Oil & Gas Issue
Delivering over 40,000 papers to rural Adams, Morgan, and Weld Counties
Volume 9 • Edition 04
March 15, 2014
Raw Data from Colorado Oil & Gas Association website: coga.org
Open Primaries in Colorado are One Way to Counter Partisan Politics
Colorado’s center doesn’t have a voice in the process
By Kent Thiry In his farewell address to the nation in 1796, President George Washington provided what has proven to be a remarkably insightful warning about the influence of political parties. These parties, Washington penned, “serve to organize faction, to give it an artificial and extraordinary force; to put, in the place of the delegated will of the nation, the will of a party, often a small but artful and enterprising minority of the community.” More than 200 years later, Washington’s words are startlingly prescient. With the smoke clearing from last fall’s fractious elections, and a contentious Congress in session, lawmakers have returned to old habits with their abysmal track record of policy gridlock. Now is the time to work toward essential reforms that correct the dangers our forefathers warned against. It has become increasingly popular and justified to criticize the performance of Congress over the last 20 years, even as the basic architecture of our electoral process fuels polarization among members with partisan-driven closed primaries and gerrymandering/redistricting. Largely left unaddressed is the issue of primaries. Face it, the current political system rewards those who can best articulate their cause and support their outer fringes Cont. on Page 13, See Open Primaries One Way to Counter Partisan Politics
WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE:
Page 7: Weld Central Students Compete at TSA State Leadership Page 11: Ceretto Family Proud to Call Ft. Lupton Home Page 14: Zenergy De-esculating the Fracking Wars Page 14: COGA Holds Iron Chef Competition Page 16: The Basics: Well to Wheel Page 17: COGCC Update on Colo. Flood Response Page 19: Celebrating Centennial of the Lazy S Over S Ranch Page 20: Stub’s Gas & Oil Celebrates 65 Years Page 21: Growth in US Hydrocarbon Production Page 22: Air Quality Regulation Fast Facts
www.lostcreekguide.com
Raw Data from Colorado Oil & Gas Association website: coga.org
Managing Oil and Gas Development
Recently I had the opportunity to read a McKinsey Global Institute paper published in December of 2013 entitled: “Reverse the curse: Maximizing the potential of resource driven economies.” The paper focused on the development of resources in undeveloped countries.. Yet upon reflection there was much to be seen as a parallel to be learned by all of us, at a local, state and national level. The overall model focused on transforming the potential resource windfall into long term prosperity. It had six core elements: • Building the institutions and governance of the resource sector • Developing infrastructure • Ensuring robust fiscal policy and competitiveness • Supporting local content • Deciding how to spend a resources windfall wisely • Transforming resource wealth into broader economic development As can be seen at the head of this page, horizontal drilling oil development is currently focused in Weld County in Colorado although it is beginning to spread. Horizontal drilling has shown a much higher average daily production from around 100 barrels per day in 2010 to around 350 barrels per day per new well in 2013.( Energy Information Agency Niobrara Drilling Report New Well Oil Production per rig report March 2014). Looking at an EIA display of possible shale production opportunities in the United States one has to wonder looking at the six core elements mentioned above, why we as a country do not have a consistent national energy policy that focuses on the resource management that allows the development of a national plan or guidelines for the states to implement so that the benefits of the oil production can be used with the six core elements in mind. As a country we have fundamental issues that need to be addressed: healthcare, particularly our seniors and young people, infrastructure deterioration, education, economic development opportunities. In Colorado we have the same issues, yet we seem stalled in having a legislature that will not face the tough issues. They get side tracked on partisan secondary issues. Let us elect people who understand they are there to do the people’s work not their personal issues work. Most of the increased oil and gas production has been stimulated by the increase in horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing process, something that has been around for a long while. We want safe and healthy energy development and the economic benefits that come from it. We have the resources but do we have the will to drive it to closure and produce a state and then perhaps a national plan to effectively develop our resources. A plan that has everyone participate, not just in the economic benefit but also in the production piece. Oil is not everywhere but those places that have it should exploit it. But we should exploit it with the intent of addressing the needs of all our people. Do our existing elected politicians have the will?
Page 2
Leadership
Lost Creek Guide
Leadership is defined in many ways, one being someone who guides or directs others or organizes a group for a common goal. In either case it is to get people to get things accomplished. Our main political parties today are driven by their extreme left or right wing bases. I remind them that if they get 100% of their base that they are not guaranteed a win. Colorado is in reality a purple state, whether you like that or not. We should nominate and elect people who can get things done not ones who pass loyalty and purity tests. Our current Colorado state legislature, for the most part, our governor and our U.S. Senators are not focused on the needs of the people they are focused on their party loyalties. It was a joke to see our U.S. Senators participate in the global warming all nighter in the U.S. Senate to attract attention of the California money being offered by the green of the green. Do they think we are stupid? Unfortunately I believe that answer to that is yes. We have major issues on health care, education, debt, water management, entitlements, and immigration and yet what do we see being accomplished? Nothing. People are tired of that. The election Tuesday in Florida of Mr. Jolly is an indicator that people are tired of electing people who do nothing but support the party line. We need folks with basic common sense who will do the people’s business. That means willing to listen to what others have to say and develop an approach that is reasonable, that can be passed and implemented. Common sense is a major piece of what we need and should expect from our politicians. An east coast politician said if you are looking for someone you can agree with 100% go to the mirror in your bathroom and look at it. That is the only place you will see it. Political races should not be beauty contests or tests of loyalty to the party base or the aspirations of political egos without the basis of accomplishment to support their candidacy. Based on those thoughts the Lost Creek Guide is proud to endorse the following candidates: Cory Gardner for Colorado U.S. Senate seat John Cooke for Colorado Senate District 13 Jerry Sonnenberg for Colorado Senate District 1 John Becker for Colorado House District 65 Carly Koppes for Weld County Clerk & Recorder Barb Kirkmeyer for U.S. Congressional District 4 We wish them the best in striving towards winning their respective office.
Erie Earns Community Partner of the Year Award from Upstate Colorado
During Upstate Colorado Economic Development’s 2014 Annual Meeting on February 13th, the Town of Erie was presented with the Community Partner of the Year Award. Attending Upstate’s Annual Meeting and Award Ceremony on behalf of the Town were: Mayor Joe Wilson, Mayor Pro Tem Ronda Grassi, Economic Development Coordinator Paula Mehle and Communications & Marketing Coordinator Katie Jenkins. Background: In August 2012, the Town announced the hiring of Paula Mehle as Economic Development Coordinator. In her role Paula is responsible for coordinating the Town’s economic development efforts including retail attraction and primary employment recruitment. Paula works closely with both the public and private sectors and has achieved positive outcomes on behalf of the Town. Though economic development is an organizational priority for the Town, presentation of the Community Partner of the Year Award to Erie is in great measure recognition of Paula’s efforts by her peers throughout the region. The Town’s accomplishments during the past year that were highlighted by Upstate Colorado include but are not limited to the following: Increased presence at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) convention. Developed award winning mobile app, “Erie CO @ ICSC”, to promote key retail intersections. Created Residential Development Conditions map identifying dwelling unit build out numbers. Enhanced communication with community members, real estate brokers and retailers. Increased messaging for new development, retail projects and Erie’s business friendly conditions. Supported activities of the Erie Chamber of Commerce and Erie Economic Development Council. Hosted Commercial Broker Open House in Historic Downtown Erie for local and regional brokers.
The Lost Creek Guide, Llc Bob Grand - Publisher 303-732-4080 - editor@lostcreekguide.com
Darlene Ruyle - Editor Contact at 970-380-7817 or editor@lostcreekguide.com Mindy Quimby - Graphic Designer
Our deadline is 7 working days before publication
105 Woodward - PO Box 581 Keenesburg, CO 80643
Published bi-monthly on the 1st & the 15th and sent to all Postal Boxes. Our hours are Tuesday, Weds, & Thursday 10am to 3pm. Call or email us for advertising rates. Bob Grand 303-732-4080 publisher@lostcreekguide.com
March 15, 2014
LETTER TO THE EDITOR AND CITIZENS OF ERIE Ronda Grassi for Mayor
I’ve known Ronda Grassi for nearly a decade now and have always been impressed by the way she looks at community, life, business, and her philosophy of change. She’s a smart businesswoman who’s successfully started and grown her small business, weathering recession during lean financial times and refocusing her business strategy and tactics as technology and the market have shifted over the years. Her success in business, ability to be nimble and not stagnant has enabled her to give back to her community. Ronda has been an instrumental volunteer with the Louisville Street Fair from its early inception, assisting with organization efforts in bringing that beloved summer activity to fruition. Her knowledge and enthusiasm for replicating a similar community experience for the citizens of Erie is vital for our town. Promoting and growing our existing downtown small business community, while attracting new business, coupled with providing a family friendly environment to enjoy the outdoors and each other with a unique identity that is Erie; certainly sounds like a win-win to me across the board. As a small business owner myself who attends multiple business functions in our surrounding towns, it’s not uncommon for me to be asked on occasion what’s going on in Erie; especially when we make the local press for the wrong reasons with the myriad of negative press and letters that have been released as of late. I know from experience that Ronda has a very pragmatic, business like process at looking at issues and problems; she takes logical, thoughtful steps toward a successful conclusion without the need for “scorched earth” emotion and ugly politics that have no business in Public Service. It’s bad enough reading about what’s going on at the National level, even worse when it’s happening at the Town level; I know Ronda can provide a strong voice of reason and truly has her heart and mind in the right place when it comes to the advancement of our town’s quality of life. She’s a champion of compromise and understands that disagreements aren’t personal, they’re business oftentimes coupled with an emotional edge, and as such are meant to be resolved with even keeled negotiation and strong integrity. Ronda’s goal is to move Erie forward with inclusion for all, she’s the first one to say that it will take collective mindshare with the absence of apathy in order to achieve a goal; and she knows how to energize and bring people together to that end. I look forward to the days of placing small town political negativity-as I believe we all are- behind us and collectively move forward into the future together. Erie needs to continue building and re-building relationships with each other and with our surrounding communities to the betterment of the citizens that are proud to call Erie home. Be sure to set aside some time to listen or read up on her ideas yourself, her enthusiasm is infectious and unmistakable. I firmly believe that Ronda Grassi has the leadership, experience, vision, insight, and relationships to enhance and improve the Town of Erie’s direction. She certainly has my vote as she’s earned it, I hope she can earn yours as well. Kind regards, Kevin Chard
Support for Ronda Grassi
I would like to voice my support for Ronda Grassi, a true leader for Erie. Ronda has the ability to listen and communicate the need for a bipartisan board; one that will move Erie into a future not yet realized. Ronda has an incredible passion and vision for Erie. She is not a politician, she is very genuine and I and other citizens like that! Not only does Ronda bring passion to Erie, she has proven experience in economic development. Anybody can say the word Economic Development buzzword, Ronda has actually done it and is really, really good at it! Get up and vote for Ronda Grassi! Pat Abate
Erie Needs STRONG Leadership in our Mayor
My favorite politician is when the person is not a politician. Ronda Grassi has so impressed me because politics have never changed her. She is the same, caring person that she always was and is. Coincidentally, she is also very charismatic, a great speaker, a businesswoman with a skill set very becoming of a mayor. She has the ability to communicate and listen to all sides to find solutions that can work. There is one thing for sure, Ronda is not a ‘Poser’ like some others. Ronda is as genuine as can be and has the skill set to help Erie become its very best. Please, get the word out that we must have Ronda Grassi as our next Mayor of Erie. Masako James
Ronda Grassi for Mayor “I believe in community service and can offer my experience to further the interests of our citizens.”
Economic Independence
Economic development is not just a phrase, it’s a plan.
Sports Tourism
Let’s make Erie a sports destination.
Historic Downtown
Our town should grow from the center outward.
