The City of Centennial is seeking candidates for roles on its diverse Boards, Commissions and Committees. Being part of a Centennial Board, Commission or Committee offers a unique opportunity to contribute to your community and provide valuable input to City Council on critical issues. Deadline for applications is 5 p.m. on February 17, 2025. Applications are invited for roles on the Audit Committee, Election Commission, Investment Committee, Open Space Advisory Board, Planning and Zoning Commission and Senior Commission based on current vacancies. New appointments for six
groups will be made in March 2025, with terms starting in April. To apply, residents must submit an online application form by 5 p.m. on February 17. The same form can be used for multiple vacancies, and once submitted, it remains valid throughout the year. Applicants selected for an interview will be notified via email.
Explore details, application requirement sand more at centennialco.gov/boardsand commissions. For inquiries, contact the City Clerk’s Office at Clovelace@centennialco. gov. Join us in shaping the future of Centennial!
offices
closed Monday, Jan. 20
observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.
Back In the Game
Getting back in the saddle after a serious health challenge. My saddle is a bit dusty from sitting in the barn, but it feels good to be riding (writing) again.
Just so you know, on Sunday evening Nov. 5, two days prior to the election, I was in my Lazy Boy recliner watching the 10:30 news and recap of the NFL football games when a disaster struck. My abdomen exploded and I was in nauseating pain. To make a very long story short, I struggled to the bedroom and flopped on the bed, telling my wife I was in trouble. Gerri immediately called 911. My next memory was having a fireman lift me off the bedroom floor where I had slip from the bed. My next memory was arriving at the Parker hospital emergency room. Next memory, the lights from a Xray to find that I had a ruptured aorta and two ruptured aneurisms. I was simply bleeding to death at a rapid rate. ( I was later to learn that this is called a triple AAA with a five-percent chance of survival.) Next memory was an ambulance ride to St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood flat on my back on a stretcher with a male attendant giving me a blood transfusion on the 40 mile stretch to the emergency room. Two surgeons
BY BOB SWEENEY PUBLISHER
were waiting to operate on me, saving my life. My next memory was awakening in the ICU section of the hospital and that I had survived the surgery. Sadly, I missed most of the election excitement, the week, a blur of being poked with needles, changing my dressings, and having vital signs checked every two hours, day and night. I met one of the surgeons who came to see me, and I thanked him for his skills. The team went up through my groin and put stents into my ruptured arteries. What skill and modern surgery techniques these young doctors possess. I was so fortunate to be near medical emergency services. Had I been on a plane, or up in the mountains, it might have been too late to save me. I also could have died in my recliner.
Following days in the hospital, I was then moved to Holly Creek Rehab for another 13 days. I sat in my room watching TV, resting, and worrying about my next adventure in the bathroom. It was very boring, and I would attempt transcendental meditation to pass the time of day. The staff at Holly Creek were attentive and took very good care of me, bringing a menu and letting me select what to eat. Then, and even now, I have lost my appetite and some weight.
One of the highlights of my
The center of our belief
There is a vast, and profound, difference between a Constitutionalist, those who believe in and study our Constitutional Republic, and those who believe that more government is the solution. The difference is neither republican nor democrat in origin. Both parties suffer the same misconception. And both contain Constitutionalists. We may differ in how to attain the Rule of Law (the Constitution) but agree that control is not the answer.
FDR’s progressive vision of American public policy. This explains much of the ambition of the early New Deal legislation that largely ignored the traditional limitations on congressional authority, such as the non-delegation (Chevron) doctrine and federalism.” - The Reinvention of the Bill of Rights – Jerome C. Foss (article follows)
That profound differentiation between individual freedom or government control, originated in the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson enumerates three inalienable rights: life, liberty, and ownership of property. This single concept is the foundation of our belief.
Constitutionalists believe one thing: that individual rights, liberty, and freedom spring from our Creator, not from any manmade government. Therefore, when leaders like FDR, Woodrow Wilson or Obama proclaim a government’s “right” and ability to bestow these inalienable rights upon the citizen, we object vehemently. This leftward path leads to control, not freedom.
“The War, no doubt, gave FDR’s elevation of the freedoms of the first ten amendments a rhetorical appeal, emphasizing a Bill-of-Rights Constitution rather than a Separation-of-Powers Constitution cleared the way for the sorts of policies implicit in
stay was being able to have Thanksgiving dinner with Gerri in the wing lunchroom where we were treated with a traditional meal. Later that day Freda Miklin, and husband Dr. Jerry Miklin, brought me mach appreciated, delicious real home-cooked Thanksgiving dinner.
Having a large family, I had visitors, and my daughters and sons-in-laws visited often and made sure that I was receiving stellar care. I turned my phone off for about a month, so I missed many calls. I think the spammers had nervous breakdowns not being able to peddle Medicare Part A & B with constant calls.
I’m back behind the computer and also doing some limited driving. Very thankful that I have suffered no cognitive damage and am slowly regaining my strength. I could go into infinite detail on this journey, which was my very first, and almost my last, visit to an emergency room.
During those lonely recovery days in rehab, I reviewed many memories of my interesting life. So many experiences in the newspaper profession.
I will end this column relating one of those experiences that I recalled that has significance this week with the death of President Jimmy Carter. In 1979, while publishing the Craig Daily Press, I was invited back to the White House with a dozen other western newspaper folks to meet with President
Creator). He suggested that government could steal from Peter to pay Paul, because the government had to provide the “rights” enumerated in the amendments. He started us down the slippery slope of greater government control over the individual. His intend may have been noble (debatable), but the outcome is a disaster. We are living under excessive government control today. The suffering is palpable. And unnecessary.
Carter in the cabinet room to discuss western state issues. One issue was the “Sage Brush Rebellion” an effort by ranchers to sell much of the public lands in the western states.
Most of the two-hour session was spent with Hank Greenspun, Jewish publisher of the Las Vegas Sun, castigating the president over selling some jet fighter planes to Egypt. Carter was very influential in bringing some peace to the region and Greenspun added some excitement to the meeting.
As we were leaving, President Carter stood at the door and thanked each one of us for coming. As I shook his hand, and he spotted my Lion’s Club pin me told about being a member of the Plains Lion’s Club. He was small in physical stature but big in his life with huge support for non-profit groups and especially “Habitat for Humanity” housing projects. He received a Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian services lasting over a span of 40 years. He is being honored this week, laying in state at the Capitol with funeral services at the National Cathedral. He would like to know… along with others, that Hellen Keller is buried in the basement of the Cathedral. Helen Keller was blind and deaf and became a famous speaker and author. In 1925 she spoke to The International Lions Convention and called the Lions, her “Knights of The Blind.” Jimmy was a great Lion in life.
eralism, and the enumeration of powers were all intended to limit the authority of the federal government and to motivate it to check itself—therein lies the protection of liberty. The first ten amendments were intended and understood to contribute to the institutional structure of the three branches of government and to clarify certain necessary principles of republican government under a written constitution.”
The reason is simple, if rights are granted by a government, or another person, they can be taken away by that same entity. If originated by a higher being, our Creator, then these rights are not subject to the whims of a government body or other men.
“Few at the time seemed to notice that this reading was being pushed to help Americans feel better about increases in federal authority.”
FDR subverted the intent of the first ten amendments, the Bill of Rights, to suggest that government could and should provide the individual with these “rights.”
From this misunderstanding springs the notion that a government can reduce the liberty and freedom of one person to bestow these “rights” on others. Progressive taxation (charging high wage earners a larger percent), subsidies for EV’s, student loan forgiveness, and welfare checks, are but a few perversions of the original intent.
FDR subverted the original intent of the Declaration (inalienable rights come from our
“Not only does FDR offer the Bill of Rights as the reason why Americans have enjoyed freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and freedom of press, he also insists it is the reason we have “the free schools, the free churches, the labor unions, the religious and educational and civic organizations of all kinds which, without the guarantee of the Bill of Rights, could never have existed.”
This is why Constitutionalists object to notions of Nationalism, Tribalism, mob rule, and of course the ultimate mob: “the majority.” This is why we object to “democracy” as the defining term of our government. Democracy empowers the majority (50% +1) to rule the minority, the individual.
The Constitution defines a limited government strictly controlled by the Rule of Law (The Constitution), whose sole purpose is to protect the individual. The difference is profound.
“Is there something dangerous about Americans thinking that the government has the authority to act in a multitude of undefined ways so long as well-defined individual rights are not violated?”
“Separation of powers, fed-
Therefore, when a politician offers a solution that imposes new laws, he is offering to place you into bondage. When a politician suggests a minor increase in taxation, he is setting you up to pay for your own bondage. When a politician authorizes spending more than the government takes through taxes, that politician is placing you and future generations into bondage.
To willingly place ourselves into bondage is not rational. Nor is it necessary.
The Rule of Law is clearly defined in our Constitution. Our republic is sustained and passed on to future generations through individual adherence to original law. And when the politician, bureaucrat or agency gets out of line, it’s our responsibility to put them back in place. That’s how we keep a Republic. It’s up to each one of us.
Jay Davidson is founder and CEO of a commercial bank. He is a student of the Austrian School of Economics and a dedicated capitalist. He believes there is a direct connection between individual right and responsibility, our Constitution, capitalism, and the intent of our Creator.
PUBLISHER &
PUBLISHER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR Susan Sweeney Lanam 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com
EDITORIAL COLUMNIST Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
Historic MAGA excitement mounting for Colorado’s own Inaugural Ball
Celebrating ALL Republican victories Monday, January 20, 6 PM – Marriott DTC
Early reservations are encouraged for an evening of fun and camaraderie when The Lincoln Club of Colorado presents another Inaugural Ball in Colorado! (RSVP Deadline - January 12) Seasoned media host, award-winning filmmaker, international speaker and founder of Parents United America, Deborah Flora, will be mistress of ceremonies. She also serves on numerous boards and is senior vice president of public policy of ACE Scholarships.
for 10 at $1,500. Premier Seating is $250. per person or $2,500. for a table of 10. Sponsorship levels are: MAGA Signature Sponsor - $15,000., America First$10,000., Drill Baby Drill - $5,000. and Fight, Fight, Fight - $2,500. For more information: Presedential BallCO@gmail.com
The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. at Marriott DTC, 4900 S. Syracuse Street in Southeast Denver with a cash bar and cocktail specials, a three-course dinner, complimentary champagne toast, a live feed from Washington, D.C. Inaugural Balls, dancing to the 19-piece Mile High Big Band, free event parking and more! Attire is formal/black tie optional. General admission is $150. per person or table
“Every
The steering committee includes: Drew Bolin, Kathleen Chandler, Caroline Cornell, Lynne Cottrell, Michelle Haedrich, Scottie Taylor Iverson, Edie Marks, Brett Moore, Antonette Smith and Carol Waller.
The Lincoln Club of Colorado is Colorado’s oldest Republican organization. Based on the humanitarian principles of President Abraham Lincoln and founded in 1918, the club’s mission has always been to promote the educational and social programs of the Republican Party and to support the election of Republican candidates. (www.lincolnclub.org)
four years we are lucky to celebrate American democracy. The Lincoln Club is honored to
co-host the Colorado Inaugural Ball with so many who care about our great state and nation.” - Drew Bolin
Le Bal de Ballet 2025 honorees celebrate at Brown Palace
Holiday Brunch with Debutantes, Young Men of Distinction and their mothers
ver Ballet Guild. Guests were also treated to a performance by the acclaimed a cappella group from the University of Colorado, cleverly named the CU Buffoons, who sang holiday favorites.
The annual Holiday Brunch event chaired by Abby Benton, Tara Rismani and Annika Young is just one of a yearlong series of events leading to a grand Le Bal de Ballet in June 2025 presented by Den-
First Lady Melania Trump and 45th President Donald J. Trump at the 2017 Freedom Ball (Washington D.C. Convention Centre). Vice Presidentelect JD Vance of Ohio and wife Usha will be joining them this year to celebrate the 47th historical presidential election. Photo by Jim Watson/ATP/Getty Images
Deborah Flora will be the evening’s emcee
The Lincoln Club of Colorado President Drew Bolin
Right to left: Debutante Reese Mohler with Stacy McCallum and her daughter Debutante Paige McCallum, Reese’s paternal grandmother Arlene Mohler Johnson, who co-founded Young Men of Distinction and whose father Seth Mohler was in the first class (1988), and Reese’s mom Annie Mohler
Photo credit: Wells Photography
Hudson LeFevre and his mother Abbie LeFevre
Dr. Cory Dunnick and her daughter Charlotte Goldstein
Ghislaine Bruner and her son Michael Bruner
BY FREDA MIKLIN
AG Phil Weiser rakes in over $150,000 one day after announcing 2026 run for governor
On January 2, state Attorney General Phil Weiser formally announced he is a candidate for Colorado governor in 2026 (Gov. Jared Polis is term limited and cannot run again). On January 3, his campaign heralded a one-day fundraising total of $157,657 from 1,051 individual donors.
Weiser is running for governor because, “Over 30 years ago, I came to Colorado for a job interview—and was hooked. Here in Colorado, we root for each other to succeed, we treasure our outdoors, and we bring an independent, innovative spirit to how we live our lives…As your Attorney General, I’ve committed from day one to show up in every county, to listen to you, and to get results. As Governor, I will bring that same commitment to make life better for all Coloradans.”
He continued, “We must make it more affordable for Coloradans to own or rent a home, protect our freedoms, keep our communities safe, protect our land, air, and water, and create opportunities for our next generation and their future.”
Among his accomplishments as attorney general for the past six years,
Weiser cited:
• Stopping the Kroger-Albertson’s merger, “that would drive up grocery prices”
• Collecting almost $800 million that will go to treatment and recovery programs in Colorado, from drug companies that were responsible for the opioid crisis;
• Recovering over $400 million for consumers;
• Supporting law enforcement with recruiting and training of police
officers and sheriffs’ deputies;
• “Pushing for and defending gun safety measures and prosecuting cartels and crime rings;”
• “Taking on polluters, challenging those who harm our water, and defending clean air protections.”
• Challenging “corporate landlords that illegally colluded to raise rents:”
• Getting back “junk fees” deceptively charged to tenants.
In response to the opening-day financial haul, Weiser said, “I’m humbled by the outpouring of support I’ve received from people across Colorado, and grateful to have the wisdom and guidance of so many exceptional leaders involved in our campaign. I’m looking forward to continuing my travels throughout the state in the coming months to hear directly from the people of Colorado about how we can confront our state’s most pressing issues, together.”
Prior to being elected Colorado Attorney General, Weiser clerked for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, served in the U.S. Department of Justice under two different presidents, and was Dean of the Uni-
versity of Colorado Law School, while teaching constitutional and antitrust law.
Weiser is the son and grandson of Holocaust survivors. His mother was born in the Buchenwald concentration camp the day before his grandmother was liberated by American soldiers from the U.S. Army.
Former Colorado Governor Roy Romer is Weiser’s honorary campaign chair. Campaign co-chairs are Ed Perlmutter, former Member of Congress, Jeni Arndt, Mayor of Fort Collins, Omar Montgomery, former candidate for mayor of Aurora, and Meg Porfido, former chief of staff and chief legal counsel to Gov. Romer.
The campaign steering committee includes current and former Colorado elected officials Polly Baca, Bernie Buescher, Lois Court, Lisa Cutter, Dafna Michaelson Jenet, Brandon Shaffer, Marc Snyder, and Rachel Zenzinger.
Others who have been mentioned as potential gubernatorial candidates in 2026, but have not announced an intention to run, include U. S. Rep. Joe Neguse, Secretary of State Jena Griswold, and former U.S. Senator Ken Salazar. All are Democrats, as is Weiser.
GV expects citywide revenues to drop in 2025
In its adopted Annual Operating & Capital Improvement Budget for 2025, passed by the city council in November, Greenwood Village reported, “Despite notable increases in investment earnings and miscellaneous revenues, the (2025) forecast represents a decrease of $2.7 million or 3.8% (in total revenues) when compared to the prior year. In late 2023, the City began to observe a sudden and unexpected flattening of sales and use tax…An ongoing exposure facing the City is its dependency on sales and use tax collections, making the organization especially reliant upon, and susceptible to patterns in consumer and commercial spending…As a regional employment center, the City’s tax collections depend heavily on business spending, as well as that of the local workforce.”
GV has long relied upon its dai-
ly influx of office workers, who, pre-pandemic, accounted for fully 75% of the city’s then-weekday population of 60,000, compared to its permanent residents, numbering just over 15,000. Given the ongoing and significant decline in the value and occupancy rate of office buildings in GV and the DTC, post-Covid, it is not difficult to imagine how a related reduction in office workers coming into the city daily might impact sales and use tax revenues on everything from office equipment and software to restaurants and personal service businesses.
Well known for excellent financial management, the City has budgeted its expenditures for 2025 at 15.8% below that of its 2024 amended budget. Although its operating costs will increase 1% in 2025, its capital improvement budget for 2025 is $13.6 million less
than it was in 2024, allowing GV to maintain its strong financial footing during a period of potentially declining revenues.
According to the adopted 2025 budget, GV will make a one-time transfer of $8.3 million from its general fund to its capital projects fund this year to support future capital improvements.
At the end of 2025, the general fund will be kept at its ending 2024 balance of $54.7 million, while the capital projects fund will be reduced 21% from $8.1 to $6.4 million.
A sampling of the major capital improvement projects in GV’s 2025 budget, some of which are not complete and are planned to be funded over multiple years, include:
On January 3, Business Den reported that Belleview Tower at 7887 E. Belleview Avenue had been sold to Real Capital Solutions (RCS), who reports paying $20 million for the 12-story, 201,670-square-foot building that last changed hands five years ago, when Endeavor Real Estate Group of Austin, Texas purchased the building for $40.1 million, making RCS’s acquisition price
50% less than what the property fetched in December 2019. Marcel Arsenault is chairman and CEO of RCS, which he founded over 40 years ago. It describes itself as a successful, “highly entrepreneurial real estate company that… has purchased and managed more than 395 real estate assets, totaling approximately $5.1 billion in acquisition value (which) currently has $2.4 billion in assets under management.”
Arsenault is quoted as describing
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser
Belleview Tower lobby
Photo by Freda Miklin
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found on Centennial’s website on the Residents/Have-Your-Say-Centennial/Northwood-Ravin-Streetsat-SouthGlenn page.
Many of those who commented questioned whether the available parking was adequate for the number and types of units. City staff responded that, “The parking for this project will conform with the approved Master Development Plan which requires one space per bedroom.” That answer was not satisfactory to several people who pointed out that couples frequently occupy one-bedroom apartments but have two cars.
Affordability was also raised, to which the city responded that the units will be market rate, because Centennial “does not have a requirement that a developer provide a certain number of affordable units.”
There were requests for a children’s playground and a dog park. There were comments about traffic, adequate water and the availability of the public schools.
Streets at SouthGlenn residential project to break ground this year
Developer Northwood Ravin of Charlotte, NC hopes to begin construction of its 400-residential apartment development, consisting of two multi-family buildings, landscaped green space, and a public park, at the south end of the Streets at SouthGlenn in Centennial, this summer, with the first phase expected to be completed and open for occupancy in 2027.
The two buildings will be five stories each and contain a total
of 63 studios,170 one-bedrooms, 138 two-bedrooms, and 29 3-bedroom apartments, for all types of residents, from singles to families.
The design will provide, “ample natural light, extended balconies, and a strong emphasis on indoor/ outdoor living.” The project will include a 503-car parking garage, an unspecified amount of underground parking, and 12 spaces of surface parking.
Northwood Ravin’s local partners
Latest building to sell at a deep discount
Continued from page 6
Belleview Tower as, “a premier office property in a high-demand location,” and reports that it is 75% leased. There are 87 tenants listed in the lobby directory, including Berkley Bank, Colorado Society of CPAs, Edward Jones, Fidelity Home Mortgage, John Forhan, Attorney at Law, Healthcare Financial Data Services, Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., and MorningStar Senior Living.
Three months ago, we reported that RCS had teamed up with Koelbel & Company to acquire Metropoint I and II at 4600-4610 S. Ulster Street in the DTC for a cool 73% discount from
what the prior owner had paid for them in 2006. Those two buildings, combined, contain 433,698 square feet. Space in Metropoint I is currently being marketed at $22/square foot, slightly under the average rental rate in the area.
This transaction is the latest in an ongoing string of sales of DTC and Greenwood Village office buildings at deep discounts from their earlier values, most but not all from the years preceding the pandemic. While prior owners are experiencing significant losses on their investments, these transactions should provide opportunities for potential tenants to get into updated buildings at great locations at reduced rents.
for this project are Kephart - Architect, Norris Design - Planning/ Landscape Architecture, and Harris Kocher Smith – Civil Engineer, all located in Denver.
The City of Centennial held a virtual neighborhood input meeting in September and October, during which interested parties could post their questions online, where responses from city staff and project personnel can be viewed. 180 comments were posted, and can be
To the question on water, Daniel Braswell, associate planner at Norris Design responded, “The project has received a will-serve letter from Denver Water, confirming their ability to serve the proposed development.”
To the question about schools, Michael Gradis, planning manager for the City, said, “Littleton Public Schools will serve the site, and our initial conversations with the district indicate they are looking forward to welcoming additional students.”
The website for the project says that, as of November 2024, the City “received a development pre-submittal for the project.” It also says, “If certain criteria are met, a Community Meeting may be required prior to the submittal of a site plan.”
Stay tuned.
Belleview Tower
Photo by Freda Miklin
Northwood Ravin will build at the site of the old Sears store.
Business Banking Built Around A Personal Relationship
We’re changing business banking throughout the neighborhood.
At Berkley Bank, we provide your business with a range of banking services and deliver them with a uniquely personalized touch. We’re building relationships throughout the neighborhood by providing individual attention and responsiveness. Our Team is the same every time you visit.
We know that the business landscape is constantly evolving, and Berkley Bank is there for you with innovative banking solutions to help your business thrive in this dynamic environment. It’s a style of banking that most people rarely encounter these days. It’s worked for the Berkley family since 1924 and we think you’ll love it!
Our goal is to be a bank you can rely on and to also be a long-term partner in your business journey. Let us help you build a solid financial foundation for sustained success.
A Timeless Legacy in Central City
BY DAVID GIES, AUTHOR
P
On December 31, 1834, Peter Gottesleben was born in Rhine Province, Germany. Today, 190 years later, his legacy endures in the Teller House lobby in Central City, Colorado, where an impressive eight-foot George A. Jones Walnut Parlor Clock stands. The clock, inscribed with the name “Hense Gottesleben,” carries a rich historical and romantic story.
The “Hense” refers to Peter’s brother-in-law. After immigrating to Quincy, Illinois, and living there for two years, Peter and his wife, Elizabeth Hense, made the journey to Denver in 1857, traveling by ox team. Upon arrival, they opened a jewelry store on Larimer Street, near the original May Company building.
The May Company was constructed by Frank Kirchhof, a fellow German immigrant who became an influential figure in Denver’s early development.
Kirchhof built landmark structures such as the Albany and Oxford Hotels and founded the Kirchhof Lumber Company, amassing considerable wealth.
While there is no direct evidence that Gottesleben and
bronzes from France, Germany, Prussia, and England, and was renowned in New York City for its quality.
What makes the clock at the Teller House particularly special is the engraving on its pendulum, which identifies both George A. Jones as the manufacturer and Hense Gottesleben as the retailer. The pendulum’s mercury component is another fascinating feature. Mercury was used in clocks of this period to improve timekeeping accuracy by compensating for temperature-induced changes in the pendulum’s length. As temperature rises and the pendulum rod expands, the mercury in the bob expands as well, adjusting the clock’s center of mass to maintain consistent timekeeping.
Today, the clock continues to tick into 2025, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Eric Chinn, Central City Opera’s Director of Historic Properties, who winds it regularly, and the volunteers from Denver Chapter 21 of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors. Special thanks go to Chapter 21’s Randy Schneider, Charles Daldry, Mike Korn, Jane and Steve Stap, and David Gies, and others who help maintain and adjust historic clocks,
personally, they likely crossed paths through their shared church and growing business networks in Denver. Their connection is further underscored by the purchase of the walnut parlor clock, which was likely a centerpiece in Kirchhof’s opulent home. The clock was bought by the Kirchhof family in the 1860s from Hense Gottesleben’s jewelry store on Larimer.
Manufactured by the George A. Jones & Company in New York during the early 1860s, this clock is one of the finest of its era. In a time when most clocks were imported from England, owning a precisionmade American clock was a symbol of status. The George A. Jones & Company also imported the finest clocks and
including the tower clocks at two high schools in Denver. The Chapter also keeps a list of clock repair professionals, available on their website for anyone in need of repairs (https://nawcc21.com/business-directory/). See the tab “Clock and Watch Service” at https://nawcc21.com.
As we welcome 2025, we honor pioneers like Peter Gottesleben and Frank Kirchhof, along with generations of entrepreneurs who contributed to the growth of Colorado. The valuable clock, donated to the Teller House by Frank Kirchhof’s daughter, Bernadine Kirchhof, in the 1930s, stands proudly in the first-floor lobby. Its inscription commemorates the long journey to Denver by ox team— a tribute to the GotteslebenHense family’s 1857 migration. Happy New Year 2025!
Award-Winning
Actress Debra Messing to speak at JEWISHcolorado Signature Event; Arlene and Barry Hirschfeld to be honored with Lifetime Achievement Award
JEWISHcolorado is excited to present its Signature Event featuring activist and Emmy-winning actress Debra Messing on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, in the Bluebird Ballroom at the Colorado Convention Center from 6-9 PM.
At the event, JEWISHcolorado will honor Arlene and Barry Hirschfeld with the Lifetime Achievement Award for more than 50 years of service to the Jewish community.
Since 1902 when Arlene’s family came to Denver and 1903 when Barry’s family arrived, the two families have been actively involved in the Denver business, civic, and Jewish communities. Arlene’s father, Barry’s grandfather and father each served as Board Chairs of the Allied Jewish Federation of Colorado, the precursor organization to JEWISHcolorado.
Barry served on the Allied Jewish Federation Board and Endowment Committee.
He currently serves on the Boards of National Jewish Health, Boy Scouts, and Visit Denver where he is a Lifetime Trustee and a former Board Chair. He has also served as Board Chair of the Denver Art Museum, a trustee of the Boettcher Foundation, and one of the founders of the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD).
Barry has received many awards including the Mizel Museum Community Cultural Enrichment Award, National Philanthropy Day in Colorado Lifetime Achievement Award, and Martin Luther King Social Responsibility Award. In 2004, Barry was inducted into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame.
Arlene Hirschfeld has been involved with Jewish Federation for decades, serving as
women’s campaign chair and in 1999 as the third woman to be Chair of the Board.
The same year, she was recognized with the prestigious Golda Award and has been a Lion of Judah for more than 40 years.
Arlene was inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame in 2006, served as the first woman Board Chair of the Rose Community Foundation, and was the President of the Junior League of Denver.
In 2004, at a celebration at Ellis Island, Arlene and Barry each received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
“The Hirschfeld Family legacy of building up this community through hard work, generous philanthropic gifts, and hours upon hours of their time and expertise, have provided the building blocks for creating a vibrant Jewish community,” said JEWISH-
Human Rights Ac-
best known for her Emmy & SAG Award-winning role as Grace Adler on NBC’s Emmy Award-winning comedy series Will & Grace. Messing has been honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Women in Film’s Lucy Award, The Gracie Allen Award, the American Comedy Award, among 50 more nominations. In the wake of the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7th, Messing has used her platform to be one of the strongest, clearest, and most informed voices advocating for Israel, the end of hate and misinformation, and the release of the remaining hostages. In December 2023, she traveled to Israel to bear witness to the massacre and meet with hostage families and survivors. She spoke to 300,000 people in Washington at the March for Israel rally last year. Since then, Messing has been speaking to audiences across the country. She is Executive Producer of the documentary, Primal Fear, about the explosion of antisemitism since October 7th.
General Admission tickets are $180, $80 of which is a tax-deductible donation, and tickets for those under 30 years old or for those who are Jewish Agency professionals are $118, $18 of which is a tax-deductible donation. Details and registration at https:// events.idonate.com/2025aneveningwithdeb ramessing. Net proceeds from the evening benefit JEWISHcolorado’s Jewish Student Connection Program, supporting high school students’ Jewish identity and helping them combat antisemitism. For more on table and event sponsorship opportunities or honoree tributes, please contact Jill Katchen at 303.316.6464 or jkatchen@jewishcolorado.org.
About JEWISHcolorado
JEWISHcolorado convenes, connects, invests, and protects Jewish life in Colorado, Israel, and around the world. JEWISHcolorado, part of the Jewish Federations of North America, strives to create a vibrant, secure, connected, and inclusive Jewish community. We stand together in shared purpose guided by our Jewish values, connected to the people of Israel, and continuously working on behalf of the Jewish community through outreach, advocacy, programming, and grantmaking. For more information, please visit jewishcolorado.org.
colorado President & CEO Renée Rockford. The celebratory evening will feature Debra Messing, an Emmy Award-winning actress, Producer, and
tivist,
Barry and Arlene Hirschfeld
Debra Messing
The Decades-Old Training Gap in the Gym No One
For decades, gym culture has revolved around one common pursuit: progress. Whether it’s adding more plates to the bar, running a faster mile, or achieving that picture-perfect physique, gym-goers are united by their desire to improve. But amidst this relentless drive for self-improvement, a decades-old gap in strength training continues to grow—a gap that is rife for the taking from innovators and those who are future-minded.
Is Talking About
The Illusion of Progress
The Data Desert in Training
The heart of this gap lies in the absence of precise data and implementing what science deems the best training method. Technology has already infiltrated our everyday lives and is further making its way into fitness. Fitness trackers and smartwatches have revolutionized how we monitor heart rate, calories burned, and even sleep quality. Yet, when it comes to understanding the mechanics of our actual movements in the gym, these tools are insufficient.
Consider this: How many reps did you perform at the full range of motion versus partial when you work out? Was your tempo consistent across every set? Did your muscles engage as they were supposed to, or did compensatory patterns sneak in? These questions should transform the way we train, and if we are being honest with ourselves, they’re rarely asked because most of us simply don’t have access to the tools to measure these metrics.
Without granular data, the concept of “progress” is often subjective. Feeling stronger or noticing physical changes can be significant indicators, but they fail to tell the whole story. Many gym-goers unknowingly plateau or, worse, train with poor form, reinforcing bad habits and increasing the risk of injury. Despite hours of effort, the lack of detailed feedback means that the potential for improvement is often left untapped.
Why Hasn’t This Changed?
This training gap persists for a few reasons. First, traditional gym equipment hasn’t evolved to include advanced tracking capabilities. Dumbbells, barbells, and machines are largely the same as they were decades ago. While reliable and durable, they don’t provide insights into the quality of movement.
Second, fitness culture has largely emphasized external milestones—like heavier weights or faster times—over internal metrics. Without a shift in focus, the demand for tools that provide in-depth data hasn’t reached critical mass.
Finally, the technology needed to fill this gap has been challenging to develop. Capturing detailed, millisecond-by-millisecond data about muscle movements in real-time requires a combination of sophisticated sensors, AI, and user-friendly interfaces. Until recently, such advancements were mostly
confined to elite athletic training facilities.
The Future of Training
The good news is that we’re on the cusp of a revolution. New technologies are emerging that aim to map every muscle movement with unparalleled precision. These innovations promise to provide actionable insights that were once reserved for professional athletes and physical therapists. Imagine knowing exactly how your body moves, where inefficiencies lie, and how to correct them—all in real-time.
With tools like these, the way we train could fundamentally change. Workouts would no longer be guided solely by intuition or appearance but by data-backed strategies tailored to individual needs. Progress wouldn’t just be measured in pounds or inches but in the quality and efficiency of every movement.
Closing the Gap
The decades-old training gap isn’t just a problem—it’s an opportunity. By addressing the lack of precise movement data, we can unlock new levels of performance, prevent injuries, and make every minute in the gym truly count. The future of fitness lies in bridging this gap, turning the gym from a place of trial-and-error into a hub of scientific precision.
As these technologies become more accessible, they’ll empower gym-goers to train smarter, not just harder. The question is no longer whether the gap will close, but how soon we’ll embrace the tools that will make it happen.
It’s time to talk about the training gap—and more importantly, to close it.
“Building muscle isn’t just about strength—it’s vital to staying healthy, improving mobility, and preventing injury as you age. Our cutting-edge technology will help you build muscle in just one session per week. It’s not too good to be true. Book a free evaluation today, and we’ll prove it to you!”
Brenda Sheldon
It is with great sadness that we inform you that Brenda Sheldon died on January 2 at the age of 79. Brenda is survived by her sister Linda Haley; children Audrey (Craig) Chapel, Dan (Cady) Sheldon and David (Lynn Hutchinson) Sheldon; grandchildren, Ben, Jonah, Jack, Lily and Sadie; sisterin-law Vivian Sheldon Epstein; niece Elizabeth (Steve) Smith and their children Sam and Haley. She was preceded in death by her parents Dorothy and Bud Levitt and her husband Norman Sheldon. Brenda was born in Dallas, Texas to Dorothy Keith Levitt and Isadore “Bud” Levitt. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Sacramento, California where she and her sister Linda Levitt Haley grew up and had a wonderful childhood. She attended the University of Colorado, Boulder. There she met her future husband, Norman. They were happily married for 56 years until his death in 2021. She was an amazing mom to their three children and a wonderful Nana to her five grandchildren, who made her proud every day. She loved playing bridge, the ukulele, and volunteering at Temple Sinai amongst other worthy causes. These all brought her immense pride, joy and a whole lot of fun! Brenda was diagnosed with ALS, a degenerative neurological disease nearly two years ago. She felt very fortunate to live in a state where Medical Aid in Dying is legal. She left us proudly on her terms with humor, grace and dignity.
Welcome to the Top of Norway! INTERESTINGPLACES
The last stop on our Havila cruise up the Norwegian coast was Kirkenes, one of the northernmost towns in the world. We disembarked from the ship, well north of the Arctic Circle, under perpetual daylight. The ship then sailed south, following a similar route to Bergen, where the cruise would begin once again.
Kirkenes held three adventures for us.
First, in Kirkenes, was the Andersgrotta bomb shelter, a remnant of World War II. shelter during the more than 300 air attacks by the Soviet Union against the German Nazis.
Kirkenes was a strategically important city occupied by the Nazis from 1940 to 1945. The movie Narvik, on Netflix, provides an amazing look at WWII in Norway. Norwegians were caught in the crossfire as the Soviets bombarded the Nazis with bombs.
The bomb shelter, built into a stone hill, contained passages to house residents during these air attacks. The passages were dark and dreary, but they kept many Norwegians alive until the end of the war.
Next, we visited the Norway-Russia border, just east of Kirkenes. It’s a low-key and lightly guarded border,
quite different from what it was during the Cold War. The Russian guards kindly bring back Norwegian reindeer that cross the frozen river marking the border.
Now, those living near the border can cross visa-free but must stay within 30 kilometers of the border.
The Russian city of Murmansk is 200 km from the border. Although the border is currently a bit more restrictive due to the Russia-Ukraine war, it will hopefully one day be easy to cross.
Our final stop was a night at the Snow Hotel in Kirkenes. The hotel is covered with a thick, flannel-like white tarp that reflects the sun and keeps it frozen during the summer. It also has a strong air conditioning system.
constant but chilly 23 degrees F. We slept in a super-warm sleeping bag, on a mattress, and on a slab of ice. Surprisingly, we were very warm, but we wore balaclavas to protect our heads and necks from the cold.
Before bed, the restaurant served us a delicious dinner overlooking a beautiful fjord. We carried our sleeping bags into the hotel, squirmed in, zipped them up, and settled down for a long winter’s nap.Before breakfast, we happily exited our icebox, heated up in an ever-present Scandinavian sauna, and then walked down to the fiord for a ‘refreshing’ (I could think of more descriptive words) cold plunge in the fiord.
Walking into the actual hotel is like entering a giant freezer. There is a bar area with ice stools and tables, decorated with ice sculptures. Down the hallway are about a dozen hotel rooms, illuminated by an eerie purple light. The rooms accommodate anywhere from 2 to
The hotel’s temperature was a
Cold plunges are the latest health and wellness hack, with many science-backed benefits. From a 180-degree sauna to ice water in a fjord connected to the Barents Sea and Arctic Ocean, it represents the ultimate cold plunge, quite different from the sauna and cold shower at a local health club.
It was a fun 24-hour transition and adventure from disembarking the cruise ship to catching a flight to Helsinki, the next stop on our Scandinavian adventure!
Economic Forecast Breakfast 2025
The Chamber's Economic Forecast Breakfast has proven to be informative, thought-provoking and entertaining in the early morning hours. Gain unique insight from a distinguished panel of speakers as they discuss and explore economic topics that shape our businesses, communities, state and country for the coming year. Additionally, get a sneak peak of 2026 Sesquisemiquincentennial: America 250 - Colorado 150
Engage with local leaders and public officials This dynamic event is open to members and guests
Ellen pointing to Russia from Kirkenes, Norway
Bundled up for a night in the snow hotel
The bar at the snow hotel
How to Help a Hoarding Parent
Dear Savvy Senior,
My dad has always been a pack rat, but since mom died a few years ago he’s become more of a hoarder. The clutter in his house has gotten out of control and I don’t know what to do. Any suggestions?
Distraught in Centerville
Dear Distraught, Unfortunately, hoarding or clutter addiction is a problem that’s become increasingly common in the U.S. It effects approximately 6 percent of Americans age 65 or older. The problem can range anywhere from moderate messiness to hoarding so severe it may be related to a mental health disorder like obsessive-compulsive disorder. Here’s what you should know, along with some tips and resources that can help you help your dad.
Why People Hoard
The reasons most people hoard is because they have an extreme sentimental at-
Dear Readers,
A GREAT NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION: I WILL QUIT STALLING AND MAKE MY WILL
Some admirable New Year’s resolutions include: improve self, enjoy life more, get fit, manage debt, more family time, quit smoking, help others, lose weight, get a better job and save money.
One commendable New Year’s resolution is to stop procrastinating in having your estate plan documents prepared, but, unfortunately, many people never take action. You know you should have a Will and other estate plan documents, but you keep stalling. No one likes to think about dying or about someone else raising their children. But without an estate plan in place, you risk dying “intestate” – without a Will that could guide your loved ones, avoid family feuds and potentially save your family thousands of dollars.
Putting a basic estate plan in place is not as complicated or expensive as many people fear. It is the attorney who does the work and will guide you in identifying the questions you need to answer so a plan can be developed. Over the course of our lifetimes, we accumulate tangible assets, such as vehicles, homes, retirement accounts and furniture that have a physical form. If we are lucky, we have gained some other intangible assets like wisdom, perspec-
tachment to their possessions, or they believe they might need their items at a later date. Hoarding can also be a sign that an older person is depressed, anxious or showing early symptoms of dementia.
Common problems for seniors who live in excessive clutter are tripping, falling and breaking a bone; overlooking bills and missing medications that are hidden in the clutter; suffering from the environmental effects of mold, mildew and dust, and even living among insects and rodents.
What to Do
To help you gauge your dad’s problem, the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD) offers a free “Clutter Hoarding Scale” that you can download at ChallengingDisorganization.org
tive, patience, integrity, a strong reputation, and more. As we age, it’s important to consider what life might be like for those we leave behind. Of course we want to leave memories of love, appreciation, and solid values, but we need to be mindful of how we will leave behind the physical assets collected over our lifetimes. The important questions to ask are “How can we best do that?” and “Is there a way to make it easier for those who will inherit from us?”.
What is an Estate?
An estate is a person’s net worth in the eyes of the law. It typically refers to what is left in your name and in your possession after you die. That can mean your home, autos, boats, farms, ranches, equipment, bank accounts, personal property, art-work, collections, land and any smaller assets you have in your name. It could also include any receivable accounts, rights, patent revenue and licenses you might have on file, loan bal-
If you find that your dad has a moderate cluttering problem, there are a number of things you can do to help. Start by having a talk with him, expressing your concern for his health and safety, and offering your assistance to help him declutter.
If he takes you up on it, most professional organizers recommend decluttering in small steps. Take one room at a time or even a portion of a room at a time. This will help prevent your dad from getting overwhelmed.
Before you start, designate three piles or boxes for your dad’s stuff – one pile is for items he wants to keepand-put-away, another is the donate pile and the last is the throwaway pile.
You and your dad will need to determine which pile his things belong in as you work. If he struggles with sentimen-
ances if someone owes you, or even your social media accounts. If you have provided loans to adult children, their repayment obligation is part of your estate. Any outstanding work or business revenue, such as stock options, future bonuses and profit distributions, are also part of your estate.
Do you have an estate plan? Do you want to pass to your assets via a will or through a trust? Wills are subject to probate; trusts are not. An estate plan attorney will help you learn about the advantages and disadvantages of either option.
If you have the foresight to make a Will, you will have created a document during your lifetime that sets out instructions on how to divide your estate. In addition, you will have peace of mind regarding the documents needed to protect yourself and your family after passing. A Will allows you to appoint a Personal Representative, to handle your affairs after your death. It is important to consult with estate planning professionals, including an attorney and an accountant, to help you set up the right planning mechanisms and avoid tax-related surprises.
What are the four key medical/estate plan documents you need now?
Many of my clients have asked what are the critical documents needed, particular-
tal items that he doesn’t use, suggest he keep only one item for memory sake and donate the rest to family members who will use them.
You will also need to help him set up a system for organizing the kept items and new possessions.
Find Help
If you need some help with the decluttering and organizing, consider hiring a professional organizer who can come to your dad’s home to help you prioritize, organize and remove the clutter.
The National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO.net) and the ICD (ChallengingDisorganization.org) both offer directories on their websites to help you locate a professional in your area.
If your dad has a bigger, more serious hoarding problem (if his daily functioning is impaired, or if he is having financial difficulties, health problems, or other issues) you’ll need to seek professional help.
Talk therapy and/or anti-
ly 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 pass-
depressants can help address control issues, anxiety, depression, and other feelings that may underline hoarding tendencies, and make it easier for him to confront his disorder.
To locate help, contact Helping Elders Live Productively (H.E.L.P.). This is a free education, counseling, and referral resource that helps older adults and their families who are experiencing hoarding, by connecting them with legal services, mental health assistance and support groups. Call 310-533-1996 for a referral or visit Help4srs. org/support-services-for-seniors-who-hoard
You can also find professional help through the International OCD Foundation, which provides a hoarding center on their website at Hoarding.iocdf.org
And to get help with challenging cleanup jobs, the biggest provider is Steri-Clean, Inc. (see Hoarders.com or call 800-462-7337), a hoarding cleanup company that has franchises located throughout the country.
ing. The Power of Attorney documents allow you to designate those agents whom you authorize to help you on your behalf during your lifetime, and the Will/Trust documents allow you to nominate others to help with your estate after your passing, as well as to identify the beneficiaries and the distributions to them, to accomplish your estate planning goals.
Selected information in this column has been taken with permission by Continuing Legal Education in Colorado, Inc., from the Colorado Senior Law Handbook, 2023 Edition (Chapter 34: Simplify Your Life: How to Manage Your Estate and Life--and Benefit You and Your Heirs, Marianne Blackwell, J.D.), which is a copyrighted publication and may be accessed and downloaded for free at: www.cobar.org/For-the-Public/Senior-Law-Handbook.
Irony marks Denver’s return to NFL playoffs
Are you into irony?
That’s what is up next for Denver after the Broncos’ shellacking of Kansas City’s backups last Sunday.
Remember the 2018 National Football League draft?
Denver had the fifth overall pick that year, and up at the University of Wyoming, a high risk-high reward quarterback was available.
Peyton Manning had retired, so the Broncos were in need of “the next franchise quarterback.”
But John Elway, the Broncos’ decision-maker at the time, wasn’t sure about that guy, despite his 6-foot-5, 237-pound stature and big arm. Concerned about interceptions, John picked defensive end Bradley Chubb instead.
for Chubb (who was traded a few seasons later) instead of Allen, whom the Bills gladly chose, here’s how Denver and Buffalo have fared:
The Broncos had 10 starting quarterbacks between 2018 and 2023. During his rookie season in 2018, Buffalo went with Allen 11 times, and three other guys in the other five, games. But since 2019 the Bills have had Allen under center for every game until last Sunday, when he, like KC’s Patrick Mahomes, had the day off.
games in 2024—10 victories and seven defeats (though the 16-14 loss in Kansas City on Nov. 10 should have been a victory).
He finished his rookie season with more touchdown passes at home (19) than any first-year player ever—surpassing (ironically) Russell Wilson, who set the record in 2012 with 17 (tied by Houston’s C. J Stroud in 2023).
Nix set another record in Sunday’s walk in the park, completing 89.7 percent of his throws (26 of 29), which surpassed Peyton Manning’s single-game club record of 89.3%.
“That guy” was Josh Allen, who this season led the Buffalo Bills to a 13-3 record (before sitting out Sunday’s meaningless loss) and is a leading contender for the 2024 NFL Most Valuable Player Award.
And that’s where the irony comes in.
The Broncos, who suffered through six straight losing seasons after passing on Allen, are finally back in the NFL playoffs, and their Wild Card opponent is none other than Allen and those Bills.
Since that April day in 2018 when the Broncos went
Denver had six straight losing seasons and went 38-61 between 2018 and 2023. Buffalo, meanwhile, had 16 losing seasons in 19, starting with 2000, before drafting Allen. They went 6-10 in 2018, but since Allen’s first season have posted six straight double-digit winning seasons, with an overall regular-season record of 72-28 in that span, including 2024.
Before qualifying for this post-season, the Broncos set the record for most seasons missing the playoffs after winning the Super Bowl (eight).
They will go into Buffalo this Sunday with a quarterback who appears to be a worthy alternative to Allen, at last.
Bo Nix was Denver’s starter under center in all 17
For the season, Nix passed for 3,454 yards and 25 touchdowns, with 12 interceptions. In 16 games, Allen this season passed for 3,7311 yards and 28 TDs, and was intercepted only six times.
Another small irony: When the Broncos passed on Josh Allen, they signed Case Keenum to a multi-year contract. He started all 16 games in a 6-10 season, then was replaced the next year. Four years later (2022), Keenum was Allen’s backup in Buffalo.
The weather forecast for Buffalo on January 12 isn’t as bleak as it could be this time of year: high temperature of 30 with the chance of snowfall around 25%.
The Broncos’ chances of winning in Buffalo this weekend aren’t as grim as you might think, either, based on the last time they played the Bills there.
Unlike this season in Kansas City, when a last-second kick that would have won the game was blocked, on Nov. 13, 2023—three days off the same date a year later—Wil Lutz made a 36-yard field goal as time expired to earn Denver a 24-22 victory.
Sunday’s game was the first time the Chiefs were shut out since Andy Reid became their head coach in 2013.
Shrug that off if you will, what with Mahomes, Travis Kelce and a dozen other regulars watching. But if I were a Chiefs fan, I’d be concerned about one thing: What if the guys who played Sunday have to play in the playoffs because some stars get knocked out?
The Chiefs get this weekend off, but another irony looms.
If Nix and Denver upset Allen and Buffalo, Kansas City will face the Broncos again.
Denny Dressman’s 17th book, a collaboration with Kansas City artist Anthony High titled Black Baseball’s Heyday – Capturing An Era in Art and Words, will be published next spring. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@ comcast.net.
money sense
Four considerations as you save for college
There are several savings options as you and your future college student prepare for the costs of college.
When you add up the costs of raising a child, education looms large. “Four years at a public in-state college is projected to cost $47,152 today,”1 says Richard Polimeni, head of Education Savings Programs at Merrill. At a private college, that total could hit nearly $169,0001, and at the most elite schools you could spend far more. “You can expect tuition costs to rise by about five percent each year,” he adds. That’s why it’s important to start saving as early as you can. “Ideally, you want your savings to pay for a larger portion of the costs, so you or your child can borrow less.”
“Start by setting up automatic monthly contributions to an account earmarked for college,” Polimeni suggests. Then, as freshman year approaches, you can look for ways to fill in the gaps. Contribution limits, tax benefits, and other factors differ across the four major college savings options, including a 529 savings plan, a 529 prepaid tuition plan, a Coverdell Education Savings Account, and UTMA/UGMA custodial accounts created under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act/Uniform Transfers to Minors Act. Consider a conversation with your advisor about which options best align to your family’s overall financial plan. Make the most of tax benefits
“There are various federal income tax provisions that not only encourage people to set aside funds to pay for higher education costs but could also help offset some of those expenses,” says the Chief Investment Office (“CIO”) National Wealth Strategies Team for Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank. Those include tax credits for higher education expenses and a deduction for student loan interest. What’s more, you can withdraw funds from individual retirement accounts
to cover eligible college costs without incurring additional taxes for early withdrawals, but it’s better to leave those funds invested for your long-term goals, the CIO notes. For more on these tax rules, ask your advisor for the CIO’s Wealth Strategy Report: Tax Provisions Related to Higher Education Expenses, June 2023.
Final stretch? Fill in the gaps… On average, families cover only 54% of college costs with savings and the parents’ and student’s income. 2 Another 26% comes from scholarships and grants, with loans covering 18% (friends and relatives kick in the rest). 2 That means that in the final run-up to college, you may want to look into one or more of these options:
Apply for federal student aid: Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which you can do beginning October 1 of your child’s senior year in high school. “Everyone should apply for federal student loans and grants, even if you think you won’t qualify,” says Polimeni. Your aid eligibility doesn’t hinge on your income alone, although it is a significant factor. Financial aid awards, which often take the form of student loans, take into account the size of your family (are you sending more than one child to college?), the cost of the college and your child’s year in school. If necessary, students should consider using federal direct subsidized loans before other types of loans as they generally have lower interest rates and more favorable repayment terms.
Borrow against your investments: A Loan Management Account® (LMA® account) from Bank of America is a line of credit that allows you to use the
Investing involves risk. There is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities.
value of your eligible investments as collateral. “You can borrow against your account without disrupting your longterm investment plan, and your interest rate will be lower than most other borrowing options,” says Patrick Bitter, a credit and banking product executive at Bank of America. Plus, you can get access to a loan quickly. “When you’re borrowing against your investments, you can set that up within a couple of days,” says Bitter. The LMA also offers flexibility; it can be used as needed, with no defined repayment time frame. Just keep in mind that if the value of your investments drops sharply, you may have to repay the loan, move more money into your account or sell some of your stocks or bonds, Bitter adds.
“Your financial advisor can help you evaluate all of these options and determine which might make the most sense for you,” says Polimeni. One more tip: “Involve your child in the process,” he adds. “It’s a great way to kickstart their financial education and it will help them understand the financial impact of considering one school over another.”
For more information, contact Merrill Financial Advisor Andrew Neal in the Greenwood Village, CO, office at 303.689.8043 or andrew.neal@ml.com.
1 College Board, “Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2022,” October 2022. Estimates based on average published tuition and fees for 2022–2023 and 5% annual increases.
2 Sallie Mae and Ipsos, “How America Pays for College 2022,” August 2022.
CHERRY CREEK REPUBLICAN WOMEN GENERAL MEETING & LUNCHEON
TUESDAY, JAN. 14, 11:00
a.m., Double Tree by Hilton DTC. Free Parking. Cost $36. RSVP: Deadline Tue., Jan. 7. Speaker: Dustin Zvonek, “How do Colorado Republicans Rebuild?” Must RSVP. www. cherrycreekrepublicanwomen.org. Questions: 303-475-9148.
SAVE THE DATE:
MONDAY, JAN. 20, 6-11:00
p.m. 2025 Colorado Inaugural Ball to celebrate Trump’s Victory, presented by the Lincoln Club of Colorado. Marriott DTC, 4900 S. Syracuse, Denver. Dinner and cash bar. Dancing to 22 piece Mile High Big Band, complementary
champagne toast, live feed from the Washington DC Inaugural Ball. Formal attire or Black Tie. Looking for sponsors and volunteers. Call Lynne at 303-550-5115 or lcottrell@aol.com
ENGLEWOOD CHAMBER RIBBON CUTTING
WED., JAN. 22, 4-6 p.m. Ribbon cutting at 4:30 p.m. Inaugurate two new murals by artists Nate Padavick & Julie Libel on the side of Frame DeArt, 3065 S. Broadway, Englewood.RSVP: lindsey@myenglewoodchamber. org
ARLENE & BARRY HIRSCHFELD TO BE HONORED
TUESDAY, JAN. 28, 6-8:00 p.m. JEWISH Colorado presents a Signature Event featuring Emmy winning actress Debra Messing at the Bluebird Ballroom at Colorado Convention Center.
Hirschfelds to be honored with Lifetime Achievement Award for more than 50 years of service to the Jewish community. RSVP: 303-316-6464 or jkatchen@ jewishcolorado.org
CYBERSECURITY IN DENVER SOUTH
FEB. 6, 7:30-9a.m. Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree. Panel discussion on how cyber criminals across our networks, take advantage of our systems, etc. There were 9,500 cyberattacks the first half of 20224 plus those not reported. RSVP: 303-792-9447 or Kellie@ denver-south.com
AURORA HISTORY MUSEUM PRESENTS NEW COMMUNITY STORY EXHIBIT
NOW - FEB. 16, 2025. A rich tapestry of community stories brought to life at Community Gallery of the Aurora History
Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway. Created in collaboration with the city of Aurora, Poet Laureate, Ahj a Fox. The poetry on display was selected from over 100 entries by local artists, highlighting the Aurora Community. Aurora Museum.org
WHAT’S NEW?ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE SENIOR LIVING EVENTS
Upscale dining, engaging events and activities, indoor pool, pet friendly. Call 720-684-5913 to schedule a tour and enjoy lunch on the Village. Located at 133801 E. Yale Ave., Aurora.
MS. COLORADO SENIOR AMERICA - CALL FOR CONTESTANTS
Ms. Colorado Senior America Pageant is taking applications for the 31st pageant on APRIL 26,
2025 If you are a lady 60 years or better, this is your opportunity to get out and do something for you in 2025!!! Not just a “one and done” pageant, we are involved with year round activities and make a difference in our communities. This is the “Age of Elegance!” For more information - website: ColoSrAmerica.com, FB - Ms Colorado Senior America Pageant or call René Green, Pageant Administrator at 720384-6249.
DENVER LIONS CLUB MEETINGS
Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 12 noon at the American Legion Hall, I-25 & Yale. Interested in joining? Call Bob, 720-313-9741.
ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS
Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:00 p/m. At Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway,Englewood. Info: Gail 720-377-7682.
Classified advertising
2025 Volkswagen Taos is salsa hot
The Volkswagen Taos has “Cornflower Blue” bright paint and the name reflects some New Mexico heritage. Volkswagen is one of the largest car manufacturers in the world and that is reflected in this vehicle.
The 1.5L turbo engine is made in Mexico, the transmission in the United States, and some Canadian parts to finish off the final assembly in Mexico.
This is a wellequipped fourdoor sedan loaded with features, heated side-mirrors, front seat and steering
wheel. UBS charging stations on front and back seat areas.
Linked to the efficient turbo engine is an 8-speed 4Motion drive that produces strong acceleration and high mileage of
33 mpg on the open roads.
The cabin is spacious, and the all-wheel suspension system gives a smooth ride over Colorado’s weather worn highways. One of the coolest heat
and cool features is “Climatronic” dual color control. Just move a finger across the lighted screen to increase or decrease heating or cooling… a great system. Another finger tough increases the fan speed, fast and easy control.
Safety features galore including rear traffic and pedestrian warnings; intelligent crash response system to prevent forward objects, lane assist staying in lanes.
The vehicle rides on 18” alloy wheels with all-season tires.
Features rain sensing wipers along
with rear wipers and heated fold in mirrors. The Taos will get you over Raton Pass in a blizzard. Roof rails for skis or snowboards and LED lights with auto controls.
This is an easy driving car, gas powered, and good rear seat space for passengers. The trunk is adequate with manual operation.
This vehicle comes with a 4-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, whichever comes first. The complete package has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $31,475.
Well-equipped for Colorado weather this is a competitive all-around well-equipped vehicle for work or play.
