Weld County man asks for help saving a forgotten graveyard P6
Pearson Park hosts Great Plains Field of Honor through April 20
Volunteers turned Fort Lupton’s Pearson Park into an emotional display of patriotism and a grand thank you to the area’s veterans and first responders.
The annual Great Plains Field of Honor returned to the field for the fifth year, featuring more than 1,000 individually dedicated flags and chances to visit and tell stories.
Former Fort Lupton firefighter Joseph Hogelin had stories to tell about his family, including his uncle Cornelius Gaylord Hogelin who served in the United States Air Force from 1942 to 1944.
“He was shot down over in England, and the only one who knows where his remains are is the almighty,” Joseph said.
The display opened to the public April 17 and culminated in a closing ceremony April 20.
Retired Air Force veteran Bob Warner, who’s been a volunteer for the Field of Honor since it started in 2020, was honored to cut the ribbon display April 17. Warner flew a Boeing C17 Globe Master military transport aircraft.
“I got into the National Defense Executive Reserve for about 10 years after I retired from the Air Force Reserve,” Warner said. “When my reserves unit was deactivated I came back to Colorado and worked for the Civil Air Patrol and FEMA and various organizations until I retired.”
Warner said he was active in the
An Outstanding Women of Weld County is an extraordinary woman who leads by example with confidence, integrity, commitment, and passion. She is an everyday hero, a changemaker who paves the way for others to follow and inspires us to do better. We all know a woman who deserves to be recognized. Nominate her as an acknowledgment of her contributions to our community. Please complete the nomination form before May 15, 2024, by scanning the QR code or by visiting FAWPDV.org.
Air Force for six years and in the reserves for 25 years, from 1959 until 1990. He also owns Warner Ranch in Centennial, which has been in his family for 103 years.
The honors were scheduled to continue April 20 with a keynote presentation by John W. Bell of the Buffalos Soldiers of American West. Bell was set to be joined by the Fort Lupton Fire Department presenting the colors and Colorado Harmony bagpipe player Charlene Michel. A flyover by the Rocky Mountain Renegades was planned as well.
The Buffalo Soldiers of the American West and the Honor Bell Foundation are the 2024 beneficiaries of the Fort Lupton event. These nonprofit organizations have served Colorado Veterans for many years with civic and educational programs, according to officials.
The Fort Lupton Field of Honor is made possible by donations, sponsors, and volunteers to make this day memorable for our heroes.
“We are here for the community; part of our mission is to help whenever possible,” Bell said.
Bell said he joined the Army in 1963 and originally planned on being sent to Vietnam, but was turned down due to his poor eyesight.
“But my father is a soldier, and my cousin was a buffalo solider so I’m carrying on the family tradition by telling the Buffalo Solider story that was being forgotten and doing this for 40 years with the reenactments,” Bell said.
“I’ve done all the research necessary, a lot of writing and, commentary around the country to tell the workflow side of the story,” he said. “It’s is something that we’ve built that we have to do.”
This year, the event expanded with an inaugural motorcycle ride hosted by Yoder Chevrolet and Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club Mile High Chapter.
Over the last 20 years, I have listed many homes on the MLS, and when doing so it’s important to list the energy and water-saving appliances of the home in the MLS. Advertising a “high efficiency washer and dryer” became more and more common.
But now there are three generations of high efficiency that I can think of.
20 years ago, high efficiency meant front-loading. This reduced the amount of water needed compared to the old top-loading washers. New detergents were introduced for them.
Then, unexpectedly, a top-loading machine with no agitator took the title. Who knew that you could clean clothes that way? The washing machine saved water because it sensed the amount of clothes in the machine and adjusted the water use accordingly.
But what about the clothes dryer? Over the years you really could only choose between gas dryers and electric dryers, although I loved to point out the “solar dryer” in the backyard — a clothesline for drying clothes outdoors. Meanwhile, it has always bothered me
how much hot air a dryer exhausts to the outdoors in the dead of winter instead of using that heat inside the house. An analog solution to that is the indoor lint trap. It is filled with water which traps the lint, and the warm air is exhausted into the room. The device is typically used when a vent to the exterior of the house is unavailable, but you might choose to use one because you want to capture the dryer’s heat instead of sending it outdoors. Remember, too, that the air which your home exhausts must be replaced by outside air coming in through cracks, bathroom/kitchen exhaust piping, etc. So you are not only losing that heat in the winter, you are drawing in cold air from outside.
There are multiple solutions to this dilemma. In addition to using the lint trap described above (in which case you’ll want to seal the exhaust pipe to outdoors), you can replace your existing dryer with what’s called a condensing dryer, typically using a heat pump instead of gas or traditional resistancebased electrical heating.
A condensing dryer has the ability to keep the heat within your house through
internal processing. It’s also called a ventless dryer. Google it to learn more and to see where you can buy them (everywhere) and what they cost.
Heat pump dryers use less electricity than conventional dryers because they use an evaporator to remove the moisture and then recycle the warm air so they don't have to heat the ambient air again.
Because a heat pump dryer is ductless, you don’t have to worry about lint buildup in the vent pipe, which could lead to a fire. There are 13,000 household fires caused by clothes dryers every year in the U.S.
Because heat pump dryers are ductless, they can be installed in any room. Perhaps you’d like to have one in your walk-in closet or ensuite bathroom.
A secondary benefit is that because heat pump dryers operate at a lower temperature, your clothes will last longer.
If
You’d be amazed how many older building materials included asbestos. If you disturb asbestos, making it airborne, you endanger the health of yourself, your workers and your children.
Because asbestos doesn’t burn, it was used to wrap pipes and ductwork in older homes, and in other less obvious materials. If your home has popcorn ceilings which you want to remove, you should definitely test for asbestos first.
Asbestos is also present in older adhesives used with vinyl flooring. Older gas fireplaces had inserts made of asbestos. It is also found in older roof shin-
If you want to save space and don’t like stackable washers/dryers, you can buy an all-in-one machine that does both.
TheCoolDown.com offers other suggestions for saving energy and water, and reducing your personal carbon footprint. The single biggest savings is by using cold water unless absolutely necessary.
Also, dryer sheets and fabric softeners, they say, work by adding petroleumbased chemicals to your clothing, which can cause eczema. Dryer balls are a onetime purchase that work better. (We use them.)
We buy detergent in gallon-size plastic jugs, but they suggest buying powder instead since it’s questionable whether that jug, made from petroleum, will be recycled, even if you put it in the your recycling cart.
This article and the one below appeared in last week’s Denver Post column.
gles and siding, in certain Chinese drywall boards, in vermiculite insulation, and in some ceiling tiles.
Although asbestos materials are safe when left alone, disturbing them can be hazardous. See my post of this at http:// RealEstateToday.substack.com for useful links on this topic.
Over the past two decades this column has appeared in the Denver Post, and during that time I’ve written about every conceivable topic related to real estate, You can find and search that archive online at www.JimSmithColumns.com
If you choose one of our broker associates or me to list your home, it will be featured in this weekly ad. But did you know how many newspapers publish this column? It appears every Thursday in all editions of the Denver Post’s YourHub section, plus the following weekly newspapers: Arvada Press, Brighton Standard Blade, Canyon Courier, Castle Pines News-Press, Castle Rock News-Press, Centennial Citizen, Clear Creek Courant, Commerce City Sentinel Express, Denver Herald-Dispatch, Douglas County News Press, Elbert County News, Englewood Herald, Fort Lupton Press, Golden Transcript, Highlands Ranch Herald, Hustler 285,
circulation is over 300,000!
Aims Community College unveiled a new program April 16 for its next semester aimed at students interested in an automotive career.
The new Ford Automotive Student Service Educational Training program – or ASSET – is designed to fill the need for specialized technicians, according to a news release.
Aims Automotive Programs
Chair Larry Baker said he sees the partnership between Aims and Ford as a win-win in the April 16 news release.
“It’s a way for Ford to get more trained technicians in their door,” Baker said. “There’s been a short-
age of automotive technicians, and all manufacturers are struggling to find people. Ford has come up with a pretty neat collaboration with schools.”
The Ford ASSET program is meant to prepare students for a career to work at a Ford or Lincoln dealership. According to officials, it’s the 41st ASSET program in the country and the only one in Colorado.
Students can earn a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree
in the ASSET program. Ford and Aims designed the curriculum, which includes classroom, lab, and hands-on work experience. It’s an eight-week semester at the Aims Automotive & Technology Center in Windsor. Once the classroom study is complete, students enter an eight-week paid internship program at a local Ford dealership, allowing them to earn money while learning.
His goal now, before he passes, is to help save and preserve this historic cemetery.
Bill Knox, 93, grew up in the Vollmar neighborhood in Weld County, just northwest of Fort Lupton.
Knox said his parents had a ranch there, and he went to school with kids who lived in Vollmar and its surrounding areas. They all went to the little Vollmar schoolhouse, which has since been converted into a home, he said.
One thing that always caught his eye was the little cemetery there, the St. Francis Vollmar cemetery. Still living in the area, Knox still thinks about it and visits it often.
“Every time I’d go by it, it bothered me that most of these tombstones are covered with sand up to three feet deep,” Knox said. “I would like to clean that somehow up before I pass away.”
The cemetery is an acre and a quarter with about 35 to 40 people buried there. He said he started to look in on the cemetery five years ago but started to research it two years ago. It’s set between Weld Country Roads 21 and 23 west of Fort Lupton.
Information about the plot is hard
to come by, he said.
“I looked up the deed at the Weld County Assessor’s office. The last time it was deeded was in 1926, and the St. Francis Vollmar Association ran it. I traced it back; it may have been null and void in the 1940s,” Knox said.
Knox has since taken over the deed and the association name at the cemetery.
He’s now looking for people who grew up in the neighborhood – or the descendants of those that did. He asks that anyone who knows about the cemetery and who might have relatives buried or simply someone who has the resources to help him preserve it, to call at 970-372-0759.
“It’s just a shame that the cemetery is neglected,” Knox said.
It’s always been a tough plot, he said. He remembers growing up during the Depression.
“During the Depression, the sand storms practically covered the old cemetery there,” Knox said.
Knox said the cemetery contains
100% Spanish buried plots, and it should be dedicated to uncovering and preserving that history.
“It was all the Spanish people that lived in Vollmar,” Knox said.
The people buried there, he figures, are the ones who helped the community grow by laboring in the sugar beet factory, cleaning beets. The area was a huge supplier to Great Western Sugar’s factory in Brighton. And although the factory remained in operation until 1977, he thinks Vollmar’s association ended in the late 1940s.
Little official history
Knox said he called many people, including Weld County Genealogy, but has yet to learn about the cemetery. Getting information about the plot has been a challenge.
“The records for the cemetery were in the Londeen Mortuary in Fort Lupton, but it burned down years ago, and all records burnt with it,” he said. “They buried most of the people.”
Knox also called the Archdiocese Catholic Church in Denver to see if they had a record of the cemetery, but representatives there said it didn’t be-
Over two years, an ASSET student will earn Ford certifications in eight areas: Steering and Suspension; Electrical Systems; Climate Control; Manual Trans-
long to them.
Dr. Holly Kathryn Norton, Director of the Office of Archaeology & Historic Preservation, State Archaeologist, and deputy State Historic Preservation Officer at History Colorado, said they did not have a record of the cemetery in their database, nor was it listed on popular sites such as Grave Finder.
mission; Automatic Transmission; Brake Systems; Diesel Engine Repair and Performance; and Gasoline Engine Repair and Performance.
