Clear Creek Courant July 18, 2024

Hundreds celebrate Fourth

Re-trial for Andrew Buen murder charge in Christian Glass case continued to February 2025

BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Despite what prosecutors called “strong objections” from Christian Glass’s family, Colorado 5th Circuit Judge Catherine Cheroutes granted Andrew Buen’s lead defense attorney Carrie Slinkard’s motion for a continuance in Buen’s re-trial until February 2025.

An online conference between prosecutors and defense attorneys took place July 11 when Cheroutes granted the continuance.

Buen was in court July 8 for a motions hearing ahead of his scheduled re-trial when Slinkard asked Cheroutes for a continuance due to “child care issues” for her 11-year-old, as her husband is scheduled out of town during the originally scheduled Aug. 12 retrial date.

After eight days of testimony and two-and-a-half days of deliberation during the April trial, a Clear Creek County jury found Buen guilty of reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor, in the

Jolie Gross, Jake Gross, Wynter Quinn and Leo Quinn of Idaho Springs enjoyed the show for the Fourth of July in Idaho Springs. PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL

TRIAL

shooting death of 22-year-old Christian Glass. However, jurors were unable to reach a decision on the second-degree murder and o cial misconduct charges at proceedings on April 26.

Neither the prosecution nor the defense asked for a change of venue to take the murder case out of Clear Creek County during the July 8 motions hearing, meaning Clear Creek

residents will, once again, be called as potential jurors.

Cheroutes set the court’s calendar for a three-week trial starting Feb. 3, 2025.

Overnight on June 10-11, 2022, Christian Glass, 22, called 911 for help, saying he was trapped in his car. When o cers arrived, they asked him to leave his vehicle. He refused in what turned into a long stando that ended when o cers broke his car window and used a Taser on him.

Buen then shot Glass ve times, killing him, according to an indictment.

Weather Observations for Georgetown, Colorado

Weather Observations for Georgetown, Colorado

Week

Week of July 1,

ofJuly 1, 2024

2024

Each day at about 8 a.m. a local National Weather Service volunteer observer makes temperature and precipitation observations at the Georgetown Weather Station and wind observations at Georgetown Lake. “Max” and “Min” temperatures are from an NWS digital “Maximum/Minimum Temperature System.” “Mean daily” temperature is the calculated average of the max and min. “Total Precipitation” is inches of rainfall plus melted snow. “Snowfall” is inches of snow that accumulated. T = Trace of precipitation or snowfall. NR = Not Reported. “Peak wind gust at Georgetown Lake” is the velocity and the time of the maximum wind gust that occurred during the 24 hours preceding the observation time. Historic data are based on the period of record for which statistical data have been compiled (about 55 years within the period 1893-2023). Any weather records noted are based on a comparison of the observed value with the historical data set.

Each day at about 8 a.m. a local National Weather Service volunteer observer makes temperature and precipitation observations at the Georgetown Weather Station and wind observations at Georgetown Lake. “Max” and “Min” temperatures are from an NWS digital “Maximum/Minimum Temperature System.” “Mean daily” temperature is the calculated average of the max and min. “Total Precipitation” is inches of rainfall plus melted snow. “Snowfall” is inches of snow that accumulated. T = Trace of precipitation or snowfall. NR = Not Reported. “Peak wind gust at Georgetown Lake” is the velocity and the time of the maximum wind gust that occurred during the 24 hours preceding the observation time. Historic data are based on the period of record for which statistical data have been compiled (about 55 years within the period 1893-2023). Any weather records noted are based on a comparison of the observed value with the historical data set

Day and date of observation (2024)

Historic week’s avg max, min, mean daily T; avg sum of TP, SF 78.047.762.90.320.0

* Previous Historic Low Min was 41 in 1952.

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Renovation Trends Reflect Post-Pandemic Drive for Comfort, Warmth and Healthy Living

A May 30th article on Houzz.com caught my attention with the headline “7 Home Design Trends Emerging Now.” I’ll post a link to that article at RealEstateToday.substack.com

The trends which the article identified showed a rising interest in “organic” modern style and “dark and moody” interiors. They didn’t mention the pandemic, but it was on my mind as I pondered this dramatic shift in the public’s attitude toward home life. The after-effects of the pandemic and especially the lock-down period are still being felt in various ways, especially in the home design and real estate choices we each make. I’ve written in the past about how the workfrom-home mandates wreaked havoc on the commercial real estate market, especially post-pandemic, as many workers insisted on (with some employer agreement) continuing to work from home instead of returning to the office.

The biggest surge was observed in the use of search terms such as “organic modern,” whether it was for bedrooms, dining rooms or other rooms. I never thought of using the term “organic” for home design, but it seems to be close to what I’ve always called earth tones. This also tied in with the next most common search term, “dark” and “moody.”

bathroom I saw had a shower that was not separated from a standalone tub sitting on a tiled floor with a floor drain. The homeowner could have been Japanese or perhaps an American who lived there and adopted Japanese ways.

To quote from the article by Parker, “These spaces mix deep, dramatic colors and materials to create an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere with a touch of drama.” Pictures of rooms demonstrating results of those search terms are in the online article which you will want to check out.

It’s been a couple decades since the move away from white walls in new homes. Rounded wall corners are now commonplace, adding softness to walls which are now often a shade of gray.

(I enjoyed a visit to Tokyo decades ago, where I stayed in a student house with no bathing facilities. I, like others in the house, went to a neighborhood bathhouse where I squatted alongside others on a stool in front of a low faucet and washed and rinsed my body before joining others in a huge hot tub.)

Another trend cited by Parker is wellness, which is expressed in bathrooms as well as in saunas, steam showers, cold plunges, and yoga rooms. “Home spa” was a search term which jumped 34% from last year to this year.

We’ve long seen pool tables and ping pong tables in homes, but now the big thing is “game rooms.” (This reminds me that in some 1950s one-story homes with basements, I have seen more than one which had a shuffle board court laid out using colored vinyl tiles, usually covered by wall-to-wall carpeting, greatly amusing the homeowner when it came time to replace the carpeting!)

The seventh and last trend identified in the Houzz article was an interest in “kid zones.” Yes, people are still having children, and having a place for them to engage in non-smartphone games is important to many parents, as it would be for Rita and me if we were of that age. (I suppose grandparents would want a kids zone, too, but even our grandchildren are in college now!)

A second real estate impact from the lock-down period was the decision by many homeowners to relocate to homes that were further from their place of employment and/or move to a home more suited to working from home, such as with a separate home office space.

As for home design trends, how does one gauge such trends? For Mitchell Parker, the writer for Houzz, it was done by analyzing the year-over-year changes in search terms used on their website.

Are you following the 2024 presidential race? You may be interested in my political blog, which you can find at http://TalkingTurkey.substack.com

Another trend noted by Parker is reading rooms and walls of bookshelves, which may seem odd in an era noted for its switch to digital and audio books. (I myself am now hooked on audio books, following a previous addiction to ebooks, which are free from the Jeffco and other library systems.)

Japanese influences are coming into vogue, from the living room to bedroom to the garden, with green, including indoor plants like lemon grass dominating room décor. I recently toured a home which had a Japanese style bathroom. Japanese are fond of washing themselves outside the bathtub, and only going into the tub afterwards to soak. The

Development Opportunity in Westminster

The property at 9251 N. Wadsworth Boulevard offers a fantastic redevelopment opportunity in Jefferson County and City of Westminster! Formerly known as the Cheshire Cat Hospital, this 3-acre property operated as a veterinary clinic for the past 20 years and is currently zoned agricultural but is an area of focus for rezoning with both Jefferson County and the City of Westminster. The parcel is close to the Denver-Boulder Turnpike, Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport, Rock Creek Medical Campus, retail, municipal government, higher education and open space. If the purchaser wishes to maintain the agricultural zoning, the property could be used for an equine boarding facility with four horses per acre. In addition to domestic animals, the agricultural zoning offers several permitted uses including telecommunications towers, farming with residence, and stables -- a full list. It is co-listed at $2,490,000 by broker associates Chuck Brown and Austin Pottorff, whose cell numbers are at right. An aerial video tour of this listing created by Austin can be seen at www.GRElistings.com.

Leisure spaces generally are also important to home buyers and home renovators. One search term which jumped by 107% year-over-year was “listening room.” Another was for a piano room or piano living room.

Searches for “race car bed,” “teen lounge” and “tween bedroom” were all up year-over-year.

I found the article, which was filled with photo examples from vendors, very interesting and fun. You will too!

Big Reduction on Home Near Majestic Park

$798,000

The sellers designed this 5-bedroom, 4,603sq.-ft. home at 6714 Field St. in Arvada for entertaining and were the general contractor for it in 1985. Listed last month at $845,000, the price was just lowered to $798,000, which computes to only $173 per square foot! Spaces for entertaining abound both indoors and on the large wraparound deck. There's an indoor hot tub in its own room that is well ventilated to avoid moisture-related issues. Floors are a mix of carpet, oak hardwood and ceramic tile. A guest bedroom on the main floor was used by the seller as a home office and a reading room and sewing room are upstairs. This home is an early example of passive solar design. In addition to the solar thermal panels on the roof which provide hot water for the home, there are solar thermal panels built into the south wall of the great room to capture solar gain in the winter for warming the house after dark. The backyard includes a large garden area and a shed with electricity with two compartments — a storage area with a concrete floor and a south-facing area with gravel floor and windows to capture solar gain for starting plants early. There is no HOA and there’s a gate on the north side of the house for parking an RV next to the garage. Majestic View Park and its Nature Center are a short walk or bike ride to the north. Find more pictures, floor plans and a narrated video walk-through at www.ArvadaHome.info, then come to our open house on Saturday, July 20th, 11am to 1pm. Or call Kathy Jonke at 303-990-7428 to schedule a private showing.

