$1.00
Week of March 10, 2022
ELBERT COUNTY, COLORADO
A publication of
ElbertCountyNews.net
VOLUME 127 | ISSUE 4
County seeks consultant on housing Comprehensive plan’s section on housing has not been updated since 2009 BY SCOTT GILBERT SGILBERT@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
An aerial view shows downtown Elizabeth, the area where the Main Street Streetscape upgrades are planned.
COURTESY OF KEN HANES
Public invited to learn about Streetscape plan Elizabeth Town Hall will host kickoff meeting to explain design ideas, process BY SCOTT GILBERT SGILBERT@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
The kickoff meeting for Elizabeth’s Main Street Streetscape program, an ongoing effort to revital-
ize the downtown area, will be open to the public at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 10 in Elizabeth Town Hall, 151 S. Banner St. In what is described as a “predesign” meeting, the March 10 discussion will introduce the design process for the Streetscape project, which the town says “will involve field work, coordination with Main Street residents and businesses, and the creation of engineering and design plans. Design options, cost estimates, construction schedule, and phasing will be explored.”
INSIDE: CALENDAR: PAGE 7 | VOICES: PAGE 8 | LIFE: PAGE 10
The town is seeking a Revitalizing Main Streets grant through the Colorado Department of Transportation to help pay for the project. Streetscape project construction is expected to begin next year, with money from town funding and grants. Upgrades will include “bulbouts” at intersections — rounded corners that will extend into the roadway, reducing pedestrian walkway distance by more than half and increasing safety. SEE STREETSCAPE, P3
The Elbert County government is looking for a qualified consultant to prepare an assessment of the county’s housing needs amid continuing growth, according to an announcement on the county’s website. The announcement of a request for proposals states that the county’s current comprehensive plan is nearly four years old, and the housing section of the plan has not been updated since 2009. “With over a decade of subsequent business and population growth, the county and municipalities need a renewed understanding of the interplay between housing, workers, wages, lifestyle, and policy to shape and guide the next decade of growth,” the announcement says. Elbert County has seen doubledigit decade-over-decade growth in every U.S. Census since 1980. The two biggest spurts were a 76% increase from 1970 to 1980 and a 106% spike from 1990 to 2000. The rate of growth has slowed markedly in the 21st century, climbing 16% from 2000 to 2010 and 13% from 2010 to 2020. The population is estimated at about 28,000 now, roughly seven times the population in 1970. The county’s request for bids for a housing needs assessment can be found at tinyurl.com/elb-consult.
RISE OF THE MONARCHS
Scientists hopeful that butterflies could make a comeback P10
2 Elbert County News
March 10, 2022
Ski and Boot Lab stays true to form Highlands Ranch business provides mounts, bindings and fittings BY RACHEL LORENZ SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA
KC McCallum refinishes the base of a ski.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF SKI & BOOT LAB
Local company, Veteran owned, Integrity focused
SOLAR SYSTEMS
For KC McCallum, the hardest part of starting his own business was naming it. The Highlands Ranch resident opened Ski & Boot Lab in 2016 after nearly 25 years of working in the ski industry — an industry he finds fun and feels lucky to be a part of. While considering names, McCallum’s brothers gave him some advice. Also small business owners, they cautioned him not to use his name but to pick something that could show up organically in potential customers’ internet searches. So McCallum took inspiration from the shop’s location instead. After looking at expensive warehouse spaces, McCallum found a laboratory to rent in a commercial building not far from Highlands Ranch Town Center. It had sturdy countertops and cabinets, ventilation, even an eyewash station. “Everything I needed” to house ski tuning equipment and set up a workshop, McCallum said. Now in its sixth season, Ski & Boot Lab mounts bindings, fits boots and tunes skis for Highlands Ranch and beyond. It has demo gear from top brands like Atomic, Blizzard, Nordica, Lange and K2 available for rent, as well. “It’s like renting a Mercedes, BMW, Audi or Porsche,” McCallum said of the 60 or so high-end skis he purchases annually for the shop. But Ski & Boot Lab doesn’t stock merchandise for sale. Not a lip balm, sock or insole, McCallum said. However, he does sell off his demo equipment at the end of the season and can special-order items for customers. Voted “Top of the Town” for ski and snowboard service in 2020 and 2021 by readers of 5280 magazine, McCallum likes to think he’s known for his honest opinion, quick turn-
Ski & Boot Lab is open 4-7 p.m. on weekdays and from noon until 5 p.m. on Saturdays.
around and skillful tuning. “I think people take me at my word,” when it comes to advice about equipment, he said. “I don’t have anything to sell, you know.” The shop is open 4 to 7 p.m. on weekdays, noon to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and at other times by appointment. Although that’s only 20 hours a week, 16-hour days are not unusual for McCallum during the season. There’s plenty to buff, scrape and sharpen when he’s not with customers, especially in a thin snow year like this year. McCullum has one employee, a buddy, who helps with waxing skis and snowboards, but McCallum does all other mounting and tuning work himself. He barely minds the extreme hours though, he said, because the hours are spent doing something he enjoys. Plus he has slow summers to rest, relax and spend with family. In recent years they’ve traveled to Florida for his daughter’s cheer competitions, toured Iceland and explored Colorado’s backcountry. “You’ll see me at the pool in June or whatever,” McCallum said. “I hike, bike, climb, run, ski. It’s kind of a balance there.” Before opening Ski & Boot Lab, McCallum worked for Colorado Ski & Golf, Sports Authority Elite and Gorsuch Ltd. where he built connections and developed expertise. He started in the ski industry while he was still a student at Highlands Ranch High School and said he’s never had a job that actually felt like a job. “The 1 a.m. stuff? It’s a little long,” McCallum said of the late nights in his lab. “But I think it’s some of the funnest times.”
FROM $
1,949 *
1,699 *
$
FREE ONBOARD CREDIT
Residential and Commercial Connects to CORE and Xcel VOTED BEST ROOFING COMPANY TWO YEARS IN A ROW! THANK YOU.
CALL NOW FOR MORE INFORMATION
303-770-ROOF w w w.Va l o r Ro o f a n d S o l a r.c o m
GRAND ALASKAN CRUISE & TOUR 12 days, departs May - September 2022
Seattle • Vancouver • Ketchikan • Juneau • Skagway • Glacier Bay • Anchorage • Denali • and more — Visit Denali National Park and Glacier Bay National Park on the same incredible trip! Cruise through the Gulf of Alaska and the Inside Passage as you discover the best of the Frontier State by land and by sea. TM
promo code N7017
1-866-943-9321
* Prices are per person based on double occupancy plus $299 in taxes & fees. Single supplement and seasonal surcharges may apply. Add-on airfare available. Onboard Credit requires purchase of Ocean View or Balcony Cabin. Offers apply to new bookings only, made by 3/31/22. Other terms & conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.
Elbert County News 3
March 10, 2022
Plans for the Streetscape project call for “amenity zones” with benches, planters and IMAGES COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF ELIZABETH trees.
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Douglas County celebrates the diverse contributions, capacity and value of our residents with developmental disabilities. Thank you for what you bring to our community. This month, the Board of County Commissioners is formally recognizing these residents’ contributions and commending the community organizations, agencies and programs that support them throughout the year. For more information visit douglas.co.us and search for Developmental Disabilities.
Business Personal Property Tax Declarations due by April 15 A town document shows revitalized parking and bulbout plans for downtown Elizabeth.
STREETSCAPE FROM PAGE 1
Planned improvements also include a continuous six-foot walkway, angled 40-degree parking, and “amenity zones” five and a half feet wide. The amenity zones will include benches, improved lighting, planters and trees. “The Main Street Streetscape project has the potential to create a safe, walkable, and attractive corridor which will better serve residents, visitors and business owners alike,” town planner and project manager Zach Higgins wrote to the Elbert County News
last month. “The project could make Main Street more accessible and vibrant for generations to come.” The March 10 meeting is the first of three scheduled to present information about the Streetscape project to the public. The town’s online schedule shows the second and third meetings with undetermined dates in July and October. The town urges any member of the public who cannot attend a meeting but has questions about the project to contact Higgins at zhiggins@townofelizabeth.org or 303-725-7496. The town’s announcement of the March 10 meeting can be found at tinyurl.com/streetscape-launch.
2022 Business Personal Property Tax Declarations may be filed online at DouglasFilesOnline.org Business owners who own or lease business personal property with a total market value of greater than $50,000 must report the property to the County Assessor (valuation was raised in the 2021 legislative session from $7,900 to $50,000). For more information visit douglas.co.us/assessor
Interested in becoming a foster parent or adopting a child? Information nights are open to anyone interested in learning about foster care and adoption. Information nights are free and remote via Zoom on March 14 from 6-7:30 p.m. For information call 303.636.1KID or register online at collaborativefostercare.com and select Information Night.
SCFD Free Days Want to learn more about history, spend time appreciating abstract or contemporary art or get in touch with nature? SCFD organizations have your entrance fee and cultural passions covered. For more information including specific dates and locations - visit scfd.org
LOG HOMES PAY ONLY THE BALANCE OWED!
JUST RELEASED: AMERICAN LOG HOMES is assisting estate and account settlement on houses
LOG HOME KITS
selling for BALANCE OWED with FREE DELIVERY Model Model Model Model
#101, Carolina, $40,840 #203, Georgia, $49,500 #305, Biloxi, $36,825 #403, Augusta, $42,450
NEW HOMES:
BALANCE OWED $17,000 BALANCE OWED $19,950 BALANCE OWED $14,500 BALANCE OWED $16,500
Serious Inquiries only
Call: 704 368-4528
. Never been manufactured . NO TIME LIMIT FOR DELIVERY . Comes with complete building blueprints and Construction Manual
* Windows, Doors and Roofing not included
Before Calling View House Plans at
www.americanloghomesandcabins.com
Do you have... Mysterious insects? Trees in trouble? A need for gardening advice? CSU Extension is here for you. We provide answers and education. For more information call 720-733-6930 or visit https://douglas.extension.colostate.edu
Visit douglas.co.us
4 Elbert County News
March 10, 2022
Election workers could get new protections against threats, doxxing Colorado House Bill 1273 would make it a crime to threaten an election worker BY JESSE PAUL THE COLORADO SUN
THINNING FORESTS. STARVING WILDFIRES. Experts in Defensible Space & Forest Restoration. Scrub Oak Mowing
720-556-4922
www.acetreecareservices.com
SEE ELECTIONS, P5
PRESENTS
Election officials process ballots for the 2020 election at the Douglas County Office of the Clerk and Recorder in Castle Rock, Oct. 30, 2020. PHOTO BY KEVIN MOHATT/SPECIAL TO THE COLORADO SUN
Threatening a Colorado election worker in an attempt to keep them from doing their job or in response to them performing their official duties would be a crime under a bill introduced by Democrats in the state legislature. House Bill 1273 would also prohibit people from publicly posting the personal information — such as their address, telephone number or photo — of an election official or their immediate family if doing so poses an imminent and serious safety threat. “The reality is we do have to have this conversation, given what’s been happening in the country over the last couple of years,” said Senate President Steve Fenberg, a Boulder Democrat and prime sponsor of the bill. “I think it’s important to be extra clear that we do have additional protections for people who work to make sure our democracy functions.” The bill comes amid a yearslong effort by the legislature to create new protections for government workers, be they elected officials or those in public health, against threats and doxxing. It also comes during a push by state lawmakers this year to provide more security for Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat who has been the target of death threats stemming from conspiracy theories about the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. In fact, secretaries of state and election workers across the U.S. have faced a sharp increase in threats following the last presidential election. The General Assembly already approved money to let Griswold hire private security guards and monitor threats in the coming months, and now lawmakers are slated to pass Senate Bill 133, a bipartisan measure that would cost about $800,000 and direct the Colorado State Patrol to offer security services to the secretary of state, state treasurer and the attorney general similar to the protection they already offer state lawmakers. “The intentional spread of elec-
tion conspiracies has fueled unprecedented violent threats toward g election officials, which show no r signs of stopping,” said Annie Orloff, a spokeswoman for Griswold. “These s t threats are not ‘business as usual’ and serving in elected office should C not require signing up for threats of s violence without support.” s Orloff sent The Colorado Sun R screenshots of recent social media S threats leveled against Griswold, including ones calling for her to be t C hanged or shot for treason. During a recent Colorado gathering u $ of a far-right group that embraces b conspiracies about the 2020 election, one speaker said that “if you’re i involved in election fraud, then you d d deserve to hang.” There is no proof of fraud in the 2020 presidential election that would p have overturned the results. Presi- p dent Joe Biden won the presidential o contest in Colorado, as well as nation- c o ally. o i ‘Current statutes are narrow’ State Rep. Emily Sirota, a Denver t Democrat who is also a prime spon- f sor of House Bill 1273, said the cur- H rent threat environment is exactly a e why her bill is necessary. f “I think it’s critical that all those involved in elections can do their jobsu without fearing for their safety,” she O said. She said her bill, which is supb ported by the Colorado Municipal League, would create a “clear path t forward for prosecutors seeking to prosecute these types of threats,” and t thus make the pursuit of criminal charges more likely. “Senate Minority Leader Chris Holbert, R-Douglas County, said he agrees with the spirit of House Bill 1273, but wonders if it’s needed. Colorado already has laws against threatening or intimidating people and elected officials. “It may be a bit of a statement bill,” he said, “but I agree that elected officials shouldn’t be threatened.” Sirota points out that her bill would protect unelected election workers and judges in addition to elected election officials. And she says the measure would provide broader protections for election workers. “While it is already a crime to threaten violence against people in
APRIL 8 8:00 p.m. Since rocketing to stardom by winning the TV competition Star Search back in 1984, Sawyer Brown has been thrilling audiences with their legendary live shows and long string of chart topping country hits, including #1 hits "Step That Step," "Some Girls Do," and "Thank God for You."
BUY TICKETS NOW AT PARKERARTS.ORG OR 303.805.6800
Elbert County News 5
March 10, 2022
ELECTIONS
Adams County Election Judge Douglas Cuillard runs incoming envelopes through an automated sorting machine Nov. 1, 2018. The machine slices open ballot envelopes with their addresses hidden, letting Cuillard or other judges remove the ballots in their security sleeves. They were taken to another judge, where they were removed from their sleeves and were prepared for counting.
FROM PAGE 4
general … current statutes are narrow,” she said. The Colorado County Clerks Association is seeking amendments to House Bill 1273. Its leader, Matt Crane, did not respond to messages seeking comment. House Bill 1273, whose prime sponsors also include Democratic Rep. Monica Duran and Democratic Sen. Brittany Pettersen, would make threatening an election worker a Class 2 misdemeanor punishable by up to 120 days in jail and/or up to a $750 fine. Doxxing an election worker by publicly posting their personal information would be a Class 1 misdemeanor, with a penalty of up to 364 days in jail. The measure would include a presumption that disseminating the personal information of an election official or their immediate family constitutes an imminent and serious safety threat if a federal, state or local law enforcement agency has issued a safety warning that applies to the election official. Last month, for instance, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a threat alert warning that “domestic violent extremists” have continued to spread false or misleading narratives about unsubstantiated election fraud. Other election-related bills at the Capitol A number of other election-related bills are being considered by the leg this year. Fenberg plans to introduce legislation in the coming days that would
TAKE OUT
FILE PHOTO
set clear boundaries for people who administer elections in Colorado and enact criminal penalties, perhaps even felony ones, for people who “threaten the integrity of our elections or potentially manipulate the elections.” It would also require election officials to undergo training on misinformation and disinformation. The measure appears aimed at responding to the situation surrounding Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, a Republican who has spread baseless conspiracies about the 2020 presidential election result and is being investigated for alleged being behind a security breach of her county’s election system. “It’s about making sure that folks who want to serve as a designated election official follow some basic criteria and basic standards,” Fenberg said. State Rep. Ron Hanks, a Fremont County Republican running for U.S. Senate this year, unsuccessfully pushed House Bill 1085, which would
have required that Colorado elections be administered through paper ballots with ballot fraud countermeasures, such as optically variable ink, holographic images and embedded/ stealth numbering. Hanks, who has embraced baseless claims about the 2020 presidential election being stolen, is also a prime sponsor of House Bill 1204, which would roll back Colorado’s mail-in ballot system, require that ballots be hand counted and require that voters have a state-issued ID to vote. The measure hasn’t been scheduled for a hearing but it’s certain to fail in the Democraticcontrolled legislature. This story is from The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support The Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun.com. The Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.
10% OFF All Family Party Packs
Mon, Tues, Wed only. VALID March 14, 15, 16. Must bring coupon. One Coupon good for entire party. Coupon not valid for Online Ordering or Delivery
$15 bottles of Wine & $2 Beers are Take Out Only!
TAKE OUT AVAILABLE OPEN FOR PATIO, TAKE OUT, AND DELIVERY.
11 AM - 2 PM
4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
10335 S. Parker Rd., Parker 303-805-9742
MAKE YOUR DREAMS A REALITY WITH A BELLCO
Use our calculator to see how much you may be able to borrow against the equity in your home.
Bellco.org/Calculate The accuracy of this online tool and its applicability to the information provided is an estimate and is not guaranteed. Your actual available equity could vary based on many factors. All loans are subject to approval. Membership eligibility is required. Speak to a Bellco Financial Specialist for more information.
6 Elbert County News
March 10, 2022
State’s missing workers may just be disengaged BEST OF THE BEST
2022 BEST OF THE
BEST VOTE NOW! Through April 15th
ElbertCountyNews.net To provide the most accurate results by geographical area, Colorado Community Media does not require, but does encourage readers to vote for businesses in their immediate local community. All nominated businesses have an equal opportunity of winning, no purchase required. Please see voting website for complete contest rules and regulations.
Colorado has recovered 95.3% of jobs lost in COVID pandemic BY TAMARA CHUANG THE COLORADO SUN
Scratch that old 2021 stat that Colorado has recovered 89% of jobs lost in the early days of COVID. The state did even better, according to new revisions that were just announced. We’re at 95.3% recovered. More on that below. But first, is the answer to the nation’s worker shortage to have more babies, process immigration visas faster and figure out how to engage workers again? Economists over at EMSI, a research firm that analyzes labor data, presented those data points in “The Demographic Drought” and discussed the findings this week. The question on everyone’s mind was how employers and the community can figure out what happened to the missing workers. “It’s the great enigma right now. Everybody is trying to figure out the answer to this,” said Hannah Grieser, an EMSI senior labor market analyst during an online presentation Thursday. “Really what we need to talk about is how multifaceted the solutions are going to have to be because we’ve got people on the sidelines for a whole variety of reasons.” While the U.S. birth rate is at record lows and 4 million immigration visas are stuck in processing, those aren’t going to be fast solutions, according to the report. It’s not just parents who dropped out because of child care issues either because that’s only about 5% of the labor force, she said. And it’s not just about people who are collecting unemployment. “It really is about addressing those unengaged people rather than just the unemployed because we have fewer people unemployed than we have job openings,” she said. “We’d need 4 million additional people to fill that job openings gap.” There were 2 million people receiving unemployment benefits in the U.S. as of Feb. 5, and 11 million job openings, according to EMSI. The missing workers show up in the nation’s labor force, which has shrunk by nearly 800,000 people since Jan. 2020. Colorado is doing better than the nation. The state reached its highest labor force level in December, with 3.2 million people, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. But compared to before the pandemic, fewer working-age adults are now “participating” in the labor force by working or looking for work. The state’s labor force participation rate was 68.3% in December, compared to 68.9% in Dec. 2019. Some suggested solutions Down-credentialing job postings: Be realistic about what the job entails. Does it really need someone with eight years of experience and a bachelor’s degree? Grieser said
‘It really is about addressing those unengaged people rather than just the unemployed because we have fewer people unemployed than we have job openings.’ Hannah Grieser, EMSI senior labor market analyst
some employers are realizing that some requirements are really “just nice to have.” Be flexible on hours and location: Remote jobs exploded during the pandemic so workers who prefer that will look for those opportunities. Hybrid work weeks have become popular with both workers and employers. Go after people. “Stop putting signs in your windows,” said Ron Hetrick, EMSI’s senior labor economist. “I’m not dissing job boards but you have to have a way of driving people to (the job). We keep talking about recycling the same workers (who apply to online jobs). That’s not working … We have to do something to get to those people who are disengaged.” Why Colorado’s job recovery is at 95.3% Every month, new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides a sense of how many jobs have come — or gone. Last month, its survey of business establishments showed that Colorado had added back 335,589 jobs since March and April 2020 when business closures went into effect to limit the spread of COVID-19. Then this week, as it happens every month, the data is changed. More bits of information had come in. Revisions were made. Numbers were adjusted. The revision found that more jobs had returned from July to September than previously counted. Industries with higher numbers included professional and business services (up 10,300), construction (up 4,800), education and health services (up 3,800) and a few others. But just as some went up, others went down, including trade, transportation and utilities (down 3,200), and government (down 2,100). The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment suspects that mining and logging jobs may be lowered in future revisions. Ryan Gedney, CDLE’s senior economist, had a hunch this would happen. The revisions bumped up the state’s pandemic job recovery rate to 95.3%, from 89.3%. “Our expected revision estimates have been fairly consistent throughout the year, where it appeared that (BLS’ Current Em-
ployment Statistics) was underestimating monthly total nonfarm employment levels by approximately 20,000, on average,” Gedney said. And, as he always does, he said the data could be revised again. But these numbers are more on target with his own estimates. “The December 2021 recovery rate will differ once benchmarking is completed and that data released, but should be fairly close to the figure calculated with the expected revisions,” he said. Unemployed must still use IDme The Internal Revenue Service said it will stop using the controversial IDme identity verification service on taxpayers, but the state Department of Labor has no plans to follow suit. At least not yet. “As of today, there are no changes planned to the identity verification process used for unemployment claimants,” according to the emailed reply from CDLE. The IRS dropped facial-recognition service IDme due to privacy concerns. All states were forced to set up an identity verification system last year in order to receive federal money to distribute pandemic unemployment and prevent fraud. Colorado picked IDme, which relies on personal data, like credit reports, and a video camera to verify that a person is who they claim to be. But it was a mess as a backlog of unemployed workers rushed to get their identities verified, though not all successfully. According to the state’s Daily Dashboard, only 15.4% of unemployment applicants who were told to use IDme did get verified, or 404,829 identities out of 2,631,696 claimants who tried, as of Feb. 25. The state felt IDme did its job to block fraudsters from making a false claim using someone else’s identity. Colorado now requires all unemployment applicants to pass IDme verification. This story is from The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support The Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun. com. The Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.
Elbert County News 7
March 10, 2022
powered by
Thu 3/10 Soccer: Kinder - Ages 4 to 6 Spring 2022
Featured
Featured
Sun 3/13 SOC: Parents Night Out, Kids Night In @ Eisenhower @ 12am Mar 13th - Mar 12th Eisenhower Recreation Center, 4300 E. Dartmouth Ave., Denver. 720-913-0654
@ 12:30am Mar 10th - May 14th Auburn Hills Community Park, 11682 Brad‐ bury Ranch Rd., Parker
Marty NIghtengale
Flag Football: Kinder - Ages 4 to 6 Spring 2022
@ 12pm Wide Open Saloon, 5607 US-85, Sedalia
@ 12:30am Mar 10th - May 14th Auburn Hills Community Park, 11682 Brad‐ bury Ranch Rd., Parker
Tito Nieves @ 7pm Stampede, 2430 S Havana St, Aurora
Media Luna
Featured Futurebirds @ 8pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood
Featured
Dirty Side Down Band: Dirty Side Down @ Blu Note @ 7pm Blu Note Bar & Grill, 19600 Solar Cir, Parker
Sat 3/12 Featured
Futurebirds
@ 7pm Stampede, 2430 S Havana St, Aurora
Mon 3/14 Camp: KidStage Stars: Moana (612yrs) @ 2pm Mar 14th - Mar 18th PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
Camp: Voice and Speech for Actors (12-18yrs)
@ 1pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood
@ 6pm Mar 14th - Mar 17th PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker
Featured
Tue 3/15
Futurebirds
SOC: Family Cooking Class @ Harvard Gulch
@ 8pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 South Broadway, Englewood
@ 10pm Mar 15th - Mar 24th Harvard Gulch Recreation Center, 550 E. Iliff Ave., Denver. 720-913-0654
Fri 3/11 Featured
Laurie D
Wed 3/16
@ 2pm Bemis Public Library, 6014 S Datura St, Littleton
DJ Rockstar Aaron: Forbidden Bingo at 'Bout Time Pub & Grub
Lacrosse: Kinder - Ages 4 to 6 Spring 2022
The King Stan Band Live at the Goose
@ 3:45pm Mar 12th - May 7th Auburn Hills Community Park, 11682 Brad‐ bury Ranch Rd., Parker
@ 7pm Wild Goose Saloon, Parker
Featured
@ 7pm Bout Time Pub & Grub, 3580 S Platte River Dr A, Sheridan
Thu 3/17 Featured
Featured
5 Days in the Skinny Jeans of an Artist @ 12am / Free Mar 11th - Mar 16th Offsite - Details will be provided, To be provided. 303-471-3000 Parcels
Phil Wickham - Hymn of Heaven Tour
@ 8pm Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐ wood
@ 7pm / $19.95-$75 Cherry Hills Community Church, 3900 Grace Blvd, Highlands Ranch
Natalia Jimenez, Guardianes del Amor, La Nueva Sonora de Cali
Josh Baldwin @ 7pm Cherry Hills Community Church, 3900 Grace Blvd, Highlands Ranch
@ 9pm / $60 Stampede, 2430 South Havana, Aurora
Friday Movie- House of Gucci - 3 pm @ 10pm Heather Gardens Clubhouse, 2888 S. Heather Gardens Way, Aurora
Vamonos Pest/Mobro: Mobro at Brewability Lab @ 6pm Brewability Lab, 3445 S Broadway, Englewood Alacranes Musical @ 9pm Stampede, 2430 S Havana St, Aurora
The best place to promote your events online and in print. Visit us @ https://littletonindependent.net/calendar
Dear Marsha,: DM and her Freaky Band @ Celtci House Pub @ 6pm Celtic House Pub, 16522 Keystone Blvd, Parker Twenty Hands High: St. Patrick's Day - Shamrocks & Shillelaghs @ 8pm Mick Mullen’s Irish Bar, 3467 S Broadway, Englewood
powered by
8 Elbert County News
I
LOCAL
Women march on
n March, we celebrate women in history, which was also one of my favorite classes in college. Learning the timeline of how and when we got our right to vote, when we entered the workforce and how we have transformed society by generation is fascinating to me. FROM THE In some interviews I recently attended EDITOR with two Castle View High School interns, we talked to several generations of women on how education has changed throughout history. It was fascinating to listen to a woman raised during the World War II era vs. the millennial now. Our Silent Generation guest talked about how being proper was much more important than an education. She talked about her dad telling her she was here to Thelma Grimes get married and have children. She did not attend college. She talked about how much she loved her job at a bank that she had to quit once she became pregnant, noting that even though she was married, women did not show their pregnancies in public. Then, we talked to her daughter who was told by her parents that they had a savings account that was supposed to go toward her wedding. Instead, her parents agreed to let her go to college. She, being in the baby boomer generation, was the only female in the engineering program. For the millennial female, there was no other option. Her parents made it clear she would go to college, and she would succeed on her own merits. For me, there are so many women that I have come to know and respect over the years. It is hard to list all of them. First, I will list my mom. She did not have a career or go to college, but she raised me and my brothers and quite a few other kids in and around our family. While I just call her mom, many kids around me called her “Step-in-Mom” or “Pattymom.” I never wanted to be a stay-at-home mom like her. What I truly respect about my mom is that she accepted that I did not want the same path as she and other women in my family. While she did not completely understand my career ambitions, she supported them. She helped me reach my goals and I respect and appreciate her for doing that for me. She had to wait a long time for grandkids, but I eventually fulfilled that dream for her. Besides my mom, I must bring up the women I currently work with at Colorado Community Media. In the media industry, it is no secret that is has been a male-dominated field. Women have steadily worked their way up. At Colorado Community Media, I could not be prouder of the changes that have taken place in 2021 and 2022. We have Linda Shapley serving as our publisher, bringing decades of experience. We have Lisa Schlichtman serving as our executive editor, bringing decades of experience. We have Kristin Fiore and myself serving as regional editors, bringing decades of experience. And, we have a slew of young journalists who I cannot brag about enough. In the south, we have Jessica Gibbs and Elliott Wenzler making us proud week after week. It would take a lot more space to list all the amazing women we have working hard in every department to get the news to you every week but they all deserve praise and adoration. The women at CCM are strong, dedicated and born leaders and I am proud to call all of them my work family. (Editor’s Note: Thelma Grimes is the South Metro Editor for Coloroado Community Media. She can be reached at tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com)
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
March 10, 2022
VOICES LETTER TO THE EDITOR CSP seeks help in reducing fatalities Over the last few months, I have asked the motoring public to join the Colorado State Patrol in driving down the number of fatalities on our state’s roadways. While I firmly believe this effort can only be realized through a majority of our drivers consciously participating through safe driving behavior, I also want to share how your Colorado State Patrol members are taking action. Law enforcement agencies across the nation are experiencing the same strain on their workforce that most industries are facing, so the Patrol is working strategically to do more with less. We have leaned into what our agency’s crash investigation data is telling us, so we can focus our enforcement on the most predictable behaviors that cause serious crashes in Colorado. In addition, we are advancing our use of data to pinpoint where and when crashes are most prevalent. In late 2021, the Colorado State Patrol initiated surge operations in predictable, high crash areas and these efforts yielded the best possible result - no fatalities in those areas.
Troopers continue to couple what we learn from our data with their knowledge of local traffic patterns and problem areas. This complete approach allows our members to build a more impactful enforcement plan and remain visible. Yet, we will always need your partnership. As we continually improve what we can gain from our data, implement intermittent surge operations and steadily grow back our number of troopers, we also have to accept that the quality of our lives greatly depends on individuals. Drivers collectively decide how safe or how dangerous our roadways will be each time the ignition turns over. Whether there are 100 Colorado State Troopers or 10,000, there will never be a law enforcement officer at every mile marker to catch every bad action. Your Colorado State Patrol will commit to working smarter with every resource at our disposal. Now this is where you come in. Join us in making Colorado a safe place to drive again. Col. Matthew C. Packard Chief of the Colorado State Patrol
Grandparents as co-pilots
W
hat is more heartwarming than a grandchild’s laughter or joyful embrace? As grandparents, we enjoy our grandchildren and the happiness they bring us and we are saddened when they are struggling. Although we may not anticipate having difficult conversations with our grandchildren, there are times when events occur that we may not feel adequately prepared to respond. The world we live in has become more anxiety-provoking and complicated, including for today’s grandchildren. Being mindful that how we as grandparents experience life on a daily basis is not necessarily how our grandchildren may be experiencing their daily lives; their world is different than our world. A parent’s divorce, death of a loved one, feelings of depression and anxiety, these are a few situations that may make for difficult conversations with a grandchild. Cyber bullying, social media, the threat of school shootings, the COVID pandemic- our grandchildren have become part of an adult world while still children. At these times, it may be difficult knowing what to say and what to do. When a grandchild confides in a grandparent, he/she must feel safe and secure in the relationship, and confident that a grandparent can help them sort through their feelings. Even if a grandparent may not feel confident, and may not have all the answers, using a few guiding principles will help to be better prepared to provide comfort in their grandchild’s time of need. These challenges present opportunities for growth, where grandchildren can learn confidence in facing problems and experience a sense of competency, essential to the development of their self-esteem. How can that happen? With a grandparent as a co-pilot alongside their grandchild to help them navigate turbulent times together.
LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher
LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager
lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com
lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com
LISA SCHLICHTMAN Editor-in-Chief
ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant
lschlichtman@coloradocommunitymedia.com
eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com
THELMA GRIMES South Metro Editor
AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager
tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com
abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com
SCOTT GILBERT Editor
ERIN FRANKS Production Manager
sgilbert@coloradocommunitymedia.com
efranks@coloradocommunitymedia.com
The relationship between parent and child, and grandparent and grandchild, is different, in a good way. Grandchildren can feel freer to share their innermost feelings with a grandparent without feeling the pressure they are disappointing or worrying their parents. Grandparents are a valuable resource in a supportive role as their grandchildren Linda L. are learning how to deal with their feelings, developing Van Meter, problem-solving skills and coping strategies, and learning about perspective. Grandparents may think they are unable to relate to the challenges our grandchildren face, however, feelings of anxiety, sadness, fear and being overwhelmed are universal; the settings may be different, but the feelings are the same. Grandparents can share their experience with a similar situation to their grandchildren and how they handled their emotions. Leading by example, a grandparent can share how they also cope with worry or sadness and what they do to feel better. Reassurance goes a long way in helping a child to cope with feelings. Creating an atmosphere that encourages communication early in the grandparenting relationship is important. Providing a non-judgmental setting for conversation and questions, where grandparents are good listeners, are interested in the smallest details of their grandchildren’s lives, and where grandchildren are encouraged to express feelings about anything, establishes a safe place for them to vent. With unconditional love, grandchildren are more apt to open up and talk about their intimate feel-
LIVING AND AGING WELL
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.
SEE VAN METER, P9 ELBERT COUNTY NEWS (USPS 171-100) A legal newspaper of general circulation in Elizabeth, Colorado, the Elbert County News is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media, 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225, Englewood, CO 80110. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address change to: Elbert County News, 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225, Englewood, CO 80110
Elbert County News 9
March 10, 2022
Colorado may be the next state to decriminalize ‘magic’ mushrooms New research shows potential benefits from psychedelic fungi BY THY VO THE COLORADO SUN
It wasn’t just the painful tumors or medication that made Alan Floyd sick. It was the idea that death could come at any time, a brutal fact of his condition that came to dominate his days and grew into night terrors during his sleep. “It was this monstrous, impending doom of death hanging over me,” Floyd said. But Floyd found a way to interrupt the cycle of rumination and fear by experimenting with “magic” mushrooms. He’s one of many patients and spiritual seekers in Colorado who have sought healing and relief from mushrooms and other psychedelic substances, despite a federal prohibition. Although recent research showing the healing potential of these drugs has spurred renewed interest, mushrooms and naturally derived psychedelics like mescaline, ibogaine and dimethyltryptamine, or DMT, have been used by people for centuries. -It’s only in the past 50 years that they were considered illegal. Now advocates are hoping Colorado will join Denver and a growing number of cities and states that are decriminalizing mushrooms and other psychedelics. They’re working on initiatives that, if approved for the November ballot, would ask voters to eliminate criminal penalties under state law for possession, use and cultivation of certain psychedelic substances. The statewide effort comes after psychedelic drug advocates successfully passed a 2019 Denver measure that decriminalized adult possession and use of psilocybin, the psychoactive substance in so-called magic mushrooms, and made it the lowest priority for local law enforcement. But disagreements are forming already among advocates backing the effort, who remain divided over what statewide decriminalization should entail. Kevin Matthews, a proponent of Denver’s 2019 decriminalization measure, is pushing initiatives to
VAN METER FROM PAGE 8
ings, their secrets, and what is troubling them the most, while seeking acceptance and approval to validate their feelings. Key points to remember: Tailor responses to the age and level of the grandchild. Be present in the conversation, listen attentively and without judgment, lead with empathy, be accepting (even if you don’t understand the situation), give reassurance, be genuine, allow for silence. Try different settings, taking a walk, playing a game or engage in an activity while having a conversation. The good news is that grandchildren
create a regulatory system that would allow people 21 and older to seek psychedelic therapy at statesanctioned centers. “They’re not a panacea,” Matthews said. “But I think we have an opportunity to powerfully treat a lot of mental health conditions.” Four initiatives have been approved by the state Title Board, and advocates are debating which one to petition onto the statewide ballot in November. Another camp of activists has put forward their own measure, which is still under review, that would decriminalize mushrooms and three other psychedelics without calling for further state regulations. The move to decriminalize magic mushrooms in Colorado comes as Denver and jurisdictions across the U.S. have enacted laws to legalize use of psychedelic substances. In 2020, Oregon voters passed measures legalizing psilocybin-assisted therapy at state-sanctioned centers and personal possession of small amounts of certain drugs. Voters in Washington, D.C., also passed an initiative decriminalizing possession of naturally derived psychedelics. Advocates in California are gathering signatures for a decriminalization initiative for the November ballot. Shannon Hughes, an associate professor of social work at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, said that, outside of studies and clinical trials, underground guides have long been helping people access psychedelics to treat health issues, explore their spirituality and experiment recreationally. Hughes serves on the board of a Colorado group that promotes safe exploration of psychedelics. “There are folks who have been doing this work for a very long time, but because it’s underground, they can’t really talk about their experience without fear of criminal risk,” Hughes said. “All we get access to is how it’s getting medicalized.” In the 14 years since doctors told Floyd that he was unlikely to survive the large tumors growing on his spine, some which divide his spinal column and are too dangerous to remove, he tried 16 psychiatric drugs and opioid painkillers to treat his pain and distress. The now 57-year-old Colorado SEE MUSHROOMS, P15
have grandparents as co-pilots! Linda L. Van Meter, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist in private practice, retired Director of Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) and OASIS (Office of Disability Services), The Office of Accessible Services Individualized for Students East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania. Please join us for our next virtual online presentation April 7 at 10 a.m. when Dr. Linda Van Meter will present about difficult conversations with grandkids and younger generations. This column is hosted by the Seniors’ Council of Douglas County. For more information, please visit www. MyDougCoSeniorLife.com, email DCSeniorLife@douglas.co.us or call 303-663-7681.
Denver was the first U.S. city to decriminalize possession and use of psilocybin in May 2019. Some advocates, pursuing statewide initiatives, hope to see the decriminalization of “magic mushrooms” and other psychedelic compounds statewide. PHOTO BY OLIVIA SUN/THE COLORADO SUN VIA REPORT FOR AMERICA
Memory In Loving
Place an Obituary for Your Loved One. 303-566-4100 obituaries@coloradocommunitymedia.com Self placement available online at ElbertCountyNews.net
10 Elbert County News
LOCAL
March 10, 2022
LIFE
After decades of decline, populations flutter back. BYLUKEZARZECKI LZARZECKI@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Walk into Westminster’s Butterfly Pavilion and head into Wings of the Tropics, where about 2,000 butterflies flutter in a tropical garden filled with plants, trees and humidity. Near the entrance there is a hatching exhibit
where cocoons transform into butterflies. Peer in the window next to the display, and Shiran Hershcovich may be working in the lab with others to make community science come alive. Hershcovich is a lepidopterist, a person who studies butterflies and moths, and most recently, she discovered monarch butterflies may be making a comeback in Colorado. “We are enthused to find that monarchs in Colorado showed an approximate 180% increase from the mean over the past seven years of our monitoring efforts,” Hershcovich said. This rise in monarch numbers in the state is the most significant increase in the past 30 years, according to the 2021 Colorado Butterfly Monitoring Network report. The network — which Hershcovich describes as “peoplepowered” — sends community scientists out into designated areas and trails to count butterflies across Colorado. Butterfly-monitoring programs also operate across the country, including California, Florida, Illinois, Michigan and Texas.
This is the ninth annual report from the network, and 2021 stood out as having the highest number of volunteer hours recorded since the program’s inception. Important invertebrates As pollinators, butterflies help keep ecosystems alive, Hershcovich explained. By pollinating native plants, they are propagating biological systems, and they serve as important food sources at every step in their life cycle. They also indicate healthy ecosystems because
‘They can be a great gateway point into loving insects.’ Shiran Hershcovich, Lepidopterist
butterflies are picky eaters. The monarch’s host plant is milkweed, and it will only reproduce on milkweed. Therefore, if its host plant is decimated, the butterfly will be the first to disappear. In addition, butterflies help connect people to species of insects. “They are great ambassador animals,” Herschcovich said. “They can be a great gateway point into loving insects. If we started SEE MONARCH, P11
e
olhous
ho The Sc
PACE Center
One night. Two great local music options! You choose: Jazz or Classical! Tickets at PARKERARTS.ORG or 303.805.6800
Elbert County News 11
March 10, 2022
MONARCH FROM PAGE 10
with roaches, it would be pretty hard to get people on board.” The monarch’s steady decline According to Herschcovich, there are two populations of monarch butterflies: Eastern monarchs and Western monarchs, with the Rockies sitting in between the two. And while the recent increase in monarchs is promising news, Herschcovich noted the species has been in a steady decline for decades. Since the 1980s, the Western monarch saw its population decline by 99%, and the Eastern monarch population has decreased by around 80% since the 1990s, Hershcovich said. Even so, the species continues to be denied federal protection from the Endangered Species Act. “Monarchs are one of them too, but they just didn’t make it to the priority, and they didn’t meet all the criteria, I guess,” she said. Without government protection, Hershcovich said, conservation becomes vitally important, and that’s where community science can make a difference. Volunteer conservationists Community scientists can be anyone — a neighbor, a teacher, the average Joe. All it takes is some time to train and explore. Steve Chady, the Pavilion’s longest serving volunteer at eight years and a wannabe lepidopterist since age 12, is one of those community scientists. Between May 15 and Sept. 15, he heads out to Broomfield County Commons Park
six times to complete the same walk while counting as many butterflies as he sees. “If you enjoy outdoors and you’re passionate about the environment, it’s a way to contribute to conservation,” Chady said. “Everyone comes with a built-in scientist,” Hershcovich said. “Science is just being curious and having that sense of exploration and looking for answers.” Without 61 volunteers counting butterflies across Colorado, the monitoring study would not be possible, and the effort is always looking for more volunteers. In total, the group counted 124 Eastern monarchs in Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Douglas, El Paso, Gilpin, Jefferson, Larimer, Ouray, Routt and Weld counties. “We only know those numbers because of community scientists, so it’s people dedicated to the cause, who are going out and donating their time to count monarch populations,” Herschcovich said. She said the percentage increase in monarchs recorded this year took into account volunteer hours to provide a more accurate number. Because the report relies on volunteers, some years see more hours counting butterflies than others. Counting butterflies aids conservation efforts. Herschcovich noted that conservation can seem like a major problem with only major solutions, and she sees that line of thinking applied to climate change as well. Yet, she believes some answers can be simpler than most folks may think. “Community scientists really take matters into their own hands and revolutionize what we can do for conservation,” she said.
Climate change, wildfires, droughts, urbanization, herbicides and many other factors contribute to the decline of butterflies, and Hershcovich said it all comes down to habitat. “When there are big droughts and water sources disappear or diminish, the host plant (ex. Milkweed) habitat also diminishes, and when we expand urban zones, we also essentially erase healthy habitat for monarchs, and when we plant gardens instead of planting native plants — we put grassy lawns — that’s also removing additional habitat,” she said. She said the 2019 and 2020 fire seasons were probably linked to the large declines during those years. On the flip side, she explained the increase in monarchs — both nationally and across the state — is likely due to more favorable climate conditions
such as milder temperatures during the breeding season and better rainfall. She also noted decreased use of pesticides and more monarch conservationists planting milkweeds and native flowering plants to support the species as other factors contributing to the rise in monarch numbers. “While it’s difficult to point to a single cause of increase, it’s likely an aggregation of behaviors and conditions that have boosted monarch numbers around the country,” she said. Colorado residents can help restore monarchs and other butterflies by planting native plant species in their own yards, and the Pavilion has those plants for sale in the spring. “Everyone gets to participate in creating a safer world for monarchs and invertebrates in general, and really ecosystems,” Herschcovich said.
Part-time Evening Trash Collector Up to $19/hour, 2-3 hours a night starting at 8pm. Doorstep trash collection within assigned apartment communities.
Apply now: valetliving.com/careers or contact jennifer.munoz@valetliving.com for more information!
Call to get an ADT Security $100 ADT Visa Reward Card System + Get a $100 ADT FREE * Visa Reward Card FREE *
$100 value
BONUS
†
ADT Visa Reward Card
ADT’s 24/7 monitoring plus top of the line security cameras help ensure your loved ones are safe – whether you’re out and about or in the next room.
*With 36-month monitoring contract. Early termination and installation fees apply. Reward card issued by MetaBank®, N.A., Member FDIC. Card terms and expiration apply. For full terms, see below.
*With 36-month monitoring contract. Early termination and installation fees apply. Reward card issued by MetaBank®, N.A., Member FDIC. Card terms and expiration apply. For full terms, see below.
Call today to speak with a home security expert
1-877-219-6861
*$100 ADT Visa Reward Card: Requires 36-month monitoring contract starting at $28.99/mo. (24-month monitoring contract in California, total fees from $695.76), and enrollment in ADT EasyPay. Requires minimum purchase price of $449. One (1) Visa Reward Card valued at $100 is redeemable seven (7) days after system is installed, wherein an email is sent to the customer’s email address associated with their account with a promo code. The customer must validate the promo code on the website provided in the email and a physical card will be sent in the mail. Installation must occur within 60 days of offer expiration date to receive card. Applicable to new and resale sale types only. Card is issued by MetaBank®, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will forfeit after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. Interactive Services: ADT Command Interactive Solutions Services (“ADT Command”) helps you manage your home environment and family lifestyle. Requires purchase of an ADT alarm system with 36-month monitoring contract ranging from $45.99-$59.99/mo. with QSP (24-month monitoring contract in California, total fees ranging $1,103.76-$1,439.76), enrollment in ADT EasyPay, and a compatible device with Internet and email access. These interactive services do not cover the operation or maintenance of any household equipment/systems that are connected to the ADT Command equipment. All ADT Command services are not available with all interactive service levels. All ADT Command services may not be available in all geographic areas. You may be required to pay additional charges to purchase equipment required to utilize the interactive service features you desire. General: Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. System remains property of ADT. Local permit fees may be required. Prices and offers subject to change and may vary by market. Additional taxes and fees may apply. Satisfactory credit required. A security deposit may be required. Simulated screen images and photos are for illustrative purposes only. ©2021 ADT LLC dba ADT Security Services. All rights reserved. ADT, the ADT logo, 800.ADT.ASAP and the product/service names listed in this document are marks and/or registered marks. Unauthorized use is strictly prohibited. Third-party marks are the property of their respective owners. License information available at www.ADT.com/legal or by calling 800.ADT.ASAP. Licenses: AL 233, 234, 458, 506, 1519, CA ACO7155, 974443, PPO120288; FL EF0001121; LA F1639, F1640, F1643, F1654; MA 172C; NC Licensed by the Alarm Systems Licensing Board of the State of North Carolina; 2736-CSA, 2397-CSA, 2381-CSA; NJ Burg & Fire Business Lic. #34BF00048300, 200 East Park, Ste. 200, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; NY 12000305615; PA 090797; MS 1501951. DF-CD-NP-Q421
12 Elbert County News
March 10, 2022
C R O S SWO R D P U Z Z L E
Located in Canon City, the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility, shown here in a Dec. 9, 2020, photo, is the state’s oldest prison. Built in 1871, it preceded the state’s MIKE SWEENEY/SPECIAL TO THE COLORADO SUN admission to the Union by five years.
College in prison could see boost Colorado may expand education for incarcerated BY JASON GONZALES CHALKBEAT COLORADO
In bringing college classes to more incarcerated people, Colorado officials hope to both enlighten students and cultivate significant social benefits. The federal government plans to almost double the number of colleges nationwide offering incarcerated people the ability to earn a college degree and to enable them to once again qualify for federal Pell Grants to cover tuition and other educational expenses. In Colorado, several institutions have indicated interest in joining, and state officials hope they can offer four-year degrees to students. So far, only Trinidad State College in southern Colorado has participated in the federal Second Chance Pell Experimental Sites Initiative.
Graduate Demitrius Herron, 23, said the program feels more like a first chance at a good education for many. Herron entered the Youthful Offender System at age 17. During his six-year sentence, he said he took numerous classes, eventually taking advantage of the Trinidad State Second Chance Pell program. He graduated with two associate degrees — one in science and one in the arts. He said the program takes people at their lowest point, “and someone says to you, ‘Hey, here’s my hand. Let me help you up.’” Numerous studies have shown the benefits of prison education, including lowered social costs and recidivism rates. About 90% of incarcerated people will be released from prison, said Melissa Smith, Colorado Department of Corrections assistant director of prison programs. This story was originally published by Chalkbeat Colorado. More at chalkbeat.org.
Answers
THANKS for
PLAYING!
© 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.
Solution
CLASSIFIEDS
Elbert County News 13
March 10, 2022
COLORADO COMMUNIT Y MEDIA
CAREERS
MARKETPLACE
REAL ESTATE
SERVICE DIRECTORY
Careers
Market Place
Pets
Help Wanted
Merchandise
Dogs
Special Education Teacher For a significant needs program located at the Strasburg Elementary School. Current Colorado Special Education Teacher license required. BA salary range $34,650-$40,950 & MA salary range $39,900$46,200, based on experience. Excellent benefits. Collaborative work environment with lots of free continuing education opportunities available. May be eligible for Student Loan Forgiveness. Questions contact Tracy at (719) 775-2342, ext. 101 or tracyg@ecboces. org. Please complete a Certified application located at the bottom of the “Jobs” page on ecboces.org or email tracyg@ecboces.org. Equal Opportunity Employer.
Firewood
Public Works Operator The Town of Elizabeth Public Works Department is seeking an individual who is organized and self-motivated for an entry-level full-time position. The preferred applicant should have at least one (1) year of experience in, but not limited to: assisting in park mowing, trimming, building maintenance, light and heavy equipment operation, equipment maintenance and repair, water meter reading, sewer and water mainline repairs, minor water and wastewater plant repair and maintenance, minor landscape type equipment repairs, and general labor for the department. Preferred applicant to be considered is to be within 30 minutes of the Town of Elizabeth, CDL Class B (or able to obtain a CDL Class B within 1 year of accepted hire/training provided by the Town) and to be available if needed to work during weekends and Holidays along with any needed overtime. A background check and references will determine final eligibility. Please inquire with the Public Works Director for more detailed information at 303913-6453. Valid Driver’s license required. Hourly salary starting at $19.23 per hour DOQ and includes current Town benefits EOE/M/FV. Applications will be accepted until the job is filled. Send resume and completed town application to Town of Elizabeth/Public Works Director Mike DeVol. Town of Elizabeth PO Box 159/151 Banner St. Elizabeth, CO 80107, Fax to 303-646-9434 or Email to mdevol@townofelizabeth. org
Doodle Puppies
Split & Delivered $350 a cord Delivery $50. Stacking $50 Call 303-647-2475 or 720-323-2173
Miscellaneous Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author`s guide 833-719-3029 or visit dorranceinfo.com/acp
Paying top cash for men’s sportwatches! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Day-tona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. Call 833-603-3236
Golden Doodles and Bernedoodles Home-Raised Heath Tested and Guaranteed Standard and Mini Size available Schedule a visit today! (970)215-6860 www.puppylovedoodles.com
Transportation Autos for Sale 1992 Corvette 124K miles. Fantam green. Runs great! New computer. Asking $6,500. Call 720-872-1941
Carpet/Flooring
Put on your TV Ears & hear TV w/ unmatched clarity. TV Ears Original - originally $129.95 - now w/this special offer only $59.95 w/code MCB59! 1-833-530-1955 Hero takes stress out of managing medications. Hero sorts & dispenses meds, sends alerts at dose times & handles prescription refill & delivery for you. Starting at $24.99/month. No initiation fee. 90-day risk-free trial! 1-888-684-0280 Scrap Metal, Batteries, Appliances, Wiring, Scrap Plumbing/Heating, Cars/Parts, Clean out Garages/Yards, Rake, Yard work done w/chainsaw, Certified Auto Mechanical / Body Work & paint available Also can do inside or outside cleaning 303-647-2475 / 720-323-2173
Contact Erin, 303-566-4074 eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com Roofing
Hail & Storm Damage Repairs & Replacements Insurance Claims Roof Financing Options
303-425-7531 Concrete/Paving
•All Concrete •Tear Out •Patios •Driveways
•Curb & Gutter •Walls •Anything Concrete
Ty Barrett
Carpet Solutions
Lawn/Garden Services
Landscape & Garden
TLLC Concrete 303-646-2355
Sod, Rock, Mulch, Retaining Walls, Sprinklers, Sprinkler Repair, Flagstone, Fence Repair, Power Rake, Fertilize, Aeration, Yard Clean-Ups, Shrub Trimming/Removal, Rock Removal, Weed Control, Trash Hauling and Much More! Senior Discounts Year Round!
720-982-9155 lawnservice9155@q.com Tile
ANYTHING TILE
● Marble ● Repairs ● Granite Counter Tops
Specialize in barn floors, Driveways, Remove and replacement
Remodeling is my specialty! Call now for free estimate
(303) 646-0140
Any job over 400 SF give us a call!
• CARPET REPAIRS •RE-STRETCHING • PET DAMAGE
n:
Call Ke
720-244-3623
Need to get the word out? Advertise with us to find your next great hire!
Concrete/Paving
On The Level Concrete All types of Concrete Work
·
Driveways
·
Patios
·
Foundations
·
Walkways
Daniel Ordonez
Advertise your business here Call us at 303-566-4100
SERVICE DIRECTORY ADS
303-888-7595
Aloe Care Health medical alert system. Most advanced medical alert product on the market. Voiceactivated! No wi-fi needed! Special offer w/code CARE20 for $20 off Mobile Companion. 1-855-521-5138
DEADLINES CLASSIFIED LINE ADS: MONDAY, 11 A.M. SERVICE DIRECTORY: THURSDAY, 5 P.M. LEGALS: THURSDAY, 3 P.M.
303-566-4100 classifieds@coloradocommunitymedia.com
Service Directory
Looking for assisted living, memory care, or independent living? A Place for Mom simplifies the process of finding senior living at no cost to your family. Call 1-833386-1995 today!
$0 Down Financing - $2.5 Million $0 Down Real Estate Investment Loans - $250K No Collateral Business and Business Startup Loans. Visit: HardFunded.com
CLASSIFIED AD SALES
720.363.6004 DanielOrdonezOTL@gmail.com Colorado, USA
Call us at
303.566.4100 Advertising support makes it possible for us to deliver the news to you...
Support our advertisers...
SHOP LOCALLY
14 Elbert County News
March 10, 2022
HOME SWEET ORGANIZED HOME Enjoy up to 50% more space in your kitchen and better access to your most-used items with our custom pull-out shelves installed in your existing cabinets
Designer Shelves.
50% OFF INSTALLATION* *Limit one offer per household. Must purchase 5+ Classic/ Designer Shelves. EXP 3/31/22
®
Schedule Your FREE Design Consultation:
(877) 326-0607
Elbert County News 15
March 10, 2022
MUSHROOMS FROM PAGE 9
resident credits illicit psychedelics like mushrooms and LSD for showing him how to cope with his illness. The Colorado Sun is using a pseudonym for Floyd because possession and use of psilocybin and other psychedelic substances remain illegal under federal law. “It helps me to look at those thoughts in the face and realize, that’s serving me no purpose at all,” Floyd said. Growing research suggests benefits Recent scientific studies and clinical trials are showing psilocybin and other psychedelics have the potential to treat serious depression,
end-of-life anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and other issues. Psilocybin and other psychedelics were previously studied in the 1950s and 1960s as treatment for alcoholism and other health issues. But as recreational use and stigma surrounding the substances grew, several states banned their use, eventually culminating with the Controlled Substances Act in 1971. In addition to psilocybin, Colorado advocates are working to decriminalize three other psychedelics derived from plants: ibogaine, mescaline (which is found in peyote) and DMT. All are still considered Schedule I drugs, the strictest federal designation, meaning they are considered by the government to have a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use in treatment.
SCAN HERE
CBD PAIN RELIEF CREAM GREAT FOR: BACKACHES ARTHRITIS MUSCLE ACHES
Ibogaine, which is derived from iboga, a plant mostly found in Africa, is being studied for potential to help people with addiction cope with withdrawal. Mescaline, the main psychoactive substance found in peyote, has been used for centuries by ancient peoples and Native American nations. DMT, which is found in certain plants and animals, is a powerful and short-acting psychedelic that researchers believe can shed light on cognitive neuroscience research. This story is from The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support The Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun.com. The Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.
Prepare for unexpected power outages with a Generac home standby generator REQUEST A FREE QUOTE!
866-977-2602
greencbdtoday.com/colorado
FREE
7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value!
Limited Time Offer - Call for Details
Special Financing Available
The relief you need exactly where you need it most.
USE CODE: PAIN
But that classification has also hampered widespread medical research, meaning researchers and the public have a limited glimpse into the benefits and other effects of these substances. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University, however, have argued for rescheduling psilocybin as a Schedule IV drug, alongside substances like prescription sleep aids, if it clears additional clinical trials. They cite studies of animals and people that suggest psilocybin has low abuse potential and there is no known overdose level, and advocate for using psilocybin in clinical settings. The other psychedelic substances included in the initiatives are also being studied for their health benefits, although they haven’t received the same attention.
Subject to Credit Approval
& get 3 FREE Gifts
*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions.
www.ColoradoCommunityMedia.com/Notices
PUBLIC NOTICES
Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 Legals City and County PUBLIC NOTICE CHILD FIND East Central BOCES and/or its member districts would like to locate all 0 through 21 year olds, who may have a disability. The Colorado Department of Education maintains a comprehensive child identification system consistent with Part B of IDEA and ensures that each Local Education Agency (LEA), in collaboration with a variety of community resources, assumes the leadership role in establishing and maintaining a process in their community for the purpose of locating, identifying and evaluating all children, birth to 21 years, who may have a disability and may be eligible for services and supports under Part C or special education services under Part B of IDEA. Ages 0 through 5 year-old concerns should be directed to the following: • • • • •
Cheyenne County (Cheyenne Wells and Kit Carson Schools) Lincoln County (Genoa-Hugo School) Yuma County (Idalia & Liberty Schools) Kit Carson County (Bethune, Stratton, Arriba-Flagler & Hi-Plains Schools) Arapahoe County (Byers, Deer Trail, Strasburg & Bennett Schools)
• • • • •
Washington County (Arickaree & Woodlin Schools) Adams County (Bennett, Strasburg, Byers and Deer Trail Schools) Lincoln County (Limon & Karval Schools) Elbert County (Agate & Kiowa Schools) Kit Carson County (Burlington Schools)
Please contact: Stacey Schillig, Child Find Coordinator - (719) 775-2342, ext. 133 All 5 through 21 year-old concerns should be directed to the local school district administrator, special education teacher, East Central BOCES (719) 775-2342, ext. 101. Services for infants and toddlers are voluntary. The East Central BOCES member schools are: Bennett, Strasburg, Byers, Deer Trail, Agate, Woodlin, Arickaree, Limon, Genoa-Hugo, Karval, Kiowa, Kit Carson, Cheyenne Wells, ArribaFlagler, Hi-Plains, Stratton, Bethune, Burlington, Liberty, and Idalia. References: IDEA, Part C, Section 303.320-323 IDEA, Part B, Section 300.125 ECEA CCR 301-8 2220-R-4.01-4.04(4) East Central BOCES Comprehensive Plan Section III Process of Identifying Legal Notice No. 24806 First Publication: March 3, 2022 Last Publication: March 10, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News
legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com
Metropolitan Districts Public Notice NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF ELECTION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS ELIZABETH FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the Elizabeth Fire Protection District. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the regular District election to be held on May 3, 2022 ("Election") to fill director positions that have become vacant through expiration of the term of office or otherwise, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled at the Election, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be a write-in candidate. There are no other District matters before the electors at the Election. The Election is hereby cancelled pursuant to C.R.S. § 1-13.5-513 and the following candidates are hereby declared elected by acclamation: Stacey Collis: 3-Year Term until May 2025 Rick Young: 3-Year Term until May 2025 /s/ Taylor Clark, Designated Election Official Legal Notice No. 24807 First Publication: March 10, 2022 Last Publication: March 10, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News
Public Notice CANCELLATION OF ELECTION AND DECLARATION DEEMING CANDIDATES ELECTED FOR ELBERT & HIGHWAY 86 METROPOLITAN DISTRICT The Designated Election Official of the Elbert & Highway 86 Metropolitan District has been duly authorized by the Board of Directors to cancel and declare candidates elected if, at the close of business on the sixty-third (63rd) day before the election or thereafter, there are not more candidates than offices to be filled at the election to be conducted on May 3, 2022; and As of the close of business on February 28, 2022, or thereafter, there were not more candidates for Director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates. Pursuant to Section 1-13.5-513(1), C.R.S., the Designated Election Official hereby cancels the regular election to be conducted on May 3, 2022. THE ELECTION IS CANCELLED AND THE FOLLOWING CANDIDATES ARE DECLARED ELECTED FOR THE FOLLOWING TERMS: Ronald E. Renk, Jr.: 3 Year Term Jeffrey Massey: 3 Year Term Steve Christoffersen: 3 Year Term DATED this 1st day of March, 2022. Designated Election Official Contact Person for District: /s/ Kevin Walker
Telephone Number of District: (719) 447-1777 Address of District: 614 N. Tejon St. Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Legal Notice No. 24808 First Publication: March 10, 2022 Last Publication: March 10, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News
Notice to Creditors PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Maria Cline, Deceased Case Number: 2022 PR 3 All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before June 24, 2022, or the claims may be forever barred. Elizabeth A. Santi, Personal Representative 5780 Desert Inn Loop Elizabeth, Colorado 80107 Legal Notice No. 24805 First Publication: February 24, 2022 Last Publication: March 10, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News
###
Elbert County Legals 3.10.22 * 1
16 Elbert County News
March 10, 2022
Advocates seek free school meals for all Colorado lawmakers want to make plan a reality BY JASON GONZALES CHALKBEAT COLORADO
Amid a host of hardships, the pandemic brought a silver lining to Colorado schools: All students could eat lunch for free, with no stigma and no paperwork. A broad coalition of nutritionists and farmers, parents and teachers wants to see Colorado continue this benefit into the future. “This is an incredible opportunity for our kids to continue to get access to meals and not have to worry about whether or not their families can afford it or whether or not their families have applied for assistance,” said Taylor Hubbard, an elementary parent from Bellvue in northern Colorado. “It’s just one less worry.” But Colorado lawmakers of both parties have concerns about the cost of the
proposal — an estimated $118 million a year — when the state has many other unmet education needs. After more than two hours of testimony March 2, the Senate Education Committee delayed a vote on Senate Bill 87 so the sponsors can look for ways to lower the cost. Bill sponsor state Sen. Brittany Pettersen, a Lakewood Democrat, said she’s confident Colorado lawmakers can prioritize the money to feed many more children than it did before the pandemic. But she and fellow bill sponsors plan to introduce amendments that would lower the cost, possibly excluding some districts with a greater number of higher-income families. The bill is also sponsored by state Sen. Rhonda Fields of Aurora and state Reps. Serena Gonzalez-Guitierrez of Denver and Dafna Michaelson Jenet of Commerce City. All of the prime sponsors are Democrats. This story was originally published by Chalkbeat Colorado. More at chalkbeat. org. Read more at chalkbeat.org.
Find Your Perfect RV Rental! RVshare connects millions of renters to the perfect RV rental and provides a safe, secure booking experience. Start Planning the Road Trip of a Lifetime
rentrvusa.com/colorado
DON’T JUST KINDA TV
DIRECTV
A Centennial Elementary School staff member wheels lunches through the cafeteria on Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021, at the Harrison School District 2 PHOTO BY MARK REIS/SPECIAL TO THE COLORADO SUN school in Colorado Springs.
No Clipping Required.
ON AVERAGE, AARP MEMBERS ENJOY
$5072
FREE duffel bag when you request your free quote!3
SAVINGS
ON AUTO INSURANCE
when they switch from companies like
The AARP® Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford.1
GEICO, State Farm and Allstate Your savings could be even more!
Call The Hartford 1-833-498-1989
Call The Hartford now to request a FREE money-saving quote.
1-833-498-1989 No coupon necessary.
Not an AARP member? If you’re 50 or over, request a FREE quote and more information today! AARP and its affiliates are not insurers. Paid endorsement. The Hartford pays royalty fees to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. It is underwritten in AZ by Hartford Insurance Company of the Southeast; in CA by Hartford Underwriters Insurance Company; in WA, by Hartford Casualty Insurance Company; in MN, by Sentinel Insurance Company; and in MA, MI and PA, by Trumbull Insurance Company. Auto is currently unavailable in Canada and U.S. Territories or possessions. Specific features, credits and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and applicable law. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not qualify. 1 In Texas, the Auto Program is underwritten by Redpoint County Mutual Insurance Company through Hartford of the Southeast General Agency, Inc. Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates are not financially responsible for insurance products underwritten and issued by Redpoint County Mutual Insurance Company. 2 Average savings amounts based on information reported by customers who switched to The Hartford from other carriers between 1/1/20 and 12/31/20. Your savings may vary. 3Gift is a limited time offer and not available in all states. Email address required in most states. Allow 4-7 weeks for delivery. Bottle not included. *Based on customer experience reviews shared online at www.thehartford.com/aarp as of October 2021. 006131
CHOICE™ PACKAGE 185+ Channels
79
$
99* MO.
For 12 mos. + taxes and fees.
W/ 24-mo. agmt. Prices higher in 2nd year. Regional Sports Fee up to $11.99/mo. is extra & applies.
• ACCESS 70,000+ SHOWS AND MOVIES ON DEMAND. Requires subscriptions to top-tier PREMIER programming. Other packages will have fewer shows and movies.
• DOWNLOAD YOUR DVR RECORDINGS to your devices at home and watch offline anywhere.** • THE MOST LIVE SPORTS IN 4K HDR.
Limited 4K HDR programming available. CHOICE Pkg or higher required for most 4K HDR live sports. 4K HDR compatible equipment, minimum programming, 4K account authorization and professional installation required. If 4K TV does not support HDR, content will be viewable in standard 4K. Other conditions apply.
SIGN UP AND GET DIRECTV AND GET FIRST 3 MONTHS OF HBO MAX, CINEMAX, SHOWTIME, STARZ AND EPIX INCLUDED! Access HBO Max only through HBO Max app or hbomax.com. HBO Max also includes HBO channels and On Demand on DIRECTV. Online account registration required. Data rates may apply for app download/usage. EARLY TERMINATION FEE OF $20/MO. FOR EACH MONTH REMAINING ON AGMT., $19.95 ACTIVATION, EQUIPMENT NON-RETURN & ADD’L FEES APPLY. New approved residential customers only (equipment lease req’d). Credit card req’d (except MA & PA). [See offer details]
Contact your local DIRECTV dealer! IV Support Holdings
877.328.1512 1-YR BASE PACKAGE: Ends 6/30/22. Available only in the U.S. (excludes Puerto Rico and U.S.V.I.). Pricing: $79.99 for first 12 mos. only. After 12 mos. or loss of eligibility, then prevailing rate applies (currently $84.99/mo. for ENTERTAINMENT; $106.99/mo. for CHOICE; $136.99/mo. for ULTIMATE; $191.99/mo. for PREMIER) unless cancelled or changed prior to end of the promo period. Pricing subject to change. TiVo service fee ($5/mo.) req’d for TiVo HD DVR from DIRECTV. Additional Fees & Taxes: Price excludes Regional Sports Fee of up to $11.99/mo. (which is extra & applies to CHOICE and/or M S ULTRA and higher Pkgs.), applicable use tax expense surcharge on retail value of installation, custom installation, equipment upgrades/add-ons, and certain other add’l fees & chrgs. See directv.com/ directv-fees for additional information. Different offers may apply for eligible multi-dwelling unit and telco customers. DIRECTV SVC TERMS: Subject to Equipment Lease & Customer Agreements. All offers, programming, promotions, pricing, terms, restrictions & conditions subject to change & may be modified, discontinued, or terminated at any time without notice. Some offers may not be available through all channels and in select areas. Visit directv.com/legal/ or call for details. Offers may not be combined with other promotional offers on the same services and may be modified or discontinued at any time without notice. Other conditions apply to all offers. 2022 DIRECTV. DIRECTV and all other DIRECTV marks are trademarks of DIRECTV, LLC. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.