Several years ago, I inherited a few guns from my dad. I never looked or held any of them. I was nervous and wasn’t sure what I was doing. I discovered Triggertime Gun Club and to my relief, they had a woman trainer who o ered basic classes on rearms and shooting! I’m now on my way to becoming a gun enthusiast or at least educated in gun safety.
Lynne Salinkas has been shooting for 12 years and been a trainer for 5 yrs. She is a NRA certi ed trainer for pistol, ri e and concealed carry training. She trains both men and women, but nds focusing on empowering ladies through training more rewarding. She wants to take away the mystique and fear of guns that someone may have.
Training can be learning awareness and proper safety, for personal protection or for enjoyment as a gun enthusiast. Regardless of your interest, Lynne is here to help show you the correct way to handle and use a rearm. So many have learned from a relative, but small details are left out or “bad” habits may have been acquired.
She encourages every gun owner to be knowledgeable in state and local laws regarding guns. Salinkus truly enjoys empowering women, so much so that she started a ladies gun club: Chicks with Guns. All members are vetted thru her for skills and safety. e percentage of woman owning guns has increased in the past few years. A Harvard University study found that the number of woman who own guns increased by 14% in the last ve years.
To start or improve your education about guns, own, or use a gun, Lynne provides small comfortable classes with no more than 5 ladies at a time. ese classes are divided into Step 1, 2 and 3. Classes are held as people signup. You can create your own group or join a group.
Classes are held at Triggertime Gun Club in Longmont (near Del Camino). Paul Gonzales built and opened this gun club in January 2010. With the growth and urban
Rev. Dr. Kay Palmer Marsh Serves Mead
Mead United Methodist Church on July 1, 2024 welcomed their new pastor, Rev. Dr. Kay Palmer Marsh. Rev. Marsh explained that she is thrilled to be called to serve the Mead Congregation - a congreagation of wonderful United Methodists. Mead UMC has been located at 501 Palmer Street in Mead since 1907.
Rev. Marsh has served faith communities in Colorado for thirty-two years. ey include: suburban Westminster United Methodist Church, Heritage UMC in Littleton, Eads and Haswell UMCs in southeast Colorado, Ft Lupton UMC, and Rinn UMC in Frederick. In retirement she served at the UMC-related 500 resident Frasier Meadows Retirement Community as Interim Director of Spiritual Life.
sprawl increasing in the area, Gonzales felt a need for an indoor range. Coming in with a masonry and construction background, he spared no expense in building this stateof-the-art indoor shooting range; with 25 yard pistol and carbine lanes and a spacious 100 yard ri e range. His philosophy is simple: Safe, Welcoming, Expert, and
a onetime membership fee plus monthly fee, all members are equal regardless of outside factors. Gonzales points out, “We see ourselves as shooting sports ambassadors and are very accepting of all.” He knows the classes help ladies feel comfortable and can make a betterinformed decision about whether to own or participate with rearms. However, if a person chooses gun ownership for any reason, he encourages practice, whether it be at a range or elsewhere. Be ready to properly use your rearm. ere are several other gun clubs and ranges, all with di erent styles and views. Picking the right one depends on your views. Here at Triggertime, theyare low key, family oriented, easy going and welcome all who are interested in this sport. For information on classes and services, go to www. Triggertimegunclub.com
Rev. Marsh earned her divinity and doctorate degrees from Ili School of eology in Denver. She has two adult daughters. e oldest is Alexa, a special education teacher who lives in Seattle with her husband and son. Her youngest is Madelyn who recently moved from Chicago with her husband. Both daughters went to Mead Middle School, Skyline High School, and CU Boulder.
e Mead community has grown quite a lot since 1907! Mead UMC is always ready to welcome new people who want to nd a hometown church and are seeking our Lord. We welcome any and all people. Mead UMC is a community of friendly people with inquiring minds! Please visit on Sundays at 9:00 am for worship and for co ee and cookies afterward in the Fellowship Hall!
Kelly MartindalePublisher
What's OnMy Mind
God’s Protection Comes in Many Forms
Housekeeping, print brokering, and daycare were a few of my previous small businesses. After much prayer, I later settled on publishing a local newspaper. e publication took hold in a grouping of three small towns north of Denver. I thought it would survive a year or two. But God had larger plans.
Parents appreciated the birthday announcements and printed photos of their children and the bereaved placed obituaries to alert others of an upcoming funeral, no charge.
Teachers used the paper, applauding their students’ achievements, spouses sent in anniversary announcements, and I wrote articles about business owners sharing littleknown facts about them and why they started their businesses. My community newspaper quickly became the place to promote local businesses through advertising.
As my reputation developed, so did my services. Because of my ability to design the newspaper and advertisements, my clients started requesting business cards, o ce forms, newsletters, and other types of publications.
God Grew My Business
ree and a half years into my business, I realized I’d outgrown my home o ce. I’d heard of a group of men who’d started a computer repair business as a side hustle to their full-time careers. ey worked their side hustle from a commercial space in the evenings. e space was empty all day. is was problematic for the men because customers couldn’t drop o their o ce equipment needing repaired.