Vote Ronda Grassi for Mayor "Ronda will be a great Mayor for Erie. Her knowledge of business and her drive to get things done is exactly what Erie needs." – Joe Carnival, Erie Trustee
paid for by Grassi For Mayor
www.GrassiForMayor.com
March 15, 2014
LETTER TO THE EDITOR AND CITIZENS OF ERIE Erie Trustees Need to Remember Town Hall Meetings Are Televised and Citizens Watch
My husband and I love being citizens of Erie. I like the people, the views, the parks, the new businesses and schools. However, there are some things that I can live without. After viewing the televised version of Erie’s last town hall meeting, (my first time) I was shocked at the rude behavior of a couple of our trustees who were disrupting the proceedings, harassing the Mayor and disrespectful of guests. As a citizen who is proud of her town I would like our elected officials to behave better than selfish children. To their credit; The other town Board members acted in a professional, thoughtful manner. I am aware that the rude trustees in question (Gruber and Moore) were also recently censured. Apparently, censure wasn’t enough. Children acting disrespectful would be disciplined; these elected officials have proven they just need to be removed. If they are hoping to run again, I will not support them and will encourage others to avoid them. Erie is a wonderful place with terrific neighbors and citizens and we deserve decent adults to represent us. Diane Collins, Erie, CO
LETTER TO THE EDITOR AND CITIZENS OF LOCHBUIE
Support Candy Veldhuizen, Lochbuie Trustee
Dear Lochbuie Residents, I am writing this letter on a day with clouds in the sky and spring snow, but all I see is sunshine. For the first time in many years the level of excitement and optimism is high in Lochbuie. Over the last four years I have served as your Trustee. This experience has been hard, heart wrenching, rewarding and wonderful. Now I’m asking your support to continue this journey. We as a board have overcome the hardest part of our job over the last few years, now it is time for our community to reap the rewards. Lochbuie is now on a sound financial footing for the first time in over a decade. Four years ago the new board understood we as a community had much to overcome. An assertive effort was made to set goals, hire the right people, follow a plan of action and not look back, but steam ahead. Other good news, we have new homes being built again in town. Our local developers are receiving inquiries about land development. Movement is happening after the recession that hasn’t taken place in years. We must continue to place the town in a positive position by being prepared for the opportunities that would benefit our overall long term goals. On a social level I believe small town values and experiences for families to build traditions are equally important. That is why I am working hard to have events like the Lochbuie 40th Anniversary Celebration and the Easter Egg Hunt, both happening soon. It is these types of activities that build a community and are an important part of the vision I have for Lochbuie. It is all of our responsibility to continue to build and achieve goals for our town. Thoughtful and smart growth takes much more time than you would imagine. I assure you I will continue pushing forward to bring the type of improvements to Lochbuie, and amenities your family expects for the quality of life everyone deserves. I want the opportunity to work, create and build for all of our futures; please vote on April 1st to support me. If you are registered you will receive a ballot by mail, you may mail back or drop it off to Town Hall. If you are not registered to vote, you can do so by visiting Town Hall and receive a ballot. Thank you for your continued support, Candy Candace M. Veldhuizen, Mayor Pro-Tem Lochbuie
Grant Doherty – Candidate for Lochbuie Town Trustee
Though I have only lived in Lochbuie for three years it is where I decided to live and make my home. Since then I have thoroughly enjoyed living here and have met many great people and have gained many friends. Being involved in the community has always been important to me which is why shortly after moving to Lochbuie I became involved with my local home owners association as well as the Lochbuie Planning Commission. Since then I have stayed closely involved with these groups and am now a current Town of Lochbuie Trustee. Though my time as a Trustee has been short, I am excited to see the direction the town is headed in and am eager to contribute in helping the town move forward. Many have big and great ideas for Lochbuie and having the opportunity to be involved in this decision making process and help cultivate the community is very exciting for me. As a Town Trustee I can promise my dedication and hard work in continuing to move the town forward and to listen and address comments and concerns from the community. I ask all the citizens of Lochbuie for their support come April 1st in the election, as I would be greatly honored to continue my service for the town and help the town continue to develop and prosper in the future. Grant Doherty
BINGO Third Saturday of the Month 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm There is also “pickle/pull tabs” available everyday! Please come join us for some fun and socializing!
Page 3
Lost Creek Guide
LETTER TO THE EDITOR AND CITIZENS OF KEENESBURG
Vote Yes on Question B
The current sales tax rate in the Town of Keenesburg is 2%; the town has not had a sales tax increase for thirty years. The cost of virtually everything has seen significant increases over the past thirty years, the materials, and services that the town uses are no exception. The town currently collects approximately $108,000 annually in sales tax of which only 12.5% goes to the general fund, and 87.5% goes to the capital improvement fund. This amounts to approximately $94,500 that is required to go into the capital improvement fund. It is impossible to complete all the repairs and maintenance that our streets need with this amount of money. The 12.5% that is required to go into the general fund amounts to approximately $13,500, this money is mainly used for street sign replacement and salt sand for the streets during the winter. As costs continue to increase the town’s money covers less and less. How can we as citizens expect the town to keep up and maintain the paved streets with the revenue that the town currently collects? I support the 1% sales tax increase that will help to increase the revenue and help keep our paved streets from crumbling. Sales tax is the perfect avenue to provide for the town’s streets, as it passes the cost along to those who use the streets. The Board of Trustees is working for the people and is asking for a modest 1% increase while maintaining the sales tax food exemption. This small increase will make a world of difference and give the town more money to work with to maintain the streets. The Town of Keenesburg Board of Trustees is also seeking a 1% increase in use tax. This tax is collected on building materials only. Growth is inevitable and it makes sense to increase the use tax ahead of any residential development and makes sure that development pays its own way. In addition, use tax revenue is dedicated to the general fund, which shoulders nearly all the costs of keeping the town running. Vote yes on question 2A The Town of Keenesburg paid its sales tax bond in full in January of this year, five years early. This demonstrates a high degree of fiscal responsibility. A new bond in the amount of $960,000 will enable the town to plan for a large-scale street replacement program for some areas that in dire need. Without a new bond, the town is no position to plan any large project, as the revenue simply is just not enough to pay for a large project, the best the town can do without a new bond is simply to patch and crack seal, and hope the streets can last. We want to keep the town looking nice, and keep our paved streets. Since the town’s bond was paid, it will not place an undue burden on the finances to make the payments to repay this new bond. In addition, now is the perfect time for a new bond, as the interest rates are still very low. Vote yes on question 2B Mayor Danny Kipp
LETTER TO THE EDITOR AND CITIZENS OF ERIE Dan Woog Envisions Bright Future for Erie
I want to tell you of an outstanding citizen of Erie that is on the ballot for Trustee, Dan Woog. When I moved to Colorado in 2008, one of the first neighbors that introduced themselves to me was Dan and his wife, Rianne. Also coming from a Midwest upbringing, I appreciated Dan’s honesty and family values. Over the next years, we became great friends because of this. He is highly motivated to better himself as well as his surroundings; doing several upgrades their home and landscaping even though they were only renting at that time. They strived to bring our neighborhood together by organizing gatherings and barbeques; creating a sense of togetherness instead of just mere passerbys. Dan and his family have since purchased their own home in Erie Commons and continue their mission to be more than just neighbors to those who live around them, but rather a strong network of support; a true community. Dan brings this mission to his decisions when on the Board of Trustees as well. Dan doesn’t follow the majority, but rather, investigates for the truth and makes his decisions based on fact, not emotion. He stands up for what he believes in, even if that means standing alone. He envisions a bright future for Erie without leaving the sense of community. I will be voting for Dan Woog for Trustee on April 1st. I am privileged to call Dan friend and I will be proud to call him Trustee. Laurie Grant
Lost Creek Guide March 15, 2014 Page 4 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR & CITIZENS OF ERIE LETTER TO THE EDITOR Dan Woog, Good Man for Trustee Ag is Driving Economic Force in Colorado Dear Editor, I wanted to send you a quick note regarding Dan Woog. He and his beautiful family recently moved into the Erie Commons Neighborhood and more importantly onto my street. From day 1 my 4 children, my wife and I have fallen in love with the Woogs. They are what my Dad would call... “Good People”. They are family!!! Maybe, I should remind him he is a McIntire now and needs to fix his campaign signs? My wife is a Special Education Teacher of 10 years and I am the Director of Sales for a very small company near Denver so, as you can imagine with a 14, 9 and twin 6 year olds no one political party is favored in our home. In truth I would say politics is usually a strange conversation in our home because, we see good and bad in politics and agree and disagree with both Democrats and Republicans alike. Most people leave wondering which side of the isle we stand. When asked I say “right down the middle baby”(Fiscally conservative/Socially Liberal... Like Joe Friday... “just the facts ma’am”) and believe in the right man/women at the right time for the right job! Dan and his family ARE “Good People” and we are so happy to call them friends and neighbors! In the short time we have known the Woogs we have had many of late night conversations and I will tell you.... Dan will always put the people of Erie first over political agenda and make the right choice for the good of the people he serves! Dan is all about the facts and educating himself about both sides of whatever the subject and forms his OWN opinions based on that regardless of his politics. I respect this way of living and bet Dan sleeps better at night because of it. Look... Dan and I may not always agree on all topics however, I know Dan cares deeply about his family, his neighbors and community. Dan is fair, trusting and all around good man with an honest soul! You know the saying.... Good People do not enter politics because, they want to stay good... right? I believe Dan Woog is a Good Man and is the right man at this time for this job! He will make a fantastic Trustee! Please be fair to Dan through his run for Trustee of Erie! Sincerely, Rich McIntire
Dan Woog – the right choice for Erie
Dear Editor, I have had the pleasure to know Dan Woog and his family for six years. The Woog’s are a wonderful family who believe in the active community lifestyle that is Erie. Erie is a fast growing community and we need a trustee that will ensure the citizens of Erie have a strong voice. I believe the citizens in the Town of Erie will be well served to elect Dan Woog as trustee. As a Trustee, Dan has shown no personal agenda, only the desire to see Erie grow carefully and thoughtfully. Dan believes in fiscal responsibility and advocates the quality of life for Erie families. Dan believes Erie is a wonderful place to live, work and play and I am proud to sign my name in support of his candidacy. I hope you will join me in voting for Dan Woog for Town of Erie trustee. Eric Guerrero
Rural Colorado continues to be the solid economic force that has protected Colorado from the drastic results of the recession that has been seen in other states. Between the number one industry in the state which is energy production and agriculture that comes in second, we should be proud that our neighbors worked with us to be that solid foundation for our states economic well-being. There are more than 36,000 farms in the state encompassing some 31 million acres. Agriculture continues to be a driving economic force, providing 170,000 jobs and contributing more than $40 billion to the state’s economy annually. Over the years, Colorado producers have diversified to grow grapes, sunflowers, oats, mushrooms, fish, bison, ostrich, emu and more to fill the wants and needs of consumers, yet the more traditional commodities such as cattle, corn, dairy products, wheat and hay continue to lead product sales. Colorado continues to be one of the fastest-growing states in population in the country. The demand for a variety of fresh food at consumers’ fingertips is the highest it has ever been — and that will continue to grow. Colorado agriculture has a lot to boast about, and consumers should know just how efficient our producers are. They are the backbone of our nation and we should encourage more leaders to surface from rural Colorado at the local, state and federal levels. Rep. Jerry Sonnenberg, R-Sterling, is owner and operator of Sonnenberg Farms. Thanks, Jerry Sonnenberg, State Representative
100 S. Main, Keenesburg, CO 80643 730 E. Bridge St., Brighton 80601 We’re available by appointment Monday-Saturday
Office 303-732-1115 FAX 303-732-4053 Liz Sauter 303-815-2731 Christine Curl 303-884-3466 Serving the I-76 & I-70 corridors:
Brighton, Hudson, Ft. Lupton, Keenesburg, Roggen, Wiggins, Bennett, Strasburg, Byers.
