Parker Chronicle October 5, 2023

LAWSUIT WRAPPED UP School board ends legal battle P4 Gary Weston recently joined the Douglas County Veterans Services o ce to provide mental health support to those who need it.

GARY WESTON JOINS DEDICATED TEAM P8

TAX SUMMIT County hosts local leaders P9

WATER BOARD

Candidates have ties to RWR P2

PHOTO BY THELMA GRIMES

Water board candidates have ties to RWR

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Two leaders of a private company that proposed a controversial water project garnered some support to join a new arm of Douglas County’s government that is expected to help shape the future of water supply in a growing county.

e new government body, the Douglas County Water Commission, is expected to help create a plan regarding water supply and conservation, among other aspects of water in the county. It’ll consist of unpaid volunteers, according to 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 Southern 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, county leaders Abe Laydon and Lora omas joined together in deciding not to move forward with that project, while Teal has continued to support it.

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

Laydon and Teal have expressed support for appointing Tonner.

Another RWR leader, John Kim,

made it onto Teal’s list as someone whom he supports to be an “alternate” member of the water commission, who could serve if a regular member is unavailable.

“I’d like to put forward John Kim ... because he’s an elected o cial from Roxborough,” Teal said during a Sept. 26 meeting of county o cials.

“John Kim is a principal of RWR, so I am not interested in having him in my district,” omas said in response. e county’s elected leaders planned to appoint some members from each “district,” or area, of the county.

Teal said that alternates should attend every meeting of the water commission once it gets underway, but it is unclear whether one of his colleagues would back that policy.

Kim’s name did not appear on an updated typed-out list of those in the running, so it was unclear whether he has support going forward.

As for Sept. 26, county o cials still had yet to conduct interviews with the applicants they have supported. e interviews could happen in early October.

Here’s a look at the applicants that still had support as the county leaders continued to whittle down the list.

Makeup of commission

A total of 52 people applied to serve on the water commission, according to county sta as of Sept. 27. Many are current or former public o cials, including some who serve on local water providers like the Parker Water District.

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

e three elected 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” to serve in place of any regular members if needed.

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 have garnered support to potentially serve

as the main members of the water commission include the following.

County leaders discussed a longer list of preferred applicants at a Sept. 19 meeting and narrowed down the list further on Sept. 26. is list includes information about some applicants, generally based on how the county leaders described them.

Applicants in the running

From District I, or northeast Douglas County, based on Laydon’s recommendation:

• 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

From District II, including central and south Douglas County, based on Teal’s recommendation:

• Clark Hammelman,a former Castle Rock town councilmember

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

• Roger Hudson, a Castle Pines city councilmember

From District III, or northwest Douglas County:

• Frank Johns

• Evan Ela

• Kurt Walker

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

County leaders disagreed somewhat over the District III preferences. omas supported Johns, Ela and Walker, and Teal said there’s consensus on Johns but Smethills should get a spot. It appeared that Ela and Walker may compete for one seat.

At-large members could include:

• Sean Tonner

• Tricia Bernhard

Looking forward 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.

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

School district agrees to pay $103K in legal fees

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e Douglas County School District will pay Rep. Robert Marshall more than $103,000 for legal costs related to his lawsuit against the school board for violating Colorado Open Meetings Law, ending a 19-month legal battle.

Voting on Sept. 26, the school board unanimously approved a resolution to pay Marshall, a Democratic state representative in Highlands Ranch, $103,400 in attorneys’ costs and court fees.

Douglas County District Court Judge Je rey Holmes found in June that board members Becky Myers, President Mike Peterson, Christy Williams and Kaylee Winegar acted illegally when they had a series of private one-on-one conversations

in February 2022 about ring former superintendent Corey Wise.

Under Colorado law, the district is obligated to pay Marshall’s attorneys fees and court costs, though the district could argue that the cost is unreasonable. e board approved the resolution ahead of a scheduled Oct. 6 court hearing to debate whether Marshall was seeking reasonable fees.

Peterson said he is looking to put the lawsuit behind the board.

“ is is what we need to do to go forward and … avoid future costs in this speci c matter because if we do not approve this resolution tonight has indicated a desire or potential to appeal, dragging it out for I don’t know how much longer,” he said.  e board’s resolution includes a

SPONSOR OF WOMEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS EVENT 10.13.23

Rocky Vista Health Center - Leading with compassion

Douglas County women no longer have to wait months to obtain a wellness visit thanks to the Rocky Vista Health Center in Parker. As a teaching facility, Rocky Vista Health Center provides patients with longer appointments and more personalized care at each and every visit. The Rocky Vista Health Center knows how important it is for women to be seen by a provider as soon as possible, and they strive to provide same week appointments.

Leading with compassion, the medical team wants women to feel heard and be confident in their ability to live the healthiest life possible. Understanding the conditions unique to women at all stages of life, the clinic offers a supportive environment for a wide range of concerns, including heart health, cancer, breast health, sexual health, osteoporosis, thyroid disease, rheumatologic diseases, depression, anxiety, and menopause. Women who turn to Rocky Vista Health Center with questions about their health and well-being receive expert care from providers trained in women’s health.

Women’s health is one of the many services provided at the Rocky Vista Health Center. The clinic also provides services for senior medicine, adult care, Osteopathic Manipulation, sports medicine, diabetes, high blood pressure, and more.

To schedule your appointment please call 720-875-2880.

Rocky Vista Health Center welcomes Dr. Meg Burke, a board-certified internal medicine and geriatric medicine specialist with a passion for medical education, writing, and editing. New to the team, Dr. Burke joined the Rocky Vista Health Center team in the spring of 2023. Dr. Burke earned her undergraduate degree and medical degrees at Georgetown University before completing her internal medicine residency at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. With her extensive experience and dedication to patient care and medical education, Dr. Burke is a valued member of our clinic team.

Douglas County School Board President Mike Peterson

FILE PHOTO

SEE FEES, P5

FEES

statement that the board does not believe that Marshall is “entitled to the full amount of fees and costs he claims but wants to resolve this matter now without an appeal.”

Board members David Ray and Susan Meek said they did not agree with including that in the resolution, but Peterson and others said it re ects their belief that Marshall prolonged the case with appeals.

Ray and Meek also pushed to include an explicit statement that Myers, Peterson, Williams and Winegar violated open meetings law, which the board agreed to.

“We can’t ignore the fact that for the rst time in Douglas County School District history, board members were (found to have) violating law,” Ray said. “We need to document in such a way that protects the system from this happening again and I think part of that is telling the story and the truth.”

In addition to the admission, Ray

suggested the resolution be more robust and include a timeline of major events in the lawsuit, the fact that the district’s insurance would not pay for the lawsuit and an acknowledgement that Marshall won.

While many of Ray’s proposed changes were made, Meek motioned to add to the resolution that the board would evaluate itself for policy adherence moving forward, but it failed 5-2.

During the conversation, Meek and Ray sought more accountability from the board, asking members what they learned from the lawsuit and how the board could do better in the future.

Peterson said he did learn more about the Colorado Open Meetings Law. “I certainly would not have gone about the termination of the superintendent in the way that I did, so that’s a huge lesson learned for me,” he said.

Records requested by Colorado Community Media show that the district has paid $156,400 for its own legal costs between March 11, 2022 and August 10, 2023 to defend the lawsuit.

aftFair & Holiday Market

October 14 & 15 • 9 am to 2 pm

Parker Senior Center 10675 Longs Way, Parker, CO 80138

Come shopping! Local artisans, crafters, artists & authors selling hand-crafted items including jewelry, needle-works, candles, homemade jams, unique gift ideas, holiday & home decor.

Funds available to veterans

Emergency assistance is available for veterans struggling with housing (mortgage/rent), transportation, employment, healthcare or other emergency needs. To apply for the veterans assistance funds, visit douglasveterans.org or call 303-663-6200

There’s art in every corner of Douglas County. Vote for your favorite.

More than 30 pieces in public places throughout Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Parker and Roxborough by the Douglas County ArtEncounters. Visit the sculptures and then vote for your favorite by Jan. 31, 2024. For art locations, voting online and more, visit artencounters.douglas.co.us

CCM wins 29 awards in statewide contest

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Colorado Community Media, a digital and print news operation with 23 newspapers along the Front Range, won 29 awards during the annual Colorado Press Association Better Newspaper Contest.

In the awards presentation at Denver’s Curtis Hotel on Sept. 23, CCM won awards in editorial, advertising and special sections across its regions in the north, east, west and south.

e CCM team won 19 rst-place honors altogether, and the Editorial “sweepstakes” award in its classication among similar-sized newsrooms across the state.