I saw this as an opportunity to help each other. I proposed to them that I’d share their space and work in-house during the day. I suggested a trade—my rent for availability to their clients. I had the knowledge to communicate with their customers about their equipment problems, ll out the necessary paperwork, and when the repairs were accomplished, I’d be there for the client to pick up their repaired computer.
e agreement and sharing of space worked perfectly. I purchased a printing press, cutting machine, and other necessary
equipment to run a print and copy store. e collaboration of our two businesses proved better than any of us expected—for six months.
God Changed Plans
Andy, my friend, and head of the men’s business joined me late one afternoon before close of business. It was a Friday. We often visited at shift change, what we called the close of my business and the opening of his. But this day, Andy seemed preoccupied.
Slamming le drawers jolted my calm. He ripped a service order o a computer, read it, taped it back on. He rearranged several pieces of equipment, then roughly poked at his laptop keyboard. He about-faced and caught me watching him.
Turning my chair to my own computer, I attempted to fake work.
“Martinooch!” Andy blurted his pet name for me.
Looking over my shoulder he approached my desk. Pulling a chair close, he sat, his tall Italian frame leaning into my personal space.
Normally full of mischievous remarks and o -color jokes, Andy’s face was grim, holding zero humor. In fact, his look put me on edge.
“Martinooch,” Andy said again. Looking away, he paused again. “Look, I need to let you know that my partners and I are breaking up our business. Immediately.”
“What happened?” I asked.
“We have di erent ideas about what direction to go. We’ve been talking about it the last month and made the decision last night.”
“Oh.” I didn’t know what else to say. I was stunned at the news but relieved it wasn’t worse.
“Now what?”
“Our lease for this space is up Monday. You’ll need to decide if you want to take it over or move out, by Monday morning.”
I had the weekend to decide. oughts crashed around my mind. I’d have to come up with monthly rent. Could I do it on my own? I couldn’t pay rent on Monday. What do I do?
Andy left. My body draped the chair like tar, threatening to spill to the oor. Business
was good. Customers happy.
Spending the weekend praying and seeking God’s wisdom as to what to do, Sunday night brought answers. I knew the Lord was telling me to move my o ce back home. Monday, the men and I moved out.
God Brought Peace
Tuesday morning, I received the call no parent wants to answer. My oldest son was killed in a work-related auto accident. e overwhelming grief would have destroyed my business, had I not already relocated to my home o ce. I would have lost everything.
Instead, the Lord, all-knowing, already set me in a place where I could work as I had the mental and physical energy.
For twenty- ve years I’ve appreciated and enjoyed working from a home o ce while publishing this newspaper and annual magazines. God has shown me how to navigate the world of entrepreneurship and develop positive daily habits. He’s given me a strong work ethic, helped me communicate with every type of person, and grown my skills to accomplish every detail and responsibility of running a business from start to nished product.
God Provides Looking back at a quarter of a century, I shake my head at how fast twenty- ve years passed. Now I look forward to another twenty- ve years as I celebrate the start of the 26th year of the Consumer Report, focusing on Carbon Valley (Frederick, Firestone, and Dacono). I have it in me! Shoot, by the 50th Anniversary of the Consumer Report, I won’t even be 90 yet.
Deadline for Every Issue of the CVCR is the
Has Your Child Died? Local Support Group
If you’ve su ered the loss of a child, you’re invited to join other moms who share this experience. Whether it’s been years ago or weeks ago, we can support each other. Come sit and share or not share. Mark your calendars 12/4 at 6:00pm to 8:00pm each evening. RSVP not required but helpful. At Prairie Greens Clubhouse at 7781 Mountain View Dr. in Frederick, CO 80530. Just drop in, even if you’re running late. We’ll have beverages & snacks and visit with one another. Email Kelly at carbonvalley@gmail.com
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.
Peggy A. Brown
July 11, 1950 to Nov. 11, 2024
Peggy A. Brown (Sandoval), aged 74, passed away on November 11th, 2024, in Lafayette, CO. Born on July 11, 1950, Peggy dedicated her life to nurturing and caring for others, both through her professional and personal endeavors.
Peggy ran a beloved in-home daycare for 18 years, creating a warm and loving environment for the children she cared for. She later transitioned to a role as a billing clerk for St. Vrain Sanitation District, where she continued to make a positive impact until her retirement in 2016.
Known for her warm smile and generous spirit, Peggy cherished time spent with family and friends. She was an avid supporter of youth baseball, relishing the moments spent cheering from the sidelines. Peggy also enjoyed hosting family dinners, shopping for great deals, and spending leisurely afternoons with her friends.
Peggy leaves behind a loving family: son Tom Brown and daughter-in-law Sarah Brown; daughter Amanda Raehal and sonin-law Richard Raehal; grandsons Zeke Brown, Ethan Brown, and Mark Raehal;
granddaughters Sara and Anna Raehal, and Anna’s partner Michael Moritz; along with many cherished nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Gerrie Wacker, and siblings Tom Wacker, Denis Wacker, and Sandy Taylor.
A memorial service will be held at 1st Street Church, 1115 1st St, Fort Lupton, CO, on December 14th at 10:00 am, to honor and remember her life. Peggy’s legacy of love will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew her.
Winter Cozy Clothes Drive Benefiting Our Center
is winter, join us in spreading warmth and kindness by participating in our Winter Cozy Clothes Drive, bene ting the Our Center. We are collecting gently used winter clothing for individuals and families in need, including coats, jackets, gloves, scarves, hats, pants, and shirts. Donations of new socks are also appreciated.
Please ensure all donated items are in good condition—no dirty, frayed, or ripped clothing will be accepted.
To make a contribution, or for more information, please contact Tracy Graham-McClung at 720-272-0183. Donation bags will be delivered between December 7-9, 2024. Simply place your bags of donations on your front porch for pickup on December 20–21, 2024.
Together, we can make this winter a little warmer for those in need. ank you for your generosity!
Sponsored by Michelle Alarcon, loan o cer with Summit Funding and Tracy Graham-McClung, real estate agent with Tracy Sold Mine and Keller Williams 1st Realty.
Lola’s
Kitchen in Frederick
Bienvenidos! We are thrilled to announce the opening of Tacos y Tequila in Frederick! After years of serving up mouth-watering tacos, quesadillas and smothered fries from our food trucks, we’ve found our rst permanent home! Now located at Fifth Street Market place (old Peels Pizza) 206 Fifth Street.
In 2021, we began Lola’s Kitchen as a family-owned and operated business with roots deep in Mexican tradition and a love for bringing people together through food.
With a 1986 Chevy step van, already converted into a food truck, this humble vehicle carried our dreams on its wheels.
Initially serving the Erie, CO, community with our simple menu, our loyal customer base grew. By 2022, we expanded with a second food truck, and our reach spread to Frederick, CO. Our new restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a community hub. We host lively tequila-tasting, trivia, and game nights in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re here for happy hour with friends or a casual night with family, you’ll nd our space upbeat, clean, and welcoming.
e Lola’s Kitchen family recipes are at the heart of it all, lovingly passed down from Dolores ‘Lola’, Jose na. We’re proud to share our faith and heritage with every dish we serve. Our values guide us in creating a warm, respectful, and inclusive environment.
We invite you to experience the avors of Lola’s Kitchen Tacos y Tequila. Open Monday through Saturday starting at 11am.
Keep Up With Local Happenings
If you want to know what’s going on in Firestone, Frederick, and Dacono, LIKE www.facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport and get regular notifications.
FREE Birthday Announcements. Send one high resolution photo w/ “birthday” typed in subject line to carbonvalley@gmail.com by 10th of each month.
Happy birthday my love, best friend, and partner. Enjoy the day.
Zoe, you’re one of the most kind, brave, social, attentive, creative, loving, Godly girls we know. We all want you around all the time! May the next 12 months be filled with unexpected blessings. Happy 12th Birthday!!!
December
2
is month we will be doing a cookie exchange and donation to the rst responders in our area. We will also have our holiday party at our December meeting.
4H registration is open! We are all registering for the 2025 year. We would love to welcome your family to our 4H family.
Recap of events:
• Monthly Freethinkers meeting for November was 11/10, we welcomed 2 new families.
• We had a great turnout at Mardi Gras and had fun seeing a lot of familiar friendly faces. Upcoming events:
• Monthly Freethinkers meeting for December is the second Sunday 12/8 at 4:30. Please contact us for the location. We will be creating cookie boxes for rst responders and having our holiday party.
• January 4th 10am to 1pm - 4H Showcase (open house) at Island Grove Park in Greeley.
If you have questions about 4H please reach out to Rachael Smith at 4rachael.smith@gmail. com or Danielle Lammers at lammers4H22@gmail.com or 720-470-3293 (leave a message). We hope you are all having a fantastic fall. Stop by our Mardi Gras booth and say hi. Firestone Freethinkers 4H Club. (Kenzie Lammers, reporter)
Monica M Baldwin Is Recognized By Raymond James Financial Services With Membership To 2024 Leaders Council
Monica M Baldwin, Financial Advisor located at Main Street Investments, (600 Kimbark St, STE 100, was recently named a member of the 2024 Leaders Council. is marks the seventh Consecutive year that Baldwin has quali ed for this important recognition from Raymond James.
Baldwin, who joined Raymond James in 2003, has over 30 years of experience in nancial services, and represents the client- rst values that the rm proudly applies to every part of business. She provides personalized nancial strategies, wherein individual portfolios are based upon her client’s unique situation, attitudes, preferences, and goals. ese portfolios are designed to account for change so that it works for the client at every stage of their life. Baldwin’s approach to investing is straightforward – it is all about the client. She enjoys helping her clients achieve nancial independence through professional advice, sound risk management, quality investment products, and personal, e cient service.
For more information, contact Nick Baldwin at 303-774-2988 www.raymondjames.com/mainstreetinvestments
Tracy Rewerts CCLC, APSATS Trainee, ADOH Group Facilitator, NASM CPT
Happy Birthday MY LOVES! <3
Longmont Gift of Home Tour
Step into the season’s spirit with the Gift of Home Tour! Tour beautifully decorated homes, discover unique treasures, and shop a curated selection from local vendors. VIP ticket holders enjoy exclusive early shopping access, plus a festive VIP party with refreshments and mingling on December 5 th. For more details, visit our website.
