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Week of May 5, 2022

ELBERT COUNTY, COLORADO

A publication of

ElbertCountyNews.net

VOLUME 127 | ISSUE 12

Horse Council calls for readiness Local leaders share tips on equine evacuation BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

The Farmhouse Victorian home at the Independence development is a century old. It will be converted into a community center PHOTO BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON and coffee shop. Original artifacts from the home will be displayed there.

Craft highlights historic preservation The History Quest restores artifacts for farmhouse turned cafe BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Recently some residents have expressed their concerns regarding the preservation of historic structures in Elbert County. With the newly developed Elizabeth West, the Gold Creek Ranch farmhouse situated on Highway 86 between Walmart and Sonic Drive-In will be torn down to make way for new homes. SEE FARMHOUSE, P2

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

Antique canning jars preserved by The History Quest. COURTESY OF THE HISTORY QUEST

With the recent Elbert County Red Flag Warning causing elevated fire restrictions, residents have wanted to learn more about emergency preparedness, especially in the event of a wild brush fire. The Douglas-Elbert County Horse Council held their Emergency Preparedness Clinic on April 23 at the Elbert County Fairgrounds. More than 50 Horse Council members and community leaders were present at the event to discuss county emergency preparedness regarding horses and pets. Speakers tackled several topics throughout the course of the event, including: 1. Considerations for preparing your horse for a disaster situation 2. Prioritizing and making prior arrangements 3. Preparing property for an emergency 4. Preparing a disaster kit 5. How to reclaim your horse 6. What to do with household pets Elbert County Emergency Management Director Shane Pynes kicked off the event outlining Elbert County’s emergency response protocol. The goal of his talk was to increase resident understanding of the emergency response process so they can make informed decisions regarding life safety. Pynes also outlined the various organizations that work together in the event of an emergency to help the people of Douglas and Elbert SEE HORSE, P4

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2 Elbert County News

May 5, 2022

FARMHOUSE FROM PAGE 1

While the Gold Creek Ranch farmhouse is in a state of disrepair, some structures in better condition are being restored by developers to help preserve the heritage of Elbert County. Namely, many of the century-old structures located at Craft Companies’ Independence neighborhood site are being preserved and their associated artifacts restored. The Independence Homestead house, the Farmhouse Victorian and the barn are currently being transformed into shared community spaces and amenities. The Farmhouse Victorian, a structure dated to 1921, will be converted into a coffee shop and community center for residents and community members. Original artifacts from the structure have been restored and will be placed within the space so patrons can learn about and interact with the history of Elbert County. The historic artifacts associated with the structures are being preserved by The History Quest, a local company specializing in historical research, genealogy and restoration. They focus the majority of their efforts on historic ranches, farms and homes in Colorado. The History Quest is run by restoration specialist Shawn Strain, a lifetime local resident and former antiques shop owner in Elizabeth. In a phone interview from April 21, Strain expressed his interest in historic artifacts and the reconditioning process. “I was raised by my grandparents and grew an appreciation for the old ways and old things at a young age,” explained Strain. “I now like to do reconditioning of the artifacts. The artifacts can leave a story. Reconditioning lets me keep some of their bumps and bruises and show their history.” Strain also shared his experience working on the Independence Farmhouse Victorian and plans for the coffee shop conversion. “We are restoring everything from furniture down to small little kitchen items like glassware. There is a plan to switch them out of the coffee shop seasonally so community members who come through can experience all the different artifacts,” said Strain. “Some resto-

Early 1900s Enterprise Manufacturing Company lard press in its pre-restoration state. It is among artifacts being preserved PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE HISTORY QUEST by The History Quest.

ration took a while though. When we got to the house, there was some damage done to the artifacts due to weather and some unwanted visitors, like birds.” According to Strain, the restoration process that The History Quests has utilized to recondition the artifacts is as follows: 1. Dispose of things that are too damaged to restore. 2. Categorize artifacts into groups. 3. Inventory artifacts based on historical significance. 4. Wash and clean the artifacts. 5. Wrap and store artifacts that will be presented to the public. In an email correspondence from April 21, Strain also explained the steps that Independence and Craft Companies have taken toward general historic and environmental preservation, writing: SEE FARMHOUSE, P3

An early 1900s Enterprise Manufacturing Company lard press is shown in its restored state.

Restored personal care items that were found within the Farmhouse Victorian at the Craft Companies’ Independence development.

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Elbert County News 3

May 5, 2022

The barn structure at the entrance of the Independence development.

FARMHOUSE FROM PAGE 2

“The three original windmills on the property have also been preserved as iconic landmarks, symbolizing the spirit of Independence to honor the past and guide the path forward. “In addition to the preservation of original buildings, wildlife corridors and natural vegetation have also been protected, and existing wetland habitats have been restored. “The Independence community has also partnered with the Butterfly Pavilion to create a Pollinator District that will ensure the landscape throughout the community provides an enriching habitat for both people and pollinators. “In collaboration with Denver Urban Gardens, shared commu-

nity gardens are also underway at Independence to cultivate new and experienced resident gardeners and to promote horticultural beauty and healthy living. This will be done by utilizing water wise techniques that combine methods used in this high plains desert for over 100 years with modern approaches. “I’ve enjoyed working with Craft Companies. I am very impressed with their support of local businesses, contribution to conservation, and ongoing support for the community. Even as controversial as the Independence project has been, I’m happy to work with them because they really do care about the community.” Elle Ethington, spokesperson for Craft Companies, shared the thoughts of an artist who took part in the preservation of the site’s barn: “We loved painting the vintage flag mural on Independence’s original

PHOTO BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON

barn because it enabled us to preserve and restore a historical part of the community through art,” said Larry Polzin of Denver-based Stargazer Creations. “It was our ideal project because it required a great deal of artistic creativity that resulted in a beautiful and unique piece of art that honors the past and will greet residents for years and years to come.”