In her third year as publisher of CCM, Linda Shapley said: “Our journalists work hard to make sure they are doing right by their communities, holding o cials accountable and telling the stories of their neighbors. ese awards serve as a little bit of proof that we are doing that job, and we’ll continue to do what’s best for our communities.”

e CCM team had several rstplace honors in the South Metro region, which includes coverage areas in Douglas and Arapahoe counties, and the East Metro region, which includes Parker and Elbert County. In equity reporting, Centennial reporter Tayler Shaw took rst place for her article on the African Diaspora Advisory Collective, while Nina Joss nabbed second with her story about the groups ghting hate crimes.

Shaw also won a second-place award for breaking news in her coverage of a police shooting in Lone Tree last year.

Senior Reporter Ellis Arnold nabbed rst-place honors in the political writing category for his work on the death threats that city and county clerks faced following the 2020 presidential election.

Former reporter Robert Tann had teamed up with South Metro reporter McKenna Harford to win rst place for their work on showing the impacts of fentanyl deaths in the region. Tann, who now works for the Summit Daily News, also won rst

Members of the Colorado Community News team honored the annual Colorado Press Association Better Newspapers Awards event on Sept. 21. Colorado Community Media’s team won 29 awards.

place for an article about reaction to proposals for free community college.

Former CCM reporter Elliott Wenzler, who now works for the Colorado Sun, won a rst-place award for her coverage of water issues facing the Castle Rock community.

South Metro editor elma Grimes took second place in health enterprise reporting for her series looking into the pressure to succeed

on today’s students. She collaborated with two students in Castle Pines on the articles.

e Highlands Ranch Herald also received top honors for website design.

e South Metro team was honored with the Editorial Excellence award, which is based on a cumulative total of awards in the annual contest counted in the “sweepstakes.”

In Elbert County coverage, Chancy Gatlin-Anderson took rst place for her news story that provided a comprehensive look at the life of an election ballot.

CCM swept the special sections category, winning rst and second place for the company’s annual health and wellness guide and spring home and garden section. e sections combine editorial, advertising and design. Advertising director Erin Addenbrooke, elma Grimes, the south metro editor, and designer Ben Wiebesiek managed the award-winning sections. In advertising, Tina Meltzer took rst place for best digital ad.

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

PHOTO BY LINDA SHAPLEY

ADVENTHEALTHPARKER&CASTLEROCKPRESENTS COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA’S 2023WOMEN’SHEALTH&WELLNESSEVENT

FREE CLASSES,SCREENING&ACTIVATIONSCHEDULE

THEGRAB&FLIP(NUTRITION) 10:30/12:30/2:30

VAGINALWELLNESS 11:15

AESTHETICS360LASH&MEDSPAEDUCATIONONWEIGHTLOSS& SEMAGLUTIDESHOTS,THEMISCONCEPTIONSONFILLERS&BOTOX,

ANDSEXUALHEALTH

12:00/1:45/4:00

STILLIRISE:OPIOIDAWARENESS 11:00/3:00

AGINGGRACEFULLY 10:15/1:00

CHOLESTEROLINWOMEN&HOWTOPREVENTIT 11:30

HIGHRISKSCREENING 12:15

BONEHEALTH 1:30/3:30

SURVIORSHIPAFTERBREASTCANCER 2:15

THESECRETTOPERFECTSKIN 1:15

ABALANCEDBODY 3:15

FUNCTIONALMEDICINE 10:00/1:00/4:00

30MINUTEHIT

AESTHETICS360LASH&MEDSPA AGINGRESOURCES

ALTERNATIVESPREGNANCYCENTER

APOTHEKERRY

BANTAM MEDICARESOLUTIONS

BLUESKYCBD

BODY20

BODYBALANCECOACHING

CULLIGANOFDENVER

DITIOFTHEROCKIES

DOTERRA

EGANHYPNOTHERAPY

ELEVATEDDERMATOLOGY

ELLIEMENTALHEALTH

ENTCREDITUNION

FLOURISHFUNCTIONALMEDICINE GENERATIONSSKINCARE

INDIGOBREATHING:BREATHEBETTER,LIVEBETTEREASYTRICKSTO IMPROVEYOURHEALTHANDWELLBEING

10:30/12:45/2:00/3:45

EGANHYPNOTHERAPY

11:15/1:15/3:15

SCREEINGS

BLOODPRESSURE GLUCOSE BMI

MEMORYTESTING

TBDHEALTHSTI/HPV

12:00/2:45/4:30

PIVITOLSPORTSPERFORMANCE: DYNAMICWARMUP

DOMAINSOFWELLNESS 10:15/1:00/3:30

SKINCHECK RESTINGMETABOLICRATE

PRACTICEYOURCPRSKILLS

10:45/12:45/3:45

SELFDEFENSE

12:15/2:00/3:15

KNITTEDKNOCKERS

HAWTHORNEACCUPUNCTURE

HEALTHREBELS

HERAGODDESS

HERBSMADEBYIRISELIZABETHLLC INDIGOBREATH&WELLNESS

INSIDEOUTWELLNESS

JEWLSFORHOPE

JUICEPLUS

KAISERPERMANETE

KICKHOUSE{PARKER}

LIMACUPUNCTURECLINIC MADEWELLWITHMICHELE

MDAESTHETICS&BODYSCULPTING

MJFIT

NORWEX

NUTTYMACS

PARKERDENTISTRY

VENDORS SPONSORS

SHADOWBOXING

11:30/1:15/2:30/4:15

PIVITOLSPORTSPREFORMANCE

PURESKIN&LASH

THESUGARDETOXCOACH{RENEA PAULSEN}

ROADSCHOLAR

SANTOSHASTUDIOSYOGA& WELLNESS

SKINCARE&MOORE

SUNMOUNTAINBATHCO

TBDHEALTH

THEFOUNTAINOFYOUTHMEDSPA

THIRTY-ONEGIFTS

THREEAFITNESS

VALLEYHOPE

VIBEFOODS

YANAM2M

YOUNIQUE

Call first: 9233 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree, CO 80124

Mailing Address: 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110

Phone: 303-566-4100

Web: ParkerChronicle.net

To subscribe call 303-566-4100

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com

MICHAEL DE YOANNA Editor-in-Chief michael@coloradocommunitymedia.com

THELMA GRIMES South Metro Editor tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com

HALEY LENA Community Editor hlena@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN FRANKS Production Manager efranks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Columnists & Guest Commentaries

Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Chronicle. We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Email letters to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Deadline

Tues. for the following week’s paper.

Veterans services o cer uses own experiences to help

Gary Weston joins dedicated team

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A Vietnam veteran does not wear a hat or T-shirt to gain recognition from strangers, but instead to connect with former soldiers who lived through one of the nation’s most controversial wars.

With tears in his eyes, Gary Weston, the new veterans services o cer for Douglas County, said those who served during Vietnam understand. It’s those former soldiers who know what happened in the jungles of Vietnam and it’s them who support each other.

As Weston begins working with Douglas County to help local veterans, it’s his own experiences, his own depression and his own bouts with PTSD that he brings to a table built on understanding, kindness and care.

Weston, who served with both the Navy and Marine Corps, talked about how he was a clinician in Vietnam. He was assigned to a unit where he was responsible for keeping troops healthy and moving through battle elds.

With the words “Vietnam Veteran” on his collared shirt, Weston leans back in his chair and vividly recalls the days of walking through a jungle where rain was constant, and troops struggled with their feet and getting cuts that could quickly become infected.

As the unit clinician, Weston said he just had to keep them healthy and ready to hike 20 miles a day.

and fuzzy,” he said. “ at’s not what we got.”

Now, decades later, Weston recalls those days with tears, emotion and pride. He became emotional as he talked about a stranger in a grocery store acknowledging his Vietnam veteran hat.

“She asked if I served in the war,” he said. “She asked if she could give me a hug. She hugged me and said ‘thank you.’ I waited 54 years to hear those words.”

Before the pandemic in 2020, Weston said he sought help, stressing that members of the military are considered tough and over the years there was a stigma around asking for help. Going through the pandemic and getting help, Weston said he now understands his triggers, and more clearly comprehends what he went through and how to deal with it. Using that knowledge, Weston, who had been volunteering for Douglas County, said it’s time to give back and his new position is going to help him do that.

Weston said he meets daily with veterans, noting that he can tell who has PTSD by their actions and answers to questions.

He described an interaction with one veteran who came in for assistance and made his way to Weston’s desk.  After talking for a while, the former soldier told him that he is struggling with life and his marriage is having trouble.

justed suicide rate for veterans was 23.3 per 100,000 in 2001 and 31.7 per 100,000 in 2020. For non-veteran U.S. adults, the suicide rate was 12.6 per 100,000 in 2001 and 16.1 per 100,000 in 2020.

