The Lost Creek Guide January 20, 2021

Volume 14 • Edition 02

January 20, 2021

Delivering 9,800 copies to rural Adams, Morgan, and Weld Counties

“Truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains taken to bring it to light” George Washington “If we are to guard against ignorance and remain free, it is the responsibility of every American to be informed” Thomas Jefferson

COVID Vaccines In Colorado: Your Always Up-To-Date Guide To Finding The Info You Need

By Francie Swidler, CPR News What are the different vaccine phases in Colorado?

State of ColoradoColorado’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan as of Dec. 30, 2020 As of Dec. 30, Colorado’s vaccine distribution plan is broken down into four sections: Phase 1A, Phase 1B, Phase 2 and Phase 3.

Phase 1A: Frontline health care workers that have direct contact with COVID-19 patients for 15 minutes or more Staff and residents of long-term care facilities (vaccinated by the federal government’s Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program.)

Phase 1B: All people 70 and older Health care workers who have less direct contact with COVID patients (like home health care workers, dentists, pharmacists, Rita Maes awoke east 5 a.m. and was the first in line for Otero County Health Department’s mass COVID-19 vaccination driveEMS) through clinic for those 70 and older at the Arkansas Valley FairFirst responders (like grounds in Rocky Ford on Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2021. police, firefighters and Hart Van Denburg/CPR News correctional workers) Funeral service workers Frontline essential workers* (like teachers, food and agriculture, manufacturing, postal workers, transportation, grocery workers, human services workers, care providers for people experiencing homelessness) Essential state government workers Essential frontline journalists Phase 2: People 60-69 People 16-59 with certain pre-existing conditions or are high risk (obesity, diabetes, chronic lung disease, cancer, immunocompromised) Other essential workers and state government workers Adults who received a placebo during a clinical COVID-19 vaccine trial Phase 3: People 16-59 *Essential workers are defined in Colorado’s public health order from March 26, 2020.

“Frontline essential workers” are not however defined.

How are different people prioritized in each phase?

Right now, we only know how Phase 1 is prioritized.

On Jan. 5, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment directed public health agencies to focus their efforts on prioritizing vaccination for outstanding highest risk health care workers in phase 1A, along with moderate risk health care workers and first responders in phase 1B. All other vaccine providers, like hospitals, health systems, pharmacies, clinics and correctional facilities are directed to focus on vaccinating people 70 and older — the first group in Phase 1B. Once providers finish vaccinating those groups, providers will be ready to vaccinate teachers and other essential workers listed in phase 1B. How long will each phase take?

Vaccinations in Phase 1 (that includes A and B) are expected to conclude in February, according to a timeline released by Gov. Polis during a Jan. 6 press conference.

More specifically, the majority of Phase 1A health care workers in the state are expected to be vaccinated by Jan. 15, according to an announcement from CDPHE on Jan. 5.

For the first part of 1B — Coloradans 70 and older — the state’s goal is to have 70 percent of that group vaccinated by February 28th.

Frontline essential workers, like teachers will follow, likely in early March.

Vaccinations in Phase 2 are expected to take place in the spring of 2021, and vaccinations in Phase 3 are expected to take place in the summer of 2021.

What phase is Colorado in right now?

As of Jan. 12, Colorado is in Phase 1.

On Dec. 30, Gov. Jared Polis announced that some counties have completed their vaccines for Phase 1A, and were ready to move on to the beginning of Phase 1B and start vaccinating people over the age of 70.

However, vaccine supply in Colorado is still limited — while a county may be ready to

move to Phase 1B, it may not yet have enough doses to vaccinate everyone in that group.

Polis said it will take 4-5 weeks for all Coloradans over 70 to get vaccinated.

Why is the vaccine rollout taking so long?

On Jan. 7, the general leading the Colorado’s distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine said that the holidays slowed efforts, but that the coming weeks will see a dramatic increase in the number of Coloradans getting injections.

In a Jan. 12 press conference, Gov. Polis indicated that each week, Colorado expects to receive around 70,000 vaccine doses, but that’s not always what’s delivered — and that makes it difficult to plan more than a week in advance.

I’m over 70 years old. Where can I make a vaccine appointment right now?

Some of Colorado’s largest counties — like Denver, Jefferson, El Paso and the counties that part of the Tri-County Health Department (Adams, Arapahoe and Douglas) — have not indicated they are ready to vaccinate people over 70. You should check with your doctor’s office or your provider to be sure.

As of Jan. 12, here are the counties that have started accepting vaccine appointments for adults over 70 as part of Phase 1B. Information about how to make appointments are linked below: Alamosa, Bent, Chaffee, Cheyenne, Clear Creek, Conejos, Costilla, Crowley, Custer, Delta, Dolores, Eagle , Elbert, Fremont, Garfield, Gilpin, Gunnison, Jackson, Kit Carson, Lincoln, Logan, Otero, Park, Pitkin, Pueblo, Rio Blanco, Saguache, Silver Thread (Hinsdale and Mineral counties) , Summit, Teller, Washington Additionally, Denver Indian Health and Family Services has a limited COVID-19 vaccine supply from Indian Health Services, and is working to vaccinate those over 70.

Do we need to add to this list? Email us at health@cpr.org My county isn’t on that list. How do I find out when the vaccine will be available for me? Can I pre-register for an appointment? What’s the process?

It’s not entirely clear yet how or if you’ll be notified — but you can visit your county’s public health website or call them for more information. You can also start following your county’s Facebook page for updates.

In some counties — Las Animas and Huerfano, Boulder, Broomfield, Grand, Larimer, Mesa, Montrose, Ouray, Routt, San Miguel and counties in San Juan Basin Public Health to name a few — you can pre-register for a vaccine appointment, or sign up to be notified when the COVID-19 vaccine becomes available for your priority group.

Cont. on Page 2, See COVID-19 Vaccines in ColoradoYou can also call the state’s COHELP vaccine hotline, at 303-389-1687 or 877-462-2911. The hotline is available

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE:

Page 2: Way of the World Page 3: Weld County Chair, Pro-Tem and Department Heads Named Page 4: Payback Page 6: Colorado Pedestrian Deaths up 89% Page 8: Colorado’s New Unemployment System Page 10: Premier Farm Credit to Return $4.5 Million to Patron-Members

Page 2

– Way of the World –

Lost Creek Guide

by Bob Grand The building that houses the United State Supreme has an inscription: “Equal Justice for All”. I believe in that. The FBI is investigating over 170 people for being involved on the attack at the capital. I believe people have a right to demonstrate, this is America. They do not have a right to violate the law. They should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law possible, to send a message. This is America, you can protest, that is your right You do not have the right to harm others in any way. I have to ask, in all the cities that experienced rioting, destruction and violence this past year, where is the vigor to make sure there is justice for all, not just one particular group. That is why the statues of justice wear a blindfold. We should not have two tiers of justice, one for the Trump supporters and the other for perceived anti Trump people. .

Our country is pretty well split politically. We have to overcome that if we are to move forward as a country and get back on the road to recovery. We have survived as a nation because we respected our institutions. It is ironic to hear Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer cry such fowl on the assault on the capital, and they are right, but is not the Presidency one of those valued institutions. Not the man, but the office? The hate for Trump, the man, had been overwhelming, but the Office of the President deserves respect.

As such the new President deserves an opportunity to succeed. Make no mistake he has an exceedingly difficult road ahead. The COVID 19 issue is far from resolved. The vaccines are coming. If you are in a targeted group and have tried to find out where and when you can get vaccinated, be prepared for a journey. The system is complex, and it will take some time. President Biden will soon realize that being President does not mean everybody loves you, even in your own party. People expect immediate results. The President is one person, words are nice, but results are what people expect.

Domestically the President’s plate will be very full, given COVID 19 and the economy.

We have created a massive increase in debt. What will the plan to begin to address that, while still fueling the economy? On top of that there are several major foreign policy situations. The Chinese are increasingly paying a price for their activities. There economy is suffering because of the COVID 19 issues but more importantly their trade situation is not boding well for them. Their trade dispute with Australia and their retaliation on Australian coal has backfired. China is now suffering power outages because they do not have enough coal to power their power plants. Manufacturing jobs are leaving, much the same as what happened to the United States. The Chinese are under increasing pressure on their activities of suppressing the Uyghars population on their western side of their country. The Chinese leader is certainly facing challenging times. This may explain and give credence to a report that the Chinese Army is placing self-destruct devices in the helmets of their troops. That certainly appears to give a significant level of control.

The President’s new cabinet is one with a lot of representation from the Obama presidency and certainly the democratic party faithful. We will see if they will be up to the tasks. This is no simple time. In all of this I would hope that someone begins to address the catastrophic failures of our major cities. The answer is not pumping money in, it is addressing the root causes of the issues. The City of Chicago and now being chased by New York City as examples of ineffective city government. I do not believe it is the federal governments job to fix the problems but how do you hold elected officials accountable when nothing changes or worse, continues to lead greater deterioration of the quality of life for its citizens.

This past election cycle has shown me that the major parties, the Democrats, and the Republicans, are more focused on preserving their elected positions as opposed to seriously addressing the challenging issues that citizens are facing. When we will we hold them accountable for their actions, or worse their inaction?

President Biden won the election, not by much, but he won. We need to give him a chance to succeed. Many are skeptical, about half the population, that is just a reality.

Somebody should look into the allegations of voter fraud, not to unseat the newly elected President, but to solidify the faith in the system of the American people, all of them. Do I think there was some improprieties? The answer is yes, enough to change the election result, probably not. We should not ignore examining the issues because it happens to involve President Trump.

All Americans, of whatever party, should be concerned that we should have equal justice for all. That is the American way, and we should all support it.

As always, your thoughts and comments are appreciated: publisher@lostcreekguide. com

The Lost Creek Guide, Llc Bob Grand - Publisher 303-732-4080 publisher@lostcreekguide.com Our deadline is 7 working days before publication

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January 20, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccines in Colorado

Cont. from Page 1 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Colorado has established a vaccine website to help answer your questions as well. It should be updated as more information becomes available.

You can also contact your doctor›s office, medical provider or local hospital — many are accepting appointments and contacting current patients. Here›s how: Banner Health: Larimer, Logan, Morgan, Weld, Boulder Community Health, Centura, Denver Health, HealthONE, Kaiser Permanente (see more below), Northeast Colorado Health Department, Rio Grand Hospital, or call 719-657-2418, San Juan Basin Public Health, Safeway, Salud Family Health Centers, Sedgwick County Health Center, Southwest Health System, SLC Health, or call 303-812-2051, UCHealth, Vail Health, ValleyWide Health Systems As of Jan. 12, here are the Kaiser Permanente locations providing the vaccine — to both members and non-members: Aurora Centrepoint Medical Offices, Briargate Medical Offices, Highlands Ranch Medical Offices, Lakewood Medical Offices, Lone Tree Medical Offices, Longmont Medical Offices, Loveland Medical Offices, Parker Medical Offices, Pueblo North Medical Offices, Rock Creek Medical Offices, Skyline Medical Offices, Westminster Medical Offices, Wheat Ridge Medical Offices KRCC Managing editor Andrea Chalfin and other newsroom editors and reporters contributed to this guide.

COVID-19 Outbreak Data from CDPHE Update

January 20, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

2021 Weld County Chair, Pro-Tem and Department Coordinators Selected

WELD COUNTY, CO — Today, the Weld County Board of Commissioners welcomed two new commissioners and one incumbent was sworn in. Commissioner Lori Saine and Commissioner Perry Buck joined the board for their first term, while Commissioner Mike Freeman was sworn in for his third consecutive term.

As required by the Weld County Home Rule Charter, the Board of County Commissioners must elect a Chair of the Board and Chair Pro-Tem at the start of their first annual meeting each year. The board elected Steve Moreno to serve as the Chair for 2021 and Scott James to serve as the Chair Pro-Tem. The Chair presides over meetings of the Board of Commissioners; the Pro-Tem presides over meetings in the Chair’s absence.

The board also appointed Commissioner Coordinators for each of the county’s major departments. According to the Charter, the Departments of Finance, Purchasing and Personnel are to be coordinated by the Chair of the Board.

The 2021 coordinator roles are as follows: Commissioner Steve Moreno: Departments of Finance Administration, Purchasing and Human Resources (with Commissioner Scott James as the assistant coordinator) Commissioner Scott James: Departments of Health, Information Technology, and Public Safety Communications (with Commissioner Mike Freeman as the assistant coordinator) Commissioner Mike Freeman: Department of Public Works (with Commissioner Steve Moreno as the assistant coordinator) Commissioner Lori Saine: Department of Planning Services (with Commissioner Perry Buck as the assistant coordinator) Commissioner Perry Buck: Department of Human Services (with Commissioner Lori Saine as the assistant coordinator) Appointments to advisory boards were also made today: Commissioner Steve Moreno: Weld County Bright Futures Board; Greeley-Weld County Airport Authority; and Upstate Colorado Economic Development Board.

Commissioner Scott James: 911 Emergency Telephone Service Authority Board; Weld County Bright Futures Board; North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization;

Weld County Health Department Continues to Provide Vaccinations to Phase 1 Groups, Works with Local Health Partner to Prepare for Next Steps

Weld County, CO – Continuing its efforts to provide vaccinations to high-risk frontline healthcare workers and first responders, the Weld County Department of Health and Environment (WCDPHE) has received and administered approximately 400 vaccines. When paired with vaccines provided to area hospitals and healthcare facilities, an estimated 6,400 Weld County residents have received the vaccination for COVID-19. This number represents about 2% of the population, which is on par with the vaccination rates across Colorado.

In December, WCDPHE staff, in coordination with the county’s Office of Emergency Management, prepared and released a survey to the local medical society, dental society, and first responders such as law, fire and EMS through the Health Alert Network and the county’s ReadyOp system. The survey was crucial in coordinating and planning vaccine distribution to the state’s Phase 1A and 1B list locally. To date, 226 Weld County agencies have responded to the survey and coordinated a time a location to receive vaccinations for individuals in their agencies.

As the vaccine continues to roll out nationally, Weld County is receiving limited doses from the state. Because of this, local health partners are working together to make sure individuals who are eligible to receive the vaccine are contacted and scheduled. Regular meetings and updates among WCDPHE, Banner Health, UCHealth, Salud Clinics, Sunrise Health and Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCL) continue to be held to ensure the most efficient processes are in place for vaccine distribution.

These meetings are valuable as the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is direct shipping vaccines to these organizations. The communication and coordination of this group will help reduce duplication of efforts and ensure the most complete coverage possible for efficient movement through the state’s vaccination schedule. WCDPHE is also working to expand the distribution capacity throughout the county by helping other providers get enrolled with the state to be able to receive and distribute the vaccine.

Phase 1 vaccinations will continue to occur over the winter months, and as more vaccines become available, WCDPHE will continue to focus on working with frontline workers and hospitals. Hospitals and healthcare agencies will work with the 70+ population.

The following groups are currently eligible to register and receive COVID-19 vaccination: Phase 1A - Highest risk healthcare workers and individuals: People who have direct contact with COVID-19 patients; Long-term care facility staff and residents Phase 1B - Moderate risk individuals and 70+ population: COVID response personnel; Police and Firefighters; Correctional facility workers; Emergency medical service personnel; Funeral services workers; Healthcare workers; Long term care facility staff; Long term care residents For more information: For general questions about COVID-19, including vaccinations, healthcare partners who are also providing vaccinations, please visit: https:// www.weldgov.com/departments/health_and_environment/2019_novel_coronavirus/vaccine_information.

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CJAC Criminal Justice Advisory Committee; and Pre-Trial Services Advisory Board.

Commissioner Mike Freeman: CJAC Criminal Justice Advisory Committee (alternate member); Federal Mineral Lease Act Board; Greeley-Weld County Airport Authority; and Regional Communications Advisory Board Commissioner Lori Saine: E-470 Public Highway Authority; Extension Advisory Council; and Island Grove Park Advisory Board.

Commissioner Perry Buck: Human Services Advisory Commission; Emergency Food and Shelter Program Board; North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization (alternate member); and Upstate Colorado Economic Development Board.

To learn more about the Weld County Commissioners, please visit https://www.weldgov. com/government/elected_officials/board_of_county_commissioners.

Why should you question the experts?

Dr. Faucci stated the first week of January that the COVID 19 virus was no more than a bad cold.

Following are some predictions from the experts we were told: Wear masks and keep social distancing. Immediately followed by a demonstration on tv that a cough or sneeze with a mask could travel sixteen feet. We were told it would protect you but not others. Next in an interview the head of the CDC stated that the mask was more effective than a vaccine. A reporter asked would it help people in the work force area with smoke particulates. His answer was no, the smoke particles were too small. The diligent reporter asked what was the particulate size compared to the virus? His answer was the virus was one tenth the size of the smoke particles. The young reporter asked do you even think about what you are saying. Do not have to be a genius to know that if it won’t keep the smoke particles out it is not going to keep the virus, which is one tenth the size of the smoke particles out.

I am sure everyone has seen and heard these two items but because we are visually mesmerized. We hear what is said but do not really listen. Then they said this hydroxychloroquine would kill us all. They got so far out there the Atlantic Journal of Medicine had to print retractions and this is in spite of the fact in most of the world you can buy it over the counter, like aspirin. They threaten doctors who reported successful mitigation.

One doctor reported he tested 300 patients in a nursing home, and none died. Another doctor was not as lucky, he had 78 patients and one died. He pointed out that some of the patients would have died in a few days without the virus. Wear the mask if you have anxiety but do not expect it to protect you.

An older citizen who would like to believe but ……

Edwards Flowerland has your Valentine’s Day covered!

1201 East Platte Ave. * Ft. Morgan, CO 80701

Page 4

Healthy Weight Week!

Lost Creek Guide

Weld County, Colorado – It’s time to celebrate the new year, a new you, and a healthy weight. Each year, Healthy Weight Week (January 17-23) focuses on this by encouraging the public to make wellness a lifestyle by consuming nutritious foods and living actively. The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) is encouraging the public to join the cause and celebrate their health by following these tips: 1. Get a Move On: Dance, swim, jog, or take a brisk walk to start the week. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests the average American adult exercise for two hours and 30 minutes per week. Find an aerobic exercise you love, and you won’t want to miss a sweat session.

2. Drink Water: Drinking water when you’re thirsty and with meals can help you keep a normal temperature, feel more focused, and help your body rid itself of waste.

3. Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for six to eight hours of rest each evening. Sleeping not only helps you feel more rejuvenated but also reduces your stress levels. Go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at a similar time each morning to reap the most benefit.

4. Derail Your Stress: There are several ways to overcome the stress and anxiety that can contribute to weight gain. The CDC suggests avoiding drugs and alcohol, confiding in loved ones, participating in social events, eating a well-balanced diet, and becoming active in your community as ways to manage stress.

5. Snack on It: Snacking is imperative for weight management, but you must choose snacks that fuel your body. The CDC suggests choosing fruits and vegetables for snacks since they are low-calorie and filling, like a cup of baby carrots or a banana.

6. Just “Be”: Live in the moment for a few minutes each day. Carving out time in your day to relax and enjoy life is imperative for true happiness.

You can change your lifestyle and get to a healthy weight. Start with small changes, get professional help if necessary, join up with friends, and celebrate your hard work.

For more information on resources WCDPHE offers the public to support healthy eating and active living, go to https://www.weldgov.com/departments/health_and_environment/health_education_programs.

Payback

January 20, 2021

By: Bill O’Reilly Imitating the bloody baptism scene in The Godfather, anti-Trump zealots are coming with guns blazing. The horrendous display of sedition and treachery at the nation’s Capitol has provided some leftists with a license to figuratively kill and they are locked and loaded.

President Trump is the primary target and he is badly wounded with more pain to come. Mr. Trump is obviously loathed by many powerful people and is now stripped of defenders. Those who would even grant the President a fair hearing are putting themselves at risk.

Mr. Trump’s failure to tamp down the angry protestors supporting him in Washington has destroyed his legacy. The Trumphaters are screaming that he “encouraged” the violence but I believe that’s false. The President is an opportunist and smart enough to understand that a calculated violent attack on Congress in his name would destroy him.

Because of his bitterness over the election and the unprecedented press mistreatment he’s received, the President has lost all perspective and personal discipline.

Not an excuse, just accurate analysis. I know the man.

Now we have even more hatred. Let me ask a simple question: do you think Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer care about “bringing the country together?” Of course they don’t. They want to punish Donald Trump and every single one of his supporters by ginning up another impeachment fiasco that they know will light yet another fuse in this nation. Joe Biden has not signed on because he understands the brutal consequences of totally emasculating his predecessor, a man who garnered 74 million votes.

I’m not even going to address the corrupt media which believes its reckless disregard of facts and perspective is a moral obligation. But social media? Now, that’s a different story. Pun intended.

I agree that violent threats and defamation must be policed by Silicon Valley. But denying the President and others the right to express opinions is dangerous to the nation. Companies have a perfect right to “flag” what they deem as inaccurate. But punishing political expression is obviously unconstitutional. The corporate media uses anonymous, unverifiable sources every day and social media aggressively distributes that. We are in a danger zone here that may require Congressional scrutiny.

It is beyond any doubt that the assault on Congress by Trump supporters has created a national emergency. We are descending into the madness of irrationality. In addition, the anti-Trumpers are now exacting vivid revenge and there doesn’t seem to be any cease fire in sight.

And so our divided nation turns to you, Joe Biden. Defuse it. As best you can.

The Effort to Humiliate Trump and His Supporters

By: Bill O’Reilly Nancy Pelosi is moving to impeach President Trump for a second time, on the grounds that he “incited” the assault on the nation’s Capitol.

That is an opinion, not a fact. It can never be established as fact.

If you read Trump’s speech, he clearly called for his supporters to “peacefully” march to the Capitol to show their displeasure with the election.

You can say it is irresponsible. You can say he should not have done it. You can say it is provocative.

But if you say he fostered violence, you are lying, because there is nothing to back that up.

So, what is the impeachable offense?

This impeachment effort is about humiliating President Trump and his supporters – not uniting the country.

Donald Trump, in his four years, did a lot of good for this country.

He lost it after the election – but if you voted for him based on his policies and accomplishments, you have nothing to be sorry about.

Anti-Trump zealots are trying to “cancel” you – but you have nothing to be ashamed of.

Community UMC Reopening for Worship

By Linda Meyer, CUMC Pastor On January 17, 2021, Community United Methodist Church in Keenesburg reopened for Sunday worship. Weld County’s Covid-19 numbers have been falling for over a month, and the positivity rate is now approximately 9.5%. It was over 16% in mid-November.

Based on the falling number of cases of Covid-19, especially in the Keenesburg-Hudson area, we decided to reopen worship to all of our members and neighbors. The positivity rate in southwest Weld County is between 3% and 6%, depending on the location.

Everyone who attends worship must wear a face mask. Masks may be removed once you are seated in a pew. Households need to sit at least six feet apart from other households. Some pews have been roped off to allow for space between households. We still need to be cautious we are not spreading any viruses, whether it is a slight cold, or influenza, or Covid-19.

For those who are not able to attend worship, Community UMC’s worship services are livestreamed on our Facebook page. Worship videos will be available on our YouTube channel later on Sunday.

January 20, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

Adams County High School Firefighter Program the Result of Strategic Partnership with Aims Community College

GREELEY, CO – January 11, 2021 – A firefighter training program is training up to 50 teens a year thanks to a strategic partnership that includes Aims Community College.

The firefighting program opened last fall in Thornton as part of the FutureForward program at Washington Square. The partnership includes Aims Community College, Adams 12 Five Star Schools, and city leaders in Thornton and Westminster.

The program is unique because trainees leave the classroom to experience real-world scenarios. Washington Square students learn basic emergency response services and gain exposure to real fire scenarios, including working on a fully equipped fire truck donated by the city of Thornton.

Graduates of the two-year program emerge fully prepared for a career in the fire service, join the military or go on to college with many of their basic requirements fulfilled, explained John McDougall, fire science program director at Aims Community College.

“Our goal is to get them to Aims for more education when they’ve completed their high school program,” McDougall said. “They can come in as a first-year freshman with a lot of electives knocked out and at no cost to them since they’re enrolled in high school for the firefighting program.”

Three years ago, Adams 12 was turning away students who wanted to join the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. The district planned a new building and designed programs to accommodate student interest and the demand for trained firefighters regionally, explained Marvin Lewis, principal for FutureForward at Washington Square.

“We knew we wanted to partner with Aims, “ Lewis said. “They had everything we wanted in our program — certification, college credit and employment if that’s what (students) want.”

Students attend fire service classes at the Washington Square campus near 126th Avenue and Washington Street in Thornton. They then return to their home campus when their career courses end.

“I am extremely proud that we established this program, “ said Aims Fire Academy Director John McDougall. “By having these high school programs, students complete electives sooner, so they come in as a first-year freshman and have knocked out half of their electives by completing the fire academy.”

About Aims Community College Aims Community College is one of the most progressive two-year colleges in Colorado.

Founded more than 50 years ago in Greeley, Aims has since established locations in Fort Lupton, Loveland and Windsor. Curriculum now includes 4,000 day, evening, weekend and online courses annually in more than 200 degree and certificate programs. Aims Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Aims Community College is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution. www.aims.edu

Planning for Colorado Hemp Center of Excellence Underway

Page 5

The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) has awarded the contract for development of a strategic plan for a state Hemp Center of Excellence to MPG Consulting. The selection was based on the recommendation of an independent review committee, which included a member of the Colorado Agriculture Commission, a member of the Hemp Advisory Committee, and other leaders and experts in Colorado agriculture and purchasing.

The strategic plan will be completed by July 2021.

“We are very excited about moving forward with the development of the Center of Excellence and are confident that MPG Consulting will be a strong partner in helping us and our many stakeholders advance the hemp industry in Colorado,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg.

CDA is committed to elevating industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity, a priority since the launch of Colorado’s nationally-recognized Industrial Hemp Program in 2014.

The collaborative development of the Hemp Center of Excellence aligns with the Department’s mission to strengthen and advance Colorado agriculture, and hemp industry stakeholders will be participating in the strategic planning process.

About MPG Consulting MPG Consulting is an internationally recognized corporate strategy and policy advisory firm that has shaped regulated hemp and cannabis markets in 27 states and 10 countries including Colorado, California and Canada through strategic advice, research, and analysis. The firm supplies factual, data-driven assessments regarding market conditions, policy effects, and the economic evolution of the emerging hemp and cannabis industries.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture exists to support the state’s agriculture industry and serve the people of Colorado through regulation, advocacy and education.

Our mission is to strengthen and advance Colorado agriculture, promote a safe and high-quality food supply, protect consumers, and foster responsible stewardship of the environment and natural resources.

8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Page 6

Lost Creek Guide

Hello from the Wiggins Cornerstone 4H Club!

Our club has approximately 19 members and their ages range from 6 to 15. Randall Rumsey and myself, Christine Sears, are the club leaders, and it is a pleasure to work with our 4 H members! We have some new members joining us this year that we have been unable to meet yet because of the Covid-19 restrictions, but are hoping to have an in person meeting in February! 4H offers many wonderful and exciting projects and its not just raising livestock! Our members have participated in a variety of projects through 4H. Projects such as leathercraft, cake decorating, model rockets, sewing, creative cooks, home environment, market beef, goat, lamb, and swine (and that›s just naming a few!).

We also have members participate in breeding animal projects such as breeding beef, dairy and poultry. Some of our members even raise and exhibit their own animals. This past year has been a challenge for all of us. Our members, with the support of their parents, have been hard working, dedicated to completing their projects, and should be very proud of their work! We look forward to this 4H year!

kinnearinsurance@outlook.com

January 20, 2021

Study: Colo. Pedestrian Deaths Up 89%

Fatalities increase for the first time in three decades.

DENVER (Jan. 12, 2021) - The number of pedestrians killed annually on Colorado’s roadways has nearly doubled since 2008, per new analysis from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and AAA Colorado. That surpasses a 55 percent nationwide increase in pedestrian deaths over the same period. All told, across the country, more pedestrians lost their lives in 2018 than in any year since 1990.

“We’re lucky to live in Colorado, where we cherish our active lifestyles – and where there are so many good reasons to leave the car at home and run, walk or bike. That pedestrian deaths here outpace the national average should ring alarm bells,” said Skyler McKinley, director of public affairs for AAA Colorado. “As we continue to grow, drivers, pedestrians and, most importantly, governments need to do more to protect our most vulnerable.”

The report’s key findings include: • In Colorado and across the country, the startling jump in deaths occurred almost entirely in urban areas, much of it at mid-block locations along arterials (major roads designed to move large volumes of traffic). Urban crashes account for 93 percent of the total national increase in pedestrian fatalities.

• Non-white populations are over-represented among pedestrian fatalities. Deaths of Black and Hispanic pedestrians increased by a larger amount than white pedestrians on a percentage basis.

• Nationwide, pedestrians killed at non-intersection locations without crosswalks rose 70 percent from 2009-2018.

• Three of every four pedestrians killed on U.S. roads in 2018 were struck in darkness. Fatalities in darkness also account for the vast majority of the overall increase in pedestrian fatalities since 2009. The number of pedestrians killed in darkness in 2018 was larger than the total number of pedestrians killed in any and all lighting conditions in 2009, 2010 or 2011.

• 84 percent of all pedestrian fatalities in 2018, and 84 percent of the overall increase in pedestrian fatalities over the study period, occurred on roads with speed limits of 30 mph or higher. Past AAA Foundation research has shown that when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, their chances of survival drops precipitously with each additional mile per hour increase in speed at speeds above roughly 25 mph.

• Alcohol remains a problem among pedestrian fatalities, as 32 percent of all pedestrians who died had a blood alcohol concentration equal to or greater than the legal limit for driving. Still, sober pedestrians’ fatalities increased by a larger amount over the study period, both in raw numbers and on a percentage basis. The number of sober pedestrians killed in 2018 was nearly as large as the total number of pedestrians killed in 2009.

“As we work to eliminate preventable tragedies on our roadways, it’s imperative we avoid a blame game between pedestrians and motorists,” McKinley said. “The bottom line is that everybody has the same right to use our transportation infrastructure without fearing for their life. The data suggest that pedestrians should take care to cross at crosswalks, when possible. Drivers, in turn, need to be more vigilant – especially in urban areas, and especially at night. Finally, governments must seriously evaluate lowering speed limits and changing roadway design in pedestrian-heavy corridors. We can reverse this trend, but it’s going to take working together.”

Safety Tips for Drivers • Look out for pedestrians at all times. When you are operating a vehicle, you have accepted a heightened responsibility for other people on the road. Safety is a two-way street. Often, pedestrians— especially younger ones— are not where you would expect them to be. Remain vigilant.

• Follow posted speed limits, especially in areas of heavy pedestrian traffic. This is even more important in areas that have lower speed limits, such as school zones and neighborhood streets where pedestrians may appear suddenly.

• Overall visibility is limited in bad weather conditions and poorly lit areas. Not only is it more difficult for drivers to see oncoming pedestrians, it also is harder for pedestrians to see you. Make sure your lights are on and you use your signals properly. Use extra caution in these circumstances.

• Put down your phone. Smartphones and handheld electronic devices take your eyes off of the road and distract your attention.

• Always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk. When approaching a crosswalk, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop. When you are stopped at a crosswalk, allow enough room between your vehicle and the crosswalk so other drivers can see the pedestrians you have stopped for. Do not pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk: They have stopped to allow pedestrians to pass or make sure the way is clear.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians • Never assume a driver will give you the right of way. Make every effort to make eye contact with the driver of a stopped or approaching vehicle before entering the roadway.

• Use crosswalks when crossing the street. If a crosswalk is unavailable, be sure to find the most well-lit spot on the road to cross and wait for a long enough gap in traffic to make it safely across the street.

• Stay on sidewalks whenever possible. If a sidewalk is not available, be sure to walk on the far side of the road facing traffic. This will help increase your visibility to drivers.

• Know and follow all traffic rules, signs and signals. You need to be aware of the rules vehicles around you must follow to properly anticipate what drivers will do.

Colorado Pork Producers to hold election for 2021 Pork Act Delegates The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2022 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place at 9:00 am February 22, 2021 in conjunction with the 2021 annual meeting of Colorado Pork Producers Council at the Morgan County Fairgrounds in Brush, Colorado beginning at 9:00 am.

Any producer, age 18 or older, who is a resident of the state and has paid all assessments due may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participate in the election.

All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted.

For more information, contact Colorado Pork Producers Council, PO Box 116, Lucerne, CO 80631, (970) 356-4964, jkelly@copork.org.

January 20, 2021

Colorado is about to Change its Coronavirus Vaccine Priority List — Again

People between the ages of 65 and 69 could receive the vaccine sooner under the changes

Lost Creek Guide

John Ingold, The Colorado Sun — johningold@coloradosun.com Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said Tuesday that the state will soon announce more changes to its priority list for the coronavirus vaccine, with people between the ages of 65 and 69 and possibly others being moved up.

The changes are in response to new guidance from the federal government, which will also recommend giving greater priority to adults of any age with serious underlying medical conditions.

At a Tuesday news conference, Polis said the state will “of course” adopt the new federal guidance. Polis said those ages 65 to 69 will likely become eligible in a couple weeks to receive the vaccine. Polis’ office later announced that the state will release a new priority list next week and sounded a more cautious note on the timing for when the new priority group would become eligible.

But Polis also said the state doesn’t want the new group to leapfrog ahead of seniors age 70 and over.

“We do want to prioritize those who are most vulnerable.” Polis said. “And there is a difference between a 60-year-old, a 70-year-old, an 80-year-old. … We don’t want to squeeze out an 82-year-old for a 66-year-old.”

Another complicating factor is that the federal government plans to change how vaccine doses are allocated to the states. Currently, they are distributed based solely on population. Representing roughly 1.7% of the U.S. population, Colorado is currently receiving 1.7% of the vaccine supply — around 70,000 doses per week to be used as first doses.

But at a Tuesday press briefing, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar said, starting in two weeks, doses will be allocated based on a state’s population of people 65 and older. The pace at which people are being vaccinated in the state will also be taken into consideration.

The new allocation method “gives states a strong incentive to ensure doses are going to work, protecting people rather than sitting on shelves or in freezers,” Azar said.

It is unclear what this will mean for Colorado’s supply of vaccine. Colorado ranks in the middle of states for the number of people age 65 and older. But Colorado has one of the smallest populations of seniors as a percentage of the total population. Meanwhile, Polis has repeatedly touted Colorado as being among the leading states for the percentage of vaccines that have been administered After a Tuesday afternoon phone call with federal officials, Polis’ office released a statement noting that Colorado “will not be making any changes to our vaccine program until we can get concrete details on supply quantities, timelines for receiving that supply and engaging our partners who are on the ground administering the vaccine.” Nonetheless, the statement said the Polis administration is “actively planning how we can scale up and expand eligibility in anticipation for receiving more supply of vaccines. “ The changes could further top-load the state’s priority structure. Almost every place in Colorado has finished vaccinating their high-priority health care workers — designated Phase 1a in the state’s current plan — and moved onto the next group, Phase 1b.

Phase 1b — which contains an estimated 1.3 million people — is currently split into two halves. The top half of Phase 1b includes first responders and all adults over 70 years old. The bottom half includes frontline essential workers such as teachers and grocery employees.

People ages 60 to 69 and adults of any age with underlying medical conditions are currently included in Phase 2 of the state’s plan, which is scheduled to start in spring.

According to estimates from the State Demography Office, there are approximately 288,000 people in Colorado ages 65 to 69. It is unclear how many Coloradans would be considered to have underlying medical conditions that qualify them for higher priority, but an earlier draft of the state’s vaccination plan suggests it could be as many as 1.5 million people.

Polis did not answer a question about whether the new priority structure will bump teachers and other essential workers further down the list.

Federal officials also announced Tuesday that they will begin delivering all available doses of vaccine to the states, rather than hold some back to cover the necessary booster shots needed for the current vaccines, made by Pfizer and Moderna. The federal government intends to rely on increases in production to make sure enough doses are produced on time for the booster shots.

Polis has said he would welcome that change, and Colorado hospital leaders said they are ramping up their ability to deliver the vaccine.

“The limiting factor right now is the supply of vaccines coming into the system,” said Peter Banko, the president and CEO of Centura Health, which expects to be able to vaccinate more than 22,000 people per week by the end of February.

“Reagan was optimistic about America amid the cynicism and general retreat of the post-Vietnam era because he believed unfashionably that America was both great and good -- and had been needlessly diminished by restrictive economic policies and timid foreign policies. Change the policies and America would be restored, both at home and abroad. He was right.” – Charles Krauthammer (1950-2018) writing in the Washington Post on June 11, 2004.

Wagoneers News

Page 7

Wyatt Wilcox, Monday, January 4, 2021 The Wagoneers 4-H Club met on Monday, January 4th.

Unfinished Business Discussed: Weld County 4-H Officer Training- 4-H Club officers can attend the annual officer training at the 4-H Building at Island Grove Park in Greeley. It will be held on Thursday, February 4th at 6:30 PM. New Business Discussed: Canned Food Drive- Thank you to the Chapman family for volunteering to deliver the donations from the food drive.

4-H 101- 4-H 101 is an educational program where families can learn about being in 4-H. This is a great event for new families in 4-H. This event will be on Feb., Thursday 25 at 6:00 PM, and dinner is provided. Please make your reservations (Call 970-400-2076)

by Friday, Feb. 19th.

Weld County Fair Camping Reservations- On Monday, January 11th at 8:00 AM, you can make a camping reservation for the WCF, first come, first serve. To reserve a spot please call Nancy Gogreve at 970-400-2085.

Beef ID Day- This event will be on Saturday, February 20, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Producers Sale Yard in Greeley.

Camp Cloverbud- Camp Cloverbud is on Saturday, Feb. 6 at the Exhibition Building in Island Grove Parks, Greeley. Due to COVID-19, there will be a morning and an afternoon session with 25 campers each. There can only be Weld County 4-H members.

Shirts- Wagoneers Club members have voted for a new design and color for club tshirts.

Please remember to check out the county newsletter for additional information about Weld County 4-H events and activities. Congratulations to Wesley and Ben Swieter for being recognized in the Weld County 4-H Member Spotlight for their Shooting Sports projects!

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Lost Creek Guide

January 20, 2021

Colorado’s New Unemployment System Flags Thousands of Claims For Fraud, Likely Including Some Innocents

By Andrew Kenney The state labor department completed the installation of new software for the unemployment system on Sunday, including a fraud detection program that flagged thousands of benefits requests as suspicious.

The anti-fraud system looks for 27 attributes of suspicious accounts, ranging from claimants who are older than 100 years old to people listed in public records as deceased.

If an account has several of those “triggers,” payments are frozen.

Out of about 32,000 claims for payment on Sunday, the anti-fraud system flagged about 20 percent. Anyone wrongfully flagged should call 303-536-5615, which is a state unemployment support line.

Colorado Department of Labor and Employment has been using the anti-fraud component for months in one unemployment program, Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.

But with the system-wide software upgrade, the same measures will be applied to the regular unemployment program.

That could put a stop to millions of dollars in payments to criminal groups, but it also will temporarily suspend benefits to an unknown number of people wrongly caught in the software-powered net.

People flagged by the system’s earlier iteration have faced months-long waits for review, though Colorado officials are working to accelerate that with additional software.

The state is working to license an AI-powered system that could comb through cases flagged by the anti-fraud system. The software could verify identities en masse and would likely restore benefits more quickly for most people, but the details haven’t been confirmed. California has embraced such a product, though it still has faced complaints about delays.

Fraud has run rampant in unemployment systems across the U.S., with national and even international criminal groups using stolen identities to extract hundreds of millions of dollars from unemployment systems.

“It is going to be critical to us to stop the bleeding of fraudulent activity within the regular UI system, but what it’s going to mean is that some innocent claimants are likely to be caught up,” said Cher Roybal Haavind, deputy executive director of the state labor department.

That can be a painful experience. People flagged for fraud under PUA have gone weeks or months without benefits, awaiting review by the department’s investigators.

Despite that, Haavind said that the fraud detection system has been accurate so far.

Well over 400,000 claims for fraud have been flagged in the PUA system, and about 5,000 were found to be legitimate after review.

The new PUA program was a ripe target for fraud because its identity requirements were relatively loose at first. When the first round of PUA expired late in December, Colorado and other states reported a wave of apparent fraud in their regular UI systems as scammers apparently switched targets.

“On behalf of Colorado employers who are paying these benefits and the people whose identities are getting stolen to file these fraudulent claims, we have an obligation to do something,” Haavind said. “And we believe this new system will enable us to do that, where our previous outdated system did not.”

The launch of the new software system was a milestone for the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. Besides fraud detection, the changeover should solve frustrations with the previous, antiquated software that claimants and support staff used.

The upgrade also should speed the implementation of extended unemployment benefits. But it still may be weeks before the new system can pay out the 11 weeks of new benefits approved by Congress, staff said.

For now, benefits are only available to people who haven’t exhausted their regular 26 weeks of unemployment.

January 20, 2021

Understanding the Debt

Lost Creek Guide

When the federal government runs a deficit, Treasury borrows money to make up the difference between spending and revenue. Then, if special funds like the Medicare trust fund have surpluses, the “extra” revenue is lent to the rest of the federal government.

The federal debt is the total amount of money that the federal government owes, either to its investors or to itself. At the end of fiscal year 2019, the total federal debt was $22.8 trillion dollars.

An overview of what the federal debt is, and what it isn’t.

How the Federal Government Borrows Money The federal government borrows money from the public by issuing securities—bills, notes, and bonds—through the Treasury. Treasury securities are attractive to investors because they are: Backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government Offered in a wide range of maturities Exempt from state and local taxes Mostly marketable, meaning they can be resold in the financial market (a small portion are nonmarketable and can’t be resold, like U.S. Savings Bonds).

Investors can easily trade Treasury securities because there are many people interested in buying and selling them at any given time. Investors are willing to pay more for this safety and liquidity—leading to lower borrowing costs (interest on the debt) for the government.

Here is a breakdown of the investors and holders of intragovernmental debt (debt held by government accounts): Fiscal Year 2019 Debt Held by the Public and Intragovernmental Debt More than 75 percent of foreign holdings of Treasury securities can be attributed to 14 countries. China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) and Japan have the largest holdings.

However, this does not mean that residents of these countries are the ultimate owners.

The data only identify where the securities are held. Obtaining accurate information on the actual foreign owners is often not possible, because chains of foreign financial intermediaries are often involved in the custody or management of these securities.

Managing the Debt Treasury’s overarching debt management goal is to ensure the federal government’s financing needs are met at the lowest cost to taxpayers over time. To achieve this goal, Treasury issues a variety of marketable securities in sufficient amounts to ensure the liquidity of each, and maintains a regular and predictable auction schedule. This schedule provides investors with greater certainty and better information with which to plan their investments.

Source: GAO Why Debt Management Is Challenging Constantly changing financial markets — Treasury must consider the volume of securities to be issued at a given maturity in relation to changing market demands for Treasury securities. If the Treasury offers too much of any given security, it may have to pay a higher yield to attract investors. If the Treasury offers too little of a given security, it may reduce the security’s liquidity in the secondary market, which, in the long run, may also increase the yield Treasury has to pay.

Uncertain future borrowing needs — Policy changes and national economic performance are difficult to project and can quickly and substantially affect federal cash flow. For example, policy responses to external events like recessions, war, and emergencies (e.g., natural disasters such as hurricanes) can dramatically affect borrowing needs.

Uncertainty about the debt limit — The debt limit (the statutory ceiling on the amount of total federal debt) is suspended through July 2021, at which time it will need to be either suspended again or raised. Delays in suspending or raising the debt limit can create debt and cash management challenges for the Treasury. Treasury has often used extraordinary actions, such as suspending investments or temporarily disinvesting securities held in federal employee retirement funds, to remain under the limit. For more information about the debt limit, read our WatchBlog post, “Debt Limit 101.”

Refinancing the debt — Interest on the debt is one of the main causes of future fiscal unsustainability. As of September 30, 2019, 61 percent of the outstanding amount of marketable Treasury securities held by the public (about $9.9 trillion) was scheduled to mature in the next 4 years. Treasury will likely need to refinance these securities at higher interest rates. This indicates that Treasury needs to consider the mix of longer-term and shorter-term securities that it offers. Longer-term securities typically have higher interest rates but provide more certainty, while shorter-term securities have lower interest rates but need to be refinanced more frequently.

Thinking About Solar

Page 9

BY ROBERT BARANOWSKI , MANAGER OF MEMBER SERVICES Thinking about solar? Here are some frequently asked questions: Q: I will never receive an electric bill from Morgan County REA again, right?

A: There will always be a $28 facilities charge each month on residential accounts. So, even if you generate more electricity than you use in a given month, you will always receive a bill for the $28 facilities charge.

Q: Will I be able to “sell back” electricity to Morgan County REA? A: MCREA banks any excess electricity generated during any given month against later months’ kilowatt-hour usage. As solar generation systems cannot generate electricity overnight, MCREA acts as your “battery” and provides power during off-peak production and overnight. Systems generate the most electricity during sunny days in the middle of the summer, so as production decreases as expected during the fall, the banked kWh credit offsets usage in future months.

Q: Will I get a check from Morgan County REA for power I sell back onto the grid?

A: Not necessarily. While we do have a few customers who receive small checks in January to “true up” any remaining banked generated electricity, most consumers generate less power than they consume in a year, and do not typically receive a check from MCREA. Those few who do have remaining banked kWh at year’s end are reimbursed in mid-January for that balance at MCREA’s avoided cost, which is around 7 cents per kWh. Q: How large is the federal tax credit for a solar installation?

A: For the rest of 2020, the credit is 26% of system cost for systems installed in the calendar year 2020. You must be the owner of the system and cannot have a lease payment with a solar company. In 2021, the tax credit drops to 22%.

Q: Where can I learn more about MCREA’s net metering policies?

A: Please visit our website at mcrea.org and click on the Service Center drop down menu. There you will find the Net Metering link, where you can find additional information about the net metering program, and even download a PDF net metering application that can be filled out electronically. For any additional questions, please give our Member Services Department a call.

Here are some questions you should ask a potential solar installation company: Q: What should I know before I sign a contract?

A: If you are purchasing a rooftop solar array, be sure to ask…

What is the total installed (turnkey) cost of the system?

What is the payback period? What are the assumptions under¬lying that estimate?

Will I need to finance the array?

Who gets the tax credits (the “renewable energy credit”)?

Will I receive “free” electricity once panels are paid for?

Does the company offer warranties on panels AND Inverters?

What are the details of the service contract?

A: If you are leasing panels in a rooftop array, be sure to ask …

What is the upfront cost of the system?

Are there other customers in the vicinity with comparable systems? How much electricity are their systems producing?

Who gets the tax benefit (the “renewable energy credit”)?

Can the lease be transferred if I sell the house?

Does the lease company have the right to run a credit check?

Q: As a consumer, how can I protect myself and my investment?

A: Research. When you make the decision to invest in residential solar, you are making a significant financial investment. Be sure to do your research on the company. Colorado State University Energy Institute also has great tools and calculators to help you.

Are the installers North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and solar photovoltaic (PV) electric trained and certified?

When was your company established and how much solar has it installed to date?

Can your company provide a list of the projects and references for those projects?

Are you accredited with the Better Business Bureau? If so, what is your rating?

Page 10

Lost Creek Guide

Premier Farm Credit to Return $4.5 Million to Member-Owners in Early 2021

January 11, 2021, Sterling, Colorado – Local ag-lending cooperative Premier Farm Credit has announced that they will mail $4.5 million in Cash Patronage Dividend checks to their member-owners in early 2021.

“Getting a Cash Patronage Dividend check shows that the borrowers of Premier Farm Credit are part-owners of a business that’s working for them,” said Becky Lenz, Board Chair. “$4.5 million dollars is a significant amount and demonstrates the Board of Directors’ commitment to supporting the member-owners of this lending cooperative - in good times and bad.”

This year’s substantial payout marks the 24th consecutive year Premier Farm Credit has paid a Cash Patronage Dividend, bringing the total returned in that time frame to $68.5 million.

“We’ve heard from our borrowers that it makes them feel good about who they are doing business with when they get their Cash Patronage Dividend Check,” President and CEO Michael Grauberger said. “It’s important to us that we return a meaningful amount while remaining financially sound and focused on serving agriculture and rural communities today and tomorrow.”

This year’s significant payout benefits not only the predominantly local farmers and ranchers who are the memberowners of Premier Farm Credit, but also the businesses in the communities where the members live and work.

As part of the Farm Credit System (established in 1916), Premier Farm Credit is a mission-driven lending cooperative owned entirely by its borrowers/member-owners. Sometimes referred to as an Association, Premier Farm Credit serves Northeast Colorado and the surrounding areas with loans, leases, insurance and appraisals for agriculture and ag-related businesses. They also provide rural home loans for residences in small towns and on small acreages. Premier Farm Credit has aggregate loan volume of approximately $770 million and has offices in Sterling, Fort Morgan, Yuma and Holyoke.

You can learn more about them at premieraca.com, or on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram.

January 20, 2021

Update from Weldon Valley 4-H

Since the state shut down gatherings over a month ago, 4H clubs have not been able to meet in person. This has been a hardship for our kids, but we are making due. 2021 4H enrollment is due in Morgan County by Feb 1st, so we are short-timing getting kids signed up.

Now that the state moved to “orange” designation, CSU Extension opened up the possibility for in-person meetings. Our club held 2 zoom meetings last year with limited success. 4H is a hands-on organization, so teaching kids how to run a meeting over a computer had its challenges. The kids performed beautifully, but we chose to postpone a December meeting, crossing our fingers in-person would occur - which it now has.

We will hit the ground running with the February meeting, as there may be another shutdown before things get better. We will make sure kids have their project resources, discuss creative fundraising ideas - which you eluded to a potential option, and possible community service opportunities. As the adults working with our club kids, our main goal is to keep the kids engaged and offer opportunities to expand their interactions with each other.

Kathy Wood, leader

By GLAD Club

Weldon Valley News Wild Geese Over the Desert

From sunset, slowly fading To misted beryl and blue Streaked with the melted topaz, The goose-wedge comes in view The boughs of twisted cedars On the ledges darkly sway, Making a futile gesture To rise and fly away.

Nothing will have beginning And nothing end in me, Fort watching the geese fly over, That anyone may see.

Only my heart makes gesture Of lifting wings to go, Like boughs of the twisted cedars Dark on fading glow.

-Glenn Ward Dresbach

Here we are in the second week of the New Year. Hope everyone has plans for great new beginnings. Peace and Blessing to all.

Smile a little: Metal age-We live in the Metal age: Silver in the hair.

Gold in the teeth. Lead in the pants. Iron in the veins.

The New Year came in calm for all reports. We have new beginning and adventures to look forward too.