Celebrate the joy of the season with friends and family! General admission for the tour : December 6 and 7. Sign up to volunteer and receive a free ticket! Grab your tickets and experience the magic! More info at Longmont Gift of Home Tour (www.thegiftofhome.org) or 303 682 2485 Ext.108.
Parade of Lights in Carbon Valley
e holiday season is almost here, and we’re inviting residents, businesses, and community groups to light up our annual Festival of Lights Parade! On Saturday, December 7, 2024, the parade will kick o promptly at 5:30 pm and move west on Fifth Street from Maple Street to Main Street. It’s a perfect chance to showcase your holiday spirit, creativity, and community pride. Parade participants will line up for staging between 3:30 pm and 5:30 pm!
The Nutcracker Tea Party
En Face Studios cordially invites you to e Nutcracker Tea Party on Saturday, December 7th. Children and adults alike will enjoy the opportunity to join the characters of the Nutcracker for an afternoon lled with magic and beauty. Enjoy tea, an assortment of scrumptious tea time treats, story time with the Sugar Plum Fairy, dancing, and a special sneak peek performance from our talented cast of the Nutcracker, All Cracked Up.
Every ticket purchased will be entered into a drawing to win two free tickets to the En Face Studios production of e Nutcracker, All Cracked Up at Frederick High School the following Saturday, December 14th.
e Nutcracker Tea Party will take place at En Face Studios, located at 7073 Colorado Blvd in Frederick, on Saturday, December 7th at 3:00 pm.
Advance Reservations are required and cost is $20 per child, includes a Sugar Plum Fairy or Toy Soldier activity box, and $10 per adult.
Spaces are limited so register today!
FIRESTONE
MAYOR, DON CONYAC
Season of Giving for Critical Support for Infants and Toddlers with Developmental Issues
Every year, Dani West Bridal chooses a local business in our community to support during our Season of Giving. is year, we have chosen to partner with Envision. Envision provides Early Intervention services in Weld County, which consists of coordinating critical support to infants and toddlers (birth to three years of age) with developmental delays and disabilities.
Dani West Bridal will be hosting a toy drive to donate gifts to Envision’s Early Childhood Intervention Program from November 16 through December 30th. Brides who bring in a gift to be donated, either wrapper or unwrapped, will receive $100 o their gown purchase on their rst appointment.
Important things to know:
- All gifts will be donated to the Early Childhood Intervention Program, which targets ages birth - 3 years.
- If a gift is wrapped, please specify on the package the age range of the toy/gift and if it is gender speci c or gender neutral.
- All toys/gifts must be brand new and in original packaging, and keep all tags on stu ed animals.
- $100 o wedding gown purchase is only applicable if gown is purchased on the day of the rst appointment, which must take place between November 16- December 30th. Please note that Dani West will also accept gift donations from all parties. If you would like to donate a gift but are not a bride, feel free to text/call us to nd a time to drop o at 303.665.2082. ey are open by appt. only.
Santa Run
Come celebrate FrederickFirestone Fire District’s 20th
Anniversary of Santa Run! A special moment when FFFD brings Santa on a re truck into the community to bring joy and happiness to all. Please visit our website for neighborhood dates and routes and don’t forget to mark your calendars! December 20-22nd, 2024 | Times – 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm Neighborhood dates and routes – https://www.fffd.us/ santa-run
Gas and Diesel Vehicles
10% Discount for all military personnel & first responders (*With valid ID)
Area Mayors’ Report—For those of us who don’t attend meetings
To all Firestone residents I would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
Tis the season for celebrations, gift giving and winter events. On Saturday December 7th, The Firestone Holiday Celebration will be held in Miners Park. You should have already received a flyer for this event on your November water bill. We hope to see at this event. There are other Christmas and Holiday events happening during December. I look forward to seeing at these events as well.
MEAD MAYOR, COLLEEN WHITLOW
Responsible Growth: Renee’s Garden, a leading national supplier of premium garden seeds and accessories, relocated its Boulder warehouse to Mead’s Elevation25 business park in October 2024. This new location along I-25 offers improved access to major highways, boosting distribution efficiency, speeding up delivery times, and enhancing customer service nationwide.
MAYOR, TRACIE CRITES
Merry Christmas, FrederickMay this holiday season bring warmth, joy, and community spirit.
Kick off the festivities at our annual Festival of Lights at Crist Park on December 7, 5:30-8 pm. Enjoy the sparkle of downtown Frederick as the parade makes its way along Fifth Street from Maple to Main. At the park, you’ll enjoy holiday carolers, ice sculptures, and horsedrawn carriage rides as we count down to the tree lighting. While you’re
By the time you read this, the Budget for 2025 will have been approved by the Board of Trustees. I am happy to report to you that at this time, the Town’s Budget will have an approximately 8.8-million-dollar surplus. I would like to thank the town staff for all their work in bringing to the Board of Trustees a well thought out and implementable budget for 2025. This process takes several months to accomplish, and I appreciate their efforts.
If you are not aware, there is a new high speed internet company coming to town. HyperFiber has begun lying Fiber optic lines in the Stone Ridge and Neighbors Point subdivisions. I have been informed that the “build out” of the fiber network will take about a year. I do know they will be coming to the St. Vrain Ranch and Ridge Crest subdivisions after the first of the year. Look for them in your area soon. This is NOT a town project as has been reported. They are an independent company providing highly needed competition here in Firestone.
Reliable Infrastructure: The High Plains Blvd. (WCR 9.5) project is progressing, with plans to construct a two-mile stretch between WCR 32 and WCR 36. The new roadway will feature two travel lanes, dedicated bike lanes, and a 10-foot-wide detached sidewalk. This collaborative effort between the Town of Mead, Weld County, and local developers is scheduled for completion in December 2025.
Public Safety: Mountain View Fire Rescue District has added a Mead location for monthly car seat checks. Held on the third Friday of each month, appointments will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., each lasting 30 minutes. Checks will occur at the Mead Town Hall gravel parking lot, specifically in the east spaces along the 3rd Street sidewalk. Mountain View Fire Rescue will manage all appointment registrations.
Fiscal Stability: The Town of Mead and TBK Bank invite local businesses to “Mead’s Mingle and Jingle,” an appreciation
downtown, stop by Meco Coffee’s grand opening at 318 Fifth Street. We’re excited to welcome our newest businesses, Meco Coffee, Lola’s Kitchen, and The Butternut Kitchen to downtown Frederick. The FREDerick family is here to support and celebrate your success as you grow and thrive!
In the spirit of giving, consider brightening a family’s holiday through the Santa Cops program. The Frederick Police Department is accepting donations (cash, check, or credit card) at 333 Fifth Street, Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm.
As a reminder, the Board of Trustees will hold a second public hearing for the proposed 2025 budget on December 10 at 7:00 pm in the Board Chambers at Town Hall (401 Locust St.). This is a key opportunity for you to share your thoughts, ask questions, and help shape our budget priorities. For more details, visit frederickCO.gov/Budget
Thank you to everyone who has joined me during my new Mayoral Office hours for great conversations. I look forward to connecting
Over the course of two years, the Town Manager has been working with the town staff and with the direction of the Board of Trustees to implement the Town of Firestone “Work Plan”, this plan is broken down into several categories. In each of the categories, there are goals that have been agreed to that will need to be accomplished. These goals are further broken down into one-to-two-year goals and three-to-five-year goals. You will see a link to this work plan in the January issue of the Firestone Voice.
I also want to wish all of you a Happy and Safe New Year.
As always, your can connect with the town using our website www.firestoneco.gov , on Facebook @ firestonecolorado, On Istagram @firestonecolorado, LinkedIn @ townoffirestone and on NextDoor @town-of-firestone.
event on Wednesday, December 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at TBK Bank. Local business owners can enjoy dinner, raffle prizes, and opportunities to connect with fellow business owners. This event is part of the Town’s ongoing commitment to fostering a robust local economy and enhancing the “Built for Mead” economic development initiative, designed to empower businesses as the town grows.
Connected Community: Get ready for Mead’s annual Christmas in the Park on December 7 from 2 to 5 p.m., followed by the Parade of Lights! This year’s celebration includes curling, mini-train rides, a Holiday Pop-Up Market, and the Mead Area Chamber of Commerce’s tree drawing. Enjoy festive treats, shop local vendors, and take a photo with Santa! Stay updated on Mead’s projects and news by subscribing to our monthly Mead Messenger and signing up for email notifications: bit.ly/mead-emails. If you are new to Mead, check out the Resident Information page at bit.ly/47PocLg
again in December to discuss what matters most to you. My December hours are December 12, 10:30 to noon.
As we prepare to bid farewell to 2024, the Town will be counting down Frederick’s Top 10 Accomplishments of the year! It’s been a year of incredible progress, from the adoption of our Comprehensive Plan – which is a guiding framework for future land use, housing, multimodal transportation, parks, trails, infrastructure, and community facilities – to major improvements completed on roads, water systems, drainage, and retail amenities that promote long-term sustainability. We also launched a new performance dashboard to inform residents about our ongoing progress. With heartfelt gratitude, I thank Frederick residents for committing tax dollars to invest in our community’s future.
Here’s a wonderful holiday season and an exciting year ahead for Frederick!
FREDERICK
Health&WELL BEING
Food for the Soul: Building Fence-
By Jim Coleman
As a wanna-be farm boy from Iowa, I still have in my 78-year-old bones to keep my hands in the soil (gardening), and the fences xed on my ‘huge’ 5 acre wanna-be “farm” west of the town of Berthoud.
OK, so it is acreage property more than a real farm, but I manage to raise a few beef steers to sell beef quarters and a few swine to sell pork and a few hens to produce eggs along with the occasional meat bird (Rock Cornish). It keeps me happy to do so and reasonably healthy (if you don’t count stage 4 prostate cancer). But at present I’m not dead- only mostly dead. I’m not writing this article for purposes of sympathy but to tell of the goodness of the Lord.
Anyway, I have been getting some posts re-set and putting the metal rods back in place in the corral fence beside where the steers are loaded for their trip to the butcher. Indian summer (as we called fall in Iowa) is the perfect time with warm weather in the afternoons. But I haven’t decided yet if I will get more steers this fall, as it depends on my health.
For the present I am working full-time, between church and my Longmont company, and feeling no pain in so doing. For those of you wondering why a 78-year young fellow is doing so, I will tell you I’m not eager to retire so long as I can make a positive contribution to society (and I’m not drooling all over myself), plus I don’t have a pillowcase full of money either. So I plan to continue as I have the ability.
Now to make the application of my current status to Biblical principles.
Proverbs 3:13 says as follows: “How blessed is the man who nds wisdom and the man who gains understanding. For her pro t is better than the pro t of silver, and her gain better than ne gold. She is more precious than jewels; and nothing you desire compares with her. Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways and all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who hold her fast.”
I have lived the past 54+ years following the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and Lord, and it has been a life of tremendous blessing. We’ve lived in 4 states and visited 7 countries, raised 10 children, have 35 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren, with more on the way. Did I mention I’m still being blessed with my rst wife (of 56 ½ years)?
A full life according to Scripture is three score and ten, or if by strength eighty; and I’m headed for the ‘if by strength’ part. I’m neither wealthy nor poor by American standards, but incredibly happy and full of joy.
In summary, I have enjoyed a ton of real life, with Jesus doing the leading and providing and peace-giving. I would only change one thing in my life IF I COULD, and that is to have sooner trusted in the Lord before age 23. But no one can change the past, and I’m glad I nally ‘saw the light’ and accepted Christ. And I truly hope that you will too (if you haven’t), because life begins anew when you have Jesus as best Friend. So, keep your fences repaired, and allow your Heavenly Father room in your life for maximum enjoyment and accomplishment. You’ll never regret doing so.
Jim pastors Abundant Life Church, 4380 Hwy 66, just .3 mile east of I25. Join us Sunday at 10:00 am if you don’t already have a good church home. You’ll be glad you did. I promise. Check out our website at www.alcworshipwarriors.org
A Country Christmas at Rinn Cowboy Christian Fellowship (The traditional songs you know and love.)
Wednesday 12/4, 7pm Nashville recording artist, Aubree Bullock/Neeper singing your favorite songs of the season with a Christmas message by Brett Dennis.
Wednesday, 12/18, 7pm
An hour of uplifting 4-part harmony by the popular New Life Quartet. Songs guaranteed to soothe your soul.
Wednesday, 12/11, 7pm
Barry Ward returns with his heartfelt stories & songs from middle America. Christmas, the way you remember.
Benefits of Movement & Exercise
Movement should be a part of your everyday life. Whether that’s doing household chores, taking the stairs, or walking to the park; all your movements add up each day for great health bene ts. You can do this by trying to get 10,000+ steps in each day.
Movement in the form of exercise can help improve your mood, self-esteem, sleep, reduce stress and anxiety, and decrease your risk of many health-related diseases. e more time spent in nature doing any exercise the better.
Moderate exercise (where you’re slightly winded, but can still carry on a conversation) is the best for your health, along with consistency, is all a part of a healthy lifestyle. e sweet spot is 20-40 minutes of strength training three times per week.
Join my Interval/Strength Training Classes on Mondays and Fridays at 9:30am where you’ll use your body weight, perform dumb bell exercises, and do short cardio intervals throughout the class. en try the Cardio Dance Class on Weds at 7pm; it’s low-impact, easy to follow, and you’ll get over 2,000 steps in toward your daily total.
If you’re looking for a customized plan, I o er Personal Training which includes one-on-one accountability, guidance on how to do each exercise (with modi cations if needed), and health coaching to help you reach your tness goals. I have a 12-year proven track record of guiding women back to a healthy routine to optimize your health.
As you commit to your health and tness journey with determination and consistency, you’ll witness real changes in your body composition and overall well-being.
Are you ready for a sustainable plan with a healthy routine, workout plan, and accountability? en contact Tracy Rewerts NASM Certi ed Personal Trainer, WFS, CES, AFS at www.BeginLifeAnew.com/groupfitness-classes or call 303-828-2856 for more information.
December 7•10am-4pm
9th Annual St. Vrain Christmas Walk
It’s time to mark your holiday calendars! Come and enjoy this wonderful community event. It’s a dazzling light display along the three quarter mile walking path, lit up to celebrate the wonder of the Christmas season. e dates for the organized events are:
e rst weekend dates are Friday Dec. 13th and Saturday Dec. 14th. e second weekend dates are Friday Dec. 20th and Saturday Dec. 21st.
e Walk will begin at 6:00pm and ends at 8:30pm all four nights.
Please come and enjoy the beautiful walking path between Saddleback Ave. and Sage Ave in the St. Vrain Ranch subdivision.
You can enjoy a cup of Hot Cocoa or Hot Apple Cider along with a Christmas cookie. On Fridays you can see Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus on the east end of the Walk located right o Shenandoah Ave. and on Saturdays they will be at the HUT on the west end of the walk. Once again, the Chick-Fil-A Christmas Cow will be making its appearance. Fridays at the HUT and Saturdays on the east end of the Walk.
