Elbert County News 042822

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Week of April 28, 2022

ELBERT COUNTY, COLORADO

A publication of

ElbertCountyNews.net

VOLUME 127 | ISSUE 11

EHS senior wins $100K scholarship

Fire risk on the rise in Elbert County

Daniels Fund award goes to Avery Martinez

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

Firefighters’ lockers at Rattlesnake Fire Protection District.

PHOTOS BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON

County leaders offer fire safety tips to residents

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

With dry, warmer weather moving in and winds increasing, fire risk is on the rise in Elbert County.

As of press time, the county was at a Stage II burn restriction, which can be found at elbertcounty-co. gov/AlertCenter.

In an April 19 email exchange, Chief Cass Kilduff of Rattlesnake Fire Protection District offered information to residents about reducing fire risk and staying safe during this high-risk period.

“Planning ahead is important.

SEE FIRE, P4

Rattlesnake Fire Protection District fleet garage.

Elizabeth High School senior Avery Martinez recently won the prestigious Daniels Fund Scholarship worth $100,000.

According to the fund’s website, The Daniels Scholarship Program provides the opportunity for highly motivated students from Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming to earn a bachelor’s degree that helps them build a successful career and rewarding life. Daniels Scholars demonstrate exceptional character, leadership, and a commitment to serving their communities.

Avery is an exemplary student with a 4.02 grade point average. She is also involved in several extracurricular activities and works a parttime job. Avery played on the varsity volleyball team as the libero and ran varsity cross country. Currently Avery runs for the varsity track team and competes in the 400m, 800m, 4x800m, and 4x400m races. Throughout her life, she’s also played basketball and rugby.

In addition to her sports endeavors, Avery is also in the Chickfil-A Leadership Academy and is involved with the EHS chapter of the National Honor Society. She’s also volunteered with The Serve, a nonprofit organization that provides meals 365 days a year to those who cannot afford food.

Out of 1,500 applicants, Avery was chosen as a finalist, after which she SEE SCHOLARSHIP, P2

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

Dog trainer suggests calm teaching for COVID canines PAGE 12

2 Elbert County News

April 28, 2022

‘When we logged onto the Daniels Fund site it immediately said, ‘CONGRATULATIONS!’ We we’re beyond excited and immediately called my grandparents and surprised my dad when he got home from work.’

Avery Martinez

Avery Martinez is a senior at Elizabeth High School and a recipient of a $100,000 Daniels Fund Scholarship.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Martinez running track for Elizabeth High School at the state competition.

Avery Martinez played rugby while at school in New Zealand.

SCHOLARSHIP FROM PAGE 1

had to do an interview with the Daniels Fund leaders. To prepare for her interview, the Martinez family came together to help give Avery the best shot they could.

“I drove Avery to her interview that morning and we had a couple hours to chat. We talked about what they might ask — but more than that she talked about all the memories gone by and all of the things

that have shaped who she is today,” said Sarah Martinez, Avery’s mother. “We practiced some questions, but in those final moments before she got out of the truck, I told her to just be herself and that’s who people will love. Once it was done, she came out with a big smile and said it worked. She just showed them the real Avery.”

Out of the finalists, Avery was chosen as one of 130 winners from Colorado. Winners can choose any college or university in the United States to attend. Avery plans to attend Grand Canyon University

in Phoenix in the fall. She hopes to work toward a bachelor’s degree in either forensic science or biology.

In an April 19 interview with the Elbert County News, Avery shared her excitement about winning the scholarship and offered advice for future applicants.

Why did you decide to apply for the Daniels Fund Scholarship?

“I decided to apply for the Daniels Fund Scholarship because I thought that it would be a great opportunity and I might as well take my chance and see what the out-

come may be. I knew that I needed to get started on my scholarship applications at some point, and I decided to get the big ones done and dusted early on in the school year. I was also inspired to apply because one of my dad’s students won last year and he has had some amazing success since he won! I saw firsthand how much the scholarship could affect one’s life and I thought it could possibly do the same for me.”

SEE SCHOLARSHIP, P3

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Elbert County News 3

April 28, 2022

SCHOLARSHIP FROM PAGE 2

How did it feel to win? What was your reaction when you got the news?

“It was so relieving to win because it showed just how much my hard work paid off! Receiving the scholarship showed that everything that I sowed into my high school education reaped so much like this amazing scholarship.

“When I found out that I won, I was sitting on my bed with my mom and we opened the application. When we logged onto the Daniels Fund site it immediately said, ‘CONGRATULATIONS!’ We we’re beyond excited and immediately called my grandparents and surprised my dad when he got home from work.”

What advice do you have for future students who want to apply for scholarships?

“My biggest piece of advice for students wanting to apply for scholarships is, do not underestimate yourself. Go for it! I thought that I had no chance at winning the Daniels Fund Scholarship but I was so amazed at how much I was able to accomplish within myself this year. Just simply begin the application process. It is so hard to be motivated to start, however, once you start it is so much easier to finish the application process. You can do great things, simply give it your best shot.”

Avery’s parents said they are thankful to the Elbert County community for supporting Avery.

“Coming home to Colorado in 2020 (after most recently living in New Zealand for seven years) was such a challenge for our family after being away from home for so long, but finding our place in Elizabeth says a lot about the people

Avery Martinez and her dog, Duke.

here,” said Sarah Martinez. “We have been welcomed and loved just as if we have lived in this small town our whole lives. We want to say thank you to the people of Elbert County for loving our girl the way they do. We hope this win will honor the community as well.”

“Avery is an incredible leader,” said Chris Martinez, Avery’s father. “We know that whatever she does she will not only make us proud as parents, but our Elbert County community proud as well.”

For an Elizabeth School District news release on Avery’s scholarship win, visit tinyurl.com/AveryMartinez For information on the Daniels Fund Scholarship Program, visit tinyurl. com/ELBDanielsfund

Elizabeth High School student Avery Martinez is shown in her senior photo.

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4 Elbert County News

April 28, 2022

FIRE FROM PAGE 1

Make sure the family is on the same page on what to do in the event of a wildfire,” explained Kilduff. “Residents need to be aware of Red Flag days and be extra cautious during those times with outdoor activities. It is also important to plan ahead for evacuation of large and small animals.”

As of April 18, Colorado has seen a two-week streak of Red Flag days across much of the state. According to the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.

Typically, fire departments across the nation will respond with increased caution during Red

Rattlesnake Fire Protection District Training Center sign.

Flag days. According to Kilduff, the Rattlesnake Fire Protection District maintains extra manpower during Red Flag days.

The Elbert County News also took a tour of the Rattlesnake Fire SEE FIRE, P5

Volunteer Firefighter Anthony Perreault stands in front of the large Rattlesnake Fire Protection District fire engine. Perreault is working on his certifications to become a PHOTOS BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON full-fledged firefighter for the district.

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Rattlesnake Fire Protection District Lt. David Scott has his equipment ready for when an emergency arises.

Elbert County News 5

April 28, 2022

FIRE FROM PAGE 4

facilities on April 19. Lt. David Scott lead the tour and educated on brush fire safety.

“Lightning causes more brush fires than anything,” said Scott.

“The best way to protect your home from a creeping brush fire is to cut down tall grasses and eliminate those close to your home.”

Scott also gave a detailed overview of the department’s deployment rig, a large vehicle designed to help fight brush fires. The vehicle holds 400 gallons of water and is equipped with tools to combat any brush fire in Elbert County. According to Scott, during summer months the deployment rig is typically used daily.

“Every shift, we come in and start the vehicle. We make sure everything is flowing right, it’s gassed up, and ready to work,” said Scott. “In an emergency, I know the rig is going to start because I tested it that morning.”

Both Scott and Kilduff expressed the importance of the Code Red emergency alert system, the best way for Elbert County residents to be aware of brush fires and other local emergencies.

Chief Kilduff encouraged residents to get connected to the Elbert County emergency alert system. “All residents should make sure they are signed up with Code Red through Elbert County,” said Kilduff. “Very vital information during a fire event comes from this service.”

Kilduff also said that they would do what they could to help residents in their 66-square-mile district in preparation for brush fire safety. “The Rattlesnake Fire Protection District wants to help protect the people of Elbert County,” said Kilduff. “We would be glad to come out to any resident’s property and help them with a fire mitigation inspection.”

For a list of Elbert County Fire Protection Districts and Depart-

A wildfire evacuation checklist adapted from a University of Nevada-Reno Extension publication.

ments, please visit tinyurl.com/ ELBfire To learn more about the Rattlesnake Fire Protection District, please visit tinyurl.com/ ELBrattlesnake For Elbert County burn restriction information, please visit elbertcounty-co.gov/176/BurnRestriction-Information For information on Code Red notifications, visit elbertcounty-co. gov/177/CodeRED-Notifications For a guide to preparing a home for wildfire and creating defensible space, visit elbertcounty-co.gov/ DocumentCenter/View/1820/TheHome-Ignition-Zone-PDF

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6 Elbert County News

April 28, 2022

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Colorado leaders have introduced a series of bills in the state legislature to house unsheltered residents and help them transition from living on the streets to holding stable jobs and receiving mental health care.

“As we work to alleviate the economic impacts of the pandemic, addressing homelessness is about more than just creating more housing,” Sen. Julie Gonzales, a Denver Democrat, said in an April 18 news conference. “It’s meeting folks where they’re at and it’s connecting folks to the services they need and to the care and housing that they need.”

Each bill addresses a different facet of the issue, but aims to tackle some of the main causes of homelessness: lack of affordable housing, mental health issues, poverty and systemic barriers.

“It’s clear that the pandemic and social instability have taken a toll in our communities, and the number of people experiencing homelessness has risen as a result,” said Rep. Iman Jodeh, an Arapahoe County Democrat. “We won’t fully address this crisis unless we address the root cause of homelessness.”

Jodeh is sponsoring a bill that would direct $50 million of federal pandemic assistance funds to Denver and its surrounding counties that would allow for a collaboration between countries to build a homelessness resources campus.

While the details are still being worked out and construction of the campus could be years away, Jodeh said bill supporters envision a series of buildings providing mental health and substance abuse support, medical and dental care, transitional and permanent housing, job skills and emergency shelter.

Jodeh said the Denver area lacks transitional and supportive housing, which is often the first step into getting unsheltered residents into permanent housing. Because of this, Jodeh wanted to ensure legisla-

tion prioritized such housing for the state’s largest counties.

Another bill — sponsored by Gonzales — would pour $105 million to a number of options for homelessness support, including transitional and permanent housing for those who need it.

The bills come at a time when Denver-area housing prices are reaching all-time highs. Gonzales said she lives in affordable housing, which has given her access to serve as a state senator and lead a successful life.

“It’s the only reason I’m able to stand before you as a state senator today, because access to affordable and safe and secure housing changed my life,” Gonzales said.

“This pandemic hit our communities hard, particularly working class Coloradans and communities of color.”

While unsheltered residents have always struggled in Colorado, Jodeh said Denver’s homeless shelters saw a 99% increase in need due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and those who were unhoused prior to the pandemic saw a 90% increase in drug overdose rates.

“The bills we’re working on this session will look at every angle of this crisis,” Jodeh said.

Governor Jared Polis said while the state is happily supporting the issue, he believes municipal leaders should be at the frontlines of the fight, as the issue is specific in different cities and municipalities have more power to legislate their unique needs than the state does.

“Homelessness is an issue that primarily lives at the municipal level, and because of the statewide importance, the state is taking an unprecedented step,” Polis said.

“State government does not have the authority or jurisdiction to implement local ordinances. We can be a supporter and an investor in local efforts, but at the end of the day, it will take a force of local efforts to meet this issue on the ground.”

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.

Elbert County News 7

April 28, 2022

Prosecutor’s office honors victim advocates

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In Parker on April 19, prosecutors, law enforcement and politicians were all in agreement. That rare feat was accomplished because of what they were all there to do — honor the people who work every day to protect the rights of victims of crime.

As part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office hosted a special awards ceremony to honor those who have gone above and beyond to help victims of crime in Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties.

Along with the honorees for the evening, council members and commissioners from Centennial, Parker and Douglas and Arapahoe counties were in attendance.

In his opening statements, District Attorney John Kellner said he is proud of the way treating victims has evolved over the years. When a victim of a crime is dealing with their worst day, Kellner said, dedicated professionals in the 18th Judicial District are there to see them through it.

“When I think about the importance of this week, and what it means to me as a prosecutor, I think it is a time to reflect on the people behind the numbers. It is a time to think about the communities that we serve as prosecutors and law enforcement. It makes me think about how far we have come.”

Early in his career as a prosecutor in the Marine Corps, Kellner said there was not a lot of thought about how victims were treated, saying at one time they were more of an “afterthought.” While that brings a sense of shame in thinking about it, Kellner said, the hard work of many has brought about “tremendous change.”

Kellner said there is more advocating at the state level to change laws, there are more community groups with the sole purpose of helping victims, and there are lots of changes in how communities go about policing and helping people experiencing the “worst days of their lives.”

Kellner said the theme in honoring Victims’ Rights Week this year is “Rights, Access, Equity for all Victims.”

In the 18th Judicial District over the last year, Kellner said, they recovered more than $43,000 in restitution for victims. In 2021, the 18th Judicial District sent out 11,000 communications to victims to let them know they were available to help them. In 2021, the Victims’ Compensation Program collected more than $1 million, Kellner said.

As presenters entered the stage

to give awards, many of the stories shared throughout the evening were heartbreaking but had the happiest ending possible — the guilty behind bars.

In presenting the Career Investigator Award, 18th Judicial District Chief Investigator Mike Dickson said the honoree, Scott Stephens, has gone above and beyond for victims, especially children. In reviving one case, Dickson said, Stephens conducted a new round of interviews, found more victims and was able to secure a conviction in a case involving children.

In announcing the winner for the Outstanding Law Enforcement Advocate Award, Parker Detective Shannon Brukbacher said she could not think of anyone more deserving than Amanda Hollander, who works with the Parker Police Department.

While her contributions in advocating for victims are endless, Brukbacher focused on Hollander’s work in a stalker case where a man was relentless in pursuing his female victim.

Brukbacher said Hollander worked to keep the victim updated and educated on her rights.

Brukbacher said even after the man was let out of prison, he returned to keep stalking his victim.

However, because of all the prep work to prepare the victim on what to do in case he reappeared, the victim was ready, and the suspect has again been arrested.

Hollander, who has been with the department for four years, has worked to improve response and services to victims of crime, Brukbacher said.

“Amanda embodies everything you think a victim advocate should have,” Brukbacher said. “She is an excellent communicator, is 100% trustworthy and she understands the types of trauma and works tirelessly to build trust with victims and help them regain control of their lives.”

Others honored during the special banquet include: • Outstanding Non-Profit – Arc of Aurora • Outstanding Victim Service – Lorna Leader a forensic nurse program manager in Parker, Porter and Littleton Adventist Hospitals • Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer – Kathy Lynn of the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office • Career District Attorney Support Staff – Arleen Sandberg • Career Prosecutor – Danielle Jaramillo • Career District Attorney Victim Specialist – Lynne Gallion of the Douglas County DA’s office • Recognition of Service Award – Pella, a retired K-9 that has helped in calming victims. She was escorted by handler, Amber Urban.

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District Attorney John Kellner keeps the service dogs in check while their handler thanks the audience for support at the awards ceremony on April 19. PHOTO BY THELMA GRIMES

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8 Elbert County News

April 28, 2022

Springtime and baby calves

Putting the ranch in Sterling Ranch

BY ELLIOTT WENZLER EWENZLER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

O

CoCo and Madi Clough ride in the back of a pickup truck on their family’s leased pasture near the homes PHOTOS BY ELLIOTT WENZLER of Sterling Ranch.

Cattle at Sterling Ranch have a view of both the mountains and the suburbs.

Matt Clough, who leases pastures from Sterling Ranch, stands in one of his fields April 11.

ne day, the area north of Titan Road near Sterling Ranch’s current communities will be filled in with houses and development, but right now, the property has a different occupant — cattle.

That’s because the Sterling Ranch Development Company decided to lease that 3,400-acre area to a local rancher as part of co-owner Harold Smethills’ goal of proving that suburban ranching is possible, he said.

“There will always be cattle on Sterling Ranch,” Smethills said.

Even after the land is built out, they will bring cattle into their open spaces, he said.

For now, there are about 220 head of cattle on the property, not including about 200 additional calves that were born there this spring.

Matt Clough, who leases the land, has been ranching in Douglas County for about 30 years and in Sterling Ranch for about 17 years. He also ranches in Elbert and El Paso counties, he said.

Madi and CoCo Clough, two of Matt’s daughters, spend most days after school out on the ranch helping care for the animals and enjoying the pastures.

“This one’s our favorite,” Madi, 16 said from the back

One of the cows owned by the Clough family, who lease a portion of Sterling Ranch for their cattle, is called “Red.”

of a pickup truck while driving through a pasture at the corner of Titan Drive and Roxborough Park Road.

“It’s so open and you can see the mountains … you can see coyotes easily so you can protect the babies.”

So far, none of the Clough’s calves have been lost to predators this year.

CoCo, 6, said she wants to be a barrel race someday.

But that’s not all.

“I also want to be a rodeo queen,” she said.

Matt keeps his cattle at the Sterling Ranch during the winter and moves them back to summer pastures after calving season.

“I think people are very happy to see the cattle in these urban environments,” he said. “They love it.”

Part of the reason Sterling Ranch leases to Clough is because as the cattle graze, they decrease fuel for potential wildfires.

“Douglas County has been great about understanding the benefit of grazing,” he said.

A calf grazes in a large open pasture just across the road from Sterling Ranch.

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Elbert County News 9

April 28, 2022

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10 Elbert County News

LOCAL

April 28, 2022

VOICES

Springtime is here

W

hile we have had some roadblocks in enjoying the spring season with wind and some storms – I have to say I love this season in Colorado.

FROM THE It’s the time of year to start planning gardens.

EDITOR Seedlings for the vegetable garden are just about ready to be transplanted from the greenlights inside to the raised beds in the yard.

Our Douglas County reporter, Elliott Wenzler, got us a little more in the spirit of spring this week Thelma Grimes with her story and photos on Sterling Ranch being more than just a housing development. Instead, they still have a ranch in the area with plenty of baby calves. Anytime we see those baby calves, we know it is time for spring.

Besides flowers, vegetable gardens and baby animals — I love this time of year in Colorado because of all the outdoor activities throughout the area. Living by Cherry Creek State Park, kayaking in the lake is a big favorite activity starting in springtime and going into the hot summer months.

Last weekend, I took a ride to check out the area and see if the winds would hold up for a first voyage out this spring. As I drove around the park, it was a little unnerving.

All the talk in the region right now is fires.

The fact is, there is no beginning and end to “fire season” now — it is a year-round concern for residents and fire officials.

While I love spring, as I drove around the area, a part of me hoped that we can get more rain and snow. It is not a secret that we need more moisture in the ground.

Living near Cherry Creek State Park, we looked at all the brush, all the trees in the area and we started thinking about what it would mean if a fire were to spark up. A fire can spark from an overheated car, an irresponsible person throwing out a cigarette butt, or some freak incident.

Living near this big, open area has me concerned like many residents this year as news of wildfires throughout the state has already started making the rounds. Glenwood Canyon was most recently on fire.

In Littleton, police and citizens are dealing with fires being set at night in local parks.

As we enjoy the spring this year, we as residents have to be just as vigilant this year as we have ever been before. In order to keep loving the outdoor activities this region and state has to offer, we as citizens have just as much responsibility to help protect it as the firefighters and public safety officials we rely on to keep us safe this year.

As a final note, now more than ever, do not take for granted the training and work local firefighters are doing day in and day out to be prepared in case the call comes in for another wildfire in the aera.

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

The water’s fine for canoeing in Colorado

W

ith water sport vehicles growing in various forms and popularity today, we sometimes look past the long-term sport of canoeing. The partnership of man and canoe emerged in the west to OUTDOOR help settlers explore challenging LIVING remote back country in the early years.

The canoe provided John Wesley Powell’s team an efficient transportation mode into the Western region’s waterways. The same light weight portable float vehicle allowed Lewis and Clark to carry cargo and transverse small power streams, remote marshlands as well as slow flowing wide river Ron Hellbusch basins.

Where and how a canoe can accomplish similar feats for man and cargo today is still very adaptable. And its 21st century versatility has only magnified its popularity.

There are personal choices when searching for canoes and canoe travel. Most sporting goods outlets near vacation destination cities or river systems sell and/or rent canoes. Other communities provide guided outfitter services and equipment on specific river basins.

For the canoe novice, individual or group; a good initial step is to contact an outfitter and plan the experience together. That proved a wise plan for my daughter, grand-daughter, and myself when we enjoyed four-day canoe floats and campouts on the Gunnison River near Grand Junction.

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager

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LISA SCHLICHTMAN Editor-in-Chief

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Among Colorado’s many canoe outfitters, Centennial Canoe Outfitters (CCO) based in Grand Junction with satellite facilities near Palisade offers a typical full range of river canoe trips.

For those who like to plan outdoors adventures well in advance and may not have enjoyed previous canoe time consider these guided float dates as one of your options this summer.

CCO is featuring five special 2022 floats starting with the “Spring on the Green” River, Utah 6-day, seven mile run May 17-22; the “Memorial Weekend” May 27-29 on the Gunnison River near Grand Junction; “White River Adventure” near Glenwood Springs June 3-5; “Green River Labyrinth Canyon” float 6 days June 8-12 and the “Yampa River Kickoff” June 10-12 near Steamboat Springs.

Families and individuals of all ages looking for a new outdoors experience will find it canoeing Colorado rivers.

Most canoe outfitters offer a variety of personal interest experiences from fly fishing, canyon hiking, bald eagle nest observation, beautiful landscape photography, geology, wildlife and bird watching and sightings. Outfitters encourage individual, small group, family or organizational team canoe floats and campouts. Outfitters are licensed on most state rivers and capable of arranging canoe adventures outside Colorado.

Explore Colorado’s canoe opportunities. The Mile High State represents seven major river basins, most offer challenging waters and exciting levels of canoeing.

Outdoorsman and Westminster resident Ron Hellbusch can be reached at Ron-Hellbusch Comcast.net

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

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 11

April 28, 2022

Colorado lawmakers plan to overhaul unemployment system Plans include extending benefits to immigrants

BY TAMARA CHUANG AND JESSE PAUL THE COLORADO SUN

Colorado lawmakers are planning to introduce a bill as soon as this week that would overhaul the state’s unemployment system and also send roughly $600 million to the depleted unemployment insurance trust fund to lower a $1 billion federal debt hanging over employers.

The $600 million replenishment was expected — Gov. Jared Polis made the recommendation in November — but the changes to the unemployment system are a surprise that comes after months of behindthe-scenes negotiations between lawmakers, Polis’ office, the business community and progressive fiscal groups.

Many of the systemic changes proposed in the forthcoming bill are extensions of temporary changes made during the pandemic. Some details are still being negotiated, but the alterations are slated to include continuing a COVID-era fund offering unemployment benefits to people living in the U.S. illegally who aren’t eligible for aid under federal law, as well as making permanent a change allowing people to collect more benefits even if they secure part-time work.

“We have a number of provisions that were put in on a temporary basis during the pandemic that have worked really well for the state and have helped families get back on their feet,” said state Sen. Chris Hansen, a Denver Democrat who will be a prime sponsor of the bill. “We think it’s a good idea to make many of them ongoing.”

Hansen said the legislation is expected to have bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, though Republican sponsors in both chambers haven’t been finalized.

While Republicans have called for eliminating the full $1 billion debt owed to the federal government by the trust fund, the business community appears happy with where the legislation is headed.

“The $600 million is a huge win for employers across the state,” said Loren Furman, president of the Colorado Chamber of Commerce.

Employers, who are solely responsible for filling the trust fund, are paying more this year in unemployment insurance premiums. But they face even higher payments in 2023 because of the deficit, caused by the federal government keeping Colorado afloat during the pandemic. Insolvency surcharges won’t stop until the trust fund fills its $1 billion hole.

To get the fund fully solvent, it needs $2 billion to $2.5 billion, according to Colorado Department of Labor and Employment officials.

Furman said that without the $600 million replenishment, businesses will face higher costs because of solvency surcharges and that’s not fair because they kept their businesses going through the pandemic.

Companies that shut down no longer contribute, even as their workers benefited from the trust fund.

Progressive organizations also say

they and labor groups are pleased with the upcoming legislation.

“What we’re doing with this bill is just making sure that we are as prepared for the next recession as we can be,” said Kathy White, executive director of the liberal-leaning Colorado Fiscal Institute. “That includes forward funding (the trust fund) to accelerate solvency and preserving some of the policy changes that were made during the pandemic that are really targeted at making sure the program works for workers and it works for the lowest wage workers.

That’s where we saw the greatest gaps.”

What made it into the bill The bill’s proposed changes to the unemployment system are meant to continue what state and federal lawmakers started during the pandemic.

They are designed to help low-wage unemployed workers survive in a future recession.

“One of the things that we really learned through the pandemic is that the unemployment insurance system is literally the only and first line of defense that the United States has to manage recessions, to keep the economy basically from tanking and going into a vicious spiral as jobs are lost,” White said. “During the pandemic, there was a recognition by the Trump administration first and the Biden administration second … that there are just certain gaps in how well the UI system works for workers, even though it’s the most critical system we have. It’s an automatic stabilizer.”

There are three key changes set to be included in the forthcoming legislation: • Colorado lawmakers created the Left Behind Worker Fund during the pandemic to provide financial help to workers living in the U.S. unlawfully who lost their job because of COVID-19. The bill would make the fund permanent and change the name to the Benefit Recovery Fund. The goal is to help immigrants whose employers already pay their unemployment insurance but who are ineligible to receive unemployment benefits because of federal laws. The fund would not raise unemployment premiums and it would be capped.

• Currently, Coloradans receive 55% of their regular pay as unemployment. But if they work part time and earn 25% or more of the weekly benefit, that benefit starts to diminish. That provision hurt employers who had to reduce their operating hours in the pandemic because it meant their employees could make more by not working. The legislation would raise the partial UI limit to 50% before the worker sees any reduction in their benefits.

• Employers would be required under the bill to inform their workers that they are eligible for unemployment benefits.

Three other proposed changes to the unemployment system under the legislation are still being negotiated.

They would: • Eliminate the one-week waiting period between when a worker loses their job and their unemployment benefits start. White said the thinking behind this change is that SEE LEGISLATURE, P16

Lawmakers and lobbyists are seen at the Capitol on Jan. 12 in Denver at the start of PHOTO BY OLIVIA SUN/THE COLORADO SUN Colorado’s General Assembly’s 2022 session.

OBITUARIES EHLERS

Bonnie Lee Ehlers

August 7, 1931 - January 27, 2022

Bonnie Ehlers, 90, was born on Aug. 7, 1931 in Limon and passed away on Jan. 27, 2022. Bonnie is survived by her children Pat (Bill) Story, Mary (Les) Reitan, Mike (Polly), Lois Klodt, David (Lea), Linda (Mark) Barnes, Karl, and Donn (Christeen), 32 grandchildren, 63 great grandchildren, 10 great-great grandchildren, and her niece Vicki and nephew Monte. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Mable

Burchett, her husband John, sister Doris, infant daughter Ann Marie, sons Kenny, Joe and Bruce, and grandsons Kyle and Bruce. Please join us for a Celebration of her Life and dessert reception on Sunday May 22 at the Kiowa Creek Fellowship Hall, 231 Cheyenne St. in Kiowa, CO. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Kiowa Fire Dept., Kiowa or Elizabeth food banks.

In Loving Memory Place an Obituary for Your Loved One.

303-566-4100 obituaries@coloradocommunitymedia.com Self placement available online at elbertcountynews.net

12 Elbert County News

LOCAL

April 28, 2022

LIFE

SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE

Boulder business offers unique approach to developing relationships with canine companions

natural horsemanship, they raised about 100 animals on their property, such as dogs, cats, parrots, ferrets, turkeys, llamas and horses.

“We learned they all speak the same language and understand each other,” Elizabeth said. “It’s humans that have forgotten.”

The science they learned through natural horsemanship working with famous “horse whisperers” started with three drills for young colts, and they found that the technique, with some tweaking, was effective with dogs.

The Simpsons said they discovered that many dog trainers were using ineffective tools.

“It didn’t seem to be changing the future of dogs and was not changing the behavior of numbers of dogs sent to shelters,” Elizabeth said.

Elizabeth said dogs can be trained without using all the harsh devices of shocking and pinching and pockets full of food.

“It’s about developing a relationship with the animals that last a lifetime,” she said. “We know what drill to use to fix it, which is very simple, essential and natural.”

Natural pressure-and-release training techniques include pressures to get the dog’s attention using

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

D

oug and Elizabeth Simpson use the scientific technique of pressure and release to train dogs by developing a relationship with the animal by communicating in its natural form of language.

“It’s the technique in the Simpsons’ methodology,” said Cindy Heller, brand champion for Tenderfoot Natural Dog Training, which the couple co-founded in Boulder over 30 years ago. “The mother dogs are pack leaders that use the same technique of pressure and release to train their puppies.”

The Simpsons are former horse trainers and participated in competitive horse shows. Doug is a native of Colorado, and Elizabeth has lived in Colorado for about 40 years.

When the Simpsons were learning

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a motivator such as verbal, emotional, visual, body language, tone, distance or energy.

“All animals create right and wrong through pressure and release. Pressure is the motivator to make a better choice and the release of pressure is the moment they learn. Pressure can be a meaningful tone of voice and release can be a softening in your tone,” said Doug.

When having a relationship with an animal, Doug said owners need to learn to understand most of their dog’s physical movements, which have meaning.

According to the Simpsons, humans and dogs understand each other through movement and eye contact.

“If you stroke them, it’s like mama washing them,” Elizabeth said. “It changes the animal’s brainwaves by calming them. It’s hardwired into them. It’s the relationship of love, trust and respect.”

Doug said people were adopting dogs in greater numbers during the pandemic and could not handle behavior issues. COVID-19 made it worse, and many dogs were returned to shelters.

“The problem (was) people were home most of the time — they were not going to public places or taking the dog on a walk,” he said. “The dog got used to them being home and lacking socialization. When people start going back to work, it caused the dog to suffer from separation anxiety.

“Separation anxiety can cause a dog to be destructive and stressful,” Doug explained. “During COVID, dogs’ bad behaviors typically mag-

nified and got worse.”

Doug said another common problem during COVID was people giving their dogs too much free time or recess.

It’s like sending a child to school with no structure or teacher, he said.

The dog’s behavior gets worse and worse, and they become very independent and don’t want to listen. The dog doesn’t learn patience.

Instead, they run, chase, jump and bite. A leader is a decision-maker, so when the dog has a decision, instead of reacting, they should first look to the human for direction. This alone solves most problems.”

“The right side of the brain is all adrenaline, which is the reactionary brain to react, jump and explode.

With this type of energy, the dogs do whatever they want,” Doug said.

Doug said when you work with the dog, they’ll do what you ask.

Common chemicals released in the brain’s left side, such as serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin, immediately calm them.

“If I asked the dog to sit, those chemicals are releasing so engagement mentally is more tiring then the physical,” he said. “The physical walk is also very mental with stops and pace changes. It’s a good time for them and gets their attention.”

Seth Steele took Charlie, a Chihuahua poodle, to Tenderfoot Natural Dog Training to work on crate training and handling.

“I learned that I need to be with Charlie consistently and be the pack leader, and our family is a pack,” Steele said. “He’s sleeping in a crate, not in the bed anymore. We correct SEE DOG TRAINING, P13

Elbert County News 13

April 28, 2022

C

College students display work in exhibit

olorado Gallery of the Arts at Arapahoe Community College, 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton, hosts the annual Multimedia, Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography and Commercial Art Student Exhibit through May 30, showcasing works created by graduating students as they head into professional careers. Open Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission free. (I suggest this for high school graduates who are considering more art training, among others.) See works at arapahoe.edu/acc-mgd-commercial-photography-student-show.

Cherry Creek Theatre “Ann,” by Holland Taylor, a funny play about legendary Texas Governor Ann Richards, played

by Martha Harmon Pardee, will be presented

by Cherry Creek Theatre Company April 22 through May 15 in the Pluss Theatre at Mizel Arts Center, 350 S. Dahlia St., Denver. Box office: 303-800-6578, cherrycreektheatre.org.

Stories on Stage Your favorite Beatles hits will be performed in story and song at the next Stories on Stage show at Su Teatro, 721 Santa Fe Drive, Denver

SONYA’S SAMPLER

at 2 p.m. May 1. (There will also be a virtual premiere at 7 p.m. May 6.) Performers: Sam Gregory, GerRee Hinshaw and Allison Watrous will perform and a sing-along will be led by Matt Bassono. See storiesonstage.org.

Curious Theatre Curious Theatre Company, 1080 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, Sonya Ellingboe presents the regional premiere of “Fireflies” by Donja R. Love, April 30 through May 28, with Jada Dixon and Cajardo Lindsey. It tells the story of a fiery preacher and his wife, following the 1963 bombing of a church in Birmingham that killed four African American girls. Tickets available at the box office, curioustheatre. org or 303-623-0524.

Miners Alley Miners Alley Theatre in Golden features a new play, “Blue Ridge,” by Abby Rosenstock, through June 5. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 7:30 p.m.; Sunday: 2 p.m. minersalley.com, 303-

935-3044.

Parker Symphony Brahms Requiem will be performed with the Colorado Saints Chorale at 7:30 p.m. May 6 at the PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., Parker. Tickets: parkeronline.org, 303-8056800.

Governor’s Art Show The 31st Annual Governor’s Art Show runs April 23 through May 22 at the Loveland Museum, 503 N. Lincoln Ave., Loveland. Museum hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays; until 7 p.m. on Thursdays; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays; noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission $12 for adults, free 12 and under and members.

‘Patterns of Consumption’ The Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton, hosts “Patterns of Consumption” through June 26. Plastic touches all our lives.

This exhibit, by Kalliope Moyonos, looks at consumerism and the material that has replaced all traditional materials in the past 70 years. 303-795-3950. Admission is free.

DOG TRAINING FROM PAGE 12

him when he makes noises, and it worked.

Doug recommends a 30-40-word vocabulary.

Having only a 5-word vocabulary is a limited engagement and understanding. The more you communicate with your dog, the greater connection and deeper relationship you’ll o have.” d The more you work with them, the calmer they become, and you become more of a leader. “It becomes so simple and subtle,” Doug said. “They are pretty obedient and do what you ask them to do.” y Amy Jablonski’s dog Poppy needed training. She bit Elizabeth in the face when o Elizabeth tried to hold her during the first training session.

“I needed to change myself to be consistent with her training,” Jablonski said. “I took her to a birthday party with my relatives and three different dogs. I was nervous about how she would react with another dog or with one of our family members that may want to pet her. She acted so well with no issues.”

For more information about the specialized dog training offered by Tenderfoot Natural l Dog Training, visit https://tenderfoottraining.com.

Elizabeth and Doug Simpson, owners of Tenderfoot Natural Dog Training, with their dog Levi.

PHOTO BY BELEN WARD

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14 Elbert County News

April 28, 2022

Polis opposes ban on flavored tobacco, nicotine products Bill would siphon $25 million in annual tax revenue

BY SHANNON NAJMABADI THE COLORADO SUN

Gov. Jared Polis says he doesn’t support a bipartisan bill that would ban the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products, including menthol cigarettes, because he prefers a local regulatory approach.

But some city and county leaders explicitly support the measure, now stalled in the legislature, and two organizations that represent local governments and fiercely defend their local-control powers, the Colorado Municipal League and Colorado Counties Inc., aren’t fighting it.

There’s another reason the Democratic governor may oppose House Bill 1064, which is aimed at reducing teen nicotine use: It would siphon as much as $25.2 million — of an expected $167.7 million — in annual tax revenue from the state’s fledgling preschool program, a signature Polis initiative.

The debate this year over House Bill 1064 highlights the outsize role the tobacco industry plays in the Colorado Capitol, where it successfully defeated efforts to increase tobacco taxes in 2016 and 2019.

Flavored tobacco projects continues to be debated by lawmakers.

In 2020, the Polis administration negotiated with tobacco giant Altria, the maker of Marlboro cigarettes, on a bill that placed a measure on the ballot to raise cigarette and tobacco taxes and enact a tax on nicotine products, including vape cartridges. The measure,

SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE

Proposition EE, passed, raising millions of dollars to fund free preschool slots and helping the governor accomplish a campaign promise.

This year, House Bill 1064, which is aimed at outlawing products that critics say market to children

with fruity flavors and colorful packaging, is drawing similar tobacco industry interest.

The measure is one of the mostlobbied bills before the legislature this year, with more than 140 lobbyists and lobbying firms representing more than 85 clients supporting, opposing or monitoring the measure. That’s nearly one-quarter of the entire lobbying corps.

The companies lobbying on the bill are spending big money on their efforts to shape the measure.

Altria and another tobacco giant, Reynolds American, respectively spent $149,000 and $173,000 on lobbying from July 2021 through the end of March.

The national nonprofit Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids is leading the charge to support the bill, and has spent nearly $181,000 on lobbying through the end of March. It has 25 lobbyists and lobbying firms working on the measure.

Lawmakers have acknowledged the supercharged nature of the debate.

“This bill has probably been lobbied more than any other bill that I’ve seen in my four years here at the state Capitol,” Republican Rep. Matt Soper, of Delta, said during a committee hearing in March.

Others say the fight highlights the folly of trying to fund essential services with sin taxes, which are often meant to discourage a cerSEE TOBACCO, P15

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Elbert County News 15

April 28, 2022

TOBACCO

flavor bans, though a few have increased taxes on the products as a way to try to discourage their use.

Additionally, some mayors say the local efforts have limited effect.

“They’re just not working,” Edgewater Mayor John Beltrone told lawmakers of local ordinances. “Our high school — Jefferson High — is two blocks away from a smoke shop in Lakewood that doesn’t have these restrictions.”

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock vetoed a flavor-ban ordinance passed by the Denver City Council last year, in part because he believed state action would be more effective.

“It is not a prohibitive enough barrier if our youth are simply able to travel across Denver’s border to the nearest convenience store and obtain flavored tobacco products,” Hancock wrote in a letter issuing his veto.

Kevin Bommer, executive director of the Colorado Municipal League, said the group’s members are split; some support the bill while others don’t want to be told what businesses they can have in their community, referencing concerns from vape shops who say the bill would put them out of business.

Some three dozen Colorado municipalities have adopted regulations on youth access to vaping products that are less restrictive than a ban, according to the Rocky Mountain Smoke Free Alliance, an association that represents about 125 small Colorado vape stores.

Those policies include only

FROM PAGE 14

tain behavior.

“It’s not hard to see that that’s on a collision course,” said Rep. Marc Snyder, a Manitou Springs Democrat. “The more successful you are at accomplishing the social and health policy, the less revenue you have.”

Local control “in the eye of the beholder” The governor declined to answer repeated questions from the Colorado Sun about whether he is worried the measure will slash preschool funding generated by Proposition EE. Polis has a hard time seeing how a statewide approach to regulating flavored tobacco and nicotine products makes sense, spokesman Conor Cahill said, noting that the governor signed legislation in recent years giving local governments regulatory authority over tobacco products.

“As a general philosophy, the governor prefers local control because our local governments are closest to the people they represent and can weigh the pros and cons and determine how to best address these kinds of issues in their area,” Cahill said in a written statement.

A number of cities and towns in Colorado have already passed their own flavor bans, including Aspen, Boulder, Carbondale and Glenwood Springs.

Colorado counties believe they lack the legal authority to pass

selling vaping products in agerestricted stores or imposing stiff penalties on those caught selling to minors, said Joe Miklosi, a former state lawmaker lobbying for the association, which opposes the bill.

The governor’s concern about local control is “a curious position, actually,” Bommer said, citing Polis’ “unwillingness to support local control on building codes and sales taxes.”

“I guess local control is in the eye of the beholder,” he said.

Health officials say the products pose health risks Health officials say flavored tobacco and nicotine products pose a serious public health risk, especially for children of color and those with low socioeconomic backgrounds.

Alarm about the flavored products dates back to at least 2018, when the U.S. Surgeon General said there was an epidemic of ecigarette use among young people, fueled by “new types of e-cigarettes that have recently entered the market.” Soon after, there was an outbreak of severe lung injuries tied to vaping products containing THC. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has tightened regulations on flavored nicotine products but some manufacturers switched to synthetic nicotine to evade the added scrutiny. The omnibus spending bill passed by Congress earlier this year would close that loophole and leave manufacturers with 30 days to ask the FDA to continue selling their products.

At Girls Athletic Leadership Schools in Denver, school officials have caught pre-teens with vaping devices that look like mascara wands or have fruity flavors like pineapple, said Carol Bowar, the school’s executive director. The products are more discreet than smoking marijuana or a cigarette, she said, and students caught with the products tell school officials they are able to buy them without being carded.

“It’s a really deadly, addictive substance that’s disguised as something benign. And that is what’s troubling,” Bowar said.

Nicotine is particularly addictive for preteens and teenagers whose brains are still developing, said pediatrician Anne Shelton, a member of the Colorado Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. That group supports the legislation.

Nearly 30% of Colorado high school students used vapes, ecigarettes and similar products in 2019, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Among young adults who use tobacco, more than 80% started with flavored products, according to a study by the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health.

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.

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16 Elbert County News

April 28, 2022

C R O S S W O R D LEGISLATURE P U Z Z L E FROM PAGE 11

low-wage earners need the money as soon as possible. The one-week delay was waived during the pandemic.

• Waive a requirement that unemployed workers repay unemployment overpayments. During the pandemic, an executive order required the state labor department to pay benefits first and then check on eligibility. Because of that mandate, thousands of unemployed workers later deemed ineligible were overpaid benefits and then required to pay them back. Many had already spent the money so it became a frustrating mess.

• Create dependent allowances by offering unemployed primary caretakers $25 per week per dependent. This stands to benefit single parents or a parent who is the family’s sole income provider. This won’t be part of the proposed bill. Instead, a committee will be created to study the proposal.

The idea behind the $25 per dependent comes from the federal $600 per-week pandemic unemployment supplement from Congress, which helped many workers stay afloat even as it was criticized for helping the lowest earners make more by staying jobless, White said.

Colorado currently pays a maximum of $700 a week for up to 26 weeks, while some states, such as Alabama, max out at $275.

Furman said the chamber and Colo-

rado businesses have been working on the bill with state legislators and organizations like the Colorado Fiscal Institute since January.

“We want to make sure that these proposals don’t take money out of the fund at the most vulnerable time,” Furman said. “So some of the provisions we’re going to do through a study, some of them might get pushed up until the fund is at a billion-dollar threshold. It’s just about putting some guardrails around them.”

In a statement, Polis’ office thanked business leaders and bill sponsors who are following up on his original proposal to use $600 million to pare down the trust fund deficit. The office didn’t comment on proposed changes to the unemployment system.

“We appreciate the work of the sponsors, business and workers’ advocates to move forward with a proposal that fully funds the governor’s budget request,” the statement said.

How $600 million will help insolvency issues Colorado’s unemployment insurance trust fund ran out of money in August 2020, five months into the pandemic. But unemployed workers still got paid, thanks to the state getting a loan from the federal government.

That loan swelled to $1 billion by April 2021.

Even as workers returned to their jobs and employers paid premiums to the trust fund, the federal loan was still more than $1 billion as of April 15, SEE LEGISLATURE, P19

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Propane Cylinder Delivery Driver Valley Wide Cooperative is coming to Colorado. Join a quickly growing company. Hiring propane cylinder exchange drivers and an Operations/Sales Lead. visit www. valleywidecoop.com for information and to apply.

Contact info: Shane.McConnell@valleywidecoop. com 208-995-5507

Speech-Language Pathologist or SLPA Positions Full-Time & Part-Time Open to School Internships. Able to provide supervision for CFY hours. Join our dynamic, multidisciplinary team of professionals for the 2022-23 school year. Administer assessments, provide direct, indirect & consultation services for students PreK-12th grades.

Competitive salaries: SLP - $44,100-$56,000 & SLPA- $36,050- $44,450, both commensurate upon experience.

May be eligible for a Sign On Bonus! May also be eligible for loan forgiveness. Excellent benefits, including full health benefits & mileage reimbursement. Flexible schedule. Questions contact Tracy at (719) 775-2342, ext. 101. To apply for this position, please complete the Certified Application for Employment available on the East Central BOCES website www.ecboces.org under “Jobs”. EOE

Teacher of the Visually Impaired/ Orientation and Mobility Specialist East Central BOCES is seeking a Part-Time (3.5 days/wk) Teacher of the Visually Impaired/Orientation and Mobility Specialist for the 202223 school year. This position requires working with multiple administrative units including East Central BOCES, Ft. Morgan, Santa Fe Trails BOCES, South East BOCES, North East BOCES and Sterling. Option to work 1 day a week for East Central BOCES only, if preferred. Requires Colorado Teaching License with an endorsement in Visual Impairment and Orientation and Mobility Specialist. Responsibilities include completing assessments, providing direct and indirect service & attending IEP meetings as needed.

Opportunity for some services to be provided remotely. Salary: 3.5 days/wk-$31,018-$38,505, 1 day/wk $8,120-$10,080. Excellent Benefits including mileage reimbursement or use of a car. May be eligible for loan forgiveness and sign on bonus.

To apply please complete a Certified Application, located on our website at ecboces.org under “Jobs” at the bottom of the page. Once completed, application can be sent to Tracy at tracyg@ecboces.org,.

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Special Education Paraprofessionals Full & Part-Time Special Education Paraprofessionals needed for our West Area Center-based Learning Program located in Strasburg.

Competitive pay and benefits including individual health insurance . $13-$17 per hour depending on experience. May be eligible for Sign On Bonus! To apply for this position, please complete the Classified Application for Employment available for download on the ecboces.org website under “Jobs” or contact Tracy at (719) 775-2342, ext. 101.

Please fax completed application to 719-771-4001 or email it to tracyg@ ecboces.org Equal Opportunity Employer

Wildlife Property Seasonal Colorado Parks and Wildlife is hiring a temporary employee to work at Mt. Evans State Wildlife Area. The position will start June 1 and remain through September. Job duties include property management such as weed spraying, fence building and repair, planting food plots, timber management, and trail maintenance; equipment maintenance; building maintenance, including cleaning restrooms weekly. Applicants must be able to apply herbicide, perform physical labor, and have a valid driver’s license. Experience with the job duties and with agricultural type equipment is beneficial but not required. The work week is somewhat flexible and offers 32-40 hours per week.

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Full-Time Early Childhood Special Education Teacher and Child Find Coordinator For East Central BOCES for the 2022-2023 school year. Complete assessment & provide direct and indirect services with preschool children in rural school settings.

Requires a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education. Can be hired with a Bachelor’s Degree in a Related Field if willing to enter into a Master’s degree program in Early Childhood Special Education upon hire. Salary Range BA-$34,650 to $42,350 and MA $39,900-$47,600 dependent on experience. Excellent benefits, including full health benefits, and use of a car or mileage reimbursement. May be eligible for loan forgiveness. Financial support may be available through grants if required to enroll in a Master’s degree program. Questions contact Tracy (719) 775-2342 ext. 101.

To apply for this position, please complete the Certified Application for Employment available on the East Central BOCES website ecboces. org under “Jobs”.

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.

May be eligible for Sign On Bonus!

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.

Registered Occupational Therapist Full-Time and part-time Registered Occupational Therapist. OTR must have, or be eligible for appropriate Colorado licensure. Provide Pre-12 intervention, assessment, direct & indirect services just east of Denver on I-70, Bennett, Strasburg Byers & Kiowa areas. Support from an experienced COTA is available.

Full Time Salary range for OTD: $49,350-$60,550. Part-Time Salary prorated based on the number of days employed. Excellent benefits.

Access to a company vehicle or mileage reimbursement. May be eligible for a loan forgiveness program and signing bonus. To apply for this position, please complete the Certified Application for Employment available on the East Central BOCES website www. ecboces.org under “Jobs”. EOE Questions contact Tracy at (719) 775-2342, ext. 101 or email tracyg@ ecboces.org

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f d i J Help Wanted e School Psychologist or Intern n East Central BOCES is seeking at Full-Time School Psychologist ore Intern to join our dynamic, multi-e disciplinary team of professionalsr for the 2022-23 school year.i

Educational Specialist (Ed.S.), Colorado certified. Provide PreK-12 c intervention including assessment, development of IEP’s & consultationf services. Competitive salaries: ED.So $51,450-60,900 & Intern $47,600-A $52,400, both commensurate upon experience. excellent benefitsb including dental, vision, and medicalw insurance. May be eligible for Signs On Bonus! May also be eligible2 for loan forgiveness. Flexible s schedule. Use of a car or mileage h reimbursement. Questions contact Tracy (719) 775-2342, ext. 101.c To apply for this position, please complete the Certified Application for Employment available on the East Central BOCES website www. ecboces.org under “Jobs”. EOE

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Accounting Assistant and Legal Advertising Specialist Colorado Community Media is hiring a detail-oriented administrative specialist to assist in posting receivables and to schedule legal notices. The job would be full time in our business office reporting to the Business Manager.

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Create and maintain daily files.

•Assist customers with questions on their balances and/or payments.

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•Flow ad files onto pages for insertion into weekly publications using design software (will train in InDesign) •Proof pages to ensure accuracy •Act as customer service representative for both AR and legal notice publishing process Preferred skills: •Experience in accounts receivable preferable •Superior attention to detail •Ability to build and maintain solid customer relationships with professionalism and speed •Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs Once the candidate is fully trained this job can be performed part in-office (in Englewood) and part remote. Starting pay $14.50-$16.50/hour.

Applicants please send your resume to Audrey Brooks at abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Elbert County News 19

April 28, 2022

LEGISLATURE FROM PAGE 16

according to the U.S. Department of Treasury.

Colorado employers are on the hook for repaying the loan through additional fees. Annual unemployment insurance premiums increased in January because the trust fund was empty on June 30, the date of the annual health checkup. By state statute, that alone means Colorado employers shift to a higher rate. Colorado employers are now paying the highest rate possible (see the far right-column in this rate schedule).

Next year, employers will see their costs rise because of the new trust fund solvency surcharge and the loss of the Federal Unemployment Tax Act credit.

The proposed bill would address both. By shoring up the trust fund with $600 million, employers could see the solvency surcharge stop in 2026 in the best-case scenario of a strong economy. With no government help and a weak economy, the surcharge could continue to 2028.

The proposed $600 million would come from Colorado’s share of federal pandemic relief through Congress’ American Rescue Plan Act. At least 16 other states have used American Rescue Plan Act money to replenish some or all of their depleted trust funds, according to the Economic Policy Institute.

Texas repaid its entire unemployment debt using federal money. Some Republicans in the Colorado legislature have unsuccessfully advocated for doing the same.

The Colorado labor department said using the money to pay the federal loan to avoid the additional interest is the “best use of $600 million of ARPA,” said Daniel Chase, the state labor department’s chief of staff.

“Our current plan would be to use about $580 million to pay down the loan balance upon receipt of the money, then hold the remaining amount to pay off the interest owed in September, which we estimate to be between $15 million and $20 million,” Chase said.

Federal law doesn’t allow states to use employer premiums to cover interest payments, so if Colorado didn’t set aside the $20 million balance for

interest, the state would have to find other alternatives, he said.

But Chase doesn’t think Colorado will try to pay off the rest of its federal debt the same way it did after the Great Recession. Back then, Colorado’s federal unemployment loan ballooned to $578.2 million by March 2011, according to a U.S. Government Accountability Office report. Surcharges kicked in and some Colorado employers said their premiums tripled. The business community backed an effort for the state to issue a bond to finance the debt and reduce their fees. The bond was paid off in May 2017.

Colorado’s economy has recovered much more quickly than it did after the Great Recession. As of February, the state had recovered all of the 375,400 jobs lost in the first two months of the pandemic. That’s why a bond may not be necessary, as employers are back to paying insurance premiums.

Nevertheless, the state labor department has bonding authority if needed. But it’s through the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, which was used during the Great Recession. CHFA no longer bonds for

state agencies. So state lawmakers must transfer the labor department’s bonding authority to the treasurer’s office, which is also in the proposed bill.

“While we don’t anticipate the need to bond to the degree of the Great Recession, we do want to enhance our tools available should we be close to paying off the debt at key points in the next year,” Chase said.

If the trust fund balance is positive on June 30 and the loan is paid off, employers can move to a lower premium rate in 2023. Even if the state misses the date but pays off the loan

by Nov. 10, the state avoids a FUTA credit reduction. But there are some models that show the state’s loan balance could still be $100 million.

“In that case,” Chase said, “bonding could be a financially viable option to hit that timeline.”

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.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 Legals Metropolitan Districts Public Notice NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS §1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the North Pines Metropolitan District, Elbert County, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 3, 2022 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S. The following candidates are hereby declared elected: Alan Luke: 3 year term until May, 2025 John Roberts: 3 year term until May, 2025 Kenneth Coffey: 3 year term until May, 2025 Dated this 15th day of April, 2022 _/s/Kathryn T. James Kathryn T. James Designated Election Official North Pines Metropolitan District Contact Person for the District: Kathryn T. James Telephone Number of the District: (303) 688-3045 Address of the District: 18 S. Wilcox Street, Suite 200 Castle Rock, CO 80104 District Facsimile Number: (303) 688-3189 District Email: james@ffcolorado.com Legal Notice No. 24831 First Publication: April 28, 2022 Last Publication: April 28, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News Public Notice NOTICE OF CANCELLATION and CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS §1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104,1-11-103(3) C.R.S. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Clearwater Metropolitan District, Elbert County, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the election, there were not more

candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 3, 2022 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S. The following candidates are hereby declared elected: Alan Luke: 3 year term until May, 2025 John Roberts: 3 year term until May, 2025 John Hulett: 3 year term until May, 2025 Dated this 15th day of April, 2022 _/s/Kathryn T. James Kathryn T. James Designated Election Official Clearwater Metropolitan District Contact Person for the District: Kathryn T. James Telephone Number of the District: (303) 688-3045 Address of the District: 18 S. Wilcox Street, Suite 200 Castle Rock, CO 80104 District Facsimile Number: (303) 688-3189 District Email: james@ffcolorado.com Legal Notice No. 24830 First Publication: April 28, 2022 Last Publication: April 28, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News

Summons and Sheriff Sale PUBLIC NOTICE DISTRICT COURT, COUNTY OF ELBERT, STATE OF COLORADO Case No. 2022CV30018 Plaintiff: Lincoln, LTD Defendants: HGT Enterprises; REB Development RLLLP; REB Investments, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company; and all unknown persons who claim any interest in the subject matter of this action To the Defendants named above: You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the complaint filed with the court in this action, by filing with the clerk of this court an answer or other response. You are required to file your answer or other response within 35 days after the service of this Summons upon you. Service of this summons shall be complete on the day of the last publication.

A copy of the complaint may be obtained from the clerk of the court.

If you fail to file your answer or other response to the complaint in writing within 35 days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the court for the relief demanded in the complaint without further notice.

legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com

This is an action to quiet title regarding the real property located in Elbert County, Colorado, legally described as follows: PARCEL A: A PARCEL OF PROPERTY LOCATED IN SECTION 25, TOWNSHIP 7 SOUTH, RANGE 63 WEST OF THE 6TH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN SHOWN AS "TRACT A" IN AMENDED AND RESTATED DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS, EASEMENTS AND RESTRICTIONS FOR SKY VIEW RANCH RECORDED FEBRUARY 20, 2013 IN BOOK 742 AT PAGE 803, ELBERT COUNTY COLORADO, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 25 AND CONSIDERING THE WEST LINE OF SAID NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SAID SECTION 25 TO BEAR SOUTH 00°14'00" EAST WITH ALL BEARINGS CONTAINED HEREIN RELATIVE THERETO; THENCE SOUTH 00°14'00” EAST, ALONG SAID WEST LINE, A DISTANCE OF 2629.35 FEET TO THE WEST 1/4 CORNER OF SAID SECTION 25; THENCE SOUTH 00°31'12" EAST, A DISTANCE OF 2629.08 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID SECTION 25; THENCE NORTH 88°14'23" EAST, ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 25, A DISTANCE OF 3900.02 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE EAST 1/2 OF SAID SECTION 25; THENCE NORTH 00°17'55" WEST, ALONG THE EAST LINE OF THE WEST 1/2 OF THE EAST 1/2 OF SAID SECTION 25, A DISTANCE OF 4224.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 78°57'25" WEST, A DISTANCE OF 1145.57 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE SOUTH 11°02'35" WEST A DISTANCE OF 684.77 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 86°36'33" WEST A DISTANCE OF 880.26 FEET; THENCE NORTH 11°336'22" EAST A DISTANCE OF 182.86 FEET TO A POINT OF CURVE; THENCE ALONG THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE RIGHT, HAVING A RADIUS OF 250.00 FEET, A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 13°36'24", AN ARC LENGTH OF 59.37 FEET; THENCE NORTH 25°12'49" EAST, A DISTANCE OF 530.72 FEET TO A POINT OF CURVE; THENCE ALONG THE ARC OF A CURVE TO THE LEFT, HAVING A RADIUS OF 160.00 FEET, A CENTRAL ANGLE OF 09°04'51", AN ARC LENGTH OF 25.36 FEET; THENCE NORTH 16°07'58" EAST A DISTANCE OF 123.54 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 78°57'25" EAST A DISTANCE OF 697.96 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, COUNTY OF ELBERT, STATE OF COLORADO. ALSO KNOWN AS: OUTLOT 15 ON SKY VIEW RANCH A TO A1 REZONE MAP RECORDED AUGUST 30, 2004 UNDER RECEPTION NO. 201099, AND RECORDED OCTOBER 24, 2005 AT RECEPTION NO. 201155, COUNTY OF ELBERT, STATE OF COLORADO (the “Property”).

You may receive copies of pleadings filed in the above-referenced matter from the Clerk of the Elbert County, Colorado, District Court or from Plaintiff’s counsel: Troy A. Sandberg, Sandberg Law LLC, 17011 Lincoln Ave., #348, Parker, Colorado 80134, (720) 940-5058.

Legal Notice No. 24832 First Publication: April 28, 2022

Last Publication: May 26, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News

submitted into evidence prior to the entry of the final order, the genetic tests may not be allowed into evidence at a later date.

Public Notice District Court , Elbert County, Colorado Court Address: 751 Ute Avenue P.O. Box 232, Kiowa, Colorado 80117 In re the Parental Responsibilities concerning: Matthew Stephen Wood Jr. Petitioner: Janae Nicole Eason and Respondent: Matthew Stephen Wood Jr. Party Without Attorney: Janae Eason 7781 Shenandoah Drive Elizabeth Colorado 80107 Phone Number: 1 720 753 2149 E-mail: janaekiva77@gmail.com Case Number: 21DR54 SUMMONS FOR ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES To the Respondent named above this Summons serves as a notice to appear in this case.

If you were served in the State of Colorado, you must file your Response with the clerk of this Court within 21 days after this Summons is served on you to participate in this action.

If you were served outside of the State of Colorado or you were served by publication, you must file your Response with the clerk of this Court within 35 days after this Summons is served on you to participate in this action.

You may be required to pay a filing fee with your Response. The Response form (JDF 1420) can be found at www.courts.state.co.us by clicking on the “Self Help/Forms” tab.

The Petition requests that the Court enter a Order addressing issues involving the children such as, child support, allocation of parental responsibilities, (decision-making and parenting time), attorney fees, and costs to the extent the Court has jurisdiction.

Notice: Colorado Revised Statutes §14-10-123, provides that upon the filing of a Petition for Allocation of Parental Responsibilities by the Petitioner and Co-Petitioner, or upon personal service of the Petition and Summons on the Respondent, or upon waiver and acceptance of service by the Respondent, an automatic temporary injunction shall be in effect against both parties until the Final Order is entered, or the Petition is dismissed, or until further Order of the Court. Either party may apply to the Court for further temporary orders, an expanded automatic temporary injunction, or modification or revocation under §14-10-125, C.R.S. A request for genetic tests shall not prejudice the requesting party in matters concerning allocation of parental responsibilities pursuant to §14-10124(1.5), C.R.S. If genetic tests are not obtained prior to a legal establishment of paternity and

Automatic Temporary Injunction – By Order of Colorado law, you and the other parties: 1. Are enjoined from molesting or disturbing the peace of the other party; and 2. Are restrained from removing the minor child(ren) from the state without the consent of all parties or an Order of the Court modifying the injunction; and 3. Are restrained, without at least 14 days advance notification and the written consent of all other parties or an Order of the Court, from cancelling, modifying, terminating, or allowing to lapse for nonpayment of premiums, any policy of health insurance or life insurance that provides coverage to the minor child(ren) as a beneficiary of a policy.

If you fail to file a Response in this case, any or all of the matters above, or any related matters which come before this Court, may be decided without further notice to you.

Date: February 18, 2022 /s/ Gary Michael Kramer Signature of the District Court Judge Legal Notice No. 24810 First Publication: April 14, 2022 Last Publication: May 12, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News

Notice to Creditors Public Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of ROBERT EUGENE ROGERS, (aka Robert E. Rogers and Robert Rogers), Deceased Case Number: 22PR30013

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Douglas County, Colorado on or before August 29, 2022 or the claims may be forever barred.

Robin D. Rogers (aka Robin Dawn Rogers) Personal Representative C/O Gubbels Law Office, P.C. 402 N. Wilcox Street, Suite 100 Castle Rock, CO 80104 Legal Notice No. 24828 First Publication: April 28, 2022 Last Publication: May 12, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News

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Elbert County Legals 4.28.22 * 1

20 Elbert County News

April 28, 2022

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