Elbert County News 1210 by Colorado Community Media

December 10, 2015 VOLUME 120 | ISSUE 45 | 75¢

ElbertCountyNews.net E L B E R T C O U N T Y, C O L O R A D O

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Elbert County GOP changes leadership Three new ofﬁcers take posts as party looks toward future By Rick Gustafson Special to Colorado Community Media In a special meeting of the Elbert County Republican Vacancy Committee, area Republicans were called to the Elizabeth American Legion Hall on Dec. 2 to fill three executive officer positions. With a unanimous vote, Tom Peterson was elected as party chairman, taking the place of Scott Willis, who resigned on Nov. 11 to announce his candidacy for the District 3 county commissioner seat in 2016. Peterson has an extensive resume of service with the Republican Party and has held party offices in Elbert County since 2006, including precinct committee person, secretary, and most recently vice chairman. Peterson thanked Willis for his years of service as chairman and emphasized the need for teamwork within the party. “Each of you should understand the importance that no one (person) can do anything alone. This is truly a team effort, a group effort, and only the efforts of all of us working together can we accomplish what we strive to do … take our country back; ensure that we are moving in the direction of limited government, freedom, liberty, and the principles in which we stand for as Republicans,” he said.

GOP continues on Page 11

Tom Peterson, shown with his wife, Linda Peterson, is sworn in as the new Elbert County Republican Party chairman. Photo by Rick Gustafson

Lighting up Kiowa was possible thanks to the support of Sturgeon Electric, Elizabeth Networking Group, Berends Earthmoving, Rapid Medical, Ridgeline Construction, Patty Anne’s Café, Kiowa Lions Club, Kiowa Fire Department, the Cornine Family, and other local organizations, businesses, and families. Photos by Rick Gustafson

Lights reveal spirit of community Illumination is result of many helping hands By Rick Gustafson Special to Colorado Community Media The town of Kiowa presented its eighth annual Lighting of the Lights seasonal celebration on Nov. 28. Billed as the “ultimate beginning of the holiday season,” the day started at the Lions Hall with crafts and games for kids downstairs and the second annual customer appreciation sale in the Elbert County Coalition for Outreach thrift store upstairs. By 6:30 p.m., residents gathered on the lawn of the Kiowa Town Hall for Santa and Mrs. Claus. The magical couple arrived in a parade of lights, compliments of the Kiowa Fire Department, to throw the switch illuminating the two 50-foot-tall evergreens on the lawn. “It was so cold that I don’t think we had as many as normal,” said Town Administrator Michelle Oeser, who estimated a crowd of around 50 people. Following brief comments by the mayor highlighting significant events in Kiowa during the past year, the crowd moved down the hill to the warmth of Patty Anne’s Café for refreshments and pictures with Santa. “Patty Anne’s always makes homemade food and hot drinks,” Oeser said. “That’s all at no cost to the people who come in to mix and mingle.” With finances tight, the Lighting of

The eighth annual Lighting of the Lights seasonal celebration lit up Kiowa Town Hall Nov. 28. Residents gathered on the lawn to await Santa, who posed for pictures later at Patty Anne’s Café. the Lights celebration is funded entirely through donations rather than paid for out of the town’s budget, and if not for some quick work by local organizations, this year’s tree lighting might not have been possible. In previous years, a local benefactor had sponsored the lights, but this year, the cost to string the rented lights nearly doubled, and local groups stepped in to fill the gaps. According to Oeser, the groups raised enough money for the town to either buy lights for both trees but not put them up, or to buy and string lights for a single tree. “Then Sturgeon Electric stepped

up and donated their time and equipment and put the lights on. They will take them down for us too,” she said. With the purchase of the new lights, the town will only need to raise enough money, around $2,400, to have the lights put up and taken down next year. In addition to Sturgeon Electric and the Elizabeth Networking Group, local organizations, businesses and families chipped in to make the event possible. They included Berends Earthmoving, Rapid Medical, Ridgeline Construction, Patty Anne’s Café, Kiowa Lions Club and the Cornine family.

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December 10, 2015

Teen back in spotlight amid cancer fight While undergoing chemo, Dalton Levine returns to lead role By Chris Michlewicz cmichlewicz@colorado communitymedia.com It was nearly one year ago that Dalton Levine was flown by helicopter to a medical center after performing in “The Nutcracker.” He was undergoing treatment for adrenal cancer and was playing a smaller role than normal when he had a major health setback. Looking back, the 17-year-old says he was “pretty close to not making it.” So when Levine is asked if he’s nervous to return to the spotlight for this year’s rendition of “The Nutcracker of Parker” at the PACE Center Dec. 17-20, he’s very matter-of-fact. “There’s a lot I’ve had to overcome the past year, so my nerves have definitely been…” he trails off. “It’s very small compared to what I’ve done before.” Levine was diagnosed Sept. 11, 2014, and has been battling cancer ever since. He started another round of chemotherapy in July and his oncologists continue to radiate any spots on his lungs that pop up in scans. The Legend High School senior still gets tired on occasion and is fighting radiation pneumonitis, which leaves him with lessthan-optimal lung capacity and a persistent cough. But the cancer is in a “controlled state,” Levine says, and he’s feeling pretty good. He’s eager to get back on stage

IF YOU GO For tickets to the “The Nutcracker of Parker,” go to Parkerarts.org with his castmates from the Colorado School of Dance. Levine will mostly play “the Nutcracker Prince,” but will do one performance as “the Cavalier” for his first time. Sharing his strength Levine has been the subject of a viral hashtag. He was the focus of a nationwide campaign that raised money through dance. He was named Legend High School’s wish kid last year. He’s spoken to renowned choreographers who told him they’ve been praying for him. And a few months back, he was named as a Children’s Ambassador for Children’s Hospital and will spend part of 2016 attending fundraisers and sharing his story. Lisa Tuska, Levine’s godmother and life-long dance instructor, says it’s easy to see why he was chosen for that role. Levine’s message about strength in the face of adversity is inspiring. “He’s meant to be here, but some of the doctors told him they don’t know how he made it,” she says. “Now he’s going full steam.” Tuska and Levine’s mother, Karen, attribute his improvement to a never-quit approach and the unprecedented outpouring of love from family, friends and strangers, not to mention a great care team. Karen Levine, who often shares the

Dalton Levine, 17, slips on his tap shoes at Colorado School of Dance in Parker. Photo by Chris Michlewicz stage with her son while playing “Mother Ginger,” says she has watched her son endure setbacks, but also minor victories, like when a scan taken just before his first surgery revealed that the tumor had separated from his vital organs. Genetic testing also showed that the cancer was the result of a particular mutation that does not

run in the family, much to Dalton Levine’s relief. He has pulled back to some extent over the last 14 months, but has stayed active in dance and has pushed through. “It makes my heart very happy to see him performing and doing something that he loves,” Karen Levine says.

A renewed outlook Dalton Levine is already receiving acceptance letters in the mail from some of the five in-state schools to which he applied. He has a 4.0 grade-point average — while taking classes like Advanced Placement chemistry and college algebra — and is only six months from graduation. As a result of his treatment, Levine’s desired career path has deviated. “I’ve decided that I kind of want to go into the medical world, maybe be a doctor and work with pediatrics,” he says. “I see what (doctors and nurses) do and they’re changing kids’ lives every day and that’s just something that I want to do.” So his selected college will be one that puts him in prime position to go on to medical school. But before that, he has “The Nutcracker of Parker” and a series of dance competitions in late winter and early spring that will keep him busy. He will spend his downtime playing the violin and video games, and hanging out with friends, especially his dog, Kai, a 10-year-old golden retriever who “can always tell when I’m not feeling well,” he said. Levine looks forward to being a continued source of strength for himself and others and a positive influence on younger cancer patients. “I’ve always fought for my health and to just stay alive and I will always throughout my life stay as positive as I can, because I’ll know that there’s really no darker place I probably will ever be in,” he says.

Elbert County News 3

December 10, 2015

CALENDAR

Events Christmas Tree Lot Get the perfect Christmas tree at Boy Scout Troop 780’s tree lot, open from 5-9 p.m. weekdays; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays, at the south corner of Meadows Boulevard and Ambrosia Street, Castle Rock. The Scouts will sell fresh-cut trees, wreaths and garland. Free Lecture The Mérode Altarpiece, a masterpiece of 15th century Flemish art, is a three-panel painting of the Annunciation, and much more. A free lecture by Oxfordgraduate Alec Nesbitt explores and explains the mysteries and symbolism of the altarpiece, revealing the secret meanings hidden in its images. Nesbitt studied with Lord Kenneth Clark and Sir Ernst Gombrich, both Slade Professors of the History of Art at Oxford University. The lecture will be given at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at the Sanctuary, Christ’s Episcopal Church, 615 Fourth St., Castle Rock. Go to www.ChristmasInCastleRock.org. Call 303-6885185 for reservations. A good will offering will be appreciated, but admission is free. Community Blood Drives A number of community blood drives are planned in the area. For information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Bonﬁls Appointment Center

at 303-363-2300, unless otherwise noted. Go to www.bonﬁls. org. Upcoming blood drives are: Saturday, Dec. 12, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Philip S. Miller Library, 100 S. Wilcox St., Castle Rock; Wednesday, Dec. 16, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Walmart, 2100 Legacy Circle, Elizabeth; Friday, Dec. 18, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker; Monday, Dec. 21, 10-11:40 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m., Parker Adventist Hospital, 9395 Crown Crest Blvd., Parker; Tuesday, Dec. 22, 9-10:40 a.m. and noon to 2:30 p.m. at Castle Rock Adventist Health Campus, 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock; Tuesday, Dec. 22, 10-11:40 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m., Castle Rock Government, 100 Wilcox St., Castle Rock (contact Jane Chrestensen, 303-660-1397); Sunday, Dec. 27, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., New Hope Presbyterian Church, 3737 New Hope Way, Castle Rock. Hanukkah Celebration Parker Mayor Mike Waid, Parker council members and Rabbi Avraham Mintz will celebrate Chanukah at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at O’Brien Park, Parker.

Commitment Day 5K Fun Run/Walk Life Time Fitness in Parker kicks off the New Year with a part run/walk, part festival that includes an expo with numerous vendors on race morning. Run starts at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1, at Life Time Fitness, 9250 Crown Crest Blvd., Parker. Event is open to runners and walkers of all levels and abilities. Members and nonmembers welcome. Discounted registration available through Sunday, Dec. 13. Children 12 and younger may register for free with a registered adult. Go to www.commitmentday. com/colorado/parker-aurora. Group training available at www.lifetimerun.com/grouprun-training/co-commitmentday-5k-2016-parker. Contact Heather Crosby at hcrosby@ lifetimeﬁtness.com for additional information. Santa’s Toy Box Concert The Castle Rock Orchestra presents its Santa’s Toy Box Concert featuring traditional

favorites such as Nutcracker and Sleigh Ride, movie music favorites from Frozen and Star Wars, and new soon-to-be favorites such as Santa at the Symphony and Santa’s Noisy Toyshop. Toys for Tots will be onsite to collect any new, unwrapped presents for children in need. The performance is at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at First United Methodist Church, 1200 South St., Castle Rock. Suggested admission is $5 per person. Visit www.CastleRockOrchestra.org. Public Transit Outback Express is a public transit service provided through the East Central Council of Local Governments and is available to all residents. Call Kay Campbell, Kiowa, at 719- 5414275 or go to www.outbackexpress.tripod.com. Advance reservations appreciated. November schedule: Tuesday, Dec. 15, Kiowa, Elizabeth and Elbert to Parker or Colorado Springs; Thursday, Dec. 24, Simla and Matheson to Limon.

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Musical Merry Season at PACE

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The Manhattan Transfer performs at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at the PACE Center, Parker. The holiday season wraps up Thursday to Sunday, Dec. 17-20, with the Colorado School of Dance performing The Nutcracker of Parker. Show times are at 7 p.m. all four days and 2 p.m. Dec. 19-20. Tickets for all shows are available by calling 303-805-6800 or going to www.ParkerArts.org.

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4 Elbert County News

December 10, 2015

State unveils plan to manage water Proposal would require many groups to cooperate

By Dan Elliott Associated Press The snow that falls on the Colorado mountains melts into trillions of gallons of water every year, and most of it flows downstream to Mexico, California and 17 other states. In November, Colorado released its first-ever plan to cope with increasing competition for that water as the West grows drier. The plan sets conservation goals, outlines ways to share water during droughts and suggests ways to preserve the environment, recreation and agriculture while accommodating rapid population growth. It also has contentious elements, including a suggestion to increase water

storage, which usually means building dams and reservoirs. The plan doesn’t have teeth — it will be up to state and local governments, water utilities, irrigation districts and others to provide the money and muscle to make it work. But it won praise as a good step toward preparing for inevitable shortages in the future. Key questions and answers about the plan: Why is it important? Almost 4.6 trillion gallons of water rushes out of Colorado’s mountains each year as the winter snow melts. Two-thirds of it belongs to downstream users under a collection of international treaties, interstate agreements and court rulings. Colorado gets the rest. “Strategic planning for Colorado is

‘This isn’t the end, this is the beginning. Time is of the essence. ... We have to get right to work.’ Gov. John Hickenlooper

strategic planning for the West,” said James Eklund, director of the Colorado Water Conservation Board, which wrote the water plan. Four significant rivers originate in the state: the Colorado, the Rio Grande, the Platte and the Arkansas. Why is it needed? With its growing population, Colorado faces a shortfall of about 182 billion gallons a year by 2050, according to state projections. It also needs water for agriculture, the environment and things like skiing, fishing and rafting that make the state so attractive to visitors and new businesses. Downstream states also are growing, so Colorado will have no choice but to send them their share. While the West’s population grows, persistent droughts and climate change are expected to limit or shrink the supply. “Obviously, if it wasn’t clear before, it’s becoming more clear with every passing year, we’ve got a very limited resource in the West,” said David Nickum, executive director of Colorado Trout Unlimited. What will it do? The plan will set specific goals for conservation, although the effect on individual households hasn’t been calculated. It will also propose a way to let farmers and ranchers sell their water to municipal utilities for a specific length of time but

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allow them to resume using that water themselves in the future. That would avoid a practice called “buy and dry,” where utilities buy farms and ranches to get their water, permanently taking the land out of agricultural production. It lays out guidelines for projects that would move more water from the western half of Colorado to the east — regions often at odds over water — but Gov. John Hickenlooper said such projects would be a last resort. The plan encourages local governments to combine their water planning and land use planning to reduce outdoor uses such as lawn watering and encourage water recycling. It also encourages management plans for rivers and streams to keep their ecosystems healthy. What’s next? State government doesn’t have the power to force the plan on anyone. Instead, it will depend on the cooperation of local governments, water utilities, businesses, conservationists, and farmers and ranchers. The Legislature also would have to pass laws and appropriate money, and the executive branch would have to steer some of the initiatives. “This isn’t the end, this is the beginning,” Hickenlooper said after the plan was released. “Time is of the essence. ... We have to get right to work.”

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Elbert County News 5

December 10, 2015

EXTRA! EXTRA! Have a news or business story idea? We'd love to read all about it. To send us your news and business press releases please visit coloradocommunitymedia.com, click on the Press Releases tab and follow easy instructions to make submissions.

Pick the fare that's right for you (coming January 1, 2016) RTD’s new fares will take effect January 1, 2016. The new fares streamline the way passengers pay for their trips across our expanding transit system. Check out what fare product is best for you: You ride RTD:

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6 Elbert County News

December 10, 2015

VOICES

LOCAL

Keep running strong as year is running out Some companies follow the calendar year as their fiscal year and others may follow a different fiscal year with many of them starting their year in October. So for those who started in October, the focus is on starting strong, and for those who began their journey back in January, the emphasis is on finishing strong. For most individuals, we started our year back in January and we are now looking at winding down the year and looking ahead to next year. So for both individuals and businesses, here we are, either at the beginning of the year or at the end of the year. And the question is, how are we doing on our strength-meter? Have we gotten out to a great start or are we struggling? In either case we have to ask ourselves: Why? This is important because if we can recognize where our strengths are and what has gotten us off to that good or fast start, we can build upon those strengths so that we can maintain positive momentum and stay strong in the pursuit of our goals. It is equally important to acknowledge why and where we may be struggling or even failing. An honest reflection and assessment on our personal goals and business goals will allow us to course-correct and make adjustments to our actions, behaviors, and maybe even our teams in order to get back on track. Whenever I think about this topic or talk with business executives or people I have coached, I am always reminded of one of the sayings someone shared with me when I

first started skiing here in Colorado. It was a really cold day, and as we were putting on our gear in the lodge and debating the topic of how we should or shouldn’t layer up, someone from ski patrol passed by and shared these word, Michael Norton “start warm, stay warm, and you will finish WINNING warm.” Brilliance. The same holds true WORDS for how we pursue our personal and professional goals and objectives, we need to start strong, stay strong, and finish even stronger. At this time of year, many people are so close to achieving and even surpassing their own personal goals. And then the holidays hit, party invitations, big meals, rich desserts, a little more wine, a little more beer, and before we know it, we have forgotten to finish what we started and talk ourselves into starting all over again next year. You have to remind yourself to stay strong, finish even stronger, and that you are almost there. The same holds true for some businesses, especially sales people. They are so close to meeting and exceeding quotas, but then they allow themselves to believe that their

customers and prospects are on vacation or taking time for the holidays and they make the crucial mistake of waiting until January to re-engage and make contact again. And what they find is that their customer or prospect found an alternate solution and partner to provide the needed products or services. How do we start strong? Set proper goals, prepare and plan for success, and then focus on action and execution. How do we stay strong? Recognize what we are doing right and repeat the pattern and leverage successes. Look at failures and understand what went wrong so we can modify our plans and get back on track. How do we finish even stronger? Don’t take your foot off the accelerator. Think about what you have done, the behaviors you have been doing that have gotten you so close to your target, and continue executing those behaviors. Start warm, stay warm, finish warm. Start strong, stay strong, finish even stronger. How are you doing? Are you starting strong or are you planning on finishing strong? Either way I would love to hear all about it at gotonorton@gmail.com. And when we start strong, stay strong, and finish even stronger it really will be a better than good week. Michael Norton is a resident of Castle Rock, the former president of the Zig Ziglar Corporation, a strategic consultant and a business and personal coach.

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Expansion does a number on common sense There are 15 members of the Big Ten Conference. It’s ridiculous. What do you tell your son or daughter, who might just be learning basic mathematics? I guess you could tell the kid that there are 10 big members and five little members. But wait a minute. If you think you’ve caught me in a typo, not this time. And I’ll bet that there aren’t 15 of you who can name all 15. I can name the colors and nicknames of all of them, which tells you something. I am going to give you 10, and let you think about the other five. My father attended Michigan. I know that he would not be happy with the expansion. One of the schools, maybe two, simply don’t belong. OK, here we go. Michigan and Michigan State. It’s a great rivalry. Ohio State. Ugh. Indiana, Illinois and Iowa. Northwestern should be in the Ivy League. The Wisconsin Badgers, Purdue Boilermakers and Minnesota Golden Gophers. Great nicknames. Are you ready for the next five? I’ll bet you a blue jay you can’t name the 15th. A few years ago all of the major conferences expanded. My school’s league, the Pac-10, admitted Colorado and Utah. I was happy about it, because it meant that I would get more local Pac-12 coverage. I don’t know how CU fans feel about it, because the football team has done very poorly.

Anna Sutterer

GUEST COLUMN

But that’s not the only sport in town. CU track and crosscountry are top ranked programs. Notre Dame was asked to join, but declined. They are in their own world, although some Irish teams compete in the Atlantic Coast Craig Marshall Smith Conference. Makes no sense. QUIET The best league DESPERATION addition was Penn State, annually a football powerhouse, until recently, and always excellent in women’s volleyball. Then Nebraska was lured out of the Big 8, which they completely dominated for years (along with Oklahoma). The Cornhuskers are struggling in the Big Ten, and their fans aren’t used to struggling. The Huskers are 3-5. When did that last happen? They might not even make it to a bowl game. Then things got weird. Rutgers and Maryland were added. Why? The thinking is that Rutgers would give the Big Ten some visibility in the New York City area. Unfortunately, Rutgers came in wearing some dirty laundry. I don’t get Maryland. And they have some of the ugliest uniforms in the NCAA. I slipped a hint in here, about the fifteenth

member. Time’s up. Johns Hopkins. Johns Hopkins is an “affiliate member.” The football team is undefeated, 7-0. But they don’t play in the Big Ten. They have played and beaten schools like Susquehanna, Muhlenberg and Gettysburg. Those are Division III schools. Now maybe you can guess which Johns Hopkins teams compete in the Big Ten. Lacrosse, where they excel. I said that I would bet you a blue jay. That was the hint. They’re the Johns Hopkins Blue Jays. And they bring glamour to the Big Ten, at least in one sport. The men have been national champions nine times, but not since joining the Big Ten. Do you know who won the 2015 national championship? The University of Denver Pioneers. From 1998 to 2007, the school’s mascot was a red-tailed hawk. Makes no sense. DU subsequently considered an elk and a jackalope. Which makes no sense either. My father used to sing a strange little song about his school. “Don’t send my boy to Illinois, a dying mother said, Don’t send my boy to Ohio, I’d rather he were dead, But send my boy to Michigan ...” Let me know where to send the blue jay.

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We welcome event listings and other submissions. Please visit our website, click on the Submit Your News tab and choose a category from the drop down menu.

Columnists & Guest Commentaries The Elbert Co. News features a limited number of regular columnists, found on these pages and elsewhere in the paper, depending on the typical subject the columnist covers. Their opinions are not necessarily those of the Elbert Co. News. Want your own chance to bring an issue to our readers’ attention, to highlight something great in our community, or just to make people laugh? Why not write a letter of 300 words or fewer. Include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone. Email letters to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com Deadline Fri. 5 p.m. for the following week’s paper.

Craig Marshall Smith is an artist, educator and Highlands Ranch resident. He can be reached at craigmarshallsmith@comcast.net.

Talking about racism: Let’s get uncomfortable The pain of racism is real and immediate: A young black woman looks toward the sky, tears leaving trails on her cheeks. As she chants, “We have nothing to lose but our chains,” she collapses into the arms of her friends. Jonathan Butler, a black 25-yearold graduate student, refuses to eat until the University of Missouri system’s president, Tim Wolfe, steps down. Concerned Student 1950, a group of black rights activists on campus,

Production/Marketing Manager SCOTT ANDREWS

present to university administration eight demands they believe will catalyze action against systematic discrimination at the school. I watched these scenes at my school gain national attention over the past three weeks. I saw lasting effects of Missouri’s slave state history, and the shooting in Ferguson just two hours east of the Columbia campus, contribute to a tense campus climate. A series of prejudiced acts at the university over recent years exposed holes in administration control and

left black students unsure of their position on campus. Rows of seats in lecture halls sat empty as students supported protests by holding walkouts. I was handed a flier promoting a student center merchandise boycott; some students did not want to support MU as a business during this time. My Facebook and Instagram feeds filled with inflammatory posts supporting or denouncing Sutterer continues on Page 7

What is Sustainable Printing? It’s the paper: Biodegradable, renewable, recycled, reusable. It’s the ink: Soy based inks are used, reused then recycled. It’s the plate: Process-free plates eliminate VOC’s and reduce water usage. It’s the press: Using cold-set presses reduces the amount of VOC’s put into the air. It’s the location: Printed locally reducing shipping and postage costs, while saving gas, emissions and time.

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December 10, 2015

Sutterer Continued from Page 6

the protesters. At first, I wanted to stay out of the fray. I am a white, 19-year-old woman from a fairly homogenous Denver suburb. How could I understand enough to participate meaningfully? My first reactions were of anxiety and avoidance. But then I realized, as a Christian, as a journalist, and as a human being, I must be willing to enter into the tension. I stood in protest crowds and watched people of different races, areas of study and ages embrace one another. I listened to a black student share an instance when strangers made gorilla noises and beat their chests at him. I saw grief on classmates’ faces and imagined their minds reeling with times they’d experienced discrimination or outright hatred — how those past moments must have felt so present. It took witnessing these events for me to confront my own biases and think critically about race relations, not abstractly this

time, but alongside those who experience it every day. After many conversations with friends and family, I started asking one question: How do we sort through arguments and layered emotions to reach a core where we can unite and make change? I’ve been part of a deeply distressed community before. The shooting at Arapahoe High School my senior year disrupted our peace and left us with many questions. But parents, counselors, teachers, friends and other schools in the area responded with strength and cooperation. Protests, walkouts and media attention interrupted the university and overshadowed conversations about practically anything else. Violent threats on social media threw students into confusion and fear, and I found myself saying similar prayers to those I had said two years ago. The issues and circumstances are different; however, seeing Arapahoe redeemed gives me a sustained hope for community revival. Discussions in classes, at my campus ministry and at church have taught me my experiences and perspectives are not the whole truth. I have some listening to do. I must acknowledge what I don’t know, and

understand that sometimes I’ll have to ask awkward questions to combat my ignorance. I am challenged to see beneath the surface. The young man from the gorilla story said racism dehumanizes everyone involved and degrades people to one dimension. My subconscious biases sometimes prevent me from looking at people and understanding their lives hold as many intricacies as my own. Moving to Missouri’s diversity has shown me how challenging this can be. I must continuously check my thoughts and fight off immediate judgments. It can be an exhausting daily exercise, but growth is worth it. The university has made administrative changes and created positions focused on inclusion. I am hopeful for any move toward reconciliation, but we will have to wait and see how these will directly affect individual temperaments. I am most optimistic about a diversitytraining program required of all faculty, staff and incoming students beginning in January. They will be informed about campus racism issues, diverse organizations

and resources, and personal responsibilities toward inclusivity. I’ve received emails from the university sharing plans, promising we will get to a better place eventually. I’ve read columns and reflections and social media posts expressing analogous calls to action. What sticks out to me most is the role of the Christian Gospel, and how these events challenge my faith to walk the walk. Colossians 3 says we are to “bear with one another” despite our grievances. My pastor at The Crossing Church in Columbia said love and humility are attractive to all people — that’s how to approach these difficult topics. Racism is a real and immediate problem: We must be willing to stick around and listen to those voices that erupt out of frustration, examine our own hearts, and then share our experiences with others who have not been exposed directly to ongoing prejudice and discrimination. That would be a start to healing the pain.

month at the Legion Post Hall at South Banner Street and Elm Street in Elizabeth. All veterans are invited to attend these meetings to learn of their eligibility for membership in the National American Legion Organization.

welcome phone calls. Group participation is free, and building is accessible.

tion is not required. Visit the Simla Branch of the Elbert County Library District at 504 Washington Avenue, call 719-541-2573, or email farabe@ elbertcountylibrary.org.

Anna Sutterer lives in Centennial and is a sophomore at the University of Missouri.

CLUBS Ongoing Douglas-Elbert County Music Teachers’ Association meets at 9 a.m. every first Thursday at Parker Bible Church, between Jordan and Chambers on Main Street. All area music teachers are welcome. Call Lucie Washburn, 303-814-3479. The Elbert County Sheriff’s Posse is a nonprofit volunteer organization that is part of the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office. As volunteers we support the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office, all law enforcement in our county, and the community at large. For more information or a membership application, go to www.elbertcountysheriff.com/ posse.html, or contact Dave Peontek at 303646-5456. Elizabeth American Legion Post 82, a 96-year veterans association supporting veterans, their families, their survivors and the community, meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each

The Elizabeth Food Bank, 381 S. Banner in Elizabeth (next door to Elizabeth Presbyterian Church) needs to let the public know that we are available to help anyone who needs food. The hours are Friday 12:30-3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9-11:30 a.m. Other times by appointment. Finding Our Way Together, a brand new group for anyone who is alone, left out, picked on or overwhelmed by life. Since it is just forming, the group will evolve to ﬁt the needs of the participants. Group will meet at 10 a.m. Saturdays at 34061 Forest Park Drive, in the lower level of Elizabeth Family Health. Leaders are Mary, 720638-9770, and Karen, 303-243-3658, and both

Warm wishes for this holiday season.

Happy Holidays, from Peak Vista

Lawyers at the Library, a free legal clinic for parties who have no attorney, will be offered from 6-9 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at the Elizabeth Library, 651 W. Beverly St. Volunteer attorneys will answer questions, help fill out forms and explain the process and procedure for the areas of family law, civil litigation, criminal defense, property law, probate law, collections, appeals, landlord-tenant law and civil protection orders. Walk-ins are welcome. Everyone will be helped on a first-come, first-served basis. Mystery Book Club meets at 9:30 a.m. the first Saturday of each month at the Simla Public Library. The group enjoys talking about a variety of mystery authors and titles. We also periodically host a Colorado author during our meetings. Everyone may join us, and registra-

The Outback Express is a public transit service provided through the East Central Council of Local Governments is open and available to all residents of Cheyenne, Elbert, Kit Carson and Lincoln counties and provides an economical and efﬁcient means of travel for the four-county region. Call Kay Campbell, Kiowa, at 719- 541-4275. You may also call the ECCOG ofﬁce at 1-800-8250208 to make reservations for any of the trips. You may also visit www.outbackexpress.tripod. com. To ensure that a seat is available, 24-hour advance reservations are appreciated.

Clubs continues on Page 10

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8 Elbert County News

December 10, 2015

Parker Artists Guild holds two exhibits PACE Center, Schoolhouse are venues for shows By Sonya Ellingboe sellingboe@coloradocommunitymedia.com The active Parker Artists Guild has two shows on display for the holidays: “Within My 20 Mile Radius” is in the gallery and on lobby walls of the PACE Center through Jan. 9. Described as the biggest show of the year, it includes watercolor and oil/acrylic paintings, three-dimensional works, photography and mixed media. Marianne Mitchell was the juror. Mitchell is a painter who graduated with a BFA from Washington University in St. Louis and studied internationally in Asia and at the Vermont Studio Center. She has lived in the West since 2012 and is creating “works that capture this sense of equilibrium between tangible and intangible elements in nature and humanity.” Two of her paintings are included in the exhibit, and her work is collected nationally and

IF YOU GO The PACE Center is at 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker, and the Schoolhouse is nearby at 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker. Admission is free. 303-805-6800.

internationally. She awarded Best of Show to Cam Fogt for “Mountains, Trees, Rivers,” created with layers of painting on rice paper, attached to a canvas, a highly textured, subtly colored landscape abstraction. Rebecca Hall’s delicate first-place watercolor, “Clematis,” bears a ribbon, as does Tomiko Takada’s “Place of Innocence” in the oil/acrylic category. Sara Jo Light’s ceramic “Renewal and Rebirth” won first place in 3-D, and Lois Lake’s engaging photograph “Ladybug Meets the Bee” was named first in that category. Mixed media first place was awarded to Kay Moore’s “Garden Storm.”

Other award winners: Betsy Carson, Elaine Tsumura, Andrey Ledgerwood, Barbara Fabing, Jeannie Paty and Mark Hollenbeck. (I giggled at his “Relocation,” which took honorable mention in oil/acrylic.) Also winners: Ron Ferreira, Beverly Baldwin, Barbara Wilson, John Creighton, Sandy Walden, Jerry Walters, Gina Popolizio, Pamela Hake and Tadashi Hayakawa. In the newly remodeled Schoolhouse (formerly the Mainstreet Center), art lovers will find “Miniatures and More,” which includes affordable two- and three-dimensional art by guild members, including boxed note cards featuring select show art ($20). Guild member Tadashi Hayakawa, an internationally known painter, has generously donated two paintings, “Spirit of Flora # 10” and “Spirit of Flora # 11,” each valued at $700, to the guild for a silent auction, which, like the show, runs through Jan. 29, 2016. Bidding starts at $100 and proceeds of the auction will go to the guild’s youth projects, as will income from the note cards.

Parker artist Tadashi Hayakawa has donated this painting and another one to the Parker Arts Guild for silent auction in association with the Guild’s “Miniatures and More” exhibit in the Schoolhouse Gallery. Proceeds will go to the guild’s youth art projects.

Classes nurture a wide range of area artists By Sonya Ellingboe sellingboe@coloradocommunitymedia.com Located at 380 Perry St. in Castle Rock, just above Dream Pastries, in the heart of the downtown business district, is The Atelier at Castle Rock, a treasure that artists and collectors will want to include in their lists of contacts. Award-winning local painter Diane Rappisi rented it as studio space when she and her husband moved to Castle Rock several years ago, and now it also serves as a classroom where Rappisi teaches beginners to professional artists.

CONTACT INFORMATION The Atelier at Castle Rock is located at 380 Perry St., second floor, in Castle Rock. See ateliercastlerock.com and rappisiart. com for more information about the artist and her work. 609-206-1907. Present class titles include “Introduction to Color” and “Color Study and Practice II;” “The Alla Prima Portrait” (done in one sitting); “The Extended Still Life;” “Advanced Figure-Long Pose;” and “Introduction to the Figure.” The Atelier also offers commis-

sioned portraits, private critiques and portfolio reviews, in addition to a year-round schedule of classes in an intimate environment and workshops with visiting artists. The goal is a strong foundation in figures, still life and landscape. Classes vary in size, she said, with four or five students a typical number (10 is the maximum). She has been teaching two days a week and is expanding to three next year. Rappisi, who now lives in Highlands Ranch, said she was a self-taught portrait artist until she was in her late 40s, when she enrolled in Philadelphia’s Studio Incamminati, founded by renowned artist Nelson Shanks. There she received formal training in traditional art from a number of well-

known artists and also absorbed the course in teacher training. She was recently awarded Best of Show in the National Juried Exhibition of the Pastel Society of the Southwest and will participate in the 2016 Governor’s Art Show in Loveland in 2016. She is a member of the Pastel Society of America, the Oil Painters of America, Salmagundi Club in New York and Plein Air Artists of Colorado. Her working studio also serves as a gallery for her paintings. She keeps a collection of still life objects on hand and is generally accompanied by her sweet golden retriever, Sammie, who is a receptive audience when she talks on her drive from home to studio.

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Elbert County News 9

December 10, 2015

Hard work pays off for Parker Klein Ponderosa junior lauded as soccer player of year

By Jim Benton jbenton@coloradocommunitymedia.com Parker Klein worked hard to be the best. And he is the best this season in the south suburbs of Denver, as he was named the Colorado Community Media South Metro Boys Soccer Player of the Year. “I performed really well,” said Klein, a Ponderosa High School junior. “It was one of the best seasons I’ve had in a long time, and it was the most fun. “I trained almost every day this season, whether it was team practice or in the gym with my friends or even just getting out and shooting on the weekend when we didn’t have games. It was just that constant feeling that I would sure like to be the best. If you really want to be the best you have to live, breathe and experience soccer to the fullest.”

Klein, a midfielder, led the Class 5A Continental League in goals with 20 and points with 49 while playing for the Class 4A Mustangs. “Parker was a junior captain,” said Ponderosa coach Jim Engels. “He is well-liked by his teammates and a great team player. He is very humble and very coachable. In the 17 years that I have been at Ponderosa, he is the best all-around player that I have ever coached.” Klein, who has played for the Real Colorado national team, was the co-player of the year in the Continental League. “My preparation and overall mindset helped me this season,” offered Klein. “The way I prepared my body helped a lot. My diet and coming in with the mindset to have fun and using that confidence I was building over each game helped. The confidence and just having fun helped me. “It’s weird but it’s also fun to just kind of overcome the challenges on and off the field. If you do that, the success is that much more special.”

Ponderosa junior Parker Klein is the Colorado Community Media South Metro Boys Soccer Player of the Year. Courtesy photo

Colorado Golf Club lands another big tourney 2019 USGA Mid-Amateur Championship set for Parker Staff report Another championship tournament is headed for the Colorado Golf Club in Parker. The United States Golf Association announced Dec. 3 that the Parker golf course will be the host site for the 2019 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship. It will be the first USGA championship held at the club and the dates have been set for Sept. 21-26. The Colorado Golf Club was the site of the 2010 Senior PGA Championship when Tom Lehman defeated Fred Couples and David Frost in a playoff to capture his first senior major title. In 2013 the Solheim Cup, which featured teams of female profession-

als representing Europe and the United States, was held at the Colorado Golf Club. Europe beat the U.S. 18-10 to win on American soil for the first time since the event was created in 1990. The Colorado Golf Club hosted a U.S. Open local qualifier in 2009 and sectional qualifiers for the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Women’s Amateur in 2007. “Colorado Golf Club is a strategic and demanding championship venue, and we could not be more proud to welcome the 2019 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship,” said club president Matt Kellogg in a press release. “With its emphasis on the amateur golfer, the Mid-Amateur is meaningful to our members and to golf enthusiasts everywhere. We are thrilled to have the Mid-Amateur as our first USGA Championship.” The U.S. Mid-Amateur, first played in 1981, is open to amateurs age 25 and older with a handicap index not exceed-

ing 3.4. “The USGA is pleased to bring a championship to Colorado Golf Club for the first time,” USGA Vice President and Championship Committee Chairman Diana Murphy said in a statement. “The course has a proven record in both stroke-play and match-play competition, and the variety of risk-reward options will allow for exciting and dramatic play, helping to identify a champion worthy of hoisting the Robert T. Jones Jr. Memorial Trophy.” Colorado Golf Club opened in 2007, and the course was designed by Bill Coore and two-time Masters champion Ben Crenshaw. The 1,700-acre property was once an Arabian horse ranch. CommonGround Golf Course in Aurora will serve as the stroke-play co-host for the 2019 Mid-Amateur. The Mid-Am consists of two days of stroke play with the leading 64 golfers then playing a

knockout match play competition. Like the U.S. Amateur, the Mid-Am consists of two days of stroke play, with the leading 64 competitors then playing a knockout competition held at match play to decide the champion. While the list of winners is considerably less illustrious than that of the U.S. Amateur, one notable winner was Jay Sigel, a three-time winner of this event and a two-time U.S. Amateur champion who went on to play the Champions Tour. The winner receives an automatic invitation to play in the Masters Tournament. The 2019 U.S. Mid-Amateur will be the 32nd USGA championship contested in Colorado. The Broadmoor Golf Club in Colorado Springs will host the 2018 U.S. Senior Open. The only other U.S. MidAmateur held in the Centennial State was played in 1983 at Cherry Hills, where Jay Sigel won the third of his five USGA championships, 1 up, over Randy Sonnier.

Dr. Kim’s Do’s and Dont’s for Healthy Winter Skin • DO transition from an exfoliating cleanser to a mild facial and body cleanser without fragrance. • DO take short showers with lukewarm water during the dry, winter months. After patting skin dry, apply a moisturizing cream or lotion immediately after showering. Creams with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and/or emollients such as petrolatum are especially effective. Hot showers, especially taken more than once daily, strip the skin of natural oils and ceramides. • DO apply a lotion or cream with SPF 20 or greater to the face, even during the winter months. Broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB), physical-blocking agents with the active ingredients of zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide are best. • DO utilize a humidifier at home to prevent dry, cracked skin and to keep skin hydrated throughout the season

Colorado Skin and Vein Provides Outstanding Services for: Skin Cancer. Varicose Veins. Body Contouring. Laser Resurfacing. Acne. Scar Revision. Spider Veins. Skin Growths. Botox. Warts. Facial Redness and Veins. Mole Removal. Laser Hair Removal. Juvederm. Rashes. Cysts. Pediatric Dermatology. To set an appointment to see Dr. Kim for your skin care needs please call Colorado Skin and Vein at 303-683-3235 We are conveniently located at 6660 Timberline Road in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Most major insurance plans accepted.

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For starters, elves shop at Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply. The elves have been busy at Murdoch’s, putting their stamp of approval on gifts throughout the store. This Christmas Season, get the best western lifestyle gifts for your pets and family – all Elf Approved -- only at Murdoch’s. Shop online or find a store near you at murdochs.com. Murdoch’s... making Christmas merry!

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10 Elbert County News

December 10, 2015

Clubs Continued from Page 7

Overeaters Anonymous meets from 10-11 a.m. and from 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays in the Sedalia Room at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 2100 Meadows Parkway, Castle Rock. Seniors meet in Elizabeth every Monday at 11

a.m. for food, fun and fellowship at Elizabeth Senior Center, 823 S. Banner St. Bring a dish for potluck on the ﬁrst Monday of each month. Other Mondays, bring a sack lunch. Bingo, games and socializing. New leadership. Call Agnes at 303-883-7881 or Carol at 303-646-3425 for information. Therapeutic riding. Promise Ranch Therapeutic Riding in Parker offers free therapeutic riding for developmentally disabled adults and children.

Scholarship money is available for Douglas County residents to provide 10 therapeutic riding lessons. Call 303-841-5007 or visit www. promiseranchtherapeuticriding.com. Sky Cliff Adult Day Center Support Groups: Stoke Victors meets from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the second and last Wednesday of each month. Lunch is provided. Contact Sue Parson, 303814-2863. Evening Stroke Victors meets from 6-7:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month.

Cookies and coffee provided. Contact Sue Parson, 303-814-2863. Caregivers Support Group meets from 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays. All groups meet at Sky Cliff Adult Day Center in Castle Rock. Contact Sky Cliff at 303-814-2863. Visit www. skycliff.org. VFW Post 10649 meets monthly at 8:30 a.m. the ﬁrst Saturday of every month at 24325 Main St., Elbert. Go to www.vfwpost10649.org. Contact Alan Beebe at 303-435-2560 for questions.

an d s uppor t t he Red Cros s .

Signing up for Saver’s Switch® has always been a helpful, responsible thing to do. And now, through December 31, 2015, when you sign up Xcel Energy will make a $25 donation to the Red Cross. On days of peak electric demand, Saver’s Switch can cycle your AC off and on to help reduce energy consumption, which is good for everyone. Throughout the year, the Red Cross helps our community in so many ways. So sign up today…and join us in supporting them. Sign up today at xcelenergy.com/SaversSwitch. xcelenergy.com Xcel Energy will donate to the American Red Cross $25 per customer signing up for Saver’s Switch between November 15 and December 31, 2015, up to $100,000. Additional requirements may apply. The American Red Cross name and emblem are used with its permission, which in no way constitutes an endorsement, express or implied, of any product, service, company, opinion or political position. The American Red Cross logo is a registered trademark owned by the American Red Cross. For more information about the American Red Cross, please visit www.redcross.org. © 2015 Xcel Energy Inc.

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Elbert County News 11

December 10, 2015

GOP Continued from Page 1

Peterson also emphasized the importance of election turnout and the significant role Elbert County can play in electing Republican candidates at the top of the ticket. “In a close, tight election we need to offset those votes coming out of Boulder, Denver, Pueblo and those liberal counties,” he said. “That would be a thrust in terms of our goals and

our role here in Elbert County.” Additionally, two other central committee offices were filled. Members elected Precinct 2 committee member Bob Lewis to replace Peterson as vice chairman, and Danny Wilcox, a committee member from Precinct 9, to replace Secretary Chris Richardson, who resigned at the beginning of the meeting to announce his candidacy for the District 1 county commissioner seat. Colorado Secretary of State Wayne Williams administered the oath of office to the new officers and noted the importance

of Elbert County to Republicans in statewide elections. “When you look at the total population numbers, some people may be thinking Elbert’s not that big, but when you look at the margin that you contribute to those of us who are running statewide, it is absolutely huge,” Williams said. “You’re really important, and that’s why I’m delighted these folks are taking these oaths and putting their time and treasure on the line for us.”

Secretary of State Wayne E. Williams swears in Bob Lewis as vice chairman. Photo by Rick Gustafson

Salomess Stars Salome FOR RELEASE WEEK OF NOV. 30, 2015 ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You might feel that you have all the answers right now. But it might be wise to listen to other ideas before you decide to close the lid on other possibilities. TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Bovines give and expect loyalty, so it might not be easy to reconcile with someone you feel let you down. Why not ask a neutral party to set up a clear-the-air meeting? GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Anticipating the holidays with family and friends fuels your must-do Gemini energies. But try to pace yourself so you’ll be up for whatever comes along later. CANCER (June 21 to July 22) More background information might come through regarding a decision you expect to make. Be sure to check the source carefully before you move. LEO (July 23 to August 22) The strong, nurturing nature of the Lion comes through this week as you reach out to family and friends in need of your warm and loving support. VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A relationship that has almost totally unraveled could be close to being restored with more effort on your part to be more patient and less judgmental. LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Your sense of fair play is strong this week, which can cause a problem with a longtime relationship. But in the end, you’ll know what decision to make. SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You might not know all the facts behind an unwelcome development, so keep that Scorpion temper in check and resist lashing out at anyone. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) This is a good time to reinforce relationships -- family, friends, colleagues -- that might have been overlooked in recent years. CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Family situations continue to thrive. Business associations also improve. Some holiday plans might have to be shifted a bit. Be flexible.

Super Crossword & Sudoku Answers

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Avoid any influence of negative energy in this week’s aspect by not allowing small problems to grow into large ones. Work them out immediately. PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A friend might need advice on how to deal with a challenge to his or her moral values. And who better than you to give the honest answer? Good luck.

Notices BORN THIS WEEK: You have a sense of adventure that inspires others to follow your lead.

Public Notices Notice To Creditors

Notice To Creditors

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Donna Kay Hunt, a/k/a Donna K. Hunt, a/k/a Donna Hunt, f/k/a Donna K. Backes, Deceased Case Number: 2015PR30037

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Dale L. Balenseifen, aka Dale Balenseifen, and Dale Lee Balenseifen, Deceased Case Number: 2015 PR 030036

All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Elbert, County, Colorado on or before March 26, 2016, or the claims may be forever barred. Devin Backes Personal Representative 4935 Old Post Road, Apt. #41 Ogden, UT 84403 Legal Notice No.: 23280 First Publication: November 26, 2015 Last Publication: December 10, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News

All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before April 11, 2016 or the claims may be forever barred. Suzanne B. Balenseifen Personal Representative 4810 North Mesa Drive Castle Rock, Colorado 80108 Legal Notice No: 23290 First Publication: December 10, 2015 Last Publication: December 24, 2015 Publisher: Elbert County News

To advertise your public notices call 303-566-4100

Holiday Deadlines for Legal Publications! Once again the legal publication deadlines surrounding the holidays are very tight. Below are deadlines and publication dates. The wisest course of action would be to email notices early so there is be no delay in publication.

Deadlines for legal notices publishing before and after Thanksgiving:

Deadlines for legal notices publishing before and after Christmas / New Year’s:

Notices to be published Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2015: The deadline is noon, Tuesday, November 17.

Notices to be published Christmas Eve, December 24, 1015: The deadline is end of day Tuesday, December 15, Questions: Contact Sheree Sandell 2015. at 303-566-4088 or legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com Notices to be published New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2015: The deadline Thanks for your consideration and business is end of day Tuesday, December 22.

Notices to be published December 3, 2015: The deadline is noon Tuesday, November 24.

Regular deadlines for December 10 and 17.

Colorado Community Media

Notices to be published January 7, 2016: The deadline is end of day Tuesday, December 29, 2015.

** Listed are deadlines for legal publications only.

Please check with Editorial, Retail Sales and Classifieds Sales for their individual deadlines.

Regular deadlines resume for January 14, 2016

Elbert * 1

12 Elbert County News

December 10, 2015

THANK YOU.

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