The program begins with a retreat in which he group can bond and learn about their fellow participants.  One day a month the group attends a day class learning about various aspects of the community.

Dale and I are both graduates of the program and he is the liaison for the chamber board on this program committee.  Dale was asked to sit on a panel of three and discuss his involvement in Leadership Aurora and how he is involved in the community.  We both heartily endorse this program and hope that each participant will gain knowledge of our great city.

At the end of the retreat, Dale and I decided to stay on and enjoy the mountains and some of the city of Breckenridge. We wanted to hike and drive around some of mountain trails near the town.  We enjoyed tasting a little of the local food as well.  We started with a tasting at the Breckenridge Distillery eating some tasty appetizers as well there.  Later on, we continued on and enjoyed dinner at another local restaurant.  Last we dined on rolled ice cream at Stir Pan Creamery.  The ice cream was created right in front of our eyes.   

Best wishes to the class of 2019-2020.

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Marsha Berzins has lived in Aurora for many years.  She currently serves on city council as the Ward III representative.  She has a B.S. in Economics and Business Administration.

Mike Coffman who served as he U.S. Representative for five terms.  At one time, he held the position of Secretary of State and later Treasurer for the State of Colorado.  He has a military background and served in the Gulf War.  He has a bachelor's degree in Political Science.

Ryan Frazier is also running for Mayor.  He served in the Navy.  His past experience includes working as a city councilman for two terms.

Tiffany Grays is another candidate running for Mayor.  She is a last minute entry.  Graduating from a local high school, she lived most her life in Aurora.  She has a bachelor's degree in information security systems.

Omar Montgomery is also a candidate for Mayor.  He participated in several boards both for the city and nonprofits around this area.  He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal Justice and master's degrees in public administration and education.

Renie Peterson is the last candidate running for Mayor.  She has served in Aurora as Ward II Councilman from 2008 to 2017.  

The event allowed each candidate to speak one minute on each of the questions asked.  At the end each was given two minutes to express why they would make a good Mayor for the city of Aurora.

MayoralForum1Candidates for Mayor of Aurora MayoralForum1Candidates for Mayor of Aurora

15PLopez255 15PLopez423 15PLopez486-2 15PLopez511 15PLopez756 15PLopez873-2 15PLopez917 The event typically begins with Mass as the local Catholic Church.  Once it has ended photographs are typically taken of not only family but also friends.  The young lady will often have up to 14 attendants (called her Court) and she rounds out the number to 15 symbolizing her age.  The Mass is followed by a Fiesta and sometimes a dance by the Court.  At this event, she requested her Uncles and Cousins dance with her as well.  Once the formal dances were completed, a birthday cake was presented and cut for everyone to enjoy.  Once everyone had eaten their fill of cake, the dance floor was opened up for all guests to enjoy.

She is such a lovely young lady, both in looks and in kind heart.  We enjoyed getting to know her friends as well.   Happy Birthday!

On day five we spent the day on the ship.  It was another opportunity to relax and we knew we should take advantage of it.  We went to the movies and spent time playing cards.  That evening was formal night.  We dressed for dinner and headed to the evening show.  It was Aladdin.  Will Smith played the Genie.

We were on to more cities to photograph.  The next cities included Nice, France ad Monte Carlo, Monaco.

On day six, we stopped at Villefranche, France was our port and from there we took a bus into Nice.  Nice - (Angel Bay) French Riviera - What a delightful city with an ocean, light blue in color.  The beach was rocky and not sandy though.  Old town had a lovely market with soap, flowers, and food.  The local treat was a savory crepe called Succa made from chick peas.  It was full of shops and places to dine.  Medium bricks were used during mid evil times to build with.  Many of the buildings have windows painted on the north side due to the taxes on real windows. 

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Monte Carlo, Monaco

we stayed at Apartments de Louvre – St Honore.  They were a block from the Louvre and close to the train station.  Just north of the Louvre and to the right of our apartment we found a vibrant bohemian area we would like to explore more.  We walked around the Louvre grounds and underground shopping.  We snacked on cheese, bread and wine (Cotes Du Rhone).

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The next morning, we got up and headed for the Eiffel Tower.  We had a ticket to the top, a boat ride along the river Seine and a walking tour of the city which would have included the Cathedral of Notre Dame had it not just caught fire.  Our guide was Eric from ParisTour1.  Eric worked hard to make sure we got to see as much as possible on our tour.  The Eiffel Tower was late in opening and actually closed to the top that morning, but Eric made us feel that was not a problem. He was able to squeeze in many unexpected sites as well as give us additional details only a local would know. We walked into the Latin Quarter and tasted both savory and sweet crepes. We learned not only about architecture (both Roman and gothic), history, and food but also some about the personalities and lifestyles of the French.  It felt like our own personal tour but at a group tour price!

