MEET MARIA SCRIVAN, AUTHOR OF ‘NAT ENOUGH’
Arapahoe Libraries invites you to meet New York Times bestselling author Maria Scrivan. Hear about Maria’s own struggles with not fitting in, her love of cartooning at an early age and her strategies for moving through doubt and fear. Then, see her creative process in action!
Thursday, May 1, 6-7 pm
This event will be hosted on the Zoom platform.
For teens, tweens and adults. To reserve your spot, scan the QR code or visit arapahoelibraries.org/events
Are We Ready for a New Sexual Revolution?
For Spring Break, there is a cultural norm around young people traveling to beaches to drink or drug to excess and sleep with as many people as possible. Does this behavior meet a human need without consequence, or does it amplify the dehumanization of one another seeking pleasure over personhood? Do these behaviors signify that we have positively evolved?
theory that civilizations are essentially neurotic and destroy themselves by restricting sexual expression. The evidence he discovered pointed exactly to opposite conclusions. What Unwin discovered was the link between cultural achievement and sexual restraint. The results of this research are penned in his 1934 book, Sex and Culture
Joseph Unwin, a British anthropologist at Oxford University, conducted a massive study of 6 significant civilizations and 80 lesser societies covering 5,000 years of history. He set out expecting to find evidence supporting Sigmund Freud’s
As a curious observer, I would agree. Working with adolescents and emerging adults, I watch as they spin out of control with drugs, alcohol, depression, suicidal ideation, multiple sexual partners, academic underachievement, lack of focus, and malaise.
Massive sexual scandals in Hollywood, the corporate
world, politics, and religion in our neighborhoods and families are not new. When we, as a culture, feed what is natural, like a strong sex drive, with no limits, the result is not favorable. It is like going to a buffet line when hungry. There are too many choices, making it challenging to make healthy decisions.
Behavioral restraint is not seen as a virtue. It is not something we teach, admire, or highlight in the public square. Choice and variety is our right. College students are expected to party, drink, and hook up. The rich and famous are expected to have it all. High school students are expected to experiment with sex as part of their rite of passage into adulthood. If they have condoms
and consent, all is well with the world.
What if we taught the skills to incorporate behavioral restraint, love, fidelity, commitment, the value of marriage and family, character, resiliency, leadership, relationship development, etiquette, grooming, kindness, compassion, tolerance, gratitude, and empathy?
This generation is longing for this. Recently, I was facilitating a training on the REAL (Relationship Education and Leadership) Essentials Curriculum at the University of Texas.
The director of the Texas Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program asked me to tell the story of what happened when I was the contracted speaker at a teen pregnant and parenting group home years earlier.
When I arrived at the group home, the gals did everything they could to sabotage the onehour presentation. They were talking, and their babies were crying. It was pure chaos. I did not say a word for 55 minutes. The babies were finally asleep, and the girls, curious as to why I was still there, sat quietly and attentively. I asked, “How many of you are being loved well by your baby’s daddy?” “How would you like to learn skills to fill your heart and get what you long for?” They were all in. They were ready to learn about life and love and were ready for a new sexual revolution, shifting the focus from sex to healthy relationships and committed love. Are we? joneen@narme.org
The Printed Word Will Never Die
I’m often asked, “What do I think is the future of newspapers?” That is a very good question with deep division these days between private free enterprise newspapers such as this one… compared to newspapers that have chosen to go nonprofit and rely on donations and foundation grants for support. The nonprofit newspapers may have chosen a bad time in history to leave the profit world and be like public radio and TV dependent upon grants and fragile government funding by the Trump administration. In Congressional hearings last week, the CEO of public radio/TV admitted her employees were 97 Democrats and zero Republicans. That’s a strange combination and while I enjoy some of public TV programing, especially the concerts, it is time for progressive foundations to admit they are political and support public news organizations. Making a profit is the lifeblood of publications and we stand or fail on our ability
BY BOB SWEENEY PUBLISHER
to have something to sell in print and have strong subscription support.
Print is not dead by any means. Newspapers print history while it is happening. Magazines and books have features and stories to tell. Books are very popular these days, and if you notice, almost every news anchor is selling their books. There is a close affinity with newspaper writing and that of storytelling, whether fact, or fiction. During my newspaper career we have worked with many successful novelists. One of my neighbors, and good friend, is Dr. Judith Briles, noted author, speaker, book coach, and founder of the Author’s Hall of Fame for Colorado with an annual award ceremony and scholarships for aspiring novelists. Her latest book “Cooking with Judith” is on the bestseller list. She has authored 48 books and honored with 56 books awards. Currently our sportswriter Denny Dressman is writing his 18th book specializing in baseball history and events. Linda Jones was one of our
great history writers from her home in Gilpin County. Bruce MacKenzie-is a very successful author of fiction. His latest published novel, “The Shroud Solution,“ may become a movie. Bruce has resided in Greenwood Village when not traveling the world with his wife Joneen. She writes a keen column on social challenges and has published a book, “Relationship Essentials” with co-author Lauren Reitsema
Just recently Dr. Paul N. Tschetter, M.D., who has resided in Greenwood Village for 65 years retiring from his medical practice in 2012, has published a recent book, “Almost Fifty Years’ Experience as a Pediatrician,” a fascinating account of his 49 years of taking care of children and dealing with parents. It is a great read, and every mother of young children needs to read this book with great advice about caring for a child. Dr. Tschetter, now 90, is a revered medical treasure residing in Greenwood Village. He has cared for a wide circle of metro children both at Children’s Hospital and in his private practice. I was a close
friend of his father, Paul Tschetter, who I knew for many years in the Denver Lions Club. Lion Tschetter was the founder of Savio House, a very successful program to assist troubled youth with treatment rather than incarceration. Founded as a residential center for teen boys, it now works to build stronger family relationships in the home and is very successful.
There is a strong bond between newspaper writing and literary manuscripts. Both are putting ink on paper and having on-line presence through many links. One of the major challenges for newspapers is closure of printing plants here in Colorado and across the nation. We now print our newspapers at the Cheyenne Eagle in Cheyenne, Wyo. with the papers trucked to post offices every Wednesday morning. We’re getting great service and deliveries right on time, but prices have increased for us. You readers may have noticed the newspapers arriving a day sooner.
Whether you reside in the mountains or the plains you will encounter the printed word.
The
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ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
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Colorado’s National Committeewoman Christy Fidura: How Pueblo was turned RED good at English and excellent at politics,” she said of her daughter who accompanies her frequently even to Mara-Lago. Christy is a founding member of Pueblo County Patriots (PCP), now 3,000 members strong, across Pueblo and beyond. The PCPs flipped
that city and turned it RED – after more than 80 years of Dem control. In Pueblo, because of the rallies, personal connections and caring about representation - people were saying: “Being Republican sounds like fun, can we come over?” “We are all where we are supposed to be,” said Christy. “I’m not giving up on my state. I’m here to represent the people. I have Christ on the wall in the dining room and Ronald Reagan in the living room. We need to remind the RNC that we (in Colorado) are still viable!”
LEFT: CCRW President Dorothy Gotlieb with keynote speaker Christy “Ruckus” Fidura and her homeschooled daughter Jasper
Denver Ballet Guild celebrates 40 years of Young
“I miss the Colorado I grew up in!” – Christy Fidura
Dancers Competition
Over 200 dancers between 10-19 years young participated and $20,000 given in awards to further their dance education
guests Rusty
Adrienne
overall excellence in dance throughout all aspects of the competition.
ABOVE, LEFT: Carol Waller and CCRW 2nd VP Lynne Cottrell
ABOVE: Former CCRW President Andi Allott and Aleksandra Gopsill
Cindy Webb with Englewood City Council members Kim Wright and Rita Russell Photos by Scottie Iverson
Young Dancer Beatrice Yang in the competition
Young Dancer Victoria Childress in the competition Photos courtesy of Denver Ballet Guild
ABOVE: Honored
Porterfield (grandson of Florence Ruston) and
Ruston Fitzgibbons (daughter of Florence Ruston) surround Carsyn Henry who received the prestigious Denver Ballet Guild Florence Ruston Medallion that honors a young dancer who, in the opinion of the judges, exhibits
Wagner family presentation: Francisco Estevez (YDC Artistic Director), Orion Wagner, Derek Wagner, Charles Leo Bruce Trojanowski (who was presented the Shamrockk Award – a very special award dedicated to the memory of a cherished member of the dance community and incredible talent, Remi Wagner), Mariana Wagner and Tracy Jones (YDC Artistic Director)
Rob Gardner’s LAMB of GOD a Message of Hope at The Newman Center, University of Denver
Presented by the Littleton Colorado
Stake of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
FLEURISH
LEFT: Arrious Grace (Mean Street Worship Center), Pastor Dwayne Johnson (Mean Street Worship Center), Mary and Paul Johnson (Mennonite Disaster Recovery), Sharon
President of Littleton Stake of the Church of Latter-day Saints Don Pebbles welcomes guests Photos by Scottie Iverson
Earl Wright visits with Rachel Pebbles, wife of Don Pebbles
Cornerstone Productions President Paul Archer and wife Carol with Judy and NexGen Chairman & CEO Charlie McNeil
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Communications Director
Cherry Hills Village Councilman Doug Robinson and wife Diane Carlson
Aurora Stake 2nd Counselor Tim Bradford, Senora James, Restoration Christian Fellowship Executive Pastor Samuel James and Executive Director of Colorado Council of Churches Adrian Miller
A Sacred Musical Work performed by The Cornerstone Chorale & Orchestra
Stake President, Columbine
Stake of the Church of Latter-day Saints Chris Jensen and President, Jefferson County School Board Mary Parker
Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, James Eckhart, Jr., Centennial Mayor Stephanie Piko
Centennial Councilwoman Robyn Carnes and husband Jay Carnes
The Cornerstone Chorale & Orchestra - local professional-level volunteer singers and musicians from all walks of life plus narrators, actors and soloists creating an uplifting and breathtaking performance capturing the SPIRIT of Easter
Deborah Flora with The Villager Newspaper’s Bob and Gerri Sweeney
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. I 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.
Denver’s National Women’s Soccer League team will play in Centennial in 2026 and 2027
On January 30, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) announced it had awarded Denver the league’s 16th franchise. It will be owned by an investor group led by Rob Cohen. The team, as-yet unnamed, is set to begin playing in 2026. Its website is DenverNWSL.
com.
On March 18, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston announced that the team will build a state-of-the-art stadium on 14 acres in a new sports and entertainment district for professional women’s sports in the Santa Fe Yards at Broadway and I-25, expected to open in spring 2028.
The mayor said, “The multi-purpose stadium, park, and community district will be the anchor and catalyst for redevelopment of the site as a transit-oriented development that is intended to be walkable and encourages the use of public transportation.” The property will include a 3.5-acre general use park.
Describing the plan for the 14,500-seat venue, Rob Cohen said, “This will be the largest overall investment in a women’s professional sports team in history. We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to leverage this massive private investment to revitalize and transform Santa Fe Yards into a new hub of thriving community activity, a place for outdoor recreation, restaurants, retail, and for building connections with our community. This project will reconnect neighborhoods, create new jobs, and boost the local economy during and after the construction process, unlocking year-round economic, social, and cultural benefits that extend far beyond the stadium’s walls.”
On March 27, the team announced it will build a “permanent world-class performance center and purpose-built temporary stadium for women’s professional athletes in Centennial. The state-of-the-art performance center will serve as the team’s training facility. Denver NWSL, in partnership with the City of Centennial and the Cherry Creek School District (CCSD), will build a 12,000-seat temporary stadium for Denver NWSL to play in for the 2026 and 2027 NWSL seasons.” The facility will be located near South Potomac Street and East Fremont Avenue.
According to a press release, the Denver NWSL performance center and temporary stadium will be built on 43 acres and will include a “20,000- square-foot training facility purpose-built for professional
women’s sports, eight soccer fields, including the 12,000-seat temporary stadium field, a dedicated team room for Denver NWSL, including stateof-the-art recovery facilities, a dining area and lounge for players and family members, a video analysis theater, and an elite core for integrated strength and conditioning, sports science, and sports medicine.”
After the 2027 season, when the NWSL team expects to begin playing its games at its permanent home in Denver, the stadium will be reduced to a 4000-seat facility and used as a venue for CCSD sports teams.The partnership between Denver NWSL and CCSD will include shared use of the training fields and stadium,” as well as internship opportunities for Cherry Creek Innovation Campus students studying sports management, health and wellness, facilities and equipment management, teaching, and business.
CCSD Superintendent Chris Smith described the aligned plan with the Denver NWSL team as “an exciting new chapter for Cherry Creek Schools and the start of a long-term partnership that offers another Pathway of Purpose and life-changing
Brita Horn will lead Colorado GOP for the next two years
On March 29, former Routt County Treasurer and current Rock Creek Volunteer Fire Department Chief Brita Horn was elected chair of the Colorado Republican Party. She will serve a twoyear term. There were seven candidates in the race for party chief when it began, but five dropped out after the first round of voting, leaving Horn and former state Rep. Lori Saine. The final vote was 232-203.
Colorado Politics reported that Horn told members of the GOP state central committee that “she wants Republicans to move past the internal fights that have consumed the party, giving Democrats free reign to consolidate near total control of state government.” She was also quoted as saying “We have so much division, we have so much distraction. We have all these things going on, debating about the past.
We can’t do that anymore. We have to stop the infighting and start fighting for the party,” adding, “We have to unite the party. It’s about all of us. So, if we can stop blaming each other, stop pointing fingers ... because if we keep doing that, I say we’re going to keep losing.’
Horn was appointed as Routt County Treasurer in 2012 to fill the unexpired term of then-Treasurer Jeanne Whiddon, who retired from the position two years early. She was then elected to the position in 2014, where she served until 2018, when she made a bid for the GOP nomination for State Treasurer, losing to Brian Watson, who was defeated in the general election by current State Treasurer Dave Young.
opportunities for students,” adding, “This project provides substantial short- and long-term benefits for students, families, and the community while maximizing taxpayer investment in the district.”
Centennial Mayor Stephanie Piko said, “We are thrilled to welcome this new professional women’s soccer performance center to our city. This investment in women’s sports will inspire athletes of all ages and strengthen our community’s commitment to excellence, teamwork, and opportunity. Centennial is proud to host the start of Colorado’s first professional women’s sports team. The temporary venue will be the first-ofits-kind serving an NWSL club, and it will bring the added benefit of providing a long-term home for CCSD team sporting events.”
A report from the Steamboat Pilot on January 25, 2019, after Horn left office, said she incurred legal fees of $100,403 during 2018, her final year as county treasurer, by hiring an outside law firm to deal with various legal matters, including disputes with the Routt County Board of County Commissioners. Those fees significantly exceeded her office budget of $2,000 and were paid by taxpayers.
Many local Republicans are hoping Horn’s election will allow the party to unite and focus on winning elections after two years of intraparty conflict fueled by the words and actions of outgoing state GOP Chair Dave Williams.
In 2024, when Williams was a primary candidate for Congress, he took the unprecedented step as party chair of having the state party make endorsements in the primary, including one for
On November 9, 2016, Craig Press reported that Horn was instrumental in a settlement with county taxpayer Peabody Energy, which confirmed that they paid “about $1.8 million in overdue 2015 property taxes as well as a little more than $100,000 in interest on the taxes,” plus $62,500 in legal fees Horn incurred on behalf of the County in pursuit of the overdue taxes.
John Curtis is selected as new chief at South Metro Fire Rescue
On February 24, the South Metro Fire Rescue (SMFR) Board of Directors announced the selection of John Curtis as the new SMFR Fire Chief. He will assume the position at the end of April.
In revealing the selection of Curtis, Jim Albee, SMFR board chair, said, “His deep experience, strategic leadership, and commitment to our mission made him the ideal candidate to lead the organization into the future.”
Chief Curtis has been with SMFR for over two decades and will advance to his new position from his current role as Deputy Chief of Emergency Services, where he oversees “operations, EMS, dispatch, fleet services, and special operations, ensuring opera tional excellence while advocating for fire service priorities at the local, state, and federal levels.”
A graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute, Chief Curtis holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology, from the University of Colorado.
In accepting the appointment, Chief Curtis said, “I am honored and excited to step into this role. South Metro Fire Rescue is an outstanding organization, and it
has been a privilege to serve alongside our dedicated firefighters, staff, and community for nearly 20 years. I look forward to continuing our mission of providing exceptional service and ensuring the safety of the communities we serve.”
Outgoing SMFR Fire Chief Bob Baker let it be known on October 10, 2024 that he planned to hang up his boots in May 2025, after a 40-year career in the fire service, including 10 years as SMFR Chief. According to a report in firehouse.com, Baker “began his career with Parker, CO, Fire Protection District in 1982 (and) rose through the ranks as the community and department grew and was chief of operations when South Metro and Parker fire districts unified. He continued to serve
as operations chief of SMFR until he was named chief in 2014.”
A statement from SMFR accompanying Baker’s October 2024 retirement announcement said, “Under Chief Baker’s leadership, South Metro has become recognized worldwide for its outstanding service to the community. Only 13 fire departments in the U.S. and Canada are both accredited and rated Class 1 (the highest possible) for insurance purposes while serving a population of over 500,000 people - South Metro is one of those.
South Metro’s wellness programs promoting physical and mental well-being of first responders have become known globally as the best such programs anywhere in the world.”
himself. It is unknown whether that action backfired or the candidates the party endorsed were simply not favored by primary voters, but Williams lost his primary bid, as did 13 others of the 18 that the state party endorsed. He was also well known for calling other Republicans “RINOs” (Republican in name only) as well as less polite names, and taking various divisive actions during his two-year tenure. Williams drew what many felt was unnecessary ire from regular party members when he made social media posts assailing the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month last year, including sending out a graphic with a burning rainbow flag and a caption that said, “Burn all the #Pride flags.”
One of his final acts as party chair was to sue six prominent local Republicans, including Horn, which we reported in The Villager on February 20, 2025, over their attempts to oust him from his position after the LGBTQ+ debacle last year. Those attempts were unsuccessful and cost everyone, including the state party, significant legal fees, not to mention plenty of (figurative) spilled bad blood.
It is widely assumed that former Rep. Saine was Williams’ favored candidate to replace himself, because published reports stated that she planned to form a slate with the same vice-chair and secretary who served with Williams.
to be successful. To me, treating everyone like they are family is a staple that I stand by. If we can continue to nurture the culture that we have embedded within SMFR that we need to take care of one another like they are family, including our community, citizens, and our brothers and sisters at the department, we will continue to be successful.”
As he looked toward retirement, Baker wrote, ““As I close in on the end of my tenure as fire chief, I often think about what it means
Greenwood Village Mayor Emeritus Ron Rakowsky is a longtime friend and mentor to Chief Baker. The former mayor told The Villager, “We first met in the Spring of 2008 when I gave Bob, then Operations Chief of Parker Fire, an in-depth tour of Greenwood Village. In the fall of 2014, the South Metro Fire Board of Directors created several panels representing various South Metro Fire constituencies to review the candidates seeking to replace retiring Chief Dan Qualman. The panels then advised the SMFR Board as to their unanimously recommended successor to Chief Qualman, Bob Baker. I was honored to serve as a panel member.” He continued, “Chief Bob Baker concludes his 41 years in uniform as an acknowledged national leader of the Fire Service. His unique leadership is a case book study of how to be a Chief of Department who successfully balances competing demands of the various constituencies with whom he interacts. His success in satisfying those constituencies resulted in his notable tenure for his peers to emulate. I wish him Godspeed on the future chapters of his life.”
Rendering of NWSL team’s permanent home in Denver
Rendering of NWSL’s performance center and temporary stadium in Centennial\
Come worship with us at St. Thomas More Parish
Holy Thursday, April 17
7:00pm – Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Good Friday, April 18
3:00pm and 7:00pm – Celebration of the Lord’s Passion
Holy Saturday, April 19
8:15pm – Solemn Vigil of Easter
Easter Sunday, April 20
6:30am, 8:30am, 10:30am and *12:30pm Mass
*There will also be a Spanish Mass at 12:30pm
8035 S Quebec St | Centennial, CO | 80112 303.770.1155 | stthomasmore.org
Third 100-loss year unlikely for Rockies
The Colorado Rockies finished with a winning record in the 2025 Cactus League. At 17-15, they were exactly in the middle of the pack—eighth among 15 teams training in Arizona.
What does this mean for their 2025 season?
In itself, not much.
A year ago, the best team in the Cactus League won the World Series.
But the year before, the other Los Angeles team, the Angels, led the Cactus League with an 18-11 record (.621 percentage) and the Kansas City Royals finished second at 19-13 (.594).
Then the Angeles proceeded to finish fourth in the American League West, with 89 losses, and KC lost 106, second-worst in the majors.
How about the Rockies in that season?
Last spring, they won 17 and lost 12, second-best to those world champion Dodgers, yet lost 101 while LA was cruising.
As the investment disclaimer goes: Past performance is not an indicator of future success.
So, if Spring Training records aren’t a good predictor of the season to follow, what, if anything, can be made of springtime performances?
Antonio Senzatela gave reason to hope that he is heading for a solid season
after virtually two years on the shelf.
In six games he allowed just three earned runs and walked only four.
His first start last Saturday in Tampa, though, wasn’t exactly stellar—nine hits and two walks in four and-a-third innings.
Opening Day starter Kyle Freeland, on the other hand, “got his work in” during the spring. And, honestly, that’s the best that can be said.
Yet he was dominant against Tampa Bay last Friday, allowing only two baserunners in six shutout innings, striking out seven and throwing 53 strikes in 67 pitches.
Reliever Tyler Kinley raised hopes that he has regained the form he showed before his second elbow surgery two years ago by not allowing a run and striking out 10 in eight spring games.
Asked to hold Freeland’s 2-0 lead in the seventh inning of the first game the season, however, he managed only one out before he was replaced by Angel Chivilli. His line: three hits, a walk and two earned runs allowed.
No one should expect young Hunter Goodman to approach a .400 batting average, despite hitting .444 in 45 at bats in Arizona and leading the club in hits (20) and total bases (37).
But his three home runs and 10 runs batted in, along with improved defense, suggest he could be part of a strong catching tandem with veteran Jacob Stallings (.290, 2-9).
Rewarded with back-toback starts behind the plate to begin the season, he went 3-for-8 with two doubles then found himself hitting cleanup as the designated hitter Sunday and tying that game with a two-out single in the sixth.
The Rockies continue to hold their collective breath and hope for the best with Kris Bryant, saying they’ll use him as the designated hitter most of the time and avoid playing him in the field to try to prevent more back troubles.
But Bryant, who has played in only 159 games— combined—in the first three seasons of the $182-million, seven-year contract he signed with Colorado, had the fewest at bats (31) of any player on the opening day roster who was with the club for all of spring training.
He saw 31 pitches as the DH in the first two games and went 0-for-8 with three strikeouts, four fly balls, and an equally playable ground ball.
The hype touting Michael Toglia as a future Gold Glove first baseman began the day he arrived in Scottsdale. In the second game in Tampa, he showed why with several dazzling plays, including snaring a bad hop and firing to reliever Seth Halvorsen to prevent the tying run from scoring in the eighth and making a very difficult scoop to end the game.
Toglia, who showed power last season once he became the regular at first base, hit a team-high five home runs this spring. But he reached five strikeouts before his first hit and left Florida without a homer.
On the eve of the home opener, neither Spring Training nor the first series of the regular season tells us what the Rockies’ record will be after the last out in San Francisco on September 28.
My bottom line: the Rockies will not lose a hundred or more for the third straight year.
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
Dear Readers,
What are the benefits of using a trust—Part 2
A living or inter vivos, trust may be revocable or irrevocable, and it may be funded or unfunded. A funded living trust is an alternative to a will and to probate. In a funded living trust, a person, the Settlor, puts property and money into his or her trust during his or her lifetime for his or her benefit and possibly for the benefit of other family members. An unfunded living trust typically receives assets through a simple “pour-over will” following the Settlor’s death.
Most people who are able to manage their own financial affairs usually name themselves as Trustee of living trusts they establish. The Trustee’s duties are to invest the trust assets and make the assets and income available to the Settlor/ beneficiary during his or her life. Such a trust is almost always revocable, meaning that the Settlor can revoke or amend the trust as long as he or she is able.
In situations where the Settlor is also the Trustee, and he or she becomes dis-
Settlor will usually name a spouse, adult child, relative, friend or professional fiduciary as alternate trustees. When the Settlor/beneficiary dies, the trust often terminates, and the successor trustee will distribute the trust property to the beneficiaries, similar to the distributions in a will. In many instances, however, living trusts will continue for the benefit of the Settlor’s spouse and children and terminate at a later date.
What are the four key medical/estate plan documents you need now?
Many of my clients have asked what are the critical 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. 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;
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 iden-
tify the beneficiaries and the distributions 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, current Edition (Chapter 15A: Estate Planning, Clara Brown Shaffer, Esq.), which is a copyrighted publication and may be accessed and downloaded for free at: www.cobar.org/For-thePublic/Senior-Law-Handbook
early signs of hearing loss.
Because the public has a right to know
1st place - 2018, 2nd place - 2023
SPECIAL DISTRICTS
/s/David Solin
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
§1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Cherry Creek Vista Park and Recreation District, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that on March 5, 2025, before the May 6, 2025 regular election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S.
The following candidates are hereby declared elected:
Bernard Gehris 4-year term
Aaron Rodger Spencer 4-year term
Greg Mitarotonda 2-year term
Sarah E. E. Shepherd, Designated Election Official
Contact Person for the District: Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Telephone Number of the District: 303-482-1002
Address of the District: PO Box 359, Littleton, CO 80160 District Email: sees@ccrider.us
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11815
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF REGULAR ELECTION BY THE DESIGNATED ELECTION OFFICIAL FOR THE CHERRY CREEK VILLAGE WATER DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Cherry Creek Village Water District, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that at the close of business on March 4, 2025 there were not more candidates for Director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025, is hereby cancelled.
The following candidates are declared elected:
Cynthia Dormer Four Year Term
Eric M. Montag Four Year Term
Charles Edmund MacKean Two Year Term
Cherry Creek Village Water District
By: /s/ Crystal Schott, Designated Election Official
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11816
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
§1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104, 1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S.
The following candidates are declared elected for the following terms of office:
Name Term
Mark Lionberger Second Regular Election, May 2029
Catherine Clark Second Regular Election, May 2029
VACANT Second Regular Election, May 2029
/s/ David Solin
(Designated Election Official)
Contact Person for the District:David Solin
Telephone Number of the District:303-987-0835
Address of the District:141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, CO 80228
District Facsimile Number:303-987-2032 District Email:dsolin@sdmsi.com
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11817
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS §1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104, 1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 1, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S.
The
candidates are declared elected for the following terms of office:
May 2027
(Designated Election Official)
Contact Person for the District:David Solin
Telephone Number of the District:303-987-0835
Address of the District:141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, CO 80228
District Facsimile Number:303-987-2032
District Email:dsolin@sdmi.com
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11818
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS §1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Copperleaf Metropolitan District No. 4, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that on March 5, 2025, before the May 6, 2025, regular election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S
The following candidates are hereby declared elected:
Daniel Frank 4-year term
Tracy L Brooks 4-year term
/s/ Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Designated Election Official
Copperleaf Metropolitan District No. 4
Contact Person for the District: Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Telephone Number of the District: 303-482-1002
Address of the District: PO Box 359, Littleton, CO 80160
District Email: sees@ccrider.us
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11819
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
§1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Copperleaf Metropolitan District No. 6, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that on March 5, 2025, before the May 6, 2025, regular election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S
The following candidates are hereby declared elected:
Daniel Frank 4-year term
Uri Hoffman 2-year term Vacancy 4-year term
/s/ Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Designated Election Official
Copperleaf Metropolitan District No 6
Contact Person for the District: Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Telephone Number of the District: 303-482-1002
Address of the District: PO Box 359, Littleton, CO 80160
District Email: sees@ccrider.us
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11820
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS §1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Copperleaf Metropolitan District No. 3, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that on March 5, 2025, before the May 6, 2025 regular election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S
The following candidates are hereby declared elected:
Daniel Frank 4-year term
Tracy L Brooks 4-year term
By: /s/Sarah E. E. Shepherd, Designated Election Official
Contact Person for the District: Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Telephone Number of the District: 303-482-1002
Address of the District: PO Box 359, Littleton, CO 80160
District Email: sees@ccrider.us
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11821
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF REGULAR ELECTION BY THE DESIGNATED ELECTION OFFICIAL FOR THE COUNTRY HOMES METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Country Homes Metropolitan District, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that at the close of business on March 4, 2025 there were not more candidates for Director than offices
1st place - 2018
to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025, is hereby cancelled.
The following candidates are declared elected: Charles H. Kurtz Four Year Term Darren Myers Four Year Term Anne Hillary Two
Country
NOTICE
AND SANITATION DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Holly Hills Water and Sanitation District, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that at the close of business on March 4, 2025 there were not more candidates for Director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025, is hereby cancelled.
The following candidates are declared elected: Linda Rhea Four-Year Term
VacantFour Year Term Vacant Four Year Term
Holly Hills Water and Sanitation District
By: /s/ AJ Beckman, Designated Election Official
AVISO DE CANCELACIÓN DE LA ELECCIÓN REGULAR POR EL FUNCIONARIO ELECTORAL DESIGNADO PARA HOLLY HILLS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT
POR LA PRESENTE SE INFORMA al condado de Holly Hills Water and Sanitation District, Arapahoe County, Colorado, que al cierre de actividades del 4 de marzo de 2025 no había más candidatos a Director que cargos a cubrir, incluyendo los candidatos que presentaron declaraciones juradas por escrito de intención de ser candidatos; por lo tanto, por la presente se cancela la elección que debía hacerse el 6 de mayo de 2025.
Se declaran electos los siguientes candidatos: Linda Rheatérmino de Cuatro años Vacanttérmino de Cuatro años Vacanttérmino de Cuatro años
Holly Hills Water and Sanitation District
Por: /s/ AJ Beckman, Funcionario electoral designado
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11823
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF ELECTION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
KINGS POINT SOUTH METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to § 1-13.5-513(6), C.R.S., that, at the close of business on March 4, 2025, there were not more candidates than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates, for Kings Point South Metropolitan District No. 2 (the “District”). Therefore, the election for the District to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby cancelled.
The following candidates for the District are declared elected by acclamation:
Peter Niederman Until May 2027
The following offices remain vacant:
VACANT Until May 2029
VACANT Until May 2029
VACANT Until May 2029
/s/ Ashley B. Frisbie
Designated Election Official
Contact Person for District:
Megan J. Murphy, Esq. WHITE BEAR ANKELE TANAKA & WALDRON
Attorneys at Law 2154 E. Commons Avenue, Suite 2000 Centennial, Colorado 80122 (303) 858-1800
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11824
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
§1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Suburban Metropolitan District Arapahoe County, Colorado, that on March 5, 2025, before the May 6, 2025 regular election, there were not more candidates for director than
Continued on next page
offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S.
The following candidate is hereby declared elected: David A Komitor 4-year term Vacancy `4-year term
/s/ Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Designated Election Official
Contact Person for the District: Sarah E. E. Shepherd
Telephone Number of the District: 303-482-1002
Address of the District: PO Box 359, Littleton, CO 80160
District Email: sees@ccridPublished in The Villager Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11825
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
§1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Sundance Hills Metropolitan District, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that on March 5, 2025, before the May 6, 2025 regular election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S
The following candidates are hereby declared elected:
Gelman 4-year term
Gelman 4-year term Vacancy 2-year term
/s/ Sarah E. E. Shepherd, Designated Election Official
Contact Person for the District: Sarah E. E. Shepherd
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:
ASHER PUPO ROJAS and BENJAMIN COPODONNA ROJAS, Children, and concerning,
PAOLA ROJAS CETINA, ADOLFO PUPO BORJAS and PABLO COPODONNA Respondents.
Erinn Walz, Registration No. 43200 Assistant County Attorney Office of the Arapahoe County Attorney 14980 E. Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 ewalz@arapahoegov.com
303-636-1308
NOTICE OF PERMANENT ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY HEARING
Case No: 24JV30188
Division: 22
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the above captioned matter has been set for a Permanent Allocation of Parental Responsibility Hearing on APRIL 14, 2025, at 11:30 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.
The Arapahoe County District Court is holding hearings via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow
Telephone Number of the District: 303-482-1002
Address of the District: PO Box 359, Littleton, CO 80160
District Email: sees@ccrider.us
Published in The Villager Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11826
NOTICE OF MAIL BALLOT ELECTION FOR VERMILION CREEK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN and particularly to the electors of the Vermilion Creek Metropolitan District (“District”) of the County of Arapahoe, Colorado.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a regular election of the District shall be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The election is being conducted as a mail ballot election. The ballots will be mailed to the eligible electors of the District no earlier than 22 days prior to the election (April 14, 2025) and no later than 15 days prior to the election (April 21, 2025). The drop off location for the delivery of mail ballots and receipt of replacement ballots shall be located at 44 Cook Street, Suite 620, Denver, Colorado 80206, and shall be open Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. beginning at least 22 days prior to the election day and from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on election day.
At such election, the electors of the District shall vote for and against Ballot Question A and for Directors to serve the following terms of office on the Board of Directors of the District:
Two (2) Directors
One (1) Director
Four-Year Terms
Two-Year Term
The names of persons nominated and terms of office for which nominated are as follows:
A. Sue Birkhead Four-Year Term
John R. Fetters, III
By /s/ Kristin Z. Herndon Designated Election Official
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11827
NOTICE OF MAIL BALLOT ELECTION FOR VERMILION CREEK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN and particularly to the electors of the Vermilion Creek Metropolitan District No. 2 (“District”) of the County of Arapahoe, Colorado.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a regular election of the District shall be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The election is being conducted as a mail ballot election. The ballots will be mailed to the eligible electors of the District no earlier than 22 days prior to the election (April 14, 2025) and no later than 15 days prior to the election (April 21, 2025). The drop off location for the delivery of mail ballots and receipt of replacement ballots shall be located at 44 Cook Street, Suite 620, Denver, Colorado 80206, and shall be open Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. beginning at least 22 days prior to the election day and from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on election day.
At such election, the electors of the District shall vote for and against Ballot Question A and for Directors to serve the following terms of office on the Board of Directors of the District:
Two (2) Directors for Four-Year Terms
The names of persons nominated and terms of office for which nominated are as follows: A. Sue Birkhead Four-Year Term John R. Fetters, III Four-Year Term
VERMILION CREEK
METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2
Two-Year Term
Four-Year Term Gary Birkhead
VERMILION CREEK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
COURTS
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).
Respectfully submitted March 29, 2025.
Erinn Walz, #43200 Assistant County Attorney
Published in The Villager Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11812
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:
ASHER PUPO ROJAS and BENJAMIN COPODONNA ROJAS, Children, and concerning, PAOLA ROJAS CETINA, ADOLFO PUPO BORJAS and PABLO COPODONNA Respondents.
Erinn Walz, Registration No. 43200 Assistant County Attorney Office of the Arapahoe County Attorney 14980 E. Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 ewalz@arapahoegov.com 303-636-1308
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT
Case No: 24JV30188
Division: 22
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent, ADOLFO PUPO BORJAS, is set for April 14, 2025, at 11:30 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 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
Legal Notices:
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.
Respectfully submitted March 29, 2025.
Erinn Walz, #43200
Assistant County Attorney
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11813
By /s/ Kristin Z. Herndon
Designated Election Official
Published in The Villager
Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11828
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF ELECTION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
WILLOW TRACE METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to § 1-13.5-513(6), C.R.S., that, at the close of business on March 4, 2025, there were not more candidates than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates, for Willow Trace Metropolitan District (the “District”). Therefore, the election for the District to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby cancelled.
The following candidates for the District are declared elected by acclamation:
Joseph Blethen Until May 2029
Tim Shively Until May 2029
The following office remains vacant:
Vacant Until May 2027
/s/ Ashley B. Frisbie
Designated Election Official
Contact Person for District:
George M. Rowley, Esq. WHITE BEAR ANKELE TANAKA & WALDRON
Attorneys at Law 2154 E. Commons Avenue, Suite 2000 Centennial, Colorado 80122 (303) 858-1800
Published in The Villager Published: April 3, 2025 Legal # 11829
ARAPAHOE COUNTY
CHERRY CREEK REPUBLICAN WOMEN GENERAL MEETING/ LUNCHEON
APRIL 8, 11:00 a.m. Double tree by Hilton, Denver Tech Center, Greenwood Village. Speaker: Stephanie Piko, Centennial Mayor, speaking on”Colorado Cities: The Best of Times/The Worst of Times.”$36.00 RSVP by April 4 www.cherrycreekrepublicanwomen. org or 303-475-9148. Last meeting before Summer Break is May 13. A Silent Auction will be held to raise money for Arapahoe County Republican Candidates. Looking for donated items for the Silent Auction. Contact Antonette Smith - adspatriot1776@gmail. com
CENTENNIAL AIRPORT NOISE COMPATIBILITY STUDY PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE
WED., APRIL 9, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Greenwood Village Maintenance Facility - Mt. Elbert Room, 10001 E. Costilla Ave., Greenwood Village. The purpose of the meeting is to share the progress and work products of the Study completed since the first public meeting and gather input from the public. Stop in between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m. to view display boards with Study information and speak with staff. There will be no formal presentation. Questions and comments can be submitted in person during the meeting or online at https://apa150noicestudy.com/contact
SOUTH SUBURBAN PARKS & RECREATION EGG SCRAMBLE
APRIL 19, 8:30-11 a.m. at the Sports Dome, 6959 S. Peoria St., Centennial. Children 12 and under are invited to meet the Easter Bunny, race for eggs. Sponsored by the City of Centennial and free to attend. Arive early. No registration is required. One parent or guardian per participant is permitted. Bring a basket without artificial grass or straw.
DENVER SOUTH 2025 ANNUAL EVENT
WED. APRIL 23, 10:30-1:00 p.m. Denver Marriott South at Park Meadows. Speaker: Keith Ferrazzi, New York Times Bestselling Author of “Never Eat Alone” and Team Coach. Reservations: 303-792-9447.
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: 303-3282350 or georgia_reiss@adv4children.org
SOUTH SUBURBAN PARKS &
Genesis
RECREATION ANNAL ROSE PRUNING WORKSHOP
APRIL 26 , 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. at 5804 S. Bemis St. - the War Memorial Rose Garden. Free, but must RSVP. BGrubb@ssprd.org
FRIENDS OF NURSING AWARDS
LUNCHEON
SATURDAY, APRIL 26 . Friends of Nursing will award $170,000 in scholarships to 36 exemplary nursing students at Cherry Hills Country Club, 4125 S. University. Blvd., Cherry Hills Village. These students attend Colorado Schools of Nursing and plan to remain in Colorado benefiting our Colorado communities. For ticket info: call 720-8913412. Long-time friend, Rick Crandall, will Emcee and Friends of Nursing will celebrate the 100th Birthday of Past President and current Publicity Chair, LaFawn Biddle.
DENVER HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE
SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 2-4 p.m. Babi Yar Park in Denver, 1045 E.Yale Ave., Denver
CANCER LEAGUE LOOKING FOR NOMINATIONS
The Funds Allocation and Nominating Committees are to be submitted electronically this year. Submit by email to Barb Reece, Nominating Committee Chair, at Barbarasreece@aol.com by Monday, March 31 st 5:00 p.m. for inclusion on the ballot to be voted on at the General CLC Membership Meeting on April 10. Info: 303-478-4802.
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 schedule a tour and enjoy lunch on the Village. Located at 133801 E. Yale Ave., Aurora.
MEET MARIA SCRIVAN - AUTHOR OF ‘NATIONAL ENOUGH’
MAY 1, 6-7 p.m. at Arapahoe Libraries. Hosted on the zoom platform. “New York Times” bestseller author tells about her struggles with not fitting in and other topics. RSVP: Scan the QR code in their advertisement on page 2 of The Villager APRIL 3 issue.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY “CHALK LINES & VINES”
MAY 3 & 4. Art Festival at the Fairgrounds (Indoors). Tickets: Scan QR Code in Arapahoe County advertisement in The Villager.
SOUTH SUBURBAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
MAY 6, 7 am - 7 pm for machine voting: South Suburban Sports Complex, 4810 E. County Line Road, Littleton. The five-member Board of Directors is elected at large, on a non-partisan basis. Voters will vote for three candidates. Thirteen individuals have filed as candidates. Applications for absentee-ballots are available and may be obtained online or at the Administration Office, 4810 E. County Line Road, Littleton until 4 pm on Tuesday, April 29. A ballot drop off box is located at Goodson Recreation Center and the South Suburban Sports Complex. Questions: elections@ssprd. org or call 303-483-7011.
SOUTH METRO CHAMBER TO SHOWCASE CHAMBER NONPROFITS
MAY 7, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Lone Tree Arts Center. Nonprofits will pitch to a panel of Sharks. A portion of proceeds will benefit all participating nonprofits. Presenters: Adoption Options, The Right Step, Grace Counseling and Women’s Adventure Club. Exhibitors: Make Mental Health Matter, Warrior Bonfire Program, Tall Tales Ranch and Bridge House. Open to members and the public. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres, cocktails available for purchase. Tickets: 303-795-0142 or info@bestchamber.com
SAVE THE DATE - MIZEL INSTITUTE 2025 HONOREES
THURSDAY, MAY 22 . Honoring Bonnie & David Mandarich. 2024 honoree was Peyton Manning.
COLORADO FREEDOM MEMORIAL 12TH ANNUAL COLORADO REMEMBERS CEREMONY
MAY 24 for all WW2 Veterans to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the end of WWII. All WWII Veterans will be recognized and honored with a special gift, according to CFM Founder &CEO, Rick Crandall. Reservation: Call 303-248-3990. The Colorado Freedom Memorial is located at Aurora’s Memorial Park at 756 Telluride St.
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 720-3777682.
WHAT’S NEW? RENEW YOUR VEHICLE REGISTRATION
Renewal kiosks are fast, easy and issue you
G90 truly is luxury at its best
I’ve been test driving the granddaddy of the Hyundai fleet with the luxury line of Genesis vehicles assembled in Ulsan, Ko rea. This is the top of the lineup with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $102,750. This G90 has elegant “Verbier” white exterior paint with a black and tan “ Bordeaux” leather adorned interior. Every safety option developed by the auto industry is included in the standard features of the G90 sedan. The only additional price is the “Verbier” white paint.
The exterior and interior will compete with any of the luxury foreign brands. After a week’s careful test drive, I’ve enjoyed the many intricate features like the front seat bolsters and massage. The doors are like safe vault doors, heavy and covered with the leather upholstery and the doors open by a push button; no door handle on this beauty. The door handles extend outward with the arrival of the igni-
tags on the spot? Go to COMVExpress.com to find a location near you.
WHAT’S NEW? DENVER MUSEUM OF NATURE & SCIENCE LAUNCHES EAST WING PROJECT
A $20 million gift from the Sturm Family Foundation will rejuvenate the historic theater, lobby and plaza. Construction begins in April 2025 causing the Infinity Theater to close starting April 8 to late July. The rest of the Museum will remain open. Now open is Angkor: The Lost Empire of Cambodia.
front and rear seats with massage
leather surfaces, and a leatherette wrapped upper-instrument panel.
and a windshield headsup display of speed and safety signage. 3D Bang & Olufsen premium sound, and wireless phone chargers front and rear.
Safety features galore and a screen shot of the rear blind spots when signaling a turn, really a good safety feature along with the 360-degree surround view monitor, so good in tight parking lots with an expensive sedan.
Genesis has the famed Hyundai factory warranty of 10 year/ 100,000 mile-power train warranty , so important with the turbo- engine’s lifeline.
Only time will tell about foreign tariff impacts on these cars but the tariffs could increase the price of foreign cars in the U.S. market. The tariffs apparently will apply to parts such as engines and transmissions shipped into the U.S. even if the vehicle is assembled with American labor.
This G90 is luxury at its best, at any price.
By H. Throttle
As
Taxes and relocating in retirement: What to think about now
You may dream of moving in retirement for any one of several reasons: warmer weather, plentiful golf courses or pickleball courts, affordable real estate, top-notch medical centers. But for many retirees looking to pick up stakes, taxes are a big reason one state wins out over another.
And that can be a smart way of thinking. “If you live in a high-tax state and are considering relocating in retirement, it could make financial sense to move to one that would reduce your tax liability,” says Vinay Navani, CPA and shareholder at WilkinGutenplan.
A lot of people looking to reduce their month-to-month retirement expenses gravitate toward states without an individual income tax. Currently, seven states belong in that category: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming. Two more states Washington and New Hampshire do not tax personal wages. However, Washington has a capital gains tax for capital gains over $250,000 from the sales of stocks, bonds and certain other capital assets and New Hampshire taxes interest and dividend income in excess of personal exemptions.
“Of course, there are plenty of other reasons for people nearing retirement to explore relocating,” says Ben Storey, director, Retirement Research & Insights at Bank of America. “You may want to move closer to family or live in a warmer climate, for instance. But the financial implications of your choice should play a large role as you begin to plan your retirement budget.”
Before you start scanning the real estate listings for Fairbanks, Alaska, or Fort Worth, Texas, here are some tax-related factors you might want to think about.
You get less relief from high state taxes than you once did. The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act capped allowable state and local tax deductions, including property tax, at $10,000 (for individuals and married couples, filing jointly). “As a result, people who live in states with high taxes, such as New Jersey, New York or California, may no longer be able to deduct all of their state taxes paid on their federal return,” Navani says. Because of that, some are finding that they owe more in federal income tax. Your cost of living could be higher in a low-tax state. “You cannot look at relocating in a tax vacuum,” Navani says. Look at the overall prices in the area where you are considering relocating everything from utilities and groceries to healthcare costs and your car and homeowners insurance. Low-tax states can make up for lost revenue in other ways that could impact your budget. Several of the states without an individual income tax compensate by implementing a higher state sales tax or other taxes, including taxes on necessities such as gasoline, or charging more for state services such as driver’s licenses or car registrations. Those hidden costs could have a real impact on your budget.
Local property taxes also vary widely even within a state and a state with low (or even no) income taxes may have pockets where homeowners are hit with relatively high property taxes.
“One way to get a clearer idea of the tax implications of relocating is to ask your tax professional to run a projection of what your tax picture might look like in the new location,” Navani suggests.
A new state might treat your retirement income differently. Above certain adjusted gross income levels (plus certain modifications), you could owe federal income taxes on a portion of your Social Security benefits. But at the state level, the rules vary, with some states matching the federal approach and others exempting Social Security benefits from state income taxes (often pegged to your total income).
Another potential tax issue to explore is how your new state might treat your pension payments for income tax purposes. Among states that collect income taxes, some states may exclude all or a portion of qualifying pension income from state taxes. Your home state should play into your estate planning. Looking ahead to how your beneficiaries will fare, you may want to compare estate or inheritance taxes in your current and future home states. Most states do not impose these taxes, but in those that do, state taxes may kick in well before federal estate taxes will.
“In addition to talking to a tax expert, be sure to consult your financial advisor about the impact that relocating could have on your retirement strategy, as well as your bigger financial picture,” Storey adds. “Speaking with an advisor can help give you a sense of how your expenses and income could shape your lifestyle if you decide to move.”
For more information, contact
Merrill Financial Advisor Andrew Neal in the Greenwood Village, CO, office at 303.689.8043 or andrew.neal@ml.com.