ELBERT COUNTY NEWS 111821

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November 18, 2021

ELBERT COUNTY, COLORADO

A publication of

ElbertCountyNews.net

VOLUME 126 | ISSUE 40

Kiowa Creek troupe presents annual melodrama ‘Pony Expresso’ draws attendees from as far as Colorado Springs

BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

All of the Duffy kids are involved in extracurricular activities, including football and cheerleading.

COURTESY OF THE DUFFY FAMILY

Elizabeth family honored for National Adoption Month Duffy family fosters 35 children in 5 years

BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

November is National Adoption Month, a time to highlight adoption success stories and encourage

adoption from foster care. To celebrate this month, the Christie and Maggie Duffy family of Elizabeth was honored in a virtual awards ceremony by the Colorado Department of Human Services for their dedication to working with Colorado’s foster system.

One foster/adoptive family from each Colorado county was nominated for the annual award and

five were honored as foster/adoptive families of the year, including Elbert County’s Duffy family. The award thanks families for their hard work in fostering and adopting Colorado kids, and is also intended to promote fostering and retain foster parents throughout the state.

SEE ADOPTION, P15

The Kiowa Creek Community Theater put on its annual fall melodrama for four consecutive days beginning Nov. 4. The Friday and Saturday night dinner theater performances in Kiowa had more than 100 attendees.

When first entering the performance space of the Kiowa Creek Community Church, attendees were greeted by director Polly Ehlers warning them to visit the bathroom before the play begins. “I guarantee you’ll wet your pants if you don’t go now!” she said.

The play, entitled “The Pony Expresso Or … the Villain Came to a Grinding Halt,” is set in the budding community of Waterpit, Nevada in 1861. The main setting for the play is the Pony Expresso coffee shop in the heart of Waterpit. The play had a cast of 11 local actors as well as various volunteers to help with music, lighting, and general behind-the-scenes workings.

One of the volunteers working behind the scenes was Elbert County Commissioner Rick Pettitt, a Kiowa local.

“I used to do the play for a while, now I help behind the scenes every year,” said Pettitt. “This year I worked the lighting.”

SEE MELODRAMA, P14

INSIDE: CALENDAR: PAGE 9 | VOICES: PAGE 10 | LIFE: PAGE 12

ACCESSING THE OUTDOORS

Colorado provides recreational opportunities for people with disabilities P12

2 Elbert County News

November 18, 2021

Polis OKs COVID booster shots for all Colo. adults Action comes amid ‘significant wave of disease spread’

BY KYLE COOKE ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

Gov. Jared Polis has signed an executive order allowing any fully vaccinated Colorado adult to receive a COVID-19 booster shot.

“The health and safety of Coloradans has been my top priority throughout this global pandemic.

We want to ensure that Coloradans have every tool they need to protect themselves from this deadly virus and to help reduce the stress on our hospitals and health care workers,” Polis said in a Nov. 10 news release.

“Every Coloradan is now eligible to get the booster so they can protect themselves and their families. I was relieved to get the booster two weeks ago, and strongly encourage you to get it too.”

To be eligible for a booster shot in Colorado, you must be at least 18 years old and six months past your second dose of either the Pizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. If you received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you must wait at least two months for your booster.

In the executive order, Polis wrote boosters are necessary because “the entire State of Colorado is in a significant wave of disease spread.”

“With an estimated 1 in 67 Colora-

Gov. Jared Polis signs a bill at his desk at the Colorado state Capitol on June 7.

dans infected,” the order reads, “it is likely that nearly all Coloradans are exposed to COVID-19 where they live or work.”

Earlier, Dr. Eric France, the chief medical officer with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, encouraged eligible Coloradans to get their booster, saying it will “keep your immunity up and help keep you out of the hospi-

FILE PHOTO BY ELLIS ARNOLD

tal.”

But France’s statement was based on CDC guidance, which says people should only get boosters if they are 65 or older, have underlying medical conditions or work/live in a highrisk setting. The new executive order from Polis opens boosters to all adults, not just those who fit in the categories listed above.

Polis’ executive order comes at a time when Colorado is seeing nearrecord COVID-19 hospitalizations.

More than 1,400 people are hospitalized with COVID-19 in Colorado, according to the latest data.

That is the second-highest figure since hospitalizations peaked in December 2020, before the delta variant emerged and before the vaccine was widely available. Currently, about 80% of those hospitalized with COVID-19 are not vaccinated.

Hospitals are at risk of being overwhelmed. On Nov. 9, the state activated the “crisis standards of care” to help with hospital staffing.

“Activating staffing crisis standards of care allows health care systems to maximize the care they can provide in their communities with the staff they have available,” France said in a statement.

Dr. Ivor Douglas, the chief of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Denver Health, spoke with PBS NewsHour’s Amna Nawaz recently about the worrying trends in Colorado.

“At the end of the day, we have to preserve our workforce,” Douglas said, speaking about the crisis standard of care. “While we’re committed to the care of every patient, we have lost large numbers of highly expert and professional people. It’s true we’re tired, but, at the same time, we have got to be there for tomorrow’s patients as well. And if we burn through everybody, there is no future and there is no cavalry coming. So we have got to do this in an affordable, careful way.”

Asked why Colorado is having such a hard time with COVID-19, despite being 14th in the country in terms of vaccinated adults, Douglas said, “We don’t really know.”

This story is from Rocky Mountain PBS, a nonprofit public broadcaster providing community stories across Colorado over the air and online.

Used by permission. For more, and to support Rocky Mountain PBS, visit rmpbs.org.

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Elbert County News 3

November 18, 2021

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4 Elbert County News

November 18, 2021

Report details pandemic’s impact on metro-Denver arts Cultural organizations lost a decade of growth

BY KYLE COOKE ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

The nonprofit Colorado Business Committee for the Arts (CBCA) has released a study detailing the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on art and cultural institutions and many of the findings paint a bleak image.

The data for the study were selfreported by close to 300 arts, culture and science organizations that receive funding from the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD).

The CBCA study, released Nov. 4, concluded that the Denver area’s arts sector “lost a decade of growth in 2020.”

“Arts, culture and scientific organizations are the backbone of a vibrant, resilient and inclusive society. CBCA’s 2021 Economic Activity Study of Metro Denver Culture illustrates years of record-breaking cultural growth, which hit an alltime high in 2019, and conversely in 2020, how a community responds to drastic and disruptive circumstances,” CBCA’s executive director Christin Crampton Day said in a news release.

2019 was a banner year for the arts, with $2.3 billion in economic activity (defined by the CBCA as “direct and indirect spending from operations, audiences and capital

The remodeled lobby of the Denver Art Museum’s Lanny & Sharon Martin Building, which reopened Oct. 24.

projects”). That figure is an all-time high.

But. of course, the COVID-19 pandemic was right around the corner in 2020, and with the combination of the deadly virus and pandemicrelated closures of places like museums and concert venues, economic activity decreased by 34% compared to 2019.

The CBCA said the economic activity in 2020 was comparable to the levels of the Great Recession in 2008.

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Not surprisingly, attendance to arts events was nearly halved.

Job loss was another problem.

In 2019, the cultural sector had a record number of full-time, parttime and contract workers at 13,392 according to the CBCA’s study. “If the entire cultural nonprofit sector was one single employer in 2019, it would have been the largest private employer in the metro region,” the CBCA wrote.

But in 2020, the number of workers plummeted nearly 30%, down to just 9,688.

That summer, Rocky Mountain PBS spoke with three different workers in Colorado’s entertainment industry, including Philip Hiester. A stagehand who works at places like Boettcher Concert Hall, Hiester had to file for unemployment benefits for the first time in his decades-long career during the pandemic.