On Friday Dec. 20th the singing group “TAKE NOTE” will be performing at the HUT. Look for them around the 6:30 time frame. On Saturdays at the HUT, a dance group from Legacy School of Dance will perform just before Santa arrives.
3783 Bella Rosa Parkway, Frederick (Refreshments provided)
Please note for safety reasons. St. Vrain Blvd between Saddleback and Sage Avenues will be blocked to vehicle traffic during the time of the Christmas Walk. Please plan accordingly.
Look for updates on Facebook at stvrainchristmaswalk
Love offering for musicians gratefully accepted.
We want to thank all the residents who live on the walking path for helping to make this event happen. God Bless You.
Tips for Navigating the Holidays with a Loved One with Memory Loss
When your loved one, or someone you care for has memory loss, here are some tips for the holidays that can help you both navigate and enjoy the season.
1. Assess with soft judgment. Look ahead to the season’s expectations and allow yourself to pick and choose what makes sense to do or not to do.
2. Communicate in advance. Connect with people you will be seeing beforehand to explain how things are going and what to expect when visiting the person a ected by memory loss.
3. Allow for extra travel time. Plan how you are getting from point A to point B, how long it will take and will you have help? Ask for assistance from the airline, if ying, with everything from curbside escort to passenger boarding. If driving, allow for rest stops and stay with the person to avoid disorientation.
4. Bring extras. Clothing, medications, diversion tools, etc. New or familiar locations with lots of people can be disorienting. Having extras of favorite things, including snacks and liquids can be helpful.
5. Look for ways to reduce overstimulation. When someone is in the earlier stage, they may enjoy all of the activities, but to someone with more advanced or later stages of memory loss, having activity around them can be overwhelming. Bringing a loved one to the table after everyone is seated, or in later stages of memory loss, having them in a quieter space with the opportunity for one-on-one interaction may be more ideal.
Other tips include simplifying traditions when needed, get respite support by involving family members who can lend a hand, and take advantage of free community events that may bring joy and meaning to you and your loved one. Try to allow yourself to appreciate what is positive and here right now. Wishing you peace in this season. Lindsay Adams is a Certified Senior Advisor with CarePatrol. She can be reached at (720) 485-5114. Tips provided by Megan Carnerius, of Memory Care Consulting, www.MemoryCareConsulting.com
Real E$tate
Re$ource$ Amortization
If you own or are thinking of purchasing a home and borrowing money to do it, you have likely heard the term amortization regarding the loan. In this context, amortization refers to calculating the monthly payment necessary to repay the principal (amount borrowed) and the interest in equal installments over the period of the loan. For example, what is the payment if I borrow $400,000 over 30 years at 6.5% interest?
e equation to make that calculation looks like this:
With A being the periodic payment amount, P being the principal
amount, i being the interest rate and n being the total number of payments.
But of course, most of us will use a calculator or the internet to nd out the answer is $2,528.28 per month. at is the payment necessary to pay the loan o over the entire 30 years. It is often referred to as the Principal and Interest (PI) portion of your payment.
Each amount of monthly interest is calculated on the outstanding principal balance at the time, so over the years, the interest portion of your payment decreases as the principal portion increases. In this example, in the rst month, the interest amount of the payment is $2,166.67 and the principal is $361.61. After 10 years (the 121st payment), interest is $1,836.82 and principal is $691.46. It is not until payment 233 that the amounts ip with interest of $1,262.00 and principal of 1,266.28. e nal payment is almost all principal ($2,514.65) and interest of only $13.63.
You can cut way back on the interest you pay on a loan by making extra principal payments. For example, if you paid an additional $200.00 in the above example, you would pay o the loan in 293 months instead of 360, over 5 years early!
Greg Zadel, CRS, CRB, GRI, ePro: 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
Jerry D’s 2.0 Now OPEN
By Linda Allour
Over three years with nearly 7 days a week of hard work, Jerry D’s 2.0 is back OPEN!! A grand opening was held on Saturday November 2, 2024. Mother Nature seemed to be excited as well, providing a beautiful fall day perfect for the gathering with the Band “Junkyard Dawgs” playing in the back patio area.
Originally built in 1938, it was originally a two pump gas station with living quarters in the back on highway 52 in Dacono Colorado. In 1985, Jerry DeNovellis turned the building into the infamous “Jerry D’s” bar in Dacono. After about 30 years, he decided it was time to sell. e rst buyer had management issues, then with other bumps along the way combined with COVID, it lead to the temporary closure of the Bar. Jerry DeNovellis (left) reclaimed the building and equipment and resold it to Brad Linkus (right) in 2020. Linkus owns IMI Motorsports Complex in Dacono and has been a customer of Jerry D’s since 1988. With visions of upgrades, he took the opportunity for the purchase. As a tribute and to keep the same feel, Linkus named the bar Jerry D’s 2.0. Making his vision a reality involved code reviews, permits, and solving unexpected problems. Linkus along with a fellow friend/ employee did 90% of the work, excluding repairs/upgrades requiring a licensed tradesman.
