Some of Cory Gardner’s Bipartisan

Highlights of Senator Cory Gardner’s Accomplishments for the Citizens of Colorado

Addressing the Health Crisis

• Gardner worked with Taiwan to secure 4.48 million total masks for the U.S. and 200,000 for Colorado. (April 2020) (May 2020) • The South Korean government delivered more than 100,000 COVID-19 testing kits to Colorado after Gardner worked closely with the Republic of Korea and Governor Polis to secure more tests. (April 2020) • Gardner secured 100 ventilators for Colorado from the federal government. (April 2020) • Gardner and Governor Polis secured the President’s commitment to send an additional 190,000 COVID-19 testing kits to Colorado in a White House meeting. (May 2020) • At Gardner’s urging, the U.S. Trade Representative removed tariffs on certain medical products that are necessary for the U.S. to prepare for the COVID-19 outbreak. (March 2020) • Gardner helped secure clarification from the Small Business Administration (SBA) that Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) will be eligible for relief provided by the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). (April 2020) • After Gardner requested more funding for rural hospitals, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it would set aside $10 billion solely for rural hospitals and clinics. (April 2020) • The President directed that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) fund 100 percent of the Colorado National Guard’s pandemic response emergency assistance activities after Gardner and members of the Colorado delegation requested the President approve Governor Polis’s request for additional funding. (April 2020) • Colorado has received significant funding from Congress’ COVID-19 relief packages: o $360.9 million from HHS in initial hospital preparedness funding to Colorado healthcare providers (April 2020) o $288 million from HHS for Colorado hospitals to respond to COVID-19 and address revenue losses, including $188 million for rural healthcare providers in Colorado (May 2020) o $159.5 million from the CDC to expand testing capabilities in Colorado (May 2020) o $142 million from HHS for Colorado hospitals to respond to COVID-19 (July 2020) o $44 million from HUD to respond to COVID-19 among individuals who are homeless or receiving homeless assistance. (June 2020) o $36.5 million from FEMA for the City and County of Denver for emergency protective measures (April 2020) o $34 million from HUD for the state of Colorado (April 2020) o $20.2 million from HHS for Colorado health centers (June 2020) o $16.6 million from FEMA for emergency protective measures (April 2020) o $12.7 million from HUD to address public health, coronavirus, and housing and economic disruption needs (May 2020) o $12.4 million from FEMA for emergency protective measures (June 2020) o $14.6 million from FEMA for healthcare staffing contracts (May 2020) o $11.7 million from HHS to expand capacity for COVID-19 testing (May 2020) o $10 million from the CDC for COVID-19 testing in Colorado (April 2020)

Providing Economic Relief

• Gardner and Rep. Neguse secured updated guidance from the Small Business Association (SBA) to help many mom and pop restaurants access small business loans and weather the COVID-19 pandemic. (April 2020) • The U.S. Department of the Treasury clarified that rural electric cooperatives with fewer than 500 employees were eligible for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which Gardner requested. (May 2020) • Gardner secured guidance from SBA allowing partnerships and seasonal employers to increase their PPP loan amounts. (May 2020) • Grants: o $366.9 million from DOT for Colorado airports (April 2020) o $13.3 million for taxiway construction for Denver International Airport (April 2020)

Bipartisan, Effective:

• The Lugar Center and the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University ranked Gardner the 3rd most bipartisan U.S. Senator. (May 2020) • A report from GovTrack analyzing legislative data in 2019 found Gardner ranked 1st in authoring the most bipartisan bills among Republican Senators and ranked 2nd when compared to every member of the Senate. (February 2020) • The Great American Outdoors Act was signed into law, providing full and permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and billions to address the maintenance backlog of deferred projects on federal lands. (August 2020) • The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which establishes the 9-8-8 Suicide Hotline, was approved unanimously by the U.S. Senate. (May 2020) • Gardner’s provision to establish the Commission on the State of U.S. Olympics and Paralympics was approved by the U.S. Senate. (August 2020) • The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) Implementation Act was signed into law, which Gardner consistently called for to boost Colorado’s trade relationships with Canada and Mexico. (January 2020) • Gardner’s TAIPEI Act was signed into law, which is intended to strengthen Taiwan’s standing around the world. (March 2020) • The Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act, part of Gardner’s VA Readiness Initiative designed to help ease the transition back to civilian life for service members, was signed into law. (February 2020) • The President signed the Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act into law, which Gardner helped introduce. (June 2020)

Delivering for Colorado:

• The Bureau of Land Management headquarters officially opened in Grand Junction, after Senator Gardner pushed for years to relocate the headquarters. (August 2020) • Peterson Air Force Base was selected as the provisional location for U.S. Space Command for at least the next six years. (May 2020) o Colorado passed new legislation to improve military spouse licensure practices, as called for by Gardner and Bennet to bolster Colorado’s chances for the permanent headquarters. (June 2020) • Gardner secured $28 million to begin construction on the Arkansas Valley Conduit, which will provide abundant and affordable clean drinking water to more than 50,000 people in 40 communities in Southeast Colorado. (February 2020) • Evraz North America announced the Rocky Mountain Steel Mill’s long-rail mill project was moving forward to the construction phase in Pueblo. (August 2020) • The Jordan Cove liquefied natural gas export facility was certified by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which would offer Colorado producers an opportunity to access overseas markets. (March 2020) • A federal judge ruled the T-Mobile and Sprint merger could proceed, which Gardner supported to make Colorado home to the next major wireless carrier, bringing thousands of jobs to the state. (February 2020) • Colorado Springs and the U.S. Forest Service announced a new permanent airtanker base and ramp will be built at the Colorado Springs Airport to support aerial firefighting efforts in the Rocky Mountain region and surrounding areas. (January 2020) • DISH Network announced that Denver television stations would air in La Plata County during the COVID-19 pandemic, finally connecting Colorado satellite viewers in the Four Corners region with Colorado news and emergency information, as Gardner has worked on for years. (March 2020) • The National Defense Authorization Act was approved by the Senate, authorizing $268.5 million total in military construction projects in Colorado. (July 2020) • Major grants for Colorado: o $60.7 million grant from DOT for the Vail Pass Project, improving I-70 between mile post 180 and 190 in Eagle County. (June 2020) o $32 million from HUD to address homelessness and a fourth Continuum of Care was designated for Larimer and Weld Counties, which Gardner pushed for. (January 2020) o $20.1 million from DOT to rehabilitate runways, taxiways, and lighting. (February 2020) o $14.8 million from DOT to replace, rehabilitate, and purchase buses and related equipment and to contract bus facilities. (August 2020) o $10 million from DOT to design and develop a pipeline Research, Development, and Testing (RDT) facility in Pueblo. (July 2020) o $4 million from DOT to create quiet zones in Longmont(February 2020) o $225,000 from DOT to study extending Amtrak’s Southwest Chief Route to Colorado Springs, which Gardner supported and requested. (February 2020)

September 16, 2020 Lost Creek Guide Page 5 Coronavirus has Caused Significant Mental Health Strain in Colorado — for Some More than Others A new survey from the Colorado Health Foundation shows sharp divisions based on race, income and political affiliation

John Ingold, The Colorado Sun — johningold@coloradosun.com

More than half of Coloradans have suffered from increased mental health strain during the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new survey from the Colorado Health Foundation that finds deep differences in how people in the state have experienced the pandemic and surrounding social strife based on race, income and political affiliation.

There are moments of unity shown in the data — for instance, a majority of Coloradans favor mask mandates. But, overall, the survey provides an alarming look at the fractured Colorado that is confronting this historic public health crisis.

Coloradans with higher incomes are less likely to say they have experienced stress — and more likely to say they are actually better off financially now than they were a year ago. White Coloradans are less likely to say that they consider police violence or misconduct to be a serious problem facing the state. Democrats are more likely to say they believe that illnesses and deaths caused by coronavirus are a serious concern worth prioritizing ahead of the economy, and Republicans are more likely to say they believe it is important to fully reopen the economy to get

Adam Becker, owner of StorySpring Consulting, talks to Mental people back to work,

Health Center of Denver president and CEO Dr. Carl Clark via even if that means more online video. MHCD rolled out telemental health capacity for the center within about 24 hours so that therapists could meet virtually with clients during the new coronavirus outbreak. (Photo provided by StorySpring Consulting) lives are lost. Nearly 40% of Coloradans surveyed — a number that extrapolates out to roughly 2 million people — are worried they won’t be able to afford either housing, health insurance or food in the coming year. When looking at Coloradans who make less than $30,000 a year, the percentage climbs above 75%. Of those making more than $100,000 per year, 18% are worried about not being able to afford at least one of those three.

“That’s just a huge proportion of our residents who are concerned about pretty basic needs in our state,” said Lori Weigel, one of two pollsters who conducted the survey for the Colorado Health Foundation. “I think we know that. But then to see those numbers just puts it in sharp relief.”

Added Dave Metz, the other pollster who worked on the survey: “It’s like there are two Colorados that are experiencing this in very different ways.”

The poll, the latest of the Colorado Health Foundation’s annual Pulse polls, was conducted by Weigel’s New Bridge Strategy and Metz’s FM3 Research. Politically, Weigel aligns with Republicans and Metz with Democrats. They surveyed 2,275 adult Coloradans in August either on the phone or online. The poll has a margin of error of +/- 2.83%.

“This research allows us to listen and understand Coloradans, so that we can make the most informed decisions to bring health in reach and improve health equity today, and into the future,” Karen McNeil-Miller, the foundation’s president and CEO, said in a statement.

Overall, when asked about their mental health, Coloradans are upbeat. Nearly twothirds of Coloradans say their mental health is excellent or very good. But 53% say they have experienced increased mental health strain during the pan

demic, including anxiety, stress and loneliness. That strain is greatest for those who make the least and those who are younger. Coloradans age 75 and older — the group most at risk for severe problems from a coronavirus infection — are least likely to report increased mental health strain from the pandemic, according to the survey.

A host of other worries

Coloradans surveyed said the pandemic is the top concern facing the state. That may not seem like such a surprise, but, to Weigel, it is astonishing how one issue has come to overtake and define all others. Almost every other top concern identified in the survey can relate to the pandemic. The second biggest concern, according to the poll, is worry over our systems of governA couple dozen Western Slope residents gathered at the intersection of ment and politics Main Street and Townsend Avenue in downtown Montrose to protest — something Weithe ongoing state-mandated closures in effect due to COVID-19. The gel said she has

Open Colorado rally was held in Demoret Park Saturday April 18, 2020. (William Woody, Special to The Colorado Sun) never seen before at that level. The economy, climate change and wildfires; homelessness and housing; health care and insurance; traffic and infrastructure; social justice and racism; public safety; and education round out the top 10.

“Every aspect of our lives has changed clearly in terms of the pandemic,” Weigel said, “and I think the pandemic has heightened or brought about these other concerns that are very top of mind.”

“It’s not like all of the things Coloradans were concerned about before went away,” Metz said. “It’s layered on top of all of that. … The amount of burden that’s been placed on people here has just risen and risen and risen, and they don’t feel like our institutions

have risen to that challenge.”

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Lost Creek Guide September 16, 2020 Page 6 Weldon Valley News September Proclaimed Workforce Development Month GLAD Club September WELD COUNTY, CO — September is National Workforce Development Month and the Board of County Commissioners joined in the recognition by reading a proclamaIf I were September, I would give you tion into the record at Wednesday’s Board Meeting. A day far from the city,

To celebrate this month, Employment Services of Weld County (ESWC) is teaming A walk through an autumn wood, with the Department of Labor and Employment to offer a variety of events throughout A cool brook to dangle your feet in, September, including a virtual job fair, webinars and a fall fest. ESWC will spotlight An afternoon sun to warm your back, a wealth of services and resources during these events, which are available to both job seekers and employers alike. For a complete listing of upcoming events, view the A collage of red and gold leaves on a distant hillside, calendar at www.eswc.org. The sounds of twilight,

“Workforce is now, more than ever, experiencing things differently as COVID-19 Lowing of cattle, quail calling, has rippled throughout the community,” said Tami Grant, Department of Human Farm dogs barking, Services Deputy Director. “Our team has been diligent about working around not The early hoot of an owl having in-person workshops and has moved to employer and job seeker webinars and hosting virtual job fairs online.” A new awareness, peace with yourself.

The hard work by Employment Services staff to meet the needs of Weld County’s These things I would give you— workforce is evident by the numbers. During the last program year (July 1, 2019 – If I were September. June 30, 2020), ESWC: lzora Duncan • Saw 76 percent of individuals who went through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs remain employed thereafter Autumn is almost with us. The trees are losing their leaves and the days are getting • Provided basic career services to 16,000 citizens shorter and the evening are cooling. Snow may be near. • Posted 11,000 jobs to Connecting Colorado, a website for job seekers to connect Smile a little: Road Maps-First husband: “I think my wife is getting tired of me.” with employers Second husband: “What makes you feel that way?” First husband: “She keeps wrap

“Thank you for all the work you do throughout the year, but particularly this year,” ping my lunches in road maps.” said Commissioner Coordinator Barbara Kirkmeyer. “COVID-19 has brought on a lot Community news: of unemployment this year, and you’re doing the work it takes to help residents conThere were many gathering over the weekend as families and friends celebrated the last nect with needed jobs.” holiday of the summer. All report many fun and joyous time with much good food and

Employment Services of Weld County is a comprehensive workforce center which time enjoying the September weather. connects residents with resources for employment, education and training. ESWC It was a fun time for Joel Chapin as he celebrated his 9 th birthday when family and provides a wide variety of services to veterans (who receive priority access), adults friends join him for a birthday dinner. It was a joyous celebration. and youth, including labor exchange, job referrals, skills assessment, training proLeianne and Carter Stinton of Sherwood, Oregon joined family and friends in Colorado grams and eligibility screenings for career counseling. ESWC also offers self-service over the weekend. They visited with Marilyn Stinton in Brush and the Chapin Family in resources, promotion of personal and career development, access to internet tools Weldona. for employment and training opportunities, GED preparation, and information about The members of GLAD Club met on Wednesday in Goodrich for the September. both local and regional employers, in addition to other labor markets. Local and reSammie Covelli and Vicki Peska were hostesses. gional employers are also assisted with applicant referrals and other employer-specifMerri Armentrout, vice president chaired the meeting. Secretary Joy Wilson call the ic services. Learn more about Employment Services of Weld County at www.eswc.org. roll with members answering the question, “What take up most your time?” Courtesy cards were sent to several in the community. A motion was made and passed to donate funds to Cindy Chapin for expense of purchasing fabric to make face masks. She has made 62 gowns using both fabric and sheets. She continue to make masks and gowns. It announced that Deanna Hickson won the GLAD Club scholarship funds. Everyone was encourage to vote in the upcoming election. You may register on-line or at the Morgan County Clerk’s office. Dorothy Osborn won the hostess gift. The program was presented by Denise Shannon on alternative care as we age and may need more care. In Morgan County the are many place that provide: in home care, assisted living, skilled nursing palliative care and hospice. In home care provides help with light housekeeping, companion care or full nursing care. Assisted living facilities may be room or apartment with outside help with medication or needed aids. Skilled nursing facilities proved 24 hour nursing care…can be rehab after a hospital stay or long term custodial care. Hospice care can be offered in one’s home, including assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Focus is to offer comfort and quality. There are many of these options in Morgan County. The next meeting will on October 7 th . Those present were: Merri Armentrout, Carol Baber, Florence Barnett, Gertie Chapin, Carol Covelli, Sammie Covelli, Mary Ellen Higgins, Laurie Klein, Vivianne Lorenzini, Call or Text: 970-467-1512 Dororthy Osborn, Vicki Peska, Pat Wicikstrom, Joy Wilson and Denise Shannon. Email: carissa@arrowheadtrash.com Time is running out, be part of the future. Complete your 2020 Census. You can reOr visit our website at spond at my2020census.go or call 1-844-330-2020. www.arrowheadtrash.com Church Chat: The St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church will celebrate Mass on Sunday morning at 7:00 a.m. Pastor Reverend Erik Vigil Reyes and Parochial Vicar Reverend Francis Saleth, HGN will share the services. Confession will be celebrated before mass. Weldon Valley Presbyterian Church in Goodrich has Christian education and worship at 10 a.m. each Sunday. The Women’s Bible study will on Thursday, September10. Contact information for Pastor Denise Shannon is 720-271-6733 or pastordeniseshannon@gmail.com. School Scoop: Student and staff are moving forward in the class room. All is going well. 4-H News: Members will be delivering Palisade peaches this week. It was a county 4-H fund raiser. Members are gearing up by getting the new projects started. What’s cookin’: Instant Spiced Tea-1 cup instant, 1 cup orange drink mix, 1 cup lemonade drink mix 1 tablespoon cloves, 1 tablespoon cinnamon. Mix all ingredeints thoroughly. Store in airtight container. To serve, mix about 2 teaspoons tea mix, or to taste, with 1 cup hot water. Sweeten to taste. A great warm drink! First facts: 1936-President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the social Security Act into law. Weldon Valley History: WVS School-Weldon Valley School had evolved from many one-room schools in the northwest section of Morgan county. The one-rooms in Morgan County, and elsewhere, were a product of the Homestead Act of 1962, which opened the American West with the promise of virtually free land. Now, over 150 later, almost all the homestead schools across the west have disappeared. One=room schools were usually built by community members, and were constructed about every 2 to 4 miles. Most often on teacher was hired to instruct grades one through eight. Very few have been preserved in their original form. One school preserved is the Old Trail School, once located south of Wiggins. In 1964, it was purchased by the Wiggins Historical Group. It has been restored and is registered with the State and National Register of Historic Places. Calendar of Events: Thursday, September 10, 1:30 p.m. WVPC Women’s Bible study. Thought for the Day: “”Before you flare up at another’s faults, count 10 of your own.”