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In the Latin Quarter we learned that the streets that drained in the center of the street had dumping and draining issues.  The Gargoyles had holes in them, and dirty water was sent out into the street by these holes.  The should it made was a gurgling sound thereby giving the gargoyles their name.  People passing below were warned of the oncoming water with the a called something like Luvolou, Luvolou, Luvolou.  The word “use the Lou,” is said to come from.

We also saw the Police building that still carries the bullet holes from World War Two.  We also learned the Fleur de Lis was the symbol of Royalty and therefore not very popular.

We visited the Sainte Chapelle, filled with beautiful stained glass.  It was amazing to think of all the royalty that once stood in the same place we were.

On the third day, we purchased tickets to the Louvre Museum.  We had learned from Eric it was over 9 miles long and would take 25 days to see all the art in the museum.  Therefore, we decided to see the highlights and come back again some time.  These are some of what we saw:

• The Mona Lisa 
•  Winged Victory of Samothrace
• Psyche Revived by Cupid's Kiss 
• The Venus de Milo 
• The Raft of the Medusa
• Liberty Leading the People 
• The Coronation of Napoleon
• Sleeping Hermaphroditus 
• Lasmasu
• Dying slave & rebellious slave
• Grande odalisque by Ingres 
• Botticelli’s Venus with Three Graces (1483-1486)

After our tour at the Louvre, we decided it was time to give our feet a break, so we hoped on a Red Bus and toured the north end of the city by the Moulin Rouge and Montmarte.  We also rode around the Arc de Triomphe, the Modern Museum of Art and along the shopping area of Champs-Elysees.

We ended our day with dinner on a riverboat along the Siene.  Dale had Escargo and Steak Tartar.  I had Salmon.  We took a late night cruise along the river again and then took pictures of the Eiffel Tower lite at night, other statutes and the Louvre.

Day 3

We began our day with a French breakfast near the Museum D’Orsay.  The building was an old train station that had been converted in to an art museum.  There we saw the works of:

Millet

Courbet

Frederic Bazille

Claude Monet (he loved the light and painted 60 prints of the light in a cathedral which all but 6 are around the world.  He loved his gardens and painted a lot of them.  In the end he was going blind and it seems his painting reflected this

Edouard Manet

Toulouse-Lautrec  (Moulin Rouge artist)

Pierre Renoir (he usually painted happy scenes)

Edgar Degas (he was fascinated with how the body moved and horses)

Mary Cassett

Paul Cezanne (he was a cubist and not too good at painting humans)

Vincet van Gogh (stories of his ear are that he cut it off because his friend was leaving or that they got into a fight and  Gauguin cut off his ear by accident and van Gogh did not want him to get into trouble.  His death is said to be either a suicide or that kids stabbed him, and he did not want them to get in trouble so he did not tell anyone.)

Paul Guiguin(left his wife and kids and went to live on an island

We walked behind one of two of the clocks in the building and looked out at the city.

Last we saw an exhibit on black art in France.

That evening we headed up to the Moulin Rouge.  What a wonderful show.  We had fish for dinner and champagne.  Our show included singing, dancing, and wonderful costumes.  There was a juggling act, a balancing act, a lady swam with pythons in a big water tank, 6 miniature horses and a roller-skating act.  It was a wonderful show that we really enjoyed.

It was our last day and we prepared to head home.  We headed out for one last breakfast in Paris and then to the subway for a ride to the airport.   By the time we got home we had almost been up 24 hours.  We were exhausted but we cleaned out our suitcases and went to bed.  What an amazing trip!!

We stopped in Livorno.  We rode to the city of Lucca.  A walled city of 8,000 inhabitants and once 99 churches which now is 47.  There is a beautiful colosseum which has now been converted into apartments, shops and restaurants.  The city was beautiful with its narrow streets and wonderful shops.  We stopped and purchased a beautiful scarf at Zazzi.  The shop had woven these scarves of silk.  A local artist created the design of several of their scarves.

We enjoyed lunch and wine at a local restaurant.  The type of wine we had was local to the region.  It was a MonteCarlo.

We got back on the bus and headed to Pisa.  They were currently letting 40 people up at a time, but we were unable to go as we did not have enough time.  We walked around the tower and the buildings near Pisa.  There was a Cathedral, a Mausoleum and a museum.  There are even some trees that sank like the tower.  I was amazed how beautiful the architecture of the tower.  The pillars are made of different materials and there is beautiful work designed into the buildings.  The city begins right at the edge of this square and appears to be a charming town.

2019Europe-340 The walled city of Lucca.

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The leaning tower of Pisa

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2019ScholarDinner12View from the Firstbank Corporate Office 2019ScholarDinner12View from the Firstbank Corporate Office

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Once everyone had completed their dinner, we proceeded into their board room.  The scholars learned more about Firstbank and its history.  They were also given information on banking, saving and loans.

Brian Sowl spoke next from Nelnut spoke to scholars about student loans.  Nelnet is the largest student loan servicer in the world.  It is a company based in Aurora, Colorado.  Thomas spoke about the history of Nelnet and how they had to reinvent their company when the government changed the way student loans were created.  The company also has several other projects that diversify Nelnet and their work.

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It was another successful event for the students of Adams 14 school district.   The Adams 14 Education Foundation has more need than ever to have us help them educate tomorrow's talent.  To learn more about the efforts of the foundation, please click on this link. Adams 14 Education Foundation.

We arrived at Civitavecchia (pronounced Chitavekia) and traveled for about 2 hours by bus to Rome.  There we were given about 1 ½ hours of free time to see some of the city.  Dale and I walked by the Castel Sant Angelo and Corte Suprema di Cassazione then on to Piazza Navona.  This was a beautiful square with a fountain and statues. 

We walked on, we saw many fountains and statutes.  We walked over to the Pantheon but did not go in.  I had hoped we could go see the Trevi Fountain, but we could not locate it.  We headed back to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica for our tour here.  The chapel was so beautiful with its paintings by Michelangelo.  The museum was full of Frescos (painting directly on the walls), art work and statutes.  The Basilica is one of the largest and held the preserved bodies of some of the last popes for viewing.
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When the volcano flowed it caught many folks unprepared that they were caught in the lava flow and turned to stone.  Those that got away just abandoned the city rather than rebuilding.  What an interesting city to be left abandoned.

As we left the ruins of Pompeii, we stopped at a shop and tasted some Limoncello.  There were several different options.  I tasted one which our tour director recommended.  It was a creamy Limoncello and is probably something I would not need to try again.  They did have fantastic jewelry made from the lava that had once flowed.  It included different crystal glass.

Back in Naples, we toured a Cameo factory.  We learned that Cameos are made from special sea shells.  They did beautiful work.  The one activity I had hoped to do was to enjoy a pizza here.  Not feeling well, it was probably best we did not have time.

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2019Europe-1482019 Disney Cruise Ship Our trip and itinerary are as follows:

Day One was a day at sea.  We caught up on laundry and enjoyed a movie, The Avengers, Endgame.  It was playing of the big onboard movie theater.

Day Two we spent in Naples and Pompeii.

Day Three we arrived to Civitavecchia, where we hoped on a bus to Rome.

Day Four we stopped in Livorno.  From there we took a bus to a small town called Lucca.  Later we traveled on to Piza.

Day Five as another day to relax on the cruise ship.

Day Six we stopped in Villefranche, France and took a bus to Nice.  Our tour guide showed us some of wha this wonderful city has to offer.  We hopped back on our bus and headed over to the City of Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Our trip gave us a great opportunity to get a taste of what was offered at each of these locations.  We now know more of what we liked and want to see more of.  It will be our plan to sometime return to many of these locations again in the future.  In the next few blogs, I will write about some of the spots we hope to go back and see more of.

As Elemintal Photography, we set out to take as many photographs as possible on this trip.  We woke up early and headed for a tour of Sagrada Familia. The builders schedule is to now complete it in the next five to ten years.  After completing the tour, we walked up to Park Guell.  It was the grounds and home of the architect Gaudi who designed Sagrada Familia as well as Casa Mila Apartments and Casa Batillo (House of Bones). 

That evening we again set out up the street.  We walked to a small theater where we watched Flamico dancing.  Dinner was served with the dancing and we dined on tasty Paella and drank refreshing Sangria.

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2019SagradaFamiliaInside the church Sagrada Familia

The next day we again headed out for another tour.  We met our tour guide and walked around La Rambla.  A beautiful street designed for walking patrons of the shops and restaurants.  We headed the Picasso Museum where we toured paintings that Picasso’s assistant had.  Our guide said they were not necessarily his best work, but they had special value to his assistant.  At a young age, Picasso’s Father recognized that Picasso was very talented and so he guided him trained him.  We saw works from many times in his life including some of his pottery.  Our tour guide, then walked us around some of the gothic parts of the city a bit more.   At the end, Dale and I walked to a market off La Rambla where we ate and did some shopping.  Our next stop was at Palau de la Musica Catalana and toured this beautiful building designed for choirs and concerts.  We later returned to hear Yoyo Ma play the Cello.

Our last day we took the funicular up the mountain to Montjuic.  We did not have the time to enter but instead walked the perimeter.  It was time to head on to our next adventure.

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We are headed for our first trip to Europe.  So many years we planned to go but we always found somewhere in or near the United States we wanted to do first.  Well it is finally time.  With our cameras in hand ready to take photographs, we set out on our adventures.

Our first stop was in Iceland.  We traveled overnight making it in around 9 am.  We rented a car so we could see some of this beautiful country.  We started out on our adventure heading to a local lighthouse for a view of the coast.  It was breathtaking.  After that we headed to Reykjavik and drove around the town and to another lighthouse.  We realized we were tired so we headed to our hotel.

Our hotel was a contemporary spot on the waterfront.  Icelandic Marina Hotel.  Our room was very small but functional. The balcony was seemed larger than the room.  We dropped everything and fell onto bed for a few hours. Waking feeling more humane, we headed out and walked around. Shops closed at 5 but the sun doesn’t set until 10:53 pm.  I actually found the sky to appear like dusk most of the night. 

We go up and headed out of town for a trip around part of the country called the Golden circle.  We stopped at the North American side of the tectonic plates and viewed the Euro Tectonics Plates in the distance.  The ranger told us we were actually in the valley between the plates and that the valley is sinking.  It is about 7 miles distance between the two.

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We stopped at Stokkur Geyser which it actually had several geysers there.  The main one erupted every 6 minutes or so.  People were walking all over this area.  The was a hotel, hot springs pool, retaurant and a large gift shop here.

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We headed on to Gullfoss Falls.  These were beautiful falls reminding me of Niagra Falls although you are unable to take a boat to see these.  The falls are very wide and long and curve as the water falls over the steepest part of the cliff.  We hiked up to the falls and watched the water rushing around us.  Everyone was out taking photographs of the landscape.

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Our next stop was Kerid Crater.  It is a deep crater now filled with water.   We walked around the top and then the base near the water.  This crater was formed due to a collapse in water running underground as part of a volcano explosion.  I capture this bird making its home here.

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We headed on to Keflavik by way of a coastal road not traveled much. Here we saw beautiful site of salt and moss growing on the volcanic rocks laying now solid on the ground.  We headed on to our next hotel, Hotel Jazz.  We laughed as we got 3 shampoo, 3 shower caps and no soap or wash clothes.  Great hotel otherwise.  I would stay here again as well as it is so close to the airport.  Breakfast was also served, European style with cheese and tomatoes.

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That night we dined of something we had not expected.  Dale had whale steak for dinner which he nor I will ever have again. I had Arctic Char (like salmon). It was very good.  We enjoyed Iceland very much and plan to come back and complete the larger circle and to see the northern lights.  If you love nature, Iceland is definitely worth seeing. 

Here are a couple of photographs from the event.

CC-Historical-SocietyCommerce City Historical Society recognizes Tim Moore

CCBPA-Community-Choice-Credit-UnionCommerce City Business Professionals recognizes Community Choice Credit Union

LCC visits ADCOMLeadership Commerce City visits ADCOM

Leadership Commerce City traveled over to the South Adams County Fire District.  They toured a fire house and learned what it takes to be a fireman.  This is a very interesting tour with a lot of information.

LCC at SACFDLeadership Commerce City tours South Adams County Fire Department

Last the group toured the Police department and learned more specifics about the police and the services they provide.  They toured a swat vehicle.  Chef Nichols encouraged everyone to learn more about community policing and thanked them for their continues support.

LLC in SWAT VehicleLeadership Commerce City touring Commerce City Police Department

The event was held at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotels, Stapleton.  The night began with a silent auction. Many local business as well as schools contributed items for the auction.  The foundation board brought in wine to be auctioned off as well.  This year folks could bid on items without being at the event thanks to a new electronic bidding program.  

After a wonderful meal, the program began with a fun game of "Heads or Tails", with guests purchasing one or two chances to win.  The prize was tickets to a Denver Bronco game.  A live auction was also held and a couple additional donated items were also auctioned off.  It was finally time ti award scholarships to the students and to hear their stories.  It was a wonderful night full of great stories and happy students.

2019 14er Fest Scholarship Recipients2019 Scholarship recipients for the Adams 14 Education Foundation 14er Fest Dinner

Next the class heard from Colonel Hopkins of the Colorado National Guard.  We learned of the number of divisions active in Colorado.  There are only a few full time individuals to manage all the troops in the Guard in Colorado.  These troops are called out to assist with fires, disasters and other events effecting our state.

The Leadership class dismissed and headed over to the Doubletree by Hilton, Denver to join the Aurora Chamber of Commerce in their celebration of Military Day.  The luncheon offers recognition to those enlisted serving on the Base at Buckley.  The program begins with recognizing the different branches of the Military and of close comrade countries stationed at Buckley.  The recognized the absent solders with a place set in remembrance.  Awards were given to those who excelled in their positions at the base.

Last, Leadership Commerce City headed into a room at the Doubletree to hear Mickey Hunt speak about what the state is doing for Veterans in Colorado.  He spoke of a recently opened facility in Grand Junction to serve veterans there.  He also spoke about the support he is receiving from the state to provide programs for the veterans in Colorado.  The day was filled with many interesting speakers and Elemintal Photography was again appreciative of the opportunity to participate.

Military Appreciation DayLeadership Commerce City attended the Aurora Chamber of Commerce Military Appreciation Day Lt Colonel Heery speaking to Leadership Commerce CityLeadership Commerce City learned about the classes at Adams City High School Colonel Hopkins speaking about the Colorado National GuardColonel Hopkins spoke to Leadership Commerce City about the Colorado National Guard Mikey Hunt, Colorado Veterans AffairsMikey Hunt spoke to Leadership Commerce City about the states involvement in veterans affairs

New Orleans FoodFlavors of New Orleans New Orleans LightsLights of New Orleans at night Commanders Palace, New OrleansNew Orleans restaurant called Commanders Palace Slidell Mardi Gras ParadeSlidell Mardi Gras Parade on the canals
 

This trip we knew we would catch a few Mardi Gras parades and they never disappoint.  There were several parades in and around the New Orleans area.  We even caught a boat or barge parade as they call it in Slidell.  As always the folks were friendly and having fun as we waited for the floats to come by.  The excitement of Mardi Gras always draws children and the throws are always interesting.

We stopped in to Conservation Hall to hear some wonderful Jazz music.  Each night different players gather to jam and perform.  You never know who might pop in to play with the band.

We ate at several new location to us.  These restaurants have been there but it is difficult to get to all of them as there is so many.  One of the first was Commanders Palace where is enjoyed Fish and Shrimp.  Of course, we did try the .25 cent martini's.  We also enjoyed brunch at Court of Two Sisters where we were able to enjoy many specialty dishes and listen to live jazz.  Pascale Manale was another great restaurant known for their barbequed shrimp.  We could not miss a couple favorites though, Cafe du Monde for beignets, Acme Oyster House for Oysters, and Napoleons for a Muffalata to go.

All in all it was an amazing trip and we came home full of all the tasty sites and smells of New Orleans in our thoughts.

Mr. Will spoke about the changes in American values and its effect on the economy.  He spoke about the changes in household structure and that this too is effecting the economy.  With technology changing so quickly it makes predicting the best possible jobs for the future more difficult.  Young adults graduating now need to different skill set than those of the past.  It appears to require a much more flexible skill set.  As Mr. Will drew to a close, he reminded everyone, we still live in the greatest country on the earth.  The changes we are seeing now can make us stronger in the future.  

Folks flocked to visit with Mr. Will and requested their photos to be taken with him.  It was another success for the Denver South Development Partnership.

Denver South Economic Development Partnership Luncheon Staff and GuestsDenver South Economic Development Partnership Luncheon Staff and Guests Attendees at DSEDP LuncheonDenver South Economic Development Partnership Luncheon CEO and Guests DSEDP Speaker George WillGuest speaker George F Will for Denver South Economic Development Partnership

Leadership Commerce visits the Water and Sanitation DistrictLeadership Commerce visits the Water and Sanitation District in Commerce City

Tour of Water and Sanitation DistrictTour of Water and Sanitation District in Commerce City

Rocky Mountain ArsenalLeadership Commerce City learns the history of Rocky Mountain Arsenal

Deer at Rocky Mountain ArsenalDeer at Rocky Mountain Arsenal as Leadership Commerce city toured the area

Buffalo at Rocky Mountain ArsenalBuffalo at Rocky Mountain Arsenal as Leadership Commerce City Tour

Repository at Rocky Mountain ArsenalLeadership Commerce City takes a tour of the Repository at Rocky Mountain Arsenal

This month's Leadership Commerce City visited the South Adams County Water and Sanitation District.  Elemintal Photography was there again to take photographs of the group as they traveled around.  The morning began with the class learning about the process to clean the water and deliver it to families.  Removal and recycling the water is also a big part of the district's responsibility.  Recycling the water can be as challenging as cleaning it the first time.  They district was planning to break ground on a new treatment facility the next week.  

We toured one of the district's plants and visited with the engineer who monitors the water.  He talked about the various set it takes to purify the water and then how they monitor and maintain its purification.  There are several steps in the process and it can be handled in many ways.  

Next, we headed over to Rocky Mountain Arsenal to learn of the arsenal's history from a local historian.  The class also heard from one of the Rangers on the Arsenal.  This prepared the class for our tour as we loaded into the bus.  The animals were out in abundance as we saw many Buffalo, deer and birds.

Our last stop of the day was the United States Repository.  They house all the illegal wildlife and pieces of wildlife confiscated for the whole country.  The warehouse was huge that housed all the poor creatures that lost their lives for human gain.  We did learn that the repository is distributing some of the items located in the warehouse to class rooms for others to learn from.  This is the first repository in the world to redistribute and they hope it will catch on with other countries.  Another program offered through the Repository is the redistribution of feathers from Bald and Golden Eagles to Native Americans.  Native Americans use the feathers and other bird materials in their religious ceremonies and costumes.  The repository collects the birds that have died in all manner of ways.  Native American's can petition for a bird to use as needed.  The Fish and Wildlife process the  requests and then ship out the birds or their feathers as requested.  It was another interesting day for Leadership Commerce City.

The event was held at STARS Early Education Center.  Governor Polis visited with the parents of several children in the school district as well as some of the staff from the school.  He visited several of the rooms in the STARS building.  Each is designed with an animal education based theme.

The funding is to help support Early Childhood Education in the district.

Polis Funds Adams 14 Education FoundationPolis presents Adams 14 Education Foundation with a check for Early Childhood Education 2019PolisFunds47-2 2019PolisFunds74

As the photographer, I wandered around taking photographs of various groups and I enjoyed chatting with folks and watching how calmly the auction was.  Later as everyone moved in for dinner, conversations continued.  Tables were full of guests coming to support their friends and co-workers who won awards.  There were ten awards handed out in total.  Awards ranged from Business of the year to Man and Woman of the Year.  Additional awards were handed out for Humanitarian and Business for the Arts as well as Humanitarian and Community Leader.  The past recipient came to the stage to congratulate the new recipient.  A video presentation of each winner told the story of each winner.

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To view additional photographs please click here on Elemintal Photography. 

At the end of the evening a dance floor was provided and music played allowing folks an opportunity to enjoy more time with their friends and family.  The Aurora Chamber knows how to put on a spectacular event. The Aurora Chamber does an excellent job developing programs to help our community and we appreciate the awards and work they do for us.

Next we headed over to the Capital to view the Floor of the Senate. Senator Dominic Moreno was on the floor and when the Senate dismissed to have a meeting with the House, he came and visited with the class.  Next we headed over to the Floor of the House where we sat in the balcony. It was Military Appreciation Day and we heard about several of the brave folks fighting for our country.  People from all over the state wrote in to thank the military and the letters were special to hear.    Day at the CapitalLeadership Commerce City visits the Colorado Capital building Senate Floor at Colorado Capital Leadership Commerce City visits the Capital

Later, the class toured the upper levels of the capital traveling all the way up to the dome.  The weather was nice so the view was exceptional.  Being a photographer, I always love the opportunity to take photographs from the dome.  Today though, Dale took the photographs for me as I had to step away for another commitment.   Once I was back I caught back up with the group.  They were finishing up the rest of the tour of the capital.  

It was another great learning day and I was happy to have the opportunity as Elemintal Photography to photograph this day.

2018 Ignite Event In ReunionCommunity Uplight Partnership held their annual Fund Raiser at their new home.

2018 Ignite Event for CUP2018 Ignite Event hosted by CUP in Reunion Colorado

There was a silent auction and a live auction as well.  Many of the guests were actually neighbors living near the coffee house.  It was a fun event with many exciting opportunities to help those in need. We look forward to more opportunities to see those in this community and to learn who CUP will be able to help with the funds from this event.

2018 Ignite Event at sunsetCommunity Uplight Partnership event at sunset

2018 Trick or Treat Street Event2018 Trick or Treat Street hosted by Commerce City Business Professionals

2018 Trick or Treat Street Kids2018 Trick or Treat Street Kids

The evening began with a few words from Megan.  Megan's mother worked at the Adams 14 School District office and Megan often came to help out at the CUP outreach in the basement of the district.  She is continuing to work for CUP and will be working in their new coffee shop in Reunion.  Next, Paul Sandos, Principal at Lester Arnold High School also came up to talk about the school and how CUP will partner with them to benefit students looking for work.

Fill your CUP Comedy Night Comedians

It was time for the comedians to take the stage.  First up was Samuel (Sam) Adams.  He was funny and spoke of many local activities and the humor in them.  The crowd enjoyed his humor and the evening was off to a great start.  Next came Kerri Pomarolli.  She spoke about her family and especially her antics with her daughters.  People were laughing as she made fun of herself and caring for her daughters.  At the end of the show, both comedians stood at the back and spoke with people that had attended.  Some asked for photograph with the comedians.  The evening was a lot of fun and we hope a great success for CUP as they open their doors to help those in the community.

2018 Cup Comedy Sam Adams2018 Cup Comedy Sam Adams, Comedian 2018 Cup Comedy Event2018 Cup Comedy Night with Kerri Pomarolli Comedian

As it was Dale and my wedding anniversary, we ate dinner at a fine eating establishment in New Orleans called Johnny Sanchez.  The food is an infusion of Mexican and Creole flavors.  There were many menu items containing fish and we all gravitate to that.  We all ordered something different and then shared with each other.  The atmosphere was contemporary as we looked around at our surroundings.  What a great top to a wonderful day!

New Orleans Mardi GrasNew Orleans Mardi Gras New Orleans Addie and AngelNew Orleans Addie and Angel

Shrimp Po Boy and Red Beans and RiceShrimp Po Boy and Red Beans and Rice

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Adams 14 Education Foundation hosted a dinner for the students it has awarded scholarships to over the past few years.  The hope of the Foundation is to not only help the students to earn a degree in higher education but to also equip them for the future.  Debra Bullock, owner of  Bullock Estate Services, made a presentation on etiquette in professional situations.  The discussion ranged from hand shakes and introductions to proper utensils to use at the dinner table.  

Students were given the opportunity to test their new learned skills on board members from the Foundation.  Dale Mingilton is the director of the Foundation and he feels it is very important for students to be equipped with knowledge of this type.  It is also an opportunity to meet with the students and check on their progress and studies.  As always Elemintal Photography is proud to support the Adams 14 Education Foundation.

The event was a big success with students and board members all learning a little more about the working together.  It is the hope of the Adams 14 Education Foundation that the students of the Adams 14 School District will be prepared for the future.

Santa arrived by Fire Truck

Santa arrives by Adams County Fire Department fire trucks.  The firemen assist Santa with his arrival so the reindeer are able to rest for Christmas Eve.  

2018 Winter FestSanta is delivered to Winter Fest by the Adams County Fire Department in Commerce City

The choirs from the various schools around provide wonderful music for families to enjoy.  Breakfast was a tasty pancake on a stick with a surprise sausage in the middle.  Adams City High School hosts the event in their building and it is decorated like a children's wonderland. 

The Mayor and many of the folks on City Council stop by to say "Hello" to Santa and the children.  You may even see them helping the children with the activities provided.  Adams 14 Education Foundation provides a scholarship for the winner of the gingerbread house activity.  What a wonderful exciting day for the children as we user in the holidays for all. 

Winter Fest PhotosSanta visits with children and families at Winter Fest Winter Fest PhotosSanta visits with children and families at Winter Fest

2018 South Adams County Fire StationSouth Adams County Fire Station hosts event to honor retirees from their board.

South Adams County Fire Event was held for swearing in new board members and a retirement party for those retiring. Elemintal Photography was asked to help commemorate the event by taking photographs the activities of the evening.  The meeting began with the fire fighters own team of color guard in a flag recognition ceremony.  Next, the new board members were first sworn in with great pomp and circumstance durning their regular meeting.  One of the new members was not actually able to make it.  Debra was able to phone in and say a few words about coming on the board.  Debra also congratulated the gentlemen retiring.  The board discussed old and new business in a short meeting and then the meeting was dismissed for the outdoor portion.

South Adams County Fire Event Honors Two Retirees

The outdoor portion of the evening began with bag pipes and a fire fighters standing at attention.  Two fire trucks that were not is service also brought in to decorate the event.  Elemintal Photography was able to capture some great photos of their event and the special touches added for such an event.

The honorees were actually two firefighters for the district that had retired.  They decided they could continue to help out their community by continuing on the board.  Their vast knowledge and experience was a great help to the district.  Each of them were given an opportunity to say something and they were each given a beautiful brass fire station bell.  The retirees were also recognized by the fire fighter union.

At the of the event people gathered for food, drink and a special cake created in their honor.  It was a wonderful evening and all those attending enjoyed the opportunity to visit and thank the gentlemen for their service to the community.

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2018 14er fest, Adams 14 Education Foundation2018 14er fest, Adams 14 Education Foundation

Donors of scholarship dollars announce on stage the winner or winners of the funds they had donated.  They winners received a certificate to note the funds awarded. A live auction was held about mid way through the program which was also a great fund raising success.

2018 14er Fest Scholarship Recipients2018 14er Fest Scholarship Recipients

The last of the scholarship recipients received their awards. Photographs of all the students as well another photo of the students and their counselors at the end of the evening.  The evening was another great success.  Thank you to all you donated as well as those that came and participated.  It means a lot to the students in the school district of Adams 14.  The students know that others do care and want them to succeed and to be successful in their futures.  I am sure we will see many of these scholarship recipients giving back to their community in the future.

2018 14er Fest Scholarship Dinner2018 14er Fest Scholarship Dinner

Leadership Commerce City Graduation was held on June 22, 2018.  The event was held at the Rapids Soccer Field.  This is the third group of people to graduate from this event.  Leaders in the community apply to become at part of the class.  Each month the class meets and learns about various part of the Commerce City community.  It is the hope of Dale Mingilton the director of Leadership Commerce City that some of the graduates will learn more about their community and be able to take on bigger roles.  So many boards are looking for good qualified individuals that know about the community to step up.  In a world of computers and technology and with so many issues demanding out time, it makes it hard for people to want to commit.  On the other hand, it is also difficult for those that do want to help to really know where they are needed.  This program helps with that.  Class participants go around to the various areas in the community and learn more about them.  They can then decide where they can be most helpful with their skills.

2018 Leadership Commerce City Grad2018 Leadership Commerce City Graduate

Leadership Commerce City Graduation ends a great success

The graduates came along with a guest to the event.  Breakfast was served.  Brian from the Denver Botanic Gardens came and gave a very inspirational speech to the class about leadership.  Each of the graduates then received their book from the year at class with their notes and information.  Elemintal Photography took a photograph of each of the graduates along with the plaque they were also given.  Friendships were made and bonds created from this year of learning and I think each class member enjoyed the opportunity to participate.  Each graduate learned a little more about their community than they knew before.  It was another great day in Commerce City.

2018 Leadership Commerce City Graduating Class2018 Leadership Commerce City Graduating Class

3-18 Aurora Chamber Awards Dinner2018 Aurora Chamber of Commerce Awards Dinner

Elemintal Photography is always pleased to be selected by the Aurora Chamber to photograph their Annual Awards Dinner Event.  We have been members of the Aurora Chamber since opening the doors of Elemintal Photography in 2001.  We are often asked to photograph their special events and one of our favorite is the annual dinner.  The theme was "All that Jazz," and it made our job of photographing guests very fun and easy.   The attire was from the era of "Great Gatsby" and the roaring twenties.  The guests really liked the theme and there were many that participated.  There were zoot suits and flapper dresses.  Accessories were also very popular.  You can also see long cigarettes, pearls, jewels, stoles and other accessories.  Spectator shoes were popular with the men and women were wearing feathers and jeweled headbands and hair pieces.

3-18Aurora Chamber Awards DinnerAurora Chamber Awards Dinner-All That Jazz Guests

It is a fun time as many old friends in the community have a chance to re-connect.  The Aurora Chamber has great staff to plan and prepare for this event.  Elemintal Photography is always honored to be involved.  Cheers!

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