All Local, All The Time
All Local, All The Time
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Behind every trusted face on television lies a story, and for longtime CBS Denver7 anchor Mitch Jelniker, that story begins in the hallways of Niwot High School. Though born in Oklahoma, Jelniker considers himself nearly a Colorado native, having moved to the state when he was just a few months old. His father, an aerospace engineer, moved the family several times during Jelniker's childhood - from Colorado Springs to Houston, Los Angeles, and Washington, before finally settling back in...
In a heartbreaking week of baseball, the Niwot High School Cougars suffered two narrow defeats, falling to Skyline High School 11-10 on Thursday, March 27, before losing 5-3 to Riverdale Ridge High School on Saturday, March 29. Thursday's home contest against Skyline was a back-and-forth battle that saw multiple lead changes. The Cougars jumped out to an early 3-1 advantage after the first inning, highlighted by Charlie Shaw's triple that drove in Haden Shaw. Henry Noblin added a two-run double...
The Niwot High School boys volleyball team showcased both its potential as well as growing pains this week, beginning with a commanding victory before facing mixed results in tournament play. The Cougars delivered a decisive 3-0 victory against the Fossil Ridge High School Sabercats on Thursday, March 27. The Cougars dominated from the opening serve, particularly in the first set, finishing with set scores of 25-12, 25-16, 25-20. Junior Diego Kheng led Niwot's offensive charge with 12 kills, while Jasper Helgans orchestrated the attack with 28...
The Boulder County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denial of proposed text amendments to the Land Use Code that would have placed stricter limits on residential home sizes in unincorporated areas of the county. After four hours of testimony on March 19, during which the Planning Commission heard staff presentations, asked questions, and listened to extensive public testimony, the commissioners unanimously recommended that the Board of County Commissioners reject Docket DC-24-0003, which would have modified the Site Plan...
In a move aimed at supporting local agriculture and expanding economic opportunities for farmers, the Boulder County Planning Commission unanimously approved text amendments to the Land Use Code that will make it easier for farmers to operate mobile farm stands throughout unincorporated parts of the county. During the March 19 hearing, commissioners voted to advance Docket DC-25-0001, which creates a regulatory framework for mobile farm stands following feedback that permanent structures were financially out of reach for many of the county's...
Mountain View Fire Rescue crews responded to a series of small grass fires along the Diagonal Highway near Pebble Court in Niwot on Sunday, March 9, after downed power lines sparked blazes that threatened to spread in the area. Just after 1:30 p.m. on March 9, firefighters arrived at the scene where above-ground power lines had fallen and began creating electrical sparks, igniting a small fire that quickly grew to approximately 20 feet by 100 feet along a drainage ditch. While crews were...
The Niwot High School girls soccer team was forced to settle for its first draw of the season on Tuesday, March 11, finishing in a 1-1 tie with host Wheat Ridge High School in a competitive non-conference matchup. The Cougars, looking to rebound after dropping their season opener, moved to 0-1-1 overall with the result. In a tightly contested first half, the Farmers struck first, taking an early lead on their home turf. Niwot responded quickly as junior midfielder Diya Mehta equalized the score...
Boulder County officials are moving forward with plans to amend the Land Use Code to allow mobile farm stands in unincorporated areas, a change that could provide vital support to small and medium-sized agricultural producers across the region. The proposal, formally known as Docket DC-25-0001, was authorized by the Board of County Commissioners on Feb. 4 and focuses on updating Article 4-516 (Accessory Agricultural Sales) of the Land Use Code. This initiative emerged from the 2023 Farm Stand...
In a packed Niwot Hall on Feb. 26, the Niwot Historical Society hosted Jerilyn DeCoteau (Chippewa Indian lawyer, co-director of Toward Right Relationship with Native Peoples Program, and Chief Justice for the Pueblo of San Ildefonso Supreme Court) and former Naropa University Professor Laurie Rugenstein, who delivered a powerful presentation that illuminated Boulder County's often-overlooked Native American history while advocating for meaningful steps toward reconciliation. The speakers, part...
On Sept. 17, 2024, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) authorized the Community Planning & Permitting staff to pursue text amendments to the Site Plan Review (SPR) regulations in Article 4-800 of the Boulder County Land Use Code. The Board expressed concerns about the increasing home sizes, the rate of change by which they are increasing in unincorporated Boulder County, and how these increases impact neighborhood character, sustainability, and affordability. The proposed amendments are now set for hearing before the Boulder County...
Boulder County coffee shops and markets are raising prices as global coffee shortages drive costs to record highs. The Old Oak Coffeehouse in Niwot recently increased prices, adding about 50 cents to basic drinks such as drip coffee, espresso, and americanos. "This is a very sad, frustrating and frightening time for us," said Old Oak owners Michael Tomich and Patty Machen, who opened their shop at 136 Second Avenue in 2017. Their supplier, Boulder-based Silver Canyon Coffee, recently raised...
Pickleball is a sport that is growing in popularity and venues are in high demand. With the planning stage now complete and the design stage in progress, Tom Watson Park will soon be home to eight pickleball courts and four new tennis courts. Boulder Parks and Recreation (BPR) is responding to the surging popularity of pickleball with plans to construct the new courts at Tom Watson Park on North 63rd Street across from Coot Lake, part of a multi-year strategy to expand the city's racket sports...
Ball Arena hosted the 2025 CHSAA State Wrestling Tournament Feb. 13-15, where 1,300 athletes competed across boys and girls divisions. The boys' tournament featured over 900 wrestlers from more than 200 schools, competing in four classifications: 2A (56 schools), 3A (49 schools), 4A (47 schools), and 5A (51 schools). Wrestlers fought across 14 weight classes, from 106 to 285 pounds, in Niwot High School's 4A division. The tournament proved challenging for Niwot High School's three state...
Changes are on the horizon for the Niwot Business Association (NBA) as several key officers prepare to step down, making way for new leadership in the spring of 2025. The term of current NBA President Eric Bergeson of The Wheel House will end and Bergeson has decided to step down from his leadership role. Jim Ditzel of Summit Commercial Real Estate will be the new president, having been elected after running unopposed for the position. Ditzel, a longtime NBA member, has already begun...
For Kelsey and Joe DeBoard, owners of Cimmini's Italian Restaurant in Niwot, the path to becoming restaurateurs was paved with entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to return home. The couple, who have been together for nearly 22 years, opened their doors at 300 Second Avenue in January 2022, bringing their unique blend of culinary passion and community focus to downtown Niwot. Kelsey, a Longmont native and Niwot High School graduate, spent her grade-school years in Fort Lauderdale, Florida,...
The Niwot High School wrestling team demonstrated its competitive spirit at the CHSAA 4A Region 2 Wrestling Tournament hosted by Mead High School, with three Cougars securing spots on the podium, advancing to state. Ryder Evans, who achieved his milestone 100th win, captured third place in the 144-pound weight class with an impressive display of skill, returning to the state tournament for the second year in a row. Evans opened the tournament securing a technical fall victory over Glenwood Sprin...
In the heart of Niwot, where local businesses thrive on community connections, Darthy Prum has become a familiar face, serving up smiles behind the counter at Subway in Cottonwood Square. For the past two years, this Boulder native, a graduate of Boulder High School, has been crafting sandwiches and building relationships, one order at a time, all while balancing her role as a mother of two children. "Everyone is so friendly, so it makes it easy to interact with them," Prum said about what she...
In a significant transition for one of Niwot's cornerstone businesses, Porchfront Homes announced new ownership effective Jan 1, 2025, as long-time project managers Brett Steury and Ben Beveridge took the reins from retiring owners Tim and Mary Coonce. The change in leadership marks the beginning of a new era for the well-established construction company while maintaining its deep roots in the community. Steury and Beveridge, who have each dedicated nearly two decades to Porchfront Homes, are...
The Niwot High School wrestling team lost a dual meet to cross-town rival Longmont High School 48-24, on Thursday, Jan. 30. Although both teams forfeited several matches, the action in the contested weight classes was exciting. Niwot showed strength in the middle and upper weights, with four consecutive victories from 157 to 215 pounds. Maddox Brown started the Cougars' run with a pin over Longmont's Angelo Martinez at 157 pounds. Eli Quesada followed suit at 165 pounds, pinning Rowan McCue to...
On Sept. 17, 2024, the Boulder County Commissioners held a public hearing where they enacted a six-month moratorium on site plan reviews for homes exceeding the neighborhood median square footage. This controversial move was intended to address housing costs and environmental impacts. Attendees at the hearing included staff presenters Ethan Abner and Kim Sanchez from the Community Planning & Permitting Department, Assistant County Attorney Erica Rogers, and community members (40 total) who spoke to the issue, including architects, realtors,...
The snow failed to deter community members from gathering at Niwot Hall for Niwot Wellness Day on Saturday, Jan. 25. The event transformed the hall into a vibrant hub of holistic healing, offering attendees a comprehensive wellness experience that went beyond traditional health approaches. The event showcased an impressive array of local practitioners, each bringing unique perspectives on physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Boss Blends by NRML Health, LLC stood out with its innovative...
In the spring of 2008, a group of passionate parent leaders gathered with St. Vrain Valley School District administrators to address critical school funding challenges. From this pivotal moment, a transformative idea emerged—creating a program that would deeply engage community members in understanding the intricate workings of public education. This vision became https://www.svvsd.org/about/distr...
The Niwot High School wrestling team clashed with Silver Creek High School on Thursday, Jan. 23, before heading back to Silver Creek for more at the Granite Peaks League Tournament on Saturday, Jan. 25, unveiling the young athletes' raw determination and skill. The dual meet on Thursday revealed a series of intense matchups across multiple weight classes. In the 132-pound category, Niwot sophomore Diesel Bateman emerged as a standout performer, executing a lightning-fast pin against Silver...
The Boulder County Board of Review held a public meeting on Jan. 8 to discuss proposed modifications to building code amendments following recommendations made after their Dec. 19, 2024, meeting. In a move to promote energy efficiency while maintaining flexibility for homeowners, the Board endorsed new guidelines for home additions. Projects between 500 and 1,000 square feet must now demonstrate a 30% improvement in energy efficiency through the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index score evaluation before construction can begin. The Board...
In a grueling week that tested both their endurance and skill, the Niwot High School wrestling team faced off against multiple opponents across three days of competition, showcasing both promising victories and opportunities for growth as the season progresses. The week began with a dual meet against Timnath High School on Jan. 15, where the Cougars demonstrated their strength in the lighter-weight divisions. Miles Filkins set an aggressive tone for the team in the 106-pound class, securing a...
The Niwot High School wrestling team traveled to Frederick High School on Saturday, Jan. 11, for the 2025 Golden Eagle Invitational, with results highlighting veteran experience and promising young talent across all weight classes. Junior Ryder Evans set the tone for the Cougars in the 144-pound weight class. Evans continued his impressive season by securing second place and contributing 20 valuable team points. Evans entered the tournament with a strong 13-4 record, and received a first-round...
Niwot Youth Sports (NYS) is set to begin its winter basketball season this week, with games scheduled to start on Saturday, Jan. 11. The program continues to demonstrate strong community engagement despite some new capacity limitations. "NYS basketball is thriving!" said Jessica Walker, NYS Basketball Commissioner and Executive Director. NYS recently hosted a successful winter mini-camp on Dec. 23, where 182 young athletes in grades 1-8 participated in sessions led by Niwot High School coaches...
More than 200 wrestlers competing across 14 weight classes from 20 schools across Colorado converged on Niwot High School Saturday, Jan. 4 for the Niwot Invitational wrestling tournament. The tournament, which has become a significant mid-season test for Colorado prep wrestlers, featured weight classes ranging from 106 to 285 pounds. Niwot fielded competitors in ten of the fourteen weight classes, showing the program's growing depth under new Head Coach Michael DeCamillis. The host Cougars made...
The City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks Department's (OSMP) public Prairie Dog Annual Meeting was held on Tuesday, Dec, 10. The department reported a significant increase in prairie dog populations in 2024, prompting expanded management efforts and new initiatives to balance conservation with agricultural needs on the city-owned lands, which are largely located outside of the Boulder city limits. According to recent mapping data, prairie dog colonies on OSMP lands grew by 17.6%...
Residents, architects, and construction professionals are raising concerns about Boulder County's proposed home size restrictions, warning the measures could have unintended consequences for housing affordability and neighborhood preservation in unincorporated Boulder County. The proposed amendments to the Land Use Code would not apply to properties in the cities of Boulder or Longmont. The controversial proposal would eliminate expansion possibilities for approximately 50% of homeowners in unincorporated Boulder County, while reducing the...
In recognition of his two decades of dedicated service, Boulder County's new alternative sentencing facility will bear the name of former Sheriff Joe Pelle, following a 2-1 vote by county commissioners on Oct. 29. Commissioners Ashley Stolzmann and Claire Levy cast the decisive votes in support of the recognition, while Commissioner Marta Loachamin opposed the measure, suggesting instead that the naming opportunity be used to recognize Indigenous communities. Loachamin also noted that she...
Boulder County Commissioners are proposing significant changes to residential building regulations that would curb the size of new homes and remodeled homes in unincorporated areas, citing mounting environmental concerns and affordability issues. The proposed changes would mark the most substantial shift to the county's Site Plan Review (SPR) regulations since their introduction in 1993, reducing the maximum allowable home size from 125% of the neighborhood median to simply matching the median....
The Niwot Tavern has embarked on its fifth annual winter coat and gear drive, carrying forward a cherished holiday tradition that helps keep community members warm during Colorado's harsh winter months. The local establishment, a cornerstone of the Niwot community, will be collecting donations through Christmas Eve, with plans to distribute the items on Christmas Day. The initiative welcomes contributions of new or gently used winter essentials, including coats, gloves, scarves, and other cold-w...
The heart of Niwot is once again aglow with festive spirit as the beloved Holiday Market returns for its annual celebration. The cherished tradition, taking place on two consecutive Saturdays, Dec. 7 and 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., transforms the historic business district into a winter wonderland. This year's Holiday Market, organized by the Niwot Business Association and supported by the Niwot Local Improvement District, spans both Second Avenue and Cottonwood Square, creating an enchanting...
The Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) has announced its 2024 All-State boys soccer selections for Class 4A, with Niwot High School's Jay Scharfe earning Second Team honors after a stellar senior year. Scharfe, who demonstrated versatility at both left and right back positions, capped off an impressive high school career with three goals and six assists in his final season. His career statistics include seven goals and eight assists across 48 games, showcasing his consistent con...
In a fitting conclusion to a remarkable season, Niwot High School's gymnastics program has captured numerous honors in the 2024 CHSAA All-State selections, following the Cougars' triumphant Class 4A team championship victory. Sophomore sensation Genevieve Saunders, who led the Cougars to their first state title since 2018, was named Gymnast of the Year. Saunders' outstanding performance at the state championships, including a season-high 9.700 on beam and a second-place 9.500 on floor, helped...
Boulder County officials are holding a public hearing next week to discuss proposed changes to development regulations that could significantly impact future home construction in unincorporated areas of the county. The Community Planning & Permitting Department will host an open house on Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 5 to 7 p.m. to discuss updates to the Site Plan Review (SPR) regulations, a process used to evaluate development impacts on neighborhoods, ecosystems, and agricultural lands. The proposed changes come in response to concerns from the...
The charm of small-town America was on full display Saturday morning, Nov. 30, as Niwot's annual holiday parade wound its way through the heart of this Boulder County community, delighting spectators with a festive blend of local organizations, classic cars, and holiday cheer. Under a beautiful blue November sky, the Scouts Pack 161 proudly led the procession, setting the tone for what would prove to be a memorable celebration of community spirit. The parade showcased the diverse tapestry of...
The Left Hand Valley Courier, a cornerstone of local journalism in Boulder County for 27 years, has completed its transition to non-profit status. Building on its legacy of serving the Niwot and Gunbarrel communities, the publication's new 501(c)(3) designation strengthens its commitment to community-focused journalism. This organizational shift positions the Courier to enhance its coverage of local news while ensuring its long-term sustainability through tax-deductible donations and grant...
In a decisive 6-1 vote following a nearly six-hour hearing on Wednesday, Nov. 20, the Boulder County Planning Commission supported the staff recommendation by the Boulder County Community Permitting & Planning Division and rejected a proposed Transferable Development Rights/Planned Unit Development (TDR/PUD) submitted by the owners of the 39.5 acre parcel located at the corner of 63rd Street and Niwot Road. The commission's near-unanimous decision to deny the application reflects the...
In a stunning display of technological prowess, the Innovation Center of St. Vrain Valley Schools illuminated the night sky on Thursday, Nov. 21 with a mesmerizing drone show featuring 300 synchronized aerial performers. Under the guidance of Drone Performance Team Coordinator Danny Hernandez, students demonstrated their mastery of this cutting-edge technology. Hernandez, now in his second year at the Innovation Center, brings 28 years of experience with the St. Vrain Valley School District...
Three pioneering figures in St. Vrain Valley School District's Innovation Center cybersecurity education program have been awarded the prestigious Superintendent's Excellence in Education Award. Beth Cerrone, Kaylee Crouthamel, and Sienna Arellano were recognized for their outstanding contributions to cybersecurity education and community outreach. The Superintendent's Excellence in Education Award recognizes exceptional contributions to the St. Vrain Valley School District. The recognition...
A request for a Sketch Plan Review of a proposed Transferable Development Rights Planned Unit Development (TDR/PUD) in Boulder County has been sparking controversy among local officials and residents for over a year. In July of 2023, Ifrain and Shannon Rodriguez, the owners of a 39.5-acre property located on the southwest corner of 63rd Street and Niwot Road, submitted an application to Boulder County Land Use Department to construct nine new residential homes (for a total of 10 homes,...
In a significant show of community support, the Rotary Club of Niwot demonstrated its commitment to diverse community causes through grants totaling $16,550 across thirteen organizations. The club, which began its journey in 2008, has grown into a vibrant community of approximately 40 members united by their commitment to service and fellowship. According to Deborah Fowler, who joined the organization in 2009, the twice-yearly grant program reflects the club's dedication to making a meaningful...
Democrats maintained their strong presence in Boulder County as voters made decisions on numerous races and ballot measures in the Nov. 5, 2024, election. From federal representation to local water district measures, residents weighed in on a wide array of candidates and issues. Federal and State Representation Democrat Joe Neguse secured another term as the U.S. Representative for the 2nd Congressional District. At the state level, Kathy Gebhardt won the race for State Board of Education...
The Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) has announced its 2024 All-State Softball Teams, recognizing the state's top performers across all classifications. Among the standouts, Niwot High School's senior pitcher Kianna Butler earned First Team All-State honors in Class 4A, cementing her legacy as one of the program's most accomplished players. Butler, who led the Cougars' pitching staff throughout the season, was one of seven seniors selected to the Class 4A First Team, which...
In a nail-biting playoff battle on a frigid Wednesday night, No. 5 Silver Creek High School ended No. 12 Niwot High School's boys soccer season with a 1-0 overtime victory in the Class 4A state tournament. The Raptors' Parker Brown netted the game-winning goal in extra time, securing Silver Creek's second-ever quarterfinal appearance. The closely contested match, played on Silver Creek's home turf, remained scoreless through regulation time as both teams engaged in a defensive showcase. The...
In an era when American politics often divide communities, one local school has found an innovative-and furry-way to teach students about democracy. Boulder Country Day School (BCD) is engaging its students in the electoral process through a guinea pig presidential election. The candidates are two classroom pets named Sneffels and Belford, whose campaigns have captured the imagination of the entire school community while delivering powerful lessons about civic engagement and democratic values....
In a commanding performance that showcased both offensive firepower and defensive prowess, the Niwot High School boys soccer team secured their spot in the second round of the Class 4A Boys Soccer State Tournament with a 2-0 victory over Wheat Ridge High School. The Cougars wasted no time establishing their dominance, striking early in the game when midfielder Leo Broteland won a crucial tackle in the middle of the field. With precise vision, Broteland threaded a pass through the Wheat Ridge...
Facing significant enrollment challenges, Heatherwood Elementary School has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform its educational offerings through a new Environmental STEAM program set to launch in the 2025-2026 school year. The school, which was designed to accommodate 500 students, is currently operating at just 40% capacity, a decline that began during the COVID pandemic. Current projections suggest enrollment could drop to approximately 200 students by 2028. When a school's enrollment...
