The 11th Annual Village Toy Drive wraps up
The 11th Annual
The Village Toy Drive sponsored by First American State Bank and Gruber Commercial Real Estate benefitting Volunteers of America Colorado that literally wrapped up on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at First American State Bank that has been the sponsor of this toy drive under the helm of Michelle Gruber, vice president of First American State Bank.
Volunteers of America staff, First American Bank employees, patrons, West Middle school teachers, students, volunteers and village residents gathered to wrap the last several hundred gifts of the over 2,000 toys collected for this year’s toy drive, while noshing on delicious pizza and food from Zane’s bistro.
Toys were accepted throughout the year from the over 18 drop off locations in Metro Denver and also from various events held during the past few months.
Volunteers of America will distribute these gifts to children from 0-18 years of age.
Devyn Stroud-Schneider, 8th grade language/ arts teacher at West Elementary, 8th graders Michael Jumaan, Giada Scarpelli, Jessica Ritsick, Salem Wallinger, and 8th grade teacher, Maria Mango
L to R: Volunteers of America Event Specialist, Lynn Hubert, Michael James, VOA Senior Consultant, VOA Senior Graphic Designer, Kyle Jones, Jess Nix, VOA Manager of City Harvest, Jim Nix, VOA Senior Director of Volunteer Services, First American State Bank Vice President , Michelle Gruber, organizer of the 11th Annual Village Toy Drive with Faustine Curry, VOA Vice President of Marketing Advancements and front, Gerry Rasel, VOA Director of Major Gifts
First American State Bank VP’s, Zack McFarland and Ed Brady
VIce President, Michelle Gruber, Chairman of the Board, Jay Davidson and wife Kristina Davidson
ABOVE: Sharon Gelt, volunteer, Sara Wald, First American State Bank VP and controller, and Volunteer, Kim Monson
ABOVE: Dave Korn, senior VP First American State Bank and Scott Yeoman, president First American State Bank
Photos by Sharon Sweeney-Barbillon
Discover new passions, explore intriguing topics, and build connections with fellow community members through Classes for the Curious in Our Community, Co-Chaired by Herzl and Hazel Melmed. This dynamic new educational series is launching this January at BMH-BJ. Whether you’re looking to dive deep into subjects you’ve always wondered about or gain practical, fun skills, these interactive classes provide an engaging and enriching experience for all ages.
Starting in January, this pilot series offers an exciting selection of classes that will allow participants to learn, socialize, and enjoy light refreshments over three consecutive Thursdays:
January 9th, 16th, and 23rd, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. Each evening will feature two 45-minute classes, with a social break between the sessions to enjoy coffee, dessert, and thoughtful conversations with fellow learners.
The January Series will cover the following topics:
• Israel: A Comprehensive Overview
• Exploring Judaism: Traditions, Beliefs, and Practices
• Healthy Habits for a Better Life
• Israeli Dancing: Fun, Movement, and Culture
This new initiative is designed to make learning an enjoyable and social experience. It offers a perfect
opportunity to connect with your community while expanding your knowledge in areas of personal and cultural interest. Each series will provide a mix of educational content, practical takeaways, and an inviting atmosphere for open dialogue and networking.
Registration Information:
Dates: Thursdays, January 9th, 16th, and 23rd, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Format: First Class (7:00-7:45 PM), Refreshments Break (7:45-8PM), Second Class (8:00-8:45 PM)
Cost: $36 for all three weeks
Sign up: Visit www.bmhbj.org to register today or call the Office at (303) 3884203 to reserve your spot!
If you have questions, please contact our office at (303) 388-4203 or visit our website!
Hang Onto Your Hat in 2025
The holiday season has arrived in full glory with football gifts galore. How nice to see the Heisman Trophy returning to Colorado after 30 years. Travis Hunter is an incredible player and deserved the lofty honor. I was fortunate to catch the award ceremony and was impressed by his humility and gratitude to his parents, teammates and Coach Prime. He showed depth of character, astounding football talent and was awarded Scholastic All American award. What a lucky franchise that gets Travis as a draft.
BY BOB SWEENEY PUBLISHER
I watched President Trump’s hourlong press conference and he seemed more mellow and conciliatory just a few weeks away from his presidency. He is going to hit the ground at full speed and we can expect plenty of fireworks.
Closing the border will happen on his first day in office. Closing it will be
the easy part. Deporting millions of illegal immigrants will be difficult. I have a few suggestions that might help the process. Offer the newcomers a retainer of cash, along with a plane ticket. Let’s just say $1000 in cash for each person. They return home with something that might ease their pain.
For all the younger men and women offer military service in all branches of the military. Set up recruitment stations in every city where opportunities would open for immediate government housing, language skills, military skills in mechanics, aviation, and clerical opportunities. See the world in the navy along and nursing school opportunities. Serve in the military four years and receive full citizenship. Families of recruits could stay in the United States during and after the service requirements. Some immigrants served in World War II and received full citizenship. This would
provide opportunities galore and instill love of country into these migrants from around the world.
This of course is only a small part of a very large challenge. I would predict that harsher measures will occur, and violence and discontent will reign in many sanctuary cities.
It will be my prediction that the wars will end swiftly. Ukraine will concede some wheat pastures with a promise by Russia to hold free elections in the captured areas.
I think Hamas will release the few hostages that are still alive.
There will be some kind of truce in Gaza, but the human death toll and destruction will require a total new city. Trump will improve relationships with China almost immediately.
There is also the unforeseen of anything happening like more assassination attempts on business and political leaders. There will be many challenges in the new year, but better times are ahead.
PUBLISHER
Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR Susan Sweeney Lanam 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com
LEGALS Becky Osterwald legal@villagerpublishing.com
NEWS EDITOR Gerri Sweeney 303-773-8313 gerri@villagerpublishing.com
GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER Freda Miklin fmiklin.villager@gmail.com 303-489-4900
REPORTER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
FASHION & LIFESTYLE Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com
DESIGN/PRODUCTION MANAGER Tom McTighe production@villagerpublishing.com
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Susan Lanam — 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com
Sharon Sweeney — 303-503-1388 cogambler@mac.com
Gerri Sweeney — 720-313-9751 gerri@villagerpublishing.com Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS Gerri 303-773-8313
EDITORIAL COLUMNIST Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com
follow FREDA
BY FREDA MIKLIN
Recent member of Aurora City Council has advice for fellow Republicans
After becoming a principal at 76 Group, a boutique public affairs consulting firm with offices in Denver, Washington D.C., California, and Texas, serving clients in government, politics, and business, Dustin Zvonek resigned from his at-large seat on the Aurora City Council, effective October 31.
He had served three years of the four-year term to which he was elected in November 2021, explaining that the move was in the best interests of his family that includes four children, aged one to 16. Before joining 76 group, Zvonek was president and CEO of Young Americans Bank for a year. Prior to that, he operated his own consulting practice.
On December 4, Zvonek, who ran Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman’s local office during the time Coffman served as a Member of Congress between 2009 and 2018, addressed the Arapahoe County Republican Breakfast Club at their regular meeting at Maggiano’s DTC, where he talked about the state of the Republican Party nationally and in Colorado.
Zvonek told the group that President-elect Donald Trump had changed the GOP nationally, creating “a generational shift that allowed Trump to win the popular vote, something the Republicans haven’t done in a very long time.” (The last Republican president to win the popular vote was George W. Bush in 2004).
He continued, “The Republican party that I first got involved in…was the party of Reagan…We used to say, we don’t care about the person, we care about the principles, like fiscal responsibility, and you had to be a defense hawk. In 2006, I worked for (former U.S. Rep.) Tom Tancredo. We used to have Fox News on every TV and I remember polls that showed the popularity of the Iraq War was 90+% amongst Republicans. You can’t find many of them who’d admit that they supported it, now...The Republican Party of today is a populist party,
it’s a nationalist party, it’s a more pragmatic party.”
Zvonek told his audience of 100 that candidates’ principles were more important than electability then, but that has all changed now. In 2010, he said, the national debt was seen as “the biggest threat to the future of our country.” Today, “You don’t hear either party talk about the national debt. They just keep running it up,” he said.
He went on, “We were not winning national elections, with those principles. We were so focused on those, and shrinking the size of government, that we did not connect with people. That changed in 2015 when the dude came down the escalator and completely turned politics on its head.”
Like other traditional members of the GOP, Zvonek acknowledged he was certain Trump could not win in 2016, because, “He’d supported the Clintons. He’d been a Democrat most of his adult life. He didn’t hold many conservative values.” He continued, “But he had the ability to connect with people in the middle part of our country in a way that Republican candidates hadn’t in my lifetime, other than Reagan.”
Moving to 2024, Zvonek pointed to Trump’s wins in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, pointing out, “The Republican Party of today is the party of working class Americans… President-elect Trump won non-college-educated voters by double digits. That’s a dramatic shift over 10 years… Young men voted overwhelmingly for Trump…Reagan conservatives are now a minority faction within the majority party. Today’s Republican party resembles Midwest Democrats in the 1990s. We’re more isolationist than we were in the Reagan-Bush years. We’re not as open to free trade.”
Zvonek predicted a “battle for the soul of the Democratic Party,” after losing the 2024 election. Focusing on the current battleground states, he expects
that Georgia, currently a swing state, will soon be blue, like Colorado has become, and Pennsylvania, also currently a swing state, will turn red, similar to what has happened in Ohio.
