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Employee Newsletter - August/September 2025

Late Summer Updates: News & Events

Hello City of Lamar Team,

As we wrap up the summer and transition into early fall, we’d like to share the latest updates from across the city. In this issue, you’ll find highlights of current projects, upcoming community events, and ways to stay connected. Thank you for your continued dedication and hard work in serving our residents through this busy time of year.

Staff Birthdays

Please join us in wishing a very happy birthday to all our teammates celebrating in August and September!  We’re so lucky to have each of you as part of our team.

And here’s a fun twist – six of our employees share the same birthday!  That’s right, they’re our official Birthday Crew for August and September.  

We will be sharing shout-outs to other birthday buddies all year long, so stay tuned for more celebrations to come!

August 2025 
  • Curt Bender
  • Corey Reamy
  • Kenneth Martin
  • Lloyd Martinson
  • Ethan Koester
  • Martin Gonzalez Barraza
  • Michael Bannister
  • Robert Martinez
  • Mike Bellomy
  • Tracy Fagan
  • Manuel Tamez
  • Elvira Gonzalez
  • William Kisamore
  • Brenda May
  • Jason Gass
  • Brenda Appel
  • Jayson Loveland
September 2025 
  • Isaac Felan
  • Elise Crockett
  • Leodegario Hernandez
  • Madison Park
  • Joe Zavala   
  • Kyea Comer
  • Chelsey Figueroa
  • Stephanie Cook
  • Kristin Schwartz
  • Clay Martin
  • Heather Burkhart
  • Tyndan Marquez
  • Joseph Brown
  • Dakota Birt
  • Elizabeth Mason
  • Bianca Hernandez
  • Jessica Collins

City of Lamar Shoutout Nominations!

 

Staff Changes

It is our pleasure to announce that the following employees have joined the City of Lamar. 

  • Joseph “Eddie” Alonzo – returning employee, seasonal maintenance worker, Public Works, Water Department 
  • Dillon J Buford – Apprentice Lineman, Lamar Light & Power
  • Geremiah E. Gonzales Ramirez – Apprentice Lineman, Lamar Light & Power
  • Nathan R. Losa – returning employee - part-time Police Officer, Police Department
  • Isaac D. Lyons – change in status from part-time to full-time Aircraft Service Attendant, Airport

Human Resources Updates

We Want Your Wellness Ideas!

Our annual Wellness Fair is coming up in September, and we want to make it as meaningful and engaging as possible.  Do you have topics, activities, or vendors you’d like to see at this year’s event?  Please share your suggestions for wellness topics, whether it’s fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, financial wellness, or something new to explore.

Submit your ideas by Friday, August 8 to HR@ci.lamar.co.us  Your input helps us create a Wellness Fair that supports everyone’s health and well-being!

Margaret Saldana, Human Resources Manager

    Wellness Board at Community Development

    Have you started your Wellness Board for your Department? We want to see yours! Send a photo of your department’s Wellness Board to info@ci.lamar.co.us to be featured in the next City of Lamar Employee Newsletter. If you have questions or ideas for your department’s Wellness Board or other activities, reach out to Margaret Saldana or Courtney Recio. We would love to hear from you!

    A bulletin board with motivational quotes, tips for healthy living, and a 30-day self-care challenge.

    July is Sun Safety

    This month the spotlight is on sun safety and what each of us working for the City of Lamar can do to promote safety awareness.

    Sun Safety: Protect Yourself Year-Round

    Even on cloudy days, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer and eye problems.  Protect yourself with these simple steps:

    1. Wear sunscreen – SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours.
    2. Cover up – Choose lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
    3. Seek shade – Especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun rays are strongest.
    4. Be aware of reflective surfaces – Water, sand, and concrete can increase UV exposure.
    5. Check your skin regularly – Early detection of changes or  new spots on skin can save your life!

    Healthy skin starts with daily protection!  Read more about Sun Safety in this month’s CTSI Health Awareness letter for July.  Click here:  Health-Awareness-July-2025

    City of Lamar Wellness Guide

    How the Wellness Program Works

    • The program runs January 1 – December 31 each year.
    • Join in on pre-approved activities and events that promote wellness.
    • Each activity is assigned a gift value by the Wellness Committee.
    • Did you know? You can also submit receipts from doctor’s appointments, dental checkups, vision exams, and other health-related visits to earn credit toward your wellness goals! Example: You can submit a recent receipt from a dental checkup and earn a $25 Amazon gift card.

    Visit our website for more information:  https://ci.lamar.co.us/wellness-program

    News

    New Fishing Dock at North Gateway Park

    Exciting news from the City of Lamar! An additional fishing dock is now open at North Gateway Park, on the north side of Pond #2 (1398 Valco Road). This wheelchair-accessible dock ensures that everyone, including those with mobility challenges can enjoy fishing and the great outdoors.

    We would also like to give a shout-out to our crews from Parks & Recreation and the Streets Department. Their hard work and collaboration were instrumental in bringing this project to life. Read the full press release here: https://ci.lamar.co.us/north-gateway-park-adds-fishing-dock

    A dock with railings extends over a calm body of water, under a cloudy sky, with buildings and power lines in the background.
    People assemble a floating platform on a lake under a clear sky.
    Accessible parking spaces near a body of water, with clear signage and markings.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    A truck by a lake under a big, partly cloudy sky with grass and a pier.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Call for Petitions

    Lamar City Election: Petitions for Nominations. Image shows an empty council room with the City of Lamar seal.

    The City of Lamar will begin accepting Petitions for Nomination for the upcoming municipal election, scheduled for November, starting on August 6, 2025. Eligible individuals interested in running for Mayor or City Council may pick up petitions at the City Clerk’s Office located in the City Complex at 102 East Parmenter in Lamar. The deadline to file completed petitions with the City Clerk is 4:00 PM on August 29, 2025.

    Positions open for re-election:

    Ward I – One City Council Member (Four-Year Term)

    Ward II – One City Council Member (Four-Year Term)

    Ward III – One City Council Member (Four-Year Term)

    At-Large – Mayor (Two-Year Term)

    For full details, visit  https://ci.lamar.co.us/notice-city-of-lamar-call-for-petitions or contact the City Clerk’s Office. This is our citizens' opportunity to get involved and help shape the future of Lamar.

    Employment Opportunities with the City of Lamar

    The City of Lamar is currently accepting applications for a variety of positions across multiple departments.

    To learn more or to apply, visit our website for a current list of job openings. https://ci.lamar.co.us/employment-opportunities.

    City of Lamar Board Vacancies

    The City of Lamar is currently accepting applications for appointments to multiple boards. Applicants may complete online form available or print a form at https://ci.lamar.co.us/boards-commissions. Completed forms can be sent to City of Lamar, City Administrator’s Office, 102 E. Parmenter, Lamar, CO 81052-3239. Applications will be accepted until position(s) are filled. 

    Upcoming Events

    Common Grounds

    Join the City Council and staff for Common Grounds on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, starting at 7:00 AM. Enjoy fresh coffee, tasty donuts, and great conversation as we highlight this month’s featured department: the Lamar Police Department.

    Gold trophy with laurel wreath, "The Corporate Cup 2025," presented by Main Street Lamar.

    Corporate Cup 2025 Schedule - 

    Locations (may change due to weather):
    • Yellow Field at Lamar Ballparks on Savage Avenue & Main Street
    • North Gateway Park, 1402 Valco Road, Pond #3

    For updated information:  https://www.mainstreetlamar.com/corporatecup.html

    Friday evening (8/1)
    • Beach Volleyball Tournament 5:30 PM
    All day Saturday (8/2) - all day excitement!
    • Predicted 5K Run/Walk - 8:00 AM
    • Fishing Tournament 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Community Togetherness Project - 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Kayak Races - 1:00 PM
    • Beach Volleyball Tournament - 1:30 PM

    Main Street Lamar would like to thank all of our 2025 Corporate Cup sponsors:

    Platinum Sponsors
    • Walmart
    • City of Lamar
    Silver Sponsors
    • Prowers Medical Center
    • Lamar Parks & Rec
    • Electra Pro LLC

    Our Parks and Recreation Department has exciting news!!

    Join us for our Community Workout Challenge 

    Where do you run, bike, or walk your dog in Lamar? Get moving and help shape the future of our parks!

    How to Participate:

    • Use your favorite exercise app to track your route while running, walking, jogging, biking, or walking your dog.
    • After your workout, take a screenshot of your route.
    • Email your screenshot to tyndan.marquez@ci.lamar.co.us for your chance to win prizes!

    For more information or running/biking app ideas, please visit:  https://ci.lamar.co.us/community-workout-challenge.

    Community Workout Challenge: Track your route via an app in Lamar. Email your screenshot to enter and win prizes.

    Back 2 School Bash! @ Grace Family Worship Center

    The Back 2 School Annual event will be taking place on August 2, 2025 from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM at the Grace Family Worship Center (Lee Avenue west of Rivals). This event offers free school supplies for K-12th grade students at Lamar, Granada, McClave, Holly, and Wiley Schools as well as online/homeschools. 

    SECCI's 2nd Annual Fight Night Fundraiser @ The Pocket Park in Lamar

    Join SECCI for their 2nd Annual Fight Night Fundraiser on Saturday, August 2nd from 6:00 to 10:00 PM at the Shore Arts Center Park (Pocket Park) in Downtown Lamar. Doors and vendors open at 5:30 PM. This special evening is all about bringing the community together to support local cancer patients in Southeast Colorado.

    The night will feature live music from JUDI, delicious food and drinks from vendors, including Mami’s Kitchen; Jerry’s Doghouse; Pica Dulce by Shai; Rosa’s Tamales; and Nena’s Lemonade. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, giveaways, and powerful moments of connection.

    Hospice Backyard Bash Fundraiser

    Event details to come. Check the Lamar Chamber’s Facebook for more details as the date approaches.

    Community & City Events

    August 2025 

    Friday, August 1

    Corporate Cup (MSL) North Gateway Park 1402 Valco Road, Pond #3, Lamar, CO 81052

    • Beach Volleyball Tournament -5:30 P

    Saturday, August 2
    Sand & Sage Fair Begins

    Back 2 School Bash! @ Grace Family Worship Center 9:00 A – 1:00 P

    Corporate Cup (MSL) North Gateway Park, 1402 Valco Road, Pond #3, Lamar, CO 81052

    All day Saturday (8/2) - All Day Excitement!

    • Predicted 5K Run/Walk - 8:00 A
    • Fishing Tournament 8:00 AM - 4:00 P
    • Community Togetherness Project - 10:00 AM - 1:00 P
    • Kayak Races - 1:00 P
    • Beach Volleyball Tournament (continued) - 1:30 P

    SECCI's 2nd Annual Fight Night Fundraiser @ Pocket Park 6:00-10:00 P

    Lamar Public Library Monthly Book Sale 9:00 A – 1:00 P

    Lamar Stitch Crafters! 2:00-3:30 P

    Monday, August 4

    Prowers County Genealogical Society Meeting 6:00 P

    Main Street Lamar Board Meeting 6:00 P

    Tuesday, August 5

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Wednesday, August 6

    Kid’s Day at Sand and Sage Fair 9:00 A – 12:00 P

    Common Grounds with City Council featuring the Lamar Police Department 7:00 A

    Prowers County Zonta Ham & Bean Dinner @ Sand & Sage Fair 5:00 P

    Prowers County Zonta Homemade Pie Auction @ Sand & Sage Fair 5:30 P

    Sun Valley Ride Carnival Rides Start in the evening

    Thursday, August 7

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Friday, August 8

    Sand and Sage PRCA Rodeo 7:00 P

    Maddie & Tae in Concert following the rodeo 

    Saturday, August 9

    Sand & Sage Fair Parade 10:00 A

    MSL’s Plastic Recycle Day! @ Public Works 10:00 A – 12:00 P

    Lamar Stitch Crafters! 2:00-3:30 P

    Sand and Sage PRCA Rodeo 7:00 P

    Monday, August 11

    Lamar School District RE-2 – 1st Day of School (Grades 6, 9, and new students)

    Lamar Schools Board Meeting 5:30 P

    Lamar City Council Meeting @ City Complex 7:00 P

    Tuesday, August 12

    Lamar School District RE-2 – 1st Day of School (Grades 6-12)

    Prowers County Commissioners meeting 1:00 P

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Wednesday, August 13

    Lamar School District RE-2 – 1st Day of School (Grades K-5)

    Thursday, August 14

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Friday, August 15

    LPL Karaoke! 2:00-3:00 P

    Saturday, August 16

    Lamar Stitch Crafters! 2:00-3:30 P

    Sunday, August 17

    Colorado Warriors Baseball Tryouts @ Lamar Sports Complex Registration at 12:30 P, Starts at 1:00 PM

    Cub Scout Pack 223 – Rocket Academy @ Prowers County Fairgrounds 2:00 P

    Monday, August 18

    PEP Board Meeting 12:00 P

    Lamar Community College – Fall Semester Starts

    Tuesday, August 19

    Lodging Panel Board Meeting 4:00 P

    Lamar Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 6:00 P

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Thursday, August 21

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Friday, August 22

    Brewing Connections: Mental Health Done Differently @ Brew Unto Others 8:30 A – 3:00 P

    Saturday, August 23

    MSL’s Plastic Recycle Day! @ Public Works 10:00 A – 12:00 P

    Lamar Stitch Crafters! 2:00-3:30 P

    Monday, August 25
    Lamar City Council Meeting @ City Complex 7:00 P

    Tuesday, August 26

    Prowers County Commissioners meeting 1:00 P

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Thursday, August 28

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Saturday, August 30

    Free Dump Weekend 8:30 A - 3:30 P

    Lamar Stitch Crafters! 2:00-3:30 P

    Sunday, August 31

    Free Dump Weekend 12:30 P - 3:30 P

    September 2025 

    Monday, September 1

    Labor Day (All City Offices Closed)

    Tuesday, September 2

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Wednesday, September 3

    Common Grounds with City Council 7:00 A

    Thursday, September 4

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Friday, September 5

    Carnival at Lamar Public Library 10:00 A

    Saturday, September 6

    Annual Tri-State 911 Tribute & Parade

    • Parade @ 10:00 AM
    • BSA Flag Retirement 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    • BBQ @ 12:00 PM
    • Formal 9-11 Remembrance @ 1:00 PM
    • Quilts of Valor Presentations @ 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM
    • 20' x 30' American Flag Dedication & Ice Cream Social @ 3:00 p.m. (located on the west side of Prowers County Courthouse, coordinated by Lamar Lions Club)
    • Hall of Honor (located in Prowers County Fairgrounds Centennial Building)
    • Highlights & Booths 
      • For inquiries, contact Doug Harbour @ 719-691-0959

    Lamar Stitch Crafters! 2:00-3:30 P

    Monday, September 8
    PEP Board Meeting 12:00 P

    Lamar City Council Meeting @ City Complex 7:00 P

    Tuesday, September 9

    Prowers County Commissioners Meeting 1:00 P

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Thursday, September 11

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Friday, September 12

    Guest Speaker - Port Authority Law Enforcement Officer William Jimeno (World Trade Center Survior and Hero) @ 7:00 PM at the Lamar Community Building. Seating is limited to the first 1,500 attendees. 

    Saturday, September 13

    Special Event: Unveiling of bronze sculpture of Officer Jimeno @ 10:00 AM located at the 9-11 Tribute Memorial on the curve (World Trade Center Survivor and Hero - Annual Tri-State 911 Tribute Foundation)

    MSL’s Plastic Recycle Day! @ Public Works 10:00 A – 12:00 P

    Hospice Backyard Bash Fundraiser

    Monday, September 15

    Lamar Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 6:00 P

    Tuesday, September 16

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Thursday, September 19

    LPL Karaoke! 2:00-3:00 P

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Monday, September 22

    Brewing Connections: Mental Health Done Differently @ Brew Unto Others 8:30 A – 3:00 P

    Lamar City Council Meeting @ City Complex 7:00 P

    Tuesday, September 23

    Prowers County Commissioners Meeting 1:00 P

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

    Thursday, September 25

    Elks Bingo 7:00 P

    Saturday, September 27

    MSL’s Plastic Recycle Day! @ Public Works 10:00 A – 12:00 P

    Lamar Stitch Crafters! 2:00-3:30 P

    Free Dump Weekend 8:30 A - 3:30 P

    Sunday, September 28

    Free Dump Weekend 12:30 P - 3:30 P

    Tuesday, September 30

    Eagles Bingo 7:00 P

     

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