It’s fantastic inside! Just about everything is NEW. The walls, the flooring, the entire kitchen, the bathrooms (with the addition of an ADA bathroom too), and back pathway concrete repair. Still part of the décor are the old pictures that have graced the walls since the beginning. Entertainment still includes the shuffle board, pool tables and skeet ball machine. Of course, live music is part of the entertainment May thru October (weather permitting).
Although known as a gathering place for motorcycle enthusiasts, Linkus says it’s just a “sports bar with everyone welcome.” He plans to eventually have live stream races from his IMI Motorsports track and from Colorado National Speedway (Dacono).
Open from 10am to 2am, a small menu of juicy burgers, wings, burritos, tacos, Italian sandwich and pizza with homemade dough will be o ered. To quench your thirst Jerry D’s 2.0 serves the usual spirits and beer (can, bottle and tap), but plans to o er a local beer from di erent breweries each month. So, Brad, how’s it feel to nally be open? “A stress relief!”
Come on down to relieve your own stress at Jerry D’s 2.0 – 604 8th Street, Dacono.
MeCo Coffee Collective
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, 318 5th Street in Frederick, CO is well on its way to be revived and rejuvenated by MeCo Co ee Collective and Zilla’s Pizza and Subs. Shane Stinn and Isaac Olson, of MeCo, crave the community connections and family environment and when the opportunity came about to look into breathing life back into such a glorious space, there was no hesitation. Todd and Jenny Mead of Zilla’s Pizza share in the same passions and desires to help grow our local towns and communities. Opening in early November, with a Grand Opening Market in collaboration with Frederick’s own Martha’s Market on December 7th, MeCo Co ee Collective and Zilla’s Pizza and Subs will be providing a family centric space for all generations to come and enjoy locally roasted co ee and homemade pastries in the morning, beer, salads and East Coast Deli sandwiches in the afternoon and cocktails, pizza, appetizers and hot subs in the evening. In the Spring and Summer, get ready to relax in the spruced up Beans & Beer Garden or enjoy a more intimate setting up on the rooftop patio! ere will even be an arcade for the kids and all ages! Private events and space rentals will be available and don’t forget to follow us on all our socials @mecoco eecollective and @zillaspizza. Come resurrect this community space with us!
Carbon Valley Multiple Sclerosis Support Group
e Carbon Valley Multiple Sclerosis Support group meets on the third Saturday of each month at the Carbon Valley Library, located in Firestone, at 10 AM. ese are Meetup formats, where all can ask questions, share experiences, or just chat with others who also battle MS. Caretakers and partners are welcome, as are people from our neighboring communities like Fort Lupton, Mead, Erie or Longmont. If you know of someone that has MS, this is a safe, handicap accessible location that welcomes their participation. No need to drive to Denver, Fort Collins or Boulder anymore, this is our local group!
Group Fitness Classes
Join us for Interval/Strength Training Class Mondays & Fridays at 9:30am, Cardio Dancing Weds at 7pm. See website for details and how to sign up. Give yourself the gift of health with Classes, Coaching, & Personal Training. Visit https://beginlifeanew.com/group-fitness-classes/ or call 303.828.2856. Tracy Rewerts, NASM Certi ed Personal Trainer & Corrective Exercise Specialist.
Help Mead Elementary
Mead Elementary is a PK - 5th grade public school within the St. Vrain Valley School District located in Mead, Colorado. e Mead Elementary Parent Advisory Council (PAC) is a group of dedicated parents, grandparents and guardians that work to support Mead Elementary School through its many volunteer and fundraising initiatives. e PAC will be hosting its 6th annual spring fundraiser on Saturday, March 29, 2025. is event includes a silent and live auction and raises crucial funds for our school that will directly serve students and teachers. Examples of things that the PAC has supported in the past include class eld trips, additional positions to allow teachers a lunch break, and enrichment supplies and resources for students and teachers. We expect approximately 200 guests at this year’s auction and hope it is our most impactful yet!
We appreciate everything this community brings to our school, and are hoping to partner with you! Sponsorships and donations are needed for this event. Mead Elementary PAC is a charitable non-pro t organization de ned as a 501(c)(3) entity in the IRS Code (Tax ID 84-1287690).
You can provide an in-kind donation that will be up for bid at our auction such as a gift card and/or merchandise from your business. As a thank you for your generosity, the PAC will recognize you on our fundraiser website. If your company would rather support our auction through a corporate sponsorship, further details of sponsorship opportunities are outlined on the following page.
Our donation deadline is March 14, 2025. To con rm your participation or if you have any questions, please reach out to Lauren Macauley at 281.415.4635 or lauren.c.macauley@ gmail.com. Our auction committee is happy to pick up donations, or they may be mailed directly to our attention at the following address: Mead Elementary School, Attn: Spring Fundraiser 520 Welker Ave. Mead, CO 80542
ank you for your time and generosity. Your support will help us continue to improve education opportunities for the children at Mead Elementary School! Jordan Gillmore, Erin Dienes and Lauren Macauley. 2025 Mead Elementary PAC Spring Fundraiser Committee”