The hardest part for Hiester during the pandemic was the uncertainty of when steady work would return. Some of that anxiety was eased in 2021 when indoor performances returned to the Colorado Symphony, but rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in Colorado are proof that the pandemic is not very close to being over.

There were, however, some suc-

PHOTO BY MARK HARDEN

cess stories. The Denver-based dance company Wonderbound, for example, was able to keep all its dancers on payroll despite performance cancellations.

And the Denver Art Museum, meanwhile, was able to open its renovated campus earlier this year.

After the renovations, the museum added 65 full-time jobs.

The lone bright spot in the CBCA study was in donations and government support for the arts sector.

It was the only key metric in the study that increased between 2019 to 2020.

In 2019, the organizations surveyed received $38 million in individual donations and $25 million in government funding. In 2020, individual donations jumped to $43 million and government funding increased to $41 million.

“These sources helped to cover major losses in earned revenue and corporate event sponsorships as a result of the pandemic,” the CBCA wrote.

This story is from Rocky Mountain PBS, a nonprofit public broadcaster providing community stories across Colorado over the air and online.

Used by permission. For more, and to support Rocky Mountain PBS, visit rmpbs.org.

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Elbert County News 5

November 18, 2021

Live stage shows go different directions

BY SONYA ELLINGBOE SELLINGBOE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Area theaters are opening again and I happily attended two performances on the weekend of Nov. 6-7 — very different, but both engaging: “American Son” by Christopher Demos-Brown at Curious Theatre in Denver and “Winter Wonderettes”

by Roger Bean at Littleton Town Hall Arts Center.

“American Son,” by trial lawyer/ playwright Demos-Brown, played on Broadway, with Kerry Washington as the mother. It’s set in the couldbe-in-any-county waiting room at the Dade County, Florida, Courthouse, with chairs for those who need to wait for their time in court, an American flag, county insignia in a frame, a clock, harsh lighting — and space to pace. The stage set’s blandness sets off the tense story well.

“It is a play that gives us a glimpse into the fears and concerns that almost every parent of a Black male child in this country faces on a regular basis, especially in interactions with police,” wrote director Jada Suzanne Dixon, who also performs the role of Kendra Ellis-Connor, a Black mother, whose son is missing as lights go up on the Curious stage.

(He’s a mild-mannered kid who once burst into tears over “Puff the Magic Dragon,” she says.)

“There’s been an incident,” says tense young white Officer Paul Larkin (Sean Scrutchins), in reply to her questioning. He stalls about

more information, while she presses, growing increasingly frantic over her son’s whereabouts.

Her white husband, Scott (Josh Robinson), an FBI agent, arrives — sputtering and aggressive — “He’s going to West Point, went to private schools — I won’t put up with him regressing,” Scott says. “Obviously something happened.” (We learn that Scott has walked out on mother and son recently.)

“He was driving around with two other black males in the car,” the officer tells him — which he hadn’t told the mother.

What transpires is predictable, but the tension is with us until the end of this well-crafted piece.

Abner Genece, forceful as Lt. John Stokes, is the fourth character, who enters the one-act late.

“American Son” keeps the audience engaged and the cast is strong.

Chip Walton, Curious founder, said he and Dixon had both seen the play in New York and compared notes, agreeing that it was a good fit for Curious.

Given the skills of the cast, crew and director involved, (all member of Actors Equity) — I’d hope to see some exploration of material that was not quite so predictably “a good fit” for Curious. They have created works that stretched talents further afield in the past.

“American Son” plays through Dec. 11 at Curious Theatre Company, 1080 Acoma St., Denver, curioustheatre.org.

“Winter Wonderettes” finds this

singing group of young women, whom we have met before at Town Hall, six years later in Springfield, performing at the Harper’s Hardware Holiday Party ... Bob Wells directed the well-blended voices of Missy (Rebekah Ortiz) Cindy Lou (Abby McInerney), Suzy (Cara Lippitt) and Betty Jean (Caitlin Hilzer) into a program of seasonal music, mostly familiar, with live accompaniment (always a plus)

by Donna Kolpan Debreceni on the keyboard; Scott Alan Smith on bass and Larry Ziehl on percussion.

The smooth and lively singers, clad in pastel velvet dresses with a bit of lace trim, were choreographed

by Kelly Kates, which adds an extra professional polish to the show, in addition to Wells’ skilled direction of well-blended voices.

Many selections are warmly familiar, starting with “A Marshmallow World,” and including the traditional “O Tannenbaum” and “Santa Baby” but also include some we may

not have heard, like “We Wanna See Santa Do the Mambo!”

I love the idea of children being included in holiday entertainment outings and the elementary-age kids seated in front of me seemed thoroughly engaged, as well as obviously pleased with wearing party dresses.

This is a good choice for younger family members, though probably not the teeny folks, who might prefer Frosty or Santa ...

The cheery set with tree and fireplace adds to the atmosphere.

“Winter Wonderettes” plays through Dec. 26 and alternates with “Plaid Tidings,” directed by Nick Sugar, which runs through Jan. 2. A great contrast appears in late January with “Little Shop of Horrors,” directed by Bob Wells. (Jan. 28 to March 6.) townhallartscenter.org, or 303-794-2787.

While the COVID-19 pandemic continues, public events frequently are canceled or rescheduled. Check with organizers before you go.

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6 Elbert County News

November 18, 2021

Was your roof damaged this hail season?

If you want to file an insurance claim, the fall months are the best time to do so.

This will allow you to get any repairs done before the winter season.

In-N-Out Burger’s new location in Lakewood.

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In-N-Out Burger, the popular fast food chain based out of California, is looking at Parker for its next drive-through restaurant location.

The company submitted a preliminary site plan for a 3,000-square-foot eatery on the southwest corner of the Pine Lane and Parker Road intersection, according to the town’s project tracking website.

This would be the sixth Colorado location for the franchise. Grand openings of other In-N-Outs in Colorado have had wait times lasting several hours that have continued for weeks after.

For several weeks after the opening of the Lone Tree location, the store had a police presence, a dedicated lane of traffic outside the restaurant and traffic coordinators.

The project will require a public hearing before the planning commission and the town council

because of an associated zoning amendment. This meeting has not yet been scheduled, according to a town spokesperson.

In a statement to Colorado Community Media, Mike Abbate, the assistant vice president of real estate and development for In-NOut, said that they are still in the “development application process” and therefore it’s too early to say when or if the location will happen.

“Being a good neighbor is very important to us at In-N-Out, both at our current locations, as well as at prospective sites,” Abbate said.

“Throughout the planning process, our intent is to be sure that any concerns are addressed, and to make any necessary adjustments in the hope that our business will only be a positive presence in the community.”

Typically, once construction begins for their locations, it takes about six to seven months for them to open, he said.

“We do know that Parker is a wonderful community, and we are excited about the prospect of opening for business there,” he said.

Elbert County News 7

November 18, 2021

County Offices Closed Nov. 25 & 26 Douglas County offices will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 25 and Friday, Nov. 26 in observance of Thanksgiving.

Many county services are available online at douglas.co.us/online-services Sheldon Irish, right, a Parker Task Force volunteer, stands with representatives from David Weekly Homes with the donation of Thanksgiving turkeys in 2018. COURTESY PHOTO

Parker Task Force seeks Thanksgiving donations Local food bank asks for help to offer meals to families in need STAFF REPORT

The Parker Task Force, a local food bank, is seeking donations of holiday food baskets to provide Thanksgiving meals to families in need, according to a news release.

The task force is looking for food baskets made up of Thanksgiving items that can feed a family of four to six people.

The task force asks those making boxes to include: frozen turkey, an aluminum turkey pan, canned green beans, butter, stuffing, canned cream of mushroom soup, dinner rolls, packets of jars of gravy, canned fruit, pie, potatoes, sweet potatoes, whipped topping and cranberry sauce.

