DID YOU KNOW
Casimiro Barela
Casimiro Barela was born in Embudo, N.M., in 1847 during the U.S.-Mexico War. When the war ended in 1848, the territory where he lived was turned over to the United States.
Barela became a successful merchant from the Trinidad area, where he ranched and established several other businesses. He first held political office at 22, when he was elected Trinidad’s justice of the peace.
In 1875, he became a member of Colorado’s Constitutional Convention. Barela was instrumental in ensuring that the Colorado Constitution was printed in English and Spanish, so that
Spanish-speaking people of the state could understand Colorado laws. He also insisted that the document be published in German, as Colorado also had a large German population.
Barela was elected to the state Senate in 1876, where he served for nearly 40 years, earning the nickname of “Perpetual Senator.” He was known for supporting progressive causes, including women’s voting rights.
Barela’s stained-glass portrait is one of 16 featured in the rotunda of the state Capitol that honor citizens who made significant contributions to the state.
Source: Colorado State Archives (colorado.gov/dpa/doit/ archives/arcbiog.html); Maya D. Wright, Colorado Historical Society; trinidadco.com/WalkingTour/Barela.asp; “1001 Colorado Place Names,” by Maxine Benson
REGIONAL NOTES
LAKEWOOD
Fire muster to teach safety to kids
The West Metro Fire Protection District is hosting a Family Fire Muster on Saturday to teach kids about safety in a fun setting.
The free event, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Red Rocks Community College, is an outdoor learning experience designed to teach children and their parents how to be and stay safe.
Among the programs at this year’s event are:
- Tools Not Toys, teaching preschoolers the potential dangers of real tools.
- Practice 911, including speaking to a dispatcher.
- Teddy Bear Clinic, practicing first-aid techniques on stuffed animals.
- Bike Rodeo, teaching young cyclists to wear helmets and obey rules of the road using a tricycle course.
For more information, go to westmetrofire.org or call 303-989-4307.
JEFFERSON COUNTY
Look out for wildflowers at fest
The Lookout Mountain Wildflower Festival on Saturday and Sunday will provide color and a respite from the heat.
The free event, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, will be at the Lookout Mountain Nature Center. Take Exit 256 from Interstate 70 and follow the brown signs to the preserve.
For more information, call 720-497-7600 or go to openspace.jeffco.us.
