Commerce City Sentinel Express November 28, 2024

SPECIAL HOMETOWN HOLIDAYS EDITION

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

From the Commerce City Sentinel Express

Lunch for 200 people?

These

BY ANN SCHIMKE

Colorado charter school students do it every day.

Brayden, Sabrina, and Rachel scraped the charred skins o poblano peppers, squished out the seeds, and dropped the slippery pepper esh into a stainless steel bowl.

“Guys! Why are we leaving so many seeds in there?” 16-year-old Sabrina said, half laughing, half exasperated.

“Oh my God, they just keep appearing,” said Brayden, also 16. “I clean it o and eight more show up.”

It was almost 9 a.m. on a Tuesday, and the three worked with classmates to make posole in their rst class of the day at STEAD School, a charter school in Commerce City northeast of Denver. In just over two hours, the fragrant Mexi-

can soup of hominy, chicken, peppers, and tomatillos would be the star of their high school’s lunch line. Grapes, orange wedges, and a salad bar were the supporting actors.

e morning meal prep session happens four days a week at STEAD, an agriculture and science-focused school where you might hear a rooster crow on your way to the main entrance. Students in two “food crew” classes help prepare scratch-cooked meals for more than 200 students and teachers every day but Wednesday, which is a half day. Under the direction of Dain Holland, the school’s farm and food manager, they make entrees like bison bolognese, sesame orange chicken, cheeseburgers, and Vietnamese bánh mì sandwiches, all of which adhere to federal school nutrition guidelines.

STEAD, which enrolls more than 400 students, isn’t the only school in Colorado with a student-powered lunch program. Compass Montessori, a charter school in Je erson County where some STEAD sta previously worked, has long had a similar set up.

At STEAD, the lunch initiative came about partly out of necessity. When the school opened in 2021, a neighboring district provided lunches — “kind of your standard reheat-and-serve” fare, Holland said. But after two years, the district decided to discontinue its contract with STEAD.

at’s when Holland, who previously worked as a chef at restaurants like Den-

SEE LUNCH, P17

Hospitals rationing intravenous fluids

National

BY JACKIE FORTIÉR KFF HEALTH NEWS

Hospitals around the country are conserving critical intravenous uid supplies to cope with a shortage that may last months. Some hospital administrators say they are changing how they think about IV uid hydration altogether.

Hurricane Helene, which hit North Carolina in September, wrecked a Baxter International facility that produces 60% of the IV uids used in the U.S., according to the American Hospital Association. e company was forced to stop production and is rationing its products. In an update posted Nov. 7, Baxter said its North Cove facility had resumed producing some IV uids. In an email to KFF Health News, the company wrote that customers will be able to order normal quantities of “certain IV solutions products” by the end of the year, but there is no timeline for when the North Cove facility will be back to prehurricane production levels.

Meanwhile, hospitals are facing seasonal strains on their already limited IV uid resources, said Sam Elgawly, chief of resource stewardship at Inova, a health system in the Washington, D.C., area.

“We’ve been very aggressive in our conservation measures,” Elgawly said, stressing that he does not believe patient care has been compromised. He told KFF Health News that across the system IV uid usage has dropped 55% since early October.

Elgawly called the shortage a crisis that he expects to have to continue managing for some time. “We are going to operate under the assumption that this is going to be the way it is through the end of 2024 and have adopted our demand/conservation measures accordingly,” he said.

At the end of the calendar year, many patients with insurance hurry to schedule surgical procedures before their deductibles reset in January. Elgawly is eyeing that typical surgical rush and the impending peak of respiratory virus season as he tries to stockpile IV uid bags. Hospitals such as Inova’s are using di erent ways to conserve, such as giving some medications intravenous-

CHALKBEAT COLORADO

A member of Eastlake’s flock of turkeys peers through a bush Nov. 19.

PHOTO BY SCOTT TAYLOR

NEW BRIEFS

Snow Trooper helps get you through the storm

When the akes start falling, Commerce City Public Works hits the road to plow nearly 300 lane miles of streets in the city.

To help you prepare for a safe commute, the city’s online Snow Trooper map shows which roads have been plowed and how recently. Visit snowtrooper. c3gov.com to see the treatment map and priority level of streets along your route. As a reminder, the city does not plow state roads, such as Highway 85, Interstates 270 and 76, and Brighton Boulevard. Learn more about the city’s snow response plan at c3gov.com/Snow.

Legislators to discuss priorities at business breakfast

e Adams County Regional Economic Partnerships hosts its 2025 Legislative Breakfast from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at Northglenn’s Parsons, eater.

is is an opportunity to hear from and connect with in uential business leaders, state lawmakers, and advocates while gaining a better understanding of the legislative landscape that will shape our business and community environment in the year ahead.

https://businessinthornton.com/localbusiness/small-business-support-programs/business- nancial-assistance.

CCPD o ers online crime reporting form

e Commerce City Police Department has a new online reporting tool allowing the public to report some nonemergency 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 o cer intervention, such as fraud, identity theft, lost property, theft/shoplifting (less than $2,000), and vandalism.

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.

Help for vets

Quali ed Listeners, a veteran and family resource hub serving northern Colorado and southern Wyoming, has many power chairs, scooters, and electric wheelchairs available.

To nd the closest facility to you, visit www.va.gov/ nd-locations.

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 (1-844-4938255), 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.

As a special e ort this year, we will be collecting unwrapped gifts for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver through the Together for Colorado Toy Drive. For additional information, please contact Trista Borrego – Trista.Borrego@ ac-rep.org or (720) 758-8384.

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.

Alliance Business Assistance Center grants available

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 Ofce and e Link, a community resource and assessment center in ornton, offer free, 10-week programs to families of Adams County teenagers to help develop personal and interpersonal drugresistance skills. Sessions are from 5:30 to 6;30 p.m. Wednesdays. Call 720-2922811.

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/70316b05422 c448492c51da0f0e0fd86/ to sign up.

Walk with a doc

Quali ed Listeners also need volunteers to drive veterans to and from appointments, run errands 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 720600-0860.

Mental health

Community Reach Center o ers inperson 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.

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 u-like symptoms before entering the center to ensure safety and wellness for everyone.

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

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 resource 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 720-6000860.

Food distribution

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 assist residents by helping to identify grants that align with their business goals and industry, providing guidance through the application process, ensuring that they have the best chance of success and providing other valuable resources for local business. To get started, visit our website at

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

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/workforce-business-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.

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.

Warm Line up and running

Community Reach Center is o ering a Warm Line (303-280-6602) for those who want to talk to mental health professionals about anxiety, lack of sleep, and

27J Schools have free grab-and-go meals for youngsters up to age 18. Driveby 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.

SEE BRIEFS, P16

Happy Thanksgiving! This Is When I Like to Share What and Whom I Am Grateful for

Just being healthy is something anyone should be grateful for, especially at my age of 77. I’m doubly blessed, because my wife Rita, 76, is also healthy! Our siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other relatives are healthy, too.

All of us are aware that not everyone is as lucky as we are, so philanthropic giving is a trait I think all of us share, and I know many readers of this column do, too. And our broker associates, who responded as one to sponsoring and providing side dishes for Dignity Tuesday, share that trait, too. Last week, as a group we donated food to Dignity Tuesday for people less fortunate than us . The event took place at Golden Pantry and Thrift, formerly the Christian Action Guild.

this long-running newspaper column. I particularly appreciate those readers who take the time to write to me, suggesting topics they want me to write about or making me aware of an issue that might have escaped my attention. Therefore, I have to say that I’m especially grateful to the publications who have made it possible for me to publish this column so widely.

er demographic that is perfect for this column. Those are my most faithful readers — although some of them object to my progressive views!

stay ahead of the competition.” I couldn’t stay as informed as I am — and keep my readers informed — without Inman in my back pocket. I mean, my inbox!

I’m grateful for Chuck Lontine, the owner of The Cloud, 96.9 FM, who organized Dignity Tuesday, which he started during the pandemic. He is a man with a big heart, and I salute him.

I’m grateful for the community we live in and for the larger metro Denver community. As most of you know, Dec. 10th is Colorado Gives Day, and I recently learned about its origins. It was started in 2010, when it was reported that Colorado was 50th on the list of states when it came to charitable giving. Thanks to the Colorado Gives Foundation, Colorado now ranks at the top of that list.

When thinking about who I’m grateful for, our clients — most of whom came to us from reading this column each week — come to mind immediately. Thank you for calling me, so I don’t have to call you! It is so nice that I don’t have to sell myself to prospective sellers and buyers. They come to me “pre-sold” thanks to

Thank you, Linda Shapley, the publisher of Colorado Community Media, for making it possible for this column to appear is all 24 of your weekly newspapers. And, I should add thanks to the National Trust for Local News and the Colorado Sun, which purchased CCM in 2021 with a commitment to saving community newspapers. If it weren’t for them and their non-profit model, some of those 24 newspapers, including this one, might not be around today.

My first big newspaper contract was with the Rocky Mountain News, when they created the YourHub section in 2005. When the Rocky ceased publishing in 2009, YourHub was the only piece of the Rocky which The Denver Post picked up and promoted. I like to think that my full-page ad 52 times per year might be a factor in justifying YourHub’s continuation. Thank you, The Denver Post, for continuing that publication so that I can continue reaching your readers all across the metro area.

Lastly, in this department, my thanks to Dan Johnson of the Denver Gazette for soliciting my account this October and making an offer I couldn’t refuse to include this full-page ad in your digital newspaper. Typical of printed newspapers, the Gazette has a mature homeown-

Moving, Even Locally, Can Cost You a Lot

At Golden Real Estate, we like to save you money wherever we can. For example, we have a handyman who can help you get your home ready to show or fix inspection issues at the client-only rate of $30/ hour.

We also have a box truck which you can use prior to, during and after closing, not just for moving to your new home, but making those dump runs or runs to Goodwill for donating all that stuff you accumulated over the years!

and packing material, including bubble wrap, so don’t buy any yourself.

We’ve been offering the use of this truck since 2004. In fact, this is our second truck. It’s hard to estimate how much money we have saved our buyers and sellers, but it must be several hundred thousands of dollars.

We also provide free moving boxes

We also make the truck available free to nonprofits and local organizations, such as Family Promise and BGoldN, which uses it to do pickups from Food Bank of the Rockies for local food banks.

I’m also grateful to my professional colleagues, especiallyfellow Realtors, who are among my most regular readers. And the Realtor association itself (the Denver Metro Association of Realtors or DMAR) does important work keeping us up to date on industry developments.

Just as important, in that regard, is the Inman News, which provides an endless stream of important email newsletters keeping me abreast of industry developments, innovations and challenges, which sometimes inspire a topic for this column. It describes itself as “the leading real estate news source for real estate agents, Realtors, brokers, real estate executives and real estate technology leaders who need the latest real estate news, insights and analysis to grow their business and

My broker associates, listed below, play an invaluable role in the day-to-day operation of Golden Real Estate. They are wonderfully diverse in their skills and backgrounds, and they help to staff our storefront office in downtown Golden seven days a week. They get wonderful reviews from the past clients, which you can read by clicking on the “Testimonials” tab at www.GoldenRealEstate.com

Here’s a Holiday Gift Giving Idea

Colorado Giving Foundation sells digital “Giving Cards.” Specify the dollar amount and who to send it to, and the recipient can then go to ColoradoGives.org where they can “spend” it as they wish. Give to clients, friends, children, et al. I’m going to make that my holiday giving! The sellers bought

$650,000

Many Agents Are Taking a Continuing Education Class That Will Be Obsolete on January 1st

All licensed real estate professionals in Colorado are required to take the Annual Commission Update (ACU) class as part of their continuing education requirement to stay licensed.

The class can be taken at any time during the calendar year, with a new version introduced each January.

At Golden Real Estate, I incentivize our broker associates by reimbursing the $40 cost of the 4-hour class if they take it in January. It can be taken either online or in-person. That’s how important I think it is to be current on the everevolving rules that we must comply with and to learn about the latest revisions to the contract forms we must use.

Many licensees, however, don’t take this CE class until the last minute. I asked some of the major providers of the course for their enrollment figures to see how many licensees wait until the 4th quarter to take the class.

One of the biggest providers of CE classes is DMAR’s PEAK program, and Lisa Kallweit, DMAR’s director of member services, couldn’t give me this quarter’s enrollment numbers, but provided these numbers for the 4th quarter of the last three years.

2021 - 429 agents

2022 - 372 agents

2023 - 331 agents

Another big provider is Educated Minds. They have 393 agents enrolled so far this quarter and reported these numbers for the past three years:

2021 - 802 agents

2022 - 719 agents

2023 - 652 agents

It seems such a waste to take the ACU class at the end of the year, when the new ACU class is coming in January. Also, how many things did agents learn in December that they should have known 10 months earlier?

Golden Real Estate’s Broker Associates

David Dlugasch

303-908-4835

Joined us in 2014

Licensed in 2001

Jim Swanson

303-929-2727

Joined us in 2008

Licensed in 2000

Chuck Brown

303-885-7855

Joined us in 2014

Licensed in 2000

You’ll

and

by

through

years. For example, a sunroom was added over the back of the garage (visible in this picture) which is open to the kitchen and which opens to a deck with stairs down to a wood deck in the backyard. All the rooms have either hardwood or manufactured hardwood floors. The updated kitchen has an 18-inch ceramic tile floor, quartz countertop with undermount stainless steel sink and newer appliances. All the bathrooms have been updated, too. Even the driveway was updated with new concrete in an attractive pattern. You’ll love watching the

from the deck outside the front door next to the garage. Video tour and pictures at www.ArvadaHome.info. Open Saturday 11am to 1pm.

Greg Kraft

720-353-1922

Joined us in 2022

Licensed in 1982

Kathy Jonke

303-990-7428

Joined us in 2023

Licensed in 2002

Don’t be misled by our name. Our agents have listed homes throughout the Denver Metro area and helped clients buy homes and other real estate all over Colorado!

Annual Colorado Gives Day takes place on Dec. 10

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

‘The ultimate feel-good event’

Whether a nonpro t organization has participated in Colorado Gives Day for one year or for 10, is large or small, the Colorado Gives Foundation continues to support thousands of nonpro ts across the state in the hopes of connecting people and ideas.

“Colorado Gives Day is really an opportunity to be part of the statewide movement,” said Kelly Dunkin, president and CEO of the Colorado Gives Foundation. “I think of it as the ultimate feel-good event.”

Colorado Gives Day launched in 2010 and has become one of the state’s largest 24-hour giving events. Taking place on the second Tuesday every December, which this year is Dec. 10, Coloradans can use the Colorado Gives Day website to nd a cause they want to support and can donate any amount.

However, early giving kicked o on the rst of November.

While people can donate to Colorado Gives all year long, Dunkin said donations during early giving and on Colorado Giving Day gets a boost from the foundation’s $1 Million + Incentive Fund.

When it comes to volunteering and

The Colorado Gives Foundation sees an uptake in the number of donations during the annual Colorado Gives Day fundraising event, which takes place on Dec. 10 this year.

The sun sets early in the mountains. But Black Hawk lights up. With five distinct dining options.

Spy the snowfall from the rooftop spa.

Or, feel the heat from the expansive gaming floor, Where there’s no limit on the fun.

The sun may set early, But here, we play bright.

Experience the holidays.

Breaking barriers with food and stories

BY ROSSANA LONGO BETTER ROSSANA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In a nation shaped by the resilience, creativity and dedication of immigrant communities, the “Cocina Libre” project stands as a testament to their profound contributions. Co-author Julia Roncoroni blends traditional recipes with powerful personal narratives, amplifying immigrant voices, challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers.

As we approach the holidays, when families and friends nationwide gather to celebrate, “Cocina Libre” arrives at the perfect time, o ering recipes that can bring a unique, avorful touch to the holidays with some spice, avor and color.

In May 2024, “Cocina Libre” launched two signi cant projects: a book and a documentary. Since then, the initiative has sold 525 copies of the book and reached the No. 1 spot on Amazon’s New Releases category.

Today, “Cocina Libre” operates as a social enterprise o ering dinners, cooking classes and diversity workshops, all led by immigrant chefs. Each event begins with preparing cultural dishes, followed by storytelling and meaningful connections. All pro ts are used to provide immigrant chefs with professional culinary training and support to obtain the licenses start their own food businesses.

Julia Roncoroni joined La Ciudad to discuss “Cocina Libre,” its impact, and how cooking breaks barriers and builds opportunities.

is interview has been edited for

length and clarity.

Colorado Community Media: Julia, before we dive into “Cocina Libre,” I would love to hear about your background. What inspired you to co-author this project? How did your experiences shape your approach to creating a book that blends food, storytelling and social justice?

Julia Roncoroni: at’s a good question. I’m an immigrant from Argentina. I’m a licensed psychologist. I’ve worked with immigrants for 15 years at this point.

I am also a tenured associate professor at the University of Denver. My co-author, Dr. Delio Figueroa, is a music educator from Puerto Rico who studies identity development in the diaspora and has also worked with immigrants at this point maybe the same amount of time.

And sitting with our clients or students we started to notice that many of the stories of resilience in our communities needed to be better known.

When we love each other and connect, we eat, cook, and eat. So we gured that combining food and storytelling would be a good vehicle for communicating some of these stories and generating empathy. at’s how we started.

CCM: Could you share stories or recipes that resonate with you? And how do these personal accounts help to counter the negative stereotypes often associated with immigration? How do these personal accounts help counter the negative stereotypes often associated with immigration?

Roncoroni: One that comes to mind

in the context that we’re living in these weeks is the story of Lila. Lila came from Venezuela, and there’s a lot of rhetoric about why Venezuelans have come to the U. S. most recently, right? In meeting Lila, I was struck by the number of barriers that she faced leaving Venezuela, going rst to Colombia, and then crossing the Darien jungle with her two adolescent daughters, not knowing if she would survive, not knowing if she would be able to be with her children, because they were doing mostly OK. But she hurt her foot and didn’t know if she could escape the jungle.

She only intended to get an education for her children, knowing that currently, there are very few high school teachers in Venezuela, and her daughters were high school students. at story is an excellent example of the struggles that many of our immigrants will go through just to be here to work, just to be here to give their families — their children — a better life.

CCM: Each recipe and story of “Cocina Libre” provides an intimate perspective on immigrants’ lives, celebrating culture and resiliency while also exposing painful realities like detention and family separation. How do you think food and storytelling can serve as social justice tools?

Roncoroni: We all eat, and we all like food. We don’t necessarily like the same, but we all like food. So, we often start our workshops by asking people to think of food tied to an emotional memory. We all can do that. It doesn’t matter if it is Abuelita (Grandmother) making bacalaitos or tamales (or) empanadas, or if

it is a special dish from the country you come from, what culture or group you come from. We all can think of foods that have touched our hearts and foods that feel like home. So food is a phenomenal vehicle for saying, “ is is who I am.” is is what I’m here to give. So often we talk about immigrants as coming here with nothing, and that’s absolutely not true. Immigrants come here with cultural backgrounds, stories to tell and stories we can learn from. Both Delio and I think that food is a really good vehicle for building community and fostering empathy. CCM: Some say the country’s power is in uniting di erent ethnicities and that everybody coming here is to give the best of the best, and that’s a reason small businesses — especially those from small communities, from ethnic communities — really thrive. So, it is this beautiful thing we eat wonderful food because of that.

Roncoroni: One of the things we do when we start our workshops is ask people, were you born in Colorado? If you trace your family three, four, or ve generations back, they were born in Colorado, right? Colorado is especially a state where we have so much immigration, not necessarily from Venezuela or Mexico, although we also have that, but we are a state that’s built by immigrants, right? So, this is a project by immigrants and for immigrants, too. ere’s this misconception. I think I’m Latina, but when I think about Lati-

SEE RONCORONI, P7

MUST READ. GREAT FOR BOOK CLUBS.

A womanizing US president. Gin-drinking, poker-playing, skirt-chasing Cabinet members. And a plot from the inside to usurp control of the Navy’s oil reserves. Wild and juicy stuff this. And all of it a true chapter of America’s history.

There may not be another US scandal that is so heavy with corruption and criminality that weighs so lightly on our collective consciousness as the Teapot Dome Scandal. From 1920 to 1922, power-hungry politicians and corporate tycoons boldly schemed to steal the nation’s newest energy resourcel. In so doing these crooks put a black mark on the pioneering work of those who gave birth to Wyoming’s incredible bonanza.

With a deft researcher’s hand and the heart and attention of a creative writer, Constance Bierkan has written a rst-of-its-kind ctionalized recounting of what led up to this nearly forgotten nugget from the past, the Teapot Dome Scandal. Like No Place on Earth is a spirited coming-of-age story set in Wyoming at the start of the madcap Roaring Twenties and the birth of the oil industry. As much a love story as it is a historical deep-dive, Like No Place on Earth will be irresistible to book clubs and history buffs alike.

Constance Bierkan grew up in Zürich, Switzerland and London, England. She sat her Ordinary and Advanced Level exams administered by the University of London while in high school at Francis Holland and earned a BA in English Literature with a minor in Semantics from Skidmore College and Goucher College. She also worked toward a Master’s at Fair eld University in Psychology. Bierkan’s debut novel, Alone In A Crowded Room - An Adoption Story, published in 2017, received a Kirkus Star and was named Kirkus Best Book Indie 2018. Free To Breathe is her second outing and it captures one boy’s struggle to emerge from an abusive family and nd authentic loving relationships. Her third, In Spite of It All, is a historical ction piece, wherein the history of Hitler’s propaganda art is married to a race of high jinks to rescue it from the wrong hands. Fluent in French and German, Bierkan loves to read, people watch, work puzzles, travel and off-road in her badass Jeep Wrangler. She and her best friend-husband-Naval-Aviator-veteran-airline-pilotgentlemantree-farmer, live at 8,200 feet in the Rocky Mountains.

RONCORONI

nos, there’s this misconception that we’re all the same. One thing that comes up often is empanadas and tamales. at is tied to growing up in Argentina, and having empanadas is a big one. My empanadas are my Argentinian empanadas.

But I love empanadas from all over Latin America, and they don’t smell or taste like the empanadas made by my mom.

CCM: You just reminded me of all the different kinds of empanadas from my country of origin, Ecuador. e ones that are made out of green plantains are the best. I’m getting out of the script, but have you heard from the immigrants you interviewed and featured in this beautiful book with their recipes how they managed to create recipes without the ingredients they were used to having in their countries?

Roncoroni: at’s an interesting question

because it again shows the power of food, right? Food is identity and is also history. For many of our immigrants, they adapt, food is resilience and adaptability because they sometimes have to use ingredients that they successfully nd in Colorado, in this case, and sometimes they don’t. For a long time, we had a scarcity of “harina pan” a special our to make arepas, and so it was a struggle for some of our South Americans. Some people ask if they could eat something else. Of course, they could. But again, this ingredient is who I am, and this is what we do as a family.

ere’s a relational element to food that sometimes gets lost when we trade who we are. And there’s acculturation that happens in food also, right? People will say, “I work with a student at the University of Denver who’s in the master’s program in counseling psychology, and she says that her family is Italian, but they live in Southern California.”

And so they make spaghetti tacos and gure it out. But it’s the power of food. It’s that adaptability: ey didn’t like spicy food, but liked tacos. And how do we blend with what’s

around us, too?

CCM: Julia, “Cocina Libre” is pretty much a labor of love and heart. It supports the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition while opening doors for many immigrant chefs. As you look to the future, what is your vision for “Cocina Libre” and what impact can it continue to have?

Roncoroni: We have donated all the proceeds from our rst book to the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition. As we’re building this social enterprise, we intend to continue supporting immigrants. We’re launching our podcast in January 2025, which will be under the undergraduate and graduate students at the University of Denver.

We’re launching our next documentary in the fall of 2025, so stay tuned. We have a website where we post all of our events and community activities. e website is Cocina Libre and we also have an Instagram page called (@ CocinaLibre_Collective). We post everything we do on those two sources.

Let’s honor immigrant stories, build bridges together, and join us for a meal.

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“Cocina Libre” co-author Julia Roncoroni blends traditional recipes with powerful personal narratives, amplifying immigrant voices, challenging stereotypes and breaking down barriers. COURTESY PHOTO

Is Black Friday still worth the hype?

With many feelings toward the economy this year, whether it’s good or bad, whenever Black Friday rolls around, we can’t help but feel a little tempted to take a peek at the deals. Perhaps it’s because we have been waiting for a fabulous clothing item to nally go on sale or because we get possessed by the holiday spirit and want to buy gifts for all of our loved ones without breaking the bank. Even as a kid, I would collect loose change throughout the year and save it in an empty oatmeal tub or in one of my mom’s crystal jars, and the day before anksgiving I would go to the bank and exchange my coins for big bucks. e most I would get would be about $100 to $150, which doesn’t get you a whole lot today, but back then?

I started doing this in 2012 so $100 back then had the same buying power as $144.27 today, according to the CPI Ination Calculator of the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Black Friday over time

According to History, the term “Black Friday” comes from when stores would record losses in red and pro ts in black

while doing their accounting, however this is deemed as “inaccurate,” but it’s the go-to tale for the origins of Black Friday. What History deems as the “real history” behind Black Friday, is that the day after anksgiving in the 1950s in Philadelphia, a hoard of tourists and residents came into the city in advance to watch the big Army-Navy Football game the following Saturday. Cops in Philadelphia described the chaotic dark day of long shifts and tra c as “Black Friday.”

Around the 1980s, stores began trying to reinvent Black Friday, going back to the earlier idea of red meaning loss and black meaning pro t and moving the meaning of the term away from the dark days in Philadelphia history. e rebranding was successful. Black Friday has expanded from being a singular day of the year full of “can’t beat the price” deals to a whole week, sometimes even two weeks, depending on the retailers. Of course, with the digital age Black Friday has also expanded to “Cyber Monday,” where you can get online deals on just whatever you can imagine.

With a focused heart and mind, you can traverse your mountain

Our heart and mindset can carry us through any di culty. For me, there is an explorer who I think of when I need to be reminded of this idea.

Ernest Shackleton was an Irish born explorer who led an expedition to cross Antarctica on dog sleds. Shackleton planned extensively for the 1914 trip, studying and seeking to prepare for every contingency. Months after starting out, the ship that Shackleton enlisted, e Endurance, became trapped and eventually was crushed by sea ice near the edge of Antarctica. is disaster left the expedition without shelter or transportation, stuck alone near the bottom of the world. With this devastating turn of events, Shackleton moved his goal from crossing Antarctica to seeing that the entire crew survived the ordeal. With that change in emphasis, he and the expedition began a heroic crossing of ice and sea in unbelievably di cult conditions.

After traveling 600 nautical miles in little more than row boats, it became clear that a smaller party would need to leave the main group and attempt to reach help. To save the group, Shackleton and ve others made a very dangerous 850mile open ocean crossing and eventually reached South Georgia Island. Landing on this sparsely populated land was not enough. To save the crew, the group needed to go to the shing post on the opposite side of the island and their only option for getting there was to cross a very dangerous set of island mountains… in the dead of winter.

Once on land, the men took assessment of what they had to support their climb and three people were selected to hike the island. e trio had limited

ere are even events like “Small Business Saturdays,” where you can support local shops by checking out their deals and even “Travel Tuesday” which is best for snagging discounts on airfares and cruises.

While Black Friday is now a somewhat positive American shopping holiday connected to Christmas and good tidings, over time it has shown us a side of consumers that well… you can take a look at this video and see for yourself.

We have all perhaps received emails from stores notifying us that their Black Friday sales have started already, but why is that? Despite the chaos that still follows Black Friday, it’s not only human nature that has changed Black Friday’s rollout of sales, but also shopping habits.

It’s simple. According to Time magazine, the reasons for the expansion of Black Friday to Black Friday week (or weeks) is retail competitiveness, and customers pulling back on discretionary spending due to in ation.

“ ey want to pull in people to shop now, because if they leave it too late, they’re afraid customers may go elsewhere,” Neil Saunders, a managing director at the research rm GlobalData, said

to Time.

With all that in mind, is Black Friday still worth it?

ere are so many things to consider when it comes to answering this question.

Shopping is like dating

One thing to consider is the quality of items that often go on sale. For example, when it comes to clothing, CU Boulder professor of theater and environmental studies Beth Osnes states that “clothing is one of our most intimate relationships that we have with a thing.”

CNBC Reporter Jessica Dickler wrote that Black Friday is a great time to nd the best prices on fall clothing, along with televisions and electronics.

However, shopping for clothes is like dating: You can’t just latch on to the rst sweater sale you see! You should get to know the item that you are about to buy in multiple colors or in bulk because of how seemingly “good” the deal is.

One way that you can make the most of your Black Friday budget is to study fabric labels. If you have a favorite cloth-

food and only carried 50 feet of rope, screws they pushed through the soles of their shoes and a carpenter’s cutting tool for the climb. With these simple items, the party made the 32-mile overland journey in 36 hours and ultimately saved the whole crew.

e entire adventure is a spectacular achievement, but the nal overland journey is a thing of wonder. How could a malnourished, ill-equipped group of three cross a mountain range in the middle of winter? Two groups have since made treks covering the same route Shackleton and his two companions traversed. Both groups were rested, well nourished, equipped with the newest technology, and dumbfounded by what the Shackleton group accomplished. People continue to try to explain how the team could make that type of hike under such conditions. I believe the explanation for their success lies in the heart and mindset of Shackleton. Ernest Shackleton had a singular focus and drive. He believed in his core that they could overcome the ordeal. It made all the di erence for the expedition.

