The Lost Creek Guide October 18, 2023

Volume 16 • Edition 20

October 18, 2023

Delivering to over 17,500 homes & businesses including all of Morgan County.

“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

How Proposition HH Picks Colorado Taxpayers’ Pockets

by Mark Hillman, Complete Colorado Page 2 We didn’t need an election this November to receive a modest property tax reduction. The legislature can cut taxes anytime; it doesn’t need voter approval.

But with Coloradans facing the largest property tax increase of our lifetime due to soaring home prices, the legislature chose to put a massive expansion of government on the ballot disguised as a property tax cut.

Remember this: even if Proposition HH passes, property taxes will still increase. If property values double in the next 10 years, so will property taxes.

The deceptive ballot question asks: “Shall the state reduce property taxes for homes and businesses…” That sounds good, so voters may not read much further. Even if they do, the ballot never explains voting “yes” is agreeing to give up refunds under the Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR) and to permanently increase the cost of state government.

Voters are facing an average increase in home property taxes of 36% come next January. In some communities, the increase could be nearly 50%. If Prop HH passes, the average increase will be 26% – still the largest property tax increase of our lifetime.

The statewide average tax increase is estimated at $848 if HH fails and $617 if HH passes. The only thing that truly decreases if HH passes are the annual refunds that voters receive each year. This hidden part of HH will cost the average Colorado household $5,119 over the next 10 years.

Even the legislature’s official ballot explainer says, “The measure results in a smaller increase in property taxes than under current law.”

The devious part of HH is that lawmakers are paying for this small tax cut by taking it way from TABOR refunds they owe to all taxpayers. They’re simply taking money out of your left pocket to put it into your right pocket – and pretending they’re doing you a favor.

But all of that is small potatoes compared to the big picture bait-and-switch.

Tucked away in Prop HH is a provision that increases how much state government spending can grow each year. Currently, the state Constitution allows annual spending to increase by the combined rate of population growth plus inflation. For 2023 that’s 8.5% or about $1.5 billion in new spending.

Prop HH will add an extra 1% every year for 10 years. By 2032, that extra 10% adds up to $2.2 billion a year – all taken away from taxpayer refunds.

But that’s not the end of the HH scam.

After 10 years, the legislature can continue to add 1% more per year to state spending without voter approval. The only requirement is that lawmakers extend the HH property tax rates. But if property values continue to soar, your property taxes will soar right along with them.

Keep in mind the legislature has already increased regulation, taxes and fees by $1.8 billion – mostly without voter approval.

That’s still not the end of the HH scam.

Renters really get shafted by HH because they disproportionately lose their TABOR refunds but won’t benefit from the small reduction in property taxes. Under HH, rental properties are taxed at higher rates than owner-occupied properties, so rent costs will inevitably increase to pay those taxes.

Worse still, the legislature tries to bribe renters with a one-year change giving all taxpayers equal refunds for 2023 only. Taxpayers with income under $99,000 will receive an “extra” $37 to $233 for one year only. By the end of 10 years, higher state spending will eat up everyone’s refunds.

Common Sense Institute predicts that renters “are the biggest losers” from Prop HH because they will see none of the benefit from property tax reductions but will lose an estimated $5,119 in tax refunds over the next 10 years.

Why would anyone vote for Prop HH? Proponents argue it will greatly improve public school funding. So why didn’t they simply put that question on the ballot?

Obviously because they feared voters would say “no” unless tricked into thinking they were voting for a property tax cut.

If Prop HH fails, Gov. Polis and lawmakers still have time to call a special session to pass a straight-forward property tax cut. They passed the bill that created Prop HH in just three days. They can do the same with real property tax relief. And they should.

Mark Hillman previously served as Colorado State Treasurer and Senate Majority Leader.

Please Vote

It is important and it does count!

Richard Holtorf on Ken Buck

I am no stranger to politics, having lived in Colorado and

been a constituent of CD 4 most all of my life. Growing up in a staunch Republican family, ranching, cattle-feeding, and farming on the Northeastern plains of Colorado. Inspired by a mother, Valera Lea, who has actively campaigned and supported a long parade of Congressmen, like Jim Johnson, Hank Brown and Bill Armstrong her whole life. As such, I am no stranger to what is expected of a Colorado Republican representative in Washington, DC serving Congressional District 4.

A 3rd Generation cattle rancher like me looks across the CD4 landscape today and he sees a stray. Stays are easy to spot in the open range as cows wander off far from the herd, leaving themselves alone and vulnerable. But how does one stray in politics?

How does one who profits off a book that drones on about draining the swamp get lost in the swamp? Congressman Buck may soon be the case study in these rhetorical questions.

Republicans in almost every county in CD4 are livid about the recent reports about Buck that are coming out of New York and Washington media outlets, at a time when Colorado desperately needs Republican leadership. Colorado needs a unified voice and message from our Republican delegation now more than ever. When the good citizen’s of this Congressional district look for this leadership, they see a Colorado Congressman on CNN or MSNBC sounding more like Liz Cheney rather than Bill Armstrong.

One would expect to see a stalwart congressional defender of Republicanism on the national stage, one standing with a Republican President or the current Republican Speaker of the US House. A CD4 constituent should expect to see a man with his Conservative armor on ready to fight the liberal, progressive, left that is driving our country over a dangerous cliff to destruction. Instead, our CD4 patriots, see placating and pandering to those Democrat leaders and appointees, who wish to send this country into ruination, with additional reports of a man already looking for his next job in the swamp. What is going on in our nation’s capital?

I am afraid that self-serving, egotistical interests may have caused a stray to appear out on the open range in Washington. It is time to get a congressman who will ride for the brand and get on with the business of rebuilding Colorado Republicanism -something that the Republican base and our unaffiliated voters alike can be proud of in a time where most folks are disgusted with what is coming out of Washington, DC. Many constituents from across my house district, House District 63, in the heart of CD4, are reaching out to me and saying it is time for a change. These folks are asking to me to saddle up and ride for the Republican brand. In response to all of these facts and circumstances, I am standing up an exploratory committee to look into this pathway for my future in public service. This is a big decision and responsibility that I do not take lightly. I do stand ready to put on the conservative armor, fight for our nation’s future and our children’s future, to never saddle up with the political foe, and to never give up on our Republican principles and values.

God Bless America, and God save Colorado from the progressive California left and most importantly, help us all with confronting and defeating the Deep State cesspool that causes those who stay in Washington too long to stray from the Republican herd or sell out and become a comfortable part of the DC swamp.

Representative Richard Holtorf Colorado State House Republican Whip, HD 63

WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE

Page 2: Way of the World Page 2 & 3: Letters to the Editor Page 5: Wiggins School District Newsletter Page 7: Morgan County Republicans Candidate & Ballot Initiative Pot Luck Meeting Page 8: Governor Polis Forms Panel To Review Criminal & Juvenile Justice System Page: 9: Republican Women of Weld Host Steve Wells of Deep Colorado Wells Page 10,12 & 13: Sports Recaps Page 12: CDOT Calls for Heightened Awareness of Pedestrian Traffic as Days Get Shorter Page 16: Taelor Solar Project Open House at Wiggins Secondary School

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Way of the World

by Bob Grand How is bullying defined? Adl.org says: “Bullying is defined as follows: the repeated actions or threats of action toward a person by one or more people who have or perceived to have more power or status than their target in order to cause fear, distress, or harm.

Bullying can be physical, verbal, psychological or any combination of these three.” A definition to use for younger, elementary age children: “When a person or a group behaves in a way, on purpose and over and over, that makes someone feel hurt, afraid or embarrassed.” Bullying must include repeated actions or threats, power imbalance and intention to cause harm.

When most of us think of bullying we immediately think of a grade school situation where a brute picks on the little kid for his or her amusement. There, however, is a more insidious form that is occurring in our government at the state, and federal level and is beginning to creep into our local and county governments as well. Not everywhere for sure but enough to be worrisome. It is not the young children this time, it is us the tax-paying public who are the recipients. The bullies are the administrative bureaucracy that acts independent of us, the taxpayer for whom they are supposed to work. Our elected officials are supposed to be stewards of the people’s monies. That means they are supposed to monitor the actions of the administrative bureaucrats to ensure that our government is focusing on providing the services needed by the general public in the most efficient way possible, all of the services to all of the people, not just the selected, politically correct anointed few. We have heard from many of our elected local and state officials on how the democratic elected majority in Denver had the opportunity to correct next year’s tax hike due to the assessed valuation spike but chose not to.

Colorado State Senator Byron Pelton of Senate District 1 had the audacity to remind people that local taxing authorities have the ability to reduce their mill levies to reduce the impact of the estimated 30% increase in appraised valuations. In Weld County, how many of the taxing authorities are looking at doing exactly that? Senior citizens who are looking at a 3.2% increase in their social security cola for 2024 with Colorado staring at a 10.3% increase in inflation? Even our Weld County Commissioners who are so proud of taxing below the approved mill levy rate are going in front of the Weld County Council to request authorization to retain monies collected over their legally permitted amount next year to use for purposes of their choosing. It is time for citizens to explore developing ballot initiatives to remind all of our elected officials who they work for and what their role is. We have been conditioned to accept such flagrant disregard for the general public at the state and federal level as there is little to be done to correct that.

Not something I am willing to totally accept. It starts at the local level. Your vote is powerful, use it!

Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia is again mentioned as a possible third-party presidential candidate, joining the ranks of Robert Kennedy Jr. As this Speaker of the House selection process unfolds, it an embarrassment.

Israel has the right to defend itself, but the Palestinian people have some rights too.

I am not talking about Hamas or Hezbollah which are terrorist groups, no question.

But it has been seventy-five years, and the question of the Palestinian issue has not been resolved. The Iranian government receives benefit from an unsettled middle east.

Some say they have been looking for away to disrupt the Israel Saudi Arabia discussions towards resolution of local issues. What better way than to provoke Israel with a real threat, full well knowing that Israel would respond, placing the Arab world in a position of having to support the Palestinian people against the retribution of Israel against the Hamas and Hezbollah vicious terrorists. The Palestinian people lose across the board as does the rest of the world.

No updates on the SE Weld Library issue in Lochbuie and Keenesburg. Why does common sense seem to have fallen off the edge of the Earth?

Your thoughts and comments are always appreciated: publisher@lostcreekguide. com

The Lost Creek Guide, Llc Bob Grand - Publisher 303-732-4080 publisher@lostcreekguide.com

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October 18, 2023

Letter to the Editor Hello All –

My name is Loren Boyett, and I am running for City Council in Ward 3 of Fort Morgan, Colorado. I am running for City Council because I believe we can be effective in running our local government regardless of the partisan issues that have pitted us against each other nationally. I believe that if we listen to each other with the intent to hear and learn, we can always find common ground and reasonable solutions to the local challenges that we face together.

I moved to Fort Morgan in 1991 to marry a woman with deep family roots and history in Northeast Colorado. Her grandparents homesteaded in Grover and both her parents lived most of their lives in Fort Morgan. Sue and I bought our first home in Fort Morgan in the early 90’s for $20,000 – talk about inflation.

I am an honorably discharged Navy Veteran, serving 4 years active duty and 2 years inactive reserve. I went to Morgan Community College while working here to build enough college credit to transfer to UNC. I completed my Bachelor’s degree at UNC in 1998.

Sue and I purchased a small business in Longmont in 1999 and operated this business until 2003. We bought our second business, Happy Life Gardens, in Evans, Colorado in 2000 and happily built this business to 21 seasonal employees over the next 13 years. After a short 2 years of owning another business in California, we were unexpectedly called home to Fort Morgan in 2015, and we’ve been happily living here ever since. All of that is to say, I know the challenges of owning a small business, and I am keenly aware of the importance of small businesses to the community and to the local economy.

Fort Morgan has been good to us, and in return, I endeavor to give back to the community in kind. I have worked as the Executive Director of the Fort Morgan Community Hospital Association for the past 4+ years, and before that I worked as a housing organizer with local businesses and non-profit organizations to spur local development of workforce housing. With over 60% of our workforce commuting into Fort Morgan to work, we lose money every day when folks take their paychecks out of town because they cannot afford to buy a home or pay rent to live here. I continue to volunteer on a local housing action committee, and we are seeing real results that will soon positively impact many in Fort Morgan.

I have volunteered as the desk coordinator for the Meals on Wheels Program, and I have served on the City’s Senior Center Advisory Council for over 2 years. I have served on the Fort Morgan Heritage Foundation Board for nearly two years because I recognize the importance of history and having a quality museum and library for all to access and enjoy. I am the current president of the Rotary Club of Fort Morgan, and I follow the Rotary’s creed of service above self.

I thank you for your consideration and your vote this November, Loren

Letter to the Morgan School District Voters:

My name is Mindy Smith, I have been a resident of Fort Morgan for most of my life. I am running for a seat on the Fort Morgan Board of Education. I am married to Eric Smith and God has blessed us with three children currently enrolled in the Fort Morgan School District , two in the high school and our youngest in elementary. I have been a hairstylist for 20 years. I have been an active member of our community in years past serving on a patient advisory and grievance committee at the hospital.

My husband and I were active with the Morgan county foster care system serving as foster parents for 5 years. I am currently a member of the Fort Morgan Athletic Booster Club and the FFA Booster Club. My family and I are active members of Platte Valley Baptist Church serving in our youth ministries . My why for running is similar to all those running for this position, our children’s education! It’s so very important that we are giving our students the proper tools not only academically to succeed beyond high school but also the tools to be a successful part of society. The district has many issues as most districts do across the state. I believe the board is aware of many of them and are currently working diligently to come up with solutions and plans of action. We live in a very diverse community and that makes us unique in itself. Over 20 different languages are spoken throughout our district. I do think communication efforts between the district and our community needs to be improved. Resources need to be given to all kiddos and families in our district to set them up for success. Our district has so much to offer and I don’t think that is communicated well enough. So many wonderful programs have been implemented, positive changes in curriculum, teacher retention, buildings working together supporting each other feeling more like a community of schools. Such an important working part of a successful district which trickles down to successful students! I believe it’s important for the board to be receptive and responsive to issues from our community members, teachers and students. If I am elected I will do my best to be sure those voices are heard. I will be sure our policies and curriculum are appropriate for our district, our demographic and beliefs. I have a lot to learn if I am elected but am willing to go in with an open mind, not afraid to voice my opinion but willing to work with the other board members to figure out the best solution or plan of action for our district and education of our kiddos. The current board is doing a great job at working together on goals for our district and I am very excited to see how their goals help to rebuild our district and be apart of this process if I am elected.

October 18, 2023

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Letter to the Citizens of Ward 1 in Fort Morgan:

In Brian Urdiales, you have more than a City Councilman; you have a friend and a listener. Brian believes that the best solutions come from the people who live, work, and care deeply about Fort Morgan.

His approachability isn’t just a campaign promise; it’s his way of life. Brian welcomes your thoughts, concerns, and dreams for our community. He’s not just hearing; he’s actively listening, understanding the heartbeat of Ward 1.

When you speak, Brian takes your words to the City Council and City Manager Brent Nation, ensuring that your voice shapes our city’s decisions. Together, let’s make Fort Morgan a place where every perspective is valued, every idea heard, and every voice makes a difference. #presrvingourroots#BuildinOurFuture#BrianUrdial esForWEard1 Chaundra Jacobs, Fort Morgan

Letter to the Citizens of City of Fort Morgan Ward 3: My name is Joel Cismowski. I’m a Christian. I’m a (common sense) conservative.

I’ve been married to my wife, Maria, for 45 years. I’m a father, grandfather and great grandfather. We’ve lived in Fort Morgan since January 2013. I retired from the, CA Department of Corrections, in 2010. Prior to that, I was a parts counterman at various dealerships and also served as a Reserve Police Officer with the City of Lodi, CA, for two years.

I recognize that the city council bears a great responsibility to the citizens of Fort Morgan and are ultimately responsible for spending the hard earned tax dollars that are collected from our citizens. If elected, I pledge to do my part to be fiscally responsible with those tax dollars.

I believe that we need to have a police department that proactively fights crime, no matter what the level of crime it is. I also believe that we should always support them, as a community.

I’m aware that our street department is overwhelmed most, if not, all of the time.

My plan is to work together with the other council members and the city manager, to keep our streets in good order and doing so, in a timely manner.

I look forward to serving as a Ward 3 council member. I appreciate the opportunity to run and I’m asking for your vote.

Thank you!

Joel Cismowski (Ward 3, Fort Morgan city council candidate)

Letter to the Citizens of the Fort Morgan School District:

I am a graduate and longtime resident of Fort Morgan.

My husband Sam and I have two children – Jessica Hopper Maxim currently serving as a Major in the U.S. Army and Sam N. Hopper working as an Assistant IT Director in Fort Morgan. We have 7 grandchildren whom we are very proud of. I obtained my teaching degree from UNC as well as my master’s in Gifted education.

Later, I obtained administrative licensure from the University of Denver.

I have always had a vested interest in the success of our schools. I am a former educator and administrator in RE-3 School district for 30 years serving a teacher, instructional coach, elementary principal, and an English Language Development Director. I have a passion for education and a love for children. In as much, I feel I can give valuable input to the board.

Currently I serve as secretary on the Fort Morgan Board of Education. In 2021, I was elected to serve on the Colorado Association of School Boards as a Regional 1 Director representing all northeast Colorado School Boards. I have at times testified at the capitol on behalf of rural initiatives and students.

Each spring we graduate a senior population of students and provide hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships. These achievements continue each year, despite the issues that are typically seen as challenges to some districts and communities.

In Morgan RE-3, our population of children currently speak over 20 languages. In addition, we have a high rate of poverty in our community. I believe these challenges enrich our community and the future of our students as they move in an ever-chaining world. Again, these accomplishments only happen through having a dedicated staff and a great group of students. I also realize that test scores were released recently and that sends a double message. – students excelling yet poor accountability scores. The state accountability system as we know it is broken and it is biased. I look forward to continuing to serve at the state level to make recommendations and changes to this system.

Our district is comprised of over 600 staff and 3,300 students. I want to ensure that we are providing students with the tools for success, as well as a multitude of pathways of opportunities for students. Investing in our youth, pour education professionals, and community is essential. It is my top priority to ensure that each student is served in the best capacity based on their individual needs; understanding that providing support to our school employees is the foundation for student success.

I want to support the progress and success our district has achieved. I am excited about the direction the district is headed, with a strong focus on school attendance, family/community engagement, and preparing students for their futures. The world awaits them.

Like you, it is important to me that we keep the education, safety, and well-being of each student at the forefront of our decisions.

Thank you for your consideration!

Nancy Hopper

Please Vote

It is Important and it does count!

Second Annual Brush Fall Festival Coming Soon

The second annual Fall Festival will be held at the Brush Church of the Nazarene on Saturday, November 4. There will be something for the entire family, so please join us between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. at the Brush Church of the Nazarene located at 26150 Hwy. 34 just west of Brush.

There will be crafts, bake sales, train rides, face painting, unusual balloons, games, and more. It is a good time to buy Christmas, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and baby gifts. By popular demand, Merle’s Famous Chili will be served from 11:30 to 1:30 along with cinnamon rolls. There will be other types of soups available as well.

Among the vendor booths will be Rideau Organic Skincare manufactured in Sterling, raw honey processed in Brush, knitted caps, stockings, and other items made from home-spun yarn with wool taken from sheep raised in Morgan County, items designed from African print fabric made locally, home-made goats’ soap and other bath products, crochet plush animals, purses, key chains bracelets, necklaces, towels, potholders, and more. Also featured will be the popular educational toys, games, and books from Discovery Toys, “Thirty-one” products featuring affordable purses, totes, and bags, hair pieces from Lilla Rose, and Mary Kay products. Packaged meal preps and spices will be on display and for sale. Email bbrbusinesscoaching@ gmail.com for more vendor information.

Proceeds from the vendor fees, bake sale, lunch, and some of the other children’s activities will be used to cover expenses in sending people to conferences, camps, and other Church activities such as the children’s Awesome Tuesdays, Thursdays Teens Night, and the popular community Talent Camp in the summer.

More information contact: Merle Rhoades 970-380-2076

Candidate Forum for City Council & School Board Held at Fort Morgan City Hall

John Brennan, Fort Morgan Deputy City Manager, announced that a Town hallstyle candidate forum hosted by local media, i.e., B-106, Media Logic Radio and the Fort Morgan Times at the Council Chambers of the City of Fort Morgan. There were twelve participants, six each for the school board and city council and mayor positions that are open this election cycle. The forum was streamed on YouTube and zoom as are all city council meetings are.

Moderators accepted questions from the audience and an effort was made to get as many answers as possible within the allocated time. The forum lasted approximately 2 hours with about equal time between the school board and city council positions.

Candidates for the school board positions were Nancy Hopper, Heath Kuntz, Mindy Smith, Sarah Whitney, John T. Prouty, and Robert Caruth. Candidates for the City Council and Mayor positions were Brian Uradlies – Ward 1; Kevin “Doc” Lindell for Mayor, Loren Boyett – Ward 3, Joel Cismowski – Ward 3, Jeff Murford – Ward 1, and William “Bill: Garcia Ward 2. There were about forty interested citizens who attended.

Each candidate got a 30 second introductory statement and a one-minute closing statement. The moderators did a good job in keeping the event moving along, keeping to the time constraints. Questions for the school board candidates included: The Role of the School Board, Views on Discipline, Skills to be successful, School boards responsibility to parents, What measures of success do you hold out, and Values of this community.

The city council candidates and the mayor candidate were asked: What is the role of a city council or mayor? Thoughts on Roads & Pot holes, Are we getting a major restaurant?, What about the city budget?, Voice for all the people, How do you handle disagreements?, Chief of Police & City Manager report to the City Council – thoughts, Understanding role of government.

All candidates, in both groups, were very responsive to each of the questions.

Answers appeared honest and candid, coming from regular folks, not the usual politician speak we have become used to at the state and national level. Good down to earth comments. Overall, an impressive group. It will be up to the voters to decide.

As a voter it is up to you to exercise your right to vote. It is important and each vote does count. Candidates can decide to run but you as a voter have the responsibility to participate in the governing process. Do your part, vote. It is important and each vote does count! Show your support. Please vote!

Auto, Home, Farm & Commercial

Agents Mark Kinnear Devon Kitchell 303-732-9700 20 S. Main Keenesburg, CO

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Lost Creek Guide

Colorado GOP Leadership Fails To Block Unaffiliated Voters From The Party’s 2024 Primaries

The outcome was despite complicated parliamentary maneuvering by the Colorado Republican Party’s aimed at making it easier to meet the high opt-out threshold

by Jesse Paul, The Colorado Sun

The Colorado GOP’s central committee meets at The Church in Castle Rock on Sept. 30, 2023.

(Jesse Paul, The Colorado Sun)

CASTLE ROCK — The Colorado GOP’s central committee on Saturday decided against opting out of the state’s 2024 primaries to block unaffiliated voters from helping select Republicans’ general election candidates.

The outcome was despite a second attempt in as many months by the Colorado Republican Party’s leadership to adopt complicated parliamentary changes aimed at making it easier to meet the high threshold of support needed to opt out.

Even with the parliamentary maneuvering, the vote — taken by individual roll call that lasted about an hour — was 259-143.5. That’s well below the 75% support needed for the opt-out motion, endorsed by Colorado GOP Chair Dave Williams, to be successful. (Some members of the central committee get partial votes.)

The party had until Sunday to make an opt-out decision, so the failed vote Saturday means Republicans won’t have another chance to try to opt out of the 2024 primaries.

Under Proposition 108, the 2016 ballot measure allowing unaffiliated voters to cast ballots in partisan primaries, the Colorado Democratic and Republican parties can opt out of the state’s primaries if 75% of their respective central committees agree to do so by Oct. 1 in odd years.

Turnout for the central committee meeting on Saturday was unusually high, at 96% of the committee’s total members. That was likely a reflection of the meeting rules Williams and other Colorado GOP leaders drafted for the event.

Under Proposition 108, the 2016 ballot measure letting unaffiliated voters cast ballots in partisan primaries, the Colorado Democratic and Republican parties can opt out of the state’s primaries if 75% of the “total membership” of their respective central committees agree to do so by Oct. 1 in the year preceding an election.

But many of the central committee’s members don’t show up to the committee’s meetings — in part because they happen on Saturdays, take an entire day and may be an hourslong drive away — making the 75% threshold difficult to meet.

Rules for the GOP central committee gathering on Saturday attempted to make reaching the threshold easier by redefining “total membership” as members of the central committee who showed up at the gathering. Further, the rules made it so any nonvote by a person who showed up or who abstained from a vote by proxy would be tallied as a vote with the majority.

While 335.99 central committee votes were cast during the central committee’s last meeting in August, there were 402.5 votes cast on Saturday. Just 15 members of the central committee didn’t show up to the meeting Saturday or didn’t have a proxy.

Opting out of the state’s primaries has been an objective of the far right.

“The reason we continue to lose at the ballot box is because we allow watered-down candidates to infiltrate our ballots,” said Laurel Imer, who ran unsuccessfully for Congress last year. “It is time to stand on integrity, principle and the platform of the Republican Party and elect candidates who will do the same. We cannot do that with Democrats and independents infiltrating the body of our autonomy.”

But opponents of opting out, many of them more moderate Republicans, have warned that it could spell further disaster for the already-diminished Colorado GOP, which has no statewide elected officials and is in a historic minority at the state Capitol.

“We’re in a marketing war for voters,” Danny Moore, the GOP’s lieutenant governor candidate in 2024, told the central committee on Saturday. “This is the time we need to bring more Republicans to the party, not push people away.”

Danny Moore, Republican gubernatorial candidate Heidi Ganahl’s running mate, at a news conference on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022, where Ganahl unveiled her transportation plan. (Jesse Paul, The Colorado Sun)

Opting out of Colorado’s primaries wouldn’t have just blocked unaffiliated voters

October 18, 2023

from helping choose Republican general election candidates. It would have also prevented GOP candidates from gathering signatures to get on the ballot, leaving the caucus and assembly process, traditionally dominated by a limited number of hard-line party insiders, as the only way to run for every office but president. (The presidential race isn’t subject to the opt-out clause in Proposition 108.)

Colorado’s three Republican U.S. representatives voted by proxy on Saturday, with only Lauren Boebert, of Garfield County, voting for the opt-out motion. U.S. Reps.

Ken Buck, of Windsor, and Doug Lamborn, of Colorado Springs, voted against opting out.

The opt-out vote Saturday isn’t the end of the story.

Separate from the opt-out effort, the Colorado GOP filed a federal lawsuit in August seeking to block enforcement of Proposition 108. If the lawsuit is successful, there would still be a GOP primary, but it would be open to only Republican voters.

The Republican Party is represented in the lawsuit by John Eastman, the attorney who helped Donald Trump try to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Eastman was indicted alongside Trump in Georgia in August.

Randy Corporon, a conservative talk radio host and a member of the Republican National Committee, is also representing the GOP in the case. The defendant is Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, the state’s top elections official. She is a Democrat.

It’s unclear how long the lawsuit may take to play out, though the Colorado GOP could try to expedite a ruling in the case before the state’s primaries next year.

Williams said that the vote on Saturday “proves the point of the lawsuit.”

“The state has imposed upon the Republican Party an unconstitutional threshold and the numbers certainly bear that out,” Williams said of the 75% support needed to opt out.

A similar lawsuit filed in federal court by a group of Republicans ahead of the 2022 election failed. (The GOP central committee rejected an effort to opt-out two years ago, too.)

More than 434,000 Republicans and 231,000 unaffiliated voters cast ballots in the 2022 GOP primary. In some counties, more unaffiliated voters than registered Republicans cast Republican primary ballots.

The unaffiliated participation in 2022 was up considerably from 2020 and 2018, the first year unaffiliated voters were allowed to cast ballots in Colorado’s partisan primaries.

Both Democrats and Republicans have been steadily losing members as voters switch to unaffiliated. At the end of August, 47% of voters were registered unaffiliated, 27% were Democrats and 24% were Republicans.

The Colorado Sun is a reader-supported news organization that covers Colorado people, places and issues. To sign up for free newsletters, subscribe or learn more, visit ColoradoSun.com

Transfer degrees from MCC to a Colorado university means a higher chance of success and less debt.

Register today at morgancc.edu

October 18, 2023

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Lost Creek Guide

WIGGINS SCHOOL DISTRICT 50J OCTOBER NEWS

GOOD PEOPLE OF TIGER NATION: October 2023 For the first time since 2008 CTE classes in the form of Consumer and Family Studies are being offered. The students first catering job was to treat secondary teachers with tacos, soups, and different desserts. The class made the meals for teachers to enjoy while doing parent teacher conferences during the week of October 2. Teachers raved over the amount of toppings for the tacos, made sure they got the cheeseburger soup recipe, and devoured all of the sweet desserts.

Homecoming week was a hit. Students participated in dress up days, class competitions, and sporting events. The volleyball team and football team were both victorious in their games over Yuma. Every year during Homecoming week, local businesses and churches provided a pulled pork dinner to the community. Business owners, workers, and worship leaders served over 650 patrons through the course of the evening. The community dinner is a great way to kick off Homecoming week!

Over 20 teams competed at the Wiggins Invitation Cross Country Meet. The high school boys, middle school boys, and middle school girls all received 2nd place.

The Wiggins Board of Education has three openings for the upcoming election.

Three individuals completed the requirements that allowed them to run for an open seat therefore the board election has been canceled. Eric Gonzalez will serve his second four year term with Dustin Bruntz and Derrick Kyte serving on the board for their first terms.

Wiggins Preschool/Child Care is now enrolling children upon their third birthday.

Prior to this year, children had to be 3 years of age by June 15th. While the enrollment date for kindergarten remains the same, (child must be 5 years of age by June 15th), preschool children will be able to attend earlier if the family desires and space allows.

Please contact Miss Lisa at 970-483-7783 if you would like more information.

Monthly Expenditures for September

General Fund Capital Reserve Bond Redemption​

$876,984.68

$156,073.43

$0.00

Bond Project Elementary Project

$0.00

$1,360,979.41

Lunch Fund

$61,519.99

Total Activity Account

$2,444,557.51

$33,141.96

October and November Calendar

Please Vote

It is important and it does count!

6

Lost Creek Guide

Caldara: Why I Dropped Poop on the Steps of Denver City Hall

By Jon Caldara, President of the Independence Institute, Complete Colorado Page 2 Absolutely it was a stunt. Maybe even a childish one. But I guarantee you it was born of anger, quite genuinely.

Last Monday, I again scooped the human excrement I often clean up from around my downtown office building, left along with the other trash from Denver’s finest homeless. But this time, in front of television cameras and reporters, I literally dropped it on the steps of Denver’s City Hall.

Why City Hall? Because the decisions made inside that building by city council members and mayors are the reasons this filth keeps piling up.

I’ve received angry phone calls from people saying my stunt was cruel, stigmatizing the homeless. I pointed out that they trespass on private property and defecate on it.

It’s not fake news.

What I find cruel is since John Hickenlooper started rewarding vagrancy as Denver mayor, the victims of this homeless crisis — taxpayers, residents, workers and visitors — seem not to matter to our city and state leaders.

If our elected officials cared just one-tenth as much for the victims of the crimes caused by the mentally ill and drugged on the streets as they do providing services for them, our streets would be clean and safe.

The not-for-profit organization I run, Independence Institute, was founded in 1985 with a mission of promoting personal and economic liberty, and the responsibility that goes with it, in Colorado. To purchase a building within walking distance of the State Capitol was always a dream. When we made it happen more than a decade ago it transformed our work.

Like a homeowner’s first house is to them, this building is to us and our donors. It is a jewel to us, hopefully a point of pride to our neighbors and an outhouse, trashcan, opium den and crash-pad for drugged-out, casual criminals.

In the last several years we had to regularly clean up litter, trash bottles, used condoms, urine, vomit, used syringes and human feces from all around our private property. Our windows have been broken. The building has been broken into and vandalized.

On a regular basis we must chase people off our property — that is if we can wake them up.

These people party like rock stars and we have no choice but to clean up their mess at our expense. They trashed the hotel room, where we play both the maid and the hotel owner.

Call the police, you say? It’s hard to dust poop or vomit for fingerprints. And if somebody is trespassing and camped out on our property, they don’t arrest them.

They tell the vagrant, “I’ll be back in 15 minutes and if you are still here, I’ll arrest you.” Neither cop nor vagrant is there 15 minutes later. But the needles, vomit and feces are.

The vagrants always come back. The police, well, not always.

We spend a fair amount of money to keep the building looking nice, money we cannot use on our mission.

We have landscaping and lawn work and beautiful trees. People walk their dogs by our property and often the dogs relieve themselves on our grass. Each and every time they do the dog’s owner picks up after them. How odd is it that dog owners care more about the city than the human beings who defecate on it?

There are trash cans just 20 feet away from where we clean up human feces. But the good people who leave their waste and needles and bottles feel no obligation to use those trash cans.

Is it time to pass a law requiring all vagrants wear adult diapers? Honestly, I’ve just hit my limit. What do I hope out of this childish little stunt? I hope more people do the same. I hope more people are tired of this crap and don’t take it anymore.

It’s time for a little civil disobedience. It’s time for the victims to stand up for themselves.

We must clean up after these people the city refuses to take off the streets. Let’s take the extra step to leave the garbage where the problem really started: City Hall.

And maybe the media would start elevating the other victims of homelessness: the victims of crime.

How funny would it be if they arrested us?

It would only show their castle is worth protecting, but ours is not.

Jon Caldara is president of the Independence Institute, a free market think tank in Denver.

October 18, 2023

Fort Morgan eBike Giveaway

It was a joyful occasion on Saturday morning as 30 Morgan Community College (MCC) residents received electric bikes (e-bikes) thanks to a grant from the Colorado Department of Energy and local efforts.

The grant paid for 30 e-bikes and safety gear, which came to a total of $100,000.

Each bike cost $3,000. Bike recipients were selected through a competitive application process consisting of 79 applications.

The event consisted of giving away the bikes, instructions on how to safely lock them up, and a ride across town for some ice cream!

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October 18, 2023

Lost Creek Guide

7

Morgan County Republican Party Holds Candidate Night and Ballot Initiative Information Pot Luck Dinner at the Gene Doty Senior Center in Fort Morgan

Your Morgan County Republican Party is a group of freedom-loving individuals who are seeking to educate and inform the voters of Morgan County about your rights and what is happening at our county, state, and federal levels of government. We, as your county Republican party, believe that voting is every American’s civic right and civic responsibly; as such, we also believe that all voters have the right to be informed on the issues that they will be voting on and should have the ability to connect and get to know the candidates that they will have the opportunity to choose from. This is exactly why we hosted our biannual Candidate Night and Ballot Initiative Potluck on September 25th as a way for the people to be able to hear from our candidates who are running for 2024 and as a way to learn about both propositions II and HH. We currently have three Republicans that are running for the open Morgan County Commissioner District 1 seat this 2024 election, these candidates (in order of how they spoke last Monday) are: Rena Baessler, Nathan Troudt, and Kelvin Bernhardt. Our other Republican candidates that have announced their intentions for re-election in 2024 are: Morgan County Commissioner Gordon Westhoff for District 3 and District Attorney Travis Sides for the 13th Judicial District. If you missed meeting these candidates, rest assured we will have other events and meetings before the County Caucuses and Assembly in March for you to ask them your questions and express your concerns.

Please contact Chairman Dusty Johnson at daj3795@yahoo.com or (970) 370-1154 if you have any questions or want to get involved. All are welcome and invited to attend our meetings and events.

Kristi Burton Brown

Dusty Johnson and Byron Pelton

Rena Baessler

Nathan Troudt

Kevin Bernhart

Gorden Westoff

Travis Sides

Brian Urdiales

Weld County Offers Free Breast Cancer Screenings During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

WELD COUNTY, CO — October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when communities nationwide unite to raise awareness about breast cancer, emphasize the significance of early detection, and offer support to those affected by this devastating disease. Breast cancer affects one in eight women in the United States each year, impacting over 2.3 million women globally.

In the spirit of this campaign, the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) is highlighting various essential services through its Women’s Wellness Connection (WWC) Program. The program’s primary objective is to provide free breast and cervical cancer screenings to low- income women aged 40 to 64 years in Weld County. These screenings are pivotal for early detection and can play a crucial role in cancer prevention.

Regular screenings empower women to take charge of their health and wellbeing. “”When you’re informed, you’re in control,”” says Shaun May, Director of Weld County’s Clinical and Community Health Division. “”Early detection can significantly enhance the chances of successful treatment and long-term survival for those diagnosed with breast cancer.”

The WCDPHE is not only committed to delivering clinical services but also offers additional support to ensure that all eligible women can access these critical screenings. Services encompass one-on-one health education, translation assistance, transportation arrangements, dependent care options, and help with appointment scheduling and health insurance enrollment.

If you or someone you know may be eligible for free breast and cervical cancer screenings through the Women’s Wellness Connection Program, contact the WCDPHE’s Clinical and Community Health Division at (970) 400-6420. The dedicated health professionals are prepared to help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the necessary steps to prioritize your health.

More information on the WWC program is at www.weld.gov/go/wwc and information on National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is at NationalBreastCancer. org/breast-cancer-awareness-month.

8

Lost Creek Guide

Colorado Governor Forms Panel To Recommend Replacement For Criminal Justice Commission Shut Down

By Statehouse Democrats

The Colorado Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice was disbanded this year in a surprise vote. The governor’s task force is also allowed to make policy recommendations to the legislature.

by Jesse Paul, The Colorado Sun Gov. Jared Polis issued an executive order Monday forming a task force charged with recommending a replacement for a panel that helped guide the Colorado legislature on criminal justice policy for more than a decade before it was shut down this year by Democratic state lawmakers who said it wasn’t operating as intended.

The governor’s task force is also charged with filling the policy-recommendation void left when the Colorado Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice stopped operating earlier this year and until a replacement is created.

“We want the work to continue,” Polis said in an interview with The Colorado Sun. The CCJJ, formed by the General Assembly in 2007 and the brainchild of then-Gov. Bill Ritter, was intended to help remove partisanship from the process of drafting criminal justice reform policy. The 30-member panel was made up of legislators, prosecutors, representatives of the court and community members.

But progressive Democrats in the General Assembly this year began to have doubts about the commission and shut it down in a surprise vote in the final days of the 2023 legislative session when it came up for reauthorization in the House Judiciary Committee.

“I think we spent the last 20 years coming back and fixing policy that CCJJ has recommended,” state Rep. Lorena Garcia, an Adams County Democrat and a member of the House Judiciary Committee, told The Colorado Sun in May. Polis and moderate Democrats were furious at the decision, with the governor quickly vowing to pursue a replacement.

The working group formed by Polis’ executive order will have 17 members: • A county human services representative • A victim advocate • A person who is a victim of crime • A person who is a former offender • A representative in the field of behavioral health or mental health, or a substance use disorder treatment provider • A law enforcement representative • A person with criminal defense experience • An academic specializing in matters related to criminal justice • Invitations to four legislators to participate, starting with the chairs and ranking members of the House and Senate judiciary committees • The attorney general, or their designee • The executive director of the Department of Public Safety, or their designee • The executive director of the Department of Corrections, or their designee • The executive director of the Colorado District Attorneys’ Council, or their designee, who will serve as a co-chair of the working group • The State Public Defender, or their designee, who will serve as a co-chair of the working group The task force, whose makeup is similar to the CCJJ, though it has less influence from the courts, is charged with presenting its recommendations on a CCJJ replacement or replacements by March 1.

Polis said he hopes the legislature, which reconvenes in January and operates for 120 days, will pass a bill acting on the panel’s advice.

One advantage of a criminal justice policy commission created by the legislature is that it can be better staffed than a panel created through an executive order, Polis said.

“We’ll do our best to make it work,” Polis said.

The governor said his executive order doesn’t have an end date, meaning the working group can remain in place indefinitely. It’s his plan, however, to end the task force should and once the legislature creates a CCJJ replacement.

“If there’s a formal group in statute, the executive order would likely be rescinded at that point,” Polis said The ACLU of Colorado, one of the groups that urged the legislature not to reauthorize the CCJJ, said Monday that it was disappointed with the makeup of the governor’s task force.

“We agree the sunsetting of the CCJJ should be an opportunity to ‘reimagine criminal justice policy and reform work in Colorado’ but that reimagining will be much harder to achieve when it’s the same cooks in the same kitchen as the CCJJ,” said Taylor Pendergrass, the group’s director of advocacy. “It is precisely because some criminal justice issues can be complex that a rigid, one-size-fits-all permanent committee is likely not the best way to do criminal justice policy making. It didn’t work well in the last few years in the CCJJ, it’s not an approach you see much of in other states, and it’s not something we embrace with other complex policymaking in Colorado — whether that is housing, water or education.”

Garcia, the state representative who voted against reauthorizing the CCJJ, said Monday that she was disappointed in the governor’s order.

“I would like the see the focus of a criminal justice commission focus on innovative effective prevention methods, not debunked sentencing motivators that cost the state tons of money that could be funneled to early childhood, K-12 education (and) transportation,” she said.

The CCJJ’s work in recent years led to a rewrite of the state’s criminal code to downgrade the penalties for misdemeanors and reclassify a number of crimes as lower-level offenses. This year, three bills debated in the legislature originated in the CCJJ, including a controversial change to the state’s auto theft laws that was panned by progressives because of how it increased penalties for some kinds of car theft.

State Sen. Julie Gonzales, a Denver Democrat and chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, told The Sun that the CCJJ didn’t have enough racial or geographic diversity, nor enough people who had “lived experience” with the criminal justice system.

October 18, 2023

“It was my understanding that the CCJJ was meant to be a place free from politics where you could dive into issues, as difficult or complicated or nuanced as they may be,” Gonzales said. “But increasingly CCJJ became a place where we, as a legislature, sent things that we didn’t really want to study or wanted to slow down.”

Polis said he was disappointed when the CCJJ wasn’t reauthorized and that he thinks the work the panel did changed Colorado for the better.

“Look at the body of work — over 100 bills that became law,” he said. “I would really put the question to anybody: Is Colorado more just and safer because of the over 100 bills that came out of CCJJ? I think almost anyone anywhere on the spectrum would agree that while, of course, nobody can get everything perfect every time, Colorado is safer and more just because of those over 100 bills that came out of this process — that became law.”

Law enforcement groups and prosecutors celebrated Polis’ order in statement’s released by the governor’s office.

The Colorado Sun is a reader-supported news organization that covers Colorado people, places and issues. To sign up for free newsletters, subscribe or learn more, visit ColoradoSun.com

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October 18, 2023

9

Lost Creek Guide

Republican Women of Weld September 28th Monthly Meeting at Ben’s Pizzeria in Hudson, Colorado with Steve Wells of Deep Colorado Wells as Guest Speaker

by Bob Grand It was an absolute jam packed meeting at Ben’s Brick Oven Pizza in Hudson, Colorado. Steve Wells of Deep Colorado Wells was the guest speaker and gave the group much to consider. His presentation provided an insight into the last general election and his efforts to have an impact. It was sincere and from the heart. He made several observations which really made you think. His theme was focused on striving to do better and how we make that happen. Sharing not only his views but asking the audience to help him in his quest to strive to do better.

He focused on a dozen themes: Homelessness, question right & wrong, race& sex; climate control; animals; disagreements; success; addiction & mental health; capitalism; family values, criminals; and religion. He touched on each that generated robust discussion from the audience. He made the point, several times, that it is important to get involved, and to stop feeling guilty about doing the right thing. It is ok to ask questions. We should be asking what things make us the same, not focus on the differences, which tends to polarize rather than drive consensus that might lead to solutions.

A lot of good dialogue. How to successfully strive to do better, that was the question he left with everyone, sincerely asking people to think about it and contact him with ideas. He was asking for help.

Go to www.DeepColoradoWells.com, or Facebook, or X (previously Twitter) or and TikTok to contact.

Being the beginning of the political season, the event was attended by many Republican candidates as well as interested citizens. The Republican Women of Weld put forth another dynamic program that generated lively dialogue and encouraged people to strive to do better.

Steve Wells, Deep Wells Colorado

Gillian Smith, President of Republican Women of Weld

Kevin Ross, Weld County Commissioner At Large

Gabe Evans, Colorado House District 48, Candidate for Republican CD 8 Congressional Race

Dan Woog, Republican Candidate for Colorado House District 19

Byron Pelton, Colorado Senator for District #1

Mike Lynch, Colorado State House Minority Leader, District 68

Adrienne Sandoval, Mayor of Platteville and Candidate for Weld County Commissioner District 3 & husband Steve

Steve Merino, retired Weld County Commissioner & Dick Wadhams, Political Consultant

TaRisa Campbell: Candidate for School DistrictRE8 in Fort Lupton

Public Star Night – October 20, 2023 – Scott Kindt – Astrophotography

Mark Rennert Oct 12 Public Star Night – Friday, October 20, 2023 Little Thompson Observatory Doors Open: 7:00 | Guest Speaker: 7:30-8:30 | Observing at LTO: 8:30-10:00 Astrophotography A special presentation by Scott Kindt Our guest speaker is Scott Kindt, who has been science teacher at Berthoud High School since 1995, where he is able to use astro-photography as a way to get students interested in Astronomy. He currently teaches math at Resurrection High School and has been taking astro-photos for the past two decades. As a young boy, he observed the moon through a small telescope as the Apollo Astronauts navigated the lunar surface. This event sparked a lifelong interest in Science and Astronomy.

Scott’s astro-photos have appeared in a number of publications including Homestead magazine and his astro-photos are on display in art galleries along the Front Range. He graduated from Miami University in 1989 and has spent the past twenty eight years teaching high school students Physics and Astronomy. Scott has pursued astro-photography because it is one of those eclectic endeavors that combine art and science into an exciting hobby. He often travels hundreds of miles to get the perfect deep space image or earth and sky photo.

Scott’s presentation will cover how to take astro-photos and current trends in AI image processing for astrophotography. Topics will include both deep-space imaging along with earth and sky night photography. There will also be some tips on essential camera and telescope equipment. You can see Scott’s astrophotos on his web site http://scottkindtphotography.com Following the talk by Scott, the observatory will be open for public viewing through our telescopes, weather permitting.

10

Lost Creek Guide

Brush Defeats Weld Central Football, 30-6

By Paul Dineen (GetThePictureSportLLC@gmail.com) Photos courtesy of OTSPORTSCHEK / Paul Dineen Weld Central Rebels football visited the Brush Beetdiggers on October 12. Brush prevailed, scoring all thirty of their points in the first half (on four touchdowns and PATs plus a safety), while the Rebels scored all of theirs in the second half (on two field goals). Brush moves to 5-2 overall, 3-0 in 2A Patriot league. Weld Central to 3-4, 0-3 in 2A Patriot.

Richie Bruno scored two rushing touchdowns for Brush.

Cole Curtis scored a touchdown and blocked this Rebel punt, leading to a safety.

Jace Cornelius runs the ball for Weld Central.

Beetdiggers quarterback Eric Rico ran for one touchdown.

October 18, 2023

Grants Available for Projects Showcasing Agrivoltaics in Colorado

Broomfield, Colo. — To help demonstrate one of the many ways agriculture can contribute to addressing the effects of climate change, Colorado is investing $500,000 in projects that help advance the use of agrivoltaics in the state.

Agrivoltaics is the practice of co-locating solar energy installations and agriculture, with crops or grazing land beneath or between rows of photovoltaic panels. Now, farmers, ranchers, and other landowners with innovative ideas on how to use agrivoltaics in Colorado will have a chance to apply for funding for their projects.

“Adding solar energy development to working farms and ranches is a unique opportunity to create multiple benefits on a single piece of land,” said Les Owen, Director of CDA’s Conservation Services Division. “Funding further development and research of agrivoltaics will support both Colorado’s producers and Colorado’s renewable energy goals.”

Through the Agrivoltaics Research and Demonstration Grant Program, the Colorado Department of Agriculture will fund projects that study the benefits and tradeoffs of agrivoltaics in the state.

Grant funding proposals can cover a variety of projects, including: • construction of agrivolatic systems • expansion of existing demonstration projects • research projects around the benefits and costs of agrivoltaics • outreach and education projects that focus on understanding the barriers and opportunities of co-locating solar development on agricultural lands.

Grant applications are accepted until 5 pm on Friday, October 27, 2023. Interested applicants can find the grant information, guidelines and the application at ag. colorado.gov/ADCRO. CDA will host a webinar on the application process on Monday, October 9, 2023 at 1 pm. Interested participants can register here.

Funding for this program comes from Senate Bill 23-092. In August 2023, CDA convened a Steering Committee of industry and agricultural experts to advise on the purpose and design of this grant program. These Grant Guidelines describe the purpose and objectives of the grant program, as well as the responsibilities of the grantees.

This grant is administered by the Agricultural Drought and Climate Resilience Office (ADCRO), which helps advance CDA’s goal of Expanding Water-Resilient Agriculture. Through a comprehensive approach that includes technical assistance, grant funding, marketing assistance, advocacy, and partnerships, CDA seeks to maintain robust agricultural production while ensuring the sustainable use of water resources. For more information, please visit ag.colorado.gov/ADCRO. Recognizing that climate change causes pressing dangers that can lead to public health and safety risks, Colorado is committed to 100% net-zero greenhouse emissions by 2050. The state is taking action across all sectors of the economy, including agriculture, in ways that will not only protect public health and reduce air pollution, but also create significant cost savings on energy, transportation, and goods.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

We all make mistakes in many areas of life. These mistakes are usually fairly harmless — we took a wrong turn while driving, used the wrong ingredients in a recipe and so on. But sometimes, our mistakes can be costly — especially those connected to investing.

Here are some of the most common investment mistakes: • Too much buying and selling – Some people find it exciting to constantly buy and sell investments in the pursuit of big gains. Yet, frequent trading can work against you in a couple of ways. First, it can be expensive — if you’re always buying and selling investments, you could rack up taxes, fees and commissions. Perhaps even more important, though, excessive purchases and sales can make it difficult to follow a unified, cohesive investment strategy. Such a strategy requires, among other things, careful construction and management of an investment portfolio

Kyle S. Bernhardt

Financial Advisor 606 Grant St. Ft. Morgan, CO 80701 970-542-6401

Avoid These Investment Mistakes

that’s appropriate for your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. Heavy trading can disrupt this strategy.

• Failing to diversify – If you only owned one type of asset, such as growthoriented stocks, your portfolio could take a hit when the financial markets go through a downturn. But not all investments will respond the same way to the same forces — for example, stocks and bonds can move in different directions at any given time. And that’s why it’s usually a good idea to own a mix of investments, which can include domestic and foreign stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit (CDs) and government securities. Keep in mind, though, that while diversification can help reduce the impact of market volatility, it can’t guarantee profits or protect against losses in a declining market.

• Trying to “time” the market – “Buy low and sell high” might be the original piece of investment advice, but it’s pretty

Timothy R. Guggenmos Financial Advisor 228 Main St. Ft. Morgan, CO 80701 970-867-2441

Mark A. Hough

Financial Advisor 513 Main St. Ste A Fort Morgan, CO 80701 970-542-3048

hard to follow — because no one can really predict when an investment will reach “low” or “high” points. Also, trying to “time” the market in this way can lead to bad decisions, such as selling investments whose price has dropped, even if these same investments still have good business fundamentals and strong prospects.

• Not understanding what you’re investing in – If you don’t know the nature of investments when you buy them, you could set yourself up for unpleasant surprises. For example, some companies, by the very nature of their business and the type of industry they’re in, may consistently pay dividends to their investors even though their stock prices may only show relatively modest price gains over time. If you bought shares of this stock, thinking it had the potential to achieve quite substantial appreciation, you might end up disappointed.

• Making the wrong comparisons –

Wes Cable

Financial Advisor 611 Edison St Brush, CO 80723 970-842-2252

You’re no doubt familiar with some of the most well-known investment benchmarks — the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite. But it might be counterproductive to compare your results against these indexes. If you have a diversified portfolio, you’ll own an array of investments that won’t fit into any single index or benchmark, so you won’t get an apples-to-apples comparison. You’re better off comparing your portfolio’s performance against the only benchmark that really matters — the progress you need to make to help achieve your goals.

Investing will always have its challenges — but you can help make it easier on yourself by staying away from as many mistakes as possible.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Forrest Hough

Financial Advisor 129 S. 4th Ave Brighton, CO 80601 303-659-2301

October 18, 2023

11

Lost Creek Guide

How A Colorado Community College Attracted More Older Students To College

by Jason Gonzales, Chalkbeat

Several community colleges statewide have increased enrollment among older students.

Ann Schimke / Chalkbeat

Colorado’s community colleges have struggled to enroll older adults since the start of the pandemic, but several schools have been able to work against that trend by helping them with their busy lives.

For example, Pueblo Community College leaders have found ways to cater to and begin to attract older students, or those who aren’t recent high school graduates. The school has leaned into using remote learning, creating flexible class schedules, and offering more child care options to help older adults.

Those changes have made it easier for older students to see themselves on campus, state and school leaders say, while also focusing on the increasing demand among high schoolers participating in concurrent enrollment — a program offered to high school students to take college level courses and even earn an associate’s degree.

“We’ve tried to look at the whole student and make sure that they have the financial resources that they need, but also all of the support services that they need to be successful,” said Patricia Erjavec, Pueblo Community College president.

Overall, the state’s community colleges, as of the end of September, are educating 8.5% more students over last year, or about 84,000 students, up from 78,274 at the same time last year.

Community college enrollment remains below 2019 levels, but concurrent enrollment has helped reduce the losses in the last couple years.

Statewide, concurrent enrollment has increased by 18.5% over last year, or an increase of 5,651 students. On average, most high school students enrolled in the program only take a couple courses.

Degree-seeking student enrollment at the state’s 13 colleges varied this year.

Students seeking a degree increased by 2% over last year, or about 1,000 students.

Degree-seeking students include those that have just graduated from high school and students who are going to college after taking a break from school. The state has struggled to get the second group, especially students ages 21-39, to enroll.

The slower rebound in older adults enrolling statewide can likely be attributed to the state’s economy, said Landon Pirius, vice chancellor of academic and student affairs of the college system.

Older students tend to enroll at higher rates during economic downturns to get job training that opens up jobs with higher pay. But Colorado has a strong job market, with one job for every two residents.

Yet, some of the most in-demand jobs require a college education and the state has created new free college training programs in fields such as health care, law enforcement, firefighting, construction, and teaching.

The state must continue to cater to adults through flexible class schedules and support that takes into consideration that many adults come to college with bills to pay and families to support, Pirius said.

“I think we can get there, but I think our systems currently aren’t set up to support adult students as well as they are students who are straight out of high school,” he said.

Pueblo Community College has so far increased concurrent enrollment numbers by 30% this year over last year, second only to Red Rocks Community College.

Erjavec said the school has expanded what it offers to high school students.

The school has a new law academy and enrolled more criminal justice students.

Pueblo Community College also started a Friday academy, where concurrent enrollment students come to the school every week. They get to see what it’s like at college, Erjavec said, and help spread the word about the benefits of concurrent enrollment.

Degree-seeking student enrollment among older students has increased by 3.5% over last year. Schools such as Pikes Peak, Front Range, and the Community College of Denver also have boosted enrollment.

Erjavec said the region’s economy might

be playing into why it’s seeing interest from older adults. Pueblo has lagged behind the rest of the state in economic growth as a manufacturing city that’s experienced a shrinking of industry in recent years.

Because of the area’s economy, more students might be looking for new opportunities through going to college, Erjavec said.

Her goal is to make it easier for adults to be on campus or take classes.

“We serve a very low socioeconomic, rural area,” Erjavec said. “I always tell my team we get one chance to make sure that the students get the best academic experience they can.”

So far, changes have come without big financial investments, Erjavec said.

The school has relied more on bolstering its remote or hybrid learning options, which especially helps adults who can’t always be on campus because of work or family obligations, she said.

School officials also are thinking about how to provide support or academic services outside of normal school hours.

And the school also has a new child care center at its St. Mary’s-Corwin campus, and she hopes to grow on-campus child care options. The goal is to make students comfortable on campus and build trust that the college can work for them, she said.

“I think we have a good reputation,” Erjavec said. “Students know that and they count on that when they enroll with us.”

Jason Gonzales is a reporter covering higher education and the Colorado legislature.

Chalkbeat Colorado partners with Open Campus on higher education coverage.

Contact Jason at jgonzales@chalkbeat.org.

Fort Morgan Police Chief Loren Sharp Swears in Chris Buckhart as an Honorary Police Officer

If you know Chris Burkhart, you know how much he has supported the police & first responders. He is always willing to help others and has dreamed of being a police officer for some time. For all these reasons, Chris was sworn in by Chief Sharp as an Honorary Police Officer.

During the ceremony, Chief Sharp stated: “One does not become an Honorary Police Officer for what that it can do for that person, but to support his local police in trying to make our city a better and safer place to live.” This is what Chris Burkhart is all about and we are honored to be forever linked to him as a brother in blue.

After the swearing in ceremony, Chris said a few words to the officers and family members in attendance. He shared his admiration for his family and his blue family as well. He then completed a ride-along with Sergeant Creech to finish his shift.

Please help us congratulate Honorary Officer Burkhart and thank him for his support of the Fort Morgan Police Department and all first responders. He is greatly appreciated!

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Lost Creek Guide

CDOT Calls for Heightened Awareness of Pedestrian Safety as Days Grow Shorter and Darker

October 4, 2023 - Statewide Safety News - October is Pedestrian Safety Awareness Month Statewide — This year, pedestrian fatalities are on track to reach an all-time high for the state. This Pedestrian Safety Month, CDOT is urging all roadway users to drive, walk and ride with care.

October through December historically have the most pedestrian fatalities in Colorado, largely due to the shorter days and longer nights.

Pedestrian Fatalities by Month 2019 through 2022 Pedestrians are especially vulnerable in the dark since they can be hard to see by motorists. For example, more than 66% of fatal pedestrian crashes occurred at night in the first six months of 2023. Therefore, as we head into darker months, CDOT urges drivers and pedestrians alike to use caution.

As of September 30, there were 87 pedestrian fatalities on Colorado roadways, up from 78 at this time last year. Men make up a staggering 75% of all pedestrian fatalities this year.

One of the primary ways CDOT addresses vulnerable roadway user safety is through system enhancements for bicyclists and pedestrians. CDOT considers context sensitive solutions in designs that further safety infrastructure for bicyclists and pedestrians. Using safety and specific location data, CDOT is able to design for safe crossings and facilities at hotspots and challenging intersections. In addition, the Revitalizing Main Streets program enhances local economic vitality in towns and cities across Colorado through funding infrastructure improvements to make walking and biking easy, yielding long-term benefits that bolster community connections.

In addition to infrastructure projects across the state, CDOT’s Highway Safety Office addresses pedestrian safety through grants to law enforcement and for local awareness efforts.

“We are committed to enhancing pedestrian safety across our state, and at CDOT, we believe in a comprehensive approach,” said CDOT’s Office of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk. “Our strategy combines collaborative efforts on education and awareness as well as safer roadway design to minimize danger to pedestrians. We are dedicated to making Colorado’s streets and sidewalks more secure for everyone who uses them.”

In observance of National Pedestrian Safety Month, CDOT is sharing the following tips: Safety Tips for Pedestrians • Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available • Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections • Stay off your phone when crossing the street • Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right • Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking; they impair your abilities and your judgment • At night, wear light colors and walk where streetlights will illuminate you • Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots Safety Tips for Drivers • Look out for pedestrians and bicyclists everywhere, at all times, and especially in areas near schools, parks, shopping areas and transit stops • Follow the speed limit. Speeding motorists endanger everyone on the road but put pedestrians at the greatest risk for death or serious injury • Stop before a crosswalk, not in it • Never drive impaired • Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or entering a crosswalk • At night, reduce your speed and make sure your headlights are on “Put the phone down — sending or reading a short text takes your eyes off the road for almost five seconds,” said CDOT Bike and Pedestrian Program Manager Annelies van Vonno. “At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.”

About the Bicycle and Pedestrian Program Walking and bicycling can be a fun and healthy way to enjoy our beautiful state, and CDOT encourages residents to make bicycling and walking a part of their regular routine.

For more information on safety practices for pedestrians and drivers or how to get involved with programs like Safe Routes to School or Colorado’s annual Bike to Work Day, visit www.codot.gov/programs/bikeped.

October 18, 2023

Wiggins Volleyball Defeats Sedgwick County in Five Sets

By Paul Dineen (GetThePictureSportLLC@gmail.com) Photos courtesy of OTSPORTSCHEK / Paul Dineen The Wiggins Tigers hosted the Sedgwick County Cougars in girls volleyball on September 21st. Wiggins won in five sets, 22-25, 25-17, 25-15, 29-31, 15-12.

Sedgwick was the 2A champion for the two previous seasons. Wiggins was a semi-finalist both times. In the year before that, Wiggins was the champion, with Sedgwick a semi-finalist.

Wiggins entered this match with a record of 10-1 and 2-0 in the 2A/1A Lower Platte league. Their only loss had come at the hands of 3A Platte Valley.

Sedgwick County entered at 9-2 and 0-0. Their losses were to 1A Haxtun and 3A Liberty Common.

This year’s Wiggins roster of twelve has ten players from last year’s squad. This year’s Sedgwick County roster of twelve has seven players from last year’s team.

As befitting two top teams, the quality of play was excellent. Both teams made impressive plays and relatively few unforced errors. For example, comparing this match with the August 26 match between 4-6 Caliche and 5-8 Holyoke, the Wiggins/ Sedgwick teams combined would have had to make twenty-four more errors than the ninety-nine that they did make in order to match the Caliche/Holyoke rate.

For Wiggins, stats leaders were: Tyleigh Fehseke with twenty-three kills, Kennedy Kerr with four service aces and forty-six assists, Taelynn Eppie with five blocks, and Payton Malone with sixteen digs and twenty-eight service receives.

For Sedgwick, stats leaders were: Lainee Nein with eighteen kills, Ryen Carlson with thirty-three assists and three service aces and seventeen digs, Chloe Thode and Abigail Dille and Keyana Ehnes each with one block, and Abigail Dille with thirty service receives.

Wiggins’ next match is at home on October 6 versus Holyoke. Sedgwick’s next match is at home on October 7 versus Merino.

Kennedy Kerr of Wiggins led all players with forty-six assists.

Ryen Carlson led Sedgwick in assists, service aces and digs.

Tyleigh Fehseke of Wiggins led all attackers with twenty-three kills. Keyana Ehnes (12) and Chloe Thode (10) attempt the block for Sedgwick.

Keyana Ehnes connects on a kill try for Sedgwick, Taelynn Epple (23) and Tyleigh Fehseke (18) attempt the block for Wiggins.

Local Youth Cowgirl Wins All Around Title

by Madison Richmann Marley May Mildenberger, a 6 year old, from Wiggins Colorado has started her rodeo career out strong. If there are horses involved, Marley wants to be there. There is no better place then the back of her horse Francis if you ask the 1st grader who attends Cardinal Community Academy. Marley is the daughter of Jerrad and Dana Mildenberger, and has a younger brother Memphis who is her biggest cheerleader. Her grandparents also fill the stands cheering for their favorite little cowgirl.

Doug and Johanna Abbott, Sandy Havengar, and Kenny Johnson all from right here in Keenesburg, can all agree that watching their granddaughter compete is among their favorite things to do. Marley comes from a long line of rodeo competitors who have taught her the ropes and reins of the western lifestyle.

Last year was Marley’s first year competitively rodeoing at the Rockin K Family rodeos held every summer in Keenesburg. She had a great year last year and ended up the runner up for the all around title. This year though, Marley improved in every event, and dominated her last year as a pee wee at Rockin K. She ended her summer with a 3rd place in the barrel race, 1st place in the stick horse race, goat tail pull, pole bending, and flag race, and the best title of them all, she was named the pee wee all around champion.

As Marley moves into the youth division next year along with other associations and competitions, we can confidently say she is ready for the next level. Moving up in divisions brings on new events and new challenges, including goat tying, one of her moms favorites.

Dana grew up as a fierce goat tying competitor, and is very excited to teach her daughter and watch her follow in her footsteps.

As a community, we congratulate Miss Marley on her all around title among other accomplishments, and wish her the very best in her the rest of her rodeo career!

October 18, 2023

Lost Creek Guide

Eaton Defeats Brush Softball, 16-0, with a Three Innings No-hitter

By Paul Dineen (GetThePictureSportLLC@gmail.com) Photos courtesy of OTSPORTSCHEK / Paul Dineen Eaton Reds softball visited the Brush Beetdiggers on October 5 in the last regular season game for both teams. The Reds won 16-0 in three innings by run rule (a fifteen run lead after three innings). The two Eaton pitchers combined to throw a no-hitter.

They were one walk away from a perfect game. Line: Eaton sixteen runs, ten hits, no errors. Brush no hits, no runs, four errors.

Eaton entered the game 21-1 overall and 11-0 in the 3A/4A Patriot league. Brush entered 11-11 and 4-7.

Eaton began the game with a bang. Freshman Emma Anderson hit a lead off home run to left center. That was the first of two runs in that inning. Eaton would score five in the second and nine in the third. The big blow in the third was a grand slam by senior Sadie Ross. That was Ross’ tenth home run on the season, finishing her atop the 3A/4A Patriot league with ten.

Eaton was led by Emma Anderson with three hits. Julia Meagher and Sadie Ross each had four RBI. Zoe Hamilton stole two bases. For Brush, Alysia Hernandez’s walk prevented an Eaton perfect game.

Destrie Grieman started on the mound for Eaton, going two innings and allowing one walk and two wild pitches while striking out three. Sadie Ross hurled the third, striking out the side. Avery Lefever pitched for brush, allowing sixteen runs (eight earned) on nine hits, six walks, two wild pitches and two hit batters.

Brush is ranked #15 in the postseason tournament. They will play #18 Meeker in the first round, to be played at Strasburg on a date TBD. Eaton is ranked #1 in the postseason tournament. They will play #32 Jefferson Academy in the first round, to be played at Eaton on a date TBD.

Sadie Ross hits a grand slam for Eaton.

Destrie Greiman started for Eaton and combined with Sade Ross to throw a no-hitter.

Avery Lefever pitched for Brush.

Julia Meagher was two for three for Eaton with four RBI.

Changing of the Leaves Expected to Bring Additional Mountain Traffic

Denver – The Colorado Department of Transportation is reminding drivers to plan on additional traffic in the high country, especially over the next few weekends, as people head out to see the fall colors.

Mountain roads see increased traffic when the aspens begin turning to red and gold, so drivers and those taking photos outside of their vehicles and walking along roadways need to watch out for each other.

Be a Smart Leaf Peeper - Tips for driving along roads and highways this fall: • Beware of other vehicles that may be traveling at lower speeds.

• Watch for vehicles pulling off the roadways, and vehicles parked on the roadside.

• Find safe, designated areas to park.

• Drivers be aware of pedestrians! People will be out of their vehicles, often taking photos.

• Pedestrians should be extremely diligent and watch out for passing vehicles.

Leaf peeping season also is a good time to explore one of Colorado’s 26 Scenic and Historic Byways. Leaf peepers are encouraged to visit www.COtrip.org to see where all of the Scenic and Historic Byways are and learn fun facts, estimated drive times, key attractions, route length and more! Plan your route ahead of time by clicking on the Scenic Byways layer on the Layers menu on both COtrip.org and the COtrip Planner App. Construction zones are possible on state roadways CDOT also is reminding drivers that highway work zones are possible, even on weekends. Although most projects shut down for the weekend, some may take advantage of favorable fall weather to continue construction activities before winter weather stops work until the spring.

Know Before You Go Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include: • Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org • Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp • Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts • See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures • Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Download the COtrip App! The new FREE COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

FORT MORGAN www.CityOfFortMorgan.com

MCC CACE Presents the Mystery of Publishing, Unraveled: An Interactive Discussion with Writer Walter Chaw

The Morgan Community College (MCC) Center for Arts and Community Enrichment (CACE) is pleased to announce an exciting event for literature and film enthusiasts. Renowned writer and film critic, Walter Chaw, will be hosting an interactive discussion on November 9, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The free event, titled “The Mystery of Publishing, Renowned writer and film critic, Walter Chaw Unraveled,” will take place in the Bloedorn Lecture Hall on MCC’s Fort Morgan Campus, 920 Barlow Road.

During the event, Mr. Walter Chaw will captivate the audience with excerpts from his most recent book, a critical study focusing on the works of acclaimed screenwriter Walter Hill. As the creative mind behind popular films such as “Aliens” and the renowned “48 Hours” series, Hill’s contributions to the world of cinema have left an indelible mark.

“The Mystery of Publishing, Unraveled” promises to be an insightful exploration into the realm of writing, publishing, and film critiquing. This interactive event encourages audience participation and will provide opportunities to engage in dialogue with Mr. Chaw. Aspiring writers seeking guidance and film enthusiasts eager to gain deeper insights into the works of Walter Hill will have an opportunity to learn and connect with like-minded individuals.

“We are thrilled to host Walter Chaw and create a platform for an enlightening and thought-provoking evening,” said Suzanna Spears, MCC CACE Coordinator.

“This is a rare opportunity for individuals interested in writing, film and the details of storytelling.”

MCC CACE offers many free enrichment opportunities throughout the year. For more information about CACE events, contact CACE Coordinator Suzanna Spears at (970) 542-3180 or Suzanna.Spears@MorganCC.edu. Additional information about CACE is available at www.morgancc.edu./CACE.

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ROAD ROAD ROAD

TRIP TRIP TRIP

While Fort Morgan, Colorado, is uniquely known for a lot of things - Bobstock Music Festival; the final resting place of science fiction writer Philip K. Dick; and one of the most vast & challenging disc golf courses in the state, it is also a popular destination on the eastern plains for a weekend get-away.

Experience the vibes, quaint shops, and pioneering heritage an hour from Denver. Discover more at www.CityOfFortMorgan.com

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Lost Creek Guide

October 18, 2023

October is Co-op Month: Celebrate With Your Local Electric Cooperative

By Morgan County Rural Electric Association What is a cooperative? How does a cooperative work? These are great questions to answer during National Co-op Month, which is celebrated across the country each October.

In short, a cooperative is an organization owned and run jointly by its members, who all share in the benefits of the co-op. Morgan County Rural Electric Association, your local electric cooperative, does just that. In the 1930s, the cost of bringing power to rural areas was often too much for a single farmer or rancher to handle. Instead, many of these individuals came together, pooling their resources to build MCREA’s first 175 miles of powerline, which were energized in 1938.

Since then, MCREA has grown to serve nearly 5,000 members and 2,928 miles of powerline, reaching parts of six different counties in northeastern Colorado. Though the co-op has grown, its mission remains the same; to provide safe, reliable energy with a strong tradition and vision for the future.

Seven cooperative principles guide Morgan County REA toward this mission. The first of which is voluntary and open membership, meaning the co-op is open to anyone needing service within its territory, regardless of race, religion, gender or economic circumstance. The second co-op principle is democratic member control. Board directors are elected by the membership to set policies and make decisions, therefore allowing members to actively participate in the workings of their co-op.

The third principle is members’ economic participation, which means that members contribute equitably to the capital of the cooperative. One unique thing about co-ops is that profits go back to members, not shareholders. When the co-op is in the position to do so, Morgan County REA returns the funds remaining from a given year back to those who were members that year, according to how much power each purchased.

These are called capital credits, and they reflect each member’s contribution to and ownership of the cooperative.

The fourth co-op principle is autonomy and independence, which states that cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members.

The fifth principle is education and training for members, directors, CEOs and employees, so that they can effectively contribute to the development of the cooperative.

The sixth principal—cooperation among cooperatives—is key. Working with each other through local, state and national structures, co-ops improve service to members and deal more effectively with the needs of their communities. Cooperation among cooperatives was put on display in August, as electric co-ops from several states rushed to help fellow co-ops rebuild and get power back on after Hurricane Idalia hit the southeastern coast of the U.S. Concern for community is the seventh cooperative principle, and an especially important one to Morgan County REA. MCREA and its employees are committed to providing the best possible service for its members, while also supporting the communities the co-op serves.

During Co-op Month, Morgan County REA wants to thank all of its members— whether your family has been on the lines for generations or you just moved to the area. After all, MCREA exists because of its members. Morgan County REA is your electric cooperative.

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October 18, 2023

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Lost Creek Guide

SERVICE DIRECTORY Open Mon. - Fri. 8am - 5pm

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

For Local Colorado Information Visit: www.ourtowncolorado.com

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Lost Creek Guide

October 18, 2023

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Wiggins High School Homecoming Pictures Provided by the Wiggins School District