Veterans being homeless is also tied to suicide rates. According to the VA, veterans who experience homelessness are at higher risk of committing suicide, sharing many of the risk factors, including substance abuse, mental illness, adverse childhood experiences, social isolation and unemployment.

According to the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, Veterans make up 9% of the state’s homeless population.

Weston praised Douglas County for what it is doing in continually expanding mental health services to specically address the needs of veterans.

Chris Maes, of the Douglas County Veterans Service O ce, said when the service o cer position became open, Weston was one of the best options.

“Gary’s contribution to the team over the past few weeks has been invaluable,” he said. “I appreciate all of the energy and enthusiasm he has when it comes to helping veterans and their families. We’re grateful to have such a talented individual on our team helping veterans and their families.”

Parker Chronicle

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

Send address change to: Parker Chronicle, 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225, Englewood, CO 80110

Coming home, Weston described a di erent scenario for Vietnam veterans, unlike what American soldiers faced in World War I and World War II. In the world wars, soldiers typically were shipped to battlegrounds in units, in groups that became friends and partners, forming lifelong friendships.

In Vietnam, Weston said troops were own to their units where they did not stay long and likely did not form strong bonds. ey were own home in planes with 150 others who were strangers.

Once home, it wasn’t like the other U.S. wars. Instead, soldiers were not greeted.

“Greeted means something warm

Weston proudly talked about helping the veteran get with the AllHealth organization where he is seeking therapy and hopefully will move forward with getting help.

Weston said helping today’s veterans is not just about military service and war, but also pressure from today’s world. With in ation continually increasing, and society being negative in general, Weston said it all can impact a veteran’s mental health.

“I want to help one soldier a week,” Weston said. “I wish I could help them all, but I will start with one.”

Veterans continue to be a vulnerable population as suicide and homeless rates continue to rise in the U.S.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans A airs 2022 National Suicide Prevention Annual Report, the unad-

Douglas County Commissioner George Teal, who advocates for veteran services, said there are just under 20,000 veterans living in Douglas County, and making sure services are available to help is a top priority.

Teal said Douglas County continues to work toward setting high standards for helping veterans, and added that the program has received state and national attention.

In choosing Weston for the position, Teal said it is important to choose men and women who have “walked the walked and lived the life of a soldier.”

“We choose folks who have lived that life and have that experience to transition from military life to general population and understand what it is like,” Teal said. “Veterans who choose to make Douglas County home are the best of us, and they are one of us. is is the place for those who have experienced the harshness of the battle eld to nd a home and nd peace.”

Douglas County hosts regional summit on property taxes

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

An unusually large spike in home values and an impending jump in property tax bills pushed Douglas County o cials to call a meeting of local government leaders in hopes they may act to blunt the impact to residents.

At that “summit” meeting, county commissioners oated the possibility of taking action for property tax relief at the county level, while representatives of smaller local entities expressed willingness to do the same or voiced concern with managing tight budgets.

“We haven’t made any nal decisions, but we’re discussing” a plan to lower the county-level tax rate, Commissioner Abe Laydon said during the Sept. 25 meeting at the commissioners’ headquarters in Castle Rock.

Local taxes are in the spotlight after homeowners around the Denver metro area checked a notice from their county assessors this spring and saw that their home value had jumped by sometimes shocking amounts.

Driven by a costly real-estate market, those home values — as calculated for tax purposes — have spiked since the last time homeowners received notices of value two years ago. In Douglas County, residential properties faced increases between 30% and 60%, with a median of 47%.

e high increase in property values means families’ property tax bills could jump up next year.

at’s because when property val-

change.

is year’s increase could mean owing thousands more dollars in taxes for a typical home, according to Toby Damisch, head of the county’s property valuation o ce.

e tax impact could change if the county and other local entities change their “mill levies,” or property tax rates. Property taxes partly fund county governments, but they also fund re rescue agencies, library districts and other local entities.

e event in Castle Rock was planned to discuss “how we can collaborate on a plan to reduce the total mill rates that impact Douglas County property owners,” says an “open letter” from the county com-

Rock

To learn more about

of Je erson County but also the Roxborough area, expressed concerns

Parker Parker

“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.”

Bahá’u’lláh

the Baha’i Faith or find a gathering, please contact us.

information from the event that drew a crowd of representatives of local entities.

Douglas County Commissioner George Teal, right, speaks Sept. 25 at the commissioners’ headquarters in Castle Rock. Along with Treasurer David Gill, left, Teal spoke as part of a panel discussion on property tax rates.

PHOTO BY ELLIS ARNOLD

SEE TAX SUMMIT, P10

TAX SUMMIT

about changes to the increase in property tax revenue that local entities could receive in next year’s taxes.

“We are seeing 30% (to) 40% increases in some of our major assets. A re truck that I could have purchased a few years ago for $800,000 now (costs) $1.2 million,” said Jeremy Metz, deputy chief of administration for West Metro Fire.

He added that the agency has not increased its mill levy since 2008 and has managed to get by so far but is “concerned about decreasing revenue.”

A leader with the small underbird Water and Sanitation District in the Sedalia area explained that his agency runs on a tight budget.

“We just went into a signi cant amount of debt to drill another well so we can feel con dent we can (provide) potable water,” said Barry Gager, district treasurer. He added: “I’ve been sitting here thinking what, if anything, there is we could do with respect to our mill levy. And we’ve always tried to keep it as low as possible.”

On the other hand, at least one metropolitan district had plans to lower its tax rate or issue a rebate, with an o cial saying the district doesn’t need a bump in funding.

Metro districts, such as Highlands Ranch, are a type of government en-

tity that can o er some government services.

“Looks like we would have a 50% windfall increase if we don’t do anything. We don’t need that,” said John Cowan, president of the Cherokee Ridge Estates metro district. He added: “We’re looking at an option of either reducing the mill (levy) or doing a rebate.”

County leaders’ plan

At a broader level around Douglas, the county commissioners may consider a plan to make a large cut to the county-level property tax rate, lowering the potential increase in revenue the county stands to take in from next year’s tax bills.

Today, the county-level tax rate is about 18.5 mills. A “mill” is one thousandth of a dollar. For example, with a rate of 10 mills, a property owner pays about $10 for every $1,000 in “assessed” value of a home.

e property tax equation also involves a number called the “assessment rate,” another factor that helps determine how much in property taxes a person owes, along with the mill levy and the home’s value.

Without Colorado’s Gallagher Amendment — a former part of the state constitution that voters recently repealed — the state legislature sets the assessment rate.

Douglas County’s commissioners may consider a reduction of roughly 4 mills, or about a 23% cut. at equates to about a $47 million decrease in revenue the county would

take in, according to Commissioner Lora omas.

e commissioners also gave discounts to taxpayers in recent years through what’s called a “temporary mill levy credit.” e county has authorized such credits in 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023, e ectively lowering county revenue by $30 million.

But the county-level property tax rate is just one of many di erent property tax rates that combine to determine how much a Douglas County homeowner will pay in taxes.

To see the list of local government entities you pay taxes to — and how much in estimated taxes goes to each entity — go to douglas.co.us/ assessor and enter your address in the “property search” bar, click the result, scroll down and click “tax authorities.”

Recent action

Some residents may wonder why their property values jumped so high this year. e property valuation that homeowners received around early May is based on data as of June 2022, near the recent peak in the realestate market.

So even though home prices have declined since then, property values from the county assessor’s o ce re ect last year’s exceptional highs.

In Douglas County, residential properties this year faced increases in value between 30% and 60%, with a median of 47%.

After many homeowners in Douglas County led challenges, or ap-

peals, to blunt the increase on their home values, the median increase slid down a slight bit.

at number will come down even more — for a combined total of around a few percentage points — after the commissioners took a vote that a ects homeowners across the county, not just those who led appeals.

e move, approved by the commissioners Sept. 19, will provide an average of $223 in estimated property tax relief for owners of single-family homes, townhomes or condominiums, or a 4% adjustment.

See more details in Colorado Community Media’s story at tinyurl.com/ ValueLower.

How Colorado compared

Damisch, the county assessor, gave an example of how this year’s increase in property values may impact a home’s property taxes.

For tax purposes, for a home with a 2022 value of about $636,000 that paid about $6,000 in estimated taxes, at a 2023 value of about $980,000, estimated taxes would total about $9,000, according to Damisch’s example.

Countywide, the median increase in Douglas County home values of 47% could lead to a roughly 35% to 40% typical increase in property taxes in 2024, according to the “open letter” to local government entities from the county commis-

SEE TAX SUMMIT, P11

sioners. has property dential were try,”

TAX SUMMIT

FROM PAGE 10

sioners.

In the broader picture, Colorado has had relatively low residential property taxes.

