Centennial Citizen 030923

Cherry Creek Schools o ers free gun locks

Sen. Sullivan speaks out

BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

lence came to the forefront March 3 in Colorado, Cherry Creek Schools

Superintendent Christopher Smith sent an email saying gun locks are available for families to pick up at the schools — no questions asked.  Gun locks are devices that prevent

free of charge, to families.

e gun locks are available in baskets in the entryways of schools, and there are also pamphlets that explain how to use the locks, he said.

“Every year, we lose students and District to gun violence, including

Airport gets funding for tra c control tower

$4M grant

approved

BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding $4 million to Centennial Airport to design a new airport

tra c control tower, the administration announced.

e Centennial Airport, located at 7565 S. Peoria St., is a general aviation airport. According to the FAA, it is one of the 25 busiest airports in the U.S. and averages 1,000 takeo s and landings per day.

e tower is the building that the air

tra c controllers sit in to direct tra c in, out and around the airport’s airspace, said Chris ompson, Centennial Airport’s manager of communications, via email. It is controlled by the FAA but the airport assists in general maintenance and upkeep, he said.

“Suicides are on the rise across the country, according to CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) data.

“In CCSD, suicide threat assessments are also increasing. Firearms are now the leading cause of death

Playgrounds, dog park coming to Dove Valley Regional Park Construction underway

BY TAYLER SHAW

TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

New playgrounds, a dog park and a bike skills park are among several additions coming to Dove Valley Regional Park as part of an $18 million expansion project that began March 1, according to a news release from Arapahoe County.

e 52-acre park, located at 7900 S. Potomac St. near the Denver Broncos Training Camp, will nearly double in size as an additional 40 acres will be developed over the next year, per the release.

e park was annexed into the City of Centennial in 2022, said Allison Wittern, the city’s communications director, via email. e $18 million project includes $3 million from the city, she said.

e construction will occur in two

COURTESY OF CENTENNIAL AIRPORT

Littleton High School parents reflect on lockdown

Communication, strategy discussed

BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

When Littleton High School ninth grader Osso Siddall heard lockdown alarms begin during his lunch period, he did the safest thing he could think of — he ran.

“ e lockdown alert sounded, and then everybody was just screaming and confused,” he said. “And then I heard someone, I think it was like a sta member, said something about somebody was in the building… So I got out of there as fast as I could.” ree blocks and a couple hundred rapid heartbeats later, he arrived at his home. His mother, Mary Siddall, knew something was wrong right away when her son opened the door, out of breath.

“I’m like, ‘What’s going on?’” she said. “And he’s like, ‘Well there was a lockdown.’ And I was like, ‘Why are you here?’ And he said, ‘Well, because I left. Why would I be in the building if there is a shooter?’”

Littleton High School was one of more than a dozen Colorado schools that were targeted by hoax threat calls, known as “swatting” calls, on Feb. 22. e incident threw parents, students, school sta , law enforcement o cials and district o cials into immediate response mode as they tried to gure out what was happening and how to communi-

cate during the incident.

Communication

Melissa Yongue found out about the lockdown when her ninth-grade daughter texted her from inside the school. Yongue was aware of the swatting calls happening at other schools. Her daughter said she heard no gun re in the building.

“I would say within probably 10, 20 minutes, I think… my husband and her and I all felt pretty condent that it was just part of the hoax calls coming in because she wasn’t hearing anything,” Yongue said. “So

it was kind of a short-lived panic, but it was de nitely a panic. I mean, it’s not something that any parent wants to get from a text message from their child in 2023.”

While the lockdown was happening, Yongue said she continuously refreshed the Littleton Police Department Twitter page to see updates on the situation. On the police department’s Tweets, comments from some parents expressed frustration that Littleton Public Schools was not communicating more during the lockdown.

One comment at 2:31 p.m. thanked the department for its updates, saying that the district had “communicated nothing” at that point. Another comment posted the next morning said, “And there was also no communication with the parents until 2 hours and it was over! Not cool.”

e lockdown started at 1:47 p.m., according to the district. e district sent a text message and email to parents about the lockdown at approximately 3:27 p.m., just a few minutes before the school’s regular dismissal time and about 17 minutes before the lockdown lifted. Later in the evening, the district sent messages from Littleton High School Principal Cathy Benton and Superintendent Brian Ewert.

Yongue recognized there could be many reasons the information didn’t come faster from the district, but said it was still frustrating that

the information came out as late as it did.

“I understand it’s a sticky situation, but I think lack of information is what causes people to speculate,” she said. “And it takes one student or one person to misinterpret something or mishear something or mistake something and that information spreads like wild re… I would like to have more information coming from them but like I said, we had the information coming from (the police department) and that is what I think kept a lot of parents as calm as you can be in a situation like that.”

Police spokesperson Sheera Poelman said her goal with police communications is to get information out quickly when it relates to public safety. e district, she said, is a different entity with di erent communication processes.

“Both the school system and the police department realized that we need to get our communication teams together,” she said. “So that way, if something like this happens in the future, we’re ready.”

Littleton Public Schools spokesperson Diane Leiker said the district was working to get information out as fast as they could while also juggling many other concerns during the incident, especially because it happened near dismissal time. ey were coordinating with law enforcement, guring out delayed dismissals, adjusting bus plans and also managing situations at the district’s three other schools that were on secure perimeter at the same time as the lockdown, she said.

“It’s important to note that (the school district’s) rst priority anytime that there’s an incident is to ensure the safety of our students and sta ,” she said. “We always want to communicate with our parents and our sta and our community as quickly as possible. We’re not always in a position to do that, though, because the information isn’t available to us or it’s changing so rapidly.”

She said the district learned from the experience and has made changes for the future.

“We wish that we could have communicated in a much more timely manner,” she said. “Every incident we have, we learn, and we certainly learned from that one. And so it is our goal and our mission to do better.”

LITTLETON POLICE DEPARTMENT

SEE LOCKDOWN, P31

Bill would protect educators

BY JASON GONZALES CHALKBEAT COLORADO

A year after Colorado lawmakers denied employees of school districts and public universities the right to unionize and negotiate contracts, legislators are considering a bill that would provide some protections for them and other public sector employees.

Senate Bill 111 would extend rights for public employees who openly express views about the workplace, start the process of forming a union, or participate in organizing. Public workers would also be protected from retaliation, discrimination, and intimidation from employers. Private sector employees already have these rights under federal law.

e bill doesn’t require public employers to recognize unions or grant workers the ability to strike. But the legislation, which a Senate committee advanced Tuesday, could represent a notable step forward for K-12 and higher education workers who want stronger labor protections for what they say are crucial workplace rights.

Critics who united to exclude education sta from a law expanding collective bargaining rights last year say this year’s legislation is unnecessary, unfair to employers, and would hurt schools.

Jade Kelly, CWA Local 7799 president, said the bill extends some rights granted to private employees through the National Labor Relations Act, a 1935 law to ensure workers can advocate for better conditions and form labor unions without retaliation. Her union represents higher education workers, library workers, and public

DOVE VALLEY

phases, with the rst phase focusing on athletic eld upgrades, additional parking, a new shade pavilion and playgrounds, and a new multi-use community lawn, according to the county’s website.

e dog park and bike skills park will be located on the undeveloped 40 acres to the east of the existing ball elds.

Construction for phase one is slated to last until spring of 2024.

e construction will take place weekdays between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Portions of the park will be closed and the athletic eld programming will be suspended from this spring through the fall of 2023.

Some sections of the park and the east parking lot will remain open to the public during the construction period, according to the county’s website. e multi-use trails along East Broncos Parkway and South Chambers Road will mostly remain open but will have occasional closures.

ere will be signs to show residents which areas are accessible when they visit, per the release.

“Our parks are the heart of our community,” Arapahoe County District 2 Commissioner Jessica Campbell-Swanson said in the release. “Upgrading the facilities and amenities in our parks will help more people spend time outdoors, stay active, and build stronger relationships with their neighbors.”

defenders, among others.

She said public employees do have certain rights under federal statutes. But Kelly said that employers often violate those laws because a federal complaint must be led by workers when there are issues. It’s a di cult process that creates hostile work environments where public employees feel they can’t speak out, she said.

Kelly said ling a complaint is expensive and takes up a lot of time and “employers know that.”

By extending the federal rights for private workers to public workers statewide, the bill would ensure the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment enforces these rights and step in when violations happen, mediate any issues, and take action.

Democrats in the state legislature have been pushing for more rights for public sector workers. e legislation lawmakers passed last year grants county employees the right to organize and bargain collectively over pay and working conditions. at law also prohibits strikes, work stoppages, and work slowdowns.

But facing sti opposition from school district administrators, school boards, higher education o cials, and Democratic Gov. Jared Polis, education workers were excluded from last year’s bill.

Senate Bill 111 is sponsored by state Sen. Robert Rodriguez and state Rep. Steven Woodrow, both Denver Democrats. e bill passed the Senate Local Government and Housing Committee on Tuesday with a partisan 4-3 vote.

SEE LEGISLATURE, P24

Phase two of the park expansion project will involve creating additional youth elds, a concession building and a lighted championship eld with arti cial turf, builtin seating and shade structure. e timeline of phase two is still being determined, per the website.

According to the release, the Dove Valley Regional Park improvements “are directly funded through the Arapahoe County Open Space Sales and Use Tax.”  e county’s website states that in 2003, voters approved a resolution imposing a 0.25% County Open Space Sales and Use Tax, which is equivalent to 25 cents per $100 spent, on the “sale of tangible personal property at retail and the furnishings of certain services” within the county.

e tax funds open space sites, improvements, programs, and services throughout the county. It was reauthorized permanently in 2021, per the website. e county said, in the release, that 50% of the tax collected is given back directly to cities and towns to support open space and recreation programs.

“By investing in our parks, we are investing in the future of our county and a healthy quality of life for our residents,” Campbell-Swanson said in the release.    ose who are interested in learning more about the park expansion project can visit: arapahoegov. com/dovevalleymp. Residents who have questions or comments about the project can also call (720) 874-6540 or email open_spaces@ arapahoegov.com.

Eviction bill could help residents if lease expires

Five states have similar laws

BY ANDREW KENNEY COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO

A bill advancing through the Colorado legislature would make it easier for renters to stay in their homes even after their lease expires, and it also would give them other protections against eviction.

Currently, when a lease ends the landlord can decide whether the tenant gets to stay. For example, they could simply refuse to o er a renewal of the current lease — forcing the tenant to leave or be evicted. at system makes it too easy for landlords to get rid of renters, even if the renters have done nothing wrong, said Rep. Javier Mabrey, a Democratic sponsor of the bill, H.B. 23-1171.

‘’When their leases are up, the landlord refuses to o er a new lease,” Mabrey said at a committee hearing on Wednesday. “We’re trying to prevent that kind of retaliation.”

Under the new proposal, some of the power would shift to the tenant. In many cases, landlords would essentially be required to o er a renewal of the lease in “substantially identical” terms. If they fail to do so, renters could keep paying rent under the terms of the previous lease — and they would be protected from

eviction.

e bill passed the House Transportation, Housing & Local Government committee on a party-line vote on March 1.

Opponents of the bill, including real-estate interests and smaller landlords, warned it would place an undue burden on landlords. ey also said it could lead some to leave

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the market or raise rents. e proposal would allow landlords to make a “reasonable” rent increase when they renew the lease. But Mabrey said that was not meant to act as a form of rent control. (He is running another bill on that topic.)

“We’re just trying to prevent retaliatory rent increases,” Mabrey said. At the hearing, renters and their

advocates described cases where landlords refused to renew leases for retaliatory or discriminatory reasons, such as because of a renter’s immigration status or because the renter had asked for repairs. Others talked about being forced out of their homes as the landlord pursued

Orchard Crossing Apartments in Westminster is an a ordable housing community that also includes housing for people with vouchers. PHOTO BY ANDREW FRAIELI

Centennial Youth Achievement Awards application open

$1,000 scholarships o ered

BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

High school seniors living in Centennial can apply between now and March 31 for the Centennial Youth Achievement Awards, which includes a $1,000 college scholarship, the city announced in a news release.

higher rents.

“ is goes back to the prevention of homelessness and making sure that we keep people in their homes,” said Rep. Serena GonzalesGuttierez, a Democratic cosponsor of the bill. Sen. Julie Gonzales also is sponsoring the bill.

Drew Hamrick, a representative of the Colorado Apartment Association, argued that renters already have protections against certain non-renewals. State and federal law already forbid landlords from refusing to renew for a variety of reasons, including as retaliation for making maintenance requests or as an act of discrimination against protected classes, he said.

Mabrey, the sponsor, argued that those laws are hard to enforce because it’s often impossible to prove why a landlord has refused to renew

e achievement awards is a scholarship program presented by the city and Jacobs, the city’s public works and code compliance provider, per the release.

“ e Youth Achievement Awards program honors and recognizes exemplary young leaders who have made signi cant contributions to Centennial through service and outstanding leadership in school, community and the workplace,” the city said in the release.

a lease. A broader law will protect more people’s rights, he said.

