Serving Lakewood, Wheat Ridge and beyond
WEEK OF FEBRUARY 27, 2025
VOLUME 41 | ISSUE 30
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Social media post sparks threats against Columbine High School principal NEW DIGS FOR JEFFCOM 911
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TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TAX CREDITS
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BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
WESTMINSTER
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Comedy for CASA raises funds to support children in foster care in Jefferson and Gilbert counties.
PHOTO BY BRIDGET DVORAK / BRIDGET MARIE IMAGES
A good laugh for a greater cause CASA comedy night raises $120K to support children in foster care BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
GAPS IN SAFETY FOR STUDENTS
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2025
MINSTER VOTING STARTS
MARCH 1!
A packed house, roaring laughter, and overwhelming generosity set the stage for CASA’s biggest fundraiser yet. CASA, which stands for courtappointed special advocates of Jefferson and Gilpin Counties, traded its traditional annual gala for a stand-up comedy fundraiser at the Lakewood Cultural Center, raising $120,000 to support children navigating the foster care system. Yet, the night’s most unforgettable moment had nothing to do with the dollar amount. It was the unexpected, deeply personal moment from comedian Rocky LaPorte.
“We had no idea Rocky had his own connection to foster care,” said Melissa Hellmuth, CASA’s director of operations. “At the end of his set, he opened up about his childhood and how much he wished he had someone like a CASA advocate when he was younger. He told us he hadn’t planned to share that, but after hearing from our team, he felt compelled to.” Hellmuth said it was a moment that reinforced their mission of ensuring that kids in the system never face what they’re going through alone.
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VOICES: 8 | LIFE: 10 | CALENDAR: 13 | SPORTS: 14
More than a fundraiser
A widely shared social media post triggered threats and harassment against Columbine High School Principal Scott Christy, prompting Jeffco Public Schools to condemn the attacks and reinforce its support for Christy and his staff. The backlash began after former Republican gubernatorial candidate Heidi Ganahl amplified a CBS news report about misconduct involving former Columbine teacher Leann Kearney, tagging Libs of TikTok, a far-right social media account. The post has more than 2,000 comments, mainly calling for Christy’s resignation or incarceration, despite no evidence that Christy failed to follow the district procedure following a complaint about Kearney’s behavior. “Jeffco strongly denounces any threats directed at district staff,” district spokesperson Kimberly Mahugh said in a statement. “We stand behind Mr. Christy and the Columbine staff, and our Department of School Safety is working closely with the Jeffco Sheriff ’s Office to monitor the situation and provide support where needed to ensure everyone’s safety. “Mr. Christy has served and led Columbine High School with integrity and excellence for more than 15 years. While we welcome differences of opinion, we always encourage that they be shared in a respectful and professional manner,” Mahugh continued. The Jeffco Sheriff ’s Office said it has launched an investigation into the threats and is assessing potential legal action.
The Comedy for CASA fundraiser and the newly launched Putt for CASA mini-golf event
aim to broaden awareness, attract new advocates and reach community members who might not attend a formal gala. “This event’s success speaks volumes about the community’s commitment to our mission,” Hellmuth said. “Not only did we raise crucial funds, but we also strengthened awareness and engagement. So many people told us afterward that they want to get involved.” Nearly 200 guests enjoyed a silent auction, paddle raiser, and a spread of charcuterie and desserts. Guests bid on prizes ranging from a seven-night stay in Tuscany to a one-night getaway at Denver’s Curtis Hotel. SEE FUNDRAISER, P12
SEE THREATS, P14
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