www.ColoradoTenderfoot.com HOMES WITH ACREAGE:
*4.5 ac, Tucked away Country ranch on walkout, Great room w/stone surround kitchen, New sod, Trees. CR 6/61 $369.9K *5 ac, charming 2 bed/1bath farm house, det 2 story garage adjoining 32 ac for sale. CR 59/6 $195K
*7 ac, Custom built home, u pick colors, finishes, 3 bed/2ba, 2.900 sq.ft.,bsmnt,30886 Keenesburg. $325K *10 ac, Custom ranchUNDER in Bromley CONTRACT Estates, lake & mountain views, Morton shop w/power, concrete, 152nd & Kirby. $385K UNDER CONTRACT *14 ac, GORGEOUS custom w/incredible floor plan, Bonus room, 4 car gar., BIG Quonset. CR63/CR4. $435K *16 ac, Horse setup w/loafing & hayCONTRACT sheds, cross-fenced, Rancher on bsmt, Open plan w/big Country kitchen. 8285 Hwy. 52. $275K UNDER *35 ac, 4 bed, 4 bath w/over 4120 PERFECTLY finished sf. Shop, barn, greenhouse, patio w/pond & so much more. 15700 Penrith $550K *37 ac. Charming & Updated 3 bedrm home. Barn, fencing, outbldg, mature Trees/Gardens. 45600 168th Ave. $289K *55 irrigated ac, Amazing Custom 4-5 bdrm 2-stry. w/all the Extras,40x50 outbldg or Hangar, Barn. 5202 CR 59 $695K *112 ac, (105 irrigated), custom brick ranch, 50x40 bldg. w/14’ door, 100x50 Quonset w/18’ door & car lift. CR 18/61. $700K *120 ac, irrigated farm, pasture, fencing, ranch home, barn/shop, garages. CR55/18 $699.5K
SMALL TOWN LIVING:
*Jackson Lake get-away /stocked*HotTub*New Kitchen*2bed/2bath, full Sunroom*230 Pueblo Cir. $120K UNDER CONTRACT *Lovely 4 bed, 3 bath w/full finished bsmt. Amazing landscaping, Over-sized 2 car grg/shop. 70 Miller $199.9K *Brick beauty w/new lawn, Great room w/stone fireplace, 2 master suites, 4-car storage. 120 Morgan. $275K
LAND: Some with owner financing * 15000 sf lot across from park on Elm. Only $22K * (2) 75’x150’ lots; mods OK, Roggen $45K ea * 1 ac, w/well rady to build Hwy 79 $39K * 3 ac, windbreak, electric, CR 57 so of CR 20 $55K * 3 ac, CR 12/41. Hudson. $50k. * 4 ac, views, paved, CR 59 N of Hwy 52 $59K * 4.77, hilltop, views. CR 18/61, $45K **4-10 ac., power near CR 63/8. $41-71K ** (2) 5 ac,views,power.CR 18/65. $55K ea *5-7 ac, mods OK CR 4 & CR 83, $59K-60K * 5 ac, fenced, views, CR75.5/18 $55K * (2) 5 ac, views, electric, square CR 14 $60K ea * (2) 6ac,ez drive,views,Paved SOLD CR 59 $65K ** (3) 7 ac, valley & mtn views, CR 18/61 $80K
* 8 & 12 UNDER ac w/hills, CONTRACT views, Hwy 52/CR 91 $58-62K *8 ac, views, paved rd, electric, Hwy 52/CR 91 $58K * 10 ac,power.Paved R 77/Hwy.52.$79Kea. * 10+ ac, lake-mtn views, Estates at Bromley $126K * 15 ac, can split, no cov’s CR 398 $100K * 25 ac, views. CR 18/61 $100K * 32 irg acres,fncd,alfalfa.CR59/8.$175K **35 ac.pwr, level site. Schumaker & 104th, $85K * 37 ac,split 2011, view, no cov’s CR 20/55 $144K ***38 ac, mtn. views, power. Cavanaugh. $135K * 38 ac, views. Off Bromley/Cavanaugh.$100K * 100 irrigated ac in alfalfa.CR20/53.$300K * 160 ac to make 4 lots! Power, views. CR 95 $240K
** (bold) Owner Carry Financing
INVESTMENTS: * Complete Subdivision with (10) 3-4 acre lots. Water,electric & phone available. $10K each + $17,400 water tap fee. Wiggins. $274K
* 2 AC Highly Visible Commercial Ground. Next to Colo East Bank on Woodward, Keenesburg. $180K * 12 acres off Bromley & Telluride in Brighton, w/home, barn & 2 shops to rent out. Develop the rest.$1.5M.
www.ColoradoTenderfoot.com
March 15, 2014
Lost Creek Guide
Page 5
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR & CITIZENS OF WELD COUNTY Koppes for Weld County Clerk & Recorder
Hello everyone, I am Carly Koppes and I am your candidate for Weld County Clerk and Recorder. I am very excited to be running for Weld County Clerk and Recorder, as I have been a Deputy Clerk working in all three departments of the office for the past decade; Recording, Motor Vehicle and Elections. My main office has been the Elections department, which is very important for your next Clerk and Recorder to know the ends and outs of all procedures that the Elections department has. I am that candidate that knows the procedures, along with Federal and State law. As we have seen over last years and this year’s State General Assembly session, we are facing ever changing election laws. The vision I see for our Elections office in Weld County is to make sure we are still doing everything in our power to keep the integrity of our elections to the highest it can be and making sure that we continue to give 100% to you as voter’s of this county the peace of mind that we in the Election department are working as hard as we can to ensure that your vote is counted in the approved manner and that the registration process is accurate as well. I know I have the ability to work with our people down in Denver to help and not hinder the election process. My vision for the Recording department, since we are now a 24/7 office because of the great work all of the Recording staff did on the scanning project, is to make sure we are serving you as the public and the industries that need the recorded information to the best we can, making sure that our procedures are helping and not hindering the industries that need the information from the Recording department and to also increase the online filings. My vision for the Motor Vehicle department is to make sure the public is well informed on what they will need for their visit to one of the three locations in Weld County. Also, you know your schedule better than anyone else, I would like to do what a couple of other states have in place, which is being able to schedule an appointment to come and complete your title work for your vehicle or renew your tags on your plates. I know this will help with the wait time in all three department locations. Motor Vehicle is a State department with the Counties being the agents of the Department of Revenue, we cannot control how much your plates will be but we can strive to serve the public with professional employees and be mindful with your time. We are seeing a lot of growth in Weld County and we need to make sure as your elected officials we are being mindful to the increase population. The Clerk and Recorders office touches everyone who lives in Weld County, I know and understand that being the Clerk and Recorder has a lot of responsibility and with my knowledge and experience in all three departments I am the best candidate. Born and raised in Weld County, growing up on horseback I know what hard work is about, and being a land owner with horses and a home I truly appreciate Weld County and everything it has to offer. I hope I can earn your support during this exciting time being on this side of the ballot! Again my name is Carly Koppes and I running for Weld County Clerk and Recorder. Email: koppesforclerk@gmail.com Phone Number: 970-590-9335
Wheat Farmers Encouraged to Approve Wheat Assessment
Dear Editor: As a fellow wheat farmer, I am writing to encourage other wheat producers to vote to permanently reapprove the current two-cent per bushel wheat assessment. This increase was approved in 2007, with the provision that wheat farmers would have seven years to evaluate the effectiveness of the increased funding for wheat research, market development and education programs and vote to reapprove in 2014. More than 50 percent of the fully refundable increase from one cent per bushel has been allocated to wheat research. This expanded funding continues our wheat research program at Colorado State University (CSU), bringing us wheat varieties tailored for Colorado, such as Hatcher, Byrd and Brawl CL Plus. I am also growing Snowmass developed by CSU and receiving a 65 cent per bushel quality premium. The future promises even faster development and release of better varieties through implementation of new breeding technologies including doubledhaploid breeding and the capacity to more rapidly respond to new insect and disease threats. Even more exiting varieties are in the pipeline at CSU, to ensure a bright future for wheat in Colorado. Budgets are developed and approved by www.dcpmidstream.com the Colorado Wheat Administrative Committee (CWAC) which is the producer-electIt’s the law. More importantly, it’s the single best way to More importantly, it’s the single best way to ed board of control (directors), Adminismake sure underground utilities are identified for the safety trative costs have remained low and about make sure underground utilities are identified for the safety 91 percent of the budget goes directly into of you and your neighboring community to safeguard everyone who lives and works along our of you and your neighboring community to safeguard everyone who lives and works along our research, market development and educapipelines. Emergencies are preventable. It costs nothing to do the right thing. You can prevent pipelines. Emergencies are preventable. It costs nothing to do the right thing. You can prevent tion programs. The Colorado Commissioner accidents by reporting anyone excavating on or near a pipeline or pipeline marker sign, anyone accidents by reporting anyone excavating on or near a pipeline or pipeline marker sign, anyone of Agriculture must review and approve the illegally entering a pipeline facility, or any possible emergency that might occur. budget each year. illegally entering a pipeline facility, or any possible emergency that might occur. What will this permanent increase really HHere ere are some helpful tips on identifying buried pipelines and helping us prevent pipeline cost us as producers? I maintain that it will are some helpful tips on identifying buried pipelines and helping us prevent pipeline emergencies: cost us nothing and we as wheat producers emergencies: will actually benefit. By continuing to devel• Check your property plat or title report for pipeline easements. As a property owner, you may • Check your property plat or title report for pipeline easements. As a property owner, you may op new varieties with higher yields and betnot be aware there are pipelines running through your land. not be aware there are pipelines running through your land. ter quality, and by developing new markets, • Before you dig, call 811. This service is absolutely free and is available 24 hours a day. • Before you dig, call 811. This service is absolutely free and is available 24 hours a day. we will gain in the market place. • Call two working days before you dig, drill, blast, or doze. Colorado wheat producers took a gigantic • Call two working days before you dig, drill, blast, or doze. step forward in 2007 to take greater control • Watch for pipeline marker signs at roads, railroad crossings, fence lines and other pipeline • Watch for pipeline marker signs at roads, railroad crossings, fence lines and other pipeline of our future. I believe CWAC has wisely infacilities. (Pipeline marker signs are used to identify the owner of the pipeline, contact phone facilities. (Pipeline marker signs are used to identify the owner of the pipeline, contact phone vested the increased assessment funds over numbers as well as the approximate location of the pipelines.) numbers as well as the approximate location of the pipelines.) the past seven years and we have already • If you have concerns, questions or you are reporting a possible pipeline emergency • If you have concerns, questions or you are reporting a possible pipeline emergency reaped some of the benefits with Byrd and Brawl CL Plus. I strongly urge you to join me near our pipelines or pipeline marker signs, please call us toll free 24 hours a day at: near our pipelines or pipeline marker signs, please call us toll free 24 hours a day at: in voting yes because the best is yet to come. Let’s continue to invest in and protect our wheat and our future. Sincerely, Steve Beedy, Genoa, CO
Before You Dig, Call 811. It’s the law.
(888) 204‐1781 or (800) 435‐1679.
Page 6
Lost Creek Guide
March 15, 2014
AS OUR TOUCH GETS LIGHTER…
THE OPPORTUNITIES GROW LARGER.
Our business is about more than exploration and production. It’s about improving the lives of those around us by helping the communities in which we live and work grow and prosper. It’s about providing our employees with opportunities to make positive contributions and constantly challenging ourselves to fif ind better solutions. It’s about continuously striving to be a better industry partner and leaving behind a legacy of sustainability wherever we can.
March 15, 2014
Page 7
Lost Creek Guide
Weld Central Technology Student Association Competes at TSA State Leadership Exposition
By Debbie Chestnut, Weld Central High School TSA Advisor Nine members of Weld Central’s chapter of Technology Student Association (TSA) attended the 28th Annual Colorado TSA State Leadership Exposition in Denver from February 27th through March 1st. Advisor Debbie Chestnut and two chaperones, Jason Smith and Weld Central Alum, Chris Wirick attended the event at the Denver Tech Marriott and Convention Center along with the 9 TSA members. The State Leadership Exposition basically consists of the state competitions offered through TSA, along with a banquet/business meeting, opening ceremony, social events on Friday night and the awards ceremony held on Saturday afternoon. Six participants were returning from previous year’s state competitions. These returning members were Seniors Tannah Powell and Micah Angle, Juniors Chanise Hoffmann, Caitie Booco, Michael Jensen and Delaina Front: Advisor Mrs. Debbie Chestnut, Tan- Moore. The other 3 members were nah Powell, Caitie Booco, Chaperone and first time attendees. They are Juniors TSA alum Chris Wirick, and Michael Jensen. Molly McGee and Jessica Beach, and Row 2: Jessica Beach, Molly McGee, Delaina Sophomore Austen Murphy. Moore, and Chanise Hoffmann. Back: LongThe events that Weld Central comtime Chaperone Jason Smith, Austen Murphy, peted in consisted of the following: and Micah Angle. Technology Problem Solving, Rat trap Dragsters, Photographic Technology, Technology Bowl, Structural Engineering, and Flight Endurance. The chapter was quite successful in Photographic Technology with both of our participants advancing to the final round, Delaina Moore and Chanise Hoffmann. Delaina Moore was awarded the 3rd place medal in the competition. The Weld Central Chapter of Technology Student Association encourages all high school students, grades 9-12 to become a member in TSA and compete in over 40 events related in some way, shape, or form to science, technology, engineering or math. The TSA Motto fits the events appropriately: Learning to Live in a Technical World.” Please congratulate these students for a fine showing and for putting out their best effort and representing Weld Central in a way in which we can be most proud. Way to go Weld Central TSA! Chanise Hoffmann and Caitie Booco
Teater Realty Co. Jody Malone
jmgottago@aol.com 303-908-1900 (cell)
Tabatha Ratliff
trgottago@aol.com 303-908-6518 (cell)
303-536-9500 (Office) 1. Located just 4 miles east of I-76 on Bromley Lane. This beautiful 3 bdrm, 2.5 bath, 1,545 sq ft ranch style home with unfinished bsmt sits on 43+ acres. Set up with lean too barns and fencing for horses. Fantastic views of Front Range Mountains. Beautiful wood and tile flooring, open concept w/ vaulted ceilings. The oversized 2 car garage makes a wonderful man cave. Located on a paved road for easy access. Brighton $599,000 2. This older home has a beautiful addition that includes a large family room and master bedroom. Great location with easy access to Highway 36. 3 bdrm, 2 bath, 1,582 sq ft ranch-style home, Westminster $168,000 3. Beautiful open concept home with open family room and kitchen with a wall of windows and fireplace. 5 bdrm, 5 bath, 3,075 sq ft two-story home with unfinished bsmt, 3 car attached garage, community pool, corner lot, Broomfield $525,000 4. Possible Commercial Lot – Currently has 4 bdrm, 2 bath, 2,520 sq ft raised ranch, full walk-out bsmt home, 5.84 acres with Quonset Hut and shop, Brighton $1,000,000 5. 4 bdrm, 2 bath, 1,645 sq ft tri-level with bsmt, new carpet and interior paint, 2 car attached garage, Thornton $209,900 6. 3 bdrm, 1 bath, 1,014 sq ft ranch-style home with partially finished bsmt, new carpet and interior paint, Thornton $169,900 7. 3 bdrm, 2 bath, 1,833 sq ft two-story townhome with partially finished bsmt, new carpet and interior paint, Thornton $199,900 8. 3 bdrm, 2 bath, 1,568 sq ft ranch-style modular home on a leased lot, new carpet and interior paint, Frederick $109,900
Delaina Moore and Michael Jensen
Tannah Powell and Micah Angle
Jessica Beach
Molly McGee
Faithful Grooming LLC Grooming, Training, Pet Sitting, Boarding Fully Insured and Licensed
Sherry L. Reis
Big or Small, I’ll Groom Them All!! 29825 WRC 398 • Keenesburg, CO Home 303-732-4159 • Office 720-203-3583 countrypuppyluv04@yahoo.com
Page 8
Lost Creek Guide
LETTER TO THE EDITOR Cynthia Coffman to Run Colorado Attorney General
Cynthia Coffman currently serves as Colorado’s Chief Deputy Attorney General. She is running for Attorney General to defend Colorado’s Constitution and the rule of law. Cynthia has 23 years of experience as a practicing attorney. She moved to Colorado in 1997 and went to work for the Colorado General Assembly’s Senate Judiciary Committee. There she met her future husband, Mike Coffman, who was a state senator. On the campaign trail, Cynthia tells the story of leaving her job with the legislature and joining a law firm so Mike and she could date without violating ethics rules. The two married in 2005 shortly before Mike deployed to Iraq with the Marine Corps. Cynthia’s legal career exemplifies her commitment to upholding Colorado’s Constitution and laws. In 1999, Cynthia went to work for Jane Norton, who was appointed to head the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment. Together, Ms. Norton and Cynthia enforced Colorado’s constitutional prohibition on using government monies to directly or indirectly fund abortion, a law ignored by two decades of Democrat administrations. Five years later, when she was appointed as Chief Legal Counsel to Gov. Bill Owens, Cynthia defended the constitution’s Taxpayer Bill of Rights. And now, as Chief Deputy Attorney General, Cynthia regularly fights to preserve our state sovereignty and individual liberties. She highlights the 2010 case in which the Colorado Attorney General’s Office and other Republican attorneys general challenged Obamacare as a violation of state’s rights. It is the Obama administration’s disregard of the U.S. Constitution that motivates Cynthia to run for Attorney General. She sees the federal government’s overreaching as a threat to all Coloradans. The Environmental Protection Agency’s regulations are slowing down energy development at the same time that local activists are trying to stop fracking. Cynthia wants to be a strong voice for the rule of law so Colorado can continue to develop its oil and gas reserves. Cynthia’s passions include safeguarding Colorado’s children. She is a nationally recognized expert on school safety and says keeping kids safe at school allows them to learn better and enjoy being children. Cynthia is on the board of Safe2Tell, an organization that provides Colorado students the ability to report threats to themselves or their classmates via anonymous tips. She promises to expand her work on behalf of our children as the next Attorney General. Cynthia looks forward to leading the office she knows and loves. Cynthia Coffman
Join Us!
APRIL 16, 2014 ADams County Fairgrounds 4:30 - 6:30 pm
Registration, Dinner & entertainment
6:30 - 8:00 pm
Business Meeting, director election results, 75th anniversary Celebration & Prizes!
scan with smartphone or visit www.unitedpower.com for MORE INFO
Fabulous Prizes!
Registered members MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN
ATTEND FOR A CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF THEse PRIZES...AND MORE!
March 15, 2014
Protect Your Heirs!
Michael A. Dolan, Attorney and Counselor at Law Estate planning is more than avoiding probate and saving taxes. A properly designed estate plan provides so much more to protect your family. Unfortunately, most of these protections are ignored in cookie-cutter form driven estate plans. For example…. When Bill and Jane first learned of Bill’s illness they sought legal advice. The first lawyer they spoke with said they did not need estate planning. He told them to put everything in joint tenancy, because “it is simple and avoids probate.” They weren’t comfortable with that advice, and sought guidance from a counseling-oriented attorney who took time to learn more about them, their estate, and their goals. Bill’s primary objective was to protect Jane after he died and make sure she had the resources she needed to be secure. Under Bill’s plan, upon his death, their savings, his life insurance and the home would be put in trust. This would protect the assets from a potential predator and help protect her own assets as well. After Bill’s death, Jane finally got back in stride. The volunteer work she started to keep her mind off her loss had become a fulfilling passion. She met a lot of new people, including David. They connected immediately, and she soon found herself head over heels in love. He proposed. She accepted. Her family noticed that he suddenly took a keen interest in her finances. Blindly in love, she did not notice that anything was out of the ordinary. Bill’s plan left his assets in trust for Jane. A requirement of receiving benefits was that she obtain a prenuptial agreement to protect her assets upon remarriage. While the assets Bill left her were already protected, she also needed to take action to protect her own assets or she would lose any benefit of the assets Bill left her. David was enraged when she told him that she was required to have a prenuptial agreement preserving the assets for her children. Realizing that half of the assets were held in trust, and that a prenup would prevent him from receiving the balance upon her death, David sadly lost interest in Jane. While Jane was sad, she also had a comforting feeling that Bill was still protecting her even after his death. Jane had sometimes wondered if the planning she and Bill did was worth the effort. All doubts were now gone.
March 15, 2014
Morgan County 4-H Robotics Team Win Inspire Award, Qualify for Regional Tournament
The North Eastern Colorado (NECO) Roboknights, a Morgan County Robotics 4-H Team, competed in the Colorado FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science) FTC Tournament at the end of February held at the Resurrection Christian School in Loveland. The 4-H team is one of only four teams out of the 30 state finalists who will advance to the Super Regionals which will be held in McClellan, California on March 20-22. The team advances because they won the “FTC Inspire Award”. Team members are Caleb Christensen, Malea Koenig, Jessie McDonald, Luke Rhode, and William Schneider. They are coached by Gary Geisick and Allan Koenig. Michelle Christensen and Windy Sawall are team mentors. The “Inspire Award” is given to the team that truly embodied the “challenge” of the FTC program. It is the team having best represented a “role model FTC Team”. The team is a top contender for all other judging categories and is a strong competitor on the field. The Inspire Award Winner is an inspiration to other teams acting with “Gracious Professionalism” both on and off the playing field. This team understands how to communicate their experiences and knowledge to other teams, sponsors and the judges. Morgan County 4-H members can participate in different levels of robotics including FLL, FTC, and FRC. The FTC or FIRST Tech Challenge is a mid-level robotics competition principally for youth in grades 7 – 12. Teams of up to 10 youth are responsible for designing, building and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams. The robot kit is reusable and is programmed using a variety of languages. Teams, including coaches, mentors and volunteers, are required to develop strategy and build robots based on sound engineering principles. Awards are given for the competition as well as for community outreach, design, and other real-world accomplishments. The Morgan County 4-H Robotics Teams are seeking sponsorship from local individuals and businesses as they prepare for their regional competition. Winners at the competition in California qualify to attend the World Championship held in April in St. Louis, Missouri.
Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture Showcases State and International Consumer Preferences
The 2014 Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture, held yesterday in Denver, provided an exploration of consumer preferences with live focus groups and insights into international trade trends. The Forum, an annual event highlighting trends in Colorado agriculture, was themed «Farm to Table: What do Consumers Really Want?» That theme took various forms, including perspectives from Governor John Hickenlooper and Commissioner of Agriculture John Salazar on the driving forces of agriculture in the state, as well as insights into the minds of Colorado consumers from Colorado State University economic experts. “Colorado consumers appreciate the work of our state’s producers, and that came through in the day’s discussions,” said Salazar. “We are proud of our farm families who contribute more than $40 billion a year to the state›s economy, and we›re glad to see that Colorado›s citizens care about buying from our local producers.” The keynote speaker at the Forum, Director Keith Schneller of the U.S. Agricultural Trade Office in Shanghai, China, provided an international perspective on consumer preferences. «There are emerging opportunities for Colorado food products in the e-commerce marketplace in China,» Schneller said after the event. «Chinese consumers recognize that American producers create quality products, and we are excited to take advantage of these revolutionary new online opportunities.» In addition to the international perspective provided at the event, attendees got a close look at consumer preferences from the statewide and countywide perspective with research presented by CSU experts, Professor Dawn ThilmanyMcFadden and Extension Agent Adrian Card.
Page 9
Lost Creek Guide
Main Street Insurance
Janet Huck Agent/Owner 20 Years Experience Local Agent • Personal Service
of Keenesburg
A u t o - H o m e - C o m m e rc i a l - F a r m 1 0 0 S o u t h M a i n S t re e t • K e e n e s b u r g
303-732-4608
Page 10
Lost Creek Guide
March 15, 2014
Dave Rose Announces His Candidacy for United Power Board
Lower 48 states shale plays Montana Thrust Belt
Niobrara*
Bakken***
Heath**
Cody
Williston Basin
Big Horn Powder River Gammon Basin Basin HilliardMowry BaxterMancos Greater Green Niobrara* River Park Basin Basin
Michigan Basin Forest City Basin
Uinta Basin
San Joaquin Basin MontereyTemblor
Monterey Santa Maria, Ventura, Los Angeles Basins
Manning Canyon Mancos
Piceance Basin
Denver Basin
Hermosa Paradox Basin Lewis
Pierre
San Juan Basin
Woodford
Permian Basin
Marfa Basin
Devonian (Ohio)
Barnett Ft. Worth Basin
Eagle Ford Pearsall Western Gulf
Marcellus
Illinois Basin
ExcelloMulky Cherokee Platform
Anadarko ArdBasin m Palo Duro Bend ore Ba sin Basin
AvalonBone Spring BarnettWoodford
Raton Basin
Appalachian Basin
Antrim
New Albany
Fayetteville Arkoma Basin
Utica
Chattanooga
Black Warrior Basin
Conasauga
FloydValley & Ridge Neal Province TX-LA-MS Salt Basin Tuscaloosa
HaynesvilleBossier Shale plays
Miles 0
100
200
300 400
±
Basins Basins
Current plays Prospective plays Stacked plays Shallowest/ youngest Intermediate depth/ age Deepest/ oldest
* Mixed shale & chalk play ** Mixed shale & limestone play ***Mixed shale & tight dolostonesiltstone-sandstone
Source: Energy Information Administration based on data from various published studies. Updated: May 9, 2011
AGPROfessionals Named as Finalist for 2014 BBB® Torch Awards for Ethics
AGPROfessionals, a full-service agricultural development company, has been named a finalist for the 2014 Better Business Bureau Torch Awards for Ethics. Winners will be announced at the April 30 ceremony at the Lincoln Center in Fort Collins. Tom Haren, CEO of AGPROfessionals, started the company in 2000. With offices located in Greeley, CO and Fallon, NV, AGPROfessionals provides relocation, real estate, engineering, surveying, environmental, and land use consulting for the agriculture industry across the U.S. BBB Torch Awards, a program of the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust’s Center for Character Ethics, recognizes businesses that demonstrate exemplary business ethics as evaluated by the six TRUST principles of Ethical Enterprising. Peers, colleagues and customers nominate businesses for the award and entries were prepared by business students from the University of Northern Colorado, Colorado State University and the University of Wyoming. An independent panel of judges selects the winners. AGPROfessionals is located at 3050 67th Avenue, Greeley, CO. For further information on services, please call 970-535-9318 or visit www.agpros.com.
Support our Advertisers
Brighton community activist Dave Rose has announced his candidacy for the United Power Board of Directors vacancy in the South District. Dave has lived, worked and raised his family in Brighton for 37 years and has been a very satisfied customer of United Power during those years. Also during this time he served as an elementary principal in the Brighton Public Schools, as an elected official in the capacity of a city councilman, Mayor, Home Rule Commissioner and RTD Board of Directors. Currently Dave is serving on many boards and commissions at the local and state level. Dave is a charter member of the Brighton Urban Renewal Authority, an assistant secretary with Almost Home Affordable Housing Board of Directors, and a State Commissioner on the Elected County Officials Salary Commission. He also stays active in the United Presbyterian Church, the Brighton Kiwanis Club and the Riverdale Senior Golf League when he is not involved in family activities. As a Director on the United Power Board of Directors Dave will apply his past administrative experiences and work hard to maintain safe, reliable and affordable energy for home owners and businesses. Maintaining a common sense and balanced approach in sustaining a healthy economy and a healthy environment would also be a major priority for Dave as a board member. Dave urges all members to return their ballots promptly or vote in person at the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, April 16th – 5:00 pm. At the Waymire Dome – Adams County Fairgrounds 9755 Henderson Road – Brighton. Dave also would appreciate your vote and feel free to call him at 303-659- 3639 for any questions, concerns or input so he can keep the customers best interests in mind.
Auto • Home • Life Business • Farm
Mark Kinnear, Agent 20 So Main St, PO Box 401 Keenesburg, CO 80643
303-732-9700
kinnearinsurance@outlook.com Auto • Home • Life • Business • Farm
New Name, Better Rates, Same Great Service!
March 15, 2014
Page 11
Lost Creek Guide
Ceretto Family Proud to Call Ft. Lupton Their Home
Ft. Lupton has been good to the Ceretto family and, in return, the Ceretto family has been good to the community of Ft. Lupton. The family moved to Colorado from Rock Springs in the 20’s to work in the coal mines. After a family member was killed in the mines, Ron Ceretto’ s father decided it was time find something else to do. He started working at a hardware store for Don Mason, then ran the gas station for Don. Ron Ceretto was nine years old when his dad opened Bob’s Super Service , just down the road from where the present day R&M Services is located at 622 1st Street . . It was 1947. Ron helped his dad, until he went off to college. “When I came home for college dad asked if I could help for awhile,” said Ron. That “little while” turned into a lifetime and three generations later the business is still in the family. Ron’s son Mike, and Mike’s sons, Chris and Corey run and operate the business that specializes in general auto repair, exhaust systems, oil changes, brakes, shocks, tuneups, fuel pumps, and diagnostics. Although Ron Mike, Corey, Chris, and Ron Ceretto of R&M Services Ceretto and his all call Ft. Lupton home. wife enjoy traveling, he’s never ventured too far from Ft. Lupton, the community they’ve grown to love and serve.”Never saw anything better than right here,” Ron said. Ron was born on 2nd Street, lives on 3rd Street, can see the shop on 1st Street from where he lives. Ron chuckles, because his wife often teases him about the assisted living being on 4th street. The Ceretto’s have seen a lot of changes in their business and in the city Ft. Lupton. “Some good, some bad,” quipped Ron, “but mostly good. We’ve seen a lot of people come and go.” The original station was located just down the street from the present location on 1st Street. From 1958 to 85 they ran a Texaco station; then in 1985 when the oil companies were forcing the small guys out. “We were deciding what to do,” said Ron. “Then one day a gentleman showed up and helped us set up a muffler shop.” “I believe he was sent to us,” added Ron, “He helped us get the equipment, arrange for Mike to get training on exhaust systems; then we never saw him until our 50th anniversary when he showed up as a the jolly green giant. We’ve not seen him since.” Not only do the Ceretto’s pour their heart and soul into providing quality service to their customers at R&M Service, they feel it is important to give back to the commu-
nity that has served them well. Ron spent 27 years on the fire department, 23 as chief, and 23 years on the fire district board. Prior to that, Ron’s dad was instrumental in helping form the Ft. Lupton fire district which started as an all-volunteer fire department and has grown to include hired and volunteer firemen. Ron said he didn’t really know just how he got involved in the fire department, other than it just evolved from his dad’s participation. “Once you get involved, it gets in your blood,” he added. That blood not only flows through Ron, but his son and grand sons as well. Chris has served on the fire department for 12 years and Corey 10 years, 5 of which were volunteer and 5 of which are hired. The new Ft. Lupton fired station, which was built in 2004, was named the McPherson-Ceretto Fire Station in honor of both the McPherson and Ceretto family’s dedication to the district. “Both have been pivotal in forming the fire district and its continued service,” said Ron. Bob’s Super Service, the original station. In addition to the Ceretto’s service on the fire department, the family has shown generosity to the community in a variety of other ways. Mike has organized the Roll in Bike and Car Show for Trapper’s Days. From that activity, they started the Floyd E. Acre Scholarship for Ft. Lupton students, that is now a self sustaining fund. Through the Bike and Car Show Mike has helped provide funds for the Mini Blessings Day Care Center, the DARE program, a ranch for troubled teens, and other local programs. The family is active in their church and other local organization, including the Masons, the South Platte Historical Society and various City of Ft. Lupton committees.
Michael Bates & Associates, LLP
113 Central w PO Box 388, Wiggins, CO 80654
$
Accountants & Tax Specialists Michael Bates 970-381-8707
&
Ryan Anderson 970-518-7229
$
Office: 970-483--6467 FAX: 970-483-6477 email: bmasterjb@aol.com
Page 12
Lost Creek Guide
PROUDLY INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Questions about our operations in your community? Contact Community Relations at 866.589.9425
March 15, 2014
March 15, 2014
Open Primaries One Way to Counter Partisan Politics
Cont. from Page 1 — not those who are willing to solve our problems together. The latter is what makes a democracy thrive. If you look at Colorado’s recent history, we are an example of a state that can at times act as a bridge between parties and issues at cross purposes. And while not perfect, at least the leadership of strong pragmatists, well respected within their parties, has seen us resolve difficult issues. We cannot, though, count on the current class of leaders. We need systemic reform. Our founding fathers never intended to disenfranchise a huge segment of the voting public, namely the centrist one. In Colorado, independent voters — a full one-third of the electorate — are effectively disenfranchised and shut out of the process to select final candidates. Instead, the two final candidates are picked by partisan purists. This reality discourages many high quality centrist candidates from running for office in the first place. It’s difficult to dispute that the divisive nature of politics in the U.S. is preventing necessary work from getting done. Our system is also out of step with the changing face of American political parties. Since 2008, the number of independent voters has continued to grow significantly at the expense of the two major parties. A dysfunctional election system results in a dysfunctional government. Colorado’s system of “closed primaries” is an example of how our nation’s guiding principles of an inclusive democratic process have been hamstrung by policies that effectively restrict participation and divide the process. The state legislature debated the subject of closed primaries in 2011 in the form of legislation. A measure was introduced to allow unaffiliated or “independent” voters to cast a ballot in the state’s Republican and Democratic primaries, while still maintaining their independent status. It was offered as a way to extend participation in the democratic process to voters who might hold views that cross party lines. It was unceremoniously struck down by opponents in the legislature. Colorado, unfortunately, is not unique in its plight. Today, more than half of the states maintain a closed primary system. However, opportunities abound to move toward better governance and a system that promotes heterogeneity at the local level — allowing similar changes to thrive and flourish at a national level. Some argue that opening primaries to unaffiliated voters leaves parties vulnerable to dilution and manipulation, but there are practical solutions to addressing this argument, such as requiring independent voters to declare their intentions early to vote in one of the primaries and restricting members of the opposite party from casting votes. In addition, historical data show virtually no examples that support the alleged concerns in states that have had open primaries for years, while on the other hand, thousands of examples of the current system show disenfranchisement of centrist voters. Some claim that an open primary system would be inherently unconstitutional, because it would force them to allow outsiders to choose their candidates, thus violating their freedom of association. This is easily rebutted. No one is contesting the right of party members to associate, but the right to access a public ballot is a public good that can and should be structured to facilitate democracy. These arguments aside, it is incumbent upon policymakers to really evaluate the state of our government and the process by which we are arriving at the loggerheads found in the nation’s capital and capitals across this great country. Is doing nothing really an option? Opening primaries to independent voters is not only important to the prospect of electing an effective Congress, it’s also what our Founding Fathers would expect in the name of a representative democracy. With a burgeoning federal deficit and lawmakers seemingly unable to move past party ideology to implement change, it’s time that we take important steps toward better and more inclusive governance.
Teen Job Fair March 19 at Island Grove
March 10, 2014 (Greeley, CO) – The annual Teen Job Fair sponsored by the City of Greeley’s Youth Enrichment Division and Employment Services of Weld County will be held on Wednesday, March 19 from 3:30-6pm at Island Grove Regional Park Event Center, located at 525 North 15th Avenue in Greeley. The free event is offered to youth in the community ages 14-21 years old that are looking for summer employment. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit with City of Greeley Departments and local businesses during the fair. Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately, bring their resume and personal information with them, and be able to complete applications onsite at the exhibition. The Teen Job Fair is a popular annual event and well attended each year. Interested parties should plan to come early as there may be significant wait times and lines at booths. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to meet with potential employers. Attending the job fair just might land teens that perfect summer job! For more information about the event, please contact 970.350.9771 or 970.346.7983. Prior to the event, please register with the Colorado Workforce Center at www.connectcolorado.com
Support our Advertisers
Lost Creek Guide
We’re listening. The Praxis Group will be conducting telephone surveys in your community on Encana’s behalf. Your confidential feedback will help direct our communication and community programs in the future. For every survey that is completed, Encana will donate $5 to Energy Outreach Colorado to help provide home energy assistance to low-income Coloradans.
Questions or concerns? Wendy Wiedenbeck, Community Relations 866.896.6371 wendy.wiedenbeck@encana.com
encana.com
Page 13
Page 14
Lost Creek Guide
Zenergy, De-escalating the Fracking Wars
Introducing a Blog by COGA President & CEO Tisha Schuller
Excerpted from the Colorado Oil & Gas Association website: coga.org When your congressman takes out a full page ad against you in your hometown newspaper, it’s safe to say that things have gotten out of hand. (It was the letter shown in this blog.) As with most New Year’s Resolutions, this one is getting to a late start. I’m devoting my writing and speaking of 2014 to Zenergy. Zenergy? Hey, at least you read it here first. zen•er•gy /zen-rjē/ noun: zenergy 1. the strength and vitality required for sustained physical or mental activity attainable through contemplation, self-awareness, and meditation 2. appreciation for the power derived from the utilization of physical or chemical resources, esp. to provide light and heat or to work machines 3. a person’s calm and focused physical and mental powers, typically as applied to a particular task or activity So that’s just the definition of energy with some calming stuff in there. And that’s exactly what I propose here. Together we take 2014 and we disarm the fracking wars through calm, thoughtful, honest engagement. Not too long ago I avoided all references to war and use of war metaphors in my education and engagement work on oil and gas, but now I think it could be helpful to call a bayonet a bayonet. The simple truth of the matter is that we all use energy. We need energy. And whatever your vision for our energy future may include, at this moment, our real lives include a lot of petroleum. The fracking wars have gotten completely out of control and totally unproductive for everyone except the extremes. Most people I talk to want more information, but they want it presented in an unbiased way, from a reliable source. The fracking wars are about sound bites, scare tactics, and either-or framing of the issues. Both sides engage in this and I equally reject Ban Fracking and Drill Baby Drill. I think it’s a good practice to avoid generalizations of the parties involved in the fracking wars and to ignore conspiracy theories on both sides. However, it is useful to use this litmus test to identify who is part of the fracking wars and who will be part of a meaningful conversation about responsible energy development that can move us forward: are they more wedded to the fight than the solution? Are you more wedded to the fight than to finding resolution? It’s hard to admit, but it is easy to fall into the trap of an us-vs-them, high stakes framing of the oil and gas conversation. This 2014 blog is about identifying, noticing, and avoiding those traps so that collectively we can be part of the solution. A lot is at stake for all of us. Because access to energy is the building block for quality of life and basic prosperity, the fracking wars affect us all. And this blog is just step 1, and it’s a conversation. Send me your ideas, your guest blog on how we can all participate in changing the fracking wars to energy dialogue. Send your deescalation ideas to info@coga.org. This zenergy party is just getting started.
March 15, 2014
COGA Holds Iron Chef Competition for Charity
“The Colorado Oil & Gas Association held the 3rd Annual Iron Chef competition and charity benefit in Denver on January 16th. It is an oil and gas industry networking event that showcases a head-to-head culinary competition patterned after the popular television show. This year’s secret ingredient was pineapple, and the chef contestants were COGA Board Members John Harpole, President of Mercator Energy, and Richard Frommer, CEO of Great Western Oil and Gas. The competition was a mix of playful humor—including bribes to the judges, seriously good eats, and an industry brought together to benefit Arrupe Jesuit High School. Over $2,100 was raised for Arrupe Jesuit through sponsorships from Xcel Energy, CH2M Hill, and the Curtis Hotel, as well as donations from individual COGA members and event attendees. Arrupe Jesuit serves economically disadvantaged students from Denver’s inner-city neighborhoods and provides a quality college prep curriculum, partnered with an exemplary Corporate Work Study Program.”
Specializing in custom mixes for Pasture - Reclamation - CRP
Call for a dealer in your area 800.421.4234 101 East 4th St. Rd., Greeley CO
March 15, 2014
Page 15
Lost Creek Guide
Anadarko is producing energy resources vital to the Rockies. We are proud to be a part of the great Utah communities where we live and operate.
Anadarko is safely and responsibly producing energy resources vital to the Rockies. We are proud to operate in and be a part of the great Colorado communities where we live and operate.
www.anadarko.com
Page 16
Lost Creek Guide
The Basics: Well to Wheel
March 15, 2014
Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Natural Gas Vehicles
Excerpted from the Colorado Oil & Gas Association website: coga.org As the U.S. moves towards a lower carbon future, natural gas vehicle (NGV) demand is increasing, offering multiple benefits to the environment. One of the largest advantages of natural gas vehicles is the reduction in greenhouse gasses emitted from its start at the well all the way to the wheel of the car. Multiple studies have detailed the reduction in greenhouse gasses from well to wheel, comparing traditional burning fuels to a variety of natural gas vehicles.1 A study performed by the California Energy Commission broke down the emissions reduction from passenger cars and heavy duty vehicles powered by natural gas. Table 1: NGV Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction From Traditional Fuel
A critical component for natural gas vehicles to achieve greenhouse gas benefits is ensuring that methane (natural gas) leaks associated with the production of oil and gas are minimized. A common misconception that has casted doubt on natural gas as a viable automobile fuel source, are a few studies that attempt to demonstrate high leakage rates from oil and gas production, which would offset any benefit from burning it. However a major recent study performed by the Environmental Defense Fund and the University of Texas, with the cooperation of the oil and gas industry, determined a leakage rate of 1.5% of methane produced is lost from developing the resource. This is adequately below the threshold required for natural gas to achieve climate benefits. These measurements are also comparable to EPA’s estimates for methane leaked at approximately 1.5%.2 In addition to these two assessments, numerous other studies have demonstrated that the extraction of natural gas from shale formations achieves climate benefits: • University of Maryland – December 2011 – “…we have demonstrated that the fugitive emissions from the drilling process are very likely not substantially higher than for conventional gas. …the greenhouse footprint of shale gas and other unconventional gas resources is about 11% higher than that of conventional gas for electricity generation, and still 56% that of coal.” • Massachusetts Institute of Technology – November 2012 – “…it is incorrect to suggest that shale gas-related hydraulic fracturing has substantially altered the overall GHG intensity of natural gas production.” • Cornell University – June 2011 – “Using more reasonable leakage rates and bases of comparison, shale gas has a GHG footprint that is half and perhaps a third that of coal.” • National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL)/DOE – October 2011 – “Natural gas-fired baseload power production has life cycle greenhouse gas emissions 42 to 53 percent lower than those for coal-fired baseload electricity.” • NREL/Joint Institute for Strategic Energy Analysis (NREL) – 2011 – “Based on analysis of more than 16,000 sources of air-pollutant emissions reported in a state inventory of upstream and midstream natural gas industry, life cycle greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity generated from Barnett Shale gas extracted in 2009 were found to be very similar to conventional natural gas and less than half those of coalfired electricity generation.” The oil and gas industry is usually divided into three major sectors: upstream, midstream, and downstream. The upstream oil sector, also commonly known as the exploration and production (E&P) sector, generate emissions known as “upstream emissions”. These are the greenhouse gas emissions generated from fuel and vehicle production, i.e. getting the fuel to the fuel station, and in manufacturing and assembling a vehicle.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) & Natural Gas Vehicles (NGV) All-electric vehicles (EVs) depend on electricity. They are propelled by an electric motor (or motors) powered only by rechargeable battery packs that must be plugged into an existing electrical grid. While it is known that natural gas vehicles emit less than traditional gasoline burning engines, they also rank closely--if not lower in some cases--than electric vehicles. This is due to the emissions from generating electricity for EVs. Table 1 compares the 2013 versions of Honda’s compressed natural gas-powered Honda Civic, Chevrolet’s 2013 Volt, and Nissan’s 2013 Leaf. After factoring in upstream emissions from oil and gas development, the Honda Civic emits slightly higher emissions than both the Volt and Leaf. When upstream emissions from oil and gas development are factored into the total CNG greenhouse gas emission rate, the Honda Civic emits slightly higher emissions than both the Volt and Leaf. Table 2: CNG & EV Annual Greenhouse Gas Emissions
* Assumes 15,000 miles/year traveled, factoring in carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and methane.
Upstream Considerations & Others While upstream emissions are factored into the Honda Civic (Table 2), most of the comparable exploration and production emission rates related to EVs are not factored in for both the Volt and the Leaf. This would include emissions due to electricity generation and emissions from mining materials to produce rare earth minerals for renewable products, like batteries. It should also be noted that as the vehicle size increases, the efficiency in miles per kilowatt hour significantly drops for electric vehicles, thus raising their grams of greenhouse gasses emitted per mile. Table 3: Upstream Considerations
Making Sense It has always been known that natural gas is the cleanest burning fuel, and evidence from numerous scientific studies affirms low upstream emissions rates so we can all breathe easier. With the significant growth in production of natural gas in the United States, the use of natural gas vehicles makes sense from not only an economic perspective, but also one from an environmental one. NGV’s have significantly reduced emissions across all pollutants and are on par with electric vehicles, if not better when factoring in lifecycle emissions.
Classifieds Work Contact us at
Editor@lostcreekguide.com
303-732-4080
HIGH PLAINS ENGINEERING & DESIGN, LLC
Specializing in: •Soil & Percolation Testing •Commercial & Residential Foundation & Structural Design • Inspection Services • House Plans • Site Maps • Pole Barn Design • Grading & Drainage Plans
Call for a Free Quote Today!
303-857-9280 Fax 303-857-9238
Wiggins Electric
P.O. Box 26 - 105 Karen Street, Wiggins, CO 80654
Office: 970-483-6305
721-4th St., Suite D Fort Lupton
todds@hpedesign.com
March 15, 2014
Colorado Oil & Gas Conservation Commission Update on Colorado Flood Response
Excerpted from the Colorado Oil & Gas Conservation Commission website: cogcc.state.co.us The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission continues it’s vigorous response to the September 2013 floods along the Front Range of Colorado. It continues to support the oil and gas industry’s recovery in flooded areas. It also continues to oversee the full cleanup of oil and gas materials spilled by the flood waters. In anticipation of the floods, more than 2,650 wells were shut-in by the industry and taken out of production. As of January 9, 2014, 82 percent of these wells are back in production. Commission inspectors and engineers have completed a full inspection or evaluation of every well in the areas most effected by the flood waters. This has been a large and complex task. The Commission has completed more than 3,100 individual inspections and evaluations related to the floods. These inspections and evaluations mean that Commission personnel have visited and examined every well and tank battery in the flood’s impact zone. For this reason, the Commission staff is confident that it understands the impacts of the September floods upon the oil and gas industry and the Commission’s work. The cleanup and safe repair of oil and gas facilities damaged by flood waters and debris continues under close Commission oversight. Forty-three oil and gas facilities experienced spills of oil and gas materials in volumes requiring reporting to the Commission. Each of these spill sights was rapidly cleaned of any visible residues of spillage. Indeed, flood waters washed away spilled materials in most instances and left no visible reside. Operators are now testing and sampling to assure that no other resides remain, and they will report to the Commission the results of that cleanup work. The Commission will then confirm the cleanup to be complete. Cleanup at one such site has been fully completed. The Commission expects fully completed cleanups at the great majority of these 43 sites over the next few months. Finally, the Commission is organizing a workshop to discuss “Lessons Learned” from the September floods. The public and all the interested persons will be invited to participate. These lessons will translate into better and more resilient oil and gas operations across Colorado. For additional details on COGCC’s flood response efforts, please refer to the previous Staff Reports (available online at www.cogcc.state.co.us). Links to recommendations for the public, and requirements for operators on dealing with flood-impacted facilities are available under the HOT TOPICS banner on the website.
Draft Policy on the Use of Modular Large Volume Storage Tanks
Excerpted from the Colorado Oil & Gas Conservation Commission website: cogcc.state.co.us Modular Large Volume Storage Tanks (“MLVST”) are above-ground tanks typically comprised of a free-standing steel structure with a synthetic liner draped inside to hold fluid. MLVST are capable of storing up to 50,000 barrels or more of water for well completion and are being used in lieu of historic in-ground pits or multiple small volume tanks. The benefit to the use of these tanks include cost savings, time savings, and a reduction in trips needed for setup and breakdown. This policy is being developed in response to the recent and increasing use of MLVST to hold large volumes of fresh water typically associated with new well completions and to provide guidance to Operators who utilize MLVST. A stakeholder meeting was held on January 15, 2014 to discuss the use of the MLVST. To review the draft policy or for more information, go to the COGSS website at www.cogcc.state.co.us under HOT TOPICS.
Page 17
Lost Creek Guide
Cardinal Community Academy Fourth Grade Students Receive Awards
Winners of the Weld County 2013-14 Essay & Artwork Contest sponsored by Family and Community Education (FCE) Association of Colorado were honored recently at Cardinal Community Academy in Keenesburg. Fourth grade students were eligible to participate in this contest by writing an essay on the theme “Respect” along with a pencil drawing pertaining to their essay. All fifteen students in Ms. Tammy Kester’s class were recognized at the all-school assembly on February 26. First place winner was Wyatt Hardee, second place winner was Tessa Koehn and third place winner was Hannah Fletcher. The top three entries received cash awards of $15, $10 and $5 respectively. All participants received a certificate of achievement. The theme is selected each year from one of the “Six Pillars of Character”, a program funded by the Josephine Institute. The purpose of the Essay and Artwork Contest is to promote FCE’s literacy program, CHARACTER COUNTS! Students are encouraged to understand and practice one of the six pillars of character and be creative in writing and drawing skills.
