State Representative - Colorado Springs
July 4, 2010
Dear Neighbors,
On America's Independence Day, I begin and end my day with deep thought and prayers for all of the troops. This weekend is a time to celebrate the birth of this great nation, a time to remember the freedoms we enjoy and a chance to rekindle the hope for a prosperous future.
The celebration of our independence presents a unique opportunity to take stock of how our own lives and service can contribute to the greatness of our nation. The men and women who serve this country in uniform - both here and abroad - are deeply committed to preserving the greatness of this country. But they cannot do the job alone. All of us must participate to make our democracy work. All of us must contribute, in some way, to preserving freedom, opportunity and security.
Reading to young kids at a local library, spending time with senior citizens, lending a helping hand to a neighbor, volunteering, donating to a cause, and planting a tree are just some of the ways we can participate in our community and make our nation stronger.
Freedom isn't just won through wars abroad; it's preserved here, at home, in the actions and deeds of its citizens. Their stewardship lays a foundation for our children and grandchildren, and the nation prospers because of their commitment to service.
Yesterday morning I walked for Homeless Vets here in the Springs. Last night I was at a BBQ at Ft. Carson hosted by Major General Perkins and at an Equal Opportunity Dinner to celebrate Independence Day.
I wish you and your family a safe fourth of July. Please see my newsletter below with information on the conservation scorecard, free lunches, the foreclosure hotline and my summer listening tour.
Sincerely,
Dennis Apuan
CONSERVATION SCORECARD
I'm proud to announce Colorado Conservation Voters (CCV) just released its scorecard on the 2010 state legislative session. The scorecard ranks legislators like me for our support and sponsorship on issues like renewable energy programs and projects that bring good, green-collar jobs to Colorado; phasing out dirty coal plants to turn our brown skies blue - forever. I am proud to say I received a 100% rating in 2010. My commitment to preserving our communities for our children and grandchildren so that they always have fresh drinking water, beautiful landscapes, and a healthy environment drives my commitment to public service.
KIDS EAT FREE ALL SUMMER LONG
I'm inviting families to take advantage of the 2010 Summer Food Service Program. Care and Share and the YMCA Day Camp are providing free, healthy and delicious lunches to kids. Parents can eat meals with their children for just $2!
WHEN: every Monday through Friday 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM from now through August 6th (the program is closed Monday, July 5th for the holiday).
WHERE: YMCA Day Camp / Turman Elementary, 3245 Springnite Drive Colorado Springs 80916
HELP FOR FAMILIES FACING FORECLOSURE
If you know of anyone facing foreclosure, please urge them to contact the Colorado Foreclosure Hotline at 1-877-601-HOPE (4673). The hotline is staffed with HUD-approved nonprofit housing counselors who can talk with them about their mortgage. Studies have shown that four out of five homeowners who use the Foreclosure Hotline stand a good chance of saving their home at no cost.
To learn more about your options if you are either in or facing foreclosure, visit the Mortgage Fraud Information Center. Colorado consumers can file a complaint if they believe they have been the victim of fraud at www.coloradoattorneygeneral.gov/complaint.
SUMMER LISTENING TOUR SCHEDULE-VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
With the legislature recessed, I'm continuing my summer listening tour, trying to visit constituents in every neighborhood in House District 17. It is important to me to be transparent and accountable to you-the people of House District 17. Please call or email Judi to let her know you will be volunteering jkingelido09@q.com or (719) 475-0508.
WHERE: Meet in Walgreen's parking lot at SE corner of Chelton and Academy
WHEN:
July 5, 4-6:30pm
July 6, 4-6:30pm
July 7, 4-6:30pm
July 8, 4-6:30pm
July 10, 10am-12:30pm
July13, 4-6:30pm
July 15 4-6:30pm
July 17 , 9:30am-12 noon (refreshments to follow at Sand Creek Library 12-1pm)
Sincerely,
Dennis Apuan
House District 17
April Legislative Update
In this newsletter:
Coffee This Saturday
State Tax Survey
Legislative Update
Happenings in our Community
Hello friends and neighbors,
I hope that you are all enjoying a lovely spring so far. We have been very busy at the capitol accomplishing all that we set out to do this session. So far we have been successful at cutting government spending and passing new and inventive legislation, while at the same time ensuring the well-being of all Coloradans.
Coffee this Saturday
Please join me this Saturday April 17, 2010 for coffee and conversation at Nanay Betty's Filipino Restaurant from 12:00pm to 1:00pm. Nanay Betty's is located at 1861 S. Academy Boulevard Colorado Springs, Co 80916 at the NE corner of South Academy Boulevard and Chelton Rd. Click here for directions.
State Tax Survey
I want to hear what you have to say about this important issue. Please fill out this survey so that you can have your voice heard. Just click here and answer the questions.
Legislative Update
Here is what I have been working on the last couple of weeks at the capitol:
HB 1400 just passed in the Business Affairs and Labor Committee by a vote of 9-2. The purpose of this bill is to protect taxpayers from the high interest loans that tax preparers issue based on their anticipated refund. This bill requires tax preparers who facilitate advanced loans on tax refunds to follow certain consumer protection safeguards including the requirement to post their fee structure as well as alternatives to this type of loan. The bill will take effect in time for next year's returns.
HB 1366 is currently working its way through the House, after passing out of committee unanimously. The bill limits the ability of those who have been punished for certain crimes from circulating petitions for initiatives or referendums.
Click here to follow the status of all the bills I am sponsoring this session
Current Happenings on our Community
Fort Carson and the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments will be hosting the Fort Carson Community Partnership Town Hall meeting Friday, April 16, from 3-6 p.m. at the Doubletree World Arena. I will be there and I encourage all of you attend.
Thank you all and have a great April! Please feel free to contact my office at any time with any questions you have. I look forward to seeing you this Saturday at the coffee.
Dennis Apuan
House District 17
(303)866-3069
www.dennisapuan.com
repdennisapuan@gmail.com
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