Clear Creek County Library District asks voters for funding increase
BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Clear Creek County Libraries are asking voters and property owners for additional funding in the form of a mill levy to maintain services and personnel.
Proposition 6A will be on the state ballot in November asking Clear Creek County residents to approve a one mill levy increase to property taxes to fund what the district calls “ e unfortunate reality of the Library District losing nearly a third of its funding ($500,000)
The changing temperatures
shorter days in the mountains create a oncea-year spectacular show of colors in Georgetown.
PHOTO BY ERIN VALLIER
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
UPCOMING
Ghost Tours: Tuesdays Sept. 17Oct. 29. Idaho Springs Ghost Tours give “a trip through the darker parts of Idaho Springs history.” Ages 13 years old and up. For times and tickets contact Jessi Steele at jsteele@ccmrd.com.
fort 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.
Save Je co Parks (Public Forum): 6:30 p.m. Oct.10 at Evergreen Library, 5000 County Highway 73 in Evergreen. Public forum for Je erson County residents and visitors concerned with impacts of forest “thinning” in Open Space Parks. Visit coloradosmokescreen.org
Georgetown BigHorn Sheep Festival: 10 a.m. Nov. 9. 600 6th St. in Georgetown. Gateway Visitor Center o ers trained volunteers with binoculars and spotting scopes to help viewers locate bighorn sheep and offer a brief lesson on the animals.
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 e orts of trained CASA volunteers. Be the di erence and advocate for the youth in our community. e o ce can be reached at 970513-9390.
Test sirens scheduled: In an ef-
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 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 720205-4449 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.
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 condential. 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.
MILL VEVY
from the Henderson Mine in Clear Creek County.”
e Henderson, located west of the town of Empire in Clear Creek County, is a molybdenum mine and has historically been a major funding contributor to Clear Creek County and public agencies, according to public records.
e mine has announced scaled back production leading to ultimate closure in the future. As a result, it has scaled back donations and sales tax revenue to the county has declined, according to county records.
Supporters say the increase in property taxes would amount to approximately $31.80 per year for a Clear Creek home valued at $500,000 the tax would also be capped at $76.80 per year no matter the value of the home, according to Library District Director Libby Caplan.
“Libraries are the heart of the community, it’s one of those spaces that are free and safe to our community, o ering services and materials to any-
one, no matter who you are,” Caplan said.
As part of the initiative the library district launched a public service campaign, funded by state sources, according to Caplan.
Included in that campaign are how the library district says it would spend the additional funds:
• Developing special programs for kids
• Providing a safe gathering space for the community
• Expanding access to popular books and movies
• Increasing services for our aging population
• Continuing to o er cultural events, educational programs and local history archives for all
Former Clear Creek High School principal Chris Gould is part of the initiative and re-enforced the ideas and commitment of the library district.
“ ey should be looking for a ballot initiative 6A asking for our voters to support our local libraries with a one mill increase and that is to keep the operations going, people for programming it’s keeping the level we’ve had,” Gould said.
Guanella Pass o ers spectacular fall colors
Aspen leaves turn brilliant shades as cool weather comes
BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
e changing temperatures and shorter days in the mountains create a once-a-year spectacular show of colors in the high country.
Colorful leaves of the mountain aspens draw thousands of people from around the world and across
the country to Colorado to witness nature in its splendor, and Guanella Pass in Georgetown is its epitome, according to visitors.
“Growing up we spent a lot of time in the mountains. My grandparents lived in Evergreen so we were up here a lot, we used to sh the creek with my grandpa all the time and he passed away last year so it’s very special to be able to come up here still and have all of the memories,” Colorado native Dru Ogg said while walking with her 2-year-old son Hudson along the trails at Clear Lake o Guanella Pass.
MEET YOUR NEW PERSIAN MOTHER — PLAYED BY HER OWN SON
the aspens, begin a natural cycle in which chlorophyll production slows and eventually stops. Chlorophyll is the pigment that gives
leaves their green color, so when it breaks down, the green color disappears.
e technical de nition and ex-
Dru Ogg walks with her 2-year-old son Hudson along the trails at Clear Lake o Guanella Pass in Georgetown.
PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL
Discover more at your Clear Creek County library
KIDS PROGRAMS
BOOKFEST
5-7 p.m. Oct. 31
Stop by your Clear Creek County Library on Halloween for a FREE kids’ book and a sweet treat!
STORYTIMES
10 a.m. Oct. 4, 10 a.m. Oct. 11 at Idaho Springs Public Library
10 a.m. Oct. 18, 10 a.m. Oct. 25 at John Tomay Memorial Library
Share stories, play games, and get creative. Storytimes are a great opportunity to connect with other local families with young children!
FRIDAY VIRTUAL REALITY SESSIONS
2-4 p.m. Oct. 11 at John Tomay Memorial Library
2-4 p.m. Oct. 18 at Idaho Springs Public Library
Explore new worlds at our virtual reality sessions for young patrons ages 12 years and older. Please email heather@cccld.org to learn more and register.
WEREWOLF GAME DENS
3:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at John Tomay Memorial Library
3:30 p.m. Oct. 29 at Idaho Springs Public Library
Join us for howling-good fun! We’ll enjoy snacks and play the deductive game “Werewolf.” is game is appropriate for children aged 6 years and older.
GHOST FILES - TWEEN & TEEN PARA NORMAL INVESTIGATION
7-9 p.m. Oct. 25 at John Tomay Memorial Library
Meet professional paranormal investiga tors from Denver! We’ll learn about their equipment and attempt to measure para normal activity. Registration is required for this activity— please email holly@cccld.org to learn more. is activity is appropriate for kids aged 11 years and older.
ADULT PROGRAMS
ENGLISH WITH JEANNETTE
5-5:45 p.m. Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24 at John To may Memorial Library
Learn English vocabulary with Jeannette Peterson! Each lesson will cover a unit of practical vocabulary. English experience is not necessary, and registration isn’t required — come when you can!
BOOK GROUPS
Connect with other local readers at our monthly book groups. Email libby@cccld. org for information.
• Idaho Springs Book Group: 7. “State of Terror” by Hillary Rodham Clin ton and Louise Penny
• John Tomay Memorial Library Book Group: 3 p.m. Oct. 17. “ e Hidden Life of
Cecily Larson” by Ellen Baker
SPOOKY MIXOLOGY WORKSHOP
5:30 p.m. Oct 23 at Cooper’s on the Creek
Brew up a spooky cocktail with us! Huge thanks to Cooper’s on the Creek for hosting this Halloween mixology workshop and donating BOOze and bites. Costumes are welcome! is workshop is for adults aged 21 years and older. Space is limited! To reserve your spot, please email heather@cccld.org
PARANORMAL EVENING
7-9 p.m. Oct. 26 at John Tomay Memorial Library
Meet professional paranormal investigators from Denver! We’ll learn about their equipment and attempt to measure paranormal activity. Registration is required for this activity – please email holly@cccld.org to learn more.
CONNECT WITH US
Idaho Springs Public Library: 303-5672020
John Tomay Memorial Library (Georgetown): 303-569-2620
Email us at hello@cccld.org
Visit us at www.cccld.org
LIBRARY SERVICES
COLLECTION
Call or visit us to learn more and request items.
smart device to access thousands of e-books and e-audiobooks.
