On Aug. 1, 1876, Colorado was admitted to the union 100 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Colorado was given the nickname, “The Centennial State.” As America marks 250 years, Colorado celebrates 150 years. If you are interested in events around Colorado highlighting its 150th anniversary, check out https://www.colorado.com/am250-co150-events.
As we celebrate this summer, we are a divided country. No matter your political leanings, I think we can all agree that there is a disconnect in this country. And I’m sure we all have different ideas regarding the reasons for what often feels like a broken society.
Interestingly, there is a movement taking place in our country right now that, I think, could demand big changes in the leadership of our country.
According to Gallop polls, across the United States, more voters are choosing to register as independents or unaffiliated rather than identifying with either the Republican or Democratic Party. Almost half of American adults now refer to themselves as independents, the highest level ever recorded by Gallup.
The trend speaks to the growing dissatisfaction with the two-party system, increasing political polarization, a lack of confidence in our leaders and a desire for greater flexibility in choosing candidates based on issues rather than party labels. Younger voters, in particular, are more likely to identify as independent than older generations. I have a friend who is a baby boomer and he has told me numerous times, “I’m a Republican, and I will always vote for the Republican party.”
Some independent voters will still lean toward one major party, but the growing number of independent voters is becoming an influential group, encouraging candidates to compete for their support. It will be an interesting trend to watch.
Speaking of independence, there is a letter to the editor in this issue that calls for Falcon residents to once again study the possibility of incorporating. Twenty years ago, we had many discussions about Falcon incorporating. However, many of the people involved moved on or out of the area — a couple of them died. As growth took over, a new population moved in — they were not as engaged in the community as the old timers. However, it has been brought up again in various circles around town. Read the letter to the editor, and let us know what you think about becoming an independent, incorporated little town!
We have some interesting articles in this issue. On the front page, Pete Gawda gives us more history about Colorado’s 150th anniversary. And Deb Risden highlights District 49’s 14 schools that earned the Colorado Department of Education’s Accredited with Distinction designation during the 2024 and 2025 school years. Inside you will find photos and more local stories. Yesteryear is back this month. Please note that one of our popular columns, Prairie Life, is on hiatus this month. Bill will be back soon with more adventures on the prairie.
I hope you have had a safe and fun Fourth of July. Enjoy the rest of the month.
See you in August
Michelle
