Parker Chronicle 092823

Residents speak out against school district funding questions

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

When Larkspur resident Jim Maras receives his ballot this election season, he’ll be voting against the Douglas County School District’s ask for a $66 million mill levy override and $484 million bond for a variety of reasons.

A large contributing factor for Maras is that he doesn’t believe the district is scally responsible. Maras, whose children graduated

from Douglas County schools, volunteered on the district’s Financial Oversight Committee, the Mill Bond Oversight Committee and the Mill Bond Exploratory Committee from 2018 to this year.

He said he voted for the 2018 bond and mill levy override, the last time the district passed a bond and mill levy override, but has since disagreed with how that funding was spent and managed.

“ ey were buying laptop computers, o ce furniture, all kinds of

stu that will never last 20 years,” Maras said. “If they were doing building repairs that stu would be around. So going back to that, I got disenfranchised with the district.”

According to polling from the school district, Maras is not alone in his opposition to the funding questions. In April, 43% of the voters polled opposed the bond, which would be used to build new schools and maintain buildings, and 41%

Douglas County School District Superintendent Erin Kane has traveled Douglas County, along with members of the school board, seeking support for funding measures. However, the road ahead is long in changing some minds. COURTESY DOUGLAS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Douglas County water board applicant names emerge

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

One of the names in the spotlight among those who could serve on a new arm of Douglas County’s government appeared to have a path to being appointed now that county o cials have publicly discussed the names of the applicants they previously refused to release.

e new government body, the Douglas County Water Commission, will help the county’s elected leaders shape the future of water supply, a pressing question in a county that is expected to keep growing.

e new entity is expected to help create a plan regarding water supply and conservation, among other aspects of water in the county. It will consist of unpaid volunteers and George Teal, one of the county’s elected leaders.

e forming of the new body comes against the backdrop of a controversial proposal to pump about 22,000 acre-feet of water per year to Douglas County from the San Luis Valley, a region of South-

ern Colorado.

An acre-foot is the equivalent of a one-foot-deep pool about the size of a football eld.

Renewable Water Resources, or RWR, is the private company that proposed the project.

Last year, elected leaders Abe Laydon joined Lora omas in opting out of the project, while Teal has continued to support it.

“Everything’s on the table as far as

I’m concerned,” Teal told Colorado Community Media in early August. “We get another ve or six years of rainy summers, OK, maybe then we can start to be picky and choosy.”

Sean Tonner, one of the principals of RWR, attracted media attention for throwing his hat in the ring to serve on the water commission.

In a Sept. 19 meeting of county o cials, Laydon and Teal expressed support for appointing Tonner.

Teal had previously given Colorado Community Media Tonner’s name regarding applications to serve on the water commission, but the county would not con rm names of dozens of other applicants.

In August, county o cials had maintained that the names would be kept private. Colorado Community Media had led a public-records request for the names, but the county’s response said the names would not be released unless county o cials decided to do so.

Later, Teal publicly announced his preferences in a mid-September meeting. Laydon, Teal and omas then discussed preferences further in the Sept. 19 meeting.

Long list of applicants

A total of 49 people have applied to serve on the water commission, according to county o cials as of Sept. 19. Many are current or former public o cials, including some who serve on local water providers like theParker Water District.

e county asked for applications by Aug. 11 but later waived that deadline.

e three county leaders plan to appoint three members per each “district,” or area, of the county,

along with two selected “at large,” meaning from the county as a whole.

ey also plan to appoint “alternates” who can serve if a regular member is unavailable.

On top of that, the county plans to appoint a “technical advisory committee” of those with water expertise to help the water commission do its job.

e applicants who garnered some support from at least one county leader at the Sept. 19 meeting included the following. is list includes information about some applicants, generally based on how the county leaders described them.

District I

From District I, or northeast Douglas County:

• Merlin Klotz, who served as the county’s clerk and recorder, or top election o cial, and is a Parker Water and Sanitation District board member

• James Myers

• Donald Langley, who also serves on the Parker Water board and was listed as a possible technical advisory committee, or TAC, member

• James Eklund, listed as a possible TAC or at-large member

• Hal Pranger (county leaders said they need to con rm his interest in serving)

• William Wasserman

District II

From District II, including central and south Douglas County:

• Clark Hammelman

• James Maras, a Perry Park Water and Sanitation District board member

• Roger Hudson, a Castle Pines city councilmember

• Max Brooks, a Castle Rock town councilmember, listed as a possible alternate

• Randy Reed, a former Castle Rock town councilmember and mayor, as a possible alternate

• Mike Freemire as a potential alternate

District III

From District III, or northwest Douglas County:

• Frank Johns

• Evan Ela

• Scott Ludwig

From left, Douglas County Commissioners George Teal, Chairman Abe Laydon and Lora Thomas. FILE PHOTO

Rural EMS agencies struggle

Larger departments o er better pay, resources amid workforce shortage

BY GANNON ROTHMAN SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Adam Erway is a fourth-generation re ghter and EMT working in two re departments in Elbert County — as a part-time sta employee with Elizabeth and as a volunteer in Kiowa.

e job comes with its challenges, especially in rural Colorado where lower salaries steer many applicants away.

e problem results in rural re agencies like those in Elbert County getting fewer volunteers and sta to ll jobs, while call volume grows. e problem is happening nationwide.

“Our issue is just not being able to compete with larger agencies in compensation,” Erway said. “Because the re services and EMS across the country are so competitive, it’s hard to get people out in our rural departments for any length of time.”

A re ghter and paramedic for the Elizabeth Fire Department starts o with an annual salary just above $66,000. In Kiowa, it’s around $50,000 per year. A larger department like South Metro Fire can o er more than $75,000 per year for a paramedic.

“We rely on a young sta here. ey come on and work with us and volunteer,” Erway said. “ en they realize they enjoy the job and want to make good money … we don’t get to keep them very long.”

Gerry Lamansky, the chief of the Kiowa Fire Protection Agency, agrees there’s a personnel issue.

“Unfortunately with today’s economic climate, people are working two or three jobs and they don’t have time to volunteer,” Lamansky said.

Funding and workforce shortages

A 2022 law required the Colorado Department of Public Health

and Environment to establish the Emergency Medical Services System Sustainability Task Force to evaluate services statewide and also recommend new standards for EMS. e 20-member group, combined with lawmakers and EMS professionals, issues reports and recommendations for ground and air ambulance services to better sustain equitable access, sta ng and sustainable funding.

A report published by the task force in September found many EMS agencies in Colorado are working on insu cient funding combined with low wages and a decrease of volunteerism. ese issues are most pronounced in rural communities, according to the report. e report marks the beginning of a ve-phase, ve-year project set out by the Ambulance Service Sustainability and State Licensing bill signed by Governor Polis last year. e plan provides a roadmap and the start of recommendations to ensure adequate funding for statewide licensing of ambulance services. Ambulances and EMS agencies are funded in a variety of ways. e sole source of funding for re departments in Elizabeth and Kiowa is property taxes. But when local residents begin pushing for a tax-rate decrease on the ballot, Elizabeth re chief TJ Steck said it a ects local districts the most.

Steck also added that the Elizabeth Fire Department has actively gone to the state capitol to look at other options for funding, although he said he’s not very optimistic. at’s when getting more volunteers and sta really matters, but it’s hard, especially in rural communities.

“I think in ve years we’re going to be in crisis mode in volunteerism,” Steck said, adding to the potential of a diminished department if no assistance takes place.

Ambulance services

Emergency medical services vary in how they operate from county to county. Colorado is the only state in the country without centralized oversight of ground ambulance

Since there is no state law that requires counties to actually provide ambulance services, it is just an option for re districts. ey are only required to provide re protection, but most agencies provide ambulance services anyway.

e type of care that is given also varies throughout Elbert County.

Only Kiowa, Elizabeth, Rattlesnake and Agate are advanced life support, or ALS, while other agencies in the county can provide just basic life support, or BLS, which makes a big di erence in the type of medical care they can give.

In some cases when there are not enough ambulances, agencies nearby either have to help cover additional square miles or lend EMS vehicles due to not having

enough ambulances.

A few weeks ago, Kiowa Fire Protection Agency had three calls drop within three hours. While their only two ambulances were en route to a hospital in Parker, another ambulance was borrowed from the Elizabeth Fire Department.

Informing the public

e Kiowa and Elizabeth re departments often put on community events in their towns to inform the public where and try to get more sta and volunteers.

“ e (Kiowa) Fire District relies on us getting out there as a nonpro t and really educating the community and being involved so we can go to sleep easy at night knowing that at least they know the challenges we might face,” Erway said on the continuous e ort to inform the public when votes and other decisions are made. “We all face very similar challenges.”

Have late-season gardening questions?

Reach out to your Douglas County Master Gardenersthey are ready and waiting to help seven days a week. Send your questions to dcmgardenr@gmail.com or learn more by visiting douglas.extension.colostate. edu/horticulture/master-gardener/

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 six local grocery store MVExpress kiosk locations. Find information at DouglasDrives.com

This Suicide Prevention Month, the 988Lifeline is here to support you. No matter what you are going through, the trained crisis counselors of 988 can help. Call or text 988. Your

Be among the first to receive news as it happens. Sign up by visiting douglas.co.us and searching for subscribe now Select your news focus and delivery preferences. You can unsubscribe at any time. Don’t wait, sign up now!

Day spa is hub for seven businesses

BY COURTNEY FAY SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

When it comes to self-care, nothing tops a full spa experience. Your next relaxing spa day doesn’t need to take you far from home.

Just Peachy Day Spa is located at 320 Comanche St. in Kiowa and opened in December 2022. e spa is comprised of seven independent contractors, plus the building’s owner, each specializing in a different area of wellness and beauty. is unique enterprise allows for a wide scope of professional services to be provided in one single location.

• e Dollhouse Salon, operated by Lindsey Kitch, o ers women’s haircuts, colors, hair tinsel and deep/scalp conditioning treatments. Lindsey o ers hair-care

Get spoiled in Kiowa

products from J Beverly Hills.

• Hair by Mel, operated by Melanie Risinger, o ers cuts and color for both men and women as well as pedicures, hair tinsel and deep/ scalp conditioning treatments. Melanie o ers hair-care products from Redken and Biolage.

• Caitlin’s Clinic, operated by Caitlin Mulnix, provides massage therapy services.

• Balanced Body and Stone, operated by Lucy Brungart, also o ers massage therapy services.

• Elevated Wellness is operated by Ti any Norris, who is a nurse practitioner providing a range of health services including physicals, IV treatments, bloodwork and Botox for the treatment of migraines.

• Brandiwine Nails is operated by nail technician Brandi Armijo. Brandi is the newest contractor to join the spa, providing her expertise and further enhancing the range of services to enjoy at the

spa.

• Ashsthetics is operated by esthetician Ashley Sandoval o ering a range of services including facials (60 or 90 minutes), micro needling, waxing and dermaplaning. Sauna and tanning services are also available, making the spa truly a one-stop shop for pampering and relaxation.

Lindsey Kitch of Dollhouse Salon says “not a lot of people know we are here and they’re ecstatic when they nd out. Clients are thrilled to have all of this close to home because there really isn’t anything within 30 minutes of Kiowa or Elizabeth.”

For Kitch, the best part of her day is getting to be the rst to see her client’s reaction to her work. She says, “I love that I get to witness my client’s faces light up when they rst glance in the mirror at their new hair.”

is dedication to client experience is precisely what Just Peachy

Day Spa strives to provide. Clients will enjoy a personalized, relaxing experience and improve their health and a con dence boost.