Do you have the Libby App? Download the Libby App by Overdrive to your smart device to access thousands of e-books and audiobooks, available for checkout with your library card. Visit https://cccld.org/libraryresources/ and click on the Overdrive/Libby icon to get started.
ONLINE RESOURCES
Many library resources are available online 24/7. Access young learner resources, academic research databases, digitized history archives, and more with your library card. Find our full catalog of online resources at https://cccld.org/library-resources/.
Local History Archives: visitors are welcome with an appointment.
Curbside pickup services: available by appointment; please contact us to schedule your pickup.
HOME DELIVERY
Let us bring the library to you! Call us for details. Home delivery services are intended for homebound persons and patrons experiencing illness, and availability is determined by weather and sta ng.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Our library sta can assist you with a variety of tasks –– using a tablet or smartphone, navigating the internet, setting up an email account, and more. Call us or email heath-
A publication of
Call first: 1630 Miner St., Idaho Springs, CO 80452
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Phone: 303-566-4100
Web: ClearCreekCourant.com To subscribe call 303-566-4100
LINDA SHAPLEY
Director of Editorial & Audience
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Deadline
Tues. for the following week’s paper.
Clear Creek Courant (USPS 52610)
A legal newspaper of general circulation in Idaho Springs, Colorado, the Clear Creek Courant is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media, 1630 Miner St., Idaho Springs, CO 80452. PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID AT Idaho Springs and additional mailing o ces.
POSTMASTER: Send address change to: Clear Creek Courant, 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225, Englewood, CO 80110
I-70 Floyd Hill
Starting late September/early October, motorists should anticipate several hundred traffic holds for rock scaling and blasting through 2026.
Stay Informed During Construction
Text floydhill to 21000 to sign up for text alerts
Project hotline:
720-994-2368 (720-994-CDOT)
Rock Scaling Impacts:
• Begins late September/early October and lasts two months.
• Westbound I-70 traffic held east of Hidden Valley (Exit 243), eastbound I-70 traffic held west of Veterans Memorial Tunnels.
• Expect up to six traffic holds per day, Mondays - Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., every 60 to 75 minutes.
• Plan for up to 45-minute delays.
Web: codot.gov/projects/i70floydhill
Email address: cdot_floydhillproject@state.co.us
Rock Blasting Impacts:
• Begins late-2024 and lasts through 2026.
• Westbound I-70 traffic held at Homestead Road (Exit 247), eastbound I-70 traffic will be held west of Veterans Memorial Tunnels.
• Traffic held on Central City Parkway, County Road 314 and the US 6 on-ramp to westbound I-70.
• Expect traffic holds Mondays - Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon, once per day and up to three times per week.
• Plan for up to 45-minute delays.
Twitter: @ColoradoDOT
Facebook: www.facebook.com/coloradodot
Please stay on I-70 - there will not be a traffic detour in place during these operations. Signing up for Project text alerts is the best way to stay informed on traffic impacts!
Colorado workers have questions about paid family and medical leave.
Here’s what you need to know.
Colorado’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program allows eligible Colorado workers to get up to 12 weeks of paid time off each year.
By Tracy Marshall
(DENVER) – Coloradans no longer have to choose between caring for themselves and paying the bills.
The new Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program gives Colorado workers pay replacement when they need to step away from their jobs to care for themselves or a family member.
It’s a benefit available to almost everyone who earned at least $2,500 in Colorado in roughly the last year – including self-employed and gig workers. Workers in Colorado can now get up to 12 weeks of partial pay replacement per year after certain life events, such as the birth of a child or a serious medical condition.
But many Coloradans don’t know about this new benefit and how to get it. Here’s a quick overview, so you know that when life happens, FAMLI has you covered.
Where did FAMLI come from?
Colorado voters approved FAMLI in 2020. We’re actually the first state in the country to enact paid family and medical leave through a ballot initiative.
How does it work?
Employers and employees in Colorado
have been paying into the FAMLI program since January of 2023. Premiums are set to 0.9% of the employee’s wage, with 0.45% paid by the employer and 0.45% paid by the employee.
Nearly every Colorado employer is required to comply with the FAMLI Act’s requirements – by either participating in the state program or providing a private plan of equal or greater benefit.
Only local governments have the option to vote to opt out of participating in the program. (Employees of opted-out local governments can still participate if they wish; they simply agree to pay the employee portion of the premium for three years.) Federal employers and some railroad employers are fully exempt from the program.
Family and medical leave isn’t new – the national Family and Medical Leave Act, which took effect in 1993, grants 12 weeks of job-protected leave for many. But it’s unpaid leave and excludes many part-time workers, workers at small-sized businesses and those who have worked less than 12 months.
What life events make someone eligible for paid leave?
Colorado’s FAMLI program covers workers who need to temporarily step away from work for the following reasons:
• Bonding with a new child (including adoptions and foster care/kinship care placements)
•Managing a serious health condition
• Caring for a family member with a serious health condition
• Making arrangements because of a military deployment
• Dealing with the immediate needs and impacts from domestic partner violence, sexual assault or stalking.
How much does FAMLI pay?
Employees can receive up to 90% of their wages, based on a sliding scale. So if you make $500 a week, your FAMLI benefit would be $450 a week. Benefits are capped at $1,100 per week.
This cap is proportional to the average weekly wage for Colorado and may increase over time. We have a calculator on our website (famli.colorado.gov) to help families get a rough estimate of both their paycheck deductions and potential benefit payments.
What
if my employer won’t let me go?
Colorado voters made sure that employers can’t fire people just because they need to
take FAMLI leave. The law prohibits employers from interfering with your right to take paid medical leave, and it says they have to keep your information confidential.
Even better, the law includes important job protections that kick in after you’ve worked somewhere for 180 days, or roughly six months. After that, employers are required to reinstate workers on FAMLI leave to the jobs they had before (with some exceptions, such as seasonal work that was scheduled to wind down anyway.)
We’ve got lots of resources on our website to explain exactly how FAMLI job protection works.
What are my next steps?
Supporting Colorado workers who need FAMLI leave is our passion. You can file your claim online, with lots of how-to guides and videos to help you through the process.
For personalized assistance, you can call us any weekday between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. at 1-866-CO-FAMLI (1-866-263-2654).
Tracy Marshall is the Director of the new paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Division at the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE). Tracy has been a Registered Nurse for over 30 years and holds her Bachelors in Nursing from the University of Wales.
FALL COLORS
planation of what takes place every fall is one thing, the technicolor results of the phenomenon are what dazzles visitors every year.
“I love seeing the aspens changing colors like the yellow and the orange. It’s pretty cool mixed in with all the evergreen trees. It’s a pretty cool sight,” Courtney Montgomery of Denver said alongside her husband Alex.
e pair shared a day o from their vocation as youth ministers at the Denver Church of Christ to visit the 10,000 foot mountains in Georgetown.
“It’s just nice and peaceful out here,” Alex Montgomery said. “Yeah, it’s a gem.”
Visitors to the mountains of Guanella Pass witnessed the steady and constant rush of tra c heading into altitude to see the show “free of charge” provided by nature and available to all.
“No place else I’d want to be,” said Colorado native Maureen Blackford with her sister Carol Black.
“ is is a favorite playground, you can’t ask for better nature, wildlife, blue skies,” Black said. “You got such a beautiful palette of greens and yellows and oranges and reds. Not too many states have this array of colors.”
“You gotta get out and enjoy it while you can, you blink and you’ll miss it,” Blackford added.
According to Georgetown o cials, the economic impact of this yearly phenomenon is di cult to quantify but the tra c alone with license plates from California, Texas, New York, Oklahoma and overwhelming Colorado are evident of the tourist dollars owing into the town.
GREEN HOMES TOUR
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Self-Guided Tour 9am–4pm • $15/adult $25/couple
Clear Creek County Library branch to request prints, copies, and faxes — or just come in and use our equipment during our hours of operation!
Notary services are FREE! Please contact your Clear Creek County Library branch to book your appointment.
LITTLE FREE LIBRARIES
Help yourself to free, gently-loved books from our Little Free Libraries at numerous Clear Creek locations. Visit our website to learn more.
Beautiful, Comfortable, Healthy Homes
Electric Vehicle Roundup
3pm–5pm
JUC Parking Lot: 14350 W. 32nd Ave • Golden, CO
Reception & Green Expo 4:30 – 6:30pm at JUC
FREE Appetizers & Local Beverages Live Music! • Renewable Energy & Sustainable Living Exhibits
“I just think they’re just breathtaking every year,” Ogg said. For more information: support@NewEnergyColorado. com
“Real people telling real stories about their path to electrification.” – Mark N.
“There’s simply nothing more inspiring than seeing green homes features in person!” — Angela K.
“The tour gave me a lot of ideas for improving my older home.” — Kelsey Z.
Maureen Blackford and her sister Carol Black at Guanella Pass in Georgetown on Sept. 23.
Vibrant fall colors in Georgetown.
Courtney Montgomery of Denver alongside her husband Alex at Clear Lake in Georgetown. PHOTOS BY CHRIS KOEBERL
It was intriguing to listen to two friends jocularly engage in an exchange about being opinionated. While their back-and-forth was in context of their discussion group, I was hearing it through a philosophical sense. Like what is an opinion? Why have one? When should it be shared? And more.
Someone once asserted that opinions are like personal atulence: Everyone has them and they all stink except one’s own. Of course, that’s an opinion since the assertion hasn’t been — thankfully — empirically tested.
Essentially, an opinion is a person’s interpretation of information. It could be about food, religion, social-political issues and a host of others. Opinion is not about truth, which resides in an elevated place. Instead, opinion is common, pedestrian.
With regard to everyone having an opinion, I’ve learned that’s not necessarily the case. I’ve talked with people who won’t take a stance — express an opinion — about substantive issues, despite them o ering one about the social-political environment in their defense. Ironically, they generally consider themselves to be good citizens. Seriously?
Publicly expressing an opinion is a recent phenomenon. Prior to the Enlightenment, people almost always lived under tyrannies. Whether in state ones like emperors, kings, and caliphs or ecclesiastical ones like popes, bishops, and ayatollahs,
As members of the Clear Creek School District Board of Education tasked with negotiating with the Clear Creek Center for Arts and Education, we would like to explain our recent decision to cease negotiations with CCCAE regarding their potential lease of the 4th oor at Carlson Elementary. is was not a decision we arrived at lightly, given our deep appreciation for the arts and our respect for CCCAE’s vision. e organization has
VOICES
Opinionated
the ruler’s word was law. Other than in the Greek city-states where democracy ourished and Rome where the republican form of government was devised, expressing an opinion could be a dangerous enterprise. It didn’t become safe until the post-Guttenberg (printing press),
post-Reformation era. Even then, expressing an opinion often resulted in unpleasantries, like being excommunicated, burned at the stake, or stretched on a rack by Torquemada, the Spanish Inquisitor.
By the late seventeenth century, most notably in England and the Dutch Republic, it was becoming safer to express an opinion, albeit within certain bounds. It wouldn’t become part of the American ethos, however, until decades later, primarily because of the people we celebrate at anksgiving —the Puritans at Plymouth Rock — who were as tyrannical as the authorities they ed. Recall the Salem Witch Trials. Same story, di erent place.
It’s good we’re periodically reminded about our rights delineated in the Declaration of Independence: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness among them. But it’s also important to be reminded that with rights comes responsibility, especially during elec-
tion season. Like being informed, thoughtfully forming an opinion, and expressing it in a variety of ways, from engaging in constructive debate or intelligent conversation — not a shouting match — to writing a letter to the editor.
Prior to forming and expressing an opinion, it’s good practice to research and build a credible, fact-based case about why you believe such and such so you can explain your positions without embarrassing yourself. Another is to trace your past to understand how and why your point of view evolved to what it is now. e reason is an opinion is not based solely on recently acquired information. It’s an outcome of a lifetime of experiences. e foundation of democracy is an educated, informed, involved citizenry. It’s the reason omas Je erson and crew worked to establish public schools where critical thinking skills could be taught, and the early twentieth-century reformers enacted compulsory attendance laws for children. (Plus, to keep them out of the coal mines and factories.)
You’d think that given the history of tyrannical governance, the current oppressive tyrannies in Russia, Iran, and elsewhere, and our history of courageous individuals, like omas Paine whose “Common Sense” propelled the irteen Colonies toward independence, Americans would value and protect their right to express an opinion. But that’s often not the case anymore. A new form of tyranny has
taken hold over the past decade: Selfenforced silence when it comes to a healthy exchange of ideas in the public square. Many have become fearful of speaking their minds outside their bubble. at’s frightening and dangerous.
Although freely expressing an opinion had an inauspicious beginning in America, it’s become and remains the American way. Our democracy depends on citizens having conversations not just about which team will win the Super Bowl but also about issues like immigration, reproductive and voting rights, and whether we value our democracy so much that we’re willing to put ourselves on the line by voicing our opinions publicly and forthrightly.
Try it. You might ru e a few feathers, but you might also prompt another to reconsider an untenable position. And in the process, maybe make a new friend.
My friends’ back-and-forth was, of course, in context of the standard meaning of opinionated, which means being stridently vocal about one’s point of view. But it made me wonder about which is worse: being opinionated or not speaking one’s mind at all.
When my friends’ exchange waned, I chimed in with, “You know, I wish more people were opinionated.”
But that’s just my opinion.
Jerry Fabyanic is the author of “Sisyphus Wins” and “Food for ought: Essays on Mind and Spirit.” He lives in Georgetown.
Clear Creek Board of Education’s decision on CCCAE
GUEST COLUMN
Kelly Flenniken
Erica Haag
Marcie King
Kerry Ann McHugh
shown incredible passion and dedication to bringing arts programming to our community, and we sincerely commend them for their e orts. However, as a school district, we have the responsibility to carefully evaluate all partnerships to ensure they align with both our scal and op-
erational priorities. After thorough consideration, several key factors led us to the conclusion that the current arrangement is not a responsible t for the district at this time.