Valeska Howton, an Aims graduate in the automotive program, will be the lead instructor for Aims’ ASSET program.
Marilyn Schock, chairwoman of
She lives nearby and plans to visit it and see what she can learn.
“This cemetery is only 30 minutes from my house, so I’ll make a point to get out there and record it, as well as see if we can locate any additional information on it and contact Mr. Knox,” Dr. Norton said.
Patricia Carmody with the Colorado
the Aims Board of Trustees, said the Board approved moving forward with this program in December.
“With our board’s overwhelming approval of the Ford ASSET program, we send a clear message: we are dedicated to providing students with a competitive edge,” said Schock.
Historic Cemetery Association, which provides resources to preserve and protect historic Colorado cemeteries, said Mr. Knox must map and record the graveyard before touching and cleaning it.
“On our site, we list several resources and books on how to preserve cemeteries,” said Carmody.
“Through the Ford ASSET Program, Aims is poised to contribute knowledgeable, proficient, and readily employable talents to the automotive workforce,” said Dr. Leah L. Bornstein, CEO and president of Aims Community College. “Gaining that hands-on experience that makes them industryready, almost from day one.”
A publication of
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Plants and pastries at Mt. Calvary Mt. Calvary Church, 650 So. Park Ave. in Fort Lupton is hosting its annual plant and bake sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 11.
ere will be Mother’s Day baskets, potted plants, annuals, perennials and vegetable plants to purchase. ere will also be baked goods, some single servings to sell as well as popcorn. Proceeds from the sale will bene t the church’s youth group for the national convention.
Community Art Show registration is open
Registration for Fort Lupton’s annual Community Art Show is open and available to local community artists ages 16 and up. Each artist may submit up to two eligible pieces. View submission guidelines and register on the city’s website today: https://www. fortluptonco.gov/971/Annual-Community-Art-Show.
Welcome Wednesday on May 15
Fort Lupton’s Community Development sta will host an open house on the third Wednesday morning of each month to provide residents, businesses, and development professionals the opportunity to meet with sta in a casual setting.
contractors are scammers but some may be.
e City of Fort Lupton does require solicitors to obtain a license before they go out and engage in sales.
More information and the application for a solicitors/peddlers license can be viewed here: https://www.fortluptonco.gov/552/ Mobile-Food-Vending-LicenseSolicitorsPe?fbclid=IwAR2miHGz65HnRzy0zgs-mXikm3bANJ056VP5qgK4WZFBEfAk-T8G-dGrCk
Contact your insurance company and ask about your policy coverage and ling requirements.
Do your research: Find businesses you can trust and preferably local.
Welcome Wednesdays will be held at the Community Development Ofce, 1200 Dexter St., Unit W13, from 7:30- 9 a.m. Participants will have the opportunity to ask general questions and learn about a variety of topics, including Building permits, business resources, water conservation, the city’s planning commission, the Fort Lupton Urban Renewal Authority and historic board and get updates on the city’s Comprehensive Plan and other plan updates.
Volunteers needed
Quali ed Listeners needs volunteers to drive veterans to and from appointments, run errands for veterans who cannot get out, handyman services, help administer veteran and family resource guide inventory in local libraries and veterans to be trained to become quali ed listeners.
Resist high-pressure sales. Some storm chasers use tactics such as the “good deal” you’ll get only if you hire the contractor on the spot.
Blessings in a Bag
Fort Lupton’s Backpack Program helps school children in need with a backpack of healthy food. It’s an allvolunteer program and is in need of volunteers. If interested in volunteering or donating, call 303-718-4440. Mail donations to Blessings in a Bag, 306 Park Ave., Fort Lupton 80621.
Volunteers needed
Quali ed Listeners needs volunteers to drive veterans to and from appointments, run errands for veterans who cannot get out, handyman services, help administer veteran and family resource guide inventory in local libraries and veterans to be trained to become quali ed listeners. Visit quali edlisteners.org/volunteerapp and ll out the form or call 720-600-0860.
11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and ursdays. ere is $3/hour/child for a drop-in, however there is no fee for members with a monthly or annual pass. ere is a one-hour maximum/per day. Call 303-857-4200 for more information.
Fort Lupton senior lunches
Senior lunches are available at noon Mondays at the Fort Lupton Recreation Center, 203 S. Harrison Ave. Sign up by noon the previous ursday. Call 303-857-4200, ext. 6166.
Silver Sneakers
Silver Sneaker Yoga is available three times per week, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 to 9:45 a.m. and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at the Fort Lupton Recreation Center, 203 S. Harrison Ave.
Water aerobics
e city’s water aerobics class meets from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Tuesdays and ursdays at the Fort Lupton Recreation Center, 203 S. Harrison Ave. Call 303-857-4200.
Co ee group
Fort Lupton’s weekly co ee group sessions are at 8 a.m. Wednesdays. Call 303-857-4200.
Free short-term radon test kits
Weld County residents can receive a free radon test kit (one per household, while supplies last). Test kits can be requested online at www.drhomeair. com/weld, according to a statement. Call the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment at (970) 400-2226 or visit: www.weldgov. com/go/radon.
Donation time
Visit quali edlisteners.org/volunteerapp and ll out the form or call 720-600-0860.
Fort Lupton o cials are warning that severe weather and natural disasters attract out-of-town contractors and solicitors. Not all “storm chaser”
e Fort Lupton Food & Clothing Bank is asking for donations of canned fruits and nuts, varieties of dry pasta and pasta dinners, peanut butter and canned meat such as tuna (including the pouches).
Other potential donations could include chicken, Vienna sausages, spam and salmon. e bank also needs personal items, such as toiletries and baby needs.
Drop o donations at the food and clothing bank’s back door, 421 Denver Ave., on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Call 303-857-1096.
Drop-in child care
e Fort Lupton Recreation Center o ers drop-in child care from 9 to
Warm line up and running
Community Reach Center is o ering a warm line (303-280-6602) for those who want to talk to mentalhealth professionals about anxiety, lack of sleep and strained relationships, among other topics. e professionals can facilitate referrals to other programs for assistance.
e line is not for crisis intervention. ose feeling unsafe or suicidal should call Colorado Crisis Services (1-844-493-8255) or text 38255 or visit the Behavioral Urgent Care Center, 2551 W. 84th Ave., Westminster.
Brighton’s community intake location is at 1850 E. Egbert St., on the second oor. It’s open from 8 a.m. to noon Tuesdays.
Thu 4/25
Colorado Rockies vs. San Diego Padres @ 1:10pm / $6-$310 Coors Field, Denver
Adam Cayton-Holland @ 7pm Comedy Works Downtown, 1226 15th St, Denver
Fri 4/26
Potluck (4/26) @ 5pm
Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760
Friday Bingo at Eagle Pointe 4/26 @ 7pm
Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760
Tequila Rock Revolution @ 8pm
Dirty Side Down Band: Dirty Side Down @ Odde's @ 8pm Odde's Music Grill, 9975 Wadsworth Pkwy, Westminster
Sat 4/27
Family Fun Friday- Fabric Art @ 12am Apr 27th - Apr 26th
Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760
Runs With Scissors Races @ 12:01am / $35-$76 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton
Eric Golden @ 7pm
Vfw Post 7945, 10217 Quivas St, Thornton
Imperial Legion @ 7:30pm Trailside Saloon, 10360 Colorado Blvd, Thornton
Mon 4/29
Female Self Defense - Apr @ 11:30pm
Bison Ridge Recreation Center, 13905 E. 112th Avenue, Commerce City. 303-2893760
Tue 4/30
Tuesday Movie Matinee at Eagle Pointe 4/30 @ 7pm
Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760
Wed 5/01
Chair Volleyball (5/1) @ 4pm
Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760
Thu 5/02
Amazing Athletes @ 7pm
May 2nd - May 16th
Bison Ridge Recreation Center, 13905 E. 112th Avenue, Commerce City. 303-2893760
Monthly Bird Walks - April @ 9am / Free
Barr Lake State Park, 13401 Pica‐dilly Rd, Brighton. 303-659-4348 ext. 53
Armory Performing Arts Center, 300 Strong St, Brighton
Monster Jam @ 7pm / $20-$120 Empower Field At Mile High, Denver
Design a Droid and make a Lightsaber @ 1pm
Anythink Brighton, 327 East Bridge Street, Brighton. rbowman @anythinklibraries.org, 303-4053230
Teen Social: Swim Party @ 6:30pm
Bison Ridge Recreation Center, 13905 E. 112th Avenue, Commerce City. 303-2893760
Anavrin's Day Thursday @ Hoffbrau @ 9pm
Hoffbrau, 9110 Wadsworth Pkwy, Westminster
Calendar information is provided by event organiz‐ers. All events are subject to change or cancella‐tion. This publication is not responsible for the ac‐curacy of the information contained in this calendar.
y grandfather was born in a sod house on the Colorado prairie in 1890. A generation before, it had been the domain of bu alo and the Cheyenne, Sioux and other tribes that feasted on them.
He was taken while still very young to the nearest town, Sterling. Cresting a ridge, he glimpsed the South Platte River Valley for the rst time. What did he see, his elders asked? Cows, he guessed, and lots of them. He had no basis for imagining so many trees.
Grandpa somehow found his way to a two-year degree from Colorado A&M, now known as Colorado State University. en he sought adventure. With a buddy, he set out from Fort Collins in 1915 for the world’s fair in San Francisco. ey could have taken a train, I suppose, but they rode motorcycles.
Travel by car, any car, beyond cities was an adventure then. His memoir from many years later talks about dusty, di cult travel across Wyoming, Utah and Nevada on little more than dirt paths. At one point, the so-called highway was so inadequate they rode their motorcycles on the railroad tracks. It took spunk to travel beyond cities in these new gas-powered vehicles.
I wonder whether my grandfather, if he were around today and living in the farm/ranch country of Colorado, would own an electric pickup. People in the early 20th century traveled by coal-powered
trains or were pulled by animals. e transition to internal-combustion engines did not happen overnight. It took time to create the infrastructure.
Colorado today has more than 100,000 registered electric vehicles but hopes to have nearly a million by 2030. is will be necessary for Colorado to meets its decarbonization goals. It will also help us reduce the nasty ozone-soaked air quality that can make breathing more di cult. San Francisco has already proven that higher penetration of EVs can improve air quality. We need the same success along the Front Range.
We’re moving fast in this transition. EVs — including plug-in hybrids – constituted 16.22% of all sales in Colorado during 2023, according to the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. at’s nearly four times the penetration of four years before. A state sales tax credit that went into e ect in July 2023 has put wind into the sales. Tellingly, Tesla had the top-selling models for both passenger cars and light trucks. But in a couple years we should start seeing more diversi ed and lower cost models from the major manufacturers.
Nationally, you can nd many
stories about stumbles of the EV market. e most optimistic cite the more con dent sales of hybrids, as consumers remain leery of going all electric.
Charging infrastructure remains an issue. I hear anecdotally of concerns about maintenance. Too, not every corner has a charging station. Even the fast-chargers take longer than gassing up. Traveling takes some forethought, more deliberate timing of lunch and other breaks.
It’s getting easier all the time, though. e Polis administration recently announced $22 million in grants that will yield 290 new fastcharger ports at 46 di erent sites from Holyoke to Dolores, from Burlington to Silverton, in both our small towns and big cities. As of February, direct-current fast chargers were located within 30 miles of 78% of the state’s geographic areas. I’m sure that my granddad had to do a lot more thinking.
EVs are not the answer everywhere for all purposes. I hear complaints from Wray to Alamosa about the inadequacy of electric trucks to pull heavy loads, whether of hay or of recreational vehicles.
CleanTechnica tells of an experiment. Four electri ed pickups —
the Ford F-150 Lightning, Cybertruck, Rivian R1T, and the Silverado EV each towed a 4,000-pound car between Denver and Grand Junction. ree lost much range. Only the Silverado EV pulled its weight well.
But EVs have this distinct advantage, one I rst heard articulated by the late Randy Udall 15 years ago: Electric motors can convert energy into motion six times more eciently than internal combustion engines.
Hiccups will almost certainly occur on this journey. And some of our existing pickups and cars will be around for decades. e turnover will take time.
If the comparison is not exact, I think about the transition that occurred during my Grandpa Rieke’s time. In 1924, the only way to traverse the Continental Divide in Colorado during winter was by train or on foot. No roads were plowed until 1930 when Berthoud Pass for the rst time became an all-season crossing.
Compared to that transition, this shift in transportation will be very easy, very quick.
Allen Best tracks the energy and water transitions at BigPivots.com.
First responders and veterans
Fort Lupton’s Joseph Hogelin, a third-generation re ghter, was honored with a ag for his 28 years of volunteer service with the Fort Lupton Fire Protection District. But his family had ags all over the eld
“My great grandfather Alfred Emerson, before motorized vehicles, was a reman with the horse and cart team that pulled a hose around Fort Lupton,” Hogelin said. “ en my Dad was reman for 28 years and I was assistant chief and I served as a volunteer re ghter for 28 years. I retired in 2015.”
Hogelin and his wife Connie had dedicated ags for their family members. Joseph dedicated three members of his family. His father Glenn also served the re department from 1939 to 1967, serving as a Lieutenant, Captain, Secretary, and Assistant Chief. He also served on the school board, the re department district board and played the organ at St. William’s Catholic Church. He died in 1972.
“We were in a car accident traveling Poudre Canyon with my dad and my brother-in-law coming back from shing,” Hogelin said. “My dad went o the side of the road and crashed into the river and he drowned. My brother-in-law and I, we don’t know he got out of the car. Nobody knows
except God.”
“My brothers middle name is Gaylord after him. e VFW in Fort Lupton years ago, used to be named the Hogelin Owens Rogers after him.”
Hogelinh’s eodore served in the United States Air Force in 1943 at the time of the Pearl Harbor Harbor attack.
“He was based at Midway Island in the Paci c. ey could see the attack on Pearl Harbor, so they were prepared to ght,” Hogelin said. “He died ten years ago. He was in the Knights of Columbus, a Christian faith men’s organization, and he was of the Catholic faith.”
Hogelin’s wife Connie Jaso Hogelin dedicated a ag to her dad, Mike J. Jaso.
A native of Colorado, he was drafted a 21 and served from 1941 to 1946. He returned to Colorado when the war ended.
“He was deployed to Alaska driving a truck delivering supplies to help build the Alaskan highway,” she said. “ en he was deployed to Europe to guard the Dachau concentration camp after it was liberated. He told us how di cult it was at the concentration camp.”
Overnight guardian
ized.
Ray Targalia, a retired Denver Police o cer for 21 years, has been volunteering at Fort Lupton Field of Honor since 2020. He also volunteers as the guar, staying there overnight at Pearson Park Field of Flags to ensure it is safe and not vandal-
“Ray is one of those quiet volunteers who is very humble and lls such a key role,” said Christy Romano, Fort Lupton events coordinator. “We promise that the honorees are never alone overnight. It shows another volunteer outside of our Fort
Lupton honoring people in such a unique way.”
Targalia said he’s the one who is honored.
“I feel honored to guard these ags and honored that Christy Romano gave me the opportunity,” Targalia said.
Last week, our newsroom released the rst part of our two-week series “How Columbine changed us.” It looks back on the 25 years since the tragic shooting at Columbine High School, where two armed students took the lives of 13 people before ending their own. e narrative often repeated in the media focuses on the killers and victims, but, as we reported in week one, it overlooks Columbine’s journey of re-
covery, resilience and triumph.
In week two, we touch on the issues of safety in “How Columbine changed response.” In the aftermath of Columbine, schools across the country have increased security measures. ese include classroom doors that lock from the inside, single-point entry systems, security cameras, metal detectors, scanners and drills. And, rst responders have changed how they communicate.
Our biggest nding is that the de ning aspect of Columbine is not the shooting, but the response of the community. It is the indomitable spirit that has emerged and evolved at the school and surrounding area since 1999. is spirit is evident in the school’s Day of Service, held every April 20, the anniversary of the shooting. As teacher Mandy Cooke, a survivor of the 1999 incident, puts it, “We have turned that day into some-
thing so positive… making sure that our current students know how to be better humans in the world, instead of this awful, tragic thing that happened to us.” us, inclusive school culture is perhaps the most critical way Columbine changed us.
View the whole project online at coloradocommunitymedia.com/ columbine-at-25.
– Michael de Yoanna and Kristen Fiore, editors
BY HALEY LENA AND SUZIE GLASSMAN
Today, it’s common across the country for children as young as 4 and 5 to participate in active-shooter drills and shelter-in-place lockdowns about as often as they take standardized tests. at includes the Je erson County School District, where Columbine High School resides.
e Columbine of today has classroom doors that lock from the inside and a single-point entry for students, sta and visitors. It’s equipped with many visible and invisible ways to prevent and/or limit the impact of a mass-scale emergency, a kind that had not been on the national radar before the mass shooting.
While many people may believe school security is about physical barriers and policing threats, those working in the building today, including principal Scott Christy and social studies teachers Sam Bowersox and Je Garkow, say safety at Columbine is also about culture. As a result, the sum of those safety measures is far greater than the parts. “Kids can’t learn if they don’t feel safe, and teachers can’t teach if they don’t feel safe. And so it’s everything. It’s incredibly important,” said Christy. “I think Columbine is the safest school in the world. My hope is that sta and students don’t think about what happened 25 years ago. ey see it as they see their school as a home, a place that they’re proud to be a part of, and a place that they know that they’re loved and cared for.”
Still, security has changed since the April 20, 1999 shooting. John McDonald wasn’t at Columbine that day, but like countless others, his life was forever changed by the tragedy. Nine years later, he became the executive director of school safety for the Je erson County School District, including Columbine, and, since moving on, has continued to work to make schools safer. “I hate to say good came out of it,”
said McDonald. “But what came out of (the Columbine shooting) was the commitment to protect kids.”
Before the tragedy, school o cials and security o cers focused on the potential dangers outsiders might in ict on their buildings. Overnight, they had to shift their thinking to consider that students could be threats, too, and how that might impact school safety plans.
Doing so took its toll. Between 1999 and 2008, the school district had multiple executive directors of school safety.
“ e job was di cult,” said McDonald, who held the position for 14 years starting in 2008. “It was overwhelming for people.”
McDonald, who is now the chief operating o cer for the National Council of School Security, was recognized internationally as the architect of the Columbine High School security and emergency management plan.
In April 1999, with no incident command structure in the district, school security consisted of a handful of cameras outside the school and a few school resource o cers. ere was a disconnect with local law enforcement agencies, who were unfamiliar with the insides of the school, critical information that would be useful for saving lives during an incident.
According to a 2018 Federal School Safety Commission report, there was a rush by leaders across the country to add security o cers and speed up response times, among other measures. Security experts also began considering how students, who often hear rsthand about planned attacks or suicidal ideations, might help tip them o . As a result, the Colorado Trust awarded a $375,000 grant to establish the anonymous 24/7 hotline Safe2Tell.
It’s di cult to know precisely how the immediate security changes impacted students. Walking into Columbine in August 1999, Kelley Kellogg said she didn’t focus on the
added security or the changes to the school other than being relieved that the library where the majority of the deaths occurred had been walled o .
Instead, she felt the typical nerves and excitement of any student on their rst day of high school. As a freshman, she hadn’t been there on the day of the shooting, but she knew several classmates who had, including one whose sibling had died.
“Mostly, we didn’t talk about it, even my friend who’d been directly impacted,” said Kellogg. “But I felt incredibly safe. Everyone was super vigilant and protective. Frank DeAngelis (the principal at the time) and all of the teachers took such good care of us, shielded us from the media attention and made us feel loved and cared for.”
A 2021 Students’ Reports of Safety and Security Measures Observed at School published by the National Center for Education Statistics indicated four measures became more prevalent in the ensuing years, from 2009 to 2019.
Students saw an increase in the use of one or more security cameras, a locked entrance or exit door during the day, student identi cation badges and security guards or assigned police o cers.
e sitting Je erson County School District Executive Director for the Department of School Safety, Je Pierson, said that in addition to more alarmed doors, secure classrooms, and vestibules to check identi cation, more information and security is coming with added cameras and security guards.
“I think it sends a message to our kids and our parents that we’ve got an additional set of eyes that are highly trained individuals watching out for and keeping an eye on what’s going on in our buildings,” said Pierson.
Six years ago, McDonald hired Pierson as the district’s director of safe school environments. In this role, he focused on enhancing part-
Columbine High School Principal Scott Christy stands on April 4 outside the Frank DeAngelis Community Safety Center in Wheat Ridge. He spoke to reporters there as part of the Je co Public Schools “media day” in connection with the 25th anniversary of the Columbine shooting.
nerships between schools, district leadership, and the Department of School Safety, seeking to establish a more proactive approach.
Before taking on this role, Pierson was the principal at Standley Lake High School in Westminster and trained in federal and police safety and policing programs. Pierson said having rst responder training and the lens of an educator has helped him break down barriers to how schools should operate.
Far more than the enforced wearing of student IDs and the additional patrol cars posted outside, Kellogg said safety came from a sense of belonging.
“I feel like everyone just kind of tried to get along,” she said. “Because even though this really tragic thing happened, I felt like we were a part of a family. Kids are kids, and stu still happens, but I felt like everyone tried their best to take care of each other.”
After more than 25 years of build-out, Colorado’s Digital Trunked Radio System has made a di erence, first responders say
BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY DGRIGSBY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COMIn the years before the shooting at Columbine High School, Colorado had already started to address challenges within its radio communications system for rst responders. Primarily directed at helping rural and mountainous towns mitigate dead spots in coverage, these e orts were a promising step forward, particularly during wild res, when aid spanned multiple jurisdictions.
But on April 20, 1999, when more than 40 separate agencies descended upon Columbine High School, communication broke down.
As police, re and medical personnel responded to the shootings that took 13 lives, radio frequencies overloaded because so many di erent agencies were all trying to talk at once.
At one point, radios had become so useless that messengers on foot had to relay critical information between agencies, as then-chief of the state Fire Safety Division Kevin Klein told e Denver Post in 2011.
“Go back to Columbine — di erent responding agencies on di erent radio systems that couldn’t talk to each other,” Klein told the Post. “You had paralysis in the initial phase of the incident. We had to use runners to go back and forth to talk about what we’re going to do.”
But a quarter of a century later, many rst responders say that challenges aside, the state’s Digital Trunked Radio System (DTRS) has made a di erence.
Experts describe DTRS as a “system of systems” that connects re, law enforcement, medical, military
Colorado’s interoperable radio communication system for first responders has undergone continuous build-out over the past 25 years since Columbine. More commonly known as the digital trunked radio system (DTRS), this “system of systems” connects firefighters, law enforcement and other responders across a network of radios, both handheld and vehiclemounted. While it has seen its share of problems from inconsistent funding to technology glitches, Larkspur Fire Protection District Fire Capt. Chad Campagnola says he’s confident in the system and in its ability to perform in the event of a largescale emergency.
and federal assets with a network of radios, antennas and specialized software patches to bridge gaps between newer hardware and legacy equipment.
And even school districts can be part of the DTRS system.
“Any agency within the state can go to the system and connect with any other law enforcement or rst responder group that is on the scene of a critical incident,” Jacki Kelley, spokesperson for the Je erson County Sheri ’s O ce, said of the DTRS.
Fire Capt. Chad Campagnola said the Larkspur Fire Protection District has been a part of the state’s DTRS systems since Douglas County transitioned to it in the early 2000s.
Campagnola, who has been with the department since 1992 and styles himself as the “district radio guy,” said that although the DTRS system added more capabilities for his team, the early roll-out was not without frustrations.
As in most jurisdictions, Campagnola cites the standard funding and technology challenges as the most troublesome.
Not only is the radio expensive, but there are also fees for each radio to be on the system and for certain types of software upgrades.
However, with more than two decades of build-out complete, Campagnola says he’s con dent in the system and feels it has evolved into a dependable asset that can help save lives and protect property.
Prior to DTRS, Larkspur had often experienced radio communication di culties due to its local geography and terrain. ings are much better now.
“It’s de nitely an improvement from 24 years ago,” said Campagnola. “It’s also an improvement from two years ago. In our district speci cally, Douglas County has added more (radio) towers in the past ve years and that’s made an impact, especially for responders in the southern part of the county, as it a ects not just re but law enforcement, but roads and bridges, and the Douglas County School District — anyone operating within the DTRS coverage area.”
Nine months after the Columbine massacre, then-Gov. Bill Owens signed an executive order creating the Columbine Review Commission in response to public outcry for answers. e 10-member board, chaired by retired Colorado Supreme Court Justice William H. Erickson, was charged with identifying lessons learned and how those lessons could prevent future tragedies.
e Columbine Review Commission Report was released in May 2001, nearly a year and a half later.
Anger and accusations ensued in the days after the report’s release as parents, school o cials and others demanded answers, saying the 174page report completely “glossed over” the events that led up to the attack and failed to properly investigate police response.
e commission o ered its recommendations but made no requirements for mandatory implementation. e commission was disbanded after its report was released, further infuriating the public.
However, among the commission’s top recommendations was the need to improve communications and, as a byproduct, more coordination among emergency response agencies. It recommended continuing development of the Digital Trunk Radio System.
Speci cally, the Columbine Commission recommended that “agencies in parts of the state not yet within the statewide system receive funds for the purchase of TRP 100 or similar systems, enabling them to be available in the event of a serious catastrophe in any part of the state.”
While much has changed since 1999, improving the rst responder radio system has been di cult in the decades since. e challenge in building out — and sustaining — Colorado’s interoperable communication system seem to be consistent among agencies and falls
into three distinct buckets: funding, planning, and training.
Colorado amply followed up with heavy investment in the DTRS program.
Putting a nger on exactly how much has been invested in Colorado’s DTRS program year-to-date is complicated as multiple sources of funding have been and continue to be employed. A 2016 memo from the Colorado Legislative Council provides an insight into the program’s early nancial history, nearing $250 million at the time.
But piles of money aside, what most didn’t realize is that this project would be far more than just buying new radios and issuing them to rst responders.
Building a statewide interoperable radio system would include the construction of multiple antenna towers — some of them in hard-toget-to mountainous terrain — to bridge growing technology gaps between new and legacy systems. State technology experts would also have to identify and manage radio frequencies, as well as convince jurisdictions to collaborate and share resources.
Legislation to provide interoperable communication funding for schools
In 2011, more than 10 years after the mass shooting, then-Gov. John Hickenlooper signed into law Senate Bill 11-173. e bill addressed the lack of interoperable communications between schools and rst responders during an emergency. It augments the Colorado School Response Framework, created in 2008, to improve school crisis response by clarifying that interoperable communications are included in a school district’s school safety, readiness, and incident management plan.
Senate Bill 18-158 created the School Access for Emergency Response program, which provides schools with grant funding to purchase interoperable communication hardware and software, pay for equipment maintenance and provide training. e goal was to facilitate “seamless communications between existing school communications systems and rst
responder communications systems.”
e state placed the SAFER program within the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and initially funded it with a $5 million transfer from the Department of Public Safety for the 2018-19 scal year. Subsequent years were funded by State Public School Fund transfers through July 1, 2023.
Colorado’s O ce of Information Technology currently oversees the state’s public safety communications network and the DTRS.
But even with millions in local, state and federal dollars invested in the DTRS program, completing — and sustaining — a statewide interoperable radio system still has a few bugs.
While most emergency management and public safety experts say the state’s system has improved dramatically and local governments are more organized and collaborative since the Columbine shooting, there is still work to do.
Other jurisdictions have a similar take.
e Je erson County Sheri ’s O ce — an early adopter of DTRS, joining Douglas County and Arapahoe County in the program in the late 1990s — was among the rst to arrive on the Columbine scene in 1999.
e agency understands, rsthand, what can go wrong when rst responders are unable to communicate. Brad Ingermann, a commander with the Je erson County Sheri ’s O ce Patrol Division, said that while the state’s DTRS still has its challenges, his agency is far better o than it was at the time of the Columbine shooting and now clearly believes it has an interoperable radio system that works.
“While large-scale incidents such as Columbine are far more common than they used to be, they are still very rare compared to events such as wildland res,” he said.
Every day Je rey Garkow frequents the halls of his alma mater. Garkow graduated from Columbine High School in 2006 and now works there as a social studies teacher.
He is one of the rst people to help reshape how the school honors the 13 lives taken on April 20, 1999.
Prior to 2017, the school wouldn’t hold classes on April 20.
“My experience with April 20 on the professional side of things was that it was just a day o ,” Garkow said. “I think that was hard for a lot of people, especially for the sta who were here on April 20, 1999.”
So, in 2016, Garkow said he and other Columbine educators decided to reimagine the day o and launched Day of Service.
“ is, I think, is kind of giving us the chance to control the narrative a little more about what Columbine has been through and what we are now,” he said.
e rst Day of Service was held in 2017. Garkow said about 400 students volunteered to participate. Last year around 1,500 of the school’s 1,700 students participated in the event.
Students, alumni, sta and community members participate in various projects on the Day of Service including volunteering at nursing homes, spending time at animal shelters, cleaning up parks, working with younger students in the district and cleaning up the campus.
In 2019, Gov. Jared Polis signed a proclamation declaring that Colorado will observe a Day of Service and Recommitment on April 20 each year.
Over the years, more alumni have gotten involved with the day and even planned their own versions of the event at other schools or their places of employment.
Frank DeAngelis, former Columbine principal, said people have participated in the Day of Service from beyond the state — even as far
away as Tanzania.
“It’s stu like that that I think is so important,” he said. “Because here’s the thing. ere are kids now that weren’t even born, but there’s certain messages — kindness, saying thank you … How do we make the world a better place?”
Mandy Cooke, a Columbine High School employee and survivor of the shooting, said the Day of Service reects the school’s current attitude of moving forward with hope.
“We have turned that day into something so positive,” she said. “And that is what I am most proud of — is making sure that our current students know how to be better humans in the world, instead of this awful, tragic thing that happened to us.”
For Garkow, the best aspect of Day of Service is the reactions from students who he says have loved participating in the celebration and carry that impact long after they graduate or leave.
“It’s just a really cool thing to hear students talk about that and how much of an impact that made on them and how much they continue to want to do that now,” Garkow said.
Garkow was in fth grade at Governor’s Ranch Elementary School on April 20, 1999. All he really remembers is learning the impact that day had on the community.
Sometimes students ask him about the shooting and Garkow said he is as open as possible with them and does his best to answer their questions.
“ ere is so much misinformation online and on social media or on ReddIt or in news articles about our school and the culture of our school that I think students pick up on,” Garkow said.
Garkow feels protective of his students. He feels they should not have to answer to people who are curious about the school.
“What responsibility do our kids have to own that story when they weren’t even alive during it?” Garkow said. “I think a lot of our kids
Social
have a di erent take on it now because they didn’t experience any of it.”
As a student himself, Garkow didn’t fully comprehend what had happened but did witness how tight-knit the community became.
“I came into the school already as a kid with a lot of pride in seeing what the community did after that and seeing how the community responded,” Garkow said.
He said DeAngelis became the center of that community in many ways.
“I think so much of why we are the community we are today is because of Frank,” Garkow said. “ at guy absolutely gave up everything for himself to take care of the community and made sure every kid felt valued and welcomed.”
Garkow said DeAngelis later hired him to teach at the school. He worked with DeAngelis for a few years before DeAngelis retired.
“I absolutely love being in the school,” Garkow said. “ ere’s 20plus alumni who I think work in the building and I think that speaks a
lot to the strength of the community (and) how much the school means to people.”
Garkow said the community of the school feels almost like a family.
“I think it’s rare to work in a place where so many of the people you were with are just dear friends,” Garkow said. “It’s pretty rare that I feel like I’m coming here just to work.”
Garkow works with a lot of his own former teachers.
“( ey) are mentors and friends and people who I hope I can model myself after as an educator just because they meant so much to me when I was a student here,” Garkow said.
Garkow said he hopes more stories about where the school is now are told rather than only re ecting on the past.
“ ere is so much tragedy but there have also been so many beautiful moments that’ve come out since, that I think it gives a much better picture of who we are now and where we are as a school,” Garkow said.
As Ingerman points out, wildland res can quickly spread across multiple jurisdictions and require a medley of rst responders and mutual aid partners — all arriving on the scene and many operating on di erent radio systems and channels.
DTRS helps solve this.
It does so by connecting rst responders by the use of pre-coordinated channels assigned to both day-to-day and emergency operations. Speci c talk groups are allocated based on responder function and assignments, freeing up channels and organizing incident information among multiple agencies and partners.
Hardware alone does not create interoperability
the purchase of equipment hardware: things like handheld radios, car radios, repeaters, antennas and tower systems.
Some experts in the eld recall “radio spending sprees” to purchase the 800-MHz radios — quickly spending grant money to avoid getting caught up in product shortages and back-order delays.
Fran Santagata, a retired U.S. Department of Homeland Security regulatory analyst and former Douglas County emergency manager, said the same was true for Colorado.
But interestingly, over the past 25 years, much of the federal dollars made available to states and local jurisdictions initially went toward
McDonald noted that school districts across Colorado struggled to create cohesive security plans until 2008, when state lawmakers passed a law creating the Colorado School Safety Resource Center “to assist schools in preventing, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and crisis situations and to foster positive learning environments.”
“But equipment alone doesn’t create interoperability,” she said. “ ere is a speci c element of coordination and planning required, as well as training. Prociency and comfort in using the equipment are just as important.”
For most jurisdictions, Larkspur included, a signi cant portion of their daily radio tra c occurs over the DTRS, as designed.
emergency channels.
“I think the DTRS got built out, the towers have helped tremendously, and all of the training has helped, but I think we still struggle at every event with the lowest common denominator, which is the individual rst responder only being comfortable using the frequency they use day to day,” she said. “Almost every after-action report usually has a paragraph — or a chapter — on how communications broke down.”
But, as Santagata suggests, many rst responders tend to be more comfortable with their daily comms channels than they are with their
energy at Columbine is relaxed and playful. e school’s 1,668 students walk the halls with ease, chatting with friends and making their way to class.
Additionally, the Standard Response Protocol, created by the I Love You Guys Foundation, was released in 2009 and is now used by countless districts across states. e guidelines made a di erence for the school district because they were an “emergency prepared, not emergency scared program” that everyone understood.
On a bright Tuesday morning, mere days before spring break, the
“I think there’s de nitely truth to that,” said Campagnola. “Dealing with, like, a uni ed command with three agencies where we are, we are very comfortable with our primary work zone or operational zone.”
But Campagnola notes the solution to that is not just the responsibility of the individual radio user.
He said agency leadership also plays an important role in developing good muscle memory for users, looking at the bigger picture and developing relevant training exercises to reinforce those skills.
ey aren’t worried about potential threats or the possibility of something terrible happening. at’s because safety is baked into the very fabric of the school’s culture, and the students know it, explains Columbine SRO Eric Ebling.
Columbine is the only school in Je erson County with two SROs, Ebling and Dan Wonner, who have been there since 2017 and 2019. SRO Joella Gallegos works at one of the feeder middle schools and communicates constantly with Ebling and Wonner. Because of its storied past, Columbine also has more unarmed campus supervisors than others in the Je erson County School District.
recruits in the county’s law enforcement academy and continues with day-to-day use as the recruit enters the force, and with annual exercises that help reinforce radio competency.
“But we are a think-outside-ofthe-box agency,” said Jacki Kelley, spokesperson for the Je erson County Sheri ’s O ce. “We have an initial plan and a backup plan, but as you know, emergencies don’t always go the way you plan or the way you train.”
For the Je erson County Sheri ’s O ce, DTRS training for its personnel begins as early as with new
(Wonner) and me, the sheri ’s o ce or even campus security. If you’re on this property, your job is safety and security.”
Yet, safety doesn’t come only from the number of o cers.
“It’s people. It’s communication, and it’s philosophy,” said Ebling. “It’s not mind-reading technology or drones. e only reason we can make this work every day is with the mindset that everyone’s job is safety and security. Security is not just Dan
But as communities continue to expand and population density increases, more funding will obviously be needed to support and maintain the state’s program.
Overall, most users seem to agree the DTRS system has made a di erence.
Is it perfect?
Not really.
“But I think it’s all good,” said Campagnola. “Like, I have no complaints about anything with our system. We’re continually improving it as a county and as a state, which is allowing for better interoperability.”
Pierson adds that “culture is one of the biggest mitigators.”
“If you have a culture that embeds safety, connections, knowing your student by name, strengths and needs and making sure they have a reporting mechanism for when they hear or see something, those things are easy to implement, and they’re free,” Pierson said.
Columbine sophomore Madison Price sees the school’s security measures but also feels safe because, like Kellogg, who graduated long before her, there’s a sense that everyone in the school is dedicated to taking care of them.
“I do feel safe at school,” Price said. “ ere’s people here to protect us.”
Today, the district’s Department of School Safety, which has over 100 security sta working round the clock, continues to work directly with law enforcement and speak with other districts. It established a group of school safety administrators who meet once a month to discuss hot topics and are also part of a group
that gives feedback to legislators. Part of the culture is balancing the ne line between having too much of a physical environment that creates a prison-like mentality and keeping the physical presence there while maintaining a calm, inclusive and safe atmosphere.
“It has to be completely controlled internally,” said Pierson. “Which means student voices, teachers’ voices, parents’ voices, all those stakeholders have to be completely involved and not just involved but invested in what looks like a safe school environment.”
e measures in place at Columbine are “night and day from what the security measures were back then,” said Pierson. “But our job is to continue to stay up with the times and keep our buildings as safe as they can be.”
e Columbine tragedy forever changed school safety and security measures as we knew them. Yet, the one thing the massacre couldn’t change was the unbreakable spirit of the Columbine community, which continues to embody former principal DeAngelis’ rallying cry: “WE ARE COLUMBINE.”
sponsored by:
Gov. Jared Polis recently announced a collaboration with Google.org and the nonpro t Rewiring America. ey launched a tool to help Coloradans calculate their energy savings, the Colorado Energy E ciency Upgrade Savings Calculator. e tool is funded by a $5 million grant from Google.org.
“With this new tool, Coloradans can easily access discounts on heat pumps, electric vehicles, solar power and more. ese clean energy upgrades save Coloradans money, potentially thousands of dollars, and will help Colorado achieve our climate goals to help future generations,” said Gov. Polis.
e calculator was created to help families calculate their savings from upgrading to a more energy-e cient lifestyle. ose savings come from the many incentives and credits available from federal, state and local sources, according to the governor’s press release announcing the project.
“Tens of thousands of dollars in local, state, utility, and federal incentives make these zero-emission technologies more a ordable and accessible,” said Colorado Energy O ce Executive Director Will Toor. “ is easy-to-use tool will help Coloradans maximize these incentives to pay the lowest possible cost for home energy upgrades, which reduce pollution and save them money on utility costs.”
e calculator was the brainchild of the nonpro t Rewiring America and the Google.org Fellows. Rewiring America is an organization that promotes electrifying communities. According to the governor’s announcement, the Google.org Fellows are a team of engineers, program managers, and other IT experts who work on pro bono projects.
“Collaborating with Rewiring America enabled our Google.org Fellows to support the creation of a cross-country impact by helping American households take advantage of these new electri cation incentives,” said Bhavna Chhabra,
Gov. Jared Polis addressed the audience at the Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC Training Center 2250 Airport Blvd Unit 600, Aurora about the New calculator tool. The project was a collaboration with Google.org, Rewiring America and the state of Colorado. TRUBLU IMAGES
senior director of software engineering and Google’s Boulder o ce lead. “It’s a great example of how advanced technology, like AI, can be leveraged in a bold and responsible way. As a Coloradan, I’m proud that our state is leading on climate solutions at the household level.”
e savings calculator also has language translation capabilities and is designed to be easy to operate. e collaborators hope that the tool helps households reduce their climate impact without economic compromises.
“We’re thrilled to launch this new tool in a state that is truly leading the way on residential electri cation, thanks to Gov. Polis’ leadership and the e ort of so many advocates,” said Ari Matusiak, CEO of Rewiring America. “We look forward to continuing to work in partnership to make these important home upgrades more a ordable and accessible to all. With this calculator, households in Colorado are only a few clicks away from the next steps on their electri cation journey.”
To access the calculator, go to https://homes.rewiringamerica. org/calculator.
Longtime Bluedevils coach honored at state wrestling tournament
BY STEVE SMITH SSMITH@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COMWhen Fort Lupton wrestling coach Tom Galicia graduated from high school in 1978, he thought he’d go to then-Western State University and become a teacher.
Galicia wrestled growing up in school. He also played football and ran track for Fort Lupton High School. When he got to college, he was a walk-on for the WSU football team and wrestled for two years. He also started his family while he was in college.
Back to his roots
Galicia turned his teaching desire into teaching athletes at his alma mater.
e Colorado High School Activities Association took note of that and saluted Galicia’s 30 years as a
wrestling coach during the state wrestling tournament at Ball Arena this winter.
It was the same night that the Bluedevils’ D’mitri Garza-Alarcon and Rylee Balcazar won state championships. He won his fourth straight, and she won her second.
Galicia has also coached girls soccer, football and baseball. He coached the area’s Little League youth wrestling program for 12 years before moving up to the high school program.
“Coach (Duane) Dienes got me into the football program,” Galicia said. “Pino Bachicha (former state wrestling champion at Fort Lupton, founder of the city’s youth wrestling program and a state and national wrestling hall of fame member) got me into the wrestling program,” Galicia said. “I coached my girl’s soccer team. I just found a niche. Everyone told me I had a voice that kids would listen to.” at wasn’t the only reason.
“I wanted to stay involved because of the competition and because of the friendships you make,” he said.
Coaching tree and other changes
Galicia took over the Fort Lupton program from Conrad Parra, who went on to coach at Aurora Central High School. Galicia also was an assistant for former coach Dan Bollinger in the early 2000s.
He adds pieces of other styles to his routine also.
“You apply a learning curve,” Galicia said. “Dan was patient with student athletes. He was a teacher. Conrad was, too. He had a lot of wrestling knowledge, and he used to write things down before practice. We went to camps to learn things. We go to Western State every year. Coach Parra started us on that 22 years ago.”
Fort Lupton has hosted its own summer camp for the past 17 years.
One thing Galicia has noticed in his coaching career is how many more activities are available for teenagers.
“You have to have some balance, and you have to talk to them about what each sport demands in terms of extra time,” he said. “You’re always communicating with them. We go to o -season camps, a couple of tournaments.”
Aside from the camp at Western State, Fort Lupton sends wrestlers to tournaments in California, Virginia Beach, Pueblo and Grand Junction. Fundraising e orts through the program are used to o set the cost for the parents.
“I want to thank the community,” Galicia said. “It’s nice to be in a wrestling community whose support enables us to travel.”
Galicia said those out-of-town
tournaments serve another purpose.
“At these national tournaments, you see that you have to counter a move we use. So, you have to counter that counter. It’s always evolving,” he said. at’s where the sport is. It’s crazy. eir technique is so sound, you’re always trying to copy it.
“Wrestling has changed so much,” Galicia continued. “ e skill level is immense. ey are in clubs for more mat time. ey frequently travel out of town. eir families are dedicated to those tournaments.”
Garza-Alarcon competed in Vietnam during his high school career.
Galicia thinks this year’s seventhand eighth-graders will make contributions to the varsity program. e youngsters won their league title, a tournament at Wellington High School, an All-State championship and a middle-school-based state tournament.
“I get on the mat when I can,” he said. “I enjoy it every time. I always joke that if you’re a freshman or a sophomore, I’ll wrestle with you. But when they get to be juniors and seniors, I can’t handle them.
“I know I was blessed to get into coaching in the Little League and high school levels,” Galicia added. “I feel blessed to be able to continue. I love being around kids all the time. Seeing their success in the classroom and on the eld warms my heart. at’s where you know where you belong.”
Pioneers to face Minnesota at Ball Arena next November
BY JOHN RENFROW JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COMThe University of Denver’s championship hockey program will host the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game for the third time, according to the school’s athletic department.
The Pioneers — who recently won their fifth national title in the last 20 years and 10th overall (an NCAA record) — are set to face the University of Minnesota Thanksgiving weekend at Ball Arena in 2025.
“The University of Denver is honored to host the 2025 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game and excited to rekindle a rivalry between two of the most storied programs in all of college hockey on the heels of Denver’s 10th national championship,” said Josh Berlo, Denver vice chancellor for athletics and Ritchie Center operations, in a press release. “The eyes of the college hockey world will be on Denver and Ball Arena over that holiday weekend.”
It’s a rematch between Denver and Minnesota’s 2004 matchup in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game in St. Paul. Denver lost 5-2.
The two programs are some of the most decorated in all of college hockey. The teams have combined
for 42 Frozen Four appearances, 15 national championships and featured a total of 25 NHL Draft picks on their respective rosters during the 2023-24 season.
DU is 13-3-1 in the last 17 meetings against Minnesota since the start of the 2007-08 campaign and has a 41-39-5 all-time mark against the Gophers in Denver.
The Pioneers have an overall record of 73-94-12 all-time against the Gophers in a series that dates back to Jan. 1, 1951 and are 4-2-1 against their former WCHA foe in seven neutral-site contests.
DU is getting support from its local parent-pro team, the Colorado Avalanche.
“The state of Colorado has a rich tradition of college hockey and
what better way to showcase that than with one the most successful programs in NCAA history, the University of Denver, taking on another powerhouse, the University of Minnesota,” said Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland. “The U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame weekend is always a special event and the Avalanche and Ball Arena are proud to be a part of the festivities.”
Tickets for the game start at $25. Visit denverpioneers.com for information updates on pre-sale and other ticket packages, including premium seating and suites.
The date and time of the 2025 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game will be announced following the NHL schedule release.
120% off is equal to 20% off the total project price. 2Financing offers a no payment - no interest feature (during the “promotional period”) on your purchase at an APR of 17.99%. No finance charges will accrue on your account during the promotional period, as set forth in your Truth in Lending Disclosures, and you will not have to pay a monthly payment until the promotional period has ended. If you repay your purchase in full before the end of the promotional period you will not have to pay any finance charges. You may also prepay your account at any time without penalty. Financing is subject to credit requirements and satisfactory completion of finance documents. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only. Normal late charges apply once the promotional period has ended. Call 866-697-4033 for financing costs and terms. Minimum purchase
The homes will not house sex o enders at least for the next two years
BY MONTE WHALEY MWHALEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COMBesides Northglenn, Westminster and Lakewood are among cities in the metro area that will soon open Mental Health Transitional Living facilities – group homes that drew the ire of Northglenn residents for housing convicted sex o enders.
A MHTL home is currently open in Littleton.
Northglenn protests from residents and local o cials prompted the Department of Human Services to amend their plans for the transi-
tional facilities. DHS dropped the proposal to place sex o enders in the facilities and to allow only residents deemed nonviolent.
No registered sex o enders will be housed at any MHTL homes, at least for the rst two years of the program, said Mark Techmeyer, spokesman for the Colorado Department of Human Services.
“To ensure this program is successful for both communities and clients, we are engaging in a twoyear pilot admissions process, in which the goal will be to admit those individuals who are most likely to safely transition to the MHTL Homes,” Techmeyer said via email. e homes will not admit populations with a lower likelihood of succeeding in the homes, “…Including individuals with a recent history of eloping/escaping from other treat-
ment facilities, individuals with any recent assaultive behaviors, individuals with behaviors that require restraints or seclusions, any behaviors that may require a locked facility, as well as registered sex o enders,” Techmeyer said.
Techmeyer said it is a programwide policy that no sex o enders, even if the program is expanded to include them after this two-year pilot, will be housed within 1,000 feet of a school.
is year there are three homes planned for Colorado Springs, three in Lakewood, two homes in Northglenn, two homes in Denver, two homes in Pueblo West and one home in Westminster. One home is currently open in Littleton.
Techmeyer did not say exactly where the homes will be located. DHS is currently reaching out to the cities involved to “ensure partnership with each community,” he said.
Security has also been posted at the Northglenn facility – located at 11255 and 11275 Grant Drive – as there have been threats and concerning messages aimed at the homes.
“We expect the security needs to decline and don’t expect to have outside security at the homes fulltime,” Techmeyer said.
Contractors working on Adams County projects must provide a fair wage to their employees, according to a new policy adopted April 16.
e Board of County Commissioners approved a Prevailing Wage Policy that requires all Adams County government construction contracts valued at $250,000 or more must adhere to prevailing wage standards.
e policy would guarantee employees working on Adams County projects receive fair wages commensurate with their work, are clas-
si ed correctly, and paid in a timely and accurate manner. e move is part of the county’s commitment to upholding equitable labor practices and supporting its workforce, according to a written statement.
County o fcials met with labor organizations, construction companies and residents to draft the new policy.
Board Chair Emma Pinter expressed her enthusiasm for the policy, saying it re ects the county’s commitment to fair labor practices and ensures individuals working on public projects are justly compensated.
“By ensuring fair wages and proper classi cation, we are investing in the well-being of our workforce and promoting economic stability within our community,” Pinter said in the written statement.
Adams County will rely on wage scales aligned with prevailing wage
statutes used by the state and use software consistent with both state and federal government practices to determine wages that meet the policy.
Commissioner Charles “Chaz” Tedesco said the new policy will bene t workers and enhance the quality and integrity of county construction projects.
“ is is one of many times this board has shown support for our workforce, demonstrating our dedi-
cation to fostering a workplace environment where every individual is valued and respected,” said Tedesco.
e policy goes into practice in September and the county plans an education campaign aimed at training sta and contractors on the new requirements. e campaign will familiarize stakeholders with the new system, which enables the entry of certi ed wage statements on a weekly basis.
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CONTRACTS AND PURCHASES WHEREAS, in accordance with Section 17.7 of the Charter of the City of Brighton, the City Council previously enacted Article 3-8 of the Brighton Municipal Code to address contracts and purchases; and
WHEREAS, the City staff recommends updates to Article 3-8 to clarify the procedures, increase the City Manager’s authority to execute agreements, and create a procedure for the City to suspend or disbar certain individuals or entities from doing business with the City under certain circumstances; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds it is in the best interests of the City of Brighton and its residents to make the following updates to the Brighton Municipal Code to meet the evolving demands of the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF BRIGHTON, COLORADO, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Sections 3-8-30 (a)-(b) are hereby amended as followed:
(a) All materials, services, and construction contracts, except as otherwise provided in this Article, with an estimated cost greater than fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) but equal to or less than five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) shall be awarded through formal solicitation procedure by the City Manager. The City Manager will report regularly to City Council on all contracts awarded by the City Manager over $100,000.
(b) All materials, services, and construction contracts, except as otherwise provided in this Article, with an estimated cost greater than five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) shall be awarded through formal solicitation procedure by the City Council. After due notice inviting bids, purchase orders and contracts shall be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder.
Section 2. Section 3-8-80 is hereby repealed and replaced as follows:
Sec. 3-8-80. – Bid Bond and bid deposit; when required
A bid bond or bid deposit shall be required for all construction projects with an estimated cost of $500,000 or higher. A bid bond or bid deposit may be required, if deemed necessary by the City, for projects other than construction with an estimated cost of $500,000 or higher or for any project with an estimated costs under $500,000. If a bid deposit was required and the bid was not accepted or a bidder is unsuccessful, the bid deposit shall be refunded. All notices of bid award shall be acknowledged by the bidder or his or her personal representative. When a bid is awarded but the successful bidder fails to enter into a contract within ten (10) business days after the date of receipt of notice of award, the deposit may be forfeited.
Section 3. Sections 3-8-110
are hereby
amended as follows:
(8) The ability of the bidder to provide future maintenance and service;
(9) The contents and quality of the response to the invitation for solicitation; or
(10) Whether any person or entity is currently suspended or debarred by the City.
Section 4. Section 3-8-170 is hereby repealed and replaced as follows:
Sec. 3-8-170. – Amendment or change order to contract.
All change orders or amendments shall be processed through the Finance Department. Department directors shall have authority to approve individual amendments or change orders up to the department director’s aggregate signing authority for the total contract price. The City Manager shall have the authority to approve individual amendments or change orders, in the aggregate, up to the City Manager’s signing authority or up to ten percent (10%) of the original contract amount, whichever is higher. All other amendments or change orders shall be approved by the City Council, as appropriate, based on the signing authority established in this Article.
Section 5. Section 3-8-180 is hereby repealed and replaced as follows:
Sec. 3-8-180. - Master price agreements; extension and amendment.
Master price agreements with an annual not to exceed price of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000.00) or less may be approved by the City Manager. Master price agreements with an annual not to exceed price greater than five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000.00) shall be approved by the City Council. After the City Council has approved a master price agreement, the City Manager may approve an annual extension and any amendment thereto, provided the contractor has performed the work satisfactorily, all terms and conditions of the contract have been fulfilled, the funds for said extension and amendment have been appropriated, and the annual not to exceed dollar amount of said extension or amendment has not increased from the original master price agreement.
Section 6. Section 3-8-200 is hereby repealed and replaced as follows:
Section. 3-8-200. – Suspension and debarment
(a) After reasonable notice to the person or entity involved and reasonable opportunity for that person or entity to be heard or to respond, the Director of Finance shall have the authority to suspend or debar a person or entity for cause from consideration for award of contracts. The Director of Finance shall issue a written decision to suspend or debar if that is the action warranted under this section. The decision shall state the reasons for the action taken. A copy of the decision shall be mailed, emailed, or otherwise furnished to the suspended or debarred person or entity. All suspensions and debarments shall be City-wide. The written decision shall provide information about how to appeal to the City Manager.
(b) Suspensions.
(1) Cause for suspension shall be determined within the Director of Finance’s sole discretion, which include, without limitation, the following:
a. Documented breach or default of any City contract.
b. Delinquent accounts, including, but not limited to, utilities and sales tax accounts.
c. Failure to adequately perform after opportu-
nity to cure.
d. Any other cause the Director of Finance determines to be so serious and compelling as to affect the person’s or entity’s responsibility as a potential city contractor, including, but not limited to, suspension or debarment by another governmental entity for cause.
(2) Suspension shall be for a period of not less than six months or more than three years.
(c) Debarment.
(1) Cause for debarment shall include, without limitation, the following:
a. Conviction for commission of a criminal offense as an incident to obtaining or attempting to obtain a public or private contract or subcontract, or in the performance of such contract or subcontract.
b. Conviction under state or federal statutes of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification, or destruction of records, receiving stolen property, or any other offense indicating a lack of business integrity or business honesty which currently, seriously, and directly affects responsibility as a contractor.
c. Conviction under state or federal antitrust statutes arising out of the submission of a bid.
d. More than one suspension by the City as set forth herein.
e. Any other cause the Director of Finance determines to be so serious and compelling as to affect the person’s or entity’s responsibility as a potential city contractor, including, but not limited to, suspension or debarment by another governmental entity for cause.
(2) Debarments shall be for a period of not less than three years or more than ten years.
(d) Appeal Process: Any person or entity that has been suspended or debarred by a decision of the Director of Finance as provided in this Article may appeal the same in accordance with the following:
(1) The appellant may, by written notice, appeal the decision of the Director of Finance to the City Manager. The notice of appeal shall be filed within ten (10) business days of notice of the decision of action of the Director of Finance. The appeal should briefly state the basis of such appeal and include specific information about why the decision should be reconsidered. The City Manager may request further information from either or both the Director of Finance or the Appellant. After receiving any additional information, the City Manager may hold an informal meeting within fifteen(15) business days from the date of the City Manager’s receipt of the appeal or the City Manager may issue a decision based upon the written appeal and any additional documentation received from either party.
(2) The City Manager shall make a decision within twenty (20) business days of the receipt of the notice of appeal. A copy of the decision shall be mailed or otherwise furnished immediately to the suspended or debarred person or entity.
(3) The decision of the City Manager shall be final as to the City.
Section
Notice is hereby given that in the following proceedings filed in the Court under the Uniform Dissolution of Marriage Act, the Court has found that due diligence has been used to obtain personal service of process within the State of Colorado or that efforts to obtain the same would have been to no avail.
Pursuant to C.R.S. 14-10-107(4)(a), one publication of the following shall be published once during the month of April 2023. A copy of the Petition and Summons may be obtained from the Clerk of the Combined Court. Default judgment may be entered against you if you fail to appear or file a response within 35 days of this publication.
Case Number Names of Parties
2024DR196 JESSE DAHL VS ARICA SWIGART
2023DR1509 NOEL WYGANT VS SUSAN PARKER
2024DR30044 YESENIA GUTIERREZ VS JOSE PEREZ CONTRERAS
2023DR31075 MARIA
(the
was
to the
Brighton; and WHEREAS, the Petition requests the annexation of approximately 4.918 acres of contiguous unincorporated territory, situated, lying, and being in the County of Adams, State of Colorado, as more particularly described in EXHIBIT A, attached and shown in EXHIBIT B, attached, hereto (the “Property”), into the City of Brighton; and WHEREAS, Thomas Otten (the “Applicant”),
submitted the Petition, attached hereto as EXHIBIT C, on behalf of the Donald M. Otten Revocable Trust, owner of 100% of the Property (the “Owner”); and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Brighton, Colorado, has reviewed the Petition, as presented by the Applicant, and has determined that the Petition is in substantial compliance with the applicable laws of the State of Colorado and with the City of Brighton’s requirements for a Petition; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to adopt, by resolution, its findings in regard to such Petition and to set a public hearing in regard to such petition.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Brighton, Colorado, as follows:
Section 1. The City Council hereby finds that the Petition, attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference as EXHIBIT C, substantially complies with the applicable requirements of C.R.S. § 31-12-107.
Section 2. The City Council of the City of Brighton, Colorado will hold a public hearing for the purpose of determining if the proposed annexation complies with Colorado Revised Statutes, Sections 31-12-104 and 31-12-105, as amended, at the following time, date, and place:
Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 6:00 p.m.
City Council Chambers
500 South 4th Avenue Brighton, Colorado 80601
Any person may appear at such hearing and present evidence relative to the proposed annexation.
Section 3. Upon completion of the hearing, the City Council of the City of Brighton, Colorado shall set forth, by resolution, its findings of fact and its conclusion based thereon with reference to the eligibility of the proposed annexation, whether the statutory requirements of the proposed annexation have been met, and whether an election for the annexation is required.
Section 4. This Resolution is effective as of the date of its adoption.
RESOLVED this 2nd day of April, 2024.
CITY OF BRIGHTON, COLORADO
By: /s./Gregory Mills, Mayor ATTEST: By: /s./Natalie Hoel, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: By: /s./Yasmina Gibbons, Deputy City Attorney EXHIBIT A
You and each of you are hereby notified that a Sheriff’s Sale of the referenced property is to be conducted by the Civil Division of the Sheriff’s Office of Adams County, Colorado at 9:00 a.m., on the 30th day of May 2024, at 1100 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton, Colorado 80601: phone number 303-655-3272. At which sale, the above-described real property and improvements thereon will be sold to the highest bidder. Plaintiff makes no warranty relating to title, possession, or quiet enjoyment in and to said real property in connection with this sale.
**BIDDERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE CASH OR CERTIFIED FUNDS SUFFICIENT TO COVER THEIR HIGHEST BID AT TIME OF SALE. **
Further, for the purpose of paying off, curing default or redemption, as provided by statute, intent must be directed to or conducted at the above address of the Civil Division of the Sheriff’s Department of Adams County, Colorado.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY. First Publication:
Colorado Attorney General Federal 1300 Broadway, 10th Floor Denver, Colorado 80203 (800) 222-4444
www.coloradoattorneygeneral.gov
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
P.O. Box 4503
Iowa City, Iowa 52244 (855) 411-2372
www.consumerfinance.gov
Further, you are advised that the parties liable thereon, the owner of the property described above, or those with an interest in the subject property, may take appropriate and timely action under Colorado statutes, certain sections of which are attached hereto.
In order to be entitled to take advantage of any rights provided for under Colorado law, you must strictly comply and adhere to the provisions of the law. Further, you are advised that the attached Colorado statutes merely set forth the applicable portions of Colorado statutory law relating to curative and redemption rights; therefore, you should read and review all the applicable statutes and laws in order to determine the requisite procedures and provisions which control your rights in the subject property.
DATED in Colorado this 14th day of February 2024.
Sheriff of Adams County, Colorado
Gene R. Claps By: Kathy Grosshans, Deputy Sheriff
ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF: DAVID ANDERSON LAW, LLC 355 Eastman Park Drive, #200 Windsor, CO 80550
Statutes attached: §§38-37-108, 38-38-103, 3838-104, 38-38-301, 38-38-304, 38-38-305, and 38-38-306, C.R.S., as amended.
Legal Notice No. BSB3077
First Publication: April 4, 2024
Last Publication: May 2, 2024
Publisher: Brighton Standard Blade
seq.
This is to advise you that a Sheriff sale proceeding has been commenced through the office of the undersigned Sheriff pursuant to a Court Order and Decree dated December 19, 2023, and C.R.S. 38-38-101 et seq., by Box Elder Creek Ranch Water Company., the current holder of a lien recorded on April 12, 2022 at Rec. No. 2022000032283, in the records of the Clerk and Recorder of the County of Adams, State of Colorado. The judicial foreclosure is based on a default under the Box Elder Creek Ranch Water Company Amended and Restated Rules and Regulations, effective January 1, 2004. The notice, as recorded, establishes a lien for the benefit of Box Elder Creek Ranch Water Company, WHICH LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN ON THE SUBJECT PROPERTY AND IMPROVEMENTS.
You may have an interest in the real property being affected, or have certain rights or suffer certain liabilities or loss of your interest in the subject property as a result of said foreclosure. You may have the right to redeem the real property or you may have the right to cure a default under the instrument being foreclosed. Any Notice of Intent to Cure must be filed no later than fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the date of the foreclosure sale. A notice of intent to cure filed pursuant to section 38-38-104 shall be filed with the officer at least fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the first scheduled sale date or any date to which the sale is continued.
A notice of intent to redeem filed pursuant to section 38-38-302 shall be filed with the officer no later than eight (8) business days after the sale.
In this regard, you may desire and are advised to consult with your own private attorney.
IF THE BORROWER
THAT A LENDER OR SERVICER HAS VIOLATED THE
Plaintiff(s): CITY OF WESTMINSTER, a Municipal Corporation v.
Defendant(s): BETTY L. DOYLE; FIDELITY HOMESTEAD ASSOCIATES, LLC, and ALEXANDER L. VILLAGRAN or his successors, solely in his official capacity as the ADAMS COUNTY TREASURER and PUBLIC TRUSTEE.
Case No.: 2023CV31217
Attorneys For Plaintiff: ANDERSON NOTARIANNI
The Judgment Debtor has failed to satisfy the amounts due and owing under the abovereferenced judgment.
NOTICE OF SALE
THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
THAT I WILL, at 9:00 AM, on May 30, 2024 at 1100 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton, Colorado 80601, sell the property described above, at public auction to the highest bidder who has submitted bid funds for cash, the said real property described above, and all interest of said Judgment Debtor and the heirs and assigns of said Judgment Debtor therein, for the purpose of paying the judgment amount entered herein, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase as provided by law.
First Publication April 4, 2024
Last Publication May 2, 2024
Newspaper: Brighton Standard Blade Number of Clips: Five
NOTICE OF RIGHTS
YOU MAY HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY BEING FORECLOSED OR HAVE CERTAIN RIGHTS OR SUFFER CERTAIN LIABILITIES PURSUANT TO COLORADO STATUTES AS A RESULT OF SAID FORECLOSURE. YOU MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO REDEEM THE SAID REAL PROPERTY OR YOU MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO CURE A DEFAULT UNDER THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED. A COPY OF SAID STATUTES, AS SUCH STATUTES ARE PRESENTLY CONSTITUTED, WHICH MAY AFFECT YOUR RIGHTS SHALL BE SENT WITH ALL MAILED COPIES OF THIS NOTICE. HOWEVER, YOUR RIGHTS MAY BE DETERMINED BY PREVIOUS STATUTES.
• 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.
All telephone inquiries for information should be directed to the office of the undersigned Sheriff at 303-655-3272.
The name, address and phone number of the attorney representing the Holder/Judgment Creditor: Elizabeth S. Marcus, Esq., 1290 Broadway, Suite 1700, Denver, Colorado 80203 Phone: (303) 458-7117
Said proceeding may result in the loss of property in which you have an interest and may create a personal debt against you. You may wish to seek the advice of your own private attorney concerning your rights in relation to this foreclosure proceeding. THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY
described in that certain Rule, Order, Judgment and Decree (Civil Action No. 90CV1892, Division C) dated the 27th day of August, 1991, and recorded the 13th day of September, 1991 in Book 3816 at Page 220 in the office of the County Clerk and Ex-Officio Register of Deed for the County of Adams, State of Colorado.
Containing 139.50 acres, more or less
The hearing on the petition will be held at the following time and location or at a later date to which the hearing may be continued:
Date: June 25, 2024
Time: 8:00 a.m. Courtroom or Division: 1
Address: 1100 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton, Colorado 80601
Note:
• You must answer the petition on or before the hearing date and time specified above.
• Within the time required for answering the petition, all objections to the petition must be in writing, filed with the court and served on the petitioner and any required filing fee must be paid.
• The hearing shall be limited to the petition, the objections timely filed and the parties answering the petition in a timely manner. If the petition is not answered and no objections are filed, the court may enter a decree without a hearing. Legal Notice No. BSB3107 First
To: Cheyenne Lander Palazzari, Respondent/ parent:
You are hereby notified that the above-named Petitioner has filed in this Court, a verified Petition seeking to adopt the child named above.
The Petition alleges you have abandoned said Child for a period of one year or more and/or have Failed, without cause, to provide reasonable support For said child for one year or more.
You are further notified that said Petition is set for Hearing on May 28, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. in Division T1, Courtroom 305, Adams County Justice Center, 1100 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton, CO 80601.
You are further notified that if you fail to appear For said hearing, the Court may terminate your Parental rights and grant the adoption as sought By the Petitioner.
Dated: April 8, 2024.
Legal Notice No. BSB3102
First Publication: April 18, 2024
Last Publication: May 16, 2024
Publisher: Brighton Standard Blade
Public Notice
STATE OF COLORADO IN THE DISTRICT COURT
COUNTY OF ADAMS Division 24JV30059 No. D1
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO IN THE
Emanuel Lino, Anna Lino A Child(ren), and Concerning
Josephine Arkanjelo, Arabab Hamet, John Doe Respondents:
S U M M O N S
To the parents, guardian, or other respondents named above, GREETINGS: Arabab Hamet, John Doe
You are hereby notified that a verified petition has been filed in the above named Court in which it is represented to the Court that said child are alleged to be dependent and neglected; for the reasons set forth more fully in said petition, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference for greater certainty.
You are further notified that the parent-child legal relationship may be terminated by this action, if prayed for in the petition.
You are further notified that the Court has set said petition for hearing on the 13th day of May, 2024 at the hour of 10:50 am. You are hereby notified to be and appear, at said time, before this Court located at the Adams County Justice Center, 1100 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton, CO 80601. Witness my hand and seal of said Court this 17th day of April, 2024.
Alana Percy Clerk of the District Court
BE
WHEREAS, a petition for annexation of the subject property, legally described in Exhibit “A”, was filed with the City on February 15, 2024. The owners of 100% of the territory, with the exception of any road rights-of-ways, if applicable, is Tricycle Lane Texas LLC, and this territory is not solely a public street or rights-of-ways. The City Council accepted said petition and has found and determined that an election was not required for this annexation under state statute or municipal ordinance or code section and that no additional terms and conditions are to be imposed upon the annexation, other than those expressed in the annexation agreement. The Planning Commission of the City of Fort Lupton, after public hearing on March 28, 2024, has recommended approval of the annexation known as the Ewing Annexation. After a public hearing on April 16, 2024, Council found that the area to be annexed is eligible for annexation pursuant to Section 31-12-104 C.R.S. as to contiguity; and, the area is not affected by any of the limitations that would prevent annexation set forth in Section 31-12-105 C.R.S.
WHEREAS, the annexation agreement between the applicant and the City has been reviewed by City staff and by this Council and is approved and shall be signed by the Mayor.
WHEREAS, the City Council, after public notice and hearing, and consideration of the Planning Commission recommendation, declares that the subject property is hereby annexed conditional to the following:
I. Prior to recording the annexation map:
A. Any redline comments provided by City Staff shall be made to the annexation map.
B. Applicant shall provide written acknowledgement of the comments from the City Engineer.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND PASSED ON FIRST READING, AND ORDERED PUBLISHED this 16th day of April 2024.
PUBLISHED in the Fort Lupton Press the 25th day of April 2024.
FINALLY READ BY TITLE ONLY, PASSED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED BY TITLE ONLY this 7th day of May 2024.
PUBLISHED BY TITLE ONLY the 16th day of May 2024.
EFFECTIVE (after publication) the 15th day of June 2024.
CITY OF FORT LUPTON, COLORADO Zo Hubbard, Mayor
ATTEST: Maricela Peña, City Clerk
Approved as to form: Andy Ausmus, City Attorney
EXHIBIT A LEGAL DESCRIPTION
A PART OF THE SOUTH HALF OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 66 WEST OF THE 6TH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, COUNTY OF WELD, STATE OF COLORADO, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 30, WHENCE THE CENTER QUARTER CORNER THEREOF BEARS S89°18’36”W, A DISTANCE OF 385.20 FEET WITH ALL BEARINGS CONTAINED HEREIN RELATIVE THERETO; THENCE ALONG SAID NORTH LINE N89°18’36”E, A DISTANCE OF 2,155.68 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY NO. 85; THENCE ALONG SAID LINE S00°33’45”E, A DISTANCE OF 1,621.38 FEET; THENCE DEPARTING SAID LINE
S58°17’41”W, A DISTANCE OF 207.66 FEET; THENCE S54°32’32”W, A DISTANCE OF 454.35 FEET; THENCE N89°56’38”W, A DISTANCE OF 405.32 FEET; THENCE S32°38’07”W, A DISTANCE OF 58.11 FEET; THENCE S45°50’31”W, A DISTANCE OF 199.99 FEET; THENCE S59°02’29”W, A DISTANCE OF 114.65 FEET; THENCE S83°51’44”W, A DISTANCE OF 144.55 FEET TO A POINT OF CURVATURE; THENCE ALONG THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE LEFT 72.62 FEET, HAVING A RADIUS OF 48.64 FEET AND A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 85°32’45”; THENCE S01°41’01”E, A DISTANCE OF 302.49 FEET; THENCE S50°00’59”E, A DISTANCE OF 68.91 FEET TO THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 30; THENCE ALONG SAID LINE S89°17’40”W, A DISTANCE OF 482.76 FEET; THENCE DEPARTING SAID LINE N66°44’01”W, A DISTANCE OF 1,701.34 FEET; THENCE N10°55’47”E, A DISTANCE OF 992.00 FEET; THENCE N28°40’47”E, A DISTANCE OF 550.00 FEET; THENCE N68°55’47”E, A DISTANCE OF 416.00 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 30; THENCE ALONG SAID LINE N00°05’52”W, A DISTANCE OF 128.84 FEET; THENCE DEPARTING SAID LINE N63°09’23”E, A DISTANCE OF 172.35 FEET; THENCE N54°31’39”E, A DISTANCE OF 94.45 FEET; THENCE N58°52’35”E, A DISTANCE OF 180.15 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
CONTAINING 155.92 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.
Legal Notice No. FLP1035
First Publication:
ADOPT ORDINANCE 2024-1166 INITIALLY ZONING LAND KNOWN AS THE EWING INITIAL ZONING, LEGALLY DESCRIBED IN EXHIBIT A, TO THE ‘A’ AGRICULTURAL ZONE DISTRICT.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT LUPTON, COLORADO:
WHEREAS, under the procedures detailed in Section 16-9 of the Fort Lupton Municipal Code, the Applicant, Tricycle Lane Texas LLC, submit-
ted a request to initially zone 155.92± acres of land more particularly described in Exhibit A.
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the zone request on March 28, 2024, and recommended approval to City Council of the initial zoning of land described in Exhibit A to the ‘A’ Agricultural Zone District, with all the uses-by-right allowed in said district.
WHEREAS, the City Council, after public notice and hearing, and consideration of the Planning Commission recommendation, declares that the official zoning map be amended to reflect the initial zone on the property described in Exhibit A of this Ordinance to the ‘A’ Agricultural Zone District, and that the Ordinance is hereby approved.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND PASSED ON FIRST READING, AND ORDERED PUBLISHED this 16th day of April 2024.
PUBLISHED in the Fort Lupton Press the 25th day of April 2024.
FINALLY READ BY TITLE ONLY, PASSED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED BY TITLE ONLY this 7th day of May 2024.
PUBLISHED BY TITLE ONLY the 16th day of May 2024.
EFFECTIVE (after publication) the 15th day of June 2024.
CITY OF FORT LUPTON, COLORADO Zo Hubbard, Mayor
ATTEST: Maricela Peña, City Clerk
Approved as to form: Andy Ausmus, City Attorney
EXHIBIT A LEGAL DESCRIPTION
A PART OF THE SOUTH HALF OF SECTION 30, TOWNSHIP 2 NORTH, RANGE 66 WEST OF THE 6TH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, COUNTY OF WELD, STATE OF COLORADO, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE NORTH LINE OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SAID SECTION 30, WHENCE THE CENTER QUARTER CORNER THEREOF BEARS S89°18’36”W, A DISTANCE OF 385.20 FEET WITH ALL BEARINGS CONTAINED HEREIN RELATIVE THERETO; THENCE ALONG SAID NORTH LINE N89°18’36”E, A DISTANCE OF 2,155.68 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF STATE HIGHWAY NO. 85; THENCE ALONG SAID LINE S00°33’45”E, A DISTANCE OF 1,621.38 FEET; THENCE DEPARTING SAID LINE S58°17’41”W, A DISTANCE OF 207.66 FEET; THENCE S54°32’32”W, A DISTANCE OF 454.35
FEET; THENCE N89°56’38”W, A DISTANCE OF 405.32 FEET; THENCE S32°38’07”W, A DISTANCE OF 58.11 FEET; THENCE S45°50’31”W, A DISTANCE OF 199.99 FEET; THENCE S59°02’29”W, A DISTANCE OF 114.65 FEET; THENCE S83°51’44”W, A DISTANCE OF 144.55 FEET TO A POINT OF CURVATURE; THENCE ALONG THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE LEFT
72.62 FEET, HAVING A RADIUS OF 48.64 FEET AND A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 85°32’45”; THENCE S01°41’01”E, A DISTANCE OF 302.49 FEET; THENCE S50°00’59”E, A DISTANCE OF 68.91 FEET TO THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 30; THENCE ALONG SAID LINE S89°17’40”W, A DISTANCE OF 482.76 FEET; THENCE DEPARTING SAID LINE N66°44’01”W, A DISTANCE OF 1,701.34 FEET; THENCE N10°55’47”E, A DISTANCE OF 992.00 FEET; THENCE N28°40’47”E, A DISTANCE OF 550.00 FEET; THENCE N68°55’47”E, A DISTANCE OF 416.00 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 30; THENCE ALONG SAID LINE N00°05’52”W, A DISTANCE OF 128.84 FEET; THENCE
Publicnoticesare acommunity’swindowintothegovernment.Fromzoningregulationstolocalbudgets, governmentshaveusedlocalnewspaperstoinformcitizensofitsactionsasanessentialpartofyourright toknow.Youknowwheretolook,whentolookandwhattolookfortobeinvolvedas acitizen. Local newspapersprovideyouwiththeinformationyouneedtogetinvolved. Withoutpublicnotices,thegovernmentwouldn’thavetosayanythingelse. Noticesaremeanttobenoticed.Readyourpublicnoticesandgetinvolved!
A bill that would have quadrupled the property taxes on many homes offered as short-term rentals in Colorado was rejected in a Colorado Senate committee, marking at least the third time in recent years that such a proposal has failed at the Capitol.
Senate Bill 33 was voted down 6-1 by the Senate Finance Committee during the bill’s first hearing, an outcome that came after months of loud opposition from vacation rental owners and companies like Airbnb and Vrbo.
The only “yes” vote on the measure came from its main sponsor, Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat.
The measure proposed taxing short-term rental properties at the state’s commercial rate if they are
rented to vacationers for more than 90 days a year — regardless of whether they are someone’s primary or secondary home. In 2023, the property tax assessment rate for lodging properties was 27.9% compared with the 6.7% residential property tax assessment rate.
Hansen offered an amendment that would have rewritten the measure to block hotels and motels from being converted into short-term rentals and to study the broader issue. That, too, was rejected by the committee.
Senate Bill 33 seemed to have a better shot at passing than its predecessors because it was drafted by the Legislative Oversight Committee Concerning Tax Policy and Task Force, an interim panel. Measures drafted by interim committees typically pass because of the extra scru-
tiny they receive.
Senate Bill 33 was first introduced in the legislature in January. It’s first committee hearing was continuously delayed as Hansen tried to find a path forward for the measure.
But, ultimately, the opposition proved too great.
Short-term rental property owners, who showed up in force at the Capitol to oppose the bill, said that if the legislation passed they would be forced to sell their homes or reduce their rental nights to avoid the legislation’s 90-day threshold.
“This new bill … unfairly and discriminately singles out STR owners,” Kristine Lee, who owns a short-term rental in Summit County, testified Tuesday night. “You see us as a cash cow.”
Lee said in reality she’s not making much money on her rental property
as nightly rates decrease as demand wanes. She recently had to give up her property manager because she couldn’t afford it.
Proponents of the measure saw it as a way to level the playing field between hotels and vacation home rentals, which are taxed at much lower rates than commercial properties. It would also generate more money for schools and local districts, which are funded by property tax revenue. Some high-country hotels have converted into privately owned short-term rentals in recent years, which proponents contend has reduced local government property tax revenues.
Moreover, some see short-term rentals as a key driver of housing costs and availability in resort towns, which are increasingly unaffordable to Colorado residents.
