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Colorado Springs teacher wins $25,000 Milken Educator Award

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Commissioner Córdova joins Milken Family Foundation to honor middle school math teacher Shana Engel

Photo courtesy: Colorado Department of Education

Mountain Vista Community School sixth-grade math teacher Shana Engel won the $25,000 Milken Educator Award in a surprise ceremony at her school attended by Milken Educator Awards Senior Vice President Dr. Jane Foley and Colorado Commissioner of Education Dr. Susana Córdova.

“Shana Engel is paving the way for future mathematicians,” said Dr. Jane Foley, who is a 1994 Indiana Milken Educator herself. “By emphasizing the importance of math to students’ lives, she is building a community of learners who will enter their next academic chapter with confidence and enthusiasm. Thank you, Shana, for the important work you do. Welcome to the Milken Educator family of excellence.”

“Shana Engel represents the very best in Colorado’s educator profession,” Dr. Córdova said. “Her students thrive because she combines rigorous, engaging instruction with deep care for every learner — and she lifts up her colleagues and school community along the way.”

Engel was lauded for how she emphasizes project-based learning and upholds high student participation expectations through targeted, data-driven instructions. Her students consistently demonstrate notable achievement and growth on i-Ready sixth-grade math assessments and on the Colorado Measurement of Academic Success tests. Engel’s effective interventions and differentiated instruction also help deepen content knowledge and understanding.

Engel’s work as the school’s sole sixth-grade math teacher, sixth-grade team lead and middle school math lead has earned her deep respect from her colleagues who appreciate her contributions to the school’s math committee, MTSS team, Understanding by Design initiatives or mentoring through the district’s new staff institute. Students recognize the value of her carefully constructed lessons and how they take an active role in the learning process.

Additionally, Engel organizes opportunities for students to engage with math through STEM club, robotics club, and math tutoring club. Her commitment to and relationship with the school community is positive; she inspires parents to volunteer in her classrooms, and students often choose to be her for “teacher takeover day.”

Engel earned a bachelor’s in history with an elementary education endorsement from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs in 2012.

Milken Educators are selected in early to mid-career for what they have achieved and for the promise of what they will accomplish. In addition to the $25,000 prize and public recognition, the honor includes membership in the National Milken Educator Network, a group of more than 3,000 education leaders.

Source: Colorado Department of Education

Pueblo’s SRDA delivers no matter the weather

We are in a soft economy; most everyone can agree. December jobs numbers—50,000 new jobs—were ‘just OK,’ but still falling short of what analysts had hoped. National unemployment also fell two tenths from 4.6 percent to 4.4 percent. Colorado’s jobless number is 4.1 percent. Grocery prices also slowly inched up. Again.

But in Pueblo, an agency that watches these figures as closely as anyone, says for it, right now, things are OK. Actually, a bit better than just OK.

Senior Resource Development Agency CEO Steve Nawrocki says he can’t explain it, but “even though Colorado is impacted by money coming from HHS, we’ve had additional money given to us for nutrition (programs).” More seniors, he said, are getting help. “We’re able to serve lunch at 12 different centers.”

Among the services Pueblo’s SRDA provides and oversees include the region’s Meals on Wheels program, the Foster Grandparent Program, programs for senior physical fitness and social outlets. It even has volunteers serving as school crossing guards. Right now, the agency is able to cover its costs without having to cut back, said the long time agency CEO. 

SRDA’s clients go well beyond Pueblo County, said Nawrocki, whose more than 20 years at the head of the agency have taught him as much about the region as anyone. The former Pueblo City Councilman, who recently announced his retirement, has made countless trips to the various sites where SRDA has clients. That means periodic trips as far east as Lamar and as far south as Trinidad.

“Our numbers vary,” he said, explaining how the agency is in the process of putting together current figures. But he says a good client estimate would be “about 12,000.”

Preparing two meals a day that will be served across the city is, perhaps, the agency’s most important responsibility. He says it’s no easy task and takes a dedicated staff that arrives each day at six a.m.

While winter weather can complicate things, unless it’s just too dangerous nothing prevents it from carrying out the mission. “Even during the ‘Blizzard of ‘97’,” Nawrocki boasts, “we delivered.” 

For those with little or no memory of that storm, snow accompanied by 55 mph winds began falling on Friday, October 24th and continued for the next twenty-four hours. Seven deaths were recorded, including four people who died from carbon monoxide poisoning while in their cars awaiting rescue. Even Army Humvees from Fort Carson were unable to respond.

When the storm subsided, the weather service said snow, in some places, was four feet with drifts measuring as high as fifteen feet. Also, as many as 20,000 cattle died in the storm resulting in millions in losses.  But Nawrocki said SRDA made a radio plea asking for volunteer drivers and people stepped forward. Somehow, he said, all meals were delivered across Pueblo.

SRDA relies on both state and federal money to meet the mission. “We’re totally at the mercy of the state or federal government,” he said. But there’s also a commitment from the community. In some cases, he said, a shockingly big commitment.

He shared the story of siblings who stepped up. They owned a dairy farm just outside the city. None ever married and there were no heirs. “When the last one passed away,” Narwocki said, “we were notified that they had left (SRDA) $1.8 million.” 

“That is money that lasted a long time.”

ICE Barbie and her agents are doing as ordered

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David Conde, Senior Consultant for International Programs

Kristi Noem and her ICE street militia is on a rampage, and it is going to get worse. Noem and the agents she leads have the full backing of the President, the Vice President and the administration. 

She and the growing army of Amendment 2 recruits are what our leading autocrat ordered. It is January 6th all over again, except the criminals now wear badges, combat gear and masks to intimidate, harass and kill people, including citizens, on the streets of America.

Now they can do it “legally” since all of federal law enforcement is in on the scheme to regiment the country to the will of one man. It was never about drugs, law and order or the economy.

It is clearly about racial and ethnic cleansing and making oligarchs richer beginning with the first family. It is an evolving government designed to be run by the few for the benefit of the few.

Historically, President Trump has had a lifelong desire to outdo his billionaire friends in making money, to be the leader in that club, and has failed. His six bankruptcies are a testimony to his extreme overreach in that regard. 

In becoming President, he has not only found his best avenue to the riches he desires, but also the political power to run people’s lives beyond those of his family. It is a dream of a lifetime.

In his first try as President he found that his corrupt intent and public actions did not sit well with the majority of the people of the country. He was impeached twice and lost his reelection bid.

Although prosecuted and convicted for some of his crimes, he nevertheless continued his quest for absolute political power and the riches he could not achieve in the world of work.

Like in the campaign for his first term, Trump took advantage of a divided America and successfully sought the support of a sector of the nation that fears the disenfranchisement of its political control after 250 years or more of dominance. He was elected by a margin of some 2.3 million votes out of almost 153 million cast.

As President, he has been publicly transparent in his comments about wanting to represent and serve the interests only of those that voted for him. Yet, actions tell us that he appears to be using the government for the benefit of a very reduced circle of friends and family.

Trump is having little success in strengthening the economy and providing affordable healthcare among other promises he made. However, his promise on immigration is on schedule because it allows the President the opportunity to construct an ICE army totally loyal to him.

Immigration is the red meat he has thrown at his constituents. That may be the most important issue for MAGA because this is critical to limiting demographic growth of a Latino community that stands to gain the majority in the next decades.

The unfounded MAGA fear is driving the recruitment of right-wing activists to the ICE ranks. It is also giving Kristi Noem and her agents a free hand to intimidate and manhandle people, especially in the cities, without worry of consequences, at least for the time being.

2026 is a pivotal year in the effort to limit some of the damage the present administration is doing to our institutions and their people at home and to our friends abroad. Americans need to use the ballot box effectively before that too is in jeopardy.

CDPHE’s Colorado Green Business Network to hold kickoff event encouraging businesses to apply to join network

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The Colorado Green Business Network, within the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, is inviting Colorado businesses to join an upcoming kickoff event to learn about the network and how they can gain access to funding resources, a support system, mentorship, technical assistance, and statewide recognition. 

The network will host the hybrid kickoff event on February 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CSU Spur in Denver. Register to attend this free event in person or online. The department encourages interested businesses to join and apply to join the network by June 30.

“The number of businesses engaged in our program has been growing exponentially. Colorado businesses care deeply about the state they work in,” said Rayna Oliker, Manager of the Colorado Green Business Network. “The network helps Colorado businesses reduce energy, water, and fuel use every year by providing them with tools and resources that balance the unique needs of our members with the lessons learned from others in the network. We have developed long-term relationships with our current members, and we’re eager to work with new businesses this year.”

The Colorado Green Business Network community represents businesses across the state, large and small, that implement unique and inspiring projects to reduce their environmental impact. Through free off-site and on-site coaching and support, the network helps businesses track energy and resource usage, prioritize opportunities for efficiency, and implement conservation measures such as LED technology and equipment upgrades. Additionally, the program recognizes businesses that demonstrate leadership in reducing their carbon footprint while connecting them to a statewide community of like-minded organizations.

Getting started is simple. Businesses new to resource reduction and efficiency can register at the “Support Level” to connect with the network and receive a free opportunity assessment. To begin, register on the GreenBiz tracker and complete the welcome survey. Businesses interested in statewide recognition for their sustainability achievements can submit an application through the GreenBiz tracker on the Colorado Green Business Network website. Applications for recognition are due by June 30 each year.

For more information about the network’s services and program incentives, visit the Colorado Green Business Network website or contact the network at CDPHE.greenbusiness@state.co.us.

Source: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

VA Rocky Mountain Network Announces New Healthcare System Director

Duane Gill Brings Leadership, Proven Experience to Eastern Colorado

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Duane Gill, FACHE, as the new Director of the VA Eastern Colorado Health care System (ECHCS), starting January 11th, 2026. Gill will oversee delivery of health care services to more than 143,000 enrolled Veterans and an operating budget of more than $1.3 billion.

“We are excited to bring Mr. Gill on board as the new Director of the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System,” said Sunaina Kumar-Giebel, Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 19 Director.  “His sound leadership qualities and proven experience will be valuable assets for the facility, the employees and volunteers, and most importantly, for the Veterans we are honored to serve.”

Gill joined the VA more than 23 years ago and has held progressive leadership positions. Gill has been serving as the Interim Director for the VA Sheridan Health Care System since June 2025, and Director of the VA Montana Health Care System since June 2024. In this dual leadership role Gill oversaw operations, planning and delivery of quality care to Veterans across both regions. He brings his expertise in Veteran-centered care, innovation in health care delivery and an understanding of rural markets.

Previously, in his permanent position, he served as the Medical Center Director of the VA Central Western Massachusetts Health care System in Northampton, Massachusetts. He also served as Deputy Director of VA ECHCS from 2017 to 2020. Prior to that, he served as Associate Director of the VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System from 2014 to 2017.

Mr. Gill, who is also a U.S. Navy Veteran, is a Fellow for the American College of Healthcare Executives. He received a Master’s degree in Management from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Eastern Kentucky University.

Our Government

White House

President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order declaring a national emergency to safeguard Venezuelan oil revenue held in U.S. Treasury accounts from attachment or judicial process, ensuring these funds are preserved to advance U.S. foreign policy objectives.

Colorado Governor

Governor Polis Applauds U.S. House For Supporting Extension of Federal Health Care Tax Credits. “But the job is not done. The Senate must act quickly to pass an extension of these tax credits so families aren’t forced to pay double or triple for their health coverage or, worse, forgo health insurance entirely. Coloradans can’t afford delay and Congress needs to finish the job,” said Governor Jared Polis.

Denver Mayor

With colder weather anticipated, the City and County of Denver will activate its Cold Weather Shelter plan. For this activation, the Department of Housing Stability will provide extra shelter beginning at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 8, and will remain open as long as cold weather conditions continue.

A Week In Review

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Africa 

Mountain gorilla twins born at Africa national park 

The Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo welcomed a pair of twin mountain gorilla twins. The birth was a rare occurrence, and the mother and babies appear to be healthy. Only around 1% of all mountain gorillas are twins. There are fewer than 1,100 mountain gorillas left in the wild. 

Drone strike leaves 13 dead in Sudan 

At least 13 people, including eight children, were killed in a drone strike on a house in Sudan. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet, but medics said the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces group carried it out. Sudan is nearing its third year of a civil war between the country’s army and Rapid Support Forces rebels. 

Asia 

Australia new social media ban imposed 

A new law banning social media accounts for Australians aged under 16 has officially started. Recently, Meta blocked 550,000 accounts during the first days of Australia’s new law. Government officials justified the law saying it protects children from harmful content and algorithms. 

Musk’s AI chatbot banned in Malaysia and Indonesia 

Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence chatbot Grok has been blocked in Malaysia and Indonesia. The chatbot can be used to produce sexually explicit deepfakes. The two countries are the first in the world to ban the AI tool. Many leaders have condemned the use of Grok to generate sexualized images like UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer who called it “disgusting.” 

Europe 

Avalanche kills skier in France 

A British man believed to be in his 50s died during an avalanche in the French Alps. He was discovered under eight feet of snow after a 50-minute search. Among those who conducted the search for his body were medics, ski instructors, and a helicopter-deployed dog. Avalanches are most common December through February. 

Russia continues to target Ukraine energy 

Officials recently said that more than one million people in south-eastern Ukraine have spent hours without heat and water because of Russian air strikes. Russia has focused on targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure with the goal of damaging power supplies during winter. Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky continued to ask for Western support and said he is fearful for a new “massive Russian strike.” 

Latin America 

Decapitated heads found at Ecuador beach 

Residents at a beach in Ecuador found five decapitated heads. Officials believe the heads were used as a warning to gang members who have been threatening local fisherman. Ports and towns near the Pacific Ocean are often targeted by gangs who smuggle cocaine from Ecuador to the United States and Europe. The remains belonged to five men who were between the ages of 20 and 34 years. 

EU/South American countries reach new trade deal 

The EU and several South American countries have agreed to a free trade deal despite opposition from farmers in some European countries. The deal includes Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The EU called the deal a win-win while some critics argue that cheap imports can undercut European farmers in products like beef and sugar. 

North America 

Grateful dead co-founder dies 

Bob Weir, the guitarist for the Grateful Dead band, has passed away at the age of 78. He suffered from cancer and lung issues. Weir’s career lasted longer than 60 years, and his band shaped rock music. The Grateful Dead was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammy’s in 2007. 

Monkeys on the loose in St Louis 

St Louis animal control officials are confused and concerned about multiple monkeys being on the loose in the city. It is unknown where the animals came from and were seen last week running free. Officials are unaware of any homes where the monkeys may have been kept. Owning primates in St Louis is prohibited, but Missouri ranks high in primate ownership. 

A 2026 plan to be a better you

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We have just completed the first week of our annual fifty-two-week cycle around the sun. It is a 365 day trip marked by moments of accomplishment and reflection, a time when we consider the many things that we did over the last twelve months, as well as those others that, perhaps, we failed to do, postponed until the calendar once again reminded us that it might be a good time for a second run at them. 

The categories for these things—either accomplished or neglected—can be personal; they can be professional; they can be moral, spiritual or occupy another category. They can be shared or remain private, for full display or held closely, inner sanctum safe. 

But the new year signals one more chance to recalibrate and that means new resolutions, new goals, new aspirations. Or, as we grow older, one more chance. 

What, though, is a goal? A resolution? Are they aspirational or inspirational? Worthy of personal discipline and action or ephemeral, lofty, momentary or simply intimately private?  

A goal is a target, something with a starting point and an end line. It is well defined. It is a commitment to go from the bottom of the mountain to the top of the peak or, more incrementally, to reach a rung higher on the ladder than the one currently occupied. 

A resolution is a promise, the altering of an arc of self. More often it is not a proclamation but a more personal course altering and, often an open ended vow, perhaps to be more kind, more patient, more caring, even something as simple as more punctual. 

But goals and promises are as individual as fingerprints. They are made for self as often as they are commitments to others. 

LaVozColorado chose people across the metro area—most well-known—to share their goals and resolutions for 2026. Here is a sample.

Rosemary Rodriguez, former Denver City Council and Denver School Board:

“To practice self-care and be useful where I can. Charles Dickens said, ‘no one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another.’”

Federico Pena, former Denver Mayor and Presidential Cabinet member:

“My priority is to spend more time with my four grandchildren…where I can have the most meaningful impact with love, joy and support. They are, indeed, the future. 

As for our nation, I pray that as Americans we can find a way to respect one another, to learn from each other and to ultimately unite ourselves as trustful Americans for some in the world seek to undermine our nation and our democracy while we remain divided.” (The Pena ‘line’ expanded by on December 23rd with the arrival of a baby girl.)

Rhonda Solis, former member Colorado State Board of Education and current serves on Aims Community College Board of Trustees:

Education and the right to vote are the two equalizers in our society and may we keep fighting for both in 2026!

Andrew Hudson, former Press Secretary to Denver Mayor Wellington Webb and President Andrew Hudson Jobs: 

“A laser-sharp focus is your job seeking GPS. With a focus, you won’t waste time applying for irrelevant jobs. Don’t fall into the board trap where all you do is apply for jobs on job boards. Job seeking is a full contact sport with requires networking, cold calling and putting yourself out there.”  (Hudson has operated AndrewHudsonsJobslist.com for more than twenty years. He has helped thousands of job seekers with jobs and employment and career advice. His jobsite is free and advertises hundreds of metro area and Colorado-wide jobs each week.)  

Phil Weiser, Colorado Attorney General and current Democratic candidate for Governor: 

“My hope for the new year is more listening, less yelling; more working together to solve problems and less demonizing others; and a championship season for the Nuggets.”

Leslie Dahlkemper, Jefferson County Commissioner: 

“I’m doubling down on making housing more affordable for Jeffco’s working families, veterans, and the elderly. Jeffco has one of the largest populations of veterans and aging adults in the state. Like other areas, housing demand and prices are through the roof…We’re short 13,000-plus units to meet demand. We’re working to increase the supply of affordable housing because we know quality, affordable housing matters for family stability, economic growth, and a thriving community.” 

Retired Denver Judge Bill Lucero and his family recently had a dangerously close call when they got stuck in a snowstorm and out of cell phone range on the way to Steamboat Springs. A stranger, “Tom,” rescued them, asking no questions and refusing any offers of payment beyond a simply ‘thanks.’

Bill Lucero: “I have had a few additional thoughts about hope (and the stranger who lent a hand). We need to seek and celebrate each other in ways that bring out our humanity. For my part, I am going to spend more time in the new year on positive vibes, not buried in the endless (political) chaos. Celebrate acts of random kindness is uplifting, giving in kindness is even better. Taking the time to appreciate how much joy our pets bring to us. Watching and listening to an infant’s joyous giggles. Setting and giving myself some quiet time. Reading more poetry and seeking to understand, instead of being understood. Celebrate our heritage.”

Pauline Rivera, LaVozColorado Publisher – I hope to better balance personal life with an overall commitment to community. To always find the good in people.  To care deeply for your #1 priority, yourself, and ultimately, to spend more time with family and friends. Finally, a big thanks to my super amazing staff.

How you choose to alter your 2026 from the patterns of the previous year can be in small or great ways. All of these matters are unique and personal. But whatever you choose, may your choices result in good things for you and others. Happy New Year!

Broncos take care of business locking up top AFC seed

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On Sunday the Denver Broncos hosted the L.A. Chargers who were coming off a loss to the Houston Texans after Christmas. L.A.’s coach Jim Harbaugh announced last last week that he’d be resting Chargers star quarterback Justin Herbert along with 13 other players. 

Denver Broncos against the Los Angeles Chargers at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado on January 4, 2026. Photo by Gabriel Christus / Denver Broncos

Despite L.A.’s decision to rest players they still managed to keep Denver’s offense at bay most of the game likely due to the Broncos vanilla play calling which resulted in one of the least productive games of Bo Nix’ season. Nix was 14 of 23 for 141-yards. 

Denver Broncos wide receiver Pat Bryant lead all receivers in catches with five for 31 yards while tight end Evan Engram caught four passes for 45 yards. 

Denver needed the win on Sunday to secure the top seed in the AFC especially after the New England Patriots took a commanding lead in the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. 

While the Broncos may have defeated the Chargers 19-3 the game was a rather dull and boring game with both teams combined for a total of 13 punts five total field goals. The Broncos controlled time of possession and walked away with the win and the top seed giving them a bye week during Wild Card weekend. 

The Broncos could play the L.A. Chargers again or the Buffalo Bills, the Houston Texans, or the Pittsburgh Steelers depending on the outcome of Wild Card weekend. 

In other sports the Denver Nuggets did the unimaginable on Monday night in Philadelphia. With Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, Tim Hardaway Jr., Cameron Johnson, and Jonas Valanciunas all out in Monday’s game, they managed to take Joel Embiid and the 76ers into overtime defeating them without their starting five. 

The Nuggets are in Boston this week to face the Celtics before returning to Ball Arena to host the Atlanta Hawks this Friday at 7 p.m. and the Milwaukee Bucks this Sunday at 6 p.m.

The Colorado Avalanche have suffered only their third regulation loss on Sunday against the Florida Panthers in Florida. On the previous night the Avs came back from a two-goal deficit against the Carolina Hurricanes to defeat them 5-3 at PNC Arena in Raleigh North Carolina.

This week the Avs wrap up a three-game road trip in Tampa Bay to face the Lightning (results of this game not available at the time of this writing). The Avs return to Ball Arena on Thursday to host the Ottawa Senators, on Saturday they host the Columbus Blue Jackets and on Monday they host the Toronto Maple Leafs at 8 p.m.

Denver Scholarship Foundation continues goals

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From the Publisher – There are many nonprofits doing great work in Colorado, many in the name of education and the continuance of education. The Denver Scholarship Foundation is one of those hardworking, dedicated foundations which allows students to seek a college education via scholarships. This year the Denver Scholarship Foundation helped many students achieve that goal. Below is a letter from Lorii Rabinowitz, Chief Executive Director, that highlights their goals and accomplishments. That goal is about increasing the number of students to achieve a college education. The Denver Scholarship Foundation continues their work in 2026. If our readers are so inclined to help a nonprofit, especially in the field of education, please consider donating to the Denver Scholarship Foundation.


Happy New Year from all of us at Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF)! As we welcome 2026, we wish you, and everyone you care about most, a year filled with good health, joy, and prosperity.

Thanks to your continued support over the past year, DSF reached more Denver Public Schools (DPS) students and DSF Scholars than ever before – supporting them on their paths to college completion, career success, and lifelong opportunity. Your partnership creates meaningful, lasting impact for our students and the future of Denver.

Together, we celebrated many milestones in 2025, including awarding scholarships to the largest class of DSF Scholars in our history. To see how your support continues to make a difference, visit the DSF Stories section of our website denverscholarship.org and learn more about the experiences and successes of DPS graduates, DSF Scholars, Alumni, and their families.

Our growing network of more than 11,600 DSF Alumni are gifting their talents throughout our community while opening doors for the next generation. Thank you for believing in Denver students as they pursue college and career success, and lifelong opportunity

Wishing you all the best in 2026 – and thank you, as always, for your partnership.

Lorii Rabinowitz, Chief Executive Officer