fbpx

The I-70 Scout & Eastern Colorado News

Category: Colorado News

  • CO unemployment rate rises to 4.5%

    Important note: This release provides information on industry employment and labor force statistics for March 2020, the most current estimates available from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. The reference period for the establishment and household surveys was the pay period or week that includes the 12th of the month. Therefore, this release provides an initial estimate of Colorado’s employment situation during the first stages of the COVID-19 outbreak within the state. For information on Colorado unemployment insurance claims activity and related statistics, please visit www.colmigateway.com.

    Non-farm payroll jobs in Colorado declined by 3,900 from February to March to 2,809,500 jobs, according to the survey of business establishments. Government added 2,100 payroll jobs and the private sector lost 6,000. February estimates were revised down to 2,813,400, and the over the month change from January to February was a decrease of 400 rather than the originally estimated increase of 3,100.

    According to the survey of households, the unemployment rate increased two percentage points in March to 4.5 percent. This is Colorado’s highest unemployment rate since August 2015.

    The number of people actively participating in the labor force decreased 45,600 over the month to 3,140,700 and the number of people reporting themselves as employed decreased 107,900 to 2,998,100. The larger decrease in total employment than in labor force caused the number of unemployed to increase 62,300 and the unemployment rate to increase to 4.5 percent.  The national unemployment rate increased nine-tenths of a percentage point in March to 4.4 percent. June 2005 marked the last time Colorado’s monthly unemployment rate exceeded the U.S. rate.

    Over the year, the average workweek for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls increased from 32.6 to 33.4 hours and average hourly earnings increased from $30.26 to $30.94.

    The largest over the month private sector job gain was in professional and business services. Significant over the month declines occurred in education and health services, leisure and hospitality, manufacturing, trade, transportation, and utilities, and other services.

    Over the year, nonfarm payroll jobs increased 43,900, with an increase of 30,900 in the private sector and an increase of 13,000 in government. The largest private sector job gains were in professional and business services, education and health services, and trade, transportation, and utilities. Mining and logging declined over the year.

    Over the year, the unemployment rate is up one and five-tenths of a percentage point from 3.0 percent. The number of Coloradans participating in the labor force increased 17,300, total employment decreased 31,700 and the number of unemployed increased 49,000. The national unemployment rate increased from 3.8 percent in March 2019 to 4.4 percent in March 2020.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Pence going to Colorado for Air Force Academy graduation

    Pence going to Colorado for Air Force Academy graduation

    Vice President Mike Pence will travel to the Air Force Academy for its pared down commencement ceremony Saturday to address graduating cadets in person, not by video as originally planned.

    Pence’s office announced his travel plans Tuesday and said additional details would be released later.

    The event usually attracts a big crowd to Falcon Stadium and ends with a traditional aerobatics demonstration by the Air Force Thunderbirds. Because of the coronavirus outbreak, the academy is closed to visitors and no spectators, including family, will be allowed at this year’s ceremony, which will only last about 30 minutes.

    The Thunderbirds will only perform a flyover. Cadets will march 6 feet (1.8 meters) apart and sit 8 feet (2.4 meters) apart during the event.

    Cadets will not march up to receive their diplomas and the typical high-fives and hugs are banned, The Gazette reported.

    Lower classes were sent home to take online classes because of the outbreak. Seniors remained but the date of their graduation was moved up.

    The academy initially announced last week that Secretary of the Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett would address the cadets in person and that there would be a video message from Pence.

     

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Arapahoe County Fairgrounds transformed to alternate care medical facility

    Arapahoe County Fairgrounds transformed to alternate care medical facility

    Littleton, CO—April 15, 2020—The Arapahoe County Fairgrounds have been converted to a tier 4 alternate care facility for COVID-19 patients to help alleviate crowding at regional hospitals. The temporary facility will host cases that don’t require acute or critical care. Upon opening, the site can hold 54 individuals and can increase capacity up to 150 if the need arises. The medical shelter is the product of a multi-agency response team that completed the transformation in a matter of days with the help of the Colorado National Guard.

     The alternate care facility does not accept walk-up patients and is not a hospital. Rather, the facility operates as a medical shelter and is best suited for those patients who are ready to return to their original housing situation but are unable to do so because of their circumstances. Local hospitals will make direct referrals for guests to the facility. The temporary alternate care facility is being managed by the Arapahoe County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), with paramedics and medical students providing care and observation for recovering guests.

