Lone Tree Voice June 13, 2024

Republican candidates for Congress

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Five of the six Republican candidates running for Congress in Colorado’s 4th District are disavowing their state party’s leadership, citing its recent anti-LGBTQ messaging and concerns over campaign impropriety.  e conservatives, who are on

the primary ballot this month, have called into question Colorado GOP Chair Dave Williams and are advocating for new leadership.

Only U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, who received the endorsement of the party, declined to comment on Williams’ messaging.

Williams has sparked criticism inside and outside of the Colorado Re-

publican Party for an email sent from the state party that claimed people in the LGBTQ community are “evil” and “godless groomers.”

At a June 5 election forum hosted by the League of Women Voters Colorado, radio host Deborah Flora, state Rep. Mike Lynch, former state Sen.

Students from Highlands Ranch area to make Broadway debut

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Nine students are headed to New York to make their Broadway debut on one of the oldest stages: the historic New Amsterdam eatre.

“Performing on Broadway, that’s been a dream of mine since I was young,” said Bri Felker, a 16-yearold performer. “I can nally slap it o the bucket list.”

Between the ages of 10 and 18, the other eight students are also excited to have the experience. ey will perform a high-energy number to “You Can’t Stop the Beat” from the musical “Hairspray” on June 17 as part of the annual Arts For Autism Broadway Cabaret Production.

Each year, seven student organizations in the nation get invited to perform in the production, which raises awareness and funds for organizations that support or give opportunities to students on the autism spectrum, or who have special needs, to be able to have a community and an outlet to express themselves.

Dave Williams speaks during a Colorado GOP state central meeting on March 11, 2023, in Loveland where he was elected chairman of the party. Several prominent Republicans question Williams’ leadership and want him to resign as party chair.

COURTESY OLIVIA SUN FOR COLORADO SUN VIA REPORT FOR AMERICA

Thomas, Burcham square o in Republican state House primary

Winner to face Democratic incumbent Bob Marshall in November election

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Highlands Ranch Republicans have two candidates to choose from in their party’s e ort to capture state House District 43.

e seat is currently held by Democratic Rep. Bob Marshall. Two familiar local Republicans, Lora omas, a Douglas County Commissioner, and Matt Burcham, a Highlands Ranch resident of 17 years who has served as a local precinct and district captain for the Republican Party, hope to unseat Marshall.

“I feel like we need more representation from the average citizen,” Burcham, a Colorado native, told the Highlands Ranch Herald. “We need to maybe take a step back from the career politicians type and try to forge a new path and solve problems

in a new way.”

omas, who has served eight years as a commissioner, is looking to bring her experience to the state Capitol next year.

“I have a record to run on,” omas told the Herald. “I have a lifetime of public service. People don’t need to wonder if I’m going to stand up for the taxpayers because I’ve been doing it for years.”

Before becoming commissioner, omas worked with the Colorado State Patrol and served as the Douglas County coroner. omas believes she can bring practical solutions to the Capitol when it comes to crime, the cost of living, taxes and the quality of education.

She told the Highlands Ranch Herald that she has been knocking on people’s doors around the district to learn more about what issues local residents want to see addressed. She said serving in the legislature would not be so much about what’s important to her, but rather what’s important to the voters.

One of their top concerns, she said, is property taxes.

denied an additional 4% in property tax relief.

She said her experience in government quali es her to go to the Capitol.

“I don’t have to have on the job training,” said omas. “When I get to the Capitol, I will hit the ground running, doing everything possible, working with others to reduce the burden of property taxes on our residents.”

Burcham also hears from constituents that property taxes are among the most important issues. People are altering their budgets because of the increased monthly expenses, he said.

But the top issue, he said, depends on who you talk to. He told the Herald that in his life as an ordinary citizen allows him to hear “everyday” issues people are facing openly. .

Burcham said he is not looking to use this position to promote himself in future o ces, but rather be a citizen legislator that serves the community with plans to eventually return to the private sector.

Public safety is an important issue to Burcham. He said he was shocked by a recent news report highlighting Hosted

omas has joined her fellow county commissioners in supporting a lawsuit against the state of Colorado that alleges residents were

Lora Thomas, left, and Matt Burcham are vying for the Republican fall ballot spot in Colorado House District 43. COURTESY PHOTOS

Readers Haven’t Come Up With Solutions to the Home Insurance Crisis, Just Lots of Horror Stories

My May 16 column, “A Full-Blown Home Insurance Crisis Is Brewing,” invited readers to share their personal experiences and also any suggestions they had for solving the crisis, which is getting worse by the minute.

There has been some good national coverage of the subject in the press and on television news programs. The bottom line is that even places like Colorado which don’t experience as many disasters as the two coasts and “tornado alley” are subject to increases in insurance premiums due to payouts elsewhere.

er more foothills areas than they do areas in the plains. Those two ZIP codes encompass 184 square miles — bigger than the 64 Zip codes in Denver, including the airport’s 54 square miles!

According to economist Elliot Eisenberg, “In 2013 and 2014, the number of weather/climate disasters exceeding $1 billion inflation-adjusted was 10. In 2017, the number hit 19, in 2020 it was 22, and… the number reached a record 28 in 2023. The years 2020-2023 have been four of the worst five years, with 2017 also in the top five.”

A May 13, 2024, article in the New York Times detailed the increasing losses by insurers in all 50 states. That included Colorado, where insurers have lost money is all but three years since 2013. The article quoted Dave Jones of the Climate Risk Initiative at UC Berkeley as saying, “I believe we’re marching toward an uninsurable future.” I have posted a link to that Times article at http://RealEstateToday.substack.com.

There’s a local problem which we’ve seen here in Golden, where our two main ZIP codes (80401 and 80403) cov-

Some insurance companies are withdrawing not just from individual communities with serious wildfire risk, but from complete ZIP codes containing areas with elevated wildfire risk.

If your home has a mortgage, your lender typically requires insurance, but when there is no mortgage, homeowners can choose not to have insurance, and a growing number of such homeowners are going without coverage — 14 percent according to a March 2024 report from the Consumer Federation of America.

Similarly, if you don’t have a loan on your automobile, you can choose not to have collision, comprehensive or theft insurance on your car, and I’m among those who are taking that risk because of the high cost of those coverages. An article on Forbes.com last week reported that 25% of car owners don’t have collision insurance.

HOAs are being hit especially hard when it comes to master policies. Reader KC Harney wrote me about an HOA in Parker which, following a May 2023 hail claim, raised the premium from $178,000 per year with a $2 million deductible to $337,000 per year with a $4 million deductible. This resulted in a special assessment of $12,000 per HOA member. It should be noted, KC told

Rules for Buyer Agent Agreements Badly Flawed

Last week the National Association of Realtors (NAR) fleshed out the rules it will enforce regarding the written agreement which a buyer and agent must sign before a buyer can be shown a listing.

On the one hand, NAR says it’s important for the buyer agreement to stress that agent commissions are negotiable, but on the other hand it says that the agreement signed by buyer and agent must spell out a fee/commission that cannot be increased by any source.

In other words, I’m required to have a buyer sign an agreement that they will pay me an acceptable ultimate fee for my efforts on their behalf. But if I agree, say, to a 1% or 2% commission agreement and I help them buy a house from a seller will-

Summer Solstice Party on June 20

If, like me, you support the work of New Energy Colorado, which, among other things, sponsors the annual Green Homes Tour, you’ll want to attend its annual fundraiser on June 20th at Solterra. See www.NewEnergyColorado.org

me, that the May 2023 event cost only $1.9 million to repair, which was less than the $2 million deductible, so the insurance company paid out nothing, yet they raised the premium and the deductible because there was a claim!

Broker associate Chuck Brown told me how insurance costs nearly killed a transaction of his in Evergreen. The buyer was turned down by just about every major insurance carrier before obtaining a policy from Farmers Insurance for $9,000 per year with a $35,000 deductible for fire and hail. The next lowest offer was a $19,000 premium from Highlight.

Colorado Law Passed in 2023 Is

But a Limited Solution to Problem

Last May, Governor Polis signed into law HB23-1288, the Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Plan, commonly known as the FAIR Plan. The 9member board of the Plan is still setting up shop and won’t issue insurance policies until early 2025. In essence, the FAIR Plan is an insurer of last resort for homeowners and businesses who cannot get coverage from any insurer operating in Colorado.

Every insurer in Colorado must participate in the Plan. The concept is that all Colorado insurance carriers share the expenses, income and losses, ensuring a fair distribution of costs.

The policies issued under the FAIR

Price

ing to pay me a much higher co-op commission (because they want their home to sell quickly), I can only accept from the seller the amount in my buyer agreement.

This is madness! What it will do is drive buyers to work only with listing agents, which is not good public policy. Every buyer deserves to have an agent working on his or her behalf.

What’s also being overlooked throughout this months-long discussion of the NAR settlement is that most buyers are hard pressed to come up with their down payment, so how can you expect them to pay thousands in additional dollars for professional representation? They will not get the representation they deserve by working only with the agents representing sellers.

That is why the old system of sellers paying a commission which the listing agent can share with a buyer’s agent is the only and best way of serving both buyers and sellers — but that ship has sailed, unfortunately. It will be interesting to see the chaos resulting from these new rules.

Plan are not subsidized. The premiums are required to be “actuarially sound.” Coverage is limited to $750,000 for homes and $1 million for businesses, which will result in under-insurance for many clients, so it’s not a perfect fix and doesn’t promise seriously lower insurance rates. It only guarantees that homeowners and businesses will be able to obtain insurance.

I’m troubled by the Plan’s requirement that a homeowner or business be unable to obtain insurance. The homeowners and HOA mentioned above were not denied insurance, just overcharged, so they wouldn’t be eligible.

It still runs like new, although it has 102,700 miles on the odometer. I’m letting it go for $20,000. Call me at 303-5251851 for a test drive. You’ll love this car.

Reduced on 3-BR Lakewood Home

$529,000

This bi-level home at 11296 W. Kentucky Drive has been well maintained by the seller. It was painted and walkways replaced in 2006, and a new roof & siding were installed in 2017. The garage door was new in 2009. The seller put in a new, energy efficient furnace in 2014 and new acrylic shower & shower doors in 2007. The backyard is mostly flat and completely fenced. There are lilacs on two sides of the house, and an ornamental plum and two purple ash trees are in the backyard. (See photo.) Briarwood Hills is a very quiet, friendly neighborhood. Most of the surrounding homeowners care about their yards, as does this seller. View a narrated video walk-through online at www. GRElistings.com, then call listing agent Jim Swanson at 303-929-2727 to see it.

Smith

on giving and the getting will take care

Castle Rock, Douglas County opt out of new Colorado gun law

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Castle Rock’s Town Council has decided to opt out of a new law that bans guns in government buildings and courthouses.

e recent decision comes in the wake of a 2024 law legislators passed that ban guns from sensitive spaces, including government buildings, starting July 1.

e law allows municipalities to opt out of the ban and Castle Rock’s council members unanimously approved an ordinance to do just that.   e move maintains the town’s policy that allows people to carry guns in the Town Hall. Castle Rock’s town charter prevents the council from placing any restriction or limitation on the right of citizens to keep and bear rearms without voter approval with the exception of laws regarding brandishing and discharging.

Under Colorado law, open carrying of rearms is legal for people older than 18 and who can legally possess a rearm and concealed carry is legal with a permit.

“We certainly allow rearms to be carried in this ‘sensitive space,’” town attorney Mike Hyman said. “We’re really just preserving status quo.”

LEADERSHIP

Jerry Sonnenberg and entrepreneur

Peter Yu said the email was inappropriate and wrong, with some adding serious doubts about Williams’ leadership of the party. Colorado Rep. Richard Holtorf, who missed the forum, has independently spoken out against Williams’ leadership.

“I believe in treating everyone equally and making sure there’s no discrimination,” Yu said at the forum, co-hosted by the Douglas County News-Press and KUNC public radio. “As a minority myself, I take this very seriously because I have been welcome in this country with open arms.”

Flora said state party leaders are o track and should focus on building up its coalition of voters, instead of excluding people.

e ordinance was adopted on the rst reading, so it’s e ective before the July 1 deadline. Typically, ordinances need two readings to pass.

Douglas County Commissioners approved a similar ordinance opting out of the ban for county buildings in the unincorporated areas of the county.

Hyman said he reached out to the county to work on opting out county buildings within Castle Rock boundaries through an amendment to the town’s ordinance.

Councilmember Laura Cavey said she supported the measure as a move to protect gun rights and called for the state legislature to stop infringing on the Second Amendment.

“I really appreciate us doing this because our Second Amendment rights should not be infringed upon,” Cavey said.

Councilmember Max Brooks agreed and said that he’s frustrated with the legislative e orts to usurp local control and pass state mandates.

“I am in favor of this simply from a matter of this being to retain a decision that has already been made at the ballot box by the voters of Castle Rock,” Brooks said. “I’m deaf to the legislation that comes out

“Instead of closing the tent front ap and shoving people out the back door, I’ve been focused on opening it up and inviting everyone to join who wants to stand for one another’s right to live free,” she said. “Really the conversation for the Republican Party is persuading our neighbors that our policies are the solutions to what keeps them up at night.”

“It’s sad for our state that we have a state party that is doing these sorts of things and we need to put adults back in the room,” he said.

Lynch echoed those comments, saying the party should be focusing on issues that most impact voters, like in ation and taxes. He called the state party’s decision to send the email an “unfortunate misstep.”

Sonnenberg said the messaging didn’t represent Republicans as a party. He said its leadership is wrong to alienate people.

“Our party is one that believes in smaller government and restrictions

Castle Rock Town Council has decided that the town will opt out of a state law that bans guns from places such as government buildings. The council’s vote was unanimous. The town ordinance was adopted on first reading instead of requiring a second reading, a break from the usual practice.

on (the Second Amendment) or any further erosion of local control from the state legislature.”

Brooks, a Republican, is running

on regulations, not who to exclude,” Sonnenberg said. “Jesus was very clear that we love all people and all people are a gift from God and those people we put our loving arms around and encompass all of us. I’m willing to do that and want to continue to do that.”

In response, Williams reiterated his message.

“We make no apologies for saying God hates pride or pride ags as it’s an agenda that harms children and undermines parental authority, and the only backlash we see is coming from radical Democrats, the fake news media, and weak Republicans who bow down at the feet of leftist cancel culture,” he said in an emailed statement.

e email is just the latest in a series of moves that has made Williams a divisive leader in his own party.

Williams is also running for Congress, to represent the 5th District,

to represent Castle Rock at the state Capitol in House District 45. He faces a primary against Republican Bill Jack on June 25.

which covers El Paso County, including Colorado Springs. e seat is currently held by U.S. Rep. Doug Lamborn. Williams has maintained his position as chair during his campaign.

Several Colorado conservatives have said Williams’ decision to not step down while seeking public ofce constitutes a con ict of interest.

Before this year, party rules prevented the party from endorsing candidates in primaries.

In May, Holtorf called on Williams to resign after the party endorsed Boebert.

“( e party’s) job is to get as many Republicans elected as possible following a free and fair election,” Holtorf said in the statement. “ e state party infrastructure is NOT supposed to be used for endorsements of one candidate prior to the primary, to show favoritism in an e ort to bypass voters, or to be used for the Chairman’s own candidacy.”

PHOTO BY MCKENNA HARFORD

Closer look at the McDonald’s backlash in Castle Pines

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

This spring, talk of building a 24/7 McDonald’s pushed nearby residents to show up in droves to a Castle Pines City Council meeting, airing concerns that the fast food restaurant would negatively impact the community.

“Putting this McDonald’s in the proposed location will decimate property values and create a draw for crime,” Robert Stevens,a Castle Pines resident, wrote in a letter to city officials.

City leaders echoed the public’s concerns, especially the fears that the McDonald’s would increase crime.

In front of the frustrated crowd, city councilmembers voted down the plan to build a drive-thru near Castle Pines Parkway and Lagae Road, not far from Interstate 25, a rejection that elicited applause from the crowd that stayed at the city council meeting until after midnight to hear the decision.

While the McDonald’s plan met defeat in late May, concerns over what other business could pop up in that spot — and how other property development could affect Castle Pines — may continue.

The Douglas County News-Press spoke to public officials about crime, property values and what rules limit city decisions about property developments. Here’s a dive into those topics.

Talking crime

The News-Press asked the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office whether it expected that adding a 24/7 McDonald’s drive-thru would increase crime — and whether it would add crime specifically in nearby neighborhoods rather than on the McDonald’s property itself.

The sheriff’s office has “no official statement or concerns to share regarding this matter,” said Deputy Cocha Heyden, a spokesperson for the office.

“We have no way to predict or anticipate any specific increase in crime due to the addition of a 24/7 McDonald’s drive-thru,” Heyden said.

A Castle Pines official at the city council meeting said the city talkedwith the sheriff’s office about crime and fast food.

“It appears that the number of calls for service is related more to the number of locations and/or higher-populated areas where the restaurant is located,” said Donna Ferguson, the city’s community development director.

“They did share that looking at the McDonald’s, Burger King and Wendy’s locations in their system, from January to May 10 of 2024, that Burger King located in Highlands Ranch had the highest number of associated calls for service, and they did say that the Wendy’s in Castle Pines during the same time period only had three calls, and two of those calls were associated with traffic (events),” Fergu-

son said.

The Wendy’s on Castle Pines Parkway off I-25 is open until midnight, according to its webpage.

Jim Boselli, an owner-operator with McDonald’s locations in the Front Range, told city council that the planned Castle Pines location had not been determined to be 24/7.

But a letter from the developer’s team in January refers to “the 24hour operations of the store.”

‘Hard to argue’

As for whether adding a McDonald’s would drive property values down, Toby Damisch, who heads the county’s property valuation office,doesn’t believe fast food restaurants necessarily negatively affect home prices.

The planned McDonald’s location was roughly 300 feet away from the nearest homes.

“Our office will typically adjust our value models downward on the homes that directly overlook and back to a drive-through restaurant. If a specific address does not back to it, we don’t typically adjust for it,” said Damisch, the county assessor, adding: “There is a new McDonald’s on Chambers at Hess that is visible from a few dozen homes and we’ve seen no value loss there. However, none of the homes back directly to the restaurant.”

Damisch, whose office calculates home values for property tax purposes, noted how an upcoming indoor self-storage business — to be

built between the nearby homes and the proposed McDonald’s spot — could factor intoproperty values.

“If they cannot see (McDonald’s) or hear it because of the development in between, it’s hard to argue anything really,” Damisch said. “The current residents may hate it, but imagine you are the buyer in a few years — I might be more annoyed with the self storage.”

‘Pro-property rights’

Before voting to reject the McDonald’s plan, Councilmember Roger Hudson said that city council doesn’t have much latitude during a property development process.

“I wish I was as magical as the residents believe that we are,” Hudson said.

Moving a McDonald’s or picking a different restaurant is not a power the council has, Hudson added. Cities like Castle Pines set the zoning rules for where different types of property development — like homes, commercial buildings and other land uses — can occur.

But once those rules are set, if a property owner wants to build something that fits within the zoning for an area, Castle Pines legally must allow it if it’s consistent with the city’s property development standards, guidelines and other city goals.

City officials can change zoning

Meet third-generation hat shaper Parker Thomas at the Mile High Hoedown

BY JO ANN M. COLTON

Colorado-born Parker omas Orms always envisioned himself growing up and tackling life head-on as an athlete on a sports eld. So, how did he wind up being a hat shaper and owner of Hats By Parker omas? e answer is… fate! Parker’s father Glenn has been a hat shaper all his life following the tradition set by his own father. Parker’s grandpa Dewey started shaping hats 65 years ago in Texas — and did so until his death in 2022.

Parker inherited his passion for playing sports from his mom and her family. His mother Katherine lettered in softball at Northern Colorado in the 1970s.

Parker omas Orms attended Colorado University Boulder (20102013) on a football scholarship and played defensive back for the Colorado Bu aloes football team. He was an engaging presence on the eld and a fan favorite. Parker was on the path to joining the NFL although football-related injuries (shoulder and hamstring injuries and a torn ACL for which he had to undergo surgery) likely ended that pursuit.

In 2015, Parker traveled to Milan to play semi-pro football as a Free Safety Punt Return Man for the Milano Rhinos, Italy’s professional league. But after playing his last football season in Europe, Parker omas came home to his family and the family traditions that are tightly woven into the fabric of his being. So, it wasn’t just a “hat” trick that led him to become a hat shaper and Parker’s success is proving to be far more rewarding than he could ever have imagined.

“I worked with my father and grandfather for eight years. Traveling around di erent rodeos and western-themed events, I shaped and designed cowboy and fedora hats,” said

Parker who has been adding his own sense of style and creativity to traditional hats while shaping his own destiny in the process.

en he opened Hats By Parker omas (https://www.hatsbyparkerthomas.com/) two years ago at 257 Fillmore St., Unit 110, in the Cherry Creek area of Denver where he meets with his clientele by appointment. Parker and his small team of hat craftsmen also shape and sell his hats nationwide at private home parties (with 5-25 people), weddings, corporate gatherings, and community events. Likewise, sports gures and celebrities like Reba McEntire are now a part of his overall customer base. Most of Parker’s bookings are

made through his business location or through Instagram and TikTok.

e store and private events keep Parker busy these days but he still enjoys opportunities to be part of community events like the June 29 Mile High Hoedown at the Stampede in Aurora.

“I am really looking forward to meeting people at the Mile High Hoedown,” said Parker who explained that he welcomes every opportunity to support Colorado’s lifestyles and interact with athletes/artists, and all others within its many communities.

“Each hat and design depends on the needs of the customer and the customizations they choose,” said Parker. He stated that although he can

shape any type hat he especially enjoys creating cowboy style hats, which are so very popular throughout Colorado.

“Most hats can be done in around 30 minutes and I will make your hat to order right there at the Mile High Hoedown,” said Parker who mentioned that his custom wool or beaver-blend hats range from $200 to $450. For additional fees he also o ers cleaning, reshaping and branding services.

Music lovers won’t want to miss a beat when Boulder’s very own Sun Jr. brings their “Psych Mountain Rock” sounds to the stage. Dancers will love learning the latest line dances taught throughout the day by dance instructor/choreographer Laurie Burkardt. Attendees can visit vendor booths and print their own shirt or tank top with Ink and Drink, obtain a ash tattoo from Ace of MR. ACE Art & Tattoos, and get interactive with some “not permanent but cool” body art/ face painting and/or hair sparkle accents from Little People Face Painting. Enjoy food truck food/beverages, and stop by and meet with hat shaper Parker omas to purchase your custom hat!

Get the “low down” on the Hoedown (tickets and more) at coloradocommunitymedia.com. Mark your calendars for CCM’s Mile High Hoedown on Saturday/June 29 (11:00am-5:00pm) at the Stampede, 2431 S. Havana Street in Aurora. Socialize with friends and/or family, eat/ drink/kick up your heels—and just have a rip-roaring good time! Tickets are $20/per ticket; $25.00 at the door and includes the entry fee only. For a limited time, CCM is running a BOGO promotion on its website; don’t miss out BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

PRIMARY

that Colorado has more crime than the national average.

“Public safety is super important and once you have public safety, then you’re allowed to thrive in different areas of your life,” Burcham said.

Burcham said that immigration seems to be on many resident’s minds. If he were to be elected, Burcham would like to ght to repeal laws that prohibit local police from working with federal immigration agencies.

As for omas, she has heard concerns surrounding immigration and

fears existing local services could be cut to help pay for the in ux of migrants. Other concerns she heard were around zoning and state laws that prevent parents from being noti ed about issues involving their children at schools.

“I have been working on legislation for years as county commissioner,” said omas. “I have relationships built with current legislators and other commissioners that come to the Capitol for legislation.”

omas is endorsed by the Colorado Chamber of Commerce, a private non-pro t organization that aids businesses throughout the state.

However, omas stated on the social media channel, X, that her campaign has not relied on endorsements, but she made an exception

for the chamber’s endorsement. e post states: “While my campaign has not sought out endorsements because I have an extensive record of governing, this pro-business endorsement was accepted because it is based on my record and ability to work with others.”

Meanwhile, Burcham has received multiple endorsements from notable gures and organizations around the state, including omas’ fellow county commissioner George Teal. e list also includes the Colorado Republican Party, former Colorado Gov. Bill Owens, Parker Mayor Je Toborg, state Sen. Kevin Van Winkle and retired Castle Rock police Cmdr. John Anderson.

Also endorsing Burcham is Republican Kurt Hu man, who ran to

represent District 43 in 2022, but lost to Marshall in the general election.

Burcham, who ran for a seat on the Centennial Water and Sanitation District Board last year, believes he can show district 43 voters that conservative principles and ideas are the best way to solve the challenges Colorado and the community face.

“Bringing more of a normal type of guy to the state Capitol makes more sense to try to tackle problems that don’t seem to get any better with the types of people who are currently in our leadership,” said Burcham. “I want to be that champion for our community and take the voice of Highlands Ranch to the Capitol.”

Marshall is running unopposed for the Democratic Party..

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Three Republican candidates battle to replace Douglas County commissioner

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BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

All three Republicans jockeying to represent northwest Douglas County say the burden of property taxes is a top issue facing local residents.

“That’s the No. 1 issue when I go door to door that people are feeling the burn,” said Priscilla Rahn, former vice chair of the Colorado Republican Party, who is one of the three hopefuls running to replace outgoing Commissioner Lora Thomas in District 3.

The other two candidates are state Sen. Kevin Van Winkle and John Carson, a former Douglas County school board president.

The three, who are on the Republican primary ballot for the election later this month, spoke with the Douglas County News-Press amid their push to join the board of county commissioners. Rahn is a music, band and orchestra teacher and a former principal who has a small business online. Carson is an attorney for a Colorado mortgage company. Van Winkle was sworn into the state Senate in 2022 and is a small-business owner.

Homeowners around the Denver area recently faced steep hikes in theirproperty tax bills, driven by an expensive real-estate market. In Douglas County, the median increase in residential property values

compared to the prior year was about 47%.

“We need to dramatically cut property taxes, and the county has the power to do that,” said Van Winkle, who currently represents the Highlands Ranch area at the Capitol.

Carson said the spike in property taxes “has contributed to the already high cost of living.”

Against a backdrop of conservatives virtually unified against higher property tax bills, the three candidates are fighting to set themselves apart. Given the high number of registered Republicans in the county, the winner of the primary could glide to an easy victory in the November election.

The seat is being vacated by Thomas, who cannot run for reelection because of term limits. The district’s population center is Highlands Ranch.

Douglas County commissioners are elected “at large” from one of three geographic districts. That means commissioners are required to reside in different districts, but voters throughout the entire county cast ballots for each seat.

In addition to the District 3 race, the District 2 race is also competitive — two Democrats are facing off in the vast region that covers Castle Rock and the southern portion of the county, including much of Douglas’ rural areas. The Democrats, Julien Bouquet and Angela Thomas, are

competing for the chance to unseat incumbent Commissioner George Teal, a Republican who is unopposed in the primary.

In District 3, one Democrat — Josh Smith — has filed documentation to run for the seat and is also unopposed in the primary.

Here’s what District 3’s Republican hopefuls had to say on the issues and their backgrounds.

Talking experience

Claiming three decades of work in business and law, Carson says his experience prepared him well for a county commissioner seat.

“I have managed large teams of people and overseen substantial budgets,” said Carson, who also served on the governing body of the University of Colorado. As a CU regent, “I oversaw a $4 billion budget and four university campuses.”

He also touts delivering “conservative results” as president of the Douglas County school board, noting he helped end the contract with the county teachers union.

Rahn pointed to her service on the Douglas County Planning Commission, a group of residents who advise the county’s elected leaders on property development matters — including plans for housing and other land uses.

Priscilla Rahn

John Carson

Kevin Van Winkle COURTESY PHOTOS

COMMISSIONER

The planning commissioners make recommendations, and the county’s board of three elected commissioners generally make the final call on development decisions in areas outside of municipalities, also known as unincorporated areas.

“We have interactions with the community that are relevant,” said Rahn, who was chosen to chair the planning commission last year. She added: “I have a deep understanding of Douglas County.”

Van Winkle says he has a “proven record” in the state legislature of fighting for conservative values.

That includes stances on “big bills such as Second Amendment bills and life bills,” referring to proposals that relate to abortion, he said.

Eye on ‘RWR’ water plan

The Republicans also talked about what’s known as the Renewable Water Resources plan, an idea that has drawn controversy in county politics.

That’s a proposal to pump about 22,000 acre-feet of water per year to the county from the San Luis Valley in the south part of the state.

An acre-foot is the equivalent of a one-foot-deep pool about the size of a football field.Renewable Water Resources, often called RWR, is the private company that proposed the project.

In 2022, Commissioner Abe Laydon joined Thomas in deciding not to move forward with the project, and Teal continued to support it.

Van Winkle doesn’t support the RWR project.

“That project doesn’t seem to be

a wise investment for the county,” said Van Winkle, who anticipated that the matter could become tied up in court for the next decade or more if it were to move forward.

“If Douglas County pursued trying to take the water of the San Luis Valley, those counties would sue Douglas County,” he added. Carson says he would not have voted for the RWR proposal if he were a commissioner. He argues that that type of policy decision should be left to local water districts.

“If a water district feels they want to purchase water or partner with that type of entity, that’s fine with me,” Carson said. But bringing that idea to the county to ask for taxpayer money is something he would not have supported, he said.

Rahn noted there is no RWR plan currently in front of county officials.

“So I can’t vote on that because there’s no plan, but what I would support is looking at a plan that anybody would bring before the county commissioners. I have an all-of-the-above approach,” Rahn said, adding: “I will never say I’m going to reject a plan from anyone. I will do the job of a commissioner and be fair and listen and make a decision based on the application in front of me.”

She acknowledged she received large campaign donations from Hugh Bernardi and John Kim, who have been involved in RWR. But she said their support is not about RWR and that they are “invested in the community.”

“I haven’t talked to them about RWR at all,” Rahn said.

“RWR just happened to be one organization that brought a (idea) to the county” and people have been “demonizing them,” Rahn added.

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Quality over quantity in relationships

In today’s fast-paced world, the significance of prioritizing relationships often takes a back seat to professional ambitions and personal pursuits. However, the value of nurturing relationships cannot be overstated. Whether at home, among friends, or at work, the quality of our relationships profoundly impacts our well-being, happiness, and success. Understanding who the most important relationships are and how to prioritize them is essential for leading a fulfilling life. The relationships with our spouse and children are the foundation of our personal lives. These bonds shape our emotional health and provide a sense of stability and belonging. Prioritizing relationships at home means dedicating quality time and attention to our loved ones. It involves active listening, shared experiences, and consistent support. Research shows that strong family bonds contribute to lower stress levels, better mental health, and greater life satisfaction. Investing in a spouse means more than just coexisting; it requires continuous effort to maintain intimacy, trust, and mutual respect. Regular date nights, open communication, and shared responsibilities can strengthen marital bonds. Similarly, being present for our children, engag-

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

We need the real deal

ing in their interests, and providing guidance helps them feel valued and secure. As James Baldwin aptly said, “Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.”

In an era dominated by social media, it’s easy to fall into the trap of maintaining numerous superficial friendships. However,

the depth of our relationships matters more than the number of friends we have. A tight-knit circle of close friends provides emotional support, companionship, and a sense of community. These friends are the ones we can rely on during challenging times and celebrate with during successes.

Workplace relationships are crucial for career success and per-

It took me several presidential election cycles to register to vote in Colorado after I chose Denver metro as my home in 1961. Colorado was a solid red Republican state and most of my friends, neighbors and co-workers were Colorado born or had moved to Colorado from neighboring states of the re-

gion. It was a waste of time to vote my Virginia/West Virginia heritage which dated to 1660 Jamestown.

I was surprised to nd most Coloradans were just like me and I t in with the rural heritage of Colorado. Until now. Over the past dozen years or so Colorado has become “infested” with non-Republican (Trump’s words) Republicans led

by anything but a Republican. My late mother would be quick to label Trump as “nothing but white trash.”

“Drugstore cowboys,” “Rexall rangers” and “All hat and no cattle” were three of the labels 1960s Coloradans placed on people who pretended to be something they were not. Colorado and Wyoming lost two purebred Republican congres-

sonal satisfaction. These include relationships with colleagues, mentors, and supervisors. A positive work environment, built on mutual respect and collaboration, enhances productivity and job satisfaction. Prioritizing professional relationships means taking the time to build trust, communi-

SEE NORTON, P15

sional representatives in Ken Buck and Liz Cheney and the wannabe replacements for Congressman Buck number several wearing cowboy hats. Hopefully, one of these people is the real deal and not just be a replacement for one of the three Moscow-teers led by, what’sher-name from Ri e.

Roy Legg, Highlands Ranch

— for example, changing where fast food restaurants are allowed — but once a property owner has applied to the city to build something, the city must judge it based on the rules in place when the project started.

In rejecting the McDonald’s plan, though, the city council focused on broad language that lies in the Castle

NORTON

cate effectively, and support your colleagues.

Prioritizing relationships involves more than just spending time with people. It means being genuinely present, showing empathy, and valuing the other person’s perspective. It requires setting boundaries to protect quality time with loved ones and being intentional about maintaining connections. Prioritization also means recognizing when to let go of toxic relationships that drain energy and hinder personal growth.

For many, the relationship with God or a higher power is the cornerstone of their existence. It provides a sense of purpose, moral guidance, and inner peace. Prioritizing this relationship involves regular practices such as prayer, meditation, and participation in religious or spiritual activities. It means seeking spiritual growth, living by one’s values, and fostering a sense of connection with the divine.

Incorporating spirituality into daily life can offer profound ben-

ABOUT LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Colorado Community Media welcomes letters to the editor. Please note the following rules:

• Email your letter to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com. Do not send via postal mail. Put the words “letter to the editor” in the email subject line.

• Submit your letter by 5 p.m. on Wednesday in order to have it considered for publication in the following week’s

Pines property development standards, looking at how a development might a ect the “public health, safety and welfare of the community.”

In the minority, Councilmember Geo Blue argued in favor of the McDonald’s with Mayor Tracy Engerman echoing him.

“I’m very pro-business and proproperty rights,” Blue said.

Councilmembers Deborah Mulvey, Chris Eubanks, Hudson, Ben Price and Ron Cole voted to deny the plan, with Engerman and Blue voting in favor of it.

efits. It provides a framework for understanding life’s challenges, fosters resilience, and encourages a compassionate outlook. As C.S. Lewis remarked, “Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.”

Prioritizing relationships is about recognizing their fundamental role in our lives and making a conscious effort to nurture them. Whether it’s the bond with our spouse and children, the connection with close friends, professional relationships, or our spiritual relationship with God, each one contributes uniquely to our overall well-being. I would love to hear your story at gotonorton@gmail.com, and remember that by focusing on quality over quantity and being intentional in our interactions, we can build a supportive, fulfilling network that enriches our lives in countless ways and that really will make it 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.

newspaper.

• Letters must be no longer than 400 words.

• Letters should be exclusively submitted to Colorado Community Media and should not be submitted to other outlets or previously posted on websites or social media. Submitted letters become the property of CCM and should not be republished elsewhere.

Locomotives that built Colorado mining towns continue to steam after 150 years

BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Inside the mechanic shop of the Colorado Railroad Museum, the air is thick with smoke and the smell of burning wood and diesel fuel as locomotive #20 prepares to re up its steam engine to burn coal as it rst did in 1899.

e #20 was named “Portland‘’ after a pro table mine in the Cripple Creek District and was built to haul passengers and freight. It was sold to Rio Grande Southern in 1916, according to historians.

It was eventually donated to the Railroad Museum and returned to operation in 2020 following a $2 million,14-year restoration, accord-

ing to CRRM Chief Mechanic Je Taylor.

Taylor was the rst of several working mechanics/historians Colorado Community Media spoke with who made it clear: railroading and its history is not a job or hobby, it’s a passion.

“I like to say I get to play trains and it’s true,” Taylor said. “It sounds like a cliche but people say, ‘Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.’ Well, it’s mostly true. I still have hard days at work but I love what I do. It’s been a passion for all of my life. As far back as I remember, I’ve always liked trains. I never grew out of it.”

In 1943, the 43-ton #20 locomotive rolled over and o the tracks on a hill

outside Durango. According to historians, it landed on a rock that dented the thick steel plate of the boiler. e plate was eventually replaced as part of its restoration.

“All of these locomotives and all of these pieces of equipment and cars all have terribly fascinating stories and backgrounds. Almost all of them have been in some sort of derailment or wreck,” Taylor said.

Engine #20 is just one of the meticulously restored locomotives on the 15 acres of the Colorado Railroad Museum at 17155 W 44 Ave. in Golden. e living museum maintainsmore than 100 narrow and standardgauge steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars and cabooses, according to the museum.

Also on-site is locomotive #491, the largest operating narrow gauge steam locomotive in the western hemisphere, according to CRRM historians. Locomotive #491 is truly a “Colorado original,” having been built entirely in Colorado during the spring of 1928.

e largest steam engine at the museum, originally a Chicago Burlington and Quincy Railroad locomotive #5629, was built in 1940 and was used for fast freight and passenger service. It remained in operation until the early 1960s. No. 5629 is one of only four Burlington locomotives of its type still in existence, according to CRRM historians.

TRACKS

Enthusiasts can still board restored passenger cars for an authentic ride through on the rails powered by coalre steam locomotives, including #20.

Locomotives and railroads critical in the development of mining towns of Colorado

“ e story of Colorado being transformed in the 19th and 20th centuries is pretty much inseparable from the story of the railroad, so it’s hard to imagine Colorado without railroads,”

CRRM Executive Director Paul Hammond said.

e history is well documented in the CRRM library and resource center that spans well over 100 years of historical documents, maps and photographs. It was visited by more than 100,000 people from around the world last year, according to Hammond.

Gold and silver were discovered in Clear Creek County and Idaho Springs in 1859. Railroads didn’t arrive until 1876, according to historian Bob Bowland whose family settled in the mountain area in 1873.

“ e railroads were critical,” Bowland said.

Bowland and his wife Jan operate and maintain the Visitors Center and Historical Society at 2060 Miner St. in Idaho Springs.

“A lot of ore had to go to Denver to be treated after being milled up here and we certainly had mills but thenal smelting and re ning needed to be hauled to Denver,” Bowland said. ”Railroad transportation compared to the old ore wagons, there was really no comparison.”

e Argo Mill, 2350 Riverside Drive in Idaho Springs, would routinely ship up to 300 tons of gold and silver of highgrade ore to Denver smelters for nal processing, according to historical records.

“It’s so common to see mining towns and railroads together; they’re industries that need each other,” Bowland said with a laugh. “I would say, at least in this case, the mining needed the railroad more than the railroad needed the mines.”

Historical black-and-white photos of train cars lled with gold and silver ore heading to Denver ordain the walls of the historical society.

Well-dressed passengers from well over a century ago are also pictured boarding the steam-driven locomotive trains.

“Anytime a railroad arrived in town

back in those days it was a big deal and so it was truly critical,” Bowland said.

Devil’s Gate Station and High-Bridge defined Georgetown Loop railroad in 1883

e Devil’s Gate high bridge in Georgetown was considered to be an engineering feat when it was built in 1883, according to historical documents reviewed by Colorado Community Media.

It allowed trains climbing over steep mountains to switch back as the railroad rose from Georgetown to Silver Plume, according to the National and State Register.

“When it was built there were very few bridges that were curved and on a grade,” Brakeman and Conductor of the Georgetown Loop Railroad Caleb Murphy said. “It was thought that bridges had to be straight and level to be structurally sound but we did it and it was one of four or ve in the world at the time.”

e High-Bridge is approximately 300 feet long and built with an 18.5 degree left hand curve. It’s 100 feet above the Clear Creek bed and was originally constructed of cast and wrought iron, according to Murphy.

“ e old-time railroaders used to say that the bridge used to sway from sideto-side and sag in the middle as trains crossed over, thankfully our bridge does not do that,” Murphy said.

e original iron bridge was dismantled in 1939 and rebuilt in the 1970s.

It’s currently in use as the Georgetown Loop passenger train attracting more than 100,000 locals and visitors each year for historical trips with one of several restored coal- red steam locomotives, according to Murphy.

It’s not a job, it’s a passion

e historians, engineers, mechanics and volunteers who spoke with CCM are passionate about the history of railroading in Colorado.

“ is job?” Murphy asked, “It’s just a dream come true.”

e public’s attraction and passion for these historically accurate refurbished coal- red steam locomotives and cars was evident during CRRM’s recent “Colorado Crossings: Making History Today” event.

Locomotives #491 and #20 pulled passengers in original rail cars along the tracks surrounding the museum.

Hundreds of train enthusiasts, many dressed in vintage railroad overalls and hats with children in tow, snapped family pictures with living history as a background.

e existing parking lot over owed across the road, where it tripled in size.

In 1943, the 43-ton #20 locomotive rolled over and o the tracks on a hill outside Durango. According to historians, it landed on a rock that dented the thick steel plate of the boiler. The plate was eventually replaced as part of its restoration.

PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL

The story of Colorado being transformed in the 19th and 20th centuries is pretty much inseparable from the story of the railroad, historians say.

Colorado Railroad Museum Chief Mechanic Je Taylor with Engine #20, just one of the meticulously restored locomotives on the 15 acres of the museum grounds at 17155 W. 44th Ave. in Golden.

PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL

Centennial leg of Denver-Lone Tree bikeway to be completed next year

BY ISABEL GUZMAN

SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Bicyclists will soon be able to ride from Denver to Lone Tree, traversing alongside Interstate 25. Construction on the Inverness Drive West Bikeway began this week.

e project, expected to be com-

pleted by early 2025, includes a 6-foot-wide bike lane with a 2-footwide bu er on each side of Inverness Drive West between Dry Creek and County Line roads.

Plans also include the construction of a walking and cycling 10-footwide path separated from Inverness Drive West by a landscape bu er,

detours will be required.

e construction will close the right lane on northbound Inverness Drive West from south of Inverness Main Street to Dry Creek Road. e right turn pocket onto eastbound Dry Creek Road from northbound Inverness Drive West will also be closed, in addition to the closure of the sidewalk on the east side of Inverness Drive West between Inverness Main Street and Dry Creek Road.

e Inverness Drive West Bikeway project corresponds with the Dry Creek Road construction that will lengthen the eastbound Dry Creek Road right lane, east of the I-25 intersection.

new lighting, signs, enhanced drainage, repaved road and three new roundabouts near the UC Health driveway, Inverness Lane West, and the northern Homewood Suites driveway.

e project is among many meant to add cycling routes from the capital city to southern metro towns. is one will cost $7 million, funded by the Colorado Department of Transportation, Arapahoe County, Inverness Metropolitan District, City of Centennial, and Southeast Public Improvement Metro District.

e Dry Creek Road construction began in April and will also cause some lane closures through August, impacting drivers.

Arapahoe County advises travelers that while no car detours are necessary, drivers should pay extra attention to the closed lanes marked by barrels and signs. Some pedestrian

e right lane on eastbound Dry Creek Road between Inverness Drive West and Inverness Drive East will be closed, as well as the the northmost section Inverness Boulevard, the right turn pocket onto southbound Inverness Drive East from Dry Creek Road and a portion of Inverness Drive East will all be closed o from tra c.  ese closures will mostly impact those who travel south on Inverness Drive East and Inverness Boulevard and tra c will be rerouted through southbound Inverness Drive West. Eastbound and westbound travelers on Dry Creek Road will not be a ected.

Part-time hours Adaptable route sizes

No suit & tie required! revious carrier experience encouraged; reliable vehicle and email access, required. no telephone inquiries - but email us at:

Inverness Drive West Transportation Improvements project area map.

IMAGE COURTESY OF ARAPAHOE COUNTY

Thu 6/13

ElderPunk @ 7pm

Herman's Hideaway, 1578 S Broadway, Denver

Guardin @ 7pm

Moe's Original BBQ, 3295 S Broadway, Englewood

Fri 6/14

Brother and The Hayes at The Guild

@ 6pm

The Guild, 3435 S Inca St ste c, Englewood

Jay_Martin @ 6pm

Rocker Spirits, 5587 S Hill St, Littleton

Marcus Machado @ 7pm

Herman's Hideaway, 1578 S Broadway, Denver

Sat 6/15

Mojomama: Women Who Rock the Rockies

@ 1pm

Wild Goose Saloon, Parker

Forté Handbell Quartet: Kaleidoscope - The Forte Handbell Quartet in Brilliant Color! @ 6pm

Parker United Methodist Church, 11805 S Pine Dr, Parker

Eric Golden @ 11am

Tailgate Tavern & Grill, 19552 Mainstreet, Parker

Invincible @ 7pm

Herman's Hideaway, 1578 S Broadway, Denver

Sun 6/16

Sean Rodriguez: Preaching at Praise Center Church @ 8am

Praise Center Church, 3105 W Florida Ave, Denver

Fort Vine @ 2pm

Private Residence, Littleton

Natalie Layne: Community Worship Nights @ 6pm

Summit Church, 4240 N Perry Park Rd, Sedalia

Mon 6/17

Intermediate Guitar @ 11:30am / $189

Jun 17th - Jun 21st

Valor Center, 3775 Grace Blvd, Orchestra Room, Highlands Ranch. 303-471-3000

Billianne @ 7pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

Hollow Coves @ 8pm

Gothic Theatre, Englewood

Tue 6/18

DJ Rockstar Aaron: Forbidden Bingo Wednesdays - 'Bout Time Pub & Grub @ 7pm

Bout Time Pub & Grub, 3580 S Platte River Dr A, Sheridan

Thu 6/20

WaterFest 2024 @ 2pm

South Platte Renew, 2900 South Platte River Drive, Englewood. ebartlett@englewoodco.gov, 720753-2411

Valor Track Camp @ 7am / $125

Jun 18th - Jun 19th

Father's Day Party at Aspen Grove @ 2pm / $20 7301 S Santa Fe Dr, 7301 South Santa Fe Drive, Littleton. info@as pengrovecenter.com

Valor Athletic Stadium, Fields, and Courts, 3775 Grace Blvd, High‐lands Ranch. 303-471-3000

Wed 6/19

Ladies Night @ 5pm / $10

Stampede, Aurora

Neil Z @ Earls Kitchen @ 5pm

Earls Kitchen + Bar, 8335 Park Meadows Center Dr, Lone Tree

Sunny War @ 5pm

Levitt Pavilion Denver, 1380 W Florida Ave, Denver

Sophie Seng: Monthly Songwriter Showcase @ 5:30pm The Alley, 2420 W Main St, Littleton

Vamonos Pest/Mobro: Vamonos Pest plays Clement Park @ 6pm Clement Park, Littleton

Pattie Gonia @ 6:30pm Gothic Theatre, Englewood

Calendar information is provided by event organiz‐ers. All events are subject to change or cancella‐tion. This publication is not responsible for the ac‐curacy of the information contained in this calendar.

BROADWAY

Sending kids to Broadway is nothing new for the Put On Your Dancing Shoes dance company, a studio o County Line Road in the Highlands Ranch area. Previous students with the company have also performed in this production years prior with the help of studio owner Kayleigh Schadwinkel-Hickman, who made her rst choreographic Broadway debut in 2022 and is an award-winning professional traveling choreographer.

“It’s only by a Broadway star recommending your group or the executive producers of this organization seeking your work,” Schadwinkel-Hickman said. “I was like, there’s a lot of talent in the Midwest (region) — we should show that in the Big Apple.”

As Schadwinkel-Hickman has become a multi-branch entrepreneur with studios in Nebraska and Colorado, the two troupes from both states have been rehearsing individually and will put the number together at Pearl Studios in New York before performing in front of Broadway stars.

Michael James Scott, who has played Genie in Disney’s “Aladdin” internationally, will host the event that will include performers from musicals such as “Wicked,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “SpongeBob SquarePants: e Musical” and more.

“Our goal of the program is to re ne their skills in singing, dancing and acting and also life skills of networking,

Kayleigh Schadwinkel-Hickman began establishing her Put On Your Dancing Shoes dance company and KASH Dance and Choreography when she was in college. Schadwinkel-Hickman has over 25 years of dance experience and 13 years of choreography experience.

PHOTO BY HALEY LENA SEE BROADWAY, P21

BROADWAY

business and di erent things if they want to pursue it,” Schadwinkel-Hickman said.

Building a dance company

For Schadwinkel-Hickman, dance is more than just making it to Broadway or becoming a professional dancer. She loves to nd the diamonds in the rough and the hidden gems and help them nd who they are.

“If you can use dance as a platform to believe in yourself, give you condence, you can do anything in your life,” Schadwinkel-Hickman said.

Put On Your Dancing Shoes was started by Schadwinkel-Hickman while she was in college, but her passion for dance goes back over 25 years ago.

Growing up in Nebraska, she was on the dance and cheer team, ran track and eld, was in speech and school musicals and was valedictorian. In addition, she also played varsity volleyball.

Her parents “put me in dance actually to be a better volleyball player,” Schadwinkel-Hickman said. “ ey never realized the passion putting me in dance would ignite.”

Schadwinkel-Hickman attended Doane College, now called Doane University, where as a freshman she was casted in and choreographed the rst dance theater production on the campus. Although the school had a dance team and elective, there was no “true” dance program, she said. Schadwinkel-Hickman aimed to change that.

By her senior year in 2016, the program had grown to nearly 1,000 students and held an annual theater production. Put On Your Dancing Shoes dance company was born.

Shaping the next generation

Schadwinkel-Hickman went on to become an executive director for a chamber of commerce in Nebraska after graduation but started to expand her dance business on the side.  It was her passion and ambition for

dance that encouraged her to quit her job in 2019 and become a professional artist.

In the ve years since, SchadwinkelHickman has choreographed more than 400 dances and 35 musicals across the region, including a halftime event for the Harlem Globetrotters in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Valor Christian High School’s musical “Anastasia.”

Always wanting to give opportunities that she wished she could have

The RidgeGate calendar of fun starts here.

gotten while growing up, Schadwinkel-Hickman didn’t let moving to Colorado or the global pandemic stop her.

In 2019, Schadwinkel-Hickman established a live virtual dance program that got more than 23,000 individuals of all ages from 17 di erent states and 44 countries to get up and dance weekly, she said. Continuing online classes and in-person, the studio offers jazz, ballet, country line, lyrical, swing dance, musical theater and

Yoga in the Park

ballroom.

No matter the dance level, Schadwinkel-Hickman wants Put On Your Dancing Shoes dance company to be an inclusive and positive space for kids and young adults to express themselves. She loves paying support forward to the next generation.

“I had so many people who believed in me as a youngster and gave me opportunities,” SchadwinkelHickman said. Without that, she said, “I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Join RidgeGate and South Suburban Parks and Recreation for free community yoga classes on the grass at the south end of Belvedere Park, at the corner of RidgeGate Circle and Belvedere Lane. Please bring your own mat, water bottle and towel to all classes. In case of heavy rain or lightning, class will be cancelled.

Tuesday, June 25th, 6:30-7:30pm

Tuesday, July 30th, 6:30-7:30pm

Guided Nature Hikes

Each year, RidgeGate teams up with the South Suburban Parks and Recreation District to provide free, guided nature hikes. These hikes are led by professional naturalists from the district, and offer insight and education into the natural ecosystems within the open space at RidgeGate. Registration is required and available at RidgeGate.com

Friday, June 14th, 6:30-8pm – Birds at Sunset (Willow Creek Trail)

Friday, June 21st, 7:30-9pm – Strawberry Moon (Bluffs Regional Trail, partial loop)

Sunday, July 21st, 8:30-10pm – Buck Moon (Willow Creek Trail)

Friday, July 26th, 6-7:30pm – Urban Coyotes (Bluffs Regional Trail, partial loop)

Summer Beats Concerts

Enjoy these summertime concerts out on the grass with free live music, food trucks and activities for kids. It’s all happening in Prairie Sky Park, just west of the Lone Tree Recreation Center, courtesy of the South Suburban Parks and Recreation District.

Tuesday, June 18th, 6-8pm – Tunisia

Tuesday, July 16th, 6-8pm – 6 Million Dollar Band

Tunes on the Terrace at the Lone Tree Arts Center

RidgeGate is proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Lone Tree Arts Center’s ‘Tunes on the Terrace’—an outdoor evening concert series that will bring your summer nights to life. Check out the full schedule and buy tickets at LoneTreeArtsCenter.org

Friday, June 21st, 7:30pm – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (Special Indoor Concert)

Friday, June 28th, 7:30pm – The Brit Pack

Friday, July 12th, 7:30pm – Damn Tall Buildings

Friday, July 26, 7:30pm – Mistura Fina

Experience Historic Schweiger Ranch

The restoration of the 38-acre historic Schweiger Ranch, led by the Schweiger Ranch Foundation, gives us a glimpse into settlers’ lives. Today, the ranch is open to the public for self-guided visits and a variety of events throughout the year. Register for or learn more about these events online at SchweigerRanch.org

Friday, June 14th, 8:30-10am – Natural Heritage Walking Tour with SSPRD (Native Plant Families)

Saturday, June 15th, 10-11:30am – Guided Public Tour

Friday, June 21st, 6:30-7:30pm – Campfire Storytelling Series (Annie Oakley)

Wednesday, July 17th, 9-11am – Discover Archaeology

Thursday, July 18th, 8:30-10am – Natural Heritage Walking Tour with SSPRD (Natural Heritage of Native Americans)

Saturday, July 20th, 10-11:30am – Guided Public Tour

Candidates for Congressional District 4 in their own words

Primary elections are set for June 25

Colorado’s 4th Congressional District received queries from Colorado Community Media and the League of Women Voters Colorado. e questions were formulated by the two organizations in a pilot partnership for covering elections in a nonpartisan fashion. e responses from Republican and Democratic candidates follow below.

League of Women Voters of Colorado support or oppose candidates at any level of government. A candidate’s participation in our Q&As does not constitute an endorsement by our organizations. ese Q&A responses were fact-checked and edited for grammar. e primary election is June 25. Ballots were mailed to voters starting on June 3.

• Deborah Flora

• Jerry Sonnenberg

• Peter Yu

Democratic Party candidates:

• Trisha Calvarese

• John Padora Jr.

• Ike McCorkle

Republican candidates (in ballot order)

Lauren Boebert

Republican laurenforcolorado.com

Did not respond to questionnaire.

sonable system in place for legal immigration into this country that thoroughly vets those wishing to come into America and adding to our great country. What will you do to support a vibrant economy within your congressional district?

CD4 relies heavily on the oil and gas and the agricultural industry. e reduction of overbearing regulation on both those industries is essential to the survival of CD 4 and Colorado. In addition there are many federal grant opportunities that must be capitalized on to increase the high tech and alternative energy sectors; it would be my job to ensure we are maximizing those opportunities for the people of CD4.

What is your position on U.S. participation and leadership in NATO (North Atlantic Treaty

I think it is essential that we participate in NATO … as long as it exists. I am not a fan of NATO, but if we are going to add to the peace of the world we must participate to ensure our own ing the nancial burden of NATO and we need to

What additional protections, if any, are

Colorado produces the most environmentally friendly energy in the world. We must maintain that safety for our environment, but not at the cost of impacting working families in this state by using regulation to drive the costs so high that we harm our citizens. Colorado citizens are the benefactors from our rich resources through employment and a ordable energy sources. ere is a balance that we must maintain between a ordability and environmentally responsible policies. What measures do you support to improve voter accessibility, if any?

I hope you’re talking about accessibility of the voters to their elected o cials and that is imperative for our freedoms which are only secured by the citizens having input into legislation. I would establish o ces for ALL of the voters in CD4 and be available to hear their concerns through regular public forums. I would ensure that I would be appearing personally to each of my major towns in the district.

The six Republican candidates running for Colorado’s 4th Congressional District include, from left, U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, Deborah Flora and Colorado Rep. Richard Holtorf. COURTESY PHOTOS

CANDIDATES

Deborah Flora Republican deborah ora.com

Why do you want to serve now?

In the last three years, millions of illegal immigrants have crossed our border creating both a humanitarian and national security disaster. On the scal front, our debt is nearly $35 trillion and growing by approximately $1 trillion every 100 days. is is not only unsustainable, but immoral to put on the backs of our children and grandchildren. In ation and high taxes are devastating the hard-working people in our state and country. In Congress, I will stand for limited government so that Colorado families are able to raise their children, run their businesses, and live their lives free from extreme government overreach.

What steps should be taken to change current immigration policies, if any?

In Congress, I will work to secure our border, reinstate the “stay in Mexico policy,” end catch and release, ensure that funding for border agents is for patrolling not just processing, and end federal subsidies to cities and states that lay out a false welcome mat to illegal immigrants at the cost of taxpayers while blocking federal law enforcement. is is the best way to combat human tra cking, drug smuggling including the fentanyl that is devastating our communities, and the overwhelming of our infrastructure including hospitals and schools. Also, with numerous people on the terror watch list being apprehended on the border, this is key to our national security.

What will you do to support a vibrant economy within your congressional district?

As a congresswoman, I will work to make the tax cuts under the previous administration permanent and push for a balanced budget amendment to end the government’s overspending of citizens’ tax dollars. I will also push to unleash Colorado’s clean, a ordable energy, which will help the hard-working oil and natural gas workers in CD4 as well as drive down in ation for others. In other industries, I will work to streamline and lessen the regulatory burdens that are hindering the prosperity of small business owners and other job creators.

What is your position on U.S. participation and leadership in NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)?

NATO partnerships have played an important historic role in keeping our world and our country safer and I support continuing these strategic relationships with our key allies.

What additional protections, if any, are needed regarding energy production?

Colorado’s oil and natural gas workers already produce some of the cleanest oil and natural gas molecules in the world. anks to this innovation, our country is driving down emissions faster than anywhere else and yet Biden and the Democrats continue to put obstacle after obstacle in the way of cleaner energy production. Shrinking the world’s cleanest energy producer only shifts our reliance overseas, threatening our energy security, a ordability and reliability here at home.

What measures do you support to improve voter accessibility, if any?

The goal is free and fair elections. There is already wide accessibility, which needs to be balanced with commonsense safeguards such as Photo ID and continuing work to clean up

our voter rolls.

Jerry Sonnenberg

Republican sonnenbergforcongress.com/

Did not respond to questionnaire.

Peter Yu

Republican peteryuforcongress.com

Why do you want to serve now?

It is not my desire to serve. However, I am disappointed in our current elected o cials and people who are running for o ce. I am also disheartened by the policies put in place that are hurting Americans, not helping. Our United States 118th Congress is dysfunctional as they only passed 27 bills in 2023* and none of them were helpful in making the lives of American citizens better. As a result, I do not feel that I have a right to criticize or complain if I am not willing to run for o ce and show that I do have the best interest in hand for the citizens of our district and great nation. Today we see too much political grandstanding and the same commonly used campaign promises each election to appease a particular base. All the while, our country is more divided than we have seen in the last 50 years, and it is the people of our country who are a ected. Our elected o cials should focus on the needs of the people, and not on their own political gain. Our elected o cials need to understand that this is not a career but is a temporary opportunity to serve the people of their district, state, and country.

(*Note from Colorado Community Media: A total of 44 bills were passed in the 118th Congressional Session 2023/2024.)

The six Republican candidates running for Colorado’s 4th Congressional District include, from left, Colorado Rep. Mike Lynch, former Colorado Sen. Jerry Sonnenberg and Peter Yu. COURTESY PHOTOS

CANDIDATES

What steps should be taken to change current immigration policies, if any?

The United States of America has an estimated population between 330 and 340 million people. It is estimated that we will be at 400 million by the year 2050 and 500 million by the turn of the next century. The United States of America also has a national debt approaching 35 trillion dollars. It is estimated that within the next 20 years our largest financial obligation each year will be the interest payment on our national debt. America can no longer be a beacon of hope for the world as our resources are no longer able to take care of mass immigrants coming to America. We are creating a bill that will be paid off the backs of our children and our grandchildren. As a result, America needs to be able to enforce our current immigration and asylum laws. We need to stop catch and release as court dates are now 7 to 10 years out for those who come across the border. We need to assure that those coming across can show credible fear for asylum claims. We need to improve our immigration court cases by increasing the number of immigration judges so that cases are heard immediately. Finally, we need to discourage immigrants from coming to America as this is a danger to America and to the immigrants who make this dangerous journey. What will you do to support a vibrant economy within your congressional district?

A strong economy is the central point of every American achieving the American Dream. I will focus on limiting regulations within our district and country to ensure growth and expansion within Colorado. We must also assure that we utilize and support the industries that are abundant in our state. This would include agriculture, energy, technology, tourism, and most importantly small business growth. It is imperative that we provide protections to these industries against natural disasters, provide tax incentives for expansion, and create support of open markets so that these industries can minimize operational costs. I would also focus on education programs that allow for high-paying jobs and smaller financial education costs such as vocational careers. I would also push for funding assistance for small businesses as the jobs and tax revenue generated by a robust small business industry will be a boost to both Colorado and our country. What is your position on U.S. participation and leadership in NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)?

I support the United States and our place in NATO. I feel that this organization is vital to maintaining world peace and order. That being said, for the United States to remain part of NATO, we need EVERY country that are members to fulfill their GDP (Gross Domestic Product) financial requirement. The United States cannot and should not be the majority financier of this organization.

What additional protections, if any, are

needed regarding energy production?

The United States needs to have full capability to research and develop energy. Energy demands in the United States alone will increase by another 50% than what we are currently using by the year 2050 due to our population growth. Worldwide there are eight billion people and expected to be close to 10 billion by the year 2050. As a result, we are already experiencing energy shortages in America and worldwide, and it will only get worse. As an individual who has spent multiple years working in the renewable solar industry, I have a strong grasp of the energy sectors and our energy production. In America, according to the U.S Energy Information Administration (EIA), solar and wind are only about 6% of our total energy production, showing that we need all available energy sources to meet our growing demand. Without reliable and affordable energy, life as we know it will cease to exist. We need to ensure that we research all possible energy sources to maintain our way of life and to remain healthy as a society. Technology and research have made great advancements, and we need to open our energy production mindset so that we can produce realistic goals of affordable, reliable, and clean energy for the United States and the world.

What measures do you support to improve voter accessibility, if any?

I believe that we should create more voter accessibility by having mass in-person voting booths and locations throughout our district, state and country so that people can easily vote in-person and with minimal wait times to vote. This will allow for a convenient option for voters to get out to vote. This will also create pride and enthusiasm for a right that is special to all citizens of the United States.

Democratic candidates (in ballot order)

Trisha Calvarese

Democrat

trisha4colorado.com

Why do you want to serve now?

Recently, my mom and dad both passed away from cancer within days of each other. I know firsthand that seniors depend on the healthcare programs and benefits that we promised them. I will fight against any proposal that raises the retirement age or cuts Social Security and Medicare benefits. I’m fighting for the people and places often overlooked, to bring investments in generational climate, technology, and workforce legislation here to help our economy grow. As state after state bans abortion, I will fiercely oppose extremists who want to ban contraceptives, fertility treatments, and all abortions nationwide, with no exceptions for rape, incest, or when the life of the woman is at risk. In sharp contrast to Representative Boebert, I am a daughter of Colorado’s 4th Congressional District. And unlike Greg Lopez, I’m not just a “placeholder”, warming a seat for someone else. I’m running to serve the community that raised me. Furthermore, in a poll by Keating Research, the only firm in the country that accurately predicted a coin-flip race

in 2022 in Rep. Boebert’s current district, Colorado’s 3rd, which she only won by 546 votes. Keating Research showed that after simulating the election in a back and forth messaging contest, once voters learn more about Rep. Boebert and me, the race flips to 43% in support of my campaign and 34% supporting Rep. Boebert. What steps should be taken to change current immigration policies, if any?

Migrants are working for our farmers. They are serving our communities. A migrant worker was a part of my parents’ care team as they were in hospice. They are a critical part of our economy, and immigration is core to the foundation of our country. What I want to do is look at the root causes of this issue, and fix our broken immigration system to create legal pathways to citizenship and support farmers and businesses by ensuring that folks who are already here in our communities have legal pathways to stay, work, and contribute to our economy.

We had an opportunity to pass a bipartisan border bill this year, and Lauren Boebert and other Republicans put former President Trump first and didn’t pass it. I will work hard to support immigration policies that secure our border, protect our economic interests, and provide legal pathways for migrants to citizenship and continue contributing to our communities.

What will you do to support a vibrant economy within your congressional district?

I will work to create more opportunities for the people across District 4 to build their lives and support their families in the towns they love. That starts with supporting our farmers and ranchers and improving American competitiveness in manufacturing and technology to bring the jobs of tomorrow to the district and create more opportunities for working-class families close to home.

What is your position on U.S. participation and leadership in NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)?

I support our participation and leadership in NATO, because it is a joint commitment to defending our European allies, like Ukraine. I strongly support Ukraine’s fight against Russian aggression, because this conflict is also a matter of national security for the U.S. and the security of the wider world.

What additional protections, if any, are needed regarding energy production?

Colorado is among the top ten states in the country for energy production, and our share of renewable electricity production is growing. We can make Colorado a world leader in this area. I also understand deeply that workers need protections to ensure that they can support their families and stay in the communities they call home with high-paid, stable jobs. Through my roles working for the largest federation of unions in the country and the National Science Foundation, I was able to shape and help pass an anticipated $13 billion to make Colorado a world leader in renewable energy transmission through the Inflation Reduction Act.

CANDIDATES

I’m running to make sure those investments, from the largest climate bill in U.S. history, and the bipartisan CHIPS & Science Act, reach Eastern Colorado communities in the form of union jobs, education, and start-up opportunities in clean energy production. What measures do you support to improve voter accessibility, if any?

Colorado’s election system is the gold standard because we’ve deliberately lowered barriers to accessibility to the ballot. I believe strongly in upholding these accessibility measures, such as mail-in voting, early voting, and automatic voter registration. Across the country, however, voting access remains extremely variable, depending on where you live. I was at the AFL-CIO championing the John Lewis Freedom to Vote Act when it passed the House in 2021. Congress has tried and failed to restore the protections that were stripped away when parts of the Voting Rights Act were struck down in 2012 by the Supreme Court. Since those rollbacks, states have, in turn, rolled back voter protections by purging voter rolls, implementing onerous registration restrictions, gerrymandering districts, and limiting polling places, registration periods, and early voting. ese rollbacks have caused direct and disparate impacts on Black voters, voters of color, student voters, working voters, and older voters, to name a few. In Congress, I’ll work to re-

store the Voting Rights Act and block any limitations to voter access. We are best represented at all levels of government when all of us who can vote, can do so without barriers.

John Padora Jr Democrat padoraforcongress.com

Why do you want to serve now?

I aspire to serve in the United States Congress because I am deeply concerned about the challenges facing working families across our nation. Every day, I witness rsthand the struggles of hardworking Americans trying to make ends meet, while too many in Washington seem disconnected from these realities. e presence of numerous millionaires in Congress further underscores the urgent need for diverse voices representing ordinary citizens.

My motivation to serve stems from my experiences advocating for criminal justice reform and pushing for stronger environmental regulations. Seeing the positive impact these policies can have on communities has fueled my passion for public service. As a working-class father of three young children, I am acutely aware of the future they will inherit. I am driven by a sense of duty to ensure that they grow up in a country where opportunities are abundant, and where their voices are heard.

By serving in Congress, I aim to be a voice for the voiceless, to ght for economic justice, affordable healthcare, quality education, and a sustainable environment. I believe that by working together, we can create a brighter future for all Americans, regardless of their background or

socioeconomic status.

What steps should be taken to change current immigration policies, if any?

To reform current immigration policies with an empathic approach, several federal policies should be considered. First and foremost, a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who have been contributing positively to our communities for years is crucial. is pathway should include reasonable requirements such as background checks, English pro ciency, and payment of taxes.

Secondly, family reuni cation should be prioritized by reducing backlogs and wait times for family-based visas. Keeping families together is not only humane but also strengthens our communities.

Additionally, policies should be enacted to protect the rights of asylum seekers and refugees. is includes ensuring fair and e cient asylum processes, providing legal representation, and ending the practice of family separation at the border. Investing in comprehensive immigration reform that addresses root causes of migration, such as violence, poverty, and lack of opportunities in migrants’ home countries, is also essential. is can be achieved through diplomatic e orts, foreign aid, and cooperation with international organizations.

Furthermore, implementing humane detention practices, including alternatives to detention for nonviolent immigrants, and providing access to healthcare and legal assistance, are crucial steps towards a more empathic immigration system.

Three Democratic candidates are running in the June 25 primary for Colorado’s 4th Congressional District. From left, they are Ike McCorkle, Trisha Calvarese and John Padora. COURTESY PHOTOS

CANDIDATES

Overall, a compassionate and empathic approach to immigration policy recognizes the humanity and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, and seeks to uphold their rights while addressing the complexities of migration in a fair and just manner.

What will you do to support a vibrant economy within your congressional district?

To support a vibrant economy in Colorado’s 4th Congressional District, I will focus on several key initiatives. First, I will prioritize rebuilding our manufacturing sector by promoting policies that incentivize domestic production, such as tax credits for companies investing in local manufacturing facilities and training programs to develop a skilled workforce.

Improving agricultural subsidies for family-owned farms is another critical aspect. I will work to ensure fair and equitable subsidies that prioritize small and medium-sized farms, promote sustainable farming practices, and support local food systems. Additionally, I will champion policies that uplift small business owners, such as reducing regulatory burdens, providing access to affordable capital through grants and low-interest loans, and fostering entrepreneurship through mentorship programs and networking opportunities.

For working families, I will advocate for measures like increasing the minimum wage, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and supporting paid family leave policies. Strengthening education and job training programs will also be a priority to ensure that individuals have the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the evolving economy. By focusing on these areas, I believe we can create a more resilient and inclusive economy in Colorado’s fourth congressional district, benefiting both businesses and families alike.

What is your position on U.S. participation and leadership in NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)?

As a supporter of NATO and America’s leadership role on the global stage, I am committed to strengthening the alliance and ensuring that democratic values prevail. In Congress, I will work tirelessly to mitigate the influence of autocratic nations and uphold the principles of freedom, democracy, and security.

One key aspect of strengthening NATO is to enhance cooperation among member states through increased military interoperability, joint exercises, and intelligence sharing. By fostering a more integrated and unified approach, we can better address emerging security threats and deter aggression from autocratic regimes.

Additionally, I will advocate for robust funding for NATO initiatives and modernization efforts to ensure that member countries have the necessary capabilities to defend against evolving security challenges. This includes investing in cutting-edge technologies, cybersecurity mea-

sures, and strategic infrastructure.

Furthermore, I will support diplomatic efforts to engage with NATO allies and partner countries to promote democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law. By building strong diplomatic relationships and alliances, we can effectively counter the influence of autocratic nations and uphold a rules-based international order.

Overall, my commitment to NATO and America’s leadership role is rooted in the belief that collective security and democratic principles are essential for a peaceful and prosperous world. What additional protections, if any, are needed regarding energy production?

Enhancing federal protections for energy production requires a balanced approach that prioritizes environmental sustainability while ensuring a robust economy. One crucial aspect is to promote renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power through incentives, grants, and research funding. Encouraging the development and adoption of clean energy technologies not only reduces harmful emissions but also creates job opportunities and stimulates economic growth in the renewable energy sector.

Additionally, strengthening regulations and standards for fossil fuel extraction and production is essential to minimize environmental impact. This includes implementing stricter emission controls, monitoring and mitigating pollution from extraction sites, and holding companies accountable for environmental violations.

Investing in infrastructure for clean energy transmission and storage is another vital aspect of federal protection enhancements. Upgrading our grid systems to accommodate renewable energy sources effectively and reliably can significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving overall energy efficiency.

Furthermore, promoting energy efficiency measures in industries, buildings, and transportation sectors can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower carbon footprints while saving costs for businesses and consumers. Overall, a comprehensive approach that integrates renewable energy promotion, strict environmental regulations, infrastructure investment, and energy efficiency measures is crucial for enhancing federal protections for energy production while maintaining a strong and sustainable economy.

What measures do you support to improve voter accessibility, if any?

To bolster voter accessibility, federal legislation should focus on several key areas. First and foremost, implementing automatic voter registration nationwide would streamline the registration process and ensure that eligible citizens are automatically registered to vote when they interact with government agencies, unless they choose to opt out. Secondly, expanding early voting periods and establishing national standards for early voting hours would provide voters with more flexibility and convenience to cast their ballots, particu-

larly for those with work or childcare responsibilities.

Additionally, enacting measures to enhance accessibility for voters with disabilities, such as ensuring polling places are ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant and providing accessible voting options, is crucial to ensure that all Americans can exercise their right to vote independently and privately.

Moreover, investing in voter education and outreach programs to inform citizens about their voting rights, registration procedures, and election dates would help increase voter turnout and engagement.

Lastly, addressing issues related to voter suppression, such as discriminatory voter ID laws and gerrymandering, through federal legislation is essential to safeguarding democracy and ensuring that every eligible citizen has equal access to the voting process.

Ike McCorkle Democrat ike4co.com

Why do you want to serve now?

When I speak to voters all across the fourth, they tell me that they are extremely concerned about the foundations of our democracy and the threat posed by extremists like Lauren Boebert. The nation I fought so hard to defend is under attack from political extremism, and what we saw on January 6th can never happen again.

But it’s not just the insurrection that we should be alarmed about, it’s extremism from the Supreme Court stripping rights and freedoms away from women. It’s a Congress that has proven to be the least productive in American history, and all of these concerns stem from a broken system where paid-for politicians pander to the financial interests that line their pockets. The American people deserve better and I will win back America’s trust in our Congress and defend our democratic values.

What steps should be taken to change current immigration policies, if any?

The truth is that politicians like Lauren Boebert are dishonest partners in working to fix our broken immigration system. The last comprehensive immigration reform bill was passed nearly four decades ago, and when a bipartisan bill was on the table this year, members like Boebert cut and ran to preserve political talking points for an election, compromising our national security.

The crisis on the border is clearly out of hand and a responsible Democratic majority will increase border protections that are endorsed by the Border Patrol Union while modernizing our outdated visa system to meet the economic and humanitarian needs of the 21st century. That reform effort must also support DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and DAPA (Deferred Action for Parents of Americans) and establish a pathway to citizenship for those already living and working in our communities. The president is considering executive actions as well, and I would encourage him to act and act quickly.

What Douglas County voters need to know about the June primaries

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

ere is less than a month to go until the primaries and Special Congressional Vacancy Election this month. Representatives for federal, state and county o ces are on the ballot. Here’s what you need to know about voting.

Mail-in ballots for the June 25 elections were mailed June 3 to eligible voters. Ballots received by Douglas County may be counted starting June 10.

Registered Democrats and registered Republicans will receive ballots speci c to their party’s candidates. For instance, in the 4th Congressional District race, Democrats will decide between three primary candidates whereas Republicans will decide among six.

Both ballots also include candidates for state representatives for various districts and Douglas County Commissioner Districts. ere is also a Special Congressional Vacancy Election to temporarily ll the seat vacated by U.S. Rep. Ken Buck,

CANDIDATES

What will you do to support a vibrant economy within your congressional district?

To support a thriving economy in our congressional district, we must adopt comprehensive policies that address the needs of our diverse communities. First, we will support our farmers and ranchers in Eastern Colorado by passing the bipartisan Meat Packing Special Investigator Act. is legislation needs to combat agricultural monopolies, set quarterly minimums on cattle, and partner government funding with cattlemen coops to expand packing capacity and limit price xing, bene ting both producers and consumers. Additionally, we will pass a federal right-to-repair bill and fertilizer and equipment subsidy assistance program, while expanding water storage and distribution infrastructure to support communities and agriculture.

We must invest in workforce development. Currently, the United States ranks second to last among the world’s largest economies in workforce investment. To address this, I will champion legislation like Build Back Better that makes signi cant investments into training and apprenticeship programs. We must also invest in our energy sector, technologies, and programs that will expand our energy industry production and workforce. Emerging production technologies can secure livelihoods while protecting our children’s futures.

Ballots were mailed out to voters on June 3 for the June 25 election.

Finally we will continue collaborating with organizations like Action 22, Pro 15, and other NGOs (Non-governmental Organizations) that are committed to economic development in eastern Colorado. We will pass legislation that funds major energy and infrastructure projects, ensuring our farmers, ranchers, and industries have the resources they need.

What is your position on U.S. participation and leadership in NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)?

NATO, the United States, and our partners have guaranteed freedom of navigation and prevented major wars for the last 75 years. NATO plays a crucial role in our nation’s security and global stability. We must continue to support and lead along with our allies. We are now engaged in an international arms, space, and tech race with China, Russia, and their allies, North Korea and Iran. eir in uence is spreading across Africa, Asia, and even closer to home in Central and South America. e con ict in Ukraine signi cantly impacts global geopolitical stability, commerce, prosperity, and the security of Western democracies. American in uence and safety rely on global stability, and thousands of Americans have sacri ced their lives for that cause. If Ukraine falls to Russian control, Putin will not stop, and global stability will be dismantled. We must support Ukraine and increase every NATO member’s defense investment to 4% of GDP, as Poland has. is ght is much larger than Ukraine. e Russians and Chinese recognize

the Republican who unexpectedly retired earlier this year. e winner will complete Buck’s term, which ends in January.

Una liated voters will receive both ballots. However, only one ballot can be returned to be counted. According to the Douglas County website, if multiple ballots are returned in the same envelope, none of the ballots will count.  e winners of the Democratic and Republican Primary Elections will then appear on the ballot that will be mailed to voters in October for the General Election in November. Presidential candidates will also be on those ballots.

Voters registered with a minor party such as the Approval Voting Party or the Libertarian Party of Colorado will receive a ballot that only contains candidates for the Special Congressional Vacancy Election because no minor parties are holding a primary election.

this, and it’s high time we did the same. My commitment to the Western alliance is ironclad.

What additional protections, if any, are needed regarding energy production?

e Department of Defense considers climate change an imminent national security threat and our ranching and farming families in the district are feeling its e ects more and more every year. America has already begun a transition to renewable energy sources, but we must ensure protection for those who are working and depending on their careers in fossil fuel industries. A thoughtful transition that improves the economy in District 4 will never leave hard-working Coloradans behind. We must work directly with the workforces and communities that will inevitably be a ected to ensure that careers and jobs are available to them that are both ful lling and provide a similar wage as they have now.

What measures do you support to improve voter accessibility, if any?

e right to vote is the cornerstone of democracy, yet it faces unprecedented threats that seek to disenfranchise citizens and erode public trust in our electoral system. In Congress, I will call for robust measures to protect voting rights, including the introduction of civics education, automatic voter registration, mail-in paper ballots, and the restoration of the Voting Rights Act. Furthermore, I will advocate for making Election Day a national holiday, ensuring that every eligible citizen can exercise their right to participate in our democracy.

PRIMARIES

Candidates for the District 4 vacancy are Frank Atwood of the Approval Voting Party, Hannah Goodman of the Libertarian Party, Greg Lopez of the Republican Party and Trisha Eloise Calvarese of the Democratic Party. Of those candidates, only Calvarese is also named as a candidate for her party’s primary for the same office.

Voter Service and Polling Centers

Beyond mail ballots, Voter Services and Polling Centers will be opening up to the public across Douglas County in phases leading up to the election.

“Because Douglas County is also conducting a Special Congressional Vacancy Election in addition to the Primary Election in June, we must meet additional statutory criteria for the number of Voter Service and Polling Center locations, dates and hours of operation,” said Laura Skirde, communications project manager for the Douglas County Office of Clerk and Recorder.

These locations allow residents to register to vote or update their voter registration, replace a ballot or drop off a voted ballot as well as vote in person and use ADA accessible voting machines.

Phase one will take place on June 10, with locations in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch and Louviers. Early voting will run

through June 24 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekdays and June 22 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.. The locations include:

Douglas County Fairgrounds, located at 500 Fairgrounds Road.

Douglas County Parks and Trails Division, located at 9651 S. Quebec St.

Louviers Village Clubhouse, located at 7885 Louviers Blvd.

Phase two will include the addition of the Parker Library, located at 20105 E. Mainstreet. Early voting is available Friday, June 21 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, June 22 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and Monday, June 24 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Phase three will open on election day, June 25 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in additional locations in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch and Parker. These include:

Arapahoe Community College – Sturm Campus, located at 4500 Limelight Ave.

Crystal Valley Ranch Recreation Center, located at 2160 Fox Haven Dr.  Franktown Fire – Pradera Station, located at 6120 Bridle Path Ln.

Parker Fieldhouse, located at 18700 Plaza Dr.

All locations will be open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on Election Day.

An insert with the updated locations and times of these centers will be included in the Primary Election mail ballot packets, said Skirde.

Drop-box locations

Starting June 3 and through 7

p.m. on June 25, over 20 ballot drop-boxes will open across the county. These locations will be available 24 hours a day and are video monitored.

Castle Pines

Castle Pines Library, located at 360 Village Square Lane.

Castle Rock

Douglas County Elections, located at 125 Stephanie Pl.

Douglas County Office Building (walk-up location), located at 100 Third St.

The Grange, located at 3692 Meadows Blvd.

Douglas County Off-Leash Area, located at 110 Plum Creek Pkwy.

The Ridge House, located at 4501 Enderud Blvd.

Crystal valley Ranch Recreation Center (Walk-up location), located at 2160 Fox Haven Dr.

Highlands Ranch

Highlands Ranch Sheriff Substation, located at 9250 Zotos Dr.

Highlands Ranch Motor Vehicle, located at 2223 Wildcat Reserve Pkwy.

Douglas County Park and Trails Division (walk-up location), located at 9651 S. Quebec St.

Redstone Park Service Center (Walk-up location), located at 3280 Redstone Park Cir.

Larkspur

Larkspur Town Hall, located at 8720 Spruce Mountain Road.

Littleton area

Roxborough Marketplace (Walk-up location), located at 8357 N. Rampart Range Road.

South Suburban Sports Complex, located at 4810 E. County Line Road.

Sterling Ranch Civic Center, located at 8155 Piney River Ave.

Lone Tree

Lone Tree Motor Vehicle in Parker Meadows Center, located at 9350 Heritage Hills Cir.

Lone Tree Municipal Building, located at 9220 Kimmer Dr.

Parker

Parker Town Hall, located at 20120 E. Mainstreet.

Parker Police Department, located at 18600 Lincoln Meadows Pkwy.

Douglas County Facilities Building (Walk-up location), located at 9040 Tammy Ln.  EchoPark Stadium, located at 11901 Newlin Gulch Blvd.

Voters can also track the status of their ballot until it is counted in the Douglas County Elections office through BallotTrax. The ballot tracking and messaging system updates voters about the status of their ballot with notifications via phone, email or text. Voters can sign up for BallotTrax at douglas.ballottrax.net/ voter/.

To check your voter registration and for additional information about the June elections, go to the Douglas County website at douglas.co.us/elections/election-information/.

Group applauds new law amending end-of-life medical aid

BY ELISABETH SLAY ESLAY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Gov. Jared Polis has signed a bill that aims to make Colorado’s Endof-Life Options Act accessible to more people with terminal illnesses.

Senate Bill 24-068 waives mandatory minimum waiting periods for patients likely to die within 48 hours of requesting medical aid to end their lives.

Gina Gentry, campaign manager for Compassion and Choices, an advocacy group for the cause, called the passage of the bill a “huge success.”

“ e reduction of time between the rst and second oral requests from 15 days to seven days is crucial for dying people who don’t have the time to wait to access the compassionate end-of-life care option they are entitled to,” Gentry said.

e bill amends the End-of-Life Options Act, passed in 2016. e act allows terminally ill individuals in Colorado with six months or less to live to request medication from a medical professional to end their life.

Jacob Shannon, of Centennial,

Jacob Shannon, of Centennial with his mother Lynda Bluestein who used and changed Vermont’s medical aid-in-dying law in January and faced various barriers to access the care.

who supports the bill because his mother Lynda Shannon Bluestein used medical-aid-in-dying services, applauded the signing of the bill into law.

“We all have our own narrative of how we want our lives to end,” Shannon said. “None is right, and none is wrong. It’s our own.”

Shannon said his mother utilized services in Vermont in January after suing the state. Her e ort, he said, helped prompt changes in Vermont’s law, allowing people from outside the state to utilize the services.

Gentry said the bill also allows certain registered nurses with prescrip-

tive authority to act as the attending and consulting provider.

“I think it’s important to add – no patient, doctor, nurse, or pharmacist – would be required to participate,” Gentry said. “Health care facilities can opt-out and would be required to post their policy on their website.”

e bill attracted some opposition in the legislature, including from the Colorado Catholic Conference.

e conference told the Centennial Citizen it “laments the expansion of Colorado’s unjust physician-assisted suicide law.”

“So-called ‘medical aid-in-dying’ targets the most vulnerable in our society, corrupts the medical practice, distorts the patient-doctor relationship by violating a doctor’s commitment to the health of his patients, and disregards obligations to our elderly, disabled, or ill members of our community by viewing them as a burden,” the conference said.

Dr. Cory Carroll, national medical director of Compassion and Choices, said the shorter wait time in between requests is important for patients. He said the bill is a natural evolution for the act, which was passed eight years ago.

“I don’t think the bill will discourage those currently participating,” Carroll said. “As the years pass from 2016 more and more physicians have agreed to participate and I think this trend will continue.”

Nine other states and Washington, D.C. allow medical aid in dying options, according to Compassion and Choices.

California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington have made changes to their laws similar to the measures being considered by Colorado lawmakers.

States that have decreased their waiting periods for medical aid in dying have seen an increase in services.

In a study by Kaiser Permanente, 33% of qualifying patients who requested to use California’s End of Life Option Act died before completing the eligibility process in 2018, including 21% during the then-mandatory 15-day waiting period.

After lawmakers changed the waiting period in 2021 from 15 days to 48 hours, data shows nearly 50% more qualifying, terminally ill people were given access to aid-in-dying medication.

8 things to know before whitewater rafting

Local rafting expert provides summer safety tips

BY JOHN RENFROW JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Take a ride on some Rocky Mountain whitewater between hiking and camping this summer for a refreshing and fun- lled afternoon. But read this article rst.

Whitewater rafting is as notoriously Colorado as green chili, but it can be deadly if you’re not careful. According to stats from the National Institutes of Health in 2018, Colorado has led the nation in whitewater fatalities since 1975.

Fortunately, local experts, like the ones at Liquid Descent Rafting in Idaho Springs and Kremmling, have been leading safe excursions on the water since 2007, and their safety tips can save lives and create lifelong memories for mountain enthusiasts.

“We’ve got it gured out in Colorado,” Liquid Descent Owner Alan Blado said. “Especially on Clear Creek. It snows all winter and we ride Love-

Liquid Descent Rafting in Idaho Springs, like most rafting companies, o ers beginner, intermediate and advanced rafting excursions for patrons. From first-timers to thrill-seekers, rafting has something for everyone. COURTESY OF LIQUID DESCENT RAFTING

land Ski Area and Echo Mountain and enjoy the snow. It melts, and we enjoy it as it runs down the hills on rafts and kayaks. en it ows into Golden and we make a bunch of beer.”

Blado said he’s showing tourists and inexperienced rafters the ropes every day, so he helped us come up with eight things to know before hitting the water this summer.

1. Rafting season tentatively runs from

May

through August

Generally, May 15 is the target date for rafting season to open up, but it all depends on forces bigger than us.

“It just kind of depends on when the creek gets high enough to run; weather determines that,” Blado said. “So, like this year, it’s been a slow build because it’s been colder than it usually is, which is great because the longer the river takes to peak (hit maximum ow) the longer the season is going to last.”

With the strong snowpack this past winter (the best since 2019) along with a cool spring, Blado said it’s shaping up to be a long and successful season.

“Not only is the season going to last longer, but the river is going to provide more excitement and more fun,” he said.

Blado anticipates the season running through August, but it depends on the water and the weather.

2. You technically don’t need to know how to swim, but it’s encouraged Depending on the adventure option you choose, it’s not necessary to know how to swim. But it’s always encouraged, especially when rafting through Clear Creek, which can be

more dangerous than most rafting locations.

At Liquid Descent, the ability to swim is not required on the Upper Colorado, Clear Creek Beginner and Clear Creek Intermediate trips. Participants must know how to swim for the Clear Creek Advanced and Gore Canyon trips.

“We hope that people know how to swim when they do the beginner or intermediate trips, but we don’t require it,” Blado said.

3. You must sign a waiver before going whitewater rafting

All whitewater rafting participants must sign a waiver. Parents or guardians must sign for individuals under the age of 18.

You can nd the digital waiver on Liquid Descent’s website.

4. Colorado Parks & Wildlife requires 50 hours of on-river training for guides Guides are required to be seasoned professionals before taking the public on rafting expeditions. Colorado Parks & Wildlife requires 50 full hours of on-river training before being allowed to take customers

WHITEWATER

out on the water.

But Blado requires more.

“If you ask me, that’s nowhere near enough to guide on Clear Creek,” he said. “Because Clear Creek is a little bit steeper and there’s some aggressive sections. So, even on the beginners’ section, we require our guides to have over 100 hours of on-river training before they can even think about taking customers.”

Blado said the state requirement is pretty minimal because, in a lot of cases, raft guides won’t be on as dangerous water as Clear Creek whitewater. at’s why he doubles the state requirement to ensure optimal training for guides and safety for customers.

5. Show up in street clothes with rafting clothes in hand

Obviously, you’re going to get wet. Because of this, avoid cotton clothes, jeans and other fabrics that absorb or hold a lot of moisture.  e best clothing to wear is quickdrying, synthetic fabrics that are comfortable under your wetsuit, which is required. Bathing suits are ideal choices.

Like most rafting companies, Liquid Descent provides wetsuits, splash jackets, personal oating devices and helmets. You can rent boots for $5 but can also bring any footwear with an ankle strap that remains securely on your feet (no ipops, Crocs, etc.).

6. No drugs or alcohol can be consumed before rafting

With steep rapids, jagged rocks in the water and fast-paced rafting, this rule is self-explanatory. ere is a no-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol (including marijuana) before whitewater rafting.

7. Prepare for a workout

Depending on the level of di culty or experience you choose for your rafting outing, prepare for a workout. Fighting the rapids with your paddle can be a strong exercise for the biceps, shoulders, triceps, quads and more.

Intermediate and advanced trips will be quite the workout, so don’t expect a leisurely trip if you choose a more di cult rafting option.  Customers are welcome to bring water on the bus to the raft site but it’s recommended not to bring personal devices on the boat.

8. Rafting is accessible to people of all ages and experience levels

Blado said a popular misconception about whitewater rafting is people might not think it’s accessible to everyone, but the variety of the Colorado landscape provides options for all.

“What’s awesome about Clear Creek is we have stretches for rst-

timers and young kids all the way up to adrenaline-seeking, adventurous people,” Blado said. “So Clear Creek is perfect for that. And we have everything in between. Whether you have small kids (age 5 and up) or someone who has a little bit of trepidation about rafting and you want to start out at a really mild stretch, we got that.”

Liquid Descent also has options for rst-timers or experienced adrenaline junkies who want the “real, Colorado whitewater experience.” Clear Creek is unlike other rivers because it’s constantly moving with little-to-no at water, making it a fun time for rafters of all ages and experience levels.

“I couldn’t design a better river to o er to customers,” Blado said. “ e trips are action-packed and fun and perfect for those looking to have some awesome whitewater experiences.”

For more information and FAQs, visit https://coloradorafting.com/.

Colorado Community Media to Hold its First 5K Run

BY JO ANN M. COLTON

ere is no better way to appreciate the beauty of Colorado than by witnessing all the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

from walking and/or running along our state’s many wonderful paths and scenic nature trails.

Join Colorado Community Media as we host our rst-ever 5K run on Saturday, Aug. 24, at Clement Park, 7306 W. Bowles Ave. in Littleton.

And, before the run, we want you to submit your own “Trail Tales,” including photos, to your local newspaper (events@coloradocommunitymedia. com). Tell us where you most enjoy going for a walk or a run in your commuor elsewhere in Colorado.

In turn, we will share many of those adventurous tales with the readers of our two dozen community newspapers in the weeks ahead of the run. About the 5k: It is scheduled to loop around Johnston Reservoir from 9:30 a.m. to noon. It will start and end on the bike path near Shelter P. e event is di erent from most 5k runs in many ways. For starters, the sole purpose of this event is to simply provide an opportunity for people across Colorado to come together, interact, and share their personal experiences gained

ere are no prizes associated with the event and participants will not receive a “standard” T-shirt. Instead, registered participants will receive a pair of custom running socks. e Share Your Trail Tales 5k Run is open to people of all ages. Participants have the option of making it a fun- lled day for the entire family. Registration fees are $35 for adults (ages 17 & up), $15 (ages 5 to 16), and free for children (ages 4 and under ). Parking for run participants and event attendees is available in the west parking lot, which can be reached as you enter Clement Park through the Library entrance on W. Bowles Avenue.

ent Park is currently being rmed up to feature other activities throughout the day including food and beverage purchase options o ered by local food trucks, vendor booths, and live music entertainment.

“Your support of this event as a race participant and/or as an attendee is paramount to the success of our rst Share Your Trail Tales 5k Run and it will help us sustain our ability to support local news,” Scott said. “We encourage the engagement of our readers and future readers to be part of this and future events at Colorado Community Media.”

Colorado Community Media publications span eight counties along Colorado’s majestic Front Range — Weld, Adams, Je co, Clear Creek, Douglas, Elbert, Arapahoe and Denver. As a nonpro t organization, community is important to us and we are eager to reach out and meet members of the communities our news organization serves.

Carlie Scott, Colorado Community Media’s events director, stated that the program for the Aug. 24 run in Clem-

Colorado Community Media could not put on events like this 5k run without the help of its dedicated supporters and sponsors. Sponsorship provides an ideal marketing prospect for your business and positive brand recognition. e organization o ers many levels of sponsorship and opportunities for involvement. As a sponsor, you can be part of a fun community event that promotes health and wellness.

To register for the Share Your Trail Tales 5k please visit our website www.coloradocommunitymedia.com and click on EVENTS/CONTEST tab.

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13-16, 2024

Shopping H FOOD H EXHIBITS H MUSIC H RIDES

FUN THINGS TO DO:

• Enjoy your Favorite Festival Food

• Shopping Marketplace

• Music on Four Stages

• Carnival Rides for the Whole Family

• Free Kids Crafts

• Silent Disco – Dance, Dance, Dance!

• Bungy Jumping

• Jump and Slide on the In atables

AIR ACADEMY CREDIT UNION

EAST MUSIC Stage – Live Music ALL Day

Friday 8 pm – 10 pm Sisters of Rock

Saturday 8 pm – 10 pm

Shelvis and the Roustabouts

Sunday 6:30 pm – 8 pm

Lies or Lullabies

ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Community Stage – Entertainment ALL Day

THURSDAY, JUNE 13 1 pm – 10:30 pm: Carnival Only

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

Fri 1 pm – 10:30 pm: Carnival Fri 4 pm – 10:30 pm: Festival

SATURDAY, JUNE 15 Sat 10 am – 10:30 pm

SUNDAY, JUNE 16

Sun 10 am – 8:30 pm

MAIN STAGE – Live Music ALL Day HEADLINERS:

Friday, June 14 presented by

8:00 pm – 10:30 pm: Kory Brunson Band Saturday, June 15 presented by 8:30 pm – 10:30 pm: Wash Park Band Sunday, June 16 presented by 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm: That Eighties Band

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

CARNIVAL RIDES & GAMES: presented by

BUY DISCOUNTED UNLIMITED CARNIVAL RIDE WRISTBANDS ONLINE

Single-Day Unlimited Carnival Rides: $35 each

Good any one day during the festival

Sold online through 12 noon Wed. June 12

4-Day MEGA Unlimited Carnival Rides: $89 each

Good all 4 days of the festival

PURCHASE DURING THE FESTIVAL

Single-Day Unlimited Carnival Rides: $40 each

TICKETS FOR INDIVIDUAL RIDES

Food, Beverage & Ride Tickets may be purchased at Festival Ticket Booths.