GAY PRIDE MONTH in Lyons – Despite some storm clouds, the event went off as planned. There was a good attendance of people of all ages. Multiple organizations ran vendor tables, handing out brochures, and explaining to each person what they offered. Also, almost every booth had a “spin the wheel” opportunity to win a small prize. Free ice cream, face painting, flowered wreaths, and more. The parade walked the downtown streets, with friendly greetings from store owners and cars driving by. (See Photo Spread ARTICLE in our next edition)
PRIDE EVENTS in DENVER this weekend: ===(1) Friday, June 21st, at One Colorado’s Pink Party. This event kicks off Denver Pride weekend and is a fundraiser to support One Colorado’s 501c4 efforts to elect pro-equality candidates across the state. The success of this event relies heavily on volunteer efforts, and we hope you’ll join our team in the fun! Sign up for a night surrounded by all things pink here. ===(2.) Vendors at Denver Pride on Saturday, June 22nd or Sunday, June 23rd. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m ===(3) March in the Denver Pride Parade: Sunday, June 23 in the Denver Pride Parade.
“You Flourish” is a web site for LGBTQ+ Resources == https://www.you-flourish.com== A mental health app by and for the LGBTQ+ community. Connect and find care in one place. Find community and support to tap into your authentic self, all within a digital app. Safe. Inclusive. Secure.
Lyons GARDEN CLUB HOME GARDEN TOUR: It was a hot sunny day, and almost 300 people enjoyed the tour of eight venues in Lyons. See our ARTICLE for more details and photos!
NO GOOD OLD DAYS in JUNE. Yes, once again and permanently, we are making this announcement. == But there will be a HISTORY DAY put on by the Lyons history museum this Saturday, June 22, at 1p.m. See our ARTICLE for details.
STILL OPENINGS for the LEAF’s “Front Porch” free wellness one day and multi-week programs: www.LyonsLeaf.org
- Recovery Support Group
- Individual Therapy support
- Nature Based Wellness (emotional awareness in the outdoors)
- Spend Time with Horses (mindfulness and stress relief)
- Therapeutic Drumming
- Forest Bathing (nature based walk in woods)
- Sober Art for Adults (twice monthy)
- Grief Work (8 week support group)
LYONS VOLUNTEERS: LEAF needs you: The number of people on this list has dwindled, but the need by local residents in need has not. For example, one senior had to have his air conditioner put in his window, and no one was available for more than a week; and with 90 degree weather this is a health risk. Please contact LEAF to inquire.
SORT YARDS: New rules this year! Did you know that you have to put pine needles, and pine cones in those “garden paper bags”? Check out their web page; or see our new upcoming article.
REMINDER: The Post Office is closed every day from 12 to 1p.m. for lunch.
GOATS ARE BACK! == The fire mitigation crew arrived on McConnell Rd. in mid-June. Drive by with the kids (human kids!) and see the 50 goats. Watch out – some areas in town might have electric fencing; there WILL be signs!
North Boulder Library === Celebrate thegrand openingof the newNorth Boulder (NoBo) Librarywith free food, free drinks, music, a bilingual storytime, the unveiling of a new interactive public art piece, and festive activities for all ages. Saturday, June 29, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., NoBo Library 4500 13th Street.
LOOSE DOGS: Some people in Larimer County / Pinewood Springs have had loose dogs scare them or injure them or their dogs. They should call Larimer County Animal Control. It is a conundrum, because you would think that when you move into the “wilds of Colorado” that you could let your dog go loose — but Pinewood is a community of homes, and has laws.
ROCKY FLATS ===(1) Don’t forget the book signing is tonight, June 20th, 7p.m. – there is a limit as to how many can attend due to “fire code”, so be sure you rsvp per the Article last week ===(2) I got an email from local John Hall (who ran Hall Ranch) in response to the article… he said… I wanted to share an experience I once had … “ROCKY FLATS” … you see, at one time I was offered a Lease to Graze Cattle on the pasture ground there, but my gut feeling was, that I would not be able butcher and eat the meat from an animal that had grazed in that area, and if I felt that what way about myself, there was no-way I could sell my cattle that had grazed there, on the open market, whereby other folks unknowing would be or might be eating something that I would not eat myself! So, I turned down the Offer! I honestly have no idea what went on over there after that and I have never been sorry that I did what I did, either! …That is a true story in the life of an “Old Cowboy”, by the name of, John Hall” ==== (3). Another local, Kitty Keim, said the following: “I read this book with special interest, because we raised our children in South Boulder, just a few miles away from Rocky Flats. My in-laws lived in Arvada, even closer. My sister and I participated in the Encircle Rocky Flats protest in the early 80’s” ===== as stated in my article, at least four people said to me that they participated in the Encirclement protest. KS === rsvp here: maximum of 90 people allowed in the room. FACEBOOK RSVP LINK
PICKLEBALL === Lyons Parks Dept. has arranged to have the courts painted the end of June.
Fire Department PANCAKE FUNDRAISER is June 29th, 9-12 noon. Plus Silent Auction, and live band. See our ARTICLE.
FIREWORKS RULES: The Boulder County Sheriff’s office wanted to remind residents about Fireworks in the Town of Lyons. At this time, there is not a fire ban in our area. However, there has been no measurable precipitation in our region and we may enter a ban if it continues to stay hot and dry. The Boulder County Sheriff would make that determination and would announce any changes or fire bans. == must be 16 years old or older == Permissible Fireworks (if no fire restrictions are in place): Cylindrical or cone fountains, wheels and ground spinners, illuminating torches and colored fire, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellant or toy smoke devices, trick noise makers and snake or glow worms are all permissible when fire restrictions are not in effect.
See our ARTICLE for a list of the Front Range and Denver 4th of July events! We will repost the link ON the 4th, on our Facebook page, but we wanted you to plan ahead.
===ARTS & CULTURE ===
PUZZLES – free puzzle boxes at the library. Check the lobby area, just inside the door. A fun way to spend time with family and kids out-of-school, or take camping.
MOVIE THEATERS ===(1) For those of you who used to drive to Denver to see “art films,” you may like to know that the Esquire Theater is closing its doors after 97 years! ===(2). The Estes Park theater is looking at closing in August. It has started a subscription service to try and make enough money to pay its bills, but so far only 200 have subscribed, and they need 2,000 people.
LAVERN STATUTE: The Lyons Arts & Humanities Commission is looking for donations to raise $6,000 to finish off the statute of Lyons Matriarch LaVern Johnson. It will be unveiled July 24, at 4:30p.m. More info to come.
TATTERED COVER BOOK STORE has got an offer to buy, from Barnes & Noble for 1.8 million dollars. Seems awful low, but they are in bankruptcy, and that calls for bargain prices. The deal now has to be approved by the bankruptcy judge. The NAME and the STORES will remain “as is” under the new owner.
===SCHOOL ** and ** KID NEWS===
Schools will reopen in mid-August.
NOTE: there is a free lunch program going on; contact the school for more details.
Go Skateboarding Dayon June 21. This global event encourages skateboarders of all ages and skill levels to celebrate the joy and culture of skateboarding, and this year, Can’d Aid is bringing its mission to the forefront by supporting underserved communities by giving youth access to skateboards. ==== Can’d Aid’s Treads + Trails program, which aims to get children off screens and outside living healthy, active lives, has been a beacon of support for underprivileged communities since its inception. Over the past 11 years, Can’d Aid has built and donated more than 8,000 skateboards at over 200 events with the help of more than 10,000 volunteers.
HONORING GRADUATING TEENS who come from LYONS PIONEER Families, for 70 years – this Saturday 1p.m. Lyons Redstone Museum – Hammans and Vasquez families. See our ARTICLE for the family history.
An instrument called “STEAM” has been built entirely by students at the University of Colorado Boulder. It is ready to be integrated on a NASA spacecraft that will launch in early 2025. NASA’s PUNCH mission is aimed at helping scientists better understand the sun. PUNCH is a small NASA explorer that will be in low Earth orbit for about two years.
==Local ACCIDENTS ==
6/14/24 Highway 36 to Boulder was closed just before the carpet store for an overturned truck.
6/18/24 Highway 66 between Lyons and Longmont was closed due to a terrible motorcycle accident, with detour via Hygiene.
6/18 – Pinewood Springs residents were almost home, while riding their motorcycle, when a deer jumped on them, and they rolled 50 feet. Their daughter and family were in a car behind them and took care of them, while they waited for an airlift. Both suffered brain bleeding and more. Their future condition is unknown at this time.
Multiple “water rescues” due to high water in our rivers.
===CONSTRUCTION==
LYONS – BROADWAY – old “white lane lines” were blackened in June. There are also some construction cones out on the curve, to guide people around the new layout.
Hwy 36 between Lyons and Estes Park had lane striping painted June 10 to 12, with delays of up to 15 minutes, and signs suggesting people take Hwy. 7. It took longer than they thought it would, and they didn’t finish until the evening of Thursday, June 13. On the last day, the waiting line was five miles long.
Hwy 36, between Lyons and Estes Park – ROAD DAMAGE: Several of the people in Pinewood Springs have been in contact with CDOT about the dangerous condition of parts of the road, some of which looks like there is only “inches” between the asphalt road and the drop off. The first set of complaint resulted in them saying that they were aware of it and they put up a road sign saying “Road Damage” — the second set of complaints in early June resulted in them saying that the repairs were out to bid with an engineering company, and whatever remains that is outside of the scope of the contractor, CDOT would take care of.
===BUSINESS NEWS===
FIRE DAMAGED “LOT” for SALE – the owners of the lot on Main Street at 400-404 Main, are putting it up for sale. Sounds reasonable at $450,000. As you know four businesses were destroyed, and the asbestos has been removed, and all of the structure down to the dirt has been removed. (It’s a big hole, with a fence around it).
Parkway Food Hall opened Memorial Day in Longmont. See our ARTICLE this week – —- Rosetta Hall, 1109 Walnut St., Boulder, was voted the best place to have a business lunch in Boulder.
NO MORE BAKERY GOODS from DAIRY Bar – the amazing bakery chef Sharla has left, as of this week. It was a reliable place to get quality baked goods – like specialty cakes, and Holiday cakes. === Surprise! Cory has sold his business (a few months ago) to a family, who has new ideas on how to run it, which they have been slowly implementing. Notice any difference?
Cemex’s Lyons cement plant received thePortland Cement Association(PCA) 2024 Chairman’s Safety Performance Award, which is awarded to the top 10 percent of cement plants nationwide for those that demonstrate exceptional safety performance. Recipients are selected based on quantitative data recorded by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. (Note; Cemex acquired the Lyons plant in 2000)
The new Lyons’ Excalibur Games store is advertising daily on Facebook the games that are being played in their new store. You might want to “follow” their Facebook page.
“BEST OF BOULDER” competition by Boulder Weekly: see our ARTICLE. Did you know that Spirt Hound has won Best Distillery for nine years running? FARA got a couple of awards. And six other restaurants. Oskar Blues was voted the best restaurant in Lyons!
===NATURE/Wildlife ===
SUMMER SOLSTICE arrives at 2:15p.m. today, Thursday, June 20th. It’s the earliest one in 228 years.
RIVERS CLOSED: The Boulder Sheriff’s Office has closed the Boulder Creek, and Lyons’ North Saint Vrain and Saint Vrain Creek. They are closed to tubing and single chamber flotation devices for the immediate future. 6/18/2024.
Each year the St Vrain River rises in spring and early summer due to snow melt in the mountains. If you are interested in knowing the current rate of flow through town, the best site is the State’s gage station. CO Water Discharge
BOOK on Bear Stress?! == Jackie Brennan, Lyons, suggested a book that would be perfect for Lyons folks: “How to Cope with Bears, Traffic, and the Rest of Life’s Stressors — the Art of Taking it Easy”
BEAR: the young bear wandering around Lyons this month has been declared a “youth” or yearling by the Colorado dept. of wildlife, and so they are leaving it alone. That means it is on your shoulders to scare it away with loud noises, and not leave food out for it. One resident reported a bear immediately attacked his trash can that he put out just before the garbage truck was scheduled to pick it up. He has tried hazing it. === Both Estes Park and Lyons people stated that a bear climbed up the poles to their porch! Don’t trust the height of your deck as being a deterrent to them climbing up to good smelling food.
PINEWOOD SPRINGS – (1) big brown bear wandering around; Spotted at 1:40pm! on Elk Rd. And around Crescent Lake AND 3 other streets! — (2) big mtn lion spotted around Choctaw Rd. area (seen on video cam at night) — (3) Doe and two fawn seen spotted around three homes (videos taken)
HIKING FIRE DAMAGED TRAILS/FORESTS: TheCameron Peak Fire Closure Orderis still in place with roads closed to allow for natural recovery and while adjacentforest management projectstake place. It is always best to check theroad status pagefor the latest information. Work will be taking place throughout the summer season to improve conditions, including on Black Hollow Road (NFSR 142) and Ballard Road (NFSR 129).======= For visitors looking to explore on foot, snowdrifts and downed trees from the recent wind events will make travel difficult. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and clothing to travel through mud and snow. With over 1,300 miles of trails, specific conditions for each trail are not available, but we do have many great partners who help reporttrail conditions on their websites. Thanks to the hard work of our volunteer organizations on Canyon Lakes Ranger District, 1,300 trees have been cleared from trails so far in 2024, compared to 500 trees in 2023.
LOCAL ADVICE ON Bears =====(1) Ben Jammin: If anyone is curious, I’m always glad to show my setup/advise on electric fencing. I have bird feeders, beehives, vegetable gardens, compost all protected in various ways by safe and reliable DIY arrangements. The bears don’t even come in to the yardanymore, they know something easier will be just down the road despite the attractants =====(2) Robyn Sloan: There are ways to enjoy birds without involving bears. Put your hummingbird feeder on a pulley, at least 10 feet up or more, you don’t even have to take it in at night. Put out a bird bath. The water attracts birds, insects, and specially bees if youput a few stones in it. Only put out seed feeders in the winter after bears have gone into hibernation and remove them in the spring. Leave a pair of binoculars by a window along with a field guide to local birds. You don’t have to totally give up what you enjoy to keep bears safe. ….. I always plant what hummingbirds like. They need the protein from bugs, because sugar water is really just junk food for them. There’s some compromises necessary in feeding hummers. One of the greatest joys my Grandmother had in the nursing home was watching hummingbirds and other birds. It was one of the few ways she could still see wildlife. =====(3) Diana Paxton: let me say with PERSONAL knowledge that the hummingbird feeder on a pulley is not really a good idea. Did you know bears are very good climbers even on a metal pole? And also very good at trying to “walk” pull themselves on a high wire? —The birdbath is awesome EXCEPT when the larger animals come to drink out it and know it’s there. (Thanks critter cameras)– There are lots of natural rocks that collect/hold rainwater (or maybe a garden hose water) –So I stick with flowers, perennials that live in the natural environment, and thrilled when I see nature doing what nature intended. Sort of. –I know it is so enjoyable watching nature. We just have to be diligent. (Keep feeders fresh, small, and bring them in every night.) –Just my opinion from personal experiences living in the mountains/forest. ==== NOTE: most principalities have ordinances on electric fencing, so check before you take that step.
BEAR – Robyn Sloan, our local wildcam reporter, said that the 3 brown bears that have been showing up this spring are now hanging around for summer.
MT LION – Robyn Sloan reported on what she saw on her wild-cam: This mother mountain lion showed up with her 3 kittens this week after dark. I think it’s Nicky, the female with the nick in her right ear, but without a clear view I can’t be sure. Her 2 adolescent sons left her last fall so she probably came into estrus in November or December. Gestation is 3 months so if this is her, these kittens are probably 3-4 months old now.
A couple of people reported that they have seen a prairie dog in Lyons. One was downtown, and the other was by Horizon drive. These are single dogs, and not a colony!
RMNP Fall River Entrance Construction—The construction is ongoing and should be complete later this summer. There is currently one lane in through the Fall River Entrance with one kiosk and two windows operations when staffing allows. RMNP Grand Lake Entrance Construction—Construction has begun on the Grand Lake Entrance ranger station that was destroyed during the East Troublesome Fire in October of 2020. At least one lane entering the park and one lane exiting the park will be maintained during construction.
RMNP – 6/17/24 — Old Fall River Road, located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park. The road is closed to all uses (including pedestrians and cyclists) Tuesdays through Fridays between the hours of 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This closure is expected to remain in place through the month of June. Road is open to pedestrians and cyclists on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays; the road is also open to these users Tuesdays through Fridays after 4:30 p.m.
Repeat: WANT A SNAKE REMOVED & Relocated? – call locals Gil Sparks 509-679-3346; and Gwydion Winklemeyer 325-428-6202
Repeat: BEE SWARM HOTLINE: 844-779-2337
RMNP TIMED ENTRY for DAY USE: See ARTICLE for details
===GOVERNMENT===
Deadline to vote: June 25, 7p.m. – State-wide Primary for Democrats and Republicans. the last recommended day to mail it is Monday, June 17. Postmarks do not count.== any Colorado voter may return their mail ballot to any 24-hour ballot drop box in any county.== You can drop off a ballot of another person; however, it is a violation of law to receive more than 10 ballots for mailing or delivery in any election == Voting Centers are now open (not in Lyons). ==== Note on Primary Voting:PLEASE vote in the Colorado Primary — even if your candidate does NOT have a challenger. Voting in the Primary allows the candidates to plan their outreach to voters.===Unaffiliated voters will get 2 ballots – Dems and Republicans, and receive a “secrecy sleeve” for the 1 ballot they return. Affiliated voters will receive 1 ballot (for their party) and NO “secrecy sleeve”.
SEAT BELT TICKETS: Days are getting longer and hotter, prompting Colorado residents to head outdoors and soak up the sun. With more travelers hitting the road the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and 60 partnering law enforcement agencies held the longest seat belt enforcement period of the year from May 13 to June 2. The May Mobilization Click It or Ticket enforcement resulted in 1,760 drivers ticketed for not wearing a seat belt or having unbuckled passengers. The Colorado Department of Transportation oversees the implementation of the campaign. During the campaign, 73 drivers were cited for improperly restrained children in their vehicle. Also, 125 teenagers were cited for not wearing a seat belt.
MEET your BOT at the Wednesday SUMMER CONCERTS: Members of the Board of Trustees will have a community engagement table for residents to chat with a trustee.
Biden Administration banned “medical debt” from showing up on credit reports in making decisions on getting credit.
Contact town hall to register your golf cart, or obtain your parking pass. Residents should show their utility bill. See the Town web site for more details.
June 13, House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse was joined by gun violence prevention leaders from across the Democratic Caucus for a press conference in honor of National Gun Violence Prevention Awareness Month. The Assistant Leader was joined by Gun Violence Prevention Task Force Chair Mike Thompson, as well as Task Force Members Lucy McBath, Robin Kelly, Norma Torres, and Maxwell Frost for a fierce call to act swiftly to advance common sense regulations that will help save lives.
Federal Reserve officials said Wednesday 6/12/24 that inflation has fallen further toward their target level of 2.% in recent months but signaled that they expect to cut their benchmark interest rate just once this year, and it would most likely be in December.
NEW FINES: the BOT has voted to increase the court fines, making them closer to matching other cities. The ticket surcharges will go from $25 on animal ordinance violation tickets to $35 (that results in a conviction). Accident fine will go from $30, as court costs, to $50. See Town hall for more detailed explanations, if necessary.
Spirit Hound Distillers has asked for an extension to do the construction work connected to their storage building (formerly Clark’s Hardware); and it wasnt given what they asked for, but it was given an extension. This is tied in with the proposed St. Vrain Trail behind the building.
IGA TASKFORCE COMMITTEE: They have already met! You can see their Agendas and Minutes on the Town web page. Here is a list of the new members (17 people applied):
- Julie Jacobs
- Charles Stevenson
- Wendy Miller
- Martin Soosloff
- Sonny Smith
- Doug Matthews
- Cindy Fischer
- Jen Wingard (Alternate)
- Barney Dreistady (PCDC Liaison)
- David Hamrick (BOT Liaison)
- Andrew Bowen (Staff Liaison)
===SPORTS===
PICKLEBALL – NEW Longmont: By popular demand from its members,The Fox Hill Country Clubtoday announced the addition of six state-of-the-art pickleball courts. Located in Longmont, the premier private country club converted two of its existing outdoor tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts, ensuring members can enjoy this rapidly growing sport while maintaining its commitment to exceptional tennis facilities.
Longmont offers free summer swimming classes: see their web site to sign up =Outdoor group swim lessons are available at Sunset Pool and Kanemoto Activity Pool.==Sunset: Outdoor, heated pool for all class options and a sandy beach for siblings to play in.==Kanemoto: Offers classes for Aqua Babies, Aqua Tot 1 & 2. Pool temperature is set to 86 degrees.
***the following are repeat “links” ****
Lyons Parks — everything you need to know about picnicking, parking, renting, swimming, tents, camping and more — see ARTICLE — includes info on Planet Bluegrass parking reserved dates.
Lyons Softball League You can see who is playing and the scores on Facebook “Lyons Rec Softball.” Come on down and support your locals — this is Lyons residents only and such a good way to spend a summer day! (in Bohn Park)
LYONS LIONS CLUB GOLF Tournament and fundraiser: They have now opened up the site to register for the annual golf tournament. August 5; $125 per player. Download the form to start registering your team. They are also looking for SPONSORS for the popular event. Contact Scott Lieding or Gerry Tabor for more information. SIGN UP LINK
OLYMPICS 2024,July 26 – August 11, 2024.
TOWN OF LYONS has spring and summer classes and camps – register. Many are free. REGISTER
==Special ENTERTAINMENT ==
SeeTHINGS TO DOfor more special events like this.
==Longmont Downtown Summer Nights: Music PLUS Prizes! — Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night (after 5pm) from June 20 – August 31, visit participating businesses, make a purchase, get a stamp, and win prizes! Pick up a punch card at any of the 25 businesses. MORE INFO
July 27 – COSTUME CRAWL in LONGMONT: Join local businesses for monthly theme days and costume crawls throughout downtown Longmont the last Saturday of every month. Visit participating businesses for fun challenges, games, activities, food & drink specials, photo opportunities, and more! This months’ theme is ‘Summer Games’, so break out your swim caps, track pants, sweat bands, and medalsfor a fun day and night on the town!Check the Costume Crawl webpagefrequently for activities and specials to be added!
==Mark your Calendar: Lyons Community Foundation (LCF) and Lyons Emergency Fund (LEAF) Fourth Annual Hootenanny at River Bend is happening on August 25, 2024!== they are seeking sponsors
GAY PRIDE MONTH in Lyons – Despite some storm clouds, the event went off as planned. There was a good attendance of people of all ages. Multiple organizations ran vendor tables, handing out brochures, and explaining to each person what they offered. Also, almost every booth had a “spin the wheel” opportunity to win a small prize. Free ice cream, face painting, flowered wreaths, and more. The parade walked the downtown streets, with friendly greetings from store owners and cars driving by. (See Photo Spread ARTICLE in our next edition)
PRIDE EVENTS in DENVER this weekend: ===(1) Friday, June 21st, at One Colorado’s Pink Party. This event kicks off Denver Pride weekend and is a fundraiser to support One Colorado’s 501c4 efforts to elect pro-equality candidates across the state. The success of this event relies heavily on volunteer efforts, and we hope you’ll join our team in the fun! Sign up for a night surrounded by all things pink here. ===(2.) Vendors at Denver Pride on Saturday, June 22nd or Sunday, June 23rd. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m ===(3) March in the Denver Pride Parade: Sunday, June 23 in the Denver Pride Parade.
“You Flourish” is a web site for LGBTQ+ Resources == https://www.you-flourish.com== A mental health app by and for the LGBTQ+ community. Connect and find care in one place. Find community and support to tap into your authentic self, all within a digital app. Safe. Inclusive. Secure.
Lyons GARDEN CLUB HOME GARDEN TOUR: It was a hot sunny day, and almost 300 people enjoyed the tour of eight venues in Lyons. See our ARTICLE for more details and photos!
NO GOOD OLD DAYS in JUNE. Yes, once again and permanently, we are making this announcement. == But there will be a HISTORY DAY put on by the Lyons history museum this Saturday, June 22, at 1p.m. See our ARTICLE for details.
STILL OPENINGS for the LEAF’s “Front Porch” free wellness one day and multi-week programs: www.LyonsLeaf.org
- Recovery Support Group
- Individual Therapy support
- Nature Based Wellness (emotional awareness in the outdoors)
- Spend Time with Horses (mindfulness and stress relief)
- Therapeutic Drumming
- Forest Bathing (nature based walk in woods)
- Sober Art for Adults (twice monthy)
- Grief Work (8 week support group)
LYONS VOLUNTEERS: LEAF needs you: The number of people on this list has dwindled, but the need by local residents in need has not. For example, one senior had to have his air conditioner put in his window, and no one was available for more than a week; and with 90 degree weather this is a health risk. Please contact LEAF to inquire.
SORT YARDS: New rules this year! Did you know that you have to put pine needles, and pine cones in those “garden paper bags”? Check out their web page; or see our new upcoming article.
PINEWOOD Springs==Join the neighborhood for the annual 4th of July Parade,Thursday, July 4 at 11:00 a.m. on Kiowa Rd. between Arapahoe/Seneca and Wichita. Come out and decorate your bikes and horses and join in. Or cheer on the sidelines. Afterwards, hang around for a while. Stop by the PSPOA tent for goodies, meet our Firefighters and enjoy chatting with your neighbors as we celebrate Independence Day!
REMINDER: The Post Office is closed every day from 12 to 1p.m. for lunch.
GOATS ARE BACK! == The fire mitigation crew arrived on McConnell Rd. in mid-June. Drive by with the kids (human kids!) and see the 50 goats. Watch out – some areas in town might have electric fencing; there WILL be signs!
North Boulder Library === Celebrate thegrand openingof the newNorth Boulder (NoBo) Librarywith free food, free drinks, music, a bilingual storytime, the unveiling of a new interactive public art piece, and festive activities for all ages. Saturday, June 29, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., NoBo Library 4500 13th Street.
LOOSE DOGS: Some people in Larimer County / Pinewood Springs have had loose dogs scare them or injure them or their dogs. They should call Larimer County Animal Control. It is a conundrum, because you would think that when you move into the “wilds of Colorado” that you could let your dog go loose — but Pinewood is a community of homes, and has laws.
ROCKY FLATS ===(1) Don’t forget the book signing is tonight, June 20th, 7p.m. – there is a limit as to how many can attend due to “fire code”, so be sure you rsvp per the Article last week ===(2) I got an email from local John Hall (who ran Hall Ranch) in response to the article… he said… I wanted to share an experience I once had … “ROCKY FLATS” … you see, at one time I was offered a Lease to Graze Cattle on the pasture ground there, but my gut feeling was, that I would not be able butcher and eat the meat from an animal that had grazed in that area, and if I felt that what way about myself, there was no-way I could sell my cattle that had grazed there, on the open market, whereby other folks unknowing would be or might be eating something that I would not eat myself! So, I turned down the Offer! I honestly have no idea what went on over there after that and I have never been sorry that I did what I did, either! …That is a true story in the life of an “Old Cowboy”, by the name of, John Hall” ==== (3). Another local, Kitty Keim, said the following: “I read this book with special interest, because we raised our children in South Boulder, just a few miles away from Rocky Flats. My in-laws lived in Arvada, even closer. My sister and I participated in the Encircle Rocky Flats protest in the early 80’s” ===== as stated in my article, at least four people said to me that they participated in the Encirclement protest. KS === rsvp here: maximum of 90 people allowed in the room. FACEBOOK RSVP LINK
PICKLEBALL === Lyons Parks Dept. has arranged to have the courts painted the end of June.
Fire Department PANCAKE FUNDRAISER is June 29th, 9-12 noon. Plus Silent Auction, and live band. See our ARTICLE.
FIREWORKS RULES: The Boulder County Sheriff’s office wanted to remind residents about Fireworks in the Town of Lyons. At this time, there is not a fire ban in our area. However, there has been no measurable precipitation in our region and we may enter a ban if it continues to stay hot and dry. The Boulder County Sheriff would make that determination and would announce any changes or fire bans. == must be 16 years old or older == Permissible Fireworks (if no fire restrictions are in place): Cylindrical or cone fountains, wheels and ground spinners, illuminating torches and colored fire, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellant or toy smoke devices, trick noise makers and snake or glow worms are all permissible when fire restrictions are not in effect.
See our ARTICLE for a list of the Front Range and Denver 4th of July events! We will repost the link ON the 4th, on our Facebook page, but we wanted you to plan ahead.
===ARTS & CULTURE ===
PUZZLES – free puzzle boxes at the library. Check the lobby area, just inside the door. A fun way to spend time with family and kids out-of-school, or take camping.
MOVIE THEATERS ===(1) For those of you who used to drive to Denver to see “art films,” you may like to know that the Esquire Theater is closing its doors after 97 years! ===(2). The Estes Park theater is looking at closing in August. It has started a subscription service to try and make enough money to pay its bills, but so far only 200 have subscribed, and they need 2,000 people.
LAVERN STATUTE: The Lyons Arts & Humanities Commission is looking for donations to raise $6,000 to finish off the statute of Lyons Matriarch LaVern Johnson. It will be unveiled July 24, at 4:30p.m. More info to come.
TATTERED COVER BOOK STORE has got an offer to buy, from Barnes & Noble for 1.8 million dollars. Seems awful low, but they are in bankruptcy, and that calls for bargain prices. The deal now has to be approved by the bankruptcy judge. The NAME and the STORES will remain “as is” under the new owner.
===SCHOOL ** and ** KID NEWS===
Schools will reopen in mid-August.
NOTE: there is a free lunch program going on; contact the school for more details.
Go Skateboarding Dayon June 21. This global event encourages skateboarders of all ages and skill levels to celebrate the joy and culture of skateboarding, and this year, Can’d Aid is bringing its mission to the forefront by supporting underserved communities by giving youth access to skateboards. ==== Can’d Aid’s Treads + Trails program, which aims to get children off screens and outside living healthy, active lives, has been a beacon of support for underprivileged communities since its inception. Over the past 11 years, Can’d Aid has built and donated more than 8,000 skateboards at over 200 events with the help of more than 10,000 volunteers.
HONORING GRADUATING TEENS who come from LYONS PIONEER Families, for 70 years – this Saturday 1p.m. Lyons Redstone Museum – Hammans and Vasquez families. See our ARTICLE for the family history.
An instrument called “STEAM” has been built entirely by students at the University of Colorado Boulder. It is ready to be integrated on a NASA spacecraft that will launch in early 2025. NASA’s PUNCH mission is aimed at helping scientists better understand the sun. PUNCH is a small NASA explorer that will be in low Earth orbit for about two years.
==Local ACCIDENTS ==
6/14/24 Highway 36 to Boulder was closed just before the carpet store for an overturned truck.
6/18/24 Highway 66 between Lyons and Longmont was closed due to a terrible motorcycle accident, with detour via Hygiene.
6/18 – Pinewood Springs residents were almost home, while riding their motorcycle, when a deer jumped on them, and they rolled 50 feet. Their daughter and family were in a car behind them and took care of them, while they waited for an airlift. Both suffered brain bleeding and more. Their future condition is unknown at this time.
Multiple “water rescues” due to high water in our rivers.
===CONSTRUCTION==
LYONS – BROADWAY – old “white lane lines” were blackened in June. There are also some construction cones out on the curve, to guide people around the new layout.
Hwy 36 between Lyons and Estes Park had lane striping painted June 10 to 12, with delays of up to 15 minutes, and signs suggesting people take Hwy. 7. It took longer than they thought it would, and they didn’t finish until the evening of Thursday, June 13. On the last day, the waiting line was five miles long.
Hwy 36, between Lyons and Estes Park – ROAD DAMAGE: Several of the people in Pinewood Springs have been in contact with CDOT about the dangerous condition of parts of the road, some of which looks like there is only “inches” between the asphalt road and the drop off. The first set of complaint resulted in them saying that they were aware of it and they put up a road sign saying “Road Damage” — the second set of complaints in early June resulted in them saying that the repairs were out to bid with an engineering company, and whatever remains that is outside of the scope of the contractor, CDOT would take care of.
===BUSINESS NEWS===
FIRE DAMAGED “LOT” for SALE – the owners of the lot on Main Street at 400-404 Main, are putting it up for sale. Sounds reasonable at $450,000. As you know four businesses were destroyed, and the asbestos has been removed, and all of the structure down to the dirt has been removed. (It’s a big hole, with a fence around it).
Parkway Food Hall opened Memorial Day in Longmont. See our ARTICLE this week – —- Rosetta Hall, 1109 Walnut St., Boulder, was voted the best place to have a business lunch in Boulder.
SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL — breaking news – will come to Boulder in 2027. More news to come.
NO MORE BAKERY GOODS from DAIRY Bar – the amazing bakery chef Sharla has left, as of this week. It was a reliable place to get quality baked goods – like specialty cakes, and Holiday cakes. === Surprise! Cory has sold his business (a few months ago) to a family, who has new ideas on how to run it, which they have been slowly implementing. Notice any difference?
Cemex’s Lyons cement plant received thePortland Cement Association(PCA) 2024 Chairman’s Safety Performance Award, which is awarded to the top 10 percent of cement plants nationwide for those that demonstrate exceptional safety performance. Recipients are selected based on quantitative data recorded by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. (Note; Cemex acquired the Lyons plant in 2000)
The new Lyons’ Excalibur Games store is advertising daily on Facebook the games that are being played in their new store. You might want to “follow” their Facebook page.
“BEST OF BOULDER” competition by Boulder Weekly: see our ARTICLE. Did you know that Spirt Hound has won Best Distillery for nine years running? FARA got a couple of awards. And six other restaurants. Oskar Blues was voted the best restaurant in Lyons!
===NATURE/Wildlife ===
SUMMER SOLSTICE arrives at 2:15p.m. today, Thursday, June 20th. It’s the earliest one in 228 years.
RIVERS CLOSED: The Boulder Sheriff’s Office has closed the Boulder Creek, and Lyons’ North Saint Vrain and Saint Vrain Creek. They are closed to tubing and single chamber flotation devices for the immediate future. 6/18/2024.
****BREAKING NEWS 3pm 6/21/24 == “tubing ban” rescinded ***
Each year the St Vrain River rises in spring and early summer due to snow melt in the mountains. If you are interested in knowing the current rate of flow through town, the best site is the State’s gage station. CO Water Discharge
BOOK on Bear Stress?! == Jackie Brennan, Lyons, suggested a book that would be perfect for Lyons folks: “How to Cope with Bears, Traffic, and the Rest of Life’s Stressors — the Art of Taking it Easy”
BEAR: the young bear wandering around Lyons this month has been declared a “youth” or yearling by the Colorado dept. of wildlife, and so they are leaving it alone. That means it is on your shoulders to scare it away with loud noises, and not leave food out for it. One resident reported a bear immediately attacked his trash can that he put out just before the garbage truck was scheduled to pick it up. He has tried hazing it. === Both Estes Park and Lyons people stated that a bear climbed up the poles to their porch! Don’t trust the height of your deck as being a deterrent to them climbing up to good smelling food.
PINEWOOD SPRINGS – (1) big brown bear wandering around; Spotted at 1:40pm! on Elk Rd. And around Crescent Lake AND 3 other streets! — (2) big mtn lion spotted around Choctaw Rd. area (seen on video cam at night) — (3) Doe and two fawn seen spotted around three homes (videos taken)
HIKING FIRE DAMAGED TRAILS/FORESTS: TheCameron Peak Fire Closure Orderis still in place with roads closed to allow for natural recovery and while adjacentforest management projectstake place. It is always best to check theroad status pagefor the latest information. Work will be taking place throughout the summer season to improve conditions, including on Black Hollow Road (NFSR 142) and Ballard Road (NFSR 129).======= For visitors looking to explore on foot, snowdrifts and downed trees from the recent wind events will make travel difficult. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and clothing to travel through mud and snow. With over 1,300 miles of trails, specific conditions for each trail are not available, but we do have many great partners who help reporttrail conditions on their websites. Thanks to the hard work of our volunteer organizations on Canyon Lakes Ranger District, 1,300 trees have been cleared from trails so far in 2024, compared to 500 trees in 2023.
LOCAL ADVICE ON Bears =====(1) Ben Jammin: If anyone is curious, I’m always glad to show my setup/advise on electric fencing. I have bird feeders, beehives, vegetable gardens, compost all protected in various ways by safe and reliable DIY arrangements. The bears don’t even come in to the yardanymore, they know something easier will be just down the road despite the attractants =====(2) Robyn Sloan: There are ways to enjoy birds without involving bears. Put your hummingbird feeder on a pulley, at least 10 feet up or more, you don’t even have to take it in at night. Put out a bird bath. The water attracts birds, insects, and specially bees if youput a few stones in it. Only put out seed feeders in the winter after bears have gone into hibernation and remove them in the spring. Leave a pair of binoculars by a window along with a field guide to local birds. You don’t have to totally give up what you enjoy to keep bears safe. ….. I always plant what hummingbirds like. They need the protein from bugs, because sugar water is really just junk food for them. There’s some compromises necessary in feeding hummers. One of the greatest joys my Grandmother had in the nursing home was watching hummingbirds and other birds. It was one of the few ways she could still see wildlife. =====(3) Diana Paxton: let me say with PERSONAL knowledge that the hummingbird feeder on a pulley is not really a good idea. Did you know bears are very good climbers even on a metal pole? And also very good at trying to “walk” pull themselves on a high wire? —The birdbath is awesome EXCEPT when the larger animals come to drink out it and know it’s there. (Thanks critter cameras)– There are lots of natural rocks that collect/hold rainwater (or maybe a garden hose water) –So I stick with flowers, perennials that live in the natural environment, and thrilled when I see nature doing what nature intended. Sort of. –I know it is so enjoyable watching nature. We just have to be diligent. (Keep feeders fresh, small, and bring them in every night.) –Just my opinion from personal experiences living in the mountains/forest. ==== NOTE: most principalities have ordinances on electric fencing, so check before you take that step.
BEAR – Robyn Sloan, our local wildcam reporter, said that the 3 brown bears that have been showing up this spring are now hanging around for summer.
MT LION – Robyn Sloan reported on what she saw on her wild-cam: This mother mountain lion showed up with her 3 kittens this week after dark. I think it’s Nicky, the female with the nick in her right ear, but without a clear view I can’t be sure. Her 2 adolescent sons left her last fall so she probably came into estrus in November or December. Gestation is 3 months so if this is her, these kittens are probably 3-4 months old now.
A couple of people reported that they have seen a prairie dog in Lyons. One was downtown, and the other was by Horizon drive. These are single dogs, and not a colony!
RMNP Fall River Entrance Construction—The construction is ongoing and should be complete later this summer. There is currently one lane in through the Fall River Entrance with one kiosk and two windows operations when staffing allows. RMNP Grand Lake Entrance Construction—Construction has begun on the Grand Lake Entrance ranger station that was destroyed during the East Troublesome Fire in October of 2020. At least one lane entering the park and one lane exiting the park will be maintained during construction.
RMNP – 6/17/24 — Old Fall River Road, located on the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park. The road is closed to all uses (including pedestrians and cyclists) Tuesdays through Fridays between the hours of 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This closure is expected to remain in place through the month of June. Road is open to pedestrians and cyclists on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays; the road is also open to these users Tuesdays through Fridays after 4:30 p.m.
Repeat: WANT A SNAKE REMOVED & Relocated? – call locals Gil Sparks 509-679-3346; and Gwydion Winklemeyer 325-428-6202
Repeat: BEE SWARM HOTLINE: 844-779-2337
RMNP TIMED ENTRY for DAY USE: See ARTICLE for details
===GOVERNMENT===
Deadline to vote: June 25, 7p.m. – State-wide Primary for Democrats and Republicans. the last recommended day to mail it is Monday, June 17. Postmarks do not count.== any Colorado voter may return their mail ballot to any 24-hour ballot drop box in any county.== You can drop off a ballot of another person; however, it is a violation of law to receive more than 10 ballots for mailing or delivery in any election == Voting Centers are now open (not in Lyons). ==== Note on Primary Voting:PLEASE vote in the Colorado Primary — even if your candidate does NOT have a challenger. Voting in the Primary allows the candidates to plan their outreach to voters.===Unaffiliated voters will get 2 ballots – Dems and Republicans, and receive a “secrecy sleeve” for the 1 ballot they return. Affiliated voters will receive 1 ballot (for their party) and NO “secrecy sleeve”.
SEAT BELT TICKETS: Days are getting longer and hotter, prompting Colorado residents to head outdoors and soak up the sun. With more travelers hitting the road the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) and 60 partnering law enforcement agencies held the longest seat belt enforcement period of the year from May 13 to June 2. The May Mobilization Click It or Ticket enforcement resulted in 1,760 drivers ticketed for not wearing a seat belt or having unbuckled passengers. The Colorado Department of Transportation oversees the implementation of the campaign. During the campaign, 73 drivers were cited for improperly restrained children in their vehicle. Also, 125 teenagers were cited for not wearing a seat belt.
MEET your BOT at the Wednesday SUMMER CONCERTS: Members of the Board of Trustees will have a community engagement table for residents to chat with a trustee.
Biden Administration banned “medical debt” from showing up on credit reports in making decisions on getting credit.
Contact town hall to register your golf cart, or obtain your parking pass. Residents should show their utility bill. See the Town web site for more details.
June 13, House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse was joined by gun violence prevention leaders (task force) from across the Democratic Caucus for a press conference in honor of National Gun Violence Prevention Awareness Month. For a fierce call to act swiftly to advance common sense regulations that will help save lives.
The Supreme Court, last Friday, struck down a ban on bump stocks. These rapid-fire gun accessories have been used in the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.
Federal Reserve officials said Wednesday 6/12/24 that inflation has fallen further toward their target level of 2.% in recent months but signaled that they expect to cut their benchmark interest rate just once this year, and it would most likely be in December.
NEW FINES: the BOT has voted to increase the court fines, making them closer to matching other cities. The ticket surcharges will go from $25 on animal ordinance violation tickets to $35 (that results in a conviction). Accident fine will go from $30, as court costs, to $50. See Town hall for more detailed explanations, if necessary.
Spirit Hound Distillers has asked for an extension to do the construction work connected to their storage building (formerly Clark’s Hardware); and it wasnt given what they asked for, but it was given an extension. This is tied in with the proposed St. Vrain Trail behind the building.
IGA TASKFORCE COMMITTEE: They have already met! You can see their Agendas and Minutes on the Town web page. Here is a list of the new members (17 people applied):
- Julie Jacobs
- Charles Stevenson
- Wendy Miller
- Martin Soosloff
- Sonny Smith
- Doug Matthews
- Cindy Fischer
- Jen Wingard (Alternate)
- Barney Dreistady (PCDC Liaison)
- David Hamrick (BOT Liaison)
- Andrew Bowen (Staff Liaison)
===SPORTS===
PICKLEBALL – NEW Longmont: By popular demand from its members,The Fox Hill Country Clubtoday announced the addition of six state-of-the-art pickleball courts. Located in Longmont, the premier private country club converted two of its existing outdoor tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts, ensuring members can enjoy this rapidly growing sport while maintaining its commitment to exceptional tennis facilities.
Longmont offers free summer swimming classes: see their web site to sign up =Outdoor group swim lessons are available at Sunset Pool and Kanemoto Activity Pool.==Sunset: Outdoor, heated pool for all class options and a sandy beach for siblings to play in.==Kanemoto: Offers classes for Aqua Babies, Aqua Tot 1 & 2. Pool temperature is set to 86 degrees.
***the following are repeat “links” ****
Lyons Parks — everything you need to know about picnicking, parking, renting, swimming, tents, camping and more — see ARTICLE — includes info on Planet Bluegrass parking reserved dates.
Lyons Softball League You can see who is playing and the scores on Facebook “Lyons Rec Softball.” Come on down and support your locals — this is Lyons residents only and such a good way to spend a summer day! (in Bohn Park)
LYONS LIONS CLUB GOLF Tournament and fundraiser: They have now opened up the site to register for the annual golf tournament. August 5; $125 per player. Download the form to start registering your team. They are also looking for SPONSORS for the popular event. Contact Scott Lieding or Gerry Tabor for more information. SIGN UP LINK
OLYMPICS 2024,July 26 – August 11, 2024.
TOWN OF LYONS has spring and summer classes and camps – register. Many are free. REGISTER
==Special ENTERTAINMENT ==
SeeTHINGS TO DOfor more special events like this.
==Longmont Downtown Summer Nights: Music PLUS Prizes! — Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night (after 5pm) from June 20 – August 31, visit participating businesses, make a purchase, get a stamp, and win prizes! Pick up a punch card at any of the 25 businesses. MORE INFO
July 27 – COSTUME CRAWL in LONGMONT: Join local businesses for monthly theme days and costume crawls throughout downtown Longmont the last Saturday of every month. Visit participating businesses for fun challenges, games, activities, food & drink specials, photo opportunities, and more! This months’ theme is ‘Summer Games’, so break out your swim caps, track pants, sweat bands, and medalsfor a fun day and night on the town!Check the Costume Crawl webpagefrequently for activities and specials to be added!
==Mark your Calendar: Lyons Community Foundation (LCF) and Lyons Emergency Fund (LEAF) Fourth Annual Hootenanny at River Bend is happening on August 25, 2024!== they are seeking sponsors