It was an fun week at the home of Gertie Chapin with a visit by Carlee Bolthouse, Kane, Palmer and Kensington and Leianne Stinton from Sherwood Oregon. They enjoyed visiting with family and friends in the Valley. They also visit Brush with Marilyn Stinton.

Church Chat: The St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church will celebrate Mass on Sunday morning at 7:00 a.m. Pastor Reverend Erik Vigil Reyes and Parochial Vicar Reverend Francis Saleth, HGN will share the services. Confession will be celebrated before mass.

Weldon Valley Presbyterian Church in Goodrich has Christian education and worship at 10 a.m. each Sunday.

Contact information for Pastor Denise Shannon is 720-271-6733 or pastordeniseshannon@gmail.com. The Presbyterian Women are furnishing a meal for Rising Up on the first Thursday of the month through March.

The Presbyterian Women will meet on Thursday, for Bible Study.

School Scoop: The first week back in the week year went well for all.

4-H News: 4-H members preparing for a new year.

What’s cookin’: Hamburger-Vegetable Soup: 1 pound ground beef, 1 cup diced onion, 1 cup sliced carrots, 1 cup cut in pieced celery, 4 cups cooked tomatoes, ( canned from store good), ½ cup rice, 3 cups water, ¼ teaspoons basil, 1/4 tablespoon thyme, 1 bay leaf, salt as needed.

Brown the ground beef and onion. When browned drain off excess fat. Combining with remaining ingredients in a large kettle. Simmer for at least one hour. Ready to serve. This is an easy recipe. Freezes well. The rice will make the soup thick, may want to reduce or add more water of tomato juice. Enjoy, this is soup season!

First facts: 1542-Portuguese navigator Juan Rodirguez Cabrillo arrived at present day San Diego.

Weldon Valley History: 2002 All-School Reunion- Over 200 Alumni and guests gathered for an all-school. This was the fourth reunion in the past 20 years sponsored by the Weldon Valley alumni Association. The event began in the after- noon with a social reception at the school. Yearbooks were on display. The Alumni took the building as many changes had been. The evening activities took place in Fort Morgan at the County Steak Out Restaurant. Alumni were present from years: 1938-1958,1962-1963,19651985,1988-1990,1992-1994,1996-2001. The class of 2002 broke the record of the Class of 1940 which had 21 members present; 2002 class had 23 graduates in attendance. It was a great evening for all.

Calendar of Event: Thursday, January 14, 1:30 p.m., Presbyterian Women Bible Study in Goodrich at the church.

Thought for the day: I know of no pursuit in which more real and important services can be rendered to any country that by improving its agriculture, its breed of useful animals, and other branches of husbandman’s care.”

George Washington,

January 20, 2021

In 2020, Colorado Saw One Of Its Driest And Warmest Years Ever Recorded

Lost Creek Guide

By Miguel Otárola, CPR News High temperatures and little rainfall meant 2020 was Colorado’s second-driest and seventh-warmest year ever recorded, according to new national data released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The conditions kickstarted a drought that reached every corner of the state and is likely to last through spring.

Rising temperatures over the last decade also set the stage for dramatic and destructive events, including some of the largest wildfires the state had ever seen.

The year was also marked by bizarre weather events, includNorth of Estes Park, smoke and ash from the nearby East Troublesome ing the state’s and Cameron Peak fire cover the trees, the mountains and the grass. first modKevin J. Beaty/Denverite ern derecho in June and a swing from 100-plus degree weather to snowfall in September that tied national records. That temperature swing could be attributed to climate change, as hot conditions extended further than ever for the state.

“This year took things to a new level,” said state climatologist Russ Schumacher. “When a dry year happens, when it›s also hot, it just really puts a lot more stress on everything.”

It didn’t look as though Colorado was headed in that direction at the beginning of the year.

Snowfall had accumulated close to average levels throughout the winter.

In Boulder, snow levels surpassed the average seasonal amount by more than 60 inches, according to assistant state climatologist Becky Bolinger.

That run ended in April 2020 and A wildfire danger sign on Highway 14 between Fort Collins and Walden was replaced by in the Poudre Canyon on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020. dry and warm Hart Van Denburg/CPR News weather that only worsened throughout the year. There were barely any monsoon rains in the Western Slope through the summer, Schumacher said. August was the hottest on record in the state, according to NOAA data.

A couple of strong storms rolled through Colorado during the summer, including a thunderstorm in the Eastern Plains that pushed gusts of up to 112 miles per hour, which led to widespread damage, Schumacher said.

Those storms were largely outlier events, and did little to increase Colorado’s overall precipitation levels, said Greg Hanson, the warning coordination meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Boulder.

“The climate overall for the last year was warm and dry,” said Hanson. “And yet we still had these notable storm events ... with high winds and heavy rainfall. But they›re very isolated, shortlived.”

About 12.2 inches of precipitation was recorded across Colorado in 2020, almost six inches below the average, Schumacher said. It was one of the driest years for several cities, including Denver, which received only 8.74 inches of precipitation, making it the ninth-driest year for the capital on record.

The driest year recorded for Colorado was 2002, when a scant 11.9 inches of precipitation fell across the state.

“It was more extreme on the western slope,” Schumacher said.

Western Colorado also had its second-driest year on record.

The extended drought conditions exacerbated the growth of the most intense fires in the state, including the Cameron Peak and East Troublesome fires, which raged outside of the usual wildfire season.

It wasn’t just the dry and warm climate that helped spread those wildfires, but it was a major factor. Though snowpack has been lackluster so far this year, there is still plenty of winter left — along with hotter summers to come.

“It’s pretty likely that the drought is going to persist at least into the spring,” he said. “If we continue to see dry conditions, and especially if we don’t get a wet spring, then things are going to be in pretty bad shape as we get to next summer.”

Page 11

USDA Releases Agriculture Innovation Research Strategy Summary and Dashboard

(Washington, D.C., January 12, 2021) – Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released its U.S. Agriculture Innovation Strategy Directional Vision for Research (PDF, 4.8 MB) summary and dashboard that will help to guide future research decisions within USDA. The strategy synthesizes the information USDA collected as part of a public announcement earlier this year engaging the public on research priorities under the Agriculture Innovation Agenda (AIA).

“This initial report is a culmination of creative minds from across the agricultural community,” said Deputy Under Secretary Scott Hutchins, who leads USDA’s Research, Education, and Economics mission area, and who is responsible for research efforts under the AIA. “Innovation and ingenuity have always been key to solving critical agricultural production challenges and will also be critical for addressing new and emerging challenges on the horizon—and our stakeholders advocated for some truly bold goals. We believe this information and the AIA will create enthusiasm, bridge collaborations, drive constructive discussions, and spark imagination to convey the positive role innovation will play to help solve challenges that face our nation in meeting pressing demands to feed a growing population in a sustainable way,” said Hutchins.

USDA collected hundreds of responses through the RFI and stakeholder-led workshops.

Respondents were asked to identify transformational research goals for the next era of agriculture productivity and environmental conservation. They were also asked to propose approaches to these opportunities around four innovation cluster areas (Genome Design, Digital Automation, Prescriptive Intervention, and Systems Based Farm Management), and to identify gaps, barriers, and hurdles to meeting these goals.

This report summarizes the extensive stakeholder input and defines discovery goals that will help inform research to best address the AIA for the next 10 to 30 years.

USDA developed the public dashboard to help sort the information collected from stakeholders. Stakeholders and customers can use the dashboard to take a deeper dive into the data to gain insights on agricultural innovation opportunities over three time horizons, including near-term solutions, longer-term transformational solutions, and next era concepts.

Both products are iterative and are starting points for moving the innovation community forward in reaching agricultural research goals and AIA outcomes. USDA will seek additional input from stakeholders to continue to shape and build the agriculture innovation strategy and fill any remaining gaps where more input is needed. Next steps include aligning existing USDA research programs against these bold innovation goals, while also linking existing research activities to the objectives to inform the broader innovation community of progress and enlist their engagement.

Background on USDA’s Agriculture Innovation Agenda (AIA): The AIA is a Department-wide effort to align USDA’s resources, programs, and research to provide farmers with the tools they need to position American agriculture as a global leader in meeting future food, fiber, fuel, feed, and climate demands. As part of the AIA, USDA set ambitious goals to increase agricultural production by 40 percent, while cutting the environmental footprint of U.S. agriculture in half by 2050.

The AIA is comprised of four main components. The first component is to develop a U.S. Agriculture Innovation Strategy that aligns and synchronizes public and private-sector research.

The second component is to align the work of our customer-facing agencies and integrate innovative technologies and practices into USDA programs. The third component is to conduct a review of USDA productivity and conservation data to improve our ability to track progress against our goals. Finally, USDA set benchmarks to hold us accountable. Learn more on USDA’s Agriculture Innovation Agenda website.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Trey Jackson Named to Fall 2020 Dean’s List at ENMU

PORTALES, NM (01/11/2021)-- Trey Jackson of Keenesburg, CO (80643), has been named to Eastern New Mexico University’s dean’s list for the fall 2020 semester.

To be eligible for the dean’s list, a student must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours with a GPA of 3.25 or greater.

For more information, contact the Office of Communication Services at merit@enmu. edu.

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Lost Creek Guide

United Power Accepting 2021 Scholarship Applications Eighteen Scholarships are being Awarded for a Total of $20,500

Brighton, Colo. — United Power is now accepting scholarship applications for its 2021 awards. This year, the cooperative will award more than $20,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee will select eighteen high school seniors based on a combination of grades, test scores, extracurricular activities and a brief essay.

United Power’s scholarship recipients for 2021 will be announced during the cooperative’s Annual Meeting & Director Election in April and recognized in its monthly newsletter later this summer. The scholarships available are: • Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, awarded to a student pursuing any post-secondary education at an accredited institution.

• United Power Colorado College Scholarship, awarded to a student attending a public Colorado university or college. Two scholarships will be awarded.

• Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, awarded to a student pursuing a degree in education.

• Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, awarded to a student pursuing a degree in engineering at a Colorado university or college.

• Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, awarded to a student pursuing any post-secondary education at an accredited institution.

• United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, awarded to a student pursuing any post-secondary education at an accredited institution, who also shows strong involvement in community service activities and a record of youth leadership.

United Power also dedicates book scholarships to a student from each high school within its service territory. This year, United Power will distribute eleven book scholarships, including one “at-large” selection.

