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BUCKLEY SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. – Colorado Air National Guard 140th Wing State Command Chief U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Edward Hauschild will pass responsibility to U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jeremy Jenkins in a Change of Responsibility ceremony  at 2:00 p.m., April 6, 2024, Hangar 909, Buckley Space Force Base, Aurora, Colorado.

Assistant Adjutant General, Air U.S Air Force Brig. Gen. D. Micah “Zeus” Fesler will serve as the presiding official at the ceremony.

The State Command Chief represents the highest level of Air enlisted leadership and is the principal advisor to the commander of the COANG.  Responsibilities include readiness, operational utilization, professional development, morale, and welfare of more than 1,600 COANG Airmen.

“I have been reflecting so much on what these last 33 years of military service means to me, and I know how blessed I am to have served along some of America’s finest,” Hauschild said. “I will always cherish these experiences and thank every fellow service member for their contributions to making me the best person I could be.”

Hauschild enlisted in the Air Force in April 1991 as a munitions systems specialist. He served nine years on active duty while stationed at four different Air Force bases before joining the COANG in 2000.

He went on to serve as the 140th munitions superintendent, the 140th equipment maintenance superintendent, the 140th maintenance group superintendent, and the 140th Wing command chief prior to his current position as the state command chief.

Jenkins enlisted in the Active Duty Air Force in June 1999 as a tactical air control party. He served 10 years on active duty and conducted numerous combat missions in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. He joined the COANG in 2009, where he held several positions, including patient administration non-commissioned officer in charge, search and extraction flight chief, Medical Support Squadron superintendent, and Detachment 1 superintendent in support of Colorado’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High Yield Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package.

In 2013, he served a tour in support of the Colorado Joint Counterdrug Task Force where he served as the senior enlisted advisor responsible for overseeing all departments which included civil operations, administration staff, aviation support, criminal analysts, and ground reconnaissance/surveillance specialists in support of local, state and federal drug task forces. Prior to his current position, Jenkins was assigned as the Senior Enlisted Leader for the 140th Maintenance Group.

DENVER—The Parks and Wildlife Commission will hold a hybrid “Special Commission Meeting” in Denver on April 5, 2024. The meeting is scheduled to begin at noon and adjourn at 5:30 p.m.

The meeting’s complete agenda and reference materials are now posted and can be viewed online on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Commission webpage. The meeting will be streamed live on CPW’s YouTube page.

The Commission will discuss the 2025-2029 Big Game Season Structure (BGSS) staff recommendations and receive public comment. Additional agenda items include:

• Wildlife corridors
• Lesser Prairie Chickens
• Beaver management

Details on providing public comments for hybrid meetings are available on the CPW website. The public is encouraged to email written comments to the commission at . Written comments must be provided by April 3, 2024, to be received by the Commission before the meeting.

The Commission meets regularly and travels to communities around the state to facilitate public participation. Anyone can listen to commission meetings (live or archived) through the CPW website. This opportunity keeps constituents informed about the development of regulations and how the commission works with Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff to manage the agency’s parks, wildlife, and outdoor recreation programs. Learn more about the commission on the CPW website.

CENTENNIAL, Colo. – Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera and The Adjutant General of Colorado U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan will host an Easter event at the Boettcher Mansion in Denver for the families of Colorado National Guard service members March 23, 2024.

The CONG Easter Egg Roll is a military-focused event held every other year to recognize that families of service members also serve.

“This event is about saying thank you to our Colorado National Guard families while connecting them with valuable resources,” Clellan said.  “Our National Guard members would not be ready to serve our state and nation without the support of our families.”

The CONG’s Prevention Workforce and Joint Resiliency Directory, or J9, coordinates the festivities. Those in attendance can participate in crafts, games, an Easter egg hunt, story time for the children, and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. The event will be held from approximately 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Events such as this are a way for military families to network and get connected to resources. Each year CONG families experience separation while their service members are called to support stateside emergency response or overseas contingency operations.

From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday, March 20, motorists should expect a right lane closure on westbound I-70 at the E-470 interchange to set the traffic barrier. Once set, motorists can expect a right shoulder closure for several months. Crews will also begin installing permanent storm sewer pipe north of I-70 through this week. Motorists will also notice increased truck activity near Picadilly Road and Colfax Avenue for several weeks with trucks hauling materials to and from the project. Drivers are asked to use caution when traveling through the work zone and wto atch for trucks entering and exiting along Picadilly Road between 19th Avenue and Smith Road.

urged to avoid travel if possible

Statewide- Several highways across the Denver metro area and high country are closed due to adverse conditions and crashes. Road conditions vary, but most highways are snowpacked and slushy making driving conditions difficult.

Keeping the roads open as much as possible will be an all-hands-on-deck effort. CDOT urged drivers to stay off the road when possible during heavy periods of snow and to make sure that vehicles venturing into the snow are equipped for the conditions. For example, numerous instances of jack-knifed semi trucks, many without chains, have led to numerous closures on key thoroughfares like I-70. If travelers must head out, be sure to maintain slower speeds, keep plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead and use extreme caution. There may be a lull in weather early this morning in the Denver metro area, but motorists should be warned that snow conditions are expected to pick back up later in the morning.

Below are the closures that are currently in place as of 8 a.m.:

• I-70 in both directions between Morrison and Silverthorne because of adverse conditions and semi-truck crashes due to lack of chains.
• US 285 just south of C-470 is closed due to a jackknifed semi truck.
• Highway 119 is closed due to adverse conditions. Power outages have been reported.
• US 40 Berthoud Pass and US 6 Loveland Pass are closed due to adverse conditions, avalanche recovery after a natural slide occurred overnight and additional
• winter operations will be necessary to make sure that the roads are safe to reopen.
• US 40/I-70 Frontage Road is closed.

I-25 between Castle Rock and northern Colorado Springs and roads in the Palmer Divide communities are particularly treacherous and have received over 10” of snow, making driving conditions very difficult. The winter storm will continue throughout the day and roads may become worse, especially as more folks take to the roads. The storm is tracking as forecasted. Friday morning ski traffic will be affected.

Pavement Impacts

Front Range Mountains

• Peak impacts: Wednesday night to Thursday night
• Winds: Moderate
• Snowfall Rates: 1”/hour+
• Pavement Condition: Snowpacked/icy

Southwest Colorado

• Peak impacts: Thursday afternoon to Friday night
• Winds: Moderate
• Snowfall Rates: Moderate to heavy
• Pavement Conditions: Snowpacked/icy and then will turn to slushy/wet

North of the Palmer Divide

• Peak impacts: Wednesday night to Thursday night
• Winds: Moderate/gusty
• Snowfall Rates: 1”/hour+
• Pavement Conditions: Wet/slushy and then will turn to snowpacked/icy

South of the Palmer Divide

• Peak Impacts: Early Thursday to Friday morning
• Winds: Moderate/gusty
• Rates: Moderate to heavy
• Pavement Conditions: Wet/slushy and then will turn to snowpacked/icy

Looking for Road Conditions? Go to COtrip!

For real-time updates, motorists should use COtrip.org or the COtrip Planner app for the latest road closures and conditions. CDOT’s social media channels, especially X (formerly Twitter), will not be updated with real-time information. Chain and Traction Laws are in place in the high country and can be seen on these platforms as well.

Winter Travel Tips for Motorists

• Avoid or limit driving during the brunt of the storm on Thursday.
• Work from home if you can.
• If you plan to travel, know before you go by checking out the latest weather conditions and visiting COtrip.org for road conditions (see info sources below).
• Make sure your vehicle is winter ready with the appropriate tires for the weather and have a snow emergency kit.
• Once you are out on the road, take it slow, no sudden stops and leave plenty of following distance.
• Give plows space! Stay back three to four car lengths from snow plows.

Safety Closures

A safety closure is a precaution taken during inclement weather to reduce the probability of traffic incidents, increased congestion or other safety-related factors. During a safety closure, traffic may be stopped on the interstate, turned around or directed to an exit. Safety closures help decrease delay times, and, above all, keep travelers safe.

Chain & Traction Laws

When weather conditions warrant, CDOT will activate the Traction Law. If weather conditions deteriorate, CDOT will activate Chain Laws for passenger and commercial vehicles. Motorists will be alerted to an active Traction or Chain Law by highway signage, COtrip.org and traffic/roadway condition alerts. For more information on the Traction Law and Passenger Vehicle Chain Law requirements, visit codot.gov/travel/winter-driving/tractionlaw. For more information on the Commercial Vehicle Chain Law requirements, visit codot.gov/travel/colorado-chain-law. To learn more and view helpful tips for winter driving, visit winter.codot.gov.

COtrip.org & COtrip Planner App

If motorists must head out during this winter storm, they are urged to visit COtrip.org and download the COtrip Planner app ahead of time. Motorists are now able to sign up for travel alerts through COtrip.org to see if there are any highway closures or impacts along their favorite routes. The COtrip Planner app also offers a “Trip Planner” feature that allows motorists to map out their routes and receive updates about road closures or incidents along the way. Motorists can turn on the “Hands-Free, Eyes Free” feature to receive these alerts via voice notifications and avoid routes with impacts.

The free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

• Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

 ARAPAHOE COUNTY, CO—March 13, 2024—For the safety of motorists, Arapahoe County Public Works will close the Cherry Creek Damn Road at 1 a.m. on Thursday, March 14, due to the impending snowstorm. The road will remain closed until further notice. Drivers should use I-225 or South Parker Road as alternates.

 

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Arapahoe County provides the best of everything Colorado has to offer. From babies to boomers and beyond, residents put down roots, raise families, start and run businesses, and embrace the endless opportunities and amenities that make the state unique. Arapahoe County spans 805 miles and features vibrant urban, suburban and rural communities, an unparalleled open space and trail system, major employment centers and a robust multimodal transportation network. Learn more at arapahoeco.gov. 

It’s four years in the making! Leap Day is here. What will you do with the extra day? The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has some ideas:

There’s no time like the present! 

Use your bonus day by making a health-conscious splash. Whether it’s finally making an appointment for that overdue check-up, getting up-to-date on recommended vaccines, or simply indulging in some well-deserved self-care, investing in your well-being is always a good idea!

Radon? Not on our watch!

Home is where the heart is, but it’s also where radon might be lurking. Put the odds in your favor by testing your home for radon. Worried about the cost? Fear not! Find out how to access a discounted radon test kit to keep your home safe from lung cancer risks.

Maximize health and financial well-being: File early for tax benefits!

Why wait? Get a jump on your tax returns early and effortlessly at GetAheadColorado.org where you can file securely and for free. Plus, don’t miss out on potential cashback from the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit — file now to claim your benefits and seize the day! 

A breath of fresh air!

Whether it’s a brisk walk, a jog in the park, or a fun outdoor activity, embrace the opportunity to get active and enjoy the fresh Colorado air. Living an active lifestyle is just one way you can protect your heart health and support a healthy brain!

E-bike extravaganza!

Ditch the car keys and hop on the eco-friendly bandwagon. Ride a bike, take a walk, or use public transportation to reduce environmental impacts and protect clean Colorado air. Household motor vehicle trips are one of the biggest drivers of transportation emissions in the country. Find out how to access an E-bike. 

Farm-to-fork fiesta!

Time to play chef with some homegrown Colorado produce. Whip up a scrumptious and healthy meal while brushing up on food safety best practices. 

Hydration celebration!

Dive into the refreshing embrace of Colorado water. Discover inventive ways to boost your daily water intake and stay hydrated — your body will thank you!

(Early) Spring clean!

Clear out the clutter by dropping off old or unused meds at a Medication Takeback drop box. It’s not just a cleanup. It’s a safeguard against accidents and misuse, and keeping our water systems pristine.

 

Information is power!

Explore the universe of CDPHE’s information campaignsdedicated to preserving public and environmental health. We’ve got your back, Colorado!

Join us at the table!

Get your voice heard and make a difference! Dive into public meetings on environmental justice, where you can weigh in on issues close to your heart. Because your opinion matters, and we’re all ears.

Leap Day just got a whole lot cooler, thanks to CDPHE’s health-packed, joy-filled playbook. Get ready to make the most of those bonus 24 hours, Colorado-style!

While heating prices have come down in recent months compared to their peak last year, Americans are still projected to spend nearly 30% more on utilities this winter than before the pandemic. But differences in fuels, prices, and climate create large regional variation in household utility expenditures, especially during the winter months.

To determine the states most impacted by rising heating costs this winter, researchers calculated the change in monthly household utility costs from winter 2019–2020 to winter 2023–2024, then ranked states accordingly.

These are the key takeaways from the report for Colorado:

• After remaining low since 2010, natural gas prices have risen nearly 27% since the winter of 2019–2020. Winter propane and heating oil prices also followed this trend, rising 23% and 39% during the same time period, respectively.
• Nationally, natural gas is the predominant heating fuel, used as the primary source in over 60 million homes (46% of the total). Electricity ranks as the second most common fuel for residential heating, serving as the primary source for approximately 54 million homes.
• Residents of Colorado—who primarily rely on natural gas to heat their homes—saw average household utility costs of $158 each month during the winter of 2019–2020.
• This winter, they’re projected to spend an average of $204 each month.
• Based on these projections, households in Colorado will experience a 29.0% increase in their utility bills this winter—the 13th largest among all U.S. states.

Geographical Differences in Primary Household Heating Fuels

Here is a link to the complete results of the analysis, with data on all 50 states. Feel free to republish or use the findings in your own write-up. If you choose to use the analysis, please link to the original report: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/states-impacted-rising-heating-costs/

Arapahoe County Public Health uses equity-focused approach to overdose prevention with new mobile service 

 

ARAPAHOE COUNTY – Feb. 22, 2024 – In an effort to better respond to the needs of people who use narcotics and other drugs—and to address the toll of opioids and overdose on the community—Arapahoe County Public Health is launching a new mobile harm reduction service called Prevention Point. On Tuesday, Feb. 27, County officials and Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser will unveil the program and share more about this new initiative, as well as its impact on residents.  

The Arapahoe County Public Health Harm Reduction team has served clients through fixed-location services and street outreach since opening its doors in January 2023. However, during the department’s the first year of operation, the team identified a significant need to remove barriers to accessing services by offering them outside of public buildings.    

“When Arapahoe County Public Health received grant funding from the Colorado Opioid Abatement Council, it was crucial we utilized it to do something that could truly make a difference,” said Jennifer Ludwig, public health director.  “We know that opioids don’t discriminate, and we know that the opioid crisis has affected all communities in the Denver Metro Area. Our goal in starting mobile harm reduction services is to maximize impact and ultimately save lives.” 

Harm reduction services are proven strategies that keep communities safer and healthier. Evidence shows that strong harm reduction programs reduce the spread of disease, increase the rate of proper syringe disposal, and increase the likelihood of individuals accessing critical services, such as Naloxone for overdose reversal.  

Mobile services help build stronger relationships and trust with individuals, which is critical to accessing the services that can help change lives.  

Prevention Point offers Arapahoe County the opportunity to innovate for and partner with a community that is often overlooked and stigmatized, though they are acutely affected by the harm opioids have had on our society.  

Media are invited to learn more about Prevention Point and the importance of innovative harm reduction efforts in Arapahoe County and beyond. 

Who:     Arapahoe Board of County Commissioners 

What:   Mobile Harm Reduction Services Kickoff 

When:  8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024 

Where: 5335 South Prince Street, Littleton, CO 80120 

Additional Stops: 

·          Giving Heart Englewood—10–10:45 a.m.  

·         Town of Bennett Town Hall—1–1:45 p.m.  

·         Arapahoe County Public Health at Altura Plaza—2:30–3:15 p.m.   

 

Photo Opportunities: Tour of the vehicle. Board of County Commissioners, Board of Health, Public Health Officials, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser will be available for interviews.  

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Arapahoe County provides the best of everything Colorado has to offer. From babies to boomers and beyond, residents put down roots, raise families, start and run businesses, and embrace the endless opportunities and amenities that make the state unique. Arapahoe County spans 805 miles and features vibrant urban, suburban and rural communities, an unparalleled open space and trail system, major employment centers and a robust multimodal transportation network. Learn more at arapahoeco.gov.