Elbert County residents are not the only ones loving these topquality spa services. “Caitlin is a massage therapist for both NFL and NHL players,” Kitch adds, “ ey drive all the way to Kiowa to see her, she’s that good! All the girls here are wonderful, we all love what we do and I feel like we all really try to connect with our clients each time. e experience they have when they walk in our door is really important to all of us.” e spa currently has a 5-star rating on Google.

e full menu of available services as well as pricing information can be found online at justpeachydayspa.com. To book an appointment, clients are asked to call the number listed for the service they want. Generally, the spa is open from 10 am-2 pm.

Join us Saturday, October 7 for unlimited tastings of fine wines with food and fun in a one-of-a-kind setting featuring exotic cars at Vehicle Vault.

$65 General Admission 4-7 pm

$125 VIP Exclusive Access 2-4 pm

$25 Designated Driver (no alcohol)

Proceeds support charitable programs of the nonprofit Rotary Club of Parker Foundation.

Tickets available at: www.parkeruncorked.org

GUEST SPEAKER Simone FM Spinner

Council aprpoves updates to municipal code for clarification

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

During a recent meeting, the Parker City Council voted to amend a subsection of the Parker Municipal Code concerning dedication statements.

is will update the required subdivision plat dedication statement with language about the location of utility easements, which aims to develop a more comprehensive and clear.

e purpose of this amendment is to further clarify utility related de nitions as well as update the standards for the location of easements that serve a commercial use and provide guidance about utility design for the properties with multiple street fronts.

According to a document provid-

ed to the town, the amended dedication statement will break down the current language into categories such as easements, right-of-way and sight triangles.

“Sidewalk maintenance is not

addressed in the dedication statement because it is addressed in the municipal code and by policy,” said Bryce Matthews, of community development. “And that allows for exibility for that to change over time.”

In response to a request from CORE and Xcel, the dedication statement will also add utility easement language as there is none.

e other approved subsection of the municipal code is concerning utilities.

e amendment will add:

• A de nition of On-Site Utilities and Equipment.

• Standards for the local of equipment and easements with commercial and light industrial development.

• Standards for properties with multiple street front where utilities

may be under sidewalks and adjacent to roads/streets.

• A clear allowance for improvements as well as connections to existing lines for multiple developments.

• Provide additional options for the location of equipment with residential development.

e additional options would include allowing underground equipment to be located within the sidewalk and require easements adjacent to the front yard, located within pocket easements along the front yard and where there are easements in tracts used for open space, landscape bu ers and parks.

In other business, due to a bonding issue, the council approved a contract with Sabell’s Civil and Landscape, LLC for the O’Brien Park Streetscape Project in October.

REVERSE MORTGAGES MADE EASY

Town of Parker councilmembers Joshua Rivero on the left and Anne Barrington on the right, listening to a presentation.

PHOTO BY HALEY LENA

Marshall seeks $103K in legal fees from school district

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e Douglas County School Board is scheduled to be back in court on Oct. 6 for a hearing to decide how much in legal fees the district will pay after a judge found school board members broke Colorado Open Meetings Law.

In June, Douglas County District Court Judge Je rey Holmes ruled school board members Becky Myers, Mike Peterson, Christie Williams and Kaylee Winegar broke open meetings law by having a series of private oneon-one conversations about ring

former superintendent Corey Wise.  State Rep. Bob Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch, who led the lawsuit against the district in February 2022, is seeking over $103,000 in attorneys fees and court costs, which he’s entitled to under Sunshine Laws.  Since Holmes ruled that the board members acted illegally, the district is obligated to pay Marshall’s attorneys fees and court costs. However, the district can argue before a judge that the fees Marshall is seeking are unreasonable, which it plans to do at the Oct. 6 hearing.

Records requested by Colorado Community Media show that the district has paid $156,400 for its legal costs between March 11, 2022 and August 10, 2023 to defend the lawsuit. In a ling ahead of the hearing, Marshall’s attorney, Steve Zansberg,

argues his hourly fee, which was $450 in 2022 and $465 in 2023, is competitive at the market level, making the request reasonable.

“ ese hourly rates are substantially lower than the usual and customary rates charged by attorneys of comparable experience in this legal marketplace for providing similar services,” Zansberg says in the ling.

Zansberg said in the ling that the district’s attorney, Geo Blue, of the law rmlaw rm Gessler Blue, regularly charges $450 per hour. Gessler Blue is charging Douglas County School District a discounted rate of $225 per hour.

If the judge rules that Marshall’s request is reasonable, the total amount the district will owe will increase to include costs related to the Oct. 6 hearing.

The Douglas County School Doard is due back in court on Oct. 6 as the legal process sets out to determine what legal fees the district will pay for violating transparency law. PHOTO COURTESY DOUGLAS COUNTY

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opposed the mill levy override, which would go to increasing salaries for teachers and sta .

In regards to the bond, Maras said he doesn’t support building new schools when the district has buildings that are below capacity.

“I get that it would be really nice to have neighborhood elementary schools, but my opinion is that time has passed because the schools are getting so expensive to build and maintain and they’ve got all these other buildings that are underutilized,” he said.

Maras said he supports paying teachers more, but thinks the district should nd ways to do so within the existing budget, such as drawing on the district’s $70 million reserves or making budget cuts to other areas. He added that the district should have asked voters for a more modest amount.

“I can’t nd where there’s ever been any (budget) cuts,” Maras said. “It’s not being run like a business, it’s being run like a bureaucracy that wants to create empires and not do what’s best for taxpayers.”

Similarly, Robert Hampton, a Roxborough resident and former bus driver for the school district, said he thinks the district needs to consider budget cuts to prioritize teacher pay. He disagrees with the school district

asking taxpayers for more funding amid high in ation and increased property taxes.

“Get rid of the diversity, equity and inclusion specialists and take a look at the number of non-instructional personnel,” he said. “If you want to pay the teachers more, pay them more, and then let’s look at what’s leftover.”

Hampton also thinks that passing bonds on a regular basis is “absolutely wasteful” and doesn’t feel he’s getting a return on his investment in the public schools.

ough Douglas County’s recent test scores were better than the state average and most other districts, Hampton doesn’t trust the scores to re ect accurately on the schools.

“It’s like saying ‘we’re all failing, but some of us less than others,’” he said.  Both Hampton and Maras said the district is “manufacturing a crisis,” such as by cutting bus routes, to get the funding.

Douglas County School District was short over 100 bus drivers at the beginning of the school year and the district implemented rolling cancellations.

Up until Sept. 14, Highlands Ranch resident Jenny Brady wasn’t planning to vote for the bond or mill levy override. Brady’s children don’t go to school in the district and, as a stay-athome mom, she is concerned about the increased taxes impacting her family’s budget. However, Brady said she is now undecided on the funding questions after attending a debate on the bond

and mill levy override hosted by the Douglas County GOP.

“For me to go from a ‘no’ to ‘undecided’ shocked me,” Brady said. “I wanted (the opposition) to prove to me that there was money available to fund the underfunded things and I didn’t see that.”

Brady said she would like to see the state increase school funding and make the funding formula less complex, but added that she sees that the district is in “desperate need” of local dollars too.

She said that the district’s recent test scores and the school board’s policy changes regarding parents rights also restored her trust in the school district.

“I trust (school board member) Mike Peterson’s conservative values and how he’s improved parent-teacher partnerships,” she said. “I’m now at the point where I trust this board to implement conservative scal policies.”

Brady remains undecided largely because of the potential costs, but she said she will continue to seek out as much information as possible before making her decision.

“I’m a coach in the community, so I care about all of the kids on my teams, I care about thecare the kids in my neighborhood, I care about my babysitters who attend local schools, I care about my community,” Brady said. “I don’t want our kids to not have the opportunities to do band, extracurriculars or sports, and I want the best teachers to stay around.”

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Vendors needed for annual Trunk or Treat

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

With nearly 1,500 joining last year, it’s time to put on your best spooky fashion and costumes as the Town of Parker’s Trunk Or Treat o Mainstreet is back.

Families can kick o the holiday season with music, enjoy entertainment and trick or treating in a safe place.

Families can also donate to local nonpro ts that serve the community.

“ is is a wonderful opportunity to get in front of hundreds of parents and give back to thousands of kids in our community in a safe, fun and hometown event,” said Ashley Nagy, vice chair of the Downtown Business Alliance.

Presented by the Downtown Business Alliance, they are opening the event to nearly 2,000 kids and 100 vendors. e event will take place on Oct. 28 in the parking lot behind Parker Station and near Parker Montessori, on east Maintreet and

Victorian Drive.

For one hour, starting at 1 p.m., the event will feature a sensory sensitive Trunk or Treat hour to be inclusive to all children. en, from 2 to 6 p.m. all participants can join in the fun.

e Downtown Business Alliance would like to allow for an enjoyable experience, therefore, the event features a time entry system.

Admission is free, however, all participants must register to enter. Registration for the event opens the week of Sep. 25 on the Downtown Business Alliance website.

Local businesses are able to register to become a vendor at the event. According to a press release from the Denver Business Alliance, vendors are needed to ll 100 spots. Each vendor provides their own handouts such as candy, goodybags and treats.

Nagy said they currently have 40 vendors and are looking to ll 60 more spots.

Vendor registration for the event can be found on the business alli-

ance website at https://downtownparker.com/TrunkorTreat/.

Additionally, the event is sponsored by Parker Party America and CORE Electrics and have partnered with the Parker Task Force and the Be the Good Ones nonprofits.

Families can make monetary or food donations from the Parker Task Force’s October needs list of non-perishable items to help the nonpro t restock their food bank shelves. e list includes items like granola bars, pasta sauce and toiletries.

With a goal of helping 100 local families this year, Be the Good Ones is collecting money for its Holiday Adopt-A-Family campaign. Every dollar donated to the campaign will go to purchase both needs and wishes for families in the community.

Other Trunk or Treat o Mainstreet sponsors are e Local, 20 Mile Central, Wilks Real Estate, Fika Co eehouse, Chicago Title and Parker Station.

DOUGLAS COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATES

WHEN: Friday, October 13

TIME: 4 pm – 5:30 pm

LOCATION: Lone Tree Library - 10055 Library Wy, Lone Tree

ASK THE CANDIDATES: Do you have a question you want us to ask the candidates? Send them to us ahead of the event.

Send to South Metro Editor Thelma Grimes at tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Kilwins Chocolate and Ice Cream decorated vendor at last year’s Trunk or Treat o Mainstreet event.

COURTESY OF MICHELLE TRIPP

What does ageism have to do with aging?

Having worked as a career coach for many years, I know that nding a good job is always a challenge even in the best of times. And, for older adults it can be a bit more di cult. Given support, older adults can successfully nd employment. ere is help available for older adults as well as people of all ages from Arapahoe/Douglas Works! in Castle Rock.

Seniors’ Council of Douglas County will host Lori Brown, facilitator/career advisor, with e Generations@Work Program, Arapahoe/Douglas Works! on ursday, Nov. 2 at the Douglas County Miller Building, Conference Rooms A&B, 100 ird St., Castle Rock, from 10-11:30 am.

APPLICANTS

• Christopher Fellows

• William “Mickey” Conway

• Andrea Cole, general manager of Dominion Water and Sanitation District, whom some but not all county leaders suggested for the TAC; omas said she wanted Cole for the water commission rather than the TAC

• John Kim, who Teal says holds a seat on the “Ravenna water board”

• David Simonson

Others in running

From the list of those in consideration in general, at least some of whom may possibly be selected at large:

LIVING AND AGING WELL

Brown will discuss “What Does Ageism Have to Do With Aging?”

Ageism is based on cultural myths about the process and meaning of aging. Her presentation will explore myth-busting research that challenges these long-held beliefs and explores our potential to change the lived experience of growing older. She will present ageist myths, recent scienti c research, and provide an overview of the Generations Program, which is designed for older adults.

Jean Spahr

Ageist stereotypes link aging to depression, dementia and dependence, reinforcing the myth that growing older means having little to contribute to the active world of younger people. But over the last 20 years, scienti c research has compiled a di erent picture of the aging process, according to Brown. Brain research reveals that we continue to develop new abilities and strengthen skills as we age. Statistically, people are more likely to be happy after the age of 50. Advances in medicine and nutrition have changed the aging landscape.

When it comes to aging, separating myth from reality is important. During a job search, the older adult who is con dent and unapologetic about age will make a

positive impression when interviewing.

e Generations@Work Program services include assessment of skills, referral to training options, resume critiques, connections to networking opportunities and more.

Jean Spahr serves on the executive board as publications chair for the Seniors’ Council of Douglas County. e mission of Seniors’ Council is to advocate for, educate and engage older adults. ose who care for older adults are also served. Meetings are free and open to the public. For up-to-date information about Seniors’ Council of Douglas County visit Facebook and our website at www.douglas.co.us — search for Seniors’ Council.

• Sean Tonner

• Tricia Bernhard

• Malcolm Biddel

• Harold Smethills, a member of the Dominion Water and Sanitation District board

• Craig Broughton

• Pete Smith, but Teal and Laydon later expressed desire to remove Smith

• Kurt Walker

• Kim Haarberg

• James Yates

• Edward Adkins, listed as a possible TAC member

• Dean Lewis

• William omas

Process unfolds

Laydon said he wants to hold o identifying potential alternates until he has the opportunity to speak to them.

“Let’s come prepared next week” to whittle the list down further, Laydon said.

ose who join the water commission may include local elected o cials, those with experience on water district or metro district boards; others with management oversight or with a professional background in water; and at least one representative who can serve as the “voice of rural Douglas County,” according to a county news release.

Metro districts are a type of government entity that carries out some government functions, such as the Highlands Ranch Metro District that oversees some services in that community.

e county’s water commission was expected to commence in the third quarter of this year and meet

six to eight times during the rst 12 months with the focus of developing a Douglas County Water Plan. e county had envisioned that the water commission will integrate existing water provider plans into the Douglas County Water Plan.

Colorado Community Media had also led a public-records request in August for all of the applications from those who have applied to serve on the water commission. e county did not release the applications, saying in response to the request: “Once the Board of County Commissioners has formally selected Water Commission nalists we will release all of the applications per 24-72-204(3) (a)(XI), CRS,” referring to Colorado Revised Statutes, asserting that state law supports that policy.

Thu 10/05

Kids' Zone Parent/Child: Goblin Giggles (18mos-3yrs) F23/W24 @ 3pm

Oct 5th - Oct 26th

Parker Recreation Center, 17301 E Lincoln Ave., Parker

Sat 10/07

Ryan Hutchens at Burning Ham @ 4pm Yetman Family Farm, Lakewood

Jessie Murph @ 7pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 South Broadway, Englewood

Tue 10/10

Don McLean @ 6pm

Pace Center, Pikes Peak Avenue, Parker

Fri 10/06

Blue Canyon Boys @ 5pm

McAwesome Ranch, 3039 Haystack Rd, Castle Rock

Drowning Pool @ 7pm

KennyHoopla Live @ Gothic Theathre (Denver, CO) @ 6pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood

A Place For Owls w/ mlady + James Barrett + A Mouthful of Thunder @ 6pm

Moe's Original BBQ, 3295 S Broadway, Englewood

Sun 10/08

Wild Goose Saloon, 11160 S. Pikes Peak Drive, Parker Celebration at the Ranch @ 11am / $5

Promise Ranch Therapies and Recreation, 11892 Hilltop Rd, Parker. karli@adamscamp.org, 303-563-8290

Wed 10/11

Mothica @ 6pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood

You Me At Six @ 6pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

Zac Brown Band - VIP Upgrades @ 5pm

Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Englewood

Thunderstorm Artis @ 6pm

Fiddlers Green Amphitheater, 6501 S Fiddlers Green Cir, Green‐wood Village

Maddy Smith: (7:30 PM)

Comedy Works South @ 6:30pm

Comedy Works South, 5345 Land‐mark Pl, Greenwood Village

Thu 10/12 Calendar

Gaining invaluable insight

Since becoming the south metro editor for Colorado Community Media, I do not get out into the communities as much as I’d like. In fact, it feels like my desk is where I am permanently attached some weeks. However, once in a while a story catches my attention that I want to write myself. It takes me back to those glory days as a journalist covering a variety of topics and loving it.

FROM THE EDITOR

hat or T-shirt is not about getting recognition from the general public, but instead, about nding others who served in the war and knowing that they are the ones who understand.

I bought my dad a Vietnam veteran hat from a guy on the side of the road selling merchandise out of a truck. When I gave it to him I was surprised by his excitement. I was also surprised at how often he wears it.

Interviewing Gary gave me that insight. Now I also understand why my dad seems to feel more comfortable and at ease when we are at the VA. He is with others who understand.

One of those stories came up last week. I was invited to talk to the new veteran services o cer hired by Dougals County. e grant-funded position will provide one-on-one services to our veterans, with a focus on mental health.

is covered two areas I am particularly passionate about — veterans and mental health.

I drove to Castle Rock and met with Gary Weston, who had an impact on me beyond just writing a story that will come out next week. He gave me a bit more insight into understanding my dad.

I have written here several times about my close relationship with my dad. I am proud that he is a Vietnam veteran but could never understand what happened there.

What Gary gave me in this interview was a true blessing. You see, he talked about a veteran wearing a hat or T-shirt that says where they served. In his case — in my father’s case — it says “Vietnam veteran.”

Gary explained that the war in Vietnam was like no other our country has ever fought, and that the way it a ected our soldiers cannot be understood by anyone other than the veterans who were there. He explains that wearing a

Gary talked about the need for family and spouses to try and understand what a veteran who fought in a war is going through. I believe we should try to be supportive, but in listening to him, I am not sure we can ever truly understand.

My dad rarely talks about what happened to him at a young age in the jungles of Vietnam.

I am glad he is one of the lucky ones who seems to have dealt with it in his own ways and does not have it impacting his life. However, our soldiers coming home from war, especially Vietnam, were often told to bury the past and move on. ey weren’t allowed to share what they were going through and they could not dare talk about mental health.

I hope that people like Gary continue to be hired by counties to serve our men and women who served. I hope they help them through the bad days into nding better weeks, months and years.

For me, I just thank Gary for the insight he gave me last week. When I see my dad with that hat — I now know it means it means more than making some statement that he served.

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

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Commissioners’ foolishness e county commissioners’ ofce and role is to be “responsible under state statute for the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens.” I have had enough of the antics and games being played by the commissioners. It is taking away their credibility as a sound organization. Constant reprimands to Lora omas should not be the role of Commissioners Laydon and Teal. How did we even get to this point? It is shameful and shows a great deal of dysfunction. Why did Laydon and Teal use county funds to investigage omas and then ask her to pay her own personal money to counter the o ense for legal fees?

If you say you are going to pay back the funds for Harvard training then do so, Mr. Laydon.

Commissioner omas needs to be able to do her job, give her the access to the credit card instead of basically again asking her to use personal money. It’s time for a ve-person commissioner board or have a full-time mediator in place because this isn’t working any-

more. I think the people Douglas County have had enough of this.

Kyra Storojev Parker

Commissioners cause dismay e three-member board of Douglas county commissioners once again is in the news over in ghting between themselves. It is embarrassing and dysfunctional. What county business is actually getting done? County funds are being spent on lawyers’ fees instead of for the taxpayers’ needs.

Lora omas has once again stirred the pot against Abe Laydon and George Teal. Why won’t she just rubber-stamp all decisions made by these two men like a good little woman? e men always know what is best. is is what constantly seems to be coming out of commissioners’ meetings.

Douglas County has grown dramatically in the last decade. We should increase the commissioners to ve. And instead of career politicians being on the board as

Thelma Grimes

Developing a healthy self-image in our family

As parents, one of our most important jobs is to help our children develop a strong sense of self-worth and a healthy self-image. is lays the foundation for them to grow into condent, capable adults who feel good about themselves and can build fullling relationships at home, at work, and within their social circles. Living in an uncertain world is a breeding ground for a lack of con dence. It’s our job as parents, relatives and friends of the family to do what we can to help instill that con dence in those that will one day be responsible for their own success and the success of their families.

Being a parent, grandparent and uncle both by blood and by friendship, and through the wise counsel of many mentors and subject matter experts, here are some tips for nurturing healthy self-esteem within your family:

Model self-acceptance. Children pick up on our attitudes and the way we talk about ourselves. is is important because when, not if, we face adversity and challenges that try our resolve, how we respond will be on display for those watching. Avoid putting yourself down or xating on imperfections. Instead, model self-compassion and point out your own positive qualities. is shows kids it’s OK to be excellent and not perfect. None of us are perfect,

LETTERS

in the case of Ms. omas or career land developers Mr. Laydon and Mr. Teal we should open the county to others with great concern for our county. Individuals with re/safety experience, water/irrigation expertise, transportation knowledge and even longtime ranchers and farmers comes to mind.

e new 190 condo/80 townhome development by Lokal Homes in Lone Tree is a prime example of development over county safety, water use and increased tra c issues by our county commissioners. ough the FAA strongly opposes the new development, the City of Lone Tree approved this hazard. Douglas County had to approve it before being approved by Lone Tree. Why?

WINNING WORDS

and neither will our children be, so when we hit a speed bump or obstacle, show how we take it in stride.

paring siblings or criticizing based on arbitrary standards erodes self-worth. Instead, o er feedback that is kind, speci c and focuses on behavior rather than character.

practice of identifying each child’s strengths and abilities. Reinforce these regularly.

Michael Norton

Praise e ort over outcomes. Rather than just praising talents or achievements, recognize when they put forth e ort. is teaches them their value doesn’t come from external validation but from working hard.

Encourage them to pursue interests. Supporting their unique passions, rather than pushing your own, makes them feel known and accepted for who they are. It also builds con dence as they gain competence in activities they care about. is was a hard one for me, and maybe you too. Because I loved football, baseball, golf and skiing, I thought my kids should too. It is typically not the case, and when we give them the space to nd their own passions, who knows what they can teach us.

Let them solve some problems independently. Resist the urge to rush in and put away the cape. Allowing appropriate freedom helps them trust in their own abilities. O er guidance but let them take the lead in formulating solutions.

Don’t compare or criticize. Com-

It is being built just 2.5 miles southwest of one of the busiest runways for Centennial Airport and they don’t see a problem. Centennial Airport is the second busiest commercial airport in the nation. Second only to Trenton, NJ. And it brings in millions of dollars to the surrounding community. It wasn’t too many years ago that a plane crash just a few hundred feet from the new development sent a spinning prop into a home nearby. What do they think will happen when a larger jet crashes into the condos? A warning to new residence owners that they have a 24hour busy airport just 2.5 miles to the north of them does not su ce.

Lora omas should resign. Douglas County comissioners must be increased to ve from three. And a more diversi ed group of commissioners must be elected.

Gail McDonnell Castle Rock

Celebrate diversity. Expose them to people from di erent walks of life. Teach them that di erences make the world beautiful. Make sure they know you value who they are, inside and out. e challenge here is staying true to our own convictions and belief systems without forcing it upon them. If we live our values consistently, they may be more apt to follow.

Practice empathy. When they struggle, don’t minimize their feelings. Listen with compassion. Helping them feel heard and cared for, even in hard times; this is so important.

Be patient with mistakes. When they mess up, use it as a teaching opportunity, not a time for shame or harsh discipline. Remind them everybody makes mistakes — what matters most is learning from them. Learning to fail is critical to success at every stage of life.

Focus on strengths. We all have weaknesses but dwelling on decits damages self-esteem. Make a

Express love unconditionally. Let your kids know they are loved not for what they achieve but simply because of who they are. Make sure they feel secure in your a ection. By taking these steps, you can foster an environment where your kids feel safe being themselves. Nothing is more powerful than giving them the gift of true self-acceptance. When children believe in their inherent worth, they gain resilience to face life’s challenges and embrace their boundless potential. I would love to hear your story about your own experiences at gotonorton@gmail. com, and when we can all contribute to those who will one day lead us and care for us and this world it really will be a better than good life.

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.

TOURING HAUNTED HISTORIES OF COLORADO

BY NINA JOSS NJOSS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In the 1800s, a maid allegedly ran out of an open door and fell to her death from an upper oor of a building in Golden.

Some say they have heard operatic singing in a historic home in Georgetown.

Tales of the olden days say there was a secret tunnel under downtown Littleton.

ese stories are shared on ghost tours across the Front Range that immerse visitors in the haunted histories of Colorado cities.

Organized by historians, writers and believers of ghosts, these tours o er creative and entertaining ways to learn the history of Colorado towns while getting in the mood for the spooky season of Halloween.

For some, these tours are a fun reason to suspend disbelief and enjoy time with family and friends. For others, they showcase paranormal truths that exist in the places Coloradans live, work and play.

‘A combination of history and haunting’

Georgetown, located about an hour west of Denver in Clear Creek County, has a haunted history. From the historic Hamill House to vigilante justice, the place abounds with ghost stories.

A 1990s television series called “Sightings,” which explored paranormal and extraterrestrial activity, even included a segment that took place in a haunted café in Georgetown.

“When you think about how it was started — it was a mining town — and the fact that the people who came here were looking for a better life, there was a certain energy connected to that,” Anne Marie Cannon, owner and tour guide at Silver Queen Walking Tours, said of Georgetown.

“ at is the kind of energy that has lingered here.”

Cannon’s company o ers various themed tours at di erent times of the year, all rooted in history. e most popular tour she o ers is her ghost tour.

“I always say that my ghost tour is a combination of history and haunting,” Cannon said.

e Georgetown–Silver

Plume National Historic Landmark District, which includes downtown Georgetown, has hundreds of buildings that are protected from the 19th century, she said.

“It makes you feel like you’ve kind of been dropped back in the 1800s when you come here,” she said.

Cannon curates and guides the ghost tours herself, using information from historical research, archival work, letters, books and personal experiences.

e walk is about one mile long and lasts for two hours, she said. Visitors get a guided tour of Georgetown, stopping at di erent locations to learn stories of deaths and murders. ey even sometimes go into properties where the ghost stories take place.

For Cannon, the tours are an interesting way to share history with visitors.

“Even if the story might not be in a history book, I connect the story to the history of (the) place,” she said, adding that she enjoys the creativity she gets to put into her storytelling.

Bringing stories to life

Other tours in the region have di erent formats for their haunted explorations, like e Talking Dead, an immersive haunted scavenger hunt in Golden that combines history and haunts with an interactive adventure.

GHOST TOURS ACROSS THE METRO AREA OFFER PARANORMAL FESTIVITIES

Youth and adults volunteer to guide guests and tell spooky stories on the Haunts of Littleton tour, the proceeds of which support the scouts of Troop 444.

TOURING

“Guests are given a map of downtown Golden and it’s their job to nd the locations,” said Anneliese Farmer, who organizes the tours with the immersive theater company, Elevate Immersive. “ e whole goal of the guests’ evening is to visit all of these locations to either talk to a ghost and learn about their story or to get a clue … to basically piece together (their) ending location.”

At the stations with “ghosts,” costumed actors get into character to make the stories more immersive.

Guests on this self-guided tour can also stop at partner bars along the way to get special discounts on drinks.

Living “ghosts” also play a role in Haunts of Littleton, a tour that happens the last two weekends of October in downtown Littleton.

On this tour, guests are guided by “ghosts” and meet storytellers in costumes at each location.

In the early 2000s, three local leaders started the Littleton ghost tour. Greg Reinke, who owns a costume and Halloween store downtown, Brian Vogt of the Denver Botanic Gardens and John Brackney of the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce started it to “get things going” in downtown Littleton, Reinke said.

“I knew a bunch of ghost stories from around here, ‘cause I grew up here,” Reinke said. “It was to get some activity down here.”

Haunts of Littleton is now run by the Friends of 444 Foundation, which exists to support the scouts of Troop 444 in Littleton. e tours are executed by volunteers from the community, including youth, and proceeds from the event go to support the troop.

“We are blessed to have some really phenomenal scouts and families,” said Brian Cotter, who helps put on the tours. “We have talent in many di erent areas, and a lot of them have sort of acting backgrounds where they can provide this really exciting presentation to the stories.”

Even with theatrical elements, both Farmer and Cotter said their respective tours are based on historical information.

“All the stories we focus on are real stories of people that lived and worked and shared their lives in Golden and met … a dangerous past through one way or another,” Farmer said.

To write the stories for the immersive scavenger hunt tour, Farmer said her team researches in the library, the history museum and by looking at old newspaper articles.

Cotter said volunteers on his team conduct research for the stories they share. He emphasized that the stories on the tour are not scary and the event is family-friendly.

“ ese are more interesting, sort of haunted historical events or historical persons that have been in this region,” he said. “(Guests are) people that are fascinated by Littleton and some of the history around it and want to be entertained in a novel way.”

The big question

ose who go on ghost tours have a wide range of beliefs, from total skepticism to passionate paranormalists.

Farmer, who identi es as a “huge believer” in ghosts, said she likes bringing light to them in a fun and creative way through ghost tours.

She said ghost stories also continue the generations-long tradition of storytelling in human culture.

A value of the tours, Farmer said, is that they use history to give participants a jumping-o point to dive into paranormal concepts. She said she thinks this is part of the draw for those who participate.

“ is Victorian, macabre, spooky time in history is really compelling to quite a few folks because it feels so far out of reach as to what we’re living in now,” she said. “I think that it’s a form of escapism into the fantastical, but it still is kind of rooted in history — because (the history) did really happen and it did really exist at that time.”

Cotter, who said he tends to believe in ghosts as well, said public interest in ghost tours may

GO ON A TOUR

Silver Queen Walking Tours

Website: https://www.silverqueenwalkingtours. com/

When: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through October

Cost: $28 per adult, $18 per child

The Talking Dead: Immersive Haunted Scavenger Hunt

Website: https://www.elevateimmersivecolor com/shows/talking-dead

When: Oct. 7, 14, 21, 27, 28 and Nov. 4.

Cost: $40 per adult

Haunts of Littleton

Website: https://hauntsoflittleton.com/

When: Oct. 20, 21, 27 and 28

Cost: $17 per adult, $10 per child

come from the energy surrounding the Halloween season, like any holiday.

“ ere’s lots of reasons that we get together and celebrate,” he said. “ is is an opportunity, as the holiday season starts to come around, that you can get together with friends and family.”

For Cannon, interest in ghosts is tied to something deeper.

She said she started out as a huge skeptic but has had some experiences that have started to change her mind.

“ ere is something,” she said. “I don’t know what it is.”

at question, for Cannon, is what draws people to ghost tours.

“It’s the big question, right?” she said. “What happens to us when we die? What happens to our loved ones? It’s kind of an acceptable, safe place to really think about that stu , contemplate that stu and talk about it. I mean, I think it’s at the root of who we are as human beings.”

Whether the goal is to gather with friends or to re ect on human existence, this is the season to dive into paranormal curiosity, by walking, scavenger-hunting and wondering.

Visitors learn Littleton’s haunted history firsthand from ghosts and other storytellers on the Haunts of Littleton tour.

COURTESY OF HAUNTS OF LITTLETON

‘Thoughtful Intuition’ exhibit will run until January

Denver-based Japanese artist Taiko Chandler has installed a new exhibit at the Littleton Museum called “ oughtful Intuition,” which runs through Jan. 7, 2024. Gallery hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. e museum is at 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton. Admission is free. ere will be a related printmaking workshop on Nov. 15 at the museum. Admission is free. 303795-3950.

HOOTenanny

e 12th Annual Owl and Music Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 30 at the Denver Audubon Kingery Nature Center, 9308 S. Wadsworth Blvd. Littleton.

e Nearly ere Band will play and educators will hold live owl demonstrations at 10:30 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. Owl crafts for kids, owl pellet dissections, owl merchandise. All ages welcome. Learn about how to make it safer for birds migrating at night ... Ticketed. Also, beginning birding classes are available. See denveraudubon.org.

SONYA’S SAMPLER

Samara Joy

Samara Joy comes to the University of Denver’s Newman Center on Oct. 15. She is the winner of the 2023 Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal album and Best New Artist. Tickets: 303-871-7720 or newmancenterpresents.com. Newman Center is at 2344 E. lli Ave., Denver. Weekly programs, including Compagnie Herve Koubi: What the Day Owes the Night, 14 male dancers from the Mediterranean on Jan. 23. Joshua Redman Quartet performs on March

1. Okareka: Mana Wahine (Maori Indigenous dance) on March 10.

Garden club

Learn about a variety of edible plants at the Douglas County Garden Club meeting from 1-3 p.m. on Oct.

3. Becky Elder, permaculture expert and Colorado State University Master

Gardener, will present at the library in Castle Rock, 100 S. Wilcox St. New members and guests are invited. See douglascountygardenclub.org.

‘Cabaret’

Musical classic “Cabaret” by Kander and Ebb plays through Oct. 22 at Vintage eatre, 1468 Dayton St., Aurora. Directed by Bernie Cardell, with music direction by Tanner Kelly and choreography by Adrienne Hampton. 303-856-7830, vintagetheatre.org.

Town Hall

Town Hall Arts Center’s 41st season tickets are on sale. “All Shook Up” opened Sept. 21-to Oct. 15. Followed by “Last Session,” “Matilda,” “Urine Town,” “Raisin,” “Red,” “ e Prom.” Monday night performances are a bene t for the Denver Actors Fund.

One

Book, One Littleton

“ ey Can’t Take Your Name” by Robert Justice is the title for his year, One Book, One Littleton program. On Sept. 29, Justice will speak at Bemis Library, 6014 S. Datura St., at

a reception in his honor. e library has multiple copies, for those who might hear him speak and then read the book.

MOA

e Museum of Outdoor Arts will host a movie night on Oct. 20 and 21 at Marjorie Park in Greenwood Village, 6331 S. Fiddlers Green Circle. Doors open at 5 p.m. and movie will show at dusk — about 6:30 p.m. On Oct. 20, the lm will be “Drop Dead, Gorgeous” and on Oct. 21, it will be “Alice in Wonderland” (2010). Free for MOA members, $15 general admission. e park contains more than 40 original artworks.

Craft fair

e Littleton Craft Fair will be held on Oct. 7 at Ketring Park, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the annual Harvest Festival will be on Oct. 14 at the Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St. Families can bring a wagon to haul a fat pumpkin from the museum to your car. Games, refreshments and wagon rides are part of the festival fun.

INVENTORY INCLUDES: classic vehicles, pickup trucks, tire service truck, fuel truck, bucket trucks, tractors, vacuum truck, box truck, tow truck, utility bed pickup truck, flatbed pickup truck and more. All items are sold “AS IS.” 10% buyers premium applies.

steps to retaining and developing women leaders

By the Center for Creative Leadership

If retaining and developing women leaders are priorities in your company, what actions are you taking to achieve sustainable results?

Your organization, like others around the globe, may be struggling to overcome what’s now been coined the “SHEcession.” During the height of the pandemic, the unemployment rate for women was recorded about 2% higher than that of men — with the employment rate of women of

A special pullout advertising supplement from

LEADERS

color taking the biggest hit, according to statistics from the Institute for Women’s Policy Research.

It’s now more critical than ever to take an intentional and systematic approach to retaining and developing women leaders. Your HR function may have created policies or processes aimed at supporting the women in your organization. Maybe diversity training or gender-specific hiring and promoting goals are in the mix. Perhaps some of the policies aimed at increasing flexibility that were established in the height of the pandemic are here to stay, in recognition that women are commonly burdened with more caregiving responsibilities than men.

But HR policies and initiatives are just one piece of what’s needed to prepare and encourage women employees to take on leadership roles. More is needed, and it starts with your culture.

5 Keys to Success

The culture of an organization or a department — and even the views of a single manager — can have a direct impact on whether women stay with an organization or leave for something better. The informal patterns of influence and unspoken performance expectations play a role. And, of course, a woman’s individual experiences and perspectives are powerful factors, too.

To provide an equitable work experience that helps to support, retain, and develop women leaders, organizations should take a broad, “whole systems” view.

1. Address women’s leadership challenges and needed competencies.

Ensure your female leaders have the experiences and the resources to learn what they need most. Interventions for developing women leaders on an individual level could include targeted training, guidance for onthe-job learning, coaching opportunities, and mentoring at work.

It’s important that the organization — and individuals — are clear on the perspectives, skills, and capabilities that are needed to be effective in various leadership roles in your organization. In general, our research has

found that:

The top four leadership challenges for women are typically establishing credibility, managing up and across the organization, negotiating adeptly, and influencing others.

The two most important competencies to start developing are managing organizational complexity and strategic thinking and acting.

2. Leverage the power of choosing.

Individual women also need to be intentional about their careers and their development as leaders.

The power to choose is sometimes overlooked by women, due in part to cultural conditioning. So encourage female leaders in your organization to recognize their own agency and: Exert greater influence over the choices they make.

Take the lead in shaping conversations about their career.

Take ownership over their career choices.

Create a personal leadership development strategy.

Be as strategic about family responsibilities as they are about workplace roles.

Women leaders should receive messaging from the organization that embraces a more individualized — and less stereotypical — perspective on professional and personal roles that may have historically been categorized as “men’s roles” and “women’s roles.” It’s all part of living with intention, both at work and at home.

3. Rethink systems and challenge assumptions.

Helping individual women become better leaders is not enough. While there are no easy fixes for rebalancing the global gender gap, one thing is clear: the pandemic and consequent “SHEcession” have highlighted systemic imbalances that have a great impact on women, organizations, and larger society. It’s clear now that we do not need to change women — we need to change systems.

Look for ways that unconscious bias in the organization affects opportunities and motivation for women, and make increasing gender equity in the workplace a priority for your organization.

When your leaders (at every level) are able to recognize conscious and unconscious biases and imbalances, they can proactively work to address

them. The key is to create an environment where women leaders feel the psychological safety to speak out and have the backing of an organization committed to driving widespread culture change.

Take concrete steps to evolve your organizational culture to orient toward building greater equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) — starting with a focus on equity — and connect developing women leaders to your broader EDI approach.

Meeting scheduling, social norms, networking opportunities, mentoring programs, and talent management policies and processes are some potential areas for focused improvement. Also, ensure that managers are aware that they should ask, rather than assume that they know, what women in the workplace want from work (this is also a good idea with all employees).

Above all, organizations should create the culture and systems that make it easier to have candid conversations.

4. Provide flexible women’s leadership development experiences.

Talented women want organizations to invest in their development, but be sure to include them in the program selection process. Offer flexible formats, including virtual options, and provide “air cover” and the permission for women leaders to put their dayto-day work responsibilities on hold to make space for their development.

Another consideration is whether an all-women or all-gender experience is more beneficial for your organization’s unique situation. Both approaches can have a positive effect on retaining and developing women leaders. When making the decision, evaluate these factors:

Are women a demographic minority in the leadership ranks of your organization? If so, they may benefit from an all-women leadership development experience. The opportunity to connect and network with other women across their ranks can sometimes be more meaningful when it’s less available in their day-to-day work lives.

Do you have executive-level support? All-women programs are most effective when they have the explicit support and involvement of executive sponsors. This sends a message to women leaders that their needs are seen and that the organization is in-

vesting in the value they are capable of creating.

Is the development hosted within your organization? If so, sponsoring and mentoring women on an ongoing basis should also be considered. Doing so can provide guidance and support from senior leaders to help women integrate what they’ve learned into day-to-day operations.

Mixed-gender leadership development settings are also highly beneficial. After all, women lead in organizations that are racially, culturally, socioeconomically, and gender diverse. All-gender development can help participants network, influence, and lead across demographics more effectively. And for women leaders struggling with burnout, it can be validating to hear that many of their challenges are shared across genders, functions, and even industries.

5. Create the right networks. The right relationships and ties are an asset in getting access to information, earning promotions, and gaining opportunities. Effective leaders rely on key networks and trusted partners to influence others and to get results. Many women have struggled with networking, especially during the pandemic — often due to a combination of factors including lack of time, cultural programming, and the belief that networking is insincere, manipulative, or inauthentic. But the networks that come easily are not necessarily the most beneficial.

Organizations can support women in developing the relationships they need to succeed. Women need a network of champions, including mentors, sponsors, and coaches. This can help women leaders gain a clear understanding of the network they have, compared to the network they need. New relationships and new connections can be built, with both the short and long term in mind.

Organizations serious about retaining and developing women leaders will want to ensure they are helping all their talent build the right relationships, political skills, and networks to succeed.

Reprinted with permission from the Center for Creative Leadership. To read more, sign up for their newsletter or to download their “5-Day Retaining Women Leaders Challenge,” go to CCL.org.

CEO shares her early-career tips to move up

(Family Features) Many young professionals, especially women, face unique challenges in navigating workplace cultures. Passionate about mentoring young professionals and sharing her methods for success, Morgan DeBaun, founder and CEO of digital media and technology company Blavity, partnered with Sharpie — makers of a wide selection of permanent markers, pens, highlighters and more for the classroom, office and home — to share these steps you can take and skills you can build during the early stages of your career to enhance your long-term goals.

Be proactive: Take initiative and identify areas you can contribute beyond your assigned tasks. Instead of waiting to be asked to do something, draft an email, spreadsheet or project board that could benefit the team. Showing a willingness to go above and beyond may lead to additional projects or responsibilities being sent your way in the future.

Write everything down: Putting your dreams and goals to paper can help you commit to them, track progress and stay on course to achieve them. Additionally, particularly in meetings, your brain is processing new information, ways of thinking and operational systems all while you are trying to come across as engaged and personable. Jotting down key action items and learnings along the way can save you later. Being an active listener and note-taker can increase your ability to retain information and contribute to your team.

Identify useful productivity tools: Look for tools and programs that can help make you more productive and successful then leverage them in your personal workflow. Whether it’s an email scheduling tool, calendar software or favorite writing utensil, ensure you are taking advantage of things that can help you succeed.

Develop and strengthen your organizational skills: Regardless of what role you are in, being organized and structured in the way you work can help keep you on track as you grow in your career. Whether it’s a smartphone app, old-fashioned to-do lists on paper or desktop reminders on your computer, find a system that works for you and stick with it — refining the approach as you go — for best results.

Embrace teamwork and learn from your peers: Across your company, you are likely working with bright, talented people who may have completely different skill sets and ways of working and thinking than you. Set up 15- to 20-minute virtual coffee chats to meet people not on your team during your first 90 days as a way to connect with your coworkers and learn more about not only them but the company and its environment as a whole.

Say yes to opportunities: Whether it is a work event, new project, meeting or class, take advantage of prospects presented to you. Taking advantage of opportunities to network, learn and grow in your career can help lead you on the trajectory you are aiming for.

Li leton Busine Chamber celebrates a of our women-owned busine es!

Photo courtesy of Sharpie

The Benefit of Hindsight

Evergreen, Colorado, in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, is not only known for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its vibrant business community. In recent years, this picturesque town has seen a surge in female entrepreneurs who are making a significant impact on the local economy. These women are breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and carving their own paths in various industries, showcasing the unstoppable spirit of Evergreen’s businesswomen.

Lisa Perl and Kristen Porter are well known in the Evergreen area as owners of Evergreen Bread & Cocktail Lounge along with John Porter. The team had a vision of a community-focused restaurant and bakery which can bring friends and family together. They make food

using old-fashioned techniques and whole ingredients, using the freshest produce and high-quality baking ingredients to create delicious and healthy meals. As business leaders, Lisa and Kris have learned a few things over the years navigating the world of small business and entrepreneurship. Their journey offers valuable insights and inspiration for women seeking to make their mark in the world of entrepreneurship:

1. Build a Strong Network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers, and advisors. Networking is not just about who you know but also about who knows you.

2. Continuous Learning: Stay curious and committed to learning. The business world is ever-evolving, and acquiring new

skills and knowledge is key to staying competitive.

3. Embrace Risk: Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Success often requires stepping out of your comfort zone and seizing opportunities.

4. Confidence Matters: Believe in your abilities and ideas. Confidence can be a powerful tool in breaking through barriers.

5. Work-Life Balance: Finding balance between your professional and personal life is crucial for long-term success and well-being.

6. Advocate for Yourself: Don’t hesitate to speak up and advocate for what you deserve. Negotiate for fair compensation and recognition.

7. Mentorship: Seek out mentors

who can provide guidance and support. Learning from those who have been there can be invaluable.

8. Persistence: Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Success often comes to those who persist in the face of challenges.

9. Give Back: As you succeed, remember to give back to your community and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Kris and Lisa are more than successful business owners; they are role models for women aspiring to advance in business. The journey of Lisa and Kristen underscores that the time for women to advance in business is now, and with the right vision and dedication, success is well within reach.

Rep. Marshall hosts town hall in Highlands Ranch

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Rep. Robert Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch, recently held a town hall to update the public on what he has been doing with the legislature out of session, and talking about his plans for the upcoming 2024 session.

Marshall said he celebrated several summer community activities and attended Douglas County’s PrideFest.

He also took part in sessions at Wind Crest Retirement home, along with Rep. Elisabeth Epps, D-Denver, to speak about his decision to not approve the assault weapons ban bill.

Marshall recently attended the National Conference of State Legislatures as he was appointed to the Task force on State and Local Taxes, also known as SALT. e force identi es issues the legislature needs to address and provides guidance to states by developing model principals for tax reform and modernization.

At the conference, Marshall said he regained interest in requiring braille on prescription bottles to be compliant to those who are blind.  “Not like every little thing,” said Marshall. “But like the basics, the name, the dosage, expiration [date].”

Additionally, Marshall is currently on the Interim Committee on Tax Oversight.

According to the Colorado General Assembly website, the committee is required to de ne the scope of tax policy to be considered, consider policy considerations within the tax expenditure evaluations by the state auditor, recommend legislative changes and study tax policy.

Marshal also spoke about the lawsuit he and Epps led jointly against the Democratic party and Republicans for violating Sunshine laws during the 2023 session. Marshal said the law needs to be modernized because texting is a form of talking and is a record.

“ ere are people that may not want to see it addressed,” said Marshall. “Because it’s very easy to say there’s no way we can follow any of these laws. If we actually change it and we have workable rules, well, then you’re gonna be expected to follow because you have no excuses.”

Epps entered into a consent decree with the Colorado House of Representatives, the chamber’s Democratic and Republican caucuses and partisan leadership in the chamber.

According to a Colorado Sun report, as part of thesettlement, which must be approved by a judge, the defendants agreed to not discuss public business or take a “formal action” during a meeting where a quorum of a state body is expected to be in attendance without rst providing public notice of the gathering and promptly making minutes of the meeting publicly available.

Next session

ree bills Marshall brought last session that he may bring back again but in a di erent form were the Tax Teacher Credit, the County Commissioner Election and the Law Enforcement Professionalization (Hatch Act).

“I de nitely believe in them,” said Marshall.

If passed, the Tax Teacher Credit would create a refundable state income tax credit for eligible public school teachers for tax years 2023 through 2026 and increase state expenditures and reduce state revenue through the 2026-2027 scal year.

e County Commissioner Elections bill would have required counties with populations of 70,000 or more to have ve county commissioners instead of three. is would have a ected seven counties, including Douglas County which currently has three commissioners and a population of over 368,000

e third bill, also referred to as the Hatch Act, would limit the political activities of county sheri o ce

Marshall referred to this bill as three in one, which included the DoD regulation on extremism into law enforcement and nonpartisan elections of district attorney’s and sheri s. Two of the three pieces were taken out and the piece Marshall said he went forward with was applying the Federal Hatch Act to law enforcement, especially in counties.

“It got watered down to the point where all it was going to require was, you could not engage in partisan political activity while in uniform or using government property,” said Marshall.

Marshall clari ed that when uniformed o cers go to the legislature to testify, they are testifying in the capacity of a law enforcement o cer. He said the bill would have limited being in campaign ads and walking door to door in uniform with partisan candidates.

Marshall said he has continued to talk to the state’s attorney general about the issue.

Besides pushing to have braille on prescription bottles in 2024, Marshall said he also would like to have a neutral demographer do a study of the Douglas County Jail to identify disparities and the possible reasons for them.

Other ideas centered around the attorney general’s lawsuit against the EPA, making collected data easily accessible to the public, a disaster area casualty loss deduction to help homeowners impacted from the tornado and vacancy appointments.

Two topics Marshall wants to continue to focus on in the upcoming sessions are housing and mental health.

town hall in October.

Rep. Robert Marshall, D-Highlands Ranch, speaks about work he has done over the summer and ideas for the next session at a town hall event at the Highlands Ranch library.

PHOTO BY HALEY LENA

Castle Rock council directs sta to draft policy for public indecency

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Castle Rock will be implementing public indecency, indecent exposure and public nudity laws at the municipal level following a town council discussion on Sept. 19. e council unanimously directed sta to create an ordinance updating the town code to make public indecency, indecent exposure and public nudity illegal within town limits.

Currently, anyone charged with public indecency or indecent exposure in Castle Rock is prosecuted at the county or district level under state law. Adding the o enses to the town code will allow the crimes to be prosecuted at the municipal level.

“ at’s why we’re proposing to

add these three o enses to (the town code), so we can prosecute them right across the street,” Town Attorney Michael Hyman said.

According to records requested from the Castle Rock Police Department, there have been four summons and one arrest for public indecency or indecent exposure since 2020. None have occurred this year.

Hyman recommended Castle Rock adopt the same language as the state statute for public indecency, which prohibits sex, exposing genitals and other sexual behaviors in public places or places that are visible to the public.

Similarly for indecent exposure language, Hyman suggested copying the state statute, which de nes the o ense as exposing genitals or masturbating in front of a noncon-

senting person, both in public and private spaces.

State statute makes indecent exposure involving a child under 15-years-old a felony. Since felonies cannot be prosecuted at the municipal level, Castle Rock will not adopt that part of the statute in its town code, Hyman said.

“A felony means they could go down to the state penitentiary to serve the sentence, so we’re not going to do that portion of the statute and let those o enses be prosecuted where they should,” he said.

Colorado doesn’t have a state statute around public nudity, but other municipalities, including Lone Tree and Parker, prohibit public nudity. Hyman said public nudity laws cannot discriminate between men and women’s breasts and didn’t recommend a law banning all toplessness.

He suggested the town combine parts of ordinances from Parker and Fort Collins to prohibit people over the age of 10 from intentionally exposing their genitals or butt, or simulated genitals, while in public or in certain places visible to the public.

Exceptions would include things like receiving treatment during a medical emergency, being in a bathroom, locker room or changing room, or if the nudity is part of a performance or religious activity within an enclosed space, like a church or theater.

With the new ordinances, Hyman suggested the town also update rental permits and use agreements to require renters and users of town facilities to abide by town code.  e proposed ordinances come after months of conversations at the town council prompted by a wardrobe malfunction at last year’s Douglas County PrideFest, where

a drag performer’s breast plate was exposed.

is year’s PrideFest included a G-rated drag show with no malfunctions or nudity.

Many public commenters at the Sept. 19 meeting supported adopting the proposed ordinances. Two residents, Anya Zavadil and Jay Griebling, who previously opposed one another in public comments, spoke together at the meeting about nding common ground.

“What’s at stake is further division or resolution,” Griebling said.

“ at’s why we’re sitting here together, to try and come to an agreement on this ordinance so that Castle Rock has a clear de nition of what is appropriate in front of children and what is not.”

Zavadil, who is president of Castle Rock Pride, encouraged the town to ensure the laws are nondiscriminatory.

“We’re happy to follow ordinances, be respectful to our neighbors and continue to be great citizens, we don’t want this ght,” she said. “We’re here because we’re concerned that the new ordinance might be used disproportionately against the minorities in this town.”

Before the council voted on moving forward with the ordinances, council member Desiree La eur said the ordinances are not meant to target any speci c group.

“It’s not appropriate for us to focus on any one group because these issues can and will involve everyone,” La eur said.

With the council vote, town sta will draft an ordinance regarding public indecency, indecent exposure and public nudity. Ordinances must be approved by the council at a rst and second reading before they take e ect.

Observing Pain Awareness Month and National Recovery Month

September’s transitions can be both daunting and beautiful in the Rocky Mountain west with golden aspen leaves contrasting with fresh dustings of snow as daylight fades. It can also be a time for re ection and a catalyst for action as the dog days of August are replaced with crisp fall mornings and crystalclear blue skies.

e month is also an interesting contrast in public awareness campaigns focused on people who oftentimes live in the shadows of chronic pain or who are recovering from a substance use disorder. My background in opioid pharmacology and neuroscience has often juxtaposed between these seemingly disparate groups.

Pain Awareness Month: A Vital Call to Action

Pain, universally experienced by humans across the globe, is the body’s alarm system and an essential element of human survival. For millions, however, pain transcends its purpose, becoming an unrelenting companion that limits activities and reduces quality of life.

Pain Awareness Month serves as an important reminder to shed light on an often times invisible illness, spotlighting the daily challenges individuals face. e goal is twofold: to foster empathy towards those silently grappling with pain’s debilitating e ects and to raise awareness about the importance of providing better coordinated pain care to all those who need it.

In recent years, the opioid crisis has cast a further shadow over pain management conversations.

e over-prescribing opioids for pain relief contributed to an epidemic of compulsive drug use and overdoses. Recognizing this, Pain Awareness Month advocates for a more holistic approach to managing chronic pain, embracing alternative treatments, physical therapies, and psychological support.

National Recovery Month: A Journey of Triumph

While Pain Awareness Month focuses on acknowledging and managing pain, National Recovery Month shifts the spotlight to the process of healing from a substance use disorder. It’s a time to celebrate

GUEST COLUMN

Ed Bilsky

the strength of those who have embarked on the path to recovery, highlighting their stories of resilience, perseverance, and redemption and giving hope for those who are still struggling with an addiction. e opioid class of drugs are particularly seductive and extraordinarily challenging to break from their compulsive use. National Recovery Month is a testament to the transformative power of hope, coordinated treatment resources, and support networks. It underscores the importance of viewing addiction not as a moral failing but as a complex medical condition that requires compassion and evidence-based interventions.

Intersecting Conversations

ese two awareness campaigns intersect in profound ways and speak to the need for collaboration rather than the pointing of ngers and assignment of blame. Awareness is the rst step towards shared understanding. Each disease has a tremendous stigma associated that can cast the individual out from mainstream society.  Isolation contributes to anxiety, fear, and depression, common co-morbidities with each of these diseases. Collaboration helps to build trust and engenders empathy and compassion. Increased public awareness and united voices are more likely to catalyze change that improves access to coordinated resources and the ability to navigate them.

Awareness and advocacy events invite patients, healthcare professionals and legislators to engage in informed conversations about the existing challenges and shortcomings while also exploring solutions. e patient’s perspective is critical in the education of future healthcare providers and scientists who are looking for better treatment options. My career at Rocky Vista University and other graduate health universities has brought these voices into the classroom and laboratories, as well as into community forums and the halls of congress.

A Call to Action

As September dawns, let’s seize the opportunity to unite under the

banners of Pain Awareness Month and National Recovery Month. It’s a time to educate ourselves, and each other, about the complexities of pain and substance use disorders, to be more empathetic towards those who endure them, and to advocate for improved pain management techniques and addiction treatment resources.

rough open conversations, we can empower individuals to ask better questions about their speci c disease  and treatment options, thereby improving the odds of a successful recovery back to s state of health and well-being. In these observances, we nd the threads

that connect pain, addiction, recovery, and healing rather than issues that divide us. Together, let’s weave a tapestry of awareness, compassion, and action - creating a society where chronic diseases are better understood, and the individual is welcomed back into our communities.

Ed Bilsky, Ph.D. is the Provost and Chief Academic O cer at Rocky Vista University. He earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacology and Toxicology at the University of Arizona and has spent over 35 years as a scientist studying opioids and the neurobiology of pain and addiction. He can be reached at ebilsky@rvu.edu.

Kendrick Castillo honored at inaugural event with Fallen Hero award

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Four years after Kendrick Castillo was killed in the shooting at STEM Schools Highlands Ranch as he lunged at a shooter to protect fellow students, Douglas County still has not forgotten. Showing what Kendrick’s heroics that day still mean to the community, Kendrick was honored with the inaugural Fallen Hero award during the rst-ever Heroes Gala.

e event, held by the Douglas County Community Foundation, honored local heroes from law enforcement, re departments and dispatch.

However, the main award of the night was given to a young man who had never had any training in law enforcement. Instead, he just used instincts.

Capt. Joe White of the Douglas County Sheri ’s O ce said Kendrick’s actions that day in 2019 “forever changed our lives and showed us what it really meant to be a hero. His bravery was not a result of training but a testament of character. He gave his life to save others.”

Kendrick’s parents, John and Maria, appeared both in video and in person during the ceremony. In a tribute video, the couple said their son was always happy as they described his childhood and the last morning with him when he drove

away for the nal time.

In accepting the award on behalf of his son, John Castillo said his family supports, respects and values law enforcement, adding that he and his wife continue to take what happened to their son to help and educate others.

“Live every day to its fullest,” John Castillo said. “(Kenrick) gave everything and I thank you for honoring him.”

John Castillo also said Kendrick was not the only hero that day, crediting his classmates who also charged the student gunman to save lives. Kendrick’s friend, Joshua Jones, also attended the gala to honor his friend.

Several other awards were presented during the inaugural gala on Sept. 21.

Keara Martin, a dispatcher for the Douglas County Sheri ’s O ce, was recognized for what she did in taking one call last year. In playing the audio, Martin received a 911 call where a woman said her husband had found out his daughter was sexually assaulted by a man. e woman asked for help, saying her husband was headed to that man’s house to hurt him.

Martin called the father. Using empathy, she told the man she understood his feelings and anger but stressed it would do his daughter

To learn more about the Baha’i Faith or find a gathering, please contact us.

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Castle Rock

John and Maria Castillo talk about seeing their son, Kendrick Castillo, for the last time in 2019. Kendrick was honored with the Fallen Hero award at the Heroes Gala on Sept. 21. COURTESY PHOTO

More than 600 attended the Heroes Gala on Sept. 21 where SROs, dispatchers and more were honored for service in Douglas County. COURTESY PHOTOS

SEE CASTILLO, P27

CASTILLO

no good if he went through with going to the suspect’s home.

e man was two minutes away from the home when Martin got through to him and convinced him to stop and wait for deputies.

In accepting the award, Martin credited the work of all call dispatchers, adding that she was meant to get that call that day.

In re and rescue, CJ Bailes with South Metro Fire Rescue was honored for his leadership that took place in June when a tornado suddenly swept through Highlands Ranch.

As the storm came through, the South Metro dispatch center received 269 calls, more than double a normal day.

O cials said Bailes led his

team through the day, taking calls and getting help to those in need.

In accepting the award, Bailes gave credit to his team and the entire department, noting that people in the nance department and elsewhere stepped in to provide assistance to all the citizens in need of help that day.

In another emotional part of the night, the SRO of the Year award was presented to Je Cisclo, of the Douglas County Sheri ’s O ce. In a video tribute, a student’s voice could be heard reading a letter written to thank Cisclo.

e student explained that at Mountain View High School last year, her friends found her in the bathroom trying to cut her wrist. She said she promised counselors and other school administrators that day that she did not need help and was not going to commit suicide.

She said she made those promises knowing she would leave the school and was going to try again that night.

However, she somehow got sent to Cisclo’s o ce, where he talked to her about the importance of getting help and how much her family would rather see her get help.

“Indirectly, you saved my life that day,” the student said.

e inaugural gala drew a crowd of more than 600 people, where an auction was held to collect funding to help support emergency services.

Douglas County Commissioner Abe Laydon said for every dollar up to $200,000 that the audience gave, the county would match it.

“In Douglas County we do not defund the police, we fund them,” Laydon said to a cheering audience. “Here we back the blue.”

Lone Tree: Your Fall Destination

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Kendrick Castillo was killed while trying to stop the STEM School shooting in May 2019. COURTESY PHOTOS

Legend improves to 3-0 in league play

BY JIM BENTON JBENTON@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Legend had an easy 8-0 Continental League boys’ soccer win over Douglas County on Sept. 19, but Titans’ head coach Daniel Pennington isn’t taking anything for granted. e Titans scored seven goals in the second half, improving their overall record to 5-1-1 and 3-0 in league play.

Douglas County dropped to 2-4

overall, and 0-2 in the league.

“We have to stay consistent and not get ahead of ourselves,” said Pennington after the lopsided win at Echo Park Stadium. “At times in the past, we’ve got ahead of ourselves, and we’ve seen our performances drop.

“Right now, clearly, we are in a great spot at 5-1-1. We’ve got some tough games coming up, so we have to make sure we keep pushing forward. I know we can still get better.

The More We Move

This interactive performance illustrates the technique of ballet with company dancers and audience participation. Young audience members are invited to take the stage to learn the movement of a professional dancer in a show that is sure to expand the understanding and appreciation of ballet.

We have to nd a way to do that.”

After the Sept. 19 game, the Titans had three of the top four scorers in the Continental League.

Senior Caleb Graham, the league’s leading scorer, had two goals against the Huskies. Senior Bradly Venalonzo and classmate Gustav Blom also had two goals. Senior Ryan Stewart had a goal and assist and sophomore Elias Jahan also had a tally.

Graham swelled his point total to 18 on eight goals and two assists. Venalonzo, ranked third in the league, has eight goals and 16 points, while Stewart, who is fourth among the league’s leading scorers, now has six goals and three assists

for 15 points.

It took a while, but Pennington was pleased with what he witnessed against Douglas County.

“We did well at the end,” he related. “We were very slow to start which was not our quality. We came out the second half and showed what we can do.

“

ere were a lot of good performances all around.

ere were a lot of players you could pick out. Our defense was very solid and they didn’t give up a whole lot of opportunities.”

After a non-league game against Doherty, Legend faces league games on Sept. 26 against Heritage and Sept. 28 against Chaparral.

Solution

TRIVIA

1. LITERATURE: What is the name of the clown in Stephen King’s horror novel “It”?

2. ASTRONOMY: How o en does Halley’s Comet appear in the Earth’s sky?

3. U.S. STATES: Which state has the most electoral votes in 2024?

4. MOVIES: In “Jurassic Park,” what kind of container is used to store stolen dinosaur embryos?

5. ART: Which art movement is Salvador Dali associated with?

6. AD SLOGANS: Which car manufacturer used the ad slogan “Quality is Job 1”?

7. TELEVISION: Which TV show spawned the spino comedy/drama “Maude”?

8. FOOD & DRINK: What is the main ingredient in falafel?

9. GEOGRAPHY: What is the world’s shortest river?

10. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What are a crab’s pincers called?

Answers

1. Pennywise.

2. On average, every 76 years.

3. California (54).

4. A canister that looks like a Barbasol Shaving Cream can.

5. Surrealism.

6. Ford Motor Company.

7. “All in the Family.”

8. Chickpeas.

9. Roe River, Montana.

10. Chelae.

(c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088

Legals

Public Trustees

PUBLIC NOTICE

Parker NOTICE OF SALE

Public Trustee Sale No. 2023-0129

To Whom It May Concern: On 7/6/2023 1:35:00

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: Jason L. Doumer and Megan E. Doumer

Original Beneficiary:

Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as Beneficiary, as nominee for Cherry Creek Mortgage, LLC, its successors and assigns

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt:

Freedom Mortgage Corporation

Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 1/20/2021

Recording Date of DOT: 2/8/2021

Reception No. of DOT: 2021015465

DOT Recorded in Douglas County.

Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $425,488.00

Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $341,185.73

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: 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 24, BLOCK 11, STROH RANCH FILING NO. 12, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO.

Which has the address of: 12960 Banyon Cir, Parker, CO 80134

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.

DAVID GILL DOUGLAS COUNTY

Public Trustee

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

AMANDA FERGUSON Colorado Registration #: 44893 355 UNION BLVD SUITE 250, LAKEWOOD, COLORADO 80228 Phone #: (303) 274-0155

Fax #: Attorney File #: CO22011

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

Legal Notice No. 2023-0129

First Publication: 9/14/2023

Last Publication: 10/12/2023

Publisher: Douglas County News Press PUBLIC NOTICE

Parker NOTICE OF SALE Public Trustee Sale No. 2023-0123

To Whom It May Concern: On 6/30/2023 9:22:00

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: John A Guerra and Michelle D Guerra

Original Beneficiary: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. ('MERS") as nominee for DHI Mortgage Company

Its Successors and Assigns

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: the failure to make timely payments required under said Deed of Trust and the Evidence of Debt secured thereby.

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.

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: 8/31/2023

Last Publication: 9/28/2023

Publisher: Douglas County News Press

Dated: 6/30/2023

DAVID GILL

DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee

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

ILENE DELL'ACQUA

Colorado Registration #: 31755 7700 E. ARAPAHOE ROAD, SUITE 230 , CENTENNIAL, COLORADO 80112

Phone #: (877) 369-6122

Fax #:

Attorney File #: CO-23-960158-LL

*YOU MAY TRACK FORECLOSURE SALE

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

Legal Notice No. 2023-0123

First Publication: 8/31/2023

Last Publication: 9/28/2023

Publisher: Douglas County News Press PUBLIC NOTICE

Parker NOTICE OF SALE

Public Trustee Sale No. 2023-0132

To Whom It May Concern: On 7/25/2023 8:07:00

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: KEENAN YOUNG AND CHRISTOPHER YOUNG

Original Beneficiary: MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR COUNTRYWIDE BANK, N.A., ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

Current Holder of Evidence of Debt:

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF2 ACQUISITION TRUST

Date of Deed of Trust (DOT): 2/22/2007

Which has the address of:

16298 Hawkstone Pl, Parker, CO 80134-9488

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, November 15, 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: 9/21/2023

Last Publication: 10/19/2023

Publisher: Douglas County News Press

Dated: 7/25/2023

DAVID GILL

DOUGLAS COUNTY Public Trustee

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

DAVID R DOUGHTY Colorado Registration #: 40042 9540 MAROON CIRCLE SUITE 320, ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO 80112

Phone #: (303) 706-9990

Fax #: (303) 706-9994

Attorney File #: 23-030417

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

Legal Notice No. 2023-0132

First Publication: 9/21/2023

Last Publication: 10/19/2023

Publisher: Douglas County News Press City and County

PUBLIC NOTICE

ing. Ballots must be received by the Douglas County Elections Office no later than 7:00 p.m. on November 7, 2023. Postmarks do not count as a received date.

24-HOUR BALLOT DROP BOX LOCATIONS:

These locations are available 24 hours a day beginning Monday, October 16, 2023, until 7:00 p.m. Election Day, Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

Castle Pines Library

360 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines

Crystal Valley Ranch

Recreation Center

2160 Fox Haven Drive, Castle Rock

Douglas County Elections Office

125 Stephanie Place, Castle Rock

Douglas

Department

Lincoln Meadows Parkway

Town Hall

E. Mainstreet, Parker

Park

Redstone Park Circle

Ranch

Marketplace

N. Rampart Range Road, Littleton

Suburban Sports Complex

E. County Line Road, Littleton

Ranch Civic Center

Piney River Avenue, Littleton

Grange

Meadows Boulevard, Castle Rock The Ridge House 4501 Enderud Boulevard, Castle Rock

VOTER SERVICE AND POLLING CENTER LOCATIONS AND HOURS:

THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that on the first possible sale date (unless the sale is continued*) at 10:00 a.m.

Legal Description of Real Property:

LOT 7, BLOCK 2, DOUGLAS 234 FILING NO.

Recording Date of DOT: 3/5/2007 Reception No. of DOT: 2007018693

DOT Recorded in Douglas County.

NOTICE OF ELECTION TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2023

DOUGLAS COUNTY

SHERI DAVIS, CLERK AND RECORDER

Wednesday, November

8, 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: 9/14/2023

Last Publication: 10/12/2023

Publisher: Douglas County News Press

Dated: 7/7/2023

5, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO.

Which has the address of: 15999 East Summit Fox Avenue, Parker, CO 80134

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, October 25, 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

Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt:

$372,000.00

Outstanding Principal Amount as of the date hereof: $374,700.88

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, STONEGATE FILING NO 14A, COUNTY OF DOUGLAS, STATE OF COLORADO

In compliance with the provisions of Colorado Revised Statute 1-5-205(1) notice is hereby given that a Coordinated Election will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Ballots will be mailed to all eligible electors beginning on October 16, 2023. Voters who do not receive a ballot by October 25, 2023, may request a ballot from the Douglas County Elections Office, located at 125 Stephanie Place, Castle Rock, CO 80109, or by calling 303-660-7444.

Completed ballots may be returned by U.S. Mail or hand delivered to a Douglas County

BALLOT DROP BOX LOCATION or VOTER SERVICE AND POLLING CENTER . If you choose to return a completed ballot by mail, you must affix adequate postage to the OFFICIAL

BALLOT RETURN ENVELOPE before mail-

Voter Service and Polling Centers offer the following voter services: register to vote, update voter registration, replace a ballot, vote in person, drop off a voted ballot, use an ADA-accessible voting machine.

These locations are available Monday – Friday, October 30 – November 6, 2023, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.., Saturday, November 4, 2023, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Election Day, Tuesday, November 7, 2023, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Douglas County Kirk Hall 500 Fairgrounds Road, Castle Rock

Northridge Recreation Center 8800 S. Broadway, Highlands Ranch

Lone Tree Library 10055 Library Way, Lone Tree

Parker Town Hall 20120 E. Mainstreet, Parker

Voters will be MAILED a ballot that contains only those races and/or measures on which the voter is eligible to vote.

Please contact the Douglas County Elections Office at 303-660-7444 or visit DouglasVotes.com if you have any questions.

Public Notices

Legal Notice No. 946017

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: September 28, 2023

Publisher: Douglas County News-Press

Children Services

(Adoption/Guardian/Other)

Public Notice

DOUGLAS COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, STATE OF COLORADO 4000 Justice Way Castle Rock, CO Douglas County, CO 80109

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO

In the Interest of:

BABY BOY LANDERS, D.O.B.: 11/14/2022

Child,

And Concerning: XEA ELIZABETH MARIE LANDERS, A.K.A. XEA BERGFELD, A.K.A. XEA LANDERS-BERGFELD, Mother

JOHN DOE, Possible Father Respondents.

Attorney for Department: R. LeeAnn Reigrut, #28833 Amy Hendrickson, #32110 4400 Castleton Ct. Castle Rock, CO 80109 (303) 814-5325 lreigrut@douglas.co.us ahendrickson@douglas.co.us

CASE NUMBER: 22JV106 DIVISION 8

NOTICE OF TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS HEARING

COMES NOW the Douglas County Department of Human Services, by and through counsel, Amy Hendrickson, Assistant Douglas County Attorney, who respectfully provides notice that a Termination of Parental Rights Hearing is scheduled on October 13, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. in Division 8 of the Douglas County District Court. Parties and counsel are ordered to appear in person on that date and time unless otherwise ordered by the Court.

Legals

Bids and Settlements

Public Notice

NOTICE OF INVITATION FOR BIDS

Sealed bids are invited for:

ELIZABETH FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, SCBA Proposal

Scope:

Respectfully submitted this 20th day of Sep-

tember 2023,

/s/ Amy Hendrickson

Amy Hendrickson, #32110 Assistant Douglas County Attorney

/s/ Jaime Lessar, Paralegal

Legal Notice No. 946053

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: September 28, 2023

Publisher: Douglas County News-Press Public Notice

DOUGLAS COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, STATE OF COLORADO 4000 Justice Way Castle Rock, Colorado 80109 (720) 437-6200

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO

In the Interest of:

BABY BOY LANDERS, D.O.B.: 11/14/2022 Child,

And Concerning:

XEA ELIZABETH MARIE LANDERS, A.K.A. XEA BERGFELD, A.K.A. XEA LANDERS-BERGFELD, Mother JOHN DOE, Possible Father Respondents.

Attorney for Department: R. LeeAnn Reigrut, #28833 Amy Hendrickson, #32110 4400 Castleton Court Castle Rock, CO 80109

Phone: (303) 814-5325

Fax: (303) 479-9259 lreigrut@douglas.co.us ahendrickson@douglas.co.us

CASE NUMBER: 22JV106 DIVISION 8

DEPENDENCY SUMMONS

This Summons is initiated pursuant to Rule 2.2 of the Colorado Rules of Juvenile Procedure, Rule 4 of the Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure, and Section 19-3-503, C.R.S.

TO: XEA ELIZABETH MARIE LANDERS, A.K.A. XEA BERGFELD, A.K.A. XEA LANDERS-BERGFELD, D.O.B.: 11/13/1982

TO THE RESPONDENT NAMED ABOVE:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed which alleges that the above-named child is dependent or neglected as per the facts set forth in the Amended Dependency and Neglect Petition, a copy of which may be obtained at the office of the Douglas County Attorney’s Office.

A Termination of Parental Rights Hearing has been set for October 13, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. in Division 8 of the Douglas County District Court. All parties shall appear in person unless otherwise indicated by the Court.

Your presence before this court is required to defend against the claims in this petition. IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR, THE COURT WILL PROCEED IN YOUR ABSENCE, WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE, TO CONDUCT AN ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND MAY ENTER A JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT THEREBY ADJUDICATING YOUR CHILD AS A DEPENDENT OR NEGLECTED CHILD.

You have the right to request a trial by jury at the adjudicatory stage of this petition. You also have the right to legal representation at every stage of the proceedings by counsel of your own choosing, or if you are without sufficient financial means, appointment of counsel by the Court. Termination of your parent-child legal relationship to free your child for adoption is a possible remedy in this proceeding. If that remedy is pursued, you are entitled to a hearing before a Judge. You also have the right, if you are indigent, to have the Court appoint, at no expense to you, one expert witness of your own choosing at any hearing on the termination of your parent-child relationship. If you are a minor, you have the right to the appointment of a Guardian ad litem to represent your best interests.

You have the right to have this matter heard by a district court judge rather than by the magistrate. You may waive that right, and in doing so, you will be bound by the findings and recommendations of the magistrate, subject to review as provided by sec. 19-1-108(5.5), C.R.S., and subsequently, to the right of appeal as provided by Colorado Appellate Rule 3.4.

This summons is being initiated by the Douglas County Department of Human Services through its counsel.

Dated: September 20, 2023

/s/ Amy Hendrickson

Amy Hendrickson, #32110 Assistant Douglas County Attorney

Legal Notice No. 946055

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: September 28, 2023

Publisher: Douglas County News-Press

Public Notice

DOUGLAS COUNTY DISTRICT COURT, STATE OF COLORADO 4000 Justice Way Castle Rock, Colorado 80109 (720) 437-6200

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO

In the Interest of:

BABY BOY LANDERS, D.O.B.: 11/14/2022 Child,

And Concerning: XEA ELIZABETH MARIE LANDERS, A.K.A. XEA BERGFELD, A.K.A. XEA LANDERS-BERGFELD, Mother JOHN DOE, Possible Father Respondents.

Attorney for Department:

R. LeeAnn Reigrut, #28833

Amy Hendrickson, #32110 4400 Castleton Court Castle Rock, CO 80109

Phone: (303) 814-5325

Fax: (303) 479-9259 lreigrut@douglas.co.us ahendrickson@douglas.co.us

CASE NUMBER: 22JV106 DIVISION 8

DEPENDENCY SUMMONS

This Summons is initiated pursuant to Rule 2.2 of the Colorado Rules of Juvenile Procedure, Rule 4 of the Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure, and Section 19-3-503, C.R.S.

TO: JOHN DOE, D.O.B.: Unknown

TO THE RESPONDENT NAMED ABOVE:

You are hereby notified that a petition has been filed which alleges that the above-named child is dependent or neglected as per the facts set forth in the Amended Dependency and Neglect Petition, a copy of which may be obtained at the office of the Douglas County Attorney’s Office.

A Termination of Parental Rights Hearing has been set for October 13, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.

Elbert County Notices

to s.fischer@elizabethfire.org. Oral, fax, or other forms of bid will not be accepted. All proposals become the property of Elizabeth Fire Protection District and will not be returned. Mailed proposals that are delivered after the submission deadline will not be accepted regardless of the postmarked time on the envelope. Vendors should carefully consider all delivery options and select a method that will ensure successful delivery prior to the submission deadline. Any proposal may be withdrawn by providing written notice prior to the submittal deadline. Vendors who wish to receive the bid documents, have questions, wish to request clarification, or otherwise need to contact the Department regarding this specification may contact: Sarah Fischer, Director of Finance & HR, s.fischer@elizabethfire.org.

28, 2024, or the claims may be forever barred.

Teresita De jesus Rivera Personal Representative 41941 County Road 162 Agate Colorado 80101

Legal Notice No. 25046

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: October 12, 2023

Publisher: Elbert County News Name Changes PUBLIC NOTICE

in Division 8 of the Douglas County District Court. All parties shall appear in person unless otherwise indicated by the Court.

Your presence before this court is required to defend against the claims in this petition. IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR, THE COURT WILL PROCEED IN YOUR ABSENCE, WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE, TO CONDUCT AN ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND MAY ENTER A JUDGMENT BY DEFAULT THEREBY ADJUDICATING YOUR CHILD AS A DEPENDENT OR NEGLECTED CHILD.

You have the right to request a trial by jury at the adjudicatory stage of this petition. You also have the right to legal representation at every stage of the proceedings by counsel of your own choosing, or if you are without sufficient financial means, appointment of counsel by the Court. Termination of your parent-child legal relationship to free your children for adoption is a possible remedy in this proceeding. If that remedy is pursued, you are entitled to a hearing before a Judge. You also have the right, if you are indigent, to have the Court appoint, at no expense to you, one expert witness of your own choosing at any hearing on the termination of your parent-child relationship. If you are a minor, you have the right to the appointment of a Guardian ad litem to represent your best interests.

You have the right to have this matter heard by a district court judge rather than by the magistrate. You may waive that right, and in doing so, you will be bound by the findings and recommendations of the magistrate, subject to review as provided by sec. 19-1-108(5.5), C.R.S. and subsequently, to the right of appeal as provided by Colorado Appellate Rule 3.4.

This summons is being initiated by the Douglas County Department of Human Services through its counsel.

Dated: September 20, 2023

/s/ Amy Hendrickson Amy Hendrickson, #32110 Assistant Douglas County Attorney

Legal Notice No. 946054

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: September 28, 2023

Publisher: Douglas County News-Press ###

Bid Bond required: Yes Bid

ELIZABETH FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT (the "Department") has been awarded an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) to purchase one hundred and ten (110) sets of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) plus forty-eight (48) additional facepieces. This award is being administered by Elizabeth Fire Protection District on behalf of all regional participants, which also include Kiowa Fire Protection District, Big Sandy Fire Protection District, Rattlesnake Fire Protection District, and Agate Fire Protection District. Per the terms of the award, the equipment shall be new and of current design and manufacture; used or refurbished equipment is unacceptable. Proposals will only be considered from manufacturers which have established a favorable reputation in the field of fire equipment. Bid Deadline: 5:00 pm on October 10, 2023 at Elizabeth Fire Protection District Attn: SCBA PROPOSAL, PO Box 441, Elizabeth, CO 80107

Submittal: Proposals may be hand-delivered or sent via U.S. Mail or private carrier, or via email

Legal Notice No. 25048

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: September 28, 2023

Publisher: Elbert County News

Notice to Creditors

Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Martin Guadarrama Sanchez, Deceased Case Number 2023PR30053

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before January

Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name

Public notice is given on September 6, 2023, that a Petition for a Change of Name of an adult has been filed with the Elbert County Court.

The petition requests that the name of Susan Elizabeth Murphy be changed to Anura Murphy Rain Case No.: 23C51

By: Judge Palmer L. Boyette

Legal Notice No. 25047

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: October 12, 2023

Publisher: Elbert County News

####

To know more, read the public notices in today’s newspaper or go to publicnoticecolorado.com

Brought to you by your newspaper and the Colorado Press Association

Public Notices

Ownership Statement Elbert County News

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: September 28, 2023

Publisher: Elbert County News

Withoutpublicnotices,thegovernmentwouldn’thavetosayanythingelse.

Publicnoticesare acommunity’swindowintothegovernment.Fromzoningregulationstolocalbudgets, governmentshaveusedlocalnewspaperstoinformcitizensofitsactionsasanessentialpartofyourright toknow.Youknowwheretolook,whentolookandwhattolookfortobeinvolvedas acitizen.Local newspapersprovideyouwiththeinformationyouneedtogetinvolved.

Noticesaremeanttobenoticed.Readyourpublicnoticesandgetinvolved!

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