Canyon Courier November 14, 2024

Buchanan Park Recreation Center

Je co voters pass ballot measure 1A

The

BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Je erson County voters passed ballot measure 1A by a wide margin, signifying their readiness to eliminate the revenue cap set by TABOR, the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights, and allow the county to retain the total revenue it collects from property taxes.

While results are still uno cial, the majority of votes favored allowing the county to retain approximately $30 million in additional revenue.

Je erson County Sheri Reggie Marinelli took to social media to thank voters for their support.

“With the passing of Ballot 1A, we’re grateful for the opportunity to enhance our capabilities for safer roads, wild re prevention, mental health support and crime prevention e orts,” she said.

“Your support enables us to strengthen vital services that keep our community safe and resilient. We look forward to delivering the highest level of service and transparency you deserve and to continue to maintain your trust in us. Together, we’re building a stronger Je erson County.”

e property tax revenue from 1A must be invested in transportation and infrastructure and public safety programs like wild re and ood mitigation and response, addiction and mental health programs, crime prevention programs and strategies and other county public safety functions.

e measure also sets up a citizen’s advisory committee of volunteers to provide input on where and how to spend the additional

Caden Knight waits for water to fall from one of Buchanan Rec Center’s new pool features.

PHOTO BY JANE REUTER

Voters favor newcomers Nash and Bernhardt and incumbent Leonard in Morrison Town Board election

Incumbent Forey trails

in quest to help lead the town for the next four years

BY JANE REUTER

Uno cial election results show Morrison voters elected two newcomers — Krista Nash and Angela Bernhardt — and re-elected incumbent John Leonard to take three open seats on the Morrison Town Board.

Incumbent and former mayor Sean Forey appears to have lost, securing a total of 92 votes, or 21% of the total votes cast. Bernhardt said she’s looking forward to working for the town.

“I’m excited to see what we can do in the future, how we can make Morrison better and get the income we need to make our town grow and support our police force and businesses,” she said. “I’m excited to gure out how the town works,

and to putting my business and economics degree to use.”

Nash and Leonard did not respond to requests for comment.

Of the three who appear to have gained seats on the board, John Leonard garnered the most votes at 121, followed closely by Bernhardt with 118 votes and Nash with 112.

Current Morrison trustee Katie Gill is term-limited and consequently will step down from her seat.

Leonard, also a longtime resident, was appointed to the town board in September 2022. He works as chief operating o cer of Northstar Group Services, an environmental services company headquartered in New York, and holds a degree in nance and management information systems from Syracuse University.

Bernhardt, a stay-at-home mother to an 8-year-old daughter, is a central Florida native who’s lived in Morrison about 15 years. For several years, she ran the Cli House Lodge. She also started a nowdefunct town event called Alley Fest. She

Change will eliminate need to hold a special election for a board vacancy

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Morrison’s proposed charter amendment on board vacancies passed easily during the Nov. 5 election.

e amendment is designed to mitigate the impacts of the town’s small size and limited pool of eligible candidates to serve on the town board by removing

MEASURE 1A

revenue.

Leading up to this year’s election, some county o cials had started sounding the alarm that public safety funds were falling short and the county was facing serious challenges.

“We’re basically working the street right now with about the same amount of deputies who were working in 2003, but the county has grown tremendously,” Marinelli said in September. “We can’t keep cutting.”

e measure enjoyed widespread support from community organizations, including Je erson County Public Schools, the Je co Economic Development Corporation, the League of Women Voters of Je erson County and the Je co Advocacy Network.

e mayors and city councils of Wheat Ridge, Lakewood, Golden, Morrison, Edgewater and Arvada also endorsed 1A.

Prior to passing 1A, Je erson County was one of only two counties in the state that did not allow some level of revenue retention over the limit imposed by state law.

is a board member for the town’s annual Ciderfest.

Nash is an attorney with Children First Family Law who also owns the Morrison

Mercantile building. She holds degrees in both law and journalism. Her parents, Rolf and Virginia Paul, were actively involved in town government and business.

Morrison charter amendment wins

a requirement for a special election if a board member resigns and isn’t quickly replaced.  at change is intended to alleviate the pressure of a time limit to nd candidates for such an election, and trustees hope it will give other residents time to consider serving on the board.

e current town charter requires a special election be called when a vacancy is not lled within 60 days and no regular election is scheduled within 90 days.

Trustees have the option to appoint a replacement, but during recent discussions at a town board meeting, several said they’d like to avoid that practice. Instead, they’d prefer to operate with fewer trust-

ees until residents can choose the next trustee in a regular election. e board can operate with as few as ve trustees and cast votes with a quorum of only four.

“In the past, we’ve tended to appoint people,” rather than hold a special election, Trustee Paul Sutton said. “ en it was the same people appointing their friends. I think this (waiting for a general election) is healthier.

“We have trouble getting people to even run for the board,” he continued.“A lot of municipalities facing similar issues are just reducing the number of board members to ve.”

Trustee Katie Gill said the board has appointed four trustees since she’s been

serving.

“Our community should be choosing their elected representatives, not the board,” she said. “Appointments should be rare, and they got pretty common for a while. Sometimes we’re twisting someone’s arm and that concerns me.

“I would like to have seven willing people on the board, or the ability to operate with fewer until a proper appointment is made, or someone can be elected,” Gill continued.

To further encourage people to run for the board, Morrison trustees elected after the November 2026 election will be paid $500 a month and the mayor $750 a month.

Je erson County Sheri Reggie Marinelli, left, celebrates Ballot Question 1A

Night results come in Nov. 5 at a Je co Democrats watch party. The ballot question asked for the county to retain property tax revenues for transportation infrastructure and public safety.

PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN

From left to right, incumbent John Leonard, Krista Nash, Angela Bernhardt and incumbent Sean Forey during an October candidates forum at the Morrison Town Hall. FILE PHOTO

Reflections on Writing & Publishing My 1,000th ‘Real Estate Today’ Column

Because journalism was my first profession, writing a column about real estate seemed an obvious way to make myself known when I entered the real estate industry in 2003. The first column I published as a paid advertisement was on July 30, 2003, and I estimate that I have published at least 1,000 columns since then — 52 columns per year for most of the last 21 years. And every one was written by me, on a new topic each week.

have never written a column which embarrassed me due to something I wrote. (I still show each column to my wife, Rita, and to my broker associates before sending it for publication.)

From the beginning, I saw this column as “my own continuing education program,” because I had to study each topic before I could write knowledgeably about it. At first, that meant showing the first draft to my managing broker at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, to make sure I had my facts right. Even now, I will often send a first draft to another broker who has expertise I don’t in the topic I chose to write about that week.

You can see the topics of those columns going back to July 2003 at www.JimSmithColumns.com

The links on those original columns don’t all work, but you can at least see the headlines.

cal homeowner, with letters and postcards saying, “I have a buyer for your home” — which may or may not be the truth. I much prefer to spend those hours being of service to the general public, studying every aspect of real estate that I can think of where I myself would like to know more, and then sharing it with you.

tation where the seller mentioned a particular issue of concern to them. “I wrote about that a few years ago,” I said, whereupon the seller opened a manila folder in which that old column was on the top of the pile.

As a result, I can honestly say that I

I don’t know of any real estate agents anywhere in the country who have taken this approach to promoting themselves, but that may be due to the fact that the vast majority of people in any profession other than the writing professions have trouble expressing themselves in writing — and it’s a big commitment of time. If I weren’t writing this column, I’d probably have to spend hours every day or week prospecting — making cold calls or knocking on doors soliciting sellers and buyers. I might have been one of those agents who bombards you, the typi-

We Learned Firsthand About Vacant Land Scams

The Colorado Association of Realtors (CAR) issued a warning last month about scammers trying to sell vacant land that they don’t own in Douglas County, adding that it may be happening in other counties.

One of our broker associates found himself caught up in just such a scam even before that alert was issued. Here is how the scam unfolded and was discovered, so that the property owner and buyer were not victimized.

Via our website, we received an inquiry about listing a parcel of land in Coal Creek Canyon, so I referred the lead to a broker associate who lives nearby. He quickly got a signed listing for the property at $100,000, and I advertised the parcel in that week’s ad. He put a for-sale sign on the parcel and a neighbor quickly snapped it up, going under contract for it below full price.

The scammer said he was in a cancer isolation ward and didn’t have an ID with him. He needed to close quickly so he could pay his medical expenses.

The folks at First Integrity Title, which received the contract for processing, got suspicious because of no ID and sent a FedEx letter to the real owner of the property at his home in Maryland. The owner immediately called our broker associate, incensed that his property was being sold without his knowledge or involvement.

If the title company had not taken that action, it is possible that the transaction might have gone to closing based on forged IDs from the scammer, and the proceeds of the sale would have been wired according to the scammer’s directions.

The sale would ultimately have been voided, but the buyer would have lost his money. The seller would not have suffered loss.

In its October alert, CAR provided some guidance on how to recognize a vacant land scam in the making:

“In these cases, the scammer tries to list vacant land with no mortgage. He wants to sell it at below market prices for a quick sale. The scammer makes it clear there can be no in person communications, and that all communications are to be done by text or email. The scammer tells the real estate agent one of several stories about why he is out of town. He insists on a remote, no-contact closing, typically using a “local” notary of his choosing. He will not accept a local notary selected by the title company.

“The scammer has presented fraudulent driver’s licenses and fraudulent passports as identification. He uses spoofed phone numbers and untraceable email addresses.”

No such scam should be successful so long as the title company does what First Integrity Title did, which was to contact the registered owner of the land to verify the transaction.

In listing any property for sale, it’s a good practice for the listing agent to have the title company run an “ownership and encumbrance” report, which identifies the owner.

Then, using an app called Forewarn, which is only available to licensed real estate agents, we can find the phone number(s) of the registered owner and call them to verify that they are indeed who is talking to us.

BTW, once the seller knew we were not scamming him and had foiled the scam attempt, he said he might list his land with us!

Golden Real Estate’s Broker Associates

Licensed in 2000

Chuck Brown

303-885-7855

Joined us in 2014 Licensed in 2000

be misled by our name. Our agents have listed homes throughout the Denver Metro area and helped clients buy homes and other real estate all over Colorado!

When I ran for political office in 1981, I did exactly the same thing. Before announcing my candidacy I spent several months investigating every aspect of municipal government, speaking to civil servants in each agency and learning everything I could about policing, criminal justice and corrections as well as welfare, housing and economic development. When I announced my campaign, I released a 16-page tabloid spelling out my program for “saving” my city. I referred to it as “the power of the well-printed word.” It helped that I owned a typesetting business at the time, so I knew how to make what I printed look professional.

That effort wasn’t as successful, however, because I was running against seasoned politicians with political clubhouses behind them, not competing with fellow professionals, most of whom had a lot more experience than me but couldn’t demonstrate that experience or knowledge as well as a seasoned journalist like myself.

My training in journalism came from writing and editing my prep school and college newspapers but most especially from winning a summer internship in 1968 at The Washington Post I really love the practice of real estate and the reputation I have built with my readers. I love getting emails and phone calls asking my advice or reacting to something I have written. And when you call me about selling or buying a home, I love to know that the call was based on the trust and reputation I have built over two decades (or less) from my writings. Often, when I go on a listing appointment, I find that the seller has a folder containing clippings of my columns. I love to tell the story of one listing presen-

My first year in this business, I attended a retreat hosted by one of the preeminent real estate coaches. Following that event, I hired that coach’s firm briefly, but the focus was on memorizing scripts and “time blocking” several hours per days for cold-calling. I couldn’t do it.

It just wasn’t my style. I have never memorized a script and never made a cold call — in fact, never prospected at all. This column is what made that approach possible. The hours I could spend prospecting are so much better spent writing and publishing this column.

At first I wrote monthly, then biweekly, and within a couple years I was able to write this column every week. At first I bought a page in a little Golden newspaper because I couldn’t afford the Golden Transcript. When the Denver Post introduced the regionalized “YourHub” section, I jumped on it, limited to the Jefferson County editions.

Then came the Golden Transcript and three other Jeffco papers. When over 20 metro area weeklies were combined under the non-profit ownership of Colorado Community Media, I expanded to include my ad in all of them. That was after I had already expanded to be in all the local editions of YourHub.

A couple months ago, I signed a contract with the Denver Gazette, a digitalonly newspaper with a large readership. And, of course, I am also online, with over 1,300 email subscribers to our blog at http://RealEstateToday.substack.com For me as a journalist, there is no greater pleasure and satisfaction than what I get from having my writings broadcast so thoroughly around this metro area that I call home. Thank you for letting me take this week off from writing about another real estate topic to share my story with you.

It’s not often that you can buy a duplex where one side is empty and the other side is rented and contributing $1,500 per month to your mortgage costs! That’s the situation with this well-built and well-maintained brick duplex at 12613 W. 8th Ave. in that quiet neighborhood next to Welchester Tree Grant Park called Foothills View Estate. The two sides of this duplex are mirror images of each other and identical in terms of updating, including newer bath fixtures, doublepane windows, and new garage doors. (The two 1-car garages are accessed from an alley.) The vacant half is the one with a 12’x30’ wood deck, from which you can see the foothills to the west. Welchester Tree Grant Park is just a block away, with nature trails, including to the adjoining Welchester Elementary School. A narrated video tour of both sides of this duplex can be viewed at www.GoldenDuplex.online, along with interior photos of the vacant unit. The rented unit is not available to see until you’re under contract, but it is identical in condition to the vacant unit, as you’ll see on the video tour. Open Saturday, Nov. 16th, 11am to 1pm

Voters favor incumbent Democrat

Tammy Story for House District 25 seat

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Results show voters favor incumbent Democrat Tammy Story for the Colorado House District 25 seat over Republican opponent George Mumma.

As of press time, Mumma had not conceded.

Story did not return requests for comment.

She previously said she’s worked hard to protect the interests of District 25 residents and will continue to do so. e district covers Evergreen and Conifer.

“I pass critical legislation to protect our re ghters, fund our public schools and protect our natural resources,” she said.

“For me, it’s about the people of Colorado; I want to leave a better life for our children and grandchildren. I will continue to work to improve our Colorado way of life.

“ is means prioritizing improvements in the quality of our air, land, and water. It also means strengthening our critical services, including mental health care, healthcare access, and senior services while tackling a housing crisis that demands immediate and decisive action,” she continued.

Story said she’ll also focus on improving teachers’ pay, and with development of a statewide wild re mitigation program to protect lives and personal property.

She and her husband moved to the Colorado foothills in 1987. A longtime Jeffco Public Schools volunteer, she was the mountain area lead in the Je co Public Schools 2015 recall campaign.

Story, who took o ce in the House 2023, previously represented the 16th district in Je erson County in the Colorado Senate.

Mumma, a former Morrison police chief, is a now-retired Arapahoe County native who worked as both a paramedic and police o cer. Mumma is married to a former Je co Public Schools principal and has three sons.

He campaigned on a promise of less government, saying he would repeal unnecessary and overburdensome Colorado laws.

Lieder wins Colorado House District 28 race

BY LILLIAN FUGLEI SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Democrat incumbent Sheila Lieder has won the Colorado House District 28 race, securing her second term in o ce.

House District 28 is located in southeast Je erson County. Lieder was elected in 2022, making this her second term as the House District 28 representative.

Lieder, who is a Democrat, would like to spend her second term working towards safeguarding public education, making healthcare accessible and protecting workers’ rights. Before being elected to House District 28, Lieder spent years volunteering for the Colorado Alliance for Retirees and was a member of the TriCounty Workforce Development Board for over a decade.

In a press release, Lieder expressed her gratitude to all those who helped her campaign succeed.

“To the voters of HD28: I am humbled and honored to have been chosen for a second term,” Lieder said. “I will ght every day to continue to earn the trust you have placed in me.”

Zenzinger, Kerr elected Je co commissioners

Get

GATES

BY CORINNE WESTEMAN CWESTEMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Democrats Rachel Zenzinger and Andy Kerr have won the Je erson County commissioner races for District 1 and District 2, respectively, according to uno cial election results.

NOVEMBER 1517, 2024

FIELD HOUSE UNIVERSITY OF DENVER

Zenzinger and Kerr beat Republican Charlie Johnson, Libertarian Orion Schalhamer and Unity Party candidate Eric Bodenstab in the race.

Zenzinger, a former educator and Arvada City Councilor, will succeed Commissioner Tracy Kraft- arp in representing northern Je co on the three-member Je erson Board of County Commissioners.

Kerr, a Lakewood resident and the District 2 incumbent, also had received about 40,000 more votes than Republican challenger Natalie Menten, as of Nov. 6. He received 56% of the votes to Menten’s 44%.

Kerr was rst elected Je co commissioner in 2020, and currently represents central Je co on the board.

Zenzinger and Kerr are both former social studies teachers who later served in the Colorado Senate, overlapping for at least legislative term. e two were looking forward to working together again as Je co commissioners, along with Commissioner Lesley Dahlkemper, Sheri Reggie Marinelli and other elected ocials.

“Elections are hard; governing is even harder,” Kerr said.

While the two didn’t expect to see eyeto-eye on every issue, Zenzinger and Kerr were con dent in their collaborative approach and said they’d work through any disagreements to nd solutions that would bene t all Je co.

e two were also excited to see the Jef-

fco ballot measure 1A pass, emphasizing how critical those funds will for the county’s transportation infrastructure and public safety projects.

In addition to transportation and safety, Zenzinger planned to spend her four-year term focusing on balancing Je co’s budget and promoting a ordable housing. Meanwhile, Kerr planned to continue working on the county’s wild re mitigation e orts, climate action plan and affordable housing — much of which is critically intertwined for Je co residents, he said.

Kerr and Zenzinger, who ran their campaigns together, thanked their shared volunteers and supporters, as well as their respective families. Zenzinger emphasized how excited she was to be the newest member of the “most e cient, effective and amazing teams” among Colorado’s 64 counties.

“I’m excited to get to work,” she continued.

Tammy Story

Sheila Lieder

Je erson County Commissioner candidate Rachel Zenzinger, sitting at left, celebrates winning the election with her family members and campaign supporters Nov. 5 at a Je co Democrats watch party in Arvada. Zenzinger, an Arvada resident who most recently served in the Colorado Senate, will represent northern Je co on the Board of County Commissioners.

PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN

Buchanan Park Recreation Center debuts new pool features

Facility re-opens after closure for equipment installation and pool resurfacing

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Wilmot Elementary student

Caiden Knight is mute, but when sta at the Buchanan Park Recreation Center pool turned on its new water features Nov. 1, he shouted with clear joy.

“It’s a very big day,” said his grandfather, Pete Talamonti, adding the two had been watching the construction for weeks and anticipating the pool’s reopening. “ is is awesome. It’ll probably be an almost daily occurrence for us.”

Talamonti said Evergreen Park & Recreation District installed the new equipment and resurfaced the pool late this summer, work that required closing the popular amenity for more than two months. e work was long overdue, EPRD sta said. e old water features were past their lifespan, with some rusted, broken and increasingly hard-to- nd

parts, and the pool surface was wel- worn.   e new water features are designed to appeal to a broader age range of kids, with pieces designed for babies and toddlers, as well as older children. Within minutes of turning the features on, it seemed they’d hit their target audience. Children of all ages, from toddlers to tweens, gathered around them.

Evergreen toddler Hazel Farr was drawn to a play table with balls and buckets that move along water- lled trays. While Hazel didn’t o er an opinion, her caretaker and neighbor Joni Havens said that feature was their favorite.

“I like it because it’s mathematical and scienti c,” she said.

Down the road at Evergeen’s Wulf Recreation Center, EPRD also recently installed a new set of playground equipment, including swings with accessible seats, an accessible slide, an upgraded sand play area and interactive play panels. e playground isn’t yet open for play, awaiting installation of a rubber surface. EPRD sta said the work is weather-dependent, but they hope it will be nished in the next several weeks.

EPRD budgeted about $600,000 for the combined projects.

REVERSE MORTGAGES

Evergreen’s Caden Knight delighted in the new water features at Buchanan Recreation Center after EPRD sta turned them on for the first time Nov. 1.

PHOTOS BY JANE REUTER

Foothills team builds and installs public book exchange in Evergreen

Crew including several intellectually disabled adults worked together to construct artistic structure

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Pine Junction resident Suzi Burger said constructing a book exchange structure wasn’t necessarily easy, but it was a memorable experience.

“It was three steps forward, one step back,” Burger said. “But it was fun putting it together. We all laughed; we laughed a lot.”

Burger, who’s involved in a Denver program called Mosaic for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, worked alongside a team of other Mosaic clients to build the structure recently installed outside the Buchanan Park Recreation Center. e group was guided by Evergreen resident Rich Gruber, who’s worked with Mosaic on previous projects.

Evergreen Park & Recreation District sta helped the crew erect the artistic structure, de-

signed to imitate the dramatic curves of the recreation center’s entry on Oct. 31.

While it’s not o cially a Little Free Library, it operates on the same premise. Users may take a book or leave one to share with others.

e project ts neatly with Mosaic’s goal of encouraging greater independence and closer ties to the community for its clients through community connections.

As the nal nails were put in place, the Mosaic team talked excitedly about their role in the project.

“We learned a lot of stu and we worked as a team,” said Bailey resident Kayla Stacy.

“I hung in there, even though building isn’t my thing,” Evergreen’s Debra Sehibbelhut said. e same group also built a similar structure that was installed at Wulf Recreation Center in 2023. at project inspired the Buchanan book exchange.

“I said, ‘Why don’t we do one for this center?’ but I was thinking of something more simple,” Burger said. “ is one’s unique because it’s not square.”

While the project may have initially seemed daunting, Gruber — who has decades of construction experience — took the reins.

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His Mosaic coworkers worked with him on the structure in his Evergreen shop.

“ e idea to do a book barn that replicates the building itself was my idea,” he said. “Even with all my experience, I was scratching my head. ere were tons of errors and recalibrating. It was really a challenge, and they stuck with it.

“ ese young ladies virtually had no woodworking experience whatsoever in their lives. I think they got a lot out of it,” he continued. “ ere was such a high degree of tenacity, grace and a healthy dose of humor. We laughed a lot, and it got us through it. I’m super proud of them and us as a team.”

First snowfall in Idaho Springs means hibernation training at the library

BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Dressed in their warmest pajamas, several children gathered at the Idaho Springs library with their “stu es” to read and talk about the yearly necessity of hibernation for local wildlife.

Programs and Development Coordinator Holly Grant read from several children’s books focused on the need for hibernation for animals to stay warm during the winter months in the mountains.

“So, what does a bear sound like when it’s sleeping?” Grant asked her captivated audience of children. Several guttural growls emerged from the children’s mouths and laughter followed. e lesson was a timely one as snow covered the grass outside the Idaho Springs library for the rst time this season on Nov. 1.

When Grant asked what the best part of the winter weather was, four-year-old Tinsley Bracker from Evergreen quickly and accurately answered, “Hot chocolate!” “She’s learning but she’s playing. She gets to be herself here,” Tinsley’s dad Peter Bracker said.

Watching and attempting to control some chaos, Clear Creek High School senior and paid library intern Eleonore Bottomley just smiled.

“I grew up in this library, my mom used to work here so I’ve known a lot of the people who have been here for a really long time and I gured I wanted to spend some time here again,” Bottomley said.

Bottomley said she plans on attending college at Ft. Lewis in Durango after graduating high school two years early. en she hopes to study medicine overseas with the goal of becoming a surgeon.

In the time between now and then, Bottomley said she’s happy where she’s at.

“I really like the kids getting excited about books. I feel like with everything going on it’s really exciting to be able to see kids like books again and I feel like I’m giving back,” Bottomley said.

Despite the levity of the atmosphere in the room, serious scienti c questions from the children needed to be answered.

e most pressing of questions raised by the group was, “Do bears poop during hibernation?”

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Programs and Development Idaho Springs Library Coordinator Holly Grant read from several children’s books about hibernation.

Stumped, the expert librarians took to Google. e answer: No bears do not poop during hibernation.

You can picture the laughter…  “ is is just showing the library cares about the community but they are also saying, ‘Hey come to the library’ and use the resources we have for free,” Bracker said.

e Clear Creek Library District holds free Friday Storytimes at 10 a.m. at either the Idaho Springs Library at 219 14th Ave. or at the John Tomay Memorial Library at 605 Sixth St. in Georgetown.

“Our story times are wonderful because they allow children and families to learn through play,” Grant said.

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The team that helped installed Buchanan Park Rec Center’s new Little Free Library includes from left, EPRD’s Jarred Lilyhorn, Mosaic’s Suzi Burger, EPRD’s Shawn Gevedon, Mosaic’s Kayla Stacy, Mosaic’s Debra Schibblehut, Mosaic’s Kyla and team leader Rich Gruber. PHOTOS BY JANE REUTER

PHOTOS BY CHRIS KOEBERL

Chronic absenteeism rates di er sharply across metro-area school districts

BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Around 1 in 4 Colorado students miss critical time in the classroom, according to data from the Colorado Department of Education. Chronic absenteeism, de ned as missing more than 10% of school days or around 18 days per year, puts students at greater risk for academic failure, poverty and dropping out of high school, according to Attendance Works, an organization working to reduce chronic absenteeism.

A newly-mandated reporting system required by a 2022 law reveals the issue isn’t just about the number of absences. Rather, it’s about who is missing: students from low-income families, students of color, multilingual learners and those with special needs are the most a ected, facing barriers that go beyond the classroom and into systemic issues like poverty, housing instability and lack of transportation.

At 27.7%, the statewide chronic absenteeism has been dropping since it peaked at 35.5% during the 2021-2022 school year. Yet, rates vary widely across districts and demographics show how some districts struggle with absences far more than others.

“In our statewide data, we see race and ethnicity gaps, but we also see gaps in multilingual learners, students with disabilities and homeless students who qualify for homeless services,” said Johann Liljengren, director of the dropout prevention

Affordable Housing Workshop

and student re-engagement o ce in the Colorado Department of Education.

Acknowledging a dire need to address the issue, Colorado’s education leaders joined with 13 other states in a commitment to cut chronic absenteeism by 50% over ve years. Among metro-area districts, Denver, Douglas, Englewood and Je erson County have joined the state’s challenge.

Data reveals disparities across districts and demographics

While all groups of students experience some level of chronic absenteeism, those districts whose minority and low-income students make up a larger portion of the total population have rates far higher than the state average.

In Adams 14, where the absenteeism rate is close to 50%, nearly nine out of 10 students qualify for free or reduced lunch, meaning their family’s income falls below the federal poverty threshold.

Similar trends hold true for Adams 12 and Denver Public Schools, whose absenteeism rates also far exceed the state average. In Adams 12, 47% of their students experience economic hardship. In Denver, it’s 65%.

At around 25%, Cherry Creek, Je co and Elizabeth school districts have lower absenteeism rates than the state average. ey also have fewer percentages of nonwhite and low-income students than the state as a whole.

Douglas County has the lowest chronic absenteeism rate, but the district also has the lowest percentage of minority and lowincome students at 32% and 18%, respectively.

Understanding the causes e reasons behind chronic absenteeism are complex and often deeply rooted in students’ broader social and economic conditions. Carl Felton, a policy analyst with EdTrust, emphasized that poverty remains one of the strongest predictors of chronic absenteeism, with low-income students two to three times more likely to miss school consistently.

“ ese are high-need populations,” Felton explained, adding that for many of these students, absenteeism re ects obstacles like unstable housing, limited access to transportation and lack of healthcare.

e COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges. For many students, school closures meant the loss of a stable environment, access to meals and vital social interaction. As schools reopened, disengagement became a barrier for students accustomed to an extended absence from formal learning.

Felton noted that this break in routine and support made it di cult for students to readjust to school life.

Liljengren agreed.

“For some students, school was a place where they felt supported and cared for.

After a year or more away, they’ve struggled to return to that structure,” he said.

Finding solutions

When it comes to nding a solution, Liljengren and Felton agree that understanding the unique challenges and barriers these speci c student populations face is crucial to developing targeted strategies to improve attendance.

While there is no one-size- ts-all answer, Felton emphasized it’s crucial to start by engaging families.

“All these folks have di erent stories and varying needs, which is why we promote family engagement as one of the top priorities and strategies to address chronic absenteeism,” Felton said. “We can make a lot of assumptions and throw money at programs shown to be e ective through evidence-based data, but we may end up spending money on a program when what we really need is a school bus or to hire a person to conduct home visits.”

He also said that research has shown punitive measures, like truancy court or anything that puts more of a burden on families, break trust with school leaders and make families and students less likely to engage and work on solving the problem. By shifting away from punitive discipline measures and towards restorative approaches, Felton explained schools can build stronger relationships with students

SEE ABSENT, P9

Photo by McLeod9 Creative

ABSENT

and families, address underlying issues and keep students engaged in the learning process.

Liljengren said the state is focused on providing resources to districts, families and community partners through its “Every School Day Matters” attendance campaign.

e goal is for schools and communities to work together in a holistic, family-centered way to address the complex, multifaceted factors contributing to chronic absenteeism, especially for the most vulnerable student populations.

District leaders also recognize their role in ensuring kids want to attend school.

“When kids are excited about what they’re learning, they go to school, so part of it is connecting and saying, ‘how do we make the educational experience really engaging, fun, exciting and relevant to them,’” said Kim LeBlanc-Esparza, deputy superintendent of Je co Public Schools.

She said it’s also about personalizing the school experience for each student.

“If kids know we miss them, they’re less likely to opt out. Building those personal relationships with kids and having adults who genuinely care about them makes a signi cant di erence,” LeBlanc-Esparza said.

e data shows Je co’s strategies are working. e district went from a chronic absenteeism rate of 37.8% in 2021-2022 to 25.3% in 2023-2024.

Felton acknowledged Colorado’s progress and noted that no amount of improvement is insigni cant.

“Even a 1% decrease or reduction in chronic absenteeism adds up to 100 or more students,” he said.

Colorado is helping lead in the clean energy space, especially as the state ranks seventh nationally in the share of clean power percentages. It takes investment and community commitment, especially in our rural parts of Colorado, to help us reach our goals. As part of USDA Rural Development, we are deeply committed to supporting our rural partners and ensuring that communities across Colorado have access to the resources they need to thrive.

Five Colorado electrical cooperatives across the state plan to get there with the support of federal grants to make the transition to a clean energy economy with Tri-State’s $2.5 billion award recent-

AVOICES

Clean energy support brightens future of state

GUEST COLUMN

ly announced on Oct. 25. e ve statewide Colorado coops include CORE Electric Cooperative, Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association, TriState Generation and Transmission Association, United Power and Yampa Valley Electric Association.

ese historic investments in renewable energy are a testament to the commitment to our communities. By fostering clean energy solutions through the New ERA program, we are not only creating sustainable eco-

nomic opportunities but also ensuring that our rural areas remain resilient and forward looking. Together with our local partners, we are building a stronger, greener future for generations to come.

Wind and solar providing over onethird of Colorado’s electricity is helping us make signi cant strides in the clean energy sector. e state’s clean energy capacity, currently at approximately 7,000 MW, is set to grow signi cantly by 2030. Current capacity is enough to power 2.5 million homes.

Clean energy in Colorado has grown by way of nearly $14 billion of capital investment with utility-scale solar, storage and wind projects and a robust manufacturing sector. Colorado’s 12 operat-

Worry is like the wind

ing clean energy manufacturing facilities have created jobs throughout the state, helping increase the number of Coloradans working in the utility-scale sector to more than 15,750. ese utility-scale clean energy jobs span from development and operations to manufacturing and construction roles.

Let’s keep supporting this important work to build up local economies and strengthen our state as we create smart, sustainable cities. Investing in Colorado with these resources is a solid step forward as we keep leading the way. is guest column was written by Crestina M. Martinez, the Denver-based Colorado state director for U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development.

few years ago, my family took a trip to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where we spent ve days in a house that looked out on a series of islands in Lake Huron. We rented a boat, a Boston Whaler, and I was “Captain” for the excursions on the water. “Captain Jim”…it has a good ring, doesn’t it?

Being from Colorado I have not spent much time around large bodies of water. At the house and on the boat, I was struck by the power of calm water. ere is a crystal beauty in the water re ecting its surroundings, and the silence in that calm is a wise and welcome friend. ose moments of beauty are lled with a stunning kind of power that can only be found in stillness.

One day while we were out on the water there was a short time, maybe ten minutes, when wind whipped across the lake. As that wind blew and the boat rocked, I began to comprehend how an unseen force like the wind can whip the lake into a frenzy. I could imagine the violent storms that have crossed the Great Lakes and

Success often hinges on our ability to identify and overcome obstacles and objections in life and business. e line between the two can sometimes be blurred for many of us. However, understanding the difference is essential to overcoming barriers in selling and achieving goals. When discussing objections, we’re usually focused on external resistance: reasons someone might say “no” to a product, service, or idea. Obstacles, on the other hand, are often deeper-rooted barriers that stand in the way of progress. ough they may appear di erently, addressing them usually demands similar skills, like empathy, creativity, and a relentless drive to nd solutions. Take sales, for example. Salespeople regularly encounter both objections and obstacles. An objection might sound like, “ e price is too high,” “We’re happy with our current vendor,” or “ e timing isn’t right.” ese are the immediate, surface-

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT

sunk many ships. e juxtaposition of the calm and wind-swept water fascinates me. Both waters hold great power, both are beautiful, both left me in awe. e power and beauty of the calm water gave me time to re ect and the space to renew myself. e power and the beauty of the wind-swept water was far di erent, it left me feeling small and insigni cant, almost hopeless in the face of its possible force. e agent that turned the lake from a spot of beauty and re ection to a power lled force of potential destruction had nothing to do with the water itself. e wind created the chaos, the wind changed the water.

accomplish this. While I do not know exactly how to tell you to nd the calm water, I do know that:

I think we are very much like the water of Lake Huron and worry is like the wind. When we are calm, when we are

still there is great strength in that space and it creates beauty and the opportunity for re ection and healing. When we allow outside forces like worrying about the future to impact our calm waters we are whipped into a frenzy, a force no doubt, but a force that can be destructive and certainly chaotic.

I found the moments on or near the still lake to be very comforting and I worked to experience that power- lled still water each day we were there. To nd that stillness I needed to wake up early and intentionally go outside to spend time on the lake’s edge. When I created the time to seek the still water, the rewards were spectacular.

We are di erent than the waters of Lake Huron in that we can create shelter against those outside forces in ways the lake cannot. Water will always be at the mercy of wind. But we do not need to be moved by circumstances we cannot control. is week, it is my sincere hope that you will seek to nd the strength of clam waters in your heart and mind. I wish I had the golden ticket to share how you

• You must intentionally seek it.

• You must be fully present to experience it.

• You must take the time to appreciate the beauty and power of it.

I hope that you will nd inspiration in my words and share those words of encouragement with those who need it. I would love to hear from you as you nd helpful morsels in these columns and as you nd ways to encourage those around you. I can be contacted at jim.roome@ gmail.com.

Jim Roome lives in Arvada with his wife Beth. He spent 34 years in public education. Lessons learned from the one two punch of being diagnosed with MS shortly before his best friend was diagnosed with terminal cancer led him into a new pursuit as a freelance writer and speaker. He uses his life experiences and love of stories to inspire, educate and encourage local, national and international audiences.

Overcoming life’s obstacles and objections

WINNING WORDS

level reasons a prospect might hesitate. ey’re often rooted in issues like cost concerns, lack of perceived urgency, or trust de cits. Objections can feel like brick walls, but they tell a salesperson where to provide more value, build trust, or reframe the conversation.

Michael Norton

Obstacles, in contrast, are often the unseen structural challenges that prevent a decision altogether. Budget limitations, a team’s inability to reach consensus, or organizational overload can all be obstacles. A buying committee that struggles to agree on priorities, a customer overloaded with competing projects, or the realities of an uncertain economic climate are all obstacles that can stall or derail even the most compelling o er.

At their core, objections and obstacles share common roots: no want, no time, no money, no need, and no trust. If prospects don’t honestly want the product or service, they’ll inevitably voice objections. If time or budget is scarce, the organization may not see a way to address the need. And overcoming objections becomes nearly impossible when trust is missing, whether in the product, the salesperson, or the company.

Consider a family discussion over a major decision, like where to go on vacation, buying a new car, or even contemplating a move. Just as in sales, these conversations often come back to the same core reasons for resistance: no want, no time, no budget, no need, and no trust. A lack of alignment or perceived need can create an obstacle, while objections around cost or timing can hold things up. It’s the same in our careers or personal lives. e obstacles we face can often be attributed to not truly wanting something enough,

lacking resources, or feeling uncertain. When we encounter obstacles in our lives, whether physical, mental, or spiritual, the same approach applies. We must ask ourselves: “What’s standing in my way?” And, more importantly, “Why am I allowing it to?” Overcoming these internal obstacles often requires the same determination that a salesperson uses to address objections. It involves identifying the root of resistance, determining what help we need, and committing to tackle these roadblocks with discipline and purpose.

Sometimes, the obstacles we face are self-imposed, born from a fear of failure, or unwilling to let go of comfort. Other times, they’re rooted in external circumstances beyond our control. In either case, overcoming them requires a willingness to act and an openness to seeking help.

Jim Roome

HAPPENINGS

We’d like to know about events or activities of interest to the community. Visit www.canyoncourier.com/ calendar/ and post your event online for free. Email jreuter@coloradocommunitymedia.com to get items in the newspaper. Items will appear in print on a space-available basis.

UPCOMING

Evergreen Christian Outreach 5K Turkey Trot: 8 a.m. Nov. 28, 27888 Meadow Drive. Evergreen. evergreenchristianoutreach.org.

Christian Science Church anksgiving service: 10 a.m. Nov. 28, 28244 Harebell Lane, Evergreen.Hymns and readings from the Bible and the Christian Science textbook. Child care available.

Frostival: 2-6 p.m. Dec. 1, Buchanan Park ball elds, 32003 Ellingwood Trail, Evergreen. Local merchants, petting zoo, face painting, photos with Santa, tree lighting ceremony. evergreenrecreation.com

Evergreen Chamber Orchestra Overture to Winter recital: 3 p.m. Dec. 1, St. Laurence Episcopal Church, 26812 Barkley Rd, Conifer. Tickets atevergreenchamberorch.org

EPRD Senior Excursion Shop til You Drop @ Colorado Mills: 11:15 a.m. Dec. 2.Register by Nov. 18. Departs from Buchanan Park Recreation Center and Rocky Mountain Village Estates. Register at evergreenrecreation.com.

Dec. 14 at the Woodcellar & Dec. 21 at Wild Game. Breakfast, meeting and photos with Santa. Tickets on sale Nov. 1 at evergreenchamber.org.

EPRD senior excursion Breckenridge snowcat ride: 10 a.m. Dec. 6. Departing from Buchanan Park Recreation Center and Rocky Mountain Village Estates. Register at evergreenrecreation.com

Hiwan Museum holiday open house: 4-6:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Entertainment, light refreshments, guided house tours . 28473 Meadow Drive, Evergreen. Sponsored by the Evergreen Mountain Area Historical Society.

Christmas in Conifer: 10:30 to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 7, Sutton Road, Aspen Park. Live music, Christmas parade. eme is “A Season of Stories” for the new Conifer Library. Information at goconifer.com

Pathways to Coexistence: Safeguarding Wildlife in an Era of Expanding Roads: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 5, Evergreen Fire/Rescue, 1802 Bergen Pkwy, Evergreen. Featuring speakers Ben Goldfarb and Julia Kintsch. Register at https://pathways-to-coexistence.cheddarup.com.

EPRD senior excursion Christkindl Market:4 p.m. Dec 13. Departing from Buchanan Park Recreation Center and Rocky Mountain Village Estates. Register by Nov. 29. evergreenrecreation.com.

EPRD senior excursion Hudson Gardens: 4:30 p.m. Dec. 14. Departing from Buchanan Park Recreation Center and Rocky Mountain Village Estates. Register by Nov. 29. evergreenrecreation.com.

Pet Pictures with Santa: Noon-2 p.m. Dec. 14 at Aspen Park Vet Hospital, 25871 Duran Ave, Conifer, & 12-3 p.m. Dec. 15, Saturday, 12-2pm at e ResqRanch, 25871 Duran Ave, Conifer. RSVP 303-838-3771 or Help@ AspenParkVet.com

32nd annual Holiday Walk: 5-9 p.m. Dec. 6, downtown Evergreen. Traditional holiday tree lighting at Evergreen Lake House with Santa and Mrs. Claus, photos with Santa, live performances by local music & dance groups downtown. Fire pits, s’mores, shopping, seasonal goodies. downtownevergreen.com

Evergreen Chamber’s Santa Breakfast: 9:30-11 a.m. Nov. 30 at Hiwan Golf Club, Dec. 7 at Lariat Lodge,

EPRD senior excursion Denver Zoo or Botanic Gardens: 4:30 p.m. Dec. 21. Departing from Buchanan Park Recreation Center and Rocky Mountain Village Estates. Register by Nov. 29. evergreenrecreation.com.

Ice Fest: Dec. 31, Evergreen Lake, 29612 Upper Bear Creek Road, Evergreen. Ice skating, skate rentals, hockey, broomball, ice carving demonstration, mobile recreation trailer games, repits, DJ. evergreenrecreation.com.

Evergreen Ball: 8 p.m. to midnight, Dec. 31, Evergreen Lake House, 29612 Upper Bear Creek Road, Evergreen. Featuring the Michael C Experienceband, catered hors d’oeuvres, desserts, photobooth, cash bar. Limited tickets at evergreenrecreation.com.

2025 Evergreen Pond Hockey Championship: 7 a.m. playtime, Jan. 25 and 26, Evergreen Lake, 29612 Upper Bear Creek Rd. evergreenrecreation.com   SEE HAPPENINGS, P12

OBITUARIES

Evalyn Cross Wood, known to her friends to as Lyn, died in her home in Highlands Ranch, on November 2, 2024 at the age of 96. She was born in Hardwick, VT and graduated from Hardwick Academy. She attended the University of Vermont and the University of Connecticut, graduating with a degree in nursing. She was employed as Head Nurse (pediatrics) in

Lyn was married for 43 years to Russell L Wood. Lyn and Russ lived in Evergreen for many years. She was deeply involved with volunteer work, including at Christ the King Catholic Church

in Evergreen, CO and completed a 4-year Biblical Studies Program at St. John Vianney Seminary. Following Russ’s passing, Lyn became a dedicated grief counseling volunteer at Mount Evans Hospice. Lyn was preceded in death by her Father, Harry Cross, her mother, Sarah Cross, her husband, Russell Wood, and by her siblings, Edna, Burt, Lillian, Idabell, and Harold. She is survived by her loving children, Susan Wood of Tuscon, AZ, Daniel Wood of Portland, OR (Annie), Cynthia Newton of Ione, WA (Jim), and Ann Schmitt, of Manhattan, KS (Dave), and by her granddaughters, Amanda, Stephanie, and Sarah.

Similarly, some obstacles may not be real limitations but a test of our commitment. Are we truly serious about our goals? Do we need to negotiate with ourselves to nd the discipline and courage to overcome what holds us back? Whether overcoming objections or obstacles, the goal remains to remove what stands in the way of success, growth, and ful llment. By cultivating resilience,

seeking support, and staying dedicated to our purpose, we clear the path toward becoming the best versions of ourselves. What are the biggest obstacles holding you back? I would love to hear your story at gotonorton@gmail.com, and when we can identify what they are and develop a solid plan to overcome them, it really will be a better than good life.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator of individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries. exwaexperiappreciate in enI nd as around jim.roome@ wife educatwo shortly with pursuit uses to na-

WOOD

Evalyn Ella “Lyn” (Cross) Wood December 30, 1927 - November 2, 2024

HAPPENINGS

ONGOING

Evergreen Sustainability Alliance is participating in Colorado Gives Day from now through December 10th. Donate today at www.coloradogives.org/organization/ evergreensustainabilityalliance.

Soldier Bags Project 2024: Tallgrass Spa accepting travel-sized toiletries and other donations at e Wild Game, 1204 Bergen Pkwy, Evergreen, for annual veterans backpack project. Information at tallgrassspa. com

Conifer Chamber of Commerce member meeting: 7:30 a.m. on second ursdays, Our Lady of the Pines Catholic Church, 9444 Eagle Cli Road, Conifer. Free for members, $10 for non-members.

Evergreen Nature Center Weekly Preschool Adventures Program: 9 a.m. every ursday, 27640 Hwy 74, Evergreen. Free & no registration required. Programs designed for children ages 2-5 years old. All children must have an adult in attendance. Dress to explore the outdoors. evergreenaudubon.org

Evergreen Nature Center Monthly Family Program: 11 a.m. every last Saturday, 27640 Hwy 74, Evergreen. December’s program is Hibernation Station. evergreenaudubon.org

e American Legion Evergreen Post 2001: Meets every fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m., Evergreen Church of the Trans guration, 27640 Highway 74, Evergreen. Serving all military veterans in the foothills communities. Email evergreenpost2001@gmail.com

Evergreen Camera Club: Meets every second Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Evergreen Fire/Rescue auditorium, 1802 Bergen Parkway, Evergreen. Club is for people who share a passion for all photography, from beginners to professionals. Attend in person or via ZOOM.

Evergreen Area Republican Club: e Evergreen Area Republican Club meets at 6 p.m. the rst Wednesday of the month at the Evergreen Fire/Rescue Administration Building, 1802 Bergen Parkway. Information at evergreenarearepublicanclub.org

Mountain Area Democrats: Mountain Area Democrats meet at 9 a.m. the fourth Saturday of the month January through April at the United Methodist Church of Evergreen, 3757 Ponderosa Drive, Evergreen. For more information, e-mail MountainAreaDems@gmail.com.

Evergreen Sustainability Alliance is looking for post-holiday volunteers:To help with our holiday tree and block styrofoam recycling event Jan. 4 and Jan 11. Collecting trees and block styrofoam to keep them out of the land ll and support ESA. Contact Wendy at 720-536-0069 or email info@sustainevergreen.org.

Evergreen Sustainability Alliance’s “Let’s Embrace Zero Food Waste” program needs volunteers: Program in local schools and food banks. Volunteers needed for a couple hours. Call 720-536-0069 or email info@sustainevergreen.org for more information.

Evergreen Nature Center: Evergreen Nature Center is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays next to Church of the Trans guration. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.EvergreenAudubon.org.

e Bear Creek Cemetery Association board of directors volunteers needed: Members needed to help with operations of the local cemetery on Highway 74, Evergreen. Contact board president, evergreenbearcreekcemetery@gmail.com

Blue Spruce Habitat volunteers needed: Blue Spruce Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers. A variety of opportunities and exible schedules are available on new construction sites as well as for exterior minor home repairs. No previous construction experience needed. Contact volunteer@bluesprucehabitat.org for information.

EChO needs volunteers: e Evergreen Christian Outreach ReSale Store and food pantry need volunteers. Proceeds from the EChO ReSale Store support the food pantry and programs and services provided by EChO. Many volunteer options available. For more information, call Mary at 720673-4369 or email mary@evergreenchristianoutreach.org.

LGBTQ+ teen book club: Resilience1220 is o ering an LGBTQ+ teen book club that meets from 4-6 p.m. the fourth Monday at the Resilience1220 o ce next to the Buchanan Park Recreation Center. For more information and to register, visit R1220.org.

ESA EverGREEN Re ll Station: EverGREEN Re ll Station (re ll your laundry detergent, lotions, soaps and more. We have many sustainable products available). e Re ll Station is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and the second Saturday of each month from 1-4 p.m. in the Habitat Restore, 1232 Bergen Parkway.

Support After Suicide Loss: A safe place to share and learn after losing a loved one

to suicide. is group meets every fourth Wednesday of the month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. via Zoom or in person at the Resilience1220 o ce. For ages 14 and up. Suggested donation for this group is $15. Register at resilience1220.org/groups.

Sensitive Collection: Resilience1220 strives to inform and support highly sensitive people to live healthy and empowered lives. It meets the third Wednesday of each month from 6-7 p.m. via Zoom. Register at resilience1220.org/groups.

Caregiver support group: Mount Evans Home Health Care & Hospice o ers a monthly group to provide emotional support services for caregivers helping ill, disabled or elderly loved ones. An in-person support group meets Wednesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m. at 3081 Bergen Peak Road, Evergreen. For more information, visit mtevans.org/services/emotional-support/.

Parkinson’s disease support group: A Parkinson’s disease support group meets the rst Friday of the month from 1-3 p.m. at Evergreen Christian Church, 27772 Iris Drive, Evergreen. For more information, email esears@parkinsonrockies.org.

Mountain Foothills Rotary meetings: Mountain Foothills Rotary meets at 6 p.m. Wednesdays both in person at Mount Vernon Canyon Club, 24933 Club House Circle, Genesee, and via Zoom. Information at 346-248-7799.

Beyond the Rainbow: Resilience1220 offers Beyond the Rainbow, which is two support groups that meet the second Tuesday of the month. One is a safe group for those 12-20 and the other is a group for parents and caregivers wanting support for raising an LGBTQ+ child. For group location and to RSVP, email heather@resilience1220.org.

When Leyuan Li, assistant professor at the University of Colorado Denver College of Architecture and Planning, rst came to Denver in 2023, he was surprised to discover the city had no Chinatown. He decided to do some research on the story of Chinatown, which led to the creation of a research course focused on this seldom-told part of the city’s history.

“ e course was called ‘Suppressed Interior’, and over the course of four months, we looked into the special problem of Denver’s Chinatown and the reason it declined and its residents were displaced,” Li said. “Not only did we look at its past, but as designers and architects, we envisioned a future for Chinatown in Denver.”

Finding Denver’s Chinatown COMING ATTRACTIONS

e work Li and his students did is a crucial part of the History Colorado Center’s, 1200 Broadway in Denver, new exhibition, “Where is Denver’s Chinatown? Stories Remembered, Reclaimed and Reimagined.”  e exhibit was created in collaboration with Colorado Asian Paci c United (CAPU) and is on display through Aug. 9, 2025.

“ is is an exhibit we’ve wanted to do for a long time and really came about because of Li’s class,” said Dr. Josie Chang-Order, school programs manager and co-developer of the exhibition. “Working with the students and other members of the community who could share what the area was like, we were able to put together this exhibit.”

According to information provided by History Colorado, Denver’s Chinatown was once located in the Lower Downtown (LoDo) area and was a ourishing home

for its residents. It survived the Anti-Chinese Riot of 1880, but eventually dispersed as a result of widespread antiChinese racism and the passage of national laws that restricted immigration and opportunities for Chinese nationals.

Where is Denver’s Chinatown? uses historic personal family photographs and objects, artifacts from the museum’s collection, a portrayal of a typical home, and artistic reimaginings of the neighborhood done by Li’s students.

“I was in charge of the historic model, which required a lot of research. e area wasn’t well-documented because it was an immigrant neighborhood where people of color lived,” said Molly Rose Merkert, a student in the Dana Crawford Preservation Program. “We were able to use the Sanborn Fire Insurance Map and use that to give us an idea about what the topography looked like and recreated the space as best we could.”

e exhibit isn’t solely focused on the past—it also looks ahead at what reconstituting Denver’s Chinatown would mean for the city and its residents. Students were encouraged to be creative and forwardthinking on this part of the project.

“For me, there’s not only physical construction to consider, but conceptual,” Li said. “It has to be a site of convergence, of cultural cohesion, where people can form a particular cultural identity. at’s an im-

portant part of guiding people towards new ways to imagine Chinatown.” e aim of the exhibit is that people learn more about an underrepresented piece of Denver’s history, according to Chang-Order, but also that they come away thinking about the future.

And for people like Merkert, it’s an opportunity to nd a sense of home.

“I never felt like I belonged in Denver, but knowing it had one of the largest Chinatowns in the west helped me feel like I belong here,” she said. “We have been here and have been here for a while.”

For more information, visit https://www. historycolorado.org/exhibit/denvers-chinatown.

Explore Narnia with Ballet Ariel this holiday season

Ballet Ariel is kicking o the holiday season with the return of “ e Lion, e Witch and the Wardrobe” ballet, based on C.S. Lewis’ beloved children’s story. e ballet comes to the Lakewood Cultural Center, 480 S. Allison Parkway, from Friday, Nov. 22 through Sunday, the 24th. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. It will also take the stage at the Parsons eatre at the Northglenn Recreation Center, 1 E. Memorial Parkway, on Saturday, Dec. 28 and Sunday, Dec. 29. Performances are at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and 7 p.m. on Saturday.

Information and tickets are available at http://balletariel.org/the-lion-the-witchand-the-wardrobe/.

The Playground Ensemble bridges the gap between the ‘Body/Mind’ e Playground Ensemble is exploring the body-mind connection through music in its latest performance. e “Body/ Mind” concert will be held at the MSU School of Music, Kalamath Building, 800 Kalamath St. in Denver, at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 17.

e Playground Ensemble is a group of professional musicians, composers, educators and fans dedicated to keeping chamber music as a dynamic art form. is concert focuses on exploring the vulnerabilities, limits and joys of the human experience.

Get tickets at www.playgroundensemble. org.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Billie Eilish at Ball Arena

When Billie Eilish rst arrived on the music scene in 2015, she blew so many listeners away with her unique approach to pop music and her sharply drawn lyrics. In the ensuing years she’s continued to level up and this year’s album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft” may well be her strongest release yet. She can still do pop bangers like “Lunch,” but “Birds of a Feather” is the real showstopper for me.

In support of the album, Eilish will be spending Tuesday, Nov. 19 and Wednesday, Nov. 20 at Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Circle in Denver. Both shows start at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster. com/billie-eilish-tickets/artist/2257710. Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

Clarke Reader

National trend impacting area fire agencies, blood supply, food pantries, senior services

BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

When Evergreen Fire/Rescue welcomed its rst six paid re ghters last month, it was hailed as progress for the district’s residents, with the anticipation of faster response times from sta ed re stations. But it was also a sharp turn away from a long-standing tradition: e all-volunteer model it had used for 76 years.

While the area’s aging population, climate change and life in a place ranked in the top 10 nationally for catastrophic wild re were factors in the hiring decision, the decline in volunteerism also played into it.

It’s a trend impacting organizations of all kinds. Volunteering in the United States is at an all-time low, according to IVolunteer International, even as the need for most of the services such agencies supply is increasing. e fallout is far from minor, ranging from such potentially critical issues as delays in re agency response times to a shortage in the national blood supply.

On a societal level, experts say it may be a symptom of, or a factor in, increasing social isolation and political division.

“Volunteers meet critical community needs, and volunteering has the power to heal our societies by creating empathy and equity,” said Jennifer Siranelo, CEO of Points of Light, an international nonpro t dedicated to volunteerism. “It’s imperative that we work together to reverse the downward trend in volunteering.”

While the pandemic exacerbated the issue, it was not the cause. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the volunteer rate in the United States has been steadily declining for more than a decade.

Charitable giving is also down in the U.S., a fact attributed to economic uncertainty, stock market volatility and an increase in smaller and single-parent families.

Volunteering has historically been led by college graduates, married people and parents. But today’s younger generations are strained not just for time but money, and are more likely to not only work several jobs but share housing to make ends meet, according to the Center for the Study of the Individual and Society. at leaves them with little discretionary time. e issue has hit the re service hard. e number of volunteer re ghters has declined for the last three decades, hitting a record low in 2020, according to the National Fire Protection Association. During that same time period, the U.S. population — and demands for emergency services —grew. Among smaller re districts, the average age of a volunteer re ghter is going up, with fewer younger people throwing their hats into the volunteer ring.

Not long ago, Evergreen Fire/Rescue Chief Mike Weege said EFR turned prospective volunteers away.

“We’d get roughly 30 applying and have (volunteer re ghter) academies of 25,” he said. “Eight to 10 years ago, we start-

Volunteers meet critical community needs, and volunteering has the power to heal our societies by creating empathy and equity.”

Jennifer Siranelo, CEO of Points of Light

ed getting far fewer people who could commit the time to do it. Our academies would only be six people, and we had to combine them with Genesee, Foothills and Indian Hills ( re districts).

“Today, both parents working is the norm, and people are working longer hours,” he continued. “I think people’s lives are far too busy for the amount of time and motivation it takes to volunteer for a dangerous activity.”

Nearby Elk Creek Fire is facing the same challenges, which Chief Jacob Ware attributes in part to the foothills’ shifting population.

“ e demographics have changed a lot here,” he said. “Historically, volunteer re departments were made up a lot of blue-collar, often self-employed people — people who had the ability to break away from their jobs in the middle of the day to answer a re call.”

With the escalating cost of housing in the mountains, fewer of those people can a ord to live in Conifer. And those that do are pressed for time.

“You have to hustle to live in the mountains,” Ware said. “Between work, family and everything else, the time you have to volunteer is dwindling.”

Vitalant, which has 10 Colorado blood donation centers and is the primary blood provider for over 95% of Colorado’s hospitals, is seeing far fewer donors than in the past. Vitalant declared an emergency blood shortage in 2024, and it’s not the rst time the nonpro t blood services provider has done so.

“Overall, the number of people donating with Vitalant has dropped about 20% since before the pandemic, while patients’ needs remain strong,” said Brooke Way, Vitalant’s communications manager. “If there’s a shortage and we don’t have the available blood, that’s when hospitals and doctors have to make those impossible choices of whether to postpone a surgery that’s been scheduled, so a trauma (victim) can get that unit. at’s what we try to avoid.”

It’s left local and national organizations scrambling for solutions, and pondering creative new ideas to revitalize volunteering.

“We’ve tried everything under the sun to recruit new volunteers; we just had another meeting about it,” said Kevin Andrezejewski, executive director of BGOLDN, which runs a food pantry and other community food programs. “ ere’s been a huge shift in the demographic here. e younger population doesn’t either have the time or interest in volunteering.”

COVER PHOTO: Volunteer firefighters from Evergreen and Elk Creek fire departments climb onto the roof of a house on fire earlier this year.

LEFT: Teri Crawford, visiting from Virginia, helps her daughter Kimberly Buxton of Golden while volunteering at the BGOLDN food pantry. PHOTO BY JANE REUTER

RIGHT: Centennial resident Joseph Lothringer recently donated his 70th gallon of blood at Vitalant’s Parker donation center. “It’s an act of gratitude,” he said. “Emotionally, it’s a very satisfying feeling.”

VOLUNTEERS

at’s particularly challenging because the need for BGOLDN’s programs is growing. Demand for its home delivery program, available to people who need supplies from the food pantry but don’t have transportation, has doubled in the last 18 months. But BGOLDN doesn’t have enough drivers to bring food to those homes or pick up food donations from area grocery stores.

“We have more volunteer shifts to ll,” Andrezejewski said. “We don’t want to decrease the number of families we support, and we could grow the program. But with the shortage of volunteers, we have to hold back on expanding it too much.”

A Little Help provides services to seniors throughout the metro area, northern Colorado and Grand Junction that can make the di erence between individuals moving to assisted living or staying in their homes. During the pandemic, the Denver-based nonpro t saw a surge in volunteers. But as life returned to normal, that help faded away.

“A lot of our open requests from seniors are going unful lled,” said Jake Dresden, A Little Help’s metro Denver director. “Rides to the doctor, the bank, the grocery store, tech support requests, companionship requests … we’re not at a healthy level of volunteers to meet those.

“We always feel the sweet spot for us is at least 2-to-1 volunteers to older adult members. And we are not at that number,” Dresden continued. “ e last six months, we’ve been running 2-to-1 members to volunteers. at’s not a recipe for success.”

Not only do seniors often physically need help with such chores and tasks, volunteer assistance can make a critical nancial di erence for them.

“ e big broad piece is helping them stay in their homes,” Dresden said. “A lot of our members are living on very xed incomes. e thought of paying a landscaping crew to rake leaves, or getting an Uber to go to the doctor, that’s money they don’t have budgeted.”

Because Colorado is a popular state for retirees, Dresden doesn’t see the demand for services easing.

A Little Help sends a weekly email to its volunteers and has made volunteering as exible as possible. Volunteers choose the task they want to do and when they’d like to do it. Still, the list of un lled requests hasn’t grown shorter.

“We’re trying all sorts of di erent methodologies to bring new volunteers on, but we’re having to start waiting lists for certain areas and services,” Dresden said.

Solutions

e problem is clear, but solutions are less so. Yet, people across the country are working to nd them, and with good reason.

Volunteering is good for us, on an individual and larger societal level. Research shows links between volunteering and improved physical health, cognitive function, elevated mood, increased social interactions, decreased loneliness and even increased mortality, according to the Stanford Center on Longevity. On a more global scale, volunteerism contributes to social cohesion, community well-being and the economy.  e Generosity Commission, made up of experts across the philanthropic sec-

tor, is dedicated to increasing civic participation. It’s spent the last three years studying the country’s decline in charitable giving and volunteering and mapping a plan to reverse it.

ose include getting public gures to talk about how they bene t from giving and volunteering, reaching out to younger generations and reinforcing the role of businesses in encouraging employee giving. IVolunteer International suggests o ering virtual volunteering options like tutoring, nonpro t tech support or online advocacy as a way to match volunteering opportunities with the shift to remote work and lifestyles.

Evergreen Fire/Rescue is redesigning its volunteer program, using a system of points and small-dollar rewards that allows volunteers exibility in how and when they respond.

“We need to meet people where they are, to allow people to do what they can do versus forcing them to t into our box,” Weege said. “If you want to just do wildland ( res), if you want to just do EMS, there’s a place for you here. So you don’t have to do all the training. We’ve brought in quite a few people by doing that.”

Denver-based Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, which builds trails and improves habitat statewide, said it’s changed its o erings to try to meet its volunteers’ abilities.

“We’re getting more one-o (volunteer stints) than people who’ll come out multiple times a year now,” said VOC’s marketing manager Kim Gagnon. “So we’re trying to broaden the type of work we offer folks. Some people can volunteer on a fourteener with no problem. And some people feel that reward from a threehour harvest in a garden in downtown Denver. ese are interesting trends, and

we’re just trying to problem-solve as we go.”

Vitalant has o ered donor giveaways like the chance to win $5,000 prepaid gift cards, and more recently a $5,000 Halloween jackpot. As the shift to remote work has decreased donations from business blood drives, Vitalant’s now encouraging schools to host blood drives. ose who volunteer regularly see the bene ts clearly.

Conifer resident Peyton omas, who launched the nonpro t Speakers for Africa to help Ugandan schoolchildren, said the work not only broadens his perspective about other cultures, but gives him a fresh outlook on his own life.

“When I start complaining about Wi-Fi speed or my food taking too long to get to me, I think, ‘I need to go back to Uganda and regroup,’ because they know what is real,” he said. “Life is a help-others program. I’m convinced getting outside of ourselves sand helping others is what we’re supposed to do.”

Joseph Lothringer recently donated his 70th gallon of blood at Vitalant’s Parker donation center. He’s enjoyed a lifetime of good health and said donating is a way to share some of that with those who haven’t been as lucky.

“It’s an act of gratitude,” said the 68-year-old Centennial resident. “I won the physiological lottery. I think of people that are ghting for their lives against cancer. To give them a shot of platelets, to use my health to help people that didn’t win the lottery, that’s the least I can do. Emotionally, it’s a very satisfying feeling.” It took Lothringer 40 years of regular donations to reach 70 gallons, and he’s not done yet.

“Absolutely, I’m going to keep doing it,” he said. “My goal now is 100 gallons.”

COURTESY OF EVERGREEN FIRE/RESCUE

COURTESY OF VITALANT

Lakewood couple creates buzz with beekeeping business

BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Jen and Bryan Zavada’s Lakewood backyard is unlike most. Instead of the usual grass and shrubs, it’s buzzing with bees, blooming lavender and an array of pollinator plants — a testament to the couple’s passion for beekeeping and the environment.

eir journey into the bee business went from a simple backyard hobby to a thriving, locally renowned honey business. And with each jar of honey and bar of lavender soap, they’re creating more than products; they’re fostering a culture of sustainability and local connection.

“We bought a house in Lakewood right as my wife and I were starting our careers with the Je co school district and a family. I didn’t want to mow my lawn every weekend in the summertime,” Bryan said.

“So we started pulling out our lawn and putting in pollinator and drought-tolerant plants,” he continued. “Over time, we pulled out more and more lawn and I gained a greater appreciation for pollinators along the way.”

Pollinator plants are types of plants that attract and support pollinators like bees, butter ies, hummingbirds and other insects by providing nectar and pollen. ey are often rich in color, especially shades of purple, yellow and red, and they frequently have shapes and scents that appeal to speci c pollinators.

Yet, it wasn’t until an expert came and spoke to Bryan’s elementary students about all types of bees and the bene ts they provide to the local food supply and environment that he became inspired to purchase a colony.

“I had always thought to myself I should be a beekeeper,” Bryan said. “And then this lady came in and taught my class about bees for about 45 minutes, and that was the impetus that put me over the edge.”

He explained that the thing about bees is that they either make more honey or make more bees. It wasn’t long before they had more than they knew what to do of both. ey began experimenting with recipes and giving honey away as holiday gifts.

en, a trip to the annual lavender festival in Palisade inspired Jen to begin growing lavender and to learn more about the therapeutic properties of local plants and how to use them to make essential oils. Today, their property boasts over 200 lavender plants, which they use to make essential oils, soaps and other products.

“Lavender was the perfect complement to the bees,” Jen said. “Not only did it make our honey unique, but it also gave us new products to o er the community.”

In 2019, they took the leap and o cially launched their business, Flower Street Farm, just in time for the pandemic to shut down farmer’s markets and limit their ability to get the word out.

Although it delayed their entry into local markets, the break gave them valuable time to expand their colonies and prepare for the future. By 2021, they were ready, hitting the market circuit in full force.

Bryan said the moment he knew they’d made it came while standing in their booth at the Denver Botanical Garden’s lavender festival. ey’d gone from attending festivals to selling at them.

“We got there in an authentic way, which felt really good,” Jen said. “We

stayed true to who we were as educators and as people interested in sustainability and renewable resources.” ey now sell their products at popular venues, including Denver’s Botanic Gardens events and the Highlands Farmers Market, as well as through their website.

For the couple, beekeeping is a family a air. eir sons often help, supporting them at farmers’ markets and during the busy production season. While the market season slows in winter, the couple keeps busy by attending beekeeping conferences, researching sustainable practices and re ning their products.

Bryan also o ers workshops and consultations for aspiring beekeepers and is an advisor for the Colorado State Beekeepers Association.

rough their work, they hope to inspire others to see the beauty and importance of bees and to support pollinator health in their own ways. Bryan and Jen encourage people to look at their property as land they can cultivate instead of a spot for grass.

“Not everyone needs to be a beekeeper to support local pollinators,” Jen said. “A great way to do it is to purchase local honey and get to know your beekeeper. Know the people that you’re purchasing from and know that you’re getting an authentic product.”

Each season, their passion for bees and sustainable beekeeping grows stronger, and they’re excited to see where it takes them next.

“It feels good to know we’re doing something meaningful,” Jen said. “We love sharing our passion with the community, and we hope it inspires others to think di erently about their own impact.”

Bryan and Jen Zavada make bees wax candles with holiday designs.

PHOTO BY SUZIE GLASSMAN

LIFESTYLES

AN ADVERTISING SECTION OF COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

ELF works to improve safety from one end of Evergreen to the other

By Anne Vickstrom Special to Lifestyles

A lot of folks in Evergreen don’t know about the Evergreen Legacy Fund – ELF – but certainly bene t from its hard work. ELF is making Evergreen a safer place to live.

In a nutshell, because Evergreen is unincorporated, it is considered rural; therefore, Je erson County is not required to fund infrastructure such as crosswalks, sidewalks, or shoulders. at’s where ELF steps in and works with Je co, CDOT, Evergreen Parks and Recreation (EPRD), and other governmental agencies to see projects completed — much like the role of a Town Manager in an Incorporated town.

ELF raises funds from voluntary contributions from customers of participating ELF member businesses, based on 1% of sales — an idea borrowed from Crested Butte where 1%

FEATURE OF THE MONTH

is collected to protect open space. Of course, individuals and businesses can also make donations and bequests. When ELF requests projects be addresssed, it comes with funds to back them, resulting in governmental entities becoming enthusiastic partners.

In 2012 Evergreen downtown business owners and community leaders, Dean Dalvit, Gail Riley, Richard Touissant, Bob Cardwell, Kathleen Davis, and Rachel Emmer formed what eventually became the Evergreen Legacy Fund, to improve the historic area of Evergreen. Over the years, the scope of the organization expanded to include all ve activity centers across Evergreen. In 2020, Je co County Commissioners endorsed

formation of the Evergreen Local Improvement District (ELID), enabling Je erson County to make important public safety improvements on county roadways across Evergreen, funded by ELF funds. ELF seeks grants providing seed money, leveraging every contributed dollar tenfold.

During a two-year process of intensive community engagement, 45 priority projects were selectively reduced to 17 improvements in Je co rights-of-way to increase safety in our community.

Projects like the crosswalks and sidewalks near Wilmot Elementary School have taken ve or more years to come to fruition. ELF has learned to be patient. Project timing and scope is at the discretion of Je co. Delays can occur through the bid process, and occasionally projects may be scaled-down to keep costs down.

ELF board members view the shoulder area along Meadow Drive that will soon have a sidewalk extending to the Hiwan History Museum.

Photo by Ellen Nelson

ELF

From Page 17

Under the professional leadership of Dean Dalvit, ELF has developed a strong working relationship with Je co and other partners. “Maintaining relationships with government partners and our elected o cials is hard work,” Dean explains, “because they change so frequently. We have to be relentless in keeping in close contact with new people and educating them on the history of ELF or else we can quickly lose all of the momentum and credibility we’ve created over the years.”

ELF’s funds have kick-started several projects that would have been delayed or never addressed. For instance, this past summer, the crosswalk across Bu alo Park Road from Greenwood to Hatch Drive was relocated with signalized light and curbs to slow tra c and

Alexa Interiors*

Alpen Way Chalet*

Anderson Insurance Company

Kelli Anderson / Berkshire Hathaway

Bear Essence Salon & Boutique*

Bear Paw Stanbro Property Management

Bistro Del Lago*

Blackbird Kitchen & Bath*

Cactus Jack’s Saloon & Grill

Campfire Evergreen*

Coaty and Woods, PC

Colorado Serenity

Creating Space Colorado

Jennifer Davenport / LIV Sotheby’s

Melody Ellis / Berkshire Hathaway

Tamara Drozda / Madison & Co. Essence*

EV Studio

Evergreen Area Chamber of Commerce

Evergreen Clothing and Mercantile

Evergreen Crafters*

Evergreen Discount Liquors

Evergreen Massage*

Evergreen Living

Evergreen Rodeo Association

Evergreen Wash Co. – Ponderosa & Hilltop*

Evoke 1923*

FirstBank Flicker & Finch Salon

Diane Florscheutz / Wildflower Realty

Kevin Freadhoff / Berkshire Hathaway

Stephanie Freadhoff / Berkshire Hathaway

Wendy Grillo / RE/MAX Alliance

Mary Haling / LIV Sotheby’s

Highland Haven Creekside Inn*

Lakepoint Chiropractic

Marie Lynch / Madison & Company

Alison Maltese / LIV Sotheby’s

Manning Financial Advisors

Marmalade Medical Aesthetics LLC*

Nick Melzer / Compass Realty Mountain Daisy*

Mountain Home Furnishings*

Murphy’s Mountain Grill*

Neighborhood Welcome

PandoraJohnProperties

Pixie Hair Studio*

Julia Purrington / Berkshire Hathaway

Yvette S. Putt / LIV Sotheby’s

Rising Graphics & Printing

Nicole Reyes / LIV Sotheby’s

Shadow Mountain Gallery*

Deborah Simon / LIV Sotheby’s Sisters & Company*

Stems Flower Shop*

Lark Stewart / LIV Sotheby’s

Stillwater Partners LLLP TallGrass*

Tupper’s Team—Madison & Co.

Tricia Wales / Coldwell Banker

Valentine Seevers & Associates

Valerian Landscape Architecture

Andy Wann / Berkshire Hathaway

Wild Aware

Kevin Wilson / Keller Williams Foothills

*1% pass-thru members

INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS

Carolyn Baldwin

Amy Bergevin

Tupper and Karla Briggs

Jeanne Canny

Charles and Bette Carcano

Anne Chew

Liz Cohen—donated in honor of the tireless ELF board

Alexa Cowley—donated in honor of Liz Cohen and Linda Kirkpatrick

Brenda Cumming

Greg Dobbs

Peter and Peggy Eggers

Shelleen Ellington

Miriam Epple

Anna Murray Garner and Kevin Garner

Eric Gill

Gayle Gordon

Mary Houlihan

Peter Jacobson

Luann and Hank Kaanta —donated in honor of Linda Kirkpatrick

Linda Kirkpatrick

Janice and Stephen Kaup

Jim and Anita Kreider

Todd Landrum

Cindy Lempke

Meg and Mike Leonard

Peter and Pam Lindquist

Trish Maggio

Jani and Bryan McCarty

Joan Mickelson

Lynn and Dan Moyle

Dave and Carolyn Nelson

Dan Pike

Jim Pisula and Nadja Pisula-Litoff

Martha Pofit

Charles Rhodes

Gail Riley and Tom Statzell

Brian Roberts

Jay Roberts

Mark Schnoll

Jim and Aleta Smith

Denise Stoner

Richard and Susan Toussaint

Saraben Turner

Marty and Don Unger

Michele Vanags

Laura Veckerelli

Anne and Mark Vickstrom

Nancy Williams and Jim Casebolt

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dean Dalvit, EV Studio

Bob Cardwell, Stillwater Partnership

Alexa Cowley, Mountain Home Furnishings and Alexa Interiors

Brenda Cumming, Medical Aesthetics Eric Gill, Bear Paw Stanbro Property Management

Kaslon, Valerian, LLC

Please see ELF, Page 20 Crosswalks and ADA-accessible 4-way stops in Bergen Park.

Photo by Linda Kirkpatrick

Mortgage Loan O cer

Grant Brewster Represents

YOU... the Customer

NMLS# 737321 Serving the foothils for 30+ years www.grantbrewster.com

By Jo Ann M. Colton Special to Lifestyles

Mortgage Loan Broker Grant Brewster of Edge Home Finance Corporation is committed to helping salaried and/or self-employed individuals obtain the best loan for their needs.

Mortgage broker vs. bank…what’s the di erence? A mortgage broker is not a bank employee/a liate; the products they can o er you are not limited. Grant Brewster represent YOU—not the lender. Mortgage brokers, knowledgeable on current trends, only specialize in mortgages and they rely on your referrals/repeat business.

With a wide assortment of loan options currently available to homebuyers/homeowners (Conventional/VA/FHA/USDA; Fixed Rate, ARMs), choosing the wrong mortgage can be costly. Let Grant’s 30 years’ experience and expertise identify the best lending package tailored to your particular situation, whether it’s with a national wholesale lender, second mortgage/HELOC lender, or private funds. e average consumer savings with a wholesale broker over the life of the loan can be $10,000plus.

For over thirty years, Colorado Foothills native and Mortgage Loan O cer Grant Brewster of Edge Home Finance Corporation has been providing his customers with mortgage services that exceed their expectations. His Evergreen o ce is conveniently located at Flow eory Coworks, 3540 Evergreen Parkway. Contact Mortgage O cer Grant Brewster today for all your home nancing needs (720-6684183/grant.brewster@edgehome nance.com/ www.grantbrewster.com).

Any Lab Test Now® O ers Lab Testing That’s

By Jo Ann M. Colton Special to Lifestyles

Whether you are taking active steps to manage a chronic condition, monitor dosages for a new medication, or engage in a diagnostic process, Any Lab Test Now® of Lakewood o ers you a variety of clinical tests/test options.

With over 230 franchised facilities throughout the United States, and eight locations within the State of Colorado, the Lakewood business is conveniently located at 7650 West Virginia Avenue, Suite C. O ering a complete and extensive range of clinical lab tests, the facility serves its clients Monday-Friday / 7:00 am to 06:00 pm, and Saturday / 9:00 am to 02:00 pm. (closed Sunday).

“We o er thousands of tests, including: STD/DNA/TB/Celiac/Chron’s/IBS, A1C, and Single or Bundle Nutritional B12 Injections, to uninsured and self-pay individuals, and we’re sure to have the test for your speci c situation,” said Drew Scarbrough, the Lakewood franchise owner who moved to Colorado from Florida where he worked as a Veterinary Doctor. “We provide the doctor’s order; no insurance needed or ever accepted.”

Most tests take less than 15 minutes, and many results are ready within 24-72 hours. Choose a test. Choose your time. Get your answer. For fees/testing information and appointments, contact Any Lab Test Now® of Lakewood (720-543-2280 / https//www.anylabtestnow/lakewood-80226). (720) 543-2280

From Page 18

keep drivers in their lanes, along with an added sidewalk along Hatch to Wilmot with ADA ramps for students to safely arrive at school.

When erosion under the Evergreen North Lake Trail caused it to be closed, the ELF board encouraged EPRD to take the lead on a multi-jurisdictional project, donated renderings as well as $50,000 to the extensive undertaking.

e organization provided $30,000 in matching funds and assisted with project coordination for creation of the 200- . pedestrian bridge connecting the lake trial to Downtown. ELF Funds supported the Bear Creek Children’s Mural under the bridge from the lake to downtown, creating a legacy through the art project. ELF contributed $5,000 to the Leadership Evergreen mural on the CenturyLink building downtown, which turned an eye-sore into an admired work of art by local artists Chris and Will Krieg. In 2022 Evergreen High School students designed and delivered on the murals on two sides of Evergreen Metro Building, making this once utilitarian structure add beauty to our community. When EHS was in need of support, ELF kicked in $5,000 for the acquisition of new bleachers.

ELF participated in installation of water fountain in downtown and contributed to the downtown ood relief in 2013, acquired two de brillators for downtown businesses to use in emergencies, and worked with CDOT to have curb-to-curb paving of Main Street, including parking spaces.

Installation of the signalized crosswalk from RTD lot allows folks to have access to the shops at Bergen Marketplace, and Center for the Arts Evergreen. ADA-accessible 4-way stops at the Marketplace at Bergen Park allow not only wheelchairs but strollers to pass safely between the two shopping and residential areas. e crosswalk across Hwy. 74 at Christ the King Church allows neighbors to safely cross from the Meadow Drive community to the walkway leading to Evergreen Lake and north toward Elk Meadow.

At the end of downtown, ELF created the Riverwalk, added signage and striping making Independence Trail one-way and created a pedestrian shoulder, increasing convenience and safety, and adding six additional free parking spaces.

Board Member Eric Gill says, “It’s exciting to have accomplished so much in such a short time. With each completed project, our enthusiasm only grows, knowing we can look forward to accomplishing remaining projects as well.”

Within the next few years ELF looks

A Rude Awakening!

Well, it is suddenly wintertime! How is your replace doing? Does your replace live up to your expectations? You don’t have to live with an ugly, outdated, dirty, dra y replace! Whether you want to burn wood or gas, there are so many attractive AND e cient replace options available. We are your expert resource in high e ciency and high-quality appliances that will keep you warm for many winters to come! Any room in your home can become cozier and warmer. Imagine getting ready for the day on a chilly morning, but you’re perfectly comfortable because you have a beautiful and e cient gas replace burning in your bedroom or bathroom. When it’s time to go, you can easily turn it o with the press of a button or set the replace to thermostat-mode to keep your room consistently warm.

You can even add a replace to a blank wall! We can help you put in a replace almost anywhere in your

home. Your new zero-clearance gas or woodburning replace can be installed into framing that creates a bump-in structure into any room, like the picture below. Adding a vertical design element for the replace within a room can create a focal point for a television, built-in bookshelves, or even the classic look of oor-to-ceiling stone. You can complement the existing style of your home with other design elements around your new replace such as a hearth extension, mantle, stonework, or sleek modern tile.

Today’s replaces have revolutionized what we expect out of our hearth appliances. ere are so many sizes, shapes, and styles to t in any home. ere are many new trends in replaces too, such as the new landscape shape which is not quite a traditional square, nor a modern linear. Some new gas replaces even have burners integrated into the logs, for the most ultra-realistic ame appearance to

date. ere is also a huge increase in the popularity of replaces where you may not expect, such as your kitchen or bedroom. Your home doesn’t have to be brand new or custom-built to have a replace anywhere you want one.

Gas replaces are the most popular choice because they are easy to operate with a thermostatic remote control and can integrate into any room. For gas replaces and stoves, the venting can even be as simple as straight out through the wall, minimizing disturbance to your home while safely exhausting outside.

Did you know you can get a new woodburning replace? EPA-Certi ed woodburning replaces, stoves, and inserts are not only allowed, but encouraged with a new tax credit that is up to $2000 back! All of our woodburning appliances are EPA-Certi ed, and most qualify for this tax credit. We consider high-e ciency woodburning another one of our specialties.

If you already have a replace in your home, we can improve it. It’s not as complicated as it may seem to remove an old, ine cient factory-built replace and replace it with a new, beautiful and powerful heater; such as our project in the picture below. If you wish to update your old masonry replace, there are many design options for putting an insert into the old rebox that will take your replace from outdated and ugly to e cient and elegant.

Visit our website at www.MtnHP. com to see our products and portfolio of work. Or, come see them in person! We have a huge variety of beautiful and e cient replaces in our showroom at 7001 Highway 73 in Marshdale. Come visit us from 9am-5pm Monday through Friday, and 8am-4pm Saturdays. You can also reach us by phone at 303-679-1601, or email at O ce@MtnHP.com.

upon a time,

forward to completing projects including the widening of Highway 73 with paved shoulders, beginning in May, making it safer for pedestrians and bicyclists. A small number of additional parking spaces will also be added.

In 2026, the widening of Meadow Drive will allow for an asphalt pathway so that residents can travel safely along the roadway. At the same time, paving of shoulders on Iris from Elks Lodge to Evergreen Christian Church and Fireweed to Center/Stage for pedestrian safety in shared parking lots for church, choir, and theater activities.

Replacing the Little Cub Creek Road bridge with a turn lane will improve sight distance and pedestrian/ bike safety. A sidewalk from Highway 73 at Bu alo Park Road to Highway 74 downtown currently planned with federal funding. Sidewalks on Bu alo Park Road at Highway 73 to S. Hatch Road and between Bu alo Park Road to Camel Heights Rd. along Highway 73 will allow pedestrians to travel safely from Wilmot Elementary and Evergreen High School to the Library, and with other projects, into downtown.

e Forest Hill Bridge will be replaced with a guardrail and pedestrian handrail.

ere will be a Bu alo Park crossing at EHS so sprinting will no longer be a requirement of students. And nally, a sidewalk along S. Olive Road by EHS can help neighbors and students get to the Wulf Recreation Center and the High School.

Long-time supporter (and a founding board member of ELF) Gail Riley says, “I know the power and the value for Evergreen with the funds we contribute. We have made an impact most certainly in lieu of being incorporated.”

Riley has been instrumental in the beauti cation projects such as the mural by elementary school students under the connector bridge downtown and the murals on two sides of the Evergreen Metro Building at the foot of the dam as well as the addition of a natural stone park bench below one of the murals and another along Bear Creek.

ELF is grateful to the numerous local businesses and individuals who have stepped up to support their goal of raising funds for future projects. Recently, Frank Compagnino, owner of Ponderosa Carwash suggested he place a banner, and stickers at the pay stations, to bring focus on ELF. He generously is donating 1% each month rather than adding on 1%. Asked why he is so enthusiastically supporting ELF he replied, “It’s a great idea –why not?! With all the supporting information and documentation, and seeing what has happened, it makes it legitimate.”

Extensive improvements to safety a orded by sidewalks and crosswalks near Wilmot Elementary.

Photo by Linda Kirkpatrick

e new and improved Evergreen Lake North Trail.

Photo by Linda Kirkpatrick

Gail Riley shows o stone bench along Bear Creek made possible by ELF.

Photo by Tom Statzell

Frank Compagnino, owner of the carwashes at Ponderosa and Hilltop, not only donates 1% of his earnings but also publicizes ELF with banners and stickers. Photo by Linda Kirkpatrick

Returns to Colorado with His ‘Winter’s Eve’ Holiday Tour

By Jo Ann M. Colton Special to Lifestyles

Get set to welcome the 2024 winter season with sounds of music and merriment when David Arkenstone, musician/composer/ performer and ve-time Grammy® Award nominee (2022, 2020, 2004, 2000, and 1992) returns to Colorado in December with his enthralling holiday concert tour “A Winter’s Eve with David Arkenstone & Friends.”

His highly regarded Winter’s Eve tour, which celebrates its third year in our Rocky Mountain state, begins scheduled performances in Golden, Colorado at Bu alo Rose (12/1), Fort Collins (12/3), Colorado Springs (12/4), Salida (12/5), Evergreen (12/6 at Center Stage), and Palmer Lake (12/7), and continues into New Mexico and Arizona. Check the website (davidarkenstone.com) for all tour schedule updates.

Arkenstone, a multi-talented musician who has worked with many musical genres, including progressive rock, has released 70-plus

albums. He has composed music soundtracks for lms/ lm trailers, NBC Sports themes ( e Kentucky Derby, U.S. Figure Skating, Premier League Soccer…), History and Discovery Channels’ historical reenactment dramas, video game scores (among them Heavy Metal), and epic orchestral soundtracks for Emperor: Battle for Dune and the World of Warcra ).

David Arkenstone was one of a select group of composers honored September 27-29, 2024 in Lausanne, Switzerland at four concerts (showcasing a 90-piece orchestra and 120 vocalists) for their musical contributions to World of Warcra , a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) released in 2004 by Blizzard Entertainment.

His epic new album “Quest For e Runestone,” premiered July of this year. A powerful journey of music, story, and emotion based upon his love of Celtic/Nordic and cinematic movie traditions, his inspiration was a short story written by his son Dashiell Han Arkenstone.

“Quest For e Runestone” is available on

all major global streaming platforms.  e CD Digibook is available with a 48-page booklet containing the original short story. e recording was mixed and mastered in Dolby Atmos at Evergroove Studio in Evergreen, Colorado.

David will also be releasing the fourth album in his Fairy-themed Series in the month of November.

Arkenstone, who plays a variety of musical instruments, will mainly play guitar and keyboard at his tour performances. He will be joined on stage by four other musicians playing cello, violin, ute, and percussion.

“I’ve done lots of holiday records throughout my career, and I took the best of what I thought would work live, and put them into the show,” said David. “ ere are a lot of holiday favorites that people know and some of what I call my original winter music. It’s actually a whole lot of fun!”

David Arkenstone, whose music is primarily instrumental, has established himself as one of the best contemporary instrumentalists of our time. He has clearly found his niche in

new age and neo-classical compositions that have been described as “soundtracks for the imagination.”

Categorized by melodic harmonies, improvisation, and sounds reproduced from the natural world, his listeners o en feel a peaceful sense of calm that carries them on magical journeys within their minds. His music moves people. When asked why, he stated, “I think it starts with me wanting to go on my own little adventure. en I make this sort of ‘sound painting’ in my mind that takes me there. I try to keep it interesting, and I am fortunate that people like to go on these adventures with me…they like where I take them.”

Visit David’s website (davidarkenstone.com) for venues/concert dates, and ticket information. Music lovers and Arkenfans…treat yourselves to a memorable musical night with David Arkenstone at any, or all, of his Colorado concert engagements, including his December 6 appearance at Center Stage, 27608 Fireweed Drive, Evergreen, Colorado.

Coalition looks to bring Active Bystandership Law Enforcement Program to Je erson County

BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

John Paul Marosy never imagined that his path to advocating for law enforcement reform would be shaped by both personal loss and community tragedy.

e Je erson County resident found his passion for transforming the justice system after two life-altering events: the heart attack that took his brother Michael’s life in 1979 while on duty as a police o cer and the 2018 tragic shooting of Joseph Santos, an unarmed Latino man, in Pennsylvania.

Marosy lived in Pennsylvania at the time and joined a vigil for Santos led by a faith-based organization.

“ e recognition that this happens to people of color all too often in our country became not an abstraction but a reality in my own life,” he said.

Drawing from these deeply personal experiences, Marosy now volunteers with Together Colorado’s Transforming Justice Team and is working to promote the Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement program, a training initiative designed to help police o cers intervene in potentially harmful situations and to support their mental health.

e ABLE program, developed by

BERGEN PARK CHURCH

Georgetown Law’s Innovative Policing Program, teaches o cers how to intervene when a colleague uses excessive force or engages in harmful behavior. e training also aims to create a police culture that promotes o cer health and wellness.

According to Marosy, the training is about protecting the public and reducing o cers’ stress. He believes that if the program had been in place earlier, it could have prevented incidents like the deaths of Christian Glass in Colorado or George Floyd in Minnesota.

Colorado has 33 ABLE-trained police departments, including the Colorado State Patrol, the Denver Police Department, the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s Ofce, the Littleton Police Department and the Arvada Police Department.

Together Colorado, a nonpartisan, multi-racial and multi-faith community organization and its Transforming Justice team spearheaded e orts to bring the ABLE program to many of those departments.

Now, Marosey said he hopes to expand that number to include all of Je erson Counties’ law enforcement agencies.

About ABLE

Amity Losey, a sergeant with the Ar-

vada Police Department, explained that the ABLE program has three pillars. “It’s about reducing mistakes, preventing misconduct and promoting health and wellness among o cers,” she said.

While the department has resources and training to support its personnel, Losey said the ABLE training gives them the language to step in and say something, especially when the other person might outrank them, or they are new to the department.

“You practice how to step in and how to say something,” Losey said. “While it could be about excessive force or something like that, it could also be regarding the health and wellness of your fellow ofcer.

“If you notice your co-worker is acting di erently, or they look sleep deprived, it’s about being able to have those conversations with your partner so that you’re reducing mistakes by dealing with those personal dynamics on the front end, as opposed to waiting for something bad to happen,” Losey continued.

ABLE follows a train-the-trainer model, whereby o cers within a department take free online courses and then roll them out to the rest of the department during regular working hours.

“It doesn’t cost taxpayers anything to

implement ABLE, and on the ip side, it could save departments thousands of untold dollars by preventing potential mistakes,” Losey said.

According to the Georgetown Law Center website, “ABLE training and implementation support is provided at no cost to law enforcement agencies, but those agencies must commit to creating a culture of active bystandership and peer intervention through policy, training, support, and accountability.”

Learn more

While the program is free, the application requires departments to submit letters of support from community-based organizations.

Marosy and his team are hosting a webinar on November 14 to expand community support for the program. e webinar will feature Jonathan Aronie, the national expert on ABLE, who has helped large police departments across the country implement the program.

Participants must register to participate in the event.

For more information about the ABLE program, visit the Georgetown Law ABLE Program website or Together Colorado’s Transforming Justice Team.

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

Bergen Park Church is a group of regular people who strive to improve ourselves and our community by studying the Bible and sharing our lives with each other. On Sunday mornings you can expect contemporary live music, Children’s Ministry that seeks to love and care for your kids, teaching from the Bible, and a community of real people who are imperfect, but seek to honor God in their lives. We hope to welcome you soon to either our 9:00AM or 10:30AM Sunday service.

Search Bergen Park Church on YouTube for Livestream service at 9:00am 31919 Rocky Village Dr. 303-674-5484 info@bergenparkchurch.org / www.BergenParkChurch.org

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH SERVICES

28244 Harebell Lane

Sunday Service & Sunday School: 10 a.m.

Wednesday evening: 7p.m: (Zoom only Nov.1st-Mar. 31st.)

Visit: www.christianscienceevergreen.com for more information and ZOOM link

Reading Room: 4602 Plettner Lane 303-674-5296

OPEN: TUES-SAT 12 p.m.-3 p.m.

CHURCH OF THE HILLS PRESBYTERIAN (USA) Serving the mountain community from the heart of Evergreen Worship 10:00 a.m.

Reverend Richard Aylor

O ce Hours: Tu-Thur 9:00 - 4:00; Fri 9:00 - noon Bu alo Park Road and Hwy 73 www.churchofthehills.com

CHURCH OF THE TRANSFIGURATION EPISCOPAL

In-Church: Sunday Communion Quiet Service 8:00 am & with Music 10:15 am 10:15 am only Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86017266569

In-Meadow: 2nd Sunday of the month at 9:30 a.m. --June through September— 27640 Highway 74 – ¼ mile east of downtown Evergreen at the Historic Bell Tower www.transfigurationevergreen.org

CONGREGATION BETH EVERGREEN (SYNAGOGUE)

Reconstructionist Synagogue

Rabbi Jamie Arnold www.BethEvergreen.org / (303) 670-4294 2981 Bergen Peak Drive (behind Life Care)

DEER PARK UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

Reverend Dr. Knut Heim, pastor, Sunday Worship 10 AM

Located one mile west of Pine Junction just o Rt. 285 966 Rim Rock Road, Bailey (303) 838-6759 deerparkumc.org

All are welcome to our open/inclusive congregation!

EVERGREEN LUTHERAN CHURCH 5980 Highway 73 + 303-674-4654

Rev. Terry Schjang

Join us for worship in person or on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/EvergreenLutheranChurch Sunday Worship held at 9am. www.evergreenlutheran.org + All Are Welcome!

LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY CHURCH – EPC 1036 El Rancho Rd, Evergreen – (303) 526-9287 www.lomcc.org – o ce@lomcc.org Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m., with communion every Sunday “Real Church In An UnReal World”

A community empowered by the Holy Spirit which seeks authentic relationships with God and others to share the good news of Jesus with Evergreen, the Front Range and the world. Come as you are, all are welcome!

PLATTE CANYON COMMUNITY CHURCH

Located: 4954 County Road 64 in Bailey.

O ce hours MWF 8am-1pm 303-838-4409, Worship & Children’s Church at 10am

Small group studies for all ages at 9am

Transitional Pastor: Mark Chadwick

Youth Pastor: Jay Vonesh

Other activities: Youth groups, Men’s/Women’s ministries, Bible studies, VBS, MOPS, Cub/Boy Scouts.

ROCKLAND COMMUNITY CHURCH

“Connecting all generations to Jesus” Please check our website, www.Rockland.church, for updated service times ¼ mile north of I-70 at exit 254 17 S Mt. Vernon Country Club Rd., Golden, CO 80401 303-526-0668

SHEPHERD OF THE ROCKIES LUTHERAN CHURCH Missouri Synod. 106 Rosalie Road, Bailey, CO

303-838-2161 Pastor Pete Scheele Sunday Worship Service; 9 a.m., Fellowship Time; 10:15 a.m., Sunday School & Bible Class; 10:45 a.m. www.shepherdoftherockies.org

UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF EVERGREEN Rev. Sarah Clark • 303.674.4810

TRIVIA

1. MOVIES: In the movie “ e Shawshank Redemption,” what is Andy Dufresne’s occupation before he was imprisoned?

2. LITERATURE: Which of Shakespeare’s plays features the characters of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

3. TELEVISION: Which 2000s TV drama starred a character named Jack Bauer?

4. U.S. PRESIDENTS: What was First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy’s maiden name?

5. HISTORY: Which dynasty built the Forbidden City in China?

6. MYTHOLOGY: What is the name of the mythical creature who is half man and half horse?

7. CHEMISTRY: What is aqua regia?

8. GEOGRAPHY: Where was the ancient region of Mesopotamia mostly located?

9. ANATOMY: Where are the alveoli located?

10. FOOD & DRINK: What is hummus mostly made of?

Answers

1. Banker.

2. “Hamlet”

3. “24.”

4. Bouvier.

5. Ming Dynasty.

6. Centaur.

7. A corrosive mixture that can dissolve gold.

8. Iraq.

9. Lungs.

10. Chickpeas.

(c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

FLASHBACK

1. Which group released “Rag Doll”?

2. Name the artist who wrote and released “Dreamy Eyes.”

3. Which group released “Green-Eyed Lady”?

4. Who wrote and released “Cracklin’ Rosie”?

5. Name the song that contains this lyric: “If I could take my pick of all the girls I’ve ever known, en I’d come and pick you out to be my very own.”

Answers

1. e Four Seasons, in 1964. e song spent two weeks at the top of the Hot 100 chart and reached No. 1 in Canada as well.

2. Johnny Tillotson, in 1958. e song was his rst single and made it on to the Hot 100 chart. Tillotson penned several more hits over the years, including “Poetry in Motion.”

3. Sugarloaf, in 1970. A few years ago an old tape was found of the group’s live performance in 1975. It was remastered and turned into a vinyl album titled “Sugarloaf Live 1975.” It’s

available online.

4. Neil Diamond, in 1970.

5. “Never Be Anyone Else But You,” by Ricky Nelson, in 1959. Nelson’s song has been covered by several artists, including internationally, over the years. e song has recently been used in a TV commercial for chicken noodle soup.

(c) 2024 King Features Syndicate

CAREERS REAL ESTATE & RENTAL

Full-time, year-round position. Responsible for maintaining the o cial records of the Town of Georgetown, overseeing elections, and providing administrative support to the Board of Selectmen. The salary range is $60,000 - $85,000 depending on quali cations. Excellent bene ts including fully paid medical insurance, vision, dental, disability and retirement for employee.

TOWN TREASURER for Town of Georgetown

Full-time, year-round position. Responsible for overseeing the nancial operations of the Town of Georgetown. This includes managing the town’s revenues, expenditures, investments, and nancial records. The salary range is $85,000 - $120,000 depending on quali cations. Excellent bene ts including fully paid medical insurance, vision, dental, disability and retirement for employee.

Full job description and application form are available at Town Hall, 404 6th Street, Georgetown and online at www.townofgeorgetown.us. For more information call 303-569-2555 x3. Email Cover Letter, Resume, and completed Application to townadmin@townofgeorgetown.us. Posting will remain open until lled. Serious applicants are encouraged to apply immediately, and interviews may begin when quali ed applicants are reviewed.December 31, 2024, or until lled. Serious applicants are encouraged to apply immediately, and interviews may begin when quali ed applicants are reviewed.

MARKETPLACE

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TOWN CLERK for Town of Georgetown

Scientists want your help to digitize historic data on bees

BY RACHEL COHEN

MOUNTAIN WEST NEWS BUREAU

Within aisles of cabinets at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Museum of Natural History collections are rows upon rows of wooden display boxes with glass tops. Each box holds dozens to hundreds of bee specimens.

Leafcutter bees with blades on their teeth. Round-bodied Western bumblebees. Metallic green sweat bees.

Details about each specimen, like the species name, who found it, where and when, are pinned down under each bee. Put together, it’s a treasure trove of data about the crucial pollinators. e problem is that it’s analog, on tiny slips of paper, sometimes handwritten in cursive.

Now, scientists are pushing to get that information out of the museum cabinets and onto computers. at’s because there’s currently a lack of information about populations of many bee species.

“If we get that data, and we can rebuild those distributions, we can look for how they’re changing over time which could inform something so basic as whether or not we should be concerned that they’re declining,” said Adrian Carper, an entomology curator at the museum.

To digitize their bee collections, researchers at 13 institutions, including CU Boul-

der, the University of Nevada, Reno, and Arizona State University, formed the “Big Bee Bonanza.”

Volunteer citizen scientists can visit an online platform calledNotes from Nature, which gives visitors specimens to transcribe. In dropdown menus and text boxes, the platform asks you to write down the words on labels next to zoomed-in images of bees.

For example, the note by one mining bee says it was collected near Carbondale, Colo., in 1982. When you’re done with one bee, Notes from Nature prompts you to enter data for another one, like a computer game.

“I nd myself having to set alarms because I can’t ever stop doing this —- it’s so much fun,” said Virginia Scott, the collections manager.

e team at CU Boulder is hoping to get notes from 50,000 bee specimens transcribed by 2025.

“Participating in this project is one of the biggest ways you can help in bee conservation because it gets that data to the conservationists who need it,” Carver said.

e Mountain West News Bureau is a collaboration between Wyoming Public Media, Nevada Public Radio, Boise State Public Radio in Idaho, KUNR in Nevada, KUNC in Colorado and KANW in New Mexico.

wd=uEN1XxRLvGxx9fCYgZ8a657vzK541C.1&omn=84579689761 Meeting ID: 850 951

Canyon Courier

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET

Notice is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the EVERGREEN PARK & RECREATION DISTRICT (“EPRD”) for the ensuing year of 2025. A copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the offices of the EPRD Administrative building, located at 1521 Bergen Parkway, Evergreen, CO, the Wulf Recreation Center, located at 5300 S. Olive Road, Evergreen, CO, and the Buchanan Park Recreation Center, located at 32003 Ellingwood Trail, Evergreen, CO, as well as online at www.evergreenrecreation.com. The proposed budget is available for inspection by the public at any of the above locations. Such proposed budget will be considered at a public hearing during a regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of the Evergreen Park & Recreation District to be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at 5:00 p.m, in-person at Buchanan Park Recreation

Center, located at 32003 Ellingwood Trail, Evergreen, CO.

Any interested elector of such Evergreen Park & Recreation District may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget.

Legal Notice No. CAN 1728 First Publication: November 14, 2024 Last Publication: November 14, 2024 Publisher: Canyon Courier

Public Notice

NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED 2025 BUDGET AND 2024 BUDGET AMENDMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the proposed budget for the year of 2025 has been submitted to the Saddleback Metropolitan District (the “District”). Such proposed budget will be considered at a meeting and public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District to be held on November 19, 2024 at 5:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as possible at 35715 Highway 40, Building B, Suite 100, Evergreen, CO, 80439. Any additional information regarding public participation will be available at least 24 hours prior to the meeting and public hearing online at https://saddlebackmd.com.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an amendment to the 2024 budget of the District may also be considered at the above-referenced meeting and public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District. A copy of the proposed 2025 budget and amended 2024 budget, if required, are available for public inspection at the offices of Spencer Fane LLP 1700 Lincoln Street, Suite 2000, Denver, CO 80203. Any

interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to final adoption of the 2025 budget and the amended 2024 budget, if required, file or register any objections.

SADDLEBACK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

By: /s/ Tarly Dall, President

Legal Notice No. CAN 1729

First Publication: November 14, 2024

Last Publication: November 14, 2024

Publisher: Canyon Courier

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED BUDGET

Notice is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Foothills Fire Protection District for the ensuing year of 2025. A copy of such a proposed budget has been filed with the officers of the FFPD Board of Directors. The proposed budget is available for inspection by the public at https://foothillsfire.colorado.gov. Such a proposed budget will be considered at a public hearing during a regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of the District to be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 6:30 p.m., in-person at 28812 Rainbow Hill RD. Evergreen, CO and virtually via Zoom. The Zoom may be joined remotely using the following information: Zoom link https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86329092665.

Legal Notice No. CAN 1725

First Publication: November 14, 2024

Last Publication: November 14, 2024

Publisher: Canyon Courier

Bids and Settlements

Public Notice

NOTICE OF FINAL PAYMENT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Roxborough Water and Sanitation District of Douglas and Jefferson County, Colorado, will make final payment at the offices of Roxborough Water and Sanitation District, 6222 N. Roxborough Road, Littleton, CO 80125, on or after 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 20, 2024, to Redline Pipeline,

A bee visits a group of late-summer flowers Aug. 29 outside Colorado School of Mines’ Volk Gymnasium.

PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN

Inviting you to join our Family of Rotary

Our Evergreen Rotary Club family has a lot of fun. Yes, every year we undertake many charitable projects both within our community and internationally –and we always have fun serving others.

Our 100+ members also enjoy our many social activities: Hiking, our Book Club, a regular Dine-

around, ‘Rowdy Rotarians’ get-togethers, baseball outings, international trips, and many more ‘family’ gatherings. And our weekly meetings are full of fun and camaraderie too… Our membership is open to all people of all ages and all backgrounds –More info at EvergreenRotary.org

Our club has more than 100 members from all walks of life. We like to have fun and we organize social functions throughout the year.

• We meet once a week on Fridays at 7:00 a.m. for breakfast. There is no meeting commitment – attend as many or as few as you like.

• Our meetings, events, location details and speaker schedules can be found at EvergreenRotary.org, along with details about our local and international committees and projects.

• Our membership is open to all people of all ages and all backgrounds. More info at EvergreenRotary.org

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