive Director”) in the same manner as the collection, administration, and enforcement of the Colorado state sales tax. The provisions of article 26 of title 39, C.R.S. and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder by the Executive Director shall govern the collection, administration, and enforcement of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax.
15.Vendor Fee. No vendor fee shall be permitted or withheld with respect to the collection and remittance of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax.
16.Distribution of Sales Tax Revenue. The Board of County Commissioners shall be responsible for and shall establish policies and procedures concerning the oversight and distribution of proceeds from the collection of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax, and shall define the term “Affordable Housing” for the purpose of the distribution of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax.
17. Deposit and Expenditure of Revenue.
(A)The County shall establish an Affordable Housing Fund within which all revenues and expenditures from the Affordable Housing Sales Tax shall be deposited and accounted for.
(B)Up to three percent (3%) of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax collected may be used for administrative purposes associated with administrating the Affordable Housing Fund.
(C)After payment of the administrative expenses described in Section 17(B) above, moneys remaining in the Affordable Housing Fund shall be used for the purpose of distributing grants to multijurisdictional and county housing authorities established in Adams
purpose of expanding the availability of affordable housing for the benefit of the
and
Public Notices
of Revenue with written notice of this Resolution submitting the question to the registered electors no later than ten days after the adoption of this Resolution.
19.If a majority of the votes cast on the issue of the imposition of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax are in favor of such ballot issue, in accordance with §29-2-106, C.R.S. the Clerk and Recorder shall provide the Colorado Department of Revenue with a written notice of the adoption of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax, along with a copy of this Resolution, no later than forty-five days before January 1, 2025. 20.The officers and employees of the County are hereby authorized and directed to take all action necessary or appropriate to effectuate the provisions of this Resolution.
21.The rate of the Affordable Housing Sales Tax and the deposit of revenues collected as set forth in this Resolution shall not be amended, altered, or otherwise changed unless first submitted to a vote of the registered electors of the County for their approval or rejection. Other provisions of this Resolution may be amended as necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution by resolution adopted by the Board of County Commissioners in accordance with Colorado law.
22.All actions consistent with the provisions of this Resolution heretofore taken by the members of the Board of County Commissioners and the officers and employees of the County and directed toward holding the election for the purposes states herein are hereby ratified, approved and confirmed.
23.All prior acts, orders or resolutions, or parts thereof, by the County inconsistent or in conflict with this Resolution are hereby
the extent only of such inconsistency or conflict.
24.If any section, paragraph, clause or provision of this Resolution shall be adjudged invalid or unenforceable, the invalidity or unenforceability of such section, paragraph, clause or provision shall not affect any of the remaining sections, paragraphs, clauses or provisions of this Resolution, it being the intention that the various parts hereof are severable.
25.The cost of the election shall be paid from the County’s general fund.
26.This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon its passage.
Legals
Metropolitan Districts
Public Notice
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING FOR HEARING ON PETITION FOR INCLUSION OF ADDITIONAL REAL PROPERTY WITHIN THE SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to all interested persons that a Petition for Inclusion of additional real property into the South Adams County Water and Sanitation District (“District”) has been filed with the Board of Directors of the District. The Board of Directors shall hold a hearing on the Petition at a public meeting to be held on October 9, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., at the District’s Administration Building located at 6595 E. 70th Avenue, Commerce City, Colorado 80022.
The name and address of the Petitioner are:
QuikTrip Corporation
12000 Washington St., Suite 175 Thornton, CO 80241-3140
The property to be included into the District is located in Adams County, Colorado and generally described as follows:
18400 E. 81st Ave. Commerce City, CO 80022
All interested parties may appear at such hearing to show cause in writing why such Petition should not be granted.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT.
SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT
By: /s/ Vicki Ennis Secretary
Legal Notice No. CCX1418
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: September 26, 2024
Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
Metro Districts Budget Hearings
Public Notice
NOTICE CONCERNING 2025 BUDGET HEARINGS FOR LAREDO METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget for the ensuing year of 2025 has been submitted to the Board of Directors of Directors of Laredo Metropolitan District and that a copy of the 2024 proposed budget has been filed in the office of Wolfersberger, LLC, 8354 Northfield Blvd, Building G, Suite 3700, Denver, Colorado 80238, where the same is open for public inspection; and that such proposed budget will be considered at a public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District to be held on Monday, October 14, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the following location: Bison Ridge Recreation Center Conference Room (13905 E 112th Ave Commerce City, CO 80022). Any elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2025 budget, inspect such budgets and file or register any objections thereto.
LAREDO METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
By:
Annemarie
Tucker District Manager
Legal Notice No. CCX 4506
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: September 26, 2024
Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
Public Notice
NOTICE CONCERNING PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET OF TURNBERRY #2
METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board
and
vote: Henry Aye Tedesco Excused
Pinter Aye
O’Dorisio Aye
Baca Excused Commissioners
OF COLORADO ) County of Adams ) I, Josh Zygielbaum , County Clerk and ex-officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners in and for the County and State aforesaid do hereby certify that the annexed and foregoing Order is truly copied from the Records of the Proceedings of the Board of County Commissioners for said Adams County, now in my office.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of said County, at Brighton, Colorado this 27th day of August A.D. 2024.
County Clerk and ex-officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners Josh Zygielbaum: By:
of Directors of Turnberry #2 Metropolitan District for the ensuing year of 2025; that a copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of Wolfersberger, LLC, 8354 Northfield Blvd, Building G, Suite 3700, Denver, Colorado 80238, where the same is open for public inspection; and that such proposed budget will be considered at a public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District to be held on Monday October 21, 2024 at 6:00 pm. Bison Ridge Recreation Center (13905 E 112th Ave, Commerce City, CO 80022). Any elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget, inspect the budget and file or register any objections thereto.
TURNBERRY #2 METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
By: Charles Wolfersberger District Manager
Legal Notice No. CCX 4504
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: September 26, 2024 Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
Public Notice
NOTICE CONCERNING PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET OF NORTH RANGE VILLAGE METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of North Range Village Metropolitan District for the ensuing year of 2025; that a copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of Wolfersberger, LLC, 8354 Northfield Blvd, Building G, Suite 3700, Denver, Colorado 80238, where the same is open for public inspection; and that such proposed budget will be considered at a public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District to be held on Wednesday October 16, 2024 6:00 p.m. held at Bison Ridge Recreation Center (13905 E 112th Ave, Commerce City, CO 80022).Any elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget, inspect the budget and file or register any objections thereto.
NORTH RANGE VILLAGE
METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
By: Annemarie Tucker District Manager
Legal Notice No. CCX 4507
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: September 26, 2024
Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
Public Notice NOTICE CONCERNING PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET OF BUFFALO RUN MESA METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of Buffalo Run Mesa Metropolitan District for the ensuing year of 2025; that a copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of Wolfersberger, LLC, 8354 Northfield Blvd, Building G, Suite 3700, Denver, Colorado 80238, where the same is open for public inspection; and that such proposed budget will be considered at a public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District to be held on Thursday October 17, 2024. At 4:30 p.m. online at https://meet.goto.com/district_meeting_ room_04 Any elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget, inspect the budget and file or register any objections thereto.
BUFFALO RUN MESA METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
By: Charles Wolfersberger, District Manager
Legal Notice No. CCX 4505
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: September 26, 2024
Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
New rules for free school lunch program
State program unchanged despite funding challenges
BY YESENIA ROBLES CHALKBEAT COLORADO
Colorado is still o ering free school meals this school year, even though the program has ended up costing more than state o cials predicted.
While an advisory group tries to come up with long-term solutions that may mean changes in future school years, state lawmakers decided to continue funding the program in the short term, so the program won’t change for this school year.
Below are answers to some common questions people have about the program.
Are school meals free for all students this year again?
Yes, in districts that choose to participate in the state’s free school meals program. Districts have to sign up with the state. Last year, a
majority of the districts in the state participated. is year, districts have until Sept. 16 to tell the state they’re opting in, so the state doesn’t yet know whether all districts, or fewer, will participate this year.
Large school districts including Denver, Je co, and Douglas County have indicated on their websites that they are o ering free meals to all students again this school year.
Why is my child’s school telling me to fill out a form to see if I qualify for free or reduced-price lunch?
e state program kicks in money only after schools and districts have already received reimbursements from the federal government for the meals of students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals. So identifying students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals helps your school get money from the federal government rst, helping state dollars go further.
ere are other bene ts as well.
e state and districts sometimes allocate certain resources to schools based on how many students qualify for free or reduced-price meals,
Public Notices
Project Owners: Painted Prairie Public Improvement Authority
Project Location: City of Aurora, Adams County
The Painted Prairie Public Improvement Authority plans to accept the above titled project as substantially complete and for Final Settlement to Hudick Excavating, Inc. after October 28, 2024. In accordance with the Contract Documents, the Painted Prairie Public Improvement Authority may withhold a portion of the remaining payment to be made to Hudick Excavating, Inc., as necessary, to protect the Painted Prairie Public Improvement Authority from loss on account of claims filed and failure of Hudick Excavating, Inc. to make payments properly to subcontractors or suppliers. Project suppliers and subcontractors of Hudick Excavating, Inc. are hereby notified that unresolved outstanding claims must be certified and forwarded to:
Contact Person: Barney Fix, P.E. Address: 5970 Greenwood Plaza Blvd. Greenwood Village, CO 80111 as soon as possible, but no later than October 24, 2024.
Legal Notice No. CCX1419
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: October 10, 2024
Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
Non-Consecutive Publications
Public Notice
WINDLER PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY
WINDLERDISCOVERY PARK – BUILDINGS
Sealed Bids will be received by Windler Public Improvement Authority, hereinafter referred to as OWNER, at the office of the Authority Engineer, Merrick & Company, 5970 Greenwood Plaza Boulevard, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, until 10:00 AM local time on October 25,
because it’s used as a measure of poverty.
And families who are identi ed as qualifying for those subsidized meals can become eligible for other bene ts such as discounts on other school fees or other assistance.
Didn’t I hear that the state went over budget on these meals last year?
Yes. e program as it was approved by voters in 2022 is funded because the state got rid of a tax credit that used to save tax- lers money. By not allowing certain tax deductions for families who make more than $300,000, the state was able to collect new revenue to pay for the school meals.
But the state miscalculated how many students were going to eat free school meals. Since many more students than expected ate school meals, the cost of the program was higher than expected.
Lawmakers last year used other state money to cover the shortfall, and also budgeted extra money to cover the program for this school year, while they gure out if changes will be made.
Is there still a chance the free school meal program will change?
Yes, but any changes would likely be for the next school year, 202526. e state has hired a consultant that is working with the new Healthy School Meals for All Technical Advisory Group. e group is tasked with identifying how to maximize the amount of money that comes in from federal reimbursements rst, and how to reduce the cost of the program. It will develop options for lawmakers on how to make the program sustainable.
One organization that helped create the program in 2022 has considered the idea of a ballot measure, for example, to ask voters for more help to fund the program. e advisory group began meeting in July and will have an update for lawmakers in September, with its nal report and recommendations due in December. is story was printed through a news sharing agreement with Chalkbeat Colorado, a nonpro t news site covering educational change in public schools.
2024, for:
Windler - Discovery Park – Buildings
This Contract provides for the construction of the following: Structural project includes architectural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and structural items for buildings located within Discovery Park. Discovery Park is located south of E. 56th Avenue and Denali Street.
Copies of the Bidding Documents may be requested from the Windler Public Improvement Authority, at the email of the Authority Engineer, barney. fix@merrick.com, beginning September 26, 2024. NO PAYMENT REQUIRED. REPRODUCTIONS ARE PROHIBITED.
Bidders must be licensed Contractors in the State of Colorado.
Bids will be received providing unit price for items; however, the price given will be on a maximum not-to-exceed amount, as described in the Bidding Documents.
The Work is expected to be commenced within sixty (60) days after the Date of Contract.
Bid Security in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total Bid Price must accompany each Bid in the form specified in the Instructions to Bidders.
The Successful Bidder will be required to furnish a Performance Bond, Labor and Material Payment Bond guaranteeing faithful performance and warranty bond for two-years after Substantial Completion, and the payment of all bills and obligations arising from the performance of the Contract.
The OWNER reserves the right to award the contract by sections, to reject any or all Bids, and to waive any informalities and irregularities therein.
For further information, please contact Barney Fix at Merrick & Company at
303-751-0741.
Legal Notice No. CCX1420
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: October 10, 2024
Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express Non-Consecutive Publications
Public Notice
NOTICE OF FINAL PAYMENT
NOTICE is hereby given that the South Adams County Water and Sanitation District (“District”) of Adams County, Colorado, will make final payment at its offices at 6595 E. 70th Avenue, Commerce City, Colorado, 80022, on October 14, 2024, at the hour of 3:00 p.m. to A.D. Miller Services, Inc., of Centennial, Colorado for all work done by said Contractor in construction work performed for the District.
Project Contractor: A.D. Miller Services, Inc.
Project Name: Williams Monaco Wastewater Treatment Plant
Project Location: 9702 Monaco Street Henderson, CO 80640
Any person, co-partnership, association of persons, company or corporation that has furnished labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender, or other supplies used or consumed by any contractors or their subcontractors, in or about the performance of the work contracted to be done or that supplies rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used in the prosecution of the work, and whose claim therefor has not been paid by the contractors or their subcontractors, at any time up to and including the time of final settlement for the work contracted to be done, is required to file a verified statement of the amount due and unpaid, and an account of such claim, to the District at the above address, Attn: Dawn Fredette, District Clerk/ Legal Assistant, on or before the date and time hereinabove shown. Failure
on the part of any claimant to file such verified statement of claim prior to such final settlement will release the District, its Board of Directors, officers, agents, and employees, of and from any and all liability for such claim.
All of the above is pursuant to §38-26107, C.R.S.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT acting through its SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT ACTIVITY ENTERPRISE
By:/s/ Vicki Ennis Secretary
Legal Notice No. CCX1417
First Publication: September 26, 2024 Last Publication: October 3, 2024 Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative on or before January 30, 2025 or the claims may be forever barred.
ROBERT DYE, Personal Representative
7431 ONEIDA ST COMMERCE CITY, CO. 80022
Legal Notice No. CCX 4502
First
October 3, 2024
VOTING
e Colorado Latino Policy Agenda is an annual, nonpartisan survey that provides insights into the demographic makeup and views of Latinos in Colorado about the pressing issues in the state, said Gabe Sanchez of BSP Research, which conducts the survey, now in its fourth year.
Housing, medical care top concerns
Overall, Latinos are concerned with rising costs of housing, medical care and other nancial issues, Sanchez said.
“A lot of Latinos in the state of Colorado are waiting to see if the economy turns for them and their
family,” Sanchez said.
e statewide poll of 1,600 Latino registered voters was conducted from July 1-July 27 in both English and Spanish. e margin of error was plus-or-minus 2.4%, Sanchez said. e poll found that:
– Addressing in ation and the rising cost of living is the top priority for Latino voters at both the state and federal levels for the third consecutive year, as four of the top ve priorities focused on economic concerns.
– e economic situation of 65% of Latinos has either not improved (30%) or has become worse (35%) since 2023, nearly identical to a year ago.
– Creating a ordable and attainable housing rose three positions to the third-most- important issue for state o cials to address in 2024,
with a majority (55%) of Latino voters saying elected o cials have not effectively addressed the issue in their community.
– Roughly a third of Latinos (30%) prioritize federal immigration issues in the 2024 poll, with 17% saying “protecting immigrant rights/immigration reform” should be a top priority and 13% saying federal o cials should “increase border security/ limit immigration.”
– Addressing gun violence and mass shootings is the only non-economic issue within the top ve priority issues at the national level, ranking among the top ve issues for Latino voters for the third consecutive year.
– Homelessness returned as a critical priority for Latino voters in 2024, ranking fourth on the list of most important issues for state leaders to address.
– ere is signi cant support (77%) for access to reproductive healthcare for all, regardless of immigration status, and additionally strong support (68%) for insurance and government plans like Medicaid to cover abortions just like other health services.
Latino voters also showed solid support for “inclusive” measures on this fall’s ballot, with 61% support for enshrining abortion rights in the Colorado constitution – Amendment 79 – and 58% support amending the Colorado constitution to remove the ban on same-sex marriage – Amendment J, according to the poll.
As for immigration, the poll shows there is little support for “building a 2,000-mile wall,” Sanchez said. “ ere is wide support for policies that are rational…and treat immigrants in a humane way.”
