CVCRApr24

Kelly Fordyce Martindale

Apocalyptic predictions and catastrophic climate events trigger fear and panic in many people around the globe. Unexpected flooding in Dubai, war in Gaza and other countries, meteors headed toward earth, even the April total eclipse cause some to shutter their windows and barricade their doors. Others unswervingly prep for end times.

People react differently but often with the fight or flight, freeze or fawn responses depending on their perceived threat to survival. Conversations regularly include the state of the world.

What’s happening? Is it end times? How’s it going to present itself? rough a global war or an asteroid? Should we plan for an apocalypse or day of reckoning?

People around the world are preparing for the April 8, 2024, total eclipse of the sun. In fact, millions have already planned their day around this event that lasts a mere 4 minutes and 28.13 seconds.

Whole families are traveling from places around the world to witness thisshort-but-extraordinary occurrence. Reports state that certain cities in Texas are the best viewing locations in the U.S., although the path of totality runs through many states and several countries. Texas expects over a million new travelers (not residents), but project upwards of 3 million visitors for the April 8, total solar eclipse.

Many travelers are astronomers and scientists; however, the vast majority are more than likely curious. ey may fear missing out (FOMO). Receive notoriety

having been there. Others may be representative of the people clambering to the tops of the skyscrapers in the movie Independence Day. ey’re excited at the possibility of meeting extraterrestrials and view their situation as a big party, not the judgment day it’ll soon become.

Obviously, this solar eclipse isn’t bringing aliens from another planet. But what’s the huge pull with this eclipse? Apparently, witnessing an 100% solar eclipse can be quite an emotional, tearful event.

Dacono resident, Robert Logan said, “With the sun directly overhead, you notice a strong, cold wind from out of nowhere. Day becomes night in 30 seconds. e crickets start chirping and the stars come out,” he said. Logan was in the path of totality during the August 21, 2017 Eclipse. “ ere’s no better way to experience the reality of us oating through space on a big wet rock, than to place yourself in the center of the moon’s shadow.” Logan drove to Nebraska and parked just south of Alliance.

Viewers can experience a full array of celestial spectacles, the awe-inspiring ‘diamond ring’ (above), even fear that the sun may never shine again as darkness pervades. Something huge is happening when millions are lured to a speci c destination.

Perhaps the attraction is coming from God Himself. “And when you look up to the sky and see the sun, the moon and the stars— all the heavenly array—do not be enticed into bowing down to them and worshiping things the Lord your God has apportioned to all the nations under heaven.” Deuteronomy 4:19 (NIV) Maybe God is sorting out those

who worship Him from those who irt with or love the darkness.

Great danger can come from the shadows. We used to play a game at nighttime on camping trips. The goal was to remain hidden in the shadows, outside the light of the campfire, and be the last one found. It was scary enveloped by the darkness on moonless nights. There’s a much more pervasive darkness found outside the light of Christ.

That darkness distracts, entices, distorts truth, and is evil. Some distractions are movies we watch like Independence Day, Zombieland, the Terminator and Halloween franchises. Hollywood produces these types of movies because they play on our fears. Though entertaining, they also add to our trepidation about the future and cause us to plead for the sun to come up after terrifying nightmares.

Emerging Arti cial Intelligence (AI) is fueling anxieties. Friend or foe takes on a new meaning. When the person on the other side of the door answers, how can we know if the voice is real or fake? Too many apocalyptic programs, articles, and news reports plant seeds of distrust, skepticism, and paranoia into our already-frightened minds.

The truth is no one can acquire enough weapons, medicine, supplies, or a strong enough fortress to protect from every type of enemy—human, animal, mother nature’s cataclysmic events, rampant viruses, or any other predator. Every day brings new threats against humanity. With all the perils on this planet, is it possible to have security?

How do we not panic at every strange sound or uninvited knock at the door?

“The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Psalm 118:6 (NIV)

When my focus stays on God, my worries diminish about family, money, and the future. It won’t matter if the sun ceases to shine, because I’m not afraid of darkness or death. I have con dence in my salvation, that I’ll live in heaven for eternity. I’ve already planned my exit strategy by giving my life to the Lord of heaven and earth.

For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks nds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Luke 11:10 (NIV) Jesus wants to protect us and give us security in all things and every situation. But He doesn’t force Himself on us.

By choosing Jesus, I don’t have to fret about huge astrological events, earthquakes, wars, or other things around the world. Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NIV) I’m betting my life on that.

Area Mayors’ Report—For those of us who do not attend meetings

FREDERICK MAYOR, TRACIE CRITES

 I’m eager to explore new and fun ways of connecting with our community and would greatly appreciate your input on how best to resume our regular meetups. Whether it’s a leisurely walk, a cozy teatime, or a virtual chat, I’m open to any suggestions! Feel free to share your ideas with me at Tcrites@FrederickCO.gov or on Facebook.

MEAD MAYOR, COLLEEN WHITLOW

 Responsible Growth: Town officials continue to work with the Colorado Department of Transportation on the I-25 segment five expansion from Mead to Berthoud. The project team is preparing the final design plans and expects construction work to begin in 2024. The project will bring interstate expansions supporting the rapidly growing communities along the I-25 corridor by implementing important safety and mobility features that will benefit the economy, environment, and quality of life.

Your input is invaluable to us!

 Volunteer Recognition Day is April 20, a perfect time to celebrate and thank the incredible individuals who generously dedicate their time and talents to enriching our community. Excitement is building for Frederick’s 2024 events—we’ll be kicking off with a Community Tour and Talk in Wyndham Hill on May 22 and taking to the skies in hot air balloons at Frederick in Flight June 21-23. We can’t wait to create more memorable moments together!

 Are you among the 1035 people who downloaded the Town of Frederick APP? This APP is not just for reporting non-emergency issues directly to the relevant department for swift action; it also offers easy access to utility bill payments, our monthly newsletter, weekly police reports, and so much more. It’s your one-stop app for staying connected with Frederick. Download the FrederickCO App for free today from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and take advantage of the

 Reliable Infrastructure: Mead is collaborating with Weld County and the Colorado Department of Transportation on High Plains Boulevard, a planned arterial road east of I-25. This initiative aims to provide commuters with an additional north-south pathway through a highly trafficked area in Northern Colorado. The first segment of the new multimodal road will extend WCR 9.5 from WCR 32 to WCR 34 east of Mead. Completion of this section is anticipated in December 2025.

 Public Safety: The Mead Police Department and Mead TBK Bank are hosting a free community shredding event on April 6 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Mead Town Hall. Residents are encouraged to get a jump start on spring cleaning by securely shredding sensitive documents and effectively minimizing identity theft risk. Document shredding will be conducted on-site using mobile shredding trucks and then recycled.

 Fiscal Stability: The Town of Mead received a substantial

opportunity to have all things Frederick in one place!

 April heralds our community spring cleaning initiative, a testament to our shared pride in Frederick. The Town offers a landfill voucher, electronic recycling, and tree limb disposal, all at no cost to our residents. For program hours and more details, visit our website at. https://www.frederickco.gov/235/Clean-Up-Days. Spring forward, Frederick, and take advantage of these opportunities!

 In response to your feedback, we’ve revamped our permitting process for greater efficiency and convenience. The Town launched a new public access portal designed to simplify the application and tracking of residential inspections and permits, all available online. Access the portal anytime, anywhere, 24/7! https://aca-prod.accela. com/FREDERICK/Default.aspx

 I continue to be in AWE of the many things we’re accomplishing in the Town of Frederick and I love being your Mayor!

$100,000 grant from the Energy/Mineral Impact Assistance Program to assist with the Land Use Code Update. The grant not only provides financial support but also supports our community’s vision and goals, allowing us to engage in comprehensive planning and updates that will benefit Mead for years.

 Connected Community: We’re excited to share the news about the upcoming Gold Star Families Memorial construction at Founders Park in Mead. This monument is a special dedication to honor the families of fallen servicemen and women who bravely sacrificed for our nation. Mead is honored to be the home of the second Gold Star Families Memorial in Colorado. We’re getting ready for spring and summer with some fantastic events, so stay up-to-date on events, projects, and news by subscribing to our monthly Mead Messenger and signing up for email notifications: www.townofmead.org/ newsletter/subscriptions. If you are new to Mead, check out the Resident Information page at bit.ly/47PocLg

Dacono Mayor posted a great message on his Facebook page www.facebook.com/adammoreheadcityofdaconomayor March 25, 2024. Would’ve been great to print here!

Food for the Soul: Emergency or False Alarm?

A couple of Sunday’s back, I spent 4 hours in the Emergency Room at a local hospital. Why? Some family members were justi ably concerned that I might be about to have a second stroke. Justi ed because my ability to walk seemed not to improve, and for a few days I had had several balance issues; most notable that morning at church when I spun around to step up on the platform and almost became part of it! I didn’t put up much fuss this time (versus the rst time) and went voluntarily.

Having noticed before that ER only takes you in quickly if you are bleeding on their oor or pregnant, I used my unused walker to enter, and I told them I might be about to repeat my May 21st stroke incident.

Got right in and was put into one of those backless ‘gowns’ everyone gets blessed with, and the rapt attention of nurses and aides and a doctor. Vein probing and blood drawn and a tube in my arm ‘in case’ and wait. While my wife and daughter played cards, personnel

came and went, taking my ‘vitals’ and a sonogram of both legs to hunt for blood clots and an MRI and who know what else. e doctor asked questions and wrote things down. And I waited. Seemed like a urry of activity followed by long periods of staring at the ceiling and being rolled down the hall for the MRI and back to the room again to wait some more.

When 4 hours later the doc returned with her reports, we were all ears. No trace of blood clots; blood work showed normal; the MRI revealed nothing abnormal. She prescribed a muscle relaxer for my evening leg spasms and sent me home, with an o er to keep me in the hospital for a couple nights if I liked, which I de nitely did not, and we drove o to dine on Italian food and call it a night. I had a graceful slow-motion fall stepping o the curb after dining- must have been the Italian dressing… went on home with no further incidents.

So, what does it all mean? In the greater scheme of things- not much. Hospital and pharmacy will make some money; family members and I are reassured there is no

immediate concern, and we ate well that evening. e muscle relaxer worked well that evening and my walking began to improve next day. All’s well that ends well, right? ey say that caution is the better part of valor, so we did the right thing.

Men are often especially reluctant to go to doctors or hospitals- they can ‘tough it out’, or so they think. I’m glad we have competent medical personnel when needed, and I’m also very glad to have a personal relationship with the God of the universe, for He alone knows my expiration date, and it is comforting to have that nal direction already determined when my time comes.

What about YOU? Your number could be called at any time no matter your age or physical condition. We read or hear every day of ‘accidents’ that happen to people of every group. No one but the Lord knows the future, so it is good to have your ‘ticket to Heaven’ certi ed before you need it. ose who put it o till tomorrow must someday realize that tomorrow NEVER comes; only today. And Scripture tells us, “Today, if you hear My voice, do not

harden your heart.” Sure, it is a human writing this report, but you can have it on good authority (the Word of God) that God loves you and wants relationship with you right now. He paid an enormous price to rescue you and claim you for Himself, to be with Him in Heaven when you expire here. Not from your own righteousness, but that of the Lord Jesus Christ. I recommend you call on Him today and know the joy of the Lord all the days of your earthly life, and then eternity with God in Heaven. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Jim pastors at Abundant Life Church, 4380 Highway 66, just .3 mile east of I25 on the south side. “It’s all about the love” in this church family, so bring yours and experience that fact at 10:00 am each Sunday.

Area Churches

Abundant Life Church | Pastor Jim Coleman 4380 CO-66 | Longmont 80504 970.535.0311 | www.alcworshipwarriors.org

New Horizons Christian Church 701 Carbondale St. | Dacono Pastor Rob Thomas 303.833.3013 | www. NHCC.LIFE

St. Brigit Episcopal Church 110 Johnson Street | Frederick 720.208.0280 | www.stbrigit.org

L.I.F.E. Fellowship Frederick 451 Oak Street | Frederick Pastor Brady Thornton 303.304.1159 | www.lifefrederick.org

Rocky Mountain Christian Church 5860 Majestic Street | Frederick Pastor Matt Cote 303.652.2211 | www.rmcc.org

Carbon Valley Church of Christ Thunder Valley K-8 in Frederick Pastor Clayton Johnson

720.438.5430 | www.carbonvalley.church

RINN United Methodist Church Rev. Lin Cheek, Pastor 3783 Bella Rosa Pkwy | Frederick 303.776.1578 | www.rinnumc.org

Destiny Church | Pastor Rob Rocca 307 S Fulton Avenue | Ft Lupton www.yourdestinychurch.org

Frontier Church-Carbon Valley 701 Carbondale St. | Dacono Pastor Steve Osborn

720.418.8400 | www.frontierchurchcv.org

St. Theresa Catholic Church 5503 Bella Rosa Pkwy | Longmont

Father Hernan Florez Albarracin

303.833.2966 | https://www.sttheresafred.org/

Calvary Chapel Carbon Valley Thunder Valley K-8 | Saturdays 6pm

Pastor Joe Kitto 720.201.3337 | www.calvarycarbonvalley.church

Flatirons Church | Pastor Jim Burgen 355 W South Boulder Rd | Lafayette 303.664.5524 | www.flatironschurch.com

White Fields Community Church 2950 Colorful Ave. | Longmont

Pastor Nick Cady 303.775.3485 | www.whitefieldschurch.com

Carbon Valley Lutheran Church 10916 Cimarron St (behind Ziggis) | Firestone 720.745.8590 | www.carbonchurch.com

Tri Town Baptist Church 420 Johnson Street | Frederick 303-833-2826 | www.tritownbaptist.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church 650 S. Park Ave. | Ft. Lupton, CO. 80621 303-857-6827 | www.mtcalvaryluth.org

Purpose Church | Pastor Brian Thompson 9993 Cty Rd 11 | Firestone 303.651.1640 | www.purpose.church

Guardian Angels Catholic Church 109 S. 3rd St. | Mead Rev. Ronald Cattany, KHS 970.535.0721 | www.meadangels.org

Should I Use a Weight Loss Drug?

Have you seen the recent bombardment commercials on TV announcing new drugs for weight loss? Many of these drugs had a history rst as a diabetes drug. Now they are capitalizing on the weight loss side e ect of that drug. Except for very extreme situations, I would seriously consider making an honest attempt at lifestyle changes rst. I’m sure the people taking these drugs have said or tried over and over to lose weight and are exasperated. Our bodies are designed to heal itself. Most medical doctors don’t have the education to talk about lifestyle, nor do they prescribe seeing a coach. Instead, it’s suggested to take a pharmaceutical…and all pharmaceuticals come at a cost – nancially, mentally, and physically.

Transforming your lifestyle sounds easy but it’s not. You will most likely need help. Transforming your health has so many bene ts other than weight loss. Some of the key points here came from a recent article in the AARP magazine. Here are some questions you should ask yourself before you start with a weight-loss drug.

Am I willing to stay on this for life? In studies, participants regained two-thirds of the weight they had lost on the medication after just one year of no longer taking that medication. Taking a drug for quick weight loss without addressing the underlying problem, isn’t a x. It’s a short-term patch and since you haven’t modi ed your lifestyle at all, you are most likely apt to gain the lost weight back and more is high.

Is it worth the potential risk? ere are so many side e ects of taking these drugs. Mild side e ects include nausea, diarrhea, migraines, constipation, etc. Severe side e ects include organ failure (kidney, liver, pancreas) to a variety of tumors and cancers. And since some of these drugs are new on the market for weight loss, we are only just beginning to understand the real impact. You’ll lose weight but there is a high probability it will have an impact on the “inside” of your body.

Is my mental state solid? Make sure to tell your doctor if you have a history of depression or suicidal thoughts. Data shows a worsening in these mental states.

Do I have access to ongoing care? Many folks get these meds online and then have no support with dosages. is can be very dangerous!

Am I prepared for the nancial investment? At up to $1,500 a month, some medications are pricey, and currently, Medicare and most insurances will not cover weight loss drugs.

I do understand that as humans we are wired for quick xes despite the fact that we didn’t get to where we are quickly. As a Health & Wellness coach, for much less than $1,500 a month, I help people with lifestyle changes leading to transformation. When we change our core beliefs, our daily habits, and our mental state of mind, we get so much more from life and ourselves than weight loss. If you are struggling with losing weight, I would love to chat with you. I o er free consultations!

Lida Johnson, Certified Health & Wellness Coach, Certified Nutritionist, and Personal Trainer. www. HeadToToeCoaching.com or Lida@HeadToToeCoaching.com 203.260.2880.

FREE Birthday Announcements. Send one high resolution photo w/ “birthday” typed in subject line to carbonvalley@gmail.com by 15th of each month.

Happy 10th Birthday Nikko!! Can’t believing you’re hitting double digits this year.

Hope you have the best birthday!!

Happy Birthday Daddy! We love you so much and hope you have a great day. Love Liam, Aden and Tarah.

Happy #11 Bode

We are so proud of the person you are becoming. We love watching you grow and experience the world around you. You are kind and giving and the world is better with you it!

❤ Mom, Dad, & Addie

Happy Birthday Liam! You are the sweetest 4 year old. We wish you a day filled with adventure, laughter, and excitement. Love Mom, Dad, and Aden.

Improving Posture

Poor posture can happen over time and you may not know you’re starting to slouch or have a protruding head. Some causes of poor posture are regular activities in our daily lives, especially when prolonged and done repetitively every day.

ese can include staring at a computer screen or driving for many hours, sitting in the wrong chairs, looking down at a cell phone or tablet, carrying a bag on the same shoulder, carrying small children on the same side, and standing for long periods of time.

Poor posture with slouched shoulders lead to overstretched upper back muscles and tight chest muscles. Your best defense against poor posture, back/neck pain, and injury is a strong upper body that includes strengthening your core/back muscles and stretching.

Most people with poor posture will start to experience neck and back pain in time. My Corrective Exercise Programs made just for you will help to correct old habits and injuries to assist your body in functioning better overall.

e good news is that the main factors a ecting posture can change with work. Here are some quick stretches and strengthening exercises to work on: head retraction, pectoral stretch, lengthening your spine by imagining you’re pulling up on a string coming out the top of your head, take a break from sitting for long periods of time by standing/stretching, walking, swimming, bicycling, strength training, balance, and exibility training will all help support good posture.

Do you need help with your posture? Join my tness group classes or check out my Mobile Personal Training where I come to you. Tracy Rewerts, NASM Certi ed Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist at 303-828-2856 or visit TimeForChangePersonalTraining.com for more details.

Feeling run down? Struggling with fatigue or a decline in cellular health?

At Carbon Valley Integrative erapies, we’re excited to o er NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), a cutting-edge therapy with the potential to revitalize your health from within.

NAD+: e Body’s Fuel Gauge

NAD+ is a naturally occurring molecule found in every cell of your body. It plays a crucial role in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and overall cellular health. As we age, NAD+ levels decline. is decrease can contribute to a variety of agerelated concerns, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and impaired cognitive function.

Unlocking NAD+ Potential

indicate NAD+ therapy may improve muscle strength and endurance.

• Overall Wellbeing: By addressing cellular health at its foundation, NAD+ therapy may contribute to a more vibrant and youthful feeling.

NAD+ therapy aims to replenish NAD+ levels in the body. At Carbon Valley Integrative erapies, we o er personalized NAD+ protocols tailored to your speci c needs. We may utilize intramuscular (IM) injections or intravenous (IV) infusions to ensure optimal absorption by your cells.

Potential Bene ts of NAD+ erapy

• Enhanced Energy Levels: By promoting cellular energy production, NAD+ may help combat fatigue and improve stamina.

• Cellular Rejuvenation: NAD+ plays a vital role in DNA repair, potentially supporting healthy cellular aging.

• Cognitive Boost: Research suggests NAD+ may enhance cognitive function and memory.

• Muscle Support: Studies

A Holistic Approach to Well-being

At Carbon Valley Integrative erapies, we believe in a comprehensive approach to health. We will work with you to understand your unique needs and develop a personalized NAD+ treatment plan that complements your existing wellness regimen. Our team of experienced practitioners can also recommend additional therapies, such as massage, Pilates, or PEMF, to further support your journey towards optimal health.

Ready to Explore NAD+?

If you’re interested in learning more about how NAD+ therapy can bene t you, contact Carbon Valley Integrative erapies today. We’ll schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and determine if NAD+ is the right t for your wellness journey.

Embrace the potential for a more revitalized you!

Contact Carbon Valley Integrative Therapies today!

Stacy Flaherty is an independent contractor with

Rocky Mountain IV Medics.

(970) 568-6860

cvintegrativetherapies@gmail.com

https://www.cvintegrativetherapies.com/

Annual Spring Plant Sale May 11

2024 Weld County Fair Seeks Vendors And Food Truck Operators!

Calling all sellers of food and beverage, western wear, arts, and unique craft items.

For more than 100 years, the Weld County Fair, held annually in July, has celebrated the rich agricultural history and heritage of the county. 4-H, FFA, and community members have a chance to showcase their talents through livestock shows and open class exhibits and competitions. A wide variety of community-focused events and activities bring more than 20,000 visitors to the fair yearly. Weld County Fair Coordinator Mikayla Gabel believes vendors play a unique and pivotal role in making the fair special and successful.

“ e Fair aims to cater to many interests each year and our vendors and food truck operators have an opportunity to create a truly memorable experience for Fairgoers. Whether you have been a vendor at the fair for years or want to participate for the rst time or be a food truck operator at one of our special events, you’ll want to be a part of this legacy.”

New this year is the opportunity to bring your food truck to one of the added special events at the Stampede Arena.

Vendors and food trucks interested in registering for the 10-day event or for one or more of the fair’s special events can nd information and the application at https://www. weldcountyfair.com/Get-Involved/Vendors

e deadline to apply to be a vendor or food truck operator at one of our special fair events is May 5, 2024. To learn more about the Weld County Fair, visit https://www.weldcountyfair.com

Do you need help paying your utilities this winter?

Assistance Program or LEAP may be for you. LEAP helps Colorado

individuals, older adults and those with a disability to pay a part of their winter home heating costs.

Under the Big Top Casino Night

Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy is hosting their annual fundraising gala on April 12th at the Aims Welcome Center Ballroom! Dress in your best cocktail attire for a night of nonstop fun!

Under e Big Top will feature 5 di erent casino games, a live and silent auction, plated dinner and dessert, and plenty of live entertainment! e event will host 450 attendees. Each ticket includes dinner and dessert, an open bar (while supplies last), and $200 in casino money. A VIP upgrade is o ered for an additional entrée choice, held seat at the participants chosen casino table, and an additional $200 of casino money!

“Join us under the big top for a night of fun, philanthropy, and unforgettable memories” Verniece omas, gala co-chair.

Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy is a nonpro t agency that provides victim services to child victims of sexual assault, child abuse, and children who have witnessed a violent crime. Proceeds from the fundraiser will bene t both the CASA and Child Advocacy Center, housed under the same umbrella at Life Stories. (970) 353-5970 or www.lifestoriesweld.org

New Local Owned Station Radio833

A new radio station has started. Radio 833, Carbon Valley’s own playing the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Listen now at www.Radio833.com

23rd Annual Chamber Open Golf Tournament

Back at Saddleback for our annual Chamber Open! We couldn’t be more excited to be back in the community for the summers most exciting golf tournament. New games. New hole activities. e same great fun! Early Bird pricing is now open and we’ve already got a few sponsorships spoken for - if you like to be ahead of the game, send an email to info@carbonvalleychamber.com to register or con rm your sponsorship.

Caregiving 201: Respite Care

Caregiving is not easy. Not for the caregiver or the care recipient. It can be both physically and emotionally draining and statistically, the lifespan of the caregiver is often shortened by the rigor and emotional toll of their responsibilities.

at’s why it is so important to take a break from caregiving duties to rest, travel, or nd other things to ll your cup. It can be bene cial for the care recipient as well, and can oftentimes go a long way towards preserving your relationship.

Respite care provides short-term relief for primary caregivers. Respite can last from several hours to several weeks over the course of time, and can take place at home or in a senior community. Respite occurs when someone steps in to take over the duties of the caregiver so he/she can get a much needed break.

For those who are caregiving at home, engaging the help of other family members or friends of the care recipient to come over and help with preparing a meal, having lunch, engaging in conversation, or just keeping them company can be bene cial. If you have a willing family member who could come for a longer stretch of time, even better.

Local Home Care companies that provide non-medical home care are also an option. Keep in mind that they typically have an hourly and a weekly minimum, that can be well worth it to preserve the health and well-being of the caregiver.

Lastly, many senior communities (independent & assisted living or memory care communities) also offer respite care. For a daily rate, that includes a furnished apartment, daily meals and care, this can offer the caregiver the opportunity to take a trip, have a necessary procedure, or just get an extended break. Respite care is based on occupancy at most senior communities, so call in advance to inquire. This is something a senior advisor, like myself, can help with.

Lindsay Adams is a local senior advisor. She can be reached at (303) 775-6312.

Canceling Mortgage PMI

Did you purchase or re nance your home with less than 20% down? If so, you likely have Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) if it was a conventional loan. Often times people forget about this as it is included in your monthly payment, but you may be able to get the PMI cancelled and reduce your mortgage payment.

Every loan is di erent, so you need to check with your mortgage company for exact details, but here are some general thoughts. e PMI may be automatically terminated by the lender once the loan reaches 78% of the original value of the property based on the amortization schedule. You received a copy of the amortization schedule when you got the loan showing the breakdown of principal and interest of each payment as well as the loan balance. As you may remember, most of the early payments of a loan are for interest, so the loan balance goes down very slowly during the rst several years of the loan. So, if you borrowed $400,000, this wouldn’t take place until the balance got down to $312,000, which will take several years.

e quicker way that you might be able to get rid of paying the PMI is to request it based on the current market value of your property. Again, each loan is di erent, and lenders have their own speci c guidelines for accomplishing this, so you de nitely need to contact your lender for the speci cs. Basically, this means showing that the current loan balance is less than 80% of the current value of your home.

In the example above, if you paid $440,000 for the home, and had a loan of $400,000, rather than waiting for the loan balance to go down to $312,000, you could apply for the termination of the PMI if the property value is above $500,000. To calculate this on your home, take your loan balance and divide that by 0.80 (400,000/0.80 = 500,000).

With the way property values have increased over the last 3-4 years, your home may have gone up enough in value to eliminate the PMI in this manner. You will likely have to pay for an appraisal of the home to verify the value to the lender, but this way you may be able to eliminate the PMI without re nancing. at way you can keep your current interest rate which may be lower than the current market rates.

Greg Zadel: 2011 Realtor of the Year, Colorado Association of Realtors | 2008 President, Colorado Association of Realtors | Zadel Realty | Call or Text 303-550-5817 | Firestone | greg@zadelrealty.com | www.zadelrealty.com

Senior Seller and Downsizing Seminars Offered to CV Community

e Jenny Hart Team with Keller Williams 1st

Realty announces a series of seminars designed to assist seniors with the process of selling their home and transitioning to a more manageable living space.

2024 Seminar Dates: April 17 July 17 November 12

Each seminar will take place from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at the United Power Training Center, 9586 E. I-25 Frontage Rd. B, Firestone, CO 80504. Refreshments will be provided. ese seminars are a beacon of guidance for seniors contemplating a shift to a simpler, more comfortable lifestyle. Experts, including Jenny Hart, a realtor specializing in senior downsizing, Lindsay Adams from Assisted Living Locators, and Angelina Lafave with Edge Home Finance, will provide valuable insights and resources. Attendees can expect to learn about: Strategies for decluttering and selling possessions | Home improvements to increase market value Local senior communities & amenities | Financial planning for Medicaid spend down &reverse mortgages is is a no-sales-pitch presentation. We are here to answer critical questions and provide support to those entering their golden years. To participate, please RSVP at least one week prior to the event by calling 970.518.7019 or by emailing TheJennyHartTeam@gmail.com information, visit www.JennyHartRealtor.com or contact us directly at HartRealty@gmail.com

5th

As we welcome April and spring, we want to welcome our new families that joined Firestone Freethinkers this year!

Recap of events:

* February was a calm month

26th-28th Goat extravaganza in Greeley

If you have questions about 4H please reach out to Rachael Smith at 4rachael.smith@ gmail.com or Danielle Lammers at lammers4H22@gmail.com

We hope you all have a wonderful spring. Firestone Freethinkers 4H Club. (Kenzie Lammers, reporter)

2024 United Power Director Election

Balloting in United Power’s 2024 Director Election is open. Members of the cooperative have the option to cast their ballots electronically through their online account or via paper ballot, mailed to members on Friday, March 15. Electronic and mail ballots must be received by 11:59 a.m. on April 16. Members may also vote in person at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on April 17.

United Power encourages all members to cast their votes in the annual Director Election. Voting allows members to have a voice in their board representation and helps the cooperative better serve its members. Members can log into their online account or the United Power mobile app to cast an electronic ballot. Click the “Vote Now” button to access the ballot. Mail ballots should be returned via the postage-paid envelope included in the ballot package.

Four positions on United Power’s Board are up for election this year – one seat in the Mountain, North, Central, and South Districts. e director candidates are Stephen Whiteside (incumbent) in the Mountain District; Brian A. McCormick (incumbent) in the North District; Tim Erickson (incumbent) and Paige WagnerMaul in the Central District; and Brad Case (incumbent) in the South District. Candidate statements are available online.

Directors represent all members and are elected on an “at-large” basis. is means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. Directors serve in geographic districts to ensure United Power’s Board adequately represents members throughout the service territory and provides accessibility to cooperative leadership.

A bylaw amendment is included on this year’s ballot regarding the length of a director’s term. Members will be asked whether director terms should be lengthened from three years to four years.

Director Election and bylaw amendment results will be announced at the 2024 Annual Meeting, held at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton on April 17.

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meeting opens at 4:30