Dear Editor,

Another successful 9Health Fair has come and gone. Last year, my neighbor Rik from the Boulder Sheriffs Department drew my blood sample for lab tests and this year the task fell to Janet from Mountain Family Health Center in Black Hawk. They, along with a host of others ranging from health professionals to the large crew that keep the whole event moving along, contribute their skills (and their precious Saturday morning) to provide health screenings at reasonable rates (many of which are free) to area residents.

Many of the participants have limited means or mobility or both and these screenings are crucial to them. Many like myself, want to save some money and a trip to the metropolis. And say hi to our neighbors and reward ourselves afterwards with a coffee and chocolate croissant at our favorite pastry place. Thanks to all the volunteers who make this event possible as well as Channel 9 and the corporate sponsors.

Also worthy of recognition is local healthcare: Recently, the hard-working staff of MFHC Black Hawk was recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a Level 3 Patient Centered Medical Home 2011​. The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home 2011 standards emphasize the use of systematic, patient-centered, coordinated care that supports access, communication, and patient involvement. On behalf of the Board, let me congratulate the Black Hawk Center for their continued service to the mountain community.

Tom Lambrecht

Rollinsville