Elbert County News 1225 by Colorado Community Media

December 25, 2014 VOLU M E 1 1 9 | I S S UE 47 | 7 5 ¢

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District to renew search for principal Elizabeth High should have leader in place for 2015-16 By Rick Gustafson

Special to Colorado Community Media

Jeff Broome, a professor at Arapahoe Community College and a historian who has studied clashes between Native Americans and settlers in Colorado, points to the field where the Hungate murders took place in 1864. Photo by Chris Michlewicz

A history of peace, violence A look at how clashes erupted in 1800s between settlers, Native Americans By Chris Michlewicz

cmichlewicz @coloradocommunitymedia.com POSTAL ADDRESS

ELBERT COUNTY NEWS (USPS 171-100)

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P L EA SE R ECYC L E T H I S C OPY

Peaceful interactions were common between settlers and Native Americans living in present-day Douglas and Elbert counties before the bloody clashes in the 1860s put a stain on the history of that time period. Elizabeth Tallman, the wife of one the area’s first residents, John Tallman, wrote many articles in her later years recalling her experiences with Native Americans, including tribes led by Chief Washington and Chief Colorow. She was often left alone while her husband tended to the cattle, and the Utes would travel along the Tallman Gulch corridor (it’s actually Sulphur Gulch, but a geological surveyor screwed up a few decades ago and mislabeled it, says Sandy Whelchel, whose ancestors moved to the area from Ohio in the 1880s) and pass the cabin, which still stands near Ave Maria Catholic Church, roughly a quarter-mile from its original spot. One night, Tallman was closing the chicken coop for the night and walked through the door of her cabin to find several Native Americans sitting around her stove. They referred to her as a “heap Bueno squaw” and extended an invitation to her to attend a scalp dance that night, which she politely declined, Whelchel said. “She could hear them all night down there dancing,” Whelchel said, adding most tribes were “not terribly aggressive” with settlers. Another time, according to an article written by Tallman for The Colorado Magazine, Chief Washington wanted to barter for her son, who had red hair and was unique to them. He offered up to 20 Indian ponies, but Tallman continued to refuse. “He just couldn’t understand why she wouldn’t sell the kid,” Whelchel says with a laugh. Franklin Harn, who lived in Parker from 1933-39, recalled that his boss, a blacksmith who grew up near where Interstate 25 now meets Hampden Avenue, told him that Native Americans would peek inside the windows of his school as a boy. And when they were mourning the death of one of their own, he would “listen to the hooting and hollering all night,” Harn said. A story that has lived on through local his-

The Elizabeth School District announced Dec. 8 that it plans to resume its search for a new principal for Elizabeth High School this winter. According to an email from the district, Kin Shuman, director of human resources, expects to post the position for the 2015-16 school year by late January and plans to invite qualified candidates for interviews beginning as early as February. Interviews could extend into March. Ahead of the posting, Shuman intends to hold a series of meetings to hear opinions from students, staff and the community about the strengths, challenges and vision for the future of the school. Those same groups will have the opportunity to participate in a conversation with the candidates invited to interview. Shuman said that the district will not be using a search firm to recruit, and once the interviews are completed, the final decision rests with Superintendent Douglas Bissonette. Principal continues on Page 7

County extension office gains agent N.M. native fills position, which was vacant since 2009 By Rick Gustafson

Special to Colorado Community Media

There exists a headstone in the Parker Cemetery that reads: “Jonathan Tallman - Killed by Indians.” And a monument in Elbert County erected in 1939 by the Pioneer Women of Colorado pays tribute to the Hungate and Dietemann families, who were murdered by Native Americans. According to historians, it was a combination of cultural misunderstanding, broken treaties and outright aggression that led to notorious massacres in Colorado in the 1860s. Some of the most hotly debated murders occurred in the backyards, literally, of some property owners in Douglas and Elbert counties.

Kali Benson has been in her new job as Colorado State University’s Elbert County Extension Agent: Agriculture, Natural Resources, 4-H Youth Development, and Livestock for a little less than two months. If her job title sounds like a mouthful, try reading her to-do list. The Elbert County Extension Office’s ag agent position has been vacant since 2009, and Benson will be learning the nuances of her job on the fly. So far, she says she has not had a typical day since she started on Nov. 1. When she has not been in training to learn the details of the latest farm bill, she is spending time with the local conservation districts or escorting 4-H members to swine production seminars in Greeley. “The way I like to describe extension is that we were the Google, before there was Google,” Benson said. “If you have a question on something about agriculture, you can give us a call or come in to see us, and we can point you in the right direction.” Initially Benson will center much of her time on the 4-H program, mentoring, coaching and advising 4-H youths with their animal projects as she becomes more familiar her new community. The 4-H program “is a great leader-

Settlers continues on Page 7

Agent continues on Page 15

A memorial to those killed in clashes with Native Americans was erected in 1939 and still stands in Elbert County. Courtesy photo tory is one in which a Native American entered a one-room schoolhouse full of children, who fell silent. “He picked up a book and was looking at it upside down,” Whelchel said. “None of the kids giggled. He was trying to fit in, showing them he could read, too.” The class remained completely still and quiet and the man calmly left.

Conflicts arise

2 Elbert County News

December 25, 2014

Undocumented woman unbowed, unbroken When she was 11 and caring for four younger brothers and sisters in a rural Mexican town, Rocío Méndez looked into her heart for strength. When she was 15, hiding in a dumpster from immigration officers in Arizona after walking four days through desert and mountains, she looked into her heart for courage. Last week, when she completed the last exam needed for her college degree, Rocío, now 22, again looked into her heart. This time, she found happiness. “Education has always been my heart,” she said. “Education has always been my motivation. It has been my life.” The passion to learn has been the fire that propelled her through unimaginable adversity — drug-war violence, family tragedy, poverty and hunger — and that lifted her when hope threatened to slip from her grasp. “Her story is nothing less than a miracle,” her high school teacher Lisa Wille-Racine said. “She was relentless. … She is relentless. She didn’t ever lose sight of her dream.” But the dream isn’t finished: It won’t be until she can live and work here legally.

Hope amid tumult

That goal could become reality under a provision in President Obama’s proposed executive order, which includes revisions to the 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. DACA, as it is known, excluded Rocío because she arrived here in 2008, one year too late. The Nov. 20 proposal, however, expands the cutoff to 2010 and gives those children a three-year reprieve from deportation and the opportunity to apply for the needed permit to work. Republicans have threatened to block the president’s immigration action when Congress reconvenes in January. But amid the political tumult, Rocío — who has lobbied with fellow students for the stillunpassed DREAM Act in Washington, D.C. — and Wille-Racine stay optimistic. Regardless of how one feels about Obama, Wille-Racine said, “at least he sees the richness and the powerfulness and the extraordinariness of kids who don’t call their country home any more. These are

THE PRESIDENT’S ACTION On Nov. 20, President Obama announced an executive immigration order to create a program that would allow 4 million to 5 million immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally to apply to work legally — as long as they have no criminal record, have lived in the U.S. for at least five years and have children. They could also qualify to become eligible for Medicare and Social Security.

kids with no country who see the only way to rise above poverty is through education.” Petite with black hair just beyond her shoulders and a wide but rare smile, Rocío is one of 1.4 million undocumented students in the U.S. brought here by parents who entered illegally. Many, as in Rocío’s case, were searching for a better life. Each year, according to studies, about 65,000 undocumented students graduate from American high schools. But, impeded by financial hardship and lack of legal documentation, fewer than 10,000 enroll in college. When Rocío graduated — with honors — from a Castle Rock high school in 2010, Colorado did not offer in-state tuition to undocumented students. So, with WilleRacine’s help, she enrolled in New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, N.M., where she met criteria for in-state tuition offered also to students in her situation. Today, 18 states allow in-state tuition rates for undocumented students. Fourteen do so through legislation. The first were California and Texas in 2001; New Mexico did so in 2005; Colorado joined the group in 2013. Rocío, who has always wanted to be a teacher, remembers sitting in the office at Highlands’ School of Education: “The adviser … told me you can get an education, you can study to be a teacher. At the end, you’re not going to be eligible to teach because you have no legal status.” The words shattered Rocío. She turned to Wille-Racine, tears in her eyes. “There is nothing for me here,” she said. Wille-Racine reassured her there would be something. “Politics are changing quickly,” she said. “In four years, we can decide if it was worth it or not.”

The executive action also revises the 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals by allowing children brought here illegally before 2010 to stay — previously, the year was 2007. It also removes the 30-year-old upper age limit and extends the two-year relief from deportation to three years. Under DACA, anyone with deferred action can apply for a work permit. To qualify, children must: • Have come to the U.S. before their 16th birthday • Have continuously lived in the U.S. since Jan. 1, 2010 • Be in school, have graduated from high school, obtained a GED, or have been honorably discharged from the armed forces • Have not been convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanors The DREAM Act, which Congress still has not passed, is bipartisan legislation that would permit certain immigrant students who have grown up in the U.S. to apply for temporary legal status, and eventually permanent legal status, and become eligible for U.S. citizenship if they attend college or serve in the military. It would apply to most students who came here at age 15 or younger, have lived here continuously at least five years before the bill’s enactment and have no criminal record.

Accident changed all

To fully understand the price of that leap of faith, you have to go back to the beginning of Rocío’s story. The family lived in a town of fewer than 500 people about two hours southeast of Mexico City. Her father, who finished two years of elementary school, grew flowers to sell in the city. Her mother, who completed sixth grade, cared for the children. Tragedy struck when Rocío’s 18-monthold sister was critically injured in a car accident. To provide the best medical care, her father borrowed money and sold everything he could, including the land on which he grew his flowers, to send her to a private hospital. Her sister eventually recovered, but her father could no longer earn enough to support the family. “You have to have money to pay — if you don’t, that person is going to die,” Rocío said. After two months “we didn’t have any money. In Mexico, we couldn’t survive anymore.” Her parents crossed the border in 2001 and ended up in Castle Rock, where he

worked construction and landscaping and she cleaned hotels and businesses. The children stayed behind with grandparents, but Rocío — beginning at age 11 — essentially became the mom. She bought groceries, cooked, got them ready for school, talked to teachers about their progress. Most importantly, she said, she kept them safe, including from drug dealers who wanted payments for security. All the while, she excelled in her studies, winning top prizes in her classes. “I was so anxious to learn, to know stuff,” she said. “I was happy because going to school was going to make a difference.” But when it came time for high school, the family didn’t have the money to pay for the better private education in Mexico. And the culture discouraged girls from continuing school. That included her family. A teacher recommended Rocío study in the United States. It’s better over there, he said. Healey continues on Page 6

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Elbert County News 3

December 25, 2014

n State’s top court hears voucher arguments Justices could take up to nine months for decision By Jane Reuter

jreuter@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Colorado Supreme Court justices asked pointed questions about the potential impact of voucher programs on public schools, among other issues, during the long-awaited oral arguments surrounding the Douglas County School District’s choice scholarship program. The court could take up to nine months to issue its decision, though it has ruled in as little as a month on some cases. The ruling will apply to all other courts in the state. The chambers were packed Dec. 10, with requests for seats exceeding the room’s 195seat capacity. The demand prompted the court to livestream the proceedings. Among those with a front-row seat for the arguments were John Carson, who was president of the DCSD board when the program was implemented in 2011, former and board member Justin Williams, current board president Kevin Larsen and board e nts, member Rich Robbins. Justices hit both sides with questions enduring the hour-long session, which inhem cluded 30 minutes of argument each from out attorneys for DCSD and plaintiffs Taxpayers for Public Education. The parent-led Taxpayers for Public t Education initially filed the suit in 2011 against DCSD and the Colorado Departdies, ment of Education after the district implemented its pilot program designed for 500 students. It allowed the students’ parents oingto use state-provided per-pupil revenue ce.” toward tuition at private, mostly religiously ool, affiliated schools. A Denver judge ruled the y for program violated both the Colorado ConAndstitution and school finance act in August tinu- 2011, halting the program. The Colorado Court of Appeals reversed the lower court’s decision in February 2012. y in he Taxpayers for Public Education then appealed to the Supreme Court. On Dec. 10, Justice Gregory Hobbs asked if money used for the program could im-

Michael McCarthy, center, an attorney representing Taxpayers for Public Education, argues their case against the Douglas County School District’s voucher program during a packed Dec. 11 hearing at the Colorado Supreme Court. Pool photo/RJ Sangosti, Denver Post pact the Founding Fathers’ intent to provide a free, universal education. “What happens to our fine public school system?” James Lyons, attorney for the school district, said the funds parents would use in the program already are set aside for students. Under the pilot program, 75 percent of the funding could be used toward private tuition, with the remainder staying with the virtual charter school established by the district to administer the program. (Parents) “are simply being given the choice here to take state money, public money that is available to them, and use it as they see fit,” he said. Chief Justice Nancy Rice said Lyons’ argument suggests a paradigm shift has occurred in the view of public education. “Now what you’re saying is public education is almost a funding mechanism,” she

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said. Lyons said that shift follows changes in education and its delivery. “It was little red schoolhouses located right down the street in the same township,” he said. “That’s been gone for a long time. The founders never could have considered things like charter schools, online school, home school, the whole digital revolution.” A parent’s decision to use public funds toward private school tuition doesn’t affect the district’s responsibility “to provide a full and free public education for those who choose not to be in the program,” Lyons said. “And it doesn’t diminish by a nickel the school’s ability to do that.” The Court of Appeals ruled Taxpayers for Public Education lacked standing to bring the suit, noting it is the responsibility of the Colorado Department of Education, but Taxpayers’ attorney Matthew Douglas said

the state department was “a compromised enforcer.” “The administrative agency who’s supposed to stand at arm’s length and be the enforcer of the school finance act had already expressed an inclination to approve the program,” he said. “If the department of education is going to abdicate its responsibility, those regulations cannot be a basis on which to deny standing.” Lyons said the CDE wasn’t given time to raise any concerns about the program. “This program was enjoined in August,” he said, which also prevented the department from using any enforcement mechanisms. “Yes, they were consulting as this was being developed; that doesn’t make them complicit.” Attorney Michael Bindas, who represents the families of students who participated in the program, said public funding can’t be limited based on religion. “The equal protection clause prohibits government from making it more difficult for one class of citizens to seek aid from the government,” he said. “Government may not draw distinctions between religious and non-religious. When government chooses to provide this type of public benefit, it has to do so evenhandedly.” Douglas said the state’s guiding document is clear. “Parents are free to choose religious education for their children,” he said. “But under the plain language of the Colorado Constitution, public taxpayer money cannot fund that choice.” Because tuition was passed to private schools not by the district, but by parents who chose from among the qualifying schools, Lyons said the program is legal. “Parental choice breaks the link,” he said. Taxpayers for Public Education director Anne Kleinkopf declined to comment. The school district issued a brief emailed statement. “We look forward to the decision of the Colorado Supreme Court and remain confident that the program will be upheld.”

4 Elbert County News

December 25, 2014

To feds, pot business smells suspicious The handling of money is a conundrum for shops By Katie Kuntz

Rocky Mountain PBS I-News The federal government is stockpiling hundreds of “suspicious activity reports” that could provide federal agents with sufficient evidence to shut down any statelegalized marijuana business. While it may appear that federal authorities have taken a wait-and-see approach to marijuana legalization in the 23 states that now allow either medical or recreational use, these reports are poised like a blade over the budding industry should federal laws be enforced. This risk of federal prosecution has led some cannabis companies to literally launder their money. “You used to be able to just smell it,” said Jennifer Waller, vice president of the Colorado Bankers Association, speaking of the cash from marijuana shops. “But now they are using Febreze a lot, putting the money in dryers, a lot of different things to try to disguise the scent because marijuana has such a distinct odor.” And that distinct odor is considered a red flag by federal authorities who require that banks file a suspicious activity report for every transaction that might be associated with illegal activity, including selling marijuana, even for state licensed businesses. “It’s because of the illegal nature of it,” Waller said. “In banking, if you are accepting the funds from a marijuana company and you are aware of it … you can be charged with money laundering yourself.” Banks fear the repercussions of holding deposits related to marijuana, still a Schedule I illegal drug under federal law. That could mean prison time for individual tellers, fines for the bank, and the bank could even lose its federal deposit insurance, meaning it could be also be closed. If a marijuana store is charged with money laundering, it

Cash is collected at a Strainwise marijuana store in Denver on Nov. 17, 2014. Legal marijuana businesses are a cashheavy operation and many stores rely on armored car services like Blue Line for cash transportation and protection. Photo by Rocky Mountain PBS I-News could lose everything. “Even before a conviction, the feds could freeze your assets,” said Chris Myklebust, commissioner of the Colorado Division of Financial Services. “And if there is a money laundering conviction, the feds can seize the assets, too.” The federal government has already collected more than 1,100 reports that implicate different cannabis companies in financial crimes nationwide. “Just in a moment’s notice, the U.S. Justice Department could literally take down every single dispensary in Colorado, probably within about a day.” said Rob Corry, a Denver attorney and marijuana advocate. Corry has worked on several cases where federal agents have seized assets — cars, cash, bank accounts — though many of the records are sealed and it’s hard to gauge just how often this occurs. More often, banks simply shut down marijuana-related accounts. Between February and August 2014, banks filed more than 475 “Marijuana Termination” suspicious activity reports — indicating they

closed hundreds of accounts because of possible criminal activity. “I’ve lost my personal bank account, my brothers have lost their personal bank accounts,” said Sally Vander Veer, operator of Medicine Man dispensary in Denver. The dispensary also lost its account in August. She says that without a bank account, all Medicine Man employees are paid in cash. “I can’t protect them. They walk out of here with a pocket full of cash and, in essence, they become another target and a potential victim of not having banking in the marijuana industry,” Vander Veer said. The dilemma has resulted in private businesses like Blue Line Protection Group that employ former military or law enforcement officers equipped with handguns, bulletproof vests, tactical training and armored trucks to transport cash and product to undisclosed locations for safekeeping. “When we started, the clients we were picking up had a manager taking (cash) in a Honda Civic or some kind of Subaru, unarmed, no vests, no tactics, no skills,” said

Dominic Powelson, who works for Blue Line Protection Group. “People are gladly saying, ‘Yeah, just go, we will pay you some money to do it for us.’ ” State regulators in Colorado and Washington have also tried to ease access to banking. Mycklebust, the Colorado financial services commissioner, issued a charter to the first ever marijuana-focused credit union in November. The new credit union will not immediately have federal credit insurance, although it has applied. Mycklebust said the new credit union must also file suspicious activity reports. The so called “SARs” stem from the guidelines set forth by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, or FinCEN, a branch of the U.S. Treasury Department. The guidelines were meant to ease access to banks. “Banks are required by law to report when they think that a business is making money from something illegal, and marijuana is still federally illegal,” said Steve Hudak, spokesman for FinCEN. “We attempted to provide guidance that would help to get cash off the streets and some of the public danger that is associated with that, so we went about as far as we could.” But the guidelines didn’t actually legalize banking for marijuana businesses — only Congress can do that. And so far, Congressional leaders have been opposed. “(FinCEN’s) guidance is dangerously misleading,” wrote U.S. Sens. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., in a letter of reprimand to the agency. “Indeed, following the guidance may expose financial institutions to civil or criminal liability.” Still, some U.S. representatives from Colorado and other states have introduced legislation to federally legalize state-approved marijuana, or at least legalize the industry’s access to banking. But those bills have not advanced. As is, state-approved marijuana businesses operate solely as a matter of federal discretion. And that could change at any time. Colorado Community Media brings you this report in partnership with Rocky Mountain PBS I-News. Learn more at rmpbs.org/ news. Contact Katie Kuntz at katiekuntz@ rmpbs.org.

Elbert County News 5

December 25, 2014

The gift of a second chance Parker Adventist doc performs free surgeries for uninsured By Chris Michlewicz

cmichlewicz @coloradocommunitymedia.com Next summer, Andrea Cisneros is looking forward doing something Coloradans both love and dread: walking the hill up to Red Rocks Amphitheater. It can be a grueling climb for concert-goers, but she is nonetheless up for the challenge. It has been a long time since Cisneros has been able to conquer the steep grade. Her hip socket was crushed in a terrible car accident when she was 21. She had finished basic training for the U.S. Army and was celebrating her new job as a paratrooper and helicopter mechanic. She had been drinking before she struck a semi. That night changed the course of her life. Cisneros never set foot on the Army base, was discharged, and left to deal with the consequences of a debilitating injury that doctors thought would prevent her from having children. Ignoring her doctor’s orders to do physical therapy only made things worse and the pain became excruciating. Cisneros has spent recent years limping around. Running and swimming, two of her favorite activities, were no longer an option. Now, at the age of 48, Cisneros has received a new lease on life, thanks to the generosity of strangers. She was among three people selected to participate in Operation Walk USA, an annual event in which surgeons volunteer their services to perform operations on patients who don’t have health insurance. She underwent hip replacement surgery at Parker Adventist Hospital Dec. 1, a procedure that would normally cost around $40,000. As the mother of three was being prepped for surgery, the reality of the situation was still sinking in. Cisneros didn’t allow herself to believe it would happen until the morning of the operation. Even though she felt undeserving, she described her

Arvada resident Andrea Cisneros shares a laugh with pre-op nurse Carol Cooper before undergoing surgery for a hip joint-replacement at Parker Adventist Hospital. Photo by Chris Michlewicz

ABOUT OPWALK Through Operation Walk USA 2014, an estimated 120 patients across the country received free joint replacements from 85 volunteer orthopedic surgeons, Dec. 1-6.

gratitude for the gift, which came two days after her birthday. “It’s frustrating because it’s my own stupid fault that I’m in this position, so I don’t feel like I should have sympathy, much less this fabulous blessing that I got,” she said. She was especially thankful to Dr. Derek Johnson, the orthopedic surgeon who has

AREA CLUBS

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 http://www.elbertcountysheriff.com/posse.html, or contact Dave Peontek at 303-646-5456. THE ELIZABETH Food Bank, 381 S. Banner in Eliza-

beth (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.

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 firstcome, 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 registration is not required. Visit the Simla Branch of the Elbert County Library District at 504 Washington Avenue, call 719-5412573, or email farabe@elbertcountylibrary.org.

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 fourcounty region. Call Kay Campbell, Kiowa, at 719- 541-4275. You may also call the ECCOG office at 1-800-825-0208 to make reservations for any of the trips. You may also visit http://outbackexpress.tripod.com. To ensure that a seat is available, 24-hour advance reservations are appreciated. 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.

donated his time and expertise to OpWalk for the last three years. It was not only her urgent need for a hip replacement, but Cisneros’s selflessness that stuck out to Johnson. “She blamed herself for (the accident) and told us if there were other people that needed it, she didn’t want her hip replaced. She didn’t want to take the spot of someone else,” he said. “So it was not just a matter of helping her hip pain, but helping her resolve this one mistake she made 30 years ago.” Aside from walking up the hill at Red Rocks for the first time in ages, Cisneros is looking forward to chasing her two young grandchildren around, walking her dog

more than one block and taking a stroll on the beach in California. She’s also eager to “walk and not look like I’m 108 years old at 48,” she said. Her rehabilitation is expected to last a few months, and the Arvada resident has vowed to follow every instruction for recovery given by Johnson. She also has pledged to become a vocal advocate for OpWalk, a program she found online one day when she was in immense pain. Now the woman who says she was once afraid of doctors calls them “superheroes.” “Dr. Johnson is amazing. To do this for me— he doesn’t know me and he made me feel like I was his best friend from years ago,” Cisneros said.

Silent night, sleep filled night.

All is calm, all is right.

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. CYCLE CLUB meets at 9 a.m. Saturdays in the parking lot of Southeast Christian Church. Tour the streets of Parker, Elizabeth and Castle Rock. Call John at 720-842-5520. PARKER ARTISTS Guild presents free art classes for kids and teen on the second Saturday of each month at Hobby Lobby at Parker Road and Mainstreet. Lessons and Lemonade classes for ages 10-12 are at 9:30 or 11 a.m., and the Teen Art Studio for grades 7-9 are at 1 or 3 p.m. Reservations required by the Wednesday before class. Go to www.parkerartistsguild.com and click on Youth Programs. 20 students maximum. HILLTOP SOCIAL Club has been an active women’s club in the Parker area since 1921. We meet the second Thursday of each month at noon at the Hilltop Schoolhouse at Flintwood and Democrat Roads. The ladies have maintained the schoolhouse since 1954 for community use, and the preservation of the history of the Hilltop area. For more information please call Be at 303-841-4581, or Fran at 303-841-9655. PARKER SCOTTISH Country Dance meets from 7-9 p.m. Thursdays at Parker Mainstreet Center, 19650 E. Mainstreet. The cost is $4 per class. Call Sam Reynolds at 303-805-1446 or sam@SpinwardStars.com.

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6 Elbert County News

Healey Continued from Page 2

“Since that day,” she said, “I want to go to school. I want to go to school. I want to go to school … I didn’t know I was going to walk. I didn’t know it was so dangerous. I just knew I wanted to go to school.” Rocío’s parents had returned to Mexico in 2004 when her grandmother died. A year later, her dad went back to Castle Rock. And in February 2008, her mother decided to rejoin him and bring Rocío and her then-five younger siblings. They tried to get student visas to emigrate legally, Rocío said, but didn’t have enough money. So, with a guide and Rocío’s uncle, they crossed the border on foot. Rocío and the adults carried the heaviest of six bags, which held tuna, bread, beans and gallons of water — enough, they thought, for four days. They walked mostly at night and slept under bushes during daylight. They crossed deserts, mountains, highways and ranches. They skirted an airport. They ran out of water on the second day. By the third day, the two men gave up their food portions so the children could eat. On the fourth day, as the group walked along train tracks near a factory in Arizona, a man saw them and began talking on his phone. “Ya nos echaron la migra — they’ve called immigration,” her uncle yelled. “Scatter and run!” Her uncle covered Rocío’s mother, two sisters and a brother with sand in a nearby dry creek bed. Another brother climbed up a tree. Rocío jumped into a dumpster filled with trash. She heard dogs barking and police talking. She stayed there for hours, until her uncle came for her. “It was something I hope I never have to live again,” she said. That evening, they reached a hotel in a town called Guadalupe, south of Phoenix where her father — who in 2010 received a work permit — picked them up. He took them to Walmart to buy food and clothes.

December 25, 2014

“Oh, my God,” Rocío said, as she wandered through the store. “This is amazing.”

Strange new world

In Castle Rock, Rocío entered school in March as a sophomore — 14 credits transferred from her high school in Mexico. “The first day I was so scared, I didn’t talk to anyone,” she said. “The only thing I knew how to say was `Hi.’ I was happy to be able to continue my education. I was eating lunch and I told myself, `You have to work hard — this isn’t going to be easy.’” It wasn’t. Many days, the frustration of being unable to communicate in English, the struggle academically, the isolation socially, left her in tears. That’s how Wille-Racine met her, crying, huddled in a corner behind a teacher’s desk. “I saw those little eyes looking at me and I said, `Well, hello,’” Wille-Racine said. “That moment changed the rest of my life.” That moment threw Wille-Racine, a Spanish and English as a Second Language teacher and mother of 15-yearold twins, into an unfamiliar world she would come to know intimately — the limbo and uncharted territory of undocumented students. And Rocío’s determination to succeed in school, despite the unceasing obstacles, moved her deeply. “She was fierce,” Wille-Racine said. “So I decided to be fierce right along her side.” When it came time for college, the teacher and the student figured it out as they went: whom to call, where to go, what to do. On her end, Rocío scrambled to find ways to pay for the education she so desperately wanted. She worked two jobs during summers, including cleaning hotels. She borrowed money from friends, which she later repaid. She won a $6,000 scholarship. She cleaned and cooked in return for room and food. At times, she gave up food money for tuition money. Teachers and friends of Wille-Racine also helped by contributing money,

clothes, transportation and, sometimes, simply a helping hand. Whenever an obstacle appeared, Wille-Racine would take a deep breath and wait until, she said, God would work some magic. “I always felt responsible to make something happen,” Wille-Racine said. “She was just looking to me for all the answers, and half the time I didn’t have them.” Said Rocío: “Lisa, she always, always had hope.”

Blossoming in college

College changed everything for Rocío. In high school, she’d often felt alone, invisible. At Highlands, she realized there were many people like her — undocumented, fighting to attend college, working two or three jobs just to be able to go to school. “I found a family,” she said. That newfound community helped her gain confidence, to believe she could make a difference and give back to a society that had given her so much. She joined student organizations that worked with immigration issues at local, state and national levels. They trained administrators about immigration laws, provided legal help to students applying for deferred status, protested and lobbied for change, traveled to conferences to educate themselves about undocumented issues in other states. In November 2013, Rocío traveled to Washington, D.C., with a student organization to lobby for immigration reform. The group staged a mock Thanksgiving dinner in the early morning hours in front of House Speaker John Boehner’s house to show how the holiday would be sad for children separated from families because of deportation. Then students headed to the Capitol to talk to senators and protest for immigration change. “I’ve become an activist,” Rocío said. “I’ve become a fighter for my undocumented community. I’ve become a person unafraid …” The opportunities that college has provided her, Rocío said, solidified her willingness to step into the open despite

possible legal consequences. “I’m still insecure in this country,” she said. “They can deport me any time. But we have to make a difference. If we are afraid, nothing is going to happen and we will be the same — invisible people living here. If we the students don’t make the change, nobody is going to make it for us.” She is proud of what she’s accomplished, particularly that she’s set a path for others to follow. Two brothers, also undocumented, are also at Highlands. “I don’t know how to describe how I feel,” Rocío said. “I just feel special, lucky to go to college, to be the first person in my family to finish high school, to finish college. It makes me feel I should work even more.” Last spring, her sister Miriam, who graduates from high school in May, wrote this for her high school publication: “My sister, Rocío, is my hero, because when my parents had to come to the United States to work to be able to … buy what we needed, she was 15 years old. She took care of me, my sister and two brothers, and she had to go to school, too … When we moved here … a lot of people would tell her she wouldn’t go further in school because she didn’t understand English. But … she never gives up. Now, she is almost done with college.” On Dec. 12, Rocío received her degree in Spanish with a minor in Native American-Hispano studies. She would like to pursue a master’s in education in curriculum and instruction. She would like to teach. But she can’t — she doesn’t have a Social Security number or a work permit. So she waits. And hopes. And continues to look into her heart for the truth she has carried with her always: “Education is the only key to success.” Ann Macari Healey’s column about people, places and issues of everyday life appears every other week. Her column earned first place in the 2013 Colorado Press Association Better Newspaper contest. She can be reached at ahealey@coloradocommunitymedia.com or 303-5664110.

Castle Rock gets dialysis clinic Facility offers training for at-home treatments By Mike DiFerdinando

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mdiferdinando @coloradocommunitymedia.com A new Castle Rock clinic will provide in-patient and at-home dialysis treatment for those suffering from kidney failure. Liberty Dialysis Castle Rock, part of Fresenius Medical Care North America, has opened a new clinic at 4352 Trail Boss Drive. According to the clinic, more than 3,800 Colorado residents suffer from kidney failure and rely on some form of dialysis as a life-sustaining treatment option. “Basically we deal with outpatient dialysis. Generally, patients come here three times per week. The average treatment time is about four hours. We also offer the home therapy dialysis where we work with patients who do it themselves at home,” said Genna Hirsch, the registered nurse in charge of the clinic. “(At-home treatment) is a little bit less restrictive on their schedules. Here they’re stuck to coming every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6 a.m., for example, but at home there’s a little more leeway.” The clinic is small, serving fewer than 20 patients, with Hirsch and two others providing the majority of the care, though she said they are equipped to take care of up to 100 patients. “(Dialysis patients’) kidneys have shut down to the point where they no longer able to remove fluids and toxins from their bodies. You and i, our kidneys are basically working 24 hours a day to just keep our bodies healthy,” Hirsch said. “These guys, their bodies

Nurse Genna Hirsch adjusts a dialysis machine at the newly opened Liberty Dialysis Castle Rock. Photo by Mike DiFerdinando don’t do that anymore, so they’re doing in about four hours what our bodies do in a full day.” The clinic offers training in two types of at-home dialysis, pertaniel dialysis and home-hemo dialysis. Pertaniel dialysis can be done by oneself and at any time or place, making it one of the most flexible therapy options. Hirsch said she even had a patient who was a truck driver and did it in the cab of his semi. “Think of it as using the abdomen as a coffee filter,” she said. “They have a little catheter that comes out of their stomach and they connect to a solution that they then drain into their belly and then they disconnect. The solution hangs out in their belly for four to five hours and then they connect to a drain bag and drain it out. That solution pulls all of the toxins and fluids through the abdomen and

then it’s drained out.” Home-hemo dialysis is more like the treatment given at the clinic. “They have a machine that sits on a tabletop; it’s a real simplified version of what we use here basically,” Hirsch said. “They do have to have a trained partner, a husband or wife or child.” Home hemo must be done five to six days a week for two or two and a half hours. Training for Pertaniel takes about 10 days and training for home hemo is more complicated, taking about three to four weeks. “We try and sit down with them and ease whatever fears our patients have,” Hirsch said. “They’re going to have a lot of questions. Their families will have a lot of questions. Usually after a while you settle into a routine. It is a lifetime thing.”

Elbert County News 7

December 25, 2014

Settlers Continued from Page 1

Jeff Broome, a professor at Arapahoe Community College who has written extensively on those skirmishes, led a tour of the sites in August 2013, bringing along the ancestors of the area’s first settlers. They included Linda Vannostrand, the great-great granddaughter of Apollinaris Dietemann, who found his wife and son scalped and shot in present-day Elbert County in 1868. “I’m hoping to learn everything I can, what really happened,” said Vannostrand, who explained that the story has been passed on through her family. “To have that in your own family is amazing.” Dietemann remarried and Vannostrand descends from a child from that marriage. Although the woman who owns the property on which the Hungate massacre occurred on June 11, 1864, no longer allows people on the site, Broome stood on a dirt road in western Elbert County and pointed to the spot in an undistinguishable field. What transpired depends on whom you ask — former Colorado State Historian David Halaas, Ph.D, says there is a wealth of disinformation out there — but there is little doubt that the Hungate massacre ratcheted up the tension and was a factor in Gov. John Evans’ decision to order Gen. John Chivington to assemble the 1st Colorado Volunteers, which later took part in the Sand Creek massacre. It should be noted that John Tallman, the brother of Jonathan Tallman and husband of Elizabeth Tallman, served in that group. “John was one of the first to reach the scene of the Hungate massacre in 1864, and witnessed its horrors,” according to the Parker Area Historical Society. “When news of it spread, it inflamed the hearts and minds of the people throughout the area.” Newspaper accounts from the time say the bodies of the Hungates were displayed in downtown Denver. Broome believes that because rustling was common in those parts at the time, Hungate caught a

Principal Continued from Page 1

Rod Blunck, the former superintendent of the Elizabeth School District for three years and professor at the University of Colorado Denver’s School of Education

Clubs

Native American stealing a horse and shot him, causing the tribe to retaliate and burn the Hungate family from their home before scalping and killing Hungate, his wife and two daughters. Halaas, who has acted as a consultant for the Northern Cheyenne for two decades, said most stories are pure speculation and cast doubt on the suspected culprits, the Arapaho. “We don’t really know what set this off and we don’t know who did it,” Halaas said, adding that a series of treaties were violated by the settlers. Halaas says he is glad the woman who owns the Hungate site shut it down because “amateurs” were allowed to remove artifacts and were “ruining things.”

Seeking the full story

Meanwhile, Broome continues to dig into records, including American Indian Annuity Rolls at the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C., and witness accounts taken at the time. His extensive research has led him to the conclusions contained in his writing. Whelchel calls the theory “believable” because the Native Americans “didn’t have any concept of things belonging to people,” leading to conflicts. “It was very strange for them,” she says. “If they saw it and liked it, they took it. Everything was free.” The attacks left pioneers unnerved. One document uncovered by Sandy Whelchel says that classes were suspended at one local school because of fears for child safety, especially in the wake of retaliation for Sand Creek. Harn recalls an infamous story from Parker’s past that he heard directly from a man he knew as Uncle Billy Newlin, who later owned the Tallman cabin. In 1870, John Tallman’s brother, Jonathan, was killed by Native Americans while he and a friend were riding between the ranch in present-day Canterberry Crossing and Kiowa. The story is also documented in the historical society’s guide. “Jonathan Tallman was riding a mule he had just purchased and the friend was riding a horse,” the guide says. “When attacked by a roving band of Indians they made a run for it, but the mule was no match for the Indian ponies.”

Linda Vannostrand is a descendent of the Dietemann family, which was murdered by Native Americans in Elbert County in 1868. Photo by Chris Michlewicz

and Human Development, has been the acting principal at Elizabeth High School since the start of the current school year. Blunck agreed to step in temporarily last fall following the departure of Greg Wieman, who resigned at the end of the 2014 school year to accept a position as superintendent with the Eureka County School District in Nevada. Wieman had held the job as principal for five years.

“We need a leader who is willing to carry on the school’s traditions and care about the employees and the kids who walk through those doors every day,” Blunck said when asked what qualities his successor might have. Blunck, whose leave of absence from CU-Denver is temporary, said that he has no plans to apply for the position. “I serve at the pleasure of the superin-

parkerwritersgroup.org or contact parkerwritersgroup@gmail.com for event details.

Continued from Page 5

PARKER WRITERS Group memberships and monthly work-

shops are free and open to anyone interested in writing. Our members range from new writers to internationally published authors. The group meets from 2-4 p.m. the second Sunday of each month at the Parker Library, 10851 S. Crossroads Drive, Parker. Go to www.

THE SOUTH East Beekeeping Club. This Beekeeping Club meets the first Wednesday of every month at the North Pinery Firehouse, Parker, at 6:30-8:30 p.m. We welcome all levels of beekeeping from no-bees to wanna-bees to tons of bees. Our meeting time is spent solving beekeeping challenges, networking and refreshments. There is no fee for this meeting and a lending library is available. The South East Beekeeping Club was formerly called the High Prairie Bee Club. For more information, call Louise at 303 840 7184.

ELIZABETH

tendent,” Blunck said. “When I’m no longer needed, I will go back to that position (at CU).” The district had initially posted the position late in the summer, and according to Blunck the district had some very talented candidates apply, but decided to delay hiring for the position until after the beginning of the academic year and the “hiring season” had started.

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8-Opinion

8 Elbert County News

Y O U R S

OPINION

December 25, 2014

O U R S

A publication of

9137 Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210 Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-566-4100 Fax: 303-566-4098 On the Web: ElbertCountyNews.net Get Social with us

GERARD HEALEY President and Publisher CHRIS ROTAR Editor VIC VELA State Desk and Legislative Editor THERESE DOMBROWSKI Marketing Consultant ERIN ADDENBROOKE Major Accounts and Classified Manager

All the fun of a cage, plus seat-kicking My neighbor flies somewhere just about every week. He even has an airport car. It looks a little like the gutted-out rental in “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.” “It gets us where we want to go.” If you are low on oil and know how to extract it from asphalt, there’s some waiting for you across the street. I call the car “Valdez.” I don’t fly anywhere. As I have said before, I am sedentary. I miss out. I would love to see Paris, France. Or even Paris, Texas. The peat bogs of Laphroaig. The Lesser Antilles. The Grampian hills. I would settle for Pismo Beach. I remember smoking and non-smoking sections. If one person on an airplane smoked, we all smoked. Shooters were either free or a dollar. Flight attendants were called “stewardesses” or “stews,” and some of them looked like go-go dancers. Then things changed. It’s an obstacle course just to board a plane, and once I do I am in greater proximity with more disconcerting people for an extended period than at any other time in my life. Expedia released its annual list of “onboard etiquette violators.” I will let you think about it before I share it with you. I will give you mine first. Number one on my list of violators is simply what Sartre referred to as “other people.” I’d fly all by myself on a private jet if I

could. No flight attendants. No pre-flight directives. No pilot pointing out the Monongahela. I might allow a harpist. OK, Expedia, here we go: Seat kickers have moved into the top spot, bumping “inattentive parents” into second place. Seat kickers will kick you if your seat is reclined, and if you two go at it, the flight might be diverted, and you could be led off by marshals. Small talkers. It’s easier to ixnay small talkers these days than it used to be. Now you can just listen — or pretend to listen — to your headphones instead. (You youngsters don’t remember the days before there were headphones.) There was a time when you might be a captive, next to a shower ring representative, who just made a big sale in Wichita. I have never been very gracious. If someone tried to bend my ear, I tried to bend their ear right back. I would start to sing.

“There’s a bright golden haze on the meadow.” If they persisted, I would add, “The corn is as high as an elephant’s eye.” That was usually all it took. If you smell like a bowl of cologne, well, you make the list of violators. I sat next to a woman who had been embalmed the day before. Drinkers who drink and drink make the list. You hear about some of them. One had to be taped down by nearby passengers. A picture showed him looking like a duct tape mummy, with tape over his mouth. His eyes were wild, and so was his hair. Sitting in coach isn’t much fun. It’s a little inhumane, unless you are the size of a ferret, but who is? And perhaps the worst of all is to be as ornery as I am, as tall as I am, and as ornery as I am — or have I already mentioned that? — and to be seated between two complete strangers. The Middle Seat. It’s torture. I mean it. I sat next to a woman who boarded with a greasy, brown bag of fried chicken parts. I’m telling you. There are other options, but flying is still worth it. If I were to board a Greyhound in Denver tonight at 7:15 p.m., I would arrive in New York City the day after tomorrow at 4:20 p.m. Craig Marshall Smith is an artist, educator and Highlands Ranch resident. He can be reached at craigmarshallsmith@comcast.net.

Designated drivers keep holidays safe It seems that we can find a top 10 list or the top 10 reasons to do just about anything these days. I mean, everything from places to live, cars to purchase, gadgets to own, rationale to drink coffee or tea, favorite vacation spots, and so many more. If you have ever caught David Letterman’s show, there was a Top 10 list every night, usually designed to make a satirical point. Now, with the holidays upon us, I thought I would encourage us all to drink responsibly, and if we are going to take advantage of the festivities and celebrate with our favorite spirits, to not just consider having a designated driver, but to make the commitment and ensure that we have a designated driver or safe ride home whether it is a taxi, bus, or chauffeured ride of some kind. Maybe it’s our turn to be the DD, the designated driver, or maybe it’s someone else’s turn, but either way, let’s not just celebrate the season, let’s celebrate the fact that we are driving safely and soberly and celebrate all of the DDs out there, especially during this time of year. So here it goes, the Top 10 list — Reasons to Celebrate Having a Designated Driver: 10. Bragging rights (That’s right, I have a

designated driver, don’t you?) 9. Convenience of a ride anywhere we need to go (Isn’t it really all about convenience?) 8. Others will see us as really, really smart (Women and men both love the DDs) 7. Eliminate the worry about how we will get home (Or waking up in some very strange place) 6. Freedom to celebrate as we would like to this year (Jail time is not freedom) 5. Respect from our peers (R.E.S.P.E.C.T. equals coolness!) 4. Avoidance of expensive tickets, legal fees, and fines (If you can’t pay the fine. don’t do the crime) 3. Avoidance of jail time (Freedom is not

jail time) 2. We live to celebrate another day (Party on!) … and the number-one reason is … 1. Safety for ourselves and everyone else on the road (Every day is a good day, just try missing one) If we really take a look at the list above, wouldn’t you agree that we should do everything we can to celebrate and appreciate our DDs? I am not sure about you, but I have the utmost respect for the person who volunteers to be the safety net and make sure that their family and friends arrive home safely. I also have immense respect for the people who are smart enough to plan in advance to have a designated driver in their group when they plan on partying. Parties happen, partying takes place, overindulging is a given in some cases as we celebrate during the holiday season or really at any time of year. And I am amazed and truly appreciative of the people who recognize that they have had too much and leave their car in the parking lot or at a friend’s house, call a taxi or arrange another ride, and Norton continues on Page 9

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager SCOTT ANDREWS Production Manager SHARI MARTINEZ Circulation Manager

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Columnists and Guest Commentaries The Elbert County 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 County 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

WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER Our team of professional reporters, photographers and editors are out in the community to bring you the news each week, but we can’t do it alone. Send your news tips, your own photographs, event information, letters, commentaries... If it happens, it’s news to us. Please share by contacting us at news@coloradocommunitymedia.com, and we will take it from there. After all, the News is your paper.

Elbert County News 9

December 25, 2014

Leaders get experience of lifetime Coalition had ‘robust business agenda’ in nation’s capital By Christy Steadman

csteadman @coloradocommunitymedia.com It was a bustling three days in the nation’s capital — people were protesting the Keystone XL pipeline project and the World Health Organization was having a function on Ebola. Amid it all was a group of south metro Denver’s elected officials, educators and two graduate students, chamber of commerce members and business leaders. The trip to Washington, D.C., was very successful, said Jeff Wasden, president of the Colorado Business Roundtable, because there was something for everybody. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who had never gone before,” he said, “and the veterans to D.C. got to experience something new.” The 24 attendees visited Washington for three days Nov. 18-20. The main purposes included building relationships, increasing visibility locally and nationally, gaining knowledge and providing input to national leaders. “An understanding of the issues critical to our representatives at the federal level, and how those can end up affecting us locally, is key,” said Josh Martin, Parker mayor pro tem. The group had a full itinerary with a “very robust business agenda,” Wasden said, which included meetings with the National Business Roundtable, the White House Business Council and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The trip was also significant because the local participants had opportunities to network with each other, said Wasden, a Highlands Ranch resident. “All the lunches and dinners are my favorite part,” said Katia de Orbegoso, president of the Roxborough Business Association. “The unstructured environment was the perfect time to get to know each other, share ideas and comment on the different briefings.” And there was some time for fun, Wasden said. The group went bowling at the Harry S. Truman Bowling Alley, and they enjoyed an evening monument tour. Being able to tour the monuments in the evening, away from the rest of the tourists and people tending to business matters at the capital, provides a person with a different feel of their significances, Wasden said. “It becomes more reverent and reflective,” he said. “You can reflect in solitude on some of the great leaders.” One highlight of the trip was a meeting with U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, said David Schlatter, corporate real estate adviser, of Centennial. Bennet is in favor of the Keystone XL pipeline project — an $8 billion Canada-to-Texas oil pipeline — and there were protesters demonstrating their disagreement. A Senate vote

A group photo of attendees on the Washington, D.C., trip Nov. 18-20. Pictured are 21 of the 24 attendees who consisted of South Metro Denver’s elected officials, educators and two graduate students, chamber of commerce members and business leaders. Courtesy photos was occurring that day, and Schlatter said, “We were there at the moment of truth.” “It went from a five-minute meeting to a 40-minute intimate conversation with him,” Wasden said. “That really provided some of the wow-factor to the trip.” In addition to their time with Bennet, the group was able to meet with Congressmen Ken Buck of Colorado and Ted Yoho of Florida, and Ali Noorani, executive director of the National Immigration Forum. “We got to engage with people in D.C. and meet the people that make a difference,” said Englewood-based Steve Roper, president and CEO of Roper Insurance. “Get our voice heard on a national level.” Overall, the trip was “a great opportunity to learn first-hand about what’s going on in Washington,” said Natalie Harden, director of public policy and economic development for the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce. “And we were demonstrating that we care enough to be willing to physically meet with them,” she added. “They appreciate us making that effort.” It’s important for people to be engaged, Roper said. The people in Washington are also “normal people trying to do the best job they can,” and getting involved can make a difference, he added, because they do listen. “It’s hard to say if we did move the needle at all,” Roper said, “but we hope that it does.”

A group picture of the South Metro Denver group outside of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The goal of the chamber is to create jobs and workforce stability, hence the permanent sign, said Jeff Wasden, President of the Colorado Business Roundtable.

To place an Obituary for Your Loved One… Private The South Metro Denver group receives a briefing at the National Business Roundtable in Washington, D.C. Topics discussed at this meeting included election results and information and technology.

Norton Continued from Page 8

come back in the next day or two to pick up their car. What a great decision and definitely one worth celebrating as we celebrate. According to CDOT there have already been 435 traffic related fatalities here in Colorado in 2014, with 150 of those fatal accidents involving alcohol. As the years winds down, let’s not invite any more unwanted tragedy

into our lives and into our communities. Instead, let’s celebrate, appreciate, and love on our designated drivers. How about you? Are you up for some partying this holiday season? And if so, do you have your DD plan in place? I would love to hear all about your designated driver plans at gotonorton@gmail.com, and when we all take the time to make our roads safer, it really will be a better than good holiday season. 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.

303-566-4100 Obituaries@ColoradoCommunityMedia.com

Funeral Homes Visit: www.memoriams.com

10-Life

10 Elbert County News

S O U T H

LIFE

December 25, 2014

M E T R O

WARNING:

HIGH CUTENESS FACTOR

Complete with teddy bear cargo, a miniature horse totes a tiny carriage down Mainstreet. Families lined the streets of downtown Parker to get an up-close view of the entries in the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual Christmas Carriage Parade Dec. 13. Jingling bells dangled from the harnesses of horses big and small. Some equines even donned Santa hats as a prelude to Saint Nickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s end-of-the-parade appearance.

PHOTOS BY CHRIS MICHLEWICZ An entry in the Parker Christmas Carriage Parade makes its way down Mainstreet.

An ice sculptor sprays snow as families look on.

Sam High, 4, of Parker, feeds a hungry goat at a petting zoo at the parade.

Elbert County News 11

December 25, 2014

Review: ‘Exodus’ plagued by casting, script issues By Jake Coyle

Associated Press To what do we owe the second coming of the biblical epic? A genre that was once as moldy as stale communion wafers has been reborn this year, first with Darren Aronofsky’s “Noah’’ and now with Ridley Scott’s “Exodus: Gods & Kings.” The resurrection is partly to capitalize on the faithbased moviegoing audience and partly because the Bible offers stories suited to this blockbuster era, offering both spectacle and name-brand familiarity. More than 50 years after “The Ten Commandments,” sandals are back in style. We can only hope the trend will culminate in a seemingly ordained bit of casting: Someone has got to make a Jesus film with Jared Leto. But big-tent Old Testament tales are no easy sell in times marked by both religious discord and secular disbelief. “Noah” was interesting because it saw the arc-builder as hero of environmentalism, a protector of both morality and animals. The 3-D “Exodus” also refashions Moses (Christian Bale) for modern times, giving us an elite, action-film combatant who’s less a conduit for God than a strongminded individual whose beliefs mostly jibe with the deity who secretly appears to him. (God is seen here as an impatient child, played by the 11-year-old Isaac Andrews.) “Exodus” begins promisingly, with a bald John Turturro in makeup.

As the Egyptian pharaoh Seti, the father of Ramses ( Joel Edgerton) and king to Moses’ prince, Turturro (and the brilliant Ben Mendelsohn’s louche viceroy) gives the film a touch of camp, a necessary ingredient to any successful biblical epic. Scott ought to have kept it up. However, the director of “Gladiator” and “Blade Runner” isn’t known for his lightness of touch, but rather a monochrome masculinity. His “Exodus” is action-heavy and more interested in the sheer computer-generated scale of the airy Egyptian palaces, the grotesque visitation of plagues (from the bloody Nile to the locust swarms) and the mass movements of the Hebrews. Yet after Seti’s death and Ramses’ ascendance to the throne, “Exodus” seems to lessen in scope, turning into a mano-a-mano drama between the stepbrothers Ramses and Moses, who’s exiled after the discovery of his Hebrew birth. For an epic, there are, at best, only two clearly seen characters in “Exodus,” with supporting players like Ben Kingsley (as a Hebrew elder), Sigourney Weaver (as Seti’s wife) and Aaron Paul (as a Hebrew slave) all but inconsequential. Let our people go? The leads, you may have noticed, are uniformly white, which has spawned a good deal of deserved controversy not abetted by Scott’s defense that his stars were necessary for financing. The skin color of the ancient Egyptians, it should be noted, isn’t known certainly, and historical accuracy is never much a consideration to biblical epics. But that “Exodus” chose to ignore this issue of representation

THE LOWDOWN “Exodus: Gods & Men,” a 20th Century Fox release, is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for “violence including battle sequences and intense images.” Running time: 142 minutes. Two stars out of four. — which has a long dubious history in Hollywood — speaks to the film’s general lack of curiosity. It’s after spectacle, not questions. “Exodus’’ — written by the team of Adam Cooper, Bill Collage, Jeffrey Caine and Steven Zaillian — does indeed supply the big scenes. Slowly accepting his destiny and his Hebrew heritage, a bearded Moses rallies the Israelites and leads them to the climactic moment at the Red Sea (which isn’t as sumptuously rendered as you’d expect). Throughout, Edgerton’s Ramses (who in the film’s best image, wraps a python around himself ) is generally befuddled by the happenings. Bale’s Moses is a reluctant, weary prophet. He may be the only actor who would barely bat an eye in scenes with the Almighty. Burning bushes don’t impress this Batman. The most emotional moment of the film comes after it ends. Before the credits roll, Scott dedicates the film to his late brother, Tony Scott. It adds a tender dimension to the brotherly psychodrama of “Exodus.” But as a self-proclaimed agnostic, Scott would be better to leave Moses to a believer.

WHAT'S HAPPENING NEAR YOU? Want to know what news is happening in your area and the areas around you? Visit our website at ColoradoCommunityMedia.com.

Mayor Tisdale to Head up Economic Holiday Hours South Metro Denver Chamber will be Development at South Metro Denver Chamber The CLOSED ment. “I’ve been called Doug Tisdale, mayor of a one-man chamber of Cherry Hills Village and commerce throughout my a respected attorney, has career in government, so assumed a new role: ExI thought I should finally ecutive Vice President for make it formal,” Tisdale Economic Development at quipped. the South Metro Denver Tisdale, in tandem Chamber. The newly-crewith Chamber CEO Bob ated position is intended Golden and EDG Chair to lead the Chamber in its Norm Stucker, will work vision to be an effective with regional, national and partner in the continuing international groups and development of the Denver companies in promoting Metro area as a competiMayor Doug Tinsdale new and expanded opportunities within tive, world-class region. the South Metro Denver area. “Business Tisdale, who holds leadership positions in the Denver Regional Council of retention, expansion and attraction has Governments, the Metro Mayors Caucus always been part of the Chamber’s focus, and Colorado Municipal League, is well- but we want to reinvigorate those acknown as a champion of regionalism tivities now, and to add an international and collaborative economic developdimension as well,” Tisdale continued.

“We see Doug as an experienced and enthusiastic agent for positive and collaborative change in the Denver region, who can help build regional coalitions for growth and development,” said EDG Chair Tucker. Tisdale, a graduate of The University of Michigan Law School, was a long-time partner at Brownstein Hyatt & Farber before joining the international law firms of Popham Haik and then Baker & Hostetler. For the past dozen years he has represented a select group of international clients through Tisdale & Associates LLC, along with serving on the Cherry Hills City Council for two terms and serving as Mayor for another term. For more information contact: Douglas M. Tisdale, 303.589.0758 DTisdale@ bestchamber.com or Hillary Klemme at HKlemme@bestchamber.com

December 24th, 25th, 26th and December 31st January 1st and January 2nd Located at 2154 E. Commons Avenue, Suite 342 For more information about South Metro Denver Chamber events visit our website www. bestchamber.com or call 303-795-0142

New Hires at South Metro Denver Chamber Jeff Brandon – Business Development Manager Jeff brings Commercial Real Estate broker and Business Development with 17 year of experience in client relationships and all aspects of deal-making. Direct experience with real estate, sales, finance, managing Jeff Brandon

Hillary Klemme

multiple projects, consulting and determining customer needs and developing strategies in order to provide a favorable customer experience. It is Jeff ’s interest to monitor customer needs and customize approaches to

better serve clients. Jeff graduated with a BS in Marketing from Auburn University. Contact Jeff at JBrandon@bestchamber.com

Hillary Klemme – Marketing and Events Manager Prior to joining South Metro Denver Chamber, Hillary served as the Director of the Madden Museum of Art for the past five years, where she was responsible for museum marketing, planning and managing special events/exhibits and all museum operations. Her previous experience includes working for Representative Frank McNulty as his Legislative Aide, working with the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce in their Mar-

keting and Event Department and serving as Castle Rock ArtFest’s Jury Chair for the past four years. She possesses a strong ability to bring consensus in order to achieve objectives by relying on a solid background in management, event planning and cultural community involvement. She brings relationships within the commercial/arts communities from community leaders and officials and a proven track record of

success managing multiple priorities in fast-paced environments that make her a strong contributor to South Metro Denver Chamber’s success. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art, minor in Marketing from William Woods University, and a Master’s degree in Museum Studies from Regis University. Contact Hillary at HKlemme@ bestchamber.com

12 Elbert County News

December 25, 2014

LEFT: “Bottle Tops” by William Matthews, 2005. Watercolor on paper. ABOVE: “Hopalong Henry” by William Matthews, watercolor on paper 2013. Courtesy photos

West highlighted in museum exhibit Matthews has long career as watercolor painter By Sonya Ellingboe

sellingboe @coloradocommunitymedia.com Working cowboys, ranches, rural architecture and the landscape are William Matthews’ subjects. His work is featured in connection with the National Western Stock Show in the Ninth Annual Petrie Institute of Western American Art Symposium on January 7, when a group of distinguished speakers will take a look at “Western Character: Expressions of Identity and Place in Portraiture.” (Registration required.)

Colorado-based Matthews is known for his paintings of contemporary cowboys — versus depictions of the historic American West. But he is not a cowboy himself. He says he’s a “trespasser,” viewing their work from the outside, although through the four decades he’s been painting, he has formed close friendships. “William Matthews: Trespassing” includes 27 works from Matthews’ early career until today. He was born in New York City in 1949 and grew up in the Bay Area. He said his mother was an oil painter. “She took me to a museum show when I was a young boy. I saw the watercolors of Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent and Andrew Wyeth,” and he decided he wanted to learn to do that. Watercolor has been his medium of choice since.

His professional career began in Los Angeles, according to his website, designing album covers for Warner Brothers and Capitol Records. He lived in Europe from 1975 to 1980, then returned to Colorado and ran a graphic design studio, dedicating himself to full-time painting in 1990. Two monographs have been published about his work: “Cowboys and Images: the Watercolors of William Matthews” (1994) and “William Matthews: Working the West.” His work is widely exhibited, including the collections of the Gilcrease Museum, Tulsa; Joslyn Museum, Omaha; Autry National Center, Museum of the American West, Los Angeles; Buffalo Bill Historical Center and Museum, Cody; and many more. The DAM will screen a new feature-length documentary on Matthews: “William Mat-

crossword • sudoku

GALLERY OF GAMES & weekly horoscope

IF YOU GO The Denver Art Museum is on 13th Avenue between Broadway and Bannock Street downtown. The parking garage is entered from 12th Avenue, just west of Broadway. The Matthews exhibit is in the Gates Family Gallery on Level 2 of the Hamilton Building and is included in the price of admission. denverartmuseum.org, 720-865-5000.

thews: Drawn to Paint,” from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 23. It follows Matthews as he prepares for his solo exhibition at the DAM, revisits some of his favorite subjects and reflects on the world of Western art. Tickets cost $10 for members and $13 for non-members and can be purchased on the DAM website, denverartmuseum.org.

SALOME’S STARS FOR THE WEEK OF DEC 22, 2014

ARIES (Mar 21 to Apr 19) Your love of the holidays creates a special bond between you and the people in your life. Use this as a way of building stronger relationships that will carry over well beyond this time. TAURUS (Apr 20 to May 20) A new approach could go a long way toward resolving a painful estrangement, especially at this holiday time. And since your aspects favor friendship this week, why not go ahead and try it? GEMINI (May 21 to Jun 20) Your positives continue to dominate, and any negative factors that squeeze in can be dealt with easily. The secret is to tackle them at once and not allow them to benefit by your neglect.

crossword • sudoku & weekly horoscope

GALLERY OF GAMES

CANCER (Jun 21 to Jul 22) Good news: A colleague’s remarks could help you move toward ultimately resolving that persistent workplace situation. Meanwhile, enjoy the holidays with loved ones. LEO (Jul 23 to Aug 22) No one reflects the bright holiday more than all you Leos and Leonas who love the shimmer and glimmer of the season. P.S.: There just might be a very special something from Santa. VIRGO (Aug 23 to Sept 22) Celebrate the holidays by being more receptive to new experiences. Overriding the Virgo reluctance to try new things could be the best gift you’ve given yourself in a long while. LIBRA (Sept 23 to Oct 22) Good news about a loved one makes the holidays even more festive. Expect some unexpected gifts, so be prepared with a few nicely wrapped packages of goodies to offer in return. SCORPIO (Oct 23 to Nov 21) The holiday season provides an opportunity to meet new people, some of whom you might even consider “worthy” enough to join the Scorpio’s select group of friends. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 to Dec 21) You always bring your own wonderful sparkle and light to the holidays, and don’t be surprised if this year someone special reaches out to respond to your warmth in kind. CAPRICORN (Dec 22 to Jan 19) Togetherness is the dominant theme for the Goat’s holiday celebrations this year. That means reaching out to bring everyone you care for into your very own special circle of light. AQUARIUS (Jan 20 to Feb 18) A reminder of a very special moment from the past makes the holidays more memorable for the romantic Aquarian. New friendships hold the promise of a romantic future as well. PISCES (Feb 19 to Mar 20) Getting into the swim of things for all you party-loving Pisceans is easy enough this holiday season. And, of course, you can expect to impress people wherever you go. BORN THIS WEEK: Your dedication brings you the success you strive for, and your generosity impels you to reach out and help others on their way up. © 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.

13-Calendar

December 25, 2014

SPORTS

Elbert County News 13

Cardinal wrestlers win invitational Victory over 15 other teams boosts young grapplers By Scott Stocker

Special to Colorado Community Media The hopes are high for an exciting season for the Elizabeth wrestlers — a team that was hit fairly hard by graduation. Hopes and aspirations grew even higher on Dec. 13 as Elizabeth, coached by Garry Martin, came through to win the Denver North Invitational against 15 other teams from four classifications. “We graduated a lot last year, but have good kids up from the JV team,” Martin said. “They have to make the transfer up to varsity and get going. We lost to LewisPalmer last week and we just chilled. We have to get back to basics. It’s tough, but I think we’re going to get things together. We are young.” Leading the way for Elizabeth this season will be the senior trio of 152-pound Rob Leonard and Kyle Prario at 170, who are team captains, and Ryan Shambling, 138. It’s certainly important to the Cardinals that they take their wrestling leadership seriously. “Rob is a fine leader for the younger guys,” said Martin. “He’s helping them to get better and encourage them.

He was a state qualifier last year and has high hopes of moving up. Kyle was a state qualifier last season and he works hard in the practice room and he pushes his teammates. He is just like having another coach in the room and the kids are looking up to him.” Shambling doesn’t have a load of varsity experience, as he moved up from the JV, where he was a leader. Success rates high on the list of this trio and their teammates. “I like to think how we are going to improve,” Leonard said. “We are young, but I think we are gaining in our experience. Our key is to wrestle hard in all our meets and to wrestle smart. I’ve always felt that I can help lead this team and I’m excited to where we can take our team.” “We’ve got a young team overall, but some of guys have a lot of potential,” said Prario. “Our key is to work hard in practice. I’m sure happy with who we have on the team. I just hope to go downtown to state this year and we are working on the positive side.” Shambling has the lesser experience of the two state qualifiers, but he’s looking for an exciting season on his part, too. “This is a solid team and I think we can make it far this season,” Shambling said. “We work hard in practice and we are getting our conditioning up. Our key is to be strong on the mats. Rob and I have been wrestling together since eighth grade. We’re looking forward to putting together a fine and successful season.”

While youth is apparent for Elizabeth this season, the Cardinals have been able to put the first few weeks of the season in a fine perspective. Adding to the depth this season for Elizabeth is Josh Hernandez, at 113 pounds, who transferred last year from New Mexico, and first-year grappler Matt Rutkowski, at 160. “We feel that Josh has a lot of potential to excel this season,” Martin said. “He can surprise a lot of people. Matt never wrestled before, but he is certainly learning fast and works hard in practice. He’s just getting better and having fun.” Good things are expected from Chase Turner (182), Anthony Goetz (126), Riley Davis (132), Trenton Davis (145) and Wes Boone (220). “Chase wrestled at 195 last season, but dropped to 182 this time around,” said Martin. “It’s a move we feel will be very beneficial this year. Anthony is also up from the junior varsity and he’s hoping to have a good season, as we all are. “Riley has a lot of drive to do the right things for us,” the coach continued. “The potential is certainly there. Trenton has a lot of potential and we’re looking for good things. Wes is also starting to realize that he can do it as well.” After the victory in the Denver North tournament, it appears that Elizabeth is a wrestling team that can get the job done.

Undrafted Harris now paid like elite cornerback Bronco making quarterbacks pay in breakout year By Pat Graham Associated Press

The photo emblazoned on the front of Chris Harris Jr.’s navy sweat shirt was a tribute to his favorite Denver Broncos cornerback: himself, of course. And the “No fly zone” caption underneath the image was fitting, too, since his side of the field has certainly become restricted air space, with quarterbacks shying away from him. Still, Harris’ cover skills fly under the radar, hardly mentioned in the same breath as other elite defensive backs around the league. But he certainly got paid like one in mid-December when the Broncos rewarded him with a five-year contract extension worth $42.5 million. That’s actually a hometown discount for an organization that took a chance on the undrafted college free agent out of Kansas in 2011. Had Harris hit free agency in the offseason, he would’ve earned more. Just ask him. “I definitely could have gotten more off the open market,’’ laughed the 25-year-old Harris, who had his wife and infant daughter in the audience Dec. 15 at a news conference to announce his extension. “I know that, we all know that, but it’s not all about money at the end of the day. It’s about being happy, and I’m satisfied.” Well, satisfied everywhere but on the field, anyway. Because he plays with an attitude after going undrafted, which he thinks is the root cause as to why he doesn’t receive as much recognition as, say, a Richard Sherman or a Darrelle Revis or even his teammate, in Denver and at Kansas, Aqib Talib. This could be the season where Harris gains more notoriety, though, possibly make his first Pro Bowl team. He’s having that kind of year for the AFC West champion Broncos, with three interceptions and a team-leading 15 passes defended in limited chances through the first 14 games. “I always thought once you get your contract, I think that’s when the accolades and all that stuff comes,” said Harris, the protege of recently retired and future Hall of Famer Champ Bailey. “But I think people are still going to see me as an underrated player just because of my size and the way I came into the league. “That’s just something where I know my whole career I’m going to have to deal with that.” Broncos boss John Elway certainly saw something in him. And after only a handful of practices, too. “He stood out and I said, `We have something here,’ Elway recounted. “Since he’s been here, he’s shown what he can do.” Especially last season, when he turned in a standout campaign before tearing his left ACL in the Broncos’ divisional playoff against the Chargers. He watched the Super Bowl from the sideline and then underwent surgery. He was back in less than seven months. Hasn’t missed

a step, either. “Chris just has something in his head and his heart. He don’t like to lose,” Talib said. “He’s one of the most competitive guys I’ve ever come across in my life.” “The Broncos have now made quite an investment in their secondary, locking up Harris and Talib to the tune of nearly $100 million. A hefty price, but necessary in this quarterback-savvy league. “The passing game’s a big part of the game right now and so you can’t have enough good cover guys,’’ Elway said. “To be able to have two guys like we have in Aqib and now Chris under contract, it’s very, very important.” Next up for Elway is working out deals for receiver De-

maryius Thomas and tight end Julius Thomas. Looming on the horizon is hybrid linebacker Von Miller as well. “We’re hoping that we can get everybody,’’ Elway said. “It’s never going to be easy, but Chris was the target to start with and we were thankful to get that done, so we hope that we can continue to do that and keep this team together. “I’m happy for guys like Chris. I’m happy for him because he’s the type of guy you want around, a great competitor, tough. It just gives him confidence to know what we think of him but also know that he’s got that ability to step up and be that kind of leader.” AP Pro Football Writer Arnie Stapleton contributed to this report.

CAREERS

OurColoradoClassifieds.com

Federal Programs Director

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Responsibilities- To provide quality leadership, supervision, and management of all Federal Programs and activities including ESEA (Title I, Title II, and Title III) and Perkins. To monitor and advise member districts in matters that relate to compliance with Federal regulations. To write the Federal Consolidated Application, Perkins Application and create aligned budgets, including focused professional development for member districts. Qualifications/Standards Possess the Teacher/Principal License required by the Colorado Department of Education. Possess a M.A. degree in an Educational field. Demonstrate grant and project writing skills. Demonstrate training, supervision and staff evaluation skills. Preferred two years’ experience as a principal, coordinator or program director with responsibilities in planning, budgeting, evaluating, and implementing Federal Programs (Title I, Title II, and Title III). Specific Skills, Experience, Other Requirements - Serve as liaison to Colorado Department of Education Federal Programs Unit in all matters concerning Federal Programs. Oversee Federal Programs to ensure compliance and implementation. Grant writing, budget management, and designing professional development, including implementation and evaluation. Ability to work closely and collaboratively with individuals and various groups. Employment Terms / Salary Range - Contract is for 241 days Minimum salary of $60,000. Salary is negotiable and commensurate with qualifications and experience. ECBOCES also offers a generous benefit package. Application Process / Requirements - To be considered an applicant you will need to provide a cover letter, professional resume, completed application, copy of current license, and three current letters of recommendation. The cover letter must detail why your qualifications would match the standards for this position. Application can be found on our website – ecboces.org. Application Deadline - January 9, 2015 Interviews will be January 22, 2015 Employment Start Date: July 1, 2015 Submit Application Materials to: Don Anderson, Executive Director East Central BOCES P.O. Box 910, 820 Second Street Limon, CO 80828 719-775-2342 extension 116 or email at dona@ecboces.org East Central BOCES does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disabilities in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in its educational programs or activities. Inquiries regarding East Central BOCES compliance with Title IX, Section 504, Title VI, Title VII, American Disabilities Act – 1990, and Affirmative Action may be referred to the Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Compliance Office for East Central BOCES, P.O. 910, 820 Second Street, Limon Colorado, 80828.

Help Wanted Itinerant Part-Time School Social Worker, EC BOCES west area school districts - Grades Pre-12. Must have or be eligible for appropriate Colorado licensure. Salary based on experience. Exc bene. Access to company vehicle or mileage reimb. To apply for this position, please complete the Certified Application for Employment available for download on our website @ecboces.org, under Employment Opportunities. Questions contact Tracy at (719) 775-2342, ext. 101. Please fax completed application and supporting documents, including resume, to (719) 775-9714 or email tracyg@ecboces.org. EOE.

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14-Sports

14 Elbert County News

December 25, 2014

Easy ideas for holiday wreaths Wreaths are synonymous with the holiday season, and they can range from intricate to simple to flashy to rustic. Creating festive wreaths does not necessarily require a lot of skill, and wreaths can be fashioned from a variety of different materials. The first step to crafting wreaths is to gather the foundation pieces. This usually involves a sturdy material that will serve as the wreath round. It can be vine, foam, branches, or even wire. You’ll also need decorative items that fit the theme of your wreath. These may be berries, ornaments, ribbons, bows, and other trinkets that will be attached to the wreath. Florist wire and tape can be used to attach the ornaments to the wreath.

“Say cheese” wreath

Purchase a premade evergreen wreath or wrap boughs of pine around a wreath frame to make your own. Glue or tie on small wooden frames with photos of the family to the wreath. Fill in the barren spots with small bows and ornaments.

Fruitful wreath

Instead of an evergreen wreath, create something festive and edible. Fruit and vegetables in vibrant colors can be used to fashion a wreath. Use picks or wire to attach oranges, lemons, limes, clementines, and any other produce desired to a foam wreath. Use leaves to fill in sparse areas and a thick ribbon to hang the wreath.

Holly vine wreath

Purchase a plain grapevine wreath and decorate it with sprigs of holly leaves and stems with berries. Simple and festive, this wreath should take only a few minutes to make and then hang.

Metallic wreath

Add a glamorous touch to an evergreen wreath with faux fruit and pine cones that you paint with glimmering metallic colors. Intersperse items in gold, copper and silver for an eye-catching piece that can adorn any spot in

your home. Add a few twinkling lights to reflect off of the metallic elements to add even more appeal.

Bells or glass ornament wreath

Use flexible wire to string a wreath of metal bells or glass ornaments together in a ring shape. Bells not only look nice but also lend a gentle twinkling sound anytime the door is opened.

Floral wreath

Make a fresh flower wreath from a florist’s wreath and fresh blooms. Soak the foam wreath in water according to the packaged directions. Trim flower stems (carnations are durable) and insert the stems into the wreath. Attach a bow to the bottom of the wreath and then hang. This is one wreath that is best displayed the day of the festivities because it has a short shelf life.

Cinnamon wreath

This wreath looks beautiful and gives off that quintessential holiday aroma. Begin with a foam wreath and wrap with a twoinch wide ribbon to cover. Use hot glue to secure cinnamon sticks all around the wreath. For more color, add sprigs of holly, bows or mistletoe.

Elbert County News 15

December 25, 2014

Agent

quarters in Lexington, Ky. Mentoring 4-H members is a little different from her work at Alltech, but Benson sees the carry-over of Continued from Page 1 skills from her previous job as essenand growth opportunity for the tial, especially in the area of people kids,” she said, “but it also provides management and coordination with PUBLIC NOTICE them with positive adult relation- others. COMBINED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S ships outside of immediate family.” SALE 2013CV30 Benson will need her 4H skills to CRS §38-38-103 Born in New Mexico’s Sandoval work landowners seeking help FORECLOSURE SALEwith NO.14-0100 : County, Benson became involved with animal husbandry and grazOriginal Grantor(s): RCI Development with 4-H by judging as a youth andInc., a Colorado Corporation Partners, ing management, to assist growers Original Beneficiary(ies): New Frontier while in college. She is a large-aniBank with noxious weed control or crop Holder of Evidence of Debt: mal expert and earned both aCurrent bach2010-1 RADC/CADC Venture, LLC, production, anda to oversee the CSU elor of science in animal science Delaware limited liability company Master Gardener Volunteer Program. industry with emphasis in Date equine of Deed of Trust: 3/18/2009 Her duties will County of Recording: Elbert management in 2009 and a Recording master Date of Deed of Trust: also include gen4/23/2009 of science in animal science in 2011 erating financial support for educaRecording Information (Reception tional programs from New Mexico State University Numberin and/or Book/Page Number): through grant writ501363 ing, fundraising, and contracting. Las Cruces. Book: 710 Page: 813 Original Principal Amount: $12,643,868.55 While completing her master’s Benson received a warm welcome Outstanding Principal Balance: thesis, she worked full-time$ 1 2as , 6 4 3a, 8 6 8at . 5 5the Dec. 10 meeting of the Elbert quality assurance coordinator Pursuantatto CRS §38-38-101(4)(1), you County commissioners, where she are hereby notified that the covenants of Alltech, a privately held the animal was deed of trust haveintroduced. been violated as follows: in failure to pay principal and inhealth company headquartered “I very terest when due together withmuch all otherappreciate your supKentucky with a manufacturing fa-provided for in the evidence of payments told the commissioners. “I debt secured byport,” the deed she of trust and othcility in Clovis, N.M. er violations thereof. look forward to joining this wonderDuring her three years with the THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE company, she tested the dairy cowLIEN. ful community and helping as much A FIRST See attached Exhibit A. as I can.” supplements the company Also manuknown by street and number as: Benson County Vacant Land. says that the door to the factures and advised on the Elbert design THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN extension office IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CUR- in Kiowa is open, of a small-scale, prototype producRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN encourages people to come by tion line based on a larger operation OF THE DEEDand OF TRUST. to get to know her. located near the company’s head- NOTICE OF SALE

Public Notices Misc. Private Legals PUBLIC NOTICE COMBINED NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE 2013CV30 CRS §38-38-103 FORECLOSURE SALE NO.14-0100 : Original Grantor(s): RCI Development Partners, Inc., a Colorado Corporation Original Beneficiary(ies): New Frontier Bank Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: 2010-1 RADC/CADC Venture, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company Date of Deed of Trust: 3/18/2009 County of Recording: Elbert Recording Date of Deed of Trust : 4/23/2009 Recording Information (Reception Number and/or Book/Page Number): 501363 Book: 710 Page: 813 Original Principal Amount: $12,643,868.55 Outstanding Principal Balance: $12,643,868.55 Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(1), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations thereof. THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN. See attached Exhibit A. Also known by street and number as: Elbert County Vacant Land. THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST. NOTICE OF SALE Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00am, on February 13, 2015, at 751 Ute Avenue, P.O. Box 486, Kiowa, Colorado 80117, phone number: 303 805-6125, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. First Publication: December 18, 2014 Last Publication: January 15, 2015 Name of Publication: Elbert County News NOTICE OF RIGHTS YOU MAY HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY BEING FORECLOSED, OR HAVE CERTAIN RIGHTS OR SUFFER CERTAIN LIABILITIES PURSUANT TO COLORADO STATUTES AS A RESULT OF SAID FORECLOSURE. YOU MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO REDEEM SAID REAL PROPERTY OR YOU MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO CURE A DEFAULT UNDER THE DEED OF TRUST BEING FORECLOSED. A COPY OF SAID STATUTES, AS SUCH STATUTES ARE PRESENTLY CONSTITUTED, WHICH MAY AFFECT YOUR RIGHTS SHALL BE SENT WITH ALL MAILED COPIES OF THIS NOTICE. HOWEVER, YOUR RIGHTS MAY BE DETERMINED BY PREVIOUS STATUTES. DATE: November 14, 2014 The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: Cristel D. Shepherd #39351 Polsinelli PC 1515 Wynkoop, Suite 600, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 572-9300 Attorney File # 064612-434906 The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose. SHAYNE HEAP SHERIFF, ELBERT COUNTY STATE OF COLORADO EXHIBIT A ALL SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 6 SOUTH, RANGE 65 WEST OF THE 6TH P.M., COUNTY OF ELBERT, STATE OF COLORADO TOGETHER WITH ALL RIGHTS, EASEMENTS, APPURTENANCES, ROYALTIES, MINERAL RIGHTS, OIL AND GAS RIGHTS, CROPS, TIMBER, ALL DIVERSION PAYMENTS OR THIRD PARTY PAYMENTS MADE TO CROP PRODUCERS, ALL WATER AND RIPARIAN RIGHTS, WELLS, DITCHES, RESERVOIRS AND WATER STOCK AND ALL EXISTING AND FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS, STRUCTURES, FIXTURES, AND REPLACEMENTS THAT MAY

Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00am, on February 13, 2015, at 751 Ute Avenue, P.O. Box 486, Kiowa, Colorado 80117, phone number: 303 805-6125, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. First Publication: December 18, 2014 Last Publication: January 15, 2015 Name of Publication: Elbert County News

Misc. Private Legals

NOTICE OF RIGHTS YOU MAY HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY BEING FORECLOSED, OR HAVE CERTAIN RIGHTS OR SUFFER CERTAIN LIABILITIES PURSUANT TO COLORADO STATUTES AS A RESULT OF SAID FORECLOSURE. YOU MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO REDEEM SAID REAL PROPERTY OR YOU MAY HAVE THE RIGHT TO CURE A DEFAULT UNDER THE DEED OF TRUST BEING FORECLOSED. A COPY OF SAID STATUTES, AS SUCH STATUTES ARE PRESENTLY CONSTITUTED, WHICH MAY AFFECT YOUR RIGHTS SHALL BE SENT WITH ALL MAILED COPIES OF THIS NOTICE. HOWEVER, YOUR RIGHTS MAY BE DETERMINED BY PREVIOUS STATUTES. DATE: November 14, 2014 The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: Cristel D. Shepherd #39351 Polsinelli PC 1515 Wynkoop, Suite 600, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 572-9300 Attorney File # 064612-434906 The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose. SHAYNE HEAP SHERIFF, ELBERT COUNTY STATE OF COLORADO EXHIBIT A ALL SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 6 SOUTH, RANGE 65 WEST OF THE 6TH P.M., COUNTY OF ELBERT, STATE OF COLORADO TOGETHER WITH ALL RIGHTS, EASEMENTS, APPURTENANCES, ROYALTIES, MINERAL RIGHTS, OIL AND GAS RIGHTS, CROPS, TIMBER, ALL DIVERSION PAYMENTS OR THIRD PARTY PAYMENTS MADE TO CROP PRODUCERS, ALL WATER AND RIPARIAN RIGHTS, WELLS, DITCHES, RESERVOIRS AND WATER STOCK AND ALL EXISTING AND FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS, STRUCTURES, FIXTURES, AND REPLACEMENTS THAT MAY NOW, OR AT ANY TIME IN THE FUTURE, BE PART OF THE REAL ESTATE DESCRIBED (ALL REFERRED TO AS PROPERTY). Legal Notice No.: 231105 First Publication: December 18, 2014 Last Publication: January 15, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News

Notices

New Elbert County Extension Agent Kali Benson is introduced at the Dec. 10 meeting of the county commissioners. Photo by Rick Gustafson

Government Legals Public Notice NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED TSC# 2011-01452 To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It may Concern, and more especially to: Haynes Family Limited Partnership You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 8th day of November A.D.2011 the then County Treasurer of the County of Elbert, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Uemco Real Estate Fund LLC the following described real estate situate in the County of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit: Section: 33 Township: 6 Range: 64 PAR IN E2Subdivision: RURALA Tract: X and said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Haynes Family Limited Partnership. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2010; That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Haynes Family Limited Partnership for said year 2010. That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said Uemco Real Estate Fund LLC at 3:00 o’clock P.M., on the 9th day of April, A.D.2015, unless the same has been redeemed. Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed. Witness my hand this 11th day of December, 2014 A. D.. Richard Pettitt County Treasurer of Elbert County Legal Notice No.: 231109 First Publication: December 25, 2014 Last Publication: January 1, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News Public Notice NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED TSC# 2011-01453 To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It may Concern, and more especially to: Haynes Family Limited Partnership You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 8th day of November A.D.2011 the then County Treasurer of the County of Elbert, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Uemco Real Estate Fund the following described real estate situate in the County of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit: Section: 33 Township: 6 Range: 64 PAR Y (20.749 ACRES) Subdivision: RURALA Tract: Y and said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Haynes Family Limited Partnership. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2010; That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Haynes Family Limited Partnership for said year 2010. That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said Uemco Real Estate Fund LLC at 3:00 o’clock P.M., on the 9th day of April, A.D.2015, unless the same has been redeemed. Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed. Witness my hand this 11th day of December, 2014 A. D.. Richard Pettitt County Treasurer of Elbert County

Government Legals Public Notice NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED TSC# 2011-01453 To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It may Concern, and more especially to: Haynes Family Limited Partnership You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 8th day of November A.D.2011 the then County Treasurer of the County of Elbert, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Uemco Real Estate Fund the following described real estate situate in the County of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit: Section: 33 Township: 6 Range: 64 PAR Y (20.749 ACRES) Subdivision: RURALA Tract: Y and said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Haynes Family Limited Partnership. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2010; That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Haynes Family Limited Partnership for said year 2010. That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said Uemco Real Estate Fund LLC at 3:00 o’clock P.M., on the 9th day of April, A.D.2015, unless the same has been redeemed. Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed. Witness my hand this 11th day of December, 2014 A. D.. Richard Pettitt County Treasurer of Elbert County Legal Notice No.: 231110 First Publication: December 25, 2014 Last Publication: January 1, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED TSC# 2001-00026 To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It may Concern, and more especially to: Jackie Scheidler You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 18th day of November A.D. 2002 the then County Treasurer of the County of Elbert, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Elbert County the following described real estate situate in the County of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit: SEVERED MINERALS AKA 0 SW4; S2SE4: 27 8 62 1/54 INT OF 30 MRA SE4; W2W2: 28 8 62 1/54 INT OF 40 MRA E2NE4; SE4: 29 8 62 1/54 INT OF 30 MRA E2: 32 8 62 1/54 INT OF 40 MRA W2: SE4: 33 8 62 1/54 INT OF 60 MRA MINERAL RIGHT ACRES 3.70 and said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Elbert County. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2001; That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Jackie Scheidler for said year 2001. That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said Elbert County at 3:00 o’clock P.M., on the 9th day of April, A.D.2015, unless the same has been redeemed. Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed. Witness my hand this 15th day of December, 2014 A. D.. Richard Pettitt

To advertise your public notices call 303-566-4100

PUBLIC NOTICE

Government Legals NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF

REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED TSC# 2001-00026 To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It may Concern, and more especially to: Jackie Scheidler You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 18th day of November A.D. 2002 the then County Treasurer of the County of Elbert, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Elbert County the following described real estate situate in the County of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit: SEVERED MINERALS AKA 0 SW4; S2SE4: 27 8 62 1/54 INT OF 30 MRA SE4; W2W2: 28 8 62 1/54 INT OF 40 MRA E2NE4; SE4: 29 8 62 1/54 INT OF 30 MRA E2: 32 8 62 1/54 INT OF 40 MRA W2: SE4: 33 8 62 1/54 INT OF 60 MRA MINERAL RIGHT ACRES 3.70 and said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Elbert County. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2001; That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Jackie Scheidler for said year 2001. That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said Elbert County at 3:00 o’clock P.M., on the 9th day of April, A.D.2015, unless the same has been redeemed. Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed. Witness my hand this 15th day of December, 2014 A. D.. Richard Pettitt County Treasurer of Elbert County Legal Notice No.: 23111 First Publication: December 25, 2014 Last Publication: January 8, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News Public Notice NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED TSC# 2001-00025 To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It may Concern, and more especially to: Vaughn B Nowlin You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 18th day of November A.D. 2002 the then County Treasurer of the County of Elbert, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Elbert County the following described real estate situate in the County of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit: SEVERED MINERALS AKA 0 SW4; S2SE4: 27 8 62 30 MRA 1/18 INT 1.67 MRA SE4; W2W2: 28 8 62 40 MRA 1/18 INT 2.22 MRA E2NE4; SE4: 29 8 62 30 MRA 1/18 INT 1.67 MRA E2: 32 8 62 40 MRA 1/18 INT 2.22 MRA W2: SE4: 33 8 62 60 MRA 1/18 INT 3.33 MRA MINERAL RIGHT ACRES 11.11 and said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Elbert County. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2001; That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Vaughn B Nowlin for said year 2001. That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said Elbert County at 3:00 o’clock P.M., on the 9th day of April, A.D.2015, unless the same has been redeemed. Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed. Witness my hand this 15th day of December, 2014 A. D..

Public Notice Government Legals

NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED TSC# 2001-00025 To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the Same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It may Concern, and more especially to: Vaughn B Nowlin You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 18th day of November A.D. 2002 the then County Treasurer of the County of Elbert, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to Elbert County the following described real estate situate in the County of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit: SEVERED MINERALS AKA 0 SW4; S2SE4: 27 8 62 30 MRA 1/18 INT 1.67 MRA SE4; W2W2: 28 8 62 40 MRA 1/18 INT 2.22 MRA E2NE4; SE4: 29 8 62 30 MRA 1/18 INT 1.67 MRA E2: 32 8 62 40 MRA 1/18 INT 2.22 MRA W2: SE4: 33 8 62 60 MRA 1/18 INT 3.33 MRA MINERAL RIGHT ACRES 11.11 and said County Treasurer issued a certificate of purchase therefore to Elbert County. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2001; That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of Vaughn B Nowlin for said year 2001. That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said Elbert County at 3:00 o’clock P.M., on the 9th day of April, A.D.2015, unless the same has been redeemed. Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed. Witness my hand this 15th day of December, 2014 A. D.. Richard Pettitt County Treasurer of Elbert County Legal Notice No.: 23112 First Publication: December 25, 2014 Last Publication: January 8, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News

16 Elbert County News

December 25, 2014

Graduation goes to the dogs Freedom Service Dogs clients, canines receive their diplomas By Tom Munds

tmunds @coloradocommunitymedia.com Jan James said her rescue dog rescued her. “I have a balance disorder. I have good days and bad days. On bad days, I didn’t want to get out of bed,” the Parker resident said. “Since Freedom Service Dogs teamed me up with Whimsy, I have a reason to get up in the morning. She helps me with my balance, relieves my depression and stress. Whimsy is my medication of choice. She made me happy and complete again.” Terms like “my dog changed my life” and “my dog enabled me to make adjustments so I can live a normal life again” were among frequent comments made when James and 26 other clients and dogs were honored at the Dec. 13 Freedom Service Dog Graduation Ceremonies at the University of Denver’s Craig Hall. Freedom Service Dogs, located at 2000 W. Union Ave., is a nonprofit organization that rescues dogs from shelters and trains them to provide specialized services to people with disabilities. Sharan Wilson, Freedom Service Dogs director, said normally the graduations are held at Hampden Hall in the Englewood Civic Center, but, because of a need for a larger auditorium because of the number of graduates, the ceremony was moved to DU. Wilson thanked about 250 people in the audience for attending. Rescuing a dog from a shelter and training the animal to be service dog takes almost a year and costs about $25,000, she said. The process begins with basic training and testing to see if a dog is a candidate to be a service dog. Only about 50 percent of the rescued dogs qualify to continue service dog training. But good homes are found for all the dogs that don’t complete training. Early in the process, each dog in training is matched with a client, Wilson said. That makes it possible to train the dog to perform

LEFT: Jan James and Whimsy take a little break after they took part in the Dec. 13 Freedom Service Dogs Graduation Ceremonies. The Parker resident and her dog were among the 27 teams receiving certificates upon completing training. RIGHT: Rick Stewart, former Arapahoe County Veterans Service Officer, and his dog, Chase, take a break after going through the Dec. 13 Freedom Service Dogs Graduation Ceremonies. Stewart and Chase were among the 27 teams that graduated during the ceremonies. Photos by Tom Munds specific and sometimes specialized services for that person. The client attends training sessions to develop a relationship with the new best friend and learn how to direct the dog to perform needed services. Once the training is completed, the dog is given to its new master free of charge. Three groups graduated Dec. 13, military members or veterans, traditional clients and dogs trained for the University of Denver therapy dog program. Rick Steward, former Arapahoe County Veteran’s Service Officer, graduated with his dog, Chase, as a member of the military group. “Chase has helped me in more ways than I can count,” the Douglas County resident said. “I suffered a serious injury when I was in the service. Chase helps me with balance when I walk, picks up things for me and does about anything I ask.”

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In addition to the tasks Chase performs, the dog’s devotion and dedication reminds him that everyone should be considerate and care for others, he said. Josh Cartier and his dog, Posie, were also military graduates. Posie helps him physically and mentally so he can live a fairly normal life, he said. “Posie is phenomenal, so she and I bonded almost instantly,” he said. “During training I drove up at least once a week from Colorado Springs to visit. We did some things together, and I even sometimes took a nap with her. Shaun Miller was among the traditional clients graduating. The 13-year-old sat in his wheelchair with his dog Velcro lying at his feet. “We have only had Velcro a short time, but the dog has made a world of difference in Shaun,” his mother Misty said. “The dog has

helped him keep calm and picks up thing for him.” Her son adores the dog, and Velcro adores Shaun. The dog is at the window and goes out to meet the boy when he gets off the bus from school, she said. Matt Mock and Pawnee were among the nine DU teams graduating. “I am in my second year with the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work, and, last year, I got an internship with Freedom Service Dogs,” Mock said. “I bonded with Pawnee immediately. Pawnee is gentle and calm and fit perfectly for our therapy sessions with troubled adolescents.” Starting in January he and Pawnee will be part of the team that will work one-on-one with children in the Sheridan School District, he said.

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