thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Denver’s best brunch spots, from bagel delis to dim sum palaces

Only one meal can create so much controversy , anxiety and elation all at once : the weekend brunch .
Just witness any combination of brunchers attempting to come to consensus for a mid-morning meal .
The discussion inevitably begins with a question : Why not breakfast ?
Because , at brunch , we have permission to sit and linger .
But along with so much leisure comes parking , reservations , wait times and headaches from last evening ’ s festivities to consider .
And all of this just a few hours into the day , likely before any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oh , the trending torture !
For the next time you and yours are considering a good brunching , we offer this savior : 18 tried and true restaurants , some newer , some 40 years in and still flippin ’ .
Know of another glorious brunch destination ?
Go ahead and sing its praises in the comments .
Expect a line on the weekends for Denver ’ s best bagels — they ’ re “ good enough for your bubbe ” — topped with lox , eggs , Taylor ham , whitefish @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cream cheese .
725 E. 26th Ave. and two more locations , 720-440-9880 , rosenbergsbagels.com Come for the complimentary valet parking , stay for the see-and-be-seen dining room .
This place is eternally busy and surprisingly dark inside for a mid-morning , but it ’ s been churning out omelettes and skillets this way since the early ’ 80s .
650 Sherman St. , 303-595-0418 racinesrestaurant.com Denver ’ s favorite hipster breakfast burrito owes its cult following in part to some duck fat-fried potatoes .
Breakfast fried rice and congee porridge are other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get there before 9 a.m. weekdays , you can snag a slightly smaller burrito — normally $ 12 — for $ 5 .
1420 E. 18th Ave. , 303-954-0877 , onefolddenver.com Here ’ s one of our favorite combinations at this sweet daytime spot on Walnut Street : Daily baked goods , a seasonal , mouthwatering French toast ( currently cardamom , plum and ricotta ) and a Japanese-style asa-gohan ( translation : breakfast ) with grilled salmon , avocado , sticky rice , eggs , slaw and seaweed .
2528 Walnut St. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diner feel , this Berkeley cafe is just right .
Order the buttermilk pancakes with a choice of three toppings : maple syrup and butter ; berries and clotted cream ; or pecans and lemon zest .
3838 Tennyson St. , 720-485-3901 , wendellsbreakfast.com A 40-year-old tradition , but still with only a handful of locations around Colorado , this Creole cafe is always charming .
Highlights include chicory coffee , beignets , eggs sardou and buttermilk biscuits and gravy .
275 S. Logan St. and five more locations , 303-282-6258 , luciles.com @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during weekend brunch , with dim sum carts rolling out small plates of traditional Chinese cakes , buns , dumplings and noodles .
It ’ s best experienced with a group for optimal tasting and sharing .
2917 W. Mississippi Ave. , 303-936-0089 , starkitchenseafooddimsum.com Out of all the greasy spoons in Denver , this 24-hour diner is your must-try in the morning .
Order from a full array of Tex-Mex and American staples and enjoy them in a room marked by orange vinyl and wood panels .
1100 S. Santa Fe Dr. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , breakfast or otherwise , there ’ s Julep .
Pair it with butter pecan bread or shrimp and Anson Mills grits .
And don ’ t skip out on Pimm ’ s cups or Hellfire bloody Marys .
3258 Larimer St. , 303-295-8977 , juleprino.com A bright cafe that sells both matzo ball soup and masterpiece burritos is our kind of breakfast spot .
At this South Pearl Street newcomer , Mexican and Jewish flavors combine on a menu that ’ s chock-full of fresh ingredients .
The iced cafe de olla @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pearl St. , 303-777-5919 , hojadenver.com Chef Linda Hampsten Fox ’ s modern cafeteria really shines during brunch with its wholesome maple yogurt , cast-iron Dutch baby and Italian-inspired uova alla cacciatore .
Order a bottle of Lambrusco and sit for a while .
1817 Central St. , 303-993-2364 , thebinderydenver.com An ultimate Denver experience , this all-you-can-eat jazz brunch on Sundays is well worth its $ 31 price tag .
Omelettes , crepes , brisket , a dessert bar and more pair well with live music and any regular outing or celebration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dazzledenver.com Choose from the bottomless bellini cart ’ s seasonal mixers , like grapefruit and pomegranate , alongside corn gnudi , polenta pancakes and a mortadella breakfast risotto .
Even the setting inside the Halcyon hotel is pure , decadent Italian .
241 Columbine St. , 303-532-8888 , qualityitalian.com Another must-try in Denver is this most-over-the-top Sunday brunch at The Brown Palace .
Sushi , bananas foster and four tiers of Champagne elevate an otherwise traditional brunch buffet .
The setting in a gilded 128-year-old hotel adds to the experience .
321 17th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chef ” contestant Carrie Baird features her now-famous “ fancy toasts ” in five varieties during brunch service , plus breakfast pizza , breakfast spritz cocktails , even breakfast cacio e pepe .
Warning : The bottomless spritzes ( $ 25 ) will catch up to you .
2227 W. 32nd Ave. , 720-668-8506 , bardoughdenver.com • A new generation of Denver bars is targeting a different crowd : People who don ’ t drink • In-N-Out wants to open a drive-thru in Lakewood • The most-anticipated restaurants coming to Denver in 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ entirely to Casa Bonita The newest Israeli brunch in town serves up all our favorite dips — hummus , babaganoush , labneh , tabouleh — plus everything-spice pita , shakshuka and more Middle Eastern favorites .
And it ’ s still a hidden gem ( for now ) , so there might not even be a wait when you get there .
2005 W. 33rd Ave. , 303-537-4407 , ashkaradenver.com A family-run classic with three Denver-area locations , go here for the cinnamon rolls , first and foremost .
But also pull up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country gravy-smothered breakfast plates .
And never say no to more butter on top .
1701 38th St. and two more locations , 303-295-2915 , butcherblockcafe.com Dinners at this destination spot are a special treat , but here ’ s the secret : brunch can be for any old weekend morning .
The kolaches with seasonal fruit fillings sell quickly , the breakfast sandwiches are a constant and the jam and butter biscuits should always start the process .
2501 Dallas St. ( at Stanley Marketplace ) , 720-710-9975 , annettescratchtotable.com Subscribe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get Denver food and drink news sent straight to your inbox .

Only one meal can create so much controversy, anxiety and elation all at once: the weekend brunch.
Just witness any combination of brunchers attempting to come to consensus for a mid-morning meal. The discussion inevitably begins with a question: Why not breakfast?
Because, at brunch, we have permission to sit and linger. But along with so much leisure comes parking, reservations, wait times and headaches from last evening’s festivities to consider. And all of this just a few hours into the day, likely before any food at all has been eaten. Oh, the trending torture!
For the next time you and yours are considering a good brunching, we offer this savior: 18 tried and true restaurants, some newer, some 40 years in and still flippin’. Know of another glorious brunch destination? Go ahead and sing its praises in the comments.
Rosenberg’s Bagels
Expect a line on the weekends for Denver’s best bagels — they’re “good enough for your bubbe” — topped with lox, eggs, Taylor ham, whitefish salad or just a healthy schmear of cream cheese. 725 E. 26th Ave. and two more locations, 720-440-9880, rosenbergsbagels.com
Racine’s
Come for the complimentary valet parking, stay for the see-and-be-seen dining room. This place is eternally busy and surprisingly dark inside for a mid-morning, but it’s been churning out omelettes and skillets this way since the early ’80s. 650 Sherman St., 303-595-0418 racinesrestaurant.com
Onefold
Denver’s favorite hipster breakfast burrito owes its cult following in part to some duck fat-fried potatoes. Breakfast fried rice and congee porridge are other addictive morning options. And if you get there before 9 a.m. weekdays, you can snag a slightly smaller burrito — normally $12 — for $5. 1420 E. 18th Ave., 303-954-0877, onefolddenver.com
Stowaway Kitchen
Here’s one of our favorite combinations at this sweet daytime spot on Walnut Street: Daily baked goods, a seasonal, mouthwatering French toast (currently cardamom, plum and ricotta) and a Japanese-style asa-gohan (translation: breakfast) with grilled salmon, avocado, sticky rice, eggs, slaw and seaweed. 2528 Walnut St., 720-583-5481, stowawaydenver.com
Wendell’s
For the new-school diner feel, this Berkeley cafe is just right. Order the buttermilk pancakes with a choice of three toppings: maple syrup and butter; berries and clotted cream; or pecans and lemon zest. 3838 Tennyson St., 720-485-3901, wendellsbreakfast.com
Lucile’s Creole Cafe
A 40-year-old tradition, but still with only a handful of locations around Colorado, this Creole cafe is always charming. Highlights include chicory coffee, beignets, eggs sardou and buttermilk biscuits and gravy. 275 S. Logan St. and five more locations, 303-282-6258, luciles.com
Star Kitchen
This sprawling dining room is a party during weekend brunch, with dim sum carts rolling out small plates of traditional Chinese cakes, buns, dumplings and noodles. It’s best experienced with a group for optimal tasting and sharing. 2917 W. Mississippi Ave., 303-936-0089, starkitchenseafooddimsum.com
Breakfast King
Out of all the greasy spoons in Denver, this 24-hour diner is your must-try in the morning. Order from a full array of Tex-Mex and American staples and enjoy them in a room marked by orange vinyl and wood panels. 1100 S. Santa Fe Dr., 303-733-0795
Julep
For fried chicken in Denver, breakfast or otherwise, there’s Julep. Pair it with butter pecan bread or shrimp and Anson Mills grits. And don’t skip out on Pimm’s cups or Hellfire bloody Marys. 3258 Larimer St., 303-295-8977, juleprino.com
Hoja
A bright cafe that sells both matzo ball soup and masterpiece burritos is our kind of breakfast spot. At this South Pearl Street newcomer, Mexican and Jewish flavors combine on a menu that’s chock-full of fresh ingredients. The iced cafe de olla will jumpstart your weekend. 1284 S. Pearl St., 303-777-5919, hojadenver.com
The Bindery
Chef Linda Hampsten Fox’s modern cafeteria really shines during brunch with its wholesome maple yogurt, cast-iron Dutch baby and Italian-inspired uova alla cacciatore. Order a bottle of Lambrusco and sit for a while. 1817 Central St., 303-993-2364, thebinderydenver.com
Dazzle
An ultimate Denver experience, this all-you-can-eat jazz brunch on Sundays is well worth its $31 price tag. Omelettes, crepes, brisket, a dessert bar and more pair well with live music and any regular outing or celebration. 1512 Curtis St., 303-839-5100, dazzledenver.com
Quality Italian
Choose from the bottomless bellini cart’s seasonal mixers, like grapefruit and pomegranate, alongside corn gnudi, polenta pancakes and a mortadella breakfast risotto. Even the setting inside the Halcyon hotel is pure, decadent Italian. 241 Columbine St., 303-532-8888, qualityitalian.com
Ellyngton’s
Another must-try in Denver is this most-over-the-top Sunday brunch at The Brown Palace. Sushi, bananas foster and four tiers of Champagne elevate an otherwise traditional brunch buffet. The setting in a gilded 128-year-old hotel adds to the experience. 321 17th St., 303-297-3111, brownpalace.com
Bar Dough
“Top Chef” contestant Carrie Baird features her now-famous “fancy toasts” in five varieties during brunch service, plus breakfast pizza, breakfast spritz cocktails, even breakfast cacio e pepe. Warning: The bottomless spritzes ($25) will catch up to you. 2227 W. 32nd Ave., 720-668-8506, bardoughdenver.com
Ash’Kara
HAVE A STORY IDEA? The idea for this story came via a subscriber to our food newsletter, Stuffed. Have an idea for a dining story you think we should cover? Let us know!
The newest Israeli brunch in town serves up all our favorite dips — hummus, babaganoush, labneh, tabouleh — plus everything-spice pita, shakshuka and more Middle Eastern favorites. And it’s still a hidden gem (for now), so there might not even be a wait when you get there. 2005 W. 33rd Ave., 303-537-4407, ashkaradenver.com
Butcher Block Cafe
A family-run classic with three Denver-area locations, go here for the cinnamon rolls, first and foremost. But also pull up to the counter for green chili or country gravy-smothered breakfast plates. And never say no to more butter on top. 1701 38th St. and two more locations, 303-295-2915, butcherblockcafe.com
Annette
Dinners at this destination spot are a special treat, but here’s the secret: brunch can be for any old weekend morning. The kolaches with seasonal fruit fillings sell quickly, the breakfast sandwiches are a constant and the jam and butter biscuits should always start the process. 2501 Dallas St. (at Stanley Marketplace), 720-710-9975, annettescratchtotable.com
Subscribe to our new food newsletter, Stuffed, to get Denver food and drink news sent straight to your inbox.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Trevor vs. Justin; Bama vs. LSU and other top college football stories in 2020

