OBITUARY OF A GRAND WOMAN: Wife, mother, companion, faithcentered, and champion of women’s rights in the workplace
On February 3, 2025, Wanda passed away at the age of 87 in Golden, CO, of complications from multiple fragilities.
Wanda was born in Lampasas, Texas. She earned a degree in business and finance with honors from the University of Texas and subsequently pursued a Doctor of Jurisprudence at the School of Law. After graduating, Wanda scored the third highest score on the Texas State Bar exam. She continued to accumulate professional recognition. As a plaintiff’s attorney she never lost a case. She was subsequently admitted to the Texas and Colorado bars, as well as the U.S. District Courts, U.S. Court of Appeals, and both the Colorado and U.S. Supreme Courts. Wanda was an attorney-adviser for the Accounting and Finance Center at Lowry Air Force Base. Her commitment for more than eleven years was to help women become achievers. The Earl Kintner Distinguished Service Award, the nation’s highest honor for a Federal Bar Association attorney, honored her. In addition, Wanda was selected by the Federal Bar Association to be part of a special fact-finding delegation to China, the USSR, and Finland. Wanda received special letters of commendation from numerous commanders for whom she worked, including an Air Force Special Achievement award. She was cited numer-
ous times in Who’s Who of American Women, Who’s Who in the World, Who’s Who in American Law, and Who’s Who in Society. Wanda was the recipient of the CARE International Humanitarian Award for the Western United States. She was president of the Colorado Business Women’s Association and their Woman of the Year. Recently, she was on the Board of Directors for the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra.
Her survivors include her husband Larry Allen of Golden, Russell Allen and his wife and son from Santa Fe, NM, as well as her son Greg Fulcher and his wife from Guam. Preceding her in death was her former husband, Larry Fanning, a well-known artist of animals of the southwest and Native Americans.
The service will be a small private ceremony and interment in March, followed by a gathering for a Celebration of Life for Wanda at her church when the weather is warmer.
Memorial contributions may be made in the name of Wanda Rose Allen to the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, Wheatridge, Colorado.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Foothills Cremation and Funeral Service - Golden on Feb. 18, 2025
South Suburban Earns National Recognition for Budget
The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has recognized South Suburban’s 2025 budget with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. This national recognition reflects South Suburban’s continued commitment to the highest standards of governmental budgeting.
In order to receive the award, the District had to satisfy nationally-recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. These guidelines are designed to assess how well an entity’s budget serves as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide and tool for communication.
The organization has earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for 16 consecutive years, and this year the budget received special recognition for performance measures.
South Suburban Executive Director Rob Hanna Resigns
South Sub urban Park and Recre ation District announces the resignation of Executive Director Rob Hanna. Hanna submitted his resignation to the South Suburban Board of Directors during a special meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, stating that he would be stepping away due to health reasons.
The Board of Directors extends its appreciation to Hanna for his years of service and contributions. South Suburban has begun the process of identifying new leadership.
South Suburban remains committed to serving our community through the stewardship of parks and recreation services, and looks forward to building upon our strong foundation.
The Art of Collaboration
The COVID epidemic reshaped the social norm of remote work. Some solo operators continue to work from home, and it suits them. However, larger businesses with multiple employees thrive when collegial relationships are strong. Most CEOs value a healthy corporate culture where teammates get along and care about one another. Companies depend on collaboration and working together toward common goals. For companies to succeed, teams must be purposeful and intentional, staying focused to meet achievable goals within the time frame set by the company’s leadership. This principle also applies to romantic relationships. Workplace or romantic
partner goals are not met, when workloads are uneven when someone on the team fails to contribute when participation is one-sided. or when power dynamics and attention-seeking behaviors emerge.
Many companies authorize large budget expenditures to develop, improve, or maintain workplace relationships because they recognize the direct impact this has on turnover rates, productivity, and overall business success.
Some organizations invest thousands of dollars in outside consultants to enhance coworker relationships and increase collaboration and teamwork.
Romantic relationships can benefit from similar ex-
pertise. Although romantic and corporate relationships differ significantly, they share many common elements. Both involve mutual respect, communication, problem-solving skills, spending quality time together, and relying on one another. Often, both types of relationships are long-term and collaborative in nature.
Consider your romantic relationship as a collaboration. Collaborations are based on working together to accomplish household tasks, manage a budget, pay bills, plan vacations, raise children, set goals, and prepare for the future. Couples might even collaborate in their intimate lives.
Healthy relationships require interdependence rather than independence. They consider each other’s feelings, plans, personality traits, love languages, opinions, goals, motivations, passions, gifts, talents, hopes, and dreams.
Achieving this necessitates careful collaboration and connection. Building this level of collaboration can be challenging and fraught with risks, emotion, or negativity, as it requires trust and reliance on one another.
Romantic partners understand that making a significant purchase together, such as a home or a car, requires high levels of trust. Constructing furniture or building something together demands collaboration. To achieve shared goals, couples must be coordinated and thoroughly engaged. One partner cannot disappoint the other by failing to do their part. Both individuals must be intentional and focused. Unsurprisingly, those with unreliable partners often feel angry and frustrated.
Collaborations can quickly unravel at home or work when workloads are uneven, and one person bears more
responsibility. Collaborations are at risk when contributions are inconsistent or when there is a power imbalance. They cannot succeed without equal participation or engagement, especially if one partner consistently falls short, creating additional work for the other. The team, whether at work or home, will undoubtedly feel frustrated and annoyed. Instances of undermining collaboration at work or home include passive-aggressive behaviors, avoidance of difficult conversations, lack of realistic expectations or boundaries, codependence, and enabling unreliability.
Individuals, teams, and couples should learn how collaborations can flourish or falter at home or work, allowing everyone to enjoy a more harmonious and productive workplace or romantic relationship. joneen@narme.org
Dining With Republicans
in Historic Central City
Come along with me on this past Friday night, to the annual Lincoln Day dinner in Central City. Famous for the gold rush of 1859 and home of the celebrated Central City Opera House. We parked at my favorite bistro, Dostal Alley, one of the oldest bar/ restaurants in Central City. It reminds me of the old TV show Friends Family- owned and operated; Lisa in the kitchen and Steve tending bar and Buddy brewing the best beer in Gilpin County. I toked Mason $5 to park in the Dostal lot close to the Elks Lodge. He told me that he was playing basketball that evening for the home team. Dostal Alley was busy, and the bar was full of customers as we passed through the upstairs and out into the street, almost directly across from the historic Elks Lodge building; one of the oldest organizations in the city, following the Masons who were early gold miners.
BY BOB SWEENEY PUBLISHER
that I presumed were for drinks.
The bar was busy, so I gave the two tickets to Gerri while I found a table. She came back with two Cokes, paying for them with the little red tickets. Later in the evening we discovered that she had purchased the drinks with the raffle tickets. We got a good laugh, and she rushed back to give Don $2 for the drinks and recovered the two door prize tickets. (We didn’t win.)
from losing a spirted three-way race for county commissioner. The CSU graduate and local rancher takes the helm of the Gilpin GOP and Marie moved to the position of sec retary.
Having just recovered from a serious heart attack, I faced a very long and challenging stairway that at least had banisters on both sides. In rehab I had to climb four steps and here there were at least 30. Anyway, no trouble as we excitedly climbed up to the gathering of Gilpin County Republicans.
It was old home week visiting with many friends, some that we’ve known for many years. As the publisher of the local Weekly Register-Call newspaper that we purchased three years ago, we have made friends with many of the community leaders. The WR-C is the oldest weekly paper in the state, started in 1862. Indians burned the wagon train bringing sheets of newsprint, so the paper was printed on wallpaper. Colorado was part of the Kansas Territory until Colorado became a state in 1876. President Grant visited Central City and entered the Teller House on a sidewalk of silver.
At the door we were greeted warmly and given two tickets
We were seated with two of my dearest friends, Gary and Addy King. Gary worked for the prior newspaper owner Arron Storms, so I inherited him in 2022. He is the author of the most popular feature in the WRC, compiling the early day history of the city. The historic newspapers are safely stored in Black Hawk Mayor David Spellman’s office. The old newspapers contain some of the best history of the beginning of the state, detailing mining success and failure. The newspaper is still housed in the historic building constructed by the newspaper owner and eventually sold to the Masonic Lodge. The newspaper is still located on the second floor of the Masonic Lodge with the Masons on the third floor. The building survived the fire of 1874. The Masonic Lodge is one of the most historic in the state and nation with a massive painting of George Washington in a gilded frame with other artistic wall paintings decorating the lodge.
The Lincoln Dinner, of course, honors Abraham Lincoln who freed the slaves and won the Civil War. Lincoln was quoted in the dinner program with the following, “Be sure to put your feet in the right place, then stand firm.”
The dinner began with a welcome from outgoing county commissioner Marie Mornis who also has been county GOP chair.
She introduced the new GOP chairman, Corey Marshall, fresh
Cory introduced the WR-Cs Citizen of the Year, Peter Droege, who was raised in Cen tral City. Peter was an editor of the historic Colorado Gambler back in the early 1990s and has been a stellar officer of the Daniels Fund for many years. He is the driving force to remodel and reopen the famed Belvedere Theatre on Central Main St. The famed theater was the center of miners entertainment for decades.
After some opening remarks he introduced the starlet of the evening, 4th District Congress Representative, Lauren Boebert. The dynamic lady moved from western Colorado’s 3rd District to win the Congressional seat in the 4th District, defeating a handful of leading Republican opponents and a Democrat challenger.
I’ve had the honor to hear her speak several times and she is a powerful orator, she gave a great speech to the assembled crowd, earning a standing ovation. She was terrific and gave me goosebumps with her delivery and powerful message. She spoke of her early life working in a McDonalds restaurant and taking the paycheck home to help her single family mother. Later, owning and operating a gun-toting restaurant in Rifle with staff wearing real pistols. She has risen to considerable stature and power in Washington with more influence in Congress with majority control of legislation. Her speech, without
notes, was an excellent presentation. I think many local conservative Democrats would have agreed with some of her speech.
The evening dinner was delicious with the finest lasagna that I have ever eaten, prepared by Bright Heart Catering, headquartered in Nederland and owned by Trish Groves - www.bright heartcatering.com
The wonderful dinner volunteers were Kathleen Balfour, Brenda Diehl, Debbie Marshall, Karen Midcap, and Marie Mornis who did an excellent job of honoring President Lincoln with the dinner.
Congresswoman Boebert departed to see a new grandchild at her new home in Windsor, Colorado. She is a rising star!
EDITORIAL COLUMNIST Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
Corey Marshall and Lauren Boebert
Attendee Teodoro Dominguez
MONEY
Colorado Department of Revenue Announces Income Tax Processing Is Now Open, Shares Tax Benefits Information Hub to Help Coloradans Save Money
The Colorado Department of Revenue today announced that the state has started processing income tax returns from third-party services and shared a new, online tax benefits hub to help taxpayers save potentially thousands of dollars.
Found at Tax.Colorado. gov/SaveMoney, the new online resource offers tax benefits information in an easy-to-understand format and is organized into four high-impact tax groups:
• Families and individuals
• Seniors and retirees
• Charitable contributions
• Climate-friendly
These four groups house dozens of tax credits and subtractions available to eligible taxpayers. Many of these credits are refundable and can benefit qualifying individuals and businesses, even if they have little or no state tax liability.
“The Department of Revenue is constantly working to serve our customers and ensure that they can access our resources as effectively as possible,” said Heidi Humphreys, Executive Director, Department of Revenue. “We’re proud to offer this new resource.”
The web pages also have a high-level overview of each tax benefit so taxpayers can easily determine their potential eligibility.
The potential savings for families and individuals for tax year 2024 are substantial and include dozens of tax breaks that can save thousands of dollars, such as: Colorado Earned Income Tax Credit - As an example:
• A couple filing jointly with two kids and an adjusted gross income of $50,000 would receive $1,334;
• Colorado Child Tax Credit
- Up to $1,200 per child (for children under 6);
• Family Affordability Tax Credit - Up to $3,200 per child under 6 years old and up to $2,400 per child between the ages of 6 and 16;
• Innovative Motor Vehicle Tax Credit - Up to $7,500; and
• Colorado Promise Higher Education Tax Credit - Varies depending on school; provides eligible students with tuition and fees for their first two years of college.
The tax credits hub is just one part of an effort to spread awareness about savings in the form of tax credits, subtractions, and rebates.
Coloradans can also find information through www. GetAheadColorado.org.
Get Ahead Colorado helps
connect more Coloradans to essential tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit. These tax credits play a pivotal role in improving economic mobility, health, and educational outcomes for Coloradans and their families.
Individual Income Tax Returns
How to file Online - The Taxation Division encourages Taxpayers to file electronically
to cut down on processing time and the potential for errors as well as issues in transit. Taxpayers can currently file with one of the many third-party vendors who offer certified electronic income tax filing products. Income tax processing will be available on Revenue Online in the coming days.
By mail - Instructions about filing State income tax are available on each form.
The tax filing deadline for tax year 2024 is April 15, 2025; however, the state of-
fers an automatic six-month extension for filing as long as payment obligations are satisfied by April 15.
Useful Information
Up-to-date information, including the status of state income tax refunds, is at Tax.Colorado.gov — just click on the “Where’s My Refund” banner.
Taxpayers can call the Taxpayer Helpline by phone at (303) 238-7378, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through
Friday. Please note, translation services are available upon request. To physically visit a Service Center for help, please schedule an appointment. Taxpayers who need low or no-cost help filing state income tax returns should visit Tax.Colorado. gov/Community-Tax-Help for additional resources.
Taxpayers who need help and cannot make it to a Taxpayer Service Center should consider the Department of Revenue’s newest service offering, TAX2GO. TAX 2GO is a new, cost-effective program that brings expert tax advice to Coloradans who do not normally have easy access to in-office Taxpayer services. For more information, visit Tax. Colorado.gov/TAX2GO.
Colorado native, “recovering journalist,” farmer/rancher in Burlington, Mark Hillman enlightened Cherry Creek Republican Women (CCRW) about the reality of Republicans in our state with history and statistics over several decades. Hillman served two terms in the Colorado State Senate including as Majority and Minority Leader receiving numerous honors including Legislator of the Year by the American Legislative Exchange Council and the Republican National Legislators Association. Since 2009, he has served as executive director of the Colorado Civil Justice League, the state’s leading organization in the fight against lawsuit abuse. His commentaries have appeared in numerous publications including the Wall Street Journal, Denver/Colorado Springs Gazette, Denver Post and RealClearPolitics. com.
Hillman reminded the audi ence that in 2000 (Bush era), Colorado was the 19th most red state. By 2004, Colorado had slipped to #24 and hasn’t had a presidential vote win since. “Colorado votes like the coastal states now,” said Mark Hillman. “In Colorado, Kamala Harris beat Trump by double digits.” He pointed out that it is simple math. Republicans start out with a vot ing deficit. In 2024: 26% were Repub licans, 28% were Democrats and 46% were Un affiliated. Looking back at the year 1978 – 58% of the Colo rado vote went to Republican Senator Bill Armstrong and also 58% of the Colorado vote went to Democrat Dick Lamm for Governor. Hillman re called the old Colorado song with lyrics: If I had a wagon, I would go to Colorado. song describes what no longer exists. I miss THAT Colora do!” he concluded.
“If you are 40 or older, Colorado today is very different from the state you grew up in.” - Mark Hillman
Stalwart conservative Mark Hillman shares reality with CCRW
Douglas County Clerk and Recorder Sheri Davis shares insight and convenience with DCRW
Douglas County Republican Women (DCRW) heard from the face of the county with over two million contacts with the public each year, including 500,000 in-person interactions.
Sheri Davis has 25 years of experience and leadership in the Douglas County Office of Clerk and Recorder. She served eight years in the Recording Division, 12 years in the elections Division and five years in the Motor Vehicle Division before being elected in November 2022. She leads a team of just over 100 staff members in creating a culture of excellence through a steadfast commitment to customer service. Davis reviewed the various divisions including elections. Total registered voters in Douglas County = 219, 302. There is a video included – “Life of
the Ballot.” Sheri Davis is a Certified Election Official for the State of Colorado and has achieved national designation as a Certified Elections and Registration Administrator (CERA). Other divisions in clude Recording (primarily real estate) and Motor Vehi cle/Driver License. Passports are renewable online. Davis has served as the Co-Chair for the State DMV Legislative Committee, a member of the State Legislative Committees in Recording, Elections and Motor Vehicle; and a member of the Colorado Secretary of State Rules Committee.
The next DCRW meeting will be Wednesday, March 19 at Lone Tree Golf Club with speaker new Judicial District 23 Deputy DA Darcy Kofol. For information: www.dcrw. org.
Douglas County President Drew
LEFT: Antonette
CCRW President Dorothy Gotlieb and keynote speaker Mark Hillman Photos by Scottie Iverson
Representing Congresswoman Lauren Boebert – Field Representative Annette Budd and Southern Colorado Regional Director McKenna Farley Photos by Scottie Iverson
Founder of Rocky Mountain Voice Heidi Ganahl and President of Colorado Institute for Fair Elections Marc Gitlitz
Principal Dancer Asuka Sasaki will take her final bow at the conclusion of Colorado Ballet’s 2024/2025
After dancing professionally for 22 years, Asuka retires as she celebrates her 20th season with the Company.
“This is certainly a heartfelt and bittersweet moment for our organization,” stated Artistic Director Gil Boggs. “Asuka is a truly special dancer whose 20 years of dedication and exceptional performances are something many dancers only dream of. She has been an incredible leader who always lights up the studios and hallways with a smile. I know myself, the Artistic team, the dancers, and everyone at Colorado Ballet will deeply miss Asuka — we are all so proud to have worked with her.”
In this significant moment in her career, Asuka shared that she feels complete and is excited for her new chapter as she welcomes new life experiences with her family. Asuka’s favorite memory with Colorado Ballet? Without a doubt, dancing her dream role of Kitri in Don Quixote in 2019, which she had aspired to perform since she was young.
Asuka Sasaki was born in Nagano, Japan and trained at the Emiko Kojima Ballet School and Yo Ballet Academy in Japan, and Beijing Dance Academy in China, following which she joined Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet as an Aspirant. Asuka was offered a position with Colorado Ballet in 2005 as a member of the Corps de Ballet by former Artistic Director Martin Fredmann. In 2010, Artistic Director Gil Boggs promoted Asuka to Soloist and then to Principal in 2017.
“Colorado Ballet will not be the same without Asuka’s artistry. No one will ever be able to fill her shoes, and she will leave a lasting impression on the Company,” declared Artistic Director Gil Boggs.
The final 2:00 PM performance of Ballet MasterWorks on Sunday, April 20, 2025 will include a special celebration of Asuka’s career during the curtain call.
Colorado Ballet wishes Asuka all the best on her next adventures and expresses deep gratitude for her dedication and leadership in the company, and for sharing her heartfelt love for
Season
this art form with Colorado audiences over the years. Learn more about Asuka Sasaki’s career highlights on the Colorado Ballet website.
DENVER HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE
Sunday, April 27, 2025, 2 - 4 PM BABI YAR PARK in DENVER 10451 E Yale Ave, Denver, CO 80231
Featuring the Testimonies of:
Oscar “Osi” Sladek, whose family found different ways to evade the Nazi invasion of their homeland in Slovakia, including hiding in a cave in the Tarta Mountains when Osi was 9. AND
Asher Ben Basat, who as a child, remembers waiting to board a train at a station in Bulgaria but instead, was released to go home. That train was on its way to the extermination camp in Treblinka.
Also Featuring:
Helen Ginsburg, the founder of the Babi Yar Park Foundation, whose meeting with President Jimmy Carter made it possible for her to establish the living Holocaust Memorial called Babi Yar Park.
Please join us in honoring all who have been impacted by the Holocaust and stand with us against the rise of Anti-Semitism that has become so prevalent in our time.
BY FREDA MIKLIN
follow FREDA
am passionate about government and giving our readers straightforward information that will help them make informed choices when they vote. I am also a licensed C.P.A. and former Greenwood Village City Council member. Dr. Jerry Miklin and are the parents of five young adults, including two sets of twins, all of whom graduated from Cherry Creek High School and college. am a 9-time Colo. Press Assn. award winner. If you have any questions about local or state politics or government, or something you want to share, email me at fmiklin.villager@gmail.com.
Midtown Centennial is a planned hub of revitalization and activity
The City of Centennial has long been proactive in making sure it offers a mix of housing types at different price levels to accommodate the diverse needs of its 110,208 residents.
Average citywide household income is $126,224. As of January 2025, the median home listing price in Centennial was $625,200, according to realtor.com.
Centennial NEXT was begun in 2016 as an initiative to define a shared vision for the city through 2040. It was first approved in 2018, then amended by the City’s planning and zoning commis sion and its city council in late 2023. It is described as, “A c our approach to preserving,
enhancing and growing Centennial’s neighborhoods in a way that promotes mutual prosperity, coordinated public investment, and a healthy environment.” The plan was designed with input from Centennial residents, businesses and stakeholders.
One of the components of Centennial NEXT is Midtown Centennial, the name given to an area that the City plans to be, “a dynamic, mixed-use environment fostering meaningful activity and revitalization. Strategically located along the I-25 corridor, Mid-
south). This area is centered around major regional assets, including the Dry Creek Light Rail Station, I-25, Centennial Airport and an emerging entertainment district. It is uniquely positioned to become a central hub of activity within the City of Centennial, blending vibrant residential, commercial, and transit-oriented spaces.”
The City’s vision is for Midtown Centennial to be a place with:
• A unique identity as a distinct district that serves as a gathering place in the city;
• Adaptable design that supports economic vitality and environmental sustainability;
• Vibrant, dynamic mixeduse development where residents can live, work, shop, and play.
The plan for Midtown Centennial plan has evolved since it was first created, driven by the substantial changes in market trends since the pandemic.
The most significant is the now largely permanent transformation to hybrid work that has negatively impacted and will likely continue to negatively impact the demand for office space. Accompanying that evolution is what has been called the “flight to quality,” meaning that those companies that lease office space now are seeking new, shiny buildings with a host of amenities, including dining, retail, and access to transit and recreation, to retain current employees and attract new ones. To appeal to those companies seeking the “flight to quality,” outdated infrastructure, including
CHV Council says no to a gate on a public trail in Cherry Hills Park
At the conclusion of a nearly two-hour public hearing on February 4, the Cherry Hills Village City Council turned down a request from the Cherry Hills Park (CHP) Homeowners’ Association to allow the installation of a gate at the north end of the public trail that bisects that neighborhood. Had it been approved, the HOA planned to lock it between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., when city law prohibits public trails from being used. The vote was 4-1, with Council Members Rob Eber, Doug Robinson, Dave Heller, and Karen Fischer voting against the proposal and Council Member Earl Hoellen supporting it. Council Member Susan Maguire was absent. The original request from the HOA, submitted to the city on December 14, 2023, was for three gates. Before the council could consider it, the request had to be heard by the city’s Parks, Trails, and Recreation
Commission (PTR). Originally scheduled for March 12, 2024, the meeting was canceled once due to inclement weather. Several other dates for the hearing were deferred by the applicant, while they reconsidered their request, after receiving negative feedback from city staff and CHV residents. They eventually revised it to include only one gate. The request was finally presented to PTR on August 8, 2024 at the applicant’s request, even though the HOA did not have a representative at that meeting.
Deputy City Manager and Director of Public Works Jay Goldie presented the request to the PTR on behalf of the applicant. PTR members were provided the original and amended requests from the HOA. The final one, dated March 24, 2024, stated that the request was to install one gate on the north end of the trail that would “be closed during the hours of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., when it is un-
lawful to use the trails per CHV Code.”
The HOA pointed to its “very strong views of concern regarding the need to take appropriate actions to protect the security of its neighborhood and residents,” noting, “U.S. News and World Reports recently ranked the states that were the worst for public safety based on violent and property crime rates. Colorado was alarmingly ranked third worst in this study.” The letter was signed by CHP HOA board members Richard Diecidue, Mark McCammon, Youngdon Yun, Barbita White, and Kit Phillips. According to the minutes of that meeting, “Deputy City Manager Goldie (said that) city staff did not feel that the gate, ‘maintains or enhances the character of the community; analysis included looking at the Master Plan, specifically the Park, Trails and Open Space section, Section 3.9 of the City Charter regarding use of open
spaces and existing trails,’ and this request did not meet any of those requirements,” adding, “Staff is not interested in owning and or maintaining gates on trails.”
PTR members inquired about monitoring of the trail and adjacent trails that had been conducted by CHV police since the gate request was made in December 2023. Police Chief Lyons testified that a person who had been seen walking through a private yard in the neighborhood was homeless and had been contacted, arrested under separate charges, and had not been seen in the city for over a year. Others seen on the trail after hours by cameras, drones, and police officers on bicycles and golf carts, were people walking their dogs and teens riding scooters and bicycles. Chief Lyons noted that none of that conduct observed by CHVPD would have resulted in criminal charges.
In their discussion, PTR
aging office buildings, must be modernized.
The City has retained two consultants to assist them with this project. Civitas, which describes itself as, “an urban design and landscape architecture firm that shapes cities for the better,” by “transforming urban places into living, breathing ecosystems, seamlessly blending nature with city life,” while engaging and listening to residents, has been hired to help design the public portion of the project, “focusing on parks, open spaces, and pedestrian infrastructure.”
Economic & Planning Systems, Inc. (EPS), “a land economics firm experienced in the full spectrum of services related to real estate development, the financing of public infrastructure and government services, land use, and conservation planning,” has been brought on board to assess the fiscal impact of transitioning land uses and guide future development.”
Residents who wish to share their ideas or ask questions about this massive undertaking are encouraged to do so by using an interactive mapping tool found of the project page for Midtown Centennial on the City’s website, https://www.centennialco.gov/Government/ City-Projects-and-Initiatives/ Midtown-Centennial.
commissioners noted that CHP is a gated community and the gate is manned at all times.
PTR voted unanimously to recommend that city council deny the HOA’s request for a gate.
The documents for the city council’s February 4 meeting included a January 25 email from the CHP HOA supporting the request for the gate. It reiterated the extreme safety concerns of CHP residents. It also included a list of six significant actions the HOA had taken after retaining a security consultant. Those included adding a roving guard in a marked security vehicle during evening and nighttime hours and installation of a Flock license plate-reading camera, as well as additional surveillance/security cameras in key locations in the neighborhood. The consultant also recommended the use of a gate to prevent late night access. Along with the email and staff analysis of the request, which was essentially the same as the analysis staff had provided to PTR in August 2024, the city council received six emails
from CHV residents regarding the request. All were against granting it.
One letter was from David Schmidt, a 44-year resident of CHV who had served on PTR for 12 years, including when the CHP trail was built. He said, “The CHP Trail was designed to wind gracefully through the property,” and, “A lot of thought and consideration was put into this trail, considering its location and connection to the
Village’s overall trail system. To gate any trail for any reason in the Village would be absurd.”
Richard Diecidue, HOA president, testified, “I’ve been here 24 years. Over the past several years, there’s been a change in the complexion of the metro environment. It has been compromised…We have some exposure in CHP… The trail bisects the neighborhood.” Explaining that he and his neighbors take their responsibility for their own security seriously, he said the reason they were ask-
ing for the gate was, “We want to ‘lock the door,’ ” adding, “We would absorb the cost and we would donate the gate to the City. Our interest is in safety.”
The HOA’s security consultant, Hal Shucard, noted that, although placing a gate on a trail in CHV is something “that has never been done before, times are changing and those times require that we adapt.”
He compared the request for the gate to CHVPD “re-establishing its canine program and adding additional (officers),” to
New team takes over divided
Arapahoe County GOP
John Temple, newly elected chair of the Arapahoe County GOP, is the fourth consecutive person in that position to follow someone who served only one two-year term. Other county GOP officers are Robin O’Meara, vice-chair, and Jean Baugh, secretary.
Anne Rowland was county GOP chair from 2023 to 2025 but, like the three people who preceded her, did not seek a sec ond two-year term.
Temple won by besting Andy Peth, 83-79. There are approximately 400 voting members of the county GOP’s Central Committee thus more than half did not participate in the vote. The closeness of the race, combined with the number of Central Committee members who did not attend the meeting (there is no proxy voting allowed), is likely attributable to the ongoing, significant split between Arapahoe County Republicans, according to three extremely close sources to the subject who spoke to The Villager but did not want to be named. The contest for county GOP chair in 2023 produced a similarly close result that had even lower participation. Rowland won that race 51-48.
The GOP members who are most likely to call themselves moderate or traditional Republicans proudly support President
enhance public safety.
Council Member Doug Robinson asked CHVPD Chief Jason Lyons about the level of criminal activity in CHP. The chief responded, “There are very few instances of criminal activity that have occurred there…With respect to the overall crime rate in CHV, it is miniscule, at best.” Robinson also asked the HOA president if perimeter fencing was permitted in CHP. The answer was yes.
Council Member Eber confirmed with Diecidue that all residents of CHP were aware that a public trail went through their neighborhood before they bought their homes.
CHP resident Barbita White testified that, “Denver has changed…There is a higher level of criminal activity. We clearly have a problem. Our neighborhood of 22 houses has had more break-ins than have been reported to the police. It’s a very private neighborhood.
I know of three burglaries that have taken place. A neighbor’s passports were stolen out of their property.” She shared that CHP residents were aware when they bought their homes, a trail existed, but, back then, “We didn’t have this crime rate...We are just trying to make ourselves feel more secure at night.” She continued, “I love
cal offices and get them elected, the continuing clash between the two factions of their party, including in Arapahoe County, has only gotten worse over time.
Trump, but generally believe he lost the presidential election in 2020, January 6, 2021 was a terrible day for our country, and people who committed crimes that day should be held accountable. They also believe some MAGA positions go too far. The other faction, largely exemplified by current GOP State Chair Dave Williams, generally believes that President Trump won the 2020 election, January 6 was an FBI conspiracy carried out by whoever and whatever ANTIFA is, and that anything less than 100% loyalty to and agreement with everything the President says and does makes one a RINO (pejorative that stands for Republican in Name Only).
Differences between the two factions came to a head for many Colorado Republicans in June 2024 when a post by
the trail system but criminals have decided to weaponize it,” adding, “There is an international crime ring that targets very wealthy neighborhoods.”
Former CHV Mayor Laura Christman and Karl Friedman testified against the proposal. Friedman pointed out that there was no way to access the trail in question by a parked car, only on foot by a connecting trail, unless one were permitted to enter in a car through the manned gate, thus a criminal using it would have to escape by walking.
Before the formal vote was taken, Council Member Eber stated he did not favor the request because it could lead to other CHV neighborhoods asking for gates on their trails. Council Member Hoellen stated he favored the request because it would address CHP residents’ sincere security concerns. After the vote, Mayor Brown told CHP residents she understood they were likely disappointed with the outcome. As they left the council chamber, HOA President Diecidue looked back toward the dais and said, “See you at the ballot box.”
vice-chair, Hope Scheppelman, “Election interference and highly unethical behavior for party officers. But then again what else would we expect from these corrupt individuals?” That generated the response, “The big $$$$ is on the RINO side and spent on opposing DW (Dave Williams).”
the State Republican Party on X showed a rainbow-colored flag on fire and called on its members to “burn all the pride flags,” because, “The godless groomers in our society want to attack what is decent, holy, and righteous so they can ultimately harm our children.” The level of hate espoused by that post was too much for many Republican leaders around the state and they issued individual public statements saying so. It also led party leaders from across Colorado to publicly call for Williams’ resignation. He refused to step down. What followed was the effort to have him removed and replaced two months later (See Villager Newspaper, February 14, 2025), which ultimately failed.
Unfortunately for local Republicans who simply want to support good candidates for lo-
One need only scan the Arapahoe County Republicans Facebook page to see the conflict.
On February 19, one member of Arapahoe County Republicans posted on Facebook, former Vice-President Mike Pence’s tweet rebuking President Trump for saying that Ukraine started the war with Russia. Another soon commented, “Majority of Republicans think that Pence is a Trator (sic),” and, “The severe case of TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome, attributed to those who disagree with the President, based on an assumption that they only do so because they personally dislike him) is the main problem with this group.”
Another member of the Arapahoe County GOP Facebook group wrote, in response to a post from the state party’s
Former Arapahoe County GOP Vice-Chair Ron Redden, who lost a close race to Robin O’Meara in his bid for re-election to the position, posted on the Arapahoe County Republicans Facebook page, “I am not sure why normally intelligent people can’t see that Dave (Williams) is NOT a Trump clone. Dave is a smooth-talking Pied Piper leading the Colorado Republican Party off the cliff of irrelevance,” adding that, “All four of our U.S. House Representatives oppose Dave Williams, saying he’s divisive and unhelpful.” The four Colorado U.S. Members of Congress are Jeff Hurd, Lauren Boebert, Jeff Crank, and Gabe Evans. On a positive note, outgoing Arapahoe County GOP Chair Rowland told The Villager that she believes that John Temple has good intentions for the county party. She is doing all she can to ensure a smooth transition and wishes the new county leadership much success. Still, she cautioned, “Arapahoe County is very blue (Democratic). I don’t know that pushing a hard right MAGA pro-Trump platform will win.”
Dry Creek Light Rail Station
This map of Cherry Hills Park shows where residents wanted to place a gate.
Continued from page 8
John Temple Robin O’Meara Jean Baugh
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No pressure if prepared, Creek’s Smith explains
For the first time in more than a half-century, Cherry Creek High School’s varsity baseball team will be under new management when the Bruins officially open their 2025 season a week from Saturday at Fossil Ridge.
But first, scrimmages and “unofficial” games, beginning this weekend, comprise Joe Smith’s shakedown cruise as successor to Marc Johnson’s 52 years at the helm.
Does the start of this eason mean Smith should be feeling the pressure with such a tough act to follow (871 wins, 9 state championships)?
“Pressure is opportunity,” he answered one unseasonably nice early February afternoon.
“That’s what we preach to our kids. Whether it’s a test, or applying to colleges, or the bottom of the seventh inning and you’re up to bat, pressure’s just opportunity.
“If you start worrying about that, you’re not going to put your best foot forward. It’s all about, ‘How prepared are you to do the job you’re supposed to do?’”
The coach, he assures, is prepared.
“I would feel the pressure if I didn’t have an amazing wife (Alex), an amazing administration, and an amazing baseball family to lean on,”
he said. “I have a great community. The Cherry Creek Diamond Club is special.
“I could not have inherited a better senior class of leadership,” he continued. “The players have welcomed me.
“I’d be lying if I didn’t say we have a talented team coming back. But it’s about getting better every day. It’s about how they jell together.
“It’s about how we are helping these kids get better every single day, about how are we preparing them to be successful.”
In Smith’s case, he’s had 12 years of preparation as one of Johnson’s assistants—“12 years to soak it all in.”
He came to Creek in 2012 from Dublin, Ohio, where he played in high school and later taught at a charter school.
When his job was eliminated in a budget cut, he decided to move west—temporarily, he thought (just like at least half of Denver’s population).
“I was going to enjoy a year in Colorado, skiing and hiking. And 13 years later, I’m still here.”
Thanks to one of Smith’s coaches in Ohio, he came straight to Cherry Creek.
“The coach I played under for two years coached USA Baseball with Marc Johnson,” he explained.
“So, I called him—Tim Saunders—and said, ‘Hey do
you know anything about high school baseball in Colorado?’
“He said ‘Yeah, let me tell you about Marc Johnson at Cherry Creek High School.’
“So, I called up Marc Johnson. That would be after the 2012 state championship, June 2012. I talked to him, interviewed with him, and I’ve been coaching at Cherry Creek ever since.”
Johnson, who turned 80 in January, retired last June—after winning that ninth state championship (his first since Joe Smith joined him).
“He’s the patriarch of this Cherry Creek baseball family,” his successor says. “I don’t want him to go anywhere. I still call him, ask his opinion on things. Or it can be as simple as, ‘Hey, where did you get the tractor serviced?’”
Those references to the Cherry Creek baseball family aren’t just repeating a cliché.
One of Smith’s assistant coaches is a volunteer who pitched 10 years in the Majors for five teams, including two seasons with the Rockies— Dave Veres.
“He’s been around the program so long (almost seven years, Smith says), he’s like an uncle. He’s part of the family.”
His contribution goes far beyond sharing his knowledge of pitching with Creek’s aspiring pitchers, Smith declares.
“His relatability to the kids and their goals is something I don’t have. I’m not an ex-Major Leaguer.
“He was 75-80 (mph) out of high school. He wasn’t anything spectacular or special. He ended up going to a junior college. Got bigger; got stronger. Ended up growing, reaching 90 and getting drafted.
“So, he’s a story that kids can relate to and realize that, ‘Hey, I just have to keep working. I might have to go to a JuCo or NAIA or Division II, but my dream can still come true.’”
The challenge Joe Smith faces as the 2025 high school baseball season begins can be summed up in this anecdote:
“It was a minute after the championship game,” he relates, “and three people said to me: ‘Back-to-back next year, coach?’”
Denny Dressman’s 17th book, a collaboration with Kansas City artist Anthony High titled Black Baseball’s Heyday – Capturing An Era in Art and Words, will be published in late June. You can write to Denny at denny dressman@comcast.net
How Much Do You Have to Make to File Taxes in 2025?
Dear Savvy Senior,
What can you tell me about the IRS income tax filing requirements for retirees this tax season? My earned income stopped when I retired last March, so I’m wondering if I need to file a tax return this year.
Retired in 2024
Dear Retired,
Whether or not you are required to file a federal income tax return this year will depend on how much you earned last year, as well as the source of the income, your age and filing status.
Here’s a rundown of this tax season’s IRS tax filing requirement thresholds.
For most people, this is pretty straightforward. If your 2024 gross income – which includes all taxable income, not counting your Social Security benefits unless you
Dear Readers,
When is the reading of the Will?
In the movies, when a relative passes away, the surviving loved ones are often seen silently sitting in the office of the attorney for the deceased, who reads the “Last Will and Testament” out loud.
In actuality, there is no
are married and filing separately – was below the threshold for your filing status and age, you probably won’t have to file. But if it’s over, you will.
Single: $14,600 ($16,550 if you’re 65 or older by Jan. 1, 2024).
Married filing jointly: $29,200 ($30,750 if you or your spouse is 65 or older; or $32,300 if you’re both over 65).
· Married filing separately: $5 at any age.
· Head of household: $21,900 ($23,850 if 65 or older).
· Qualifying surviving spouse: $29,200 ($30,750 if 65 or older).
To get a detailed breakdown on federal filing requirements, along with information on taxable and nontaxable income, call the IRS at 800-829-3676 and ask them to mail you a free copy of the “1040 and 1040-SR Instructions for Tax Year 2024,”
formal “reading of the Will”. Instead, when someone passes away, the Will is “admitted” to the probate court, at which time the court appoints a Personal Representative who is responsible for settling the estate. Most often, the Personal Representative is a person named or nominated by the deceased in his or her Will, to be appointed by the Court as
or you can see it online at IRS. gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040gi.pdf
Check Here Too
Be aware that there are other financial situations that can require you to file a tax return, even if your gross income falls below the IRS filing requirements. For example, if you earned more than $400 from self-employment in 2024, owe any taxes on an IRA, Health Savings Account or an alternative minimum tax, or get premium tax credits because you, your spouse or a dependent is enrolled in a Health Insurance Marketplace plan, you’ll need to file.
You’ll also need to file if you’re receiving Social Security benefits, and one-half of your benefits plus your other gross income and any tax-exempt interest exceeds $25,000, or $32,000 if you’re married and filing jointly.
To figure all this out, the IRS offers an online tax tool that asks a series of questions that will help you determine if you’re required to file, or if you should file because you’re
due a refund. It takes less than 15 minutes to complete. You can access this tool at IRS.gov/Help/ITA – click on “Filing Requirements – Do I need to file a tax return?” Or you can get assistance over the phone by calling the IRS helpline at 800-829-1040.
Check Your State
Even if you’re not required to file a federal tax return this year, don’t assume that you’re also excused from filing state income taxes. The rules for your state might be very different. Check with your state tax agency before concluding that you’re entirely in the clear. For links to state tax agencies see Taxadmin.org/ fta-members
Tax Preparation Help
If you find that you do need to file a tax return this year, you can Free File at IRS.gov/ FreeFile, which is a partnership program between the IRS and tax software companies. Your 2024 adjusted gross income must be below $84,000 to qualify. Or, if you have a
by the court and that the Personal Representative has been appointed, along with the Personal Representative’s name and contact information. The Personal Representative mails a copy of the Information of Appointment to all interested persons and typically includes a copy of the Will or information regarding how to obtain a copy.
simple tax situation and your income is below $200,000, or $250,000 if you’re married and filing jointly, you can now file your taxes for free through the new IRS Direct File program in 24 states at DirectFile.IRS.gov
If you need some help, contact the IRS sponsored Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) program, which provides free tax preparation and counseling to middle and low-income taxpayers, age 60 and older. Call 800-9069887 or visit IRS.treasury.gov/ freetaxprep to locate services near you.
You can also get tax preparation assistance through the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide service at AARP.org/findtaxhelp or call 888-227-7669. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
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 Attorney; 2. General Financial Power of Attorney;
be submitted to the probate court together with appropriate pleadings to seek a court order accepting the Will for probate and appointing the Personal Representative. The Court then issues Certified Letters Testamentary, confirming the Court’s appointment of the Personal Representative, who is then legally authorized to handle and settle the probate estate under the terms of the Will.
In Colorado, within thirty days of the appointment of a Personal Representative, he or she must file a pleading entitled: Information of Appointment with the Court, which pleading is also sent to all next of kin and beneficiaries named in the Will. This pleading advises of the decedent’s date of death, the date of the Will, that the Will has been admitted to probate
Thus, while there is no formal “reading of the Will”, if you are a beneficiary, this is how you will be officially notified. And since you will have access to a copy of the Will, you will know the details pertaining to you.
What are the four key medical/estate plan documents you need
now?
Many of my clients have asked what are the critical estate plan documents needed. 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.
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 to them, to accomplish your estate planning goals.
Because the public has a right to know
1st place - 2018, 2nd place - 2023
SPECIAL DISTRICTS
1st place - 2018
Arapahoe Libraries
The Arapahoe Libraries Board of Trustees (the “Board”) invites interested residents to apply for an open position.
The Board is a seven-member governing, policy-making board. The Board is responsible for a $43 million budget, nine facilities, and the policies for funding and operating these facilities.
Arapahoe Libraries serves all of Arapahoe County except the cities of Littleton, Englewood and Aurora. It also serves a small portion of Adams County that is within the Deer Trail School District. New Trustees are recommended by the Board and confirmed by the Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners and the Deer Trail School District Board of Education, the two governmental entities that formed the District in 1966.
The time commitment for Trustees is substantial. The Board meets on the third Tuesday of every month beginning at 5:30 p.m. (dates and times are occasionally changed.) Meetings are scheduled on a rotating basis at the various District libraries. In addition to the 2-4 hours of reading to prepare for each meeting, trustees must also commit to attending some library events, study sessions, and occasional workshops, conferences and related meetings. An iPad will be provided for Board reading material.
ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER:
#55158 NEW LEAF FAMILY, a division of ANDERSONDODSON, P.C. 14143 Denver West Parkway, Suite 100-50 Golden, Colorado 80401 Phone: 720-647-7158 Email: klayman@andersondodson. com
Case Number: 2025DR30018 Division: 35 Courtroom: SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
FOXFIELD
TO: JORGE LUIS PRADO IBARRA
You are hereby summoned and required to file with the Clerk of the Court an answer or other response to the Petition filed in this case. You are required to file your answer or response on or before March 27, 2025, in the Arapahoe County Court, Centennial, Colorado.
Please take notice that an Initial Status Conference is scheduled to be held on February 7, 2025 at 11 a.m. in the above referenced Court to be conducted via Webex.
The nature of this action is a proceeding in rem.
The relief sought by the Petitioner is a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.
EXHIBIT
After 91 days from the date of service or publication, the Court may enter a Decree affecting your marital status, distribution of property and debts, issues involving children such as child support, allocation of parental responsibilities (decision-making and parenting time), maintenance (spousal support), attorney fees, and costs to the extent the Court has jurisdiction.
If you fail to file a Response in this case, any or all of the matters above, or any related matters which come before this Court, may be decided without further notice to you.
The court has issued a Case Management Order on January 7, 2025, that contains important information and pertinent deadlines. This full document is available to you through the court record.
Besides your time and interest in the Library, the most important qualification is a sincere commitment to provide the best possible library service to the residents of the entire District. Experience interpreting financial statements is also encouraged. Applicants must live within the Arapahoe Library District service area to serve on the board.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform the functions of the volunteer position.
Interested persons should complete the online application found at https:// arapahoelibraries.org/board-of-trustees.
Applications must be received by Sunday March 2, 2025 at 4:00 pm. For further information please contact Oli Sanidas, Executive Director, at 303-792-8987.
Published in The Villager
First Publication: February 13, 2025
Last Publication: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11737
COURTS
Dated at Denver, Colorado, this 27th day of January 2025.
NEW LEAF FAMILY
By: /s/ Kelsey A. Layman
Kelsey A. Layman CO Atty. Reg. No. 55158
ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER
Published in The Villager
First Publication: January 30, 2025 Last Publication: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11719
DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112
PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner,
In the Interest of:
ADAN ROMAN BASTIDAS, Child, and concerning, MARIA LUCIANA BASTIDAS AND JOHN DOE, Respondents.
Erinn Walz, Esq. #43200 Office of the Arapahoe County Attorney Attorney for the People Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 ewalz@arapahoegov.com (303) 636-1821
Case No: 25JV2 Division: 22
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT CONCERNING
JOHN DOE SET FOR MARCH 10, 2025, AT 2:45 PM IN DIV. 22
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent, JOHN DOE, is set for MARCH 10, 2025, at 2:45 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be Represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and enter into a treatment plan by default in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.
The Arapahoe County District Court is holding this hearing via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart
phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link:
•https://judicial.webex.com/meet/ D18-ARAP-Div22
•Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.
•Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.
•If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664. When prompted enter Access code: 2594 887 9073 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).
YOU ARE FURTHER COMMANDED to appear before the Court at said time and place, either in person or by Cisco WebEx Meetings. If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin.
Dated: February 19, 2025. Erinn Walz, Reg. #43200 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner
Published in The Villager Published: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11763
DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112
PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of:
ADAN ROMAN BASTIDAS, Child, and concerning, MARIA LUCIANA BASTIDAS AND JOHN DOE, Respondents.
Erinn Walz, Esq. #43200
Office of the Arapahoe County Attorney Attorney for the People Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 ewalz@arapahoegov.com (303) 636-1821
Case No: 25JV2
Division: 22
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT CONCERNING
JOHN DOE SET FOR MARCH 10, 2025, AT 2:45 PM IN DIV. 22
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent, JOHN DOE, is set
NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED 2024 BUDGET AMENDMENT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the proposed amended budget for 2024 has been submitted to the Fiddlers Business Improvement District (“District”). Such proposed budget will be considered at a meeting and public hearing of the Board of Directors of the District to be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25, 2025 via telephone and videoconference. To attend and participate by telephone, dial 669-254-5252, Meeting ID: 161 013 9940 and Passcode 121351.
Copies of the proposed amended 2024 budget is available for public inspection at the offices of Spencer Fane LLP at 1700 Lincoln Street, Ste. 2000, Denver, CO 80203. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to final adoption of the amended 2024 budget, file or register any objections thereto.
FIDDLERS BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT By: /s/ Ronald Fano, District Counsel
Published in The Villager Published: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11768
for MARCH 10, 2025, at 2:45 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and enter into a treatment plan by default in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.
The Arapahoe County District Court is holding this hearing via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link:
•https://judicial.webex.com/meet/ D18-ARAP-Div22
•Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.
•Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.
Case No: 25JV2
Division: 22
•If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664.
When prompted enter Access code: 2594 887 9073 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).
YOU ARE FURTHER COMMAND-
ED to appear before the Court at said time and place, either in person or by Cisco WebEx Meetings.
If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin.
Dated: February 19, 2025.
Erinn Walz, Reg. #43200 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner
Published in The Villager
Published: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11764
DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO 7325 South Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 649-6355 Telephone
PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO, Petitioner,
IN THE INTEREST OF: JIA CYMONE-RENEE DAVIS, Child, and concerning CHALAYA CYMONE DAVIS, RONNIE JOHNSON, ROBERT JOHNSON, AND JOHN DOE,
Shannon Nichols, Esq. #50527 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the People 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 Tel: 303-636-1895 Fax: 303-636-1889
Case No: 23JV388
Division: 22
NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING JOHN DOE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Default Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding JOHN DOE is set on April 7, 2025 at 10:45 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and adopt the prepared treatment plan for you in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code, or to determine that there is no appropriate treatment plan.
The Arapahoe County District Court is holding hearings via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link:
•https://judicial.webex.com/meet/ D18-ARAP-Div22
•Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.
•Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.
•If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664. When prompted enter Access code: 2594 408 0614 then press #, # (no attendee ID is
Date: February 19, 2025
Shannon
ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN
CASA
FEB. 28, 4:45 p.m. Celebrate the retirement of Nancy Steele at their office. The celebration will follow the Volunteer Swearing-In Ceremony at 4 p.m. RSVP: Victoria_raphael@adv4children.org
SCREENAGERS UNDER THE INFLUENCE
MARCH 4, 6:45-8:00 p.m. Sponsored by Cherry Creek School District and “One Chance to Grow Up.” A PIN (Parent Info Network) Free event. Panel and refreshments. 14603 E. Fremont Ave., Centennial. Info 303-210-5412.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY - CSU
EXTENSION HOT WATER BATH CANNING: GRAPE JELLY
MARCH 5, 7-8:30 p.m. Arapahoe County CSU Extension office in Centennial. Register https:// bit.ly/CSUGrapeJelly
IRAN’S 2025 PLAYBOOK: UNRAVELING THE NEXT WAVE OF THREATS TO U.S. SECURITY
WED., MARCH 5, 12-1:15 p.m. Join the Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL) & the Centennial Institute for a conversation with Dr. Matthew Levitt, foremost expert in counterterrorism, Middle Eastern affairs, and intelligence. Part of CCU’s Israel Week. The Armstrong Center Parlor, Colo. Christian University., 8787 W. Alameda Ave., Lakewood. Register: 303-963-3157.
CHERRY CEEK CHORALE CELTIC FESTIVAL XI
MARCH 7 & 8. 6:40 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden Ave., Cherry Hills Village. Soul-stirring performances by Nerea the Fiddler and the Michael Collins Pipes & Drums. Joined by Overland High School Concert Choir. Artistic Director & Conductor Brian Leatherman with Associate Conductor William White. www. cherrycreekchorale.org/
CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE ART COMMISSION ARTIST TALK
WED MARCH 12 6-8 PM, Cherry Hills Village City Hall, 2450 E. Quincy Avenue. The community is cordially invited to hear from Joe Norman (creator of Resilience series in John Meade Park), Yoshitomo Saito and Susan Cooper.
Attendees will hear a discussion about the artists’ process and have a chance to ask questions of their own. Wine, beer and catered hors d’oeuvres will be served and time for mingling. Space is limited. Admission is free, but RSVP is required no later than March 5: www.cherryhillsvillage. com/artisttalk
JEWISH COLORADO ANNUAL LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON
WED., MARCH 12, 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. Denver Art Museum. Honoring Matt Most, former chair of the JCRC with the Community Leadership Award and the Honorable Dafna Michelson Jenet with the Legislative Leadership award. Registration: https://events.idonate. com/2025crcluncheon
CENTRAL CITY OPERA
Central City Opera Teaser: MARCH 13, Wellshire Event Center. Enjoy stunning performances of excerpts from CCO’s 2025 summer festival, and support the CCO Guild’s efforts to preserve and enhance the Central City Opera House gardens. Tickets at centralcityopera.com/teaser
Central City Opera Theatre of Dreams Gala: APRIL 4, Denver Art Museum. Enjoy cocktails, dinner, a curated live auction, and a paddle raise, before a performance by headline artists featured in CCO’s summer’s productions of Once Upon a Mattress and The Barber of Seville. Tickets at centralcityopera.org/gala. RSVP deadline: March 20.
SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER SMDC ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS
WED., MARCH 12, 5-8:00 p.m. Curtis Ballroom, Comedy Works South. Presented by Vetra Bank. Nomination deadline: FEB. 7. Nominees must be a member of the Chamber from Jan.-Dec. 2024 and beyond. Nominations to: info@bestchamber.com
CENTRAL CITY OPERA GUILD OPERA TEASER
MARCH 13, 5:30 p.m. Wellshire Event Center, 3333 S. Colo. Blvd., Denver. Proceeds benefit the Central City Opera House Gardens. 5:30 p.m. cocktails; 6:30 Dinner; 7:30 Program. RSVP Box Office 303-292-6700.
MIZEL ARTS & CULTURE CENTER’S DENVER CHILDREN’S
THEATRE, “CHARLOTTE’S WEB.”
FEB. 20-MARCH 16. FEB. 23 Performance at 10 a.m. is a SCFD Free Day event and Accessibility Day for the public. Additional performances March 2, 9, and 16 at 10 a.m. at Theatre at the Mizel Arts & Culture Center located at the Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center. Tickets available for public performances.
LOCAL ARTIST INVITED TO APPLY FOR 2025 ART ON LOAN PROGRAM
Sponsored by South Suburban Parks and Recreation. Apply by MARCH 17. Selected sculptures will be displayed at Goodson Recreation Center or Hudson Gardens for a year, and artists will receive a $500 honorarium for the display. Call 720-245-2604 or Info: gpeterson@ssprd.org
NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN
The Arapahoe County Mayors & Commissioners Youth Award recognizes teenagers who have overcome adversity & risen to challenges. Scholarships awarded to graduating seniors who wish to pursue post-secondary educational opportunities at vocational schools, two or fouryear colleges, or trade & certification programs. Teachers, counselors, and school administrators can nominate exceptional seniors through March 7 at arapahoecogov/youth awards.
ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN CASA - RALLY FOR KIDS
APRIL 25, 12-2 p.m. Denver Marriott South at Park Meadows. Apeaker Tonier Cain, a trauma survivor, author, filmmaker, and international recognized speaker specializing in trauma-informed care. RSVP: 303-328-2350 or georgia_reiss@adv4children.org
MS. COLORADO SENIOR AMERICA - CALL FOR CONTESTANTS
Ms. Colorado Senior America Pageant is taking applications for the 31st pageant on APRIL 26, 2025 If you are a lady 60 years or better, this is your opportunity to get out and do something for you in 2025!!! Not just a “one and done” pageant, we are involved with year round activities and make a difference in our communities. This is the “Age of Elegance!” For more information - website: ColoSrAmerica. com, FB - Ms Colorado Senior America Pageant or call René Green, Pageant Administrator at 720- 384-6249.
DENVER HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE
SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 2-4 p.m. Babi Yar Park in Denver, 1045 E.Yale Ave., Denver
WHAT’S NEW? - ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE SENIOR LIVING EVENTS
Upscale dining, engaging events and activities, indoor pool, pet friendly. Call 720-684-5913 to
2025 Toyota Sienna PLT Is All-Around Champion
The factory test cars keep getting better. I think I’ve driven my favorite vehicle and then along one to match or beat the last one. I once purchased a Ford Mustang that had been a factory test car This past week, with the frigid weather and snowy roads, I had a fabulous Toyota Sienna Van/ SUV sliding doors and all-wheel drive. This large vehicle has second row bucket seats and two more seats that fold up for a capacity of six or more passengers. The sliding doors work well in crowded parking areas for
passenger entry or departure.
This Sienna all-wheel is priced at $59,534 and is priceless for comfort and short or long drives. The vehicle has a hybrid component that inter-mingles with the 2.5L/
4-cylinder engine that delivers 245 horsepower. This combination produces solid gas mileage of 35 miles overall. The Sienna has a continuous electronic variable transmission that works in harmony with the drive mode.
Driving in a
blizzard, the Sienna had great windshield wipers, and a powerful heater, and perfect traction on the icy road. The vehicle has a 5-star safety rating, the highest score given, and is loaded with safety features. LED headlights were great in the blizzard for visibility. The vehicle has the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 system with pre-collision, along with a 4G network and the STAR system. The seats are leather trimmed and the rear captain chairs have extended
the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and enter into a treatment plan by default in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.
Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In
The Arapahoe County District Court is holding this hearing via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link:
schedule a tour and enjoy lunch on the Village. Located at 133801 E. Yale Ave., Aurora.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY WINE & CHALK ART FESTIVAL
MAY 3 & 4 - Arapahoe County Fairgrounds. Enjoy wine from local wineries, chalk art, live bands, activities, shopping and more. Early bird tickets $30 for Sat./ $20 for Sunday. arapahoecountyeventcenter.com
SAVE THE DATE - MIZEL INSTITUTE 2025 HONOREES
THURSDAY, MAY 22 . Honoring Bonnie & David Mandarich. 2024 honoree was Peyton Manning.
DENVER LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 12 noon at the American Legion Hall, I-25 & Yale. Interested in joining? Call Bob, 720-313-9741.
ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS
Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:00 p/m. At Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway,Englewood. Info: Gail 720-377-7682.
WHAT’S NEW? - ECHOES OF AN EMPIRE
ANGKOR - The Lost Empress of Cambodia. Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Exhibition Free with Museum admission.
leg room and are heated and ventilated. The interior is spacious and well adorned. This is a great family car with a large trunk with fold down seats for more passengers or luggage. The Sienna has a vacuum and fridge box between the front seats and very convenient UBS charge pad very close to the driver’s seat by the center console.
Lastly, the Sienna grabs the highway and provides an excellent ride and drive. It is loaded with special features and a JBL 12- speaker sound system. I just loved this Sienna and enjoyed the drive immensely.
•https://judicial.webex.com/meet/ D18-ARAP-Div22
•Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.
•Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.
•If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664. When prompted enter Access code: 2594 887 9073 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).
YOU ARE FURTHER COMMAND-
ED to appear before the Court at said time and place, either in person or by Cisco WebEx Meetings. If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin.
Dated: February 19, 2025. Erinn Walz, Reg. #43200 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner Published in The Villager Published: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11766
By H. Throttle
The one secret to creating a smarter wealth transfer plan
Holding a family meeting to share your intentions is a critical step too often skipped. Here are some tips from Bank of America for getting the conversation started.
When you set up an estate plan, signing the paperwork is the easy part. What comes before that making oftendifficult decisions about who gets what when and sharing your plans with your family can be an emotional minefield. After all, you are talking about your mortality. No wonder many people keep their plans under wraps.
But the price of silence can be steep: Not sharing your estate plans can create family quarrels later or make it harder for your heirs to manage their inheritance. Hosting a family meeting to communicate your plans is crucial to successful wealth planning.
Your financial advisor and estate attorney or tax professional can help you think through how to structure your estate. Then your advisor can attend your family meeting having an objective advisor present to lead the conversation and answer questions can help family members talk freely about their feelings.
These four tips can help you have a productive conversation:
Come prepared. Before you involve family members in an estate planning discussion, you and your spouse, if you are married, need to agree on what you hope to leave to your kids and other family members and what you would like those assets to help them achieve.
Gather information about your account balances and other assets your advisor can help. Having those numbers in mind can help your family members understand how an inheritance might affect their own financial plans. Think, too, about whether you want to pass on your legacy while you are still living or after you are gone.
Finally, sharing an agenda in advance will allow family members to prepare for a thoughtful and open conversation and not get caught off guard.
Share the ground rules. For a matter as important and potentially fraught as your estate plan, it can be a good idea to set up a series of discussions. They do not have to take place face to face. Virtual meetings can be easier to schedule, and the physical distance can help remove some of the emotion.
Make clear that you want people to be candid but respectful. The idea is to forge consensus. Instead of talking about numbers for the first meeting or two, start by sharing your thoughts about what the assets you have accumulated have meant to you. Then you can talk about the impact you hope your money can have on the next generation.
Set a positive tone. Emphasize a “we are all in this together” approach. Estate planning is a collective responsibility requiring a collective solution. To encourage feedback, offer discussion points as questions, such as “Do you feel the estate plan gives you the help you may need?”
Explain that your heirs will be better able to manage their financial plans based on realistic expectations and point out that everyone in the family might feel more at ease knowing where to find your estate planning paperwork and which advisors or estate attorneys they should turn to in the event of your passing.
Leave with an action plan. As you work together to create an estate plan, your advisor can help with practical strategies for many complex situations. These may involve financial documents such as wills, trusts and life insurance policies. Say you are considering passing on part of your estate while you are alive but wonder whether your children are prepared to handle it. Your advisor can help you implement a “test drive” approach in which you periodically give financial gifts through a trust.
Then there is the question of estate taxes. During your family meeting, your advisor can help make sure everyone understands the implications of their inheritances and can work with your estate attorney or tax professional to see whether there might be ways to lessen their potential tax burden.
Even after all the paperwork is done, think of this as an ongoing conversation. As your family’s needs change through divorce, marriage or a new grandchild, for instance you will want to revisit your plan. And each time you do, it should come closer to capturing your vision for empowering the next generation.
For more information, contact Merrill Financial Advisor
Andrew Neal in the Greenwood Village, CO, office at 303.689.8043 or andrew.neal@ml.com.
Neither Bank of America nor any of its affiliates, provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions. Investing involves risk. There is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities.
Asset allocation, diversification, and rebalancing do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.
This material does not take into account a client’s particular investment objectives, financial situations, or needs and is not intended as a recommendation, offer, or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select. For more information about these services and their differences, speak with your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor. Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). Bank of America, N.A. makes available The H.S.A. for Life® Health Savings Account.
Bank of America is a marketing name for the Retirement Services business of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). Banking activities may be performed by wholly owned banking affiliates of BofA Corp., including Bank of America N.A., Member FDIC. Please consult your tax or legal advisor regarding specific use of Health Savings Accounts. Investments can lose money. Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Brokerage services are provided by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation. Banking products such as checking accounts and certificates of deposit are FDIC insured to the maximum allowed by law and are offered through Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Investment products offered through MLPF&S, and insurance and annuity products offered through MLLA.:
