CVCRAug2023

Spectacular Events at Anderson Farms 2023!

Jennifer Greenwood, Landscape Manager, Anderson Farms Anderson Farms is a 250 acre farm that has been serving and entertaining families for over 25 years. Our farm hosts two spectacular events, U-pick Sunflowers, now through August 26th, and our Fall Festival including Colorado’s #1 haunt, Terror in the Corn, September 20th - October 30th! We offer all our guests, both young and old, a warm, family friendly, magical experience!

Our first event, U-Pick Sunflowers, is a 15 acre sunflower patch, exploding with vibrant colors of over 20 varieties of sunflowers, wildflowers, and exquisite annuals to cut and arrange the perfect bouquet. This year we are offering several creative activities such as: pickand-paint classes, a bouquet making class, and have prepared private campfires which are immersed in our sunflower forest.

Let’s also not forget to mention a special weekend scheduled for horse drawn carriage rides and pictures with live, fanciful unicorns! The sunflower patch also presents itself as an excellent location for fun family photo shoots, team building opportunities, date nights, or an evening out with the girls.

Do note, our hours

farm is filled with entertaining activities for a wholesome

These activities include jump pads, corn maze, Kiddie Korral playground, paintball gallery, shopping in the general store, and a tractor ride under the leafy autumn

canopy to the pumpkin patch to pick your perfect pumpkin.

Hungry? If you or your crew get hungry, there’s a wide variety of food choices from either our farm concession stand or our new Food Truck Row! There you will find pizza, sausage on a stick, BBQ, funnel cakes, taco. Order up!

Now, if you’re looking to entertain a reunion, party, or an outing, renting a pavilion and/or a private campfire makes for a cozy gathering spot.

Last, but surely not least, we usher you into our enjoyable yet terrifying and award winning haunt, Terror in the Corn! Prepare to be scared!

Tickets can be purchased at www. andersonfarms.com and www.terrorinthecorn. com . Our friendly staff looks forward to serving you, and helping you create priceless memories with an exciting family fun experience for all at Anderson Farms.

Readers of this publication are caring, concerned people who strive to help their neighbors and community. Over the years, readers have supported many families in crisis and need.

Through the Consumer Report, you’ve helped a woman needing brain surgery, you’ve helped the Shalom Bikes Team in several ways with their Race Across the West endeavor, you’ve even helped Malcolm, a local pet, get surgery on his hip/leg.

As owner of this publication, I’m humbled by your giving spirits and grateful for your readership and support.

Most recently, I received a note from Austin Kearney, a project manager for Cillessen Construction. Austin’s crew has repaired many residential roofs since the May 9, hailstorms. This year after helping one of his clients, that client reached back out to Austin. They said they wanted to pay for a homeowner’s roof anonymously! They have no connection to each other, but the client says, “We love the Frederick/Firestone community, and we want to help a family and pay it forward.”

The client chose a Carbon Valley home needing much TLC. For many years, the home’s roof, basically destroyed, has had different tarps and sealants on the roof to stop leaks.

Blown away by the generous offer, Austin relayed the story to Heath Cillessen, his boss and owner of Cillessen Construction.

The two men brainstormed with the client providing the gift, and together, they’re working to provide a brand-new roof for this Carbon Valley household.

Austin spoke with the homeowner, and while hesitant at first, they ended up very emotional and couldn’t believe this was happening for them. The new roof is scheduled for an August completion. May God bless each one involved in this gracious gesture to help a neighbor.

If you’re involved with a group who helps others with yard care and handyman work, perhaps you’d like to add your expertise to this endeavor. For more info on this community service project please contact Austin at 720.438.5274. You can find more about Cillessen Construction at www.facebook.com/CillessenConstructionCO

We’ll follow up on this precious gift in the September issue.

Isn’t it a fabulous story?! The Carbon Valley is a wonderful area to live. People care about their neighbors. In fact, I believe Weld County, Colorado has some of the most kind, compassionate, and loving citizens in our state. I’ve lived here half my life and I can’t imagine living anywhere else.

Do you have a story about someone doing an extraordiary action? Call or email me. It’s my pleasure to give a SHOUT OUT to those special individuals.

Need prayer? I can do that!

Are you a business owner needing to get the word out about your services and products? I write feature stories about our locally owned, independent, and home-based businesses. www.facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport

Serving SW Weld County: Firestone, Frederick, Dacono, E. Erie, E. Longmont & Mead!

The ONLY Colorado publication to reach Consumers in our area every month via print and many social

The Race is On! Gratitude to Supporters

Team Shalom Bikes is grateful to share that supporters raised the needed funds for the Race Across the West registrations fees. Angel and Carlitos are thankful for your interest and continued support of this 930-mile endeavor.

The actual race takes place next June 2024. By that time, the team will have ridden thousands of miles in preparation for the endurance competition, including training in the jungles and mountains of Peru. Can you imagine?

The Consumer Report will keep readers updated, monthly in print and on our social media platforms.

Team Shalom Bikes need sponsorship support, so if you are a business who’d like some free exposure, consider sponsoring this Carbon Valley team.

For more info or bike repairs, check out Shalom’s Mobile Bike Shop at 303.833.4160 or search shalombikes on Facebook.

For a full story see www. issuu.com/ home/published/ cvcrjuly23

Keeping Up with Home Improvements

Being a homeowner is one of the most rewarding parts of life, but it is also a large undertaking. From the day you move in to the day you sell your home, there will always be something that will need to be maintained, repaired or remodeled. You may want to undertake some changes simply to elevate your comfort level – like remodeling your primary bathroom – or to spruce up the home’s aesthetics, such as adding an outdoor kitchen or a water feature.

But other work will need to be done to maintain the property and minimize problems later on. These may include replacing, or repairing your roof, fixing broken windows, and repairing leaky pipes or correcting poor drainage. These are all necessities. Left undone, they can lead to major problems and damages to the home.

If you decide one day to sell, other improvements may have to be made to increase the home’s value and appeal to potential buyers. Take care of the “honey do’s” as you go so that you don’t have a huge list to do when you are under the stress of the move. Most every contract will be contingent upon a Buyer’s inspection, so the fewer items that are left unrepaired, the smother the transaction is likely to go.

From the very beginning, get in the habit of taking a good look around your home, at least once every year, of every nook and cranny of your home to check for potential problems. Examine the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical wiring – basically everything. Try to fix trouble spots as soon as you uncover them. This proactive approach will help you avoid larger expenses later on, so leave no stone unturned.

You may expect to spend one percent of the purchase price of your home every year to handle a myriad of tasks, including painting, tree trimming, repairing gutters, caulking windows, and routine system repairs and maintenance. An older home will usually require more maintenance, although a lot will depend on how well it has been maintained over the years.

Tell yourself that the upkeep of your home is mandatory, and budget accordingly. Otherwise, your home’s value will suffer if you allow it to fall into a state of disrepair. Remember, there is usually a direct link between a property’s condition and its market value: The better its condition, the more a buyer will likely pay for it down the road.

Adopt the attitude that the cost of good home maintenance is usually minor compared to what it will cost to remedy a situation that you allowed to get out of hand. For example, unclogging and sealing gutters may cost a few hundred dollars. But repairing damage to a corner of your home where gutters have leaked can potentially cost several thousands of dollars.

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

$16.99 $16.99

Toro Company Comes to Town of Frederick

The Toro Company, a leading provider of solutions for the outdoor environment, recently announced that it is relocating its robotics technology team in Longmont to a new facility that it will lease in the Town of Frederick. The newly constructed 28,000 square foot facility will provide added space to support future growth and is expected to bring additional employment opportunities.

Toro acquired Longmont-based Left Hand Robotics in 2021 to help accelerate the development of autonomous technologies for turf care equipment. Toro introduced its first robotic mower for the homeowner market in 2022 and began field testing its GeoLink Autonomous Fairway Mower to help golf courses alleviate the issues of labor shortages and budget constraints.

“Customer and environmental needs drive our innovation priorities with a focus on battery, autonomous and smart-connected solutions,” said John Hurst, senior director for The Toro Company’s Center for Technology, Research and Innovation. “This investment in the Frederick facility expands our operational capacity, enables us to add talent and further supports our efforts to provide innovative solutions to our global customers....”

“This project exemplifies the essence of Community & Economic Vitality in the Town’s Strategic Plan,” said Tracie Crites, Town of Frederick Mayor. “Together we are shaping a thriving future for our community, one that promises limitless potential.”

See Mayor Crite’s full quote in Mayor’s Report on page 4

Trimming, Planting

Letter to the Editor:

The mayor and his hand picked city council wasted no time in seizing control of the city. At the very first meeting after the election they rehired Kathleen Kelly the former city attorney that resigned after the city manager was dismissed. This is the same city attorney that gave misguided incorrect information that the mayor used in his recall campaign.

The Kelly Memo references alleged misconduct by certain Councilmembers, including violations of the City of Dacono Council Rules of Procedure (the “Council Rules”), and was issued pursuant to Section 8.1 of the Council Rules, which requires the Dacono City Attorney to issue a recommendation following alleged violations of the Council Rules. Unfortunately, the Kelly Memo contains fatal errors regarding the process for addressing alleged misconduct, and, specifically, proposes an undemocratic and illegal forced recusal of a block of Councilmembers.

Then the next step in seizing control was the appointment of Jennifer Krieger as interim city manager for a salary of $195,570.00 annually. with Dacono’s current population of 6487 every man woman and child in Dacono will be paying $30.15 every year just to pay her salary. That salary along with her husbands salary of $210,000.00 as the city manager of Firestone gives their household a comfortable salary of $405,570.00 annually. Residents of Firestone you are going to have to step up and increase A.J. Krieger’s salary. With Firestone’s population of 17,299 you are only paying $12.14 for every citizen of Firestone to pay A.J.Krieger’s salary. If you want to keep up with Dacono and pay an equal amount per person you would have to pay him $521,564.85 annually. Bet he is going to ask for a raise!

I am sure there will be no conflict of interest between the two city managers talking over city planning between Firestone and Dacono at the breakfast table. I wonder if they have another relative that can become Frederick’s city manager.

Jim Turini, Dacono

Editors Note: All LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are from those whose names are posted. They do not reflect an endorsement for or against the subject(s).

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

z The wetter than usual spring has given us a much needed relief in our water bills. There is more we can do to conserve water. One of the largest waste of water is sprinklers watering sidewalks and streets. Another impact is watering in the hottest times of the day. Scheduling for evenings and mornings can reduce the amount needed to irrigate and maintain a healthy lawn.

Please give them a brake.

z The annual Fourth at Firestone was a great success. The fireworks were the highlight. Thank you to all those that worked hard to make it a great event.

z Hello Neighbors it is the dog days of summer however there’s lots to do in town. I encourage folks to enjoy movies in the park on Friday evenings with Food and Flicks.

z Public works has been busy doing streets and road resurfacing. Soon work will start on repaving Firestone Blvd between Birch and Cameron.

z Progress continues on the new Commuter Center at Firestone and I-25. Road crews will be working in and around the exit.

A future phase will feature a splash pad. Construction documents are being finalized, and we expect the community center to be completed by late 2024.

z The live video is up and running in the Firestone Board room. You can now watch live your Board and Staff in action as well as video recordings of the meetings.

z I encourage residents to join us at the board meetings or watch the video. Town works best when residents get involved.

z Drew Peterson, Mayor of Firestone Colorado

generated and each alleged violation is investigated to determine the best course of action.

z Responsible Growth: In 2022, the Board of Trustees voted to move forward with the final design and construction of the new community center. The new facility will fulfill the community’s desire for additional recreation opportunities. It will include a full-size gymnasium and multi-purpose program space.

FrederiCk Mayor, traCie Crites

z Happy August, Frederickians!

z Frederick is thriving with momentum, and we’re excited to share the latest developments with you! The Town is diligently working on introducing an innovative dashboard. This dynamic tool offers comprehensive, visually engaging real-time updates on the focus areas outlined in our strategic plan. The Strategic Plan Dashboard represents our commitment to providing detailed insights and promoting transparency. Through this platform, you will gain access to information about our objectives and the progress we’re making. Look for more details on the dashboard launch on our social media platforms. We want you to be among the first to explore this valuable resource.

z We believe in offering a variety of ways for residents to connect and get involved! Here are a few opportunities in August that we hope you’ll join us for.

z Be part of National Night Out and gather with your

z Reliable Infrastructure: Crews continue to work on the annual street maintenance program. The Street Improvement Fund webpage identifies current road maintenance projects and outlines expected revenue from the 1% sales and use tax revenues. This year, Town staff is completing improvements in downtown, North Creek, Hunters Ridge, and the business district.

z Public Safety: Code Enforcement is now under the Community Development Department. Code Enforcement works to educate the public on code matters and is committed to working with the community to enforce the Town’s codes and ordinances. The Code Enforcement Official’s caseload is primarily complaint

neighbors, law enforcement, elected officials, and staff on August 1 for a night out against crime! Together we can build a safer, more caring community! I look forward to touring through our hosted neighborhoods with Chief Norris. Thank you for being so supportive of our community.

z We are taking our next Tour & Talk to Rinn Valley Park, 3390 Rinn Valley Drive, on August 16. We hope you’ll join us for meaningful conversations, some fun in the park, and dinner on us!

z We love to get feedback from our residents, so we simply ask. Currently, we are asking for input on several projects, including establishing a vision for the downtown district, creating a plan for the Frederick Recreation Area, and letting us know how we’re doing with our Town events. Remember to share your instant feedback on our new App as well. Your voice matters! www.Frederick.gov/Listens

z The Town of Frederick, once again, received the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its budget. Congratulations TEAM! This award represents a significant achievement reflecting the commitment of the governing body and staff to meeting the highest nationally recognized principles of governmental budgeting. I am honored to be part of an organization committed to responsible stewardship and budgetary transparency. As we go into budget season, I strongly encourage residents to attend those Board meetings to gain insight into municipal budgeting and take advantage of the opportunity to share during Public Comment. Board meetings are also recorded and posted to the Town’s

z Fiscal Stability: The Board of Trustees has started preparing for the 2024 municipal budget. We’ve reviewed current project timelines and are developing next year’s goals. A public hearing will be scheduled for later this fall to review the proposal, and the final budget is typically adopted in December.

z Connected Community: Mead’s largest event, Community Day, will be hosted on September 9 at Mead Town Park. From 4-9:30, we’ll have live music, activities, food, vendors, cornhole, and fireworks! For more information visit: https:// bit.ly/2023MCD. Be sure to subscribe to our monthly Mead Messenger and email notifications: https://bit.ly/2St4Ye7. If you are new to Mead, check out our Resident Information webpage!

Youtube channel – conveniently accessed through our new Town APP or website. www.FrederickCO.gov/Agenda

z Congratulations and welcome to The Toro Company, a leading provider of solutions for the outdoor environment. Toro has recently announced that it is relocating its robotics technology team in Longmont to a new facility it will lease in the Town of Frederick. The newly constructed 28,000-square-foot facility will provide additional space to support future growth and will bring additional employment opportunities as early as 2023. Toro acquired Longmont-based Left Hand Robotics in 2021 to help accelerate the development of autonomous technologies for turf care equipment. Toro introduced its first robotic mower for the homeowner market in 2022 and began field testing its GeoLink Autonomous Fairway Mower to help golf courses alleviate the issues of labor shortages and budget constraints. (Yes, we asked them to help us out at Bella Rosa Golf Course). I truly believe that this project exemplifies the essence of Community & Economic Vitality in the Town’s Strategic Plan. By attracting highquality employers to the region, we are not only stimulating economic growth but also reaffirming Frederick’s position for innovative, cutting-edge opportunities that improve quality of life. Frederick has a growing community of advanced manufacturing that supports industries including aerospace, biosciences, and robotics. Together we are shaping a thriving future for our community, one that promises limitless potential. FrederickCO.gov/NewsReleases

z It is an honor to be your Mayor; thank you for the opportunity to serve our community!

Mead Mayor, Colleen WhitloW

Firestone Mayor, dreW Peterson

Rinn Cowboy Chris-an Fellowship at the

Boulder County Fair presents

Liza Jo

GIVE

Children & Parents Love Our:

•Teachers who nurture a love of learning!

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A blind artist, Liza Jo inspires audiences nation-wide with her ability to find strength and inspiration in the face of adversity while forging a powerful emotional connection through her music.

Cowboy Church at the Indoor Arena

Sunday, August 13th, 10:00 a.m.

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

Local Churches

Abundant Life Church 4380 CO-66 | Longmont 80504 970.535.0311

Pastor Jim Coleman www.alcworshipwarriors.org

New Horizons Christian Church 701 Carbondale St. | Dacono 303.833.3013

Pastor Rob Thomas

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

L.I.F.E. Fellowship Frederick 451 Oak Street | Frederick 303.304.1159

Pastor Brady Thornton www.lifefrederick.org

Event Calendar

☐New Cardio Walking Workout Class!

Ladies, If you like dancing and fun, join us for my New Group Fitness Class - Cardio Walking Workout on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Interval & Strength Training on Mondays, and CoreFirst Training on Fridays. See my website for times and Info. Also, check out my Mobile Personal Training where I come to you! Contact Tracy Rewerts, NASM Certified Personal Trainer & Corrective Exercise Specialist at https://TimeForChangePersonalTraining. com or call 303.828.2856.☐DJ Tax Service provides personal and business tax services nationwide based in Frederick, Colorado. In person and virtual services are provided. Please contact Donisha Joy at djoy@djtaxsvcs.com or 970.405.4256.

☐Meals on Wheels Job Offer is looking for a Satellite Program Manager for our Firestone office. The Satellite Program Manager is responsible for the day to day operations of our Firestone office. The Satellite Program Manager will evaluate clients, manage volunteer program, regulate routes, maintain limited kitchen, and maintain community relationships. 25 hours a week, Monday-Friday 8am-1pm. Paid time off, and paid holidays Email resume to info@MealsOnWheelsGreeley.com

☐Write His Answer Conference August 9-12, Register at www.writehisanswer.com

☐Platteville Lions BINGO

Sunday, August 20th, Doors open at 11:30 pm, Bingo at 1 pm, at Platteville Community Center at 508 Reynolds Avenue. $12 for all games, cash only. Proceed go to Valley Youth Wrestling Club and Boy Scouts selling concessions

☐Guardian Angels Church – Caring Hands Crafters Group at 109 South 3rd street Mead Colorado will be having their Annual Craft Fair on Oct. 28th Sat. 9 am to 7pm. And Sun. Oct 29th 8am to 2 pm. Our caring hands crafters group share their talents of making handmade items : Crocheted, knitted and sewn blankets, hats, scarfs and mittens to children and adults in need and help several nonprofit organizations. All varieties of needlework and crafts are made to benefit others. One example: we provide Weld County Social Services Child Protection with Bags of Love with much needed items for foster children. We welcome and hope you will join us on Oct. 28th and 29th.

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

RINN United Methodist Church 3783 Bella Rosa Pkwy | Frederick 303.776.1578 www.rinnumc.org

Destiny Church 307 S Fulton Avenue | Ft Lupton

Pastor Rob Rocca www.yourdestinychurch.org

Purpose Church 9993 Cty Rd 11 | Firestone 303.651.1640

Pastor Brian Thompson www.purpose.church

Carbon Valley Church 600 5th Street | Frederick 720.438.5430

Pastor Clayton Johnson www.carbonvalley.church

Calvary Carbon Valley 701 Fifth Street | Frederick 720.201.3337

Pastor Joe Kitto www.calvarycarbonvalley.church

2023 Teen Academy Success!

Earlier this summer, the Firestone Police Department hosted 24 teens from Firestone for a 4-day Teen Police Academy. Students had a packed few days learning about many aspects of a career in law enforcement and other safety service positions. Firestone School Resource Officers Dunker and Neugebauer coordinated the Teen Academy. A few highlights of the academy include:

-- SWAT Presentation

-- Rescue Demonstrations

-- Building Searches

-- K9 Presentation & Demonstration

-- Bomb Squad Presentation

-- Use of Force Continuum & Simulator

-- Drone Demonstration

-- Fire Department Presentation

We appreciate the support and participation from Frederick-Firestone Fire Protection District, Carbon Valley Emergency Management Agency, and Weld County Sheriff’s Office, including Weld County SWAT, Weld County K9, and the Weld County Bomb Squad. And a big thank you to the following Firestone restaurants for donating lunches to the participants last week: Jersey Mike’s, Marcos Pizza, Papa John’s, and Qdoba.

For those adults who want to participate in something similar, registration for the 2nd Annual Citizens’ Police Academy, a 10-week program that provides a handson learning experience for attendees designed to build a better understanding of law enforcement, will open soon! Classes will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. starting on Tuesday, September 12, and finishing with a graduation ceremony on Tuesday, November 14. www.firestoneco.gov/FormCenter/Police-6/Citizen-PoliceAcademy-Application-127

Meet the County Commissioner Who Dances* for Kids

The fear of public speaking consistently rates higher than the fear of death in modern polls. Comedian Jerry Seinfeld joked that for the average person, it’s better to lay in the casket at the funeral than to deliver the eulogy. My name is Lori Saine and I was in that camp until I worked with the Tri-Town Toastmasters. They helped me overcome my fear of public speaking and after years of practicing the craft, I give speeches on the fly and all over the country.

Recently, I had an opportunity to do something absolutely terrifying. I was tapped for a dance competition: on camera, in public, in six weeks. This competition was to raise funds for the Weld County Boys and Girls Club; and, after visiting Fort Lupton Clubhouse, I was blown away by the leadership and educational programs and extracurricular activities for kids after school and during the summer months. So I signed up for the Weld County Dancing with the Stars and spent a whirlwind of early mornings with A Dance Place.

I start with this story to delve into two questions I am often asked: “What does a County Commissioner do?” And, “Why does conservative leadership matter?”

More folks are familiar with the job description of a mayor or a town council member and may assume county commissioners have the same structure as a town board, or work mostly in the evenings. There are things in common, such as the responsibilities of budgeting and maintaining roads in their respective jurisdiction. We are also required to make policy for the county and legislate for land use among many other things. There are differences, such as, counties also serve citizens of every jurisdiction via our Human Services and Health Department and collect taxes for every entity you see on your property tax bill.

But leadership means more than punching a clock or solving problems; leadership provides a vision to best equip people and systems to serve the purpose of benefiting the human potential. Both the public and private sectors should be designed to provide products and/or services to benefit people. Since the government doesn’t take risks to earn money, it best serves the public by recognizing what the role of government is, working to stay within that role, and doing the most service with the least amount of cost to the taxpayer.

Government taxes, fees, and red tape can create a burden for citizens and small businesses alike. Anytime taxes are raised, you need to spend more of your time away from family and your children to earn money to pay your bill for government services, or, give up other things that would have contributed to your pursuit of happiness.

And while the government is also an employer, it generally grows every time it receives more money for a new policy because it needs to add more processes, people, and equipment to serve. The more we can solve problems locally, the more those dollars go toward the intended person or use.

Programs like the Boys and Girls Club rely more on donations and events like Weld Dancing with the Stars than grant funding and local fundraising helps families and kids at the local level.

When I was informed that foster parents had a churn of 18 months, I worked with DHS and Pastor Thomas to engage the Weld Faith Partnership and our church communities to provide wrap-around services so our foster families could stay together longer to provide kids a place to belong and heal and thrive. Local partnerships stretch our tax dollars and provide better outcomes.

Thanks to our amazing team at Weld County and our long-time Finance Director, we lowered our mill levy by seven mills with over one Billion returned to taxpayers over the last decade. You may have noticed that your property taxes rose by 30 percent while your income didn’t; that is because the state legislature beheaded the constitutional protections of the Gallagher amendment in 2020. Since the state isn’t likely going to budge on the assessment rate, I am going to ask Weld County to lead the way again and do an additional temporary mill levy credit. SB23-108 ensures that besides Weld, every taxing entity on your tax bill can temporarily reduce their mill levy, and that will make a big difference to families, to renters, as well as seniors on a fixed income in the coming years because everything is going up: healthcare, food, insurance, energy costs.

With my background in the legislature and the legislative audit committee, I have also worked to reduce redundancies or streamline processes or make those processes more transparent to the public in Weld County.

Commissioners also spend time at the state capitol. I testified on many bills at the state legislature, waiting until nearly midnight to testify on one case to make sure our citizen’s voices were heard on a bill that would have crippled our energy industry and sent prices of goods and services soaring. I also testified on bills like SB213, which would have removed local planning control to unelected bureaucrats and it was defeated. I also helped advocate to get bills passed that saved every County in the state money by reducing overlapping requirements for maintenance.

As the chair of the Hwy52 coalition, I facilitated meetings to help communities move together to approve ADA ramps and sidewalk and safety improvements so children, seniors, and disabled citizens could cross Hwy 52 safely on Glen Creighton to get to the senior or recreation center. More recently, our communities worked together on a roundabout in front of Weld Central High School because crashes involving vehicles and school buses were increasing. And I requested a study that retimed the lights on Hwy 52 to improve traffic flow and reduce crashes during peak commuting hours. And more safety improvements and resurfacing for Hwy 52 are coming soon.

I coordinated with our Weld Departments to:

z Help reduce red tape and enhanced the process, transparency, and experience for businesses and citizens utilizing services in the Planning and Building Services Department

z Work alongside our Director of DHS who won the CCI Director of the Year for her excellent work in leadership and legislative efforts.

z Work alongside Directors of Weld Planning and Energy Departments to reduce duplicity with the state regulations and refine processes so that energy production could be unleashed here in Weld as well as jumpstart an Energy Leadership Conference here on the Eastern slope.

z Work alongside our CSU extension director to improve processes for Weld County Fair and help with planning for the 1st Women in Agriculture Conference this fall.

z Work alongside Public Works on safety and capacity improvements to Market Street in Keenesberg.

There seems to be a misconception that we stay in Greeley full-time, but there are many things commissioners do to provide leadership at the state level, in their communities, and in their districts every day that isn’t always recognized. I am proud to represent District 3 and I invite you to reach out to me at Saine4weld.com if you have any ideas or concerns in your community. But I dance *badly, in case you ask.

Proud to represent District 3 in Weld County, Lori Saine, Weld Commissioner, D3

Separation and Reconciliation

Have you heard someone use the words, “The Separation of Church and State?” It was first penned in an 1802 letter citing part of the first amendment followed by the now famous phrase...”thus building a wall of separation between Church and State.”

It sounds final, immovable, implacable... because it was meant to be. The phrase belongs to Thomas Jefferson, writing to the Danbury Baptists.

Was Jefferson chastising the Baptists for baptizing too loudly and drowning out Danbury town councils? Perhaps baptisms were a lot more colorful back then and the town hall needed a sound barrier.

Context is important in this discussion because the “separation of church and state” has been lifted out of another discussion about freedom and now used to stifle that same freedom. When Jefferson wrote to the Baptists, the letter was about keeping the state from interfering with the free exercise of religion, not the other way around; a constitutional wall that restrained government, not the church.

In this continuing series ‘Separation and Reconciliation’, which you will only see here in Carbon Valley Consumer Report, we will explore what it means to have a government functioning the way the Founders designed it to maximize the pursuit of happiness by maximizing a law of perfect freedom for an imperfect people, and, how that can impact our community to love in radical ways, reconnect to family, and lift up our neighbors.

Your friend, Publius (of the people)

Adrienne Sandoval Announces Candidacy, Initial Endorsements For Weld County Commissioner

Mayor Adrienne Sandoval of Platteville announced her candidacy today for the Republican nomination for Weld County Commissioner District 3.

“Weld County has a rich history of supporting our agriculture and natural resources, defending our water, promoting our small businesses, and balancing our county budget every year,” Sandoval said. “But continuing that tradition of leadership requires a full-time Commissioner from District 3 who shows up for work each day.”

A fifth-generation resident of Weld County, Sandoval has served as Mayor of Platteville since 2018.

“I’m running for County Commissioner because the communities of Weld County District 3 deserve a fresh, optimistic, and principled voice on the Commission,” Sandoval said. “I want to protect our Weld County Way of life by being accountable to you in every single day of public service. I’m running because the conservative values that run deep and true in this county deserve protecting and advocating–I understand what I believe, why I believe it, and am prepared to represent our values on Day One.”

She has been endorsed by Weld County Sheriff Steve Reams, State Senator and former Congressional candidate Barbara Kirkmeyer, Weld County Commissioner Mike Freeman, Weld County Commissioner Kevin Ross, former Weld County Commissioner and County Clerk Steve Moreno, Fort Lupton Mayor Zo Hubbard, and other local elected officials throughout Weld County.

“District 3 deserves a full-time county commissioner who shows up for work each day.”

Weld County To Receive Additional Funding To Support Programs For New Mothers

The Weld County Board of Commissioners approved a contract amendment with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood (CDEC) adding $260,000 to the existing contract with the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) for the Nurse Home Visitor Program (NHVP).

The Nurse Home Visitor Program provides no-cost home visits to qualified lowincome, first-time mothers during pregnancy and continues until the child is two years old. By pairing specially trained nurses with expectant mothers or families with newborns, the program offers valuable education, guidance, and health assessments, ensuring that families receive the support they need during critical stages of early childhood development. The nurses serve as mentors, developing close relationships with the mothers and coaching them on child health and development and encouraging economic self-sufficiency for the family.

“The Nurse Home Visitor Program is one of the most impactful programs we have,” stated WCDPHE Director, Jason Chessher. “This evidence-based program has demonstrated multi-generational positive outcomes that benefit both families and our community.”

For more information about the Nurse Home Visitor Program or the services provided, visit weld.gov/Government/Departments/Health-and-Environment/Clinicaland-Community-Health/Nurse-Family-Partnership.

Inaugural Pickleball Party Supports A Woman’s Work!

Thursday, August 31st | 4-9 PM | $60/person

Please note that each person registers as an individual (no teams) | Check-in – 4-4:45 PM

@ The Hidden Pickle - 20 S. Bowen Street, Longmont

Play at various courts around town - 5-7 PM | Locations to be communicated at check-in Post-Play Fun – 7-9 PM @ The Hidden Pickle | Food, Drinks, Silent Auction, and Other Activities Two Divisions to Maximize Your Funhttps://awomanswork.org/events/pickleball-tournament/

Reduce Tumbleweeds Through Management Of Kochia, Russian Thistle

It’s a scene that repeats itself every year. Tumbleweeds blow throughout Weld County clogging irrigation ditches and fence lines. In some cases, they can be so severe they temporarily close county roads, as evidenced this past April when they overtook a portion of Weld County Road 53 southeast of Kersey and northwest of Keenesburg, effectively closing the road for three days.

To reduce the nuisance tumbleweeds create, Weld County Government is reminding residents that they have the ability to stop tumbleweeds before they start by taking some simple steps to manage the growth of Kochia and Russian Thistle on their property.

“We’ve repeatedly seen tumbleweeds create a hinderance, and many start as dead Kochia” said Weld County Commissioner Kevin Ross. “We encourage residents to do what they can to limit the growth of these weeds. By doing so, hopefully tumbleweeds won’t be as big of an issue in the fall.”

It’s not just a few trouble areas that are concerning. Rather, it’s the Kochia and Russian Thistle that dots thousands of acres countywide, typically forming large biomass clusters near buildings, fences, on non-productive ground or near other areas of disturbance. To best manage Kochia and Russian Thistle growth and prevent the weeds from forming tumbleweeds, Weld County Weed Division Supervisor Tina Booton recommends:

Mowing and mulching to a manageable height – When mowing is conducted prior to flowering, it has been shown to reduce the likelihood of biomass clusters reforming by 33% compared to a non-mowed site. Mowing can also reduce seed density in an area by 98%, if it is completed prior to flowering. However, mowing a little later in the season can lessen the chances of having to mow more than once and reduce the size of biomass clusters.

Planting native grasses and other desirable vegetation – Doing so may limit the opportunity for Kochia seed to establish and form new plants.

Chemical application – Although it may be too late for chemical application this year, it is most effective when used in the early growing stages of Kochia and Russian Thistle, usually in the spring and summer.

Booton realizes no two situations are alike. She said the Weed Division is always willing to help landowners identify their issue and develop a treatment plan. She just asks that they take the first step to address the issue.

“Controlling Kochia and Russian Thistle is mutually beneficial. Not only does it reduce the likelihood of tumbleweeds forming, but it also enables the land to be used as intended without being invaded by these plants. We’re happy to help people develop the best management strategy, we just ask they make managing Kochia and Russian Thistle a priority,” Booton said.

Read more about Kochia Weed and Russian Thistle control options. Contact the Weed Division at (970) 400-3770 or at www.weldweeds.org

Food for the Soul: Blessings

On May 21st, I had a stroke, and guess I was the last to know…

Sitting in church taking notes on my fellow pastor’s sermon, I noticed that I was writing really small, and I couldn’t read it! Weird, I thought, or maybe just a little strange. But life goes on, and feeling no pain, I gave it no more thought. As the service was ending, I had a little trouble getting to my feet, but since this had been my reality for the past two weeks or so, I dismissed it and got ready to go home. Out to my ’74 Pontiac LeMans (Pam and I had driven separately since she had a recital for her piano students that afternoon and we had guests coming for lunch), got In and drove home the 15 miles uneventfully.

Lunch was good, and I thought that my speech was somewhat slurred, but nobody noticed, so I didn’t give it any more thought. On to the recital in Berthoud, riding with my

daughter. When we arrived, I asked her to assist me across the street, because I felt a little unsteady. Once inside, things seemed normal, and we all enjoyed the kids making music.

Afterwards we went a block to the A&W for refreshments, and I wobbled to a seat outside. When Pam came out to sit with us, she noticed my face was droopy, and demanded that I go to Urgent Care in Longmont. I argued unsuccessfully, and even offered to finish her unfinished ice cream (which she refused). On we went.

As she helped me into the facility, I was quickly analyzed and pronounced a stroke victim! (I later learned there are more than 750,000 annually in the USA. I soon enjoyed a brief ambulance ride to the southern Longmont hospital, where I experienced a cat scan and an EKG and lots of poking and prodding. (My “enjoyment” of the ambulance lessened when I paid the $89 bill later- we should have gone direct!).

Thus began a 2 1/2 week hospitalization, followed by lots of doctor and therapist visits

Esh’s Grocery Store Renovation Expresses Gratitude to Community

Kelly Fordyce Martindale

Before you read this article you MUST LIKE and follow Esh’s at Dacono on Facebook, so you’ll find out the treasure of the day!

Whenever I need canned whole green chiles for my chile rellenos, I head to Esh’s. They usually have them in stock and are much less expensive. I especially appreciate that they have gluten free products at reasonable prices and so many varieties!

Esh’s is like having Whole Foods in your backyard, but without the high costs. Customers find organic, gourmet, and locally grown foods, plus small appliances, gifts, and natural health products. Did I mention fantastic produce? That too!

Located in Dacono at the corner of Highway 52 and Glen Creighton/ Frederick Way, the store’s hours are 9am to 7pm Monday through Saturday. They’ve just finished their renovation project. “I want the community to know that they’re important to us,” said store manager, Phil Francis. “We’ve been here eighteen years. The time and energy we put into the renovation is to show our customers that we value them. This investment is to uplift the community.”

When I visited, I felt a change in the atmosphere. More open, shelves organized and faced neatly, I felt invited in to seek out new treasures. Esh’s added additional dairy coolers and changed up the produce. It’s bright, airy, and pleasant.

“It’s a scavenger hunt for treasures every day at Esh’s,” someone mentioned on a Facebook post. I get it. Esh’s is a store you want to peruse. If I think I can run in and grab an item, I’m usually wrong. Something unique, like gourmet coffee or high-quality health supplements, always catches my attention and draws me in.

With rising prices at the checkout counter, it can seem impossible to buy organic and natural groceries while staying on budget. Family owned, Esh’s Grocery Store has been sourcing products from the top brands and largest distributors to make gourmet groceries affordable for everyone.

When I say gourmet and top brand items; you’ll find fancy olive oils from Italy, nuun endurance and hydrating products, Irish butter and cheeses, free-range eggs, different types of milk (non-dairy too) and fresh orange juices. Organic seasonal produce is garden-crisp and colorful. They carry all types of meat including grass fed, organic beef and they’ve even had Wagyu beef at a drastically reduced cost per pound.

Is it a margarita night? Get your mangos, strawberries, and limes at Esh’s!

For first-timers, afraid you won’t like something? They quick and easy returns so you can shop all of their deals with confidence. Freezer, cooler, and produce returns accepted within 10 days of purchase, all other items within 30 days of purchase. Please bring your receipt or card used for purchase.

Check out Esh’s today. They have just about everything you’ll need: pet food, personal hygiene, kitchen wares and paper products, produce, deli meats/cheese, and frozen meat, and so much more.

Shopping for groceries can feel like a chore. At Esh’s we promise 3 things:

1. You’ll save money

2. You’ll find products you won’t see at other stores

3. You’ll support our local community and help reduce food waste in our landfills.

These things will help you put the joy back in grocery shopping.

“Here at Esh’s we strive to keep overstock food out of our landfills and support local charities through over 300,000 pounds of donations each year,” said the owners. “So, by shopping with us you are also helping your community.”

Remember, at Esh’s you get gourmet groceries at budget friendly prices. They’ve served northern Colorado since 2002 and have two locations, Dacono, and Loveland.

Thank you, Linda, owner of Dacono Daylight Donuts, for the heads up about the renovation.

Hours: Mon-Sat: 9:00-7:00 at 913 Carbondale Dr, Dacono, CO 80514. 303.833.5005.

which are continuing. So why in the world would anyone title this ‘tale of woe’ BLESSINGS? Have I lost my mind along with other faculties? Sorry, but I’m mostly lucid.

I’m a very lucky guy because God allowed me to experience this for His glory. I was chosen for this to glorify God. (Plus I get to relive parts of my childhood again). I’ve learned to tie my shoes, dress myself, take a shower, walk, and talk clearly. I’ve learned how to eat again with my right hand, and although I’m not as cute as when I was a lad learning these things the first time, how many guys get to experience a second childhood when they’re an old guy?

I’m now back at the church office two days/several hours per week, and back at the business one day. I’m home enjoying “farm life”, chores and lawn mowing, raking, and baling hay, fussing with my old cars. As of this writing I’ve delivered the message at church 2 out of 3 weeks. Life is good, unless you don’t count weekly doctor and therapy visits as ‘good’, (plus regularly donating a blood sample to inquiring medical types).

I don’t claim to know the future, but I know Him Who holds the future, so I have nothing to worry about. Did a memorial service for a younger man who began to follow the Lord near the end of his life, so while he only knew the joy of the Lord for a brief time and I have for over 50 years, we will BOTH get to rub shoulders with Jesus for all eternity!

Don’t wait for something challenging to happen to you before starting to look and listen to JESUS. He will always be the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE. And NO MAN comes to the Father except through Him. Come and learn more about this Man by visiting ALC. We meet at 10 am Sundays at 4380 Highway 66.

Weld County To Obtain Rapid Screening Kits To Combat Rising Rates Of STIs

The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) will obtain no-cost, rapid screening/testing kits for HIV, Hepatitis C, and syphilis following the approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Weld County Board of Commissioners.

Colorado has seen substantial increases in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in recent years and CDPHE has placed Weld County under an Alert Status for newly diagnosed HIV and syphilis cases. The 2022 case rate of new HIV diagnoses in Weld County was 6.7 cases/100,000 residents compared to a case rate of 4.1/100,000 in 2021. From 2017 to 2021, the rate of syphilis in the state has increased 172.2%. In the same time, the rate of reported cases of syphilis among women 15-44 years old increased 494.2%.

The rise in the number of reported cases of STIs is due, in part, to people returning to health providers for regular check-ups after COVID. During the pandemic, there was a decrease in the number of people going to their provider and some clinics had decreased capacity for STI screening which had a profound impact on trends tracked by surveillance data. Increased access to testing, and appropriate and prompt testing of persons with potential exposure to STIs, is critically important in interrupting disease transmissions.

“The number one strategy when in an alert status is increased screening,” said WCDPHE Public Health Services Director, Shaun May. “With these finger prick tests we can do community level screening on a lot more people in a way that is a less invasive than drawing blood.”

This support is made available via one-time funding through CDPHE’s Rapid Testing Distribution Program for Local Public Health Agencies. By approving the MOU for the Rapid Testing Distribution Program, Weld County has taken a proactive step to ensure that the county has the correct tools to swiftly identify potential outbreaks on a local level, providing valuable data to the health department and individuals to make informed health decisions. The project term for this MOU runs until the end of 2023.

For more information visit https://www.weld.gov/Government/Departments/ Health-and-Environment.

Miners Day Celebration September 16

Get excited for Frederick Miners Day on Saturday, September 16, honoring our Town’s heritage. This all-day celebration begins at 8 am with a wreath laying ceremony and tours of the Miners Memorial Museum in Crist Park (105 Fifth St.). At 10 am, we turn up the fun with a parade and burro race through our downtown streets. For afternoon entertainment, go to Centennial Park (630 Eighth St.) for family-friendly activities, market vendors, food trucks, community performances, live music & fireworks about 9pm.

Meal Prep: A Key to Health Success

We often think that meal preparation is only important if you want to lose weight but I would propose that it is critical to your overall health! Those who engage in meal prep have increased food variety and a better-quality diet; which, overall, is simply better for us. I’ll even go as far as to suggest that because we spend so much more time outside in the summer, it’s even more important to meal prep in the summer than in the winter. Why meal prep? Generally, meal preparation gives you control over what you eat. By being prepared you can avoid fast food, coming home starving and opening that refrigerator or cabinet only to eat the first thing you see. If you are ready, the choice will be easier. Other reasons to meal prep include: saving you time and money, you will stress less about what to cook, and it’s a good way to portion control.

Here are 4 essential tips for meal prepping:

1. Create a plan. Review your week and see what’s going on. Make a plan.

2. Gather all the right tools and equipment. In other words, invest in some storage containers to store the food in, if you don’t have any.

3. Start simple. Choose a finite set of ingredients to cook with. Making things overly complicated isn’t usually sustainable.

4. Cook and store properly. You may store in one big container or individual containers based on how you are using the prepared food.

Once you have a plan and quality storage containers:

1. Go to the grocery store and don’t deviate (too much) from that plan.

2. Come home, start washing and chopping and prepping to your plan.

3. Cook the food or not. I say or not, because perhaps you may chop peppers that you want to have available as a snack. Store the food in one big container or in individual containers for an easy go-to breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

4. Enjoy. Be ready to enjoy the good food that you cooked in minutes. It’s probably even faster than fast food!

Lastly, if you are new to meal prep, I suggest you start with one meal or snacks and branch out from there. Consistency is the key to a healthy lifestyle.

Are you struggling to stick to a food plan? Do you find yourself driving through fast-food with the kids because they just finished playing soccer and you have nothing for dinner? Or perhaps, you simply just want to have better food choices available? I can help.

I offer FREE health conversation, no obligation, to talk with YOU about YOUR health! Just reach out.

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

Health&WELL BEING

Alternative Medicine: Loving Intention

“When you have the courage to open your heart completely to love, a miracle happens. You start perceiving the reflection of your love in everything. Then eating, walking, talking, singing, dancing, working, playing - everything you do becomes a ritual of love.”

Don Miguel Ruiz

Well put. I thought Don Miguel Ruiz’s words would be an appropriate way to begin this article about the Fire element that shines throughout the summer months, highlighting love and social connection.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, each organ is not only identified with it’s physical structure and function, but also with seasons, emotions, color, sound, and elements (fire, earth, metal, water and wood). Since it is summer, the season of growth, I’d like to dedicate this article to the related organs: Heart, Pericardium, Small Intestine and San Jiao. All together, these organs correspond with summer, the fire element, the color red, the sound of laughter, and the ability to communicate and authentically connect with people.

The Fire element corresponds to the more active and social aspects in life, quite the opposite of the Water element that is associated with the season of winter and being more introspective and quiet. We are all familiar with these two very distinctly different experiences and see that both are just as important as the other. There are also those moments where we feel more outgoing in the winter, or more introspective in the summer, depending upon life circumstances. In any event, balance is key. When we are in touch with what the seasons have to offer, and correspond to them openly, we then know that the organ(s) associated are also in balance.

When summer time comes around we usually experience that increased desire to socialize, dance and play. Research has proven that social connectedness is one of the most important factors in keeping the functional aspect of the Heart healthy. Also, the Heart has a strong connection with the mind, however in this case the mind is not only thought of as brain function, but more of the relationship between the two. In Chinese medicine this relationship between the Heart and the mind is referred to as Shen. The Shen is revealed through the eyes, we can see how someone is feeling on a mental/ emotional level just by looking into their eyes.

In addition to the Heart, there are three other organs involved within the Fire element. The one physically closest to the Heart is the Pericardium, an organ that is seen as the “Heart Wrapper” and functionally protects the Heart. As we look at our own “Heart Wrapper” we can ask ourselves, are we protecting ourselves too much / not enough or is there an appropriate balance of both?

Next, the Small Intestine is the Yang paired organ to the Heart. All organs have a paired organ, and the physically hollow organs are considered Yang, the more solid organs considered Yin. The main function of the Small Intestine is to receive food from the stomach, further digest and absorb it, then send the residue to the large intestine and urinary bladder. Essentially, the Small Intestine “separates the pure from the turbid”. Emotionally, the Small Intestine involves the ability to provide ourselves with clear boundaries. For example, sometimes there is a need to separate the many different roles we play such as in the work place and at home. If it is difficult to separate each role appropriately and we find ourselves mixing the roles together, the purity of these roles dissipates and becomes muddy and unclear.

The last organ is the only one not recognized in Western medicine, and therefore has no direct english translation. It is the San Jiao, the Yang paired organ to the Pericardium. There are three jiaos; upper, middle and lower, each pertaining to the organs in those locations of the torso. The image of a pot of rice cooking seems to best convey the work of the San Jiao; the lower jiao, or area below the umbilicus, represents the fire below the cook pot. The middle jiao, approximately between the umbilicus and below the sternum, represents the bottom of the cook pot containing the rice and water. The upper jiao, located in the chest, is the area where the steam rises up within the cook pot just under the lid, to cook the rice. In a very small nutshell, the San Jiao connects all the organs, with a strong connection to water; (the human body is about 72% water) “the San Jiao is the irrigation official who builds waterways”. This function of essentially keeping proper functioning and communication between the organs might be translated emotionally to that aspect that keeps us physically and spiritually connected with the people close to us, and also with the community. Together, the organs related to the Fire element help us to keep our actions, words and thoughts clear and full of loving intention.

Before engaging in conversation, or any other action, it seems important to ask the question of intention...what are my intentions? do my intentions come from a place of love? compassion? do my intentions positively affect the people I love

AND the wider community? If they don’t, then why bother?

When we proceed with loving intention, we are witness to the feeling as it vibrates throughout our life, the people around us and into the community.

Daisy Lear, MSOM, Dipl.Ac L.Ac., practices Chinese medicine & acupuncture at 19411 Ute Hwy | Longmont, CO 80503. Her phone number is 303.587.3557, her email is daisylear@gmail.com or visit website at daisylear.com. She is a Healthcare Provider for CIGNA and Aetna. She is the Director of Acupuncture for Veterans and their Families also and you can learn more at www.daisylear.com

Watermelon (Additional Info from Daisy )

Watermelon is a Chinese herb! The red and white fruit, rind, seeds and juice all have a specific action on the body. Generally, watermelon cools the entire system and enters the Heart, Stomach and Urinary Bladder channels. The white part of the fruit next to the rind has the most cooling effect. In addition to eating watermelon because it’s delicious, here are a few more reasons to eat it and drink its juice:

z Re-hydrates the body and prevents heat stroke

z Reduces heat-induced puffiness and edema

z Since the cooling nature of watermelon positively affects the Heart, and is high in lycopene and vitamin C, there is a calming effect, quelling anxiety and reducing blood pressure

z Helps to move and digest food - we’ve all experienced the feeling of food “just sitting there” especially at the height of summer heat

z Great for constipation, so avoid watermelon if experiencing loose stool or diarrhea (and call your acupuncturist!)

z Promotes urination and helps to regulate the urinary bladder, it is a diuretic, so avoid watermelon if there is excessive or uncontrolled urination.

Watermelon is best eaten at room temperature. Chinese medical theory suggests that all foods be eaten at room temperature, or cooked, since food is more easily digested when eaten closer to the temperature of our own system, 98.6. It is the inherent thermal temperature of foods that help to cool the system down during the heat of summer, not refrigeration!

If you are interested in reading about tasty and unusual recipes using watermelon, here is a link: https://bit.ly/44HTOlC

New Cardio Walking Workout Class!

If you like to dance and have fun, then check out my new Cardio Walking Workout Class! This low impact workout will keep your joints safe, while helping you shed pounds and transform your fitness level.

The Cardio Walking Workout will help you reach your daily step goals, and boost your mood and energy. This workout can be adapted for any age and ability. So get ready to dance your way to better health with these simple steps. Here are some of the amazing benefits you’ll get by joining this class:

z The Cardio Walking Workout is done while standing and requires no equipment.

z Each workout is approximately 15-20 minutes long and you can easily fit it into your schedule.

z This workout is designed to get you moving! It’s a series of very easy dance movements set to the beat of

4 4 4

1999-2023

different music each class.

z No need to be intimidated, this is suitable for all fitness levels.

You’ll get your heart rate up, and be burning calories that will leave you sweaty by the end. It’s a mini dance party where you’ll have fun, the time will fly by, all while getting a great workout in.

Ladies, join us for this new Cardio Walking Workout class on Tuesday mornings at 10am inperson in Carbon Valley as well as virtually, and Wednesday evenings at 7pm. I also offer Interval & Strength Training class on Mondays at 9:30am, and CoreFirst Training class on Fridays at 9:30am. This new class and times will start on Tuesday August 15th.

What are you waiting for? Lace up your shoes, crank up the volume, and let’s get started with this Cardio Walking Workout! Visit my website at www.TimeForChangePersonalTraining.com to find out how to get signed up.

MARSH

Dacono’s Music & Movie September 9

Music & Movies return for an evening of great live music and an outdoor movie at Centennial Field (under the blue water tower.) Admission to the event is free and food trucks will be available for food and beverage purchase. Grab your blanket and dancing shoes and head to Centennial Field to enjoy a fun evening of music, eats and box office movie hits. We have a full summer of great music and must-see movies. See you there!

September 9, 2023:

Music: Jacob Larson Band

Movie: TO BE ANNOUNCED!

Food Trucks/Vendors:

z Original by Greek

z Chef in a Box

z The Sweet Spot Evening Schedule

Sept: 5:00PM Food Trucks - Music 5:15PM - Movie 7:15PM

Frederick’s 2024 Photo Contest

Submit your pictures for the annual ‘Built on What Matters’ Calendar featuring residentsubmitted photos representing Frederick. The 2024 calendar will have the theme of Frederick’s values: Family, Respect, Empowerment, and Dedication, and will showcase local photographers in a full-sized, 12-month calendar that will be sent to Frederick residents and businesses. Please remember our brand promise, categories, judging, and rules when submitting your photos. This is a great week to snap fun family pics at the Chainsaws & Chuckwagons event!

United Power Announces Wholesale Power Agreement with Guzman Energy

Denver-Based Firm to Provide Key Power Block for Co-op’s Future Needs

United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Guzman Energy (Guzman), a wholesale power provider dedicated to developing portfolios that meet their clients’ needs for economical, reliable power, announce the signing of a 15-year contract to deliver wholesale power to the cooperative.

The power supply agreement features fixed wholesale power pricing that provides the cooperative predictable and stable power supply costs. Under the agreement, Guzman will deliver approximately one-third of the cooperative’s power needs, beginning in May 2024.

“As we move forward with our plan to diversify our power portfolio, this contract is an important part of our strategy,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “Guzman has an excellent track record of providing economical resources for cooperatives, and their commitment to integrating renewables will help us control costs while still keeping our eye on environmental impacts.”

United Power’s planned exit from its current power contract will take place May 1, 2024. The move was motivated by a desire to stabilize power costs and provide greater flexibility to the cooperative and its members.

“Wholesale power continues to be United Power’s largest expense, accounting for over 70% of our costs,” stated Gabriel. “Having more predictable power purchase costs will offer many benefits to United Power members today and into the future.”

“We are proud to contribute to United Power’s efforts to reduce power supply costs, gain greater control over generation mix, and contribute to more local, sustainable energy,” said Robin Lunt, Chief Commercial Officer at Guzman Energy. “We look forward to continued opportunities to support United Power and other cooperatives’ success.”

United Power serves nearly 110,000 meters and maintains and operates over 6,500 miles of distribution line. The 900-square mile service territory wraps around the north and west borders of the Denver International Airport. It includes the north and northeast metropolitan development corridors along Interstate 25, Interstate 76, State Highway 85, and E-470 and the Golden Gate and Coal Creek Canyons, two of Colorado’s most iconic and historic mountain canyons. As a result of its geographic location, United Power’s system is experiencing significant demand and energy growth, averaging approximately 6% annually.

To learn more about United Power’s power supply transition, visit www.unitedpower. com/powersupply

Hello Mead Area Chamber Friends,

The Mead Area Chamber of Commerce golf tournament has always been an opportunity for Chamber members to introduce your business to members of the community and other businesses.

It has been a highlight of the Chambers event calendar for the last 10 years minus ‘the covid years’. Hundreds of players, ‘wanna be’ players, ‘never gonna be’ players and Chamber members have enjoyed playing at Ute Creek Golf Course, loved winning door prizes, shared great meals and even better interactions.

It is with regret that we are forced to announce that were unable to have enough players to sign up for this year’s tournament and we have been forced to cancel the event.

It is our plan to be back bigger and better next year.

Jay Stype, President, Mead Area Chamber of Commerce

Qualified Listeners Help Veterans & Their Families

Veteran Service Officers

Veterans and their dependents are potentially eligible for benefits and eligibility will be determined during an intake interview. The Veteran Service Officer (VSO) will serve as your advocate to assist you with the preparation, presentation, and possible appeal of your VA benefits. They are trained and accredited by the VA to aid Veterans, their dependents, and survivors. Services are provided at no charge.

Your DD-214 and other records can change over time regardless of when you were discharged from the military. Some Veterans have been surprised to learn they may be eligible for awards, accommodations, and benefits they were not aware of. You do not have to fill out VA forms yourself; it is the job of the VSO to do this for you.

VSOs are available in every county in the U.S. Their services do not have geographical boundaries and are authorized to assist regardless of where you live. They may also be a resource for services other than what the VA provides, such as home care, transportation, housing, etc.

VA Compensation to Increase

On June 14, the Veterans Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Act of 2023 was signed into effect. Veterans and dependents can expect to see an increase in disability benefits, clothing allowances, and dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) payments adjusted for inflation.

The amount of the increase will be based on inflation calculations published by the Social Security Administration at the beginning of the fiscal year, which is October 1. Veterans can expect to see the increased amounts with their January 2024 payments.

Vouchers for Veterans

Qualified Listeners, a Colorado-based Veteran & Family Resource Hub, partners with ARC Thrift Stores to provide vouchers for Veterans to any ARC Thrift Store in Colorado.

The vouchers allow Veterans to purchase clothing for job interviews, work, weddings, etc. This program is especially appropriate for recently discharged Veterans transitioning back into civilian life on a tight budget. If clothing isn’t needed the voucher can be used for other items in the store.

The process is simple, just email your DD-214 to Resource@qualifiedlisteners.org and include your name, phone number and mailing address. We’ll mail you a voucher.

For more information visit www.QualifiedListeners.org 720-600-0860

www.QualifiedListeners.org

United Power Announces Groundbreaking Battery Storage Contract

Battery capacity key to renewable integration and load stabilization

United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Ameresco, Inc. (Ameresco), a leading cleantech integrator specializing in energy efficiency and renewable energy, announce the signing of a groundbreaking battery storage contract. Under the 20-year agreement Ameresco will install a multiple site, 78.3 MW/313.34 MWh battery storage project on the cooperative’s electric distribution system.

The innovative project will strategically locate battery arrays throughout the cooperative’s service territory to allow United Power to balance its load while integrating renewable resources. The contract is just one of the many steps the cooperative is taking as it plans for the May 1, 2024 departure from its current wholesale power contract.

“The use of batteries on our distribution network is essential to a resilient and responsive power system, and we are excited to be moving ahead with one of the most aggressive plans for such a system,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “These battery arrays will allow us to balance our power needs throughout the day and incorporate local renewables more efficiently.”

Ameresco will provide four 11.75 MW and four 7.84 MW battery arrays, which will be located on eight different substation sites owned by United Power. The batteries, sited in Adams, Broomfield, and Weld counties, will enable the cooperative to store and dispatch power during heavy consumption periods.

“We are thrilled to partner with United Power on this transformational battery storage project,” said Jon Mancini, Ameresco Senior Vice President of Solar Project Development. “By strategically locating distributed resources and battery storage throughout their service territory, United Power will make strides toward achieving a resilient and responsive power system that integrates clean and renewable power resources for their rate base.”

United Power serves nearly 110,000 meters and maintains and operates over 6,500 miles of distribution line. The 900-square mile service territory wraps around the north and west borders of the Denver International Airport. It includes the north and northeast metropolitan development corridors along Interstate 25, Interstate 76, State Highway 85, and E-470 and the Golden Gate and Coal Creek canyons, two of Colorado’s most iconic and historic mountain canyons. As a result of its geographic location, United Power’s system is experiencing significant demand and energy growth, averaging approximately 6% annually.

To learn more about United Power’s power supply transition, visit www.unitedpower. com/powersupply

Dahlia Society Show

The Colorado Dahlia Society will be presenting its yearly shows in August and September. We invite the public to attend and learn more about our favorite flower, the dahlia. Our theme this year is SUMMER CELEBRATIONS, honoring Dad at a Rockies Game in June, Firecracker Fun in July, Bridal Bouquets in August, and Aspen Glory in September.

Our first show will be August 26-27 at the Flower Bin in Longmont; our second event is September 9-10 at Echter’s Nursery and Garden Center in Arvada (5150 Garrison St.). Shows will open for entries at 7:30 AM on Saturday, with judging starting at 10:00 AM. The Show then closes on Sunday at 4:00.

This is the first year for electronic printing of our showbook. If you go to our WEBSITE coloradodahlias.net, you can print our show book or parts of special interest to you.

This is the first year for our CREATIVE ARTS section. It centers on any handmade work, like a painting, a sculpture, or a quilted, knitted, or crocheted project. Dahlias have to be dominant and discernible.

You do NOT have to be a member to enter flowers, arrangements, photos, or creative arts items. If you have questions, please call Janet at 303-502-4295 or Gina Cameron at 609-304-3511.

What Goes Up, Must Come Down… Or Will It?

Hi everyone. By now, I would think that most people are over the shock of the drastic interest rate increases in the housing market that started back in April 2022, and have moved forward with satisfying their specific needs and wants when choosing where to live. Most would think that these rate hikes would have halted the housing market, and if you are brave enough to say it, you are still walking around telling people there is some sort of housing market crash coming and that’s when you plan on buying next.

The reality is, that’s just not the case in my humble opinion, and now more than ever is probably one of the best times to purchase a home in the Front Range since 2018! 18 months ago, if you were in the market to purchase a home you were most likely needing to get an offer in on day 1 and competing against 40 other offers. Buyers had to waive their inspection and appraisal rights and, in most cases, bring anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000 above asking price (IN CASH) just to win the deal. And get this, it was all for a home they didn’t really love! This is all because rates hit historical lows in the 3% range.

Fast forward to 2023. Buyers are getting to look at multiple homes on the market giving them time to make an educated decision on one of their largest purchases in life. They are getting under contract on homes they love for list price or below and in most cases, getting large amounts of seller paid concessions to buy down their interest rate. If you love living in Colorado and you are waiting for prices and rates to come down, PLEASE don’t! The housing market always goes up. It may dip but for the past 100 years, it has continued to go up. The unfortunate reality is that I’m afraid if you wait any longer, you may just find yourself priced out of this beautiful place you love and call home.

Call the Felz Team for more information.

Carbon Valley Chamber

Luncheon

August Luncheon CANCELLED

It’s been a busy summer and there are still so many exciting things coming up! We are working hard at putting together informative and helpful speaking engagements for September and the rest of the year, so stay tuned!

August 26Th

Two Words Can Change Your Life

In my work with older adults, walking them through what can sometimes be a challenging transition, I notice that those who seem to embrace an attitude of gratitude sail through things easier than others.

Enter those two magical words...thank you. If you’ve never developed a practice around gratitude, can I be the first to say how powerful it can be in changing how you view your life. When I say “practice”, I do mean just that. Being intentional about counting your blessings each day can actually change the neuro-pathways in your brain and “rewire” them in a different way.

If you’ve spent most of your life seeing all there is wrong in the world, well, guess what? You’re going to continue to see that and more as your world will quickly become what you tell yourself every day. Simply taking the time to say “thank you” out loud for the smallest things in your day, like your mobility,

Beef for Sale

Mallory Mini Farm is a small, local, family owned and operated farm in Frederick. We raise cattle and sell our beef. We have grass finished and grain finished and sell the beef by the 1/8 and 1/4 share, individual retail cuts and ground beef. Please call or text Angela at 970-308-5860 for more information.

SOUND

By Movieguide® Contributor

OF

or a roof over your head, the kind words of a friend, or being able to hear the birds chirping outside, can begin a shift in your body and soul that is very powerful.

When you practice gratitude with intention every day, you will start to see more blessings show up in your life. Perhaps they’ve always been there, but your mind was elsewhere. This is where it gets good, and this is where you can really make a shift that will not only improve your life, but the life of those around you, and dare I say the world. Give it a try.

Lindsay Adams is a Senior Advisor, helping families to find senior living and senior care. She can be reached at (303) 775-6312.

Calling All Artists 50+

The 2023 Golden Gallery Art Show is set for it’s 5th year coming this September! The Golden Gallery Arts Show promotes the art of Weld County 50+ residents and their wonderful artistic abilities. The opening reception and show are free and open to the public. If you or someone you know is a Weld County artist, age 50 or older, show off your talents and enter the Golden Gallery Art Show to have your art on display at the new Library Innovation Center (LINC) this September. For more information and an application to enter, contact the Greeley Active Adult Center located at 1010 6th St Greeley CO 80631; email Sheri Lobmeyer at Sheri.Lobmeyer@GreeleyGov.com, or call 970-350-9437.

FREEDOM Crushes Box Office Sales, Makes

Since the movie’s debut July 4, SOUND OF FREEDOM has made history.

The movie has grossed more than $100 million in the box office in less than three weeks.

The head of theatrical distribution for Angel Studios, Brandon Purdie, said in a press release, “There have only been 10 wide-release movies in box office history that have had a second-weekend increase greater than 35% over their opening weekend. All of them achieved this milestone during Christmas. Angel Studios is the only studio to accomplish this feat during the summer blockbuster season with ‘Sound of Freedom.’”

Jared Geesey, the senior vice president of global distribution at Angel Studios added, “While the entire summer movie box office lineup is underperforming, our small independent film continues to grow week over week. Driven by millions of

fans and supporters, ‘Sound of Freedom’ has become a national — and soon international — movement for change,”

Additionally, lead actor, Jim Caviezel, said, “SOUND OF FREEDOM is the best film I’ve done since PASSION OF THE CHRIST.”

Francesca Pollio Fenton of Catholic News Agency reported of Eduardo Verástegui who said, “Many doors were closed to us over these years; Disney, Netflix, Amazon, and other distribution houses said ‘no, this film is not for us, it’s not good business, nobody is going to see a film about child trafficking,’ they claimed. Faced with these refusals, we had two options: Give up and throw in the towel, or — when it comes to saving lives — don’t give up, keep going and persevere for as long as necessary.”

“And the movement for freedom is already a fact, it’s underway, and it’s growing, growing, growing without stopping; they can’t stop it. That is the

miracle: That in a world of lies and attacks, the truth makes its way, takes first place, and many lives will be saved thanks to this. Because in times of universal lies, Orwell said, telling the truth constitutes a revolutionary act,” Verástegui stated.

“SOUND OF FREEDOM tells the true story of Tim Ballard, a Homeland Security agent who, after rescuing a young boy from traffickers, learns that the boy’s sister is still captive. He quits his job and puts his life at risk as he embarks on a dangerous journey through the Colombian jungle to save the little girl. During the mission, Ballard ends up saving 123 people, 55 of whom are children,” Fenton wrote.

Movieguide® recently reported:

Angel Studios has just announced 450 new theaters will be showing SOUND OF FREEDOM this weekend.

“We understand there are rumors — predominantly in social media — that AMC theaters have made it difficult for

History

fans to see SOUND of FREEDOM in local AMC theaters, and we want to make it clear these rumors are not accurate,” Brandon Purdie, Head of Angel Theatrical Distribution, said in a statement about the expanded theatrical run.

Forbes also reported on the rumors of sabotage from AMC, writing that social media users claim theaters have been “shutting off air conditioning, evacuating the theater or refunding tickets” to showings of SOUND OF FREEDOM.

Purdie refuted those claims, writing, “AMC has been an outstanding partner for Angel Studios, and in fact, as a result of the movie’s performance and consumer demand, AMC has agreed to add additional screens for SOUND OF FREEDOM this weekend.

www.movieguide.org

Have you heard of Kid’s Corner on the Movieguide site? It’s a safe place to find entertainment for your little ones. Click here to check it out!

What Would Weld County be like Without United Way?

In the newest Spiderman movie “Across the Spider-Verse,” Miles Morales (the new Spiderman) visits an alternate reality: one in which Spiderman never existed.

As you might imagine, New York City without Spiderman is crime-ridden, depressing and hopeless. The world without Spiderman is a bleak place.

We see this same idea explored in the 1946 holiday classic “It’s a Wonderful Life,” in which George Bailey gets to see what his small town would be like if he had never been born. Bedford Falls without George Bailey is also a bleak place.

I’ve been serving on the United Way of Weld County board of directors for the last six years, and I am now honored to be assuming the role of board chair this month.

And so I ask: What would Weld County be like without United Way?

Through a five-pronged approach, United Way mobilizes collective resources in Weld County to address the biggest challenges we are facing, as identified by community members.

Reading Great by 8

Before the beginning of 4th grade, children need to learn to read – because after this time, they are pretty much reading to learn. It is critical that children don’t miss this important developmental milestone.

United Way manages Weld County’s Early Childhood Council, a community collaboration that is seeing improved outcomes for children before and during the first years of school.

Thrive by 25

Most of us can think of at least one person who made a difference in our lives as youth and young adults, and we know how important that was. The transition from adolescence to adulthood is difficult enough, but when a young person in our community must do it without a connection to a caring adult, the results can be disastrous.

With our partners, United Way is working towards having at least 75% of Weld County youth connected to a caring adult by 2024.

Weld’s Way Home

The COVID-19 Pandemic affected everyone in so many ways, ways that we won’t fully understand for years. Many in our community who were barely hanging on before 2020, now find themselves without housing. We see these folks living unhoused in Weld County today.

Through the work of the Housing Navigation Center, the cold weather shelter and our community partners, we are making significant progress in our fight to ensure that no person is forced to live unhoused.

Aging Well

Colorado has the third fastest growing population of adults 65+. This generation has contributed in countless ways to the great county we live in. They deserve resources to age with dignity, in the community of their choice.

The Aging Well shared effort includes more than 20 partner agencies that are working to ensure just this.

Connecting Weld

Having a wide variety of services in place means little if they aren’t publicized or can’t be accessed. Through a variety of avenues, United Way connects people in need with available resources.

Weld Project Connect is a one-day event designed to bring together service providers with those who need their help. Also, last year 211 Colorado made 16,764 referrals in northeast Colorado to help with things like rent, utilities and food.

The needs are vast, and I’m so thankful to live in a place where individuals, government and service providers lock arms and work together to meet the needs of our community. The world without United Way of Weld County would be a bleak place, and I’m glad that we don’t have to find out what it would be like. Find out more at UnitedWayWeld.org/initiatives

Angel Flores is the United Way of Weld County board of director’s chair and the pastor of Mosaic Church in Evans.

August Happenings at Aims Community College

Community members are invited to join Aims Community College at public events. Join us for these upcoming events on Aims Community College campuses.

Piano, Guitar, & Voice Recital | August 3 | 1 p.m. | Ed Beaty Hall Theater | Greeley Campus

Enjoy live entertainment from our awesome music department. Get ready for a harmonious fusion of piano, guitar, and voice at the Aims Community College student recital. Experience the exhilarating showcase of our talented performers as they captivate your senses. Prepare to be mesmerized by their musical prowess.

Aims Aviation Day | August 12 | 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Flight Training Center | Loveland

This free, fun and family-friendly event features demonstrations from the Aims Aviation Program, games and activities for the entire family. The Aims aviation team will have aircraft on display for the public to view. Attendees can also experience the new Aims mobile aviation lab, including virtual reality flight simulators, an air traffic control simulation, drones, STEM-related activities, and more. Over 20 vendors will be on-site, including representatives from major airlines and the Colorado Division of Aeronautics. Food trucks will be at the event with snacks and refreshments. You can help support scholarship funding for future aviation students by purchasing a thrilling airplane ride for $45 per person. The Colorado Eagles will be on site and signing autographs throughout the day. The event is sponsored by The Water Valley Company and the Colorado Eagles. Visit aims.co/aviation-day to get the latest information about Aims Aviation Day and purchase a flight.

Paramedic Graduation | August 18 | 5-7 p.m. | Public Safety Institute | Windsor Campus

Celebrate the summer graduation of paramedic students in a ceremony on the Windsor Campus.

Country Kickup Line Dancing Fundraiser | August 24 | 4-7 p.m. | Welcome Center | Greeley Campus

Want to enjoy a fun night of dancing for a difference? The Aims Foundation in partnership with Country Kickup, will offer country swing, line dancing and social dancing lessons all in one night. Tickets are $15 and supports scholarships for Aims students.

In-Person Campus Tours

Aims conducts tours for prospective students and their families on a regular basis. Visit events.aims.edu to find the schedule and RSVP for an upcoming tour. For more information about events at Aims Community College, visit events.aims.edu

About Aims Community College

Obituaries and Memorials

Obituaries, Memorial Messages & photos are always FREE in our publications~ Please tell the funeral home or e-mail to carbonvalley@gmail.com. Because we are a monthly paper, most funeral dates will be past. You may post funeral service information at www.facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport and we will share with the community.

Register

CRAFT FAIR

October 28

9a to 7pm

October 29 8a to 2p

“So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. ”

Peter 1:6