by Ashe in America | Jun 20, 2024 | Feature Story Bottom Left
The primary is happening now, so be sure to get out and vote. so is the race for petition signatures. Election season is in full swing, and it’s not just candidates and campaigns fighting for your support in November. It includes many lobbies and their ballot initiatives as well.
It’s rumored that the November 5 ballot is going to be as thick as a book, with an overwhelming number of issues coming before Centennial State voters. Ballot initiatives can hit the ballot one of two ways: The People or the General Assembly.
The People
If the people craft an amendment, get it through the Title Board, and gather enough signatures, then their initiative will be included on the ballot.
Two such populist ballot initiatives have already qualified, with many still in the signature gathering stage.
- Abortion Access and Funding (Constitutional Amendment): Amends the state’s constitution to enshrine abortion into law and removes a constitutional ban that prevents state money from going to abortion services. Because this measure is adding text to the constitution, it will need at least 55% to pass.
- Property Tax Cap: A proposed cap on property taxes that kicks in whenever property tax revenues are expected to grow faster than 4% per year for the entire state. Critics of the cap are concerned about inequities as property tax rates vary from city to city and county to county.
Many other groups are still gathering signatures for a wide range of initiatives. For example, there are three proposed Constitutional Amendments focused on preserving caucus and banning ranked choice voting and jungle primaries. Learn more at ColoradoCounts.com, and be sure to sign the petitions so that Colorado voters can decide how we want our elections administered — rather than billionaire special interests.
The Legislature
In addition to the people’s initiatives, there are also seven referred by lawmakers during the last legislative session, which are summarized here below from CPR reporting and the Bill Text on the Colorado General Assembly website.
- Changes to Election Deadlines (Constitutional Amendment): This constitutional amendment, requiring 55% to pass, designates earlier deadlines for various election activities to give the Secretary of State and county clerks more time to finalize the ballots. There are tradeoffs, including that the People will now have less time to collect signatures.
- Removing the Same-Sex Marriage Ban (Constitutional Amendment): The initiative would strike a portion of the state constitution that reads: “Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.” Because the measure removes, rather than adds, to the state constitution, it only needs a simple majority of voter support.
- No Bail for First Degree Murder Defendants (Constitutional Amendment): Requiring 55% to pass, this constitutional amendment would make first-degree murder suspects ineligible for bail. This change stems from an unintended consequence of Colorado’s repeal of the death penalty in 2020, which states that only people charged with “capital offenses” can be denied bail — and first-degree murder no longer meets that criterion.
- New Judicial Discipline Board (Constitutional Amendment): Following a string of judicial scandals, this amendment establishes a new independent judicial discipline board, made up of judges, attorneys and members of the public. Requiring 55% to pass, the referred constitutional measure cleared the legislature nearly unanimously.
- Expanding Veteran Access to Property Tax Exemptions (Constitutional Amendment): Currently, what’s known as the homestead exemption is limited to veterans with a service-related disability rated as 100% permanent. If 55% if voters agree, eligibility will expand to cover around 3,400 more veterans. The constitutional amendment cleared the state legislature unanimously.
- New Tax on Guns & Ammo: A 6.5% excise tax on gun and ammunition sales, to be paid by gun dealers, gun manufacturers, and ammunition vendors (and likely passed through to customers). The money raised by the tax would supposedly fund behavioral health and gun violence prevention.
- TABOR Exemption for Sports Betting: Asks voters to let the Colorado government keep and spend all of the tax revenue it collects from sports betting, originally estimated to yield about $29 million each year. State economists now believe the 10% tax will bring in significantly more than that in coming years, and state officials are addicted to spending.
There will likely be additional measures following the signature deadline in August. Colorado voters need to pay attention this election season and vote their values, or we may have a whole new state constitution soon.
Either way, this year’s ballot is going to be a beast.
Ashe in America is a writer and activist. Find all her work at linktree.com/asheinamerica.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Uncategorized
by Mark Smiley
The Fortunate Prospector: The English Pub opened in April 2024 adding to the footprint of the Grand Lodge.
Gaylord Rockies Resort has a brand-new grand lodge experience just six years after opening its doors. The large fountain and train have been removed in favor of a new experience. The Fortunate Prospector and Embers Lodge Bar were the two major components of a Grand Lodge redesign in April 2024.
The Fortunate Prospector
The resort’s new English pub seats 134 and is situated on the right side of the Grand Lodge. Inspired by the dark coziness of famous taverns across the pond and subtle nods to Colorado mining history, The Fortunate Prospector features detailed woodwork balancing both modern amenities and classic design elements from the Victorian era. Also, the menu features a beer list with local breweries such as the Bull & Bush Brewery.
The menu pulls inspiration from traditional English roots featuring fish & chips, bangers and mash, Shepherd’s pie, and sticky toffee pudding. The seating, whether it be inside the pub, or outside of it with a view of the Grand Lodge, is comfortable.
Embers Lodge Bar
Embers Lodge Bar has a 360-degree wrap-around bar with a spacious seating area accommodating up to 248 guests. Set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, it serves as a place to gather around two grand fireplaces to enjoy light snacks, Colorado-inspired cocktails, and panoramic views.
The menu features oysters and barbacoa sliders with drinks such as Ziggy Stardust, featuring a custom choice of vodka and spice level (mild, medium, hot), topped with a flamed cinnamon pour over. Embers has replaced the bar, Pinyons, and the Après Ski Village space.
“The average hotel renovates every seven to 10 years, but we are adding more spaces for group and leisure customers only five years after opening our doors in 2018,” said Suzy Hart, general manager of Gaylord Rockies Resort. “We are laser focused on continual investment in both meeting spaces and food and beverage experiences that are beyond the extraordinary. It’s an impressive feat for the team and the reason we are trailblazers in bringing people together.”
Enhancements will continue into 2024. Stay tuned for more information in this publication on what to expect later in the year.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Glendale City News
Resort’s Summer Festivities Continue Through September 2
by Mark Smiley
Lazy River: Gaylord Rockies features a 720-foot-long lazy river with waterfalls, water jets, and bubblers.
Event Space: The addition of an event lawn with 10,000-square-feet of artificial turf area, four fire pits, and two natural boulder fire features, were part of a $22 million exterior enhancement project. Adjacent to the Grand Lodge lawn is a games lawn featuring artificial turf, family-friendly games such as bocce ball, corn hole, and giant chess, as well as three firepits where guests can roast s’mores.
Gaylord Rockies Resort is in the midst of their fifth annual summer celebration that continues through September 2, 2024. The itinerary of summer entertainment also includes the resort’s exclusive waterpark Arapahoe Springs, with slides and a 720-foot winding lazy river, 10,000-square-foot Grand Lodge Lawn and Games Lawn, a wide variety of culinary cuisine, and experiential classes, and relaxation in a full-service spa.
Dining
Throughout the resort, there are dining options, including steaks and an impressive wine list at Old Hickory Steakhouse, casual American fare in front of a 75-foot flat-panel TV at Mountain Pass Sports Bar, and experiential and new dining options, including: Old Hickory Master Cocktail Classes and Master French Wine Classes, British Beer Tastings, as well as the launch of two new outlets, The Fortunate Prospector and Embers Lodge Bar.
The Old Hickory Master French Wine Class ($50 per person) is a new offering at the resort. During t
Resort: Gaylord Rockies is a resort that features 1,501 rooms, a 720-foot winding lazy river, and a 10,000-square-foot grand lodge lawn and games lawn.
his one-hour adults-only experience, wine experts at the resort will guide guests as they explore a variety of wines paired with cheese. They are available on the following Saturdays: July 13, July 27, August 10, August 24 at 3 p.m.
Another new offering is the British Beer Tasting ($25 per person). Guests will sample three classic British-inspired beer cocktails — Half and Half, Snake Bite, and Shandy — and learn the history of these unique British drinks. These are offered on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday; 4-5 p.m.
The Old Hickory Master Cocktail Class ($50 per person) is a one hour tour of expert guidance delving into the world of mixology capped off by crafting two cocktails alongside master bartenders. These are offered on select Saturdays; July 6, July 20, August 3, August 17, August 31 at 3 p.m.
Activities
One of the newest activities at the Gaylord Rockies Resort is the Topgolf Suite. The Topgolf Swing Suite features two simulator bays and a variety of virtual games — including signature Topgolf target games, Zombie Dodgeball, Hockey, Baseball, Football, Carnival games, and more — paired with comfortable lounge seating, HDTVs, and food and beverage service.
“As Colorado’s largest combined resort and convention center, we are experts in providing extraordinary spaces for gatherings. Our partnership with Topgolf allows us to offer another fun and unique experience for quests,” said Suzy Hart, general manager of the 1,501-room resort. “Since Full Swing simulators come with games tailored for both novices and experienced golfers, all participants can enjoy themselves.”
Up to eight people can play, eat, drink, and hang out in each bay. The space will be available to rent for business and social gatherings, including birthday and bachelorette/bachelor parties, team building events, corporate meetings, and more.
Also new this year is a hidden treasure hunt for the kids. Guests can join the Gaylord Hotels Adventure Kids on an interactive quest to fin
Room: The Deluxe Family Suite features a separate area with bunk beds along with a king-sized bed in the other room.
d a lost treasure map using detective skills to uncover hidden gems.
The resort also features some complimentary activities, including a virtual safari at the resort , animal encounters, sunrise yoga, live music in the evenings, and campfire & s’mores.
Thrills
An exclusive amenity for overnight guests, Arapahoe Springs Water Park features both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, water slides, lap pool, outdoor hot tub, and a 720-foot-long lazy river with waterfalls, water jets, and bubblers. Guests can reserve private poolside cabanas.
Relaxation
Guests visiting Relâche Spa can enjoy a full array of summer massage, facial, and nail treatments. July features Desert Revival and Prickly Pear inspired services, with anti-aging and detoxing benefits, while August showcases cooling and hydrating Avocado treatments.
Reservations at Relâche Spa grant access to Arapahoe Springs Water Park, free parking, the resort’s full-service gym, and spa amenities.
To book rooms, packages, spa treatments, and buy event tickets, visit GaylordRockies.com.
by Mark Smiley | Jun 20, 2024 | Uncategorized
by Mark Smiley
Bastille Day, a 3-day festival in Cherry Creek North is set for Friday, July 12 (4 p.m.), through Sunday, July 14, 2024 (9 p.m.). It will be held on Fillmore Plaza (Fillmore St. between 1at & 2nd Ave.) hosted by The French American Chamber of Commerce Rocky Mountain.
This French Festival is a celebration of culture, gastronomy, and art. Experience the best of France with authentic French cuisine, encounters with French artists, and shopping from both local and French artisans.
For an authentic French touch, relax at the lounge bar, Le Café de Paris. The garçons de café will serve you an array of delights, including champagne, French wines, and refreshing soft drinks. Relax and savor the essence of France right in the heart of Cherry Creek.
This event is free to attend. Visit www.rmfacc.org/bastilleday2024 to reserve your ticket.
