There is only a little over a week left to support Meals on Wheels of Boulder through the King Soopers Fight Hunger Bag Program. Head on over to the King Soopers on 3600 Table Mesa for your grocery needs, and with every purchase of their Fight Hunger Bag, we receive $1. January 31st is the deadline to get your bag. Thank you.
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#FridayFeature A big thank you to Harvest of Hope Food Pantry for sharing their bounty of a Kouign-Amann donation with us. They supplied us four cases (90 each). Chef Todd is going to turn these into a delicious dessert for our clients. THANK YOU!
There is still a little over a week left to start a recurring donation this January for the full year! Recurring donations help us with cash flow throughout the year to purchase food and supplies and other expenses for our meal delivery programs. Find out how you can join the Nourishing Neighbors Network: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/recurringdonorformealsonwheelsofboulder
Hungry for lunch? We have Crusted Cod and Honey Mustard Pork Loin at The Eat Well Café! Soup is Chicken Enchilada Vegetable, and there are two yummy choices for dessert. Head on over to 909 Arapahoe - West Age Well Center. Open for all ages and appetites, 11am-1pm M-F.
LONGMONT, CO – January 2026 – Elevation Web Design & SEO, a founder-led digital marketing agency based in Longmont, Colorado, officially announces its launch, bringing enterprise-level SEO experience from highly competitive markets to local service businesses across the Front Range.
Founded by Chase McNaughton, Elevation Web Design & SEO was built after years of hands-on experience working in competitive SEO environments serving medical and professional service businesses in markets such as New York City and Los Angeles. These industries demand precision, compliance awareness, and measurable performance, where rankings directly impact revenue and mistakes carry real consequences.
That experience now shapes Elevation’s approach to local SEO.
Rather than operating as a high-volume agency with layered account management, Elevation is intentionally founder-led. Strategy, execution, and communication are handled directly by the founder, eliminating the disconnect many business owners experience when campaigns are passed between sales teams, junior account managers, or outsourced fulfillment providers.
“Many local businesses invest in SEO without ever being given clarity,” said McNaughton. “They receive reports and rankings, but not a clear understanding of what’s being done, why it matters, or how it connects to growth. Elevation was created to change that.”
Elevation Web Design & SEO focuses exclusively on local service-based businesses, including contractors, medical practices, professional services, and brick-and-mortar companies. Services include local SEO, Google Business Profile optimization, website design, and search-driven lead generation strategies designed to perform in real local markets. Businesses can learn more about Elevation’s local SEO approach at https://www.elevationwebdesignseo.com.
In addition to client work, Elevation actively operates and ranks its own local service businesses, using real-world performance data to test and refine SEO strategies before applying them to client campaigns. This operator-led approach ensures recommendations are grounded in execution, not theory.
Based on Main Street in Longmont, Elevation Web Design & SEO serves businesses throughout Longmont and the surrounding Front Range, building campaigns that account for regional competition, local search behavior, and how customers actually choose service providers.
For more information about Elevation Web Design & SEO or to schedule a consultation, visit https://www.elevationwebdesignseo.com.
About Elevation Web Design & SEO
Elevation Web Design & SEO is a Longmont, Colorado-based digital marketing agency specializing in local SEO, web design, and search-driven lead generation for service-based businesses. Founded by Chase McNaughton, the agency is built on founder-led execution, transparent communication, and strategies designed for real-world local competition. The agency serves clients nationally, but has a strong focus on local cities including Longmont, Broomfield, Erie, Lafayette, Boulder, and the entire Front Range.
Help us create magic this January by purchasing a King Soopers Fight Hunger bag at the 3600 Table Mesa location in Boulder. With each bag purchase, Meals on Wheels of Boulder receives $1. It all adds up to support more meals, visits, and smiles for your Boulder neighbors in need! Thank you.
Friday Feature!
A big THANK YOU to Woodbourne Capital Management for their continued support. They are sponsoring a series of All Routes for a Day! If you are interested in sponsoring or supporting Meals on Wheels of Boulder by volunteering as a group: https://mowboulder.org/2025/06/calling-all-corporate-connections/
Hey all
Sadie here. I serve as the Director of the Business & Community Promotion Board for the City of Idaho Springs, and I wanted to share a bit about something we quietly launched this year: VisitIdahoSpringsCO.com and more importantly, why it matters.
This website isn’t just a tourism site. It’s part of a broader direction the town is taking to better support local businesses, navigate change, and stay connected as we grow.
Over the past year, Idaho Springs has been balancing a lot at once: construction impacts, parking changes, increasing visitation, and the very real needs of the people who live and work here every day. That tension asked us to slow down, listen more closely, and build tools that actually help not just promote.
So the website became a kind of anchor.
It’s now a central place for:
• Local business listings and visibility • Events and community programming• Clear, consistent visitor information• Storytelling that reflects who we are, not just what we sell
Behind the scenes, it’s tied to a larger strategy that includes:
• Supporting businesses through events and downtown activations • Creating clearer communication around parking and mobility• Hosting Community Conversations so people can ask questions and be heard• Investing in branding, wayfinding, and long-term planning so growth doesn’t feel chaotic
From my perspective, economic vitality isn’t about chasing volume it’s about tending the ecosystem. When people can find their way easily, when businesses feel supported, when residents feel included, the whole system breathes a little easier.
