The Lost Creek Guide February 2, 2022

Volume 15 • Edition 3

February 2, 2022

Delivering to over 14,500 homes & businesses in 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

Steve Moreno Announces Retirement

After nearly 40 years of service to Weld County, Commissioner will not seek re-election (GREELEY) – At-Large Weld County Commissioner Steve Moreno announced today he will not seek re-election to a third and final term as a member of the Board of Weld County Commissioners. He is also giving his endorsement to the candidate he believes will best replace him.

Moreno was initially elected as commissioner in 2014 and re-elected in 2018. He served as Chairman of the Board in 2018 and 2021.

Prior to his eight years on the board, Moreno served 12 years as the Weld County Clerk & Recorder, elected to the maximum number of three terms by Weld County voters. Before his service as an elected official, Moreno spent more than 17 years working in the Clerk & Recorder’s office.

“It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Weld County for the past 37 years,” Moreno said. “I am humbled to have been elected five times countywide by Weld residents and entrusted to represent them in two elected offices. I appreciate the support and responsibility. It will always be the highlight of my career — a career that would not have been possible without the support of my wife and kids, who allowed me to sacrifice family time in order to participate fully in public service.”

Moreno said some of the highlights of his years in office included maintaining the unparalleled financial condition of the county including no debt or county sales tax, a strong cash reserve and one of the lowest mill levies among Colorado counties.

Throughout his eight years as a county commissioner, Moreno served on several boards and commissions and was involved in the Weld County Parkway and Weld County Road 49 projects, the largest Public Works capital improvement project in county history.

Moreno is excited to be able to spend time with his wife of 38 years, Joyce, and his two children, Douglas and Courtney.

Moreno is also excited to announce his endorsement for former Eaton Mayor and former County Commissioner Kevin Ross, who today announced his intention to run for the seat vacated by Moreno. Moreno said he thinks Ross is the perfect person to replace him in his role as county commissioner.

Ross announced his bid for Moreno’s seat only after talking with Moreno and being assured of his intentions to retire.

“Kevin’s knowledge of county government and his dedication to Weld residents is unmatched,” said Moreno. “He has already proven himself as an effective leader in the role of commissioner as he helped guide the county through some of its most trying moments during the start of the pandemic. I am proud to support him as Weld County’s next At Large Commissioner.”

Welcome Home to B Company of the 1-157th Inf Regiment Stationed Out of Fort Lupton Readiness Center

by Tributary Staff A big thanks to Christy Romano, Events Coordinator, of the City of Fort Lupton, for giving us a heads up of the return of one of the National Guard units out of Fort Lupton that was returning from almost a year tour of duty in Africa. In today’s world of security focus the military does not broadcast theses events to the general public.

Fort Lupton put out a flier notifying of the return of the troops on January 21st, 2022.

Protocol said that welcoming visitors could only park where the buses came in and wave but that the buses would not stop as the troops were being disembarked at the main entrance of National Guard facility in Fort Lupton. There was a contingency of family and friends including Mayor Zo Stieber of Fort Lupton accompanied by a flashing fire truck from Fort Lupton, welcoming the troops home. The troops were greeted on High 52 as they turned into the facility with a contingent of local veterans and a lining of the street with American flags.

A group from the Southeast Christian Church from Parker has been very active in sending off and welcoming returning troops. They have done six deployments in 2021. We chatted with Nora Derrick whose enthusiasm, on a scale of one to ten, was a fifteen. She shared that the volunteer Church group tried to provide support for the troops and their families in these times. They provided support and a meal for these returning troops. The national guard has set up assistance stations in the main building to provide transition services such as pay and allowances and other support services. The total deployment involved about 231 troops for a period of about a hundred and ten days. As the buses off loaded a total of about a hundred troops and their gear, you could see the expression on their faces, thankful to be getting home.

Many were thanked for their service by the people who were and in return many said thank you for supporting them. It was moving. A community saying thank you was appreciated.

Kevin Ross Announces Bid for County Commissioner

Former Mayor of Eaton and former Commissioner will seek seat vacated by Steve Moreno (GREELEY) – Kevin Ross, who served as Weld County Commissioner for 10 months in 2020 after being appointed to a vacated seat, is announcing his intention to run for an at-large seat that will be open on the commission in the 2022 election.

Ross, who ran to retain the seat he was appointed to in 2020 but came up just short to Perry Buck, said he is excited for another opportunity to manage a county he loves and continue the successes his predecessors have put in place.

“I am incredibly proud of the team that we have at Weld County. We have some of the greatest talent I have ever seen, and I believe we accomplished a great deal in arguably one of the most challenging years ever. We were able to keep Weld County moving forward while continuing to uphold individual rights” While commissioner, Ross helped draft language to secure the county’s authority over energy siting and protecting individual landowner rights. He was also instrumental in crafting the language for the county’s comprehensive and transportation plans. Ross KEVIN ROSS ANNOUNCES BID FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER continued on page 3...

For more pictures see page 14...

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE Page 2: Way of the World Page 3: Cindy Baumgartner Comments to Keenesburg Trustees Page 8: The Marshall Fire – How? Page 9: RE3J 2022 Annual Report Page 12: Republican Women of Weld Host Gubernatorial Candidates Page 13: Freddy’s Grand Opening in Brighton Page 16: Hard Bean in Fort Lupton Page 16: Briggsdale Takes Two Against Wiggins

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Lost Creek Guide

Way of the World

by Bob Grand, Lost Creek Guide The President is having a tough time all across the board. The latest with Russia is just a bully at work. Putin sees an opportunity and is trying to press it. The question is, is he willing to try and bluff the President for concessions? China is a bit more problematic. They are not the bully that Putin is, but they have a far more complex set of circumstances. Taiwan for them is a manifest destiny issue. They have an overwhelming number of economic issues on the mainland and might be looking for a solution that helps them across the board. The President in both cases must read the tea leaves pretty carefully. His advisors should be up to snuff and have a good grasp of what the situations are, both in terms of reality and perception. I do not sleep well thinking about this.

We as a nation, need to get over the “us” and “them” mentality. Most folks really want the same thing: a good life for themselves and their families, to be left alone, not dictated from some ivory tower bureaucracy, and the ability to pursue their life dreams and ambitions. There is a fringe in each party, aggravated by the media in general, that benefit by promoting dissension and demonizing the people on the other side. Most of those other folks are not demons. We need to all work on being better communicators. We have some really tough issues that we have to deal with as a nation and the sooner the leadership in Washington accepts that it takes both sides to get things accomplished, the better off we will all be.

Reading our Colorado United States Senators’ communications, you would think all is well in the country and that we should be happy about how well they are doing getting Coloradoans their share of the federal government largeness. Except I do not seem to hear or read about what they propose to do about the rising crime rates across the board, inflation, which is robbing all of us and terribly impacting those on a fixed income, our border crisis, and make no mistake it is a crisis, our lawless gang related drug and crime issues, particularly in the cities. I could go on and on, you get the message. Somebody should ask Senator Hickenlooper and Bennett about what leadership means. They should ask the Senator from West Virginia, Joe Manchin, for some pointers.

The Marshall fire up in Boulder was a major disaster. It was fortunate that more lives were not lost. Yes, there was terrible personal losses and significant property damage, which all of us will be paying for with higher insurance rates. Officials are now trying to determine the cause. Discussion is about a small building that was on fire, possible down power lines and an underground, ongoing smoldering coal mine fire. One has to ask could the Boulder County policy on open space be a causative factor. Nobody could predict hurricane force winds or the lack of moisture in the area but where does responsibility lie. The answer is in a lot of places that folks do not want to fess up to.

We are a nation based on the rule of law. It is imperative that law be applied equally to everyone. In theory that is why the statues in front of most court houses show a blindfolded lady of justice. That is not how our government bureaucrats see fit to apply it. They seemed justified to pursue the politically correct demon of the moment, even including parents who protest at school board hearings. How many more officers of the law must be injured by criminals who are released from prosecution because a politically motivated DA thinks it is the right thing to do. If you do not approve of a law, work to change it, do not ignore it. It gets to be a really crazy world if you have random application of the rules. To focus on the problem, Washington’s answer is to put together a special terrorism task force to identify extremists who ascribe to anti-government and anti-authority ideologies. Excuse me, does that mean we cannot question on what and how our government acts? I thought we are a democracy.

Joining the litigation ranks are now law firms who are specializing in attacking the social media platforms for their careless manner in which they allowed their sites to be used or designed. No question a lot of young people have been adversely affected by the misuse of social media platforms but where is that all going to lead us? Where is virtual reality going to take us? We have already created a large group of young people who do not know how to communicate. Do we try and improve that? No, we look to expand the virtual experience so we can continue to ruin the ability of people to communicate. Is this all part of a sinister plot so that we will all be dependent on government bureaucracy to protect us from life? What made America great was the ability of its people to adapt to the world they lived in. We are watching the creation of an artificial world that people will not be able to survive in, let alone grow and thrive in.

Wake up America! We cannot allow them to take so much control of our lives. Oops, does that make me a target of this new government domestic terrorism unit?

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

The Lost Creek Guide, Llc Bob Grand - Publisher 303-732-4080 publisher@lostcreekguide.com

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February 2, 2022

Keenesburg Board of Trustee Meeting January 24th, 2022

Comments by Bob Grand, Lost Creek Guide During the public comment section of the meeting, I addressed the Mayor & the Trustees on three points.

I followed Cindy Baumgartner who comments are on the next page. The first point was to ask what the Mayor & the Trustee’s intentions were in responding to Cindy Baumgartner’s comments at the last meeting, which were published in the last issue of the Lost Creek Guide. Cindy Baumgartner said in her remarks, immediately before me, there has been no response yet. The Mayor said the Town was planning a public informational work session on the budget. The town administrator indicated that was tentatively scheduled for February 28th with notification to go out in the next town newsletter. I offered, again, to print, within a reasonable limit, in the Lost Creek Guide the response to Cindy Baumgartner’s comments.

My next point was to ask the status of any response to my comments in the last issue of the Lost Creek Guide regarding the water & sewer rate increases that were, in my opinion, prematurely assessed the town citizens. The Mayor referred that to the Town administrator, who again reiterated that the intent was to begin charging with the billing effective in January which was for the December consumption levels. She then referred to the Town attorney who explained that the intent of the Trustees was to the increase it effective with the January billing.

I pointed out that was not what the Town had said in the three communications it had published to the citizens of the town. I noted that I had just reread George Orwell’s book “1984” in which the government had introduced “Newspeak”, a form of communication to allow you to interpret what you wrote to mean what you wanted, not necessarily what you wrote or said. The town attorney commented that she thought a judge would interpret what the Town had done as correct. I commented we just might have to find that out.