1. Financial viability
While CCCAE has ambitious and commendable goals, the organization is still in its early stages and lacks the long-term nancial security that we need to see in a partnership of this
scale. Despite substantial e orts on CCCAE’s part to secure funding, including grants and pre-authorized bond work, there remains a signi cant nancial risk to the district. We must prioritize scal responsibility and protect future boards from potentially unsustainable commitments.
JERRY FABYANIC
Columnist
SCHOOL BOARD
2. Organizational track record
We recognize that the district has previously worked with newer organizations, such as in the case of the Early Childhood Education group. However ECE’s situation was distinct in that it aligned directly with the district’s core educational mission and demonstrated immediate tangible bene ts for a broad range of students. While CCCAE’s mission is one we wholeheartedly support, their focus and scope are more specialized and the scale of the proposed project adds an additional layer of nancial and operational risk. at being said, we fully acknowledge CCCAE’s dedication to their cause and their tireless e orts to bring arts programming to our community. We are con dent that with time and continued work, CCCAE will establish the track record needed to support such a large-scale partnership. However, at this time, that is not a risk we felt we could take as a district.
3. Student safety and facility use
Carlson Elementary is primarily a school, and the safety of our students is always our top priority. After careful review, we found that the shared-use logistics of the building during the school year and summer posed challenges that we could not overlook. e proposed access controls and security measures are not su cient to meet the district’s high standards for student safety at this time.
4. Equity across the district
One of our district’s core values is to ensure that all students have equal access to enrichment opportunities.
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While CCCAE’s proposed programming is exciting, we had concerns about how it would bene t students across the entire district, rather than being overly focused on one geographic area.
5. Fulfillment of our commitments
We have engaged with CCCAE in good faith and met our obligations as outlined in the letter of intent from November 2022. CCCAE has worked diligently and collaboratively with us throughout this process, and we truly value the time and energy they have invested. However, despite their best e orts, we believe this arrangement simply does not align with the district’s long-term needs at this time.
Looking to the Future
Although we are not moving forward with the proposed lease at Carlson Elementary, we remain open to future collaborations with CCCAE and hope to continue supporting their mission in other ways. For instance, the district’s facility rental agreement o ers the opportunity for CCCAE to utilize spaces such as the auditorium at the Middle School/High School for their programs. We will also continue exploring other viable uses for the 4th oor at Carlson, with full transparency to the community.
We want to make it clear that the Clear Creek Board of Education is and always will be a strong supporter of the arts. CCCAE’s vision is a valuable addition to our community, and we look forward to seeing them ourish in the years ahead. We sincerely thank them for their dedication and wish them all the best as they continue to advance their mission.
Kelly Flenniken, Erica Haag, Marcie King, Kerry Ann McHugh
Clear Creek County School Board of Education Members
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.
BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Jace, a four-year-old terrier mix, could barely contain his excitement inside the shop of the Dumb Friends League shelter as his new family stocked up on supplies for him.
Denver residents Eliorah Abramowitz and Azi Hanssen said they came to the shelter looking for an older, but still energetic dog that would be as happy chilling on the couch as playing fetch at the park.
After meeting with a few dogs, Abramowitz and Hanssen said they were drawn to Jace.
“It was just a perfect match,” Abramowitz said.
Similarly for Sandra Brande and her daughter Ashley, who live in Centennial, they quickly fell in love with the wiggly Husky puppy Laika. e Brande family knew they wanted to adopt because they found their Husky Daisy at the shelter two years ago and have loved her presence in the family ever since.
“ ere are so many animals who need loving homes,” Sandra said as Laike squirmed in Ashley’s arms. “It’s so nice to have the liveliness in the house that a pet brings.” at sentiment was echoed by many new pet parents and sta at the Dumb Friends League, an animal shelter with locations in Denver, Castle Rock and Alamosa.
“It’s always hard to say who rescued who,” said volunteer Michelle Schneider, of Highlands Ranch. Jace and Laika are some of the hundreds of lucky pets to nd families through the Dumb Friends League during its month-long Clear the Shelter
campaign, which wrapped up on Sept. 10.
Alyssa Putzer, communications manager for the Dumb Friends League, said 1,161 animals were adopted during the Clear the Shelter count, surpassing the shelter’s original goal of adopting out 1,000 pets across its three locations.
Mary Sarah Fairweather, vice president of operations at the Dumb Friends League, said participating in the Clear the Shelter campaign helps the shelter not only nd homes for pets but also care for more animals.
“Clear the Shelters is an amazing opportunity to showcase the wonderful pets in our care,” she said. “With ongoing challenges like overcrowding in shelters, this event is an essential opportunity for our community to connect with animals that are ready to bring joy and companionship into their lives.”
Even with all of the adoptions in the last month, the Clear the Shelters campaign only accounts for a fraction of the adoptions that Dumb Friends League facilitates year-round. Last year, the shelters brought in over 20,500 animals and are on pace to serve a similar amount this year, Fairweather said.
Dogs, cats and small animals, like guinea pigs and bunnies, come to the shelter as surrenders or strays and 86% are rehomed.
“ ey come to us from the community, owners who can’t keep their pets, and as strays,” Fairweather said.
Most animals stay at the shelter for an average of 10-15 days, heading to new homes as soon as sta can help pair them with the right family. Fairweather said another bene t of the Clear the Shelters campaign is that it helps animals who have been at the shelter longer or require special care get adopted.
Fairweather said the adoption process is like dating with the goal being to nd the “perfect match.”
“It’s really a conversation-based process, so we want to get to know what the families are looking for and we share what each individual animal needs,” she said.
Richard Myers, of Denver, said he volunteers at the shelter because it’s like working in a “bubble of love.”
“ ere’s so much care for the patrons and for the animals,” Myers said. “One of the greatest joys of working here is having someone come in who looks sad, maybe they lost a pet a few months ago, and 45 minutes later, they’re going out the door with a pep in their step and the dog is looking like a newly caught marlin, jumping around so much.”
In order to encourage as many adoptions as possible, Fairweather said the shelter looks to reduce barriers to pet ownership like cost or lack of resources.
All of the dogs and cats that are adopted out are vaccinated and spayed or neutered. e Dumb Friends League also partners with some local veterinarians to waive the cost for the rst visit, as well as Fetch Pet Insurance to provide health care support for furry friends.
Another resource the shelter o ers is a free behavioral helpline to support pet parents through training or care adjustments.
“Our goal is to help pet owners keep their pets at home and out of the shelter,” Fairweather said. “We’re lucky to have such beautiful facilities with a team of volunteers and sta who take incredible care of (the animals), but it’s not a home.”
With the current overcrowding in shelters, Fairweather said it’s more important than ever to adopt animals instead of turning to a breeder.
“It gives pets in the shelter system a second chance,” she said. “Whether you’re looking for a little guinea pig or a giant couch potato dog, there’s somebody for everybody.”
Sandra and Ashley Brande, of Centennial, cuddle their new puppy Laika, who they adopted at the Dumb Friends League shelter. This is the second dog the Brande family has adopted from the shelter.
A mom and her son watch a litter of orange kittens up for adoption at the Dumb Friends League. The shelter served more than 20,500 animals last year.
PHOTOS BY MCKENNA HARFORD
Denver residents Eliorah Abramowitz and Azi Hanssen love on Jace, their newly adopted dog. Abramowitz and Hanssen said shelter sta helped match them with the perfect pup.
12 leaf-peeping hikes to make the most of fall colors while you can
Where hikers find the best foliage in Colorado
BY JOHN RENFROW JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
It is o cially fall, and in Colorado, that’s when the state truly shows o its full array of mountain beauty. Hikers, drivers and mountain bikers can enjoy eye-popping fall foliage without trekking too far from the metro area, but others travel deep into the Centennial State for those eeting red and golden leaves. Many meteorologists feared recent cold and rainy weather would knock o most of the colors, but scores of them survived and are just waiting to be ogled if you know where to go. at’s why we at Colorado Community Media put together a list of some of the most rewarding hiking experiences for autumn sentimentalists.
As weekend adventurers hit the mountains after the work week, trafc is sure to pile up. So if you can, try one of these stunning hikes during the week, or at least get up early to beat the morning weekend crowd.
Here are 12 hikes to show o the state’s best autumn colors. Some may require a bit of a road trip, but most are easy day hikes not far from the metro area. Sometimes, you just have to get out there.
AllTrails.com provides all trail stats listed below. Remember that terms like “easy,” “moderate” and “hard” are subjective and depend on your judgment, experience, stamina and more.
EASY
Raccoon Trail
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
- Location: near Rollinsville
- Type: Loop
- Length: 2.6 miles
- Elevation: 462 feet
- Time to complete: 1:14
- Drive from Denver: 35 miles
Old Dillon Reservoir Trail
Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area
- Location: near Silverthorne
- Type: Loop
- Length: 1.7 miles
- Elevation: 213 feet
- Time to complete: 0:40
- Drive from Denver: 72 miles
Kebler Pass/Irwin Lake
Gunnison National Forest
- Location: near Somerset
- Type: Loop
- Length: 2.2 miles
- Elevation: 98 feet
- Time to complete: 0:44
- Drive from Denver: 196 miles
Lily Pad Lake Trail
Eagles Nest Wilderness
- Location: near Frisco
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 3.3 miles
- Elevation: 403 feet
- Time to complete: 1:21
- Drive from Denver: 71 miles
MODERATE
Silver Dollar Lake and Murray Lake Trail
Arapahoe National Forest
- Location: near Guanella Pass
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 4.2 miles
- Elevation: 1,085 feet
- Time to complete: 2:00
- Drive from Denver: 55 miles
Mason Creek Trail
Staunton State Park
- Location: near Conifer
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 8.4 miles
- Elevation: 1,574 feet
- Time to complete: 4:00
- Drive from Denver: 39 miles
Chief Mountain Trail
Arapahoe National Forest
- Location: near Idaho Springs
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 2.8 miles
- Elevation: 948 feet
- Time to complete: 1:47
- Drive from Denver: 37 miles
Grizzly Gulch Trail
Arapahoe National Forest
- Location: near Silver Plume
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 5.2 miles
- Elevation: 1,131 feet
- Time to complete: 2 hours, 45 minutes
- Drive from Denver: 50 miles
Flash of Gold Trail
Medicine Bow-Routt National Park
- Location: near Steamboat Springs
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 10.5 miles
- Elevation: 1,250 feet
- Time to complete: 4:18
812
Colorado provides endless beautiful areas for driving for those who don’t want to hike to get their fall colors. Here a road swerves through the Mount Evans Wilderness decorated with popping leaves. PHOTO BY HALEY LENA
TRIVIA
1. MOVIES: Which animated lm was the rst to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture?
2. SCIENCE: What is a common name for the Aurora Borealis?
3. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the third U.S. president?
4. GEOGRAPHY: Where are the Maldives (islands) located?
5. MUSIC: Who was the rst woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
6. TELEVISION: What is Dorothy’s job on “ e Golden Girls”?
7. MATH: Which number doesn’t have a Roman numeral equivalent?
8. LITERATURE: In the Harry Potter series of novels, what was Lord Voldemort’s name before he changed it?
9. ANIMAL KINGDOM: Which dog breed doesn’t “bark”?
10. FAMOUS QUOTES: Who wrote the poetic line about fall, “Nature’s rst green is gold”?
Answers
1. “Beauty and the Beast.”
2. Northern Lights.
3. omas Je erson.
4. Indian Ocean.
5. Aretha Franklin.
6. Substitute teacher.
7. Zero.
8. Tom Marvolo Riddle.
9. Basenji.
10. Robert Frost, “Nothing Gold Can Stay.” (c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.
FLASHBACK
1. Which singer released “All Alone Am I”? 2. What was the limbo?
3. Name the singer-songwriter who released “Will It Go Round in Circles.”
4. Which group released “Owner of a Lonely Heart”?
5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “I belong to another whose love has grown cold, but I promised forever to have and to hold.”
Answers
1. Brenda Lee, in 1962. e original song was Greek, written for a Greek lm. Lee’s English language version topped the Billboard chart and stayed there for ve weeks.
2. e limbo was a dance done by bending backward and moving under a horizontal pole without touching it and without touching the ground while the pole was gradually moved lower and lower.
3. Billy Preston in 1973. e song topped the charts in the U.S.
and in Canada but also charted in Australia and South Africa. 4. Yes, in 1983. e song had its beginnings in South Africa when it was recorded on a 4-track tape player.
5. “Please Help Me, I’m Falling,” by Hank Locklin, in 1960. After spending nine months on the country chart, the song showed up near the top of the Hot 100 chart. Several artists have released covers over the years, including the Everly Brothers and John Fogerty.
(c) 2024 King Features Syndicate
CAREERS
CITY OF CENTRAL
Senior Water Treatment Plant Operator.
City of Central FTE Hourly range from $25.03 - $29.41 per hour DOQ/E
Requirements: An equivalent combination of education, certi cations, and experience equivalent to graduation from High School/GED equivalent, and one year of experience in water treatment utilities operations. Must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license with safe driving record. Possession of a valid Class “C” Water Treatment License is required and a valid Class “2” Distribution License is required. Under direct supervision of the Water Department Supervisor, this position performs technical duties related to water treatment and distribution. is position is responsible for water sampling and analysis; pump station operation, maintenance scheduling, reservoir operation, and valve vault inspection; water quality monitoring and reporting and providing customer service. Such a position is also responsible for assisting the Water Department Supervisor with billing issues, water rights accounting, and operation of intake diversions. Position performs duties in a manner consistent with the stated values of the organization. e City provides a comprehensive bene t package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance coverage. 100% of the employee’s premiums are paid by the City and approximately 98% of dependent premiums are paid by the City. Paid vacation and sick leave, 401(a) and 457b employer retirement contributions; een paid holidays annually. City paid Long Term Disability and Life Insurance.
Water Treatment Plant Operator.
City of Central FTE Hourly range from $21.59 - $25.36 per hour DOQ/E
Requirements: An equivalent combination of education, certi cations, and experience equivalent to graduation from High School/GED equivalent, and one year of experience in water treatment utilities operations. Must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license with safe driving record. Possession of valid Class “D” Water Operator License and a valid Class “1” Distribution License are preferred. Under direct supervision of the Water Department Supervisor, this position performs technical duties related to water treatment and distribution. is position is responsible for water sampling and analysis; pump station, reservoir, and valve vault inspection; water quality monitoring, and providing customer service. Such a position performs duties in a manner consistent with the stated values of the organization. e City provides a comprehensive bene t package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance coverage. 100% of the employee’s premiums are paid by the City and approximately 98% of dependent premiums are paid by the City. Paid vacation and sick leave, 401(a) and 457b employer retirement contributions; een paid holidays annually. City paid Long Term Disability and Life Insurance.
Apply now: A detailed job description can be found on the City’s website https://centralcity.colorado.gov/. 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 10/13/2024. EOE.
MARKETPLACE
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SERVICE DIRECTORY
To
Book: 974 Page: 460-477
Original Principal Amount
$326,995.00 Outstanding Principal Balance
$303,340.61
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 of the terms thereof
THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.
LOTS 1 AND 2 BLOCK 1, AND LOT 1, BLOCK 5, BLUE VALLEY ACRES, UNIT 1, COUNTY OF CLEAR CREEK, STATE OF COLORADO, SAID LOTS COMBINED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED FEBRUARY1, 2008 IN BOOK 786 AT PAGE421.
Purported common address: 1531 LITTLE BEAR CREEK RD, IDAHO SPRINGS, CO 80452-9607.
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, 11/21/2024, 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 Publication 9/26/2024
Last Publication 10/24/2024
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: 07/24/2024
Carol Lee, Public Trustee in and for the County of Clear Creek, State of Colorado By: Carol Lee, Public Trustee
The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:
Carly Imbrogno, Esq. #59553
Barrett Frappier & Weisserman, LLP 1391 Speer Boulevard, Suite 700, Denver, CO 80204 (303) 350-3711
Attorney File # 00000010040509
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. CCC945
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: October 24, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant
City and County
to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It May Concern, and more especially to: Henry L Eckard
You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 13 day of November, 2020 the then County Treasurer of the County of Clear Creek, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Kent S Taylor the following described real estate situate in the County of Clear Creek, State of Colorado, to wit:
Tax Lien Sale Certificate of Purchase 2020-01182 Account R016974–Parcel 183920311008 Sub.: BERTHOUD FALLS Block: 11 Lot: 34 AND: Lot: 35 & PT VAC ALLEYWAY 198/242 VAC 600/188 616/374
SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF CLEAR CREEK, STATE OF COLORADO
And Whereas said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Kent S Taylor. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2019. That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Henry L Eckard.
That said Kent S. Taylor, did on the 01 day of August, 2024 the present Lawful Holder of said Tax Lien Certificate of Sale, make a request upon the Treasurer of said County by presenting an Application for a Public Auction of a Certificate of Option for Treasurer’s Deed pursuant to C.R.S. 39-11.5-101 for initiation of the process for a Treasurer’s Deed to said real estate;
Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible Auction date (unless the Auction is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, Colorado, I will sell at Public Auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Lawful Holder, Lawful Holders’ heirs and assigns therein, for the
Public Notices
purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Application for a Public Auction of a Certificate of Option for Treasurer’s Deed, plus fees, expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.
(*Public Auction may be continued per CRS 39-11.5-106)
Assessed value: $ 800.00
First Publication: 09.26.2024
Second Publication: 10.03.2024
Last Publication: 10.10.2024
Published in: Clear Creek Courant
Said property may be redeemed at any time prior to the actual Public Auction.
Witness my hand this 05 day of September, A.D., 2024.
/s/ Carol Lee
Carol Lee, Treasurer Clear Creek County L0926-TD 24-006
Legal Notice No. CCC944
First Publication: September 26, 2024
Last Publication: October 10, 2024
Publisher: Clear Creek Courant
PUBLIC NOTICE
COMMUNITY MEETING FOR CENTRAL-CITY CLEAR CREEK SUPERFUND SITE
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Environmental Protection Agency will be hosting a public meeting on Thursday, October 3 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Gilpin County CourtHouse in Central City to provide an update on the status of the Central City-Clear Creek Superfund Site. The meeting will also provide a forum for community members to ask questions about the Site.
There are several ways to participate:
● Join community members in-person at the Gilpin County Court House (203 Eureka St, Central City, CO 80427).
● Join via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82749556178?pwd= kgnM6kJmIyjRu005LBjp10enEQR 9Dx.1 (password: 480706)
● To participate by phone (no video): 1-719359-4580, pin 88639942552#, password 480706#
General information about the Site and access to resources related to health safety can be found at: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/hm/central-cityclear-creek.
To sign up for email notifications about the Site, including public notices and upcoming public meetings, go to https://cdphe.colorado.gov/hm/sign-up-hmupdates and select “Remediation - Superfund - Clear Creek” at the bottom of the page.
If you have technical issues connecting to Zoom or prefer not to ask your questions publicly, please contact Branden Ingersoll at 720.810.7912 or Branden.Ingersoll@state.co.us.
Legal Notice No. CCC950
October 3, 2024
Clear Creek Courant
Auto $2,198.23 Services
Grainger Inc $21.76 Services
Green to Sheen Studio $13,200.00 Services
Guardian $11,191.79 Benefits Henderson Operations $385.54 Services Herbert Parris MD $27,500.00 Services
Highlands Ranch Law Enforcement $225.00 Services
Historic Happy Cooker Restaurant $412.50 Services
HR Performance Solutions $913.30 Services
Idexx Distribution Inc $283.35 Supplies
IHS Pharmacy $1,916.35 Supplies IRS $278,421.00 Taxes
iWebVisit.com $1,750.00 Services
J J Keller & Associates Inc $614.00 Supplies Jacob Kubie $1,250.00 Services
Jefferson Center For Mental He $33,589.82 Services
JobTarget $1,910.00 Services John Elway Chevrolet $53,214.00 Capital
Johnson Controls Fire Protection LP $2,204.00
ProVest Litigation $4.30 Services
Quest Diagnostics $215.49 Services
RMR $29,693.81 Benefits
Rocky Mountain Water $36.07 Services
Salt Lake Wholesale Sports $1,568.90 Supplies
SCL Physicians $423.00 Services
SEH $23,400.00 Services
Shamrock Foods Co $30,432.78 Supplies
SHR Car Wash Colorado, LLC $414.82 Services
Legal Notice No. CCC959
First Publication: October 3, 2024
Last Publication: October 3, 2024
Publisher: Clear Creek Courant
Public Notice
CITY OF IDAHO SPRINGS
Clear Creek County, Colorado
Ordinance No. 20, Series 2024
AN ORDINANCE ENACTING A NEW SECTION 7-5 OF THE IDAHO SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY CLERK TO REFER LOCAL FCPA COMPLAINTS TO THE COLORADO SECRETARY OF STATE AS AUTHORIZED BY STATE LAW (HB 24-1283)
WHEREAS, the City of Idaho Springs, Colorado (the “City”), is a Colorado statutory municipality, duly organized and existing under the laws of the state of Colorado; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Article 10 of Title 31, C.R.S., the City, acting through its City Council (the “Council”), has adopted local requirements concerning municipal elections, codified as Chapter 7 of the Idaho Springs Municipal Code (“Code”); and
WHEREAS, during its last regular legislative session, the Colorado legislature adopted a Bill, subsequently signed into law by the Governor, authorizing the city clerks of statutory municipalities to refer the processing and enforcement of local Fair Campaign Practices Act (“FCPA”) complaints to the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office when the statutory municipality does not have a local campaign finance complaint and hearing process; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds that the City does not have a local campaign finance complaint and hearing process; and
WHEREAS, the Council finds that the work load of the City Clerk’s office is currently at or above capacity and that requiring the staff of such office to conduct FCPA quasi-judicial hearings could overburden and unnecessarily tax such staff; and
WHEREAS, the Council further finds that the Secretary of State’s Office is more experienced and learned in the process of conducting hearings on FCPA complaints than the City Clerk’s Office; and
WHEREAS, the Council therefore finds that it is beneficial to all involved parties to empower the City Clerk’s Office to refer local FCPA complaints to the state Secretary of State’s Office as permitted by HB 24-1283, as further set forth herein.
within ten (10) business days of receiving the complaint to determine whether: (i) the complaint was timely filed; and (ii) whether the complainant has specifically identified one (1) or more violations of article XXVIII of the state Constitution, the FCPA or Rules. Upon completion of the initial review, the City Clerk must take one of the following actions:
(1) If the City Clerk determines that the filed complaint fails to satisfy the requirements of subsection (B) of this Section, the Clerk will dismiss the complaint and notify the complainant and respondent of the reasons for dismissal. The Clerk’s dismissal is a final decision, and subject to review under Rule 106, C.R.C.P.
(2) If the City Clerk determines that the filed complaint satisfies the requirements of subsection (B) of this Section, the City Clerk shall refer the complaint to the Colorado Secretary of State or the Secretary’s designee, in a form and manner determined by the Secretary, within fourteen (14) business days of receiving the complaint.
For all complaints forwarded to the Secretary pursuant to this paragraph (B)(2):
(a) The City Clerk shall notify the complainant of the referral to the Secretary by e-mail or by regular mail if e-mail is unavailable;
(b)The Secretary is authorized to use the provisions of C.R.S. § 1-45-111.7(3) through (7), inclusive, to process, investigate, and resolve the complaint;
(c) The City shall cooperate with the Secretary in the processing and investigation of the complaint; and
(d) The City disclaims any interest in fines collected in association therewith.
Section 3. Should any one or more sections or provisions of this Ordinance or of any Code provision enacted hereby be judicially determined invalid or unenforceable, such judgment shall not affect, impair or invalidate the remaining provisions of this Ordinance or of such Code provision, the intention being that the various sections and provisions are severable.
Section 4. Any and all Ordinances or Codes or parts thereof in conflict or inconsistent herewith are, to the extent of such conflict or inconsistency, hereby repealed; provided, however, that the repeal of any such Ordinance or Code provision or part thereof shall not revive any other section or part of any Ordinance or Code provision heretofore repealed or superseded.
INTRODUCED, READ AND ORDERED PUBLISHED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Idaho Springs, Colorado, held on the 23rd day of September 2024.
Chuck Harmon, Mayor
ATTESTED AND CERTIFIED: Diane Breece, City Clerk
PASSED, ADOPTED AND APPROVED at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Idaho Springs, Colorado, held on the ____ day of _________________, 2024.
Shred-It USA $392.89 Services Springbrook Software LLC $34,282.93 Services State of CO $39,936.00 Taxes State of Colorado $622.23 Supplies Stevinson Chevrolet $1,297.27 Services StopStick, Ltd
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF IDAHO SPRINGS, COLORADO, THAT:
Section 1. The above and foregoing recitals are adopted as specific findings of the City Council.
Supplies
Section 2. Article I of Chapter 7 of the Idaho Springs Municipal Code, concerning elections, is hereby amended by the addition of a new Section 7-5 to read in its entirety as follows:
7-5. Campaign and Political Finance Complaints.
(A) Filed complaint. A complaint alleging that a violation of Article XXVIII of the state Constitution, Article 45 of Title 1, C.R.S. (“FCPA”) or its implementing rules, 8 CCR 1505-6 (“Rules”) has occurred in connection with a municipal campaign finance matter must be filed with the City Clerk no more than ninety (90) days after the date on which the complainant either knew or should have known, by the exercise of reasonable diligence, of the alleged violation. The complainant must file the complaint in writing on the Colorado Secretary of State campaign finance complaint form, including identification of one or more respondents and the information required to be provided on the form, and sign the complaint.
(B) Initial review. The City Clerk shall conduct an initial review of a campaign finance complaint
Chuck Harmon, Mayor
ATTESTED AND CERTIFIED: Diane Breece, City Clerk
Legal Notice No. CCC958
First Publication: October 3, 2024
Last Publication: October 3, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant
Public Notice
CLEAR CREEK COUNTY PUBLIC NOTICE
DUMONT-LAWSON-DOWNIEVILLE (DLD) SUB AREA MASTER PLAN
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clear Creek County Planning Commission will convene a public hearing to consider certification of the Dumont-Lawson-Downieville Sub Area Master Plan at its regularly scheduled meeting on the 16th day of October, 2024 at 6:30 P.M. The public hearing will be held virtually via an online Zoom internet meeting, where and when all parties may appear and be heard. The Zoom meeting link can be found here: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/1307/PlanningCommission-Meeting-Page
FALL HIKING
Drive from Denver: 160 miles
HARD
Kenosha Pass North
Pike National Forest
- Location: near Je erson
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 11.5 miles
- Elevation: 1,666 feet
- Time to complete: 5:00
- Drive from Denver: 66 miles
Oh-Be-Joyful Trail
Gunnison National Forest
- Location: near Crested Butte
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 13 miles
- Elevation: 2,148 feet
- Time to complete: 6:00
- Drive from Denver: 195 miles
Abyss Lake via Abyss Lake Trail #602
Mount Evans Wilderness
- Location: near Guanella Pass
- Type: Out-and-back
- Length: 16.7 miles
- Elevation: 3,379 feet
Public Notices
creekcounty.us For more information call Amy Saxton at (303) 679-4238 or email <asaxton@ clearcreekcounty.us >.
All Planning Commission meetings are subject to change, without further notification. Please contact the Planning Department if this case has been continued or the meeting date and/or time has been changed).
08/26/2024City
Fall colors in Kebler Pass in Gunnison National Forest prove they are worth the road trip.
- Time to complete: 8:19
- Drive from Denver: 63 miles
Honorable Mention
Trail Ridge Road (to drive)
Rocky Mountain National Park
- Location: near Estes Park
- Type: Peak-to-peak drive
- Length: 39 miles
- Elevation: 3,891 feet
- Time to complete: Depends on
tra c and speed
- Drive from Denver: 73 miles
Let’s be real; sometimes you don’t want to move. Take your rig out for a pilgrimage to Rocky Mountain National Park for a beautiful and scenic drive from one mountain peak to the next. e drive to Estes Park is breathtaking and if you’re willing to pay to get into the park, sit back and relax while you cruise through beautiful changing colors and snowcapped mountains.
But beware of tra c and make sure to check the weather, park information and more before making the trip.
Regardless of where you chase the changing leaves this fall, be safe and be on top of the latest forecasts. Get out there before it’s gone!
08/13/2024Timberline
813202404 08/13/2024Timberline Disposal
813202405
08/13/2024McDonald Farms 1,411.50 813202406
08/13/2024Liberty Communications 576.61 813202407
08/13/2024CPS Distributors 160.77 813202408 08/13/2024CPS Distributors 432.78 813202409
08/13/2024Comcast 474.62 813202410
08/13/2024CenturyLink 204.20 813202411
08/13/2024CenturyLink 102.94 813202412 08/13/2024CenturyLink 126.39 813202413
08/13/2024Alsco -
;
of
proposed
has been
in the offices of the Clear Creek County Local History Archives (809 Taos Street, Georgetown, CO), Idaho Springs Public Library (219 14th Avenue, Idaho Springs, CO), and John Tomay Memorial Library (605 6th Street, Georgetown, CO), where the same is open for public inspection; such proposed budget will be discussed at the regular meeting of the Clear Creek County Library Board of Trustees on Tuesday October 15, 2024 to be held in-person at the Old School (809 Taos Street, Georgetown, CO) in the Local History Archives room on the 2nd floor or virtually attend by emailing director@cccld.org for the link by noon the day of the meeting; such proposed budget will be considered at the last 2024 meeting of the Clear Creek County Library Board of Trustees on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at 5:00 PM to be held in-person at the Idaho Springs Public Library or virtually attend by emailing director@cccld.org for the link by noon the day of the meeting. Any interested elector of Clear Creek County may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto by Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 5:00 PM. Legal Notice No. CCC 008
First Publication: October 3, 2024 Last Publication: October 3, 2024
Publisher: Clear Creek Courant ###
PHOTO BY CATHERINE DODGE
Visiting Other Countries This Year Gave Me New Insight on What’s Possible in Society
Tuesday evening Rita and I returned from completing our world tour. It took us from Los Angeles to Hawaii, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, South Africa, Senegal, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, France, England, Sweden, Finland, Poland, Germany, Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, and Canada. From Montreal, we drove through northern New England at peak foliage, before flying home from Boston on Tuesday. In addition to daily lectures by distinguished diplomats and professors, we went on shore excursions in each port, learning how life differs from country to country.
Crime rates, especially gun violence, is so much lower everywhere we visited, because gun ownership is so rare compared to America, where there are more guns than people.
Don’t Miss Saturday’s Green Homes Tour!
In Copenhagen, over 50 percent of workers commute by bicycle, helped by winters which are milder than in Denver. Montreal, however, is recognized as the most bicycle-friendly city in the world, with more separated bike lanes than Amsterdam.
Being a Realtor, I naturally was interested in how people were housed, and, being committed as I am to sustainable living and saving the planet from the ravages of climate change, I paid attention to how sustainable their energy grid is, and how water and waste are handled. As a longtime owner of EVs, I also noted whether the places we visited were more or less on board with the shift to EVs than here at home.
Altogether, Rita and I were away for over five months, with a 3½-month break back in Colorado this summer. I posted my observations every day at http://wherearejimandrita.substack.com.
We were most impressed with the Scandinavian countries — Sweden, Denmark and Norway. As I reported on my blog, every bus and truck in those countries is equipped with an breathalyzer interlock device. The vehicle will not start without the driver proving through that device that he has zero alcohol in his bloodstream. That’s right, not below a legal limit but zero. Passenger cars don’t have such a device, but the penalties for driving with even a low alcohol level are severe. The result is a huge decline in alcohol-related accidents and deaths over the past decades.
Here in America we have photo radar units which generate speeding and red light tickets for drivers, but the tickets do not result in points against your license. In Sweden the secondary roads have photo radar units every few miles, and if you are captured on camera going more than 15 kilometers per hour over the speed limit, your driver’s license can be suspended. (Fortunately, even the rural highways have bus service.) On my blog you’ll find a video showing one of these roadside radar units. Here’s a screenshot from it:
As far as we could tell, homelessness was not a significant problem anywhere we visited, unlike in America. In Sweden and Norway, most middle-class people live in the city but have a summer cottage, so statistically there is more than one home per family overall.
Single-family homes are much rarer in these other countries. Most people either rent or own an apartment in a multi-family structure. In Montreal we were shown the six-family homes constructed following World War II to house returning soldiers. In America, the post-war pattern was set by Levittown: subdivisions of one-story homes, typically with a garage, made possible, of course, by all the empty land here.
Levittown is also famous for not selling to black soldiers, which brings up another observation. In one of the lectures we attended about why Scandinavians regularly ranked as the happiest people in the world, it was pointed out that those countries have no history of serfdom or indentured servants, as one of the reasons. There’s less ingrained fear among populations.
Regarding EVs, there was a vast disparity in the adoption rate of electric vehicles from country to country. In Norway, effective Jan. 1 of this year, every taxicab had to be an EV, and in Bergen all city buses and most tourist buses are electric. In Montreal, the EV adoption rate is similar to here, but the trucks and buses are all diesel and the street noise level is unpleasantly high.
I encourage you to check out my blog for other insights.
Now is the best time to create a more sustainable home. The benefits are huge, and the savings are tempting. But how do you start? The easy first step is to experience the annual Metro Denver Green Homes Tour, of which Golden Real Estate is a co-sponsor.
Join the self guided tour from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 5th for just $15 per adult or $25 per couple. Follow the maps in the guide book to see some fantastic homes, all at your own pace. Explore creative older home retrofits and exciting new homes. See how your neighbors are enjoying beautiful, comfortable and healthy homes that benefit their communities and take on the changing climate, all while saving significant money over time.
Get some great ideas for your home. The tour features post-Marshall-fire homes rebuilt with unique sustainable and energy efficient designs; a Washington Park 1920s Craftsman-style green remodel; a 1950s home with a ground-source heat pump, solar power, and xeriscaping; the latest energyefficient all-electric townhomes; an updated 1979 solar home; and more.
Learn about current government and utility incentives. Learn how to harness free energy with dependable solar power and battery systems that shield you from brownouts and blackouts while dodging expensive utility timeof-use rates. Discover the latest heat pump technology; passive solar strategies; induction cooking; effective insulation; electric lawncare equipment; accessory dwelling units; and state-of-the-art construction materials. After the tour, plan to attend the free Reception & Green Expo: 4:30 to 6:30pm at Jefferson Unitarian Church (JUC), 14350 W. 32nd Ave., Golden. Enjoy free appetizers, local beverages and live music. See renewable energy & sustainable living exhibits, a mobile container home unit, and electric bikes. From 3 to 5pm check out the electric cars in our annual EV roundup. Bring your questions. Talk to homeowners and gain from their experiences and advice. Talk to builders and suppliers and learn about the latest techniques, technologies and money saving incentives. You can purchase a ticket at www.NewEnergyColorado.org
1214 Washington
