Parker is ‘vibrant’ amid growth of businesses, jobs and homes
BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Elected o cials, town workers, business owners and others – nearly 100 in all – gathered at the PACE Center in Parker for the 15th annual State of the Town Business Breakfast and Impact Awards on Tuesday.
Mayor Je Toborg told the audience at the event hosted by the Rotary Club of Parker that the community continues to grow.
“ e state of our town is bursting with economic opportunity, with new businesses choosing Parker to start their dreams,” said Toborg.
As the commercial sector grew, public safety improved. e Parker Police Department received its fourth Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement and its third certi cation for excellence in communications. e department now has 91 commissioned o cers.
e department also added a seventh school resource o cer, two K9s, increased tra c enforcement and welcomed a drone program.
Boebert nabs endorsement from top Douglas County Republican P2
“We will keep Parker safe, we will keep our o cers safe,” said Toborg. “If numbers is the way to do it and by giving them the tools that they need, that’s the way we’re gonna do it.”
Parker Arts, now with 500 members, also grew. In 2023, the PACE Center was named a Denver Metro Top Arts and Culture Facilities Top 10 attraction and was nominated for 13 Henry Awards for its productions.
Due to the town’s growth, residents also saw the beginning of roadway expansions and construction, such as the Chambers Road Extension, sidewalk and curb improvements along Mainstreet and the Dransfeldt Road Extension, which Toborg said will pave the
VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 23 WEEK OF MAY 16, 2024 FREE VOICES: 14 | LIFE: 16 | CALENDAR: 19 | PUZZLES: 32 PARKERCHRONICLE.NET • A PUBLICATION OF COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA
U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert holds her grandchild at the Republican Women of Weld candidate forum Jan. 25 at the Fort Lupton Recreation Center. Boebert is running for election in Colorado’s 4th District.
PHOTO BY BELEN WARD
SEE GROWTH, P10
Boebert nabs endorsement from top Douglas County Republican
SPEAK OUT!
BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Douglas County Commissioner George Teal endorsed U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert in Colorado’s 4th Congressional District race, an indication that the congressional representative who recently moved away from the Western Slope, and will soon vacate her seat there, is gaining support in Republicandominated Douglas County.
In a statement, Teal praised Boebert as a principled Republican.
“Congresswoman Lauren Boebert has shown Coloradans she will vote in support of our conservative values, no matter what the Swamp throws her way,” Teal wrote in his endorsement. “She has been the clear, principled voice we need in Congress while getting things done for Colorado, from critical economic development legislation to securing funding for water and infrastructure projects in our state.”
Boebert said in her post announcing the endorsement that she’s excited to work with Teal in the future.
Teal, a Republican, is running for
re-election to the Board of County Commissioners.
Boebert, who is facing numerous challengers in the Republican primary in June, has also been endorsed by former President Donald Trump, the Colorado GOP and its chair Dave Williams, former state Rep. Patrick Neville and Weld County Sheri Steve Reams.
Of the other candidates in the race, former talk radio host Deborah Flora, of Parker, and former state Sen. Jerry Sonnenberg, of Sterling, have also stacked up notable endorsements from local and state conservatives.
Flora’s include former state Lt. Gov. Jane Norton, Douglas County Sheri Darren Weekly, the Gazette Editorial Board and two former candidates running to represent the 4th district, Floyd Trujillo and Chris Phelen.
Endorsing Sonnenberg are former U.S. Sens. Cory Gardner, Wayne Allard and Hank Brown, as well as state Sen. Byron Pelton and numerous county commissioners. Congressional candidate Peter Yu’s website says he doesn’t accept endorsements.
May May 16, 2024 2
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Candidate Deborah Flora Jan. 25 during the Republican Women of Weld’s Congressional District 4 debate in Fort Lupton.
PHOTO BY BELEN WARD
Candidate Jerry Sonnenberg speaks Jan. 25 during the Republican Women of Weld’s Congressional District 4 debate in Fort Lupton.
PHOTO BY BELEN WARD
U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, who is angling to be elected in Colorado’s 4th District, has been endorsed by Douglas County Commissioner George Teal.
PHOTO BY ELISABETH SLAY
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EPA Launches ‘Energy Star NextGen’ to Identify Homes
The Federal EPA’s Energy Star designation has been around since 1992. Initially, it was applied to appliances that exceeded standard levels of efficiency, but in 1995 the designation started being applied to new homes as a whole.
The Energy Star designation no doubt had the effect of governments and industry beginning to focus on energy efficiency, so a Version 2 with even higher standards was introduced in 2006, and a Version 3 was introduced in 2011.
The first paragraph on the Energy Star website reads as follows: Your home is your place to thrive. By choosing a new ENERGY STAR NextGen certified home or apartment, you can enjoy all the comfort, quality, value, and indoor air quality benefits you’ve come to expect from the ENERGY STAR label — and much more.
That Are More Fully Electrified
With energy efficiency going more and more mainstream, the EPA has now introduced Energy Star NextGen instead of Version 4. As described on www. EnergyStar.gov, the NextGen certification “recognizes homes and apartments equipped with leading-edge, efficient electric technologies and electric vehicle charging capabilities — features that not only improve your lifestyle, but also the health of the planet.”
Energy Star NextGen-certified homes come with Energy Star certified heat pumps for heating and cooling, heat pump water heaters, induction cooktops, and electric vehicle charging capabilities. With national and local building codes now requiring greater energy efficiency, a NextGen-certified home is now only 20% more efficient than homes that are “built to code.”
High-performance windows, a tighter building envelopes and enhanced insulation are also common in this top category of energy efficient housing.
Archive of Past Columns Is Online
Over the past two decades, this column has appeared in local weeklies and the Denver Post, and during that time I’ve written about every conceivable topic related to real estate. You can find and search that archive online at www.JimSmithColumns.com
Many or even most builders have been building “Energy Starcertified” homes since as early as 2002. An estimated 2.7 million homes have been built with that certification, but Thrive Home Buildings is the only Colorado builder I’m aware of that is committed to building and selling homes with the Energy Star NextGen certification.
Here are the advantages spelled out by the Energy Star website for buying a new home with the NextGen certification.
Lower energy bills. Superior insulation, air sealing, and highly efficient heat pumps help lower your energy bills, while improving comfort and reducing drafts.
Improved safety and indoor air quality. Electric cooktops and ovens reduce exposure to harmful combustion byproducts — including carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and small particulates.
Peace and quiet. Multi-speed heat pumps run on low most of the time, making them quieter while delivering more consistent temperatures for greater comfort. Ductwork that has been properly sized further reduces noise from the air handler. High levels of insulation make the home quieter by reducing noise from outdoors.
This bi-level home at 11296 W. Kentucky Dr. 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 house is white with blue shutters and gutters, and a blue & white garage door was new in 2009. The seller put in a new, energy efficient furnace in 2014 and new acrylic shower and shower doors in 2007. The backyard is mostly flat now (due to the seller rocking the sloping landscape) 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. Briarwood Hills is a very quiet, friendly neighborhood. Most of the surrounding homeowners care about their yards, as does this seller. You will find magazine-quality photos and a narrated video tour at www.LakewoodHome.info Call listing agent Jim Swanson at 303-929-2727 to request a showing.
Increased resale value. High-performance homes sell for significant price premiums compared to typical homes. Energy Star certified and similarly efficient homes enjoy sales price premiums of up to 6%.
A clean energy future. The electric and hybrid electric technologies in your Energy Star NextGen home will help to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions and climate impact associated with its operation. These benefits will continue to grow as the grid gets cleaner.
Retrofitting a non-Energy Star home to be more energy efficient or even “net zero energy” (meaning all-electric and generating all the electricity needed for the home through solar panels) is something that Golden Real Estate’s broker associates and I are committed to facilitating for our buyer clients. Personally, I am offering a free home energy audit to any buyer who hires me between now and September 30th to purchase an existing home.
A home energy audit involves doing
a blower-door test to locate the various air leaks in a home so that specific steps can be taken to make the home more airtight. All appliances are evaluated and the homeowner is given a road map of different strategies that could be taken. We also have experience recommending all categories of vendors working with homeowners to improve insulation, install higher performance windows and doors, and to replace gas appliances with high-efficiency electric heat pump appliances.
We can help you find the best company to install solar panels, whether roof top or ground-mounted, or even in a distant solar garden, where the electricity you generate is credited to the electric meter in your home, condo or apartment. You don’t need a roof to benefit from solar power!
The company which I have hired for all five of my solar power installations, starting in 2004, is Golden Solar. I don’t ask or receive a referral fee when you act on my recommendation, but the owner, Don Parker, kindly helped me out when I needed a place to park our free moving truck after I sold our office building on South Golden Road. It and our box shed are now parked on his lot on South Golden Road. Thanks, Don! You can reach Don on his cell phone, 720-234-6517. Tell him I said hello!
There’s a Full-Blown Home Insurance Crisis Brewing
I need some help researching this article. If you’re in the insurance industry or have information that can benefit fellow readers, let me hear from you. I’d also like to hear from legislators about possible new laws.
Here’s an email I got from an Estes Park homeowner, Jay Blackwood:
My bank says that in the metro area a single family home may have insurance costs double this year. In the mountains it’s much worse.
Without warning, my condo association in Estes Park was told in January that American Family would drop us on the anniversary of our policy in April. This was due to our high risk of fire and hail. In 44 years we only have had one claim, for hail.
Apparently each insurance company has a secret risk map and decides if a property can
be insured depending on location and tree density.
We spent three months searching for a new policy and were forced to purchase a high risk one. Last year we paid $ 20,000. This year it’s $340,000 for 3/4 of the coverage. That is 17 times as much.
My total HOA fees last year were about $4,000. This year they are $14,000.
Other local condo associations are experiencing similar crises. Some businesses and even a large church are going uninsured. A builder has houses completed which cannot sell because they can’t be insured. Colorado is right behind California in loss of insurance. The State is dragging its feet on this issue. And news media don’t seem to cover it.
Individual horror stories are interesting, but I’ll looking for insights into addressing this problem that I can share in a future ad.
Jim Smith
Broker/Owner, 303-525-1851
Jim@GoldenRealEstate.com 1214 Washington Ave., Golden 80401
Broker Associates:
JIM SWANSON, 303-929-2727
CHUCK BROWN, 303-885-7855
DAVID DLUGASCH, 303-908-4835
GREG KRAFT, 720-353-1922
AUSTIN POTTORFF, 970-281-9071
KATHY JONKE, 303-990-7428
“Concentrate on giving and the getting will take care of itself.” —Anonymous
3 May 16, 2024
Now only $549,000 Price Reduced on 3-BR Briarwood
Home
Hills
County numerRepublican enDonand former Weld the Deboformer of noand Lt. County Gazette former represent and forGardner, as and commissioners. Peter accept
100 Women Who Care makes $10,000 donation
BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Pawsitive Restorations Animal Rescue received over $10,000 at the one-year anniversary celebration of Douglas County’s chapter of 100 Women Who Care.
Once a quarter, the group, which numbers nearly 130 women, gather to learn about three nonpro ts from around the county. By the end of the meeting, the group votes on which nonpro t its members will give funds to.
“It’s supporting all of the deserving nonpro ts in our local community,” Suzanne Wexler, the founder of the Douglas County chapter, said.
Pawsitive Restorations is a nonpro t that rescues, rehabilitates and houses at-risk animals. Its founder, Krissy Mosbarger, was brought to tears — and at a loss for words — when 100 Women Who Care announced the recipient.
“[We are] a local organization that has spent the last eight years working hard to save the lives of these unseen, discarded pets and to reduce the number of animals entering our overcrowded shelters,” Ruth Whalen, a volunteer said. e organization goes across the state, and to neighboring states, to take in sick, injured, neglected and abused dogs, including those discarded from the pet trade.
Many of these animals are turned away by other groups due to the high cost of medical care and length of stay needed to heal. With some dogs’ care having cost between $10,000$17,000, Mosbarger said the funds are needed.
Although the funds will help with medical bills, the organization is also looking for foster homes.
“We had 98 of our pets last year who became permanent DougCo residents whose families use our local vet shops,” said Whalen.
With experience working with a homeless shelter while living in Chicago and as a court-appointed special advocate for abused and neglected children, Wexler experienced rst-hand how funds bene t a nonpro t. at’s why she decided to join 100 Women Who Care, a national organization.
Wexler had considered creating a South Metro Denver chapter when she moved to Colorado six years ago,
but she saw how many nonpro ts there were in Douglas County alone. So, she established a county-focused chapter.
“I’m all about philanthropy,” said Wexler. “It’s in my blood, it’s what I do.”
rough her work with Aging Resources of Douglas County and a sack lunch program run from her home, Wexler was able to get women interested in joining the group.
“ e goal is to get as many women involved, because that’s how nonpro ts bene t,” said Wexler.
In one year, the group has donated over $60,000 to four local nonprofits. YANA, a peer-to-peer support system for moms, e Aspen E ect, which provides activities for youth to help prevent mental health crises,’ Covered Colorado, which works with sex tra cking survivors, and Backpack Society, which collects food donations and raises funds for students who struggle with food insecurity.
e previous recipient, June Everett, the founder of Backpack Society came back to express her gratitude for the $12,800 that allowed the organization to provide over 12,000 student bags to children and add two additional schools.
At each meeting, three nonpro ts give a ve-minute presentation followed by a Q&A. Brochures of the organizations are laid out for the women “to nd where their passions lie.”
“We laugh, we cry, you know, everything in between, just learning about amazing organizations that may never have crossed our path before,” said Wexler.
e women then vote by secret ballot for which nonpro t they would like to support. Each member writes a check for $100 to the selected organization and within one hour, more than $10,000 is raised.
Two other organizations were considered at the anniversary meeting.
Run by Kathy and Mike Hulley, e Mane Mission utilizes animal assisted therapy to help improve mental health and focus working with people with intellectual developmental disabilities.
“ e main mission of e Mane Mission is to use the human and animal bond to promote joy, hope and healing,” said Deg
e Douglas Land Conservancy protects and conserves the natural character, ecosystems, habitats and open spaces of Douglas, Elbert and Je erson counties. e organization has preserved over 27,000 acres with over half of that acreage open and free to the public.
e nonpro ts go through a vetting process, said Wexler, to ensure that all monies the group donates stays in Douglas County.
“ ey have to support either animals or people in Douglas County and there can’t be any religious or political component,” said Wexler.
May May 16, 2024 4
Krissy Mosbarger, left, the founder of the Pawsitive Restorations Animal Rescue nonprofit and volunteer Ruth Whalen spoke to a group of women about why they should receive funds for their organization.
PHOTO BY HALEY LENA
Castle Rock man pleads guilty to murdering his mother
BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
A Castle Rock man has pleaded guilty to fatally stabbing his mother in her Highlands Ranch home in 2022.
Matthew Buchanan, 34, pleaded guilty to charges of second-degree murder, attempted rst-degree murder and attempted aggravated animal cruelty on Monday in
Douglas County District Court.
“It’s despicable to learn a son would kill his own mother in a brutal act of violence,” 18th Judicial District Attorney John Kellner said. “ is plea avoids a lengthy, gruesome, and emotional trial.
I’m advocating for the maximum sentence under Colorado law to protect the community from this defendant.”
Buchanan is facing up to 48 years
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in prison for the second-degree murder charge. He will be sentenced on July 24.
On April 26, 2022, o cers responded to a house re on Dove Valley Place in Castle Rock. At the house, police found Elizabeth Bjorlow, Buchanan’s mother, deceased in her kitchen with wounds on her face, hands and feet. Bjorlow’s clothes had been set on re. Prosecutors say Buchanan set
the house on re with a man and two dogs inside. First responders rescued the man, who told them Buchanan and Bjorlow were arguing before the re.
Doorbell camera footage showed a white minivan, later identi ed as Buchanan’s, leaving the house before rst responders arrived.
Buchanan was arrested in Florida in May 2022, and extradited back to Douglas County to face charges.
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Citing migrants, Castle Rock poised to cooperate with county on ordinance
BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Castle Rock is moving forward with an agreement that would allow a new Douglas County ordinance banning buses from making “unplanned” passenger drop-o s to be enforced within the town.
Town council members voted unanimously to draft an agreement to adopt the county’s ordinance, which came in response to the tens of thousands of mostly Venezuelan migrants arriving in Denver, many of which have been sent by the Texas governor.
e agreement would allow the sheri ’s o ce to enforce the ban on unplanned passenger drop-o s in Castle Rock, which has its own police department.
According to the Douglas County Sheri ’s O ce, deputies have not received any calls for service regarding unplanned drop-o s.
Council members called the ordinance a preventative step to deter migrants from coming to town.
“All laws are unnecessary until they become necessary and then it’s too late, so this is an action to dissuade, not an action of pure symbolism,”
council member Max Brooks said.
Council member Laura Cavey added that she believes being proactive is the right thing to do.
“I don’t think it’s an if this will happen, but a when,” she said.
e o ce of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, in March said that it has sent more than 100,000 migrants who crossed the U.S. border to “sanctuary” cities, including New York City, Los Angeles, and Denver.
e council also voted in favor of drafting a resolution supporting the county’s immigration lawsuit against the state.
Douglas County, along with El Paso and Elbert counties, is suing Colorado over two laws that prohibit law enforcement o cers from working with federal immigration agencies.
Town attorney Michael Hyman said Castle Rock doesn’t have standing to join the lawsuit because the town doesn’t have a detention facility, so it hasn’t been directly impacted by the laws.
Instead, Hyman recommended the council pass a resolution of support.
“We do think we’d have challenges in joining the lawsuit that we can’t
overcome to get our arguments in court,” he said. “We can certainly lend our morale, support and voice to the county.”
Council members Brooks, Cavey
and Tim Dietz also expressed interest in joining the lawsuit as individual taxpayers.
e council will vote on the resolution at its June 4 meeting.
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Castle Rock is looking to implement a county ordinance that bans unplanned passenger drop-o s, an attempt to deter migrants from coming to town. The town plans to enter an agreement with the county that will allow the sheri ’s o ce to enforce the law within town boundaries.
PHOTO BY MCKENNA HARFORD
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Elbert County seeks to overturn ban on immigration cooperation with feds
BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Elbert County is one of the latest counties to join a lawsuit challenging two Colorado laws that prevent local governments from cooperating with the federal government on matters of immigration.
Douglas County, which led the lawsuit with its neighbor to the south, El Paso County, framed the lawsuit as a response to the national migrant crisis.
“We hope to create an environment where local governments and the state can once again cooperate with the federal government and address a national crisis,” Douglas County Attorney Jeff Garcia has said. “We hope that by the work we do, we’re giving everyone a blueprint on how we can address a na-
tional problem.”
The Douglas County News-Press is not aware of any reports of mass numbers of migrants being dropped off in the county. Douglas County officials haveno record of any migrant or migrants being dropped off anywhere across the county by commercial buses, trucks or vans since December 2022, county staff said in late March.
The lawsuit complaint names Jared Polis in his capacity as governor of the state.
Chris Richardson, chair of the Elbert County commissioners, provided a statement to the Elbert County News about the lawsuit.
“Current statute unconstitutionally ties the hands of Colorado’s sheriffs,” Richardson said in the statement. “As illegal immigration across our nation’s southern bor-
ders continues unabated, local law enforcement must have every tool available to them.”
Douglas County, on May 6, filed an amended complaint to include Elbert and three other counties: Garfield, Mesa and Rio Blanco. A Douglas spokesperson said the amended complaint included no other changes.
The first law at issue in the case, passed by state lawmakers in 2019, bars law enforcement from arresting or detaining people for civil immigration violations. It also prohibits the sharing of judicial information to federal immigration authorities. The second law at issue, passed by state lawmakers in 2023, prevents local governments from making an agreement for federal immigration enforcement.
In the lawsuit complaint, coun -
ties argue that the state laws violate the Colorado Constitution.
“The ‘separation of powers’ doctrine arising from Article 3 of the Colorado Constitution, ‘prohibits one branch of government from exercising powers that the constitution vests in another branch,’” the complaint says, citing another court case.
The lawsuit complaint, filed April 15, also argues that one of the laws violates the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution.
“Federal law preempts state law when the two conflict, even when the two only arguably conflict,” the complaint says, citing another case.
The Denver District Court granted the state’s request for more time to respond in the lawsuit, giving it through June 11.
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“Parker just turned 43,” said Toborg. “We look young, but we need a little help in some areas.”
e town has also paid o debts associated with two major projects early.
Toborg said he views developers as partners in the community, and not as “big, bad people” taking away open space to build homes. One of the highlights for the town last year was opening the 72-acre Ray Harvey Open Space. e town also plans to expand Salisbury Park to include more baseball elds and pickleball courts.
e morning was not just reminiscing of what the town accomplished, it was about looking towards the future.
“As we focus on the future, we continue to support our existing businesses who are the bedrock of our community and of our economy,” said Toborg.
A new ve-story commercial and residential building has started construction and residents can also expect a parking garage, Whole Foods and an In and Out Burger as well as the town’s rst technology sector. A data center is planned in the northern part of town and is expected to bring about 70 new jobs.
e town is encouraging residents’
feedback as plans for updating the town’s Master Plan unfold. e last update was in 2012.
“ e hometown feel of Parker does not diminish with the size of the town,” said Toborg. “ e hometown feel exists in each one of us and we are all ambassadors of this town.”
Fundraising and the Impact Awards e event was also a fundraising opportunity for the local Rotary Club. A silent and live auction was estimated to raise about $32,500 for its service projects.
Since 2011, the club has awarded Parker residents who have made valuable contributions to the community. is year, Nate Smith and Mike Waid received the Rotary Club of Parker’s 2024 Impact Award.
Dan O’Neill, of the club, said these two men provide a service to the community that exempli es the model of “service above self.”
Smith has dedicated most of his life to helping young people. He is the Englewood High School assistant principal/athletic and activity director and, before that, was the Aurora Central High School assistant principal. Smith was recognized for his e orts in Parker.
Over the years, Smith has served the Boy Scouts in multiple facets, including a committee chair, den leader, assistant scoutmaster, district advance-
ment chair and more. Smith has also served two terms as Scoutmaster of Troop 16, Parker’s oldest and biggest troop. He currently is the representative for Troop 16, Pack 369 and a brand-new Venture Crew.
Since the troop started in 1973, the troop has produced 188 Eagle Scouts, 137 of those were in the last 22 years with Smith.
“ is community just bends over backwards to support their troops and that’s why we’ve had so much success,” said Smith.
Many may know Waid, as he was the Town’s sixth mayor who oversaw major town projects such as the construction of the Parker Fieldhouse, the Parker Library, the PACE Center and more.
Over his 20 years of living in Parker, Waid has helped found multiple nonpro ts and has become the Executive Director of the Douglas County Community Foundation, an organization that assists other nonpro ts in the area with grants, organizational and operational guidance.
Waid accepted his award by thanking his family, the club and rst responders but wanted to leave with one last statement.
“Instead of saying ‘do something every day that makes the world a better place,’ I’m going to say ‘do something every day to have a positive impact on our future,’” said Waid.
May May 16, 2024 10
The Town of Parker Mayor Je Toborg was the keynote speaker for the 2024 State of the Town Business Breakfast and Impact Awards hosted by the Rotary Club of Parker Foundation. Toborg spoke about public safety, economic development and future plans for the town.
PHOTOS BY HALEY LENA
Rotary club member Dan O’Neill presented Nate Smith, a Parker resident, with an Impact Award. Smith has worked with Boy Scout Troop 16 in Parker for over two decades and is currently a representative for Pack 369 and a brand-new Venture Crew.
FROM PAGE 1
Douglas County superintendent highlights achievements
BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Douglas County schools o er one of the best deals for taxpayers in any district in the metro area, according to district Superintendent Erin Kane, who shared the accomplishments and challenges of the past year during the State of the District address. e rst annual State of the District celebrated students’ high test scores on the Colorado Measures of Academic Success, with 72% of students meeting or exceeding standards, the highest in the area.
Last year, local voters approved a $66 million mill levy override to increase sta pay and improve school security. Even with the increase, Kane said Douglas County has the lowest mill levy rate – a tax on property owners – compared to surrounding districts.
“To our taxpayers and our community, we are a pretty good return on investment,” Kane said. e State of the District celebrated wins, like the purchase of a new school building for students with disabilities, rolling out universal pre-kindergarten and providing free lunches to all students and sta .
Several schools were honored with 46 awards from the Colorado Department of Education.
Ten schools received the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award for exceptional student growth; 35 schools received the John Irwin Schools of Excellence Award for academic achievement and one school received the National Blue Ribbon Award for high academic outcomes.
“We are incredibly proud of the academic success of the schools in
Douglas County School District Superintendent Erin Kane presented the past year’s accomplishments and challenges at the first State of the District address at the Legacy Campus. Kane said the district o ers taxpayers one of the best returns on investment of any district in the metro area.
PHOTO BY MCKENNA HARFORD
Douglas County,” Kane said. “( ese schools) didn’t get there on accident. It took incredible focus and hard work for the sta , leaders, kids and families to work together to accomplish amazing things.”
e address also highlighted a handful of graduating seniors, who spoke about how the schools supported them and helped prepare them for college and careers.
Touching on future goals, Kane said the district needs voters to pass a bond to build new schools and maintain existing buildings and student opportunities.
Douglas County hasn’t approved a bond for capital investment since 2018, and the district is starting to dip into reserves to pay for urgent repairs.
“Losing (the bond) twice has meant it’s been very challenging for us to keep our schools in good condition,” Kane said.
In 2023, the failed bond measure included more than $250 million to build three new elementary schools and expand two middle schools. A district school was last built in 2010.
11 May 16, 2024 PORTABLE OXYGEN FOR YOUR ON-THE-GO LIFESTYLE CLAIM YOUR RISK-FREE TRIAL1 14-DAY Call us toll-free at 1-844-823-0293 114-day risk-free trial- Return within 30 days of purchase for a full refund of purchase price. PM230469 EN_EX_USA | Rx Only. © 2023 Inogen, Inc. 301 Coromar Drive, Goleta, CA 93117 Inogen® is a trademark of Inogen, Inc. The usage of any Inogen, Inc. trademark is strictly forbidden without the prior consent of Inogen, Inc. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners or holders. When it comes to decks, think outside the square. The Art of Outdoor Living LIMITED OFFER schedule by July 15 to recieve a Complimentary Deck Upgrade! (up to a $1000 value) Financing Available! Schedule your FREE consultation today! Call - 303.277.1550 Visit - DECKTEC.COM DeckTec.com
also of biggest represena the Scouts, years over and sucwas oversaw conthe and Parker, nonExecutive Comorganization the and thankreone evbetter something on
University of Denver to make its electricity 100% solar
BY MICHAEL BOOTH THE COLORADO SUN
The University of Denver’s push for national name recognition in sports has proven wildly successful, with another hockey championship in 2024 and top programs in lacrosse, soccer and gymnastics. Now the southeastern Denver anchor is doubling down on becoming a green energy leader for its peers.
DU, with partner Pivot Energy, plans to build enough new solar panels on campus and at dedicated solar farms in surrounding counties to completely offset university electricity use within about three years.
The push to install 23 megawatts of panels dedicated to DU’s energy use is a key part of the institution’s commitment to become net zero in carbon emissions by 2030, said Lynn Bailey, director of energy and sustainability for the southeastern Denver campus. Next up on the green energy list: cutting way back on natural gas
used to heat DU’s buildings and hot water.
DU started its solar era in 2019, working with Pivot to install 2.2 MW of panels on 18 campus buildings. In the next phase, Pivot will add 1.2 MW more on campus, with a new array on the expansive rooftops of the Ritchie Center sports complex. (Home of the hockey Pioneers, who last month won their 10th national championship and second in three years, accumulating more trophies than storied schools from Minnesota, Michigan and Massachusetts.)
Pivot will build the other 22.2 MW for DU at dedicated sites in Larimer, Adams, Mesa and Weld counties, over the next two to three years, Bailey said. In most cases, DU will be taking 100% of the power from those far-flung solar arrays, providing Pivot certainty and simplicity among its energy customers.
The solar expansion alone will wipe out half of DU’s remaining
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Solar panels atop the Burwell Center for Career Achievement, seen May 1, 2024, at the University of Denver.
SEE
PHOTO BY OLIVIA SUN THE COLORADO SUN VIA REPORT FOR AMERICA
SOLAR, P13
SOLAR
carbon footprint as it seeks other projects to meet the 2030 net zero carbon goal.
“We’ve always been trying to figure out other ways to work with DU because we knew they had ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals,” said Pivot vice president of strategic partnerships Mat Elmore. “It’s been a great match so far.”
Pivot says an added motivation for DU and other institutions who are landlords of large square footage are the Denver and statewide building emissions reductions mandated in recent rule changes. Colorado’s rules seeking greenhouse gas reductions from big buildings require commercial buildings larger than 50,000 square feet to cut building-related emissions by 20% in 2030.
Those rules are now subject to an injunction-seeking lawsuit filed by major landlords like apartment associations, but remain in effect
Watch Your Business
GROW
for now and may survive the legal challenge.
Colorado law allows DU to get net metering credit for solar power it creates, even when at offsite locations like Pivot’s community solar sites, Elmore said.
“That program is really made for, in my opinion, large campuses or large energy users that just can’t install enough on-site generating capacity to meet their needs” but who have ambitious climate
The RidgeGate calendar of fun starts here.
change targets, he said.
Pivot has developed 79 Colorado solar projects producing up to 70.8MW of electricity, with 124 more in the pipeline that would bring on 530MW. Nationally, the company has developed 179MW and has 2,714MW in the pipeline.
A megawatt can serve 400 to 1,000 households, depending on the size of the home or apartment and how many appliances are electric.
The number of off-site, net-me-
Yoga in the Park
tered megawatts allowed to come online in a given year is limited, according to Pivot, which says it is the largest solar developer in Colorado.
“Bottom line is we have far more demand than supply for this particular program,” Elmore said.
This story was printed through a news sharing agreement with The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned nonprofit based in Denver that covers the state.
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, May 28th, 6:30-7:30pm
Tuesday, June 25th, 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.
Sunday, May 19th, 8-9:30am – Nature Bingo
Saturday, June 8th, 9-10:30am – Spring Wildflowers
Friday, June 14th, 6:30-8pm – Birds at Sunset
Friday, June 21st, 7:30-9pm – Strawberry Moon
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
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
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
Thursday, May 30th, 8-9:30am – Natural Heritage Walking Tour with SSPRD (Birds)
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)
13 May 16, 2024
ridgegate.com All
MAY S 2 27 29 3031 24 25 26 28 10 1213 1416 11 17 19 20 2223 21 18 1 15 89 34 567 S MTTFW A more natural approach to urbanism. JUNE S 1 23 12 19 26 20 22 23 24 25 27 29 30 28 1315 16 18 45 8 9 10 11 67 S M T T F W 17 21 14
events are held within the RidgeGate community, just south of Lincoln Avenue, on both sides of I-25.
FROM PAGE 12
Success through accountability and ownership
You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.” — Zig Ziglar is quote encapsulates Zig’s belief that progress begins with taking action, even if it’s small steps initially. Meeting expectations requires that initial e ort, that rst step toward a goal. However, Zig’s message extends beyond mere meeting expectations; he also emphasized the importance of exceeding them.
He believed that exceeding expectations was not only a path to success but also a way to build trust, credibility, and lasting relationships. Mr. Ziglar’s philosophy centered on the principle that by consistently surpassing what is required, individuals can di erentiate themselves and achieve greater levels of success in both their personal and professional lives.
benchmarks against which we measure our progress, success, and sometimes even our worth. However, traversing this maze requires more than just setting and meeting expectations; it demands a profound understanding of accountability and ownership.
inking about our lives, expectations act as guiding stars, illuminating our paths and shaping our endeavors. Whether self-imposed or external, these expectations serve as
Inever thought I would need to know so much about actuarial tables. Predicting how long you will live is the backbone of how life insurance, annuity, pension, and Social Security bene ts are calculated. is is why the longer you wait to collect Social Security, the higher your monthly bene t is. Because you have fewer months left in your lifetime to spread your payments over.
Retirees should be aware when there could be changes to their xed income bene ts. Social Security is the most common retiree bene t, as it a ects more than 66 million Americans. Every December, the Social Security Administration announces what the next year’s cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, will be, if any. Many think this adjustment is based on in ation of goods and services, but that is not exactly true. It is based on in-
At its core, accountability entails the willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions, decisions, and their consequences. It is the recognition that our choices have repercussions, not only for ourselves but also for those around us. Likewise, ownership embodies the sense of ownership, not merely of tangible possessions, but also of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It is the acknowledgment that we are the masters of our destinies.
Future Social Security benefits
ation of wages, or the CPI-W.
Social Security does not always give an in ation adjustment. You can see the historical increases, or lack thereof, on their website. Any increase is not always designed to keep up with the current in ation rate, either. e 3.2% bene t increase for 2024 did not equal the current in ation rate last December on total goods, which was 3.4%.
It is important for seniors to understand how to plan for in ation and what to expect from their Social Security bene ts. ere have been several years when there were more signi cant discrepancies. e expectation for 2025 is that it will
be the lowest in many years. is is partly due to the fact that in ation is coming down, but there are other calculations behind the scenes designed to help the Social Security co ers last longer than could be planned for future years.
e Long-Range Solvency Provisions are posted on the website at ssa.gov. Here, various ranges of increases and the nancial impact over long periods of time are displayed. ere are new computations shown that could help the longevity of Social Security bene ts for future generations but could lower the COLA for current retirees. While these are just di erent scenarios at this point, it is always important to make sure you have planned your retirement well, so you are not solely dependent on your Social Security income. Many retirees make the mistake of reducing or eliminating their in-
vestment growth goals as they near retirement. Investments can be a way of making up for xed incomes that may not keep up with higher costs of living, especially health care. Make sure you are working with your advisor to determine the best level of diversi cation to map out a comfortable retirement plan for you. Consider in ating your income needs in your projections, but do not in ate your Social Security bene t. is is not something you will have control over, and it is best to plan for a potential gap in income now while you can possibly make other adjustments to your strategy.
No one likes negative surprises. Plan well while you can.
1. ssa.gov
Patricia Kummer is a senior wealth advisor for Mariner Wealth Advisors.
May May 16, 2024 14 VOICES LOCAL
WINNING
FINANCIAL STRATEGIES
SEE NORTON, P21
Seniors’ Council examines domestic violence, elder abuse
Domestic violence and elder abuse occurs across all demographics and may be present in communities including Douglas County. People feel uncomfortable thinking about these sensitive topics and often don’t know what should be done.
Amy McCandless, the executive director of the Crisis Center, will identify the signs of abuse at the Seniors’ Council of Douglas County (SCDC) meeting on ursday, June 6 from 10 to 11:30 am at Terra Blu s, a new older adult community, located at 8797 S. Chambers Road in Parker. She will also discuss tools to help empower those who are dealing with these di cult situations. e meeting is free and open to the public.
According to McCandless, “ e Crisis Center serves people impacted by intimate partner violence by providing emergency shelter, therapy, and advocacy services. Older adults are at a unique risk of abuse. Attendees will learn how to identify and prevent elder abuse, as well as more about Crisis Center services for those in need.” Attendees will receive material to keep on hand and a complimentary jar opener.
Prior to being promoted to executive director last year, McCandless served as the Crisis Center’s director of development since 2013. She currently oversees the agency’s fundraising e orts and provides programmatic oversight and strategic direction.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Flora is most sensible candidate
While all eyes seem to be focused on the race for president, we have a very important primary election coming up in a few short weeks. In the June primary, many of us will be selecting a candidate to run for U.S. Congressional District 4.
LIVING & AGING WELL
e Seniors’ Council mission is to promote Living Well/Aging Well in Douglas County. SRCD’s vision is to enhance quality of life and open access through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Attendees are encouraged to invite others to meetings. Organizational partners are invited to support the mission and vision of SCDC.
e Seniors’ Council will not meet in July. e next meeting is ursday, Aug. 1 and the topic is “Mental Health for Older Adults, Youth, and Everyone in Between,” presented by Jason Hopcus, president/CEO of NAMI Arapahoe/Douglas Counties. Jason is a certi ed life coach, radio show host, and entrepreneur with a deep commitment to serve. He created and hosts a podcast and community designed to help youth and families navigate today’s challenges that can impact mental health called Nobody’s Perfect.
In September there will be a regular rst ursday morning SCDC meeting and a special half-day workshop about compiling emergency information binders on Tuesday, Sept. 24.
For more information about SCDC visit dcseniorlife@douglas.co.us.
I believe that Deborah Flora is the best, sharpest, and most sensible candidate in the race from any party. She understands that things have been getting worse for ordinary people with the laws, mandates and courtroom distractions coming out of Washington D.C. She knows, like we all do, that we know better what we need in our communities, in our schools, and in
TRATHEN
Mary Lynn (Strome) Trathen September 26, 1949 - September 9, 2023
Lynn Trathen, 74, of Parker, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on September 9th, 2023.
our homes than elitist bureaucrats thousands of miles away in D.C.
I have no doubt that Deborah Flora will ght for our rights as parents, workers, and citizens against the overreaching arms of a federal government that is out of control. Deborah is smart and has common sense. She has a great booklet on her website entitled the “Roadmap to Restoring America” that resonates with my traditional patriotic view of the actual responsibilities of government. You can nd her Roadmap at deborah ora.com and see if you agree that Deborah Flora is a candidate you can wholeheartedly support this primary season.
Laura Eicher, Highlands Ranch
Her Celebration of Life will be held on May18th at the Parker Schoolhouse from 10am -12pm.
In lieu of owers, please consider a donation to the National Scleroderma Foundation or charity of your choice.
15 May 16, 2024
In Loving Place an Obituary for Your Loved One. Memory 303-566-4100 obituaries@coloradocommunitymedia.com Self placement available online at ParkerChronicle.net ElbertCountyNews.net
OBITUARIES
Amy McCandless
Where did those red, blue and black Colorado license plates come from?
probably took notice.
In 2023, roughly 180,000 vehicles were registered with those seemingly new plates. But the plates actually have roots in the past, and the oncediscontinued designs raise money for people with disabilities.
BY ELLIS ARNOLD
Aubiquitous image in Colorado, the state’s standard license plate features an artsy depiction of white mountains against a green background. So when all-red, all-blue and all-black designs with white letters — without mountains — started popping up in tra c, you
“ e rst blue-and-white plate was issued in 1914,” the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles said in a statement, adding: “ e rst year the all-red background with white letters was issued was 1925.”
Colorado’s popular new black plate is modeled after a 1945 design, predating the state’s rst plate design with mountains by about 15 years, according to the state DMV.
Another retro plate that ips the
standard design — instead o ering green mountains and white sky — recently made a return. It, too, generates funds for programs for the disability community.
Colorado’s batch of reissued designs represents just one of the many ways to support a cause or send a message.
“Our choice in license plates reects things we love to do, organizations we support, our service, our hobbies and interests and provides nancial support to these organizations,” DMV Senior Director Electra Bustle said in a news release this year.
Here’s a look at the history of some of Colorado’s unique license plates.
Bringing it back
Colorado rst made available the now-retro-looking plate with green mountains and white sky in 1962, the state DMV said.
Colorado discontinued that plate design in 2000, the division said. Bringing it back was an e ort of a state Senate bill in 2021, a law that requires the state to charge additional fees for those plates and put them in a disability support fund.
State lawmakers in 2022 followed up with state Senate Bill 22-217, a law that allowed Colorado to issue the previously retired designs of all-black, all-red and all-blue backgrounds.
May 16, 2024 16
EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
A look at the history of some of the state’s unique plate designs
SEE PLATES, P17
An image of Colorado’s license plate design created to recognize the victims of the shooting at Columbine High School in 1999. COURTESY OF COLORADO DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLES
PLATES
e Colorado Disability Funding Committee receives $25 from the sale of each of those plates, as well as an additional $25 at renewal, the state DMV said.
e DMV does not have historical records that point to the reasons why the state discontinued the black, red and blue plates years ago, the division said.
“Black and white, and whiteand-black color combinations, as well as a host of other color combinations, were used from 1913 through 1958. e nal version of the black-and-white color combination was issued in 1954,” the DMV said in a statement.
Around 1959, the state moved to various versions of green-andwhite license plates, the DMV said.
Colorado rst made available its current standard license plate design of white mountains and green background around 1960, according to the DMV.
Retro plates gain popularity
Now that some old designs are back, they’ve become popular.
Coloradans chose the black plates roughly 170,000 times in 2023, according to a DMV list.
About 6,900 vehicles registered with the red plates and about 6,400 with the blue that year, the list said.
e state made the black, red and blue plates available in January 2023.
Themed plates, including for ethnic groups e Columbine “Respect Life” design remains popular too, with more than 75,000 vehicles registered with the plates in 2023. Released in 2001, the plate honors the 13 lives lost during the shooting at Columbine High School in 1999, according to the DMV.
(While the plate design was created to recognize the victims of the Columbine tragedy, it does not generate funds for survivors of the shooting, the DMV clari ed.)
Some plates center on ethnic groups. e Italian American heritage plate was created from a state House Bill in 2007.
e American Indian Scholars plate was created from a state Senate Bill in 2005, the DMV said. For that plate, a person must donate $25 to the Rocky Mountain Indian Chamber of Commerce.
And now, a bill to create a plate that supports the Chicana/o community — Americans of Mexican descent — recently passed the state legislature.
“ e black background in particular exceeded original revenue estimates, while the blue and red backgrounds have met estimates,” a state budget document said.
After it’s created, a person would become eligible for the plate by providing a certi cate con rming they have made a donation to a nonpro t organization chosen by o cials based on the organization’s provision of services to the Latin American community, according to a summary of the bill on the legislature’s website.
“It speaks to Chicano heritage that is very deep in the state of Colorado,” state Rep. Tim Hernandez has said. FROM PAGE 16
17 May 16, 2024
An image of Colorado’s blue-background license plate design.
An image of Colorado’s historically influenced black-background license plate design.
An image of Colorado’s license plate design that benefits the Rocky Mountain Indian Chamber of Commerce.
An image of Colorado’s red-background license plate design.
An image of Colorado’s Italian American heritage plate design.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF COLORADO DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLES
Colorado Community Media honored with 10 regional journalism awards
Sta takes three first place honors at the Society of Professional Journalists’ Top of the Rockies Excellence in Journalism competition
BY COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA STAFF
e sta of Colorado Community Media’s two dozen newspapers received 10 awards, including three rst-place honors, at the esteemed Top of the Rockies Excellence in Journalism competition over the weekend.
is year’s contest, hosted by the Colorado chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, attracted a record number of participants, with more than 80 news media outlets and 30 freelancers from Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico submitting their work. Judged by the Los Angeles Press Club, the competition was erce, with more than 1,900 entries vying for recognition. Colorado Community media competed in the large newsroom category.
e newsroom’s “Long Way Home” series, an extensive, 14-story deep dive into the escalating crisis of housing a ordability and availability, won rst place in the General Reporting, Series or Package category. e story identi ed the bar-
A group of Colorado Community Media team members gather for a photo at the Colorado chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists’ Top of the Rockies Excellence in Journalism awards ceremony on May 3 at the Denver Press Club.
PHOTO BY LINDA SHAPLEY
riers many younger Coloradans and people of color face in their struggles for home ownership and explored potential solutions. e stories, produced by reporters across the newsroom, ran in newspapers — from the Arvada Press to the Parker Chronicle — across the metro area. e project was led by Editor in Chief Michael de Yoanna with West Metro Editor Kristen Fiore, North Metro Editor Scott Taylor, Digital Editor Deborah Grigsby and former South Metro Editor elma Grimes, the assistance of editors Scott Gilbert and Christy Steadman, and initial contributions from former chief editor Lisa Schlichtman.
Judges wrote: “Tremendous e ort by the sta of Colorado Community Media to tell the story of housing — the facts, gures and people a ected by metro Denver’s housing issues.”
Reporters Nina Joss and McKenna Harford won rst place in the Poli-
tics, Feature category for “Shades of Red” in the Douglas County NewsPress, looking at divergent views among south metro area Republicans regarding how to present a unied front to voters.
“In this timely, unbiased, and indepth analysis, journalists Nina Joss and McKenna Harford show great skill at explaining complex political issues in a way that is accessible and engaging to their audience. e result is a clearly written, logically structured, and highly entertaining piece of work,” the judges remarked.
News sta ers Fiore, Corinne Westeman, Grigsby, Steadman, Rylee Dunn and Steve Smith were honored with a rst place in Social Justice Reporting in “For the record: Examining how the Golden Transcript contributed to systemic racism.” e story, which Westeman took the lead role in writing, reconciled with a racially biased chapter of the Transcript’s presentation of news in the late 1960s and early 1970s surrounding the Black Panther Party. Also named on the award are Jameka Lewis, senior librarian at the Denver Public Library’s Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, and a freelance researcher on the story, Greg Moore, contributing as an editor, and Allan Tellis, contributing as a doctoral student of political science at the University of ColoradoBoulder/freelance researcher.
“A hard-hitting reminder of a dark past, and the fact that there is still a long way to go,” judges wrote.
Westeman also took home a sec-
ond-place award in the Sports, News category for “Role Players: Orediggers work behind the scenes to elevate football team’s performance.”
Dunn, at the Arvada Press, received a second-place honor for Obit Reporting for “Remembering Moses Walker, a musician and friend beyond compare.” Joss, at the Littleton Independent, took third place in the Obit Reporting category for “Je Gaylord’s death shines light on life of strength and sel essness.”
Also receiving third-place honors:
• Steadman, editor of the Washington Park Pro le and Life on Capitol Hill, for “Parkinson’s slows life down but doesn’t stop a family’s love” (Column, Personal)
• Englewood Herald Reporter Elisabeth Slay for “Unopposed Englewood school board candidate Davon Williams has felony record and active arrest warrant, records show” (General Reporting, Series or Package)
• Production Artist Leah Neu, “A hub for young artists” (Single Page Design)
• Former Centennial Citizen Reporter Tayler Shaw for beat reporting.
Retired Canyon Courier Reporter
Deb Hurley Brobst, a four-decade veteran journalist with extensive editing, reporting and mentoring experience, was named a Keeper of the Flame, a lifetime achievement award given to journalists who display “extraordinary dedication to ethical, responsible journalism and professional integrity.”
May May 16, 2024 18 YOU WATER TOCONSERVE? DOING Learn more at www.pwsd.org/conservation Thu Fri Making @ Swallow Denver The Hideaway @ Herman's Denver Keddjra @ Herman's Broadway, Ben @ The Denver The Featured Featured
Thu 5/16
Making Movies w/Fruta Brutal @ 6pm Swallow Hill Music, 71 E Yale Ave, Denver
The Wilderness Live at Herman's Hideaway wsg: Dear Luna @ 6pm
Herman's Hideaway, 1578 S Broadway, Denver
Fri 5/17
Keddjra @ 7pm
Sat 5/18
Mickey Avalon LIVE at Wild Goose with Blake Banks @ 6am
Wild Goose Saloon, Parker
7th Annual Victoria's Tea Fundraiser for the Castle Rock Historical Society & Museum @ 1pm / $40
Kirk Hall, 500 Fairgrounds Road, Castle Rock. museum@castlerock historicalsociety.org, 303-8143164
Cecelia Band: Cecelia w/ Vertigo + Dylan & Declan + Tuesday’s @ 6:30pm Moe's Original BBQ, 3295 S Broadway, Englewood
LUNG the band @ 6pm
Moe's Original BBQ, 3295 S Broadway, Englewood
Softball: Youth - Girls Age 6 to 8Summer 2024
@ 9:30pm
May 21st - Jul 27th
Salisbury Sports Complex, 11920 Motsen‐bocker Road, Parker
Wed 5/22
Thu 5/23
SUMMER SPINS ROLLER RINK @ 2pm / $10
May 23rd - Sep 2nd 439 S Upham St, 439 South Up‐ham Street, Lakewood. info@bel marcolorado.com, 303-742-1520
Sun 5/19
Josh Heinrichs @ 6pm
Moe's Original BBQ, 3295 S Broadway, Englewood Ride @ 7pm
Gothic Theatre, Englewood
Mon 5/20
Chaos And Carnage Tour @ 3:30pm
Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood
Face Yourself @ 3:30pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood
Meet the Counselor @ 4:30pm / Free Parker Fieldhouse, 18700 E Plaza Dr., Parker. 303-805-6315
Herman's Hideaway, 1578 S Broadway, Denver
Ben Hemsley @ 8pm
The Church Denver, 1720 S Alcott St, Denver
Tue 5/21
Sugar Candy Mountain @ 7pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood
Brian Posehn @ 7pm
Rock 'n Roll Junkies @ 6pm Herman's Hideaway, 1578 S Broadway, Denver
Rotating Tap Comedy @ Coal Mine Ave Brewing @ 6pm
Coal Mine Ave Brewing Company, 9719 W Coal Mine Ave unit a, Littleton
2K BABY & COLEMAN LANE IN LITTLETON, CO @ 6:30pm The Toad Tavern, 5302 S Federal Circle, Littleton
Subtronics After Party Thursday @ 10:59pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood
Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood
ers.
19 May 16, 2024
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Classic iron draws car lovers to EHS
Elizabeth High School Auto Shop program stages yearly show
BY NICKY QUINBY
MEDIA
e day was overcast and cloudy when the Elizabeth High School Auto Shop program staged its annual Spring Car Show, but it wasn’t too cold for Elbert County residents to ogle at all the beautiful classic cars. e show, hosted by the EHS chapter of SkillsUSA, took place on May 5 at the school. Members of the Elizabeth Cruisers, Parker Cruisers, Castle Rock Poor Boy Cruisers and the Vintage Car Club of Castle Rock always show up to support the pro-
gram.
Derek Spohn, EHS Auto Shop instructor and head of the program, said the car show is a great opportunity to connect with the community. “ e conversations that folks have with me usually revolve around how important the auto shop is to high schoolers, and so many people are just happy to see it come back,” he said. “Many of our donations are the result of this car show. People o er to donate tools, equipment and vehicles to the program, all of which come with a donation receipt for tax purposes.”
ere were just under 170 students enrolled in an EHS Auto Shop class this year. EHS o ered Consumer Automotive, Automotive 1 and Automotive 2 classes. Spohn said
CAR SHOW, P30
May May 16, 2024 20 Greenwood Village To advertise your place of worship in this section, call Erin at 303-566-4074 or email eaddenbrooke@ColoradoCommunityMedia.com Serving the Southeast Denver area Call or check our website for information on services and social events! www.cbsdenver.org 303-505-9236 Congregation Beth Shalom Serving the southeast Denver area Castle Rock/Franktown WORLD MISSION CHURCH (KOREAN CHURCH) 7249 E. Park Dr. Franktown, CO TIME: 10:30 PM PHONE: 303-688-1004 ENGLISH TRANSLATION EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Sunday Services - 10:00 a.m. Meditation before service - 9:30 a.m. Cimarron Middle School 12130 Canterberry Pkwy, Parker, CO 80138 www.CSLParker.org • (303) 805-9890 Parker Parker Join us in respecting & honoring all lives and faiths 10:45AM Sunday Services Check out our website for events and information prairieuu.org Advertise Your Place of Worship HERE YOUR AD HERE
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A 1955 Chevy Nomad station wagon with a 502-cubic-inch GM engine was on display at the Elizabeth High School Auto Shop Spring Car Show. The “only thing on this from a ’55 Chevy is the sheet metal,” the owner shared.
PHOTOS BY NICKY QUINBY
On the left is a red 1934 Ford coupe, with a yellow 1967 Pontiac Firebird and an orange 1949 Mercury side by side in the background at Elizabeth High School.
A modified 1940s-era Willys Americar coupe at the Elizabeth High School car show. This was a line of cars produced by Willys-Overland Motors from 1937 to 1942, either as a sedan, coupe, station wagon or pickup truck.
SEE
When we talk about meeting and exceeding expectations, the link of accountability and ownership becomes particularly relevant. To exceed expectations, we must rst meet them, but to truly excel, we must go beyond the anticipated. is journey begins with introspection, a critical examination of the expectations we harbor for ourselves. Often, these self-imposed expectations are the most stringent, fueled by our ambitions.
However, as we scrutinize these expectations, we must distinguish
between those that propel us forward and those that shackle us in self-doubt and anxiety. True ownership lies in discerning which expectations align with our values, passions, and capabilities, and which ones are remnants of external inuences. By reclaiming ownership over our aspirations, we empower ourselves to set realistic goals and pursue them with unwavering determination.
Simultaneously, accountability beckons us to confront the expectations others place upon us. Whether it be the demands of employers, family members, or society at large, external expectations can exert a profound in uence on our lives. Yet, while we cannot control the expec-
tations others hold, we can control how we respond to them. Accountability urges us to communicate openly, to negotiate, and, when necessary, to assert boundaries.
Accountability entails transparency and integrity in our actions. It means honoring commitments, admitting mistakes, and taking steps to rectify them. In a world where blame-shifting and nger-pointing abound, embracing accountability is a radical act of courage and authenticity. It is an acknowledgment of our fallibility and an unwavering commitment to growth and self-improvement.
Accountability and ownership are the threads that bind us together, weaving patterns of resilience, in-
tegrity, and excellence. ey remind us that success is not measured solely by the attainment of goals but by the journey we undertake and the principles we uphold along the way. I would love to hear your expectations story at gotonorton@gmail. com. And when we embrace the power of accountability and ownership as the compasses that guide us toward the ful llment of our highest aspirations, it really will be a better than good life.
Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator of individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries.
21 May 16, 2024
FROM PAGE 14
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Movement continues ascent with newest climbing gym in Centennial area
BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Kids and their parents tied knots, played games and scaled colorful walls inside a large warehouse near Interstate 25 and Colorado Highway 470.
It was a grand opening celebration for a new Movement location, a rock climbing gym in the Centennial area. It also o ers yoga and group tness opportunities. It is the company’s sixth gym in Colorado.
“We identi ed an opportunity to serve a portion of the Denver community that lacked easy access to our other locations, and felt that we could provide a place for the
Kory Stratton wrote in an email to the Centennial Citizen.
Movement, which also has gyms in Englewood, Golden, and two in Denver, o ers top rope and lead climbing on its 55-foot walls. Top rope climbing is a form of rock climbing where climbers are attached to ropes on a xed anchor on a wall. In lead climbing, athletes clip their ropes into anchors on the wall as they ascend their route.
e new gym also o ers bouldering, a form of climbing in which climbers are not attached to ropes as they complete shorter routes.
ton said. Construction began in the summer of 2023 and involved taking o part of the roof and raising it 25 feet for climbing walls, he said.
Movement memberships include unlimited access to all gym locations. e gym also o ers climbing instructional classes and afterschool programs, summer camps and a youth climbing team, Stratton said.
Stratton said he hopes the gym makes a positive impact.
climbing community (to) grow in the south metro area,” gym director
e gym, located at 9657 E. County Line Road near IKEA, used to be occupied by a retail golf store, Strat-
“Our hope is to help spread the love for climbing, yoga and tness in this community and to provide an environment where people can be better versions of themselves,” he said.
May May 16, 2024 22 Now OPEN 11000 S. Parker Road Mainstreet Sheridan Blvd. S. Parker Road S.Pikes Peak Dr. Some exclusions apply. See store for details.
A child ascends a top rope climbing route at a ribbon cutting event at Movement Centennial on April 25. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HECKER
Colorado’s foster families honored for National Foster Care Month
BY JO DAVIS JDAVIS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
May is National Foster Care Month. e Colorado Department of Human Services commemorated the month by honoring ve foster families. e families honored were Desmond and Emelia Boateng from Peyton, Jennifer and Stacy Gardinier from Deacon, Chad Harbertson and Kayunte Berry from Lakewood, Josh Skaggs from Colorado Springs and Ahna and Andres Raygoza from Wiggins. e families came together for a luncheon on Saturday, May 4, at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
“ ese families are examples of ordinary Coloradans doing something extraordinary to strengthen families and their community. eir support for reuni cation and commitment to caring for youth of all ages is remarkable,” said Mollie Bradlee, interim director of the CDHS O ce of Children, Youth and Families. “ ey are an inspiration for others to consider what they can do right now to make a di erence for kids and families.”
e luncheon was also to bring more attention to foster care, to CDHS. e state is always looking to
nd more families to add to its foster and kinship family network, CDHS.
According to the CDHS, there are 3,448 children and youth living with 2,471 certi ed kinship and foster families today in Colorado.
“We know that people are curious about foster care and want to know more about what it is really like,” said Bradlee. “By sharing these real stories, we hope to inspire more Coloradans to support children and youth who need a temporary safe place to heal while their parents or caregivers work on building skills to help their children thrive.”
According to the CDHS, being a foster parent isn’t exclusive to married, middle-aged couples. In Colorado, foster parents can be:
• Single, married, or in a committed relationship
• All races and ethnicities
• All sexual orientations, gender identities, or gender expressions
• Homeowners or renters
• An experienced parent or a rsttime parent
• Older or young (minimum 21 years old)
e only way to know if you qualify is to contact the CDHS o ce near you for more information. Visit CO4Kids.org.
23 May 16, 2024 CONTEST Cute Pets Celebrate National Pet Month! Enter your cutest pet: May 1st – 20th Voting begins: May 21st – 31st Winner announced in the June 6th publications. sponsored by: area
The honored Colorado foster families, from left, are Josh Skaggs, Stacy and Jennifer Gardinier, Desmond and Emelia Boateng, Ahna and Andres Raygoza, Chad Harbertson and Kayunte Berry.
COURTESY PHOTO
RTD’s bus design contest celebrates 60 years of the Civil Rights Act in Colorado communities
BY JO DAVIS JDAVIS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Colorado’s Regional Transportation District is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Movement with an art contest. e agency is asking Coloradans for Civil Rights-themed artwork that will be wrapped onto an RTD bus.
“I believe that public transportation is the great societal equalizer, and the delivery of transit services is inherently linked to social justice movements and the Civil Rights Act of 1964,” RTD General Manager and CEO Debra A. Johnson said.
Carl Green Jr., director of RTD’s
Civil Rights Division said that the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act (of 1964) is an important milestone for public transit.
“When I think about access to opportunity, whether it’s jobs, employment, grocery stores, education, social services and key public activity centers, public transportation is interwoven within the fabric of our community. And it provides access to opportunity,” Green said.
e idea for a public design contest comes from Green’s desire to make the celebration a community e ort.
“I’ve been working in civil rights and social justice-related work for
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decades. And when I think about what it means for public transportation, and the community and the customers that we serve, I’m a fervent believer in you got to know your past to know where you’re where you’re going,” Green said.
Green explained this thought led him to wonder about all the many options for commemorating the historic event.
“I thought about the 60th anniversary, in putting thoughts into the ether, so to speak, or pen to paper. How do we celebrate this landmark legislation in a way that is going to bring about awareness and hopefully bring it out action,” Green said.
Green said he next brought RTD partners into the brainstorming for the event.
“And when I think about the
community partners such as Denver, NAACP, ACLU Colorado, One Colorado, Colorado Asian Paci c United,Atlantis Community Inc., or Servicios De La Raza,” Green said. He went on to name other social justice, civil rights and communityfocused agencies. “Whether it’s human rights or civil rights, at the end of the day, it’s about leaving places better than you found it.”
Green said his team landed on temporarily wrapping an RTD bus with a design by an artist in the community. e bus unveiling will also include a celebration. Green said details of the event are still being determined.
According to RTD, artists are encouraged to submit bus art with the
May May 16, 2024 24
The winning design for the RTD Civil Rights bus art contest will be wrapped onto an RTD bus. The process is similar to the wrapping of busses for Asian American and Pacific Islander Appreciation Month.
SEE BUS ART, P26
PHOTO COURTESY RTD
25 May 16, 2024 VAS E THEDATES Calling all health and wellness vendors! Elevate your brand and join our event as a sponsor. Connect with our healthconscious community and showcase your products/services to a motivated audience ready to prioritize their wellbeing. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative experience! www.coloradocommunitymedia.com 303.566.4115 events@coloradocommunitymedia.com Looking for vendors & sponsors Saturday Sep. 21st at DCSD Legacy Campus 10035 S Peoria St, Lone Tree and Saturday Oct. 5th at The Arvada Center 6901 Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada Cultivating Community Health & Wellness DenOne c or said. social communityhuend places on bus comalso said deenthe
BUS ART
following design goals in mind:
• Celebrate the history of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, in addition to countless other federal and state laws that protect our civil, political and legal rights
• Recognize the individuals, groups or major events in Colorado and nationally that championed equity, equality and accessibility
• Create a vibrant and lively design, celebrating our diverse community
• Inspire action by increasing visibility and engaging the community
All design applications and artwork proposals are due May 24. e winning design will be announced in June and wrapped. According to RTD, the wrapped bus will be a part of the “regular xed-route services
in the Denver metro area through 2024.”
RTD outlined the following project timeline for the design contest:
• May 24 – Artist applications and submission deadline
• June 2 – e evaluation panel starts the art design review process
• June 3 – Artist and bus wrap design selected
• June 14 – Finalization of wrap design
• Summer 2024 – Bus design wrap reveal
e creator of the winning design will receive $3,500.
“ is project provides artists with a rich opportunity to bring forth ideas that illustrate these principles and constitutional rights for public re ection and enjoyment, “Johnson said.
For more information and to submit a design, visit rtd-denver. com/60th-anniversary.
May May 16, 2024 26
COURTESY RTD
The RTD bus art design contest is to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Civil Rights Act. The winning design will be wrapped onto a regular RTD bus, like the one in the photo. It will run on a fixed route throughout the rest of 2024. The winning designer will also receive $3,500. PHOTO
FROM PAGE 24
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Douglas County High School relocates Air Force Academy graduation
BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Douglas County High School is changing the location of its graduation ceremony away from the U.S. Air Force Academy after students and sta raised concerns about undocumented people not being able to attend.
e graduation ceremony is still scheduled for May 22, but will now be held at 3 p.m. at the Echo Park Stadium in Parker.
CPR News reported a day before the announcement that some graduating seniors wouldn’t be able to take part in the graduation ceremony at the Air Force Academy because of its security protocols. e Douglas County News-Press was in the process of investigating similar tips as that story came out. e academy generally requires a military ID, passport or driver’s license to enter. For non-U.S. citizens, it requires special clearance and documentation to enter the base.
While Colorado allows undocumented people to get a driver’s license, it is “not valid for federal identi cation, voting or public bene t purposes” and the academy con rmed to CPR News that it’s not a valid credential to enter the base.
People with prior felonies, a criminal record, are also not allowed on
the base.
In a statement from Douglas County High School Principal Anthony Kappas, the district said it worked closely with students and families to navigate the security requirements, but is changing the location out of concern that the ceremony would be disrupted.
“Unfortunately, there has been increased scrutiny by some in the community, as well as members of the media, regarding the location of our graduation ceremony,” Kappas said in an email to the school.
e district said it had chosen to host the graduation at the Air Force Academy originally because of a past history with inclement weather ruining or delaying the ceremony.
Kappas said the new location will also alleviate tra c concerns.
“ ere are concerns that this spotlight on our graduation could result in additional stress and tra c delays that we do not want for our seniors on their special day,” he said.
“We want to ensure all family members, friends and loved ones are able to attend this milestone celebration and can arrive on time.”
e ceremony will also be live streamed on the DCSD YouTube channel.
A Douglas County High School student estimated that two dozen students and around 80 fam-
ily members were impacted by the decision to have graduation at the academy, according to CPR News. District 20 in Colorado Springs has hosted graduations at the Air Force Academy previously and has one scheduled there this year. It’s unclear how that district helps students navigate the security requirements.
Kappas encouraged students to not let the last minute change in uence their celebration.
“To the Class of 2024, do not let this take away from your big day,” he said, “Change is part of life and you are resilient. is will be an incredible day where we celebrate you and all of your hard work. You will always be a Huskie!”
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COURTESY AIR FORCE ACADEMY F lation the “Cabinet sibilities” door knew ing after “Especially working dreds Curiosities unveiled new dler’s Circle of 28. guided at in museum Madden dent the asking pen of Vacca, munications
Douglas County High School relocated its graduation ceremony, which was originally scheduled to be at the Air Force Academy, after students and sta raised concerns about security restrictions on who would be able to attend. The graduation will now be at Echo Park Stadium in Parker.
MOA reopens the Cabinet of Curiosities’ doors
For most artists, when a work is completed, that’s the end of the creative process. So, when Colorado-based installation artist Lonnie Hanzon had the opportunity to reimagine his “Cabinet of Curiosities and Impossibilities” for the Museum of Outdoor Arts’ (MOA) new location, he knew he was getting a rare treat.
“It’s an honor to be back and thrilling to work with the museum again after all these years,” Hanzon said. “Especially when the piece you’re working on again has so many hundreds of pieces of your work in it.”
e newly updated Cabinet of Curiosities and Impossibilities was unveiled to the public at the MOA’s new location, Marjorie Park at Fiddler’s Green, 6331 S. Fiddler’s Green Circle in Greenwood Village, as part of the La Primavera Festival on April 28. It is now available to explore by guided tour only.
e Cabinet was originally set up at the MOA’s former headquarters in Englewood in 2009. When the museum moved in 2023, Cynthia Madden Leitner, the MOA’s President and Executive Director, knew the Cabinet had to come too.
“One of the things patrons kept asking was what was going to happen to the Cabinet. It’s such a labor of love for us and Lonnie,” said Tim Vacca, Director of Programs & Communications at the MOA. “We talked
ing another way to engage with the space.
woodsymphony.org.
with Lonnie and asked if he could reenvision it and now it’s so great to have it back. It’s like visiting an old friend.” is permanent exhibit is housed in a new stand-alone building in Marjorie Park and features a vast collection of relics from fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Using these items, Hanzon explores everything early optics and geometry to celestial wonders and the sea.
What really makes this new version special is that Hanzon had a say in designing the entire space.
“It’s not very often you get to control everything, from oor to ceiling,” he said. “It allowed me to truly, truly treat it as a single work of art. It’s a chance to tell a better story.”
In addition to being an art installation, the Cabinet also serves as a creative space for others. ere is room for di erent artists to display their own works and from May 25 through June 16, it will feature in an immersive theater experience called “Impossible ings,” put on by e Catamounts, a Boulderbased theater company, and Hanzon Studios. It will be a key scene location in the production, o er-
e aim of the Cabinet is to instill a sense of wonder in the viewer, no matter their age. And if people come away with their own sense of exploration piqued, so much the better.
“It’s a great experiential learning experience, one that is best when shared,” Vacca said. “I’m looking forward to hosting all kinds of groups and students, all of whom will have a great time exploring.”
For more information and to book a guided tour, visit https://moaonline.org/.
LSO ends season with an evening of romance
e Lakewood Symphony Orchestra’s nal performance the 2023-2024 season will be “Isn’t It Romantic,” held at the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, at 7:30 p.m. on ursday, May 30.
e concert will feature Youth Concerto winner Joseph Kim performing the Barber Violin Concerto. ose looking to make a full night of it can attend the annual Celebration Dinner, which begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Cultural Center. e food will be prepared by two chefs and the second and third-place winners of the concerto competition will also perform. Purchase tickets at www.lake-
Arvada Center hosts artistic evening on understanding the Middle East
e Arvada Center, 6901 Wadsworth Blvd., is hosting a special event called Standing for Humanity in Gaza and Israel at 7 p.m. on ursday, May 23, to use art to facilitate understanding and dialogue over the horri c situation in the Middle East.
e event begins with “How to Remain a Humanist After a Massacre,” a 20-minute play by Maya Arad Yassur, set on the morning of October 7. e evening will also include a poetry reading with work by Palestinian poets Mahmoud Darwish, Taha Muhammad Ali, Rashid Hussein and Refaat Alareer. ere will also be a facilitated panel discussion with local journalists, educators, political and faith leaders.
Proceeds from this event will raise funds for Medical Aid for Palestinians and Bring em Home Now! Find more information at https://arvadacenter.org/events/ standing-for-humanity-in-gazaand-israel-.
Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Holly Humberstone at the Bluebird Theater ere are a lot of pop stars these days who take the maximalist ap-
29 May 16, 2024
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CAR SHOW
students learned a variety of skills ranging from flat tire replacement to welding and electrical circuit creation to pinstriping, airbrush use and mousetrap car construction. Students also made their own tables using spruce lumber that was donated by Mountain Heart Woodworks
in Elbert.
Spohn proudly shared how students in the program continue to succeed. Students were invited to the Tri-State Swap Meet this year to create custom trophies for the Tri-State Car Show. The SkillsUSA chapter sent five students to Pikes Peak State College to compete in a regional competition. The seniors this year are going on to a variety of different areas after graduation; two are attending welding trade schools
and another student will attend a vehicle restoration program.
Elizabeth High School still has plans to construct an auto shop and classroom building on the north side of campus. The project has been held up by regulations and red tape. Nonetheless, the hope is that construction will begin in early June with completion of the auto shop by Sept. 1. SkillsUSA, formerly known as VICA (the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America), is a “nation-
al organization serving teachers and high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service occupations, including health occupations and for further education.”
The EHS Auto Shop program was featured on the television last year at tinyurl.com/2u4v6tdf and in a previous Elbert County News story at tinyurl.com/579us6hn.
To support the program email dspohn@esdk12.org.
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A mid-1960s Corvette Stingray with the 427 Chevy big-block engine. PHOTOS BY NICKY QUINBY
A bright, cherry red 1965 Ford Mustang in the Spring Car Show at Elizabeth High School.
FROM PAGE 20
31 May 16, 2024 Anywhere. Anytime. Visit us online for news on the go.
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Help Wanted
School Psychologist or Intern
Full-Time School Psychologist or Intern to join our dynamic, multi-disciplinary team of professionals for the 202324 school year - School Districts East of Limon Area Requirements: Educational Specialist (Ed.S.), Colorado certified. Provide PreK12 intervention including assessment, development of IEP’s & consultation services. Competitive salaries: ED.S $57,800$66,200 & Intern $53,590$59,550, both commensurate upon experience. Excellent benefits including dental, vision, and medical insurance. Flexible scheduling with the opportunity to complete some work at home. May also be eligible for loan forgiveness. Flexible schedule. Use of a car or mileage reimbursement.
Questions contact Tracy (719) 775-2342, ext. 101. To apply for this position, please visit our website ecboces. org and click on the “Jobs” page, click on the job you are interested in & then click on the green button “Apply Online”, located at the bottom of the job listing. EOE
Help Wanted
Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing East Central BOCES is seeking a Part-Time 3 day a week Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for the 2024-2025 school year. Salary Range- $27,750$32,790 for 112 days dependent on experiences and education. Hold or be able to attain a Colorado Teaching License with an endorsement as a Special Education Specialist- Deaf/ Hard of Hearing required. Complete assessments, attend IEP meetings, provide direct and indirect special education services. Excellent benefits including access to a company vehicle or mileage reimbursement and fully paid health insurance, including vision and dental. May be eligible for loan forgiveness program. Flexible scheduling with the opportunity to complete some work from home. To apply for this position, please visit our website ecboces.org and click on the “Jobs” page, click on the job you are interested in & then click on the green button “Apply Online”, located at the bottom of the job listing. Questions contact Tracy at (719) 775-2342, ext. 101. EOE
33 May 16, 2024
Do you love being a part of your local community helping businesses grow? If you like to talk to people we want to talk to you! We are currently hiring for a local Marketing Engagement Specialist in the Golden area! Please send resume to eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com Help Wanted Classifieds Continues Next Page
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35 May 16, 2024 SERVICE DIRECTORY Service Directory Continues Next Page A/C Serving the Front Range since 1955 Furnaces • Boilers • Water Heaters Rooftop HVAC • Mobile Furnaces Commercial • Residential Install • Repair • Replace Free Estimates • 720-327-9214 Residential and Commercial Install • Repair • Replace 720-327-9214 AC, Furnace and Boiler Specials NEW REFRIGERATION TECH NOW ON BOARD Serving the Front Range since 1955 Buildings OUTLET CORP. METALBUILDING 303.948.2038 METALBUILDINGOUTLET.COM · SHOPS & GARAGES · EQUIPMENT STORAGE · SELF STORAGE · BARNS & AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS · EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES · COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS · AND MORE... LOCAL BUILDINGS FOR 30+ YEARS! Carpet/Flooring HARDWOOD , ... FOOTPRINTS F1oors. floors Impressions. today for a free estimate! 720-344-0939 FOOTPRINTSFLOORS COM HARDWOOD, TILE, BACKSPLASHES & LAMINATES Great Floors. Great Impressions. 720-344-0939 | FOOTPRINTSFLOORS.COM Call today for a free estimate! Cleaning Weekly • Bi-Weekly • Monthly Move-In • Move-Out FREE ESTIMATES Call Today: 720-225-7176 ProMaidsInc@yahoo.com PROMAID CLEANING Licensed with excellent references Concrete/Paving Shawnsconcrete.com • (970)819-6427 shawnstampedconcrete@gmail.com •Concrete sealing. Industrial Grade •Epoxy coating. Industrial Grade. •Stamped patio restorations Bid per job •Ask about our referral discount, also discounts over 1,500 sq. ft. •Concrete Crack Sealing Has Your Concrete Lost Its Shine? AllPhasesofFlatWorkby T.M.CONCRETE Driveways,Sidewalks,Patios Tear-outs,stamped&colored concrete.Qualitywork,Lic./Ins. Reasonablerates "SmallJobsOK!" 303-514-7364 tmconcrete.net AllPhasesofFlatWorkby T.M.CONCRETE Driveways,Sidewalks,Patios Tear-outs,stamped&colored concrete.Qualitywork,Lic./Ins. Reasonablerates "SmallJobsOK!" 303-514-7364 tmconcrete.net All Phases of Flat Work by T.M. CONCRETE Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios, Tear-outs, stamped & colored concrete. Quality work, Lic./Ins. Reasonable rates. “Small Jobs OK!” 303-514-7364 | coloradoconcretepro.com 303-888-7595 • All Concrete • Tear Out • Patios • Driveways • Curb & Gutter • Walls • Anything Concrete Construction Schneider Construction LLC 30 years of experience in residential remodeling and new construction services! Decks and Patios Kitchens Bathrooms And more! 303-880-5445 www.schneiderconstruction.net 30 years of experience in residential remodeling and new construction services! Decks and Patios • Kitchens Bathrooms • And more! 303-880-5445 • schneiderconstruction.net Deck/Patio • Roofing • Siding • Gutters • Insurance Claims 303-805-7800 www.1wayroofer.com InbusinessinColorado25Years •Decks •Roofing •Siding •Gutters In business in Colorado 30 Years 303-805-7800 www.1wayroofing.com 303-501-3264 WE DO ALL DECK & FENCE REPAIRS CALL US FOR AN ESTIMATE SAND/WASH/STAIN 15% OFF! www.coloradodeckandfence.com codeckandfencepro@gmail.com TOP NOTCH RESTORATION! CO DECK & FENCE PRO’S DECKS BEST PRICES 30+ years experience Clem: 303-973-6991 FREE ESTIMATES
May 16, 2024 36 SERVICE DIRECTORY Service Directory Continues Next Page Drywall Sheetrock & Drywall Framing Specialist EPA Certified Painter, Interior/Exterior Demolition • Insured 7+ Years Experience! Home Improvement Room Builders® LLC. Toll Free 866-552-6987 Cell: 646-825-1716 © A Patch To Match Drywall Repair Specialist
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Satisfaction Guaranteed • Highly rated & screened contractor by Home Advisor & Angies list Ed 720-328-5039 Estate Planning WILLS AND TRUSTS Call now to schedule a no cost appointment 720.772.7565 • dawn@kewpclaw.com Fence Services Cowboy Fencing is a full service residental fencing company installing fences in Colorado for 28 years. Great fences make great neighbors. Low rates. Free estimates. 720-364-5270 Handyman TM HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING • Drywall • Painting • Tile • Trim • Doors • Painting • Decks • Bath Remodel • Kitchen Remodels • Basements & Much More! We Never Mark Up Materials Saving you 25%-35% All Work Guaranteed • A+ BBB Rated Call Today for a FREE ESTIMATE 303-427-2955 HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING • Drywall • Painting • Tile • Trim • Doors • Painting • Decks • Bath Remodel • Kitchen Remodels • Basements & Much More! We Never Mark Up Materials • Saving you 25%-35% All Work Guaranteed • A+ BBB Rated Call Today for a FREE ESTIMATE: 303-427-2955 HANDYMAN Repairs • Install Fixtures, Appliance • Plumbing Electrical • Expert Tile • Kitchen/ Bath Remodel • Decks 35 yrs. experience • Licensed, Insured • References Wes 720-697-3290 DESPAIN’S HOME SOLUTIONS Solving All your Remodeling & Repair Problems – Just Ask! DEPENDABLE, RELIABLE SERVICE Over 30 Years Experience Licensed & Insured Eric DeSpain 303-840-1874 HVAC MAKE SURE YOU’RE READY FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON! $49.99 FURNACE INSPECTION WITH CO DETECTION Call and schedule today - 303.909.2018 CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFERS. IS YOUR FURNACE 10 YEARS OLD OR OLDER? Landscaping/Nurseries Landscaping & Tree Service •Landscaping •Sprinkler Service •Stump Grinding •Tree Removal •Rock and Mulch • Tree Trimming J & M Landscaping & Tree Service Call 720-582-5950 Jmlandservices8@gmail.com Registered & Insured • Free Estimates Landscape & Concrete Landscaping • Yard Cleanup • Sod Concrete • Sprinklers Tree Trimming/Cutting Planting Fertilization • Retaining Walls • Flagstone Fencing • Gutter Cleaning Power Raking • Aerating 720-436-6158 Lawn/Garden Services Landscape & Garden Sod, Rock, Mulch, Retaining Walls, Sprinklers, Sprinkler Repair, Flagstone, Fence Repair, Fertilize, Aeration, Yard Clean-Ups, Shrub Trimming/Removal, Rock Removal, Weed Control and Much More! Text or Call 720-982-9155 lawnservice9155@gmail.com CONTINENTAL INC. Commercial and Residential Lawn Maintenance Call for a FREE quote Mow - Edge - Trim Aeration & Fertilization Sprinkler Repair 720-283-2155 Continental8270@yahoo.com
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37 May 16, 2024 SERVICE DIRECTORY Service Directory Continues Next Page Lawn/Garden Services Alpine Landscape Management Weekly Mowing, Power Raking, Aerate, Fertilize, Spring Clean-up, Trim Bushes & Small Trees, Senior Discounts 720-329-9732 LAWN SERVICES C.Y. SIZE OF YARD MOW & TRIM MULCH & TRIM AERATION POWER RAKING SMALL $25 $25 $30 $75 MEDIUM $30-$35 $30-$35 $35-$40 $90-$105 LARGE $40$40$45$120I don’t take the grass or leaves away, but I do supply my own bags. RAKING LEAVES | FERTILIZING | FREE ESTIMATES I have all my own equipment. In business since 1991. CHRIS YOAKAM 303-745-7676 Serving Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Parker and Centennial SPRING/SUMMER: Landscaping, Tree & Shrub Trimming/Removal, Aeration, Sod, Edging, Rock, Mulch, Flagstone, Weekly Mowing, Deck/Fence Install/Repair, Power Washing. Colorado Lawn Care Licensed & Insured scottcindy4242@gmail.com 720-202-9975 Painting Helpful Ace Hardware Pro Painters is a residential painting company which specializes in exterior and interior painting. Our core values are honesty, integrity, service, quality and beauty and our focus is on delivering an outstanding customer experience. We currently include a full color consult, test pints and a detailed walkthrough with all of our paint jobs. Give us a call to set up a free estimate! (720) 432-6125 helpfulacehardwarepropainters.com • Benjamin Moore Paints • Labor and Materials Warranty • Free Estimates • Color Consultation Included • Kind/Highly Communicative Staff Painting 720-328-2572 C AL LTODAY FO R YOU RFRE E QUOTE Residential Experts We paint over 800 Homes Per Year No Deposit Ever Satisfaction Guaranteed Residential Experts We paint over 800 Homes Per Year. No Deposit Ever Satisfaction Guaranteed. 5 year, 7 year and 9 year 720-328-2572 innovativepaintingllc.com • HONEST PRICING • • FREE ESTIMATES • We will match any written estimate! No job too small or too big! Contact JR 720-984-5360 DANIEL’S PAINTING exterior • interior • residential repaints Re-caulk all home complete prime all caulked areas / replace any damaged boards / popcorn removal drywall and texture repair / fences and decks / insured and bonded 720-301-0442 Dan’s Painting Interior & Exterior Painting & Remodeling • 30 Years Experience •Family Owned •Insured & Bonded •Wallpaper Removal •Drywall Repair •Gutters & Carpentry •Tile & Plumbing •Residential & Commercial 720-628-1199 Plumbing Commercial/Residential For all your plumbing needs • Water Heaters • Plumbing Parts SENIOR DISCOUNTS www.frontrangepl Front Range Plumbing 303.451.1971 • Water Heaters • Plumbing Parts • Senior & Active Military Discounts frontrangeplumbing.com info@frontrangeplumbing.com Commercial/Residential • For all your plumbing needs I am a Master Plumber that has 15 years of experience, licensed and insured, and trying to get my own business up and going. I would be grateful for the opportunity to earn your business, to help a Colorado Native business grow. Mountain Men Plumbing has been around for almost two years now! www.MountainMenPlumbing.com Or give a call to (720) 328-8440! • Drain Cleaning Specialist • Camera & Sewer Repairs • 35 years experience DIRTY JOBS DONE DIRT CHEAP Call for a free phone quote 720-308-6696 • Plumbing Repairs • Open 24/7 • After 5:30 pm emergency calls Roofing/Gutters - Gutter cleaning /gutter covers available now - We are 100% Local & Have Great References - Roo ng • Siding • Paint • Windows • Gutters Have a Hail Damaged Roof? - Call Dave Vaughn 720-427-7422 - davegoldenspikeroo ng@gmail.com
May 16, 2024 38 SERVICE DIRECTORY Please support these amazing local businesses Roofing/Gutters 303-770-7663 www.ValorRoofandSolar.com Local Company Veteran Owned Integrity Focused VOTED BEST ROOFING COMPANY Complimentary Roof Inspections DEPENDABLE ROOF AND GUTTER REPAIR Repairs are all I do! Wind Damage & Fix Leaks Gutter repair/cleaning 40 years experience FREE Estimates (720)209-4589 Solar 303-647-3173 www.ValorRoofandSolar.com Residential and Commercial SOLAR SYSTEMS 303-770-7663 www.ValorRoofandSolar.com SOLAR SYSTEMS Residential and Commercial Tile omas Flooring & Tile • All Types of Tile • Granite-Ceramic • • Porcelain • Natural Stone • • Vinyl • Bathroom Remodel • 32 Years Experience • Work Warranty 303-781-4919 FREE Estimates Tile HARDWOOD , ... FOOTPRINTS Great F1oors. floors Great Impressions. Call today for a free estimate! 720-344-0939 WWW FOOTPRINTSFLOORS COM HARDWOOD, TILE, BACKSPLASHES & LAMINATES Great Floors. Great Impressions. 720-344-0939 | FOOTPRINTSFLOORS.COM Call today for a free estimate! ANYTHING TILE • Marble • Repairs • Granite Counter Tops Remodeling is my specialty! Call now for free estimate (303) 646-0140 Premier Tile and Stone Tile installation services All types of tile installations | Kitchens, bathrooms and more Large and small jobs welcome | 20+ years of experience Quality installation services 720-331-6400 Tree Service Continental Inc. Tree and Shrub Trimming CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE 720-283-2155 Tree Service Stump grinding specialist A-1 Stump Removal Most stumps $75.00 and up. $55 Minimum. Free estimates. Licensed & Insured. 41 years experience. Terry 303-424-7357 Corey 720-949-8373 A father and son team! Call or Text 10% OFF with coupon A-1 Stump Removal Stump grinding specialist ABE’S TREE & SHRUB CARE Abraham Spilsbury, Owner/Operator Certi ed Arborist Licensed & Insured Veteran Phone: 720-283-8226 Cell: 720-979-3888 •Pruning •Removals •Stump Grinding •Shrub Maintenance •Free Estimates Windows Insulated Vinyl & Steel Siding Soffit & Fascia • Metal, Wraps • Siding Repairs Owner: Samuel G. Fry 720.731.8789 SIDING & WINDOWS • LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCE
Fawning, calving season is underway
As spring unfurls its vibrant colors across the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, residents and visitors nd themselves amid a unique phenomenon – the birthing season of many wildlife species.
Among them, mule deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep and black bears stand out, captivating observers with their majesty. In this season of renewal and growth, these critters undergo a profound transformation – they become caretakers, nurturing new life into existence.
e arrival of spring heralds the onset of fawning and calving season, a time when wildlife gives birth to their young. For many Coloradans, this season brings both wonder and a heightened sense of awareness and responsibility. With human development increasingly encroaching upon wildlife habitats, residents and visitors alike are presented with the unique challenge of cohabitating with these animals while ensuring their safety and well-being.
In communities nestled within the foothills and valleys of Colorado, encounters with young wildlife, especially mule deer fawns and elk calves, are rather common in the months of May and June. ese vulnerable ospring, born with dappled coats that provide natural camou age, evoke a sense of awe among onlookers. Yet, as humans marvel at the beauty of
FROM THE WILDLIFE OFFICER’S DESK
nature’s creations, they must also exercise caution and respect for wildlife boundaries.
proach to their music, but the UK’s Holly Humberstone runs a
Jacob Sonberg, Scott Murdoch, Philip Sorensen, Mark Lamb, Matt Martinez & Kara VanHoose
Approaching or attempting to interact with fawns and calves can have serious consequences, both for critters and for humans. e temptation to interact with young wildlife is often high among the public, as fawns and calves are found motionless in yards and along trails. ough these young have not been abandoned as many believe – their ability to stay put for long periods of time away from their mothers is a natural defense mechanism to avoid detection by predators. e wildlife experts at Colorado Parks & Wildlife emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe distance and refraining from interfering with the natural processes of these critters.
In recent years, incidents of wellmeaning individuals “rescuing” seemingly abandoned fawns and calves have become increasingly common. However, Wildlife O cers caution against such interventions, as these actions can lead to the separation of young wildlife from their mothers. Additionally, stress caused by human disturbance can disrupt
bit counter by bringing in the listener as close as a whisper for her thoughtful explorations of love, loneliness and growing up. Last year she released her proper debut album, “Paint My Bedroom Black,” and it was one of my favorite al-
vital bonding and nursing behaviors between mothers and their o spring. Instead, folks are reminded to observe from a distance and trust the instincts of wildlife to care for their young. Fawning and calving season also coincides with increased humanwildlife con icts in Colorado’s wildland-urban interface. As development continues to encroach upon wildlife habitat, con icts between wildlife and humans become more frequent. Every spring, Wildlife O cers respond to calls about people getting charged, and even trampled, by deer, elk, and moose who react defensively to protect their young. ese incidents are often instigated by humans and/or dogs encroaching on the wildlife’s space, and are easily avoided by observing wildlife from an appropriate distance and keeping dogs on their leashes.
When observing wildlife in any season, but especially in the spring when young are on the landscape, always remember the “rule of thumb.” With an outstretched arm, point a thumb up in the air to make a “thumb’s up” gesture. If you can still see the wildlife around your thumb, you’re too close – back up until your thumb completely covers that critter. Additionally, changes in wildlife behavior in response to human presence means you’re too close – keep an eye out for critters stopping to look at you, ceasing feeding activity, moving away, and/or pinning their ears back.
Ultimately, the fawning and calving season serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance of coexistence between humans and wildlife. By respecting wildlife boundaries and fostering an understanding of the needs of mule deer, elk, and other species, residents of Colorado can ensure the well-being of both wildlife populations and themselves.
If you would like to get in touch with your local Wildlife O cer regarding wildlife violations, habitat projects, educational program opportunities, or other wildlife concerns and incidents, please contact CPW’s Northeast Region Service Center during normal business hours at 303-291-7227.
If you would like to report a wildlife incident and it is outside of normal business hours, please contact Colorado State Patrol’s Non-Emergency Dispatch at 303-239-4501 or *CSP (*277), and a Wildlife O cer will be in touch.
If you would like to report a wildlife violation, on record or anonymously, please contact Colorado Operation Game ief at 1-877-COLO-OGT (1877-265-6648).
Contributors to this column included Wildlife O cers Jacob Sonberg, Scott Murdoch and Philip Sorensen; Area Wildlife Managers Mark Lamb and Matt Martinez; and CPW NE Region PIO Kara VanHoose.
bums of the year.
In support of the record, Humberstone will be coming to the Bluebird Theater , 3317 E. Colfax Ave. in Denver, at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 20. She’ll be joined by singer/songwriter Carol Ades as opener. Get tickets at www.axs.com.
Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@ hotmail.com.
39 May 16, 2024 www.ColoradoCommunityMedia.com/Public-Notices Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com PUBLIC NOTICES Legals Name Changes PUBLIC NOTICE Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name Public notice is given on April 19, 2024, that a Petition for a Change of Name of an adult has been filed with the Elbert County Court. The Petition requests that the name of Amy Lynn Isaacs be changed to Amie Lynn Isaacs Case No.: 24 C 38 By: Judge Palmer Boyette Legal Notice No. ECN 1501 First Publication: May 9, 2024 Last Publication: May 23, 2024 Publisher: Elbert County News Elbert Legals | May 16, 2024
FROM PAGE 7 READER
13-16, 2024
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May May 16, 2024 40
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