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!
- 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
- 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!

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:
- Wear sunscreen – SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every 2 hours.
- Cover up – Choose lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Seek shade – Especially between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the sun rays are strongest.
- Be aware of reflective surfaces – Water, sand, and concrete can increase UV exposure.
- 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




Call for Petitions

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.
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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.

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
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
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