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Give Your Money a PLAN This Tax and Bonus Season

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For many families, tax season can bring something uncommon: a financial breather. But when extra income comes in, it is worth taking a moment to think about how to use it in the most useful way, both for today’s needs and for the months ahead.

One simple way to give that money direction is to follow the PLAN method:

  • Prioritize emergency preparedness: Setting aside part of the deposit for an emergency fund can help prevent an unexpected expense from turning into new debt. Even a modest amount can make a meaningful difference.
  • Lower your debt load: Using part of the money to pay down credit cards or other balances with high interest rates can reduce costs over time and create more room in your monthly budget. Even if it is not possible to pay everything off at once, lowering those balances can ease some financial pressure.
  • Advance long-term goals: Once you have strengthened your financial foundation a bit, you can also put part of that money toward important goals such as retirement, buying a home, or an education fund. It does not have to be a large amount to be worthwhile.
  • Neutralize impulse spending: Enjoying some of the money is not a bad thing, but setting a limit can help make sure that extra income goes first toward more important priorities.

Not every family has the same needs, and there is no single formula that works for everyone. But one thing is often true: money goes further when you decide its purpose before you start spending it.

This tax and bonus season, more than just receiving extra money, many people have an opportunity: to use that income with intention, reduce financial pressure, and take concrete steps toward greater stability.

By Diego Ruiz Garcia, BOK Financial

RTD, History Colorado Center partner to celebrate the U.S. 250th and Colorado 150th anniversaries

To celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and Colorado’s statehood, RTD is encouraging customers to take transit to experience History Colorado Center’s special exhibitions as well as debuting a bus wrapped to denote history that shaped the nation’s beginnings

The Regional Transportation District (RTD) is partnering with the History Colorado Center to celebrate the U.S. 250th and Colorado 150th anniversaries this year. History Colorado Center, a state-of-the-art cultural venue in the heart of Denver, is recognizing the significant milestones with commemorative exhibitions, and RTD is sharing ways the community can take public transit to experience them. As part of the celebration, RTD is debuting a commemoratively wrapped bus that displays artwork inspired by the signing of the Declaration of Independence and Colorado’s statehood. The bus is now traveling throughout the Denver-metro service area. Customers can learn more about the exhibitions and explore travel options by visiting RTD’s History Colorado Center webpage or use Next Ride to plan their trip to experience the exhibitions.  

History Colorado Center exhibitions and dates available

  • Expedition 1776: The Journey of Domínguez and Escalante shows how at the same time that the founding fathers were signing the Declaration of Independence on the East coast, one of the earliest European expeditions was traversing the treacherous terrain of the West. The expedition’s impacts rippled through the region for centuries to come. Open through Aug. 2.
  • Aug. 1 marks Colorado’s 150th birthday and the 38th Star: Colorado Becomes the Centennial State explores Colorado’s long road to statehood. The first four attempts throughout the 1860s were derailed by questions like who should be allowed to vote and what policies the government should adopt. Open through Sept. 6.
  • July 4 marks the U.S.’s 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The marquee exhibition Moments that Made US assembles rare treasures from American history never before seen together. Visitors will see artifacts spanning eight centuries that represent 50 turning points in our nation’s shared past. Objects include Jackie Robinson’s baseball bat, George Washington’s spurs, rocks from the Apollo Moon Mission and much more. Open through Oct. 18.

These exhibitions are presented with support from the America 250 – Colorado 150 Commission and other partners.

Transit options to History Colorado Center

1200 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203

Customers can use the following bus or rail options to experience the exhibitions:

  • Bus Route 0 to the Lincoln Street and 13th Avenue stop
  • Bus Route 32 to Civic Center Station followed by a two-block walk south on Broadway
  • D or H light rail lines to the Theatre District•Convention Center Station, followed by a short walk a few blocks south on Broadway

Using the Next Ride app enables individuals to view itineraries and plan travel to the History Colorado Center from start to finish. Customers may enter “Colorado Anniversary” or “US Anniversary” as the destination to see route options.

RTD’s Zero Fare for Youth program makes visiting the exhibits more affordable for families with kids or students 19 and under who can ride bus or rail services at no cost. For customers over 19, paying fare is now more convenient with Tap-n-Ride which accepts a Mastercard, Visa, or mobile wallet with a quick tap at any validator.

Learn more about the anniversaries and how RTD is teaming up with the History Colorado Center at https://www.rtd-denver.com/historycolorado.

Boulder Fire-Rescue Community Academy is back and you can apply now!

Boulder Fire-Rescue is now accepting applications for its 2026 Community Academy, offering residents a unique, behind-the-scenes look at how Boulder Fire-Rescue serves the community. The last fire community academy was held in 2020 and the department is excited to be bringing it back.

The multi-session academy is designed to give participants hands-on experience and insight into emergency response, emergency medical service, fire operations, and community risk reduction. Participants will also gain experience with first aid, hands only CPR, using an AED, emergency preparedness and using a fire extinguisher. Through interactive learning and time with BFR firefighters, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the critical services that protect the Boulder community every day.

“Community education is a key part of building a safer, more resilient city,” said Chief Michael Calderazzo. “Our goal is to empower participants with knowledge about fire safety, emergency preparedness, and the realities of first response. With this real time connection, we can learn about supporting and serving our community members while they build meaningful connections with our crews who serve Boulder every day.”

The academy, April 22 – July 17, is open to community members interested in learning more about their fire department. Space is limited, and applicants are encouraged to commit to attending all sessions.

You can learn more and apply online at bldr.fyi/BFRAcademy.

The Adams County School District 14 Thanks Commerce City Police Department

On Tuesday, March 16, 2026, the Adams County School District 14 Board of Education recognized Commerce City Police Department during its regular monthly meeting and thanked law enforcement for their support and professionalism during the March 11, 2026, incident at Adams City High School.

According to CCPD, two students were arrested in connection with a false report of a bomb threat and an active shooter. No credible threat, bomb or weapon was found, and no students or staff were injured. The students face charges related to making false reports and interfering with the operations of an educational facility. At no time were students or staff in danger, and all school safety protocols were followed.

“We are incredibly grateful not only for their swift response, but that the situation concluded with the safety of our students, staff and community protected” said Adams 14 Superintendent, Dr. Karla Loría. “We greatly appreciate the trust and partnership with law enforcement and thank them again for their dedication to keeping our schools safe.” 

Adams 14 reminds the community that school safety procedures require close coordination with law enforcement. During active investigations, Adams 14 follows law enforcement guidance regarding what information can be shared and when it can be released. This process is necessary to ensure accurate communication and to protect students, staff, officers and the community.

A Week In Review

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Africa 

Ghana church collapse leaves three dead 

Three people were killed this past weekend when a three-story building being used as a church collapsed on worshippers in Ghana. Officials said they are “90-95 percent” certain that no other victims are trapped inside. The building collapsed after heavy rain, and officials are investigating the incident. 

Shops and restaurants to have curfew in Egypt 

Retail and dining businesses will be forced to close early in Egypt to combat high energy prices caused by the Iran war. The Egyptian government is also planning to dim streetlights and roadside advertising while many employees in the country have been told to work from home for one day a week. Egypt isn’t involved in the Iran war but relies on imported fuel from the blocked Strait of Hormuz shipping route. 

Asia 

Former Nepal prime minister arrested 

Former Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli was arrested over his alleged involvement in a deadly crackdown on protests last year in which 70-plus people were killed. He has previously rejected findings from a commission that accused him of criminal negligence. Protests took place last year in Nepal over corruption, economic conditions, and a social media ban. 

Former Taiwan president candidate sentenced 

Ko Wen-je, a former Tapei mayor and presidential contender, has been sentenced to 17 years in jail. He was found guilty of corruption and misusing political donations during his 2024 presidential campaign. Ko was also accused of accepting cash bribes involving a real estate deal when he served as mayor. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing. 

Europe 

Paris police stop bomb attack 

Police in Paris arrested three people who are accused of attempting a bomb attack on Bank of America’s headquarters in France. A French official said the attempted attack could be linked to the US-Israel war on Iran. The suspects are allowed to be held for 96 hours under French law but could be held for longer if approved by a court. 

Migrants die off Greek coast 

At least 22 migrants died off the Greek coast after traveling six days in a dinghy toward Europe. Officials rescued 26 survivors, and two of them were taken to a local hospital. The coastguard said the boat had left from Libya, and it’s likely that poor weather and a lack of food and water contributed to the deaths. 

Latin America 

Bolsonaro on temporary house arrest 

Former Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro will spend the next three months under house arrest because of poor health. He was taken two weeks ago from his cell to a private clinic and diagnosed with pneumonia. Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year jail sentence for leading a conspiracy aimed at keeping him in power. 

Russia oil tanker in Cuba 

For the first time since January, an oil shipment has arrived in Cuba after President Donald Trump said he has no problem with countries sending supplies to the country. The Trump administration has imposed a de facto oil blockade on Cuba since the beginning of the year. Since then, the country has experienced numerous nation-wide blackouts because of fuel shortages. 

North America 

Bank of America reaches settlement with Epstein victims 

Bank of America, who was accused of facilitating Jeffery Epstein’s sex trafficking operation, reached a $72.5 million settlement with Epstein’s victims. The bank was accused by a woman who says she was abused by Epstein and held two accounts at Bank of America at the direction of his team. The woman’s lawsuit alleged the bank had information on Epstein’s sex trafficking operation. Bank of America said the settlement makes no admission of liability or wrongdoing. 

Helicopter crash in Hawaii leaves three dead 

Three people were killed when a helicopter crashed near Kalalau beach, off the Hawaiian island of Kauai. The helicopter was operated by Airborne Aviation, a company that advertises adventure tours. Two years ago, another tour helicopter crashed in Kauai, leaving three people dead. 

Our Government

White House

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service today completed the Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and issued the final record of decision for the Resolution Copper Project. The decision is now available on the agency’s project page (https://www.resolutionmineeis.us). This is another project in advancing President Trump’s goal of mineral independence and energy dominance by boosting domestic mineral production.

Colorado Governor

Governor Polis, Lt. Governor Primavera, the Ute Mountain Ute tribe, Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation celebrate Annual Ute Day at the Capitol on March 20, 2026.  “It is an honor to serve as the Chair of the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs and to support our government-to-government relationships with the Ute Tribes,” said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera.

Denver Mayor

Denver to Recognize “Sí Se Puede” Day on March 31. Mayor Mike Johnston, Council President Amanda P. Sandoval and the community in announced that the City and County of Denver will recognize March 31, 2026, as “Sí Se Puede” Day. “Sí se puede” or “Yes, we can” was coined by United Farm Workers (UFW) co-founder Dolores Huerta as a rallying cry to inspire and mobilize farmworkers in their fight for fair wages and working conditions.  “Sí Se Puede” Day will be recognized in place of a celebration for Cesar Chavez.

Nuggets making push for the playoffs pushing past the Timberwolves

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The Denver Nuggets have won five of their last eight with losses to the Thunder, the Lakers and the Grizzlies. On Sunday night the Nuggets beat the Portland Trail Blazers at home and the Toronto Raptors on Friday night both by significant margins. 

Both Jokic and Murray both had 22 points in Denver’s win Sunday night with Cam Johnson adding 19 more while Christian Braun added 15 points and 6 rebounds. 

Denver has now moved into the number five spot in the Western Conference just ahead of the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Nuggets are in Phoenix this week to face the Suns before returning home to host the Dallas Mavericks, the Utah Jazz and the Golden State Warriors this week. 

Seven of Denver’s last ten games are at home while they intend to travel to Phoenix, Utah and San Antonio with the Spurs being the last game of the season. Denver has a chance to move into the number four spot over the Houston Rockets but would need to win out in order to catch the L.A. Lakers who are sitting at number three, seven games behind the San Antonio Spurs. 

The Colorado Avalanche have lost three of their last five with wins over the Chicago Blackhawks and the Washington Capitals. Colorado’s recent win over the Capitals was taken to overtime in our nations capital on Sunday night. 

This week the Avs are in Pittsburgh to take on the Penguins, and the Winnipeg Jets before returning home to host the Jets, the Calgary Flames, the Vancouver Canucks and then head to Dallas to face the Stars. 

Colorado holds a five-point lead over the Stars with fourteen games left. They still hold the top spot in the Western Conference becoming the first team to 100 points and the first team to clench a playoff berth. 

The Denver University Pioneers defeated the Minnesota Duluth in double-overtime in the Frozen Faceoff Championship to win the NCHC Championship. DU goalie Johnny Hicks stood on his head with 41 saves. Hicks has been DU’s saving grace this season after the Pioneers were shutout in an embarrassing loss at home to Western Michigan at the start of the year. 

This Friday the number two seeded Pioneers will face the number three seeded Cornell University in the first round of the national tournament. This is their third tournament meeting with both teams holding a win over the other. Denver is 8-6-0 all-time over Cornell.

This is the Pioneers 35th appearance in the national tournament and has reached the NCAA Frozen Four three of the past four seasons. Friday’s game will be televised on ESPN+ at 4 p.m. MST at Blue Arena in Loveland Colorado.

Trump’s War and International Unity of Purpose

David Conde, Senior Consultant for International Programs

The exigency of purpose that comes with the choice to go to war with Iran is not only important to the people of the United States but also to the international community, especially our allies. That demand has not been met as the bar is very high given the fact that America has gone to war and gone to war practically alone.

People acquainted with our history know about the post-World War II events that have shaped the turmoil in the Middle East. What most do not appreciate about this region however, is that it has been a crossroad of conquest and violence since before biblical times. 

What complicates today’s setting is a fundamentalist religious fervor together with the oil deposits in the territory that power so much of the world. Both of these elements have been the cause of large military conflicts in the past.

It is difficult if not an impossible lift to establish peace and stability in the area. The United States found out the hard way about that political reality as a result of experiences in the short term Gulf War (1990-1991) and the attempted regime change “forever wars” of the Afghanistan War (2001-2021) and Iraq Invasion and its aftermath (2003-current).

Both types of wars taught us that acting on extreme political solutions like military intervention, especially in that place, can defy solutions if the affected parties refuse to change. The 100 hour Gulf War was carried out brilliantly but did little alter the dynamics in the sector and, in part, cause the Iraq invasion 13 years later. 

The 20 year war in Afghanistan began as a search and destroy mission against Osama Bin Laden, the author of the 9/11 attack on America. Then the purpose turned to regime change and, like the previous try by the Soviet Union, it failed.

A key ingredient of US involvement in Middle Eastern wars was to build a coalition of the willing before undertaking major military activity. President Trump decided not to do that. 

In a sense, going against Iran without his allies besides Israel, Trump has made the matter look private and personal. Also, knowing his transactional approach to things, his interest in Venezuelan Oil comes to mind when looking at the vast production of Iranian light crude.

The President, largely alone, has managed to take the United States into a military campaign that is destroying much of Iran’s infrastructure and yet, he is finding out that America needs its allies to get the oil out of the Gulf. So, without an international coalition his options are limited.

One of those options is to deploy 2 marine brigades currently at sea and on the way, on Iranian soil. It is clear that the American people will not accept that.

Trump is stuck by his own doing. He has insulted his NATO friends so much that now that he is demanding their help they only want to talk about it. 

Reports indicate that President Trump has been so explicit in threatening the takeover of Greenland that Norway has responded by sending blood supplies for the wounded in the event of war and plans to blow up all of the runways to prevent American landings. To think that all of this started because the President did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize.

We live in a world where economic and military competition requires international rules and coalitions of those that think alike to influence them. Our leadership evidently forgot that we did that best. 

A Week In Review

Africa 

Sudan Military denies deadly attack

The World Health Organization (WHO) said that 64 people including children, doctors and nurses died in a strike on el-Daein Teaching hospital. The Sudan Military said it was surprised by the accusation adding that it abided by, “international norms and laws.” No end is in sight to bring a stop to what is now considered one of the deadliest conflicts in Africa for Civilians – despite U.S.-led peace efforts.

U.S. troops using drones in Nigeria

U.S. military trainers have been deployed to Nigeria to use high-powered drones for surveillance and intelligence according to the Nigerian military. Approximately 100 troops arrived in Nigeria since last month to help train Nigerian soldiers fight against Islamic militants and other armed groups. 

Asia 

Clay ornaments, beads, pendants and a tiny child-sized ring discovered in Southwest China

Laurent Davinn of Hebrew University of Jerusalem released a statement that ornaments recovered from four different sites were made by Natufian hunter-gatherers some 15,000 years ago. “This discovery completely changes how we understand the relationship between clay, symbolism, and the emergence of settle life,” Davin said. In addition to the artifacts found were 50 fingerprints preserved in clay, showing that children, teens and adults all participated in making the ornaments. 

Iran says it will allow Japanese ships to transit the Strait of Hormuz

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the following on Kyodo’s News last Friday, “We have not closed the strait. In our opinion, the strait is open. It is closed only to ships belonging to our enemies, countries that attack us. For other countries, ships can pass through the strait.” Ninety percent of Japan’s crude oil imports are sourced from the Middle East and is heavily dependent on exports transiting the strait.

Europe 

Thousands attend EID al-Fitr festival at Birmingham Park

Thousands of Muslims came from all over the Midlands to pray together as they gathered for “the festival of the breaking of the fast.” The celebration is a reflection of unity, where friends and families get together to exchange gifts and share meals. The festival marks the end of a month of fasting for Ramadan bringing the community together. 

Iran’s strike on Diego Garcia alarms European countries

Deep in the Indian Ocean is a small island called Diego Garcia, home to a joint military base occupied by the U.S. and the U.K. The island is nearly 2,400 miles from Iran and after being attacked by a Khorramshahr-4, a 20-ton rocket that carries 80 cluster munitions has now placed alarming concern for both the U.S. and the U.K. and many European countries. Former Rusi research fellow and ex-commander of the Israeli air and missile force, Brig. Gen. Ran Kochav states that, “every other European capital now lies within credible Iranian reach.”

Latin America 

Left-wing Brazilian president is critical of U.S. actions

Brazilian president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has criticized what he calls the return of colonial approach towards developed nations during a summit in Columbia. While Lula da Silva did not specifically mention the U.S., he did have this to say, “What are they doing with Cuba now? What did they do with Venezuela? Is that democratic?” Lula da Silva had this to add regarding the U.S.’s campaign in Iran, “Iran has been invaded under the pretext that Iran was building a nuclear bomb,” adding “Where are Saddam Hussein’s chemical weapons? Where are they? Who found them?” 

Cuba begins to restore power after third nationwide collapse in a month

Flights have been suspended, fuel sales for vehicles are being rationed after the collapse of the entire grid leaving millions without power including five hospitals in the Nation’s capital. 

North America 

Trade tensions may strengthen Canada’s position

After President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Canadian goods, the two countries have taken a step back from their traditional friendship. However, Trump’s measures against Canada seem to be making Canada a more reliable and valuable trade partner. Canada’s increased ability to produce energy, minerals, and agri-food products along with advanced manufactured goods and pharmaceuticals will likely continue to elevate Canadian export potential.

President Trump threatens Iran’s power infrastructure

President Donald Trump issued a 48‑hour ultimatum to Iran demanding that it reopen the Straits of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. He warned that if Iran does not comply, the United States would strike Iran’s power infrastructure, specifically threatening to target major power plants first.  In response, a speaker of the Iranian parliament stated on X that if the U.S. and Israel attack Iran’s power facilities, Iran would consider vital infrastructure sites across the Gulf region legitimate targets and would fully shut down the strait. 

New West Colfax Affordable Housing Community Now Open with Limited-Time Move-In Specials

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Denver’s newest affordable housing community is now open and welcoming residents to their new homes.

Developed by Urban Land Conservancy, a Denver-based nonprofit committed to creating permanently affordable real estate, The Irving at Mile High Vista brings new housing opportunities to one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The newly constructed community is located at 3270 W. Colfax Ave., next to the Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library of the Denver Public Library system.

The Irving offers thoughtfully designed studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments for individuals and families earning 20–80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), helping expand access to affordable housing in a rapidly growing area of Denver.

The community is managed by Brothers Property Management, the property management arm of Brothers Redevelopment. Brothers Property Management specializes in operating affordable housing communities across Colorado and works to ensure residents have access to safe, stable, and well-maintained homes. Through the management of communities like The Irving, the organization helps preserve long-term housing affordability while supporting residents with quality housing options.

The development also prioritizes sustainability and long-term energy efficiency. The Irving is an all-electric community designed to reduce environmental impact while providing modern, comfortable homes for residents. Energy-efficient appliances and systems help lower utility costs while supporting Denver’s broader climate goals.

Located along the West Colfax corridor, residents at The Irving are connected to a wide range of neighborhood amenities. The community sits just minutes from Downtown Denver, public transit options, and nearby destinations like Sloan’s Lake Park, one of Denver’s most popular outdoor recreation areas. The location also places residents within walking distance of the library and close to local shops, restaurants and services.

The community includes a variety of features designed to support comfortable and convenient living, including brand-new studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes, energy-efficient appliances, and an all-electric design that supports sustainability while helping reduce long-term utility costs.

To celebrate the opening of the community, The Irving is offering a limited-time leasing incentive. Applicants who lease by March 25 can receive three months free rent and a $99 security deposit, making it even easier for qualifying residents to move into their new homes.

Those interested in learning more or applying can visit https://www.brotherspropertymanagement.org/irvingapartments to connect with the leasing team and begin the application process.