1214 Washington Ave., Golden 80401

Broker Associates:

JIM SWANSON, 303-929-2727

CHUCK BROWN, 303-885-7855

DAVID DLUGASCH, 303-908-4835

GREG KRAFT, 720-353-1922

AUSTIN POTTORFF, 970-281-9071 KATHY

, 303-868-1903

Note: All “Real Estate Today” columns are archived at www.JimSmithColumns.com.

No HOA!

City, town and county leaders meet in Idaho Springs to talk future plans

The leaders gather once a month to discuss issues and opportunities within the county and its five jurisdictions

BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A group of approximately 20 leaders within ve jurisdictions in Clear Creek County gathered at Marion’s of the Rockies restaurant in Idaho Springs to discuss pressing issues as a whole.

At the top of the agenda July 9 was the proposed formation of a MultiJurisdictional Housing Authority in the county.

e housing authority would be a separate government entity that represents a group of local governments that come together to support a ordable housing in the county, according to Director of

Strategic Planning Amy Saxton.

It would include a board of directors and executive director, who would be hired to direct the authority.

e initial cost of funding the authority would be split by a variety of factors to be determined by thenal agreement by the ve members

which includes Clear Creek County, Idaho Springs, Georgetown, Empire and Silver Plume.

“It would provide services for residents who may live in a ordable or low-income housing and connect them with resources just like a one-stop shop for existing (housing) programs that can be di cult

to navigate,” Saxton said.

It would also have, with voter authorization, the authority to levy taxes to nance new building development, according to Saxton. e housing authority has been a topic of conversation and debate for more than a year in the county.

City leaders in Empire said the authority makes sense for the small town if the details can be worked out by all entities.

“It’s not just building houses, it’s helping with property management companies, managing deed restrictions, helping people improve the properties that they’re in, those are the things that are going to help Empire,” Empire City Manager Jeannette Piel said.

Clear Creek County Commissioner George Marlin said he hopes to see a nal proposal for the authority ready to review by the end of August.

“You should be able to work in a community where you live,” Idaho Springs Mayor Chuck Harmon told the group.

Clear Creek County Commissioner George Marlin directs the conversation between city and county leaders in Idaho Springs July 9.

PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL

Judge dismisses universal preschool lawsuit brought by Colorado school districts

BY ANN SCHIMKE CHALKBEAT COLORADO

A Denver district court judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by several Colorado school districts over the state’s universal preschool program, ruling that the plainti s don’t have legal grounds to sue.

In his 20-page ruling, Judge Jon J. Olafson concluded that the six school districts, two education groups, a cooperative education services board, and two families that sued the state last year had not su ered any “injury” covered by state or federal law. e districts, groups, and families had argued that the universal preschool program administration was harming students with disabilities, in addition to other claims.

e decision is a win for the state and

for Gov. Jared Polis, who spearheaded the popular free preschool program, which launched last summer after a rushed and rocky planning process. It comes a month after a partial victory for the state in another universal preschool lawsuit — one brought by Catholic preschools who don’t want to enroll children from LGBTQ families. ( e Catholic preschools plan to appeal.)

Melissa Gibson, deputy executive director of the Colorado Association of School Executives, one of the plainti s in the case, said in a statement Wednesday, “We are disappointed by the court’s decision, but we will continue our focus on doing everything possible to advocate for resolution to the issues impacting students and families in the [universal preschool] system.”

She said ling the lawsuit was “a last

resort,” and that the plainti s will continue to work with the state to push for solutions and transparency.

In addition to Gibson’s group, the plainti s include the Consortium of Directors of Special Education, Centennial Board of Cooperative Educational Services, two families, and the six school districts: Brighton-based 27J, Cherry Creek, Harrison, Mapleton, Platte Valley, and Westminster. ey led the lawsuit against the state last summer, claiming its administration of the universal preschool program was harming children with disabilities and breaking nancial promises to families and school districts. In response, the state asked the court to dismiss the suit. Olafson held a hearing on that motion at the end of April.

Olafson acknowledged that the

school district plainti s had faced “headaches” in adapting to the new universal preschool system, but said “these growing pains are not legally protected injury.”

He also said that some of the plainti s’ concerns would be better addressed through legislative or administrative means, rather than through the courts.

During the 2023-24 school year, about 39,000 4-year-olds received tuition-free preschool through Colorado’s universal preschool program — representing 62% of children in that age group in the state. Enrollment is expected to be even higher next year.

is story was printed through a news sharing agreement with Chalkbeat Colorado, a nonpro t news site covering educational change in public schools.

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Hundreds celebrate Fourth of July in Idaho Springs with music and fireworks

Downtown Idaho Springs streets teemed with parents, children, friends and puppies who came for the festivities

BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A day-long celebration of Independence Day in Idaho Springs provided family, children and friends with music on the main stage, food, drinks and lots of activities for the kids.

The annual tradition of fireworks above the Water Wheel in Idaho Springs continued this July 4 and people united in Citizens Park to enjoy the pre-show music and a beverage.

“Came down to see some music and eventually some fireworks. I actually really love the community here — it’s what I’m here for. I like it, it’s a good vibe,” Brian Flores of Georgetown said. He attended with his

friend Daniel Owen, of Silver Plume. Officers with the Colorado Rangers Kevin Erickson and Doug Putney patrolled the grounds looking for anyone having a little “too much fun,” Erickson said.

The Colorado Rangers is a statewide group of sworn reserve officers who complete state law enforcement training and are armed. They assist local law enforcement for large events and they are all volunteers, according to the organization, which has served Colorado since 1921.

Wide-eyed children also played in the streets and danced to the music, including 10-month-old Garrick Talon who was there with his mother Leia from Ft. Collins for the day.

“I love Idaho Springs. I recommend it to everybody, ‘cause I just love the energy and vibe,” Leia Talon said.

The mother and son were returning from Garrick’s first trip to the top of Mount Blue Sky earlier in the day.

“He loves everything, he’s happy... A lot of the time,” Leia Talon said. She added that Idaho Springs is “a hidden little gem.”

The traditional Fourth of July fireworks show in the mountains above the Water Wheel in Idaho Springs is one of the best in the state, according to Director of the Chamber of Commerce Sadie Schultz.

The fireworks started just after 9 p.m. and showered Idaho Springs with brightly colored lights that illuminated the city’s packed downtown area for at least 20 minutes.

The huge booms of the igniting displays echoed through the mountains of the valley and “oohs” and “ahhs” could be heard from the crowd following each explosion.

Several locals talked the next day, after the crowds had receded, about how this year was one of the best.

A small fire ignited by the fireworks display on the mountain below was quickly extinguished by firefighters with the Clear Creek Fire Authority who were already staged along the mountain trails, according to Assistant Fire Chief Jeremy Jones.

The July 4 festival in Idaho Springs drew hundreds of people for music, fun and fireworks.

PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL

FOURTH OF JULY IN IDAHO SPRINGS

Dancing in the street, 10-month-old Garrick Talon and his mother Leia from Ft. Collins enjoy the music in Idaho Springs July 4.

A 20 minute fireworks show over Idaho Springs July 4.

Brian Flores of Georgetown (left) and friend Daniel Owen Silver Plume enjoy the Fourth of July celebration in Idaho Springs. PHOTOS BY CHRIS KOEBERL

Crowds gathered around the music state in Idaho Springs for July 4th filled with music and fireworks.

Ah, summer break! e possibilities are endless: sleeping in, backyard barbecues and content kiddos playing the days away. e reality, though, is often a bit more challenging. My kids typically make it about one day before proclaiming, “I’m bored.”  So, what to do? Check out these inexpensive — or free! — ideas to keep everyone entertained this summer:

For the adventurer

Try your hand at geocaching: Who doesn’t love a treasure hunt? To get started geocaching, download the free app and go. You’ll use GPS coordinates to nd hidden containers, with any number of surprises inside.

Go camping — at home: Heading o on a camping trip is an amazing activity for kids, but not everyone has the gear, or the time. Backyard camping can be a great alternative. Set up a tent or sleep under the stars, roast some s’mores in a re pit (and if you don’t have one, use the grill), and swap ghost stories once the sun goes down. Bonus: if the kids lose patience, you’re steps away from a real bed.

Cool o : Ditch the neighborhood pool for a day, and try out a new water spot. Plan a “beach day” — pack a picnic, and head to a local lake or river. ere are a lot of great options in the Front Range, such as Boyd Lake State Park in Larimer

VOICES

Kid-friendly summer activities

LIFE BALANCED

50 years of Courant headlines not to be confused with news

BY TEDDY JACOBSEN

Georgetown gets grant for water meter cost help – July 17, 2013

Georgetown received a grant that helped homeowners pay for new wa-

County, Cherry Creek Reservoir, Big Soda Lake in Je erson County and Boulder Reservoir. Also, Denver’s City Park and Washington Park have paddle boats available to rent.

Stamp your (national parks) passport: Purchase a passport booklet through the Passport To Your National Parks program, and gift your children a keepsake they can contribute to for years. en head to one of Colorado’s national parks to secure that rst stamp.

For the budding foodie

Browse the farmers market: Farmers markets are a perfect place to spend a weekend morning. Pick out some produce and sweet treats, enjoy a sample or two, and grab some lunch at a food truck. Tie this into an add-on activity and prep a recipe from all the tasty market nds.

Bake up a masterpiece: Use those berries from the market to whip up a cobbler or crisp. Or, set up a cupcake or cookie decorating station. Your kitchen helpers can also assist with dishes, so don’t be afraid to make a mess.

Grow your own: Maintaining a

small garden means homegrown produce + a great learning opportunity. Start with simple, hardy plants like tomatoes, pumpkins or herbs. en put your kids in charge — they can plant, water and weed all the way through harvest.

Fun for the whole fam

Build a time capsule: Grab a shoebox or plastic bin, and have your kids create a collection for their future selves. A “letter to me” is a great inclusion. en tape up the box and label it with an open date — try to wait at least 10 years.

Plan a family movie night: Have everyone vote on a ick, then make it an event. Pop some popcorn, set up an ice cream sundae bar, and bring out blankets and pillows for a comfy night in.

Go retro: In the heat of summer, bowling alleys and skating rinks are a perfect escape. Head to either for air-conditioned exercise, nostalgic snacks and a few hours of family fun.

Host a chalk art festival: Pick a sunny summer morning, and challenge your neighbors to create driveway masterpieces. Set a time frame, and nd a few judges as well. Afterward, walk the block and enjoy.

Pack a picnic: Picnics are an oldie but goodie. Grab fried chicken and sides from the store, pack up some games, and head to the park. Scan local listings for free outdoor con-

certs — many areas o er them in the summer.

For keeping sharp

Foster the love of reading: Join a summer reading challenge. Your kiddos’ school may have a program, Barnes & Noble has a fun one (earn free books!) or there is a great summer reading challenge from Scholastic as well. Many local libraries also have challenges.

Prep to become a future day trader: Check out TD Bank’s virtual stock market program, which allows children to fund a portfolio using virtual cash.

For the parents

Form a baby-sitting co-op: Babysitters are saviors, but they also come at a cost. One solution is to form a co-op with friends or neighbors. Most systems use tokens or points to track hours. Save yours up for a big night out — or even an overnight trip.

Are you reading this list and thinking: cool, but we don’t have time? TULA can help. Pass o your to-do list to your very own, on-demand personal assistant — and free up some of those hours for summer fun.

Megan Trask and Cody Galloway are Denver residents and co-founders of TULA Life Balanced. Learn more about their business at tulabalanced.com.

OLDS: This week in the Clear Creek Courant…

ter meters. Georgetown mayor Craig Abrahamson accepted the $170,000 grant from the Department of Local A airs to help subsidize the cost of its water meter replacement program. Approximately 600 meters needed to be replaced at a cost of $550 each. e grant would have paid for about half.

Highway Department allows contract for escape ramps – July 20, 1979

e Highway Department’s Division of Highways awarded a $843,008

contract for construction of two truck escape ramps west of the Eisenhower Memorial Tunnel. Construction engineer Wes Go of Frisco said the completion time for the ramps should have been 90 working days.

Idaho Springs police o cer arrested–July 19, 1974

Michael A. Candelaria, 28, an Idaho Springs police o cer, was arrested at City Hall in connection with two felony charges and a misdemeanor. Police Chief John Marks said Can-

delaria was charged with possession of stolen auto parts and theft of auto parts and rst degree o cial misconduct.

e Clear Creek Courant was created in August of 1973. ese items come from Courant’s historic archives. As it turns out, previous Courant writers had the same idea for the paper’s 25th anniversary. eir section was dubbed, “Olds: Not to be confused with news.” It lives on for an entire year to celebrate the paper’s 50th birthday.

Megan Trask and Cody Galloway

Miners Alley Goes Back to School

There are many ways to approach school, and not every student thrives under the same conditions. Or, in the case of Dewey Finn, every teacher.

But that just provides the opportunity for more creativity in learning, and as the musical “School of Rock” at Miners Alley Playhouse entertainingly demonstrates, that can make all the di erence.

And that willingness to learn extends to the creatives on and o stage.

“For me, if a project scares me, that means I should do it,” said Warren Sherrill, director of the production and associate artistic director at Miners Alley. “When I was approached about directing this show it was really exciting to me, because it’s a massive undertaking. ere are a bunch of kids on stage (about half of whom need to play speci c instruments), an adult ensemble and a regular band. It’s a big show for us to bite o , but I know we can pull it o .”

“School of Rock” runs at Miners Alley, 1100 Miners Alley in Golden, from Friday, July 26 through Sunday, Sept. 15. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on ursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

e show features music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by Glenn Slater and a book by Julian Fellowes and is based on the classic 2003 lm starring Jack Black. e story follows Dewey, a failed rockstar who poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. ere he discovers a class of straight-A students and decides to turn them into the rock band he always wanted.

e one of the biggest challenges was nding child actors who could handle the many requirements of their roles — they essentially have to be triple threats, as they have to act, sing and play instruments. Sherrill said about 70 children auditioned and the actors they selected are going to wow audiences.

“ e kids are just amazing talents and they carry a large chunk of the show and they’re going to knock people over,” he said. “I’m so excited for audiences to see them and witness their brilliance.”

While the aim is always to entertain audiences, Sherrill hopes that they also come away with a renewed appreciation of the importance of

COMING ATTRACTIONS

music, especially for you children. It really has the power to unlock so much that a less creative education

Clarke Reader

“A big part of the show is the kids nding their true selves through music, no matter what that is,” he said.

“It’s about doing what you feel passionate about and having a sense of security that I’ve always felt the arts provide.”

Light Up the Night at the Pedal the Moon Bike Ride

Castle Rock’s annual Pedal the Moon bike ride is one of those special events that can only happen during the summer.

e ride will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, with participants meeting at Castle View High School, 5254 N. Meadows Drive. From there, riders will follow the East Plum Creek Trail. Cyclists are encouraged to get festive and soup up their bikes with light and other decorations and they can use a decorating station located at the intersection of East Plum Creek and Hangman’s Gulch trails with glowin-the-dark items and other goodies.

All participants must wear a helmet and have a front headlamp and blinking rear light. Registration and other details are available at https:// visitcastlerock.org/events/.

Dazzle Jazz and Colorado Music HOF Keep El Chapultepec’s Culture Alive

El Chapultepec was one of Denver’s most storied jazz and blues clubs and its closure in 2020 was a heartbreaker for a lot of music fans. But it’s spirit lives on, courtesy of Dazzle Jazz Club and the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. e recently created El Chapultepec Legacy Project is working with the hall of fame to host a launch event at 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 21 at Dazzle, 1080 14th St. e event, “Ode to the Early Days,” is a throwback to the straight-ahead be-bop standards that launched the original El Chapultepec.

e aim of the project is to keep

HIGHLANDS RANCH NATIVE MAKES TEAM USA ROWING SQUAD

the Olympics

BY JOHN RENFROW

Even while playing multiple sports at Mountain Vista High School, Jessica oennes never saw herself as a stellar athlete; much less an Olympian. But a decade later, that’s exactly what she is after qualifying for Team USA as a rower on the women’s pair team. It’s not her rst time qualifying, either.

oennes spoke with Colorado Community Media on the Fourth of July before hopping on a plane to Paris for the Summer Olympics.

“As I have been told many times in my career,

there is no better way to celebrate the Fourth of July than by practicing my craft for the United States,” oennes said.

So rather than hot dogs and reworks, oennes enjoyed multiple weightlifting sessions, in-thewater practice runs, yoga, working online, packing and more.

It’s her return to the big stage after the Tokyo Games in 2020, where she was a bow seat in the women’s eight group of rowers. at squad nished fourth in that event.

Now she and her partner, Azja Czajkowski, pair up for the U.S. as a smaller unit going for the gold after winning the pair at the 2024 U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Team Trials in April.

oennes and Czajkowski will compete against the world’s best rowing pairs later this month. But oennes’ journey to the top of her sport is unique; she had never rowed in her life until walk-

ing on to the University of Washington’s team in 2015. at’s about as late a start as possible.

And she wasn’t exactly counting up o ers from colleges, she said.

“I was probably one of the least talented athletes in all of the incredible number of people that came out of Mountain Vista,” oennes said. “And I don’t say that humbly; I say that as a fact. I had the privilege of playing on a volleyball team where, I think, 12 out of 13 women went to a Division I school to play volleyball. I had a basketball team where I was the varsity benchwarmer. I just wasn’t quite in my body yet. I really was scrappy, though.”  at scrappiness took her to the world stage again. For more on her journey and focus going into Paris, check out the brief Q&A with oennes on the next page.

Jessica Thoennes’ path from Colorado to

Highlands Ranch native Jessica Thoennes (left) and her partner Azja Czajkowski pose for a photo after winning the pair at the 2024 U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Team Trials in April. The two rowers’

TEAM USA

To watch oennes in action, tune in on Sunday, July 28 at 2:30 a.m. MT on NBC or Peacock. For those without TV or streaming access, follow @womenintheboat on Instagram for updates, schedules and more. e full Olympics schedule can be found at www.olympics.com/en/paris-2024/schedule.

Colorado Community Media: How did you

become an Olympian and Division I athlete if you weren’t as good as the other girls on your Mountain Vista teams?

oennes:I was scrappy, determined and I outworked everybody else. ose were my characteristics in high school. I knew I wasn’t the biggest, I knew I wasn’t the fastest and I knew I wasn’t the strongest. So I had to be able to outwork, out-hustle and be willing to go just another inch to just make the team, which really helped when I went to college as a walk-on. I had never rowed before.

