thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Ask Amy: It’s hard to party with “one-party” rule

Dear Amy : I am an intellectual conservative , living in liberal and one-party Berkeley , California .
Time after time at dinner parties ( even my own ) , the guests just assume that I am a liberal like they are .
When I tell them that I ’ m fairly conservative , they just don ’ t get it .
They freely disparage “ right-wing hillbillies ” and say that all conservatives are “ evil people.
” One time I countered , “ Forty percent of the people in this country are not evil .
They are good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from yours.
” The table became silent , they all glared at me , and the dinner party was ruined .
What is one to do ?
Must one just smile faintly and bear it ?
What can one say ?
Dear Frustrated : Whenever I try to tackle a politics-adjacent question , the reader-responses range the gamut from people decrying my conservative hot takes , my liberal views , or my “ both-sides-ism.
” This tells me that people are avoiding nuance , context , or subtext .
My take on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and unfortunate consequence of our president ’ s personal and public comportment is that it seems to have inspired a parallel mindset in the opposition .
I do not lay the blame for the close-minded attitude of many progressives on the current administration ; I simply note the parallels .
Each of us is entirely responsible for our own behavior .
But the stereotyping and overall narrow-minded attitude you describe is something you might want to gently ask these liberal intellectuals to reflect upon .
Practice a question : “ Are you interested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me view current events — and what we are thinking about ?
” Yes , it might be easier for you to simply sit through this sort of group-think , but you should not take the blame for “ ruining ” a gathering simply because you have asked people to be open-minded and rational .
Nor do I think that you ( or anyone ) should feel forced to stay silent when others are being rude , crude , or reactionary .
Surely anyone worthy of being called a “ liberal ” should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mind , and should maintain an attitude of open-minded curiosity about people who think differently than they do .
Dear Amy : I ’ m a media producer with an emphasis on video production .
I mainly work on documentaries , so I usually work with people who don ’ t have on-camera experience .
When I put microphones on people , I try to make small talk about whatever common subjects I can think of ( sports , pets , kids , where they ’ re from , etc. )
.
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when they have to talk on camera and to alleviate some tension regarding me , a stranger touching their body and clothes to properly place the mic and hide the cable .
( I do always say , “ I ’ m putting the mic here , is that OK ?
” ) Recently I put a mic on a very pregnant woman .
I was going to say , “ Congratulations on the pending arrival , I have a daughter myself and it ’ s great… ” Instead , I made a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if I mentioned the pregnancy it would be akin to commenting on her body and I ’ m “ woke ” enough to know that people , especially women , don ’ t like that .
Was I correct in not acknowledging the pregnancy , or would using the pregnancy to relate on a “ I ’ m a parent too ” level be acceptable ?
Trying to make people comfortable and relaxed is my number one priority .
Dear Too Woke : You understand the important role you have in helping to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a nerve-wracking process .
Your sensitivity is commendable .
No , you should not mention a woman ’ s pregnancy as you are helping to affix her mic .
The main reason for this is because a person getting ready to be interviewed on camera should be concentrating on their own preparation .
Pregnancy is a diverting topic to discuss just before being interviewed .
If a woman makes a reference to her own pregnancy , then yes — congratulate and briefly share your positive parenting experience with her , but the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the interview is wrapped .
Dear Amy : “ Just Wondering ” was worried about his girlfriend ’ s habit of texting a ( male ) co-worker after work-hours .
I agree with you that any of us has the right to maintain friendships outside of the love-relationship , but Wondering ’ s girlfriend should show him her texts and reassure him .
Secrecy makes all of this worse , maybe for no reason .

Dear Amy: I am an intellectual conservative, living in liberal and one-party Berkeley, California.
Time after time at dinner parties (even my own), the guests just assume that I am a liberal like they are.
When I tell them that I’m fairly conservative, they just don’t get it. They freely disparage “right-wing hillbillies” and say that all conservatives are “evil people.”
One time I countered, “Forty percent of the people in this country are not evil. They are good people. They just have different values from yours.”
The table became silent, they all glared at me, and the dinner party was ruined.
What is one to do? Must one just smile faintly and bear it? What can one say?
— Frustrated Republican in Berkeley
Dear Frustrated: Whenever I try to tackle a politics-adjacent question, the reader-responses range the gamut from people decrying my conservative hot takes, my liberal views, or my “both-sides-ism.” This tells me that people are avoiding nuance, context, or subtext.
My take on the phenomenon you describe is that one unexpected and unfortunate consequence of our president’s personal and public comportment is that it seems to have inspired a parallel mindset in the opposition. I do not lay the blame for the close-minded attitude of many progressives on the current administration; I simply note the parallels.
Each of us is entirely responsible for our own behavior. But the stereotyping and overall narrow-minded attitude you describe is something you might want to gently ask these liberal intellectuals to reflect upon. Practice a question: “Are you interested in learning more about how conservatives like me view current events — and what we are thinking about?”
Yes, it might be easier for you to simply sit through this sort of group-think, but you should not take the blame for “ruining” a gathering simply because you have asked people to be open-minded and rational. Nor do I think that you (or anyone) should feel forced to stay silent when others are being rude, crude, or reactionary.
Surely anyone worthy of being called a “liberal” should defend your right to speak your own mind, and should maintain an attitude of open-minded curiosity about people who think differently than they do.
Dear Amy: I’m a media producer with an emphasis on video production. I mainly work on documentaries, so I usually work with people who don’t have on-camera experience.
When I put microphones on people, I try to make small talk about whatever common subjects I can think of (sports, pets, kids, where they’re from, etc.). The goal is to loosen them up for when they have to talk on camera and to alleviate some tension regarding me, a stranger touching their body and clothes to properly place the mic and hide the cable. (I do always say, “I’m putting the mic here, is that OK?”)
Recently I put a mic on a very pregnant woman. I was going to say, “Congratulations on the pending arrival, I have a daughter myself and it’s great…”
Instead, I made a comment about the weather because I thought if I mentioned the pregnancy it would be akin to commenting on her body and I’m “woke” enough to know that people, especially women, don’t like that.
Was I correct in not acknowledging the pregnancy, or would using the pregnancy to relate on a “I’m a parent too” level be acceptable? Trying to make people comfortable and relaxed is my number one priority.
— Too Woke in Chicago?
Dear Too Woke: You understand the important role you have in helping to calm jittery nerves during what can be a nerve-wracking process. Your sensitivity is commendable.
No, you should not mention a woman’s pregnancy as you are helping to affix her mic. The main reason for this is because a person getting ready to be interviewed on camera should be concentrating on their own preparation. Pregnancy is a diverting topic to discuss just before being interviewed.
If a woman makes a reference to her own pregnancy, then yes — congratulate and briefly share your positive parenting experience with her, but the time for more leisurely chit chat is after the interview is wrapped.
Dear Amy: “Just Wondering” was worried about his girlfriend’s habit of texting a (male) co-worker after work-hours. I agree with you that any of us has the right to maintain friendships outside of the love-relationship, but Wondering’s girlfriend should show him her texts and reassure him. Secrecy makes all of this worse, maybe for no reason.
— Been There
Dear Been There: I agree.
(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Denver’s population growth leads Colorado as urban areas outpace rural

Denver added more people than any other county in Colorado last year , according to new census estimates that show the state ’ s urban-rural population gap continues to widen .
The population for the city and county of Denver was 727,211 on July 1 , the date used as the peg for annual estimates the U.S. Census Bureau is releasing Thursday .
Denver , the state ’ s most populous county , grew by nearly 11,000 people , or 1.5 % , compared to mid-2018 .
That rate was down just slightly from Denver ’ s 1.6 % growth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s boom has tempered considerably from earlier in the decade .
Since 2010 , the city ’ s population has grown by a cumulative 20.5 % , adding more than 127,000 people .
Though some smaller counties grew faster last year in percentage terms , the latest estimates show the state capital led in numerical growth for the first time in four years , according to a Denver Post data analysis .
Denver finally outpaced El Paso County , the state ’ s second-largest county and home to Colorado Springs .
El @ @ @ @ @ @ @ July 1 , an increase of 8,314 people , or 1.2 % .
El Paso ’ s numerical growth fell to No .
3 behind Weld County — which is home to Greeley and grew by 9,677 in the 2019 estimates — and was ahead of Douglas County ( +8,165 ) and Larimer County ( +6,239 ) .
All five of those top-growing counties are along the Front Range urban corridor that has fueled the widening population gap in Colorado , which has nearly 5.8 million residents , even as the state ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact , the Greeley metropolitan statistical area , which is contiguous with Weld County , notched growth rates that ranked third-highest in the nation among metro areas last year ( 3.1 % ) and sixth-highest for growth over the last decade ( 28.3 % ) .
As of mid-2019 , about 324,500 people lived in the gas- and oil-rich area .
The final county census estimates released before the completion of the 2020 census show that in the last decade , Colorado ’ s urban counties have grown much faster than its rural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The state has 15 counties with 50,000 or more residents .
Since 2010 , the combined population of those counties has increased by nearly 16 % , to 5.1 million in the new estimates .
Meanwhile , in the 49 Colorado counties with populations under 50,000 , the total number of residents has grown by just 4.4 % .
Nearly 631,000 people lived in those rural counties in mid-2019 .
Among the 26 smallest counties — those with fewer than 10,000 residents a decade ago — 11 have lost population .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since 2010 in each case , have occurred in Bent and Kit Carson counties on the Eastern Plains .
But Colorado ’ s small counties actually fared a little better than small counties across the country .
“ One interesting trend we have seen this decade is widespread population decline among smaller counties , while larger counties tended to have population growth , ” said Christine Hartley , a demographer at the Census Bureau , in a news release .
“ Three out of four counties with a population of less than 10,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019.
” In terms of percentage growth , Lake County in the mountains led the state in the new estimates , growing by 3.6 % to 8,127 residents .
Second was Weld County ( 3.1 % ) and third was rural Custer County , located southwest of Pueblo , which grew by 2.7 % to about 5,100 people .
In the metro area , Denver ’ s growth rate was outpaced by Douglas County ( 2.4 % ) and the city and county of Broomfield ( 1.7 % ) .
As of July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan statistical area was 2.97 million , up 1.2 % in the prior year .
It is still the 19th largest metro area in the nation , as defined by the Census Bureau , but that leaves out Boulder County while including some rural areas .
The more commonly known seven-county metro area — Adams , Arapahoe , Boulder , Broomfield , Denver , Douglas and Jefferson counties — had an estimated population of 3.23 million , up 1.1 % in the prior year .

Denver added more people than any other county in Colorado last year, according to new census estimates that show the state’s urban-rural population gap continues to widen.
The population for the city and county of Denver was 727,211 on July 1, the date used as the peg for annual estimates the U.S. Census Bureau is releasing Thursday. Denver, the state’s most populous county, grew by nearly 11,000 people, or 1.5%, compared to mid-2018.
That rate was down just slightly from Denver’s 1.6% growth the year prior — and the city’s boom has tempered considerably from earlier in the decade. Since 2010, the city’s population has grown by a cumulative 21%, adding more than 127,000 people.
Though some smaller counties grew faster last year in percentage terms, the latest estimates show the state capital led in numerical growth for the first time in four years, according to a Denver Post data analysis. Denver finally outpaced El Paso County, the state’s second-largest county and home to Colorado Springs. El Paso had an estimated 720,403 residents on July 1, an increase of 8,314 people, or 1.2%.
El Paso’s numerical growth fell to No. 3 behind Weld County — which is home to Greeley and grew by 9,677 in the 2019 estimates — and was ahead of Douglas County (+8,165) and Larimer County (+6,239).
All five of those top-growing counties are along the Front Range urban corridor that has fueled the widening population gap in Colorado, which has nearly 5.8 million residents, even as the state’s overall growth has slowed.
In fact, the Greeley metropolitan statistical area, which is contiguous with Weld County, notched growth rates that ranked third-highest in the nation among metro areas last year (3.1%) and sixth-highest for growth over the last decade (28.3%). As of mid-2019, about 324,500 people lived in the gas- and oil-rich area.
Urban counties outpace rural counties
The final county census estimates released before the completion of the 2020 census show that in the last decade, Colorado’s urban counties have grown much faster than its rural ones, a reflection of national trends.
The state has 15 counties with 50,000 or more residents. Since 2010, the combined population of those counties has increased by nearly 16%, to 5.1 million in the new estimates. Meanwhile, in the 49 Colorado counties with populations under 50,000, the total number of residents has grown by just 4.4%. Nearly 631,000 people lived in those rural counties in mid-2019.
Among the 26 smallest counties — those with fewer than 10,000 residents a decade ago — 11 have lost population. The steepest cumulative declines, exceeding 14% since 2010 in each case, have occurred in Bent and Kit Carson counties on the Eastern Plains.
But Colorado’s small counties actually fared a little better than small counties across the country.
“One interesting trend we have seen this decade is widespread population decline among smaller counties, while larger counties tended to have population growth,” said Christine Hartley, a demographer at the Census Bureau, in a news release. “Three out of four counties with a population of less than 10,000 in 2010 had even smaller populations in 2019.”
Fastest-growing counties
In terms of percentage growth, Lake County in the mountains led the state in the new estimates, growing by 3.6% to 8,127 residents. Second was Weld County (3.1%) and third was rural Custer County, located southwest of Pueblo, which grew by 2.7% to about 5,100 people.
In the metro area, Denver’s growth rate was outpaced by Douglas County (2.4%) and the city and county of Broomfield (1.7%).
Metro area population
As of July 1, the estimated population of the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metropolitan statistical area was 2.97 million, up 1.2% in the prior year. It is still the 19th largest metro area in the nation, as defined by the Census Bureau, but that leaves out Boulder County while including some rural areas.
The more commonly known seven-county metro area — Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson counties — had an estimated population of 3.23 million, up 1.1% in the prior year.


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Colorado’s Gardner and Bennet vote yes as Senate passes massive economic stimulus

The U.S. Senate , with the approval of Colorado ’ s senators , passed the largest economic stimulus package in American history late Wednesday night , an approximately $ 2 trillion boost to workers , businesses , corporations and the health care system .
The legislation passed by a vote of 96-0 , with aye votes from Sen. Cory Gardner , R-Yuma , and Sen. Michael Bennet , a Denver Democrat .
Both Colorado senators made clear earlier in the day that they supported the massive agreement .
“ It needs to pass now .
It should have passed days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speech on the Senate floor , after emerging from self-quarantine because he came in contact with a coronavirus patient .
“ I don ’ t think the American people give a hoot whether this idea was a Republican idea or this idea was a Democrat idea.
” The senator , who faces re-election in November , made repeated pleas for unity during his speech and predicted there will be further legislation to deal with the dire economic fallout from coronavirus and the business closures it has caused .
“ This country ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve been through the Great Recession .
We will make it through the Great Infection .
That ’ s what we do as a country .
That ’ s who we are as a people , ” Gardner said .
Before the vote , Gardner and Bennet voted against an amendment from Sen. Ben Sasse , R-Neb.
, to cap unemployment benefits at a worker ’ s full salary .
In remarks Wednesday , Bennet criticized Senate Republicans for not including a $ 600-per-week unemployment insurance increase , which was later added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He also credited Democrats with adding money for the health care system , middle-class Americans and lower-class Americans .
“ States and local governments not only have to fight this health crisis , they have to pay teachers , police and firefighters , even as their tax revenues collapse , ” Bennet said in a lengthy statement .
“ The initial bill included nothing to help them confront these yawning budget caps .
It was ridiculous.
” “ Too many people played politics and peddled misinformation this week , ” Bennet added .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ focused on supercharging our health care response , while providing much-needed support to workers , families and businesses.
” The bill now goes to the House , where it ’ s expected to pass Friday .
Rep. Ken Buck , a Windsor Republican who has opposed coronavirus response bills this month , criticized the latest bill Wednesday and signaled he will vote against it .
“ This ‘ coronavirus response ’ package has special carve-outs of $ 75 million for public broadcasting and $ 50 million for museums and libraries , ” Buck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said on Twitter .
“ That ’ s $ 125 million for pet projects instead of for struggling families and businesses .
Democrats are again exploiting a crisis to fund their liberal wish list .
”

The U.S. Senate, with the approval of Colorado’s senators, passed the largest economic stimulus package in American history late Wednesday night, an approximately $2 trillion boost to workers, businesses, corporations and the health care system.
The legislation passed by a vote of 96-0, with aye votes from Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Yuma, and Sen. Michael Bennet, a Denver Democrat. Both Colorado senators made clear earlier in the day that they supported the massive agreement.
“It needs to pass now. It should have passed days ago,” Gardner said in a speech on the Senate floor, after emerging from self-quarantine because he came in contact with a coronavirus patient. “I don’t think the American people give a hoot whether this idea was a Republican idea or this idea was a Democrat idea.”
The senator, who faces re-election in November, made repeated pleas for unity during his speech and predicted there will be further legislation to deal with the dire economic fallout from coronavirus and the business closures it has caused.
“This country’s been through the Great Depression. We’ve been through the Great Recession. We will make it through the Great Infection. That’s what we do as a country. That’s who we are as a people,” Gardner said.
Before the vote, Gardner and Bennet voted against an amendment from Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., to cap unemployment benefits at a worker’s full salary.
In remarks Wednesday, Bennet criticized Senate Republicans for not including a $600-per-week unemployment insurance increase, which was later added at the request of Senate Democrats. He also credited Democrats with adding money for the health care system, middle-class Americans and lower-class Americans.
“States and local governments not only have to fight this health crisis, they have to pay teachers, police and firefighters, even as their tax revenues collapse,” Bennet said in a lengthy statement. “The initial bill included nothing to help them confront these yawning budget caps. It was ridiculous.”
“Too many people played politics and peddled misinformation this week,” Bennet added. “We fought to keep this plan focused on supercharging our health care response, while providing much-needed support to workers, families and businesses.”
The bill now goes to the House, where it’s expected to pass Friday. Rep. Ken Buck, a Windsor Republican who has opposed coronavirus response bills this month, criticized the latest bill Wednesday and signaled he will vote against it.
“This ‘coronavirus response’ package has special carve-outs of $75 million for public broadcasting and $50 million for museums and libraries,” Buck, who leads the Colorado Republican Party, said on Twitter. “That’s $125 million for pet projects instead of for struggling families and businesses. Democrats are again exploiting a crisis to fund their liberal wish list.”


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--FAQ about Colorado’s stay-at-home order

FAQ about Colorado’s stay-at-home order

On Wednesday , Governor Polis issued Executive Order D2020-017 ordering Coloradans to stay at home due to the presence of COVID-19 .
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment ’ s issued a public health order defining critical emergency personnel , infrastructure , government functions , and other activities that are exempt from the directives in this executive order .
The governor ’ s office has released the following FAQ .
When does the order take effect ?
The order will take effect Thursday , March 26 at 6:00 a.m. and is set to last through Saturday , April 11 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further Executive Order .
Why is the order necessary ?
On March 5 , 2020 , CDPHE ’ s public health laboratory confirmed the first presumptive positive COVID-19 test result in Colorado .
Since then , the number of confirmed cases has continued to climb .
We all need to take these precautions for the preservation of public health and safety throughout the entire State and to ensure our healthcare delivery system can serve those who are sick .
The Polis administration , along with other state , local , and federal authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions to mitigate the effects of the pandemic , prevent further spread , and protect against overwhelming our health care resources .
The economic impacts of COVID-19 are significant , and threaten to undermine the economic stability of many Coloradans and local businesses .
The period of the economic disruption must be minimized by minimizing the spread of the virus .
We must take action to shore up economic security , employment , community cohesion , and community recovery .
Where does the “ Stay at Home ” order apply ?
The Governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state except areas in which a county health authority obtains approval from CDPHE to modify the order .
Unless you work for a critical business or are doing an essential activity , you should stay home .
Work from home is permitted and encouraged where possible .
Although this order does not apply to critical business , social distancing will be mandated for those businesses that remain open .
What is the difference between the stay at home order and social distancing ?
Stay at Home makes it very clear that Coloradans should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anybody outside their household and minimize contact in public places that could be contaminated with the COVID-19 virus .
Social distancing is an important first step in preventing the spread of a disease like COVID-19 that allows people to go about their daily activities while taking extra health and safety precautions .
Is this mandatory or just guidance ?
This order is mandatory .
How will this order be enforced ?
This order is an executive order , which means it ’ s the law of Colorado .
It ’ s illegal to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Guard be enforcing this order ?
No .
The Colorado National Guard will be supporting logistics , transportation , and medical response efforts .
The Guard will not be enforcing this order .
Residents who suspect that someone is violating the order should first contact their local public health agency to report any concerns .
Residents may also file a report with the Attorney General ’ s Office at covid19 @ coag.gov if local law enforcement or a local public health agency is unresponsive .
How does this impact local municipalities that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at home orders ?
Any local jurisdiction can put in requirements that are more restrictive and anything that was in place stays in place .
Will grocery stores be open ?
Yes , essential services will still be operational including , but not limited to : grocery stores , gas stations , pharmacies , police stations , fire stations , hospitals , clinics and healthcare operations , garbage/sanitation , public transportation and public benefits hotlines ( i.e .
SNAP , Medicaid ) .
Can I order food/groceries ?
Yes , grocery delivery will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drive through , and take-out options .
Will liquor and cannabis stores be open ?
Yes .
Items will on be for sale only for off-site consumption and while purchasing social distancing should be practiced .
How can I get medical care if I need it ?
If you are feeling sick , call your doctor , a nurse hotline , any telehealth hotline set up specifically for COVID-19 ( check with your insurance company ) or an urgent care center .
If you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the guidelines provided by your physician .
Do not go to an emergency room unless necessary .
Nonessential medical care like eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed .
When possible , healthcare visits should be done remotely .
Contact your healthcare provider to see what tele-health services they provide .
Can I get a prescription filled or other healthcare needs ?
Yes .
Pharmacies and other medical services will remain open .
You should request for your prescriptions to be delivered to your home if that is possible .
Will public transportation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ridesharing should be used for essential travel only .
When possible , walk or drive yourself .
Will roads in Colorado be closed ?
No , the roads will not be closed in Colorado .
You should only travel if it is essential to your work or health .
Can I take a flight out of state ?
Planes and any other form of travel should only be used if absolutely necessary .
What if my home is not a safe environment ?
If it is not safe for you to remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find another safe place to stay during this order .
Please reach out so we can help .
You may call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or contact your local law enforcement .
What about homeless people who can ’ t stay at home ?
The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Coloradans , regardless of where they live .
State agencies are partnering with community organizations to provide funding and resources to ensure our homeless population has safe shelter .
The Department of Local Affairs is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Weather Shelters in the Balance of State Continuum of Care with ; Contact info , Locations , Bed counts , Closing Dates .
In addition DOLA is working with state and local partners who provide services to our unhoused Coloradans through a statewide homeless taskforce .
The first meeting is Monday , March 23 , 2020 1-2pm .
HUD has also developed an Infectious Disease Toolkit for Continuums of Care ( CoC ) to prepare for and manage the spread of infectious disease in shelters .
Can I leave home to take care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or friend ?
Yes .
Please be sure to practice social distancing and wash your hands frequently .
Elderly people and people with suppressed immune systems are at heightened risk for contracting COVID-19 .
Does the Stay order mean I can ’ t take my kids to the park ?
State parks will be open .
Families will still be able to go outside , including to local parks and outdoor spaces that remain open , and take a walk , run , or bike ride but should continue to practice social distancing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people .
Municipalities are encouraged to extend hours of parks to encourage spacing , and to close parks in which visitors are seen to be routinely violating spacing guidelines .
Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing transmission .
Is child care open ?
Licensed child care remains open under specific guidance from public health .
We are working to ensure all essential workers have access to childcare services so are licensing new centers and those that may have closed , on an emergency basis , to ensure there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential workers .
For urgent child care needs , contact 2-1-1 .
Can I pick up meals being provided by my child ’ s school ?
Yes .
Schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pick-up and take-home basis .
What about my pet ?
Pet supply stores and veterinary services will remain open .
You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it .
Be sure to practice social distancing while out on walks , maintaining at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pets .
What is a Critical Business or Operation Under the Order ?
Healthcare Operations , Including : ● hospitals , clinics , and walk-in health facilities .
● medical and dental care , including ambulatory providers .
● research and laboratory services .
● medical wholesale and distribution .
● home health care companies , workers and aides .
● pharmacies .
● pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies .
● behavioral health care providers .
● veterinary care and livestock services .
● nursing homes , residential health care , or congregate care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and providers , including durable medical equipment technicians and suppliers .
● This does NOT include health clubs as defined in C.R.S .
§ 6-1-102 ( 4.6 ) , fitness and exercise gyms , and similar facilities .
All medical , dental and veterinary care provided pursuant to this Order must comply with the directives set fort Critical Infrastructure , Including : ● utilities including power generation , fuel supply and transmission .
● oil and gas production field operations .
● public water and wastewater .
● telecommunications and data centers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ authorized businesses .
● hotels , and places of accommodation .
● businesses and organizations that provide food , shelter , social services , and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged , persons with access and functional needs , or otherwise needy individuals .
● food and plant cultivation , including farming crops , livestock , food processing and manufacturing , animal feed and feed products , rendering , commodity sales , and any other work critical to the operation of any component of the food supply chain .
Critical critical Manufacturing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ manufacturing agents , including all foods and beverages .
● chemicals .
● medical equipment supplies or instruments .
● pharmaceuticals .
● sanitary products .
● telecommunications .
● microelectronics/semiconductor .
● agriculture/farms .
● household paper products .
● any business that produces products critical or incidental to the processing , functioning , development , manufacture , or delivery of any of the categories of products included in this part Critical critical Retail , Including : ● grocery stores including all food and beverage stores .
● farm and produce stands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
● restaurants/bars ( for take-out/delivery only as defined in Executive Order ____ ● marijuana dispensary .
● firearms stores .
● hardware , farm supply , and building material stores .
● establishments engaged in the retail sale of food and any other household consumer products ( such as cleaning and personal care products ) .
● Pet stores and gun stores .
● Liquor and marijuana .
Critical Services , Including : ● trash and recycling collection , processing and disposal .
● mail and shipping services , and locations that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drycleaning services .
● building cleaning and maintenance .
● child care services ( following the requirements outlined in exemptions below ) .
● auto supply and repair ( including retail dealerships that include repair and maintenance , provided that retail activity ceases ) .
● warehouse/distribution and fulfillment .
● funeral homes , crematoriums , and cemeteries .
● in-person pastoral services for individuals who are in crisis or in need of end of life services provided social distancing is observed to the greatest extent possible .
● storage for critical businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , zoological facilities , animal sanctuaries , and other related facilities .
Financial Institutions , Including : ● Banks and credit institutions .
● Insurance , payroll , and accounting services .
● services related to financial markets .
Join our Facebook group for the latest updates on coronavirus in Colorado .
Providers of Basic Necessities to Economically Disadvantaged Populations , Including : ● homeless shelters and congregate care facilities .
● food banks .
● human services providers whose function includes the direct care of patients in state-licensed or funded voluntary programs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and oversight of individuals both in the community and in state-licensed residential facilities ; those operating community shelters and other critical human services agencies providing direct care or support .
Construction , Including : ● especially for housing and housing for low-income and vulnerable people .
● skilled trades such as electricians , plumbers .
● other related firms and professionals for who provide services necessary to maintain the safety , sanitation , and critical operation of residences .
Critical Services Necessary to Maintain the Safety , Sanitation and critical Operations of Residences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ● defense and security-related operations supporting the State of Colorado , local government , the U.S. Government or a contractor to either or all .
● law enforcement .
● fire prevention and response .
● building code enforcement .
● security .
● emergency management and response .
● building cleaners or janitors .
● general maintenance whether employed by the entity directly or a vendor .
● automotive repair .
● Disinfection .
● Snow removal .
Vendors that Provide Critical Services or Products , Including Logistics and Technology Support , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
● technology support for online and telephone services .
● child care programs and services .
● government owned or leased buildings .
● critical government services .

On Wednesday, Governor Polis issued Executive Order D2020-017 ordering Coloradans to stay at home due to the presence of COVID-19. Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s issued a public health order defining critical emergency personnel, infrastructure, government functions, and other activities that are exempt from the directives in this executive order.
The governor’s office has released the following FAQ. It has been modified to reflect the extension.
When does the order take effect?
The order will take effect Thursday, March 26 at 6 a.m. and was originally set to last through April 11, but was extended through April 26.
Why is the order necessary?
On March 5, 2020, CDPHE’s public health laboratory confirmed the first presumptive positive COVID-19 test result in Colorado. Since then, the number of confirmed cases has continued to climb. We all need to take these precautions for the preservation of public health and safety throughout the entire State and to ensure our healthcare delivery system can serve those who are sick. The Polis administration, along with other state, local, and federal authorities, has taken a wide array of actions to mitigate the effects of the pandemic, prevent further spread, and protect against overwhelming our health care resources. The economic impacts of COVID-19 are significant, and threaten to undermine the economic stability of many Coloradans and local businesses. The period of the economic disruption must be minimized by minimizing the spread of the virus. We must take action to shore up economic security, employment, community cohesion, and community recovery.
Where does the “Stay at Home” order apply?
The Governor’s executive order includes the entire state except areas in which a county health authority obtains approval from CDPHE to modify the order. Unless you work for a critical business or are doing an essential activity, you should stay home. Work from home is permitted and encouraged where possible. Although this order does not apply to critical business, social distancing will be mandated for those businesses that remain open.
What is the difference between the stay at home order and social distancing?
Stay at Home makes it very clear that Coloradans should take extreme steps to avoid contact with anybody outside their household and minimize contact in public places that could be contaminated with the COVID-19 virus. Social distancing is an important first step in preventing the spread of a disease like COVID-19 that allows people to go about their daily activities while taking extra health and safety precautions.
Is this mandatory or just guidance?
This order is mandatory.
How will this order be enforced?
This order is an executive order, which means it’s the law of Colorado. It’s illegal to break the law.
Will the Colorado National Guard be enforcing this order?
No. The Colorado National Guard will be supporting logistics, transportation, and medical response efforts. The Guard will not be enforcing this order. Residents who suspect that someone is violating the order should first contact their local public health agency to report any concerns. Residents may also file a report with the Attorney General’s Office at covid19@coag.gov if local law enforcement or a local public health agency is unresponsive.
How does this impact local municipalities that have already taken steps to enact stay at home orders?
Any local jurisdiction can put in requirements that are more restrictive and anything that was in place stays in place.
Will grocery stores be open?
Yes, essential services will still be operational including, but not limited to: grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, police stations, fire stations, hospitals, clinics and healthcare operations, garbage/sanitation, public transportation and public benefits hotlines (i.e. SNAP, Medicaid).
Can I order food/groceries?
Yes, grocery delivery will be available as well as meal-delivery, drive through, and take-out options.
Will liquor and cannabis stores be open?
Yes. Items will on be for sale only for off-site consumption and while purchasing social distancing should be practiced.
How can I get medical care if I need it?
If you are feeling sick, call your doctor, a nurse hotline, any telehealth hotline set up specifically for COVID-19 (check with your insurance company) or an urgent care center. If you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation, you should stay at home and follow the guidelines provided by your physician. Do not go to an emergency room unless necessary. Nonessential medical care like eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed. When possible, healthcare visits should be done remotely. Contact your healthcare provider to see what tele-health services they provide.
Can I get a prescription filled or other healthcare needs?
Yes. Pharmacies and other medical services will remain open. You should request for your prescriptions to be delivered to your home if that is possible.
Will public transportation and ridesharing be available?
Public transportation and ridesharing should be used for essential travel only. When possible, walk or drive yourself.
Will roads in Colorado be closed?
No, the roads will not be closed in Colorado. You should only travel if it is essential to your work or health.
Can I take a flight out of state?
Planes and any other form of travel should only be used if absolutely necessary.
What if my home is not a safe environment?
If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and urged to find another safe place to stay during this order. Please reach out so we can help. You may call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or contact your local law enforcement.
What about homeless people who can’t stay at home?
The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Coloradans, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to provide funding and resources to ensure our homeless population has safe shelter. The Department of Local Affairs is working on getting a list of Cold Weather Shelters in the Balance of State Continuum of Care with; Contact info, Locations, Bed counts, Closing Dates. In addition DOLA is working with state and local partners who provide services to our unhoused Coloradans through a statewide homeless taskforce. The first meeting is Monday, March 23, 2020 1-2pm. HUD has also developed an Infectious Disease Toolkit for Continuums of Care (CoC) to prepare for and manage the spread of infectious disease in shelters.
Can I leave home to take care of an elderly or sick family member or friend?
Yes. Please be sure to practice social distancing and wash your hands frequently. Elderly people and people with suppressed immune systems are at heightened risk for contracting COVID-19.
Does the Stay order mean I can’t take my kids to the park?
State parks will be open. Families will still be able to go outside, including to local parks and outdoor spaces that remain open, and take a walk, run, or bike ride but should continue to practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from other people. Municipalities are encouraged to extend hours of parks to encourage spacing, and to close parks in which visitors are seen to be routinely violating spacing guidelines. Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing transmission.
Is child care open?
Licensed child care remains open under specific guidance from public health. We are working to ensure all essential workers have access to childcare services so are licensing new centers and those that may have closed, on an emergency basis, to ensure there are enough spots for the children of essential workers. For urgent child care needs, contact 2-1-1.
Can I pick up meals being provided by my child’s school?
Yes. Schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pick-up and take-home basis.
What about my pet?
Pet supply stores and veterinary services will remain open. You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. Be sure to practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.
What is a Critical Business or Operation Under the Order?
Healthcare Operations, Including:
● hospitals, clinics, and walk-in health facilities.
● medical and dental care, including ambulatory providers.
● research and laboratory services.
● medical wholesale and distribution.
● home health care companies, workers and aides.
● pharmacies.
● pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
● behavioral health care providers.
● veterinary care and livestock services.
● nursing homes, residential health care, or congregate care facilities
● medical supplies and equipment manufacturers and providers, including durable medical equipment technicians and suppliers.
● This does NOT include health clubs as defined in C.R.S. § 6-1-102(4.6), fitness and exercise gyms, and similar facilities.
All medical, dental and veterinary care provided pursuant to this Order must comply with the directives set forth in Executive Order D 2020 009.
Critical Infrastructure, Including:
● utilities including power generation, fuel supply and transmission.
● oil and gas production field operations.
● public water and wastewater.
● telecommunications and data centers.
● transportation and infrastructure necessary to support authorized businesses.
● hotels, and places of accommodation.
● businesses and organizations that provide food, shelter, social services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged, persons with access and functional needs, or otherwise needy individuals.
● food and plant cultivation, including farming crops, livestock, food processing and manufacturing, animal feed and feed products, rendering, commodity sales, and any other work critical to the operation of any component of the food supply chain.
Critical critical Manufacturing, Including:
● food processing, manufacturing agents, including all foods and beverages.
● chemicals.
● medical equipment supplies or instruments.
● pharmaceuticals.
● sanitary products.
● telecommunications.
● microelectronics/semiconductor.
● agriculture/farms.
● household paper products.
● any business that produces products critical or incidental to the processing, functioning, development, manufacture, or delivery of any of the categories of products included in this part
Critical critical Retail, Including:
● grocery stores including all food and beverage stores.
● farm and produce stands.
● gas stations and convenience stores.
● restaurants/bars (for take-out/delivery only as defined in Executive Order ____
● marijuana dispensary.
● firearms stores.
● hardware, farm supply, and building material stores.
● establishments engaged in the retail sale of food and any other household consumer products (such as cleaning and personal care products).
● Pet stores and gun stores.
● Liquor and marijuana.
Critical Services, Including:
● trash and recycling collection, processing and disposal.
● mail and shipping services, and locations that offer PO boxes.
● laundromats and drycleaning services.
● building cleaning and maintenance.
● child care services (following the requirements outlined in exemptions below).
● auto supply and repair (including retail dealerships that include repair and maintenance, provided that retail activity ceases).
● warehouse/distribution and fulfillment.
● funeral homes, crematoriums, and cemeteries.
● in-person pastoral services for individuals who are in crisis or in need of end of life services provided social distancing is observed to the greatest extent possible.
● storage for critical businesses.
● animal shelters, animal rescues, zoological facilities, animal sanctuaries, and other related facilities.
News Media
● newspapers.
● television.
● radio.
● other media services.
Financial Institutions, Including:
● Banks and credit institutions.
● Insurance, payroll, and accounting services.
● services related to financial markets.
Join our Facebook group for the latest updates on coronavirus in Colorado.
Providers of Basic Necessities to Economically Disadvantaged Populations, Including:
● homeless shelters and congregate care facilities.
● food banks.
● human services providers whose function includes the direct care of patients in state-licensed or funded voluntary programs; the care, protection, custody and oversight of individuals both in the community and in state-licensed residential facilities; those operating community shelters and other critical human services agencies providing direct care or support.
Construction, Including:
● especially for housing and housing for low-income and vulnerable people.
● skilled trades such as electricians, plumbers.
● other related firms and professionals for who provide services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and critical operation of residences.
Critical Services Necessary to Maintain the Safety, Sanitation and critical Operations of Residences or Other critical Businesses, Including:
● defense and security-related operations supporting the State of Colorado, local government, the U.S. Government or a contractor to either or all.
● law enforcement.
● fire prevention and response.
● building code enforcement.
● security.
● emergency management and response.
● building cleaners or janitors.
● general maintenance whether employed by the entity directly or a vendor.
● automotive repair.
● Disinfection.
● Snow removal.
Vendors that Provide Critical Services or Products, Including Logistics and Technology Support, Child Care and Services:
● logistics.
● technology support for online and telephone services.
● child care programs and services.
● government owned or leased buildings.
● critical government services.
For more information visit colorado.gov.


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Read the full stay-at-home order from Colorado Gov. Jared Polis

After initially resisting such a sweeping mandate , Gov .
Jared Polis on Wednesday ordered the majority of Colorado ’ @ @ @ @ @ stay home in the state government ’ s most forceful attempt yet to counter the @ @ @ @ @ .
The order states : I direct all Coloradans to stay at home , subject @ @ @ @ @ obtaining food and other household necessities , going to and from work at critical businesses @ @ @ @ @ caring for dependents or pets , or caring for a vulnerable person in another location @ @ @ @ @ below , and the fully story here or visit our FAQ page .

After initially resisting such a sweeping mandate, Gov. Jared Polis on Wednesday ordered the majority of Colorado’s 5.8 million residents to stay home in the state government’s most forceful attempt yet to counter the spread of the novel coronavirus.
The order states: I direct all Coloradans to stay at home, subject to limited exceptions such as obtaining food and other household necessities, going to and from work at critical businesses, seeking medical care, caring for dependents or pets, or caring for a vulnerable person in another location.
Read the full document below, and the fully story here or visit our FAQ page.


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Who’s the greatest Colorado athlete of all-time? Vote in our championship bracket.

The sports world has been turned upside down as professional , collegiate and prep leagues across the globe have been @ @ @ @ @ the spread of the coronavirus .
One of the earliest shocks to the system of @ @ @ @ @ NCAA made the decision to cancel all postseason games and all of March Madness .
@ @ @ @ @ all sports , fans are eager to get back to having some normal in their @ @ @ @ @ the enjoyment of filling out a March Madness bracket and having a dog in the @ @ @ @ @ That ’ s why here at The Denver Post we created our own Colorado-inspired bracket @ @ @ @ @ state ’ s greatest athlete of all time .
The 64-athlete bracket is filled with @ @ @ @ @ of sports , spanning from high school all the way to the pros .
Make @ @ @ @ @ family and friends .
The first round of voting ends at noon , Wednesday , @ @ @

The sports world has been turned upside down as professional, collegiate and prep leagues across the globe have been put on hold due to the spread of the coronavirus.
One of the earliest shocks to the system of sports fans was when the NCAA made the decision to cancel all postseason games and all of March Madness.
And with the postponements of all sports, fans are eager to get back to having some normal in their lives. With normal comes the enjoyment of filling out a March Madness bracket and having a dog in the fight to cheer for.
That’s why here at The Denver Post we created our own Colorado-inspired bracket to see who is the state’s greatest athlete of all time. The 64-athlete bracket is filled with stars from across all forms of sports, spanning from high school all the way to the pros. Make sure to share with your family and friends.
The first round of voting ended at noon on April 1. Here are the results:
Under the Sun quadrant
First-round results:
1. Nolan Arenado (93.65%) d. 16. Taylor Phinney (6.35%)
2. Larry Walker (82.12%) d. 15. Hale Irwin (17.88%)
3. Goose Gossage (89.29%) d. 14. Danny Jackson (10.71%)
4. Roy Halladay (89.23%) d. 13. John Stearns (10.77%)
5. Todd Helton (85.60%) d. 12. Emma Coburn (14.40%)
6. Andres Galarraga (50.49%) d. 11. Carlos Gonzalez (49.51%)
7. Trevor Story (72.64%) d. 10. Lindsey Horan (27.36%)
8. Troy Tulowitzki (68.68%) d. 9. Mallory Pugh (31.32%)
Gridiron quadrant
First-round results:
1. John Elway (91.90%) d. 16. Rashaan Salaam (8.10%)
2. Peyton Manning (93.35%) d. 15. Darnell McDonald (6.65%)
3. Champ Bailey (73.05%) d. 14. Dave Logan (26.95%)
4. Floyd Little (77.13%) d. 13. Tim Tebow (22.87%)
12. Christian McCaffrey (81.56%) d. 5. Dutch Clark (18.44%)
11. Shannon Sharpe (92.66%) d. 6. Jack Christiansen (7.34%)
7. Terrell Davis (78.28%) d. 10. Byron White (21.72%)
8. Von Miller (58.94%) d. 9. Steve Atwater (41.06%)
Water and Ice quadrant
First round results:
1. Peter Forsberg (97.80%) d. 16. Jaccob Slavin (2.20%)
2. Patrick Roy (94.51%) d. 15. Mikko Rantanen (5.49%)
3. Joe Sakic (94.52%) d. 14. Adam Foote (5.48%)
4. Missy Franklin (72.12%) d. 13. Milan Hejduk (27.88%)
5. Lindsey Vonn (84.09%) d. 12. Rob Blake (15.91%)
6. Mikaela Shiffrin (73.23%) d. 11. Jeremy Bloom (26.77%)
10. Paul Stastny (77.35%) d. 7. Eddie Eagan (22.65%)
9. Nathan MacKinnon (51.64%) d. 8. Amy Van Dyken (48.36%)
In the Arena quadrant
First-round results:


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Mesa Verde is Colorado’s second national park to close amid coronavirus fears

Mesa Verde National Park has become the second national park in the state to close in an effort to stop @ @ @ @ @ in Colorado .
The park ’ s closure , which went into effect at sunset @ @ @ @ @ hours after Gov .
Jared Polis issued a statewide stay-at-home order for Colorado ’ s @ @ @ @ @ stuck at home wishing to take advantage of the many digital tools available to explore @ @ @ @ @ including their mobile app , podcasts and videos , can do so on the park @ @ @ @ @ Verde ’ s closure comes just five days after Rocky Mountain National Park officials said @ @ @ @ @ gates to further prevent the spread of COVID-19 .
Read more on our partner site @ @ @ @ @ weekly newsletter , The Adventurist , to get outdoors news sent straight to your inbox @

Mesa Verde National Park has become the second national park in the state to close in an effort to stop the relentless spread of coronavirus in Colorado.
The park’s closure, which went into effect at sunset Wednesday, came a few hours after Gov. Jared Polis issued a statewide stay-at-home order for Colorado’s 5.7 million residents.
Those stuck at home wishing to take advantage of the many digital tools available to explore Mesa Verde National Park, including their mobile app, podcasts and videos, can do so on the park’s website.
Mesa Verde’s closure comes just five days after Rocky Mountain National Park officials said they would be closing the gates to further prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Read more on our partner site Denver7.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The Adventurist, to get outdoors news sent straight to your inbox.


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--ICE employee at Aurora immigration detention facility tests positive for COVID-19

An U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement staff member who works at the Aurora detention facility tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday .
The staff member worked in the administrative offices at the facility , owned and operated by private prison company GEO Group , and had no direct contact with detainees , said an ICE spokesperson who refused to be named because she said she didn ’ t have permission from her boss .
The staff member had not been to work for a week , the spokesperson said .
None of the detainees have been diagnosed with the novel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say whether any of the detainees had been tested or whether the facility had access to tests .
The positive diagnosis was first reported by Westword .
The immigration court located inside the 1,532-bed detention facility will be closed Thursday .
The court has remained open while other immigration courts for people not in custody have closed .
Last week , 10 people detained at the facility were isolated after possible exposure to the coronavirus .
Family visitation has been stopped and attorneys visiting their clients or appearing in court are required to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the facility .

An U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement staff member who works at the Aurora detention facility tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday.
The staff member worked in the administrative offices at the facility, owned and operated by private prison company GEO Group, and had no direct contact with detainees, said an ICE spokesperson who refused to be named because she said she didn’t have permission from her boss.
The staff member had not been to work for a week, the spokesperson said. None of the detainees have been diagnosed with the novel coronavirus, but the spokesperson refused to say whether any of the detainees had been tested or whether the facility had access to tests. The positive diagnosis was first reported by Westword.
The immigration court located inside the 1,532-bed detention facility will be closed Thursday. The court has remained open while other immigration courts for people not in custody have closed.
Last week, 10 people detained at the facility were isolated after possible exposure to the coronavirus. Family visitation has been stopped and attorneys visiting their clients or appearing in court are required to wear protective gear like masks to enter the facility.


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Keeler: Think you’re lonely? Try being a Rockies scout with no Opening Day

The Rockies should be in San Diego .
Jay Matthews should be in Athens .
Louisville .
Somewhere .
Anywhere .
“ I get up and I go , ‘ I know I ’ ve got to be someplace , ’ ” Matthews , the longtime Rockies scout and national cross-checker , said by phone from greater Charlotte , where he ’ s locked down , too .
“ I ’ d get my travel ready to go , but there ’ s nowhere to go .
There ’ s no baseball to watch .
“ Part of our job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
So you ’ d get up and say , ‘ Dang , I ’ ve got a great day to watch baseball.
’ But there ’ s no baseball to be played.
” This is when the weird gets cranked up a notch .
Unlike the NCAA Tournament , at least COVID-19 didn ’ t walk in and drive a wooden stake right through the heart of Opening Day .
Yet .
The Rockies are the movie you paused about 16 minutes in , the can that keeps getting kicked farther @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheduled to go up Thursday .
It might be June 1 now .
Might be July 1 .
Might be never .
While the Lords of MLB are trying to put a brave public face on a giant mess , Yahoo Sports reported earlier this week that the mid-summer classic , the 2020 All-Star game , is likely to be played well after the middle of the summer has come and gone .
And Dick Monfort ’ s 94-win promise is going to be a beast to catch with all of March and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wind .
“ It ’ s an adjustment with no end in sight , really , ” Matthews said .
“ You just go day-to-day , look forward to the next day and see what happens .
“ The grocery stores are just a nightmare .
I went grocery shopping and there was no meat , no eggs , no bread .
Gone .
“ Until they get the virus contained , everything ’ s shut down .
You couldn ’ t even go to church on Sunday .
It ’ s different.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal , containment feels more like punishment .
This week , he ’ d ordinarily be combing through the SEC and ACC , setting up the Rockies ’ next wave .
Matthews is going on nearly 23 years with the organization , a stellar evaluator whose signings include Chris Iannetta , Jeff Baker , Ryan Speier , Ben Paulsen and Cory Sullivan .
He was on the Russell Wilson train well before the rest of the free world caught up , recognizing the same intangibles Pete Carroll and the Seahawks saw : Dedication @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you forget about the build .
“ This is our busiest time , ” Matthews said .
“ And to be grounded … I get up in the morning , I run , get some exercise .
And I come back and check with my co-workers , we talk , and I look at my list every day and see where I ’ m at.
” Not Nashville .
Not Gainesville .
Not Starkville .
On the day the Rockies were supposed to get this party started , Charlotte got locked down .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ There ’ s a lot of talk between our staff , just to keep our heads going , ” Matthews said .
“ ‘ Hey man , what are you doing ?
How are you doing ?
’ Kind of supporting each other .
And just knowing we ’ re here and we ’ re all in the same boat.
” We ’ re all in this together .
Just spare a loaf .

The Rockies should be in San Diego. Jay Matthews should be in Athens. Louisville. Somewhere. Anywhere.
“I get up and I go, ‘I know I’ve got to be someplace,’” Matthews, the longtime Rockies scout and national cross-checker, said by phone from greater Charlotte, where he’s locked down, too. “I’d get my travel ready to go, but there’s nowhere to go. There’s no baseball to watch.
“Part of our job is, we’re weathermen, too. So you’d get up and say, ‘Dang, I’ve got a great day to watch baseball.’ But there’s no baseball to be played.”
This is when the weird gets cranked up a notch. Unlike the NCAA Tournament, at least COVID-19 didn’t walk in and drive a wooden stake right through the heart of Opening Day. Yet.
The Rockies are the movie you paused about 16 minutes in, the can that keeps getting kicked farther down the road.
The curtain was scheduled to go up Thursday. It might be June 1 now. Might be July 1. Might be never.
While the Lords of MLB are trying to put a brave public face on a giant mess, Yahoo Sports reported earlier this week that the mid-summer classic, the 2020 All-Star game, is likely to be played well after the middle of the summer has come and gone.
And Dick Monfort’s 94-win promise is going to be a beast to catch with all of March and April’s games cast to the wind.
“It’s an adjustment with no end in sight, really,” Matthews said. “You just go day-to-day, look forward to the next day and see what happens.
“The grocery stores are just a nightmare. I went grocery shopping and there was no meat, no eggs, no bread. Gone.
“Until they get the virus contained, everything’s shut down. You couldn’t even go to church on Sunday. It’s different.”
When the open road is your normal, containment feels more like punishment. This week, he’d ordinarily be combing through the SEC and ACC, setting up the Rockies’ next wave.
Matthews is going on nearly 23 years with the organization, a stellar evaluator whose signings include Chris Iannetta, Jeff Baker, Ryan Speier, Ben Paulsen and Cory Sullivan. He was on the Russell Wilson train well before the rest of the free world caught up, recognizing the same intangibles Pete Carroll and the Seahawks saw: Dedication and maturity that were going to make you forget about the build.
“This is our busiest time,” Matthews said.
“And to be grounded … I get up in the morning, I run, get some exercise. And I come back and check with my co-workers, we talk, and I look at my list every day and see where I’m at.”
Not Nashville. Not Gainesville. Not Starkville. On the day the Rockies were supposed to get this party started, Charlotte got locked down. Stay-at-home orders through at least April 16.
“There’s a lot of talk between our staff, just to keep our heads going,” Matthews said. “‘Hey man, what are you doing? How are you doing?’ Kind of supporting each other. And just knowing we’re here and we’re all in the same boat.”
We’re all in this together. Just spare a loaf.


thedenverpost--2020-03-26--Kiszla: With no baseball on opening day, Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland feels pain of “nothing to loo

Kiszla: With no baseball on opening day, Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland feels pain of “nothing to look forward to”

Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland is Colorado strong .
But in the age of coronavirus , he compulsively grabs a bottle of hand sanitizer before leaving the house .
Freeland loves baseball .
But instead of taking the mound for Colorado , he is stuck in the backyard , playing fetch with Benny , his German shepherd .
“ It ’ s very strange knowing we ’ re not going to play baseball on opening day , ” Freeland said Wednesday .
There will be no baseball today .
No turnstiles clicking or crowd buzzing .
No happy crunch of peanut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fifth-grade class singing the national anthem delightfully off-key before the home plate umpire leads our chorus : “ Play ball !
” From Fenway Park to Wrigley Field to Chavez Ravine , major-league ballparks sit empty .
Opening day has been put on hold , while we obsessively wash our hands and hoard toilet paper , hoping that ’ s enough to beat a pandemic .
No baseball also means the redemption of Freeland has been delayed .
“ It ’ s frustrating , ” said Freeland , giving voice to the stay-at-home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ It really seems like no positive news has come out .
… Nothing to look forward to.
” Nobody wants to get back to Coors Field with more urgency than Freeland .
He was a 17-game winner and Colorado ’ s favorite son in 2018 , when the Rockies has visions of World Series glory .
Then all the good vibes were flushed straight down a rabbit hole for both Freeland and his teammates , who lost 91 games last year .
“ I ’ d be lying to say that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you say : ‘ This ( stinks ) in general .
And I ( stink ) .
’ It ’ s hard not to go there , because you ’ re struggling , you ’ re not seeing any kind of success , ” said Freeland , whose earned run average ballooned to 6.73 in 2019 .
As a much-anticipated playoff race went off the rails for the Rockies , the 26-year-old graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School was shipped to the minor leagues in search of his mojo and fastball command .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Freeland was broken and emotionally battered as he took a seat in the office of Albuquerque Isotopes manager Glenallen Hill .
Hill , who spent 13 big-league seasons as an outfielder bouncing among seven teams , looked the reeling pitcher in the eye and offered words that began Freeland ’ s recovery .
“ Look , you ’ re in a tough spot right now , ” said Hill , telling the hard truth .
“ But in this organization , you ’ re one of the guys looked up to.
” It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that allowed Freeland to realize he wasn ’ t alone in a struggle with a game that dares to mess with a player ’ s head .
Hill , who had experienced horrendous slumps as hitter , could relate to “ what I was feeling .
That sense of loss .
That sense you ’ re not good enough to play this game anymore , ” Freeland said .
So we cheer for a comeback to his dominating form , because Freeland is one of us .
He ’ s as genuinely Colorado @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drives with dog hair from his golden retriever and German shepherd on the seats .
Freeland ditched skis for a snowboard at age 8 , and grew up loving Denver sports teams as much as you do .
During the magical Rocktober run of 2007 , as a freshman stuck in Spanish class , he surreptitiously glanced at updates from an afternoon playoff game against Philadelphia via text messages from his brother , who was camped out in the parking lot , listening to the car radio .
Then Kaz Matsui hit a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Right when my brother sent that text , half our classroom erupted , ” he recalled , laughing .
Determined to again be a pitcher fans stand up and cheer , Freeland has put together a five-step plan to return him to the defiant and fist-pumping lefty who silenced Wrigley with 20 scoreless outs during a 2-1 playoff victory against the Cubs in 2018 , which is the best night in franchise history , if you ’ re asking me .
Freeland has stared down the self-doubt .
But how close to complete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and his bruised psyche ?
Heck , we don ’ t know , because he can ’ t know .
The sample size for this recovery is too small .
Between a bout of back spasms and the pandemic that shuttered sports , Freeland threw only five innings during spring training .
The uncertainty of what ’ s next ?
That ’ s a stress test .
For Freeland , and for us all .
When can we get back to hugging , much less return to work ?
This might be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t stop it from feeling unnatural .
“ When can we fire things back up and get things rolling again ?
” Freeland said .
“ I think that ’ s the question everybody wants to know.
” As we ride out the coronavirus together , trying not to go stir crazy by occasionally walking our dogs in sunshine that promises better days ahead , we are all Kyle Freeland .
We are Colorado strong .
And itching to make a comeback , stronger than ever .

Rockies pitcher Kyle Freeland is Colorado strong. But in the age of coronavirus, he compulsively grabs a bottle of hand sanitizer before leaving the house. Freeland loves baseball. But instead of taking the mound for Colorado, he is stuck in the backyard, playing fetch with Benny, his German shepherd.
“It’s very strange knowing we’re not going to play baseball on opening day,” Freeland said Wednesday.
There will be no baseball today. No turnstiles clicking or crowd buzzing. No happy crunch of peanut shells underfoot in the bleachers. No fifth-grade class singing the national anthem delightfully off-key before the home plate umpire leads our chorus: “Play ball!”
From Fenway Park to Wrigley Field to Chavez Ravine, major-league ballparks sit empty. Opening day has been put on hold, while we obsessively wash our hands and hoard toilet paper, hoping that’s enough to beat a pandemic.
No baseball also means the redemption of Freeland has been delayed.
“It’s frustrating,” said Freeland, giving voice to the stay-at-home anxiety the rest of us also wrestle. “It really seems like no positive news has come out. … Nothing to look forward to.”
Nobody wants to get back to Coors Field with more urgency than Freeland. He was a 17-game winner and Colorado’s favorite son in 2018, when the Rockies has visions of World Series glory. Then all the good vibes were flushed straight down a rabbit hole for both Freeland and his teammates, who lost 91 games last year.
“I’d be lying to say that my mind never went there, where you say: ‘This (stinks) in general. And I (stink).’ It’s hard not to go there, because you’re struggling, you’re not seeing any kind of success,” said Freeland, whose earned run average ballooned to 6.73 in 2019.
As a much-anticipated playoff race went off the rails for the Rockies, the 26-year-old graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School was shipped to the minor leagues in search of his mojo and fastball command.
On the first weekend in June, Freeland was broken and emotionally battered as he took a seat in the office of Albuquerque Isotopes manager Glenallen Hill.
Hill, who spent 13 big-league seasons as an outfielder bouncing among seven teams, looked the reeling pitcher in the eye and offered words that began Freeland’s recovery.
“Look, you’re in a tough spot right now,” said Hill, telling the hard truth. “But in this organization, you’re one of the guys looked up to.”
It was a small display of unwavering faith that allowed Freeland to realize he wasn’t alone in a struggle with a game that dares to mess with a player’s head. Hill, who had experienced horrendous slumps as hitter, could relate to “what I was feeling. That sense of loss. That sense you’re not good enough to play this game anymore,” Freeland said.
So we cheer for a comeback to his dominating form, because Freeland is one of us. He’s as genuinely Colorado as the sport utility vehicle he proudly drives with dog hair from his golden retriever and German shepherd on the seats.
Freeland ditched skis for a snowboard at age 8, and grew up loving Denver sports teams as much as you do. During the magical Rocktober run of 2007, as a freshman stuck in Spanish class, he surreptitiously glanced at updates from an afternoon playoff game against Philadelphia via text messages from his brother, who was camped out in the parking lot, listening to the car radio.
Then Kaz Matsui hit a grand slam for the Rockies.
And Freeland was oh-so-busted.
“Right when my brother sent that text, half our classroom erupted,” he recalled, laughing.
Determined to again be a pitcher fans stand up and cheer, Freeland has put together a five-step plan to return him to the defiant and fist-pumping lefty who silenced Wrigley with 20 scoreless outs during a 2-1 playoff victory against the Cubs in 2018, which is the best night in franchise history, if you’re asking me.
Freeland has stared down the self-doubt. But how close to complete is the rehab of his pitching delivery and his bruised psyche? Heck, we don’t know, because he can’t know. The sample size for this recovery is too small. Between a bout of back spasms and the pandemic that shuttered sports, Freeland threw only five innings during spring training.
The uncertainty of what’s next? That’s a stress test. For Freeland, and for us all. When can we get back to hugging, much less return to work? This might be the new normal, but that doesn’t stop it from feeling unnatural.
“When can we fire things back up and get things rolling again?” Freeland said. “I think that’s the question everybody wants to know.”
As we ride out the coronavirus together, trying not to go stir crazy by occasionally walking our dogs in sunshine that promises better days ahead, we are all Kyle Freeland.
We are Colorado strong. And itching to make a comeback, stronger than ever.


thedenverpost--2020-04-17--Resignations follow revelations of FBI investigation into Denver CEO Brian Watson, lawsuit says

Several top managers at Northstar Commercial Partners left the company earlier this month after CEO Brian Watson said he was under investigation by the FBI , according to an April 9 filing in a lawsuit against the real estate company .
The resignations of Northstar ’ s chief operating officer , chief financial officer and a senior accountant all came after Watson wrote in a widely disseminated email on April 2 that the FBI served a search warrant at his home and seized his cell phone and computer as part of a fraud investigation , according to the amended complaint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have recently left the company did not return requests for comment Thursday and a third said his decision to leave was made before the FBI ’ s visit to Watson ’ s home .
The lawsuit , originally filed in March by Balfour Ann Arbor , alleges that Northstar breached its contract by failing to appropriately manage the 50-50 partnership between the two companies as they developed a senior living community in Ann Arbor , Michigan .
Balfour is headquartered in Louisville .
The lawsuit alleges Watson did not attend key meetings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ budget shortfalls that left the senior living facility unable to pay staff and suppliers .
Both Watson and the lawsuit claim the FBI is investigating a $ 3 million wire transfer made earlier this year by Northstar .
The money was supposed to go to a construction contractor on the Ann Arbor senior living project .
Watson wrote in the April 2 email that the construction contractor sent Northstar incorrect wire transfer instructions — apparently , he said , after being hacked — and that Northstar subsequently followed those directions and sent the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the construction company .
Watson , who declined to comment for this story , wrote in the email that he contacted the FBI for help earlier this year and that he believes the agency recovered the $ 3 million but had not returned it to Northstar .
“ We have been pleading with them to return the money to us so we could pay [ the contractor ] , ” Watson wrote in the email .
The FBI has declined to comment .
The lawsuit alleges that the mistaken wire transfer constitutes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Balfour did not return a request for comment Thursday .
“ If that is true , then the ‘ hacking ’ was possible because Defendants inexcusably failed to follow the basic practice of verbally confirming the Wire ’ s transmission and receipt to a different recipient bank than [ the contractor ] had historically used , ” the lawsuit says .
Watson ’ s attorney , Stan Garnett , did not return a request for comment Thursday but previously told the Denver Post that Watson denies any wrongdoing .
Although the lawsuit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so because of the FBI investigation , at least one , David Gomez , who was a senior accountant , said Thursday his decision to resign was made in late March , before the FBI visited Watson ’ s home .
Gomez did not officially leave the company until April 9 .
He said as the accountant on the Ann Arbor senior living project , he believes any allegations of fraud or misappropriation of funds on that project are false .
“ They will never find anything there , ” he said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the funds that were ever deposited or sent to us , we used the funds for what the purpose of those funds were — to pay for development and operational costs.
” Gomez , who left the company after a major client broke ties with Northstar , said Watson is a hardworking leader who treated employees well .
“ He ’ s the hardest working CEO I ’ ve worked for , ” Gomez said .
“ He ’ s endured a lot in the past year or so , lost a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it hurts to see him go through all of this , especially because we ’ ve had four years of successful investments together.
” Watson , who has faced criticism for his business practices in the past , narrowly lost a bid for state treasurer in 2018 .

Several top managers at Northstar Commercial Partners left the company earlier this month after CEO Brian Watson said he was under investigation by the FBI, according to an April 9 filing in a lawsuit against the real estate company.
The resignations of Northstar’s chief operating officer, chief financial officer and a senior accountant all came after Watson wrote in a widely disseminated email on April 2 that the FBI served a search warrant at his home and seized his cell phone and computer as part of a fraud investigation, according to the amended complaint.
Two of the managers who appear to have recently left the company did not return requests for comment Thursday and a third said his decision to leave was made before the FBI’s visit to Watson’s home.
The lawsuit, originally filed in March by Balfour Ann Arbor, alleges that Northstar breached its contract by failing to appropriately manage the 50-50 partnership between the two companies as they developed a senior living community in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Balfour is headquartered in Louisville. The lawsuit alleges Watson did not attend key meetings and failed to recognize or deal with budget shortfalls that left the senior living facility unable to pay staff and suppliers.
Both Watson and the lawsuit claim the FBI is investigating a $3 million wire transfer made earlier this year by Northstar. The money was supposed to go to a construction contractor on the Ann Arbor senior living project.
Watson wrote in the April 2 email that the construction contractor sent Northstar incorrect wire transfer instructions — apparently, he said, after being hacked — and that Northstar subsequently followed those directions and sent the money to the apparent hackers, not to the construction company.
Watson, who declined to comment for this story, wrote in the email that he contacted the FBI for help earlier this year and that he believes the agency recovered the $3 million but had not returned it to Northstar.
“We have been pleading with them to return the money to us so we could pay [the contractor],” Watson wrote in the email. The FBI has declined to comment.
The lawsuit alleges that the mistaken wire transfer constitutes gross negligence by Northstar. An attorney for Balfour did not return a request for comment Thursday.
“If that is true, then the ‘hacking’ was possible because Defendants inexcusably failed to follow the basic practice of verbally confirming the Wire’s transmission and receipt to a different recipient bank than [the contractor] had historically used,” the lawsuit says.
Watson’s attorney, Stan Garnett, did not return a request for comment Thursday but previously told the Denver Post that Watson denies any wrongdoing.
Although the lawsuit implies the managers who left recently did so because of the FBI investigation, at least one, David Gomez, who was a senior accountant, said Thursday his decision to resign was made in late March, before the FBI visited Watson’s home. Gomez did not officially leave the company until April 9.
He said as the accountant on the Ann Arbor senior living project, he believes any allegations of fraud or misappropriation of funds on that project are false.
“They will never find anything there,” he said. “I kept the books and records and the funds that were ever deposited or sent to us, we used the funds for what the purpose of those funds were — to pay for development and operational costs.”
Gomez, who left the company after a major client broke ties with Northstar, said Watson is a hardworking leader who treated employees well.
“He’s the hardest working CEO I’ve worked for,” Gomez said. “He’s endured a lot in the past year or so, lost a couple people close to him, and it hurts to see him go through all of this, especially because we’ve had four years of successful investments together.”
Watson, who has faced criticism for his business practices in the past, narrowly lost a bid for state treasurer in 2018.


thedenverpost--2020-04-16--Colorado jury trials suspended through June 1

Colorado ’ s top judge on Thursday extended a statewide suspension on jury trials through June 1 due to the @ @ @ @ @ that nobody will be required to report for jury duty through May .
The decision @ @ @ @ @ Chief Justice Nathan Coats extended an order issued March 16 that suspended all jury trials @ @ @ @ @ have been given the authority to manage how other court hearings proceed in their jurisdictions @ @ @ @ @ plans for at least one upcoming high-profile case — again .
The trial of Mark @ @ @ @ @ his 13-year-old son in 2012 , was scheduled to begin April 2 .
The trial @ @ @ @ @ 26 start due to the coronavirus .

Colorado’s top judge on Thursday extended a statewide suspension on jury trials through June 1 due to the coronavirus.
The extension means that nobody will be required to report for jury duty through May. The decision Thursday by Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Coats extended an order issued March 16 that suspended all jury trials.
Judges in local courts have been given the authority to manage how other court hearings proceed in their jurisdictions.
The extension could scramble plans for at least one upcoming high-profile case — again. The trial of Mark Redwine, accused of killing his 13-year-old son in 2012, was scheduled to begin April 2. The trial was rescheduled for a May 26 start due to the coronavirus.


thedenverpost--2020-04-16--Colorado’s high school seniors can take the SAT for free this fall

Colorado ’ s high school seniors will be able to take the SAT for free on a school day come fall , the Colorado Department of Education announced Thursday .
Gov .
Jared Polis suspended all K-12 state testing for the remainder of the school year as the coronavirus pandemic prompted a disruption to learning with the mass closure of school buildings to prevent the spread of the highly contagious respiratory illness .
“ Given the SAT plays an important role in the lives of Colorado ’ s high school students as a means of demonstrating readiness for graduation and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scholarship opportunities , a commitment was made to investigate alternative testing options , ” the state education department said in a news release .
Students unable to take the SAT on the designated school day this fall — which has not yet been announced — would likely be given a voucher to participate in a national administration of the test .
The results of the SAT would not be used for school or district accountability , which has been paused for the 2020-2021 school year , the state education department said .
An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on adequate state funds being available , the news release said .

Colorado’s high school seniors will be able to take the SAT for free on a school day come fall, the Colorado Department of Education announced Thursday.
Gov. Jared Polis suspended all K-12 state testing for the remainder of the school year as the coronavirus pandemic prompted a disruption to learning with the mass closure of school buildings to prevent the spread of the highly contagious respiratory illness.
“Given the SAT plays an important role in the lives of Colorado’s high school students as a means of demonstrating readiness for graduation and postsecondary experiences, as well as providing scholarship opportunities, a commitment was made to investigate alternative testing options,” the state education department said in a news release.
Students unable to take the SAT on the designated school day this fall — which has not yet been announced — would likely be given a voucher to participate in a national administration of the test.
The results of the SAT would not be used for school or district accountability, which has been paused for the 2020-2021 school year, the state education department said.
An administration of the test this fall depends on adequate state funds being available, the news release said.


thedenverpost--2020-04-16--Thunderbirds to honor frontline workers by flying over Colorado communities

The Air Force Thunderbirds will lift the spirits of Air Force Academy graduates on Saturday in a traditional flyover , then the F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots will break with tradition and perform a series of community flyovers to honor Colorado ’ s frontline COVID-19 responders .
The community flyovers , which will start about 12:50 p.m. and last an hour , is a way to “ honor health care workers , first responders , military members and other essential personnel who are working on the front lines to combat the coronavirus , ” according to an Air Force news release @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to deliver remarks at the Air Force Academy ’ s graduation in Colorado Springs .
The Thunderbirds formation , made up of eight F-16 , single-engine supersonic fighter aircraft , will fly over areas including Greeley , Windsor , Fort Collins , Loveland , Longmont , Boulder , Denver , Denver International Airport , Buckley Air Force Base , Colorado Springs , Fort Carson and Pueblo .
Front Range residents can expect to hear the jets roar as they zoom overhead .
Some will see the tight formation of fighter aircraft race in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Our team is honored to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the countless Coloradans working every day to support their communities during this difficult time , ” Thunderbirds commander Lt. Col. John Caldwell said in a news release .
“ We want Coloradans to look up from their homes and enjoy the display of American resolve and pride while keeping frontline responders in their hearts .
”

The Air Force Thunderbirds will lift the spirits of Air Force Academy graduates on Saturday in a traditional flyover, then the F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots will break with tradition and perform a series of community flyovers to honor Colorado’s frontline COVID-19 responders.
The community flyovers, which will start about 12:50 p.m. and last an hour, is a way to “honor health care workers, first responders, military members and other essential personnel who are working on the front lines to combat the coronavirus,” according to an Air Force news release.
Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled to deliver remarks at the Air Force Academy’s graduation in Colorado Springs.
Tomorrow’s Colorado Flight Path Note: the flyover serves as a salute to the healthcare workers, first responders and other essential personnel on the front line against #COVID in the Centennial State 🏔#AirForceSalutes pic.twitter.com/JfZMTfEBA1 — Thunderbirds (@AFThunderbirds) April 18, 2020
The Thunderbirds formation, made up of eight F-16, single-engine supersonic fighter aircraft, will fly over areas including Greeley, Windsor, Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont, Boulder, Denver, Denver International Airport, Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Fort Carson and Pueblo.
Front Range residents can expect to hear the jets roar as they zoom overhead. Some will see the tight formation of fighter aircraft race in precise formation through the Colorado sky.
“Our team is honored to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the countless Coloradans working every day to support their communities during this difficult time,” Thunderbirds commander Lt. Col. John Caldwell said in a news release. “We want Coloradans to look up from their homes and enjoy the display of American resolve and pride while keeping frontline responders in their hearts.”


thedenverpost--2020-04-16--Colorado, we want to hear from you: How will you live in a long-term coronavirus world?

The Denver Post wants to hear from Coloradans about how you ’ re planning to change your daily routines , @ @ @ @ @ you adjust to living with coronavirus in the state for the long-term .
Colorado ’ @ @ @ @ @ to expire at the end of the month , relaxing some social distancing measures , @ @ @ @ @ has said a complete return to normal life will be impossible until a vaccine or @ @ @ @ @ what will you do differently ?
Are you weighing what to do with your summer @ @ @ @ @ a season ticket holder for the Colorado Rockies ?
Will you be donning masks and @ @ @ @ @ next few months , or staying home more than normal ?
Are you heading back @ @ @ @ @ for childcare for the rest of the school year ?
Fill out the form below @ @ @ @ @

The Denver Post wants to hear from Coloradans about how you’re planning to change your daily routines, activities and summer plans as you adjust to living with coronavirus in the state for the long-term.
Colorado’s stay-at-home order is expected to expire at the end of the month, relaxing some social distancing measures, but Gov. Jared Polis has said a complete return to normal life will be impossible until a vaccine or cure is developed.
So what will you do differently? Are you weighing what to do with your summer concert tickets? Are you a season ticket holder for the Colorado Rockies? Will you be donning masks and gloves at restaurants for the next few months, or staying home more than normal? Are you heading back to work and making plans for childcare for the rest of the school year? Fill out the form below to let us know.


thedenverpost--2020-04-16--Colorado confirms 374 coronavirus deaths while infections — and recoveries — continue to rise

At least 374 people have died from complications of the novel coronavirus in Colorado as total cases topped 8,600 on Thursday , state health officials said .
Nearly 1,700 people have been hospitalized with COVID-19 , the highly infectious respiratory illness , since the outbreak began last month , but only 859 people were in Colorado hospitals with symptoms of the illness as of Wednesday afternoon , state data shows .
At least 239 people between Tuesday and Wednesday either went home or were transferred to a lower level of care , like a rehabilitation facility .
State health officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ including nursing homes , correctional facilities and factories .
The state health department announces new totals daily of coronavirus deaths and confirmed cases based on what ’ s reported up from Colorado ’ s counties ; though the deaths and positive test results may be announced on a particular day , they may have occurred any time in the past and are just now being reported to the state .
Close to 42,000 people have now been tested across the state , as officials work to achieve mass testing capabilities , one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Polis lifts his stay-at-home order .

At least 374 people have died from complications of the novel coronavirus in Colorado as total cases topped 8,600 on Thursday, state health officials said.
Nearly 1,700 people have been hospitalized with COVID-19, the highly infectious respiratory illness, since the outbreak began last month, but only 859 people were in Colorado hospitals with symptoms of the illness as of Wednesday afternoon, state data shows. At least 239 people between Tuesday and Wednesday either went home or were transferred to a lower level of care, like a rehabilitation facility.
State health officials also confirmed 93 outbreaks at contained facilities including nursing homes, correctional facilities and factories.
The state health department announces new totals daily of coronavirus deaths and confirmed cases based on what’s reported up from Colorado’s counties; though the deaths and positive test results may be announced on a particular day, they may have occurred any time in the past and are just now being reported to the state.
Close to 42,000 people have now been tested across the state, as officials work to achieve mass testing capabilities, one of the key goals before Gov. Jared Polis lifts his stay-at-home order.


thedenverpost--2020-04-16--Colorado hospitals predict continued protective equipment shortages, but conditions are starting to

Colorado hospitals predict continued protective equipment shortages, but conditions are starting to improve

A data snapshot from the Colorado Hospital Association showed at least 19 of the state ’ s hospitals expect to be short of protective equipment , staff or intensive care beds in the next week , but they said that ’ s an improvement over recent weeks .
The data also showed 859 people were in Colorado hospitals with symptoms believed to be from COVID-19 between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday afternoon , while 239 either went home or were transferred to a lower level of care , like a rehabilitation facility .
Earlier this week , the hospital association announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left Colorado hospitals in a span of just three days..
The hospital numbers were down from a peak of 888 two days earlier , but it ’ s too early to know if that means the worst is over , because the number of hospitalizations fell for three days last week before rising to a new high .
The hospital association only began tracking discharges on Sunday , so it ’ s too soon to pick out a pattern .
As of Thursday , 19 hospitals anticipated shortages of protective equipment like masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on staff and four said they were running out of beds in their intensive care units .
The predictions for staff and equipment shortfalls have stayed roughly the same since the data was first collected on April 10 , but the number of hospitals worried about running out of beds dropped from seven at the end of last week .
Julie Lonborg , vice president of communications at the hospital association , said social distancing has reduced the strain on Colorado ’ s hospitals , and harder-hit facilities have been able to cover @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She said the association won ’ t release which hospitals are anticipating shortages , because of concerns that patients will bypass the nearest hospital during a heart attack or stroke if they think it ’ s overwhelmed .
“ We don ’ t want people making choices based on that information , ” she said .
“ We want them to go to the nearest emergency room , like always .
”

A data snapshot from the Colorado Hospital Association showed at least 19 of the state’s hospitals expect to be short of protective equipment, staff or intensive care beds in the next week, but they said that’s an improvement over recent weeks.
The data also showed 859 people were in Colorado hospitals with symptoms believed to be from COVID-19 between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday afternoon, while 239 either went home or were transferred to a lower level of care, like a rehabilitation facility.
Earlier this week, the hospital association announced that about 500 people had recovered and left Colorado hospitals in a span of just three days.
The hospital numbers were down from a peak of 888 two days earlier, but it’s too early to know if that means the worst is over, because the number of hospitalizations fell for three days last week before rising to a new high. The hospital association only began tracking discharges on Sunday, so it’s too soon to pick out a pattern.
As of Thursday, 19 hospitals anticipated shortages of protective equipment like masks, three thought they would be short on staff and four said they were running out of beds in their intensive care units. The predictions for staff and equipment shortfalls have stayed roughly the same since the data was first collected on April 10, but the number of hospitals worried about running out of beds dropped from seven at the end of last week.
Julie Lonborg, vice president of communications at the hospital association, said social distancing has reduced the strain on Colorado’s hospitals, and harder-hit facilities have been able to cover shortfalls by calling on nearby hospitals. She said the association won’t release which hospitals are anticipating shortages, because of concerns that patients will bypass the nearest hospital during a heart attack or stroke if they think it’s overwhelmed.
“We don’t want people making choices based on that information,” she said. “We want them to go to the nearest emergency room, like always.”
COVID-19 admissions/discharges in Colorado hospitals
April 12: 822 hospitalized, 149 discharges
April 13: 842 hospitalized, 148 discharges
April 14: 888 hospitalized, 203 discharges
April 15: 878 hospitalized, 220 discharges
April 16: 859 hospitalized, 239 discharges
Source: Colorado Hospital Association