“It is incredibly hard, incredibly hard to prove discrimination in court … especially for a pro se tenant who doesn’t have an attorney,” he said.

Hamrick said landlords need to be able to end a rental relationship. It’s often the best way to deal with issues where a renter is misbehaving but the landlord can’t prove it, he said.

“Just hold your noses, let it go for another three months, and (don’t) renew the lease,” he said of the current approach, which he favors. e bill would still allow landlords to evict people who commit “substantial” violations of the lease, including failure to pay or refusing to let a landlord into the property. In other situations, though, landlords would have to pay to get rid of renters.

For example, if a property owner wanted to demolish, renovate or redevelop their home, they would have to provide “relocation as-

To apply, seniors must submit a completed application, short essay responses and a letter of recommendation from an adult who is unrelated to them and is either a teacher, counselor, school administrator, advisor, coach, employer or community leader.  Up to four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded, and the money can be used for college tuition, fees and course enrollment, according to the release.

sistance” to the renter, paying the renter the equivalent of at least two months’ rent. e same would apply when owners want to live in the property themselves.

In those situations, the landlord would have to give up to 120 days’ notice, which advocates argued would help tenants nd a new place.

One witness, eviction defense attorney Spencer Bailey, described the case of an 87-year-old man he represented, for whom he used a pseudonym.

“He had always paid his rent on time. Mr. Jones had never broken any rules, never had any complaints. He was given only three weeks to move out after living in a place for almost two decades, and he had nowhere to go,” Bailey said, adding that the man had been on a monthto month lease.

e bill “would give people like Mr. Jones substantially more time to nd somewhere to live,” Bailey said.

Carla Friedli, who leases out a home she owns in Longmont, said

e Centennial Youth Commission will select the award recipients.

e youth commission serves as an advisory board to the city council and is made up of 11 teens ranging in age from 13 to 18, per the city’s website.

e winning applicants will be noti ed by April 28.

ose interested in learning more about the achievement awards and how to apply can visit: centennialco. gov/youthawards.

that relocation fees would disrupt her retirement plans.

“I really might be forced to sell this home or change the terms of my lease now to account for two months, plus an additional month of relocation fees,” said Friedli, who described herself as an educator and mental health worker.

Five other states have a similar “just cause” or “good cause” eviction law, including New Jersey, California, New Hampshire, Oregon, Washington, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition. ough those states’ laws have di erent details.

e bill’s next step is the House oor, where it would need to win a majority of the chamber. It also would require approval by the Senate before it heads to Gov. Jared Polis.

is story is from CPR News, a nonpro t news source. Used by permission. For more, and to support Colorado Public Radio, visit cpr.org.

Bridging the gap between local shopping and online

Student creates app

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

When local businesses started to close down due to the pandemic, University of Denver student JohnPaul Evans wanted to help. ree years later, Evans, who grew up in Parker, launched Harvester, a website that connects shoppers to their local businesses.

While talking with an owner of a running shoe store, Evans learned that many business closures were in uenced by the pandemic, but the problem started years before COVID-19.

“ e issue kind of started back around 2012, 2013 when online shopping kind of took o and especially online shopping with large retailers,” said Evans.

As Evans saw that online shopping made shopping too convenient of an option compared to shopping at local businesses, he began to think of a way to make it more convenient to shop locally online and make it an easy process.

For over a year, Evans tried to make di erent apps and played around with websites. rough Harvester, he made a marketplace that allows shoppers to search and browse products directly from local shops.

Harvester launched in February and already has 70,000 stores on the site for shoppers across the U.S.

“All the stores that are currently

listed on Harvester are ones that already have kind of an online presence with a website and they have their inventories up already,” said Evans. “I found a way to nd a bunch of local businesses across the U.S. that had websites with all their products and consolidate them all to one site so they can shop directly from that store on.”

With Harvester, online shoppers can freely shop trending local businesses by entering their zip code. ey can also search for an item they are looking for and use the lter to sort by distance, price or relevance.

Shoppers can create an online account with Harvester and follow their favorite businesses.

e name Harvester was inspired by a machine that takes place in the process of deforestation, as seen in the Amazon rainforest. e machine is called a harvester.

“ at’s kind of where I got the idea,” said Evans. “Because a lot of local businesses were losing a lot of their businesses to huge online retailers like Amazon. And so I thought, it’s kind of like a tongue in cheek.”

As Harvester includes local busi-

Youth Achievement Awards

Apply by March 31, 2023!

The Centennial Youth Achievement Awards honor and recognize exemplary young leaders who have made significant contributions to Centennial through service and outstanding leadership in school, community and the workplace.

nesses with online stores, Evans said he would like for his website to expand to a point where stores that do not have an online presence will join Harvester.

Evans hopes to grow the number of users so he can adjust the app as necessary to make it fun for the users to come back.

“I hope to kind of put the fondness of local shopping in the digital form, kind of make the digital mainstreet of sorts,” said Evans. “I want to make it so any day of the week, you can browse your local stores and shop directly from your phone.”

Up to four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to be applied toward college tuition, fees and course enrollment.

For Information and To Apply centennialco.gov/youthawards

Apply by March 31, 2023

The local shopping page of the new Harvester app created by a local student. SCREENSHOT

for children in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” he added.

According to the CDC, in 2020, suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 2534. Suicides account for about 54% of all rearm deaths, and roughly 53% of all suicides involve a rearm, according to a 2022 article published by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Smith noted in his letter that the state law “Safe Storage of Firearms,” passed in 2021, requires rearms be responsibly and securely stored when they are not in use in order to prevent access by unsupervised juveniles and other unauthorized users.

“Responsible and safe gun storage in the home can save lives,” Smith wrote. “Any single step we can take to prevent suicide and save a life is a step worth taking.”

He said community members can nd more information on how to safely store guns online at projectchildsafe.org and bit.ly/safetoolkits.

Cherry Creek Schools also has a mental health webpage with resources regarding youth suicide prevention, available at: bit.ly/ cchealth23.

Smith’s letter was sent the same day as hundreds of East High School students marched to the Colorado Capitol to demand that state lawmakers take action to prevent more gun violence, as reported by e Colorado Sun.

East High School student Luis Gar-

cia, 16, died March 1 after spending weeks in the hospital following being shot outside of his school. Garcia was a member of the Denver East Angels soccer team, according to a GoFundMe that was created Feb. 14 to support Garcia and his family.

East High students, many wearing red, were joined by members of Moms Demand Action in asking for legislative action. After holding a rally on the west steps of the Capitol, the students gathered in the Senate gallery and watched as legislators addressed them, according to e Colorado Sun.

State Sen. Tom Sullivan, a Centennial Democrat who represents District 27, directly addressed the students and spoke of his son, Alex.

“Today’s the 554th Friday since my son, Alex, was murdered in the Aurora theater massacre on July 20, 2012,” Sullivan said.

e anger, grief, trauma and sadness that he feels never goes away, he said. He encouraged the students to look to their friends for support, and to remember that their grieving process is for them to decide — not anyone else.

“You need to remember that your friends are out there. at there’s others out there who have been through this just like you’re going through this. And that’s why I came down here, was to try to do everything I can so that I don’t have to see kids like you,” Sullivan said. “You stay with us so that we can get this gured out.”

“We need each and every one of you here,” he added. “ ank you so much for coming down. Keep it up.”

Sullivan is a prime sponsor of two proposed bills related to rearms —

House Bill 1219 and Senate Bill 170.

e house bill aims to establish a three-day waiting period to take place before a rearms seller may deliver a rearm to a purchaser.

Senate Bill 170 would expand the list of people who can petition for an extreme risk protection order to include licensed medical care providers, licensed mental health care providers, licensed educators and district attorneys. ese protection orders, also referred to as “red ag laws,” result in the temporary con scation of rearms from a person who poses a safety risk to themselves or others.

ese two bills were announced Feb. 23 in addition to two other guncontrol bills: Senate Bill 169, which

would increase the minimum age requirement to purchase or possess a rearm from 18 to 21 with some exceptions, and Senate Bill 168, which would make it easier to sue rearms manufacturers.

e Denver Post reported that Republican Rep. Mike Lynch, the minority leader of the state House of Representatives, said there will be “as vigorous of an opposition to this as any legislation you’ve seen come through here” and described the legislation as the “biggest single uni ed e ort to attack our Second Amendment rights that we’ve seen, I think, probably in Colorado history.”

e bills are scheduled to be considered by committees the week of March 6.

it around.

The Cherry Creek School District is handing out free gun locks provided by the Arapahoe County Sheri ’s O ce.

Centennial Airport owns the current tower, which opened in 1985, and the FAA leases it from the airport, ompson said. e new tower will replace the current tower and will increase operational capacity and enhance air eld safety, the FAA said in the release.

importance and is willing to give us a share of the pie so to say.”

e $4 million funding comes from the Airport Terminals Program, which is one of three aviation programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, according to the release. is law provides $1 billion annually for ve years for airport terminal grants.

“

e current tower is approaching 40 years old and there are some aspects of the building that need updating to continue safe and proper operation in the future and, much like a vehicle or other item, sometimes it is more cost-e ective to replace than update,” ompson wrote. “ ere are also some other operational advantages to a new tower depending on what site is selected.”

e $4 million will be set aside for site selection and the engineering and design of a new tower, ompson said. It will be a multi-year project and the actual construction timeline will be determined at a later date once the design work is done, he explained.

“It’s exciting and attering to receive the grant,” ompson wrote. “Centennial Airport has played a big role in the economic growth of both Arapahoe and Douglas counties and it is a good feeling to know that the FAA nationally recognizes our

“Today’s funding doesn’t just improve Centennial Airport’s terminal. It creates opportunities in the community for good-paying jobs and a chance to be part of our country’s thriving aviation sector,” FAA Deputy Administrator A. Bradley Mims said in the release.

Centennial Airport is one of three airports in Colorado that received funding. Denver International Airport was awarded $22 million to fund a portion of the baggage handling system replacement that the airport is planning. e Colorado Springs Airport received $6 million to help fund the remodel of its terminal concourse.

“Americans deserve the best airports in the world, and with demand for air travel surging back, this funding to improve the passenger experience couldn’t come at a more urgent time,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in the release. “ ese grants will make it faster and easier to check your bags, get through security, and nd your gate, all while creating jobs and supporting local economies.”

FROM PAGE 1

The FAA awarded $4 million to Centennial Airport to design a new airport tra c control tower.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CENTENNIAL AIRPORT

Summer Camps & Programs 2023

COUNTY AND COMMUNITY PROGRAMS

Arapahoe County Libraries

Locations: Multiple locations in Arapahoe County

Website: arapahoelibraries.org

Details: Each year, Arapahoe libraries hosts a variety of reading events and gatherings to help fill the summer hours.

Jefferson County Library

Locations: Events in Lakewood, Arvada, Golden, Evergreen, Edgewater, Wheat Ridge and more

Website: https://jeffcolibrary.org/

Details: With summer coming, the Jefferson County Library system is already holding information sessions and planning events, such as the Cosmic Conversations: Telescope Highlights of the Midnight Sky in June.

Douglas County Libraries

Locations: See website

Website: www.dcl.org/camp-dcl/

Details: Choose from weeklong half-day camps at six DCL locations or full-day camps at select locations from June 5 through Aug. 4. Camps are facilitated by subject matter experts and supported by trained staff and volunteers. Camp themes include science, robotics, creative arts, LEGOs, cooking and baking, with each camp geared to a specific age range.

Englewood – 2023 KidConnections

Summer Camp

Locations: See website

Website: https://bit.ly/3YRWCcC

Details: The program is a fully licensed day care by the State of Colorado, Department of Human Services for children 5 years old (and completed kindergarten) through 14 years old. There is a registration fee of $10 per child.

City of Golden

Locations: See website

Website: https://bit.ly/3Sm6Y1X

Details: Summer camp registration opens Feb. 28 for residents and March 2 for nonresidents. Golden addresses are not all within city limits; some are actually part of unincorporated Jefferson County. Check if your Golden address is within city limits at addresslookup.jeffco.us.

Evergreen Park & Recreation District

Locations: Variety of locations

Website: www.evergreenrecreation. com/201/Camps

Details: The annual programs provide options for kids starting at 3 years old.

City of Thornton – 2023 summer camps

Locations: Varies by camp

Website: www.thorntonco.gov/recreation/ Pages/registration-information.aspx

Details: The annual summer program is already underway with registration for residents beginning on Feb. 1. Nonresidents joined on Feb. 2. From physical activities and sports camps to arts and more — the annual program will continue to register participants.

City of Northglenn summer programs

Locations: See website

Website: www.northglenn.org/rec_and_ events/childrens_programs.php

Details: Participants will enjoy their time at the Northglenn Recreation Center swimming two times a week, playing games/ activities in the beautiful gym, going on fi eld trips, having in-house experiences, riding pedal boats at Webster Lake, playing daily at E.B Rains Jr. Memorial Park, plus much more.

Wheat Ridge Parks & Recreation

Location: 4355 Field St., Wheat Ridge

Website: www.rootedinfun.com/191

/Sun-Camp

Details: Wheat Ridge Sun Camp is a state-licensed day camp for children ages 6 to 13; offered during Jefferson County Public Schools’ spring, summer and winter breaks.

Arvada summer camps program

Location: 6901 Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada

Website: https://arvadacenter.org/education/summer-camps

Details: This summer, the Arvada center is offering a variety of half day camps and full-day camps — including prescheduled Awesome Art Packs. Awesome Art Packs are combinations of our most popular summer camps that provide full day activities for students. These camp packages are a creative and convenient way to give your child a multi-disciplinary arts experience this summer.

Highlands Ranch Community Association

Locations: Recreation centers throughout the community Website: https://hrcaonline.org/classescamps-activities/camps

Details: Every year, the Highlands Ranch Community Association works to provide something for everyone in its summer camp program. For children into sports, there are plenty of athletic camps available. For those looking to improve in art, arts and education programs are plentiful.

Town of Castle Rock Summer Camp Program

Locations: Vary based on camp

Website: https://www.crgov.com/3270/

Summer-Camps

Details: From sports camps to jedi training and science and arts — the Town of Castle Rock prevents a full slate of summer camp programs in 2023. Visit the town’s website to learn more about ages, prices and details.

Commerce City Parks & Recreation

Locations: Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Drive, Commerce City

Website: https://recreation.c3gov.com/ classes-programs/camps

Details: Youth Camp Venture is a traditional camp for children ages 6 to 10 and offers arts and crafts, STEM, active play, swimming and field trips. Camp takes place primarily outside at Eagle Pointe Rec Center. Adventure Trek is an outdoor adventure program that provides a new experience every day. Those ages 11 to 15 travel offsite for hiking, survival skills training, water activities and nature-based programming.

Town of Parker/Parker Fieldhouse

Location: 18700 Plaza Drive, Parker

Website:  https://parkerrec.com/2029/ Summer-Day-Camp

Details: Ages 5 to 13 can join this camp for themed games, activities, crafts and a ton of fun at the Parker Fieldhouse. Campers will be separated into age groups 5 to 6 years, 7 to 9 years, and 10 to 13 years. Expect swimming days and field trips too.

Foothills Parks & Recreation District

Location: 6612 S. Ward St., Littleton Website: www.ifoothills.org/school-carecamps/#camps

Details: Details will be posted online for the 2023 summer program in March.

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS

The Giggling Life Care Farm

Location: 14583 Cherry St., Thornton

Website: www.thegigglinglife.com/summer-farm-fun

Details: If your kids love animals you need to check out The Giggling Life Care Farm in Thornton for summer activities. The Giggling Life Care Farm is special for a lot of reasons, but the most important one is Kristi — the owner. She has a BS in psychology and a master’s in education, has studied life coaching for the last eight years, and is certified in Equine Assisted Coaching and Pet Therapy.

Highlands Ranch — Camp Backcountry

Location:  6005 Ron King Trail, Littleton

Website: hrcaonline.org/classes-campsactivities/camps/camp-backcountry

Details: Nestled into 8,200 acres of wildlife conservation property just south of C-470 on Santa Fe Drive, Camp Backcountry is the spot for a build-a-fort, hikejust-to-explore, and don’t-forget-yourbinoculars kind of summer for your kids. The Backcountry believes that children learn, grow, and thrive best when outdoors and immersed in nature. Our week-long, full-day outdoor camps support the needs of children by using a whole-child, experiential learning approach. From minicamps to leaders-in-training programs,

the camps are for ages 5-17.

Great Outdoors Summer Camp

Location: Miller Activity Complex — 1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy, Castle Rock

Website: www.crgov.com/3270/SummerCamps

Details: This regional park includes the Miller Activity Complex (MAC), Millhouse, Amphitheater, Challenge Hill, ziplines, Adventure Tower, Sky Trek, and adventure playground area as well as over ten miles of hiking and biking trails.  For ages 10-15.

Chatfield Stables Horse Camps

Location: 11500 N. Roxborough Park Road, Littleton

Website: www.chatfieldstables.com/ horse-camps.html

Details: Chatfield Stables is the longestrunning horse camp in the area. Every child has their own horse for the entire week. Kids get to lead, feed, water and work with their horses every day. Campers learn horse care, including grooming and bridling. They water and feed their horses, learn to groom them, and take care of them at the end of the day. We ride daily, whether in the arena or on the trail.

Community Sailing of Colorado

Locations: 4800 S. Dayton St., Greenwood

Village

Website: www.communitysailing.org

Details: Community Sailing of Colorado provides premier sailing programs (summer camps, adult classes, adaptive sailing,

and community partnership events) at Cherry Creek and Boulder reservoirs. The weeklong summer camps range from beginner through advanced sailing for youth ages 5-17. It’s a perfect fit for any adventurous spirit who loves the outdoors.

YMCA SUMMER PROGRAMS

At the YMCA of Metro Denver, our youth development philosophy is grounded in 150 years of lifting up kids and helping them reach their full potential. It’s a philosophy centered on two critical factors: creating a unique sense of belonging and always incorporating the pure fun and joy of childhood.

Camps include adventure camps, sports programs, art that focuses on ceramics, painting, drawing, digital media and more. To find camps in local communities, visit the website at https://bit.ly/3Kg6GYM. Summer camp programs are available in the following Denver metro cities:

• Arvada

• Aurora

• Broomfield

• Centennial

• Commerce City

• Denver

• Golden

• Lakewood

• Littleton

• Thornton

• Wheat Ridge

MAD SCIENTISTS

Kookalooz Space Playground: STEM

Summer Camp

Locations: 6805 W. 88th Ave., Westminster

Website: www.kookalooz.com/westminster-co/summer-camps/

Details: 5 different camps from the basics of space to engineering. Each camp is one week long. For ages 5-10.

Colorado Adventure Point

Location: 10455 W. 6th Ave., Suite 150, Lakewood

Website: https://coloradoadventurepoint. org/

Details: CAP’s STEM Camp isn’t your typical science camp. Our campers get to experiment with chemistry, physics and engineering through a variety of materials, experiments and challenges to meet their curiosities and skill level in our challenge by choice model. In addition to building engineering models and friendships, the campers get to enjoy our climbing wall, archery range and more — and learn the science behind these fun activities. Camps are available for ages 6-12.

Butterfly Pavilion

Location: 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster

Website: https://butterflies.org/

Details: Starting June 5 and running through Aug. 11, the Butterfly Pavilion hosts all the creepy crawlies and your children at camp. There are five themes, which repeat once and include spider week, junior zookeeper and survival stories, where kids can learn about how insects adapt to survive.

Mad Science

Locations: Multiple locations in the Denver metro area, including the Littleton area, Denver and Broomfield

Website: https://colorado.madscience.org/

Details: These camps are designed for ages 6 to 12, though sessions such as Red-Hot Robots and Advanced Robotics camps are more appropriate for ages 8 to 12. Instructors are mostly college students pursuing degrees in education or science and teachers off for the summer. Themes include chemistry, space science, forensics, engineering and more. Each camp is weeklong, though times can vary.

Air & Space Camp

Location: Wings Over the Rockies at 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver

Website: wingsmuseum.org/education/ camp/

Details: Ready for an aerospace adventure? At Wings Over the Rockies that’s exactly what kids ages 8 to 14 can expect in these week-long camps. The fun starts June 5 and goes on until Aug. 11, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

EMERGING ARTISTS

Center for the Arts: Summer in Color

Location: 31880 Rocky Village Dr., Evergreen

Website: https://evergreenarts.org/summercamp/

Details: Camps explore various media, from clay sculpting and wheel throwing, to pop art and mural painting, to the art of different cultures and the art of the masters. Several of our camps also incorporate outdoor components, including hikes, yoga, and opportunities for photography and eco-art projects. Let kids explore their creative side with imaginative and inspiring camps at CAE this summer. For ages 5-17.

Denver Art Museum

Location: 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver

Website: www.denverartmuseum.org/en/ summer-camps

Details: The camps at the Denver Art Museum get broken into three age groups: 5 to 6, 7 to 8, and 9 to 11. Overall, the themes remain the same — there are camps about art in nature, how to draw, learning about color and sculpture. Each camp runs from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and includes plenty of time in the museum to garner inspiration.

Craftsman & Apprentice

Location: 1335 E 22nd Ave., Denver

Website: craftsmanandapprentice.com/ pages/summer-2023

Details: Ages 5 to 11 can spend the summer creating worlds out of cardboard, paint, hot glue, ribbons, corks, buttons and more at this Denver kids’ crafting studio. Themes include toys, crafty critters, fiber arts and more.

ON THE STAGE

The Apollo Center Summer Camps

Location: 2655 Industrial Lane, Broomfield

Website: www.theapollocenter.com/ campdescriptions

Details: The Apollo Center offers a variety of skill-based camps for kids and adults alike. Aerial Performance Camps for kids

five-week sessions for ages 3–18.

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

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ages 5-17 years focus on learning aerial technique and choreography throughout the week which will culminate with a camp performance based on the camp theme.

Front Range Theatre Company Triple Threat Summer Camp

Locations: 15035 Performing Arts School, Parker

Website: www.frontrangetheatre.org/triplethreat-summer-camp.html

Details: Working with professional instructors with years of experience, your child will learn the three major elements of any stage performer: Voice, Dance and Acting. The camps are designed to challenge performers in the entire range of life in the theatre, including a live performance in a mainstage venue!

Audience of One Youth Theatre Camp

Location: Highlands Ranch

Website: www.AO1Theater.org

Details: Whether a student is looking to try out theater for the first time, polish skills or have fun with friends, the AO1 has one-totwo-week camps can work in the summer schedule. AO1’s summer programming includes kids’ productions for ages 5-12, workshops for ages 8-18, and a two-week intensive program for teenagers.

The Arvada Center

Location: 6901 Wadsworth Blvd. Arvada

Website: https://arvadacenter.org/

Details: If your kid is 5 to 12 and loves a bit of drama and/or art, the Arvada Center has a slew of full- and half-day camps available. The best and most economic way to sign up for camp is to do it in three- or four-week blocks, and the venue offers combinations of visual art, musical theater, drama and music.

Kent Denver Performing Arts Camps

Location: 4000 E. Quincy Ave., Englewood

Website: www.KentDenver.org

Details: Summer at Kent Denver School offers all children ages 4–18 the opportunity to experience innovative, creative, handson learning in the arts, athletics, our Tiny Farm Day Camp, academics, innovation and technology.

St. Lukes Performing Arts Camps

Location:  8817 S. Broadway, Highlands Ranch

Website: www.StLukesPAA.org

Details: From preschool age to high school students there are a large variety of summer camp shows planned in Highlands Ranch and Castle Rock areas. Registration is now open.

Castle Rock Dance Academy

Locations: 140 S. Wilcox St. Suite A, Castle Rock

Website: http://www.castlerockdanceacademy.com/

Details: At Castle Rock Dance Academy (CRDA), best friends are made, etiquette and self-discipline are taught, and students learn skills they can carry with them through life. The program offers weekly dance classes in

Bowlero

Locations: Multiple locations in Cherry Creek, Littleton and Lone Tree

Website: www.bowlero.com

Details: Fun for all skill levels, Bowlero’s modern spin on bowling is the perfect way to spend quality time with the kids. Celebrate every strike, spare and yes, even gutter balls, with the most famous lanes in the game and a delicious menu of classic American eats.

Golden Goal Sports Complex

Location: 2650 Alkire St., Golden

Website: www.goldengoalsc.com/summersoccer-camps

Details: Golden Goal offers spring break camps and summer camps for all ages from under 5 to high school.

Camp Urbie at Urban Air Adventure Park

Location: 15400 E. Briarwood Circle, Aurora

Website: https://bit.ly/3IuCQOO

Details: Let ‘em Fly for a whole week of play, in-park activities, snacks and more. Camp Urbie’s Adventure Camp is the best way to beat the summer heat and play in the best indoor playground in town. The weeklong camp is open to kids 7 years and up.

Gold Medal Athletic Camp

Location: Castle Rock Recreation Center

Website: https://www.crgov.com

Details: Athletes will participate in small- and large-group instruction, drills and games or scrimmages. We welcome beginner athletes to learn how to use proper mechanics and fundamentals of the sport and intermediate or advanced athletes who want to continue to grow their motor skills and skill in the sport. For ages 7-12.

Tigar Gymnastics Camps

Location: 4860 Van Gordon St. Unit B, Wheat Ridge

Website: www.TigarGymnastics.com

Details: A variety of programs at a variety of ages is available at the gymnastics center, including ninja classes and programs for older ages.

RMF Soccer Camp

Location: Aurora Sports Park at 19300 E. Colfax Ave., Aurora

Website: https://rmfsoccercampsusa. com/soccer-camp-denver/

Details: From July 17 to July 21, this prorun soccer camp will come to Colorado. It’s run by experienced Spanish UEFA coaches, and goes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Kids from 6 to 16 can sign up.

