Commerce City General Issues July 2009

Another month has passed and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ASK THE CANDIDATES?

This online forum is going to allow you, THE VOTERS, to ask all the questions you would like to ask of ALL THE CANDIDATES. This November in 2009 and next November in 2010, we have some very important seats to fill and issues to decide. We have a mayor in Brighton, city council seats in Brighton and Commerce City and director seats in school districts 27J and ACSD14, and county, state, and federal seats next fall. Also, there could be bonds to pass (or fail) and issues to be decided.

When you post your question, please let us know which candidate the question is for, or if it is for all candidates in a certain race, or for all candidates in general. Candidates we encourage you to visit often, you can pick and choose which questions to respond to or just use the forum to understand your future constituents concerns. If you have a problem blogging, please call us at 720-221-7352 or fax to 720-221-8317 or email to dustie@coloradobusinessalliance.com or just come up to us at any city event and tell us directly.

Periodically, we will print questions and answers in the print version of the Gateway News.

Colby Trull Announces his Desire to run for Commerce City Council At-Large Position in November 2009

Dear Commerce City Residents –

Hello, my name is Colby Trull, and it is with great excitement that I announce my candidacy for an at-large City Council seat for the November 2009 elections. I have been a resident of Commerce City for the past two years, and as my wife says, “We’ve finally found our home!”

I wanted to share with you a little about myself. First and foremost, I am a dedicated husband, loving and doting father, and your friendly neighbor. To pay the bills, I’m the director of Information Technology Audits for the State of Colorado and serve my country in the United States Navy Reserves. I have a passion for public service and have prior experience serving on municipal budget committees and working in the areas of economic development, public safety, housing, planning and zoning, code enforcement, central business district revitalization, and intergovernmental affairs at the local, state, and federal government levels.

If elected, my overall goal is to build a strong and vibrant city one community at a time. Our city’s current and previous leaders have laid the foundation. I am hoping to work in partnership with you, city representatives, the business community, faith-based organizations, non-profits, area chamber of commerce and economic development corporations, our state elected officials, school district, metro districts, and county officials to build upon this foundation and help Commerce City become that “…city upon a hill …” which all eyes turn to see.

These are my main priorities, and I would be happy to provide you the details when we meet:

• Fiscal Responsibility & Stewardship
• Government Transparency & Accountability
• Sustainable Economic Development
• Public Safety
• Transportation
• Quality of Life

I look forward to making new friends and hearing your stories during this election process. Whether over a cup of coffee, via email, twitter, facebook, or the Gateway News website, I want to hear from you. I encourage you to share your ideas and views; and if so inclined, share your time and talents to assist me in my campaign.

If you vote for me, I can assure you that I will represent you with integrity, honesty, and fidelity; and respond to all city residents with compassion and understanding. My goal is to lead by example and honor the trust placed in me when you vote for me this November.

On most evenings you’ll find me in my backyard playing with my daughters. Please stop by and introduce yourself and be prepared for the questions: “What’s your story? How can we make Commerce City the best place to live, work, and raise a family?”

Contact me at:
Trull.colby@gmail.com
303-949-5217
9874 Quintero Street
Commerce City, CO 80022

Steve Douglas announces his desire to run for Commerce City at-large council position in November 2009

To the Citizens of the Great City of Commerce City:

There are few times in a person’s life that stand out as true watershed moments; a course of action or an idea that changes the course of one’s life and family. Such a time came for me when we moved to Commerce City. Our family just didn’t end up here by chance. We studied every aspect of this city and came to the conclusion that we wanted this to be our “Home Town”. We loved the diversity, both in the people and in the very nature of the city itself. With the beauty of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, to the magnificence of the views of Long’s Peak and the incredible potential of restoring historic Derby coupled with the promise (which is now fulfilled) of a very contemporary new Civic Center next door to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, we were excited to move here.

Right from the beginning, both Kristi and I were interested in how the Commerce City government functioned. Over the years, we attended many events throughout the city and learned that, indeed, the most outstanding quality of this city is the people. I have met so many of you and feel that I have an honest and educated view of not only the history of the city and its people but also what is going on currently. This is important because our history and current governmental direction will affect the future of our city for generations to come.

Keeping the future of this city in mind, I have been involved in city boards and commissions as well as became the Chair, and now the Co-Chair of the Reunion Metro District. I wanted to do everything that I could do to insure the quality of the new growth in our city as well as safeguarding the investments we have already made in our homes. In addition, by keeping a listening ear, I discovered that people all over the city want to make sure that their voices are heard loud and clear by those in elected office. Every neighborhood in Commerce City is equally significant. All are inhabited by families and all of those families deserve the best that this city and it’s officials have to offer.

Because I believe in this city; its people, past and present and all those that will come in the future, I have decided to announce my intent to run for Council-At Large in November’s election. I feel that I have the heartbeat of the citizens and the qualifications and energy to fulfill my commitment to all of the citizens of Commerce City. I do not take this lightly and in the coming months will define my qualifications, my ideas, opinions and my vision for the future. I will work hard to earn your trust and your vote in November. Please call me at 720-205-2621, I would love to talk to you about your concerns and would love to hear your opinions.

Steve Douglas

Commerce City General Issues June 2009

Another month has passed and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Robert Romine Announces He Will Run for Commerce City At-Large Position

Robert Romine is a proven neighborhood leader and a pillar of the community. He is actively involved in the city and believes in equal representation for the entire city. Robert will listen to you-the citizens and collaborate to find a means to fix the problems and address the issues. Robert has dedicated many years to serving his community by his involvement in the community, memberships and boards held, and attending community meetings and events to voice the opinion where Commerce City and the citizens are being represented.

Robert is the recipient of the 2008-2009 Recycler of the Year. He also was the catalyst behind Derby and Commerce City winning the 2009 Neighborhood of the Year - Physical Revitalization Award. Robert dedicates his time by volunteering for several different boards including The CARZ Club, Commerce City Citizens for Recycling, RTD Fast Trax Board, Derby Neighborhood Outreach, Commerce City Board of Adjustments, just to name a few.

To learn more about Robert visit - www.voterobertromine.com.

David Pocs Officially Announces Decision to Run for City Council of Ward III in November's Election

Thanks for all your help in the community.

I officially announced that I am running for the term limited Ward III City Council seat at the June 4, 2009 Commerce City Business and Professional Association (CCBPA) meeting. This group like our City is a diverse group of people and businesses. Ward III has been our Colorado home since moving here over six years ago from Illinois, and we cherish this diversity of people and business that makes Commerce City a great place to live.

Since moving here I have been involved with various groups in our community. I have served on the Zoning Board of Adjustments since 2005. I have been in the CCBPA, since 2006, and a Commerce City Rotarian. Through my various endeavors I have come20to know many of the community leaders, city staff, all of the current council members, and some of the “Founding Fathers”.I often think of the inscription on the Alma Mater statue at the University of Illinois that I walked by almost daily: “To Thy Happy Children of the Future, Those of the Past Send Greetings”.To those founding fathers and past city councils! I say thank you. You have built a great foundation to those “Happy Children of the Future”.

Many people have asked me why I am running for city council. When people say they have a calling, I now finally understand it, as this is mine. I feel my formal education in Economic/Urban Geography and MBA in Finance coupled with my work experiences in Economic Development, Retail Development, Affordable Housing, & Finance has led me to this run for election. I feel this combination of education, skills, experience & contacts w ill help move our city progressively forward. I look forward to working with the city council and staff to ask the right questions and create the win/win solutions with the prop! er tact and openness to create the “Quality Community for a Lifetime” that we all desire.

David Pocs

J.E. “MAC” McFarlin Jr. Officially Announces Decision to Run for City Council of Ward I in November's Election

June 4, 2009

Hello, from J. E. “MAC” McFarlin Jr.

This morning on the 58th anniversary of My Parents saying, what in the Heck Is That? I took the pleasure of announcing my desire to run for the Ward 1 Council Seat in this November’s City election. It was especially gratifying to share this announcement at the CCBPA meeting among friends and associates who share a love for the City and People of Commerce City.

Ward 1 is faced with a number of challenges for the future. The restoration of the Derby area, the Highway 2 and Highway 85 corridors, the redevelopment of the old AC High School sight, Fastracks station along Colorado Blvd., possible redevelopment of the IvyK area, the need to annex the unincorporated enclave areas into the city, and of course the I-70 changes coming up. These will of course have to be handled along with challenges that are specific to the other three wards and the City as a whole. I look forward to working with our partners, SACFD, SACW&SD, SD14, SD 27J, Adams County, Denver, and the rest of the area communities and special districts. Only with cooperation and collaboration will we be able to continue to improve Commerce City and the northeast metro area.

I’ve had the privilege to work with a lot of citizens (both residential and business) and a lot of dedicated city employees, and officials (elected and appointed) over the last several years. Surprisingly, none of us had all the answers individually, some didn’t even know the questions, but by listening, learning, and working together, we’ve been able to build a great city to Live, Love, Work and Play in. I believe our best days and years are still to come. Whether I’m elected or not I will continue to work with and for the people of Commerce City.

A brief history;
Family moved to Commerce Town from Aurora in 1959.
Attended Kemp Elementary, Central Elementary, Kearney Junior High and Adams City Senior High School. Graduated in 1969.
Enlisted US Army, 1970-1972
Outside Sales Rep. E & G Terminal, 1987-present
Married to Lona, April 1st, 1989-present
CIAC, Citizens Improvement Advisory Committee, Co-Chairman 1999-2008
Prairie Gateway Authority, Board Member, 2003-2007
Commerce City Planning Commission, 2000-2003 alternate, 2005-present Chairman
CCBPA, Commerce City Business & Professional Assoc., 1999-present, past VP and past Board Member
CCBPA, Citizen of the Year, 2004
Candidate for Commerce City, Ward 1 City Councilperson, 2009

Kerstin Berlinski Officially Announces Decision to Run for City Council of Ward III in November's Election

To my dear friends and neighbors,

I wanted to officially announce my decision to run for City Council of Ward III in November's election.

I believe in our City and what it could be in the future. When we moved here I was excited to be part of a new community being built. A lot has changed in the almost 6 years we have lived here. I am truly looking forward to making the community even better and a strong leader in Northern Denver Metro area.

I look forward to getting to know you all a bit better and listen to your ideas for our City and specifically our Ward. This is a key time to live in Commerce City. A lot of the cities in the Metro area are being affected by the economy. Commerce City is still moving ahead to improve our community. The City is really focused on listening to the ideas of the citizens and what we want. I look forward to being a liaison to pass these ideas on to the right people and make things happen for us.

Thank you for your time. I hope I will have the support of you all!

Look forward to seeing you out at our community events over the next few months.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns I have created a specific email for my campaign, vote4kerstin@gmail.com , please send all inquiries to this address.

Thank you again and have a great day!

Jason McEldowney Announces Desire to Run for Commerce City Council at-large Position

Dear friends, neighbors and community leaders,

I wanted each of you to be among the first to personally hear of my decision to run for my City Council At-Large seat in this November’s election.

It’s hard to believe that it’s already been two years since I made the decision to pursue a vacancy on the City Council in May of 2007. I am incredibly fortunate to have been selected and to have had this opportunity to serve you on the City Council in an At-Large capacity.

From east to west, north to south, this role has provided me a unique opportunity to really get to know my community, my neighbors, and our community partners. Through this experience, I’ve also been blessed with new friends from all around the community. Quite simply, it’s been a true privilege to interact with all of you over these last two years.

I believe that the City’s past leaders, and that City Council over these past two years have done well to bring Commerce City to the place we are today. Together we have laid a great foundation. I see my role on the City Council as not only an opportunity, but as a duty, to help further these efforts and to do everything I can to help ensure that the City of Commerce City realizes its full potential.

I believe that ultimately it’s only by working together rather than against each other, and by being solution and goal-oriented, that the City of Commerce City can build on the achievements of the past and realize the full potential of the opportunities that lie ahead of us. The future of ten years ago is now. What do we want the future of 10, 15, 20 years from today to look like? I believe that the best way for us to face that future is to build it – together, not to have someone else dictate it to us.

Clearly, I believe that we are at a critical juncture in our City’s history and that we can lead this City into the future, while honoring the best from our past. We need to make enhancing infrastructure, delivering FasTracks, promoting smart commercial and retail development, and implementing a sustainable plan for the growth and management of this City our top focus. Critical projects around the community like the redevelopment and revitalization of Derby and the expansion of roads and services like a recreation center and police presence in the Northern Range are all incredibly important. Furthermore, I believe it’s critical for the City to closely partner with both of our school districts, our fire department, water district, our neighboring communities and DIA as we lay out that vision for this City’s future.

I believe that we need to take care of those who have made this City what it is, as well as those that have only recently begun to call Commerce City home. I believe that now, more than ever, we need to bring people from across the community to the table and get them engaged in the process of government.

In addition to our rich commercial and industrial heritage, I see a huge opportunity for Commerce City to be a leader in sustainable growth, smart energy and a home to the people and businesses that will lead our country in this 21st Century. We have a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to a “greener”, more sustainable path forward. With efforts like the soon-to-be built new state of the art visitor center at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, our new LEED Silver City Hall, the new Rapids Stadium, and the Mile High Music Festival, all demonstrate the great things happening in our community – but I believe that there are even greater opportunities ahead. To realize them, it’s critical that we partner with our neighbors, the state and the private sector in order to pursue viable renewable energy and conservation projects and ultimately create an environment that keeps jobs in Commerce City while attracting the next wave of businesses that will call Commerce City home.

Above all, I’ve believe that we must all be focused on efforts that reinforce the positives of Commerce City and ultimately demonstrate our City’s viability to the global community.

Together we must tell the story of Commerce City, rather than allow others to tell it for us. I can guarantee you that they will never tell the story as we want it to be told.

As your Councilman, I will leverage my practical business experience, creativity, solid values and common sense to partner with the people and businesses across Commerce City and our partners in the region to help realize our true potential.

I look forward to speaking with each of you in the coming months, to listen to your ideas, needs and wants, and to work with you to take Commerce City forward.

Thank you all for your support and commitment to Commerce City.

Sincerely,
Jason D. McEldowney
Comments and Questions can be emailed to: jason_mc_2009@comcast.net

Adams County School District #14 School Issues

Some of the issues parents and students face at Adams County School District #14 Hanson PreK-8 School include a possibility of losing their very well loved Principal - Judy Jaramillo.

Judy Jaramillo was recently placed on Administrative Leave.

Hanson also had a change from a year round calendar to a standard year, despite numerous of parents protest.

The statement by the Adams County School Administration is to move towards a School District, rather then a District of Schools.

What do you think?

Comments can be posted directly, call in at 720-221-7352 or

email to: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Dr. Fiedler said “The article is NOT OK..."

Dr. Chris Fiedler confirmed that an article titled “Alien Immigration Attracts Attention” appeared in the Prairie View High School student newspaper. The article was published May 1 and discussed the impact that “Alien Immigrants from the planet Zarcon” are having on the high school.

The edition was clearly marked “April Fools 2009” and included many satirical articles such as “Sesame Street Icon Leads Police on Puppet Chase,” “Twilight Wannabes Cancel Prairie View’s Prom,” “Prairie View’s Own Mascot Arrested Over Spring Break,” “Gator-in-Toilet Prank Swamps PVHS,” “The Yeti Migration,” “Teachers Found Guilty of Addiction” (to glazed donuts), and “Water Contamination Causes Mutations.”

It featured photos such as Nessie the Lochness Monster in the pond behind the school.

Despite that, Dr. Fiedler said “The article is NOT OK. While it was clearly an April Fools edition, the article would not have been appropriate even if the published on April 1.”

Dr. Fiedler has addressed the issue with the teacher and is confident this sort of activity will not occur again.

After students went to the principal with concerns yesterday regarding the article, Dr. Fiedler and about 85 concerned students met for a lengthy discussion with the teacher. The teacher apologized to the students and the students were given the opportunity to share why they were offended by the article.

The students were invited to write articles / letters to the editor and each one will be published in the next PVHS student newspaper.

“What really hurts the most in all this,” Dr. Fiedler said, “is that on May 15 we’re going to be designated a ‘No Place for Hate’ school. We’ve done so much this year to unify our students … this will set us back.”

Commerce City General Issues May 2009

Another month has passed and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

You’re The Mayor...What Would You DO???

Commerce City Mayor Paul Natale took a stand on the CSAP tests when asked what he would do if he was the School District 27J Superintendent for a day.

Now it’s your turn. You are the Mayor, what would you do? You can choose to be mayor of either Brighton or Commerce City.

The Gateway News wants to hear about all your ideas, your opinions and which issues you would address in your new role as mayor. We would to hear from as many of you as possible. Therefore, we will also be asking individuals for their responses when we are out and about. So give it some thought...you can post directly, or email us at dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com or call and tell us at 720.221.7352 or fax at 720.221.8317 or just come up and tell us in person.

Those with the best ideas will be encouraged to run for city council this fall!
We have a deadline of May 20th, so we can also do an article in the print edition of the Gateway News. So don't delay.

Does Brighton need a new detention center?

As The Brighton City Council prepares to review plans for a new detention center at Sable & Bromley, local residents are questioning whether it's really needed. The location is close to stores, homes, and the rapidly-developing new economy of Brighton.

Is this the right time? The right place? What about issues of safety and management?

What do you think?

Ref: See Gateway News Vol.5 Issue 3 page 21 April 3, 2009

Guns At Commerce City Council Meetings???

The issue of guns at Commerce City council meetings was brought to light after a report to the Mayor of Commerce City Paul Natale.

It was reported that a fellow council member, Jim Benson had the idea to bring a concealed weapon to city council meetings after receiving a concealed weapons permit. When confronted by the Mayor, Jim Benson denies that was his intent.

It was the direction of the Commerce City Council to have the city staff draft an ordinance that would not allow any guns into Commrce City council meeting, with exception of the Police and Security officers.

What do you think?

I-70 East Corridor and Commerce City

The purpose of the I-70 East Corridor EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) is to improve transportation along the I-70 highway corridor from I-25 to Tower Road and to explore potential rapid transit options from Downtown Denver to Denver International Airport.

An EIS is typically a three to five-year decision-making process required before any major federally-funded transportation project can be built. The EIS ensures that issues affecting the community and the environment are identified and considered before making a final decision. The process is conducted by local, state, and federal agencies and is a requirement of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

To make a complicated situation easier to understand, part of the project could have a major impact on the city of Commerce City. There are two “BASIC” situations, one of the alternatives is to bring I-70 north blocks into Commerce City. The other keeps the alignment on its current path. To learn much more detail about the matter at hand please visit http://www.i-70east.com/. Also, read the comments Commerce City's on the I-70 East Draft Environmental Impact Statement (pdf to the left of this article).

What do you think?

Commerce City Full Time Council, Full Time Pay???

Commerce City Derby resident Robert Romine has brought forth the idea that the Commerce City council should receive more money for the service they do. Romine states that they are “Now that you are a full time council...you deserve full time money.”

The council currently receives $817.05 per month and the mayor receives $933.75 per month.

Citizen Romine purposed to increase the pay to $1400-$1500 for council per month.

What do you think?

Commerce City General Issues April 2009

Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Colorado Student Assessment Program, What do you think?

Recently, the Mayor of Commerce City Paul Natale made his opinion of the CSAP clear during a joint city/school district meeting. Hearing many opinions of the matter, we want to know what you think.

The Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) is an assessment required by the No Child Left Behind Act administered by the Unit of Student Assessment in the Colorado Department of Education (CDE). The CSAP is designed to measure how well students are learning material from the Colorado Model Content Standards, the established content standards that all Colorado public school students should learn. The CSAP only tests four (mathematics, reading and writing, and science) of the thirteen subject areas in the Colorado Model Content Standards.

Starting in 3rd Grade, and continuing until 10th Grade (Sophomore year of High School), all students are expected to take their grade level's version of the CSAP, testing for which typically occurs during the Spring semester from early February to late March. The 3rd and 4th Grade versions of the CSAP are also available in Spanish to accommodate the high number of Spanish-speaking students in Colorado public schools who concurrently learn English. In 11th Grade (Junior year of High School) students are required to take the COACT (a Colorado specific version of the ACT) in place of the CSAP.

Commerce City Weed Ordinance

This issue has been ongoing since the Gateway News started. Currently it is illegal to have weeds on your property that exceed six inches. The council now is looking to possible change the weed ordinance to weeds not exceeding eight inches within twenty feet of the property line or within twenty feet of any public road for private properties larger then one acre.

What are your thoughts?

2009 Mile High Music Festival

Tickets For The Festival, Held July 18th and 19th On The Fields At Dick's Sporting Goods Park, Go On Sale Friday, April 3rd, At 10:00 AM MDT

Colorado's Mile High Music Festival returns to the Fields at Dick's Sporting Goods Park on July 18 and 19. The 2009 festival expands to two main stages for its second year. Headliners include TOOL (Saturday), Widespread Panic (on both Saturday and Sunday), and The Fray (Sunday).

In addition to the headliners, 2009 performance highlights include Incubus, Ben Harper and Relentless7, G.Love & Special Sauce, Gov't Mule, Buddy Guy, 3OH!3, Ani DiFranco, Paolo Nutini, The Black Keys, John Butler, Gomez, The Wailers, India.Arie and many others. The Fray, 3OH!3, India.Arie, Set Forth, and Paper Bird are among the bands on the bill who call Colorado home. A complete list of currently confirmed acts is included below, with additional artists still to be announced. Visit www.milehighmusicfestival.com for ongoing updates. Doors will open at 11:00 a.m. each day.

Mile High Music Festival exploded on to the national festival scene last year as Colorado's largest music and arts festival, offering concertgoers a tremendous variety of musical talent, food from many of Denver's top restaurants, an artists' village and more. The festival, which attracted more than 90,000 attendees its inaugural year, went off without a hitch and promises again to put the fan experience first. The festival grounds, with its remarkable views of the Denver skyline and Rocky Mountain Front Range, will offer even more shade, an increased number of free water stations, and shorter concession lines. The 2009 event also boasts an upgraded VIP experience and expanded festival greening initiatives.

This year's Mile High Music Festival charity component was created as a special thank you to the community that is supporting this Colorado summer tradition. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit Commerce City's Quality Community Foundation (QCF). "This is extremely good news," said Commerce City Mayor Paul Natale. "The city is very excited to again be a part of the Mile High Music Festival, and for AEG Live to donate money to the city's Quality Community Foundation is just music to my ears." The Quality Community Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established by Commerce City in 2006. It grants money to organizations that provide nonprofit services to Commerce City residents.

Tickets for Mile High Music Festival will go on sale Friday, April 3, at 10:00 a.m. MDT online at www.tickethorse.com and www.milehighmusicfestival.com, by phone at 866-461-6556 and at Dick's Sporting Goods Park Box Office. They can also be purchased with a credit card at the Ticket Outlet Kiosks in Colorado Dick's Sporting Goods stores. The Paramount Theatre Box Office will be open on Friday, April 3 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. to sell MHMF tickets to walk-up customers only. Ticket prices are $162.50 (plus service charges) for a 2-Day Pass. A limited number of Single Day Tickets will be available for $90.00 (plus service charges) while supplies last. Two-day VIP Packages are also available: $400.00 (plus service charges) for the Mile High VIP Pass and $1,250.00 for the Mile High Apex experience (plus service charges).

Mile High Music Festival's two-day weekend general-admission pass is available this year on a Layaway Program. The Layaway Program offers an opportunity to pay for the price of a two-day pass in two installments, with 50% plus service charges due at time of purchase and the remaining 50% balance due on June 12.

The festival will also offer a Carpool Package for $650.00 and includes four 2-day passes and special carpool parking. Carpoolers are encouraged to participate in the Mile High Music Festival Carpool Contest. Participants are asked to decorate their vehicles to draw attention to their green driving efforts. Winners will be chosen on each day of the festival and awarded VIP upgrades for each rider in the vehicle.

Visit www.milehighmusicfestival.com for details. The Fields at Dick's Sporting Goods Park is conveniently located just nine miles from downtown Denver, and only 1.8 miles from the I-70 and Quebec exit.

Commerce City and Earth Hour

From melting glaciers to increasingly intense weather patterns, we know that climate change is already impacting life on our planet.

On Saturday, March 28, 2009, at 8:30 pm, Commerce City will take part in Earth Hour—the world’s largest global climate change event. By simply turning off all non-essential lighting for one hour at our company buildings and in our own homes, we will join tens of millions of concerned citizens throughout the world in calling for action to save our planet for future generations.

Earth Hour is an event led by the World Wildlife Fund. In 2008, more than 50 million people in 370 cities around the world took part, as the lights dimmed at Sydney’s Opera House, Rome’s Coliseum, the Empire State Building and the Golden Gate Bridge. Even the Google homepage went dark for the day.

Energy efficiency isn’t just good for the bottom line. We all have a stake in the future of our planet and must learn to operate in ways that don’t deplete our world’s limited natural resources.

We hope you’ll join us in the important and inspiring effort and encourage your own employees, customers and suppliers to take part.

Video of Commerce City Earth Hour Proclamation

Colorado high school graduates the opportunity to pay in-state tuition, regardless of their immigration status

The bill, known as tuition equity legislation, sponsored by Senator Chris Romer (D-Denver), would allow all Colorado high school graduates the opportunity to pay in-state tuition, regardless of their immigration status.

Sen. Romer introduced several amendments to the original legislation, which include a requirement that students sign an affidavit expressing their commitment to follow proper procedures to secure legal status, as well as the removal of access to financial aid and Colorado's College Opportunity Fund. As amended, SB170 will not use any state dollars to fund the education of undocumented students.

Currently, under the state's public benefit ban (House Bill 06s-1023), undocumented students who graduate from Colorado high schools are ineligible for low, in-state tuition rates as well as federal and state financial aid programs. Even those who attended Colorado's K-12 public schools are not considered residents for tuition classification purposes. Because most undocumented students come from low-income families, this restriction effectively makes it impossible for them to continue their post-secondary education.

What do you think?

Sex Offender Registration and Fee Requisites, Too Tough?

Brighton city council considers a ordiance for Sex Offender Registration and Fee Requisites.

The Presentation by Roger McCarty of the Brighton Police Department, offering a request and support for an ordinance which would require sex offenders who do not properly present required registration fees to the City of Brighton to be cited for an offense.

Council’s overwhelming support for the measure was offset by Counicl member Daryl Meyers’ sentiments regarding the whether or not criminal offenders ought to be punished post-incarceration.

Daryl Meyers states, “...To keep sexual offenders (or any criminal offenders for that matter) incarcerated emotionally, psychologically, and socially for the rest of their lives is totally inappropriate and undermines the very process of recovery and support these people also need…”

Should Sexual Offenders be registered, assessed fees, and be treated differently than any other criminal offenders after they’ve served their time? A new Brighton ordinance adds more strength to mandatory registration & tracking. The opinions about the law differ. What do you think?

Commerce City General Issues March 2009

Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Brighton General Issues

Welcome, City of Brighton, we look forward to hearing your comments and concerns about Brighton.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments
and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Saint Valentine's Messages 2009

Show the one you Love just how much you Love them by posting a personal Valentine's Message.
Post directly, call your message in at 720-221-7352 or email your message at:
dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Commerce City General Issues February 2009

Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail:dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Council Member Jim Benson Removed From Appointed Positions

Commerce City Council voted 7 to 2 to remove Council Member Jim Benson from appointed positions effective immediately.

What do you think?

Blog Gate, what do you think?

The very first rule of the SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER CONDUCT “Working Together” document by the Colorado Association of School Boards is stated as follows: “We (BOE members) will treat each other and the employees, students and community members with dignity and respect.”

On January 7th, 2009 Adams County School District #14 Board of Education Vice President, Robert Vashaw, abruptly removed his web log (http://drjohnlange.blogspot.com).

The web log contained negative and hostile comments about CCBPA (Commerce City Business and Professionals Association), former Adams County School District 14 Superintendent Dr. John Lange, Commerce City Council Member Kathy Teter, Commerce City Mayor Paul Natale, Teachers of Adams County School District #14 (calling them “rejects from the Denver Public School System”), The Gateway News Staff, citizens Richard Ford and John Zeiler and the most disturbing, a child that lives in the Adams County 14 school district.

For a long time it was unknown who owned the anonymous web log (http://drjohnlange.blogspot.com). I, Dustin McIntyre of the Gateway News, personally asked on two separate occasions whom the owner of the web log was with no response either time I asked.

It took a Gateway News reader, Mr. Sato from Osaka Japan, to reveal that by going back into the Gateway News own web log archives, a comment left by Board of Education Vice President Robert Vashaw on September 15th of 2008 at 10:33 pm linked back to the web log http://drjohnlange.blogspot.com.

On January 7th at 8:47am Mr. Sato posted on the gatewaynew.org web log the three step process of how to reveal the owner (Robert Vashaw) of the site http://drjohnlange.blogspot.com. Within hours the site was deleted. It should be noted that the site http://drjohnlange.blogspot.com was created right after the firing of Superintendent Dr. John Lange by Board of Education Vice President Robert Vashaw.

Robert Vashaw has the right to form or publish any opinion that he wants, it is America. With that being said, Robert Vashaw is also an elected official to the Adams County District #14 Board of Education and as far as I know agreed to obey the “Working Together” document provided by Colorado Association of School Boards also known as CASB. The question has also come up of what legal consequences there might be now that Vice President Robert Vashaw has published comments about a child in the district.

*SEE COMMENTS FOR NEW DEVELPOMENTS ON THIS ON GOING SAGA

Only Positive, Positive, Positive

The universe needs balance!

Web logs have a tendency to negative at times. That is why this section will only be all about positive comments.
Promote anything positive, commend a citizen, business, city staff, or God forbid even a politician!

Positive comments can be posted directly, called in at
(720) 221-7352, emailed to:
dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Or just tell us in person.

Commerce City General Issues January 2009

Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.E-mail:

dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com
Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

New art at City Hall, what do you think?

What are your feelings of the art piece at city hall, called "Grandmother Earth"?

This piece created by Iris Scadden is intended to depict Commerce City's ties to the land and our historical past while looking forward to a bright future.

What's your opinion?

"The feelings with which the artist infects others may be most various - very strong or very weak, very important or very insignificant, very bad or very good: feelings of love for one's own country, self-devotion and submission to fate or to God expressed in a drama, raptures of lovers described in a novel, feelings of voluptuousness expressed in a picture, courage expressed in a triumphal march, merriment evoked by a dance, humor evoked by a funny story, the feeling of quietness transmitted by an evening landscape or by a lullaby, or the feeling of admiration evoked by a beautiful arabesque - it is all art."

- Leo Tolstoy

Commerce City General Issues December 2008

Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Adams County School District #14 Issues NEW

Budgets, Board Members, Dr. Lange, New High School, CSAP, Charter Schools, Transportation Department, anything else you can think of, we welcome all comments about the issues that surrounding the Adams County School District #14.

This new section has been created upon requests from the voters of Adams County School District #14.

If you are unable to leave a comment, please e-mail comments to dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Thank you to all who have the courage enough to voice your opinions.

Commerce City General Issues November 2008

Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

By posting here, the Gateway News reserves the right to also print your opinions in the Gateway News printed newspaper. If you do not wish to also be in the printed Gateway News paper include your request with your comment to the e-mail address below.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail:

dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Commerce City General Issues October 2008

Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Adams County School District #14 General Issues

Budgets, Board Members, Dr. Lange, New High School, CSAP, Charter Schools, Transportation Department, anything else you can think of, we welcome all comments about the issues that surrounding the Adams County School District #14.

Commerce City General Issues September 2008

Another month has past and once again it has been a very interesting education of your thoughts and concerns. Thank you to all that have posted and we look forward to hearing more of your comments and concerns.

If you are confused about how to post on the blog or feel more comfortable e-mailing me your comments and concerns, please do so and we will post it for you.

E-mail: dustin.mcintyre@yahoo.com

Dustin McIntyre, Gateway News and gatewaynews.org

Commerce City General Issues August 2008

It has been requested that the gatewaynews.org create a comment section that is organized into larger areas wherein numerous issues can be commented on. These will be renewed on a monthly basis.

Commerce City General Issues July 2008

It has been requested that the gatewaynews.org create a comment section that is organized into larger areas wherein numerous issues can be commented on. These will be renewed on a monthly basis. This first area will be the City of Commerce City including such subjects as: city council, ordinance and resolutions, the Commerce City Police Department, Neighborhood Services, city budget, etc.