CVCRDec21 by Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Mead and Erie

Consumer Report Carbon Valley|Mead|Erie

Volume 22 • Issue 12 • December 2021 • Since 1999 • www.yourhomepagenews.com • carbonvalley@gmail.com

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C re a t in g Commu ni t y B y Conne c t i ng N ei g hb o rs

The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. ~Colossians 1:15-17

Uber for Auto Mechanics Trying to Destroy My Business and Your Car! Submitted by Thomas Maggio, Veteran, local, small business owner: Hands On Auto Tech

have been a business owner for well over 10 years now. I have struggled through the start up phase. To make things work in the beginning my family and I actually lived inside of our repair shop for 6 months, with our toddler child! More recently we struggled through Covid 19 like many other small businesses. We did it all while obeying the Labor laws, paying all the proper taxes, and having all the proper insurance and workman’s compensation plans. Now we face a new threat. A new company called “Your Mechanic” has opened up across the nation. This company is nothing more then a phone app and online website that connects potential clients needing vehicle repairs with auto mechanics. The company hires and does a background check on these mechanics, but hires them as contractors. This all sounds fine and great, except Your Mechanic is not looking for contractors, they are looking for employees willing to work as contractors. How do I know this? My company has a great reputation, so great that we are often hired by other local shops, as a contractor, to do work for those local shops. I reached out to Your Mechanic to become a contractor for them. They had no interest at all. They want to hire only individuals, not companies. But, they want those individuals

to have sole propriety or LLC businesses and agree to work as a 1099 contractor. So what, who cares? Well, I do. Because this company can hire people with out having to pay employee taxes, or workman’s comp, or unemployment insurance and so on, they are able to offer auto repair services for $20 less per hour then most regular auto repair shops. I can not compete with them while also obeying the law. I do not understand how this is legal. To make matters worse, they are taking advantage of both the mechanics, and the customers. Just take a moment to look up reviews for Your Mechanic, both on BBB, and on Glass Door. You will see many complaints of consumers who did not get what they paid for, as well as mechanics who did not get paid properly for the time they spent working. I recently had someone bring their car to me after they tried using the Your Mechanic app. She said the mechanic came to her house, told her he needed cash to buy parts for the car. He then took her car apart, left it disabled with the wheels off in her driveway, and then disappeared with the cash! When she contacted Your Mechanic she was told that since she gave the mechanic cash there was nothing they could do for her. She was left having to pay to have her car towed to my shop, as well as losing the $1100 she paid out to Your Mechanic. We were able to fix her car for less then what they had quoted her, even though

Your Mechanic is supposed to be cheaper. I do not know how this company is getting away with what they are doing. I feel like I have gone through all the struggles of running a legal and ethical business only to see a large corporate entity get away with breaking all the rules meant to protect workers. If Your Mechanic is able to continue to offer discounted prices while skirting

labor laws I do not know what will happen to myself and all the other legitimate auto repair business owners in this state and our country. I hope our government steps in and takes some action before consumers are left without a local shop they can trust. Hands On Auto Tech is located at 1566 Vista View Dr. Unit C, off Hwy 119, Longmont, CO, 80504. Call 720-340-4024 office or 720-442-2777 cell.

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Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Erie & Mead—Local News & Business Info for Residents

Vol. 22, Issue 12

What's OnMy Mind Kelly Martindale, Publisher

God Saw Me

astness displayed the immensity of God. Standing in the dark, necks craned backward, my husband and I breathed in the night air and the peace surrounding us. The night sky resembled black onyx. Void of clouds, the stars glistened like crystals hanging from a rearview mirror in a sun-soaked car. We’d enjoyed a day filled with sunshine and fresh air while riding our ATVs up, over, and around miles of expansive sand dunes in St. Anthony, Idaho. A delicious barbecue steak dinner, lots of laughter and great fellowship followed the day’s riding. But as we stood below the hugeness of the night sky, like the specks of sand we were standing on, it gripped me. It’d be easy to say, gripped by God, but the vagueness of that explanation diminished the glory of Him who deserves it. It seemed like a burning bush experience as the stars’ brightness soaked into my being. The face of God gripped me. He seemed so close, like looking at someone through the peephole in the front door. He was in my face. In that moment I sensed His breath. I cried. Perhaps it was the first time I truly realized He saw me. But it was more than that. I felt Him looking deep into my eyes, sensed His presence deep in my soul. My tears flowed. I wept because I experienced His love and at the same time, I felt the pain of the deaths of two of my children. I dropped to my knees and despite my loud weeping I kept hearing Him say, “I love you. I see you. I know your pain.” His words of comfort caused more grief as questions ricocheted through my mind. Why did Jason and Alisha have to die, Lord? Why does the pain continue to hurt so deeply and constantly?

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Again, I heard the same simple words, “I love you. I see you. I know your pain.” John 5:24 (NIV) says, “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me, has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” As profound and life changing as these words are, they had little impact on me since I’ve heard His word and believed for many years. Not only that, but those words seemed repetitious since I’d heard them in church, Sunday school, and Bible studies. Checking out the study notes written about the words of Jesus, once again, I was gripped. The notes simply said, regarding believing and eternal life, “…and the believer no longer belongs to death.” Again, I wept. But why? Was it a gratitude for my eternal life? Or perhaps it was affirmation that two of my children are present with the Lord. Maybe it was hope that I’d see them again. Regardless, I no longer belong to death. My weeping brought forth the familiar question, “Why does it have to hurt so much? I love you Lord, with my whole heart, but being close to you hurts deeply. To feel your love why do I also have to feel my pain.” How much pain can this mother’s heart bare? I fear it will explode or that someday I will have a burst aneurysm in my brain. But by God’s mercy and comfort, I make it through another day. God promises there are new mercies every morning and He keeps his word. I remember a time, before Alisha died, when I talked to everybody about God and His love for all of us. But since Alisha’s death in 1990 and Jason’s in 2002, my voice has been stifled.

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In the Bible, it says we must tell of the glory of God and not be ashamed of Him. Over the years, I’ve realized I’m not ashamed of God but rather afraid of Him. Reflecting on my life, I see a pattern. When I walk with God as my best friend, it seems bad things happen to those I care about. The deaths of my children were horrific experiences and there were other situations. The devil attempts to steal my joy and often it’s through my children. I’ve two surviving children and I fear for them. But when I live in that fear I cannot, at the same time, share the multitude of blessings I’ve experienced. It hurts to belong to Christ. It’s illogical and bittersweet, however, I know if something tragic happens, God is my anchor and my life preserver. If I choose to hang on to Him, I know I’ll survive. And I’ll be stronger. Knowing that, helps me understand that the deaths of my children may be my cross to bear, but I’m not the only one carrying a cross. Others are living with cancer or chronic pain, some have delinquent or missing children, others are abused or disabled. My life experiences aren’t unique to God’s children. The Lord never said life would be uncomplicated. But He did promise that we’ll overcome. Many times, I feel inadequate as a witness to God’s sovereignty, but recently Robert, my son, shared a conversation he’d had with a friend. “My friend kept asking me,” Robert said, “‘How do you know there’s a God? How do you really know?’” “I look at my mom,” he said looking directly at me. “After what she’s been through and she’s still alive, I know God exists.”

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Serving SW Weld County: Firestone, Frederick, Dacono, E. Erie, E. Longmont & Mead (22,000)! The ONLY Colorado publication to reach Consumers in our area every month via print and most social media platforms! For Display Advertising or to have a feature written or to send press releases or classiﬁeds, e-mail carbonvalley@gmail.com or call 303.833.5997. Deadlines: 15th of each prior month. Classiﬁed Ads: FREE up to 30 words Locally Owned & Operated Since 1999: Kelly J Martindale Sales: Kelly Martindale  Jennifer Holsclaw Production: Kelly Martindale Writers: Kelly Fordyce Martindale  Betty Heath You can read past issues at www.yourhomepagenews.com The CVCR is a member of the Carbon Valley, Erie and Mead Area Chambers of Commerce

The opinions expressed in features, columns, press releases, letters to the editor, etc. are not necessarily those of the Owner and publisher of the Carbon Valley Consumer Report. The Consumer Report assumes no responsibility for any outcome to any businesses, any advertiser, any people or any government entity.

Robert helped me to realize that even in my darkest hours, God works through me. Most days, I willingly let God guide me. But on days that I can’t, I tell God, “It hurts, Lord. It hurts to be close to you because I have to live in my reality without my children.” Those difficult times, God reminds me, “I love you. I see you. I know your pain,” then He adds, “Your reality includes Me. What of those who don’t know Christ? Their reality is death.” Those words sober me and by God’s grace, love, and mercy, I’m able to share again because, “I can live this life, even with joy, with help from Jesus Christ.”

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

MEAD MAYOR, COLLEEN WHITLOW

 Mead voters approved 1% sales and use tax for street maintenance.  Ziggi’s Coffee and World Headquarters is expected to open in December.  Responsible Growth: The Town of Mead recently celebrated a new milestone, with over 300 single family home permits issued so far. A single-family home permit is issued prior to a new home being built. With new family homes on their way, Mead is

FREDERICK MAYOR, TRACIE CRITES

 December brings so many thoughts to mind – the joy of the holidays, family get-togethers, and bright lights all over Town. But, Christmas lights represent so much more than celebrating one day of the year. That’s why we are focusing on a whole month of light-related activities to keep hope and healing top of mind. I’m proud to live in a community that looks out for one another,

maintaining responsible growth while preserving small town values.  Reliable Infrastructure: Voters approved a 1% sales and use tax increase that is expected to generate approximately $2.9M. All revenue will be dedicated in a separate fund and can only be used for street maintenance. The Board of Trustees spent the last year reviewing budget options and conducting extensive community outreach. The 1% sales and use tax increase will allow the Town to be proactive in long-term planning and street maintenance.  Public Safety: Public Works recently replaced a 1989 single axle dump truck, and they have another new dump truck on the way. We also have three new pickups fitted with plows, bringing our total snowplow fleet to six. The last several years our crews have struggled with inadequate equipment in hazardous weather conditions. The new fleet will provide the safety needed to clear snow and ice from streets in a timely and effective manner.  Fiscal Stability: Development Impact Fees will be increased

by 2.5% starting January 1, 2022. This increase is in accordance with the Impact Fee Study recommendations that was approved by the Board of Trustees in 2021. Development impact fees are a one-time fee imposed by the Town of Mead on new development projects, both residential and commercial, to pay for all or a portion of the costs of providing public services to the new development. These fees help reduce the economic burden on Mead.  Connected Community: Mead’s Christmas in the Park event is scheduled for Saturday, December 4 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Mark your calendars for a day of holiday celebration. This year we are excited to offer horse drawn carriage rides, a synthetic ice rink, and of course, Santa! For more information 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!

jumps in when there is a need, and genuinely cares about the values we as Team FRED practice every day: Family, Respect, Empower, and Dedicated. We’ll kick-off the season (of lights) with our Festival Of Light parade in downtown Frederick and our annual tree lighting ceremony in Crist Park on December 4. Also, please add your cheerful home light display to our Holiday Light Tour map. Can you imagine the whole Town giving it their all this year in the home decorating category? Families could explore and strengthen a sense of community pride when we all come together to shine the light. Our Town’s Community Giving Tree is another source of warm fuzzies and offers anyone who needs to connect with those who can fulfill that need. For festive updates, go to FrederickCO.gov/FOL.  As an elected official, and human, it is only natural to feel overwhelmed by our “to-do lists”. With the end of another year and a deep sense of commitment to the community, it is easy

to get lost in post-it notes and meetings. However, it is an excellent time to remind ourselves, work is ongoing and not ruled by the calendar. Our mission to foster an exceptional and inclusive community Built On What Matters will continue for many years to come!  Looking ahead to 2022, there is one big item to address - the election! If you have a passion for the community and desire to shape the future of Frederick, please join me for an informational meeting on Thursday, December 9, at Town Hall at 6 pm. “Running in the Right Direction” is an open gathering where candidates can learn more about an elected official’s expectations and receive campaigning guidelines and deadlines. Three Board of Trustee positions will be on the ballot for the April 5, 2022, election!  Let’s all take a breath, take in the lights, look out for one another and be grateful to live in a Town that celebrates joy!

Vol. 22, Issue 12

For The Carbon Valley, Mead & Erie—Like us at Facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport

THE LAW OFFICE OF

ELLEN M. ROSS

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Relieve Your Money Stress-Best Habit #3 How did my money situation get to be such a mess?

his is a frequent lament I hear from my clients. I want you to promise me right now that you won’t give it a second thought. Seriously, stop the self recrimination and guilt about how you got here: instead, I want you to direct all your energies toward fixing your situation. Many of my students have told me that you have to know your past in order to fix a broken situation. But when it comes to the emotional topic of money, the best way out of the mess is simple. I want you to focus on where you wish to go. Whether the focus is to become debt-free, or to have enough money to contribute to your retirement fund or to start 529 college education plans for your children (or grandchildren). Focus on your financial goals.

Best Habit No. 3: Decide on Your Monetary Goals and Chart a Path Stop hiding from your money troubles and face them head on. Yes, this takes courage. This takes a certain amount of will, but come on, you can DO THIS. It is ONLY money! It’s not like its childbirth, dealing with the

loss of a job (or worse, dealing with the loss of your spouse’s job)! Set a target date for when you will have your credit cards paid off or have a minimum balance in the 529 Plan for your granddaughter and then work daily at making that target a reality. You can do this. Hey, you lost those 15 pounds when you absolutely HAD to, so I know you can do this. Seriously, you can. When it comes to personal finances, don’t allow ignorance to make your situation seem hopeless. It isn’t. No matter where you are struggling, you can dig yourself out(even if it is with a teaspoon at first!). Start with the simple things that you can do for free: track your expenses, start reading personal finance books (that helps shield you from fear), and set yourself some targets for 2022. By starting these three habits and following through with them on a regular basis, you’ll watch your financial stress drop day-by-day as if you’re lowering yourself into a wonderfully warm bubble bath. Janine Bolon, is a Financial First Responder who has authored 10 books, is a Radio Show Host, and a teacher of Debt-Free Living. You can sign up for her free money course here: https://

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Redemption Road Coffee

aron Harsch began roasting his own coffee in a whirleypop crank-handle popcorn maker in 2010. As he researched and experimented, he perfected his roast creating a smooth, flavorful coffee. “You make a great coffee!” said friends. So, Aaron and his wife, Jessica, would give their coffee as Christmas gifts. The Harsch’s home-roasted coffee was well-loved. During that time, Aaron, with the support of Jessica, established a non-profit organization called Redemption Road. Redemption Road runs groups and weekend intensives that help men learn how-to live-in freedom. (Find out more at www. redemptionroad.com) In the fall of 2015, a friend made a comment to Aaron in passing, “You should sell this coffee to support Redemption Road”. That idea hit home. Aaron started considering what it would take to start a coffee roasting business. That Thanksgiving, he and his wife decided they would make this a reality. They bought an industrial drum roaster, obtained the necessary licenses, and opened for business. Not only would this coffee support their own family, but they would give a portion of the profits away to help support Redemption Road and other great causes. The Harsch’s also saw that they could support international families and communities from whom they sourced their coffees. This is why the descriptions on their coffees are so long. They want you to know the whole story. They want you to know about the people who hand-picked the coffee cherries, and what they are using the profits for in their communities. They offer free local delivery and free shipping on two bags or more.

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huge thank you to Robert Cherini, chef at Parrott’s Sports Grille, for the delicious smoked turkeys and prime rib. YUM! If you need smoked meats for any occasion, stop in at Parrott’s Sports Grille in Firestone or call (303) 774-0700 to find out more on how you can purchase exceptional food for your gatherings. Call soon for Christmas!!

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Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Erie & Mead—Local News & Business Info for Residents

Page 4

Vol. 22, Issue 12

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I GOT THIS: Helping You Simplify Your Life

arrie Copeland, a Carbon Valley resident, helps you simplify, downsize, and make changes so you can grow your enjoyment of life. What would you do with more space in your home, mind, and heart? I GOT THIS sprang up in the spring of 2021, when a few people in the community needed help with some gardening and house painting. Carrie’s name kept rising to the top as someone who was trustworthy and affordable and could assist in a variety of tasks. Those tasks include landscaping, organizing and decluttering, window cleaning, and overall household cleaning projects. Carrie says, “I love helping people declutter. It’s satisfying when they experience the transformation of letting go of ‘stuff ’ that may be holding them back. I’m a good painter and enjoy showing how a coat of paint changes everything. Even something as simple as adding a few new plants in the garden can make a huge difference.” Carbon Valley and the areas surrounding it are lucky to have I GOT THIS servicing the residents. This locally owned, independent business is fair in pricing and excellent in providing quality. “I enjoy seeing my clients happy,” says Carrie. There are many happy clients ready to refer Carrie so don’t hesitate to call her and ask for references. “I have been able to build up my business because of their recommendations. I am forever grateful to them.” When not working, Carrie loves to ski, hike, camp and climb 14ers. She is following in her mom’s footsteps. Her mom is the walker in Firestone. “She’s 82 and has been doing the mileage around Firestone/Frederick for 26 years,” says Carrie. Remember what Carrie says, “It’s just stuff.” Call Carrie Copeland at 401.480.7103 and gain new freedom in your life, with her help.

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Vol. 22, Issue 12

For The Carbon Valley, Mead & Erie—Like us at Facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport

Page 5

Health& WELL BEING Christmas Blessings by Jim Coleman

was the night before Christmas, and all through the church house, not a creature was stirring except the church mouse. The crumbs they were plenty all over the floor, ‘cuz kids and their parents just spilled more and more. Long since from the service they all had gone home, so Mousie could ramble and gobble and roam. And ramble and gobble he did all night long; the church was now silent and not filled with song. This story’s moral is please eat more neat; don’t fatten your church mice with leftover treats. Be sure to attend though with food or without, ‘cuz stories of Jesus need hearing, no doubt. Should you need a church house on this Christmas Eve, just come at 4:30 and start to believe. Some churches are bigger and some they are small, but this one is just right, and you’ll have a ball. Consider this invite and come in the door, we guarantee Jesus will not be a bore!

OK I’ll keep my day job, which isn’t poetry, but I had to try my hand to grab your attention for this article. Christmas means different things for different people, and nothing to some. There is much to be thankful for during this holiday, even if only for time off from work. Family gatherings and good food, sometimes gifts and laughter, and music of the season is heard all around, both secular and sacred. Some folks get depressed due to loneliness, so be sure to go out of your way in spreading good cheer in December. You just might save a life! Some are discouraged because life hasn’t worked out the way they hoped it would. Again, YOU can be a messenger of happiness and pick up their spirits just by smiling and wishing them a Merry Christmas (much improvement over ‘Happy Holidays’, in my opinion). Those who consider themselves Christians should make it a point to act like the Biblical man

Alternative Medicine: Winter

he first day of winter is coming on Tuesday, December 21. Here is some food for thought... The cold winter months are typically the time of year when we rest and quietly reflect a bit more in order to conserve our energy for the burst of outward energy that comes in the spring time. In essence, it is a time for storage, and building up our reserves. In Chinese medical theory, this time of year places emphasis on the Water element, which corresponds to the Kidney and Urinary Bladder. The Urinary Bladder is considered the storehouse of emotions, and is one of the longest channels in the body, running from the head, down the back and legs to end at the small toes. Tension and held in emotions can cause congestion along this channel, which can lead to stiffness and pain. The Kidneys are perceived as storing the energetic life force; birth, life and death, or the cycle of transformation. The seat of willpower is situated here, generating ambition and the desire to do something with one’s life. Lack of motivation can reflect an imbalance in the Kidney energy. Both functionally and energetically, the Kidneys act as a complex filter to keep our system in perfect balance. Physically, they filter the blood and keep the blood and body clean. For example, the delicate water and acid-base balance in the body is maintained by the Kidney. To help maintain a healthy Urinary Bladder and Kidney this winter, maintain your exercise routine. Do not increase the level of activity, save that for spring and summer! Quiet activities such as playing cards and board games, meditation, and slow movement activities such as walking, swimming, yoga and tai qi are best in the winter. Eat cooked, easily digested foods such as soups, stews and root vegetables. Avoid over doing carbohydrates and meats as these cause too much internal heat production (inflammation) in the body. Also, it is especially important to keep the lower back, belly and neck warm! Please feel free to call or write with any questions !For more information visit my website at daisylear.com. Daisy Lear, MSOM, Dipl.Ac., L.Ac., practices Chinese medicine & acupuncture at 1159 Lefthand Drive in Longmont, CO 80501. 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.

What makes a successful New Year’s resolution

he New Year is nearly here. Time for resolutions. Upwards of 70% of people have a New Year’s resolution and nearly every one of those have some component of feeling better, losing weight, or getting in shape. Sadly, only 8% are successful. How can you be more successful? First, write out your personal mission statement. This is your why. Your North Star. Second, write down your goal(s). And lastly, have someone hold you accountable. Goals should be SMAART - Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Accountable (I added this one), Realistic, Time-oriented.

• Be specific - Identify exactly what you want to accomplish. Saying, “I want to look good by next summer” is not specific enough. • Make it measurable – establish criteria for measuring progress. If the goal cannot be measured, it can’t be managed. • Is it attainable – the most important goals should be challenging but still attainable. Saying, “I want to run a marathon next month” isn’t very attainable. • Hold yourself accountable – write down your goal and then tell everyone you know, hire a coach, post your goal on social media. Advertise it! • Must be realistic - This simply means that the goal is within your availability of resources, knowledge, and time. • Time-oriented - Set a time frame. Putting an end point on a goal gives you a clear target to work towards and without that

Ryan, wishing you a Happy 11th birthday on December 1. We couldn’t be more proud and blessed to have you in our lives. You are the best son who fills our hearts with joy, we love you so much. Love, Mom and Dad.

Barnabas (in Acts chapter 4) and do your best ‘Son of Encouragement’ demonstration daily. Of course, there are those for whom Christmas is just a chance to make a lot of money. They willingly work day and night to accumulate cash, and the reason for the season for them has nothing to do with celebrating Jesus’ birthday, just fattening their wallets. And there are a few Ebenezer Scrooges among them, who care only for themselves and don’t give a rip about the less fortunate. Maybe YOU can help someone outside your circle with a ‘hand up’ this year. A unique season it is, and a time to focus on what is really important in life. Of highest importance is our Creator, who gave us our very existence, for which we should daily be grateful. Celebrating the birth of His Son, who offers eternal life to all will accept His gracious offer, should be a high priority too. One reason we at Abundant Life Church have our Christmas Eve service at 4:30 is to accommodate those who celebrate with their families that evening (as opposed

to gathering on Christmas Day), so that they are free to do so. Whatever the time of your chosen Christmas Eve service, do go, and enjoy the reminders of the true and Biblical ‘reason for the season’. Jim pastors at Abundant Life Church, 4380 Highway 66, just 3/10 mile east of Interstate 25 on the south side.

1999-2021

Limited Time Special, The Gift of Health & New Challenge In 2022

re you struggling to find the perfect gift? Not sure what to get someone for Christmas and want to avoid the crazy shopping in person? Then look no further, give your loved one, friend, or even yourself, the gift of health this holiday season. Gift certificates are available in any amount for Personal Training or my ladies only Fitness Group Classes Online: Interval/Strength Training and CoreFirst Training. They can live anywhere (even out of state) and connect with me to help improve their health. I’m offering a Limited Time Special: Purchase a 10 Session Personal Training Package and get your 11th Session Free (30 or 55-Minute Session Packages) Or purchase a 10 Session Fitness Group Punch Card and get your 11th Punch Free (new and current clients, limit 1 punch card). Hurry, these specials must be purchased before December 17th Looking ahead to 2022, the key to your fitness success will be creating a new

there is no urgency to start.

When you are putting together your goals, keep in mind there are different kinds. I recommend one of each. • Outcome goals focus on a tangible and specific goal. For example, losing a specified amount of weight in a specified amount of time. • Performance goals focus on achieving a certain standard independent of others. For example, walking on a treadmill for 30 minutes. • Process goals focuses on actions! For example, including a certain number of vegetables in your meals daily.

Let’s put it all together in an example. A goal maybe, “I want to lost 15 pounds by my daughter’s wedding three months from now. I will accomplish this by walking on the

habit of workouts and healthy eating with a plan in place. I’m telling you this now so you’ll know that starting in January 2022, I have another 10 Week Healthy Weight Loss Challenge that all clients can join. Why not get extra motivation to help you reach your fitness goals? If you want to make healthy changes in your life, then make the commitment and join the 10 Week Healthy Weight Loss Challenge 2022. Registration and weigh-ins for the challenge will be the first week of January 3rd – 8th, 2022. More details about the challenge will be coming in the January cvcr paper, so check back here next month. Make your health a priority. Contact Tracy Rewerts, NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist at

www.TimeForChangePersonalTraining. com or call 303-828-2856.

treadmill or outside for at least 30 minutes a day, six times a week. And I will include at least 5 servings of vegetables a day and drink at least nine, 8oz glasses of water.” When you are tired and don’t want to do your goal, or you have eaten poorly for the last couple days, or you’re just feeling like your off-track, hit that re-set button – revisit your mission statement. And let myself or others help you by giving you the support you need to attain your resolutions.

Lida Johnson, Owner at Head-to-Toe Coaching. Certified Personal Trainer. Certified Nutritionist. Pre-diabetes Prevention Lifestyle Coach. Weight Loss Specialist. Behavior Change Specialist. facebook.com/headtotoecoaching . HeadToToeCoaching.com and Lida@ HeadToToeCoaching.com 203.260.2880.

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ZoeAnn, you bring so much joy into our lives and YES, you are hilarious! We all love you so much. Happy 9th Birthday!

Longmont Office—303.772.2255 1310 Baker Street | Longmont 80501 Since 1969

And they remembered His words. Luke 24:8

Page 6

Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Erie & Mead—Local News & Business Info for Residents

Vol. 22, Issue 12

Real E$tate Re$ource$ Cindy Campbell

512 4th Ave. Longmont CO 80501 303-651-3939

Each office independently owned and operated

Tri-town resident for 23 years 15 Years Licensed Agent

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for all your

Buying & Selling YvetteRealtor teVelde Real Estate Needs yvettetevelde@remax.net 303.775.7186

451 Oak St. Frederick 80530

Your Carbon Valley Expert!

Online Home Valuations

omeowners are often looking online to see what the value of their home is. Everyone is curious about value and how it might be changing and an estimate of the value of their home. It may be from an AVM (Automated Valuation Module) on a Broker’s website, an estimated value from Realtor.com, or a Zestimate from Zillow. All of these are an estimated of the value of a home by a computer program, known in the industry as an AVM. AVMs were initially developed for use by large financial institutions to value large portfolios of loans, and with working with large numbers, the individual errors in valuation don’t matter much. With the recent news of Zillow discontinuing their home purchasing program due to the inability to predict home prices, people are asking: How accurate are AVMs? The “gold standard” for an AVM is to be within 10% of a home’s actual value 90% of the time. Most valuations you see online are in the low 80 percent range. To illustrate how this works, say the property is worth $300,000. The best of the computerized valuations would show an estimated value of between $270,000 and $330,000, 90 percent of the time. The other 10% of the time they would be outside that $60,000 range. Not very accurate! “But it is on the internet, it must be true.” Well, not really. First of all, the computer hasn’t seen the home. Properties vary greatly due to upgrades, condition (good or bad), functionality, and features. The computer is getting its information mainly from public records. Even if a person has the ability to change some of the inputs, do you really know the local market and what buyers are looking for and what they will pay for things? The program then compares the home to other properties that have sold in the area. Here again, the computer hasn’t seen these homes either, nor can it make judgments like a local expert could. The more variation there is in an area, the less accurate the valuation, because the computer doesn’t know the individual neighborhoods or the variation in housing. The value may be more accurate if the home is in a larger subdivision of very similar homes, but it still can’t know specifics about location, buyer or seller motivation and local market conditions. The bottom line is that while and AVM may give you a general idea of the value, you need a knowledgeable, experienced Realtor to look at your home, evaluate comparable sales and the overall market in order to have an accurate price. Have fun looking at online values, but don’t make decisions based on them. Greg Zadel: 2011 Realtor of the Year, Colorado Association of Realtors | 2008 President, Colorado Association of Realtors | Zadel Realty | 303-833-3012 | 8110 WCR 13 S-4 | Firestone greg@zadelrealty.com |

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Tracy Rewerts 303-828-2856

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www.TimeForChangePersonalTraining.com Tracy@TimeForChangePersonalTraining.com

Vol. 22, Issue 12

For The Carbon Valley, Mead & Erie—Like us at Facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport

book discussion &

author talk

Brenda Ridgley

THE PRIDE OF THE GLENS C OALITION PRESENTS

DecEmber 15

6-7 PM

Adults

2021

¡Nosotros regalaremos 3 premios a las casas con las mejores decoraciones navideñas en los Glens! Vota por el ganador en la reunión del aniversario del Orgullo de los Glens el . . .

December 16th 16t 6 h at 6t a 6:00PM 16 de diciembre r a las 6:00PM re

BRENDA RIDGLEY is an author, speaker, and girlfriend guru who loves helping women connect, find success, and discover joy through friendship. Her mission is to start a movement: women coming together to build thousands of new Lady Tribes around the globe. Through her workshops, vlogs, blogs, and book clubs, Brenda helps women connect and communicate with respect, love, and trust. She holds an MA in human resources and has spent decades cultivating her own Tribe. A Colorado girl at heart, Brenda lives in the Carbon Valley area with her husband, Parker, two kids, Parker Jr. and Gillian, and pooch, Perry. She enjoys hiking and has conquered Longs Peak and several other 14’ers. To connect with Brenda, visit her website at www.BrendaRidgley.com.

Registration Required

ConcursoAnual deIluminación Navideña

We will be giving away 3 prizes to the homes with the best holiday decorations in the Glens. Vote for the winner at the Pride of the Glens Anniversary meeting on . . .

Based on her book, Lady and the Tribe, How to Create Empowering Friendship Circles, Brenda will lead a discussion on the myths and realities of friendship and why you need to connect deeper for joy and wholeness.

www.MyLibrary.us 1.888.861.READ(7323)

EL ORGULLO DE LA C OALI C I Ó N GLENS PRESENTA

Annual HolidayLi hts Com etition 2021

Stop the Superficial, Find Deep Friendships, and Be Known by Your Tribe

Page 7

Location Dirección

Casa Cortés Cort r és rt é Mexican Resturant est stura r nt n Res es ra

500 8th St Units A/B Dacono, CO 80514

It's not about how many lights, but how the spirit of the holiday is presented! ¡No se trata de cuántas luces, sino de cómo se presenta el espíritu de la fiesta!

Carbon Valley REgional Library 7 park Ave, Firestone

Brenda Ridgley Book Signing/Reading Dec. 9

hursday, December 9th from 5:30 – 7pm come enjoy a cocktail, glass of wine or a specialty coffee at new local Hot spot Sterling Coffee! Meet local Author Brenda Billings Ridgley as she shares a reading from her new book Lady and the Tribe. Sterling will be introducing their Thursday Happy Hour at this event! Light hors devours will be served. Books will be available for purchase. Get your autographed copy and pick one up for a personalize Christmas gift! Sterling Coffee is located at 8110 Colorado Blvd. S2.

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4/14/21

12:

Page 8

Consumer Report for Carbon Valley, Erie & Mead—Local News & Business Info for Residents

Vol. 22, Issue 12

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.

Carol Dee Hepp

Carol Dee Hepp, 67, of Westcliffe, CO went to be with our Lord November 5, 2021, at Penrose hospital in Colorado Springs, CO surrounded by her husband and children. Carol was born June 16, 1954, to Mary A Vigil and Paul A Hurtado in Denver, CO. She was raised in Firestone, CO and graduated from Longmont High School. Carol married Samuel R Hepp of Erie, CO on September 1, 1973 at St Theresa’s Catholic Church in Frederick, CO. Carol and Sam were an example to many, of a beautiful Catholic marriage. Carol spent most of her life as a homemaker, loving and caring for the needs of her family. Later in life she continued to love and serve people when she took on the challenge of owning Tony’s Mountain Pizza in Silver Cliff, CO. Carol’s Catholic faith was central to who she was and how she lived her life. She passionately believed in the dignity and right to life for all people. She served her faith community as a Eucharistic minister for the sick, teaching religious education, and organizing many events. Carol’s attention to detail and hospitality made everyone feel welcome and special. Carol is survived by her husband Samuel R Hepp; four children, Samantha Carter (Scott), Greg Hepp (Jenifer), Jill Tomassoni, Christie Hepp; eight grandchildren, Danielle St. Michel (Kyle), Stephanie Franco (Gabriel), Christopher Carter, Samuel Carter, Anthony Tomassoni, Gianna Tomassoni, Jacob Tomassoni, Angelica Tomassoni; two

great grandchildren, Ezrie St. Michel, Dominic Franco; siblings, Suzie Marquez (Eppie), Joseph Hurtado (Cathy), Dorothy D’Agostino; numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws and cousins. Carol is preceded in death by her parents, Paul Hurtado and Mary Hurtado; parents in-law, Anthony Hepp, Josephine Hepp; brother, Paul “Dinks” Hurtado; siblings in-law, Larry Luellig, Cindy Hepp, Sharon Hepp, Gary Hepp, Mike Overheiser, Leroy Hoffman, Dean Zaffree; son-in-law Michael Tomassoni; grandchildren, Mary Catherine Tomassoni, Carter Franco; nephews, Harper Kelly, Marco D’Agostino, Joey Irwin, Mark Martinez and Mark Hepp. Funeral services were held at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic church, 109 5th Street Westcliffe, CO. There was a Rosary Vigil on Wednesday, November 17th 2021 at 6:00 pm. A second Rosary was Thursday, November 18th 2021 at 10:00 am followed by Mass at 11:00 am. Interment is at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Cemetery in Silver Cliff, CO. Live Streaming will be offered for those unable to attend. https://youtu.be/mZWuNZYsDD0 In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in honor of Carol to OLA Catholic Church for Cemetery improvements.

PO Box 104 | Johnstown CO | 80534 | 970.587.5003 | contact@1360khnc.com

The Miracle of a Cochlear Implant

June 16, 1954 to November 5, 2021

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Beverly Byrd (as told to Betty Heath)

or those of us who believe, there are miracles that happen around us daily. One such miracle happened to my neighbor, and it is so powerful I wanted to share it with you during this season of miracles. Here is Beverly Byrd’s true story about her Cochlear Implant. About ten years ago I was in my 10-15th year of teaching when something began to change. As I walked through the halls and classrooms, I felt present; I could see the normal things and if I let my fingers slide across the surfaces I could feel the desks, tables, and chairs but I felt like I was becoming a ghost. I was both present and missing. Why? Because I was losing my hearing. The first hearing test wasn’t bad; mild to moderate hearing loss. Not even bad enough for hearing aids to be recommended. However, with my job being speech dependent the decision was made to take the plunge and make the financial investment to purchase hearing aids. In Colorado you can try hearing aids without risk, thank goodness! They are quite expensive, and insurance doesn’t generally cover the cost. Luckily, the first pair fit, and I felt able to rejoin my life as a full participant, fully present and social once again. Unfortunately, it didn’t last. I continued to suffer more severe hearing loss. I began yearly testing and constant adjustments to the hearing aids and ended up having to purchase other higher quality and more expensive hearing aids. The doctors confirmed that my hearing loss is genetic. When I lose some hearing in the right ear the left ear catches up, sometimes in a small amount other times in a larger amount. I lost 40% of my remaining hearing in my right ear during a two-week period. The audiologist said I was nearing the point of the yellow line—the need for a Cochlear implant. It was at this time that the FDA approved Cochlear Implant surgery for patients with single sided deafness. I met with the surgeon, had more hearing tests and a new MRI. The MRI showed irregular bone structure so, I qualified for the surgery. But surgery came with the risk of perhaps permanently going blind. My husband and I refused; hung up the phone and cried. Our hopes of my hearing our grandchildren laugh, sing, and play, was dashed with that one phone call. However, my surgeon, Dr. Nosan at Kaiser Permanente, continued to research and found a safe alternative which we accepted as a miracle find. The implant surgery happened in February 2020 and was activated in March 2020. I heard a strange robotic constant whistle. By the next day, I recognized the whistle as my breathing sounds, remote controls, beeping and clicking, heaters, air conditioners whirring, and dogs barking. I had experienced an amazing outcome. Today I am back to a normal hearing range when I wear my devices and sit in the sound booth (even though real life is nothing like a sound booth). I feel so blessed to walk through the halls and classrooms, hearing, not like a ghost. I not only see the active children, I hear their voices and laughter as well. This Christmas will be special for me when I hear my grandchildren’s voices laughing and squealing with delight as they open their presents. This Christmas I’m thankful I was given the miracle of hearing. Miracles still happen. Sometimes it takes a dedicated doctor to find one.

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