What do you expect from a Veteran and re ghter? Only the best, correct?!
I’ve been a customer of Hands On Auto Tech and I’ve referred others because they provide a high-quality service with honest assessments about my vehicle repair needs. In working with omas Maggio, the owner, I’ve known him to consistently deliver exceptional customer service and provide what he promises.
I wouldn’t expect anything less from a Veteran and re ghter. He’s also a family man with his wife, Laura, and three daughters. He’s a role model for them, others who work with him, and those of us who’ve watched him persevere over the last 7+ years.
omas’ mechanical story started at 12-years-old when he repaired a washing machine his parents couldn’t a ord to replace. His passion grew after xing the timing belt on his rst car, a 1980 Plymouth Reliant. He then worked on vehicles for three years, professionally, before joining the Air Force.
In 1998, omas served in the US Air Force as an Aircraft Electrical and Environmental Technician on the C-5 Galaxy. He was responsible for all of the wiring, and the cabin pressurization and HVAC systems. Did you know they use pressurized air from the jet engines to heat and cool the jet interior, as well as pressurize it at high altitude? I didn’t either until omas shared that information.
After the Air Force, he and Laura started Hands On Auto Tech, where they lived in the shop with their six-month-old, while getting the business going. So far, omas has more than thirty years of professional automotive repair experience.
In 2015, omas joined the Big Elk Meadows Fire Department. He was FF1 Structure certi ed before his accident. He continues to train new recruits how to run the equipment including re trucks and water tenders. He’s currently taking the Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certi cation course in spite of losing his leg. But I’ll let him tell you that story.
My truck looked wrong. e windshield was shattered, and the roof was collapsing inward, pinning me.
When I looked down, I saw a horrifying sight where my left knee used to be. It was a bloody, unrecognizable mess. en I passed out.
When I came to again, re ghters were cutting me out of the truck.
I recognized the sound immediately. I’m a re ghter myself. My leg was still bleeding badly, and there was no tourniquet yet. I tried to move, but I was trapped. e steering wheel pressed into my body. I yelled to the nearest re ghter that I needed a tourniquet. He told me they were working as fast as they could.
I remember thinking that if they knew I was one of them, they’d understand I knew what I was asking. I couldn’t reach my wallet, so I kept yelling for them to look at my license plate. Finally, someone did. I heard them yell, “He’s a re ghter.”
Almost immediately, someone asked what I needed. I told them again. e tourniquet arrived, and I helped guide it under what remained of my mangled upper leg. Once it was tightened, my life was saved.
omas shared, “I left work around 8:00 p.m. on November 27, 2018. I was exhausted. I hadn’t eaten all day, and I hadn’t slept well in three days. As I drove west on Highway 119 toward County Road 1, I nodded o for just a brief second. I was traveling at 55 miles per hour.
I woke up to sirens.
I passed out again.
I remember ashes after that. Being loaded into the ambulance. Pain surging as the adrenaline faded. I heard discussion of amputation. I yelled, “Don’t cut o my leg.” A medic giving me medication. Darkness.
Before being own to UCHealth Aurora, the doctor said he needed to staple my head wound. He was searching for anesthesia, worried about my pain. I told him to staple me anyway. Compared to my leg, the staples didn’t matter.
I woke again as I was loaded into a helicopter. Someone told me they were going to take good care of me.
At UCHealth, I woke to nd my leg held together by external metal rods— two in my thigh and two in my lower leg— connected by bars to keep everything stable. A wound vac drained the area where my knee had been. e doctors
explained the damage was severe and that amputation was likely. I asked them to do everything possible to save my leg.
The surgeries began.
Every few days, I was taken back to the operating room. Each wound vac change
required full surgery. Every time the wound was cleaned, it essentially reopened my wounds. Along the way, they repaired my hip socket with plates and screws and stabilized my pelvis with additional hardware.
e pain was relentless. After each surgery, it worsened. At its peak, the pain reached levels where I couldn’t think or speak clearly. My wife stayed by my side, holding my hand, grounding me through the worst of it. I welcomed anesthesia because it meant temporary relief.
Eventually, the doctors met to decide whether to attempt reconstruction of my knee. ey warned me the process would be brutal, with little chance of success and limited mobility even if it worked. I told them I had to try. I knew I would regret giving up without a ght.
On December 21, everything changed. Infection had entered my bones. One of the bacteria was lifethreatening. e decision was made for me. My leg had to be removed.
Strangely, I felt relief.
ey started me on aggressive antibiotics that made me feel like I was dying, but when my leg was amputated on December 22, the pain was nally manageable. Phantom limb pain followed—sharp, twisting sensations where my leg used to be—but even that was less than what I had endured before.
After weeks of treatment, the infection cleared. I was stitched up and released just after the new year, ending a 34-day hospital stay. I remain grateful to the nurses who cared for me during that time.
Months later, I learned something devastating.
During my pelvic repairs, two screws inserted by UCHealth were too long. ey
extend beyond my pelvis and press into surrounding tissue, causing constant and severe pain. For six months, I was shown altered X-rays that hid this. Only after the statute of limitations expired was I shown the unmodi ed imaging that revealed the truth.
Removing the screws requires a dangerous and very expensive surgery. Today, I live with constant pain. Still, I show up. I come into the shop every day to make sure my customers receive the best service possible. I push forward because that’s what I know how to do. omas concludes with, “I only wish the hospital stood behind their work the way we stand behind ours.”
Can we stand behind omas, his family and his business? If it’s at all possible for you to help get omas the surgery he requires to replace those two screws causing him excruciating pain, please click on the QR code and donate to the GoFundMe page. We’ve helped others in our community, and I hope we can help him too. ank you.
Kelly MartindaleOWNER/Publisher
What's OnMy Mind
Beyond the Forecast: Who Changes the Weather?
My husband checks the weather app on his phone multiple times a day. Most days, it’s the rst thing he studies. at app seems to have control over how he plans his entire day or dreads tomorrow.
e weather is a daily topic of conversation at meals, in the news and on social media. Inevitably, those exchanges include implications, even 100% blame, that climate change is the fault of the human race.
Storms seem stronger and the seasons feel unpredictable. Yes, headlines warn of droughts, oods, res, and warming temperatures. In fact, in two days the headlines read:
• Avalanche evacuations advised for Juneau residents as atmospheric river slams Alaska
• O cials warn of catastrophic conditions as millions su er from sweltering heat wave
• Experts stunned as California experiences unexpected conditions not seen in over 25 years
• Meteorologist issues warning after making alarming observation across US regions
Conversations often carry an undercurrent of fear about what the future holds and whether the earth itself is slipping beyond our control. We worry because we care. We want the world to be safe for our children and grandchildren. We want stability. We want assurance that tomorrow will look familiar and dependable.
For believers, we have another truth. We know the Bible speaks about the weather. But that knowledge can easily get lost beneath all the noise.
We must remember that long before modern science, satellites, or climate models, Scripture acknowledged wind and rain, drought and storms, heat and cold. God’s Word never treats the natural world as random or out of control. Instead, it consistently points back to a Creator
who remains intimately involved with His creation.
Many people believe human activity plays a role in environmental changes. And Scripture does a rm that we are called to stewardship. From the beginning, God entrusted humanity with care of the earth, placing Adam in the garden “to tend and watch over it.” (Genesis 2:15)
Caring is biblical. But Scripture never gives humans the role of ultimate control. at distinction matters.