We, like Shackleton, have an ability to do amazing things in the middle of unexpected struggles. It is very important, that as we as individuals work to overcome our struggles, we remember that we have everything we need to be successful.

Like Shackleton, with a focused heart and mind, you can traverse your mountain.

I hope that you will nd inspiration in my words and share those words of encouragement with those who need it. I would love to hear from you as you nd helpful morsels in these columns and as you nd ways to encourage those around you. I can be contacted at jim. roome@gmail.com.

Jim Roome lives in Arvada with his wife Beth. He spent 34 years in public education. Lessons learned from the one two punch of being diagnosed with MS shortly before his best friend was diagnosed with terminal cancer led him into a new pursuit as a freelance writer and speaker. He uses his life experiences and love of stories to inspire, educate and encourage local, national and international audiences.

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Jim Roome

ing item at home and like the way that it drapes over your body and how it feels, read the fabric label. You can’t go wrong with buying something you already know you like. It’s also important to keep in mind that half of the items that go on sale are because they’re not selling. at is one tip that has helped me stay stylish and save money that my boyfriend, who works in retail, passed along to me.

ese tips don’t only apply to clothes, but also electronics. Get to know your product and nd what best suits your needs, especially when it comes to buying a TV. According to the personal nance website NerdWallet, the models that are advertised as the doorbuster deals are models that are speci cally made for Black Friday. “ ese sale-speci c models are known as derivatives and may feature cheaper components and fewer features than more expensive versions,” wrote personal nance writer Tommy Tindall.

Samantha Gordon, a deals editor at Consumer Reports, told NerdWallet that when it comes to buying a TV on Black Friday, “just make sure how many HDMI ports you need.” While it may be di cult to ag down a retail employee amid the chaos of Black Friday to tell you what model is best for you, I suggest doing research ahead of time so that you can bolt straight to the TV you want once doors open.

Watch for sales throughout the year

While this doesn’t apply to Black Friday events such as Travel Tuesday, which is exclusively on the Tuesday after anksgiving, some stores will actually have better deals during semi-annual sales, warehouse sales, holiday-related sales or backto-school sales than the ones you see on Black Friday. Sometimes stores will even have a pre-Black Friday sale in the middle of summer.

Typical Black Friday sales often look like 30% o your entire purchase, BOGO free, or the most greedy one, “Buy four, get one free.” While they can help you save money, it’s important to remember that Black Friday is not the only day when you can save money.

So keep your eye out for sales, like back in the days when people would study sale catalogs that came in the mail or with your newspaper. It’s as simple as that. While some stores do o er exclusive Black Friday items, it’s good to check your options. Although the only down side of this consideration is that time is against you. Retailers know that,and that’s why we sometimes fall so easily for the sales.

Whether you decide to acknowledge Black Friday or sleep in after anksgiving Day, it is up to you because shopping is di erent for everyone. Perhaps this indi erence toward the consumerist holiday can be best explained by reddit user, Berns429 who wrote “Furthermore (Black Friday) was one day of sales, doorbusters at 5 a.m., etc. Now, ‘Black Friday sales’ happen in July. Desensitizing has occurred.”

With anksgiving here, many of us naturally pause to re ect on the blessings in our lives. Gratitude is woven into the fabric of this season, encouraging us to appreciate what we have and acknowledge those who have touched our lives. Yet, while giving thanks often peaks during this time, it’s worth asking: How can we make gratitude a constant presence in our lives rather than a eeting seasonal habit?

Gratitude is one of the most profound human emotions. It centers us, helps us nd

sistently a rmed its transformative power. Many have shared how focusing on gratitude has helped them navigate challenges and embrace the beauty in everyday life. is feedback underscores a truth I’ve observed: Gratitude is a gateway to peace and contentment. However, gratitude is more than an individual feeling; it is deeply interconnected with values that shape how we live and interact with the world. Gratitude has a ripple e ect. It reveals itself through gentleness, kindness, grace, peace, and compassion when practiced intentionally. Gratitude is not an isolated act; it touches every aspect of our lives. ink about a time when you felt genuinely grateful, perhaps during a quiet moment with a loved one, a gesture of unexpected kindness, or a hard-won personal achieve-

ment. at gratitude likely came with a softer heart, kinder words, or more extraordinary patience. e more we cultivate gratitude, the more these qualities emerge in our behavior, deepening relationships and strengthening character. And here’s the beauty: the more we embody gentleness, kindness, and grace, the more gratitude we tend to feel. It’s a virtuous cycle, a self-sustaining loop where gratitude fuels peace, and peace fuels gratitude. We must guard against eeting gratitude. How often do we express thanks in a moment, only to let the feeling fade when life’s challenges resurface? True peace and contentment require us to anchor gratitude as a daily habit, not just a passing thought. Cultivating mindfulness is one way to do this. Pay attention to the small blessings that surround us each day: the warmth of the sun, the sound of laughter, or the steady rhythm of our breath. ese moments ground us in appreciation.

Another powerful practice is expressing gratitude outwardly. Tell someone how much they mean to you. Write a note, send a text, or say the words face-to-face. ese acts of acknowledgment deepen gratitude and

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e start of the season

A listing of holiday events in the Northern Metro area

Wednesday, Dec. 4

Sunday, Dec. 1

Irish Christmas in America: e Show: e Holidays with an Irish Twist! Irish Christmas in America brings a fascinating performance of music, song, dance and stories to Northglenn’s Parsons eater at 2 p.m. Dec. 1.

Produced by Sligo ddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, the hugely popular Irish Christmas in America show features top Irish music, song and dance in an engaging performance rich in humor and energy. is family-friendly performance features lively instrumental tunes on ddle, ute, uilleann pipes and harp, along with thrilling Irish dancing. In addition, evocative photographic images provide a backdrop to some of the rich historical traditions of Ireland. Take a memo-

Commerce City Holiday Tree Lighting: Bring the family and friends for an evening of holiday music, treats, giveaways, crafts community cheer and more from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Civic Center, 7887 E. 60th Ave.

Friday, Dec. 6

Noel Northglenn: e City of Northglenn kicks o the holiday celebration from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Parsons entrance of the Northglenn Recreation Center at 1 E. Memorial Parkway. Many of the most popular events from past festivals will be back! Santa will be on hand and ready to take pictures with the families – whether they are free (taken with your own phone) or $5 per photo with a professional photographer. Mrs. Claus will be there too, sharing her favorite holiday songs. ere will be free crafts for the kids, carriage

Historic Westminster Home Town Christmas: e Westminster Historical Society hosts this annual event featuring carolers, roasted chestnuts and visits with Santa from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Fireman’s Park, 7290 Bradburn Blvd. Stick around for the lighting of the park’s 100 year old Christmas tree, reportedly the tallest living Christmas tree in the state.

Saturday, Dec. 7

Northglenn Holiday Bike Giveaway: Free refurbished bicycles of all sizes will be given away on a rst-come, rstserved basis beginning at 9 a.m. at the Stonehocker Farmhouse, 10950 Fox Run Parkway. Registration is not needed, just stop by before they’re all gone!

dors o ering handmade holiday crafts, homemade gifts and other treats. Admission is $5 and children 12 and younger are free.

Westminster Dodgeball Tournament: Gather a team of friends, pick out some costumes and get ready to do battle in a good-natured contest to the top all day at the Westview Rec Center, 10747 W. 108th Ave. e fee is $150 per team. Register at the city’s website, https:// shorturl.at/Wiejy. Olde Fashioned Christmas: Northglenn’s Stonehocker Farmhouse, 10950 Fox Run Parkway, will host the annual celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy holiday music as soon as you enter the door from local performers and browse a ordable baked goods, gifts and stocking stu ers in the kitchen. Santa awaits upstairs to take photos with the kids.

Victorian Christmas Open House: e Westminster Historical Society presents open house tours of the Bowles House Museum at 3924 72nd Ave. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. o ering free tours and refresh-

Cookies and cocoa with Santa: Come visit with Santa, enjoy some cookies, do some crafts and have a professional photograph taken. ere are two sessions from 10 a.m. to noon and from 1-3 p.m. at the Fort Lupton Public Library, 370 S. Rollie Ave., Fort Lupton. Families will be given a number upon their entry through the Children’s Garden Gate (side exterior entrance). Numbers will be announced through a PA system, so make sure you are listening. Numbers will be called in groupings of 5. Digital photos will be

Brighton Cultural Arts Commission e cultural arts commission opens the Brighton Armory from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a holiday bazaar featuring homemade crafts and gifts, fun stocking stu ers and holiday treats.

Brighton Tree Lighting ceremony: e city’s annual holiday season opener runs from 1-6 p.m. at Founders Plaza, 5 S. Main St. e day kicks o as Santa comes to town and features free face painting and the Teddy Bear & Friends Tree. e Winter Market returns along South Main St. (near the plaza) featuring unique artists, crafters and artisan food vendors. e tree lighting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Contact Amy Porter at 303-655-2126 for more in-

ornton Sing Joy! Winter Concert: ornton’s Community Chorus will o er two performances of their annual holiday concert “Sing Joy!”, featuring holiday favorites at 3 p.m. and again at 6 p.m. in the McAllister Park Building, 750 W. 96th Ave. in ornton. Email thorntonchorus@ gmail.com for more information.