Six story lines that will define 2020 : The first meeting between Georgia natives Trevor Lawrence of Clemson and Justin Fields of Ohio State produced a classic College Football Playoff semifinal .
Both are entering their junior years , which most likely will be their final college seasons .
If they play again it will have to be in the playoff .
But make no mistake they will be competing .
Fields and Lawrence will enter next season as the preseason favorites to win the Heisman Trophy .
And if there is anybody who might be able to challenge Lawrence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 2021 NFL draft it is Fields , who grew up 20 miles away from Lawrence outside Atlanta and uses the same personal quarterback coach .
The Tigers snapped an eight-game losing streak to the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa , vanquishing their nemesis en route to a national championship .
There is no reason to believe Alabama is in decline .
Now fans will be watching to see if the Tigers ’ perfect season was a one-off for LSU with a generational quarterback in Joe Burrow or is this the beginning of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rivals .
This season the transfer quarterback trend reached a new peak ; three of the four playoff teams started QBs who began their careers elsewhere .
Which quarterbacks will be passing through the portal this offseason and playing prominent roles in 2020 .
Jamie Newman from Wake Forest has said he is heading to Georgia .
Former South Carolina starter Jake Bentley has already landed at Utah , and Kentucky has signed former Auburn quarterback Joey Gatewood .
Still on the market are K.J .
Costello from Stanford and Anthony Brown from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experience .
Phil Jurkovec from Notre Dame and Justin Rogers from TCU are intriguing former four-star prospects .
Jurkovec appears on the way to BC .
Expect a few more to come available after spring practice competitions play out — the way Burrow did in 2018 after losing out on the starting job at Ohio State .
Several coaches have various levels of something to prove in 2020 .
Clay Helton , USC — His last last chance .
And the season starts against Alabama .
Manny Diaz , Miami — Diaz quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fans , and firing a coach after two seasons is no longer a rarity .
Scott Frost , Nebraska — Progress has been measured so far in baby steps .
It ’ s time for a breakout .
Tom Herman , Texas — The Year 2 turnaround turned out to be more of a mirage than a new normal .
By Year 4 , it best be real .
Jimbo Fisher , Texas A & M — It is time for the Aggies to at least contend in the SEC West .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Pac-12 officials got the championship game right • LSU wins its fourth national championship with 42-25 victory over Clemson • Clemson vs. LSU live blog : Real-time updates from the College Football Playoff National Championship • Justin Jackson ready to write next chapter with CU Buffs Kirby Smart , Georgia — UGA fans believe Smart is building Alabama East .
Since being on the verge of winning a national title in 2017 , Georgia has gotten any closer to reaching that goal .
The Bulldogs play the Crimson Tide in Week 3 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the toughest things in college football , especially for those programs that hit heights they rarely reach .
Many wonder what encores No .
10 Minnesota ( 11-2 ) and No .
13 Baylor ( 11-3 ) will have in 2020 .
The Gophers have a talented core of players returning , such as receiver Rashod Bateman , and a hot coach in P.J .
Fleck .
Baylor will try to sustain its Big 12 contender status without coach Matt Rhule .
The Bears should bring back a loaded offense with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defense .
The College Football Playoff enters the back six of its 12-year deal with ESPN .
While there does not appear to be much momentum for expanding the system past four teams before the contract ends , it ’ s apparent expansion is likely .
Expansion talk among the college football leaders who most matter has become common and transparent .
Serious work on redoing the format will probably take a couple of years .
Be on the look out for more chatter coming from college football ’ s hierarchy .
Eventually @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grand proclamation as much as series of incremental public acknowledgements .

Six story lines that will define 2020:
TREVOR VS. JUSTIN
The first meeting between Georgia natives Trevor Lawrence of Clemson and Justin Fields of Ohio State produced a classic College Football Playoff semifinal. Both are entering their junior years, which most likely will be their final college seasons. If they play again it will have to be in the playoff.
But make no mistake they will be competing. Fields and Lawrence will enter next season as the preseason favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. And if there is anybody who might be able to challenge Lawrence to be the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft it is Fields, who grew up 20 miles away from Lawrence outside Atlanta and uses the same personal quarterback coach.
ALABAMA VS LSU
The Tigers snapped an eight-game losing streak to the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa, vanquishing their nemesis en route to a national championship.
There is no reason to believe Alabama is in decline. Now fans will be watching to see if the Tigers’ perfect season was a one-off for LSU with a generational quarterback in Joe Burrow or is this the beginning of a new dynamic where the rivals are really rivals.
TRANSFER QBs
This season the transfer quarterback trend reached a new peak; three of the four playoff teams started QBs who began their careers elsewhere.
Which quarterbacks will be passing through the portal this offseason and playing prominent roles in 2020. Jamie Newman from Wake Forest has said he is heading to Georgia. Former South Carolina starter Jake Bentley has already landed at Utah, and Kentucky has signed former Auburn quarterback Joey Gatewood.
Still on the market are K.J. Costello from Stanford and Anthony Brown from Boston College, both with extensive starting experience. Phil Jurkovec from Notre Dame and Justin Rogers from TCU are intriguing former four-star prospects. Jurkovec appears on the way to BC.
Expect a few more to come available after spring practice competitions play out — the way Burrow did in 2018 after losing out on the starting job at Ohio State.
SIX DEGREES OF HOT SEAT
Several coaches have various levels of something to prove in 2020.
Clay Helton, USC — His last last chance. And the season starts against Alabama.
Manny Diaz, Miami — Diaz quickly burned through his hometown cred with Hurricanes fans, and firing a coach after two seasons is no longer a rarity.
Scott Frost, Nebraska — Progress has been measured so far in baby steps. It’s time for a breakout.
Tom Herman, Texas — The Year 2 turnaround turned out to be more of a mirage than a new normal. By Year 4, it best be real.
Jimbo Fisher, Texas A&M — It is time for the Aggies to at least contend in the SEC West.
Kirby Smart, Georgia — UGA fans believe Smart is building Alabama East. Since being on the verge of winning a national title in 2017, Georgia has gotten any closer to reaching that goal. The Bulldogs play the Crimson Tide in Week 3.
SUSTAINABILITY
Following up a breakout season is one of the toughest things in college football, especially for those programs that hit heights they rarely reach.
Many wonder what encores No. 10 Minnesota (11-2) and No. 13 Baylor (11-3) will have in 2020. The Gophers have a talented core of players returning, such as receiver Rashod Bateman, and a hot coach in P.J. Fleck.
Baylor will try to sustain its Big 12 contender status without coach Matt Rhule. The Bears should bring back a loaded offense with quarterback Charlie Brewer, but a retooled defense.
PLAYOFF EXPANSION TALK
The College Football Playoff enters the back six of its 12-year deal with ESPN. While there does not appear to be much momentum for expanding the system past four teams before the contract ends, it’s apparent expansion is likely. Expansion talk among the college football leaders who most matter has become common and transparent.
Serious work on redoing the format will probably take a couple of years. Be on the look out for more chatter coming from college football’s hierarchy. Eventually, expansion might not come with a grand proclamation as much as series of incremental public acknowledgements.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Give credit where it’s due: Pac-12 officials got the championship game right

It was easy to envision a dumpster fire of an evening for the Pac-12 whereby its officials , in charge of the championship game , produced an outcome-altering gaffe that lowered the conference ’ s already low reputation .
Instead , we got the opposite : We got a well-called game with only one instance of true controversy .
Credit referee Chris Coyte , his crew ( below ) and vice president of officiating David Coleman , who made the specific assignments .
They did well — much better , for sure , than the SEC officials in the Clemson-Ohio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the crew a B+ while acknowledging that when it comes to a officiating , an A is unrealistic .
But the Hotline wanted a second opinion , so we reached out to the folks who run footballzebras , a respected website devoted to NCAA and NFL officiating .
“ The Pac-12 needed the officials to call a good game tonight and the officials called a great game .
Aside from the usual handful of controversies , Coyte ’ s crew called an outstanding game .
Gold stars for all !
” A few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : 1 .
It won ’ t be perfect .
Never is , never will be .
The key is to avoid the egregious calls … the calls that require a pool reporter be sent to the officials ’ lockerroom for an on-the-record explanation … the calls that generate headlines … the calls that become part of our memory of the game .
There were none of those Monday night .
Nor were there any instances of miscommunications or procedural errors or interminable replay delays .
Operationally , it was very smooth .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the calculation , everything that remains is part of the standard package of no-calls and close calls and missed calls that we see every game , every week .
There were a handful of those Monday , and the Pac-12 crew missed two .
— The lesser of the two misses involved the replay booth not catching an out-of-bounds on LSU that would have negated a long gain on what became a touchdown drive .
— The greater of the two misses was an offensive pass interference penalty on Clemson receiver Tee Higgins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 17 in the fourth quarter .
ESPN rules expert Bill LeMonnier thought the PI should have been on Vincent — and thus a touchdown for Clemson that would have positioned the Tigers for a potential rally .
Dabo Swinney really didn ’ t like the call .
It was controversial , and it was significant .
But it didn ’ t clear the threshold for egregious ; it wasn ’ t a call that we ’ ll be talking about for days and weeks , that will get tossed in the Pac-12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crew absolutely got three key calls correct : * The targeting/ejection of Clemson linebacker James Skalski , who clearly used his helmet as a weapon * The defensive pass interference on LSU that negated an interception .
All three were spot on .
The Pac-12 crew was fortunate in that there were no ultra-close , change-of-possession instances in which the call on the field is wrong but inconclusive replay angles prevent a booth overturn .
But while lucky , the crew was also good .
It was good by the Pac-12 ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any standards .
Support the Hotline : Several Hotline articles will remain free each month ( as will the newsletter ) , but for access to all content , you ’ ll need to subscribe .
I ’ ve secured a rate of $ 1 per week for a full year or — introductory offer alert !
— just 99 cents for the first month , with the option to cancel anytime .
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*** Send suggestions , comments and tips ( confidentiality guaranteed ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ *** Pac-12 Hotline is not endorsed or sponsored by the Pac-12 Conference , and the views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the Conference .

It was easy to envision a dumpster fire of an evening for the Pac-12 whereby its officials, in charge of the championship game, produced an outcome-altering gaffe that lowered the conference’s already low reputation.
Instead, we got the opposite:
We got a well-called game with only one instance of true controversy.
Credit referee Chris Coyte, his crew (below) and vice president of officiating David Coleman, who made the specific assignments.
Referee: Chris Coyte
Umpire: V. Francisco
Linesman: Darryl Johnson
Line judge: Dale Keller
Back judge: Joe Johnston
Field judge: Kevin Kieser
Side judge: Clay Reynard
Center judge: Jim Wharrie
They did well — much better, for sure, than the SEC officials in the Clemson-Ohio State semifinal.
We’ll give the crew a B+ while acknowledging that when it comes to a officiating, an A is unrealistic.
(So our B+ is really more like an A-.)
But the Hotline wanted a second opinion, so we reached out to the folks who run footballzebras, a respected website devoted to NCAA and NFL officiating.
Mark Schultz, an assistant editor, offered this commentary:
“The Pac-12 needed the officials to call a good game tonight and the officials called a great game. Aside from the usual handful of controversies, Coyte’s crew called an outstanding game. Gold stars for all!”
A few specifics, from our point of view:
1. It won’t be perfect. Never is, never will be.
The key is to avoid the egregious calls … the calls that require a pool reporter be sent to the officials’ lockerroom for an on-the-record explanation … the calls that generate headlines … the calls that become part of our memory of the game.
There were none of those Monday night.
Nor were there any instances of miscommunications or procedural errors or interminable replay delays.
Operationally, it was very smooth.
2. With egregious calls removed from the calculation, everything that remains is part of the standard package of no-calls and close calls and missed calls that we see every game, every week.
There were a handful of those Monday, and the Pac-12 crew missed two.
— The lesser of the two misses involved the replay booth not catching an out-of-bounds on LSU that would have negated a long gain on what became a touchdown drive.
— The greater of the two misses was an offensive pass interference penalty on Clemson receiver Tee Higgins that negated a touchdown when Clemson trailed by 17 in the fourth quarter.
Higgins pushed LSU cornerback Kary Vincent, but Vincent pushed Higgins.
ESPN rules expert Bill LeMonnier thought the PI should have been on Vincent — and thus a touchdown for Clemson that would have positioned the Tigers for a potential rally.
Social media didn’t like the call.
Dabo Swinney really didn’t like the call.
It was controversial, and it was significant. But it didn’t clear the threshold for egregious; it wasn’t a call that we’ll be talking about for days and weeks, that will get tossed in the Pac-12’s face for eternity.
The crew absolutely got three key calls correct:
* The pylon touchdown by LSU’s Thaddeus Moss
* The targeting/ejection of Clemson linebacker James Skalski, who clearly used his helmet as a weapon
* The defensive pass interference on LSU that negated an interception.
All three were spot on.
The Pac-12 crew was fortunate in that there were no ultra-close, change-of-possession instances in which the call on the field is wrong but inconclusive replay angles prevent a booth overturn.
But while lucky, the crew was also good.
It was good by the Pac-12’s standards, and it was good by any standards.
Support the Hotline: Several Hotline articles will remain free each month (as will the newsletter), but for access to all content, you’ll need to subscribe. I’ve secured a rate of $1 per week for a full year or — introductory offer alert! — just 99 cents for the first month, with the option to cancel anytime. Click here. And thanks for your loyalty.
*** Send suggestions, comments and tips (confidentiality guaranteed) to pac12hotline@bayareanewsgroup.com or call 408-920-5716
*** Follow me on Twitter: @WilnerHotline
*** Pac-12 Hotline is not endorsed or sponsored by the Pac-12 Conference, and the views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the Conference.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Denver weather: Sunny skies and warm temperatures continue through the week

Metro area residents won ’ t have much to complain about when it comes to the weather this week .
@ @ @ @ @ with a high temperature near 53 degrees and an overnight low around 26 .
Similarly @ @ @ @ @ to be sunny with a high near 50 degrees and an overnight low around 23 @ @ @ @ @ to be partly sunny with a high near 49 degrees and an overnight low around @ @ @ @ @ be mostly sunny , with a little bit of breeze , ” Bowen said .
@ @ @ @ @ to be near 53 degrees and an overnight low around 24 .
The weekend is @ @ @ @ @ the same .
Saturday ’ s high temperature is expected to be near 47 degrees @ @ @ @ @ 26 .
Skies will be partly sunny .
While Sunday is expected to again be @ @ @ @ @ high temperature near 50 degrees and an overnight low around 25 .

Metro area residents won’t have much to complain about when it comes to the weather this week.
“Sunny skies and warm temperatures,” said Kari Bowen, National Weather Service meteorologist.
Tuesday is forecast be sunny with a high temperature near 53 degrees and an overnight low around 26.
Similarly, Wednesday is also expected to be sunny with a high near 50 degrees and an overnight low around 23.
Thursday is also forecast to be partly sunny with a high near 49 degrees and an overnight low around 32.
Friday “will be mostly sunny, with a little bit of breeze,” Bowen said. The high temperature is expected to be near 53 degrees and an overnight low around 24.
The weekend is expected to be more of the same. Saturday’s high temperature is expected to be near 47 degrees and the overnight low around 26. Skies will be partly sunny. While Sunday is expected to again be partly sunny day with a high temperature near 50 degrees and an overnight low around 25.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Iran announces arrests over downing of Ukrainian plane that killed 176

TEHRAN , Iran — Iran ’ s judiciary said Tuesday arrests have been made for the accidental shootdown of a Ukrainian passenger plane that killed all 176 people on board just after takeoff from Tehran last week .
The announcement came amid an upswell of anger and protests by Iranians in recent days over the downing of the jetliner last Wednesday and apparent attempts by senior officials in Iran to cover up the cause of the crash .
Iran , which initially dismissed allegations that a missile had brought down the plane , acknowledged only on Saturday — three days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence — that its Revolutionary Guard had shot down the plane by mistake as the force braced for a possible military confrontation with the United States .
Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili said “ extensive investigations have taken place and some individuals are arrested.
” His statement on the judiciary ’ s website did not say how many individuals had been detained or name them .
Iran ’ s president on Tuesday also called for a special court to be set up to probe the incident .
“ The judiciary should form a special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of experts , ” President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech televised in Iran .
“ This is not an ordinary case .
The entire the world will be watching this court.
” Rouhani called the incident “ a painful and unforgivable ” mistake and promised that his administration would pursue the case “ by all means.
” “ The responsibility falls on more than just one person , ” he said , adding that those found culpable “ should be punished.
” “ There are others , too , and I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” he said , without elaborating .
Iran shot down the plane as its forces were on alert for possible U.S. retaliation after Iran launched ballistic missiles on two military bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq .
No one was hurt in that attack , which was carried out in response to the stunning killing of Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani in an American airstrike in Baghdad .
While Rouhani pointed to mistakes and negligence , he also repeated the government ’ s line that the tragedy was ultimately rooted in U.S. aggression @ @ @ @ @ @ @ made for an agitated environment .
It was the U.S. that created an unusual situation .
It was the U.S. that threatened and took our beloved ( Soleimani ) , ” he said .
Rouhani called the government ’ s admission that Iranian forces shot down the plane a “ first good step.
” He added that Iranian experts who retrieved the Ukrainian plane ’ s flight recorder , the so-called black box , have sent it to France for analysis .
The plane , en route to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crew members from several countries , including 82 Iranians , 57 Canadians — including many Iranians with dual citizenship — and 11 Ukrainians , according to officials .
There were several children among the passengers , including an infant .
Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh , the head of the Guard ’ s aerospace division , said over the weekend his unit accepts full responsibility for the shootdown .
He said when he learned about the downing of the plane , “ I wished I was dead.
” The incident raised questions about why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ airport or airspace the day it was on alert for U.S. military retaliation .
The shootdown and the lack of transparency around it has reignited anger in Iran at the country ’ s leadership .
Online videos appeared to show security forces firing live ammunition and tear gas to disperse protests in the streets .
Also Tuesday , Iran ’ s judiciary said that 30 people had been detained in the protests , and that some were released , without elaborating further .
An Iranian film director who ’ d called for protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Freedom , Square is among those released .
Iranian authorities briefly arrested British Ambassador Rob Macaire on Saturday evening .
He ’ s said he went to a candlelight vigil to pay his respects for the victims of the Ukrainian plane shootdown and left as soon as the chanting began and it turned into a protest .
Iran ’ s Foreign Ministry summoned the British ambassador on Sunday to protest what it said was his presence at an illegal protest .
Britain , in turn , summoned Iran ’ s ambassador on Monday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over the weekend arrest .

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran’s judiciary said Tuesday arrests have been made for the accidental shootdown of a Ukrainian passenger plane that killed all 176 people on board just after takeoff from Tehran last week.
The announcement came amid an upswell of anger and protests by Iranians in recent days over the downing of the jetliner last Wednesday and apparent attempts by senior officials in Iran to cover up the cause of the crash.
Iran, which initially dismissed allegations that a missile had brought down the plane, acknowledged only on Saturday — three days after and in the face of mounting evidence — that its Revolutionary Guard had shot down the plane by mistake as the force braced for a possible military confrontation with the United States.
Judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili said “extensive investigations have taken place and some individuals are arrested.” His statement on the judiciary’s website did not say how many individuals had been detained or name them.
Iran’s president on Tuesday also called for a special court to be set up to probe the incident.
“The judiciary should form a special court with a ranking judge and dozens of experts,” President Hassan Rouhani said in a speech televised in Iran. “This is not an ordinary case. The entire the world will be watching this court.”
Rouhani called the incident “a painful and unforgivable” mistake and promised that his administration would pursue the case “by all means.”
“The responsibility falls on more than just one person,” he said, adding that those found culpable “should be punished.”
“There are others, too, and I want that this issue is expressed honestly,” he said, without elaborating.
Iran shot down the plane as its forces were on alert for possible U.S. retaliation after Iran launched ballistic missiles on two military bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq. No one was hurt in that attack, which was carried out in response to the stunning killing of Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani in an American airstrike in Baghdad.
While Rouhani pointed to mistakes and negligence, he also repeated the government’s line that the tragedy was ultimately rooted in U.S. aggression.
“It was the U.S. that made for an agitated environment. It was the U.S. that created an unusual situation. It was the U.S. that threatened and took our beloved (Soleimani),” he said.
Rouhani called the government’s admission that Iranian forces shot down the plane a “first good step.”
He added that Iranian experts who retrieved the Ukrainian plane’s flight recorder, the so-called black box, have sent it to France for analysis.
The plane, en route to the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, was carrying 167 passengers and nine crew members from several countries, including 82 Iranians, 57 Canadians — including many Iranians with dual citizenship — and 11 Ukrainians, according to officials. There were several children among the passengers, including an infant.
Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the head of the Guard’s aerospace division, said over the weekend his unit accepts full responsibility for the shootdown. He said when he learned about the downing of the plane, “I wished I was dead.”
The incident raised questions about why Iran did not shut down its international airport or airspace the day it was on alert for U.S. military retaliation.
The shootdown and the lack of transparency around it has reignited anger in Iran at the country’s leadership. Online videos appeared to show security forces firing live ammunition and tear gas to disperse protests in the streets.
Also Tuesday, Iran’s judiciary said that 30 people had been detained in the protests, and that some were released, without elaborating further. An Iranian film director who’d called for protests in Tehran’s Azadi, or Freedom, Square is among those released.
Iranian authorities briefly arrested British Ambassador Rob Macaire on Saturday evening. He’s said he went to a candlelight vigil to pay his respects for the victims of the Ukrainian plane shootdown and left as soon as the chanting began and it turned into a protest.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry summoned the British ambassador on Sunday to protest what it said was his presence at an illegal protest. Britain, in turn, summoned Iran’s ambassador on Monday “to convey our strong objections” over the weekend arrest.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Fight over Westminster farmland gets real with first hearing

A mounting fight over what happens to a large parcel of undisturbed farmland in the middle of Westminster is set to break into the open Tuesday , when city officials hold the first public hearing on the proposed 2,350-home Uplands development .
Karen Ray , with the Westminster Save the Farm citizens group , says she expects a large turnout of residents at the city ’ s planning commission hearing to speak out against the project , which would fill in approximately 235 acres near West 84th Avenue and Federal Boulevard with new homes , restaurants , stores and office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working farm for 100 years , ” Ray said of Uplands ’ premium parcel , a 150-acre square of cornfields that thousands of motorists drive past every day .
“ It offers Westminster as a whole , and this community in particular , the most stunning views of the Front Range.
” Ray , who has lived in Westminster ’ s Shaw Heights neighborhood for 11 years , said a Change.org petition has gathered more than 5,000 signatures from people asking the city to aim for preservation of as much of the Uplands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signing the petition hail from communities throughout the metro area , an indication of just how intense concerns about the pace of growth have become in and around Denver .
“ It ’ s just wrong to take what little history we have left in Westminster , ” wrote one city resident on the petition ’ s web page .
“ They ’ re going to make it to where we can ’ t see any beauty here , they just want us to see houses and buildings.
” But Jeff Handlin , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a partner in Uplands , said his project will actually provide access to what is currently private property and off-limits .
“ People are not allowed to sit , stand , park or anything on that property , ” he said .
“ We ’ re going to invite them in.
” He said there will be plenty of open space and parks in Uplands open to the public , and “ better connections for bicycles sidewalk-wise.
” Handlin also noted that his team is proposing 2,350 homes for the project , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently allows under its land use regulations .
“ We determined that that was too dense , ” he said of the original allotment .
Ultimately , Handlin said , it ’ s not up to him whether the land is preserved as open space or a working farm .
The five parcels that encompass Uplands have long been owned by Pillar of Fire church , which made the decision to develop them .
The sale of the land to the Uplands team is incumbent on Westminster approving plans for the project .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ commission and city council are still ahead before a green light would be given to the project .
Several commercial property owners on the periphery of the project favor redevelopment at the site , hoping it can pump life back into a part of Westminster where retail activity has languished .
Joshua Kaatz , general partner of the Summit Square Shopping Center at West 84th Avenue and Federal Boulevard , wrote to the city in December that a grocery store and other retail tenants in his center have recently closed shop .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for positive change in the surrounding retail and commercial properties in general , ” he wrote .

A mounting fight over what happens to a large parcel of undisturbed farmland in the middle of Westminster is set to break into the open Tuesday, when city officials hold the first public hearing on the proposed 2,350-home Uplands development.
Karen Ray, with the Westminster Save the Farm citizens group, says she expects a large turnout of residents at the city’s planning commission hearing to speak out against the project, which would fill in approximately 235 acres near West 84th Avenue and Federal Boulevard with new homes, restaurants, stores and office space.
“This has been a working farm for 100 years,” Ray said of Uplands’ premium parcel, a 150-acre square of cornfields that thousands of motorists drive past every day. “It offers Westminster as a whole, and this community in particular, the most stunning views of the Front Range.”
Ray, who has lived in Westminster’s Shaw Heights neighborhood for 11 years, said a Change.org petition has gathered more than 5,000 signatures from people asking the city to aim for preservation of as much of the Uplands acreage as possible.
Many of those signing the petition hail from communities throughout the metro area, an indication of just how intense concerns about the pace of growth have become in and around Denver.
“It’s just wrong to take what little history we have left in Westminster,” wrote one city resident on the petition’s web page. “They’re going to make it to where we can’t see any beauty here, they just want us to see houses and buildings.”
But Jeff Handlin, president of Centennial-based Oread Capital & Development and a partner in Uplands, said his project will actually provide access to what is currently private property and off-limits.
“People are not allowed to sit, stand, park or anything on that property,” he said. “We’re going to invite them in.”
He said there will be plenty of open space and parks in Uplands open to the public, and “better connections for bicycles sidewalk-wise.” Handlin also noted that his team is proposing 2,350 homes for the project, far fewer than the 3,500 the city currently allows under its land use regulations.
“We determined that that was too dense,” he said of the original allotment.
Ultimately, Handlin said, it’s not up to him whether the land is preserved as open space or a working farm. The five parcels that encompass Uplands have long been owned by Pillar of Fire church, which made the decision to develop them.
The sale of the land to the Uplands team is incumbent on Westminster approving plans for the project. A series of meetings before the planning commission and city council are still ahead before a green light would be given to the project.
Several commercial property owners on the periphery of the project favor redevelopment at the site, hoping it can pump life back into a part of Westminster where retail activity has languished.
Joshua Kaatz, general partner of the Summit Square Shopping Center at West 84th Avenue and Federal Boulevard, wrote to the city in December that a grocery store and other retail tenants in his center have recently closed shop.
“This project will act as an impetus for positive change in the surrounding retail and commercial properties in general,” he wrote.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Tristan Wirfs to the Broncos? Bleacher Report’s NFL mock draft has tackle coming to Denver.

Tell me if you ’ ve heard this before : Another mock draft , another different pick for the Broncos .
Bleacher Report ’ s Kristopher Knox has Denver selecting Iowa offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs with the 15th overall pick .
Wirfs , 20 , is a 6-foot-5 , 322-pound junior who has seen his stock steadily rise on a number of draft boards .
ESPN ’ s Mel Kiper has him as the second-best offensive tackle ( behind Georgia ’ s Andrew Thomas ) and the 20th overall prospect in the draft .
“ Wirfs , a former high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the Hawkeyes — though he has had a few series on the left side — and he just mauls defenders , ” Kiper writes .
“ Dominates them .
He has incredible strength and power … and he can also move his feet.
” It ’ s been a hodgepodge of Broncos picks in other mock drafts .
CBS Sports had Denver going for Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III .
ESPN ’ s Todd McShay has LSU safety Grant Delpit Broncos-bound .
And USA Today has the team selecting South Carolina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enjoy the Denver Sports Omelette , tell a friend it ’ s easy to sign up here for our daily sports roundup .
If you have any questions or suggestions , hit me up on Twitter @ joenguyen or by email .
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Subscribe to The Denver Post ’ s sports coverage for just 99¢ for the first month and only $ 6.99/month thereafter .
Cancel anytime .
Check out our new and improved stats page .
To beat Pat Mahomes , Broncos and Pat Shurmur @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dunk , ya get punked .
The Kansas City Chiefs took the first quarter off against the Houston Texans on Sunday , and still dropped 51 points over the last 40 minutes .
Point of reference : It took the Broncos the first four weeks of the regular season to score 51 .
Read more… What potential returns could the Rockies get if Nolan Arenado is traded ?
With a trade of Nolan Arenado looking more likely by the week , three particular clubs keep getting tied to a potential deal for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hall of Fame case for former Broncos linebacker Randy Gradishar — the leader of the Orange Crush defense So will the vaunted Orange Crush finally get a player into the Hall of Fame ?
Broncos coach Vic Fangio lauded Gradishar as “ a ( heck ) of a player in his time , and he had a great name for a linebacker too.
” Gradishar was inducted into the Broncos ’ Ring of Fame in 1989 , Kyle Newman writes .
Read more… + “ He got his clock cleaned ” : Jerami @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Nuggets ’ postseason goals .
+ Astros manager AJ Hinch , GM fired after MLB suspends them for sign-stealing .
+ How to be a Colorado ski bum .
+ Sizing up Tom Brady ’ s situation and the 2020 free agent quarterback class .
+ What we learned in the NFL ’ s divisional round .
+ Marshawn Lynch “ not sure ” on future after two touchdowns in Seahawks ’ loss .
+ Broncos Mailbag : Have a question about the team ?
Ask Ryan O ’ Halloran here .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the team ?
Ask Mike Singer here .
+ Avs Mailbag : Have a question about the team ?
Ask Mike Chambers here .
+ Rockies Mailbag : Have a question about the team ?
Ask Patrick Saunders here .
Where the CU Buffs men ’ s basketball team is ranked in this week ’ s AP poll .
Read more… Kiz vs. Singer : Should Nuggets trade Malik Beasley or Juancho Hernangomez ?
Malik Beasley and Juancho Hernangomez are two pretty fair NBA players stuck at the end of the bench @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or both — of these guys ?
Mark Kiszla and Mike Singer debate .
Read more… If you see something that ’ s cause for question or have a comment , thought or suggestion , email me at dboniface @ denverpost.com or tweet me @ danielboniface .