Homestead Grange Annual Pancake Breakfast April 13, 2014
7:30 - 11 a.m.
Adults $7.00 Children 6-10 $4.00 Children Under 6 FREE
Page 18
Lost Creek Guide
March 15, 2014
Gardner Introduces Natural Gas Legislation amid Ukraine Crisis
Bill would meet regional demand, boost local economy
from the Colorado Oil & Gas Association website: coga.org
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Rep. Cory Gardner (CO-4) introduced legislation to speed up the approval process for Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) exports. H.R. 6, The Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act, would facilitate the accelerated approval of LNG export applications that are currently under review by the Department of Energy (DOE). This legislation comes amid aggressive Russian expansion in the wake of political turmoil in Ukraine. As the world’s largest exporter of natural gas, Russia has significant control of the resource that European nations depend on to heat their homes and power their industries. Much of Russia’s natural gas supply flows through pipelines across Ukraine. “President Putin and the Russian regime are using their dominance of the European natural gas market to flex their muscles and expand their influence,” said Gardner. “European nations are clamoring for a resource that is abundant in Colorado, but current law restricts our ability to sell it to them. This bill allows America to meet the needs of our allies, while creating economic opportunity and good jobs here in Colorado.” Gardner’s bill would facilitate the speedy approval of all applications currently pending with the DOE. Similar legislation has been proposed in the Senate, though observers note that the Senate bill could require companies with existing applications to have to re-file, causing further delays and filing burdens. Colorado has seen an energy boom in recent years, due in part to natural gas extracted through hydraulic fracturing. The resulting economic growth has created thousands of jobs in Colorado’s energy sector and contributed millions of dollars to Colorado’s economy.
March 15, 2014
Lost Creek Guide
Celebrating the Centennial of the Lazy S over S Ranch, Briggsdale
By Sandy Magnuson On March 18th, 1914, a young couple was married in the bride’s home near Groveland, Kansas. The bride kissed her husband good bye a few days later as he boarded a boxcar filled with livestock and provisions for their new life in Colorado. They reunited on April 6th, and established their home on 160 homesteaded acres west of Briggsdale, Colorado. One hundred years later, their descendants and friends celebrate the Centennial of the Lazy S over S Ranch and honor Elmer P. and Henrietta (Etta) Wendt Ball. Elmer and Etta left the story of their developing love in albums of beautiful postcards, mailed with one-cent stamps. October 20, 1909. Elmer wrote, “Dear Friend--Received your card on Monday. Many thanks for it. . . . Was glad to hear you had a good time at S. S. . . . I have a compliment for you.” (Apparently the compliment was savored until their next meeting.) November 9, 1910. Elmer transparently wrote: “Kind Friend, How are you? I had a safe journey out here last night. Reached here 11:30. . . . I certainly enjoyed myself last night. It was fine. . . . I washed the wheels of my buggy today. It reminded me of last night.” In October, 1912, Elmer wrote “Since I have given up the exam it will suit me ok to go to the dinner Sunday if you can go. Louise told me about seeing us and you can guess the rest.” Others noticed the couple’s affection by October 13, 1913, when Elmer wrote, “Hello. How are you? . . . Am getting teased some and was asked to explain how it was that you came along. I said it was because you were related to Leana. Ha. Wishing you a bright and happy week. I remain As Ever, EPB.” In addition to exchanging cards, Elmer and Etta captured moments alone when Elmer escorted Etta to and from activities with his horse and buggy. He preferred the “sweetest way home,” which was also the longest way home. Elmer must have known that Etta was the right woman to share his dream of homesteading on a new frontier in Colorado. She could sew, bake bread, launder clothes, churn butter, make soap, and butcher. She knew how to garden and care for livestock. Etta and Elmer prepared to make their dream come true. Etta stitched pieces of fabric into beautiful quilts. She sewed delicate table cloths and other linens. She collected utensils and dishes. Elmer taught school to save money, honed his farming skills, and acquired horses and mules. After Elmer’s fourth year of teaching concluded, friends helped load a team of mules, two work horses, a saddle horse, two range cows, a milk cow, and three dozen laying hens in a railroad box car. He also traveled with a walking hand plow, harrow, grain-bed wagon, and 100 fence posts in addition to furniture and Etta’s organ. Their wedding was on March 18, 1914. Elmer traveled to Colorado in the boxcar with the livestock. Etta left Kansas one week later on a passenger train, carrying her suitcase and a basket filled with plant slips and homemade butter. Their story was romantic. Yet hard work awaited them. They butchered livestock without power equipment. Etta did laundry with a washboard and galvanized tub. She gardened, preserved food in canning jars, and buried produce in straw beds. She tended the livestock and homestead for an entire month while Elmer completed requirements at Colorado A & M College so he could supplement their income by teaching in Colorado. Yet, Etta did not complain. She enjoyed simple pleasures like making butter with her crockery churn and wooden dasher on the west side of the house. She churned with full view of the mountains while sitting in a rocking chair given to her by neighbors, Mike and Louie Gilney. One hundred years later, Leonard and Tammie Ball are proud of their antique cream can inscribed with “Louie Gilney, Briggsdale, CO.” After months of hard work, Elmer and Etta sometimes watched hail storms destroy their harvest. They persisted when grasshoppers devoured crops, army worms invaded their land,
Page 19
and wind eroded their drought-parched soil. Their faith, tenacity, and commitment carried them through volatile markets, the Dust Bowl, and the Great Depression. As Etta later wrote, “We had planned, prayed, and were determined to make this our little grey home in the West.” Elmer and Etta’s commitment extended beyond their family and ranch. Elmer was an active member in many community and county organizations such as the Crow Valley Cooperative Livestock Association, Production Credit Association, Roosevelt National Forest Advisory Council, Briggsdale Telephone Company, Briggsdale Public Schools Board of Education, and Briggsdale Baptist Church. Although Etta was responsible primarily for household chores, she also cared for the chickens, milked the cows, and worked alongside Elmer. She was devoted to her children and her neighborhood friends. As a member of the Cancer Sewing Club for 19 years, Etta sewed and donated over 25,000 items. When Elmer passed away in 1959, he and Etta had developed the ranch and a sizable herd of cattle. Their two room house had grown to two stories. Etta continued to live on the ranch until she joined Elmer in 1971. Elmer and Etta were parents of eight sons and daughters -- Erma (1915), Elaine (1918), Ralph (1920), Wilbur (1923), Wayne (1925), Merietta (1928), Roland (1930), and Harriett (1932). Erma Rich lives in California. Wayne and Juanita are in Greeley. Merietta and Andy West live near Briggsdale. Roland and Verda raised cattle and crops on the Lazy S over S Ranch for decades. Their son and daughter-in-law, Leonard and Tammy, continue to operate the ranch. Etta and Elmer’s legacy is one of inspiration and example. Their devotion to one another and the Lazy S over S Ranch was beyond question. They consistently demonstrated commitment to their faith, sons and daughters, neighbors, church, and community. Join the Ball family in honoring the centennial of Etta and Elmer Ball’s wedding and the Lazy S over S Ranch. Note: Wilbur Ball wrote many articles and books about the Ball family and Weld County history. Buggy Trails is available through the High Plains Library District.
— Obituary — JERRY M. GYRION
Making a difference
Jerry M. Gyrion of Hudson passed away March 3, 2014 at the age of 69. He is survived by his wife Barbara Gyrion, children Robin Clark, Jerry Gyrion Jr., Crystal Evans, 11 grand children, and four great grand children. He loved to spend time with his family, paint and work. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
in the lives of others
Proudly serving the Citizens of Erie and the surrounding communities of Niwot, Dacono, and Mead.
Visit us at www.mvfpd.org
9119 East County Line Road Longmont, CO 80501
303-772-0710
and Join us on and For Emergency Notices, Newsletters, safety awareness, Classes, tours and Events
Page 20
Lost Creek Guide
March 15, 2014
Stub’s Gas and Oil Celebrates 65 Years of Business in Wiggins Area
Stub’s Gas and Oil has been a mainstay in the Wiggins area for 65 years and on March 21 and 22, the Roberts family invites you to stop by the station at 16740 Hwy. 39, Wiggins to celebrate. There will be 50 cent hamburgers on March 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 50 cent hotdogs on March 22. ,Coffee and cookies are free on both days. There will be a drawing at Stub’s on Saturday, March 22 for a $500 gift certificate and drawings for giveaways from several of their vendors. Clyde “Stub” Roberts opened his first station and liquor store in Wiggins 1949 on the corner of Main and Central, while his wife, Josephine ran a boarding house/hotel in what became fondly known as the Pink Palace because of its pink color. “At that time, none of the vendors would service them,” daughter and current owner Judy recalls. “They drove to Denver to get what they needed and mom (Jo) made their own ice in old milk cartons.” “We did what we had to do,” the 96 year old Josephine stated, who not only was helping at the station, but raising five children! As the business grew, Stub found it necessary to The Roberts family: Steve Klecka, Josephine Roberts, Judy purchase a larger station, Roberts, and Janet Roberts continue the family legacy, just a block down the road known as Stub’s Gas and Oil. They invite you to stop by from the original station. At the station on Friday & Saturday, March 21 and 22 to help that time they also started a fuel delivery service to celebrate 65 years in business. farmers. Jo recalls Stub going back east to get an old delivery truck to use in the business, while she stayed home to run the station. “We just did what we had to do,” she again quipped. “I just jumped in and helped where I needed to.” The station started with two service bays and by 1970 they had added two more bays. The station began to see a decline in business as the road changed and traffic
through Wiggins was eventually diverted to the new 4-lane I-76. An opportunity to purchase some property east of Wiggins presented itself and “Stub jumped at the new opportunities. “People told us we were fools to move out there,” Jo said. But the business grew in leaps and bounds and has been at the present site since 1972. They started with a five pump station, small convenience store, and the liquor store. They now have 19 pumps. They sell E-85 fuel and fill propane bottles. They added a deli to the convenience store. Stub’s Gas and Oil takes all major credit cards for trucks and other vehicles. During a busy summer month it’s Stub Roberts, during the grand opening of the possible the station will service about station on Central Ave. in Wiggins in 1954. 40,000 customers, who herald from all over. Some very famous folks, such as country singer Dierks Bentley and Rep. Cory Gardner have been recent stop-ins. The business started with Stub and Josephine, family members and a few employees to the present day of 22 employees. Mary Dilka has been at the station for 26 years and Stella Garay for 20. Stub worked at the station until about three days before he died in 1989. Josephine still continues to drop by the station on “at least” a weekly basis. What does the future hold? Manager Steven Klecka (Stub’s grandson) says that adding a truck wash, car wash, and showers for truck drivers are all future possibilities. Judy said she wanted people to know how much the family and employees appreciate the business that residents and travelers have brought to the store. Josephine will be on hand Saturday afternoon to do the drawing.
March 15, 2014
Page 21
Lost Creek Guide
Growth in U.S. Hydrocarbon Production from Shale Resources Driven by Drilling Efficiency
DPR data show that each drilling rig in the Eagle Ford Shale will contribute over 400 barrels of oil per day (bbl/d) more in April 2014 than it would have in the same formation in January 2007. At the same time, the DPR also shows that a Marcellus Shale well completed by a rig in April 2014 can be expected to yield over 6 million cubic feet of natural gas per day (Mcf/d) more than a well completed by that rig in that formation in 2007. This trend of increasing rig productivity is one factor helping to increase the nation’s oil and natural gas production. The latest Annual Energy Outlook forecasts that U.S. oil production will reach 9.6 million barrels per day in 2019, and natural gas production will increase by 56% through 2040.
The productivity of oil and natural gas wells is steadily increasing in many basins across the United States because of the increasing precision and efficiency of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing in oil and natural gas extraction. Many resourceproducing basins are experiencing an increasing yield over time in either oil (Bakken, Eagle Ford, Niobrara) or natural gas (Marcellus, Haynesville). The geology of each oil and natural gas resource play is diverse, and individual rig or well performance can vary dramatically. However, drilling activity in U.S. shale plays is now generally producing greater quantities of oil and/or natural gas than in the past. As noted in March’s productivity report, five of the six U.S. shale plays tracked by the DPR have seen increases in oil and natural gas production per rig over the past few years. According to EIA’s March DPR, the Eagle Ford Shale is leading in increased production of oil per rig, and the Marcellus Shale is leading in increased production of natural gas per rig.
ECS can help you with all your forage & seed needs. ECS offers a wide-variety of high quality forages and distributes only the best brands.
PROSPECT
IMPLEMENT, INC. 33894 Hwy 52 • Keenesburg, CO
NEW EQUIPMENT
CRUSTBUSTER 875 BU. GRAIN CART . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK CRUSTBUSTER 4745 45X10 ALL PLANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK CRUSTBUSTER 1325 BU GRAIN CART . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK LOFTNESS 8X30 SHREDDER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK SUNFLOWER 3392-52 BLADE PLOW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK SF 1435-29FT OFFSET DISC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK MF 1532 TRACTOR W/LOADER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK MF 1759 TRACTOR W/LOADER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IN STOCK
USED EQUIPMENT
BUSHHOG 15 FT MOWER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9,500 HINIKER 6X30 SHREDDER/WINDROWER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$10,000 CRUSTBUSTER 30X12 SILVER DRILL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SOLD IHC 7100 41FT DRILL W/ TRANSPORTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,000 WIC 12X22 DEFOLIATOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SOLD MACDON 973 36’ HEADER W/JD ADAPTOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SOLD JOHN DEERE 30FT CULTIVATOR W/HARROWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . .SOLD JD 24FT 3PT CULTIVATOR W/HARROWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,600 CRUST BUSTER 40 X 12 TRASH SHANK DRILL . . . . . . . . . . . .$20,000
» CORN » SUNFLOWERS » GRASSES » OATS » WHEAT » TRITICALE » BARLEY » FORAGE SORGHUMS
866.655.7380 www.ECSeeds.com • Burlington, CO • Greeley, CO • Clovis, NM
Contact ECS today! 970.590.5058
303-732-4321
Jerrod Carlson
4839 West 1st Street • Greeley, CO 80634 www.ECSeeds.com
Page 22
Lost Creek Guide
March 15, 2014
Ft. Lupton Mayor Tommy Holton Encourages Citizens to Vote in Upcoming Elections
Another election season is upon us and we have a diverse range of candidates. In the primary races is going to be very interesting as to which leadership qualities are going to be chosen by the people. We even have several candidates that have chosen to petition on the ballot which takes much more time and effort, but is much more representative of the process than is the caucus system. The caucus lends itself to making relationships and lobbying for votes and does not give a clear vision of what the candidate stands for or for their leadership qualities. Leadership qualities are not merely voting the party line, but are developed and ingrained when an individual is under fire. I look for those leaders that in last year’s floods brought their communities back to life and instilled hope for better days ahead for their citizens. Look for those mayors, council people and commissioners that were on the front lines when the event happened making a difference. These are the folks that will garner my support and vote, we need elected officials that will work for and lead all of the citizens not just those that they have made allegiances with. Let’s start choosing elected officials that we agree with 80-90% and not fall into the
trap of being a one issue voter because we will all never agree on everything ( I may just have to drive a Ford for awhile). I am excited about the prospect of having some different choices instead of the ones that the party presents to us as their picks. We need leaders that run government as a business and as such have seen all aspects of running a governmental business and not just a job with a single focus. Above all else, get out there and vote; it matters much more than you think. I don’t care who you vote for, but by God vote!
Air Quality Regulation Fast Facts
Excerpted from the Colorado Oil and Gas Association website: coga.org On February 23, 2014, at the conclusion of a 5-day public hearing, Colorado’s Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) voted 8-1 to adopt new air regulations for the oil and gas industry. These rules fully adopt new federal regulations (EPA’s NSPS OOOO) and add controls and strategies to reduce fugitive Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and hydrocarbon emissions from condensate tanks and other sources. This includes installation of emission control devices and implementation of leak detection and repair programs. The new regulations will become effective in spring 2014. Key Elements of the Adopted Rules Leak Detection and Repair Upon implementation, Colorado will have the most comprehensive leak detection and repair program for oil and gas facilities in the country. Many operators will use infrared (IR) cameras, which allow people to see emissions that otherwise would be invisible to the naked eye. Increased Emissions Regulation The rule requires the regulation of a range of hydrocarbon emissions, including provisions to reduce methane emissions. Colorado is the first state in the nation to directly address methane emissions from oil and gas development. Emissions Reductions The State estimates implementation of the rules will: • Reduce more than 92,000 tons per year of volatile organic compound emissions. • Reduce of more than 60,000 tons per year of methane emissions. Storage Tank Regulation Colorado’s rule also includes expanded control and inspection requirements for storage tanks, including a first-in-the-nation standard to ensure emissions from tanks are captured and routed to the required control devices. Pneumatics The rules expand ozone non-attainment area requirements for auto-igniters and low bleed pneumatics to the rest of the state. They also require no-bleed (zero emission) pneumatics where electricity is available (in lieu of using gas). In addition to these key areas, the rules will also require the gas stream at well production facilities either be connected to a pipeline or routed to a control device from the date of first production. Other measures include more stringent control requirements for glycol dehydrators. Additionally, they require the use of best management practices to minimize the need for–and emissions from–well maintenance, as well as comprehensive recordkeeping and reporting requirements to help ensure transparent and accurate information. - See more at: http://www.coga.org/ index.php/FastFacts/EnergyFactsArticle/air_quality_regulation_fast_ facts#sthash.fU5vADcP.dpuf
Weld Central Hall of Fame
Weld Central High School is searching for WC Alumni that would like to serve on a Hall of Fame selection committee. We would love to have men and women who participated in a variety of different activities while attending Weld Central. If you would be interested in being on this committee, please contact Heather Cook at 303-536-2157 (leave a message if there is no answer) or heathercook@ re3j.com.
CARD OF THANKS The family of Mary Piper would like to thank everyone for thoughts and prayers, cards, flowers, plants, and food. During a time like this we realize how much our friends and relatives really mean to us. Your expression of sympathy will always be remembered. Mary will be greatly missed. Again, thank you so much! Thank you, Julie
March 15, 2014
Page 23
Lost Creek Guide
SERVICE DIRECTORY Dependable Plumbing L.L.C. Your Satisfaction is Our Reputation 213 Dickson • Wiggins, CO 80654
970-483-7733
Repair • New Construction • Septic Systems • RO Systems Water Conditioning Units • Hot Water Heat
Jim & Bonnies SIGNS
Badges - Engraving - Hand Lettering P.O. Box 488 Keenesburg, CO 80643
303-732-4771 Jim Bahr 303-905-0491
We Pay Cash!
Deb & Gabes Auto Recycling
US Army Veteran We pay cash for junk cars & trucks. Must have title, free towing.
720-338-2111
Roggen Telephone Company
303-849-5260
Plumbing & Heating
720-334-6868
Small Engine And Equipment Specialist Local, Experienced Mechanic,
Mark Aden 303-990-5302 www.smallenginedr.com
A Witness to Life Photography Senior Pictures -Portraits Pets – Equestrian – Weddings Rhonda Thompson 303-910-2092
Stagecoach Meat Co., LLC Custom Meat Processing, Retail Smoked Meats, Steaks, Sausages, Jerky & Pies The VonLoh Family 600 W. 3rd Ave., Wiggins, CO 80654
Metal work/ roofing
Zack (303)525-6808
20 Years Experience
303-732-4268
Seamless gutters/Siding/Sofit/Fascia
303-732-4607
720-231-5972 • 303-659-4709
190 So. Main St. Keenesburg
C Custom Gutters
Clarence (720)935-8785
Organized Financial Bookkeeping Fast, Reliable & Affordable
Family Medical Care for All Ages
Quality workmanship affordable prices
Call Mon. - Thurs. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Taking Care of Business
Open Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm
303-732-9257
Licensed Master Plumber
Accepting donations of Food, Toiletries and Money
Reliable, Local, Professional
30 S. Main St. Keenesburg Video Gaming Quartz Wrist watch repair Full service watch repair www.cyberscythegaming.com
Over 30 Years Experience
Assistance for Roggen, Keenesburg, Prospect Valley, & Hudson
R epair , Service & S ales
Gamers Corner
RIDGED MECHANICAL INC.
Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry
Computer Support
970-483-7280
Term Insurance with Kick!
Massages by Jana Jana Dopler,LMT
Fertility Massage Specialist Reiki Master
970-768-3777
Don Eastwood Drilling
Water & Pumps - Permit # 489 1258 4731 CR 217, P.O. Box 160 Deer Trail, CO 80105
303-769-4531 cell 303-883-4406
Haircuts Unlimited
100 S. Main St. Keenesburg
Haircuts • Color • Perms • WAXING
Call For Appointment
720.281.2015
Connie Buckmaster, Stylist • 17 Years Experience
Flexible Hours • Walk-ins Welcome
FOR SALE
Horse boarding Hudson Colorado 23332 CR 4 303-709-4494 McCarthy Trucking Recycled asphalt, concrete Great for driveways & parking areas. Also sand & gravel. Reasonable Prices Call Kevin for free quote 303-901-5034 Keenesburg Attorney: Ruth Pelton-Roby Wills $100, Divorce, DUI, business setup. Experienced, Affordable, Local. If you cannot travel I will come to you call 720-341-8530
Christian based, licensed family daycare. 17 years experience. Referrals upon request
Infant-5 yo 303-345-8898
Taking care of you is our business. Serving Individuals, Agriculture & Businesses Carson Ribble, CPA/MBA
303-827-4031
100 S. Main Hope Building Keenesburg, CO
carson.ribble@gmail.com
DARLENE RUYLE
Hay for Sale New 2014 Crop Alfalfa 970-483-6347
SERVICES
N.C. RIBBLE CPAs, Inc.
Editor for Lost Creek Guide Cell: 970-380-7817 Email:editor@lostcreekguide.com
HELP WANTED Second Farm Equipment Operator Wanted: Tasks Include but not limited to operating large tractors, tillage equipment, planters and other types of implements. General vehicle and equipment maintenance knowledge. Semi truck and trailer driving experience is a plus, CDL welcomed addition. A valid driver’s license and physical capabilities to perform tasks are required. Send resumes to kfijob@aol.com or fax to 303-644-4438.
HELP WANTED
FOR SALE
In search of a Tire Buster to work at Rudy’s G.T.O. in Prospect Valley. Experience with a mini boom and tires preferred. Will train. An insurable drivers license a must. Apply in person at Rudy’s in P. Valley at 33824 Highway 52 Monday - Friday 8-5. 303-7321031 Pay will depend on experience.
The Town Of Keenesburg has 2 Sensus (model #’s AR4090C & 3094-SD-636585B) available to any municipality that can use them. Please call Marc 303-437-4970 15 LMI pumps –low pressure, some damaged, please make offer for entire lot. Marc 303-437-4970 Seals Bids will be accepted for the following vehicles: 1998 Ford Ranger 179,267 miles runs good minimum bid $600.00 1986 Chevy Flatbed—Includes Fisher 8’ plow & Swenson Spreader 118,832 miles minimum bid $1000.00 1969 International Dump Truck 1700 Loadmaster 200,272 miles minimum bid $250.00 Bids must include full name, address, and phone number Please send bids to: Town Clerk Town of Keenesburg P.O. Box 312 Keenesburg, CO 80643 Or place in drop box at 140 South Main Street, Keenesburg, CO 80643 (located on North Side of Building) Bids must be received by 12:00 p.m. on April 15, 2014.
Assembler/Warehouseman - assembly of diesel repair kits. Shipping, receiving. We are located NE of Wiggins, CO. Diesel knowledge a plus. $10.00/hour. 20 hours week. Send your resume or request an application: employment@ dieselorings.com or DieselOrings, PO Box 55, Wiggins, CO 80654
Support Our Troops and Honor Our Veterans
Page 24
Lost Creek Guide
March 15, 2014