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Jeremy Beers Retires as Golden Terrace Council President to Pursue his personal Ventures full time
Date: May 13, 2024 10:15PM
After a period of dedicated service to the Golden Terrace community, Jeremy Beers has made the decision to step back from his role as President of the Golden Terrace Council. Jeremy is taking this opportunity to focus fully on his nonprofit ventures, aiming to make a more significant impact outside the constraints of council duties.
Reflecting on his tenure, Jeremy acknowledges that while he learned a lot and enjoyed serving the community, he often found himself struggling with the limitations of the council structure. "It was challenging to navigate what I could and couldn't do. Running each decision through the council, waiting on approvals—it was a slow process that ultimately led to more stress and less progress than I had hoped for," Jeremy explains. "I often felt that I wasn't able to do things in the most effective way, and that held me back from really making a difference."
Stepping down from his position, Jeremy now has the freedom to act quickly and decisively as the executive of his nonprofit, Aliens with Love. His nonprofit, which focuses on community development, mental health, world peace, and the elimination of insecurities such as hunger and housing, will allow him to continue serving, but in a way that suits his vision. "I want to prove what I'm capable of when I am free to act without the red tape and slow-moving decision-making processes that can be part of a council. With my nonprofit, I can be more agile and responsive to the needs of the community and beyond."
In addition to his focus on Aliens with Love, Jeremy will also be dedicating more time to the Golden Terrace Gazette, an important platform for the community. He is currently in the process of applying for grants for both of his nonprofits, seeking resources to further expand their impact. "These grants will enable us to do even more for our community—providing services, resources, and opportunities that truly transform lives," Jeremy shared.
Jeremy's decision to retire from the council was not made lightly, but it comes from a positive place—an excitement to expand his impact through new ventures. He remains grateful for the experiences and connections he made as Council President and looks forward to applying that experience to his nonprofit initiatives.
"Golden Terrace will always be my community, and I will still be here as a resident and neighbor, cheering on its growth. I just believe I can serve better in a different capacity—one that allows me to take action faster and push the limits of what’s possible." Jeremy concludes with optimism and gratitude, ready for the next chapter of his journey.
We thank Jeremy for his leadership and dedication to Golden Terrace and wish him success in his nonprofit endeavors. His passion for change will undoubtedly bring positive results, not only for Golden Terrace but for the wider world.
Date: May 13, 2024 10:15PM
On Monday, May 13, 2024, the Golden Terrace Council convened a meeting attended by council members and several residents. The primary objectives were to review the actions of the community organizer, discuss the council's current operational approaches, and examine financial reports as previously requested by a motion during the last council meeting.
During the discussions, issues were raised regarding clarity in communication. Members who had interacted with Susan, a key topic of discussion, highlighted discrepancies between expected outcomes and actual results. Additionally, concerns were voiced about the effectiveness of the community's Facebook group. It was noted that the platform often fosters misinformation, leading to unfounded assumptions and skewed perceptions among community members.
A significant portion of the meeting focused on exploring innovative solutions, including a presentation on the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance community management. This presentation, however, faced interruptions from a small group of attendees who expressed skepticism about replacing human oversight with technology. Their reluctance underscored a broader resistance to new ideas, which might offer cost-effective (potentially free) alternatives to current practices.
The meeting also touched upon financial concerns, notably the council's decision to allocate over $2,000 to Susan's initiatives, which have yet to yield tangible outcomes. This expenditure is part of a larger budget concern, as the council has a limited grant of $7,000 and has not yet considered engaging a tax professional, a move deemed critical by several members.
The session ended with a reflection on how internal council dynamics, particularly the president's role, impact decision-making and financial transparency. The discussions highlighted a need for more open-minded consideration of new technologies and solutions to enhance community management.
Golden Terrace May Bingo
May 14, 2024 9:35PM
On every second Saturday of the month there is Bingo at the Village Clubhouse @ 1pm.
This turnout was great with three rows worth of people and plenty of prizes donated by residents including mystery boxes and gift cards. The room is quickly growing in attendants each time and it would be no surprise for the entire room to be filled at some point. The games went on for nearly 3 hours with all of the prizes. Many games were played and ended with a game of Blackout or as I personally call it "Fill Your Card Cover All" from what I remember it being called back East. Almost everyone was able to go home with a prize. Jeremy of the GT Gazette has donated $75 of gift cards to this game, and plans on continuing its efforts to encourage community within Golden Terrace.
2024 Golden Terrace Resource Fair / Feria de Recursos
Visit https://www.goldenunited.org/post/2024-golden-terrace-resource-fair
Saturday, April 27th from 11 am to 2 pm
West Clubhouse (on Zeta Street)
Free burritos and drawings for gift cards!
Find out about local food pantries, City and Jeffco resources, information and benefits for older adults, AND MORE!
Get ready for Spring!
Get your bike repaired by the Golden Optimists!
Learn about local gardening!
Funding through the City of Golden
Read about what happened at the Resource Fair last year:
Golden Terrace residents connect with neighbors, local resources at new event
Golden, Colorado, Battles Historic March Snowstorm
March 16, 2024 11:25pm
In March 2024, Golden, Colorado, faced one of its most challenging winter storms in recent years, leaving the city and its neighborhoods, including Golden Terrace, grappling with the aftermath. The snowstorm, which blanketed the area around March 14, brought not just picturesque winter scenes but a host of challenges for the residents and local authorities.
The Onset
As the snow began to fall, residents of Golden and the Golden Terrace community braced for a significant event, with forecasts predicting heavy accumulation. The storm delivered, covering streets, vehicles, and homes in several inches of snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland with a hidden edge of danger.
The Challenges
Navigational Hazards: The accumulation led to treacherous driving conditions, with some roads becoming nearly impassable. Notably, there were trenches at Mallard & Sagebrush that became a trap for vehicles, with several drivers finding themselves stuck in massive ditches.
Tree and Property Damage: The weight of the snow caused extensive damage, with huge tree branches breaking and falling, blocking roads, and in some instances, causing property damage. The immediate aftermath saw the community coming together to clear paths and assess the damage.
Plowing Difficulties: While plowing efforts commenced quickly, the sheer volume of snow meant that snowbanks and berms created by the plows added another layer of obstruction for residents, complicating the task of shoveling paths for vehicles to navigate the snow-clad streets.
Pets at Risk: The snowstorm also posed risks for pets. In Golden Terrace, there were reports of dogs getting loose, likely due to snow packs against fences, highlighting the need for vigilance and secure enclosures during such significant weather events.
The Response
Management teams and local authorities were quick to respond to the most pressing challenges posed by the storm. Efforts to remove fallen trees and clear roads of snow were undertaken, albeit with the understanding that full recovery would require time and community effort.
Moving Forward
As Golden and its neighborhoods like Golden Terrace work towards returning to normalcy, the snowstorm of March 2024 serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of community resilience. The lessons learned and the stories of cooperation and support will undoubtedly shape the city's response to future winter events.
For those affected by the storm or interested in lending a hand, local authorities and community organizations have issued calls for volunteers and provided resources for assistance. As the snow melts and the full extent of the storm's impact becomes clear, Golden's spirit of community and resilience shines as bright as the snow that blanketed it.
Golden Terrace Residents Enjoy Successful Bingo Night
March 12, 2024 1:54am
Golden Terrace, CO — The Golden Terrace community celebrated a lively Bingo Night on Saturday, March 9, drawing a large crowd to the Village Clubhouse. The evening featured fifteen bingo games, with ELS providing gift cards as prizes as well as resident donations. Organized to strengthen community ties, the event saw enthusiastic participation.
Next month's Bingo Night is scheduled for April 13, 2024, at 1 pm in the Village Clubhouse. The event is free and open to everyone, promising another day of community fun.
Local Enthusiast Spearheads GT Gazette's Digital Revolution: A Call for Community Collaboration
March 11, 2024 6:49am
In an inspiring blend of passion and ingenuity, a self-taught local resident of Golden Terrace, affectionately dubbed the "Local Goon," has taken the GT Gazette from a concept to an emerging online community platform. Undertaking the mammoth task with minimal prior web development experience and a volunteer status, this individual's efforts have laid the groundwork for what is poised to become the digital heart of our community. However, as the GT Gazette stands at the brink of its next growth phase, it's clear that the journey is just beginning. The project, currently in its alpha stage, is a canvas of potential waiting for the broader community's touch.
The GT Gazette's digital presence, crafted by the Local Goon's tireless dedication, has transformed the way our community interacts, shares news, and supports one another. Yet, as with any ambitious project in its infancy, there remains a substantial amount of development, refinement, and content creation before the official launch. The platform is in startup mode, buzzing with ideas and possibilities but also faced with the challenges typical of early-stage ventures.
"I have done an incredible job bringing us this far, but the reality is, building a community platform is a massive undertaking that goes beyond one person's capabilities," explains the GT Gazette's founder. "We're in alpha stage, which means there's a lot we want to add, test, and improve upon. It's a call to action for anyone who can lend their expertise, time, or support in any form."
The Gazette's vision extends far beyond being just another news website; it aims to be a community hub where every member feels represented and connected. To achieve this, the platform is inviting volunteers who can contribute across various fronts:
- Web Development and Design: Assistance in enhancing the site's functionality, aesthetics, and user experience.
- Content Creation: Writers, journalists, and storytellers to enrich the platform with diverse, engaging content.
- Digital Marketing: Experts who can help increase the platform's visibility and reach within the community.
- Feedback and Testing: Community members willing to navigate the site, report bugs, and suggest improvements.
- Moderation and Community Management: Individuals passionate about fostering positive discussions and connections.
This call for collaboration is not just about building a website but about crafting a shared digital space that reflects the spirit and diversity of our community. "Everyone has something valuable to contribute, whether it's writing an article, suggesting features, or simply spreading the word," the Local Goon shares, emphasizing the inclusive ethos of the project.
As the GT Gazette navigates its startup challenges, the project stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. It's an invitation to be part of something impactful—where every contribution, big or small, can help shape the future of our community's digital presence.
For those interested in contributing to the GT Gazette's journey from alpha to launch, please reach out via mailto:jeremy@gtgazette.org. Together, we can turn this vision into a vibrant reality for all.
Golden Terrace Community Council Contemplates Technology Leap for Enhanced Civic Engagement: Exploring Alternatives
March 11, 2024 5:34am
Golden Terrace, CO – The Golden Terrace Community Council is on the brink of a pivotal decision that could redefine its approach to civic engagement in our community of approximately 650 homes. With a $10,000 grant earmarked for community improvements within the year, the council is carefully considering the acquisition of an OWL self-moving, computer-connected web camera, a product of Owl Labs, known for its innovative 360-degree video capture and smart speaker focus. This technology promises to revolutionize the council's monthly meetings, but the decision comes with significant financial considerations and the need to evaluate alternative solutions.
The Pros of OWL Camera Technology:
Immersive Experience: OWL cameras offer a dynamic, inclusive meeting environment, especially for remote participants, through 360-degree video and intelligent speaker tracking.
Adaptability to Future Needs: Embracing such technology positions Golden Terrace as a forward-thinking community, ready for the evolving landscape of digital communication.
Flexibility: With several models available, including the Meeting Owl, Meeting Owl Pro, and Meeting Owl 3, the community can select a device that best fits its size and needs.
The Cons:
High Cost: The significant investment required for OWL cameras might limit the council's ability to allocate funds to other vital community projects.
Questionable Frequency of Use: The investment's worth is under scrutiny, given the primary application for the technology is the council's once-a-month meeting.
Additional Operational Demands: The need for continuous technical support, potential upgrades, and maintenance could present further challenges.
Exploring Alternatives:
Recognizing the need for a balanced approach, the council is also exploring alternative solutions that could offer similar benefits at a potentially lower cost and complexity:
Zoom Rooms and Google Meet Hardware: Subscription-based services that offer a suite of tools for video conferencing, including hardware kits for improving meeting experiences, at a potentially lower upfront cost than permanent hardware purchases.
Logitech Group Solutions: A cost-effective line of video conferencing equipment designed for small to large meeting rooms, offering high-quality audio and video without the steep price tag of more advanced systems.
Microsoft Teams Rooms: An integrated solution leveraging Microsoft's platform, providing software and hardware for enhanced meeting engagement, with various licensing options to suit different budgetary needs.
DIY Solutions: Utilizing off-the-shelf webcams, microphones, and speaker systems creatively configured to enhance meeting quality. This approach requires more hands-on setup but allows for a high degree of customization and cost-saving.
Community Tech Sharing: Partnering with local businesses or educational institutions that could lend or donate equipment or provide tech support, fostering a sense of community collaboration.
As the debate unfolds, the Golden Terrace Community Council aims to strike a delicate balance between embracing technological advancements to improve civic participation and ensuring the judicious use of its limited financial resources.
Community members are encouraged to contribute their thoughts and preferences, ensuring that any decision made reflects the collective will and best interests of Golden Terrace. As the council moves forward, it will consider not only the financial implications but also the potential for fostering a more engaged and connected community through whichever technological solution it ultimately embraces.
Golden Terrace Community Council Faces Leadership Controversy Over Grant Acknowledgment
March 10, 2024 1:43am
Golden Terrace, CO – The Golden Terrace Community Council is currently embroiled in a controversy that strikes at the heart of community leadership and collaborative decision-making. An internal communication has sparked discussions among council members and the broader community regarding the acknowledgment of efforts in securing a vital grant.
At the center of this controversy is an email from Taunya Happ, President of the Golden Terrace Community Council, to Sarah Vaine of the City of Golden. Happ's email expressed personal gratitude for the awarding of a significant grant meant to bolster the community. This communication has been perceived by some members of the council as overlooking the collective decision-making and efforts that contributed to securing the grant.
The grant in question, provided by the City of Golden, allocates up to $10,000 toward enhancing community organization and engagement within Golden Terrace. The funds are earmarked for specific uses, including improving financial documentation and organizational practices, with guidance from a selected consultant.
While the intention behind Happ's email may have been to express gratitude, it inadvertently highlighted a growing concern over the recognition of collective actions versus individual acknowledgments in community endeavors. The issue has prompted a reflection on the values of transparency, shared leadership, and the acknowledgment of communal efforts within the council's operations.
Given the sensitive nature of this situation and the confidentiality surrounding the grant's details, the community and council members are advocating for a more inclusive dialogue that honors the collaborative spirit of Golden Terrace. The aim is to ensure that all contributions, decisions, and achievements are recognized as collective efforts, reinforcing the importance of unity and shared purpose in community governance.
The Golden Terrace Community Council has yet to issue a formal response or statement addressing the controversy. The community remains hopeful for a constructive resolution that reaffirms the principles of collaborative leadership and collective achievement, which are crucial for the advancement and cohesion of Golden Terrace.
The unfolding situation underscores the delicate balance between individual leadership roles and the collective governance structures within community organizations. It serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication, mutual respect, and the acknowledgment of shared efforts in the pursuit of community betterment.
Bank Statements for Golden Terrace Community Council
For transparency and to keep our community informed, we've provided links to view the Golden Terrace Community Council's latest bank statements. Click on the links below to view each image. If you wish to know more about these statements or specific transactions/ any other financial information pertaining to the Golden Terrace Community Council, please contact a council member or bring it up at the next meeting.
Reflecting on Golden Terrace's Sweet Holiday Giveaway
As an independent journalist and a member of the Golden Terrace Community Council, I find it essential to share a balanced perspective on our recent Christmas event. This past weekend, our community experienced a burst of holiday cheer with a giveaway that left many with smiles and sweets in hand. The array of treats was impressive – cookies, baklava, brownies, rice crispy treats, and more – a true testament to festive indulgence.
However, as delightful as the event was, the menu raised some concerns. The exclusive offering of sweets and sodas, with just water as a healthier alternative, stood out as a point of contention. Nutritionally, a spread composed entirely of sugary treats for a three-hour event is questionable. It's important for community events to cater to diverse dietary needs and promote healthier choices, especially in gatherings that involve children and people with specific health conditions.
Interestingly, the decision to provide such a menu didn’t cross my desk, despite my role on the council. This oversight signals a need for better communication and decision-making processes within our council. I've requested details about the expenditures on everything, and I'm keen to see the response time for this information.
Moreover, the event's promotion also warrants reflection. While efforts were made through Facebook, word of mouth, and signage, the turnout suggested these were not as effective as hoped. From my observation, the signs were overly wordy with small print – a likely deterrent for busy passersby. Clear, concise, and visually appealing communication is crucial in community engagement.
In closing, while the event brought joy and unity, it also highlighted areas for improvement in health considerations and communication strategies within the Golden Terrace Community Council. As we move forward, these insights are valuable for enhancing the well-being and inclusivity of our community events.
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