CCM: How did you get into rowing in college?

oennes:I had no idea what I was getting myself into. One of my characteristics is I say, ‘Well, how hard can it actually be?’ So I said to myself, ‘I’ll do it for a year. How hard could it be?’ And it turns out I was really bad. It was really hard. And I was like, “Well, I’ve really gotten myself up this creek without a paddle, so I better gure this out.’ It took me about two years to come around and gure things out. By the time I hit my junior year, I was like, ‘Oh, this is fantastic. I love this. is is incredible.’ So, I’ve always been scrappy. I’ve never been the No. 1. But I had a lot of try. I’m a bit of a stubborn creature and I just keep working at things.

CCM: What was your reaction to learning you made the Olympics again?

oennes: at was one of the best moments where, for a little bit, I was wondering if the three-and-a-half, four years that I’ve worked … You have all those thoughts that go through your head like, ‘Is this going to pay o ? Is this going to work?’ And in those moments, you can’t really think about that. But as soon as the buzzer went o , I was so elated because it was just a con rmation of, ‘Yeah, I do this really well and I have been doing this really well.’

CCM: How do you balance that elation with the quick turnaround of getting to work for Paris?

oennes: I think I did it a little bit better than I did last time. One, it comes with experience. But I think I just knew that if we wanted to really have a big impact on the pair eld, like Azja and I were both hoping, we needed to take a few days and celebrate, take a rest. en get right back to work.

CCM: What’s a typical day for you when you’re preparing for the Olympics?

oennes:I’m up every day super early. Out of the house by 6 o’clock. We do one practice in the morning, and that’s about two and a half hours; three once you get all your warmup stu in. Get o the water. I work in addition to rowing, so I’ll hop online for an hour or two to kind of decompress for practice and get some work sorted. en hop back in the boat or cross-train for an afternoon session. en I’ve been doing a ton of yoga. We are religious weightlifters. We are in the gym, at minimum twice a day, but usually three times a day.

CCM: As a pair, you’re relying on a partner heavily, but what are one or two things you feel you need to polish ahead of the Olympics?

oennes: Every pair has its own unique dynamic in what you need to do. As the stroke seat, something that I really needed to solidify in these past couple of months has been providing a rhythm that is followable and fast. at’s something that we have been working on super diligently. at falls a little heavier on my shoulders, but Azja certainly contributes in that aspect. She’s got all the power back there. She’s hauling me around a lot of the time. Speci cally, I’ve really been working on my catch entry, which is the dynamic portion of rowing you can never be too good at. As your blade enters the water, you have to be patient to let it go all the way in and not jump on it before you’re fully buried. So my focus has been rhythm and catches.

Jessica Thoennes (middle) shares a moment with her fellow rowers between competitions. As one of the members of the pair team, Thoennes said her success comes from doing her part but also relying on her partner to match her energy and rhythm. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROW2K

Azja Czajkowski (left) and Jessica Thoennes share a moment of relief in the boat. The duo won the pair at the 2024 U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Team Trials in April, which qualified them for the Summer Olympics in Paris this month.

READER

quality live music accessible in Denver. Get tickets at www.dazzledenver.com.

ABOUT LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Vampire Weekend at Red Rocks

For my money, Vampire Weekend has remained one of the best and most innovative indie rock bands since their debut album was released back in 2008. ey’ve only released ve albums over their 16year career, but they clearly priori-

tize quality over quantity. is year’s release, “Only God Was Above Us,” is perhaps their most experimental and inquisitive yet.

In support of the album, Vampire Weekend is playing Red Rocks, 18300 W. Alameda Parkway in Morrison, at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 19. ey’ll be joined by young blues

great Christone “King sh” Ingram, making for a truly eclectic and entertaining evening.

Get tickets at www.axs.com.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail. com.

Colorado Community Media welcomes letters to the editor. Please note the following rules:

• Email your letter to kfiore@coloradocommunitymedia.com. Do not send via postal mail. Put the words “letter to the editor” in the email subject line.

• Submit your letter by 5 p.m. on Wednesday in order to have it considered for publication in the following week’s newspaper.

• Letters must be no longer than 400 words.

• Letters should be exclusively submitted to Colorado Community Media and should not submitted to other outlets or previously posted on websites or social media. Submitted letters become the property of CCM and should not be republished elsewhere.

• Letters advocating for a political candidate should focus on that candidate’s qualifications for o ce. We cannot publish letters that contain unverified negative information about a candidate’s opponent. Letters advocating for or against a political candidate or ballot issue

will not be published within 12 days of an election.

• Publication of any given letter is at our discretion. Letters are published as space is available.

• We will edit letters for clarity, grammar, punctuation and length and write headlines (titles) for letters at our discretion.

• Please don’t send us more than one letter per month. First priority for publication will be given to writers who have not submitted letters to us recently.

• Submit your letter in a Word document or in the body of an email. No PDFs or Google Docs, please.

• Include your full name, address and phone number. We will publish only your name and city or town of residence, but all of the information requested is needed for us to verify you are who you say you are.

We’d like to know about events or activities of interest to the community. Visit www.clearcreekcourant.com/calendar/ and post your event online for free. Email ckoeberl@coloradocommunitymedia. com to get items in the newspaper. Items will appear in print on a space-available basis.

SATURDAY

Clear Creek Library District: Enjoy a Mountain Jams 2024 free concert from 2-3 p.m. Saturday, July 20 at John Tomay Memorial Library 605 6th St. Georgetown.

e Mount Blue Sky Hill Climb: e iconic bicycle race that takes place on the highest paved road in the United States is Saturday, July 20. e course starts in the City of Idaho Springs at 7,500 feet and travels to the upper parking lot of Mount Blue Sky Scenic and Historic Byway at 14,130 feet. Infor-

mation at www.bicyclerace.com.

UPCOMING

Rapidgrass Music Festival: e Clear Creek Metropolitan Recreation District music festival in Idaho Springs is slated for Aug. 2-3. Bluegrass music at the Shelly/Quinn ball elds: https:// rapidgrassfestival.com/ Overnight camping is available.

Clear Creek Democrats: Join us at the Idaho Springs Sports Complex on August 10th from 2-6 p.m. to celebrate our Democracy, enjoy BBQ/beer/mead and treats, children’s games, live music and speeches from our candidates and elected o cials.

ONGOING

CASA of the Continental Divide seeks volunteers:CASACD promotes and protects the best interests of abused and neglected

children involved in court proceedings through the advocacy efforts of trained CASA volunteers. Be the di erence and advocate for the youth in our community. e o ce can be reached at 970-5139390.

Test sirens scheduled: In an effort to notify people in the town of Georgetown of potential ooding due to the unlikely event of a dam failure at Xcel Energy’s Cabin Creek or Georgetown hydroelectric plants, sirens will be tested the rst Wednesday of every month.

Clear Creek EMS/Evergreen Fire Rescue Launch Mugs for Rugs Campaign: Bring an old throw rug and you’ll leave with a bright green mug! You can bring them to Station 1A in Dumont, 3400 Stanley Road, or you can email captains@clearcreekems. com and CCEMS will come to you

to make the trade. Clear Creek EMS also o ers fall-risk assessments by bringing someone from the re department to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. To request a visit, ll out the form at clearcreekcounty.us/1388/Community-Outreach.

Clear Creek Democrats: e Clear Creek Democrats meet from 5-7 p.m. the third ursday of the month at the Vintage Moose in Idaho Springs. Join them for conversation and social time.

Blue Spruce Habitat volunteers needed: Blue Spruce Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers. A variety of opportunities and exible schedules are available on new construction sites as well as for exterior minor home

SEE CURRENTS, P14

CURRENTS

repairs. No previous construction experience needed. Contact volunteer@bluesprucehabitat.org for information.

Walk-in vaccine clinics: Walk-in vaccine clinics for adults and children needing u and other vaccines are available from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays at the Clear Creek Health and Wellness Center, 1969 Miner St., Idaho Springs. No appointments required for the vaccines, though you can pre-register by calling 303-670-7528.

Resilience1220 counseling: Young people 12 to 20 can get free counseling through an Evergreen-based organization called Resilience1220. Composed of licensed therapists, Resilience1220 serves individuals

and groups in the foothills including Clear Creek County. ey also facilitate school and community groups to build life skills in wellness and resilience among youth. For more information or to schedule a counseling session, visit R1220.org, email Resilience1220@gmail.com or call 720282-1164.

Dental clinics: Cleanings, X-rays, dentures, tooth extractions and more. Most insurances are accepted including Medicaid. Sliding scale/ low-cost options are also available. No appointment necessary. is is a mobile dentist that comes once a month. Call program manager Lauralee at 720-205-4449 for questions.

Clear Creek Rotary 2000 meetings: Clear Creek Rotary 2000 meets at 7:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Marion’s of the Rockies. 2805 Colorado Blvd., Idaho Springs. For more information, email loe er806@comcast.net.

Support After Suicide Loss: A safe place to share and learn after losing a loved one to suicide. is group meets every fourth Wednesday of the month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. via Zoom or in person at the Resilience1220 ofce. For ages 14 and up. Suggested donation for this group is $15. Register at resilience1220.org/groups.

Storytime with Miss Honeybun: Storytime with Miss Honeybun is at 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays at the Idaho Springs Public Library and at 11:15 a.m. ursdays at the John Tomay Memorial Library in Georgetown.

Sensitive Collection: Resilience1220 strives to inform and support highly sensitive people to live healthy and empowered lives. It meets the third Wednesday of each month from 6-7 p.m. and is o ered via Zoom or in person at the Resilience1220 o ce. Register at resilience1220.org/groups.

REVERSE MORTGAGES

Public Health o ering sexual health and family planning: Clear Creek County Public Health is now o ering Sexual Health and Planning Services at the Health and Wellness Center in Idaho Springs. Public Health o ers counseling, emergency contraception, pregnancy testing, STI and HIV screenings, basic infertility services and birth control options and referrals. ese services are con dential. Public Health can also now bill Medicaid and most private insurance. However, if you do not have insurance, fees are based on a sliding scale — and no one will be turned away if they are unable to pay.

Clear Creek County Lookout Alert: e CodeRED alerts have been replaced by the Lookout Alert. Residents can sign up for emergency alerts county-wide by signing up at www.lookoutalert.co. e new site replaces CodeRED following the switch to Je Com911 for emergency dispatch earlier this year.

These Colorado schools will get Juul lawsuit settlement money for education and prevention

BY MELANIE ASMAR CHALKBEAT COLORADO

Twenty-one Colorado school districts, seven charter schools, one cooperative education services board, and one youth residential treatment center have been awarded $11.4 million in funding over the next three years for vaping education and prevention programs.

e money comes from a $31.7 million settlement between the state of Colorado and e-cigarette manufacturer Juul Labs Inc. Colorado sued Juul in 2020, alleging that it targeted youth with deceptive marketing and played down the health risks of vaping. In settling the lawsuit, Juul did not admit any wrongdoing.

Colorado is poised to spend the bulk of the settlement money on a $20 million grant program aimed at improving children’s mental health. But the state is also giving smaller grants directly to school districts, nonpro t organizations, and government entities.

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser announced the recipients of the smaller grants in a press release Tuesday. e school district and school recipients are:

Alamosa School District: $244,968

Atlas Preparatory School in Colorado Springs: $85,000

Aurora Public Schools: $140,267

AXL Academy in Aurora: $238,000

Bennett School District: $218,547

Center School District: $198,098

Chavez-Huerta Preparatory Academy in Pueblo: $46,940

Colorado Military Academy in Colorado Springs: $117,471

Dolores County School District: $45,681

Downtown Denver Expeditionary School in Denver: $78,000

DSST Public Schools in Denver and Aurora: $114,000

Eagle County School District: $213,353

Elizabeth School District: $130,217

Fountain-Fort Carson School District: $131,009

Gunnison Watershed School District: $74,534

Harrison School District: $253,405

Lake County School District: $87,543

Mancos School District: $54,300

Mapleton Public Schools: $36,681

Montrose County School District: $100,000

New Legacy Charter School in Aurora: $71,624

North Park School District:

$187,545

Pueblo County School District 70: $127,657

San Luis Valley BOCES: $273,870 School District 49: $126,961

Sierra Grande School District:

$100,985

Southern Peaks Regional Treatment Center in Cañon City: $36,181

Steamboat Springs School District: $125,635

Strasburg School District:

$91,500

Summit School District: $50,000

Twelve nonpro t organizations and government entities were awarded a total of $6 million. ose recipients are:

21st Judicial District Attorney’s O ce, Juvenile Diversion Lighthouse Program: $224,010 for a vaping education program for youth in Mesa County, with a focus on rural communities

Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado, Inc.: $855,979 for community engagement and youth substance use prevention and peer-led programs at 50 clubs across Colorado

Broom eld Public Health and Environment: $202,184 for nicotine replacement therapy and peer support programs to help young people quit vaping, with a focus on LGBTQ+ youth

Denver Department of Public Health and Environment: $541,158 for nicotine replacement therapy, community engagement, and trauma-informed counseling for youth

Mountain Youth: $500,000 for vaping prevention education, media campaigns, cessation programs, and youth-led initiatives in the Eagle River Valley

Je erson County Public Health: $400,000 for vaping education and cessation services for youth

Partners of Delta, Montrose & Ouray: $297,161 for mentors who will support middle and high school students with behavioral issues through school-based programs

Partners for Youth: $335,487 for an initiative to connect youth in Routt County with trusted adults

Colorado reins in HOAs foreclosure powers

BY JESSE PAUL THE COLORADO SUN

Colorado homeowners associations will have a tougher time foreclosing on their residents for unpaid debt starting in August.

House Bill 1337, signed by Gov. Jared Polis in early June, creates new hurdles for HOAs before they can le for foreclosure and limits how much associations can charge in attorney fees when they are trying to collect what they’re owed. It also gives homeowners and renters a second chance at keeping their properties in the event a house is foreclosed on by an HOA and sold at auction.

“( is bill) really gets at the pieces of this process and how it works that we were really seeing lead to the most devastating foreclosures,” said Melissa Mejia, director of state and local policy at the Community Economic Defense Project, which was one of the main groups behind the bill.

e measure, passed by the legislature in April, is aimed in part at making good on a promise from the governor and lawmakers to change the state’s HOA laws following a Colorado Sun investigation published last year. e investigation revealed Colorado HOAs had led roughly 3,000 foreclosure cases between 2018 and June 2023, more than 250 of which — or roughly 8% — resulted in properties being auctioned o , most for well below market value.

At least 100 of the auctioned properties sold for $60,000 or less, according to court records analyzed by e Sun, costing homeowners much — if not all — of the equity they had accrued.

ere were an estimated 2.7 million Coloradans living in an HOAgoverned community at the end of last year, or roughly half of the state’s population.

House Bill 1337 also builds on other measures passed by Colorado lawmakers aimed at making HOA foreclosures more rare.

e new law says an HOA can’t le for foreclosure against a resident unless it has rst led a lawsuit to collect its debt or led an involuntary bankruptcy petition against the homeowner.

Additionally, the law limits the amount in attorneys fees an HOA can charge a homeowner to $5,000, or 50% of their debt — whichever is less. ere would be an exception for people who are able to pay higher amounts but wilfully did not pay their debts to the HOA and the cap would increase annually based on in ation.

e Sun investigation found that attorneys fees can be much higher than $5,000 and frequently make up a quarter or more of what a homeowner eventually owes their HOA.

Finally, the measure imposes a “ rst right of redemption” on HOAforeclosed homes sold at auction, giving homeowners, tenants, a ord-

able housing nonpro ts, a community land trust, a cooperative housing corporation and the state or local government — in that order — 30 days to le an a davit stating their intent to purchase the property.

ey would then have 180 days after the sale to come up with the money and complete the deal.

HOA groups expressed concerns about the bill and how it may a ect associations’ ability to collect unpaid debt, forcing them to ask homeowners who do keep up with their payments to fork over more money. e attorneys fee cap was also a point of contention because of how it could lead to higher bills for compliant homeowners.

House Bill 1337 was sponsored by four Democrats: Reps. Iman Jodeh of Aurora and Jennifer Bacon of Denver, as well as Sens. James Coleman of Denver and Tony Exum of Colorado Springs.

A separate measure aimed at addressing HOA foreclosures failed at the Capitol this year by a single vote in the state House.

House Bill 1158 would have required that the minimum bid for HOA-foreclosed homes being sold at auction be set at roughly 60% of the property’s market value. Right now, the minimum bid is set at whatever the homeowner owes their HOA, which may only be a few thousand dollars.

e Sun found one HOA-foreclosed home in Aurora that was

auctioned o in 2021 for $5,000. e owner owed the HOA $4,889.31, which became the starting bid. About six months later, the condominium was resold on the open market for $420,000.

Another HOA measure that was rejected by the legislature was House Bill 1078, which would have required that property managers operating HOAs be licensed with the state starting in July 2025. e governor vetoed a similar measure in 2019.  ree other HOA measures were passed by the legislature this year and signed into law:

• House Bill 1233, which rolls back a requirement in a bill passed by the legislature in 2022 that homeowners associations must physically post a notice on a home when an owner owes them money. However, it adds that the HOA must mail a notice and contact the owner by two of the following: telephone, email or text message.

• House Bill 1091, which prohibits a homeowners association from restricting the installation, use or maintenance of re-hardened building materials in residential property.

• Senate Bill 134, which prohibits an HOA from restricting a member from operating a business out of their home.

is story was printed through a news sharing agreement with e Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned nonpro t based in Denver that covers the state.

BY

Evergreen Jazz Festival returns for 21st event

Three-day fest will feature new acts and old favorites at five community venues

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A jazz festival renowned for its unique, intimate venues and mountain setting returns to Evergreen late this month. e 21st Evergreen Jazz Festival is July 26, 27 and 28, and features bands playing at ve venues scattered around the area.

In keeping with the festival’s goal of education and drawing new fans to jazz, the event opens with an educational concert and includes stu-

dent clinics taught by festival musicians.

“Our festival is di erent,” said Jim Reiners, the event’s marketing director. “Most jazz festivals these days are held in hotels. ey don’t begin to o er the same kind of listening environment our venues do. e multi-venue program we use is like a much more traditional festival. It’s an up-close and personal atmosphere with world-class bands. I think people like that, and they love coming up to the mountains.”

Venues include the Evergreen Lake House, Evergreen Christian Church, Center Stage and the ballroom and patio at the Evergreen Elks Lodge.

Each year’s lineup features some returning favorite acts as well as

a few newcomers. is year, new acts include Arkansas-based Hal Smith’s El Dorado Jazz Band. Some members of the group performed together in southern California in the 1960s.

“Hal was at our very rst festival and is just a world-class performer,” Reiners said. “ is is a new group he’s put together.”

Another is the Chicago Cellar Boys, a Windy City group formed in 2017 that specializes in the classic jazz and dance styles of the 1920s and 30s.

While Reiner’s excited about the new groups, he said festival-goers have traditionally been happy with the event lineup.

“We have comment cards each year so patrons can tell us what they

think,” he said. “ ey all want every band brought back every year, which speaks to the quality of the music.”

