8-31-23 Villager

Littleton Public Schools’ EPIC Campus is open

BY FREDA MIKLIN STAFF WRITER

A ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 26 marked the official launch of Littleton Public Schools’ (LPS) Explorative Pathways for Innovative Careers (EPIC) campus at 190 E. Littleton Boulevard, across the street from Littleton High School.

The new school, dedicated to innovative career and technical education, will be a resource for college-level courses and career-focused learning for all LPS juniors and seniors. The school, which can accommodate 800 students, will also support non-traditional learners in their preparation for skill careers that are not directly tied to a four-year college track.

EPIC offers seven overall pathways:

• Aerospace

• Business and Entrepreneurship

• Computer Science

• Health Sciences

• Natural Resources

• Construction Trades

• Future Educator

Within those pathways, students can focus on specific areas of study. Business & Entrepreneurship students can choose from:

• Start a Business and Manage a Business

• Investing and Financial Management

• Real Estate 1 and 2

The Computer Science pathways includes focused studies in:

• Cybersecurity

• Software Engineering

• Artificial Intelligence Health Sciences includes specific areas of study focused on:

• Nurse Aide

• Internship/Medical Office Administration

• Sports Medicine

• Behavioral Health

At the ribbon cutting, EPIC Principal Travis Amonson described the program as providing, “courses aligned with higher

education, concurrent enrollment, industry certifications, workbased learning, connections with industry, and relevant learning

experiences using state-of-the-art equipment.”

He thanked the community, especially parents, for their trust in LPS as this project developed. He also acknowledged community members’ and parents’ participation on the numerous committees that helped formulate decisions about everything from programming to scheduling and design. The principal also spoke directly to EPIC students, telling them, “The best is yet to come. You belong here.”

LPS Superintendent of Schools Dr. Todd Lambert, hired six months ago after Dr. Brian Ewert retired from the position, said, in his address to the opening day crowd of 300, that this journey began when, “Several years ago, community and district school leaders came together to ask the question, ‘What could a school with explorative path-

prepared for a future that has yet to unfold? Today, we celebrate that vision and commitment. The EPIC Campus, both as a facility and its programming, will serve as a model across Colorado and our nation.’ ”

Lambert thanked LPS employees, the Littleton Education Association, and the district’s Long Range Planning Committee “for recognizing the need to replace our aging facilities to best serve our community’s children for the next 75 to 100 years.”

He acknowledged the members of the Citizens Bond Oversight Committee, who “ensure that bond dollars are spent wisely.”

The superintendent also named, for their ongoing and consistent support of this project, the City of Littleton, the City of Centennial, Arapahoe County Commissioners, Littleton Police Department, Arapahoe County

ways leading to careers, industry certifications, and college credit look like in our community? What do our students need to be

Sheriff’s Office, South Suburban Parks & Recreation, and the South Metro Denver Chamber. fmiklin.villager@gmail.com

The I-beams at the entrance to the EPIC Campus announce it has a serious mission.

From left to right, EPIC Principal Travis Amonson holding the oversized ribbon-cutting scissors, LPS Board President Angela Cristensen, LPS Board Members Lindley McCrary, Andrew Graham, Joan Andressen, and Robert Reichart; LPS Superintendent Todd Lambert

State Senator Chris Kolker is flanked by former LPS School Board Member Jack Reutzel (left) and former LPS Superintendent Brian Ewert (right).

U.S. Rep. Jason Crow and Arapahoe County Commissioner Carrie WarrenGully, a former LPS board member, came to support the opening of the EPIC Campus.

LPS Board of Education member Andrew Graham came with his wife Megan (right) and two of his four children, Caroline, an 8th grader at Goddard Middle School, and Elliot, a freshman at Heritage High School. The other Graham children are Oliver, a first-year cadet at The Citadel, and Charlie, a senior at Purdue University.

ABOVE: This prosthetic leg is used to teach students Sports Medicine.

LEFT: The Health Sciences Pathway includes software for “cutting into” and examining all the body parts of virtual cadavers of four individuals who died relatively young of cancer and donated their bodies to science.

Over 300 people came to check out the new EPIC Campus.

LPS Seniors Victoria Bagnall and Chandler Litwiler are EPIC students in the Nurse Aide area of study in the Health Sciences pathway. Victoria is planning a career in Pediatrics. Chandler hopes to be an orthodontist.

Trey Rivas is a student in the Sports Medicine area of study in the Health Sciences pathway of EPIC. He plans to use the skills he is learning as a police detective.

Kaylee Macias is a senior at Heritage High School who is studying in the Teacher Cadet area of the Future Educators pathway at EPIC. She plans to be a second-grade teacher.

Photos by Freda Miklin

This past Saturday evening we attended a “Strawberry’” yard party at a good friend’s home. The strawberries were yummy and the friendships even better. The weather turned out perfect, and the potluck dishes were delicious.

Arriving home at 9:30, I rushed to the TV to see the football score; hoping, and praying, that our beloved Broncos won here at home.

not want to shorten their term in office as the proposal indicated. Why would they want to give up any of their elective duties? (Answer; they didn’t.)

BY BOB SWEENEY

To my great surprise, and pleasure, the players were already celebrating on the field and the score showed a whopping Bronco victory 41-0; defeating the Ram team that embarrassed the Broncos last December.

This was a great season kickoff victory but sad to hear that pass receiver and Bronco stalwart Jeudy has a serious leg injury and is out for the season. His career may be over; he is a great loss for this year’s team. However, we have some rising stars on the roster. It looks like a good season ahead. HURRAH!

***

Mayor Mike Coffman has pulled back from his efforts to strengthen his duties as mayor of Aurora. I’ve known Mike for 40 years and have watched him climb up the public service ladder as a legislator, state treasurer, U.S. Congressman, and now mayor. I know that Mike is a “cleric,” to me someone who does his homework and is fiscally talented. Remember it was Mike, as state treasurer, who bailed out the St. Vrain School District when they were broke.

His duties as mayor are limited. He is a public relations figure for Aurora. He wants to lead that city out of fiscal and political chaos. Aurora needs a strong mayor who can make decisions, hire, and fire staff and department heads, along with leading the city council. Council members did

Mike needs to be praised for wanting to do more work and share more of the city burdens, but alas the city will hire another stranger from a faraway location to run Mike’s hometown as the new city manager.

Coffman could have done the job and he deserves a pat on the back for offering his experience in business and finance. He is the mayor and deserves a second term. He presides over a divided council and at present a vacant city manager position. Not good for the third largest city in Colorado. Great concept, bad execution for changes that are badly needed. At least re-elect him as mayor.

*** School board election time and candidates are announcing for local school boards in the Littleton and Cherry Creek School Districts.

The Villager will have candidate profiles starting now prior to the Nov.7 election. Time to pay attention to these candidates and local school issues.

***’

Littleton is presenting the first annual “Restaurant Week” running from Sept. 8-17, supported by the Littleton Chamber of Commerce. If you haven’t been to downtown Littleton lately, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The city has become more unique, the old-time street atmosphere is appealing, and the sidewalks are crowded with shoppers, and diners. A safe place to go for an evening of entertainment and fine food and beverages. Meet the actual owners of the

restaurants who are masters of their crafts. See the list of restaurants in this week’s Villager and make a point to dine in Littleton, Arapahoe Counties oldest and revered community.

***

Traveled out to Douglas County last Saturday to Douglas Co. Republican Woman’s Club picnic at the Wien’s Ranch located deep in the mountains South of Sedalia. Tom and Debra Wiens have a cattle ranch where they raise and sell natural beef products. Several hundred GOPs enjoyed having lunch in the hay shed, bidding on desserts, eating some good Wien’s beef, and enjoying meeting some of the Douglas County candidates for school board. You can order some of his grass-fed premium beef at www.WiensRanch.com. Phone orders: 303-681-3831.

While enjoying my hamburger who should come along to sit at the table but Congressman Ken Buck and Will, his three-year old grandson. Buck represents most of Eastern Colorado and was recently re-elected to another term of office. He is one of the leading conservatives in the U.S. Congress.

He and his grandson were having a great time and it was inspiring to see Ken as a grandfather, not just a very conservative politician attempting to slow the massive federal debt spending levels.

Wiens served as a state senator until term limited out of office. I’ve known him for 40 years and the couple once resided in Greenwood Village. Tom has a divinity degree from Yale University, among other honors and achievements. He would make a great candidate for higher office. He’s got the cowboy hat and the worn cowboy boots. Maybe a governor candidate someday after Gov. Polis.

***

I just learned that the name of Mt. Evans has not been changed. It is my understanding that the Indians from the Montana tribe didn’t like the “Blue Sky” moniker of majestic Mt. Evans. Maybe Gov. Evans name can survive the rewrite of history. After all, he wasn’t even in Colorado when the Sand Creek incident occurred, and they didn’t have telephones or iPhones at the time. Evans was the founder of Denver University and Northwestern, that should count for something. It would seem feasible that DU should defend their leader and reconsider their decisions on name changes.

***

Congressman Jason Crow visited Cherry Hills Village last week and stalwart wizard reporter Freda Miklin, representing The Villager, was there to meet and greet him. Crow is hard-working and is among the more prominent House Democrats. One of the most influential Democrats in the Congress is Diana DeGette with long- running seniority, representing Denver and until recently Cherry Hills Village. Colorado Democrats and Republicans get a star on their report cards for saving the new Space Force located in Colorado Springs. This is a big win for Colorado!

***

Arapahoe GOP will host their summer family picnic on Sunday, Sept. 17, 5:30 until 8:00 p.m. at Centennial Center Park, 13050 E. Peakview Ave. ( Playground for kids. ) Adult tickets are $25 until Sept. 10, then a $5 price increase. Kids $12. BBQ catered by GQUE. Registration now open. Questions: Call Lynne: 303-5505115 /www.Arapahoe republicans.org

Communist China’s Capitalism: Lessons in Freedom

The Wall Street Journal published an article on the demise of communist China’s capitalism.

https://www.wsj.com/ world/china/china-economy-debt-slowdown-recession-622a3be4?mod=china_news_article_pos4

A friend wrote the book “All Roads Lead to China.” He often said that China was more capitalistic than America. It was.

China’s capitalism exists only because the Chinese government allowed it to exist. It exists in an artificial bubble created by the Communist Chinese government. The bubble is collapsing because communist control is killing the golden goose, as so often happen when government bureaucrats try to run businesses and “enhance” capitalism with a

new regulation or subsidies.

The entire concept of Capitalism is encompassed in the idea of Free Trade: A willing buyer, a willing seller, without outside coercion. Capitalism, which is free enterprise based on the individual’s right to ownership of property, can be crushed by an over-aggressive government. This is what we see in China today.

Herein lies the chasm between two forms of capital-

ism: American and Chinese. One springs from the individual and the other, from government. America’s form of capitalism sprang from the individual transacting business in a free society, with a Constitutionally restrained government. The Chinese government is not constrained by a constitution that sanctifies the individual. China’s communism promotes the collective, which is the antithesis of the individual.

True Capitalism did not spring from any federal action. It spontaneous arose when freemen started transacting business between other individuals. This is the Private Sector or Private Business as distinct from the Public Sector or government. Our Constitution recognizes the inalienable right

for ownership of property, it does not grant it. The individual’s ability to do with that property as he pleases, as long as he follows the laws and, perhaps needless to say, doesn’t harm another. Our Constitution functions to control our government and its bureaucracy, not the individual.

Our own country would do well to re-learn this lesson. Individual freedom, protected by a controlled, not controlling, government supports the most powerful and prosperous economy that history has ever seen. It is an economy that significantly raised the standard of living for everyone, not just the Elite. The question for America is do we follow China’s lead and allow a

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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

I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member.

– Groucho Marx

Teacher, or just Presenter?

Sometimes I worry that I’m not a very good teacher.

It’s not that I’m inexperienced or unskilled or lacking in knowledge of my course content and basic ideas on pedagogy, curriculum, and instruction.

After thirty years in the classroom, both in public and private schools in the United States and abroad, I am undoubtedly a veteran educator. And as one of the most experienced honors and AP teachers in the English department of one of the nation’s top high schools, I think I can claim to be pretty good at my job.

However, there are times when I wonder whether I am just a talented presenter of information. When a teacher works at a high achieving school in a well-run district with a supportive community and scores of highly motivated students, the distinction of truly exemplary teaching can be more difficult to discern. Granted, in an environment with high expectations and exceptional results, the consumer is no doubt attentive to the product being offered. And that expectation to be excellent in order to maintain a tradition of excellence is a great motivator for an educator.

After many years of successful teaching with positive feedback from students, parents, colleagues, and administrators, I have no doubt that the content and instruction I provide is well received. And in classes that have a national test as a benchmark, I can be pretty confident that the results I am helping students achieve are appreciated by the stakeholders in the game. At our high school’s recent Back to School Night, numerous students from previous years came to see me, and that was one of the more validating feelings an educator can get. When they come back to see you, when they want to simply check in and say hello, you know you’ve connected as a teacher.

However, self reflection is, I believe, one of the most important tasks of any teacher. Effective educators must ask whether the students are achieving because of the instruction, or regardless of it. Engagement is the key. Carol Jago, an esteemed teacher and education researcher, has long noted that there is a difference between a fun classroom and an engaging one. In an engaging classroom, learning will happen. In a fun one, that’s not necessarily the case. At the high school and college level, especially among high achieving students, it can be all too easy to lapse into the role of lecturer. And, while in the era of TED Talks, engaging presenters can be seen as impressive and engaging, the

presenting of information is not actual teaching.

As I’ve noted before, I am an English teacher, but I don’t

to simply talking about our subject. In planning lessons, teachers are tasked with three important questions: What do we want them to know? How will we know when they know it? What will we do when they don’t?

gle to discern information from text, they are told to just read it again more carefully.

like to think that I simply teach English. I teach kids. I teach the skills of English to kids. But the students are the objective – teaching them. I teach them how to read, write, and think. There is a huge difference between teaching a subject and simply assigning material. Being a responsive educator is about teaching the kids in front of us, as opposed

That last question is where many educators fall short. What do we do when the students fall short of our goals? While a students’ education ultimately resides with them and their individual efforts, effective educators do not simply present the information and hope for the best. It’s when students struggle that true educating, the art of pedagogy, comes into play. Cris Tovani, the author of “I Read It, But I Don’t Get It,’ has noted the importance of continuing to actually teach the skills of reading throughout school. Sadly, when many kids strug-

There are two key models for education – the Sage on the Stage versus the Guide on the Side. While I believe strongly in direct instruction and the idea of the teacher being the expert in the room, I also know that simply standing in front of the classroom and presenting information is not necessarily effective teaching. As the old teacher adage goes, school is too often a place where children go to watch adults work. If they just sit and listen to information, research suggests they won’t actually learn much.

Michael P. Mazenko is a writer, educator, & school administrator in Greenwood Village. He blogs at A Teacher’s View and can be found on Twitter @mmazenko. You can email him at mmazenko@gmail.com

In planning lessons, teachers are tasked with three important questions: What do we want them to know? How will we know when they know it? What will we do when they don’t?

Wiens Ranch is venue for Annual Picnic with grillin’ good fun!

Douglas County Republican Women and Lincoln Club of Colorado featured dessert auction, exciting live auction, entertainment, photo ops, speakers!

“We have to drive down spending!”

– Ken Buck

“Events like this help move us forward.”

– Mike Lynch

Colorado House Minority Leader Mike Lynch

RIGHT: John and Maria Castillo, Heidi Ganahl, Rep. Lisa Frizell

Deborah Flora (who recorded her KNUS 710 broadcast) with hubby Jonathan, Kris Lamers and Jeff Timian

Auctioneer John Anderson and wife Lisa

were

from the

and

Auction item created by Mike Lynch’s foundry

Sharon Magness Blake and Ernie Blake host Preview Party for the big Western Fantasy 30th

First Republican Presidential Debate Watch Party at Wide Open Saloon

Laurel Imer let guests know that the Colorado was the only state party doing an organized Watch Party. Besides the state GOP, others participating in the evening were Douglas, Arapahoe and Jefferson County Republican Parties. There was plenty of noise, chatter and talking to the screens. Simultaneous to the live broadcast of the two-hour debate to see who might be a breakout star of the eight, the interview with Donald Trump, candidate and former president, by Tucker Carlson was on the big screen. Salam, who moved to America nine years ago from Syria was an obvious supporter of DeSantis. Salam is a conservative because “Right is right!” he said. “I may be in the minority here,” said Karen Moeller of Jefferson County who is for Pence. “He’s not a rookie and his body language was firm – like a father figure.” Felicia Jenkins of Douglas County, who is the mom of a toddler, felt Ramaswamy was doing well on the debate stage. “People are tired of the swamp,” she said and DeSantis would be her second choice. The straw poll taken for the evening included: Based on what you saw tonight, who won the first Republican Debate? First: Vivek Ramaswamy, Second: Donald Trump, Third: Ron DeSantis Based on what you saw tonight, if the Primary was held today who would you vote for in the Presidential Primary Election? First: Donald Trump, Second: Ron DeSantis, Third: Vivek Ramaswamy.

ABOVE: Deborah Flora (who was interviewing for her KNUS 710 radio show) and hubby Jonathan Flora are flanked by Sue and Ed Goodrich

BELOW, RIGHT: Mark Peters from Castle Rock made a statement with his shirt

Screen Shot from Milwaukee with eight candidates hosted by FOX NEWS - Martha MacCallum and Bret Baier

Photos by Scottie Iverson

Salam drove from Boulder to show support for his choice of candidates

Western Fantasy Co-Chair Ernie Blake with Humanitarian Award honorees Judy and Charlie McNeil

Western Fantasy Co-Founder Sharon Magness Blake (Ernie’s Co-Chair) greeting guests

Photo by Gary Pettit

Western Fantasy Co-Founder Jean Galloway (in Broncos logo boots), her hubby Dr. Ben Galloway, former chair and honoree Pat Robinson (in rose embellished boots) and original committee member Tangy Buchanan

Photos by Scottie Iverson

VOA President and CEO Dave Schunk and wife Cathy surround singer/songwriter Billy Dawson David and Bonnie Mandarich, Mary and Tom Bagley

Ernie Blake as auctioneer

Indulge in a culinary adventure during Littleton’s Restaurant Week, where local flavors take center stage. Discover a vibrant dining scene offering diverse cuisines, from your local favorites to international fusion, all while supporting your Littleton Business Chamber Member’s talented chefs and restauranteurs. Each restaurant, winery, brewery, coffee shop, or tea house will offer its own unique offer.

Don’t miss the opportunity to “find your new favorites.”

Littleton, CO – September 8-17, 2023 – This fall, the Littleton Business Chamber is hosting Littleton’s First Annual Restaurant Week. Restaurants throughout the city of Littleton will offer special menus, discounts, or fun extras over 10 days, so try them all!

Participating restaurants include:

Black+Haus Tavern Littleton on Main

Breckenridge Brewery

Colorado Pinball Pub

Devil’s Cup Coffee Littleton

Gracefull Community Café

iN-TEA

Kate’s Wine Bar

La Rola Colombian Kitchen

Los Portales Mexican Restaurant

Palenque Cocina Y Agaveria

Pho Real

Piccino Wood Oven Pizza

Platte River Bar and Grill

Rice Bistro & Sushi

Romanos Pizzeria

Smokin Fins Littleton

Sukoon Indian Restaurant Littleton

Viewhouse Littleton

Village Inn (AM Eatery – new concept/remodeled)

Visit the Littleton Business Chamber home page www.littletonbusinesschamber.org or the event page at Littleton Restaurant Week September 8-17 – Littleton Business Chamber Search by restaurant name or dining options. Link to the Restaurants home page where you can find their unique special. When you visit these restaurants tell them, “I’m here for Restaurant Week and they will serve you with Littleton Love.

“We are so excited to support our chamber members during Littleton Restaurant Week” said Korri Lundock, Executive Director, Littleton Business Chamber. “We have so many great restaurants, wineries, breweries, coffee, and tea shops– there is no need to leave Littleton when going out! Each restaurant is creating their own unique specials! You can play an hour of free pinball, enjoy specialty appetizers/desserts/menus, discounted meals, drink specials, even try new tea flights. Everyone can find something they love. Don’t forget to start booking your holiday parties as you find your new favorites.”

Where did I hop on the Island Hopper

In my last column I provided an overview of my South Pacific Island Hopper adventure trip. There is nothing wrong with camping out at a Hawaiian beach resort for a week, on Kauai or the Big Island, but sadly not Maui these days. But if you want a real look at the South Pacific islands, try United’s Island Hopper.

Our first Island was Majuro in the Marshall Islands. This nation with a population of 42 thousand is spread out over 5 islands and

29 coral atolls. It is not clear exactly how an atoll forms but the simplest way to look at is that there was once a massive volcano that over millions of years sank into the sea. As the rim reached sea level, coral grew along the rim forming a circular lagoon. Any geologists in the audience are free to weigh in.

Majuro has a single road running around the circular rim. On either side of the main road are small simple waterfront homes.

Bankers Note

Continued from page 4

controlling government entity to restrict our individual freedoms?

America was not freed from tyrants, nor was America built, by the timid. She was forged in the fires of individualism. Each citizen took responsibility for his own freedom. Our country’s backbone is the Constitution. Said document recognizes that individual liberty does not spring from government but from our Creator. Hence Thomas Jefferson’s statement in the Declaration of

Independence: “We hold these Truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, among them Life, Liberty and the Ownership of Property.”

Jay Davidson is founder and CEO of a commercial bank. He is a student of the Austrian School of Economics and a rabid capitalist. He believes there is a direct connection between individual right and responsibility, our Constitution, capitalism, and the intent of our Creator.

There are a few small hotels and restaurants. You can easily see the island in a day and hop back onto the plane, next to Micronesia.

That brought us to Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. Unlike flat and narrow Majuro, Pohnpei was lush and Hilly, a smaller version of Kauai.

We took a short hike to the Kepirohi waterfall for some photos and a swim (see photo). We then visited Nan Madol, an ancient fortress or palace for ancient Micronesian rulers. Building began in the 1100s and had been abandoned ty the time Europeans arrived early in the 19th century.

Think of it as a South Pacific version of Machu Pichu. Hiking through the jungle to the beachfront ruins had an Indiana Jones vibe to it!

Another challenging hike to Sokehs Ridge carried us over wet rocks and steep pitches. Fortunately, no bones were broken. Our island tour was via a

BY BRIAN C. JOONDEPH

like we were in America. From the airport halls and configuration to the signage, and finally the immigration officials, we felt like we were home despite being half a world away.

In Guam we sampled local cuisine and visited several beautiful beaches. The hotels are big, and shopping includes the same big box stores we see at home.

taxi hired for the day.

The Island Hopper journey ended in Guam. When getting off the plane we immediately felt

From Guam one can fly back to Honolulu to conclude the official Island Hopper adventure. Or it’s a relatively short flight to Palau, the Philippines or even Japan for some further adventure if you have additional time. For a different type of warm weather vacation, consider hopping across the South Pacific Islands!

Change of plans—Aurora residents won’t be voting on strong mayor form of government

BY FREDA MIKLIN GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER

At some point in their lives, most Americans experience frustration with the nuances of government rules. But they assume that longtime elected officials don’t get tripped up on those rules. That is not always the case.

It is public knowledge that Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, who held state office from 1989 to 2008 and was a Member of Congress from 2009 to 2019, was behind the effort to ask the voters of his city to consider changing its municipal government from a council/manager form to a mayor/council type, which would eliminate the city manager and place significant authority for the

day-to-day management of the government in the hands of the mayor, with oversight by the city council. The overriding arguments in favor of each option is that the mayor is elected, therefore accountable to the residents of the city via the ballot or, in extreme situations, the possibility of recall; whereas, a city manager is ostensibly a professional manager without a political agenda.

Mayor Coffman was forthright about his involvement once petitions were turned in. Those petitions were later deemed sufficient to put the measure on the November ballot.

The citizen-initiated referendum also contained language that would change term limits for Aurora’s mayor and city council from the current 12 years to eight. After the city clerk certified

that sufficient valid signatures had been submitted to get the initiative on the ballot, some Aurora residents made public statements that they were only told the ballot measure addressed term limits, not the change in the form of government.

Reportedly, 21 people who signed the petitions officially protested that they were not given correct information about the initiative when they signed, Those protests have not all been fully adjudicated. The election calendar requires all protests to be resolved before September 8, when the referendum must be certified to the Arapahoe County Clerk. Since proponents of the initiative cannot be assured that that deadline will be met, they have announced that they will withdraw the measure and will try again in

2025.

Mayor Coffman was first elected to the office he currently holds in 2019. Under existing rules, he is eligible for two more four-year terms and has announced his intention to run for re-election in November. Only current City Council Member Juan Marcano has been certified as a candidate for Aurora mayor as of this writing, however there is still time to turn in nominating petitions, which require signatures from 100 registered Aurora voters. Rob Lee Andrews, president and CEO of Community Works, an organization that helps people find employment, has also announced that he intends to run for mayor of Aurora but is likewise not yet certified.

fmiklin.villager@gmail. com

TEXT TAPS23 TO 76278 ON YOUR MOBILE PHONE TO BID IN THE 18TH ANNUAL COLORADO CELEBRITY CLASSIC SILENT AUCTION

Items available to view right now. Items will be available for bidding on Thursday, September 7. Auction closes on Saturday, September 9 at 8:15 p.m. You do not need to be present at the event to win. Winners will be notified via text message and can pick up their items at the event or make arrangements for local pickup or delivery. All proceeds from the auction will benefit TAPS services for military survivors in Colorado.

Michelle Redfearn brings education and experience to her quest for a seat on the LPS school board

BY FREDA MIKLIN STAFF WRITER

Michelle Redfearn holds a B.S. in nursing from Southeast Missouri State University, an M.S. in pediatric nursing with an emphasis in education, including curriculum development, from St. Louis University, and a Ph.D. in nursing from the University of Missouri. She serves as affiliate faculty at Regis University, where she teaches pediatric nursing.

told us that current school board members don’t formally endorse candidates for the board, we noticed that nearly all the current and former board members present came over to greet her warmly.

As a member of the LPS school board, Michelle hopes to maintain academic rigor while focusing on children as individuals, to provide them with the best chance to succeed. Other stated goals she has identified are:

• Recruiting, retaining, and supporting exceptional teachers, administrators, and staff;

THIS DICK TANNER DESIGNED EXECUTIVE HOME IS A SYMPHONY OF STYLE, QUALITY, VOLUME, AND LIVABILITY. ITS UNIQUE FLOORPLAN INCLUDES TWO STUDIES AND A LUXURIOUS GUEST BEDROOM ON THE MAIN FLOOR. WITH ITS SPACIOUS ROOMS, EXQUISITE FIREPLACES, AND EVERY IMAGINABLE AMENITY, IT IS TRULY IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN!! FROM ITS PERCH OVERLOOKING THE VERDANT PRESERVE, A NATURE PRESERVE IN PRESTIGIOUS GREENWOOD VILLAGE, ITS OVER 10,000 PLUS SQUARE FEET OF SPACE, INCLUDING ITS WALKOUT LEVEL, OFFERS AMENITIES AND PRIVACY THAT ARE RARE, EVEN IN THIS UPSCALE COMMUNITY. WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST FENCED YARDS, THE OWNERS HAVE CREATED A VIRTUAL PRIVATE OASIS ON THIS HEAVILY TREED 3/4-ACRE SITE. WITH FIRE PITS AND OUTDOOR KITCHENS ON THE MAIN AND LOWER LEVELS AN EXQUISITE WATERFALL, A POOL AND HOT TUB ONE STILL HAS THE USE OF THE OLYMPIC SIZED POOL, TENNIS COURTS AND WALKING TRAILS OF THE EXTRAORDINARY PRESERVE COMMUNITY. WITH 2 STAIRCASES TO ALL LEVELS, DRAMATIC VOLUMINOUS ROOMS WITH EVERY AMENITY IMAGINABLE, BRAZILIAN CHERRY FLOORS A FABULOUS STATE OF THE ART GOURMET KITCHEN, A WINE CELLAR, EXERCISE ROOM, EXTENSIVE STORAGE AND AN INTEGRATED THEATRE ROOM... WHY LEAVE HOME?

$4,995,000

Michelle and her husband of of 26 years, Dr. Ryan Redfearn, a dentist in Highlands Ranch and Englewood, are the parents of four children. The oldest, Merrill, who will soon graduate from college, began attending Littleton Public Schools in 2005. The youngest, Matthew, is a senior at Arapahoe High School. When he graduates this spring, members of the Redfearn family will have attended Littleton Public Schools continuously for 20 years. She told The Villager, “I’ve been the PTO president at Arapahoe High School for the past three years. Before that, I was the vice-president, and before that, I was the secretary. I ran after-prom for many years, before and after the pandemic. As long as I’ve had kids at Arapahoe, that’s where I

wanted to be. I’ve always been where my kids are. As Matthew approached graduation, I realized my time in my kids’ school was ending,

• Being an informed and fiscally responsible steward of education funds;

• Advocating for community and family involvement to create partners in education.

but I wasn’t done yet. After having spent 20 years in my kids’ schools, I decided I could serve my community by putting what I’ve learned to use as a member of the LPS school board.”

We met Michelle at the ribbon cutting for LPS’ new EPIC campus. Although she

Two of the five seats on the non-partisan LPS school board will be filled in the November 7 election. One of those positions is presently held by incumbent board member, Lindley McCrary, who is eligible for re-election and has declared her intention to run for another term. The other board seat is currently filled by Robert Reichardt. Mr. Reichardt is term-limited and has announced his candidacy for Littleton City Council. All positions serve at large, so the two candidates on the November ballot who receive the highest number of votes from residents of the LPS district will be elected to a four-year term.

fmiklin.villager@gmail.com

4701 PRESERVE PARKWAY

Michelle Redfearn has been an LPS parent since 2005 and teaches pediatric nursing at Regis University.

Photo by Freda Miklin

Cherry Hills and U.S. Amateur “Pay it Forward” for Colorado Youth

National championship becomes a “Turning Point” for youth through charitable donations to Palmer Foundation, Evans Scholarship, and First Tee

Cherry Hills, one of America’s most historic country clubs and host of this week’s 123rd U.S. Amateur Championship, presented $1.5 million in charitable donations last week to youth organizations: the Palmer Scholarship Foundation, Evans Scholars Foundation, and First Tee Colorado chapters.

“The partnership between the USGA and Cherry Hills dates back to the 1938 U.S. Open. The membership cherishes this relationship. Our commitment is manifested through volunteerism, financial support, and charitable endeavors by our membership,” said Jim Hillary, Championship Chair for the 123rd United States Amateur. “We could not have done this without valued support from the USGA. I would like to thank the USGA for carrying the torch, the “Friends of this Championship” for their leadership, and of course, the membership of Cherry Hills, for their dedication to championship golf and their boundless generosity to provide a better life for the next generation.”

The Junior Experience, located at the spectator entrance to this week’s U.S. Amateur, has been a focal point for attendees and youth to learn more about golf and the opportunities it can offer young people including jobs and scholarships. Last Saturday, during the United States Amateur, at the Junior Experience, Hillary, along with Fred Perpall, President of the United States Golf Association (USGA), John Bodenhamer, Chief Championships officer of the USGA, and Kevin Hammer of the USGA Executive Committee, presented donation checks to representatives of The Palmer Foundation (Dave Packer),

Evans Scholarship Foundation (George Solich), and First Tee Colorado Chapters (David Simon) along with a large group of recipients, kids, and families on hand.

REACHING YOUTH THROUGH GOLF

This charitable donation will have a significant impact on the lives of young people across the Centennial State. The amount donated represents a three-year-long fundraising effort by the Cherry Hills membership leading up to the Championship and supported through its partnership with the USGA.

“Our relationship with Cherry Hills and hosting major championships here over the years has been nothing short of historic. This exceptional club continues to raise the bar as a championship host site,” said Perpall. “What we have seen with the Junior Experience this week, and the way this membership has come together to support these initiatives falls directly in line with the USGA’s mission to grow golf and make the game more inclusive by creating opportunities for the young girls and boys here today, and across the state of Colorado.”

The Junior Experience and its volunteers interacted with kids and families all week, reaching more than 2,000 youth. Youngsters have had hands-on opportunities to chip, putt, swing in a golf simulator, and participate in golf-themed STEM and art activities. Through the First Tee Colorado chapters, the Colorado Golf Association (Solich Caddie & Leadership Academy and Youth on Course), and other PGA and LPGA junior programs, young attendees were exposed to various golf and life skills. The Evans and Palmer Scholarship programs also presented information for kids and their parents to apply for and receive scholarships through summer work programs at Cherry Hills and other participating clubs.

PRESERVING HISTORYPROPELLING FUTURE LEGENDS

Championship history runs deep at Cherry Hills. Golfing legend Arnold Palmer came to the 1960 U.S. Open at Cherry Hills with a U.S. Amateur title under his belt (from 1954) that had solidly, and dramatically, affirmed his belief in his game. Palmer was on the brink of quitting competitive golf leading into the 1954 Amateur and the heroic win gave him the ambition to go on and have an extraordinary life on and off the golf course, reigning as the sport’s King.

“The Turning Point. That’s what it was in my life,” Palmer told Golfweek in 2014. “It gave me the confidence that I was ready to turn professional and play the PGA Tour.” The road to The King’s Hall of

Fame golf career and legendary popularity began with winning the 1954 U.S. Amateur and was solidified in the record books when he captured that 1960 U.S. Open at Cherry Hills with a dramatic come-from-behind finish.

In honor of the indelible connection forged by Palmer’s iconic victories in both 1954 and 1960, the Cherry Hills Palmer Scholarship was created in 2001 to award scholarship assistance to deserving coworkers and golf caddies of Cherry Hills. Over the past two decades, the Palmer Scholarship Foundation has served as a turning point for thousands of employees who were awarded scholarships valued at more than $2 million. These scholarships have been used towards agronomy degrees, college tuition assistance, English as a second language classes, certification as a sommelier and other educational pursuits.

Cherry Hills has a rich tradition with the Western Golf Association and the Evans Scholars Foundation.

Cherry Hills has supported Evans Scholars dating back to the 1960s.

The Cherry Hills Par Club, which supports and raises money for the Evans Scholar ship Foundation, has been ranked No. 1 in the state of Colorado and the country for its fundraising efforts.

Since 2019, 14 Cherry Hills caddies have earned Evans Scholarships. There have also been 54 caddies from the club who have graduated as Evans Scholars since 1967.

First Tee Colorado’s chapters are local youth development organizations that teach

life skills

and help kids and teens build strength of character. These nonprofits have impacted more than 150,000 Colorado kids through the chapters of Green Valley Ranch, Colorado Rocky Mountain, and Southern Colorado. Using golf as the conduit, these chapters teach life lessons around the organizations’ nine core values. These values help

them become positive citizens who are poised for success on and off the course.

A CHAMPIONSHIP LEGACY

Cherry Hills has a storied history of hosting championships. In fact, Hall of Fame golf writer, Herbert Warren Wind reflected on the 1960 Open and observed, “It is what the Committee did to bring about the Championship. Cherry Hills, no question about it, was far more prepared to run the Championship than any Club had ever been before. That spirit of volunteered leadership remains at the club today.”

That legacy lives on at this year’s U.S. Amateur at Cherry Hills. “This campaign was a resounding success. The ’23 Amateur will set a new mark for attendance, concessions, and community involvement. In addition, Cherry Hills will showcase how a Club brings a community together through employment opportunities, associated golf activities and charity,” said Hillary.

About Palmer Scholarship Foundation

The Arnold Palmer Scholarship Fund was created in 2001 to provide Cherry Hills Country Club employees and caddies with financial assistance for a range of educational pursuits. Since the Foundation’s inception, the Palmer Scholarship has awarded over $2 million to these quality individuals. To learn more, visit chcc.com/jobs.

About Evans Scholarship Foundation

Operated by the Western Golf Association and founded by famed amateur golfer Charles “Chick” Evans in 1930, the Evans Scholars Foundation has helped more than 11,800 young men and women graduate from college through caddie programs. The Evans Scholarship is a full housing and tuition college scholarship awarded to golf caddies with limited financial means. This year, 1,100 Evans Scholars are enrolled in 24 leading universities nationwide, including University of Colorado Boulder. Evans Scholars are selected on the basis of strong caddie record, excellent grades, outstanding character and demonstrated financial need.

Individuals who complete the three-summer WGA Caddie Academy program qualify to apply, and to date, 150 Caddie Academy graduates have been awarded the Evans Scholarship. To learn more, visit wgaesf.org.

About First Tee

First Tee is a nonprofit devoted to helping kids succeed in life and uses golf as a tool to teach life lessons wrapped around nine core values. These values help them become positive citizens who are poised for success on and off the course, bringing together kids of all ages and from all walks of life so they can learn about golf and build positive character traits. Golf is the gateway to teach kids about life skills in fun and engaging ways. What makes First Tee unique from other junior golf programs is the variety of the curriculum. First Tee programs help kids improve their academics, so they are prepared to get into college or land a job. Participants develop strong bonds and relationships that last well beyond the time they spend on the golf course. Golf is only where our story begins. Visit firsttee.org.

Cherry Hills Country Club thanks all participants, golfers, volunteers, sponsors and the USGA for bringing world class golf to view! And congratulations to winner Nick Dunlap for the win!

$1.5 million donated

Meet the artists of

Art On The Green

Shara Oliman

How/when did you know you liked creating art?

I spent much of my childhood engaged in artistic endeavors and am able to say I don’t have memories of a time I wasn’t expressing creativity through visual art in some capacity. I did move away from this focus in my professional life for other pursuits early on. Only when my twins (now 13 years old) were born did I rediscover my passion for the arts, and begin to work with paper collage as an outlet for self-actualization and free flowing creative expression. Now, a day does not go by without some sort of creation.

What inspires your creativity?

I am a careful observer of color, the play of light and my surroundings. As a nature lover, I use my discoveries of the beauty around me to inspire my work. Whether it be the colors found in a sunrise, the movement of the wind through the leaves, the shapes of a landscape or the way I feel while immersed in nature, I

find great inspiration from these interpretations and reflections.

What is your favorite piece of art?

My favorite pieces in my home right now are a trio of representational lithographs by Israeli artist, Nahum Gutman. These works feature

Brenda Blaesing

How/when did you know you liked creating art?

A college photography class changed my life. Instead of barely looking at things as I went through my days, I began to actually see them and pay attention. I noticed the interplay of light and shadow, the different qualities of light, the juxtaposition of patterns and much more. I was also enthralled by the magic of the darkroom. That class sparked my interest in all kinds of art and renewed a childhood fascination with making pottery, first handbuilding and then throwing. Woodturning came much later, after a chance one-day class in making bowls. There were many similarities between the two spinning disci-

plines and my experience as a potter helped me create well-proportioned shapes in wood. As I work, I feel connected to the material, as if we’re working together in a synergistic collaboration.

What inspires your creativity?

My work is inspired by the natural world—the shapes, colors and patterns found in plants and animals. Combining my passion for art with my life-long concern for the environment, each of my pieces has its own environmental story. Pottery pieces depict or represent a place or species with a problem or success story. Wood pieces are named after environmentalists, with reference to their work. As people use these pieces on a daily basis, I hope they will reconnect with nature and be inspired to make small lifestyle changes that can make a big difference for the future of our world.

rich, earthy colors and draw you in with the editorial nature of the work. I also will forever admire the work of Mark Bradford, whose large-scale, abstract collages, using recycled materials are aspirational. His personal story of becoming a world-renowned artist as a late-bloomer reminds me to always follow my passion.

What do you enjoy most about being an artist?

I have so much gratitude for being able to freely explore my creativity as an artist. The most profound joy I feel is being able to express with genuine emotion from my heart and share that in a way that brings happiness and healing to another person. It is deeply gratifying to connect with others in this way.

What is your favorite piece of art by you or someone else?

Of my own work, my favorite piece is the one I’m working on at any given moment. I enjoy researching the stories and conceptualizing how best to communicate the message. Of other artists’ work, my current favorites are the sculptural wood spoons by Kristin LeVier. She draws on the rich heritage of lovespoons while also being strongly influenced by nature.

What do you enjoy most about being an artist?

I love everything about the creative process, from conceptualizing and planning to making and decorating. I enjoy giving new life to old materials (fallen trees from the community or lumps of recycled clay), keeping them from the landfill and making something beautiful from them. Being an artist is a continual journey of exploration— learning new techniques, starting down a path, taking detours and seeing where they lead. Art helps me fully engage with the world around me.

Tallamy Acorn Box

U.S. Rep. Jason Crow pays a visit to CHV Mayor and City Council

health challenges. Our areas of focus during the past two years have been community safety, infrastructure, and mental health,” he shared.

east Aurora.

On August 23, U.S. Rep. Jason Crow, now in his third term representing Colorado’s 6th Congressional District, paid a visit to the Cherry Hills Village Mayor and City Council, accompanied by members of his local and Washington, D.C. staff

Crow talked about his constituent services team, headed up by Terrell Horton, who can be reached at Terrell.Horton@mail. house.gov. The congressman encouraged constituents to contact that group if they have, “issues that involve the I.R.S., Social Security benefits, Veterans’ benefits, Medicaid, Medicare, any situation in which you aren’t getting money or benefits to which you are entitled from an agency of the federal government,” adding, “Since I’ve been in office, we’ve closed over 5,000 cases and returned over $17,000,000 that was owed to constituents.”

He also talked about community project funding (CPF) that was re-instituted in the Congress in 2021. Crow emphasized that unlike earmarks, discontinued ten years earlier after they were shown to be used for sometimes highly questionable purposes, CPF includes “a ton of oversight,” and fully transparency. “All these requests are posted on Members of Congress’ websites,” he explained, continuing, “There are very stringent criteria about who is eligible to apply. The application and review process is based on the notion that if the government is going to spend money for services, the representative for the community is best situated to help direct that money.”

He went on, “One percent of discretionary funding is allocated to CPFs. That allows me to see where the largest needs are and direct the money.”

Last year, Crow said, he was able “to get $21 million in funding for 16 projects focused on mental health, domestic violence response, police training and equipment, and even a new kennel for the K-9 unit of the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Department.”

Other uses of CPF funding in Crow’s 6th Congressional District included, “Several million dollars to help build the new Aurora Mental Health Facility and $1.5 million for the Cherry Creek School District’s new Traverse Academy for students in grades four to 12 struggling with serious mental

Using the normal appropriations process, Crow told the council that he was able to get $20 million, which was matched by the state, to construct the new I-70 and Picadilly Street interchange, currently under construction in

CHV Mayor Katy Brown brought up the failed land use bill that was proposed by Governor Polis during the late days of the 2023 legislative session and, she said, “will be making a return” (in the 2024 legislative session), noting that it is “an enormous issue for a city like CHV.”

Mayor Brown pointed out, “We know that affordable housing

is a problem...but, a 2.5-acre vacant lot in CHV just sold for $4.2 million; it’s not possible to turn land like that into affordable housing.” She asked Crow to exert any influence he could to prevent a repeat of what happened during the last legislative session when the cities were at cross-purposes with the state. Crow acknowledged that there is a conflict between the desire of state officials to provide housing that people can afford to buy and the legitimate concerns of cities like CHV.

fmiklin.villager@gmail.com

The mayor and city council members in CHV shared their concerns with Congressman Crow.

Photos by Freda Miklin

U.S. Rep. Jason Crow spent an hour sharing news from Washington and listening to CHV officials.

Patrice

Tea Towels

BY PATRICE MATTESON

Someone came into my shop and after looking at the new and vintage tea towels asked, “Why are they called tea towels?” This was something I hadn’t thought of before. I know they are used for drying dishes and I love collecting the handembroidered vintage ones with days of the week, puppies, flowers and kitty items on them. The newer decorative ones now have farm animals, kitchen items, nature, fruits, and seasonal items. Still I didn’t see any relation to tea.

So I did some research. Tea towels date back to England in the 18th century, when they were used to insulate tea pots at tea ceremonies, dry fine china

Ed Sheeran was pretty nearly Perfect

BY FREDA MIKLIN STAFF WRITER

there are children here.” Then he changed up the lyrics to the song he was singing.

and cover baked goods.

So it’s simple - tea towels have beautiful designs and are decorative, whereas dish towels are more industrial in form.

What can I do with a tea towel?

• Line a tea tray

• Cover your hot rolls in it

• Use it as a hot pad

• Keep your greens dry by placing them on the tea towel

• Place wet dishes on it

• Use it to decorate your guest bathroom

• Line the shelves of your kitchen cabinet

• Give it as a gift

• Use it to gift wrap a gift

Enjoy the fun and funky and decorate your kitchen! We have many to choose from at the Red Apron Vintage.

Just like he did the last time he was in Denver, worldwide artist and musical genius Ed Sheeran paid an unannounced visit to Children’s Hospital when he was here this past weekend. That’s the kind of person he is and it comes across in his music and his performance. During the middle of a song Saturday night at Empower Field, he stopped and said, “Wait, I can’t swear,

The show played to a record-setting crowd of 85,000 fans, all of whom had to wait through a lightning delay followed by a rain delay followed by another rain delay, until he finally took the stage at 10:00 p.m. The concert was scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. It was in the 7:00 p.m. hour when the second opening act, Khalid, was playing that the first lightning delay got called.

The audience, like the star performer, was chill, as they

say. Even the long delay didn’t result in complaints or bad attitudes. The crowd knew the show would eventually go on and it did, par excellence. Sheeran played for two straight hours, all the hits and the singalongs, plus lots of powerful new music.

The highlight of the evening was when he played his most famous love song, “Perfect,” and 85,000 fans lifted their phones with their flashlights shining, singing along and moving with the music. If you haven’t seen it, I posted it on social media.

fmiklin.villager@gmail.com

As the stage moved around while he sang, multiple images of Ed Sheeran were displayed on screens shaped like guitar picks.

When the artist asked for light, 85,000 flashlights lit the stadium.

Curtain’s about to rise on Prime, Payton eras

As Hank Williams Jr. once upon a time sang: Are you ready for some football?

The National Football League’s dress rehearsals are over, and the first college football games of 2023 (that count) were played last Saturday—in Dublin, Los Angeles, Jackson (Mississippi) and a few other outposts.

(In case you missed that abbreviated start, Notre Dame swamped Navy 42-3; Southern Cal tuned up for its September 30 date at Colorado by drubbing San Jose State 56-28; and Jackson State won its post-Deion opener 37-7 over South Carolina State.)

Coach Prime debuts on Saturday at TCU. Coming off a berth in the College Football Playoffs after the 2022 regular season, the Horned Frogs begin 2023 ranked No. 17.

That’s a tough way for CU (ranked 81st among 133 schools despite coming off a 1-11 season) to start the Neon Deion Era, but Coach Sanders has all but told everyone not to worry.

Following a makeover of historic magnitude—one that created a buzz of both anticipation and outcry—only nine scholarship players return from last year’s doleful Buffaloes squad.

But Ralphie VI is still there, so not everything has changed.

TCU is one of five opponents on CU’s 12-game schedule in the top 18 nationally in the preseason poll. USC is No. 6; Utah, 14; Oregon, 15; and Oregon State, 18.

Among the other seven games, there are no apparent layups. Colorado State is the foe in Week 3. The Rams have about 50 newcomers themselves, in Jay Norvell’s second season as head coach.

Two other teams that played in bowl games last season, UCLA and Washington State, also await. UCLA is ranked just outside the Top 25 heading into the season.

So, it could be another long one. But then again, you never know. Jackson State went 4-8 the year before Coach Prime took over. After a Covid-shortened 4-3 season in 2019, backto-back years of 11-2 and 12-1 followed.

CU faithful, eager for a return to the glory days of Bill McCartney, are more than hopeful.

Same goes for Broncomaniacs. Equally success-challenged since that Peyton Manning-led Super Bowl L conquest after the 2015 season, they’re counting on magic from Sean Payton in

his first season as head coach. That could be a tall order, too.

Denver’s 17-game 2023 schedule is among the 12 toughest of all 32, based on both opponents’ winning percentage in 2022 and their predicted records for the coming season.

Seven of the Broncos’ games are against 2022 playoff teams—Kansas City and the Chargers twice each, plus Buffalo, Minnesota and Miami. (Plus, the New York Jets now have Aaron Rodgers.)

Like Coach Prime in Boulder, Coach Payton has brought many new faces to Dove Valley. Almost half of the opening day 53-man active roster figures to be new to the Broncos.

Denver finished 5-12 last year, so some new blood is not a bad thing. Maybe it will fuel the kind of first-year success Payton enjoyed when he took over the Saints in 2006.

New Orleans won only three and lost 13 the year before his arrival there. His inaugural team went 10-6, finished first in the NFC South, and made it to the Conference Championship game.

Payton’s first team missed a trip to the Super Bowl because its four turnovers, an intentional-grounding safety and a

missed field goal, combined, enabled the Chicago Bears to win easily (39-14), despite being outgained 375-335.

The Broncos open the 2023 season at home against the hated Raiders, coached by Josh McDaniels, who directed Denver to 11 wins and 17 losses in 200910 before being fired.

Can this opener be the beginning of a similar march back to the postseason? Last Saturday night’s rout of the Rams certainly inspires belief that something good is possible. Though, neither team’s starters saw action.

The day before the Broncos host the Raiders, CU renews an old rivalry with Nebraska in its home opener. The Buffs have won six of the last 12 meetings against the Cornhuskers but were 0-9 before that.

Nebraska has had six straight losing seasons and will be playing for a new head coach, too, in Matt Ruhle. Thus, ’Husker fans also have renewed hope.

We should get an idea pretty quickly how both Prime and Payton will fare in 2023.

All things considered, I think winning records—as in 7-5 and 9-8, respectively—would be huge steps in the right direction.

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.

Best medical alert systems you don’t have to wear

Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any monitored medical alert devices that you know of that don’t require pushing a wearable help button? My 82-year-old father, who lives alone, has fallen twice during the past year but doesn’t like wearing an SOS pendant button.

Searching Daughter

Dear Searching, Yes, there are actually several monitored medical alert systems and other technologies on the market today that have voiceactivated capabilities that let seniors call for help using voice commands, without pushing a wearable help button.

These new technologies are very helpful for elderly seniors that live alone who forget, or prefer not to wear a help button, as well as for those who have physical

BY DONALD PETERSON

Dear Readers,

Test Your “Fraud IQ”

True or False?

1. The top ways identity thieves get your information is through purse snatching, mail theft, dumpster diving and e-mail or phone “phishing”.

2. It’s a good idea to carry your Social Security card with you.

3. Once you have subscribed to the Colorado “No Call” List, you do not have to worry about telemarketers.

4. There is a law that requires charities to spend a certain percentage of their income on

challenges that makes using a help button difficult.

By simply speaking the “wake words” these devices will connect your dad to a trained dispatcher at a 24/7 monitoring center who will find out what the problem is, and get him the help he needs, whether it’s calling emergency services, or contacting a family member, friend or neighbor to come and help him.

All of these technologies also offer family/caregiver smartphone apps that will help you keep tabs on your dad from afar and notify you know if a problem occurs.

Hands-Free Medical Alerts

Some of the best voicefocused medical alert systems available today are GetSafe, Aloe Care Health and HandsFree Health.

Rated by U.S. News &

programs and services.

5. Foreign lotteries are illegal in the U.S.

6. As long as you don’t buy any magazines or send any money, playing sweepstakes is harmless entertainment.

7. Most investment fraud is perpetrated by long term, trusted advisors.

8. If you have a trusted family member, a financial advisor, or someone with your Power of Attorney who is paying your bills and managing your money, it is critical that you review your account statements.

Fraud Quiz Answers:

1.TRUE: Thieves are everywhere, even churches, looking to steal purses, checkbooks, credit cards and other information. They are also looking for checks, pre-approved credit card applications and account statements in your mail box. They rummage through trash looking for unshredded information containing account numbers. They also send “phishy” e-mail asking you

World Report as their No. 1 medical alert system for 2023, GetSafe (GetSafe.com) comes with a cellular base console, voice-activated and push wall buttons, an optional personal help button and fall detection sensors. To call for help your dad would simply say “Call 911” twice and he would be connected to GetSafe’s 24/7 monitoring service. Prices for GetSafe start at $79 plus a $30 monthly monitoring fee. Another highly rated system is Aloe Care Health (AloeCare.com), which comes with a voice-activated Smart Hub and optional wearable help button with fall detection capabilities. This system would connect your dad to the Aloe Care 24/7 monitoring center by simply saying “Emergency” repeatedly until connected. It can also make voice command nonemergency calls to preassigned contacts. Prices

to verify account numbers by impersonating your bank, credit card companies, government agency, etc.

2. FALSE: It’s a good idea to have nothing in your purse or wallet that contains your Social Security number. An identity thief can apply for and receive credit in your name, credit cards, loans, gambling credit, cars, etc.

3. FALSE: Although consumers who have subscribed to the Colorado No Call List have reported a decrease in calls, there are exemptions, including non-profit and charitable organizations, politicians and those with whom you have an established business relationship, such as phone companies. The No Call List will not stop criminal telemarketers—to protect yourself, simply do not talk to strangers!

4. FALSE: It is the donor’s responsibility to determine how his or her donations are used. Ask charities for a copy of their annual report and contact the Better Business Bureau’s Wise

start at $150 plus a monthly fee of $30.

The WellBe by HandsFree Health (HandsFreeHealth. com) is a nice third option to consider. This comes with the WellBe Medical Alert Speaker that would let your dad call for help by saying “OK WellBe Call Emergency.”

WellBe also offers hands-free calling and messaging to contacts, will answer health questions, and provide reminders for medications and doctor appointments. It also offers a medical alert watch and pendant (sold separately) with fall detection capabilities. WellBe starts at $100 plus $20/month.

Smart Home Solution

Instead of a traditional medical alert system, another terrific hands-free way to call for help is to get your dad an Amazon Echo device (prices range from $50 to

Giving Alliance at www.give. org, or 303-222-4444.

5. TRUE: Federal law prohibits mailing payments to purchase any ticket, share or chance in any foreign lottery. Con artists from Canada have conned hundreds of Coloradans into sending millions in payments for “taxes” before collecting on their Canadian lottery winnings.

6. FALSE: When you play sweepstakes, your name is frequently put on marketing lists bought and sold by other direct marketers. Eventually, your name can end up on criminal telemarketing lists.

7. TRUE: The vast majority of investment fraud cases prosecuted by the Denver District Attorney involve advisors who have long-term, trusting relationships with the victims. The perpetrators use trust, and sometimes faith, as their weapons. No matter how long you’ve known or trust someone, don’t make a major investment decision without getting a second opinion from a lawyer, accountant, or the Colorado Division of Securities.

8. TRUE: In all cases of theft by family members, trusted advisors, and Powers of Attorney, victims have given the total control to others and did not review financial statements. Perpetrators took advantage of the victims’ trust. In addition to your own review of accounts, surround yourself with several advisors and caregivers who can provide a system of checks and balances, so that no one person has total control over your finances.

What are the four key medical/ estate plan documents you need

$250) and sign him up for Alexa Together (Amazon. com/AlexaTogether). This is remote caregiving service that will turn his Echo into a medical alert system. To get help your dad would say “Alexa, call for help” to be connected to their 24/7 Urgent Response center. Alexa Together, which costs $20/ month, also works with compatible third-party fall detection devices like Vayyar and AltumView. If a fall is detected, Alexa can ask your dad if he needs help, then connect him to the Urgent Response line and alert his emergency contacts. Amazon Echo devices also provide a bevy of other features your dad may find useful. For example, Echo’s will let your dad make handsfree calls, receive reminders, set timers and alarms, control smart home devices, check the weather, play his favorite music and much more.

now?

Many of my clients have asked what are the critical documents needed, particularly in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply being married does not give you the legal right to gain access to your spouse’s medical records or make medical decisions on your spouse’s behalf, even in an emergency. To avoid this problem and to help others care for you and to achieve your overall estate planning goals, the following documents create an effective medical/estate plan package:

1. Healthcare Power of 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 from the Office of the Denver District Attorney, from the Identity Theft Handbook. Website: www.denverda. org; Denver District Attorney Fraud Line: 720-913-9179.

Successful 29th Annual Sister Cities Delegation trip to Mongolia

BY SIR DONALD PETERSON-HONORARY CONSUL FOR SWEDEN

Denver’s Sister Cities International

Eighteen members of the Den ver Sister Cities organization were recent delegates in the 29 Ulaanbaatar-Denver Delegation to Mongolia, from July 23 through August 11, 2023. The delega tion was arranged and headed by James Wagenlander, the Honorary Consul for Mongolia, whose first trip to Mongolia was in 1991. The Delegation trip was coordinated by Nomadic Expeditions, an eco-tourism company specializ ing in luxury, adventurous travel, which included a stay at the Three Camel Lodge in the Gobi Desert. Among other distinguished delegates on the trip were Mary Lee Chin—Incoming Chair, Board of Trustees of Denver Botanic Gardens, Beth McCann—Denver District Attorney, Hon. Hub Stern, Denver District Court Judge, Ret., Al Gerace—Committee Chair, Denver Botanic Gardens Outreach Committee and Sir Donald Peter son—Honorary Consul for Swe den in Colorado.

with student/community exchanges, lectures and various cultural gatherings.

multi-party representative democ racy. Executive power is exercised by the Prime Minister, who is the head of Government and the Cabinet. The 29th DSCI Delegation was favored with an audience with the Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, His Honor Dolgorsuren Sumiyabazar.

cation. Nomadic families move approximately four times per year, according to the seasons and the availability of suitable grassland.

Bactrian camels, with two humps, are acclimated to the extreme hot and cold temperatures of the Gobi Desert, in contrast to their one-humped relatives, the Dromedary camel. Wild and domestic Bactrian camels make up 6% of all camels worldwide, and are found in Mongolia and China. Camels are used for milk, transportation and packing of gers/ belongings in the desert areas. There is a spirited Camel Festival in March, every year.

Denver Sister Cities International (DSCI) is a vibrant and growing organization that believes in bringing together local citizens

the country, in a valley along the Tuul River, and has over one million residents. The name “Ulayan Bayatur” literally translates to

Sister City. Outside of Mongolia, itself, Denver is home to one of the largest Mongolian populations in the U.S.

Mongolia lies between Russia to the North and China to the South, and is the largest and most sparsely populated independent country in the world. Roughly the size of Alaska, Mongolia has a population of 2.8 million. It is a unique country still in touch with its native and ancient traditions. The populace lives essentially in two places: city and the steppes. NATO’s global partners include Mongolia.

Mongolian Culture and Exports

Mongolian culture is a rich melting pot of shamanism and

Mongolia is credited with inextricably linking Europe and Asia, which ushered in an era of frequent and extended contacts between East and West, for imports and exports. The current exchange rate is 1 U.S. dollar to 3,450 Mongolian tugriks.

Mongolia’s main export commodities include copper ore, coal, gold and cashmere/animal products. Due to the long, harsh winters, Mongolian Ladakhi goats produce the world’s highest quality cashmere wool. Cashmere makes up 40% of Mongolia’s non-mineral exports and Mongolia supplies 1/3rd of the world’s cashmere.

Ikh Nart Nature Reserve—Partner With Denver Zoo

One of the stops in the Delegation’s itinerary was at Mongolia’s Ikh Nart Nature Reserve, which is home to a variety of iconic species, many of them threatened with extinction. The Reserve was established in 1966 to protect a population of wild Argali sheep.

Partnering with the Denver Zoo allowed its Field Conservation Team to bring experience in wildlife conservation, grassland management, scientific research and community engagement to the Gobi Steppe. Now the Ikh Nart is a model protected area, with sustainable principles and programs that can be scaled to address critical areas of threatened species protection, rangeland management and community involvement.

Gers, Camels, Reindeer People, Golden Hunting Eagles, Horses and Horse Head Fiddle

Over half of the people in Mongolia live in gers, which are felt and canvas tents with latticed walls, the traditional homes of nomadic herdsmen. The ger is a symbol of home and kinship of family. There are no windows and only one, small door. A small, metal stove in the middle provides heat and is used for cooking. A ger may be taken down quickly, for easy transport to another lo-

The mystical Dukha people, also known at the Tsaatan Reindeer people, are found in the far North region of Mongolia, near the Russian border. They live a unique and unchanged way of life, herding and tending to their reindeer. Each day, the reindeer are milked and allowed to wander the forest (tiaga), returning at night for a lick of salt, to be bedded down with the herd. The Tsaatan people live in an ortz (teepee) and carve reindeer antlers into knife handles, keychains and other items, for sale.

Eagle hunters are known as Kazakh burkitshi, who use the revered golden eagle for hunting, on horseback. Eagle hunting is a tradition passed down through the generations. Every Fall, an annual Golden Eagle Festival is held in the Altai Mountains, which is a thrilling two-day event of the Kazakh nomads, held to celebrate the awesome skills of their magnificent hunting eagles. Proceeds from the Festival are used to promote conservation of the golden eagle and to preserve the traditional cultural heritage of Kazakh hunters.

The national animal of Mongolia is the Przewalski horse, also known as the Mongolian horse, or the Takh. Mongolians have traditionally grouped their horses into four categories: (1) horses used to shepherd sheep, (2) horses use to round-up the herd, (3) postal horses, used for military purposes, and (4) race horses. Mongolians are particularly proud of their race horses. The horses have short, strong necks and when galloping, their necks stretch straight out, making it easier to shoot a bow and arrow from the back of the horse, in battle or hunting, without hitting it.

The national musical instrument of Mongolia is the Morin Khuur, or horse head fiddle, which is a traditional, stringed instrument made up of a rectangular sound box with a long neck, surmounted by a carved horse’s head, below which are two tuning pegs, resembling ears. The horse head fiddle dates back to the 13th century and is part of the Mongolian cult of the horse. Legends surrounding its origin are based on the beloved horses and the Khuur can be made to sound like a horse neighing!

The Khuur is mainly played in sole fashion, but also accompanies dance, long (deep throat) songs, mythical tales, ceremonies and everyday tasks related to horses. The Khuur repertory has retained some tunes (tatlaga) specifically intended to tame animals/horses.

James Wagenlander, Honorary Consul of Mongolia and His Honor, Dolgorsuren Sumiyabazar, Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Elaborate interior of a nomadic Ger—no windows and only one small door.

Sir Donald Peterson, Honorary Consul of Sweden, riding a Bactrian camel in the Gobi Desert

13 Colorado Walks to End Alzheimer’s raise funds for research

Thousands of loved ones, caregivers and supporters of Coloradans living with Alzheimer’s will rally at 13 locations across the state this summer, sharing their experiences with this tragic disease and raising funds to find an elusive cure.

More than 76,000 Coloradans are among 6.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, the seventh-leading cause of death and the only leading disease without a prevention or cure.

“This disease annually kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined,” said Jeff Bird, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado. “It’s time we put an end to Alzheimer’s.”

The 13 Walks to End Alzheimer’s across the state are the primary source of funds for the Association in Colorado, supporting education, programs and services provided to families at no charge. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s largest non-profit funder of research to find a cure. Currently, it is funding 1,000 projects with over $320 million in 54 countries around the world.

The schedule of Colorado Walks to End Alzheimer’s is:

Aug. 26: Montrose and Sterling

Sept. 9: Fort Morgan and Steamboat Springs

Sept. 16: Denver and Pueblo

Sept. 23: Durango, Eagle and Fort Collins

Essential collaboration in the workplace and in romance

Sept. 30: Colorado Springs

Oct. 7: Boulder and Greeley

Oct. 14: Grand Junction

The 13 Colorado Walks to End Alzheimer’s have a collective fundraising goal of $2.3 million.

Edward Jones is national presenting sponsor of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. KMGH-TV (ABC) is the Colorado media sponsor.

To register, volunteer or make a donation to any of the 13 Colorado Walks to End Alzheimer’s, go to alz.org/co. For more information about programs and services provided at no charge, call the free 24/7 Alzheimer’s Association Helpline at 800-2723900.

Key facts about Alzheimer’s disease

76,000 Coloradans are among 6.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined

Since 2000, deaths from Alzheimer’s have increased 145%, while deaths from heart disease have declined 7%

Women make up two-thirds of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s – and two-thirds of the family caregivers

In Colorado alone, more than 160,000 family and friends are serving as unpaid caregivers, providing an estimated 186 million hours of support in 2022 valued at more than $4.4 billion.

Businesses thrive when collegial relationships are highly functional. Most CEOs value a healthy corporate culture where teammates get along and care about each other. Companies rely on collaboration and working together toward common goals. For companies to succeed, teams must be purposeful, intentional, stay on task to meet the achievable goals in the time frame allotted by the company’s leadership. This is also true for romantic attachments. Workplace or romantic partner goals are not met when there are uneven workloads, someone drops the ball, participation is one-sided, power-trips, and attention-seeking behaviors are present.

Many companies approve large budget expenditures to develop, improve or maintain relationships in the workplace because they know that this directly impacts turnover rates, productivity, and the overall success of the business. Some companies spend thousands of dollars on outside consultants to optimize relationships of coworkers.

Romantic relationships can benefit from the same kind of expertise. Although romantic and corporate relationships are very different, they share many common elements. Both in-

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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 KYLAH FAISON, Child,

And concerning LAUREN BRYANT and TREVOR FAISON, Respondents.

Linda Arnold, Reg. No. 16764

Office of the Arapahoe County

Attorney Attorney for the People Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 larnold@arapahoegov.com

Tel: 303-636-1882

Fax: 303-636-1889

Case No: 23JV30082

Division: 23

NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY COURT TRIAL AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT REGARDING RESPONDENT FATHER TREVOR FAISON

PLEASE

that

FAISON on SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. (MST) in Division 23 of the Arapahoe District Court. ** 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.

clude mutual respect, communication and problem-solving skills, spending time together, depending on one another, and, many times, both types of relationships are long-term and collaborative in nature.

Think about your romantic relationship as a collaboration.

Collaborations are built on working together to complete household chores, managing a budget, paying bills, planning vacations, raising children, setting goals and planning for the future. Couples might even collaborate sexually.

Healthy relationships require interdependence rather than independence, considering one another’s feelings, plans, personality characteristics, love languages, opinions, goals. motivations, passions, gifts, talents, and hope and dreams. Doing this takes careful collaboration and connectedness. Building this kind of collaborative becomes tricky and fraught with danger, high emotion, or negativity as it requires to trust and reliance on one another.

Romantic partners know that making a large purchase together like a home or a car requires high levels of trust. Constructing furniture or building something together takes

collaboration. To reach shared goals couples must be coordinated and fully and equally engaged. One person in the coupling cannot let the other down by not doing their part. Both people must be intentional and focused. Not surprisingly those who have a partner who is not reliable get angry and frustrated.

Collaborations can easily fall apart at home or at work when there is an uneven workload, and more responsibility is placed on one person. Collaborations are in danger when contributions are inconsistent or when there is a power imbalance. Collaborations will not work if there is not equal participation or engagement, or one person consistently drops the ball making more work for the other. The team at work or at home will certainly get frustrated and annoyed. There are many examples of undermining a collaborative at work or at home such as passive aggressive behaviors, not engaging in hard conversations, not setting realistic expectations or boundaries, codependency or enabling unreliability.

Whether at home or at work, it is essential to learn how collaborations can thrive or fail so all can enjoy a more harmonious and productive workplace or romantic relationship. For information about how to develop a healthy workplace or romantic relationships, contact joneen@myrelationshipcenter. org

If

Last Publication: September 14, 2023

Legal # 11074

accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code. /s/

INTERNATIONAL OVERDOSE

AWARENESS DAY

AUG. 31. A global event that aims to raise awareness of overdose and reduce the stigma of a drug-related death. Visit overdoseday.com

CENTENNIAL YMCA OLDER ADULTS PROGRAM

SEPT. 1, 3-5 p.m. “Party On The Porch.” Pizza, snacks, fruit, beverages, games, and drawing for local merchant gift cards. RSVP: centennial cog@ denverymca.org

PARIS STREET MARKET

SEPT. 2, OCT. 7 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Aspen Grove, 7301 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton. Open-Air, Vintage, Boutique, Artisan.

FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT THE 2023

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

SEPT. 7, 4 p.m. at Grist Brewing CO. at Commerce Center Circle, Highlands Ranch.

$30 fee includes beer & food. RSVP: Jodi Cornman at 303-703-3499 or jcornman@ anthemmenorycare.com Hosted by Highland Place, Willowbrook Place, Bloom Healthcare & Legacy Healthcare services. Alzheimer’s cases in Colo. to reach 92,000 by 2025.

CANCER LEAGUE OF COLORADO

OVER THE EDGE

SEPT. 7-9. Join in the fight against cancer by repelling down McGregor Square. Registration now open for 2023. www.cancerleague.org or Call 303-281-9864.

ARAPAHOE COUNTY FAMILY MOVIE

NIGHT AT THE FAIRGROUNDS

SEPT. 7 & SEPT. 14. Bring a picnic, blankets and lawn chairs, and enjoy a movie under the stars. Sept. 7 - “Back to the Future” and Sept. 14, “Maverick.” Pre-movie activities, giveaways, and life entertainment. Screenings in partnership with Arapahoe Libraries Tickets are $5 online/ $7 at the door. 2 & under free. Tickets at arapahoecountyeventcenter.com/ picturesontheplains

LITTLETON FIRST RESTAURANT

WEEK

SEPT. 8-17. Sponsored by Littleton Business Chamber. Restaurants will offer special menus, discounts or fun extras over 10 days. Visit www. littletonbusinesschamber.org Look for their advertisement on page 8 of the 8/31 Villager.

BENNET STAFF INVITES RESIDENTS

TO SCHEDULE OFFICE HOURS IN ARAPAHOE COUNTY

SEPT. 8, 12-1:30 p.m. Max Haynes, Denver Regional Director U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services ReStudy Rooms 1 & 4, 5430 S. Biscay Cir., Centennial. RSVP: Hannahmullen@bennet. senate.gov or call 303-455-7600.

FITTING A FARM FOR THE FUTURE75TH ANNIVERSAY

SEPT. 9, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 17 Mile House Farm Park, 8181 S. Parker Rd., Centennial. Registration required to tour inside of farmhouse. Visit arapahoegov.com/17milehouse Discover its agricultural & soil conservation story. See 1948 event photos, hands-on activities, 1941 dump truck & vintage tractors on display.

34TH ANNUAL FRIENDSHIP POWWOW

Denver Art Museum Martin Bldg. Sie Welcome Center. SAT., SEPT., 9 10-5 p.m. Native American dance competitions, hands on activities, food & vender booths, beadwork art making activities and local native artists. Fry bread & Indian tacos. Vendors showcasing jewelry, art, crafts, clothing, etc. Info. 720-8655000.

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

CANCER LEAGUE OF COLORADO DRINK FOR PINK CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

SEPT. 9-16. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. 16 teams double elimination. First Place wins a Custom Colorado

Joe’s Cornhole Set! 2 players per team. $80 per team. Luchador food truck. All entry fees supports Drink for Pink, a 501(c)3 organization in partnership with local researchers from Anschutz and the Cancer League of Colorado. Participants must be 21 or older. Sign up at HTTPS://DFPCORNHole. Eventbrite.com Event at Lone Tree Brewing Company, Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree.

MS. COLORADO SENIOR AMERICA -

QUEEN’S TEA

SUN, SEPT 10, 2 p.m. -5 p.m. At Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Course, Antero Ballroom. It will be a fun afternoon of sipping tea and tasting the delights of an assortment of finger sandwiches, canapés, appetizers, and desserts. You will be entertained by the Ms. Colorado Senior America Pageant Queen 2023 Joanie Ryan and club members including the dance group, The Bella Donna’s! Silent auction and Live auction! This is an annual fundraiser that should not be missed. For tickets contact Cyndy Oberdier at: 720-2173560 colosramerica.com

AUTHORS HALL OF FAME DINNER

SEPT. 11 at the Double Tree Hilton DTC. 12 New Inductees. For the list of all inductees, and tickets to attend the gala visit ColoradoAuthorsHallofFame.org

CHERRY CREEK REPUBLICAN

WOMEN TO MEET

SEPT. 12, 11 a.m. social time with meeting starting promptly at 11:30 a.m. at the Double Tree Hotel, I-25 and Orchard. Speaker - Derrick Wilburn. Reservations due by Sept. 5. Info: Karen Blilie at 303-667-8767.

SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER

WOMEN IN BUSINESS CONFERENCE

SEPT. 12 - Comedy Works South. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

A full day of empowerment, engagement, and actionable takeaways focused on equipping women with skills and knowledge to thrive in both professional and personal environments with five outstanding speakers. Tickets: info@ bestchamber.com or call 303-795-0142.

CHALK ART FESTIVAL

SAT., SEPT. 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at The Streets at SouthGlenn, 6851 S. Vine St. Watch local artists create sidewalk masterpieces using only chalk and their imaginations. Shopping, live music featuring Some Sweet Day, Family Activities, outdoor concert.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MULTIPLE

SCLEROSIS CENTER GALA

SAT., SEPT. 16, Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. Live Music, Auction, Dancing, Casino Gaming. “The Nacho Men” presented by 5 Star Talent & Entertainment. Tickets: MSCenter.org/ gala

ART ON THE GREEN ALL-COLORADO

ART FAIR

SEPT. 16-17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sponsored by the Curtis Center for the Arts and the City of Greenwood Village. Featuring dozens of artist booths, food trucks, live music and more at Greenwood Village’s Curtis Park. Info: www. aretonthegreencolorado.com

CITY OF AURORA WARD VI TOWN

HALL MEETING

SEPT. 20, Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club. Hosted by Council Member Franchise Bergan. Info: Call 303-739-7015 or visit AuroraGov.org/ TownMeetings

DOUGLAS COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HEROES GALA

SEPT. 21. Event to raise awareness and support to Douglas County first responders, Armed Forces members, veterans and the nonprofit

partner organizations that support them. Sterling Ranch Development Company is the presenting sponsor. Event at the historic Denver Botanic gardens Chatfield Farms (8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton. Info: https://www. dccf.org/events/2023-heroes- gala.html. Tickets 720-733-2656

PUBLIC HEARING FOR SOUTH

SUBURBAN 2024 BUDGET

SEPT. 27, OCT. 4 Provide input on projects and priorities. Meetings to be held in the Board Room at the Sports Complex (4810 E. County Line Rd., Littleton. Info: Call 303-798-5131. Mon.-Fri from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE POLICE

FOUNDATION CAR SHOW & SILENT

AUCTION

SEPT. 30, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Fundraiser at Cherry Hills Village City Hall- 2450 E. Quincy Ave. Unique cars on display. Winning Categories are: Best of Show, Best Antique, People’s Choice and Most Likely to be Pulled Over. Registration form and $50. display fee due by Sept. 15. New exciting Silent Auction this year! Live entertainment and refreshment vendor. No admission cost for spectators. Info: Mark Griffin 303-324-0965 or markgriffin@msn.com

UPLIFT GOLF TOURNAMENT

OCT. 2 at Cherry Creek Country Club. Get the scoop: coloradouplift.org/golf

RODEO ALL STAR RODEO

COMPETITION

OCT. 6-7. NEW Denver dates. Three rodeo competitions and a Friday night All-Star Concert.. Also the RAS Mutton Bustin’’ Sheep Stampede. Registration open. Tickets: rodeoallstar.com

UPLIFT GUILD FASHION SHOW & MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON

OCT. 20 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Columbine Country Club. Fashion show sponsored by local boutiques. Proceeds support students and staff by sponsoring new vans, hygiene products for kids in need, and more. Shop with local vendors. RSVP: Nicole at nwirwtz@coloradouplift.org

CITY OF CENTENNIAL SIP IN CENTENNIAL

OCT. 21, 1-5 p.m. Centennial Center Park, 13050 E. Peakview Ave. Combining Brew-N-Que and Whiskey Warmer - beer & liquor tastings, food trucks, yard games and live entertainment. Free to attend and open to all ages.

MENTAL HEALTH COLO. 40TH ANNUAL TRIBUTE FUNDRAISING

GALA

SAT., OCT. 28, 5:30 p.m. Formal attire. Denver Center for the Performing Arts Seawell Ballroom, 1350 Arap. St., Den. Email: ashaw@ mentalhealthcolorado.org

CHERRY CREEK SCHOOL DIRECTORS ELECTION

NOV. 7, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Three directors will be elected to serve 4-year terms in Director Districts A, B & C for CCSD No. 5. Eligible electors must reside in each District respectively for at least 12 months preceding the election and who are interested in serving on the school board may obtain a Board Candidates Packet for the Director District in which they reside, including a Nomination Petition from the District Designated Election Official (DEO) from Aug. 9-Sept. 1. Dealing to submit a petition is Fri., Sept 1, 4 p.m. Petitions: Sonja - 720-554-4373.

WHAT’S NEW?

The Englewood Block Party was held Aug. 26

Unfortunately, the large branded 12 x 12 tent was stolen from Access Printing on Mon., Aug. 28 around noon. Info: Contact Englewood Police Dept.

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for only $300, contact The Villager Newspaper at 303-773-8313