The Lost Creek Guide October 07, 2020

Volume 13 • Edition 19

October 7, 2020

Delivering Over 21,000 Papers, Serving rural Adams, Morgan, and Weld Counties

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

Christopher Scalia: My Father’s Relationship with Justice Ginsburg – ‘Best of Friends’ Friendship began when they were judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in the ‘80s

By Christopher J. Scalia | Fox News With the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, many people wonder how she and my father, the late Justice Antonin Scalia, managed to be such good friends despite having such different views about the law.

It seems so unlikely to some people that they ask me bluntly, “I hear they were friends – is that true?”

Yes, it is. The friendship began when they were judges on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in the early 1980s.

They enjoyed working together, and they had many things in common.

They were born in New York City around the same time, though in different boroughs. They made each other laugh. They loved opera – there’s even an opera about them. Their spouses were friends, too. My mother, Maureen, adored Marty Ginsburg, and among the things those two shared was a love of cooking.

My parents celebrated many a New Year’s Eve with the Ginsburgs, visiting their apartment to enjoy one of Mr. Ginsburg’s gourmet creations and celebrate long into the night.

Chris Scalia: Friendship between my father and GinsOne of the most remarkable burg was remarkable things about their friendship, as far as I’m concerned, right up there with their ideological differences, was that this set of oldtimers could stay up into the wee, small hours of the morning every year, out-partying their children.

Marty Ginsburg’s death in the summer of 2010 affected my parents deeply; my mother still misses trading recipes with her friend. The first New Year’s Eve after his passing, Justice Ginsburg went over to their house for a more subdued celebration. My wife and I, who’d gotten married that summer, were visiting my parents, and I had the chance to crash their party for a few minutes.

I was an English professor at the time, which I thought was why Justice Ginsburg began telling me a story about an English class she had taken in college.

More from Opinion Rep. Brian Mast: It’s the 10th anniversary of my ‘Alive Day’ – here’s what I know now Eileen Bjorkman: It’s POW/MIA Recognition Day, honoring American patriots who sacrificed for our country Jeffrey Sutton: Justice Scalia and our Constitution – a legacy that will endure One day, she said, the professor was returning a quiz about a Dickens novel, and he singled out the only student who had answered a particular question correctly. In front of the entire class, the professor praised the student – who happened to be a young man named Marty Ginsburg. This made quite an impression on the young Ruth Bader, though I don’t think it was the only reason she married him.

At the end of her story, Justice Ginsburg mentioned that the professor of that class was Vladimir Nabokov, the world-renowned novelist. She knew I’d appreciate that detail – studying Dickens with Nabakov! – but it wasn’t the real reason she told me about that class. She wanted to share with a newlywed the origin of her own long and happy marriage. It wasn’t advice, exactly, but it was certainly inspiration.

Not that she didn’t give advice. My father explained that another reason for their friendship was that “we are both kibitzers,” using a Yiddish term for someone who likes to give unsolicited counsel. “We like to kibitz and we don’t mind being kibitzed.” They formed what he called “a mutual improvement society.”

The point is that they didn’t let differing and deeply held convictions undermine their dear friendship.

She wouldn’t just correct his typos or change punctuation – she helped him strengthen his arguments, and I can’t imagine they were often arguments with which she agreed. She, too, appreciated this aspect of their relationship: “When we disagreed, my final opinion was always clearer and more convincing than my initial circulation,” she said. “Justice Scalia homed in on all the soft spots, energizing me to strengthen my presentation.”

Cont. on Page 2, See Justice Ginsberg

Tommy Holton Endorses Mike Welch for County Commissioner District 3 Seat

This is an important election. I ran for County Commissioner because I was, and still am, concerned about the direction of the Weld County Board of Commissioners. As the past Mayor of Fort Lupton I understand the importance of working together to solve the issues that a community faces, not in a partisan way, but by working together in a bi partisan way so that a consensus is reached resulting in the best solution overall for all the citizens.

Over these past few years, the Board of County Commissioners has become more and more focused on the Greeley area. Unfortunately, the balance that should be there with two at- largecommissioners has not been there, with a very obvious slant towards the greater Greeley area. Considering that most of the Weld County revenue comes from outside the Greeley area this presents a disparity. The current Republican candidate for County Commissioner for our district is a product of the old guard Republican party in Weld County. A group that does not represent the majority of the Weld County electorate. I am a strong believer in the rights of the unborn and certainly, the second amendment, but those beliefs do not solely qualify you to be an effective County Commissioner. In today’s world we, the citizens of District 3 need an advocate at the table for us. I seriously question Lori Saines ability to stand up for District3 among the group responsible for her nomination. Given what Weld County is facing from a revenue shortfall due to the oil & gas issues where do you think District 3 will fall in the Commissioners priority list in a system that already penalizes the District ? We are facing tougher times and now, more than ever, we need to work together as a County to solve the issues that face us in a way that does not discriminate against citizens because of the geography of where they live. We need an independent voice, representing District 3. I do not believe that Lori Saine can fulfill that role, and she has shown truly little to convince me otherwise.

I am endorsing Mike Welch for Weld County Commissioner for District 3 as a person who will stand up for the citizens of District 3. We need leadership, not a follower of the crowd. I remind you that your vote is important. Use it. A bipartisan effort to support Mike Welsch can be productive but everyone’s vote is important, unaffiliated, democrat and independent republicans. Let us send a message that south Weld County deserves a real seat at the table. Please make sure you vote and vote for Mike Welch for County Commissioner for District 3, our District.

Tommy Holton, Fort Lupton

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE:

Page 2: Way of the World Page 3: County Commissioner Commitment to 4-H Page 4: Highlights of Cory Gardner’s Bipartisan Accomplishments for all the Citizens of Colorado Page 5: Farm & Home Lumber Successful Customer Appreciation Page 7: Stone Age Fair - Sunrise Mine Edition Page 8-9: Weld County Re-3J MLO Override Page 10: Gardner Introduces Bill for Ports to Plains Page 14: Gardner Breaks Ground for Arkansas Valley Conduit Page 16: What is at Stake in WC Commissioner District 3 Race

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– Way of the World –

Lost Creek Guide

by Bob Grand Is civility so bad? I put Chris Scalia’s article about the relationship between his dad, Supreme Court Justice Anthony Scalia, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the front page of this issue of the Lost Creek Guide. No question those Supreme Court justices were often at odds on many issues, but they were still friends. We could all learn something from that.

The hate for the President is so great among many that it blinds them to the issues. Listening to John Hickenlooper, Cory Gardner’s greatest sin is that he supports the President.

Hickenlooper is entitled to his opinion, this is America, but Cory Gardner is one of the hardest bipartisan working United States Senator in Washington. A fact that is not disputed by very many. When we decide who to vote for, we should be looking at the issues and basing our decision on who will best represent us, all of us, with the hope that things will get accomplished. Emotions are running high this election, especially those who are beginning to realize that the President might in fact be reelected. My Trump sign mysteriously disappeared last night, but that will not stop me from voting.

I have a couple of grandkids at the 3 to 5-year-old range and two daughters who have been working at the at the home teacher role. Listening to them it is clear that remote learning is not the ultimate solution. It was/is a stopgap measure. Children need the interface with their peers. That is an important part of their education. I understand the concept of concern about COVID 19, but I also understand the need to educate our children. Our educators need best address that and worry less about the political aspects of COVID 19. Many of our teachers are not thinking that way but I believe that many of the teacher union leadership groups have focused this as an opportunity to poke a stick at the President. Be careful that you have not successfully poked a stick in the eyes of many of the soccer moms you are trying to influence.

The difficulties caused by COVID 19 will have long term impact on the hospitality and transportation industries. Conservatively, this will be a several year recoveries for those industries. The government needs to address that in a sensible way to help people transition through this time. At the same time, you have to be aware that COVID 19 has already cost the government more than all the expenses of World War II. The impact on the revenue streams to our major cities is going to be horrific and they have not begun to figure out what to do about it. Expecting the federal government and ultimately the rest of Americans to bail them out is not realistic. This is going to be painful as jobs are going to disappear. Not just a week or two furlough, the jobs will disappear. Union pension obligations, dependent on ongoing cash flow from city/state revenues that were at a much higher level, will default. Nobody seems to be talking about this ugly issue. An even more concerning issue for all if us is the level of federal debt already incurred and about to be increased further by another stimulus program. How are we going to repay this, and probably not we but our kids, their kids, and their kids. Actions have consequences.

It is kind of like forest fires. We do not have effective forest management programs in place. Things like clearing brush and road cutting to provide fire breaks etc. It might put a whole bunch of people to work. More importantly all our insurance rates would not go up to pay for all the homes lost to the fires. In Colorado how many millions of dollars have been spent fighting the fires, not counting insurance losses, that could have been spent more productively?

When will we learn? I look forward to the election ending, hopefully that will allow us to focus on what we need to do and get over the politics of hate. We have some real issues to deal with.

Speaking of real issues one of favorites is RTD. We now see that RTD is laying off more people and cutting service. When will somebody ask if it would not be more cost effective to shut down RTD and give free transportation vouchers to people to use one of the rider providers services? But that might be a commonsense approach and we cannot do that.

Please, whatever your party affiliation or non-affiliation, vote in this election. It is important.

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

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

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October 7, 2020

Weld County Regional Communications Center Earns Top Honor

WELD COUNTY, CO — The Weld County Regional Communications Center (WCRCC) has been recognized as the nation’s best public safety answering point (PSAP) by NICE Public Safety. The 2020 PSAP’S Finest Award is the second consecutive national recognition the WCRCC has earned in as many years from a public safety agency.

“The effort our dispatchers put in every day to serve our residents in their time of need is critical,” Weld County Commissioner Chair Mike Freeman said. “This award exemplifies our county’s commitment to providing the quickest and best emergency response possible, and we couldn’t be prouder of our public safety communications personnel.”

PSAP’s Finest Awards are given to nominees based on their accomplishments, skills and dedication to public safety. Award winners are selected by a panel of judges consisting of public safety professionals from throughout the country.

According to Mike Wallace, WCRCC Director, several accomplishments in the past year were mentioned in the nomination for the award including staff’s assistance in saving six lives, the delivery of one new baby and exceeding professional standards in coordinating emergency response to two officerinvolved shootings. Training and quality improvement, the ability to handle increased call volume, improved response times and reaccreditation in 2019 by the by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) as an Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) also made the WCRCC stand out.

“2020 has been challenging on everyone for many different reasons,” Wallace said. “For our staff to not only meet expectations but exceed them and earn this award speaks to the dedication we have as a team to continually improve in emergency response. We are honored to be recognized.”

The WCRCC will be honored virtually on NICE’s Facebook Page at a later date. More information about Weld County Public Safety Communications can be found by visiting, https://www.weldgov.com/departments/public_safety_communications.

Justice Ginsberg

Cont. from Page 1 Judge Jeffrey Sutton, one of my father’s former clerks, tells a story about visiting my father at the Supreme Court on what happened to be Justice Ginsburg’s birthday. My dad had bought his old friend two dozen roses for the occasion, and Judge Sutton started teasing him, joking that there was no point to a gift like that when Justice Ginsburg had never sided with him in an important 5-4 case.

My father replied, “Some things are more important than votes.”

The point of this story isn’t that my father or Justice Ginsburg changed their votes to please the other, or that they pulled any punches when writing differing opinions – indeed, they are both known for their strong dissents. The point is that they didn’t let those differing and deeply held convictions undermine their dear friendship.

This has already been one of the most difficult and divisive years in living memory; with Justice Ginsburg’s passing, it will become more so.

Reasonable people of good faith will disagree about important issues. You and your friends will likely hold very strong, very different opinions about what course our country should take and who should lead us there.

A healthy republic requires citizens to debate those issues forcefully and peacefully; a healthy society needs citizens to remember that political disagreement need not turn friends into enemies. My father and Justice Ginsburg mastered this balance. We’ll all need to do the same in the difficult months before us.

It is appropriate to give the last words over to my father, words that he delivered to celebrate Justice Ginsburg’s tenth anniversary on the D.C. Circuit many years ago. My father was on the Supreme Court by then; she wasn’t yet, so he ended his roast with some sincere thoughts about their time working together. I imagine that what Dad said then is close to what he’d say today, were he here to mourn her passing: “She was the best of colleagues, as she is the best of friends. I miss her.”

October 7, 2020

Lost Creek Guide

4-H Helps Youth Stay on Target with Future Goals

Page 3

By Shaley Dehner, Weld County Communications Specialist Ng picked up her first bow and arrow in 2014. Her love for archery and shooting sports through her Weld County 4-H Club project has only extended from there.

Ng, who lives in Windsor, does not come from a traditional agricultural background. But the shooting sports project has given her the opportunity to participate in 4-H and hone her skills as a marksman and as a person.

“Although I started my 4-H career in projects like baking then moved into rabbit showmanship, I found my home in shooting sports,” Ng said. “I know this project isn’t traditionally what people think of when hearing about 4-H, but it’s a great project in teaching discipline, leadership and humility.”

Youth not interested in crop production or those not wanting or able to raise and show livestock have an abundance of opportunities to complete projects not related to agriculture – 25 of them, to be exact.

“It’s neat that we can offer these kids the chance to complete a project that suits their personality and interests,” said Director of Weld County Extension Keith Maxey. “4-H isn’t like it used to be, where kids generally raise and show livestock and grow crops. Now, there are a whole host of unique projects to choose from.”

Since 1917, Weld County 4-H has taught youth aged eight to 18 life skills through projects, record keeping and public speaking. Through the program, youth can participate in contests, on judging teams and attend camps and conferences.

Some projects, such as shooting sports, have units designed to allow youth to advance their skillset and knowledge each year. In the restoration project, kids might start fixing something small one year, then advance to bigger projects — like fine-tuning an antique bicycle — the next.

For 14-year-old Wyatt Meyer, looking for a 4-H project led to an unexpected discovery on his family’s farm. An old tool chest that had seen better years lent itself to Meyer’s current restoration project.

Over the past year, Meyer has learned a new skill: how to keep records related to his progress in restoring the chest. He’s has had fun while doing it.

“I decided to fix the chest up by sanding it down, replacing a few boards and staining it,” Meyer explained. “Through completing this project, I’ve learned how delicate things can be when they’re older, and seeing it go from being destroyed to looking brand-new is really neat.”

4-H doesn’t just give youth in Weld County the chance to restore an old chest, build a model rocket or take aim at a target — it also teaches valuable life skills. Weld County 4-H members can also learn leadership skills through the Youth Executive Council where kids meet up, exchange ideas and help plan countywide activities and events. Through these experiences, youth build skills they’ll continue to use as they grow older.

“4-H has allowed me to improve my public speaking, leadership and collaboration skills over the past eight years,” said Ng. “This program has given me the chance to get out of my comfort zone by becoming a Shooting Sports Ambassador, President of the Windsor-Severance 4-H Club this year, Weld County Shooting Sports Council Secretary and a member of the Citizenship Washington Focus 4-H program.”

Through her 4-H project, Ng has learned that growth is a direct result of failure and shouldn’t be viewed as a burden.

“4-H shooting sports has taught me a lot about focus, dedication and sportsmanship,” Ng said. “It’s taken me a lot of practice and time to get to the point I’m at now with my competitiveness. And it’s inspiring to know that I still have more room to grow. Overall, 4-H has helped me become a better person and has taught me ‘to make the best better’.”

What Really is the Weld County Commissioner’s Commitment to the Extension Office 4-H Program in Weld County?

By Bob Grand The article above was put out by the Weld County Public Information Office. 4-H is a great program. I was fortunate to serve on the Weld County Extension Office Advisory Board for over six years, two of which I served as Chair. On that Board, I had the pleasure of working with some very dedicated people, Bill Erickson being one. Bill recently passed and we all will miss him. Bill spent 65 years as a 4-H Leader and I listened to what he had to say, and learned much from him about the commitment of the 4-H leadership folks and how important family participation was to the success of the program. They are where the rubber meets the road you might say. Bill also had some strong thoughts on the real commitment that running an effective 4-H takes.

So, reading the article above it presents a strong picture of the benefits of the 4-H program.

I agree. If you look at the Weld County Extension budget for 2019 it is $415,562. In 2010 it was $324,630. The difference is an increase of $126,932 or + 39.1%. On the surface that seems great.

The department description for Extension in the 2019 budget (page 289 see below) states: Provide adults and 4-H youth with unbiased, research-based education for agricultural. Environmental; and consumer issues.

Let us look at 4-H participation in Weld County comparing 2010 to 2019: 2010: Number of 4-H clubs in the county: 30 2019: Number of 4-H Clubs in the county: 31 or + 3.3% 2010 : Number of club participants: 919 2019: Number of club participants: 902 or - 2.9% Population in Weld County: 2010: 252,825 2019: 324,492 or + 28.3% Looking at the FTE positions, which is how the Weld County budgeting process likes to compare The extension staff dedicated to 4-H is about the same from the County support level with an overall increase of about 1 FTE provide by Weld County 4-H Foundation (.5) and a AmeriCorps Volunteer (.5) by a CSU grant. The bulk of the salary adjustments reflect wages and cost of living adjustments as opposed to more feet on the ground.

For the number one agricultural county in the state, in an environment that reflects that many

What Really is the Weld County Commissioner’s Commitment to the Extension Office 4-H Program in Weld County?

of our newcomers have little or no agricultural background and with a population increase of over 28% since 2010 you would think that the county would be more aggressively supporting the education of the overall population about the importance agriculture and the many benefits of the 4-H programs. But that does not appear to be the case. At the many Board meetings I attended on the Advisory Board, there was often a County Commissioner present who always supported the efforts of Extension. That support seemed to disappear at budgeting time. Nether I or Bill Erickson could ever understand that.

I do not fault the Extension staff. They have to manage balancing the CSU and Weld County Commissioners, considering the resources they have, they do a fine job. But with the way the Weld County budgeting process works it is a herculean task to encourage change. For those that have attended budget work sessions you understand. I believe that the Commissioners need to strongly consider the assigned task of the Extension office and support the development of a plan that realistically provides the resources to meet the objectives, not just maintain the status quo. This will be particularly important as the County wrestles with reduced revenues in the coming years.

4-H is a valuable program, one that should be vigorously supported by the County . There are some hurdles to overcome in that a successful 4-H program requires family support, that requires time, something many of our new citizens do not have enough of.

Not an easy issue to tackle but one that should be a core consideration of our Commissioners.

Something to date I do not believe has been given the attention it should be.

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Lost Creek Guide

October 7, 2020

High Lights of Senator Cory Gardner’s Accomplishments for 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: $360.9 million from HHS in initial hospital preparedness funding to Colorado healthcare providers (April 2020) $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) $159.5 million from the CDC to expand testing capabilities in Colorado (May 2020) $142 million from HHS for Colorado hospitals to respond to COVID-19 (July 2020) $44 million from HUD to respond to COVID-19 among individuals who are homeless or receiving homeless assistance. (June 2020) $36.5 million from FEMA for the City and County of Denver for emergency protective measures (April 2020) $34 million from HUD for the state of Colorado (April 2020) $20.2 million from HHS for Colorado health centers (June 2020) $16.6 million from FEMA for emergency protective measures (April 2020) $12.7 million from HUD to address public health, coronavirus, and housing and economic disruption needs (May 2020) $12.4 million from FEMA for emergency protective measures (June 2020) $14.6 million from FEMA for healthcare staffing contracts (May 2020) $11.7 million from HHS to expand capacity for COVID-19 testing (May 2020) $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: $366.9 million from DOT for Colorado airports (April 2020) $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) 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: $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) $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) $20.1 million from DOT to rehabilitate runways, taxiways, and lighting. (February 2020) $14.8 million from DOT to replace, rehabilitate, and purchase buses and related equipment and to contract bus facilities. (August 2020) $10 million from DOT to design and develop a pipeline Research, Development, and Testing (RDT) facility in Pueblo. (July 2020) $4 million from DOT to create quiet zones in Longmont(February 2020) $225,000 from DOT to study extending Amtrak’s Southwest Chief Route to Colorado Springs, which Gardner supported and requested. (February 2020) Compendium of Press Release from the Office of Senator Cory Gardner

October 7, 2020

Lost Creek Guide

Farm & Home Lumber Successful Customer Appreciation Makita Event

We would like to thank the community for coming out and supporting the Makita Innovation Tour Event at Farm and Home Lumber. The owners Alfredo, Jolene, and the Store Manager Mike, send out a huge appreciation and thanks for all of those that made the day a great success. We would really like to thank the food trucks, Taco Time and Cheese Love Grill they made the event a little more special, such great food!

We were very encouraged from the turn out that we plan on having more special events in the future. We have added a new product line of sealants, glue, caulking and roofing materials. We have done some cleaning and rearranging in the store come in and see the new electrical, cleaning supplies and Rain Bird products. Please excuse our mess as we are making it a better shopping experience for you. We continue to watch the lumber prices as they continue to go up, any savings we can obtain we are passing on down to you, according to market indicators lumber should start to head back down sometime in November. We are consistently increasing our quantity on hand every week when we see a need. We would still like to hear from you on how we can make your Farm and Home Lumber stop a better place to shop. Don’t forget we are now offering a 10% discount to all active military and veterans, we are also offering wall space to those artist’s in the community who want to show off their arts/crafts at no cost to the artist.

Change Is In The Air

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Colorado can always have unpredictable weather. This year has been no different with the early snowfall in the mountains. This changing of the seasons fits well with what is happening with USDA Rural Development this Fall.

As of October 1, 2020, the new OneRD rule will become effective. This new rule combines four different guaranteed regulations into one. OneRD will now be the rule that governs the guaranteed loans for Community Facilities, Water/Wastewater, Renewable Energy, and Business and Industry. The comment period has now ended and the National Office is working to publish the final rule. They are also working on training for staff and lenders alike. Below are a few things that will change for the Business and Industry Guaranteed loans: 1.

Guarantee percentage set annually. For fiscal year 2021, the guarantee will be 80% for all loans no matter the loan amount.

2.

Approval to issue the Loan Note Guarantee prior to completion of the project with a 0.5% one-time fee 3.

No Loan to Value thresholds – lender is allowed to use their typical values with justification 4.

Loan term set by the lender based on justified useful economic life of the asset being financed, not to exceed 40 years.

5.

Equity requirements are no longer based on Tangible Balance Sheet Equity.

6.

Lender must retain 7.5% instead of 5.0% of the unguaranteed portion of the loan.

7.

Self-storage facilities are no longer eligible 8.

Feasibility studies are only required for loans greater than $1million to a new business To learn more about the OneRD rule, you can visit the website at: https://www.rd.usda. gov/onerdguarantee

Gardner Welcomes Over $4.3 Million in FEMA Infrastructure Repair Grants for Larimer County

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) welcomed the announcement that Larimer County will receive a combined $4,369,477 in grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair roads and bridges damaged by floods and other natural disasters.

“I am pleased FEMA will award this funding to Larimer County to help rebuild roads and bridges impacted by floods and other natural disasters,” said Senator Gardner. “I will continue my efforts at the federal level to support Colorado’s transportation needs, keep our highways and infrastructure safe, and ensure communities have the resources needed to recover from natural disasters.”

Funding will be delivered to the following projects: • County Road 44H Roadway Repairs – $1,123,980 • Larimer County Bridge Damage – $2,118,922 • Idlewild Bridge Damage – $1,126,575 Cory Gardner is a member of the U.S. Senate serving Colorado. He sits on the Energy & Natural Resources Committee, the Foreign Relations Committee, the Commerce, Science, & Transportation Committee, and is the Chairman of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy.

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

$15.50

$1.09 per gallon will call or route

$3,535.00 $2,183.00

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Lost Creek Guide

October 7, 2020

SEPT 2020 IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BYLAWS OF THE WIGGINS TELEPHONE ASSOCIATION, D.B.A. BLUE LIGHTNING, THIS IS TO GIVE NOTICE THAT THE FOLLOWING FORMER PATRONS, WHO HAD TELEPHONE SERVICE BETWEEN THE YEARS OF 2009 - 2018, HAVE CAPITAL CREDIT PAYMENTS DUE THEM. IF PAYMENT IS NOT CLAIMED FROM THE WIGGINS TELEPHONE ASSOCIATION WITHIN FIVE YEARS AFTER PAYMENT OF THE SAME HAS BEEN MADE AVAILABLE, SUCH FAILURE SHALL BE AND CONSTITUTES IRREVOCABLE ASSIGNMENT AND GIFT BY SUCH PATRON OR FORMER PATRON OF SUCH CAPITAL CREDITS TO THE WIGGINS TELEPHONE ASSOCIATION. TO CLAIM YOUR PAYMENT, CALL 970-483-7343 DURING OUR BUSINESS HOURS.

October 7, 2020

Lost Creek Guide

Stone Age Fair – Sunrise Edition September 2020

by Bob Grand On September 26th & 27th the Western Plains Historic Preservation Association (WPHPA) hosted displays of prehistoric artifacts and demonstrations at the old YMCA facility at the Sunrise Mine in Sunrise, Wyoming. The Loveland Archeological Society did not host its annual Stone Age Fair because of COVID 19 related issues this year, which would have been the 86th annual event, which started back in 1934.

Many of the collectors who normally exhibited at the Stone Age Fair were present at the Sunrise event. Over the two days, it was estimated that close to 300 visitors attended.

“Dr. George Frison, reOriginal Mining Office & YMCA Building at the cently deceased, Professor Sunrise Mine where the event was held Emeritus of the University of Wyoming: The Dean of Wyoming Archaeology, was directly involved in this site since he first heard of it when visiting Wayne Powars at the Smithsonian Museum. He, along with Powars and others saved the site from total extinction by literally hours as the mine area was being mitigated by a government group (DEQ) some years ago. In 2014 the site was made available by the mine owner, Jon Voight. Jon did Exhibitor, and Andy Coca, President of the not have a background in Loveland Archeological Society and Jon Voight, owner of the Sunrise Mine Property archaeology or the history of Paleoindians but now says he has been told he could now teach history on the Hartville Uplift, where the Sunrise Mine property and the red ochre mine site is located. The historic significance of the site has been shown by the artifacts great age (13,000 years), and their great number here representing continuous cultural activities. A quote from Dr. George Frison: “All of you have shared in the exciteGeri Zeimens showing Dr. George Frison’s collection ment and never in my fondest dreams would I have come across this” The site is a Paleoindian red ochre mine and tool stone quarry. The site became available for the WPHPA to study in the summer od 2014. The landowner, John Voight, has been a most enthusiastic supporter of the archaeological activities.

The site is named after Wayne Powars who discovBoy Scout Troop from Littleton at the event. ered the site when he was an instructor in the CF&I local Sunrise schools. Powars had been involved earlier at the Lindenmeier site in Colorado, hence the designation Powars II. The principle investigators included Dr. George Frison, Dr. Spencer Pelton, and Professor George Zeimens. The young people who do much of the labor of the ongoing archaeology are in the group, “ Expanding EnvironAndy Coca, President of the Loveland Archeology, ments”. Professor George presenting annual scholarship awards to Dr. Marcel Kornfeld, of the University of Wyoming Zeimens and Geri Zeimens, his wife, have led this WPHPA sponsored group for the last 32 years. The “Kids” learn, besides archaeology, a lot of lessons for a better life for themselves, their peers, and their community, and they are paid! (the only paid people involved). Volunteers of all kinds are a most important

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part of the whole project.

WPHPA was established in 1980 as a nonprofit entity and began a wide range of historic preservation activities. The group established a museum 5 miles east of Ft. Laramie and 5 miles west of Lingle, Wyoming, that is now known as the “History Center”.” The bulk of the information presented was taken from the Powars II Paleoindian Archaeological Site, Sunrise Wyoming, 22 June 2019 Tour Guide.

The author would like to thank George & Geri Zeimens who provided much background information about the site and were gracious hosts. Additional I would like to thank Andy Coca, President of the LoveGeorge Zeimens presenting the Powars II land Archaeology Society, Paleoindio site story Jon Voight, owner of the Sunrise Mine property, and all of the collectors who shared their artifact collections with everyone. This effort took a lot of folks and the good results were the results of all their efforts. Job well done! We took a lot of pictures some of which are enclosed.

Also, I must add the folks of Sunrise, Hartville (the oldest existing organized town in Wyoming) and Guernsey for their great hospitality. The whole weekend was just a delightful experience.

Keene Craft Mercantile

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

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Lost Creek Guide

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Funding Our Future

Bryan Hafner Chair, Funding Our Future This Election Day, our community has an important decision to make for the future of our students, families, teachers and local schools. By voting Yes on Issue 5C, we can continue the Weld County Re-3J School District’s voter-approved Mill Levy Override and ensure that our local schools remain strong during these uncertain times.

Without raising taxes, 5C continues the 2016 Mill Levy Override to provide $3.3 million annually in stable, reliable funding for our school district. This funding is critical considering the district’s budget was reduced by more than $1 million this year because of cuts in the state of Colorado’s budget. These cuts are completely out of our control, and they are expected to get worse over the next few years.

Voting Yes on 5C will provide some certainty to allow our school district to provide safe learning environments; support our students’ mental well-being; retain dedicated, quality teachers; and ensure that our children have the resources to learn in the classroom and online.

5C is not a tax increase. The measure continues funding already approved by voters in 2016. The district has put these funds to good use by improving student instruction, reducing class sizes, retaining teachers, offering more electives like arts and STEM, and maintaining our buildings and transportation fleet. The district has done exactly what voters asked it to do in 2016 when they approved the MLO. The 2016 measure required voters to approve its continuation, and despite the pandemic, now is the time for that vote. The district’s Board of Education unanimously referred 5C to the ballot so that our community can show its support for local schools, students and teachers.

Over the next few months, the Funding Our Future committee will be campaigning for 5C and raising awareness about the great work being done by our school district. We are always looking for supporters and volunteers. Please visit Yeson5C.org to learn more about Issue 5C and our campaign.

We appreciate the community’s support for our schools, and with your help, 5C will be successful on Election Day. Please be sure to vote Yes on 5C when your ballot arrives.

kinnearinsurance@outlook.com

October 7, 2020

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Vote Yes on 5C

I can hardly believe that four years have passed, and here we are at the next election year. And for me, some things in those four years have really changed, like COVID and remote learning, and others have remained constant, like my dedication to Re-3J and our community--which happens to be the intent of my letter. The resiliency. support, and cohesiveness that our district displays in good times, and in the not so good, is what I feel is our strongest attribute.

We are quickly approaching November 3rd, and registered voters have much to think about. I hope you know how much the Mill Levy Override that you voted on and passed four years ago has helped our district. Re-3J is not just a collection of schools, but rather a collection of diversity in those schools. It isn’t enough that we exist as just schools, not just a place to learn, but more importantly, a place to belong, to grow, and to thrive. It’s a place where students are proud to attend and be a part of a community they are proud to represent, The money from the mill levy is responsible for many programs and opportunities through our district. I am sure you have concerns during this economically stressful time whether approving the mill levy is worth it. Please know that the answer is yes!

The mill levy is a powerful tool that allows our school community to thrive and flourish.

The mill levy funds various programs that allow our students to contribute, participate, and call our school community a home, a place to belong. These programs include pillars that strengthen the foundation of our community--sciences, arts, and athletics.. The trifecta of what the foundation of what a school should be.

Without this funding, Re-3J would be just that--school walls with limited opportunity inside This additional funding provided by our local community helps to ensure smaller class sizes K-12. This grows the opportunity for strong relationships between students and teachers, students and their peers, and teachers and parents. Academic programs such as STEM, art, and other electives are only affordable thanks to our communities support of this mill levy. The programs we can offer through this funding are the same programs where students develop friendships, better their skills, give back to their community, and most importantly, have a place where they belong. One big factor that helps foster that positive academic environment for students and create a successful educational community is teacher retention. Supporting the mill levy ensures that each classroom will have the necessities that we need so we can focus on building a successful classroom, year after year. Turnover doesn’t allow us that opportunity.

Our mission is to ensure that ALL students can excel, are held accountable, have rigorous and engaging curriculum, feel supported by staff, and ultimately, are successful after high school. Please know that the mill levy ensures schools can do all of these things.

Without it, test scores will drop, teachers will leave, and students will not have the opportunities they seek and desire, but more importantly, deserve.

Please vote YES on 5C to continue the MLO this November. Let’s remember that these kids are a big part of this community I am ever so grateful to be a part of.

Lori DeVoe Science teacher, Student Council co-advisor, We Care president Weld Central High School

October 7, 2020

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Lost Creek Guide

Gardner Introduces Bill to Designate Ports-to-Plains as Future Interstate

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, introduced S. 4701, the Ports-toPlains Highway Act, legislation to designate the Ports-to-Plains Corridor, which travels through Colorado, as a future Interstate. The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX).

“With Colorado’s population growing at one of the fastest rates in the country, it is critical that we are making necessary investments in our state’s infrastructure,” said Senator Gardner. “The Ports-to-Plains Corridor is key to Colorado’s connectivity and the movement of goods, and it’s important we understand and consider our long-term infrastructure needs in the future. I appreciate the work of local stakeholders to support the corridor, and I will continue my efforts to support Colorado’s infrastructure needs at the federal level.”

“Texas is already the largest state exporter of goods, and adding an artery connecting us to Mexico and Canada will mean better access to markets for Texas farmers, ranchers, and producers,” said Senator Cornyn. “I look forward to working with my colleagues representing states all along the Ports-to-Plains Corridor to bring this plan to fruition.”

“We are thrilled for this momentous legislation which will designate a future interstate along the Ports-to-Plains Corridor and bring a significant economic impact to the region as well as safety improvements for travelers on I-25,” said Cathy Shull, Executive Director of Pro 15 and member of the Ports-to-Plains Alliance Board of Directors. “Once completed, the infrastructure will alleviate heavy congestion by redirecting freight traffic east, paving the way for future economic development in eastern Colorado and increasing the productivity of drivers transporting Colorado exported goods to Mexico and Canada.”

The Ports-to-Plains Corridor in Colorado aims to facilitate an additional key NorthSouth route to bolster the transportation of goods and people. The Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) has projected nationwide freight moved by trucks could increase by 44 percent from 2015 levels by 2045, and according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), Colorado exported $1.3 billion in goods to Mexico in 2018. Trade between Colorado and Mexico is expected to increase because of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which went into effect on July 1, 2020.

The Ports-to-Plains Corridor is currently designated as a High Priority Corridor on the National Highway System. Previously, the Colorado Department of Transportation joined State Departments of Transportation from Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico in releasing a Corridor Development and Management Plan for Ports-to-Plains.

Gardner’s bill serves as a companion to H.R. 7151, legislation introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Kay Granger (TX-12), Mac Thornberry (TX-13) and Ben Ray Lujan (NM-3).

Cory Gardner is a member of the U.S. Senate serving Colorado. He sits on the Energy & Natural Resources Committee, the Foreign Relations Committee, the Commerce, Science, & Transportation Committee, and is the Chairman of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy.

October 7, 2020

Meet the 4-H Member- Hannah Auer

By Madie Richmann Your Southeast Weld County 2019 and 2020 Reserve Grand Champion Steer was shown and owned by Keenesburgs very own, Hannah Auer. The 14 year old freshman says she is very blessed for the opportunity to be a part of such a great community and fair. Hannah bought her steers from Jeff and Amy Cooksey. She named her steers Remington and Maverick. Both of Hannahs steers have their own personality, she says. The 2020 year was Auer’s third year showing steers at the Southeast Weld County Fair and her first year showing at the Weld County Fair. Hannah says that her favorite part about 4-H is how you learn so many life skills such as communication and how you get to meet new people along the way. Hannah would like to continue in 4-H and also be a part of FFA. After high school Auer would like to earn an agricultural degree of some sort. Along with 4-H, Hannah enjoys hunting and fishing. Hannah would like to give extra thanks to the Cooksey family, the Moses family, Chris Bailey, Boyd Arnold, and last but not least, her parents, Jody and Steve Auer. Good Luck to Hannah in the rest of her 4-H career.

October 7, 2020

By GLAD Club

Weldon Valley News

Lost Creek Guide

The Old Wheelbarrow We’ve work together many a year, The old wheelbarrow and I; But now it’s finished, and it seems We’ve got to say goodbye.

It’s just like parting from a friend, So close we two have been— In every kind of weather, Autumn gold and summer green.

There’s a new one in the shed, And up-to-date affair, But it’s the old one that I love; Such memories we share— Pushing piles of pots And boxes round the garden paths, Bags of bulbs to greet the Spring, And logs for winter hearths.

And now it stands—a broken wreck— Of no more use to me; But every time I pass it, In my mind’s eye I can see The dear old barrow full of grass, O stakes and stones and flowers— Bringing back the thought O happy days and busy hours.

Patience Strong The sky looks like we may be getting some fall weather. A light snow or some rain would be welcome.

Smile a little: Dog - “Doctor, Doctor, I keep thinking I’m a dog. Well, get up on the couch and I’ll examine you.” Doctor- “Well get up on the couch and I’ll examine you.”

Dog - “I can’t, I’m not allowed on the furniture.”

Community news: It was an exciting day for Dean Groves when family and friends greeted him on the occasion of his 90th birthday. Congratulations and best wishes, Dean.

It was a fun day on Saturday, at the home of Gertie Chapin when Anthony, Katie, Julia, Leah, Andrew and Grant Stinton of Greeley and Janet and George Snyder of San Diego came for a visit. They had a fun time visiting the baby calves and watching the harvest.

The November election is just around the corner. Ballets will be in the mail soon.

Everyone should have received their Blue Booklet with information on the eleven state wide measures to be voted on. On Monday, October 12 at 7:00 p.m. Jon Becker will be presenting the pros and cons on the issues. The meeting is open to all electors. It will be held at the Republican Headquarters, 618 E. Platte.

Time is running out, be part of the future. Complete your 2020 Census. You can respond at my2020census.go or call 1-844-330-2020.

The November election id drawing near. Are you registered to vote? You can do this on line or at the Morgan County Administration Building. This an important election, let your voice be heard.

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 met on Thursday. The meeting was opened with the Presbyterian Women’ Purpose. “Find, Follow Fulfill, God’s Will” was led by Merri Armentrout.

Lesson 4, “Renewing Your Mind” led to an interesting discussion. Those present were: Joy Wilson, Antoinette Pacheco, Susan Kammerer ,Sammie Covelli, Gertie Chapin, Carol Baber and Merri Armentrout.

Contact information for Pastor Denise Shannon is 720-271-6733 or pastordeniseshannon@gmail.com.

School Scoop: The reports from school are good. Students are doing well and there has been NO reported illness. Best wishes to all!

4-H News: 4-H members are working on projects for the 2021 county Fair.

What’s cookin’:Blonde Brownies- 1 cup butter, 2 cups sugar, 3 eggs, 1 ½ cup flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon vanilla, pinch of salt, ½ cup walnuts, 1 pkg. chocolate chips. Cream together butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla, mix well. Add flour, baking powder and walnuts to cream mix. Mix well. Pour in baking pan and sprinkle with chocolate chips. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

First facts: 1942-Glenn Miller and his Orchestra performed together for the last time, at the Central Theater in Passaic, New Jersey.

Weldon Valley History: The first Weldon Valley School was a one-room built in 1887 on the west edge of “Deuel”, as the town was then known. In 1897, a two- room school along the north side of Highway 144. About half way between the alley separating Main Street and Warren Street (behind the Last Stand).The main building of the current school campus was built in 1908.

Calendar of Events: Thought for the Day: “A cloudy day is no match for a sunny disposition.”

Wagoneers News

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Wyatt Wilcox – Monday September 28, 2020 Meeting The Wagoneers 4-H Club met on Monday, September 28, 2020, at the Southeast Weld County Fairgrounds.

Unfinished Business Discussed: Weld County 4-H Newsletter – Members are asked to look at the newsletter for up to date information on upcoming activities and events.

Weld County 4-H Recognition Night – The Weld County Recognition Night is at 6 PM on Tuesday, October 6, 2020. Attendees have been sent invites in the mail.

Trick or Treat Street – The club and the county are still looking at what Trick or Treat Street will like this year.

New Business: Mardi Gras – The Weld County 4-H Mardi Gras in-person event has been canceled.

However, parts of Mardi Gras will still be happening, but the county is still planning on what will happen. This year’s theme has been moved to next year. The new theme for this year is “Riding Out the Rona.”

Pinewood Derby Race – This year’s Pinewood Derby Race had been postponed to next year.

4-H Enrollment Online Platform Update – The online platform for enrollment in 4-H is closed from September 15 – November 1. It is currently undergoing renovations. Enrollment for this 4-H year will be available only online.

Organizational Leader Transfer – Our club’s organizational leader and founder, Mrs. Tara Dreiling has retired after years of volunteer work and loving dedication. Mrs. Tara will still be helping in the club as a project leader. Our club is excited to welcome Mrs. Bydalek as our new organizational leader. We look forward to having Mrs. Bydalek leading our club.

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Lost Creek Guide

October 7, 2020

- Obituaries -

Keith Loyal Weeks Keith Loyal Weeks (82) of Keenesburg, CO, passed away at home surrounded by his loving wife and other family on Thursday, April 23, 2020. Born in Yuma, CO on March 13, 1938 to Loyal and Doris Weeks, . he grew up there and met his future wife, Marcia, at 13 years old. He attended Yuma High School, and later attended Colorado A&M (Colorado State University) and Parks School of Electronics. In 1958, he was hired by Recordak (Kodak) as a repair technician, married Marcia, and moved to Salt Lake City, UT. They lived in Albuquerque, Denver, Ramsey, NJ, Omaha, NE and Castle Rock, CO. Keith worked his way into management for Kodak.

Keith was a servant leader. He was never above any job. If there was something that needed to get done, he would do it. He loved the men and women with whom he worked and always gave his best in everything that he did. He stood up for the people who worked for him.

There was a time he stayed with a young man whose family was killed in an auto wreck, so the man wouldn’t end his own life. In his personal life, he would help anyone at any time and generously gave of his time and talents. He was kind and fair to everyone.

Keith served for many years at the Methodist Church in Keenesburg, Colorado; working on many projects; the church’s basement, helping with installation of the elevator, repairing plumbing, and snow removal. He was often referred to as “The Nicest Guy” in the neighborhood; most kids and close friends called him “Pa” or dad.

Keith loved his family and went above and beyond to help each family member when they were in need. He adored his grandchildren and would drive far and wide to attend their many sporting events and activities. He was happily married to his wife Marcia, the love of his life, for more than 60 years. He was loved by many and will be missed by even more.

Keith loved farming and was so pleased to live on a farm when he retired and raise Belgian draft horses. Keith and Marcie did many events with those horses for the city, nursing homes, church, school, and historical parks in Denver. They were the joy in Keith’s life and he made many friends through those horses.

Keith is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Lynn, and a sister Bette Kirchenschlager. He is survived by his wife Marcia Weeks of Keenesburg, his children; Nancy (Brian Vogt) Bilek of Omaha, NE, Bill (Jennifer) Weeks of Ivyland, PA, and Jim (Angela) Weeks of Aurora, CO. His 10 Grandchildren mourn his passing as well; Tony (Lisa), Tara Bilek;, Keith, Michelle, Jackson, Sierra Weeks; Jonathan, Austin, Quinn, and Andrew Weeks, and by one great-grandchild; Bennett Bilek.. He is also survived by one sister; Bonnie (Kenny) Lyon of Yuma, CO and brother-in-law Dale Kirchenschlager.

Then. Now. Always.

We’re proud to power your life.

October is National Co-op Month.

#PowerOn

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9/15/2020 4:02:51 PM

October 7, 2020

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Lost Creek Guide

- Obituaries -

William (Bill) Erickson William (Bill) Erickson passed away on September 24, 2020. Bill was born to (William) Bill and Juanita (Russell) Erickson in Gill, Colorado on July 3, 1929. His family moved to the Galeton area in 1942. After graduating from Galeton High School in 1947, he attended Colorado A & M (now Colorado State University) where he graduated with a General Agricultural degree. He served as a member of the Reserved Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) in college. After graduation he was stationed at Lowry Air Force base in Denver. On September 10, 1950 Bill married his high school sweetheart, Clara Johnson. After completing his ROTC duty of two years, Bill was released from active duty as an Air Force First Lieutenant.

Bill and Clara returned from Denver to the family farm near Galeton where they owned and ran Lucky Quarter, a working dairy farm, while raising their two children Geenine (Gege) and Jon. Bill was a hardworking farmer with a strong personal work ethic. In addition to running his dairy, he farmed mostly corn and alfalfa. Before No-Till Farming and sustainability became the preferred method of farming, Bill pioneered these practices on his own land, saving time, fuel and ensuring the land would remain fertile and profitable for future generations. He was always creative, and when a particular piece of equipment was unavailable commercially, he designed and modified his current equipment to fit his needs.

He managed to make a difference in many lives and touched countless others through his dedication to volunteerism. He was always available to take on a leadership role if requested or be part of a team. For Bill, it was anything he could do to make a difference for his community.

There was a deep drive in Bill to support the Weld County and Colorado 4-H program. When he was a youngster growing up, 4-H was a big part of his life. Not only was it fun, but the hard work gave him training to become a successful adult, farmer, dairyman and citizen. As a leader for the local Galeton 4-H Club for over 60 years, he helped organize programs for the rural participants.

He also developed a model rocketry program that went from a local club project to a state project.

Bill was also heavily involved with Weld County 4-H Leaders Council and was a member of the State Leaders Council. In 1981 he was chosen as a chaperone for a group of teens making up the Colorado 4-H Delegation attending National Club Congress in Washington DC. He worked tirelessly to obtain donations of fresh produce for several years for meals served at 4-H Camp Tobin during the Colorado State Fair. He was later appointed to the Weld County Extension Advisory Board.

Because of his support and longevity in the 4-H organization, Bill received awards through the years for his dedication to the program. In 2013 he received the Colorado State Alumni Association 50-year Club’s Public Service award. Weld County recognized him for 65 service in 2018.

The Galeton Community Church was always an important part of Bill’s life. He was on the church’s Board of Directors for many years, serving as president for several of those years. He, and his now late wife, Clara organized an active young people’s group, and he was instrumental in organizing the Mother-Daughter Banquet, which was held for over 40 years at the church. The dinner honored the women and girls in the church and was prepared and served by the men and boys. Bill was instrumental in assisting with the yearly Harvest Dinner served first at the Galeton Community Church and later moved to the Galeton Elementary school. For many years, Bill could always be counted on to make the stuffing, usually carving most of the turkeys, acting as greeter, serving, or cleaning up.

More than 25 years ago, Bill saw a need to assist the exhibitors and families of the Weld County Fair. He thought it would be beneficial to those exhibitors if breakfast were available on the grounds. The breakfast he started is still being provided. Last year over 1,000 pancake and sausage breakfasts were served free of charge.

Bill was also active on other boards including Colorado Select Sires, Weld County Ag Council and Friends of International Students at University of Northern Colorado which are all organizations that he had the privilege of serving as president.

Besides being a leader for many organizations, he was a team player as he served on boards for Weld County Farm Bureau, Weld County Weed Board, Northern Colorado Hay Days and Greeley Weld Chamber of Commerce Ag Council.

As Bill lived in the Gill and Galeton areas and graduated from Galeton High School, he recognized that those areas were always small, close knit communities but obviously people move out of the area. Bill organized school/community reunions, all before the advent of e-mail.

Bill was also active in the political process, serving as committeeman for his local party for several years and was as a delegate to the District and County Assemblies numerous times.

As a past ROTC serviceman, Bill participated in the 2012 Honor Flight to Washington DC for past service members.

He was preceded in death by his wife Clara, brother Alan Erickson and sister Elaine Foss.

Bill is survived by his daughter Geenine (Gege) Ellzey, husband Marco Sanchez, and his son Jon, wife Joy Erickson, as well as seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Visitation is Thursday, October 1 from 4-7 pm at Allnutt Funeral Service in Macy Chapel at 6521 W. 20th Street, Greeley. The burial is Friday, October 2, 9:30 am at Sunset Memorial Gardens 3400 W. 28th Street. Services at 11:00 at Galeton Community Church 2nd Grandview, Galeton, with a reception to follow the service.

Doris Lee (Schissler) Dreiling Doris passed away peacefully at University Hospital in Denver, Colorado surrounded by immediate family.

Doris was born in Platteville, Colorado on February 20, 1945 to Phillip and Mildred (Freeling) Schissler and was seven of nine siblings. Doris grew up around the Brighton area and graduated from Brighton High School and later attended college at NJC in Sterling. She then married Michael (Mick or Mike) Dreiling on December 17, 1966 before residing in Oklahoma for a short period of time. She became a farmer’s wife and lived in the Hudson area after that.

Doris spent most of her life devoted to her family. She was a stay at home mom who was active with the Hudson PTA where her children, Ty and Kim, attended school and she eventually worked as the lunch clerk. She loved each of the holidays. Many remember the Easter egg hunts with the “golden” egg as a prize. She would cook large Thanksgiving dinners that were always at her house. Christmas was one of the favorite holidays for not only Doris, but much of the family; homemade cookies and candies, decorations, gifts, and of course, meatballs on Christmas eve are some of the things that made it so memorable.

She always enjoyed life. Doris enjoyed going to Las Vegas, Cabo San Lucas and cruises in the Caribbean. Along with the travel she looked forward to summer afternoon and weekends at a nearby lake boating, water skiing and camping with family and friends. She loved mowing her yard, planting flowers, lake fishing at Lynx Pass, garage sales and clearance racks, porcelain dolls, pottery, cooking and baking to name a few. She was an awesome cook and baker. She enjoyed making a variety of foods from some traditional German dishes to ravioli and chile rellenos but was most known for her amazing homemade pies. Her pies became widely known during their next adventure at the Longhorn restaurant in Hudson and are still brought up in conversation from time to time.

After the years at the restaurant, Doris was able to spend more time with her grandkids. She attended every event she could from school programs and sporting events to 4H livestock shows which displayed her love and support. She became more involved with her church and loved the Lord. She was sweet, kind, honest, hard-working, unselfish, loving, caring and kind to all who knew her.

Doris is survived by her husband of 53 years, Mike Dreiling; son, Ty (Tara) Dreiling, daughter, Kim Spayd; five grandchildren, Taylor, Tamber and Tate Dreiling, Elizabeth and Emily Spayd; four sisters, Elsie Gashler, Carol Odenbaugh, Norma Schumacher and Margie Herndon along with numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by both of her parents; three sisters, Lorene Roth, Marian Dinkel, Linda Mulligan; one brother, Marvin (Sonny) Schissler; and a son-in-law, Keith Spayd.

Visitation was held at Tabor Rice Funeral Home, Brighton, Colorado on Monday, August 17, 2020 from 4pm to 6pm.

Funeral Services were held at Grace Lutheran Church in Hudson, Colorado on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 at 10 am. Seating was limited to 100 people therefore the services were live streamed and are available for viewing via Doris’ online obituary at www.TaborFuneralHome.com. A luncheon followed at the South East Weld County Fairgrounds. Interment will be at Heart of the Plains Cemetery in Roggen, Colorado at a later date.

Memorial contributions can be made in Doris’ name to Grace Lutheran Church.

Verna (Vance) Segelke Verna F. Segelke, 92, left this earth for her heavenly home on Saturday, September 26, 2020. She was born November 24, 1927, at her Wiggins home to Irma (Mason) and Virgil Vance. She attended Wiggins schools, graduating from Wiggins High School in 1945. Upon graduation she attended Denver University for two years on a music scholarship. Verna eventually earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Colorado State College, now UNC. It is estimated that Verna touched the lives of over 1000 students during her 40 year career as a school teacher. She was one of the last teachers to teach in a two-room school in Orchard. She then taught school in Hillrose and Wiggins. She retired from teaching in 1985 from Desert Center Unified School District in Eagle Mountain, California.

Verna married Russell E. Segelke on July 20, 1947, in Wiggins. To that union was born two children, Darlene and Danny.

The family spent their early years in Wiggins, but moved to California in 1965 where Verna continued her teaching career.

While living there, the family enjoyed traveling, jeeping, boating, and camping.

In 1985 Verna and Russell moved back to Wiggins, where Verna lived in the house she was born in. Not quite ready to completely retire, she started the Wiggins Courier with her daughter, Darlene.

They operated the weekly paper for 10 years.

Serving her community was important to Verna. As president of the Wiggins Historical Group, she was instrumental in getting The Old Trail School renovated and on the National Register of Historic Places. She taught Sunday School and Bible School for many years at Summit Baptist Church in Wiggins. She served on the Wiggins School District Board of Directors. She was a member of the Arbor Day committee and helped encourage local businesses in Wiggins to set up planters along Main Street and Central Avenue, as well as organize the local Arbor Day celebration. She helped organize many local celebrations, including the Summer Festival, Wiggins Ag Day, and a Bicentennial celebration of the U.S. Constitution.

Verna is survived by her children Darlene (Charles) Ruyle of Wiggins and Danny (Brenda) Segelke of Round Mountain, Nevada; grandchildren and great grandchildren; Jennifer (Mike) Marquez, Anna Kay and Olivia of Kennewick Washington, Alishia (Tim) Willemse and family of Palmdale, California, Erin (Luke) Epple, Taelynn, Haedynn, and Maesynn of Wiggins, and Emily Ruyle of Denver, Colorado; and a host of nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell, her parents, Irma and Virgil Vance, her siblings, Phyllis Forsha, Shirley Gilliland, and Billy M. Vance.

Visitation will be a the Heer Mortuary Chapel in Fort Morgan on Monday from 2 – 4:30 PM. The funeral service will be at 1:00 PM at the Summit Baptist Church in Wiggins on Tuesday, September 29, 2020. Interment will follow in Riverside Cemetery in Fort Morgan. Family suggests memorial gifts be given to the Wiggins Historical Group, the Summit Baptist Church in Wiggins, The Arthritis Foundation or to the American Cancer Society. All memorial gifts may be sent to the Heer Mortuary.

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Lost Creek Guide

October 7, 2020

Gardner Helps Break Ground on the Arkansas Valley Conduit Project will deliver clean drinking water for 50,000 Coloradans

promised completion nearly six decades ago,” said Senator Gardner. “I want to thank President Trump, Office of Management and Budget Director Vought, Department of the Interior Secretary Bernhardt, the leadership of the Bureau of Reclamation, and everyone in Southeast Colorado who worked tirelessly to make today’s groundbreaking possible. I will keep fighting to ensure the federal government upholds its funding commitment until the project is completed.”

Currently there are approximately 50,000 individuals in Southeast Colorado who have contaminated groundwater. The Arkansas Valley Conduit project, which was authorized by the U.S. Congress in 1962, will deliver clean drinking water to local communities across the region upon completion.

Background: In March 2020, Gardner questioned Interior Secretary David Bernhard about funding for the Arkansas Valley Conduit at a hearing held by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

In February 2020, Gardner announced he secured $28 million of funding for the Arkansas Valley Conduit, to be provided by the U.S Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation’s Fiscal Year 2020 work plan.

In December 2019, Gardner secured language in the year-end spending package that continues to advocate for the construction of the Arkansas Valley Conduit, and allowed for Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) helped break ground on Bureau of Reclamation’s flexibility to use additional funding towards the project in Fiscal the Arkansas Valley Conduit project in Pueblo, finally beginning construction on the proj- Year 2020. ect for the first time since Congress authorized it nearly six decades ago. In February, In October 2019, Senators Gardner and Bennet and Representatives Tipton and Buck Gardner announced he secured $28 million of funding for the Arkansas Valley Conduit wrote to Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt expressing that funding the Arkansas project, provided by the Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation’s Fiscal Year Valley Conduit is a top priority for them and requested the administration support the 2020 work plan. project.

“I was honored to secure the $28 million in funding to finally begin construction. The At Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt’s confirmation hearing in May 2017, communities of the Lower Arkansas Valley deserve clean drinking water, which the Ar- Gardner spoke about the importance of the Arkansas Valley Conduit and secured Bernkansas Valley Conduit will supply for generations to come. It’s exciting to see dirt mov- hardt’s commitment to working with the Colorado delegation to finance the Arkansas ing on this project for the first time since Congress authorized it and President Kennedy Valley Conduit.

In July 2016, the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources approved a bill Gardner authored that would extend greater flexibility to the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District by allowing the maximum use of miscellaneous revenue collected from the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project to be immediately reinvested into the Arkansas Valley High Plains Bank chartered in Flagler, CO intends to apply to the Federal Conduit once construction begins.

Reserve Board for permission to establish a branch at an address to be deIn May 2016, Bent County Commissioner and President of the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy termined on Market Street (Lot 33, Keenesburg Heights; north of Shell Gas District Board of Directors Bill Long testified at the SenStation), Keenesburg, CO 80643. The Federal Reserve considers a number ate Energy and Natural Resource Committee’s Water and Power Subcommittee hearing in support of Gardner’s of factors in deciding whether to approve the application including the record legislation to extend greater flexibility to the Southeastof performance of applicant banks in helping to meet local credit needs. ern Colorado Water Conservancy District and support the Arkansas Valley Conduit.

You are invited to submit comments in writing on this application to the Cory Gardner is a member of the U.S. Senate serving Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, One Memorial Drive, Kansas City, Colorado. He sits on the Energy & Natural Resources Committee, the Foreign Relations Committee, the ComMO 64198. The comment period will not end before October 22, 2020. The merce, Science, & Transportation Committee, and is the Board’s procedures for processing applications may be found at 12 C.F.R. Chairman of the Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy.

262.25. To obtain a copy of the Federal Reserve Board’s procedures, con-

Notice of Application to Establish a State Member Bank Branch

tact Dennis Denney, Assistant Vice President, at (816) 881-2633. The Federal Reserve will consider your comments and any request for a public meeting or formal hearing on the application if they are received in writing by the Reserve Bank on or before the last day of the comment period.

October 7, 2020

Page 15

Lost Creek Guide

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Page 16

Lost Creek Guide

What is at Stake in Weld County Commissioner District 3 Election ?

Weld County is a big old place. Emphasis on old. The longer I live here, (since 2005) the more I realize that the groups, families and interests that have done things here in Weld County, in the past, are still in operation today. The agrarian utopia that the Union Colony settlers start out with as a vision in their minds eye isn’t completely gone, but it has been changed. Competing interests from ranching, farming, oil and gas, and even more by land development have been at war, if not in name then certainly in spirit. Issues like water rights, land usage, road construction and even believe it or not disease management have been and will continued to be used to enforce underlying monetary and political fighting among faction of the Republican party. They are out to settle scores and enforce discipline among party members, as a matter of control, not political ideas. Voting a straight party line is considered a matter of course, not a matter of choice.

My opponent like to hide her true intentions. She frequently mentions her love of the 2nd Amendment and her pro-life stance that she tried repeatedly, and with remarkable lack of success, to foster while she was term-limited out of the state assembly. They will not appear as choices to be made by the county commission. What will appear again and again, are issues related to money and what priorities the county budget will set. My priorities will be the infrastructure and training that Southern Weld County needs. Job training for residents and for Weld County employees so they can create value with fewer employees. Dark economic times are coming to the oil patch. We will see County revenue shrink dramatically and cuts will have to be made to the county budget that previous administrations have not saved for. My opponent’s true intentions are that she needs a job. I would encourage her to do as I have done, and for once in her life get a job that isn’t related to with her political connections. Walk the walk, talk the talk of working in private industry and make your own way. Ask yourself, why do the same names keep appearing on the ballots? Is it because they’ve done such an excellent job, or is it because this is their career and have nothing else they are capable of doing? I’ve spent a lifetime working in industries like oil field services and information technology, for large and small businesses and know what they need and how governmental budgeting works. I’ve observed the Weld County government’s budgeting and administration process first hand over the last 14 years as an outsource employee with Xerox and a direct employee.

Current County Commissioners like to brag about their lack of debt. They take credit for oil and gas deposits that were laid down million of years ago. If you are blessed to be born into immense wealth, please have the tack not to brag that you somehow earned it.

The next few years are going to be difficult for Weld County government as they’ll have to learn to survive on a much reduced revenue stream. I’m the only candidate who has first-hand knowledge of how this can be done, and I’ll promised that this is not a stepping stone to some higher political office. I’ve had my career. I want to spend the rest of my life making a difference in something that I believe in. I would appreciate your support on November 3.

I ask you to vote and I ask that you vote for me, I plan to work for all the citizens of Weld County, especially those in the District 3.

Thank you, Mike Welch, Candidate for Weld County Board of County Commissioner District 3

Vote For Mike Welch for Weld County Commissioner District 3  I will be an advocate for all of Weld County District 3 citizens.  My background in the Oil and Gas Industry and the Weld County Government make me uniquely qualiied to be a County Commissioner.  I will focus on the Weld County Budgeting Process so that we can evaluate where our tax money comes from and where it goes.  I believe that government should work for all the people  I ask that you participate also. When you get your ballot vote early and please vote for me!

Paid for by Committee to Elect Michael Welch Registered Agent – Michael Welch

October 7, 2020

People are beginning to vote. Split the ticket and pick the best people, not necessarily straight party line.

Integrity: Let’s Make it the New Litmus Test

Dave Kisker, President, People United for Responsible Government “lit-mus test”: A litmus test is a term from chemistry meaning a decisively indicative test.

Example: “opposition to the nomination became a litmus test for political support of candidates” Over the last 20 years or so, we have observed the deep ideological divide that has evolved in our Country, driven partly by social media. Accusations of “fake news”, misogyny, racism, “science denial”, “deplorables”, “selfish bastards”, “libtards”, “baby killers” and other, similar invectives have become routine attacks by one tribe against another.

A secondary effect of this polarization, the ideological “litmus test” is now used to determine whether a person’s adherence to a particular political ideology is sufficiently “pure” to be accepted for tribe membership. Any wavering on the group’s “hot button” issues will result in rejection of candidates as undeserving of support.

But, is it helpful for us to go off into our separate echo chambers and reiterate how terrible the other side is?

Instead, I would argue that the real missing link in our country today is leadership.

Whether we argue about COVID-19, election integrity, whose lives matter the most, whether rioting and property destruction is acceptable, or whether a SCOTUS appointment should occur, it’s all based on our tribal litmus tests.

We are witnessing a societal breakdown as our cities burn because even the roles and responsibilities of citizens, their government and law enforcement have become blurred.

Clearly, the US is not perfect, but simply trying to erase the history won’t make the memories go away.

To solve our problems, we will require true leadership, not just mandates from the President that we must all wear masks or sloganeering about America’s greatness. That’s just not good enough.

But, where will we find those leaders, whether at the local, state or national level?

To answer this question, we turn to one of America’s greatest leaders ever, President Dwight Eisenhower. Known for his leadership ability, not only as President, but also as the Allies Supreme Commander during World War II, “Ike” was able to accomplish more than most because he was able to collaborate with a broad spectrum of others to get things done.

As we study his life, we find Eisenhower also had a “litmus test” of sorts when it came to leadership. In his words: “The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably INTEGRITY. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.”

What is integrity? It has many aspects, but, in our opinion, the most important is that one does the “right thing” even when no one is watching.

Why is integrity in a leader so critical? Simply put, it’s because without integrity of the leader, the entire organization will be suspect. Whether it’s the U.S. Congress or a cabinet department, whether it’s a governor or the mayor and council of a town or the Commissioner Board of a County, lack of integrity leads to flawed motivations and dishonesty.

And, in order to accept that dishonesty, we must become polarized and hide behind our litmus tests to justify our enablement of our government.But, is that really good enough?

Isn’t it time to expect…no, DEMAND more of those we put into office?

For the upcoming November election, I challenge you to apply a NEW litmus test. Let’s evaluate those who seek to represent us by the Eisenhower test—INTEGRITY. Let’s pay less attention to which tribe the candidates are in, and more attention to whether they deserve to lead us, starting with their integrity: will they do the right thing even when we can’t watch?

Do they routinely lie about their opponents or their own accomplishments? Not good enough. Find someone else. Or, leave that box blank. Stop enabling them.

Do they not understand that ethics matter? Dump them like a hot potato. We deserve better.

Integrity matters on the local level too—a candidate who has avoided taxes, retaliated against opponents, collaborated with cronies, or, wasted taxpayer dollars on boondoggles doesn’t deserve your support. Dump them.

And, yes, especially at the local level, your tribe member doesn’t deserve your support if their decisions have been tainted by cronyism, or dishonesty. Even if they pass the “nonRINO” test, they must not succeed.

In this 2020 election, let’s use a new litmus test: INTEGRITY. The only one that matters.