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The I-70 Scout & Eastern Colorado News

Category: Local News

  • A Virtual Conversation with Commissioner Kathleen Conti: Sept. 10

     

    Join District 1 Arapahoe County Commissioner Kathleen Conti for a virtual event on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.

    This year has presented unique challenges, but the planning and management for critical services never stops. Commissioner Conti, with special guest, Bryan Weimer Director of Public Works and Development, will provide updates on recent and upcoming projects and initiatives that affect our diverse communities. 

    To join her for this informal conversation, at the time of the event, listen in and ask questions by:

     

     

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  • Town of Bennett approves temporary water restrictions

    BENNETT — The Town of Bennett Board of Trustees approved temporary mandatory residential and commercial water restrictions beginning Aug. 26 until Sept. 8.

    Due to an incident involving a recent power outage, some of the Town of Bennett water supply has been slightly interrupted. In order to alleviate pressure on the water system and to protect available and future water supply, the Board approved temporary water restrictions.

    The water restrictions limit residential and commercial irrigation of landscaped areas, including gardens, parks, right-of-way and medians, hose-end sprinklers and automatic irrigation to two days a week.

    • Even street addresses Monday and Thursday;

    • Odd street addresses Tuesday and Friday.

    Watering and irrigation may not occur between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and may not exceed four hours total. Hand watering is permitted on any day except between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Unattended hose watering is not permitted.

    Use of water to wash any motor vehicle, motorbike, boat, trailer or other vehicle is allowed on teh same designated days as irrigation except during the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Washing must be done with a hand-held bucket or a hand-held hose with a shut-off valve.

    The following uses of water are not permitted at any time during the restriction period:

    • Washing down any sidewalks, walkways, driveways, parking lots or other hard-surfaced areas.

    • Washing down buildings or structures for reasons other than immediate fire protection.

    • Flushing gutters or permitting water to run in any gutter or street.

    Failure to repair a controllable leak within a reasonable period after having been given a direct notice to repair the leak.

    Any person who is found to have violated these restrictions is subject to a fine.

    These restrictions will expire on Sept. 8. The Mayor and the Town Administrator may take action to extend or repeal the water restrictions during this time.

    More information can be found online at townofbennett.colorado.gov.

     

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  • Strasburg softball season-opener to be broadcast

    Strasburg softball season-opener to be broadcast

    For the Strasburg Lady Indians’ fans that are unable to attend today’s softball game at Sterling, it is being broadcast by KPMX radio and is available online at kpmx.com. The frequency for the radio station itself is FM 105.7.
     
    Today’s matchup is the season-opener and the first of 16 games against the Patriot League for both squads. This year’s softball schedule has been truncated because COVID-19, and no other games except conference games will be contested before this year’s 16-team state tournament on Oct. 10 at the Aurora Sports Complex.
  • Anythink Backyard Concert Series streams live on Aug. 14

    Anythink Backyard Concert Series streams live on Aug. 14

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    WHAT:           Anythink’s annual Backyard Concert Series returns for its final concert of the season on Aug. 10 with Hazel Miller & the Collective. Colorado music legend Hazel Miller returns for yet another powerhouse performance that will be hosted exclusively online. Those who tune in on Facebook and YouTube are encouraged to gather their blankets, lawn chairs, bubbles and all of the other provisions that make for a fun, at-home concert experience. Living room setups can be shared online using the #BCS2020 hashtag for an opportunity to be featured live during the show. The Backyard Concert Series is a fundraiser for the Anythink Foundation, and funds raise will help Anythink to provide special projects for the community. The performance is free and appropriate for all ages. Supporters are encouraged to donate online or text BACKYARD to 50155 to help the Anythink Foundation reach its $20,000 fundraising goal.   

                             

    WHEN:          Friday, Aug. 14, 6:30-8 pm  

     

    WHERE:          Stream live on Facebook at facebook.com/ilovemyanythink and YouTube at youtube.com/ilovemyanythink.  

                             

     About the Anythink Foundation 

    Formed in 2009, the Anythink Foundation is a 501(c)(3) developed to raise private funds 

    for Anythink Libraries in Adams County. This support helps the library continue its mission to “open doors for curious minds” as a dynamic center for engagement. Programs and services supported by the Foundation include: capital projects; public art; expansion of collections; and exceptional programs, activities and computer education. For more information, visit anythinklibraries.org/about/anythink-foundation 

     About Anythink™

    Anythink is a new style of library – a place of unlimited imagination, where play inspires creativity and lifelong learning. Anythink serves the residents of Adams County, Colo., with seven libraries and a bookmobile. With a focus on innovation, Anythink’s award-winning approach to library service is recognized by industry leaders and organizations across the globe. For more information, visit anythinklibraries.org. 

     

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  • Rabid bat found at Westminster apartment complex

    Rabid bat found at Westminster apartment complex

    The state lab determined that a bat found at Hidden Lake Apartments at West 68th Avenue and Lowell Boulevard on Aug. 4 tested positive for rabies. 

    Westminster Police Department received a report that a group of approximately 16 children were seen playing with the injured bat outside the apartment complex. Animal management officers submitted the bat to the state laboratory on Aug. 4 for testing, and the lab confirmed it to have rabies on Aug. 6. It is unclear at this time if any of the children were exposed. Public health officials advise anyone who many have handled this bat to receive immediate medical treatment. Rabies is a serious disease that affects the nervous system and is fatal if left untreated, but treatment is effective if potential exposures are discovered early. 

    This afternoon, officials are working together to make contact with the individuals involved and warn residents of the presence of the rabid bat. Animal management officers are on site assisting in identifying and locating the children involved. Public health officials from Tri-County Health Department are posting flyers warning of the presence of the rabid bat around the apartment complex, and epidemiologists from CDPHE are conducting interviews to determine the extent of exposure.

    “Anyone who may have handled a bat or learns their child had contact with a bat, should immediately contact their medical provider and state health department at 303-692-2700,” said Dr. Jennifer House, state public health veterinarian. 

    CDPHE officials agree that even seemingly insignificant contact with a bat may be sufficient to transmit the rabies virus. Rabies is spread most often through contact with bat saliva, as a result of bites or from exposure to cuts on a person’s skin. The bat was found outside and is not known to have entered any apartments. People who had direct contact with the bat may be unaware that they were bitten and may not see bite marks.

    Colorado residents can be reassured that only a small percentage of bats are likely to be carrying rabies, but it is important to avoid contact with all bats. The public should contact their local animal control to collect bats for rabies testing when an exposure is suspected. 

    Steps to control and prevent rabies:

    • Avoid stray and wild animals.
    • Vaccinate cats, dogs, ferrets and livestock.
    • Do not allow pets to roam freely.
    • If bitten or scratched by a pet or wild animal, immediately wash any wounds with soap and water and contact your family doctor.
    • Teach children who find a bat to leave it alone and tell an adult.
    • Do not pick up a bat with your hands, even if you’re wearing gloves. Use a shovel.
    • If you are bitten by a bat, suspect you’ve been exposed to bat saliva, or awake to find a bat in the room where you are sleeping, contact your medical provider.
    • Keep your doors and windows covered with intact screens. Do not leave screenless doors or windows open in the evening.
    • If you have bats in your house, call a professional wildlife control operator who has experience eliminating bats from homes.

    For more information, visit our rabies web page.

    photo credit: MGN Online 

     

     

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  • Governor Polis Provides Update on Colorado’s Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

    Governor Polis Provides Update on Colorado’s Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

    DENVER – Gov. Polis today provided an update on Colorado’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    “Colorado is in a better place than some of our neighboring states but we can’t let up when it comes to social distancing, mask-wearing, and washing our hands to slow the spread of the virus,” said Governor Jared Polis. “It’s up to each and every one of us to make sure we are taking the steps to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community during this pandemic. While it is welcomed news that cases are not increasing,  we need to have the resolve to keep it up to have them start decreasing.”

    As a result of the mask-wearing order and the decision to close bars, Colorado is seeing COVID-19 cases plateau, but the Governor cautioned Coloradans that the state is in a precarious position and everyone must remain vigilant and continue following social distancing requirements, wearing masks, and washing hands. 

    Last week, the Attorney General’s office issued a cease-and-desist letter to Live Entertainment, the company responsible for these large-scale events in Weld County. The Attorney General’s office has proactively sent cease and desist orders to the organizers and promoters, Adixion Music, as well as the venue, Imperial Horse Racing Facility in Pierce, to stop these illegal events. The Governor discouraged Coloradans from purchasing tickets or attending these types of events because it is better for the community and noted that ticket holders may end up being scammed out of their money when these events are shut down.

    The Governor announced that starting Thursday, August 6, the Colorado COVID Relief Fund will begin accepting applications for the sixth round of funding. Organizations must apply by Aug. 20 at 7:00 p.m. Eligible community-based organizations across Colorado may apply for a general operating grant of up to $25,000. New to this deadline, the Fund will also accept applications from collaborative efforts that include three or more organizations to encourage community and regional coordination. All information will be updated on www.helpcoloradonow.org on Wednesday, August 5, and Coloradans can also email .  To date, the fund has raised more than $22 million and distributed $16.4 million to more than 750 organizations serving Coloradans in all 64 counties. 

    Governor Polis was excited to announce that after speaking with Vice President Pence over the weekend, the National Guard’s deployment has been extended until the end of the year. The Governor thanked the National Guard men and women for all their hard work to help Colorado respond to the coronavirus pandemic. Last week, the Colorado National Guard reached a testing milestone in support of the State’s ongoing COVID-19 testing across Colorado, testing 20,000 Coloradans at 122 testing sites in 28 counties and 34 cities.

    Governor Polis also extended an Executive Order today declaring a state of disaster emergency and providing additional funds for the pandemic response. 

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  • Workforce Development & Recovery: Telephone Town Hall Q&A

    Join representatives from Arapahoe County, A/D Works!, and Tri-County Health Dept. on July 30 at 7 p.m. to get your questions answered.

    Thursday’s Telephone Town Hall will focus on employment resources and training available to job seekers, and also offer compliance guidance to businesses aiming to keep both their employees and patrons safe.

    At the time of the event, listen in and ask your question by: 

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  • Gov. Polis Announces Interim Chief of Staff

    Gov. Polis Announces Interim Chief of Staff

    DENVER – Governor Jared Polis today announced that Rick Palacio will serve as the Interim Chief of Staff in the Governor’s Office starting August 1st while current Chief of Staff Lisa Kaufmann is on maternity leave. Kaufmann is expected to return to the office full time in early November and resume her role as Chief of Staff. 

    Prior to serving as Chief of Staff, Kaufmann was then-Congressman Polis Colorado Chief of Staff  and chair of his gubernatorial campaign.Lisa Kaufmann has worked with Gov. Jared Polis for over 13 years, since his first campaign for Congress. She has held various positions on his team over the years, including Chief of Staff for his congressional office, campaign manager during various election years, and Chair of his 2018 Campaign for Governor. She has been the Chief of Staff for the State of Colorado since Gov. Polis’ inauguration in January 2019. Kaufmann is one of a few women to hold the position of Chief of Staff to the Governor and the first one to go on maternity leave while serving in Colorado.

    Kaufmann along with Congressman Joe Neguse, Representative Leslie Herod, and Majority Speaker Steve Fenberg founded New Era Colorado in 2006, a nonprofit group that engages young voters and inspires future progressive leaders.

    She lives in Lyons, CO with her husband Ryan, their daughter Ani, and the two are excited to welcome a new baby in August 2020.

    “Lisa is a dedicated public servant who’s strategic thinking has been instrumental in our administration’s accomplishments for the people of Colorado,” said Governor Jared Polis. “I am deeply committed to leading by example that women can have successful careers at the highest levels and a family by having her at the helm as chair of my campaign and now chief of staff. When I hired Lisa to chair my gubernatorial campaign, a more than full time demanding job, she was expecting her first child. It’s important that having a family not hold anyone back from the highest leadership roles in government and in business. We’re excited for Rick to join the team in the interim and know his wealth of experience will be a great asset.” 

    A Pueblo native and sixth-generation Coloradan, Rick Palacio is the Managing Partner of The Majority Institute, a progressive research and polling firm based in Denver, Colorado. He is also the founder of the consulting firm, PSGroup. In 2018, Rick served as a Co-Chair for the Governor’s transition committee. For six years, Palacio served as Chairman of the Colorado Democratic Party. 

    Prior to his service as Chair, Palacio served in a variety of positions in Colorado and national politics, including various roles with former U.S. Rep. John Salazar of Colorado and as a senior leadership aide to U.S. House Majority Leader, Steny H. Hoyer of Maryland.

    Palacio is the first Latino to hold the office of chair of the Colorado Democratic Party, and when elected, he was only the second Latino elected as chair of a major political party in the nation. Palacio will be the first Latino and the first openly gay Chief of Staff to serve a Colorado Governor and the state.

    Rick lives in Denver with his husband, Graham, and their two dogs.

     

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  • Aurora Motor Vehicle Office closes temporarily   after employee tests positive for COVID-19

    Aurora Motor Vehicle Office closes temporarily   after employee tests positive for COVID-19

    Closure effective from Wednesday, July 15 through Friday, July 17 

    Arapahoe County will temporarily close its Aurora Motor Vehicle Office from Wednesday, July 15 through Friday, July 17, after the county confirmed one employee tested positive for COVID-19 and other employees may have been exposed. The office is located at 490 S. Chambers Road in Aurora. 

    Arapahoe County is following Tri-County Health Department and CDC guidelines that cover what steps to take when an employee tests positive, and the one employee who tested positive is quarantining. Additionally, employees who have worked at the Aurora office within the past week are being encouraged to get tested. Public health guidelines state that exposure has taken place when a person is in a contained space for 15 minutes or longer with someone known to have the virus. 

    The County is reaching out to customers who had appointments for motor vehicle services at the Aurora office for rescheduling. Motor vehicle services will continue being offered by appointment only at the Littleton, Centennial and Byers offices. Offices are being deep cleaned and decontaminated as a precautionary measure.  

    “We are closing the Aurora Motor Vehicle Office out of an abundance of caution for our customers and our employees,” said Clerk and Recorder Joan Lopez. “We will continue to monitor the situation and work closely with Tri-County Health to ensure we are doing everything possible to keep everyone safe. We ask for patience and understanding during this time and understand this closure comes at a time when customers have had limited access to services due to COVID. The safety or our customers and employees is our top concern.”  

    Many motor vehicle transactions can be handled online at https://mydmv.colorado.gov, including vehicle renewals, replacement documents and disability placards. Renewal kiosks are also available throughout Arapahoe County and in neighboring counties that can process most renewal transactions. These kiosk locations can be found at https://comvexpress.com/. Customers can use any of these kiosks to process renewals. 

    Arapahoe County has instituted health and safety protocols since reopening facilities to the public. These measures include sanitizing counters and workstations regularly, requiring employees and visitors to wear face coverings, additional cleaning in public areas, employee temperature monitoring, practicing social distancing, ample instructional signage in all offices, adding hand sanitizing stations throughout the buildings, and encouraging residents to access services online to handle many transactions remotely. 

    photo credit: MGN Online

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  • Summer Sounds Virtual Concert Series: The Bookshop Band

    Summer Sounds Virtual Concert Series: The Bookshop Band

    Friday, July 10, 2020
    5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
    Online event

    Grab your favorite summer refreshment and head out on your patio for a lively virtual concert by The Bookshop Band, featuring singer-songwriter duo Ben Please and Beth Porter. They write and perform songs inspired by books from authors such as Shakespeare and Philip Pullman. Their literary-themed melodies will make you long for “once upon a time.” The performance is geared towards adults and all are welcome to attend.

    Registration for this event will close 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. You will receive an email with instructions on how to access this event shortly before your session begins.

    A Zoom account is not required to “attend” this event which can be accessed via computer or telephone. Visit the Zoom help guide for more information on how to use the platform. For additional support, please see our online chat service.

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