“Colorado is different,” he said. He pointed to earlier years when, “There were so many Republicans in elected offices in Arapahoe County—every county commissioner, state legislators, all of them--I don’t remember a Democrat who was elected county-wide.” Today, he acknowledged that Democrats hold virtually every countywide elected office in Arapahoe County, except one seat out of five on the Board of County Commissioners. In the general assembly, one GOP member’s district, HD56, contains a sliver of Arapahoe County.
Colorado governor in 2026, when current Gov. Jared Polis will be term-limited, Zvonek said, “I believe that the Democratic Party could nominate whoever they want and that person will win because partisan politics has become so blindly tribal that people know today who they’re going to vote for in 2026, regardless of the candidates...The way for us to chip back is to run for local offices, to find our subset of issues that connect and resonate with Colorado voters. We need to show them that conservatives and Republicans can govern responsibly and effectively; that we can make their lives better.”
Looking toward the future, he said, “We have to find our path back. What are the issues?” Zvonek pointed to crime, the high cost of living, and regulation as things that “are not what Colorado voters want,” adding, “I want to see my kids grow up here and raise their families here. I don’t want our state to become unaffordable, a state where there isn’t opportunity.”
The biggest problem for the GOP in Colorado, Zvonek explained, is “We can’t replicate the President Trump model because it doesn’t work for Colorado…States with a higher-educated work force tend to vote more Democratic.”
Colorado has the second highest percentage of college-educated voters in the United States. Massachusetts, with over 200 colleges, universities, and post-secondary institutions, including Harvard, MIT, Tufts, Boston University, and Brandeis, is number one.
Pointing to the upcoming race for
State-sponsored retirement savings plan is available to nearly one million workers
The Colorado SecureSavings Plan (CSS), which has been operating for nearly two years, has, as current customers, approximately 68,500 workers in our state, who have together amassed $94 million in financial assets saved for retirement, so far.
The source of the plan is a state law, SB19-173, passed five years ago, to provide a simple way for self-employed Coloradans and those who work for employers that don’t offer a qualified retirement plan, to put aside a portion of their earnings for retirement. Sponsors of the bill were all Democrats who passed it with virtually no support from their colleagues on the other side of the aisle.
Workers who choose to use CSS place an amount of money they choose, from each paycheck, into an investment pool for retirement. The program leans toward the use of a
Roth IRA because money in a Roth has already been subject to income tax and, under federal rules, growth from interest and appreciation in that type of account is tax free when withdrawn later for use in retirement.
Investments in CSS, while not insured by any agency of government, are overseen with strict standards by the Colorado Secure Savings Board, which is part of the state Department of the Treasury. If an employee changes employers, the account moves with him or her, seamlessly.
Employers who have been in business for at least two years, have five or more employees, and don’t offer a qualified retirement plan are legally required to offer CSS to their employees. Workers are under no obligation to participate in the program. It is only an option that is designed to be simple and generally secure. The
program is open to anyone aged 18 or older whose employment is based in Colorado, even if the employee works remotely while living in another state.
Contributions by employees who choose to utilize CSS are made via payroll deductions facilitated by their employers, who pay nothing to make the program available to workers.
The idea for CSS came from the discovery that, “Prior to 2023, more than 40% of Colorado’s private-sector workforce did not have access to a retirement savings plan at work—nearly 940,000 workers. Colorado SecureSavings was created to meet this urgent need.”
According to the law that created the program, as of 2019:
It can be done, he believes. Just 10 years ago, Zvonek explained, Colorado was purple. Democrats firmly held Denver and Boulder Counties. Republicans firmly held El Paso and Douglas Counties. Those canceled each other out. Republicans had the rural area, while Democrats had “Pueblo and some other areas.” Statewide races were determined by whoever won Arapahoe and Jefferson Counties, which were both purple. That is not true anymore. Both are blue, and Douglas County is not as strongly Republican. Congressional District Four Republican U.S. Rep.-elect Lauren Boebert won Douglas County by less than one point. In the 2022 election for governor, Republican Heidi Ganahl beat Gov. Jared Polis by less than one point in Douglas County.
Zvonek said, “Meanwhile, it’s not getting any closer in Boulder. Republicans are still losing, 70-30, and in Denver, it’s 80-20.” He sees GOP gains in Adams County and Pueblo, though. Trump lost Adams County to Vice-President Harris, but by only nine points. He beat Harris in Adams County by four points.
The overall challenge is that today’s Republican Party does best with blue-collar, less educated voters, so it is going to have to find a different way to appeal to Coloradans.
• Nearly half of all U.S. families had no retirement assets.
• Middle-class, working-age U.S. families with income at the 50th percentile, had an average of $5,000 saved in retirement accounts.
• Only about 40% of African-American families and 25% of Hispanic families had any retirement savings.
• In Colorado, almost half of workers aged 25 to 39 did not have access to a retirement plan at work.
• Minority workers of all ages were disproportionately affected; 49% of African-American workers and 56% of Hispanic workers lacked access to a retirement plan at work.
• Workers were 15 times more likely to save for retirement if they had access to a payroll deduction savings plan through their job. For further information, CSS can be reached by email at client services@coloradosecuresavings.com, or by calling 844-692-1073.
Dustin Zvonek
Photo by Freda Miklin
Friends of Nursing Christmas Luncheon at Eddie V’s in Greenwood Village
Gradishars share the influence of nursing in their lives
Members and guests of Friends of Nursing (FON) celebrated Nurses Making the Difference at the nonprofit organization’s annual Christmas Luncheon. Eddie V’s never fails to amaze in presentation and palate pleasing dishes, garnering accolades for a sumptuous, gourmet meal. In addition to lunch, the multi-faceted event featured the Old Fashioned Christmas Shoppe of treasures to purchase and a Silent Auction with all proceeds going to nursing scholarships to be awarded in Spring of 2025.
After lunch, attendees moved to lounge seating. Popular Emcee Rick Crandall of broadcasting fame (and now executive director of the Colorado Freedom Memorial) introduced the program of musical performances. Elegant, refined vocalist Christie Conover has performed many lead roles with various opera companies, works with the Ecklund Opera Company at CU-Boulder and was Miss Montana in 2007. She was accompanied by pianist and vocal coach Beth Nielsen who has a passion for opera, art, song and musical theater. She has served on many facul- ties and holds a master’s and doctor- al degree in keyboard collaboration from
the University of Southern Colorado. Speakers Randy and Beth Gradishar shared the influence of nursing on their lives talking about their early years, their careers and their lives together. Beth was an RN for 35 years, most of those years working in surgery or main operating rooms. She majored in social work with a minor in English at UND – Grand Rapids, North Dakota. Upon graduation she moved to Denver and enrolled at CU Health Sciences Center where she earned her bachelor’s in nursing. She retired eight years ago, but says nurses never really “retire.” They are always happy to give advice and offer referrals.
ABOVE: Representing some of the nursing schools: Amy Barton (CU Anschutz Medical Campus), Cathy Witt (Regis University), Tammie Huddle (Colorado Christian University), Jenny Allert (Metropolitan State University-Denver)
RIGHT: FON Treasurer Teri Carlson, Past Board Member Suzanne Bufton, PresidentElect Devona Troutman, Financial Manager
MacKenzy Adams, Web
Master Mandy Wallace and FON President
Melanie Wallace surround Immediate Past President Greta Pollard
Randy Gradishar, from The Ohio State University, was the Broncos #1 Draft Choice in 1974. He earned several college titlesmultiple All-American as well as All Big-Ten. He led the “Orange Crush Defense” from 1974-1983. In 10 years, he never missed one of his 145 games. He is in the Top Ten List of NFL Linebackers of AllTime. He was recently inducted into the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame.
FON PresidentElect Devona Troutman and FON President
Melanie Wallace
FLEURISH
Rick and Diane Crandall, Michael and Debbie Fant with speakers Beth and Randy Gradishar
Photos by Scottie Iverson
Standing: Jeanne Taylor, who awards the Jerry Taylor Memorial Scholarship, with Board Member LaFawn Biddle
Photo Courtesy of FON
Music on the Rocks with a view, Sunday brunch and talent
Errol-Wesly Shaw’s Opera Goes Broadway performance at Garden of the Gods
Members of Garden of the Gods Club as well as contingents from Pikes Peak Opera League and Central City Opera gathered at the Kissing Camels View Room at Garden of the Gods for
a sumptuous brunch buffet and music. Popular Errol-Wesly Shaw sang only two opera arias and thrilled the audience with his versatility: Great American Songbook selections as well Broadway show tunes.
ABOVE: Representing Central City Opera: Music on the Rocks Coordinator Susan Stiff, Central City Opera Guild President Katie Grassby, Christina Dinegar, Linda Clark, Pam Wiegand
RIGHT: Kissing camels statue greeted guests at the entry
LEFT: A beautiful view of Garden of the Gods at any given time
Garden of the Gods Hotel owner Judy Mackay, former Mayor of Colorado Springs and two-time Colorado Attorney General John Suthers and President of Pikes Peak Opera League Nicole de Naray
The stars of the event: Seasoned artist bassbaritone Errol-Wesly Shaw accompanied by Argentinian-American Pianist Steven AguiloArbues who also has an impressive resume
Leonard Dinegar, daughter Sarah and wife Christina, Tammy and Tyler Kraemer surround Dr. Sandy and Dorothy Kraemer
Central City Opera Board Chair Sonny Wiegand and Central City Opera Director of Development Dr. Megan Quilliam
Garden of the Gods Sr VP Development Jan Verweij and Director of Club Membership Janell Paris
COLLABORATION EQUALS SUCCESS
Denver South celebrates the holidays
BY FREDA MIKLIN STAFF WRITER
DENVER
SOUTH
HOLIDAY
PARTY
is a proud supporter of Denver South
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM DENVER SOUTH
Lone Tree Mayor Marissa Harmon, Centennial City Council Member Don Sheehan, and Centennial City Council Member and Candidate for Mayor Christine Sweetland Arapahoe County Commissioner Carrie Warren-Gully, South Metro Fire Rescue Chief Government Affairs Officer Mike Dell’Orfano
South Metro Denver Chamber CEO and President Jeff Keener, Alpine Bank President of Business Development Charlie Kercheval
Greenwood Village City Council Member Donna Johnston, Centennial City Council Member Marlo Alston
Lone Tree City Council Member Alicia Brown, Douglas County State Rep. Anthony Hartsook
GV Mayor George Lantz, Centennial City Council Members Don Sheehan and Mike Sutherland
Park Meadows Business Improvement District’s Erin Tatlock, Senior General Manager of Park Meadows with Steven Sayers
David Worley telling Villager reporter Freda Miklin about Denver South’s future plans
Arapahoe and Douglas Counties State Rep. Eliza Hamrick, Mike Hamrick
Castle Pines City Council Member Deborah Mulvey, Yangson Baker, Arapahoe County Commissioners Jeff Baker and Leslie Summey
Shea Properties Executive Vice-President Peter Culshaw, Centennial City Manager Matt Sturgeon, Greenwood Village Deputy City Manager John Sheldon
Photos by Freda Miklin and Susan Sweeney Lanam
Greenwood Village Mayor's Holiday Tree Lighting held at GV City Hall on Dec. 7
Cherry Hills Village Celebration
Photos by Freda Miklin
Photos by Freda Miklin
• 3-5pm
Gingerbread House Making Party
Coach of the Year?
Here’s one
Now that Travis Hunter—as he most definitely deserved—has won the Heisman Trophy, it’s time to jump on a new bandwagon. Or maybe start one.
I realize that local media members aren’t enamored with Sean Payton. Some, in fact, find him pompous, arrogant, conceited, insufferable, full of himself, autocratic, etc., etc.
possibility
the Year is how he dd it.
But how can even those who dislike him overlook the job he’s done coaching this year’s Denver Broncos?
With Sunday’s 31-13 victory over the Colts, they’re:
• in second place in the AFC West and almost certain to make the NFL Playoffs for the first time in nine years;
• assured of their first winning record since 2016; and
• one win away from their first double-digit victory total since their Super Bowl championship season of 2015.
That alone sounds like a Coach of the Year Award resume, to me.
But there’s more to a Coach of the Year than just winning games and making the playoffs. (Fourteen of the 32 teams in the National Football League qualify for the postseason, but many of their head coaches are not under consideration.)
The measure of a Coach of
In Sean Payton’s case, he is doing it with a rookie quarterback and eight other rookies, including receivers Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin. He also has 11 second-year players on the roster, as well as four guys who are classified as first-year players because they were rookies last season but didn’t get into a regular-season game.
So, it’s a young team with inexperience at the most important position on the field.
Young players test a coach’s patience, as running back Audric Estime did by fumbling early and too often. But Payton made him a project instead of abandoning him, and lately he’s been an important part of the running game.
A Coach of the Year candidate has to make tough calls, too.
In Payton’s case, he decided to move on from Justin Simmons, a stalwart in the defensive secondary throughout the long playoff drought. The defense seems no worse for it, and arguably better.
Then he pulled the plug on Tim Patrick, a go-to wide receiver until injuries robbed him of two-plus seasons just when he looked like the team’s best pass-catcher. Then he waived an off-season free agent signing, receiver Josh
Reynolds—choosing to rely on Vele and Franklin, instead. Releasing Simmons caused some howls, but nothing compared to biting the bullet on Russell Wilson and eating a huge sum of money, in favor of the sixth quarterback chosen in the first 12 picks of last April’s draft (which also was questioned . . . debated , , , criticized.
Now Nix is a candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year (despite a sub-par performance against Indianapolis).
There are other worthy candidates for the National Football League Coach of the Year Award, which is bestowed by The Associated Press.
Not the least is Pittsburgh’s Mike Tomlin, who has the Steelers leading their division. Most significantly (and ironically), he has DangRuss looking like the quarterback the Broncos thought they’d acquired for a king’s ransom a few years ago.
Another is Dan Quinn, rumored to be a candidate to become Denver’s head coach a few mistakes ago. He’s now leading the recently struggling Washington Commanders into playoff contention in the National Conference East Division, and like Payton, he’s also doing it with a rookie quarterback.
There’s also Dan Campbell, who has built the perennially hapless Detroit Lions into a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Campbell, though, should be recognized for the job he’s done over four seasons, not one. After his first team won only three games, the Lions have improved steadily: 9-8 in 2022, 12-5 last year and 12-2 so far this season. They missed last year’s Super Bowl by three points, losing to San Francisco 34-31 in the NFC Championship game.
And the difference between Quinn and Payton is the difference between Jayden Daniels, the second pick in this year’s draft after winning the Heisman Trophy, and Bo Nix, whose selection as the 12th overall pick raised eyebrows.
As for Tomlin, he must be credited with resurrecting Russell Wilson’s career. But the Steelers went 10-7 and made the playoffs last year. Let Wilson be the Comeback Player of the Year and leave it at that.
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 16 books, nine of them sports-related. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@ comcast.net
For the person on your gift list who has everything
Wondering what to get that hard-to-buy-for person on your gift list?
How about a Gulfstream jet? Tom Cruise once gave his now exwife Katie Holmes one of those and it only set him back $20 million. I’m not sure what she did with it after their divorce. I hope not what a lot of other people do with an expensive gift they got from an ex—pawn it.
Speaking of flying, here’s another great idea. Popstar Katy Perry surprised her now former husband Russell Brand with tickets for the two of them aboard the Virgin Galactic spaceship for only $200,000. It just goes to show you, extravagant gifts don’t necessarily improve your relationship. Perry
and Brand broke up before take-off. Maybe they were fighting over who’d get to sit by the window.
Here on earth but still out of this world, Angelina Jolie gave Brad Pitt a California waterfall one Christmas. I’m not sure how much it cost her, but I guess if you have to ask you can’t afford it.
These are just a few of the terrific ideas I found while surfing the net looking for gifts for those people on my list who have everything. In the end, I didn’t buy anything because I believe in shopping locally.
But I’ll share some of the other gift ideas I found in case you have some hard-to-buy-for folks in your
life. I didn’t find any waterfalls for sale, but I did come across a website where you could buy an actual island. Prices vary but I did see a really nice one for around $19 million. For $19 million, there’s probably a waterfall included.
If you’re looking for something a little smaller for your loved one, how about the Graff Diamonds Hallucination watch for the clock-stopping price of just $55 million? Heart stopping too.
But it would be less expensive and equally as impressive if they just checked the time on their new Goldvish Le Million cellphone with diamond-encrusted body. At only $1 million, it’s also more affordable than an island, a waterfall or a Gulfstream jet. Plus it’s easier to wrap.
Of course, you can go cheaper
DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 645-6600
PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner,
In the Interest of:
ISAIAH WALKER Child, and concerning, NIKA JENKINS and JOHN DOE Respondents.
Jordan Lewis, Reg. #50198 Assistant County Attorney 14980 E. Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 303-636-1883 (F) 303-636-1889
Case No: 23JV294 Division: 34
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY
HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT REGARDING RESPONDENT, JOHN DOE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgment regarding RESPONDENT, JOHN DOE is set for January 16, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. in Division 34 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child(ren) dependent and neglected in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.
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-Div34
•Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.
•Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the
alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.
If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664.
When prompted enter Access code: 2594 408 0614 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).
If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin. Respectfully submitted on December 11, 2024.
Jordan Lewis, Reg. #50198
Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner 14980 E. Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 303-636-1883 303-636-1889 FAX
Published in The Villager Published: December 19, 2024 Legal # 11688
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:
ARACELY RAMIREZ LOPEZ, DYLAN LEONEL RAMIREZ LOPEZ AND JASLYN NAHOMY RAMIREZ LOPEZ, Children, and concerning,
MARINA PATRICIA LOPEZ CHEN AND LEONEL ANTONIO RAMIREZ SANCHEZ, Respondents.
Erinn Walz, Esq. #43200 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 (303) 636-1821
Case No: 24JV317 Division: 22
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY
HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT CONCERNING LEONEL RAMIREZ SANCHEZ SET FOR JANUARY 6, 2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent, Leonel Antonio Ramirez Sanchez, is set for
JANUARY 6, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and enter into a treatment plan by default in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.
The Arapahoe County District Court is holding this hearing via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link:
•https://judicial.webex.com/meet/ D18-ARAP-Div22
•Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.
•Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.
•If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664. When prompted enter Access code: 2594 887 9073 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).
YOU ARE FURTHER COMMANDED to appear before the Court at said time and place, either in person or by Cisco WebEx Meetings. If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin.
Dated December 15, 2024.
Erinn Walz, Reg. #43200
Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner
Published in The Villager
Published: December 19, 2024 Legal # 11689
DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO
7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 645-6600
still, with cheaper being a relative term. The VIPN Black Diamond iPhone 5 is just $300,000 and the Vertu Signature V is a measly $87,350.00. These may be better options for the person on your gift list who misplaces their cellphone often. Me, for example.
That’s exactly why I don’t want my husband to get me one of those for Christmas. I’m afraid I’ll run it through the washer. Well that and also because he’d have to cash in our retirement savings and sell our house and everything in it to do it.
Same goes for the Atelier Des Ors Larmes du Desert perfume. It’s just $125,240 for 3.4 ounces. Honey, you shouldn’t have. You really, really shouldn’t have. But it’s the perfect gift for that special someone on your list who loves the smell of money.
PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner,
In the Interest of: ISAIAH WALKER Child, and concerning, NIKA JENKINS and JOHN DOE Respondents.
Jordan Lewis, Reg. #50198 Assistant County Attorney 14980 E. Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 303-636-1883 (F) 303-636-1889
Case No: 23JV294 Division: 34
NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT REGARDING RESPONDENT, JOHN DOE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgment regarding RESPONDENT, JOHN DOE is set for January 16, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. in Division 34 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child(ren) dependent and neglected in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code. 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-Div34
•Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.
•Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below. If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio
And let’s not forget the kiddos on your list. What little one wouldn’t love the Kid’s Swarovski Crystal Embellished Maserati Ghibli for just $32,000? It’s never too early to start instilling the wholesome lifetime habits of driving safely, going in style and squandering money.
And finally, let’s not forget your pampered pooch. Sure, your dog eats anything he finds on the floor or in the road ditch. But that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t prefer to eat it out of the $4,800 Mastercraft Pet Bowl.
I don’t have a dog, but if I did, I’d want him to have the La Jeune Tulipe Diamond Dog Collar for just $150,000. My cat has managed to slip every collar we’ve ever tried to put on him, so I don’t intend to buy him a fancy new one. I just hate spending $150,000 on someone who doesn’t appreciate the gesture.
SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS RELATED TO THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT (ARPA) GRANT FUNDS AND THE GENERAL FUND FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) SUBSCRIPTIONS
Copies of the Ordinances are on file at the office of the City Clerk and may be inspected during regular business hours.
Published in The Villager Published: December 19, 2024 Legal # 11685 CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE ORDINANCE 9, SERIES 2024 A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING A BUDGET AND LEVYING PROPERTY TAXES FOR THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, COLORADO FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025
Copies of the Ordinances are on file at the office of the City Clerk and
NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW PARADE
JAN. 9 12 noon. Downtown Denver.
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
WHAT’S NEW?
James DeMarco has joined First American State Bank as AVP, Treasury Management Solutions Product Manager.
Larry & Jill Dipasquale are celebrating 35 years of operation for Epicurean Catering.
Kelly Brough has been named CEO of Fitzsimmons Innovation Community in Aurora; a campus
Gala Retirement Reception for Honorary Consul of Sweden
SIR DONALD PETERSON – HONORARY
SWEDISH CONSUL EMERITUS
The historic University Club in downtown Denver was the setting for a September 18, 2024 elegant reception and Smörgåsbord soiree in honor of the retirement of Sir Donald Peterson as the Honorary Consul for Sweden, covering Colorado, New Mexico and Wyoming.
The joyous event was attended by diplomats from the Consular Corps of Colorado, as well as admirers of the consular services provided on a voluntary basis by Donald over the past 40 years. Donald is the longest-standing Honorary Consul for Sweden in the United States.
In recognition of his continuous years of dedicated voluntary service on behalf of the Swedish people and promotion of Swedish-American business and cultural interests, Donald was knighted by Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf, with an award of the Royal Order of the Polar Star Medal, First and Second Class and Commander levels.
The reception guests enjoyed a bountiful Smörgåsbord, prepared by Chef Brendan at the University Club, which included gravlax with mustard sauce, Swedish meatballs with lingonberries, pickled herring in cream sauce, Hasselback potatoes, a tomato and goat cheese salad and assorted deserts! Musical entertainment was provided by the Killian Jazz Trio.
Donald’s legacy as Honorary Consul for Sweden in the U.S. spreads over three generations and began with his grandfather, Enoch Peterson, who immigrated to Colorado from Sweden in 1914. Enoch printed and published the Swedish Western News, a weekly newspaper serving the interests of local Swedes. The newspaper helped establish Swedish Hospital in Englewood, which originated with treatment for tuberculosis provided by a Swedish physician, Dr. Charles A. Bundsen. The hospital was supported by seven local Swedish churches, each of which ran columns in Enoch’s newspaper, which was essentially the Facebook of the time, with notices of church news of births, deaths, marriages and related social events.
When the last issue of the Swedish Western News was published in 1979, it ended a 50-year streak of the longest-published ethnic newspaper in Colorado. Shortly afterwards, the City of Denver condemned four square blocks
of more than 80 innovative health and life sciences companies. Brough was former president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
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.
in downtown, to make way for the Colorado Convention Center, which included the building where the Swedish Western News printing plant was located. Because no one wanted the huge, outmoded newspaper printing presses and they were too large to easily move offsite, the City planners decided to bury the presses under the Convention Center, making quite an interesting time capsule for discovery by future generations!
Enoch was also a notary public and notarized job acceptance letters from the employment ads
the royal family, the Swedish Prime Minister, Ambassadors and Consul Generals. Donald also arranged trade mission tours to Sweden by Colorado Governors, members of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade and entrepreneurs, to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy.
Donald’s promotion of international events and representation of Sweden included the visit by Pope John Paul II for World Youth Day in 1994, the opening of Denver International Airport in 1995, the Democratic National Convention in Denver in 2008, the opening of IKEA in Centennial in 2011 and the opening of the Swedish
in his newspaper and thus, brought many Swedish immigrants to Colorado. Based on his years of dedication to Swedish people in Colorado, Enoch was knighted in the Order of Vasa by the King of Sweden in 1961.
Donald’s father, Glenn, took over handling Consulate matters upon Enoch’s retirement, based on an appointment as Honorary Consul by the King of Sweden. Donald’s appointment as Honorary Consul, which came in 1984 from the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was primarily for the promotion of international trade and business relations between Sweden and Colorado. Accordingly, Donald formed the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce of Colorado, which he has maintained annually as an active, not-for-profit corporation with the Colorado Secretary of State.
During Donald’s tenure, he promoted extensive diplomatic and business relations between Sweden and Colorado, including arrangements for numerous visits to Colorado by such Swedish dignitaries and diplomats as King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and members of
Viking Exhibition at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science in 2017.
Donald is succeeded as the Honorary Swedish Consul for the Rocky Mountain District by Marie Forsberg Mare, who is a dual U.S.-Swedish citizen, residing in Colorado with her husband and son. Marie is the immediate past president of the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce of Colorado and was vetted by the U.S. Department of State with its recent investiture of the official authority for Marie to represent Sweden in the U.S.
Donald is also a long-standing columnist for The Villager and has contributed over 240 articles “About the Law”, published in the Senior Choices section. Donald’s law practice continues under his specialty of estate planning regarding probate and the preparation of wills, trusts, power of attorney documents, as well as the pursuit of Guardianships and Conservatorships. Donald’s law practice and the Honorary Consulate of Sweden offices will remain at 5675 DTC Blvd., Suite 250, Greenwood Village, CO 80111.
Koelbel Library Cafe Offers
Winter Drink Specials
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to visit the library! While you’re stocking up on winter reads, you can warm up with a seasonal drink at the Koelbel Library Cafe (5955 S. Holly St., Centennial). Friendly baristas are serving up candy cane mochas, nutcracker lattes and fireside lattes.
Candy Cane Mocha
Peppermint syrup with choice of white or dark chocolate sauce, topped with whipped cream and candy cane pieces.
Nutcracker Latte
Praline and toffee nut syrups, topped with whipped cream and toffee pieces.
Fireside Latte
Cozy combination of orange and amaretto flavors, sprinkled with cinnamon.
“The Koelbel Library Cafe serves delicious drinks and snacks from local vendors, with all sales supporting the library. It’s a great place to meet, work or relax and crack open a book,” said Katie Holloman, Arapahoe Libraries cafes manager. “When you need a snack after Storytime or a cup of tea to go with your novel, stop in to enjoy a treat this holiday season.”
To learn more, visit arapahoelibraries.org or call 303-LIBRARY (303-542-7279).
About Arapahoe Libraries
Arapahoe Libraries includes eight community libraries, a jail library and a Library on Wheels in Arapahoe County, Colorado. For more information, visit arapahoelibraries.org.
Candy Cane Mocha
Nutcracker Latte
Fireside Latte
ABOVE: Don with his medal. RIGHT: Nancy Easterling, Kit Peterson, Donald Peterson and Kelly Nogueira
Marie Forsberg Mare, Successor Honorary Consul and Sir Donald Peterson, Consul Emeritus
St. Andrew’s Village is Elevating Aurora’s Active Independent Living & Assisted Living Experience to a New Standard
At St. Andrew’s Village, we’re doing our part to make the lifestyle you or your loved one already know and love even better. Now, working alongside new manager Discovery Management Group, we’re bringing steady leadership, decades of experience and financial strength, and the same passion you or your loved one have for building a life and legacy right here in Aurora. Come explore a variety of care services and exceptional lifestyle activities designed to help seniors make the most of their golden years.
