The Lost Creek Guide December 17, 2020

Volume 13 • Edition 24

December 16, 2020

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

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

Gardner Delivers Farewell Speech

Washington, D.C. – Today U.S. Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) delivered his farewell address on the U.S. Senate Floor.

“It›s been the privilege to serve with you and this country. We owe every man, woman, and child in this country our commitment to them, to not pass onto that next generation a nation in decline or retreat, but a nation that rises. A nation that reminds itself that ours is a country worth fighting for. A nation that believes in itself, because when you believe in America, when you believe in this country, the world has not seen anything yet,” said Senator Gardner.

Remarks as delivered: Thank you, Madam President.

Thank you to the people of Colorado for this incredible honor that you have lent to me these last six years to serve you in the United States Senate.

Thank you to my family – Jaime, Alyson, Caitlyn, Thatcher, to mom and dad and Lisa, who supported me in this last decade of service with your love and sacrifice through missed ball games and lost teeth, school concerts and junior high dances, sore throats and first moments.

Thank you to my incredible staff, many in the chamber today, who are in Colorado and Washington who made so many great things happen and whose difference will be felt for generations to come. You leave a mark on the country far beyond the etching of a signature on a desk on the floor.

And thank you to my colleagues and to Senator Bennet. Thank you for the honor of serving along your side and for your commitment to our nation. To the Capitol Police, the staff, the support staff in the Senate who make it all possible.

But above all, and most importantly, thank you to this great and extraordinary nation for all that it means and represents. The hope and optimism that for over two centuries has led people around the globe to give up everything they had just to be here, to be a part of this nation, to then turn around and fight for it through political strife and pandemics, to go to war to save the Union.

To know how lucky and blessed that we are that out of all of the billions of people through the thousands of years of human history, we have had the privilege of being here in this place at this point to be a part of it.

There’s been a lot of coverage in the news lately about how the pollsters got it wrong, but one thing they seem to get right, and it won›t come to a shock to my colleagues on the floor, Congress is about as popular as a Rocky Mountain oyster in a bullpen.

We’ve been, together, able to do many good things and I hope that we can use those successes to drive even more successes and show the American people that faith in this institution is actually well-deserved.

Over the last six years I have worked hard to pass the first ever mandatory sanctions on Kim Jong Un and North Korea to denuclearize that regime. It was an honor to work with Senator Menedez throughout this process.

Senator Markey and I led the passage of the first ever comprehensive strategy for a free and open Indo-Pacific, the Asia Reassurance Initiative.

Gary Peters, along with Lamar Alexander and I, led the reauthorization of the America COMPETES legislation to keep the United States competitive in science and engineering, to get more women and minorities into the STEM fields, and to advance our scientific research and discoveries.

Cont. on Page 3, See Cory Gardner Farewell Remarks

Cory Gardner: Thank you for your service

by Bob Grand, Publisher Cory Gardner has a been a hardworking, productive, bi-partisan United State Senator representing Colorado. All citizens of Colorado benefitted from his outstanding work ethic. He should have been a shoo in for re-election. Not the case, as he fell victim to the anti Trump sentiment and the vicious Californian and New York extreme left wing money people and their lap dog politician operatives. Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi had a lot to do with making John Hickenlooper Cory Gardner’s replacement. I hope everyone watches John Hickenlooper’s performance over the next six years. He is no Cory Gardner. The perception of what makes Colorado so attractive to people is opposite to the political reality of the state’s two political parties. The Democratic party leadership in Colorado is not one of dynamic leadership but one that follows the dictates of the DNC, which does not live in Colorado or represent the values of what makes Colorado so wonderful. The Republican Party leadership in Colorado, with a party that has an ever decreasing percentage of the registered voters, lives in the past and does not seem to be able or want to communicate its core values to the electorate, particularly our new citizens. Neither party deserves the support of the people of Colorado. Citizens of Colorado wake up! Your party should represent you, not some third party controlled and manipulated by out of state extremists or a party tied to the past. You and Colorado deserve better.

Sharing With Others on Thanksgiving

In this time where people were being told to spend Thanksgiving at home (one more limitation of the pandemic), there were some people who were unable to achieve that.

They would have no turkey, no ham, no mashed or sweet potatoes, no gravy, no beans or corn, and no pumpkin pie or other dessert. These people were working. Some were working in clinics and hospitals, some were working in stores, and some were driving down the highways and by-ways of America.

This last group are America’s truckers, both long-haul and local. They are the ones who bring everything we have, from food to fruit and nuts; to furniture and items for the home; to virtually everything you see in a store, whether it be a grocery store or any kind of store!

They would not be spending time around a table with a family giving thanks for the bounty at the table.

And so, a group of people from Destination Ministries gave up their day to give those truckers some semblance of a Thanksgiving meal. Sprung from an idea by Rene Callen, a group was quickly formed to pull this all together! And what an event it was! Situated behind Loves in Hudson, Colorado, they served over 65 truckers and supplied them with a hot Thanksgiving meal...all of the above items were included, and they even could pick one of 6 different pie slices!

Sometimes servings others is the best way to spend Thanksgiving! We will surely be there again next year! Same time, same place! Perry Bell, Destination Ministries

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE:

Page 2: Way of the World Page 2: McConnell Celebrates “Truly Exceptional” Senator Cory Gardner Page 4: Aims Seeks Input on Programs Page 5: Donations to Local Charities Page 6: Baseline Page 7: Pandemic has Changed Education Page 8: MCREA Returns $4 Million Page 10: Start Taking Care of Your Skin Page 11: Bombshell Bling Salon Page 12: Crop Nutrient Management Page 16: Weld County Farm Named Heritage Site

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– Way of the World –

Lost Creek Guide

by Bob Grand To all, have Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year and stay healthy! Almost all of us have been touched in one way or another by COVID 19. The illness directly itself is an issue but there are longer term implications that will be affecting us. Think about it, children have lost almost an entire school year so far as well as a loss of the interaction with other young people, so important in those development years. People’s jobs and earnings opportunities have been severely impacted. Some will have to find entirely new areas of employment. The loss of homes has yet to start as the forbearance on mortgages is still in effect. What happens when that begins to hit? Whole industries are changing.

The travel and tourism industry are looking at a long road to recovery. How many restaurants will fall by the wayside? How many hotels and resorts will end up changing hands because of bankruptcies?

Look at the culinary business. Being a chef was considered an honorable profession.

Now culinary schools are feeling the pinch, not only because of restaurant impact but because the nature of how people eat is changing. The ski resorts have a multiple issue.

Not only are they facing COVID 19, but they are also facing a major alternation of their basic demographics. The baby boomers were a hardcore base for the industry. As they are getting older, they are sking less, the bodies just cannot do what it did 20 years ago. The millennials do ski, but they tend to go for shorter lengths of stay on their ski getaways.

The world is changing a rate not scene in a while. For some, this will be an emotional, financial, and personal rollercoaster. Buckle up, this trip is far from over.

On Monday Joe Biden will be declared the newly elected President. President Trump will have exhausted all his legal remedies. It was his right to pursue whatever remedies he might use. The Supreme Court did not rule politically, it ruled legally, which is important to our country. Our constitution has survived because it is based on law, not personalities or politics. Do I think there were illegal votes cast? Yes, but no different than any election in the past. What we should do is review the process of how people are able to vote. Vote harvesting, particularly in the big cities, has been going on since time immemorial. What needs to be done is each state, in a bi partisan manner, needs to review how it maintains its voter rolls, purge out those names that should not be on the active rolls either because of death or relocation. A strong civil penalty should be imposed on those people or organizations that have been found to have broken the law. Voter fraud should have a stiff price to be paid. That will discourage it.

We wish Cory Gardner well. He did an exemplary job as United States Senator representing Colorado. Mitch McConnell’s comments in an article in this paper say it all. He paid the price of supporting the President as well as an overwhelming effort by California and New York special interests. The people of Colorado need politicians who represent the people of all of Colorado, not just well financed out of state people with self serving interests. The state also needs a vibrant two-party system. I don think that anyone, in good conscious, can claim Colorado’s two major political parties vigorously represent the people of Colorado. The extremes of their bases yes, but what about the people of all of Colorado, a serious question remains.

In this issue we have a couple of articles on the Uyghurs of East Turkistan and the immoral and despicable treatment at the hands of the People’s Republic of China. Unfortunately, unlike the Tibetans, they do not have a Richard Gere to bring their plight to the table. The Chinese have been the 900-pound gorilla for too long. We will see how our new President reacts to the Chinese. The Uyghurs have suffered for a long time. In todays enlightened world how can this be allowed to go unchecked and mostly ignored. They have not had a champion to make their case.

Speaking of exciting times, it appears the Iranians are sending a fleet of oil tankers filled with gasoline to Venezuela. It seems the Venezuelan’s have a severe gas shortage because their refining capacity is not in good enough repair to support the nation’s needs. To pay for this they will replenish the tankers with Venezuelan crude. President Trump will have a decision to make on how to handle this.

Joe Biden’s son will have some explaining to do. Uncomfortable is an understatement but you know the problem is not unique. Our federal laws are not clearly, well defined, to explicitly prohibit what amounts to insider trading.. On election night John Hickenlooper said Washington is broken. Let us see what he does to help fix it, or does he just be part of the good all boys.

As usual your comments are always appreciated. publisher@lostcreekguide.com Stay healthy and remember those less fortunate this holiday season.

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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December 16, 2020

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell Celebrates “Truly Exceptional” Senator Cory Gardner

‘For six years, Coloradans have been represented by this remarkable person, who lives and works with relentless focus and infectious joy. Globe-trotting diplomacy. A thick stack of signature bills signed into law. And generational accomplishments that were only possible because he was here.’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding Sen. Cory Gardner (R-CO): “It’s my honor today to pay tribute to a truly exceptional U.S. Senator.

“Someone who arrived in this body with a full head of steam; a determination to cram as much service as possible into every day he got to wake up and serve his neighbors who sent him here.

“Our good friend Cory Gardner, the junior Senator for Colorado, has been a man on a mission from the day he arrived.

“He already knew the institution. He was already one of the highest-energy high-achievers that anybody who knew him had ever met. So he got to work. And he’s spent six years delivering a dizzying list of accomplishments.

“If you’ve heard about Cory Gardner’s early days, you know this high-speed “can-do” attitude is nothing new.

“Case in point: One evening when Cory was a boy, he and his friends got tired of their hoop sessions ending at sundown, because the public basketball court lacked sufficient lighting.

“The group of friends considered how to remedy this. Cory’s dad happened to be a town councilman. So a little government relations took place around the dinner table.

“Well, no Senator who Cory’s ever pressed for a vote will be surprised to hear that the lighting infrastructure was soon adjusted, and the kids could take their pick-up games into primetime.

“So young Cory was no stranger to persistence, or to public service.

“But it was in high school that he scored an opportunity to taste a level beyond Yuma’s local government.

“He won admission to the U.S. Senate Youth Program. It’s a scholarship that brings promising students from around the country to these halls for a quick immersion experience.

“Teenaged Cory Gardner liked the looks of this place. He made a mental note. By the way, to this day, Cory, along with his fellow alumna Senator Collins, continue to make sure that special experience is paid forward.

“It didn’t take Cory long to come back and begin strolling these hallways for real. After earning honors at Colorado State and a law degree from CU Boulder, he wound up working for our former colleague Senator Wayne Allard -- and rising quickly through the ranks.

“In short order, he developed a reputation as a highly effective advocate for Coloradans.

“In fact he was so well-liked, so effective, and so thoroughly the proud son of Yuma that folks started to wonder if it wasn’t time for Cory to put his own name on a door somewhere.

“So it wasn’t long before the men and women of Colorado’s state House District 63 found out firsthand what happens when you hire Cory Gardner to fight on your behalf: You get results. Big time.

“Not much later, his neighbors then gave Cory a new assignment here in Congress.

Again, Congressman Gardner didn’t just meet the bar, as one out of 435.

“He excelled. A powerful, energetic voice on the most consequential issues. He brought home one win after another where it mattered. *** “It didn’t take long before another promotion came calling. And so, appropriately enough, the Senate’s freshman class of 2014 included a new member from the land of “14ers” — what Coloradans call their peaks higher than 14,000 feet.

“Cory was already accustomed to altitude. So here in this ‘upper chamber,’ Senator Gardner hit the ground sprinting.

“I believe he’s authored 11 standalone bills that have been signed into law in just six years.

“Without Cory’s tireless work -- and his travels to the four corners of Colorado and beyond -- the biggest conservation bill in a generation, the Great American Outdoors Act, would not be law.

“There’s been his key role in the Supreme Court confirmation of fellow Coloradan Neil Gorsuch… His mission to move the Bureau of Land Management to Grand Junction…

“And, of course, the nuts-and-bolts constituent work that Cory and his staff are famous for mastering.

“This not-so-junior Senator has used Colorado values to improve Washington, and Washington influence to advance his home state.

“He dived headfirst into his leadership role on the East Asia Subcommittee on Foreign Relations. His work with regional allies helped drive the Senate to approve meaningful sanctions against North Korea.

“And the impact of the Asia Reassurance Initiative should echo long after all of us here today have left the scene.

“The litany of Cory’s work just does not end.

“There’s the new, nationwide, three-digit suicide prevention hotline.

“There’s the fact that this freshman not only scrapped over a national defense issue with our late colleague Chairman John McCain — talk about fearless — but that he somehow emerged mostly unscathed, and with a win on space launch vehicles to show for it.

“But like I said, one of the best aspects of Cory’s operation is his almost obsessive focus on looking out for his people — one family, one story at a time.

“That’s why it’s impossible to give a speech on Senator Gardner without working your way to another name: Don Stratton.

“When Don was first met with our colleague, the 95-year-old Navy veteran was living with his wife in Colorado Springs.

“But the story began 76 years earlier, when he was among the fortunate few sailors to survive the bombing of the U.S.S. Arizona at Pearl Harbor.

“At 19, Don had survived severe burns, but insisted on returning to combat with the fleet. After the war, he raised a family and wrote a book about his experiences.

“But Don’s request to Senator Gardner wasn’t anything for himself. It concerned a comrade who’d saved his life that day 79 years ago this very week.

“At risk to himself, a sailor named Joe George had literally thrown the lifeline that brought Don and five of shipmates to safety. But Joe’s lifesaving efforts had gone unrecognized before his death.

Cont. on Page 4, See Truly Exceptional Senator Cory Gardner

December 16, 2020

Lost Creek Guide

Cory Gardner Farewell Speech

Cont. from Page 1 The 9-8-8 Suicide Prevention Bill that Tammy Baldwin and I were able to pass into law represents the first bill in American history to pass the Senate and House unanimously with LGBTQ specific language. This bill will save lives.

I was honored to help move the Bureau of Land Management Headquarters to Colorado and to finally get funding for the construction of the Arkansas Valley Conduit. And I helped lead the passage of legislation to complete our V.A. hospital in Colorado, to advance our cybersecurity, and to foster our relations with Taiwan, South Korea, and beyond.

And it was an honor of my time in the Senate to work with Lamar, and Senators Manchin, Cantwell, Heinrich, Warner, King, Portman, Daines, and Burr on the Great American Outdoors Act – the holy grail of conservation legislation.

In my first remarks on the Senate floor, I spoke about how no matter where across Colorado’s four corners that you live, or across this great nation, we all hope for the same thing for our children. To live in a loving home that values every citizen, that they learn the value of hard work and perseverance, where hard work is met with merited reward.

That they find a nation of liberty and freedom that they help make a little bit more free and a little bit more perfect.

All of us here in the Senate, the American people, all of us, are responsible for the starting point that we hand off to the next generation, and we have a moral obligation to make it the best starting point possible.

The accomplishments that we have had together truly have helped create more opportunity for the next generation. And the work that we continue to do, to get through this pandemic together, will ensure that the next generation can indeed take advantage of those accomplishments and that the starting point for them is better than the generation past, despite the struggles of today.

You know, at Sunday school we learned an important lesson about this – that struggles and tribulations produce perseverance. Perseverance – character, and character, hope.

And since that very first speech that I gave on the Senate floor, I have come to recognize something that all of us - that everyone here has undoubtedly experienced – that our service to country is filled with moment after moment that gives us that lump in the throat that brings a tear to our eyes, that fills our heart with wonder for this nation.

Perhaps it happened to you when seeing the majesty of the United States Capitol brightly shining in all its glory on a crisp State of the Union Address night, or maybe when we hear the passion in the voices of our colleagues as they tell the story of life and struggle and hope for the future.

For me, these moments happen every day, and I’m sure it does for you as well. Just part of the wonder of this nation and its Capitol. It was late at night for me, nearly ten years ago, when I was leaving the Capitol building. I had walked through the Hall of Columns and I heard some voices ahead near the door that I was heading toward.

When I turned into the corridor, I saw a Capitol tour guide pointing at a phrase that was painted on the wall. I looked at it and read it too. It was William Jennings Bryan and painted on the wall were these words, “Our government, conceived in freedom and purchased with blood, can be preserved only by constant vigilance.”

I looked at the group reading it and there in the center of the mall was a veteran in a wheelchair with bandages around his knees where his legs used to be. The gravity of this place, that moment, and the duty that we owe to this nation struck hard.

As I walked home, I kept thinking about it, about those words, about that moment, about that veteran, about this nation and our responsibility. I thought about how that wall was painted with that phrase, but there are others that are blank and empty, spaces that have been left empty so that future generations can fill them in with their history, with new portraits and new phrases and new moments.

But no matter the moment in time, or point in time, in history, it›s the same patriotic responsibility that we owe to this chamber to defend and serve our nation, her Constitution, and the American people.

George Washington in his farewell address said that the name American must always exalt the just pride of patriotism. He spoke of our Constitution and how it must be sacredly maintained and that virtue and wisdom must stamp every act, and despite the differences over policy and politics, it is our union that ought to be considered as a main prop of our liberty and that love of the one ought to endear us to the preservation of the other.

I believe that›s what Lamar Alexander very eloquently spoke about on this very floor in his farewell just days ago. It is our country and the unity of nation that, despite our differences, will help preserve and will preserve our liberty.

Washington offered his advice in his farewell as an old and affectionate friend, a friend who recognized our obligation to create a better starting point for every new generation.

But how do we heed this advice in a world of viral social media, click bait, and sound bites?

Colorado Senator Bill Armstrong once said that while he was firm in his principle, he was flexible on the detail. We all come to this place because of our core values and beliefs about this nation. Those principles make us who we are, they drive our actions, they drive our debates.

But today it seems as though we live in a world where tactics are elevated to the same status and importance as principles and that staying true to principle means that the tactics used to achieve that principle are elevated to the same importance as the principle itself. It’s always my way or the highway. Senator Armstrong’s flexible details would now be derided as violations of principle.

We cannot govern when every tactic and detail is elevated to the level of principle.

There is no compromise with this approach. We cannot find ways to bring people together for that unity of nation which Washington spoke when the test for principles becomes so impossible to pass that only the very factions that he warned about can prevail.

To my staff I often talk about this challenge as being one of the pillar and the paint. The pillars in the building are more than just ornamental – they are structurally necessary to the building itself.

The pillars are our principles. They make us who we are. But the paint color, the details, we can figure that out together. We can respect the pillar and find agreement on the paint. We can hold people›s principles in place, respecting those core beliefs that make you who you are, while finding ways to work together to find solutions to common challenges.

That›s how we pass the test of unity that brings people together. Respecting principles while achieving solutions because not every detail is a principle and not every principle is a detail and we need a legislative body that can recognize this. And by doing so we›ll follow through on the advice of Washington and preserve our liberty with unity of nation.

Too many people have given up on the institutions of their government, and it›s my

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hope that the American people will find this pillar and paint approach to be one that can make a difference because if they believe it, if they believe that it will, then the American people will make sure their values are reflected in the representatives that they elect.

Several years ago I had the honor of meeting a man named Donald Stratton. He came to my office accompanied by his family and the family of a sailor named Lauren Bruner and the family of another sailor, Joe George.

They were looking forward to yet another commemoration of the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7th, 1941, now seventy-nine years ago yesterday. Both Donald Stratton and Lauren Bruner were on the USS Arizona when it was attacked. Donald Stratton was on one of the ship›s towers. He was surrounded by flame and surely believed that he would perish, when out of the chaos of that morning came a rope, thrown by a yet unknown to him sailor by the name of Joe George, who was aboard the USS Vestal, which was moored next to the USS Arizona.

This rope saved Donald Stratton’s life and several other shipmates. No one knew their lifeline was thrown to them by Joe George until years later. Once they learned who it was, they spent the rest of their lives fighting to get Joe George honored and recognized by the Navy.

I was honored to be a part of that effort and finally on December 7th, 2017, led by Donald Stratton and Arizona’s remaining few, Joe George received the Bronze Star with “V” device for valor aboard the USS Arizona Memorial, with Donald Stratton attending one last time. He was fighting for this country and his countrymen to the very end.

When I asked him how he did it, how he survived the attack and those flames and got back into the fight in the Pacific for this nation, he chuckled, he laughed, and he gave me an answer that I truly didn›t see coming at all. He said, “Well, Cory, everybody has to be somewhere.” Everybody has to be somewhere. And he’s right.

We›re here in the United States Senate. Most of you will still be here next Congress.

Don›t waste this opportunity to be who this nation needs you to be at this moment of great challenge. To recognize the difference between the paint and the pillar, to know the difference between a principle and a tactic, where to take a stand and where to stand together to bring a nation together in unity for the preservation of liberty.

To recognize that to be American carries with it the greatness of a nation forged by fight and fire, tempered by wisdom and made great by men like Donald Stratton, who recognized that their duty and their time didn›t just end with the last calling of the roll.

Everybody has to be somewhere. Make it count for this nation that you are here.

If you go into any of my offices you›ll see on the wall my Mission Statement and it ends with this: “We represent a state where the words to ‘America the Beautiful’ were written.

We will always look up to the Rocky Mountain horizon and the work that we do and remind ourselves that only through our actions will God continue to shed his grace on our great nation. Ours is a nation founded on the optimism that no generation waits for the next to be told where to go. It›s the great American horizon that compels us. To continue to reach ahead, to rise, to achieve, and to believe in America.”

Ten years ago I sat on the floor of the United States House of Representatives as we prepared, some of my colleagues here with me, to be sworn into the 112th Congress. I watched with our daughter Alyson patiently sitting by my side as the peaceful transition of power took place, the hallmark of our republic. As the most powerful constitutionally prescribed member of Congress, the Speaker of the House gave the gavel to a newly elected Speaker without gunshot or war, peacefully transitioning to a new majority. Today I speak on the Senate Floor with a heart of gratitude that as I leave with a new Congress set to begin, I go home not because of or due to the threat of violence or revolution, but because of that same constitutional governance that has given this country over two centuries of strength and certainty, a jewel among nations, exceptionally blessed by God. It›s been the privilege to serve with you and this country. We owe every man, woman, and child in this country our commitment to them, to not pass onto that next generation a nation in decline or retreat, but a nation that rises. A nation that reminds itself that ours is a country worth fighting for. A nation that believes in itself, because when you believe in America, when you believe in this country, the world has not seen anything yet.

Thank you to my colleagues, thank you for the honor of serving with you. And, Madam President, this kid from Yuma yields the floor.

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.

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Santa’s Hard Luck Fund Welcomes Your Support

Lost Creek Guide

The Santa’s Hard Luck Fund was started in 2005 to give back to the community during the Christmas season and in other tough situations throughout the year. It was formed so that those who are blessed and willing could help families and individuals in our community who are challenged by their circumstances and could use help in their current situations. Because of generous contributions from individuals, families and business owners, the Hard Luck Fund has and is able to give back to the Roggen, Keenesburg, Hudson, and Lochbuie communities by providing gift cards and other resources to kids and their families in challenging situations and to help give them a joyous Christmas. The Hard Luck Fund has been collecting through donations and contributions at the Southeast Weld County Fair and from other community donations.

Additional donations are always welcome. For more information on how to give or if you know of a family or individual in need, please contact the Southeast Weld County Fairboard, Jeff Cooksey at 970/381-9913.

Call Pat Rogers 970-768-1506 PARtiresales@aol.com 16589 Hwy 52, Wiggins, CO 80654

December 16, 2020

Truly Exceptional Senator Cory Gardner

Cont. from Page 2 “For years, Don didn’t even know who had saved him. So once he found out, Don Stratton made it his mission to ensure our nation formalized our gratitude for his guardian angel.

“Well, let’s just say the Strattons picked the right state to retire in. Colorado’s junior Senator was on the case.

“Cory and his staff waded through tangles of bureaucracy. They appealed decisions all the way to the Secretary of Defense. And you better believe they secured that Bronze Star for Petty Officer First Class Joe George -- with the V device for valor, to boot.

“Don passed away earlier this year. By all accounts, he and his family had come to regard Senator Gardner not just an incredible advocate, but a true friend. *** “Now in fairness, this same eagerness and almost maniacal problem-solving can also get Cory in the occasional pickle.

“I remembered recently that, just months after the Senator was sworn in, he and I were on a CODEL together in the Middle East.

“I think the itinerary was something like eight countries in six days.

“At one point, we were waiting to meet with a foreign leader.

“As everyone else was just waiting patiently in this grand palace, Cory spots what looks like a stray piece of paper lying on the floor.

“Earnestly thinking he should leave the place better than he found it, Cory bends over and picks up the trash.

“Except it wasn’t trash.

“Just then, the monarch rolls in with a color guard…

A color guard that is looking anxiously for the floor marker that was supposed to indicate where to stop marching.

“Luckily the only diplomatic fall-out was a good laugh.

“Actually, good laughs tend to follow Cory in his wake. Our colleague finds humor in the everyday like few can, and shares it freely.

“I understand one of his favorite stories concerns a chat in the well with yours truly, and former Senator Hatch. Cory was filling me in on the efforts to legalize marijuana in states like his. Orrin comes by, and sensing an ally, I pulled him in: ‘Orrin, is this true? What the heck is going on out West?’

“Without missing a beat, our friend from Utah, a member of the LDS church, shook his head sadly and said: ‘First, it was tea. Then, coffee. And now this!’

“Cory’s version of this story comes complete with his finest Hatch and McConnell impersonations. Believe me, he’s got the voices down pat. *** “For six years, Coloradans have been represented by this remarkable person, who lives and works with relentless focus and infectious joy. Globe-trotting diplomacy. A thick stack of signature bills signed into law. And generational accomplishments that were only possible because he was here.

“As Cory likes to say himself: ‘Not bad for a boy from Yuma, Colorado!’

“We know what he means. But I have to observe that Cory’s roots and his accomplishments are not in conflict. Quite the contrary. It is only because Cory Gardner is exactly who he is... that he is able to do what he does.

“Cory, everyone knows darn well your transition is no quote-unquote “retirement.”

This is a brief pause between great chapters.

“I bet Jaime will call it a victory if she, Alyson, Thatcher, and Caitlyn can just get you to sit still and stay home through the holidays!

“But we all know it will take about five minutes before you’ve found a dozen new ways to keep doing big things, winning victories on behalf of others, and paying forward the ways in which you’ve been blessed.

“Colorado and your country aren’t finished with you yet, Senator. Not by a long shot.

“So thank you for everything. We’ll miss you badly around here. But we can’t wait to see what course you chart next.”

Aims Seeks Input on Programs for those 50 and Older

R OGGEN T ELEPHONE

GREELEY, CO – November 30, 2020 – Aims Community College is launching a new program for learners age 50 years and older, and wants input from the community on what programming to develop.

The initiative, called Plus 50, is designed with lifelong learners in mind. It’s expected to launch next fall at all four Aims campuses, online and in person, explains Katie Jacobs, lifelong learning program coordinator.

“We want the community to know the 50 Plus program is in development, and we want to hear from that community,” Jacobs said. “What classes do they want? What do they want to learn more about?”

Program offerings might include theater or sports outings with like-minded people and classes in photography and physical fitness. Estate planning and project management are also being considered.

Filling out a short, multiple-choice survey will help the college determine which courses are of the greatest interest in the community. Estate planning, project management and health are among ideas for classes.

“The most important thing is that people know we will tailor the 50 Plus program for what they want and what they need,” Jacobs said.

The survey is available at bit.ly/plus50program. It takes about three minutes to complete, and some lucky survey takers will win a small prize!

About Aims Community College Aims Community College is one of the most progressive two-year colleges in Colorado.

Founded more than 50 years ago in Greeley, Aims has since established locations in Fort Lupton, Loveland and Windsor. Curriculum now includes 4,000 day, evening, weekend and online courses annually in more than 200 degree and certificate programs. Aims Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Aims Community College is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution. www.aims.edu

December 16, 2020

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Lost Creek Guide

Donations to Local Charities Make Excellent Holiday Gifts

There is a popular saying that states “giving is better than receiving”. While Colorado Gives Day has passed, there are still opportunities to support some very special nonprofit organizations that provide much needed services in northeast Colorado.

Although there is an extensive list to consider, a few time-honored organizations that deserve some attention for their work in the community are noted below.

Connections for Independent Living. Connections for Independent Living’s team of dedicated staff and directors promote the full inclusion and integration of people who live with all types of disabilities into all levels of society, including personal assistance in obtaining access to benefits, services, and programs that are critical to well-being.

Services such as community transition services for those moving back from the nursing home environment, deaf and hard-of-hearing services, Section 8 housing services, peer support groups, classes, and enrichment activities, and access to technology adapted for people who experience low vision, blindness, or hard-of-hearing are just some of the valuable services this certified independent living center provides to consumers in Weld, Morgan, Logan, Washington, Sedgwick, Yuma, and Phillips counties.

Visit ConnectionsforIndependentliving.org or call 970-352-8682 for more information.

Kids at Their Best. For 13 years, Kids at Their Best has inspired, educated, and empowered children in low-income rural areas through such programs as teen leadership training, summer meal enrichment, individual college navigation, internships, job shadowing opportunities, and employment.

Earlier this year, Kids at Their Best was recognized as a National Best Practices model on Youth Engagement and Community Relations by No Kids Hungry, an organization that combats child hunger.

The non-profit group primarily concentrates its efforts in Morgan County.

Those interested in helping strengthen these efforts can contact Kids at Their Best founder and Executive Director, Jodi Walker, at 970-380-7721 or by emailing her at jodi.walker@kidsattheirbest. org.

Fort Morgan Heritage Foundation. For more than half of a century, the Fort Morgan Heritage Foundation has preserved the history and culture of northeast Colorado. As a depository for historical items and records, the non-profit establishment acts as an integral educational resource for the community and has been deeply involved in the area’s historic preservation efforts. Rotating, traveling, and permanent museum exhibits have been made possible through the diligent efforts of the staff, volunteers, and board members of this long-standing institution. Additionally, the Fort Morgan Heritage Foundation conducts outreach programs for various audiences and shares the lives and influences of musician Glenn Miller, author Phillip K. Dick, and other well-known historical figures.

In addition to accepting donations and memorials, individuals can become a sustaining member of the non-profit group and receive various member benefits throughout the year.

To download a membership application or to explore more about the Fort Morgan Heritage Foundation, visit cityoffortmorgan.com and select “museum” from the department pulldown menu.

Museum staff also can be contacted at 970-542-4011.

Alzheimer’s Association. With more than 5 million Americans of all ages afflicted by this debilitating disease, the Alzheimer’s Association works to provide care and support for all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia through a free nationwide 24/7 helpline, support groups and education programs, resources, awareness building, and advocacy efforts. Additionally, the Alzheimer’s Association funds scientific investigations, publications, and research to accelerate progress towards treatments, preventions, and ultimately a cure.

Most notably known for its annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s fundraising event, there are several other ways that one can support this 501c3 non-profit organization. Visit alz.org to make an online donation, get involved with its efforts through volunteerism, and help spread its mission of accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support.

The Northern Colorado Alzheimer’s Association chapter will be presenting some live/interactive webinars on Alzheimer’s for caretakers and family members starting January 15. Go to morgancc. edu/alzheimers to register for these free sessions. Take advantage of these informative presentations and learn more about the operations of this respected organization.

All Aboard: Annual Fort Morgan Chamber of Commerce Train Contest Opens

With bright twinkling lights calling attention to a Christmas message to a giant mascot waiving at passing traffic, several Fort Morgan area businesses and organizations are carrying on a holiday tradition in downtown Fort Morgan this month.

Train cut-outs decorated as part of the community’s Christmas Capital of the Plains celebration were recently installed by Fort Morgan Parks Department crew members in City Park.

The holiday contest participants display their creative talents in hopes of being selected as having the best decorated train car. If chosen, the winning entrant will get to select an area non-profit organization to receive a monetary donation in its name. Last year’s winner, Elevated Home Inspections, presented a check to the Disabled Veterans Association.

The annual train contest is sponsored by the Fort Morgan Area Chamber of Commerce and Bloedorn Lumber in Fort Morgan. The Fort Morgan High School FFA Chapter also contributes to the event by cutting out the train forms.

“This is such a family fun activity that everyone can get involved with,” notes Sandy Schneider-Engle, executive Director of the Fort Morgan Area Chamber of Commerce. “We are encouraging everyone to see the creativity displayed by area merchants and community groups, to get some fresh air, and then cast a vote for his or her favorite selection.”

Paper ballots are available at the Fort Morgan Chamber office, 300 Main Street, or on the Chamber’s Facebook page. The deadline to vote is December 24. However, trains will be on display through the beginning of January for people to enjoy.

This year’s participants include: Cover4 Theatre, Wolf Waste, Morgan Federal Bank, Morgan Community College, Equitable Savings & Loan Association, Coates Realty Group, The Art Spot, Allo Communications, Northern Colorado Title Company, Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), Elevated Home Inspections, B106 Radio, Morgan County Tourism, FMS Bank, Goetz Insurance, Amy Grantham/State Farm Insurance, Media Logic Radio, Trinity Lutheran Little Lambs Preschool, Morgan County Family Center, Salud Family Health Center, Miller’s Landscaping, Morgan County Motors, Spotts Bros.Furnace Co., Bloedorn Lumber, Colorado Plains Medical Center, Valley View Villa, and McDonald’s.

For more information about the train decorating contest or other upcoming community happenings, contact the Fort Morgan Chamber of Commerce at 970-867-6702.

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

$15.50

$1.29 per gallon will call or route

$3,535.00 $2,183.00

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Wagoneers News

Lost Creek Guide

The Wagoneers 4-H Club met on Wednesday, December 2, 2020.

Unfinished Business Discussed: 4-H Online and Enrollment – The 4-H Online website is now up after undergoing updates. Enrollment is only available online this year. The deadline to enroll in 4-H is March 1, 2020, on a Monday.

Meat Quality Assurance – 4-H and FFA members must attend the in-person Colorado MQA training class once as a Junior member and once as a Senior member. Those who attended the online MQA for last year in 2020 will need to attend training this year for the 2021 4-H year. Those who need to attend can contact Michelle Langston at (970)-400-2076 or by email at mlangston@co.weld.us to RSVP. The RSVP deadline was December 4th at 5 PM. There are four available dates for training: Sunday, December 13th, Monday, December 14th, Friday, December 18th., Saturday, December 19th.

New Business Officer Elections – The club voted on who will be the Club Officers for 2020.

Nominees and Results President Nominated: Elizabeth Spayd Elected: Elizabeth Spayd Vice President Nominated: Stacy Patton and Cody Bydalek Elected: Cody Bydalek Secretary Nominated: Courtney Bydalek and Sydney Vaughn Elected: Sydney Vaughn Reporter Nominated: Wyatt Wilcox, Cody Powers, and Emily Spayd Elected: Wyatt Wilcox Treasurer Nominated: Wyatt Hall, Emma Wilcox, and Cody Bydalek Elected: Emma Wilcox Song Leader Nominated: Garret Hall, Courtney Bydalek, and Addison Powers Elected: Courtney Bydalek 4-H Officer Training – The officer training class will be held February 2, 2021, at 6:30 PM at the 4-H Building in Island Grove Park.

New Leaders – Thank you to the new leaders who have volunteered to be Project Leaders and Cloverbud Leader!

Tara Dreiling – Discovering 4-H Alethea Wilcox – Gardening and Beekeeping Erin Bydalek – Cloverbud leader

Merry Christmas kinnearinsurance@outlook.com

December 16, 2020

- Baseline -

By Linda Meyer It’s the middle of December… Depending on your perspective, either it’s “finally December” or “December already?” The days go by slowly, but the years fly by.

Christmas will be here next week. Are you ready? I’m getting there, but there’s always more to do. Daughter and family will come over for dinner Sunday evening. We will make cookies and open gifts. We’ve realized it’s good to spread the grandkids’ gifts out over the week so they aren’t so overwhelmed with new things. I asked Santa for a special drop-off, so the stockings will be filled by Sunday afternoon. It cuts down how much Santa needs to do on Christmas Eve, so it helps him and his reindeer, too.

I grew up in north-central Illinois, closer to Iowa than the Chicago area. We lived on a farm about 7 miles from town, where most of our extended family lived.

One Christmas we had a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. I don’t remember how much snow we received, but it was probably been 6-10 inches. I was six or seven years old.

My Dad had a 1962 Willy’s Jeep that he used for farm work. He often referred to it as his “hired man”. That Christmas we had to drive the Jeep to our family Christmas celebration because of the snow. There were only two seats in the Jeep, so I sat on an empty 1-gallon paint can between the seats. My brother is four years older than I am, and he sat behind the passenger seat. I don’t remember what – if anything – he sat on. May have been a blanket or two.

I remember Dad driving down the highway, which had not been plowed. There were some tracks in the snow, but not many people were out in the cold and snow. We didn’t go very fast. The Jeep had 4-wheel drive, and we made it to Grandma and Grandpa’s house.

Of course, we had food for Christmas dinner. Mom usually made pies, at least four or five. I don’t remember this happening, but both Mom and Dad told (and re-told) the story that after driving through all that snow, when we walked in the door the first thing they heard was, “The pies are here!”

My cousin has fond memories of Mom’s lemon pie. I’d rather have her apple pie, or maybe cherry. I haven’t made any pies in a few years. They take time and a lot of effort.

Maybe this is a good year to give it a try!

Dad had his farm sale in 1990, just before he turned 70. My aunt went to the sale. We lived in Omaha at the time, and I am glad I wasn’t there. My aunt said the only time she saw Dad tear up was when it was time to sell the Jeep. The auctioneer asked him if it worked, and Dad managed to say yes.

About twenty years later I found out who bought it – someone I went to school with and now farms in the area. Ron bought it and they used it on their farm for a number of years.

All three of his daughters learned to drive in it, just like my brother and I learned to drive in that Jeep. They eventually sold it to another family, and I understand it is now at a cabin in Wisconsin. It still works. I had occasionally thought of that Jeep over the years, and was so happy to finally know what happened to it!

Christmas is full of memories. Whatever holidays you and your family celebrate, I hope they are happy and you make some new memories.

Wishing you Peace and Joy, and a blessed New Year!

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

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

Community UMC Limiting Attendance

Community United Methodist Church in Keenesburg is limiting the number of people who may attend worship, due to the rise in Covid-19 cases. On November 13, 2020, Bishop Karen Oliveto of the Mountain Sky Conference of the United Methodist Church, sent a letter to all churches “strongly urging” them to close due to Covid-19. After much deliberation, Rev. Linda Meyer, Pastor of Community UMC, decided to limit worship attendance as of November 29, 2020.

Community UMC is now allowing only their senior members, over age 70, to attend.

These members tend to live alone, and do not have access to technology that would allow them to view worship services online. “These are our most vulnerable members: vulnerable to Covid-19, and they have a higher risk for loneliness and depression,” said Pastor Meyer. “We are trying to provide a safe place for them to worship, away from those who are more likely to unknowingly carry and spread the disease. It also gives them an opportunity to see their friends and neighbors who also have very little contact with anyone outside their own home.”

Pastor Meyer says this was a difficult decision, and she does not know when they will be allowing everyone to return to worship. She is hopeful they will be able to stop limiting attendance in late January, provided the number of Covid-19 cases decrease significantly after Christmas. For those who are not able to attend worship, Community UMC’s worship services are recorded and are available later on Sunday afternoons on their Facebook page and on their YouTube channel.

December 16, 2020

Lost Creek Guide

Op-Ed: The Pandemic has Changed Education.

Now let’s Change How we Fund Education

Adam Peshek / RealClearWire The COVID-19 pandemic has provided an unprecedented opportunity to rethink education in America. Instead of hoping for a return to “normal,” let’s learn from what has worked – and what has not – to make lasting improvements and create a more resilient system, one that can adapt to any challenge families may face in the future.

The first step toward realizing a more resilient and family-centered system is to reimagine how we fund education. In short, it’s time to start funding families, not the buildings that are meant to serve them.

Americans spend at least $720 billion on education each year. At around $13,000 per child, that puts the U.S. among the highestspending countries in the world.

Instead of providing this benefit School choice advocates rally at the Kentucky Capitol in Frankfort, directly to families Ky., on Monday, Jan. 27, 2020. They are supporting legislation that – as we do for highwould give tax credits to people who donate to scholarship funds er education, childfor special-needs children or those in low-income homes to attend care, and health private schools. care – in K-12, we send this money directly to school buildings. Taxpayer dollars are collected and sent to a central office, and zones are drawn around individual schools where students are required to attend or forfeit the funds raised for their education.

The pandemic has exposed the flaws in this system. School closures, loss of childcare, and difficulties transitioning to online and hybrid-learning models are having devastating effects on children. According to one report, an estimated 3 million students have received no formal education since schools closed in March. That’s the equivalent of every schoolaged child in Florida failing to show up for school.

The economic impact on students is estimated at $110 billion in lost future earnings each year. Unsurprisingly, this decline in learning has been felt more deeply by children in low-income families.

These challenges might seem insurmountable, and many of us look forward to the day when we can return to “normal.” But why would we want to return to a status quo that has proven a failure during a time of crisis? While we may not encounter an international crisis of the scope and scale of COVID-19, families face immeasurable local and personal crises each year.

This is a time to learn from innovations that have proven successful and integrate them into the system moving forward.

One of the biggest innovations during the pandemic has been the proliferation of individualized education. Families with resources – financial and otherwise – are taking matters into their own hands. They are hiring tutors, forming learning pods, enrolling in microschools, sharing childcare, reimagining after-school programs, and rearranging their lives to provide the continued learning opportunities that many children have lacked for months.

These unconventional models may yield academic benefits. Researchers from Opportunity Insights analyzed data from 800,000 students enrolled in an online math curriculum used by schools before and during the pandemic. The researchers found that students in low-income neighborhoods saw a 9% decline in math progression between January and April. Meanwhile, students from wealthy ZIP codes saw a 40% improvement over the same period.

In other words: in the spring, with schools closed during the pandemic, students in some wealthy families may have progressed academically at higher rates than if the schools had remained open.

This is raising understandable equity concerns from advocates concerned about widening gaps between low- and high-income students. But in a situation where some students are progressing and others are falling behind, the solution isn’t to move everyone to the middle. It’s to give those falling behind access to the same type of learning that is allowing others to thrive.

The sort of family-directed, individualized education taking place during the pandemic is likely to expand its presence in American life. As an Atlantic article observed, “COVID-19 is a catalyst for families who were already skeptical of the traditional school system – and are now thinking about leaving it for good.” The author of that piece, Emma Green, recently said in an interview that home-based, unconventional methods of education are getting “a flood of interest from parents of all kinds.” Early data seems to confirm this, with large upticks in families opting out of school systems to pursue homeschooling.

To create a more effective and more resilient education system, we must learn from what has proven effective during the pandemic – namely, the ability of those with resources to identify and pursue a variety of individualized learning opportunities to meet children’s needs. To provide these same opportunities for all families, governments should prioritize direct grants to families, education spending accounts, refundable tax credits, and myriad other ways to get money into the hands of families so they can build an education that fits their needs.

The way in which we currently fund education is blocking equal access to these learning opportunities. To expand that access, we need to fund families, not school buildings.

Adam Peshek is a senior fellow for education at the Charles Koch Institute.

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As Coronavirus Cases Continue to Surge, Prioritize Your Mental Health

By: Flora Welsh Originally posted by The Pagosa Springs Sun The colder months are here, driving many of us indoors. The stress of one of the most contentious elections in our nation’s history has left us feeling divided and frustrated. And coronavirus numbers are surging, affecting everyone’s mental health.

According to a recent report from Mental Health America, our mental health needs are growing and our harmful substance use is on the rise.

As the days get darker, many of us experience seasonal depression, even in the best of times. This year, it goes beyond seasonal depression. Watch out for your mental health.

Watch out for the mental health of your friends and family.

Here are some things you can do to help keep yourself and others well: • Reach out to people, let them know how you’re feeling.

Don’t forget to go outside — even when it’s cold. Take a walk around the block to clear your mind and get some fresh air and sunshine. Just remember to bundle up first.

• Exercise. There are free classes you can take online if it’s too cold outside and you don’t feel comfortable going to the gym. Find a 30-day fitness challenge and stick to it.

• Schedule time with your loved ones. If you can’t meet in person, put a weekly coffee or tea date on the calendar and stick to it. We need each other now more than ever.

• Limit screen time. Put a date on the calendar for a 24-hour social media detox. Studies show increased mental health concerns directly correlate with social media usage.

Resources: Colorado Crisis Service: (844) 493-8255 or visit its website.

Many insurance providers are offering telehealth for mental health. If you have insurance, start by calling your provider to get connected with a mental health professional.

Some other options for getting connected with a therapist are resources like Sondermind or Open Path Collective.

On our free resource website page, you can find online activities that bring us joy are wonderful ways to take care of ourselves. We also list resources related to housing, financial, and health concerns/questions.

We’re in this together. Never forget, you are not alone. Remember to breathe. Focus on what you can control. And don’t miss this chance to practice active kindness to all.

May the joy and peace of Christmas be with you all through the Year. Wishing you a season of blessings from heaven above.

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Lost Creek Guide

Colorado FFA Foundation Postpones 2021 Farm Credit Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

The Colorado FFA Foundation announced today that their annual Farm Credit Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame induction ceremony, that typically takes place in late February will be postponed to May of 2021.

It is the hope of the board that by postponing the event until May that the Foundation will be able to deliver a high quality event and give the newest Hall of Fame inductees an induction ceremony worthy of their accomplishments that will allow for greater participation and safer gathering conditions. The tentative date is May 5, 2021. More information and invitations will be released in the Spring of 2021.

This year there will be three inductees into the Farm Credit Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame. Mr. Bob Dineen, Fort Lupton, Mr. Al Gerace, Arvada, and Mr. Nick Gray, (posthumous) formerly from Montrose, Colorado.

“We are excited to honor and recognize all three of these gentlemen this year. Their accomplishments are remarkable and have been impactful. We continue to be so impressed with the quality of candidates submitted each year” said Jenna H. Keller, Chair of the Colorado FFA Foundation.

Hosted by the Colorado FFA Foundation, the induction ceremony is held yearly to induct members into the Agriculture Hall of Fame who have significantly contributed to Colorado’s second largest industry. A unique, multi-media presentation will highlight the life of each new inductee during the ceremony. ### The Colorado FFA Foundation is a non-profit organization that raises funds to support the more than 7,000 FFA members in Colorado’s 120 chapters. FFA is a national organization of 625,000+ members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture.

December 16, 2020

Morgan County REA Returns $4 Million to Consumer-Members

BY DAVID FRICK GENERAL MANAGER, Morgan County REA It’s time for you to get the credit—capital credits, that is—for helping build, sustain and grow your local electric cooperative. This year, the Morgan County Rural Electric Association Board of Directors approved a patronage capital retirement of $4 million to those who were consumer-members of the cooperative in the years 2002, 2003, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. This is the largest capital retirement in the history of Morgan County REA. When you signed up to receive electric service from Morgan County REA, you became a consumermember of an electric utility. While investor-owned utilities return a portion of any profits back to their shareholders, electric co-ops operate on an at-cost basis. So instead of returning leftover funds, known as margins, to folks who might not live in the same region or even the same state as you, MCREA allocates and periodically retires capital credits (also called patronage capital) based on how much elecDavid Frick tricity you purchased during a year.

General Manager At the regular meeting on October 26, the Morgan County REA Board of Directors authorized patronage capital retirements totaling $4 million for a complete retirement of 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, and partial retirement of 2013 MCREA allocations, along with a complete retirement of 2002 and partial retirement of 2003 generation and transmission margin allocations. This year’s retirement is $1.25 million more than the 2019 patronage capital retirements, which came in at $2.75 million last year. That is an increase of $2 million more than the patronage capital retirements in 2016 and 2017, which came in at $2 million each year. The patronage capital retirements for this decade are more than the previous two decades combined.

This means consumer-members from those years will be sent a capital credits check in the mail this month, reflecting their contribution of capital to, and ownership of, the cooperative during those years. That may seem like a long time ago. However, those funds helped us manage rates, reduced the amount of money we needed to borrow from outside lenders to build, maintain, and expand a reliable electric distribution system, and covered emergency expenses.

Here are a few commonly asked questions about capital credits and their answers: What are capital credits (patronage capital)?

MCREA annually “allocates” capital credits to each consumer-member, based on the consumer-member’s purchase of electricity and operating revenue remaining at the end of the year. Later, as financial condition permits, these allocated amounts — capital credits — are retired. Since a cooperative’s consumer-members are also the people the co-op serves, capital credits reflect each consumer-member’s ownership in, and contribution of capital to, the cooperative.

Where does the money come from? Member-owned, not-for-profit electric co-ops set rates to generate enough money to pay operating costs, make payments on any loans and provide an emergency reserve. At the end of each year, we subtract operating expenses from the operating revenue collected during the year. The balance is called an operating “margin.”

How are margins allocated?

Margins are allocated to consumer- members as capital credits based on their purchases from the cooperative — how much power the consumer-member used. Member purchases may also be called patronage.

I didn’t receive electric service from Morgan County REA in those years. Will I get any retirement?

No. Capital credit retirements will only be made to consumer-members who purchased electricity in the years listed earlier.

What if I moved or didn’t receive a capital credits check?

If you move or no longer have electric service with Morgan County REA, it is important that you keep the cooperative informed of your current address, so that retirements can be properly mailed to you. If you purchased electricity during the years being retired, then you are entitled to a capital credit retirement, even if you move out of MCREA’s service area. Consumer-members can update their contact information on our website — www. mcrea.org — or by calling the MCREA billing department at 970-867- 5688 to make sure your capital credits check makes its way to you.

December 16, 2020

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Lost Creek Guide

-Obituaries-

ARNOLD ORVIN RIPPE

RAY E. SCHMIDT

Arnold Orvin Rippe was born April 18, 1932 near Atwood, Kansas to Emil and Leora (Johnson) Rippe. His family moved to Colorado in 1935 and settled southeast of Aurora, Colorado, where they started a small dairy and farm. Arnold quit school in the eighth grade to work on the family farm. Arnold spent the majority of his youth helping his father on the farm. Joining the workforce at a young age, he acquired many talents which he was able to apply later in his life. His best trait was figuring out what went wrong and how to fix it.

In 1951, Arnold was drafted into the Army and spent his active duty in Korea where he was wounded. He received the Purple Heart and was medically discharged. He came back to the family farm, also working at Montgomery Wards and mining beryllium.

On August 21, 1955, he married Nelda Holl at Hope Lutheran Church in Aurora, Colorado where they met. To this marriage, three children were born – two daughters and a son. They lived in southeast Aurora until 1962, moving to the Roggen, Colorado area where Arnold operated his own dairy.

Arnold served as an Elder and Treasurer and sang in the Choir at the Grace Lutheran Church in Hudson, Colorado.

Later in life, Arnold and his wife enjoyed traveling and visited places afar including Hawaii, Alaska and the Panama Canal.

Arnold is survived by his wife, Nelda of Roggen; daughters, Sherry (Lyle) Colemen of Imperial, Nebraska and Wanda Lambert of Deer Trail, Colorado; son, David (Sara) Rippe of Wiggins, Colorado; grandsons Joshua and Michael Van Scoten of Portland, Oregon; granddaughter, Kyle Rippe of Wiggins, Colorado; and one great granddaughter, Makayla Van Scoten of Portland, Oregon. Arnold was preceded in death by both of his parents; and a brother, Melvin.

Due to Covid restrictions, private funeral services will be held. For those that would like to view Arnold’s Funeral Service, you are welcome to visit www.TaborFuneralHome. com and click the “Click Here to Access the Video” box at the bottom of the obituary on Wednesday, December 11, 2020 beginning at 10:00 AM. Tabor Funeral Home, in Brighton, Colorado handled arrangements.

The Lord called his servant, Ray E. Schmidt home on Friday November 20, 2020. Ray was born in Fort Lupton, Colorado on October 2, 1932 to William and Edith Schmidt. He was welcomed at home by his brother A Forrest Schmidt.

Ray attended school in Fort Lupton, then went to Lamar Community College until he enlisted in the Navy. When the Navy discovered he played football in College, they put him on the Navy Football team. Ray served during the Korean War. When he was discharged from the Navy, he went on to play football for Colorado State University on a scholarship.

After college Ray’s good friend introduced him to the girl who would become his wife. Ray and Helen Abbott, of Prospect Valley, eloped on July 7, 1956. They enjoyed 58 years of marriage until Helen passed in June of 2014. They had three children; Scot of Texas, Terri of Fountain Hills, Az, and Robin of Fountain Hills Az. Ray also leaves behind three grandchildren; Kacy of Arizona, Rikki of California, and Dalton of Arizona. He is also survived by two sister-inlaws as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Ray loved animals and had many different pets. He loved working on the ranch they owned in Wyoming. He spent most of his working life as a lineman, working in Colorado for Rural Electric Company then in Wyoming for Pacific Power and Light. After retirement in 1985 Ray and Helen moved to Fountain Hills, AZ. In 2001 Helen and Ray moved to “The Wells” retirement park in Mesa, AZ. They lived there until their deaths.

Due to the COVID pandemic, no services are planned at this time. For those who wish to remember Ray with a donation, they may give to their favorite Veteran program in his name.

DONALD DEAN KIPP Donald Dean Kipp, 89 of Keenesburg, CO passed away on December 3, 2020. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Dean was born on March 28, 1931 to William F. and Daisy L ( Dean) Kipp. He grew up in the Keenesburg area and after completing his education, he worked with his dad and brothers on the farm.

He joined the Army in February 1953 and in July he married the love of his life Barbara Jean Mallory. Shortly after the wedding, he was shipped overseas to serve his time in the military for the next 18 months. Dean was discharged from the Army in February 1955.

He began working on a dairy in the Keenesburg area. In January 1956, a daughter was born, Sharon Marie. Dean later worked on a dairy in the Wiggins area. This is when a son, Danny Ray was born in March 1957. Dean began working for the Ysidro Dairy in Fort Morgan in 1958 until 1963. Another daughter was born in to the family in July of 1963, Darla Joan. Soon after Darla arrived, the family moved back to the Keenesburg area where Dean became employed by the Gingerich Turkey farm. In January 1969, he started working for the Weld Central High School as a custodian and school bus driver. A perfect fit for him as he loved the companionship of the students and staff. Dean was a friend to everyone. Dean retired in March 1995, but this didn’t slow him down. He enjoyed watching the Denver Broncos, the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Rockies. He loved woodworking in his shop. Dean enjoyed gardening in the summer and was proud of all the tomatoes he could grow and give away. He loved Christmas time and was adamant about decorating his yard so everyone in the community could enjoy the lights. Dean enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles to help pass his time during cold weather.

Dean is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jean, and his children, Sharon (Bill) Lookhart of LaSalle, CO, Danny (Glenda) Kipp of Keenesburg, CO and Darla (Gene) Yamada of Spring Hill, KS. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren, Brandon Rodriguez of Greeley, Tasha (Nate) Huckfeldt of Greeley, Scott Kipp of Keenesburg, John Kipp of Trinidad, CO, Adam (Stephanie) Yamada of Commerce City, CO and Justin (Kayle) Yamada of Shawnee, KS. He is survived by 3 step-grandchildren, Danny Lookhart of Greeley, Dustin Lookhart of Evans, and Tasha Williamson of Fort Collins. Also surviving are 6 great granddaughters, 3 step great granddaughters and 2 step great grandsons. Dean is survived by a brother, Paul of Pinedale,WY and two sisters, Eva Davis of Greeley and Cecelia Warren of Cedaredge,CO. He was preceeded in death by his parents, William F. and Daisy Kipp and 3 brothers, William Kipp, Jr. Robert Kipp, and Charles Kipp.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Prospect Community Church. Viewing will take place at Stoddard Mortuary from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Thursday, December 10, 2020.

Graveside service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, December 11, 2020 at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

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Lost Creek Guide

Start Taking Care of Your Skin to Keep You Young and Healthy!

Did you know, that your skin is the largest organ on your body? Yes! Let start taking care of it to keep you young and healthy!

My name is Taylor Tyler, I have been a licensed Esthetician going on 6 years in 2021. I have a medical aesthetic back ground, while specializing in more holistic facials. Acne is my jam, I love helping teenagers (and adults) achieve clear skin since I have struggled with acne myself. I relocated my business from Brighton to Keenesburg in August because my husband and I have moved out east. I have had the best time meeting and treating all of my new lovely clients and fellow businesses on Main Street.

I am also a Professional Makeup Artist, I travel all through Colorado for wedding, photoshoots, and engagement photos. Here at Taylor Tyler LLC, I offer facials, microdermabrasion, dermaplane, chemical peels, waxing, tinting, makeup application, makeup lessons and retail skincare products. I am so excited for next year because a lot more services will be added! If you have any questions about your skin, your kids skin or just want to be pampered, please don’t hesitate to call! Gift Certificates are also available for your Christmas shopping. I am appointment only due to state guidelines. Mention this article in, The Lost Creek Guide, and receive a Custom Facial for $45 (regular $70.) I am thrilled to be in this new community of lovely people.

Call: 303-709-4731 Email: tayloranntyler@gmail.com Online Booking:https://square.site/book/8E607YHDC3E67/taylor-tyler-llc-keenesburg-co “Healthy skin is a reflection of overall wellness.” - Howard Murad MD

December 16, 2020

Governor and CDPHE Director Hold Call with Commissioners; Praise County’s Stance on Individual Reponsibility

WELD COUNTY, CO — During a 30-minute conference call this afternoon among the Weld County Board of Commissioners, Governor Jared Polis and Colorado Public Health and Environment Director Jill Ryan, the state complemented Weld County in its COVID-19 response and encouraged continued messaging promoting individual responsibility, while discussing differences in approach.

Commissioner Chair Mike Freeman kicked off the call acknowledging the rise in cases across the state and reaffirming the work the county has continued to do since the start of the pandemic in March, “I think we are continuing to do everything Weld County can do to help slow the spread,” said Freeman. “Our health department is working very hard with contact tracing; we continue to put messages out. And that’s what we are doing in Weld County.”

Although Polis’ response to Freeman’s remarks challenged whether or not that approach was working, Polis acknowledged that the problem was “ a social and psychological challenge” as people know how to prevent the spread of the virus and they’ve been doing it successful for months in Colorado including in Weld County. Polis asked the Board if there were other ideas about messaging or changing people’s behavior.

Weld County Commissioner Kevin Ross explained the county believes they are “working within the confines that we legally are constrained to,” and listed the multiple outreach efforts, information-sharing and new software implemented by the health department to assist with contact tracing.

When Polis asked the board how many county employees were teleworking, the difference between leadership approaches became apparent. Polis, who stated approximately 65% of the state’s employees were telecommuting, seemed surprised that most of Weld County’s employees continue to provide in-person services.

“We actually expect people to work and provide the services that are necessary for all the other people that are within our county,” said Commissioner Barbara Kirkmeyer. “We believe we have been setting a good model. We have Humans Services, Health Department Services, Public Works, as you stated, we’ve got the Correctional Facilities with our jail; basically, every single one of our employees we consider critical mission employees, and we expect them to provide services and that we should demonstrate to our constituents that county government is open for business and we are doing it in a safe and responsible manner.”

“That’s great you’re being the role model,” Polis responded, going on to agree not all positions can telework.

Leading with responsive, innovative and cost effective services. Weld County – Proud to be Debt Free since 2007!

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube Shifting topics, director of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Jill Ryan said, “I compliment Weld County.” She went on to explain how her department looks at transmission rates across the state and “For months and months and months, Weld County held pretty steady, and you were much lower than other counties. And I know one of the reasons was you have a really sophisticated public health department that we work with often.”

She continued to explain the reason the state was sounding the alarm with regard to the rise of COVID-19 cases was because of the increased workload for contact tracers. In her request that people not interact with other households during November, as that is where the state is seeing transmission, Ryan echoed Polis’ comments saying, “It’s about winning hearts and minds. It’s about psychology…these measures only go so far. We would just love leadership amplifying we all need to pull together this month and reduce our interactions, basically. It’s a personal behavior thing, really. We all have choices. We don’t have the COVID police running around giving people tickets for this or anything. We’re really sort of all on our honor system.”

Polis also brought up the issue of concern regarding hospital capacity.

Commissioner Kevin Ross asked the Governor to help provide insight into the state’s decision to demobilize the alternate care facility at the Ranch in Loveland if hospital capacity was a concern.

“We aren’t hearing from our hospitals that they are even anywhere near capacity or that they’re being overwhelmed,” said Kirkmeyer. The Board elaborated that the county heath department reports on hospital capacity daily and engages with regional hospitals weekly to stay up to date on their needs.

Polis explained that as a group the hospitals have sounded the alarm bells with the state but said it was “welcome news” about the county not hearing concerns from the hospitals that serve Weld residents.

Continuing on the topic of hospital data, Commissioner Scott James asked Polis if the state had considered changing the state dial-metric to focus more on hospital resources and assets as that is what is driving the concern with COVID-19.

Polis and Ryan both acknowledged that question had come up before from other counties and that the age range of people getting the virus does impact that resource.

James concluded his remarks by thanking the Governor for entrusting the people of Weld County to make the decisions that are right for themselves.

“Ultimately, this is a matter of individual responsibility,” said Polis. “It’s on us as public officials to do two things and one is test and surge, you’ve been a great partner in that, and the other is the hospital surge…but the biggest part is just on people. It’s about individual responsibility as you indicated.”

Polis continued by saying, “And I think as elected officials all of us just need to echo that theme of individual responsibility. I mean, you all are trusted public officials making the right choices and informing people that they need to make the right choices for them and their families.”

December 16, 2020

Bombshell Bling Salon

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Lost Creek Guide

70 S. Main Street, Keenesburg, CO 80643 303 – 501- 0730

Bombshell Bling Salon was first opened by Cheyenne Stolz in August 2017 as a hair salon and women’s boutique. In a little over three years, we have grown to have a fond relationship with the community and many of the people in it. Recently we purchased the building and were able to renovate it to give it a fresh, new, look that is much more fitting to the upscale experience we are looking to provide our clients.

Hair by Cheyenne Stolz Luxury Hair Extensions Women’s haircuts Hair Color Nails by Kari Fortunato Acrylic Nails Massage – by Charlotte Linnebur Prenatal Deep Tissue Swedish Hot Stone Spray Tanning

Left to right: Cheyenne Stolz, Kari Fortunato, Charlotte Linnebur

Merry Christmas

and only the best to you in the New Year!

Holiday Hours:

Close at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve & New Year’s Eve Closed Christmas & New Year’s Day

OPEN 8 am - 6:30 pm M-F 8 am - 6 pm Sat. & Sun.

Colorado State University Extension: Your Source for Research Based Information

By Amy Kelley, CSU Extension Director, Morgan County In today’s technological age it can be quite difficult to weed through information and determine what is factual. Whether you are looking for the proper method to can green beans, how to handle a dying tree, or to identify a pest in your garden it is paramount to have information from a source that can be trusted. This is where Colorado State University Extension is able to help people. The mission statement of CSU Extension is to empower Coloradans to address important and emerging community issues using dynamic, science-based educational resources.

Extension has been around for over 100 years. In 1914 the Smith-Lever Act established Extension services under the umbrella of land-grant universities. The purpose was to allow research based information from the university to be shared to those in the community, utilizing Extension to do so. The idea of Extension Agents, who would in counties to be a liaison between the university and the county, was also born at that time.

The history of 4-H begins ever earlier. The idea of 4-H clubs began in the 1800’s when universities realized that advancements in farming were not being well readily accepted by adults. The idea of teaching adults by teaching their children was born. The true start of the 4-H program actually occurred in 1902 when A.B. Graham started a youth program in Clark County, Ohio. The first club had two names, “Tomato Club” and a “Corn Growing Club.” That same year in Minnesota agricultural after-school clubs and fairs began. Female participation was seen after Gardening and Sewing clubs were developed. As early as 1910 4-H clubs were seen in Colorado, as part of an outreach mission by CSU (at that time Colorado A&M). In 1912 these youth clubs were officially known as 4-H clubs In Colorado, Extension falls under the guidance of Colorado State University. The only difference between the two is that while CSU is located in Fort Collins you will find CSU Extension in all 64 counties. Whether you have a question about health, financial literacy, pasture or livestock management, weeds, pests or gardens, 4-H or youth development, renewable energy, elder or child-care issues, CSU Extension has access to faculty and staff with expertise in that area and that are willing to assist anyone.

CSU Extension has had a long and rich history in Morgan County. Information about crops and livestock was very important to agriculture producers in the county at the turn of the 20th century, as well as home economics and economic development. Also, the 4-H youth development program that allowed youth to learn hands-on skills that would benefit their families was very popular.

Today Morgan County CSU Extension is a study in both representing the past and embracing the future. Just like in the 1900’s the office acts as a liaison between CSU and the county. Research based information is made readily available. However, the readily available topic areas have expanded greatly and include agriculture, horticulture, range, forestry, water, health promotion, financial literacy, business management, community development and 4-H. Much like since the inception of Extension, in office consultations, site visits, and group programs are still held. With advancements in technology have come new methods of connecting with the county, including emails, webinars, webpages, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Extension Agents specializing in 4-H, Agronomy, Horticulture, Livestock, and Consumer Sciences can be found in the Morgan County Extension Office, but resources in all topic areas are available.

Regardless of how you would like to receive the information, when you are looking for straightforward, research-based, usable information, make your first stop CSU Extension.

You won’t need to go any further.

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Page 12

Eggs as a Powerful Protein

Lost Creek Guide

By Joanna Harris, Former Morgan County Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Protein is an important aspect of our daily diets. We consume protein in several different foods. A few examples of protein sources included, eggs, meats, nuts and legumes and poultry. Each protein source provides our body with nutrients. Meat protein provides the most zinc, poultry provides the most niacin and eggs provide a good amount of choline.

Eggs are an easy source of protein and are able to fuel our bodies for a busy day ahead.

According to NHANES, children and adolescents ages 2- 18 years showed that consuming eggs have a greater intake of protein, polyunsaturated, monounsaturated and total fat, vitamin D and potassium compared to non-egg consumers. We all know that there are several different ways to prepare eggs. Some of the most common ways to cook eggs include boiling, poaching, fried, scrambled and even baked. When eggs are cooked the protein becomes more digestible. Below are a few tips to cooking eggs in order to meet your protein needs.

Season your eggs for more flavor Make quiche or egg pies to get kids more excited about eggs and incorporate vegetables.

Experiment with each cooking method.

Combine eggs with vegetables This method often adds extra fiber and vitamins to your eggs Choose low calorie cooking methods Poached or boiled eggs are the best choice when looking at calories.

Don’t overcook eggs The longer and hotter you cook eggs the more nutrients you can lose.

Overall, when looking for a good source of protein eggs are always a good option. Eggs have great nutrient value, are easy to cook and loved by many. Not only are you able to cook eggs several different ways but you are also able to enjoy there nutrient value in each cooking method. Eggs are a great source of powerful protein and other nutrients.

Source: Nutrition Close Up.2019 “Protein Foods from a Variety of Sources Contribute to Nutrient Adequacy.” Egg Nutrition Center.

December 16, 2020

Crop Nutrient Management: A way to Lower the Production Cost Associated with Commercial Fertilizers

By Wilma Trujillo, Area Extension Agent Crop nutrient management refers to managing crop fertility inputs and other production practices for efficient crop growth while protecting the environment. A nutrient management plan (NMP) is a tool that identifies the nutrient needs (in terms of timing and amount) of a giving crop or crop rotation to minimize undesired environmental effects while optimizing farm profits and production.

The primary reasons for having a NMP are to: Achieve a balance between all nutrient sources and crop nutrient uptake/removal Maintain an adequate supply of nutrients for plant production Ensure that manure or other organic by-products applied are maximized as a plant nutrient source Minimize the pollution of surface and ground water resources from excess nutrients Manage the physical, chemical and biological condition of soils for future crop production.

Crop nutrient management applies to all fertility crop inputs whether organic materials or inorganic commercial fertilizers. The management plans must be site-specific, appropriate to the soil characteristics (physical and chemical), landscapes, and management objectives of the farm.

Having a NMP in place can be useful from an economic standpoint by helping you manage costs associated with nutrient input from commercial fertilizer, animal manure and other organic by-product applications. It can also be beneficial in instances where a strategy is needed to deal with excess nutrients.

The basic components of a NMP are: Soil information for each field or management unit. Soil test results for pH, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

Realistic yield expectations for the crop(s) to be grown,based primarily on the producer’s actual yield history.

List of all nutrient sources (e. g manure, organic by-products, irrigation water, nitrogen contribution to the soil from legumes grown in the rotation, inorganic fertilizers) Lists of crops and crop rotations by field Nutrients required to reach yield potential.

Nutrient uptake by the crop and removal in the harvest An environmental risk assessment to determine the potential for offsite movement of nutrients on a field-by-field basis. Soil organic matter, soil permeability, field slopes, distance to surface water are used to determine the probability of nutrient movement in the landscape Good records on the rate, method and timing of all nutrient applications Annual review and update If you need technical assistance to develop a plan, contact your local county Extension Office, the local Conservation District Office and the USDA-Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS).

The following web sites provide more information on NMP: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/landuse/crops/npm http://www.extsoilcrop.colostate.edu/Soils/region8/nrcs/colorado/CO590.pdf

December 16, 2020

What’s the Real Purpose of Youth 4-H Livestock Projects

Lost Creek Guide

Marlin Eisenach, Extension Livestock Agent One purpose is to teach young people how to feed, fit and show their animals. The more important purpose is to provide an opportunity for personal growth and development of the young person.

The Josephson Institute of Ethics has developed a curriculum which identifies six core values which may help to better describe the value of youth livestock projects. This curriculum also presents the idea that people develop and strengthen character by practicing certain behaviors just as muscles are built through exercise.

Therefore, the purpose of the youth livestock program is to provide opportunities for young people to develop character. The character traits identified and some practices that may build character follow: Trustworthiness - includes honesty, promise-keeping and loyalty. daily feeding, watering of animals (promise-keeping) only the appropriate use of approved drugs adheres to withdrawal times on drugs and de-wormer Respect - includes courtesy and proper treatment of people and things. proper handling of animals, treat humanely proper care of animals listens to and follows advice of advisors accepts winning or losing with grace recognizes that animal projects are dependent on 4-H’er and provides daily feed and water Responsibility - includes the pursuit of excellence, accountability and perseverance. daily feeding and watering (even on the busy, difficult days) goes beyond providing the daily needs of the animal in giving additional time and attention to produce a winner adheres to deadlines for entry forms and for arrival at livestock shows never gives up in the show ring (perseverance) Fairness - consistently applying rules & standards appropriately for different age groups and ability levels. adheres to withdrawal times on drugs and de-wormer feeds only approved livestock rations only the appropriate use of approved drugs adheres to possession deadlines (honesty) fitting and grooming of animals and conduct in the show ring; follows recommended procedure Caring - promoting the well being of people and things in a young person’s world. It denotes action and not just feelings daily feeding and watering provides clean barn/stall for animal treats animal humanely at all times.

Citizenship - includes making the home community and county a better place to live for themselves and others. accepting instructions winning and losing with grace helping others at stock shows teaching younger members treating animals humanely ensuring that your meat animal is safe for consumption

Page 13

Plan Now for 2021 Healthier Weigh Challenge

The 2021 “A Healthier Weigh” challenge is set to begin in Morgan County in early January. This challenge encourages increasing activity, making wise food choices, and living a healthier lifestyle in 2021. The annual 12-week Health and Fitness Challenge will take on a theme of Make 2021 Your Healthiest Year! Surely this year we have all learned the importance of improving and maintaining our health; and this program is designed to help you focus on your health.

Through increased activity and making wise food choices, participants in previous years have lost an average of 3 percent to 5 percent of their beginning weight during the 12 weeks, and up to 6 percent of their beginning waist circumference. Since the program promotes overall health and fitness and not just weight loss, weekly weigh-in is not required. Even in 2020 with the program ending during the first COVID stay at home orders, 132 participants completed the challenge and lost a total of 1095 pounds and over 310 inches from their waists.

The 12-week health and fitness challenge begins with weigh-ins on Tuesday, January 5th. Participants in the challenge will begin recording their daily activity using pedometers, phone apps or wearable fitness tracking devices. Participants will be encouraged to add more physical activity into their lives through daily and weekly routines, as well as special recreation opportunities. Participants will weigh out the last week of March. Both times participants will have access to the InBody - Body Composition Analysis scan to provide details of lean body mass, body fat mass and water/hydration, & BMR. Besides earning weekly points for activity, teams earn points for weight loss based on a percentage of the team’s original weight, and percent of inches lost around their waists.

Cash prizes are awarded at the conclusion of the challenge in the categories of Physical Activity, Weight Loss, Waists Reduced, and Overall Challenge. .

The program is open to adults, 18 years of age and older. Participants have the option to compete as a team, couple or individuals. A team consists of four individuals. Businesses are also welcomed to participate by having employee teams. The cost is $160 or $40 per person to participate.

You must sign-up by Tuesday, December 29th to participate in 2021. You can do so by calling the Morgan County Extension Office at 970-542-3545 or emailing amy.kelley@ colostate.edu. After signing up you will then be asked to select a weigh-in time (teams do not all have to weigh at the same time) and receive a registration packet that is due at your weigh-in time on Tuesday, January 5th.

Page 14

We Need a Little Christmas

Lost Creek Guide

I received a Christmas ornament from a delightful woman in our church. It was a 2020 ornament. Here are some of the wonderful memories that are depicted on this ornament: Wash your hands; travel ban; what’s your temp; the new normal; stay at home; curbside pickup; essential workers; social distancing; toilet paper shortage; binge-watching; stores closing for good; Zoom. Now that is only about half of the items on this ornament!

It sure has been a year, hasn’t it? Add to that previous list the fires that made our skies fill with smoke and ash; the election cycle, and all the stuff that was going on in cities across our nation…boy, it sure has been a year!

We have been receiving some small glimpses of hope, such as the vaccine and a stop to the violence in the streets…but we still have a long way to go.

We need a little Christmas! Right this very minute!

We need to once again be filled with words like hope; promise; love; sharing! We need to start to respect ourselves and one another! We need to see the good, instead of the bad!

We need to bring ourselves to an understanding that we are all sinners, saved by grace alone!

Yes, we do need a little Christmas! Right this very minute!

I hope that whatever it is that you are doing today, you take some time out and read the Isaiah 9 passages: or the Luke story of the birth of Jesus. If you don’t have a Bible handy, Google it!

There you will find the story of a child whose name was Immanuel, God-With-UsI The One who came to save us all from our sins. The Real reason for the season.

After all, it is Christmas! We need a little music! Need a little laughter! Need a little singing ringing through the rafter! We need a little snappy ‘Happy Ever After.”! We need a little Christmas NOW! Be Well, Do Good Work, and…

Be Blessed Like Crazy!

Pastor Perry Destination Ministries

Merry Christmas from Our Family to Yours!

December 16, 2020

Will House Democrats Lose 54 or 63 Seats in 2022?

by Newt Gingrich As the House Democrats try to understand why their expected gains in 2020 turned out to be substantial losses, they should take a minute to reflect on the disastrous results of the midterms of 1994 and 2010 – the last midterm elections after new Democratic presidents were elected.

In 1994, I led the House GOP as we won a majority for the first time in 40 years. At the ballot boxes, the American people repudiated the Democrats’ leftwing policies, including tax increases, a huge health care proposal (Hillarycare), and efforts at gun control. Their vote was also a statement against President Bill Clinton’s dramatic shift to the left after he had campaigned as a moderate but went along with the leftwing of Congress as president.

In 1994, Republicans gained 6.4 percent to earn 51.5 percent of the total vote, while the Democrats dropped 5.4 percent to end up with a total of 44.7 percent of the vote. I went from minority whip to Speaker of the House while Democratic Speaker Tom Foley was defeated for re-election.

While the Republicans had not been re-elected as a majority since 1930 (64 Years) we established a reputation for keeping our word with the Contract with America. Reforming welfare, passing the largest capital gains tax cut in history, reforming the US Food and Drug Administration, overhauling federal communication laws, and balancing the budget for four straight years gave House Republicans enough support from the American people to hold the majority for 12 years.

In the second midterm of President George W Bush, the House Republicans collapsed. With an aggressive campaign led by then-Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, House Democrats earned 52.3 percent of the vote and gained 31 seats. However, the House Democratic victory lasted only four years.

Two years after President Barack Obama was elected, the leftwing policies on taxes, social issues, and health care led to a sharp return for the House Republicans. In 2010, Republicans gained 9.1 percent of the vote to a total of 51.7 percent while the Democrats were down 8.3 percent to 44.9 percent of the vote. Speaker Pelosi again became Minority Leader Pelosi, and Minority Leader John Boehner became Speaker Boehner. After Obama’s second election in 2012, House Republicans only gained 13 seats overall – but that created the largest Republican majority since 1928.

The 2020 House elections may prove to be a harbinger of things to come. The Democrats and their leftwing media allies had been cheerfully predicting that they would gain 15 seats or more because of President Donald Trump’s unpopularity. Instead, the brilliant recruiting by Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy and his team (including Whip Steve Scalise, Conference Chair Liz Cheney, National Republican Congressional Committee Chair Tom Emmer, and Congresswoman Elise Stefanik) – and the resources they amassed to offset the Democrats – led to a House Republican gain of eight seats, so far – and potentially more.

Speaker Pelosi is now being forced to try to lead the House with (currently) a 220-204 lead – and Republicans appear to be leading in eight of the 11 undecided races in California, Iowa, New York, and Louisiana. If these races go as expected, it will be a 223-212 Democratic majority. That means losing six Democratic seats in 2022 will give Kevin McCarthy control of the floor.

In a similar circumstance in 1998, when we expected to gain 15 seats during the impeachment of President Bill Clinton and instead lost five seats, I resigned because the House GOP conference was deeply disappointed in the outcome. They were afraid of sliding into the minority (four years of being chairpersons rather than ranking members had taught them the value of majority status).

Now, Speaker Pelosi must face a Democratic Caucus whose members have not yet absorbed that they control far fewer seats than they had expected the day before the election. The Democrats who care about being in the majority must ask themselves what they need to do to survive as a majority when the historic precedents indicate they will have a disastrous 2022.

As a sign of the remarkable House Republican dominance at the polls, the Charlie Cook Political Report had listed 27 House races as “toss-ups” because they were too close to predict. Of those 27 House races, Republicans won every single one. They also won every GOP-leaning race.

Even more exciting for long term House Republican supporters like me, these victories came with a much broader and more competitive set of candidates.

As Henry Olsen wrote in The Washington Post: “At least 33 House Republicans will be either women or non-White when the new body sits in January. This includes 27 women, six Hispanics, and two Black men, Burgess Owens of Utah and Byron Donalds of Florida. They come from all regions of the country and represent urban, suburban and rural seats.

“In fact, every seat Republicans have flipped from blue to red has been captured by a woman or a minority. This wasn’t an accident. Aided by efforts by the National Republican Congressional Committee and Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.), GOP officials strenuously tried to recruit capable female and non-White candidates for as many pickup opportunities as possible. These efforts could bear even more fruit, as two other women and one Hispanic — Mariannette Miller-Meeks in Iowa, Claudia Tenney in New York and Mike Garcia in California — might still win the seats they are contesting.”

The story of a positive, inclusive, idea- and solution-oriented House Republican Party is going to make both candidate recruitment and fundraising much easier.

As donors and supporters realize how close we are to a Speaker McCarthy era, his ability to recruit candidates and to fund those candidates is going to go up dramatically.

Conversely, Speaker Pelosi will increasingly be seen as embattled in a House she presides over but cannot lead. She will be hamstrung by her narrow partisan margin – and by the deep and increasingly angry split between the radical wing and the moderates (who know that socialism and the Green New Deal are going to defeat Democrats if these principles define them).

Finally, just as President Trump drove Democrats together and gave them a common focus of their energy, the Biden-Harris administration and its radical appointees (most of them politically unaware of how destructive their views are outside their own circles) will make it much easier for House Republicans to hang together.

I don’t know if the House Democratic losses in 2022 will be as big as 1994 or 2010, but I am convinced they will be big enough to make McCarthy the next Speaker of the House.

December 16, 2020

Meet the 4-H Family - The Parks

Page 15

Lost Creek Guide

Article By Madison Richmann All five of the Park kids can agree that their favorite part of 4-H is the competition between them and their friends. Cassidy, Averie, Bailee, Oliver, and Emmett Park live in Wiggins, Colorado. The Parks are a part of the Keene Boosters 4-H club, with Brenda Garcia as their club leader. Exhibiting at both SEWC fair and Weld Country fair is ahighlight of all 5 of the Park kids summers.

Cassidy Park is a 18 year old senior at Weld Central Highschool.

He is a part of Weld Central’s FFA program, along with 4-H. Cassidy has shown goats for 2 years, and shot in shooting sports for 3 years. Cassidy says, “Unfortunately after this year I will be too old to continue in 4-H, but if I could I would.� When he finishes highschool he plans on joining the Navy to do some mechanical work. Cassidy says his biggest accomplishment in 4-H has been his 4th place wins, and making the sale. When not showing his goats, Cassidy’s favorite part about the SEWC fair is hanging out with his friends. He also enjoys hunting, fishing, working on cars, and video games. 4-H has taught the oldest Park kid how to be responsible and have a good work ethic. Cassidy says, “I would recommend 4-H to other students because it is a great way to get involved with your community, learn new things, and figure out your hobbies.�

Averie Park is a 15 year old sophomore at Weld Central Highschool. Like her older brother, Averie is a part of both Weld Central’s FFA program, along with 4-H. The 15 year old has been showCassidy Park ing goats and doing woodworking projects for 2 years, and has done a self determination project for 1 year. When asked about her 2020 project, Averie says, “I named my goat, Lennie Smalls from Of Mice and Men . I made a sale at the Weld County fair.� Averie also explains that 4-H has taught her how to be responsible and to work hard for what she wants. When not working on her projects, Averie enjoys softball, being at the lake, reading, and welding. After highschool she hopes to go to college to play softball while studying to get a degree in civil engineering or architectural drafting. Averie agrees with Cassidy and says, “ I would recommend 4-H to other kids because it teaches you the value of hard work.�

Bailee Park, the middle child of the Parks, is a 14th year old freshman at Weld Central. She is also a part of FFA and 4-H. Bailee follows her two older siblings, showing goats for two years, and she has done archery and knitting for three years. Bailee’s favorite part of the SEWC fair is the rodeo. Bailee says, “4-H has taught me how hard animals are to care for, and how much I like animals.� The 14 year olds biggest 4-H accomplishment is making it to the livestock sale with her goat. When asked about her 2020 project, Bailee says, “My goat’s name was Milo, and I got 6th place at the fair.� She says Averie Park that she would recommend 4-H because it keeps you active. Bailee hopes to continue in 4-H and FFA, and eventually go to college to become a hairdresser. Along with her projects, Bailee enjoys playing softball, riding her horse, going to the lake, and hanging out with her family and friends.

Oliver Park is a 10 year old 5th grader at Cardinal Community Academy. He has been showing goats, shooting shotgun in shooting sports, and doing woodworking for two years now. Oliver agrees with his older sister, Bailee that the best part of the SEWC fair is the rodeo. Oliver’s 2020 project did not go as he would have liked. His goat Otis, got sick in the middle of his project and had to be put down. Although he did not have good luck this year, Oliver has a big accomplishment of making the livestock sale his first year showing goats. Oliver says that 4-H has taught him to work hard and his favorite part of 4-H is when he gets to buy his goat.

Basketball, football, baseball, wakeboarding and tubing are some of Oliver’s other hobbies. Although he is only 10, he is Bailee Park already looking forward to his future where he hopes to become a fireman. Oliver can agree that he would recommend 4-H to other students because you get to meet a lot of new people and make new friends.

Last but not least, Emmett Park is the youngest of the Park kids. At 8 years old, Emmett attends Cardinal Community Academy as a third grader. He has been a cloverbud in 4-H for three years, and is looking forward to his first year of showing this coming year. Emmett knows that he will show goats next year, but he is not sure whether he would like to do woodworking or leatherworking as well. He says that his biggest inspirations are his parents, and his four older siblings. 4-H so far has taught the 8 year old responsibility and how to work well with others. Although Emmett did not have a 4-H project this year because he was not old enough, he did have two goats that he named Tom and Brownie. Emmett’s favorite part of the SEWC fair is when he gets to Mutton Bust or ride Mini Bulls during the rodeo.

Oliver Park In his short career, Emmett’s biggest accomplishment in 4-H is helping one of his friends show their goat in the goat show and taking the goat to the Grand Champion drive. Emmett likes playing many sports including, baseball, football, and wrestling and enjoys video games, working with his animals, and fishing and hunting with his older siblings. “When I grow up I want to be a farmer and an electrical lineman,� says young Emmett.

He would recommend other students get involved with 4-H because you can gain a lot of confidence and achieve great things.

The Park kids would like to give special thanks to their parents, Nicole and Shane Park for their support so they can continue to do what they love. Make sure to keep your eye out for the Park kids as they continue their 4-H journey. We wish you good luck Cassidy, Averie, Bailee, Emmett Park Oliver, and Emmett.

Ladies of Grace Cookie Sale

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Weld County Farm Named as Agricultural Heritage Site

Lost Creek Guide

WELD COUNTY, CO — On Monday, the Weld County Board of Commissioners formally designated the Von Trotha-Firestien Farm as an Agricultural Heritage Site. The farm is the first to receive the designation since the board approved Agriculture Heritage Sites as part of Chapter 23 zoning changes on November 16.

“This designation of the Von Trotha-Firestien Farm as an Agricultural Heritage Site is a testament to its impact and legacy in Weld County,” said Commissioner Chair Mike Freeman.

“Today’s resolution extends protections for the Von TrothaFirestien Farm against future development, which preserves its value to the agricultural landscape of the county.”

On May 12, 2009, the Von Trotha-Firestien Farm was registered as one of the historic farms and ranches of Weld County on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior. It was identified as such for its long association, beginning at the turn of the 20th century, with irrigated farming and livestock feeding on 49 acres in Weld County. Over the farm’s 109 years in operation, more than 93 years were directly associated with the Von Trotha and Firestien families. The farm helped Greeley and Weld County develop technologically and economically thanks to irrigation and sugar beet cultivation as well as recycling building materials for use elsewhere. A perfect example of this is when the Von Trotha family dismantled three clay tile brick silos from other properties they owned to utilize the brick for construction of the farmhouse.

Ruth and Judy Firestien, who couldn’t attend the board meeting, asked Commissioner Scott James to read a statement from their family.

“We would like to thank the Weld County Commissioners for honoring our farm by designating it as an Agricultural Heritage Site,” Commissioner James said, reading an email from the Firestien’s. “Our farm has a rich history of agricultural endeavors, and it’s nice to further honor the agricultural history with this designation.”

December 16, 2020

Walter Borneman: Few Pearl Harbor Survivors Remain – yet 79 Years Later, They Still Inspire Only 2 Arizona crew members who were at Pearl Harbor that Sunday are still with us

By Walter R. Borneman | Fox News The number of World War II veterans who survived Pearl Harbor is dwindling, but the stories of their sacrifice will always endure and inspire.

Seventy-nine years ago, on the morning of Dec. 7, 1941, there were 38 sets of brothers stationed on the battleship Arizona. Most were children of the Great Depression.

They had joined the Navy and Marines not out of a quest to see the world but for a steady paycheck. The $5 or $10 many sent home every month out of their meager pay of $36 put food on the family table for Mickey Ganitch was on the USS Pennsylvania in dry dock in younger siblings.

Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

In a world at peace, there had not seemed to be any serious danger to brothers serving together on warships.

Family ties were judged as good thing. An older brother in uniform was better than any recruiting poster.

Economic necessity aside, the decision to enlist was particularly easy when an older brother led the way. As one sailor wrote his mother, “I am safer on this battleboat than I would be driving back and forth to work if I was home.”

Thomas Murdock stuck it out in the poverty of the farmland of northern Alabama until he was 21 and then took a bus ride to Birmingham to enlist. Younger brother Luther signed up in the fall of 1934 and kid brother Melvin followed in the spring of 1938. They all ended up serving together on the Arizona.

On the morning of Dec. 7, Thomas was ashore in Honolulu with his wife, but brothers Luther and Melvin were at their battle stations tending to boilers in the bowels of the Arizona. A horrendous explosion destroyed the ship and snuffed out their lives in seconds.

It is up to us to remember their sacrifices and continue to tell their stories.

Out of the Arizona’s crew of 1,500 men, 1,177 sailors and Marines, from an admiral to the greenest recruit, died. Out of 78 men with a brother aboard, only 15 survived the surprise attack – a staggering 80% casualty rate.

None of those surviving brothers remain alive today, but all lived their lives with enormous personal grief and sometimes, profound survivor’s guilt.

Only two men from the Arizona’s crew who were at Pearl Harbor that Sunday morning are still with us: Louis Conter and Ken Potts. Three of their comrades, Lauren Bruner, Lonnie Cook and Donald Stratton, passed away in the last year or so.

Video Four years ago, as we began the round of 75th anniversaries from World War II, I wrote that the surviving veterans of that conflict stood poised to receive one last round of salutes. Left unsaid was the sad reality that by the beginning of the 80th anniversary of 1941 events, there would be so very few of them left.

The 78 brothers on the Arizona were literal brothers in blood. Their stories cast a profoundly personal light on one of America’s darkest days of infamy.

But all who served are brothers and sisters in arms. And so to Luther and Melvin Murdock, to Louis Conter and Ken Potts, to the crew of the Arizona, and to all the men and women who have ever served our country in uniform, we say thank you; thank you from an ever grateful nation.

It is up to us to remember their sacrifices and continue to tell their stories.

December 16, 2020

Lost Creek Guide

Proclamation on National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, 2020

On the morning of December 7, 1941, Imperial Japanese forces ambushed the Naval Station Pearl Harbor on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Tragically, 2,403 Americans perished during the attack, including 68 civilians. On this National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we solemnly honor and uphold the memory of the patriots who lost their lives that day — “a date which will live in infamy” — and we reflect on the courage of all those who served our Nation with honor in the Second World War. Seventy nine years ago, Imperial Japan launched an unprovoked and devastating attack on our Nation. As torpedo bombers unleashed their deadly cargo on our ships and attack aircraft rained bombs from above, brave members of the United States Navy, Marines, Army, and Army Air Forces mounted a heroic defense, manning their battle stations and returning fire through the smoke and chaos. The profound bravery in the American resistance surprised Japanese aircrews and inspired selfless sacrifice among our service members. In one instance, Machinist’s Mate First Class Robert R. Scott, among 15 Sailors awarded the Medal of Honor for acts of valor on that day, refused to leave his flooding battle station within the depths of the USS CALIFORNIA, declaring to the world: “This is my station and I will stay and give them air as long as the guns are going.”

Forever enshrined in our history, the attack on Pearl Harbor shocked all Americans and galvanized our Nation to fight and defeat the Axis powers of Japan, Germany, and Italy. As Americans, we promise never to forget our fallen compatriots who fought so valiantly during World War II. As a testament to their memory, more than a million people visit the site of the USS ARIZONA Memorial each year to pay their respects to the Sailors entombed within its wreckage and to all who perished that day. Despite facing tremendous adversity, the Pacific Fleet, whose homeport remains at Pearl Harbor to this day, is stronger than ever before, upholding the legacy of all those who gave their lives nearly 80 years ago.

On this National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we recall the phrase “Remember Pearl Harbor,” which stirred the fighting spirit within the hearts of the more than 16 million Americans who courageously served in World War II. Over 400,000 gave their lives in the global conflict that began, for our Nation, on that fateful Sunday morning. Today, we memorialize all those lost on December 7, 1941, declare once again that our Nation will never forget these valiant heroes, and resolve as firmly as ever that their memory and spirit will survive for as long as our Nation endures.

The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated December 7 of each year as “National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.” NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2020, as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. I encourage all Americans to observe this solemn day of remembrance and to honor our military, past and present, with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I urge all Federal agencies and interested organizations, groups, and individuals to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff in honor of those American patriots who died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fifth.

Page 17

County Health Department Offers Free Flu Vaccinations

Weld County – Health officials at the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) are asking the public to fight the flu by getting their annual vaccination for influenza this year. Each winter, people sick with flu crowd hospitals and urgent care clinics. Early and timely flu shots can prevent a disease that hospitalizes 200,000 Americans every year. It is important to get a new flu vaccine each year. The flu vaccine offers protection for many months, but not forever. Also, the strains of influenza circulating in the community change over time, and the current vaccine offers protection against those strains. To keep yourself and your family out of the hospital, doctors recommend an annual flu shot for everyone age 6 months or older. The flu shot is a safe, effective way to reduce your chance of missing work or ending up in the hospital due to severe flu. Symptoms of the flu can be like early symptoms of COVID-19, meaning that this year, people with flu symptoms may require a COVID-19 test and may need to stay home from work and isolate away from their families while awaiting results. With COVID-19 and the upcoming flu season overlapping, county health officials say it’s more important than ever to get vaccinated against influenza this year. Health officials are worried about a so-called “twindemic” or “double surge” in the coming months where hospitals are overwhelmed by having to care for both flu patients and COVID-19 patients. Flu vaccination is the best protection against influenza. Another reason to get vaccinated: people can get sick with COVID and the flu at the same time, which may increase the risk they will need hospitalization. The County will be offering free flu shots to residents on the following dates: • Wednesday, December 2: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Southwest Health Department, 4209 County Road 24 ½, Longmont, CO 80504 • Thursday, December 3: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., North County Health Department, 1555 N. 17th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631 continued• Wednesday, December 9: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., North County Health Department, 1555 N. 17th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631 • Friday, December 11: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Southwest Health Department, 4209 County Road 24 ½, Longmont, CO 80504 • Monday, December 14: 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., North County Health Department, 1555 N. 17th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631 • Wednesday, December 16: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Southwest Health Department, 4209 County Road 24 ½, Longmont, CO 80504 • Monday, December 28: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., North County Health Department, 1555 N. 17th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631 Appointments are strongly encouraged and may be made by calling WCDPHE’s Public Health Services Division at (970) 304-6420.

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Lost Creek Guide

Give the Gift of Agriculture in the Classroom

During this season of giving, we humbly ask you to give the gift of Agriculture in the Classroom by donating to the Colorado Foundation for Agriculture.

The Colorado Foundation for Agriculture needs your help now more than ever before.

Our Agriculture in the Classroom® programs and resources are in increasing demand by teachers, students, parents, and non-formal educators to advance agricultural literacy in K-12 education.

The Colorado Foundation for Agriculture reaches students and teachers in many ways, thanks in large part to our many donors. The Colorado Reader is a valued resource to teach about agriculture and this year we are adding an interactive virtual version of the Reader to meet the various ever-changing learning environments our schools are facing. Educators, both formal and informal, continue to request and appreciate CFA’s printed resources. In fact, last year CFA distributed more than 11,000 copies of the four available Activity Books, a 34% increase from the previous year.

Our new virtual student programs including after school and in-school science camps and Facebook Live literacy events held in the spring were very well received. We have fun and exciting plans to grow our virtual learning experiences. Furthermore, we are looking forward to being able to hold our two planned Summer AgriCULTURE Institutes for teachers in July and are exploring options for virtual professional development during the school year. I can’t forget to mention a new book featuring Colorado farmers and ranchers, written

by Rachel Gabel and is a joint project of The Fence Post: Ag News, that will be used for the 2021 Colorado Literacy Project.

The Agriculture in the Classroom® program cultivates an understanding and appreciation of our food, fiber, fuel, and natural resources that we all rely on every day. We are very proud of the fact that our programs reach educators and youth in both urban and rural schools across Colorado!

Your sponsorship demonstrates your commitment to making today’s youth agriculturally literate. Make your gift today using our online donation page at ColoradoGives.org. Or if you prefer to send a check to make your gift, please print a copy of this donation form. And keep in mind that this year any taxpayer can donate up to $300 to a 501(c)3 charity like the Colorado Foundation for Agriculture and receive a tax deduction.

Check with your accountant about this deduction and give today!

Please let me know if you have any questions or are interested in learning about additional ways you could extend your philanthropic impact. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely, Jennifer Scharpe Colorado Foundation for Agriculture Executive Director 970-818-3308 • Jennifer@GrowingYourFuture.com

December 16, 2020

15 Ideas to Combat Winter Boredom

This year has had businesses, organizations, and even individuals pivot and do things differently than in the past. This holiday season is no different. With social distancing efforts, Zoom interactions, and a focus on personal hygiene and mask wearing, there is a tendency to let the month of December and the end of the year become a letdown.

Instead of a “bah humbug” outlook or sense of boredom take over, consider these tips by Kayla Rutledge of SignUp Genius supported with suggestions and local recommendations from Sandy Engle, Executive Director of the Fort Morgan Area Chamber of Commerce.

Plan something to look forward to, such as takeout from a favorite restaurant or fancy beverage. Local restaurant and coffee bar, Zazzy’s Café serves special hot and cold drinks, such as a Mudslide blended coffee, a vanilla Italian cream soda, or a toffee nut latte. Pair one with a monte python panini sandwich, Asian noodle salad, or frosted cookie for a special treat.

Change up your living space. A lot of time is spent inside during the winter. Try rearranging the furniture you already have and add an accessory or personal piece of artwork.

Furniture Mart has a huge selection of wall hangings, vases, light fixtures, and rugs to help in this effort.

Keep a consistent sleep schedule. By going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, an individual can help offset that tired feeling encountered due to shorter daylight hours. If you are experiencing trouble falling asleep, maybe your pillow is to blame. Visit The Better Sleep Store and check out their selection of pillows made by Beautyrest, CopperBreeze, or DreamFit. Pillow features include moisture resistance, cool comfort covers, and microbial material.

Learn something new. Pick a topic you don’t know enough about and check out some books at the Fort Morgan Public Library, listen to a podcast, or watch a documentary.

Morgan Community College offers several community enrichment classes throughout the year. Past workshops have included topics on interior decorating, e-commerce, and even star gazing. Visit its website for information on upcoming sessions, including presentations on Alzheimer’s and photography.

Go for a family drive. Make the trip as long or short as you want. Crank some tunes from local radio stations B106 or KFTM, see where the road takes you, and stop at any destinations that look interesting to stretch your legs. A few spots of interest in Morgan and neighboring counties include Pawnee Pioneer Historic and Scenic Byway on Highway 52 towards the Pawnee Buttes National Grasslands, Brush Prairie Ponds, and the Old Trail Schoolhouse near Wiggins. Morgan County hosts more than 90 barn quilts on display throughout the area. Request a brochure from the Fort Morgan Chamber to aid you in this fun day trip.

Bundle up to stargaze. According to NASA, the winter sky is one of the clearest times to track down certain constellations in the Northern Hemisphere. Jackson Lake State Park has recently earned the designation as an International Dark Sky Park. Consider camping under a future meteor shower in this outdoor recreational area.

Get up to catch the sun. As the days get shorter, make a point to get up when the sun rises. If weather permits, add a morning and afternoon walk to your daily routine to soak up rays. Bundle up in warm and stylish outerwear now available at Padink’s.

Revisit something good. Reading a classic book or watching a nostalgic video or TV show can add a bit of brightness to gloomy days. The Fort Morgan Library has numerous options including A Christmas Carol, The Call of the Wild, or Sense and Sensibility. They are open Tuesday – Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and on Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Their online catalogue makes searching for various options easy, and curbside service is also available for those who request it.

Take up something crafty. The Art Spot in Fort Morgan offers private painting classes for all ages. Contact them via the website, theartspot9.com, to schedule a personal “artscapade” where you can paint a pot, design a wineglass, or create a decorative mason jar. They also have home kits and wood cutouts available for sale.

Host a dinner party. Invite a few friends over for a meal, or if you are social distancing, consider a virtual dinner party where everyone logs in from home. Country Road Vines and Wines located just east of Fort Morgan, has a variety of wine (including sampler packs) and gift ideas. For those looking for an experience to share with family, friends, and co-workers, they offer private wine tasting. Additionally, they have partnered with Christensen Ranch for a local meat and wine box. Check out their website at countryroadwines.com for more ideas.

Now is a great time to make some of those home improvements you might have been putting off. Bloedorn Lumber can help in your efforts with paint, materials, fixtures, and even the tools to accomplish your remodeling activities. With new floor coverings and carpet, Frenier Floor Covering located at 224 Ensign Street can refresh and update your home.

Donate or volunteer at an area charity. Connections for Independent Living, Kids at Their Best, the Fort Morgan Heritage Foundation, and the Alzheimer’s Association are just a few of the community’s nonprofit organizations that could use assistance with their efforts during the holidays.

Keep warm and serve up homemade chili and s’mores. In addition to clothing, décor, and accessories, All About U on Main Street offers an array of food items and holiday themed mugs to contain popular cold weather refreshments.

Go on a virtual field trip. From the Smithsonian to zoos, plenty of organizations have created virtual options to stay warm while still adventuring. Visit Discover Rural Colorado’s website for events and places nearby that you can visit during the holidays or can plan in the future when you are ready to venture out of the home.

Turn your house into a five-star restaurant. Put the candles out, dress up, and eat a fancy family meal together. Order take-out from The Mav or Country Steak-Out and serve the food on your best dinnerware. The best part is that you don’t have to dirty any pots and pans preparing the meal and family members can choose what they would like to eat that night.

Merry Merry Christmas!

Christmas!

December 16, 2020

Page 19

Lost Creek Guide

Older Driver Safety Awareness Week Aims to Keep Seniors Safe on the Road 77 older drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2019

STATEWIDE — The Colorado Department of Transportation is joining with local programs to observe Older Driver Safety Awareness Week from Dec. 7 to Dec. 11 2020. By proclamation, Governor Polis has designated the week to promote understanding of the importance of mobility and transportation for older adults and to ensure they can remain active in their communities without transportation becoming a barrier to their mobility.

It is critical to note that older adults are advised to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines when considering travel options. Individuals who are 65 years and older are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. Older adults are twice as likely as younger people to develop serious symptoms. More information is available at https://covid19.colorado. gov/resources-for-older-adults-and-their-families.

In 2019 there were 122 drivers over 65 years old involved in fatal crashes. In that same year 77 older drivers died in car crashes. Older drivers are more likely to be killed or seriously injured in a crash due to the greater fragility of their aging bodies.

Research suggests that older adults can expect to outlive their ability to drive safely by seven to ten years.

A proactive way for older adults to enhance their safety behind the wheel is to be sure their car is properly adjusted. In 2019 CDOT sponsored 57 CarFit events around the state.

At these events volunteers check for: • A seat belt that holds the driver in the proper position and remains comfortable while driving.

• The tilt of the steering wheel and position of the airbag.

• Plenty of room (at least 10 inches) between the chest and the airbag • A properly adjusted head restraint.

• A clear line of sight above the steering wheel and dash.

• Easy access to gas and brake pedals.

• Properly adjusted mirrors.

• Ability to see around the vehicle by reducing the driver’s blind spots.

• The ability to turn the vehicle’s ignition key with ease or operate an ignition system.

• Easy operation of vehicle controls including turn signals, headlights, emergency flashers, windshield wipers, and the parking brake, among others.

Due to COVID-19, the CarFit program is hosting a series of Virtual Workshops to provide an in-depth look at several key aspects involved in getting a proper fit in your vehicle.

Learn about what to look for when it comes to fit, the everyday household objects you can use to measure and make adjustments, and how this may keep you safer on the road. Seniors can register for a virtual workshop at www.car-fit.org.

“With increasing age come changes in physical, mental and sensory abilities that can challenge a person’s continued ability to drive safely,” said Sylvia Cordy, a traffic safety advocate with the Denver-based Reaching Older Adult Drivers program. “But there are a variety of safe travel options and focusing on these solutions is key.”

Colorado’s Guide for Aging Drivers and Their Families is available for free and can serve as an excellent resource to answer most questions including license reexamination and laws, resources for Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialists, Area Agency on Aging centers, and more. The guide can be downloaded at: www.drivesmartcolorado.cominfo@ drivesmartcolorado.com.

In Western Colorado, a good resource is olderwiser.org for information on public transit discounts.

WHOLE SYSTEM. WHOLE SAFETY. In early 2019, CDOT announced its Whole System—Whole Safety initiative to heighten safety awareness. This initiative takes a systematic, statewide approach to safety combining the benefits of CDOT’s programs that address driving behaviors, our built environment and the organization’s operations. The goal is to improve the safety of Colorado’s transportation network by reducing the rate and severity of crashes and improving the safety of all transportation modes. The program has one simple mission — to get everyone home safely.

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 Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm 65 Main Street, Keenesburg, Colorado 303-910-0640

Page 20

Lost Creek Guide

Weld Service-Industry Businesses Encouraged to Apply for Financial Relief in Newest Rounds of Grants from County

WELD COUNTY, CO — Continuing a proud tradition of supporting the local business community, the Board of Commissioners has dedicated $2 million to assist Weld County businesses that have had to close or have had to significantly reduce their services since November 1, 2020 due to state COVID-19 restrictions.

“There is no question the pandemic has impacted everyone in various ways,” said Commissioner Chair Mike Freeman, “but our small, public-facing businesses have taken the brunt of negative impacts due to state policy changes, and it is the desire of this board to provide relief to those businesses which serve as the core of our communities.”

The grant program, which will utilize money from the county’s economic development fund, falls directly in line with the board’s history of supporting local business owners.

“Approximately 10 years ago, the county created an economic development fund using unclaimed property tax credits,” explained Director of Finance Don Warden.

“This fund is used to support local businesses through programs such as the county’s Small Business Incentive Program, the Colorado Enterprise Fund Loan Program, the Small Business Development Center, Upstate Colorado and more. It’s a natural fit to now use some of the money from this fund to help those businesses hurting most by pandemic restrictions.”

Upstate Colorado will administer the grant program for the county, just as it did for the two rounds of CARES fund grants earlier this fall. This new round of grants, however, is aimed at providing financial relief to businesses specifically affected by state restriction including: restaurants; bars and other food and beverage service providers; live event venues; movie theaters; gyms and fitness centers; bowling centers; arcades; and other recreation facilities.

“Service-industry businesses are hurting now,” said Freeman. “This grant program aims to provide relief quickly to help these small businesses make it through the next few months, in particular. That’s why we’ve directed Upstate to open the application process now and start awarding grants before the end of the month.”

If you are a small business located in Weld County and are interested in learning more about this opportunity, please visit https://weldrecovery.com.

December 16, 2020

Weldon Valley News

Snow in the Night The snow came tumbling from the sky, The noisy wind was bluster, It whirled the flakes in spiral sheets And etched bare trees with filigree.

The house looked like frost cakes With icing dripping from their eaves.

And little shrubs stood wistfully With heaping spoonfuls on their leaves.

And then the wind was very still.

And , waiting for the world to wake, It gazed at dawn with awe upon The fairy land it helped to make.

Isla Paschall Richardson

Final we got snow, it was fully and wet. Great snwoman/woman snow!

Most of it melted early , but in many places it still with us.

Smile a little: What a Mess- A college boy said to his mother, “I decided that I what to be a political science major and that I want to clean up the mess in the world!” “That’s very nice,” purred his mother, “You can go upstairs and start with your room.”

Community News: It was a great Thanksgiving, many family groups were able to get together to celebrate in many different ways. With all the health problems, we still have may blessing to be Thankful for.

There was a strange driver travelling around the Valley one day this week. . He did no harm, but was spooky. There also has been several vehicle stolen the past few months.

Just last week two were taken, but recovered. Remember, don’t leave you keys in the vehicle, Be safe!

The Valley is growing. There are two new house in east of Weldona. One house is on Road Y and the second house is under construction of Highway. Weldo to Weldon Valley 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.

Plans are being made for the Advent Season.

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

The fall project is collecting socks and gloves for Rising Up. You can get them to the church and they will be delivered. The Presbyterian Women also prepare an evening meal on the first Thursday, December through March.

Sunday December 20 Christmas program and social time with a cookie exchange.

School Scoop: It is back to school. The Warriors’ football season ended on Wednesday with a game against Kiowa Indians in Weldona. It was a hard fought season. Thanks to the team and coaches of a hard fought season.

4-H News: 4-H members preparing for a new year.

What’s cookin’: Creamy Mint Frosting- 1 cup powdered sugar, 2tablesopoon soft butter, 3-4 tablespoons milk, 2 cups powdered sugar, ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract. In a mixing bowl beat together 1 cup powdered sugar and butter, gradually add milk, Ad 2 cups powdered sugar to mixture until smooth and spreading consistency. Blend in peppermint, Great on yellow cake and brownies.

First facts: 1914- The newly created Federal Reserve Banks open in 12 cities.

Weldon Valley History: Orchard Times- On May 5, 1932 the Orchards Times appeared and served nine communities in the area. I cost $1.50 per year to subscribe or 5 cents a copy, and published in the beginning by R.M. Wilson.

A headline on May 25, 1933, read “Bean Acreage Largest in Twenty Years-Planting Estimate in Excess of 4,000 acres in Orchard District-Local buyers look for Largest Bean shipment Every made Here-Both Elevators Making Preparation.”

Calendar of Events: No GLAD Club in January. The Advent Season with worship and Celebrations.

Thought for the Day: “Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there are really not such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.” John Ruskin

WE'LL HELP YOU Cool It Ride It Dry It Sail It Wash It Pull It Can It Fix It Drive It Warm It Fly It Cook It Find It Grow It

CLASSIFIEDS DO THE JOB

303-732-4080

December 16, 2020

Lost Creek Guide

Page 21

The Empty Gradebook: As Students Struggle with Remote Learning, Teachers Grapple with Fs

By Kalyn Belsha, Chalkbeat When Ana Barros drew up a list of students who were about to fail her class this fall, it was longer than she expected: 22 students out of 86.

What most distressed Barros, who teaches sixth-grade social studies at a charter school in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was that her list included students who didn’t seem like they were struggling — students who had been participating in virtual class, but hadn’t turned in assignment after assignment.

“That was kind of scary,” she said. “Even the kids who seem like they’re OK, and their parents are like ‘Yeah we’re good, we’re good,’ they’re still failing.”

So she went looking for answers. “Everyone has basically said: ‘I didn’t understand it at first, and then I gave up,’” Barros said.

“They’re frustrated and they don’t know how to express that.”

In Houston, Los AngeElementary school students return to in-person school in les, Chicago, and elsewhere New York City on Dec. 7, 2020. Photo by Michael M. Sanacross the country, more stutiago/Getty Images dents are failing classes this fall. It’s a worrisome trend, as research has shown that even failing one core class can reduce a student’s chances of graduating high school.

Students whose grades are lowest, teachers say, are both the students who stopped coming to class entirely and those who have simply fallen very far behind. In either case, teachers are scrambling to figure out what to do about the many missing assignments.

Some teachers are giving out more Fs than ever. But many have overhauled their whole approach to grading to keep an even larger number from failing — and then wrestled with whether they made the right call. That means the number of students truly struggling right now is likely larger than the alarming numbers being reported nationwide.

Elaine Allensworth, who directs the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research, which has long studied what keeps students on track for graduation, called it a tough balance.

“You want them to have flexibility right now, because everyone is in these strange circumstances, and it could be really hard for students to complete the assignments teachers initially intended,” she said. But, she added, “Hopefully, with that flexibility, they’re still asking students to do things where they’re going to be learning skills, learning the content.”

This spring, when school was first interrupted by the pandemic, many school districts adopted pass/fail policies, or input grades only if they brought up a student’s average. But this fall, many districts returned to typical grading policies in an effort to project normalcy and encourage students to remain engaged.

That means, of course, that students can get failing grades. And the difficulties of remote learning mean that many more are.

In several places, the increases in failing grades have been most pronounced among students who struggled more even before the pandemic. In Chicago, for example, course failure rates grew much more for Black and Latino students than for their white and Asian classmates. In the more affluent Fairfax County, Virginia, the share of English learners in middle and high school earning two or more Fs jumped, to 35% from 17% the year before.

And while it’s true some students are just struggling with the content, many teachers said the non-academic parts of school are proving just as challenging: keeping up with assignments, staying motivated, and asking for help.

Creacy Brown, who teaches fifth-grade math in Galveston, Texas, said her students who had signed up for more self-paced, independent remote work were having trouble completing it. About half her students are failing her class, she said.

“My students that attend my Zoom classes, those students routinely do well on assignments,” she said. But her asynchronous students often aren’t watching her pre-recorded lessons, “so they’re just basically going in and completing assignments without receiving any instruction.”

In a virtual setting, teachers also don’t always have good information about why a student isn’t coming to class or normal ways to intervene.

“It is hard for students who need independent help,” said Heather Worley, a high school teacher in Chicago, where students are only allowed to meet remotely one-on-one with teachers with parent permission. “Everything I understand about how to stop a kid from failing involves being present with them. You can pull them out into the hallway. You can say: ‘Hey, come here, you’re staying with me for lunch, go get a sandwich, come back, we’re going to do this until we get it right.’”

In response, some teachers say they’ve changed how — and what — they grade. They’re giving fewer daily assignments and focusing on more important projects. They’re letting students redo work, granting extensions, or assigning incompletes, hoping students can turn those into letter grades by the end of the year.

Barros in Tulsa, for example, excused several smaller assignments, gave extra points to students who’d put in a lot of effort, and then offered a deal to her last few students to let them complete one larger project and end up with a D. Most took her up on it.

Brown, in Galveston, said students in her school who failed a subject during the first marking period were given the chance to complete a “catch-up module” and bring their grade up to a C. Some teachers are even changing their grading scales. One English teacher in California’s Coachella Valley said her school “strongly encouraged” staff to adjust the lower end: What would normally get an F now gets a D, and Ds have become Cs. Teachers who are raising grades say it’s not just about boosting averages — they’re also not sure that giving students Fs would lead to them getting more support down the line. So they’re calculating that passing students now could help keep students motivated to continue through a challenging year.

Andrea Thomas, a third-grade teacher who works on the Navajo Nation in New Mexico, says the school district had provided devices late and many of her students still lacked internet access. So the teachers she works with decided it was unfair to fail any students, and created their own grading scale: Students who were attending virtual classes or regularly

turning in paper academic packets got As, students who turned in work occasionally got Bs, and students who didn’t turn in anything got Cs. Instead of worrying about individual assignments, she said, she’s spending all of her energy on helping her students stay engaged and build their reading skills.

“Grades are grades, but they aren’t as meaningful as understanding the content that’s being taught to you,” Thomas said.

Jason Mount, who teaches 11th grade English at a high school in Manhattan, has started adding notes to assignments about how long they should take. He wants students to hand the work in after they hit that time, even if they’re not done. He came up with that idea after dozens of his students, even in his Advanced Placement course, got incomplete grades this fall.

“I want you to stay engaged and not get behind,” he said. “If I find that the kids are not completing things, I assume that it’s because they spent more time than I gave them to do it, and then I can have that conversation with individuals.”

And teachers are also redoubling their attempts to connect with students, no matter how far behind or disengaged they might be. The problem is the volume of students who are struggling.

“There were just so many of them,” Mount said. “It wasn’t like a snowball, it was more like an avalanche.”

Parents who have seen their children fail classes during the pandemic say it can take a toll. April Harris watched her daughter, a ninth-grader who attends a charter high school in Chicago and usually gets top marks, struggle for several weeks to log into her Zoom classes, finding the links often didn’t work. She fell behind and failed several classes this fall, and is hoping to catch up with extra-credit assignments.

“She’s doing everything she can,” Harris said. But “sometimes it can make you feel defeated.”

When so much about school has been upended, it’s hard to know if low grades will be as predictive of student success as they typically are, says Allensworth of the University of Chicago Consortium. Students may bounce back when instruction gets closer to normal.

If those Fs stick on students’ transcripts, though, she worries about the long-term consequences, especially for students who were on the border between success and struggle before the pandemic. “This could push them to not graduate when they might have graduated before,” she said.

That leaves school officials with decisions to make about how to support those students.

In the short term, that could mean working to offer in-person school to families who want it, prioritizing students who’ve received low grades for that in-person instruction, and improving the experience of remote instruction in the meantime. In the long term, that could mean intensive tutoring, summer school, or having students repeat a class, though efforts like those can be expensive.

Allensworth points out that traditional high school “credit recovery” is often done online — an option that likely won’t be a good fit for students who struggled with remote school.

Things like tutoring support and an eventual return to in-person learning would be welcomed by Patricia Franklin, who oversees remote schooling for her three grandchildren in Chicago.

Two are receiving some help from special education aides virtually, but they are still struggling, especially her sixth-grader, who failed math this fall. She’s tried giving him cartoon drawing breaks and even a punching bag when things get really tough.

She’s hoping school won’t feel so frustrating if her grandchildren are able to attend in person later this winter, when Chicago Public Schools plans to bring back most younger students.

For now, when her sixth-grader gets disheartened, she tries to stay positive.

“He’s still just thinking he should give up,” she said, “but I just keep trying to encourage him it’ll get better.”

We want to Wish a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year to all of our friends and customers Thank you for your support through all these years

From the Chiodas & all of us at the Keene Market

Keene Market

80 S. Main St. Keenesburg 303-732-4405

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Lost Creek Guide

Unsecured Christmas Trees Do Serious Damage

December 16, 2020

Millions of Americans fail to properly secure Christmas trees in transport.

DENVER (Dec. 1, 2020) - An estimated 20 million Americans who purchased a real Christmas tree between 2015 and 2018 did not properly secure it to their vehicle, per survey data from AAA. That’s no joke: Vehicle damage resulting from an improperly secured Christmas tree – such as scratched paint, torn door seals, and distorted window frames – can cost up to $1,500 to repair.

“We’ve all seen a car leave a tree lot with a Christmas tree dangling off the roof and twine looped through the car’s door jambs or open windows,” said Skyler McKinley, director of public affairs for AAA Colorado. “As convenient as it might seem in the moment, failing to secure your Christmas tree can do serious damage – both to your vehicle, and to others on the road.”

Road Debris Previous research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that, in a fouryear period, road debris was a factor in a total of more than 200,000 crashes nationwide, resulting in approximately 39,000 injuries and 500 deaths. About two-thirds of debrisrelated crashes are the result of items, including Christmas trees, falling from a vehicle due to improper maintenance and unsecured loads.

In Colorado, releasing road debris that does not injure another person can lead to a fine ranging between $35 and $500. Releasing road debris that does injure another person is a class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense, with a potential penalty of 90 days in jail.

Vehicle Damage Vehicle damage resulting from improperly secured Christmas trees can cost drivers as much as $1,500 in repairs. Twine, ropes, or straps can wear away paint and tear rubber seals when routed through door or window openings. Closing a door over tree tie-downs may also permanently distort the window’s frame. Tree branches often scratch the paint off the vehicle’s roof. Typical vehicle repairs and their associated costs could include: • Repair surface scratches: $100 to $150 • Replace the rubber seals on two doors: $220 to $550. Seal costs vary widely with the vehicle make and model.

• Repaint a severely scratched roof: $500 to $1,500. Paint color, finish type, prep work, paint blending with adjacent panels, and other factors affect this cost.

How to Safely Shop for Your Christmas Tree • Don’t visit a tree lot if you or anyone in your immediate circle has tested positive for COVID-19 or are experiencing COVID-like symptoms.

• Call the lot ahead of time and ask about their policies for visiting. It’s likely they’ll have reduced operating hours, or are limiting the number of people who can visit the lot at one time. Ask when they’re slow and visit then, when crowds should be smaller.

• Although most lots are located outside, wear a face cover and practice social distancing. Bring hand sanitizer and keep it nearby while shopping.

Transporting Your Tree Before you head out to purchase a real Christmas tree, make sure you have: • Rope or hatchet straps.

• An old blanket • Gloves • The right vehicle: A vehicle with a roof rack is best, but a pickup truck, SUV, van, or minivan can also do the trick.

Once you’ve found the perfect tree, secure and transport it safely without causing damage to the tree or your car: • Wrap & Cover It: Have the lot wrap your tree in netting before loading it. Loose branches can also be secured with rope or twine to help protect the tree from damage.

Prior to loading the tree, cover the roof with an old blanket to prevent scratches to the paint and protect the car from any damage.

• Trunk First: Place the tree on the roof rack or in the bed of the truck with the tree trunk facing the front of the car. If the vehicle does not have a roof rack and is large enough to accommodate, place the tree inside.

• Secure It: Tie down the tree at its bottom, center, and top using strong rope or nylon ratchet straps. Avoid using the lightweight twine offered by many tree lots. Use fixed vehicle tie-down points and loop the rope or strap around the tree trunk above a branch to prevent any side-to-side or front-to-rear movement.

• Tug Test: Before you leave the lot, give the tree several strong tugs from various directions to make sure it is secured in place and will not blow away.

• Take it Easy: Drive slowly, and take the back roads, if you can. Higher speeds create significant airflow that can damage your Christmas tree and challenge even the strongest tie-down methods.

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

December 16, 2020

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Lost Creek Guide

SERVICE DIRECTORY Computer Support Repair, Service & Sales Reliable, Local, Professional

Roggen Telephone Company

303-849-5260

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

Keene Clinic

190 So. Main St., Keenesburg

303-732-4268

Thomas J Croghan DDS Family Dental Practice

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

New Patients Welcome

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

303-732-4319 Prairie Ranch House Restaurant, Wiggins Colorado Now taking orders for Holiday Baking Pies, Cakes, Cookies, Snack & Party Trays 48 Hour notice appreciated Mary Ellen: 970-324-3022 or 970-453-7872

DOHERTY’S PLUMBING AND DRAIN Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Water Heater Replacement Video sewer inspection Sewer & drain locating

COMPLETE HVAC SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE

303-859-9126

FOR SALE For Sale 2000 Polaris Magnum 325 ATV Serviced & Ready for work or play Royal blue $2,250 (OBO) 303-732-4249

Local Colorado Information On Line

Go to: www.ourtowncolorado.com

Go to: your town/city Go to: news/events tab Free - No Pay Wall

First Baptist Church, Keenesburg, Food Pantry

Open every third Saturday 9 am to 12 pm 100 North Market Street, Keenesburg For emergency needs, please contact 720-480-6428 or email us at: http:// www.fbca.church

Donations are welcome to help us defeat hunger in our community

Self Storage

1401 County Road 153 Strasburg, CO 80136

Phone: (303) 622-4142

Managers: Garold & Geraldine Middlemist

NOTICES

SERVICES

BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2021 OF THE WIGGINS RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT (Pursuant to 29-1-106, C.R.S.) NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget for the year 2021 has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Wiggins Rural Fire Protection District. That a copy of such proposed budget has been posted at the office of the District, where the same is open for public inspection. That such proposed budget will be considered at a meeting of the Board of Directors to be held at 701 Central Avenue, Wiggins, Colorado, at the hour of 7:00 p.m. on the 10th day of December, A.D. 2020.

Any taxpayer within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget, file or register their objections thereto. /S/ Lynnette Jo Roger, Treasurer Published: Lost Creek Guide

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

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

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

Longarm Quilter Edge to Edge Computer Automated Quilting Online Store aquiltersfriend.com Cheri Dobratz 303-532-9035

WE'LL HELP YOU

Cool It Ride It Dry It Sail It Wash It Pull It Can It Fix It Drive It Warm It Fly It Cook It Find It Grow It CLASSIFIEDS DO THE JOB

303-732-4080

Call or Text: 970-467-1512 Email: carissa@arrowheadtrash.com Or visit our website at www.arrowheadtrash.com

Page 24

Lost Creek Guide

Send owers to your loved ones who may nn be able to be with you this Holiday Season!

1201 East Platte Ave. * Ft. Morgan, CO 80701

December 16, 2020