     “We are grateful to have the expertise and resources to provide this much-needed facility for Arapahoe County,” said Nancy Sharpe, chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “Reducing patient loads on our hospitals means that those who need critical care can get it, and the temporary facility will provide observation and care for individuals recovering from the disease.”

     The Emergency Operations Center—which operates under the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office—is managing the County’s response to the pandemic, working in partnership with the Board of County Commissioners, Tri-County Health Department, state and local officials. The EOC coordinates resources, implements emergency operations and handles logistics support for law enforcement and municipalities across the County.

     Building on established emergency plans, the EOC outfitted the facility, relocating existing supplies such as durable medical equipment and beds from across the County. Local municipalities and nonprofits also donated to support the facility, including use of a shower trailer donated by the nonprofit Aurora Warms the Night. The EOC also finalized contracts with local businesses for feeding, linens, sanitizer stations, janitorial services and security.

     Assisting with the transformation of the site was the South Metro Fire District, Sable Altura Fire Department, the Colorado National Guard, Xcel Energy, Rocky Vista University and Concorde Career College. “Arapahoe County is fortunate to have amazing partnerships in place to assist with our COVID-19 response. The skill, ability, and resourcefulness of our partners allowed us to convert this building to an alternate care facility in record time,” said Nate Fogg, the County’s emergency manager. “Their contributions are monumental and important for our efforts to maintain the health and safety of all Arapahoe County citizens.” 

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Bennet, Colleagues Call for Increased Lifeline Funding to Keep Americans Connected During Pandemic

    Bennet, Colleagues Call for Increased Lifeline Funding to Keep Americans Connected During Pandemic

    Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined 26 senators in calling on Congressional leadership to commit at least $1 billion in funding for the Lifeline program in future Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) relief in order to meet the connectivity needs of Americans. Since 1985, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s Lifeline program has made basic internet and telephone service more affordable for low-income Americans.

     “The Coronavirus and resulting public safety measures taken by states, municipalities, and vigilant citizens are a resounding demonstration of the importance of Lifeline and other FCC universal service programs,” wrote Bennet and the senators in the letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). “Already, Lifeline provides millions of Americans with essential connections by providing free or discounted broadband and voice services. This meaningful assistance is needed now more than ever. Social distancing, school closures, layoffs, and shelter-in-place rules have spurred a dramatic new reliance on telework, distance education, online employment, and telehealth. No one should have to put their health at risk, lose employment, lose access to education, or face isolation because they cannot afford broadband.”

     With tens of millions of Americans now working from home, attending school virtually, and using telehealth services, Bennet and the senators emphasized the critical need for additional funding to improve the program’s level of service, to expand the choice of eligible broadband providers, and to meet surging demand.

     Recently, Bennet and his colleagues wrote letters to both the Federal Communications Commission and Senate leaders calling for immediate action to help students access the technology they need to learn remotely. In March, Bennet and his colleagues also wrote to the Federal Communications Commission to ensure Americans are not disconnected from the Lifeline program during the coronavirus outbreak. Bennet also called on the nation’s top internet service providers to take extraordinary measures to maintain and expand online connectivity during the pandemic for students and families. 

     In addition to Bennet, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Ben Cardin (D-Md.).

     The text of the letter is available HERE and below.  

     Dear Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer, and Leader McCarthy:

    We write to urge you to consider the pressing needs of the Lifeline assistance program during the Coronavirus pandemic in any future relief package. As Americans face new financial hardships, turn to distance learning, attend religious services virtually, and are required to telework, access to fast, robust, and reliable home internet and telephone services is essential for their economic, social, and civic wellbeing. Congress should provide the dedicated funding necessary to meet the urgent increase in demand for Lifeline assistance and keep tens of millions of Americans connected.

     The Coronavirus and resulting public safety measures taken by states, municipalities, and vigilant citizens are a resounding demonstration of the importance of Lifeline and other FCC universal service programs. Already, Lifeline provides millions of Americans with essential connections by providing free or discounted broadband and voice services. This meaningful assistance is needed now more than ever. Social distancing, school closures, layoffs, and shelter-in-place rules have spurred a dramatic new reliance on telework, distance education, online employment, and telehealth. No one should have to put their health at risk, lose employment, lose access to education, or face isolation because they cannot afford broadband.