These baskets can be dropped off at the Parker Task Force building at 19105 Longs Way between 9 a.m. and noon on Nov. 16-17 or Nov. 19-20, according to the release.

“The food bank is also seeking monetary donations in any

amount,” according to the release.

Those interested in donating funds can write a check payable to Parker Task Force — using a “Thanksgiving” memo — and mail it to the food bank. Contributions are also possible through the Parker Task Force website, parkertaskforce.org.

“The holiday season is a vital time to raise money for all nonprofits. Any additional funds collected during Thanksgiving will be used to help provide limited financial assistance to prevent eviction or utility shut-off through the winter months,” said Steve Budnack, chairman of the Parker Task Force, according to the news release.

The Parker Task Force provides short-term food and limited financial support to those in need in Parker, Elizabeth and Franktown.

“The Task Force can also use gift cards to local grocery stores. These are used to purchase perishable food for the food bank, for example, milk, eggs, cheese, meat and produce,” according to the release.

More information about the Thanksgiving efforts is available by calling the Parker Task Force at 303-841-3460 or sending an email to foodbank@parkertaskforce.org.

Prepare for unexpected power outages with a Generac home standby generator

Douglas County needs you Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity in your community? Share your talent and expertise on one of our many Citizen Advisory Boards, Committees or Commissions. Apply online by Dec. 1 at douglas.co.us and search for Board and Commissions.

Community E-recycling Douglas County residents may dispose of unwanted electronics free of charge at Techno Rescue, 3251 Lewiston St. in Aurora. Drop off weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and occasional Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proof of residency is required. For a list of acceptable items, Saturday drop-off dates and more information visit douglas.co.us/community-recycling

Need flood zone information?

If you live in unincorporated Douglas County, Flood Insurance Rate Maps and zone information are available by request. Visit douglas.co.us and search for Flood Plain Information. A form may also be requested by calling 303-660-7490 or visiting Public Works Engineering, 100 Third St. in Castle Rock.

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8 Elbert County News

November 18, 2021

Film on the Rocks is back Red Rocks film series prepares for another season with 13 holiday drive-in shows STAFF REPORT

Film on the Rocks, the long-running series at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre giving film buffs a reason to head for the foothills, is preparing to kick off its 22nd season.

This year, a classic lineup of holiday favorites will be screened at the iconic venue Fridays through Sundays from Nov. 26 to Dec. 12.

From fun films for the whole family like “The Polar Express,” “Home Alone” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” to decidedly more grown-up fare like “Die Hard” and

“Love, Actually,” Film on the Rocks — Holiday Drive-In, has something for everyone.

The Holiday Drive-In films will be shown in the Lower South parking lot at Red Rocks. Movie-goers will be able to watch from the warmth and comfort of their own cars. The films will be shown on an LED screen, with audio accessible via an FM radio frequency.

No RVs, buses or trailers will be allowed entrance, and high-profile vehicles will be asked to park in specific areas so they won’t interfere with sight lines of lower-profile vehicles.

Tickets can be purchased for $59.50 per car (regardless of the number of occupants), which gets you entrance, a soft drink, popcorn and candy.

Visit www.redrocksonline.com/film to view the full schedule and purchase tickets.

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre in Jefferson County.

PHOTO BY T.S. STEINER/SHUTTERSTOCK

Is carpet cleaning on your holiday checklist?

As we prepare for guests this holiday season, many of our to-do lists include carpet cleaning.

A simple thing like professional carpet cleaning could pollute our stormwater. Water used in the cleaning process contains yucky stuff that nobody wants in the waterways.

If carpet cleaning is on your list, make sure the water is disposed of in the toilet or down a floor drain. Ask your professional how they dispose of the carpet cleaning liquid. And remember never dump it in the street.

Local stormwater agencies are teaming together to bring you this message. We take this so seriously that we posted this ad rather than send you more garbage in the mail.

One thing is clear: our creeks, rivers and lakes depend on you.

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Visit onethingisclear.org to: • Report accidental and illegal dumping to your local agency • Search local volunteer events • Find more helpful tips

Give our streams a gift this holiday season by disposing of your cleaning solution properly.

Colorado Community Media agrees: Please recycle this newspaper responsibly and partner with our communities for a better tomorrow. Campaign creative donated by Castle Rock Water, Stormwater Division.

Elbert County News 9

November 18, 2021

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Sun 11/21 Living Savior Littleton In-Person Worship Services @ 8am / Free Living Savior Lutheran Church, 8050 West Coal Mine Avenue, Littleton

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10 Elbert County News

LOCAL

November 18, 2021

VOICES Do you see what we all see?

T

he resume came through first, and then an email, and finally a phone call.

The person trying to connect with me is someone whom WINNING I have known WORDS for a long time.

When they let me know that they were searching for a new opportunity and asked me if I would be willing to help, I enthusiastically Michael Norton agreed. This is a friend and former colleague whom I hold in very high regard.

As I reviewed the resume and cover letter, I was a bit taken aback as neither document spoke about the person that I have known for years. The information and accomplishments were understated to say the least.

The poor resume wasn’t what was really bothering me, it was more than that. This was someone whom I respected, loved, and appreciated. My next step was to call them and schedule a

time for an immediate video call.

I wanted to be able to see them, their eyes, face, and posture as I knew something wasn’t right.

When we began our conversation and got past the pleasantries, they asked me what I thought about their resume.

Instead of answering, I asked if I could ask a quick question first.

I asked them this, “What happened to the person I have known for the past 10 years?” They were a bit confused and a little shaken.

I said, “Look, as I read your resume and cover letter, I didn’t see anything exciting or noteworthy, there were no mentions of the three massive projects that reshaped the business trajectory of your company, nothing about the team’s achievements, and I was shocked that any reference to your thought leadership was also absent.”

They had let me know that the past 20 months had finally gotten the better of them. Early on it was losing people because they had to make cuts. Then it was being burnt out and overworked, and then it was losing people because they had better options or just didn’t want to come to an of-

fice any longer. My friend took all of this very personally. Finally, the executive team placed the blame squarely on their shoulders for the lack of people and lack of productivity. The pressure was just too much.

As my good friend and coach Tom Ziglar says, this was a perfect, “Are you kidding me?” moment. That means after I ask, “Are you kidding me?” I follow that up with questions and comments about all their past accomplishment and successes. I reminded my friend that what they had achieved was nothing short of extraordinary. So, I asked one more question, “When you look in the mirror, what do you see?”

The response included words such as tired, worried, afraid, mad, and a disappointment. I responded as if looking into the same mirror with others who knew them too. “Yes, we see someone who is like so many others out there in the world right now, we see tired, worried, and afraid. Do you know what else we see? We see someone who needs a different mirror. We see someone who needs to see what the rest of us see, eyes with reignited pas-

sion, unparalleled wisdom and knowledge, someone who loves people, intentionality of purpose, courage, and we see the most hopeful person we know, the person who stood by each of us when we were down. We see the winner in you.”

This week my friend was hired into a bigger role than they had ever had before.

The moral of this story is that each one of us has someone in our life that may be struggling right now. And maybe what they need more than anything else is to be reminded to look at themselves the way that we see them, through the lens of accomplishment, and with the eyes of renewed hope. Do you know anyone like that? I would love to hear your story at mnorton@ tramazing.com, and when we can help people to see in themselves what we all see, it really will be a better than good year.

Michael Norton is the grateful CEO of Tramazing.com, a personal and professional coach, and a consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator to businesses of all sizes.

Retirement costs of helping adult children

M

any families are still working through the negative impact that COVID-19 had on their pocketbook. One of the biggest challenges is FINANCIAL helping other family memSTRATEGIES bers, namely parents and adult children.

If you are part of the sandwich generation where you may be supporting three generations, then hard Patricia Kummer economic times may impact you three times harder than some.

As far as adult children who may have been out of the house before COVID took away jobs or housing, they may now be back bunking with you. Even if they are living in their own place, if you continue to pay for cell phones, car insurance and

A publication of

750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110 Phone: 303-566-4100 Web: ElbertCountyNews.net To subscribe call 303-566-4100

health insurance, it could greatly rob you of your own retirement plans.

It is common for many families to keep kids on the family cell phone package and car insurance coverage. Many families are also torn about replacing health insurance if their kids lost a job or their benefits were reduced.

According to a recent poll, 79% of parents admit to helping their adult children to pay living expenses or reduce debt.¹ Some parents paid off student loans, helped with rent and cars as well as helped to reduce their adult child’s other debts.

Small expenses also add up, and you may not realize how much. Paying a cell phone bill of $60 a month for five years could cost you over $14,000 in retirement savings based on a 6% annual rate and being 22 years from retirement.² Larger expenses, such as paying rent for three years, could

slash your nest egg by almost $50,000, assuming a monthly rental assistance of $400.² Big-ticket items can be devastating if you need to help cover expenses for five years and even borrow money for college. This could hit you for $227,000 in retirement savings over time, according to Today’s Families Consumer Survey.

This becomes a vicious cycle as more parents could become a burden to their child later on, especially if they had to fork out savings just prior to retirement. Half of parents financially helping their adult children say it is putting retirement savings at risk, according to Bankrate.

This could reduce funds set aside for retirement or even reduce the ability to continue to save at the same rate. The closer the parents are to retirement age, when they can’t replenish savings with earnings, the more difficult it is to recover.

Lack of health care is one

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher

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of the major contributors to unforeseen expenses and even bankruptcy. While it is impossible to plan for a situation with job loss, housing shortages and skyrocketing health care again, any proper financial planning could improve planning for emergencies. First work on keeping expenses within 80% of your income. This will help cushion those unexpected expenses and hopefully keep you on track for your own goals.

Next, meet with your financial advisor and devise a plan to help family members without annihilating your own retirement.

1.Creditcards.com 2. Nerdwallet.com Patricia Kummer has been a Certified Financial Planner professional and a fiduciary for over 35 years and is Managing Director for Mariner Wealth Advisors, an SEC Registered Investment Adviser.

Columnists & Guest Commentaries Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Elbert County News.

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.

ELBERT COUNTY NEWS (USPS 171-100) A legal newspaper of general circulation in Elizabeth, Colorado, the Elbert County News is published weekly on Thursday

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Elbert County News 11

November 18, 2021

‘Running Wild’ for wildlife through Denver

BY CHRISTY STEADMAN CSTEADMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Thanks to technology by Denverbased Wildlife Protection Solutions, residents have served as first responders to prevent a crime against wildlife as it happens in real time, halfway across the globe.

They “have directly contributed to saving the lives of animals,” said Eric Schmidt, executive director of Wildlife Protection Solutions. “With just a press of a button, the appropriate people get alerted.”

Wildlife Protection Solutions is a nonprofit that has field projects in sub-Saharan Africa and southeast Asia. A technology system called wpsWatch consists of cameras that can capture an image in real time and a wildlife monitoring app for a computer or mobile device. Together, the technology can alert rangers and managers of protected areas of possible threats and wildlife crimes — such as animal poaching — in real time.

“Using technology before shots are fired is one way to keep animals in nature, where they belong,” Schmidt said.

Wildlife Protection Solutions is one of four beneficiaries of the Running Wild race, which takes place annually on the Regis University campus in northwest Denver. This year, the race is taking place virtually and participants have through Dec. 1 to complete ether a 5K, 10K or 1-mile run.

“We’re watching some of these animals decline,” said Janet Rumfelt, a professor at Regis and Running Wild race director. But “we still have time to turn it around.”

Running Wild is dedicated to raising awareness about endangered African wildlife and eco-systems, and funding African wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts.

Since getting its start in 2015, Running Wild has raised more than $30,000 for wildlife conservation.

“People feel very connected to these animals in Africa,” Rumfelt said, “and they don’t want them to go extinct.”

How dogs are helping to save cheetahs Another one of running Wild’s beneficiaries is the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF), which has a multifaceted holistic conservation platform with an ultimate goal of keeping the cheetah in the wild from extinction.

In the 1970s, Dr. Laurie Marker became the caretaker of a newborn cheetah cub named Khayam at the Wildlife Safari in Oregon. The two formed a bond, and in 1977, Marker and Khayam traveled to southwest Africa — now Namibia — for a rewilding study. There, Marker learned that livestock farmers were catching hundreds of cheetahs in cage traps and killing them.

“It’s not that the farmers were bad people,” said Dionne Stein, development manager for events and special projects with the CCF. “It’s that they assumed it was cheetahs killing off all their livestock.”

Upon returning to the U.S., Khayam became an ambassador of cheetahs and travelled internationally to help people learn about the cheetah’s plight.

Fast forward about 20 years, and in 1990, Marker found the CCF in Na-

HOW TO ‘RUN WILD’ The 2021 Running Wild race takes place virtually through Dec. 1. Participants can choose to run/walk a 5K, 10K or 1-mile race. Those who do not wish to run may participate with a Run Wild in Your Dreams donation.

To learn more or to register, visit runningwildrace.org.

To learn more about the beneficiaries: • Africa Network for Animal WelfareUSA: www.anaw.org • Big Life Foundation: biglife.org/ • Cheetah Conservation Fund: cheetah. org/ • Wildlife Protection Solutions: wildlifeprotectionsolutions.org/ mibia to create a permanent place in the world for the cheetah, and in 1991, expanded the CCF to Somaliland.

In 1994, the organization started its Livestock Guarding Dog program to help Namibian farmers protect their livestock from predator attacks. How it works is the Cheetah Conservation Fund raises and trains a Turkish breed of dog — Anatolian shepherd and Kangal dogs — and provides them to African farmers.

“Their big, brilliant bark can scare off a predator,” Stein said of the Livestock Guarding Dogs. The program has been “80-to-100% effective in mitigating human-wildlife conflict.”

Farmers are also embracing the program, and in fact, there are about 600 Namibian farmers on a waitlist to receive a Livestock Guarding Dog — despite the process they must go through to receive one.

Before receiving a Livestock Guarding Dog, the farmer must apply, pay a fee and pass a farm assessment to prove they are dedicated to the dog’s welfare, Stein said. They must also comply with CCF doing an onsite check-in every six-to-12 months to follow up on the dog’s medical care, and to ensure the dog is settling into its guardian role and is being utilized and properly cared for by the farmer.

On track to lose about a million plant and animal species It was about five or six years ago when Running Wild’s race director Rumfelt starting hearing news that elephant poaching was on the rise. She started doing research and learned it’s not just elephants that are prime subjects of wildlife crimes.

Rumfelt learned that the world is on track to lose about a million of its plant and animal species, and that present day is likely the sixth mass animal destruction of time.

“Ecotourism is important to Africa as an economy — these animals are important to many peoples’ livelihood,” Rumfelt said. “When you help animals, you help people. And animals protect the ecosystem. We’re all interconnected.”

Rumfelt said she’s not the type of person to sit on the sidelines and wanted to do something. Thus, the Running Wild race — which supports organizations on the ground protecting animals and ecosystems — came to be. Rumfelt believes those who participate in the race are people who want to also be a part of the solution.

“We would love to see Coloradans show up and represent,” Rumfelt said, “and do their part to help African wildlife.”

Participants in the 2019 Running Wild race take off. The race, which benefits various nonprofits dedicated to African wildlife and ecosystem conservation and antiCOURTESY OF DAVID GARRICK PHOTOGRAPHY poaching efforts, takes place virtually through Dec. 1.

OBITUARIES DILEONARDO

Joseph Wright DiLeonardo July 17, 1943 - November 7, 2021

Joseph Wright DiLeonardo, 78, husband of Sharon Purcell DiLeonardo, of Abbeville, South Carolina died Sunday, November 7, 2021, at his residence. He was born in Palo Alto, CA to the late, Anthony and LaVina Sartain DiLeonardo.

Mr. Joseph W. DiLeonardo graduated from University of Santa Clara in 1965 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.

At the same time, he was commissioned as a Reserve Officer in the United States Army. In 1968 Mr. DiLeonardo graduated from University of Santa Clara with a Juris Doctor degree. He commenced active duty in 1968 completing infantry and intelligence training before being ordered to Vietnam in May 1969. Joseph was assigned Chief Order of Battle Section for the 635th MID of the America Division. In June 1970 he was returned to the United States having been awarded the Bronze Star Medal with first Oak leaf; the Army Commendation medal; two Gallantry Crosses from the Republic of Vietnam. Joseph practiced law upon return from his service in the Army. He authored two books, Vietnam War and Red Wave Task Force 2020. Following his retirement, he and his wife, Sharon moved to Angel Fire, New Mexico, where Mr. DiLeonardo worked COLMAN

various jobs and enjoyed helping with the Veterans Parade. From Angel Fire, New Mexico to Elizabeth, Colorado where Mr. DiLeonardo was an active member of the Elbert County, Colorado Republican Party and the Elbert County VFW. Later he relocated to Abbeville, SC. His love of horses, Republican Party, Veterans organizations and his family were well known.

He has been married to his wife, Sharon since 1979, they have one daughter, Christina Ann DiLeonardo and her husband Aaron Gravit; one grandson, Harrison Finn Gavit; four brothers, Anthony, Gregory, Christopher and Carl DiLeonardo; two sisters, Elaina Williamson and Maria Casey.

There are no services planned.

Memorial contributions, in memory of Mr. DiLeonardo, may be sent to the K-9’s for Warriors, 114 Camp K-9 Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville, South Carolina is assisting the DiLeonardo family.

Roy A “Roy” Colman, Sr.

August 18, 1946 - November 2, 2021

Roy A. Colman, Sr., 75, long-time Elbert County resident, passed away on November 2, 2021 from Covid complications. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 20, 2021, 10:00 a.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 34200 County Road 17, Elizabeth, CO 80107.

Place an Obituary for Your Loved One.

303-566-4100 obituaries@coloradocommunitymedia.com

12 Elbert County News

LOCAL

ACCESSING

LIFE

November 18, 2021

COLORADO How different resources are making the outdoors accessible to people with disabilities

A volunteer and participant enjoy a winter sport offered by the National Sports Center for the Disabled.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NSCD

BY OLIVIA JEWELL LOVE OLOVE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

W

hen looking to get outside and make memories with friends and family, disability

TAKE OUT

should not be something that limits someone experiencing the outdoors.

Check out examples of accessibility in Colorado that make the outdoors available for people with disabilities.

Getting there When trying to choose an activity, navigating parks and outdoor spaces can be overwhelming for people with disabilities. From knowing where accessible trailheads are, to knowing where to park, there can be uncertainties in getting started. Ashley Lyn Olson, who started wheelchairtraveling.com, aims to make that experience easier.

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A snowy day on the slopes is enjoyed by a volunteer and participant in an NSCD program.

Growing up as someone who loved hiking and camping, Olson did not let her paralysis at 14 stop her from experiencing the outdoors.

“I started the website in 2006.

The mission is to empower people with limited mobility, their friends and loved ones. “ Her international site features city and park guides, hotel reviews, plane tips, tour companies and adaptive activities. She has the voices of more than 300 writers on the site.

Her goal? Share her travel experience, and let others share theirs, all in hopes that it makes traveling to that location easier for the next person.

Olson doesn’t always follow the “accessible” path though.

Checking out things on her own, she has tried many trails that do not boast accessibility, but she thought looked flat enough for her chair. This way she opens up more options for people in the future who check out her site.

Not every path she tries ends up being chair-friendly.

“I’ve definitely got myself into jams,” she said. Olson explained how she has ended up with her wheels stuck, falling out of her chair, even losing a shoe. But her love of adventure propels her forward.

Local opportunity Staunton State Park near Pine started its track chair program in 2017, which allows people with limited mobility the freedom to explore trails of the park. Track chairs are all-terrain wheelchairs.

The program currently has four chairs, with another one on the way, and recently gave one to Barr Lake State Park near Brighton. Track chair program manager Natalie Burnside-Bostow says this chair hand-off was an

important step in the program’s mission of accessibility.

“One of our biggest goals is to continue to see our program spread to other parts (of Colorado), and to see other parts of Colorado build these types of programs,” Burnside-Bostow said.

The program at Staunton sees people of all ages and all ability levels.

“We get everything. Last weekend I had a 2-year-old, the week before that I had someone that it was their 91st birthday,” Burnside-Bostow said.

Most importantly, the program looks to break down barriers that many people with disabilities face in accessing the outdoors.

In working with this program, Burnside-Bostow explains that while there may be perceived roadblocks, “No matter what the activity, there is a way to adapt the activity so everyone can participate.”

The National Sports Center for the Disabled is an organization based in Denver that offers outdoor experiences across Colorado for people with disabilities.

During their fall/winter season, the NSCD offers rock climbing, hiking/snowshoeing, adaptive alpine and cross-country skiing, shooting sports and more.

Kim Easton, the CEO for the NSCD, says that the programs the organization offers keeps people coming back.

“The majority of our individuals, once they find us and try something…..they kind of get hooked.”

The NSCD is powered by volunteers that share their passion for sports and outdoors. The organization is coming up on its 52nd year of operation.

SEE RESOURCES, P13

Elbert County News 13

November 18, 2021

READY TO RETURN TO

Timothy P. and the Rocky Mountain Stocking Stuffers will bring country music to the Lakewood Cultural Center on Dec. 4-5.

COURTESY OF LAKEWOOD CULTURAL CENTER

Country music to enliven weekend

T

imothy P. and the Rocky Mountain Stocking Stuffers, a 10-piece band, will perform country music at Lakewood Cultural SONYA’S Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, at 2 SAMPLER p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 4 and 2 p.m. on Dec. 5. Included: Jon Chandler, Ernie Martinez, Mary Huckins. Tickets start at $22. 303987-7845, lakewood. org/LCCPresents.

Masks required.

Sonya Ellingboe

‘A Hudson Christmas’ Hudson Gardens, 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, presents acres of dazzle after a two-year hiatus. A family of giant glowing snowmen are new this year. Doors open at 5 p.m. Last call for entry is 9 p.m. with curfew at 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 for dated tickets, $12 for ages 4-12, free 3 and under. $20, $17 for undated tickets (nifty holiday gift).

Nixon’s Coffee House will be open to serve warm beverages.

illuminated landscapes for these tiny critters., which I recall from a Pennsylvania childhood, but they don’t normally exist in Colorado.

Dec. 17 to Jan. 2, 6-10 p.m. Admission, member adults, $15, member children, $10, member seniors, $11; non-member adults, $20, non-member children, $12, non-member seniors, $13. butterflies.org/event/ living-lights.

SoSu Collective The SoSu Collective, a group of South Suburban art teachers, will hold two Holiday Art Markets this year at Streets of Southglenn, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Unit 306, Centenial. Reception: Nov. 26, 5-8 p.m.; market hours: Nov. 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Nov. 28: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Dec. 4: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Dec. 5: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

New at Littleton Museum “The Secret Life of Clothes,” through November, and “Own An Original,” through Dec. 31 at the Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton. Admission free. tinyurl.com/4mn8dwf6, 303-795-3950.

Fireflies fest The Butterfly Pavilion, 6252 W. 104th Ave., Westminster, presents two weeks of Living Lights Festival with a search for the Firefly Princess. Biofluorescent animals and glowing exhibits light pathways that will include

Magic show at Holiday Theatre Colorado Stars of Magic: Shane Cohen, Jeff Jenson, Brad Montgomery, Max Davidson, Richard Kwesell, Dave Elstun, Scott McCray will perform a family show at 7 p.m. on Nov. 27 at the Holiday Theatre, 2644 W. 32nd Ave., Denver,

RESOURCES

parks, public lands, and other outdoor areas,” according to the program’s website.

This program could prove instrumental in helping disabled youths be able to experience the outdoors in Colorado.

Kenny Maestas is the legislative coordinator for the Colorado CrossDisability Coalition. He has been working on the grant program with representatives and senators from

FROM PAGE 12

Moving forward The Outdoor Equity Grant Program, established by Colorado House Bill 21-1318, wants to “increase access and opportunity for underserved youth and their families to experience Colorado’s open spaces, state

CO, 80211. Tickets, $32, coloradostarsofmagic.com, 720-680-0729.

Englewood Arts Presents Hampden Hall, 1000 Englewood Parkway, level 2: Nov. 20, 2 p.m.

Seogoen Min, cello and HisaoLing Lin, piano. Tickets: $10-$30.

Music by Debussy, Martinu and Mendelssohn. December 18: cellist Silver Ainomae and Friends, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Tickets: $10, $20, $30. Eric Bertoluzzi, 303-806-8196, englewoodarts.org.

Guitars at Denver Museum “Guitar: The Instrument that Rocked the World” opens Nov. 19 at Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd., featuring 60 instruments and exploring the cultural and physical history of the guitar. Strum the world’s largest playable guitar — 43.5 feet long. dmns.org/guitars.

‘Potter’ at DU’s Newman Center “Potted Potter — the Unauthorized Harry Experience — a Parody

by Dan and Jeff” will play Jan. 4 to 9 at the Newman Center at the University of Denver. Combines all seven books in 70 minutes! newmancenterpresents.com or 303-871-7720. Tickets start at $36.99.

While the COVID-19 pandemic continues, public events frequently are canceled or rescheduled. Check with organizers before you go.

Colorado, making sure the CCDC is heard.

The grant coalition is made up of board members, including youth seats. Maestas said he sees the importance of young people being able to have access to the outdoors in a geographically diverse state.

“And to live in one of the most beautiful states and never get to experience anything is a crime, I think,” Maestas said.

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14 Elbert County News

November 18, 2021

MELODRAMA FROM PAGE 1

From left, leading lady Kristi Strachan (Star Bright), Debbie Maul (Dee Caff), and PHOTOS BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON Sarah Malerich (Barb Dwyer) in “Pony Expresso.”.

NEVER PAINT AGAIN

Many of the cast members have been working together for years.

Three members of the cast (Linda Ehmann, Debbie Maul and Betty Hood) have participated in the Kiowa Creek Community Theater for over 20 years, with Betty Hood being the oldest participating member at 83 years of age.

In addition to acting in the play, most of the actors are also involved in creating the sets, decorating the performance hall, and preparing meals for the two dinner theater performances. They are also responsible for breaking down the set and the hall after the close of the final performance.

The actors also do an excellent job of making each performance unique and different. Though the play consists of hundreds of written lines, the Kiowa Creek Community Theater actors rely heavily on improvisation.

Full of jokes and puns, the actors throw out many quirky asides to the audience, breaking the “fourth wall” that typically separates performers from viewers.

“I won’t tell you how much I flubbed up!” said Eric Whitman, actor for the part of Mo Cabana. “It is all so different every night.”

“We started practicing in September of this year. We practice out the bazunga!” said director Ehlers.

“These are adults though. They have jobs and some have children at home. They don’t have time to memorize everything. That’s why

we have prompters to both sides of the stage.”

When asked if there were any standout moments of the weekend, Ehlers said that the clear winner was the malfunction of Eric Whitman’s fake mustache.

“Eric’s fake mustache came off in the first act when actress Kristi Strachan’s character (Star Bright) threw coffee onto him. His mustache fell halfway off!” said Ehlers. “So many lines were improvised around that falling mustache that the first act went eleven minutes longer than usual!”

Commissioner and theater volunteer Pettitt expressed his feelings about the sense of community surrounding the play.

“Everyone involved spends a lot of time and effort preparing for the play every year,” said Pettitt. “The yearly melodrama creates a fun atmosphere for people to enjoy an evening out.

We don’t have a lot of things like this out here in Kiowa, so the play gives a little change for people in the community.”

Locals and out-of-towners alike enjoyed this year’s melodrama. “It was so hilarious!” commented Elbert County local Linda Staley. “This is the best one we’ve been to in the six years we’ve been coming to this theatre.”

Jennifer and Mitch Flatland traveled from Black Forest, a small town northeast of Colorado Springs, to watch the performance. “We saw an advertisement in the paper and thought it would be a fun time,” said Linda Flatland. “It was so funny and is definitely living up to our expectations!”

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Audience for the Thursday night performance of “Pony Expresso.”

. t n e d Confi Raising a family as a single father, Michael wanted his kids to have a stable home and great schools in a safe community. With help from people like you, they are now living a life filled with love, hope, and purpose.

Help us, help each other. Visit CCharitiesCC.Org

Give hope. Rise.

Elbert County News 15

November 18, 2021

ADOPTION FROM PAGE 1

After becoming foster parents five years ago, Christie and Maggie decided to pursue adoption in order to keep sibling groups together. In addition to caring for more than 35 children and youths in foster care over the years, they have adopted eight children younger than age 7 and continue to care for young people in foster care.

In addition to having a house full of children, Christie and Maggie provide a home to five dogs — including a trained service dog — and many farm animals. Christie and Maggie say the presence of animals is therapeutic for the children.

Christie and Maggie Duffy moved to Elbert County in January 2016, deciding that the rural lifestyle would be best for their future family.

“All of the kids came with some sort of trauma, like homelessness or domestic violence,” said Christie Duffy. “The rural life is so therapeutic. We feel that it is so great and rewarding for the kids.”

Christie answered questions about her family’s experience with fostering and adoption in a Nov. 8 interview with the Elbert County News: What made you decide to be foster/adoptive parents?

We actually got married in April 2016. We had talked about possibly of having biological children but because of the move to Colorado, job transfer, and the recent loss of my dad, I was afraid.

We kind of looked at each other

at the end of the day and decided that fostering and adopting was our best option. We figured we could start with fostering and get our feet wet before jumping into adopting.

We could learn how to be parents without fear of “what if I’m not good at this”?

We had so much support from people to teach us how to do this whole thing. We fostered 20 to 25 foster kids during our first two years!

Why did you choose to adopt siblings?

We moved to Elbert County so we would have more space to foster siblings. We learned that sometimes the foster system would actually separate siblings. We had four siblings put with us.

We now have three sets of siblings now. Eight of them have been formally adopted. We have made it our duty to provide for them. If we get calls and they need our support with a placement, we will be there. Our thought is “see a need, fill a need.”

We knew that if we fostered siblings and they could stay together, why not do that? We made it our purpose.

What are some of the highlights of fostering and adopting?

Our favorite highlight that we love is watching the kids overcome their adversity. We have a kiddo that we were told was never going to walk.

Well, he’s walking. We were told he was never going to talk. Well, he’s talking.

All of our kids have special needs.

They’ve either been exposed to drugs and alcohol in utero, have experienced domestic abuse, and generally have various traumas. We love when they finally see the light at the end of

The Duffy kids dressed and ready for 2021 Halloween.

the tunnel. Graduating from various therapies, be it occupational, verbal, emotional, etc. It is so exciting!

What are the challenges you’ve faced with fostering?

Our biggest challenge was when biological families found out that their kids were with an LGBTQ+ family. There are also a lot of people out here who don’t have a lot of experience with LGBTQ+ families, especially with various services. It’s hard to find support in a small, rural, conservative place.

What advice do you have for potential foster/adoptive parents?

I recommend finding a good support system. Find people that know what the system is like. Find an agency who will support you and fits your needs. If you are an LGBTQ+ couple, find a good fit for you. If you are looking to go from foster to adoption, or not, there are agencies for you.

COURTESY OF THE DUFFY FAMILY

Below are Colorado adoption and fostering statistics: Adoption from foster care in Colorado • Since January 2021, 551 Colorado children and youths in foster care have been adopted.

• Currently there are 436 Colorado children and youths who are waiting for a family/adoption.

• There are 3,878 children and youths in foster care or another type of out-of-home placement.

• Colorado has 2,559 certified foster and kinship (relatives, friends, neighbors, etc.) families.

To read the state’s CO4Kids blog about the Duffy family and their foster and adoption experience, visit tinyurl.com/duffyfamily.

For an FAQ on Colorado adoption, visit tinyurl.com/adopt-foster-faq.

To follow the Duffy family on social media, you can find them on both Instagram and TikTok as TheDuffyDozen.

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C R O S SWO R D P U Z Z L E The Colorado Center for the Blind in Littleton.

PHOTO BY DAVID GILBERT

A Colorado Community Media special report online STAFF REPORT

They came to the Colorado Center for the Blind seeking confidence.

They left traumatized.

Sexual abuses were kept quiet for decades at the world-renowned school for the blind in Littleton, former students and employees allege.

More than a dozen previously unreported instances of sexual misconduct and abuse spanning at least two decades at the Colorado Center for the Blind have surfaced during an internal investigation of the school’s parent organization.

Among the offenses were the alleged sexual assault of a 13-year-

old girl by a summer youth camp counselor in 2001, a teacher accused of sexually harassing students in 2019 who was hired despite school leadership allegedly knowing he had faced accusations of unwanted sexual contact at another school, and a teacher who admitted he engaged in a sexual relationship with a 19-yearold student in violation of school policy.

Reporter David Gilbert has been investigating for several months.

Read his report — a collaboration of Colorado Community Media and The Colorado Sun — at ColoradoCommunityMedia.com.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 Legals City and County Public Notice TOWN OF ELIZABETH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS Notice is hereby given that the Planning Commission and Board of Trustees shall hold public hearings concerning a proposed amendment to the Town’s Land Development Code concerning parking space requirements, pursuant to the Town of Elizabeth Land Development Ordinance.

The public hearings are to be held before the Planning Commission on December 7, 2021 at 6:30 p.m., and Board of Trustees on December 14, 2021 at 7:00 p.m., or as soon as possible thereafter. The public hearings shall be held in the Town Hall, 151 S. Banner Street, Elizabeth, Colorado, or at such other time or place in the event this hearing is adjourned. Further information is available through the Town Community Development Department at (303) 646-4166.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS MAY ATTEND. Legal Notice No. 24742 First Publication: November 18, 2021 Last Publication: November 18, 2021 Publisher: Elbert County News

FURTHER, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed amended budget has been submitted to the District for the fiscal year of 2021. A copy of the proposed amended budget has been filed in the office of Marchetti & Weaver, LLC, where the same is open for public inspection. Such proposed amended budget will be considered at the meeting of the District to be held at 1:00 PM on November 19, 2021. Any interested elector within the District may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2021 budget amendment.

Directors and members of the public that wish to participate in the meeting may do so via teleconference by dialing +1 669 900 6833 and entering Conference ID: 825 8167 7107 or videoconference on https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82581677107.

This meeting is open to the public.

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELKHORN RANCH M METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 1 By: /s/ LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL E. DAVIS, LLC Legal Notice No. 24741 First Publication: November 18, 2021 Last Publication: November 18, 2021 Publisher: Elbert County News

Water Court Public Notice

Metro Districts Budget Hearings

DISTRICT COURT, WATER DIVISION 1, COLORADO

Public Notice

OCTOBER 2021 WATER RESUME PUBLICATION

ELKHORN RANCH METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 1 NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING AND NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED 2022 BUDGET NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO 2021 BUDGET November 19, 2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of Elkhorn Ranch Metropolitan District No. 1 (the “District”), County of Elbert, State of Colorado, will hold a special meeting at 1:00 PM on November 19, 2021 for the purpose of conducting such business as may come before the Board. Pursuant to § 32-1-903 CRS, as amended, the District’s meetings may also be conducted electronically, telephonically or by other virtual means.

FURTHER, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed budget has been submitted to the District for the fiscal year of 2022. A copy of the proposed budget has been filed in the office of Marchetti & Weaver, LLC, 28 2nd St, Edwards, CO 81632, where the same is open for public inspection. Such proposed amended budget will be considered at the meeting of the District to be held at 1:00 PM on November 19, 2021. Any interested elector within the District may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2022 budget.

TO: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN WATER APPLICATIONS IN WATER DIV. 1 Pursuant to C.R.S. 37-92-302, you are notified that the following is a resume of all water right applications and certain amendments filed in the Office of the Water Clerk during the month of OCTOBER 2021 for each County affected.

21CW22 RONALD AND PATRICIA KORSCH 5315 County Rd 142, Elizabeth, CO 80107 303-641-6986 rfkco@hotmail.com APPLICATION FOR UNDERGROUND WATER RIGHTS IN THE DENVER BASIN AQUIFERS IN ELBERT COUNTY. Name of Structure: Korsch Well located SE1/4 SW 1/4, S4, T8S, R64W of the 6th PM in Elbert County, Colorado, excepting and reserving an easement for ingress and egress to the NE 1/4 SW1/4 of said S4, over and across a tract of land 30 feet wide and 30 feet long in the NE corner of the SE1/4 of SW1/4 of said S4, T8S, R64W of the 6th PM except any portion thereof lying within County Road 142 1/2 also known as County Rd 142, County of Elbert, State of Colorado. Parcel of land consists of 40 acres of land; Well Permit 140348 WATER RIGHTS CLAIMED OR HERETOFORE ADJUDICATED THE WATER RIGHTS CLAIMED BY THESE APPLICATIONS MAY AFFECT IN PRIORITY ANY WITHIN THIS DIVISION AND OWNERS

legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com

OF AFFECTED RIGHTS MUST APPEAR TO OBJECT WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY STATUTE OR BE FOREVER BARRED. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that any party who wishes to oppose an application, or an amended application, may file with the Water Clerk, P. O. Box 2038, Greeley, CO 80632, a verified Statement of Opposition, setting forth facts as to why the application should not be granted, or why it should be granted only in part or on certain conditions. Such Statement of Opposition must be filed by the last day of DECEMBER 2021 (forms available on www.courts.state.co.us or in the Clerk’s office) and must be filed as an Original and include $192.00 filing fee. A copy of each Statement of Opposition must also be served upon the Applicant or Applicant’s Attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service of mailing shall be filed with the Water Clerk.

Legal Notice No. 24739 First Publication: November 11, 2021 Last Publication: November 11, 2021 Publisher: Elbert County News Public Notice DISTRICT COURT, WATER DIVISION 1, COLORADO OCTOBER 2021 WATER RESUME PUBLICATION TO: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN WATER APPLICATIONS IN WATER DIV. 1 Pursuant to C.R.S. 37-92-302, you are notified that the following is a resume of all water right applications and certain amendments filed in the Office of the Water Clerk during the month of OCTOBER 2021 for each County affected.

21CW3198 BLACK SUN LLC, PO Box 1869, Elizabeth, CO, 80107. James J. Petrock, Eric K. Trout, Hayes Poznanovic Korver LLC, 1999 Broadway, Suite 3200, Denver, CO, 80202.

APPLICATION FOR AMENDMENT OF A PRIOR DECREE IN ELBERT COUNTY. Subject Property: Approximately 640 acres generally located in all of Section 17, Township 6 South, Range 64 West of the 6th P.M., Elbert County, Colorado as shown on Exhibit A (“Subject Property”). Applicant is the sole owner of the Subject Property.

Decree for Which Amendment is Sought: Case No. 1989CW236, decreed on July 31, 1990, associated with the Subject Property (“89CW236 Decree”). No objections were filed to the application in Case No. 1989CW236 and no wells have been drilled in Section 17 pursuant to the 89CW236 Decree. Applicant is the owner of all the notnontributary Lower Dawson Aquifer groundwater underlying the Subject Property as evidenced by the quit claim deed attached as Exhibit B. Jurisdiction: The Court has jurisdiction over the subject matter of this application pursuant to C.R.S. §§ 37-90-137(6), 37-92-203(1), 37-92-302(2). By contractual agreement, as amended, Exhibit C, Arapahoe County Water and Wastewater Authority (“ACCWA”), as owner of all the water rights not deeded to the Applicant, has consented to allow the Applicant to withdraw all of the not-nontributary Lower Dawson Aquifer groundwater underlying Parcel-M, which includes the Subject Property, as described in the 89CW236 Decree as follows: Paragraph 7.B.c Parcel-M: 1,920 acres in all of Section 17, the w1/2 of Section 20, all of Section 29, and the E1/2 of Section 31, Township 6 South,

Range 64 West of the 6th P.M. Paragraph 7.C Lower Dawson Aquifer

4855 Private Rd 192, Elizabeth, CO 80107, 720284-1373 diannejz987@yahoo.com

Parcel Designation

APPLICATION FOR UNDERGROUND WATER RIGHTS IN THE DENVER BASIN AQUIFERS IN ELBERT COUNTY. Name of Structure: Johnson Well located NE 1/4, SW 1/4, S5, T6S, R64W of the 6th PM in Elbert County, distances from section lines 2400 Ft from South Section line and 2500 ft from West Section line. One well located on property; Parcel of land consists of 35 acres of land; Well Permit 263359 Depth to bottom of well 645 ft; pumping Rate 15 gpm; amount claimed in acre-fee annually 1, single family dwelling; watering domestic animals, recreational, lawn and garden irrigation on 2 acres; fire protection-system

Parcel-M Acreage

Sand Thickness 85 feet Specific Yield 20% Average Annual Amount 326 acre-feet Requested Change to the 89CW236 Decree: Applicant requests that 108 acre-feet annually of not-nontributary Lower Dawson Aquifer groundwater be removed from the 89CW236 Decree, and be made available for the drilling of exempt wells, or any legally allowed exempt purpose, for use on the Subject Property. The volume will be allocated at 0.169 acre-feet per acre across the Subject Property. No other provisions of the 89CW236 Decree will be changed. Applicant requests the Court approve the above decree amendment, find that Applicant has complied with C.R.S. § 37-90-137(4) and water is legally available for withdrawal, find there will be no material injury to the owners of or persons entitled to use water under any vested water right or decreed conditional water right, and grant such other and further relief as is appropriate. 3 Pages.

WATER RIGHTS CLAIMED OR HERETOFORE ADJUDICATED THE WATER RIGHTS CLAIMED BY THESE APPLICATIONS MAY AFFECT IN PRIORITY ANY WITHIN THIS DIVISION AND OWNERS OF AFFECTED RIGHTS MUST APPEAR TO OBJECT WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY STATUTE OR BE FOREVER BARRED. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that any party who wishes to oppose an application, or an amended application, may file with the Water Clerk, P. O. Box 2038, Greeley, CO 80632, a verified Statement of Opposition, setting forth facts as to why the application should not be granted, or why it should be granted only in part or on certain conditions. Such Statement of Opposition must be filed by the last day of DECEMBER 2021 (forms available on www.courts.state.co.us or in the Clerk’s office) and must be filed as an Original and include $192.00 filing fee. A copy of each Statement of Opposition must also be served upon the Applicant or Applicant’s Attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service of mailing shall be filed with the Water Clerk.

Legal Notice No. 24740 First Publication: November 11, 2021 Last Publication: November 11, 2021 Publisher: Elbert County News Public Notice

WATER RIGHTS CLAIMED OR HERETOFORE ADJUDICATED THE WATER RIGHTS CLAIMED BY THESE APPLICATIONS MAY AFFECT IN PRIORITY ANY WITHIN THIS DIVISION AND OWNERS OF AFFECTED RIGHTS MUST APPEAR TO OBJECT WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY STATUTE OR BE FOREVER BARRED. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that any party who wishes to oppose an application, or an amended application, may file with the Water Clerk, P. O. Box 2038, Greeley, CO 80632, a verified Statement of Opposition, setting forth facts as to why the application should not be granted, or why it should be granted only in part or on certain conditions. Such Statement of Opposition must be filed by the last day of DECEMBER 2021 (forms available on www.courts.state.co.us or in the Clerk’s office) and must be filed as an Original and include $192.00 filing fee. A copy of each Statement of Opposition must also be served upon the Applicant or Applicant’s Attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service of mailing shall be filed with the Water Clerk.

Legal Notice No. 24738 First Publication: November 18, 2021 Last Publication: November 18, 2021 Publisher: Elbert County News

Notice to Creditors Public Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of BERNARD JOSEPH FELDT, also known as BERNARD J. FELDT, also known as BERNARD FELDT, Deceased Case Number: 2021PR30040 All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before March 11, 2022, or the claims may be forever barred.

DISTRICT COURT, WATER DIVISION 1, COLORADO OCTOBER 2021 WATER RESUME PUBLICATION TO: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN WATER APPLICATIONS IN WATER DIV. 1 Pursuant to C.R.S. 37-92-302, you are notified that the following is a resume of all water right applications and certain amendments filed in the Office of the Water Clerk during the month of OCTOBER 2021 for each County affected.

Erin Suzanne Bieker, Personal Representation 11914 E. State Highway 86 Franktown, CO 80116 Legal Notice No. 24735 First Publication: November 11, 2021 Last Publication: November 25, 2021 Publisher: Elbert County News

21CW20 STEVE D and DIANNE L JOHNSON,

Elbert County Legals 11.18.21 * 1

20 Elbert County News

November 18, 2021

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Sunday Dec. 12

8am - 4pm

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8am - 2pm

Douglas County Fairgrounds 500 Fairgrounds Dv. Castle Rock, CO.

Come shop for unique gifts and special items during the annual Colorado Community Media Holiday Craft Show and Mini-Market; With more than 100 exhibitors filling the Douglas County Fairgrounds, this is the best place to find that special, personal gift for friends and family. The show will feature handmade crafts in all areas from metal and leather, to flowers, baskets, ceramics, and so much more.

Bright Little Brains Rozanne Steyn Brightlittlebrains.com

Carol’s Creative Cards Carol Smith Cjaysmith.com 303-886-6730

Discovery Toys

Julie Olivett - Team Leader 303-437-7067 YourToyLady.com

Nerdy Sheep Fiber Arts Nerdysheepfiberarts.com info@nerdysheepfiberarts.com

Suelyn’s Creations

Suelyn Gnormley 720-201-3930 facebook.com/SuelynsCreations

ADMISSION IS FREE TO THE PUBL

Vendor applications being accepted now.

Apply Today Contact Event Producer Thelma Grimes at tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com All applications must be approved to participate