By Kathy Raczkowski
KathyR@lhvc.com
Blame it on the carolers. You wished
for a white Christmas and look what you got.
But
remember, we live in Colorado and we are supposed to have real winters with
real snow. We’ve been lulled into a false sense of eternal springtime here
during the last 20 to 30 years of mild winters.
“I remember having winters like this all the time back in
the 60s,” recalled Bert Steele. “I’m actually kind of enjoying it.”
Steele has more reason to enjoy it than most of Niwot
business owners. His Niwot Market fared exceedingly well throughout the series
of winter storms that wreaked havoc on the state. From the moment the first
blizzard hit on Dec. 20, Niwot Market’s business was booming.
“Bad
weather is good for the grocery business,” he said. “People just want to hunker
down at home, and they need food to do that.”
Fortunately, Niwot Market had no problem keeping up with the
increased demand while the big chain stores like Safeway and King Soopers had problems keeping shelves stocked and were
virtually devoid of fresh produce. Steele closed out the year and started 2007
with record sales.
As for other businesses, only Niwot Liquor experienced a
similar phenomenon. Almost everyone else had to close up shop for at least a
day, some for three or four. Many businesses lost out on what are traditionally
the busiest shopping days, just before and just after Christmas. Foot traffic
and sales literally came to a halt.
“The weather was just devastating,” said Tina Tusa of The Lemon Drop. December sales started out brisk,
but the massive storms knocked the bottom out of her end of year revenue, and
the usually bustling early January she has come to count on. She’s hoping that
Valentine’s Day will re-trigger the shopping gene and revitalize her sales.
“We’ve got lots of great stuff in for Valentine’s Day, so come in and shop,
please,” she implored.
Similar sentiments were echoed by most retailers, especially
those specializing in special occasion, wearable and gift-type items, such as NicNats, Niwot Antiques, and Rockin’
Robin’s. “No one’s even stepped through the door,” said Phil Battany of the Buffalo Indian Room, “but it’ll come around
again. People will come back out in due time. We’ve just got to ride it out.”
Several businesses encountered the need to shuffle things
around and accommodate customers, including Prophecy Day Spa and Flowers in
Bloom. Both reported that people were very understanding about the shifting
time frames and floral arrangements having to arrive late.
Nora’s Sew Fresh Studio took the opportunity to increase her
customer service by delivering custom garments in her four-wheel drive when the
customers couldn’t get in to pick them up.
La Cavasita improvised a drive-through spot in the snow bank
where people could phone in their orders and simply pick them up without having
to park and navigate the icy walks. Owner George Keeler sent out emails to his
customers inviting them to ski or snowshoe in to enjoy impromptu wine tastings.
Gunbarrel Import Motors expects a similar shift in business
because of the treacherous driving conditions. Although service was delayed due
to mechanics and/or parts suppliers not being able to make it in, owner Jon Jelosek anticipates his bays will be packed in the weeks
and months to come with engine, bodywork and alignments necessitated by the
barely navigable roads and multiple accidents.
New and used car sales will have to wait until the storms
stop and the roads clear up, though, as it wouldn’t be safe or wise to let
someone take cars out in treacherous conditions.
Niwot Inn lost scores of lodgers due to DIA’s
closure and people changing their traveling plans after seeing weather reports.
Niwot Realty reported that clients being relocated here by Tyco Healthcare’s Nellcore were spooked a bit by what they feared was a
typical Colorado winter.
Customers ordering Abo’s pizzas
for delivery from outside the 652 prefix area were out of luck for a couple of
days, but Lefty’s 4-wheel drive crew made it on all but one day.
Meanwhile, Niwot Rental and Feed was working day and night
helping to dig people out of the snow and get extra straw and hay to those with
large animals.
Likewise, the Boulder County Sheriff’s department was busy
helping pet owners and stranded motorists. Fortunately, the criminals seemed to
take a break, with neighbors making new connections in a spirit of community as
they shoveled each other out.
This spirit of camaraderie spilled over into the local bar,
with Niwot Tavern experiencing a huge increase in bar business on the afternoon
the first snow hit. The Eye Opener’s coffee sales have also remained strong.
Not all local eateries fared as well, with Subway reporting
a 60 percent drop in business with the first storm and a 45 percent drop with
the second. “It kicked my tush,” reported owner Mike
Suzanne.
He still looks on the bright side, though, citing how much
we really need the water and the fact that he’s looking forward to the
phenomenal produce resulting from the dousing.
Photo by
Curtis Jones
The winter
storms of ’06 and ’07, were a mixed bag for area
businesses.
If you thought this winter was bad, here’s what Anne Dyni found out about the Blizzard of 1913.
In December
1913, 43 inches of snow fell in two days.
August Berhmann, in a 1988
interview, said there was no train and no mail service
for two weeks. He and his neighbor Ray Arbuthnot, who
was road boss at the time, hitched six horses onto a road grader and cleared
the road from around Haystack Mountain down to Niwot. Others skied to
Niwot for supplies.
Photo
courtesy of the Niwot Historical Society
Land Use Battle Heats Up By Shari Phiel ShariP@lhvc.com The land use battle between Rocky
Mountain Christian Church (RMCC) and Boulder County wages on. Both parties have
continued to file an array of requests for extensions, motions and exhibits in
support of each side’s pending lawsuit. In October, the United States of
America, in the role of an interested party, advised the court of the recently
overturned decision in the Elsinore Christian Church
v. City of Lake Elsinore case. The church, which is located in Riverside County in southern
California, had filed a lawsuit against the city when the city rejected the
church’s request for a conditional use permit for a school property it planned
to purchase and renovate. Initially,
the U.S. District Court ruled that the city had violated the Religious Land Use
and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), but held that RLUIPA was
unconstitutional. Late this summer, the Circuit Court
of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit overturned that decision, finding that RLUIPA
was constitutional. What impact this decision may have locally, if any, remains
to be seen. However, in November, RMCC filed a
motion for partial summary judgment stating that the Boulder County Land Use
Code “fails to meet the minimum requirements for enforceable land use
regulations under Colorado law.” A response filed by the county in
December claims RMCC, “deleted from its expansion proposal, as originally
submitted, the following elements: proposed increase in the Christian school
enrollment from 380 students to 540 students; proposed addition of a 12,000
square-foot balcony to the sanctuary, and 8,000 square-feet in basement area.” The county did clarify that the
following elements meet the criteria for special use review and can be
approved. “The proposed increase in sanctuary seating
capacity from 1,400 to 1,550 seats and authorization for the church to add up
to 10,000 square-feet in permanent floor area to replace the 7,200 square foot
temporary modular school building.” The county further added that the proposed
development is an urban use and is not compatible with the surrounding rural
area. More recently, both parties filed a
joint motion to modify the scheduling order, which was granted in part.
Although requests to extend certain deadlines were denied, the number of
specially retained experts has been increased from four to six for each side. Barring any unusual circumstances or
delays, the trial is expected to begin in early September. No pictures Left Hand Laurel, Kellie Hudson By Kathy Raczkowski KathyR@lhvc.com When your heart is in your work,
you’ll put in long hours, late nights and early mornings. Soon, others join you
in your mission. You may not want to take credit, but you were the catalyst. Such is the case for this month’s
Left Hand Laurel, Kellie Hudson. As president of both Niwot
High School’s Education Foundation (NHSEF) and Niwot Softball, Inc., (NSI),
Hudson contends she’s “nothing special, just a cog in the wheel.” But those
who’ve worked with her beg to differ. “Kellie’s one of the most generous,
dedicated women that I know,” said Julie Breyer,
longtime friend and vice-president of NSI. “She shuns the spotlight, considers
herself just involved like everybody else, not realizing that they’re all
involved because of her…. She’s an incredibly, incredibly humble woman.” Breyer and
Hudson have been friends for over 10 years, having bonded through their
children’s participation in extracurricular activities. Both became
heavily involved in Niwot Youth Sports (NYS) where Hudson took on the girls’
basketball program. NYS was also where Sue Prahl first
met Hudson. As the community school coordinator and facility use scheduler, Prahl couldn’t help but notice what a powerhouse Hudson
was. “Whatever needed to be done, Kellie would just take it on and do it. She
doesn’t know what ‘no’ means,” Prahl said. Prahl
realized how much the NHSEF would benefit from such a go-getter and suggested
to Hudson that she get involved. Hudson embraced the idea wholeheartedly, and
immediately signed on. NHS principal Dennis Daly couldn’t
be happier. He said Hudson brought the foundation to new heights through her
balanced, logical approach and forward thinking. “She’s kind of a visionary.
She’s always looking for ways to improve things.” A case in point is the foundation’s Tech.Knowledge
project, which Hudson has “almost single-handedly orchestrated,” according to
Daly. She noticed a disparity in available technology between the new schools
and NHS, and she set out to even the playing field. Hudson wanted to give NHS students the tools they’d need to
compete in high tech society, by equiping the
classrooms with “smart technology” and creating the infrastructure to tap into
future technology. She brought together leaders in technology, higher education
institutions, teachers and administrators throughout the district, and found
private funding sources to collaborate on the project and secure the massive
funds and expertise necessary to realize this 5-year vision. Hudson is also the force behind the NHSEF’s
main fundraising event, the annual Gala, held this year on Feb. 3, at the
Radisson in Longmont. It’s a fun-filled evening of dinner, dancing and gaming
that raises awareness of
the foundation’s ongoing projects as it raises money to support
them. Hudson’s influence can be seen everywhere in this event,
from the imaginative treasure map invitations to the massive pirate ship that
anchors the décor. “She’s outrageously artistic and creative... (as well as) phenomenally intelligent. She’s off the charts,”
said Daryl Mercer, former president of the NHSEF. Hudson served as
vice-president under Mercer for two years before becoming president. Mercer noted that Hudson would take on every project
imaginable as soon as it came up, without his even having to ask. She’d simply
take the reins and drive the project home to perfection. Besides putting in many long hours for the NHSEF, Hudson
makes it a point to attend NHS sporting events, even though her kids are no
longer involved. Hudson also helped found NSI as a way to help improve the
participation and facilities for girls’ softball at NHS and in the community.
She loves to support the extracurricular activities of young people, because
she feels kids gain so much from them. Niwot girls’ softball coach April Martinez credited Hudson
and her NSI cohorts, Julie Breyer, Edie Tesone and Peggy Broyles, with helping to turn the Niwot
softball program around through their dedication and fundraising. With their
assistance, NHS was able to make massive field improvements, get a new batting
cage and equipment, and make the facilities much more inviting. These improvements have in turn facilitated the launch of a
new summer softball program for girls. It all works to put the excitement and
fun back into the game and gives the kids a reason to stay in Niwot. Martinez considers herself lucky to
have Hudson on her team. “She’s helped me to be a better coach and mother,” she
said. The one spot Hudson admitted to making a real difference in
was influencing her eldest daughter, Katie. Katie called Hudson from college
recently, asking for advice on finding volunteer opportunities. Katie felt the
need to contribute to society as her mother had done for so many years. Hudson’s eyes moistened as she recalled the moment. “I
couldn’t ask for a better holiday gift.” Photo by
Kathy Raczkowski Along with
her volunteer work, Kellie Hudson cherishes her home and family and decorates
extensively for the holidays. Local Personalities Orchestrate
Schemes To Win Director’s Baton By Julie
Fowler JulieF@lhvc.com Three of Niwot’s “celebrities” are
in the midst of a friendly competition for a
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to direct the Niwot Timberline Symphony in the
song of their choosing. Robin Abb, Happy Schaffner and Sam Smith were asked to compete in the first
Super Conductor Contest for the symphony since it relocated to Niwot a year
ago. The idea is that supporters cast their votes in dollars for their favorite
conductor-wannabe. One dollar equals one vote. “We encourage originality of ideas (to garner votes) that
would enhance the visibility of the orchestra in the community,” said Brian St.
John, director and conductor of the symphony. Each
candidate is trying to raise at least $2,500 for the symphony. Whoever comes
out on top will direct the orchestra during its final performance on May 5 at
Niwot High School. “I also will give them some lessons on how a conductor
communicates both visually and verbally,” St. John said. While the three competitors have flexibility in choosing the
song, St. John said it has to meet some criteria: The orchestra has to be able
to play it and it has to be a piece that is readily available in print. Meet The
Nominees
Why were you chosen? “I think because I stand out in Niwot
as a ‘personality.’ I am the head cheerleader for Niwot and the go-to girl
whenever there’s an event where someone is needed to talk on a mic.” What skill would you bring to the baton? “I would hope to
wield the baton as well as I bang the cowbell in my band. Plus, the audience
and the orchestra can expect that I will be dancing as I conduct.” Which song
will you conduct? “This is the reason I jumped at this opportunity: the
overture to ‘Jesus Christ Superstar.’ I’ve wanted to conduct this piece of
music ever since the album came out in 1970. I learned all the lyrics to the
rest of the album, but I always found myself conducting the overture in the
mirror.” Happy Schaffner is co-owner of Curves in Niwot. Why were you chosen? “I was approached by a friend at Curves
… who after considering various Niwot business owners, thought I would be
perfect, because she knows I’m always trying to promote women’s health and get
the Curves name out into the community.” What skill would you bring to the baton? “(My husband) Yogi
and I attended the Long Beach Symphony for years and looked forward each year
to its Super Conductor evening. So I guess I’ve dreamed of holding that baton
for years.” Which song will you conduct? “I will keep that a secret. It
will be, however, a fabulous piece that will represent my enthusiasm, sense of
humor, sense of commitment to women’s health and happiness, and appreciation of
the arts.” Sam. E. Smith, MD, is an orthopedic spine surgeon
with Front Range Orthopedic Center and lives in Niwot. Why were you chosen? “I think I was chosen for this honor
because I have two children playing in the youth symphony and my wife and I are
supporters of great music such as that played by the Niwot Timberline
Orchestra.” What skill would you bring to the baton? “I personally have
no musical skills at all. I cannot even hold a note. I think, however, that I
can be given a crash course on how to wave the director’s stick.” Which song
will you conduct? “I would choose the last few minutes of the 1812 overture, as
this was the song I first remember being played in our home when I was a little
boy. My parents were lovers of classical music.” No matter who wins the contest, the real winners are the
symphony and the community. And remember, this is one election where you really
can vote early, and vote often. Fans can vote by mailing donations to the symphony at P.O.
Box 201, Niwot, Colo. 80544; giving donations directly to the candidates at any
symphony performance, or dropping off votes at Rockin’
Robin’s or Curves. Checks should be made out to the Niwot Timberline Symphony
with a notation of which candidate you choose. Photos by
Julie Fowler
Rockin’
Robin, one of Niwot’s most charismatic
personalities, guarantees a great show if she is chosen to conduct the
symphony.
You’ll have
to vote for Happy Schaffner, an advocate for both
Niwot and women’s health, to find out what song she’ll choose for the
orchestra.
Make no
bones about it, Sam Smith, MD, wants to earn a turn with the director’s stick
to support the community and the symphony.
At The Grange
By Dorinda Dembroski DorindaD@lhvc.com Left Hand Grange No. 9, the second oldest active Grange in
the state of Colorado, was organized at the Batchelder Schoolhouse southwest of Niwot on Dec. 20, 1873.
The Grange received its charter on Jan. 24, 1874. In 1942, meetings began to be held in the Nelson Hall in
Niwot. Now known as the Grange Hall, Nelson Hall was purchased by Left Hand
Grange from the estate of John Nelson in 1945. Nelson Hall
was built in 1905 by John Nelson. He was a native of Stockholm, Sweden, and
upon arriving in Niwot in 1896, he worked as a carpenter. Nelson Hall served as Niwot’s
social and community center as soon as it was built. It was likely Niwot’s first commercial building built on the east side of
the railroad tracks. The second story was used for meetings by several
organizations, including the Odd Fellows, Royal Neighbors, Modern Woodmen and Rebekahs. Several retail establishments occupied the first
story, including Eli Bittner’s barbershop and Reverend William Taylor’s grocery
store. Today,
Nelson Hall is Niwot’s only commercial building which
still serves its original function as a community meeting hall. The Left Hand Grange organization remains active with a
membership of 42, celebrating 133 years in January 2007. It promotes a sense of
small town community by making its building available free as a meeting place
to various community organizations including Troop #161, BSA, Troop #595 GSA,
Troop #680 GSA and the Niwot Community Association. The Grange also provides space for the Niwot Senior
Citizen’s Medical Equipment Loan Closet storage and Niwot Youth Sports
equipment storage. Meeting in the Grange Hall promotes a feeling of
togetherness, and community spirit, which has helped keep Niwot from becoming
just another Boulder County bedroom community. Volunteers maintain Left Hand Grange Hall. Capital
improvements are needed, but the fees charged for hall rental will not cover
the cost of needed repairs. The peeling paint on the outside of the Grange Hall is a
symptom of more serious problems within the building. During 2007, the Grange
will be raising funds to repair and renovate the Grange Hall. The historic
plaque on the side of the Grange states that Nelson Hall was built in 1907.
Although recent research showed it was really built in 1905, the Grange plans
to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the hall in 2007, proclaiming: The Year
of the Grange Hall 1907-2007. On Feb. 10, after the potluck supper, Cindi
Kelly and Joe Jacwues will tell about their
experiences observing bald eagles. They will present a slide show and describe
the best places to observe bald eagles in the Niwot area. Everyone is welcome
to the potluck and program. Your Most Memorable Valentine’s Day By Mary Wolbach Lopert and Kathy Raczkowski Ah, true love, even if you can’t quite place your finger on
it. We interviewed various citizens in the Gunbarrel and Niwot area to find the
dirt on their most memorable Valentine’s Day. Little did we know that there
would be a story on the real thing. To those of you who couldn’t quite remember any of those
wonderful moments, you still have time to create an unforgettable memory this
year. Please let us know if you do.
--Photo by
Kathy Raczkowski
--Photo by
Mary Wolbach Lopert
--Photo by
Kathy Raczkowski
--Photo by
Mary Wolbach Lopert
--Photo by
Mary Wolbach Lopert
--Photo by
Mary Wolbach Lopert
--Photo by
Mary Wolbach Lopert
Jan Kahl – One customer proposed on Valentine’s Day where they
first met. He put the ring in the mud, in “their place.” She did find it.
--Photo by
Mary Wolbach Lopert
John Jelosek – I have something, but you can’t print it.
--Photo by
Mary Wolbach Lopert --Photo by Bruce Warren
Happy Schaffner - When the kids
were little, I’d put a little gift bag outside each of their
bedroom doors at the end of January. Then each day, from the first to
the 14th of February, the “Valentine Fairy” would leave them little goodies in
the bag.
Connie Leonard with grandkids Keenan and Hallie Leonard – It was 1974. Bill and I had been married about two years. It was
snowing huge snowflakes on Pearl Street (they hadn’t put in the mall yet.) We
were at Fred’s Steak House. Fred played any request. It was cozy and romantic.
He would play My Sunny Valentine, those types of songs. We didn’t have a lot of
money but it was so romantic.
Karen Hagler – I belonged to a ladies’ horseback riding
group called the Saddlebaggers down in Scottsdale,
Ariz. Every Valentine’s day the ladies brought their
husbands along on a ride into the desert and treated them to a lavishly catered
luncheon in the middle of nowhere.
Gail
Anderson- We ordered in from Maine, live lobsters for Valentine’s. We got
flowers, lobsters, champagne and thou.
Larry
Scripter – I don’t remember any. That’s the problem.
Scott Haugland reminisces with Bob Bote at the luncheon honoring Bote for his 29 years with the Niwot baseball program. Haugland played for Bote in 1979 and 1980, then
went on to play in college at Mesa State in Grand Junction before returning as
an assistant coach for Bote after college. Haugland now
owns a landscaping company in Longmont, J & S Landscape.