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For more information about The History Quest, visit tinyurl.com/ ELBHistQuest To visit The History Quest on Facebook, go to facebook.com/ TheHistoryQuest You can also find images and videos of many of the artifacts that have been restored by The History Quest on TikTok and Instagram, both @thehistoryquest

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4 Elbert County News

May 5, 2022

HORSE FROM PAGE 1

counties. These include the Horse Council, the Dumb Friends League, American Red Cross, Humane Society, Arapahoe Search & Rescue, Colorado State Patrol, Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and various local community volunteer groups. After several speakers discussed general emergency preparedness, the presentation shifted, focusing on horse emergency preparedness. Speakers discussed devising an individualized plan for horses in an emergency, where people can go with horses during a disaster, what to do if a person is not at home when an evacuation order is given, etc. According to Ready Colorado, Colorado’s official source for homeland security and all-hazards preparedness information, owners should take several steps to prepare their horses for an emergency: 1. Teach horses to load. 2. Either own a trailer or arrange access to a trailer in the event of an evacuation. 3. Make sure all vaccinations are up-to-date and follow through with other preventive healthcare recommended by your veterinarian. 4. Have identification, such as: A. Quality photographs B. Brand inspection if applicable C. Registration papers D. Microchip number and registration 5. Give copies of essential identification information to someone out

Douglas-Elbert County Horse Council members walk into the emergency preparedness PHOTOS BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON clinic on April 23 at the Elbert County Fairgrounds.

of the area. Another big topic was the preparing of a disaster kit. Much different from a disaster kit for a human, horses require specialized items to survive and thrive in the event of an emergency. In a large, waterproof container like a trash can or large plastic bin, horse owners should compile several items: 1. First aid kit (sharp wire cutters, knife, bandage scissors, elastic wraps, towels, cotton bandages, compresses, adhesive tape, bacterial soap and/or saline solution, Epsom salt, fly repellent, antibacterial wound dressing, rectal veterinary thermometer, hoof pick, twitch and

duct tape. 2. Prepare hay, grain, and supplements in watertight containers. 3. Water bucket(s) and water with electrolytes if possible. 4. Leg wraps and horse blankets. 5. Lead ropes, halters, or shanks. 6. Shovel or manure fork. 7. Portable radio, flashlights and extra batteries. 8. Lime, soap and bleach for disinfecting. 9. Prescription medications and/ or a copy of the prescription from a veterinarian. Leaders recommended having a two-week supply of as many first aid kit items as possible. Blizzards or extensive disaster damage can

Elbert County Director of Emergency Management Shane Pynes opens the emergency preparedness clinic with the county’s process for handling emergency situations.

block roads and prolong period of time between shopping trips. In addition to presentations on disaster preparedness, local leaders fielded council member questions regarding protocol. One member raised a concern about the effectiveness of the Code Red emergency alert system. The member argued that the system does not run as fluidly as described by emergency management officials. Anne L. Walton, Douglas County Emergency Management Coordinator, offered a rebuttal, acknowledging the system’s shortcomings while also encouraging resident SEE HORSE, P5

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Elbert County News 5

May 5, 2022

HORSE FROM PAGE 4

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proactivity. “Code Red can get bogged down. It isn’t perfect. They are electronic systems. The issues with the system are closely monitored and they are trying to get resolved as soon as possible. But yes, the systems do get bogged down,” explained Walton. “You should be going in every year to make sure that your information is accurate. Be mindful.” Pynes interjected, backing up Walton. “There are some kinks,” said Pynes. “(U.S. Sen. John) Hickenlooper is currently working to help mitigate some of these gaps.” On April 20, Colorado Senator, John Hickenlooper released a statement on his website indicating that he and Sen. Michael Bennet have urged the Federal Communications Commission to adopt new rules to improve the Wireless Emergency Alert System. According to the press release, the adoption of new rules would help ensure that these systems are more reliable for state and local governments during emergencies and natural disasters. For questions about Elbert County emergency preparedness, visit tinyurl. com/ELBEmerg For Douglas County emergency preparedness, contact Anne L. Walton at 303-660-7589 or by email at alwalton@ dcsheriff.net To reach Douglas-Elbert County Horse Council leadership, contact Cindy Adams (president) at 303-646-2303 or by email at nccadams3@gmail.com To read Hickenlooper’s news release, visit tinyurl.com/ELBHink

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6 Elbert County News

May 5, 2022

Colorado has models for universal preschool Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Florida and Vermont may serve as examples BY ANN SCHIMKE CHALKBEAT COLORADO

When Colorado launches free preschool for 4-year-olds in 2023, it will join four other states that already offer universal preschool. All of them have encountered the same tricky task Colorado leaders now face as they try to knit together a disparate patchwork of public and private preschools into an equitable and high-quality statewide system. We’ll take a look at some of the lessons learned in four states: Florida, Oklahoma, Vermont and Wisconsin. Some, like Oklahoma, have offered the program for decades, while others, like Vermont — one of the few places to offer free preschool to all 3- and 4-year-olds — have joined the club more recently. Wisconsin officials said they don’t consider their preschool program universal because school districts don’t have to offer the state-funded classes, though 99% do. Colorado’s universal preschool program will offer 10 hours a week to all 4-year-olds, with children who have higher needs eligible for more. Funding will come from Colorado’s existing state-funded preschool program, which is for children from low-income families, or who

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have language delays, or other risk factors, and proceeds from a voterapproved nicotine tax. Advocates in the four states cited ongoing challenges in everything from ensuring high-quality offerings to making part-day preschool work for families, but they also said the programs are generally popular. In all four states, at least 70% of 4-year-olds participated prior to the pandemic. Sherry Carlson, chief program officer at the Vermont advocacy group, Let’s Grow Kids, said the state’s system is not perfect, but “usage is an indication that we’re on the right track.”

The half-day problem Colorado’s plan to offer 10 hours of preschool a week to most children is similar to preschool programs in states like Florida, Vermont, and Wisconsin. The problem is that halfday programs don’t work for a lot of families. Professor Beth Graue, director of the Center for Research on Early Childhood Education at the University of Wisconsin Madison, studied Wisconsin parents’ preschool choices and found that many declined to enroll in the program because of the schedule. “The half-day format is a nightmare for at least a third of all the

parents we surveyed,” she said. “It’s curious to me in today’s day and age that people imagine that a half day would work.“ When universal preschool originally launched in Florida, the vision was to offer both a 3-hour and a 6-hour preschool day, but there was never enough funding for the longer day, said Madeleine Thakur, president of the advocacy group, The Children’s Movement of Florida. Some schools — those that receive federal funds for low-income students — cover the extra cost of fullday preschool for some students, but SEE PRESCHOOL, P7

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Elbert County News 7

May 5, 2022

PRESCHOOL FROM PAGE 6

the coveted spots are in short supply. In Vermont, momentum had been growing to increase the number of state-funded preschool hours beyond the current 10 a week, but the pandemic derailed that discussion, said Carlson. “There is a lot of agreement, particularly among working families and schools, that more time would be better,” she said. Teacher qualification conundrum The four states profiled have various requirements for universal preschool teachers — Oklahoma and Wisconsin require them to have bachelor’s degrees, while Florida does not. Vermont is something of a hybrid — requiring bachelor’s degrees for universal preschool teachers in public school settings, but not for all teachers in private settings. These differences reflect both ongoing national debate about whether teachers with four-year college degrees provide better preschool experiences than those without, and the reality that such requirements pose a major financial barrier in light of the field’s low pay. The National Institute for Early Education Research, which ranks states annually on preschool access and funding, includes bachelor’s degree requirements among 10 benchmarks showing whether states have key quality standards in place. Experts say preschool can produce short- and long-term benefits for kids, but only if it’s high quality. Colorado’s existing preschool program doesn’t require bachelor’s degrees and meets only four of the institute’s 10 benchmarks. Carlson, who estimated that 60% of Vermont’s universal preschoolers are served in private settings, said the more lenient degree requirements for those classrooms was one of the concessions made when the program began. The state has put money toward helping preschool teachers further their education, but more needs to be done, she said. Carlson’s advice to Colorado: “Be willing to compromise with a plan [that says] this is where we’re starting and we’re going to keep working to get to … where the vision was.” Thakur, of Florida, said many wonderful preschool teachers don’t have bachelor’s degrees currently so it shouldn’t be a requirement at the inception of a universal program. Plus, with teachers in private preschool settings often paid much less than public school counterparts, it’s not fair to require the degrees, she said. Who’s got access? The idea behind universal preschool is to serve every child whose parents want a spot, but that can be hard to deliver on a consistent statewide basis. Carlson said offering preschool in both public and private settings helps ensure access in Vermont, partly because private centers can often provide wraparound care that meshes with parents’ work schedules and locations. At the same time, some preschoolers with disabilities lose out on special education services if they attend preschool with

private providers outside of their school districts, she said. The goal should be to “put children and families at the center,” she said. “Then don’t let paperwork or artificial boundaries” get in the way. Joe Dorman, CEO at the Oklahoma Institute for Child Advocacy, said reaching rural children has been a struggle in his state. In some cases, it’s because of preschool staff shortages or a dearth of seats, but there are also some families who don’t see the value of preschool, he said. “This has been one of our crown jewels,” he said. “It amazes me that people won’t take the time to look at the benefits and see the good that can come from it.” Dorman said Colorado should educate parents about the free preschool program before children turn 4. “Begin the promotional process early,” he said. “Ensure that families recognize this.”

Upcoming Live Town Halls Join us for the County’s Live Town Hall meetings in-person, by phone or online to weigh-in on current topics including: May 5: Mental Health May 11: Home-based businesses May 26: Vacation rentals (VRBO and AirBNB) June 8: Broadband/SB 152 Visit douglas.co.us and search Live Town Halls for more information.

Preschool and K-12: separate or together? In some universal preschool states, school districts are in charge of overseeing the program locally and offer many preschool seats in public school classrooms. These factors make school districts a key player in the universal preschool discussion, but also raise questions about how close the association should be. Experts from other states said it’s important that universal preschool be designed around the developmental needs of young children. Thakur said Colorado leaders should be careful “not to bring the rigor of the K-12 system down into preschool.” “You’ve really got to focus on relationships, making sure children learn how to communicate, cooperate, listen, and follow routines,” she said. “Those are the kinds of things that are a real down payment for the kindergarten teacher.” Colorado’s existing preschool program is administered by school districts and 77% of students attend the program in public school classrooms, but planned changes could shake up public schools’ role in universal preschool. Graue agreed that preschool should be developmentally appropriate, not narrowly focused on math and literacy, but also noted the downsides of divorcing preschool and K-12 policy. During a statewide class size reduction effort in Wisconsin, for example, Graue said kindergarten classes went down to 15 children, but preschool classes in the same buildings were often much larger because they weren’t included in the state initiative. In addition, although Wisconsin’s state-funded preschool classrooms in private settings must adhere to class size caps mandated by state child care regulations, public schools aren’t subject to those limits. Instead, each district establishes its own preschool class size rules. “That’s the problem of the 4K (Wisconsin preschool) program working in this liminal space between K-12 and the child care system,” Graue said.

Ballots will be mailed to eligible voters beginning on June 6. 24-hour Ballot Drop Box locations open. Learn more at DouglasVotes.com or 303.660.7444.

This story is from Chalkbeat Colorado, a nonprofit news site covering educational change in public schools. Used by permission. For more, and to support Chalkbeat, visit co.chalkbeat. org.

Visit douglas.co.us

Interested in becoming a foster parent or adopting a child? Meeting are open to anyone interested in learning about foster care and adoption. Information meetings are free and remote via Zoom on May 9 and 29 from 6-7:30 p.m. For information call 303.636.1KID or register online at collaborativefostercare.com and select Information Meeting.

Wildfires happen. Get notified. It only takes one spark and a matter of seconds for disaster to strike and change your life forever. Be aware if dangerous circumstances are expected or happening near you. Sign up for free emergency notifications at DouglasCountyCodeRED.com

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Become Election-Ready Today! Primary Election June 28, 2022 » » » »

8 Elbert County News

May 5, 2022

Attempt to stop water speculation is circling the drain Colorado lawmakers don’t have appetite for hurting farmers’ ability to sell BY MICHAEL BOOTH THE COLORADO SUN

A move to dry up water speculation once and for all in Colorado ended at the legislature despite intense supply pressures from drought and water developers, as lawmakers said they’re loath to hurt farmers’ ability to sell their most valuable asset. The Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee tabled the anti-speculation bill after first accepting an amendment to turn it into a between-sessions study of the problem. Technically, the measure could be revived, but the bill’s sponsors say the issue is over for this year. As the headwaters of the most important rivers in the West, serving tens of millions of people Colorado “is the prime target” for water speculators, said sponsor Sen. Don Coram, R-Montrose. “There is a real danger of those billion-dollar funds coming in and taking possession of that water,” Coram told the committee last week. Lawmakers and water conservation district representatives who work with farmers countered that water courts already prevent outright speculation, and that making sale of water rights harder would be a blow to the biggest property right that state farmers and ranchers possess. The biggest issue for farmers right now, they said, is competing with wealthy cities for a limited water supply. “We don’t see speculation,” said Joe Frank, director of the Lower South Platte Water Conservancy District in northeastern Colorado. “Instead we see pressure from municipal providers buying up

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agricultural supply for future dryups.” Colorado already has anti-speculation laws that require people to put their water rights to “beneficial use,” such as irrigating a farm, delivering tap water for a city, or releasing more water into rivers for recreation. Water courts require those filing for a new use of a water right to show they have a customer for the new beneficial use. But there’s not a clear agreement on when legal brokering looks more like a speculative transaction. State water experts say unanswered questions include how long a water buyer has to use the right before selling it to another party without the deal being considered an illegal flip. There is also no clear consequence if a buyer later changes the use of the water that

they expressed when acquiring the water right. The bill backed by Coram and Sen. Kerry Donovan, a Vail Democrat, aimed to target situations where a water right is purchased specifically with the intent to make a profit in a later sale or transaction. Coram claimed in backing the bill last week that it’s already happening. He pointed to Water Asset Management, an out-of-state investor that has bought up shares in the Grand Valley Water Users Association. The New York investor currently leases the water rights back to local farmers, has said it is involved in agriculture for the long term, and has worked on water conservation improvements. But Coram said there’s little to stop the investor from getting paid by downstream states to let the water

flow down the Colorado River instead of watering in-state crops. Those wanting to curb speculation also bring up the San Luis Valley, where private investors from the Front Range want to use well water rights they’ve bought up to pipe over to Douglas County or other fast-growing suburban buyers. “Somehow, somewhere, we need to put the guardrails on to protect the water for the people of Colorado,” Coram said. He noted he has worked on anti-speculation legislation unsuccessfully since 2019, and that at the current pace, the legislature won’t do anything until “after the water has already left the state.” Donovan said increasing drought and growth pressures threaten Colorado with a compact call in coming years, meaning state or federal authorities will cut off local uses of Colorado River water to satisfy agreements with Lower Basin states like California, Nevada and Arizona. When Colorado needs to find water in a compact call, Donovan said, the state should not “find ourselves negotiating in a time of crisis with someone who just wants the highest price.” Coloradans are understandably nervous, she added, about curtailing the assets of farmers, and she understands that “water always takes a long time to figure out.” But she was disappointed, she said, that even the amendment for further legislative study couldn’t move forward. “I was hopeful that by having a bill we’d force conversation,” she said.

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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Elbert County News 9

May 5, 2022

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10 Elbert County News

LOCAL

May 5, 2022

VOICES

A bit spoiled

n April 20, the afternoon became rough as reality set in on just how much we are tied to our phones. The reality hit on a particular day where it was not convenient either. FROM THE Around 1:30 p.m., I picked up the phone and tried to call EDITOR my husband while driving to an eye doctor appointment. I wanted to talk about dinner and see what the doctor said about our son. I tried dialing only to get a strange message about the call failing. I thought it was just a glitch and tried again. I soon got a text telling me Thelma Grimes my husband could see that I was calling but could not answer it. Then, we did the usual — restart the phone, reset network settings and, strangely, turn it to airplane mode and back off again. None of those tricks worked. Most afternoons the inability to make an actual phone call would be fine. But it was on this afternoon on April 20 that I started to question how reliant we as a society are on these traveling companions. While I was at the eye doctor, my husband wrote to say the place where our son’s antibiotic was called into did not have any supplies. They said they were too understaffed to call another Walgreens for us. Well, that led to a back-and-forth about calling the doctor — oh, wait, we can’t. Then, the quick advice to just call another Walgreens — oh, wait, we can’t. With the husband doing work meetings, I was sitting at the eye doctor thinking they need to hurry so I can drive to either the doctor’s office to get a written script or drive to another Walgreens to see if they had supplies. I soon realized I too had a work call coming up. Had to quickly send out an email to say it couldn’t happen. Driving to Walgreens, I realized that once mobile devices are down, at least in my home, there is no alternative. We let the landline at our house go a long time ago. None of our devices were working to call out. I made it to the Walgreens and had them look up my son’s information. She soon said she will give me a call when it is complete. I had to say no. I can’t get calls right now. I asked for a text or email. This may have been a few hours in one afternoon that just had a few out-of-the-ordinary obstacles, but still, I have to say I was taken back with how much it bothered me that I could not call out. That I could not take any calls. In the end, all worked out, I just had to do a little more work to get things done. Maybe, that is a good thing that I did not have the luxury of the phone to take care of everything. I can say this – it is a pain to do without the phone. Maybe it is a wake-up call on how spoiled we are. How good we have it sometimes and how we take some many our luxuries for granted because most days they are just there.

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Ideas for the holiday that’s truly for everyone

ou’ve seen the ads, the social media posts, signs in the windows — all getting ready for a day that many people impatiently anticipate or dread. Yup, it’s Mother’s Day again. When GUEST some children can’t wait to COLUMN surprise their moms, mothers think it’s all about them, and dads are thinking, “Do I really have to wait another month for MY celebration?” But it can also be a day of grieving a mom who’s no longer with us or one we never had the chance to meet. So, I thought I’d share some thoughts not just for moms, but for everyone on this Linda Newell day. If you’ve got a new or newer mom in your family, you’re probably trying to figure out what to get that is celebratory of new motherhood. Well, I can share what has worked (and didn’t) for me. I’ll always remember my very first pre-Mother’s Day gift when I was pregnant — a beautiful print of an Erte painting. It was bold, beautiful, and unique; everything I hoped I would be as a mother. But I’ll also never forget my actual first Mother’s Day gift — a dustbuster. My, how my life had changed so quickly. Our first child was about nine months old, and I guess my husband at the time thought that it would be useful. Yes, it did help to get all those crumbs and Cheerios under the high chair. But a dustbuster? In one year I felt like I was first being seen as a woman who was full of wonder and mystery and then suddenly as the housemaid. So, if you’re considering buying a gift for the mothers in your life, please DON’T give them a household item to help with chores!

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The young kids are most likely very excited to give that creative piece of artwork they hope Mom keeps forever in the family treasure boxes. (Moms, if you throw these away, you may not want to do it in front of your kids.) Mother’s Day can be a great day for multi-generational time with all the moms in your family getting together and sharing the children’s birth stories for the umpteenth time. Some of the family may not want to hear these again, but there’s perhaps nothing more sacred than oral storytelling of our family origin stories. In one afternoon, we can all be reminded of just how special and human we all are. Children never get tired of hearing how wanted they are in the family and the world, even if they came by accident. And the mothers I know never tire of hearing how appreciated and loved they are, no matter how old. But for some, it can also be a painful day of grief. For those of us who have lost or have never known our moms, it can be a reflective time of vivid memories of what once was or those wished but never were. This year, may we remember the joys we had and also honor our resilience for living the best life we could no matter what was given to us. So, may we all be gentle and loving on this day whatever our circumstances might be. Hopefully, we can all find a way to celebrate (and/ or forgive) the moms around us, from us, and within us. Former Colorado state senator, Linda Newell is a writer, instructor, facilitator and conflict and DEI coach. Senlindanewell@gmail.com, www. lindanewell.org, www.senlindanewell.com, @ sennewell on Twitter, Senator Linda Newell on Facebook.

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

May 5, 2022

We all have hills to climb

any years ago, there was a video out, I believe it was produced by Hungry Man Dinners. And the title was the NFL’s Hungriest Men. One of the featured WINNING athletes was my WORDS favorite player that I had the opportunity and blessing to watch play the game, Walter Payton. Although I was a Minnesota Vikings fan and he was a Chicago Bear, meaning we Michael Norton were rivals, he was just too good and a very special man and player. Walter could run around a defender, juking his way down the field. Walter could also run through and over a defender regardless of size, he was fast, strong, and elusive. His nickname was “Sweetness.” So well deserved as it was truly sweet to watch him play. He was also a very caring man, but that was not how he earned the nickname sweetness.

The story is that during a college football practice he eluded a would-be tackler and yelled back at him, “Sweetness is your weakness.” In the video I am referring to, they captured a part of Walter’s workout routine, running hills. If any of you reading this remember your high school or college playing days, you remember we ran hills and we ran bleachers. The agony was dreaded, but the payoff worth every step up the hill or stairs. Here is Walter Payton, recognized as the greatest or one of the greatest to ever play the game. How did he get there? He climbed hills. Right now, we are all climbing hills and we either recognize it and climb no matter how tired we are, or we give up, letting the hill win. If we give in, just like the “house” always wins in a casino, the hill will always win too. And I know for some of us, the hill seems more like a mountain than it does a hill. And as we look ahead at what seems like a mountain instead of a hill, this could mean that we see ourselves in a valley, and we can eas-

ily become discouraged. When I have been there myself, I lean into this quote by Fred Smith, “The fruit we grow in the valleys of despair is the food we will eat on the mountaintop.” In the past two columns I shared how changing our thoughts and/ or our actions will change the outcome of anything we are endeavoring to do. And sometimes, no matter how positive we keep our thoughts, or the effort or actions we apply, there are times when we need to tap into those extra reserves of positivity and effort to reach the outcome we desire most, so we climb the hill. Whatever our hill is, our faith, our family, our friends, our fitness or health, or our finances, we must keep climbing. We can climb harder to grow deeper in faith. We can climb with more commitment to our family and friends. We can climb farther when it comes to our fitness and health. And when it comes to our finances we can climb with greater discretion in our savings and spending. Climbing the hills and going deeper in faith; get back into regu-

larly attending church, participate in a Bible study or devotional group. Climbing with more commitment to our family and friends; make it a point to check in more often and be intentional about spending time together. Climbing the hill to achieve greater health and fitness; walk, get to the gym, make better eating, drinking, and sleeping decisions. Climbing the hill financially with greater discretion in savings and spending; create a savings plan, set a budget, stick to that budget, and maybe read one of Dave Ramsey’s books starting with “Total Money Makeover.” What’s your hill? I know that whatever it is, you have the climb within you. As always, I would love to hear your story at mnorton@xinnix.com. And when we remember that we can climb our way to achieving our goals and dreams, it really will be a better than good year. Michael Norton is the grateful President of XINNIX, a personal and professional coach, and a consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator to businesses of all sizes.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Urge action on mental health May is Mental Health Awareness Month. As a volunteer and advocate with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, this month I am asking everyone to join us and demand #MoreForMentalHealth. I currently work as a Colorado Certified Peer and Family Specialist at Colorado Crisis Services/ Rocky Mountain Crisis Partners. We are going to be answering calls from 988 on top of our regular calls. It is important to me to have higher funding for Mental Health services to keep psychiatric hospitals, treatment centers, and hot lines/warm lines as available and very important options for those struggling with mental health. As a Peer Specialist, I have my own lived experiences in mental health including hospitalizations, suicide attempts, therapy, IOP/PHP programs, and psychiatric medication needs. I truly believe there is not enough funding for these needs leading to more people struggling with mental health to complete suicide. I am doing more by calling on my legislators at the federal and state levels to support legislation that will fund the implementation of 988 and the suicide and mental health crisis system across our nation,

particularly for those in underserved communities. Currently, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-8255 and de-escalates the crises of tens of thousands of callers each day. On July 16, those in distress and those that support them will be able to reach the Lifeline through a simple 3-digit number: 988. By making the Lifeline more accessible through this shorter number, calls, texts, and chats to the Lifeline’s network of crisis call centers are expected to increase. It is vital that the federal government work with states to ensure callers in distress will have: 1) someone to call, 2) someone to come help, and 3) somewhere safe to go. We must act now to secure funding to equip call centers and community crisis response services throughout the country with the staff and resources to respond to everyone in crisis. Join me this month in urging our federal and state public officials to do #MoreForMentalHealth. You can start by visiting moreformentalhealth.org. Together, we can help #StopSuicide. Ann Marie Ward Englewood

TURN TO THE COLORADO SUN FOR NEWS ACROSS THE STATE The Colorado Sun is a journalistowned, award-winning news outlet that strives to cover all of Colorado so that our state — our community — can better understand itself. In this way, The Sun contributes to a more vibrant, informed and whole Colorado. The Sun, launched in 2018, is committed to fact-based, in-depth and nonpartisan journalism. It covers everything

from politics and culture to the outdoor industry and education. Now, The Colorado Sun co-owns this and other Colorado Community Media newspapers as a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy. The Sun is CCM’s partner for statewide news. For Colorado Sun stories, opinions and more, and to support The Sun’s misssion as a member or subscriber, visit coloradosun.com.

Memory In Loving

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

May 5, 2022

LIFE

Despite fussy reputation, orchids are far from delicate BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY DGRIGSBY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

rchids have been around for millions of years and thrive on every continent except Antarctica. But with such a hearty ancestry, how do you keep from killing them once you bring them home from the grocery store? Whether you’ve purchased one for yourself or received one as a gift, you may be among those that find orchids intimidating. Although growing in popularity, expert growers say these exotic beauties are, perhaps, among the most misunderstood of all houseplants.

Greenhouse attendant Althea McKinney stands among thousands of orchids at Fantasy Orchids in Louisville, one of the largest retail and wholesale orchids suppliers to the state. She said growing orchids in Colorado is not as difficult as many believe — there PHOTOS BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY are approximately 20 species of orchids that are native to the Centennial State.

A brief history of orchids Opinions on when and where orchids first appeared on earth are as varied as the plant itself. However, research points to sometime between 60 and 190 million years ago. The Chinese philosopher and statesman Confusious often wrote about orchids, immortalizing their beauty and fragrance in his poetry. Other formalized references to orchids appear in print between 350 B.C. and 287 B.C. in Theophrastus’s “Enquiry Into Plants,” an early manual that described and classified plants. In early Greece, orchids were SEE ORCHIDS, P13

Orchids are the largest group of flowering plants on earth. Unfortunately, they are also among the most misunderstood. Their exotic blooms and aerial roots often give the impression of being demanding and challenging when it comes to care. However, orchid experts say they are one of the most resilient and longest blooming houseplants available to plant lovers of all skill levels.

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Elbert County News 13

May 5, 2022

ORCHIDS FROM PAGE 12

revered as symbols of fertility, as the Greek word óchis translates as testicle, inspired by the shape of its root. In some stories, women would ingest large amounts of orchis roots if they wanted to have a son and less if they wanted a girl. Orchids eventually made their way to the wealthy in England through financed collecting expeditions. Many publications cite instances of “orchidelirium” or orchid madness during Victorian times. Voracious appetites for cultivating, selling, and trading the unusual flowers among the upper class gave rise to organized groups of collectors and early orchid publications and societies. Many rare species died en route from their native habitat or at the hands of inexperienced handlers, driving up the price exponentially. Some orchids were so sought-after by anxious collectors that entire species were destroyed. A recent article by The Guardian’s reporter Patrick Greenfield tells of modern-day orchid smugglers in England have warranted increased security around the Kew Royal Botanic Gardens to prevent theft of rare and unusual spe cies. About that grocery store orchid Today, orchids can be found almost anywhere, including your local supermarket florist and the garden section at hardware stores. According to Althea McKinney, an orchid expert and greenhouse attendant at Fantasy Orchids in Louisville, Colorado, home to the most extensive collection of orchids in the Rocky Mountain region, most grocery store orchids are of the Phalaenopsis variety, more commonly known as moth orchids. They are monopodial, meaning they typically grow from a single stem. But buying an orchid is the easy part, right? Well, yes. But McKinney says caring for your orchid can also be easy. She said that what gets most newly-minted orchid lovers in trouble is the care tag that comes with the orchid. McKinney said some tags instruct the owner to toss the plant in the garbage after it blooms. Other tags will say water the plant

Like fine dust, orchid seeds float away from a seed pod. They are among the smallest seeds in the world. While it is possible to grow orchids directly from seed, it can take more than two years before any leaf growth is visible. PHOTOS BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY

with ice cubes. “It’s really just a marketing thing,” she said. “They want to provide a cheap plant and then get you to buy another. I can tell you that watering an orchid with ice cubes will damage the root structure over time.” So what’s the secret to not killing them? McKinney says it’s simple. Orchids, by design, thrive on benign neglect. They need only water, fertilizer and sunlight. No classical music is required. To be fair, orchids are a little different than other household plants. “They grow in the same jungle as your typical snake plants, spider plants and monsteras, but those plants all grow on the jungle floor. Orchids grow up in the trees,” McKinney said. And that means watering them beckons a whole new school of thought. “If you think about it, the orchid’s roots are pretty exposed in their natural environment, so water rushes over them,” she said. “And then they dry out pretty quickly, compared to a typical houseplant that grows in soil.” But the main thing to remember is that orchids never sit in water for prolonged periods. McKinney recommends watering your new orchid by plunging it, still in its slotted plastic container, into lukewarm water. The idea is to quickly saturate everything in the pot and then let it dry out between waterings. Overwatering is among the most

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Aerial roots from orchids are not uncommon. They help the plant absorb moisture and micronutrients from the air. Excessive aerial roots may indicate the orchid needs repotting

frequent causes of orchid deaths. “I usually suggest soaking your orchid for no more than five minutes, or just or just running water through the pot for 30 seconds,” she said. “That’s all there is to it.” And while you’re watering, think about light and fertilizer. “We fertilize every single time we water,” McKinney said. “A lot of people will come in with a plant, and I can tell that has been 10 feet away from a window, they have not fertilized it the entire time they’ve had it—and get frustrated because they can’t get it to rebloom. Light, nutrients and proper watering is the key.” She said just follow the instructions that come with the bag of fertilizer, but don’t go crazy. Over-fertilizing can burn your orchid’s root system.

Yes, but can they survive in Colorado? Orchids belong to the most prominent plant families in the world and come in many forms, shapes, sizes and colors. They have learned to thrive in various locations, including marshy bogs and mountain tops. McKinney said there are close to 20 species of orchids native to Colorado. Experts at the Denver Botanic Gardens say that number is closer to 25, albeit orchids native to Colorado are dormant most of the year and are far more diminutive than their glamorous tropical cousins. These orchids are found in moist shaded ravines and at altitudes between 8,000 and 11,000 feet. Peak bloom times range between late May and early September. Unfortunately, McKinney says Colorado’s cool, dry climate is not the biggest challenge to growing healthy orchids in the Centennial State. The biggest threat is the internet. “There’s a lot of misinformation floating around on the internet; much of it comes from YouTubers who don’t grow orchids in an environment like ours,” she said. “People try to mimic what people are doing on the other side of the world, which is a death sentence for these plants, which are very easy to care for.” Plants grown at Fantasy Orchids are already climatized to Colorado’s low-humidity environment. To learn more, visit Fantasy Orchids at www.fantasyorchids.com or visit their 10,000 square-foot orchid greenhouse at 830 W. Cherry St., Louisville, CO.

14 Elbert County News

May 5, 2022

w t t w e

l m o P fi P c t h a a

s t t U a

t w c W “ l t c y a a

U f In early March, Taras Overchuk, who lives in Highlands Ranch, traveled to Ukraine to support friends, family and Ukraine’s war efforts.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

Man from Ukraine starts aid fund in Colorado Highlands Ranch resident took supplies to homeland BY VICTORIA CARODINE AND JULIO SANDOVAL ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

When Russia started bombing his homeland, Taras Overchuk knew he had to do something — he just didn’t know what yet.

“For me it was hard to sit and do nothing,” said Overchuk, who moved from Zhytomyr, Ukraine to the United States about 12 years ago. “So when it all started, I couldn’t find a place for myself. I, like, stopped sleeping … could not concentrate or focus on anything.” At his home in Highlands Ranch, Overchuk checked the news every hour. In addition to feeling anguish for his country, Overchuk was worried for the safety of his family and friends still in Ukraine.

“I tried to connect with my friends and see what we can do, like maybe bring some supplies … and start something, but at that time I couldn’t find anything that would calm me down,” Overchuk explained. “I can not sit here and I need to support my people and see it from inside, as well.” Within the span of two days, Overchuk decided to go back to Ukraine to help support his friends and family still there and find out ways to assist Ukraine’s army. On

March 4, just a week after missiles first struck Kyiv, Overchuk flew to Poland where he bought a car to drive across the border into Ukraine. In March, Taras Overchuk traveled to Ukraine to support friends, family and the military. “So the plan was to buy a car in Poland, drive in, spend some time, donate the car, and return,” he said. “Visit my relatives, see SEE UKRAINE, P15

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Elbert County News 15

May 5, 2022

UKRAINE FROM PAGE 14

what is [needed] the most, meet the military guys, meet the volunteers, make some connection[s] so when I return, we could be more efficient.” After purchasing a car, Overchuk loaded up some medical equipment, such as first-aid kids and other supplies he purchased in Poland and headed for Lviv, his first stop. When he arrived at the Poland/Ukraine border, there were crowds swarming in both directions. Overchuk waited for four hours in line to get to the border and another three hours at the actual border. “I actually was in the line somewhere around 11 a.m. in the morning, and then crossed the border and actually entered Ukraine somewhere around 2 a.m. at night,” he said. Overchuk also went through multiple military checkpoints on his way to Lviv and Kyiv, which were complicated to go through, he said. When approaching a checkpoint, “you need to switch off the [head] lights,” Overchuk said. “You need to switch on the lights in[side] your car so they see you from inside your car. And this is the way you approach otherwise they may actually consider you to be a threat.” The line of people trying to leave Ukraine, Overchuk said, went on for miles. “My impression was like thousands of people…trying to get outside of Ukraine. And it was like

children, women mostly,” he recalled. “Seeing this flow of people is actually like… I couldn’t hold my tears actually. It was heartbreaking.” For Overchuk, experiencing his country like this was distressing. “At that moment,” he said, “it was a mix of, like, fear and anger and frustration as well…that this is all happening.” During his solo journey, Overchuk met volunteers in Lviv who told him what supplies they needed. He also met a military commander, he said, who Overchuk ended up donating his car to before departing Ukraine two weeks later. He also connected with at least a dozen friends and family members like his cousins and brother, who currently resides in Vinnytsia, a city in central Ukraine. Driving through the country took even longer because many of the main roads were blocked off because of Russian forces, according to Overchuk. The drive from Lviv to Kyiv, he said, was the scariest part of his journey. “There might be an air strike. Sometimes the siren is going on and people are trying to hide,” he said. “Just to work out your fear to actually drive close to the frontline and while you’re driving, you’re getting closer and closer so you kind of feel this fear.” The only way for Overchuk to cope with this fear was to help the war efforts. Upon returning to Colorado, Overchuk and several other of his Ukrainian friends founded the Ukraine Aid Fund, a nonprofit organization that sends crucial supplies to civilians in Ukraine

and its troops. Donors can choose three different ways to contribute to the cause from clothes to tactical supplies like body armor. So far, the organization has donated three cars and bulletproof vests. “It’s one of the things we can do here in America… is to get the message out that Ukraine requires help,” he said. “Who[ever] can donate, needs to donate. Who[ever] can influence the government, needs to influence the government to provide more support.” There’s a humanitarian crisis going on right now, Overchuk said. And in order to stop it, the war must be stopped. “And I don’t see any diplomatic decision right now,” he said. “Putin is not going to stop, unless he is stopped.” Overchuk, who moved to the United States for a better life for himself and his family, understands what could happen to his country if Putin wins the war. “You probably can see what is going on in Russia right now. The country, from my perspective, is going to the bottom of what society could be, where there is no freedom at all … no speech,” Overchuk said. “His goal is to eliminate Ukraine as a country … And nothing less than that is actually going to satisfy him.” This story is from Rocky Mountain PBS, a nonprofit public broadcaster providing community stories across Colorado over the air and online. Used by permission. For more, and to support Rocky Mountain PBS, visit rmpbs.org.

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16 Elbert County News

May 5, 2022

C R O S SWO R D P U Z Z L E

Douglas County car thefts keep law enforcement busy Castle Rock is outlier in state trends BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Stolen cars have recently become one of Douglas County law enforcement’s top priorities as thefts increase across the entire metro area with Castle Rock serving as the single exception. Data from the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority Metropolitan Auto Theft Task Force (C-MATT) shows car thefts up 20% in Douglas County between 2021 and 2020, while the metro area saw a 39% increase as a whole. Though Douglas County represents only 623 stolen cars out of the 27,409 metro area thefts, local law enforcement is reporting car theft is the top crime officers investigate. Of the 29 reporting agencies in CMATT’s annual report, Castle Rock was the only municipality or county

to see a decrease in the number of thefts in 2021 compared to 2020 at a rate of 25%. Cmr. Jason Lyons, of the Castle Rock Police Department, credited the difference to three main tactics, including installing a new license plate reading system, called FLOCK, at various places throughout the town. Like license plate readers installed on police cars, the FLOCK system scans license plates that pass the stationary reader, compares it to a national database and alerts officers when a plate is reported stolen or connected to a crime, warrant or missing person. ] Lyons estimated officers receive several alerts on a daily basis they follow up on. “Our officers will respond to the general area (of the specific license plate camera) and be on the lookout for that vehicle,” he explained. “We’re getting suspects arrested and vehicles recovered because we’re SEE CAR THEFTS, P19

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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

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. Please send a resume or inquiries to Will Spence, Wildlife Technician, by May 6, 2022. Contact info: Will Spence, Wildlife Technician. will.spence@state.co.us

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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.

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Elbert County News 19

May 5, 2022

CAR THEFTS FROM PAGE 16

able to respond to an area in real time after being notified of a stolen car.” With the real-time data, Lyons said officers are having more success arresting a person in connection with the theft as opposed to only recovering the stolen car. C-MATT data shows Castle Rock police recovered 79% of stolen cars within 30 days, which aligns with other Douglas County law enforcement recovery rates. The C-MATT report doesn’t break down arrests by jurisdiction, but reports a total of 246 arrests in 2021 from the 29 agencies included in the report. “Many of those bad guys, we’re catching - we’ve recovered 1,000 grams of drugs, eight weapons, we’ve arrested people on 85 warrants, so it’s hugely successful,” Lyons said. “If someone is not actively apprehended while in possession of that motor vehicle and it gets dumped and then recovered later, it’s really hard to tie a person to that vehicle.” Currently, Castle Rock is the only department in Douglas County to be using the FLOCK system, which was first installed in May 2021. Lyons said he expects the department will formally review the success of FLOCK after the one-year mark.

“It’s certainly not the only piece of the puzzle, but it is timely the fact that we deployed this technology and are seeing double-digit reductions in crime,” he said. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Lone Tree Police Department and Parker Police Department all use license plate readers in patrol cars, though each department said it was evaluating whether to invest in the FLOCK system. Lone Tree currently has two patrol cars equipped with license plate readers, while Parker police just doubled their equipped patrol cars from two to four because of the uptick in thefts, said Josh Hans, the public information officer for the Parker Police Department. “We wanted to be able to increase the coverage and be able to have one out on the road at all times,” Hans said. With the added help of the license plate reading technology, every department noted that sharing information and partnering with other agencies is another crucial piece to successfully investigating car thefts. Douglas County Sheriff Tony Spurlock said a majority of stolen cars are used to commit other crimes, oftentimes in other communities. Hans said cars recovered in Parker frequently have illegal drugs in them. The sheriff’s office estimates about half of the recovered cars are stolen from outside their jurisdic-

tion and cars taken from Douglas County are equally likely to be found elsewhere. “What we see is people steal cars from the Denver metro area and bring them down here to use the car in a crime and then steal a car from here to go back up to the Denevr area,” he said. Castle Rock, Lone Tree and Parker likewise see thefts as a regional problem. Sharing stolen car information among agencies not only increases the number of eyes on the lookout, Spurlock said, but also helps police identify and saturate areas of concern. In Parker, Hans said those areas tend to be in large retail parking lots and fitness centers. “We are increasing our patrols in those lots so we’re able to find the vehicles when the person is in them or in the store and we can get them when they come out,” he said. The last key law enforcement cited in solving thefts is community help. As Castle Rock has seen by the implementation of FLOCK , the sooner officers are made aware of a car being stolen or a suspicious incident, the more likely they are to recover the car or make an arrest. “The community acts as a force multiplier, our eyes and ears when we aren’t there,” Lyons, said. Spurlock encouraged people to report stolen cars right away with the license plate number so information

can be spread to police. Similarly, Lone Tree Police Department Cmr. David Brown said reports of abandoned vehicles and people checking car doors have helped his department’s investigations. “To be successful at solving any crime, you have to have strong partnerships with your community members and business partners,” Brown said. A large majority of stolen cars are crimes of opportunity, Spurlock explained, citing unlocked doors, people leaving keys in the car and leaving the car running as common factors in thefts. “We’ve seen people walk right past a car that they try to open up and it’s locked, they move on to the next one,” he said. Spurlock, Brown and Lyons pointed to lower accountability for property crimes, which allows for repeat offenders, as one factor that may be contributing to the recent rise in car thefts. Parker’s Hans also noted the pandemic and concurrent economic downturn seemed to also be a factor, though Spurlock disagreed. “Our legislature has put Colorado in harm’s way and they have reduced the accountability and responsibility for criminals,” he said. Regardless of the causes though, all of the law enforcement agencies encouraged people to remember to lock their cars and protect their valuables.

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Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 Legals 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. 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

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

claimed by legal owner within 10 days or will be sold by Colorado Brand Board. For information call 719-332-8199 or 303-869-9160. Legal Notice No. 24834 First Publication: May 5, 2022 Last Publication: May 5, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News Public Notice ESTRAY: #1403: One Black Bull, No Brand. Livestock must be claimed by legal owner within 10 days or will be sold by Colorado Brand Board. For information call 719-332-8199 or 303-869-9160. Legal Notice No. 24835 First Publication: May 5, 2022 Last Publication: May 5, 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

Misc. Private Legals

Legal Notice No. 24828 First Publication: April 28, 2022 Last Publication: May 12, 2022 Publisher: Elbert County News

Public Notice ESTRAY: #1401: One Brown Gelding, Star, Strip, Snip, RH Sock. No Brand. One Sorrel & White Paint Mare, Bald Face, LF Sock, LL, LF Sock, LH RH Stockings, No Brand. Livestock must be

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Elbert County Legals 5.5.22 * 1

20 Elbert County News

May 5, 2022

For teens, nothing serves up an addiction like flavored tobacco. Tobacco companies sell kid-friendly flavors, from Cherry Dynamite to Donut to Menthol. Over 2 million kids use e-cigarettes, and 85% use flavors. More than 1 in 4 Colorado high school students are hooked. We’re asking legislators to end the sale of flavored tobacco that the industry has used to addict our kids. Let’s put our kids’ health over Big Tobacco’s profits.

PROTECT OUR KIDS. END THE SALE OF ALL FLAVORED TOBACCO PRODUCTS.

PAID FOR BY TOBACCO-FREE KIDS ACTION FUND