     We request that you include at least $1 billion in funding for the Lifeline program in order to meet the fundamental connectivity needs of tens of millions of Americans. Currently, the FCC sets a minimum Lifeline service standard for mobile carriers of 1,000 voice minutes and 3 Gb of data on 3G connections – service plans that resemble 2010, not 2020. The current baseline is woefully insufficient to last a few days for students taking online courses or families using video chat services, let alone for a full month in times of isolation. Moreover, as physicians turn to telehealth to protect patients and ensure continued care, better access is becoming more important for more communities. Increased funding would allow for a better reimbursement rate and other support that would secure the levels of service needed for modern applications.

     Further funding would also enable the FCC to expand the choice of eligible broadband providers, at least on a temporary basis during this health crisis and the economic recovery from it. That should mean opening up the program to other broadband providers and also allowing for more mobile hotspot coverage. While Congress made some limited progress in securing funding to improve infrastructure for rural communities, including in the CARES package, affordable connections for urban and suburban communities have been left out of these efforts. For far too many the insurmountable barrier is price, not availability. By allowing Lifeline subscribers to take their discount to residential broadband providers and others, Congress could open up much-needed competition, providing choice and improving outcomes for subscribers.

     Finally, Lifeline will need to meet an anticipated surge of demand. With sudden business closures, reduced hours, and new financial pressures, millions more Americans will qualify for assistance and need this vital help. We are concerned that without the additional funding requested above, the Lifeline program does not have the financial resources to equitably support even a moderate but prolonged increase in demand, in response to an economic downturn. The FCC should also have resources necessary to advertise Lifeline, as well as exercise its authority to ensure Lifeline providers aggressively advertise their Lifeline offerings. Funding can also improve the application process, including better oversight of the program and, importantly, streamlining the application process for those falling on hard times. Americans must know that help is available and be able to access that assistance.

     We urge you to provide additional funding for the Lifeline program in any future Coronavirus relief packages to ensure that Americans can continue to depend on critical assistance when they need it. As our financial, educational, social, civic, and healthcare needs become more dependent on the internet during this crisis, Congress must commit to ensuring that no one loses connectivity. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

    image credit: MGN Online

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • CU Boulder inventories, donates 130,000 pieces of PPE for health care workers, first responders

    CU Boulder inventories, donates 130,000 pieces of PPE for health care workers, first responders

    A half-dozen volunteers outside of CU Boulder’s Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) building began piling a mountain of boxes into two pickup trucks and a moving truck Friday afternoon. 

    The load: a whole lot of help from nearly 40 campus units.

    Across the country, health care professionals have pleaded for necessary supplies to respond to a pandemic that’s far outstripping their resources. The shortfall of so-called personal protective equipment (PPE) has left those workers in danger of becoming ill from COVID-19 as they treat patients. A lack of testing or vaccine has resulted in a virtual shut down of communities in an effort to flatten the curve, or slow the spread of coronavirus as it spreads around the globe. 

    CU Boulder joined an array of relief and supply efforts last week with a donation of more than 130,000 pieces of PPE. Dozens of departments, units and labs across campus donated gloves, N-95 masks, face shields, shoe covers and other PPE.

    The donation went to the Boulder Office of Emergency Management (OEM), which will distribute the supplies to health care providers, long-term care facilities and first responders throughout the county.

    “These donations far exceeded my expectations,” said Garry DeJong, director of campus emergency management. “Coupled with our researchers and engineers working on ways to keep people safe and finding ways to fight COVID-19, CU Boulder is making a sizable impact in this historic moment.”

    PPE is regularly used throughout CU Boulder’s campus for research and other purposes from chemical labs to University Libraries.

    DeJong led the charge alongside EHS Director Brandon Boger. Their teams worked for weeks soliciting donations across campus and creating an inventory. The donations equate to roughly 98% of the campus’ PPE. The remainder is being reserved for campus health care providers and essential workers. In alignment with Centers for Disease Control guidance, workers whose job duties do not require an N-95 mask are encouraged to wear homemade cloth masks.

    “We were hoping for five to ten departments to donate a few items,” said DeJong. 

    “Once the word got out about the donations drive, the CU partners just continually kept stepping up.”

    Mike Chard, director of the Boulder Office of Emergency Management, said he was extremely grateful.

    “The COVID-19 pandemic has created tremendous pressure on our health care systems, long-term care facilities and first responders,” Chard said. “Being able to keep the supply of medical and PPE at an essential service level preserves health care and government services and protects staff.”

    Margie Hunter, assistant to the director of EHS, was involved in coordinating and documenting the campus donations. Hunter and a small group of coworkers watched as emails rolled in from departments around campus looking to put their PPE to good use.

    “I think we all want to step up when a crisis occurs, but don’t always know what to do to help,” Hunter said. “I feel that this process gave each of us that measure of satisfaction and gratitude that we were doing something that would make a difference for those first responders and the medical personnel who are facing this thing firsthand.”

    Broader efforts

    Other faculty, staff and students have jumped into the fight as well. 

    Engineering faculty and students are 3D-printing key parts of protective face shields.

    Daniel Larremore, an assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science and in the BioFrontiers Institute, is using Facebook data to track the virus’ spread, and perhaps predict where it could go in the coming weeks.

    The BioFrontiers Institute, the College of Engineering & Applied Science, the Sustainability, Energy & Environment Lab (SEEL) and other campus units also worked in the early stages of the pandemic to get respirators, sterilization ovens and other PPE to Boulder County Health officials.

    Community needs

    For students, faculty, staff and friends of CU Boulder looking to donate or give back to the community, you can find more via the new Buffs Together initiative.

    The state is organizing giving and volunteer opportunities through Help Colorado Now.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Construction firm settles Denver center bid-rigging claims

    Construction firm settles Denver center bid-rigging claims

    DENVER — A construction company settled bid-rigging claims in a Denver convention center expansion project with a promise of a state payment and a component aimed at helping the response to the coronavirus pandemic, the state attorney general said Monday.

    Mortenson Construction is expected to pay $650,000 to the state and has agreed to donate construction services on a yet-to-be-determined project related to COVID-19, The Denver Post reports.

    Mortenson’s donated work and materials must be worth at least the same amount as the fine, making the antitrust settlement’s value at least $1.3 million.

    Attorney General Phil Weiser announced the first major resolution in Denver’s bidding scandal in a statement Monday.

    The city halted its planned $233 million rooftop expansion project at the Colorado Convention Center in December 2018 when Denver Mayor Michael Hancock announced officials had fired project management firm Trammell Crow Co.

    Hancock cited evidence that Trammell Crow shared project-related information improperly with Mortenson, one of three bidders. Minneapolis-based Mortenson denied the allegations but President and CEO Dan Johnson acknowledged the company “did not meet our own expectations.”

    The firm resolved the convention center claim “without adjudication or finding of liability,” but Mortenson’s involvement ” was neither consistent with who we are as a company nor our longstanding reputation,” Johnson said Monday.

    The company agreed in a separate settlement with Denver in July that it would not bid on any city projects until at least March 2021, but the attorney general’s office continued with criminal and civil investigations.

    The investigation of Dallas-based Trammell Crow is ongoing, Weiser’s office said.

    “The silver lining is Coloradans will benefit from additional resources to respond to needs we have from the COVID-19 pandemic in our state,” Weiser said.

    For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Bennet, Colleagues Urge Support for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

    Bennet, Colleagues Urge Support for Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

    Denver – Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined a bipartisan group of 41 senators in a letter to Senate leaders requesting that any future legislation to address the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis includes support for victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. In the letter, Bennet and the senators express concern over reports from service providers stating that abusers are using the crisis to isolate their victims, withhold financial resources, and refuse medical aid. In addition, rape crisis centers are seeing an increased need for services and many local law enforcement agencies are receiving an increased number of domestic violence-related calls.

     “We appreciate that the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided $45 million for domestic violence services funded through the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act and $2 million for the National Domestic Violence Hotline,” wrote Bennet and his colleagues. “While this funding provides critical resources, the legislation did not include any additional support for sexual assault or domestic violence-related programs funded through the Department of Justice. These programs deliver essential support that is particularly needed at this time, including support for sexual assault service providers, law enforcement, and transitional housing programs, as well as for organizations that address the needs of communities of color and underserved populations.”

     Bennet also joined his colleagues in a letter of support for domestic violence programs authorized by the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act at the Department of Health and Human Services.

     In addition to Bennet, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Bob Casey Jr. (D-Pa.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.),  Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

    The letter is supported by leading organizations, including Break the Cycle; National Alliance to End Sexual Violence; National Coalition Against Domestic Violence; National Domestic Violence Hotline; and more. 

     The text of the letter is available HERE and below. 

     Dear Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer, Chairman Shelby, and Vice Chairman Leahy:

     We write to respectfully request that any future legislation to address the ongoing coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) provides funding to support victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, including through programs authorized by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). At a time when people who experience domestic violence are at increased risk, and requests for sexual assault and domestic violence-related services have sharply increased, additional funding for these programs is critical.

     On Sunday, April 5, 2020, the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for governments around the world to help address the “horrifying global surge in domestic violence” by making services for victims and survivors a “key part of their national response plans for COVID-19.” The United States must demonstrate leadership in this effort by continuing to provide the additional resources needed to support at-risk families and children. 

     Historically, instances of domestic violence have increased in times of national crisis—and this crisis may be particularly dangerous for people who experience domestic violence. Following the urging of public health officials, approximately 95% of Americans are now living under a stay-at-home order to help prevent the spread of the virus.  But for many, home is not a safe place. Reports suggest that abusers are using COVID-19 to isolate their victims, withhold financial resources, and refuse medical aid.  Rape crisis centers are seeing increased need for services and are confronting complex and difficult requests.  And in communities across the country, local law enforcement agencies are receiving an increased number of domestic violence-related calls.  

     Domestic violence service providers across the country are facing funding and staffing challenges related to the pandemic and have seen an increased need for services including crisis intervention, shelter and transitional housing, and legal assistance. Rape crisis centers need funding to shift their services from in-person to virtual and meet the emergency needs of survivors. This strain on resources is expected to disproportionally impact traditionally underserved populations such as black and Latino communities as well as people who live in rural areas.

     American Indian and Alaska Native communities in particular face disparities in shelter capacity and resources that have been exacerbated by the virus, and many of these communities already experience overcrowding in homes and a lack of sanitation services. We ask that Tribal sovereignty is acknowledged and that the federal government fulfill its trust responsibility to Indian Tribes by providing equitable resources to American Indian and Alaska Native communities to address domestic violence. Shelters and Tribal advocacy programs are often all that stand between safety and Native women going missing and/or murdered (MMIW). In addition, because many rural Tribal communities lack the necessary infrastructure to take advantage of internet-based options, we ask that there be outreach to these communities whether from the federal departments or through enlistment of technical advisers who have established relationships with many of these communities.

     We appreciate that the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided $45 million for domestic violence services funded through the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act and $2 million for the National Domestic Violence Hotline. While this funding provides critical resources, the legislation did not include any additional support for sexual assault or domestic violence-related programs funded through the Department of Justice. These programs deliver essential support that is particularly needed at this time, including support for sexual assault service providers, law enforcement, and transitional housing programs, as well as for organizations that address the needs of communities of color and underserved populations. 

     Therefore, we respectfully request that any future legislation to address COVID-19 include the following:

     Support through the Department of Justice

    • At least $100 million for the Sexual Assault Service Program;
    • At least $225 million for VAWA STOP Grants with a priority on flexible funding for victim service providers, with at least 20 percent of the funding for eligible entities under 34 U.S.C. § 20124(c) and equitable distribution of funding between services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault;
    • At least $10 million for Grants for Outreach and Services to Underserved Populations; and,
    • At least $40 million to VAWA Transitional Housing Assistance Grants.
    • We also request that the matching fund requirements for the Victims of Crime Act grants be waived during this crisis to more quickly meet survivors’ needs.

     Set-aside assistance for Tribes and Tribal Organizations

    • VAWA programs:
      • $22.5 million for grants to Tribal governments;
      • $10 million to Tribes under the Sexual Assault Services Program;
      • $3 million to Tribal jurisdiction; and
      • $3 million to Tribal coalitions.
    • Office of Victims of Crime:  $16,765,000 additional set aside for Tribal governments.

     As we work together to address the health, wellness, and economic security of all Americans, we urge you to support victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Thank you for your attention to this important matter and your consideration of this request.

     Sincerely,

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • State activates new crisis standards for emergency medical services and personal protective equipment

    The Chief Medical Officer for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment activated new crisis standards for emergency medical services and personal protective equipment earlier this week to help health care providers make decisions when responding to COVID-19. These standards are specific to the COVID-19 response. 

    The state has not enacted crisis standards of care for hospitals, as ongoing physical distancing policies have helped delay the strain on hospitals. 

    The emergency medical services crisis standards outline recommendations for how dispatchers, emergency transport services, and first-responders operate. The personal protective equipment crisis standards outline recommendations on use of PPE and alternate equipment to provide some protection from disease transmission.

    With the activation of the emergency medical services and personal protective equipment crisis standards in Colorado, entities will then adopt the standard for their organization and should report this adoption to CDPHE by completing the Crisis Standards of Care Adoption Form.   

    “The activated crisis standards provide recommendations on the questions ambulance dispatchers should ask and the equipment first responders should wear  — among other recommendations. They also clarify which first responders go out when, minimizing the number of people who could be exposed to COVID-19, while still providing care to people in need,” said Dr. Eric France, chief medical officer, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. “The public can help preserve precious emergency resources by staying home, and only contacting 911 when it’s an emergency. We all play a role in slowing transmission of the virus and protecting the heroes on the frontlines.”

    The Governor’s Expert Emergency Epidemic Response Committee approved these crisis standards of care on April 5. Several sub-groups reviewed the content, and community feedback and engagement were considered throughout the process to update these recommendations.

    The complete crisis standards of care are available here. The state will continue to activate portions of the standards as the need becomes apparent.

    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Numerous staff and residents test positive for COVID-19 at Aurora nursing home

    Numerous staff and residents test positive for COVID-19 at Aurora nursing home

    (DENVER) April 11, 2020: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is coordinating with Tri-County Health Department to investigate an outbreak of COVID-19 infection at Juniper Village at Aurora. After learning that several staff had tested positive for the infection, the corporation decided to proactively test all staff and residents through a private lab. The lab confirmed that 33 of 46 residents and 16 of 25 staff members are positive for COVID-19. The facility has reported eight deaths, five of which have been confirmed as related to COVID-19. The coroner considers the remaining three deaths as probable cases of COVID-19.

    “We know that the populations in these facilities are among the most vulnerable and are at highest risk of severe illness from this virus,” said Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist, Colorado Dept. of Public Health and Environment. “The department is doing everything we can to be as transparent as possible regarding reported outbreaks to keep people safe while protecting  patient privacy. We continue to be aggressive in our recommendations to ensure the appropriate infection prevention measures are in place to slow and limit the spread of COVID-19 in these facilities.”

    The investigation at Juniper Village began on March 27 when epidemiologists from Tri-County Health Department notified CDPHE that their local investigations of positive COVID-19 cases included several health care workers from the facility. Since that time a team of infection preventionists and epidemiologists from both departments have conducted a number of virtual consultations with Juniper Village. The consultations have included assessing the facility’s current practices and providing technical assistance and support regarding infection prevention, use of personal protective equipment, and staffing recommendations. 

    In addition, a team from CDPHE’s Health Facilities Division conducted a site visit on April 2 after receiving a formal complaint regarding the facility’s infection prevention practices. The investigation is ongoing, and as is typical in these situations, could take several months to complete. CDPHE will continue to work with the facility to implement any necessary corrective measures. 

    “We are distressed by the outbreak of COVID-19 at the Juniper Village and the tragic loss of life and extend our deepest sympathy to the families who lost loved ones,” said John M. Douglas, Jr., MD, Executive Director of Tri-County Health Department. “COVID-19 can cause particularly severe illness in older adults, and we appreciate the support of CDPHE in strengthening steps to prevent further illness at this facility.”

    In a move intended to provide more insight into the extent of COVID-19 outbreaks statewide, on April 15 the department will begin releasing more details on confirmed outbreaks, including facility name, number of confirmed positive cases among staff and residents, and total confirmed deaths related to COVID-19. Information will be updated every Wednesday on the state’s COVID-19 website. 

    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

  • Help document nature in your area as part of global initiative: 2020 City Nature Challenge

    Help document nature in your area as part of global initiative: 2020 City Nature Challenge

    City Nature Challenge 2020 is an international effort to find and document plants and wildlife across the globe.

    DENVER – From April 24 through 27, Colorado residents are encouraged to go outside in their neighborhood to photograph and identify plants and animals using the free iNaturalist app as part of a global initiative called the City Nature Challenge.  

    City Nature Challenge 2020 is an international effort to find and document plants and wildlife across the globe. Cities are encouraging their citizens to get outside in whatever way is safe for each region and document the plants and animals in their surroundings. The City Nature Challenge is organized by the California Academy of Sciences and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.

    The City Nature Challenge and COVID-19

    In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City Nature Challenge has made some modifications to the annual event to help keep organizers and participants safe. Although it has been promoted as a friendly competition in previous years, this year it’s about embracing the healing power of nature. Participants should safely document biodiversity in whatever way they can, even from the safety of their own homes if necessary. Participants are urged to carefully follow public health guidelines provided by your local governments, as they are changing in real-time. Individual safety and public health is of utmost priority. 

    Citizen Science and the iNaturalist app

    To participate in this collaborative effort, download the free iNaturalist app, join the project, then get outside and start taking pictures of nature around you. By participating, you will be embracing the healing power of nature while also contributing crucial data about Colorado’s unique biodiversity. Scientists can then use this information to make important decisions about how to protect and improve Colorado’s nature.

    The iNaturalist app that people use to identify species during the City Nature Challenge has been part of Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s efforts to engage citizen scientists over the past few years.

    In just under four years, the app has documented more than 91,000 observations of nature in Colorado’s 41 state parks. The new technology is helping CPW biologists track the wildlife resources, and in some cases, even contributing toward furthering important research.

    From April 28 – May 3, users who identify photos of wildlife down to the species level will count toward the point tally.

    Colorado nonprofits and government agencies like Colorado Parks and Wildlife, The Nature Conservancy, the WILD Foundation, MetroDNA, Denver Botanical Gardens, and Denver Audubon all see the value in this effort to connect people to their environment and reap the benefits of crowd-sourced citizen science.

    “We have so much amazing nature in and around Denver, that we encourage people to explore their backyards and neighborhoods to discover incredible wildlife,” said Chris Hawkins, urban conservation program manager for The Nature Conservancy in Colorado. “Not only will participants be having fun outside, but they will also be making valuable scientific contributions that will help The Nature Conservancy as we work to create a thriving region for people and nature.”

    “As a mom of two young children who have now transitioned to online learning, I am so excited about the opportunity to engage them in a community science project that gets us outdoors in our own neighborhood,” said Kate Hogan of Denver Audubon. “The iNaturalist.org app is easy to use, and even my 4-year-old knows how to take pictures with my cell phone, so each one of us can be involved!”

    “The City Nature Challenge is an extraordinary opportunity for individuals to connect to the wild nature that surrounds them; something that is essential considering we live in this time of rapid human development, species extinction, and disconnection with nature,” said Melanie Hill, Director of Communications & Outreach at the WILD Foundation. “This event offers a fun and easy way for people of all ages to get to know these wild beings and understand not only what they need to survive, but thrive.”

    “Plant and wildlife enthusiasts from across the region can participate simply by staying at home and helping to identify species through the iNaturalist program,” said Jennifer Neale, Director of Research & Conservation for Denver Botanic Gardens. 

    “The City Nature Challenge offers Metro Denver residents, especially kids and families, a chance to get outdoors in a way that contributes not only to our shared knowledge of the region’s biodiversity but to their physical and mental health,” said Dana Coelho, Metro DNA Director and co-lead of Safe Summer Kick Off on Get Outdoors Day, a Southwest Denver-based partnership inspired by and connected to the statewide Get Outdoors Colorado coalition of partners.

    “At its core, it’s a citizen science project that is trying to engage as many people as possible to record the diversity of life wherever they happen to be,” said CPW Forest Management Coordinator Matt Schulz. “Anyone can participate with this challenge, just by observing what is outside their door, whether it’s the tree that lines your street or the bird stopping over to find a bit of food.”

    Colorado state parks are a great place to be outdoors, as well as a great place to participate in the City Nature Challenge. But please remember to only visit your neighborhood state parks consistent with public health recommendations. Colorado state parks within this year’s boundaries include: Barr Lake, Boyd Lake, Castlewood Canyon, Chatfield, Cherry Creek, Cheyenne Mountain, Eldorado Canyon,Golden Gate, Lory, Roxborough, St. Vrain and Staunton. 

    Check CPW’s City Nature Challenge page or the co-organizers page at www.wild.org/naturechallenge for updated information on the City Nature Challenge project.

    Details

    More information on the City Nature Challenge is available at: https://citynaturechallenge.org.

    For those interested in the Denver-Boulder Metro area: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2020-denver-boulder-metro-area

    For those interested in the Colorado Springs area: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2020-colorado-springs

    For those interested in the Fort Collins/Northern Colorado area: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2020-northern-colorado

    Stats from last year:

    Boulder-Denver Metro Area 2019:

    Total observations: 6,374

    Total observers: 433

    Species identified: 955

    Worldwide 2019

    Total observations: 963,000+

    Total observers: 35,000+

    Species identified: 31,000+

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US