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Gingerbread House Competition: Northglenn hosts a competition for the best holiday builders, ages 10-17, and their families from 3-6 p.m. at the Northglenn Rec Center, 1 E. Memorial Parkway. See who can build the biggest, most creative, or most unique gingerbread building. Supplies will be provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own. While competing, enjoy a winter-themed movie, music snacks, and hot drinks. Contest rules and guidelines are online at www.northglenn.org/teens. e cost is $5.

Westminster Holiday Lights: e city of Westminster kicks o the countdown to Christmas at 5:30 p.m. with the annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony at City Hall, 4800 W. 92nd Ave. in Westminster. Come see the magical wonderland of lights, complete with holiday music, food vendors and visit from Santa Claus. ere will be a full-sized sleigh and miniature train for photos e event is free of charge and is presented by Intermountain Health in association with Amazon.

Sunday, Dec. 8

“Kantorei: Frostiana” A Choral Holiday: Northglenn Arts hosts this celebration of the season with Denver’s premier choral ensemble Kantorei performing favorite carols, old and new, at 2 p.m. at Northglenn’s Parsons eater, 1 East Memorial Parkway. Celebrate the magic of the season with a festive concert featuring beloved winter classics and contemporary holiday gems.

Featured in these performances will be Randall ompson’s beloved Frostiana, a seven-movement work setting the poetry of Robert Frost to music. ompson’s lyrical, expressive style perfectly captures the essence of Frost’s words, creating a musical landscape as vivid and evocative as New England in winter. Also included in the program is Eric Whitacre’s playful e Boy Who Laughed at Santa Claus, based on the poem by Ogden Nash; Ola Gjeilo’s Wintertide, a hauntingly beautiful work that evokes the quiet wonder of a snowy landscape; and Sarah Quartel’s A Winter’s Day, featuring cello and piano.

Tickets range from $23 to $32 with discounts for seniors and the military. Visit https://northglennarts.org/ for more information or to purchase tickets.

Wednesday, Dec. 11

Grand & Me Cocoa and Crafts: Bring a grand parent to the Northglenn Rec Center, 1 E. Memorial Parkway from 2-3 p.m. for a hot cocoa and some crafts. For ages 2-6 and 55 and older. e cost is free, but registration is necessary at the rec center. Ugly Sweater Luncheon: e Fort Lupton Chamber of Commerce with combine its monthly meeting with the annual Ugly Sweater Contest.

e chamber will present its State of the Chamber Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. at the Fort Lupton Recreation Center, 230 s. Harrision Ave. Lunch will be provided by Wholly Stromboli. To register, email executivedirector@fortluptonchamber.org.

Friday, Dec. 13

ornton Winterfest: the season with the city’s annual holiday celebration through Dec. 15 at the Carpenter Park Fields, 108th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. e festival opens at 6:30 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday and runs until 9 p.m. nightly.

e festival features Santa’s Village, with ice skating, ice carving, food vendors, a tree decorating contest, a beer garden and visits from Santa Claus himself. A holiday drone show featuring aerial lights set to holiday music is scheduled for 8 p.m. Friday and a holiday reworks show is set for 8:30 p.m. Saturday.

ornton Sensory-friendly Santa Claus: a bit much can come to the ornton Active Adult Center, 11181 Colorado Blvd., from 5-7:30 p.m. is event is intended for families who have di culty visiting Santa due to a disability or diverse sensory, physical or behavioral needs. Space is limited. Make your reservation online at goCOT.net/AIR and select Sensory Friendly Santa Reservations. Questions? Call 720977-5702.

Saturday, Dec. 14

ornton Breakfast with Santa: the day with a hearty breakfast and visit with St. Nick from 7:30-10:30 a.m at the ornton Active Adult Center, 11181 Colorado Blvd. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to enjoy a breakfast of pancakes, ham, eggs, orange juice and co ee. Cost is $6 for ages 13-61 and $4 for ages 0-12 and 62+. Photos with Santa taken with your personal device are encouraged. Questions? Call 303-255-7850. Sponsored by the 55+ Organization.

Thursday, Dec. 12

Westminster Holiday Luncheon at the Mac: Westminster hosts a traditional holiday feast from noon to 1:45 p.m. at the MAC at 3295 W. 72nd Ave. e menu will be brisket plus three side dishes, rolls, dessert and choice of punch or co ee with a live musical performance by Robert G. Tickets are $25 per person, registration must be made by Nov. 21.

ornton WinterFest 5K and Fun Run: e city’s signature winter run returns to Carpenter Park with a chip-timed 5K or the untimed Fun Run/Walk. e Fun Run/ Walk steps o at 10:10 a.m. followed by the 5K at 10:15 a.m. Collectible nisher mug with each registration. Visit winter5k.com for event details or call 720-977-5853 for more information.

Build a Bird Wreath at Standley Lake: Create beautiful works of art for birds and humans alike to enjoy during the holiday season, while learning more about the birds that call Standley Lake home. Meets at 10 a.m. the Standley Lake Regional Park, 11610 W 100th Ave, Westminster. e cost is $5 per person. Limited to 20 participants, register online at westminsterco.gov.

Motones & Jerseys: Holiday Hi-Fi: Back by popular demand, Motones & Jerseys: Holiday Hi-Fi features a stellar lineup of nine singers, backed by an incredible band, performing your favorite holiday classics alongside some of the greatest songs of the 20th century. While paying homage to the iconic vocal groups and holiday shows of the mid-century, the groups engage in a friendly and spirited sing-o that engages each audience member with the power to vote for their favorite group each and every performance via their smartphones.

Featuring songs from beloved artists like Marvin Gaye, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, e Temptations, e Beach Boys, Stevie Wonder, e Beatles, Herman’s Hermits, and many more. Join the Motones and the Jerseys for an evening of song, dance, and holiday fun!

Tickets range from $24-$32at the Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15. Visit https://northglennarts.org/ for more information or to purchase tickets.

Tiny Tots Celebrate the Holidays, a Family Orchestra Concert: Brighton celebrates the holidays withtwo favorite

things: families and music! is program will feature singalongs, fun holiday guests and traditional favorites with an Inside the Orchestra twist.

ere are two performances, at 9:30 a.m. and at 10:45 a.m. Tiny Tots programs are 45-minute immersive, interactive concerts for kids 7 and under (and their adults). Attendees are seated on the ground and encircled by our 30+ piece orchestra. Tickets are $17.50 per person for those over 12 months old.

Milk and Cookies with Santa: Sponsored and hosted by Brighton’s Alli Event Center, 100. S. 3rd St., this free event brings Santa and some treats from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a chance to visit with Santa. Parents should be prepared to take pictures, so bring a camera.

Brighton Festival of Lights Parade: e City of Brighton will host the 29th Annual Festival of Lights Parade starting at 5 p.m. downtown. e nighttime light parade is a hometown tradition and will feature up to 65 parade entries. e parade steps o at 5 p.m. on Denver Street, heading south along Main Street, turns east on Bridge Street and continues to 10th Avenue

Sunday, Dec. 15

BrightonMusic Christmas Festival Concert: e BrightonMusic Orchestra has brought live music to Brighton from its home in the First Presbyterian Church of Brighton for more than two decades. is year, the group hosts its 29th annual Christmas Festival concert at the First Presbyterian Church, 510 S. 27th Ave. All shows are scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. Go to https://brightonmusic.org/calendar/ for more information.

Advent Radio Players: Once again, the Advent Lutheran Church in Westminster will present a live reproduction of two old time radio programs at 1 p.m in Westminster’s Advent Lutheran Church, 7979 Meade St.

is year, the players tackle the adventures of “Archie Andrews,” a radio program based on the comic book characters of Archie, Jughead and Veronica. Advent players will re-enact the episode “Christmas Shopping” that originally aired Dec. 13, 1947. at will be followed by Blondie and Dagwood’s “A Christmas Carol”, which provides a very unique take on the Scrooge story.  It originally aired on Christmas Day 1939.

Original scripts are used as these are performed like a live radio show using several microphones, lighted applause and on the air signs and sounds from the original broadcasts in 1947 and 1939. Donations are appreciated.  e play will also be live streamed on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/adventwestminsterco

Saturday, Dec. 21

e Second City: e Good, e Bad and the Ugly Sweater: e Second City improvisational group continues its 65year tradition of delivering innovative, fast-paced satirical comedy with a fresh take on festive fun and presents an evening stu ed with seasonal songs, sketches and a generous helping of Second City’s world-famous improv comedy. Festive family gatherings, o ce parties, classic holiday movies… nothing is o limits! Tickets range from $36-$40 at the Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15. Visit https://northglennarts.org/ for more information or to purchase tickets.

Monday, Dec. 23

Westminster Winter Camp for Grades 1-8: Join Westminster’s City Park Recreation sta for daily trips and activities designed to stop the winter blues. e camp runs from 7 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. Dec. 23, 27, 30, 31 and Jan. 2, 3 and 6. For more information, go to www.westminsterco.gov/ WinterSpringCamp.

Santa poses for a photo behind Destinee and Kamiyah Bueno, 1, of Northglenn during the Northglenn Noel celebration in 2021. He’ll be back for this year’s celebration on Nov. 1. FILE PHOTO

December 7th & 8th, 14th & 15th 10 am - 5pm

European-Style Outdoor Marketplace

featuring over 30 Artisans, Food and more!

Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides

Alpine Biergarten

Wine & Wassail Bar

Shop and Dine at over 20 Merchants on Historic 6th Street

Live Entertainment

Santa Lucia Children’s Procession

Christmas at the Hamill House on Saturday December 14th and Saturday December 21st 2024. Tickets available on our website, www.historicgeorgetown.org

Saint Nicholas

Visit Historic Museums decorated in their Holiday Best

Big Horn Book Nook

Children’s Crafts at the John Tomay Library

Christmas Afternoon Tea at the Snetzer

Building

Hot Roasted Chestnuts

Dog Friendly (If your dog is friendly)

Free Parking & Free shuttles available

Featured on the TODAY show.

HISTORIC 6TH STREET GEORGETOWN, CO 80444

Polis schools budget smaller than expected

School leaders worry Polis will change course on funding promises

BY JASON GONZALES CHALKBEAT COLORADO

Colorado districts expect millions in cuts to what they anticipated receiving next year if changes proposed by Gov. Jared Polis make it into the 2025-26 budget.

Polis, who released his budget proposal on Nov. 1, has presented austerity measures due to the state facing an over half billion dollar budget hole.

His plan would increase school funding by about $115 million next year, bringing total spending to $9.8 billion. However, district leaders said that would be far less than what they are supposed to get, with school nance advocates calculating schools receiving about $190 million less next year if Polis’ changes are enacted. e powerful six-member Joint Budget Committee, which does the majority of the work crafting the budget, would need to adopt his proposals. Committee lawmakers have expressed concerns.

And district leaders in the Metro area worry that Polis’ budget framework opens up the possibility for the state to nd a new way to cut their budgets after lawmakers during the 2024 legislative session elimi-

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Colorado school districts are worried that cuts could be in future based on the budget proposed by Gov. Polis.

SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE

SCHOOLS

nated a practice this year that withholds money from schools for other priorities.

District leaders say the changes would also exacerbate funding disparities and lead to harmful cuts for students, especially in districts grappling with declining enrollment.

Ultimately, the JBC and Colorado General Assembly will have the most say on how the state proceeds in terms of the budget, said Chuck Carpenter, Denver Public Schools chief nancial o cer. e district likely won’t see a major impact in funding cuts compared to other districts if the proposal goes through.

But the proposal makes budget planning di cult and, if passed, would fail to meet the promises made last year by lawmakers. “ is is just another way where K-12 is used to balance the budget,” Carpenter said.

District leaders hoped for stability in the 2025-26 budget

During the 2024 legislative session, school o cials celebrated after lawmakers pushed to invest more in K-12 education.

Lawmakers eliminated the so-called budget stabilization factor after 15 years, which diverted constitutionally-mandated school funding for other priorities. ey also were able to approve a new school funding model that’s expected to boost state spending by $500 million. e law called for phasing the money in over six years and will better distribute state funding based on the types of students districts teach and help rural and smaller districts. e law also changed student en-

STREET

rollment counts from ve to four years for the purpose of the budget.

Polis’ budget proposal tries to address an about $640 million budget shortfall next scal year, partly due to rising costs in Medicaid. At the same time, the state is limited by the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights in how much revenue the state can keep.

His budget framework would change the student counts from the planned four-year average to a single year count. If lawmakers approve the change, this would have the biggest impact on schools with declining enrollment because averaging creates a multi-year bu er for them.

e governor also wants to slow the phase-in of the new school nance formula to seven years.

Je erson County School District Superintendent Tracy Dorland said her district has made hard decisions to close schools as enrollment has declined. In Colorado, many districts have experienced enrollment declines.

Any funding change would cause even more disruptions for her students and families, she said.

“ ey need to leave things alone for a minute so that we have some clarity and some stability in our revenue models,” Dorland said.

In proposing the change, Polis has pointed to the majority of states that use one-year counts. He also said his proposal would fend o any return to using the budget stabilization factor.

Nationally, since the pandemic, some states have started to do the opposite of what Polis has proposed, according to Christopher Duncombe, Education Commission of the States principal, who is a school nance expert.

He said a few states have opted to blend

enrollment across multiple years to protect districts with declining enrollment from nancial losses. For example, California allows districts to choose between a one-year count or a three-year average.

Tracie Rainey, Colorado School Finance Project executive director, added a change would also pull money away from schools during a time when the state is still awaiting a study that shows how much schools need to adequately educate students.

Her analysis shows the $191 million cuts would unevenly impact districts, with some receiving a 33% cut in what they expected while others would see zero impact.

“It’s not bringing back the budget stabilization factor, but in all essence, it’s a cut to K-12,” she said.

Polis’ proposal sparks district and lawmaker concern

During a presentation from Polis, budget lawmakers shared reservations about enacting his plan. e Joint Budget Committee does the bulk of the work to craft the budget.

Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, a Weld County Republican, said she was nding it dicult to take Polis’ budget seriously because it doesn’t keep the promises made by the legislature in the last year.

“I’m very disappointed that it looks like we’re actually cutting funding to K-12 education,” Kirkmeyer said.

Dorland said her district would get about $23 million less under this proposal.

“And this is after, since 2009, $10 billion that has been withheld from Colorado public education,” she said. “ e JBC really needs to think about how removing averaging will impact districts across the state and the impact we’ve already had

over the last decade.”

Cherry Creek School District Chief Financial and Operating O cer Scott Smith said although his district didn’t experience enrollment declines this year, the elimination of averaging would still impact his district by about $10 to $15 million.

“We’ve shortchanged a generation of kids,” Smith said. “We should be doing everything we can to not allow that to happen again.”

Meanwhile, Chris Gdowksi, Adams 12 superintendent, said three Adams County districts, including his, are some of the lowest-funded in the Metro area and his district would get about $13.8 million less than expected. Other districts in the area have a bu er because they raise more local property tax dollars for schools.

Changes to the state budget are felt more acutely in the three districts because of low property tax wealth, he said.

For Adams 12, Gdowksi said he might have to cut positions such as support sta , hold o on crucial raises in a district that has struggled to stay competitive with the surrounding area, and increase class sizes.

Gdowksi said funding for public education needs a long-term solution. He, like other district leaders, said he would like to see a bipartisan-backed statewide ballot measure to raise more funding for schools. And he’s hopeful lawmakers will nd a di erent way to balance the budget in the short-term.

“I am hopeful that folks can lean in and nd a di erent way,” Gdowski said. “ ere are di erent and better ways to get there.”

Reprinted with permission from Chalkbeat, a nonpro t news site covering educational change in public schools. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters.

41ST ANNUAL PARADE AT 2P.

Bill would help disaster victims replace lost documents

Hickenlooper among supporters to help after floods, fires

BY SARAH WILSON NEWSLINE

U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper of Colorado is hoping Congress can pass a bill to waive document replacement fees for survivors of disasters like wild res and oods.

“When families get knocked upside down, some losing their homes and businesses, we’ve got to do a better job in helping them recover,” the Democrat said during a Nov. 18 call on the legislation.

e bill was introduced in September with Sen. James Lankford, an Oklahoma Republican. It has not seen any committee action yet. In the House, it is spon-

Tuesdays.

Adams County internships available

Are you interested in learning more about working for local government? Adams County currently has paid internships available.

sored by Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse, a Colorado Democrat, and Rep. John Curtis, a Utah Republican.

U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper of Colorado is hoping Congress can pass a bill to waive document replacement fees for survivors of disasters like wild res and oods.

“When families get knocked upside down, some losing their homes and businesses, we’ve got to do a better job in helping them recover,” the Democrat said during a call on the legislation.

e bill was introduced in September with Sen. James Lankford, an Oklahoma Republican. It has not seen any committee action yet. In the House, it is sponsored by Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse, a Colorado Democrat, and Rep. John Curtis, a Utah Republican.

ere is still time for either chamber’s version of the bill to pass committee and get a oor vote — even attached to a larger bill — by the end of the year and current congressional session. But

Hickenlooper said Monday that if the bill doesn’t pass this year, it will be a priority in the new Congress that convenes in January.

“ is is the time when we don’t have a terrible wild re or looming ood,” he said. “ ese di erent pieces of legislation are not dramatic and won’t change the world, but if we get enough of them done then the next time we have a disaster, it will make life easier for the people of Colorado.”

Federal agencies can already waive replacement fees for documents like passports, visas and proof of citizenship for victims of declared major disasters, but Hickenlooper said the use of that waiver is sporadic. ose documents are often crucial in a person’s rebuilding process after a disaster, and fees can run into the thousands of dollars.

It costs $160 to replace passport materials and over $400 to replace a permanent resident card.

e bill would automatically waive the

cost of replacing passports, visa forms, permanent residence cards, declaration of intent forms, citizenship documents, employment authorizations and the associated biometric service fees.

“We already have processes for waiving these fees. But why add to the bureaucracy and the red tape and make people jump through more hoops to get something waived, when we can just make it cost e ective in the rst place at no charge?” Boulder County Commissioner Ashley Stolzmann said.

Hickenlooper, Neguse and Democratic U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet introduced similar legislation in 2022 after the Marshall Fire in Boulder County, which destroyed over 1,000 homes in the nal days of 2021. It did not get a committee hearing that session. is story is from Colorado Newsline. Used by permission. For more, and to support the news organization, visit coloradonewsline.com.

ese opportunities are available through the Workforce & Business Center. ose interested should work with their Business Center case manager or call 720.523.6898 to get established with a case manager.

FEMA Releases “Disaster Mind” Game

An educational game designed to teach

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).

high school-aged youth about decisionmaking 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. “Disaster Mind is a new and fun way for FEMA to empower students with preparedness information as they transition from high school into the next stage of their lives,” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator, Nancy Dragani. “ e game provides a safe environment for players to develop their decision-making skills and practice taking quick action to help others.”

LUNCH

ver’s upscale Barolo Grill and led a food service program at a California university, decided to launch a student-run lunch operation.

“ ere’s a ton of kids here that show interest in culinary,” he said. “We have these beautiful, brand new kitchens, so it might as well be used.”

Holland said most students take an introductory culinary class before enrolling in the food crew class, though he makes exceptions if students have cooking experience at home or at a job. Food crew emphasizes food safety precautions, including keeping dishes at the proper temperature and avoiding cross-contamination.

e day of the posole lunch, about a dozen students worked at stations around the kitchen, chopping vegetables for the soup or the school’s salad bar. Hunter, a senior who’s a teaching assistant for the class, charred poblano peppers on a sixburner gas stove and helped prepare raw chicken to be baked. Holland, who wore a brown apron with markers and a pen clipped to the pocket, o ered assistance and cooking tips as he circulated.

