thedenverpost--2020-12-23--Wrap it up. With Denver’s supply of resales very low, six builders have holiday homes ready at lower

Wrap it up. With Denver’s supply of resales very low, six builders have holiday homes ready at lower costs

The days after Christmas are a moment when shoppers look for bargains that weren ’ t to be had coming into the holidays — and the place to look for those in the real estate market this year is from homebuilders , who often have inventory heading into the new year that they ’ re anxious to move .
This month , when resales around Denver are frighteningly sparse ( less than 3,500 homes for sale in the 11-county area ) and when the average single-family resale sold at well over $ 600,000 , builders are also a place to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cost-per-foot buy—not counting their new technology and fresh design features .
“ In the current market , many buyers have made multiple offers on resales and have lost out , and are not willing to pay an elevated price , ” says Emily Lonborg , co-owner of Steller Real Estate Group , a company experienced in representing buyers in new-build purchases .
“ People are turning to new builds because they can pick their own lot and location , and often can find lucrative incentives from the builder.
” Here are some specific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new year , some with homes available for move-in right away , all of them offering favorable prices compared to comparable resale homes .
1 .
Lakehouse at Sloan ’ s Lake by NAVA , set beside Denver ’ s Sloan ’ s Lake and the emerging Sloans Redevelopment community with its new dining and entertainment , is a chance to move right away into a community that ’ s totally oriented around health and wellness , in a setting with great opportunities for enjoying the outdoors — not just the park and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 26,000 sq.-foot terrace with pool , organic urban farm , and space for outdoor events coordinated by a full-time wellness concierge .
Residents have a fitness center , yoga/meditation studio , and a wide-open lounge area opening to the outdoors .
Prices range from just $ 499,000 for a new-urban-styled one-bedroom , to a penthouse with amazing views of city lights at $ 1.825 million .
In a year when many buyers plan to work from home , over half of remaining homes have dens .
WHERE : 4200 W. 17th Ave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 17th west 1 mile to Raleigh St , turn south to free onsite garage parking .
Or from Sheridan , take W. 17th east .
PRICE : Move soon $ 499,000 to $ 1.825M WHEN : Sun 10-5 , Mon-Tue 12-4 , Wed-Fri 10-5 PHONE : 303-974-4663 WEB : Lakehouse17.com 2 .
Estates on Gage Hill in Arvada by Sheffield is a rare opportunity for a new single-family home in one of Denver ’ s most enduringly popular suburbs , walking distance from The Arvada Center with its highly acclaimed indoor-outdoor performance venues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ site offering views from downtown Denver to Pikes Peak .
With just 21 available sites and a near-4,000-sq.-foot model that has already lured six sales , you can see two homes ready now ; and plans for a choice release of ranch designs that will all provide walkout lower levels .
All homes showcase Sheffield ’ s quality , including Tharp Custom Cabinets .
Buyers include families from central Denver who are captivated by a chance to purchase new homes with a view at costs comparable to smaller , dated houses in areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arriving from outside the state , wanting to be close to Colorado grandkids and to have Arvada ’ s great access to the mountains .
The Estates are five minutes from Olde Town Arvada and its Light Rail stop .
You ’ ll see a 4-bedroom/3.5-bath home with gourmet kitchen and 3-car garage , 3,925 sq .
feet , at $ 899,000 .
And ask about Sheffield ’ s Carr Estates , now taking lot reservations near 144th Ave. and Huron in Westminster .
WHERE : 4200 6694 Balsam St. , Arvada ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toward W. 52nd Ave , continue 2 mi to W. 68th Ave , turn left 5 blks to Balsam St. PRICE : Move now , $ 899,000 WHEN : Saturday and Sunday , noon-to-5 p.m .
PHONE : 720-943-6685 WEB : SheffieldHomes.com 3 .
The Village Castle Pines by Brookfield is a newly opened enclave of low-maintenance single-family homes created for 29 sites within the forested , gated expanse of The Village Castle Pines , one of the Denver area ’ s most exclusive communities , wrapped around a signature PGA country club @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 17 million renovation of its clubhouse ( golf and social memberships are available ) .
In a location just 15 minutes south of the Denver Tech Center , you can tour an alluring ranch model , showing lots of depth and premium finishes , along with several homes nearing completion — one of them a ranch design with finished basement space included , headed for early spring move-in at $ 867,700 .
Landscaping is installed and maintained in a combined community/HOA fee that provides access to The Village ’ s Canyon/Summit Clubs and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And homes are a short walk from Castle Pines ’ boutique-scaled shopping plaza with Tony ’ s Market and several 4/5-star dining options .
Brookfield Residential also has a collection of paired homes launching construction , with prices starting from the low $ 600s .
WHERE:7002 Homeplace Point , Castle Rock ; take I-25 south past Park Meadows , continue 7 mi .
to Exit 187/Happy Canyon ; turn right 2 miles to the 2nd roundabout ; turn right onto Castle Pines Drive to Gate 3 .
PRICE : From mid- $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ paired homes coming soon from low $ 600s WHEN : Daily from 10-5 , Sundays from 11-5 PHONE : 303-619-7658 WEB : BrookfieldResidential.com 4 .
Age-55-plus ranches by Toll Brothers are fast sellers in two south/southeast metro master-planned communities — including new Regency at Montaine , near Castle Rock ’ s highest point , where six model ranches share a spectacular view of the Rampart Range .
Early sales are attracted by 13 miles of planned trails ; 548 acres of open space ; and a planned 10,700-foot clubhouse with resort pool , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the $ 480s , and you can see premium sized Boulder Collection ranches with full-wide 3-car garage , starting in the $ 655s .
If you want to move now , you can tour Toll Brothers ’ popular Hilltop at Inspiration , with a location off E-470 near Parker that already has its clubhouse , pool and a calendar of activities in place — along with one ranch that will be ready for February move-in ; 1,714 finished sq .
feet , with gas fireplace , $ 539,995—way below the average Denver @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WHERE : Montaine , head south on I-25 past 470 , 13 mi .
to Plum Creek Pkwy , turn east 1 blk to Wilcox , turn south 2 mi .
to Crystal Valley Pkwy , east 1/2 mile to Plum Creek Blvd .
Inspiration : Exit E-470 at Gartrell Road , turn south 1 mile to Inspiration Lane .
PRICE : From upper $ 400s , quick move-in spring $ 796,000 WHEN : Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m .
PHONE : 720-649-5644 WEB : LiveMontaine.com 5 .
Independence , near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gigantic contrast to prices in the Denver area now — not just to resales , but also new-built homes in other new areas of Southeast .
Twelve minutes east of Parker , Independence promises to become Colorado ’ s most conservation-oriented neighborhood , with a full complement of planned amenities ; scenic open space comprising 40 % of its 1,011-acre expanse ; and very affordable single-family homes from Richmond American Homes and Lennar from the low $ 400s .
Both builders provide basements as standard features on everything built here .
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see a ‘ Hopewell ’ family-sized home ready for move-in right away — 2,680 sq .
feet in a 3-bedroom 2.5-bath plan , with a garden level basement , priced at just $ 541,865 — barely over the median sales price for resales in the Denver area last month .
Builders have additional incentives available now , including if you choose to start a home from scratch , with more time to save your down payment .
And Independence qualifies for special USDA financing , with 100 % financing for qualified buyers WHERE:1113 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parker Rd south past town of Parker 2 miles to Hess Rd , turn east on Hess ( becomes Hilltop Rd ) 5 miles , then angle left on Hilltop 3 more miles .
PRICE : From the mid- $ 400s WHEN : Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m .
PHONE : 720-649-5644 WEB : IndependenceDenver.com 6 .
Age-55-plus Heritage Todd Creek by Lennar creates a rare opportunity in Denver ’ s north-metro suburbs to downsize or re-size into an all-ranch single-family lifestyle in a setting that ’ s close to Arvada @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s newest neighborhood at Heritage Todd Creek is on an ‘ island ’ wrapped by the fairways of the Arthur Hills golf course , close to its attractive clubhouse , center for a wide array of community clubs and social activities .
You can tour attractive ranch models and see an ‘ Oxford ’ ready for move-in now—2-bedrooms/2-baths plus a study , at $ 549,750 , with Lennar ’ s ‘ Everything ’ s Included ’ features as part of the package .
Lennar has other ranches nearing completion ; if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or arrange a ‘ Safe and Simple ’ self-guided tour , those are available via the website .
WHERE : 15345 Willow St. , Thornton ; take I-25 north past 470 to Hwy 7 ; east 5 mi .
to Yosemite St. , turn south to Heritage Dr. , then west 3 blks to Willow .
PRICE : Move now $ 549,750 WHEN : Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. , Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m .
PHONE : 720-836-5195 WEB : Lennar.com/Denver A real estate company that helps you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by The Steller Group — a real estate firm with agents experienced in helping buyers make new-build home purchases .
Steller has six buyers under contract now on new builds , as low inventory and bidding wars prompt families to weigh the advantages of touring builder communities .
• December 18 , 2020 Sponsored : Big view of 55-plus living : At Montaine in Castle Rock , see ranches that match their wide-open surroundings • December 3 , 2020 Sponsored : Splendid seclusion .
In Snowmass Village , $ 200,000 buys partial ownership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • December 3 , 2020 Sponsored : Best ranches you ’ ve seen all year : Oakwood shows eight models in its new 55-plus enclave in Green Valley Ranch • November 27 , 2020 Sponsored : As Colorado gathers for a ‘ virtual ’ Thanksgiving , here are 15 ways to have grandparents living closer by in 2021 “ When buying directly from a builder , experienced agents work as advocates for our buyers : We help negotiate terms , and navigate construction and final inspections , ” says Emily Lonborg , co-owner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are a great alternative for senior-aged buyers , who can find several new age-55-plus communities in town .
Steller has webinars on specific issues faced by seniors in buying and selling , including two this coming month .
WEBINARS : Jan. 7 , 9:30-11 a.m. ‘ Decluttering & Where to Start ’ Jan. 21 , 9:30-11 a.m. ‘ Senior Buying Options : What ’ s Out There and Where to Start ’ PHONE : 720-593-9355 WEB : DenverSeniorSeminars.com The news and editorial staffs of The Denver Post had no role in this post @ @ @ @

The days after Christmas are a moment when shoppers look for bargains that weren’t to be had coming into the holidays — and the place to look for those in the real estate market this year is from homebuilders, who often have inventory heading into the new year that they’re anxious to move.
New Year’s Specials from Denver Area Builders What: Holiday weekend specials by six builders in Denver area, including some homes ready for move-in right away
Holiday weekend specials by six builders in Denver area, including some homes ready for move-in right away Where: Central Denver, Arvada, Aurora, Castle Pines, Castle Rock, Parker, Thornton
Central Denver, Arvada, Aurora, Castle Pines, Castle Rock, Parker, Thornton Price: From $499,000 to $1.825M
From $499,000 to $1.825M When: Check individual listings
Check individual listings More Info: denverpost.com/real-estate
This month, when resales around Denver are frighteningly sparse (less than 3,500 homes for sale in the 11-county area) and when the average single-family resale sold at well over $600,000, builders are also a place to look for home that are a better cost-per-foot buy—not counting their new technology and fresh design features.
“In the current market, many buyers have made multiple offers on resales and have lost out, and are not willing to pay an elevated price,” says Emily Lonborg, co-owner of Steller Real Estate Group, a company experienced in representing buyers in new-build purchases. “People are turning to new builds because they can pick their own lot and location, and often can find lucrative incentives from the builder.”
Here are some specific opportunities from six builders heading into the new year, some with homes available for move-in right away, all of them offering favorable prices compared to comparable resale homes.
Denver/Highlands
1. Lakehouse at Sloan’s Lake by NAVA, set beside Denver’s Sloan’s Lake and the emerging Sloans Redevelopment community with its new dining and entertainment, is a chance to move right away into a community that’s totally oriented around health and wellness, in a setting with great opportunities for enjoying the outdoors — not just the park and lake with their 2.6-mile trail, but a 26,000 sq.-foot terrace with pool, organic urban farm, and space for outdoor events coordinated by a full-time wellness concierge. Residents have a fitness center, yoga/meditation studio, and a wide-open lounge area opening to the outdoors.
Prices range from just $499,000 for a new-urban-styled one-bedroom, to a penthouse with amazing views of city lights at $1.825 million. In a year when many buyers plan to work from home, over half of remaining homes have dens.
WHERE: 4200 W. 17th Ave, Denver; from Federal take W. 17th west 1 mile to Raleigh St, turn south to free onsite garage parking. Or from Sheridan, take W. 17th east.
PRICE: Move soon $499,000 to $1.825M
WHEN: Sun 10-5, Mon-Tue 12-4, Wed-Fri 10-5
PHONE: 303-974-4663
WEB: Lakehouse17.com
Lakehouse at Sloan's Lake
Mark Samuelson Lakehouse at Sloan's Lake
Mark Samuelson Fitness room at Lakehouse at Sloan's Lake
Arvada
2. Estates on Gage Hill in Arvada by Sheffield is a rare opportunity for a new single-family home in one of Denver’s most enduringly popular suburbs, walking distance from The Arvada Center with its highly acclaimed indoor-outdoor performance venues, and situated on a prime hilltop site offering views from downtown Denver to Pikes Peak.
With just 21 available sites and a near-4,000-sq.-foot model that has already lured six sales, you can see two homes ready now; and plans for a choice release of ranch designs that will all provide walkout lower levels. All homes showcase Sheffield’s quality, including Tharp Custom Cabinets. Buyers include families from central Denver who are captivated by a chance to purchase new homes with a view at costs comparable to smaller, dated houses in areas like Highlands; as well as buyers arriving from outside the state, wanting to be close to Colorado grandkids and to have Arvada’s great access to the mountains. The Estates are five minutes from Olde Town Arvada and its Light Rail stop. You’ll see a 4-bedroom/3.5-bath home with gourmet kitchen and 3-car garage, 3,925 sq. feet, at $899,000. And ask about Sheffield’s Carr Estates, now taking lot reservations near 144th Ave. and Huron in Westminster.
WHERE: 4200 6694 Balsam St., Arvada; from I-70 head north on Wadsworth Blvd toward W. 52nd Ave, continue 2 mi to W. 68th Ave, turn left 5 blks to Balsam St.
PRICE: Move now, $899,000
WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, noon-to-5 p.m.
PHONE: 720-943-6685
WEB: SheffieldHomes.com
Mark Samuelson Estates on Gage Hill by Sheffield Homes
Mark Samuelson Estates on Gage Hill by Sheffield Homes
Mark Samuelson Estates on Gage Hill by Sheffield Homes
Mark Samuelson Estates on Gage Hill by Sheffield Homes
Castle Pines
3. The Village Castle Pines by Brookfield is a newly opened enclave of low-maintenance single-family homes created for 29 sites within the forested, gated expanse of The Village Castle Pines, one of the Denver area’s most exclusive communities, wrapped around a signature PGA country club that’s now seeing a $17 million renovation of its clubhouse (golf and social memberships are available). In a location just 15 minutes south of the Denver Tech Center, you can tour an alluring ranch model, showing lots of depth and premium finishes, along with several homes nearing completion — one of them a ranch design with finished basement space included, headed for early spring move-in at $867,700.
Landscaping is installed and maintained in a combined community/HOA fee that provides access to The Village’s Canyon/Summit Clubs and pools, and 24/7 manned security services. And homes are a short walk from Castle Pines’ boutique-scaled shopping plaza with Tony’s Market and several 4/5-star dining options. Brookfield Residential also has a collection of paired homes launching construction, with prices starting from the low $600s.
WHERE:7002 Homeplace Point, Castle Rock; take I-25 south past Park Meadows, continue 7 mi. to Exit 187/Happy Canyon; turn right 2 miles to the 2nd roundabout; turn right onto Castle Pines Drive to Gate 3.
PRICE: From mid-$700s; move soon $867,7900; paired homes coming soon from low $600s
WHEN: Daily from 10-5, Sundays from 11-5
PHONE: 303-619-7658
WEB: BrookfieldResidential.com
Mark Samuelson Brookfield Castle Pines
Mark Sameulson Brookfield Castle Pines
Castle Rock
4. Age-55-plus ranches by Toll Brothers are fast sellers in two south/southeast metro master-planned communities — including new Regency at Montaine, near Castle Rock’s highest point, where six model ranches share a spectacular view of the Rampart Range. Early sales are attracted by 13 miles of planned trails; 548 acres of open space; and a planned 10,700-foot clubhouse with resort pool, tennis and pickleball courts. Prices start in the $480s, and you can see premium sized Boulder Collection ranches with full-wide 3-car garage, starting in the $655s.
If you want to move now, you can tour Toll Brothers’ popular Hilltop at Inspiration, with a location off E-470 near Parker that already has its clubhouse, pool and a calendar of activities in place — along with one ranch that will be ready for February move-in; 1,714 finished sq. feet, with gas fireplace, $539,995—way below the average Denver area single-family sales price last month.
WHERE:Montaine, head south on I-25 past 470, 13 mi. to Plum Creek Pkwy, turn east 1 blk to Wilcox, turn south 2 mi. to Crystal Valley Pkwy, east 1/2 mile to Plum Creek Blvd. Inspiration: Exit E-470 at Gartrell Road, turn south 1 mile to Inspiration Lane.
PRICE: From upper $400s, quick move-in spring $796,000
WHEN: Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
PHONE: 720-649-5644
WEB: LiveMontaine.com
Mark Samuelson Toll Brothers Regency at Montaine
Mark Samuelson Toll Brothers Regency at Montaine
Mark Samuelson Toll Brothers Regency at Montaine
Mark Samuelson Toll Brothers Regency at Montaine
Parker
5. Independence, near Parker featuring 2 builders, offers a gigantic contrast to prices in the Denver area now — not just to resales, but also new-built homes in other new areas of Southeast. Twelve minutes east of Parker, Independence promises to become Colorado’s most conservation-oriented neighborhood, with a full complement of planned amenities; scenic open space comprising 40% of its 1,011-acre expanse; and very affordable single-family homes from Richmond American Homes and Lennar from the low $400s.
Both builders provide basements as standard features on everything built here. You can tour appealing models by both builders and see a ‘Hopewell’ family-sized home ready for move-in right away — 2,680 sq. feet in a 3-bedroom 2.5-bath plan, with a garden level basement, priced at just $541,865 — barely over the median sales price for resales in the Denver area last month. Builders have additional incentives available now, including if you choose to start a home from scratch, with more time to save your down payment. And Independence qualifies for special USDA financing, with 100% financing for qualified buyers
WHERE:1113 E. Witherspoon Dr., Elizabeth; take Parker Rd south past town of Parker 2 miles to Hess Rd, turn east on Hess (becomes Hilltop Rd) 5 miles, then angle left on Hilltop 3 more miles.
PRICE: From the mid-$400s
WHEN: Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
PHONE: 720-649-5644
WEB: IndependenceDenver.com
Mark Samuelson Independence
Mark Samuelson Independence
Mark Samuelson Independence
Thornton
6. Age-55-plus Heritage Todd Creek by Lennar creates a rare opportunity in Denver’s north-metro suburbs to downsize or re-size into an all-ranch single-family lifestyle in a setting that’s close to Arvada, Westminster, and Thornton. Lennar’s newest neighborhood at Heritage Todd Creek is on an ‘island’ wrapped by the fairways of the Arthur Hills golf course, close to its attractive clubhouse, center for a wide array of community clubs and social activities.
You can tour attractive ranch models and see an ‘Oxford’ ready for move-in now—2-bedrooms/2-baths plus a study, at $549,750, with Lennar’s ‘Everything’s Included’ features as part of the package. Lennar has other ranches nearing completion; if you’d rather take a virtual tour or arrange a ‘Safe and Simple’ self-guided tour, those are available via the website.
WHERE: 15345 Willow St., Thornton; take I-25 north past 470 to Hwy 7; east 5 mi. to Yosemite St., turn south to Heritage Dr., then west 3 blks to Willow.
PRICE: Move now $549,750
WHEN: Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
PHONE: 720-836-5195
WEB: Lennar.com/Denver
Mark Samuelson Lennar at Todd Creek
Mark Samuelson Lennar at Todd Creek
Mark Samuelson Lennar at Todd Creek
Mark Samuelson Lennar Todd Creek Kitchen
A real estate company that helps you navigate a new-built home purchase is offered by The Steller Group — a real estate firm with agents experienced in helping buyers make new-build home purchases. Steller has six buyers under contract now on new builds, as low inventory and bidding wars prompt families to weigh the advantages of touring builder communities.
“When buying directly from a builder, experienced agents work as advocates for our buyers: We help negotiate terms, and navigate construction and final inspections,” says Emily Lonborg, co-owner of Steller. She adds that new-builds are a great alternative for senior-aged buyers, who can find several new age-55-plus communities in town. Steller has webinars on specific issues faced by seniors in buying and selling, including two this coming month.
WEBINARS: Jan. 7, 9:30-11 a.m. ‘Decluttering & Where to Start’
Jan. 21, 9:30-11 a.m. ‘Senior Buying Options: What’s Out There and Where to Start’
PHONE: 720-593-9355
WEB:DenverSeniorSeminars.com
The news and editorial staffs of The Denver Post had no role in this post’s preparation.


thedenverpost--2020-12-23--Trump vetoes defense bill, setting up possible override vote

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Wednesday vetoed the annual defense policy bill , following through on threats to veto a measure that has broad bipartisan support in Congress and potentially setting up the first override vote of his presidency .
The bill affirms 3 % pay raises for U.S. troops and authorizes more than $ 740 billion in military programs and construction .
The action came while Trump was holed up at the White House , stewing about his election loss and escalating his standoff with Republicans as he pushed fraudulent conspiracy theories and tried to pressure them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The House was poised to return Monday , and the Senate on Tuesday , to consider votes to override the president ’ s veto .
Long before issuing the veto , Trump offered a series of rationales for rejecting it .
He has called for lawmakers to include limits on social media companies he claimed are biased against him — and to strip out language that allows for the renaming of military bases such as Fort Benning and Fort Hood that honor Confederate leaders .
Without going into detail , he has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bill would be China .
In his veto message to the House , Trump cited those objections and stated that the measure “ fails to include critical national security measures , includes provisions that fail to respect our veterans and our military ’ s history , and contradicts efforts by my Administration to put America first in our national security and foreign policy actions .
It is a ‘ gift ’ to China and Russia.
” He also wrote : “ Numerous provisions of the Act directly contradict my Administration ’ s foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our troops home .
Both the House and Senate passed the measure by margins large enough to override a veto from the president .
Trump had vetoed eight bills previously , but those vetoes were sustained because supporters did not gain the two-thirds vote needed in each chamber for the bill to become law without Trump ’ s signature .
In advance of the veto , Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , has said the bill would help deter Chinese aggression .
Other GOP backers of the measure , including Sen. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second-ranking Senate leader , and Rep. Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin , a member of the House Armed Services Committee , have tweeted that the bill would counter threats from countries such as China .
Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island , the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee , said Trump ’ s declaration that China was the biggest winner in the defense bill was false .
Reed also noted the shifting explanations Trump had given for the veto .
“ President Trump clearly hasn ’ t read the bill , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in it , ” Reed said .
“ There are several bipartisan provisions in here that get tougher on China than the Trump Administration has ever been.
” The measure guides Pentagon policy and cements decisions about troop levels , new weapons systems and military readiness , military personnel policy and other military goals .
Many programs can only go into effect if the bill is approved , including military construction .
McConnell , in a rare break with Trump , had urged passage despite Trump ’ s threat to veto it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to continue its nearly six-decade-long streak of passing the defense policy bill .

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump on Wednesday vetoed the annual defense policy bill, following through on threats to veto a measure that has broad bipartisan support in Congress and potentially setting up the first override vote of his presidency.
The bill affirms 3% pay raises for U.S. troops and authorizes more than $740 billion in military programs and construction.
The action came while Trump was holed up at the White House, stewing about his election loss and escalating his standoff with Republicans as he pushed fraudulent conspiracy theories and tried to pressure them to back his efforts to overturn the results.
The House was poised to return Monday, and the Senate on Tuesday, to consider votes to override the president’s veto.
Long before issuing the veto, Trump offered a series of rationales for rejecting it. He has called for lawmakers to include limits on social media companies he claimed are biased against him — and to strip out language that allows for the renaming of military bases such as Fort Benning and Fort Hood that honor Confederate leaders. Without going into detail, he has claimed the biggest winner from the defense bill would be China.
In his veto message to the House, Trump cited those objections and stated that the measure “fails to include critical national security measures, includes provisions that fail to respect our veterans and our military’s history, and contradicts efforts by my Administration to put America first in our national security and foreign policy actions. It is a ‘gift’ to China and Russia.”
He also wrote: “Numerous provisions of the Act directly contradict my Administration’s foreign policy, particularly my efforts to bring our troops home.
Both the House and Senate passed the measure by margins large enough to override a veto from the president. Trump had vetoed eight bills previously, but those vetoes were sustained because supporters did not gain the two-thirds vote needed in each chamber for the bill to become law without Trump’s signature.
In advance of the veto, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has said the bill would help deter Chinese aggression. Other GOP backers of the measure, including Sen. John Thune of South Dakota, the second-ranking Senate leader, and Rep. Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, have tweeted that the bill would counter threats from countries such as China.
Sen. Jack Reed of Rhode Island, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said Trump’s declaration that China was the biggest winner in the defense bill was false. Reed also noted the shifting explanations Trump had given for the veto.
“President Trump clearly hasn’t read the bill, nor does he understand what’s in it,” Reed said. “There are several bipartisan provisions in here that get tougher on China than the Trump Administration has ever been.”
The measure guides Pentagon policy and cements decisions about troop levels, new weapons systems and military readiness, military personnel policy and other military goals. Many programs can only go into effect if the bill is approved, including military construction.
McConnell, in a rare break with Trump, had urged passage despite Trump’s threat to veto it. McConnell said it was important for Congress to continue its nearly six-decade-long streak of passing the defense policy bill.


thedenverpost--2020-12-23--CU Buffs fueled by Utah loss heading into Alamo Bowl

Through the first four games of the season , the Colorado football team put itself in position for a possible Pac-12 South title .
In the fifth game , on Dec. 12 , the Buffaloes didn ’ t perform like usual in a 38-21 loss to Utah at Folsom Field , ending their winning streak and costing them a chance at winning the division .
After an unexpected bye last week , the Buffs ( 4-1 ) are still looking to make up for that loss .
That will contribute to their motivation on Tuesday when they play No .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Valero Alamo Bowl in San Antonio ( 7 p.m. , TV : ESPN ) .
• AP All-SEC football team : Classical Academy grad Anders Carlson of Auburn named to first team “ Just having that taste of a loss still in our mouths , not performing the way we really wanted to on the offensive line , that definitely add to our excitement to get back , ” tackle William Sherman said .
“ We want to run the ball well again like we ’ ve been doing all year .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we want to go out and prove in this game next Tuesday.
” Utah , which finished 3-2 on the season , may have been the best team CU has faced this season , and the Buffs lost star linebacker Nate Landman to a season-ending injury in the first half .
The Buffs did play like they did the first four weeks , however .
“ Disappointing performance , ” head coach Karl Dorrell said last week .
“ We weren ’ t playing as well as we normally would have played for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ missed tackles and dropped passes all added up in the loss .
Facing a good Texas team provides the Buffs an opportunity to prove themselves again .
“ We really wanted to showcase our talents and abilities versus Utah , ” Sherman said .
“ Obviously , as we know , we weren ’ t able to do that .
It didn ’ t end the way we wanted it to .
So , this is another big opportunity for us to do that and really go show the country how special Colorado @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brings back memories for CU running backs coach Darian Hagan .
As an option quarterback for the Buffs in 1989 – he was named Big Eight offensive player of the year the season – Hagan had his breakout performance against the Longhorns .
“ One of the things that I think about all the time is big ( Ken Hackemack ) , he was a 6-foot-10 defensive lineman , ” Hagan said .
“ That guy , he was getting a lot of hype going into that game and I remember coming out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a sign that said he beat up Hackemack in the third grade .
I remember that.
” CU and Hagan got the best of Hackemack and the Longhorns in a season-opening 27-6 win in Boulder .
Hagan , a sophomore , ran for 116 yards and a touchdown and completed 7-of-12 passes for 95 yards and a touchdowns .
Hagan and the Buffs knocked of Texas the next year , too , in Austin , 29-22 .
Although he was 2-0 against the Longhorns , Hagan has great respect for their program @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a challenge .
“ Texas always has athletes , stellar athletes and it ’ s going to be a game we ’ re going to have to step up and match their energy , ” he said .
“ We ’ re going to make sure they match ours .
Our guys are going to be ready to play and it ’ s going to be fun.
” Freshman running back Ashaad Clayton has opted out of the bowl game , but Hagan is still confident in the players CU will have against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Pac-12 offensive player of the year on Tuesday , leads the way .
Jaren Mangham , Joe Davis and Jayle Stacks will also be available .
“ It ’ s still dynamic , ” he said of the running back room .
“ We have four guys that I think that can do some really good things and I think we have four guys that are all in and they ’ re ready to contribute and help J-Bru along the way.
” Texas receiver Brennan Eagles announced Tuesday he will skip the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enter the NFL draft .
Eagles led the Longhorns in catches ( 28 ) and receiving yards ( 469 ) this season , with five touchdowns .
He was third on the team in receiving in 2019 .
… Texas has had several starters opt out of the Alamo Bowl , including left tackle Samuel Cosmi , defensive lineman Ta ’ Quon Graham , linebacker Joseph Ossai and safeties Caden Sterns and Chris Brown .

Through the first four games of the season, the Colorado football team put itself in position for a possible Pac-12 South title.
In the fifth game, on Dec. 12, the Buffaloes didn’t perform like usual in a 38-21 loss to Utah at Folsom Field, ending their winning streak and costing them a chance at winning the division.
After an unexpected bye last week, the Buffs (4-1) are still looking to make up for that loss. That will contribute to their motivation on Tuesday when they play No. 20 Texas (6-3) at the Valero Alamo Bowl in San Antonio (7 p.m., TV: ESPN).
“Just having that taste of a loss still in our mouths, not performing the way we really wanted to on the offensive line, that definitely add to our excitement to get back,” tackle William Sherman said. “We want to run the ball well again like we’ve been doing all year. So, there’s definitely some things we want to go out and prove in this game next Tuesday.”
Utah, which finished 3-2 on the season, may have been the best team CU has faced this season, and the Buffs lost star linebacker Nate Landman to a season-ending injury in the first half. The Buffs did play like they did the first four weeks, however.
“Disappointing performance,” head coach Karl Dorrell said last week. “We weren’t playing as well as we normally would have played for one reason or another.”
Turnovers, missed tackles and dropped passes all added up in the loss.
Facing a good Texas team provides the Buffs an opportunity to prove themselves again.
“We really wanted to showcase our talents and abilities versus Utah,” Sherman said. “Obviously, as we know, we weren’t able to do that. It didn’t end the way we wanted it to. So, this is another big opportunity for us to do that and really go show the country how special Colorado football is.”
Memory lane
Going up against Texas brings back memories for CU running backs coach Darian Hagan.
As an option quarterback for the Buffs in 1989 – he was named Big Eight offensive player of the year the season – Hagan had his breakout performance against the Longhorns.
“One of the things that I think about all the time is big (Ken Hackemack), he was a 6-foot-10 defensive lineman,” Hagan said. “That guy, he was getting a lot of hype going into that game and I remember coming out in warmups and one of our fans had a sign that said he beat up Hackemack in the third grade. I remember that.”
CU and Hagan got the best of Hackemack and the Longhorns in a season-opening 27-6 win in Boulder. Hagan, a sophomore, ran for 116 yards and a touchdown and completed 7-of-12 passes for 95 yards and a touchdowns.
Hagan and the Buffs knocked of Texas the next year, too, in Austin, 29-22. Although he was 2-0 against the Longhorns, Hagan has great respect for their program and knows the Alamo Bowl will be a challenge.
“Texas always has athletes, stellar athletes and it’s going to be a game we’re going to have to step up and match their energy,” he said. “We’re going to make sure they match ours. Our guys are going to be ready to play and it’s going to be fun.”
Running game
Freshman running back Ashaad Clayton has opted out of the bowl game, but Hagan is still confident in the players CU will have against Texas.
Starter Jarek Broussard, named the Pac-12 offensive player of the year on Tuesday, leads the way. Jaren Mangham, Joe Davis and Jayle Stacks will also be available.
“It’s still dynamic,” he said of the running back room. “We have four guys that I think that can do some really good things and I think we have four guys that are all in and they’re ready to contribute and help J-Bru along the way.”
Notable
Texas receiver Brennan Eagles announced Tuesday he will skip the Alamo Bowl and his senior year and enter the NFL draft. Eagles led the Longhorns in catches (28) and receiving yards (469) this season, with five touchdowns. He was third on the team in receiving in 2019. … Texas has had several starters opt out of the Alamo Bowl, including left tackle Samuel Cosmi, defensive lineman Ta’Quon Graham, linebacker Joseph Ossai and safeties Caden Sterns and Chris Brown.


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--Denver weather: Warm and sunny Christmas, but is there snow ahead?

There will be no white Christmas in Denver this year , but it will be warm and sunny through the holiday .
According to the National Weather Service in Boulder , Thursday ’ s high will be 50 degrees under sunny skies .
A south wind will shift to the northwest and become stronger — gusting to 15 mph — as the day moves along .
It will remain clear as the winds die down overnight , and the low will drop to 25 degrees for Christmas Eve .
It will get even warmer for Christmas on Friday with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day should be pristine with little wind and no precipitation expected .
It will remain clear into the evening when temperatures dip down to 27 degrees .
Saturday should be more of the same , with a lot of sun and temperatures in the high 50s .
Saturday night is the next chance for snow at 20 % late into the evening .
More snow could be on the way late Sunday into Monday .
The storms expected over the weekend will bring little accumulation to the city , though the mountains will @ @ @

There will be no white Christmas in Denver this year, but it will be warm and sunny through the holiday.
According to the National Weather Service in Boulder, Thursday’s high will be 50 degrees under sunny skies. A south wind will shift to the northwest and become stronger — gusting to 15 mph — as the day moves along. It will remain clear as the winds die down overnight, and the low will drop to 25 degrees for Christmas Eve.
It will get even warmer for Christmas on Friday with a high of 59 degrees. The clear day should be pristine with little wind and no precipitation expected. It will remain clear into the evening when temperatures dip down to 27 degrees.
Saturday should be more of the same, with a lot of sun and temperatures in the high 50s. Saturday night is the next chance for snow at 20% late into the evening. More snow could be on the way late Sunday into Monday. The storms expected over the weekend will bring little accumulation to the city, though the mountains will be impacted.


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--“We are struggling”: A bleak Christmas for America’s jobless

NEW YORK — Last Christmas , Shanita Matthews cooked up a feast for her family of three : Roast chicken , barbecue spareribs , spinach , macaroni and cheese .
This year ?
They ’ ll stick with tuna fish and crackers , among the few items she can afford at the supermarket .
“ We ’ re not really doing Christmas — I guess you can say it that way , ” said Matthews , who lives in in Suwanee , Georgia .
“ We are struggling .
We are tired , and all I have is my faith.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Matthews has been jobless since the viral pandemic ripped through the U.S. economy in March , triggering a devastating recession and widespread unemployment .
Now , many months later , they face a holiday season they hardly could have foreseen a year ago : Too little money to buy gifts , cook proper meals or pay all their bills .
Nearly 8 million people have sunk into poverty since June after having spent $ 1,200 checks that the government gave most Americans in the spring and a $ 600-a-week supplemental jobless benefit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Bruce Meyer at the University of Chicago and two other colleagues .
And finding a job is getting even harder : Hiring in November slowed for a fifth straight month , with U.S. employers adding the fewest jobs since April .
Some relief may — potentially — be on the way .
This week , Congress approved a $ 900 billion pandemic rescue package that includes a $ 300-a-week unemployment benefit , cash payments of up to $ 600 for most individuals and a renewal of extended jobless aid programs that are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , though , President Donald Trump injected doubts about that urgently needed federal aid by attacking the rescue package as inadequate and suggesting that he might not sign it into law .
Help , in the meantime , can ’ t come soon enough for Matthews .
With her bank balance now negative , she worries that her account could be closed if she doesn ’ t receive financial aid soon .
Matthews , 41 , has been struggling with her finances since she had to shut down her wedding business in March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need for the centerpieces and flower arrangements she made suddenly evaporated .
Matthews was denied unemployment aid by Georgia ’ s labor department .
She doesn ’ t understand why and is appealing the decision .
But the process is so slow that she ’ s waited months just to get a hearing .
Despite being a registered nurse , Matthews has been unable to land a job .
She can work only late hours because she often needs to help her 6-year-old daughter , who must do virtual learning at home when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Matthews ’ car was repossessed after she couldn ’ t keep up with payments .
Most of what her husband earns goes to a $ 1,600 mortgage on their home .
That leaves them with about $ 200 a month for groceries , utilities and a $ 50 internet bill — a necessity for her daughter ’ s schoolwork .
Matthews hopes that a relative can step in and buy a Christmas gift for her daughter .
“ We want to be able to have food , water , heat , ” she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that we care about.
” Charities say they have been overwhelmed with requests for help , a sign many are in deep financial distress .
The United Way expects the number of calls to the 211 hotline it funds to double from last year to 20 million calls , mostly from people needing help paying rent or electricity bills .
Feeding America says many of the people showing up at food banks are first timers .
Out of desperation , Sheyontay Molton turned to Twitter for help after a series of events left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for her four children .
Her children ’ s father lost his job this year .
Molton , who is 28 and lives in San Antonio , Texas , had to temporarily stop working as a delivery driver for DoorDash after falling debris from a truck severely damaged her car in October .
She used part of her rent money to repair it , leaving her behind on bills .
Having noticed on Twitter that social media influencers and celebrities were providing cash to some needy people , Molton created an account and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her $ 200 through an app — money that she plans to use for groceries .
Another couple on Twitter asked her to create an Amazon Wishlist and then bought her kids a doll , cars and other toys for Christmas .
Without the donations , Molton had planned to tell her young kids that Santa Claus couldn ’ t come because he was taking extra coronavirus precautions .
“ Silly , I know , ” she said , But “ it would have bought me more time.
” The struggles of low-income @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a weak holiday shopping season that will likely drag on the overall economy .
Retail sales fell 1.1 % in November , a month that is typically strong as gift-buying gets under way .
Some economists expect retail sales to decline again this month , particularly as governments impose more business restrictions and rising coronavirus cases keep consumers away from stores and restaurants .
A scaled-back holiday is what Summer Kluytman has been envisioning .
She had to tell her two teenage sons not to expect the kinds of Christmas gifts they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like the $ 400 Oculus virtual reality headset that was under the tree last year .
Having lost two art teaching jobs , Kluytman had to go on food stamps to help pay for groceries .
The salary of her husband , who works for a cable company , goes toward the rent for their home in St. Petersburg , Florida .
Kluytman is spending $ 100 on each son this Christmas for hoodies and other clothing , down from the $ 500 she spent on each last year .
She plans to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ll gather in the living room to catch a flick .
“ I think that they ’ re cool with us spending time together as opposed to a bunch of stuff under the tree , ” she said .
“ But it does break my heart a little bit .
”

NEW YORK — Last Christmas, Shanita Matthews cooked up a feast for her family of three: Roast chicken, barbecue spareribs, spinach, macaroni and cheese.
This year? They’ll stick with tuna fish and crackers, among the few items she can afford at the supermarket.
“We’re not really doing Christmas — I guess you can say it that way,” said Matthews, who lives in in Suwanee, Georgia. “We are struggling. We are tired, and all I have is my faith.”
Like nearly 10 million other Americans, Matthews has been jobless since the viral pandemic ripped through the U.S. economy in March, triggering a devastating recession and widespread unemployment. Now, many months later, they face a holiday season they hardly could have foreseen a year ago: Too little money to buy gifts, cook proper meals or pay all their bills.
Nearly 8 million people have sunk into poverty since June after having spent $1,200 checks that the government gave most Americans in the spring and a $600-a-week supplemental jobless benefit expired in July, according to research by Bruce Meyer at the University of Chicago and two other colleagues. And finding a job is getting even harder: Hiring in November slowed for a fifth straight month, with U.S. employers adding the fewest jobs since April.
Some relief may — potentially — be on the way. This week, Congress approved a $900 billion pandemic rescue package that includes a $300-a-week unemployment benefit, cash payments of up to $600 for most individuals and a renewal of extended jobless aid programs that are about to expire. On Tuesday night, though, President Donald Trump injected doubts about that urgently needed federal aid by attacking the rescue package as inadequate and suggesting that he might not sign it into law.
Help, in the meantime, can’t come soon enough for Matthews. With her bank balance now negative, she worries that her account could be closed if she doesn’t receive financial aid soon.
Matthews, 41, has been struggling with her finances since she had to shut down her wedding business in March, when ceremonies were canceled and any need for the centerpieces and flower arrangements she made suddenly evaporated. Matthews was denied unemployment aid by Georgia’s labor department. She doesn’t understand why and is appealing the decision. But the process is so slow that she’s waited months just to get a hearing.
Despite being a registered nurse, Matthews has been unable to land a job. She can work only late hours because she often needs to help her 6-year-old daughter, who must do virtual learning at home when virus cases spike at her school.
Matthews’ car was repossessed after she couldn’t keep up with payments. Most of what her husband earns goes to a $1,600 mortgage on their home. That leaves them with about $200 a month for groceries, utilities and a $50 internet bill — a necessity for her daughter’s schoolwork.
Matthews hopes that a relative can step in and buy a Christmas gift for her daughter.
“We want to be able to have food, water, heat,” she said. “Those are the things that we care about.”
Charities say they have been overwhelmed with requests for help, a sign many are in deep financial distress. The United Way expects the number of calls to the 211 hotline it funds to double from last year to 20 million calls, mostly from people needing help paying rent or electricity bills. Feeding America says many of the people showing up at food banks are first timers.
Out of desperation, Sheyontay Molton turned to Twitter for help after a series of events left her with no money to buy gifts for her four children.
Her children’s father lost his job this year. Molton, who is 28 and lives in San Antonio, Texas, had to temporarily stop working as a delivery driver for DoorDash after falling debris from a truck severely damaged her car in October. She used part of her rent money to repair it, leaving her behind on bills.
Having noticed on Twitter that social media influencers and celebrities were providing cash to some needy people, Molton created an account and tweeted about her situation. Someone sent her $200 through an app — money that she plans to use for groceries. Another couple on Twitter asked her to create an Amazon Wishlist and then bought her kids a doll, cars and other toys for Christmas.
Without the donations, Molton had planned to tell her young kids that Santa Claus couldn’t come because he was taking extra coronavirus precautions.
“Silly, I know,” she said, But “it would have bought me more time.”
The struggles of low-income workers and the unemployed are contributing to a weak holiday shopping season that will likely drag on the overall economy. Retail sales fell 1.1% in November, a month that is typically strong as gift-buying gets under way. Some economists expect retail sales to decline again this month, particularly as governments impose more business restrictions and rising coronavirus cases keep consumers away from stores and restaurants.
A scaled-back holiday is what Summer Kluytman has been envisioning. She had to tell her two teenage sons not to expect the kinds of Christmas gifts they’ve typical received in the past, like the $400 Oculus virtual reality headset that was under the tree last year.
Having lost two art teaching jobs, Kluytman had to go on food stamps to help pay for groceries. The salary of her husband, who works for a cable company, goes toward the rent for their home in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Kluytman is spending $100 on each son this Christmas for hoodies and other clothing, down from the $500 she spent on each last year. She plans to hold movie nights, where they’ll gather in the living room to catch a flick.
“I think that they’re cool with us spending time together as opposed to a bunch of stuff under the tree,” she said. “But it does break my heart a little bit.”


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--Christmas gifts may not arrive on time

Christmas gifts may not arrive on time

Christmas gifts may not arrive in time as U.S .
Postal Service offices struggle to keep up with delivery demands @ @ @ @ @ our busiest week , of our busiest month , of our busiest year ever , @ @ @ @ @ We are seeing so many packages.
” Millions of Americans turned to online shopping during @ @ @ @ @ and again for holiday shopping .

Christmas gifts may not arrive in time as U.S. Postal Service offices struggle to keep up with delivery demands.
James Boxrud, a USPS spokesperson based in Colorado, said they’re experiencing historical mail volume.
“This week is our busiest week, of our busiest month, of our busiest year ever,” Boxrud said. “We are seeing so many packages.”
Millions of Americans turned to online shopping during the pandemic for everyday necessities and again for holiday shopping.
Read more at thedenverchannel.com.


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--Colorado regulators give Xcel Energy green light to invest in electric transportation, but pump brak

Colorado regulators give Xcel Energy green light to invest in electric transportation, but pump brakes on vehicle rebate plan

Xcel Energy-Colorado got a green light Wednesday to charge ahead with its plan to invest in equipment and offer rebates to increase the use of electric vehicles .
The Colorado Public Utilities Commission voted to support Xcel Energy ’ s plan to spend $ 102 million over three years to build charging stations , incentivize homeowners to install charging equipment and provide support for converting school buses , government and business fleets to electric .
However , the three PUC members split on the utility ’ s proposal to offer rebates to people who buy electric vehicles .
Discussions between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ led to a proposal that would have added roughly $ 30 million to the utility ’ s plan by offering rebates to get more electric vehicles on the road .
Instead , two PUC members voted to limit the rebate program to $ 5 million for rebates for low-income car buyers .
The rebates would be offered on vehicles with suggested prices of $ 50,000 or less .
The PUC will issue a written decision later .
“ This is the dawn of a new era for clean , efficient transportation in Colorado @ @ @ @ @ @ @ director at the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project , said in an email .
“ There ’ s something for everyone to like in this decision .
It will save Coloradans millions of dollars .
At the same time , it will help clean up our air , protect our health , reduce climate change and greatly improve energy efficiency.
” Xcel Energy submitted its electric transportation plan after a 2019 law cleared the way for regulated utilities to invest in equipment and programs to boost the use of electric vehicles , one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
His administration ’ s target is to have nearly 1 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030 to help meet the state ’ s goals for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and improving air quality .
The 2019 law also allows Xcel Energy and other investor-owned utilities to recover the costs of building the charging stations and other expenditures from its customers .
The PUC voted to allow Xcel Energy to add a charge , or “ rider , ” to customers ’ monthly bills .
The average residential customer would pay 67 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is approved , Xcel Energy has said .
John Gavan split with the other two commissioners to vote against rebates .
“ I think this rebate is very , very bad public policy .
Essentially , we are asking ratepayers to help rich people to buy expensive cars , ” Gavan said .
“ It is absolutely the wrong time to even be contemplating this .
We ’ ve got a pandemic .
We ’ ve got a recession.
” Gavan suggested waiting until Xcel Energy submits its next proposal in three years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be lower .
He said he didn ’ t believe capping the price of cars eligible for the rebates would help in the current market .
The rebates apply to new and used cars .
The Colorado Office of Consumer Counsel opposed the rebate program .
But Cindy Schonhaut , the director , said her office doesn ’ t object to the limited program .
“ The commission had a tough job , sorting out all the different interests.
” PUC Chairman Jeffrey Ackermann acknowledged concerns about the potential impacts on Xcel Energy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who can ’ t afford electric vehicles helping pay for rebates .
He said the staff and others voiced objections to the proposed rebates , but offered little in the way of options to meet the state ’ s goals for addressing climate change and increasing the use of electric vehicles .

Xcel Energy-Colorado got a green light Wednesday to charge ahead with its plan to invest in equipment and offer rebates to increase the use of electric vehicles.
The Colorado Public Utilities Commission voted to support Xcel Energy’s plan to spend $102 million over three years to build charging stations, incentivize homeowners to install charging equipment and provide support for converting school buses, government and business fleets to electric.
However, the three PUC members split on the utility’s proposal to offer rebates for electric vehicles, with one commissioner saying customers shouldn’t have to help pay for electric vehicles that many of them can’t afford. The utility will recover the program’s costs through an extra charge on electric rates.
Discussions between Xcel Energy and the Colorado Energy Office led to a proposal that would have added roughly $30 million to the utility’s plan by offering rebates to get more electric vehicles on the road.
Instead, two PUC members voted to limit the rebate program to $5 million for rebates for low-income car buyers. The rebates would be offered on vehicles with suggested prices of $50,000 or less.
The PUC will issue a written decision later.
“This is the dawn of a new era for clean, efficient transportation in Colorado,” Travis Madsen, transportation program director at the Southwest Energy Efficiency Project, said in an email. “There’s something for everyone to like in this decision. It will save Coloradans millions of dollars. At the same time, it will help clean up our air, protect our health, reduce climate change and greatly improve energy efficiency.”
Xcel Energy submitted its electric transportation plan after a 2019 law cleared the way for regulated utilities to invest in equipment and programs to boost the use of electric vehicles, one of Gov. Jared Polis’ major goals. The goal is to have nearly 1 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030 to help meet the state’s targets for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and improving air quality.
The 2019 law also allows Xcel Energy and other investor-owned utilities to recover the costs of building the charging stations and other expenditures from its customers. The PUC voted to allow Xcel Energy to add a charge, or “rider,” to monthly bills.
The average residential customer would pay 55 cents more per month under the plan approved by the PUC, Xcel Energy said.
John Gavan split with the other two commissioners to vote against rebates.
“I think this rebate is very, very bad public policy. Essentially, we are asking ratepayers to help rich people to buy expensive cars,” Gavan said. “It is absolutely the wrong time to even be contemplating this. We’ve got a pandemic. We’ve got a recession.”
Gavan suggested waiting until Xcel Energy submits its next proposal in three years when prices for electric vehicles will likely be lower. He said he didn’t believe capping the price of cars eligible for the rebates would help in the current market.
The rebates apply to new and used cars. Rebates will also be offered to install charging equipment in homes. A portion of the utility’s budget will go to charging stations in multi-family residences and low-income communities.
The Colorado Office of Consumer Counsel opposed the vehicle rebate program. But Cindy Schonhaut, the director, said her office doesn’t object to the limited program. “The commission had a tough job, sorting out all the different interests.”
Xcel Energy spokeswoman Michelle Aguayo said the company is waiting to see the written decision, but is pleased with the PUC’s deliberations. She said the plan will help achieve Colorado’s objective on electric vehicles and help Xcel Energy meet its goals of cutting carbon emissions 80% by 2030 and supplying carbon-free electricity by 2050.
PUC Chairman Jeffrey Ackermann acknowledged concerns about the potential impacts on Xcel Energy customers and questions about the fairness of people who can’t afford electric vehicles helping pay for rebates. He said the staff and others voiced objections to the proposed rebates, but offered little in the way of options to meet the state’s goals for addressing climate change and increasing the use of electric vehicles.


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--Editorial: Good riddance Patrick Neville

Even in ordinary times , it would be considered reckless to post the home addresses of journalists on social media while criticizing their work .
But these are not normal times .
For four years , the leader of the free world has vilified the free press as the enemy of the American people .
President Donald Trump has accused journalists of lying and assigned ulterior motives to their work .
So when House Minority Leader Patrick Neville tweeted out photos of the voter registration information of two Denver Post reporters , it wasn ’ t just appalling it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half-hearted attempt to blackout the addresses in the photos after many expressed dismay .
“ The other reporter was also a Democrat .
They want us to be silent on this but I think people should know this information , ” Neville wrote .
Actually , it ’ s an easily accessible public record to determine a person ’ s voter registration , so we ’ re not so much concerned with the public knowing that both reporters have been registered as Democrat or unaffiliated in the past — everyone has a right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reporters .
But Neville didn ’ t just tweet out the information , he deliberately took a screenshot of their home addresses and sent it out to the world .
This was the act of a man who had no valid criticism to hang on a very unflattering story .
Denver Post reporters Conrad Swanson and Alex Burness wrote a story that highlighted several Colorado Republicans ’ answers to the question : “ What happened to the Colorado Republican Party ?
” Turns out many folks are concerned about how Neville handled money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Colorado .
Swanson and Burness used publicly available records to show how in three years under Neville ’ s leadership just under $ 1 million in funds from various campaign organizations under his control went to Rearden Strategic .
Rearden is a company owned by Neville ’ s brother .
Note that Neville didn ’ t allege the story was inaccurate .
He just alleged that the reporters were biased because they currently or formerly had been registered as Democrats .
If Neville wants to defend his reputation , he ’ d @ @ @ @ @ @ @ account for the money given to Rearden to help Republicans win office .
And if Neville doesn ’ t want other Republicans to accuse him of gross nepotism , then he shouldn ’ t hire his brother ’ s company for work many companies are eager to take on .
It ’ s certainly not the reporter ’ s fault that Neville made poor decisions with money donated by loyal Republicans hoping to help their party .
It pays to be in power when you can grant multiple hundred-thousand-dollar contracts to your family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efficiently or effectively Rearden used the money it was paid , but we know Republicans have not been doing well in competitive races with a few exceptions .
Neville has already been ousted from his leadership position .
Good riddance .
Perhaps new leadership will bring better results .
To send a letter to the editor about this article , submit online or check out our guidelines for how to submit by email or mail .

Even in ordinary times, it would be considered reckless to post the home addresses of journalists on social media while criticizing their work.
But these are not normal times. For four years, the leader of the free world has vilified the free press as the enemy of the American people. President Donald Trump has accused journalists of lying and assigned ulterior motives to their work.
So when House Minority Leader Patrick Neville tweeted out photos of the voter registration information of two Denver Post reporters, it wasn’t just appalling it was downright dangerous. Neville then made a half-hearted attempt to blackout the addresses in the photos after many expressed dismay.
“The other reporter was also a Democrat. They want us to be silent on this but I think people should know this information,” Neville wrote.
Actually, it’s an easily accessible public record to determine a person’s voter registration, so we’re not so much concerned with the public knowing that both reporters have been registered as Democrat or unaffiliated in the past — everyone has a right to participate in our Democracy, even reporters.
But Neville didn’t just tweet out the information, he deliberately took a screenshot of their home addresses and sent it out to the world.
This was the act of a man who had no valid criticism to hang on a very unflattering story.
Denver Post reporters Conrad Swanson and Alex Burness wrote a story that highlighted several Colorado Republicans’ answers to the question: “What happened to the Colorado Republican Party?”
Turns out many folks are concerned about how Neville handled money donated to help Republicans seeking legislative office in Colorado. Swanson and Burness used publicly available records to show how in three years under Neville’s leadership just under $1 million in funds from various campaign organizations under his control went to Rearden Strategic. Rearden is a company owned by Neville’s brother.
Note that Neville didn’t allege the story was inaccurate. He just alleged that the reporters were biased because they currently or formerly had been registered as Democrats. If Neville wants to defend his reputation, he’d be much better producing detailed receipts to account for the money given to Rearden to help Republicans win office. And if Neville doesn’t want other Republicans to accuse him of gross nepotism, then he shouldn’t hire his brother’s company for work many companies are eager to take on. It’s certainly not the reporter’s fault that Neville made poor decisions with money donated by loyal Republicans hoping to help their party.
It pays to be in power when you can grant multiple hundred-thousand-dollar contracts to your family members. It’s unclear how efficiently or effectively Rearden used the money it was paid, but we know Republicans have not been doing well in competitive races with a few exceptions.
Neville has already been ousted from his leadership position. Good riddance.
Perhaps new leadership will bring better results.
To send a letter to the editor about this article, submit online or check out our guidelines for how to submit by email or mail.


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--Madrid: Tear down “Columbus Park” and build up “La Raza” — the people’s park

It ’ s about time the cosmos lean in favor of “ La Raza.
” At least in this meaningful step in tearing the name Columbus Park down to reveal its true name , La Raza Park .
White letters spell “ Columbus Park ” on a green sign on the southwest side of the park .
The name never felt right for the space on 38th and Navajo .
Especially with the huge Mexica-inspired temple that sits in the middle of the block .
For the longest time , the sign has felt like a city-sanctioned middle finger .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ voted unanimously in favor of the change .
The new name is now an official thumbs up .
Veterans of the Chicano movement in Denver can finally rejoice .
For some like Arturo “ Bones ” Rodriguez , it ’ s taken five decades to see this issue resolved .
The real question is what took so long .
Institutional racism , bigotry , and lack of representation held this decision at a gridlock .
But the unwavering pressure from historians , educators , and activists has pushed this victory .
This change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and city leaders .
More conscious Indigenous , Chicanx , Latinx representatives sit on councils and hold leadership positions .
Their roots run deep in Denver and they aren ’ t afraid to shake systemic racism .
They are the descendants of social justice and business leaders .
Like councilwoman Amanda Sandoval who led the initiative .
Or state Rep. Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez , who offered her support .
For the Gonzales family , La Raza Park is more than a name or a recreational space , it ’ s a place of unity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rep. Gonzales-Gutierrez shared her grandfather Rodolfo “ Corky ” Gonzales ’ words .
He was a Chicano political organizer and leader of the Crusade for Justice in Denver .
“ Land is the base on which our cultural values are created .
That is what La Raza Park is to the Chicano , Latino and Northside community , ” Gonzales-Gutierrez read .
Denver director for Parks and Recreation , Happy Haynes shared how the process unfolded during the hearing .
She received 47 letters of support and 16 in opposition .
Richard SaBell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He was the only dissenter during the public hearing .
He also said he ’ s been a resident by the park for most of his life .
“ It ’ s intrinsically unfair to take from one community and give to another , ” SaBell said .
According to The DenverPost , Richard SaBell was the president of Sons of Italy in 2009 , and the president of the Columbus Day parade committee in 2011 .
“ This was not about the diminishment in any way of the Italian community , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ importance of the Latinx and Chicano community , ” Haynes said .
La Raza Park ’ s importance is vast .
It ’ s been a home base for Mexicano Chicano , Latino , Indigenous , and immigrant communities .
A metaphorical beacon lit at the top of a temple to call the people together for : vigils , solstice ceremonies , justice and peace rallies , family celebrations , car club meets , artists , danzantes , musicians , and talks from faith leaders , hood philosophers and even Nobel laureate Rigoberta @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
To find your people , share space , remember your roots , and help each other grow .
“ If nothing else , why not keep everything the way it is , ” SaBell said .
Maintaining the status quo means being complicit in historical violence .
Thankfully , this mentality is fading .
Our community chose to change and honor a history of resilience .
La Raza means the people .
Opponents have tried to tarnish “ la raza ” by defining it by its literal translation of ‘ the race @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a supremacist racial tone .
Emmanuel Martinez , a Denver Chicano muralist , shared that the original concept was inclusionary .
Jose Vasconcelos , a Mexican writer , coined the term in his essay “ La Raza Cosmica ” in 1925 .
It later became a rallying cry for farmworkers and activists .
If you accept “ We the people ” as a unifying constitutional assembly , you agree with La Raza .
This idea that La Raza leads to the total eradication of white history , culture , or people is paranoiac @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is justice .
The cultural cover-up that painted Columbus as an Italian hero has been exposed .
May this be an example that racist and violent figures are no longer tolerated .
They will no longer receive public veneration .
At least not without a fight .
Long live Chicano history , the crusade for justice , and the push toward unity .
Now come visit the people ’ s park .
Mimi Madrid is a Denver-raised writer who has worked in non-profits serving youth , LGBTQ , and Latinx communities .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about this article , submit online or check out our guidelines for how to submit by email or mail .

Long live the people’s park.
It’s about time the cosmos lean in favor of “La Raza.” At least in this meaningful step in tearing the name Columbus Park down to reveal its true name, La Raza Park.
White letters spell “Columbus Park” on a green sign on the southwest side of the park. The name never felt right for the space on 38th and Navajo. Especially with the huge Mexica-inspired temple that sits in the middle of the block.
For the longest time, the sign has felt like a city-sanctioned middle finger. Last week, City of Denver councilmembers voted unanimously in favor of the change. The new name is now an official thumbs up.
Veterans of the Chicano movement in Denver can finally rejoice. For some like Arturo “Bones” Rodriguez, it’s taken five decades to see this issue resolved. The real question is what took so long.
Institutional racism, bigotry, and lack of representation held this decision at a gridlock. But the unwavering pressure from historians, educators, and activists has pushed this victory.
This change also marks a new era of legislators and city leaders. More conscious Indigenous, Chicanx, Latinx representatives sit on councils and hold leadership positions. Their roots run deep in Denver and they aren’t afraid to shake systemic racism.
They are the descendants of social justice and business leaders. Like councilwoman Amanda Sandoval who led the initiative. Or state Rep. Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, who offered her support.
For the Gonzales family, La Raza Park is more than a name or a recreational space, it’s a place of unity and culture. At the hearing, Rep. Gonzales-Gutierrez shared her grandfather Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales’ words. He was a Chicano political organizer and leader of the Crusade for Justice in Denver.
“Land is the base on which our cultural values are created. That is what La Raza Park is to the Chicano, Latino and Northside community,” Gonzales-Gutierrez read.
Denver director for Parks and Recreation, Happy Haynes shared how the process unfolded during the hearing. She received 47 letters of support and 16 in opposition.
Richard SaBell shared he felt the change is unethical. He was the only dissenter during the public hearing. He also said he’s been a resident by the park for most of his life.
“It’s intrinsically unfair to take from one community and give to another,” SaBell said.
According to The DenverPost, Richard SaBell was the president of Sons of Italy in 2009, and the president of the Columbus Day parade committee in 2011.
“This was not about the diminishment in any way of the Italian community, but really a lifting of the special importance of the Latinx and Chicano community,” Haynes said.
La Raza Park’s importance is vast. It’s been a home base for Mexicano Chicano, Latino, Indigenous, and immigrant communities. A metaphorical beacon lit at the top of a temple to call the people together for: vigils, solstice ceremonies, justice and peace rallies, family celebrations, car club meets, artists, danzantes, musicians, and talks from faith leaders, hood philosophers and even Nobel laureate Rigoberta Menchu.
This is what Raza means. To find your people, share space, remember your roots, and help each other grow.
“If nothing else, why not keep everything the way it is,” SaBell said.
Maintaining the status quo means being complicit in historical violence. Thankfully, this mentality is fading. Our community chose to change and honor a history of resilience.
La Raza means the people. Opponents have tried to tarnish “la raza” by defining it by its literal translation of ‘the race’. Somehow implying the term claims a supremacist racial tone.
Emmanuel Martinez, a Denver Chicano muralist, shared that the original concept was inclusionary. Jose Vasconcelos, a Mexican writer, coined the term in his essay “La Raza Cosmica” in 1925. It later became a rallying cry for farmworkers and activists.
If you accept “We the people” as a unifying constitutional assembly, you agree with La Raza. This idea that La Raza leads to the total eradication of white history, culture, or people is paranoiac.
This isn’t erasure, this is justice. The cultural cover-up that painted Columbus as an Italian hero has been exposed.
May this be an example that racist and violent figures are no longer tolerated. They will no longer receive public veneration. At least not without a fight.
Long live Chicano history, the crusade for justice, and the push toward unity.
Now come visit the people’s park.
Mimi Madrid is a Denver-raised writer who has worked in non-profits serving youth, LGBTQ, and Latinx communities.
To send a letter to the editor about this article, submit online or check out our guidelines for how to submit by email or mail.


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--Top NBA players of 2020-21 season: Where national experts ranked the Nuggets

The Nuggets ’ 2020-21 campaign is underway and with it , hopes of bringing Denver its first NBA championship .
Fresh off of their first Western Conference Finals appearance in a decade , the Nuggets carry one of the league ’ s most-potent offenses , led by All-NBA center Nikola Jokic .
So how does Denver ’ s talent measure up against the rest of the league ’ s ?
Here ’ s a look at how national experts ranked the Nuggets ’ top players : Sports Illustrated ( No .
98 ) : “ One of the most impressive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Western Conference finals run was that they won two thrilling playoff series without Barton .
The 29-year-old small forward started 58 games for the Nuggets last season and was among the team ’ s most consistent contributors .
He averaged 15.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game , while shooting 37.5 % from three and playing a multitude of roles .
Simply put , he was Denver ’ s third-most-reliable player , ” Ben Pickman writes .
Sports Illustrated ( No .
77 ) : “ With the Nuggets ’ most potent lineups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Murray and Michael Porter together , Harris ’ s feel for complementing others , limiting mistakes and making plays in a pinch has never been more critical .
It ’ s one thing to find a player who ’ s willing to fit in , but another entirely when the crux of his game is so well suited for just that .
The thought he might become Denver ’ s third star has subsided , but if clean health and renewed confidence are in the cards , Harris ’ s shooting percentages ought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ requisite punch that would return him to form , ” Jeremy Woo writes .
Bleacher Report ( No .
7 ) : “ Little about Jokic is now misunderstood .
No other big man is remotely capable of running an offense in the same bent .
His vision is clairvoyant ; he doesn ’ t pass players open so much as sees into the future .
The nonchalance with which he finds cutters , launches outlets , throws one-handed dimes , keeps track of shooters , et al .
has to be emotionally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dan Favale writes .
CBS Sports ( No .
10 ) : “ Jokic went from an NBA nerd favorite to a bona fide superstar with his exposure in the Nuggets ’ run to the Western Conference finals .
He ’ s likely the best passing big man of all time , and one of the few NBA centers who can score consistently in the post , averaging 1.063 points per post possession ( 86th percentile ) , according to Synergy .
When you add in his ball-handling , rebounding and shooting ability @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who has proven that he can be the best player on a championship contender , ” Colin Ward-Henninger writes .
ESPN ( No .
10 ) : “ A sluggish start to the season was a distant memory when Jokic showed up trim for the seeding games and helped lead the Nuggets to their first conference finals since 2009 .
Along the way , Jokic showed how he helps his team in multiple ways .
Against the Utah Jazz , who wanted to make him a scorer , Jokic averaged 26.3 points .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ LA Clippers , but Jokic dominated the glass ( 13.4 rebounds ) and averaged 6.6 assists .
Though foul trouble limited Jokic against the eventual champion Lakers , he still made 58 % of his 2-point attempts in an efficient series.
” Sports Illustrated ( No .
8 ) : “ There ’ s a skittishness evident with defenses that play against Jokić .
Take a step toward the paint , and an open three will be generated .
Stay put on the perimeter , and Jokić is ready to punish a defender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t just unselfish .
He ’ s downright gleeful to feed his teammates .
It ’ s hard to imagine a better superstar alongside Jamal Murray in Denver , ” Michael Shapiro writes .
Sports Illustrated ( No .
87 ) : “ It ’ s undeniable that Millsap ’ s best NBA days are behind him , but the 35-year-old power forward still remains an important part of Denver ’ s roster heading into the 2020–21 NBA season .
When Millsap joined the Nuggets in 2017 on a three-year , $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a young franchise into the future , culminating , thus far , in Denver ’ s most recent Western Conference finals run .
Despite his scoring output dropping to its lowest mark since 2009–10 and his rebounding total dropping to its lowest mark since 2007–08 , Millsap remains a steady defender who is capable of playing a productive , limited role on a high-quality team , ” Ben Pickman writes .
Bleacher Report ( No .
27 ) : “ Consistency remains critical to Jamal Murray ’ s overarching value .
He spits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ megastar on any given night ; he just needs to have more of those nights — or at least embark on fewer disappearing acts , ” Dan Favale writes .
CBS Sports ( No .
22 ) : “ Did Murray make the proverbial ‘ leap ” in the bubble ?
I take issue with that word in this case because nothing Murray did in the playoffs surprised me .
His consistency is the question , but even that discussion is skewed because of the presence of Nikola Jokic , who controls so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pretty much every other point guard with Murray ’ s ability has complete control of his offense , so Murray ’ s scoring numbers are going to fluctuate more on nights when Jokic is in attack mode .
Bottom line : There are only a handful of guys in the league I would rather have on my team in a playoff series than Murray , who is , amazingly , still just 23 years old .
What a future the Nuggets have brewing , ” Brad Botkin writes .
ESPN ( No .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ watch for : We saw how lethal Murray can be during Denver ’ s playoff run , and I think he ’ ll take his game to even greater heights thanks to the addition of Facundo Campazzo .
The former Real Madrid floor general will allow Murray to focus more on scoring efficiently , as opposed to creating so much of the perimeter offense , which should lead to fewer tired-leg nights , ” Mike Schmitz writes .
Sports Illustrated ( No .
22 ) : “ When the 23-year-old Murray agreed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the summer of 2019 , some questioned Denver ’ s decision to anoint Murray as a franchise centerpiece despite his having never made an All-Star team .
Now , such doubts appear moot , as Murray enters the 2020-21 campaign poised to build on his stellar playoff run , ” Ben Pickman writes .
Bleacher Report ( No .
83 ) : “ Porter has the look and feel of a transcendent scorer .
He is super quick , can let ‘ er rip over the top of just about anyone and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Only five other players have averaged more than 20 points per 36 minutes on a true shooting percentage above 60 before their age-22 seasons : John Collins , Karl-Anthony Towns , Nikola Jokic , Kevin Durant and Shaquille O ’ Neal .
Porter played by far the lowest-volume role of the bunch , but this still attests to the upside on which Denver is counting.
” ESPN ( No .
51 ) : “ Porter is a springy 6-foot-10 shotmaker who cashed over 40 % of his triples , so why hasn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regular starter ?
The wiry forward needs to ramp up his defensive effort under coach Michael Malone .
He has good instincts for rebounds , but teams exposed Porter on the defensive end in the playoffs .
In order to take the next step , Porter can ’ t be a target for opposing offenses , ” Mike Schmitz writes .

The Nuggets’ 2020-21 campaign is underway and with it, hopes of bringing Denver its first NBA championship.
Fresh off of their first Western Conference Finals appearance in a decade, the Nuggets carry one of the league’s most-potent offenses, led by All-NBA center Nikola Jokic.
So how does Denver’s talent measure up against the rest of the league’s? Here’s a look at how national experts ranked the Nuggets’ top players:
Will Barton
Height: 6-foot-5 | Weight: 181 pounds | Age: 29
2019-20 regular season stat line: 15.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.5 blocks
Sports Illustrated (No. 98): “One of the most impressive parts of the Nuggets’ most recent Western Conference finals run was that they won two thrilling playoff series without Barton. The 29-year-old small forward started 58 games for the Nuggets last season and was among the team’s most consistent contributors. He averaged 15.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, while shooting 37.5% from three and playing a multitude of roles. Simply put, he was Denver’s third-most-reliable player,” Ben Pickman writes.
Gary Harris
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 210 pounds | Age: 26
2019-20 regular season stat line: 10.4 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 1.4 spg, 0.3 bpg
Sports Illustrated (No. 77): “With the Nuggets’ most potent lineups likely to include Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray and Michael Porter together, Harris’s feel for complementing others, limiting mistakes and making plays in a pinch has never been more critical. It’s one thing to find a player who’s willing to fit in, but another entirely when the crux of his game is so well suited for just that. The thought he might become Denver’s third star has subsided, but if clean health and renewed confidence are in the cards, Harris’s shooting percentages ought to trend back upward, adding the requisite punch that would return him to form,” Jeremy Woo writes.
Nikola Jokic
Height: 7-0 | Weight: 284 pounds | Age: 25
2019-20 regular season stat line: 19.9 ppg, 9.7 rpg, 7.0 apg, 1.2 spg, 0.6 bpg
Bleacher Report (No. 7): “Little about Jokic is now misunderstood. No other big man is remotely capable of running an offense in the same bent. His vision is clairvoyant; he doesn’t pass players open so much as sees into the future. The nonchalance with which he finds cutters, launches outlets, throws one-handed dimes, keeps track of shooters, et al. has to be emotionally and physically draining for defenses,” Dan Favale writes.
CBS Sports (No. 10): “Jokic went from an NBA nerd favorite to a bona fide superstar with his exposure in the Nuggets’ run to the Western Conference finals. He’s likely the best passing big man of all time, and one of the few NBA centers who can score consistently in the post, averaging 1.063 points per post possession (86th percentile), according to Synergy. When you add in his ball-handling, rebounding and shooting ability, Jokic is a truly unique talent who has proven that he can be the best player on a championship contender,” Colin Ward-Henninger writes.
ESPN (No. 10): “A sluggish start to the season was a distant memory when Jokic showed up trim for the seeding games and helped lead the Nuggets to their first conference finals since 2009. Along the way, Jokic showed how he helps his team in multiple ways. Against the Utah Jazz, who wanted to make him a scorer, Jokic averaged 26.3 points. That was down to 24.4 against the LA Clippers, but Jokic dominated the glass (13.4 rebounds) and averaged 6.6 assists. Though foul trouble limited Jokic against the eventual champion Lakers, he still made 58% of his 2-point attempts in an efficient series.”
Sports Illustrated (No. 8): “There’s a skittishness evident with defenses that play against Jokić. Take a step toward the paint, and an open three will be generated. Stay put on the perimeter, and Jokić is ready to punish a defender on the low block. Jokic isn’t just unselfish. He’s downright gleeful to feed his teammates. It’s hard to imagine a better superstar alongside Jamal Murray in Denver,” Michael Shapiro writes.
Paul Millsap
Height: 6-7 | Weight: 257 pounds | Age: 35
2019-20 regular season stat line: 11.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 1.6 apg, 0.9 spg, 0.6 bpg
Sports Illustrated (No. 87): “It’s undeniable that Millsap’s best NBA days are behind him, but the 35-year-old power forward still remains an important part of Denver’s roster heading into the 2020–21 NBA season. When Millsap joined the Nuggets in 2017 on a three-year, $90 million deal, he helped shepherd a young franchise into the future, culminating, thus far, in Denver’s most recent Western Conference finals run. Despite his scoring output dropping to its lowest mark since 2009–10 and his rebounding total dropping to its lowest mark since 2007–08, Millsap remains a steady defender who is capable of playing a productive, limited role on a high-quality team,” Ben Pickman writes.
Jamal Murray
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 215 pounds | Age: 23
2019-20 regular season stat line: 18.5 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 4.8 apg, 1.1 spg, 0.3 bpg
Bleacher Report (No. 27): “Consistency remains critical to Jamal Murray’s overarching value. He spits fire with the unrelenting ferocity of a megastar on any given night; he just needs to have more of those nights — or at least embark on fewer disappearing acts,” Dan Favale writes.
CBS Sports (No. 22): “Did Murray make the proverbial ‘leap” in the bubble? I take issue with that word in this case because nothing Murray did in the playoffs surprised me. His consistency is the question, but even that discussion is skewed because of the presence of Nikola Jokic, who controls so much of Denver’s offense. Pretty much every other point guard with Murray’s ability has complete control of his offense, so Murray’s scoring numbers are going to fluctuate more on nights when Jokic is in attack mode. Bottom line: There are only a handful of guys in the league I would rather have on my team in a playoff series than Murray, who is, amazingly, still just 23 years old. What a future the Nuggets have brewing,” Brad Botkin writes.
ESPN (No. 21): “One thing to watch for: We saw how lethal Murray can be during Denver’s playoff run, and I think he’ll take his game to even greater heights thanks to the addition of Facundo Campazzo. The former Real Madrid floor general will allow Murray to focus more on scoring efficiently, as opposed to creating so much of the perimeter offense, which should lead to fewer tired-leg nights,” Mike Schmitz writes.
Sports Illustrated (No. 22): “When the 23-year-old Murray agreed to a five-year, $170 million extension in the summer of 2019, some questioned Denver’s decision to anoint Murray as a franchise centerpiece despite his having never made an All-Star team. Now, such doubts appear moot, as Murray enters the 2020-21 campaign poised to build on his stellar playoff run,” Ben Pickman writes.
Michael Porter Jr.
Height: 6-10 | Weight: 218 pounds | Age: 22
2019-20 regular season stat line: 9.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 0.8 apg, 0.5 spg, 0.5 bpg
Bleacher Report (No. 83): “Porter has the look and feel of a transcendent scorer. He is super quick, can let ‘er rip over the top of just about anyone and has no bones about stroking spot-up jumpers. Only five other players have averaged more than 20 points per 36 minutes on a true shooting percentage above 60 before their age-22 seasons: John Collins, Karl-Anthony Towns, Nikola Jokic, Kevin Durant and Shaquille O’Neal. Porter played by far the lowest-volume role of the bunch, but this still attests to the upside on which Denver is counting.”
ESPN (No. 51): “Porter is a springy 6-foot-10 shotmaker who cashed over 40% of his triples, so why hasn’t he established himself as a regular starter? The wiry forward needs to ramp up his defensive effort under coach Michael Malone. He has good instincts for rebounds, but teams exposed Porter on the defensive end in the playoffs. In order to take the next step, Porter can’t be a target for opposing offenses,” Mike Schmitz writes.


thedenverpost--2020-12-24--Ask Amy: “Girlfriend” might angle for partner status

Dear Amy : I have been in a relationship for 13 years .
I am over 50 and I am really getting sick and tired of being disregarded when I am referred to as the “ girlfriend.
” I feel that being the girlfriend implies a temporary thing , and I feel other women disregard me when they hear the word “ girlfriend.
” I have never been so insecure in my life , but now I feel like I have to constantly worry about my future .
My boyfriend has me on his life insurance , but he has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think he understands the feeling of having to worry that if he passes on , I will have to leave our home , as I have no legal rights to fight for it .
Dear Lost : I understand your objection to the term “ girlfriend.
” And yet you referred to your sweetheart as your “ boyfriend.
” Does he mind this ?
Does he worry about how other men see him ?
I must admit to a 180 degree change in my own opinion of use of the word “ partner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I used to think that “ partner ” sounded like a descriptor better suited to a law firm than a love relationship .
Now , I think it sounds just right .
What are married couples , really , other than partners-in-life ?
You should do some research on laws in your state regarding “ common-law ” relationships and “ domestic partnerships.
” Some states seem to regard longtime cohabiting couples with some of the same legal rights as married couples , although , based on my own research , it is still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is one reason same-sex couples have fought so hard for it ) .
Mediation would help you and your guy to sort out some of these lingering issues and could help you and he to settle some important matters having to do with property , possessions , etc .
And yes , you should both have a will !
A will is especially important , for the reasons you cite .
I infer that you want to be married – for practical reasons , but also possibly for other reasons .
If he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will have a big decision to make , regarding whether you would rather be a girlfriend or an ex-girlfriend .
Dear Amy : I ’ m a gay man in my 60s , the middle son of three .
My older brother was also gay and died of AIDS in the early ’ 90s .
My mother died in 2016 , and I have a hard time when friends and relatives tell me what my mother did to help them and changed their lives for the better .
She was very outgoing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abusive and neglectful of all three sons in our youth and into adulthood .
No hugs , no , “ I love you ” until after my brother died and I was in my 40s .
My dilemma is what to say when people tell me what a wonderful , loving woman she was .
My brother and I have talked about how difficult it is to respond to people making such comments .
I usually just say some version of , “ Yes , she was a special person , ” but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I continue to live with .
Any suggestions on what to say when people go overboard with praise of her ?
I have had counseling , and I am doing well , but hearing such platitudes is a trigger for me to relive a painful past .
Dear Hurts : I think you would feel better if you allowed yourself to respond more authentically , while not denying others ’ impressions and experiences of your mother .
First off , I urge you to write down your experiences , not necessarily to share @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to clarify your own feelings .
This will help you to come to terms with your life , your relationship with your mother , and to see how you both changed over time .
One platitude I ’ ve expressed regarding my own challenging parent might work for you , too : Try : “ Well , people are complicated .
Things weren ’ t always easy at home , but I know she was a good friend.
” Dear Amy : I was truly shocked by the question from “ Worried Bro @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a larger gathering for a surprise birthday party .
Thank you for consistently advocating for safe and healthy behavior during the pandemic .
Dear Healthy : I think we each have the duty to protect ourselves , which , because of the way the COVID-19 virus spreads , also helps to protect others .

Dear Amy: I have been in a relationship for 13 years.
I am over 50 and I am really getting sick and tired of being disregarded when I am referred to as the “girlfriend.”
I feel that being the girlfriend implies a temporary thing, and I feel other women disregard me when they hear the word “girlfriend.”
I have never been so insecure in my life, but now I feel like I have to constantly worry about my future.
My boyfriend has me on his life insurance, but he has no will.
I don’t think he understands the feeling of having to worry that if he passes on, I will have to leave our home, as I have no legal rights to fight for it.
— Lost
Dear Lost: I understand your objection to the term “girlfriend.” And yet you referred to your sweetheart as your “boyfriend.” Does he mind this? Does he worry about how other men see him?
I must admit to a 180 degree change in my own opinion of use of the word “partner” to describe serious long-term relationships. I used to think that “partner” sounded like a descriptor better suited to a law firm than a love relationship. Now, I think it sounds just right. What are married couples, really, other than partners-in-life?
You should do some research on laws in your state regarding “common-law” relationships and “domestic partnerships.” Some states seem to regard longtime cohabiting couples with some of the same legal rights as married couples, although, based on my own research, it is still legally advantageous to be married (which is one reason same-sex couples have fought so hard for it).
Mediation would help you and your guy to sort out some of these lingering issues and could help you and he to settle some important matters having to do with property, possessions, etc. And yes, you should both have a will! A will is especially important, for the reasons you cite.
I infer that you want to be married – for practical reasons, but also possibly for other reasons. If he is resistant or refuses, then you will have a big decision to make, regarding whether you would rather be a girlfriend or an ex-girlfriend.
Dear Amy: I’m a gay man in my 60s, the middle son of three.
My older brother was also gay and died of AIDS in the early ’90s.
My mother died in 2016, and I have a hard time when friends and relatives tell me what my mother did to help them and changed their lives for the better.
She was very outgoing and fun in public, but she was abusive and neglectful of all three sons in our youth and into adulthood. No hugs, no, “I love you” until after my brother died and I was in my 40s.
My dilemma is what to say when people tell me what a wonderful, loving woman she was.
My brother and I have talked about how difficult it is to respond to people making such comments.
I usually just say some version of, “Yes, she was a special person,” but it denies the pain and suffering that I continue to live with.
Any suggestions on what to say when people go overboard with praise of her?
I have had counseling, and I am doing well, but hearing such platitudes is a trigger for me to relive a painful past.
— The Truth Hurts
Dear Hurts: I think you would feel better if you allowed yourself to respond more authentically, while not denying others’ impressions and experiences of your mother.
First off, I urge you to write down your experiences, not necessarily to share them with others, but for you to clarify your own feelings. This will help you to come to terms with your life, your relationship with your mother, and to see how you both changed over time.
One platitude I’ve expressed regarding my own challenging parent might work for you, too: Try: “Well, people are complicated. Things weren’t always easy at home, but I know she was a good friend.”
Dear Amy: I was truly shocked by the question from “Worried Bro,” whose family members were participating in a larger gathering for a surprise birthday party.
Thank you for consistently advocating for safe and healthy behavior during the pandemic.
— Staying Healthy
Dear Healthy: I think we each have the duty to protect ourselves, which, because of the way the COVID-19 virus spreads, also helps to protect others.
(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)