Attempted murder suspect caught

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Two killed in Friday rollover

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Spellcheck and facts as prerequisites to hate - #lakewoodnews

Online comments sections, such as those of The New York Times, have an irresistible pull on me ... to read, that is.

I've never joined in on an online discussion, although I certainly have very strong opinions about what's being said. I do come across some thoughtful and well-considered comments, but many - if not most - of these online posts are spiked with hate, arrogance and ignorance, often expressed in bad grammar and poor spelling.

Not that such errors don't appear in even the articles themselves, of course, as casualties of the instantaneous breaking-story format of internet news. For the online commenters, though, I think some of them are just in a major hurry to launch their points of view into the world of cyberspace. Internet trolls aside (those who post inflammatory statements just to get others riled up), online commenters hurl vehement posts back and forth at each other, often spewing vitriol that is "beyond the pale," as one person commented in a discussion around a Times article about the Republican National Convention in Cleveland last week. He went on to say, "Hate speech need not be true for its consequences to be real."

That statement struck me. I mentioned that I haven't jumped into the fray ... yet. But when I see blatant falsehoods - whether the author knew they were lies or not - my fingers twitch on the keyboard. To clarify, I'm talking about facts here, not people's opinions, which clearly we are all entitled to, but the gibberish that these people put forth as truth.

Part of my character - for good or ill - is an overwhelming need for things to be right. Maybe it's my Libra-driven balanced-scales-of-justice requirement. In any case, I have a barely containable urge to set everyone straight about what they're saying.

My first thought is: Don't these people know? Don't they know that what they are hearing or reading is false? Don't they know that what they are parroting back is false?

My answer to my own question is simply "maybe not." Politics are fascinating to me, and, as an admitted information junkie, I'm devouring as much as I can during this election season. So I really don't (really) expect others to bombard themselves at this level.

And yet, and yet ... the comment I referenced earlier - "Hate speech need not be true for its consequences to be real" - made so much sense to me that I'm actually considering wading into the murky waters of internet discussions.

What would I say? Certainly, I would contribute facts, and references for these facts, to the conversation. I have a myriad of these bookmarked on my computer. But I would also say something like, "If you have to hate - and make sure that everyone else knows you hate - then hate something that's actually real. Not falsehoods created expressly to be shared. Not misleading statements engineered to deceive. And especially not outright lies that could so easily be exposed.

Seek the facts, consider the facts, and, if you must, then hate those facts. Take a stand, sure. Make your voice heard --; without shouting. Share your passionate views with civility.

And please use spellcheck.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Spellcheck-and-facts-as-prerequisites-to-hate,232461?branding=15

Politics has turned world upside down - #lakewoodnews

You have got to be kidding, right?

In the weeks that should be highlighting their qualifications to be president, we have a convention in Cleveland that highlights how unprofessional Trump's bid is and a convention in Philadelphia that highlights how corrupt Hillary's bid is.

And the world laughs at circus clowns.

Of course, with Hillary, the surprise is how blatant it was, and that her camp wasn't able to kill the story before it broke. Had the perfect storm of demographics and discontent that fueled Barack Obama's insurgency campaign in 2008 welled up again this year, maybe Bernie might have had a chance. But the "inevitability" of Hillary pushed out of the process anybody else who may have credibly challenged her, so this sort of thing never saw the light of day when something could have been done about it.

The Republican side is a little harder to sort. First of all, it started with more candidates than pitchers who have lost a game for the Rockies this year, and most of them were creatures of Washington (which, strangely, is an even worse affiliation than "Rockies bullpen"). But that only partially explains Trump --; the rest is, well...

Consider this:

On Sept. 12, 2001, the U.S. flag was everywhere --; houses, trucks, bridges, inappropriate pieces of clothing --; everywhere! Now, not even 15 years later, people are being ordered to remove them from in front of their houses, students wearing flag clothing have been suspended, and many flags are at the bottoms of bonfires these two weeks.

In 1996, a Democrat President Clinton signed into law the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), and it was a major controversy just four years later when Vermont created a statutory provision for civil unions. These days? Not only is gay marriage the law of the land but, a scant 20 years after DOMA, unwilling people are being ordered to participate.

In 2005, one of the more contentious and intractable political debates was about illegal immigration. Today ... OK, never mind, bad example.

In 2001, we felt like we had a grasp of who the enemy was, and we called it as we saw it ... sort of (until we got distracted--;but I digress). Now, barely 15 years later, we're all so afraid to offend that many refuse to even call the enemy by the terms it uses to describe itself.

I list those and I highlight the timeframe that we're talking about to point out the pace of change in our culture over the past two decades, which is independent of political leaning. Agree on the issues or not, the world has undeniably changed in 20 years. I know, to some brought up in the world of the smartphone, 20 years seems like an eternity. But to many who have seen a few 20s in their lives, the speed at which the world is changing is dizzying.

And I use the word "dizzying" advisedly. For some, their sense of what this country is has been completely unhinged and, like the carnival ride that suddenly rotates in a third plane, up becomes down and the world starts spinning. For Democrats, who generally like those changes, Hillary, in spite of her weakness, is a known quantity who has been in the carnival for so long they trust her. And Trump is the carnival barker who some in the GOP are hoping can rein in all the chaos. Whether Trump can, or even wants to, is an open question, but nobody in the bullpen was ever going to be the solution.

So, we, the people, like the parent who gets stuck on too many spinny rides with his child, are left sick to our stomach, wondering what happened, and how did THAT get in my system.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://arvadapress.com/stories/Politics-has-turned-world-upside-down,232462?branding=15

Actor shares thoughts on her one-woman show - #lakewoodnews

The Edge Theatre's second summer show introduces audiences to Sue Mengers, a Hollywood agent who worked with talent like Barbara Streisand, Steve McQueen, Cher and Burt Reynolds.

And does she have stories to tell.

Henry Award winner Emma Messenger plays Mengers in the one-woman show, "I'll Eat You Last: A Chat with Sue Mengers," directed by Josh Hartwell.

This raucous character study allows Messenger to push her limits as a performer and bring the audience along. We spoke to Messenger about the role and challenges she faces:

Tell me about the show for people who aren't familiar with it?

"I'll Eat You Last" is a one-woman show about the Hollywood super-agent Sue Mengers. She was incredibly powerful in a male-dominated industry, where women were rarely able to wield any power, ascending to her strength in the '70s. Yet we meet her just as she has begun to lose that power. She has fallen off the cliff and has not quite realized that she's no longer on terra firma.

So it's not just a movieland gossip fest, it's also a story of aging past your prime, of no longer keeping up in a world that has moved past you.

How did you approach the character of Sue Mengers?

I read every story and article I could find about her. I watched other actress' videos. And I listened over and over to the only available recording of her --; the Mike Wallace "60 Minutes" interview from 1975. She was so surprising, her voice so soft and feminine, even though she was saying outrageous things.

Then I put all that down and just focused on the John Logan text with the help of my brilliant director, Josh Hartwell. Josh really took me in a different direction than I would have gone on my own. She's such a flamboyant person. My instinct led me to this loud, over-the-top creation. Josh insisted on a more subtle and nuanced take and, hopefully, instilled a more interesting characterization.

What are the challenges of doing a one-woman show?

It can be very lonely. And you have to stay so focused, because if you blank on stage, there's no one to come to your rescue. It's also a challenge to play with the audience, because it's not like you have a scene partner you have grown to know and trust over a rehearsal period. You have no idea what kind of energy and reaction the audience will give you.

What's your favorite part about working on this production?

I love the stories. Sue was such a raconteur and John Logan's script is so witty and well crafted. It's a joy to act.

What would Sue tell people who are considering seeing the show?

She would say, "Buy a ... ticket and get your a-- in the seat!" She was rather salty to say the least.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Actor-shares-thoughts-on-her-one-woman-show,232460?branding=15

Raney helps homestead in Fort Garland

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

No-show jury unacceptable to Judge Swift

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Four officers receive lifesaver awards

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Belmar captures summer with Blues, Brews and Barbeques - #lakewoodnews

Belmar is looking to bring some of summer's best features into one place for an evening, and do some good while they're at it.

The shopping center is hosting its first Brews, Blues and Barbeques event on Saturday, July 30. The funds from the event all go to support Out of Sight, a nonprofit that raises awareness for the blind and visually impaired by supporting the community organizations that help to better their lives.

"Belmar is always looking for ways to get involved and bring new a valuable event to the Belmar community," wrote Vicki Dunbar, marketing coordinator at Belmar. "This fits the bill perfectly as it supports a local nonprofit and brings awareness to their mission, to help the community see blindness."

Since this is the first time Belmar is hosting the event, we spoke to Dunbar and Redmond Cole, founder of Out of Sight and is the producer of the event in Belmar, about what attendees need to know:

1. The details: Brews, Blues and Barbeques is from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 30, at The Plaza at Belmar, 433 S. Teller St. A ticket costs $30 and includes food, beverage and live music. For tickets and more information, visit www.brewsbluesbbqs.org.

2. The cause: After several years of work creating Out of Sight, Cole began searching for the kind of event that would get blind and visually impaired people out in the community.

"I wanted something that would really appeal to everyone of all ages," he said. "This is only our second time putting on the event. We thought it would be a good fit at Belmar because it's a fantastic location and a great place to spend some time."

3. The event: Blues, Brews and Barbeques will feature a live performance from blues band The Delta Sonics and beer from Mu Brewery, Joy Ride Brewing Co., Ratio Brewing Co., Launchpad Brewing Company, Caution Brewing Co. and Miller Coors. Attendees will also taste barbecue from local restaurants and chefs Los Chingones, Chef Chris O'Sulivan of Brother's BBQ, Texas Roadhouse Northfield, TStreet Roadhouse, Chef Brandon Froster of Project Angel Heart. There will also be a head-to-head competition with some of the grill chefs.

4. Can't-miss feature: "Attendees can't miss the chance to see the coolest truck display featuring lifted Trucks from the Velocity TV show The Lifted Life," Dunbar wrote.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Belmar-captures-summer-with-Blues-Brews-and-Barbeques,232247

Actor shares thoughts on her one-woman show - #lakewoodnews

The Edge Theatre's second summer show introduces audiences to Sue Mengers, a Hollywood agent who worked with talent like Barbara Streisand, Steve McQueen, Cher and Burt Reynolds.

And does she have stories to tell.

Henry Award winner Emma Messenger plays Mengers in the one-woman show, "I'll Eat You Last: A Chat with Sue Mengers," directed by Josh Hartwell.

This raucous character study allows Messenger to push her limits as a performer and bring the audience along. We spoke to Messenger about the role and challenges she faces:

Tell me about the show for people who aren't familiar with it?"I'll Eat You Last" is a one-woman show about the Hollywood super-agent Sue Mengers. She was incredibly powerful in a male-dominated industry, where women were rarely able to wield any power, ascending to her strength in the '70s. Yet we meet her just as she has begun to lose that power. She has fallen off the cliff and has not quite realized that she's no longer on terra firma.

So it's not just a movieland gossip fest, it's also a story of aging past your prime, of no longer keeping up in a world that has moved past you.

How did you approach the character of Sue Mengers?I read every story and article I could find about her. I watched other actress' videos. And I listened over and over to the only available recording of her -- the Mike Wallace "60 Minutes" interview from 1975. She was so surprising, her voice so soft and feminine, even though she was saying outrageous things.

Then I put all that down and just focused on the John Logan text with the help of my brilliant director, Josh Hartwell. Josh really took me in a different direction than I would have gone on my own. She's such a flamboyant person. My instinct led me to this loud, over-the-top creation. Josh insisted on a more subtle and nuanced take and, hopefully, instilled a more interesting characterization.

What are the challenges of doing a one-woman show?It can be very lonely. And you have to stay so focused, because if you blank on stage, there's no one to come to your rescue. It's also a challenge to play with the audience, because it's not like you have a scene partner you have grown to know and trust over a rehearsal period. You have no idea what kind of energy and reaction the audience will give you.

What's your favorite part about working on this production?I love the stories. Sue was such a raconteur and John Logan's script is so witty and well crafted. It's a joy to act.What would Sue tell people who are considering seeing the show?She would say, "Buy a ... ticket and get your a-- in the seat!" She was rather salty to say the least.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Actor-shares-thoughts-on-her-one-woman-show,232245

Hydration with a twist - #lakewoodnews

The concept of infused water is easy --; it's simply fruits, vegetables or herbs soaked in pure water.

The trend caught on in recent years. Supermarkets carry a multitude of brands, such as Hint Water --; 16 ounces of water with a splash of fruit. Whole Foods Market makes its own, which comes in plastic bottles filled with leafy greens and colorful fruits.

There are even water bottles and pitchers specifically designed for the fad with a center compartment for fruits and veggies.

For those that prefer flavored drinks to plain water, infused water is a healthy alternative packed with nutrients and some flavor.

Water, after all, medical experts say, is essential for good health.

It makes up 60 percent of a person's body weight, according to Mayo Clinic.

"Every system in your body depends on water," its website says, "For example, water flushes toxins out of vital organs, carries nutrients to your cells, and provides a moist environment for ear, nose and throat tissues."

Lack of water can result in dehydration, which can cause decreased energy, headaches and fatigue, health experts say.

The general rule of thumb is to drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.

For those who don't like drinking plain H2O, try a glass of infused water.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Hydration-with-a-twist,232243

Thornton, Lakewood pet store ordered to close - #lakewoodnews

The state of Colorado issued orders to close down operations at pet stores in Thornton and Lakewood after owners and one employee pleaded guilty over the past weeks to charges of animal cruelty.

Cease and desist orders were issued to Jurassic Pets in Thornton and Lakewood, and the stores' license applications have been denied, according to a July 11 news release from the Colorado Department of Agriculture.

Sanctions were levied after one owner was found guilty of animal cruelty and another pleaded guilty to the same charges.

Kenneth Kubic was convicted May 13 of 18 counts of cruelty to animals. Prosecutors said he neglected kittens, hedgehogs, reptiles and rodents in his store, Jurassic Pets, causing some animals to die.

Lynn Kubic on June 15 pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges.

"The Cease and Desist Orders require Jurassic Pets ... to stop all business activity and advertisements at each facility," read the news release. "It has until (Aug. 5) to finalize business plans related to the company and animals."

Lynn and Kenneth Kubic are awaiting sentencing.

Brian Kubic, whose relation is unknown, pleaded guilty earlier this year to one misdemeanor count of animal cruelty. He was sentenced in late June to serve one year of probation and was ordered to have no contact with animals.

As a condition of probation, Adams County Judge Brian Bowen ordered Brian Kubic not to work with animals unless he first receives training or education.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Thornton-Lakewood-pet-store-ordered-to-close,232242

Mopar revs up the fun - #lakewoodnews

The annual Mopar Big Block Party rolled through Golden this year on July 21. Hundreds of people gathered on Washington Avenue as a kickoff to the 37th annual Mopar Mile-High National Hot Rod Association Nationals, which took place July 22-24 at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://goldentranscript.net/stories/Mopar-revs-up-the-fun,231999?branding=15

Cornering the market - #lakewoodnews

Rising above the rumble and grumble of construction in the Lamar Station Plaza, a different sound emerged on July 21: the sound of friendly voices and bluegrass music.

The smell of hot cement and dirt was replaced by the scent of baked goods, roasted chilies and fresh pierogies.

And so, before Lakewood Mayor Adam Paul and other city leaders officially christened it, the 40 West Farmers' Market opened for the season.

"This market is something I put together with the help of the new 40 West Farmers Market Advisory Committee," explained Gene Kalesti, the creator of the market. "The plan was to create something generational for the community."

The plan for the market is to start small --; it will be at Lamar Station Plaza, 6759 W. Colfax Ave., from 4:30-8:30 p.m., and for the grand opening there were just six vendors. But the number grew to 13 on the 28th, and aims to be 20 for the following week.

"This is just kind of a soft opening," said Kevin Yoshida, a West Colfax leader, who showed up early to peruse the new market. "We're going to be getting more vendors and people in as we go."

Kalesti has been an executive chef for 34 years, and knows what he's talking about when he comes to food. So while he's aiming to do holiday markets that focus on artisans and arts creations, the focus of this new market is simple --; the best eats around.

Miller Farms and Eat A Peach Farms are among the smaller sized growers Kalesti hopes to highlight at the market.

"There are so many great miniature farmers in Jefferson County that people don't know," he said. "We want to bring them in so people can taste their food."

Food vendors like The Bread Box, Lazlo Empanadas and Gene's Pure Colorado were also on hand so people could snack as they wandered.

"Isn't this cute?" exclaimed one attendee to another as they first entered the market. That's just the reaction Kalesti is hoping for, and what he wants to build on.

"If you want to build something generational, you need everyone involved," he said. "It's really been a pleasure getting to know everyone here in Lakewood."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Cornering-the-market,232000

Setting up shop in Lakewood Some national franchises have their eye on city - #lakewoodnews

For many people like Morrison resident Ashley Watson, owning their own business is part of the American Dream.

"I always wanted to have a business I could call my own," Watson said. "I looked into the salon business because that's something I've had an interesting for a while."

But starting a business is expensive, and often requires a business background and knowledge of city operations to get established.

That's where franchises come in.

"Franchises are a great way for folks to get involved in business," said Robert Smith, Lakewood's economic development manager. "It's not just taking a shot on their own --; they have some backing behind them."

Lakewood strives to be business friendly, and franchisees are noticing.

Watson just opened a Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids at 7660 W. Virginia Ave., Suite B, in the Lakewood City Commons.

Toppers Pizza, a new pizza chain looking to finally come to Colorado, also has an eye on Lakewood.

"The market is still controlled by these pizza giants, but we're looking to create something that's distinctive and individualistic," said Mark P. Cairns, director of franchise development with Toppers. "Colorado is one of the top tier markets we're looking to develop in, and Lakewood has a lot of the demographics we're looking for."

The licensing process for a new business is the same in Lakewood, whether it's a franchise or an original business, Smith said. What being a franchisee does, he added, is lend some credibility to a project.

"There is some kind of corporate backing behind the franchisee, which is reassuring for us and location owners to see," he said. "I really enjoy working with franchises because they usually understand what it takes to make a business tick."

What draws many franchises to Lakewood is the same as residents - location.

"We do really well with millennials, and Lakewood is home to a growing number of young people," Cairns said. "Lakewood is on track to grow, and that will keep bringing customers in."

New families are a particular draw for Watson and her business, since it's focused on children.

"I knew there is a demand for family-centered businesses in Lakewood, and they want options when it comes to services like haircuts," she said. "The city was great to work with, and all the businesses around us have been so welcoming."

The fact that national chains are looking at Lakewood is a boon for the city, Smith said.

"It's great working with franchises because the franchisees often live right here in the community," he said. "All this interest is a sign we're doing things right here."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Setting-up-shop-in-Lakewood-Some-national-franchises-have-their-eye-on-city,231990

Jet dragsters run at Mile High Nationals - #lakewoodnews

Not all the July 22 events at the Mile High Nationals were time trials: John Bandimere III was at the wheel of one car so that fans could watch the side-by-side flame-breathing jet dragster roar down the quarter-mile trackThe two jet dragsters capped the evening's racing, which included sportsman classes and featured time trials for the 10,000-horsepower top-fuel dragsters and top-fuel funny cars battling for spots to race for the Mile High Nationals championships July 24 at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison."We ran the jet dragsters as a little something extra for our fans here at the Mile High Nationals," said Bandimere, also the speedway's general manager. "It is just our way to thank the fans for coming out."Drag racing is in the blood of the Lakewood resident.His grandfather established the drag strip in 1958. His dad, John Bandimere Jr., took over and, under his leadership, brought the Mile High Nationals to Colorado, the only National Hot Rod Association stop on the national tour."I had done some drag racing in other cars and loved it," Bandimere III said. "Then I expressed an interest in driving jet dragsters. So, a couple jet car drivers helped me get my license ..."He has been driving a jet dragster for Tony Franco of Oxnard, California, for three years."I do two or three events here at our track and I also make a few trips to other tracks," he said. "Overall, I guess I drive at eight or nine events during the year."He smiled, saying it is a different feel to step on the accelerator knowing you have all that power pushing the car down the track.Most jet dragsters are powered by J-85 engines, the same engines used in the Talon fighter plane. The two-stage turbine jet engines produce about 9,000 pounds of thrust, pressing the driver back into the seat with a force about 4.5 times the force of gravity."We don't fly off the starting line but we do accelerate quickly," Bandimere III said. "We cover the first 60 feet on the track in about .9 seconds. That is about the 60-foot time of a pro stock car. These jet dragsters go from a standing start to traveling 280 to 300 miles an hour when they cross the finish line a quarter mile away."Driving a jet dragster is always exciting, Bandimere III said, and it was exciting when he hit speeds of 303 miles an hour during an event at Bakersfield, California.Jet dragsters put on a special show for the fans.Usually drivers prepare to make the side-by-side run by pulling to the staging and firing up their engines. The engine of each car sends out a huge plume of white smoke from the tail pipe. Cars pull up to the starting line, drivers rev up the engines and light off the afterburner, so when the green light comes on the car rockets down the track with flames shooting out of the tailpipe."When you watch a pair of jet dragsters make a run you can only imagine what it is like to be at the wheel," Bandimere III said. "I have been driving the jet dragsters for three years, love it and I always look forward to the next time I get into the cockpit to go racing."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Jet-dragsters-run-at-Mile-High-Nationals,231987?branding=15

Additional seven schools test for lead - #lakewoodnews

Testing of all 158 of Jefferson County School District's school facilities continued last week, revealing seven new schools with some form of elevated lead in the water.

The newly detected locations brings the total number of schools with lead issues up to 30, out of the 40 schools with test results reported so far.

Arvada K-8, the first school including the middle school grades to have test results come back, found eight water sources with lead above the 15 parts per billion level established by the EPA as the level over which water providers must work to improve water quality. Four classroom sinks, a drinking fountain in the cafeteria, and three non-classroom sinks tested high. One of the district's highest lead readings was from a workroom sink, reading 1,760.8 ppb.

Other high readings were found at elementary schools, including Hackberry with three sites, Molholm with three, and Vivian with seven.

At Vivian Elementary, the high test results came from three classroom sinks, two classroom sink drinking fountain bubblers, and a double sink in an art room.

One Lakewood school, Glennon Elementary, was found to have acceptable water quality, the district's 10th school to be cleared.

The school district chose to begin comprehensive lead testing in April, after a Head Start preschool facility in Arvada, owned by the district, tested high for the metal. The district began testing the oldest facilities first, those built long before the EPA raised lead standards in 1986 on how much of the heavy metal could safely be in the water supply.

Work began last week at Arvada's Peck Elementary to try and reduce lead levels by replacing faucet fixtures, and feed lines with newer, virtually lead-free plumbing parts. Assuming those changes fix the water quality problem, the district hopes to change out those parts at all affected schools before classes begin in the fall.

The district says faucets that have not been replaced and retested have been marked unusable, and will not be used until repaired.

Jeffco schools estimates Initial testing of all the school facilities will cost $75,000.

The district's complete test results can be found at www.jeffcopublicschools.org.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Additional-seven-schools-test-for-lead,231988

Monte police chief resigns

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Deer incident prompts warning to residents

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

City approves Caton's expansion in Alamosa

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

New syringe exchange program comes to Jeffco - #lakewoodnews

In response to increasing numbers of opioid use and overdose deaths among residents, Jefferson County Public Health has opened the state's eighth syringe exchange program, which provides participants with sterile needles and a place to safely dispose of used ones.

Called Points West, and housed in the Jefferson County Public Health building, the five-month-old program has 27 participants, a number expected to grow as word gets out and the health department begins to promote the program, said Nancy Braden, the health department's communications manager.

"We know there's a need, we know they're effective," Braden said of syringe exchange programs. But "it's not enough to have all of these studies showing they're effective. We actually need to start the programs."

To evaluate the need in Jefferson County, Jeffco health department representatives talked with community partners and other institutions that have contact with intravenous drug users, such as law enforcement, healthcare providers and other organizations that offer syringe exchange programs.

"We could see, from their participant data, that a lot of Jefferson County residents were going to Denver to get services," said Kelly Conroy, Jeffco health department's nurse manager of clinical services. "We established that yes, there is a need here."

Focus of syringe exchange programs

Syringe exchange programs are not new concepts, said public health nurse Erin Blau, also the HIV coordinator with the Jeffco health department.

Boulder was one of the first in the country to establish a syringe exchange in the late 1980s, Blau said. The other registered programs in Colorado are in Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, Georgetown, Grand Junction and Denver, which has two.

When asked about the cost of the program, Braden said Points West utilizes existing staff to operate the program, and the state health department helped offset costs of supplies.

Overall, there are 228 syringe service programs in 35 U.S. states, the District of Colombia, Puerto Rico and the Indian Nations, according to the North American Syringe Exchange Network.

Studies have shown syringe exchange programs effectively save lives, Braden said. A federal government statement in 1998, she noted, stated the programs do so without losing ground in the battle against illegal drugs.

In general, the program focuses on what is called harm reduction, Blau said. In other words, increasing access to clean and sterile injection supplies reduces the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C --; bloodborne pathogens --; and overdose risk among people who inject drugs.

People who use the program also have access to education materials and resources to other vital healthcare services, Blau said.

Program administrators are aware that syringe exchange programs may lower the perception of the risks involved with injection drug use, said Catherine Hoich, manager of adult outpatient/co-occurring services at the Jefferson Center for Mental Health. However, often the programs offer referrals for mental health care and/or substance use treatment.

Keeping used syringes off the streets

A key benefit to the Points West program, and others like it, is that it provides a safe disposal place for used needles, Conroy said.

Steve Davis, public information officer for the Lakewood Police Department, agreed.

Finding discarded needles in public places and officers being exposed to potential needle stick injuries if a person is subjected to a pat down are nothing new to law enforcement agencies, he said.

Other agencies, locally and across the country, Davis said, have provided the department with data proving that programs such as Points West are successful.

"There's no reason to think it wouldn't benefit our area also," Davis said.

The alternative, he added, is to have discarded needles on the streets. A drug user might put his or her health at higher risk from finding and using a contaminated needle. Non-users and children risk injury and infection from contaminated needles.

A successful syringe exchange program will help keep discarded needles off the streets, he said.

Davis hopes Points West will incentivize people to turn in all used syringes to a central location.

"If they're that much of a health risk," he said, law enforcement wants "to do what we can to get them centrally disposed of."

Getting the word out

Connecting the program to those who need it is a key concern for organizers.

"Our hope is to continue to serve (all) people who inject drugs in the county," Braden said.

In general, hours of operation or difficulty finding transportation to a syringe exchange location, can be a problem for participants of such a program, Conroy said.

And, Blau added, awareness that such the programs exist, "is a really big barrier as well."

The health department is still in the beginning stages of promoting the Points West program, so its success rate is hard to define at this point, Blau said. She noted the number of people using the program does not accurately reflect all the people it could benefit.

But new clients come in every month, she said. And "we have gotten a lot of feedback that it is really helpful."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/New-syringe-exchange-program-comes-to-Jeffco,231972

A few seconds of speed - #lakewoodnews

Cliff Neff and his crew grimaced when they were told July 22 that Neff wouldn't run time trials until late in the evening because of rain delays and a shift in scheduling.

Neff, owner of I-70 and Harlan Towing Co. in Arvada, said the car was tuned, ready to go at the scheduled time early in the afternoon and so was he., said the car was tuned and ready to go at the scheduled time early in the afternoon --; and so was he.

"We want to get out there on the track to see how the car is running in these weather conditions and see if we need to make adjustments so we will run faster," said Neff, who would finish runner-up in the Sportsman Competition Eliminator Class. "We feel the car should run well and I am eager to get the chance to drive her down the strip."

While Neff was able to get past time trials, qualifying eighth, he couldn't best Lou Ficco of Wheat Ridge in the finals, losing by nearly a full second at the Mopar Mile High Nationals July 24 at Bandimere Speedway.

But before that, waiting for the call to the starting line July 22, he took time to talk about his drag racing career and how he got into the sport.

"My father started drag racing in the 1960s and I guess I picked up the bug," he said with a smile. "It has become even more of a family affair now that my 12-year-old daughter is competing in junior dragsters."

Neff races in the National Hot Rod Association's competition eliminator class just as his dad did years ago.

"The competition eliminator class is huge and included a wide variety of vehicles," Neff said. "NHRA has what is called an indexing system to make competition as fair as possible, as our class included 96 divisions for entries for vehicles, ranging from dragsters to motorcycles."

Examples of some of the competition eliminator class divisions include the 13 divisions alone for gas dragsters, the several divisions for street roadsters and two divisions for pro-modified entries.

Neff said NHRA developed its index system so different vehicles can compete against each other.

The index comes into play when the cars pull up and prepare to launch off the starting line. Based on the difference in index, the slower car gets to go first and the faster car leaves later.

For example, if the faster car index is 7.5 seconds and the slower car index is 7 seconds, the slower car leaves a half-second ahead of the faster car. Once both cars are moving, it is a head-to-head race with the win going to the first car across the finish line.

Neff's current car is a '32 Bantam built in Kansas. His car is powered by a four-cylinder, 250-cubic-inch engine that has been modified to produce about 650 horsepower.

"The car is pretty quick," Neff said. "Here on the mountain at Bandimere, I have run the quarter mile in 8.08 seconds at a speed of 165 miles an hour. At sea level, we run about 7.5 seconds at about 175 or 180 miles an hour."

Neff said he loves the sport and travels to as many races around the country as possible. However, the Mile High Nationals marks only the third race this year for the Westminster resident.

"I have cut back on my travel so I can be with my daughter at every one of her junior dragster events, because I wouldn't miss being at one of her events for the world," Neff said. "But the junior dragster season ends soon, so I plan to do more traveling to races out of state later this summer."

Neff is an independent racer, which means he has no major sponsors.

"Some super comp teams get help from sponsors to cover the cost of travel and racing," he said. "I love drag racing but I'll tell you it is an expensive hobby. While I do get a little help with costs from some of the parts suppliers, basically I cover all the costs with my own dime.

"As I said, I love the sport and I will continue to race and compete as long as I am able to get behind the wheel."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/A-few-seconds-of-speed,231973

Education rivals crafting state education plan - #lakewoodnews

A who's who of Colorado's education community --; including two Jeffco parents and a Lakewood legislator --; will help shape the state's new federally required education plan.

The 17-member committee will be responsible for finding consensus while sifting through wide-ranging opinions about how Colorado should run its schools under the new Every Student Succeeds Act, which is supposed to give states more freedom to chart their own courses.

Among the topics the committee and its various subcommittees must address: standards, testing and teacher quality.

While it's still unclear how much leeway the state will get --; Colorado officials have called proposed regulations a federal overreach --; the process allows the state to stay the course on a number of reforms, start over or strike some balance.

Any plan must win approval from the Colorado Department of Education, the State Board of Education, the governor's office and a panel of educators and parents who will weigh its viability. The U.S. Department of Education will give feedback during the process, then must give final approval.

The committee includes State Board of Education chairman Steve Durham, a Colorado Springs Republican, and vice chairwoman Angelika Schroeder, a Boulder Democrat. Joining them are Republican State Rep. Jim Wilson of Salida and Democratic State Rep. Brittany Pettersen of Lakewood, both members of the House Education Committee.

Here are the 13 other members:

Evy Valencia, governor's office Ken Delay, Colorado Association of School Boards Lisa Escarcega, Colorado Association of School Executives Linda Barker, Colorado Education Association Don Anderson, Colorado BOCES Association Diane Duffy, Colorado Department of Higher Education Jesus Escarcega, Colorado ESEA Committee of Practitioners Jim Earley, Jefferson County parent Ross Izard, Independence Institute Luke Ragland, Colorado Succeeds Jeani Frickey, Stand for Children Kirk Banghart, Moffat School District, Colorado Rural Alliance Dan Schaller, Colorado League of Charter Schools

State education department officials took the lead in choosing committee members. State Board of Education members were asked to nominate potential members, Schroeder said.

One of the goals, Durham said, was to capture diverse viewpoints.

Well, look no further than Early and Izard.

Both were heavily involved in the 2015 Jefferson County school board recall, from opposite sides. The recall campaign became a proxy for a larger debate about education policies such as merit pay for teachers and school choice.

Early supported the recall. Izard did not.

So how might the former foes find common ground?

"We're gonna have to wait and see," Early said. "I think that's the best way to go about this. I can't go into this with the presumption that Ross is going to be steadfast in one way, or that I'm going to be steadfast one way. ... I think the big thing is, 'Let's go into this with an open mind.'"

"Any productive policy discussion is going to involve disagreement," Izard said in an email. "I welcome other points of view and the healthy debate they bring. Hopefully we can tackle the tough issues ahead with grace, honesty, and civility, even if we strongly disagree with each other on some points--;and we almost certainly will."

The committee's first meeting is scheduled for Aug. 8.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Education-rivals-crafting-state-education-plan,231971

Spellcheck and facts as prerequisites to hate - #lakewoodnews

Online comments sections, such as those of The New York Times, have an irresistible pull on me ... to read, that is.

I've never joined in on an online discussion, although I certainly have very strong opinions about what's being said. I do come across some thoughtful and well-considered comments, but many - if not most - of these online posts are spiked with hate, arrogance and ignorance, often expressed in bad grammar and poor spelling.

Not that such errors don't appear in even the articles themselves, of course, as casualties of the instantaneous breaking-story format of internet news. For the online commenters, though, I think some of them are just in a major hurry to launch their points of view into the world of cyberspace. Internet trolls aside (those who post inflammatory statements just to get others riled up), online commenters hurl vehement posts back and forth at each other, often spewing vitriol that is "beyond the pale," as one person commented in a discussion around a Times article about the Republican National Convention in Cleveland last week. He went on to say, "Hate speech need not be true for its consequences to be real."

That statement struck me. I mentioned that I haven't jumped into the fray ... yet. But when I see blatant falsehoods - whether the author knew they were lies or not - my fingers twitch on the keyboard. To clarify, I'm talking about facts here, not people's opinions, which clearly we are all entitled to, but the gibberish that these people put forth as truth.

Part of my character - for good or ill - is an overwhelming need for things to be right. Maybe it's my Libra-driven balanced-scales-of-justice requirement. In any case, I have a barely containable urge to set everyone straight about what they're saying.

My first thought is: Don't these people know? Don't they know that what they are hearing or reading is false? Don't they know that what they are parroting back is false?

My answer to my own question is simply "maybe not." Politics are fascinating to me, and, as an admitted information junkie, I'm devouring as much as I can during this election season. So I really don't (really) expect others to bombard themselves at this level.

And yet, and yet ... the comment I referenced earlier - "Hate speech need not be true for its consequences to be real" - made so much sense to me that I'm actually considering wading into the murky waters of internet discussions.

What would I say? Certainly, I would contribute facts, and references for these facts, to the conversation. I have a myriad of these bookmarked on my computer. But I would also say something like, "If you have to hate - and make sure that everyone else knows you hate - then hate something that's actually real. Not falsehoods created expressly to be shared. Not misleading statements engineered to deceive. And especially not outright lies that could so easily be exposed.

Seek the facts, consider the facts, and, if you must, then hate those facts. Take a stand, sure. Make your voice heard - without shouting. Share your passionate views with civility.

And please use spellcheck.

Andrea Doray is a writer who sometimes gets her own words mixed up, too. Contact her at a.doray@andreadoray.com.

 

 

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Spellcheck-and-facts-as-prerequisites-to-hate,231477

Politics has turned world upside down - #lakewoodnews

You have got to be kidding, right?

In the weeks that should be highlighting their qualifications to be president, we have a convention in Cleveland that highlights how unprofessional Trump's bid is and a convention in Philadelphia that highlights how corrupt Hillary's bid is.

And the world laughs at circus clowns.

Of course, with Hillary, the surprise is how blatant it was, and that her camp wasn't able to kill the story before it broke. Had the perfect storm of demographics and discontent that fueled Barack Obama's insurgency campaign in 2008 welled up again this year, maybe Bernie might have had a chance. But the "inevitability" of Hillary pushed out of the process anybody else who may have credibly challenged her, so this sort of thing never saw the light of day when something could have been done about it.

The Republican side is a little harder to sort. First of all, it started with more candidates than pitchers who have lost a game for the Rockies this year, and most of them were creatures of Washington (which, strangely, is an even worse affiliation than "Rockies bullpen"). But that only partially explains Trump - the rest is, well...

Consider this:  

On Sept. 12, 2001, the U.S. flag was everywhere - houses, trucks, bridges, inappropriate pieces of clothing - everywhere! Now, not even 15 years later, people are being ordered to remove them from in front of their houses, students wearing flag clothing have been suspended, and many flags are at the bottoms of bonfires these two weeks. 

In 1996, a Democrat President Clinton signed into law the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), and it was a major controversy just four years later when Vermont created a statutory provision for civil unions. These days? Not only is gay marriage the law of the land but, a scant 20 years after DOMA, unwilling people are being ordered to participate.

In 2005, one of the more contentious and intractable political debates was about illegal immigration. Today ... OK, never mind, bad example.

In 2001, we felt like we had a grasp of who the enemy was, and we called it as we saw it ... sort of (until we got distracted-but I digress). Now, barely 15 years later, we're all so afraid to offend that many refuse to even call the enemy by the terms it uses to describe itself.

I list those and I highlight the timeframe that we're talking about to point out the pace of change in our culture over the past two decades, which is independent of political leaning. Agree on the issues or not, the world has undeniably changed in 20 years. I know, to some brought up in the world of the smartphone, 20 years seems like an eternity. But to many who have seen a few 20s in their lives, the speed at which the world is changing is dizzying. 

And I use the word "dizzying" advisedly. For some, their sense of what this country is has been completely unhinged and, like the carnival ride that suddenly rotates in a third plane, up becomes down and the world starts spinning. For Democrats, who generally like those changes, Hillary, in spite of her weakness, is a known quantity who has been in the carnival for so long they trust her. And Trump is the carnival barker who some in the GOP are hoping can rein in all the chaos. Whether Trump can, or even wants to, is an open question, but nobody in the bullpen was ever going to be the solution.

So, we, the people, like the parent who gets stuck on too many spinny rides with his child, are left sick to our stomach, wondering what happened, and how did THAT get in my system.

Michael Alcorn is a teacher and writer who lives in Arvada with his wife and three children. His novels are available at MichaelJAlcorn.com.

 

 

 

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Politics-has-turned-world-upside-down,231476

The story of Lakewood in one neighborhood - #lakewoodnews

As Paul Ditson, president of the Eiber Neighborhood Association, walks up and down the streets of the area, streets he's known since 1964, he can point to almost any house and identify the decade it was built.

"This subdivision was mostly built in the 1950s and 60s," he said, walking near his home on Garrison Street. "This was a big agricultural area, and many of the homes started as apple orchard sheds and chicken coops that received additions."

The history of Lakewood can be traced throughout the 100-year-old neighborhood, and the residents are working with Lakewood to preserve that history.

The city received a $33,885 grant from the History Colorado State Historical Fund to conduct a comprehensive survey of the neighborhood and document buildings constructed before 1946. Some of these homes might be eligible for national, state or local historic designations.

"Part of our responsibility is to survey the city and tell Lakewood's story," said Holly Boehm, principal planner with the city. "There's a lot of development pressure on the area, so we want to make sure we document the history before it's gone."

The Eiber Neighborhood (or Eiberhood as it is affectionately called by residents) is the area between Wadsworth Boulevard on the east, Colfax Boulevard to the north, Oak Street on the west and 6th Avenue on the south. The neighborhood was once mainly farmland and orchards used to help feed the growing city of Denver, but started to see more development as the Denver Ordinance Plant (which is now the Federal Center) brought employees in.

According to Ditson's research, the area saw a spike in single-family housing in the late 40s through 60s, and multifamily homes started appearing in greater numbers in the late 60s and 70s. Despite the development, the neighborhood clings to its history --; there are around six homes from the 1890s still around, and more than 300 structures built before 1946 also remain.

Ditson lives in the Eiber house he was raised in, and has seen the changes and growth of the area over the decades.

"We started our neighborhood association in response to development of the W Line," he said. "We continued to be engaged, and work to ensure there is sensitive development in the area."

The W Line light rail now runs through the northern part of the neighborhood, and Ditson said the association played an important role in ensuring the line's impact was minimal. Since the neighborhood is essentially built out, the only option for growth is high density redevelopment.

"We're keeping a close eye on any proposals for development," Ditson said. "We have an eclectic mix of housing options, and we want to make sure any new homes fit into our character."

This grant is the second Lakewood has received for historic preservation, and Jeanne Ramsay, chair of Lakewood's Historic Preservation Commission, said Eiber's history was well-known among commissioners. A consultant firm will be hired to conduct the survey and provide its findings to the city and residents.

"Eiber is going to be one of our first big projects," she said. "It will be great to have this information and research for other historians and students to use."

As much as he already knows about his surroundings, Ditson hopes the survey will unearth new details and history of Eiber.

"We'll definitely be using the information in an education campaign for developers, to let them know the kind of thing we'd like to see in the are," he said. "We'd like to use the information to maybe start a kind of walking tour, or find another way to share the history."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/The-story-of-Lakewood-in-one-neighborhood,231469

ASU, Ledonne resolve lawsuit

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

UAS operations might begin in October in SLV

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Sigmond to replace Dunne on ballot

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Melancon an All-Star once again - #lakewoodnews

WASHINGTON - Mark Melancon is coming off his third Major League Baseball All-Star game, in which he has pitched in two of them.

But the Golden High School graduate is more than just a right-handed closer for the Pittsburgh Pirates, a team he has played with since 2013.

"He is just at outstanding man on and off the field," said Neal Huntington, the general manager of the Pirates. "A leader in our clubhouse by example and his words. He is incredible example with his routine and diligence. He is a spectacular example for young pitchers."

Melancon, 31, a University of Arizona product, backs up his leadership skills with a consistent ability to close out games for the Pirates.

The right-hander recorded his 27th save of this season on July 8.

In his previous 23 games through July 17 he had 16 saves and did not allow an earned run. He finally gave up an earned run on July 17 when Washington Nationals all-star infielder Daniel Murphy hit a home run with two outs in the last of the ninth to tie the game at 1-1.

Melancon shook off catcher Erik Kratz before throwing a pitch that Murphy hit down the right-field line for the homer. The Pirates ended up winning 2-1 in 18 innings as Pittsburgh outfielder Starling Marte hit a solo homer in the top of the 18th off Oliver Perez of the Nationals.

Despite that blown save, Melancon was 0-1 with an impressive ERA of 1.43 in 41 games, with 27 saves in 29 chances. That gave him 148 saves in his big league career out of 169 chances.

Those numbers helped land him on the National League All-Star team for the game that was played July 12 in San Diego. He was also on the National League team for All-Star games in 2013 and 2015.

"They have all been great in their own right, of course," Melancon said, standing in the Pirates clubhouse during the recent series in Washington. "I said to someone else they should have the game every year in San Diego for so many reasons."

"The weather is always nice in San Diego and travelling west made a huge difference," he added. "When you get there you have a lot to do (as a player). Flying west you gain some of that time."

The day before the All-Star game the wife and children of Melancon went to Sea World in San Diego while the pitcher went to Petco Park to work out with his trainer.

"I got in a nice workout," he said.

Later that day his family joined him at the park for the annual Home Run Derby.

"My family got to come on the field. I took a lot of pictures with them," he said. "I got to enjoy that moment. That is probably the most special time, during the derby."

Melancon then pitched in the seventh inning of the All-Star game. He retired a batter with runners on base as second baseman Murphy, of Washington, made a nice play on a grounder.

"He is an All-Star so I expect it. He is a great player. I asked him afterwards if he looked to first base" before throwing the ball, Melancon said of Murphy.

The Pirates had a rough June before the All-Star break but played better in July.

"We obviously need to pitch better. When we pitch well we seem to win," he said. "Being consistent is always the key. We are kind of built to win by one or two runs. If we are consistent and do the things we are supposed to the results will come."

Melancon normally doesn't pitch unless the Pirates are leading by a run or two going into the ninth inning. If he doesn't pitch for two days in a row he will do "dry" work off the pitcher's mound the third day, in which he does everything but actually throw the ball.

"I have to stay fresh," Melancon said.

Melancon was drafted in the ninth round by the New York Yankees in 2006. After stints in Houston (2011) and Boston (2012) he was traded to the Pirates after the 2012 season.

For the month of July he was throwing to catchers Kratz and Eric Fryer, both who have been backups most of their careers while some of the top Pittsburgh catchers were on the disabled list.

"Both guys are hard-working guys who want to learn and want to get better," Melancon said of Kratz and Fryer. "They have a willingness to do what you want to do and be open minded. That has not been an issue."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://goldentranscript.net/stories/Melancon-an-All-Star-once-again,231088?branding=15

Editorial cartoon July 28 - #lakewoodnews

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Editorial-cartoon-July-28,231072

Alamosa County Commissioners Marianne Dunne dies

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

'I caught a Pikachu in her kitchen' - #lakewoodnews

Clark Wilson, 12, was at summer camp in Massachusetts earlier this month when the new app, Pok mon Go, was released for iPhone and Android.

"All the camp counselors were talking about it as soon as it came out," Wilson said.

Though the campers weren't allowed to play the game during camp, counselors started catching Pok mon immediately.

"The app was pretty big news," said Wilson, back home in Highlands Ranch and looking for Pok mon with his mom at Civic Green park last week. "I downloaded it after I got home."

The Pok mon franchise, once limited to trading cards and video games, is growing larger and larger since the release of Pok mon Go on July 6. Though the app is free to download, in-app purchases generated more than $14 million in just five days, according to SuperDataResearch.

The eagerly awaited app --; which uses augmented reality technology --; hit the top of U.S. sale charts 13 hours after its release, according to Boy Genius Report. Players use their cell phone cameras to view their surroundings. The game then adds Pok mon characters to the screen, making it seem as if they have appeared in real life.

"Research suggests the game is so popular because of the appeal of combining the virtual world with the real world," said Annie Butler, associate professor and department chair of human services at the Metropolitan State University of Denver. Butler specializes in addictive behavior as it relates to video games and technology.

"It sounds like a fun game, but there are two sides to every coin," Butler said. "Some people can use it and it's no big deal. But it becomes an addiction when people try to stop playing and can't, or let it interfere with their relationships."

Butler believes the game appeals to different demographics in different ways.

While kids enjoy the cartoon images and the gaming pieces of it, she said adults are more likely to enjoy the way they can use the app without experiencing the usual solitary aspects of gaming.

Christopher Cole, a Pok mon Go player and father of two, is one of many adults who have become avid Pok mon trainers this month. Cole typically plays the game with his two children and his wife, Karen.

"We go on walks around the neighborhood and make it an adventure," Cole said.

In the first 12 days since downloading the game, the Parker resident walked more than 55 miles.

"It motivates people to go to places they've never gone before and see parts of the city they've never seen before," he said.

