Honoring compassionate Coloradans 70 years after plane bombing
On Nov. 1, 1955, minutes after leaving Stapleton Airport, United Airlines Flight 629 exploded over Colorado farmland, killing all 44 aboard — including my father. It was the first confirmed plane bombing on U.S. soil, caused by a suitcase bomb planted by a passenger’s family member seeking insurance money.
What followed was extraordinary: Hundreds of Coloradans — farmers, ranchers, neighbors — joined law enforcement, the FBI, and National Guard in a massive search and recovery effort. Their unity and compassion became a defining moment of hope.
As the daughter of one of the victims, I offer my deepest thanks to the citizens of Weld and Boulder Counties. Your bravery and kindness 70 years ago still echo today.
On Saturday, Denver Police Museum and Wings Over the Rockies Museum will host the 70th Anniversary Memorial. These events honor not just the victims, but the everyday heroes who responded.
There is more to this tragic, evil event beyond the crime. At this forum, I will be sharing how my family overcame this trauma and how the American spirit was displayed through these brave Colorado citizens. Bringing the story of Flight 629 full circle, from ashes to beauty.
In a time of division, this story reminds us what the American spirit looks like: love, service, and unity.
May we carry that legacy forward.
Marian Poeppelmeyer, Columbus, Ohio
This Election Day, vote for fire districts
As we turn back the clocks and check smoke alarm batteries, it’s worth remembering that many Colorado fire districts are struggling to meet growing demands with shrinking budgets. Lower property tax rates have unintentionally reduced funding, forcing departments to stretch aging equipment, defer training and operate with fewer firefighters.
Fire departments don’t just fight wildfires; they’re first on the scene for house fires, traffic accidents and medical emergencies. Every minute matters, and without proper staffing and modern tools, response times and outcomes suffer.
Several Colorado fire districts are asking voters to approve additional funding this fall at the ballot box. Colorado’s firefighters are dedicated, skilled and deeply connected to their communities. Investing in local fire districts is investing in public safety — and in the resilience of every Colorado community. Please support these issues and give your fire department the tools needed to keep your community safe.
Ken Watkins, Broomfield
Editor’s note: Watkins is executive director of Colorado State Fire Chiefs.
Vote yes to ban sale of flavored tobacco in Denver
I am voting Yes on Referendum 310 to end the sale of flavored tobacco. As a nurse practitioner, volunteer with the American Heart Association and resident of Denver’s Congress Park, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of tobacco use on children and families.
Every day, I care for patients whose lives have been irreversibly altered by smoking-related illnesses like lung disease, heart disease and cancer. It is heartbreaking.
But it is made worse knowing that many of my patients first got hooked using flavored tobacco. These products are a trap. Cotton candy? Mango twist? They are designed to attract young people. They mask the harsh taste of tobacco and hide the dangers of nicotine addiction, making it easy for kids and teens to experiment. And too often, it is the beginning of a dangerous path that leads to lifelong addiction and devastating health consequences.
My yes vote on 310 will protect kids and save lives.
Margaret Forbes, Denver
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