Friends of the Lower Blue River, a volunteer group dedicated to environmental, agricultural and infrastructural issues in the lower Blue River Valley, has announced the recipients of their 2025 and 2026 Friends of the Lower Blue River Founders Awards. Amstutz, a former board member with the organization, helped establish the group’s annual Colorado Highway 9 clean-up event. The recipient of the 2026 award, Bob Girvin, also served as a board member. During his time with Friends of the Lower Blue River, Girvin’s work focused on preserving the historic Slate Creek Hall building. Amstutz and Girvin will be presented with their awards during the organization’s annual gathering at Slate Creek Hall on Sunday, Aug. 2.