The Lost Creek Guide February 17, 2021

Volume 14 • Edition 04

February 17, 2021

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

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

February is American Heart Month OVERVIEW

Heart Disease: Know the Facts

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States.

It’s estimated that every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack.

A heart attack occurs when there is a sudden interruption of blood flow within a diseased artery, typically due to a blood clot that forms when the plaque ruptures.

Time is muscle. The early recognition of symptoms is vital to limit the damage done to the heart muscle. The less amount of injury the heart sustains, the better the outcome and prognosis.

HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS

The “typical” symptoms of a heart attack include: Chest pain that can be described as discomfort, heaviness, tightness, burning, squeezing.

Pain that radiates across the chest or upper abdomen, up the neck, jaw and shoulders and down the arm.

Other associated symptoms may include: Breathlessness Nausea, vomiting or belching (indigestion) Sweating Palpitations (skipped heart beats) Dizziness, lightheadedness Donald A. Rabor, MD Fainting Lead Physician, SCL Feeling tired Health Heart and Vascular Institute Women, the elderly and diabetics may also experience Brighton the above symptoms, however they’re more likely to have “atypical” symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, back pain, abdominal pain, jaw pain and shortness of breath without feeling chest pain.

Do not ignore any of these symptoms, especially if they intensify and last longer than five minutes, immediate medical treatment is necessary.

WHO IS AT RISK FOR HEART DISEASE?

The risk factors for developing heart disease include: High blood pressure High blood cholesterol Tobacco use (smoking and chewing) Diabetes Aging Family history of premature heart disease Sedentary lifestyle Obesity or overweight Emotional stress / poor stress management Unhealthy eating habits Excessive alcohol consumption History of high blood pressure, preeclampsia or diabetes during pregnancy COVID-19 infection

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT HEART ATTACKS AND HEART DISEASE?

Promoting good heart health starts by:

Knowing and recognizing the early signs and symptoms of a heart attack, both “typical” and “atypical.” Time is muscle.

Identifying and understanding the risk factors for heart disease.

Seeking medical attention if you develop symptoms suggestive of heart disease or possess significant risk factors.

Implementing lifestyle modifications focused on appropriate diet and nutrition, regular activity, weight management, smoking cessation, reduced alcohol intake and stress management.

Initiating medical therapy as guided by your care provider.

Embracing a positive and joyful attitude.

WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

The SCL Health Heart & Vascular Institute combines the strength of leading cardiovascular specialists with some of the area’s best heart hospitals, including Platte Valley Medical Center in Brighton, as well as regional centers of excellence such as Saint Joseph Hospital and National Jewish Health in Denver. Our team of experienced and highly-qualified cardiologists and vascular specialists provides you with the highest level of care, from heart attack prevention and surgical care, to specialized rehabilitation, all to keep your heart healthy and strong.

For more information visit SCLhealth.org/heart or call 303-659-7000 to make an appointment with a cardiologist.

Governor Polis Provides Update on COVID-19 Response & Vaccination Progress

DENVER- Today, Governor Jared Polis provided an update on Colorado’s response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the State’s efforts to vaccinate Coloradans.

“Colorado is making great strides in getting shots into arms and ensuring vaccines don’t sit on shelves. I am thrilled that Colorado will have access to even more vaccine doses over the next coming weeks,” said Governor Polis. “As we open up the vaccine to more and more people across Colorado, we must all do our part to keep our friends and loved ones safe by social distancing, avoiding large gatherings and wearing masks. This upcoming holiday weekend, we know some Coloradans will be venturing into Colorado’s backcountry and we continue to urge everyone who does so to take extreme caution, as this year’s snowpack has created conditions ripe for avalanches at any moment.”

Governor Polis also shared a warning about avalanche danger in Colorado’s backcountry.

Nationally, between the weeks of January 30 and February 7, there have been 15 confirmed fatalities from avalanches, the most avalanche-related fatalities in a seven-day period since 1910. Governor Polis urged those who wish to venture into the backcountry to do so by first checking avalanche conditions and then head out with the proper equipment and training.

For more information on backcountry winter safety, visit: colorado.com/WinterBackcountrySafetyFor Avalanche forecasts and warnings, visit: avalanche.state.co.us Governor Polis also discussed Colorado’s upcoming legislative session. The Governor’s stimulus proposal to the Colorado General Assembly includes investments in the state’s infrastructure and transportation system. Additionally, the Governor’s proposal also calls for funding to bring broadband access to thousands of Colorado households, and as well and funding for upskilling to help Coloradans who need to be retrained or reskilled to help fill the jobs of the future.

For more information on how to sign up to receive the vaccine, please visit www.cocovidvaccine.org or call 1-877-CO VAX CO (1-877-268-2926).

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE:

Page 2: Way of the World Page 3: Baseline by Linda Meyer Page 4: 61% of Americans Reluctant to Travel Page 5: Colorado to Distribute Second Phase of Federal Benefits Page 6-8: Gardening 101 from Burpee Seed Company Page 11: Jackson Lake Open for Camping Page 12: February is American Heart Month Page 13: Where to Get Covid Vaccine in Weld County

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– Way of the World –

Lost Creek Guide

by Bob Grand Donald Trump was acquitted, again. We are a nation of laws and should not be driven by personal vendettas. Our constitution applies to every American Citizen, including former Presidents. The people who supported Joe Biden should be asking themselves do they want Chuck Schumer, Nancy Pelosi, Adam Schiff, Jerry Nadler being the driving force behind President Joe Biden. California and New York are failed states whether they will admit it or not.

The California Governor is facing a very real recall and the Governor of New York is facing a multitude of issues on the false data reporting on the COVID 19 date on the deaths in New York nursing homes. The end does not justify the means. Almost 75 million Americans voted for President Trump, the largest vote for a sitting president ever. A man who faced four years of unparalleled and scathing attacks by the media, the tech giants, and the extreme left. History, I believe, will be much more favorable to President Trump over time. But not now. We have to get on with life., we owe it to ourselves, our families, and our country.

Everyone, seemingly, is talking about unity, how we have to work together to work on solving the issues that our country and citizens face. I hope everyone is really sincere about that. I have to share with you, be it the Democratic party at the national and state level, the Republican party at the national, state, or county level, or the mainstream media I am afraid their actions will not be following a path towards unity. They will not be able to walk the talk. Time will tell.

The pandemic looks like it is headed in the right direction. In Colorado, Governor Polis appears to be doing a reasonable job in an exceedingly difficult situation. Thank goodness the vaccine process was jumped started. Unfortunately, many people will not take the vaccine which is a shame. I, like many others, have lost a year of not seeing my mother because of the lock downs as well as losing a year with my grandkids, who live out od state. That time is lost, forever, and when you are older that is not easily replaceable.

We are changing our letter to the editor policy. In the past you could submit a letter and we would consider publishing but you had to agree to sign it. We have been approached by a bunch of people who would like to write to express themselves but fear attaching their name for fear of retribution, in one form or another. We have decided to go back in history to the days of the Federalist Papers, where Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and James Madison, published under a pseudonym, Publius. Letters to the editor will be vetted, but for those who do not want their names published we will not require it, using Publius as the author. This may encourage more people to share their thought and ideas You can expect prices for things to continue to rise. For those of you who food shop you are already seeing it big time. Over the next 30 to 60 days this will be aggravated by the short sell problem in oil markets. Hang on to your hats as this could be a very bumpy ride.

Another issue that is becoming a problem is the bottleneck at the California container ports in Long Beach and Los Angeles. Container ships are now having to wait for a birth to unload almost as long as the sailing time across the Pacific. The wait time has now grown longer than the time lost during the last labor negotiations. Principle cause is said to be COVID 19 cases among the longshoremen. This will result in delay in shipments from the far east, which will translate into availability and pricing issues for goods.

The biggest possible non fossil fuel energy source is beginning to look like, Tidal & Wave. Unfortunately, because the United States coastal features are not as conducive to this as other area of the world, it has not received much interest domestically. Preliminary reports indicate that it could be very promising. We will be watching this for developments.

COVID 19 has had a dramatic impact on all our lives. Life will be different. How it all shakes out remains to be seen and continues to evolve. One thing for sure is the impact of social media and how it affects us. We, the people, and our government, both at the state and federal level, will have to assess if we want to continue to have the overwhelming control by such a small group of entities over the flow of information. It is a threat to our personal liberty, no matter which party you are affiliated with.

President Biden continues to have his hands full. I just hope he employees folks who have, and use, some common sense in dealing with the many issues we face as a country.

The world is a complex place and trying to retrofit old ideas to meet the new situations is not the best solution. Let us hope there is enlightenment that produces results that benefit the greater good.

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

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

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February 17, 2021

LETTER TO THE EDITOR CHSAA Completely Off Their Rocker

I had the opportunity to partake in one of my favorite hometown activities this week: supporting local high school student athletes. Well, sort of. The few parents who were selected to actually attend the event thoughtfully videoed the events live for the rest of us to watch – thank you, parents.

I also tried to learn a little more about the reasoning for the current dictates placed on high school sports. Rules that allow only two spectators per participant, which means that a family must choose between a parent and a sibling being present to cheer on their student athlete. Very seldom now do grandparents attend, grandparents who used to be the most dedicated fans of our rural students.

What I learned is that CHSAA (Colorado High School Activities Association) is completely off their rocker, with seemingly no rhyme or reason for their decrees.

For example, basketball players must wear masks, which restricts their breathing in this strenuous sport – a clear health hazard, especially for our kids affected with asthma or other respiratory conditions. We know that is not a CDPHE rule, as even they allow both college and professional athletes to compete without these restrictions. We also know that surrounding states such as Nebraska are completely open and place no restrictions on their athletics – their students are unmasked and their stands are full. Again, we observe a stark difference in red and blue states’ pandemic policies: red states use common sense and compassion for their students’ mental and physical health, while here in Colorado Governor Polis and CHSAA force our kids to play “masketball” and ignore the pleas of our high school students for stability and normalcy.

How about wrestling? CHSAA banned tournaments, but allow dual matches – which means that two schools can have a competition in the same gym, but not multiple schools.

Sounds fairly reasonable, right? Except CHSAA, the big school association, doesn’t understand that many of these small schools may only have five or six wrestlers who could participate in tournaments, already limiting the number of participants. But no team will travel to such a small school for a duel if they only have five wrestlers to compete with.

So several rural schools still come to one community and utilize multiple gyms to wrestle each other all on the same Saturday. But somehow all these wrestlers competing against each other all in one day is different than the forbidden tournament.

What are we doing to our youth and families, our schools and communities?

In rural Colorado, schools are the center of our community. Along the I-25 corridor, one might go to a comedy club or dance hall in the evening. Out in God’s country, the community goes to sporting events. When rural schools travel to play urban schools, there always seem to be more spectators from the visiting rural school side of the gym than the home town crowd.

If I can sign a liability waiver and then climb on a bucking bull in a public rodeo arena, or better yet sign that release and go play at a trampoline park, why can’t we sign the same waiver and attend a sporting event to support our own kids?

Of course, CHSAA would never go for such a common-sense approach. CHSAA’s nonsensical decrees are hurting our small-town communities, but rural schools have options if they band together to stand up to this heavy-handed association. Perhaps it is time for us in rural Colorado to use our own God-given common rural senses to create our own association, a Rural Sports Association operated and run by rural schools to make decisions that are best for our schools, students, and communities. Let CHSAA run their bigschool policies, and we will operate an association that works for rural Colorado’s smaller schools. It certainly can’t be that hard if bureaucrats within CHSAA can manage.

Why do schools belong to CHSAA? Surely it isn’t just because they crown the state champion in sports. We don’t need CHSAA to dictate what our communities and our students need – we can do everything they do ourselves, and the vast majority of rural schools could do it better.

Thank you, Jerry Sonnenberg, Colorado Senate District 1

February 17, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Letter to the Editor: I enjoy reading your newspaper, especially the coverage of local activities and politics.

I read with interest the recent Letter to the Editor, “Why should you question the experts?”, and as a former scientist and now science writer, I’d like to respond. I think this letter highlights a conflict going on in America right now (one of many) between “common sense” and “expertise.” In my mind, this is very unfortunate because, now more than ever, our country desperately needs both viewpoints.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges. In my job as a science writer, I’ve read and written about many scientific studies on COVID-19, as well as interviewed scientists who are experts in their fields. I know that COVID-19 is a real threat, and I have a lot of respect for the dedicated scientists and doctors who are working tirelessly to bring this pandemic to an end. However, almost from the beginning, misinformation has run rampant on social media sites, YouTube, and biased websites, including ideas that COVID-19 was a hoax or a government conspiracy, that the virus was engineered in a Chinese lab, that the vaccine was going to inject us with microchips, etc., etc. This was frustrating to me and many scientists, as the public seemed much more eager to believe outlandish conspiracy theories than scientifically established facts. My own right-leaning friends and family members for the first time questioned my expertise on scientific matters because I didn’t go along with “the party line.” It really caused me to think, why is that? Why has a person’s views about a virus become such a polarizing part of their political identity, and where does this mistrust of “experts” come from?

I’ve heard people with no scientific background beyond high school biology claim to know more about infectious diseases, epidemiology, virology, and immunology than people who, like Dr. Fauci, have dedicated their entire lives to studying these topics. One example that I hear people say all the time is, “It doesn’t take a genius to realize that viruses are smaller than the holes in a cloth mask.” Yes, that’s true, but what they don’t realize is that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, usually doesn’t just float around in the air by itself. It’s floating around in aerosol droplets, which are tiny drops of liquid that are expelled when people cough, sneeze, talk, sing, and breathe. These drops, although small, are much larger than viruses, and studies have shown that a cloth mask made of three layers of a tightly woven fabric, such as cotton, can keep many of these droplets from passing through. Are masks 100% effective? No, but if everyone wears a mask, there will be fewer virus-carrying droplets floating around. This is just one example of people not knowing enough about virology to realize what they don’t know, so they assume they are smarter or have more “common sense” than the experts.

Common sense is a very valuable trait that helps people make wise decisions in their everyday lives. However, common sense didn’t sequence the genome of SARS-CoV-2 or tell us how it spreads, the effects it has on organs of the body, or how to treat it. Neither could common sense develop the vaccines that, at last, promise an end to the pandemic and a return to normalcy. Experts have done all of that. It has been quite often said that scientists lack common sense. In the case of COVID-19, I think the real issue is that scientists’ priorities are stopping the spread of the virus, preserving health, and saving lives.

For most everybody else, although they are concerned about the virus, they are equally or more worried about their jobs, the economy, their children’s education, and the toll on our mental health from being in a lockdown. All of these concerns are valid and deserve consideration. Most would agree that some of our public health restrictions could have used a dose of common sense, and I think that’s one reason why many people, weary of the pandemic and restrictions, have started to question scientific expertise and motivations.

Although I know many scientists who are wonderful communicators, not enough of them try to translate their research into a language that the general public can understand. Scientists spend most of their time with other scientists, where one very technical word (jargon) can replace ten simple words, and scientists in the same field can easily understand each other. However, to the general public, it’s like they’re speaking another language. Also, from my own experience, after thinking and writing about science all day, the last thing I want to do in my free time is educate or argue about COVID-19 with people who are already very set in their opinions because of their political views and unlikely to be open to scientific information. I’m not sure what the solution is, but I think scientists need to do a better job of explaining the why behind their work and to be more patient with people who don’t have their level of education or training, instead of just dismissing their concerns because their ideas aren’t scientifically logical.

Communication between scientists and the general public is key, especially during a pandemic. I’ve mentioned what scientists can do, but what about non-scientists? If there’s something that most scientists seem to agree on (like wearing masks, for example), but it doesn’t make sense to you, I would urge you to reach out to a biological scientist or doctor you know and ask them what they think about it. Be careful about Facebook memes, YouTube videos, or politically biased websites that want you to believe sensational claims that go against the medical “establishment,” but don’t include references to studies published in reputable scientific journals. Before you share something questionable with others, search the web to see if the person making the claims has generated controversy or criticism, and what the evidence is for the opposite point of view. If what you find generates red flags, don’t share it – that’s how misinformation explodes on the web, which in the case of COVID-19, could do real harm to vulnerable people. Also, remember that science, like the virus itself, is constantly evolving. We knew next to nothing about SARS-CoV-2 when it was first reported from China in late December 2019, and scientists have been learning as they go, with both breakthroughs and missteps along the way. Naturally, as more data come in, recommendations from the CDC and other health organizations will change. It doesn’t mean that the scientists were stupid or incompetent, just that we now have better, more complete information.

Respectfully submitted, Laura Cassiday, Ph.D. (biochemistry) Science Writer, Hudson, CO

- Baseline -

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By Linda Meyer Somehow the calendar turned to February – that was fast! I hope 2021 is off to a good start for you and your family.

Many of us are still trying to put life back together after all of the changes that 2020 brought us. In the last week or two, I have received several emails that talk about resiliency.

Ok, what does that mean? Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines resilient as “tending to recover from adjust easily to misfortune or change.” After 2020, we all need a dose of that! Sometimes it isn’t easy to bounce back from unexpected changes in our lives. We need time to process those changes, to think about them and establish a “new normal” way of doing things.

One of the emails I received is from Mental Health First Aid. To become more resilient in life, they suggest: Be open to changes and allow for flexibility Keep things in perspective Take care of yourself with activities you enjoy Prioritize your relationships Ask for help if you need it.

All very good advice. We certainly need to take care of ourselves, and be flexible about what life brings us. And, there is no shame in asking for help. Sometimes it’s good just to have someone listen to you, whether you’re looking for advice or just a sympathetic ear.

Another email I received was from the Illinois Farm Bureau, with an article by Cheri Burcham, a University of Illinois Extension family life educator. Ms. Burcham writes about resiliency as we age. That topic hits a little too close to home, as the arthritis in my knees is slowly getting worse and occasionally makes life a little too interesting. I recently tried to sit on the floor with our youngest grandchild, and getting down to the floor wasn’t nearly as easy as I wanted it to be!

Ms. Burcham writes about several things that make us more resilient, including having a sense of humor, self-confidence, optimism, and gratitude. She also pointed out that social connections help: being around other people, whether it is in person, or by telephone, or on a computer. Covid-19 has made it hard to be around other people. Hopefully as more and more people get vaccinated, we will be able to reconnect with our friends.

If you are interested in reading her article, go to www.farmweeknow.com , and search for “resiliency”. The article should be one of the top items from your search.

Both articles make several good points. We can get stuck in our ways, or we just don’t want to try anything new. I’m guilty of that, too. There are some things I don’t like to do, and at times I really have to force myself to do something new.

We need to be open to change, especially since we don’t know where it may take us.

Perhaps by trying something new, you might discover a new hobby that brings you a lot of joy, or you might make some new friends.

Maybe you would like to volunteer your time for a cause close to your heart, but have been afraid to do so. Reach out and contact an organization that does the work you are interested in. Many people have stopped volunteering due to covid-19, and the organization may be thrilled to have someone new to help out. You never know where it might lead!

That’s it for this month. Please take care of yourself, and always try to look on the bright side. Several weeks ago, we picked up Chinese food for dinner. Our son’s fortune said to not worry about the world ending, “it’s already tomorrow in Australia.” I thought it was one of the best fortune cookies I’ve seen. Tomorrow is always coming – and sometimes faster than we want it to! How we handle tomorrow is up to us.

Thanks for reading!

Linda ____ Linda Meyer is the Pastor of Community United Methodist Church in Keenesburg.

Connect with Linda: Pastorcumc18@gmail.com , Twitter @RevLindaMeyer Mental Health Resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 Crisis Text Line: Text CONNECT to 741741 Colorado Crisis Hotline: 1-844-493-TALK (1-844-493-8255) Trevor Project (LGBTQIA+ Youth): 866-488-7386 Mental Health of Colorado: https://www.mentalhealthcolorado.org/ Farm Aid Farmer Hotline: 1-800-FARM-AID (1-800-327-6243)

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Lost Creek Guide

February 17, 2021

2021 Weather and Water Outlook to Close CFVGA 7th Annual Conference

Survey: 61% of Coloradans Hesitant to Travel

Three weather and water experts will provide participants with the latest information and monitoring tools during the closing session of Colorado Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association’s (CFVGA) 7th Annual Conference Feb. 18, beginning at 3:05pm. Following the presentations will be a live webinar Q&A session.

Panelists will include: • Russ Schumacher, Colorado climatologist, will present data on the statewide drought that developed across Colorado in 2020 and will provide the latest weather outlook.

• Tracy Kosloff, deputy state engineer will provide the latest information about the state’s water supplies.

• Laurna Kaatz, Denver Water climate program director, will talk about a new tool called aerial snow observatory.

Moderating the panel and the Q&A session that follows will be CFVGA President Robert Sakata, Sakata Farms, Brighton.

“Consistent access to irrigation water is vital to the Colorado produce industry,” said Sakata, who also chairs the CFVGA Water Committee. “More demand for water, coupled with a severe drought last year make getting timely information crucial as we plan for the upcoming growing season.”

The CFVGA conference will include a robust virtual exhibitor hall and the ever-popular Grower-Buyer Networking Session. Attendees also can choose from 13 different breakout sessions with topics including farm labor, Covid era food system adaptations, consumer behavior changes during Covid, production research, online produce sales platforms and multiple food safety educational options. To learn more and register: https://coloradoproduce.org For more information, contact CFVGA at admin@coloradoproduce.org or 303.594.3827.

“An advantage to the virtual format is that registered conference participants can participate from their homes, and they can go back and watch content that was offered simultaneously, since they will have access to the conference website through the end of August,” ,” said Adrian Card, CFVGA Founding Board member and chair of the conference committee.

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

DENVER (Feb. 10, 2020) - Amid the continuing roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines, a clear majority of Coloradans remain uncomfortable traveling, per new survey data from AAA Travel. Their main concerns: • Fears of getting sick (60 percent) • Concerns about the number of COVID-19 cases (56 percent) • Concerns about new strains of COVID-19 (47 percent) Interestingly, despite the widespread economic damage dealt by COVID across the state, only 26 percent of Coloradans are less comfortable traveling now than when the pandemic began due to financial concerns.

Even as aspects of the pandemic begin to ease in the wake of vaccinations, staying home remains the right thing to do. By and large, Coloradans have gotten that message: Nearly two-thirds of Coloradans (65 percent) canceled or rescheduled their 2020 travel plans, and 80 percent of Coloradans did not make, plan to cancel, or hope to reschedule their plans for 2021.

For those who do plan to travel, the car is king: 84 percent say they are comfortable using their own vehicle for a road trip. That compares to 73 percent who are comfortable camping, 69 percent who are comfortable traveling in an RV, and 47 percent who are comfortable staying in a hotel or resort. Just 32 percent of Coloradans report being comfortable taking a commercial flight.

Treatment and Knowledge Fuel Optimism Still, as we’ve learned more about the virus and its spread, prospective travelers are growing more confident. Nearly one-fifth of Coloradans (19 percent) are more comfortable traveling now than when the pandemic began, up six percentage points from AAA’s October survey. Their growing confidence can be attributed to: • The implementation of mask use and cleaning policies (52 percent) • More knowledge about how the virus spreads (40 percent) • More confidence in medical treatment and outcomes (28 percent) • Quarantine fatigue/cabin fever (25 percent) Between now and March, 26 percent of Coloradans have taken or plan to take a vacation of 3 days or more, a number that is expected to grow as the year continues. 44 percent of Coloradans say that they will feel more comfortable traveling once they receive both COVID-19 vaccine doses, while 40 percent say they’ll be more comfortable when cases begin to decrease.

“Our survey drives home that the COVID-19 vaccine is the key to restoring confidence in travel,” said Skyler McKinley, director of public affairs for AAA Colorado. “To be clear, we are not out of the woods yet, Colorado. Wear a mask, social distance, abide by health and safety guidelines - but rest assured that if we all do that, widespread vaccinations will bring exciting opportunities to travel again.”

Additional survey highlights: • 95 percent of Coloradans will wear a mask in public while traveling.

• 40 percent are more likely to visit a destination with a mask mandate.

• 51 percent are driving less due to the pandemic • 33 percent are more likely to purchase travel insurance than before the pandemic.

“For more than a century, AAA has been helping travelers navigate an increasingly complex world,” McKinley said. “If you are beginning to make travel plans, we’re here to help: When you work with a trusted travel expert, you can make informed decisions in line with your own comfort level - and you’ll always have an advocate in your corner.”

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among residents living in Colorado from January 15 - 24, 2021. A total of 400 residents completed the survey. Survey results asked of all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points.

Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Colorado.

About AAA – The Auto Club Group AAA Colorado is a proud part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the second-largest AAA club in North America with more than 14 million members across 14 U.S. states, the province of Quebec and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 60 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Learn more.

Registration just $25 for members, $35 for non-members

The vaccine is the key to recovery, and the road trip reigns supreme

February 17, 2021

Colorado to Distribute Second Phase of Federal Benefits Extended by Continued Assistance Act in Coming Weeks

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Lost Creek Guide

By Derek Draplin | The Center Square (The Center Square) – Colorado will begin distributing the second phase of federal benefits that were extended under the Continued Assistance Act in the coming weeks, the state’s labor department said Sunday.

Under the legislation, which was signed in December, the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) claim programs were extended for 11 weeks.

Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) opted for a phased rollout because its systems required reprogramming to accommodate the changes. The agency has faced criticism for delays since CARES Act-funded benefits expired near the end of December.

Under Phase 1, which began on Jan. 28, 104,000 claimants received $166 million in benefits since the beginning of the month, according to CDLE. Phase 2 of the benefits rollout will begin the week of Feb. 22, the department said Monday.

“We know that many Coloradans are facing extreme economic hardships right now, and have been anxiously waiting for the ability to apply for these added benefits,” CDLE Executive Director Joe Barela said in a statement. “The phased-in rollout of the program has been frustrating for many, however, our priority has been to get benefits in the hands of the most eligible claimants we could feasibly reach at one time.”

Barela added that the “new, modernized cloud-based system will allow for much speedier implementation of future pandemic assistance legislation that we expect to come from the new administration.”

Phase 2 will apply to claimants who exhausted their PUA and PEUC claims, as well as allow for new claims to be filed, the department said.

“The Department will notify claimants in the coming weeks about next steps to reopen their claims,” CDLE said.

The Effort to Humiliate Trump and His Supporters

By: Bill O’ReillyJanuary 11, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

So, what is the impeachable offense?

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

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

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

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

More on tonight’s No Spin News starting at 6pm eastern time – the best analysis you’ll find anywhere.

A man carries a placard during a rally outside the State Capitol to urge Gov. Jared Polis to eliminate delays and glitches in payment from the state’s unemployment compensation system Monday, Feb. 8, 2021, in downtown Denver. More than two dozen people who are out of work gathered for the rally.

David Zalubowski / AP Photo

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

$15.50

$1.70 per gallon will call or route

$3,535.00 $2,183.00

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Lost Creek Guide

Gardening 101: New to Gardening

Reprinted from Burpee Seed Company Where do I Begin? Decisions, decisions!

Before you begin a garden, ask yourself these questions: 1.) How much time will I realistically be able to devote to my garden?

2.) How large an area do I have for a garden?

3.) What do I want to plant: Vegetables, Flowers, Trees or Shrubs?

4.) Do I have lots of sun or shade?

5.) What kind of soil do I have?

6.) Where do I live? This will help you determine what will grow for you and when to plant it.

7.) Will I grow from seed or plants? *Burpee Tip! “If you are new to gardening, start small, learn what works for you, and always try something new every year. “ How Much Time Will it Take?

How much time you spend in your garden depends on what you want to grow and how large an area you want to cultivate. Gardening is a season driven activity. The seasons requiring the most work are spring and fall, with summer generally a time of maintenance and harvest, and winter a time to dream and plan, and start your seeds indoors.

•Watering, fertilizing and general tidying the garden may only take an hour every week or two.

•Annuals will need to be planted every year, which may be done all at once in spring.

They are generally very easy to maintain, requiring only deadheading for flowers, and pruning or staking and harvesting for vegetables.

•Perennials do not need to be planted every year, but they may require more care during the season, such as staking, dividing and being prepared for winter in fall.

•Trees and shrubs generally require little care after they are established. They may require watering, fertilizing and pruning. Some fruit crops, such as grapes or raspberries, may require annual pruning on a larger scale.

Start small, see how much time it takes for you to maintain the garden to your standards, and grow from there!

What Type of Garden Do You Want?

•A vegetable garden requires full sun and plenty of water. You can often grow three seasons of crops, changing cool season spring crops for warm season summer ones then back to cool in fall. You may need to fence in the garden if you have animals.

•A flower garden can be grown in sun or shade, depending on the plants you choose.

This type of garden will make use of your creative design skills. Consider the color, shape and texture of the flowers and foliage, and the height of the plants. Create pleasing combinations, and plant tall plants behind shorter ones (or tall ones in the middle of an island bed with shorter ones around the edges). Don’t be afraid to put flowers in your vegetable garden.

•Trees are a long term investment and you should always plan for their mature sizes when choosing a location. They add structure to the garden and can define its boundaries. They work well in combination with flowering plants and shrubs, as long as they have plenty of room for their roots to grow. •Shrubs are wonderfully versatile long-lived woody plants that can form the backbone of a flower garden. They generally do not bloom for long so their foliage must be considered when you choose a location for them as you will see the foliage for much of the season.

•No space, no worries! Container gardening allows you to grow veggies, fruit and flowers right on your porch, patio or deck. For more about container gardening click here.

Choose a site for Your Garden Decide where you will put your garden. Look at your property and consider the following: •Are there tree roots to deal with? Avoid planting close to tree roots because these will compete with your garden for water and nutrients, and the tree roots can be damaged when you work the soil for your garden. Do not add soil on top of tree roots, this can smother the roots and kill the tree. If you have trees, try to plant outside the area shaded by the tree.

•What is the access to the garden? Choose a site that is not so far away that you will avoid going to it. If possible choose a site visible from the house. This will allow you to see anything that may require your attention as soon as possible, such as wilting plants. It will also allow you to enjoy the garden from inside your home or porch or deck.

•Is it near a water source? It is important to be able to water your garden when it needs it. Make sure your garden hose can reach the area or you can easily bring watering cans from a water source to the garden.

•Think of the four seasons before choosing a prominent location: what will it look like in winter?

•Where will you see the garden? What do you see from prominent windows in your

kinnearinsurance@outlook.com

February 17, 2021

home?

•Be sure to choose a location that has the right conditions needed for the type of plants you want to grow.

Plan your garden in advance: it will pay off!

Measure your area, draw a map to scale, and start to dream! Our Gardening Basics Tab includes general information to get you started, and explains basic garden terminology. More specific product information on each type of plant is available in our Product Details, Growing Guide and Garden Solutions Tabs.

The Power of Knowledge Burpee feels that an educated gardener is a successful gardener, and we will provide you with all the basic tools you need to grow each plant product we sell. Scroll through the sections below, and click on the highlighted links for more information on specific topics to learn more.

What do Plants Need? Plant Basic Requirements Like all living things, plants have essential needs that must be met in order for them to grow. The basic needs all plants share are: •Soil •Water •Nutrients •Sun •The proper growing temperatures •Time. Everything needs time to grow.

Each type of plant has its own specific needs within these categories. For example: •Some plants can tolerate more shade and will burn in the sun, while others require full sun and will be weak in shade.

•Some prefer very wet soils and will wilt if the soil is too dry, while others need a well drained soil and will rot if the soil is too wet •Every plant has a preferred soil pH range and will not grow well if the pH is too high or too low What You Can and Cannot Control in the Garden “We can control many of the basic needs of plants in our gardens, but it is important to always remember, we cannot control everything. Environmental factors to consider are: •Weather (storms, drought, excessive heat or cold will occur and these factors are beyond our control) •Insects (both good and bad) are a natural part of the garden •Birds, rabbits, deer, groundhogs, squirrels and other animals in the garden can pose challenges •You cannot control the speed at which your plants will mature. All plants need time to grow. We offer help in the Garden Solutions Tab for how to deal with many of these challenges.

What Hardiness Zone Am I and Why Do I Need to Know This?

The Role of Temperature: Plants can only grow within specific temperature ranges, however we all garden in different climates throughout the country.

•Some plants, such as annuals or house plants, cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and will die if they are exposed to freezing temperatures.

•Some plants, such as hardy perennials and many types of fruit, have adapted to cold temperatures and may require a dormant period of freezing temperatures. (See also Chill Hours for fruit.) These plants will not thrive in tropical climates.

•Temperatures will also affect the growth rate of plants. Plants tend to grow faster in warmer temperatures, but when temperatures are too warm they can stop growing until temperatures become cooler.

How Can I Find Out My Hardiness Zone?

•All hardy perennial plants (plants that can survive winter) grow within a range of hardiness zones.

•These zones are identified by the USDA and refer to average minimum temperatures in an area. The lower 48 state zones range from 3-10, with 3 as the coldest and 10 as the warmest, and each is ten degrees warmer than the next zone. Click here to enter your zip code on our website to find out your hardiness zone.

•Hardiness zones are NOT provided for annual vegetable or flowers because these plants are not hardy, and do not survive winter.

•When shopping for perennial plants, always make sure your plant is recommended for your hardiness zone.

Choosing Seeds or Plants Picking a Plant to Grow: Some products are available as seed, some are available as plants, and some are available as both. Seed is the youngest and cheapest form of plant available. Many annual flowers and vegetables are easy to grow from seed because the seed grows quickly and is easy to handle. Some varieties take a long time to grow from seed or are challenging to grow from seed, and many gardeners prefer to grow these products from plants. Many perennial and fruit plants are not produced from seed, and therefore only available in plant form. The forms in which we offer our products are included on the Plant Details Tab. If you choose to grow from seed, we offer recommendations for how and when to sow under the Growing Guide Tab for each product.

Starting From Seed •Some seed may benefit from a special treatment before you sow it in order to aid germination. This may either be chilling the seed for a week or two in the refrigerator, soaking it in water overnight, or nicking the seed coat with a nail file. Recommendations will be provided for seed that benefits from such treatments.

•Sowing times are recommended for each seed based on average first and last frost dates. You can find out when these dates occur on average on our Growing Calendar.

•Some seed grows best when sown indoors early in order to give it enough time to grow and mature during the gardening season. Tomatoes, peppers and eggplants, petunias, begonias and impatiens are examples of seed that should be started indoors.

•Some seed grows best when sown directly in the garden. Examples include carrots, radishes, cucumbers, beans, peas and sunflowers.

•Specific sowing instructions are provided for each seed product we offer on the seed packet, as well as under the Product Details and Growing Guide Tabs for the product. In addition, we have a number of articles and videos on seed starting on our website. For complete directions on how to sow seeds indoors click here. For directions on how to direct sow click here.

Is it an “Annual” or “Perennial”, and Why Do I Need to Know This? Basic Terminology: Plants are defined by their life cycle: annual, biennial and perennial, and whether they are hardy or tender.

Cont. on Page 7, See Gardening 101

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Lost Creek Guide

Gardening 101: New to Gardening

Cont. from Page 6 Hardy refers to plants that can tolerate freezing conditions. Tender indicates that a plant cannot tolerate freezing temperatures. Some tender plants may be perennial plants in tropical climates, but gardeners grow them as annuals in the north, or bring them inside as houseplants for the winter.

Annual plants grow, flower, make fruit and set seed in one year. Annual flowers usually have a long flowering period all season. Most vegetables are annual plants.

Biennial plants grow, bloom and set seed in two years. The first year they produce structural growth: roots, stems and leaves. The second year they produce flowers, seed and then they die. This is a small group of plants.

Perennial plants live more than two years. The first year from seed they produce structural growth, the second year they flower, and they may live for many years after that. We sell perennial plants that are already one year old so they are mature enough to bloom the year you plant them. If you grow perennials from seed they generally take one year to bloom. Herbaceous plants have all soft tissue above ground. Herbaceous perennial plants die to the ground when frost kills the leaves and stems in fall, but the roots survive the winter. The plants reemerge in spring from the hardy roots. All annuals are herbaceous.

Woody perennial plants do not die to the ground in winter, they may lose their leaves in fall, or they may be evergreen. They maintain a woody stem and branch structure all year and new growth comes from this structure every year. All woody plants are perennial.

In general perennial plants bloom for a short four to six weeks a year, while many annuals bloom all summer long. Many perennials require a period of dormancy in winter and do not thrive in frost free locations. Always refer to the hardiness zones on our Product Details Tab to make sure they are suitable for your zone.

Soil Requirements: The Role of Soil in Your Garden Soil is the starting point of every garden. The soil is where a plant’s roots live. The roots anchor the plant, and take up the water and nutrients from the soil that the plant needs to survive. The roots must have room to grow, so soil must be somewhat loose and workable or the roots cannot become established. Most garden plants require a rich soil, high in organic matter such as compost, that drains well yet also retains moisture. You can purchase compost locally at a garden retailer or nursery, or you can make your own compost. Click here for our composting products. Soil preferences are provided for each plant product we sell in our Plant Details Tab. What Type of Soil Do You Have?

Soil is defined as either sand, loam or clay, depending on the size of the soil particle.

How can you tell what kind of soil you have? Pick up a handful of moist soil and rub it between the palms of your hand. If it is clay it will be a sticky ball, if it is loam it crumbles easily but does not run through your fingers, and if it runs through your fingers quickly, it is sand.

•The smallest particle is clay soil. In general water does not drain well in clay soils, but these soils retain nutrients. Roots may have difficulty penetrating clay soils. Clay is not recommended for most vegetable crops, especially root crops such as carrots or onions.

•The largest particles are in sandy soils. Sandy soils drain more quickly but also lose nutrients quickly. Sandy soil is not recommended for ferns, cannas, Elephant’s Ear or astilbe, which all prefer a wet location.

•Loam is a happy medium, with a balance of small, medium sized and larger particles.

Loam is the best type of soil for most garden plants.

How to Improve Your Soil Every year your garden can benefit from the addition of well composted (decomposed) organic matter available from your compost pile or a local garden retailer or nursery.

Compost should look like soil, and not have components that have not fully broken down yet such as egg shells. Compost will improve the ability of clay soils, which drain poorly, to drain well, and will improve the ability of sandy soils, which drain quickly, to hold water.

Because compost is made up of decomposed plant material, it also releases nutrients into the soil as the decomposing plant parts break down, which decreases the need for you to add extra nutrients as fertilizer. Other ways to improve your soil include adding lime to raise the pH or garden sulphur to lower the pH, and adding nutrients in the form of fertilizer.

Soil pH Basics: The pH of your soil will affect the ability of your plants to take in nutrients. Too high or too low a soil pH will have a direct bearing on whether your plants will grow successfully.

•Soil pH is the measure on a scale of 1-14 of the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. 7 is neutral and lower numbers are acidic while higher numbers are alkaline.

•Most garden plants grow well in a slightly acidic soil with a range of 5.5 to 6.8. There are exceptions, such as blueberries, which require a more acidic soil of 4.2-5.2.

•The preferred soil pH is provided for each Burpee plant product under the Plant Details Tab The Benefits of a Soil Test Before adding products and nutrients to your soil it is a good idea to have your soil tested.

•You can test it yourself with a soil testing kit.

•Or you can send a sample to your local Cooperative Extension Service to have it tested.

Click here for a link to find your local Cooperative Extension Service branch.

Before you have your soil tested you need to know what you are planning to grow so the test results will tell you what specific nutrients you need to add for these plants.

Water Requirements, Why Do Plants Need Water?

All plants need water in order to live.

•Plant roots take in water from the soil and it travels through the stem to the leaves.

•The green parts of the plant use sunlight to photosynthesize and make food for themselves. They need water to transport nutrients in order to do this.

•The water in plant cells keep them “turgid”, full of liquid, and when plants wilt, their cells collapse as they lose water.

•If plants get too much water because the soil drains poorly, they will also wilt. This is because they also need air in the soil and cannot make use of the water if the soil is completely saturated with water.

•Some plants are more tolerant of poorly drained soils, such as water lilies, and some are more tolerant of dry conditions, such as succulent plants. Special preferences will be indicated under the Plant Details Tab. How Much Water Do My Plants Need?

Most garden plants in the ground need about 1-2 inches of water every week. Use a rain gauge to help you determine how much water you may need to add when rains do not provide enough. You can purchase a rain gauge at a local garden center or hardware store.

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It will measure the amount of rain you receive so you can see if you need to add water for your plants. Plants in containers need more water than plants in the ground, and the smaller the container, or the bigger the plant, the more they will need. Watch these plants for signs of wilt and you will get a sense of how often they need to be watered.

How and When Should I Water My Garden?

Plants take water up through their roots, and the roots are the part of the plant that needs water the most. When you water your plants, try to avoid getting water on the foliage, as this is one way that diseases are spread among plants.

•Water early in the morning or in the evening, as plants can take water up more efficiently when it is cooler than at the height of the day. Plants lose water through their leaves in hot weather, so they must be watered more often in hotter weather.

•Water deeply, such that the water penetrates at least an inch or two below the soil surface. If only the very top of the soil is watered the roots will stay near the soil surface and plants will not develop strong roots. You can test this by digging your finger into the soil about an inch or two to see if it is dry.

•Plants in containers dry out more quickly than plants in the ground and may need to be watered more than once a day during the summer. Water containers until the water comes through the drainage holes. For very large containers you might want to use a moisture meter to determine if you need more water. A drip watering system on a timer can be a great way to ensure that your plants get the water they need.

The Benefits of Mulch to Control Water One way you can have some control over how water reaches the roots of your plants is by using a mulch in your garden.

•Mulch is a covering that is applied on top of the soil that can help keep the soil evenly moist. •Mulch can also help to prevent weed seeds from germinating, which can compete with your plants for water and nutrients in the soil.

•Alternating periods of heavy rain and drought can stress plants and delay growth.

Mulches can help modify the effects of water stress as they prevent the soil from drying out in the hot sun, and they also protect the roots from too much water all at once as they slow the absorption rate of water in the soil.

•Mulches can range from plastic to newspaper to organic mulches such as shredded leaves. Click here for our mulch products.

•Organic mulches have the advantage that they enrich the soil as they break down.

Plant Nutrient Requirements: What Are the Key Nutrients Plants Need?

Plants take nutrients from the soil to make food for themselves in the process of photosynthesis.

•“Macro nutrients” are nutrients plants need in larger amounts. •“Secondary nutrients” are needed in less amounts.

•“Micro nutrients” are needed in small amounts, and may even be toxic if present in larger amounts.

The macro nutrients plants require are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Nitrogen is needed for green growth. Too much N may cause excessive green growth at the expense of flowers and fruit. Phosphorus aids in strong root formation. Potassium aids in fruit formation and disease resistance.

•Secondary nutrients include calcium, magnesium and sulphur. Micronutrients include iron, boron, chlorine, zinc, copper, molybdenum and manganese.

How Can I Supply the Proper Nutrients?

A “complete” fertilizer contains the three macro nutrients, N, P and K, and will have three numbers indicating the percentage in that order. A 10-10-10 fertilizer, for example, contains 10% of each of these nutrients.

•Calcium may be added as lime or epsom salts. Sulphur may be added as garden sulphur. These amendments will also affect soil pH, with lime and epsom salts raising the pH and sulphur lowering it.

•Micro nutrients may be included in some fertilizers but should be added with care when you know there is a need. A soil test will help you determine how much to add. A slow release fertilizer may be applied at the time of planting and as needed throughout the season.

We offer our fertilizer recommendations in the Growing Guide Tab for each of our products.

Sun Requirements: Why Do Plants Need Sun? •All plants need the sun in order to make food for themselves through the process of photosynthesis.

•The chlorophyll in plants is needed for this process. Chlorophyll is what makes plants green.

If plants do not get enough sun they will stretch to get as much sunlight as they can, they will also become weak and pale in color.

How Much Sun? All plants have evolved to require different amounts of sunlight depending on where they have grown in nature. Burpee provides a scale that tells you how much sun a plant needs: •Full sun: at least six hours per day.

•Part sun or part shade: two to four hours of sun per day.

•Shade: less than two hours of sun per day.

Sun requirements are provided for all Burpee plant products in the Plant Details Tab. When shopping for plants, always make sure the plant you choose will have the recommended amount of sun in the location where you plan to plant it.

Growing Flowers: Why Grow Flowers?

•Flowers add beauty to the garden, and they offer other priceless benefits as well.

•Flowers attract birds and important pollinating insects into your fruit or vegetable garden to increase your harvest.

•Flowers add fragrance, and a variety of colors, forms and textures to the garden. They give you great scope to develop your artistic design skills.

•Bring the outside indoors: almost all flowers may be enjoyed as cut flowers in your home.

How to Care for Flowers: Different flowers have different requirements.

•Some flowers may need to be supported, such as morning glory vines.

•Some tall flowers may need to be staked to keep them from falling over in the wind, such as asters.

•Deadheading is a gardening activity that applies to many kinds of flowers. Deadheading is the act of removing the faded flowers from the plant before they have a chance to set seed. This will keep them blooming longer in the garden. Deadheading also keeps the flower garden looking more tidy.

Cont. on Page 8, See Gardening 101

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Lost Creek Guide

Gardening 101: New to Gardening

Cont. from Page 7 Do not deadhead if you would like the flowers to drop their seed, or self sow, for next year, or if you would like to harvest the seed to save for next year.

•Cut annual flowers and herbaceous perennials to the ground in the fall to help prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in the plant tissue.

•Herbaceous perennials may require extra protection in winter. These should be mulched with branches, such as Christmas tree branches, after the ground freezes to prevent alternating freezing at night and thawing during the day, which can be damaging to plant roots, or even force them out of the ground.

•When herbaceous perennials are several years old they may benefit from division. Division is a way to make several plants out of what was originally one. Instructions how to do this is included under the Growing Guide Tab for each perennial product.

Growing Food: Growing Your Own Food is One of the Most Rewarding Benefits of Gardening!

•There is a wealth of varieties available for each vegetable and fruit you grow compared to what you normally find at the grocery store or farm stand.

•Growing your own food gives you control over how your food is grown and processed. The varieties you grow are selected for their flavor, not for their shelf life.

•Nothing tastes as good as produce ripened and harvested right from your own garden.

Growing your own food gives a whole new meaning to the word “fresh”!

•Gardening itself is a healthy activity, and you and your family will eat healthier when you grow your own food. •Growing your own food saves money. Even a small garden can literally save you thousands of dollars every year.

Fruit and Pollination: Fruit is the way a plant distributes its seed. In many cases, such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, cucumbers and apples, it is also the part of a plant that we eat. For a plant to produce fruit, it must first produce flowers, and the flowers must be pollinated. Pollination happens when the pollen, or male part of a flower, is transferred to the female part of the flower. Pollination may occur by the wind, as for sweet corn, or by insects such as bees or butterflies, as for tomatoes, peppers and eggplants. Some plants are self pollinating, and need only one plant to produce fruit, such as raspberries. Some plants require cross pollination and will produce fruit only with another compatible variety nearby, such as honeyberries. Some plants are female,

February 17, 2021

and require a male plant to provide the pollen, such as kiwi. Pollination requirements are included for all our products that produce fruit under the Plant Details Tab. Chill Hours Some fruiting plants require a certain number of “chill hours” in order to produce fruit. Chill hours refer to the number of cold hours under 45 degrees F that a fruit variety requires annually in order to produce fruit. Many hardy fruit plants will not produce fruit in areas without a cold period. Always check the zones recommended for your variety.

What and How to Harvest: Harvesting is collecting the plant part you wish to use at the time when it is ripe. Plant parts that we generally harvest are: •Roots, for example carrots, radishes and beets •Stems, for example celery •Leaf buds, for example asparagus •Leaf stalks, for example rhubarb •Leaves, for example lettuce •Flower buds, for example broccoli or cauliflower •Fruit, for example tomatoes and cucumbers •Seeds, for example corn or peas The Plant Detail Tab for each plant product contains harvesting information.

Gardening in Containers 101: Why Garden in Containers?

•Gardening in containers expands the range of what you can grow in your garden and where you can grow it.

•Container gardening allows gardeners with small properties to have a garden. •Container gardening can help you overcome poor soil conditions, and eliminate the need to rotate crops in the garden to prevent soil borne diseases.

•Gardening in containers allows you to garden on your porch, patio or deck or other hard surfaces, making them more attractive and useful. Hanging baskets and window boxes lift the garden into the air, allowing you to garden in otherwise unused spaces. You can even garden vertically on a wall by attaching containers to it.

•No matter how much space you have, there is always a place for containers in your landscape!

Special Care for Container Plants: •Containers are more confined spaces for plants, and therefore require more frequent feeding and watering than plants grown directly in the ground.

•Containers require more winter protection if you are growing hardy plants. We recommend adding one zone colder to your zone if you plan to grow perennials in containers. For example, if you live in zone 6, choose plants that can grow in zone 5 if you will be growing them in containers.

•You should only use a potting mix designed for growing in containers, not garden soil.

Change the soil every year if you are growing annuals to avoid disease problems.

What Should I Grow in Containers?

Many vegetables, flowers and shrubs may be grown in containers. Products that are especially suitable for containers have this included the product description and plant details.

•Annual flowers and vegetables may be grown in containers.

•Small shrubs may be grow in larger containers, such as dwarf varieties of hydrangea, weigela and blueberry.

•Smaller vines may be grown in containers, such as clematis or cardinal vine.

•Herbs are always great for containers!

Always make sure the container is large enough for the variety you choose. Larger plants in too small containers may not bloom or produce fruit well because they cannot get the water and nutrients they need. Check the Product Details Tab for container recommendations.

CSU Extension Program

The entire CSU Extension program is focused on continuously monitoring and developing ways to improve Colorado’s gardening and agricultural practices to make gardening and general ag more sustainable for the future. They also strive to help educate local home gardeners so we can all benefit from home gardening and in turn, shopping and eating locally. The CSU Extension includes, but is not limited to, the following benefits: • CSU Trial Garden o this garden is located in Fort Collins near campus. The public is encouraged to come and visit the garden that is filled with native perennials, which have either been left alone or have been modified and adapted in order to help make them more sustainable.

The entire garden is cared for by the school and it is used to determine how to better care for flowers in Colorado through all sorts of growing seasons. You can see the results for past trials on their website.

• They offer online courses to become a Master or Certified CSU Gardener, which means that you have taken and passed their list of courses. These courses are designed to educate the general gardener on things such as pests, growing conditions, vegetables and their uses, as well as looking at soil composition and how to keep up the best garden you can!

• They provide a huge number of printable handouts that either help educate people on the vegetables, the pests, the soil, etc. that can be found in their home gardens so they are better able to grow and maintain their own sources of food. They also have similar handouts for flowers, both native and the reasons against having non-native plants in your gardens.

• Their program has a “local county office” for every county in the state; they provide a list of contact information for each office so you can call or email to receive the most useful information and advice for each area.

• They have an option to contact an “expert” for answer to any question you may have.

• Their student base also seem to have constructed tests and monitoring systems for the local soil compositions, which you can find results for on their website. They also have results and updates for their data on the climate changes.

• They offer a huge database for determining what kind of plants to grow in your garden, as well as how to care for each of the plants you may choose.

• You can find a bunch of community-based opportunities to grow and donate some of your produce to local food banks, homeless shelters, etc. and they give you the information to be able to do so safely!

• The website also offers information about general gardening and farming, including how to care for your garden, how to care for chickens and more!

• They also monitor and recommend prices for your items at local farmer’s markets. These prices are based on growing conditions, yield for the year, etc. and they keep these prices updated weekly.

February 17, 2021

2-1-1 Colorado at United Way of Weld County is Always Available to Help

Lost Creek Guide

Robin is a new mom who found herself in the unfortunate situation of having a broken water heater just as winter was approaching. Without any other resources to offer, a resource navigator from 2-1-1 Colorado at United Way of Weld County (UWWC) informed Robin about Colorado’s LowIncome Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) to help her get the financial assistance she needed.

Thanks to 2-1-1, Robin applied and qualified for assistance and received the help she needed from LEAP to repair the water heater.

When Robin called 2-1-1 for help, she wasn’t just “patched through.” She connected to a real person, who from that first hello guided her to the help she needed. 2-1-1 specialists are trained to identify and address the root causes of your challenge – and to connect you with a wide range of resources that meet all your underlying needs, not just the one that prompted the call, text, or email.

What makes 2-1-1 valuable to residents in Weld County and northeastern Colorado?

Full-service live resource navigator help through calling, texting, of web chatting on weekdays or by going to www.211colorado.org 24 hours per day.

Proven ability to effectively uncover additional client needs over and above initial reason a contact is made, resulting in more holistic service.

Cost effective, time efficient approach for clients and practitioners to help locate human service/referral needs with one call and/or use of current technology.

Significant cost savings to communities through better resource coordination, avoiding service duplication and by dedicating staff to comprehensive call center and database operations.

We should support 2-1-1 because it continues to be a valuable service to people within our community who need to be connected with resources that are available, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. It creates the central place to be able to get people connected to the resources they need.

2-1-1 provides personal referrals for such needs as: food, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits enrollment by phone, children with special health care needs, child care options, older adult needs, medical and dental care, immigration, prescriptions, mental health, home repairs, clothing, housing, rent/utility aid, emergency shelter, volunteer/donation opportunities and more.

From October to December 2020, 2,896 contacts were made to 2-1-1 through phone, text, email or live chat. The top needs during that time were rent payment assistance (23 percent), utility assistance (18 percent), individual, family and community support (10 percent), education (9 percent), food/meals (8 percent) and clothing/personal/household needs (7 percent). UWWC oversees 2-1-1 in a region that includes Weld County, Kit Carson, Logan, Morgan, Phillips, Sedgwick, Washington and Yuma counties.

Every February 11, 2-1-1 Day is recognized throughout the country, but every day from January through December residents such as Robin in Weld County and northeastern Colorado access 2-1-1 for assistance. Ninety-four percent of the callers said they would recommend 2-1-1 to family and friends.

2-1-1 is not possible without the donations of individuals, businesses as well as the support of government and local foundations. Every contribution makes a difference, as does helping to increase the economic viability of individuals and families in Weld County through the Enterprise Zone Contribution Tax Credit (25 percent credit for donations), which can be directed toward programs like 2-1-1. Donations can be provided at www. unitedway-weld.org.

For those needing assistance, dial 2-1-1 or (800) 559-5590 toll free, text your zip code to 898-211 and search our database or live chat at www.unitedway-weld.org/211.

If you know of a resource that should be in the 2-1-1 database, contact me at (970) 3046192 or email me at margie@unitedway-weld.org. And if you know of someone like Robin who could use help in paying a portion of their home heating costs, call 1-866-432-8435 or go to www.unitedway-weld.org/LEAP. Margie Martinez is the regional outreach coordinator for 2-1-1 Colorado at United Way of Weld County.

About United Way of Weld County The mission of the United Way of Weld County (UWWC) is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. UWWC assists residents in the areas of Early Childhood Development, Youth Success, Household Stability, Older Adults/Healthy Aging and Access to Services. Through our community’s willingness to give, advocate and volunteer, UWWC is able to have a positive impact on tens of thousands of lives every year. Thanks to the generosity of the 36 UWWC Cornerstone Partners, they donate all or a portion of their corporate donation to help cover 100 percent of administrative and fundraising costs for the resources under UWWC’s management. For more information, visit the United Way of Weld County website at www.unitedway-weld.org.

New 4-H Members

Page 9

Article By Madison Richmann 4-H is a great opportunity for the youth to learn valuable life lessons including money skills, responsibility, and sportsmanship. Every year new members join. Although re-enrollment time is over, there is still time this year to get enrolled for new members! With projects from market livestock, to shooting sports, to cake decorating; there is something for everyone. New members need to enroll through 4H online by March 1 of 2021. Make sure you join a club quickly as your dues must be paid directly to your club leader. Members are $35.00 and cloverbuds are $25.00.

NEW MEMBERS ENROLLMENT Go to link https://v2.4honline.com Click link to “Don’t have an account Select “Colorado” Select “Colorado Youth 4-H development” Choose your county Enter your families information and create password Click “create account” Confirm and verify Once the profile is created, continue on to the next few pages for 4-H enrollment. (Make sure you complete each new member.)

For a list of possible projects and more instruction on how to enroll you can visit www.weld4h.org or email Michelle Langston at mlangston@co.weld.co.us.

Joining a club is a big and mandatory part of joining 4-H. For a list of clubs and contact information visit https://www.weld4h.org/about/clubs. Joining a club will insure members are around other members and can meet new friends. This will also give them an optional opportunity to serve as a club officer if they are voted in. Make sure you research your club and learn when and where meetings take place, the requirements, and talk to the leaders.

Magic Spurs 4-H club out of Keenesburg, Colorado is very happy to have many new members in their club for the 2021 year (some pictured.) Interested in the Magic Spurs 4-H club? Contact the leaders, Sam or Shellie at magicspurs4h@gmail.com.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL NEW MEMBERS THIS 2021 4H YEAR!

Page 10

Deadline Extended - Weld County Service Industry Relief Fund

Lost Creek Guide

The Weld County Service Industry Relief Fund has administered just over half of it’s allocated funds, providing $1.2 million in assistance to eligible public-facing businesses located in Weld County that have been categorized as “high-risk” and mandated to close or substantially reduce services in response to guidelines issued by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment effective 11/20/20. The grant application program has extended the deadline to apply through February 28, 2021 to allow additional businesses to take advantage of the funds which can help cover lost revenue and expenses.

Grant administration will give priority to service based businesses deemed “high-risk” including: • Restaurants, bars and other food and beverage service providers • Gyms and fitness centers • Live event venues and movie theaters • Entertainment including bowling centers, arcades, and recreation facilities • Other public facing business under special circumstances The Service Industry Fund grant initiative is intended to distribute approximately $2 million to eligible businesses in Weld County. Financial assistance will be provided on a need-based priority basis for all qualified applicants. Depending on the businesses financial need, assistance is available up to a maximum $10,000 for public transactional businesses with a defined closure or limitations due to capacity restrictions.

• Business must have 3+ employees • Show loss of revenue and/or COVID related expenses in the time period of 11/01/2020 -01/31/2021 • Have a physical location in Weld County

WELD CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS VARSITY WRESTLING

Weld Central High School Boys Varsity Wrestling beat Aurora Central High School 60-12 Wednesday, February 10, 2021 5:00 PM Weld Central High School

Aurora Central High School HOME AWAY 60 12 The boys varsity wrestling team came away with their largest dual victory of the season last night as they defeated Aurora Central by a score of 60-12. The Rebels won 5 of the 6 contested matches and improve their dual record to 5-4 on the season. The Rebels host Wray, Florence, and Valley this Saturday at home for their next contest.

Posted by Elliot Copeland elliotcopeland@re3j.com

Keene Craft Mercantile

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

February 17, 2021

An Informed Guide to the Pandemic, with the Latest Developments and Expert Advice about Prevention and Treatment.

By Jonathan Wolfe, The New York Times • The C.D.C. said that people who have been fully vaccinated do not have to quarantine if they have been exposed to an infected individual.

• Los Angeles temporarily shut five vaccination sites over shortages.

• Millions of fake N95 masks were bought by hospitals, medical institutions and government agencies in at least five states The future of the vaccine rollout Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Biden’s chief medical adviser for Covid-19, said today that most members of the general public could become eligible to get the coronavirus vaccine as early as April.

“I would imagine by the time we get to April, that will be what I would call, for better wording, ‘open season,’” he said.

“Namely, virtually everybody and anybody in any category could start to get vaccinated.”

Still, Dr. Fauci said, it will take several months to administer the vaccines. He said that he hoped an overwhelming majority of people in the United States could be vaccinated by mid- to late summer.

For insight into the next few months of the vaccine rollout, we reached out to Katie Thomas, a Times reporter who covers health care and the drug industry.

Will we have enough vaccine doses to meet Dr. Fauci’s timeline?

Let’s just do the math. We have about 260 million adults in the U.S. The country already has a deal with Moderna and Pfizer for enough doses for 200 million people by halfway through this year.

And then there’s Johnson & Johnson. We have the results from their clinical trial and we know it works — especially against what we all care about the most, which is severe disease, hospitalization and death. The F.D.A. is considering its application as we speak, and we could expect the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to be authorized as early as the end of this month.

If that happens, we would have another 100 million doses — enough for 100 million people because it’s a single-dose vaccine. So with Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson we have enough to vaccinate the entire adult population by the middle of the year — with some left over.

What other vaccines are we looking for in the near term?

There are two other vaccines that are in the mix. One is AstraZeneca, which has been authorized in more than 50 countries, including Britain. But there are some questions about this vaccine, so people are waiting for the results of the big U.S. trial. If the results are positive, it could be authorized maybe as early as April.

The last vaccine is Novavax, and the company has been enrolling people pretty quickly to its clinical trial in the U.S. and Mexico. If its trial is successful, that vaccine could be available by April.

When will children be vaccinated?

The companies are testing their vaccines in children now, and it’s conceivable that kids could get vaccinated later in the year. Dr. Fauci told ProPublica that vaccines for children as young as first graders could be available as early as September.

Aside from getting enough vaccines out to the states, what obstacles do we face?

Sometimes when we think about vaccinating the entire population, we assume that everyone will want one of these vaccines, and we know that’s not the case, even just looking at the health care groups.

There have been a few people — notably Scott Gottlieb, the former F.D.A. commissioner — who basically say what we’re seeing right now is huge demand and not enough supply.

But after this first group of early adopters, so to speak, gets vaccinated, we could end up in a situation where we start seeing more supply than demand. Dr. Gottlieb’s estimate was by the end of March.

So a big question is: At what point do we have to start persuading others to take the vaccine? And his argument is that might actually come sooner than we think.

Some places, like the U.K., have delayed the second dose of their two-dose vaccines in order to get more people a first dose more quickly. What’s the latest thinking in the U.S. on that approach?

I don’t think there is anyone in the United States who is in any position of authority who is in favor of significantly delaying the second dose past six weeks.

Dr. Fauci recently said that the science shows that two doses are effective. In order to delay the second dose, we really need to test that out in a clinical trial. If we do that, it’s going to take time. And his argument is that, by the time we get an answer to that, we will probably have more supply, and so it’s kind of not worth it.

He has also said that delaying the second dose could put selective pressure on the virus that could give rise to more mutations.

What do the variants tell us about what the future will look like?

All of the vaccines that we know about so far have reduced efficacy against the variant from South Africa. Even so, most seem to still offer robust protection against severe disease and death from the variant. And so most of the vaccine makers are talking about developing essentially a booster shot that would address these variants.

The vaccine makers are already starting to think that with the current virus, down the road, we could be headed for a situation where you get an annual Covid-19 shot once a year.

And there are even some companies that are starting to talk about combining the flu shot and the Covid-19 shot. But, I should say, we still don’t know.

February 17, 2021

Jackson Lake Open for Camping

Lost Creek Guide

We are OPEN for camping! Water spigots are available at the dumpstation to fill with water before going to your site. Please go to our conditions page for more information.

Campgrounds are popular during weekends and may be booked. Please make reservations at cpwshop.com or 1-800244-5613.

Please observe social distance guidelines during your stay at campgrounds.

Please use cpwshop.com or the park’s self-service stations to purchase passes for day use.

Please bring your own hand sanitizer. There may be no running water available.

For park-specific questions, please call the park directly and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Please note any additional closures or cancellations remain subject to change at the park’s discretion.

For updates regarding CPWs response to COVID-19, including reservation refunds, hunting questions, or steps to recreate responsibly outdoors, please visit CPW’s COVID-19 page. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This park is an “Oasis in the Plains,” for swimming, boating, fishing and waterskiing.

But that›s not all...

Jackson Lake is ranked one of the «Top 15 Park Beaches» by Reserve America. Anglers, boaters, or naturalists realizing there’s too much fun for just one day enjoy the variety of water or land-based recreation ​ land-based facilities found here.

Birders and hunters flock here because of the parks location in the Central Flyway for migratory birds.

Quiet winter months provide hearty wildlife viewers some excellent opportunities to spot the many animals that live here.

No matter the season, Jackson Lake is, as novelist James Michener suggests, “an oasis of the plains.»

Gather Up The Group Whether its for day or more, a meeting or for recreation; Jackson Lake group facilities offer a range of options. Groups can picnic, camp or conference here.

Year-Round Camping Did you know Jackson Lake is open to camping throughout the year? Bring your dirt bikes and 4-wheelers since the OHV track is open too!

Page 11

Longest-Serving Woman In Congress Says She Feels Increasingly Alienated In Democratic Party

By Tyler Duurbin, Wednesday, February 3, 2021, authored by Tom Ozimek via, The Epoch Times The longest-serving woman in Congress, Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), told The Hill in a recent interview that she struggles with a growing sense of alienation within the Democratic party as she fights for the interests of her largely working-class Midwest constituents while the Democrat party is increasingly dominated by representatives from wealthy, often coastal districts.

“They just can’t understand,” Kaptur told the outlet, referring to the difficulty some of her Democrat colleagues have in relating to the concerns of blue-collar constituents like hers.

“They can’t understand a family that sticks together because that’s what they have.

Their loved ones are what they have, their little town, their home, as humble as it is—that’s what they have,” she added.

00:11 / 00:21 Kaptur told the outlet that she worries that the voices of congressional Democrats who represent wealthy districts are increasingly drowning out those who represent heartland districts.

“It’s been very hard for regions like mine, which have had great economic attrition, to get fair standing, in my opinion,” Kaptur said, adding that, as a Democrat who represents a working-class district, she feels like a minority within her party.

In the interview, Kaptur touched on congressional district data, which showed that 19 out 20 of the nation’s wealthiest districts are represented by Democrats.

“Several of my colleagues who are in the top ranks have said to me, ‘You know, we don’t understand your part of the country.’ And they’re very genuine,” Kaptur said.

“You can’t understand what you haven’t been a part of.”

The idea that Democrats are losing touch with their blue-collar roots and are increasingly turning into the party of the elites while Republicans are on track to becoming a multiethnic working-class coalition was an oft-repeated theme in the wake of the 2020 election.

In his first remarks following the November election, in which the GOP defied expectations and made gains in the House, Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), the House Minority Leader, declared, “This election cycle has made one thing clear: The Republican Party is now the party of the American worker.”

The 2020 election results, in general, reinforced the view that the Republican party is poised to become a multiethnic coalition of working-class voters. In the presidential race, for instance, former President Donald Trump won the largest share of non-white voters, a traditionally Democrat demographic, of any Republican since 1960.

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) commented on the fact that Trump won Zapata County, in Texas, by a margin of 52–47 percent in 2020, while he lost that same county to Hilary Clinton in 2016 by a margin of 65–32 percent. “#Florida & the Rio Grande Valley showed the future of the GOP: A party built on a multi-ethnic multi-racial coalition of working AMERICANS,” Rubio wrote in a tweet.

Reprinted with permission from Epoch Times (www.epochtimes.com)

Bennett - Flagler - Wiggins - Longmont and new Keenesburg branch approved

Page 12

February is American Heart Month

Lost Creek Guide

February 17, 2021

Weld County, CO — February is American Heart Month, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health. For this year’s campaign, the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention is shining a light on hypertension (HTN), which is defined as a blood pressure at or above 130/80 mm Hg. Having HTN puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2019, nearly half a million deaths in the United States included HTN as a primary or contributing cause. In Weld County, 32% of adult residents reported they had been told by a health care provider that they had high blood pressure. Only 1 in 4 adults (24%) with HTN have their condition under control. High blood pressure costs the United States about $130 billion each year.

Lifestyle plays an important role in treating your high blood pressure. If you successfully control your blood pressure with a healthy lifestyle, you may avoid, delay, or reduce the need for medication. Here are a few additional lifestyle changes you can make to lower your blood pressure and keep it down: 1.Lose extra pounds and watch your waistline: Weight loss is one of the most effective lifestyle changesfor controlling blood pressure. Losing even a small amount of weight if you’re overweight or obese can helpreduce your blood pressure.

2.Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity — 150 minutes a week, or about 30 minutes most days of theweek — can lower your blood pressure.

3.Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy productscan lower your blood pressure.

4.Reduce sodium in your diet: A low sodium intake — 1,500 mg a day or less — is ideal for most adults.

5.Limit the amount of alcohol you drink: No more than 1 drink per day for women and 2 per day for men.

6.Quit smoking: Each cigarette you smoke increases your blood pressure for many minutes after you finish.

7.Reduce stress: Chronic stress may contribute to high blood pressure.

Find more healthful resources at: www.weldhealth.org; www.heart.org or www. nhlbi.nih.gov.

Park Hill Dental 100 S. Main Keenesburg www.ParkHillDental.com

Take ACTION

Matt M., Journeyman Lineman

For Your Tooth and Gum Health.

Dr. Thomas Croghan has been serving Southeast Weld county with pride since 2005. We are a full-service general dental office where your dental needs are addressed in a welcoming, professional setting.

www.unitedpower.com 303-637-1300

We look forward to meeting you and caring for your oral health!

YourSource_LostCreek_4.625x6.875.indd 1

1/8/2019 9:34:18 AM

February 17, 2021

Lost Creek Guide

Where to Get a COVID-19 Vaccine in Weld County

Vaccination information for individuals in the 70+ population: Please know the entities listed below are diligently working to bring the COVID-19 vaccination to residents in the 70+ population as quickly as possible. Limitations on vaccine supply, however, are causing delays in registration and administration of vaccinations.

We know any delay is frustrating, but we appreciate everyone’s patience as these agencies work together to make sure vaccines are distributed safely and efficiently. As vaccines are shipped to and distributed by the state, the entities below receive varying quantities at various times. Each entity has a process to schedule appointments for people who want the vaccine. Please know, there are approximately 30,000 residents in Weld County who meet the criteria to receive the vaccine at this time. Please also know that as vaccines become more readily available, the delivery systems for each agency will improve. We appreciate your understanding and your patience.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has a running list of vaccine recipients across the state. COVID-19 vaccination locations in Weld County include but may not be limited to: Banner Health Take the survey on the Banner Health website to determine if you are eligible to receive the vaccine. Schedule an appointment online as the Banner Health System is receiving a high number of requests for appointments.

Good Day Pharmacy - Greeley Good Day Pharmacy’s Greeley location — 2000 16th Street (in the vacant parking lot on the west side of the Greeley Medical Clinic) — is offering the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to people within the 1A and 1B phases of vaccination, as per state regulations. The testing schedule varies depending on vaccine supply; it is typically 1 to 2 days per week on average. Do not call the pharmacy to schedule an appointment. You must schedule an appointment online. At your scheduled appointment time, please come ready in a short sleeve or sleeveless shirt and sitting in a seat in the vehicle that allows the arm you wish to be vaccinated facing a door (even if that means sitting in the back seat). Bring your face covering or mask and wear it when interacting with Good Day Pharmacy staff. Vaccination is free.

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

King Soopers King Soopers Pharmacy is currently vaccinating patients for COVID-19 as vaccine is made available for health care workers in the 1B category, as well as those patients age 70 years or older. Please go to www.kingsoopers.com/covidvaccine for more information and to find out which locations currently have vaccine and are scheduling appointments.

Patients must have an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Safeway Select Safeway pharmacies across the county are offering COVID-19 vaccines to health care workers and residents 70 years of age or older. Schedule an appointment online or sign up to receive updates on vaccine distribution timing and scheduling. Avoid calling your local store or pharmacy, as Safeway pharmacy teams are focused on serving patients.

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

Page 13

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

SCL Health SCL Health is currently contacting patients age 70 and older who are currently receiving care at an SCL Health facility. Information is being emailed to these patients guiding them to use the MyChart online patient portal to make a vaccination appointment. These invitations are being sent in a phased fashion based on the state tiering system. An appointment is required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at an SCL Health facility. Walk-up vaccinations are not available. If you are 70 and older and would like more information about registering for COVID-19 vaccination at a SCL Health facility, go to to SCL Health’s website or call (303) 812-2051 for details.

Sunrise Community Health Sunrise is offering vaccines to Sunrise clients only who are age 70 and up via vaccine clinics. For more information about dates and locations, go to the Sunrise website. Appointments are required. To make an appointment at an upcoming clinic, call (970) 3462587 (for English or other languages) or (970) 346-2589 (for Spanish).

UCHealth Based on the state’s plan, UCHealth is focusing efforts on vaccinations for people 70 years old and older. You do not need to be a UCHealth patient in order to get vaccinated. UCHealth is using My Health Connection, their online patient portal, to communicate with patients age 70 and up. If you have a My Health Connection account, you are added to the vaccine list and will automatically receive updates (via email and in the app) regarding the vaccine. If you do not have a My Health Connection account or are new to UCHealth, create a My Health Connection account to be placed on the list to receive the COVID-19 vaccine when it is available for your phase, according to the state’s plan. An appointment is required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Go to the UCHealth vaccine webpage for a list of FAQs about its vaccination process.

For individuals who do not have access to a computer or smartphone to create a My Health Connection account, they may call the UCHealth COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline at (720) 462-2255 to be added to the vaccine registration list. Once individuals are on the list, they will receive a phone call when they are able to schedule a vaccine appointment. The hotline is open from 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday - Friday and 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Saturday Sunday.

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

Page 14

Lost Creek Guide

Former Colorado Proud Program Manager Wendy White Named 2020 CFVGA Member of the Year

Wendy White, who worked for the Colorado Department of Agriculture for more than 20 years promoting local food and agricultural products through the award-winning Colorado Proud program, has been named the Colorado Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (CFVGA) Robert Sakata 2020 Member of the Year. She will be recognized Feb. 18 during the second day of CFVGA’s 7th Annual Conference, which will be presented virtually.

Under White’s management, awareness of the Colorado Proud brand reached 80 percent familiarity among Colorado consumers, and membership grew from 65 members in 1999 to 3,000 in 2020.

In conjunction with public relations partner, Philosophy Communication, Colorado Proud’s summer tours were a fixture of the program’s promotional activities, and communities looked forward to seeing the Colorado Proud wrapped car arrive in town. White traveled across the state promoting local agricultural products, especially Colorado grown fruits and vegetables, through themed events such as Pop-up Picnics, The Faces of Colorado Agriculture and Follow Your Fruits and Vegetables Journey.

The Colorado Proud public relations campaigns received numerous Gold and Silver Pick Awards from the Public Relations Society of America-Colorado Chapter, including the Grand Gold Pick (best in show) for the Follow Your Fruits and Vegetables Journey.

White’s active engagement with CFVGA since the organization’s inception in 2014 helped strengthen the positive message of Colorado produce with consumers. She helped get the word out about the new organization, assisted with news media communication and also served as an active member of the CFVGA conference planning committee for seven years.

“The 2020 Member of the Year selection committee’s decision was unanimous,” said CFVGA President Robert Sakata, the first recipient and after whom the award is named. “Wendy has been a faithful partner in promoting Colorado produce growers throughout this state. She also was a hard-working conference committee member, who contributed her time and talent to enable CFVGA to host quality annual conferences.”

White is the fourth honoree of this award. The 2017 recipient was Sakata, Sakata Farms and founding president of CFVGA. The 2018 recipient was Dr. Michael Bartolo, director of the Colorado State University Arkansas Valley Research Center. The 2019 recipient was Adrian Card, founding CFVGA board member and Boulder County Extension agent.

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

February 17, 2021

SCL Health to Vaccinate 5,000 Seniors in Underserved Denver Communities COVID-19 VACCINE

FILE – In this Jan. 9, 2021, file photo, vials of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine are placed next to a loaded syringe in Throop, Pa. On Sunday, Jan. 17, 2021, California’s state epidemiologist Dr. Erica S. Pan recommended providers stop using lot 41L20A of the Moderna vaccine pending completion of an investigation by state officials, Moderna, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the federal Food and Drug Administration, because some people received medical treatment for possible severe allergic reactions. (Christopher Dolan/The Times-Tribune via AP, File)

DENVER (KDVR) — On Saturday, SCL Health will vaccinate 5,000 people age 70 and older who, the health care provider says, are vulnerable seniors in underserved communities.

SCL Health will be providing Moderna COVID-19 vaccines during a mass vaccination event at the National Western Complex in Denver.

With the help of community organizations such as The Center for African American Health, The Senior Hub and The Center on Colfax, as well as the State of Colorado and the City and County of Denver, SCL Health aims to vaccinate people age 70 and older who are impacted by health equity.

SCL Health says all vaccination appointments are filled for the event on Feb. 6 and walk-ups cannot be accommodated. But people can still register for one of SCL Health’s other vaccination clinics.

People interested in receiving a vaccine do not have to be an SCL Health patient. They can learn more about how to register and be notified when a vaccination appointment is available at https://www.sclhealth.org/covidvaccine/. People can also contact the SCL Health Vaccine Information Line at 1-833-762-0141.

Simpson College Announces Local Students as President’s List Recipients

INDIANOLA, IA (02/12/2021)-- Simpson College announced that 135 students made the President’s List for the 2020 fall semester. Students named to the President’s List achieved a 4.00 grade point average.

Local students achieving the academic honor include: Abigail Rose of Longmont, Colorado, who attended Skyline High School Peyton Smith of Fort Morgan, Colorado, who attended Fort Morgan High School Prospective students interested in learning more about Simpson College can schedule a virtual or in-person campus visit and apply for admission at simpson.edu.

February 17, 2021

Page 15

Lost Creek Guide

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

New Patients Welcome

Assistance for Roggen, Keenesburg, Prospect Valley, & Hudson Call to Request Assistance

303-732-4319

Self Storage

1401 County Road 153 Strasburg, CO 80136

Phone: (303) 622-4142

Managers: Garold & Geraldine Middlemist

Family Medical Care for All Ages

Keene Clinic

190 So. Main St., Keenesburg

303-732-4268

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First Baptist Church, Keenesburg, Food Pantry

Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry

Open Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm

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

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Page 16

Lost Creek Guide

USDA Extends General Signup for Conservation Reserve Program

February 17, 2021

Biden Administration Considers Changes to Bolster Effectiveness of Program and Recommits to Making CRP a Cornerstone of Conservation Programming WASHINGTON, Feb. 5, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is extending the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General Signup period, which had previously been announced as ending on Feb. 12, 2021. USDA will continue to accept offers as it takes this opportunity for the incoming Administration to evaluate ways to increase enrollment. Under the previous Administration, incentives and rental payment rates were reduced resulting in an enrollment shortfall of over 4 million acres. The program, administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), provides annual rental payments for 10 to 15 years for land devoted to conservation purposes, as well as other types of payments.

Before the General CRP signup period ends, producers will have the opportunity to adjust or resubmit their offers to take advantage of planned improvements to the program.

“The Conservation Reserve Program provides a tremendous opportunity to address climate change both by retiring marginal cropland and by restoring grasslands, wetlands, and forests,” said Robert Bonnie, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary. “CRP has a 35-year track record of success beyond just climate benefits, by providing income to producers, improving water quality, reducing erosion, and supporting wildlife habitat and the hunting and fishing opportunities that go along with it. By extending this signup period, we’ll have time to evaluate and implement changes to get this neglected program back on track.”

As one of the largest private-lands conservation programs in the United States, CRP provides both economic and conservation benefits by taking land out of agricultural production.

Program successes include: Sequestering in soils and plants over 12 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent

(CO2e), or about the same amount that the entire state of Delaware emits annually.

Preventing more than 2 billion tons of soil from being blown away by wind erosion over the life of currently enrolled acres.

Reducing phosphorous reaching streams by almost 85 million pounds, nitrogen by nearly 450 million pounds, and sediment by over 160 million tons in 2020 alone.

Creating more than 2.3 million acres of restored wetlands while protecting more than 177,000 stream miles with riparian forest and grass buffers, enough to go around the world seven times.

Establishing over a half million acres of dedicated pollinator habitat and nearly 15 million more acres of diverse plantings that provide forage for pollinators.

Increasing populations of ducks and other game birds, prairie chickens, and such grassland songbirds as Baird’s Sparrow. CRP in the Northern Great Plains supports an estimated 8.6% of the grassland bird population.

Increasing habitat that supports economic opportunities, such as job creation, related to hunting and fishing activities.

This signup for CRP gives producers an opportunity to enroll land for the first time or reenroll land under existing contracts that will be expiring Sept. 30, 2021. All interested producers, including those on Indian reservations and with trust lands, are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center for more information.

All USDA Service Centers are open for business, including those that restrict in-person visits or require appointments. All Service Center visitors wishing to conduct business with FSA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or any other Service Center agency should call ahead and schedule an appointment. Service Centers that are open for appointments will pre-screen visitors based on health concerns or recent travel, and visitors must adhere to social distancing guidelines. Visitors are also required to wear a face covering during their appointment. Our program delivery staff will continue to work with our producers by phone, email, and using online tools. More information can be found at farmers.gov/coronavirus. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

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WELD CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS VARSITY WRESTLING

Weld Central High School Boys Varsity Wrestling finishes 2nd place at Quadrangular @ Bennett High School

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Friday, February 5, 2021 5:00 PM Place 2 Points 30 The Boys Varsity wrestling team picked up two wins on Friday night in a quad hosted at Bennett High school. The Rebels were able to defeat the Highland Huskies by a score of 42-18 before falling to Strasburg high school 30-36.

In the final dual of the evening, Weld Central defeated Bennett by a score of 36-30. The final dual highlighted the evening with several matches between highly ranked competitors.

In the final match of the night Robert Estrada (Currently Ranked #1 at 113 pounds) picked up the dual winning victory via pin over Bennett’s Jack Faczak (Currently Ranked #3 at 113 pounds). Estrada was also able to reach 100 victories in his high school career on Friday night, highlighting an exceptional night of wrestling.

The Rebels take on Aurora Central Wednesday night at home at 5:00. Individual results from Friday night are as follows.

Owen Reininger 106 lbs 3-0 Roberto Estrada 113 lbs 3-0 Isaac Almaswari 120 lbs 1-2 Cassidy Park 138 lbs 1-2 Asher Morelock 145 lbs 1-2 Tanner Baumgartner 160 lbs 2-1 Bryson Ingles 170 lbs 1-2 Braden Baumgartner 195 lbs 2-1 Zayne Stam 220 lbs 3-0 Kane Fobare 285 lbs 3-0