On May 3, the members of the Arapahoe County Republican Breakfast Club hosted Pam Benigno, director of education policy at
Jon Caldara’s Independence Institute, which describes itself as a libertarian think tank who shared her views on social and culture issues in Colorado’s public schools.
Benigno opened with, “I’m going to have to give you the tough stuff of what your little grandkids and your older grandkids are deal-
ing with at school.” She continued, “Your children are in a battle right now to have the right to protect their children… I know a mom in Jefferson County who took her only child out (of public school), because in second grade, three kids were transitioning.”
Benigno told her audience that the source of this behavior is, “queer theory,” which she described as having “been active for years, trying to turn what’s normal upside down…You can be one thing one day and something else another day. They don’t want normal…Gender is fluid.”
She talked about HB19-1032 Comprehensive Human Sexuality Education, signed into law four years ago, which she said made abstinence only education illegal in public schools.
After pointing to a third-grade level storybook that she described as being part of public school curriculum, that tells the story of two men falling in love, and the parents of one being happy because their son had found love, Benigno turned to social studies standards that were changed by HB19-1192 Inclusion of American Minorities in Teaching Civil Government, also passed four years ago.
She said, “For decades, we have been required to teach the historical contributions of minorities in our country, as we should, but it was decided that we need to put that into social studies standards. We needed a commission that was going to advise and we needed resources for teachers. A Republican (who she later identified as former State Rep. Colin Larsen) in the House Education Committee decided that LGBTQ individuals should be included in that list, and he pushed and he pushed and he pushed until finally it was in there.”
“The law says,” she continued, “This educational commission
is to make recommendations to include the history, culture, and social contributions of American Indians, Latinos, African-Americans, and Asian Americans, the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals within these minority groups, the contributions and persecution of religious minorities, and the intersectionality of significant social and cultural features within these communities, in the teaching and content standard for history and civics.”
As a result, Benigno reported, social studies standards in Colorado for preschool now include, “By the end of the preschool experience, students may show interest in interacting with developing relationships with others, including those that are African-American, Latino, Asian-American, Hawaiian and Pacific Islander indigenous peoples and LGBTQ and religious minorities.” She continued, “Putting LGBTQ aside, I’m not real happy about focusing on groups so much, and you (her audience) all get that. These are all individuals. Little kids don’t usually look at color. They just love each other, which concerns me here because when Bobby and Johnny on the playground really love each other and Bobby reads this book (about two men who fall in love each of them will think), that means, I guess I’m going to marry him some day.”
Social studies standards for first grade, Benigno said, say that kids “discuss common and unique characteristics of different cultures,” adding, “Hopefully they’ll talk about foods and dances, but this opens the door for more, doesn’t it?”
Benigno pointed to standards in first grade civics that talk about “symbols of diverse community groups,” including the American flag, the national anthem, Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, and the
Emancipation Proclamation,” posing the question, “Emancipation Proclamation? First grade?”
Moving to current issues, Benigno said, “School districts have transitioning plans for kids. Some let the parents know. Some don’t…If you’re in Jefferson County and you’re a high school kid and you don’t want your parents to know that you’re transitioning, the school doesn’t tell (them). If you’re in elementary school and it’s being disruptive in school that you’re transitioning, then they tell the parents. I guess that means that if it’s not disruptive to their education, then they don’t tell the parents.”
The Oxford dictionary defines transitioning as to “adopt permanently the outward or physical characteristics that match one’s gender identity, as opposed to those associated with the sex registered at birth.” Dictionary. com defines transitioning as, “To change from one gender identity to another or to align one’s dress, behavior, etc. with one’s gender identity.” It is difficult to imagine how this behavior could apply to young children. It is likewise difficult to imagine how it could apply to teens, without their parents’ knowledge, if they live at home.
A June 2022 study by the UCLA School of Law that used recent data from the CDC’s Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System and Youth Risk Behavior Survey indicates that, across the state of Colorado, there are a total of 4,200 individuals aged 13-17 who identify as transgender, which is one-third of one percent of the total population under the age of 18. The study also indicates that 27,000 adults in our state identify as transgender, constituting just over one-half of one percent of the adult population.
Across the country, the UCLA researchers determined there are 1.6 million people ages 13+ who identify as transgender, which is less than one-half of one percent of the total U.S. population. fmiklin.villager@gmail.com
Lima Peru is not considered a travel hot spot, instead a stopping point to Machu Pichu or the Amazon. While those are spectacular final destinations, don’t overlook Lima as its own vacation spot.
I had the opportunity to travel there to celebrate my birthday a couple of months ago, toasting another year. It’s a relatively easy journey from Denver, flying United to Houston, then a second flight to Lima. Two hours to Houston and six addi-
tional hours to Lima. One can also fly Delta through Atlanta or American through Miami.
Lima is in the Southern Hemisphere so expect the opposite seasons but sitting on the Pacific, there is always a warm and humid sea breeze. We stayed in the Miraflores section of Lima, known for good hotels, restaurants, shopping, and views of the Pacific. It is centrally located and perfect for a short stay Fresh fish and seafood are in abundance, in the
form of ceviche of all varieties. Grilled octopus was also a delicious treat. Pisco sours are the drink of choice in Lima, although the passionfruit pisco sour was amazing. If you want to skip alcohol, try a chicha morada, a flavorful purple corn-based drink. As an agricultural country, there are an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. For coffee drinkers there are plenty of coffee shops. The local specialty is café con leche, or coffee with milk, the ratio of coffee to milk up to you. South America is known for great coffee beans. You might remember the Juan
Valdez commercials for Columbian coffee in the 1980s.
Prices are surprisingly good compared to similar fare in any American city. Most Uber rides were only a few dollars. A city tour, either on foot or a hop-on, hop-off bus is a great way to see the city. Other fun stops included the JFK Park in Miraflores, a small city park populated by cats, mostly basking in the sun and hoping for someone to pet them or scratch behind their ears.
Lima also has a robust Chinatown, surprising for a South American country Chinese immigrants set-
tled into the Bario Chino area of Lima in the 1850s. If you want great beef, add a few hours to your flight and head to Buenos Aires where the steak houses eclipse anything in the Tech Center in terms of flavor and price. For Lima, enjoy the fresh fish and seafood that is better than anything you will find in Denver
Lima is close enough to make a 3–4-day trip worthwhile. It is a bit of airplane time, but the food and climate are a nice break from the dry and often cold temperatures of Denver. Add it to your travel bucket list!
Abraham Lincoln would have been proud of his Arapahoe County cohorts Saturday, June 3, as his political party celebrated the president who freed the slaves at the historic Lincoln Day Dinner. The event was held in Greenwood Village at the DoubleTree Hotel to a sold- out crowd of over 200 Republicans.
BY BOB SWEENEY
al Council members and the enthusiasm of auctioneer Jurinsky, assisted by dinner Master of Ceremonies Jimmy Sengenberger. In more fundraising activities, iconic realtor Edie Marks, for a second year in a row, won the “Heads and Tails” competition for a gift certif-
on the scene as lead agent minutes after the assassination attempt on the president at the Washington Hilton hotel. He spoke very highly of President Reagan and his great personality and leadership.
Baker has just authored a book entitled, “The Fall of the FBI,” and detailed highlights of his book to an intrigued audience. He
during his lengthy successful career. He relates, “it is a hard road back.”
EDITOR
Gerri Sweeney gerri@villagerpublishing.com
PUBLISHER
Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR
Susan Sweeney Lanam 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com
VICE PRESIDENT/MARKETING
Sharon Sweeney sharon@villagerpublishing.com
LEGALS
Becky Osterwald legal@villagerpublishing.com
The Arapahoe County GOP didn’t have much to celebrate losing every political race in both county and state contests. New leadership was displayed by county chairman Anne Rowland, the Grand Old Party had an evening of fun, vigor, and lively festivities, raising considerable funds from spirited events. While the past election was bleak for the GOP awaiting the “Red Wave,” that never arrived, the future appears to be brighter moving rapidly towards the presidential election in 2024. Can the party unite on a candidate?
The evening began with an invocation by Jono Scott, seeking election to the Aurora City council November 7, 2023. He joins Mayor Mike Coffman who is also running for re-election. George Lantz is running for re-election as mayor of Greenwood Village.
Highlight of the evening fundraising was the auction of a dinner with four Aurora city council members at Legends Sports Bar in Aurora. A large number of Centennial City Council members, led by Mayor Stephanie Piko, joined the lively bidding conducted by Aurora City Council member Danielle Jurinsky. The small dinner party blossomed into a major event with brisk bidding from Centenni-
icate from Jake Jab’s American Furniture.
Highlight of the memorable evening were newly elected County Chair Anne Rowland, swinging a guitar, and daughter Dani Rowland singing the National Anthem. Later in the evening they performed “God Bless America” accompanied by Aurora star performer Stephanie Hancock with Sengenberger playing his harmonica.
However, the best was still to come with the evening program by the keynote speaker Thomas J. Baker, now a Colorado resident residing in Basalt, a career FBI agent, who spoke about his FBI career, especially about his experiences with President Ronald Reagan. He was
spoke about the recent 300-page Durham report he read, not revealing a single justification of evidence connecting President Trump to any Russian conspiracy. He also detailed the challenges in the FBI after the September ll, 2011 attack on the Wolrd Trade Center. He related that President Bush asked the FBI at that time to protect America against any future attacks. This, according to Baker, changed the FBI culture from a law enforcement agency to an investigative organization with major increases in American surveillance, contrary in Baker’s mind, to the Constitutional freedoms of American citizens that he had been trained to protect
Baker was very impressive and his book can be purchased online from Amazon/ThomasJBakerBook.com. The lead entry into the book describes “How the Mueller-Comey cabal turned the FBI from a “swear to tell the truth law-enforcement agency to a politicized intelligence organization.”
The Greenwood Village DoubleTree Hotel did a yeoman’s job of presenting a warm venue for the event with ample parking and good service. An extensive silent auction was full of treasures including a Ronald Reagan tie. The usual volunteer GOP ladies did the heavy lifting chaired by Lynne Cottrell, assisted in many details by Andi Allott, Karen Blilie, Evie Ashmore, Caroline Cornell, Jewell Hargrave, Jimmy Sengenberger, and Carol Waller.
Missing in action were a number of Arapahoe County and statewide candidates who lost in the past election. Kudos to those who lost and still attended the dinner putting political beliefs before personal gain.
It appears that the new GOP County Chair Anne Rowland is a strong leader and put on a very successful annual Lincoln Day Dinner. It was a blast.
NEWS EDITOR Gerri Sweeney 303-773-8313 gerri@villagerpublishing.com
GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER Freda Miklin fmiklin.villager@gmail.com 303-489-4900
REPORTER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
FASHION & LIFESTYLE
Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com
DESIGN/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Tom McTighe production@villagerpublishing.com
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
Susan Lanam — 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com
Sharon Sweeney — 303-503-1388
Gerri Sweeney — 720-313-9751 gerri@villagerpublishing.com
Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com
Linda Kehr — 303-881-9469 linda@villagerpublishing.com
Valerie LeVier — 303-773-8313 valerie@villagerpublishing.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Susan 720-270-2018
PHOTOGRAPHER
Stefan Krusze — 303-717-8282 octaviangogoI@aol.com
EDITORIAL COLUMNIST
Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
The Villager is an award-winning, locally owned, independent newspaper. All letters to the editor must be signed. The contributor’s name, hometown and phone number must also accompany all letters to the editor for verification and we reserve the right to edit contributions for space. We attempt to verify all matters of fact but hold contributors liable for the content, accuracy and fairness of their contributions. All submissions become the property of The Villager and may be reused in any medium.
Reverend Martin Niemoller
“In Germany, the Nazis first came for the communists and I didn’t speak up because wasn’t a communist. Then they came for the Jews and didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists and didn’t speak up because wasn’t a trade unionist. Then they came for the Catholics and I didn’t speak up because was a Protestant. Then they came for me and by that time there was no one left to speak for me!”
2020 Member
Marriage is a wonderful institution, but who wants to live in an institution?
– Groucho MarxKeynote speaker Thomas J. Baker’s new book is entitled, The Fall of the FBI
Life is never the same after a loved one dies. A broken rhythm of a 5-minute check-in call on the way to the office or the celebration of a birthday are jarring reminders of her passing. Grieving is universal, but what is grieving exactly. Is it a process, a skill, or a pathway to something?
Some experts choose to describe grieving as a form of learning or creating new habits around a loss. Grieving involves creating an adaptation mechanism in the heart and the brain. First, the wave of intense emotions gives rise to memories and the inevitability of change. Change is manifested in what we miss.
What I miss is the constant pep talks she gave me. “Honey, you are changing the world one person, one relationship at a time.” Don’t let them get you down.” “Stand strong.” “Follow your heart.” “You are smart.” Because of her positivity and strength, even though I long to hear those words,
they are embedded in my spirit. I feel like she is duct-taped to my skin and that comforts my soul. Neuroscientists opine that when one experiences a loss, they do not need to be cheered up, they need to emote, remember and be listened to with compassion and kindness. They need words of healing and support. These words surround the brain in a warm bath of calmness and connectedness which reduces sadness and anxiety. Being anticipatory about little blessings and miracles is also helpful for healing.
Recently I was coming home from a speaking engagement in Columbus, Georgia on my mom’s birthday. I had a threehour layover at the airport and there was a Brighton store close to the ladies’ restroom. During the time that I was caring for Mom in my home, I had somehow misplaced my way-too-expensive sunglasses. In the store was a pair of lovely sunglasses.
I grappled with paying a hundred dollars for sunglasses that I lose. I argued with myself and then went, sans glasses, to the gate. Since I had to use the ladies’ room again, I stopped into the store just to take another peak. Nope, I would not buy these and dutifully went back to my seat. There seemed to be a force pulling me back to the shop. I went into the store one more time, tried on the glasses and silently made a pledge to never take them out of my car and to take care of them. I did it. Yikes, I just bought them. With sunglasses in hand, I rested in my seat ready to get home. I took out the change purse that belonged to my mom. I used it to store my earbuds. She had a little cross in a tiny handknit holder When I went to get my earbuds out of the change purse, the cross had fallen out, and it was replaced with a tightly folded one-hundred-dollar bill. That was not there before. I was so moved, I started to weep. My mom bought me an extravagant gift on her birthday! I love miracles!
joneen@myrelationshipcenter.org
The Littleton Colorado Elks Lodge #1650 held a Charity Ball on February 24 that raised $12,169.50 for local charity, The Right Step, an equine center for children with disabilities, veterans and mental health opportunities. Heavy appetizers followed by a dance and silent auction brought more than 100 people to the Elks Lodge for the event. Si-
lent auction items included items such as VRBO vacations, Colorado Avalanche hockey tickets, gift baskets and gift cards.
“The Charity Ball is a lot of hard work, we enjoy reaching out for community support and have a lot of fun,” said Kathy Howell, chairperson for the event. “The rewards to giving back to our community is worth every minute.”
1st Annual Colorado Golf Club Memorial benefits Folds of Honor – golf tournament, dinner, auction and more!
I didn’t know it was proper to have 13 folds in our precious American flag so the bright stars shown in the completed triangle. Each fold signifying a deep and special meaning! I didn’t know about the non-profit, so appropriately named, Folds of Honor. I didn’t know about its mission to provide life-changing educational scholarships to families of America’s fallen or disabled
military or now - first responders. After hearing the story of Karenmarie and (ret.) Navy SEAL Mike Barker and others, I know it’s a most worthy non-profit that garnered an impressive number of sponsors and supporters for its first fundraiser in Colorado. I feel compelled to spread awareness since it touched my heart. Mike Barker sustained many injuries during his 21 years of service and Folds of Honor provided hope never imagined - opportunities for his children to attend college and excel in every aspect of life. Alexandra graduated
from the University of California Santa Barbara with a chemistry degree and is currently a postgraduate Folds of Honor Recipient applying to a PA school. Taylor is a Folds of Honor Recipient who recently graduated from the University of Colorado-Boulder and is aspiring to be a flight surgeon for the United States Air Force. Mikee finished his third year at Colorado School of Mines as a Folds of Honor Recipient where he studies mechanical engineering and plays Division II football. That’s just one story!
“I am honored by so many amazing patriots who were at the CGC Memorial event. They helped fund 54 educational sponsorships for Folds of Honor recipients with their generous donations.”
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Karenmarie Barker, Regional Impact OfficerColoradoBeautiful Colorado Golf Club (CGC) in Parker, Colorado where the fundraiser was held Courtesy of Ellie Sanders Photo A bagpiper greets guests for the daylong festivities Courtesy of Ellie Sanders Photo Photos courtesy of Ellie Sanders Photo Son Mikee, daughter Alexandra, wife Karenmarie and daughter Taylor surround (ret.) Navy SEAL Mike Barker Courtesy of the Barker Family RIGHT: Long-time Colorado Golf Club (CGC) members Dave and Tricia Lanoha were hosts Photo by Scottie Iverson BELOW: Mike and Karenmarie Barker with Folds of Honor VP of Development Larry Robinson Photo by Scottie Iverson PROUDLY SPONSORED BY 11TH FOLD OF THE FLAG Skydivers, including Isaiah Mariang, added to the excitement of opening ceremonies Title Sponsor Steamboat Powdercats marked the 11th hole (fold) and others
1st Place Golf Tourney winners were: Norton Rainey, Erik Billinger, Matt Turner and Tony DeSimone. 2nd Place winners were: Reed Smith, Nicole Smith, Grant Eckhardt and Stacey Eckhardt. Every detail of the fundraiser was unique. The dinner celebration included more testimonials and meaningful information about Folds of Honor and instead of a collection of baseball cards – a collection of Hero Cards were distributed. My Hero Card was a photo in uniform of U.S. Army Sgt. Gary A. “Andy” Eckert, Jr. who
had received a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts and, coincidentally, was from my home state of Ohio. Auction items were also rare: skydiving as a tandem passenger for next year’s Memorial event, a custom Folds of Honor Tomahawk created by former Navy SEAL Andy Arrabito, a 777 Resco Watch skydived into seven continents by (ret.) Navy SEAL Mike Barker setting a world record to raise money to honor fallen brothers on each continent and Hole 16 Waste Management Sky Box for four.
There are over one million disabled and fallen service members affected by war. Nearly two million dependants of military heroes are affected by war. More than $9 Billion is the cost to provide educational scholarships to dependants of all fallen and disabled service members. Folds of Honor is rated 4 out of 4 Stars by Charity Navigator and Platinum designation on GuideStar. For more information, donations and sponsorship: 757-5102666 (Karenmarie Barker) or foldsofhonor.org. The Right Stuff. The Golden Rule.
ABOVE: Country music artist Andy Velo was the evening’s muchanticipated finale. He grew up in northern Georgia and relocated to Nashville to pursue his music career. The morning after the Folds of Honor fundraiser, he was interviewed on Great Day Colorado and sang his 2022 song “Dying Breed.” His latest song “You Can Share Mine” is out now.
The Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem (MOTJ) had an opening ceremony on April 27 as part of the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel. The chair of the museum is Larry Mizel, longtime head of MDC Holdings, who is also the former chair of the Simon Wiesenthal Foundation in Los Angeles.
Along with Mizel, other notable Denver personalities participated in opening events including Norm Brownstein of Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP and Gary Reece, MDC board member and retired company CFO, who is best known as the major force, along with his wife Barb, behind the Cancer League of Colorado, a unique charitable organization with no paid employees, no offices, and no overhead—every dollar contributed goes to fight cancer You can read all about the League’s 2023 Hope Ball that raised over $800,000 (including $200,000 from MDC) for cancer research and support of cancer victims in the May 25 issue of The Villager.
MOTJ “is located in the holy city of three major religions. Dedicated to promoting tolerance and human dignity, the museum shares lessons from world history and universal Jewish values, while creating powerful dialogue between individuals from all cultures and religions.”
It will serve as an “international embassy for peace… (where) individuals from all walks of life will gather and enact change based on shared universal values. Together, they will challenge racism, antisemitism, discrimination, stereotypes, hatred, and acts of verbal and physical violence-- and create a better tomorrow.”
Reece told The Villager, “Larry (Mizel) has been working on MOTJ for over 20 years…After they got the (three acres of) land to build the museum and started getting permits to begin construction, they found out that the ground they planned to build the museum on was a Muslim burial ground.” That controversy resulted in a years-long negotiation between members of different faiths that was finally resolved by the Israel Supreme Court in 2008.
The contemporary-styled 185,000-square-foot structure includes interactive exhibits focused on topics of tolerance in everyday life, rather than being focused on the Holocaust, since that subject matter is the Raison d’être of the Yad Vashem Museum, also located in Jerusalem.
Exhibits will include a Faith Pavilion, which will contain interactive features that “examine how Judaism and other religions maintain faith in the face of oppression and personal adversity.”
The Scholarship Pavilion will feature a Hologram theater that offers an encounter with Maimonides, a renowned 14th century scholar, philosopher and physician, along with another interactive exhibit, “Chat with the Great Thinkers” of the last century
The “Standing Up to Evil Pavilion” will have a curved screen that tells stories of “courageous men and women such as Raul Wallenberg, Natan Sharansky, and Malala Yousafzai,” who showed courage under difficult circumstances.
The Areivut Pavilion will showcase “heroes and the tradition of shared responsibility for
others…throughout the world,” to demonstrate the principle, “I Am My Brother’s Keeper.”
The work of people like Dr. Jonas Salk, Dr. Martin Luther
will be told in the Respect for Humanity Pavilion.
MOTJ also includes two indoor theaters and a 1,000-seat state-of-the art outdoor amphitheater built around a preserved
ancient aqueduct that will be used for special events such as musical concerts, literary presentations, first run movie screenings, and dramatic performances.
The Grand Hall at MOTJ is a multi-use facility that can accommodate 500 for a seated banquet and 800 for a seated lecture. It also boasts spectacular views of the city of Jerusalem.
MOTJ has an 8,000-square foot Children’s Museum, which is an adventure area for children ages 3-10 to come together through play, highlighting core values central to Jewish life that apply to all faiths. There
is also a Voices for Tolerance “immersive exhibit that high-
lights the story of Anne Frank and two other young heroines,
one Christian and one Muslim, as global iconic voices for tolerance and human dignity All three showed a passion and belief in humanity, fairness, respect, and making the world a better place as a result of the wars and genocides that denied each of them their childhood hopes and dreams.” fmiklin.villager@gmail.com
Panel discussion entitled “USIsraeli Relations in a New Era” at The Jerusalem Post Celebrate the Faces of Israel Conference, including (left to right) Thomas Nides, US Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, Former US Ambassador to Israel, and Avi Mayer, Editor-in-Chief for The Jerusalem Post.
Gary Reece told The Villager, “Larry (Mizel) has been working on MOTJ for over 20 years…”Rendering of Scholarship Pavilion at MOTJ
The Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) announced the Nonprofit Infrastructure (NPI) Grant Program, a statewide grant program for small, community-based, nonprofit organizations providing services to communities who have historically been underrepresented, underserved, or under-resourced.
The Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), through the Regional Access Partners Network, seeks small nonprofit applicants, with annual budgets between $150,000 and $2,000,000, that have been affected by the infrastructure aftermath of COVID-19. While the grant is not for programming, it does open doors for other opportunities such as strategic planning, professional development for board and staff, technology, etc.
The application will open on July 5, 2023 and close on August 31, 2023.
The Nonprofit Infrastructure Grant Program
The Nonprofit Infrastructure Grant was created after the Colorado House Bill 22-1356 was signed into law on June 3, 2022, to help underrepresented communities with limited access to state and federal funding and those impacted and disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. The emphasis on infrastructure and capacity building will help small nonprofits build critical staff and boards, while providing funds to proactively invest in the organization’s makeup. The grant is designed for nonprofits in historically-marginalized communities
that need more foundational help. $33,100,000 in grants will be awarded - with selected organizations awarded up to $100,000.
Additionally, if a tax-exempt charitable or social welfare group operating under a 501(c)(3) acts as a fiscal sponsor to small community-based groups (SCBG) that are not registered nonprofit organizations, those groups are also eligible for this grant funding.
“The NPI grant is an incredible opportunity for infrastructure and capacity building that will support the state’s small nonprofit community,” said Kodi Johnson, program manager at the Department of Local Affairs.
“DOLA is urging qualifying organizations across the state to apply and continue to deepen the impact that non-
profits and their donors have on supporting historically underrepresented, underserved or under-resourced Coloradans.”
To apply, interested applicants should contact their geographically-appointed Regional Access Partner (RAP) directly for technical assistance and to learn more about the process, criteria and funding. RAPs are collaborating with DOLA to help select and administer grants within their particular regions, emphasizing a hyper-local focus on teamwork and support.
Organizations must provide a Unique Entity ID (UEI) number from the federal government and meet the eligibility requirements. Applications are submitted
directly through one of the eight Regional Access Partners (RAPs), determined by the location of the organization’s headquarters. Funding is allocated for infrastructure needs only. Grant awardees will be notified by their RAP by January 31, 2024.
“Together DOLA and the RAP network are focused on ensuring that eligible nonprofit organizations in the state are aware of this opportunity,” added Johnson. “It is the Program’s goal to put forth the resources to help nonprofits apply and build capacity and infrastructure post COVID-19.”
For more information about this Program and to find a geographically-appointed RAP, please visit dlg.colorado.gov/nonprofit -infrastructure-grantprogram.
The role of water in the economic development of south metro Denver was the subject of the June 2023 partnership meeting of Denver South held at the Lone Tree Arts Center on June 1.
Lisa Darling, executive director of South Metro Water Supply Authority (SMWSA), told the large crowd of leaders in business and government that her organization is a partnership of 14 water providers in the south metro region of Denver who joined forces in 2004 “to shift the region away from reliance on a non-renewable underground water supply and toward supplies that replenish with every year’s snowmelt. Rather than doing so on their own, however, they knew that by coming together and partnering on projects and initiatives, they would be more effective and their customers would benefit from greater efficiencies and economies of scale.”
SMWSA serves 350,000 people who comprise 80% of the population of Douglas County and 10% of that of Arapahoe County. The number of people in SMWSA’s territory is projected to grow to 600,000 by 2050.
Darling explained that as metro Denver was growing rapidly in the 1980s and 1990s, the smaller water authorities in the south metro area (all except Denver Water and Aurora Water) relied on the Denver Basin Aquifer System, a non-renewable system, that is drought proof, unlike renewable water sources. It was being depleted “at an unprecedented rate-an average of 30 feet per year across the region.”
Concerns about depletion led to the 2003 South Metro Water Supply Study, funded by south metro entities, as well as Denver Water, the State of Colorado, and entities on the western slope. That study demonstrated that water was a statewide issue and led to the formation of SWMSA, whose goal was identified as working to, “shift away from nonrenewable sources of water.”
SMWSA rests on three pillars:
1) partnerships with local governments and other water providers;
2) investment in supply and storage projects; and 3) water conservation, including through reuse.
The organization has undertaken multiple regional water studies over the past two decades.
By 2020, its members were using 78% renewable water (natural runoff from rivers and streams) sources. That number is expected to climb to 85% by 2065. Darling emphasized that it is important to continue to maintain the non-renewable Denver Basin Aquifir System as one source of water due to its drought-proof feature.
By focusing on conservation and efficiency, including changing large grass areas to turf where possible, per capita water demands across the SMWSA region were reduced by over 30% between 2000 and 2010. Ster-
ling Ranch and Castle Rock are leaders in integrating efficiency and conservation into real estate development plans. Meridian and Inverness have a 100% reuse program with zero discharge. Reuse of all the water supplies that are legally available is a common practice.
An exciting program currently underway is WISE, Water Infrastructure and Supply Efficiency. It works by taking water used in households that goes down the drain, treating it, and putting it back into the South Platte River, where it can be recaptured and reused. WISE is a regional partnership that includes Denver Water, Aurora Water, ten SMWSA water utilities, Arapahoe and Douglas Counties.
With WISE, after water brought down from the rivers and streams in the mountains by Denver Water and Aurora Water is used by customers, it is moved to a wastewater treatment facility. From there, the treated water is placed back into the South Platte River where it flows downstream from Denver, heading north on the South Platte toward Brighton. There, the water is recaptured and filtered naturally at the Prairie Waters Complex owned by Aurora Water. Next, the water is turned around and pumped through a pipeline 34 miles to the Binney Water Treatment Plant near the Aurora Reservoir. It leaves there with drinking water quality and goes to homes and businesses in the WISE service area. This process is repeated indefinitely. “WISE provides a reliable and sustainable water supply for two million people,” according to SMWSA
James Eklund, nationally renowned water law expert and attorney with Sherman and Howard, explained that Colorado is the headwater state for 18 downstream states and, “We don’t have a water problem in Colorado; we have a water management problem.”
Pursuant to nine interstate compacts and other applicable legal agreements, two-thirds of the water that originates in Colorado must be sent to the downstream states to meet their water needs.
The most important body of
water is the Colorado River. The Colorado River Basin is 243,000 square miles, serves 40 million people, and if one measured its GDP, would be the fifth largest economy in the world. It is a crucial component of U.S. national food security.
The largest reservoirs in the U.S. are Lake Mead and Lake Powell. They are used to manage the water in the system that includes the downstream states. Both, Eklund shared, are in poor condition, with Lake Mead currently at 30% of its average volume and Lake Powell at 23% of its usual level.
As the debate continues on how water will be allocated to other states, Colorado must plan and manage its water resources carefully because 90% of the state’s population is on the eastern
slope while 80% of precipitation falls on the western slope. The plethora of individual water authorities around the state make it difficult to plan regionally (SMWSA is a notable exception) in most other areas of the state.
Another important issue is the lack of regulatory incentives in Colorado to homebuilders to utilize gray water where it is appropriate, e.g., in toilets where drinking quality water is used presently.
The most important area where water use could be much more efficient is agriculture. According to Eklund, there are multiple ways we could “adopt regenerative agricultural practices that save water, sequester carbon, and build healthy soils, as well as slow climate change and aridification”
According to The Nature Conservancy, 80% of the water from the Colorado River is used for agriculture.
Eklund concluded by praising the work of organizations like Denver South and SMWSA that foster regional cooperation. He warned against allowing individual municipalities to adopt rules that consider only their constituents instead of what is best for the region, a common occurrence around many issues in a home rule state like Colorado.
Through their presentations, Darling and Eklund shed light on the importance of partnerships, projects, and conservation efforts, and highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in addressing water management. fmiklin.villager@gmail.com
Dear Savvy Senior, Is it possible to collect Social Security benefits from my ex-spouse? We were married for 12 years but have been divorced for almost 20 years now.
Never Remarried
Dear Never,
Yes, depending on your specific circumstances, you may very well be eligible for divorced spouses Social Security benefits. Here’s what you should know.
Who’s Eligible?
A divorced spouse can collect a Social Security retirement benefit on the earnings record of their exhusband (or ex-wife) if you are at least age 62, were married for at least 10 years, are unmarried, and are not eligible for a higher benefit based on your own earnings record.
In order to collect, your former spouse must also be at least 62 and eligible for Social Security benefits. But he doesn’t have to be
receiving them in order for you to collect divorced spouse’s benefits, as long as you’ve been divorced for at least two years.
Even if your ex is remarried, it won’t affect your right to divorcee benefits, nor will it affect your ex’s retirement benefits or his current spouse’s benefits.
Benefit Amount
A divorced spouse can receive up to 50 percent of their ex’s full Social Security benefit, or less if they take benefits before their full retirement age, which is 66 for people born in 1945-1954 but is gradually increased to age 67 for people born in 1960 or later. To find out your full retirement age and see how much your benefits will be reduced by taking them early see SSA.gov/ benefits/retirement/planner/ agereduction.html
while Colorado law allows you to use a Will for such a donation, it may not be the best choice available.
Keep in mind though, that if you qualify for benefits based on your own work history, you’ll receive the larger of the two benefits. You cannot receive benefits on both your record, and your ex’s work record too. To find out how much your retirement benefits will be, see your Social Security statement at SSA. gov/myaccount. And to get an estimate of your ex’s benefits, call Social Security at 800-772-1213. You’ll need to show your marriage certificate and divorce decree to prove your marriage lasted at least 10 years along with his Social Security number to get it.
You also need to be aware that working can affect your divorced spouse’s benefits. If you
and beliefs with your loved ones, so that they will know what you want done at the time of your death.
start taking benefits while working, and are under full retirement age, your benefits will be reduced $1 for every $2 you earn above the annual limit, which is $21,240 in 2023. In the year you reach full retirement age, however, the annual limit increases to $56,520 and the reduction lowers to $1 for every $3 above that limit. See SSA.gov/pubs/ EN-05-10069.pdf for more details.
Another factor that can reduce your divorced spouse’s benefits is receiving a pension from an employer that did not withhold Social Security taxes (like a government). This is a rule know as Government Pension Offset (see SSA.gov/benefits/ retirement/planner/gpocalc.html) which can reduce your benefits by two-thirds of the amount of your pension.
Divorced Survivor’s Benefits
You also need to know
goals, the following documents create an effective medical/estate plan package:
that when your ex-spouse dies (and if you were married for 10 or more years), you become eligible for divorced survivor benefits, which is worth up to 100 percent of what your ex-spouse was due.
Survivor benefits are available to divorced spouses as early as age 60 (50 if you’re disabled). But if you remarry before 60, you become ineligible unless the marriage ends. Remarrying after age 60 will not affect your eligibility.
Also note that if you are receiving divorced spouses benefits when your ex-spouse dies, you will automatically be switched over to the higher paying survivor benefit.
For more information visit SSA.gov/benefits/ retirement/planner/ applying7.html and click on “Benefits for Your Divorced Spouse.”
BY DONALD PETERSONDear Readers,
How is organ and tissue donation handled under Colorado law?
Under Colorado law, if you choose to, you may decide to donate your organs and/or tissue at the time of your death. This declaration to donate your organs or tissue may be completed in a variety of ways, including making such a statement in your Will, by making a direction on your Colorado Driver ’s License, by declaration in a Living Will or a Medical Power of Attorney, or by declaration in another written document, such as an organ/tissue donation card or other similar written instrument.
Use caution, however. Although you can legally donate your organs and tissue through a statement in your Last Will and Testament, there is a strong possibility that no one will look at the terms and directions of your Will until well after your death, including after your burial or cremation. Thus,
If you do not have a written declaration to donate your organs and tissue, or a written direction not to make such a donation, then certain persons who survive you may make the decision for such donation of your organs and tissues. The authority to make such donation is in the following order:
1. An agent of the decedent;
2. The spouse or partner in a civil union of the decedent;
3. Adult children of the decedent;
4. Parents of the decedent;
5. Adult siblings of the decedent;
6. Adult grandchildren of the decedent;
7. Grandparents of the decedent;
8. An adult who exhibited special care and concern for the decedent;
9. The persons who were acting as the Guardians of the decedent at the time of death; and
10. Any other person having authority to dispose of the decedent’s body
As with all estate planning, including advance directive documents, it is a good idea to seek the assistance of an experienced estate plan attorney Also with respect to organ and tissue donation, it is a good idea to discuss your desires
What are the four key medical/estate plan documents you need now?
Many of my clients have asked what are the critical documents needed, particularly in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply being married does not give you the legal right to gain access to your spouse’s medical records or make medical decisions on your spouse’s behalf, even in an emergency. To avoid this problem and to help others care for you and to achieve your overall estate planning
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 identify 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, 2020 Edition (Chapter 24: Medical Advance Directives, Michael A. Kirtland, Esq.), which is a copyrighted publication and may be accessed and downloaded for free at: www cobar.org/For-the-Public/ Senior-Law-Handbook.
Junior Maddy Bante won the Individual Title for the Second Year in a Row
The St. Mary’s Academy golf team won their third consecutive state title at the 3A State Championship in Aspen yesterday, winning by 11 strokes. The championship was held on May 30 and 31.
Junior Maddy Bante also won the individual title for the second year in a row. Junior Maddy Bante led the team shooting an impressive 69 (2 under par) on Wednesday. She also won the individual state title at the championship.
Junior Reese Brown, Freshman Amelia Parrott,
three-peat victory is a testament to the dedication and relentless effort put forth by our golfers. They have shown incredible resilience and sportsmanship throughout the season, and their win reflects their unwavering commitment. I am truly honored to coach such an exceptional group of athletes.”
The team’s win was calculated by the three lowest scores of Maddy, Reese,
and Amelia. They won over Peak to Peak Charter School and Aspen High School, who both tied for second.
St. Mary’s Academy is Denver’s premier Independent, Catholic, Co-educational PreK-8 and All-Girls High School that was established in 1864 by the Sisters of Loretto. SMA fosters excellence in each child through academic achievement, spiritual development, and service. The Loretto School Values of faith, community, justice, and respect provide the foundation for students to be powerful agents of change. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Arapahoe County Sheriff
Tyler Brown and Arapahoe County Coroner Kelly Lear, M.D., held their annual free pancake breakfast and behind-thescenes look at the many functions of their offices on a cool, rainy June 3 Saturday morning at their Dove Valley headquarters, next door to the Broncos training facility. Dan Kuper of Flippin Flapjacks provided the delicious pancakes and sausage breakfast.
Among the interesting folks we met were two of the eight certified Hazardous Device Technicians who comprise the Arapahoe County Bomb Squad.
explosive breaching, VIP protection, and evidence recovery in special situations.
We also met up with Sergeant Jeremiah Gates, who runs the 11-person Sheriff’s Office Drone Unit and the 10-person Traffic Safety Unit responsible for investigation and crash reconstruction for crashes involving motorcycles, as well as complex and critical-injury accidents.
Drones are used for surveillance, searching for suspects, including those who are inside buildings, crime scene investigation and documentation, and search and rescue. The heat signatures that are generated by the thermal cameras on the drones are used to locate missing persons, such as children or the elderly, as well as criminal suspects.
All the officers in the unit are
Being a part of this specially-trained unit is an auxiliary duty assignment for each of its members who are also Sheriff ’s deputies. The Bomb Squad, established in 1978, is trained at the FBI Haz ardous Devices School in Huntsville, and must get recertified every three years, in addition to taking 280 hours of additional training annually after certification. Bomb Squad members, who respond to an average of 35 calls each year, are also assigned to do chemical/biological/radiation hazardous materials work,
trained drone pilots who have their own individual drone that they keep with them whenever they are on duty so it can be deployed immediately, if necessary.
The Drone Unit responded to 80 calls for service last year and, e’re only growing. We’re getting busier and busier,” Sergeant Gates told us.
At the event, we met five members of the Arapahoe County Explorers program, ranging in age from 14 to 20.
Chantal Castro, 20, will be graduating from Metro State University later this year and plans to go to law school to become a prosecutor so she “can make sure criminals are put in jail.” Aiden Apodoca, 20, is al-
ready working at the Arapahoe County Jail and plans to enter the police academy to become a sheriff’s deputy as soon as he turns 21, the minimum age required. Dayanara Castillo, 20,
is studying psychology at CU Denver and interested in criminal justice. Luna Goularte, 18, just graduated from Smoky Hill High School and plans to work at the jail, like Aiden, and enter
the police academy as soon as he is old enough. Sawyer Tipton is about to start high school at Colorado Academy and loves being an Explorer.
Sheriff’s Deputy Natasha Romero, who oversees the Explorers program, told The Villager that Explorers train in many of the same skills as actual Sheriff ’s deputies, including how to intervene in a crisis, defensive tactics, and dispatch. They compete around the country with other youth law enforcement groups in the use of those skills, as well as performing community service projects around the county, representing the Sheriff’s Office. fmiklin.villager@gmail.com
If one searches “whack a mole” using Google, the first responses are literal explanations of the arcade game.
But then comes application of the concept to everyday living (including sporting pursuits).
In short, the term signifies usually unsuccessful attempts to stop unwanted action from recurring in an unpredictable way.
This describes what the Nuggets are facing in the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat.
Whack a mole.
After Game One was won handily by Denver, in Denver, there was widespread talk that this would be a short series, that the eighth and final qualifier from the Eastern Division was fortunate to have made it so far.
Miami was a team that got hot at just the right time, it was said, and upset better teams, ending with the vaunted Boston Celtics—in Boston, no less, in Game Seven!
But Game Two against Denver Sunday night illustrated how Miami made it through the playin gauntlet all the way to the NBA Finals, and suggested the real challenge this series presents.
Whack a mole.
In Miami’s 111-108 unexpected victory, the Heat used 10 players. Three of them made major contributions after being non-factors three days earlier:
Veteran Kevin Love started and scored six points with 10 rebounds, in 22 minutes. He didn’t play at all in Game One.
Max Strus finished with 14 points, all of them in the first half, including four three-pointers in the first quarter He was scoreless in the series opener and went 0-for-9 from long range.
Duncan Robinson turned the game around almost single-handedly Sunday night with 10 quick points in two minutes and four seconds at the start of the fourth quarter. He made only one of six shots in the first game, good for three points.
Whack a mole.
At the same time, two others who previously had showed they were threats to be accounted-for did little or nothing:
Haywood Highsmith played only six scoreless minutes in Miami’s victory—after putting up 18 off the bench when Denver won 104-93.
Caleb Martin, who torched the Celtics for 26 in the final game of that surprising series and averaged 19.3 points and hit 60.2 percent of 88 shots in the seven games, scored three for the second game in a row against the Nuggets and has attempted only 10 shots in two games. (Is the clock ticking on his next explosion?)
Whack a mole.
Through the first two games, Miami used 12 players, and 10 of them scored—seven in double figures at least once.
Denver, meanwhile, played only eight—the same eight. And five scored more than nine.
Miami’s bench accounted for 153 minutes in the first two games, to 115 for Denver, and outscored the Nuggets’ reserves 58-40
Whack a mole.
Against Phoenix and the Lakers, the order of business was pretty obvi-
ous: shut down the Suns’ Kevin Durant and Devin Booker and limit Lebron and A.D. in L.A. Make the moles win the games.
Miami’s stud equivalent, Jimmy Butler, is explosive and understandably draws the most attention. Denver held him to 34 points, combined, in the first two games.
But when different role players claim their fifteen minutes of fame, as Andy Warhol liked to call moments of distinction, it raises the question for coach Michael Malone to consider: Would it be better to let Butler get his while neutralizing the snipers?
Whack a mole.
We now know there will be at least one more game in Denver.
What we don’t know is which Heat players will surprise us next.
Will those who disappeared earlier suddenly re-emerge?
Will someone who hasn’t yet caught fire suddenly step up?
Whack a mole.
Denny Dressman is a veteran of 43 years in the newspaper business, including 25 at the Rocky Mountain News, where he began as executive sports editor. He is the author of 15 books, nine of them sports-related. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@ comcast.net.
BATELEUR 1,800,000 PREMIER PROPERTY ON OPEN SPACE - SOLD THE VILLAS AT CHERRY HILLS - SOLD
COMING - EXTRAORDINARY PRESERVE HOME UNDER 5 MILLION
COMING - EXQUISITE RANCH IN ONE CHERRY LANEDramatic, completely updated- free-standing home, in this prime Greenwood Village community. Coming in June. $2,150,000
BUYER NEED : HOME IN CHERRY HILLS ELEMENTARY ATTENDANCE AREA, APPROXIMATELY ONE ACRE. UP TO $3,500,000. CALL ME WITH INFORMATION BUYER IS READY TO BUY!!
In recent years we have seen a noticeable uptick in people gravitating toward gardening. Whether it was the increased time we had on our hands due to the pandemic, or an intentional draw toward an activity that soothes us and produces tangible results, such as a beautiful garden and deliciously grown food.
Generous rain showers along the Front Range provided the lush environment and prime timing for Colorado gardeners to really dig in.
There are so many benefits that gardening bestows upon us; here are few that have been studied and promoted.
A new study from the University of Colorado funded by the American Cancer Society found that people who start gardening (especially planting fruit and vegetables) have notable reductions in stress and anxiety; and they begin to eat more fiber while engaging in
physical activity, two ways to reduce risk of cancer and chronic disease.
The connection to nature while gardening is a natural stress reliever (people generally breathe deeper while outdoors), and the pride that
tise, experience and advice to novice aficionados.
The economic benefit of tending your own garden is also incredibly relevant as we see the rising cost of groceries enter double digits. It’s not just the personal satisfaction of cultivating your own food, but the practical result is tangible!
Some other bonuses to consider when embarking on a gardening adventure include the aesthetic beauty of a well-tended garden and as well as the natural medicinal effects of certain plants and flowers. Here are some varieties that have been known to provide calm, relaxation and help treat depression.
comes with growing your own food can boost self-esteem. The act of gardening involves using the whole body; think of all those lunges and squats! That’s not to mention that calming rhythm that watering and weeding can provide to our everyday routine.
There is also a beautiful social connection that can be fostered, especially for those who join communal gardening groups. Gardeners are always willing to share exper-
• Peppermint has been found to relax muscles, lower frustration and boost awareness.
• Lavender has a calming scent and is commonly prescribed to help in the treatment of anxiety and depression.
• Jasmine is known for helping to ease the body from anxiety and is an excellent plant to have close by when you sleep.
• Gerbera can instantly calm the body (and brighten the
room). They can also remove benzene from the air which is a chemical found in inks.
• Areca palm is a very popular air-purifying plant, which can be kept both in the homes and offices.
• English Ivy is a proven indoor plant for stress relief and anxiety. It reduces headaches and promotes a good night’s sleep.
• Chrysanthemum is used to treat chest paint, high blood pressure, diabetes among
other ailments. It’s known to increase blood flow to the heart.
As you consider what to do during longer summer days, gardening might be the go-to activity for you. Its benefits prove far and wide, over centuries. I encourage you to head over to your local garden market (Plum Creek Garden Market is right in your back yard!) to seek some expert advice and choose from an exceptional array of plants, flowers and vegetables.
John “Jack”
Klotz, aged 98, left for Heaven on Sunday May 21st 2023 at his home surrounded by the love of his family.
Jack was born April 16, 1925 to Tyler and Marie (Whitfield) Klotz in Joplin, Missouri. A veteran of World War II, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1942 and served as a bombardier on a B-29 stationed in Saipan. Following his service, he earned a degree in Pharmacy in 1951 from the University of Missouri Kansas City and spent his professional career in pharmaceutical sales.
During his college tenure, Jack met and married his wife, Shirley (Humphries) in 1948 and they had three children – John, Richard, and Susan. They moved in 1961 and have called Denver home ever since.
He loved baseball, particularly the St. Louis Cardinals and the Colorado Rockies. It was
with great pride that he participated with the Model “A” Ford Club to open Coors Field in 1995. He also has a brick in Coors Field reading “From Cardinals fan to Rockies fan”.
He was known to our family in many capacities – husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, but he was a central part of all our lives providing each of us with love, guidance, and support. He always had a smile for you and a story, typically humorous, to share. We are all blessed to have been able to share so many memories with him.
Jack is survived by his wife of 74 years, Shir-
ley, sons John (Ann) and Richard (Susan), and daughter Susan, along with grandchildren Lisa, Greg, Kristy, Hayley,
Julie, Joe; and two great granddaughters Halle and Claire; five nephews and one niece. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara, son-in-law Gary, and grandson Andy.
Military honors will be held Tuesday, June 20th at 10:30 am at Ft. Logan National Cemetery, 4400 W. Kenyon Ave., Denver, CO 80236. Services to
follow at 12:00 pm at Wellshire Presbyterian Church, 2999 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80222. Reception immediately following.
Editor ’s note:
John’s wife, Shirley Klotz has been a dedicated Villager volunteer for over 15 years and the Villager staff wishes to express our deepest condolences for her loss of an amazing partner
“John always had a smile for you and a story, typically humorous, to share.”
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN
THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE CITY COUNCIL AT THE VILLAGE CENTER, 2450 E. QUINCY AVENUE, CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, COLORADO 80113, AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 2023 (SECOND AND FINAL READING), TO CONSIDER FOR ADOPTION COUNCIL BILL 2, SERIES 2023, A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE REPEALING AND RE-ENACTING ARTICLES I THROUGH IX OF CHAPTER 18 OF THE CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE MUNICIPAL CODE, CONCERNING BUILDING REGULATIONS; ADOPTING BY REFERENCE, WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE, THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE, THE 2021 NATIONAL GREEN BUIDLING STANDARDS, THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE, THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE, THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, THE 2023 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, AND THE 2021 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE, PUBLISHED BY THE INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL, INC., 4051 WEST FLOSSMOOR ROAD, COUNTRY CLUB HILLS, IL 60478; REPEALING ALL ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT THEREWITH; AND
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF.
THE PURPOSE OF THE REFERENCED CODES ARE GENERALLY TO REGULATE AND CONTROL THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, QUALITY OF MATERIALS, USE AND OCCUPANCY, LOCATION AND MAINTENANCE OF ALL BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES WITHIN THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE AND TO PROVIDE MINIMUM STANDARDS TO SAFEGUARD LIFE OR LIMB, HEALTH, PROPERTY AND PUBLIC WELFARE FROM THE HAZARDS OF FIRE EXPLOSION AND DANGEROUS CONDITIONS ARISING FROM STORAGE, HANDLING, AND USE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND DEVICES IN THE USE OR OCCUPANCY OF BUILDINGS OR PREMISES. ALL REFERENCED CODES AND AMENDMENTS THERETO ARE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK, 2450 E. QUINCY AVENUE, CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, COLORADO 80113. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PROPOSAL PLEASE CALL THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT 303-783-2721.
ALL PROTESTS OR COMMENTS MUST BE MADE IN WRITING ON OR BEFORE THE HEARING DATE, OR BY PERSONAL APPEARANCE AT THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Published in The Villager
Published: June 8, 2023
Legal # 11235
Estate of Geneva H. Oppenheim, Deceased
Case Number 2023PR30507
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe, County, Colorado on or before September 25, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred.
John H. Oppenheim 1205 S. Valentia Ct. Address Denver CO 80247-3020
Published in The Villager
First Publication: May 25, 2023
Last Publication: June 8, 2023
Legal # 11220
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of Nicolas Pattirane, Deceased
Case Number 2023PR30557
All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Arapahoe, County, Colorado or Denver Probate Court of the City and County of Denver, Colorado on or before October 2,
Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the same was Taxed or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It May Concern, and more especially to
SCOTT STROUP, CAM BUI
You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 1st day of November, 2018, A.D., the then County Treasurer of the County of Arapahoe, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to FIG CAPITAL INVESTMENTS CO13 LLC, the following described real estate situate in the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado, to-wit:
THAT PART OF PLOT 2 DESC AS BEG AT NE COR OF SD PLOT TH S 129.35 FT TH SW 256.29 FT TH N 184.28 FT TH E 250 FT TO BEG MOUNTAIN RANGEVIEW aka 7087 S WINDERMERE ST and said County Treasurer issued a Certificate of Purchase therefore to FIG CAPITAL INVESTMENTS CO13 LLC; Whereas, the said FIG CAPITAL INVESTMENTS CO13 LLC did, on the 15th day of November 2022 duly assigned the certificate of the sale of the tax lien on the property as aforesaid, and all its rights, title, and interest in said property, to BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC.
or on or before October 16, 2023, or the claims may be forever barred. Gabriel Gelman 8480 E. Orchard Road, Suite 5000 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Published in The Villager
First Publication: June 8, 2023
Last Publication: June 22, 2023 Legal # 11235
DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO 7325 South Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 649-6355
PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO
In the Interest of: ARION MORGAN, Children, and concerning SAMANTHA MORGAN AND ISAAC HOPE, Respondents.
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: 22JV428
Division: 22
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT
PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO, Petitioner, IN THE INTEREST OF:
ZARIA BAKER and MADISON BAKER, Children, and concerning DOMINIQUE BAKER (DECEASED), DARRIN SMITH, JOHN DOE 1, JOHN DOE 2, and PATRICIA BAKER (LEGAL GUARDIAN), Respondents.
Danielle Newman, Esq., Reg. #37941 Assistant County Attorney Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive, Aurora, CO 80012
Tel: 303-636-1887
Fax: 303-636-1889
DNewman@arapahoegov.com
Case No: 23JV30078
Division: 23
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT
publication for a change of name:
Name of Nathan Garwood Wheatley is requested to be changed to Nathan Garwood Kessler Mann
Date: May 5, 2023
Judge
Published in The Villager
First Publication: May 25, 2023
Last Publication: June 8, 2023
Legal # 11219
That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent general taxes assessed against said real estate for the year 2017;
That said real estate was taxed or specially assessed in the name(s) of SCOTT STROUP and CAM BUI for said year 2017;
That said BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC, on the 15th day of November, 2022, the present holder of said Certificate, who has made request upon the Treasurer of said County for a deed to said real estate;
That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for said real estate to the said BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC, on or about the 26th day of September, 2023, A.D., unless the same has been redeemed.
Said property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of said Treasurer’s Deed.
Witness my hand this 25th day of May, 2023, A.D.
Michael Westerberg Treasurer Arapahoe County
Published in The Villager
First Publication: June 1, 2023
Last Publication: June 15, 2023
Legal # 11228
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent Father, ISAAC HOPE is set for June 12, 2023 at 3:30 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 in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.
Due to COVID 19, the Arapahoe County District Court is holding some 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 OR 1-415655-0001. When prompted enter code 2594-887-9073
If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin.
Date: May 30, 2023
Shannon Nichols, Esq.
Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the People
Published in The Villager
Published: June 8, 2023
Legal # 11232
DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street
Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 649-6355
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing regarding RESPONDENT FATHERS, DARRIN SMITH, JOHN DOE 1, and JOHN DOE 2 is set for June 30, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. in Division 23 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(ren) dependent and neglected in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.
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-Div23
•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 code 2598 320 5548.
If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin.
Dated: May 31, 2023.
Danielle Newman, Esq., Reg. #37941
Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the Petitioner
Published in The Villager
Published: June 8, 2023
Legal # 11233
WESTERN CONSERVATIVE
SUMMIT
JUNE 9-10 at Colorado Convention Center-Denver. For tickets, sponsorship, and exhibit info., visit WesternConservativeSummit.com. Call 1-866-455-8500.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY THRIVING
COMMUNITY FAIR
JUNE 10, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Town Center at Aurora, 14200 E. Alameda Ave., Aurora
ROCK THE RANCH FUNDRAISER
JUNE 10, 2-8 p.m. Puma’s Rescue Ranch in Littleton will hold a fundraiser with live music hay rides, face paining, food trucks, vendors, & more! Sponsored by Sell With Brook. Ticket info: page 16, May 25 Villager. Zuma’s is located at 7745 N Moore Rd., Littleton.
SOUTH METRO CHAMBER GOLF
TOURNAMENT
JUNE 12, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Meridian Golf Club. Registration now open. Info: 303-795-0142.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY
CHEYENNE-ARAPAHO PARK GRAND REOPENING CELEBRATION
FRIDAY, JUNE 16, 1:30-2:30 p.m. (Tsistsistas-Hinono’ei Park) has new amenties. Free food, kids activities and more. 9200 E Iowa Ave. (Half-mile north of Parker Road). Visit arapahoegov.com/ openspaces
MADAM LOU BUNCH DAY & FAMOUS BED RACE IN CENTRAL CITY
SAT., JUNE 17, 12 noon-8 p.m. on Main Street, Central City. Free admission. Join the 49th celebration including the famous bed race, costume contests, live music, Madam and Miners’ Ball and more. Enter your team in the bed race by visiting Facebook.com/mmadamloubunchday. Fees apply for bed race teams. Sponsored by Main Street Central City.
CANCER LEAGUE OF COLORADO
ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
JUNE 19, 2023, The Ridge at Castle Pines North.
ART SMART SUMMER
June 26-July 24. The Children’s Art School invites young artists to a summer of creative discoveries. Three hour morning and afternoon sessions at 2290 South Clayton St. in the University Park neighborhood. Info: visit www.artcreates.org
VETERANS STAND DOWN
JUNE 30, at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds. Volunteers are needed to help staff the event. Visit arapahoegov.com/ volunteer for details.
UPCOMING WARD VI TOWN
HALL MEETING
JULY 19, CAPSTC. Info: call 303-739-7015 or visit AuroraGov.org/Town Meetings
ARAPAHOE COUNTY FAIR
JULY 27-30. Be a volunteer! Visit
arapahoegov.com/volunteer for details.
DENVER LYRIC OPERA GUILD
DLOG SUMMER PARTY
AUGUST 12. A French-themed Luncheon at Columbine Country Club. Tickets available at the DLOG website in mid-June. SAVE THE DATE!
TAPS: TRAGEDY ASSISTANCE
PROGRAM FOR SURVIVORS
WESTERN-THEMED GALA
SEPT. 9 at Wings Over the Rockies. Founders, Lynne and Bo Cottrell, in 2005 will be honored. The Cottrell’s will be stepping down as directors of the event. The event raises funds for military survivors. Featuring country legend Pam Tillis and singer/songwriter Gary Morris. Also a special performance by Frank Moscato, an American Idol Gold Ticket winner. INFO: visit TAPS.org/Colorado
“WHAT’S NEW? CHERRY
HILLS GARDEN & HOBBY CLUB
SEEKING MEMBERS
In existence for 60 years to serve Cherry Hills Village residents and has expanded to include Greenwood Village residents. Programs cover a variety of topics from antiques to zinnias and include a holiday luncheon. Dues - $35/year. Meetings held March - Dec. on the fourth Tues. of each month from 10 a.lm. -noon in members’ homes. Please attend a meeting as a guest. Info: Wendy, 303-803-0512.
A beautiful Genesis 2023 Electrified GV70 AWD Prestige with “Makalu Gray” paint all-electric sedan car arrived for a week of test driving.
The Genesis label is the luxury brand of Korean Hyundai vehicles having final assembly in a U.S.A. factory in Montgomery, Alabama with Korean engine and transmission. A center console dial serves as the transmission control with a thrust button for an additional burst of power that was never necessary. This vehicle could fly with a very smooth flow of electric energy from the all-electric power train of 160 KW front and 160 KW rear electric motors. Electric energy is fast and allows for a smooth drive and instant acceleration.
The appearance of the Genesis GV70 is stellar, luxury appointments with white leather interior seating and aluminum trim.
The GV70 rides on 20” alloy wheels and rides like a cloud with electronically controlled suspension. The smooth flow of electric power and the power bolstered seats with lumbar support with ergo motion provide a fabulous silky, smooth, ride.
The 2023 GV70 does not have a safety rating yet, but it was a Genesis model that saved the life of pro-golfer icon Tiger Woods. This electric model is loaded with hi-tech electronic and safety features.
The latest driving feature includes the lane keeping assist. I especially like the surround view monitor and intelligent speed limit assist to avoid many speed sign
Colorado Statewide Network
with another electric less expensive vehicle was to just plug it into a commercial charging station almost like a gas pump control handle.
By H. ThrottleTo
changes.
The center console plays host to a large 12.3 instrument cluster as an extra option with a premium navigation system and 14.5-inch screen. A Lexicon premium sound system provides an extensive selection of news, music, and active road noise control. A manufacturer ’s suggested retail price is $65,850 with an extensive list of options of additional interior leather features and heated second row seats adding to the final price.
I have driven other Genesis high-end gasoline models that were excellent with similar safety and luxury components. Really a classy selection of standard and optional features. This was my first experience with an all-electric high-end vehicle without hybrid engine back-up of a self-charging of battery and fossil fuels. The GV70 has a ten-year/100,000 mile power-train warranty.
The GV70 has a charging kit stored in the trunk for home charging. My brief experience
It one instance a $10 charge provided 40 miles of additional mileage in a two-hour charging period. This raises a serious concern about the availability of charging stations, cost of the service, and time taken to charge the vehicle that probably relates to the size and power of the battery components.
My experience with the GV70 was to find the plug connection that was located within the front grill and was connected to the door locking mechanism with safety precautions for auto thefts while charging a vehicle.
While I loved driving the GV70 it has a 200-mile distance capacity. That means driving to Grand Junction would require locating a charge station twice for a round-trip. Staying close to home or the office the 200-mile distance would not be a problem.
The bottom line is that these Genesis vehicles are a premium vehicle and choice of models should depend upon price and distance to be traveled at any one point in time. My choice would be a hybrid model of both battery and fossil fuels, usually extending mileage to around 50 mpg. The GV70 has a factory rating of 91mpg , but limited to a 200-mile journey.
Overall, the quality of these Genesis vehicles is outstanding.
Regular maintenance is critical to the comfort and well-being of our furry family members. Scenthound, to educate as many dog parents as possible on the importance of basic We focus on the five core areas that all dogs need care: Skin, Coat, Ears, Nails, NAIL TRIMMING
SKIN ISSUES
DENTAL CARE
FLEAS & TICKS
HAIIRCUTS
Basic Hygiene includes the services that every dog needs on a routine basis. In order to keep the price affordable, this package comes with a towel-dry only.
BASIC HYGIENE
Bath, Ear Cleaning, Nail Clip + Teeth Brushing
ADD-ON PACKAGES
Our services are packaged so you only pay for what your dog needs.
BLOW-OUT
Basic Hygiene, Brush-out + Blow-dry BARBER
Basic Hygiene, Blow-out, Haircut
ANAL GLANDS
Congratulations to Scenthound on their Ribbon Cutting in Centennial last week! They also were able to donate $2,000 to the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer Therapy Dog program! Book your dog care and grooming today. www.scenthound.com
SHEDDING
We provide we’re healthiest your pup, everything
South University Boulevard, Centennial, CO 80122 (720) 823-8180
And to keep you’ll detailing external we are any issues allergies, the like. problems
The
11AM – 4PM
To become a chamber member or to learn about sponsorship opportunities please call President & CEO Jeff Keener @ 303-249-8407 to get involved! This page brought to you by The Villager Newspaper
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