My last point was directed at asking what the Town had done regarding proactively looking at what happened in the Marshall fire in Boulder County and how that might affect Keenesburg, particularly with the closeness of the housing in the Evans Place development. The Mayor asked the town manager to respond to that. The town manager referred me to the Weld County Emergency Management website. The next day I looked it up and spoke with Weld County Emergency Management in Greeley. There is an Emergency Preparedness Collaboration Mitigation Community Effort Plans.

This plan was approved by FEMA, which was required, in late November of 2021. The intent is to assist each town to develop its own plan. Keenesburg is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2022. The Mitigation Impact Plan will focus on four areas: 1. Flood Plan Training 2. Notifying traveling public about public shelters availability 3. Tornado warning education 4. Community Impact all others under which fire issues would fall I have attached a copy of the Code Red notification system that Weld County has in place. This past week Boulder County announced that their emergency contact effort reached about 20% of the target audience. I would hope that our Town would look to meet with the appropriate people to assess what potential the possibilities of a Marshall fire type incident is in Keenesburg and what can be done to mitigate that possibility. Just waiting for Weld County does not seem prudent.

EMERGENCY ALERT INFORMATION

UNDERSTAND PREPARE ENGAGE

What is CodeRED?

What is IPAWS?

How do I stay informed?

Weld County uses CodeRED for emergency alerts related to local public safety situations (think active shooter, accident scene, or bridge washout); targeted messages that go to landlines and registered cell phone numbers within an area of the county impacted by an event.

IPAWS is a federal system through FEMA used to alert people of an emergency near them (think Amber Alert or National Weather Service alert). The program sends messages to cellphones in the area and is not assocated with a physical address.

Apps are great tools for situational awareness: news apps, weather apps, radar apps. Download them to your phone, but know their limitations. An alert from an app will provide some information but should also indicate you need to tune in to local news (web, TV, radio) for up-to-date information; remember to turn on notifications.

CodeRED also offers an option to relay weather alerts from the National Weather Service, if the registered user opted in to get those alerts.

Landlines in Weld County are entered automatically into the CodeRED system. The county encourages all residents and business owners within Weld County to register their cell phones with the CodeRED system as well (and opt in to receive National Weather Service alerts).

The county is approved to use IPAWS but only for specific instances, which do not include weather alerts. Only the National Weather Service is approved to send weather alerts (such as tornado watches and warnings) through the IPAWS system.

What’s the Difference?

Simply put, CodeRED alerts go to all Weld County landlines and registered cell phones associated with a physical address.

IPAWS alerts go to every cell phone in a general area (people who live and work in Weld County as well as people who are traveling through or visiting Weld County).

Know where your local agencies post updates during an emergency event.

Many agencies, including Weld County’s Office of Emergency Management, post updates on their social media platforms (primarily Facebook and Twitter). Weld County also embeds its Facebook feed into its website so users do not have to have a Facebook account to view updates.

Learn more and download our Emergency Preparedness Guide at www.weldoem.com

Weld County Office of Emergency Management

www.weldgov.com

February 2, 2022

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Lost Creek Guide

Cindy Baumgartner and Keenesburg Board of Trustee Meeting on January 24, 2022

Since I’ve not heard from the board since the December 20th meeting, I started to look into things myself. I would like to share with you what I have found out. I sent out six public record requests asking for the following information: 1) Salary for their town manager for 2021/ 2022. 2) Salary for public works director for 2021/2022. 3) Total of utility bills sent monthly. 4) Total number of employees with in their town.

These are the finding starting with the largest towns to smallest by number of utility billings. And at the same time I figured what my water bill would be in their town using my gallons from my December billing and the sewer gallons my bill uses, which are 1570 gallons of water and 2590 sewer gallons.

City of Brighton Co. Manager salary 2021 $205,000 no raise for 2022/ Public works director $211,150 which was a 3% raise. Total utility bills sent 11,995. Total of employees 328 full time and 151 seasonal.

Town of Fort Lupton Manager salary $135,200 for 2021 and $160,950 for 2022, (a salary review for equality was performed and was determined that the town was behind.) Public works director $128,190 for 2021 and $133,318, 4% raise for 2022. 3) Utility billing 2,773.

4) Total of full time employees 163.

Town of Lochbuie Manager Salary $150,000. 2) Public works director $90,000. 3) Number of utility billing 2670. 4) Total number of employee positions 22.

City of Mead Co. Manager Salary $144,600 to $180,800 range 2) Public works director $60,200 to 75,200 range (Salary Grades changed for 2022) 3) Total of utility billing 1815. 4) Total number employees 37.

Town of Bennett Manager salary $138,915. 2021. Public works director $99,158 2021. 3) Utility billings 1037. 4) Total number of employees 32 Town of Keenesburg Manager salary $115,167 for 2021. Public works director $82,500 for 2021. 3) Total utility billings 802. 4) Total number of employees 16 full-time and 1 part time.

Town of Wiggins Co. Manager Salary $95,000 for 2022. Public works director 2021 $50,000 and 2022 2% raise $51,003. 3) Utility billing 705. 4) Total of employees 7 full time 3 part time with 3 seasonal.

Now for the water bill totals, my bill used in December these amounts 1570 gallons of water and 2590 sewer gallons. This list is from least expensive to must expensive.

1) City of Brighton $46.06 included Storm drain charge of $5.50.

2) Town of Platteville Co. $ 75.50. I looked into this because I believe their water is also bought water. Just sent my public records request on Friday the 21st so I don’t expect any information till Wednesday the 26th.

3) Town of Bennett $78.80 4) Town of Mead $79.79. They buy their water from Little Thompson Water District and Longs Peak Water District. So the town doesn’t set the water rates. I used the Little Thompson water because it is the more expensive of the two.

5) Fort Lupton $83.02 and they charge everyone for augmentation surcharge, system maintenance and storm drainage which I added in my total.

6) Town of Keenesburg $106.00 no extra charges.

7) Town of Wiggins $108.70 – in 2016 they had to go to CBT or South Platte Aluvil water because of quality of their two wells with an RO did not meet state regulations.

They have not increased their water rates since 2015-2016 but are looking into a rate change.

Now with all this information it is simple to see that our water bills are higher than they should be. So you can say we are Operational Heavy. Meaning Salaries and number of employees and maintenance and operating expenses are all part of why.

With the Nov. 15, 2021 meeting minutes I see you talked about raising the rates but no discussion was made on reviewing expenses or operating practices. To help make up the short fall.

Now back to salaries I feel that our manager and public works director are both within the range they should be, $115,167.00 and $82,500. Now of course if either furthered their education by classes or degrees or received any water or sewer licenses then that would call for a review.

I would also like to bring to the board’s attention that the last minutes on the web site are Nov 15th’s. With the number of employee’s we have I would think this could be kept in a timelier manner.

I would also like to request that the board ask staff to use pie charts for the meeting on February 28th with the public to go over the budget. If you would like to see an example go to the town of Ft. Lupton web site and find their budget on line, it is presented so well that it is easy to follow. CITIZENS OF KEENESBURG MARK YOUR CALENDERS FOR FEBRUARY 28TH. I have been in touch with the CDPHE to help understand how a Bi02 system works.

One of the engineers there is getting back with me tomorrow, and I will share what I find out. And then the staff can inform me of any other information they have since we last visited.

My last observation is to remind the board that the town voted for you to run the town not your employee’s. And as our town grows I’m asking, is it time for a change to bring in new ideas, experience and knowledge? Which in turn will benefit you and the town in these fast growing years that we are seeing.

Thank you for your time.

Cindy Baumgartner

Kevin Ross Announces Bid for County Commissioner continued from page 1...

worked hand-in-hand with the finance team to revise the county’s budget after it was impacted by Covid to ensure the county remained debt free and would not impose any tax increases.

The opportunity to run again came only after the announcement by Steve Moreno that he will retire at the end of his current term, Ross said. Moreno, who has one eligible term left as an at-large commissioner, has announced his intent to retire rather than run for re-election.

“Commissioner Moreno has been a champion for Weld County. After hearing of his decision to retire, I decided to enter the race to uphold his legacy and continue to take on the challenges the commissioners face.”

Ross, 43, has lived in Weld County for more than 35 years. Prior to being appointed to the at-large commissioner seat in 2020 vacated by Sean Conway, Ross served as Mayor of Eaton from 2016-2020.

During his time as Mayor, Ross was one of many Mayors who successfully opposed Proposition 112, which would have limited oil and gas production in Colorado. He was also the only elected official in Weld County to testify against both the Governor’s Low Emission Vehicle Standards and Zero Emission Vehicle Mandates. Ross also organized the expansion of fiber optic connectivity into the region to improve internet options for consumers.

Ross holds a finance degree from the University of Wyoming. He spent summers growing up working on the family’s wheat farm and successfully operated an insurance agency for sixteen years before joining Poudre Valley Capital, where he currently serves as vice president.

Since being elected to Eaton Town Board in 2012, Ross has served on multiple boards including the Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization, where he secured funding for the I-25 expansion. He also served on the Highway 85 Coalition and the I-25 Mayors Bullseye Coalition.

Ross lives in Eaton with his wife of 21 years, Amy, and their two daughters.

Ross’s announcement also comes with an endorsement from Moreno.

“Kevin was able to strengthen the communication lines with our municipalities and lead a regional approach to many of the infrastructure issues challenging our communities,” the outgoing Moreno, who served Weld County for nearly 40 years said. “I cannot think of anyone more qualified and suited for the role, and I fully support his run for commissioner.”

Current Weld County Commissioner Endorses Kevin Ross

Ross is seeking seat vacated by Steve Moreno (GREELEY) – Weld County Commissioner Mike Freeman has endorsed Kevin Ross to replace outgoing commissioner Steve Moreno in the November election.

The three-term commissioner, a fourth-generation farmer and small business owner from Ault, announced today his endorsement of former Eaton Mayor and former Weld County Commissioner Kevin Ross for Weld County Commissioner AtLarge. With the news of Commissioner Steve Moreno deciding to retire from the Board of County Commissioners, Freeman joined Moreno in his support of Ross.

“I can think of no one better to replace Commissioner Moreno than Kevin Ross,” Freeman said. “Kevin is a successful business owner, father, and former Eaton mayor.

He has been active in the community for over a decade. He has the experience and understanding to continue the practice of fiscally responsible, efficient government in Weld County.”

Ross, who was appointed in 2020 to fill a vacancy on the Weld Board of County Commissioners, served Weld County briefly during a difficult time.

“I have served as a Commissioner with Kevin,” Freeman said. “2020 was an extremely challenging year for anyone in public office. Kevin exhibited sound decision-making skills and true wisdom as we managed the County during an incredibly challenging period. Kevin is a proven leader with impeccable local government credentials. I am proud to endorse him for Weld County Commissioner At-Large.”

Freeman encourages his constituents to support Kevin Ross in his effort to become a Weld County Commissioner and learn more about him at KevinRossForWeld.org, adding, “Kevin is the clear, experienced choice for Weld County Commissioner AtLarge.”

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Lost Creek Guide

After Police and Sheriffs Deputies Left Agencies in Droves in 2021, Democratic Leaders Try to Stem the Tide

By Allison Sherry, Colorado Public Radio More law enforcement officers in Colorado left the profession in 2021 than in previous years — and sheriffs and police chiefs are struggling more than ever to fill the positions across the state.

More than 2,400 officers quit or were forced out of positions in 2021 and just over 1,700 officers were hired, according to data obtained by CPR News by Peace Officers Standards and Training under the Colorado Department of Law. That includes 30 officers who lost their license to be peace officers in the state due to misconduct or misdemeanor or felony convictions, according to data.

Overall, that’s a replacement rate of 74 percent.

This compares to 2018, when just 2,050 officers left the profession but 2,801 were hired.

“We are having a much more difficult time finding folks who are, one, qualified and, two, interested in a law enforcement career. It’s been a struggle,” said Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock. “It’s been more difficult in recruiting and more difficult in trying to retain some of the folks who are just leaving. It’s not about money and it’s not about benefits. We’ve tried to do a lot.”

Spurlock admits to poaching officers from other agencies and dangling generous benefits packages to get them through the door. He also said he’s started a pipeline to leadership program that helps deputies advance quickly if they want to.

One police reform sponsor says some attrition was expected State Rep. Leslie Herod, who has sponsored police reform legislation in previous years, said she expected some attrition when officers were held to higher standards on the job. She said she doesn’t think the current numbers tell a complete story.

“They have enough applicants to fill the positions, they’re just not meeting the requirements,” Herod said. “I think some are leaving because they’ve been terminated and didn’t like the new accountability laws and standards and some may not like the climate right now around policing.”

But she points out that sectors across the economy are feeling worker shortages.

“We’re seeing this in teachers, in nursing homes, in hospitals, in janitorial services,” Herod said. “When we look specifically at police officers how much of that is in line with the national trend?”

Police academies, too, slowed down admissions during the height of the pandemic in 2020, and because most of them are six to nine-month programs, the smaller pipeline is being felt now.

Who wants to be a cop in 2021? They do Many officers are burned out after working during the pandemic Law enforcement leaders cite a number of factors in why so many officers have left agencies in the past couple of years in Colorado.

The biggest one is likely utter burnout. Officers have been on the frontline as essential workers out on patrol and staffing jails throughout the deadly pandemic.

A number of officers have died of COVID-19 on the job, including Douglas County Det. Joe Pollack, 64, who died last month of the disease after being fully vaccinated.

Pollack had weak lungs, in part, due to work he did on Sept. 11, 2001, with the New York Police Department, where he spent 20 years earlier in his career. His death was considered a “line of duty” death.

“The last two years, think about these frontline workers who have put themselves on the line and risked their health and safety,” said Attorney General Phil Weiser. “We have so much trauma and difficulty coming out of this pandemic, a lot of people are saying I can’t take this anymore. I have to take a break.”

Law enforcement agencies’ morale is hurt, officials say Law enforcement officials also say the dialogue and criminal justice reform legislation borne out of the police brutality protests in the summer of 2020 hurt morale in agencies across the state.

Even if most officers agree that on-duty misconduct should result in criminal charges against individual officers, lawmakers and the media focus on “a few bad apples” instead of “the whole crate,” Spurlock said.

“The sentiment there for a long time was pretty strong about how people viewed law enforcement,” he said. “Out of 1,000 things a police officer does every day, 999 are done perfectly, but sometimes we do make mistakes and sometimes there are bad apples. I just think in this past couple of years, it’s been very difficult.”

At the Fort Collins Police Department, Chief Jeff Swoboda said they have been able to keep up with hiring for all their vacancies, but he’s noticed that about 30 percent fewer people want to take the test to become police officers.

“But we did notice that the people who were actually taking the tests were more focused,” he said.

February 2, 2022

Swoboda said all the officers coming up to Fort Collins from other agencies in the metro area want to know they’re going to be supported.

“I think many officers are making calculated decisions like, I still love this work, but I want to do it in a community that treats me well, that trains me,” he said. “They’re looking for organizations that are going to be vocal in their support for police officers.”

Swoboda points out that a Fort Collins couple recently walked in the door and donated $193,000 to his agency, which allowed him to buy rifle plates for his officers.

Polis and other Democratic lawmakers are focusing on supporting law enforcement Support for police is something that is being echoed at the very top levels of state government.

In Gov. Jared Polis’ state of the state address on Thursday, he asked for a standing ovation for law enforcement, saying, “today, let us stand up for you.”

He then pledged more resources for training and recruiting efforts and mental health support.

Weiser is working on a $10 million measure sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Jeff Bridges that will help retain existing officers and recruit new ones along with providing them more robust trauma counseling if they need it.

“Policing is a traumatic experience and we have to create space to let people recover from trauma and pushing people to work harder in policing is not smart from a public safety perspective,” he said. “We need more people to enter into this profession.”

CDA Announces Department’s New Deputy Commissioner of Operations

Broomfield, Colo. — Colorado Agriculture Commissioner Kate Greenberg has selected Hollis Glenn to serve as the Deputy Commissioner of Operations for the Colorado Department of Agriculture. Glenn is currently the Director of the Division of Inspection and Consumer Services (ICS). He will begin in the new position on February 1, 2022.

“Hollis’s deep roots in Colorado, his commitment to agriculture, and his experience with the state’s regulatory framework make him the perfect candidate to be CDA’s first Deputy Commissioner of Operations,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. “As we work to improve how CDA delivers services and makes them more accessible, Hollis will help ensure the Department continues to be an inclusive and respected partner in Colorado’s varied agricultural communities.”

Over the past 6 years, Glenn has overseen a number of regulatory programs that provide economic protection to agricultural producers and ensure Colorado consumers receive products that are safe, properly labeled, and sold in an honest manner.

“The regulatory arm of the Department of Agriculture works to protect consumers and benefit producers while encouraging equity in the marketplace. I look forward to creating and enhancing systems in our Department to ensure Colorado agriculture continues to be a vital part of our state’s economy and culture,” said Hollis Glenn.

Glenn serves on the Board of Directors of the American Association of Feed Control Officials and serves on the FDA Governing Council for the Partnership for Food Protection. He was appointed by Governor Polis to represent the Department of Agriculture on the Colorado Food System Advisory Council and was the recipient of the Colorado Farm Bureau’s “Who’s Who in Agriculture” in 2020. Glenn was born and raised in Colorado and earned his MBA from the University of Colorado at Denver.

Commissioner Greenberg has appointed Mark Gallegos to serve as Acting Director of ICS division. Gallegos is the Section Chief of the Technical Services Section (TSS).

He develops strategic planning and analysis and directs administration and daily operations for TSS. His regulatory work gives him an opportunity to engage with a wide range of industries including livestock, grain, and feed manufacturing. Gallegos graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture Business and comes from a family that has been involved in agriculture in Colorado since the late 1500s.

The Deputy Commissioner of Operations is a new position at CDA. The application period remains open until January 31 for Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture, the position currently held by Steve Silverman.

Aims Community College Offering Free Tax Prep Help

Aims Community College is continuing its 14th year with the Tax Help Colorado program. This program offers free tax help by IRS certified student and community volunteers. The program at Aims has grown to serve nearly 1,500 taxpayers per year.

Taxpayers who earn up to $58,000 gross annually are eligible for help preparing and electronically filing their federal and state tax returns at the Aims Community College campuses in Greeley, Fort Lupton, and Loveland.

All visitors and volunteers on campus will be asked to follow COVID-19 safety protocols, including wearing a mask and answering COVID-related questions.

For more information, visit aims.co/tax-help.

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

February 2, 2022

Colorado has Different Unleaded Regular Gas than Other States. Whether It’s Worse for the Environment is Complicated

By Miguel Otárola, Colorado Public Radio Like many Coloradans, Forrest Yang drives a Subaru. A Subaru Forester, to be precise.

“Don’t read too much into that with my name and the car’s name,” he told CPR News. “It is what it is.”

Yang lives in Denver but works on corporate tax issues in Greeley. He fills up his tank regularly because of the long commute and buys 87-octane gas as specified by the manufacturer. Yang has been tempted to fill up with the cheaper 85-octane blend.

“I see the price difference between 85 and 87, and I begrudgingly fill up with 87 every time,” Yang said. “I thought, so what’s the difference, really?” (As of the reporting of this piece, the price difference was 34 cents.)

He decided to raise his question to Colorado Wonders, an ongoing project where readers and listeners can ask questions about life in the state. Yang also wanted to know whether lower octane gasoline is worse for the environment.

It’s important to get one concept out of the way first. The octane rating at the pump refers to the likelihood the gasoline will self-combust when mixed with air and compressed in the engine, a phenomenon known as “knocking” or “pinging.” The higher the rating, the smaller the chance it will occur.

In most of the country, 87 is the lowest octane rating and is considered “regular” gasoline. That’s not the case in Colorado and other surrounding states, including Utah and Wyoming, where 85 octane gas is “regular” and 87 is considered “mid-grade.”

The reason for this difference comes down to altitude, said Mahesh Albuquerque, director of Colorado’s Division of Oil and Public Safety at the Department of Labor and Employment. Air is less dense at higher elevations, reducing the chance of engine knocking when using a lower-octane gas.

A 2015 study from the Coordinating Research Council, a nonprofit supported by the petroleum and automotive industries, showed using 85 octane gasoline at 5,000 feet was more fuel-efficient than using 87 octane gasoline at sea level.

“Arguably, fuel economy with 85 octane at elevation was better than 87 octane at sea level,” Albuquerque said.

Colorado’s Division of Oil and Public Safety recommends vehicle owners fill up their tank with the type of gasoline specified in the owner’s manual, Albuquerque said. Using a lower rating could lead to knocking and other engine problems.

Whether 85 octane gas pollutes more than 87 octane is less clear.

The Coordinating Research Council study showed no statistical significance in carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide emissions between 85 and 87 octane gas at high altitude.

There are caveats to this finding. Carbon monoxide emissions also depend on other factors such as a car’s combustion process and a driver’s behavior, according to the study. The council also said there are “no publicly available studies” that show “increased exhaust emissions” if a car recommended to use 87 octane gas runs on 85 octane instead.

There’s something for you at Aims.

Build new skills, work toward a degree or certificate, or take a class for fun.

Spring semester starts Jan. 18, 2022 Register now at

aims.edu GREEELEY FORT LUPTON LOVELAND WINDSOR ONLINE

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Vehicles made after 1984 are also designed to have the same octane requirements at all altitudes, the study’s authors wrote, meaning gas stations may not need to provide 85 octane gas. The researchers concluded that further study was needed.

Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency had indicated it would require higher-octane fuels in the future, new emission standards released by the agency this week focus on the growth of the electric vehicle market instead.

Gasoline-powered vehicles continue to dominate U.S. roads, including in Colorado, where the sale of “regular” 85 octane gasoline far outpaces other gasoline blends, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

With passenger vehicles responsible for more than half of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector, it is clear that cleaning our air requires more than just raising octane ratings at the pump.

ALL 9 REPUBLICAN US SENATE CANDIDATES CONFIRMED

FORT LUPTON, CO – The Republican Women of Weld will be hosting a Republican US Senate Candidate Forum, this event will feature all 9 candidates for the office of US Senate. Sponsored by “Weld Strong” and Roche Constructors Inc. This important forum will be held on Thursday February 3, 2022 between 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm MST, at the Rec Center in Fort Lupton, CO. Space is limited, and all media must be credentialed and registered by 5 pm Wednesday, February 2nd to gain access to the event. Due to space limitations, any media not credentialed and registered by the deadline will not be allowed in. Attendance for credentialed media is free, however if media plans to eat at the event, they must purchase a ticket beforehand. *Tickets will not be available for sale at the door.” * We will NOT be live streaming this event.

Any candidates who announce by the date of the forum, will also be invited. The evening begins with a meet and greet/ dinner with the candidates at 5:30, and the forum will begin promptly at 7pm. Veteran Political Strategist & Former Colorado State Republican Chairman Dick Wadhams will serve as moderator. Weld County Sheriff Steve Reams will be the Time-Keeper WHO: Republican Women of Weld WHAT: Republican US Senate Forum, featuring all 9 announced candidates WHEN: Thursday, February 3, 2022 5:30 (meet and greet/ dinner); Forum 7-9 pm WHERE: Fort Lupton Rec Center, 203 South Harrison Avenue, Fort Lupton, CO 80621 Confirmed candidates- Eli Bremer, Gino Campana, Deborah Flora, Ron Hanks, Daniel Hendricks, Juli Henry, Gregory Moore, Joe O’Dea, and Pete Yu For more information, or to credential and register as media, contact: Tammy Klein at (720) 290-3289 email Tscott@swspolifi.com tickets available at- www.WomenOfWeld.com

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February 2, 2022

Premier Farm Credit to Return $5.5 Million to Member-Owners in Early 2022

$5.5 MILLION

CASH PATRONAGE

THE $5.5 MILLION CASH PATRONAGE DEMONSTRATES OUR ONGOING COMMITMENT TO OUR MEMBER-OWNERS IT PAYS TO BE A MEMBER STERLING | HOLYOKE | YUMA | FORT MORGAN

PREMIERACA.com © 2022 Premier Farm Credit, ACA. All Rights Reserved. Equal Credit Opportunity Provider Serving All Eligible Markets.

Ryan Gonzalez Announces Bid for House District 50

Greeley banker ends bid for Congress: “A different set of constituents need me more right now.”

(GREELEY) – After much thought and prayer, Greeley resident Ryan Gonzalez is excited to announce that he is terminating his bid for the new Congressional District 8 seat so that he can fight for the people who are closest to his home in House District 50.

“Over the past three months, I have met with business owners, constituents, and elected officials throughout CD8,” Gonzalez said. “While I have been met with enthusiasm and support, and I believe I have much to offer CD8, there are other opportunities that I have been called on to do.”

Gonzalez, a Republican, will now focus his campaign on the people of House District 50, people he said live their lives as he does. He will fight to protect the morals and principles they value.

“This decision was incredibly hard,” Gonzalez said. “But a different set of constituents need me more right now. I thank everyone that supported me to this point, and I hope you will continue to support me as I transition to this new challenge.”

Gonzalez is the son of Mexican immigrants and one of three children. He was the first in his family to graduate from Northridge High School (2013) and obtain a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from the University of Northern Colorado (2018).

Gonzalez is also a 2021 graduate of the Leadership Program of the Rockies (LPR), founded by former Rep. Bob Schaffer, 4th CD. LPR trains emerging leaders in America’s founding principles — why they were important in the beginning and how they apply to the challenges of today as well as teaching and fine-tuning emerging leaders the skills necessary to impact public policy.

“I have had an unprecedented amount of support and encouragement for House District 50,” said Gonzalez, who moved to Greeley from Fort Morgan when he was 13.

“The people, the community and the culture is in need of true leadership. I will not allow these radicals in the state legislature to take this once great state further down the hold they’ve dug.”

Gonzalez pointed to rising crime rates, skyrocketing cost of living, growing homelessness and taxes and fees eating away at Coloradans pocketbooks. He promises to work to cut spending and taxes and fees, drive down unemployment, and end government mandates.

“I will not allow our children to be indoctrinated, but educated,” Gonzalez said. “I will do everything to ensure these radical policies are stopped, and I will work to not only pass sound laws but repeal unnecessary and unjust laws. I will not only work for the people of HD50 but help my Republican colleagues in the house keep Polis in check. Energy is under assault; our economy needs revamped; our agriculture needs rejuvenated; and our small businesses must be allowed to thrive. I am the person to deny current Democrat Rep. Mary Young another term.”

January 20, 2022, Sterling, Colorado – Local ag-lending cooperative Premier Farm Credit has announced that they will mail $5.5 million in Cash Patronage Dividend checks to their member-owners in early 2022.

“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. “$5.5 million dollars is a significant amount and demonstrates the Board of Directors’ ongoing commitment to supporting the member-owners of this lending cooperative - in good times and bad.”

This year’s substantial payout marks the 25th consecutive year Premier Farm Credit has paid a Cash Patronage Dividend, bringing the total returned in that time frame to nearly $74 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 member-owners 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 $859 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.

New Economic Analysis has Farmers Raising Concerns about Looming Tariffs on Nitrogen Fertilizers

Colorado Corn Press Release A new economic analysis released by researchers at Texas A&M University has corn producers raising concerns that pending tariffs on nitrogen fertilizers will create shortages and cause prices to increase even more for farmers, according to the National Corn Growers Association.

“As part of this study, we conducted a historical analysis going back to 1980 and found that fertilizer costs tend to go up when corn revenues increase,” lead researcher Joe Outlaw, Ph.D., noted. “Notably, these prices tend to go up exponentially even after accounting for natural gas prices and higher demand.”

The study notes that the price of one type of nitrogen fertilizer, called anhydrous ammonia, increased by $688 per ton – $86,000 for a 1,000-acre farm – from the end of 2020 through the end of October 2021.

The study has farmers raising concerns about a petition by CF Industries, one of the country’s major nitrogen producers, with the U.S. International Trade Commission to impose tariffs on nitrogen fertilizers imported from Trinidad & Tobago and Russia. The U.S. Department of Commerce has since released a preliminary finding recommending tariffs, despite strong outcry from farm groups.

“The proposed tariffs will create shortages and drive our costs up even higher,” Iowa farmer and National Corn Growers Association President Chris Edgington said.

“They will add insult to injury and impose a financial hardship on family farms.”

“This academic study verifies that nitrogen prices erode profitability for family farms,” Edgington said.

“Our request is simple,” he said. “We’re just asking that these companies keep us out of their trade disputes, and they do everything possible to keep their products available and affordable for family farms.”

This increase has also been seen in Colorado. “Our farmers are facing record breaking fertilizer prices for this upcoming growing season. From a year ago January to now anhydrous ammonia increased in cost by 185% per ton on the open market,” said Jeremy Fix, President of the Colorado Corn Administrative Committee, “and the brunt of this increase will be borne by your local family farmers.”

The study was commissioned by state corn organizations in Texas, Missouri, Colorado (Colorado Corn Administrative Committee), Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee and Wisconsin.

February 2, 2022

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Weld County Assessor Brenda Dones Seeks Re-Election

GREELEY, CO – January 20, 2022 – Brenda Dones has announced her candidacy for re-election for the position of Weld County Assessor in November 2022. If elected, this would be Dones’ second term in the position.

The Assessor is responsible for managing the discovery, classification, listing and valuation of all property within Weld County for the purpose of developing a fair and equitable tax base. In 2021, the office valued 185,000 parcels with an assessed value of $12.4 billion.

Dones made the official announcement on Wednesday. “I am so proud of the work we do in the office and my top goal is to ensure we are always striving to do better.

We need to continually provide more transparency to our data, easier access to our services, and excellent customer service to our citizens and local governments. We need to challenge our processes to ensure efficiency while achieving fair and equitable valuations.” Dones stated that rapid growth and legislative changes are going to continue to be challenges but she is confident in the abilities of her office. “I am very fortunate to have a top-tier staff that is dedicated to serving the public in the most efficient and effective manner.”

Dones has over 28 years of experience in the business and has served in the Weld County Assessor’s office for over 22 years, including the past three years as Assessor.

She has a thorough understanding of the responsibilities and functions of the Assessor’s Office. Her background includes work as an appraiser and as a Property Tax Specialist for the Colorado Division of Property Taxation. She spent 8 years as the Senior Analyst for Weld County, in 2007 she was appointed to the position of Chief Deputy and in 2019 she became the first female Assessor in Weld County history. The Colorado Assessors’ Association recognized her as the 2021 Assessor of the Year due to her leadership.

About Brenda Dones A Colorado native, Dones graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a B. A. in Mathematics, is a Colorado Certified General Appraiser, member of the Colorado Association of Tax Appraisers, and the International Association of Assessing Officers. She is the 1st Vice President and Oil and Gas chairman of the Colorado Assessors’ Association. Brenda was a charter board member of the Poudre Learning Center Foundation, is a Past President and active member of Greeley Centennial Rotary Club, was a past Chair of Leadership Weld County and is a current board member of the Weld Community Foundation. Brenda and her husband Wade spend their free time working outdoors on their 80-acre irrigated farm, camping, hunting, fishing, skiing, and enjoying the best Colorado has to offer. Visit http:// donesforassessor.com/ for more information.

CPW Sportsperson’s Caucus Seeks Northeast Region Delegate; Virtual Meeting Held for Updates on Hunting and Angling

DENVER - Sportspersons from across Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Northeast Region are invited to a virtual caucus meeting with Regional Manager Mark Leslie and staff to hear updates from CPW on hunting, angling and other topics within the region.

The Northeast Region Sportsperson’s Caucus is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 9. Folks wishing to participate in the ZOOM meeting can do so by registering here. The Sportsperson Caucus will also Photo by Jason Clay/CPW simulcast online over CPW’s YouTube channel.

Attendees of the meeting will elect one delegate that will serve as a regional representative at the statewide Sportsperson’s Roundtable. This elected individual will be one of two representing the Northeast Region on important issues at the

statewide level. Nominations for the regional delegates are currently being accepted and during the Feb. 9 meeting, voting will take place to elect the new delegate.

To apply to be a regional delegate, please email Chasta LaBass at chasta.labass@ state.co.us. The deadline to apply is Monday, Feb. 7.

Regional delegates have the opportunity for direct communication with CPW and Director Dan Prenzlow about hunting, fishing and other issues in the northeast region. Regional delegates will be expected to attend the statewide Sportsperson’s Roundtable that meets twice a year. The next statewide meeting is being held on Saturday, March 5 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CPW relies on the roundtable to help give guidance in setting policies, regulations and resource management.

During the Northeast Region Sportsperson’s Caucus, staff from CPW will also be presenting on the following topics and will field questions from participants: • The public process on preference points, license allocations, over-the-counter licenses and the ongoing big game attitude survey • Update on wolves • CPW’s purchase of the Colorado Clays Shooting Park • Status update on big game herds in the region • Keep Colorado Wild Bill (SB21-249) implementation • CPW’s 125th anniversary celebration • Other updates • Questions from attendees “Meeting regularly with the hunting and angling public in our region is invaluable,” Leslie said. “We appreciate the time sportspersons take to join us for these meetings.

This is an opportunity to have knowledgeable staff members available to provide important updates and to answer questions.”

The caucus will begin at 6 p.m. and run no later than 8 p.m.

If you wish to submit questions in advance of the meeting to be sure your topic is covered, please email those to jason.clay@state.co.us.

2727,2022 Sunday, February27, 2022 or SUNDAY, MARCH 6, 2022 (if inclement weather)

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We Now Know Lightning Didn’t Spark the Marshall Fire, but Not Much Else is Publicly Known about the Investigation

By Joe Wertz and Veronica Penney, Colorado Public Radio

Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite A pedestrian on an open space trail passes homes in Superior, Colorado, on Monday,. Jan. 3, 2022, destroyed by the Marshall fire.

Nearly a month after a wind-whipped grass fire engulfed Boulder County neighborhoods, destroying more than a thousand homes and forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of suburban residents, investigators say they’re still probing multiple potential causes.

Few details about the investigation have been made public. The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office says it’s casting a wide net and considering all possibilities.

However, a spokesperson confirmed that investigators are actively focused on three explanations: downed power lines, human activity, and underground coal fires.

“We know our community members want to know what happened and we are doing everything we can to make that happen,” said Carrie Haverfield, public information officer for the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office.

At stake are potential criminal charges, and hundreds of millions in liability claims for lost homes, businesses, infrastructure and open space in Boulder County.

The Marshall fire ignited on Dec. 30 and spread ravenously to neighborhoods in Superior and Louisville, feeding on drought-cured grass and stoked by winds that gusted more than 100 mph from west to east.

In the fire’s immediate aftermath, Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle suggested downed power lines were the likely cause. He quickly became less certain as multiple possibilities emerged.

Initial reports blamed downed power lines The first caller to report the fire and the first firefighter to arrive at the scene told dispatchers that a power line was hanging low across the road, but the firefighter did not initially spot flames. He asked for Xcel Energy to be dispatched to repair the line while he continued to search. Pelle later said Xcel cooperated with the investigation, checked the area, found no downed lines, and he walked back the theory that power lines had sparked the fire.

Adding to the uncertainty, the area’s two largest telecommunications providers, Comcast and Lumen (formerly CenturyLink), also told CPR News that they had no wires down in the immediate area when the fire started. It remains unknown what kind of line the firefighter saw hanging low across the road — or who owns it.

Power lines and electrical equipment have started destructive wildfires across the West, including California’s massive Dixie fire in 2021. In December, Pacific Gas & Electric agreed to pay $125 million in fines under a settlement agreement after investigators determined a faulty transmission line ignited the 2019 Kincade fire.

Shortly after the Marshall fire was contained, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms joined the investigation. Attention soon turned to property owned by Twelve Tribes, a fringe Christian sect founded in the 1970s, as a possible ignition source.

A search for clues Authorities seized control of the Twelve Tribes property and executed a search

Auto, Home, Farm & Commercial

Agents Mark Kinnear Devon Kitchell 303-732-9700 20 S. Main Keenesburg, CO

February 2, 2022

warrant. It’s unknown what evidence they found — if any. Officials have declined to give any additional information, citing the ongoing investigation, but the property appears to have been released back to the group.

Two separate motorists spotted fires at or near the Twelve Tribes property days before and then possibly around the time the blaze is thought to have ignited.

One passer-by called police to report open burning on the property on Dec. 24.

Crews with Mountain View Fire and Rescue responded and spoke to a man who was burning railroad ties in a dirt field, according to a summary report provided by the department. Fire crews reported the man had a front-end loader and a water source to control the fire, and the firefighters left the location 10 minutes after arriving.

On the morning of the Marshall fire, a Twitter user posted a now-viral video of wood, possibly a structure, burning behind the buildings on the Twelve Tribes property in an area where construction equipment is parked. The video is not timestamped, but the user said it was filmed at 11:30 am, which would be 24 minutes after the initial report, and nine minutes after firefighters started battling the blaze well east of where the Twitter user said they saw the fire burning. Investigators have not said whether they have authenticated the video.

Boulder County firefighters lost crucial early minutes because they couldn’t find the start of the Marshall fire Twelve Tribes did not return a call from CPR News requesting comment, but an anonymous member of the community told The Denver Post the group is cooperating with investigators.

Investigators are also examining whether an underground fire in an abandoned coal mine could have sparked the Marshall fire.

State regulators actively monitor 38 ongoing coal fires across the state, a toxic and dangerous legacy of a once-crucial industry. The fires can erupt spontaneously and burn for a century in underground coal seams that are exposed to oxygen.

Underground coal fires have occasionally triggered above-ground wildfires, including the 2002 Coal Seam fire that torched 29 homes near Glenwood Springs.

Two of the coal fires monitored by the state are located near areas engulfed in the Marshall fire. A 2018 report from the Colorado Department of Natural Resources Division of Mining Reclamation Safety classified the fires as having low activity and posing a “very low” and “low” safety risk, respectively. The coal fires’ proximity to the Marshall Fire was first reported by 9News.

Jeff Graves, director of the state’s Inactive Mine Reclamation Program, said his office didn’t have any additional information about the investigation or any potential connection to coal fires.

Causes often remain a mystery Two people likely died in the Marshall fire, which is now considered the most destructive ever recorded in Colorado. The fire was fueled by dry conditions and months of unseasonably warm temperatures, factors scientists say are intensified by climate change.

Experts at the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, which provided additional investigators during the first days of the Marshall fire probe but is no longer involved, said there is no standard timeline for a fire investigation.

“Each fire is unique,” said Christopher Brunette, the section chief for Fire and Life Safety. “It’s kind of like a fingerprint.”

To understand how a fire started and spread, investigators examine burned materials, looking at which side of an object burned and for patterns that show how the fire moved. Dawn Tollis, the lead fire investigator for the division’s investigations unit, said large fires often take longer to solve because they require more resources, including more investigators on the ground and more equipment to move debris.

Investigators assigned to California’s Dixie Fire, which destroyed more than 1,200 buildings last summer, took nearly six months to determine that a tree fell on a PG&E power line, sparking the blaze. The 2012 Waldo Canyon fire in Colorado Springs burned more than 300 homes and remains unsolved. The two largest fires in Colorado, 2020’s East Troublesome and Cameron Peak, remain unsolved more than a year later, though both are believed to have been caused by humans.

Investigators have failed to determine what or who created the initial spark in more than half of the largest human-caused fires in Colorado between 2000 and 2018.

How humans start most of Colorado’s wildfires — and get away with it Fire division officials said that the high winds fueled the Marshall fire have complicated investigators’ understanding of how the flames behaved. Broadening the investigation to include coal fires and any other possibilities is not unusual because eliminating everything that did not cause the fire is just as important as finding the ignition source.

“Historically, there have been fires there,” Tollis said. “To do our due diligence, we have to make sure that that is either eliminated or included as a possible cause.”

The most recent assessment by a Boulder County task force estimates the fire caused more than $513 million in residential damage alone, making it the costliest fire in the state’s history.

More than one thousand homes were destroyed, and Brunette said he knows it’s important for people to know how the Marshall fire started as part of the healing process.

“We know they’re hurting. We know it might be a while before there’s answers,” he said. “We’re trying so hard to not miss something.”

Westview Farm – Dorper Lambs & Working Stock Dogs We moved to Keenesburg about five years ago, brining with us our registered Dorper Sheep and our line of working Australian Shepherds. We are Hall of Fame breeders since 1929. Dick’s first registered Aussie/Sorensens Gunsmoke, was born in 1964. We have grass-fed lambs every Fall for processing and once every year or so a litter of super stock working puppies. See our website now!

Give us a call to talk dogs, sheep or hay. We support 4-H every year! Dick & Leslie Sorensen, 970-568-3806 or cell 970-213-3891 or coloradoaussies.com

February 2, 2022

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UNC Hosting Free Event to Inspire Future Teachers Across Colorado

GREELEY, CO (Jan. 19, 2022): High school and community college students interested in teaching careers have an opportunity to hear from professional educators and gain valuable knowledge about the field during a free two-day event next month at the University of Northern Colorado.

UNC’s seventh annual Future Teacher Conference runs in tandem this year with the Colorado Center for Rural Education’s (CCRE) 2022 Future Rural Teachers Summit, Feb. 17-18. The two-day event is an opportunity for aspiring teachers to get first-hand knowledge about what a teaching career is really like from a variety of experts in the field, and to learn what the college experience is like from current students in UNC’s education programs.

Participants can register for one or both conferences. Online registration closes on Feb. 4.2022

Future Rural Teachers Summit

Feb. 17, 5:30-9 p.m.

CCRE’s Future Rural Teachers Summit is designed for students who want to teach in a rural community. Participants will have the opportunity to meet peers with similar interests and participate in group discussions about rural education experiences.

The evening also offers campus tours, an information fair with UNC faculty and a question-and-answer session about UNC’s education preparation programs.

“There are many great reasons to become a rural educator,” said Robert Fulton, Ph.D., who serves as state coordinator for the CCRE. “Most importantly, is that rural teachers get to know their students and families and see their students as whole beings. This summit is a good place for a future rural teacher to get started.”

Free lodging and board are available for students and their chaperones on UNC’s campus in Wilson Hall, including dinner and breakfast on Friday morning.

Learn more and register for the 2022 Future Rural Teachers Summit.

2022 Future Teacher Conference

Feb. 18, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

UNC’s Future Teacher Conference kicks off with breakfast and an address from keynote speaker Gerardo Munoz, 2021 Colorado Teacher of the Year and a social studies teacher at Denver Center for International Studies at Baker.

Students will participate in interactive workshops, where they can learn more about a wide variety of career opportunities, including early childhood, elementary and secondary education, special education, rural and urban education, educational technology, music and arts education and culturally and linguistically diverse education. A parent seminar is available for families who would like more information about paths to teaching, including information about UNC’s admissions process.

“This conference has been a highlight for prospective teachers across Colorado and the region for the past six years,” said Suzette Youngs, Ph.D., associate professor of Literacy Education at UNC. “It’s an amazing opportunity for attendees to experience a day in the life of a UNC college student and to experience classes in teacher prep coursework. These learning experiences are also an opportunity for high school and community college students to decide if teaching is a career they want to pursue.”

In addition to providing valuable information for aspiring educators, the conference also serves an important role in supporting prospective and current teachers in Colorado. That’s something Youngs and conference co-director, Chris Kyser, Ed.D., feel is critical to helping address Colorado’s teacher shortage.

“Our ultimate goal for the conference is to increase the number of highly qualified teachers across the state of Colorado.,” said Kyser, who is an assistant professor in UNC’s School of Teacher Education. “We are, and have been for some time, experiencing an extreme teacher shortage. And, with drastically reduced numbers of students entering teacher preparation programs, we simply do not have enough teachers. While we recognize that teaching, especially today, is incredibly challenging, we’ve also been inspired by the amazing teachers we work with at UNC, and we have so much hope for the profession.”

Learn more and register for the 2022 Future Teachers Conference.

February 2, 2022

Thanks in Part to Federal Relief Funds, Most Colorado Hospitals were Profitable in 2020

A new report found that hospitals in the Denver area netted $1 billion less on patient care in 2020 due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic

By John Ingold, The Colorado Sun A new report from a national expert on hospital finances shows that Colorado hospitals weathered the early months of the coronavirus pandemic profitably, despite seeing a steep decline in revenue related to patient care.

Hospitals in the Denver metro area posted combined profits of nearly $1.4 billion in 2020, according to the report from Allan Baumgarten, a Minnesota-based health care consultant who has been producing reports on the Colorado hospital market for more than 20 years. His reports are drawn from data the hospitals submit to the federal government and are considered among the most reliable for tracking hospital finances in the state.

Baumgarten also found that health insurance companies in Colorado recorded record profits in 2020. Health maintenance organizations, or HMOs, in the state logged profits of about $662 million in 2020, a roughly 6% margin. Baumgarten found that the unexpected expenses that insurers incurred related to caring for coronavirus patients were more than offset by the amount insurers had to pay for other types of care – such as nonemergency surgeries – that were delayed during the pandemic.

“Even in times of great distress, hospital systems and health insurers are doing quite well for themselves,” Baumgarten said.

The profits for Denver-area hospitals – roughly an 11% margin relative to net patient revenue – represent a considerable decline from 2018, when they posted a record $2.1 billion in profits. But Baumgarten found that the decline could have been much steeper.

Hospitals in the Denver metro area took in nearly $440 million less in revenue related to patient care in 2020 than in 2019 – likely the result of the pandemic shutting down lucrative elective procedures at hospitals during its earliest months, as well as people postponing care out of fear of being exposed to the coronavirus. Hospitals also saw roughly $627 million more in expenses during 2020.

The result – a more than $1 billion double-whammy – pushed operating income from patient care down to about $246 million, combined, for Denver metro hospitals, far below the $1.3 billion hospitals made off of patient care in 2019, according to Baumgarten’s report.

Two hospitals – National Jewish Health and Children’s Hospital Colorado – each lost more than $100 million treating patients in 2020, according to Baumgarten’s report.

But hospitals saw an infusion from other sources of revenue – most notably federal stimulus dollars, but also investment income and charitable donations. Baumgarten found that Denver-area hospitals took in a combined $1.1 billion in non-patient revenue in 2020, the highest amount in at least three years. About $386 million of that came from federal provider relief funds, Baumgarten reported.

After adding in non-patient revenue, Baumgarten found that only four metro-area hospitals – Porter Adventist Hospital, Lutheran Medical Center, and the UCHealth hospitals in Highlands Ranch and Broomfield – failed to turn a profit in 2020.

All of Colorado’s major hospital systems in the Denver metro area were profitable in 2020, with privately owned HealthONE on top with profits of about $626 million before taxes, according to Baumgarten’s report. When adding in profits from hospitals outside the metro area, UCHealth pulled ahead, with about $630 million.

The exterior of the University of Colorado Hospital on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora, photographed on Oct. 18, 2019. The hospital is the flagship of the UCHealth system. (John Ingold, The Colorado Sun)

Baumgarten said the trends are similar nationwide.

“Large hospital systems around the country, from what I’ve seen, continue to do very well,” he said.

For smaller hospitals outside the metro area, 2020 was a more challenging year.

Of the 29 largest non-Denver-metro hospitals in Colorado, seven of them lost money in 2020. Combined, the hospitals reported about $620 million in profits in 2020, around a 9% margin when calculated as a percentage of net patient revenue.

Baumgarten produces his reports on Colorado hospital and health insurer finances every other year. The data in them is drawn largely from Medicare cost reports, which hospitals are required to file with the federal government.

This year’s report shows only an incomplete picture of the pandemic. Baumgarten said some hospitals ended their 2020 financial years in June of that year, while others went through December.

A spokeswoman for the Colorado Hospital Association said her organization had not yet seen Baumgarten’s report and could not comment. In the past, hospitals have noted that profits are necessary to upgrade old equipment, refurbish worn facilities and save for the future. While most of Colorado’s hospitals are nonprofit, privately owned hospitals also must pay taxes on their profits.

The Colorado Sun is a reader-supported news organization that covers Colorado people, places and issues. To sign up for free newsletters, subscribe or learn more, visit ColoradoSun.com

February 2, 2022

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Lost Creek Guide

Colorado Pork Producers to Hold Annual Meeting

The annual meeting of the Colorado Pork Producers Council will be held February 21, 2022, 9:00 am at the Morgan County Fairgrounds in Brush, Colorado. All pork producers, veterinarians, Extension Agents, leaders who work with swine projects, students, educators youth and other allied members and interested parties are invited to attend.

The highlight of the meeting will be a presentation highlighting resources to help producers with their reproductive success on farms, as well as updates and challenges to the industry in coming year.

The Colorado State Vets office, National Pork Board, National Pork Producers Council and US Meat Export Federation will be updating industry leaders on challenges, successes and looking ahead.

Youth and youth workers are encouraged to attend as a discussion from participants in the state pork production cost share program will be presenting their projects successes and challenges.

There will be an election of members for the Colorado Pork Producers Council board of directors, and anyone interested in running for the board and are current pork producers within the state of Colorado are asked to contact the CPPC office for information.

The election of Pork Act Delegates for the 2023 Pork Forum will also be conducted.

Proof of payment of check off fees is required to run and vote in this election. More information can be found by contacting the office.

RSVP is requested by February 19, 2022 at 5:00 pm.

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

Governor Polis Appoints Treasurer Stapleton to Economic Development Commission

DENVER - Governor Jared Polis announced the appointment of former State Treasurer Walker Stapleton as the Governor’s Designee on the Economic Development Commission.

Walker Stapleton is a businessman who previously served two terms as Colorado State Treasurer and was the 2018 Republican nominee for Governor. Governor Polis is committed to accelerating Colorado’s economy as it bounces back from the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Bipartisanship is crucial to our state’s economic recovery and former Treasurer Stapleton’s appointment to this important committee ensures across-the-aisle cooperation and commitment to support and strengthen Colorado’s small businesses.

“A strong recovery with the healing we need to overcome the pandemic induced challenges and divides means we need an all hands on deck approach from Democrats, Republicans and Independents to put our state and our people first. That’s why I am thrilled to appoint Walker Stapleton to one of the most important commissions in our state. The Economic Development Commission plays an important role in creating good jobs in Colorado, rebuilding from pandemic induced disruptions to businesses, and supporting our work to save people money,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Colorado is a great place to do business, and there are so many companies in California, Texas, and elsewhere looking for a new home and we want those good jobs right here in Colorado. That’s why I’m proud to name Walker Stapleton to the Economic Development Commission board as an experienced champion for growing strong businesses right here in Colorado, and look forward to working with him to make life more affordable for business owners and community members with even better opportunities to thrive.”

“I’m thankful to Governor Polis for the opportunity to once again serve the great state of Colorado by joining the Economic Development Commission,” said former Treasurer Walker Stapleton. “I’m honored to join an outstanding group of business leaders with diverse backgrounds who share an unwavering commitment to Colorado’s future. I look forward to working hard on this commission to ensure that Colorado’s economy thrives. Colorado always works better when people set aside their differences and work together to solve problems. This is what today is all about.”

The Colorado Economic Development Commission develops and implements programs to promote economic development in Colorado and creates incentive packages to assist with existing business expansions and new company relocation. The Commission is made up of 11 members: 5 by the Governor, 3 appointed by the Senate, 3 by the House and Stapleton will be the Governor’s designee on the commission.

The Commission oversees the Advanced Industries Accelerator Programs, Colorado Film Incentive, Enterprise Zone Program, Job Growth Incentive Tax Credit, Regional Tourism Act, Rural Jump-Start Program and Strategic Fund Job Growth Incentive.

Tax & Accounting Solutions

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303-233-6118

• Individual, Corporate and Partnership Tax Prep • Estate and Trust Prep • Tax Planning • Bookkeeping and Payroll Services • Sales Tax Returns • Financial Statements • CFO, Controller Services

Keene Craft Mercantile

A Special Place Where Talented People Bring Their Home-made Crafts to Sell The Perfect Place to Find a Special Valentine Gift!

We are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am until 5 pm

65 Main Street, Keenesburg, Colorado 303-910-0640

There is also “pickle/pull tabs” available everyday!

Please come join us for some fun and socializing!

Spring has not arrived in Wiggins yet. Photo by Allois Spucie

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Lost Creek Guide

Republican Women of Weld Host Republican Candidates for Governor in Fort Lupton

The Republican Women of Weld (WOW) hosted a dinner meeting to hear from the candidates running for the Republican nomination to challenge Governor Polis. The event was moderated by Dick Wadhams, timekeeper was Steve Reams. Five candidates were present. Heidi Ganahl did not attend as she had been exposed to COVID 19. In attendance were Greg Lopez, Jason Lopez, Danielle Neuschwanger, Jeff Fry and Jon Gray-Ginsberg.

The team at Women of Weld did a great job organizing the event, especially Tammy Klein. There well over 100 attendees. It is good for the area to show such strong participation and support for our democratic processes. WOW plans to sponsor a similar event for the candidates running for the U.S. senate seat that is up for election this year. The Republican primary is set for June 28th, 2022. The event is available to watch on the Republican Women of Weld’s Facebook page. In the straw poll conducted with about 100 participants was Danielle Neuschwanger with Greg Lopez coming in second.

February 2, 2022

USDA to Invest Up to $225 Million in Partner-Driven Conservation on Agricultural and Forest Land

WASHINGTON, Jan. 13, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced up to $225 million in available funding for conservation partners through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). RCPP is a partner-driven program that leverages collective resources to find solutions to address natural resource challenges on agricultural land. This year’s funding announcements include opportunities for projects that address climate change, benefit historically underserved producers and support urban agriculture.

“RCPP is public-private partnership at its best,” said Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Chief Terry Cosby. “We’re harnessing the power of partnership to create lasting solutions to global challenges, like climate change, and support producers and communities who have been underserved in the past.”

There are two types of funding opportunities under RCPP: RCPP Classic and RCPP Alternative Funding Arrangements (AFA). RCPP Classic projects are implemented using NRCS contracts and easements with producers, landowners and communities, in collaboration with project partners. Through RCPP AFA, partners have more flexibility in working directly with agricultural producers to support the development of new conservation structures and approaches that would not otherwise be available under RCPP Classic. Project types that may be suited to AFA, as highlighted by the 2018 Farm Bill include: • Projects that use innovative approaches to leverage the federal investment in conservation.

• Projects that deploy a pay-for-performance conservation approach.

• Projects that seek large-scale infrastructure investment that generate conservation benefits for agricultural producers and nonindustrial private forest owners.

USDA is accepting project proposals for both components of RCPP through 11:59 p.m. on April 13, 2022. View the funding opportunity on grants.gov for RCPP Classic and RCPP AFA. Additionally, a webinar with general program information for RCPP applicants is scheduled for 3-4:30 p.m. ET on Jan. 20, 2022. Visit the RCPP website for information on how to participate.

Funding is open to agriculture and silviculture associations, non-government organizations, Indian tribes, state and local governments, conservation districts and universities, among others.

Partners are expected to offer value-added contributions to amplify the impact of RCPP funding in an amount equal to or greater than the NRCS investment.

Private landowners can apply to participate in an RCPP project in their region through awarded partners or at their local USDA service center.

2 PERSON TEAMS Cancellation Scoring WINNING TEAM GETS 50% OF ENTRANCE FEES

MEET THE CANDIDATE FORUMS In March, United Power will host four candidate forums for members. Forums are free, RSVPs are not required and light refreshments will be served.

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2022 | 7:30 a.m.

Coal Creek Canyon Community Center 3158 Highway 72, Golden 80403 MONDAY, MARCH 28, 2022 | 6:30 p.m.

Riverdale Regional Park, Waymire Dome 9755 Henderson Rd, Brighton 80601 Offered as Hybrid Event: Livestream online at www.unitedpower.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2022 | 7:30 a.m.

Fort Lupton Recreation Center, Room 3 203 S. Harrison, Ft. Lupton 80621

THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022 | 6:30 p.m.

Carbon Valley Service Center 9586 E I-25 Frontage Rd, Longmont 80504

ANNUAL ME ETING Wed, April 1 3, 2022 Riverdale Re

gional Park More inform ation at www.united power.com

COVID-19 NOTICE United Power is monitoring COVID-19 restrictions, and in the event conditions do not permit inperson events, virtual formats will still be available. Visit www.unitedpower.com for updates and current health department requirements.

ENTRANCE FEES

Where: American Legion 595 E Railroad Ave, Keenesburg

When: January 13th, February 10th, March 10th, April 14th

6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Teams of two can be anyone! Couples, co-workers, chamber members… doesn’t matter, just make sure you are ready for a great time and that your throwing arms are ready.

Register today!

Dinner provided. Beverages available for purchase through the American Legion.

Brought to you by the Southeast Weld County Chamber and the following sponsors:

PER EVENT CHAMBER MEMBER $30 PER TEAM NON-CHAMBER $40 PER TEAM You must pre-register your team by text or email. Payment will be accepted at the event in cash or check.

FOOD AND Deadline to enter is the day prior.

WATER/POP WILL Be at the before 5:50pm or lose BELegion AVAILABLE your slot!

To Register, email or text: SEWCCornhole@gmail.com 303-887-8846 To become a Chamber Member visit the SEWCC Website: https://southeastweldchamber .wpcomstaging.com

February 2, 2022

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Lost Creek Guide

Inside Freddy’s in Brighton

Official Ribbon Cutting for Freddy’s in the Prairie Center

Freddy’s Grand Opening in Brighton at Prairie Center

BRIGHTON, Colorado – Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers®, a fast-casual restaurant concept, opened Tuesday, Dec. 28, at 2203 Prairie Center Pkwy. Freddy’s is known for its cooked-to-order steakburgers made with lean 100 percent ground beef, Vienna® Beef hot dogs, crispy shoestring fries and frozen custard treats made with freshly churned chocolate or vanilla frozen custard.

“The Prairie Center district is so dynamic, we are happy to be a part of the development,” said Brian Pyle, franchise owner. “The steady flow of traffic through the area makes it a great fit for Freddy’s.”

The 3,050 square-foot, freestanding restaurant seats 84 guests and has additional seating on the patio. Drive-thru service is also available. Hours of operation are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

“We take pride in being a part of the community and being a good neighbor to the residents and businesses nearby,” said Pyle. “We look forward to serving area shoppers looking for a quick bite to eat, as well as guests who want to relax and enjoy a fresh meal and dessert treat with family and friends.”

Following the December 28 opening of Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers® in Prairie Center, the Brighton Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), the Greater Brighton Chamber of Commerce and the City of Brighton invited the public to join a ribbon cutting on Thursday, January 6 at 10 a.m. to officially welcome the fast-casual restaurant to the City of Brighton.

“We are thrilled to have Freddy’s officially open in Brighton,” said Patrick Giron, President & CEO of the Brighton EDC . “The community’s response to Freddy’s in town has been overwhelmingly positive, so we are so glad that Brightonians have this great new food option in the city.”

Co-founded in 2002 by Scott Redler and Bill, Randy and Freddy Simon, Freddy’s opened its first location in Wichita, Kansas, offering a unique combination of cookedto-order Steakburgers seasoned with Freddy’s Famous Steakburger & Fry Seasoning®, Vienna® Beef hot dogs, shoestring fries paired with Freddy’s Famous Fry Sauce® and frozen custard that is freshly churned throughout the day. The brand was acquired by private equity firm Thompson Street Capital Partners in March of 2021. Today, Freddy’s has grown to more than 400 locations that serve 32 states across the nation from California to Pennsylvania, Virginia, down the East Coast states to Florida. Freddy’s has twice been named No. 1 on Forbes Best Franchises to Buy, The 2021 Restaurant Business 10 Fastest Growing Chains in the U.S. List, Entrepreneur’s 2021 Franchise 500 top 100, Franchise Times magazine’s 2020 Fast & Serious top 40 and many other nationwide and local industry awards.

For more and/or the latest updates on Freddy’s, visit the Newsroom, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. For questions about the fast-casual restaurant, please contact Kim Huynh at 316-719-7869.

Greg Mills, Mayor of Brighton, Welcoming Remarks

Michael Martine, Brighton City Manager, Welcoming Remarks

Angela Barber, Brighton Branch Manager, Independent Financial, Chamber Ambassador, Natalie Cummings, Executive Director, Brighton Chamber of Commerce, Rachel Munoz, Owner JnR Insurance, Chamber Ambassador

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

20#, 30#, 40#,100# Bottle Refills

$2.25 per gallon will call or route

$5,100.00 $3,950.00 $2,950.00

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Lost Creek Guide

- Obituaries -

Marilyn Imhof Marilyn is survived by her husband, Kenneth Dwayne Imhof; daughter, Ginette Ishida (Jeff); sons, Darrin Imhof and Steven Imhof; sister, Diana Sigg (Stan); brother, Leon Zimbelman (Margie); sisterin-law, Jill Zimbelman (Leroy); three grandchildren, Brett Imhof, Brek Ishida (Mikayla) and Briley Cale and her nieces and nephews, Jenny Swarts (Jason), Brian Zimbelman (Sarah), Ryan Sigg (Hannah), Jessica Cobb (Ryan), Caitie Zimbelman and Erin Haag (Steven). She is also survived by a large extended family with many loved ones that she cherished.

Ina Mae Stigall Ina Mae Stigall, 84 of Brighton, Colorado, passed away peacefully, on January 22, 2022 at 10:40pm surrounded by her loved ones. Ina was born January 8, 1938 to Ed (Curly) and Bertha Younger in Park, Kansas. She had a wonderful childhood and adored her parents. She attended 12 years of school in Park. In 1955, she married her first husband and High School sweetheart Delbert Hensel in Hugo, Colorado. Ina and Delbert had four sons Ron, Rick, Russ and Randy. They would later divorce in 1962. In 1974 Ina married Gordon Stigall, later divorcing. She was one of the most strong-willed women you could ever meet. If you were lucky enough to look past her hard exterior you would find a wonderful, funny, loving, and deeply caring woman. Ina ultimately just wanted to love and be loved. In 1976, she became a Grandparent which would help her with her deepest wish of loving and being loved! Being a grandmother brought her so much joy. Ina was blessed with many more grandchildren throughout the years.

Ina was a creative and independent entrepreneur. In the 80’s she owned a safe company and a couple of antique stores. In the mid 90’s she purchased Country Liquor Store in Keenesburg, Colorado.

She independently ran the liquor store successfully for twenty years.

As Ina aged, she lived a simpler life. She loved crossword puzzles, researching her ancestry, and collecting cookie jars. Ina is survived by her 4 sons, 9 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren.

She will be missed greatly!

Private services will be held at a later date in Park, Kansas.

Another sunrise in Wiggins, how beautiful! Photo by Allois Spucie

February 2, 2022

Welcome Home to B Company of the 1-157th Inf Regiment Stationed out of Fort Lupton Readiness Center Pictures continued from page 1...

February 2, 2022

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Lost Creek Guide

SERVICE DIRECTORY Computer Support Repair, Service & Sales

Reliable, Local, Professional Roggen Telephone Company

303-849-5260

Thomas J Croghan DDS Family Dental Practice

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

New Patients Welcome

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

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

303-732-4319

HELP WANTED LEVEL 1-2 TECHNICAL SUPPORT AND NETWORK TECHNICIAN Roggen Telephone Cooperative is looking to expand its team.

We are a small ISP serving customers in the Roggen, Keenesburg and Hudson areas. Candidates with education/experience in ISP networking, static and dynamic routing, DHCP, DNS, PoE, IPv6 networking, NetXMS, Linux, Mikrotik, Ubiquity or Mimosa equipment would be preferred, but not required.

Basic requirements are a positive attitude towards customers and their issues, good interpersonal skills, patience and ability to help solve problems in creative ways. There are required monthly Safety meetings during business hours.

You will be able to become familiar with the wireless communication and fiber optics as well as all aspects of its deployment and maintenance.

This position is full time and salary starting at $20 - $22 per hour depending upon experience. Must have a valid Colorado driver’s license and be able to pass a drug test. Benefits include medical, dental, vision and Life insurance and 401k plan. Roggen Telephone is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug/Alcohol-Free workplace.

You can email your Resume to roggenmang@rtebb.net.

BROADBAND INSTALLER AND REPAIR TECHNICIAN Roggen Telephone Cooperative Company (RTCC) is accepting applications for a Broadband installer and repair technician. Ability to communicate with co-workers and function as a team player. Duties include installing and maintaining all types of Broadband services and related equipment.

Experience with mechanical and power hand tools. Minimum requirements include the ability to lift up to 50lbs, along with the ability to perform physically exerting tasks such as climbing ladders, running cable and mounting hardware on roofs of businesses, outbuildings and homes. There are mandatory monthly Safety meetings during business hours that we provide.

You will be able to become familiar with the wireless communication and fiber optics as well as all aspects of its deployment and maintenance.

This position is full time and salary starts at $18 - $20 per hour depending upon experience. Must have a valid Colorado driver’s license. RTCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug/Alcohol-Free workplace. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, Life insurance and a 401k plan.

You can email your Resume to roggenmang@rtebb.net.

TRUCK DRIVER-PART-TIME Dairy Farm, located in eastern Colorado, needs a dependable & hardworking driver & willing to jump in where needed.

Duties will consist of hauling commodities to the facility, hauling manure to fields, harvest driving & anything that may need hauling. It will be local driving and home every night.

Pay will be determined by experience, & retired drivers welcome to apply.

- Solid experience preferred - Need to be self-motivated, good communication skills with staff & ownership - Must have CDL Class A with a clean driving record - Able to pass a drug & alcohol screening - Most trucking is within a 200-mile radius, home at night.

35895 CR 18 Roggen, CO 80652 l 303-849-6222

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

McCarthy Trucking

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

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

Westview Farm

Teff Hay, Dorper Lambs, Working Stock Dogs Keenesburg, CO 970-568-3806 / Cell: 970-218-3891 Website: coloradoaussies.com

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

Keene Clinic

190 So. Main St., Keenesburg

303-732-4268

Loya’s Cleaning LLC Maria Loya

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

HELP WANTED At Grannie’s Diner Experienced Server Open Availability Apply at: 322 Denver Avenue

Fort Lupton, Colorado

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Lost Creek Guide

Welcome to the Hard Bean in Fort Lupton

by Kasey Schmutzer & Rebecca McClain The Hard Bean is a small coffee shop established in October of 2021 on the east side of Ft. Lupton. The shop is owned by Christina Lieu, a local business owner. As you step in you are hit with a friendliness that you would expect from a place you’ve known all your life. The locals working behind the counter always offer a friendly smile and a welcoming presence. You will find that the staff is very knowledgeable about all of the products that they offer and if not familiar with something they will make an effort to find the answer. All of them are trained to the highest standards and are consistent with the products they create. They pride themselves in being creative with the drinks they make and the flavor combinations they discover. There is room for everyone’s creativity through the rotating holiday drinks and festive menu boards.

The Hard Bean is a community forward place offering not only a meeting room, but local catering, and even small event nights. The small coffee shop brings a fresh taste to the community not only with coffee, but with delicious breakfast and lunch options, making it many locals’ favorite stop on their way to work. The convenient drive through offers a quick way to get your daily pick me up. Many also enjoy the small selection of ice cream they offer. Swing by in the morning and try one of the unique roaster coffees such as the house roast Jazzy Java or swing by at lunch and try one of the paninis. The food selection adds variety to the traditional coffee house concept.

Whether you are an employee or a local, the Hard Bean has something for everyone.

Jay Hernandez, Stephanie Beltran, Christina Lieu, and Randy Rochford

Briggsdale Takes Two Against Wiggins

by Paul Dineen The Briggsdale girls and boys basketball teams visited the Wiggins Tigers on Tuesday, January 25. Both Briggsdale (1A) teams are dominating so far this year, entering their Wiggins games at 10-0 overall and 1-0 in the 1A North Central league.

The boys have won their ten games by an average score of 66-41. The girls by 59-25.

In their forty quarters of play, the boys have outscored their opponents in 31 of them.

In their forty, the girls have outscored them in 38.

The two 2A teams the boys have played they beat by an average score of 56-34.

The girls in their two: 58-21. Since each team had beaten the two 2A teams they had played, this was an opportunity for Briggsdale to continue to show what they can do against 2A teams.

For 2A Wiggins, it was an opportunity to provide some clarity to records that have been inconsistent of late. The Tigers girls lost their first game, then enjoyed a five game winning streak (three of those against teams from higher classes) But, following that they have lost two of the last three. They beat 3A Brush, but lost to 2A Sedgwick County and 1A McClave. Although, the latter two are highly ranked within their classes.

The Tiger boys have been somewhat the opposite of the Tiger girls. They won their first game, then had a four game losing streak, followed by winning three of four.

As previously described in this space, both 2A Wiggins teams have been playing teams from higher classes to better prepare for league games against their own class.

On this night, against Briggsdale, they were playing 1A teams, albeit very strong 1A teams. Which Wiggins team would do better?

February 2, 2022

Girl’s Game The answer to that question tentatively appeared to come early in the first game. The Briggsdale girls jumped out to a 12-2 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

They expanded that 10-point lead to 16 at the half, then to 22 after three and ending at 34 for a 57-23 final.

The Falcons excelled in all phases of the game. Senior Kylie Krse continued her outstanding play with 26 points, 13 rebounds and six steals, leading the Falcons in all three categories.

Raelyn Koenig of Wiggins moves She leads 1A in scoring the ball upcourt against Briggsdale on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at with 22.7 points per Wiggins. (Paul Dineen / Get The game.

Sophomore Picture Sports LLC) Jenna Krise and junior Peyton Nicklas chipped in eight points each. Jenna Krise also led with seven steals.

There are four Krise family athletes on the girls team: Courtney, Kylie, Kaycee and Jenna. There are also three Krises on the boys’ team: Braden, Falcon Kylie Krise moves on Tiger Kaitlyn Jenson on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at John and Noah. They are a mixture of siblings and Wiggins. (Paul Dineen / Get The Picture cousins. This one family aside, parent and team Sports LLC) photographer Heidi Krise attributes some of the teams’ success to many of the senior athletes having played sports together since an early age.

On the Wiggins side, Rachael White, Tyleigh Fehseke and Riley Hunt each scored four points. Complete stats for the Wiggins girls were unavailable by deadline.

Boy’s Game The boys game between Wiggins and Briggsdale was much closer. The Tigers trailed the Falcons by only one after the first period, 22-21. The Tigers led going into the halftime break, 38-37.

One could not help wondering if the team with the superior record would pull away in the second half as the challengers tired. The score remained close for the remainder of the contest, several times tied, sometimes with Wiggins leading.

Cole Kerr led Tiger scorers at home with Wiggins’ top rebounder, Mohamed Ibrahim, was 22 points against Briggsdsale. (Paul called for his third foul with 5:13 left in the third and Dineen / Get The Picture Sports LLC) folded out in the fourth. Briggsdale led by just one point with 32 seconds left in the fourth quarter. But, Wiggins needed to foul to regain possession of the ball. The Falcons drained enough on those to pull away for the 68-61 road win.

Tanner Fiscus led the Falcons’ attack with 22 points, The rest of their scoring was balanced, with three players scoring eight, two scoring seven, two scoring six and one scoring three. Further Briggsdale boys stats were unavailable by the deadline for this article.

Cole Kerr led Wiggins with 22 points, followed

by Tyler Perry with 15 and Mohamed Ibrahim with Tanner Fiscus (31) led Falcon scorers with 22 12. Kerr had eight rebounds. Omar Perez had four points against Wiggins. Tyler Perry defends.

Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at Wiggins. steals.

(Paul Dineen / Get The Picture Sports LLC) “Briggsdale is a good team, but we also beat ourselves with too many little mistakes: turnovers on offense, not boxing out on defense,” Wiggins boys head coach Corey Stumpf acknowledged. “They didn’t do anything extremely out of the ordinary and we made adjustments at the half, but we didn’t do the little details needed.”

Wiggins had 28 turnovers. Their average for the six previous games was 21. Briggsdale’s total for this Tanner Fiscus (31) of Briggsdale goes game was unavailable. Their average for the previous down after colliding with Cole Kerr ten games was 15. (floor, right). Mohamed Ibrahim (50) Where They Stand looks on at their contest on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at Wiggins. (Paul This season, the Briggsdale girls have averaged Dineen / Get The Picture Sports LLC) from 16 to 18 points in each of the first three quarters and 8.7 points in the fourth quarter. The reserves are getting more playing time in the fourth quarter. But, then, they’re still outscoring the opponents, 8.7 to 7.8. The five seniors combined contribute 31.5 points per game, led by Kylie Krise with 22.4. Kylie also leads the team in rebounds, assists and blocks. The groups of five juniors and three sophomores are each contributing twelve points per game, led by junior Peyton Nicklas (8.1 points) and sophomore Jenna Krise (12.4 points).

The Briggsdale girls’ overall 11-0 record includes a 60-46 victory over Flatirons Academy, the only team that the 14-1 Falcons squad lost to last year (in the state semifinal). They are currently in first place in the four-team North Central league, with a 1-0 league record. Excluding the three games between the deadline for this article and press time, they have one game remaining against 2A opponents and four against 1A. They are ranked first in 1A by the CHSAA RPI and first in the January 24 coaches poll, just ahead of Fleming.

The Briggsdale boys have the same 11-0 and 1-0 records. They are tied for first with Fleming and Peetz in the North Central league. Excluding the three games between the deadline for this article and press time, they have five games remaining with 1A opponents. They are fourth on the 64 team CHSAA RPI ranking list. The 1A coaches poll places them second, behind Granada.

The Wiggins girls are 6-4 overall and 0-1 for seventh in the nine-team Lower Platte league. They have four games remaining against 2A opponents and three against 1A. They are ranked twelfth in 2A by the CHSAA RPI. The Wiggins boys are 4-6 overall and 1-0 for a first place tie with Merino in the Lower Platte league. They also have four games remaining against 2A opponents and three against 1A. They are ranked twenty-first in 2A by the CHSAA RPI. Next home games for Wiggins girls & boys will begin at 4 pm on Friday, February 4 versus Caliche.