Lone Tree Voice February 8, 2024 by Colorado Community Media

VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 49

WEEK OF FEBRUARY 8, 2024

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Douglas County schools join social media fight

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Douglas County School District will join hundreds of other districts around the country to sue social media companies for the harm they inflict on students. More than 700 school districts, including Jeffco Public Schools and Denver Public Schools, have signed onto a national lawsuit against Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube. The lawsuit alleges that social media companies designed an addictive product through algorithms that target children in a system that lacks sufficient age verification and parental controls. At the Jan. 23 board meeting, Douglas County School District Superintendent Erin Kane said the district is interested in joining the lawsuit because of numerous negative impacts to students and the resulting increased costs for the district, such as counselors and school resource officers. “We have the option to be a part of leading the way and not just with litigation, but generally,” Kane said. “It would make a powerful statement to our parents and community that we are taking this issue seriously.” Education leaders and attorneys hope the lawsuit will force social media companies to improve algorithms, provide more robust age and parental controls, and award monetary damages to districts who participate in the case. Jonathan Kieffer, an attorney for the Kansas City firm Wagstaff and Cartmell, which is leading the national lawsuit, said the case has been going on for around a year and multiple claims have received approval from a judge to go to a jury trial, which could be a year or two away. “That is historic,” Kieffer said. SEE SOCIAL MEDIA, P4

VOICES: 12 | LIFE: 14 | CALENDAR: 17

THE MENTAL SIDE OF STRESS MANAGEMENT P5

$65K FOR POSTCARDS EXPLAINING TAX RELIEF

Douglas County School District will join a national lawsuit against social media companies for the harm they inflict on students’ mental health and safety. The lawsuit targets TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube and Meta, which SHUTTERSTOCK owns Facebook and Instagram.

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PARKER LACROSSE PLAYER FIGHTS FOR PROGRAM P18

LONETREEVOICE.NET • A PUBLICATION OF COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

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Castle Rock councilman to run for Capitol seat BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Castle Rock Town Councilman Max Brooks is launching a campaign to represent the town at the state Capitol. The Republican has announced his intention to run for House District 45. The seat is being vacated by Rep. Lisa Frizell, who recently announced she is running for Colorado Senate District 2. Republican Bill Jack is also seeking the seat, according to state filings. Jack ran unsuccessfully against Frizell in the 2022 primary. The 2024 Republican primary is on June 25. Brooks was elected to the town council in 2022 and formerly served on Castle Rock’s Planning Commission.

Brooks told the Douglas County News Press that he decided to run for the seat because he’s committed to being a public servant. He said he was asked by constituents to get in the race. “It’s a true dedication and passion for representing the view of the constituents and acting in a way that reflects the community’s values and opinions,” he said. One of Brooks’ main policy focuses would be on fiscal responsibility and lowering taxes. He said he is unhappy with the legislation passed in the special legislative session last year because it ignored the will of the voters by emulating the failed ballot initiative Propopsition HH. “I’m about small government that is reactive to constituents,” Brooks said. Other priorities for Brooks include

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Castle Rock councilman Max Brooks is running to represent House District 45, which encompasses the town. Brooks, a Republican, said his priorities include fiscal responsibility, public safety and COURTESY OF MAX BROOKS limiting government.

funding law enforcement, addressing public safety, supporting parental rights in education and healthcare, and defending gun rights. Brooks said he would work across party lines to efficiently serve the community, but added that he would like to see Republicans unify to gain more seats. “I believe good policy comes from good balance and we don’t have that right now,” he said. During his time on town council, Brooks said he’s proud to have spearheaded changes to protect the town’s skylines and ridgelines, expand enforcement of the sign code and acquire open space at the Lost Canyon Ranch. “I believe voters can feel confident because of the work I’ve done at town council that I can reflect that at the statehouse,” he said.

Forest Service seeking comments on old-growth logging restrictions BY ERIC GALATAS PUBLIC NEWS SERVIC

The timber industry is pushing back against the Biden administration’s proposal to limit commercial logging in the nation’s last old-growth forests. The move announced last month would put restrictions on harvesting within a small fraction of lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Josh Hicks, conservation director for The Wilderness Society, sees the proposal as an important step to conserve the remaining 8% of old-growth forests so they can do what they do best: store carbon and stabilize ecosystems. “After centuries of logging, and now more recently climate-driven impacts from severe wildfire and drought, there’s not a lot of old growth left in the country or in Colorado,” Hicks pointed out. “It’s just a fraction of what it used to be.” Forests absorb carbon pollution directly from the air, and are seen as an important tool for mitigating climate change. But industry groups worry the proposal will prompt lawsuits aiming to block logging projects, including those seen as necessary to reduce the scale of wildfires. Some

environmental groups say protections should be extended to mature forests currently managed for timber production. Hicks acknowledged the new proposal, which is open to public comment through Feb. 2, will need industry to help clear out heavy fuel loads which can lead to bigger and more powerful wildfires. But he noted economics will no longer be the driving factor in some forest management decisions. Managers would prioritize ecological concerns involving old growth conservation. “The younger trees that come out of the forest to reduce the fuel loads, the companies that pick up these contracts can still find economic value for this,” Hicks contended. “This is not to remove industry, and in fact I feel like industry is part of the solution here.” Old-growth forests are home to an abundance of diverse plant and animal species, and Hicks argued keeping the ecosystems intact can help preserve biodiversity as the fallout from climate change takes hold. He added the new policy would not only conserve the last stands of old growth, it will also foster the creation of more old-growth forests for future generations.

February 8, 2024 ADVERTISEMENT

‘Empty Nest’ Baby Boomers Own Twice as Many Big Homes as Millennials With Kids A recent study by Redfin found that 28% of “empty nester” baby boomers owned homes with three or more bedrooms, while only 14% of millennials with children had homes with 3+ bedrooms. The study was based on 2022 census data, the most recent available. Looked at another way, 45.5% of empty nester boomers own big homes. Only 27% of millennials with kids own a big home, and only 3% of Gen Z families with children own a big home. Those are national numbers. Here are the numbers for Denver and three other cities: Denver Los Angeles San Francisco New York City

Boomers Millennials 25.0% 15.1% 23.7% 9.4% 26.1% 10.9% 23.9% 11.8%

Gen Z parents with children are even worse off. The report states that almost none of them (0.3%) own homes with 3+ bedrooms. Remember, the key word here is “own.” Gen Z and many millennial families are more likely to be renters than homeowners. (Adult Gen Zers are 19 to 25 years old, millennials are 26 to 41, Gen Xers are 42 to 57, and baby boomers are 58 to 76.) Rita and I, as baby boomers, are part of a trend I expect to grow — selling our big home and becoming renters. As our fellow boomers get older, they are already wanting to downsize, not only because of the empty bedrooms in their oversized home. They want freedom from home maintenance, lawn care, and other household responsibilities. Buying a condo or renting an apartment (as we did) has the additional advantage of creating a “lock and leave” situation, allowing seniors to go on vacation — to see their grandchildren or take a cruise. What surprised me was that ten years earlier, the numbers were almost equal for those two groups, according to Redfin; “In 2012, empty nesters of the silent generation (who were 67 to 84 at the

time) took up 16% of homes with 3+ bedrooms. That’s a smaller share than Gen Xers (who were 32 to 47 at the time) with kids, who took up 19% of those large homes.” I can think of several possible explanations for the most recent statistics. For starters, change is hard. It’s uncomfortable, especially if you are elderly. For the 54% of boomers who own their home free and clear, the cost of staying put is low, and the cost of moving is high. For boomers who have a mortgage, it is at a very low rate if, like the rest of us, they refinanced into loans around 3% or even lower. They can’t take that mortgage with them to a replacement home, and current rates (6 to 7 percent) seem really high given what they’re paying now. The failure of boomers to put their large homes on the market has reduced the supply of bigger homes for millennials to purchase. Additionally, millennials who don’t currently own a home wouldn’t have any equity to help them with a down payment on a new home. Affordability remains a big obstacle for millennials, and Redfin estimates that 19% of them don’t even want to purchase a new home. Also, many like to live “where the action is” in center cities, where big homes are scarce. Whether or not they are waiting for the opportunity to buy a large home, millennials with kids already make up the largest age group that is renting homes with three or more bedrooms — 24.8%. Millennials without kids are the next biggest age group renting homes with 3+ bedrooms — 11.6%. The third largest age group renting such homes is us empty-nest baby boomers — 11.4%. Rita and I are renting a 3-bedroom apartment because I need an office and we wanted to have a room for guests. I am on a world cruise until May 6 (see

http://WhereAreJimandRita.substack.com),

but it’s a “working vacation.” I answer my cell phone and return emails, so feel free to reach out to me with your real estate needs and questions!

No Real Estate Brokerage Exposes Your Home to As Many Buyers As Golden Real Estate Does

If you choose one of our broker associates or me to list your home, it will be featured in this weekly ad. But did you know how many newspapers publish this column? It appears every Thursday in all editions of the Denver Post’s YourHub section, plus the following weekly newspapers: Arvada Press, Brighton Standard Blade, Canyon Courier, Castle Pines News-Press, Castle Rock News-Press, Centennial Citizen, Clear Creek Courant, Commerce City Sentinel Express, Denver Herald-Dispatch, Douglas County News Press, Elbert County News, Englewood Herald, Fort Lupton Press, Golden Transcript, Highlands Ranch Herald, Hustler 285, Jeffco Transcript, Littleton Independent, Lone Tree Voice, MetroWest Advertiser, Northglenn-Thornton Sentinel, Parker Chronicle, South Platte Independent & Westminster Window. The total circulation is over 300,000!

Older baby boomers might want to make the same calculation Rita and I made when we sold our big home. We realized that, because of the increase in market value of our home, we could net a substantial amount of cash by selling our home, even after paying capital gains above the $500,000 marital exclusion. Our home’s equity was not paying us any dividends sitting in our house, and it wouldn’t pay us dividends if we sequestered it in, say, a patio home. Thanks to Medicare, we realized that by investing the net proceeds from the sale of our house we would generate a monthly income greater than the rent we would be paying, and that’s without dipping into the Social Security income that we were already earning. The big increase we were seeing in our property tax added to that calculation, as did my hunch that the surge in home values may have peaked and could decline in future years. It was a good time to sell. If you’re a senior citizen sitting on substantial equity, you might reach the same conclusion we did — that selling and renting is, surprisingly, the smart

thing to do. (I never thought, especially as a Realtor, that renting would make more sense, but, at our age, it actually does.) And consider this: If you sell your home and don’t buy another one, the “lock-in effect” of your current low-rate mortgage no longer applies.

Beware of Cloned Realtor Voices

I Recommend Subscribing to Big Pivots

This & That: Smaller Topics Not Worth Full Articles The Colorado Association of Realtors recently warned that a new use of artificial intelligence involves cloning the voices of trusted real estate professionals to scam them and their clients. One CAR member had this done. CAR made these suggestions for staying safe: Intercept Suspicious Calls: Be cautious of robocalls that pressure you to act immediately, particularly from unknown numbers. Confirm Identities: If you receive a robocall or suspicious call claiming to be someone you know, hang up. Contact that person directly using a number you trust to verify the call. Limit Public Information: Consider the personal information you share online. Scammers can use this to tailor attacks like robocalls. Report and Block: If you receive a robocall that seems like a scam, report it to the authorities. You can also block the number to prevent future calls.

Big Pivots® is a Colorado-based nonprofit. It aims to document, understand, and educate about the changes made necessary by climate change. Those changes include the energy, water, and other areas of urgent attention in the 21st century and beyond. Subscribe free at www.BigPivots.com. The latest bi-monthly issue (#81) included a dozen topics on 23 printable letter-size pages. Editor Allen Best does an incredible job providing statewide information that matters.

EVs Could Drive Down Electric Costs

On my posting of this article online at RealEstateToday.substack.com, there is a link to a report about several studies which conclude that EVs will actually contribute to more efficient utilization of the electric grid and thereby drive down electric costs for all consumers. One reason is that most EV charging is done overnight, creating a revenue stream for utilities during hours of low electric demand.

Jim Smith

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SOCIAL MEDIA FROM PAGE 1

Instead of focusing on the content on social media, Kieffer said the lawsuit goes after the product itself, sidestepping any First Amendment challenges. He compared social media platforms to a car manufacturer selling vehicles without seatbelts or airbags. “We say that these platforms have defective design features,” he said. Kieffer recently told Douglas County’s school board that the district would not be at risk of paying attorney’s fees for the social media company if the case failed. The district is only responsible for costs associated with the case if it is successful. Kieffer added that though the cases are consolidated, each district will have control over their own settlements should they be awarded. The board voted unanimously to join the lawsuit. Kane said the lawsuit would just be one way the district will be approaching social media in the coming year. Staff is also working on creating educational tools for parents and students, training for teachers and having more community engagement on the topic. “This is not meant to supplant other efforts,” she said. “We absolutely have to be educating our community around the dangers of social media and giving our staff and parents tools.” A 2023 report from the federal Department of Health and Human Services found that teens spend an average of 3.5 hours a day on social media. That social media use can lead to increased anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia and disordered eating, the report says. Users may also be exposed to hate content or self-harm and suicide related content. Cimarron Middle School Principal Chris Zimmerman said that social media is linked to half of the Safe2Tell tips at the school in the last year and a half. “If our students are on social media for almost five hours a day, what are they not doing,” Zimmerman said, giving examples like eating dinner with family, participat-

ing in extracurricular activities and getting a full night of sleep. Deputy Superintendent Danny Winsor said he deals with social media challenges on a daily basis, even outside of school hours and off school property. Kane said the district has had to hire more counselors and implement increased mental health supports as a result of student social media use. The district currently has one counselor for every 250 students. Social media also facilitates bullying, harassment and threats, Kane said, causing more disciplinary issues. Even students agreed that they want more tools to be able to better navigate social media and the online landscape. “This is a societal issue, not just something that gets decided by the terms of use that everyone scrolls through without reading,” district Student Advisory Group Chair Jake Oliver said. “We request that the district look at methods outside of just prosecuting social media companies like developing tools for students to interact with the platforms in a healthy manner.” With the discussion of social media impacts reaching a peak, the school districts aren’t the only organizations looking at reining in social media companies. At the state level, a bipartisan bill, HB24-1136, has been introduced that would mandate the Colorado Department of Education create an online database of research on the effects of social media on mental health, as well as require in-app notifications to break up scrolling. Federally, discussions of regulations for social media have been heated. In a U.S. Senate hearing on Jan. 31, CEOs of Meta, TikTok and Snapchat faced intense questioning from federal lawmakers and heckling from families who have lost children through instances involving social media. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, encouraged litigation as a way to prompt change. “I am tired of talking. I’m tired of having discussions,” Graham said. “Open up the courthouse door. Until you do that, nothing will change. Until these people can be sued for the damage they’re doing, it is all talk.”

February 8, 2024

Holiday office closure Douglas County offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 19, 2024. Many services are available at DoItOnlineDouglas.com

Need help with home heating costs? Eligible low-income households in Douglas County may apply for energy assistance through the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP). For more information, to apply online or to find answers to your questions, please visit douglas.co.us and search LEAP. Alyssa Henry and Gina Hochhalter with UCHealth Family Medicine say while stress can impact mood, behavior, anxiety disorders and depression, unchecked stress can lead to a number of physical health concerns such as having a negative impact on the SHUTTERSTOCK cardiovascular system.

Experts speak about managing stress, mental health BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Call it the winter blues, exhaustion from the holiday season, anxiety about tax season or just too much work to do, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety tend to creep up around this time of year and may stem from stress. Whatever the cause, stress involves nearly every system in the body, impacting both mental and physical health. The American Psychological Association defines stress as “a normal reaction to everyday pressures but can become unhealthy when it upsets your day-to-day functioning.” The body often lets us know when we are thirsty, hungry or tired, said Licensed Professional Counselor Alyssa Henry with UCHealth Family Medicine. However, when the body is overwhelmed, overworked or overstressed, the cues tend to be less obvious. Gina Hochhalter, a licensed clinical social worker with UCHealth

Family Medicine, added that the nervous system can be activated under severe stress and when people are in a constant fight-or-flight state, that makes it more difficult to tolerate regular stressors. So, the management of stress is important to overall health, the experts say. Henry and Hochhalter said managing stress helps people maintain overall well-being and can reduce the likelihood of experiencing greater mental health concerns. “Depending on how we act and react to stressors we experience in our lives, it can be perpetuated simply by our sense of being overwhelmed,” said Henry. “Or we can intervene and roll it back and reserve it.”

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Managing stress is an intentional process, said Henry and there are several strategies to reduce stress and promote a sense of calmness. “The way we take care of our body SEE MENTAL HEALTH, P6

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MENTAL HEALTH FROM PAGE 5

impacts the way that we respond to stress,” said Hochhalter. “What we put in our body impacts those things.” Certain nutrients are precursors to neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, also known as the “feel good chemicals,” said Hochhalter. They can play a key role in mood regulation. Diets that are high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains have been associated with lower cortisol levels - which are increased when a person is stressed. Balanced nutrition can help people regulate cortisol production. Balanced meals that include whole grains, beans and oats, protein and healthy fats help regulate blood sugar. “Stable blood sugar levels con-

tribute to consistent energy levels and mood stability,” said Hochhalter. A balanced diet can also impact the gut-brain connection, said Hochhalter, which is the dynamic between the brain and the enteric nervous system. Nutrients that support a healthy gut microbiome may positively influence mood and stress responses. Also, as chronic inflammation is associated with stress-related disorders, certain nutrients have antiinflammatory properties such as omega-3s, vitamin C and fiber-rich foods. Physical activity and mindfulness

Chronic stress can also lead to cognitive changes, which include difficulty concentrating, memory issues, decision making and racing thoughts. A result of this could mean a decreased performance at work or academically. The Journal of Neurobiology of

Learning and Memory found that regular physical activity has improved memory and cognitive function in older adults as physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins and can contribute to a positive or relaxed mood. “Physical activity causes almost an immediate release of ‘feel good’ chemicals,” said Henry. “This actually creates a positive feedback loop.” Activities such as yoga and Tai Chi are mind-body activities that can foster a sense of relaxation, said Henry. “Things that require real focus and attention on not just your physical coordination and ability, but also presence of mind and what you’re doing,” said Henry. “We know that can contribute to a mindful state.” A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that mindfulness-based stress reduction programs reduce anxiety and stress levels. Techniques such as medita-

tion, deep breathing and mindfulness have shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress-related disorders. Henry said that the word “meditation” is used underneath the umbrella of “mindfulness” because mindfulness is a practice or a thing that people have with them whereas meditation is an activity. It’s also important to stay socially active, but remember to set boundaries. Establishing boundaries empowers individuals to assert their needs and desires, said Hochhalter, and that sense of autonomy can lead to increased feelings of control and reduced stress. But, with unexpected circumstances and events, It’s nearly impossible to avoid stress. “One way to mitigate that anxiety or to not get stressed out in the first place is to recognize and accept some of the limitations of our control over the things that happen in the world,” said Henry.

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Lone Tree mayor on future and growth BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In her final “State of the City” address, Lone Tree Mayor Jackie Millet was at the center of a stage that was transformed to look like a pit stop. It was part of a theme called “The Incredible Race Lone Tree” at the Lone Tree Arts Center. “It has been an absolute privilege to have a voice in shaping this community, partnering and collaborating with many of you in this room. You might even say it’s been amazing,” Millet said. Taking cues from “The Amazing Race” reality TV show, Millet took “clues” from a box on stage. She asked the audience Lone Tree trivia questions and presented information and videos highlighting the city’s growth over the years. And she looked forward. Key topics included seeking community input on a city project, efforts to revitalize a commercial area, population growth projections and transportation and public safety developments. Millet also reflected on her 20 years in Lone Tree government, starting with the city’s planning commission from 2004-2008, and then her move to the city council. In 2016, she became mayor. In May, her term ends and the city will have an election to decide her successor. “Thank you for the honor of serving this incredible community,” Millet said. It will be Lone Tree’s first contested race for mayor in about 16 years. Council Member Cathie Frazzini and Mayor Pro Tem Wynne Shaw are also departing as they are term-limited. Lone Tree Elevated project calls for community input

Lone Tree Voice A legal newspaper of general circulation in Lone Tree, Colorado, the Voice is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media, 9233 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree, CO 80124. Send address change to: Lone Tree Voice, 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225, Englewood, CO 80110

Millet encouraged residents to get involved in the city’s “Lone Tree Elevated” project, a planning initiative that will help guide future growth and development for the next 20 years. The project seeks to create a new comprehensive plan and rewrite the city’s land use code. “We’d love you to be part of our process and give us your input on what you think the city should prioritize,” Millet said. The city will host an open house at the Lone Tree Arts Center on Feb. 21 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Revitalizing city’s ‘Entertainment District’

A goal for Lone Tree is to revitalize its “Entertainment District” area, which is roughly 67 acres of land near South Yosemite Street and C-470. Demolition in the district will be a catalyst for renovation and redevelopment, Millet said. “This is the oldest commercial area within the City of Lone Tree,” Millet said. “Unfortunately, challenges associated with aging and obsolescence with some of the buildings and infrastructure have created some challenges like increased vacancy rates, deterioration in appearances and varied property ownership.” In December, the city council established an “urban renewal authority,” which Millet said will allow the city to unlock the full redevelopment potential of the entertainment district. Several properties are already being transformed, she said. The former Mimi’s restaurant location, for example, was demolished last April and the new property owner has submitted a plan to the city for a new restaurant concept. Another transformation has been the former Treõ At Lone Tree property, located at the corner of Yosemite Street and Maximus Drive. In November, the city purchased the vacant property for $3.85 million. “The building was vacant for over 14 years, and we received a significant number of complaints from our residents,” she said. Following the city’s purchase, the city “immediately got to work on redevelopment efforts,” including hosting a demolition event several weeks ago, she said. Most of the building is now gone, she said. A city staff report said the intention is for the city to ultimately sell or lease the property to a restaurant or entertainment-focused business. Millet said the city has received a dozen-or-so proposals for the site and are working through them. City population expected to more than double in next 20 years

Lone Tree’s population is expected to more than double in the years ahead. It will go from roughly 15,000 residents in 2023 to between 40,000 residents and 60,000 residents in 2053, according to Millet’s presentation. The employment population is pro-

jected to double, going from 25,000 people in 2023 to 50,000 people in 2053. A main reason for the projected boost is the build-out of RidgeGate East, a planned development east of Interstate 25 and south of Lincoln Avenue. Upcoming developments include a Lone Tree City Center, three residential villages, an 80-acre regional park, commercial districts and schools. “Residents started moving into the area last year and we’re looking forward to businesses joining them soon,” Millet said. The first residential village, called “Lyric” by Shea Homes, is well under way, she said. A breadth of housing options will be available, including Lone Tree’s first condo development in more than a decade and some affordable housing projects. Improving Lincoln Avenue

One of the transportation-focused projects for Lone Tree is a new mobility hub, which will be along I-25 just south of the Lincoln Avenue interchange, Millet said. It will consist of constructing slip ramps along the I-25 northbound off-ramp and southbound on-ramp for use by Bustang transit services, a pedestrian bridge connecting the two transit stops, and sidewalks, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Construction is anticipated to start this year. “We also consider the mobility hub phase one of the Advancing Lincoln Avenue project,” Millet said. “This $120 million initiative relies on collaboration with our regional and state partners at Douglas County, Denver South, DRCOG (Denver Regional Council of Governments) and CDOT to develop a long-term solution to address safety and mobility needs at the Lincoln and I-25 interchange,” she added. The Advancing Lincoln Avenue project involves critically looking at Lincoln Avenue between Oswego Street and Park Meadows Drive, aiming to reduce traffic congestion, enhance multimodal mobility and improve safety for commuters. Traffic volumes in the Lincoln Avenue corridor have increased by 50% since 2012, according to one of the project documents, and future projected traffic demands were expected to exceed current roadway capacity.

February 8, 2024

Questions linger over Yosemite waterline break BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The reason why a recently-replaced waterline in Lone Tree broke is still unknown, but officials say they do not have concerns about any future breaks. Emergency and the city public works crews responded to the break on Yosemite Street and Kimmer Drive shortly after 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 21. The break impacted traffic for several days as crews responded to damage. The northbound lanes on Yosemite were closed beginning at Lone Tree Parkway, and southbound drivers were confined to a single lane of traffic. The night of Jan. 24, the city said

contractors completed waterline repairs and repaving of Yosemite Street, and the northbound and southbound lanes re-opened. However, Southgate Water and Sanitation Districts is still unsure what caused the break, according to General Manager David Irish. “There is no clear cause for the break,” he said in a statement. “Consulting engineers and the pipe manufacturer are currently investigating.” The line was under warranty and all costs are being paid by the contractor, he said. Irish said the waterline was recently replaced as part of Southgate’s 2023 Yosemite Street waterline replacement project, which involved replacing large segments of the wa-

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dence that the Southgate Water and Sanitation Districts are in full compliance with all regulations and have the resources to operate, maintain, repair, and replace the systems as needed,” Irish said. In a statement, the City of Lone Tree said that, at this time, it does not have a reason to believe this was more than an isolated incident. During a city event on Jan. 30, Mayor Jackie Millet briefly spoke about the waterline break. “Unfortunately, we had … a bad pipe, and our great partners at Southgate got it back up and running as quickly as possible,” Millet said. “Please be patient with us because it was a temporary patch, and when the weather gets a little nicer, we’re gonna have to rebuild that road.”

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Mailer credits commissioners for cut in property tax rate where their money goes and how the county is trying to help them mitigate the impact of the (tax increase)?” Holmes said. “Yes, we do.”

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

It’s that time of year. Property tax bills will arrive in the mail in early February. But Douglas County homeowners might find something extra in their mailboxes. The county is sending out postcards calling attention to the county commissioners’ move to cut the property tax rate for this year. The three elected leaders “will be returning a historic $37.8 million in tax relief to all Douglas County property owners without a reduction in County services,” the postcard claims. It also seeks to convey a not-so-obvious truth about paying property taxes: Even though the county sends the bill, not all the money goes to county government. Officials wanted homeowners to know where else their money goes — including to the school district, firefighting districts and other types of local government agencies that may have the option to adjust their own tax rates. The effort comes amid a steep spike in property taxes and contains a more overt political message. “Property tax relief and reform is needed in Colorado. Join us. Stay involved. The fight is not over,” the postcard reads. The county’s three elected commissioners — Republicans Abe Laydon, George Teal and Lora Thomas — signed it. It also has a photo of the group. The postcard costs the county about $65,000 to print and mail to homeowners.

‘It’s their money’

A screenshot of the postcard Douglas County is sending property owners, expected SCREENSHOT OF PDF FROM DOUGLAS COUNTY to arrive in early February.

It comes in a political climate where in recent years Gov. Jared Polis and former President Donald Trump received criticism for placing their names alongside checks the government sent to residents — though unlike in those situations, the commissioners were directly responsible for approving the relief. The tax cut the Douglas County postcard refers to will arrive as a refund check in coming months. And Teal, chairman of the commissioners, is one of the officials whose name will be on the checks. Teal and Thomas are running in elections this year. Teal is campaigning to keep his seat as commissioner and Thomas wants to represent Highlands Ranch in the state Capitol. The move to make the tax relief decision more visible strikes state Rep. Bob Marshall, a Democrat and Thomas’ opponent, as running counter to a

conservative reputation. He criticized the expense of the mailers. “Using $65,000 of taxpayer money for the sole purpose to call attention to yourself in an election year is certainly not a wise use of public funds,” Marshall said. “And it is diametrically opposed to any claim to good governance or fiscal conservatism.” Teal maintains the move wasn’t political. “I was just focused on doing all we could to (provide) the most effective tax relief,” Teal said. ‘It’s not ours’

A county spokesperson contends the mailer is merely an extension of a monthslong effort — in town hall meetings, videos and public statements — to educate people about the property tax process and finding relief. It’s also an attempt to put things into perspective for upset residents who see taxes as too high, according to Wendy Holmes, county spokesperson. “The calls come in to the commissioners: ‘How can you do this? How could you do this to us? Why would you need this much money?’ It’s not ours. We don’t keep it,” Holmes said, referring to the process of distributing much of the property tax revenue to other agencies. The mailer directs people to the website for the county’s property valuation office — douglas.co.us/assessor — so they can learn which local agencies serve their homes and what percentage of their taxes the county keeps. Asked about the cost, Holmes said the $64,700 paid for about 120,000 mailers, working out to pennies apiece. “Do we think it’s worth 54 cents a household to help people understand

Another wrinkle in the tax relief process in Douglas County is the commissioners’ decision to collect the full tax owed and then issue a refund check in the coming months rather than reducing the tax bills up front. Though it wasn’t his call, Toby Damisch, who heads the county’s property valuation office, supported the refund check approach. “With the credit (approach), very few people knew about it and even fewer understood it. And that had been done by this board for years,” said Damisch, the county assessor, referring to prior Douglas tax relief. “With the rebate (check), everyone knows exactly what was done, how much and when.” Teal, the commissioner, said given the size of the property tax increase this year, it’s important to “put the taxpayer in charge of the tax relief with a tax refund.” “That way they could decide for themselves how to apply it,” Teal said. “People like me will pay down their escrow. Others may do something else. That’s their choice. It was important to me to give them that choice. It’s their money.” County officials worried that the public would be less aware of the tax relief if it was applied to tax bills as a credit. Asked whose name will be on the refund checks, county officials said in a statement: “Per statute 30-25-110, the Board Chair (George Teal) and County Clerk and Recorder (Sheri Davis) sign checks issued by the County.” Douglas County’s refund will send residential property owners $190 back on average. Thomas objected to the idea that the postcard is politically motivated. “Not everyone reads (the) paper, engages in our town halls or listens to the radio or watches TV, but everyone gets mail in their mailbox,” Thomas said. “This is the last-ditch effort by our commissioners … to reach our taxpayers about what’s being done on this issue.” For a look at how the 2023 property values and state and local tax relief affected this year’s tax bills compared to last year’s, see Colorado Community Media’s previous coverage at tinyurl. com/DouglasPropertyTaxExplain.

February 8, 2024

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The joy of serving others

he business trip was already long and then further elongated and somewhat chaotic because of the weather that had descended upon the country. Paul was left stranded in the city he was visiting for business as all the flights had been canceled and the best they could do was get him out four days later. The drive from where he was to where he lived was 20 hours, and although it would be cold and a little snowy as most of the storm had already moved eastward, he decided to keep his rental car and make the drive home. Because of the weather and road conditions, the drive took longer than he had thought, forcing him to stay overnight in a hotel. As he resumed the drive, it was not getting much better. After 28 hours he finally arrived at the airport where he had left his car. He dropped off the rental car and took the shuttle back to the terminal parking where he could pick up his own car and get on the final leg of the journey toward home. Worn out, he began the 35-minute drive home.

About halfway home Paul passed an older woman on the side of the road with a flat tire. He drove by, but within 10 seconds he felt the urge to turn around and help. He pulled up behind her car and she greeted him with a warm hello. Turns Michael Norton out she didn’t have a cell phone and no one else had stopped by yet. It was freezing, he was still in his business attire, and he asked her if she had a spare tire. She opened the trunk and indeed there was a spare. He located the jack, crawled under the car, setting the jack in place, and within 10 minutes he had successfully changed her tire. She offered him a few dollars, but he wouldn’t accept it, he wished her well and got back on his way. Turns out that it was also Paul’s birthday and his family had been waiting to celebrate it with him. He was more than a day late, he was ex-

WINNING WORDS

hausted, a little wet and dirty from changing that tire in the slushy snow, and he came to tears at the sight of his family around the kitchen table with gifts, a cold beer, and big smiles and hugs waiting for him. When they looked at him and noticed his condition they asked what had happened to him and his clothes. When he finished telling his family the story, he shared with me that he felt like the greatest birthday gift he had been given was that God had placed him exactly where he was supposed to be on that road, at that time, to help that woman. He also shared that he had never experienced such joy as being given the opportunity to serve another human being that way. He had volunteered often, helped out friends and family, but the experience and feeling of helping a total stranger in a time of need created a sense of joy that he will never forget. How many times have we driven by someone stuck on the side of the road? Even if we didn’t feel like we had the skills or tools to help, did we pull over and call to let the police

know there was someone stuck on the highway? In the current state of the world that we live in, it is so easy for us to only think about others serving us, how can they take care of us better, how can they give us white-glove service. And if we do not receive it, we can even become indignant. When Paul shared his story with me, I could hear it in his words, it was true joy found in serving others. There is that saying that it is better to give than to receive, have you considered what it might feel like to serve others, especially a complete and total stranger? If you have, did the feeling of joy enter your mind? I would love to hear your story or other stories like this one at gotonorton@gmail.com, and when we can find the joy in serving others, 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.

A new look at a new year

hat a difference a year makes! While 2022 was horrible for many investors, 2023 showed a considerable rebound for equity asset classes. Investors who stayed focused on their goals and strategy should have been rewarded. Those who sold out and did not buy back in before the recovery will be hard pressed to find a reasonable return. The adage “It’s about time in the market, not timing the market” certainly held true this past year. Last year was all about the Federal Reserve, and there will be a lot to learn from the Fed in 2024 as well, but rapidly rising interest rates along with the threat of recession created a choppy but positive market in 2023. Now for 2024, there are several potential outcomes in the tea

leaves but more good news than bad, according to Jeff Krumpelman, CFA.1 He recommends looking at the facts, not the headlines. The key metrics of inflation trends, revenues, earnings, and interest rates support Patricia Kummer positive returns and are trending in the right direction. However, it is important to avoid whiplash when there is shortterm volatility. Economic growth is expected to slow as inflation comes down. If the Fed hits its target, then watch for it to pivot from tightening to easing. The consumer continues to spend and will likely increase purchases

FINANCIAL STRATEGIES

as inflation comes down a bit.2 There are always potential risks, such as this being an election year. There is still a shadow of a possibility of a recession, but that will likely trigger the Fed to cut rates sooner if it does materialize. Lower interest rates should help bond prices recover and equities are expected to be favorable. Especially for those stocks that remain undervalued. I suspect that this will be a pivotable year for inflation to calm, interest rates to reverse, and recession worries to abate. Therefore, the investor can expect continued volatility but could be rewarded for creating and sticking to a strategy that matches the time frame of your goals. Designing custom portfolios this year will be crucial for investors, especially if you were able to tax-loss

harvest last year. You have a clean slate to begin a new strategy in the new year that fits with your financial plan. Don’t wait to get in front of your advisor. Plan well while the year is young. Fourth-quarter earnings season is here, and many yearend numbers and current-year forecasts will hit the charts. It is best to be prepared when this information becomes available and provides potential opportunities. 1 Jeff Krumpelman is chief investment strategist and head of equities at Mariner Wealth Advisors 2 JP Morgan 2024 Outlook Patricia Kummer has been a Certified Financial Planner professional and a fiduciary for over 37 years and is managing director for Mariner Wealth Advisors, an SEC Registered Investment Adviser.

February 8, 2024

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Check out Castle Rock Band

Thank you for Tayler Shaw’s article about metro-area community orchestras in your Jan. 25 edition. It’s good to be reminded of the wonderful cultural resources that bring our communities together, and the enthusiastic volunteers who keep local arts organizations thriving. As the article indicates, there are few experiences more rewarding than being part of a musical ensemble. Opportunities for amateur musicians to participate are plentiful in the metro area. Brass, woodwind, and percussion players who are hesitant to audition may be interested to know that the Castle Rock Band welcomes all players — no auditions required. 2024 rehearsals begin in March. Learn more at castlerockband.org or facebook.com/CastleRockTownBand. Erica Stull, Parker More Teal divisiveness

A smidgen of misdirection with DougCo Commissioner George Teal’s use of the BoCC pulpit to pull religion into his campaign for the November 2024 election. After all, Teal’s political ploy to plaque “In God We Trust” really says, “Look at me! Another opportunity to drive divisiveness! Maybe I’ll get a few libs along the way! Maybe a few more will vote for me.” Yes, in keeping with his longstanding political style, Teal manages to change the context, coating his religion with attention-grabbing divisiveness. But Teal’s real politics can’t fit on a wall plaque, and that’s too bad for George and the BoCC. You see, they don’t want us to be sidetracked by the realization Douglas County’s budget is increasing by 11.3% ($27.1m) this year. They don’t want us to recall the tens-of-thousands they have spent on their internal jousting. They don’t want us to pay attention to the fact that most county citizen committees are packed with white men over the age of 50, with longstanding Republican Party patronage. Just take a peek at the new Water Commission. Back to the plaque. When Teal states, “I think the people of Douglas County do believe,” he’s probably alluding to people like those on county committees. Lloyd Guthrie, Roxborough Park

Make the choice for good

We are part of something larger than ourselves. Each of our individual actions affect those around us and, ultimately, ripple out to all the people. We have a responsibility to pave a good path for future generations, to honor our ancestors, to practice reciprocity, and to understand the ripple effect our behavior has on the world. Can collective well-being be our intention? Health of the self contributes to the health of the whole. It would shift our communities if we could embrace the desire to nurture our collective healing and growth through gracefilled, non-judgmental noticing and self-love. It’s a practice and it can be hard and it’s not usually our default. Your wellness supports my wellness because we are connected. Everyone has a story and everyone we meet has something to teach us if we are open to learning. What if we centered the greatest good, doing no harm, shifting our responsibility to being well not just for ourselves but for our community? This requires patience and repetition. I like the idea of celebrating healing and growth and celebrating each other’s gifts with the collective greatest good in mind. If we are willing to have a growth mindset, willing to heal, willing to be uncomfortable, then the next generations will benefit from the work we do for the collective good. Your healing and my healing create ripples. Our wellness affects the health of the world. Becca Jay, Roxborough Wall collapse shows town problems

It was extremely difficult to see the wall on Scileppi’s, at the Old Stone Church, ruined by excavating next to old footings. Where were the building inspectors? Why wasn’t it shored? The constant building in downtown shows a lack of respect for the quality of life that many residents moved here for. I left an email earlier questioning why the Castle Rock Town Council will build on every square inch of Castle Rock, while not protecting old treasures such as the Old Stone Church, which was built 136 years ago. SEE LETTERS, P20

Memory In Loving

Place an Obituary for Your Loved One. 303-566-4100 obituaries@coloradocommunitymedia.com Self placement available online at HighlandsRanchHerald.net LoneTreeVoice.net

February 8, 2024F

Ryane Rose, an experienced artist and owner of the Wolf Den Custom Tattoo Shop, laughs with a client in their PHOTO BY ELISABETH SLAY shop located at 6640 E. Colfax Ave.

How local shops are shifting the culture in the Denver-area tattoo scene BY ELISABETH SLAY ESLAY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

rmed with steady hands and lamps strapped to their craniums, many female, non-binary and queer tattoo artists utilize their passion, personalities and perseverance to bring art to life, all the while shifting the culture of the Denver-area tattoo scene. ‘If you build it, they will come’

Owner of the Wolf Den Custom Tattoo Studio Ryane Rose said they built their shop, located at 6640 E Colfax Ave. in Denver, about seven years ago. “It kind of came about by working at shop after shop that just kind of created an environment that didn’t feel as welcoming by default,” Rose said. Rose said the culture was “masculine-driven” which isn’t a bad thing, but can leave “little room for other people to be expressive or exist.”

“So I think that’s where the toxic part of the culture came in. It was more suffocating than inviting,” Rose said. They said they kept trying to find a studio that would support a welcoming and accepting mentality but couldn’t. Thus the Wolf Den was born. The 37-year-old thought it would be difficult to find a complete staff of queer, non-binary or female tattoo artists. However, “if you build it they will come right,” Rose said. “This entire seven years my inbox has been flooded with women and non-binary humans that have constantly reached out to work here with the same exact story,” Rose said. The wolf pack

One woman was artist Meghan Donohue, who works with Rose as their apprentice. Originally from Massachusetts, Donohue moved to Denver about a year and a half ago to

become a tattoo artist. She said she found the Wolf Den online. Donohue’s favorite aspect of the Den is the experience it provides both artists and clients. “It’s a place where we all really can emphasize our own strengths,” Donohue said. “The artists that work here all share a common strength of people skills which is something a lot of tattoo artists lack in the industry.” The 25-year-old said she is still determining her style as a tattoo artist but she is versatile in that she does illustrative, realistic and fine line pieces. Rose describes their style as a wide range because they love creating watercolor, fine line, geometric and abstract pieces. They also love the one-to-one connection with their clients. “You get to take this concept that represents something that they value and then you get to give it a heartbeat collectively,” Rose said. SEE SHIFTING CULTURE, P15

February 8, 2024

SHIFTING CULTURE FROM PAGE 14

For Rose, the best aspect of the Wolf Den is the energy they’ve curated with their staff. “We all genuinely care about each other and that’s a hard one in shops too because the culture really does drive in ‘You need to care for yourself,”’ Rose said. “If another artist takes art from you they’re taking food from you essentially.” The name for their tattoo shop was inspired by an animal where females are the alphas and the group acts as a family. “I wanted a wolf pack,” Rose said. “I wanted people who took care of each other. We’re all stronger together and we can all eat together.” Macy Zerbe, 26, became a member of the pack in June 2023 and they said they love the “chill vibe” at the Den. “I feel everybody is pretty about community and making a welcoming space that tattoo shops don’t always have,” Zerbe said. Rose runs their business with their wife Jess Rose, who handles the day-to-day operation of the shop and elevates the business. “When you’re in love and that person is your partner and your soul mate they’re going to enrich your life in every single aspect,” Rose said. “So the Den is no exception. She brings a perspective from a stylistic point of view.” Jess is a leather artist and along with her own business, she said her role in the pack is the “lady behind the scenes making things happen.” “When I met Ryane, I saw their vision and I knew where they wanted to take it,” Jess said. “I definitely feel like I am always here to see those visions through.” Jess said there are various ways the Wolf Den is shifting the industry from its representation to its atmosphere and products. “Already (Ryane was) changing the industry by creating a space where there was an owner that was far different than a heterosexual white male owning a shop,” Jess said. Mele Lucero is another member and tattoo artist in the pack and she said she loves making “weird trippy” pieces. Lucero said the Den is unique in that she is supported as a female tattoo artist by her peers and mentors. “They just want you to grow,” Lucero said. “I felt like with my old (shop) it was like a debt to be owed to them and then coming to the Wolf Den they just continue to push me and grow my style and (to) just be me.” Jess said the Den provides eco-friendly products which isn’t common in other shops. Ryane said the shop is 90% plastic-free, but there’s a goal to up that another 5%. Going forward, Rose said they hope to both maintain the stability of the Den and continue to grow its presence.

Meghan Donohue, a 25-year-old apprentice at the Wolf Den Custom Tattoo Shop, works on her latest creation.

Bird’s Nest

Striving to also provide a different atmosphere for their clients and fellow creators is tattoo artist Lora Bird. Bird created the Nest Art Collective, located at 7460 W 38th Ave. in Wheat Ridge, which is a space for queer, femme, nonbinary or neurodivergent artists and clients alike. “I would describe it as a haven for people who need a little bit more accommodation during their appointment,” Bird said. “We do our best to make sure everybody has the right lighting, the right sound level, the right privacy to feel as comfortable as possible during a pretty uncomfortable procedure.” SEE SHIFTING CULTURE, P16

Mele Lucero sits at her station in the Wolf Den Custom Tattoo Shop where she creates “weird PHOTOS BY ELISABETH SLAY trippy tattoos” for clients.

February 8, 2024Fe

SHIFTING CULTURE FROM PAGE 15

Bird was searching for a space that would support them as an artist and accommodate their needs as a neurodivergent person. “The shop that I learned in was a very open space, which there is nothing wrong with that and some people thrive in that environment, but with me having ADHD and newly diagnosed autism, it ended up being a little bit harder for me to focus on the art and my client,” Bird said. The tattoo artist of six years said the chaos of the shop was overwhelming. “I wanted to work in a space where I was able to control the environment a little more and after searching around through some studios and keeping my eyes peeled for someplace I wanted to work I realized that doesn’t really exist,” Bird said. Therefore, Bird built the Nest from the ground up. Bird was inspired to model their shop after a “salon suite” which they worked in for about a year. Bird explained a salon suite is a rented amount of space with pods of individual businesses such as a hair salon, a nail salon and makeup artist. The Nest opened its doors in 2021 and Bird said at the moment, the shop is full of artists who all have their own space. Additionally, Bird said while artists technically work for them, the artists are in charge of their own booking, scheduling, pricing and setting up their rooms. “They are all individual business owners and they really do find and work with people that want to work with them which is just such a wonderful thing in tattooing,” Bird said. “They curate the space to be comfortable for them and by proxy it’s comfortable for their clients.” Izzy Bump, creator of large colorful botanical tat-

Meghan Donohue works on a flower back tattoo for one of her clients. The 25-year-old is completing an apprenticeship at the Wolf Den Custom Tattoo Shop. PHOTO BY ELISABETH SLAY

toos, said she enjoys being in control of her own business and ethical choices. The artist said the best aspect of the Nest is that it’s a supportive space where the artists care about their work, each other and clients. “We all have more than enough clients to go around and because we’re not competing with each other and because we all do care about each other and our community there’s a lot of helping each other and lifting each other up,” Bump said. Bird describes their art style as illustrative woodcut which is similar to “old medieval etchings.” Bird said they feel like they’re flipping the “traditional idea of tattooing” with the Nest and shifting the industry from sole artist control to clientfriendly. Tattoo artist and 29-year-old Mikayla Riley said there are so many aspects that she loves about the

Nest, the biggest being the sense of community. “I think it’s very unique in that tattooing, like so many industries, is traditionally so male-dominated and lots of people have not been welcomed in this industry in the past, and here we’re so far in the opposite direction,” Riley said. “Anyone is welcome here to get a tattoo.” Bird said all 13 people in the Nest “gel well” together regardless of their different personalities and styles. “The overarching take here is in my mind this newer generation of tattoo artists is just more kind,” Bird said. Going forward, Bird hopes to “ride out this thing” they built and just see what happens next. “It really is currently my life’s work and I would rather just maybe not push for more and just enjoy what I have,” Bird said.

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SPORTS

Parker native leads effort to save lacrosse program Ponderosa alum, 63,000 signatures fight for team’s legitimacy, conference standing BY JOHN RENFROW JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Although Caleb Buddington didn’t play lacrosse until he was a sophomore at Ponderosa High School, the Parker native quickly showed a strong talent for the sport. He even leveraged his skills into a Division II future at Colorado State UniversityPueblo. But on Jan. 19, he got bad news. Buddington and his team were told 2024 would be the team’s last season in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. And worse, men’s lacrosse would no longer be a varsity sport for CSU-Pueblo — it would be a club sport going forward. “It was a Friday morning, we got out of practice and had a meeting with the athletic department,” Buddington said. “Nobody knew what it was. We got out of practice and went to this meeting. They basically told us that they were cutting our program. They gave us a bunch of different reasons, but none of them necessarily seemed to add up based on all the research we’ve done over the

past week and a half.” Buddington said he and some teammates looked into it, and the decision was made much earlier than the department let on. “This decision was signed off on in June of 2023,” Buddington alleged. “But we were told that the decision was made final a week before they told us, and that proved to be untrue. It felt like a stab in the back, especially with the timing of it all. It was a week before our first scrimmage, 11 days before our first game. I mean, they signed off on this and then allowed us to recruit a whole freshman class plus a transfer from New York and a transfer from New Zealand.” Colorado Community Media reached out to CSU-Pueblo athletics and they were not immediately prepared to comment on the timing of the decision. Buddington didn’t wait to take action. Two days later he and his teammates launched a petition to save the team on Change.org. So far, it has garnered more than 63,000 signatures and is currently the fourth-largest petition on the website in 2024, according to Christina Martin, senior communications specialist for the site. “We thought it would be a good idea to get the word out and get support from other people,” Buddington said. “A lot of people donated money to that petition to promote it. The money is used to promote the peti-

Caleb Buddington, a player on CSU-Pueblo’s men’s lacrosse team, is from Parker and COURTESY PHOTO went to Ponderosa High School.

tion and get views on it. I think those promotions started to kick in and that’s why there are so many signatures on it, which is awesome.” But it’s bigger than just CSU-Pueblo lacrosse; the ThunderWolves’ departure will affect the entire Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

This season, the RMAC welcomed Concordia University Irvine from California into the conference, and next season will add the Dominican University of California. Starting in 2025, the conference SEE LACROSSE, P19

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would have had six teams, enough for the conference winner to earn a bid in the NCAA tourney automatically. “Now with the cutting of our program, the RMAC isn’t eligible for that anymore,” Buddington said. “So, I think a big reason for that petition as well was to get the word out to the RMAC and other teams in the RMAC like, ‘Hey, this doesn’t only affect us, but now all of us aren’t eligible for the NCAA tournament.’” The petition aims to gather pushback and community support, he said, but he knows that won’t be enough to change the department’s mind. Buddington and his teammates met with the Pueblo City Council on Jan. 23 and there are plans to try and get the state on board with the players’ case.

As the program hangs in the balance, Buddington and his teammates still have a season to play. He said it’s been difficult to focus on just lacrosse at this point, but the team will compete as always and make the most of 2024. “When it happened, you had kids hop in the transfer portal right away,” Buddington said. “Especially sophomores and freshmen who still have two or three years of eligibility left. So it’s definitely hard to try and put our heads back down and focus when we know all these kids who are our teammates are trying to be recruited to play somewhere else. But there’s also a silver lining to it. We have nothing to lose and everything to prove. Let’s go out and show them they made a mistake.” The team became home for Buddington after high school. “CSU-Pueblo offered me a PWO (preferred walk-on) my senior year, which basically means you’re guaranteed a roster spot,” Buddington

said. “So that was awesome, especially with how late I started playing. Just to have a spot on a college team was pretty cool.” According to CSU-Pueblo athletics, the decision does not affect the women’s lacrosse program or any other varsity sport. Additionally, the site states that all scholarship-eligible student athletes affected by the decision will have their financial aid honored until they depart or graduate from CSUPueblo. If a student athlete chooses to transfer after the season, NCAA rules will permit them to play immediately without penalty. “After an extensive review and careful analysis of our strategic initiatives within the landscape of college athletics, we have made the difficult decision to transition men’s lacrosse to club status following the 2024 season,” CSU-Pueblo Vice President for Athletics and Strategic Partnerships Paul Plinske said in a statement. “We want all student ath-

letes to have the most competitive experience possible and feel that men’s lacrosse at the club level is the best place for us.” Plinske continued: “We are fully committed to putting our student athletes and their needs first. In this case, CSU Pueblo will continue to provide support to every men’s lacrosse player during this transition period. Student athletes were notified before the start of the season to ensure they have the time to consider all options while having our resources available to support them ... Once the season is complete, equipment and gear that the student athletes were provided at the varsity level will be retained for their future use.” To support CSU-Pueblo men’s lacrosse, consider signing and donating to the team’s petition change. org. This story will be updated if and when Colorado Community Media receives a comment from CSU-Pueblo athletics.

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LETTERS

Planning Commission, and the Design Review Board, and the administration need to be much more responsive to citizens’ concerns. Dave Martin, Castle Rock

FROM PAGE 13

Massive apartments are being built on existing streets such as Wilcox and Jerry, with very little upgrades in infrastructure. Water is such a concern that council will approve new developments with extreme restrictions for watering, yet every new development is approved. Even by the administration’s own admission there is already almost a billion dollars worth of bonds due for different developments with this town. Parking is a major concern, and is projected to only get worse. Finally, the once beautiful town was highly rated by many publications, such as US News, Forbes, and Money magazine. Currently only livability.com rates it at #94. Is it correct that the Design Review Board approves downtown projects, while three of the seven members don’t actually reside in Castle Rock? The Castle Rock Council, the

Do your part for art

I greatly enjoyed “Bringing New Life To Music” published on January 25, 2024 that highlighted orchestras in Jefferson County, Littleton and Lone Tree. These communities and others in metro Denver are truly blessed with numerous opportunities to participate in and attend performing arts groups. I have sung with the Cherry Creek Chorale for over 40 years for the same reasons that were named by instrumentalists in the Jan. 25th article. The tag line for this volunteer choir is “Creating Community, Artistry and Excellence.” Communities thrive when arts are available. I encourage all residents to attend and support the arts groups in and around their areas. Also, let’s continue to support the arts in our schools so that they flourish

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Restoring local history a sign of the times BY ELLE NAEF ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

“Booger Red,” Lakewood’s antique fire truck needed a make-over before going on public view as part of the permanent exhibit at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park’s 20th century museum. The wording on the side of the truck’s red doors had faded and needed to be restored according to the time period and font style of the 1930s, when it was first commissioned. Prior to Lakewood being incorporated as a City (in 1969) Lakewood’s first fire station was originally located on West Colfax Avenue near Wadsworth and was built in 1938. Booger Red was the first firetruck purchased from local business support and an annual Fireman’s Ball. From their home garage in the suburbs, the Polzin family–father Larry

Jess and Sarah complete “Booger Red’s” doors in the family garage-turned-shop.

and daughters Jess and Sarah– who produce and restore iconic, vintage signs from around Colorado, stepped in. Their business, Stargazer Creations, is one of the few to use hand-drawn painting methods that were most recently put to use restoring the truck’s antique fire doors. “When we first talked with the City of Lakewood about their firetruck I envisioned a turn of the century beauty with pinstripes and gold leaf and ‘fadoozles’ all over its shiny red paint job,” said Larry Polzin. “When we actually saw the truck, we were brought back to reality, as this wasn’t a ‘classic showboat’ but a work horse that had been driven hard and probably had some amazing tales attached to it,” he said. Restoring the truck meant removing

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the doors and taking them to the garage workshop, matching the specific hue of the antique red and imitating the original font’s drop-shadow lettering. “This font was not in our vast library, so we had to rely on the tiniest hints of its existence still left on the door and replicate it based on what remained,” said Jess Polzin of restoring the truck. The family focuses on antique sign restoration, pictorial murals — such as the animals on the Denver Purina factories — as well as fiber art and commercial commissions. They hand paint all their pieces, and utilize other skills that are becoming more rare such as embellishments using real gold leaf. A longtime sign maker and artist, Polzin launched the business with his two daughters in 2007 in honor of his son, John, who passed away that year. “He was enigmatic, and had an in-

credible passion for life,” Jess Polzin said of her brother. Through their work focusing on the handcrafting of signs, rather than through mass-production, the Polzins hope to bring art into the every day. “It’s got the imperfections of the artist in it. Art doesn’t have to be perfect,” said Jess Polzin. “I think people really like to see things that remind them of a human connection. That’s the most important thing,” she said. As for Booger–so called because it was “a ‘booger’ to drive,” according to Betsy Bowers, who commissioned the truck’s restoration for Lakewood–it will make special appearances at Heritage Lakewood Belmar, and will next be on display at the Annual Rockin’ Block party in June. Visitors can also request to see the truck be viewed as requested at the museum’s private tours. This story comes via The Associated Press’ Storyshare, of which Colorado Community Media is a member.

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February 8, 2024

SERVICE DIRECTORY Tile

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February 8, 2024

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 Legals Public Trustees PUBLIC NOTICE Highlands Ranch NOTICE OF SALE Public Trustee Sale No. 2023-0193 To Whom It May Concern: On 11/28/2023 9:05:00 AM the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in Douglas County. Original Grantor: NADIA E. ALONSO Original Beneficiary: BELLCO CREDIT UNION Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: BELLCO CREDIT UNION Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 9/17/2021 Recording Date of DOT: 9/23/2021 Reception No. of DOT: 2021109370 DOT Recorded in Douglas County. Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $76,500.00 Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $77,379.43 Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-38-101 (4) (i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Borrower's failure to make timely payments as required under the Evidence of Debt and Deed of Trust. THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN. The property described herein is all of the property encumbered by the lien of the deed of trust. Legal Description of Real Property: LOT 290, HIGHLANDS RANCH - FILING NO. 122-G, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO. Which has the address of: 10334 Hunterwood Way, Highlands Ranch, CO 80130 NOTICE OF SALE The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust. THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the Public Trustee’s office, Philip S Miller Building Hearing Room, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, I will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. If the sale date is continued to a later date, the deadline to file a notice of intent to cure by those parties entitled to cure may also be extended. First Publication: 1/25/2024 Last Publication: 2/22/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press Dated: 11/28/2023 DAVID GILL DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee

The name, address and telephone numbers of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: ALISON L. BERRY Colorado Registration #: 34531 9540 MAROON CIRCLE SUITE 320, ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO 80112 Phone #: (303) 706-9990 Fax #: (303) 706-9994 Attorney File #: 23-030797 *YOU MAY TRACK FORECLOSURE SALE DATES on the Public Trustee website: https:// www.douglas.co.us/public-trustee/ Legal Notice No. 2023-0193 First Publication: 1/25/2024 Last Publication: 2/22/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press PUBLIC NOTICE Littleton NOTICE OF SALE Public Trustee Sale No. 2023-0198 To Whom It May Concern: On 11/28/2023 9:26:00 AM the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in Douglas County. Original Grantor: Ha Nguyen and Nang Long Original Beneficiary: Credit Union of Colorado Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: Credit Union of Colorado Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 6/7/2022 Recording Date of DOT: 6/13/2022 Reception No. of DOT: 2022041713 DOT Recorded in Douglas County. Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $195,000.00 Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $195,252.62 Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-38-101 (4) (i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: the failure to make installment payments of principal, interest, taxes and/or insurance as provided for in the Revolving Credit Deed of Trust and Credit Agreement. THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN. The property described herein is all of the property encumbered by the lien of the deed of trust. Legal Description of Real Property: Lot 177, Highlands Ranch Filing No. 122-G, County of Douglas, State of Colorado Which has the address of: 4575 Hunterwood Drive, Littleton, CO 80130 NOTICE OF SALE The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust. THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the Public Trustee’s office, Philip S Miller Building Hearing Room, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, I will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as

legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com

provided by law. If the sale date is continued to a later date, the deadline to file a notice of intent to cure by those parties entitled to cure may also be extended. First Publication: 1/25/2024 Last Publication: 2/22/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press Dated: 11/28/2023 DAVID GILL DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee The name, address and telephone numbers of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: IMAN TEHRANI Colorado Registration #: 44076 514 KIMBARK STREET: P.O. BOX 298 , LONGMONT, COLORADO 80502-0298 Phone #: Fax #: Attorney File #: Long

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at the Public Trustee’s office, Philip S Miller Building Hearing Room, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, I will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. If the sale date is continued to a later date, the deadline to file a notice of intent to cure by those parties entitled to cure may also be extended. First Publication: 2/8/2024 Last Publication: 3/7/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press

*YOU MAY TRACK FORECLOSURE SALE DATES on the Public Trustee website: https:// www.douglas.co.us/public-trustee/

Dated: 12/7/2023 DAVID GILL DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee

Legal Notice No. 2023-0198 First Publication: 1/25/2024 Last Publication: 2/22/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press

The name, address and telephone numbers of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

PUBLIC NOTICE Highlands Ranch NOTICE OF SALE Public Trustee Sale No. 2023-0204 To Whom It May Concern: On 12/7/2023 8:16:00 AM the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in Douglas County. Original Grantor: WILLIAM LESLIE IV Original Beneficiary: ZIONS BANCORPORATION, N.A., dba VECTRA BANK COLORADO Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: ZIONS BANCORPORATION, N.A., dba VECTRA BANK COLORADO Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 6/27/2022 Recording Date of DOT: 10/11/2022 Reception No. of DOT: 2022066559 DOT Recorded in Douglas County. Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $160,000.00 Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $160,074.12 Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-38-101 (4) (i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay installments of principal and interest, together with other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations of the terms thereof. THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN. The property described herein is all of the property encumbered by the lien of the deed of trust.

DOUGLAS W. BROWN Colorado Registration #: 10429 7995 E. Prentice Avenue, Suite 101E , GREENWOOD VILLAGE, COLORADO 80111 Phone #: (303) 329-3363 Fax #: Attorney File #: 3230-157 *YOU MAY TRACK FORECLOSURE SALE DATES on the Public Trustee website: https:// www.douglas.co.us/public-trustee/ Legal Notice No. 2023-0204 First Publication: 2/8/2024 Last Publication: 3/7/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press PUBLIC NOTICE Highlands Ranch NOTICE OF SALE Public Trustee Sale No. 2023-0194 To Whom It May Concern: On 11/28/2023 9:24:00 AM the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in Douglas County. Original Grantor: DONALD R ERMEL Original Beneficiary: WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 5/27/2015 Recording Date of DOT: 5/28/2015 Reception No. of DOT: 2015034703 DOT Recorded in Douglas County. Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $195,000.00 Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $152,280.45

Legal Description of Real Property: LOT 82, HIGHLANDS RANCH – FILING NO. 150, 4TH AMENDMENT, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO

Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-38-101 (4) (i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Borrower's failure to make timely payments as required under the Evidence of Debt and Deed of Trust.

Which has the address of: 9600 Firenze Way, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

NOTICE OF SALE

The property described herein is all of the property encumbered by the lien of the deed of trust.

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

Legal Description of Real Property: LOT 33A-C, HIGHLANDS RANCH FILING

NO. 121-B, 4TH AMENDMENT, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO Which has the address of: 1235 Carlyle Park Cir, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129-5668 NOTICE OF SALE The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust. THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at the Public Trustee’s office, Philip S Miller Building Hearing Room, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, I will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. If the sale date is continued to a later date, the deadline to file a notice of intent to cure by those parties entitled to cure may also be extended. First Publication: 1/25/2024 Last Publication: 2/22/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press Dated: 11/28/2023 DAVID GILL DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee The name, address and telephone numbers of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: DAVID R DOUGHTY Colorado Registration #: 40042 9540 MAROON CIRCLE SUITE 320, ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO 80112 Phone #: (303) 706-9990 Fax #: (303) 706-9994 Attorney File #: 23-031247 *YOU MAY TRACK FORECLOSURE SALE DATES on the Public Trustee website: https:// www.douglas.co.us/public-trustee/ Legal Notice No. 2023-0194 First Publication: 1/25/2024 Last Publication: 2/22/2024 Publisher: Douglas County News Press

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Highlands Ranch Legals February 8, 2024 * 1

February 8, 2024Fe

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