Tell me if you’ve heard this before: Another mock draft, another different pick for the Broncos.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has Denver selecting Iowa offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs with the 15th overall pick.
Wirfs, 20, is a 6-foot-5, 322-pound junior who has seen his stock steadily rise on a number of draft boards. ESPN’s Mel Kiper has him as the second-best offensive tackle (behind Georgia’s Andrew Thomas) and the 20th overall prospect in the draft.
“Wirfs, a former high school wrestling champion, plays right tackle for the Hawkeyes — though he has had a few series on the left side — and he just mauls defenders,” Kiper writes. “Dominates them. He has incredible strength and power … and he can also move his feet.”
It’s been a hodgepodge of Broncos picks in other mock drafts. CBS Sports had Denver going for Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III. ESPN’s Todd McShay has LSU safety Grant Delpit Broncos-bound. And USA Today has the team selecting South Carolina defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw.
If you enjoy the Denver Sports Omelette, tell a friend it’s easy to sign up here for our daily sports roundup. If you have any questions or suggestions, hit me up on Twitter @joenguyen or by email.
— Joe Nguyen, The Denver Post
A special offer for Sports Omelette readers! Subscribe to The Denver Post’s sports coverage for just 99¢ for the first month and only $6.99/month thereafter. Cancel anytime.
What’s on Tap?
Avalanche: Dallas Stars, 7 p.m. Tuesday, ALT
Dallas Stars, 7 p.m. Tuesday, ALT Nuggets: Charlotte Hornets, 7 p.m. Wednesday, ALT
TV/RADIO: Here’s what sports are airing today
Scoreboard
CFP Championship Game: LSU 42, Clemson 25
Full story | Box score
Check out our new and improved stats page.
Must-Read
Dink and dunk, ya get punked. The Kansas City Chiefs took the first quarter off against the Houston Texans on Sunday, and still dropped 51 points over the last 40 minutes. Point of reference: It took the Broncos the first four weeks of the regular season to score 51. Read more…
With a trade of Nolan Arenado looking more likely by the week, three particular clubs keep getting tied to a potential deal for the Rockies third baseman. Read more…
So will the vaunted Orange Crush finally get a player into the Hall of Fame? Broncos coach Vic Fangio lauded Gradishar as “a (heck) of a player in his time, and he had a great name for a linebacker too.” Gradishar was inducted into the Broncos’ Ring of Fame in 1989, Kyle Newman writes. Read more…
Quick Hits
+ “He got his clock cleaned”: Jerami Grant’s toughness, defense essential to Nuggets’ postseason goals.
+ Astros manager AJ Hinch, GM fired after MLB suspends them for sign-stealing.
+ CHSAA Hall of Fame announces 31st anniversary class.
+ CU Buffs basketball notes: Evan Battey’s glass work helps spark Buffs against Utah.
+ How to be a Colorado ski bum.
+ Sizing up Tom Brady’s situation and the 2020 free agent quarterback class.
+ What we learned in the NFL’s divisional round.
+ Marshawn Lynch “not sure” on future after two touchdowns in Seahawks’ loss.
+ NHL All-Star game to feature women 3-on-3 event, AP source says.
Ask The Experts
+ Broncos Mailbag: Have a question about the team? Ask Ryan O’Halloran here.
+ Nuggets Mailbag: Have a question about the team? Ask Mike Singer here.
+ Avs Mailbag: Have a question about the team? Ask Mike Chambers here.
+ Rockies Mailbag: Have a question about the team? Ask Patrick Saunders here.
By The Numbers
No. 20
Where the CU Buffs men’s basketball team is ranked in this week’s AP poll. Read more…
Parting Shot
Malik Beasley and Juancho Hernangomez are two pretty fair NBA players stuck at the end of the bench. Should the Nuggets move one — or both — of these guys? Mark Kiszla and Mike Singer debate. Read more…
Get in Touch
If you see something that’s cause for question or have a comment, thought or suggestion, email me at dboniface@denverpost.com or tweet me @danielboniface.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Broncos Mailbag: Best draft strategy for John Elway — Go big or stockpile picks?

Denver Post Broncos writer Ryan O ’ Halloran posts his Broncos Mailbag weekly during the season .
You can pose a Broncos- or NFL-related question for the Broncos Mailbag here .
Follow Ryan for more daily updates on Twitter .
The Broncos firing offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello is a plus heading in the right direction , especially if the Broncos can get Pat Shurmur from the Giants .
Will the Broncos run more fullback and tight end plays ?
And will the Broncos keep Chris Harris and let Isaac Yiadom go ?
— Sam Jones , Fairfield , Calif. We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Scangarello and to Shurmur is a positive .
What stood out watching the Giants-Arizona game ( Shurmur was New York ’ s coach and play-caller ) was that they didn ’ t use the fullback ( only six snaps ) .
That would be a major departure from the Shanahan System used by Scangarello .
But the offense should be tight end friendly .
In 2018 , Evan Engram had 45 catches in 11 games and he had 44 catches in eight games this year .
That ’ s good news for Noah @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tailback who can catch passes .
Saquon Barkley had a whopping 141 catches in two seasons .
As for cornerback , Yiadom is under contract so his status is unchanged right now .
Harris hits free agency in mid-March and I ’ m probably in the minority in believing he will stay with the Broncos .
Ryan , how will Pat Shurmur shape the Broncos ’ offense ?
He seems like he has a strong track record with quarterbacks .
I ’ d love to see what he can do with Drew Lock @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more weapons to beef up the receiving corps ?
We have talent but lack experience and depth .
— Kyle , Fort Collins I hit on some parts of Shurmur ’ s offense in an analysis piece earlier this week .
In the game I charted ( home loss to Arizona ) , he used “ 11 ” personnel ( three receivers/one back/one tight end ) on 51 of 70 snaps .
That amplifies the need for the Broncos to consider a speedy receiver in the first round to complement Sutton .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The draft is supposedly loaded at receiver so does he take a cornerback or inside linebacker at No .
15 knowing he can still get a good one in the second round ?
The skill players on hand gained valuable experience over the last year ( Lock/Fant ) or two seasons ( Sutton/Phillip Lindsay/Royce Freeman ) .
What ’ s the best use of all the draft picks ?
Fill several holes or package some of them and go big ?
— Stu Mitchell , Santa Monica , Calif .
This will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three months .
The Broncos currently have five picks in the opening three rounds and seven picks in rounds 1-4 — plenty of chips to help the depth chart … or move up to get a player they covet .
I ’ ve always favored the filling of several spots because the more kicks at the can , the more chances to hit on a pick .
But watch for the second round : The Broncos could use one of their third-rounders to move to the top of the second round .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ checked during free agency .
Ryan , I got it !
Backup quarterback , go get Trevor Siemian .
You weren ’ t here when he was , but he ’ s experienced and kind of competent .
What do you think ?
— Jim , Denver Siemian is a free agent after starting one game for the New York Jets and sustaining a season-ending broken ankle .
He has 25 starts of NFL experience ( 24 with the Broncos , 13-11 record ) .
But this is where Shurmur ’ s imminent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Scangarello may have been comfortable with Brandon Allen and/or Brett Rypien as the backups to Lock .
Shurmur may prefer a No .
2 quarterback who is well-versed in his offense .
Aside from the penalties , how do you rate left tackle Garett Bolles ‘ blocking ?
I ’ m wondering if he needs to be replaced even if he can stop getting the penalties .
— Craig B. , Lehi , Utah Bolles led the Broncos with 17 penalties and 10 enforced penalties .
Way too many as everybody knows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on is the improvement he showed in the second half of the season carries over to 2020 .
Games 1-8 : Nine penalties , 15 pass-rush “ disruptions ” allowed and 1 1/ 2 “ bad ” run plays ( gain of one or fewer yards ) .
Games 9-16 : Eight penalties , five pass-rush “ disruptions ” and three “ bad ” run plays .
The strides in protection are notable .
I wouldn ’ t pick up his fifth-year option , though — make him earn that second contract .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ reach the playoffs in 2020 is to win the AFC West and the only way to do that is to beat Kansas City .
And the only way to beat the Chiefs is to draft a player to finally cover a good tight end .
Until John Elway and Vic Fangio figure out how to stop teams with a mediocre or better tight end , they will continue to lose games .
Ryan , what do you suggest ?
Too much time on my hands now that our pheasant season closed .
— @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Broncos scored one touchdown against the Chiefs in two games this year .
Kansas City scored four touchdowns … in the second quarter of Sunday ’ s win over Houston .
The gulf is wide .
The Broncos had a chance to draft inside linebacker Devin Bush at No .
10 overall last year , but traded down 10 spots to take Fant , part of a package that includes a third-rounder this year .
What the Broncos decide with leading tackler Todd Davis will crystallize if they think covering the tight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Broncos should take a close look at all of the top inside linebackers and see if they can make a good tandem with Alexander Johnson .
Do you think Randy Gradishar gets into the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year ?
He was incredible way back when for Denver .
— George Miller , Parker Colleague Kyle Newman wrote about Gradishar ’ s candidacy earlier this week .
The final 19 members of the “ Centennial Slate ” will be announced on NFL Network starting Wednesday at 5 a.m. MST .
Gradishar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 15 spots reserved for senior players .
That the “ Orange Crush ” defense doesn ’ t have a Hall of Famer is confusing .
He made seven Pro Bowls and was a two-time All-Pro selection and his 2,049 tackles are most in Broncos history .

Denver Post Broncos writer Ryan O’Halloran posts his Broncos Mailbag weekly during the season.
You can pose a Broncos- or NFL-related question for the Broncos Mailbag here. Follow Ryan for more daily updates on Twitter.
The Broncos firing offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello is a plus heading in the right direction, especially if the Broncos can get Pat Shurmur from the Giants. Will the Broncos run more fullback and tight end plays? And will the Broncos keep Chris Harris and let Isaac Yiadom go?
— Sam Jones, Fairfield, Calif.
We’ll see if moving away from Scangarello and to Shurmur is a positive. What stood out watching the Giants-Arizona game (Shurmur was New York’s coach and play-caller) was that they didn’t use the fullback (only six snaps). That would be a major departure from the Shanahan System used by Scangarello. But the offense should be tight end friendly. In 2018, Evan Engram had 45 catches in 11 games and he had 44 catches in eight games this year. That’s good news for Noah Fant. The other component is a tailback who can catch passes. Saquon Barkley had a whopping 141 catches in two seasons. As for cornerback, Yiadom is under contract so his status is unchanged right now. Harris hits free agency in mid-March and I’m probably in the minority in believing he will stay with the Broncos.
Ryan, how will Pat Shurmur shape the Broncos’ offense? He seems like he has a strong track record with quarterbacks. I’d love to see what he can do with Drew Lock, but do you think we need more weapons to beef up the receiving corps? We have talent but lack experience and depth.
— Kyle, Fort Collins
I hit on some parts of Shurmur’s offense in an analysis piece earlier this week. In the game I charted (home loss to Arizona), he used “11” personnel (three receivers/one back/one tight end) on 51 of 70 snaps. That amplifies the need for the Broncos to consider a speedy receiver in the first round to complement Sutton. The challenge for general manager John Elway: The draft is supposedly loaded at receiver so does he take a cornerback or inside linebacker at No. 15 knowing he can still get a good one in the second round? The skill players on hand gained valuable experience over the last year (Lock/Fant) or two seasons (Sutton/Phillip Lindsay/Royce Freeman).
What’s the best use of all the draft picks? Fill several holes or package some of them and go big?
— Stu Mitchell, Santa Monica, Calif.
This will be a great talking point for the next three months. The Broncos currently have five picks in the opening three rounds and seven picks in rounds 1-4 — plenty of chips to help the depth chart … or move up to get a player they covet. I’ve always favored the filling of several spots because the more kicks at the can, the more chances to hit on a pick. But watch for the second round: The Broncos could use one of their third-rounders to move to the top of the second round. A lot depends on what depth boxes are checked during free agency.
Ryan, I got it! Backup quarterback, go get Trevor Siemian. You weren’t here when he was, but he’s experienced and kind of competent. What do you think?
— Jim, Denver
Siemian is a free agent after starting one game for the New York Jets and sustaining a season-ending broken ankle. He has 25 starts of NFL experience (24 with the Broncos, 13-11 record). But this is where Shurmur’s imminent arrival could change the plan at quarterback. Scangarello may have been comfortable with Brandon Allen and/or Brett Rypien as the backups to Lock. Shurmur may prefer a No. 2 quarterback who is well-versed in his offense.
Aside from the penalties, how do you rate left tackle Garett Bolles‘ blocking? I’m wondering if he needs to be replaced even if he can stop getting the penalties.
— Craig B., Lehi, Utah
Bolles led the Broncos with 17 penalties and 10 enforced penalties. Way too many as everybody knows. But what the Broncos are counting on is the improvement he showed in the second half of the season carries over to 2020. Games 1-8: Nine penalties, 15 pass-rush “disruptions” allowed and 1 1/ 2 “bad” run plays (gain of one or fewer yards). Games 9-16: Eight penalties, five pass-rush “disruptions” and three “bad” run plays. The strides in protection are notable. I wouldn’t pick up his fifth-year option, though — make him earn that second contract.
The best way for the Broncos to reach the playoffs in 2020 is to win the AFC West and the only way to do that is to beat Kansas City. And the only way to beat the Chiefs is to draft a player to finally cover a good tight end. Until John Elway and Vic Fangio figure out how to stop teams with a mediocre or better tight end, they will continue to lose games. Ryan, what do you suggest? Too much time on my hands now that our pheasant season closed.
— George Vandel, Pierre, S.D.
The Broncos scored one touchdown against the Chiefs in two games this year. Kansas City scored four touchdowns … in the second quarter of Sunday’s win over Houston. The gulf is wide. The Broncos had a chance to draft inside linebacker Devin Bush at No. 10 overall last year, but traded down 10 spots to take Fant, part of a package that includes a third-rounder this year. What the Broncos decide with leading tackler Todd Davis will crystallize if they think covering the tight end is a big problem. The Broncos should take a close look at all of the top inside linebackers and see if they can make a good tandem with Alexander Johnson.
Do you think Randy Gradishar gets into the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year? He was incredible way back when for Denver.
— George Miller, Parker
Colleague Kyle Newman wrote about Gradishar’s candidacy earlier this week. The final 19 members of the “Centennial Slate” will be announced on NFL Network starting Wednesday at 5 a.m. MST. Gradishar is one of 38 finalists for the 15 spots reserved for senior players. That the “Orange Crush” defense doesn’t have a Hall of Famer is confusing. He made seven Pro Bowls and was a two-time All-Pro selection and his 2,049 tackles are most in Broncos history.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--“The boom is over”: Colorado cannabis growers hope volatile wholesale market is stabilizing

Entrepreneurs who broke into Colorado ’ s cannabis industry at the ground level — the growers — have endured economic whiplash over the last two years as the market for wholesale flower experienced volatile swings in price .
The average market rate slumped to a low of $ 759 per pound in 2018 after peaking at $ 2,007 per pound in early 2015 .
That rate has rebounded to $ 1,316 per pound this month , after five consecutive quarters on the rise , reaching the highest price in three years .
Still , many anticipate the wholesale cost will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least they ’ re hoping it will .
“ The boom is over and now we ’ re looking at a more mature market , ” said Christian Hageseth , CEO and chairman of One Cannabis , which expects to produce 14,000 pounds of marijuana in Colorado in 2020 .
In the six years since recreational legalization , Colorado ’ s $ 7.6 billion cannabis industry has been grappling with stabilization between the forces of supply and demand .
And that ’ s perhaps no more evident than in the wholesale market @ @ @ @ @ @ @ licensed retail grows in the state peaked at 744 , according to data from the Colorado Department of Revenue ’ s Marijuana Enforcement Division .
The influx of new cultivators and crops led to a downward swing in the average market rate , with pounds of flower selling for less than they cost to harvest and process , said Josh Monroe , owner of Fat Face Farms in Denver .
New state regulations mandating pesticide testing and microbial contamination testing only compounded the problem , forcing many farmers who couldn ’ t recoup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end of 2019 , Colorado cultivation licenses dropped 8 % to 683 businesses , according to the Marijuana Enforcement Division .
“ You have to be agile and able to adapt quickly to the really rapidly changing environment , ” said Monroe , who ’ s in the process of selling his 6-year-old indoor operation to industry giant Cannabis One Holdings .
Those who work in the industry are accustomed to wholesale price fluctuations in the fall , when plants from outdoor cultivations are harvested .
“ Croptober , ” as Hageseth calls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wholesale prices this year , however , due in part to an early freeze and a crackdown on illicit operations , he said .
The average market rate , which changes quarterly , is the number the state uses when collecting its 15 % excise tax on sales and transfers between grows and stores .
Technology also plays a role , as new software has enabled a digital marketplace for wholesale cannabis .
Cultivators now upload their inventory , test results and pictures to digital platforms where buyers can compare products .
With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” most strains fetch the average market rate , Monroe said , or growers risk being priced out completely .
“ It ’ s become a very efficient market , so it ’ s pretty inelastic , ” he said .
And in an industry in which profit margins often are described as thin , thanks in part to federal regulation that prohibits cannabis businesses from taking substantial tax deductions , additional testing for things like heavy metals , required as of January , is expected to eat into the bottom line .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it ’ s a business that ’ s flush with cash and creating marijuana millionaires , ” said Mike Lord , director of business development of LivWell , which operates two grows and 16 retail stores in Colorado and Oregon .
“ It ’ s a hard business like any other business.
” Though some market indicators suggest Colorado ’ s cannabis climate may soon be fully baked , there are others destined to incite change .
Lord expects to see continued consolidation in the space following a 2019 law that allows @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enabled companies like Denver ’ s Medicine Man to acquire independent dispensaries and product manufacturers .
And any movement on the federal level , such as approval of SAFE Banking Act to allow marijuana businesses access to bank services , would surely have local implications .
For now , Hageseth and others are waiting for the point of equilibrium .
“ I hope the market settles out , that we get the right amount of producers selling at the right price , so everyone makes some money , ” Hageseth said .

Entrepreneurs who broke into Colorado’s cannabis industry at the ground level — the growers — have endured economic whiplash over the last two years as the market for wholesale flower experienced volatile swings in price.
The average market rate slumped to a low of $759 per pound in 2018 after peaking at $2,007 per pound in early 2015. That rate has rebounded to $1,316 per pound this month, after five consecutive quarters on the rise, reaching the highest price in three years.
Still, many anticipate the wholesale cost will remain relatively flat in 2020. Or at least they’re hoping it will.
“The boom is over and now we’re looking at a more mature market,” said Christian Hageseth, CEO and chairman of One Cannabis, which expects to produce 14,000 pounds of marijuana in Colorado in 2020.
In the six years since recreational legalization, Colorado’s $7.6 billion cannabis industry has been grappling with stabilization between the forces of supply and demand. And that’s perhaps no more evident than in the wholesale market.
In mid-2018, the number of licensed retail grows in the state peaked at 744, according to data from the Colorado Department of Revenue’s Marijuana Enforcement Division. The influx of new cultivators and crops led to a downward swing in the average market rate, with pounds of flower selling for less than they cost to harvest and process, said Josh Monroe, owner of Fat Face Farms in Denver.
New state regulations mandating pesticide testing and microbial contamination testing only compounded the problem, forcing many farmers who couldn’t recoup their expenses to shutter. By the end of 2019, Colorado cultivation licenses dropped 8% to 683 businesses, according to the Marijuana Enforcement Division.
“You have to be agile and able to adapt quickly to the really rapidly changing environment,” said Monroe, who’s in the process of selling his 6-year-old indoor operation to industry giant Cannabis One Holdings.
Those who work in the industry are accustomed to wholesale price fluctuations in the fall, when plants from outdoor cultivations are harvested. “Croptober,” as Hageseth calls it, had no noticeable effect on wholesale prices this year, however, due in part to an early freeze and a crackdown on illicit operations, he said.
The average market rate, which changes quarterly, is the number the state uses when collecting its 15% excise tax on sales and transfers between grows and stores.
Technology also plays a role, as new software has enabled a digital marketplace for wholesale cannabis. Cultivators now upload their inventory, test results and pictures to digital platforms where buyers can compare products. With the exception of “some unicorns,” most strains fetch the average market rate, Monroe said, or growers risk being priced out completely.
“It’s become a very efficient market, so it’s pretty inelastic,” he said.
And in an industry in which profit margins often are described as thin, thanks in part to federal regulation that prohibits cannabis businesses from taking substantial tax deductions, additional testing for things like heavy metals, required as of January, is expected to eat into the bottom line.
“The cannabis industry gets this reputation that it’s a business that’s flush with cash and creating marijuana millionaires,” said Mike Lord, director of business development of LivWell, which operates two grows and 16 retail stores in Colorado and Oregon. “It’s a hard business like any other business.”
Though some market indicators suggest Colorado’s cannabis climate may soon be fully baked, there are others destined to incite change. Lord expects to see continued consolidation in the space following a 2019 law that allows public funding in cannabis. That law enabled companies like Denver’s Medicine Man to acquire independent dispensaries and product manufacturers.
And any movement on the federal level, such as approval of SAFE Banking Act to allow marijuana businesses access to bank services, would surely have local implications.
For now, Hageseth and others are waiting for the point of equilibrium.
“I hope the market settles out, that we get the right amount of producers selling at the right price, so everyone makes some money,” Hageseth said.


thedenverpost--2020-01-15--Student shot at Texas high school; suspect still at large

A student was shot Tuesday at a high school in Texas and a suspect remained at large , local officials @ @ @ @ @ seen performing CPR as the student was carried on a stretcher to an ambulance outside @ @ @ @ @ reports .
There were conflicting media reports about whether the shooting happened inside or outside @ @ @ @ @ , a suburb south west of Houston , confirmed on Twitter that there was a @ @ @ @ @ is still at large .
It advised resident to avoid the area around the school @ @ @ @ @ .
Television footage from the school showed students gathered outside and police cars and an @ @ @ @ @ .
Police and school officials could not be immediately reached for comment .

BELLAIRE, Texas (AP) — A 19-year-old student was shot to death Tuesday at a Texas high school, and a suspect was arrested hours later, officials said.
Grenita Lathan, interim superintendent of the Houston Independent School District, confirmed the shooting victim at Bellaire High School had died. She gave no other information and took no questions.
A suspect and another person police said was connected to the case were arrested about 3 1/2 hours after the shooting Tuesday night, according to statements from the school district and Bellaire police. They said no other information would be released for now, including further details about where the shooting occurred in the school complex, whether the suspect was a student or what led to the arrest.
The district announced classes had been canceled Wednesday, after Latham originally said they were going on as scheduled.
Emergency crews were seen performing CPR as the student was carried on a stretcher to an ambulance outside the school, KPRC-TV reported. There were conflicting media reports about whether the shooting happened inside or outside the school.
The city, a suburb south west of Houston, confirmed on Twitter that there was a shooting and said the suspect is still at large. It advised resident to avoid the area around the school or remain in their homes. Officials gave no update on the suspect’s status later at a news conference.
Television footage from the school showed students gathered outside and police cars and an ambulance with their lights blazing.
___
This story has been corrected to reflect that the student killed was 19, not 16, and that the superintendent’s last name is Lathan, not Latham.


thedenverpost--2020-01-15--Businessman sentenced to 30 months in federal prison in conspiracy to bribe a veterans affairs offic

Businessman sentenced to 30 months in federal prison in conspiracy to bribe a veterans affairs official in Colorado

A businessman has been sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to bribe a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs official to gain unfair advantages in procuring contracts .
Anthony Bueno , 45 , was sentenced to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release , according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney ’ s Office , District of Colorado .
According to court records , Bueno and his business partner , Robert Revis , arranged for an undercover FBI agent to make payments to VA official Dwane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The undercover agent was posing as a veteran and small business owner .
Bueno was remanded into custody immediately after the sentencing before U.S. District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson , according to a Tuesday news release .
Bueno pleaded guilty in the case in September .
“ Illegally manipulating the government contracting process will result in harsh consequences , ” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn .
“ Mr .
Bueno will now have more than two years in federal prison and a lifetime as a convicted felon to think about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the bribery scheme , Bueno and Revis , conspiring with Nevins , a specialist at the VA ’ s Network Contracting Office in Colorado , “ agreed to submit bids from small businesses owned by veterans disabled during military service ( one of whom was the undercover FBI agent ) under contract with Bueno and Revis ’ consulting company so that federal contracts would be set aside for only those companies , ” according to the news release .
“ As Bueno explained to the undercover agent , the conspirators would then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track , ’ meaning their clients were guaranteed to get the contracts.
” Nevins pleaded guilty in September to every count of an indictment against him , including counts of conspiracy , receiving bribes , extortion , and criminal conflicts of interests .
He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 19 .
Revis pleaded guilty in April to a single count of supplementing the salary of a federal official .
His sentencing is scheduled for March 2 .
“ This sentence illustrates the serious consequences of undermining the federal contracting process , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in charge , VA ’ s Office of Inspector General .
“ We will always hold accountable those who seek to corrupt the VA ’ s business practices.
” Bueno also pleaded guilty in September , in a separate case , to conspiring to launder money in a wire fraud scheme in which he used false representation about investment opportunities to procure more than a million dollars from several victims .
Sentencing in that case is scheduled for Jan. 23 .

A businessman has been sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for his role in a conspiracy to bribe a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs official to gain unfair advantages in procuring contracts.
Anthony Bueno, 45, was sentenced to 30 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Colorado.
According to court records, Bueno and his business partner, Robert Revis, arranged for an undercover FBI agent to make payments to VA official Dwane Nevins to manipulate the government contracting process. The undercover agent was posing as a veteran and small business owner.
Bueno was remanded into custody immediately after the sentencing before U.S. District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson, according to a Tuesday news release. Bueno pleaded guilty in the case in September.
“Illegally manipulating the government contracting process will result in harsh consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Jason Dunn. “Mr. Bueno will now have more than two years in federal prison and a lifetime as a convicted felon to think about the harm he caused taxpayers.”
As part of the bribery scheme, Bueno and Revis, conspiring with Nevins, a specialist at the VA’s Network Contracting Office in Colorado, “agreed to submit bids from small businesses owned by veterans disabled during military service (one of whom was the undercover FBI agent) under contract with Bueno and Revis’ consulting company so that federal contracts would be set aside for only those companies,” according to the news release. “As Bueno explained to the undercover agent, the conspirators would then ‘own all the dogs on the track,’ meaning their clients were guaranteed to get the contracts.”
Nevins pleaded guilty in September to every count of an indictment against him, including counts of conspiracy, receiving bribes, extortion, and criminal conflicts of interests. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 19. Revis pleaded guilty in April to a single count of supplementing the salary of a federal official. His sentencing is scheduled for March 2.
“This sentence illustrates the serious consequences of undermining the federal contracting process,” said Gregg Hirstein, special agent in charge, VA’s Office of Inspector General. “We will always hold accountable those who seek to corrupt the VA’s business practices.”
Bueno also pleaded guilty in September, in a separate case, to conspiring to launder money in a wire fraud scheme in which he used false representation about investment opportunities to procure more than a million dollars from several victims. Sentencing in that case is scheduled for Jan. 23.


thedenverpost--2020-01-15--Speculation surrounds Cory Gardner’s vote on impeachment witnesses

U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner isn ’ t saying whether he is part of a small group of Republican senators considering allowing witnesses as impeachment charges against President Donald Trump prepare to move to Congress ’ upper chamber .
Gardner ’ s office declined again Tuesday to answer questions from The Denver Post about whether he would support a motion to dismiss the two charges against Trump or vote to allow witnesses in a Senate trial that ’ s expected to begin next week .
Republican Sens .
Susan Collins of Maine , Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitt Romney of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open the option of hearing from witnesses after opening arguments .
On Monday , CBS reported that the White House expects at least four Republicans will vote to call witnesses in the Senate trial .
That “ possibly ” includes Gardner , according to the report , though he has said nothing to indicate that he will .
There are 53 Senate Republicans , and a simple majority of 51 votes will be needed to pass trial rules .
Silence has become the norm for Gardner on the topic of impeachment .
His @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be called and whether he agrees with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell ’ s “ total coordination ” with the White House .
“ Is Nancy going to send the articles over ?
She doesn ’ t seem to care , ” Gardner told reporters on Capitol Hill when asked Jan. 6 whether former national security adviser John Bolton should testify .
“ You guys want to have a trial by Twitter but until she has the articles sent over , there is no trial.
” The House will vote Wednesday to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ abuse of power and obstruction of Congress — over to the Senate .
Because Monday is a federal holiday , the trial is slated to start with opening statements Tuesday , after nearly a month ’ s delay by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi .
“ I guess she decided she could no longer delay the inevitable — the Senate will put these articles where they belong , on the ash heap of history , ” said Rep. Doug Lamborn , a Colorado Springs Republican .
Trump has urged Senate Republicans to dismiss the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would give credence to Democrats ’ “ no-evidence , no-crime , read-the-transcripts , ‘ no pressure ’ impeachment hoax , ” the president said Sunday .
But several Senate Republicans oppose a motion to dismiss , meaning it likely lacks the votes needed for passage .
Gardner ’ s political opponents on both the right side of the spectrum and the left side have not waited to find out where , exactly , he stands .
They ’ ve scheduled protests outside his Denver office , called his Washington , D.C. , office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for impeachment votes they expect him to take .
“ You ’ re just another Trump servant : weak , frightened , impotent .
A small man terrified of a political bully , ” states an ad debuted Monday by The Lincoln Project , a super PAC for prominent anti-Trump Republicans .
The group ’ s co-founders shared the anti-Gardner video with their large Twitter followings and sent it bouncing around the internet Monday .
“ The Senate needs to hold a fair trial and ensure the American people have all the facts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top Democratic challenger to Gardner .
“ There are firsthand witnesses that Republicans in Washington are trying to stop from testifying .
A trial without witnesses and evidence isn ’ t a trial at all — it ’ s a sham .
No one is above the law .
”

Sen. Cory Gardner of Colorado isn’t saying whether he is part of a small group of Republican senators considering allowing witnesses as impeachment charges against President Donald Trump prepare to move to Congress’ upper chamber.
Gardner’s office declined again Tuesday to answer questions from The Denver Post about whether he would support a motion to dismiss the two charges against Trump or vote to allow witnesses in a Senate trial that’s expected to begin next week. Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitt Romney of Utah have said they want to keep open the option of hearing from witnesses after opening arguments.
CBS reported Monday that the White House expects at least four Republicans will vote to call witnesses in the Senate trial. That “possibly” includes Gardner, according to the report, though he has said nothing to indicate that he will. There are 53 Senate Republicans, and a simple majority of 51 votes will be needed to pass trial rules.
Silence has become the norm for Gardner on the topic of impeachment. His office previously declined to say whether witnesses should be called and whether he agrees with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s “total coordination” with the White House.
“Is Nancy going to send the articles over? She doesn’t seem to care,” Gardner told reporters on Capitol Hill when asked Jan. 6 whether former national security adviser John Bolton should testify. “You guys want to have a trial by Twitter but until she has the articles sent over, there is no trial.”
The House will vote Wednesday to send both articles of impeachment — for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress — to the Senate. Because Monday is a federal holiday, the trial is slated to start with opening statements Tuesday, after nearly a month’s delay by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.
“I guess she decided she could no longer delay the inevitable — the Senate will put these articles where they belong, on the ash heap of history,” said Rep. Doug Lamborn, a Colorado Springs Republican.
Trump has urged Senate Republicans to dismiss the articles of impeachment outright. A trial would give credence to Democrats’ “no-evidence, no-crime, read-the-transcripts, ‘no pressure’ impeachment hoax,” the president said Sunday. But several Senate Republicans oppose a motion to dismiss, meaning it likely lacks the votes needed for passage.
Gardner’s political opponents on both the right side of the spectrum and the left side have not waited to find out where, exactly, he stands. They have scheduled protests outside his Denver office, called his Washington office and crafted aggressive video ads bashing him for impeachment votes they expect him to take.
“You’re just another Trump servant: weak, frightened, impotent. A small man terrified of a political bully,” states an ad debuted Monday by The Lincoln Project, a super PAC for prominent anti-Trump Republicans. The group’s co-founders shared the anti-Gardner video with their large Twitter followings and sent it bouncing around the internet Monday.
“The Senate needs to hold a fair trial and ensure the American people have all the facts,” said John Hickenlooper, a top Democratic challenger to Gardner. “There are firsthand witnesses that Republicans in Washington are trying to stop from testifying. A trial without witnesses and evidence isn’t a trial at all — it’s a sham. No one is above the law.”


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Denver-based satellite company to launch new series of spacecraft

York Space Systems , a small-satellite manufacturer and operator , is launching what it calls its Hydra Missions series , aimed at getting more customers in space faster .
The first of the Denver-based company ’ s missions is scheduled for December , said Melanie Preisser , vice president of York ’ s national systems .
York said last week that the Hydra series of spacecraft will allow companies to send a full payload or specific parts or components into space .
York is one of a growing number of companies specializing in small satellites , considered an evolution in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spacecraft vary , from the size of a wine box , to a hotel mini fridge and larger .
York ’ s S-Class platform is similar in size to a standard office desk .
Small satellites provide services for the military well as companies dependent on global positioning system technology .
Advances in technology mean small satellites have some of the capabilities of larger satellites for much lower costs and a shorter production timeline .
“ Typically , there ’ s a long and somewhat expensive process for getting things ready to qualify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to space and there are long wait times , ” Preisser said .
“ And it ’ s really expensive to get into space , typically.
” York is offering to prepare the cargo , launch and operate the satellite for roughly $ 3 million for an entire payload or lower rates for partial payloads , which could include cameras to collect data .
“ Basically what we ’ re trying to do is create a way to streamline access to space and improve collaboration with new space industry , ” said Preisser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officer who handled space and intelligence acquisitions for the Air Force and the Pentagon .
York ’ s goal is to establish a reliable , regular schedule for customers who want to prove their technology and components can operate in space .
Last May , York launched its first satellite , which is still in orbit .
The company has a contract with the Air Force for two spacecraft .
“ One of the things we ’ re trying to do with Hydra is basically help the government as well as the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accelerate development and get more systems online quicker to basically keep pace with our rivals , ” Preisser said .
York , which started in 2016 , is expanding into a new production facility in Denver .
The company will maintain its office in the Aerospace and Engineering Sciences Building on the Metro State University campus .
It opened a Washington , D.C. , office in October .

York Space Systems, a small-satellite manufacturer and operator, is launching what it calls its Hydra Missions series, aimed at getting more customers in space faster.
The first of the Denver-based company’s missions is scheduled for December, said Melanie Preisser, vice president of York’s national systems. York said last week that the Hydra series of spacecraft will allow companies to send a full payload or specific parts or components into space.
York is one of a growing number of companies specializing in small satellites, considered an evolution in space technology. The dimensions of the spacecraft vary, from the size of a wine box, to a hotel mini fridge and larger. York’s S-Class platform is similar in size to a standard office desk.
Small satellites provide services for the military well as companies dependent on global positioning system technology. Advances in technology mean small satellites have some of the capabilities of larger satellites for much lower costs and a shorter production timeline.
“Typically, there’s a long and somewhat expensive process for getting things ready to qualify for flight and then getting them up to space and there are long wait times,” Preisser said. “And it’s really expensive to get into space, typically.”
York is offering to prepare the cargo, launch and operate the satellite for roughly $3 million for an entire payload or lower rates for partial payloads, which could include cameras to collect data.
“Basically what we’re trying to do is create a way to streamline access to space and improve collaboration with new space industry,” said Preisser, an engineer and former Air Force officer who handled space and intelligence acquisitions for the Air Force and the Pentagon.
York’s goal is to establish a reliable, regular schedule for customers who want to prove their technology and components can operate in space.
Last May, York launched its first satellite, which is still in orbit. The company has a contract with the Air Force for two spacecraft.
“One of the things we’re trying to do with Hydra is basically help the government as well as the U.S. commercial industry stay strong in space, accelerate development and get more systems online quicker to basically keep pace with our rivals,” Preisser said.
York, which started in 2016, is expanding into a new production facility in Denver. The company will maintain its office in the Aerospace and Engineering Sciences Building on the Metro State University campus. It opened a Washington, D.C., office in October.


thedenverpost--2020-01-14--Denver Public Schools cuts some preschool classrooms due to enrollment, space concerns

Parents who want to send their kids to preschool in Denver Public Schools may need to take a second look at their options , as eight schools cut classrooms and two eliminated programs for 3-year-olds .
Next school year , Stedman Elementary and Joe Shoemaker School will no longer offer preschool classes for 3-year-olds .
In Stedman ’ s case , the school decided to use the space for its popular Spanish immersion program for older students , while Shoemaker will use the classrooms for four-year-olds .
Eight other schools said they would cut one early childhood education classroom , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if each would be a class for 3- or 4-year-olds .
Most cited low enrollment in preschool , though two said they needed more space for their older grades .
Half of those schools rarely place children on waiting lists for preschool programs , according to a Denver Post analysis of DPS school choice data .
Centennial , Denver Green School and William Roberts placed at least one-third of children who tried to get some of their preschool programs on a waiting list , however , and one popular program at Trevista waitlisted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Green School and William Roberts both said they needed the space for older grades .
Some schools are planning to expand their preschool offerings , however .
McMeen Elementary and Montclair School of Academics and Enrichment each will add one classroom next year .
Bryant Webster Dual Language ECE-8 plans to go even further , by expanding its preschool classes from half-day to full-day .
DPS schools offer more classrooms for 4-year-olds than for younger children .
Schools vary in offering full-day or half-day programs , and some offer both .
Tuition is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from $ 32 a month to $ 950 for others , depending on the family ’ s income , whether they live in Denver and whether they choose a full- or half-day program .

Parents who want to send their kids to preschool in Denver Public Schools may need to take a second look at their options, as eight schools cut classrooms and two eliminated programs for 3-year-olds.
DPS officials said the total number of slots available for preschool will grow compared to last year, however. Next year, there will be about 5,400 slots available in schools and community locations, which is about 400 more than there were in the 2018-2019 school year, the district said.
Next school year, Stedman Elementary and Joe Shoemaker School will no longer offer preschool classes for 3-year-olds. In Stedman’s case, the school decided to use the space for its popular Spanish immersion program for older students, while Shoemaker will use the classrooms for four-year-olds.
Eight other schools said they would cut one early childhood education classroom, though DPS data didn’t specify if each would be a class for 3- or 4-year-olds. Most cited low enrollment in preschool, though two said they needed more space for their older grades.
Schools cutting a classroom are:
Beach Court Elementary
Centennial School
Cheltenham Elementary
Colfax Elementary
Denver Green School Southeast
Place Bridge Academy
Trevista at Horace Mann
William Roberts ECE-8 School
Half of those schools rarely place children on waiting lists for preschool programs, according to a Denver Post analysis of DPS school choice data.
Centennial, Denver Green School and William Roberts placed at least one-third of children who tried to get some of their preschool programs on a waiting list, however, and one popular program at Trevista waitlisted half of children who applied. Denver Green School and William Roberts both said they needed the space for older grades.
Some schools are planning to expand their preschool offerings, however. McMeen Elementary and Montclair School of Academics and Enrichment each will add one classroom next year. Bryant Webster Dual Language ECE-8 plans to go even further, by expanding its preschool classes from half-day to full-day.
Priscilla Hopkins, executive director for early childhood programs at DPS, said the district decides where to offer classrooms based on demand.
“This means that we work with projections and look at current year classrooms to make sure they are being utilized,” she said in a statement. “If there are particular school sites that have open seats, then we make adjustments throughout the district so that we offer more classrooms where there is greater demand and where classrooms would have very few, if any, open seats.”
DPS schools offer more classrooms for 4-year-olds than for younger children. Schools vary in offering full-day or half-day programs, and some offer both.
Tuition is free for low-income families, and ranges from $32 a month to $950 for others, depending on the family’s income, whether they live in Denver and whether they choose a full- or half-day program.