Reiners, now an Austin, Texas resident, helped launch the festival in 2001 when he lived in Evergreen. He worked closely with event founder Sterling Nelson, who died in 2020. Volunteers are still needed to help with various aspects of the event, with free tickets awarded for the amount of time worked, Reiners said.

Tickets range from $60 to $165. e $165 three-day pass includes full admission to all events. Tickets for speci c days and times can also be purchased.

For more information and tickets, visit evergreenjazz.org.

This summer, take simple steps for be er air

It’s another hot, sunny, bluesky day in Denver. The air is still and looks clear! Despite the beautiful day, you may feel irritation in your throat or a tightness in your chest while out walking the dog, at the park, riding your bike, or on an afternoon run. Your asthma may also be acting up.

This is likely the impact of ground-level ozone: the Front Range’s most pressing air quality problem each summer. We can’t see or smell it, but this pollutant accumulates the most on hot and sunny blue-sky days, reaching its highest levels in the afternoons and evenings.

While ozone serves an important purpose high up in the atmosphere — protecting us from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation — at ground level, high concentrations of ozone are unhealthy. Ozone makes it difficult to breathe, increases our susceptibility to respiratory infections, and exacerbates respiratory ailments such as asthma.

High ozone levels affect all of us. Even if you are healthy, ozone can impact the cells in your lungs during and after exposure, like

sunburn, and repeated exposure over time can lead to reduced lung function. The people at higher risk of exposure or more sensitive to this air pollution include the elderly, those with respiratory conditions, outdoor workers, outdoor athletes, and especially children, whose lungs are still developing.

Where does this air pollution come from? Ground-level ozone is not directly emitted from any source. It forms in the air when two chemicals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), react in the sunshine and heat of summer days. These chemicals are called ozone precursors, and they are released into the air from emissions made by our gaspowered vehicles, gas-powered lawn equipment, and oil and gas production across the Front Range.

Both colorless and odorless, ozone is different than wildfire smoke, tiny particulate matter called PM2.5 or PM10, and the visible Denver “brown cloud” of years past. However, ozone can combine with other air quality issues, and is sometimes referred to as “smog.”

errands, or taking the bus or the light rail to get where you need to go. Don’t forget: youth ride for free on RTD! For shorter distances, leave the car at home and walk, ride a scooter, or your bike or e-bike.

Fuel up your car after 5 p.m. to avoid releasing emissions during the heat of the day. Skip idling your car: instead, roll down the windows and turn off the engine while waiting in parking lots or lines. Consider a low- or zeroemissions vehicle, like an electric vehicle (EV), when it’s time to purchase a new vehicle.

While air quality in the region has greatly improved in the past half century, ozone remains a pressing issue to our health and environment. But as our gas-powered vehicles and gas-powered lawn equipment contribute to its formation, we all have the power to reduce ground-level ozone in the Front Range each summer!

First, sign up for ozone alerts. Visit SimpleStepsBetterAir.org to sign up for emails or text “BetterAirCO” to 21000 to receive air quality alerts on your phone. When the Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE) forecasts a high ozone day, the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) will send you a timely text or email to let you know.

On high ozone days, protect your health by avoiding outdoor exercise or heavy exertion between noon and 8 p.m. Still want to get outside? Plan ahead and spend time outside in the morning, or later in the evening, when ozone levels will be lower.

Second, reduce your emissions! Take some Simple Steps for Better Air: Skip two car trips per week by carpooling, combining

Mow the lawn after 5 p.m. if you still use gas-powered equipment. Even better, upgrade your old gas lawn mower, trimmer, or leaf blower to a new electric one with a 30% state discount at participating retailers this year!

And if your job can be done remotely, work from home at least one day a week and eliminate your commute altogether.

Taking these timely, simple steps in the summer improves our Front Range air quality, our health, and our ability to enjoy the outdoors! Visit SimpleStepsBetterAir.org for more information about how to reduce your ozone impact this summer and help your community breathe easier.

Keep Colorado Wild Passes a boon to programs

Colorado Parks and Wildlife, avalanche forecasting, search and rescue groups benefit from the program

BY JASON BLEVINS THE COLORADO SUN

More than 1.5 million Colorado vehicle owners have delivered more than $40 million to Colorado Parks and Wildlife by including a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass as part of their annual registrations.

e rst scal year of Keep Colorado Wild pass sales ended June 30 with revenue reaching $40.9 million. at uno cial tally — nal numbers will be updated by the fall — means that parks, wildlife, backcountry search and rescue volunteers, and avalanche forecasters will get boosts in funding in the coming year.

e Keep Colorado Pass plan that launched in January 2023 adds $29 to every vehicle registration in the state unless owners opt out. e pass provides access to all state parks. e 2021 legislation that created the program hoped to generate more revenue than the annual $80 parks pass that delivered $23 million to CPW in 2020. Early projections hoped CPW would harvest at least $36 million in annual revenue from the new parks pass plan.

at plan set aside the rst $32.5 million in Keep Colorado Wild Pass sales revenue for the state’s 42 parks. en $2.5 million would go to

SETTLEMENT

and engage them in positive activities to prevent substance use

Rocky Mountain Center for Health, Promotion and Education:

$800,000 for a program that will train adults to build strong connections with youth in school, family, and community settings

Servicios de La Raza: $950,000 to deploy a bilingual vaping-cessation program for Latino youth

more than 50 Colorado Backcountry Search and Rescue, or BSAR, organizations. And the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, or CAIC, will get $1 million.

At $36 million, the tap would return to CPW for wildlife funding for trails, wildlife programs and diversity and inclusion projects.

e roughly 2,800 volunteers who serve on Colorado’s search and rescue teams secure about $9 million a year through fundraising. e additional Keep Colorado Wild Pass funds will ease that fundraising burden.

“ e hope is to make it easier on volunteer responders so they don’t have to do the same kind of fundraising,” said Je Sparhawk, the head of Colorado Search and Rescue Association, which has helped work out a formula to distribute the funds to search and rescue teams based on the size of the area they cover, the number of calls for help and the size of the rescue teams.   at $9 million gure is just how much the volunteers raise through their communities. It does not include spending by county sheri departments that oversee search and rescue teams, nor does it account for the amount individual volunteers spend on equipment and travel for rescue missions and training.

CPW projected revenue from Keep Colorado Wild Pass sales would land between $21.5 million and $54 million. It was a wide range because no one knew for sure how Colorado drivers might react to the additional $29 fee on their annual vehicle registration bill. ere were more than 5 million cars and light trucks regis-

University of Colorado/Colorado School of Public Health UpRISE:

$544,018 to expand a youth-led social justice movement for tobacco control

Youth Healthcare Alliance:

$350,000 for a program in which school-based health centers will participate in an alternative-to-discipline initiative for youth who are caught vaping is story was printed through a news sharing agreement with Chalkbeat Colorado, a nonpro t news site covering educational change in public schools.

tered in Colorado in 2023 and about 30% are included in the Keep Colorado Wild Pass program.

Tra c patterns from those new pass holders will not be known until CPW releases recent visitor tallies to Colorado’s state parks. In scal 2023 — which ended June 30, 2023 with only six months of Keep Colorado Pass sales — there were 17.9 million state park visitors, down from a pandemic peak of 19.5 million 2020.

For the past two years, the state legislature has sent extra funding to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, enabling an overhauled website and forecasting system for the 2022-23 season and a new avalanche awareness campaign as well as forecasts and educational materials in Spanish. e center also con-

verted some part-time positions into full-time jobs, expanding its roster of avalanche forecasters into more communities.

Last month, CAIC forecasters met with Avalanche Canada to map out a 10-year plan for using new technologies and forecasting tools to further grow avalanche awareness and safety in the backcountry.

Ethan Greene, the head of CAIC, said the new funding “will help support this strategic work to provide more accurate and speci c avalanche forecasts for the Colorado mountains.”

is story was printed through a news sharing agreement with e Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned nonpro t based in Denver that covers the state.

Colorado’s

BY OLIVIA PRENTZEL

THE COLORADO SUN

ree years after lawmakers allocated $30 million to purchase its rst “Firehawk,” the modi ed military helicopter that is capable of quickly crisscrossing Colorado to detect and douse ames is nally ready for action.

But that doesn’t mean it will be called to attack the next wild re that sparks as overgrown fuels dry up in the sti ing summer heat.

Highly specialized training for four primary pilots is complete but whether the one-of-a-kind aircraft is called to the next re depends on what other resources are available nearest to the re, said Mike Morgan, director of Colorado’s Division of Fire Prevention and Control.

“We’ll send the closest available helicopter,” Morgan said. “It might be a large air tanker, might be a single-engine tanker, depending on what the re is doing — it’s di erent tools in the toolbox. Sometimes you need a hammer, sometimes you need a screwdriver, and so that’s why we have a wide array of resources.”

e state’s second Firehawk, which was purchased last year, arrived in Colorado at the end of June and is expected to be operational by August 2025, Morgan said.

e rst chopper — purchased at $26 million plus more to cover operational costs — was highly anticipated, as o cials told the public it would go into service earlier this year to help Colorado ght res, which are becoming larger and more frequent as climate change causes dangerously dry conditions across the Western U.S.

e purchase of Firehawks was part of the state’s push to rely less on rented aircraft to ght wild res. In 2020, for instance, when Colorado had the three largest wild res in its history, the state struggled to secure the aircraft it needed because there were also res burning in California, New Mexico, and several other states.

When the rst one was purchased in 2021, it had not been built yet, Morgan said. is particular model was built in Poland, shipped to Texas and then brought to Colorado, where it was disassembled as a military aircraft and then rebuilt with new technology to be able to ght res.  en after a delay in delivery, the

Aurora’s Paul Toth poses with him dog, Snoop, pose for a photo on a recent hike. Toth said he is torn but if he had to choose, he’d go with the Epic Pass.

Ikon or Epic Pass? We asked 13 locals for their opinion

JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

ough we just eclipsed the Fourth of July, it’s smart to start thinking about gearing up for the winter season again. Colorado is the ultimate outdoor playground for skiing and snowboarding, but the options can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just getting into the sport(s).

Aside from hitting the backcountry, you’ll likely need to visit one of roughly 40 prominent resorts seasoned throughout the Rocky Mountains. It’s no secret they can get pricey, with day passes topping a couple hundred dollars.

at’s why most powder-crazy Coloradans purchase an Ikon or an Epic Pass. Depending on the option you choose, the pass can provide access to dozens of resorts not just in Colorado, but worldwide.

Instead of waiting for temperatures to drop, many slopeheads believe summer is the best time to load up on used gear and secure season passes. Other than price, several factors might determine which pass you favor.

So, we asked eight locals for their

“When I was in college in Colorado Springs, me and all my friends got the Epic Pass because there was a great college discount with access to lots of great mountains. However, since moving to Denver I’ve been on Ikon and believe it is the better of the two passes. If I leave early enough on the weekend, I can get to Winter Park in just over an hour and avoid the I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel tra c. Epic does not o er any mountains this close. Despite its proximity, Winter Park has also become one of my favorite mountains from a pure snowboarding perspective, with highly variable terrain perfect for any group I might take there. While I do get FOMO for not having access to Breckenridge, Vail or Telluride through the Epic Pass, these mountains are all further than Winter Park and give o a more bougie, rich, tourist vibe that doesn’t appeal to me. Additionally, I am from Los Angeles and my home resort is Mammoth Mountain. Given that Mammoth is on the Ikon Pass, it is very convenient to be able to go home for the holidays and use the

same pass I use in Colorado. Ikon also has great mountains all over the world. I am already planning a trip to Japan this winter to ski at Niseko.”

— Kyle Warner, Denver - LoHi

“Ikon is the move. Fewer options but fewer crowds. Plus, you get seven days at Arapahoe Basin and Aspen, and you get seven days at a lot of cool resorts. So if you plan to travel, you could hit Big Sky (Montana), Jackson Hole (Wyoming), Deer Valley (Utah), Taos (New Mexico), Sun Valley (Idaho), etc. One winter I did a trip to Big Sky and that alone made getting the pass worth it because day passes are so expensive.”

— Catherine Dodge, Wheat Ridge

“I most enjoy the people I’ve met while skiing Ikon mountains. ey always have great vibes and made the skiing even more enjoyable than the world-class mountains. e tailgating at Arapahoe Basin is unmatched and hard to nd a better group of mountain-loving people.”

— Alex Greene, Littleton

“I have the Ikon Pass and prefer it because of the mountains in Colorado as I nd them to be less touristy. I also enjoy being able to go to certain mountains on Ikon when I go home back east.”

— Isabelle Risse, Denver - Sloan’s Lake

Epic

“When deciding between Ikon and Epic it’s been tough in the past. However lately Epic has been our pass of choice although we have both. ere are more Epic options on the pass and mountains like Keystone have been a bit less crowded with great conditions.

Epic was also gracious enough to let us take advantage of early season pricing when we thought our passes were on auto-renew and they were not. Ikon would not allow us to get the same price. We had to pay midseason pricing.”

— Justin Scott, Georgetown

“When I rst moved to Denver, we went with Epic because those were the resorts that had more recognizable names. After two years we switched to Ikon. is year we’ll be going back to Epic. If you’re coming from Denver, Epic has more resorts within driving distance, but it also draws out bigger tourism crowds.

Ikon

Kyle Warner, of Denver, poses for a photo on one of the many resorts provided by the Ikon Pass in Colorado.

COURTESY PHOTOS

PASSES

In my opinion, I think it’s because those names like Vail, Breckenridge, and Crested Butte are more recognizable. I felt more limited with Ikon but crowds are better and the resorts were well worth only having two or three nearby for day trips. Some years I feel like the higher price tag with Ikon is worth it, and some years I want to hit the Epic resorts for the better scenery and deal with the crowds. If I had to pick just one, I’d probably grumble for a whole week and then decide on Epic.”

— Paul Toth, Aurora

“Grew up riding Epic mountains and they’re still my favorite places to go. Vibes are better, runs are wider, less moguls, less ice. What snowboarder wants to spend their day on moguls and ice? Bought Ikon last year to see what the hype was about and wasn’t super happy with it.”

— Sarah Samuel, Denver - Capitol Hill

“Ultimately, I chose the Epic Pass as it was what the majority of my friends purchased. I’m a big fan of the Epic Pass because I liked being

able to go to Keystone and Breckenridge for the day. It also was a great excuse to travel to Park City and get some skiing in. I have a few friends who ski Vail exclusively, so it’s nice to be able to go there for a few days too.”

— Annie Strongwater, DenverWest Colfax

“We’re lucky to have tons of nearby options on both passes here in Denver. I did Epic for the rst two years when I rst moved out here because, as a Navy guy, the price on

Epic couldn’t be beat. When I got out of the military, I gave Ikon a try and I fell in love with Winter Park. I’ve yet to have a single bad day at Winter Park early season, late season, or heavy powder. I could loop Panoramic all day and being able to bail on I-70 early on the trip can’t be understated. I’ve gone back this to Epic resorts this year to save money since im getting fewer days in with a oneyear-old at home. ey are great as well but you have to get far from the base and stay away from that area

because Keystone, Breckenridge and Vail are painful to navigate the learner and family crowds causing astronomical lift lines on the front sides. I am looking forward to seeing those legendary back bowls at Vail again.”

— Chaz DeSio, Aurora

“Honestly, whatever is cheaper, which is Epic. I got Winter Park this year only because I can take the train and it’s cheaper than Ikon. I love to ski but I don’t need access to that many mountains.”

— Dana Itah, Denver - Sloan’s Lake

Both

“I have both Ikon and Epic Pass as it gives me the exibility to go to any mountain I want and not be restricted on where and when I can go.”

— Aileen Mendez, Denver - LoHi

“I have both. I think Ikon is better for day trips and then I have Epic for trips to Vail.”

— Ryan Larkin, Denver - Highlands

Neither

“Haven’t bought a pass before, but considering one for next season. Most likely Epic, but it’s dependent on which route friends are going.”

— Matt Fitzpatrick, Denver - LoHi

Sarah Samuel from Cap Hill poses with a friend at one of the resorts o ered with the Epic Pass. COURTESY PHOTO

Large crowd comes to Evergreen for action-packed Foothills 4th

The event featured log rolling, carnival games, baby goat yoga, live music and more

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Evergreen’s Foothills 4th — its rst Independence Day celebration in several years — drew a large crowd from the foothills to the Front Range for a day of old-fashioned, familyfriendly fun. Log rolling, live chainsaw art demonstrations, carnival games, music and dancing, baby goat yoga and a bike parade highlighted the eight-hour event at Buchanan Park.

Foothills 4th was coordinated jointly by the Evergreen Park & Recreation District and the Evergreen Chamber of Commerce.

With an already solid line-up of attractions, the weather added the perfect touch to the day. Temperatures in Evergreen hovered in the ‘70s, inspiring some people to start dancing as early as 1 p.m.

e Chris King band kicked o a series of four bands that kept music going until the festivities ended at 8 p.m.

Cooler temps and ample kids’ activities drew people from beyond Evergreen.

“Golden just doesn’t do as much on the 4th as they used to, so we came up here,” said Lindsay Blaun, whose 9-year-old son Westley hit the plate hard enough to sound the bell on the ring-the-bell carnival game.

“We did the bike parade and everything here. is is neat.”

Steven Wainio brought his twin boys from Lakewood up for the day and was happy to see lots of games for kids.

“It’s keeping them well entertained,” he said, watching the boys play a life-sized version of Connect 4.

e logrolling event, set up in a large, portable pool, drew plenty of spectators and participants.

EPRD lifeguard omas Misiewicz got the event going, balancing on the red-and-yellow plastic log.

“It’s tons of fun,” he said. “I have a background in sur ng, and this is like connecting the dots.”

In another corner, three chainsaw artists carved huge sculptures that were o ered for sponsorship. Each will remain in a local park.

Fort Collins artist Matt Ounsworth, who carved an eagle in ight, said he did most of the work on his sculpture on July 3 so he could avoid the stress and enjoy the holiday.

“I think chainsaw’s the only thing I’m good at – chainsaws and drawing,” he said. “I love it. And I put a lot of e ort into it because I feel it’s a privilege to do this.”

Evergreen Chamber President Nancy Judge said Foothills 4th will be back in 2025.

“It was apparent that adding features like the wood carving showcase, baby goat yoga, log rolling competition and kids’ bike parade gave this festival such a hometown feel and highlighted simple pleasures,” she said. “We look forward to continuing this event next year and will continue to add features to make this a one-of-kind experience.”

Sally Kor and Kay Moore of Evergreen donned their finest patriotic duds for the Foothills 4th celebration. PHOTOS BY JANE REUTER

EPRD lifeguard Thomas Misiewicz of Evergreen gives the log roll a try during the Foothills 4th.