Book scholarships for 2021 include: Brighton, Eagle Ridge Academy, Erie, Frederick, Fort Lupton, Mead, Prairie View, Riverdale Ridge and Weld Central. A book scholarship is also available for one mountain student.

Scholarship applications are now available on our website and may be either mailed to United Power or submitted online. To download a United Power scholarship application, go to www.unitedpower.com/scholarships.

United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative delivering electricity to more than 97,000 meters at homes, businesses and farms in Colorado’s north-central front range. For more information about the cooperative visit www. unitedpower.com or follow on social media at facebook.com/unitedpower or twitter. com/unitedpowercoop.

January 20, 2021

Kimbal Musk, Kate Greenberg to Keynote CFVGA 7th Annual Conference

Registration begins at $20 for members registering early

Kimbal Musk, chef, restauranteur, philanthropist and “real food” entrepreneur will open the Colorado Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association’s (CFVGA) 7th Annual Conference the morning of Feb. 17. Participants can expect an informal keynote address where Musk discusses his experiences with entrepreneurship and working with farmers to source food for his restaurants. His presentation will be followed with a live webinar Q&A session.

Day two of the virtual conference, Feb. 18, will kick off with an address from Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. She is expected to discuss the state of Colorado agriculture, pivots made by the Colorado Department of Agriculture because of the coronavirus pandemic and what consumers and farmers can expect in 2021.

“We are very excited to have confirmed these dynamite leaders to open each day of our conference,” said CFVGA President Robert Sakata. “Quality content and networking opportunities will be offered throughout the conference, and the virtual format allows anyone to participate. Registration begins at $20 for members registering by Jan. 31.”

The CFVGA conference will include a robust virtual exhibitor hall and the ever-popular Grower-Buyer Networking Session. Attendees also can choose from 13 different breakout sessions with topics including farm labor, Covid era food system adaptations, consumer behavior changes during Covid, production research, online produce sales platforms and multiple food safety educational options.

“Since networking is such an important part of our conference, we have chosen a platform that will allow participants to easily see displays and interact with exhibitors, with buyers and with each other,” said Adrian Card, CFVGA Founding Board member and chair of the conference committee. “Another advantage to the virtual format is that participants can go back and watch content that was offered simultaneously, since they will have access to the conference website through the end of August.”

CFVGA is encouraging anyone with an interest in the Colorado produce industry to learn more and register: https://pheedloop.com/cfvga2021/site/home/ Exhibitor opportunities are available, and buyers are encouraged to participate. For more information, contact CFVGA at admin@coloradoproduce.org or 303.594.3827.

The CFVGA is comprised of more than 250 members, including growers of all sizes and types of production throughout the state, as well as representatives of allied industries. The Colorado fruit and vegetable growing sector contributes nearly $485 million to Colorado at the farm gate and is multiplied as it goes through the distribution chain. Over 90,000 Colorado acres are in fruit and vegetable production.

Keene Craft Mercantile

A Special Place Where Talented People Bring Their Home-made Crafts to Sell Booths are $25 and Tables are $20 We are open Monday through Saturday from 10 am until 5 pm 65 Main Street, Keenesburg, Colorado 303-910-0640

WE'LL HELP YOU Cool It Ride It Dry It Sail It Wash It Pull It Can It Fix It Drive It Warm It Fly It Cook It Find It Grow It

Matt M., Journeyman Lineman

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1/8/2019 9:34:18 AM

January 20, 2021

Winning Edge 4-H

Lost Creek Guide

I’m Anna Werner and I am a member of the Winning Edge 4-H club. I have been in 4-H for 5 years. There are many different activities 4-H offers. You can show animals, decorate cakes, do photography, design clothes, and shooting sports. These are just a few projects that you can choose from. I do archery and clothing construction. My brother does shooting sports, he shoots a 22 rifle and a muzzleloader. He says that 4-H is fun and educational.

There are lots of clubs in most counties. My club is Winning Edge, we meet every second Thursday of each month, at 6:30 pm. When you’re a member you can become an officer. Officers run the club meetings.

These officers are President, Vice President, treasurer, secretary, and historian.

For the last two years I was secretary, it was really fun.

For my club, at the end of each meeting we have an activity to do.

As a club we do community service. We do things like make valentine cards for seniors, and care packages for the military. We also pick up trash in local parks. I like doing community service because it helps make someone’s day better. as clubs we go do fun activities. These activities include ice skating, bowling, a Halloween party, and a Christmas party.

4-H also helps me learn responsibility. A few years ago, I did catch-it chicken. If you catch a chicken, the next spring you get 20 chickens to raise and care for. When the fair comes you pick out the best 3 chickens to show. When I was secretary, my responsibility was to keep the meeting minutes, type them, and send them to the club members.4-H teaches me many things, and I love it!

As a club, we do fun activities. These activities include ice skating, bowling, a Halloween party, and a Christmas party. We usually do the activities monthly. The club pays for it out of the club’s savings. 4-H teaches me many things, and I love it!

Support Local Agriculture

Where to Get a COVID-19 Vaccine

Page 13

COVID-19 vaccination locations in Weld County include but may not be limited to: Banner Health Take the survey on the Banner Health website to determine if you are eligible to receive the vaccine. Schedule your appointment online as the Banner Health System is receiving a high number of requests for appointments.

Kaiser Permanente For Kaiser Permanente members 70+ (and others in eligible 1A and 1B categories), visit Kaiser Permanente’s vaccine webpage to complete the “COVID-19 Vaccine Sign Up.” Upon providing your information to them, you will be placed on a first-come, first-served wait list for the vaccine based on your eligibility.

Salud Salud is only offering COVID-19 vaccine to anyone who is 70 years of age or older and health care workers in the 1B category. You do not need to be a Salud patient. In order to register, you must meet this criteria. Register online and Salud will contact you to schedule an appointment. You must have a scheduled appointment; walk-ups are not available.

At the time of your appointment, Salud will request verification of age or occupation.

SCL Health SCL Health is currently contacting patients age 70 and older who are currently receiving care at an SCL Health facility. Information is being emailed to these patients guiding them to use the MyChart online patient portal to make a vaccination appointment.

These invitations are being sent in a phased fashion based on the state tiering system.

An appointment is required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at an SCL Health facility.

Walk-up vaccinations are not available. If you are 70 and older and would like more information about registering for COVID-19 vaccination at a SCL Health facility, log on to SCL Health’s website or call (303) 812-2051 for details.

Sunrise Community Health Sunrise is offering vaccines to patients age 70 and up via vaccine clinics. For more information about dates and locations, go to the Sunrise website. Appointments are required. To make an appointment at an upcoming clinic, call (970) 346-2587 (for English or other languages) or (970) 346-2589 (for Spanish).

UCHealth UCHealth is using My Health Connection, their online patient portal, to communicate with patients age 70 and up. If you have a My Health Connection account, you are added to the vaccine list and will automatically receive updates (via email and in the app) regarding the vaccine. If you do not have a My Health Connection account or are new to UCHealth, create a My Health Connection account to be placed on the list to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when it is available for your phase, according to the state’s plan. An appointment is required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated.

Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment Weld County Health is currently contacting eligible individuals in some of the 1B category to obtain a vaccination. As of January 8, the Health Department is not able to provide vaccines to county residents who are 70 or older.

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Lost Creek Guide

January 20, 2021

USDA Announces Continuation of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program, Fifth Round of Food Purchases

(Washington, D.C., January 4, 2021) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will purchase an additional $1.5 billion worth of food for nationwide distribution through the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. In total, USDA has distributed more than 132 million food boxes in support of American farmers and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This new round of Farmers to Families Food Boxes will go a long way in helping American families access nutritious and healthy meals as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to the President Trump’s leadership, we have helped tens of millions of families and countless farmers with this program,” said Secretary Perdue. “President Trump has committed to helping the American people recover and rebuild and this program helps American families get back on solid ground by ensuring they receive the nutritious food they need during these difficult times.”

“With over 3.3 billion meals distributed to families across this nation, I am proud to share that thanks to the Trump administration’s efforts, the Farmers to Families Food Box Program has an additional $1.5 billion to continue to feed families in need, provide employment and support our small farmers. During these unprecedented times, this Administration will continue to fight for American families and will always put them first!”

- Advisor to the President Ivanka Trump Background: The additional funding for the program was included in the COVID-19 relief package as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act passed December 21, 2020. In this fifth round of purchases, USDA will again purchase combination boxes to ensure all involved recipient organizations have access to fresh produce, dairy products, fluid milk and meat products, and seafood products will also be included in this round.

The solicitation will be issued to over 240 organizations that have previously received Basic Ordering Agreements (BOA). Solicitations to existing BOA holders are expected to be issued by the end of the week, with contract awards expected to be made by January 19. Deliveries will begin shortly after awards are issued and continue through the end of April. Additional BOA proposals will not be reviewed nor accepted at this time. A complete list of BOA holders can be found at www.ams.usda.gov/sites/default/files/media/ RoundFourBOAHolders.pdf (PDF, 180 KB).

An amendment to the BOA will be issued to clarify the amount of acceptable processed meat products, to include seafood products and to clarify certain labelling requirements.

Pre-cooked seafood products are now eligible for food box inclusion and can be aggregated with pre-cooked meat (beef, pork, chicken and turkey) products and egg or egg products to meet the existing material description weight requirements. In addition, USDA has emphasized that other hard, semi-firm or semi-soft cheese, for example, Blue, Brick, Colby, Edam, Gorgonzola, Gouda, Gruyere, Monterey, Muenster, Parmesan, Provolone and Romano are acceptable in addition to cheddar and other cheeses specified in the

solicitation.

The Farmers to Families Food Box program is part of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), which was developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Using authority provided by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, USDA partnered with national, regional and local distributors, whose workforces were significantly impacted by the closure of restaurants, hotels and other food service businesses, to purchase and distribute agricultural products to Americans in need.

The fourth round of the program was announced on Oct. 23, 2020, and purchased a total of $463 million worth of food delivered between Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2020. The fourth round was funded by an additional $500 million made available through supplemental appropriations provided to the Secretary in the CARES Act. The third round of the Farmers to Families Food Box program was announced July 24, 2020, and the President announced on Aug. 24, 2020, that up to an additional $1 billion was being made available for deliveries through Oct. 31, 2020. USDA announced contracts for the third round on Sept. 17, 2020. By the end of the third round on Oct. 31, USDA purchased more than $3.566 billion worth of food.

In the second round of purchasing and distribution, which began July 1 and concluded Sep. 18, 2020, USDA purchased more than $1.781 billion of food through extended contracts of select vendors from the first round of the program as well as new contracts focused on Opportunity Zones in order to direct food to reach underserved areas, places where either no boxes have yet been delivered, or where boxes are being delivered but where there is additional need.

The first round of purchases occurred from May 15 through June 30, 2020 and saw more than 35.5 million boxes delivered in the first 45 days.

Updates to the number of food boxes verified as delivered will continue to be displayed on the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) website, with breakdowns by performance period on the Farmers to Families Food Box Program page. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Morgan County REA Offers Scholarships for Local Youth

The deadline is fast approaching for scholarship applications. Morgan County REA has again partnered with Tri-State G&T and Basin Electric Power Cooperative, and is proud to offer youth, whose parents or grandparents are members of Morgan County Rural Electric Association, a chance to apply for a scholarship to attend college or a technical/trade school.

For the 2021-2022 school year, Morgan County REA will award five (5) $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors and one (1) $1,000 scholarship to a current post-secondary student that will be returning to college or trade school. Additionally, Tri-State will award two (2) $500 scholarships to graduating seniors and Basin Electric Power will award one (1) $1,000 scholarship to graduating seniors.

Only one set of application material is necessary to apply for scholarships from all three cooperatives. Scholarship applications must be postmarked and delivered to MCREA headquarters by January 29, 2021. You can contact your school counselor for applications and information, check out our website at www.mcrea.org and look for youth programs under our ‘About Us’ tab, or give member services a call at 970-867-5688 for more information.

January 20, 2021

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Lost Creek Guide

SERVICE DIRECTORY Computer Support Repair, Service & Sales Reliable, Local, Professional

Roggen Telephone Company

303-849-5260

Open Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm Family Medical Care for All Ages

Keene Clinic

190 So. Main St., Keenesburg

303-732-4268

Thomas J Croghan DDS Family Dental Practice

Appointments: 303-377-8662 Appointments Available in Keenesburg and Denver

New Patients Welcome

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry Assistance for Roggen, Keenesburg, Prospect Valley, & Hudson Call to Request Assistance

303-732-4319

DOHERTY’S PLUMBING AND DRAIN Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Water Heater Replacement Video sewer inspection Sewer & drain locating

COMPLETE HVAC SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE

303-859-9126

Local Colorado Information On Line

Go to: www.ourtowncolorado.com

Go to: your town/city Go to: news/events tab Free - No Pay Wall

First Baptist Church, Keenesburg, Food Pantry

Open every third Saturday 9 am to 12 pm 100 North Market Street, Keenesburg For emergency needs, please contact 720-480-6428 or email us at: http:// www.fbca.church

Donations are welcome to help us defeat hunger in our community

Self Storage

1401 County Road 153 Strasburg, CO 80136

Phone: (303) 622-4142

Managers: Garold & Geraldine Middlemist

SERVICES

THANK YOU

Dave Haney Painting & Dry Wall Interior - Exterior Cabinets, Fence Staining Located in Platteville 720-217-2089

Thank You

McCarthy Trucking Recycled asphalt, concrete Great for driveways & parking areas. Also sand & gravel.

Reasonable Prices Call Kevin for free quote 303-901-5034

Longarm Quilter Edge to Edge Computer Automated Quilting Online Store aquiltersfriend.com Cheri Dobratz 303-532-9035

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who sent cards, flowers, donations, and food during the difficult times after Wyatt’s passing.

We are so grateful to have wonderful people like you in our lives. It was a blessing to our family to have your support and kindness.

Love, Becky Utecht and family

WE'LL HELP YOU

Cool It Ride It Dry It Sail It Wash It Pull It Can It Fix It Drive It Warm It Fly It Cook It Find It Grow It CLASSIFIEDS DO THE JOB

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Call or Text: 970-467-1512 Email: carissa@arrowheadtrash.com Or visit our website at www.arrowheadtrash.com

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Lost Creek Guide

Colorado Farmers, Ranchers and Processors Awarded More Than $1.6 Million in CARES Act Grant Funding

Broomfield, Colo. - The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA), in partnership with the Colorado Farm & Food Systems Respond & Rebuild Fund, is pleased to announce the awarding of $1,658,000 in grants to Colorado farmers, ranchers, food hubs and processors.

Recognizing the fundamental importance of agriculture to the state, Governor Polis dedicated grant dollars to CDA through federal CARES Act funding to support ag producers in adjusting to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the food supply chain— including those who experienced costs, losses, or needed to pivot their business model.

The initial $1 million in grants was expanded to $1.658 million as more funding became available.

The fund delivered individual grants of up to $12,500 to 156 producers and up to $50,000 to 45 ag-related intermediaries statewide. Additionally, 15 local processors received funding to help them meet surging demand and to support farmers and ranchers in managing excess supply as a result of backlogs at processing plants.

Grant recipients span the entire state and include Volberding Farms in Akron, Farm Runners in Hotchkiss, Frontline Farming in Denver, and Sunnyside Meats in Durango.

“We are able to get much-needed support to numerous ag and food businesses across our state,” said Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. “As the pandemic continues to affect the food supply chain and present challenges for our farmers and ranchers, we will continue to fight for them and find ways to support Colorado’s agricultural community.”

The respond and rebuild grants are administered by the independent Colorado Farm & Food Systems Respond & Rebuild Fund. Applicants with questions may contact Helen Katich at corespondrebuild@gmail.com.

About the Colorado Farm & Food Systems Respond & Rebuild Fund Fourteen food and ag-related organizations joined forces in the spring of 2020 to form the Colorado Farm & Food Systems Response Team and associated fund, to support Colorado farmers and ranchers in responding to changing market conditions in the midst of COVID-19.

To date, the fund has provided more than $2 million to producers and intermediaries across Colorado, focusing on the needs and opportunities of small- and mid-size growers, beginning farmers and ranchers, veteran farmers, farmers of color, LGBTQ+ farmers, and female farmers — producers who are often underserved by public programs and projected to bear the brunt of the crisis’s impact.

Earlier rounds of funding were made possible through donations from Colorado-based foundations including the Colorado Health Foundation, Gates Family Foundation and others, as well as from individual donations. Learn more at cofoodsystems.org/covid19-response-fund.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture exists to support the state’s agriculture industry and serve the people of Colorado through regulation, advocacy and education. Our mission is to strengthen and advance Colorado agriculture, promote a safe and high-quality food supply, protect consumers, and foster responsible stewardship of the environment and natural resources.

January 20, 2021

USDA Offers Additional Assistance for Certain Producers Through Coronavirus Food Assistance Program

(Washington, D.C., January 15, 2021) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide additional assistance through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), expanding eligibility for some agricultural producers and commodities as well as updating payments to accurately compensate some producers who already applied for the program. Producers who are now eligible and those who need to modify existing applications due to these updates can contact USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26.

Some of these changes are being made to align with the recently enacted Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 while others are discretionary changes being made in response to ongoing evaluation of CFAP. “The COVID-19 pandemic has left a deep impact on the farm economy, and we are utilizing the tools and monies available to ease some of the financial burdens on American producers to ensure our agricultural economy remains strong, independent and a global leader in production,” said Secretary Perdue. “As part of implementing CFAP 1 and CFAP 2, we identified new areas of support and Congress recently directed us to provide additional relief. This additional assistance builds on to the $23.6 billion in assistance already provided to our farmers and ranchers impacted by the pandemic, and we will continue to implement other provisions enacted by Congress.”

Background: Expanded Eligibility for CFAP 2 Contract producers of swine, broilers, laying hens, chicken eggs and turkeys who suffered a drop in revenue in 2020 as compared to their 2019 revenue because of the pandemic now are eligible for assistance. Producers could receive up to 80% of their revenue loss, subject to the availability of funds.

Producers of pullets and turfgrass sod also now are eligible for CFAP payments. The commodities were not explicitly included in the initial CFAP 2 rule. Payments are based on eligible sales, and the payment calculation in the updated rule includes crop insurance indemnities, Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP), and Wildfire and Hurricane Indemnity Program – Plus (WHIP+) payments.

Updated Payment Calculations for CFAP 2 Similarly, FSA adjusted the payment calculation to use the producer’s eligible 2019 calendar year sales, and 2019 crop insurance indemnities, NAP, and WHIP+ payments, multiplied by the applicable payment rate for all sales commodities, which include specialty crops, aquaculture, tobacco, specialty livestock, nursery crops and floriculture, for CFAP 2. Producers who applied during the sign-up period that closed Dec. 11, 2020, can modify an existing CFAP 2 application between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26, 2021.

Additionally, FSA adjusted the payment calculation for certain row crops for CFAP 2, specifically those for which a producer had crop insurance coverage but not an available 2020 Actual Production History (APH) approved yield. FSA is now using 100% of the 2019 Agriculture Risk Coverage-County Option (ARC-CO) benchmark yield to calculate payments when an APH is not available rather than 85%, which was in the original CFAP 2 calculations. This calculation change is only for producers with crop insurance coverage who grow barley, corn, sorghum, soybeans, sunflowers, upland cotton and wheat. Producers who applied during the sign-up period that closed Dec. 11, 2020, can modify an existing CFAP 2 application between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26, 2021.

CFAP 1 ‘Top-up’ Payments for Swine FSA is providing an additional CFAP 1 inventory payment for swine to help producers who face continuing market disruptions from changes in U.S. meat consumption due to the pandemic. Swine producers with approved CFAP 1 applications will soon automatically receive a “top-up” payment of $17 per head increasing the total CFAP1 inventory payment to $34 per head.

More Information Newly eligible producers who need to submit a CFAP 2 application or producers who need to modify an existing one can do so between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26, 2021, by contacting their local USDA Service Center. New applicants can also obtain one-on-one support with applications by calling 877-508-8364.

In addition to the changes being made to CFAP, per language in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, FSA will extend 2020 Marketing Assistance Loans to provide additional flexibilities for farmers. FSA is also preparing to move forward on implementation of the remaining provisions of the recently passed Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.

To learn more about this additional assistance, visit farmers.gov/ cfap.

All USDA Service Centers are open for business, including those that restrict in-person visits or require appointments. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with FSA, Natural Resources Conservation Service or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Visitors are also required to wear a face covering during their appointment. Our program delivery staff will continue to work with our producers by phone, email and using online tools. More information can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus.