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WEEK OF DECEMBER 7, 2023

VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 40

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Lyric condos on track for 2025 opening P8

NEW LEADERSHIP

School board changes

COSTLY FIGHT Legal fees mount in county dispute P6

YOUTH EXPERIENCE Representatives of Lokal Homes and Shea Homes joined Lone Tree Mayor Jackie Millet for a November groundbreaking ceremony in Lone Tree. PHOTO BY TAYLER SHAW

VOICES: 14 | LIFE: 16 | CALENDAR: 19

A look at government

P20

LONETREEVOICE.NET • A PUBLICATION OF COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

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HRCA, general manage recognized for excellence BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The Highlands Ranch Community Association and its general manager were recently recognized by the Community Associations Institute’s Rocky Mountain Chapter during the annual award ceremony and celebration at the Denver Tech Center. Mike Bailey, the general manager of the Highlands Ranch Community Association, received the “Community Manager Excellence in Service” award by the Community Associations Institute, an international membership organization dedicated to building better communities. With 63 chapters and more than 45,000 members, the Community Associations Institute provides

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From left: General Manager Mike Bailey, Highlands Ranch Community Association board of directors Monica Wasden, Dan DeBacco, Melissa Park, Kurt Huffman and Jim Allen. The Highlands Ranch Community Association was recognized by the CommuPHOTO COURTESY OF SHANNON HAVEKOST nity Associations Institute.

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information, statistics and resources to homeowner volunteers who govern communities in addition to the professionals who support them. Having been with the association for over a decade, when Bailey received the news about the nomination, he said he was “flabbergasted.” The award is given to a manager who displays integrity, reliability, commitment to the industry, loyalty to clients and the ability to interact and work with other managers, board members, services providers and many more industry professionals. “I am honored to work in and serve such an amazing community on a daily basis,” said Bailey in the press release announcing the award. “I work among some of the best industry professionals who consistently strive to do what’s best for the Highlands Ranch Community Association.” The board of directors, which is made up of five elected volunteers, accepted the “Association of the Year” award for the Highlands Ranch Community Association. The board of directors are tasked with setting policies for the community in order to manage the duties of the association. As the Highlands Ranch Community Association board of directors and homeowners

were recognized for putting the association’s interest first, the award also recognized the association’s team and homeowners whose members understand their roles and responsibilities. With over 32,000 residents, the mission of the association is to enhance and maintain property values while providing its residents with a quality of life. As part of this, the association provides architectural control and covenant enhancement for all residents. Additionally, there are over 2,100 commercial venues, four recreation centers, hundreds of fitness classes and competitive and recreational sport opportunities. The association also administers educational options for all ages, manages the Backcountry Wilderness Area, holds various community events and operates four nonprofit organizations. Bailey said it was an honor for the association to be recognized because it highlights the collaboration of the board of directors and delegates and that all of Highlands Ranch should be proud of this award.. “We live in this beautiful community and what we do, we do it for our residents in every facet of our operations,” said Bailey. “The way I truly look at this, this is an award that the community won, we just happen to be the mechanism that was recognized.”

December 7, 2023

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Letters to Santa

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Douglas County School Board President Mike Peterson resigned his seat on the board effective Dec. 1. At the Nov. 30 meeting, Peterson said he timed his decision to step down from the board for after the election so he could help support school PHOTO BY MCKENNA HARFORD funding questions.

School board selects new leadership Peterson resigns after vote BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In a split vote, the Douglas County School Board elected Christy Williams as the new president and Kaylee Winegar as the new vice president after swearing in recently elected board members Susan Meek, Brad Geiger and Valerie Thompson. At the Nov. 30 meeting, the board voted 4-3 to elect Williams over Meek and Winegar over Geiger, denying the minority members a leadership role. Board member Mike Peterson, who has been serving as president

on the board, announced prior to the vote that he would resign his seat effective Dec. 1. Despite his imminent departure, Peterson said he didn’t think it was necessary to recuse himself from the votes for new leadership. This allowed him to serve as the deciding vote in a 3-3 board split. Peterson choked up while speaking in favor of Williams, who was nominated by board member Becky Myers, saying she has cultivated trust in the district. “She has an unwaverable moral compass,” he said. “There’s no one I trust up on this dais more to lead this district forward with integrity, courage and truth.” Williams said she would prioritize SEE PETERSON, P5

December 7, 2023

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Douglas County offices will close at noon on Friday, Dec. 22 and will be closed Monday, Dec. 25 in observance of the Christmas Holiday. Many services are available at DoItOnlineDouglas.com

Questions about snow removal in unincorporated Douglas County? Do you ever wonder how county roads are prioritized for snow removal? Questions about citizen snow removal responsibilities? Answers to these questions and more can be found by visiting douglas.co.us and searching for Snow Removal.

Need help with home heating costs?

Douglas County School Board swore in recently elected board members Susan Meek, Brad Geiger and Valerie Thompson at the Nov. 30 meeting. The board also voted 4-3 PHOTO BY MCKENNA HARFORD to make Christy Williams the new board president.

PETERSON FROM PAGE 4

stability in the district as president. “I take a lot of pride in the fact that I don’t stir up drama,” she said. “I feel what’s best for our kids is to keep a stable environment.” Meek, Geiger and Thompson advocated that Meek had the most experience and knowledge to serve as president. The board also elected Myers to be board secretary and Thompson to be board treasurer. In his final remarks as a board member, Peterson encouraged his colleagues to focus on collaboration and avoid division. “Please pick partnership over partisanship,” he said. Peterson was elected in 2021 for his opposition to mask mandates

and support for parental rights. His time on the board was marked by conflict within the district, including firing former superintendent Corey Wise and breaking Colorado Open Meetings Law, which cost the district over $900,000 in lawsuit settlements. Peterson advocated for the 2023 school funding measures and served as the board’s liaison to the district’s safety and security committee. Peterson’s official term ends in November 2025. Once the board accepts Peterson’s official resignation, they will have 60 days to accept applications, interview candidates and vote for a replacement. Peterson represented District B, which covers a large portion of western Douglas County. In the event of a split vote for Peterson’s replacement, Williams will have the deciding to break the tie as the board’s new president.

Eligible low-income households in Douglas County may apply for energy assistance through the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP). For more information, to apply online or to find answers to your questions, please visit douglas.co.us and search LEAP.

What’s happening with your County government? Our commitment to open and transparent government includes online posting of information about public meetings at which the business of government is conducted. To view public meeting agendas, participate in-person or remotely, or watch select meetings via live stream, visit douglas.co.us and search for Business Meetings / Public Hearings.

Skip the trip - motor vehicle services just a click away Renew your driver license or motor vehicle registration and more from the convenience of your smartphone, tablet, desktop or laptop. You can also renew vehicle registrations at MVExpress kiosks. Find information at DouglasDrives.com

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December 7, 2023De

County racks up $26,000 in legal fees to fight Thomas Thomas sues for $5,800 BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

After Douglas County Commissioner Lora Thomas filed a lawsuit against her colleagues — seeking to recover the attorney fees she incurred while defending allegations that she created a hostile work environment and wrongfully distributed a government document — Thomas has raised concern about the cost of her fellow commissioners fighting the lawsuit. While Commissioners Abe Laydon and George Teal directed legal action “against me using countyfunded lawyers, they forced me to personally shoulder my own legal expenses to defend against

their ridiculous and outrageous allegations,” Thomas had written in a news release in coordination with the filing of the suit in August. Thomas, in the past, had asked Laydon and Teal to “personally repay the taxpayers” of the county for related legal expenses. Separately, “I have — not once, but twice over the past seven months — formally requested to be reimbursed for my attorney fees resulting from my defense,” Thomas had written, adding that Laydon and Teal rejected her requests. The suit named Thomas’ fellow commissioners. In part, it centers on their allegations of malfeasance and the subsequent investigation launched by Laydon and Teal last year. Thomas’ own legal counsel,

SHUTTERSTOCK

amid multiple investigations, cost her about $5,800, according to the lawsuit complaint in Douglas County District Court. Now, Thomas is pointing to the cost of the legal back and forth. “In just three months YOU, the taxpayers of this county-have been invoiced for $26,480.16 to avoid paying $5,800.00,” Thomas’ Nov. 28 email newsletter said. Asked about the newsletter’s criticism of the cost, Laydon sent Colorado Community Media a statement, deemed by Teal to be a joint response. “Our citizens aren’t dumb. No matter how hard she tries to gaslight the public, Lora Thomas’ perpetual reckless behavior and bad judgment are what’s incurring these costs to taxpayers,” the statement said. “It’s too bad Lora still can’t seem to focus on serving the people instead of herself in her final months in office.” How costs stack up

The investigation of Thomas by outside legal counsel last year cost about $24,000 in total. (The cost was previously reported as $17,000.) “On two occasions, I offered a compromise that if Laydon and Teal personally reimbursed the taxpayers for the almost $24,000 in taxpayer funds that they authorized … on a personal, vindictive and wholly unfounded investigation of me by Denver law firm Sherman & Howard, that I would waive my right

to reimbursement of almost $5,800 in legal fees,” Thomas’ newsletter said. “Laydon and Teal refused both my compromise as well as my request for ... reimbursement of my legal fees. As such, I was forced to assert my rights in court,” the newsletter continued. For a look at the legal arguments on whether Thomas’ legal fees must be reimbursed, see Colorado Community Media’s previous coverage at tinyurl.com/ ThomasLawsuit. Regarding Thomas’ recent legal claim for her attorney fees, the county attorney’s office is precluded from representing the county because of a conflict, and the county attorney “retained outside counsel to represent the County and Commissioners Laydon and Teal,” Jeff Garcia, the county attorney, wrote in an email. The outside counsel resulted in about $26,000 in total costs to date, the Nov. 20 email said. What led to disputes

The disputes on the board of county commissioners — Douglas’ elected leaders — form a complicated story. Laydon, in the past, has said Thomas had attacked first responders by sharing an anonymous letter. On the other hand, Thomas has said an investigation was “exonerating” of her. SEE FEES, P7

December 7, 2023

FEES FROM PAGE 6

Teal and Laydon had initiated an investigation after accusing Thomas of circulating an anonymous letter that criticized specific employees in the Douglas County Sheriff ’s Office, allegedly creating a hostile work environment. They also accused her of emailing county legal representation with a request not authorized by the full board. The investigation into Thomas by outside legal counsel found that while Thomas had distributed the letter, doing so did not create a hostile work environment. It also found she did direct legal representation to provide her with information the board had determined to keep secret. Thomas appeared in a CBS Colorado news story in July 2022 discussing the confidential

Commissioner Abe Laydon, one of Douglas County’s elected leaders, gives a “Harvard for a Nickel” talk on Oct. 26 at the county commissioners headquarters in Castle Rock to teach a crowd what he learned about leadership. Laydon recently attended the Harvard Kennedy School’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government program.

Douglas County Commissioner Lora Thomas applauds on stage at the 2023 State of the County event in Lone Tree.

PHOTO SBY ELLIS ARNOLD

report that showed the results of the investigation, prompting the Douglas County government’s attorney to find that Thomas could have broken the law by doing so.

Thomas had asserted multiple times in meetings and in her newsletter to constituents that she believes the privileged nature of the document had already been broken

by Laydon discussing parts of it publicly. A second investigation — this time conducted by the Arapahoe County Sheriff ’s Office — did not find probable cause to believe that Thomas committed the crime of first-degree official misconduct. “The Colorado criminal code does not specifically prohibit a waiver of privileged and confidential information by a privilege holder. In this case, as a member of the Board of County Commissioners, Lora Thomas is a privilege holder,” Arapahoe County Sheriff ’s Office Sgt. Bruce Peterson wrote in a memorandum. Laydon has argued Arapahoe County “got it wrong” in evaluating Thomas’ actions, saying “the privileged holder of a confidential document is the board” and not just one member of the board. He based his point on the understanding of the law of Chris Pratt, then interim Douglas County attorney.

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Lyric condos on track for 2025 opening BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In celebration of an upcoming condominium and townhome development in Lone Tree, city officials and developers gathered for a November groundbreaking ceremony at the future site. The development, consisting of 190 condo units and 80 townhome units, will be located east of Interstate 25 near the southeast corner of the RidgeGate Parkway and Lyric Street intersection. “You do not know how excited I am to be here celebrating this tremendous groundbreaking,” said Lone Tree Mayor Jackie Millet. The last time a condominium development opened in Lone Tree was about 15 years ago, she said. “Lone Tree is an amazing city, and we are blessed with so many wonderful things. But we are challenged by two things: homeownership and home affordability,” Millet said. “And both of those are getting addressed today with this local project. So, we are thrilled beyond words to be here celebrating this auspicious occasion today,” she continued. The developer of the combined 270 dwelling units is Lokal Homes. According to the developer’s website, building will begin around the summer of 2024, with the goal of the townhomes and condos being ready for residents to move in starting in early 2025. In an email, a spokesperson for Lokal Homes said the prices for the condo and townhome units have not been finalized yet, and it is anticipated that the pricing will be released to the public in about two months. As previously reported by Colorado Community Media, with the dominance of single-family homes, many communities in Colorado face a “missing middle,” meaning there are not a lot of diverse housing options such as townhomes and condos. David Lemnah, a co-owner of Lokal Homes, said the development is all about furthering Lokal’s mission to provide more attainable housing. “We all know what the challenges are, that exist — pricing, new homes, everything from interest rates and what we’ve seen with price appreciation has been very, very challenging,” he said. “And we want to keep Colorado a great place to live.” Construction is already happening in the area as part of the RidgeGate East

A large group of people celebrated the groundbreaking of a condominium and townhome PHOTOS BY TAYLER SHAW development in Lone Tree on Nov. 17, 2023.

development, which is south of Lincoln Avenue and east of I-25. Planned development includes a city center, regional park and three residential villages. One of the residential villages is the Southwest Village, which is also referred to as Lyric. The condominium and townhome units will be within this area, according to a city staff report. Due to the proximity of the development to the Centennial Airport, the Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, sent a letter in April saying it strongly opposes the development. The FAA said the northern boundary of the development is less than 2.5 miles from the end of one of the airport’s runways. “This means residents of the proposed development will be subject to ongoing aircraft noise and overflights of aircraft at low altitudes as aircraft approach and depart the airport, including training traffic using Runway 17R/35L,” the FAA said. In response to the concerns, a Lone Tree city staff report said there will be numerous notices to future residents of the potential impacts of purchasing property near the airport. These impacts may include aircraft noise, vibration, fumes, fuel particles, exhaust, and the operation and passage of aircraft above or near the property, per the report. Lokal Homes responded to the FAA’s comments in a letter, providing an engineer’s certification and attestation that the development has followed the

Construction was happening east of Interstate 25 in Lone Tree near the southeast corner of the RidgeGate Parkway and Lyric Street intersection on Nov. 17, 2023.

FAA’s notice and development review processes. Lokal Homes will complete noise testing after construction to verify that the interior noise attenuation is at or below 45 decibels, according to the city staff report. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a refrigerator hum has an average sound level of 40 decibels whereas a normal conversation has an average sound level of 60 decibels. Tommy Pucciano, a Lokal Homes employee, said there will also be language in the sales contracts that discusses the development’s proximity to the airport. Those interested in learning more about the development can visit bit.ly/ lyricdevelopment.

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STEM robotics team competes at regionals BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Within eight short weeks, a group of students at STEM School Highlands Ranch went from a brainstorming session to bringing people into Operating Room 1920, an interactive exhibit to learn about how nanorobot technology can serve the medical field. Having won the Front Range Best Robotics competition, the team qualified for the regional competition where they will compete against teams from across the country. The competition will take place at the Denver Coliseum Dec. 16-17. Every year, Best Robotics, a national six-week competition, has a different game theme that is centered around a current problem in the industry, touching on scientific and engineering principals that are used in a real world application. Themes in previous years have included renewable energy and genetic modification. This year’s theme focuses on robots used in surgeries and healthcare. “What makes Best kind of unique from other STEM competitions is the fact that in addition to creating a robot, you also have to market it as if it were a product,” said Dakota Mann, a mentor for the robotics team. “The exhibit is part of marketing your project for an engineering trade show.” Currently working as a systems engineer at Lockheed Martin, Mann graduated from STEM School Highlands Ranch in 2016 where he was also part of the robotics team. Mann has been a mentor to the middle and high school robotics teams for years. About 20 students ranging from freshmen to seniors

Members of the STEM School Highlands Ranch robotics club Davis Kelley, Hayden Jones, Caroline Vargish, Eathan Boen, Luke Pauka and Sasha Weiden hold their awards from the Front Range Best Robotics competition on Nov. 4. With more than 20 team PHOTO BY HALEY LENA members, they will compete at the regional competition in December.

make up the high school team. “[They work] a lot harder than you expect for high schoolers to work,” said Mann. “They’re really dedicated, they’re really professional. Really, it’s not that much different from my work day.” The development process

In early September, the game theme was revealed to focus on minimally invasive surgeries, which involve smaller surgical incisions. The students had a collaborative brainstorming session where they discussed how they could incorporate an interactive aspect into the game theme and for nearly 13 hours per week, the team conducted extensive research, marketed their brand and built an

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exhibit from scratch. “We definitely have to cram a lot into every single week from the designing to the fabrication and retouching everything,” said Sasha Weiden, a junior in the STEM robotics club. “That’s just kind of how the real world is.” As part of Best Robotics, the team must present themselves as if they were a mock company and develop a brand strategy as well as a sponsorship and community engagement strategy. Their company, MitoSTEMchondria, engaged with the community through promotional activities to encourage other students to get involved in a robotics club at their school and gain sponsorships. The back wall of the STEM School Highlands Ranch exhibit where they have an interactive program that demonstrates how nanorobot technology can aid in medical procedures. The team’s sponsors are displayed at the top. Among many of the sponsors highlighted in their exhibit, UCHealth was the top contributor. Given the medical theme, the students decided to market themselves to UCHealth. “We were all for it,” said Tomas Estrella, brand strategist with

UCHealth Experience and Innovation team. “And the main reason being, these kids, these students at STEM, are the next generation. One day they’re going to be supporting healthcare, so we want to support them now.” Estrella said UCHealth wants to get involved, support the community and find ways to support students early on as they begin to make advancements in their careers. The sponsorship also includes the middle school team and was mainly to help support them with financial assistance, although staff from UCHealth attended the Nov. 4 competition to cheer the team on. “These kids really went above and beyond with our sponsorship and put together a really cool exhibit,” said Estrella. The operating room exhibit

In addition to their first place trophy, the team won the best exhibit award, marketing presentation award, critical design review award and spirit and sportsmanship award. Students put their engineering skills to the test by building a miniature operating room for their exhibit. A dowel and latch system was used SEE STEM, P11

December 7, 2023

STEM

industry, the students had to construct a robot that could complete the task of performing a minimal invasive surgery on the game field. The game field was modeled after the human body that included arteries, veins, the heart and brain. Using their robot, they had to complete specific surgeries, like placing a stent in a vein and had to have an autonomous component. To practice for this component of the competition, STEM School Highlands Ranch constructed their own game field and invited other local teams to practice on it.

FROM PAGE 10

to put the walls together and within their exhibit included an operating table, operating room lights and two interactive games to showcase the complexity of surgery before and after nanorobot technology. “We like having engaging and fun components,” said Weiden. From complex wiring to 3D printing body parts, students constructed a life size operation game to represent surgeries before advanced technology. Guests used tweezers to extract faulty biowaste from the patient and would buzz if the tweezers touched the edge of the surgical area. Sasha Weiden, a junior in the school’s high school robotics club shows two first graders how to navigate the nanorobot through the veins of the patient by using a joystick and colored buttons. The students then developed a video game to simulate how nanorobot technology can aid in medical procedures. Once participants injected the patient with nanorobots, the sound of the heartbeat filled the room and the animation showed the robot traveling through the veins. By using different colored buttons, participants could make progress in the surgery, learn more information about the surgery they were performing and if something went wrong, such as a hemorrhage, the display would explain what happened.

Lessons learned

Sasha Weiden, a junior in the school’s high school robotics club shows two firstgraders how to navigate the nanorobot through the veins of the patient by using a PHOTO BY HALEY LENA joystick and colored buttons.

The exhibit also includes statistics about how robots can improve what conventional surgeries can do and information about the robotics team, such as demographics and photos documenting the process exhibit. Weiden is the head of outreach for the team and as part of the marketing division, he is one of the presenters for the team. The competition includes an exhibit interview in which Weiden

walks the judges through the exhibit and how it correlates to this year’s game theme. “It’s kind of similar to Shark Tank,” said Weiden. “We pitch our robot as a product that we will look to get investors.” The process helps students with engineering skills as well as their business skills and how to present themselves properly, said Mann. Also, using software programs used by professionals in the

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With students interested in business and interacting with engineers, software students interacting with public presenters and artists, Mann is proud of the work they all put in. Mann said many of the students were on the fence about going into the medical field and having this challenge solidified it for them. One of those students is Weiden. “I’ve really learned how complicated surgery is and how engineering can be used in surgical processes,” said Weiden. For the students, it was exciting to see their ideas become a reality, and for Mann, he loved the energy and the dedication they had. “Watching something come about from nothing so quickly is refreshing,” said Mann. “And getting to see all of them grow into effective professionals, I find that really fulfilling.”

December 7, 2023De

How a nonprofit is leaning into Daddy Bruce’s example The Epworth Foundation supports community year-round

To learn more about The Epworth Foundation, visit epworthfoundation. org.

university in Atlanta, Georgia. Her heart lies in entrepreneurship and, earlier this year, Dandoo-Young started her second business, which aims to help minority young adults bridge the generational wealth gap. Dandoo-Young attributes a lot of her success to The Epworth Foundation, which has offered her not one, but three scholarships. “It’s the investment they’ve put in me,” she said. “They looked at me and saw my dreams, aspirations and faith.”

BY CHRISTY STEADMAN CSTEADMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

After Princess Dandoo-Young’s team at Spelman College won the Goldman Sachs Market Madness Competition, she was moved that The Epworth Foundation reached out to pass along a congratulations. “It was unexpected because I didn’t think people in Colorado were still following what I was doing,” DandooYoung said. “It made me feel like I’m still part of the Epworth family.” Dandoo-Young was born and raised in Aurora and is currently studying

Daddy Bruce Randolph with people attending one of his community Thanksgiving meals in the background. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DADDY BRUCE RANDOLPH LEGACY FOUNDATION

economics with a double minor in mathematics and management and organization at the college, which is a historically Black, women’s liberal arts

Carrying on Daddy Bruce’s legacy

The Epworth Foundation is an allvolunteer run nonprofit that focuses on four core areas: youth, family,

hunger prevention and health. Its programs run the gamut from health screenings and a twice-a-week food bank to fatherhood/motherhood counseling and a children’s day camp. But perhaps it is best known for its Denver Feed-A-Family in Honor of Daddy Bruce annual event, which provides thousands of families with a full Thanksgiving meal. “There is a reality that this is a tough time of the year for many families,” said Steve Swinney, CEO and co-founder of Kodiak Building Partners which donates to the foundation’sThanksgiving efforts. “We wanted to be a small part of what they are doing.” Bruce Randolph — Daddy Bruce — was originally from Arkansas, but eventually settled in Denver, opened a SEE DADDY BRUCE, P22

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December 7, 2023

Reducing disease risk in modern life

he speaker at the January meeting of the Seniors’ Council of Douglas County will look at why humans are at risk for disease and how to reduce that risk. Whereas the 19th century was dominated by infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and pneumonia, the 20th century saw an emergence, and then overwhelming domination, of what has been termed the “metabolic” diseases. Obesity increased from a prevalence in 1900 of 1% of adults to over 40% of adults today. Likewise, type 2 diabetes increased from just one case per 50,000 individuals to one in eight people today. The epidemic rise of these two conditions has also been accompanied by a remarkable rise in the frequency of hypertension, heart disease, fatty liver, chronic kidney diseases, and Alzheimer’s disease. What is especially interesting is that these conditions tend to cluster in individuals, suggesting some underlying common risk factors for their development. The classical thinking has been that these diseases reflect our success as a species, as we have been so successful with our technologies that we no longer need to exercise, and that with the grocery stores filled with readily available food, that we can simply overindulge on a daily basis. Too much food and too little exercise must follow the laws of physics — the excess energy from calories is stored as fat, and it is the reason we are becoming fat and diabetic. Unfortunately, if it was simply a matter of just changing our habits, it would seem to not be that difficult to reverse obesity.

However, if one looks at the hundreds of books, podcasts, programs, diet companies, etc., that are in the market, it is apparent that preventing and or reversing these conditions remains a difficult task. We then discovered that there is only one nutrient that activates this biological switch. Our discovery, and the fact that we can get (or make) this nutrient from a variety of foods, including foods that contain sugar or high fructose corn syrup, from starchy foods, from salty foods, and from certain types of meats is life-changing. The net effect is that there are ways we can help prevent, and even reverse, these serious metabolic conditions. Details will be presented at the January Seniors’ Council of Douglas County meeting on Thursday, Jan. 4 beginning at 10 a.m. at Morning Star, 10100 Commons Street, Lone Tree. Dr. Richard Johnson is a professor of medicine at the University of Colorado. He has made major research contributions to understanding the cause of obesity and diabetes and has been funded by the National Institutes of Health since the 1980s. He has published over 800 research articles and reviews and has lectured in over 45 countries, and he is one of the highest cited scientists in the world.

and Denver Ballet Thea tre aP rker Arts Proudly Present

The Seniors’ Council of Douglas County advocates for, educates, and engages older adults. Meetings are free and open to the public. Verify meeting dates and locations at https://www. douglas.co.us/community-services/ services/senior-services/seniorscouncil/.

DEC

This holiday season, gather friends and family to celebrate The Nutcracker Nutcracker,, an enchanting ballet with a feel-good story about the wonder of childhood.

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LOCAL

December 7, 2023D

VOICES Tip not included

n what feels like a lifetime ago, I was a waitress. First, at a pizza place in the town where I grew up. Eventually, FROM THE after I got married, I EDITOR worked at the CoCo’s restaurant chain. I was a waitress until I could get my first job as a Thelma Grimes journalist. In those days, I relied on tips. Not to age myself too much, but as a college kid in my late teens, I thought getting a $5 tip was awesome. Today, a $5 tip would just get you labeled as cheap. My husband was also a waiter when we met. He worked at a dog track in Tucson. We both relied on tips to make ends meet at the start of our marriage. Because of that work, my husband and I have always been good tippers. We understand how working with the public in that capacity is not easy. However, he and I both agree that the world of having to tip everywhere is getting out of hand. It’s getting harder to be a generous tipper when you are being asked to hand it out everywhere. Let me stress, I am still a good tipper. Whenever I have extra and we are at our favorite Mexican restaurant in Parker, I have on more than one occasion been happy to leave $50 just to be kind. The reason I bring up tipping is because of a recent news story I read about Walmart self-checkout screens asking us to leave a tip. Really? We are scanning,

bagging and paying without help, but now we should be tipping. Walmart is one of the wealthiest corporations in the world. We know that for a fact here locally given they bought the Denver Broncos. I think Walmart should start paying their employees a living wage and stop guilting us into doing it for you. A November story in USA Today touched on this very topic and made a great point. The rise of digital checkouts and technology has made it easier for businesses to ask for tips, including industries like Walmart where we wouldn’t ordinarily expect to even be asked such a question. The idea of tips is spreading everywhere. We are being asked to leave a tip for someone who simply hands off food. For someone who may click a button for you. We are being told to tip in everything, even when it does not require too much work. USA Today’s Blueprint division surveyed Americans on the topic of tipping. The results are interesting as 63% of those who responded said too many places are asking for tips and 48% said they are just tired of being asked for a tip altogether. The tough part of this, being one of those who is tired of being asked to tip everywhere I go, is that I understand the need. The employees are likely underpaid. They are the ones these tips benefit. But I must ask: When is it time to draw the line? When is it time for corporations and employers to foot the bill and pay a living wage instead of relying on the kindness of a tired society?

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Radical right ridiculousness

It doesn’t take a keen observer of human and group behaviors to reach the conclusion that our local culture wars and divisiveness are, in great part, driven by the incessant and often ill-conceived rumblings coming from the radical-right ideologues now inhabiting our local government, institutions and churches. Don’t take this commentary as condemnation of rational conservatism. Engaging our philosophical, political and cultural differences via normal-speak is the key to a healthy democratic community. On the other hand, parts of our community are wholly committed to fulfilling the needs of outside influencers, national naysayers and radical extremists. This cabalistic situation kicked off many decades ago, and it still has a stranglehold on our lives and daily satisfaction. None of us is perfect, but the radical right’s need to turn every issue into an aggressive “us vs. them” proposition is wrongheaded. When local public figures resort to threats of civil war, feigned violence and chaos, isn’t it time to turn off that spigot? And get back to

normal discourse? Lloyd Guthrie, Roxborough Park Say yes to donation

Each year as the season of giving arrives, I like to reflect on one of the greatest gifts our family has been given: the gift of life. My son, Pochie, is a liver transplant recipient and was given a second chance at life thanks to his heroic donor and their family. With a career in the medical field and after years of caring for transplant patients, I’ve always had an appreciation for the incredible transformation made possible through a donor’s gift of life. That feeling of gratitude grew even more after I became the mother of a transplant recipient. It’s been almost 12 years since I met Pochie and later brought him into our family’s life. I met him the day I admitted him for his liver transplant. He touched my heart and I vividly remember telling our social worker that if he ever needed another foster placement to contact me. Nine months later, in December 2012, I SEE LETTERS, P18

December 7, 2023

Manage behaviors and measure results

s the year is drawing to a close, for many leaders and managers it is time for yearend performance reviews. As I have been preparing for the performance reviews for each member of my team, I found myself focusing on both the behaviors and the results. As a younger leader who mostly focused mostly on the results, I was missing the critical area of the behaviors that drive results. A very wise mentor of mine taught me this many years ago: We need to manage behaviors and measure results. And when evaluating people during review time, focusing on the leading indicators first is more helpful for both the leader and the person being evaluated. The lagging indicators certainly follow, but setting proper expectations around the required behaviors is a better indicator of consistent success. Reaching ambitious goals requires vigilantly tracking progress through both leading and lagging indicators. Leaders who monitor these twin metrics can course correct issues before they escalate and celebrate wins before the finish line. Leading indicators signal future results. They measure the activities and inputs that build capacity for success. Leading indicators include things like quality of hiring, employee engagement, product development cycles and customer satisfaction. Lagging indicators report past results. They confirm if efforts actually produced the desired outcome. Lagging metrics include profits, revenue, market share, project delivery and other definitive scorecards. Both types of indicators are essential, though leaders often focus heavily on lagging while neglecting leading ones. This limits their ability to anticipate and adapt. It’s like driving while only looking in the rearview mirror. Say your goal is to reduce customer churn. Leading indicators like Net Promoter Score show early warning signs of dissatisfaction you can address before customers defect. Lagging indicators like churn rate confirm if retention improves. To create a healthy rhythm, examine leading indicators weekly or monthly. Review lagging indicators

quarterly or annually. Let leading metrics guide your actions. Use lagging ones to evaluate strategy. This balanced monitoring system enables decisiveness and accountability. Mastering both types of indicators takes work. Leaders Michael Norton must get good at extracting meaning from data to separate signals from noise. They must ask tough questions to diagnose root causes, not just treat surface symptoms. In leadership, a common pitfall is micromanaging processes while neglecting results. We obsess over how work gets done without evaluating if it achieves the intended impact. For organizations to thrive, leaders must flip the script — manage behaviors and measure results. Managing behaviors means providing clear expectations, then focusing on how people show up, not just what they produce. Do they collaborate well? Innovate? Are they developing? Managing behavior looks at culture and problem-solving ability, not just output. Measuring results flips from tracking activities to assessing outcomes. Did the project reduce costs and increase customer satisfaction? Are sales improving? Sharp metrics provide objective insights on what’s working so strategies can be strengthened. Managing behaviors and measuring results must work in tandem. Behavioral expectations should tie directly to result targets. Progress isn’t real until both improve. This dual focus takes discipline and clarity. Leaders must define sharp metrics and commit to analyzing them. Otherwise, the results get fuzzy. They must also resist micromanaging execution. Empower people with clear goals, then let them determine how to achieve them. When leaders manage behaviors and measure results, teams thrive. People know exactly how they are expected to show up.

WINNING WORDS

SEE NORTON, P18

Memory In Loving

Place an Obituary for Your Loved One. 303-566-4100 obituaries@coloradocommunitymedia.com Self placement available online at HighlandsRanchHerald.net LoneTreeVoice.net

December 7, 2023D

LOCAL

LIFE

Board games are rising in popularity, and local shop owners say the games mean a lot to people BY JANE REUTER JREUTER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

hen game shop owners throughout the metro area talk about the reasons they got into the business, they all use the same word: Community. Games stores are more than just a center for play or a place to buy games. They serve as social hubs, something shop owners say is increasingly hard to find and ever more valued in today’s society. While church attendance continues to plummet, politics becomes ever more divisive, and tech devices are a growing part of our daily lives, the human need for physical connection remains. Sitting across a table from others and playing games, while temporarily setting aside worries that today often range from personal to global, is one way to fill that void.

“It really fosters an alternative for people who are not interested in religion or some other types of traditional community. And ours is a lot more welcoming in ways, too,” said Shannon Mills, who co-owns Littleton’s Mythic Games with her husband Mike Agnew. “We know everybody here, and we’re all here for the same kinds of reasons.” In fact, a recently opened Thornton game shop took its name from that philosophy. “We were kicking around what to call it, and a friend said, ‘Call yourself what you’re trying to do. You’re trying to build a community, to do good,’” said Jessica Willman, co-owner of Thornton’s Do Gooder Games. “Gaming is almost entirely about the community aspect,” said Jeff Kokx, co-owner of Enchanted Grounds, which has stores in both Highlands Ranch and Littleton. “I don’t think any game store owner is actually in it to make a mint. I think we do it because we enjoy it. We like the people that come in. We like community.” Whatever the reason, board gaming is hot. In fact, the Washington Post recently described now as the golden age of board games, and there are no signs of its slowing. The global board games market is expected to double

The Golden Game Guild’s chalkboard calendar, on display in the shop, is packed with events. Most game shops host regular events, often dedicated to specific PHOTO BY JANE REUTER board games.

in the next several years, growing from about $13 billion in 2023 to $26 billion by 2030. Board games promote sportsmanship, family, teamwork and competitiveness, and studies show they increase self-confidence. For kids who today spend hours each day interacting with technology, playing board games gives them time away from the screen, directly interacting with others. “I think the value of in-person communication and collaboration is

very important,” said Gabby Mann, who co-owns the Golden Game Guild with her husband Ryun Valdez. “Hopefully that doesn’t get lost in this wild world we live in now. I’m glad we have opportunities for that here, especially for kids.” “Our society is losing places to meet in person,” Valdez said. “There needs to be places besides just bars, especially for families, where people can go.” SEE PLAYTIME, P17

December 7, 2023

PLAYTIME FROM PAGE 16

Having a sense of community is also key to a successful game store’s business model. “Building community is building value,” Do Gooder Games’ partner Dan William said. “Once you’ve built the community, then revenue follows.” Mythic Games’ Agnew agrees. With ever-growing competition from other game shops and online shopping, brick-and-mortar stores have to distinguish themselves. “We never want to win customers on having the lowest prices,” he said. “That generates a very cheap and temporary loyalty. They’re not loyal to you; they’re loyal to the price. “There’s no competing with Amazon,” his wife Shannon said. “So we have to provide interest in different ways. We keep our space super clean, fun and open, and are always adding different events. It’s all about bringing people together.” Pandemic and game innovation fuels growth

The game shop formula is a winning one, particularly in recent years — a fact business analysts attribute to increased innovation in board game creation and the rise of game shops. The pandemic likely helped fuel that growth, as many people not only rediscovered board games while in lockdown but emerged from months of isolation craving social interaction and mental stimulation. “In the end, I think COVID(-19) was good for business,” Shannon Mills said. “People were so starved for human interaction. You can only play so many video games before you want to see somebody face-to-face.” Much of the industry’s growth is fueled by Gen Z. About 40% of game board players were born between

Husband and wife Ryun Valdez and Gabby Mann co-own the Golden Game Guild in downtown Golden, which draws students from the Colorado Schools of Mines, kids PHOTO BY JANE REUTER and families.

1997 and 2012, and forecasts suggest they’ll continue to be the industry’s most significant consumers. But it’s kids who dominate the industry. Players aged 5 to 12 are the global market’s biggest consumers. To meet all that demand, the industry produces more than 3,000 new games each year. And for those who haven’t played in a while, they’ve come a long way from Battleship and Aggravation. On today’s board game menu, there is literally something for everyone. “People will come in and say, ‘I don’t like games,’” said Mann, of Golden Game Guild. And we say, ‘You haven’t played the right game yet.’” Consider games like Wingspan, a card-based game about birds. Using hand-painted cards, players control a piece of land, on which they’re tasked with populating a bird preserve. Many describe playing Wingspan as a soothing, Zen-like experience. It’s clearly struck a chord. Since its 2019 release, Wingspan has sold 1.7 million copies and won numerous awards. Or Pandemic, a game in which plays are disease-fighting specialists battling the spread of several global plagues. Each player has a unique role, and must strategize, racing the clock with their fellow players to conquer the diseases. This highly

rated, award-winning game is not simple, but players love it for both its complexity and emphasis on teamwork. The tabletop role playing game Dungeons & Dragons, once a niche and secretive pastime played in basements and private rooms, is a feature act at almost any modern game shop. Almost all set aside one night for D&D, which often draws complete strangers together to craft their own fictional characters, worlds, and adventures. Created in the 1970s, the game is today at an all-time popularity peak. Fans also flock to game shops to play “Magic: The Gathering,” the oldest known trading card game. It casts players as wizards who get their powers from a universe of cards that are bought, sold and traded. And among the younger set, Pokémon trading cards remain a strong seller. Boosting the industry, celebrities are onboard with D&D and other games. “The stigma that once surrounded D&D has been removed,” Kokx said. “There are people who are very much in the limelight that play this D&D publicly — Vin Diesel, Jason Momoa, Joe Manganiello, Wil Wheaton … many have created podcasts and YouTube channels to promote the game.

“A lot of that is because our generation grew up with these games in the ‘70s and ‘80s. Now we’re older with disposable income, and introducing our kids to it. And it’s significantly more accepted.” In an effort to accommodate the growing interest in in-person gaming and the vast library of available games, shops are growing. Enchanted Grounds opened a second location. Mythic recently expanded to a whopping 6,300 square feet, giving them more space for games but more pockets within the store in which groups can play specific games together. And while many game shops cater specifically to the gaming community, offering sandwiches, snacks, soda, tea, and even limited alcohol sales, they’ve also broadened their focus to draw more customers. Do Gooder Games and Enchanted Grounds specialize in high-end, local coffee, and Do Gooder Games sells sandwiches, even drawing employees from local businesses for lunch. That’s not just good for the customer base, it’s almost vital for gamers. “Some of these games take 4-6 hours to play,” said Do Gooder’s Jessica Willman. “Sitting down and playing a six-hour game without any food or breaks is hard.” With its emphasis on quality coffee, Enchanted Grounds draws a broad range of customers. A Navy veterans group regularly meets there to talk and drink coffee. Women’s groups gather for mahjong and canasta. Remote workers in neighboring homes and apartments stop by to work for a few hours. All are part of the game shop community. Do Gooder Games includes a room that can be used to record podcasts, space for community meetings and an employee who teaches newcomers to the business how to play games. “Success to me will be defined by who successful the community is a the end of the day,” Dan Willman said. “We are thinking how to work with our community, and also how to help but also disrupt the industry. To break down the barriers and the stereotypes of (game shop customers) being white and maledominated, you need to cater to new people.” And just maybe, those new customers will find a game they love. “There’s a game for everybody, and it’s almost never Monopoly,” Mythic Games’ Shannon Mills said. “Gaming is like a walk-in closet; it’s way bigger than you thought it would be.”

December 7, 2023De

Miners Alley triples down on holiday theater for 2023

he holidays have always COMING Arapahoe St. been a special time at This adults-only Golden’s Miners Alley ATTRACTIONS musical will be the Playhouse. Typically, an company’s first offering for children and one that show in its brandadults can enjoy means the theater new space on has made a name for itself as one Arapahoe Street. of the go-to places to get a healthy The hilarious show dose of seasonal cheer. shines a spotlight And now with the opening of on the residents of Miners’ new location, the company Armadillo Acres, is taking the special opportunity to who were last seen Clarke Reader offer three shows this year. on stage in January “A Christmas Story” — in “The Great 1224 Washington Ave. American Trailer Park.” The sequel This show, based on the hilarious brings audiences back to the Florida 1983 film, will be the final show trailer park community for laughs, hosted in Miners’ Washington Keg Nog and much more. Avenue space. If you’re (somehow) “’The Great American Trailer Park not familiar, the story follows young Christmas Musical’ is the perfect Ralphie’s efforts to secure himself an show to open the new Miners Alley “Official Red Ryder carbine action Performing Arts Center,” said Len two-hundred shot range model air Matheo, Miners Alley Producing rifle” for Christmas. Audiences can Artistic Director, in a provided laugh along with the story while statement. “It’s an incredibly fun enjoying a hot cocoa and apple cider. and festive time as we revisit the Performances will be Dec. 6-9, 13- quirky residents of Armadillo Acres 16, 20-23 and 27-30 at 7:30 p.m. and with just as much crazy as the Dec. 10, 17 and 31 at 2 p.m. original musical.” “The Story of The Nutcracker” Performances will be Dec. 2-31 — 1224 Washington Ave. at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday through An interactive, hour-long long Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. holiday show for young audiences, No matter how you want to this take on the classic Nutcracker celebrate the season, Miners Alley story provides viewers with the has something for you. story behind the classic ballet. It’s Information and tickets for all the perfect way to introduce young shows can be found at https:// people to the theater and create minersalley.com/. some warm holiday memories. Performances will be at 11 a.m. on No ‘FoMo’ this holiday season at the Benchmark Theatre Saturdays through Dec. 30. “The Great American Trailer One of the best things about Park Christmas Musical” — 1103 Lakewood’s Benchmark Theatre

LETTERS FROM PAGE 14

received an email that he needed another foster placement with the potential for adoption. I called my husband immediately and told him I couldn’t help feeling this was meant to be. Who better to take care of a liver transplant recipient than me? My husband agreed, and we brought Pochie home with us. I can’t imagine our family without him, and it was all made possible because someone said “yes” to organ donation. Following the death of their child, at a time of tremendous grief, pain and heartbreak, the parents of Pochie’s donor made the decision to say yes to

organ, eye and tissue donation. I’m forever grateful for their decision. In honor of Pochie’s donor and to raise awareness for organ, eye and tissue donation, I walked with Donor Alliance in the 9NEWS Parade of Lights in downtown Denver on Dec. 2. I escorted the “Gift of Life” balloon alongside dozens of others who have been touched by donation and transplantation. In sharing our story, I’m hopeful that it will inspire others to say “yes” to organ, eye, and tissue donation. DonorAlliance.org is a great resource to help people make an informed decision about donation and to sign up to become a donor online. You can also register anytime you obtain or renew a driver license or state ID. Melanie Merrill-Kennedy Parker

is the sheer joy it takes in offering audiences theatrical experiences they may not expect. Which makes their holiday show, Frankie Lee’s “FoMo: Formerly Mormon,” perfectly in line with their mission. Featuring guest direction by Rebecca Gholson, the show runs from Friday, Dec. 8 through Saturday, Dec. 23 at the theater, 1560 Teller St. in Lakewood. Performances are at 8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Written by and starring Lee, the show is the story of a young man discovering his queer identity while finding a role in the Mormon church. The result is at times heartbreaking, hilarious and always achingly human. Get tickets and information at www.benchmarktheatre.com. Ballet Ariel takes audiences on a dance through a magical wardrobe

It’s always nice when a cultural institution shakes things up for the holiday season, which makes Ballet Ariel’s production of “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,” such a fun development. Based on C.S. Lewis’ classic story, the show follows four siblings who escape the war in London only to find themselves in something even grander in the mystical kingdom of Narnia. The ballet runs at the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8 and Saturday, Dec. 9 and 2 p.m. on the 9th and Sunday, Dec. 10, and at 2 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 22

NORTON FROM PAGE 15

They see how their work ladders up to make an impact. Purpose fuels performance. With rigorous tracking of leading and lagging indicators, teams reach new heights. You spot roadblocks early when they are still small. You double down on what’s working. These indicators act as navigational guides signaling the path to success. By taking this balanced approach, leaders enable their organizations to flourish. Behaviors and results are the twin engines that propel high

and Saturday, Dec. 23 and 7 p.m. on the 22 at the Parsons Theatre in Northglenn, 1 East Memorial Parkway. Get tickets and all the details at balletariel.org.

Clarke’s Concert of the Week — The Menzingers at Mission Ballroom

The Menzingers make punk rock that has more in common with legendary groups like Bruce Springsteen & The E-Street Band than it does with the Sex Pistols, and to my mind, that’s all to the good. Over their more than 15-year career, the group’s sound has evolved to be as anthemic as the biggest arena rock band while sacrificing none of its working-man ethos. Their latest album, “Some of It Was True,” continues in this vein, offering some of their sharpest songwriting paired with some truly rocking tunes. R In celebration of the album, the S group is joining with a top-notch group of indie rock stalwarts for a L special performance at the Mission @ Ballroom, 4242 Wynkoop St. in T Denver, at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, to Dec. 13. They’ll be joined by Pa Microwave, Cloud Nothings and @ Rodeo Boys for anything but a quiet Co night. Gr Get tickets at www.ticketmaster. Er com. @

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

F achievement. Master them, and your team can reach new heights. Are you establishing clear metrics and goals for yourself and your team? Are you actively tracking both the leading and lagging indicators? I would love to hear your story at gotonorton@gmail.com, and when we can remember to manage behaviors and measure results, it really will be a better than good life.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager T and motivator of individuals and @ businesses, working with organizations M and associations across multiple B industries.

December 7, 2023

Thu 12/14

Featured

Tue 12/19 Featured

Christmas Candy Cane Orna‐ ment at Max Taps Centennial @ 1pm / $35 Max Taps Centennial, 11405 E Bri‐ arwood Ave, Centennial. dan@ paintnite.com

Brightenstar René Moffatt Music: Featured Songwriter @ The Alley in Littleton

@ 8pm Ecclesia Market, 221 Perry St, Castle Rock

@ 7pm The Alley, 2420 W Main St, Little‐ ton

Featured

Christmas with Lorie Line 2023 @ 7pm The Schoolhouse at Mainstreet, 19650 Mainstreet, Parker

Pat McGann

Thu 12/21

@ 7pm Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl, Greenwood Village

Featured

Eric Golden @ 7:30pm Wide Open Saloon, 5607 US-85, Sedalia

Fri 12/15 Featured

Xmas The Mike G Band @ 8pm The Alley, 2420 W Main St, Little‐ ton

@ 8pm Wild Goose Saloon, 11160 S. Pikes Peak Drive, Parker

Sat 12/16 Vamonos Pest/Mobro: Mobro at Brewability Lab

Sun 12/17

@ 6pm Brewability Lab, 3445 S Broadway, Engle‐ wood

Christmastime in the City

Teague Starbuck @ 6pm Modern Brew - Kitchen, Coffee, Bar, 8221 S Holly St, Centennial

Community Holiday Sweater Party at Western Sky Bar & Taproom @ 7pm Western Sky Bar & Taproom, 4361 S BROADWAY, Englewood. westernsky barco@gmail.com

@ 12:15am Heather Gardens Clubhouse, 2888 S. Heather Gardens Way, Aurora

The best place to promote your events online and in print. Visit us @ https://littletonindependent.net/calendar

Mark Masters Comedy: Mark Masters on Comedy Saved The Video Star (South South Broadway Comedy Show) at Western Sky Bar & Taproom @ 8pm Western Sky Bar & Taproom, 4361 S Broadway, Englewood Calendar information is provided by event organiz‐ ers. All events are subject to change or cancella‐ tion. This publication is not responsible for the ac‐ curacy of the information contained in this calendar.

December 7, 2023De

More than politics for involved youth Teens build life skills in the YMCA’s Youth in Government program

To learn more about the YMCA of Metro Denver’s Youth in Government and other teen programs, visit denverymca.org/teen-programs.

BY BRYN WEBSTER SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

In late November, about 90 high schoolers from seven schools across Colorado gathered in Denver to lobby for and pass their own mock legislation. “Because of Youth in Government, not only has my knowledge of civics and the government system grown, but I have learned about how much more there is to our government than just politics,” said Dathan Montera, a particpant in the program. The YMCA of Metro Denver’s Youth in Government program reveals the real inner workings of the government, teaches key public speaking and advocacy skills and launches many participants into political- or law-related careers. The YMCA of Metro Denver has been building strong, thriving and equitable communities since 1875 and provides a wide variety of programs and resources for Denver families. It is a nonprofit organization positioned to help young adults rise through middle and high school with mentoring programs in a safe space where they can connect with fellow students. Its Youth in Government program is nearly 70 years old and has impacted generations of Coloradans. It is

modeled after the national YMCA Youth & Government program, and one of several programs the Denver Metro YMCA offers to engage teens and help them navigate their formative years. “The YIG program encourages students to share their thoughts and opinions on key topics like women’s rights and gender discussions at school in a space where they can debate on neutral ground,” said the YMCA Youth in Government State Director Marlana Krulish. “It gives them an opportunity to open up their thoughts and minds to new topics or things they may not have been aware of — the diversity of participating schools is a strength.” For several months this fall, the student delegates worked to draft mock legislation on topics of their choice through their school’s local program delegation and under the oversight of a local teacher or advisor. Then, for three days during the week of Thanksgiving, they participated in a model government experience. Students were assigned various roles as senators, representatives, judges, lobbyists and members of the media. On the first day, they considered their fellow delegates’ draft bills in smaller committees, while the lobbyist and media delegates persuaded and interviewed key

A previous year’s mock legislature. Generally, the students get to hold their mock legislature inside the Colorado Capitol, but this year, they had to relocate because of PHOTO COURTESY OF THE YMCA OF METRO DENVER the special session occurring at the same time.

representatives. The second day, bills that passed committee continued to full review and voting by the combined senate, house and judicial branches. The evening of the second day, delegates enjoyed their own Governor’s Ball and campaigned for the Youth in Government program’s eight presiding offices, including Speaker of the House and Senate Majority Leader, where those elected will serve the following year. Finally, bills passed on the second day were signed by the youth governor on the program’s last day. The delegates generally get to hold their second day inside the Capitol Building. But since Gov. Jared Polis

called a special session this year during Thanksgiving week, the students met instead at nearby Baptist Church of Denver and the State Services Building. The program demystifies the political process and teaches young people how to advocate for the changes they want to see. It also develops public speaking, leadership and advocacy skills. “It gets you comfortable with speaking out and speaking on things you believe – giving you a confidence boost to do better in school,” Montera said. “Youth SEE YMCA, P21

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Dathan Montera, a participant in the YMCA of Metro Denver’s Youth in Government program, stands next to a Colorado flag during this year’s mock legislature event. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE YMCA OF METRO DENVER

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Students with the YMCA of Metro Denver’s Youth in Government program during this year’s mock legislature event in Denver.

YMCA FROM PAGE 20

in Government showed me the purpose for all the rest of the things I was learning.” The program also opens the door to additional opportunities and career paths. Many participants have gone on to participate in national law and government-related programs, including the Conference on National Affairs. “The Conference on National Affairs was the greatest experience. It provided me with so many skills that I never would have developed so fast,” Montera said. “You have to develop leadership skills.”

Many former participants have also pursued careers that make a positive political impact. “All of those at my school who joined (my) year have gone into professional roles that involve working with the public or grassroots campaigning or law,” said former participant Ryan Tseng, who is now about to pass the bar exam and enter a career in constructionrelated litigation. “For those who are looking for something to help them far beyond their time in high school and are looking for ways to effect change, I think this is a great program.” Editor’s note: Bryn Webster represents the YMCA of Metro Denver in communications and media relations.

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December 7, 2023De

DADDY BRUCE

It’s important for people to know Daddy Bruce’s legacy and the story of his humanitarianism, Yanique said. “We’re getting a lot of new people in Denver, and not everybody knows about Daddy Bruce like they used to,” she said. When Daddy Bruce did it, he set up tables in the streets and served barbecue. Today, it is run as a Thanksgiving meal distribution. The nonprofit packs baskets with enough traditional Thanksgiving food items — turkey, green beans, gravy, bread, a dessert, etc. — to feed an entire family. That’s about the only thing that’s changed, Yanique said. Otherwise, it’s still like a community-oriented family reunion, she added. “That part of Daddy Bruce has lived on,” Yanique said. Denver native Joe Lopez has always wanted to volunteer for an event like the Denver Feed-A-Family in Honor of Daddy Bruce. This year, he was finally able to do so — and brought three of his family members, equaling three generations who came to volunteer this year. “It made my evening doing this with my kids and grandson,” Lopez said.

FROM PAGE 12

restaurant and became known for his barbecue. “He felt that on Thanksgiving, everyone should have a hot meal,” said Xiomara Yanique, who serves as The Epworth Foundation’s program director. So, in 1964, he set up in City Park and about 200 people gathered to eat barbecue for Thanksgiving, which Randolph provided for free. Everyone was welcome, and the gathering grew and grew every year, now located in Denver’s Cole neighborhood, Yanique said. Today, the event draws thousands of volunteers to help with its massive effort of feeding 5,000 families a Thanksgiving meal. “I’m feeding people and I’m helping people,” said Clarence Williams of Highlands Ranch who has been volunteering at the event for 18 years. “That’s what it’s all about.” Daddy Bruce died in 1994, but lasting recognition of his humanitarianism lives on in various ways. There is a school that bears his name. And the street where Daddy Bruce’s barbecue restaurant was once located is also named in his honor. In 2003, The Epworth Foundation, based out of the Epworth United Methodist Church at 1865 Bruce Randolph Ave., took over the Thanksgiving meals event.

Struggling for sustainability

Vaughn Nichols has been involved with The Epworth Foundation for roughly 20 years — and the Daddy Bruce Thanksgiving for about 25 — and currently serves on the foundation’s board of directors. He got to know Daddy Bruce Randolph sometime in the 1980s and they developed both a

professional and friendly relationship — Nichols is a banker, and Randolph was a customer at the bank he worked at and Nichols would often eat lunch at Randolph’s restaurant. People identify with a need around Thanksgiving, and many are familiar with the nonprofit’s meal distribution because of Daddy Bruce, so that event typically sees a big turnout of volunteers and donations, Nichols said. The foundation’s annual summertime golf tournament fundraiser is also successful in raising funds, Nichols said. But the nonprofit needs ways to get a steady flow of donations throughout the year to help it fund a variety of its community resources, Nichols said. Much of The Epworth Foundation’s programming is offered for free — or subsidized — to community members. “There’s a constant need for fundraising,” Nichols said. “You can only service what you have the money to serve.” Additionally, the foundation needs people who can bring new ideas to help with the nonprofit’s long-term sustainability. Not counting the Thanksgiving event, only about 50 people volunteer with the foundation on a regular basis. And the chair of the nine-member board is more than 80 years old, Nichols said. “While he won’t be replaced, we need people to pick up the puck,” Nichols said. “We need people who

have networks and fresh ideas for how to maintain the (foundation’s) mission.” Representing the foundation from afar Dandoo-Young didn’t know much about The Epworth Foundation until someone told her about it at the 2021 Spelman Sendoff event hosted by the Colorado chapter of the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College. She did her research on the nonprofit and learned that its values aligned closely with hers. “We share the same social values,” Dandoo-Young said. “I try to represent them whether I’m in Georgia or Colorado.” Dandoo-Young encourages everyone to look into the resources that The Epworth Foundation offers – particularly those who are in need and may not otherwise have access to such resources. “Colorado is blessed to have The Epworth Foundation,” Dandoo-Young said. “They ensure that they put action on the table.” All about community

The Epworth Foundation’s “big thing” is being able to wrap itself around the community and uplift it, said Yanique, the foundation’s program director. “It’s not just about an individual, it’s about community,” Yanique said. “A lot of the time, people don’t realize how important community is. But we can accomplish so much more together.”

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Solution

TRIVIA 1. MOVIES: Which Disney animated movie features the song “Whistle While You Work”? 2. GEOGRAPHY: Which two oceans are on Russia’s shores? 3. PSYCHOLOGY: What is the fear represented in the condition called euphobia? 4. TELEVISION: What is “The Simpsons” home address? 5. GAMES: How many dimples are on a golf ball? 6. ASTRONOMY: Earth’s place in the solar system is how many planets from the Sun? 7. LANGUAGE: What is the only country in South America whose official language is Dutch? 8. FOOD & DRINK: What is a sweetbread? 9. LITERATURE: In which century was “The Canterbury Tales” written? 10. SCIENCE: Who is considered the father of modern astronomy?

Answers 1. “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” 2. Arctic and Pacific. 3. Fear of good news. 4. 742 Evergreen Terrace. 5. Generally between 300-500. 6. Third. 7. Suriname. 8. Internal organs of a young animal. 9. Late 14th century. 10. Copernicus. (c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Crossword Solution

December 7, 2023

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December 7, 2023

Suspect indicted for alleged bomb threats A federal grand jury has indicted a suspect for allegedly making false bomb claims in public buildings in Parker.

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A federal grand jury has indicted a suspect for making false bomb claims in public buildings in Parker earlier this year. Through a coordinated effort between the Parker Police Department and the FBI, Matthew Cook was indicted on two counts of 18 U.S.C. § 1038(a) (1) for falsely conveying a bomb threat. Earlier this year, there were five bomb threats made to various buildings throughout the Town of Parker between June and September, according to Josh Hans, spokesperson for the

SHUTTERSTOCK

Parker Police Department. On June 1, Parker police responded to a bomb threat at a Safeway.

Another threat was made on July 26 at the Cottonwood King Soopers, followed by a threat on Aug. 17 at the

Parker Wal-Mart. There were two more threats in September. One at the Douglas County Library-Parker Branch on Sept. 14 and another at the Costco on Sept. 18. According to the press release announcing the indictment, allegedly Cook falsely claimed there was a bomb at the Cottonwood King Soopers and the Parker Wal-Mart. In a press release, the Parker Police Department thanked the community for their patience as authorities investigated the false bomb threats with the FBI’s assistance. At this time, it is unknown what led authorities to Cook.

www.ColoradoCommunityMedia.com/Notices

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 Legals City and County PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on December 12, 2023 beginning at 2:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, in the Commissioner’s Hearing Room, Philip S. Miller Building, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado, the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Douglas will conduct a public hearing concerning the proposed adoption of a resolution amending the 2023 adopted budget. Any interested elector of Douglas County may file an objection to the proposed amendment to the budget at any time prior to it’s final adoption by the Board of County Commissioners. A copy of said resolution may be obtained for inspection at the offices of the County Commissioners at the above address in Castle Rock, Colorado, or viewed on-line at www.douglas.co.us. Legal Notice No. 946454 First Publication: December 7, 2023 Last Publication: December 7, 2023 Publisher: Douglas County News-Press PUBLIC NOTICE REGARDING DOUGLAS COUNTY’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM’S 30-DAY PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD AND PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO THE 2015 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN, AS A PART OF THE 2014-2018 CONSOLIDATED PLAN The 2015 Annual Action Plan, as a part of the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan, are housing and community development plans for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

Program. A Substantial Amendment to the 2015 Annual Action Plan, as a part of the 2014-2018 Consolidated Plan, (“Substantial Amendment”) has been drafted to re-program $850,000 in Program Income funds collected in the Douglas County Housing Partnership (DCHP) Revolving Loan Fund (RLF), identified to be used for Down Payment Assistance. The $850,000 will be used to pay for land acquisition and associated costs to the RidgeGate Senior Apartments during the 2023 PY. The Substantial Amendment will meet the community needs and goals for housing and a suitable living environment for Douglas County. The 30-day comment period for the Substantial Amendments is December 7, 2023, through January 7, 2024. These documents are available online at www.douglas.co.us/community-services/grantslow-income-cdbg. Share your comments at an open house scheduled for January 3, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., in Conference Rooms A and B at 100 Third St. in Castle Rock. A public hearing will be held on January 9, 2024, at 2:30 p.m. by the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners in the Commissioners Hearing Room, at the same address, to consider the adoption of these Substantial Amendments and reallocate the funds. Interpreters or special needs accommodations can be provided with advance notice by contacting Melanie Grothe, Douglas County Department of Community Development, at 303-814-4326, mgrothe@douglas.co.us. Persons in need of information for the hearing impaired may call the TTY number at 303-663-7791. Legal Notice No. 946419 First Publication: December 7, 2023 Last Publication: December 7, 2023 Publisher: Douglas County News-Press

legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com

NOTICE OF CONTRACTORS SETTLEMENT COUNTY OF DOUGLAS STATE OF COLORADO NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Section 38-26-107, C.R.S., as amended, that on the 8th day of JANUARY 2024, final settlement will be made by the County of Douglas, State of Colorado, for and on account of a contract between Douglas County and H.W. HOUSTON CONSTRUCTION, LLC for the PRAIRIE CANYON RANCH BARN and SALOON REHABILITATION ~ REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) #010-22; and that any person, co-partnership, association or corporation that has an unpaid claim against said H.W. HOUSTON CONSTRUCTION, LLC for or on account for the furnishing of labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender or other supplies used or consumed by such contractor or any subcontractors in or about the performance of said work, or that supplied rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used in the prosecution of said work, may at any time up to and including said time of such final settlement on said 8th day of JANUARY 2024, to file a verified statement of the amount due and unpaid on account of such claim with the Douglas County Government, Board of County Commissioners, c/o Department of Community Development, 100 Third Street, Castle Rock, Colorado 80104. Failure on the part of the claimant to file such statement prior to such final settlement will relieve said County of Douglas from all and any liability for such claimant’s claim. The Board of Douglas County Commissioners of the County of Douglas, Colorado, By: Carolyn S. Riggs, CPPB, Purchasing Supervisor, Douglas County Government. Legal Notice No. 946468 First Publication: December 7, 2023 Last Publication: December 14, 2023 Publisher: Douglas County News-Press ______________________________________

Bids and Settlements

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF CONTRACTORS SETTLEMENT COUNTY OF DOUGLAS

STATE OF COLORADO NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Section 38-26-107, C.R.S., as amended, that on January 7, 2024, final settlement will be made by the County of Douglas, State of Colorado, for and on account of a contract between Douglas County and Chato’s Concrete, LLC, for the 2023 Sidewalk Repair and Curb Ramp Retrofit Project, Douglas County Project Number CI 2023-001, in Douglas County; and that any person, copartnership, association or corporation that has an unpaid claim against said Chato’s Concrete, LLC for or on account of the furnishing of labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender or other supplies used or consumed by such contractor or any of his subcontractors in or about the performance of said work, or that supplied rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used in the prosecution of said work, may at any time up to and including said time of such final settlement on said 01/07/2024, file a verified statement of the amount due and unpaid on account of such claim with the Board of County Commissioners, c/o Director of Public Works Engineering, with a copy to the Project Manager, Keith Burke or Brian Schultz, Department of Public Works Engineering Division, Philip S. Miller Building, 100 Third Street, Suite 220, Castle Rock, CO 80104. Failure on the part of the claimant to file such statement before such final settlement will relieve said County of Douglas from all and any liability for such claimant’s claim. The Board of Douglas County Commissioners of the County of Douglas, Colorado, By: Janet Herman, P.E., Director of Public Works. Legal Notice NO. 946479 First Publication: December 7, 2023 Second Publication: December 14, 2023 Publisher: Douglas County News Press Account Number: 2734 ______________________________________ PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF CONTRACTORS SETTLEMENT

COUNTY OF DOUGLAS STATE OF COLORADO NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Section 38-26-107, C.R.S., as amended, that on January 7, 2024, final settlement will be made by the County of Douglas, State of Colorado, for and on account of a contract between Douglas County and Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. for the 2023 Asphalt Overlay Project, Douglas County Project Number CI 2023-003, in Douglas County; and that any person, co-partnership, association or corporation that has an unpaid claim against said Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. for or on account of the furnishing of labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provisions, provender or other supplies used or consumed by such contractor or any of his subcontractors in or about the performance of said work, or that supplied rental machinery, tools, or equipment to the extent used in the prosecution of said work, may at any time up to and including said time of such final settlement on said 01/07/2024, file a verified statement of the amount due and unpaid on account of such claim with the Board of County Commissioners, c/o Director of Public Works Engineering, with a copy to the Project Engineer, Keith Burke or Brian Schultz, Department of Public Works Engineering Division, Philip S. Miller Building, 100 Third Street, Suite 220, Castle Rock, CO 80104. Failure on the part of the claimant to file such statement before such final settlement will relieve said County of Douglas from all and any liability for such claimant’s claim. The Board of Douglas County Commissioners of the County of Douglas, Colorado, By: Janet Herman, P.E., Director of Public Works. Legal Notice NO. 946478 First Publication: December 7, 2023 Second Publication: December 14, 2023 Publisher: Douglas County News Press Account Number: 2734

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Highlands Ranch Legals December 7, 2023 * 1

December 7, 2023De

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