“Anything you do in a normal commercial kitchen, they’re all doing here,” he said. “It is treated almost like a job, like a shift at a restaurant. I have a big prep list every day.” Riley, a 17-year-old senior who care-

SCHIMKE CHALKBEAT

fully chopped a yellow onion, said he fell in love with cooking because someone is always in the kitchen at his house, usually his dad or grandma. He’s already been admitted to the culinary arts program at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction for next year.

“ e dream is to be a personal chef,” he said.

Not every food crew student wants a career in cooking though. Some simply like the relaxed hands-on nature of the class or enjoy cooking as a pastime.

Admire, a junior who often makes soups and chicken dishes with his mother, said he’s considering a career in music or architecture. But he enjoys the food prep class because cooking for the whole school involves a di erent level of responsibility, he said.

Brayden, a junior who worked with Sabrina and Rachel de-seeding peppers, said cooking is his third-line career option, if professional pool-playing or real estate don’t work out.

Like several other students in the class, he said pizza is a favorite lunch to make. He joked about his class’s superiority on that front.

“In the other class, they make the crust really thin and like, there’s no sauce and stu , and then us, we make it really thick, cheese, sauce, everything,” he said. “So, we are the preferred class for pizza days.”

Isyss, a senior at STEAD School in Commerce City, Colorado, blends ingredients for posole, the school’s lunch entree on November, 12, 2024.

PHOTO BY ANN

New Weld County Sheri ’s training center opens

Training center and shooting range named in honor of Deputy killed in 2010

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Weld County Sheri ’s O ce celebrated the grand opening of the Sam Brownlee Training Center on Nov. 22, according to a news release.

e training center was named in honor of Deputy Sam Brownlee, who died 14 years ago in the line of duty.

According to o cials, the training center will have an outdoor shooting range complex with six distinct rearms ranges o ering shooting distances of up to 300 yards. e indoor training center will also have several

classrooms and administrative spaces that will accommodate sta and our 320 sworn deputies.

Melissa Chesmore, the sheri ’s ofce’s public relations o cer, said the agency plans to expand the training facility so it can continue to provide excellent training to its sta and, in turn, high-quality service to the Weld County community.

e grand opening event was open to the public. SWAT, the K-9 unit, drone demonstrations, and the armored Bearcat used by law enforcement will be on-site for the public to visit. ere will also be food, dessert, tours of the range, and a special presentation by the administrative team.

e center is named in honor of Deputy Samuel Kent Brownlee who was shot and killed while struggling with a gang member following a high-speed pursuit at about 11 a.m. Nov. 23, 2010 near Evans.

Weld County is hosting a grand opening of a Weld County new sheri training center.

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Public Notices call Jean 303.566.4123

Legals

City and County

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT COMMERCE CITY, COLORADO

Notice is hereby given that this public hearing will be conducted on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. at the Commerce City Civic Center, 7887 East 60th Avenue. The Board of Adjustment will consider:

AH24-0001: Metro Water Recovery, is requesting a Height Exception for a maximum building height of 110 feet, where the Land Development Code allows for a maximum height of 50 feet. The subject property is located at 6450 York Street, is approximately 135.6 acres in size, and is zoned Heavy Intensity Industrial District (I-3).

Advance registration for virtual testimony/ public input is required. Additional information and instructions to register for testimony can be found in the published agenda at https://commerce.legistar.com and at https://www.c3gov.com/government/boards-commissions/zoning-boardof-adjustment or by contacting staff at 303-289-8137 or nberry@c3gov.com. Notificatcion de un Proyecto de Desarrollo potencial cerca de su propiedad. Para servicios de traduccion en espanol, llame a Kimberly Adame 303-227-8818.

The application is on file with the Department of Community Development.

Commerce City Board of Adjustment

Para más información contacte 303227-8818

Legal Notice No. CCX1506

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Metropolitan Districts

Public Notice

DISTRICT COURT, ADAMS COUNTY, COLORADO

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PETITION FOR DISSOLUTION

IN RE THE MATTER OF HIMALAYA WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT, COUNTY OF ADAMS, COLORADO, CASE NUMBER 1980CV0083

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that

there was filed in Case No. 1980CV0083 in the District Court in and for the County of Adams, State of Colorado, on November 11, 2024, a Petition for Dissolution, which Petition for Dissolution prays for the dissolution of the Himalaya Water and Sanitation District pursuant to the provisions of Title 32, Article 1, Part 7, Colorado Revised Statutes, as amended.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that, pursuant to Section 32-1-702(1), C.R.S., the Petition for Dissolution states that Himalaya Water and Sanitation District will have no outstanding bonds or financial obligations as of December 31, 2024, as required under Section 32-1-702(3), C.R.S., and the Petition for Dissolution contains a statement affirming that the services of Himalaya Water and Sanitation District will not be continued, as required by Section 32-1-702(4).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that, pursuant to Section 32-1-703, C.R.S., a hearing on the Petition for Dissolution shall be held at 8:45 a.m. on Monday, December 9, 2024, and will be heard by Judge Sarah E. Stout in Division C of the Adams County District Court, located at 1100 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton, Colorado 80610 via WebEx Call-In Number 720-650-7664, Access Code 2591 218 8901. Any interested party may appear and be heard on the sufficiency of the Petition for Dissolution or on the adequacy of the applicable financial and service provisions.

Legal Notice No. CCX1500

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express Metro Districts Budget Hearings

Notice NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED BUDGET

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed budget has been submitted to the BELLE CREEK METROPOLITAN

DISTRICT NO. 1 for the ensuing year of 2025. A copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of the District, 58 Inverness Drive East, Suite 100, in Englewood, Colorado, where the same is open for public inspection. Such proposed budget will be considered and final action taken at a regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the Belle Creek Metropolitan District No. 1 on December 3, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at the Belle Creek Family Center, 10693 Belle Creek Boulevard, Henderson, CO. Any interested elector within the Belle Creek Metropolitan District No. 1 may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget amendment, file or register his objections thereto.

Dated: November 27, 2024

By:/s/ Laurie M. Tatlock

Manager

for the District

Legal Notice No. CCX1501

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Public Notice

NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET AND AMENDMENT OF 2024 BUDGET

BOX ELDER WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

ADAMS COUNTY, COLORADO

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 29-1-108 and 109, C.R.S., that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Box Elder Water and Sanitation District (the “District”) for the ensuing year of 2025. The necessity may also arise for the amendment of the 2024 budget of the District. Copies of the proposed 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget (if appropriate) are on file in the office of the District’s Accountant, Ambassador Accounting, LLC, 7150 S. Fulton St., Suite 100, Centennial, CO 80112, where same are available for public inspection. Such proposed 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget will be considered at a special meeting to be held December 5, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget, inspect the 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget and file or register any objections thereto.

You can attend the meeting in any of the following ways:

1. To attend via Zoom Videoconference, e-mail cwill@specialdistrictlaw. com to obtain a link to the videoconference.

2. To attend via telephone, dial 1-253215-8782, and enter the following additional information:

Meeting ID: 879 3900 1066 Passcode: 299402

BOX ELDER WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

/s/ Paula Williams

McGeady Becher Cortese Williams P.C. Attorneys for the District

Legal Notice No. CCX1503

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Public Notice

NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET AND AMENDMENT OF 2024 BUDGET

CUTLER FARMS DISTRICT ADAMS COUNTY, COLORADO

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 29-1-108 and 109, C.R.S., that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Cutler Farms Metropolitan District (the “District”) for the ensuing year of 2025. The necessity may also arise for the amendment of the 2024 budget of the District. Copies of the proposed 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget (if appropriate) are on file in the office of the District’s Accountant, Ambassador Accounting, LLC, 7150 S. Fulton St., Suite 100, Centennial, CO 80112, where same are available for public inspection. Such proposed 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget will be considered at a special meeting to be held December 5, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget, inspect the 2025 budget and 2024 amended budget and file or register any objections thereto.

You can attend the meeting in any of the following ways:

1. To attend via Zoom Videoconference, e-mail cwill@specialdistrictlaw. com to obtain a link to the videoconference.

2. To attend via telephone, dial 1-253215-8782, and enter the following additional information:

Meeting ID: 879 3900 1066 Passcode: 299402

CUTLER FARMS

METROPOLITAN DISTRICT /s/ Paula Williams

McGeady Becher Cortese Williams P.C. Attorneys for the District

Legal Notice No. CCX1505

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS ON PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET AND AMENDMENT OF 2024 BUDGET BUCKLEY CROSSING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2

Last Publication: November 28, 2024 Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed Budget has been submitted to the

BELLE CREEK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 1

PUBLIC NOTICES

Board of Directors (“Board”) of the Buckley Crossing Metropolitan District No. 2 (“District”) for fiscal year 2025. A copy of the proposed 2025 Budget is available for inspection by the public at the office of the District’s accountant at 8390 E Crescent Parkway, Suite 300, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. The District Board will consider the proposed 2025 Budget, and an Amended 2024 Budget, if necessary, at public hearings to be held during a regular meeting scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 12460 1st Street, Eastlake, Colorado and via Zoom. Meeting access information and the meeting agenda may be obtained from the District’s website: https://www. buckleycrossingmd2.com/

The Board may take action on the proposed 2025 Budget, and the proposed Amended 2024 Budget, if necessary, following the public hearings.

Any interested elector of the District may file or register any objections thereto with the Board during normal business hours prior to the final adoption of the proposed 2025 Budget and Amended 2024 Budget, if necessary.

BUCKLEY

CROSSING

METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2

By: /s/ Steven Young President

Legal Notice No. CCX1508

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024 Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Public Notice

NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET AND AMENDMENT OF 2023 AND 2024 BUDGETS

NORTHERN COMMERCE

METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

ADAMS COUNTY, COLORADO

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 29-1-108 and 109, C.R.S., that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Northern Commerce Metropolitan District (the “District”) for the ensuing year of 2025. The necessity may also arise for the amendment of the 2023 and 2024 budgets of the District. Copies of the proposed 2025 budget and 2023 and 2024 amended budgets (if appropriate) are on file in the office of the District’s Accountant, Ambassador Accounting, LLC, 7150 S. Fulton St., Suite 100, Centennial, CO 80112, where same are available for public inspection. Such proposed 2025 budget and 2023 and 2024 amended budgets will be considered at a special meeting to be held December 5, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2025 budget and 2023 and 2024 amended budgets, inspect the 2025 budget and 2023 and 2024 amended budgets and file or register any objections thereto.

You can attend the meeting in any of the following ways:

1. To attend via Zoom Videoconference, e-mail cwill@specialdistrictlaw. com to obtain a link to the videoconference.

2. To attend via telephone, dial 1-253215-8782, and enter the following additional information:

Meeting ID: 879 3900 1066 Passcode: 299402

NORTHERN COMMERCE

METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

/s/ Paula Williams

McGeady Becher Cortese Williams P.C. Attorneys for the District

Legal Notice No. CCX1504

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Public Notice

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the proposed budget for the ensuing year of 2025 has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the South Adams County Fire Protection District (“District”). Such proposed budget will be considered at a meeting and public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District to be held at South Adams County Fire Department Administration office, at 6050 Syracuse Street, Commerce City, CO 80022, at 4:30 p.m. on December 10, 2024.

A copy of the proposed 2025 budget is available for public inspection at the offices of South Adams County Fire Department, 6050 Syracuse Street, Commerce City, CO 80022. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to final adoption of the 2025 budget, if required, file or register any objections thereto.

SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT

By: /s/ Craig Machuga, President

Legal Notice No. CCX1493

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS ON PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET AND AMENDMENT OF 2024 BUDGET BUCKLEY CROSSING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed Budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors (“Board”) of the Buckley Crossing Metropolitan District (“District”) for fiscal year 2025. A copy of the proposed 2025 Budget is available for inspection by the public at the office of the District’s accountant at 8390 E Crescent Parkway, Suite 300, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. The District Board will

consider the proposed 2025 Budget, and an Amended 2024 Budget, if necessary, at public hearings to be held during a regular meeting scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 2, 2024 at 12460 1st Street, Eastlake, Colorado and via Zoom. Meeting access information and the meeting agenda may be obtained from the District’s website: https://www. buckleycrossingmd.com/

The Board may take action on the proposed 2025 Budget, and the proposed Amended 2024 Budget, if necessary, following the public hearings.

Any interested elector of the District may file or register any objections thereto with the Board during normal business hours prior to the final adoption of the proposed 2025 Budget and Amended 2024 Budget, if necessary.

BUCKLEY CROSSING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

By: /s/ Steven Young President

Legal Notice No. CCX1507

First Publication: November 28, 2024 Last Publication: November 28, 2024 Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Public Notice

NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED 2025 BUDGETS AND AMENDMENT OF 2023 AND 2024 BUDGETS

SETTLER’S CROSSING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 1 AND 2 CITY OF COMMERCE CITY, ADAMS COUNTY, COLORADO

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 29-1-108 and 109, C.R.S., that proposed budgets have been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Settler’s Crossing Metropolitan District Nos. 1 and 2 (the “Districts”) for the ensuing year of 2025. The necessity may also arise for the amendment of the 2023 and 2024 budgets of the Districts. Copies of the proposed 2025 budgets and 2023 and 2024 amended budgets (if appropriate) are on file in the office of the District’s Accountant, Simmons & Wheeler, P.C., 304 Inverness Way South, Suite 490, Englewood, CO 80112, where such are available for public inspection. Such proposed 2025 budgets and 2023 and 2024 amended budgets will be considered at regular meetings of the Districts to be held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.

1. To attend via Zoom videoconference, use the following link, or e-mail csorensen@specialdistrictlaw.com to have the link e-mailed to you: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/831449966 19?pwd=Pb52qG1Au06hHuZQbzq3a mFcJa38p4.1

2. To attend via telephone, dial 1-719359-4580 or 1-253-215-8782 and enter the following additional information:

(a)Meeting ID: 831 4499 6619 (b)Passcode: 121225

Any interested elector within the Districts may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2025 budgets or the 2023 and 2024 amended budgets, inspect the 2025 budgets and the 2023 and 2024 amended budgets and file or register any objections thereto.

SETTLER’S CROSSING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 1 AND 2 /s/ Paula J. Williams

McGEADY BECHER CORTESE WILLIAMS P.C.

Attorneys for the Districts

Legal Notice No. CCX1496

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON BUDGET FOR 2025

SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT ACTING FOR ITSELF AND BY AND ON BEHALF OF ITS SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT ACTIVITY ENTERPRISE

Notice is hereby given that a proposed 2025 budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of South Adams County Water and Sanitation District. A copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of South Adams County Water and Sanitation District, 6595 East 70th Avenue, Commerce City, CO 80022, where the same is open for public inspection.

A public hearing on the budget will be held at the District’s Regular Board Meeting in December as follows:

Date: December 11, 2024

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: District Administration Building

6595 E. 70th Avenue Commerce City, CO 80022

A Resolution of approval of the budget and appropriations and certification of a mill levy will be considered, acted on, and adopted at the December 11 meeting. Any interested elector of South Adams County Water and Sanitation District may file or register any objections to the proposed budget at any time prior to the final adoption by the Board. Proposed increases to the District’s rates, fees, tolls, penalties, and charges have been separately Noticed pursuant to Colorado law.

SOUTH ADAMS COUNTY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

By: Vicki Ennis As: Secretary

Legal Notice No. CCX1502

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

SHORTAGE

ly, but without a dedicated IV fluid bag, known as a push medication.

“You don’t even need a bag at all. You just give the medication without the bag,” he said. “There has been increasing literature over the last 10 to 20 years that indicates maybe you don’t need to use as much. And this accelerated our sort of innovation and testing of that idea.”

Monica Coleman is a nurse at a Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in North Chicago. She said using push medications takes more time out of a

NORTON

strengthen connections.

At its core, gratitude has the power to bring peace. Focusing on what we have rather than what we lack shifts us from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance. is helps us let go of comparison, fear, and frustration, creating space for contentment to grow.

Contentment doesn’t mean complacency; it means nding joy in the present while still striving for goals. Gratitude anchors us in the here and now, reminding us that even amidst challenges, there is always something to be thankful for.

As we gather with family and friends this anksgiving, let’s embrace gratitude for a day and as a way of life. Let’s recognize the

nurse’s already hectic schedule because then they need to monitor the patient.

“This could increase adverse effects within the patient, because we’re giving the medication at a faster rate,” she said.

Elgawly is also interested in retooling electronic health records to question doctor orders for more IV hydration.

“Does the patient actually need that second bag? How did they do today with eating or drinking water or juice? They did well? They don’t need the bag. So it’s little conservation mechanisms like that that, when you add them across, you know, the 2,000-patient system that Inova is, make a significant dent,” he said.

Simpler conservation measures could become common after the shortage

values it cultivates within us and the peace it brings to our hearts.

When we live with gratitude, it doesn’t just enrich our lives; it radiates outward, touching people and the world around us. In that shared thankfulness, we discover deeper connection, greater contentment, and lasting peace.

So, this anksgiving, let’s give thanks. But more importantly, let’s carry that gratitude forward, letting it shape who we are and how we live every day. I would love to hear your story of gratitude at gotonorton@ gmail.com, and when we can anchor our lives in being truly thankful, it really will be a better-than-good life.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator of individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries.

abates, said Vince Green, chief medical officer for Pipeline Health, a small hospital system in the Los Angeles area that serves mainly people on Medicare and Medicaid.

First, Green would like to see data showing that patient outcomes aren’t affected. But for now, some of the new strategies just make sense to him. He has directed hospital staff to use up the entire IV bag before starting another.

“If they come in with IV fluids that the paramedics have started, let’s continue it. If it saves half a bag of fluids, so be it, but it adds up over time,” he said.

Patients may be asked to take more accountability for their hydration, by drinking Gatorade or water rather than the default of hydrating through an IV,

PUBLIC NOTICES

Estate of DONNA LEE YEILDING, Deceased

Case Number: 2024 PR 317

All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Adams County, Colorado on or before March 14, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.

Ronald Whitman

Personal Representative

902 S 76th Ave Yakima, WA 98908

Legal Notice No. CCX1484

First Publication: November 14, 2024

Last Publication: November 28, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

Estate of Angel Esteban Sepeda, Deceased Case Number: 2024 PR 30754

All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Adams County, Colorado on or before March 28, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.

Maria Yolanda Sepeda

Personal Representative c/o Springer & Steinberg P.C.

1400 S. Colorado Blvd., Suite 500 Denver, Colorado 80222

Legal Notice No. CCX1499

First Publication: November 28, 2024

Last Publication: December 12, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

he said.

“From an environmental aspect, we don’t need to have this much waste and fill up our landfills. If we could reduce stuff, I think it’d be wise,” he said.

But he’ll feel better when his hospitals receive a full order, which could be weeks away. Green said they are down to a two-week supply, with an expected increase in hospitalizations due to respiratory virus season.

“We’re purchasing every IV fluid bag that we can get,” he said.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF—an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism.

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Estate of Michael Nelson, aka Michael Anthony Nelson, aka Michael A. Nelson, Deceased Case Number: 2024PR30782

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Adams County, Colorado on or before March 21, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.

Kayla R. Nelson #44522

Attorney to the Personal Representative

390 Union Blvd. #580 Lakewood, CO 80228

Legal Notice No. CCX 4507

First Publication: November 21, 2024

Last Publication: December 5, 2024

Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express

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