Golden 4th of July, 2025
Photos by Joyce Davell
Click to enlarge
What's happening in Golden today?
Events for Monday, Jul. 7th
- All day - CURRENT EXHIBITS AT THE MUSEUMS
- All day - Live Workouts with Community Center Pros
- All day - Golden History Tours
- 7-9AM - Clear Creek Corridor Cleanup
- 8AM - Municipal Court Criminal Arraignments
- 10:15-10:45AM - Let's Dance - Registration Required
- 12-12:30PM - Mondays with the Mayor
- 2-3PM - Virtual: Active Minds Monday
- 4-5:30PM - Artmaking 101
- 5-8PM - Monday Market
- 5:30-7:30PM - The Fundamental Principles of Art
- 6PM - Arts & Culture Commission Meeting
- 6-7PM - Cookies with Councilors - Busting Weeds Pesticide-Free
- 6-9PM - Teach Me to Play! Mondays
- 6-9PM - 2025 Adult Summer Camp
- 6:30PM - Movement Monday Running Club
For more information, click the item above or visit the Golden Today Calendar
What's Blooming Along Golden Trails? Osha!
Figure 1. Osha – Ligusticum porteri J.M. Coult. & Rose – in the field. Right: Detail of leaves.
By Tom Schweich
Tomorrow evening (Tuesday, July 8th) our City Council will review the proposed Open Space Master Plan in study session. This is a good plan for Golden. The draft Master Plan provides excellent principles and recommendations for open space planning and management. In addition to hard work by staff and consultants, it incorporates hours of analysis and recommendations by the nine citizens of the Open Space Working Group.
While Golden is deeply embedded in 57,000 acres of Jefferson County Open Space, Golden’s own 391 acres of open space still holds many surprises and deserves special conservation work to preserve the little bit of Golden that is left from before it became a city.
As an example, a week or so ago, I was exploring one of our open spaces. In the head scarp of an ancient landslide was a small wetland. I had thought that the previous five days of sun and heat would have fried the plants. And while some were dried up, others, like the Wild Bergamot, Hairy False Golden Aster, and even the Calochortus (mariposa lilies) were looking quite fresh and blooming exuberantly.
I also found a plant that is a new record for Golden. Ligusticum porteri J.M. Coult. & Rose (1888) is a perennial herb found in parts of the Rocky Mountains and northern New Mexico, in the southwestern United States. One common name for Ligusticum porteri is Osha. It is also known as Porter's lovage, Porter's licorice-root, or Loveroot. Other names include Bear root, Wild parsley, and Chuchupate.
Most descriptions state that osha is strictly a mountain plant, and that it is usually found in deep, moist soils rich in organic material. Yet it thrives in a little oasis hidden in Golden’s open space.
Ligusticum porteri was named for Thomas Conrad Porter (1822–1901), an American botanist and theologian, who worked with the Hayden expedition to Colorado in 1872 and 1873 (Anon., 2025). Porter and John M. Coulter wrote the first book about Colorado Plants, the Synopsis of the Flora of Colorado (Porter & Coulter, 1874), a compilation of descriptions of plants found on various exploring expeditions.
In folk medicine, preparations made of the root of osha are considered an immune booster and aid for coughs, pneumonia, colds, bronchitis, and the flu. Some studies show that substances in the root of osha are bioactive, but there are no studies showing that osha root is safe and effective in humans.
Osha is primarily wild-collected for the herbal supplement market because the plant is difficult to cultivate artificially. This is reducing populations of the plant throughout its range. If harvest continues at current levels the plant is in danger of becoming locally extinct in some areas. NatureServe (2025) evaluates the species as vulnerable (G3) at the global level and vulnerable (S3) in Colorado.
In the field it is essential to distinguish between osha and look-alike herbs in the same family, several of which are highly toxic to humans. One of the herbs frequently mistaken for osha is common poison hemlock – Conium maculatum L. – an introduced weed (Riley, 1870).
References
Anonymous 2025. Hayden's U. S. Geological Survey: Expedition to Colorado (1873). https://naturalhistory.si.edu/research/botany/about/historical-expeditions/haydens-us-geological-survey-colorado
Coulter, John M., and Joseph N. Rose. 1888. Revision of North American Umbelliferae. Crawfordsville, Indiana: Wabash College, 1888. https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/item/76201
NatureServe. 2025. Ligusticum porteri, Porter’s lovage. https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.150160/Ligusticum_porteri
Porter, Thomas C., and John M. Coulter. 1874. Synopsis of the Flora of Colorado. Washington: Government Printing Office, March 20, 1874. https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/item/101470
Riley, Charles V., ed. 1870. Poisonous Plants. The American Entomologist and Botanist. 2(7):220. https://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/page/32620673#page/238/
2-3PM Virtual: Active Minds Monday
At Jefferson County Public Library, we foster continuous learning and connections. Keep your minds engaged every Monday! Be sure to explore our website for additional weekly event options, including call-ins and livestreams.
When:
2-3PM on Monday, Jul. 7th
5:30-7:30PM The Fundamental Principles of Art @ Foothills Art Center
Whether you’re beginning your artistic journey, returning to your art after some time off, or simply interested in refreshing your basic skills, you’ll find our group of artists welcoming and supportive. We enjoy experimenting in a personal way with the tools of the trade such as color, line, composition, values, shapes, and other essential skills. All levels of experience are welcome. Acrylic, oil paint, watercolor, gouache, and any drawing medium are welcome. We meet on Monday nights from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Explorer & Creator Members $40 / Catalyst Members $80 / Non Members $110
Location:
Foothills Art Center
809 15th Street (Map)
When:
5:30-7:30PM on Monday, Jul. 7th
6PM Arts & Culture Commission Meeting @ Golden City Hall
- Meeting Agenda
- Watch the meeting streaming live starting at 5:30PM
- Attend the meeting @ City Hall Council Chambers - 911 10th Street - (map)
- Send comments on any of the following topics to acc@cityofgolden.net
- Provide in-person comment during the meeting, at 5:30PM.
The newly-constituted Arts & Culture Committee will listen to a staff report for 15 minutes. They will then hear a report on the sculpture plan for Ulysses Park. They have a $92,000 budget for artwork. They have chosen a piece called "Dandelion," which cost $55,000. They are deciding how to spend the rest of the budget. They will plan for a tour of the public art collection.
Location:
Golden City Hall
911 10th Street (Map)
When:
6PM on Monday, Jul. 7th
6-7PM Cookies with Councilors - Busting Weeds Pesticide-Free @ DeLong Park
DeLong Park - Photo by Barb Warden
Join your City Councilors for a relaxed and educational discussion on creating a healthy, pesticide-free garden. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, this session is perfect for anyone looking to cultivate a thriving garden while protecting the environment.
What You’ll Learn:
- Simple, effective tips for managing pests naturally
- How to create a garden that supports pollinators and biodiversity
- The benefits of going pesticide-free for your family, pets, and community
This is a great opportunity to connect with your councilors, ask questions, and share your own gardening experiences. Together, we can promote eco-friendly practices that keep Golden beautiful and sustainable!
We look forward to growing a healthier community with you!
Location:
DeLong Park
395 23rd Street (Map)
When:
6-7PM on Monday, Jul. 7th
6-9PM 2025 Adult Summer Camp @ Miners Alley Performing Arts Center
Miners Alley Performing Arts Center 2025 Adult Summer Camp is a five-night series of theatrical workshops for adults 18+. No previous performance experience is required, although these workshops are suitable for beginners and seasoned performers alike.
Are you curious and ready to try new things? Want to meet new people in the theatre community, while sharpening your stage skills? Then come join us in July!
July 7-11, 2025
Register for any single three-hour workshop for $75.
Register for the full week of Adult Summer Camp for $225 (a $375 value!).
More information
Location:
Miners Alley Performing Arts Center
1103 Arapahoe Street (Map)
When:
6-9PM on Monday, Jul. 7th
Golden History: Farewell to the Freight House
The 1870 Freight House, shown in the July 7, 1968 Colorado Transcript
Click to enlarge
57 Years Ago
The July 7, 1968 Colorado Transcript included an article titled “Old Landmark to Disappear.” The building in question was the Colorado Central Railroad freight house, built during the summer of 1870 in anticipation of the first train to reach Golden. It also served as Golden’s passenger depot during several intervals.
The freight house appears in many old photos and maps, including the 1882 Birdseye View Map of Golden:
To locate the sites of old buildings, I often check old maps and compare them to Google Satellite images. I highlight the street grid shown on the map and resize the Google imagine until the streets align. Here’s how I located the old freight house:
The 1870 brick building was replaced by a steel structure, which is still used by the railroad that serves Coors.
Weather
Overnight: Mostly clear, with a low around 60. West wind around 6 mph.
Monday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Sunny. High near 91, with temperatures falling to around 88 in the afternoon. Southeast wind 3 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 62. West northwest wind 5 to 8 mph, with gusts as high as 16 mph.
Monday Night: Mostly Clear, 62°F
Tuesday: Sunny then Slight Chance Showers And Thunderstorms, 91°F
Tuesday Night: Mostly Clear, 64°F
Wednesday: Sunny, 97°F
Wednesday Night: Partly Cloudy, 67°F
Thursday: Sunny, 94°F
Thursday Night: Mostly Clear, 62°F
Friday: Mostly Sunny then Chance Showers And Thunderstorms, 84°F
Friday Night: Slight Chance Showers And Thunderstorms then Mostly Clear, 60°F
Saturday: Sunny then Slight Chance Showers And Thunderstorms, 89°F
Saturday Night: Mostly Clear, 63°F
Sunday: Mostly Sunny then Slight Chance Showers And Thunderstorms, 92°F
News About Golden - July 7, 2025
Goldenites pack the park to celebrate Independence Day
By Corinne Westeman
Golden Transcript
For many Goldenites, the best way to celebrate Independence Day is with live music, food and fun activities in Lions Park... Read more...
Golden Fire Dept. stresses tubing safety on Clear Creek during busy holiday weekend
By Claire Lavezzorio
Denver Channel 7
GOLDEN, Colo. — Clear Creek in downtown Golden was a holiday weekend hotspot drawing visitors from across the country.
On Saturday, July 5, the creek was packed with tube traffic as many quickly found out the dangers associated with the creek... Read more...
City of Golden Police Blotter
Crimewatch
June 26, 2025
June 27, 2025
June 28, 2025
June 29, 2025
June 30, 2025
July 1, 2025
July 2, 2025
Supporters
Many thanks to the people and organizations who support What’s Happening in Golden? If you would like to support local news, please CLICK HERE!
Sponsors:
($100/month and up)
Buffalo Rose, Buglet Solar, Foothills Art Center, Golden Cultural Alliance, Miners Alley Performing Arts Center, The Golden Mill, Golden Chamber of Commerce, Golden History Tours, Miners Saloon, Golden Hayride Outpost, Unite Fitness, Tom Reiley, Michael Mason, Colorado Railroad Museum, and Goosetown Station
Friends:
($50-99.99/month or $550/yr)
Tall Pines Painting, Baby Doe’s Clothing, Goozell Yogurt & Coffee Paul Haseman, Donna Anderson, Carol & Doug Harwood, Beth Bidwell, Stephanie Painter, Greg Poulos, Ann Norton & Jonathan Storer, Mary & Don Parker, Saré Merrigan, The Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum, Vic DeMaria, and Joy Brandt
Supporters:
($25-49.99/month or $250/yr)
Laura King and Scott Wilson, Bobby German and Alison McNally, Forrest Jones, Barry & Liz Bettis, Cheryl & Tom Schweich, Marjorie Sloan, Chris and Joyce Davell, Rick Flint, Forrest Jones, Cynthia Merrill Tamny, Stephen Pero, Meg Van Ness & Steve Kalasz, Steve & Karla Schaefer, Bud Rockhill, Steve Enger, Kristie Brice & Mike Schwartz, The Golden Hotel, Kurt & Janet Siegfried, Ella Lyons & Jeanne Fritch, and Robert Thresher.
Members:
($10-24.99/month or $110/yr)
Brad Miller & Julie Bartos, Holly Thomas, Jim and LouAnne Dale, Ann Pattison, Thomas Hoffman, Carol Abel, Brian Quarnstrom, Sandra Curran, Bobby German and Alison McNally, Kathy Smith, Karen Smith, Carlos & Nancy Bernal, Robert Storrs, Michele Sannes, Elaine Marolla, Dixie Termin & Ron Miller, E Tom Hughes, Crystal M Culbert, Patrick A. Madison, Alice Madison & Jim Kalivas, Deb Goeldner, Christopher Ball, 6th Chair Home Services, Dot & Eric Brownson, Rosemary Coffman, Emeline Paulson, Sandy Schneider, Mark and Cathy Pattridge, Cheryl G Leidich, Jen Rutter, Frani R Bickart, Jennings and Litz, Bill Sedgeley, Nancy Hughes, Justin L Wade, Kathi Eggers, Traci Case, Donna Owen, Leslie D Lutz, Karen Oxman, Catherine Skokan, Ross Fraser & KC Gilliland, Lynne Haigh, Elizabeth Hilliard, Frank Young & Terre Deegan-Young, Kathy Hirons & Jack Markin, Jess & Anthony Monasterio, Heather Duncan, Lee Ann & Pete Horneck, Carol Cameron, Cheryl Williamson, San Daugherty, Jim Garner, John and Carol McEncroe, the Golden Welcome Center, the Golden Transcript, Koshare Eagle, Ken and Colleen Krantz, Traci Neuman Lacey, Jo Barber, Jamie Cookinham, Kermit Shields, Meridee Cecil, Vicki Olson, Colleen & Michael Ramey, Nancy & Pete Torpey, Jax Baker, Simon Maybury, Rose McLaughlin, Cameron Chambers, Joyce Gravina, Patrick Klein, Barb Robie, and Mary Rains, Richard Caldwell, Janice Waring, Sam & Marilyn Baron, Carmen Johnson, Cherryln Parker, Mary Eiberger, Kevin Nichols, Ed & Carol Freza, and Laura Moore
Followers:
($5-9.99/month)
Golden Community Garden, Lora Haimes, Mariane Erickson, J.J. Fraser, Mel Perkins, Bob Hamilton, Kim Linton, Steve Stevens, Vicki Olson, and Emily Kurzinski