Pok mon Go works with Google Maps to direct players to Pok stops, sites where they can catch different Pok mon based on their geographical location and the time of day. These places are usually located in neighborhoods, parks, stores or malls.

Brittany Rickson, 22, Matt Shircliff, 17, and Jill Zablonski, 26, often go to Parker's O'Brien Park to catch Pok mon.

"We usually come here together," said Zablonski, who was the first of the friends to download the game.

"Brittany downloaded the game a few hours after I did, when I told her I caught a Pikachu in her kitchen," she said.

"I play Pok mon Go too much --; I'm always on it," said Rickson. "I play a good four or five hours a day, at work and everything."

The three friends are just a fraction of the many people catching Pok mon in O'Brien.

"Even at 10 at night, the O'Brien parking lot is full," said Cole. "It's interesting to see all the people getting together and having fun, regardless of age and location."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/I-caught-a-Pikachu-in-her-kitchen,231044

About wildcats and life on the trail - #lakewoodnews

Do you know your Colorado wildcats?

It's all about the tail, said Alicia Vermilye, a nature educator with Open Space.

Bobcat tails are shorter and look "dipped in paint," whereas mountain lion tails are long and unmarked.

Mountain lions are "successful hunters," Vermilye said, "not only because of their tails and claws, but because they're camouflage. They blend in to their surroundings."

On July 14, Jefferson County Open Space volunteers set up an Education Station to teach Apex Park users about the wildcats of Jefferson County.

"We found out about a mountain lion sighting here," Vermilye said. "When we educate about mountain lions, it makes you a safer hiker."

The frequency of the Education Stations vary --; it just depends on the needs of the park, Vermilye said.

Helping set up the table for the wildcats was Erykalynn Draper-Miller.

"I like helping," the 10-year-old said. "So that's how this all started in the first place."

Draper-Miller was accompanied by her grandmother Millie Travis. The two of them attend a lot of Open Space programs together, Travis said, but it was their first time to visit Apex Park.

Open Space parks are definitely the place to be, Draper-Miller said. She likes to visit her grandmother, who lives in Indian Hills, and the Open Space programs are fun because as a resident of Denver, Draper-Miller likes to get away from the crowded city and the traffic.

And Travis likes bringing her granddaughter to the programs because she likes to see her have a good time.

"And I always learn something as well," Travis said.

Jeffco Open Space parks have a wide variety of wildlife, said volunteer Billie Erxleben.

"My purpose for being here is to help people not be prey," she said. "When people have knowledge on how to protect themselves, they'll know what the animal does and how to counteract."

The Apex Trail leads right to Open Space volunteer Heidi Burgess' house. So because it's her neighborhood trail, she keeps track of the happenings.

But, she said, "I am really crazy about Jefferson County in general."

And her goal is to hike all of the Open Space trails.

Sheila Martus of Lakewood stopped by the Education Station while visiting Apex Park to do some mountain biking. The Apex trail is one of her favorites.

But all of the Open Space parks are fun, she said.

"It's so close to town, yet so far from life," Martus said. "You can forget about things while you're out enjoying the trails."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://goldentranscript.net/stories/About-wildcats-and-life-on-the-trail,231046?branding=15

Freedom, safety steer helmet debate - #lakewoodnews

Brahm Bechtold rides a Harley-Davidson cruiser, a bike he says is made for taking it easy and enjoying the scenery.He and his wife and passenger, Dagmar, say new motorcyclists should wear helmets, but they feel safe without them because they take it slow."The wind's in your hair, you're having fun and just kind of putting along. It's nothing fast, no tight turns, it's a lot slower, just enjoying the scenery," said Bechtold, a Lone Tree resident who has been riding for 20 years. "I'm not looking to cut those corners or do that high acceleration."In Colorado, where adults are not legally required to wear a helmet, emotions over whether to do so are riding high on both sides as the number of motorcyclist deaths increases. Those who wear them cite safety, while riders who don't say it's a matter of personal freedom."You should definitely wear a helmet, but I don't," Bechtold said. "It's my personal choice."But the Bechtolds also know firsthand the risks of riding. Brahm Bechtold said a friend died about two years ago on her motorcycle when a car hit her from behind and she was thrown from the bike. He doesn't think she was wearing a helmet.Head injury is the leading cause of death for motorcyclists, and nearly two-thirds of the motorcyclists killed statewide in 2014 were not wearing a helmet, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.'Riskier to be on two wheels'Helmets are nearly 40 percent effective in preventing motorcycle-crash deaths, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. But they are not mandatory gear for adults in most of the country.State law specifies that only riders 17 and younger are required to wear helmets, making Colorado one of 28 states with an age-specific helmet requirement. All riders must wear helmets in 19 states and the District of Columbia. Only three states -- Illinois, Iowa and New Hampshire -- have no helmet requirements at all.Motorcycle accident fatalities in the state have increased sharply in the last three years. According to CDOT, an all-time high of 105 people died in motorcycle crashes in 2015, up 11.7 percent from 2014 and 20 percent higher than 2013. The 2015 data is preliminary and it's not entirely clear why fatalities are up, but it's likely that impaired driving, speeding and not wearing a helmet are factors, a CDOT spokesman said.To this point in 2016, there have been 58 motorcycle-crash deaths -- including at least three in the south metro area -- in Colorado, up 14 percent from this time in 2015, CDOT announced July 22. Of those killed, 34 were not wearing helmets.Russ Rader, spokesman for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, says helmets can make a difference in preventing many motorcycle-crash deaths."It's riskier to be on two wheels than on four," Rader said. "Wearing a helmet is the single most important thing a rider can do to reduce their risk of serious head injury or death in a crash. Helmets are very effective in preventing death."Chris Kozuch, of Castle Rock, agrees with Rader.Kozuch is a motorcycle patrolman and leads the accident reconstruction team for the Parker Police Department. He rides a motorcycle on the job and rode one for pleasure until the birth of his son last year. He says he has always worn a helmet, on duty or off."You're more vulnerable on a motorcycle than you are in a car, that's something that has to be taken into consideration," Kozuch said. "Being a motorcycle rider personally, I wear the helmet for safety because I have a family and I have to be as safe as I can."Kozuch added that faster, lighter performance bikes, also referred to as "sport bikes," accelerate quickly and have more sensitive steering, leading to situations that riders sometimes can't control."Motorcycles can do three things very well: they can accelerate very well, they can turn very well and they can brake very well, just not all three of them at once," he said. "A wild animal or even gravel in the roadway can cause that motorcycle to start acting in a way that you're not expecting. And if you're not ready for it, it can have very bad consequences."The most 'fragile part of the body'Tommy Van Swearingen rides a performance bike and says he likes the speed and responsive controls.He also likes his helmet."I've got a great physical therapist. He can fix everything I've got, except for one thing. If I hurt my head, he can't fix that. It's the most fragile part of the body," said Van Swearingen, a Littleton resident. "Having crashed a few times and seeing what it's done to my helmet, it just solidifies the belief that it's the most important part of my gear."Van Swearingen has been riding for 30 years and says all of his friends who ride also wear helmets. Van Swearingen works with parts manager Doug Vickery at a motorcycle shop in Aurora. Vickery asked that the name of the shop not be used because helmet use is such a personal issue he didn't want to offend any customers.Vickery is a Larkspur resident and retired professional American Motorcycle Association racer. He still rides a sport bike, but he's traded the racetrack for the road. He once crashed on a bike at 160 mph, in addition to being hit by cars on two separate occasions. He says he "always" wears a helmet, just as his parents and his son do."I feel naked without one," Vickery said. "Even if I had a cruiser bike, I'd wear a helmet ... Safety equipment is everything."But Vickery said, as important to him as helmets are, "if someone doesn't want to wear one, I support their freedom to choose."For Englewood biker Steve Hall, not wearing a helmet is all about "getting the full effect" of seeing and hearing everything around him as he rides."They're just uncomfortable," he said. "I just like the freedom. The wind in your hair ... A helmet is heavy, it's cumbersome and you're missing the full effect. You can't hear what's going on around you. Even with your mirrors and everything, it's not the same as just being able to turn your head and see what's there."Everyone's responsibilityBrahm Bechtold says other drivers are a more dangerous variable than whether or not he's wearing a helmet."You have to watch everyone around you," he said. "We do the speed limit and it's relatively safe, but there's always the problem of the people who are going to cut you off. You really have to watch how you ride because not everyone is concerned about motorcycles here in Colorado."Kozuch, the police officer, agrees about the importance of awareness: "I think at the end of the day it's the responsibility of everybody that's on the road, whether you're on the motorcycle or a bicycle or in a car, to watch the roadway for everybody that's around you."CDOT recently announced a safety campaign that will last through Labor Day. It is placing messages on social media, at gas stations and on radio stations asking motorists to "look twice for motorcycles."Hall has a Harley-Davidson cruiser and has been riding for more than 20 years. He wore helmets when he rode dirt bikes as a boy but says he's never worn a helmet on the road. He was in an accident several years ago and suffered a slew of broken bones, but the incident didn't change his mind on the subject of helmets. He hasn't been in any accidents since, and he credits his careful technique and awareness of other drivers for that.He respects the decision of others to wear a helmet, but it's not for him."You ride your way," he said. "I'll ride my way."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Freedom-safety-steer-helmet-debate,231041

Drivers share their Bandimere memories - #lakewoodnews

Top fuel dragster and top fuel funny car drivers hit the throttle, unleashing 10,000 horsepower last weekend during competition at the Mile High National Drag Races at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison.Each top fuel dragster and a top fuel funny car is powered by a powerful engine that sends the vehicle from a standing start to 100 mph in six-tenths of a second, and dragsters and funny cars are traveling about 300 mph as they roar through the timing lights at the end of the quarter-mile drag strip.All professional teams come to Bandimere once a year, but drivers like Tommy Johnson Jr. and Jack Beckman see the Mile High Nationals almost like homecomings.Johnson, who drives the Make-A-Wish top fuel funny car, said coming to the Mile High Nationals reminds him of how long he has been coming to the track."I think I came to Bandimere the first time in about 1981, bracket racing on a motorcycle," he said with a smile. "I did well then and kept doing well here, so I look forward to coming to Bandimere."He added that he knows a lot of people and knows the area because he lived in Littleton for several years."Coming to this altitude is a big challenge for all the teams but I love the area, I love the people and I really enjoy competing in the Mile High Nationals," he said. "Mopar is bringing back the Mopar top fuel dragster at this race. I drove the Mopar top fuel dragster in 1990."The blue and white funny car he now drives is part of the Don Schumacher Racing Team but is sponsored by Terry Chandler and dedicated to her support of Make-A-Wish Foundation."I love driving the Make-A-Wish car because we get to meet and talk to Make-A-Wish kids," Johnson said. "We are scheduled to host five Make-A-Wish children from the Denver metro area here at the track July 23," he said. "We will meet with them, sign autographs and have a little meal for them. It is a great experience for me and I hope it is a great experience for them."Beckman, driver of the Infinite Hero Top Fuel Funny Car, said he remembers coming to Bandimere as a spectator in 1984."I was in the Air Force and they sent me to school at Lowry Air Force Base," he said in the July 21 interview. "I always loved drag racing and came to the track to see them run. Of course, I came to the '84 Mile High Nationals. Even when I returned to my home base, I drove 500 miles the next three years to see the Mile High Nationals."He came to Bandimere as a competitor for the first time in 2006 in the sportsman class and has returned to the track every year since.Leah Pritchett, who will drive the Mopar/Pennzoil top fuel dragster, also raced at Bandimere years ago."I grew up in California, dad was a land speed racer and wanted his two girls to do something fun, so we drove junior dragsters," she said. "I came to Bandimere 10 years ago as an 18-year-old to race in the Junior Drag Racing Nationals. I did win a Team Junior Dragster Nationals Championship and received my first drag racing championship trophy, called a Wally. I want to receive my next Wally here on Sunday when I win the Mile High Nationals top fuel championship."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Drivers-share-their-Bandimere-memories,231031

The Force is with the father - #lakewoodnews

After their semifinal victories in the funny car semifinals, John Force gave his daughter Courtney a ride on the back of a motor scooter in front of the west grandstands at Bandimere Speedway in Morrison.John Force, 67, beat Del Worsham to advance to the finals for the 244th time in his career. Courtney, the 28-year-old No. 1 qualifier, notched a semifinal win over Robert Hight.So father raced against daughter in the funny car finals July 24 at the 37th annual Mopar Mile High Nationals, which was televised live nationally for the first time live on Fox.John Force caught Courtney at the finish line for his first victory of the season and a record-tying seventh in 10 finals rounds at the Morrison track.Other winners were Allen Johnson, who has been nicknamed the "King of the Mountain," in Pro Stock, Tony Schumacher in Top Fuel and Andrews Hines in Pro Stock Motorcycle.John Force had what he termed an anxiety attack before the finals and threw up but notched his first win to became the oldest driver to win a funny car race in NHRA history"I needed this win," said the 16-time world champion. "I had to get my kid out of my mind... I told Courtney I loved her, but I am giving this everything I've got."No. 1 Pro Stock qualifier Alex Laughlin was eliminated in the second round when he red lighted going against Vincent Nobile.Johnson made the Pro Stock Mile High Nationals finals for the 10th consecutive season, and he has now won a record seven times at Bandimere after beating Nobile, who had earned a second consecutive red light advancement against Jason Line in the semifinals.Johnson seems to have a magic touch on Thunder Mountain."The magic is just here for some reason," Johnson said. "I wouldn't have given us a 1 percent chance to win all weekend. We might have got a break or two along the way but I guess that was that mountain magic. It was great to do it on national TV on the Fox network."Schumacher hadn't won since July 2015 in Chicago but captured a Wally Trophy for the 82nd time in his 21-season career when he defeated defending world champion Andrew Brown, who smoked his tires in the Top Fuel finals."I've enjoyed great moments in racing during my career but coming back from a huge deficit when people have counted you out like we have done this weekend is most satisfying to me," said Schumacher.Hines, 33, set a track record time of 7.134 seconds at 188.3 mph in his finals win over teammate Eddie Krawlec. He became the Pro Stock Motorcycle winningest rider with 45 career wins."It doesn't get much better racing up here on the mountain with the different air that requires a different setup," said Hines who notched his third Bandimere win to go along with two runner-up finishes since he made his professional debut in 2002 at the Mile High Nationals.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/The-Force-is-with-the-father,231032

Del Norte man dies in Friday crash

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Sand Dunes hosts new citizens

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Ranch sale to add to dunes

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Dunne withdraws from county race

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Alamosa approves permit for group home

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Jeffco announces fire restrictions - #lakewoodnews

As of July 15, Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Shrader ordered a Stage 2 Temporary Fire Ban in an effort to prevent wildfires.

The ban applies to all lands in unincorporated Jefferson County west of Highway 93, west of C470, west and south of the intersection of Wadsworth Boulevard and C470, to the Platte River.

The ban prohibits the following activities:

Building, maintaining, attending or using any fire

Recreational fires, including recreational campfires

Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area of at least 6 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all combustible material

Open burning, including bonfires that require a permit from the fire authority having jurisdiction

All fireworks

Shooting tracer rounds or explosive type targets

Operating a chain saw without a USDA- or SAE-approved spark-arresting device properly installed and in proper working order, and having a extinguishing source, water, pressurized water extinguisher, or a proper chemical pressurized extinguisher large enough to handle nearby hazards, and possessing at least one large-size pointed shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches. All must be readily available for quick use.

Welding and cutting torch appliances, as described above, shall only be operated within an area that is barren or cleared of all combustible material at least 30 feet in all directions from the operating equipment. This operation may only be done during a declared "Fire Ban" upon receiving a permit from the Fire Authority that oversees that location.

Use of an explosive initiation system requiring a burning fuse line

Exemptions to the ban include:

Use of liquid- or gas-fueled appliances

Approved wood pellet grills

Open fires or open burning by any federal, state or local officer in the performance of official fire suppression functions

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Jeffco-announces-fire-restrictions,229688

My Name Is: Logan Watson - #lakewoodnews

About meI am 12 years old and grew up in Lakewood. In my free time I enjoy basketball, whether it is playing as a point guard or watching the NBA. I play for the Lakewood High School feeder team where later I hope to attend for high school.When I'm not on the basketball court trying to improve, I'm either outside playing with my neighbors or with my gigantic family. I have six siblings who keep me on my toes and always give me something to do. I love my family, and they support me in everything I do.

My poetryFrom memorizing the ABCs over and over to writing essays, I have always had a passion for writing. It wasn't until this year that I started to develop a love for poetry.My teacher, Mrs. Wacinski, helped me with strategies to improve that made my writing more detailed. Whenever I had free time in class I would express my feelings in poetry. Poetry took away my stress and helped me to relax. My writing journal shows each and every poem I have worked on to better my poetry.

The contestWhile writing for the contest, I noticed most of my peers were focusing on the attributes of how great America is. I knew if I were to have a shot at winning the contest, I would have to be unique.As a result, I expressed how America has improved. At home I have two moms who I love very much. Focusing on the growth of America allowed me to express how grateful I am to live here, where my two moms can be with each other. Being able to express my appreciation for the freedoms we have in the U.S. made winning that much more special.

My future goals

After developing a passion for poetry, I will definitely continue to write. Since I'm going to middle school this upcoming year, I hope to better my skills even more.Winning will just motivate me to practice and improve my poetry. With the winnings of the USA Pencils Contest I will use to save for college. I hope to attend Colorado State University, and these winnings will help me get there. I'm extremely excited that I won, and I can't wait to keep working!

If you have suggestions for My Name Is ..., contact Clarke Reader at creader@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/My-Name-Is-Logan-Watson,229687

Locals 'Back the Blue' at Wednesday rally

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Water group has 'monumental' concerns

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

Belmar's new senior facility taking shape - #lakewoodnews

From the massive dirt mounds to the concrete foundation to the skeletons of structure, the Village at Belmar senior living facility is rising out of the the once vacant nine-acre site across from Belmar and Lakewood City Commons.

And it's drawing attention.

"Because it's a you-can't-miss-it construction project near one of the metro area's busiest intersections, we get calls and emails about the project on an almost daily basis," Nanette Neelan, Lakewood's economic development director and deputy city manager, wrote in an email interview. "Of course, the three-story building on Alameda attracts a lot of peoples' attention."

Village at Belmar is a premium senior living, 156 residential-unit project with 60 independent living and 96 memory care and assisted living units. The independent living flats will be in units separate from the memory care to increase the feeling of individuality for residents.

According to information provided by Stacie Oulton, Lakewood's public information officer, Lakewood is one of the oldest cities in the region covered by the Denver Regional Council of Governments. The senior population is expected to increase by 78 percent by 2025, according to the Community Assessment Survey of Older Adults in 2015 performed for DRCOG.So, by 2025, seniors will make up 31 percent of Lakewood's population.

"Having a range of housing options for older adults is extremely important because this segment of our population is going to grow significantly in the coming years," said Dawn Sluder, Lakewood's older adult and transportation supervisor. "Many older adults won't be able to maintain their single-family homes, and they will need places that are close to stores, doctors, transportation and other services they need. That kind of housing will help older adults live independently."

The developer of the Village at Belmar is Ascent Living Communities, based in Colorado.

"We were returning from a project in Steamboat Springs, drove by that site and saw that it was for sale," said Thomas Finley, a founder and principal of Ascent Living. "We couldn't ask for a better location, and love the Belmar area and Lakewood market."

In particular, Ascent Living was looking for a large site near a lot of activity and development, which make Belmar and City Commons the perfect fit.

"Ultimately, it's about quality of life for our residents," said Phillip Shapiro, one of Ascent Living's founders and principals. "In addition to everything residents will have access to within walking distance, there are so many features we're integrating into our facility designs."

One reason Ascent wanted to build near a high-activity area is because of the adult children of many seniors and retirees. By putting their facility in the kind of place younger people are more likely to visit, it becomes easier to involve younger people in their parents' lives, Shapiro explained.

Ascent is implementing a new care philosophy at Village at Belmar called Meaningful Connections, which promotes the wellness of all residents through "deep connections" between associates and residents, and residents and each other.

"We're still developing exactly what the program will entail and can be for our residents," said Susie Reimer, founder and executive vice president of Ascent Living. "We're looking at everything that falls under wellness --; from outdoor activity and recreation to culinary areas."

The facility wants to be a place at which students and local organizations can volunteer. Shapiro said the Village has a partnership with the University of Colorado at Denver that will allow students to intern at the facility and residents to participate in the school's classes.

The project is scheduled to be completed in February and is already hosting events for potential residents.

"This is going to be like the Caesar's Palace of retirement communities," said Hope Thomas, community relations coordinator with the Village. "I always think about whether or not I would want to bring my own parents to a place, and I definitely would here."

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Belmars-new-senior-facility-taking-shape,229391

Rivers now at below average flows

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

SLV airport board accepts Alcon bid

from Valley Courier - News http://www.alamosanews.com/V2_news_articles.php

In praise of earning that 'Eureka!' moment - #lakewoodnews

I once read a quote from Steven King where he said "I can't wait to sit down at my typewriter each day, so I can find out what happens."

I love that--;that's what makes the creative process so interesting.

I've been working for the last month on the finishing touches of my fifth novel (shameless plug), and I've been dealing a lot with that sort of process. The first part of writing a story is easy --; you have your basic plot points from the beginning, and you have the outlines of your characters that you're trying to create, and you have a setting that you have to explain. It's challenging, of course, to find the right words, and it takes a lot of work, but, once you've sat down to write, it's not all that hard.

For me, the hard part comes just after I've more or less done all of that, and I have to move the story down the road. I know there are a lot of writers who outline the story from beginning to end; I've even seen charts and graphs that people apply to story and character so that, from the moment their fingers hit the keyboard, they know in what direction they're headed. But I like to think my process is a bit more organic.

And by "organic," I mean "chaotic." There's a part of me that smugly says, "I'm not that formulaic," but the reality is that I'm just not that organized.

And, by the way, my approach is one that makes writer's block an almost certain event. When I get to a turning point in the story, and I haven't worked it out ahead of time, I end up staring at the blank page until something hits me.

Which is, occasionally, my wife, upside the head, reminding me I have something else to do.

But, let me tell you, that moment when the answer hits you, when the universe opens and gives you the next plot point --; that is FUN! I get to find out what happens next! There is still the mechanics of getting it on paper, but the hard part is over at that point.

And, by the way, yes, I had two such moments in the last two weeks, and I'm now just putting a bow on the story.

I think every creative process has similar moments and processes. I'm lucky --; I get still get to have moments like that when I write music, moments that feel like you just can't put your finger on the solution and then, out of nowhere, BAM!, there's the answer. Even this past spring, putting together an ambitious program (read: crazy) for my students, I had long stretches of time where I wasn't sure how it was going to work until suddenly I was.

Even scientists, like software designers, have moments like that. Maybe the genius who came up with Pokemon, GO!, was staring at lines of code for days, trying to get to that finishing touch that would make it what he envisioned, when, a-HAH!, he or she yells out to no one in particular: "Use the camera!"

That's why I have the utmost respect for anybody who is engaging in creation, regardless of the field. You can make your way through just about any day by following the formulas, the routines, the patterns that others have established and, often, things work out great.

But creating something new is hard, it's frustrating, it's maddening, and it often fails. Inspiration knows no timelines and doesn't follow charts and graphs. But only in creation do we really change the world.

So, be bold, if you have an idea, and be stubborn. Cling to it, and keep plugging at it until you bring it into the world. The end is always worth it, and the moments along the way are incredible in ways that you just can't explain.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://arvadapress.com/stories/In-praise-of-earning-that-Eureka-moment,228967?branding=15

Public shooting range proposal dropped - #lakewoodnews

After receiving input from hundreds of community members concerned about noise impacts, Arvada and Jefferson County announced they would cease plans to develope an outdoor public shooting range in Arvada.

The proposed location was on the Blunn/Pioneer property, located just east of State Highway 93 and south of 82nd Avenue. The land is owned by the City of Arvada. The outdoor shooting range would have been roughly six acres, located on the far northwest corner of the 1,600-acre property, which is mostly undeveloped.

The decision not to move forward with the outdoor public shooting range came after the public voiced opinions at public meetings, completed online surveys and sent emails to Arvada city council members, Jefferson County Commissioners and city and county staff.

About 300 people participated in a live poll during a community meeting on June 28. Results of the poll showed that 59 percent of the attendees strongly opposed the shooting range and 27 percent strongly supported it.

Nearly 50 people participated in the public comment portion of the meeting. The majority of speakers mentioned they are not opposed to an outdoor shooting range in the county, but said Blunn/Pioneer property is not an appropriate location.

Arvada resident Susan Bennett said the tranquility of the area would be disturbed and that there would be safety concerns that come along with the shooting range. "There are people and schools way too close."

Other residents pointed out that property values may decrease and some urged the county to consider an indoor shooting range.

According to the county's research, an outdoor public shooting range is desired in Jeffco. county plans to work with stakeholders to identify an alternative site in the future. For more information, visit http://jeffco.us/bcc/board-programs/shooting-range/.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://arvadapress.com/stories/Public-shooting-range-proposal-dropped,228968?branding=15

Golden girl makes soccer squad for Rio - #lakewoodnews

Tim Schulz saw the passion that Lindsey Horan showed while she was playing for the Colorado Rush soccer club.

That passion is part of the reason that Horan, a 22-year-old graduate of Golden High School, earned a spot on the 18-player United States' women's Olympic soccer team.

Schultz, who is now president and CEO of the Rush, used to be Horan's coach starting with the Rush U14 team.

"I was her coach and maybe later on when she was 16. Not only did she have the passion but the ability," he said. "Prior to that she had a passion. She was good but it wasn't like stellar. But around 16 you could see the gifts and talents.

"Athletes that go places need a passion. They must have ability and she combines both."

Horan has played in many venues and will now be a midfielder on the U.S. roster after the team was announced July 12 for the Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

"It's such an unreal feeling," she said on the USA soccer website. "I'm grateful and thankful to get this opportunity to represent my country at the Olympics.

"It's a special feeling knowing you represent your country and have all of these amazing athletes around you and we are all, at the end of the day, one big team."

Horan is one of two Colorado-bred athletes who made the USA Olympic team. The other player is 18-year-old Mallory Pugh who graduated in May from Mountain Vista High School in Highlands Ranch.

Pugh becomes the second youngest American women's soccer Olympian. She is about a month older than Cindy Parlow was during the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Golden-girl-makes-soccer-squad-for-Rio,228928

Lakewood's Federal Center a lunch hotspot - #lakewoodnews

If you wonder what summer sounds like, visiting the Denver Federal Center on Thursdays would be a good place to start.

That's when the farmers' market sets up, bringing together the best parts of the season --; sunshine, food, ice cream, music and families.

"My favorite part about it is being outside," market manager Lauren Trenc said. "You get to see people that you don't during the workday, and have lunch with people you normally wouldn't."

The market runs from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Sept. 8 at the Federal Center, off of Kipling Street.

The Main Street entrance to the Federal Center ground winds right through the center's Bicentennial Park, where the market is held.

On a quintessential summer day in July, one thing is readily apparent: The market's reputation has expanded beyond the fences of the Federal Center. Residents from the greater Lakewood area, Denver and beyond descend to pick up such essentials as bread from Great Harvest Bread Co. and vegetables from Miller Farms.

In addition to these staples, attendees can peruse the offerings from local businesses like Rivers of Water Skincare and Hannah's Essentials cosmetics.

The plentiful grass in the park is full of children dodging through adults as they chase each other, workers enjoying some lunch in the shade, and even a yoga class.

The market's biggest lines lead to the half-dozen food trucks, each playing music as different as their culinary specialties. To switch things up for visitors, Trenc said there are two groups of food trucks --; one on site every week, the another rotating every other week.

"We wanted to give people options, so they're not just trying the same thing every week," she said.

Tocabe: An American Indian Eatery, Rolling Dough and Churn & Burn all had long lines during the lunch hour, and many visitors were getting their exercise walking back and forth among these and other options.

"Oh, did you see what they have?" shouted one employee, pointing to Bepvietusa's Vietnamese food truck. "I haven't seen them before!"

And although lines for the trucks ebbed and flowed, one truck's crowd stayed steady, especially as the day neared peak temperature.

The ice cream truck.

from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.com/stories/Lakewoods-Federal-Center-a-lunch-hotspot,228932