“If you go back a few years, residential property taxes in Colorado were some of the lowest in the country,” Damisch said.

at’s supported by an analysis by the conservative Tax Foundation. Colorado ranked 47th in property taxes paid as a percentage of owneroccupied housing value in 2020, according to the foundation. And while businesses pay more, their taxes still appear to be lower than the national average, according to the Colorado Sun. Colorado had the 17th best “State Business Tax Climate” for 2020, according to the Tax Foundation.

SPONSOR OF WOMEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS EVENT 10.13.23

AdventHealth - Connected with our Douglas County community and the women who live here

October serves as Breast Cancer Awareness Month – a time of the year to bring attention to one of the most common forms of cancer and give thanks to those who are on the front lines fighting for their patients.

The teams at AdventHealth Castle Rock and Parker are committed to saving lives with the early detection of breast cancer, and if the unthinkable happens, offer hope and support when it matters most.

At AdventHealth Castle Rock, the Breast Care Center provides a personalized and compassionate approach to breast health that feels more like a day at the spa than in the hospital.

In diagnosing breast cancer, the center offers advanced diagnostic technology such as 3D mammography, MRI-guided biopsy, and is one of the few to offer automated screening breast ultrasound (ABUS) in Denver. To help give patients a clearer picture of the risks, the center can provide genetic counseling. Together, they can define your possible health risks, including your risk of breast cancer.

If you are diagnosed, the team at AdventHealth Parker is there to ensure you won’t face it alone. Working as a team, surgeons, oncologists, and other providers will come together to customize a complete breast cancer treatment plan.

Along with a full range of treatment options, they offer extra support for patients and their loved ones. A cancer diagnosis is life changing for everyone involved, and to help families with this process is a personal nurse navigator. Nurse navigators are trained, registered nurses who help find you the support you need and will answer questions, assist with appointments, and ease your mind. Renee Herman has been a nurse navigator at AdventHealth Parker for five years.

“My job is to bring patients some reassurance. To let them know we’re with them, help them understand this is a great team and that they will be well taken care of,” says Renee.

Once a patient has received their diagnosis, Renee invites them to the AdventHealth Parker Cancer Center for an inperson meeting where she explains the process and hands them a treatment handbook. She connects patients with their care teams and gives them an idea of what to expect. Treatment may include a combination of options such as chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone therapy.

“All of our patients leave here feeling educated and saying they feel so much better about this journey. They know that our oncologists, surgeons, and nurses are all working collaboratively to give them the best outcome possible.”

For Renee, helping patients goes beyond the medical treatment. AdventHealth Parker offers complimentary therapies meant to focus on the whole person. That includes individual and family counseling, as well as monthly support groups. There’s even a support group for children whose parents have been diagnosed. Nutrition services are also available from registered dietitians who are board-certified in oncology nutrition. Physical therapists certified in lymphedema therapy may also be a part of the treatment plan for patients who experience swelling.

“We work with every part of the person to make them feel whole. From spirituality to dietary needs, physical therapists, support groups and more. Never in my career have I felt like I function alone, or that I should function alone, because I see what it means to be a part of a treatment team and see it work so well,” says Renee.

To help spread awareness of breast cancer and empower women to take charge of their health, AdventHealth Castle Rock and AdventHealth Parker, along with Colorado Community Media, will host the 2023 Women’s Health and Wellness event.

“We love supporting our local community and believe that it is important to be connected with our Douglas County community and the women who live here,” said Lisa Hinton, AdventHealth Castle Rock Director of Outpatient Services.

The 2023 Women’s Health and Wellness event will be held on Friday, October 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Parker Fieldhouse. Discover the latest trends in health and wellness, get free health screenings, and connect with fellow women who share a passion for healthy living. Included in the event will be informative workshops, fitness classes, and even health and wellness vendors. We hope to see you there!

Solid Denver foundation, now you’re scaling up in Omaha.

National 4-H Week puts focus on clubs

Signup window launches in mid-October

BY COURTNEY FAY

TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Many have heard of the 4-H youth program, especially in Elbert County. But there is much more to it than most people, even those who have children involved or who have been involved themselves, probably realize. And this is National 4-H Week, a great time to learn about the organization.

4-H is a community for youth ages 5-18 where its participants learn leadership, citizenship and life skills. Its roots date back to 1902 and today it’s the largest out-of-school youth development program in the nation, making it quite in uential in how kids view themselves and the world around them.

e program is delivered through Cooperative Extension, a community of 100 public universities throughout the nation, and provides unique opportunities for youth to

“learn by doing.”

e “H” stands for four words

— head, heart, hands and health

— emphasizing the importance of youth connecting with their communities, being well-informed and engaged. 4-H participants will take part in club meetings, participate in various activities with friends, present educational demonstra-

SAt. October 14, 2023

tions, master new skills with handson projects, and have fun at fairs, camps and in contests. 4-H is not just for kids; the program relies on adult volunteers to provide leadership, expertise, knowledge and passion to assist 4-H members. is is a program that in uences multiple generations.

For children ages 5-7, Cloverbud programming is available. e focus here is more activity-based rather than project completion and emphasizes cooperative learning. Cloverbud members take part in age-appropriate activities designed to allow participants to sample a

variety of o erings in a supervised setting. Additionally, Elbert County Cloverbuds have the opportunity to participate in Cloverbud Camp each year the rst full week in June, Monday through ursday in the mornings. is camp is free to Elbert County Cloverbud 4-H members. 4-H provides innumerable opportunities for its participants to expand knowledge, learn new skills and nd new passions. 4-H programs are available in every county and parish in the United States. Program areas range from STEM

Elbert County 4-H participant with prize-winning chicken.

PHOTO BY COURTNEY FAY

An Elbert County 4-H group participates in a rocket flying activity.

PHOTO FROM THE ELBERT COUNTY EXTENSION OFFICE WEBSITE

SEE 4-H, P22

School board candidates form coalition

BY MCKENNA HARFORD MHARFORD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

More Douglas County school board candidates are teaming up to run as the Community Voice, Community Choice coalition.

Incumbent Susan Meek and candidates Brad Geiger and Valerie Thompson created the Community Voice, Community Choice coalition with a platform of attracting and retaining staff, building a safe and welcoming climate and culture, and restoring trust with the community.

The coalition advocates for the $66 million mill levy override and the $484 million bond on the ballot this November, which would help the district increase staff pay and build new schools, respectively.

Meek currently represents the District A seat, which covers western Highlands Ranch, and is running for a second term against Andy Jones. Geiger is running for the District C seat, representing eastern Highlands Ranch, and faces David DiCarlo and Jason Page, who was appointed to the board in June.

Thompson is running for the District F seat, covering south Parker and the Pinery, against Maria Sumnicht.

Douglas County school board candidates Brad Geiger, Susan Meek and Valerie Thompson canvas for their slate, the Community Voice, Community Choice coalition, in Douglas County. Geiger, Meek and Thompson are running on a platform of ensuring a safe, welcoming culture, supporting sta and restoring community trust.

Sumnicht and Thompson are running to replace school board member David Ray, who is termlimited.

In a statement announcing the coalition, Meek, Geiger and Thompson said they are dedicated to serving the district and representing the community’s voice. Meek has spent 16 years working in public education and, as a school board member, helped draft the district’s original equity

policy, supported the acquisition of the Legacy Campus for career and technical education, encouraged the return of accountability reporting and helped launch the new community engagement plan.

Meek said her priorities include focusing on success for every student, creating an inclusive and safe environment and improving transparency and community engagement.

Geiger is an attorney who serves on the Juvenile Parole Board and has volunteered in the district for nine years on the Long Range Planning Committee and the Mill Bond Exploratory Committee. Geiger said he would focus on local solutions, addressing funding needs and creating a plan for areas of declining enrollment.

Thompson works in community

health and health education and she sits on the District Accountability Committee and the Mill Bond Oversight Committee. Some of the priorities Thompson said she would have as a board member include putting students first, ensuring fiscal responsibility and supporting teachers and staff.

According to campaign finance records from the Secretary of State’s Office, the three candidates have raised almost $50,000. Meek has received $19,488, Geiger has raised $18,405 and Thompson has raised $11,278.

The Community Voice, Community Choice coalition is the second slate of candidates to form for this election. Jones, Page and Sumnicht are running as the Best DCSD slate.

The election is Nov. 7.

PHOTO COURTESY COMMUNITY VOICE

Property tax challenges

Over the last few weeks, o cials in Douglas County have been working to nd a workaround to mitigate the property tax increases that came this year.

I de nitely can give the commissioners a lot of grief over a variety of things — but on this one, I applaud what they are doing.

ey are doing something our state’s elected leaders failed to do — they are attacking the issue head on and trying to nd a true solution. Will their plans work? Only time will tell. However, they are trying to get Douglas County some kind of relief using an old law.

e other thing our Douglas County o cials did was call a regional “tax summit” in late September. ey held it with regional leaders, not just in Douglas County. e commissioners clearly understand the issue and know it a ects all of the state and not just them.

During the recent summit, Douglas County hosted metro district leaders, elected o cials and more to discuss what the concerns are. We had metro re o cials talking about the worries over how they will make ends meet, over the cost of a re truck that once sold for $800,000 and has now increased to more than $1.2 million.

e property tax issues do not just sit on the doorstep of homeowners. No — this problem will a ect our re districts, metro districts, and school districts.

Douglas County Assessor Toby Damisch gave some eye-popping numbers for homeowners. In 2022, a home valued at $636,000 had homeowners paying about $6,000 in taxes. In 2023, that same home, valued at $980,000,

will likely cost upwards of $9,000. With in ation, a tough economy and families being strapped for cash — that is a huge increase for us to manage.

Douglas County is doing something the state should have been doing in the 2023 session. ey are trying to nd some kind of relief for hard-working families. ey are trying to nd a solution.

For the state, the legislature introduced Proposition HH three days before the 2023 session ended. No time for debate, not time to sort it out — they passed it, and from what I can see, the Democratic leaders assumed it would just be passed by voters this November.

I think my mother-in-law summed up what Proposition HH really is — It’s nothing more than an attack on TABOR, or Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights. It’s not a property tax relief bill, it’s a way to attack and get around TABOR.

As I have tried to understand and give Proposition HH a fair shot, I have to agree with opponents — it does not address this pressing property tax issue.

While I do not tell other voters what they should do, I have to say I will be voting no on the measure this November.

In late September, the Colorado Association of Realtors announced that the organization is also opposed to Proposition HH.

State Rep. Lisa Frizell, R-Castle Rock, introduced a bill last year to tackle this issue with plenty of time to discuss, debate and sort out in the 2023 session. It could not even make it out of committee.

I think Frizell has a pretty good “I told you so” moment coming as she continues to make the rounds pressing for the state to call a special session and force our selected leaders to take actual action because Proposition HH is not your answer.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Rein in metro districts

During a recent town hall meeting with Douglas County o cials concerning property tax, a question was asked about oversight of metro districts and their taxing authority. e response by county commissioners was they only have oversight on their own Douglas County mill levy and not of metro districts. If I am not mistaken, didn’t local or county governments approve these metro districts when the developer submitted their plans? If so, shouldn’t local or county o cials have oversight of these separate taxing authorities? Taxpayers have oversight of other taxing districts like schools, re districts, etc. through voting but since the developers control boards of these metro districts, homeowners have none. After the debt for developing a subdivision are paid, does the taxing district go away? I think not! ey just re nance to continue taxing and taking in money. If government allows these districts to exist, shouldn’t taxpayers have more oversight?

Dave Usechek Parker

Lopsided coverage

I continue to be amazed at the lopsided news coverage of political corruption. Either we’re told, “Nothing to see here!” — or we focus incessantly on one person’s wrongdoing to the exclusion of others. While it may appear to be common practice in D.C. for politicians’ net worth to raise over time with in uence monies, the pathway there is fully known to be scattered with ever-drifting piles of shriveled, fallen leaves from once-ethical-appearing trees.

I believe every politician needs to be audited. If Martha Stewart can be jailed for insider trading, so should our representatives who obviously seem to have the right timing for curiously successful nancial gains. While I applaud the recent indictment of Menendez for blatant bribery with all the fantastical stories of money stu ed in clothing, we hear little about the Biden family. We turn away from uncomfortable reports of suspicious bank activity, multiple LLCs, over 5,000+ emails with pseudonyms, scads of texts/emails/ messages/voicemails, recorded

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

Thelma Grimes

Flamenco coming to DU

The Gates Concert Hall at the Newman Center will be the location for “Raices,” staged by Maria Vasquez and Nino de Los Reyes at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 13. Flamenco Denver will bring Maria Vasquez, Nino de Los Reyes and Francisco Orozco. “Raices” is a Spanish word for “roots” or “beginnings” and the concert will explore the roots of Flamenco. Dancer Nino de Los Reyes, and cantores (singers) Amparo Heredia and Francisco Orozco will be accompanied by musicians Jose Manuel Alconcel (guitar) and Diego Alvarez (percussion). Tickets: newmancenterpresents.com or 303-871-7720.

Looking at Greece

“ e Greek Eye” is at Colorado Gallery of the Arts at Arapahoe Community College, 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive in Littleton, through

LETTERS

FROM PAGE 12

conversations, whistleblower testimony, and even actual photos and trip records. I always found it comical that several years ago we constantly heard about Trump’s “quid pro quo” with Ukraine, yet we hid or downplayed the video of Joe bragging about withholding $1 billion in Ukrainian aid until the prosecutor was red.

Not only are Lady Justice’s scales lopsided, but her blindfold is askew, too.

Linda Mazunik Lone Tree

SONYA’S SAMPLER

Oct. 27, including works created by Workforce and Community Travel Program students who visited Greece in June 2023. A reception is planned for Sept. 27 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Tesoro lecture series e Historic Tesoro lecture series begins in mid-October at the Fort restaurant in Morrison, accompanied by dinner. e lectures will also be available at several South Suburban recreation centers. e lectures are: e Widowed Ones: Beyond the Battle of the Little Bighorn; e Night

SEE FLAMENCO, P18

to Dougco schools for the last 12 of the 47 years I have paid Dougco property taxes without having a student in the district. Multiply this by four, add investment losses on this money, and this could easily add up to more than $75,000. Until COVID-19 came along I felt it was my civic duty to support our schools and was thrilled when our neighborhood kids were standouts at Douglas County H.S. Some 1976 HS seniors old enough to be grandparents. Hey! Mike and Michelle.

Let’s talk turkey

I am giving away my age by using the term “let’s talk turkey” and this letter is addressed to this over-70 crowd who are Dougco homeowners. How many of you would write a $16,000 check to our current school board without asking pointed questions? No one in their right mind would do this, but I’m betting the majority of homeowning seniors have quietly written larger checks over the same span of time this $16,000 represents.

is $16,000 is my contribution

Fast-forward to 2023. COVID exposed us to an ugly political underbelly of many elected o cials and parents in the county. Many refused to acknowledge that COVID was a risk, wear masks or allow their kids to be vaccinated, exposing fellow students and teachers alike to this health risk. Books were banned and school board meetings erupted into shouting matches with teachers and medical professionals being labeled as the “county bad guys.” I believe this toxic climate, not salaries, contributed to many teachers leaving our county for more teacher-friendly environments. I would like to hear from other senior homeowners on this subject.

Roy Legg Highlands Ranch

THE ART OF ARTISTS SHARING THEIR LOVE FOR HORROR

BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Whether it’s putting a personalized spin on a classic character or creating brand-new monsters and ghouls, artists in the horror genre nd endless possibilities when it comes to their artwork and how they choose to express themselves.

“ e genre of horror is the most expansive,” said Xander Smith, a concept artist in the entertainment industry. “You can do anything with it… you can go to the deepest depths of the human psyche.”

Among his many titles, Smith is also a digital sculptor and 3D modeler, where he has worked on shows like “American Horror Story” and “Scream Queens” as well as blockbuster movies like “Godzilla vs. Kong.”

Smith was one of dozens of artists state and nationwide who joined local artists at the Colorado Festival of Horrors in Lone Tree from Sept. 15 to 17 to share their love for art and horror.

Many of these artists were inspired by a memory of their childhood that they had with a family member either watching horror and sci- movies, reading comic books or looking at magazines.

Sources of inspiration

Creator and artist Barry McClain

LIFE

things to make them look a little bit di erent, or more dynamic, interesting or scary,” she said.

Although she didn’t start showing her art until last year, Numri said she has found the most supportive and amazing friends in the horror community.

Di erent forms of art

said he was drawn into horror because of his mom, and he couldn’t be more grateful.

While growing up, McClain’s mom used to tell him about the makeup in horror movies, like when an actor would bite on a blood bag to make blood come out their mouth. She also read Fangoria Magazine on a regular basis.

”I used to look through this Fangoria Magazine all the time and I was just enamored with all the blood and guts,” McClain said.

Along with reading various horror comics and watching “Tales from the Crypt,” McClain started to draw monsters.

As an adult, McClain now draws horror posters and works for Troma Entertainment.

Part of his drawing process includes watching horror movies and using the references as accuracy to inspire his own work, McClain starts by drawing with pencil and ink before scanning it onto the computer, where he then colors it in on Photoshop.

Although he does artwork for the sci- and action-adventure genres, McClain said that the horror genre is his favorite because it’s more fun and also, the subject matter, storytelling and messaging is so broad.

It may be hard to believe, but there are always positive messages in horror movies, he added. ese types of movies tend to involve some kind of comeuppance and stories often teach moral values, which is what gravitates McClain to the genre.

McClain has re ected that in his own comic book, “Billy the Kit.” It’s

a horror Western story about faith and how the main character’s world is bigger than what his “bubble of faith” is, which he learns as he gains his power.

Additionally, McClain likes to teach other artists how to market themselves. He said it’s not about marketing sexuality or race, it’s about entertainment.

“I want to be seen as an artist, not a Black artist,” McClain said.

For Joe Oliver, an artist in Littleton, creating horror-themed pieces is cathodic to express and speaks to primal instincts.

“I think it’s the most honest expression of emotions that connects with people,” Oliver said. “Everything can be horror and I think a lot of the time because we’ve experienced sadness and horror, it allows us to appreciate the good as well.”

In addition to doing artwork for comic books, Oliver has also worked for Fangoria Magazine, Alamo Drafthouse and Macaulay Culkin.

He said the easiest way to create something unique is to create stu you want to see. Using pencil, pen and digital, Oliver creates everything from cartoon to graphic images and uses di erent e ects to express those pieces.

“I love di erent techniques and I try to do di erent styles based on what I’m feeling and how best to express that idea,” Oliver said.

Dee Nurmi of DC Custom Creations LLC uses glow-in-the-dark paint to add a playful yet haunting e ect to her paintings.

Painting characters from “ e Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Courage the Cowardly Dog,” Numri said she is a cartoonist at heart and has always had her own weird style.

“I’m able to kind of translate that into my pictures and warp some

From scriptwriting to video editing, from costume design to building a prop, art is in every aspect of the horror genre.

Daniel Crosier, mixed media artist and co-founder of Colorado Festival of Horrors said whether it’s traditional sketching or digital art, there will be people who love it and people who are put o by it.

After using 3D programming to create costumes and props with the costume department for “American Horror Story,” Xander Smith is currently working with Arti cial Intelligence.

“Even though the market is ooded with machine-made imagery, humans tend to value it less,” Smith said.

As a professional artist with experience in Hollywood, Smith said that he is seeing a lot of support for traditional artists, however, only time will tell.

While thinking about what to draw in front of a room full of people, Smith was inspired by the fashion design as it is often di cult to combine creepy and elegant.

Smith was not the only artist who likes to dabble with fashion, Colleen Cole uses her artistic talent to create costumes and clothing items, specically hand-sewn skirts with pockets.

She combines her love for horror and sewing by making made-to-order skirts with designs found online, including a glow-in-the-dark fang design.

Cole is also the owner of Commanding Cosplay LLC, a cosplayer, designer and model. She makes her own costumes and does makeup herself and creates amazing images.

“I’ve always enjoyed Halloween,” said Cole. “Making costumes as characters that I either love the aesthetic or the character itself, is a lot of fun for me.”

Artwork for the third Colorado Festival of Horror. The three-day interactive experience took place Sept. 15-17 at the Marriott Denver

With a portfolio of his work and stickers he had made, artist Joe Oliver sits in his booth at the 2023 Colorado Festival of Horror. In between talking with guests, he had a sketch pad in front of him and continued to draw.

South at Park Meadows. COURTESY OF DANIEL CROSIER

Artist Dee Nurmi poses with her glow-in-the-dark paintings of characters from films and cartoons. She also brought stickers and smaller pieces of artwork.

PHOTO BY HALEY LENA

Colleen Cole, cosplayer and comic creator, sews a colorful “Star Wars” skirt before hanging it up as part of her collection at her booth.

PHOTO BY HALEY LENA

PHOTO BY HALEY LENA

e Stars Fell; Hawaiians and the Fur Trade; Colorado and the Civil War; Colorado: e Highest State; A Tribute to Howard Lamar; Kit Carson — Mountain Man; More Work an Glory: Bu alo Soldiers in the United States Army, 18661916 — An Overview; and e Fall of Bent’s Fort — 175 Years Later. For lecture information, locations and dates, go to TesoroCulturalCenter.org and click on “Historic Lecture Series” or call 303-8391671.

Things to do in Lakewood

e new Bravo magazine is available in Lakewood, listing classes and events. Pick up a copy at a government building. Lots happening, from Flamenco to holiday decorations ...

Littleton exhibit

“Side by Side” is the current show at Littleton Fine Arts Guild’s Depot Art Gallery, 2069 W. Powers Ave. Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. See depotartgallery.org.

Check out museum Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St., o ers “Wonder Wednesdays” and a new exhibit of works by Taiko Chandler, “ oughtful

Intuition,” through Jan. 7, 2024.

‘Dreamgirls’

Lone Tree Arts Center will produce “Dreamgirls,” directed by Kenny Moten Oct. 19 to 29 at Lone Tree Arts Center., 10075 Commons St. See lonetreeartscenter.org or call 720-509-1000.

Hudson Gardens

Hudson Holidays at Hudson Gardens and Event Center in Littleton will have a new show with immersive lighting, according to South Suburban. See hudsongardens.org.

Aurora Fox

e Aurora Fox Mainstage

eater, 9900 E. Colfax Ave., will stage “Blues in the Night” through October 8. Tickets: $28-$40. See aurorafox.org or call 303-739-1970.

Craft fair

A Holiday Craft Fair will be held at Arapahoe Community College, 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive, on Nov. 17-18. Plan to shop. Crafters who want to sell work should inquire in advance: trishsangelo@arapahoe. edu.

Miners Alley

Miners Alley, 1224 Washington Ave., Golden, o ers “ e Cherry Orchard,” in a new version by Staples. 303-935-3044. See minersalley.com or call 303-935-3044.

Thu 10/12

Zac Brown Band - VIP

Upgrades

@ 5pm

Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre, 6350 Greenwood Plaza Blvd., En‐glewood

Touch Sensitive @ 7pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Englewood

Sat 10/14

Voices West Presents: Grand & Glorious Opera Choruses @ 6:30pm / $25

St. Timothy's Episcopal Church, 1401 E Dry Creek Rd, Centennial. marketing@voiceswest.org, 303683-8622

Sun 10/15

Denise Rosier: Mile Hi ChurchDenver, CO [8AM & 10AM] @ 9am Mile Hi Church, 9077 W Alameda Ave, Lakewood

Soundularity Sound

Journey+Meet & Greet @ Cherokee Ranch & Castle @ 3:30pm

Cherokee Ranch & Castle, 6113 N Daniels Park Rd, Sedalia

Tue 10/17

Thunderstorm Artis @ 6pm

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

King Calaway @ 6pm

Fiddlers Green Amphitheater, 6501 S Fid‐dlers Green Cir, Greenwood Village

Maddy Smith: (7:30 PM) Comedy Works South @ 6:30pm

Comedy Works South, 5345 Landmark Pl, Greenwood Village

Brightenstar @ 6pm

Squirrel Creek Lodge, 8109 Blakeland Dr, Littleton

Anavrin's Day at the Angry Clover @ 7pm

McCarthy's Sports Bar & Grill, 15350 E Smoky Hill Rd, Aurora

Mikaela Davis @ 7pm

Gothic Theatre, 3263 S Broadway, Engle‐wood

Dave Mensch - Tailgate Tavern - Parker, CO @ 11am

Tailgate Tavern & Grill, 19552 Mainstreet, Parker

Vamonos Pest/Mobro: Vamonos Pest plays Festival at Waterstone Church @ 11:30am

Waterstone Church, 5890 S Alkire St, Lit‐tleton

Tony Medina Music: The Tues‐day Night Open Mic at the Alley Hosted by Tony Medina @ 5:30pm The Alley, 2420 W Main St, Little‐ton

powered by

So much to do in current arts season

orchestras are sometimes possible and there are so many opportunities ...

BY SONYA ELLINGBOE SELLINGBOE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

e Newman Center at the University of Denver hosted the elegant Martha Graham Dance Company recently, Englewood Arts presented the impressive Boulder-based Lirios String Quartet and we can look forward to a season lled with music and arts throughout the metro area ... I’m excited!

We’ll try to keep our readers caught up on opportunities to listen and look as they develop around us — note to publicists — I really need three week’s notice or more to get listings in before press time. And we love to have photos of performers. Can’t always t them, but we certainly hope to have the option when possible ... Brief stories about soloists with your many excellent

Local symphonic orchestras play in Littleton, Parker, Lone Tree, Englewood, Castle Rock and more, bringing us music from across the world. Traveling artists join with them to broaden the vision even more. Today, Sept. 26, I’m typing for the Oct. 5 papers.

Word came today from the Cherry Creek Chorale about a program called “With Strings Attached” at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 13/14 at Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden Ave., Cherry Hills Village. Bethany Lutheran Church has wonderful acoustics, lots of parking and a pleasing ambience for the many programs it hosts, as does Littleton United Methodist Church, performance home to the Littleton Symphony and location for an extensive program of weekend concerts at 7589 S. Datura St. Not yet received, but perhaps by next week ... e Littleton Symphony, led by Dr. Catherine Sailer, plans concerts throughout the year. Announce-

AUCTION GOVERNMENT EQUIPMENT

675+ ITEMS SELL NO RESERVE!

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17

ments are coming in to our o ce for many of these organizations, but check at the venue you like to see what their scheduling is. Englewood Arts Presents opened with a string quartet recently and will continue with Saturday mid-day events in the very pleasant Hampden Hall. Senior tickets cost $25.

e schedule at University of Denver’s Newman Center, 2344 East Ili Ave., is varied and draws from across the world. Samara Joy, winner of the 2023 Grammy for Best Vocal Jazz Album and Best New Artist — and on a track to join Sarah, Ella and Billie as a jazz singing sensation — appears at Newman on Oct. 15. Also listed at Newman soon: Compagnie Herve Koubi with “What the Day Owes to the Night” on Jan. 23. is French-Algerian choreographer will include Su imagery, featuring 14 male dancers from the Mediterranean, who were called “jaw-dropping” by the Washington Post. Following on Feb. 3 will be American jazz pianist Emmet Cohen Trio, creator of the Master’s Legacy Series and the livestreamed “Live From Emmet’s Place.” Acrobu os: Air Play brings comedy and sculptural images on Feb. 18, followed by jazz with the Joshua Redman Quartet on March 1.

Okareka: Mana Wahine, scheduled for March 10, is said to be one of the leading contemporary Maori (Indigenous) dance companies in New Zealand. April 12 brings Urban Bush Women, members of the African Diaspora, who will perform classic and new works “that illustrate overlooked perspectives that

ENROLL IN THE COLLEGE APPLICATION ESSAY WORKSHOP!

INVENTORY INCLUDES: motor graders, tractors, dump trucks, digger derrick truck, wheel loaders, backhoes, SUVs, ambulances, skid steer, pumper fire truck, pickup trucks, conveyor and more. All items are sold “AS IS.” 10% buyers premium applies. 866.608.9283

It’s never too early to start thinking about the college application process. Help the students in your life stand out by enrolling in the College Applications Essay Workshop, taught by Jessica Moore, Stanford BA ‘12 and Wharton MBA ‘22. During this hourlong, interactive, virtual workshop, we’ll discuss a seven-step process that will help you approach application essays with confidence.

Find workshop dates, pricing, and sign-up information at mooreadvantagecomms.com/college-essay-workshop

DK8764 ‘94 CAT 426B backhoe

‘12 CAT 120M2 motor grader DN8692 ‘20 John Deere 6105E MFWD tractor

The Englewood Arts Presents program hosts its events in Hampden Hall on the second floor of the Englewood Civic Center, 1000 Englewood Parkway.

PHOTO FROM CITY OF ENGLEWOOD WEBSITE

Denver and south metro area are rich in events, amenities

SEE ARTS, P21

ARTS

FROM PAGE 20

contribute to our national conversation around equity and justice.”

On another track, Denver’s Museum of Contemporary Art, 1485 Delgany St., Denver, has a new exhibit called “Cowboy,” which we hope to visit in the next few weeks. It will be exhibited through Feb. 18, 2024. e MCA will host a gala

called “Luminosity” on Oct. 19, which should be a classy event to raise money for this really handsome new museum.

My grandson and I heard architect Sir David Adjay talk about his plans for this building as it came together after he was selected in a competition to design it. He has since done some important work in Great Britain ... We enjoy having that special connection to a handsome contemporary public building.

SPONSOR OF WOMEN’S HEALTH & WELLNESS EVENT 10.13.23

Mental Health identified as top priority for Douglas County residents

Find resources near you thanks to area partners

When is a bad day more than just a bad day? When are a friend’s tears a sign of something deeper than an average disappointment? What does it look like to be mentally healthy?

Douglas County is routinely named one of the healthiest counties in the nation – and our residents know that mental health is a part of our overall health. In the 2023 Community Survey, Douglas County residents indicated “better mental health programs that are easier to access” is a top priority.

Their priorities reflect local data, which is used by both the Douglas County Mental Health Initiative and Douglas County Health Department to meet residents’ needs.

The percentage of adults (18 years or older) in Douglas County who reported that their mental health was not good for 14 or more days during the past 20 days increased faster compared to Colorado as a whole from 6.3% of adults in 2013 to 9% in 2020. In 2019, mental health related issues were the leading cause of hospitalization in the County, according to Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s Vital Statistics.

In 2021, the first step to Douglas County’s own health department was a Community Health Assessment. Performed by an outside research firm, the report stated, “Overall, Douglas County is healthier than the state. However, after looking at 154 measures, the Douglas County Health Department found that there are health and safety concerns the County should pay attention to across three priority areas: injury prevention, disease

management and prevention, and behavioral/mental health.”

As awareness of the importance of mental health has grown, Douglas County has been weaving together a safety net – a partnership of mental health/substance use disorder providers that serve both youth and adults, first responders, communitybased and human services, the Douglas County School District, and nonprofits to ensure resources are available when a resident is ready to ask for help.

About a decade ago, Douglas County formed the Douglas County Mental Health Initiative to collaboratively address unmet mental health needs. Today, that initiative is more than 50 members strong and includes several programs to help people with mental and behavioral (substance use disorder) healthcare needs.

The County’s nine Community Response Teams pair a law enforcement officer with a mental health professional to help adults and youth experiencing a mental health crisis avoid the emergency room or jail and, instead, find the

support they need to heal. Each team has a dedicated resource specialist to help individuals and families navigate services following a crisis.

The Care Compact is an intensive case management program helping adults with complex mental health conditions, substance use disorder, intellectual and developmental disability/delay and basic needs navigate benefits and overcome barriers to care.

The Dyad pairs a case manager and peer recovery coach to help high-risk and high-need individuals served by the Community Response Teams and Care Compact find care and avoid treatment gaps.

When the County received American Rescue Plan Act funding in 2021, additional investments were made. Of Douglas County’s $68.2 million in ARPA funding, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners allocated $9.5 million to mental health programs like the Care Compact, Community Response Teams, suicide prevention, a walk-in crisis and stabilization unit, veterans’

mental health and the new 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

The County has also created strategic plans – including the 2019 Blue Print for a Community Based Mental Health System and the 2022 Suicide Prevention Road Map – so that the community’s priorities are addressed with thought leadership and data.

If you are in need, there is a resource:

988: Dial 988 for 24/7, free and confidential support for mental health, substance use or an emotional crisis.

Colorado Crisis Services: Call 1.844.493.TALK(8255) or text TALK to 38255. This agency has trained counselors who are available 24/7/365 to work with persons in crisis and the people supporting them.

Visit the Douglas County Mental Health Initiatives’ resources page, where you will find a list and contact information for dozens of mental health resources in and around Douglas County. Visit douglas.co.us and search “mental health resources”.

Submitted by the Douglas County Health Department and the Douglas County Mental Health Initiative.

(science, technology, engineering, math) to agriculture, healthy living and civic engagement. Extensive studies through Tufts University have shown that 4-H members are four times more likely to give back to their communities, two times more likely to make healthier choices for themselves and their families and two times more likely to participate in extracurricular STEM activities.

e Elbert County 4-H Extension O ce is the best point of contact for speci c programs available in the area. National 4-H Week runs Oct. 1-7 and is a great opportunity to learn about the program. e Extension O ce website, elbert.extension.colostate.edu, o ers information about 4-H and other programs provided through the Extension

O ce.

A Family 4-H Guidebook can be downloaded from the site and supplies an overview of the registration process as well as a thorough list of available projects. e registration window for the upcoming 4-H season begins Oct. 16 and runs through Dec. 31. To register for 4-H here in Elbert County, new members will need to call the Extension O ce at 303-621-3162. ere is an annual enrollment fee of $30, though additional fees may be required depending on the projects chosen.

Elbert County 4-H participants with final projects.

PHOTO BY COURTNEY FAY

Solution

TRIVIA

1. TELEVISION: How many noble houses are mentioned in “Game of rones”?

2. MOVIES: What is the name of the high school in the musical lm “Grease”?

3. GEOGRAPHY: Which southeast Asian country’s monetary unit is the ringgit?

4. MUSIC: e song “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’” is from which musical?

5. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the rst president to be impeached?