Humans try seeding clouds and making snow. Yet even with all our knowledge and technology, the most powerful weather systems still leave us watching, waiting, hoping, and praying.
e Bible reminds us, “He directs the snow to fall on the earth and tells the rain to pour down. en everyone stops working so they can watch his power” (Job 37:6–7, NLT).
Everyone stops working. Not because they’re helpless, but because something greater than human e ort is on display. roughout Scripture, weather isn’t presented as chaos. It is presented as creation responding to its Creator.
“ e Lord does whatever pleases him throughout all heaven and earth… He causes the clouds to rise…He sends the lightning with the rain and releases the wind from his storehouses.” (Psalm 135:6–7)
ose words show God’s complete involvement. And yet, our culture often carries the belief that extreme weather means the world is spinning out of control. at nature itself has become unstable. But extreme weather is not new.
e Bible speaks of oods, famines, droughts, hailstorms, and violent winds long before factories or fossil fuels existed. ose moments were never described as accidents of nature. Sometimes they were warnings. Sometimes they were protection. Sometimes they were simply reminders that creation doesn’t belong to us.
“The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land. In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. This is the name by which he will be called: The LORD Our Righteous Savior. - Jeremiah 23:5-6
When Job questioned God about su ering, God responded, “Have you visited the storehouses of the snow or seen the storehouses of hail?” (Job 38:22) ere are things beyond our reach—and that’s okay.
Scripture shares the truth. After the ood, God made a promise—not to humanity alone, but to the earth itself. “As long as the earth remains, there will be planting and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night.” (Genesis 8:22)
at promise wasn’t conditional on perfect human behavior. It’s rooted in God’s faithfulness. at doesn’t excuse carelessness on our part. But it does relieve despair. We’re called to steward what’s created. To care for, not to control.
Science helps us understand how weather works. at knowledge is a gift. Forecasts can protect lives. Research can provide wisdom. Faith doesn’t compete with science. It simply acknowledges its limits. Faith reminds us, God holds authority over the storms.
Even Jesus demonstrated this truth when He and His disciples were caught in a violent storm. e disciples panicked, certain they were about to perish. But Jesus stood and spoke three simple words, “Silence! Be still!” (Mark 4:39) And the wind obeyed.
e storm didn’t slowly weaken. It didn’t gradually shift direction. It stopped. at moment wasn’t about weather. It was about authority.
e same Jesus who calmed the Sea of Galilee is still Lord over creation today. at doesn’t mean every storm has a spiritual explanation, nor does it mean we label disasters as judgment. But it does assure us that nothing happens outside God’s awareness.
Perhaps that’s why Scripture points us back to the skies, not to frighten us, but to humble us. To remind us that we’re not
Serving SW Weld County: Firestone, Frederick, Dacono, Erie, E. Longmont, & Mead! The ONLY Colorado publication to reach Consumers in our area every month! For Display Advertising, feature articles written, press releases or classifieds, send
sovereign. Only God is. We should care for what God’s made because it belongs to Him, not because the future rests in our hands.
When the headlines feel heavy and the forecasts feel frightening, we can lift our eyes higher than the clouds themselves. If He is faithful with the earth, He will be faithful with us. Because above every storm, beyond every scienti c model, and deeper than every fear stands the same unchanging truth: e skies are still under God’s command. And so are our lives.
By Erin Lee Americans
should not turn a blind eye to what is happening in blue states. What unfolds in Colorado rarely stays in Colorado.
Increasingly, our state serves as a testing ground for policies later exported nationwide, a litmus test for the United States much like Europe is a preview of emerging social trends for the rest of the world. Just two decades ago, Colorado was considered a reliably conservative state. at changed through a coordinated, wellfunded political strategy that its architects openly described as a “blueprint,” while warning that states like Texas would be next.
As I write this, it is the rst day of Colorado’s 2026 legislative session. Already, Democrats have introduced a bill titled “Legal Protections for the Dignity of Minors” (SB 26-018) that would make legal namechange records for minors con dential and strip custody and decision-making rights from parents who do not a rm their child’s claimed gender identity.
In blue states, Democrat supermajorities increasingly dominate state government. In Colorado, where I live, there are no conservatives holding executive o ce, and the legislature is
controlled by a far-left majority. As a result, not only are we unable to pass sound, commonsense legislation, we are often powerless to stop laws that are unconstitutional, harmful, and untethered from reality.
e 2025 legislative session was yet another marathon of ideologically driven policymaking centered on gender identity. Colorado enacted laws that forces all private insurance companies to pay for all wrong-sex cosmetic procedures for transidenti ed people (HB 25-1309,) protects the doctors who chemically and surgically mutilate children from investigation or lawsuit (SB 25-129,) makes “misgendering” and “deadnaming” illegal (HB 25-1312, think Jack the cake baker,) eliminates any data on children being given wrong-sex hormone prescriptions (also HB 25-1309,) and criminalizes recording accurate sex on death certi cates (Yes, you read that correctly. HB 25-1109.)
Yet even amid this sobering reality, there is reason for hope. In response to the rapid advance of radical ideology, a broad and growing coalition of Coloradans has emerged — people of faith and conviction who are paying attention, setting aside di erences, and utilizing citizen-led ballot
initiatives to push back.
Article V, Section 1 of the Colorado Constitution states that “the people reserve to themselves the power to propose laws and amendments to the constitution.” at is precisely what is happening. With more than 1,500 volunteers active in all 64 counties, Protect Kids Colorado is advancing three ballot initiatives: stronger penalties for child sex tra ckers (#108), protections for girls’ sports (#109), and a prohibition on irreversible gendertransition procedures for minors (#110). e deadline to submit 125,000 valid signatures from registered Colorado voters is mid-February. Because the signaturegathering process is heavily regulated and often prohibitively expensive, most e orts rely on millions of dollars in paid signature collection. Protect Kids Colorado, a Spiritled, all-volunteer organization, is seeking to defy that model by mobilizing the Church and everyday citizens to carry this e ort across the nish line.
With the support of Catholic Vote, the Colorado Catholic Conference, Truth & Liberty, Focus on the Family,hundreds of Evangelical partners, including Calvary Chapels and Assemblies of God congregations, and large churches such as
Flatirons and Brave, along with thousands of concerned Coloradans, these initiatives are now within striking distance of success. If the Church, the hands and feet of Jesus, continues to step forward with courage, unity, and conviction, these measures will qualify for the ballot. And if they do, Colorado can make history — becoming the rst non-conservative state to join 27 red states in passing real protections for children and sparking a ripple e ect across the country.
ese grassroots battles in America’s blue-state strongholds matter to the entire nation. is is not merely a political struggle; it is a spiritual one, for the hearts, minds, and futures of our children. We were born for such a time as this (Esther 4:14). If the Church continues to stand, God will continue to move, and the next generation will not be surrendered to darkness.
Used with permission from Erin Lee, the executive director for Protect Kids Colorado. By Erin Lee, Op-ed contributor Monday, January 19, 2026 https://www. christianpost.com/voices/blue-state-the-
Love you
Mom and Dad
Happy 24th Birthday to our twin daughters.
Happy 4th Birthday to our Princess Linaya Carlstrom. You keep the family laughing. Love Nana and Pops
Christina and Jason Parker
Christina and Jason Parker
| ellen@erosslaw.com
Happy 1st Birthday in December
Leon (Leo) Carlstrom. You are an amazing little man. Your snuggles are so special.
Love you Nana and Pops
Christina and Jason Parker
Happy 7th birthday to Hearthy Rae!
You’re a ray of sunshine with the most tender heart. We are proud of you. May the Lord bless you and keep you!
Love Daddy, Mommy, Knightley, Finan, and Talis
FREE Birthday Announcements. Send one high resolution photo w/ “birthday” typed in subject line to carbonvalley@gmail.com by 10th of month. Keep to 30 words please. Keep Up With Local Happenings
If you want to know what’s going on in Firestone, Frederick, and Dacono, LIKE www.facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport and @cvcr1999 on IG & get regular noti cations. For digital version, free subscription, sign up at www.yourhomepagenews.com
Golf Tournament for Hispanic Education Foundation Scholarships
For over 30 years, the Hispanic Education Foundation (HEF) has supported Hispanic and Latino students in the St. Vrain Valley with local scholarships. Our year-end friendly golf tournament fundraiser is on Friday, June 12, 2026, AT Ute Creek Golf Course in Longmont. We are looking for sponsors to help more students reach their goals. Your support directly bene ts local youth and strengthens our community’s future. e HEF Longmont Board of Directors invites businesses and community leaders to partner with us and invest in the next generation. HEFlongmont.com/golf
About the Scholarship
Recipients receive a $1,000 scholarship (based on eligibility) for their rst year of studies and re-apply for a returning scholarship for three more years to total $2,500 over their four years of study. e Hispanic Education Foundation Scholarship is not based solely on a student’s grade point average (GPA) or their community service. All students are encouraged to apply. Applicants are not limited by race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or disability. Submit completed application and all attachments by 5:00 PM on March 6th, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. https://www.heflongmont.com/scholarship
Photography by Mackenzie Marie Photography
Register: 2026 Mead Motorheads Memorial Day Classic Car Show
Hey car show fans, we’re proud to announce the return of our annual Memorial Day show in 2026!
We had to cancel last year’s show due to some new construction in the town of Mead, but this year’s event is a full go.
With this news comes another update that we’re extremely excited to share: the launch of our brand-new website https://www. meadmotorheads.com/
Now there are two ways to register your vehicle for our show: Online and By Mail. We prefer you use the online method as it is so much easier and more e cient. All of the relevant information is on the website, so tap the link above to nd out more. Don’t delay registering. is is a smaller venue with a limited number of spaces available, so don’t miss out!
One other important piece of news… due to a lack of participation / interest, we’ve decided to eliminate the Next-Generation trophy class and limit this show to vehicles from 1974 and older. at’s why we’ve decided to re-name the event our Memorial Day CLASSIC Car Show. We’d like to pre-emptively apologize to any owners of Next-Gen vehicles 1975 and newer that this change may upset, but we still invite you to bring your car down to the show even if it isn’t eligible for event registration! You can park on Main Street - no problem.
Questions? Comments? Concerns? We’re here to help! Please reply to this email or email us separately at meadmotorheads@gmail.com for assistance.
We look forward to seeing you at the event!
e Mead Motorheads
Jim, Torrey, Danny, Craig, Dave, Charlie, Ken, Je , Evvy, and John
GovernmentMAYORS&Elections&LocalNEWS
CVCR Election/Editorial Policy: The CVCR takes a non-biased approach in election support and Letters to the Editor. The CVCR does not endorse candidates but prints bios, platforms, and letters, FREE, as space is available and only edits for spacing.
Frederick 2026 Ballot Question
Frederick voters will see a ballot question in 2026 asking whether the Town’s regular municipal election date should move from April to November in even-numbered years. If approved by voters, Town elections would be held on the same date as the statewide general election, allowing Frederick to participate in coordinated elections conducted by the Weld County Clerk and Recorder. Why is the Town pursuing this change? e proposed change is intended to:
Increase voter participation
Improve e ciency in government services
Reduce election costs for the Town
Recent election data shows a signi cant di erence in voter turnout between the April and November elections. In the April 2024 regular election, 1,242 votes were cast. In contrast, 4,438 votes were cast during the November 2023 coordinated election, an increase of 3,196 voters. By moving elections to November, the Town would be able to partner with the County to conduct them, reducing the Town sta ’s administrative workload and generating cost savings.
Recent elections also show that coordinating with the County costs signi cantly less than conducting a Town-run election. e coordinated election in 2023 cost approximately $15,400, compared to about $35,000 for the Town’s independent 2024 election, largely due to ballot printing and vote-counting equipment. While costs can vary by election, coordinating with the County could save the Town an estimated $15,000 to $20,000 per election.
What would happen to current and future trustee terms?
If voters approve the change:
Trustees elected in 2024 would serve terms ending in November 2028, resulting in a one-time six-month extension.
Trustees elected in 2026 would serve terms ending in November 2030, also re ecting a six-month extension.
Why does this decision require voter approval?
State law requires municipalities to ask voters before changing their regular election date. is ballot question allows Frederick residents to decide whether the Town should move its elections to November or continue holding them in April.
What happens after the election?
If voters approve the ballot question, the Town will adopt an ordinance to implement the new November election schedule.
If voters do not approve the measure, Town elections will continue to be held in April of even-numbered years.
Residents are encouraged to review the full ballot language and additional background information on the Town’s 2026 Ballot Question webpage before Election Day.
Gone Full Digital
After 26 wonderful years of printing and delivering our community newspaper, we’re excited to announce the next chapter in our story: we’ve gone fully digital! Rising postage costs and new tari s on printing supplies and paper have made traditional print increasingly di cult to sustain—but instead of slowing down, we’re stepping forward with renewed energy and vision.
e best news? Your paper will look exactly the same—just no longer printed on paper. You’ll still enjoy the same (but more) trusted content, familiar layout, and local stories you’ve counted on for nearly three decades. Now, you can read every issue anytime at www.issuu.com/consumerreport and on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates, features, and community highlights. If you prefer delivery straight to your inbox, simply sign up for a FREE subscription at www.yourhomepagenews.com and we’ll add you to our list.
Going digital allows us to reach even more readers, more quickly, and without the rising costs that a ect so many publications. Our online circulation continues to grow, and our readers remain among the most loyal you’ll nd anywhere—many have been with us since the very beginning. at longevity, reputation, and community trust create an incredible opportunity for local businesses.
To our advertisers: there’s never been a better time to partner with us.
Your message will travel farther, last longer, and connect with an engaged audience that values high-quality local content. Together, we can continue strengthening the vibrant community we all love. ank you for supporting us through every season. e best is ahead!
Town of Firestone Special Municipal Election
e resolution accepts the Town Clerk’s Certi cates of Su ciency for recall petitions led against two current Trustees and formally calls for a Special Election.
Following the approval of Resolution 26-09 at the Board of Trustees meeting on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Town of Firestone Board of Trustees set a special election for April 21, 2026. Adoption of the resolution establishes the election date, authorizes the election to be conducted as a mail ballot election in accordance with state law, and directs the Designated Election O cial to take all actions necessary to administer the recall election.
On November 20, 2025, recall petitions were submitted seeking the recall of ve elected o cials. On December 1, 2025, the Town Clerk issued initial determinations nding four of the ve petitions su cient.
Protests to the Town Clerk’s determinations were subsequently led, and an administrative protest hearing was held on December 18, 2025, before a hearing o cer appointed by the Board of Trustees. Following the hearing, the hearing o cer issued a written nal determination nding the recall petitions for Trustees Lorna Morton and Raymond Byrd su cient. Pursuant to state law, the Town Clerk submitted Certi cates of Su ciency for those petitions to the Board of Trustees, requiring the Board to order a recall election within the statutory timeframe.
During the election, the Town’s electors will be asked whether the named Trustees should be recalled and, if applicable, to elect successor candidates to serve the remainder of the unexpired terms.
More Information & Important Dates:
View the 2026 Recall Election FAQs here
First day petition may be circulated: ursday, January 22, 2026. Nomination petitions are available from the Town Clerk’s o ce (9950 Park Avenue).
Last day to le nomination petition: Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
Last day to cure nomination petition: Friday, February 13, 2026.
Additional Fair Campaign Practices Act deadlines will be shared with candidates.
For more election and candidate information, please visit www.firestoneco.gov/ election
GovernmentMAYORS&Elections&LocalNEWS
CVCR Election/Editorial Policy: The CVCR takes a non-biased approach in election support and Letters to the Editor. The CVCR does not endorse candidates but prints bios, platforms, and letters, FREE, as space is available and only edits for spacing.
RE-ELECT: Virginia (Ginny) A. Buczek for United Power Director
I am Virginia “Ginny” Buczek, the incumbent director in the North District. I appreciate your support and the opportunity to represent you (the United Power Members) on the Board of Directors. I am fully committed to the United Power Community and the members it serves. I have 13 years of private sector managerial work experience and studied business management at Red Rocks Community College. My earned CCD, Board Leadership and Gold Leadership certi cations from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) demonstrate the skills needed to perform the duties of a Cooperative Director.
I have served as the President, Vice-President, Secretary/ Treasurer, and Chair of the Audit Committee. As United Power’s director on the Colorado Rural Electric Association Board (CREA). is Past President of the CREA Board, serves on CREA’s Executive and Policy Committees and has served as CREA’s Vice President, Secretary, Treasure and the Budget and Finance Chair. Currently I am the elected representative of the Four State Region 7, as a member of the Regulatory Policy Committee.
My elected and appointed experience includes Weld County Council, Southwest Weld Technical Committee, Tri-area Ambulance Board of Directors. Active in my hometown, on the Firestone Planning Commission, Firestone Board of Trustees, and Park Commission, receiving the Colorado State Parks’ Conservation Hero Award, 2006 also serving on the Board of the United Power Round-Up Foundation.
I have been active in civic groups including 4-H, Girl Scouts, Neighborhood Watch, and Frederick High School Booster Club.
I am a member of the Colorado WestPoint Parents Club, have served on Congressional and Senatorial Military Academy Appointment Boards and as member of Weld County’s Bright Futures Advisory Board.
“ e electric industry is rapidly changing, presenting new opportunities and challenges requiring experienced, knowledgeable leadership. It is the responsibility of Directors to contribute to decisions resulting in a focused plan to maximize and leverage opportunities, mitigate risk and maintain a quality workforce. Ensuring safe, reliable, cost-e cient electrical power,
Endorsement for Ginny Buczek
Virginia (Ginny) Buczek has been an e ective Director on United Power’s Board, and I would encourage United Power members to vote to continue with her as our Director. I have interacted with Ginny in her various community service roles over many years and she has always made it a top priority to listen to and look out for the members of the community she represents. Ginny is available and responsive.
As a Director for United Power, Mrs. Buczek has strived to keep our electrical system reliable, safe, and cost e ective by balancing United’s resources, energy sources, and customer needs in an ever-changing economic and regulatory environment. Ginny’s years of experience with United Power have been and will continue to be a valuable asset for both the organization and its customers.
Greg Zadel – Firestone resident and business owner.
nancial stability, maintaining quality service for all United Power members, and positioning the Cooperative to provide the future needs of our communities are fundamental Board duties.
Pressure continues to complicate the operation of Cooperative Electric Distribution Systems, regulations, mandates, supply chain issues, and lack of transmission require careful consideration by education, experience Directors with demonstrated leadership.
I have been a committed member of the United Power community for thirty-four years and remain focused on the families and businesses of our community. I thank you for the investment you have made in me as one of your United Power Directors. That investment has provided hundreds of hours of Electric Cooperative education. Using my electric director education, cooperative experience, and the input you have provided, I will continue to work for the best interest of the members. Thank you, for your continued support and interest in Your Co-Op. I would be honored to serve you, the members, for another term.”
Look for your ballot in the mail around March 13th. Online voting begins March 13 at UnitedPower.com
Annual Meeting: April 15th, Adams County Fair Grounds.
Respectfully, Virginia A. “Ginny” Buczek
Congrats! Frederick Police Promotions
Please join us in congratulating Eddie Lopez and Tolo Amengual on their promotions to Sergeant. Eddie and Tolo have earned this next step through their professionalism, leadership, and genuine care for our community. ey are o cers who lead by example, show up for residents, and support their teammates every day. We’re proud to see them take on this new role and look forward to the continued impact they’ll have within the department and across Frederick. If you see them around town, please help us congratulate them.
Area Mayors’ Report—For those of us who don’t attend meetings
complete, the POST Master Plan will guide the future of parks, open space, and trails in Mead, with more opportunities for resident input ahead.
Responsible Growth: The Parks, Open Space, and Trails (POST) Master Plan update was presented by Logan Simpson at the December 8, 2025, Board of Trustees meeting, highlighting community and stakeholder input along with findings from the Existing Conditions and Needs Assessment. The plan now moves into the Operations and Recommendations phase, which will focus on costs, funding, maintenance capacity, and continued community engagement to refine priorities and concepts. Once
FREDERICK MAYOR, TRACIE CRITES
Happy February, Frederick! This month is a wonderful opportunity to connect and share a little extra love with family and the people who make our community special.
I want to take a moment to recognize the dedicated professionals who serve Frederick every day. This month, we celebrate School Resource Officer Appreciation Day, honoring the officers who work closely with our students, families, and schools to create safe
Reliable Infrastructure: Construction at the Municipal Facilities site at Hwy 66 and CR 7 in the Liberty Ranch subdivision is progressing. The High Plains Library District’s new Mead branch is now vertical and setting steel, while Mountain View Fire Rescue’s new fire station is in the footing and foundation phase. Although both projects are located on Town-owned property, each is fully funded, constructed, and operated by its respective entity.
Public Safety: The Town of Mead Municipal Court now meets on the third Tuesday of each month instead of the third Thursday. Municipal Court has jurisdiction over offenses committed within town limits, including traffic infractions and misdemeanor traffic offenses, criminal offenses, parking and animal violations, and violations of Town ordinances related to zoning, building, codes, and other local regulations.
and supportive learning environments. We also recognize National Engineers Week, a time to thank the engineers whose behind-thescenes work helps keep our infrastructure strong, reliable, and ready for the future.
We also appreciate our Public Works team, who help keep our community moving safely during winter weather. From plowing and sanding to monitoring forecasts and responding quickly as conditions change, our crews work around the clock to carry out the Town’s comprehensive Snow and Ice Control Plan. frederickco. gov/387/Snow-and-Ice-Control
Supporting our young people remains a priority for the Town. The Town of Frederick Scholarship Program continues to provide financial assistance to help local students pursue their educational goals. If you know a graduating senior or college student who could benefit, I encourage you to learn more and apply at frederickco. gov/984/Scholarship-Program
Fiscal Stability: On January 5, the Board of Trustees held its first retreat of the year at the Public Works Facility. Trustees reviewed current Town projects and discussed long-term objectives. These retreats help align priorities, support responsible use of resources, and strengthen planning for the Town’s continued growth and financial stability.
Connected Community: The Town of Mead and the Mead Area Chamber of Commerce are rolling out the second annual Shop Mead and Win event, taking place February 1st through February 28th. Participants are encouraged to shop locally at any Mead Area Chamber of Commerce member business or any licensed business in Mead for a chance to win prizes. Participants must spend at least $15 and submit a receipt showing the amount and business name: bit.ly/shopmeadwin. Keep up with what’s happening in Mead by subscribing to the monthly Mead Messenger and signing up for email updates at www.townofmead.org/portal. New to Mead? Visit the Resident Information page at bit.ly/47PocLg for helpful resources.
Earlier this year, the Board of Trustees held a mini workshop to review the results of the 2025 Community Survey. One message came through clearly: transportation continues to be a top priority for our residents. These insights help guide our planning and decisionmaking as we work to improve safety, mobility, and connectivity throughout Frederick.
Finally, I invite you to connect with me during February office hours on Monday, February 9, from 8 to 9:30 am, and Thursday, February 19, from 5 to 6:30 pm. These informal conversations are a great opportunity to ask questions, share ideas, or simply talk about what matters most to you. I also encourage you to visit the Town website, where my monthly message and contact information are always available as a helpful resource.
Thank you, Frederick. I am honored to serve as your Mayor.
MEAD MAYOR, COLLEEN WHITLOW
RealESTATE&LocalRealtors
Finding An Address In Weld Cty
Weld County Road numbering systems may seem confusing, but there is some logic to it. Once you master the system, the only problem you will have is nding out which roads actually go through to the one you are looking for.
e rst thing to remember is that the even-numbered go east to west and the oddnumbered roads go north to south. Secondly, each numbered road is one mile from the previous one and the numbers get larger as you go north or east. For example, WCR 13 goes north and south and is one mile east of WCR 11 and one mile west of WCR 15. WCR 18 goes east and west and is one mile north of WCR 16 and one mile south of WCR 20. e roads in-between the mile roads are labeled as a fraction based on the distance from the lower numbered roads. If a road is 1/2 mile north of WCR 16, it would be WCR 16 1/2.
Another thing to keep in mind with the road names is that they change within many of the municipalities. For example, WCR 11 is York in Dacono, Silver Birch in Frederick, and Birch in Firestone. WCR 20 is Bella Rosa Parkway in Frederick and becomes Pine Cone when you are in Firestone. e only one that is somewhat consistent is WCR 13, which is Colorado Blvd. in all three communities.
Most confusion begins when trying to locate a certain house number. ere is some logic to this system, even though it may not be apparent. To begin with, determine whether you are looking for an o or even numbered cross street. If your address is on an even-numbered road, you need to nd the odd-numbered cross street and if you are looking for a house on an odd-numbered road, you need an even-numbered cross street.
Now comes the tricky part. Look at the address number and follow these directions: 1. Look at the number left after dropping the last three digits. 2. Double that number. 3. If you are looking for an odd-numbered cross road, add 1. If you are looking for an evennumbered cross road, add 2. 4. e result is the number of the cross street.
To further de ne where the property is, look at the rest of the address number. e next 2 digits (the second and third from the right) tell you how many hundredths of a mile from the cross street the property is located. e nal digit (on the right) tells you what side of the street the property is on. Odd for north and west sides, even for south and east sides.
Now for example: 6513 WCR 51. 1. Ignoring the last 3 digits leaves a 6. 2. Doubling the 6 gives us 12. 3. Since we are on an odd-numbered road we are looking for an even-numbered cross street, we add 2, giving us 14. is means the property is located north of WCR 14. 4. e next to digits (51) tell us the house is 51/100ths north and the 3 means it is on the west side of the road.
e house numbering also works for most of the new subdivisions in the Carbon Valley area. By examining the house number as shown above, you will be able to get a general idea where the property is located. One other twist is now the municipalities are re-naming the county roads within their boundaries. Even though the street name changes, the numbering usually remains the same. For example, in Dacono, Frederick and Firestone, WCR 13 is known as Colorado Boulevard, but in those same communities, WCR 11 is called York Street, Silver Birch Blvd, and Birch Avenue, respectfully.
Now you can amaze your friends by not having to ask for directions when looking for that house out in the county. If you would like a free current map of the Carbon Valley area, just let me know.
HealthSPIRITUAL&Mental&Physical
Food for the Soul: Love Your Enemies
February is upon us and you know what that means—Valentine’s Day! is is a day set aside for us to express our love through the gift of cards, roses, teddy bears, and my personal favorite—chocolate!
ese gifts are given to those who we tend to care about the most, those most important to us, but what about our enemies? What about your enemies?
ose who have hurt you, taken advantage of you, cut you o on the highway, those of a di erent political party? Yes, those people for they are the ones we are to love as well because this is what Jesus has commanded us in Matthew 5:44 to, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Now, I know what you are thinking, “Absolutely not! You don’t know what this person or these people have done to me. You don’t know how deep the wounds are.”
And to that I would say, yeah, you are right. I don’t know or understand the full weight of what has been done to you or the pain or the hurt, but one thing I do know—the love Jesus has shown you and me, His enemies.
You see friend, it is we who have hurt Him, took advantage of Him, hurled insults at Him, slandered His name. It is our own sin, yours and mine, that has made us His enemy - but at the cross of Jesus Christ do we nd, do we see and do we, His enemies receive His love.
Weld County Health Department Encourages
Small Steps For A Health Heart During American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month, and the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment (WCDPHE) is encouraging residents to take small steps toward better heart health. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., but simple lifestyle changes — like eating well, staying active, and managing stress — can help keep hearts strong.
High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes increase the risk of heart disease. In Weld County, 29% of adults have high blood pressure, and 65% of adults and 29% of children are overweight or obese, according to the most recent Community Health Survey.
“Heart health isn’t about drastic changes — it’s about small, daily choices that add up over time,” said Bob McDonald, Health Education, Communication and Planning Director at WCDPHE. “Programs like Diabetes Prevention, HEAL (Healthy Eating, Active Living), and Cooking Matters help residents make these changes in a supportive and sustainable way.”
Making heart-healthy choices doesn’t have to be di cult. e Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) helps residents reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes, a key factor in heart disease, through nutrition, exercise, and stress management. HEAL promotes balanced nutrition and regular physical activity to support heart health. Cooking Matters teaches families how to shop smart and prepare a ordable, heart-healthy meals.
For more information on these WCDPHE programs, visit weld.gov/go/healthed
Diabetes by the Numbers: Why Lifestyle Matters
is month, AARP Bulletin ran a major article titled “ e War on Diabetes.” is is a topic I’m deeply passionate about, especially when it comes to prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes.
In 2025, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) and the ADA (American Diabetes Association) referred to diabetes as “one of the most serious health problems our country has ever faced.”
I couldn’t agree more—and I’ve been sounding this alarm for years.
e statistics are staggering.
ree out of four Americans age 65 or older, and nearly two out of three adults ages 45–64, have prediabetes/diabetes.
ese numbers don’t even include the estimated 20% of adults over 45 who don’t know they have it.
E ectively, nearly 8 in 10 adults are a ected.
Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S.
Even more eye-opening: the CDC estimates that 87% of Type 2 diabetes is lifestylerelated.
I can’t stress enough that you know your fasted glucose and A1C numbers. So even if you don’t regularly visit a doctor, I recommend purchasing a relatively inexpensive glucose monitor so you can test at home. Knowledge truly is power.
e media often points to weight as the primary culprit, but the reality is - diabetes is much more complex. Being overweight does not automatically mean you have diabetes— it simply means you may be more predisposed.
GLP-1 drugs seem to be the go-to solution for weight loss and less and less through lifestyle. ese medications help:
However, GLP-1s are not a universal solution, especially if you are already producing su cient insulin. ere are also potential side e ects to consider.
Don’t get me wrong—there are situations where I would recommend a GLPs but going that route without making lifestyle changes is only a temporary solution. e medication alone is not a miracle.
So, what actually helps prevent or manage diabetes?
1. Nutrition - Eat less. Eat whole foods. Avoid added sugars and highly processed foods. Many programs suggest eliminating carbohydrates entirely—but removing whole food groups isn’t healthy either. Carbs are not a four-letter word.
So please understand, Jesus is not asking you to do anything He has not already done. e Lord is asking you and I do to others what He has already done for us but we cannot do it on our own. We cannot love our enemies unless we have rst received His love for us. en, and only then, will we be able to truly love our enemies for God’s love will then ow in us and out to those around us—including our enemies. Maybe not in a box of chocolates or in a mushy valentine card, but in a prayer for them or in silence instead of hurling insults. Maybe it is an acknowledgement of the hurt we have caused others followed by a true and sincere apology.
So for this Valentine’s Day, use it as an opportunity to express your love for all, including your enemies. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Even your enemies do the very same thing!
God bless!
Joe Kitto, Pastor Calvary Chapel Carbon Valley www.calvarycarbonvalley.church
Let’s Study the Bible: Emotions
How do we respond to being yelled at? Do we respond in kind? What is the proper response? ere is righteous and unrighteous anger & silence. How do we know what one we are dealing with in any given situation? “ ose who are shamed but do not shame in return, who hear themselves abused and do not retort, who serve the Lord out of love and rejoice in a ictions.” (Rabbi Yisrael Meir Kagan), this man is seeking the ways of God. is is a great teaching, even Jesus was able to keep silent when wrongly accused (Acts 8:32; Matt 26:63). Jesus could have very easily and righteously reacted in anger. After all, he was being wrongly accused. e sages explain that there are 3 steps to mastering this trait: 1) not being ashamed when his friend shames him, but possibly retorting. 2) compelling himself not to retort so as not to draw down upon himself, even more shaming by his friend. 3) serving out of love and rejoicing in a ictions. at is, our not retorting stems from our loving the Lord and accepting these a ictions with joy. And when we reach the third level, we merit all this honor. For this trait comes to a man from the holiness of his soul and his pure faith in the Lord that He directs all his ways, as it is written (Job 34:21): “For His eyes are on the ways of a man” and He does all for his good. When Cain was angry God tells him: “Sin is crouching at the door, and its desire is for you, but you must master it” (Genesis 4:7). We can master this, with practice. ere is a beautiful Jewish tradition called Mussar, that is for self-improvement “which focuses on living a more conscientious life and heightening awareness of the world and one’s responsibilities; it aims to help us become more holy, and more whole.” (L. Felson). We have a monthly virtual ladies group that does this together, if you would like to join contact me. FirestoneBibleStudy@gmail.com
2. Exercise. I’m not talking about casual movement (like walking the dog while it stops to sni and pee on everything, which is good as well). I’m talking about intentional exercise that raises your heart rate.
3. Sleep. Sleep is when your body heals and repairs itself. If you’re not getting at least 7 hours of quality sleep, you may actually be harming your health. Somewhere along the way, Americans started wearing four hours of sleep like a badge of honor—and that’s a problem.
4. Stress management. Eliminating stress isn’t realistic—but managing it is essential. Simple options include meditation, breathwork, Tai Chi, or even listening to calming or chakra-based music.
Before jumping straight to GLP-1s, Metformin, or other pharmaceuticals, consider lifestyle changes rst—or alongside medication. is is also a great opportunity to work with a Health & Wellness Coach who can guide you through sustainable changes.
In today’s world, technology can play a big role in managing or preventing diabetes. Glucose monitors are moderately priced and incredibly helpful. Testing at home gives you immediate insight. If you go this route, I recommend a device like Keto-Mojo, which measures both glucose (blood sugar) and ketones (fat-burning state).
CGMs (Continuous Glucose Monitors) provide real-time feedback throughout the day. I love these because they help you understand the direct relationship between food and blood sugar.
If you’re diagnosed with prediabetes or diabetes, you may be able to work with your doctor to have a CGM covered by insurance. is is a very simplistic view of diabetes, along with some simple lifestyle guidelines. Each person is bio-individual and that needs to be considered.
As a Certi ed Prediabetes Lifestyle Coach and Health & Wellness Coach, I work with individuals every day who are navigating prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes—or who want to prevent it altogether. I help my clients understand their numbers, create realistic nutrition and movement/exercise strategies, improve sleep and stress management, and build sustainable habits that actually t their lives.
So, whether you’re newly diagnosed, feeling overwhelmed, or simply want to take back control of your health, you don’t have to do it alone. With the right guidance, education, and support, meaningful lasting change is possible—one informed, intentional step at a time.
From my website, join my Triple E weekly newsletter for weekly health and
Join us for Strength Training Classes 3 times per week on Mondays & Fridays at 9:30am, and Wednesday evenings at 7pm. Get $20 O an 8 Session Personal Training Package for the New Year! See website for details - https://beginlifeanew. com/group-fitness-classes/ or call 303.828.2856 for more info. Tracy Hites, NASM Certi ed Personal Trainer, Orthopedic & Arthritis Fitness Specialist, Corrective Exercise Specialist. Pet Sitting
I’m Donna Calabrese with A Breeze Pet Friends..I am here to help you with any of your Pet care needs...I do in your home Pet sitting...daily dog walking..I care for all farm animals...I am fully Insured and Bonded with a pet CPR cert. Please call or text me at 720 879 1423 or email abreezepets@yahoo.com
Safety Corner- Heating Safety Tips
Via Mobility Services
Frederick seniors (60+) and people with special abilities can ride free with Via Mobility Services, a customer-focused transportation program that helps those unable to drive due to age, health, disability, or income stay connected and independent. Service runs Monday through Friday, 8 am to 3 pm, with rides available within Frederick, Firestone, Dacono, Boulder, Longmont, Louisville, and Lafayette (some routes are limited to speci c days). Registration is required before your rst ride. Contact a Via Mobility Specialist by calling 303-444-3043.
BPRC Upcoming Events
SAVE the DATES:
BENEFIT CONCERT for BPRC - FEBRUARY 21st ,2026 7:30 Pm University Lutheran Chaple- with students from the CU BOULDER COLLEGE OF MUSIC
https://youtu.be/w9g9wOl7OPU?si=xhfXaKrKrTHYYEZA
BPRC GOLF BENEFIT at TOPGOLF in ornton ~ SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2026
ank you for letting your LIGHT shine for those facing reproductive decisions with your prayers and support. We are grateful for each of you for “Making A Di erence for LIFE.” Arise Shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. Isaiah 60:1 Donate online at: Support Our Work - Boulder Pregnancy Resource Center
We’ve been enjoying mild Colorado weather the last couple of months, but as temperatures drop, heaters, replaces, and wood stoves will be in use more often. It’s important to remember that home heating equipment can pose serious re risks if not used properly. Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home res during the winter months, but many of these incidents are preventable. Please take a moment to review these Heating Safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association to help keep you and your family warm — and safe — all season long.
‘Tis the (Legislative) Season
By Jennifer Finch, Public Information Officer
Oil and gas drilling rig in Colorado with the sun setting over the mountains.
Seasons. While there are four universally recognized seasons — winter, spring, summer, and fall — county government typically experiences three: construction season, budget season, and, of course, legislative season.
Colorado’s 2026 legislative session kicked o last week and will run until May 13. at’s a lot of time to introduce a lot of bills that will have a lot of impact on Weld County residents.
As Gov. Polis heads into his last year and the state is looking at a huge budget de cit (estimated at more than $800 million), the public should expect bills and discussions that could include the state cutting programs, adding “fees” to services, and challenging local control.
Energy
For years, Weld County Commissioners have taken proactive involvement on bills aimed at further regulating the energy industry, speci cally oil and gas.
In fact, the passage in 2019 of Senate Bill 181 (which changed the mission of the Colorado Oil and & Gas Conservation Commission from one of fostering oil and gas development in the state to one of regulating that development) led to the creation of the county’s oil and gas energy department, allowing the county to continue to have proactive say in the development and support of those energy resources.
Today, the board of commissioners continues to advocate for responsible and reasonable energy production, including testifying in support of House Bill 25-1040, which added nuclear energy as a clean energy resource.
In 2026, the county expects the state to move forward with a renewable energy siting bill, which likely will aim to put siting authority for things such as wind, solar, storage, and transmission projects with the state rather than with the local government entity.
As a strong and vocal proponent of local authority, expect the commissioners to testify in support of maintaining local control in every way possible, as they vehemently believe the best decisions for county residents are made at the county level.
A screen capture of the air.weld.gov website that reads “We all want clean air: Weld County Colorado; Weld County Air Quality Air
Often tied with energy production regulations are air quality regulations, another topic the commissioners watch vigilantly. In fact, Weld County sta from various departments, including the health department, the oil and gas energy department, and the county attorney’s o ce, participate regularly in various discussions and policy groups to ensure Weld County’s voice is heard, and local government has a seat at the table when decisions are made.
Since installing three air quality monitoring towers across the county in 2020, Weld County has collected and shared valuable ozone and meteorological data to help policymakers make data-driven decisions before creating regulations that can bring harm to local businesses, including those in our farming and ranching communities. e county expects to see more bills looking to further regulate emissions from vehicles of all types in an e ort to encourage more transit options for urban areas. It is important to watch these bills and discussions, as what works for the metro area likely won’t work in a more rural county such as Weld. As with many bills that come through the legislature, a one-size- ts-all approach rarely works.
Technology
Arti cial Intelligence and data centers are likely to be points of interest in upcoming proposed bills. Commissioners will be monitoring those initiatives closely as they will continue to advocate that siting and zoning should remain at the local level, and restrictions must balance opportunity. With companies eyeing Weld County as a possible location for data centers, the board wants to balance responsible implementation of these businesses with economic opportunity for residents.
A pivot sprinkler over a eld.
Agriculture
On the agricultural front, possible legislation to restrict the ability for farmers to use coated seeds will be on the county’s radar, as will any legislation that aims to ban or restrict certain rodenticides — again, looking to maintain local control and warn against any “what’s good for Denver is good for everywhere” approach to bill creation and passage.
It’s a lot to keep up with, and the pace will be frantic as hundreds of bills will be proposed, debated, and passed this session. To help individuals stay informed on the proposed legislation the county is monitoring, supporting, or opposing, residents are encouraged to visit the county’s legislative webpage at www.weld.gov/go/legislation. Each week, after commissioners and sta meet to review the latest list of proposed bills, the webpage is updated, and links are provided to the bill language so residents can access the information easily.
And if you are wondering what one gets another for legislative season, it’s simple: involvement in the process, a voice that is heard, and action when needed. All that and maybe scissors, to help cut any red tape.
Have a Booth at the Fair
Calling all nonpro ts and service organizations! If your mission depends on volunteers, we want you at the 2026 Carbon Valley Volunteer Fair. We are o ering free booth space for nonpro ts seeking year-round volunteers. Connect with residents eager to share their time, skills, and passion to support meaningful work across Carbon Valley.
Event date is Saturday, February 7, 2026. Fair is open to the public from 10 am to 1 pm
Reserve your booth by emailing our Communications & Engagement team!
Whether you serve youth, families, the environment, animals, or the broader community, this fair is your chance to showcase your mission, recruit new volunteers, and build lasting connections. Don’t miss it!
Frederick Scholarship Program
e Town of Frederick is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 Frederick Scholarship Program, which supports graduating high school seniors in Frederick. e scholarship awards $2,000 per year, for up to four years, with funds paid directly to the student’s school. New this year, there are two application paths. Students attending St. Vrain Valley School District (SVVSD) high schools will apply through the St. Vrain Valley Schools Foundation, while students attending other accredited Colorado high schools or homeschool programs will apply through the Town of Frederick application. Both applications are available on the Town’s Scholarship Program webpage.
Deadlines: Non-SVVSD student nominations due February 25, 2026
All applications due March 4, 2026
Learn more and apply: Scholarship Program webpage.
Obituaries&MEMORIALS
Obituaries, Memorial Messages & photos are always FREE in our publications~ Please tell the funeral home to send obituary to us or you can e-mail to carbonvalley@gmail.com. Because we are a monthly paper, most funeral dates will be past. You may post funeral service information at www.facebook.com/CarbonValleyConsumerReport and we will share with the community AND we will post as well in order to reach community.
Free Tax Assistance and E-filing at Aims Community College Begins in February
Aims Community College o ers free tax preparation and e- ling assistance through the Tax Help Colorado program. Individuals and households with annual incomes of less than $70,000 in 2025 can participate at no cost and receive assistance from IRS-certi ed Aims students and community volunteers.
No appointment is required. Sites are operated on a rst-come- rst-served basis.
ere are three Aims locations ready to assist you:
Fort Lupton Campus - Prairie Building | Fridays | February 6 - March 6 | 9 a.m. - 2
p.m.
Participants should bring the following documents to the tax preparation events:
All W-2, 1099 and other income forms.
Mortgage interest, daycare payments, college education expenses, charitable contributions, and any other tax-deductible expenses.
Social Security cards or ITIN documents for all family members and a photo ID for the taxpayer
Bank account number and routing number for direct deposit.
Previous year’s tax return, if available.
In addition to providing community tax preparation services, Tax Help Colorado o ers Aims students seeking careers in accounting and bookkeeping more training and experience before entering the workforce. Each fall, Aims students who volunteer with the program take a course that covers fundamental law and tax preparation. Students then take an IRS VITA exam that certi es them to prepare tax returns for others. ey are then ready to assist the community with tax preparation in the spring.
Last year, Aims assisted 1,990 taxpayers and helped them receive more than $4.9 million in federal and state refunds. Learn more about Tax Help at Aims, aims.co/tax-help
Tax Help Colorado is a nonpro t organization funded by Mile High United Way. e program operates more than 35 sites across Colorado. For more information about the statewide program, visit taxhelpco.org or call 211.
About Aims Community College
Aims Community College is one of the most progressive two-year colleges in Colorado. Founded more than 50 years ago in Greeley, Aims has since established locations in Fort Lupton, Loveland and Windsor. Curriculum now includes 4,000 day, evening, weekend and online courses annually in more than 200 degree and certi cate programs. Aims Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Aims Community College is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution. aims.edu
Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Abundant Life Church | Pastor Jim Coleman 4380 CO-66 | Longmont 80504
970.535.0311 | www.alcworshipwarriors.org
New Horizons Christian Church 701 Carbondale St. | Dacono Pastor Rob Thomas 303.833.3013 | www. NHCC.LIFE
L.I.F.E. Fellowship Frederick 451 Oak Street | Frederick Pastor Brady Thornton
303.304.1159 | www.lifefrederick.org
Rocky Mountain Christian Church
5860 Majestic Street | Frederick Pastor Matt Cote
303.652.2211 | www.rmcc.org
Carbon Valley Church of Christ
Thunder Valley K-8 in Frederick Pastor Clayton Johnson
720.438.5430 | www.carbonvalley.church
RINN United Methodist Church
Rev. Lin Cheek, Pastor 3783 Bella Rosa Pkwy | Frederick
303.776.1578 | www.rinnumc.org
Destiny Church | Pastor Rob Rocca 307 S Fulton Avenue | Ft Lupton www.yourdestinychurch.org
Purpose Church | Pastor Brian Thompson 9993 Cty Rd 11 | Firestone
303.651.1640 | www.purpose.church
Guardian Angels Catholic Church
109 S. 3rd St. | Mead Rev. Ronald Cattany, KHS 970.535.0721 | www.meadangels.org
Frontier Church-Carbon Valley
701 Carbondale St. | Dacono
Pastor Steve Osborn
720.418.8400 | www.frontierchurchcv.org
St. Theresa Catholic Church 5503 Bella Rosa Pkwy | Longmont Father Hernan Florez Albarracin 303.833.2966 | https://www.sttheresafred.org/
Calvary Chapel Carbon Valley Frederick, Colorado
Pastor Joe Kitto
720.201.3337 | www.calvarycarbonvalley.church
Flatirons Church | Pastor Jim Burgen 355 W South Boulder Rd | Lafayette 303.664.5524 | www.flatironschurch.com
White Fields Community Church 2950 Colorful Ave. | Longmont
Pastor Nick Cady
303.775.3485 | www.whitefieldschurch.com
Carbon Valley Lutheran Church 10916 Cimarron St (behind Ziggis) | Firestone 720.745.8590 | www.carbonchurch.com
Tri Town Baptist Church
420 Johnson Street | Frederick 303-833-2826 | www.tritownbaptist.com
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church
650 S. Park Ave. | Ft. Lupton, CO. 80621 303-857-6827 | www.mtcalvaryluth.org
Mead United Methodist Church 511 Palmer Ave | Mead 80542 970.535.4249 | Pastor Kay Marsh
St. Brigit
110
Street | Frederick 720.208.0280 | www.stbrigit.org
Colorado DMV Announces Major Digital Upgrade
Get ready for a simpler, faster, and more secure way to handle your DMV needs e Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is launching a major digital transformation in February 2026, upgrading its driver license and motor vehicle technology system, including the public e-services platform, myDMV. is initiative represents more than a system upgrade; it is a commitment to improving the customer experience. e upgrade will replace an outdated system with a modern platform designed to enhance how residents interact with the DMV regarding their driver and vehicle needs.
Once the new system is fully implemented, Colorado residents can expect a streamlined experience featuring more user-friendly online e-services and a secure, logged-in customer portal. is portal will allow residents to enroll in electronic communications, including courtesy vehicle renewal noti cations, ensuring timely updates for important deadlines.
“ is Upgrade will not only modernize our back end system with better security and functionality for sta and county sta , it will be a win for our customers giving them a better customer experience with our online services and an opportunity to have their own logged-in account to track both their driver and vehicle accounts,” Colorado DMV Senior Director Electra Bustle said. “We are incredibly excited for our residents to experience the more modern, secure, and user-friendly system coming in February.”
To make this change, the DMV has scheduled temporary but necessary service closures. Coloradans should take note of the following timeline:
Tuesday, February 10 (11:59 p.m.): Driver license online services - renewal, upgrade, downgrade - will be unavailable.
Friday, February 13: Scheduled appointments not available at state DMV o ces after 3 p.m. All other DMV online services and CO MV Express kiosks transactions will be unavailable after 7 p.m.
Monday, February 16: e system upgrade is complete.
Tuesday, February 17: DMV online services and CO MV Express kiosk transactions re-launch. Scheduled appointments not available at state DMV o ces.
is brief adjustment period is essential for the agency to roll out and verify that the new systems are functioning correctly. Residents planning to visit a county location are encouraged to check their local County Clerk & Recorder websites, as each county will manage its own post-upgrade o ce availability schedule.
e DMV encourages customers to complete driver and vehicle transactions early to avoid delays. Residents are urged to handle outstanding tasks—such as renewing vehicle registrations or driver licenses—online now at mydmv.colorado.gov
For those requiring an in-person visit to a state driver license o ce, appointments should be made via the DMV’s appointment scheduler. Some rst-time applicant appointments remain available on Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Westgate Driver License O ce, 3265 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Lakewood.
e DMV appreciates the community’s patience during this brief transition as the agency prepares to deliver superior service for years to come. To learn more about the upgrade, please visit dmv.colorado.gov/mydmv
###
About the Colorado DMV
e Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is committed to promoting public safety, trust, and con dence by providing customer-focused driver license and motor vehicle services. With a vision to enhance the quality of life for all Coloradans, the DMV strives to deliver exemplary service, ensuring a smooth and e cient experience for every customer. Visit DMV.Colorado.gov to learn more.
Vendor, Food Truck Applications For Weld County Fair Now Available
Weld County, CO - e Weld County Fair is excited to announce vendor applications are now open for the 2026 Weld County Fair. e fair will take place July 18 through July 27, with a few special events throughout, at Island Grove Regional Park.
Vendors are invited to showcase their products, services, and delicious food and drink to the thousands of fairgoers and special event enthusiasts expected to attend this years’ shows and community events.
is year’s fair promises a variety of exciting events, shows, and family-friendly activities. As part of this annual tradition, the fair o ers local and regional vendors a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse audience and be part of an exciting community event.
Vendor application details:
Application deadline: Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Location: Island Grove Regional Park, 501 N. 14th Avenue, Greeley
Vendor dates: Wednesday, July 22 to Sunday, July 26, 2026
Interested vendors and food truck operators are encouraged to submit applications early as space is limited. e selection committee makes every attempt to assure that vendors have a worthwhile experience, and that fairgoers have a variety of dining and shopping options.
“We’re thrilled to once again collaborate with community partners to bring Weld County together for the 107th Weld County Fair”, said Fair Coordinator Mikayla Gabel. “ is is a fantastic opportunity for vendors to be part of a fun, family-oriented event that brings people together and celebrates everything that makes Weld County strong and special.”
For more information about vendor applications, booth availability, vendor rules, and events visit the Weld County Fair Vendors webpage
Powering the Local community
Keep Your Home Warm This Winter
If you or someone you know is struggling with winter heating costs, the Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) can help. LEAP is a federally funded program that provides eligible Colorado families, older adults, and individuals with nancial support to pay a portion of their winter home heating bills.
Assistance may also be available for heating system repair or replacement — helping keep your home safe and comfortable during the cold months.
You can apply for LEAP between November 1 and April 30 each year through the Colorado PEAK website. If you need help applying, call the HEAT HELP line at 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435) to request an application by mail or email, or visit your county human services o ce.
Don’t wait — heating assistance can make a real di erence for you and your neighbors this season!
isn’t just where we are. It’s who we are. It’s neighbors helping neighbors and communities powered with a shared purpose