Aerial Cirque Over Denver

Location: 4605 Quebec St., Denver.

Website: https://aerialcirqueoverdenver.com/

Details: If your child is thinking of joining the circus, or just wants to bend, twist and soar through the air, this is the camp for them. Dates run from May 29 through August 14, and include morning and afternoon camps (9:30 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 3 p.m.) for ages 6 to 16.

LET’S GET MUSICAL

Maestro Music Institute

Location: 6478 Ward Road, Arvada

Website: maestromusicinstitute. com/2023-instrumental-summer-camp

Details: Instrumental Summer Camp is back this year covering a myriad of ensemble opportunities. We will be offering Rock Band, Orchestra, Choir/Theater, Piano ensemble and composition. Summer campers will have the opportunity to learn new instruments in addition to honing their skills on their primary instrument. Students will work in large and small ensemble groups and perform a variety of music at the end of the week.

Kidzrock Rock Band Camp

Location: 2842 S. Broadway, Englewood

Website: www.musicallifedenver.com/ summercamp

Cost: $319

Details: Rock Band Summer Camp teaches children ages 4 to 7 how to play in a rock band. Campers learn to play drums, electric guitar, keyboard and sing. On the final day, campers perform a short (adorable) concert for parents and family. In addition to rock band time, students get to make music-related arts and crafts, create a fantasy band identity, and play outdoor games at the park next to the school. No prior musical experience is required. No investment in gear is required.

OVERNIGHT CAMPS

Avid 4 Adventure

Locations: Various spots

Website: https://avid4.com/summercamps

Details: For two weeks kids get to bask in nature, away from their parent, at either Camp Windy Peak near Bailey, or Camp Blue Sky near Evergreen. The kids sleep in cabins and build their skill sets in nature and with outdoor sport activities.

Cheley Colorado Camps

Location: Cheley Colorado Camps at 3960 Fish Creek Road, Estes Park.

Website: https://www.cheley.com/

Details: If your kid is 9 to 17, send them off to a 27-day overnight camp in Estes Park. Full term is June 13 to August 6, or chose a half term from June 13 to July 9, or July 11 to Aug. 6. Activities include horseback riding, water sports, art and plenty of outdoor adventure.

Camp Granite Lake

Locations: 11902 Camp Eden Road, Golden

Website: https://www.campgranitelake.com/

Details: Located in the mountains about an hour from Denver, the camp covers 135 acres including a private lake. It’s a co-ed camp for grades second to ninth. Choose from two sessions, either June 19 through July 8, or July 10 through July 29. There are also minicamp options for grades 1st through 4th, covering the week of July 31 or Aug. 7.

In a word

It seems that over the last two years, maybe more, the words “a ordability” and “equity” are trigger words for some.

It seems like when anyone says a ordable housing is being planned for an area of the Denver metro area – It must mean ghetto because residents speak out against it and ght to stop it. When I hear about an a ordable housing or apartment project, I am usually in favor of it, especially in areas of Arapahoe and Douglas counties. I do not think this housing is going to attract criminals and bad people. Let’s face it, the idea of “a ordable” right now doesn’t mean the neighborhood is going to become trash.

For many of those calling these plan a recipe for turning neighborhoods into the ghetto, another term I can’t say I am fond of, they should look at the price tag.

In all reality, the word “a ordable” likely means starter housing for young couples growing their income status year by year. It is likely meant for teachers how are struggling to live and work in the same communities. ese are not bad people. ese are people I would happily be neighbors with.

Unfortunately, somewhere along the way, the word “a ordable” gained an unfair stigma that will continue to prevent progress.

As homes stay out of reach for the common, hardworking families — the Denver metro area will su er. It will su er because those hard-working, fundamental families that make an economy and community run — will leave.

ey will go somewhere a ordable, turn that community into a thriving area and we will lose here in our hometown.

To those who cringe when they hear about a project that is aimed at “a ordable housing” — I say do not get hung up on the word. Instead, read the plans, go with an open mind and look at what rent and sale prices will be and ask yourself if it will attract the bad neighbors that some seem to be afraid of.

Now, on to the second word that has gained a lot of attention in recent years — “equity.” Now, I get it. e media has certainly made that a true talking point and whatever side of the debate you are on — the word “equity” is coming up a lot.

e bottom line is, equity policies in schools, government and business are nothing new. ey have been around for as long as I have been alive. ey do have value in our society.

I just hate that any time an organization is looking at equity policies, we are starting to see the word as something bad, something that will change our way of lives.

Just like an a ordable housing, I encourage all to not stop at the word, but consider the policy or discussion being had. Don’t listen to the noise and nonsense generated on social media. Read them, form an opinion and have a true, useful debate and discussion.

After reading, it may very well be the language is too much and you want to have more discussion to tone it down. at is OK.

However, after looking past the word “equity” and giving a true, fair read to any proposal — try to nd common ground.

elma Grimes is the south metro editor for Colorado Community Media.

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher

lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com

MICHAEL DE YOANNA Editor-in-Chief michael@coloradocommunitymedia.com

THELMA GRIMES South Metro Editor tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com

TAYLER SHAW Community Editor tshaw@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Housing needs attention I commend you on your in-depth look at the housing crisis with your series, “ e Long Way Home.” Your reporting shined a big light on the complexity of the situation: local government land use policies; citizen opposition; inequities of all kinds; economics and more.

As a board member of Littleton’s public housing authority, South Metro Housing Options, I know rsthand the challenges providing housing for people of all incomes,

ages and abilities. High costs and lack of land are tremendous obstacles. We are fortunate that elected leaders, nonpro ts, housing authorities and housing advocates are joining forces to work on increasing the housing supply. As you highlight, it took us several years to get in this mess; it will take a long time to get out of it.

Patricia Cronenberger Littleton

Know before saying ‘no’

There is an old saying, “If you don’t ask, you don’t get” or, “If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.” Many times these are associated with salespeople who stopped short of asking their prospect for the order or fail to ask for critical information or an immediate next step. However, these sayings hold true for all of us.

For some, asking comes very naturally. We understand the consequences of not asking so we are always bold enough to speak up, knowing that fortune favors the bold. en there are others of us who have a deeply rooted fear of rejection so asking for something, anything requires us to summon our courage before breaking out into a cold sweat while meekly and nervously uttering out our question.

ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN FRANKS Production Manager efranks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ere is also something else at play here when it comes to hearing the word “no,” or being refused a request. Some people are so tired and burnt out that the word “no” has become their rst response to everything. Even the simplest of asks or tasks is met with resistance. e smallest requests are seen as monumental hills to climb. e thinking is that the person making such a request clearly has no idea just how much work this is going to require or how di cult it will be.

Saying “no” for some folks has become an art form, they can say “no” and still have the person who asked walk away feeling good. Others may subscribe to the philosophy of saying “no” to everything as fast as possible so others will stop asking them for anything. e rst word out of their mouth is literally always “no.”

Here’s the thing, sometimes we get so con-

SEE NORTON, P13

Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Citizen. We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Email letters to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Deadline Wed. for the following week’s paper.

Thelma Grimes

Success is achievable … together

Last month we celebrated Black History Month and as the rst African American commissioner in Arapahoe County, it is important to me to take stock of not only the achievements and progress we’ve made in becoming a more inclusive and diverse community, but also the myriad of work that lies ahead.

e same goes for the work of my fellow county commissioners and me. Our goal is for Arapahoe County to be the best place in Colorado to live, work and raise a family. And while it’s valuable to re ect on our accomplishments in achieving this goal, it’s imperative

NORTON

ditioned to saying “no” that it really has become our rst response instead of rst taking the time to learn more, so we know what it is that we are really saying “no” to or refusing to do. I do believe in saying “no” to more of the things we shouldn’t be doing so that we can say “yes” to more of the things we should or could be doing. However, not at the expense of missing an opportunity to get done what needs to get done.

If you are leading a team, you probably wouldn’t want them to stop coming to you with questions. If you are a part of a team, you also wouldn’t want to be left out of opportunities to collaborate and problem solve. And any parent certainly wouldn’t want their child to stop coming to them with questions or requests, instead, just taking actions into their own hands and dealing with the consequences later. When the “no” monster inside of us is unleashed, we invite

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that we also identify the challenges and barriers we face in reaching this goal. But make no mistake, it is achievable.

First, let’s focus on why Arapahoe County is so special and the successes we’ve had. We can con dently boast a unique diversity of landscapes, industries, recreation and business opportunities, exceptional schools, strong economic growth and thriving communities. More than 655,000 residents call Arapahoe County home, making it the third largest County in Colorado. By 2030, the County will be home to 800,000 residents, surpassing the population of Denver and El Paso.

As my fellow commissioners and I noted on our Telephone Town Hall in January, our County has done an extraordinary job of managing our funds and using them wisely and e ciently. However, despite a long

contempt and disharmony in any relationship.

Years ago, I had a coworker named Frank. Frank would say “no” to everything at rst. But not for the reasons mentioned above or that you might be thinking. He taught me one of the greatest lessons of my life when it came to decision-making relative to both the person asking for something and the person being asked. He would say “no” if the request wasn’t supported with the “why.” Or Frank would say “no” if the person asking didn’t really understand everything involved in what they were asking for.

What Frank taught me and I hope to pass along to you is this: Before saying “no,” take the time to ask more questions and get as much detail as possible before making your decision. And before you ask for anything, know the “why” behind your request, and what it is you are really asking the other person or team to do for you.

Are you saying “no” simply out of habit? Is the “no” monster hurting your relationships at home or at work? Do you understand the

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record of responsible budget management and good scal stewardship, current revenues coupled with this anticipated growth will make it challenging for the County to continue meeting the needs of our residents. Essential services that the County provides – public safety, human services, mental health programs and road maintenance –are at risk. ese are complex issues that we’ve collectively identi ed as priorities and that we are committed to addressing, in partnership with County sta and residents.

We all are very aware that families across Colorado and the U.S. are currently faced with rising in ation and an uncertain economy, and we are forced to make the most of every dollar. County government is no di erent. We pursue e ciencies, innovations and cost-savings with our available resources. But the reality

concept of including your “why” behind your request? I would love to hear your story at gotonorton@ gmail.com, and when we can take the time to know before we say “no,” it really will be a better than good life.

is that we will be unable to meet the needs of our growing community without making a concerted e ort to stabilize our funding sources and modernize our nances.

Again, make no mistake, it is achievable…together.

In the coming weeks and months, your elected leaders look forward to connecting with you as we take a thoughtful approach to this journey ahead. Look for future telephone town hall events at www.arapahoegov.com/townhall, follow us on social media, or subscribe to e County Line newsletter to stay informed and get involved.

Leslie Summey is on the Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners representing District 4, which includes the unincorporated area in north Arapahoe County and portions of the City of Aurora.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator of individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries.

Make-A-Wish Colorado alumni, volunteers celebrate its 40th anniversary

BY CORINNE WESTEMAN CWESTEMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

2023 has already been a big year for Make-A-Wish.

Wish Week fundraisers have been in full swing at local schools this winter, and basketball legend Michael Jordan donated $10 million — the largest individual donation ever — to the national organization last month. And spring 2023 could be even bigger.

Make-A-Wish Colorado celebrates its 40th anniversary this year and is hosting an anniversary celebration and fundraiser in April in Denver. Since it started, Make-A-Wish Colorado has granted more than 6,000 wishes for children with critical illnesses as a way of giving them hope and something to look forward to during their treatment.

Golden’s Ben Bontrager, 10, went to Hawaii for his wish last spring. He was diagnosed in early 2020 with Burkitt’s lymphoma and was sick for almost a year, with his mom Sarah saying, “We almost lost him a couple times.”

Ben, who’s now in remission, said going to Hawaii was “the rst thing idea that popped in my head,” because he wanted to get out and do something fun.

“I was sick of being home,” he continued.

Now, Ben and his family are becoming Make-A-Wish ambassadors so that they can help other families through the same process.

Dad Je Bontrager said Ben’s wish was a “bright spot” to think about during those long days at the hospital, adding, “ e thought that (MakeA-Wish) has done it over and over for people, it’s really pretty amazing.”

For Jennifer

Joan Mazak has been the proverbial fairy godmother for thousands of Colorado children after she founded the organization in 1983. She started it in honor of her daughter, Jennifer, who died at 7 years old of a liver disease.

Mazak recalled how, about a week before Jennifer’s death, she was granted an uno cial wish to meet local radio mascot KIMN Chicken. He stopped by the family’s house, walking around the entire property hand-in-hand with Jennifer. Many of the neighborhood children stopped by to see KIMN Chicken, but he was focused on making Jennifer feel special.

“It was great for her to be able to have that,” Mazak said.

After Jennifer’s death, Mazak used funds that people had raised for a liver donation to start Make-A-Wish

Colorado. ere were only three other chapters in the country and no national organization yet, she said. e local chapter was all volunteers working out of their homes, helping to create memories for children who needed them. Mazak said the very rst wish was to catch a sh, so they set up a shing trip at Dillon Reservoir.

Longtime volunteer Gary Aboussie recalled wishes to meet the pope and the Broncos. One of his favorite stories was sending a guitar to Bruce Springsteen to sign, him keeping that one, and sending back his own guitar instead with a special message. Mazak said of wishes: “ ey come in all shapes and sizes. ere are so many logistics to putting together a single wish. It’s di erent for every single family.”

Ben Bontrager of Golden had his wish to visit Hawaii granted in spring 2022. Ben, now 10, was diagnosed with Burkitt’s lymphoma in early 2020 but is now in remission.

Jack Rodell of Castle Rock had his wish to be a Colorado Avalanche player granted in November 2022. Jack, now 8, was diagnosed with leukemia but has been in remission for two years. COURTESY PHOTOS

WISHES

About 20 years ago, Make-A-Wish Colorado started partnering with local schools for Wish Week fundraisers. Mazak said it’s been a winwin situation, as it helps instill philanthropy in the students and raises money for their sick peers. Plus, she always loves seeing schools’ creative fundraising methods, like shaving teachers’ heads or taping their principals to the wall.

While nancial contributions are needed, so are volunteers.

Aboussie described how meeting Make-A-Wish children and their families “touches your mind and heart.” So, he works to help however he can — whether that’s serving on the board of directors or speaking at events.

“(Volunteering) shows you how much more there is to do,” he said. “… We can’t stop the problems, but we can ease the e orts and give the

child something to dream about when they’re going through the possibly the most di cult time of their life.”

Both Aboussie and Mazak stressed how much these children and their families need “a sense that there will be a better tomorrow,” as Aboussie described it. ey said these children also need to feel normal after feeling di erent during their formative years.

Hope and normalcy

Castle Rock’s Jack Rodell, 8, might be a little shy, except when it comes to talking about the best day of his life.

On Nov. 14, Jack was the guest of honor at a Colorado Avalanche game. He described the entire day in detail, saying he met the players, got his own jersey and more.

Jack, who wants to be a professional hockey player when he grows up, was diagnosed with leukemia but has been in remission for two years. His wish was delayed because of COVID-19.

Ballroom at 4242 Wynkoop St.

Over the past few years, he’s represented Make-A-Wish Colorado at fundraising events, and he and his family are now becoming wish ambassadors, like the Bontragers.

“When your kid is diagnosed with cancer, and you just live appointment to appointment, it’s very lonely,” his mom Krystalyn said. “… In his head, he just feels di erent. … It’s nice to see other people celebrate him, and it’s something he’ll remember for the rest of his life.”

at’s something Denver’s Austen Swinton can con rm.

Swinton, who’s graduating from the University of Colorado-Boulder this spring, was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure as a child and eventually received a kidney transplant. For her wish, she met singer and actress Demi Lovato at a July 2009 concert.

After the two met backstage, Lovato pulled Swinton on stage and asked her to sing “ is Is Me” for the crowd. Swinton said she didn’t have stage fright at all, and Lovato sang with her.

e two reunited last year when Swinton spoke at World Wish Day in California where Lovato was being honored for helping Make-AWish.

Swinton, now 23, said her experiences with Make-A-Wish helped brighten her life when she needed it most.

“Looking back at how much I was going through at that age — I was only 10 or 11 when I was on dialysis — I was missing out on some of those peak childhood moments,” she continued. “ … Everyone says how much a wish impacts a child. You don’t truly know until you’re living that experience.”

Having a wish granted is the best day in a child’s life, Jack described, and now he’s hoping he can help other children as an ambassador, paying forward all the kindness he received.

“People really helped me, and I want to help other people so they feel the same way,” Jack said. “I felt special. I felt really happy. … I want other kids to feel happy.”

A party with a purpose. Guests will enjoy great food, drinks, and country music, while raising crucial funds to grant wishes for Colorado children with critical ill-

nesses. Peyton Manning will be honored as a Wish Hero for his longtime support of the organization. For more information, visit wishes2023.givesmart.com.

Austen Swinton of Denver, left, reunites with singer Demi Lovato at World Wish Day in spring 2022. Swinton had end-stage renal failure as a child and had her wish to meet Lovato granted in 2009.

Make-A-Wish Colorado founder Joan Mazak started the organization 40 years ago, and it has now granted more than 6,000 wishes for children with critical illnesses. Mazak said the wishes over the years have ranged from catching a fish to visiting Disneyland. COURTESY PHOTOS

Make-A-Wish Colorado founder

Music is all around in local venues

Concerts bring wide range to area audiences

BY SONYA ELLINGBOE SELLINGBOE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A beautiful concert, “Shakespeare in Love,” conducted by Rene Knetsch, presented by the Parker Symphony Orchestra at the PACE Center on Feb. 24, led me to thinking about how rich we are with music in this south Denver suburban area ... Parker has events scheduled on many weekends, including Jimmy Bu ett’s “Escape to Margaritaville” June 23 to July 16.

As a longtime Littleton resident, I can remember a smaller start-up by cellist Jurgen de Lemos of the Littleton Symphony Orchestra which once tted onto Town Hall Arts Center’s modest stage and soon needed more space ... It now performs at the welldesigned Littleton United Methodist Church, 5894 S. Datura St., and has a concert called “Out Like A Lion” scheduled at 7:30 p.m. March 22, featuring Dvorak Symphony #8 in G major, op 88. Also on the program: Hansen Jazz Violin Concerto, performed by Claude Sim, associate concertmaster of the Colorado Symphony. e Littleton orchestra’s new conductor, Catherine Sailer, will lead into the 39th season.

“Appalachian Spring” will follow on May 19 ...

A few years after the launch of

Englewood and Littleton over the years and had a somewhat rocky time recently, but has managed some special programming for children as well as general public and holiday concerts. “Tamiko and the Magic Violin” is scheduled at 11 a.m. April 14 at Hope United Methodist Church, 5101 S. Dayton St. And, looking forward: on July 3, “Stars and Stripes Forever” at 8 p.m. at Breckenridge Brewery — with reworks! I think this one involves picnics on the green. Watch for more information as the weather warms up. Sounds particularly nice with the present

We will inquire soon. South Suburban Parks and Recreation District will oversee Hudson Gardens’ operations following the retirement of the director there.

Organizations around the metro area are showing more signs of life after the di cult stretch for all involved with events that involve gatherings ... My computer reports new bits of info here and there — now and then ... I was alarmed to see information about another possible epidemic hovering ... Parker, Lone Tree and Castle Rock will probably all host Independence

Day events as well. We’ll watch for world coming back to life after a long

(I see that some organizations are requiring masks and it will probably be a good idea to carry one with you, I’d imagine — or at least several in the car.)

Also ahead at PACE on March 18: “John Tesh: Big Band Live!” and March 24 “Friday Night Jazz with the CJRO: Ladies of Jazz.” Colorado Brass and Colorado Wind Ensemble will team up for a concert and the McTeggart Irish Step Dancers will perform at Bemis Library in Littleton at 2:45 on March 19. Enjoy!

A number of orchestras are active in the south metro Denver area, bringing classical music to appreciative audiences. SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE

Thu 3/16

Teague Starbuck @ 5pm

The Pint Room, 2620 W Belleview Ave, Lit‐tleton

Mon 3/20

Crestone Peak Ages 13-14 - 2023

League Session #2 @ 3:30pm / $300

Mar 20th - Apr 29th

Elevation Volleyball Club, 12987 E Adam Aircraft Drive, Englewood. 720-524-4136

Torreys Peak Ages 8-11 - 2023

League Session #2 @ 3:30pm / $300

Mar 20th - Apr 29th

Elevation Volleyball Club, 12987 E Adam Aircraft Drive, Englewood. 720-524-4136

Modern Swing Mondays @ 5pm / $10

Stampede, 2430 South Havana, Aurora

The Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band @ 7pm Swallow Hill, 71 E Yale Ave, Den‐ver

Fri 3/17

Vagabon @ 7pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood

Vamonos Pest/Mobro: Mobro at Brewability Lab @ 5pm Brewability Lab, 3445 S Broadway, Englewood

Tue 3/21

Zoology Comparative Anatomy Dissections @ 7am / $75

Mar 21st - Mar 23rd

Valor Christian High School - Academic Building, 3775 Grace Blvd., Highlands Ranch. 303-471-3000

The Greatest Game Ever Played (AM Session) @ 8am / Free

Mar 21st - Mar 22nd

Valor Athletic Building, 3775 Grace Blvd, Highlands Ranch. 303-471-3000

Black Market Translation @ 6pm D3 Arts, 3614 Morrison Rd, Denver

Weyes Blood @ 7pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood

Sat 3/18

Justin Willman: Pace Center @ 3pm Pace Center, Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker

Dear Marsha,: St Paddy's with DM and her Freaky Band @ 7pm Toley’s on the Creek, 16728 E Smoky Hill Rd Suite 11C, Centen‐nial

5th Annual ฀ShamROCK

Stampede for PTSD ฀ @ 9am / Free-$35 500 Fairgrounds Road, Castle Rock

6 Million Dollar Band @ 6pm Pindustry, 7939 E Arapahoe Rd, Centen‐nial

Jay_Martin @ 6:30pm Rocker Spirits, 5587 S Hill St, Littleton

Jill Tasei: Comedy Show @ 5:30pm BS Comedy Club, 207 E Wolfens‐berger Rd, Castle Rock

Tei Shi @ 7pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

EL FANTASMA - GERARDO DIAZ @ 7:30pm / $70

Stampede, 2430 South Havana, Aurora

Sun 3/19

The Church @ 7pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood

Wed 3/22

Ladies Night @ 5pm / $10

Stampede, 2430 South Havana, Aurora

Rayland Baxter @ 6pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

DJ Rockstar Aaron: Forbidden Bingo at 'Bout Time Pub & Grub @ 7pm Bout Time Pub & Grub, 3580 S Platte River Dr A, Sheridan

Charles Ellsworth @ Englewood Tavern @ 6pm

The Englewood Tavern, 4386 S Broadway, Englewood

Thu 3/23

Pinback @ 7pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

powered by

Paul Taylor Dance coming to Denver

he Newman Center at the University of Denver o ers a season of innovative arts performances including a visit by the Paul Taylor Dance Company on at 7:30 p.m. on March 27. e New York-based Taylor company is headed by Michael Novak, Taylor’s chosen successor, since Taylor’s death in 1984. e company was originally formed in 1954. Dancers associated: Merce Cunningham, Martha Graham, George Balanchine. e audience will see Taylor’s signature work, “Esplanade,” as well as Larry Keigwin’s “Rush Hour.” Tickets at the Newnan Center Box O ce: 303-871-7720 or newmancenterpresents.com.

Voices West

“Starry, Starry Night” is the title for the upcoming Voices West concerts in Littleton at 7:30 p.m. on March 18 at Littleton United Methodist Church, 5894 S. Datura St., Littleton, and 2 p.m. on March 19 at St. Timothy Episcopal Church, 1401 E. Dry Creek Road, Centennial. Tickets at the door. is is the 45th season for the choral group that started as e Littleton Chorale, with a group from Littleton’s Friends of the Library/ Museum.

PACE Center

“Friday Night Jazz with the CJRO: Ladies of Jazz” at 7:30 on March 24 at the PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker. 303-805-6800, parkerarts.org.

Colorado history

Columbine Genealogical and Historical Society will meet at 1 p.m. on March 14 to hear Colorado author Randi Samuelson-Brown talk about “ e Bad Old Days of Colorado.” e program will be at e Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 8545 E. Dry Creek Road, Centennial. Guests and new members welcomed. Also available on Zoom. e talk will be on the establishment of Denver, discovery of gold, Colorado during the Civil War, the Confederate Gold eld Plot and other dubious happenings. Presenter is Dina Carson, author and lecturer. All are welcome. Free.

Jazz and art

“Blind Visionaries” showcases a

musical performance with original jazz by the Daniel Kelly Trio and New York’s Seeing With Photography Collective, a group of visually impaired and sighted photographers, who create colorful, thoughtprovoking visual art through “Light Painting.” It will be held at 7:30 p.m. on April 21 at Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, Lakewood. Tickets start at $25 and are available online: Lakewood.org/ Exhibitions.

Lone Tree

Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree, has “Tunes on the Terrace” tickets available for four performances. Tickets cost $45 for reserved seating, $40 for lawn seating and $80 for Pink Martini Premium Seats; $70 for Standard seating Front Row seating is $50. See lonetreeartscenter.org.

Art in Littleton

“Romance is in the Air” is the current Littleton Fine Arts Guild exhibit at Town Hall Arts Center, 2450 W. Main St., Littleton. Winners are: Allen Voss, Judith Bennett, Peggy Dietz, Bob Ellert, Carl Paulson and Karen Shaw. See townhallartscenter. org.

On stage Town Hall Arts Center: “La Cage Aux Folles” plays April 7-30 at Town Hall Arts Center, 2450 W. Main St., Littleton. See townhallartscenter. org.

Garden club

e next Littleton Garden Club meeting will be the rst Wednesday in April, April 5, at 6 p.m. at the Littleton Public Schools Education Services Center, 5776 S. Crocker St., Littleton. New members and guests are welcome. ere will probably be a speaker. Leo Ortiz is the new president. Members learned of the death of longtime member Barbara Boardman. Donations in her name can be made to the Barbara Hyde Boardman Endowment for the Master Gardener Program at Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Service.

Ballet Ariel

Ballet Ariel will perform “Firebird” at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on April 8 at Elaine Wolf eatre at the JCC, 350 S. Dahlia St.; and 7:30 p.m. April 29 and 2 p.m. April 3 at Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, Lakewood. Tickets: $20-$30. 303-2829828, balletariel.org.

Larry Keigwin’s “Rush Hour” will be performed by the Paul Taylor Dance Company on March 27 at the University of Denver’s Newman Center. PHOTO BY WHITNEY BROWNE

SONYA’S SAMPLER

Denver Jewish Film Festival adds new voices

COMING

ATTRACTIONS

Th ere’s nothing wrong with taking a new approach to a beloved event — that’s how new perspectives and stories get added to familiar ones. In his second year as general manager of the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center, Rich Cowden decided to do just that in preparation for annual Denver Jewish Film Festival .

“I used the first year as a listening tour and one of the things that came up during the process was that we could add some new elements to the festival without throwing away the things that worked so well,” he explained. “We wanted some space for more diversity in the line-up and started looking at how we select films every year.”

To inject new viewpoints into the festival, Cowden changed how films were selected, bringing in younger people to share the stories that connected with them and made it easier for members of the pre-screening and film selection committees to work through the more than 300 submissions the festival receives every year.

“We also opened a second space at the center for film screenings, so we can show more films,” he said. “What people will find this year is we’re making inroads into a more diverse portfolio of films.”

This year’s festival, which is presented by The Chotin Foundation and runs from March 11 through March 19 at the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center , 350 S. Dahlia St. in Denver, reflects those efforts to expand the frame - there are 39 Israeli and Jewish films, including nine shorts and one television mini-series, hailing from 14 countries. For those who can’t attend in person, films will be streaming on-demand from March 20 through March 29.

With so many entries, there are truly options for all to enjoy, but one that Cowden particularly cited is the closing night feature, “The Man in the Basement,” a psychological thriller based on a true story, about a French couple whose cellar is rented out to an anti-Semitic conspiracy theorist.

As an organization that never shies away from fostering conversation, the festival will also screen “Blue Box,” a documentary about efforts to secure land in Palestine.

It is just one of the films that will have an audience discussion afterwards, so viewers can share their thoughts and get more information on the topics the film delves into.

“I want people who may think a festival like this is not for them to take a chance and have conversations around the films, the themes and ideas they present, and build a conversation around Jewish culture that is healthy, tolerant and

filled with compassion,” Cowden said. “I really believe in the power of art to build bridges where everyone is trying to build walls. These films then become a conduit for connection between people, and that’s ultimately why we do this.”

To learn more about the films and purchase tickets, visit https:// djff.eventive.org/welcome.

Spring into a new season with the LSO

The Lakewood Symphony Orchestra is welcoming spring with the latest entry in its Season of Favorites with a performance of some beautiful music. The performance will be at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 9 at the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway.

Some of the music the symphony will be performing include Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Coronation March,” followed by music from the ballet “Coppélia,” a story that predates Pinnochio by 13 years but follows a similar storyline. The show will also feature Brahms’ “Symphony No. 2 in D major.”

For more information and tickets, visit www.lakewoodsymphony. org.

Pictures worth more than a thousand words at MOP Denver

The Month of Photography Denver , which runs through Friday, March 31, allows the work of photographers of all skill levels and interests the opportunity to showcase their talents. The biennial event is celebrated by galleries and arts organizations all over the state

One of the most inspiring events in this year’s lineup is the free Night Lights Denver, which will be held at the Daniels & Fisher Clocktower, 1601 Arapahoe St. in Denver. The Colorado Photographic Arts Center (CPAC) will be digitally projecting images on the building to celebrate the month. For a full list of events and participating locations, visit https://denvermop. org/.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — The Lagoons at the Bluebird Theater

Sometimes you just need something smooth to get you through the day. The music multi-instrumentalist brothers Ryan and Joey Selan make as The Lagoons fulfill the brief beautifully. Over their three EPs and two albums (including last year’s “Daybreak”), the duo has fine-tuned a vibey electronic take on yacht and surf rock that can just carry you away to somewhere warmer if you let it.

In support of the record, The Lagoons will be stopping by the Bluebird Theater , 3317 E. Colfax Ave. in Denver, at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 15. They’ll be joined by opener Jelly Ellington. Get tickets at www.bluebirdtheater.net.

PRE SENTS

TWO A-LIST COMEDIANS FOR ONE LOW PRICE

Chosen for Fest" at Detroit Laugh Fest

NBC's Last Comic Standing and voted "Best in , eclectic mid-westerner

AJ Finney’s personal stream-of-consciousness-storytelling will remind you of the joy of growing up, family, friends, and the beauty of the strange world we live in.

FEATURE MITCH JONES

Podcaster, aspiring voice actor and avid pop culture enthusiast Mitch Jones has been doing comedy since 2010 but he's been clowning since day one!

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@ hotmail.com.

Clarke Reader

COVID pushed Colorado nonprofits to their limits

BY MONTE WHALEY THE COLORADO SUN

Colorado nonpro ts took a beating during the COVID-19 pandemic, bleeding volunteers and employees who were either forced to stay home or were terri ed of leaving their homes for fear they would get infected by the virus.

“We had older and retired volunteers who had to stay home because they were the most vulnerable to the virus,” said Dayna Scott, executive director of Broom eld FISH, a nonpro t providing help with food and housing. “ ere were real fears about death. No one knew what was going to happen day to day.”

Local food banks that help feed and clothe low-income and homeless people were hit especially hard. Grocery store shelves emptied almost overnight and businesses and food banks, including FISH, shuttered for more than a year. Nonpro ts had to pivot, sometimes in 24 hours, to hand out groceries and other donated staples to clients driving through their parking lots. e rapid turnaround needed to keep things running at FISH burned out many sta members, Scott said. “For some people it was the breaking point. e turnover was brutal.”

Scott said she and her remaining sta stayed clear-eyed about FISH’s mission. ey continued to help residents with rental and other nancial assistance and distributed food to families. In 2022, 12,553 people were served, up from 12,190 in 2021 and about 12,000 in 2020 a big jump from the 7,057 helped in 2018.

“We knew what we had to do,” said Scott, who shares her narrow o ce with a sleepy dog named Sami.

Scott manages a $6.6 million budget, seven paid sta ers and 30 community partnerships while bringing in corporate donors and steering clients to legal and housing help. Feeding families is a top priority for Scott and her sta , and in 2021, FISH distributed 1.5 million pounds of food to hungry people in Broom eld.

She brushes o the notion that she could earn a heftier paycheck if she used her skills for a big business. “I was never a corporate person,” Scott said. “I like to think I do more good by keeping 100 people from starving to death at the end of the day.”

State and local nonpro t o cials say they don’t know exactly how many sta members and volunteers they lost during the worst of the COVID pandemic. Marc Cowell, executive director of Outreach United Resource Center in Longmont, said although few of his peers left during COVID, there is little doubt COVID bludgeoned the nonpro t.

“I can state that COVID-19 did take a very heavy toll on myself and most of my colleagues,” he said.

To ght burnout during and after the worst of the pandemic, the OUR Center stressed a work-life balance to allow sta ers plenty of time to get away and be with friends and family, Cowell said.

“ at goes a long way in helping retain not only executives but managers, and front-line personnel,” said Cowell, who heads OUR Center’s e orts to help people in the St. Vrain Valley get basic services like food and to help pay the rent.

Cowell typically logs more than 50 hours a week as executive director, but takes time in the spring to indulge in one of his passions: coaching baseball at Holy Family High School in Broom eld. Coaching helps restore his energy for his full-time job. “It’s nice to be able to take multiple days o at di erent times throughout the year to recharge my batteries.”

He said the state’s nonpro t sta ers took COVID’s best shot and stubbornly bounced back to deliver goods and services to friends and neighbors hit hard by the virus.

“At the end of the day it is about our mission and helping the community that keeps us coming back,” Cowell said.

gets a steady paycheck he depends on weekly visits to FISH to keep his own kitchen stocked.

“I am glad FISH is here, thank God. What they do is incredible,” Wallace said in January. “ ey help people like me out but they don’t make me feel bad about it. I don’t know what this community would do without them.”

Now aid groups are preparing the loss of pandemic-related support e long and uncertain days and nights fueled by fears of the pandemic are mostly over for Scott and other nonpro t leaders. But now the state’s 20,000 nonpro ts face an even taller task of bridging the gap left by vanishing pandemic-era federal and state funds for shelter and food, said Paul Lhevine, president and CEO of the Colorado Nonpro t Association.

Colorado’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which distributed more than $300 million to 36,000 households, is ending this year, nonpro t directors say. Emergency allotments of Colorado Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, are also ending this month.

“ e work in the nonpro t sector is critical now more than ever,” Lhevine said. “ ere are gaps that remain to be lled.”

$5,001-$10,000 $10,001-$50,000 $50,001-$100,000 $100,001 +

Jobless for a year, Broom eld resident Dave Wallace pushes a shopping cart through the narrow aisles of FISH’s 12,500-square-foot marketplace for staples like bread, butter, fresh fruit and vegetables. Almost all the items are donated by local grocery stores and businesses. Wallace is looking for work in the restaurant industry, but until he

Broom eld FISH was started 60 years ago in a church basement by six women who wanted to provide food and clothing to the city’s poor, Scott said.

Women volunteers have always been the prime drivers behind many nonpro ts, but the tendency to pay them less is a main reason

A box of socks at a Feb. 16 celebration for Sock It To ‘Em, a nonprofit that provides socks to homeless people.

PHOTO BY TAYLER SHAW

Leaders stayed, money did not

NONPROFITS

why nonpro t executives aren’t compensated as well as their for-pro t business counterparts, Lhevine said. e overall trend toward paying men more in executive slots is also mirrored in the nonpro t world, he said.

For every dollar that a male executive director makes, a female executive director makes 82 cents, according to the Colorado Nonpro t Association’s 2021 salary survey. On average, female executives collect a yearly $111,152 salary while male executives pull in $132,227, according to the survey.

Scott makes about $100,000, only a fraction of what someone is paid for comparable work in a corporation, she said.

Lhevine said compensation for nonpro t leaders was a trend set decades ago.

“Most nonpro ts were created at a place and time on the backs of volunteers and driven by women,” Lhevine said. “ is is a major issue and we have to do a better job of nding a way to pay professionals a fair wage.”

e estimated total pay for an executive director for a business in Denver is $240,568, according to the employment website Glassdoor. e median pay for a CEO in Denver is $404,153.

e association’s survey states that many nonpro ts o er employees bonuses and ex time schedules and are generous with time o to compensate for long work hours. Some provided bonuses to employees to acknowledge their work during COVID-19, the survey reported. Most were 3% or less of the employee’s salary.

Nonpro ts greatly bene t from a workforce that will not back down from a challenge, including entering the post-COVID era, Lhevine said.

“Nonpro ts are mission-driven,” he said. “ e people who work there are not going to back down, even now. Nonpro ts are lled with people who have a passion for their work and they have a need to address the needs of their community.”

e Colorado Family Resource Center Association — which includes nonpro ts like FISH — only lost about 20% of its member executive directors, said Scott, who has been with FISH for nearly eight years and is not surprised at the lack of turnover among nonpro t leaders. is is low turnover considering the responsibilities of running a nonpro t during a major pandemic, she said.

But Scott is not surprised that so many local directors stuck around.

“We love the mission, and now it’s a new one,” she said. “We will have to scramble to get donations and other help for our organizations now that these other programs are waning.”

Alice Sueltenfuss said her job as executive director of Hope for Longmont, which provides shelter and other aid for people who are homeless, is devoted to the constant chase for funding.

“In the nonpro t world, it’s all about grants, corporate sponsors and the amounts given by donors,” Sueltenfuss said via email. “Fund-

raising helps, of course, but recurring donors help nonpro ts the most.”

Terrapin, a marijuana dispensary in Longmont, is one of Hope’s most reliable donors, giving $10,000 a year to the nonpro t. Terrapin spokesman Peter Marcus said via email that Hope is one of several nonprofits that fall into the company’s various corporate responsibility goals.

“Homelessness is one factor that can result from a cycle created through disproportionate cannabis prohibition and incarceration,” Marcus said. “Hope ts nicely with our mission to end the war on drugs and make whole those who were harmed.”

Sueltenfuss retired after 32 years of being a school administrator and was drawn into the nonpro t world knowing she would not come close to making as much as before.

“Working to help homeless individuals become self-su cient has given me rewards that are not easily compared,” she said. “Yes, I don’t make the yearly income I did even 10 years ago, but I chose this profession with a nonpro t for reasons other than nancial. You don’t become an administrator of a nonpro t for the money; it’s the cause.”

e same notion motivated Mike Lutz, who left his job as a civil engineer with the city of Louisville in 2008 to work at Broom eld FISH.

Lutz said he wanted to make some changes in his life and made the leap into the nonpro t world after seeing some men unloading a truck at the FISH headquarters.

“I asked them if they needed some help and I jumped right in,” Lutz said. “It just seemed the ideal place and time for me.”

He started as a volunteer and eventually became the organization’s food operations manager. Lutz hustles around FISH’s marketplace to make sure shelves are stocked with food donated by community and corporate groups.

Lutz also coordinates daily with grocery stores in Broom eld and Westminster to collect donations, including fresh fruits and vegetables. e job is especially important to him since he grew up in Broom eld and sees how FISH helps his longtime friends and neighbors.

“I don’t know of another job where I can wake up and can’t wait to get to work,” Lutz said. “I know the money is not great. But here I feel like I am making a di erence.”

A school project by Sharin Oliver’s son led her to volunteer for FISH in 2009. She liked the neighborly atmosphere at FISH and stayed on to become operations manager.

Oliver had been a management consultant out of college and then a stay-at-home mom. FISH became her calling.

“FISH makes Broom eld a smaller place, and I like that,” Oliver said. “My son once told me ‘Mom, you want to feed the world.’”

“Yeah,” she said, “I guess I do.”

is story is from e Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support e Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun. com. e Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.

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Valor girls, RC boys stall short of Final Four

Regis Jesuit, Arapahoe prevail over ranked foes

BY JIM BENTON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Being one of the top seeds in the Great 8 doesn’t necessarily assure a passage into the Final Four.

Take the Valor Christian girls team and the boys squad from Rock Canyon for example.

Arapahoe, remembering an early season loss to Valor, upset the top-seeded Eagles, 64-52, during a day-long Great 8 Class 6A session at the Denver Coliseum on March 4.

Rock Canyon, seeded second in the Class 6A boys bracket, was ousted by Regis Jesuit, 47-46, as the Raiders’ Tarea Fulcher completed a 3-point play with 3.2 seconds remaining in the game.

Mountain Vista, the top-seeded boys team, was sparked by the play of Radek Homer and toppled Valor

In girls Final Four games on March 10 at the Coliseum, Cherry Creek (22-4) will play Grandview (17-9) at 11 a.m. and Arapahoe (20-6) will face Monarch (25-1) at 2:15 p.m.

Grandview’s 6-3 sophomore Sienna Betts was hard to stop with 23 points and 15 rebounds as the Wolves defeated Highlands Ranch, 57-53. Monarch avenged an earlier loss to Regis Jesuit with a 62-44 win over the Raiders.

e boys 6A Final Four schedule on March 10 has Mountain Vista (24-2) going against Denver East (24-2) at 4 p.m. and Regis (20-6) meeting Fossil Ridge (24-2) in a 12:45 p.m. contest.

Arapahoe’s girls made eight of 10 free throws in the nal 68 seconds to get revenge from a 57-44 loss to Valor on Dec. 9. e Eagles also defeated the Warriors in last season’s Final Four.

“Getting beat earlier made us want this game more,” said Warriors sophomore Gianna Smith, who had 24 points and sank four straight free throws in the closing

and Emerson Stark nished with 10 markers.

Valor’s senior Macey Huard had 32 points and scored all the Eagles’ 13 fourth-quarter points.

Homer, Mountain Vista’s 6-foot-2 senior guard, broke his nose in the second quarter and missed the nal four minutes of the quarter.

He changed jerseys to No. 20 and played in the second half. He wound up with 23 points including 14 in the fourth quarter.

“We bumped heads and he didn’t mean to do it,” Homer said of the collision which sent him to the sidelines. “My nose is broken. It was painful when it rst happened. It feels amazing to win. It was great to be a part of it. We played really hard.”

Sophomore Braelynn Barnett had a double double in Cherry Creek’s win with 16 points and 11 rebounds while A’Neya Chambers added 13 points for the Bruins, who will now meet Centennial League foe Grandview for the third time this season. e teams split

Rock Canyon’s Gavin Hershberger took game scoring honors in the game against

Warriors defeat Arvada for Colorado Cup title in 10U division

Team fought to take first

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e Colorado Hockey

Association held multiple tournaments over the weekend as the youth hockey season winded down.

Playing in the Colorado Cup competition were the Arapahoe Warriors Yellow in the 10-and-under division. e Warriors, after placing second in three consecutive tournament championships, turned things around on March 5, beating Arvada 5-1 to take over the trophy.

After the game, leading scorer Dennis Lusinov, who scored 109 points and 98 goals over 40 games, said he was glad to nally take home the rst-place title.

Lusinov said he is proud of how hard the Warriors worked to nish strong in the nal tournament of the season.

Arapahoe’s Sydney White (22) and Valor Christian’s Emma Lytle (5) collide going for the open rebound. White’s Warriors pulled o the upset knocking o the Eagles 62-54 in Great 8 Action on March 4 at the Denver Coliseum.

Congrats to the Arapahoe 10UB Maize team on winning the 2023 CAHA State Championship. The Warriors beat the Colorado Rampage Navy 3-1 in a hard fought battle. ARAPAHOE WARRIORS HOCKEY LEAGUE PHOTO

Arapahoe 12U AA brought home the CCYHL Championship with a 4-3 win over the Hyland Hills Jaguars. ARAPAHOE WARRIORS HOCKEY LEAGUE PHOTO SEE

Arapahoe Warriors player, Lisunov, earns 109 points in season

Turns in 23 hat tricks

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

ere is a new hat-trick king in town and it’s not any players from the Colorado Avalanche. Instead, it’s Dennis Lisunov from the Arapahoe Warriors 10-and-under hockey program.

As the six-month-long season came to a close in early March with the Colorado Cup Championships Tournament, Lisunov nished with 109 points and 98 goals in the 40-game season.

It is nothing for Lisunov to turn in multiple hat track performances. By the end of the 2023 season, the 10-yearold had 23.

Lisunov said about three years ago his father took him to see a Colorado Avalanche game. Lisunov recalled the Avalanche winning 7-3, noting he became hooked on the game.

“Before that, I was only on roller skates, but I knew I wanted to get into hockey,” Lisunov said. “On the ice you just go faster and smoother.”

e 2022-23 season is Lisunov’s rst year playing competitive hockey, joining the Arapahoe Warriors Yellow team.

In the start of the season,

HOCKEY

Arvada, seeded second in the tournament, kept pace with the high-scoring Warriors through the second period when the game remained tied 1-1.

“I think both teams were pretty evenly matched,” Lusinov said. “I wanted to get to 100 goals in this game but it was good.”

e Warriors broke things open late in the second when Austin Castelli

players are paired with those with similar talent and skill levels.

For spectators, teammates and coaches, it was clear early in the season that Lisunov had natural talent and a drive to succeed.

Besides practicing with the Arapahoe Warriors team, which consists of players from Douglas, Arapahoe and Je erson counties, Lisunov started doing early-morning private lessons multiple days a week.

His progress, along with the Warriors coming together as a team on defense, paid o quickly. Lisunov led his team to the Colorado Cup Championship on March 5 where they defeated Arvada 5-1 in the nal round.

While teammates say Lisunov is a vocal leader on the ice, pushing everyone to perform better and telling them when he’s being covered a lot to shoot more and keep going, he’s quiet o the ice.

“I just want us all to play together well,” Lisunov said. “Whenever another team scores, I always tell our team we can keep going and to always play hard. Even in the early season when we did not do as well, I just told (teammates) to keep their heads up and we can do it.”

When asked about early season goals and how the

sneaked a quick pass past the goalie to give the team a 2-1 lead.

After that, it was all Warriors as the team went on to win 5-1.

e team’s second top scorer, Lewis Chan, said he was excited to nish strong. Chan nished the season with 34 goals, 15 assists and 49 points overall.

“It is an amazing way to nish,” Chan said. “We played a great game and our defense was amazing.”

As the season progressed, Chan worked on defense as much as o ense, earning a

season turned out, Lisunov had a simple answer, “I just wanted to learn and keep scoring as much as I could.”

As Lisunov started turning in more big games and accumulating hat tricks, he said he understood that other teams were looking at him. Most games had swarms of defenders getting on him. However, private lessons were proving to be successful, as the young player learned to circle behind the Warriors’ net and weave up the ice to rack up more unassisted goals.

Lisunov said one of the scariest moments in the season came in February during the Mile High Meltdown tournament. In the championship round, the Warriors faced Hyland Hills Black. Early in the game, with a tie score, Lisunov was leveled on a blindside check that sent him ying backwards. With a neck injury, Lisunov was taken to the locker room to be checked by trainers, and later the doctor. While the player guilty of the hit was not ejected, he was given a 10-minute major penalty.

Lisunov said he wanted to return for his team, knowing his importance to the team. However, after an attempt to play in the game, he knew his injury was too much. e following week he

defensive player of the game award at one point.

Lusinov and Chan were quick to not only credit the hard work and improvement of the team’s defense, but also to point to the excellent play of goalie Emma Preston.

Early in the season, 9-year-old Preston said her goal was the lead a championship team. She got her wish in the rst season, as the Warriors got the rstplace title in the fourth championship game of the season.

Preston nished the

worked to recover to get back into the competition during the nal Colorado Cup tournament. He said he felt more comfortable and adjusted in the rst round when the Warriors breezed to the second round in a 7-0 victory, which was another hat trick for Lisunov.

Lisunov credited season success to his dad for always taking him to practices and lessons and pushing him to work hard.

season with an 80% save percentage. Joining Preston on a strong defensive performance was Ryan Billman, Connor McDonald and Connor Morrison.

“ is win feels very good,” Preston said. “As a team we really worked hard for this. After losing three (title) games in a row, this one feels good. We got over early struggles and fought hard to win this game.”

Coach Chris Catelli told his team after the victory that it felt like a weight was lifted, given the team’s struggles in title games. In-

While Lisunov was born in the U.S., his parents moved to America nearly 15 years ago from Romania. Lisunov said his mom, with her strong accent, can be heard in the stands yelling and cheering him on. He said his mom has been one of his biggest supporters throughout the season.

Looking to the future, Lisunov said he loves hockey and wants to eventually become a pro player.

stead of placing second after three tournaments, he said, the team played hard to win the Colorado Cup title.

Besides the Warriors 10U team, Arapahoe’s youth hockey league also had several other champions over the weekend.

e Arapahoe 14U Navy team defeated Littleton for the title.

e Arapahoe 10UB Maize team won the 2023 CAHA State Championship.

e Arapahoe 12U Aa team won the CCYHL Championship, defeating Hyland Hills.

Arapahoe Warriors leading scorer Dennis Lisunov proudly holds the first place champion banner after defeating Arvada in the Colorado Cup competition on March 5.

PHOTO BY THELMA GRIMES

Many large Colorado school districts voluntarily recognize employee unions and have contracts that include collective bargaining rights, but there is no requirement that they do so. Union members say that leaves many teachers vulnerable.

Mountain Valley School District teacher Kevin Walek, a San Luis Valley teacher union vice president, said teachers worry if they speak out that school district leadership will punish them. Many teachers like him are within their rst few years of teaching and on a probationary period.

e bill would help teachers feel like they can use their voice.

“A lot of teachers just keep their head down,” Walek said. “It’s a tough environment.”

e Colorado Education Association and other advocacy groups say the bill grants rights and protections that were skipped over in last year’s collective bargaining bill for many public employees.

Multiple groups want to amend the bill, including the Colorado League of Charter Schools, the Colorado Association of School Executives, and the Colorado Charter School Institute. e committee approved amendments re-

lated to unintended consequences the groups identi ed, such as those related to State Board of Education powers and to ensure management positions wouldn’t be included.

Michelle Murphy, Colorado Rural Schools Alliance executive director, said the bill would substantially disrupt schools. e organization also wants to amend the bill.

“ is bill expands employee rights while dialing back and restricting employer rights,” she said.

Opponents include many county and city organizations and governments. Kevin Bommer, Colorado Municipal League executive director, said employers are already required to give employees substantial protections under federal law.

Others also argued there aren’t widespread complaints about improper employer practices. And any such issues can be handled by federal law, they said.

But Kelly said the public ultimately gets hurt when unhappy workers can’t resolve issues quickly with their employers.

“Workers end up leaving or they get to the point where they hate their jobs,” Kelly said. “ at creates an adverse e ect on anyone who uses public services.”

is story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters

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Public Trustees

COMBINED NOTICE - PUBLICATION

CRS §38-38-103 FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 0618-2022

To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

On December 20, 2022, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in the County of Arapahoe records.

Original Grantor(s)

Ronald J Southworth

Original Beneficiary(ies)

MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION

SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR REVERSE

MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC

Date of Deed of Trust

November 17, 2017

County of Recording Arapahoe

Recording Date of Deed of Trust

November 28, 2017

Recording Information (Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.)

D7134609

Original Principal Amount

$561,000.00

Outstanding Principal Balance

$240,280.38

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations thereof.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

LOTS 7 AND 8, BLOCK 43, SOUTH BROADWAY HEIGHTS, COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO.

Also known by street and number as: 4430 S Sherman Street, Englewood, CO 80113.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 04/19/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 2/23/2023

Last Publication: 3/23/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER

DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 12/20/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Alison L Berry #34531

N. April Winecki #34861

David R. Doughty #40042

Nicholas H. Santarelli #46592

Lynn M. Janeway #15592

Janeway Law Firm, P.C. 9800 S. Meridian Blvd., Suite 400, Englewood, CO 80112 (303) 706-9990

Attorney File # 22-028970

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public Trustees' Association of Colorado Re-

vised 1/2015

Legal Notice NO. 0618-2022

First Publication: 2/23/2023

CRS §38-38-103 FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 0622-2022

To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

On December 30, 2022, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in the County of Arapahoe records.

Original Grantor(s) MARIA WALTER

Original Beneficiary(ies) MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. ACTING SOLELY AS NOMINEE FOR EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt ONSLOW BAY FINANCIAL LLC

Date of Deed of Trust August 26, 2016 County of Recording Arapahoe Recording Date of Deed of Trust

August 29, 2016 Recording Information (Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.) D6096088 Original Principal Amount $394,250.00 Outstanding Principal Balance $234,576.60

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust and other violations of the terms thereof

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

LOT 1, BLOCK 8, AMENDED PLAT OF CHERRY CREEK VISTA, FILING NO. 6, COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO.

Also known by street and number as: 11107 EAST BERRY AVENUE, ENGLEWOOD, CO 80111.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 05/03/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 3/9/2023

Last Publication: 4/6/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 12/30/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Anna Johnston #51978

Ryan Bourgeois #51088

Joseph D. DeGiorgio #45557

Randall M. Chin #31149 Barrett, Frappier & Weisserman, LLP 1391 Speer Boulevard, Suite 700, Denver, CO 80204 (303) 350-3711

Attorney File # 00000009667577

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the deed of trust and other violations thereof.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

LOT 10, BLOCK 1, WILLOW CREEK FILING NO. 5, COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO.

Also known by street and number as: 7855 South Trenton Street, Centennial, CO 80112.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

If applicable, a description of any changes to the deed of trust described in the notice of election and demand pursuant to affidavit as allowed by statutes: C.R.S.§ 38-35-109(5) LEGAL CO-GRANTOR'S NAME HAS BEEN CORRECTED BY SCRIVENER'S AFFIDAVIT RECORDED 03/09/2022 AT RECEPTION NO. E2027163 IN THE RECORDS OF ARAPAHOE COUNTY.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 04/19/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 2/23/2023

Last Publication: 3/23/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 12/16/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Alison L Berry #34531

N. April Winecki #34861

David R. Doughty #40042

Nicholas H. Santarelli #46592

Lynn M. Janeway #15592 Janeway Law Firm, P.C. 9800 S. Meridian Blvd., Suite 400, Englewood, CO 80112 (303) 706-9990

Attorney File # 21-025829

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public Trustees' Association of Colorado Revised 1/2015

Legal Notice NO. 0612-2022

First Publication: 2/23/2023

To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:

On December 16, 2022, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described

below to be recorded in the County of Arapahoe records.

Original Grantor(s)

William G. Reedy

Original Beneficiary(ies)

Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as Beneficiary, as nominee for First Horizon Home Loan Corporation, its successors and assigns

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt Citibank, N.A., not in its individual capacity but solely as Owner Trustee for New Residential Mortgage Loan Trust 2018-5

Date of Deed of Trust

January 27, 2005

County of Recording

Arapahoe

Recording Date of Deed of Trust

February 03, 2005

Recording Information (Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.)

B5016575 Original Principal Amount

$154,000.00 Outstanding Principal Balance $121,106.08

Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the evidence of debt secured by the Deed of Trust and other violations thereof.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

ATTACHED EXHIBIT "A"

Also known by street and number as: 4585 South Elati Street, Englewood, CO 80110.

THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 A.M. on Wednesday, 04/19/2023, at The East Hearing Room, County Administration Building, 5334 South Prince Street, Littleton, Colorado, 80120, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)' heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys' fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

First Publication: 2/23/2023

Last Publication: 3/23/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER

DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

DATE: 12/16/2022

Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee in and for the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado

By: Susan Sandstrom, Public Trustee

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

Amanda Ferguson #44893

Heather Deere #28597

Toni M. Owan #30580

Halliday, Watkins & Mann, PC 355 Union Blvd., Ste. 250, Lakewood, CO 80228 (303) 274-0155 Attorney File # CO21123

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

©Public Trustees' Association of Colorado Revised 1/2015

EXHIBIT A 0614-2022

That part of Lot 5, Block 1, Jernberg Subdivision, described as follows: Beginning at a point 135.3 feet North of the Southwest corner of Lot 5; Thence North along the West line of said Lot 5, 60 feet; Thence East 82.48 feet, more or less, to the East line of said Lot 5; Thence South along the East line of said Lot 5, 60 feet; Thence West 82.48 feet, more or less, to the point of beginning; and that part of Block 2, Wollenweber`s Broadway Gardens, adjoining the above described property, described as follows: Beginning at a point 135.3 feet North of the Southeast corner of Lot 5, Block 1, Jernberg Subdivision, which point of beginning is 369.3 feet, more or less, West and 135.3 feet North of the Southeast corner of Block 2, Wollenweber`s Broadway Gardens, the true point of beginning; Thence North 60 feet along the East line of Lot 5, Block 1, Jernberg Subdivision; Thence East 44.43 feet; Thence South 60 feet; Thence West 44.43 feet to the point of beginning, County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado.

Legal Notice NO. 0614-2022 First Publication: 2/23/2023

Last Publication: 3/23/2023

Name of Publication: Littleton Independent City and County

PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF CENTENNIAL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, the Centennial City Council passed on first reading:

ORDINANCE NO. 2023-O-01

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CENTENNIAL, COLORADO APPROVING THE 4th AMENDMENT TO THE PEAKVIEW PLACE MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PUD-22-00001)

The full text of the ordinance is available for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk. The ordinance may be obtained by contacting the City Clerk, 303-754-3324. The full text of the ordinance is also available on the City’s web site, www.centennialcolorado.com.

By:Barbara Setterlind, MMC, City Clerk

Legal Notice No. 531121

First Publication: March 9, 2023

Last Publication: March 9, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen

PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY OF CENTENNIAL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, the Centennial City Council approved the following ordinance on second and final reading:

ORDINANCE NO. 2023-O-02

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CENTENNIAL, COLORADO AMENDING SECTIONS OF ARTICLE 3, TITLED MUNICIPAL COURT, OF CHAPTER 2 OF THE CENTENNIAL MUNICIPAL CODE

The full text of the ordinance is available for public inspection in the office of the City Clerk and is also available on the City’s web site, www.centennialcolorado.com. The ordinance may be obtained by contacting the City Clerk, 303-754-3324.

(First published February 16, 2023)

By:Barbara Setterlind, MMC, City Clerk

Legal Notice No. 531122

First Publication: March 9, 2023

Last Publication: March 9, 2023

Publisher: Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen

Public Notice

ARAPAHOE COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON A PROPOSED TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON USE BY SPECIAL REVIEW APPLICATIONS FOR OIL AND GAS FACILITIES

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on March 28, 2023, the Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing at 9:30 a.m., or as soon as possible thereafter as the meeting agenda of the Board permits, on a proposed temporary moratorium on land use applications for any Use by Special Review for an Oil and Gas Facility as referenced in Section 5-3.6 of the Arapahoe County Land Development Code. Said proposed temporary moratorium is to allow the County to develop and update appropriate land use regulations for such applications.

Said Public Hearing will be held in the Arapahoe County Administration Building, East Hearing Room, 5334 S Prince St., Littleton CO 80120; at which, all interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard concerning the proposed temporary moratorium.

More information about this proposal is available at the Arapahoe County Public Works and Development Department, Planning Division, 6924 S. Lima St., Centennial, CO 80112, 720-874-6650 or by emailing planning@arapahoegov.com.

Joan Lopez, Clerk to the Board

Legal Notice No. Arap 1164

First Publication: March 9, 2023

Last Publication: March 9, 2023

Publisher: Englewood Herald Littleton Independent and the Centennial Citizen Metropolitan Districts

Public Notice

NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF REGULAR ELECTION BY THE DESIGNATED ELECTION OFFICIAL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Jones Metropolitan District Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, Arapahoe County, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the elections there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the elections to be held on May 2, 2023, are hereby canceled

Grocery, convenience stores uncork wine sales

BY ELLIOTT WENZLER THE COLORADO SUN

As of March 1, it’s wine-o-clock.

As Coloradans browse the aisles of their local grocery and convenience stores in March, looking for the right loaf of bread or reasonably priced eggs, they will soon have a new option for soothing their in ationsqueezed shopping experience: wine.

at’s because voters in November approved a ballot initiative allowing wine to be sold in grocery and convenience stores. Proposition 125 narrowly passed with 50.6% of voters in favor.

Both grocery and convenience stores with a license to sell beer can begin selling wine March 1. at’s approximately 1,900 licensees as of this month, according to the Department of Revenue. ey’ll

LOCKDOWN

Leiker said the district implemented an enhanced communication strategy on March 1 when more swatting incidents happened in Boulder, Brighton and Aspen.

Although Littleton schools were not targeted, the district sent out texts and emails and posted on their website to keep families informed.

“I appreciated them acknowledging the situation quickly,” Yongue said about the March 1 communications. “It was very soon after news reports of the other calls being made again that we received the message from (the district).”

Other parents said they were pleased by how the district handled communications during the lockdown and did not see a need for change.

“It’s di cult because as a parent, I really would like to know what’s

also be able to o er beer and wine tastings.

e Colorado Licensed Beverage Association, which represents small liquor retailers, opposed the measure and warns that its members could be crushed by the change.

“While many liquor stores will adapt and outsell grocery stores because of their selection, we foresee approximately a third of the 1,600 independent liquor stores across the state are in danger of losing their business,” said Chris Fine, executive director of the organization.

e measure also didn’t change any other existing alcohol-sales rules, such as the prohibition of sales between midnight and 8 a.m., and no alcohol sales to anyone under 21. Stores that plan to immediately add wine at all of their Colorado locations include Trader Joe’s, King Soopers and Safeway.

going on right away, right?” Siddall said. “But I have learned with all the issues we have been having at all di erent schools that it takes a lot of time to put the communication out… You have to trust our principal, you have to trust our resource o cer and the police — even when, yes, of course, we want to know what’s going on.”

Impact on students

When asked if he was afraid when the lockdown began, Osso said he was more confused than anything.

“For the most part, I was just confused about like, what’s happening?” he said. “I’ve lived my whole life in Littleton, and nothing really happens that’s too big. So I was just confused about what could happen.”

Laura Mehew, a Littleton High School mother, said she is concerned about the impact of swatting on students, especially considering how many are being victimized by these incidents.

“ ese kids have been exposed to so much, they’re almost becoming

stores aren’t allowed to stock their stores with wine until March 1, a spokesperson said.

Two other alcohol-related ballot measures, Propositions 124 and 126, failed on the November ballot.

desensitized to it a little bit, which is, in my opinion, a defense mechanism,” she said. “It’s in the hundreds, I would say the thousands of students who are being impacted by (swatting)… It causes trauma.”

Littleton High School alone has approximately 1,300 students, so thousands of Colorado students have been victims of swatting in recent weeks.

Mehew is particularly concerned because her family was involved in an active shooter situation a few years ago. e suspect in that situation ended up being unarmed, making her familiar with the trauma that threat situations can cause, even if they do not end up causing physical harm.

Yongue said swatting is “frustrating” and “disgusting.”

“(Kids) have this true threat that they deal with, and we as parents deal with every day that we send our kids to school,” she said. “To have somebody exploit that is — I don’t understand how you get to a state of mind where you think, ‘ is is what

a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support e Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun.com. e Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.

I’m going to do today.’ And it’s even more frustrating to know that they will most likely never be caught.”

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, those who post or send false threats can receive up to ve years in federal prison, or they can face state or local charges. In Colorado, false reporting of an emergency is a class 1 misdemeanor, but can be raised to a felony if injury occurs.

e Littleton Police Department said they are working with local partners and the FBI as investigations into the incident move forward.

Mehew said she is grateful for those who work to keep students safe when situations like this occur.

“Our school people are put on the frontlines of so many issues that kids are facing right now,” she said. “Education and trying to educate them is just one part of it. ey’re having to help these kids through so much more. So I’m very appreciative of the school and of the Littleton Police Department.”

Public Notices

Wine started being sold in grocery stores on March 1. SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE