VOLUME 39 • NUMBER 7 • JANUARY 7, 2021
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PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
CDPHE is trying hard to get Coloradans vaccinated BY FREDA MIKLIN GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER
On December 30, Rachel Herlihy, M.D. and CDPHE state epidemiologist, Eric France, M.D., CDPHE chief medical officer presented updated information about how the COVID-19 vaccines are being delivered and the new variant of the virus first discovered in the U.S. in Colorado. A new priority chart for delivering the vaccine was presented. Still divided into three phases— winter, spring, and summer—the most significant adjustment was to who is covered in phase 1B. The doctors also clarified that there is likely to be overlap between phases 1A, which is comprised of health care personnel who treat COVID-19 patients and residents and staff of long-term care facilities, and phase 1B. The revised list of those eligible to get the vaccine in phase 1B includes Coloradans aged 70+, other health care personnel including home health care and hospice workers, EMS, pharmacy and dental personnel, police and firefighters, correctional and
funeral service workers, followed by frontline workers in education, food and agriculture, manufacturing, postal and public transit workers, grocery store personnel, and those who work in public health and human services. Phase two is focused on the rest of the seniors aged 60-69 and also includes those under age 60 with pre-existing health conditions that make getting the virus more dangerous. The second phase is expected to be done in the spring, with everyone else not previously vaccinated planned to be immunized by summer. In addressing the change to moving those age 70+ to the first phase, Governor Polis said that
This latest chart from CDPHE shows the priority order for receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
“78% of fatalities in Colorado are of people 70 and up. That’s why we didn’t adopt CDC guidance of 75 and up,” adding, “We are requesting today that CMS (the federal agency that runs Medicare and Medicaid programs) temporarily pause allowing visitors at nursing
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homes so we can focus on getting all these people vaccinated…. We want to vaccinate that population as soon as possible. As soon as they have immunity, we look forward to stopping that.” He also wanted all Coloradans to be aware that, “The vaccine is free and there is no co-pay. If anyone is trying to charge you, that is not a real vaccine.” In response to a question from The Villager about how those who are 70+ can access the vaccine, the Colorado State Emergency Operations Center told us, “We currently expect that we will get through the majority of Phase 1A healthcare workers by January 15 and as we get close to that date, we will be able to provide more information for Coloradans on next steps. The state is actively working with local public health agencies to determine which additional providers will vaccinate members of the 1A and 1B groups, and we are continually onboarding new providers. Several counties are planning to hold mass vaccination clinics for members of their communities. In the coming days and as more information becomes finalized, we will publish additional locations for vaccine distribution on the state website. For more information on the vaccine distribution process, you may call COHELP at 303-389-1687 or 877-462-2911, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. or visit our Vaccine for Coloradans website. Emily Travanty, Ph.D., CDPHE scientific director, answered questions about the new variant of the COVID-19 virus, first found in the United States in a Colorado National Guard (CNG) member on December 24. She said another
CNG member was suspected of having the new variant, but it had not yet been confirmed. Dr. Travanty explained that CDPHE scientists at the state laboratory, in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), made the finding using genome sequencing on positive coronavirus tests that showed a signature for the new variant. Both CNG members had been helping staff at the Good Samaritan Society nursing home in the town of Simla in Elbert County, 48 miles northeast of Colorado Springs. They had only been there one day when they were discovered to have contracted the virus, hence it is quite possible that one or both of them contracted it before arriving in Simla. Additionally, all 26 residents of Good Samaritan were positive for COVID-19 when the CNG members arrived, but none appeared to have the new variant of the virus, according to Dr. Travanty. Dr. Herlihy said the CNG member who was confirmed positive was quarantining for ten days at home in Arapahoe County and the suspected positive CNG member was quarantining in a hotel in Lincoln County. She declined to identify the gender of either impacted CNG member to protect their privacy. Dr. France confirmed previous reports that the new variant of the virus was more contagious but not more dangerous than the original in the severity of the illness or the potential to be lethal. He also confirmed that, at this time, the medical community believes that the current vaccines on the market will be as effective against this version of the virus as they are against the original version. Fmiklin.villager@gmail.com
January 7, 2021 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3
Restaurants can open--Polis moves all counties at Level Red to Level Orange BY FREDA MIKLIN GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER
On December 30, Governor Polis announced on Facebook that he was “asking CDPHE (Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment) to move counties in Red on the dial to Orange, effective Monday, January 4, 2021.” Addressing the subject that has been front of mind for so many of our state’s business owners, he explained, “Throughout this pandemic, we have had to walk a difficult line between the public health crisis and the economic crisis. In reviewing the data today, Colorado has been in a sustained decline for 13 days, and only 73% of ICU beds statewide are in use. This is a direct result of Coloradans stepping up and taking the steps to protect themselves and others.” At Level Orange, in-person learning is suggested for K-12 public schools, indoor dining at 25% capacity with up to 50 people is permitted with no special requirements other than those already in place to prevent the spread of the virus, indoor seated events and entertainment is allowed at 25% of capacity up to 50 people, and gyms can operate at 25% capacity with up to 25 people indoors. Last call for restaurants serving alcohol is at 10:00 p.m. Virtually all the counties in metro Denver were in the Level Red group to which these new standards will be applied beginning January
New book by local author set in Centennial/ Greenwood Village Jean E Sidinger’s new memoir, In Search of the Owl, features Centennial and Greenwood Village. Readers will visit Little Dry Creek and experience the vagaries of Colorado weather and seasons. In the book, written the year following the death of her father, environmental pioneer Levi L. Mohler, she turns to nature in her search for a deeper understanding of life and death. Graphite and ink illustrations by the author include ducks and an aged willow tree at Westlands Park, yucca in Cherry Creek State Park, and a fly-over of Canada geese. In keeping with her father’s passion for and dedication to wildlife and the environment one dollar from the sale of each book will benefit a major conservation organization. Jean’s father also had ties to Colorado. He graduated from Colorado State Teachers College (now University of Northern Colorado.) Mohler was a teacher and football coach at Lakewood High School in the 1930s. In the summers he drove a La Salle touring car, transporting tourists from Estes Park to Grand Lake over Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. In Search of the Owl is available on Amazon Books.
This chart from CDPHE shows the steady decline in new COVID-19 cases from a high of 6,638 on November 12 to 1,690 on January 1.
4. Douglas, Arapahoe, Broomfield, and Jefferson Counties have also been approved for the state’s 5-Star Program, which allows businesses to operate one level down from wherever they are. The Villager asked Luc
Hatlestad, Arapahoe County public information officer, what that meant for those businesses approved or in the process of getting approved for the 5-Star Program. He told us, “The main lure of applying for certification
now is that it would be in place if/when any other dial moves happen, and if all our numbers continue improving over the next few weeks, and CDPHE gives it their thumbs up, any “pre-approved” businesses
would be able to switch to Level Yellow restrictions right away.” He also told us that the county had received about 75 applications as of December 31. Continued on page 12
ARAPAHOE COUNTY C NVERSATIONS Five-Star Recovery Partner Program Qualified businesses can now apply for certification that permits higher capacities than the County’s position on the State COVID dial.
Keep it up, Arapahoe!
Visit arapahoegov.com/fivestar
Telephone Town Hall – Vaccination Update Join us on Thursday, January 7 @ 6:30 p.m. for a discussion on the COVID-19 vaccination and the County’s distribution plans. Get details at arapahoegov.com/townhall The County Line Get monthly updates from your County Commissioners about recent news and upcoming events in your district and throughout the County. Sign up now. Visit arapahoegov.com/commissionernews Virtual Swearing In You are invited to attend the virtual swearing-in ceremony for newly elected County officials on January 11 @ 6:30 p.m. Access the live event: arapahoegov.com/BOCC Free COVID Testing in Aurora Get tested at the Aurora Center for Active Adults parking lot. Hours are MondaySaturday (excluding holidays), 8 a.m-5 p.m., and the tests are free and do not require health insurance. Visit TCHD.org/COVID-19Testing
arapahoegov.com
PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
The Villager
Hindsight versus foresight We can all look back over 2020 with frustration, fear and fortitude. It is easy to be a back-seat driver and look at the road ahead. It appears to me that the nation’s health network system has been outstanding. Our doctors, nurses, health care providers, and senior living facilities have been heroes fighting this pandemic. The same goes for the men and women who have shown up for work at the grocery stores, gas stations, and all essential service providers. All in all, a lot of people deserve a pat on the back for keeping doors open and public services such as water and electricity flowing to our homes. Our loyal police officers have kept us safe and patrolling our streets along with our fire departments that stand ready to answer emergency calls. We take these services for granted, but many people have performed
necessary tasks that will never be publicly thanked enough. A BIG THANK YOU TO BRAVE AMERICAN WORKERS! Now we must get on with our lives, put the past behind us and have some foresight into 2021. It appears that whether we like it, or not, we all must get vaccinated. I don’t relish the thought, but future travel, airplanes, passports, foreign countries, will require these vaccinations. Many visas require the old inoculations such as tetanus and smallpox. It would seem to make sense, as medical science has more time, that these vaccines will be improved and last longer, only requiring one inculcation. But, in the meantime we all need to be as safe as possible and receive the vaccination. Looking forward, we need to reopen schools with teachers and students who wish to attend live classes. Parents can be
A new year is on the spread with wheat, corn, soybeans, hogs and cattle, all at high prices. Farmers and ranchers are happy and buying new trucks and tractors. City folks, like most of us, will feel the commodity impact at the grocery stores. Expect prices to rise for cereal, meat, and produce. Oil is creeping up in price and reaching $50 a barrel; expect gasoline prices to rise at the gasoline stations. Electric cars are on the horizon, but still somewhere in the distant future. The new hybrid gasoline engine, combination battery cars are very popular and efficient. While oil and gas are unpopular in some circles, this nation runs on fossil fuels. The jobs, taxes, and impact on the economy is awesome. Certainly, wind and solar are making an impact but if the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine we are in the dark. My prediction is that new sources of nuclear energy will be developed and one day a small nuclear battery will run your house and car for a year. The challenge will be the waste prod-
uct and how to dispose of any radiation impacts. There will be further research in both fission and fusion technology, energy components that produce more energy than they consume. American ingenuity will prevail, we’ll get through this pandemic. There are many theories floating around about how it started and where. As readers of this column know, in the past I’ve had various meetings with many people; new friends, and old, at numerous restaurants. That is one of the sources for keeping up on local news that comes with owning a newspaper. The lunches have been few and far between the last ten months, so I’ve relied on emails, notes, and letters for information. A thank you to many of you who have mailed me jokes and stories from other publications across America. Keep them coming until we can meet again in person. I had a call from a reader in Reno Sunday who loved the Christmas eve story. Another local reader friend said it made him cry his glasses off. The message was about giving, not
given a choice to continue home remote learning or send students back to school. We need to open our restaurants; they never should have been closed in the first place. It is a tragedy that so many food providers have been closed while we keep larger businesses functioning. “Proceed at your own risk” should be the standard, as a worker, or client, don’t go if you are fearful. We will be dealing with the pandemic for months and some of the financial hardships are surfacing and will become worse. The governments - national, state, and local can only do so much. They have performed well! I predict the Trump or Biden administration will eventually approve the $2000 stimulus payments. However, that doesn’t make many home or rental payments. ( The government should take a look at outrageous credit card interest fees.) What will emerge is the great American free enterprise system where opportunity will exist for
receiving. We all need to be mindful of the non-profits who are dealing with hunger and the homeless. The Salvation Army is the best organization in Denver and America to help the unfortunate. I’m guessing that their annual “Kettle Drive” fell short this year with the pandemic. I’ve been a Lion’s club “Bellringer” for them in past years and we didn’t do it this year because of Covid-19. Do what you can for the Salvation Army, and VOA(Volunteers of America), a spin-off of the same group. They are also one of the very best non-profits. VOA does a huge “Meals on Wheels” feeding program in the metro area along with housing needy families with children. The need is going to be great for many outstanding non-profit organizations to assist people. *** A bit of history comes from Anna Lee Frohlich, longtime metro resident and member of the Westerner’s Colorado History Club. Here’s what she sent me: ”History repeats itself. Came across this poem written in 1869, reprinted during the
new restaurant owners, brave entrepreneurs who will venture their talent and money to open a business and take a risk in the open market. There has never been government guarantee for one’s success. The free enterprise system is not the fair enterprise system, but one that hinges on fierce competition, hard work, providing a needed service and good luck. (Bad luck has occurred, history repeats.) Lastly, in order to pay off this massive debt the government will continue to expand debt and print more money. Interest rates are extremely low and the government plan is to borrow at these low rates and over time repay the debts at extremely low interest rates to lenders who purchase the cheap, but safe bonds. This expansion of debt and cheap money will lead to inflation. That is a topic for another day where we need strong leadership at all levels. The great American spirit will prevail.
1919 Pandemic:” THIS IS TIMELESS… And people stayed at home And read books And listened And rested And did exercises, And made art and played And learned new ways of being And stopped and listened More deeply Someone meditated, someone prayed Someone met their shadow And people began to think differently And people healed And in the absence of people who Lived in ignorant ways Dangerous, meaningless and heartless The earth also began to heal And when the danger ended and People found themselves They grieved for the dead And made new choices And dreamed of new visons And created new ways of living And completely healed the earth Just as they were healed. (Author(s) unknown)
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Reverend Martin Niemoller “In Germany, the Nazis first came for the communists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist. Then they came for the Catholics, and I didn’t speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me and by that time there was no one left to speak for me!”
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January 7, 2021 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5
OPINION
Sink or swim time for the GOP These next few weeks may be the last gasp for the Republican Party. They can swim with their party leader, President Trump, or sink into oblivion, becoming largely irrelevant, just as the Colorado GOP has over the past decade. If you believe that Joe Biden was fairly and legitimately elected, then stop reading and turn the page as my writing will only annoy you. Could a candidate who hardly campaigned garner 25 percent more votes than either Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton, lose all but one bellwether county, and have no coattails in House elections have miraculously jumped into the lead in the several states that paused vote counting in the middle of the night when votes amazingly shifted from the Trump to Biden column? If Democrats, corporate media, and foreign interests can steal a presidential election, they can steal any future congressional or gubernatorial election. If a bank robber can rob Fort Knox with ease, any bank on Main Street will be child’s play. This includes the Georgia Senate elections, not yet held at the time of this writing. Why would the same chicanery used on
November 6 not be used in these elections, giving Democrats control of the Senate? Then it’s lights out for the GOP. Remember as Josef Stalin said, “It’s not the people who vote that count, it’s the people who count the votes.” If there is no investigation or accountability, electoral fraud will be institutionalized, with single party government counting the votes each election. Once Democrats control two branches of government, with the third branch uninterested in doing their job, hiding behind their black robes, the rules of the game will be changed to keep Republicans in permanent minority status. Democrats can eliminate the filibuster and Electoral College, making our votes in Colorado irrelevant in a national election. Opening our borders, granting amnesty, citizenship, and voting rights to millions of foreigners, mostly poor, eager to enjoy the largess of American workers and taxpayers, voting to keep the benefit spigot wide open, will make election rigging unnecessary. Stacking the Supreme Court with a handful of far-left justices will permit the Constitution to be rewritten to the liking of Bernie and AOC. Medicare-for-all, the Green New Deal, Paris Climate BY BRIAN C. JOONDEPH
Accords, Iran nuke deal, and higher taxes will be promptly passed by a Democrat Congress and signed into law by the Democrat President, whoever he or she may be in a month. Fracking and Colorado’s booming energy industry will go the way of the horse and buggy, with a return to higher energy prices and dependence on Middle Eastern oil. Will Republicans in the minority be able to stop any of it? No. Fortunately, a few intrepid Republican members of Congress are finally stepping up to object to the electoral process, but the majority are silent. Locally, newly seated Representative Lauren Boebert will challenge the presidential election results but thus far her Republican colleagues Ken Buck and Doug Lamborn are happy to look the other way and relegate themselves and their party to the back benches of Congress in perpetuity. This is the sink or swim moment for the GOP. If they go wobbly on Trump, 75 million plus Trump supporters will go wobbly on the GOP, leaving for a new party or no party, turning off their votes and closing their wallets. Time for the GOP to step up and support their president. We are watching. If they sit on their hands, it will be lights out for the Republican Party, and for many of us, good riddance.
It is time for a smooth transfer of power
On January 20th, presidential power will formally transfer as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, John Roberts, administers the oath of office to president-elect Joe Biden, to become the 46th President of the United States of America. According to the procedures established in the United States Constitution and federal law, the Electoral College, represented by all states, has officially cast its vote certifying that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have been duly elected to hold the Office of President and Vice President. Yet, some members of congress and President Trump still refuse to acknowledge that Biden was formally certified as the overwhelming winner of the November 3rd election. The numerous allegations of voter fraud have been reviewed by state election officials, federal courts and even the U.S. Supreme Court. All have concluded that no evidence of vote manipulation or voter fraud could be found.
Some members of congress are even refusing to accept the formal votes of the Electoral College certifying that Biden is President elect. While the likelihood that their objections will not halt the formal certification that Biden will be sworn-in as president on the 20th, it does raise questions about their loyalty to their pledge to adhere to the principles of the oath of office when they took their federal offices. While everyone has the right to question the validity of the election procedures to ensure that elections are fair and inclusive but when those allegations are proven wrong, they must accept the legal outcome. Our very democracy continues to survive because we adhere to the principles of the Constitution that define the spirit and requirements that maintain our democracy and defines our obligations of citizenship. We can not bend the rules and procedures that are outlined in our Constitution to fit the wishes on any individual elected official. Our very democracy may vanish before our eyes.
PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
Cherry Creek School District nurses get vaccinated for COVID-19 uary 1 when the first group of CCSD essential front line workers in education, its nurses, began receiving vaccines at Parker Adventist Hospital in Parker. A joint announcement by CCSD and Centura Health issued on December 31 said, “Through a partnership between Centura Health and Cherry Creek Schools, school nurses will be among the first school district employees in Colorado to receive COVID-19 vaccines, kicking off a months-long effort to vaccinate educators and school staff in the new year. The
BY FREDA MIKLIN GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER
I
n the December 17 issue of The Villager, we reported that Cherry Creek Schools (CCSD) Superintendent Scott Siegfried and the rest of the CCSD school board were asking that everyone who wanted to see children in school full time “strongly advocate for educators to be prioritized in the vaccination schedule.” Siegfried also said, “This (hybrid learning) plan remains in place until educators have the opportunity to receive a vaccination, at which time the impact of the virus will
Cherry Creek Schools (CCSD) Superintendent Scott Siegfried was on hand to show his appreciation to CCSD nurses who came to Parker to get vaccinated on New Year’s Day.
When Governor Polis unveiled the revised vaccination
no longer be utilized as a measure for In-Person schooling.”
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Here is Jessi Puga, school nurse at Pine Ridge Elementary School, receiving her first COVID-19 vaccine shot on New Year’s Day. Photos courtesy of Cherry Creek School District
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This is Brianna Gragg, a health tech at Laredo Middle School getting her first of two COVID-19 vaccinations.
schedule on December 30, “frontline essential workers in education” had been moved into the Phase 1B group for vaccinations, meaning they are eligible to receive the vaccine immediately. The process to vaccinate CCSD educators began on Jan-
Compass is a licensed real estate broker in Colorado and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.
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vaccination of educators will help ensure that schools open successfully in January and remain open throughout the spring semester, bringing a close to the disruption in learning brought on by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Centura Health is providing the vaccinations at nocost to all CCSD educators and employees.” Abbe Smith, CCSD chief communications officer, told The Villager that all CCSD education personnel will begin getting vaccinated during the week of January 4 at four Centura Health locations—Castle Rock Adventist Hospital in Castle Rock, Porter Adventist Hospital in southeast Denver, Littleton Adventist Hospital in Littleton, as well as Parker Adventist Hospital in Parker. The current schedule for CCSD staff to return to school on January 5 and conduct remote learning on January 6-8, with in-person hybrid learning scheduled to begin Monday, January 11, will remain in place until Siegfried and the school board determine it is safe to return to traditional fully in-person classes. Siegfried has previously expressed his hope that it will be possible to do so during the (current) spring 2021 semester. Fmiklin.villager@gmail.com
January 7, 2021 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7
A Year to Remember, Or Forget?
Last year’s poem—A lifetime ago, A virus has proven a difficult foe. As the global pandemic of Covid-19, Brought worldwide panic as rarely seen. Who dreamed the closing of restaurants and bars, After taming the previous MERS and SARS? Trump blamed China--Opponents blamed Trump; The political divide was shown at the jump. Fauci, the star of infectious disease, Says distancing, washing, and masking are keys. Sherri and I sailed on a Cape Horn cruise; On disembark day, Chile refused. Santiago to Cali—More weeks at sea; The whole month of March—BOGO free. Arriving home, all would agree, The world we knew discontinued to be. No March Madness! All sports suspended; TV Cornhole—Our world was upended. The stock market crashed and came right back; Stimulus checks kept people on track. Quarantine launched The Tiger King; TP hoarding, the wackiest thing. Zoom calls proved a family hoot, As Grandma struggled to press unmute. Sewing honed for homemade masks; Homeschooling proved a difficult task. Working from home became a trend, To flatten the curve or at least pretend. Unemployment claims at an all-time high; Glad a vaccine is drawing nigh. In a bank with a mask while asking for money; ‘20 the first that this would be funny. The Lakers and Dodgers are Champs of the bubble; Electronic fans put in place on the double. More proof this year will be remembered? No Masters roars in the month of November. No pun that Wolverine gave me the boot; 37 years was all but moot. But they did me a favor by letting me go, To Thorogood boots which is destined to grow. Sherri’s business a whole new gear, “Can you see yourself being quarantined here?” Besides “the Rona” and all its fears; There’s plenty more news that happened this year: Kobe went down in a ‘copter crash; Soleimani killed in a drone strike smash. George Floyd cried that “I can’t breathe,” Protesters demanded justice received. Sweeping Australia and Cali fires, And the hurricane season particularly dire. Chadwick Boseman gone too soon; Eddie’s guitar was over the moon. The incredible life of RBG; My lawyer daughter now easier to be. The Royals no more for Meghan and Harry; Now with an opening, adopt Larry and Sherri? Last but not least, the election is done; Mail in voting extended the fun! Uncle Joe Biden the oldest by far; At least he won’t have to drive his own car. Grateful to bid this year goodbye; Exactly what Pence would’ve said to the fly.
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PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
January 7, 2021 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9
The avid golfers have their own personalized chairs
W
Gary joined M.D.C. Holdings, Inc. (MDC) as hen we think of Barbara and vice president of tax. In January of 1990, he was Gary Reece, we naturally asnamed Chief Financial Officer and served sociate them with Cancer in that position for nearly 19 years. (He League of Colorado was awarded CFO of the Year in 2008 (CLC). Cancer has by Denver Business Journal.) MDC’s touched them because of family Larry Mizel donated to multiple members and friends and a passion causes and encouraged his to find a cure. “Barbara and Gary executives and emhave dedicated so much of their ployees to do the lives to fighting cancer. They are same. That generthe heart of the Cancer League of osity and affiliations Colorado and are involved in evled to extraordinary ery activity, fundraiser and effort of experiences for Barb this 100% volunteer organization that and Gary. Gary had has no offices and no paid staff,” said been a longtime fan of Edie Marks, past president of Cancer Roger Staubach who acLeague. tually sat at Gary’s desk But Cancer League is just a fraction and left him a note leadof charities and causes to which this ing to a relationship and couple has given time, resources and suite seats. In 1994, comenergy. When visiting the magnificent Friends of the Children memorating MDC’s tenth Award presented by Walls of Fame in their Parker home, Families First to Barb year on the Stock Exchange, Gary I had remarked that to chronicle the and Barb went to New York (plus and Gary in 2009 decades of accolades, achievements, three other times) and MDC had a experiences, recognition, publicity and awards, it meeting in the actual board room. They were also would take an entire issue of The Villager. invited to a fundraiser for George W. Bush and had the opportunity to get acquainted with his father George H.W. Bush near Kennebunkport. By the numbers MDC was also awarded an Extraordinary Service Gary is serving his 11th consecutive term as president of Cancer League of Colorado that rais- to Humanity Award for contributions to relief of victims of 9/11. Cancer brought Michael Miller es money to support cancer research and related and Gary together, with their wives becoming patient care services in Colorado. Barb served as friends as well as their children and grandchilpresident of CLC in 2007-2008, chaired six of its Hope Balls and is currently serving her 11th dren. For many years they were a team for the consecutive year as vice president of fundraismember/guest tournament at Sherwood Couning. They were honored as Champions of Hope try Club in California beating the hockey great at CLC’s 2015 Hope Ball. The family has been Wayne Gretsky and his partner twice. In 2018, involved as well including son Jeff producing the Gary attended the MDC-sponsored commissionvirtual gala in 2020 and the grandchildren doing ing ceremony of the USS Colorado. Over the the kite décor for the 2008 Hope Ball. In addition years, Gary’s image graced the cover and pages to her support of Gary’s career and raising two of popular builder industry publications. very active, athletic and multi-talented children, Barb served in leadership positions for school Not really retirement PTOs and charitable organizations in every locaAside from serving as a member of tion where the family lived. In Colorado, she the board of directors and chair of the supported or chaired the Junior Symphony Guild Audit Committee for MDC, one of the Showhouse for 10 years. She served on the board largest homebuilding companies in of Families First in Denver for 28 years including the U.S. (he admits that he loves being president of that board for ten years. Until keeping a pulse on the profes2019, Gary also served on the board of directors sional world), he has been retired of Families First. Barb and Gary were instrusince 2008. However, after learnmental in merging that organization in May 2019 ing from his wife, the best – he jumped with Shiloh House whose mission was similar. full on into philanthropy.”Retirement is a For four years, Gary took to the road via bicycle misnomer,” he said. “But, I’m having a lot for the 100 mile (Century Ride) Dolphin Cancer more fun!” Challenge to support the Sylvester ComprehenTheir home is filled by works of artists sive Cancer Center in Miami. In 2014-2015 they support: Scy and Marianne CaroGary served as president of Glenmoor Country selli, Carrie Fell, the Makk family, ChrisClub after two previous years of being on its tine Pavlakis, Thomas Kincaid and Kathy board. They are also members of Colorado Golf Dawson.“Throughout our almost 50 years Club. And this, barely scratches the surface of together, Gary and I have tried to contribute in what the modest couple has given of themselves. a meaningful way to the betterment of the communities where we have lived, especially related How this dynamic couple met and began to causes involving children, education, fine arts, and healthcare. Our vision of giving back and their lives as a couple ‘paying it forward’ is an important part of the legFriends knew a perfect match when they saw acy we are conveying to our children and grandit! While at a band camp on Padres Island near children,” said Barb. She also said: “Creativity Corpus Christi, mutual friends wanted them to never ends.” Gary summed up his sentiments meet, buried them in the sand and…left. They with the following: “This community has blessed were married over Labor Day Weekend in 1974. us with great friends and tremendous opportuBarb left TCU after her freshman year to work nities to build a wonderful life for our family. full time putting Gary through the reminder of These opportunities have afforded us the flexibilhis undergraduate education. Her influence and ity to give back to our community with our time, partnership was of tremendous value in Gary’s our talents and our financial resources in support career preparation and success. Gary put his education in motion as a tax accountant for Texas of causes that are important to us, as well as the Eastern Transmission Corporation in Shreveport, people we care about.” For decades, they have kept their friends from every walk of life. Louisiana before joining Occidental Petroleum Congratulations Barb and Gary on your latest (OXY) for 11 years in various corporate tax-related positions in Houston, Tulsa, and Los Ange- award! It’s an honor to know you and a privilege les. In 1988, the family moved to Denver where to share this abbreviated story. BY SCOTTIE TAYLOR IVERSON
Barbara Schenck married Paris Garfield Reece III on August 31, 1974 at First Presbyterian Church in Ft. Worth, Texas when she was just 19 and he was 20 (after her freshman year and his sophomore year at TCU). LEFT: A sample of inspirational signs at the Reece residence
Diane Brandon Hadley with Barb chairing Cancer Support for Global Down League’s Hope Ball in 2017 Syndrome’s Be Beautiful Be Photos by Scottie Taylor Iverson and courtesy of the Reece family Yourself Fashion Show
PBJ is not for peanut butter and jelly but rather the family’s philanthropic legacy – PBJ Reece Charitable Fund, established for their names – Paris, Barb, son Jeff and daughter Jenny
At a Beaux Arts Ball benefiting National Jewish Health
Gary Reece, former Governor John Hickenlooper and Courtney Mizel at Cancer League’s signature event - Over the Edge in 2016 Photo by Karen White
The Shrimp Bloody Mary, Gary’s favorite lunchtime treat during ski season at Zach’s Cabin in Bachelor Gulch
The couple at Western Fantasy 2002
At Scottsdale in March 2020 with son Jeff and daughter-in-law Julie just before the Covid shutdown
fit t a bene arbara a spital B d n a Gary ren’s Ho for Child
Family portrait at the Reece residence – Barbara Reece, Gary Reece, Emily Reece (granddaughter), Haley Conrad (granddaughter), Jenny Conrad (daughter), Tyler Conrad (grandson), Julie Reece (daughter-in-law), Camden Forrest (grandson), Torrin Forrest (grandson) Jeff Reece (son) and Brinley Reece (granddaughter)
PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
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BOOK REVIEW It’s January, so let’s tidy up! I always clean my house thoroughly after putting the holiday decorations away. I also sort through my office and begin the process of tax preparation and getting my affairs in order for the new year. It is a good month to declutter, sort, toss, or donate possessions that you are not using. Furthermore, with pandemic restrictions and colder temperatures, many of us are stuck inside, so it is a good time to make our homes a haven removing items that we no longer love. With that in mind, I present a few of my favorite books to inspire you to clean, clear, and organize your home. First, there are an abundance of books on decluttering available. Although I am not going to review her books in this column, I would like to acknowledge Marie Kondo and her collection of books, which began with The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up. She has published several subsequent books and has a TV show on Netflix. Kondo has become very successful, and all of her materials are well done. My reviews will feature a few of my other favorites that may be new to you.
Your Parents Lifetime Accumulation of Stuff. The content is the same, but the title and cover changed. Julie Hall is a personal property expert, who wishes to show you how to clear a family home and minimize family feuds. The book is filled with excellent advice and guidance and also a few horror stories to motivate you to take positive action sooner than later. It is a wakeup call if you need one!
time I read it. However, I find clutter continues to accumulate gradually over the years. So, I recently read the book a second time and dug a little deeper. Kingston has a unique approach in dealing with clutter describing how energy can become stuck and that stagnation can affect you physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I enjoyed a boost of energy each time I read the book and did the work. In a few more years, I may read it once again!
Lighter Living: Declutter. Organize. Simplify.
CHERRY HILLS WALKOUT RANCH
$2,995,000
NEW LISTINGS o THE PINNACLE IN CASTLE PINES NORTH: MAIN FLOOR MASTER AND THEATRE, SOARING RUSTIC BEAMED CEILINGS, PHENOMENAL WATERFALLS. EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY. $1,500,000.
o 5055 S. HOLLY CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE Best Buy. $2,350,000. With $100,000 allowance for additional garages. SOLD. o RANCH NO MAINTENANCE VILLA IN THE MEADOWS AT CASTLE ROCK $515,000 SOLD. o 467 ADAMS ST. CHERRY CREEK NORTH - $2,195,000 SOLD.
Breathing Room: Open Your Heart by Decluttering Your Home
o THE PRESERVE Exceptional executive home. $3,000,000. SOLD. o THE PRESERVE ON OPEN SPACE. 4810 PERRY PARKWAY $1,750,000. SOLD.
o SUNDANCE HILLS. BEAUTIFUL REMODEL $785,000 SOLD. o OBSERVATORY PARK $2,000,000 SOLD.
o 37 CHARLOU IN CHERRY HILLS - $1,700,000 SOLD.
o 5816 S. VILLAGE WAY - $2,560,000 SOLD.
o 19 S. FRANKLIN CIRCLE - $3,550,000 SOLD. o ONE OF A KIND ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE.RANCH LIVING GREENWOOD VILLAGE $1,680,000 SOLD. o 5775 S FOREST ST, THE PRESERVE. $1,739,000 SOLD. o LANDMARK 11TH FLOOR PENTHOUSE $1,040,000 SOLD.
NEW AND COMING
o CHERRY HILLS PERFECTION: 5000 S ALBION ST. Exquisite walkout ranch backing to the Highline Canal. Superb attention to detail, spacious, flowing floorplan. $2,995,000. o ONE CHERRY LANE, GREENWOOD VILLAGE’S PREMIER LOW MAINTENANCE COMMUNITY. COMPLETELY REDONE FROM TRADITIONAL TO TRANSITIONAL. THE BEST IN RANCH LIVING. $1,975,000. COMING IN 2021 o THE HILLS AT CHERRY CREEK: $900,0000, COMING IN 2021 SOLD o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
CHERRY CREEK NORTH $1,595,000 SOLD. BONNIE BRAE CONTEMPORARY - $1,100,000 SOLD. LAKEVIEW AT THE HILLS - $1,050,000 SOLD. 47 CHERRY HILLS FARM. Spectacular remodel. Main Floor Master, Transitional Styling. $2,395,000 SOLD. POLO CLUB NORTH $1,000,000 SOLD. ON THE HIGHLINE CANAL- SOLD - $2,175,000. THE PRESERVE - $1,940,000 SOLD. 1215 S YORK, WASHINGTON PARK - $980,000 SOLD. 4945 S GAYLORD CHERRY HILLS FARM WEST - $2,190,000 SOLD. THE PRESERVE 5402 PRESERVE PKWY N. - $1,699,000. SOLD. PENTHOUSE DENVER ART MUSEUM - $1,150,000 SOLD. THE PRESERVE 5801 S. BIRCH CT. $1,725,000 SOLD. 75 GLENMOOR - $3,550,000 SOLD 2475 S COLUMBINE $1,900,000 37 CHARLOU $1700,000 5816 VILLAGE WAY $2,560,000 19 S FRANKLIN $3,550,000
SOLD 8 CHURCHILL
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The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want under Everything You Own
Let’s start with a good beginner book, by Joshua Becker published in 2016. You may have no interest in minimalism, but Becker does an excellent job describing the benefits of it. He also breaks down consumerism for each generation and discusses the tools of marketers. I appreciated his thoughts on a better way to get rid of your stuff by giving it to charities in need. Becker has written multiple books on this subject including Clutter Free with Kids. He is an active blogger and excellent guide to reducing your stuff.
Inheriting Clutter: How to Calm the Chaos your Parents Leave Behind In 2020, author Julie Hall renamed her previous book entitled Boomer Burden: Dealing with
This book was published in 2014 by Lauren Rosenfeld and Melva Green. The first part is about getting clear on the intention of decluttering each room. I appreciate that each chapter offers a blessing for that room as well. The second part of the book dives into spiritual decluttering: heart, mental and emotional clutter, relationships, roles and responsibilities. I particularly love the concept of passing your clutter through the three gates of meaning: “Is it true to my intentions? Do I use it? Is it kind to my heart and spirit?” I enjoyed the gentle nature of this book.
Clear Your Clutter with Feng Shui
The revised and updated edition of this book came out in 2016 by Karen Kingston. I rarely read books twice, but this book is on my short, repeat-worthy list. It had a large impact on my life the first
KOELBEL LIBRARY
This is my own book, and it was published in 2019. I share my own decluttering and downsizing journey. Lighter Living explains why you might want to simplify your home and your life. It shows you how to declutter and then organize what you keep. Finally, you are given a vision for lifelong decluttering and how it can lead to well-being and peace of mind. “Lighter Living is an inspirational self-help book full of humble advice for clearing clutter so that you can better see what truly matters.” --Foreword Clarion Reviewsa
To learn more about Lisa and her books, visit her website, www.LisaJShultz.com. To read more book reviews, follow her on Goodreads, www.goodreads.com/ LisaJShultz. Lisa loves speaking to groups, and she would be happy attend your book club. Call her at 303-881-9338.
Peace, solitude, explore your imagination, be inspired. Learn something new and help limit computer game use. Just a few reasons to instill the love of reading! Park & Pickup Services Only • Changed Hours • https://arapahoelibraries.org/locations/ko
January 7, 2021 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11
of a knowledgeable advisor, such as an attorney, financial planner, or CPA to help structure the gift. Planned gifts can be made with cash, but many planned gifts are made by donating assets, such as stocks, real estate, insurance or business interests. Planned gifts can provide valuable tax benefits and/or lifetime income for donors, spouses, or other loved ones. The most frequently made planned gifts are bequests to charities, made through Wills. Other popular planned gifts include charitable trusts and charitable gift annuities. What are the four key medical/estate plan documents you need now? Many of my clients have asked what are the critical documents needed, particularly in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply being married does not give you the legal right to gain access to your spouse’s medical records or make medical decisions on your spouse’s behalf, even in an emergency. To avoid this problem and to help others care for you and to achieve your overall estate planning goals, the following documents create an effective medical/ estate plan package: 1. Healthcare Power of Attor-
ney; 2. General Financial Power of Attorney; 3. Advanced Directive for Medical/Surgical Treatment (“Living Will”); and 4. Will (or a Will with a Trust). Careful medical/estate planning should include preparation and signing of these documents, to accomplish your goals and protect you, both during your lifetime, and at the time of passing. The Power of Attorney documents allow you to designate those agents whom you authorize to help you on your behalf during your lifetime, and the Will/ Trust documents allow you to nominate others to help with your estate after your passing, as well as to identify the beneficiaries and the distributions
Is Social Security income taxable?
payments to the IRS, or you can choose to have it automatically withheld from your benefits. To have it withheld, you’ll need to complete IRS Form W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request (IRS.gov/pub/irs-pdf/ fw4v.pdf), and file it with your local Social Security office. You can choose to have 7 percent, 10 percent, 12 percent or 22 percent of your total benefit payment withheld. If you subsequently decide you don’t want the taxes withheld, you can file another W-4V to stop the withholding. If you have additional
BY DONALD PETERSON Dear Readers, This week’s column is on updates under the CARES Act regarding planned gifts/philanthropy. To encourage support for nonprofit charities in 2020, Congress included enhanced charitable incentives in the CARES Act, The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Those incentives have just been extended by Congress to include both 2020 and 2021. For those taxpayers who itemize, the CARES Act lifts the cap for cash contributions to qualified public charities, increasing it from 60% to 100% of adjusted gross income (AGI) for 2020 (and now for 2021). Any excess contributions can be carried over for the next five years. For corporations, the law raised the annual limit from 10% to 25% of taxable income.
Dear Savvy Senior, I understand that a portion of my Social Security benefits may be taxable when I retire. Can you tell me how to calculate this? Ready to Retire
Dear Ready, Whether or not you’ll be required to pay federal income tax on your Social Security benefits will depend on your income and filing status. About 35 percent of Social Security recipients have total incomes high enough to trigger federal income tax on their benefits. To figure out if your benefits will be taxable, you’ll need to add up all of your “provisional income,” which includes wages, taxable and non-taxable interest, dividends, pensions and taxable retirement-plan distributions, self-employment, and other taxable income, plus half your annual Social Security benefits, minus certain deductions used in figuring your adjusted gross income.
How to Calculate
To help you with the calculations, get a copy of IRS Publication 915 “Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits,” which provides detailed instructions and worksheets. You can download it at IRS.gov/pub/ irs-pdf/p915.pdf or call the IRS at 800-829-3676 and ask
There are also provisions for those who do not itemize deductions and take the standard deduction. The original CARES Act included a universal charitable deduction of $300 for cash contributions. The new stimulus package expands the deduction to $300 for single filers and $600 for married couples, filing jointly. Philanthropy is powerful, in that it helps others and gives a “warm glow” from doing something good for someone else. You feel it every time you give money to a cause you believe in, but it radiates just as strongly when you volunteer at a community event, participate in a service club, take food to a sick neighbor, or help out a friend. This feeling is an expression of your concern for others rather than yourself, of wanting to help fill a need, solve a problem, or make life better for someone else. Everyone will have a different philosophy and follow his or her own heart or head, or both. What are planned gifts? Planned gifts include a variety of charitable giving methods that allow donors to express their personal values by integrating charitable, family and financial goals. Making a planned, charitable gift usually requires the assistance
them to mail you a free significantly raises copy. your gross income After you do the calcan bump the proculations, the IRS says portion of your Sothat if you’re single and cial Security benefits your total income from subject to taxes. all of the listed sources is: BY JIM MILLER How to File • Less than $25,000, If you find that your Social Security part of your Social Security will not be subject to federbenefits will be taxable, you’ll al income tax. need to file using Form 1040 • Between $25,000 and or Form 1040-SR. You also $34,000, up to 50 percent need to know that if you do of your Social Security owe taxes, you’ll need to benefits will be taxed at make quarterly estimated tax your regular income-tax rate. • More than $34,000, up to 85 percent of your benefits will be taxed. • If you’re married and filing jointly and the total from all sources is: • Less than $32,000, your Social Security won’t be taxed. • Between $32,000 and $44,000, up to 50 percent of your Social Security benefits will be taxed. • More than $44,000, up to 85 percent of your benefits will be taxed. • If you’re married and file a separate return, you probably will pay taxes on your benefits. To limit potential taxes on your benefits, you’ll need to be cautious when taking distributions from retirement accounts or other sources. In addition to triggering ordinary income tax, a distribution that
SAVVYSENIOR
ABOU
THE LAW
to them, to accomplish your estate planning goals. Selected information in this column has been taken with permission by Continuing Legal Education in Colorado, Inc., from the Colorado Senior Law Handbook, 2020 Edition (Chapter 18: Philanthropy and Planned Giving, Rikke M. Liska, Esq. and Mark D. Masters, Esq.), which is a copyrighted publication and may be accessed and downloaded for free at: www.cobar.org/Forthe-Public/Senior-Law-Handbook. As a courtesy, there is no charge for my initial consultation with clients. I have served seniors and their families for over 43 years regarding their medical and estate planning needs.
A 30% REDUCTION ON ESTATE PLAN DOCUMENTS IS CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED DUE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS! FOR A FREE TELEPHONE OR VIDEO CONSULTATION, PLEASE CALL: Donald Glenn Peterson, Esq. Don Peterson Law Firm 4100 E. Mississippi Avenue, Suite 410 Denver, CO 80246
Phone: (303) 758-0999 E-Mail: Donald@PetersonLaw.co Website: www.donpetersonlawfirm.com questions on taxable Social Security benefits call the IRS help line at 800-829-1040.
State Taxation
In addition to the federal government, 13 states – Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia – tax Social Security benefits to some extent too. If you live in one of these states, check with your state tax agency for details. For links to state tax agencies see Tax Admin.org/state-tax-agencies.
PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
Level Orange - Local restaurants can open Continued from page 3
Late in the evening of January 4, CDPHE released this additional information about how Governor Polis’ move of all Level Red counties to Level Orange would intersect with the 5-Star Program: “1) Counties that moved from the Red to Orange levels this week will need to maintain a 7-day Orange Level average incidence trend (no more than 350 new cases daily per 100,000 population) in order to operate under Yellow Level restrictions. Counties must engage in a consultation process with CDPHE, which may entail moving to a more restrictive level, when they are out of compliance with any of the metrics for more than seven days. 2) 5-Star certified businesses currently in Orange Level counties may be eligible for less restrictive capacity limits outlined in Yellow Level, after engaging in a consultation and approval process with their local public health agency. 3) Authorized gyms/recreation in each level to operate at the same capacity as restaurants.” Fmiklin.villager@gmail.com
This chart shows the breakdown of deaths related to age groups in Colorado.
This chart from CDPHE shows how the number of patients hospitalized with confirmed cases of COVID-19 has dropped steadily from 1,847 on December 1 to 918 on January 2.
Creek football senior Gunnar Helm has a long pedigree BY FREDA MIKLIN GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER
After weighing full-ride-plusstipend football scholarship offers from 29 different colleges this year, Cherry Creek High School (Creek) tight end Gunnar Helm chose the University of Texas in Austin (UT) as the place he will get a college education and play football. After graduating early from Creek, Gunnar will start
college and the football program in Austin this month. We asked Gunnar’s dad, Blake Helm, a 1984 Creek grad, how Gunnar chose UT. He told The Villager, “It was a tough year because no official school visits were allowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At one point, it was down to Wisconsin, Iowa, Georgia and LSU (Louisiana State University). We went to see some of those schools, even though we couldn’t meet with the coaches. Gunnar was seriously
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Gunnar Helm holds up the state championship banner after Creek’s win in Pueblo on December 5.
considering Wisconsin, but he always had an affinity for Texas football. He used to watch the TV series, ‘Friday Night Lights.’ We met with UT Coach Tom Herman on a virtual visit and the program seemed to be a really good fit for Gunnar’s position as a tight end. He also liked that UT has a strong alumni program. Even though the football program has had its struggles recently, UT is putting $220 million into their stadium and their program. Gunnar plans to study business and UT has one of the top business schools in the country. After meeting Coach Herman virtually and flying down and visiting the campus, Gunnar knew it was the right place for him. The fact that he can start classes in January and play spring ball to get used to the system there is a real plus.” Football plays a big part in Helm family life. Both of Gunnar’s grandfathers had success on the gridiron. His maternal grandfather, Bernie Elsner, was a starting lineman for the University of Illinois and played on a team that won the Rose Bowl. His paternal grandfather Roger was an all-state tight end in Iowa, then played at the University of Iowa. Gunnar’s dad Blake was an outside linebacker at Creek when the school
Continued on page 13
January 7, 2021 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13
Gunnar Helm Continued from page 12
won back-to-back state championships in 1982 and 1983. Like his dad, Gunnar played in back-to-back consecutive state championships at Creek in 2019 and 2020. (Blake Helm told The Villager that he and Gunnar share the distinction of being a father and son that played on two consecutive state championship teams at Creek with another familiar family— Creek head wrestling coach Mike Luhring and his son Austin). Gunnar’s uncle, Blake’s brother Corey Helm, Creek 1981, played tight end and defensive end and was all-state, as was his dad Roger. Corey also played in Creek’s
Gunnar and dad Blake Helm pictured at senior night for Cherry Creek football on Nov. 6 at Stutler Bowl.
first-ever state championship game, then went on to Colorado State University where he played outside linebacker all four years. In his senior year, Corey was captain of the defense and got eight sacks. Corey’s son Parker, Creek 2014, also played the position of end on the team when he was in high school.
Business Chat – Tax Time Machine (Part 2) In our last episode we overviewed Cost Segregation, which for commercial and multi-family property owners, investors, and leaseholders can be highly effective in accelerating depreciation and offsetting tax liabilities and where eligible, may recover back taxes as far as five taxable years in arrears (aka Time Machine effect). For this episode, we will discuss another specialized tax credit incentive strategy which when eligible, can offset, if not totally eliminate tax liabilities up to three Steve Estle years historically. But first, I want to share with you a recent passion of mine: online chess. Yep - I’m absolutely hooked on chess.com (if ever like to play my username is “colosteve”). So, I’ve quickly discovered I’m not so great at it (I know some friends with rankings 1000 points higher than mine - I’m struggling to just stay in the ~600 range). I’ve only been doing this for a couple of months and in chess, of course, once the move is made you can never take it back. Yet, oh my, there have been countless times when I needed a “redo” option – (oops there went my queen)… For any chess lovers or wannabes like me, I also highly recommend the Netflix series “Queen’s Gambit” if you haven’t seen it yet – great story. So what are your views and experiences with chess – do you play? Wishing like me for that “redo” option? So, thankfully, unlike chess, in taxes, the IRS gives us a limited “do over” option – via amended returns and it is perfectly legit. So, wondering if there are other specialized tax incentives where your business can apply our “time machine” strategy? Absolutely… In the tax code, for qualifying businesses – there is a specialized payroll based Research and Experimentation (R&D) tax credit that incentivizes businesses performing innovative and experimental activities. Industries such as manufacturing, software development, architecture, engineering, etc. routinely qualify but many others can as
well – especially if performing “custom” build to suit activities for clients and/or suppliers. Important to note: unlike accelerated depreciation, this is a tax credit, not a deduction – deductions serve only to offset / lower your taxable income, whereas tax credits directly reduce your bottom line tax liabilities dollar for dollar. In 2019, an estimated $18 billion in R&D credits were reported by businesses across a broad range of different industries. When eligible, your business can qualify for this highly beneficial credit not just once, but on an annual basis – on average our analysis shows this credit to equal approximately 5% of your annual payroll (for $1M payroll, average is $5K credit). Of course, every business is different. And, if not already pursuing, generally, you can recover retroactively these credits up to three prior tax years. Given limited space and due to technical nature of this topic – here is one of our websites where you can learn much more about R&D tax credits: https://gmgsavings.com/services/rd-tax-credit/... So, there you have it, another potentially lucrative tax time travel strategy… Next time around, if possible, given ample guidance, I’d like to cover the recently enacted Dec. 21st Coronavirus Relief legislation and how it enhances and expands business eligibility for the Covid Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC). Othewise, we’ll discuss hiring incentive tax credits worth up $9600 per qualified hire. Here’s wishing each of my readers out there a joyous and wonderful holidays and prosperous and peaceful 2021 - from me and my family to you, your family, and friends. So, if you’re wondering if you’ve left any money on the table in your business, please reach out for a no obligation consultation via my contact details below or checkout: https://bit.ly/ BizCashflowImprove. And oh yeah - how about that game of chess?
Even Gunnar’s three sisters are athletes. Older sister Morgan, now at Alabama, won three state championships with Creek Poms. Oldest sister Madison was a nationally ranked swimmer and younger sister Emerson, a high school sophomore, plays lacrosse and field hockey at Creek. Proud grandfather Roger Helm organized and started the Cherry Creek Touchdown Club, which is still the football team booster club today. Roger told The Villager that there hadn’t been a booster club for a few years because someone from the former one had stolen the club’s money. Then, in 1979, Fred Tesone, Creek’s celebrated 27-year coach who won three state championships, called him and asked if he would consider organizing a
Steve Estle Stryde Business Solutions Advisor 303-604-0925 (O) 303-817-9954 (C) www.cashflow-grow.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/ steveestle/steve@cashflow -grow.com
new booster club. Roger told The Villager, “I called a few of the dads and invited them to my house to talk about it. They were all enthusiastic about helping the team. We decided to create a program book with ads in it to raise money. We went to neighborhood businesses and put together the first program. We got an artist to create a cover with a football player running with the ball, then printed all the copies at the school the night before the first football game of the season. We sold them at every game,
REFINED&CONSIGN
inserting new roster pages each week. We only charged $1 for the programs, but we made a chunk of money that allowed us to help upgrade the weight room with new equipment. One year we were able to help pay part of the cost of new jerseys. We also helped with meals for the team on road trips.” Fmiklin.villager@gmail.com (Editor’s note: Staff Writer Freda Miklin was the treasurer of the Cherry Creek Touchdown Club from 2010 to 2014.)
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PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
LEGALS
—Continued from previous page— FIRST PLACE Best Public Notice Section
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ARAPAHOE COUNTY ARAPAHOE COUNTY REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL RFP-21-02 CM/GC SERVICES FOR THE ARAPAHOE COUNTY CORONER’S OFFICE BODY COOLER EXPANSION Notice is hereby given that the Arapahoe County Purchasing Division will be accepting proposals to obtain CM/GC services, for the Arapahoe County Coroner’s Office Body Cooler Expansion project located at 13101 E. Broncos Parkway, Centennial, CO 80112. A mandatory pre proposal conference will be held on January 20, 2021 at 3:00 p.m., local time, at the Arapahoe County Sheriff/ Coroner Facility, 13101 E. Broncos Parkway, Centennial, CO 80112. We will meet in the Sheriff’s Office Main Entrance Lobby. This is a secure facility, and all attendees will be required to pass through security. Contractors must attend this mandatory meeting to become familiar with specifications and to qualify to respond to this solicitation. Contractors are required to RSVP to attend, due to social distancing guidelines. Please email the Purchasing Agent, no later than 4:30 p.m., local time, on January 18, 2021. The County will adhere to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) social distancing guidelines and County approved policies which at this time require that you bring a face covering to this meeting. Due to social distancing guidelines the County requests that contractors limit their subcontractors attending this meeting to 2 additional attendees: 1 Mechanical tradesman and 1 Electrical tradesman – total of 3 per company. All Arapahoe County solicitations can be obtained from the County’s website. The Request For Proposal (RFP-21-02) document can be
obtained by going to the Arapahoe County website www.arapahoegov. com, then go to the Finance Department, and under the Finance Department select Purchasing then go to the Quick Link for the Rocky Mountain ePurchasing website. Electronic submissions will be accepted online via Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing Systems (RMEPS), www.bidnetdirect.com/colorado.
mits, a public hearing will be held; at which, all interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard concerning the abovedescribed SDPZ20-002, Millstone at Columbine, Specific Development Plan with Zoning. The public hearing is scheduled for the East Hearing Room, 5334 S Prince St., Littleton Colorado 80120, however, please note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 emergency the hearing will be conducted through remote access – please check the weekly public meeting agenda at https:// www.arapahoegov.com/AgendaCenter/Board-of-County-Commissioners-1 for specific information on how to attend and participate. The agenda will typically be posted by the Friday afternoon preceding the hearing.
Submittals must be received, electronically, no later than 2:00 p.m. local time on February 04, 2021. The County reserves the right to waive any or all informalities or irregularities and to reject any or all submittals. Joan Lopez, Clerk to the Board Published in The Villager Published: January 7, 2021 Legal # 10067 ___________________________ ARAPAHOE COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CASE NO SDPZ20-002, MILLSTONE AT COLUMBINE / SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN WITH ZONING
The related Preliminary Plat, Case No. PP19-003, Millstone at Columbine, will be heard on the consent agenda at the same meeting. More information about this proposal is available at the offices of the Arapahoe County Public Works and Development Department, Planning Division, 6924 S. Lima St., Centennial, CO 80112 (by appointment only) or by calling 720-874-6650 or by emailing planning@arapahoegov.com during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday).
PROPOSAL: The applicant, LAI Design Group, LLC, on behalf of the property owner, The Francis Company, LLC, is proposing a Specific Development Plan with Zoning (SDPZ) to allow for construction of 22 single-family detached units on 5.65 acres located at 5977 South Platte Canyon Road, which would result in a density of approximately 3.89 dwellings per acre. The applicant is proposing approximately 30% open space, one access private drive from South Platte Canyon Road, landscaping and lighting. The proposed development will utilize the existing curb cut/driveway for the Columbine Trail parking lot and is proposing a new and improved parking lot for the Columbine Trail in ensure public access to the trail is maintained.
Joan Lopez, Clerk to the Board Published in The Villager Published: January 7, 2021 Legal # 10068 ___________________________
GREENWOOD VILLAGE A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE ORDINANCE NO. 01 SERIES OF 2021 INTRODUCED BY: COUNCILMEMBER JOHNSTON
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 26, 2021, at 9:30 A.M., or as soon thereafter as the calendar of the Arapahoe County Board of County Commission per-
AN ORDINANCE DISSOLVING THE GREENWOOD VILLAGE HOSPITALITY BUSINESS
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IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT WHEREAS, the Greenwood Village Hospitality Business Improvement District (“District”) was created by the Greenwood Village City Council pursuant to Colorado law by the passage of Ordinance No. 9, Series 2014, for the purpose of financing the cost of construction and maintenance of public infrastructure associated with the development of a hotel; and WHEREAS, the hotel project was never developed, and no debt was issued by the District; and WHEREAS, notice was provided of the public hearing on this ordinance January 4, 2021 in accordance with C.R.S. 31-251206; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the District has not filed an operating plan and budget as required by section §31-25-1211, C.R.S. for two years, and no work has been done by the District and no debt incurred. WHEREAS, hearing no protests against or objections to the dissolution of the District, the Greenwood City Council finds that it is in the best interest of all concerned to dissolve the District. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF GREENWOOD VILLAGE, COLORADO: 1. The Greenwood Village Hospitality Business Improvement District is hereby dissolved. 2. A certified copy of this ordinance shall be filed in the office of the Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder, upon which filing the dissolution shall be complete. INTRODUCED AND APPROVED ON FIRST READING ON THE 4TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2021, AND ORDERED PUBLISHED IN THE VILLAGER. /s/ George E. Lantz, Mayor ATTEST: /s/ Susan M. Ortiz, MMC City Clerk Published in The Villager Published: January 7, 2021 Legal # 10069 ___________________________ A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE ORDINANCE NO. 02 SERIES OF 2021 INTRODUCED BY: COUNCILMEMBER BARNACLE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 7, ARTICLE 1 OF THE GREENWOOD VILLAGE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING NOTICE OF ABATEMENT FOR NUISANCES
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WHEREAS, the Greenwood Village City Council finds that habitual nuisance code violators are responsible for an excessive and perpetual demand on City resources related to response to complaints; and WHEREAS, the Greenwood Village City Council wishes to alleviate the demand on resources by clarifying that notice and opportunity to cure nuisance code violations is not required in circumstances where a nuisance is committed on the same property for which other similar nuisances have occurred within an eighteen-month period.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GREENWOOD VILLAGE, COLORADO, ORDAINS: Section 1.Section 7-1-60(a) is hereby added to the Greenwood Village Municipal Code to read as follows: Sec. 7-1-60. - Notice of abatement. (a)
Upon discovery of any nuisance, the authorized inspector shall issue a notice of abatement to the owner or occupant of the property, unless the owner or occupant has previously received two prior notices for the same or similar nuisance described in this chapter within the past eighteen (18) months. The notice shall describe the nuisance and order that the nuisance be abated in a specific period of time. The notice shall also state that the owner or occupant of the property may protest the findings of the inspector by filing a written notice of protest with the City Clerk pursuant to Section 7-1110 of this Article. If an owner or occupant has received two prior notices for the same or similar nuisance described in this chapter within the past eighteen (18) months, the authorized inspector may proceed directly to the issuance of a summons and complaint under section 7 -1-20.
Section 2.Effective Date. This ordinance shall take effect six (6) days after publication following final passage. INTRODUCED AND APPROVED ON FIRST READING ON THE 4TH DAY OF JANUARY, 2021, AND ORDERED PUBLISHED IN THE VILLAGER. /s/ George E. Lantz, Mayor ATTEST: /s/ Susan M. Ortiz, MMC, City Clerk Published in The Villager Published: January 7, 2021 Legal # 10070 ___________________________ GREENWOOD VILLAGE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE On the 4th day of January, 2021, the City Council of the City of Greenwood Village, Colorado, adopted on second reading the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO: 18 SERIES OF 2020 INTRODUCED BY: COUNCILMEMBER HILTON AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 43, SERIES OF 1987, ORDINANCE NO. 31, SERIES OF 1996, AND ORDINANCE NO. 22, SERIES OF 2002 TO AMEND THE BOUNDARIES OF THE PERMIT PARKING DISTRICT FOR EAST TUFTS CIRCLE IN THE CITY OF GREENWOOD VILLAGE
Copies of the aforesaid ordinance are available for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk, 6060 South Quebec Street, City of Greenwood Village, Colorado or online at www.greenwoodvillage. com. Published in The Villager Published: January 7, 2021 Legal # 10071 ___________________________ GREENWOOD VILLAGE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE On the 4th day of January, 2021, the City Council of the City of Greenwood Village, Colorado, adopted on second reading the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO:19 SERIES OF 2020 INTRODUCED BY: COUNCILMEMBER BARNACLE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 4-3-30, 4-3-40 and 4-3-50 OF THE GREENWOOD VILLAGE MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO THE TAXATION OF TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES Copies of the aforesaid ordinance are available for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk, 6060 South Quebec Street, City of Greenwood Village, Colorado or online at www.greenwoodvillage. com. Published in The Villager Published: January 7, 2021 Legal # 10072 ___________________________
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Susan Marie Borst, DeceasedCase Number 2020PR31343 All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Arapahoe, County, Colorado or on or before May 7, 2021, or the claims may be forever barred. The original of this document is on file at the law office of Donald Glenn Peterson /s/. Donald Glenn Peterson Donald Glenn Peterson Attorney for Personal Representative 4100 E. Mississippi Avenue, Suite 410 Denver, CO 80246 Telephone: (303) 758-0999 Published in The Villager First Publication: January 7, 2021 Last Publication: January 21, 2021 Legal # 10073 ___________________________
MISCELLANOUS PUBLIC NOTICE The 2020 annual financial report for the Cibrowski Family Foundation is available for Public Inspection during regular business hours from today’s date through July 31, 2021 at the Office of Deon E Fitch, Chairman, Cibrowski Family Foundation, 6059 S Quebec Street, Suite 202, Englewood, CO 80111. 303-740-9497, 1-720-8153426 (Fax). Published in The Villager Published: January 7, 2021 Legal # 10074
— End of Legals —
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— Continued to next page —
Autos
January 7, 2021 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15
2020 Ford Ranger lights up the highway
and the latest safety features that include stop-tech and cross-traffic alerts. The truck has a fully boxed steel frame with a bedliner and optional trailer tow package. With Colorado weather and the need to always be hauling “stuff” there are many advantages of purchasing a versatile all-wheel drive pickup truck. The Ranger can haul the family, ranch hands, and soccer team through all kinds of weather with five-passenger capacity and a large truck bed for cargo. City or country pickup trucks have become very popular and have all the safety and technical features oFord states, “Go Further” and they mean it.
Ford trucks come in many sizes and prices. The Ranger series starts around $26,000 and ranges upwards with optional features to $47,715. For example, an off-road package at $1,295 and black appear-
ance package at $1,995. The standard eco-boost engine and ten-speed transmission comes with a 5-year/60,000 miles powertrain warranty. The leather seats can handle five passengers in the extended
super crew model. The Ranger is now in its third year of service and enjoys good sales. The pickup has a five-star frontal and side crash safety rating score. The drive is exciting with the 270-power engine and tenspeed transmission. This Ranger is no slouch on the freeway and accelerates rapidly from the freeway entry ramp with a fine sounding engine growl. Heated leather bucket seats have lumbar features along with a leather wrapped shift knob and steering wheel. Nice on cold mornings, but surprisingly no heated steering wheel. This Lariat model features a ten-speaker sound system
2020 BMW X3 xDrive30e has elegant features
and my drive was spent in the “Sport” mode with the normal and individual selections. The console with the shift knob is attractive and shifting is easy with steering wheel paddles. The trunk area has a large 62.7” of cargo space that can be enlarged with the 40/20/40 rear seat adjustment. Covering the elegant design is a panoramic moonroof. LED lights provide excellent lighting for nighttime driving. This BMW model has a manufacturer’s suggested list price of $64,025 with an “Executive Package” of special options. The dashboard has a long
list of features from heated mirrors, seats and steering wheel. BMWs are about sport’s performance in classic style and quality. The acceleration of the sports model is exciting along with the
interior beauty of this sedan. This is a very versatile allwheel drive sedan that suits, a business executive along with being a safe and secure family sedan with pride and enjoyment for years.
Start the New Year in a Lexus RX 450h F-Sport
the usual five-star overall safety rating. The vehicle has ten-airbags and the complete Lexus Safety System. New features include six UBS ports and a wireless phone charge pad. The F-Sport rides on 20” wheels with adaptable suspension. The ride is soft and comfortable with heated and ventilated front seats. You can chat with “Alexa” and use “Car Play” during the drive while your smart phone charges in the center console pad. This is a luxury car with a sport’s car flare, and versatile for Colorado winters with heated windshield wipers and even mudguards as an option. Treat yourself to the best.
BY H. THROTTLE AUTOMOTIVE COLUMNIST
The 2020 bright “race red” Ranger Lariat arrived right before Christmas to brighten up the neighborhood and haul some holiday packages. This year-end 2020 Ranger is loaded with options and enjoys the 2.3L eco-boost engine that delivers 270 horsepower with 26 mpg. on the highway. Farmers across America will be visiting local Ford dealers with wheat prices over $6 and soybeans reaching an astonishing $13 a bushel. Farm prices have been rising across America and that bodes well for Ford dealers and rural communities.
BY H. THROTTLE AUTOMOTIVE COLUMNIST
BMWs are described as “The Ultimate Driving Experience.” They are treasured by owners of past and present “Beamers.” They are built to last for decades and many models are prized possessions with multiple mileage. The 2020 BMW X3 Drive 30e was the drive of the week and lived up to the long-lasting reputation. The golden leather seats greeted the driving expe-
A new 2021 Lexus RX 450h F-Sport model is a wonderful way to start a new year and the featured test drive this week. The Lexus motto is “Experience Amazing,” and these cars come fully equipped with every new technical and safety feature.
rience. BMWs have solid frames and feel strong on the highway. The exterior a “Dark Graphite Metallic” finish and the interior “Cognac Vernasca” leather with contrast stitching. The cabin is trimming with “Fineline Cave Matte” wood trim. This luxury model has a hybrid feature but a powerful 4-cylinder 248 hp. engine with an option for a larger 288 horsepower six-cylinder engine in various models. Three modes are featured,
The all-wheel drive F-Sport has a hefty 3.5L engine with 308 hp linked to a hybrid drive variable transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters. There are three drive modes, EV, normal and sport, and the car is rated at 30 mpg overall,
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are attractive and include a navigation system and deluxe Mark/Levinson 15 speaker premium audio system for $3,365. The F-Sport has achieved a perfect five-star rating for side crashes and is too new for further safety scores. But, loaded with a long list of safety features, will no doubt achieve
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impressive fuel mileage for a larger luxury sedan. The “Atomic Silver” painted Lexus has final assembly in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada and a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $53,250. A lengthy menu of options takes the test drive model price to $62,470. Many of the options
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EVENTS Greater Englewood Chamber - Idea Lab 101
January 12. This innovative and creative program features Chamber members who share their expertise in presentations and discussions over the lunch hour. Join us to review the new laws and regulations that will affect all employers in Colorado. 12:00pm – 1:00pm. Non-members $10. 3501 S. Broadway, Suite 2. For information call 303-789-4473
Dillon Ice Castles
December 19 – February 28. Ice Castles is an awe-inspiring, mustsee winter phenomenon that brings
fairytales to life. The Ice Castles are built entirely by hand using hundreds of thousands of icicles placed by professional artists. The castles include breathtaking LED-lit structures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides and fountains. Daily 12 – 9 pm. 120 Buffalo Street, Dillon. Tickets may be available on-site if Ice Castles is not sold out. On-site prices are subject to higher rates. For guaranteed entry and the lowest price, buy tickets online at icecastles.com/Colorado. For information call 855-845-7885
NOW OPEN Denver Botanic Gardens The Denver Botanic Gardens 1007
York Street location is open with limited attendance numbers, timed tickets and strict social distancing guidelines. Admissions are capped at 250 people in two-hour increments. Make a reservation online for a specific date at botanicgardens.org. Tickets will not be available onsite. For information call 720-865-3500
Denver Zoo
All tickets must be purchased/ reserved online at DenverZoo.org/Visit. The zoo will limit the number of visitors per day with staggered 15-minute entry windows to limit the number of guests at any one time. A one-way path around the entire campus has been created to allow guests to view a majority of its animal habitats and gardens. All guests ages 3 and over will be required to wear face masks. For further information call 720-337-1644
PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • January 7, 2021
Introduces Keli
our clients can focus on other things. I recently unpacked a client in their new home, and they planned to have custom closets installed. Midway through our work, they canceled the installation and saved nearly $60,000 because they were so pleased with our work, as well as the function and beauty we created with the closets they already had.
What is your background?
Before I started organizing, I served as a school and district administrator for 15 years and studied Montessori. I have a blended family with 4 kids, all teenagers and young adults now. These roles as parent, home manager, school leader and Montessori training have shaped my organizing career in many ways.
What area of the home do most people call for?
How did you get started?
While reading a book about blind spots in our lives, I realized that at my very core I am an organizer! That was my strength in education where I organized curriculum, processes and departments. I know how difficult it can be to manage a career and a home, so I chose to use my knowledge and skills to help others create a home they love and feel relaxed in every day. I joined NAPO (National Association of Productivity and Organizing) and have obtained certifications in Residential Organizing, Productivity and Life Transitions.
What makes a good organizer?
A good organizer starts with your vision and creates order that is meaningful and effective for the style of the client. They will ask the right questions and pay attention to every little detail. And, of course, a good organizer is bonded and insured, discreet and confidential. Good organizers never share photos of their projects without the consent of the client.
Where do you first start when organizing a home?
I start by asking questions and creating a shared vision for the space. Once I understand the intended use and the level of detail desired, my team and I can make the magic happen whether its a kitchen, craft room, closet or the entire home.
Keli Jakel - Owner/Pro Organizer
How long does the process take?
A whole home unpack is typically complete in 3-5 days whereas a kitchen is typically completed in one or two sessions. Some clients have us on retainer to return weekly/monthly for maintenance or decluttering sessions.
What do you feel about minimalism?
People often worry that I will force them to become minimalists. But being organized is not about getting rid of everything! Being organized is about efficiency, stress reduction, saving time and money, and improving your quality of life.
How should someone feel when their home is organized? When your home is organized it is the best of both worlds — optimal productivity eloquently interwoven with peaceful escape to relax and recharge.
What are the benefits of hiring me/my company?
We offer full service organizing, which means we take care of all the details with minimal time or energy from you. We make the decision process as easy and quick as possible so that
Usually clients call for help with their home office, kitchen, master closet or storage area. Many clients start with one area and are so happy with the results that we end up organizing the entire home.
What other services do you offer?
-Unpacking -Downsizing -Inventories -Shopping -Decorating/putting away decorations We unpack and offer other services for people going through life transitions such as a move, divorce, illness or a new job. It’s my mission to mitigate the disruption these events cause and create order and peace for people experiencing them. We can inventory a space and provide a shopping list for what’s missing. Some clients even have us do the shopping!
What makes you different?
My background in Montessori and my intuition shape my strategy. I take pride in meeting clients where they are and creating customized systems and structures for their success. A client once told me that my “secret sauce” is that I see things that most people don’t. I like to think that I simply help my clients see the details and options they didn’t originally see.
Start the organizing process with Keli!
organizedbykeli.com referrals provided
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