thedenverpost--2020-01-22--Colorado oil and gas producer KP Kauffman to pay $3.5 million in fines, repairs in air pollution set

Colorado oil and gas producer KP Kauffman to pay $3.5 million in fines, repairs in air pollution settlement

Federal and state authorities have reached a settlement agreement that would compel Denver-based oil and gas producer KP Kauffman to pay $ 1 million and spend $ 2.5 million more improving pollution controls at 67 facilities in Colorado to resolve alleged violations of air quality laws .
The settlement filed Tuesday in federal court means 93 % of the 3,141 oil and gas industry facilities with storage tanks in the area around metro Denver where air quality violates federal health standards , and in part of Weld County , now fall under compliance orders to clean up .
This was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gas companies in Colorado accused of violating laws designed to minimize air pollution from storage tanks .
The other settlements involved Noble Energy in 2015 , PDC Energy in 2017 and HighPoint Operating Company in 2019 .
“ Oil and gas production fuels our economy , but it must be done responsibly , ” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bossert Clark said .
“ We will continue to take action where operators fail to comply with our nation ’ s clean air laws.
” Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment officials pointed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts by Colorado ’ s Air Quality Control Commission to reduce environmental harm .
“ The 93 % figure reflects the fact that the state is serious about emissions control and standing behind its regulations to reduce emissions , ” state environment programs director John Putnam said .
“ We will not accept noncompliance with the commission ’ s critical regulations to reduce emissions from tanks.
” Inspectors from the Environmental Protection Agency and the state investigated Kauffman operations between 2013 and 2018 and found elevated hazardous emissions from storage tanks .
Leaks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or VOCs , from industry facilities have been a focus of concern for air pollution control officials .
The inspectors found enough problems , such as under-sized vapor control systems and inadequate operations and maintenance practices , that they filed a legal complaint in October 2018 that Kauffman violated federal and state requirements to minimize emissions of VOCs .
This type of pollution leads to the formation of ground-level ozone , which irritates the lungs , exacerbates asthma , and increases susceptibility to respiratory illnesses , such as pneumonia and bronchitis .
Federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court approval after a 30-day comment period , will improve air quality in communities by reducing VOCs pollution .
Colorado currently ranks among the nation ’ s worst violators of federal health standards due to elevated ozone .
The authorities said improvements , including installation of pressure monitors to detect excess pollution , would cut Kauffman ’ s emissions of VOCs by 424 tons a year .
Under the settlement , Kauffman would have to improve company operations and maintenance and ensure proper vapor control systems on storage tanks .
Company crews would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using infrared cameras to detect pollution .
A $ 1 million civil penalty would be paid to the federal and state governments .
Kauffman officials referred queries to a company attorney who couldn ’ t immediately be reached .
Federal officials declined to discuss their case , but issued statements .
“ The EPA continues to enforce the Clean Air Act , and our partnership with the state continues to deliver cleaner , healthier air for Colorado ’ s communities , ” EPA regional administrator Gregory Sopkin said .
Colorado health chief Jill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Our laws and regulations exist to protect the health and well-being of everyone who calls Colorado home .
This settlement demonstrates our commitment to holding companies accountable for their violations and taking the decisive steps necessary to minimize volatile organic compound emissions.
” Anti-fracking activists said this settlement shows that Colorado must take a tougher approach — financed by increased fees on companies .
“ Colorado must do more to monitor pollution emissions from operators in the oil and gas industry .
Industry can not be allowed to self-monitor .
We know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just doesn ’ t work , ” said Leslie Weise , a director of 350 Colorado .

Federal and state authorities have reached a settlement agreement that would compel Denver-based oil and gas producer KP Kauffman to pay $1 million and spend $2.5 million more improving pollution controls at 67 facilities in Colorado to resolve alleged violations of air quality laws.
The settlement filed Tuesday in federal court means 93% of the 3,141 oil and gas industry facilities with storage tanks in the area around metro Denver where air quality violates federal health standards, and in part of Weld County, now fall under compliance orders to clean up.
This was the fourth recent settlement with oil and gas companies in Colorado accused of violating laws designed to minimize air pollution from storage tanks. The other settlements involved Noble Energy in 2015, PDC Energy in 2017 and HighPoint Operating Company in 2019.
“Oil and gas production fuels our economy, but it must be done responsibly,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bossert Clark said. “We will continue to take action where operators fail to comply with our nation’s clean air laws.”
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment officials pointed to the compliance orders as evidence of tougher efforts by Colorado’s Air Quality Control Commission to reduce environmental harm.
“The 93% figure reflects the fact that the state is serious about emissions control and standing behind its regulations to reduce emissions,” state environment programs director John Putnam said. “We will not accept noncompliance with the commission’s critical regulations to reduce emissions from tanks.”
Inspectors from the Environmental Protection Agency and the state investigated Kauffman operations between 2013 and 2018 and found elevated hazardous emissions from storage tanks. Leaks of chemicals called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, from industry facilities have been a focus of concern for air pollution control officials.
The inspectors found enough problems, such as under-sized vapor control systems and inadequate operations and maintenance practices, that they filed a legal complaint in October 2018 that Kauffman violated federal and state requirements to minimize emissions of VOCs. This type of pollution leads to the formation of ground-level ozone, which irritates the lungs, exacerbates asthma, and increases susceptibility to respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
Federal prosecutors said the settlement, subject to court approval after a 30-day comment period, will improve air quality in communities by reducing VOCs pollution. Colorado currently ranks among the nation’s worst violators of federal health standards due to elevated ozone.
The authorities said improvements, including installation of pressure monitors to detect excess pollution, would cut Kauffman’s emissions of VOCs by 424 tons a year.
Under the settlement, Kauffman would have to improve company operations and maintenance and ensure proper vapor control systems on storage tanks. Company crews would have to conduct monthly or quarterly inspections using infrared cameras to detect pollution.
A $1 million civil penalty would be paid to the federal and state governments.
Kauffman officials referred queries to a company attorney who couldn’t immediately be reached.
Federal officials declined to discuss their case, but issued statements.
“The EPA continues to enforce the Clean Air Act, and our partnership with the state continues to deliver cleaner, healthier air for Colorado’s communities,” EPA regional administrator Gregory Sopkin said.
Colorado health chief Jill Hunsaker Ryan also issued a statement: “Our laws and regulations exist to protect the health and well-being of everyone who calls Colorado home. This settlement demonstrates our commitment to holding companies accountable for their violations and taking the decisive steps necessary to minimize volatile organic compound emissions.”
Anti-fracking activists said this settlement shows that Colorado must take a tougher approach — financed by increased fees on companies.
“Colorado must do more to monitor pollution emissions from operators in the oil and gas industry. Industry cannot be allowed to self-monitor. We know the fox guarding the chicken house model just doesn’t work,” said Leslie Weise, a director of 350 Colorado.


thedenverpost--2020-01-22--City Council approves United Airlines for 24 more gates at DIA

On Tuesday night , the Denver City Council unanimously approved an amendment granting United Airlines access to 24 more gates at Denver International Airport .
“ It ’ s an unbelievable day for United and for Denver , ” said Steve Jaquith , vice president of the United Airlines ’ Denver branch .
Jaquith said that the expansion will allow United , which currently provides 164 nonstop destinations from DIA , to ramp up their service to more destinations .
“ Our 7,000 employees worked tirelessly for this day to be able to provide more service , ” he said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to their efforts that we can now provide more access to the United States and to the whole world.
” This expansion would allow United to increase departures at DIA from 500 to 700 per day by 2025 .
The amendment authorized 12 new gates on Concourse A — which are being added as part of the $ 1.5 billion expansion at DIA — 11 gates currently on that concourse and one new gate on Concourse B for United Airlines ’ use .
United currently leases gates across Concourses A , B and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consolidate their space in the airport .
United is DIA ’ s biggest airline carrier , encompassing 44 % of their traffic in 2019 .
The airport currently accommodates 50 million passengers per year , but with this gate expansion , DIA could serve up to 80 million passengers per year .

On Tuesday night, the Denver City Council unanimously approved an amendment granting United Airlines access to 24 more gates at Denver International Airport.
“It’s an unbelievable day for United and for Denver,” said Steve Jaquith , vice president of the United Airlines’ Denver branch.
Jaquith said that the expansion will allow United, which currently provides 164 nonstop destinations from DIA, to ramp up their service to more destinations.
“Our 7,000 employees worked tirelessly for this day to be able to provide more service,” he said. “It’s a testament to their efforts that we can now provide more access to the United States and to the whole world.”
This expansion would allow United to increase departures at DIA from 500 to 700 per day by 2025.
The amendment authorized 12 new gates on Concourse A — which are being added as part of the $1.5 billion expansion at DIA — 11 gates currently on that concourse and one new gate on Concourse B for United Airlines’ use. United currently leases gates across Concourses A, B and C and this will allow them to consolidate their space in the airport.
United is DIA’s biggest airline carrier, encompassing 44% of their traffic in 2019. The airport currently accommodates 64.5 million passengers per year, but with this gate expansion, DIA could serve up to 80 million passengers per year.
Story Updated 9:24 a.m., Jan. 22 to provide the correct number of passengers DIA accommodates annually.


thedenverpost--2020-01-22--Analysis: What led Nolan Arenado to feel “disrespected”? A confrontation last fall created rift that

Analysis: What led Nolan Arenado to feel “disrespected”? A confrontation last fall created rift that remains, sources say

The winter of Nolan Arenado ‘ s discontent took root last autumn .
Frustrated and disillusioned by the Rockies ’ 71-win season , the Rockies ’ all-star third baseman met with general manager Jeff Bridich shortly after the season ended and argued that the team needed to make aggressive moves in the offseason in order to improve .
But when Bridich told Arenado that the Rockies were largely going to stand pat this winter , he expressed his displeasure .
The conversation turned confrontational and soured the relationship , according to sources .
That relationship has not mended .
Feelings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Denver Post he was putting the brakes on any trade talk involving Arenado .
Teams that had shown interest in a possible trade included the St. Louis Cardinals , Chicago Cubs , Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers , according to sources .
“ With the season coming up and spring training on the horizon , we are going to start focusing on that , ” Bridich told The Post .
RELATED : Keeler : Nolan Arenado or Jeff Bridich , Dick Monfort ?
Who ’ s it gon na be ?
Shortly after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying he felt “ disrespected ” by Bridich .
“ I really don ’ t care what ’ s being said .
I just know that I feel disrespected over there , ” he said , adding , “ I ’ m not upset at the trade rumors .
There ’ s more to this than that.
” The “ more to this ” comment refers to the way he views he has been treated by Bridich .
The Rockies have not yet responded to Arenado ’ s comments .
Although Arenado declined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his deteriorating relationship with Bridich , multiple sources told The Post that Arenado feels like “ promises were broken ” after he signed an eight-year , $ 260 million contract last February .
At that point , Arenado believed the Rockies were going to make roster moves to further improve a team that made the playoffs in 2017 and 2018 .
That did not happen as the Rockies ’ skidded toward the bottom of the National League West in 2019 and followed up with a quiet offseason in which they have not made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t think we have a lot of flexibility next year of making some great big splash , ” owner Dick Monfort said at an end-of-season news conference .
“ Now that doesn ’ t mean that we can ’ t get creative and do some things that will help if the right deal comes along.
” The Rockies ’ 2019 total adjusted payroll , according to Spotrac , was a club-record $ 157.1 million .
Even with no big-league additions this winter , Colorado ’ s current payroll is $ 152.9 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kicks in after the 2020 season should give the Rockies more payroll power .
Arenado , however , is clearly worried about the team ’ s future .
“ Promises were made when Nolan signed his deal , and then , it was as if they were never discussed , ” said one source who is close to Arenado .
“ Nolan has become disillusioned with the focus and direction of the team.
” The Rockies , of course , see things differently , and according to sources were upset by Arenado ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season , especially after he had signed such a lucrative contract .
“ These guys have a great opportunity to show what they have and go into spring training with the upper hand , ” Arenado told The Athletic in September .
“ They should take every game seriously .
And I need to lead by example .
But it sucks that that ’ s what it feels like .
It feels like a rebuild.
” At the end-of-the-season news conference , Bridich and owner Dick Monfort were asked about “ It feels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ If we were truly in a rebuild , Nolan Arenado probably wouldn ’ t be here to make comments like that.
” Monfort said : “ I haven ’ t seen many rebuilds that start with signing the face of your franchise , your best player , to a $ 260 million contract.
” Arenado can opt out of his contract after the 2021 season when he ’ ll have $ 167 million remaining on his contract .
Bridich said in October that it was he , not Arenado , who pushed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bridich said it provided time for both sides to assess the deal and the club ’ s direction .
Arenado has said he does not want to be like former Rockies first baseman Todd Helton , who played his entire 17-year career with the team and got to the postseason just twice .
However , when the Rockies signed Arenado , they did not consider the opt-out clause to be a major problem .
“ If there ’ s a list of issues that we need to deal with , that is like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Monfort said .
“ So I don ’ t think any of us are really worried about it at this time.
” So what happens next ?
Although Arenado has yet to publicly ask for a trade , Monday ’ s developments could recharge a possible deal , despite what Bridich said .
But any trade involving Arenado would be complicated .
Not only does his contract contain an opt-out clause , Arenado also has a full no-trade provision in his contract , meaning he can give a thumbs-up or a thumbs-down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation is similar to that of the Miami Marlins , who traded star outfielder Giancarlo Stanton to the New York Yankees following Stanton ’ s NL MVP season in 2017 .
Stanton also had no-trade provisions and he quashed deals with the Cardinals and San Francisco Giants before agreeing to a trade to the Yankees .
Stanton had $ 265 million of the $ 295 million remaining on his contract .

The winter of Nolan Arenado‘s discontent took root last autumn.
Frustrated and disillusioned by the Rockies’ 71-win season, the Rockies’ all-star third baseman met with general manager Jeff Bridich shortly after the season ended and argued that the team needed to make aggressive moves in the offseason in order to improve. But when Bridich told Arenado that the Rockies were largely going to stand pat this winter, he expressed his displeasure.
The conversation turned confrontational and soured the relationship, according to sources. That relationship has not mended.
Feelings boiled over Monday when Bridich told The Denver Post he was putting the brakes on any trade talk involving Arenado. Teams that had shown interest in a possible trade included the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, Atlanta Braves and Texas Rangers, according to sources.
“With the season coming up and spring training on the horizon, we are going to start focusing on that,” Bridich told The Post.
RELATED: Keeler: Nolan Arenado or Jeff Bridich, Dick Monfort? Who’s it gonna be?
Shortly after the story broke, Arenado responded, saying he felt “disrespected” by Bridich.
“I really don’t care what’s being said. I just know that I feel disrespected over there,” he said, adding, “I’m not upset at the trade rumors. There’s more to this than that.”
The “more to this” comment refers to the way he views he has been treated by Bridich. The Rockies have not yet responded to Arenado’s comments.
Although Arenado declined to talk publicly about the details of his deteriorating relationship with Bridich, multiple sources told The Post that Arenado feels like “promises were broken” after he signed an eight-year, $260 million contract last February. At that point, Arenado believed the Rockies were going to make roster moves to further improve a team that made the playoffs in 2017 and 2018.
That did not happen as the Rockies’ skidded toward the bottom of the National League West in 2019 and followed up with a quiet offseason in which they have not made a significant free-agent signing.
“I don’t think we have a lot of flexibility next year of making some great big splash,” owner Dick Monfort said at an end-of-season news conference. “Now that doesn’t mean that we can’t get creative and do some things that will help if the right deal comes along.”
The Rockies’ 2019 total adjusted payroll, according to Spotrac, was a club-record $157.1 million. Even with no big-league additions this winter, Colorado’s current payroll is $152.9 million. A new television contract that kicks in after the 2020 season should give the Rockies more payroll power.
Arenado, however, is clearly worried about the team’s future.
“Promises were made when Nolan signed his deal, and then, it was as if they were never discussed,” said one source who is close to Arenado. “Nolan has become disillusioned with the focus and direction of the team.”
The Rockies, of course, see things differently, and according to sources were upset by Arenado’s public criticism of the team last season, especially after he had signed such a lucrative contract.
“These guys have a great opportunity to show what they have and go into spring training with the upper hand,” Arenado told The Athletic in September. “They should take every game seriously. And I need to lead by example. But it sucks that that’s what it feels like. It feels like a rebuild.”
At the end-of-the-season news conference, Bridich and owner Dick Monfort were asked about “It feels like a rebuild.”
Bridich said: “If we were truly in a rebuild, Nolan Arenado probably wouldn’t be here to make comments like that.”
Monfort said: “I haven’t seen many rebuilds that start with signing the face of your franchise, your best player, to a $260 million contract.”
Arenado can opt out of his contract after the 2021 season when he’ll have $167 million remaining on his contract. Bridich said in October that it was he, not Arenado, who pushed for the opt-out clause during negotiations. Bridich said it provided time for both sides to assess the deal and the club’s direction.
Arenado has said he does not want to be like former Rockies first baseman Todd Helton, who played his entire 17-year career with the team and got to the postseason just twice. However, when the Rockies signed Arenado, they did not consider the opt-out clause to be a major problem.
“If there’s a list of issues that we need to deal with, that is like No. 775 on the page,” Monfort said. “So I don’t think any of us are really worried about it at this time.”
So what happens next? Although Arenado has yet to publicly ask for a trade, Monday’s developments could recharge a possible deal, despite what Bridich said.
But any trade involving Arenado would be complicated. Not only does his contract contain an opt-out clause, Arenado also has a full no-trade provision in his contract, meaning he can give a thumbs-up or a thumbs-down to any deal.
Colorado’s situation is similar to that of the Miami Marlins, who traded star outfielder Giancarlo Stanton to the New York Yankees following Stanton’s NL MVP season in 2017. Stanton also had no-trade provisions and he quashed deals with the Cardinals and San Francisco Giants before agreeing to a trade to the Yankees. Stanton had $265 million of the $295 million remaining on his contract.


