Highlands Ranch Herald 111722

Fewer

owners

assessments

residents argued officials incorrectly estimated the values of homes and other properties. They demanded their taxes be reduced.

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

As home prices in the counties around Denver shot up over the last decade, tens of thousands of

But that trend, practically a rite in some regions, reversed in recent years. Challenges filed with county assessors declined as homeowners apparently acknowledged the rising cost of real estate.

“People today understand that

values have been going up dramatically,” said Scot Kersgaard, the Jefferson County assessor. “Day after day, week after week, it’s been in the newspaper constantly.”

The news is also on websites, like Zillow, Redfin and Trulia, which track the value of homes.

But the last word on the value of

As school measure fails, Kane vows to return next year

Teacher compensation remains an issue

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Douglas County School District’s $60 million mill levy override and $450 million bond ques-

tions failed in the 2022 election.

The mill levy override would have gone toward making staff compensation more competitive, with the average teacher to see a 9% salary increase. The bond money would have been used to build three new elementary schools, on top of maintaining and improving other district buildings.

At the Invest in DCSD watch party on Nov. 8 in Highlands Ranch, Superintendent Erin Kane said the results were not what she was hoping for, but was optimistic about the support shown by voters.

“I’m actually feeling good because we were at 39% (approval

Democrat Bob Marshall looks to unseat Kurt Hu man

Hopeful for HD43 upset

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Six days after the 2022 midterms, Democrat Bob Marshall maintains his lead in the race for Colorado House District 43 against incumbent Republican Kurt Huffman.

After Nov. 8, the final day to cast ballots, Douglas County has eight days to finish counting all ballots. As of press time, Marshal held a slim lead over Huffman with 50.35% of the vote. Huffman was at 49.65%.

Colorado law requires a recount if there is a less than 0.5% difference between candidate’s votes.

District 43 covers all of Highlands Ranch.

In a statement posted the morning of Nov. 9 on Facebook, Huffman said the race was too close to call. The Huffman campaign reiterated that message on Nov. 10 in a statement sent to Colorado Community Media.

“We are closely monitoring incoming numbers from the clerk’s office,” Holly Horn, campaign general consultant, said. “To say this race is anything but too close to call would be premature.”

Meanwhile, Marshall celebrated his win on Election Night when initial results showed him in the lead.

Speaking to Colorado Community Media on election night, Marshall said he was elated but wasn’t surprised by the results.

“I was making headway any time I talked to someone,” Marshall said. “I was meshing very well with the community.”

Marshall ran on a campaign of supporting public safety, public education and environment, as well as being a pro-choice candidate and a supporter of gun control.

Huffman’s campaign focused on opposing state mandates, addressing

Briefly

Celebrate the holidays at the Highlands Ranch Mansion Dec. 3 Ring in the holiday season at the historic Highlands Ranch Mansion on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Santa will arrive at the Mansion on a fire truck at 10:15 a.m. and will be on site visiting with guests the duration of the event.

The Holiday Celebration is free and open to the public. All ages will enjoy music, gift vendors, face painting, horse-drawn hayrides, reindeer games and more.

Self-guided tours of the Mansion, a gingerbread-themed scavenger hunt and a visit with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office mounted patrol will be highlights of the day. Most activities are outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather. The Simply Pizza food truck and the Knights of Columbus will be selling food and beverages.

Local elementary school choirs and music schools will be performing throughout the day and Douglas County Libraries will be hosting two story times.

Holiday Craft Show at Douglas County Fairgrounds Nov. 26 and 27

For a fourth year, Colorado Community Media is proud to produce the Holiday Craft Show and Mini-Market at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. While still recovering from the pandemic in 2021, the show had about 60 vendors. The 2022 show, to be held on Saturday, Nov. 26 and Sunday, Nov. 27 is completely different, showing the region is ready for family events. The show has booked more than 100 vendors who are ready to sale homemade crafts, unique holiday gifts, food and more.

As an added plus in the 2022 show, Santa Claus will be visiting with local youth between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 26.

Admission to the annual event is free.

Estate Planning for the Holidays!

It’s that time of year where most of us will wind down by spending time with loved ones, sipping hot cocoa, and overeating until the point of exhaustion. All of this before we ring in the New Year! The average American will travel on average 214 miles for Thanksgiving, and 275 miles for Christmas. With the holidays quickly approaching, make sure your affairs are in order!

All that long distance travels means that the risk of any accident or injury go up tremendously. That’s why we at Davis Schilken P.C., want you to be sure that your family is taken care of in the event of tragedy. Its important to remember that our Estate Plans will ALWAYS change. With that in mind, there is almost no better time to make sure your changes are made than before the holidays. Things you might consider are:

• Changes in Distribution Patterns

• Changes to your Will

• Changes to your Trust

• Updated Powers of Attorney

•

• Accurate HIPAA Authorizations

Airtight Living Wills

•

Proper Asset Funding

It’s never too early to review your plans, please don’t wait until it’s too late. Whatever your goals are, let the Davis Schilken, PC team help you achieve them! It’s important to remember that setting up an effective Estate Plan is one of the only ways to ensure that you and your loved ones are taken care of were something to happen to you or your family.

With a properly established and funded Estate Plan, we can ensure that you have the ability to give what you want, to whom you want, when you want, the way you want. During that process we can help you save money on every court cost, legal fee, professional fee, and tax fee legally possible.

Estate planning is never about how much you have, but how much you care about what you have. Contact the Davis Schilken, PC team with any of your Estate Planning needs (303)6709855. We offer no obligation in person or virtual meetings. We make estate planning simple!

Visit our comprehensive website for more tools www.dslawcolorado.com

According to a Nov. 9 Douglas County social media post, the commissioners recently approved invested $2.2 million in the county’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the Arapahoe

ELECTION

FROM PAGE 1

crime and supporting school choice. Huffman also opposes a majority of gun control legislation, with the exception of background check requirements, and considers himself pro-life.

Huffman was appointed to the House District 43 seat in June when

Community College talent development training, programming and services expansion at the Douglas County School District’s Legally Innovation Campus in Lone Tree.

Photo source: Douglas County Facebook page

former Rep. Kevin Van Winkle, Republican, was appointed to the open Senate District 30 seat following Sen. Chris Holbert’s retirement in May.

Douglas County spokesperson Wendy Holmes said the county will submit the final count and report the complete results to the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office no later than nine days after the election. Results are then certified 22 days after the election.

Davis Schilken, PC – Let our deep experience meet your heartfelt goals!

County invests in Arapahoe Community College

Voters approve free school meals program

BY ERICA BREUNLIN THE COLORADO SUN

Colorado public school students will have access to free school meals after voters approved Proposition FF on Nov. 8, slashing tax breaks for households that earn more than $300,000 in federal adjusted gross income starting in tax year 2023 to help pay for a new school meals program.

The measure passed with more than 55% of voters approving it.

The success of the measure means that all kids in public schools, no matter their family’s income, will be able to eat free school breakfasts and lunches, reflecting the critical role schools play in helping students facing food insecurity. The state’s new school meals program — the Healthy School Meals for All program — will take the place of a federal initiative that provided free meals to all kids through the first two years of the pandemic.

“This is a win for our fight against childhood hunger,” said Ashley Wheeland, director of public policy for Hunger Free Colorado, a nonprofit that helps people struggling with hunger. “Many more children that need food will now have access to it with their learning, and this is something

that we’ve needed for a long time.”

The demand for food assistance swelled during the pandemic, with 68,000 more Colorado kids participating in school lunch programs supported by federal funds, said Wheeland, whose organization has supported the ballot measure since

it was first referred by Democrats in the Colorado legislature this year through the passage of House Bill 1414. This school year, with the federal initiative no longer in place, school meals are reaching fewer students, she said.

Proposition FF will limit the amount that households earning more than $300,000 can claim in state income tax deductions to cover many of the costs of the new school meals program. It will also require school meal providers to take advantage of federal reimbursements to help ease program costs for the state.

The restriction will impact a taxpayer’s standard deduction or itemized deductions, which include charitable contributions, state and local taxes and mortgage interest.

Taxpayers who make more than $300,000 will be able to deduct no more than $12,000 for single filers and no more than $16,000 for joint filers. Currently, taxpayers who earn more than $400,000 can claim a maximum of $60,000 in state income tax deductions for a joint filer and a maximum of $30,000 for a single filer, caps that were passed under House Bill 1311. Taxpayers whose income is between $300,000 and $400,000 are not limited in how much they can deduct from their state taxable income.

Proposition FF will increase income tax revenue in the state by an estimated $100.7 million during the first full year of the tax change, fiscal year 2023-24, which begins on July 1, 2023.

School meal providers will be reimbursed for providing meals to all kids, and any school meal provider can benefit, whether they serve one or more school districts or charter schools. Currently, 183 school meal providers serve kids throughout the state and cover the costs of providing free and reduced-price lunches with state and federal funds and by charging families whose income exceeds federal pov-

erty levels. Students might qualify for free or reduced-price meals, depending on their household income, but Colorado students who are eligible for reduced-price meals get free meals instead because the state funds their portion of the meal cost.

Denver resident Noah Hayden, 25, voted in favor of Proposition FF so that all students have enough to eat while trying to learn.

Hayden, an unaffiliated voter, teaches social studies at a charter school in Broomfield, and while most of his students come from families who can afford meals, he knows not all kids have the same resources.

“I just think it’s better that every kid is always ensured a lunch throughout the day,” Hayden said after voting at ReelWorks Denver Tuesday evening.

Joey Chester, 30, an unaffiliated voter from Westminster, came to the polls with at least one thing in mind: school lunches.

Chester, who grew up in Aurora, voted “yes” on Proposition FF. He said he sees hope in the proposition.

“When I grew up, my mom gave us 40 bucks a month for school lunches, and I got lazy and would just burn it out and then have to make my own lunch finally for the rest of the year. I knew kids that didn’t always get meals, and I know things have gotten worse,” Chester said.

He added: “I hope it’s going to pass and the people that it’s going to tax are not going to be whiny about it.”

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.

Colorado public school students will have access to free school meals due to the passage of Proposition FF.

PHOTO BY DEB HURLEY BROBST

Plan will reduce tax breaks for wealthy

Colorado is second state to legalize ‘magic mushrooms’

Measure passed by thin margin

BY JENNIFER BROWN THE COLORADO SUN

Ten years after legalizing the use and sale of marijuana, Colorado became only the second state in the U.S. to legalize the use of psilocybin mushrooms.

The ballot measure, Proposition 122, squeaked across the finish line as ballots were tallied the day after Election Day, receiving 51% of the vote.

Proponents called it a “truly historic moment.”

“Colorado voters saw the benefit of regulated access to natural medicines, including psilocybin, so people with PTSD, terminal illness, depression, anxiety and other mental health issues can heal,” coproponents, Kevin Matthews and Veronica Lightening Horse Perez said in emailed statement Wednesday evening.

Natural Medicine Colorado, which got Proposition 122 on the ballot, spent nearly $4.5 million to promote the measure. In contrast, the primary opposition, Protect Colorado’s Kids, raised about $51,000.

The measure will allow people 21 and older to grow and share

psychedelic mushrooms, as well as create state-regulated centers where people could make appointments to consume psilocybin, the hallucination-inducing compound derived from psychedelic mushrooms. It calls for licensed “healing centers” to give clients mushrooms in a supervised setting, but — unlike marijuana — does not include an option for retail sales.

Once again, Colorado passed a drug measure that’s illegal under federal law. Psychedelic mushrooms became illegal in the U.S. in 1970 under the Controlled Substances Act. Even with Proposition 122’s passage, psilocybin remains federally classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance, like heroin, for which there is no current medical use.

Colorado became the first to legalize marijuana a decade ago, and is second only to Oregon in legalizing psilocybin.

Luke Niforatos, chairman of Protect Colorado’s Kids, said he was concerned as a parent and for Colorado’s public health.

“We now need to have a very frank and public conversation about who is in charge of medicine,” he said. “This is now the second time our state has rejected the FDA process.”

Niforatos, who is also executive

MUSHROOMS, P31

SCHOOLS

FROM PAGE 1

rating with voters) in May and in this economy, we moved all the way to 48%,” Kane said of the mill levy override that would have increased teacher pay.

Kane said the failing funding questions don’t put the district in dire financial straights, but it does keep the district from being competitive on pay and meeting growth demands for at least the next year.

Kane said the district will need to be able to make staff compensation more competitive and build new schools, so she imagines bond and mill levy override questions will be on the ballot again next year.

“I’m going to do everything I can to take care of our staff, to take care of our people and get us through the next 12 months while we talk to voters,” Kane

said. “This is only the beginning.”

Kane also thanked Christa Gilstrap, who co-founded Invest in DSCD, the political issue committee that supported the bond and mill levy override, and all of the parents, staff and individuals who volunteered to campaign for the funding questions.

Douglas County School Board member Mike Peterson said the school board will debrief about the election at the board’s Nov. 30 retreat to consider next steps, particularly when it comes to the district’s need for new schools in the growing neighborhoods of Sterling Ranch, Crystal Valley and the Canyons.

“We will look at coming back for another bond because we cannot go through what we went through the years of 2006 to 2018, going 12 years without passing a bond,” Peterson said.

The last time voters approved a bond for Douglas County schools was in 2018.

SEE

those homes, as far as the government is concerned, belongs to Kersgaard’s office. His office determines how much homeowners will owe government entities in taxes.

For years, rises in those taxes have led to lines at county offices and stacks of filings as property owners submit protests against assessors’ valuations.

In 2013, Jefferson County saw about 5,700 protests. That number reached about 11,200 in 2017, but fell to 7,200 in 2021.

Acceptance of the realities of rising prices is a theory as to why protests are declining. Kersgaard said local policies to make more information accessible could have played a role.

“In Jeffco, we’ve done things that have been designed frankly to reduce (protests),” Kersgaard said.

But the trend seen in Jefferson County is mirrored in the other counties surrounding Denver, according to annual reports from the state Division of Property Taxation.

In Adams County, there were about 2,600 protests in 2013, 11,200 in 2017 and 6,000 in 2021.

In Arapahoe County, there were about 4,800 protests in 2013, 9,200 in 2019 and 4,700 in 2021.

In Douglas County, there were about 5,200 protests in 2013, 7,200 in 2019 and 4,700 in 2021.

It is unclear exactly what is driving recent declines in protests.

The idea that property owners are more resigned to the realities of the

real estate market is a common one.

“The real estate market is on fire,” said Corbin Sakdol, a former Arapahoe County assessor and executive director of the Colorado Assessors’ Association.

‘Agnostic about taxes’

Another factor could be approach.

Kersgaard said when he came into office, he told his staff not to be lenient with protests.

“What I tell them is if we get the value right, defend the (protest),” Kersgaard said. “Don’t just give them something so they go away. If we’re wrong, grant it.”

The staff was “delighted that I had their back,”he added.

Kersgaard estimates that around 3%-5% of people file appeals in any given year. If an assessor’s office grants an appeal that isn’t justified, “then you’re punishing the other 95% of people who didn’t file appeals.”

A slightly higher share of the tax burden would fall on those who didn’t get a break in taxes, he added.

Kersgaard is a Democrat, a party that’s often accused by Republicans of being pro-taxation. But he said party politics don’t drive his work.

“I tell people when I’m campaigning, ‘Yes. I’m a Democrat, but when I walk into the office I become a technocrat,’” Kersgaard said.

He said the process is intricate.

Local bodies, such as school districts, are able to establish tax rates, but assessors must determine the fair values of the properties that rates are applied to.

“I’m totally agnostic about taxes,” he said.

Sakdol, the former Arapahoe

Candlelight Walk

County assessor, served as a Republican. He thinks Democrats and Republicans tend to handle assessment protests the same way.

“My experience with assessors across the state of Colorado, they’re most interested in making sure the value is correct,” Sakdol said.

Sakdol’s successor, PK Kaiser, a Democrat who took office in 2019, also said politics don’t drive assessments.

“We look at the protest and see what information is provided and reject (or) adjust the values based on the information provided,” said Kaiser, who was on track to win reelection by a large margin as of Nov. 10.

Gary Salter, a 60-year-old homeowner in unincorporated Jefferson County south of Lakewood, bought his home in 1999. He remembers filing six or seven protests since the early 2000s.

“They lowered (the value) every single time,” said Salter, who has noticed no differences across assessors.

New tech may help understanding

During Kersgaard’s term, the Jefferson assessor office updated its website so people can view a map that shows recent property sales in their neighborhoods and see how they compare to their own houses. His office made the upgrade around early 2021.

Kersgaard guessed that type of technology may be a reason why some Denver metro counties have seen protests decline.

“People can look at their house and look at the other houses that are sold in their neighborhood and go, ‘Wow, we’re not actually overvalued,’” Kersgaard said.

Kaiser’s office in Arapahoe also created a map online so people can see how assessed property values have changed near where they live or in other areas.

But given that the decline in protests has occurred in so many counties, “some of it is just driven by the market” and that people today may better understand that home prices have been rising dramatically, Kersgaard said.

Since the start of 2010 — when the median single-family home price in metro Denver was about $200,000 — the median price has roughly tripled, according to a report by the Colorado Association of Realtors based on data as of this August. Statewide, it had tripled as well, according to the association.

Are politics at play?

Some Jefferson County protests arise simply because people are unhappy that their taxes are so high, said Kersgaard, who took office in 2019. (He was also on track to win reelection by a large margin as of Nov. 10.)

The public often doesn’t understand the assessor doesn’t decide tax rates.

The assessor’s job is to establish accurate values of all properties — residential, commercial, agricultural, vacant land and more — in his or her county, a process meant to ensure that the amount of taxes property owners pay is fair and equitable.

Property taxes partly fund county governments, but they also fund school districts, fire and library districts, other local entities, and cities and towns.

Unless residents “go to their fire district meeting and their school board meeting and their county commissioners, they really don’t have any recourse,” Kersgaard said.

Another confusing wrinkle: Assessors’ offices do their work based on the value of properties as of June 30 of the prior year — they don’t report those values until the following May.

So the assessed value a homeowner receives isn’t based on the property’s current value, Sakdol said.

Assessor’s offices look at sale prices of homes in the same area to determine the value for a given property, Sakdol said.

Protests could swing back up

Rising home prices amid the economic disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic could be informing homeowners about market trends, Kersgaard said.

“They’ll see it’s not just the assessor’s office that says their value is going up,” Kersgaard said.

Kersgaard acknowledges the impact of higher assessed values can hit some people hard, like retirees on fixed incomes.

And while home prices might see a slowdown, increases from the assessors office may still be on the upswing. That’s because valuations from assessors are based on data that lags roughly by a year, Sakdol said.

“They’re looking at what was the value of your property as of June 30, 2022,” Sakdol said. “However, they don’t report those values until May 2023.”

That means assessors could be busy next year as homeowners attempt to control those costs through protests.

A sign reads “home for sale” in the south Denver metro area. FILE PHOTO BY DAVID GILBERT

Weekly wins sheri race, Davis to be new clerk

BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Along with state and municipal races, several county races were on the ballot for Douglas County voters. These races included selecting a new sheriff and a new clerk and recorder for the county.

While Arapahoe County races were decided along party lines for Democrats, in Douglas County races were handed to Republicans.

As early votes were tallied, it became clear quickly that Republican Darren Weekly would be elected as the county’s new sheriff. Weekly quickly declared victory.

In the clerk and recorder contest, Republican Sheri Davis also handily defeated her Democratic opponent.

Sheri ’s race

In winning the general election, Weekly said, “I’m honored to be the next sheriff of Douglas County. I’m going to serve with honor and integrity and I look forward to taking the organization to the next level.”

Weekly was endorsed by current Sheriff Tony Spurlock. Spurlock reached his term limit after two consecutive four-year terms, first elected in 2015 and reelected in 2018.

In the primary elections, Weekly beat out three other Republican party candidates with 34.48% of votes. Just behind him was John Anderson with 33.41% of votes.

Other candidates in the primary race included Holly Kluth, who is currenlty suing Spurlock, with 18.06% and Douglas County Commissioner Lora Thomas

with 14.06%.

Weekly, the current investigations division commander at the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, said his priorities include putting more patrol deputies on the street, addressing the rising homeless population in the county, maintaining a relationship with the school district to ensure school safety, and increasing resources for responding to mental health crisis calls, according to his campaign website.

Clerk and recorder

A new face will also be in the clerk’s office as Davis defeated Democrat Karen Jefferson.

Davis will take over for Merlin Klotz who reached his term limit after two consecutive four-year terms.

Thelma Grimes contributed to this story.

Darren Weekly Sheri Davis

Laydon looks to second term with optimism

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.

After being elected to a second term, Abe Laydon, who represents District 1 on the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, said there is plenty of work to do in a variety of areas from wildfire mitigation to addressing homelessness and affordable housing.

It was no surprise that Laydon won in the heavily favored Republican county. Laydon defeated Democrat Kari Solberg with about 57% of the vote.

In congratulating Laydon for his victory, Solberg said she hopes he and fellow commissioners Lora Thomas and George Teal will remain focused on what is best for Douglas County both now and long term.

“I am humbled and honored to have been on the ballot for Douglas County commissioner and while I didn’t get the ultimate results I had hoped for, I am so encouraged by the results across the county,” Solberg said. “Our voter registration numbers indicate we are a purple county, and it will not be long before our election results really show that. I look forward to that day as it will be the beginning of us all working together for what’s in the best interest of all of Douglas County.”

Wildfire prevention

In the post-election interview, Laydon said wildfire prevention is on the top of his list of priorities.

Wildfire mitigation, prevention and management became a major concern for counties across the state after last year when the Marshall Fire devastated part of Boulder County, becoming the most destructive fire in Colorado history.

Laydon said commissioners have spent a lot of time talking about how to take a community approach to wildfire protection and talk and identify true solutions.

In October, the county took a big step by creating an all-hands-ondeck simulation. The simulation presented the scenario just like what happened in the Marshall Fire. Fire departments across the county,

police departments and emergency response teams gathered to test how prepared Douglas County currently is to handle a fire breaking out.

“Douglas County has a lot of square footage and properties,” Laydon said. “This was the largest emergency exercise in the history of the county.”

In a county where there is an average of 24 new residents a day, Laydon said these simulations help in addressing technology blips and correcting issues ahead of the possibility of the real thing.

Moving forward, Laydon said getting more residents signed up for CodeRED, an emergency notification app, and continuing to develop strong aerial support for wildfires is going to help.

Coming out

In an election where he was favored to win in a heavily conservative county, Laydon took many by surprise in the month leading up to Election Day when he came out on Twitter.

On National Coming Out Day, Laydon said he is a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

Laydon’s Oct. 11 statement said he identifies as an aesthete, which he defines as appreciating and being drawn to “internal and external beauty in humans irrespective of gender.”

In the month after his announcement, Laydon said he is moved by the response and support he received. From Gov. Jared Polis taking time to voice support to emails thanking him, a choked-up Laydon said he never imagined the impact the announcement would have.

“I was pleasantly surprised, humbled and encouraged,” he said. “What was most meaningful was the private citizens sharing their stories. It was worth it after I heard all the support and stories.”

His timing of the announcement was questioned, but Laydon said there was no grand plan other than a teenager participating in Youth Congress making him want to speak up.

The teenager talked about having to wear a mask to hide his true self in the effort to be more accepted by his peers.

Laydon said the teenager made him want to make sure his constituents were “voting for the real me.”

“I would rather lose than allow people to vote for a fake me. People know me and know how I vote,” he said. “Really, no one should have to talk about their private life in public.”

Homeless initiatives

The increasing homeless population is also on the commission’s radar, Laydon said. As homelessness

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has increased in Denver, metro cities such as Castle Rock are starting to see the problem grow.

Laydon said he will continue to work on the Douglas County Homeless Initiative to find solutions.

Recently, commissioners supported a new plan to encourage residents to stop giving money and food to panhandlers on the roads. Instead, the county is encouraging people to give the donations to the Douglas County Community Foundation.

The foundation will then distribute the funds to local nonprofits helping homeless people in Douglas County.

“Sometimes citizens can be a victim of their own compassion by giving donations to panhandlers at busy intersections,” Laydon said.

Commission camaraderie

An issue facing the three-member board of commissioners for the last two years is working together. Often Teal and Laydon have been at odds with Thomas, whose term continues through 2024.

The board recently passed a personal conduct policy aimed at requiring the board to treat each other with respect, civility and handle disagreements with professionalism.

Laydon said he believes the board can set aside differences and work toward what is best for Douglas County.

Commissioner talks about priorities, coming out

‘I would rather lose than allow people to vote for a fake me. People know me and know how I vote. Really, no one should have to talk about their private life in public.’

Abe Laydon, Douglas County Commissioner

Coloradans vote to cut income taxes, limit liquor chains

BY MARK HARDEN ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

Coloradans gave themselves a tax break in the Nov. 8 election, while also blocking a proposal to let liquorstore operators add more locations.

Voters also agreed to raise taxes on high-income Coloradans to support free school meals, refused to relax rules for charity bingo games and raffles, and expanded property tax exemptions for the surviving spouses of fallen military service members.

By nearly a 2-1 margin, Colorado voters approved Proposition 121, reducing the state income tax rate from 4.55% to 4.4%. The measure is projected to reduce state tax revenue by $412.6 million, a cut of about 2.4% to the state’s general fund, while saving the average Colorado taxpayer $119 in fiscal-year 2023-24.

And nearly two-thirds of voters opposed Proposition 124, which would have let retail liquor chains grow from a limit of three stores statewide now to a maximum of eight, and then to 13 in 2027, 20 in 2032 and an unlimited number in 2037. Under existing law, liquor chains will be allowed a fourstore maximum in 2027 but not more.

The Colorado Licensed Beverage Association, representing independent liquor stores,had saidProp 124 would let big chains drive its members out of business.

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.

Donations not accepted.

It is shocking to see what people dump into our streams and open space. Not only is this unattractive along our natural stream corridors, this is a direct threat to fish, wildlife, recreation and our drinking water supplies. If you have something that you no longer want, consider donating it! Many charitable organizations rely on donations of unwanted items. Otherwise, please coordinate with your trash collector to dispose of unwanted items properly.

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

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

Make the right choice. Drop your unwanted items at a charitable organization, not along the stream bank.

Jazz Singh, owner of Pecos Liquors, is a well-known liquor store owner in Westminster.

PHOTO BY LUKE ZARZECKI

Douglas County offices will be closed Thursday, Nov. 24 and Friday, Nov. 25 in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. Many county services are available at DoItOnlineDouglas.com

Need help with home heating costs?

Eligible low-income households in Douglas County may apply for energy assistance through the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) now through April 30. For more information or an application, please visit douglas.co.us and search for LEAP or email LEAPHELP@discovermygoodwill.org

Need flood zone information?

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

Children facing early, intense respiratory virus season

Health o cials concerned

BY JENNIFER BROWN THE COLORADO SUN

Children’s Hospital for a news conference. The number of available pediatric beds has hovered between zero and 5 the last several weeks, instead of the typical average of 22 open beds.

Whether you’re a young person looking for career guidance, have recently been separated from a job or are considering a new career path, Arapahoe/Douglas Works! provides a variety of no-cost employment assistance services. For more information and to get started visit, adworks.org

Watch the 2022 State of the County

The State of the County was held on Nov. 16 and recognized this year’s achievements through remarkable partnerships. Also announced and recognized were the recipients of the County’s $68.2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Watch at douglas.co.us/state-of-the-county

An alarming number of Colorado children with the respiratory virus called RSV are filling emergency rooms and intensive care beds as the state experiences an “early and intense” start to the flu season, state health officials and Children’s Hospital Colorado warned.

“It’s truly like nothing we’ve ever seen before at Children’s Hospital Colorado,” said Dr. Kevin Carney, a pediatric emergency physician and Children’s associate chief medical officer.

The hospital’s in-patient and ICU beds across the state are operating at or above maximum capacity, and emergency room and urgent care visits for respiratory illness are 30% higher than the busiest days of a normal flu season, which typically runs January through March.

Children’s is now postponing surgeries and other procedures in order to have the staff and space to treat children with RSV, the flu and COVID-19, he said.

Children’s Hospital and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment held the news conference to warn parents and urge vaccinations after watching levels, especially for RSV, spike in recent weeks.

“What’s different this year is how early and severe this reference respiratory season has been for the children in our community,” Carney said. “Our emergency departments are seeing a record volume of patients.”

While RSV, which stands for respiratory syncytial virus, causes mild symptoms in most people, it can cause severe illness or even death in young children and older adults. Of the 554 people who have been hospitalized in the Denver area in the last few weeks, 95% were children. Health officials have counted 144 outbreaks statewide at schools and child care centers.

Learn more at douglas.co.us and search for Citizen Snow Removal Responsibilities.

Statewide, there’s a shortage of available pediatric intensive care beds, according to state health department officials who joined

Infants and children under age 2 are most at risk for dangerous cases of RSV, as are people over age 65 or with lung issues. Colorado is seeing “unprecedented levels” of

CO

Health o cials expect an early, long season for flus and respiratory viruses for kids.

SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE

How sober curiosity can turn into a lifestyle change

Movement has grown after influential book

BY DANA KNOWLES ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

Sydney Golden battled various unknown health issues for 20 years; everything from allergies, headaches, bloating, joint pain, fatigue, depression and anxiety. Visits to medical specialists didn’t give her any concrete answers and she was repeatedly told nothing was wrong with her.

“I would walk around as a healthy-looking person, but I felt horrible,” Golden said.

Even though Golden was never a heavy drinker, she decided to make a lifestyle change and stop consuming alcohol four years ago, and the results were surprising. Golden emphasizes that even when she would have only one or two drinks, her body always felt it the next day, but not anymore.

“When I don’t drink, there’s no brain fog, there’s no lethargy, there’s no fatigue. There’s a totally different feeling,” she added, saying that her mood immediately improved. “I have motivation, I have no aches, I have no pains in my body. I have no more bloating, no more stomach issues. It’s just better for me.”

Caitlin Opland is a licensed clinical social worker who works for Thriveworks, a mental health company. Opland says over the last few months, she has been working with more and more clients who are on a similar journey of wanting to cut out alcohol, not because of a problem, but because they want explore a different way of living.

“I’ve had many clients come to me and say, ‘I don’t think it’s a problem, but …,’” she explained, adding that she typically asks clients what’s infl uencing their curiosity about sobriety and the possibility of no longer drinking. “Many people hesitate because they don’t want to have to label themselves as an alcoholic, but they still want to make a lifestyle change.”

The “Sober Curious” movement has grown in recent years after author Ruby Warrington published the book called “Sober Curious” in late 2018. A CivicScience survey published last month, shows a greater percent-

age of people report they are curious about living a sober lifestyle, from 12% in 2020 to 19% this year.

Opland feels that educating her clients about what’s considered too much alcohol according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA, helps people make more informed decisions.

“The guide for healthy drinking limitsfor women is eight drinks a week and for men it is 15,” she added, saying that most people are surprised when she tells them. “That educational piece actually tips them over from being curious to actually taking that fi rst step.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, also says that even minimal amounts of alcohol of any kind increase a person’s risk for several types of cancer. “The benefi ts [of being alcohol-free] are it’s better for your kidneys, your liver, your skin. You’ll feel better, but you’ll also sleep better and eat better,” said Opland.

Opland added that one of the biggest barriers to people exploring an alcohol-free lifestyle is peer pressure from society itself.

“The media infl uences us, families infl uence us, holidays coming up infl uence us, work infl uences us,” Opland said.

Both Golden and Opland say the best advice they can give anyone who might be sober-curious is to start by setting boundaries.

“You can have a mocktail or a club soda,” said Golden. “It looks like a drink, in case you’re not ready to tell people you don’t want to drink anymore.”

“Is it a last family gathering? Is it Grandpa’s last visit? Do you actually want to go? Is it a champagne toast at a wedding where you can just put Sprite in the glass?” Opland added, explaining that she encourages her clients to ask themselves these types of questions. “Are there alterations to drinks so you can still participate? Sometimes the temptation is too big, and that’s okay.”

This story is from Rocky Mountain PBS, a nonprofi t 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.

Our mission is to lower energy costs and provide the healthiest quality air possible. For anyone, business or residential, we will increase e ciency of your system by using the very latest techniques, the latest technologies and top of the line products.

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EDITOR’S COLUMN

Now, it’s time to overanalyze why the results are what they are. In Douglas County, results are not too big of a shock, but is there starting to be a bit of a blue ripple in Highlands Ranch? After all, as current counts stand, Democrat Bob Marshall looks to be heading to represent District 43 in the state House of Representatives.

he elections are over. I may have shed a little tear of happiness knowing the ads on television, in print and invading my mailbox will now stop.Is a Democratic invasion coming? Or, is it just a blip and all order will be restored in 2024?

In Littleton, will housing become a struggle with every new proposal? Judging by the results, tensions are high, and they may remain so in the near future.

Thelma Grimes

Throughout each county and community, getting new taxes approved surely looks to be a tough sell at every level. Schools do not just get a yes vote anymore. Lodging taxes even failed in Centennial.

In looking at local, metro races, there is one message that is clear — people want open space and will pass whatever you ask them to in order to preserve it.

Now, looking beyond our metro communities, I am fascinated by the impact unaffiliated voters are starting to have on elections in Colorado and nationwide. I look at unaffiliated voters as those who no longer want to be affiliated with either party.

As an unaffiliated voter myself, I am disgusted with both parties and will not align with either one. I originally switched years ago because I am a journalist who started covering politics. However, I am so glad I did change years ago because I love being in the middle.

Looking at Colorado election numbers provided by the Secretary of State’s Office, of the more than 3.8 million registered voters in the state, just over 45% of them are unaffiliated.

According to a Colorado Sun report in July, unaffiliated voters had a big impact on primary election outcomes. According to the article, more than 231,000 unaffiliated voters cast Republican primary ballots this year, about 100,000 more than chose to vote in the GOP primary in 2020 and 130,000 more than voted in the 2018 GOP primary.

The strategy in the primary was obvious – get out the candidates who are over-the-top. Tina Peters is a great example. The primary results paved the way for Pam Anderson, who was sensible and a good candidate to run for the state’s election office.

According to numbers from the general election, 2.4 million Colorado residents cast ballots in the recent election. Of those, 983,477 are unaffiliated, 742,429 are Democrat and 687,433 are Republican.

As future elections come into view, strategists are no longer going to be able to just cater to one side or the other. If Colorado continues to follow the path of 2022, the unaffiliated voter is going to require reason, solutions, and better engagement from candidates.

I hope the trends continue at the national level because at some point the two-party bickering and arguing has to stop. That also means maybe more unaffiliated candidates may have a chance in running for office.

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

LINDA

lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com MICHAEL

Outnumbered but never out of the game

T

Tree,

Three other organizations were also invited in to vie for the opportunity to possibly provide services to the prospective client. All three were well-established consulting companies and were coming to the table with decades of experience and proven track records of success. There was not much risk in choosing any of these three companies.

As the vetting process went on, the founders of the tiny startup still believed that they could absolutely provide the highest levels of service for the prospective client and were already starting to assemble a bench of potential independent contractors they would need should they be awarded the business. They discussed the competition every week as the process went on, and they knew they were outnumbered and maybe even seen as outmatched because of the strong reputations of the three competitors.

Outnumbered and maybe outmatched, yet they were never out of the game.

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BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

FRANKS Production Manager efranks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

hey were a new and small startup consulting company. Having barely opened the doors of the business, they identified an opportunity where their specialized expertise could help find and deliver the solutions that a very large corporate prospect was looking for. Although they were new and small, their reputation in the industry was solid, and they were invited to compete for the business.When the prospect had made the announcement that they had narrowed the field down to two, the small startup was not shocked to find themselves in the final two. They truly believed that they could provide the client with exceptional service and work with them to deliver the desired results. Their final competitor was shocked that the prospect had selected the startup, and they became overconfident that they would win. This was a mistake.

In the final discovery, due diligence and sales presentations, the team from the startup showed up better prepared and presented comprehensive performance solutions that included a practical and tactical plan that made sense. The larger, more established, and wellknown and respected consulting company came in with overengineered and complicated plans, and plans that included very little in the way of tactical execution.

At the end of the process the prospective client awarded the business to the new and small startup because they felt like they had demonstrated that they had the client’s best interest at heart. Although they were new and small, they trusted them enough to assemble a team that could meet all expectations and deliverables. Outnumbered, perceived to be outmatched, but never out of the game.

When the executive team of this startup shared their reasons from why and how they won, I was so fired up and happy for them. I mean who doesn’t love a great underdog victory story? It had me reflecting on some of the situations where I found myself in the under-

SEE

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Email letters to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Deadline Wed. for the following week’s paper.

To opt in or out of delivery please email us at circulation@ coloradocommunitymedia.com

NORTON,

Highlands Ranch Herald

A legal newspaper of general circulation in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, the Herald is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media, 9233 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree, CO 80124.

The analysis begins

Choosing benefits — planning for 2023

November is open enrollment season. This could be for your employer, Medicare or the Affordable Care Act Exchange. But it is not just health insurance you need to consider. Employees may also have options for life and disability insurance as well as retirement plan contributions.

There is a lot to consider when planning for the next full year. It helps to have your financial plan in order so you know how to budget for the premium costs, what types of insurance you need and how you are tracking on your retirement goals.

FINANCIAL STRATEGIES

be for the year to determine if this is better than a lowerdeductible major medical plan.

Major medical plans may also be offered in certain networks of providers. You should determine how many specialists you may need and if you will be using services that are considered out of network. In this case, the coinsurance is smaller, and the deductible may be higher.

included with your medical coverage. Then you may have the option to pay extra for additional life insurance on yourself, your spouse and your children. Consider that this insurance stays with the employer when you leave but also may not require underwriting or insurability. It is usually less expensive because it is group insurance rather than individual. Refer to your financial plan to determine how much permanent insurance you need and get your own policy for that amount. Consider using the employer plan for the short-term needs.

to $6,500, but the catch-up remains at $1,000.

The income phase-out range for taxpayers making IRA contributions to either a deductible IRA or a Roth also increased. Check with your advisor or IRS.gov to plan for your 2023 tax strategies. Couples earning less than $73,000 may be eligible for the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit.

Health insurance is usually the first thing we tackle in signing up for benefits. Your employer may also offer a health savings account or HSA. You will want to learn about using pre-tax dollars to help fund future medical costs. This is always associated with a high-deductible insurance plan. Consider what you expect your out-of-pocket medical costs to

Disability insurance premiums may be offered as pre-tax or posttax. It is nice to get the premium paid with pre-tax dollars but keep in mind the benefits then will be taxable.

ance plan. Consider what you expect

NORTON

FROM PAGE 12

dog’s seat, and where I may have lost a little bit of confidence myself.

In life, there are times where we all get to feeling a bit outnumbered and outmatched, so much so that we become uninspired or demotivated, believing we may have already lost. When this happens it can set us back or even completely derail us from completing something or competing for something that we were once very passionate about. What we should always remember is that it doesn’t matter if they seem bigger, better, faster or stronger than we are. No, what matters is how we show up and the size of our heart,

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Unhappy with status quo

A couple of papers back I read a letter from a person who thought that Joe Biden was doing a good job as president. At first I thought I was reading the Denver Post but his analogy of losing only 13 service personnel was acceptable. He might want to compare that to the four years before.

Last Friday, I called Xcel Energy and asked why heating oil was going up 50%. She immediately

ABOUT LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Colorado Community Media welcomes letters to the editor. Please note the following rules:

• Email your letter to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com. Do not send via postal mail. Put the words “letter to the editor” in the email subject line.

• Submit your letter by 5 p.m. on Wednesday in order to have it considered for publication in the following week’s newspaper.

• Letters must be no longer than 400 words.

• Letters should be exclusively submitted to Colorado Community Media and should not submitted to other outlets or previously posted on websites or social media. Submitted letters become the property of CCM and should not be republished elsewhere.

Life insurance usually comes with a basic plan, perhaps $15,000 may be

passion and desire to win.

The small consulting company beat the Goliaths they faced because they were better prepared, brought specifi c expertise and were never intimidated by their competition. They never let themselves feel like they were out of the game.

How about you? Are there times where you feel overwhelmed, outnumbered and outmatched? Do you keep yourself in the right head space when it comes to staying in the game? I would love to hear your story at gotonorton@ gmail.com, and when we can show up prepared to win, expecting to win, and with the passion and desire to win, it really will be a better than good life.

Retirement savings is also crucial in planning for 2023. Limits will be increasing in 2023 to $22,500 for most employer-sponsored qualified plans such as a 401(k). The catch-up provision for those over age 50 will be $7,500. Therefore you may want to increase your 401(k) contribution to get the maximum allowed. The annual limit on IRA plans increased

Anyone changing jobs or planning to retire next year may benefit from a Roth Conversion. This type of preplanning could substantially improve your retirement income in the future. It is important to take the time to learn about your options to make sure you enroll for what is best for you and your family.

Patricia Kummer has been a Certified Financial Planner professional and a fiduciary for over 35 years and is Managing Director for Mariner Wealth Advisors.

corrected me and said 54%. Asked why because of Colorado resources and was told we are buying it from another country.

Does this stop global warming or is it a part of going all electric and the new deal. Inflation and heating your home may take a toll on home owners and renters. No complaining from those who voted for what we have.

D. Dale Weides Highlands Ranch

• Letters advocating for a political candidate should focus on that candidate’s qualifications for o ce. We cannot publish letters that contain unverified negative information about a candidate’s opponent. Letters advocating for or against a political candidate or ballot issue will not be published within 12 days of an election.

• Publication of any given letter is at our discretion. Letters are published as space is available.

• We will edit letters for clarity, grammar, punctuation and length and write headlines (titles) for letters at our discretion.

• Please don’t send us more than one letter per month. First priority for publication will be given to writers who have not submitted letters to us recently.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator of

individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries.

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Traditionally, playing with food has a bad reputation, but the rising popularity of charcuterie boards is changing that by encouraging diners to get creative with endless mix-and-match options.

Part art project, part meal prep, charcuterie is typically a combination of cheeses, meats and crackers or bread, arranged on a shared plate, Chad Halbrook, general manager for Postino Winecafe on Broadway in Denver, said.

However, the growing love for charcuterie has also led to an expanded take on the term, with all sorts of spins offering a variety of finger foods and pairings, he noted.

Halbrook said charcuterie gained a lot of fans during the pandemic when restaurants were reduced to take-out and more people were cooking at home because it’s an option that’s quick, versatile and requires few kitchen skills.

“People wanted to spice up what they were snacking on at home, make it look good and not necessarily spend a lot of time cooking,” Halbrook said.

He said that charcuterie’s popularity also spikes during the holiday season for those same reasons.

“When we dine with friends, it’s a communal experience and there’s something that brings people together in conversation over a charcuterie board as opposed to individual entrees,” he said.

The demand for charcuterie resulted in the option popping up on restaurant menus all over the area, including several at Postino’s, as well as spawning classes on building boards and whole businesses dedicated to selling premade charcuterie for those not inclined to make their own.

Postino Winecafe, which has four locations in Denver and Highlands Ranch, o ers a variety of board appetizers that can be ordered for take out. Chad Halbrook, assistant manager for the Postino on Broadway, said the communal nature of charcuterie makes it a common choice for groups and parties.

COURTESY OF POSTINO WINECAFE

Charcuterie is a popular choice for holiday events because it can be a quick and versatile option for any size group, whether as an appetizer or meal, Melissa Clement said.

COURTESY OF MELISSA CLEMENT

In Castle Rock, one such business is Farmgirl Foods, a market that features local products, including charcuterie, and offers DIY classes.

Owner Melissa Clement said she thinks the charcuterie boards and classes are so popular because it’s a fun and social activity, whether you’re making a spread or just eating it.

“People will get so excited when they learn how to make a prosciutto rose or taste something, whether it’s a combination of flavors or one particular product, that opens up their palate,” she said.

When Clement is putting together her charcuterie, she typically starts with opposing textures and flavors, like a savory creamy brie and candied walnuts. She likes to include a hard cheese, a soft cheese and a crumbly cheese alongside some dried or smoked meats, like salami, prosciutto or chorizo, as well as crackers, bread and toppings.

Toppings can range from fruits, veggies, nuts or chocolate to spreads like honey, jam, hummus or mustard, she said.

“You want all the flavors to play with each other,” Clement said. “I always like to do something smoky or spicy together with something sweet.”

Halbrook also noted that swapping out meat for more cheese or adding more alternative options makes charcuterie easy to alter for a variety of diets and allergies. Similarly, Halbrook suggested making seasonal changes, such as adding in herbs, cranberries and oranges for winter spreads.

“It doesn’t always have to be meat and cheese,” he said. “You can do all sorts of things to please every person attending your holiday event or party. You can do veggie board for your vegan friends, which allows you to really splash more color on the board.”

Both Halbrook and Clement recommend splurging on the cheese, since it’s the star of the spread, but noted charcuterie doesn’t have to be pricey. Clement suggests cutting down on the accouterments or using what’s already on hand.

For proportions, Clement said she plans around two ounces of each cheese and meat per person if serving as an appetizer, or up to 6 ounces

of each food per person if it’s the main meal.

Halbrook added there’s no harm in starting with smaller amounts.

“There’s no shame in refilling or having a backup item,” he said.

As for styling the charcuterie in an Instagram-worthy way, Clement said she will start by laying out the bigger items so that she can design

around them. One of her favorite tips is to top the board by sprinkling dried fruit or edible flowers on top.

Ultimately though, she said there are no set rules, and that’s what makes it fun.

“A lot of times I won’t do a flat board, I’ll do a tiered tray,” Clement said of the possibilities. “The No. 1 thing to remember is you can’t do it

wrong, you really can’t.”

Still, for those that don’t want to spend the time to prep and build charcuterie, there are several businesses in the Denver metro area that offer pre-made charcuterie, including both Farmgirl Foods and Postino, which also has locations in Highlands Ranch, LoHi and at 9th and Colorado.

A one-night-only, magical prelude to the holiday season, this concert juxtaposes nine di erent settings of the Magnificat – the Virgin Mary’s song of praise that heralds a divine birth – with other well-known Advent melodies such as O Come, O Come Emmanuel and Ave Maria. Settings span medieval times to the 21st century, including Bach, Biebl, Schlenker, Praetorius, Ešenvalds, and many others.

Sunday, November 27 3:00 pm

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

Melissa Clement, owner of Farmgirl Foods, a market in Castle Rock that o ers charcuterie boards and classes, said the finger food has been gaining fans thanks to the mix of creativity and socialization involved in eating or building one. At its basic level, charcuterie is a variety of cheeses, cured meats, bread or crackers and toppings.

COURTESY OF MELISSA CLEMENT

‘It doesn’t always have to be meat and cheese. You can do all sorts of things to please every person attending your holiday event or party. You can do veggie board for your vegan friends, which allows you to really splash more color on the board.’

Chad Halbrook, general manager for Postino Winecafe

DFF45 stands as example of film’s wide reach COMING ATTRACTIONS

In many ways, there’s never been a better time to be a cinephile.

The combination of a rainbow of streaming services that cater to practically every interest and the return of in-theater screening means that it is almost scientifically impossible for you to not find something to watch.

And in its 45th year, the Denver Film Festival highlighted its unerring ability to offer something for every taste.

From shorts and animation to searing dramas and eye-popping documentaries, the festival provided as diverse a swath of films as ever, all from top-notch facilities like the SIE FilmCenter and Ellie Caulkins Opera House.

“This festival is about bringing the very best in the filmmaking world and makers both behind and in front of the camera together,” said Kevin Smith, Denver Film CEO, on the festival’s opening night. “We know how important it is to experience these stories together because these are the stories that stick with us.”

During this year’s festival, I saw 7 films over 12 days — and as usual the festival’s selections all have things to recommend them. They all connect with the viewer, and all reflect the passions of their makers. Of those movies, here are my favorites:

Second annual protecting what’s important award

‘All That Breathes’ Release date : 2023 on HBO

Once again, it is a nature documentary that takes my personal top prize for cinematography at the festival, and that film is “All That Breathes.”

Set in the smog-draped and rubbish-covered streets of New Delhi, the film follows a trio of healers dedicated to saving the kite birds of prey who are suffering mightily as a result of humans’ pollution. You can’t help but be moved by the subjects’ dedication, but the images captured by cinematographers Ben Bernhard, Riju Das and Saumyananda Sahi are absolutely breathtaking.

The way they spotlight how nature adapts amidst humankind’s detritus is stunning and surprisingly affecting. It’s a true treat for the eyes.

Biggest revival of faith in humanity

‘Butterfly in the Sky’ Release date: TBA

If you see the title “Butterfly in the sky…” and your mind doesn’t

finish with, “I can go twice as high,” then we are not the same.

As someone who has made a life (and at least part of a career) out of reading, there was almost no chance I wouldn’t dig Bradford Thomason and Brett Whitcomb’s love letter of a documentary to the landmark children’s program, “Reading Rainbow.” What I wasn’t expecting was the full depth of emotion I’d feel watching the film.

Much like the show itself, that is largely due to Levar Burton. His thoughtfulness, warmth and passion is impossible to deny. And you can see that same love in everyone who contributed to the show, from the creators and producers to former book reviewers and composers (a scene where original musician Steve Horelick recreates the opening notes of the theme is an alltimer). And special recognition to author Jason Reynolds, who nearly breaks your heart towards the film’s conclusion.

Those who are firm believers in the importance and power of reading or just need something to make them feel good will find so much to love in this film. It’s a true can’t-miss. But don’t take my word for it…

Most provocative film ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’

Release date: TBA

Those who enjoy some sub-

stance with their excitement will find lots to love in the whiteknuckle eco-thriller, “How to Blow Up a Pipeline.”

The film artfully blends the elements of classic heist films like “Thief” and “Ocean’s 11” with a searing indictment of the corporations who exploit the planet’s natural resources even though it is actively ruining the environment. A crew of young people gather in the desolate Texas desert to protest the destruction of the natural world by destroying an oil pipeline. The film cannily unspools its secrets and the character’s backstories as it races to its powerful conclusion.

The cast is exceptional and full of talented performers to keep an eye on (Ariela Barer, Kristine Froseth, Lukas Gage, Forrest Goodluck, Sasah Lane, Jayme Lawson, Marcus Scribner and Jakey Weary).

After the screening, director Daniel Goldhaber, co-writer Jordan Sjol and producer Isa Mazzei spoke about the film and the importance of telling relevant, subversive stories. We definitely need more of this kind of storytelling and the film is a great example of why.

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

Clarke Reader

Thu 11/24

Sun 11/27

18th Annual Turkey ROCK Trot

@ 7:30am / $40

Douglas County Events Center, 500 Fairgrounds Road, Castle Rock. jason@runtochange lives.org, 303-907-5410

Twenty Hands High: Black Friday Blowout

@ 7pm

Pindustry, 7939 E Arapahoe Rd, Centennial

Polo Urias - Los Norteños de Ojinaga - Del Rancho Al Norte @ 9pm / $50 Stampede, 2430 South Havana, Aurora

Sat 11/26

Parker Parks and Recreation

Turkey Day 5K FUN Run/Walk

@ 8am / $30

17301 E Lincoln Ave., Parker

Gobble Wobble Run

@ 8:30am / $30

7306 W Bowles Ave, Littleton

Immersive Monet & The Impressionists - Denver @ 11am

Lighthouse Denver, 3900 Elati Street, Den‐ver

Andrew Callaghan

@ 7pm

Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom, 2637 Welton St, Denver

Fri 11/25

The Black Friday Showcase

Hosted By Sly Tha Deuce - 16 AND UP

@ 7pm / $15

Marquis Theater, 2009 Larimer St, Denver

Chase Bryant

@ 8pm / $22

Grizzly Rose, 5450 North Valley Highway, Denver

Santa Clause and the Colorado Community Media Craft Show @ 10am

Nov 26th - Nov 27th

Douglas County Fairgrounds, 500 Fairgrounds Road, Castle Rock. tgrimes@coloradocommunity media.com, 520-909-4882

Collabratory Holiday Qoncert - 16 AND UP @ 7pm / $15

Marquis Theater, 2009 Larimer St, Denver

Firehouse Theater Company's "Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley"

@ 7:30pm / $12.50

John Hand Theater, 7653 E. 1st Place, Denver

Hype 90s & 2000s Dance Party @ 9pm / $24-$28

Ophelia's Electric Soapbox, 1215 20th St, Denver

The Immersive NutcrackerDenver

Mon 11/28

Ryan

JULY

Friends of Chamber Music Denver: Friends of Chamber Music presents Junction (JCT) Trio @ 7:30pm Newman Center for the Performing Arts, 2344 E Iliff Ave, Denver

Paramount Theatre, 1621 Glenarm Place, Denver

Alice 105.9's Alice In Winterland with OneRepublic @ 6:30pm / $59.50-$89.50

Fillmore Auditorium (Denver), 1510 Clark‐son, Denver

OneRepublic @ 6:30pm

Fillmore Auditorium, 1510 Clarkson St, Denver

Trash., Mr. Atomic, Scuffed @ 8pm / $15

The Black Buzzard at Oskar Blues, 1624 Market St, Denver

Labyrinth theme inspires interpretations

Own an Original exhibit runs through end of year

BY SONYA ELLINGBOE SELLINGBOE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The Littleton Museum’s gallery holds a varied collection of paintings and sculptures now through Dec. 31. It’s the 57th annual Own An Original exhibit, labeled a “thematic fine art competition” by the Littleton Fine Arts Board. It was open to artists working in any medium except photography and the theme chosen by the board was “Labyrinth.”

The exhibit includes 35 paintings and sculptures, selected by juror Molly Casey of Nine Dot Arts, a consultant and curator who advises clients about collecting art. She and her business partner have offices in Denver and elsewhere and contacts with thousands of artists in the U.S. and internationally. She has a painting near the entrance and says “inspiration comes from places where the natural world meets human interference.”

The Best of Show award went to Niri Cath for “The Park,” an acrylic painting on a panel depicting a parking structure — “an unhappy replacement for an ancient lake.” Cath wrote: “in my work, I reflect not only on the impact we have on the fragility of nature, but also on the consequences that our attitudes

towards the world around us have on our own psyches.” Coloration is low-key and subtle. No way out of this dilemma, it would seem.

First Place was awarded to Randall Steinke for his colorful “Keyhole,” showing a woman trying to

spy on someone else, rendered in bright colors. “I paint in a figurative expressionistic style, using bold, vibrant colors,” he wrote. Bright turquoise, yellows, reds, purples sing out on this and his “Broken.”

Second Place went to Stacy Roberts’ “Hidden Place,” executed in soft pastel. “To me, the labyrinth represented the inner journey with all the convoluted paths and blind alleys,” she wrote.

Third Place was awarded to John Long for “imaginary time,” painted with acrylic paints on corrugated cardboard. Perhaps a suggestion of tree rings? Oranges, purples, lavender on a mottled blue and green base.

Honorable Mentions included Emily Lamb’s “Enlightenment,’ a classic Greek head, with glistening bits of glass around the open crown and inside, a blown glass orb nestled in an ephemeral bubble “like thoughts

contained in a vortex,” Lamb wrote, “representing our inner mind trying to narrow down.” Her technique includes Pate de verre handblown glass. Also winning an Honorable Mention was Elizabeth Morrisette’s “Lean in,” created with multicolored sewn zippers in a form that has collapsed to one side.

This exhibit is fun for a visitor to contemplate as one tries to interpret a given artist’s intentions.

Back in the early Littleton Fine Art Committee days, members hoped that some items from this exhibit would find their way into local homes as holiday gifts. Readers might hold that thought as they visit the Own an Original show. There are some really special pieces there.

The Littleton Museum at 6028 S. Gallup St. is open Tuesdays through Sundays. 303-795-3950. (And the attractive museum shop holds a lot of smaller treasures ...)

Niri Cath’s painting “The Park,” acrylic on panel, won Best of Show in the Littleton Museum’s Own an Original exhibit. The artist’s work can be seen at niricath.com.

COURTESY OF NIRI CATH

SONYA’S SAMPLER

King Arthur’s court opens with giggles as Vintage Theatre, 1468 Dayton St., Aurora, unwraps its gift to holiday audiences with “Spamalot.” Performances run through Dec. 11: Friday/ Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets: $20-$38. 303-8567830; vintagetheatre.org. (Lots of free parking available.)

Firehouse Theater

Firehouse Theater will celebrate the holidays with “Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” by Lauren Gundeson and Margot Melcon. Director is Littleton’s Linda Suttle. A sequel to Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice,” set two years after the novel ends. Address: 7653 E. 1st Place, Denver. 303-562-3232, firehousetheatercompany.com.

Holiday Craft Show

Gifts galore: Colorado Community Media Holiday Craft Show and Mini-Market at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, 500 Fairgrounds Road, Castle Rock. Nov. 26, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Nov. 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

Benchmark Theatre

Running at Benchmark Theatre through Dec. 10: “The COVID Wife” by Douglas County’s Suzanne Nepi, based on her experiences while her husband was ill and how she started helping other affected families. Nepi and Tanis Joaquin Gonzales perform. 1560 Teller St., Lakewood; benchmarktheatre.com.

online Nov. 15-17 at andymarquez.com.

CJRO

CJRO — the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra — with vocalist Marion Powers performs “Songs of the Season Past and Present” at 3 p.m. Dec. 4 at Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, Lakewood. Tickets start at$27. 303-9877845 or lakewood.org. Children 5 and over will enjoy this program.

Hudson Christmas

A Hudson Christmas returns to Hudson Gardens and Event Center, 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, on Nov. 25 and 26; and on Dec. 2, 3, 4, 10, 11, 15-24, 26-31.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets can be redeemed anytime from 5 to 9 p.m. Dated tickets: Adult $15, age 4-12 $12, under4 free. hudsongardens.org.

Stories on Stage “Making Merry” returns to Stories on Stage, with a visit from actor Jamie Horton. Dec. 17, 2 p.m. Nomad Theater, Boulder; Dec. 18, King Center, Denver. Virtual premiere Dec. 18, 7 p.m. 303494-0523, storiesonstage.org.

Sensory-friendly `Nutcracker’ Colorado Ballet will add a sensory-friendly performance of “The Nutcracker” on Nov. 27 at 5:30 p.m. Tickets: $20-$40, coloradoballet. org, 303-837-8888, ext. 2.

Curtis Center

Curtis Center for the Arts at 2349 E. Orchard

Road, Greenwood Village, continues its “Instructors Showcase” exhibit through Dec. 22. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 303797-1779, greenwoodvillage. com/curtis.

Botanic gardens

“Blossoms of Light” continues nightly through Jan. 7 at Denver Botanic Gardens York Street garden and “Trail of Lights” is open Fridays through Sundays Nov. 25 to Jan. 1 at Chatfield Farms in Littleton. Combine with a visit to Littleton Main Street for extra sparkle. See botanicgardens.org for details.

Michelangelo

Cherry Creek Shopping Center hosts an exhibit of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel artwork through

Jan. 15, with an audio tour guide available. Ticketed. shopcherrycreek.com.

Denver Art Museum

Coming to the Denver Art Museum: “Speaking With Light: Contemporary Indigenous Photography,” which focuses on Native voices and perspectives. Ticketed. Opens Feb. 19. denvertartmuseum.org.

College gallery

“Shared Visions” runs through Jan. 19 at Colorado Gallery of the Arts at Arapahoe Community College. Closed Nov. 21-25 and Dec. 22-Jan. 2. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. MondayFriday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursdays. Collaboration between Colorado Center for the Blind and ACC Art Students. Free. 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton.

Andy Marquez

Andy Marquez photographs, including 15 new images, will be available

Cole Henson, Mike Martinkus, Markus Warren and Eric Crawford are among performers in “Spamalot” at Aurora’s Vintage Theatre through Dec. 11. COURTESY PHOTO

As RSV cases continue to spike across parts of the U.S. — with some areas nearing seasonal peak levels — those typical “bugs” your child brings home may have you feeling on edge. With so much swirling around these days, it can be diffi cult to know what’s behind a constant cough, especially if your child is very young.

if you have concerns about symptoms your child is showing. They might perform tests, like chest X-rays, to see if pneumonia has developed.

When should you call a doctor?

Drink plenty of fl uids

Nasal saline to help with breathing

What parents should know about RSV GUEST COLUMN

Cool-mist humidifi er to help break up mucus

Talk to your health care provider before you give any over-the-counter cold medicine to your child.

How it spreads

ever, the virus can develop into

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, can include symptoms similar to a common cold. However, the virus can develop into something more serious. RSV can infect people of all ages but is most severe for older adults and young children.

Usually almost every child under the age of 2 has been exposed to RSV, but due to all the pandemic response over the last few years, kids have not been exposed as much to RSV. That is one of the reasons why we are seeing such a spike this year, as well as RSV in children older than 2.

Symptoms

RSV symptoms may vary and typically begin four to six days after infection. The most common symptoms might include:

Runny nose

Low appetite

Coughing

Sneezing Fever Wheezing

For young infants with RSV, they might be irritable, sluggish or fi nd it harder to breathe. Your pediatrician will be able to fi gure out whether it’s a common cold, COVID-19 or RSV,

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes an increase in RSV-associated emergency room visits. However, most cases will go away on its own in a week or two. Symptoms are typically at their worst on days three to fi ve of infection. Only 3% of children with RSV will require a hospital stay.

If symptoms become severe, contact your pediatrician right away. This may include:

Symptoms of bronchiolitis

Symptoms of dehydration (only one wet diaper in 8 hours or more)

Diffi culty breathing

Gray or blue lips, tongue or skin

A signifi cant decrease in activity or alertness

Even though RSV is common, and it might seem diffi cult to fi gure out how severe it will become, there are some risk factors parents should be aware of.

Children who are born premature or are 6 months old or younger are most at-risk for RSV complications. Children with chronic heart or lung disease, or a weaker immune system, can also be susceptible to RSV.

Treatment

There’s currently no vaccine to prevent RSV and no specifi c treatment for the infection. As stated, most cases will resolve on their own. However, there are a few things you can do to help relieve the symptoms:

Manage pain and fever with over-the-counter medications (consult your pediatrician for guidance and never give aspirin to children)

RSV is typically spread through coughs and sneezes, but can spread when someone touches a surface that has the virus on it and then touches their face, before washing their hands.

The following tips may help reduce your family’s risk:

Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm, not your hands.

Avoid close contact with others, especially those who are sick.

Wash your hands frequently.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home.

If you’re sick, stay home.

The best way to avoid transmission of RSV is what we have been doing very well over the last few years: Scrupulous hand hygiene with washing our hands frequently with soap and water, and cleaning the surfaces small hands get to, like doorknobs and handles. Also, wear a mask if you have any respiratory symptoms.

With the knowledge of what RSV may look like — and how it is different from other viruses — you’ll be able to take steps to keep your child as healthy as possible all year round.

For more information, visit the CDC website.

Dr. Matthew Husa is the chief medical offi cer of UnitedHealthcare of Colorado & Wyoming.

Dr. Matthew Husa

Valor takes 5A championship in volleyball

Eagles beat Rock Canyon 3-0 at Denver Coliseum

BY JIM BENTON JBENTON@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Valor Christian’s girls volleyball team accomplished something that

many teams only dream about.

The Eagles defeated Rock Canyon 3-0 to capture the Class 5A state championship on Nov. 12 at the Denver Coliseum and wrap up an 29-0 season.

“The team played amazing,” said coach Jayne McHugh. “I don’t think they even thought about being undefeated. All they

wanted to do was play for each other and give it all they had.

“It’s not normal. I kept telling these girls that what they are doing is not normal and to make sure they cherish every moment because it’s fleeting.”

With Erin McNair, Sasha Cohen, Delaney Russell and Chloe Elarton leading the way, Valor notched an

easy 25-12 win in the first set, won the second set 2519 and had to work hard for a 25-23 win in the third set and the sweep.

“Coming in, everybody wanted to beat us but we did better than everybody else,” said senior McNair.

“It feels real good. We played really good. We played together.”

Elarton was feeling out

of this world after winning the state title.

“We played amazing,” she said. “We relied on one another and leaned on each other the entire time. We really played as a team. There was definitely a lot of pressure but we handled it very well. We forced each other to handle it. It doesn’t

ThunderRidge runs out clock against Arapahoe

BY JIM BENTON JBENTON@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Will Fisher has been one of the ThunderRidge varsity football team’s defensive leaders all season.

So it wasn’t surprising to see Fisher come up with the big defensive play of the game in ThunderRidge’s 23-17 second-round playoff victory over Arapahoe.

Arapahoe was trailing by six points and mounting a drive that could have resulted in a tying touchdown and possible a go-ahead extra point.

The Warriors were inside the Grizzlies 20-yard line but Fisher recovered an Warriors fumble at the 5-yard line with 1:42 to play in the game.

ThunderRidge, thanks mostly to the running of Cole Hanchett who gained 130 yards in the game, ran out the clock and will advance into the quarterfinals where the 11-1 Grizzlies will have to face three-time defending state champions Cherry Creek (9-2) in the quarterfinals.

Sean Grow forced the fumble and Fisher recovered.

Aiden Olshan led the Grizzlies with 10 total tackles while Fisher had eight.

“That was a big turnover we got,” said ThunderRidge head coach Doug Nisenson. “When our offense started to sputter at the end, our defense stepped up really big. When one side needs help the other side steps up. I’m just proud of these guys.”

Fisher, a 5-foot-10, 195-pound middle linebacker, has 95 tackles this season and he was credited with his second fumble recovery

against Arapahoe, which beat the Grizzlies twice last season including a 23-16 loss in the playoffs.

ThunderRidge’s offense was led by freshman quarterback DJ Bordeaux who threw for 193 yards and three touchdown passes and will be one of the players directing the Grizzlies into their 13th week of action. Richard Okono caught all three scoring passes from Bordeaux.

“For this team, they love the tight games,” added Nisenson. “We really believe we can make something happen as long as we put ourselves in a situation to have a chance at the end.

“We need to figure out how to create a 14th week which will be a heck of a challenge against a good team. I’m just grateful we get to go into a 13th week with this group.”

In other second-round

Valor Christian’s Sasha Cohen goes for the tip in during game action vs. Rampart in the state semifinal on November 12th at the Denver Coliseum. PHOTOS BY PAUL DISALVO

Arapahoe quarterback Michael Moynihan (11) scrambles for yardage in the game against ThunderRidge on Nov. 4. ThunderRidge won 23-

PHOTO BY JIM BENTON

Valor Christian players celebrate as they take the State Final match in three sets on November 12th at the Denver Coliseum.

VOLLEYBALL

PAGE 22

feel real.”

McNair had nine kills in the title match, one more than Grace Langer. Skyla Morgan had seven kills. Taylor Bowman and Langer each had three blocks. Russell had 17 digs while Elarton had 29 assists and 10 digs.

Coach Angela Nylund-Hanson’s Rock Canyon team (24-5) defeated rival Chaparral 3-1 and downed

FOOTBALL

FROM PAGE 22

games played on Nov. 4, Cherry Creek whipped Fountain Fort Carson 42-6. Valor Christian (9-2) got past Legend 42-14 and will now face Regis Jesuit, a team that beat the Eagles in overtime during the first game of the season. Regis whipped Fossil Ridge 63-28 in the second round.

In Class 4A playoff action, Ponderosa (9-2) scored 19 second-half points to down Pueblo West 33-14. Heritage

Cherry Creek 3-2 to advance to the semifinals where the Jaguars outlasted Grandview, 3-1.

Defending state champion Cherry Creek rallied to beat Cherokee Trail 3-2 in the first round and got past Mountain Vista 3-0 but lost to Rock Canyon 2-3 before being ousted by Rampart 1-3 in the elimination bracket.

Mountain Vista beat Chatfield 3-1 but lost to Cherry Creek and Chaparral 3-1.

Heritage lost its first two matches in the tournament, 0-3 to Chaparral and 2-3 to Rampart.

(8-3) got 145 yards rushing and two TDs from Syria Siegler and a score from quarterback Noah Shoen who ran for 99 yards in a 21-10 win over Mesa Ridge.

Lutheran (9-2) clobbered Pueblo East, 49-6, in the Class 3A playoffs after grabbing a 28-6 halftime advantage. The Lions will host Frederick in the next round on Nov. 19 at 1 p.m.

Other games on Nov. 19 have ThunderRidge at Cherry Creek in a 1 p.m. game while Regis plays at Valor Christian. Heritage travels to Broomfield and Erie is on the road against Ponderosa.

CROWSS UP DRO ELZZ

FROM

Valor Christian players celebrate as they take the State Final match in three sets on November 12th at the Denver Coliseum.

PHOTO BY PAUL DISALVO

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CONTINUUM OF COLORADO 18,184.00 Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Grant

COOK STREET CONSULTING INC 12,500.00 Professional Services

COOPER, GARY 46.25 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

CORDANT HEALTH SOLUTIONS 108.80 Medical, Dental & Vet Services

CORE & MAIN LP 8,556.80 Construction/Maintenance Materials

CORE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 168,175.91 Electric

CORE ELECTRIC LOCAL ADDRESS 196,850.00 Bannock 2019 LID & Sageport 2018 LID Projects

COSTAR REALTY INFORMATION INC 7,067.22 Software/Hardware Support/Maintenance

CPI GUARDIAN - CLEARWATER PACKAGING INC 708.84 Operating Supplies

CRISIS CENTER 33,750.00 Reimbursement for Community Services

CROSS, COREY 414.40 Travel Expense

CROWELL, SUSAN 237.66 Software/Hardware Support/Maintenance

CURCI, JOE VICTOR 140.00 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

D L ADAMS ASSOCIATES 472.50 Professional Services

DAHL ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES 3,312.50 Professional Services

DAVIS, IAN 324.50 Travel Expense

DAVIS, TAYLOR M 170.20 Travel Expense

DAWN B HOLMES INC 9,375.00 Medical, Dental & Vet Services

DC GROUP INC 24,915.39 Service Contracts

DECAROLIS, JILL JEANINE 109.61 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

DEERE & COMPANY 93,161.82 Purchase of John Deere Tractor

DEVELOPMENTAL PATHWAYS INC 27,895.29 Mill Levy Distribution

DINESH, PONNI 441.88 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

DINKEL, JUDI 27.04 Office Supplies

DISTRICT ATTORNEY, 18TH DISTRICT 820,306.35 Legal Services

DOUGLAS COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 100,000.00 2022 Phillip S Miller Awards

DOUGLAS COUNTY DEPUTY SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION 19,935.00 Security Services

DOUGLAS COUNTY FAIR FOUNDATION 15,784.30 Farm to Table Proceeds

DOUGLAS COUNTY INMATE WELFARE ACCOUNT 3,600.00 Professional Services/Booking Fees

DRAKE, BARBARA 356.50 Travel Expense

DUES, JUDITH K 172.15 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

DUMB FRIENDS LEAGUE 11,832.00 Purchased Services

DYCK, DAINNA J 262.76 Travel Expense

DYER-JONES, LARA 751.33 Travel Expense

EAN SERVICES LLC 788.64 Travel Expense

EATON SALES AND SERVICE LLC 158.60 Repair & Maintenance Service

ELITE SURFACE INFRASTRUCTURE 380,624.07 Bannock 2019 LID & Sageport 2018 LID Projects

ELMORE, WAYNE 120.00 Professional Membership & Licenses

EMERGENCY SYSTEMS COMPLIANCE SERVICES 600.00 Service Contracts

EMPLOYMENT MATTERS LLC 1,850.00 Training Services

EMR ENTERPRISES LLC 2,155.00 Professional Services

ENGELS CONSTRUCTION & LANDSCAPE LLC 1,800.00 Repair & Maintenance Service

ENGFER, JOSEPH L 691.81 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

ENVISION IT PARTNERS 2,658.00 Software/Hardware Support/Maintenance

EPC USA INC 42,750.00

HDR

HEALTH

HEALTHCARE

WASTE SERVICES 107.80 Biohazard Waste Removal

HELENA AGRI-ENTERPRISES, LLC 4,030.50 Operating Supplies

HELP & HOPE CENTER 6,320.60 Emergency Rent Assistance Funding

HEYDEN, BRADLEE 365.70 Travel Expense

HEYDEN, COCHA 365.70 Travel Expense

HIGHLANDS RANCH METRO DISTRICTS 13,612.37 Water & Sewer

HILL, MICHAEL 364.50 Travel Expense

HIRERIGHT LLC 2,540.09 Recruitment Costs

HIXON INC 80.20 Operating Supplies

HODITS, SARAH 235.00 Travel Expense

HOFFMAN, DARCY 650.00 Veteran Affairs Stipend

HOJABR, AZAR 628.81 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

HOKE, SARAH E 138.00 Travel Expense

HOLCIM-WCR INC 8,518.73 Aggregate Products

HOPSKIPDRIVE INC 6,132.66 Student Transportation

HORAN, JOYCE CAROLE 22.95 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

HOUSE OF FAITH 200.00 Security Deposit Refund-Fairground

HR GREEN INC 573.00 Professional Services

HUDICK EXCAVATING INC 2,104,079.34 Moore Road and Waterton Road Phase 2 Projects

HUGHES, MATTHEW 42.81 Travel Expense

HUMANE SOCIETY OF PIKES PEAK 34,975.00 Animal Control Services

HUNDLEY LLC 560.00 Hay Bales Mix for Fairgrounds

HUSAK, PETER 171.71 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

IC THREADS 3,162.50 County Fair Awards and Operating Supplies

ICON ENGINEERING INC 1,347.50 Professional Services

ICS JAIL SUPPLIES INC 579.37 Prisoner Maintenance Supplies

ID EDGE INC 165.00 Operating Supplies

IDEAL FENCING CORPORATION LLC 22,500.00 Professional Services

IGLESIA CRISTO ROCA DE LOS SIGLOS 200.00 Security Deposit Refund-Fairground

IMAGEFIRST 153.60 Professional Services

IMPRINTS 4 EVENTS 940.24 Building Security Supplies

INDIGOLD CONSULTING LLC 7,350.00 Leadership Academy

INFINITY LABORATORIES GROUP INC 6,788.02 Business Personal Property Tax Rebate

INSIGHT PUBLIC SECTOR INC 33,194.88 Software Renewal

INVITAE CORPORATION 1,500.00 Forensic Testing

IRON BEAR TRAILER 5,302.85 Professional Services

ITERIS INC 47,070.00 Traffic Signal Parts

J P MORGAN CHASE BANK 851,647.22 PCard Purchases 09/05/22-10/04/22

JACOBS ENGINEERING GROUP INC 17,531.54 West Frontage Road Relocation Project

JDFO PLLC 253.13 Legal Services

JEFFERSON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HS 2,415.70 Professional Services

JOGAN HEALTH LLC 121,754.10 Public Health Services

JON P DICKEY LLC 7,300.00 Roofing Inspections

KALIHER, MEGHAN 409.19 Travel Expense

KANE, MICHELLE 68.13 Travel Expense

KELLY, CHRIS 68.06 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

KEN GARFF FORD GREELEY 58,538.00 Purchase of 2022 Ford F550

KENNEDY - COLORADO LLC 15,310.51 Building/Land Lease/Rent

KIEWIT INFRASTRUCTURE COMPANY 73,616.95 Asphalt & Asphalt Filler

KISSINGER & FELLMAN PC 355.50 Legal Services

KNOTHEAD TREE AND LAWN CARE 4,995.00 Landscaping Service

KOIS BROTHERS EQUIPMENT COMPANY 43,112.17 Equipment & Motor Vehicle Parts

KRAEMER NORTH AMERICA LLC 373,413.16 US 85 Project

KRAMER, DERIC D 67,000.00 Right-of-Way-Permanent

KUBL GROUP LLC 5,740.00 Repair & Maintenance Service

KUHRY, RAVEN 958.35 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

KWGN-TV 200.00 Fair Marketing & Sponsorship

L L JOHNSON DISTRIBUTING COMPANY 10,907.00 Machinery & Equipment

LABORERS’ LOCAL 720 612.00 Security Deposit Refund-Fairground

LANE, ANGELA 29.25 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

LEARY, LAURA 856.50 Metro Area Meeting and Travel Expense

LEE, BRIANA 80.76 Travel Expense

LEE, KORY 510.07 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

LEGACY PINES, LLC 135,658.00 Escrow Payable

LEGAL & LIABILITY RISK MANAGEMENT 550.00 Conference, Seminar, Training Fees

LEVEL 3 COMMUNICATIONS 11,845.07 Telephone/Communications

LIEBER, JEREMY J 1,086.39 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

LIGHTING ACCESSORY & WARNING SYSTEMS 52,850.69 Vehicle Accessories

LININGER, NATHAN MICHAEL 64.21 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

LIVING CENTER LLC 1,000.00 Medical, Dental & Vet Services

LOCLYZ MEDIA SERVICES 13,490.00 Digital Media Services

LOGINRADIUS INC 47,000.00 Software Renewal

LONG, PAT 401.17 Travel Expense

LOUVIERS WATER & SANITATION 11,331.06 Water & Sewer

LOWER THE BARRIER 1,925.00 Conference, Seminar, Training Fees

LUM, CHRISTIAN DELYNN 46.42 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

LUMIN8

LYNN

LYTLE

MACARAEG,

MAINTENANCE

MANNA

MAPLE

MARQUEZ,

MARTIN

MATRIX

MCDANOLD,

MCKNIGHT,

MCMORRIS,

MCNAMARA,

Community Service Court Fees

MEEHAN, GERMAINE 100.30 Travel Expense

MERIDIAN FIRE AND SECURITY LLC 4,321.33 Office Supplies and Service Contracts

MILDREN, JODI B 776.07 Travel Expense

MILE HI GOLDEN RETRIEVER CLUB 305.00 Security Deposit Refund-Fairground

MILLER WENHOLD CAPITOL 9,166.66 Lobbying Services

MILLS, DEBORAH M 436.35 Fair Rodeo Supplies and Travel Expense

MINECK, COREY 614.92 Insurance Claims-Liability

MITCHELL, ALYSSA 256.11 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

MOEDE, SCOTT 18.12 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

MOMENTUM TELECOM INC 777.12 Telephone/Communications

MONTGOMERY, MARC 2,543.85 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

MOONEY, LARA J 172.50 Travel Expense

MORRISON, DAVID 37.80 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

MORTENSEN MOUNTAIN LLC 600.00 Waste Disposal Services

MOSS ADAMS LLP 17,375.00 Accounting & Financial Services

MOTHERS OF MULTIPLES SOCIETY 534.00 Security Deposit Refund-Fairground

MOTOROLA SOLUTIONS INC 9,370.29 Communication Equipment

MOYERS, ANN 493.24 Travel Expense

MTM RECOGNITION 4,898.54 Recognition Programs

MULLER ENGINEERING COMPANY INC 56,297.50 Quebec & Lincoln Projects

MYERS ENTERPRISES INC 2,525.00 Operating Supplies

944199

Legals

Public Trustees

PUBLIC NOTICE

Highlands Ranch NOTICE OF SALE

Public Trustee Sale No. 2022-0144

To Whom It May Concern: On 9/7/2022 3:04:00 PM the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in Douglas County.

Original Grantor: JORDAN OBERTIER AND NANCY A. OBERTIER

Original Beneficiary: MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR REVERSE MORTGAGES.COM, INC., ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: REVERSE MORTGAGE FUNDING LLC

Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 11/13/2017

Recording Date of DOT: 11/21/2017

Reception No. of DOT: 2017079048

DOT Recorded in Douglas County.

Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $750,000.00

Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $286,999.90

Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-38-101 (4) (i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: This is a Home Equity Conversion Deed of Trust or other Reverse Mortgage. Borrower has died and the property is not the principal residence of any surviving Borrower, resulting in the loan being due and payable.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

The property described herein is all of the property encumbered by the lien of the deed of trust.

Legal Description of Real Property: ALL THE REAL PROPERTY, TOGETHER WITH IMPROVEMENTS, IF ANY, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE COUNTY OF DOUGLAS AND STATE OF COLORADO, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: LOT 32, HIGHLANDS RANCH

FILING NO. 110-H, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO. Being the same property conveyed to Jordan Obertier and Nancy A. Obertier, not in tenancy in common but in joint tenancy from Richmond American Homes of Colorado, Inc. by Warranty Deed dated July 16, 1997 and recorded July 21, 1997 among the Land Records of Douglas County, State of Colorado in 9739484. The Property address and tax parcel identification number listed are provided solely for informational purposes, without warranty as to accuracy or completeness and are not hereby insured.

Property Address: 9967 Silver Maple Road, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Tax Parcel ID No.: 222916207011

Which has the address of: 9967 Silver Maple Road, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

NOTICE OF SALE

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

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at the Public Trustee’s office, Philip S Miller Building Hearing Room, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, I will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. If the sale date is continued to a later date, the deadline to file a notice of intent to cure by those parties entitled to cure may also be extended.

First Publication: 11/10/2022

Last Publication: 12/8/2022

Publisher: Douglas County News Press

Dated: 9/7/2022

DAVID GILL

DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee

The name, address and telephone numbers of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

ALISON L. BERRY

Colorado Registration #: 34531

9800 S. MERIDIAN BLVD. SUITE 400, ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO 80112 Phone #: (303) 706-9990 Fax #: (303) 706-9994 Attorney File #: 22-028267

*YOU MAY TRACK FORECLOSURE SALE

DATES on the Public Trustee website: https:// www.douglas.co.us/public-trustee/

Legal Notice No. 2022-0144

First Publication: 11/10/2022

Last Publication: 12/8/2022

Publisher: Douglas County News Press

PUBLIC NOTICE

Littleton

NOTICE OF SALE

Public Trustee Sale No. 2022-0150

To Whom It May Concern: On 9/16/2022 11:43:00 AM the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in Douglas County.

Original Grantor: MARY J. DANKO AND JEFFREY G. DANKO

Original Beneficiary: NEW CENTURY MORTGAGE CORPORATION

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR NEW CENTURY HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2003-4 ASSET BACKED

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES

Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 8/1/2003

Recording Date of DOT: 8/6/2003

Reception No. of DOT: 2003118295

DOT Recorded in Douglas County.

Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $386,750.00 Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $513,615.22

Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-38-101 (4) (i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Borrower's failure to make timely payments as required under the Evidence of Debt and Deed of Trust.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

The property described herein is all of the property encumbered by the lien of the deed of trust.

Legal Description of Real Property:

LOT 33, CHATFIELD ACRES, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO.

Which has the address of: 7216 West Lakeside Drive, Littleton, CO 80125

NOTICE OF SALE

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

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at the Public Trustee’s office, Philip S Miller Building Hearing Room, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, I will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. If the sale date is continued to a later date, the deadline to file a notice of intent to cure by those parties entitled to cure may also be extended.

First Publication: 11/10/2022

Last Publication: 12/8/2022

Publisher: Douglas County News Press Dated: 9/16/2022 DAVID GILL

DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee

The name, address and telephone numbers of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is:

ALISON L. BERRY

Colorado Registration #: 34531 9800 S. MERIDIAN BLVD. SUITE 400, ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO 80112

Phone #: (303) 706-9990

Fax #: (303) 706-9994

Attorney File #: 16-012398

*YOU MAY TRACK FORECLOSURE SALE DATES on the Public Trustee website: https://www.douglas.co.us/public-trustee/

Legal Notice No. 2022-0150

First Publication: 11/10/2022 Last Publication: 12/8/2022

Publisher: Douglas County News Press PUBLIC NOTICE

Lone Tree

NOTICE OF SALE Public Trustee Sale No. 2022-0148

To Whom It May Concern: On 9/15/2022 11:09:00 AM the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in Douglas County.

Original Grantor: BETHLEHEM A EYOB Original Beneficiary: MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR LEHMAN BROTHERS BANK, FSB, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt: U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee, Banc of America Funding Corporation Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2007-4

Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 4/15/2004

Recording Date of DOT: 5/17/2004

Reception No. of DOT: 2004049943

DOT Recorded in Douglas County.

Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $659,200.00

Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $290,232.76

Pursuant to C.R.S. §38-38-101 (4) (i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Borrower's failure to make timely payments as required under the Evidence of Debt and Deed of Trust.

THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.

The property described herein is all of the property encumbered by the lien of the deed of trust.

Legal Description of Real Property: LOT 116, CARRIAGE CLUB ESTATES FILING NO. 1, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO.

Which has the address of: 10561 Lieter Place, Lone Tree, CO 80124

NOTICE OF SALE

The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein,

TPM STAFFING SERVICES 184.98 Contract Work/Temporary Agency

TRAFFIC SIGNAL CONTROLS INC 73,714.26 Traffic Signals - Construction and Parts

TRANS AERO LIMITED 98,376.00 Helicopter Services

TRANSWEST TRUCK TRAILER RV 680.21 Meals for Training Event

TRI POINTE HOMES, INC 5,000.00 Escrow Payable

TRI-COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT 7,297.10 Public Health Services

TRUE NORTH SURVEYING & MAPPING 3,000.00 Road-Street Drainage-Engineering

TRUJILLO, DARREN J 170.20 Travel Expense

SANCTUARY

SANDOVAL ELEVATOR COMPANY LLC 6,664.50

SATHER, ELIZABETH L PSY D 2,500.00 Training Services

IRENE

SAVIO HOUSE 17,483.00 Professional Services

SCHEUBER & DARDEN ARCHITECTS 2,300.00 Professional Services

SCHMUDLACH, RANDY 2,500.00 Escrow Payable

SCHWAB, GREG 1,030.00 Repair & Maintenance Service

SCIORE, ALEXANDRA 468.69 Travel Expense

SCOFIELD, MARY 200.00 Judges/Referees/ Fair Show Management

SEDALIA LANDFILL 2,082.30 Waste Disposal Services

SEDAM, PENNY 12,277.75 Professional Services

SEDAM, PENNY 946.45 Travel Expense

SEMPERA 21,060.00 Contract Work/Temporary Agency

SENTINEL TECHNOLOGIES 2,440.00 Software/Hardware Support/Maintenance

SHADY TREE SERVICE LLC 11,000.00 Landscaping Service

SHAMROCK LIVESTOCK 3,048.00 County Fair Service

SHEA PROPERTIES MANAGEMENT CO INC 3,232.00 Escrow Payable

SHILOH HOUSE 86,833.72 Child Welfare Services

SHINN, RYAN 324.50 Travel Expense

SHUMS CODA ASSOCIATES 1,350.00 Elevator

TST INFRASTRUCTURE LLC 5,331.45 Road-Street Drainage-Engineering

TWOPENNY PRODUCTIONS LLC 5,970.00 Training Services

TYLER TECHNOLOGIES INC 891.16 Software/Hardware Support/Maintenance

TYSON, TODD 42.52 Fee Refunds - Clerk & Recorder

UCHEALTH 3,283.01 Medical, Dental & Vet Services

UMB BANK 432.35 Banking Service Fees

UNCC-UTILITY NOTIFICATION CENTER OF COLORADO 1,388.40 Professional Services

UNIFORMS WEST 1,099.00 Clothing & Uniforms

UNITED SITE SERVICES 2,125.20 Waste Disposal Services

UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE 45,000.00 Postage & Delivery Service

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHAPEL HILL 3,658.26 Professional Services

URBAN DRAINAGE & FLOOD CONTROL 500,000.00 Drainage and Flood Control Improvements Cherry Creek

US BANK NA 1,716.00 Bank Fees

UTAH NARCOTIC OFFICERS ASSOCIATION 4,000.00

vice president of the Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions, said Colorado has allowed “billionaires, startups and entrepreneurs” to take control of medicine in this state instead of “scientists, medical doctors and the FDA.”

Niforatos said that if opponents of the measure had been able to raise enough money to educate the public about the dangers of allowing the use of drugs with no regulated dosage amounts or prescriptions, Proposition 122 would have failed.

“We can’t compete with $4 million from out of state,” he said, adding that proponents of the measure and the psilocybin industry will benefit from its passage while his side had no payoff to entice big-money donors.

He’s also concerned that the opening of psychedelic healing centers and advertising of the drugs in cities across Colorado

HEALTH

RSV transmission, said state epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy.

She asked people to get vaccinated, both for the flu and COVID-19, and to stay home if they are sick, even with mild symptoms.

“A mild infection in me or you can translate to a life-threatening infection to a young child or an older adult,” she said.

The flu, COVID and RSV are all different illnesses, but it’s possibly for people to have more than one at the same time. The symptoms of RSV are runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing, which can make it

will normalize drug use among young people, leading to more teens using psilocybin. There is no opt-out provision in Prop 122 for cities and counties that do not want psychedelic healing centers, although cities and counties could enact rules about where the centers could open and their hours of operation.

Proposition 122 also will allow facilities to expand to three plant-based psychedelics in 2026. Those are ibogaine, from the root bark of an iboga tree; mescaline, which is from cacti; and dimethyltryptamine, or DMT, a natural compound found in plants and animals. Mental health centers and substance abuse treatment clinics also could seek licenses to offer psychedelic treatment.

The natural medicines, used to treat anxiety and depression, are obtained now through friends who grow them or from underground “trip guides” who sit with clients during a psychedelic experience, then help them process afterward.

Three years ago, Denver residents voted to decriminalize

difficult for parents to tell the difference between RSV, the flu and COVID.

The COVID-19 pandemic “disrupted” regular patterns for the respiratory virus season, pushing it back to early fall rather than winter. While the reasons aren’t entirely understood, it’s partly due to the health precautions taken during the pandemic —including isolation and masks — that also suppressed transmission of other respiratory illnesses, Herlihy said.

Health officials are seeing RSV spread during the summer and increase in the fall, and last year, saw an uptick in flu transmission late into the spring — both unusual timelines, she said.

“We really don’t fully understand, but it’s very clear that the

With the passage of Proposition 122, Gov. Jared Polis has until Jan. 31 to appoint 15 members to the National Medicine Advisory Board, which will report to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.

The board’s first recommendations are due by Sept. 30, and regulated access to psilocybin would become available in late 2024. Then

pandemic has been disruptive to how these viruses are spread and when they’re spread,” Herlihy said.

Hospitalization numbers for influenza are still lower than typical peak levels, but they are higher at this point in the season than the most severe flu season on record in Colorado, which was in 2017-18, she said. Health officials said they are unsure when the illness might peak.

The number of doses of influenza vaccine given this year in Colorado are on par with 2021, but lower than 2020 levels, said Scott Bookman, director of public health response for the state health department.

“So we do have an opportunity here to increase our influenza vac-

ment of Regulatory Agencies could plant-based psychedelics.

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.

cination rates as we head into this flu season,” he said.

Children’s Hospital officials encouraged parents to first check with their pediatrician if they are unsure whether their child needs to go to the emergency room. The state health department, meanwhile, is spreading word about the uptick in RSV and flu to schools, preschools and child care facilities.

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.

has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at the Public Trustee’s office, Philip S Miller Building Hearing Room, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, I will sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. If the sale date is continued to a later date, the deadline to file a notice of intent to cure by those parties entitled to cure may also be extended.

First Publication: 11/10/2022

Last Publication: 12/8/2022

Legal Notice No. 2022-0148

First Publication: 11/10/2022

For more information call Douglas County Planning, 303660-7460. File Number: DR2022-004.

Legal Notice No. 944194

By a thin margin, Colorado voters to make the state only the second in the nation to legalize use of psychedelic mushrooms. SHUTTERSTOCK IMAGE