Arvada Press June 13, 2024

Arvada set to celebrate 120th Anniversary

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

When a Georgia prospector named Lewis Ralston discovered the gold that would eventually lead to the Colorado Gold Rush, he may not have envisioned that 120 years later, thousands of people would be making their homes in the foothills of what was then an undeveloped frontier.

Yet that was exactly what residents of the area — rst known as Ralston Crossing, now Arvada — did, and now the city has plans to celebrate its 120th Anniversary all summer long.

At certain events this summer, like Taste of Arvada and Arvada On Tap, the city will set up historical exhibits to share the story of how the town came to be. Arvada Days is set for Aug. 24 this year, which

coincidentally marks the 120th Anniversary of the signing of the city’s articles of incorporation.

City Communications Manager Rachael Kuroiwa said that she’s working on nalizing a walking tour that will include research from the Arvada Historical Society and allow folks to experience the past and present at their own convenience.

A historic photo of Grandview Avenue, with the Arvada Water Tower in the distance.

COURTESY CITY OF ARVADA

Arvada gearing up for Pride Month celebrations

The Arvada Library and Apex Center plan familyfriendly celebrations

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

June marks the start of summer for all, and, for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, a chance to celebrate Pride Month — an annual celebration of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community that also commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots.

While the City of Arvada does not have an o cial Pride celebration, the Olde Town Arvada Library and the Apex Center are both hosting family-friendly events to mark the occasion.

Apex hosted its monthly Pride Night at Secrest on June 7, o ering teens in the LGBTQ+ community and their allies an opportunity to create community and utilize the Secrest Recreation Center’s gymnasium, indoor pool and Teen Center. If you missed this month’s Pride

Night, fear not — the next one is scheduled for July 12, followed by another on Aug. 2. Apex has hosted Pride Nights for ve years, with the rst one dating back to March 2019.

“Apex has been able to create a safe space for LGBTQ+ teens in our community, and we are proud to o er Pride Nights once a month at the Apex Secrest Teen Center,” said Je Glenn, executive director of the Apex Park and Recreation District.

Over at the Olde Town Arvada branch of the Je erson County Public Library, a variety of Pride celebrations are happening throughout the month, including Teen Pride Drag Bingo on June 7, a crafts and activities afternoon Pride celebration on June 12 and a presentation on pop music from a queer perspective featuring Patrick Brown, owner of Twist and Shout Records.

Unlike previous years, there will not be a Pride procession through Olde Town led by the library.

e library’s Communications Manager Clara Ouko said there was an emphasis on having events that cater to all di erent age groups this year — the drag bingo is geared towards teens, the crafting afternoon is open to all ages and the music presentation is geared towards

young adults and grown-ups.

“Our programming is segmented by age, so families can introduce the themes of identity and celebrating who we are with age-appropriate activities for kids, safe spaces for teens to share and discover who they are, discover the safe adults in their lives and adults can create community through the common language of music,” Ouko said.

Ouko added that there is programming throughout the county that speci cally caters to teens aged 12-18, all of which can be found on the library’s website. She also said that the library seeks to o er opportunities for young people to explore their identity in a safe, supportive environment.

“Pride is an opportunity to build community and demonstrate safe spaces while centering LGBTQ history, voices, and experiences,” Ouko said. “Many young people are discovering who they are and may be seeking opportunities to safely build a community while exploring their identities. By providing these opportunities, the library becomes a center of learning and connecting for all, especially for those who may be searching for a safe space to be themselves.”

June marks annual Pride Month celebrations across the metro area, including Arvada.

FILE PHOTO

ADVERTISEMENT

Readers

Haven’t Come Up With

My May 16 column, “A Full-Blown Home Insurance Crisis Is Brewing,” invited readers to share their personal experiences and also any suggestions they might have for solving the crisis, which is getting worse by the day.

There has been some good national coverage of the subject in the press and on television news programs. The bottom line is that even places like Colorado which don’t experience as many disasters as the two coasts and the Midwest are subject to increases in insurance premiums due to industry payouts elsewhere.

Solutions

to the Home Insurance Crisis, Just More Horror Stories

billion inflation-adjusted was 10. In 2017, the number hit 19, in 2020 it was 22, and… the number reached a record 28 in 2023. The years 20202023 have been four of the worst five years, with 2017 also in the top five.”

Consumer Federation of America.

According to economist Elliot Eisenberg, “In 2013 and 2014, the number of weather/climate disasters exceeding $1

For

It still runs like new, although it has 102,700 miles on the odometer. I’m letting it go for $20,000. Call me at 303-5251851 for a test drive. You’ll love this car.

A May 13, 2024, article in the New York Times detailed the increasing losses by insurers in all 50 states. That included Colorado, where insurers have lost money is all but three years since 2013. The article quoted Dave Jones of the Climate Risk Initiative at UC Berkeley as saying, “I believe we’re marching toward an uninsurable future.” I have posted a link to that Times article on our blog, at http:// RealEstateToday.substack.com.

There’s a local problem which we’ve seen here in Golden, where our two main ZIP codes (80401 and 80403) cover more foothills areas than they do nonfoothills areas. Those two ZIP codes encompass 184 square miles — bigger than the 64 Zip codes in Denver, including the airport’s 54 square miles!

Some insurance companies are withdrawing not just from individual communities with serious wildfire risks, but from complete ZIP codes containing areas with elevated wildfire risk.

If your home has a mortgage, your lender typically requires insurance, but when there is no mortgage, homeowners can choose not to have insurance, and a growing number of such homeowners are going without coverage — 14% according to a March 2024 report from the

Rules for Buyer Agent Agreements Badly Flawed

Last week the National Association of Realtors (NAR) fleshed out the rules it will enforce regarding the written agreement which a buyer and agent must sign before a buyer can be shown a listing.

On the one hand, NAR says it’s important for the buyer agreement to stress that agent commissions are negotiable, but on the other hand it says that the agreement signed by buyer and agent must spell out a fee/commission that cannot be increased by any source.

In other words, I’m required to have a buyer sign an agreement that they will pay me an acceptable ultimate fee for my efforts on their behalf. But if I agree, say, to a 1% or 2% commission agreement and I help them buy a house from a seller will-

Summer Solstice Party on June 20

If, like me, you support the work of New Energy Colorado, which, among other things, sponsors the annual Green Homes Tour, you’ll want to attend its annual fundraiser on June 20th at Solterra. See www.NewEnergyColorado.org.

Similarly, if you don’t have a loan on your automobile, you can choose not to have collision, comprehensive or theft insurance on your car, and I’m among those who are doing so because of the high cost of those coverages. An article on Forbes.com last week reported that 25% of car owners don’t have collision insurance.

HOAs are being hit especially hard when it comes to master policies. Reader KC Harney wrote me about an HOA in Parker which, following a May 2023 hail claim, raised the premium from $178,000 per year with a $2 million deductible to $337,000 per year with a $4 million deductible. This resulted in a special assessment of $12,000 per HOA member. It should be noted, KC told me, that the May 2023 event cost only $1.9 million to repair, which was less than the $2 million deductible, so the insurance company paid out nothing, yet they raised the premium and the deductible because there was a claim!

Broker associate Chuck Brown told me how insurance costs nearly killed a transaction of his in Evergreen. The buyer was turned down by just about every major insurance carrier before obtaining a policy from Farmers Insurance for $9,000 per year with a $35,000 deductible for fire and hail. The next lowest offer was a $19,000 premium from Highlight.

Colorado Law Passed in 2023 Is But a Limited Solution to Problem

Last May, Governor Polis signed into law HB23-1288, the Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan, commonly known as the FAIR Plan. The 9member board of the Plan is still setting up shop and its vendor won’t issue insurance policies until early 2025. In essence, the FAIR Plan is an insurer of last resort for homeowners and businesses who cannot get coverage from any insurer operating in Colorado.

Every insurer in Colorado must participate in the Plan. The concept is that all Colorado insurance carriers share the expenses, income and losses, ensuring a fair distribution of costs.

The policies issued under the FAIR Plan are not subsidized. The premiums are required to be “actuarially sound.” Coverage is limited to $750,000 for homes and $1 million for businesses, which will result in under-insurance for many clients, so it’s not a perfect fix and doesn’t promise lower insurance rates. It only guarantees that homeowners and businesses will be able to obtain insurance if three firms have denied coverage. I’m troubled by the Plan’s requirement that a homeowner or business be unable to obtain insurance. The homeowners and HOA mentioned above were not denied insurance, just overcharged, meaning they wouldn’t be eligible.

Price Reduced on 3-BR Lakewood Home

$529,000

ing to pay me a much higher co-op commission (because they want their home to sell quickly), I can only accept from the seller the amount in my buyer agreement.

This is madness! What it will do is drive buyers to work only with listing agents, which is not good public policy. Every buyer deserves to have an agent working on his or her behalf.

What’s also being overlooked throughout this months-long discussion of the NAR settlement is that most buyers are hard pressed to come up with their down payment, so how can you expect them to pay thousands in additional dollars for professional representation? They will not get the representation they deserve by working only with the agents representing sellers.

That is why the old system of sellers paying a commission which the listing agent can share with a buyer’s agent is the only and best way of serving both buyers and sellers — but that ship has sailed, unfortunately. It will be interesting to see the chaos resulting from these new rules.

This bi-level home at 11296 W. Kentucky Drive has been well maintained by the seller. It was painted and walkways replaced in 2006, and a new roof & siding were installed in 2017. The garage door was new in 2009. The seller put in a new, energy efficient furnace in 2014 and new acrylic shower & shower doors in 2007. The backyard is mostly flat and completely fenced. There are lilacs on two sides of the house, and an ornamental plum and two purple ash trees are in the backyard. (See photo.) Briarwood Hills is a very quiet, friendly neighborhood. Most of the surrounding homeowners care about their yards, as does this seller. View a narrated video walk-through online at www. GRElistings.com, then call listing agent Jim Swanson at 303-929-2727 to see it.

Jim Smith

Broker/Owner, 303-525-1851

Jim@GoldenRealEstate.com 1214 Washington Ave., Golden 80401

Broker Associates:

JIM SWANSON, 303-929-2727

CHUCK BROWN, 303-885-7855

DAVID DLUGASCH, 303-908-4835

GREG KRAFT, 720-353-1922

AUSTIN POTTORFF, 970-281-9071

KATHY JONKE, 303-990-7428

“Concentrate on giving and the getting will take care of itself.” —Anonymous

Sale: My 2015 Tesla Model S

Arvada Veggie Van finds permanent home at Vance Street Flats

A

ordable produce stand now o ering both walk-in and shuttle service

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In a move aimed at making locally sourced produce more accessible for everyone, the Arvada Veggie Van has opened a brick-and-mortar store in Vance Street Flats, an a ordable housing complex near Olde Town.

e Veggie Van was started in 2017 as an idea to foster the availability of local agriculture in areas determined to be food deserts. e project began as a mobile farm stand that focused primarily on neighborhoods around the Gold Line corridor, according to Shelley Cook, CDOT’s District 2 Commissioner and the organizer of the Veggie Van.

While the Veggie Van moved into its permanent home in April, it still utilizes a customized extra-long golf cart to bring produce to folks who can’t easily get down to the Flats. e mobile farm stand’s schedule can be found on ArvadaVeggieVan.com.

Cook said that the average price of produce sold at the Veggie Van is 53 cents per pound. SNAP cards are accepted at the Van, which cuts the price in half.

e Veggie Van disperses meal kits as opposed to simply hawking produce by itself, which Cook says empowers people to incorporate the veggies into their meals.

“We put together recipe kits,” Cook said. “So, everything you need to make a particular recipe is included. We kind of took a cue from (companies like Blue Apron), and also from research that said that one of the hurdles was knowing what to do with a particular veggie and having access to the added ingredients; the oils or spices or other vegetables that you need to make it.

“We hope to lower that hurdle to eating really well, by putting together the kits and then we price really aggressively,” Cook continued.

Cook said the veggie van is sourced primarily through local farms, in-

cluding Grow Girl Organics located on 80th Avenue and the Arvada Gardeners and CSU Extension Gardeners Program.

e Veggie Van owns the property in the Vance Street Flats, which Cook says will provide stability to the operation and its patrons.

“It’s in a great location; it’s right next to Olde Town,” Cook said. “But on the other hand, it’s also close to a number of neighborhoods that we could tell from the city’s work and JCPH’s work that they were food desert neighborhoods. at was exacerbated by other elements, like, how many kids were on free and reduced lunch or they had a high level of disability or had poor transit connection — I mean, a whole host of things.

“We knew we were close to (those neighborhoods),” Cook continued.

“And we liked the idea of setting up a mobile farm stand to help. We had a dual mission not only getting the food out but supporting new local growers and farmers here in this area.”

is year is the eighth season of the Arvada Veggie Van. More information can be found on the Veggie Van’s website.

The ribbon cutting for the Arvada Veggie Van’s brick and mortar location within Vance Street Flats. PHOTOS COURTESY OF KEPHART

The mobile Veggie Van, which brings fresh produce directly into neighborhoods in need.

As we approach summer, people need to remember that too much UV exposure puts them at greater risk for skin cancer. Coloradans are at an even greater risk — because of our higher altitude, we are closer to the sun. Colorado has the nation’s highest per-capita rate of skin cancer, according to CU Anschutz Medical Campus.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. One type of skin cancer is melanoma and according to the American Cancer Society, there will be more than 100,000 new diagnoses in the U.S. in 2024.

Sun safety for Coloradans

GUEST COLUMN

More than 8,000 people are expected to die of melanoma this year, with nearly 3,000 being women.

Sunlight produces vitamin D, which is essential for bone growth and our immune system. So, how much sunlight is too much? Even a few minutes of unprotected sunlight can cause DNA damage, which adds up over time, increasing your risk of

ABOUT LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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

• Email your letter to kfiore@coloradocommunitymedia.com. Do not send via

postal mail. Put the words “letter to the editor” in the email subject line.

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

skin cancer. Everyone, 6 months and older, should apply sun protection every day, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. e foundation’s studies have shown that regular use of SPF 15 or higher reduces your chance of developing melanoma by 50% and premature skin aging by 24%.

Besides protected sun exposure, your diet and supplements can be great sources of vitamin D. Start incorporating salmon, tuna, egg yolks or vitamin D supplements to achieve a healthy vitamin D level.

Bloodwork can help identify appropriate levels. Here are ranges to evaluate your vitamin D level:

• Below 30: De cient

• 30 to 50: Generally inadequate

• 50+: Adequate

• 125+: Too high

Besides getting vitamin D safely, other sun safety tips include:

• Avoid sunbathing

• Wear protective clothing

• Wear a hat

• Use eyewear with UV protection

• Seek shade

Make sure to check the UV level and be extra cautious when the UV level is 7 or higher. Avoid tanning beds due to their high UV intensity.

newspaper.

• Letters must be no longer than 400 words.

• Letters should be exclusively submitted to Colorado Community Media and

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

Wapos Cantina, Bonfire Burritos moving into Olde Town; Mangiami’s set to reopen

BY RYLEE DUNN

Two new restaurants are planning on opening in Olde Town Arvada, and one is staying put despite a seizure notice.

Wapos Cantina, a Mexican eatery with locations in Erie and ornton, is set to open in the corner suite at the intersection of Ralston Road and Olde Wadsworth Boulevard that previously housed STiX Crafthouse, which closed earlier this year.

Arvada Business Briefs

Across the street at 5800 Olde Wadsworth Blvd. — the former site of an Arby’s — Golden-based Bon re Burritos is set to open its rst Arvada location. Plans for the new Bon re location to move forward are contingent on the city’s approval, according to the burrito company’s lings with the city.

Bon re is proposing remodeling the former Arby’s and turning the adjacent parking area to the west of the building into an outdoor dining area and packet park, according to the project lings.

Editor’s note: e Arvada Press was unable to determine timelines for the Wapos Cantina or Bon re Burritos openings by press time but will continue to provide updated information as soon as it becomes available.

REVERSE MORTGAGES MADE EASY

The exterior of Mangiami’s, which has a seizure notice owners say will be taken care of shortly.

PHOTO BY RYLEE DUNN

Event

brings 230 young fishers together; new this year are separate categories for fish

BY RYLEE DUNN RDUNN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Over 230 young folks came out to Arvada-Blunn Reservoir, which returned for the 24th time to renewed fanfare from the three to 14-year-old participants and their families.

e event was held on June 8, and the early start time of 7 a.m. was not a deterrent to the shers. is year, the event was broken up into two separate categories for sh; one for trout and one for all other species of sh. Prior to this year, there had just been one category.

First, second and third place trophies were awarded for four age categories.

All participants were entered into a ra e to win prizes which included a bicycle, a kayak and other toys.

Ken Billips, the District III Parks Supervisor who runs the event, said the contest seeks to bring the community together around shing.

“ e Kids Fishing Contest is an excellent way to bring families and shing together,” Billips said. “We really just want families to come out and enjoy a nice day at the reservoir. e event is a lot of people’s rst time out here, and we often see them come back several more times throughout the summer because they enjoy it so much.”

Call first: 3540 Evergreen Parkway, Evergreeen, CO, 80439

Mailing Address: 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110

Phone: 303-566-4100 Web: ArvadaPress.com To subscribe call 303-566-4100 A publication of

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com

MICHAEL DE YOANNA Editor-in-Chief michael@coloradocommunitymedia.com

KRISTEN FIORE West Metro Editor kfiore@coloradocommunitymedia.com

RYLEE DUNN Community Editor rdunn@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Columnists & Guest Commentaries Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Press. We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Email letters to lkfiore@coloradocommunitymedia.com Deadline Tues. for the following week’s paper.

Arvada press

A legal newspaper of general circulation in Je erson County, Colorado, the Arvada Press is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media, 3540 Evergreen Parkway, Evergreen, CO 80439.

POSTMASTER: Send address change to: Arvada Press, 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225, Englewood, CO 80110

The scene at the 2024 Arvada Kids Fishing contest.

PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF ARVADA

Over 230 kids came down for the kids fishing contest this year.

BRIEFS

Mangiami’s seizure notice

Just before the STiX announcement, dutiful Arvada residents noticed a seizure notice posted on the business’s front door, which ended up signaling the end of the hockey bar.

Luckily for fans of Olde Town Italian eatery Mangiami’s, a similar notice that recently forced the restaurant to temporarily close will not mean the end of operations, according to owner and director of operations Olivia Dungey.

Dungey said Mangiami’s had a payment agreement with the City

of Arvada, and accidentally missed a payment due to an “internal accounting mistake,” which caused the city to issue the notice of seizure. Dungey said the restaurant is hoping to reopen soon.

“We hope to open again in the coming days,” Dungey said. “ e city has given us 10 days to acquire the demanded funds. We are extremely optimistic that we will be able to provide this and open our doors again soon. To the friends and family of Mangiami, we are extremely sorry for this mishap and inconvenience.

“We cannot wait to resume business and our entire sta is eager to get back to work,” she continued.

Dungey said she hopes the restaurant will reopen early in the week of June 10.

The future home of Wapos Cantina on the corner of Ralston Road and Olde Wadsworth Boulevard.

PHOTO BY RYLEE DUNN

Meet third-generation hat shaper Parker Thomas at the Mile High Hoedown

BY JO ANN M. COLTON

Colorado-born Parker omas Orms always envisioned himself growing up and tackling life head-on as an athlete on a sports eld. So, how did he wind up being a hat shaper and owner of Hats By Parker omas? e answer is… fate! Parker’s father Glenn has been a hat shaper all his life following the tradition set by his own father. Parker’s grandpa Dewey started shaping hats 65 years ago in Texas — and did so until his death in 2022.

Parker inherited his passion for playing sports from his mom and her family. His mother Katherine lettered in softball at Northern Colorado in the 1970s.

Parker omas Orms attended Colorado University Boulder (20102013) on a football scholarship and played defensive back for the Colorado Bu aloes football team. He was an engaging presence on the eld and a fan favorite. Parker was on the path to joining the NFL although football-related injuries (shoulder and hamstring injuries and a torn ACL for which he had to undergo surgery) likely ended that pursuit.

In 2015, Parker traveled to Milan to play semi-pro football as a Free Safety Punt Return Man for the Milano Rhinos, Italy’s professional league. But after playing his last football season in Europe, Parker omas came home to his family and the family traditions that are tightly woven into the fabric of his being. So, it wasn’t just a “hat” trick that led him to become a hat shaper and Parker’s success is proving to be far more rewarding than he could ever have imagined.

“I worked with my father and grandfather for eight years. Traveling around di erent rodeos and western-themed events, I shaped and designed cowboy and fedora hats,” said

Parker who has been adding his own sense of style and creativity to traditional hats while shaping his own destiny in the process.

en he opened Hats By Parker omas (https://www.hatsbyparkerthomas.com/) two years ago at 257 Fillmore St., Unit 110, in the Cherry Creek area of Denver where he meets with his clientele by appointment. Parker and his small team of hat craftsmen also shape and sell his hats nationwide at private home parties (with 5-25 people), weddings, corporate gatherings, and community events. Likewise, sports gures and celebrities like Reba McEntire are now a part of his overall customer base. Most of Parker’s bookings are

made through his business location or through Instagram and TikTok.

e store and private events keep Parker busy these days but he still enjoys opportunities to be part of community events like the June 29 Mile High Hoedown at the Stampede in Aurora.

“I am really looking forward to meeting people at the Mile High Hoedown,” said Parker who explained that he welcomes every opportunity to support Colorado’s lifestyles and interact with athletes/artists, and all others within its many communities.

“Each hat and design depends on the needs of the customer and the customizations they choose,” said Parker. He stated that although he can

shape any type hat he especially enjoys creating cowboy style hats, which are so very popular throughout Colorado.

“Most hats can be done in around 30 minutes and I will make your hat to order right there at the Mile High Hoedown,” said Parker who mentioned that his custom wool or beaver-blend hats range from $200 to $450. For additional fees he also o ers cleaning, reshaping and branding services.

Music lovers won’t want to miss a beat when Boulder’s very own Sun Jr. brings their “Psych Mountain Rock” sounds to the stage. Dancers will love learning the latest line dances taught throughout the day by dance instructor/choreographer Laurie Burkardt. Attendees can visit vendor booths and print their own shirt or tank top with Ink and Drink, obtain a ash tattoo from Ace of MR. ACE Art & Tattoos, and get interactive with some “not permanent but cool” body art/ face painting and/or hair sparkle accents from Little People Face Painting. Enjoy food truck food/beverages, and stop by and meet with hat shaper Parker omas to purchase your custom hat!

Get the “low down” on the Hoedown (tickets and more) at coloradocommunitymedia.com. Mark your calendars for CCM’s Mile High Hoedown on Saturday/June 29 (11:00am-5:00pm) at the Stampede, 2431 S. Havana Street in Aurora. Socialize with friends and/or family, eat/ drink/kick up your heels—and just have a rip-roaring good time! Tickets are $20/per ticket; $25.00 at the door and includes the entry fee only. For a limited time, CCM is running a BOGO promotion on its website; don’t miss out BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

FLASHTATTOOSWITHMR.ACE** MAKECUSTOMHATSWITHPARKERTHOMAS** LEARNPOPULARLINEDANCESWITHLAURIEBURKHARDT

BODYART/FACEPAINTING&SPARKLEHAIRWITH LITTLEPEOPLEFACEPAINTING**

SCREENPRINTYOUROWNT-SHIRTANDLEARNHOWTOCREATIVECUT

YOURT-SHIRTSWITHINK&DRINK** FOODTRUCKS&DRINKS**

Butter ies and bees are some of the best features of summer — seeing them y through yards and parks is a reminder of the simple beauty present in nature. But these insects are also pollinators and play a crucial role in the ecosystem.

June is National Pollinator Month and it is only tting that Westminster’s Butter y Pavilion is going all out to celebrate these critical species. e pavilion has been hosting a range of events all month long, culminating in the second annual Pollinator Palooza Festival.

VOICES

Butterfly Pavilion celebrates pollinators

COMING ATTRACTIONS

“We believe it is our responsibility to share information about the importance of pollinators and why people should care and want to protect and conserve them. And we open the doors for people to do just that,” wrote Heather Brown, director of Membership and Guest Services, in an email interview. “What better way to do that than our annual Pollinator Palooza Festival, where you can have fun while learning more about the importance of pollinators and how you can get involved.”

Special Pollinator Month events are going on through June at the pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave. and Pollinator Palooza is from noon to 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 29.

e Palooza is a blend of outdoor and indoor events, featuring animal interactions, butter y releases, a pollinator market, live music and performances (including by local dance groups), garden tours, food trucks and beer garden, and more.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Support for Obi Ezeadi

“Visitors will have the chance to participate in one of many pollinator-themed craft workshops and enjoy fabulous cultural performances,” Brown wrote. “ ey will also be able to learn about Butter y Pavilion’s conservation projects and talk to the experts.”

Creating respect and appreciation for all pollinator species is the major reason behind all activities the pavilion is hosting in June and for very good reason.

“Pollinators are in decline, yet are critical for our ecosystems and agriculture,” Brown wrote. “In fact, pollinators are responsible for one out of every three bites of food we eat. So, we want to spread the news that they need our support.”

e Butter y Pavilion has long been a leader in pollinator conservation, working locally, nationally and globally to seek and implement solutions for their success, according to provided information. From research, habitat restoration and working on sustainable landscapes, the pavilion is continually looking at new ways to protect the critical invertebrate species that keep our planet thriving.

“I hope people who visit in June have fun and learn more about

the importance of pollinators and Butter y Pavilion’s global e orts to conserve and protect them,” Brown wrote. “More importantly, I hope people learn that everyone can get involved in the mission to help these vital creatures.”

For details on the events and the work the pavilion does, visit www. butter ies.org.

Take a Portal to Walker Fine Art’s New Exhibition

Portals, the name of the latest exhibit at Walker Fine Art, 300 W. 11th Ave., No. A in Denver, a perfect t for a show that highlights the transporting power of art.

e show runs through Saturday, July 13, and features the work of Melana Bontrager, Aaron Morgan Brown, Melanie Grein, Caprice Pierucci, Sharon Strasburg and Ana Zanic. In their own way, each artist uses a range of mediums — from painting, sculpture, watercolor and printmaking — to o er work that provides the viewer with a way to explore time, place and consciousness. For more information, visit www. walker neart.com.

Castle Rock Welcomes Summer with Classic Rock Cruise In

Summertime just feels summerier when you’re around some really cool cars.

To immerse yourself in the cool car vibe, check out Castle Rock’s 16th Annual Classic Rock Cruise In. e free event will be held at Wil-

cox Square, 301 Wilcox St., in downtown Castle Rock from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 15. ere will be about 300 cars for people to check out, as well as live bands, food trucks, local breweries, shopping and free activities for children. ere will also be a free street party on Wilcox Street on the eve of the event, held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 14. All the details for both events can be found at https:// thevintagecarclub.com/classicrock-cruise-in.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Zach Bryan at Empower Field at Mile In just a few short years, Oklahoma’s Zach Bryan has made a name for himself as one of country music’s most important new voices. He’s released just two studio albums, but he’s proven that a simple and straightforward approach to the genre really resonates with people. e size of his popularity can be proven by the fact that he’ll be playing Empower Field at Mile High, 1701 Bryant St. in Denver, at 7 p.m. on Friday, June 14, and Saturday, June 15.

He’s joined for both evenings by exciting new voices, Sierra Ferrell and Levi Turner. ese will be great concerts, so get tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.

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

As a long-time resident of Arvada, I have closely followed local and state politics, always on the lookout for candidates who genuinely have our community’s best interests at heart. In the upcoming election for State Senate, one candidate stands out to me: Obi Ezeadi. He is the Democrat running to represent Arvada in the State Senate. His signs are everywhere for a reason. is guy is di erent from your typical politician. Obi is not just a small business owner and entrepreneur, but also

a dedicated public servant with a proven track record as a Westminster City Councilor. During his tenure, Obi lowered water rates and championed clean drinking water, a ordable housing, economic growth, and infrastructure improvements, while providing free transport for seniors and disabled residents and supporting our rst responders.

Our current government is broken, prioritizing wealthy corporations over the needs of hardworking families in Arvada. Obi recognizes this problem and is determined to x it

through collaboration and civility. He believes that by working together across party lines, we can create a government that truly serves the people, not just the rich and powerful. What impresses me most about Obi is his focus on communication with real people, and his positive, practical solutions. When I asked why he is running for o ce, he said: “to ensure that our government works for everyone; wouldn’t it be great if we had more teachers, nurses, and re ghters running for o ce? Real people from the working-class?”His

thoughtful approach to critical issues like public education, healthcare, and housing demonstrates his understanding of what truly matters to families in Arvada.

Obi wants to empower people, remove barriers, and ensuring your nancial well-being. He is so refreshing.

For these reasons, I strongly support Obi for the Colorado State Senate. He has the vision and qualities we desperately need in our government. Join me in voting for Obi Ezeadi! Danielle Willner, Arvada

Clarke Reader

Imagine a world that values aging

Idon’t know about you, but I cringe when I see young people talking loudly to people who look older than themselves. Or when people say to one another, “Wow, you still look really good for your age.” It never ceases to amaze me just how ageist we are to one another and to ourselves.

Ageism is stereotyping and discrimination against individuals or groups based on their age. Studies have shown that 82% of older adults experience ageism daily. We develop ageist attitudes as early as age 3. And, unless we do something about ending ageism, it may get worse for all of us because we’re an aging society. According to the Census, by 2029, we will have more people over 65 than under 18. We see ageism everywhere — but it seems it does its most harm in our education system, in the media and at work. From schools celebrating the rst 100 days by requiring children to wear costumes as if they’re 100-years-old to universities denying access to life-long learning opportunities. If we valued aging, our education system would prepare us for getting older, not mock it. Imagine universities that prepare leaders for the demographic shift with courses such as “ e Economics of Aging” or “National Security and Aging.”

GUEST

Imagine if we stopped using the line, “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” Because, actually, you can. Studies show that older dogs focus and concentrate better than puppies. Older adults are better at behavior change because of a lifetime of commit-

ting to reaching goals.

With unemployment levels at near-record lows, we’re in a tight labor market and employers are having a tough time lling vacancies. Yet, they overlook older workers which, according to AARP, costs the U.S. an estimated $850 billion in gross domestic product.

OBITUARIES

As adults, we get wrinkles and tell ourselves we need to reverse the signs of aging, or that we’re too old to be wearing certain things. If we valued aging, we would be less “youth-obsessed” and more “life-obsessed.” Studies show that all these negative views of aging double the risk of cardiovascular events and increase the likelihood of dementia. But with a positive view of aging, we could live nearly eight years longer.

If we valued aging, we’d encourage generative, productive aging — not rely on centuries-old ideas that we want to do nothing as we age. German Chancellor Otto Von Bismarck is given credit for our modern version of retirement, which the U.S. later adopted when life expectancy was 62. But now it’s 77, and more people want and need to work, yet the hiring practices of businesses ignore older workers. Imagine if businesses intentionally recruited or retrained older workers. ese multigenerational workplaces would be more innovative, have stronger pipelines of talent and be more resilient.

I’m optimistic that we’re all becoming more aware of age bias in everything we do. Imagine if society valued all our future selves.

Peter Kaldes, Esq., is the president and CEO of Next50, a national foundation based in Denver. Learn more at next50foundation.org.

sunscreen to get su cient vitamin D scores. Wear sunscreen, add vitamin D dense food and consider taking a supplement.

Foothills Urogynecology recommends annual dermatology appointments to address your skin issues or damage. You don’t need to risk skin cancer by not wearing

Dr. Terry Dunn is the owner of Foothills Urogynecology, a Denver-based practice specializing in women’s health. To learn more, visit www. urogyns.com.

William

January 28, 1952 - May 28, 2024

William F Conrad transitioned to his heavenly home on May 30, 2024 in Aurora, CO. Born on Long Island, NY, he migrated with his family to Arvada, CO many years ago where he worked as an Operating Engineer under Local 138, and raised his two children, David and John with

his wife Ellen. He will be greatly missed. He is predeceased by his son, David Conrad, parents Lloyd and Lucille, as well as brother Robert Conrad and sister Sandra Hedbawny. He is survived by his wife Ellen Conrad, son John Conrad, and sister Jacqueline Wilson.

CONRAD

Frederick “Billy” Conrad

Peter Kaldes

Locomotives that built Colorado mining towns continue to steam after 150 years

BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Inside the mechanic shop of the Colorado Railroad Museum, the air is thick with smoke and the smell of burning wood and diesel fuel as locomotive #20 prepares to re up its steam engine to burn coal as it rst did in 1899.

e #20 was named “Portland‘’ after a pro table mine in the Cripple Creek District and was built to haul passengers and freight. It was sold to Rio Grande Southern in 1916, according to historians.

It was eventually donated to the Railroad Museum and returned to operation in 2020 following a $2 million,14-year restoration, accord-

ing to CRRM Chief Mechanic Je Taylor.

Taylor was the rst of several working mechanics/historians Colorado Community Media spoke with who made it clear: railroading and its history is not a job or hobby, it’s a passion.

“I like to say I get to play trains and it’s true,” Taylor said. “It sounds like a cliche but people say, ‘Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.’ Well, it’s mostly true. I still have hard days at work but I love what I do. It’s been a passion for all of my life. As far back as I remember, I’ve always liked trains. I never grew out of it.”

In 1943, the 43-ton #20 locomotive rolled over and o the tracks on a hill

outside Durango. According to historians, it landed on a rock that dented the thick steel plate of the boiler. e plate was eventually replaced as part of its restoration.

“All of these locomotives and all of these pieces of equipment and cars all have terribly fascinating stories and backgrounds. Almost all of them have been in some sort of derailment or wreck,” Taylor said.

Engine #20 is just one of the meticulously restored locomotives on the 15 acres of the Colorado Railroad Museum at 17155 W 44 Ave. in Golden. e living museum maintainsmore than 100 narrow and standardgauge steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars and cabooses, according to the museum.

Also on-site is locomotive #491, the largest operating narrow gauge steam locomotive in the western hemisphere, according to CRRM historians. Locomotive #491 is truly a “Colorado original,” having been built entirely in Colorado during the spring of 1928.

e largest steam engine at the museum, originally a Chicago Burlington and Quincy Railroad locomotive #5629, was built in 1940 and was used for fast freight and passenger service. It remained in operation until the early 1960s. No. 5629 is one of only four Burlington locomotives of its type still in existence, according to CRRM historians.

TRACKS

Enthusiasts can still board restored passenger cars for an authentic ride through on the rails powered by coalre steam locomotives, including #20.

Locomotives and railroads critical in the development of mining towns of Colorado

“ e story of Colorado being transformed in the 19th and 20th centuries is pretty much inseparable from the story of the railroad, so it’s hard to imagine Colorado without railroads,”

CRRM Executive Director Paul Hammond said.

e history is well documented in the CRRM library and resource center that spans well over 100 years of historical documents, maps and photographs. It was visited by more than 100,000 people from around the world last year, according to Hammond.

Gold and silver were discovered in Clear Creek County and Idaho Springs in 1859. Railroads didn’t arrive until 1876, according to historian Bob Bowland whose family settled in the mountain area in 1873.

“ e railroads were critical,” Bowland said.

Bowland and his wife Jan operate and maintain the Visitors Center and Historical Society at 2060 Miner St. in Idaho Springs.

“A lot of ore had to go to Denver to be treated after being milled up here and we certainly had mills but thenal smelting and re ning needed to be hauled to Denver,” Bowland said. ”Railroad transportation compared to the old ore wagons, there was really no comparison.”

e Argo Mill, 2350 Riverside Drive in Idaho Springs, would routinely ship up to 300 tons of gold and silver of highgrade ore to Denver smelters for nal processing, according to historical records.

“It’s so common to see mining towns and railroads together; they’re industries that need each other,” Bowland said with a laugh. “I would say, at least in this case, the mining needed the railroad more than the railroad needed the mines.”

Historical black-and-white photos of train cars lled with gold and silver ore heading to Denver ordain the walls of the historical society.

Well-dressed passengers from well over a century ago are also pictured boarding the steam-driven locomotive trains.

“Anytime a railroad arrived in town

back in those days it was a big deal and so it was truly critical,” Bowland said.

Devil’s Gate Station and High-Bridge defined Georgetown Loop railroad in 1883

e Devil’s Gate high bridge in Georgetown was considered to be an engineering feat when it was built in 1883, according to historical documents reviewed by Colorado Community Media.

It allowed trains climbing over steep mountains to switch back as the railroad rose from Georgetown to Silver Plume, according to the National and State Register.

“When it was built there were very few bridges that were curved and on a grade,” Brakeman and Conductor of the Georgetown Loop Railroad Caleb Murphy said. “It was thought that bridges had to be straight and level to be structurally sound but we did it and it was one of four or ve in the world at the time.”

e High-Bridge is approximately 300 feet long and built with an 18.5 degree left hand curve. It’s 100 feet above the Clear Creek bed and was originally constructed of cast and wrought iron, according to Murphy.

“ e old-time railroaders used to say that the bridge used to sway from sideto-side and sag in the middle as trains crossed over, thankfully our bridge does not do that,” Murphy said.

e original iron bridge was dismantled in 1939 and rebuilt in the 1970s.

It’s currently in use as the Georgetown Loop passenger train attracting more than 100,000 locals and visitors each year for historical trips with one of several restored coal- red steam locomotives, according to Murphy.

It’s not a job, it’s a passion e historians, engineers, mechanics and volunteers who spoke with CCM are passionate about the history of railroading in Colorado.

“ is job?” Murphy asked, “It’s just a dream come true.”

e public’s attraction and passion for these historically accurate refurbished coal- red steam locomotives and cars was evident during CRRM’s recent “Colorado Crossings: Making History Today” event.

Locomotives #491 and #20 pulled passengers in original rail cars along the tracks surrounding the museum.

Hundreds of train enthusiasts, many dressed in vintage railroad overalls and hats with children in tow, snapped family pictures with living history as a background.

e existing parking lot over owed across the road, where it tripled in size.

In 1943, the 43-ton #20 locomotive rolled over and o the tracks on a hill outside Durango. According to historians, it landed on a rock that dented the thick steel plate of the boiler. The plate was eventually replaced as part of its restoration.

PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL

The story of Colorado being transformed in the 19th and 20th centuries is pretty much inseparable from the story of the railroad, historians say.

Colorado Railroad Museum Chief Mechanic Je Taylor with Engine #20, just one of the meticulously restored locomotives on the 15 acres of the museum grounds at 17155 W. 44th Ave. in Golden.

PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL

Plans to annex Bandimere site head to town of Morrison

Auto auction company wants to open new location on property, later adding retail and restaurant

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A proposal to annex the 125-acre Bandimere property will come before Morrison’s planning commission July 9 and its town board Aug. 6. e pair of hearings are the rst steps in a process that would

dramatically change the use of the former speedway site at C470 and Morrison Road.

Longtime Bandimere Speedway owner John Bandimere Jr. is negotiating to sell the land to Copark, an auto auction company that processes three million cars a year from 200 global locations.

In addition to annexing the unincorporated Je erson County parcel, Copart is asking Morrison to zone the area as a planned development and approve a development plan for its vehicle auction center.

Bandimere sees the change as ideal for Morrison and neighboring homeowners. Copart’s business

will be quiet, generate minimal trafc and won’t entail the construction of large buildings that could block views of the hogback, he said.

“When Copart showed an interest in our property, we looked at it as an answer made in heaven,” Bandimere said. “Copart is a solid company, and we can carry the tradition of automotive my mom and dad started. It’ll be a much quieter use, much less light and tra c. It’s a phenomenal use for this piece of property.”

Complicating the change in use, the Bandimere property is not currently served by a water and sewer system. But a Copart representative said those negotiations are underway.

“Eventually, it will connect to the town’s water and sewer,” said Vincent Harris, president of Baseline Engineering. “ e attorneys are working out an agreement for a date to make that connection.”

Twenty acres of the former speedway land, broken into two parcels on the south end of the property, are already in the town of Morrison. In a tra c impact study Harris submitted to the town in May, plans show two retail buildings and two fast food

restaurants on those parcels.

While the Bandimeres used those lots for parking, John Bandimere hopes they can now be developed and generate revenue for the community he’s leaving behind.

“We’ve had a relationship with Morrison for 65 years,” he said. “We just really wanted to be a good neighbor and make it so these 20 acres could be lasting income to the town.”

If the town approves the annexation, Harris said Copart will close its deal for the land, and submit a site plan to the town. If that also gets a green light, he expects Copart could begin needed construction and open in spring 2025. e retail uses would be developed later. e Bandimeres, meanwhile, plan to continue their drag racing legacy and move the longtime family business to a larger site near the metro area.

“A lot of people think we’re being forced out by Red Rocks Ranch and Solterra,” Bandimere said, referring to housing developments east of C470 that have gone up in the past several years. “ at’s really not true.

The former Bandimere Speedway site, which closed last year, could be annexed into the Town of Morrison and become the new home of an auto auction company.

COURTESY PHOTO

Thu 6/20

Meet Me At The Altar @ 7pm

Scott James @ 7pm

Ogden Theatre, 935 E Colfax Ave, Denver

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison

Gift of Jazz's "Up Next": JoFoKe & Same Cloth @ 7:30pm

Woods Boss Brewing, 2210 California St, Denver

Fri 6/21

Beyond Laser Light Experience @ 12pm Denver

Alysia Kraft @ 7pm

Skylark Lounge, 140 S Broadway, Denver

Rachel Baiman @ 8pm

Bluebird Theater, 3317 E Colfax Av, Denver

AGON @ 9pm

Mile High Spirits Craft Cocktails + Live Music, 2201 Lawrence St, Denver

Sat 6/22

Alana Mars @ 8pm

Audrey Riggs @ 8pm

Lost Lake Lounge, 3602 E Colfax Ave, Denver

Dekid @ 10pm X BAR, 629 E Colfax Ave, Denver

Sun 6/23

The Sensations @ 5pm

Globe Hall, 4483 Logan St, Denver

Mon 6/24

Armor for Sleep: 20 Years of Tears

Denver @ 6pm

Ogden Theatre, 935 E Colfax Ave, Denver

Hawthorne Heights @ 7pm

Ogden Theatre, 935 E Colfax Ave, Denver

Tue 6/25

Beyond Laser Light Experience @ 4pm

Denver

Jeff in Leather / Joyfriend / Hex

Cassette / Microplastics @ 7pm

The Crypt, 1618 E 17th Ave, Denver

Wed 6/26

Soulful Sounds in Denver! @ 6pm / $10

King Center, 855 Lawrence Way, Denver. info@acutein�ections.com

Los Toms @ 7pm

Lost Lake Lounge, 3602 E Colfax Ave, Denver

Extra Gold @ 8pm

Globe Hall, 4483 Logan St, Denver

Barbara @ 8pm

Skylark Lounge, 140 S Broadway, Denver

Hi-Dive, 7 S Broadway, Denver

Orquesta Akokan: Orquesta Akokán @ 7:30pm

Arvada Center for the Arts and Humani‐ties, 6901 Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada

Rob Leines @ 11pm HQ, 60 S Broadway, Denver

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.

The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab o ers knowledge, training

BY BRUCE GOLDBERG SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

anks to Denver’s CELL (Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab), 16,000 people in Minneapolis took training to recognize and possibly prevent attacks at the Super Bowl about 10 years ago.

And they weren’t alone.

“CELL has done similar training in Arizona when it hosted the Super Bowl two years ago, as well as many other events and venues nationwide,” said Tom

CELL exhibit opens in Denver

Ruppel, chief operating o cer for CELL.

Other municipalities and sporting events have had CELL customize their training to match a speci c event, venue or place.

“What’s tremendous about these events is that there are 2,000 to 3,000 people each time – the public, students, community leaders, business leaders under one roof, listening to those experts debate the issues of the day,” said Melanie Pearlman, president and CEO of CELL.

CELL is a nonpro t, non-partisan institute and o ers a speaker series and training programs. It reopened in early May, following a four-year pause to renovate its home at 99 W. 12th Ave.

in Denver. CELL updated its displays and o erings during the four-year hiatus in order to provide an interactive experience to block security threats.

Among the exhibits is a large, attention-grabbing, badly damaged piece of metal recovered from the south tower of the World Trade Center.

“ e CELL is a place to stay on top of an evolving landscape of the threats we continue to face,” said Pearlman.

Titled exhibits with names such as “Vitriol & Violence,” “What is Terrorism,” “Rooted in Extremism,” “Countering Today’s reats” and “Civil Liberties & National Security” grab visitors’ attention.

A steel beam from the 9/11 attacks on New York’s World Trade Center is one of the exhibits on display at the Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL) in Denver.

“( e walking tour) takes a lot of the great work that the Historical Society has done and then put it on a on a map that people can get on their phone and kind of follow along,” Kuroiwa said. “My real hope is that it can live past this year so that when we have people visiting

Olde Town, they can learn a little bit about the history of the buildings that they’re seeing and the people who came before us and Arvada.”

When Arvada was incorporated in 1904, it was a small settlement that primarily focused on agriculture — the city was once known as the “Celery Capital of the World.”

A number of important “ rsts” occurred within Arvada’s city limits, including the rst King Soopers grocery store and the rst tra c light

Photo by Michael Pintar

in Je erson County (at the intersection of Grandview Avenue and Olde Wadsworth Boulevard).

Now, the city is home to over 120,000 residents split across two counties. Mayor Lauren Simpson said the city has grown into something beyond what anyone could have expected.

“It’s exciting to commemorate the 120th anniversary of Arvada as a city,” Simpson said. “ is community has grown, I expect, in ways far beyond what its founders could have ever imagined. But I think they’d be really proud of what we’ve become.

“Arvada is a special place,” she continued. “Not because of the nice things we have—our parks and trails, historic Olde Town, etc. Rather, it’s the people that make this city a community. ere’s an authenticity — an ‘Arvada-ness’ — that motivates us to want to take care of our city… and of one another”

A number of businesses are getting in on the festivities. On June 22, La Patisserie Francaise will serve special 120th Anniversary branded cookies, while Outside e Box will be giving away free Swedish dishcloths sporting the anniversary logo.

Arvadans looking for a drink can stop by LUKI Brewery for a special Arvada Beer — set to be released around Aug. 1 — or Odyssey Beerwerks for $2 o its Gold Strike

Kolsch from June 15 through July 15.

Meanwhile, the Arvada Flour Mill will be open for tours on Sundays through September, with groups starting at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. e tours are $10 for people over the age of 12 and come with a free book, “ e Old Mill” about the mill’s history. Mill tours won’t be held on July 7, Aug. 4 and Sept. 1.

Kuroiwa said about half of Arvada’s residents have lived in town for 20 years or more — meaning that, for a large portion of the city’s population, Arvada history may be new information.

“We certainly have people who have lived in Arvada for their whole lives; about 50% of residents have lived here 20 years or more,” Kuroiwa said. “So there’s lots of people who may be aware of some of this history, but we also have new folks who are going to be learning the history of Arvada for the rst time.”

EXHIBIT

“ e impetus for the CELL was brought by the unfortunate attack of Sept. 11,” Pearlman said. “We wanted to form a (way) to educate people about issues that a ect our national security and our global security.

We brought together an array of thought leaders and subject matter experts for everything you can imagine, people from all di erent religious and political persuasions, that really helped us for an understanding for visitors.”

CELL does more than just share the knowledge.

“We want to help prevent crime and possible acts of terrorism to help prevent radicalization, and to teach enrollees how to do so,” Ruppel said.

For example, its Community Awareness Program works with local, state and federal safety o cials to help train people on how to recognize and report suspicious activity, as well as “discover how hatred can lead to violence, learn how terrorism in uences global security, and engage ... to make our community safer.”

“ is past year, we developed a new education series all about how we can address the rising threat of domestic, violent extremism here in Colorado,” Ruppel said. “We brought in experts from across the country to address and really speak to the community members about how to recognize (terrorist threats) and what concrete steps you can take to help prevent radical (behavior).”

To learn more about CELL, visit www.thecell.org.

Photography

Arvada’s 120th Anniversary logo. COURTESY

FROM PAGE 18

Local rafting expert provides summer safety tips

BY JOHN RENFROW JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Take a ride on some Rocky Mountain whitewater between hiking and camping this summer for a refreshing and fun- lled afternoon. But read this article rst.

Whitewater rafting is as notoriously Colorado as green chili, but it can be deadly if you’re not careful. According to stats from the National Institutes of Health in 2018, Colorado has led the nation in whitewater fatalities since 1975.

Fortunately, local experts, like the ones at Liquid Descent Rafting in Idaho Springs and Kremmling, have been leading safe excursions on the water since 2007, and their safety tips can save lives and create lifelong memories for mountain enthusiasts.

“We’ve got it gured out in Colorado,” Liquid Descent Owner Alan Blado said. “Especially on Clear Creek. It snows all winter and we ride Loveland Ski Area and Echo Mountain and enjoy the snow. It melts, and we enjoy it as it runs down the hills on rafts and kayaks. en it ows into Golden and we make a bunch of beer.”

Blado said he’s showing tourists and inexperienced rafters the ropes every day, so he helped us come up with eight things to know before hitting the water this summer.

1. Rafting season tentatively runs from May through August

Generally, May 15 is the target date for rafting season to open up, but it all depends on forces bigger than us.

“It just kind of depends on when the creek gets high enough to run; weather determines that,” Blado said. “So, like this year, it’s been a slow build because it’s been colder than it usually is, which is great because the longer the river takes to peak (hit maximum ow) the longer the season is going to last.”

SPORTS

8 things to know before whitewater rafting

With the strong snowpack this past winter (the best since 2019) along with a cool spring, Blado said it’s shaping up to be a long and successful season.

“Not only is the season going to last longer, but the river is going to provide more excitement and more fun,” he said.

Blado anticipates the season running through August, but it depends on the water and the weather.

2. You technically don’t need to know how to swim, but it’s encouraged Depending on the adventure option you choose, it’s not necessary to know how to swim. But it’s always encouraged, especially when rafting through Clear Creek, which can be more dangerous than most rafting locations.

At Liquid Descent, the ability to swim is not required on the Upper Colorado, Clear Creek Beginner and Clear Creek Intermediate trips. Participants must know how to swim for the Clear Creek Ad-

vanced and Gore Canyon trips.

“We hope that people know how to swim when they do the beginner or intermediate trips, but we don’t require it,” Blado said.

3. You must sign a waiver before going whitewater rafting

All whitewater rafting participants must sign a waiver. Parents or guardians must sign for individuals under the age of 18.

You can nd the digital waiver on Liquid Descent’s website.

4. Colorado Parks & Wildlife requires 50 hours of on-river training for guides

Guides are required to be seasoned professionals before taking the public on rafting expeditions. Colorado Parks & Wildlife requires 50 full hours of on-river training before being allowed to take customers out on the water.

But Blado requires more.

“If you ask me, that’s nowhere near enough to guide on Clear Creek,” he said. “Because Clear Creek is a little

bit steeper and there’s some aggressive sections. So, even on the beginners’ section, we require our guides to have over 100 hours of on-river training before they can even think about taking customers.”

Blado said the state requirement is pretty minimal because, in a lot of cases, raft guides won’t be on as dangerous water as Clear Creek whitewater. at’s why he doubles the state requirement to ensure optimal training for guides and safety for customers.

5. Show up in street clothes with rafting clothes in hand

Obviously, you’re going to get wet. Because of this, avoid cotton clothes, jeans and other fabrics that absorb or hold a lot of moisture.  e best clothing to wear is quickdrying, synthetic fabrics that are comfortable under your wetsuit, which is required. Bathing suits are ideal choices.

Whitewater rafting is a favorite outdoor activity for tourists and locals alike, but it can be dangerous if you don’t take the proper safety steps. Here, a group enjoys a rafting adventure with the help of a local guide. COURTESY OF LIQUID DESCENT RAFTING

Je co foster dads speak on the importance of LGBTQ+ foster homes

BY JO DAVIS JDAVIS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Chad Harbertson and Kayunte Berry are Je co foster dads recently honored by the state of Colorado for their work in the foster care system. In an interview with the Je co Transcript, Harbertson and Berry discussed the importance of their work, including providing a safe space for foster kids who identify as LGBTQ+.

According to the “Trevor Project Research Brief: LGBTQ Youth with a History of foster care,” a safe space is needed in order to prevent youth suicide among LGBTQ+ foster kids.  “LGBTQ youth who reported having been in foster care had three times greater odds of reporting a past-year suicide attempt compared to those who had not,” stated the research brief.

e Trevor Project Research Brief, completed in 2021, found that

RAFTING

Like most rafting companies, Liquid Descent provides wetsuits, splash jackets, personal oating devices and helmets. You can rent boots for $5 but can also bring any footwear with an ankle strap that remains securely on your feet (no ip- ops, Crocs, etc.).

6. No drugs or alcohol can be consumed before rafting

With steep rapids, jagged rocks in the water and fast-paced rafting, this rule is self-explanatory. ere is a notolerance policy for drugs and alcohol (including marijuana) before whitewater rafting.

7. Prepare for a workout

Depending on the level of di culty or experience you choose for your rafting outing, prepare for a workout. Fighting the rapids with your paddle can be a strong exercise for the biceps, shoulders, triceps, quads and more.

Intermediate and advanced trips will be quite the workout, so don’t expect a leisurely trip if you choose a more di cult rafting option.

Customers are welcome to bring water on the bus to the raft site but it’s recommended not to bring personal devices on the boat.

“victimization and rejection from caregivers,” were sources of the increased suicide attempt risk according to the brief.

Berry believes that LGBTQ+ foster parents are needed to provide a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth.

“ ere are kids that are going to feel safer in an environment like ours, a space that maybe not everyone else can provide,” Berry said.

Both Berry and Harbertson acknowledged the “stigma” of fostering, for queer foster parents, is more exaggerated on social media than he has experienced in real life.

“I’d still recommend they give it a shot because, it’s not apparent, as much as it seems,” Berry said. He credited the support of the social workers and others for welcoming him into the foster parenting community.

FOSTER DADS, P31

8. Rafting is accessible to people of all ages and experience levels

Blado said a popular misconception about whitewater rafting is people might not think it’s accessible to everyone, but the variety of the Colorado landscape provides options for all.

“What’s awesome about Clear Creek is we have stretches for rsttimers and young kids all the way up to adrenaline-seeking, adventurous people,” Blado said. “So Clear Creek is perfect for that. And we have everything in between. Whether you have small kids (age 5 and up) or someone who has a little bit of trepidation about rafting and you want to start out at a really mild stretch, we got that.”

Liquid Descent also has options for rst-timers or experienced adrenaline junkies who want the “real, Colorado whitewater experience.” Clear Creek is unlike other rivers because it’s constantly moving with little-to-no at water, making it a fun time for rafters of all ages and experience levels.

“I couldn’t design a better river to o er to customers,” Blado said. “ e trips are action-packed and fun and perfect for those looking to have some awesome whitewater experiences.”

For more information and FAQs, visit https://coloradorafting.com/.

ST. JOANOF ARC CATHOLICCHURCH

Proclaiming Christ from the Mountains to the Plains www.StJoanArvada.org

12735 W 58th Ave · 80002 · 303-420-1232

Daily Masses: 8:30am, Mon-Sat

Confessions: 8am Tue-Fri; 7:30am & 4:00pm Sat

Saturday Vigil Mass: 5:00pm

Sunday Masses: 7:30, 9:00, 11:30am, 5:30pm

Connection…Discover Faith” All Are Welcome Advertise Your Place of Worship

303-985-8733 www.gmpc.net Sunday Worship 10:00AM

We meet in person with extraordinary live music on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month from 10:30a.m. to noon at: Activity Options, 7401 W. 59th Ave., Arvada, 80003.

Green Mountain Presbyterian Church 12900 W Alameda Pkwy Lakewood, CO 80228

All other Sunday meetings are on zoom from 10:30a.m. to noon.

Please phone: 720-576-9193, or email: livingwaterspiritualcommunity@gmail.com

Our website is: www.livingwaterunity.org

To advertise your place of worship in this section, call Erin at 303-566-4074 or email

eaddenbrooke@ColoradoCommunityMedia.com

Chad Harbertson and Kayunte Berry are Je co foster parents who encourage other members of the LGBTQ+ community to open their homes to foster kids.

COURTESY OF COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES

CAREERS

Functional Analyst in Thornton, CO to revolutionize battery indstry by developing next-gen, all solid-state rechargeable batteries. B.S. in Com. Sci, IT Tech. Bs info Sys., or rltd (will accept frgn edu equiv) & 5 yrs exp in SAP S/4 HANA MM-PP apps. Must also possess: SAP S/4 HANA RISE Private Ed; SAP Ariba, SAP FI/SD, or SAP APO; 2 full-cycle SAP MM-PP Func. Area implmntns; Agile & Lean methods; BAPI/BADI/ & Integrtn of Fiori App; Data Migration tool; SAP S/4 HANA Sourcing & Procurement Cert. $205,982.00/yr. Submit app to chasity.guzman@solidpowerb attery.com & refer to this ad in cover letter.

Optical Engineer

Trimble Inc. has an opening for Optical Engineer in Westminster, CO to serve as camera design lead to an international engineering team dedicated to the development of the next generation of Survey, Construction and GIS positioning instruments

$159,438.75-169,438.75/yr. Standard company benefits. To apply, send resume to TNLJobs_US@trimble.com. Must reference job 6083.1695.3

MARKETPLACE

Misc. Notices

WIDOWED MEN AND WOMEN OF AMERICA. A social club offering many exciting activities and life long friendships. Social hours for all areas of Metro Denver. Visit

Widowedamerica.org for details In your area!

Merchandise

Firewood

Health & Beauty

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060

www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Medical

Miscellaneous

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

Split & Delivered $450 a cord Stacking $50 Call 303-647-2475 or 720-323-2173

Lawn & Garden

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833606-6777

Health & Beauty

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS!

50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Espanol

Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-4779045

Miscellaneous

Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888-878-9091

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable pricesNo payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+?

You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 833-308-1971

Become a published author We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author`s guide 1-877-7294998 or visit dorranceinfo. com/ads

MARKETPLACE

Miscellaneous

Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code!

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833399-3595

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-9486176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/ mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/ Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866433-8277

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a lim-ited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer.) Offer ends 6/30/24. Call 1-844-501-3208

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Miscellaneous

MobileHelp America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts!

Free brochure! Call 1-888489-3936

Were you effected by the most recent power outage in the Golden area?

Have you dreamed of being off the grid?

I am Alan Davis, the Civil Engineer at Level Engineering.

Our Website: www.levelengineering.com. Just a few days after the 3-day outage Xcel Energy announced a program where you can get backup power (An entire home Powerwall battery). The program has a combination of both a rebate (check in the mail) from Xcel and a tax credit* that equals almost 100% reimbursement.

To know more call Level Engineering at 720-408-1388 or Alan Davis on his cell phone at 303-378-7537 or email him Adavis@levelengineering.com

*To benefit from a tax credit, you have to pay federal income taxes.

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don’t wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-844-591-7951

www.puppylovedoodles.com

Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

ANNEX

“Our platform isn’t about racing. It’s about family,” he continued. “Most people have no idea what a tight-knit group the drag racing family is in this area. We have people who grew up here; it’s been a

FOSTER DADS

Berry and Harbertson urge other members of the LGBTQ+ community to foster. ey can do so without partners, as Harbertson did. He was a single foster parent for over six years before meeting Berry. Alone, Harbertson has cared for 49 kids and teens. e placements ranged from a few days to several months. He wants people to know that perfection isn’t needed to foster.

part of their life. In a sense, we feel obligated to continue that.”

e proposed new site will allow the family to expand their operations.

“ e property (we’re considering) is 10 times larger,” John Bandimere said. “It has water, sewer, highway access — all of the things that are needed to be able to have an event. It’ll be not just a race track. ere’ll

“I feel like there’s that idea that you need to be a perfect parent, or give these kids a perfect home,” Harbertson said. “Remember that these kids have come from such imperfect homes, they are put with you during that transition into something so different. ey come with very di erent levels of expectations.”

In addition, Harbertson explained that one’s life experience may be needed in fostering. Even a variety of nontraditional life experiences.  “ ose of us who have maybe had some rough spots in life and hard times have great ways to con-

be commercial, places where people can store vehicles.”

Bandimere Jr., who is 86, said his son John “Sporty” Bandimere, has been managing operations in Morrison and will do so at the new site.

John Bandimere Sr. bought the 150-acre property on Morrison Road in 1957 — decades before C470 was built — and opened the speedway a year later. Also known

nect with these kids who have been through those tough times too,” Harbertson said. “So, there’s opportunities for everybody to t in. But I think if somebody was feeling like, ‘maybe I’ve made mistakes, or I’ve done this or that and things have been hard for me, those are the things that help most with the kids.”

e foster dads urge everyone interested to join an information session or sign up to volunteer with the Colorado Department of Human Services.

For more information on fostering in Colorado, go to CO4Kids.org.

as under Mountain, the dragstrip hosted 28,500 spectators at more than 130 events a year. Bandimere Speedway closed at the end of the 2023 season.

Both public hearings begin at 6 p.m. at the town hall, 110 Stone St. in Morrison.

April 17, 2024.

For further information call Sarah Walters, Deputy City Clerk, at 720-898-7544.

Dated this 13th day of June 2024

/s/ Sarah Walters, Deputy City Clerk CITY OF ARVADA, COLORADO

Legal Notice No. 418610

First Publication: June 13, 2024

Last Publication: June 13, 2024

Publisher: Jeffco Transcript

Public Notice

NOTICE OF HEARING UPON APPLICATION FOR A NEW LODGING AND ENTERTAINMENT LIQUOR LICENSE OF ARVADA LODGING ASSOCIATES, LLC

D/B/A: RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT DENVER/ARVADA 7360 WEST 56TH AVENUE ARVADA, CO 80002

Notice is hereby given that an application has been presented to the City of Arvada Local Liquor Licensing authority for a Lodging and Entertainment liquor license from Arvada Lodging Associates, LLC, d/b/a Residence Inn by Marriott Denver/Arvada, located at 7360 West 56th Ave., Arvada, CO, whose controlling officer is: Judith P. Raymond; 4601 Frey Street, Madison, WI, United States.

The license would allow sales of malt, vinous and spirituous liquor by the drink for consumption on the premises at 7360 West 65th Avenue, Arvada,

CO 80002.

Said application will be heard and considered by the City of Arvada Liquor Licensing Authority at a virtual meeting to be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 24, 2024. The application was submitted on April 17, 2024.

For further information call Sarah Walters, Deputy City Clerk, at 720-898-7544.

Dated this 13th day of June 2024

/s/ Sarah Walters, Deputy City Clerk CITY OF ARVADA, COLORADO

Legal Notice No. 418609

First Publication: June 13, 2024

Last Publication: June 13, 2024

Publisher: Jeffco Transcript

Metro Districts Budget Hearings

Public Notice

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED 2023 BUDGET AMENDMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that proposed budget amendment for 2023 has been submitted to the Cimarron Metropolitan District ("District"). Such proposed amended budget will be considered at a meeting and public hearing of the Boards of Directors of the Districts to be held in person at Candelas Parkview Swim & Fitness Club, 19865 W 94th Ave, Arvada, CO 80007 and via telephone

and videoconference at 3:30 p.m. on June 18, 2024. To attend and participate by telephone, dial 1-720-547-5281 and enter passcode 675 025 79#. Information regarding public participation by videoconference will be available at least 24 hours prior to the meeting and public hearing online at www.candelascommunity.com.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that copies of the proposed amended 2023 budget, if required, are available for public inspection at the offices of CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, 8390 East Crescent Parkway, Suite 300, Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111. Please contact Gigi Pangindian by email at Gigi.Pangindian@claconnect.com or by elephone at 303-799-5710 to make arrangements to inspect the proposed amended budget prior to visiting the foregoing office. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to final adoption of the amended 2023 budget, if required, file or register any objections thereto.

CIMARRON METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

By: /s/ Brian Mulvany, President

Legal Notice No. 418596

First Publication: June 13, 2024

Last Publication: June 13, 2024

Publisher: Golden Transcript Jeffco Transcript and the Arvada Press

Bids and Settlements

Public Notice

NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT

Notice is hereby given that disbursements in final settlement will be issued by the Finance Director at 10:00 a.m., June 25, 2024 to Insituform Technologies, LLC for work related to Project No. 23-SR-02 -CIPP Trenchless Sewer Main Replacement Project and performed under that contract dated January 25, 2024 for the City of Arvada.

Any person, co-partnership, association of persons, company or corporation that furnished labor, material, drayage, sustenance, provisions or other supplies used or consumed by said contractor or his sub-contractors in or about the performance of the work contracted to be done by said Insituform Technologies, LLC and its claim has not been paid, may at any time on or prior to the hour of the date above stated, file with the Finance Director of the City of