Idaho Springs is moving toward being a place that’s:
• Welcoming but not overwhelmed • Active but still rooted• Intentional about how we grow
The website launch is just one visible piece of that work — but it reflects a deeper commitment to clarity, connection, and care.
If you’re curious, you can check it out here: VisitIdahoSpringsCO.com And if you’re a local business owner or resident, your feedback genuinely matters this is a living platform, not a finished product.
We’re still learning, still adjusting, still listening. But the direction feels right.
Thanks for being part of the conversation ?
Hello, I wanted to share this incredible community installment some neighbors put up along Wonderland Creek path near Elk's Lodge. I was inspired to write a poem about it using some of the wishes. I figured this would be bring some hope/joy to folks in larger Boulder community.
You can read the poem on Substack, I couldn't format it correctly here
https://moudisbeity.substack.com/p/the-wishing-wall
With Love,
Moudi
The Sharon Prize, a prestigious $5,000 annual grant celebrating and supporting women and non-binary artists in Colorado, has been awarded to Kristen Abbott for her innovative project, Tending | Belonging. Her project explores the cyclical nature of life—how we are connected and shaped by our encounters with beauty, loss, and longing. This immersive exhibition considers the garden as both metaphor and material: a site of care, change, and shared experience.
Kristen is a mixed media painter, drawing inspiration from the scenic landscapes of Boulder, Colorado where she resides. Guided by introspection and propelled by a sense of joyful experimentation, Abbott’s creative process spans a diverse array of mediums and materials. Her collaboration with nature rejuvenates her sense of wonder, continually drawing her back to the canvas in pursuit of capturing the enigmatic essence of Colorado’s landscape and the internal stillness it shares with us.
Kristen’s work is represented by Liz Lidgett Gallery and Midnight Gallery and is included in private, corporate, and hospital collections nationwide. Beyond her studio practice, she is passionate about fostering a creative community, hosting workshops, retreats, and gatherings at Schoolhouse Studios, a 1950’s schoolhouse she personally renovated in Boulder, Colorado.
“When I first read about the Sharon Prize, it felt too aligned not to apply. Receiving it has been both an honor and a catalyst—giving me greater freedom to create art that builds connection and community, and to hold spaces where artists of all backgrounds can gather and grow. I am grateful for the Sharon Prize jury’s belief in the power of art to connect us,” said Kristen Abbott.
Through large-scale cyanotypes, paintings, installations, photography, poetry, and interactive elements, Tending | Belonging invites viewers into a sensory journey through the seasons—winter, spring, summer, fall—each unfolding within its own room at Schoolhouse Studios. These distinct spaces mirror the inner landscapes we move through and will immerse attendees in themes of loss, dormancy, renewal, and abundance.
Tending | Belonging is a call to disarm through beauty—to break down barriers and create space for reflection and conversation. Together, these artists offer a space where art and nature converge to remind us that we are more connected than separate in our experience of what it means to be human.
The show features the work of Kristen Abbott as well as Colorado-based artists, Sara Sanderson, Natalie Pigliacampo, Cady Faus, and Lindsey Mazzaferro.
The Sharon Prize, established in honor of the late Sharon Riordan McAvoy, is an annual grant recognizing women and non-binary artists in Colorado who create work evoking the power of community and collective change. Over the past four years, they have received grant proposals from over 200 visual artists, singers, dancers, writers and filmmakers living and working in Colorado.
The opening reception for Tending | Belonging is Saturday, October 4th, from 5-8pm, at Schoolhouse Studios located at 4705 Baseline Road in Boulder, Colorado. Light refreshments will be served in the studio garden.
Leading tuition-free online public school starts new school year with strong parent satisfaction and expanded College and Career Readiness offering
Englewood, Colo. – As students across the state head back to school, so are those who prefer logging into their classes with Colorado Connections Academy. This tuition-free online public school serving students in grades K-12 from across the state, recently welcomed new and returning students to the virtual classroom for the 2025-26 school year.
This year, students in grades 6-12 can benefit from an expanded College and Career Readiness offering. The school will integrate traditional academic subjects with industry-leading, career-focused options like IT, business, health sciences, and marketing, helping students develop durable skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership. Students can participate in career exploration and industry networking opportunities to build confidence, make connections and find direction to prepare for their future.
“Colorado Connections Academy is more than just a school, it’s a community. It’s a place where you can find unparalleled support from our incredible teachers and exemplary staff who care about helping everyone thrive. Not only academically, but as a person,” said Bryan Hill, Executive Director of Colorado Connections Academy schools. “Our school model offers engaging instruction and meaningful collaboration.”
Students return to school as results from the 2025 Parent Satisfaction Survey, an annual third-party survey that provides families with the opportunity to review their experience with Colorado Connections Academy, show continued high levels of approval from families:
- 98% of parents say their child is satisfied learning at Colorado Connections Academy
- 96% of parents agree the Colorado Connections Academy program gives them more opportunity to be more involved with their child’s education
- 95% of parents believe their child is receiving a quality education with Colorado Connections Academy
- 95% of parents feel their children are making progress on their academic goals with Connections Academy
Colorado Connections Academy offers a comprehensive virtual school experience that keeps students motivated and engaged with a strong circle of support and a deep sense of belonging. The school’s team of supportive and experienced educators, specially trained in online instruction, establish meaningful connections with students helping them achieve their full potential and reach their goals. Parents and caregivers are involved in the learning journey as their child’s Learning Coach, serving as their mentor and guide through the school day.
Virtual school is a great fit for a variety of students, including those who are academically advanced or struggle in a traditional school setting, as well as those who may be experiencing health challenges, bullying, or living in rural areas. Others are athletes or performers who require a flexible learning schedule.
Siblings Aimee and Aaron Wild train full-time as elite halfpipe snowboarders while completing their studies through Colorado Connections Academy. The school’s flexible schedule enables them to compete internationally and stay on track academically. Both have earned top finishes on the NorAm and Rev Tour circuits, with Aaron also competing on the World Cup circuit for Team Great Britain.
“Colorado Connections Academy has helped me prepare for my snowboarding goals of winning at an elite level by giving me the flexibility of when I complete my schoolwork. It has also prepared me for my future at college,” said Aimee, a 9th grader with Colorado Connections Academy.
Aimee recently won the NorAm Cup and earned two wins and two silver medals at Rev Tour events. Aaron qualified for finals in three out of four Rev Tour events, reached the podium at Mammoth Mountain, and competed at the World Cup level. He hopes to qualify for the X Games and the Olympics in 2030.
“I have a solid relationship with my teachers. They are all very responsive and helpful,” added Aaron, who will be an 11th grader this year. “I love my electives and I feel like I’m learning things I can apply to real life.”
Enrollment is currently open for the 2025-26 school year. Families interested in Colorado Connections Academy schools are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions, and discover if virtual school is the right fit for their students. To learn more about the school or begin enrollment, please visit www.ColoradoConnectionsAcademy.com or call 1-833-591-0251.
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About Colorado Connections Academy
Colorado Connections Academy is a unique, tuition-free, online public school for students in grades K-12. Colorado Connections Academy creates a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills and confidence they need to direct their own educational journey, learning to thrive in the real world by first learning how to be resourceful and resilient. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251 or visit www.ColoradoConnectionsAcademy.com.
Survey Methodology
Connections Academy conducts the annual Parent Satisfaction Survey to find out how parents, guardians and Learning Coaches grade the program in several key areas. The 2025 survey was conducted from January 15 to February 26 by Shapiro + Raj, an independent market research company that created the questionnaire, collected the data and tabulated the results. Parents and caretakers of all students enrolled at the time of the survey were invited to complete the survey online.
It's almost time to step into the vibrant heart of Pueblo, Colorado, where the Colorado State Fair, held from August 22 to September 1, 2025, transforms the fairgrounds into a dynamic showcase of agriculture, entertainment, and community spirit. This annual tradition, rooted in 1872, invites you to celebrate the state’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits, thrilling performances, and educational experiences that spark curiosity and connection.
Must-See Attractions for an Unforgettable Visit
Immerse yourself in the fair’s signature attractions. The PRCA Rodeo captivates with skilled cowboys and cowgirls competing in heart-pounding events like bull riding and barrel racing. The Colorado Proud Farm Trail offers an interactive adventure for families, where you can pick a virtual Palisade peach or harvest a Pueblo chile, learning about local agriculture. Don’t miss the World Slopper Eating Championship on August 31, a lively contest celebrating Pueblo’s iconic green chile-smothered burger. Free concerts at the Pepsi Stage feature artists like Cody Cozz, blending country and pop to keep the energy high.
Educational exhibits like the Kids’ Ag Education area provide hands-on activities, teaching you about sustainable farming through fun “ag-tivities” and celebrity book readings. The Fine Arts Competition showcases Colorado’s creative talent, from stunning paintings to intricate crafts, inspiring your appreciation for artistic innovation.
Plan your visit with this schedule of key events:
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| PRCA Rodeo | August 22-24 | Big R Arena |
| World Slopper Eating Championship | August 31 | Pepsi Stage |
| Colorado Proud Farm Trail | Daily | Small Animal Pavilion |
| Free Concerts | Daily | Pepsi Stage |
Embrace the fair’s lively atmosphere and create lasting memories. Purchase tickets at ColoradoStateFair.com to join this cherished celebration of Colorado’s agricultural and cultural legacy.
In a saturated market, choosing the right product can feel like finding a jet in a haystack. Enter HomeHangar—a nifty product comparison tool that lets you park products side‑by‑side and inspect every detail at a glance.
✨ What is HomeHangar?
HomeHangar is an online platform designed to streamline comparisons of consumer gadgets—think headphones, cameras, accessories, and more. It brings data-driven clarity to purchasing decisions by highlighting specs, pros and cons, and deals—all from varied retailers.
? The Power of Side‑by‑Side Comparisons
Compare two (or more) products in a table format featuring:
Technical specifications (battery life, connectivity, weight)
Price trends across stores
User reviews and ratings
Key differentiators at a glance
? How It Stands Out
Visual clarity: Spec grids make details plainly legible.
Dynamic pricing: Live or recent price tracking helps snag timely deals.
Targeted insights: Filters help find exactly what matters—whether it's battery span or microphone quality.
Smart decision-making: Decisions backed by clear, comprehensive data, not swayed by flashy marketing.
? Who It’s For
Bargain hunters craving data-based comparisons
Tech novices intimidated by spec sheets
Busy professionals making snap, informed purchases
Collectors who need precision in features
?️ Real-World Appeal
Shop with confidence – no more sifting through endless tabs
Save time & money – spot the best specs-to-price ratios quickly
Avoid buyer’s remorse – ensure every feature aligns with your needs
? Tips to Master HomeHangar
Select wisely – only compare products in the same category.
Zoom in on specs – filter columns for battery, audio quality, size, etc.
Price-match – check stores listed and timely deal alerts.
Read the fine print – user comments often provide real-world insights (comfort, reliability, etc.).
✅ Final Verdict
HomeHangar is a smart, user‑friendly comparator that gives you the tools to make savvy purchases across a wide range of consumer categories. Whether you're hunting for headphones, kitchen gadgets, or electronics, the platform helps you align choices with your priorities—without overwhelm or guesswork.
✍️ What Are You Shopping For?
Thinking of buying something soon? Let’s do a mock comparison—tell me two products you’re eyeing, and we’ll "park them in the hangar" together.
Rebecca Winning, long-time resident of Colorado and recent retiree, has launched Lullaby of Love, Selected Poems, published by Indian Paintbrush Poets/Pearn and Associates and available on Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.
The book takes you on a journey through Winning’s midwestern upbringing, relationships, deep connection with the natural world and meditations on finding meaning. It includes previously published poems from her early years, as well as 30 new, previously unpublished poems. Fans of Mary Oliver and Jane Hirshfield will appreciate her simple language and striking imagery as she explores themes of human frailty and connection, reverence for the natural world, and the intersection of the seen and unseen.
“I’m thrilled to be writing again,” Winning said. “I had some success in my early years; then life intervened – as it often does – and the writing suffered. Now that I’m retired, I’m thrilled to be achieving my life-long dream and getting the work out there.”
Winning was born in Springfield, Illinois in 1952 and grew up in the Midwest. She received a BA in English from DePauw University in 1974, attended creative writing classes at Sangamon State University, and received an MA in Creative Writing from the University of Denver in 1979. Her first book, A Cure for Backache and Other Poems was published in the Sangamon Poets series in 1977; a second book, A Marriage Pact and Other Poems was published by Moonsquilt Press in 1983. In 1984, she was selected to participate in the Artists in Education Program, sponsored by the Illinois Council on the Arts and Humanities. Her work, including poetry and short stories, has also appeared in a number of literary journals and received numerous awards.
Winning lives in Littleton, Colorado with her husband Jack, with whom she shares two daughters, Shelli and Melissa; a son-in-law, Scott; and four grandchildren, Matthew, Archer, Holland and Walker.
Learn more at rebeccawinningwriter.com
This all-day family-friendly festival offers a talented line-up of artists including Sam Grisman Project with the Leslies, Flobots, Christie Huff, YAN YEZ, Hand Turkey Band, and Non-Prophet
Mountain Music Fest is thrilled to announce its second annual family-friendly festival that brings out families from across the state to pull up their lawn chairs among the towering pine trees and majestic mountain views of Evergreen’s Buchanan Park (32003 Ellingwood Trail, Evergreen, Colorado). The festival kicks off on August 16, 2025 from noon to 9 p.m. This toe-tapping festival brings the fun, while all proceeds from this event will benefit the Wooden Hawk Foundation’s educational projects throughout the community. Organizers describe the event as “one part carnival, one part music festival”.
"Mountain Music Fest is so much more than a concert. It's a hands-on learning experience and a community celebration. Through the festival, students take the lead in everything from marketing and ticketing to stage production, sound, and lighting - even performing on stage,” said Michele Vanags, Wooden Hawk Foundation Chair. “It’s an opportunity for them to gain real-world skills while expressing their creativity and leadership. We also invite student clubs and organizations to host booths on the field, where they can raise funds and awareness through fun, donation-based activities. Best of all, every dollar of net proceeds goes right back into our schools, supporting Wooden Hawk Foundation projects like the Evergreen High School Futures Center and Alumni Center. It’s a festival with purpose, powered by students and supported by the community,” she added.
This year’s Mountain Music lineup showcases a mix of homegrown Colorado talent to nationally touring acts. The 2025 line-up includes:
Sam Grisman Project with the Leslies (7:30-9 p.m.)
Led by bassist Sam Grisman, the Sam Grisman Project (SGP) brings together a talented group of friends to honor the musical legacy of Sam’s father, David “Dawg” Grisman, and his close collaborator, Jerry Garcia. SGP delivers intimate, high-energy acoustic performances around condenser mics, blending Garcia/Hunter classics, Dawg tunes, Dylan deep cuts, traditional folk, and original songs from the ensemble.
Dominick Leslie & The Leslies (7:30-9 p.m.)
Dominick Leslie and his family band, The Leslies, will be joining the headline act, the Sam Grisman Project, for a special collaborative performance that celebrates the heart of American roots music. A proud Evergreen native, Dominick is the acclaimed mandolinist of the two-time Grammy Award-winning Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway. Raised in a musical household, he carries forward the rich bluegrass tradition of The Leslies, a Colorado family band known for their soulful harmonies and instrumental prowess. This rare appearance promises a powerful blend of legacy, talent, and musical kinship on stage.
Flobots (5:45-6:45 p.m.)
Denver’s own Flobots is an experimental hip-hop band formed in 2005 by Jamie Laurie. The band’s origins date back five years earlier to a similar project by Laurie. Flobots found mainstream success with their major label debut Fight with Tools (2007), featuring the single “Handlebars”, which became a popular hit on Modern Rock radio in April 2008. The band has released four studio albums and one EP, with their latest Noenemies being released in May 2017.
Christie Huff (4:15-5:00 p.m.)
Christie Huff blends heartfelt country songwriting with a pop-soul edge. Raised in Arizona and now based in LA, she maintains strong Nashville ties through frequent co-writing trips. Known across LA and Orange County, Christie performs both solo acoustic and with her band, having graced iconic venues like The Hotel Café, The Mint, and The Viper Room. Christie has opened
for major acts including Jason Aldean, Billy Currington, Kip Moore, Toby Keith, and Bebe Rexha. Splitting her time between LA and Nashville, she’s a regular performer and writer, recently featured on The Ty Bentli Show and Whiskey Jam.
YAN YEZ (2:45-3:30 p.m.)
YAN YEZ is the sound of chaos working in perfect harmony. Raw yet polished. Nostalgic yet forward-thinking. Fun but never frivolous. This Denver-based Indie Post-Pop band has made a name for itself as a genre-defying act.
Hand Turkey Band (1:15-2:00 p.m.)
Formed to stay sane during the 2020 quarantine, Hand Turkey’s ongoing mission is to bring audiences high-energy groove-centered tunes to get people moving. With an eclectic background ranging from jazz composition to musical theater, Hand Turkey’s sound is a fresh take on classic funk, soul, and pop. Hand Turkey released their debut EP in May 2022 and has been playing shows all over the state since. Past performances include packed and sold-out shows at the Lost Lake Lounge, Globe Hall, the Aggie Theatre, and Cervantes Otherside. They just released their debut LP, “Time & Time Again” streaming now on all platforms. Lead singer, Andy Seracuse was an Evergreen High School graduate.
Non-Prophet (12-12:30 p.m.)
Non-Prophet is a band of students from the local Morrison-Conifer area and winners of Conifer’s Got Talent. The contest, combined with Evergreen’s Got Talent, featured 32 musicians ages 8 to 19 who made up 19 musical acts. They competed to win slots in this summer’s Evergreen area music events, including Mountain Music Fest.
Beyond the music, Mountain Music Fest focuses on what the event is centered around. The Community. The Mountain Music Fest is a celebration of student talent and diversity. Throughout the festival grounds, attendees will find booths featuring the myriad of student clubs, organizations, arts, and sports teams showcasing interests and engaging in interactive participation.
There will be games, contests, and a wide variety of entertaining action. This includes an appearance from Mr. Goody Goody, the clown, who will be on hand creating magical balloon sculptures. Face painting from Lamar Lopez, the artist and owner of Fab Faces Entertainment. Guests can cool off with a splash at the Young Rotarians dunk tank. There will also be several delectable food and drink options available on site.
Tickets are currently on sale for this summer's event. General admission tickets are $25 in advance and $30 the day of the event. Children’s tickets are available for ages 6-18 for $10 (on-site only). Children under 6 years old receive free entrance. Tickets can be purchased here.
About Mountain Music Fest
Mountain Music Fest is a 9-hour celebration of music set against the stunning backdrop of Evergreen, Colorado. Attendees can immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of Evergreen as the outdoor stage transforms into a haven for music enthusiasts. The festival promises an unparalleled experience that goes beyond music. Proceeds from the event support students through the Wooden Hawk Foundation. For more information, please visit https://mountainmusicfest.org/. You can also follow along on social media on Instagram and Facebook.
About Wooden Hawk Foundation
The mission of the Wooden Hawk Foundation is to provide ongoing support to the mountain community school system through charitable and educational initiatives. The organization is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and empowerment by offering mentoring programs, career counseling, and similar opportunities that enrich the lives and educational experiences of students within the area. The foundation is committed to making a positive and lasting impact, nurturing the growth and development of both the community and the school system. For more information, please visit https://woodenhawkfoundation.org/. More details can be found on the organization’s Instagram and Facebook pages.
60 years ago three enterprising Coloradans, Jim Boyd, Reese Boatman and Karl Obluda decided to start an old-fashioned dairy at a time when supermarkets were dramatically changing how American’s shopped. With a modest dairy herd, an old milk truck and a small processing plant behind the Boyd home, Longmont Dairy Farm was born and quickly became a local institution.
Over the years the company has embraced innovation and technology to keep up with a growing customer base, expanding routes and more product offerings. When David and Susan Boyd took over in 1988 as second-generation owners, they began growing Longmont Dairy into a more sophisticated business. The Boyd’s bought a larger farm and expanded the existing barn to milk more cows, launched a website with order forms and created the company’s still-popular holiday eggnog bottle design contest.
In 2008, the dairy continued its technological advancement by implementing systems to help customers manage their accounts more efficiently and moved from paper route books and maps to GPS-led online delivery management systems.
Now in its third generation of ownership, co-owners and siblings, Dan Boyd and Katie Copeland, balance expanding the business’ footprint while continuing their grandfather’s original mission of providing fresh milk in glass bottles from the dairy’s cows directly to customers along the Front Range.
“The greater impact of success isn’t what you change, but rather what you don’t change,” said Boyd. “What we have done best is stay true to who we are and maintain the people, processes and products that have driven the success of the company. The wins and losses are up to God, but you’ve got to put the work in. We are honored every day to have one of the hardest working staff in our industry.”
Throughout the years, the company has become a part of the community fabric, not just in Longmont but in the surrounding areas. Its Milk Caps for Mooola program, which encourages students to recycle milk caps at their school in exchange for cash, recently hit a milestone of 15 million milk caps collected, resulting in $750,000 donated to more than 400 local schools over the years.
“It means so much that we are part of the community, whether it’s through our Milk Caps program or just knowing that our customers still pop by the office regularly to catch up or phone us the old-fashioned way,” said co-owner Katie Copeland. “When we bought the business from our parents ten years ago, we were committed to carrying forward their values and devotion to their customers.”
In 2018, Longmont Dairy embarked on a plant renovation and expansion, which allowed it to start brewing its own tea and cold brew coffee, which have become staples for their loyal customer base. The events of 2020 saw a dramatic increase in people requesting delivery services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The company pivoted by adding additional daytime deliveries to accommodate the demand.
To honor Longmont Dairy’s 60th anniversary the company is celebrating its employees and customers through a variety of recognitions, contests and giveaways that will be shared via their newsletter and social media platforms.
Opening a business is a huge leap: a leap of faith and a leap of trust in yourself and your community. Thankfully, for the past year, we've felt the support of this amazing Boulder community; fellow dental professionals who have welcomed us into the space, patients who've known me for years who have chosen to follow me on this new adventure and from our family & friends who've supported us the whole way through.
My family & I lived in Boulder previously and after pediatric dental residency, we moved back with the hope and expectation I could practice here for the rest of my career. I worked at Little Britches under the guidance of Dr. Richard Abrams, a pillar of the local dental community for many years who took me under his wing with the understanding I would inherit his legacy & practice when he was ready to retire. When the time came, the practice had a bid on it from another practice and because business is still business, and since as a person and not a business I couldn't raise the funds to match their offer, I had to leave the practice I loved.
With a lot of support and encouragement though, we decided to open up in South Boulder (which is where my family and I live); it's a new practice with a philosophy of prevention & a focus on education. We focus on the patient experience and try our best to make each child (and family) feel welcome and understood. We also try out best to be involved with the community we serve; we put on presentations at local pre- and elementary schools; we've partnered with I Have A Dream (a wonderful organization) to help improve the oral health of children in our community; we've given presentations with organizations connected to Boulder County and this summer we'll be doing fun activities for summer camps.
We've just celebrated our one year being open. We're continuing to grow & I would love to encourage you to come check out our practice to see what really sets us apart & could make us a great fit for your family. Come on by for a visit; we'd love to meet you!
Leading full-time, tuition-free online public school offers expanded college and career readiness program
Colorado Connections Academy is excited to announce that enrollment is now open for students in grades K-12 for the 2025-26 school year. Families across Colorado seeking a personalized and high-quality online education can now enroll in this tuition-free, full-time online public school.
New for the 2025-26 academic year, Colorado Connections Academy will launch its expanded College and Early Career Readiness program for middle and high school students. The school will integrate traditional academic subjects with industry-leading, career-focused options like IT, business, health sciences and marketing. This new program will equip students with durable skills like leadership, critical thinking and teamwork. Students can participate in career exploration and industry networking opportunities to build confidence, make connections and find direction to prepare for their future.
"Every single person in the Colorado Connections Academy family plays a critical role in the success of our school and online school community," said Kyla Bernstein, K-8 Principal and Co-Interim School Leader at Colorado Connections Academy. "Together, we work daily to ensure our students are successful both academically and personally, and it is amazing to see that work in action. We know that virtual school may not be the right fit for every student, but for those students who want or need this option, we truly see them thrive."
Virtual school is an excellent fit for a variety of students, and each student is unique. Colorado Connections Academy students are diverse and come from different backgrounds and educational histories. Some students are academically advanced and struggle in a traditional school setting, while others prefer to learn at their own pace. Other students may be experiencing health challenges or bullying, while some are athletes or performers who require a flexible learning schedule.
"I train 15 to 17 hours a week, sometimes twice a day. Colorado Connections Academy has given me the flexibility to balance school with my passion for speed skating," said Payten Hutto, a 15-year-old Team USA inline speed skater and Colorado Connections Academy sophomore. "With my flexible schedule, I train and travel for competitions while staying on top of my schoolwork."
Payten is a first-year junior on Team USA and has been a student at Colorado Connections Academy for three years. After years of intense training, she secured a spot on Team USA as the youngest female skater this year.
Colorado Connections Academy is committed to providing a high-quality personalized education to meet each student's needs. Using accessible technology, the school connects parents, teachers and students from home or anywhere there is an internet connection. Students experience a classroom that fully engages them with interactive web tools, student planners, live online classroom sessions, tailored multimedia lessons, teacher support and helpful resources.
Colorado Connections Academy students have regular opportunities to share ideas, compare experiences and have fun learning with their peers through online classroom sessions. Students can also join clubs, field trips, events and other activities throughout the year. The flexible schedule also allows students time to play sports, create art, volunteer or pursue their passions outside the virtual classroom.
Enrollment for the 2025-26 school year is now open for grades K-12. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to attend an online information session to learn more, ask questions and discover if virtual school is the right fit for their students. For more information about Colorado Connections Academy or to begin the enrollment process, please call 1-833-591-0251 or visit http://www.ColoradoConnectionsAcademy.com.
About Colorado Connections Academy
Colorado Connections Academy is a unique, tuition-free, online public school for students in grades K-12. Colorado Connections Academy creates a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills and confidence they need to direct their own educational journey, learning to thrive in the real world by first learning how to be resourceful and resilient. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251 or visit http://www.ColoradoConnectionsAcademy.com.
At Friends of Coal Creek, we are big believers in the power of art to connect hearts to places. And so, in collaboration with the Lafayette Art’s Council, we are proud to announce a Young Poets Competition. The theme is Transitions and entrants are asked to find inspiration in the areas of Coal Creek where one type of land, ideas or themes meets another.
The submission window is open now through February 15, 2025, and is open to all middle- and high school students who live or attend school within the Coal Creek communities (Lafayette, Erie, Louisville, Superior and Golden).
The contest has cash prizes for first ($100), second ($50), and third ($30) place winners in four categories:
High school - Spanish
High school - English
Middle school - Spanish
Middle school - English.
ZBassSpeaks, Lafayette’s poet laureate, is our esteemed judge.
“It is with great honor that I get to be part of this project, and even more so that I will get to hear from a new generation of writers,” ZBassSpeaks says. “I look forward to hearing your voices transcribed in my favorite art form. Your participation gives me great confidence that I will be blown away by your unique styles and views of our world. I encourage you to bring everything to the table and I implore you to be as expressive as you feel necessary. Good luck!”
Prizes will be awarded at an event at the Lafayette Public Library in April, 2025, which is National Poetry Month.
See here for full submission guidelines. If you know a talented middle- or high-schooler who has a way with words, please send them our way and help us share and celebrate the ways our young poets see our creek.
Friends of Coal Creek is a local nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the habitat value and improving the resilience of Coal Creek and the communities along its run.
Quantum computing is often heralded as the key to solving humanity’s greatest challenges. With its ability to process complex calculations at speeds unimaginable by traditional computers, this revolutionary technology promises breakthroughs in fields such as medicine, climate science, and logistics.
As one proponent of the technology stated in a recent Westword article, "The world is going to look fundamentally different because of quantum technology… The biggest problems that humanity faces, other than people being mean to each other, are going to be solved inside this box.” (—“Coldest Place in the Universe is at Colorado School of Mines,” https://www.westword.com/news/coldest-place-in-the-universe-is-at-colorado-school-of-mines-23147403). Such optimism is infectious, but it overlooks a critical question: What happens to humanity’s diversity when any single solution is applied to everyone?
While the allure of universal solutions is undeniable, their implications deserve scrutiny. Humanity thrives on diversity—not only in our cultures and values but in our approaches to solving problems. A universal solution, no matter how technologically advanced, risks imposing a singular framework that diminishes the richness of human experience. As we move closer to an era shaped by quantum computing, we must consider whether these solutions will serve humanity or merely standardize it, stripping away the autonomy and uniqueness that make life meaningful.
The Promise of Quantum Computing
Quantum computing is a leap forward in technology. By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, it can solve problems that are currently intractable, from modeling complex biological systems to optimizing global supply chains. Imagine a world where infectious diseases are eradicated, cancers cured, and the effects of climate change reversed. These are not far-fetched fantasies but tangible goals that quantum computing may help achieve. The promise of universal solutions lies in their efficiency and scalability.
A cure for cancer could save millions of lives, and a global strategy for climate change could avert catastrophe. These solutions appeal to our desire for progress, offering hope in the face of overwhelming challenges. Yet, as history has shown, the pursuit of universal answers often comes with unintended consequences. It’s one thing to find a cure for cancer, but quite another to “determine” the best courses of action for everyone.
If such a program operates on the same assumption that our current governing systems do—centralized, concentrated power—then the program will merely digitize and further empower the dysfunctional, dehumanizing way of life we already endure. Instead of liberating humanity, quantum computing could inadvertently reinforce systems of control, imposing a singular vision of progress that leaves little room for human autonomy or diversity.
Technological Layers: Red Herrings in the Quest for Natural Living
One critical question is whether technological solutions truly bring us closer to solving humanity’s problems or whether they entangle us in layers of technological complexity that divert us from the natural lives we should be living. Modern technologies often build upon themselves, creating intricate systems that require constant maintenance, innovation, and energy.
These layers of technology may appear to be progress, but they risk becoming distractions—or red herrings—that lead us further from a simpler, more harmonious existence. For instance, instead of addressing the root causes of climate change, such as overconsumption and unsustainable lifestyles, many proposed technological solutions focus on mitigating its effects. Carbon capture technologies, while impressive, may perpetuate industries that contribute to the problem, delaying the necessary shift to sustainable living.
Similarly, advancements in quantum computing could solve logistical inefficiencies, but at what cost? If the solutions require further dependence on technology and centralized systems, they may entrench the very problems they aim to solve. The more we rely on technology to fix what is broken, the more we risk losing touch with the natural rhythms of life. Instead of fostering deeper connections to the environment and each other, we become increasingly dependent on artificial systems that prioritize efficiency over meaning, convenience over community, and control over coexistence.
The Purpose of Life: Learning vs. Imposed Solutions
If life is meant to be a learning experience, then the imposition of the "best" technological solutions risks defeating its very purpose. The process of grappling with challenges, making mistakes, and evolving through experience is what makes life meaningful. To have these experiences preemptively solved by technology not only strips away our agency but also undermines the essential nature of our existence. Humanity’s growth is shaped by overcoming adversity. Struggles—whether personal, social, or environmental—offer opportunities for reflection, innovation, and development. If the “best” universal solutions are handed to us by technology, we bypass the essential process of learning and adapting.
In a world where everything is "solved," we may lose the drive to improve, to think critically, or to collaborate with one another. What if the best solutions are decided by the community instead of my computer logic? In essence, technology that offers one-size-fits-all solutions may provide temporary advancement, but it ultimately prevents us from engaging with life’s deeper lessons. It creates a society where convenience trumps the richness of the human experience, where learning is no longer valued because the answers are already predetermined.
By seeking to eliminate the struggle with universal solutions, we risk eliminating the very essence of life itself—the ongoing journey of growth and self-discovery.
Should Humanity Conform to Technology?
One of the most pressing questions in the age of quantum computing is whether humanity should conform to the systems created by technologists. The answer, unequivocally, is no. Technology should serve humanity, not dictate how we live. Yet, as systems become more complex and integrated into daily life, they increasingly shape our choices, behaviors, and even our identities.
This raises several concerns. First, the individuals and corporations designing these systems may not fully understand or consider the cultural, ethical, and social implications of their work. Second, the pursuit of universal solutions often prioritizes efficiency over the human experience, erasing the nuances that make life meaningful. And finally, there is the risk of coercion—of forcing individuals and communities to adapt to systems that fail to reflect their values or needs.
Instead of humanity conforming to technology, technology should empower humanity. This means creating systems that respect the autonomy of individuals and communities, prioritize inclusivity, and reflect the diversity of human life. A world shaped by technology should be one where people retain control over their destinies, not one where their choices are dictated by algorithms.
Instead of seeking universal solutions, we should aim for technologies that empower diverse, localized approaches. Quantum computing has the potential to enhance humanity’s capacity for problem-solving without imposing a single vision of progress.
For example, it could be used to model climate scenarios tailored to specific regions, enabling communities to develop solutions that align with their unique needs and values. Inclusive design and participatory innovation are key to this approach. By involving a wide range of voices in the development of quantum technologies, we can ensure that the resulting solutions respect and reflect humanity’s diversity. This requires humility and a willingness to accept that no single solution will work for everyone—a lesson history has taught us time and again.
"Be Careful With That"
While Quantum computing holds immense promise, its power comes with responsibility. As we develop and deploy this transformative technology, we must resist the temptation to impose universal solutions that prioritize efficiency over humanity. The greatest technological achievements will not be those that homogenize the world but those that celebrate its complexity, empowering individuals and communities to thrive on their own terms.
As we stand on the brink of a quantum revolution, we must ask ourselves: Should the world conform to the creations of technologists? The answer lies in our collective commitment to ensuring that technology serves humanity—not the other way around. While solving problems is wonderful, the future of humanity should not be decided “inside this box.” It should be shaped by the collective wisdom, creativity, and diversity of people around the world. Let’s ensure that our technological advancements serve humanity, not diminish it.