thedenverpost--2020-01-22--CU Buffs football notes: Mel Tucker praises behind-the-scenes work in recruiting

Colorado football coaches are back on the road this week , putting the finishing touches on the 2020 recruiting class , while also focusing on those in 2021 and 2022 .
While it is the coaches who make the visits and do what they can to bring top players to Boulder , Buffaloes head coach Mel Tucker said it ’ s the behind the scenes work that makes the process go .
“ I thought the staff did a really nice job , ” Tucker said .
Tucker highlighted Cymone George , the Buffs ’ director of football recruiting who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with recruiting ; and Geoff Martzen , who helps to organize the travel and visit schedules .
There are several other people on staff who play key roles , as well .
“ We were very efficient , ” Tucker said of the process to put together the 2020 class .
“ There was a lot of work put in to make sure we maximized our opportunities , whether they were on-campus visits , unofficial visits , official visits .
Going on the road during the season , when we use those evaluation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really good job mapping stuff out .
We hit the road recruiting and we were humming pretty good .
“ All the pre-work , our travel was super organized.
” • CU basketball drops to No .
23 but still ties program rankings mark • AP college basketball poll : CU Buffs slide down rankings after loss to Arizona • Howell : Some of Mel Tucker ’ s biggest recruiting wins this winter have come from within • Practice priority for CU Buffs basketball : Recovering edge on the glass With a full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compiled a recruiting class that ranks among the top 40 in the country by 247Sports.com and Rivals.com .
“ It ’ s a strong class , ” Tucker said .
“ All these guys we signed we feel like are going to be able to come in and compete right away for playing time .
“ We had at least a year – with some of these guys longer than that – to evaluate them and recruit them and we were very deliberate about the guys that we targeted and the guys that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were all guys that we were all-in on and happy to get them.
” Time will tell if the class pans out on the field , but the efforts of the staff have produced immediate results .
“ You probably have to look back maybe three years from now on how good of a class it really is , but I thought the staff did a really nice job , ” Tucker said .
Several of CU ’ s 2020 signees were heavily pursued by other Power 5 programs , even down to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were submitted .
With the regular signing period set to begin on Feb. 5 , the Buffs have more battles upcoming .
Running back Ashaad Clayton , from New Orleans , committed to CU in November , but visited Kansas in December and has a visit lined up with Florida this week .
LSU is also on Clayton ’ s radar .
The Buffs are also trying to sign safety William Anglen , from Cleveland .
He is set to visit CU this weekend , but is also considering Cincinnati .
Tucker is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , after working at Georgia , Alabama , Ohio State and other schools over the years .
“ It ’ s not over until it ’ s over , ” Tucker said .
“ That ’ s what happens when you ’ re recruiting guys that other people want .
“ I like it because it ’ s competition and I like to recruit .
I know that ’ s how you improve your team and get to where you want to get to , ultimately , at the championship level .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really good players.
” With Davion Taylor graduating , rising sophomore Mark Perry is slated to take over the star position in the Buffs defense .
As a true freshman last season , Perry learned the position from coaches and Taylor , while getting his feet wet on the field , recording 12 tackles , 1.5 sacks and three pass breakups in 196 defensive snaps .
“ The development of Mark Perry at the star position was huge for us , ” Tucker said .
“ Of the guys that are coming back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can play the position effectively.
” That won ’ t be Perry ’ s only job next season , however .
Signed as a safety , he ’ ll add those duties , as well .
“ He ’ s going to have to learn two positions , ” Tucker said .
The Buffs lack depth at safety , but do return starter Derrion Rakestraw , who will be a senior .
Former cornerback Trey Udoffia is a senior , while Isaiah Lewis is a junior , but they combined for just 22 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lewis ) .
True freshman Toren Pittman is the only newcomer listed as a safety , but Tucker said , “ Some of these guys that on paper have ‘ corner ” behind their name are probably going to be playing safety .
Which one of these guys ?
I ’ m not sure yet , but those are some decisions we ’ re going to have to make.
” Walk-on Brendan Pyne , a graduate transfer from Brown , could factor in at safety or star .
On Tuesday , the Pac-12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an internet-based streaming service .
The Pac-12 Network will be part of Vidgo ’ s “ core ” package .
The six regional channels will be available on the “ plus ” package .

Colorado football coaches are back on the road this week, putting the finishing touches on the 2020 recruiting class, while also focusing on those in 2021 and 2022.
While it is the coaches who make the visits and do what they can to bring top players to Boulder, Buffaloes head coach Mel Tucker said it’s the behind the scenes work that makes the process go.
“I thought the staff did a really nice job,” Tucker said.
Tucker highlighted Cymone George, the Buffs’ director of football recruiting who handles a lot of the on-campus details with recruiting; and Geoff Martzen, who helps to organize the travel and visit schedules. There are several other people on staff who play key roles, as well.
“We were very efficient,” Tucker said of the process to put together the 2020 class. “There was a lot of work put in to make sure we maximized our opportunities, whether they were on-campus visits, unofficial visits, official visits. Going on the road during the season, when we use those evaluation days. I thought Geoff did a really good job mapping stuff out. We hit the road recruiting and we were humming pretty good.
“All the pre-work, our travel was super organized.”
With a full team of people contributing, CU has compiled a recruiting class that ranks among the top 40 in the country by 247Sports.com and Rivals.com.
“It’s a strong class,” Tucker said. “All these guys we signed we feel like are going to be able to come in and compete right away for playing time.
“We had at least a year – with some of these guys longer than that – to evaluate them and recruit them and we were very deliberate about the guys that we targeted and the guys that we ultimately ended up signing. They were all guys that we were all-in on and happy to get them.”
Time will tell if the class pans out on the field, but the efforts of the staff have produced immediate results.
“You probably have to look back maybe three years from now on how good of a class it really is, but I thought the staff did a really nice job,” Tucker said.
Recruiting battles
Several of CU’s 2020 signees were heavily pursued by other Power 5 programs, even down to the final hours before letters of intent were submitted.
With the regular signing period set to begin on Feb. 5, the Buffs have more battles upcoming. Running back Ashaad Clayton, from New Orleans, committed to CU in November, but visited Kansas in December and has a visit lined up with Florida this week. LSU is also on Clayton’s radar.
The Buffs are also trying to sign safety William Anglen, from Cleveland. He is set to visit CU this weekend, but is also considering Cincinnati.
Tucker is used to heated recruiting battles, though, after working at Georgia, Alabama, Ohio State and other schools over the years.
“It’s not over until it’s over,” Tucker said. “That’s what happens when you’re recruiting guys that other people want.
“I like it because it’s competition and I like to recruit. I know that’s how you improve your team and get to where you want to get to, ultimately, at the championship level. You’ve got to have lots of really good players.”
Extra work for Perry
With Davion Taylor graduating, rising sophomore Mark Perry is slated to take over the star position in the Buffs defense.
As a true freshman last season, Perry learned the position from coaches and Taylor, while getting his feet wet on the field, recording 12 tackles, 1.5 sacks and three pass breakups in 196 defensive snaps.
“The development of Mark Perry at the star position was huge for us,” Tucker said. “Of the guys that are coming back, he’s shown that he can play the position effectively.”
That won’t be Perry’s only job next season, however. Signed as a safety, he’ll add those duties, as well.
“He’s going to have to learn two positions,” Tucker said.
The Buffs lack depth at safety, but do return starter Derrion Rakestraw, who will be a senior. Former cornerback Trey Udoffia is a senior, while Isaiah Lewis is a junior, but they combined for just 22 defensive snaps last season (all by Lewis).
True freshman Toren Pittman is the only newcomer listed as a safety, but Tucker said, “Some of these guys that on paper have ‘corner” behind their name are probably going to be playing safety. Which one of these guys? I’m not sure yet, but those are some decisions we’re going to have to make.”
Walk-on Brendan Pyne, a graduate transfer from Brown, could factor in at safety or star.
Notable
On Tuesday, the Pac-12 Networks announced a distribution partnership with Vidgo, an internet-based streaming service. The Pac-12 Network will be part of Vidgo’s “core” package. The six regional channels will be available on the “plus” package.


thedenverpost--2020-01-22--Ferguson: Expectations getting higher as Tiger Woods gets older

SAN DIEGO — The expectations seem to get higher even as Tiger Woods gets older .
Isn ’ t it supposed to be the other way around ?
Of course , it doesn ’ t quell expectations when Woods is the Masters champion .
Just the image of that red shirt under a green jacket was enough to believe he could win at least three more majors to catch Jack Nicklaus .
And then there ’ s Japan .
That ’ s where Woods returned from a two-month break following maintenance surgery on his left knee and went wire-to-wire in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 82nd victory on the PGA Tour , tying the record that Sam Snead had to himself for the previous 69 years .
Need more ?
Look no further than Royal Melbourne , where Woods split time as Presidents Cup captain and player , and he won all three matches he played .
He was particularly crisp on a course that demanded precision .
And now he returns at Torrey Pines , where he has won eight times in his pro career , including the 2008 U.S. Open .
Woods showed up Tuesday morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
GolfTV , with which he has an endorsement deal , was there to document Woods tying his shoes at his car and walking through the parking lot .
The next victory is for the record , if not now then soon .
“ Just trying to get to 83 … I really don ’ t think about it because I have to think about all the things I need to do to win the tournaments , ” Woods said .
“ There ’ s so many different shots I have to play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way around the golf course , that I ’ m more consumed in that.
” Good health is tantamount to good play , particularly for a guy who turned 44 last month and has had more back surgeries ( 4 ) than victories ( 3 ) in the last five years .
And as much resiliency as Woods has shown in returning from so many dark times brought on by so much uncertainty , there is a practical side to him .
It ’ s never easy to win , no matter how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way .
One of the more telling moments was at this tournament in 2008 .
Woods made birdie on the 18th hole of the tougher South Course at Torrey to open with a 67 .
John Wood , at the time caddying for Hunter Mahan in the group ahead , stayed behind to watch and said , “ He just won two tournaments with one round.
” Woods won by eight shots that week , and the U.S. Open that summer .
He was 32 , still five months away from surgery to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ harder than ever , mainly because of his age .
The competition is younger and deeper than ever .
Woods plays Thursday alongside Collin Morikawa , who wasn ’ t born until Woods already had three PGA Tour victories .
“ When I was younger , I had more good days than bad , feeling-wise , ” Woods said .
“ Now at 44 , I feel more bad days than I do good days .
I think all of you at my age or older can relate to that .
I think @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being an older athlete .
You see it all the time at the Masters.
” He mentioned Fred Couples and Bernhard Langer , who were in the mix at Augusta National well beyond 50 , but faded at some point on the weekend .
“ It ’ s hard to put it together for all four days as you get older , ” Woods said .
“ It ’ s just harder.
” Woods wasn ’ t that old when he won his fifth Masters in April , but given his health ordeals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He didn ’ t fade — he ’ s Tiger Woods , and they ’ re not — though he needed help for the first time in his 15 major wins .
“ I ’ ve been able to have won a few tournaments since I ’ ve made my comeback , and hopefully , I win some more , ” he said .
Woods spoke on the day Nicklaus turned 80 .
Of Nicklaus ’ record 18 majors , what stands out is the last one in 1986 at the Masters .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ story by Tom McCollister in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution , who assessed his chances by writing that “ Nicklaus is gone , done .
He just doesn ’ t have the game anymore.
” Only two players older than 46 had ever won a major , none since then .
So it was a surprise .
Would anyone be surprised if Woods repeated at Augusta National ?
Probably not .
Winning anywhere again to set a new standard of winning on the PGA Tour ?
That ’ s practically a given , isn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ willing to look that far ahead .
Even when his biggest challenge is time , there is no urgency about him .
He chose not to look back at time lost when he was putting his personal life back together after his notorious divorce , and then putting his body back together from leg and back injuries .
In the decade after Woods won his 14th major at Torrey Pines , he didn ’ t even play in 14 majors .
And there was a time not long ago he wasn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Yes , there were a number of years where I didn ’ t compete and didn ’ t play , so those were some missed opportunities , ” he said .
“ But granted , I ’ m playing again now so these are blessed opportunities .
I didn ’ t think I would have these.
” Young or old , that doesn ’ t change .

SAN DIEGO — The expectations seem to get higher even as Tiger Woods gets older.
Isn’t it supposed to be the other way around?
Of course, it doesn’t quell expectations when Woods is the Masters champion. Just the image of that red shirt under a green jacket was enough to believe he could win at least three more majors to catch Jack Nicklaus.
And then there’s Japan. That’s where Woods returned from a two-month break following maintenance surgery on his left knee and went wire-to-wire in the Zozo Championship. It was his 82nd victory on the PGA Tour, tying the record that Sam Snead had to himself for the previous 69 years.
Need more? Look no further than Royal Melbourne, where Woods split time as Presidents Cup captain and player, and he won all three matches he played. He was particularly crisp on a course that demanded precision.
And now he returns at Torrey Pines, where he has won eight times in his pro career, including the 2008 U.S. Open.
Woods showed up Tuesday morning in the drizzle of a gray sky. GolfTV, with which he has an endorsement deal, was there to document Woods tying his shoes at his car and walking through the parking lot.
The next victory is for the record, if not now then soon.
“Just trying to get to 83 … I really don’t think about it because I have to think about all the things I need to do to win the tournaments,” Woods said. “There’s so many different shots I have to play, and strategy, and thinking my way around the golf course, that I’m more consumed in that.”
Good health is tantamount to good play, particularly for a guy who turned 44 last month and has had more back surgeries (4) than victories (3) in the last five years.
And as much resiliency as Woods has shown in returning from so many dark times brought on by so much uncertainty, there is a practical side to him. It’s never easy to win, no matter how often he once made it look that way.
One of the more telling moments was at this tournament in 2008. Woods made birdie on the 18th hole of the tougher South Course at Torrey to open with a 67. John Wood, at the time caddying for Hunter Mahan in the group ahead, stayed behind to watch and said, “He just won two tournaments with one round.” Woods won by eight shots that week, and the U.S. Open that summer.
He was 32, still five months away from surgery to rebuild his left knee.
Winning is harder than ever, mainly because of his age. The competition is younger and deeper than ever. Woods plays Thursday alongside Collin Morikawa, who wasn’t born until Woods already had three PGA Tour victories.
“When I was younger, I had more good days than bad, feeling-wise,” Woods said. “Now at 44, I feel more bad days than I do good days. I think all of you at my age or older can relate to that. I think that’s the hardest part about being an older athlete. You see it all the time at the Masters.”
He mentioned Fred Couples and Bernhard Langer, who were in the mix at Augusta National well beyond 50, but faded at some point on the weekend.
“It’s hard to put it together for all four days as you get older,” Woods said. “It’s just harder.”
Woods wasn’t that old when he won his fifth Masters in April, but given his health ordeals, he might feel that way. He didn’t fade — he’s Tiger Woods, and they’re not — though he needed help for the first time in his 15 major wins.
“I’ve been able to have won a few tournaments since I’ve made my comeback, and hopefully, I win some more,” he said.
Woods spoke on the day Nicklaus turned 80. Of Nicklaus’ record 18 majors, what stands out is the last one in 1986 at the Masters. One tale from that week was a story by Tom McCollister in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, who assessed his chances by writing that “Nicklaus is gone, done. He just doesn’t have the game anymore.”
Only two players older than 46 had ever won a major, none since then. So it was a surprise.
Would anyone be surprised if Woods repeated at Augusta National? Probably not. Winning anywhere again to set a new standard of winning on the PGA Tour? That’s practically a given, isn’t it?
Woods isn’t willing to look that far ahead. Even when his biggest challenge is time, there is no urgency about him. He chose not to look back at time lost when he was putting his personal life back together after his notorious divorce, and then putting his body back together from leg and back injuries.
In the decade after Woods won his 14th major at Torrey Pines, he didn’t even play in 14 majors. And there was a time not long ago he wasn’t sure he would play again.
“Yes, there were a number of years where I didn’t compete and didn’t play, so those were some missed opportunities,” he said. “But granted, I’m playing again now so these are blessed opportunities. I didn’t think I would have these.”
With opportunities come expectations.
Young or old, that doesn’t change.


thedenverpost--2020-01-23--The birds are coming (or are already here). Here’s how to see them.

Colorado is home to more than 400 species of birds and is located in the middle of the Central Flyway — which means it ’ s a stopover for migrating birds from mid-February until May .
Right now , bald eagles that have wintered in Colorado are pairing up , and migration season starts soon .
There ’ s no better time to get out your birder ’ s checklist and plan some outings .
• It helps if you don ’ t mind getting up and out in the dark : Sunrise is the best viewing time , although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Layer on the clothing ( dark or muted colors are recommended since bright colors can distract birds ) .
• Remember that bird watching often involves standing or sitting still for long periods of time , so warm boots and socks are a must .
• A pair of binoculars gets you a much better look at the birds .
• If you want great photographs , take a camera with a telephoto lens .
It is tough to get a good bird photo on a cellphone .
• Bird books or guides @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to an event or festival there will be plenty of people to help you identify what you ’ re looking at .
Birders are happy to share their knowledge .
( I ’ ve been the beneficiary several times . )
No idea where to go ?
Not to worry .
We ’ ve sorted through a multitude of bird-watching resources and events to offer up a handful of noteworthy options for novice watchers , general wildlife lovers or seasoned birders .
And you don ’ t have to spend a lot , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are free or require only state park admission fees ( $ 8 to $ 10 per vehicle per day ) .
First up ( and widely recommended in the birding world ) , go see America ’ s bird , the bald eagle .
If you hurry , you can see a lot of them in a few places .
An estimated 1,200 bald eagles winter in Colorado thanks to conservation efforts and protections that have helped restore their numbers .
Barr Lake State Park near Brighton is among the best and most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Eagles can also be found at John Martin Reservoir State Park near Lamar in southeastern Colorado , and you might catch a glimpse of them — along with American peregrine falcons and white pelicans — at Eleven Mile or Spinney Mountain state parks .
Two eagle events are coming up on Feb. 1 : the annual Bald Eagle Festival at Barr Lake and Eagle Days at the Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center ‘ s Raptor Center near Lake Pueblo State Park .
Most eagles will move out of the wintering grounds soon as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to William Bevil , communications manager for the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies .
A pair has been recorded nesting at Barr Lake since 1986 , with the first eaglets hatched in 1989 .
It takes about eight months to raise the hatchlings , so you can return to the park repeatedly to watch the progress — with a good pair of binoculars .
Experts estimate 100 to 150 pairs of bald eagles nest in Colorado each year , and if you miss them this year , they ’ ll be back in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out the state bird , the lark bunting , on the Eastern Plains .
Bevil suggests Pawnee National Grassland in northeastern Colorado , where you can see many other bird species as well and perhaps even the more rare mountain plover .
Or , head to the 14th annual Mountain Plover Festival April 24-26 in Karval .
Bevil recommends this event because of the community involvement , which includes homestays , community meals and visits to private land .
It is one of the pricier festivals , but the $ 250 registration fee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Beginning birders can check out the High Plains Snow Goose Festival Feb. 6-9 in Lamar because it offers heritage tours that combine bird watching with learning about southeastern Colorado .
The festival and many lectures are free , but there is a fee for the tours and banquet .
Festival director Jessica Medina said hundreds of people come to the area to see huge flocks of snow geese , and many who are more interested in the history of region come for the tours .
That ’ s true for sandhill crane @ @ @ @ @ @ @ events at the Monte Vista Crane Festival in March sell out quickly , but hundreds of people travel to the San Luis Valley over several weeks just to watch the cranes coming in during the evening and flying out at dawn .
Cranes can also be spotted near Eckert and around the nesting areas at Steamboat Lake State Park .
Bevil says no birding list is complete without a visit to a sage grouse “ lek , ” a patch of ground used for a mating display .
You can head to Gunnison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more formal tour for the related greater prairie chicken between March 20 and April 19 with the Wray Chamber of Commerce .
The Wray tours require a Friday evening orientation followed by a trip to a viewing trailer the following morning to watch a mating dance .
One more suggestion for that birding bucket list : Visit a banding station this spring or in the fall .
There , you ’ ll see how organizations track and collect data on migratory routes , lifespans and characteristics of birds .
The Bird Conservancy of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with partners .
The one at Chatfield State Park will operate April 27-May 31 this year .
Registration is required for weekend visits and for groups .
For details , go to birdconservancy.org .
• Eckert Crane Days , March-April .
No scheduled activities ; come view the cranes .
• International Migratory Bird Day , second Saturday in May in the United States and Canada .
A partnership of CPW , Great Outdoors Colorado and nonprofits provides information and driving routes to sites for viewing birds and other wildlife .
Guides can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Bird Conservancy of the Rockies promotes conservation of birds and habitats through science , education and land conservancy ; offers resources and school and community events .
Audubon Rockies , the regional office of the National Audubon Society , provides education , advocacy and on-the-ground conservation , and offers resources and programs .
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter , The Adventurist , to get outdoors news sent straight to your inbox .

Colorado is home to more than 400 species of birds and is located in the middle of the Central Flyway — which means it’s a stopover for migrating birds from mid-February until May.
Right now, bald eagles that have wintered in Colorado are pairing up, and migration season starts soon. There’s no better time to get out your birder’s checklist and plan some outings.
Some tips:
It helps if you don’t mind getting up and out in the dark: Sunrise is the best viewing time, although sunset hours work, too.
Layer on the clothing (dark or muted colors are recommended since bright colors can distract birds).
Remember that bird watching often involves standing or sitting still for long periods of time, so warm boots and socks are a must.
A pair of binoculars gets you a much better look at the birds.
If you want great photographs, take a camera with a telephoto lens. It is tough to get a good bird photo on a cellphone.
Bird books or guides are helpful, but if you go to an event or festival there will be plenty of people to help you identify what you’re looking at. Birders are happy to share their knowledge. (I’ve been the beneficiary several times.)
No idea where to go? Not to worry. We’ve sorted through a multitude of bird-watching resources and events to offer up a handful of noteworthy options for novice watchers, general wildlife lovers or seasoned birders. And you don’t have to spend a lot, either: Many festivals and viewing events are free or require only state park admission fees ($8 to $10 per vehicle per day).
Bald Eagles
First up (and widely recommended in the birding world), go see America’s bird, the bald eagle. If you hurry, you can see a lot of them in a few places.
An estimated 1,200 bald eagles winter in Colorado thanks to conservation efforts and protections that have helped restore their numbers. Barr Lake State Park near Brighton is among the best and most widely known spots to find them.
Eagles can also be found at John Martin Reservoir State Park near Lamar in southeastern Colorado, and you might catch a glimpse of them — along with American peregrine falcons and white pelicans — at Eleven Mile or Spinney Mountain state parks.
Two eagle events are coming up on Feb. 1: the annual Bald Eagle Festival at Barr Lake and Eagle Days at the Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center‘s Raptor Center near Lake Pueblo State Park.
Most eagles will move out of the wintering grounds soon as dominant pairs stake their ground, according to William Bevil, communications manager for the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies. A pair has been recorded nesting at Barr Lake since 1986, with the first eaglets hatched in 1989. It takes about eight months to raise the hatchlings, so you can return to the park repeatedly to watch the progress — with a good pair of binoculars.
Experts estimate 100 to 150 pairs of bald eagles nest in Colorado each year, and if you miss them this year, they’ll be back in late fall.
Other bids
Next up, search out the state bird, the lark bunting, on the Eastern Plains. Bevil suggests Pawnee National Grassland in northeastern Colorado, where you can see many other bird species as well and perhaps even the more rare mountain plover.
Or, head to the 14th annual Mountain Plover Festival April 24-26 in Karval. Bevil recommends this event because of the community involvement, which includes homestays, community meals and visits to private land. It is one of the pricier festivals, but the $250 registration fee includes all events, meals and activities.
Beginning birders can check out the High Plains Snow Goose Festival Feb. 6-9 in Lamar because it offers heritage tours that combine bird watching with learning about southeastern Colorado. The festival and many lectures are free, but there is a fee for the tours and banquet. Festival director Jessica Medina said hundreds of people come to the area to see huge flocks of snow geese, and many who are more interested in the history of region come for the tours.
That’s true for sandhill crane watching as well. Special tours and events at the Monte Vista Crane Festival in March sell out quickly, but hundreds of people travel to the San Luis Valley over several weeks just to watch the cranes coming in during the evening and flying out at dawn. Cranes can also be spotted near Eckert and around the nesting areas at Steamboat Lake State Park.
Bevil says no birding list is complete without a visit to a sage grouse “lek,” a patch of ground used for a mating display. You can head to Gunnison this spring for that or find a more formal tour for the related greater prairie chicken between March 20 and April 19 with the Wray Chamber of Commerce. The Wray tours require a Friday evening orientation followed by a trip to a viewing trailer the following morning to watch a mating dance.
One more suggestion for that birding bucket list: Visit a banding station this spring or in the fall. There, you’ll see how organizations track and collect data on migratory routes, lifespans and characteristics of birds. The Bird Conservancy of the Rockies runs the stations in conjunction with partners. The one at Chatfield State Park will operate April 27-May 31 this year. Registration is required for weekend visits and for groups. For details, go to birdconservancy.org.
Bird Watching Events
Birding Resources
A partnership of CPW, Great Outdoors Colorado and nonprofits provides information and driving routes to sites for viewing birds and other wildlife. Guides can be viewed or downloaded from the website.
The Bird Conservancy of the Rockies promotes conservation of birds and habitats through science, education and land conservancy; offers resources and school and community events.
Audubon Rockies, the regional office of the National Audubon Society, provides education, advocacy and on-the-ground conservation, and offers resources and programs.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The Adventurist, to get outdoors news sent straight to your inbox.


thedenverpost--2020-01-23--Denver weather: Mild in Denver while up to 4 more inches of new snow falls in mountains

Mild temperatures are expected in the Denver metro area Thursday while another blanket of snow is possible in the mountains @ @ @ @ @ said .
The high temperature in Denver is expected to reach 48 degrees , according @ @ @ @ @ in Boulder .
The mountains could get between 1 and 4 inches of new snow @ @ @ @ @ Northwesterly winds are expected to gust up to 35 mph on the Eastern Plains , @ @ @ @ @ warm up on Friday and the weekend with high temperatures of 53 degrees on Friday @ @ @ @ @ Sunday , the NWS said .
On Monday , there is a chance for rain @ @ @ @ @ Snow is possible Monday night and on Tuesday , the weather service said .

Mild temperatures are expected in the Denver metro area Thursday while another blanket of snow is possible in the mountains, national weather service forecasters said.
The high temperature in Denver is expected to reach 48 degrees, according to the National Weather Service in Boulder.
The mountains could get between 1 and 4 inches of new snow, the NWS said.
Northwesterly winds are expected to gust up to 35 mph on the Eastern Plains, forecasters said.
Temperatures should warm up on Friday and the weekend with high temperatures of 53 degrees on Friday and Saturday and 58 on Sunday, the NWS said.
On Monday, there is a chance for rain late in the morning. Snow is possible Monday night and on Tuesday, the weather service said.


thedenverpost--2020-01-23--Raiders drop Oakland for good — they’re now the Las Vegas Raiders

The Las Vegas Raiders were born Wednesday and the Oakland Raiders are history .
Raiders owner Mark Davis , joined by Nevada Gov .
Steve Sisolak as well as some current Raiders players and alumni , made the change of the team name official in a ceremony at partially-built Allegiant Field .
“ The Raiders were born in Oakland and played 13 seasons in L.A .
Both cities will always be part of our DNA , ” Davis said in an event that was live-streamed on the club ’ s website .
“ But today we begin a new chapter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Jan. 22 , 2020 , we are now the Las Vegas Raiders .
And today , Las Vegas officially becomes our Nation ’ s capitol.
” The Raiders were laying the groundwork for the change last week , removing the name “ Oakland ” from their Alameda facility as well as their Twitter handle .
“ Las Vegas ” was added on Twitter Wednesday .
The club will soon sell licensed gear with “ Las Vegas ” on it and will be identified as the Las Vegas Raiders in future events such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place in Las Vegas ) and the NFL scouting combine .
Current players who attended the event were quarterback Derek Carr , offensive tackle Trent Brown , tight end Darren Waller , safety Johnathan Abram , defensive tackle Maurice Hurst , linebacker Marquel Lee , long-snapper Trent Sieg and punter A.J .
Cole .
Davis , noting the Raiders ’ contributions to the community , announced a $ 500,000 donation from the club to the Nevada Department of Agriculture Meal Service Program which gives children breakfast and lunch at schools .
While there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and potential issues completing the roof in the event of too much rain , Gov .
Sisolak said , “ It ’ s going to come in ahead of time , I know that.
” The Raiders negotiated a two-year lease extension before the 2019 season with an option for a second year .
Davis , in addressing the construction workers on site , closed with the following remark : • Von Miller on Drew Lock , John Elway and what he would do if he played offense with the Broncos • Broncos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to club , source says • Senior Bowl Journal : Shelby Harris changes agents ahead of trip to free agency • Broncos GM John Elway on Pat Shurmur : “ It ’ s not a total overhaul of the offense ” and value of attending Senior Bowl “ Nothing ’ s less important in life than the score at halftime , ” Davis said .
“ We ’ ve got to finish this stadium safe and in the Raider way , and I know you guys are going to get that done .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ our hearts and here we are baby , the Raiders , Las Vegas.
” With their new practice stadium in Henderson , Nevada , still under construction , the Raiders will continue their offseason at their Alameda facility .
The conditioning program and voluntary and mandatory minicamps will be held there as well as being the team headquarters for the draft .
If all goes according to plan , the Raiders leave Alameda for training camp in Napa in late July and when camp breaks , leave for Las Vegas for good .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oakland on Dec. 15 , losing 20-16 to the Jacksonville Jaguars , and their final game as the “ Oakland ” Raiders on the road on Dec. 30 against the Denver Broncos , losing 16-15 .

The Las Vegas Raiders were born Wednesday and the Oakland Raiders are history.
Raiders owner Mark Davis, joined by Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak as well as some current Raiders players and alumni, made the change of the team name official in a ceremony at partially-built Allegiant Field.
“The Raiders were born in Oakland and played 13 seasons in L.A. Both cities will always be part of our DNA,” Davis said in an event that was live-streamed on the club’s website. “But today we begin a new chapter in our storied history. For today, Jan. 22, 2020, we are now the Las Vegas Raiders. And today, Las Vegas officially becomes our Nation’s capitol.”
The Raiders were laying the groundwork for the change last week, removing the name “Oakland” from their Alameda facility as well as their Twitter handle. “Las Vegas” was added on Twitter Wednesday.
Staking our claim. Raiders players from the past and present help make it official. pic.twitter.com/3xvygRQUzv — Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) January 22, 2020
The club will soon sell licensed gear with “Las Vegas” on it and will be identified as the Las Vegas Raiders in future events such as the NFL draft (which takes place in Las Vegas) and the NFL scouting combine.
Current players who attended the event were quarterback Derek Carr, offensive tackle Trent Brown, tight end Darren Waller, safety Johnathan Abram, defensive tackle Maurice Hurst, linebacker Marquel Lee, long-snapper Trent Sieg and punter A.J. Cole.
Raiders alumni on stage included Steve Wisniewski, Marcel Reece, Napoleon McCallum and Jim Plunkett.
Davis, noting the Raiders’ contributions to the community, announced a $500,000 donation from the club to the Nevada Department of Agriculture Meal Service Program which gives children breakfast and lunch at schools.
While there have been reports of being behind schedule and potential issues completing the roof in the event of too much rain, Gov. Sisolak said, “It’s going to come in ahead of time, I know that.”
The Raiders negotiated a two-year lease extension before the 2019 season with an option for a second year.
Davis, in addressing the construction workers on site, closed with the following remark:
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With their new practice stadium in Henderson, Nevada, still under construction, the Raiders will continue their offseason at their Alameda facility. The conditioning program and voluntary and mandatory minicamps will be held there as well as being the team headquarters for the draft.
If all goes according to plan, the Raiders leave Alameda for training camp in Napa in late July and when camp breaks, leave for Las Vegas for good.
The Raiders played their last game in Oakland on Dec. 15, losing 20-16 to the Jacksonville Jaguars, and their final game as the “Oakland” Raiders on the road on Dec. 30 against the Denver Broncos, losing 16-15.


thedenverpost--2020-01-23--Top Chef’s season 17 all stars announced, with a couple of Colorado connections

Everyone ’ s favorite reality cooking show — I said “ cooking , ” so “ The Great British Baking Show ” doesn ’ t count !
— returns March 19 with an all-star cast .
Bravo ’ s “ Top Chef ” is returning for its 17th season , taking place in Los Angeles and with a cast of cheftestants who devotees will recognize from previous years .
While Colorado isn ’ t getting too much love this season , fans should recognize one contestant from Season 15 , which took place around the Centennial State : Joe Sasto @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Season 17 .
And Gregory Gourdet , the “ Top Chef ” Season 12 runner-up , makes a comeback this year .
Gourdet is based in Portland but operated an outpost of his Departure restaurant for two years in Denver until it closed last March .
Here ’ s the rest of the Season 17 “ Top Chef ” cast , along with where their season was filmed and where they are based : • Jennifer Carroll ( Season 6 : Las Vegas , Season 8 : All Stars , and Last Chance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Penn.
, and Washington , D.C. • Angelo Sosa ( Season 7 : Washington D.C. and Season 8 : All Stars New York ) , San Diego , Calif .
The new season premieres March 19 at 8 p.m. on Bravo .
Incidentally , on that same day , the first “ Top Chef ” Food & Wine Festival kicks off at Universal Studios Hollywood .
Subscribe to our new food newsletter , Stuffed , to get Denver food and drink news sent straight to your inbox .

Everyone’s favorite reality cooking show — I said “cooking,” so “The Great British Baking Show” doesn’t count! — returns March 19 with an all-star cast.
Bravo’s “Top Chef” is returning for its 17th season, taking place in Los Angeles and with a cast of cheftestants who devotees will recognize from previous years.
While Colorado isn’t getting too much love this season, fans should recognize one contestant from Season 15, which took place around the Centennial State: Joe Sasto, based in L.A., returns for Season 17.
And Gregory Gourdet, the “Top Chef” Season 12 runner-up, makes a comeback this year. Gourdet is based in Portland but operated an outpost of his Departure restaurant for two years in Denver until it closed last March.
Here’s the rest of the Season 17 “Top Chef” cast, along with where their season was filmed and where they are based:
Eric Adjepong (Season 16: Kentucky), Washington, D.C.
Karen Akunowicz (Season 13: California), Boston, Mass.
Jennifer Carroll (Season 6: Las Vegas, Season 8: All Stars, and Last Chance Kitchen Season 7), Philadelphia, Penn., and Washington, D.C.
Stephanie Cmar (Season 11: New Orleans), Boston, Mass.
Lisa Fernandes (Season 4: Chicago), Brooklyn, N.Y.
Kevin Gillespie (Season 6: Las Vegas), Atlanta, Ga.
Jamie Lynch (Season 14: Charleston), Charlotte, N.C.
Melissa King (Season 12: Boston), San Francisco, Calif.
Brian Malarkey (Season 3: Miami), San Diego, Calif.
Nini Nguyen (Season 16: Kentucky), New York, N.Y.
Angelo Sosa (Season 7: Washington D.C. and Season 8: All Stars New York), San Diego, Calif.
Bryan Voltaggio (Season 6: Las Vegas), Frederick, Md.
Lee Anne Wong (Season 1: San Francisco and Last Chance Kitchen Season 7), Maui, Hawaii
The new season premieres March 19 at 8 p.m. on Bravo.
Incidentally, on that same day, the first “Top Chef” Food & Wine Festival kicks off at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Subscribe to our new food newsletter, Stuffed, to get Denver food and drink news sent straight to your inbox.


thedenverpost--2020-01-23--Nuggets takeaways: No “feeling sorry for ourselves” down five key players

HOUSTON — It wasn ’ t defense or scoring that hurt the Nuggets the most on Wednesday against the Rockets ; it was their lack of size .
Mason Plumlee , Paul Millsap and Michael Porter Jr. were all out due to various injuries , and the Rockets bombarded the Nuggets on the offensive glass .
Houston had 18 offensive rebounds , including eight from Clint Capela and six from Russell Westbrook .
There was no overcoming that number , which contributed to Houston ’ s plus-13 rebounding advantage .
It was that component — not Gary Harris ’ individual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ability – that the Nuggets missed the most .
Outside of that glaring number , there were a couple other takeaways from Wednesday ’ s defeat .
Just because the Nuggets entered Wednesday night down three starters and five key players , no one on the team was willing to concede the loss .
Certainly not Monte Morris , who was elevated to starting point guard duties four games ago and took the loss harder than one might expect .
“ It ’ s still frustrating , ” Morris said .
“ When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted to win .
We aren ’ t just going out there feeling sorry for ourselves because we were down six guys , whatever the number is .
… We want to win every single game .
Yeah , leaving the locker room , we think we can beat them .
We ’ ve shown we can beat them.
” There was no consolation prize for competing hard , though Michael Malone did credit them for that .
Against Minnesota , knowing his team was depleted , Jokic said he tried be more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vocal leader .
“ I challenged him tonight , I said listen , ‘ It ’ s going to be even more important tonight , ” Malone said .
“ We have more guys out.
’ Can you be a leader when things aren ’ t going well ?
Can you , kind of , be a guy that all these young guys can look to and be a source of comfort and confidence ?
Yes , he gets a triple-double , he plays extremely hard , but I ’ m more proud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not allowing our circumstances to take away from our positive energy.
” • Rockets take down injury-ravaged Nuggets despite Nikola Jokic ’ s triple-double • Michael Porter Jr. ruled out vs .
Rockets with back tightness • Michael Malone , Nuggets head coach , is new voice of Denver International Airport trains He did it again against the Rockets .
During a timeout , when the game was trending away from the Nuggets , he went and addressed a group of reserves before they headed back into the game .
When asked about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite remember what he said .
But in the moment , it didn ’ t look like lip service .
Jokic is going to get the tone for however long Murray , Harris and Millsap remain out .
Plumlee ’ s foot injury might leave the biggest hole for the Nuggets to fill .
Their glut of wings can temporarily make up for Harris and Porter ’ s injuries , but they simply don ’ t have a lot of options in the frontcourt .
That ’ s why Grant ’ s performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebounds , scrapped with James Harden on the perimeter , affected shots at the rim and generally , used his length to his advantage .
He ’ s snatched seven rebounds each over the last two games , two of his biggest outputs of the season .
The Nuggets need him to play big while they ’ re thin up front .
“ Jerami , kind of a Swiss-army knife , he ’ s playing backup four , he ’ s playing backup five , he ’ s guarding Capela , he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guarding Westbrook , and he ’ s rebounding , ” Malone said .
“ We haven ’ t had many reps in practices where we can get him used to being a five , but he screens , he rolls , he ’ s on the rim , he ’ s really effective in that.
” They need his defensive rebounding more than ever heading into another game against the lengthy Pelicans on Friday night .
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HOUSTON — It wasn’t defense or scoring that hurt the Nuggets the most on Wednesday against the Rockets; it was their lack of size.
Mason Plumlee, Paul Millsap and Michael Porter Jr. were all out due to various injuries, and the Rockets bombarded the Nuggets on the offensive glass. Houston had 18 offensive rebounds, including eight from Clint Capela and six from Russell Westbrook. There was no overcoming that number, which contributed to Houston’s plus-13 rebounding advantage.
It was that component — not Gary Harris’ individual defense or Jamal Murray’s scoring ability – that the Nuggets missed the most. Outside of that glaring number, there were a couple other takeaways from Wednesday’s defeat.
No bodies, no problem
Just because the Nuggets entered Wednesday night down three starters and five key players, no one on the team was willing to concede the loss. Certainly not Monte Morris, who was elevated to starting point guard duties four games ago and took the loss harder than one might expect.
“It’s still frustrating,” Morris said. “When we left the locker room, we wanted to win. We aren’t just going out there feeling sorry for ourselves because we were down six guys, whatever the number is. … We want to win every single game. Yeah, leaving the locker room, we think we can beat them. We’ve shown we can beat them.”
There was no consolation prize for competing hard, though coach Michael Malone did credit them for that.
Nikola’s voice growing stronger
Against Minnesota, knowing his team was depleted, Jokic said he tried be more engaged and serve as more of a vocal leader.
“I challenged him tonight, I said listen, ‘It’s going to be even more important tonight,” Malone said. “We have more guys out.’ Can you be a leader when things aren’t going well? Can you, kind of, be a guy that all these young guys can look to and be a source of comfort and confidence? Yes, he gets a triple-double, he plays extremely hard, but I’m more proud of the fact that we’re not allowing our circumstances to take away from our positive energy.”
He did it again against the Rockets. During a timeout, when the game was trending away from the Nuggets, he went and addressed a group of reserves before they headed back into the game. When asked about the moment, he couldn’t quite remember what he said. But in the moment, it didn’t look like lip service.
Jokic is going to set the tone for however long Murray, Harris and Millsap remain out.
Swiss Army knife
Plumlee’s foot injury might leave the biggest hole for the Nuggets to fill. Their glut of wings can temporarily make up for Harris and Porter’s injuries, but they simply don’t have a lot of options in the frontcourt. That’s why Grant’s performance was so impressive. He clawed for rebounds, scrapped with James Harden on the perimeter, affected shots at the rim and generally used his length to his advantage. He’s snatched seven rebounds each over the last two games, two of his biggest outputs of the season. The Nuggets need him to play big while they’re thin up front.
“Jerami, kind of a Swiss Army knife, he’s playing backup four, he’s playing backup five, he’s guarding Capela, he’s guarding Harden, he’s guarding Westbrook, and he’s rebounding,” Malone said. “We haven’t had many reps in practices where we can get him used to being a five, but he screens, he rolls, he’s on the rim, he’s really effective in that.”
They need his defensive rebounding more than ever heading into another game against the lengthy Pelicans on Friday night.
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thedenverpost--2020-01-23--U.S. imposes visa rules for pregnant women on “birth tourism”

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration on Thursday published new visa rules aimed at restricting “ birth tourism , ” in which women travel to the U.S. to give birth so their children can have a coveted U.S. passport .
Applicants will be denied tourist visas if they are determined by consular officers to be coming to the U.S. primarily to give birth , according to the rules in the Federal Register .
It is a bigger hurdle to overcome , proving they are traveling to the U.S. because they have a medical need and not just because they want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ needs will be treated like other foreigners coming to the U.S. for medical treatment and must prove they have the money to pay for it — including transportation and living expenses .
The practice of traveling to the U.S. to give birth is fundamentally legal , although there are scattered cases of authorities arresting operators of birth tourism agencies for visa fraud or tax evasion .
And women are often honest about their intentions when applying for visas and even show signed contracts with doctors and hospitals .
The State Department “ does @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the primary purpose of obtaining U.S. citizenship for a child , by giving birth in the United States — an activity commonly referred to as ‘ birth tourism ’ — is a legitimate activity for pleasure or of a recreational nature , ” according to the new rules , which take effect Friday .
President Donald Trump ’ s administration has been restricting all forms of immigration , but Trump has been particularly plagued by the issue of birthright citizenship — anyone born in the U.S. is considered a citizen , under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ railed against the practice and threatened to end it , but scholars and members of his administration have said it ’ s not so easy to do .
Regulating tourist visas for pregnant women is one way to get at the issue , but it raises questions about how officers would determine whether a woman is pregnant to begin with and whether a woman could get turned away by border officers who suspect she may be just by looking at her .
Consular officers don ’ t have the right to ask during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or intends to become so .
But they would still have to determine whether a visa applicant would be coming to the U.S. primarily to give birth .
Birth tourism is a lucrative business in both the U.S. and abroad .
Companies take out advertisements and charge up to $ 80,000 to facilitate the practice , offering hotel rooms and medical care .
Many of the women travel from Russia and China to give birth in the U.S .
The U.S. has been cracking down on the practice since before Trump took office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ industry has evolved to assist pregnant women from other countries to come to the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their children by giving birth in the United States , and thereby entitle their children to the benefits of U.S. citizenship , ” according to the State Department rules .
There are no figures on how many foreign women travel to the U.S. specifically to give birth .
The Center for Immigration Studies , a group that advocates for stricter immigration laws , estimated that in 2012 about 36,000 foreign-born women @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left the country .
“ This rule will help eliminate the criminal activity associated with the birth tourism industry , ” according to the rules .
“ The recent federal indictments describe birth tourism schemes in which foreign nationals applied for visitor visas to come to the United States and lied to consular officers about the duration of their trips , where they would stay , and their purpose of travel .
”

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration on Thursday published new visa rules aimed at restricting “birth tourism,” in which women travel to the U.S. to give birth so their children can have a coveted U.S. passport.
Applicants will be denied tourist visas if they are determined by consular officers to be coming to the U.S. primarily to give birth, according to the rules in the Federal Register. It is a bigger hurdle to overcome, proving they are traveling to the U.S. because they have a medical need and not just because they want to give birth here. Those with medical needs will be treated like other foreigners coming to the U.S. for medical treatment and must prove they have the money to pay for it — including transportation and living expenses.
The practice of traveling to the U.S. to give birth is fundamentally legal, although there are scattered cases of authorities arresting operators of birth tourism agencies for visa fraud or tax evasion. And women are often honest about their intentions when applying for visas and even show signed contracts with doctors and hospitals.
The State Department “does not believe that visiting the United States for the primary purpose of obtaining U.S. citizenship for a child, by giving birth in the United States — an activity commonly referred to as ‘birth tourism’ — is a legitimate activity for pleasure or of a recreational nature,” according to the new rules, which take effect Friday.
President Donald Trump’s administration has been restricting all forms of immigration, but Trump has been particularly plagued by the issue of birthright citizenship — anyone born in the U.S. is considered a citizen, under the Constitution. The Republican president has railed against the practice and threatened to end it, but scholars and members of his administration have said it’s not so easy to do.
Regulating tourist visas for pregnant women is one way to get at the issue, but it raises questions about how officers would determine whether a woman is pregnant to begin with and whether a woman could get turned away by border officers who suspect she may be just by looking at her.
Consular officers don’t have the right to ask during visa interviews whether a woman is pregnant or intends to become so. But they would still have to determine whether a visa applicant would be coming to the U.S. primarily to give birth.
Birth tourism is a lucrative business in both the U.S. and abroad. Companies take out advertisements and charge up to $80,000 to facilitate the practice, offering hotel rooms and medical care. Many of the women travel from Russia and China to give birth in the U.S.
The U.S. has been cracking down on the practice since before Trump took office.
“An entire ‘birth tourism’ industry has evolved to assist pregnant women from other countries to come to the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their children by giving birth in the United States, and thereby entitle their children to the benefits of U.S. citizenship,” according to the State Department rules.
There are no figures on how many foreign women travel to the U.S. specifically to give birth. The Center for Immigration Studies, a group that advocates for stricter immigration laws, estimated that in 2012 about 36,000 foreign-born women gave birth in the U.S. and then left the country.
“This rule will help eliminate the criminal activity associated with the birth tourism industry,” according to the rules. “The recent federal indictments describe birth tourism schemes in which foreign nationals applied for visitor visas to come to the United States and lied to consular officers about the duration of their trips, where they would stay, and their purpose of travel.”


thedenverpost--2020-01-23--Major League Baseball to sponsor U.S. Olympic softball team

NEW YORK — Major League Baseball is using its financial muscle to support the U.S. women ’ s softball team , which already is assured a spot in the Tokyo Olympics while the American men ’ s baseball team struggles to qualify .
MLB announced an agreement Thursday to become presenting sponsor of the women ’ s “ Stand Beside Her ” tour , a slate of exhibition games leading up to the Olympic tournament from July 22-28 .
“ We ’ re both bat and ball sports .
Even though we ’ re not the same sport , there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t ignore , ” said Kim Ng , MLB ’ s senior vice president for baseball operations .
“ It was important for us to make sure that they have this acknowledgment and recognition of their ability and their talent.
” Softball began as an Olympic sport for the 1996 Atlanta Games .
The U.S. won gold medals in 1996 , 2000 and 2004 with players that included Dot Richardson , Jennie Finch and Jessica Mendoza , then lost to Japan in the 2008 gold medal game .
Baseball and softball @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then restored for this year , when the U.S. and Japan will be joined by Australia , Canada , Italy and Mexico for games in Fukushima and Yokohama but not Tokyo .
The sports are likely to be dropped for 2024 in Paris but could return four years later in Los Angeles .
The U.S. men ’ s baseball team stumbled in its first attempt to qualify , wasting a ninth-inning lead against Mexico in the final game of the Premier12 tournament in November and losing in the 10th .
The U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Japan , Mexico and South Korea in the Olympic field : an Americas tournament in Arizona from March 22-26 and a final tournament in Taiwan from April 1-5 .
MLB is not allowing players on 40-man big league rosters to compete in qualifying , and few top pitching prospects were at the November tournament .
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Softball has no such issues .
The Olympics are the sport ’ s highest-profile event .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bigger , ” American outfielder Haylie McCleney said .
“ For us , it ’ s a great opportunity for people that have never watched softball before , people that have only followed it at the collegiate level , to really see how fun our game is to watch , how pure it is .
If people are baseball fans , I guarantee they ’ re going to love softball because it ’ s pretty much just a faster game — it ’ s shorter , it ’ s quicker , it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my opinion.
” The 2008 gold medal softball game took 1 hours , 45 minutes — less than half the 3:45 average for this year ’ s World Series .
• Rockies Insider : Larry Walker ’ s Hall of Fame career began with dreams of being an NHL goalie • Luis Rojas tabbed by Mets to replace Carlos Beltrán as manager • Kiszla : Wearing SpongeBob shirt , goofball Larry Walker finally kicks down door to Hall of Fame • Analysis : What led Nolan Arenado to feel “ disrespected ” ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ remains , sources say • Todd Helton sees Hall of Fame votes shoot up in second year on ballot As part of the deal with MLB , the softball team ’ s official training facility will be at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex in Vero Beach , Florida , the old Dodgertown spring training camp .
MLB Network will include programming from the tour , which currently starts Feb. 4 in Tampa , Florida , and has about three dozen stops .
The U.S. women ’ s soccer team has attracted huge television @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opportunity for the sport ’ s growth .
“ These are world-class athletes , ” Ng said .
“ Because we have not been in the Olympics for the last 12 years , they just haven ’ t had that stage .
So it ’ s really important at this point that we show as much support as we can for them .
”

NEW YORK — Major League Baseball is using its financial muscle to support the U.S. women’s softball team, which already is assured a spot in the Tokyo Olympics while the American men’s baseball team struggles to qualify.
MLB announced an agreement Thursday to become presenting sponsor of the women’s “Stand Beside Her” tour, a slate of exhibition games leading up to the Olympic tournament from July 22-28.
“We’re both bat and ball sports. Even though we’re not the same sport, there are so many similarities that you just can’t ignore,” said Kim Ng, MLB’s senior vice president for baseball operations. “It was important for us to make sure that they have this acknowledgment and recognition of their ability and their talent.”
Softball began as an Olympic sport for the 1996 Atlanta Games. The U.S. won gold medals in 1996, 2000 and 2004 with players that included Dot Richardson, Jennie Finch and Jessica Mendoza, then lost to Japan in the 2008 gold medal game.
Baseball and softball were dropped for the next two Olympics, then restored for this year, when the U.S. and Japan will be joined by Australia, Canada, Italy and Mexico for games in Fukushima and Yokohama but not Tokyo. The sports are likely to be dropped for 2024 in Paris but could return four years later in Los Angeles.
The U.S. men’s baseball team stumbled in its first attempt to qualify, wasting a ninth-inning lead against Mexico in the final game of the Premier12 tournament in November and losing in the 10th. The U.S. has two more chances to join Israel, Japan, Mexico and South Korea in the Olympic field: an Americas tournament in Arizona from March 22-26 and a final tournament in Taiwan from April 1-5.
MLB is not allowing players on 40-man big league rosters to compete in qualifying, and few top pitching prospects were at the November tournament.
Softball has no such issues. The Olympics are the sport’s highest-profile event.
“The platform for us is 10 times bigger,” American outfielder Haylie McCleney said. “For us, it’s a great opportunity for people that have never watched softball before, people that have only followed it at the collegiate level, to really see how fun our game is to watch, how pure it is. If people are baseball fans, I guarantee they’re going to love softball because it’s pretty much just a faster game — it’s shorter, it’s quicker, it’s more entertaining to watch, in my opinion.”
The 2008 gold medal softball game took 1 hours, 45 minutes — less than half the 3:45 average for this year’s World Series.
As part of the deal with MLB, the softball team’s official training facility will be at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex in Vero Beach, Florida, the old Dodgertown spring training camp.
MLB Network will include programming from the tour, which currently starts Feb. 4 in Tampa, Florida, and has about three dozen stops.
The U.S. women’s soccer team has attracted huge television audiences. MLB sees softball as an opportunity for the sport’s growth.
“These are world-class athletes,” Ng said. “Because we have not been in the Olympics for the last 12 years, they just haven’t had that stage. So it’s really important at this point that we show as much support as we can for them.”