Loveland honors life-saving neighbors and proclaims September 2025 Hunger Action Month

The City of Loveland opened its Sept. 16 regular meeting with community recognitions: the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority presented the Fire Chief's Community Life Safety Award to three people who intervened in separate emergencies, and the council proclaimed September 2025 as Hunger Action Month.

Why it matters: Public recognition highlights civilian interventions in emergencies and spotlights the Food Bank for Larimer County's work feeding tens of thousands of area residents.

Fire chief awards: Fire Chief Sindelbach recognized three citizens whose actions saved lives. Paul Cardarelli entered a burning home on North Harrison Avenue, rescued two residents who had disabilities and awakened them after smoke alarms were nonfunctional. A 14-year-old, Austin Crosby, called 911 and helped provide medical and historical information to first responders when her mother became ill while driving; Chief Sindelbach noted the dispatcher also provided critical information. Dr. Colin Ryburn administered CPR at the scene of an injured driver and continued until engine 45 arrived, the chief said.

Proclamation: Councilor Leitkovich read a proclamation designating September 2025 as Hunger Action Month in Loveland. Kelsey Hammond, representing the Food Bank for Larimer County, accepted the proclamation and described the food bank's recent annual service levels: the food bank served more than 54,000 people last year, including nearly 16,000 children, and distributed food equivalent to about 10 million meals.

Ending: The awards and proclamation were ceremonial; no council action was required beyond the formal proclamation and presentation.