TRIVIA

1. TELEVISION: What is the name of the town in the sitcom “Parks and Recreation”?

2. GEOGRAPHY: e Earth’s equator runs through how many countries?

3. MOVIES: Who plays the character Morpheus in “ e Matrix”?

4. MYTHOLOGY: Which Greek hero was dipped in the River Styx as a baby and made almost invulnerable?

5. EXPLORERS: Which English explorer claimed Australia for Great Britain?

6. HISTORY: Which two Native American leaders fought Gen. George Custer’s troops at the Battle of Little Bighorn?

7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What are the two traditional owers associated with the July birth month?

8. LITERATURE: Which poem begins with the line, “Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary”?

9. ANATOMY: Where is the smallest skeletal muscle in the

human body located?

10. INVENTIONS: What medication, originally used to treat eye muscle spasms, later became a success in reducing facial wrinkles?

Answers

1. Pawnee, Indiana.

2. 13.

3. Laurence Fishburne.

4. Achilles.

5. James Cook.

6. Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull.

7. Larkspur and water lily.

8. “ e Raven” by Edgar Allen Poe.

9. Middle ear -- the stapedius.

10. Botox.

(c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

FLASHBACK

1. Name the lm that included these songs in the soundtrack: “Rock Around the Clock,” “Maybe Baby” and “Teen Angel.”

2. Which artist wrote and released “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)”?

3. Name the girl group that released “Love Is Here and Now You’re Gone.”

4. Which artist wrote and released “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”?

5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “I told this heart of mine our love could never be, But then I hear your voice and something stirs inside of me.”

Answers

1. “American Gra ti,” in 1973. e lm was so low-budget there wasn’t much money to pay for music licensing, with all publishers getting a small amount. RCA opted out, and no Elvis Presley songs were used on the soundtrack.

2. Stevie Wonder, in 1970. e song netter Wonder a sixth

Grammy nom.

3. e Supremes, in 1967. e song topped charts in the U.S., the U.K. and Canada.

4. Paul Simon, in 1975.

5. “My Heart Has a Mind of Its Own,” by Connie Francis in 1960. is chart-topper was recorded on three di erent days. e nal version was released, but weeks later, for unknown reasons, it was replaced by the second version.

(c) 2024 King Features Syndicate

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Quali ed applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to the Finance/Human Resources Director at arobbins@ cityofcentral.co or mail to P.O. Box 249 Central City, CO 80427. e position is open until 7/21/2024. EOE.

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Public Trustees

Public Notice

COMBINED NOTICEPUBLICATION CRS §38-38-103 FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 2024-005

To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

On May 7, 2024, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in the County of Clear Creek records.

Original Grantor(s)

Diana R Gray and James S Gray

Original Beneficiary(ies)

Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc, as beneficiary, as nominee for FPF WHOLESALE, A DIVISION OF STEARNS LENDING, INC.

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt

Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Mr. Cooper

Date of Deed of Trust

July 15, 2011 County of Recording Clear Creek

Recording Date of Deed of Trust

July 26, 2011

Recording Information

(Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.)

261221Book: 840 Page: 439

Original Principal Amount

$173,000.00

Outstanding Principal Balance

$150,982.73

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations thereof.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

LOT 12 A, BROOK FOREST ESTATES, FILING NO. 1, (AMENDED PLAT), COUNTY OF CLEAR CREEK, STATE OF COLORADO.

Purported common address: 375 Aspen Way, Evergreen, CO 80439.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt

secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, 09/05/2024, at The Clear Creek County Public Trustee’s Office, 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, Colorado, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication7/11/2024

Last Publication8/8/2024

Name of Publication

The Clear Creek Courant

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 05/07/2024

Carol Lee, Public Trustee in and for the County of Clear Creek, State of Colorado

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Aricyn J. Dall #51467

Randall S. Miller & Associates, P.C.-CO 216 16th Street, Suite 1210, Denver, CO 80202 (720) 259-6710

Attorney File # 23CO00279-2

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

Legal Notice No. CCC910

First Publication: July 11, 2024

Last Publication: August 8, 2024

Publisher: Clear Creek

The Project includes the following Work: Rockfall scaling of approximately 500 LF by 30-foot-high

Road and Cumberland Gulch Road.

Obtaining the Bidding Documents

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at the following designated website: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/bids.aspx

The RFB may be downloaded from the designated website. The designated website will be updated periodically with addenda and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. Plans and specifications will be made available to Prospective Bidders who register as described above.

Instructions to Bidders.

For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

This Advertisement is issued by:

George Marlin, Chair Board of County Commissioners

Legal Notice No. CCC923

First Publication: July 18, 2024

Last Publication: July 18, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant

Public Notice

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

General Notice

Clear Creek County (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project: Steep-Slope Improvements for Fall River Road RC 24-03

All bids must be received as follows no later than Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at 2:00 PM local time:

• Upload an electronic copy to an online submittal folder assigned to each Prospective Bidder that registers with the County; •Register as a Prospective Bidder via: Email: scanada@clearcreekcounty.us, Subject line: RFB RC 24-03

The Project includes the following Work: Rockfall scaling of approximately 500 LF by

FIREHAWK

engine was recalled, Morgan said.  “And so there were a bunch of things that just weren’t going quite right for us,” Morgan said.

e rst Firehawk is stationed at Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport in Je erson County, but can be moved anywhere in the state based on re conditions, he said. State ofcials are still working to determine the location of the second Firehawk.

e Firehawk can y at 160 mph when empty and 140 mph with a full load of water.

e Firehawk was not called to the Interlaken re, which ignited June 11 after a camp re was not properly doused near Twin Lakes before growing to more than 700 acres, because it wasn’t the nearest resource, Morgan said.

“When a re happens, we’re going to send the closest available one because that’s what makes the most sense, to get water on the re the soonest,” he said. “If we had a big re in Durango tomorrow, would the Firehawk be the rst aircraft to be deployed to it? No, because it’d y over the top of six other helicopters before it ever got there.”

‘Catch it before it gets big’

e Firehawk will give Colorado’s

re ghters “a leg up” in their initial attack and boost their chances of stopping a re while it’s still small, Morgan said.

A traditional re ghting helicopter must y to a landing zone near the re, hook a bucket up to the bottom of the helicopter, identify a water supply and then avoid ying over subdivisions and homes due to the weight it’s carrying.

“ ey’re quick, but by the time you go and land and hook things up, identify a water supply, close roadways and start bucket operations, you’ve got a delay in time,” Morgan said.

“ e Firehawk helicopter is di erent.”

e Firehawk, which has a 1,000-gallon tank attached, doesn’t have the same restrictions of not being able to y over roadways or subdivisions, he said. It also has a snorkel that allows re crews to ll the tank without ever landing.

It can also re ll its tank in about a minute or less before returning to the re.

“Catch it before it gets big — if we stop this unwanted re before it gets big, and before we lose 1,000 homes, and before we deal with ooding and mudslides for the next ve years, we’re saving millions and millions of dollars by being proactive with our investment,” Morgan said.

“And that’s what this whole thing is really about. It’s about reducing the impacts of these big res by providing early intervention to the unwanted

Public Notices

30-foot-high steep slope along the north side of Fall River Road between Rainbow Road and Cumberland Gulch Road.

Obtaining the Bidding Documents

Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at the following designated website: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/bids.aspx

The RFB may be downloaded from the designated website. The designated website will be updated periodically with addenda and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. Plans and specifications will be made available to Prospective Bidders who register as described above.

Instructions to Bidders

For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents.

Cynthia J. Jones

res.”

Based on a ve-year average, Colorado will spend $20 million for large res with 10% of overall costs going toward re suppression, he said.

“When you take a re that we nd when it’s small and we send a Firehawk helicopter to it and we put it out, those numbers don’t ring true,” he said. “We’re spending a little bit of money today and we’re saving millions on the back end.”

Colorado has several contracts with re ghting aircraft and positions them around the state depending on which area is seeing the highest frequency of res and where people and homes are at highest risk.

Colorado’s growing aerial re ghting eet also plays a role in reducing the rising insurance rates across the state, Morgan said. Coloradans are facing 50% to 100% price hikes for home and car insurance — or cancellation altogether — as climate disasters mount.

“If we don’t stop these large res from turning into con agration burning hundreds of homes, we’re not going to be able to get insurance,” Morgan said. “So this is an investment in a lot more than just helicopters. It’s much bigger than that.”

Fire outlook for the summer

Above-average snowpack levels across the state and a very wet spring and early summer is good news for Colorado’s re year. But that moisture

also translates to overgrown grasses that will soon dry out and become re fuel, Morgan said.  ere are also a lot of dead ponderosa and lodgepole trees that have been killed by the nefarious, burrowing mountain pine beetles.

“With the dead trees, that’s already ready to go. All it takes is for the light fuels to dry out, to carry it to those and we’re in trouble,” Morgan said.

It’s unclear how long the moisture is expected to last into the summer months, but forecasts suggest that southeastern Colorado could have higher than normal re activity this year, he said.

Southwestern Colorado is also getting a lot of moisture, but that could quickly dry up later in the summer, too. at part of the state saw its snowpack disappear much earlier than usual this season because of a rare, sudden and large melt in late April.

“We don’t have a lot of good data to tell us what’s going to happen as we transition from the moisture patterns,” Morgan said. “But we’re hopeful we can keep enough moisture to keep the light fuels green and then hopefully get a big snowpack to push it down so it doesn’t just end up being fuel for next spring.”  is story was printed through a news sharing agreement with e Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned nonpro t based in Denver that covers the state.

Legal Relationship Between Any Unknown Fathers, and the Minor Child filed by the Petitioners, Tanner John McClaren and Kayla Marie McClaren, and involving the child, Aspen McClaren (a/k/a Aspen Faith Muirhead and a/k/a Aspen Muirhead), born on May 20, 2024 in Nebraska.