6. ANATOMY: What is considered the “master gland” of the human body?

7. PHYSICS: What does a newton measure?

8. HISTORY: Which founding father wanted the turkey to be the national symbol of America rather than the eagle?

9. SCIENCE: What is studied in mycology?

10. U.S. STATES: What is Alaska’s state animal?

Answers

1. Nine.

2. Rydell High School.

3. Malaysia.

4. “Oklahoma!”

5. Andrew Johnson, 1868.

6. Pituitary gland.

7. Force.

8. Benjamin Franklin.

9. Fungi.

10. e moose.

(c) 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

Help Wanted

Principal Solution Engineer

CommonSpirit Health in Englewood, CO

seeks Principal Solution Engineer to coordinate the implementation and technical integration of software solutions. Requires BS in Computer Science or related, 5 yrs exp software development in health care setting. Position is fully remote and employee may live anywhere in the US. Apply to Alisa.Cochrane@ commmonspirit.org.

Sr. Business Analyst

CSG Systems Inc. d/b/a

CSG has an opening for Sr. Business Analyst in Englewood, CO to research, design, and develop computer and network software. Position can be fully remote and reports to company office in Englewood, CO. Requires a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Management Information Systems, or related. Requires experience (three years with Master’s degree or five years of progressive post bachelor’s with Bachelor’s degree). $152,069 - $162,069 per year including standard company benefits.To apply, send resume to USIRecruitment@ csgi.com. Must reference job 21890.18.3.

Compensation: 25.00

Employment type: part-time

Perfect candidate would have at least two years experience working with full cycle accounting, like working in an office and NOT REMOTELY, be independent and detail oriented. We are a mid sized public accounting firm made up of part time employees that have flexible hours and work an average of 20 hours a week.

Tax Preparer

Compensation based on experience.

Employment type: part-time

Experienced tax preparer needed part time year round; for the fun never stops when it comes to tax prep! Please

MARKETPLACE

Merchandise

Antiques & Collectibles

Old Crows Antiques featuring The Root Beer Bar

An Antique destination in Littleton Colorado

Join us on Memory Lane. Something for everyone.

Visit us for store info

Instagram: @oldcrowsantiques

www.facebook.com/ oldcrowsantiques www.oldcrows antiques.com

303-973-8648

10081 W. Bowles Ave. Littleton, CO 80127

Arts & Crafts

Family in Christ Church

15th Annual

70+ Vendors & FREE Raffle!

Friday, October 20th, 10am-4pm &

Saturday, October 21st, 9am-3pm 11355 N. Sheridan Blvd., Westminster

Admission: FREE

Suggested donation: Non-perishable food items for local food pantries.

Arts & Crafts

Furniture

Dinette Set 42” round table with oak grain top. Dark green base. 2 –12” leaves extends to 66”. 6 chairs. Good condition. Made by Kincade Furniture. $200. Call 720-982-4691

Douglas County Fairgrounds

November 18th & 19th

ARE

Advertising wrks

Place your ad here. 303-566-4100

Firewood

Health & Beauty

DENTAL INSURANCEPhysicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit! 1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/58 #6258.

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928

Hablamos Espanol

Medical

Oxygen therapy users! Caire AirSep Newlife Intensity10 home concentrator, used only7 mos. Accommodates prescription from 2LPM to 10LPM max. New $1495, for sale $1000. Call 720 366 5059.

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-9299587

Miscellaneous

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/ mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/ Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936

Leading smart home provider Vivint Smart Home has an offer just for you. Call 833-427-0530 to get a professionally installed home security system with $0 activation.

Inflation is at 40 year highs Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call National Debt Relief to find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! Free quote: 1-877-592-3616

Diagnosed with lung cancer & 65+?

You may qualify for a substantial cash award. No obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help! Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707

BATH & SHOWER

UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725

Colorado Statewide Network

To place a 25-wordCOSCAN Network adin 91 Colorado newspapers for only $300, contact your local newspaper or email Colorado Press Association Network at rtoledo@colopress.net

Miscellaneous

Scrap Metal, Batteries, Appliances, Wiring, Scrap Plumbing/Heating, Cars/ Parts, Clean out Garages/Yards, Rake, Yard work done w/chainsaw, Certified Auto Mechanical / Body Work & paint available

Also can do inside or outside cleaning 303-647-2475 / 720-323-2173

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today.

20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Pets Dogs

Doodle Puppies

Golden Doodles and Bernedoodles

Home-Raised Heath Tested and Guaranteed Standard and Mini Size available

Schedule a visit today! (970)215-6860 www.puppylovedoodles.com

Classifieds

Continues

Pet Services

PET BLESSING

Small animal pet blessing, demonstrations and animal communication October 7th, 1-4 PM. At Tallman Meadows Pavilion in Parker. Sponsored by CSL Parker. Bring your small animals and pictures of large animals for blessing. Animal communication: 10 minute sessions available for $20. Questions email eichsnewlife@netscape.net

Wanted

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Dan’s Painting

VFM Painting Inc.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088

Legals

Public Trustees

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

Recording Date of DOT: 3/5/2007

Reception No. of DOT: 2007018693

DOT Recorded in Douglas County.

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 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

Legals City and County

Public Notice

Request: Legacy Academy

On Tuesday, October 10, 2023, Legacy Academy will hold a public meeting at 6:30PM. The meeting will be held in the cafeteria of Legacy Academy located at 1975 Legacy Circle, Elizabeth, 80107.

The purpose of this meeting is to give the school and surrounding community the opportunity to become acquainted with the proposed USDA financing to include renovation of the existing facility and expansion that would include additional elementary classrooms, a proposed preschool and auxiliary gymnasium. Legacy Academy is applying for project financing through the USDA

Rural Development Community Facilities program. Attendees will be able to ask questions and comment about the project, general financing and any other general inquiry.

For more information or directions to the meeting, please contact Jen Zander at 303-646-2636.

Legal Notice No. 25049

First Publication: October 5, 2023

Last Publication: October 5, 2023

Publisher: Elbert County News

Bids and Settlements

Public Notification Legacy Academy RFQ-P CMGC services

On behalf of Legacy Academy, Elizatbeth, CO, requests for qualifications and proposals for CMGC services on the Legacy Academy school expansion, will be received by Agora West Real Estate Group via electronic mail;

*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

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:

Elbert Legals

jeff@agorawest.com. Submissions will be accepted until 4:00 pm on October 31st , 2023. Receipt of emailed Submissions by the deadline is priority. Submissions will be reviewed and the successful firms for the shortlist will be notified within (2) business days following the submission.

RFQ-P information, requirements, and associated documents may be obtained by emailing Jeff Reed, with Agora West; Jeff@agorawest. com starting Thursday, October 5th, 2023 and ending Thursday, October 12, 2023.

All respondents must submit evidence of experience, insurance, bonding, and licensing to construct this type of work. Performance and payment bonds will be required.

Any questions should be directed to Jeff Reed at (970) 556-0406.

Legal Notice No. 25050

First Publication: October 5, 2023

Last Publication: October 12, 2023

Publisher: Elbert County News

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.

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

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://

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

Teresita De jesus Rivera

Personal Representative 41941 County Road 162

AgateColorado80101

Legal Notice No. 25046

First Publication: September 28, 2023

Last Publication: October 12, 2023

Publisher: Elbert County News

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

Misc. Private Legals

Public Notice

DISTRICT COURT, DOUGLAS COUNTY, STATE OF COLORADO CONSOLIDATED NOTICE OF PUBLICATION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT IN THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS FILED IN THIS COURT UNDER THE “UNIFORM DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE” AND “UNIFORM CHILD CUSTODY JURISDICTION” ACTS, due diligence has been used to obtain personal service within the State of Colorado and further efforts would be to no avail: therefore, publication has been ordered:

NUMBER: 2023DR030535

NAME: Omar Steven Pineda Hernandez v Zaira Alejandra Soto Ramirez TYPE OF ACTION: Custody

A copy of the Petition and Summons may be obtained from the Clerk of the above Court during regular business hours (7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and that failure to respond to this service by publication within thirty-five (35) days of the publication date may result in a default judgment against the non-appearing party.

Andrea K. Truett CLERK OF THE COURT 4000 JUSTICE WAY CASTLE ROCK, CO 80109 by Margaret Corbetta, Deputy Clerk

Legal Notice No. 946064

First Publication: October 5, 2023

Last Publication: October 5, 2023

Publisher: Douglas County News-Press ###

Name Changes

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

XXX

COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA'S

NOVEMBER 18TH & 19TH DOUGLAS COUNTY

FAIR GROUNDS

ARE YOU AN ARTIST OR CRAFTER?

WE ARE LOOKING FOR LOCAL VENDORS SCAN QR CODE FOR VENDOR APPLICATION OR PLEASE EMAIL EVENTS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM