Elbert County News 0204

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February 4, 2021

ELBERT COUNTY, COLORADO

A publication of

ElbertCountyNews.net

VOLUME 126 | ISSUE 1

County to distribute grants to businesses This Franktown home was certified by Wellness Within Your Walls, which is intended to guide consumers and builders to healthPHOTO BY JOSH DROVDAL/REVL MEDIA ier measures for home design and construction.

Custom home puts focus on health YouTube, Amazon Prime miniseries included house in Franktown

BY ELLIOTT WENZLER EWENZLER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A custom home built in unincorporated Douglas County was

featured in an interior design trade magazine and received a certification from an organization focused on healthy living spaces.

The ranch-style home, located in the Fox Hill community in Franktown, was also featured in a miniseries on Youtube and Amazon Prime created by House Beautiful, the interior design magazine. Eleven designers from across the country collaborated on

INSIDE: VOICES: PAGE 8 | LIFE: PAGE 6 | CALENDAR: PAGE 10

State funds totaling $509,000 will help operations hurt by COVID-19 restrictions

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

the concept.

The home includes four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, three laundry rooms, five fireplaces and a full “boomer suite” for aging parents, said Nick Nettleton, custom builder for the home and owner of Nicholas Custom Homes.

“It was very rewarding to see it all come together,” he said.

Select businesses in Elbert County could qualify for grants to help offset the hardship of COVID-19 restrictions that forced them to either close their doors or greatly reduce the number of customers they could serve.

Colorado Senate Bill 20b-001, the COVID-19 Relief Small and Minority Businesses Arts Organizations, allotted $37 million to help restaurants, bars, movie theaters, caterers, and fitness and recreation sports centers.

SEE HOME, P4

SEE GRANTS, P4

SOUNDS OF THE STREETS Outdoor performers offer an eclectic array of entertainment

P6

2 Elbert County News

February 4, 2021F

Census delays could collide with redistricting March 31 was original deadline for data, but that is likely out the window

BY JESSE PAUL THE COLORADO SUN

Delays by the U.S. Census Bureau in sharing detailed population data are threatening to upend Colorado’s new redistricting process ahead of the 2022 election, injecting uncertainty into a politically fraught undertaking that will affect the state’s political landscape for the next decade.

Because of slowdowns related to COVID-19, the Trump administration’s failed efforts to add a citizenship question to the 2020 Census, and data anomalies, the Census Bureau isn’t expected to provide the population information to Colorado until sometime this summer. The data was supposed to be in by March 31 — at the latest.

The delay means it’s unlikely that two new, independent commissions will have enough time to redraw Colorado’s legislative and congressional maps in time to meet September deadlines set in the state constitution when voters passed Amendments Y and Z in 2018. The amendments were sent to voters by the Legislature and completely overhauled the way districts are drawn in Colorado.

If the deadlines aren’t met, nonpartisan legislative staff will draw the new maps instead, putting a big damper on the intent of Amendments Y and Z and the bipartisan, much-heralded agreement that led to their passage. The amendments are aimed at removing political maneuvering around the once-in-adecade redistricting and giving the public more say in the task.

“There was not just bipartisan support, but unanimous support among the 100 legislators (for the new process). And both Y and Z passed by wide margins,” said Senate Minority Leader Chris Holbert, a Parker Republican. “It’s a shame that we are in this situation.”

Much is at stake

Top lawmakers in the Colorado General Assembly are now scrambling to respond and salvage the new redistricting process. The stakes are high, with Colorado expected to add an eighth congressional seat in 2022 due to population growth and partisan power at the statehouse potentially hanging in the balance.

The new problems with the redistricting process come after state officials initially struggled to get enough applicants to be on the legislative and congressional map-drawing committees. There were also concerns that not enough applicants from underrepresented groups sought to serve on the panels, whose members are being selected by

judges in the coming weeks.

Colorado isn’t the only state where redistricting plans are in trouble because of Census Bureau delays.

The National Conference of State Legislatures reports that New Jersey and Virginia were planning to redraw their legislative districts ahead of elections this year. Meanwhile, California, Missouri, Maine, Ohio, South Dakota and Washington all have constitutional redistricting deadlines in the coming months ahead of the 2022 election, similar to Colorado’s.

Texas’ Legislature may have to be called into a special session because of the Census Bureau’s slowdown.

Colorado’s nonpartisan redistricting commission staff informed top legislative leaders Jan. 25 about why the delays are so problematic.

“We knew for a little while now that the timeline was going to be called into question because of the census,” said Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, a Boulder Democrat. “It’s become much more clear now, the impact.”

The detailed population numbers were expected to arrive by March 31, officials said, but the data now may not arrive until July 31 — if not later.

“The Census Bureau has more or less acknowledged that they won’t be able to meet that deadline,” Jerry Barry, a nonpartisan staffer with the Office of Legislative Legal Services, told top lawmakers on Jan. 25. “We have heard that it will be sometime

this fall.”

Court may be called in

Barry recommended that leading Democrats and Republicans quickly draft a bill to push back the map-drawing deadlines — now set at Sept. 1 for congressional districts and Sept. 15 for legislative ones — and then ask the Colorado Supreme Court to weigh in about whether state lawmakers can legally pass a measure altering the constitutional deadlines.

The Legislature does not inherently have the power to alter the state constitution by passing a bill. That’s why lawmakers will have to ask the state high court if, given the extenuating circumstances, the alterations are OK. “The only avenue the Legislature has, because we don’t have the authority to amend the constitution and there isn’t time to refer a question to the voters, (is to seek) an opinion,” Holbert said.

Because of the pandemic, Colorado Supreme Court allowed the Legislature last year to sidestep its constitutional requirement to meet for 120 consecutive days. The Legislature’s lawyers see the request to alter the redistricting deadlines as being similar.

(The Colorado Supreme Court is required to review the final maps and approve or reject them by the end of 2021 and pass them along to SEE CENSUS, P5

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Elbert County News 3

1February 4, 2021

Elizabeth town administrator resigns BJ Potts steps down during six-month trial period

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

BJ Potts, town administrator for Elizabeth, tendered his resignation to the board of trustees Jan. 15. Potts took the position Oct. 26, with a six-month trial period for both him and the board.

Potts relocated from Potts Texas to accept the position, and according to Elizabeth Mayor Megan

Vasquez, Potts decided the position was not right for him.

“He just decided the position probably wasn’t the right position for him,” said Vasquez. “We are very grateful for the time he served here, he was such an asset to the town. We are sorry to see him go, and we wish him the best in the future.”

An attempt to reach Potts for comment was not successful as of press time.

Potts, who purchased a home in Elizabeth, plans to continue to reside in the county, said Vasquez, who added that trustees have extended an offer to an interim town administrator, and if accepted will being serving in that capacity in February.

Draft Plan public comment opportunity Join us on Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 5:30 p.m. for the presentation of the Draft 2021 Douglas County Local Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. We will review the Draft Plan and look forward to receiving your public comments. For more information visit douglas.co.us and search for Local Natural Hazard Mitigation.

Business Personal Property Tax Declarations due by April 15 2021 Business Personal Property Tax Declarations may be filed online at DouglasFilesOnline.org. Business owners who own or lease business personal property with a total market value greater than $7,900 must report the property to the County Assessor. For more information visit douglas.co.us/assessor

Reminder first half property tax payments due First half payment is due by the last day of February, second half payment due by June 15 or full payment due

by April 30. For more information visit douglas.co.us/ treasurer or douglascotax.com

Where can individuals 70 and older get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Tom Neubert, 56, was riding his motorcycle to work when he was killed in a collision COURTESY OF DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE/18TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT with Manuel Enrique Frias’ car.

Motorist gets eight years in prison for fatal crash Tom Neubert was riding his motorcycle to work when he was killed

BY ELLIOTT WENZLER EWENZLER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A Commerce City man convicted of killing a motorcyclist while driving high in unincorporated Douglas County in 2019 was sentenced to eight years in prison Jan. 22.

Manuel Enrique Frias, 30, pleaded guilty Nov. 2 to vehicular homicide while Frias driving under the influence and leaving the scene of an accident involving death, according to a news release

from the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

Tom Neubert, 56, was riding his motorcycle from his Parker home to his job in Aurora at 6:20 a.m. Aug. 19, 2019 when he was hit by Frias’ car at the intersection of North Piney Lake Road and East County Line Road, according to the news release. Several passersby attempted to render aid and administer CPR to Neubert, but he died at the scene. At the same time that people were stopping to help Neubert, Frias fled.

Shortly after the crash, a resident in the Blackstone neighborhood saw Frias running through his backyard, according to an arrest report for Frias. The resident was later driving when Frias waved him down and asked for a ride to a gas station, stating that his car had run out of gas.

SEE CRASH, P9

Those 70+ who have not been contacted by an affiliated health care system should contact a vaccine provider listed on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s website. Visit covid19.colorado.gov/ vaccine, call CO HELP at 303-389-1687 or call 2-1-1.

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.

Are you ready if disaster hits?

It takes a matter of seconds for disaster to strike and change your life forever. Thankfully, it also takes only seconds to sign up for free emergency notifications at DouglasCountyCodeRED.com ensuring that you will be in the know if dangerous circumstances are foreseen or happening near you.

What’s happening with your County government?

Our commitment to open and transparent government includes online posting of information about public meetings at which the business of government is conducted.

To view public meeting agendas, participate in-person or remotely, or watch select meeting livestreams visit douglas.co.us and search for Meetings and Agendas.

Visit douglas.co.us

4 Elbert County News

February 4, 2021F

HOME FROM PAGE 1

The house is now up for sale and listed at nearly $3 million, according to the Fox Hill website.

The 5,400-square-foot home is located on a 1.8-acre lot in Fox Hill, a community that provides residents access to a fully operational farm with apple and pear orchards, a berry patch, eggs and honey.

Wellness Within Your Walls, a certification that guides consumers and professionals on healthier measures for home design and construction, gave the Fox Hill house its first ever full accreditation, according to a news release on the project.

In order to acquire this accolade, the builders met requirements of a 10-step approach to ensure health and wellness in the home. The 10 steps focus on providing clean air and water, enhanced exposure to natural light, the removal of unnecessary chemicals and toxins in the home, physical wellness attributes, conscious consumption, mental wellness, spiritual wellness, food science, behavioral strategies and positive lifestyle habits, according to the news release.

“It starts from the ground up,” Nettleton said. “We’re trying to make the house as healthy to live in as living in the wilderness. We didn’t want the house to cause any negative health effects.”

Nettleton’s team accomplished this by implementing several techniques like using all sealed-combustion appliances, which improves

A wet bar in the Douglas County home.

efficiency and safety of those items.

They also only used building materials that don’t have harmful volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, which can have adverse health impacts.

They built the house with a full water filtration system — complete with a water softener and a UV light — to remove everything from the drinking water including any bacteria or chlorine. The furnaces were also made to ensure the air is as clean as possible.

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PHOTOS BY JOSH DROVDAL/REVL MEDIA

“It makes sure that the air you’re breathing is very healthy and allergen and bacteria free,” he said.

Nettleton said not many homes have these features yet.

“I do think it’s getting more popular, especially with COVID-19,” he said. “I think a lot of people have realized they spend a lot of time at their home and being made aware of healthier living in general.”

The company broke ground on the project at the end of March 2020 and it was completed in August of that year.

“It was a struggle to build an almost 6,000-square-foot house with (11) designers in four and a half months,” Nettleton said. “With the COVID-19 situation, that made it much more challenging.”

Nettleton said his company plans to only build homes that meet the Wellness Within Your Walls certification going forward.

“It was an exciting process for us,” he said. “We’ve never done something like this before.”

GRANTS FROM PAGE 1

Elbert County has received $509,000 of those state funds, and will be distributing grants to local businesses that qualify within the next 30 days.

“We’ll be contacting the businesses that qualify in the county this week,” County Manager Sam Albrecht said the week of Jan. 25.

“We’ll send emails, post on social media and deliver information in person.”

Qualifying businesses must be within the categories stated, and have earnings less than $2.5 million. Depending on the size of the business, grants will be awarded on three levels, with money being dispersed in grants of either $7,000, $5,000 or $3,500. Grants will also be available for businesses that were started between Jan. 1 and March.

New businesses were not eligible for Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act)

A bedroom with two beds and scenic wallpaper inside the Franktown home.

One of the bedrooms in the Douglas County home. Eleven designers from across the country came together to collaborate on the project.

funds because they were required to show receipts for 2019.

Albrecht said the state also approved an extension for the original CARES Act funds, which were originally mandated to be used by the end of 2020, or remitted back to the state. The county now has until the end of 2021 to distribute those funds.

“We still have some money to distribute under the CARES Act, and we’ll be reaching out to businesses to let them know when we’ll start another round of grants for that,” said Albrecht.

Under the CARES Act, Elbert County received $2,294,004, with $103,085 being distributed proportionately to the towns of Elizabeth, Kiowa and Simla. Elbert County gave out $266,000 of their portion to small businesses and nonprofit organizations within the county.

“We really want to help as many businesses in the county under these new guidelines,” said Albrecht. “Any funds we don’t distribute go back to the state, so we’d rather help those in our county.”

Elbert County News 5

1February 4, 2021

County manager wins Rising Star Award Albrecht honored by Association of Colorado County Administrators

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Sam Albrecht signed on as the top administrator for Elbert County in September 2017. His efforts in various areas of managing the county have earned him the Rising Star Award from the Association of Colorado County Administrators.

Albrecht was recognized by the county commissioners for his accomplishment at their Jan. 27 meeting.

“I am proud to present the Rising Star Award to Sam Albrecht, Elbert Albrecht County manager,” said Commissioner Chris Richardson. “Sam is well deserving of the award and all of the recognition that comes with it. Congratulations Sam!” Albrecht began his service with Elbert County with a limited amount of finance staff, but was able to prepare an annual budget and implement a five-year financial plan while build-

ing fund balances to provide four months of operating expenses. He prepared the county’s first strategic plan and revised the county’s comprehensive plan. He has also focused on improving communication with citizens.

“Upon being named as the county manager he jumped in with both feet his first year,” said Sunny Bryant, president of the ACCA. “He has increased communication with citizens, which has positively impacted the citizens during COVID-19. One of his favorite saying is `culture eats strategy for breakfast.’”

Albrecht, a former officer in the Air Force, has been active with the Colorado Veterans Leading Local Government Committee, a group that advocates for and provides professional development to veterans seeking leadership roles in local government.

“Elbert County is the beneficiary of smart, talented staff, of which Sam, who is a hard worker, is the leader,” said Commissioner Grant Thayer.

The ACCA is a nonprofit organization that support county administrators through information, resources and ideas that create more effective county management, and encourages the continued development of higher ethical and professional standards in the administration of county government.

CENSUS FROM PAGE 2

the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office.)

Holbert said lawmakers might have anticipated delays in census data being reported when drafting Amendments Y and Z and provided some flexibility around the deadlines. But at this point the only thing to do is find a way to respond. And his Democratic colleagues agree.

“We are just where we are,” said House Speaker Alec Garnett, a Denver Democrat. “So, let’s figure out a way to move forward.”

It’s unclear how long the Legislature would seek to push back the map-drawing deadlines. Fenberg said if it’s a month or two, there really wouldn’t be that much of a difference.

Such an extension, however, would give candidates less time to decide which races to run in and likely create an even more frantic election cycle. A number of top politicians are watching closely to see where Colorado’s eighth congressional district is drawn. The new map is likely to have major ripple effects across the political landscape.

Fenberg is trying to find the silver lining. “I don’t think it’s the end of the world,” he said of a possible delay. “It might be, frankly, a positive thing.”

Fenberg points out that the pandemic will make it difficult for the independent redistricting commissions to meet and get statewide input since in-person gatherings are still frowned upon.

“There’s all kinds of reasons why right now is not a great period to be kicking off the redistricting process,” Fenberg said.

The upshot for proponents of the redistricting changes are that even with the delays, the process will not be in the hands of the Legislature as was the case before Amendments Y and Z. Even if the independent panels can’t draw the maps, nonpartisan legislative staff will take the reins, meaning the influence of party politics will still be minimized.

The downside is it will be difficult to solicit and consider public input in the way Amendments Y and Z envisioned.

“It might not look exactly like the way we planned it when we wrote Y and Z,” Fenberg said, “but there’s still going to be some big changes.”

This story is from The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. Used by permission.

For more, and to support The Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun. com.

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6 Elbert County News

February 4, 2021F

LOCAL

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Traveling poet, buskers share words of love and music in the age of COVID

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A

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With a few taps on the Remington mobile’s keys, he creates unique poetry on demand for strangers passing by.

“I love doing this. I have an English degree, so I’m probably going to end

Ivory Sykes, aka Vio the Violinist, of Aurora performs near Welton Street on the 16th Street Mall in Denver on Jan. 16.

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up teaching at some point,” said Kingsford. “But for now, I’m fine just writing poetry for strangers.”

Up the street, Peter Olschner and Kyle Lang are two young street musicians performing soulful jazz tunes and trying to preserve downtown Denver’s rich history of street music.

“We don’t have a band name because we just started jamming together,” said Olschner. “We both love playing music with other people.”

It was a cold January day on the mall and it was bare with masked people enjoying entertainment, restaurants and shopping to escape COVID quarantines. COVID-19 has presented some challenges, especially for performers and musicians. The pandemic took away Lang’s job, sending him to the streets to play.

“I used to teach percussion in public schools around Colorado and after the pandemic shut down extracurricular activities, I was kinda lost for a bit,” he said. “It’s been great getting back into it, though.”

Olschner said the pandemic had a positive impact on playing his music because he was able to still earn an income.

“I would not have discovered my love for busking if I had a traditional gig opportunity. I’ve been able to continue to be a performer despite the situation surrounding the pandemic,” he said.

As for Kingsford, the typewriter

Devan Kingsford creating a poems for strangers on the mall.

poet, the pandemic moved him away from his favorite spot in Larimer Square, but it has not slowed him down. He is still able to find locations to set up his typewriter.

“There was more walking space and, luckily, we have the 16th Street Mall, which is a pedestrian mall which gives you a lot more space.

Without that extra space, I probably would not have been able to work. Also, it would not be at a safe distance,” said Kingsford.

Shouting on the street corners

Kingsford is a native of Colorado and received an English degree from Metropolitan State Univer-

PHOTO BY BELEN WARD

sity of Denver. He has been creating poetry for strangers for more than seven years on the streets of Denver and at special events. He does not charge for his poetry but accepts donations.

Kingsford started working as a poet at the Art Walk on Santa Fe Drive in Denver, standing on the street corner with a book of his own poems in his hand, shouting his creations to strangers.

He did that until a woman warned him that he should stop.

“You are gonna get yourself killed — there’s one thing people SEE PERFORMERS, P15

Elbert County News 7

1February 4, 2021

Cemetery a historic landmark in shopping center Melvin-Lewis Cemetery a part of bygone community near Cherry Creek

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM At the Pioneer Hills shopping center just off Parker Road, visitors can find the typical features of a suburban retail destination: a Bed Bath & Beyond, a PetSmart, a handful of chain restaurants.

But right between the Chick-fil-A and another retail building — near the middle of the parking lot — there’s a cemetery.

It’s called the Melvin-Lewis Cemetery, a former part of a small community called Melvin that once sat near the Cherry Creek watercourse.

John and Emma Lewis, who once owned a farm in the area, purchased the land that included the cemetery in 1883, according to the Cherry Creek Valley Historical Society.

“Most residents were forced to move when the Cherry Creek Dam was built,” the society’s website says. “This burial ground fell into disuse and was abandoned.”

Decades later, suburban sprawl crept right up to the cemetery, which ended up preserved as part of the shopping center. It’s not known for sure who was buried there — or even how many people once were, according to the historical society.

The Melvin-Lewis Cemetery, a former part of a small community called Melvin that once sat near the Cherry Creek watercourse, sits in the Pioneer Hills shopping center PHOTO BY ELLIS ARNOLD just off Parker Road in Aurora, near Centennial.

“We have more questions than answers,” said Garry O’Hara, the society’s president.

Although the cemetery, which previously sat amid an open field, was a “prime candidate to be bulldozed over 20 or 30 years ago,” O’Hara said, it now holds a historical landmark designation from the City of Aurora, the city in which the shopping center is located.

Here’s a look at what’s known about the cemetery, which sits just outside of Centennial near Chambers Road.

Historic resting place Arriving in 1859, the Melvin family’s settlement in the area “proved invaluable to fellow westward travelers” and eventually grew into the Melvin community, according to

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historical information from the City of Aurora.

Travelers were buried at the cemetery, likely beginning with the Melvins’ arrival, according to the city. The Lewis family purchased the cemetery from the Melvin family.

John and Jane Melvin had built a ranch in the area in the 1860s, according to the historical society. The Melvin place soon became known as 12 Mile House, a station along Cherry Creek.

The “mile houses” sat every two to three miles along the Cherokee/ Smoky Hill wagon trails from Kansas, named based on their distance to the intersection of Colfax Avenue and North Broadway in Denver, according to Arapahoe County’s website. Out of the original six mile houses, only 17 Mile House and Four

Mile House exist in their entirety today, the website says. The buildings also included Seven Mile House, Nine Mile House and 20 Mile House, according to the National Register of Historic Places.

At mile houses, travelers could get a meal, spend the night, rest their animals and have minor repairs made to coaches or wagons, according to the county’s website.

In addition to travelers, the remains of individuals who donated their bodies to medical research were also buried at the cemetery from 1957 to 1986, according to Aurora’s website.

In 1957, the property that included the cemetery was acquired by the University of Colorado, and it was used for research from that point, O’Hara said.

“Over time, the cemetery became abandoned and vandalized,” O’Hara said. Among the only remains left are cremated remains of around 1,600 people who donated their bodies to science after death, now interred in a chain-link fence enclosure in the middle of the cemetery, O’Hara said.

‘Valiant’ fight Before the shopping center arrived, “nothing at all” sat near the cemetery, O’Hara said.

“The only thing that was there is the caretaker’s house for the University of Colorado and a few sticks SEE CEMETERY, P11

8 Elbert County News

W

LOCAL

February 4, 2021F

VOICES

Irrelevance of watches was just a matter of time

atch out.

Believe it or not, years and years ago wristwatches were intended solely to tell someone what time it was.

QUIET Not anymore.

DESPERATION Maybe you saw this? The president wore a $7,000 “statement watch” — a Rolex Datejust — to the inauguration.

It’s doubtful he needed the watch to tell him what time it was. His day was Craig Marshall pretty well orchesSmith trated.

Perhaps he wore the watch to tell those Russians something about him.

I always think that actions speak louder than watches, but what do I know? I haven’t worn a watch — not even a cheap-o — in 40 years.

Back when I was wearing a watch, I needed one to know what time it was; nothing more.

Then, all of a sudden, there were

time pieces everywhere. Every appliance comes with a digital clock. Digital clocks come with digital clocks.

Stoves, coffee makers, microwave ovens. Your television tells you what time it is too.

Mobile phones know what time it is. That means you can confirm what your watch is telling you once you leave the house.

Your car has a clock. Office buildings have digital clocks outside and analog clocks inside.

Every stadium, gymnasium, auditorium has multiple clocks (yet coaches wear watches).

Every classroom has a clock.

Yet hundreds — thousands — of dollars are spent on wristwatches.

Why? Because expensive wristwatches let people know you have (choose one): high standards; good taste; a lot of money; a warped sense of priorities.

As you might have guessed, I don’t accessorize. In fact, I am uncomfortable with the word.

No watch, ring, bracelet, necklace, or chain.

Entertainer William Jonathan Drayton Jr. takes the concept of carrying a timepiece with him to the greatest extreme.

Known as “Flavor Flav,” he wears a dinner plate-sized clock on a chain around his neck.

In high school, I was given a Timex with a “Twist-O-Flex” band.

The band always managed to capture wrist hairs and bring tears to my years.

Later I purchased a Swatch for less than $20.

One day at school I looked at it and realized it was nothing more than a bracelet. After all, there were clocks everywhere.

In an article about “statement watches,” Watch Shopping states, “Welcome to the complicated world of Rolex. The iconic brand often sends differing, even conflicting messages.

“While a Rolex exudes a sense of sophistication and success, it also risks looking like overcompensation.”

I don’t want something on my wrist to exude anything.

What does a Rolex Datejust weigh?

The one the president was wearing?

Two pounds at least.

His watch also tells him what day it is. It seems like he would know.

There are watches that do more than tell the time and date.

I always envied Dick Tracy’s watch. He talked into it. Now and then in grade school I talked to my wrist.

(My teacher sent a note to my parents. “Craig talks to his left wrist.”)

In one way or another, we all make statements with what we are wearing or not wearing.

In the winter, I wear a sweater and jeans. In the summer, a shirt and shorts. I think this means one of two things: I undervalue the benefits of making statements with what I am wearing, or I’m too old and distant to care about making statements with what I am wearing.

It’s time to feed the dog.

Craig Marshall Smith is an artist, educator and Highlands Ranch resident. He can be reached at craigmarshallsmith@comcast.net.

The power of accountability

A

ccountability is one of those words that gets a lot of attention; however, it also receives a fair amount of avoidance. I mean it’s great when we can hold others accountable for doing what they say they will WINNING do and then actually getting it done; WORDS but when it’s time for others to hold us accountable, well, let’s just slow down a bit and talk this whole thing over. Accountable?

I don’t need anyone holding me acMichael Norton countable.

It does seem like there is a lot of conversation these days about accountability. We hear things like, “Why isn’t anyone being held accountable for that?”

If we can get ourselves past the macro view of accountability and focus on the micro view, meaning our own personal accountability, we will be able to accomplish more, feel better about what we achieve, and put some of the enjoyment back in our lives. Enjoyment that

A publication of

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may have been lost while we were too busy concentrating on what others are “not” doing.

Over the years I have developed a huge sense of appreciation for accountability. I have also embraced the idea of accountability partners.

I would like to share five of my accountability partners with you.

These are people in my life who have absolutely helped me achieve success in many areas where I am always seeking improvement.

My fitness accountability partner happens to be my wife Kim. She holds me accountable for many other things too. We are accountability partners for each other when it comes to what we eat, how much water we drink, and making sure that we get our workouts in each day. The gains that we have both seen in the past few months have been incredible.

When it comes to faith, my good friend Mark Foley and I have been accountability partners for many years. Every day, without fail, we participate in a Bible study and a devotional. We share our intimate reactions and thoughts. And we typically do this the first thing in the morning. This accountability sets

the tone for the day and grounds us in the truth.

There is another friend whom I have known for 20 years. We speak almost every single night and have done so since the pandemic started.

Our calls include catching up on the events of the day, but we also make sure we talk about specific business activities, behaviors, prospects, and customer interactions. I call John Vanderslice on the odd number days of the month and he calls me on the even days of the month. His knowledge and practicality are so valued, and if I try to avoid the details of my day, he digs in and holds me accountable to talk through it.

Frank Singer is my accountability partner in so many incredible ways, as we have walked the same road in life. Long before the pandemic, we would speak often.

Frank’s presence in my life has always reminded me to hold myself accountable for the blessings and appreciation of true friendship.

Frank and I have spoken almost every single day since the pandemic as well. And whether it’s Frank holding me accountable, or me holding him accountable, to have

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a brief call every day reminds us both of the necessity and value of friendship.

Lastly, I will share with you my accountability partner and my voice of reason and truth. Tom Ziglar has an amazing capacity to understand situations for what they really are. We are partners, we have been co-workers, friends, and we are brothers. When the world looks like a maze that I am trying to navigate and feeling a bit lost, Tom will always hold me accountable bringing me back to reality.

Five accountability partners, one for each: fitness and more, faith, business, friendship, and for keeping things real.

How about you? Is there a chance that you can benefit from a little bit of accountability? I would love to hear your story at mnorton@ tramazing.com, and when we have the right amount of accountability in our lives, it really will be a better than good year.

Michael Norton is the grateful CEO of Tramazing.com, a personal and professional coach, and a consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator to businesses of all sizes.

Columnists & Guest Commentaries Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Elbert County News.

We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Email letters to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com Deadline Wed. for the following week’s paper.

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Elbert County News 9

1February 4, 2021

Season B goes ahead after much consideration Prep athletes in six sports get chance to play amid pandemic rules

BY JIM BENTON JBENTON@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Season B started Jan. 25, but it took work, determination and soulsearching from the Colorado High School Activities Association to usher in the six sports seasons.

Boys and girls basketball, hockey, girls swimming and diving and boys and girls wrestling are the sports in Season B that will have abbreviated seasons, but at least as of press time there will be competition and eventually state champions crowned despite the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

CHSAA has had to make adjustments after seeking variances from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. CHSAA had to direct teams to make altered schedules, modify state tournament brackets and venues, try to find referees and officials from a dwindling list plus listen to complaints and suggestions from administrators, coaches, parents and spectators.

There will be a new look for all six sports as practices and competition must follow local and state COVID-19 guidelines and mandates.

“It’s just been a challenge, but I think the best part of this is, it looks like we are going to get a season in, and number two, we are going to be able to conclude with some state championships,” said assistant CHSAA commissioner Bert Borgmann, who oversees boys and girls basketball.

All boys and girls basketball players must wear masks this season while playing, and CHSAA got a variance from the CDPHE to have 14 instead of 12 games during the regular season. Roster limit has been set at 12 for each team with three coaches and a trainer. That also required a variance.

State basketball tournament fields have been reduced. In Class 5A there will be a 32-team bracket with league champions automatically qualifying. The CHSAA seeding

CRASH FROM PAGE 3

After ultimately admitting to the resident that he had been the driver in the nearby crash, Frias agreed to return to the scene and talk with police, the report said.

Frias told deputies with the Douglas County Sheriff ’s Office that several hours earlier, he had y smoked oxycodone, and he had methamphetamine in his car at the time of the crash, according to the report. In an exam of Frias, deputies observed several indicators that Frias was impaired.

“Mr. Neubert did nothing wrong and was just on the road, driving to work, as so many of us do,” said Deputy District Attorney Zoe

Cherry Creek’s Julian Hammond III (3) wears a mask which is required for all players this season. Cherry Creek defeated Arapahoe, 79-60, in the Centennial League opener played Jan. 27 at ArapaPHOTO BY JIM BENTON hoe.

selection index will determine state tournament at-large teams. Highest seeding teams will be hosts for games on March 9, 11, 13 and 16 until the state championship games at a site still to be determined as of press time.

“There are a lot of little things that go into it,” said Borgmann. “We set out with a couple of goals. One was to have a season where we could get the kids on the floor, which to me is the most important one. Secondarily, we didn’t finish and crown champions last year. I think it is important that we crown a champion.

“The variances we got were so that kids could play games,” Borgmann said. “There is nothing about capacity limits or anything like that. The capacity limits will be set by the local health care agencies. So you are going to go from this district to this district, this league and this league where some leagues are going to allow parents and others are not going to allow anybody. Those were decisions that were made locally for whatever reason.”

CHSAA does not have the authority to interpret or change CDPHE, local health departments or the governor’s executive orders in regard to capacity limitations for sport arenas, gyms, pools, recreational facilities, ice rinks, classrooms, restaurants, theaters and so on.

Boys and girls wrestling regular

Laird, who prosecuted the case, according to the news release. “His family is living with the consequences of the defendant’s actions forever, and it is appropriate that the defendant serve time in prison for the deliberate and deadly decisions he made.”

Neubert was married with two children and three step-children.

He also had six siblings.

“So many friends and family members wanted to offer impact statements on Jan. 22 that the sentencing hearing lasted more than five hours,” the news release states.

Loved ones in the hearing described Neubert’s character and personality, pointing to his strong faith, generous nature and interests in things like cars, motorcycles and other mechanical items, according to the release.

season meets will be limited to four teams with 25 athletes in the competitive gym at one time. At the end of each match the official will instruct the winning wrestler to raise his or her hands while also raising his or her own hands with the same colored wrist band.

Adam Bright, the CHSAA commissioner who oversees wrestling, wrote in his Jan. 15 memo in the state wrestling bulletin that “a recent ranking system ranked our state tournament as third in the country. While this year will be different than those in recent memory, we will continue to work toward the goal of achieving that top ranking.”

Regional tournaments on March 5-6 will be divided into two days with certain weights wrestling each day. The top two boys in each weight class in the four regionals will advance to state while the top four girls in the two regionals will earn a ticket to state.

The 4A, 5A state tournament with eight-athlete brackets and a full consolation bracket will be held March 13 at a still-to-be-determined site.

Justin Saylor is the assistant commissioner who manages hockey and

girls swimming.

“The upcoming season will present challenges we have not had to face during any point in our careers,” he said in his bulletin memo.

“Collectively, we will overcome these challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and be better for it on the other side. I look forward to working with all the coaches, administrators and officials throughout the year.”

Hockey will have another class with 4A being added. There will be a 13-game maximum regular season and a team must play 12 of the 13 games against a league opponent.

There will be 20 participants per team allowed.

There will be a four-team bracket for the 4A and 5A state tournaments and each league will have one automatic qualifier with the fourth team being an at-large selection.

Girls swimming will have a sevenmeet maximum plus the league meets. CHSAA was granted a variance allowing 50 total participants for all teams.

The state meets schedule finds 5A teams competing on March 11, 4A on March 12 and 3A on March 13.

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Elbert County News 11

1February 4, 2021

FROM PAGE 7

in the ground where graves were supposed to be,” O’Hara said.

The shopping center’s development didn’t happen without a fight — O’Hara and others felt the development would be “an eyesore” and produce too much noise, O’Hara said.

Clarice Crowle, one of the founders of the historical society, helped lead a letter-writing campaign to the local governing body at the time — likely the Aurora City Council, O’Hara recalled.

“She had our friends in the newspaper offices write stories about that and put the Melvin-Lewis Cemetery in headlines so that people would notice it,” O’Hara said. “And it was a losing cause, but it was very valiantly done by members of our group and others.”

O’Hara isn’t sure whether the developer planned to preserve the cemetery at first, he said. But ultimately, the developer agreed to build a wall around the cemetery, along with a “beautiful gate,” O’Hara said.

“So we’re happy about that — they did what they promised,” O’Hara said.

The cemetery and much of the surrounding shopping center land are owned by a company called Collett, a real estate firm whose corporate office sits in North Carolina, according to county property records.

The company purchased the shopping center from “Site Centers/ DDR, who purchased it from the Greenberg group,” said Erik Christopher, managing principal with SRS Real Estate Partners. Collett is a client of SRS, Christopher said.

Greenberg was the original developer, he added.

“The preservation (of the cemetery) was part of the land-use protections that accompanied the shopping center acquisition,” said Bobbi Conigliaro, asset manager for Collett. “Although we do not have a right to change it, we are happy to do our part to protect it.”

Conigliaro did not have other information to offer about the cemetery’s history, she said.

O’Hara guesses the original

developer bought the land from the University of Colorado or that it became city land after about 1983, but he couldn’t say for sure. He didn’t know whether the university bought the land from the Lewis family.

The shopping center’s buildings were constructed in 2002, according to county records.

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

‘Place of honor’ O’Hara’s historical society isn’t sure when the first and last burials of remains that weren’t researchrelated took place at the cemetery.

“All we know is the first burial was possibly as early as 1860s, and the last was (likely) 1910,” O’Hara said.

At least some remains were exhumed and moved to Fairmount Cemetery in east Denver, O’Hara said.

The historical society doesn’t know for sure who was buried there, but it’s more certain about one person: Emmaretta Hawkey Lewis, likely interred there in the 1890s, according to the society.

“She died in the 1890s, possibly in childbirth,” O’Hara said. She was married to one of the Lewis men, he added.

“We don’t know who’s there still, we don’t know where if they were, we don’t know when they were placed there and when they (may have been) exhumed,” O’Hara said.

“I try to find out myself, but I run into brick walls.”

The structures that now lie in the cemetery are “bases,” on top of which would have gone the memorials of the buried. Generally, no full tombstones stand now, O’Hara said.

A small memorial in honor of those who donated their bodies to science has sat in the cemetery, and another memorial was made by the Cherry Creek Grange in 1961 in honor of the travelers buried there, O’Hara said. The grange was an organization that included farmers who traded ideas about agriculture, he added.

The cemetery was in bad shape before the shopping center development and the changes it brought, O’Hara said.

“It’s much better,” O’Hara said.

“It’s still not in the greatest shape, but it’s at least in a place of honor where it belongs.”

Answers

Solution © 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.

CEMETERY

THANKS for

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1February 4, 2021

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088

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Public Notice

Elbert County Six Month Report Account Name

000 TREASURER WORKING FUND

0007 COUNTY CAPITAL EXP 010 COUNTY GENERAL

015 PUBLIC HEALTH

020 ROAD & BRIDGE

025 R & B SALES & USE TAX

030 LIBRARY

035 PUBLIC TRUSTEE

040 LAW ENFORCEMENT ASST

050 SOCIAL SERVICES 060 GRANT FUND

065 CONTINGENT FUND

070 RETIREMENT

075 COUNTY CAPITAL IMPROVEMEN

079 SUN COUNTRY MEADOWS PID 080 AMANDA PINES BOND

081 ROLLING HILLS BOND

Beginning Current Tax Balance - -

$16.26 -

$11,960,405.30 $354,014.33 $470,151.73 -

$4,157,371.30 $206,150.35 $3,327,325.23 - -

$9,289.77 -

$138,609.79 -

$1,239,420.23 $32,550.05 $77,266.25 - -

$327,678.03 $16,058.08

$462,468.85 -

$179,779.58 $2,338.07 - -

- -

082 CHAPARRAL VALLEY BOND

$11,497.49 $2,689.88

084 FOXWOOD BOND

$36,716.87 $640.42

083 MEADOW STATION BOND 085 IMPACT FUND

086 ROLLING HILLS CONST

087 RETAC

088 COUNTY CAPITAL IMPROVEMEN

089 US BANK RESERVE ACCT

$57,757.17 $738.18 $1,250,014.44 - -

- -

- -

140 CON 1 GENERAL

142 CON 1 BOND

144 CON 1 BOND ESCROW

221 ELBERT SCHOOL #200 BOND 230 300 FUND

235 CALHAN FIRE GEN FUND 236 CALHAN FIRE BOND

$8,523.07 $58,263.32

$183.43 $1,132.70

$10,101.81 $48,518.61 - -

286 AGATE FIRE PROTECTION 290 ELB WTR/SAN GEN FUND

291 ELB WTR/SAN CAP RESERVE

292 NORTH PINES METRO DIST

-

- ($481.89)

- -

$1,160.24 $1,779.74

$20,698.97 $33,925.47 $5,983.43 $3,517.04 $2,907.94 $486.69 - -

$21,658.88 $387.58

$61,644.49 $1,103.10

295 ELKHORN METRO DIST

$77,101.82 $9,645.64

- -

-

-

$262,931.39 -

$209,284.49

$297,422.75

$102,196.36

-

-

- -

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

$2,448.53

-

-

-

-

-

$5,168.54

-

- -

$3,100.24

- ($19.22)

-

$11,194.10

$523,856.97 ($6,236.09)

-

- -

-

$111.57 -

$55,093.27 $5,407.89

-

-

$0.22

$85,102.25

-

-

-

-Delinquent

-

$34,352.03

-SO Tax Tax & interest $10,481.68 -

-

-

-

$4,613.59 -

- -

- -

- - -

-

$69,689.41

$1,604.76 Balance

- -

-

$6,376.32

-

$18,148.00

-

$21,918.83

-

-

-

Ending-

Page 1 of $706.35 4 $432.40

($209,824.82)

$10,392.44

- - -

- -

($438.49)

($1,316.13)

($58,698.96) -

-

-

$448.06 -

-

- ($87.70)

($97,895.90)

$10,669.53

($44,661.84)

$4,619.29

- ($32.30)

- ($2,876.03)

$13,609.76

-

($13,935.30)

-

($7,141.40)

- -

$18.22

-

($13,379.24)

-

($7,071.69)

- ($35.32)

$1,684.90

-

- ($6.72)

$1,121.83

$8,687.33

-

($16,953.23) Disbursed

- -Treasurer's Receipts- ($12.48) Fees

-

-

-

$5,259.34

- ($587.95)

-

-

($66,786.39)

($61,698.38)

- -

$37,897.37

$870.29

$119,814.49

- ($81.71)

$0.10

$0.63

$4,795.36

($938,419.37)

$31,119.24

- -

$19,601.43

$9,149.29

($231,437.23)

-

-

$41,482.81

- ($116.66)

-

$264,962.42

($46,813.91)

-

$13,029.26

- ($46.20)

$83.03

$4,106.55

($124,436.65)

- -

$30,171.48 $2,410.52

-

- ($115.50)

-

-

-

-

$571,154.41

($35,164.44)

- ($602.81)

-

-

$8,950.99 ($128.20)

- ($270.98)

$412.79

-

($305,895.69)

$69,504.56

-

-

$70,530.76 ($621.00)

$271.31

$113.81

-

-

- ($10.25)

-

$1,713,879.05

- -

$17,252.00 ($76.77)

$1,971.74

-

-

-

$2,824.26 -

-

- -

-

-

-

- ($22.15)

-

-

-

$165.53 ($85.66)

- -

$861.01 $1,177.27

-

$161,562.72

$997,113.31

-

-

$77,833.86 $19,599.50

-

-

$23,859.74

- ($70.13)

-

- -

-

$3,907,582.06

$18,141.78

$1,475.10 $13,269.69 $3,113.60 $1,076.77

-

-

$645,203.09

-

- -

293 NORTH PINES METRO BOND

294 SPRING VALLEY METRO DIST #2

-

$29,798.68

-

$43,703.67 $13,563.13

285 BIG SANDY FIRE PROTECTION

$5.87

-

$669.06 $18,486.79

$2,354,627.82

-

- -

- -

$3,889.22 $35,074.50

-

- -

-

Elbert County- Six Month$203,259.27 Report

$66.82 $371.67

$9,102,276.43

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

- -

$16.26

-

- -

Beginning- $13,935.30 Current Tax $3,101.93 Balance $4,986.86

-

-

$678,566.77 -

-

$2,877.21 $10,502.03

Ending Balance

-

- -

260 ELB FIRE GEN FUND 280 BS WTR GEN FUND

$189,348.33 -

Disbursed

$12.52

$782,583.57

$815,944.44 $95,772.24

270 DT FIRE GEN FUND

$21,843.21 -

$207.11

240 ELIZ FIRE GEN FUND

250 KIOWA FIRE GEN FUND

-

- -

$35,151.22 $240,894.77

$19,318.86 $6,410.26

$25,909.71 $124,780.49

220 200B GEN FUND

-

-

$2,400,638.67 ($71,965.75)

$8,172.84

210 100B GEN FUND

215 SIMLA BOND FUND

-

-

-

$661.94 $4,097.85

211 100J BIG SANDY BOND REDEMPTION FUND

-

-

$26,776.62 $3,838.51

$191,325.06 $30,938.84

201 60B GEN FUND

212 100B BOND REDEMPTION

-

- -

shewlett @ Jan 27, 2021 2:59:41 PM Elbert Treasurer 190 23B GEN FUND $482.21 $2,688.96 205 60B BOND

$1,498,596.65 ($6,187.36)

-

- $32,687.40

192 23B BOND REDEMPTION

-

-

170 RE4B GENERAL FUND

185 RJT1B BOND FUND

$79.23

$182,733.21 -

$92,323.02 -

$12,751.86 $46,662.00

180 RJT1BName GEN FUND Account

- -

-

160 RE1B GENERAL FUND

172 RE4B BOND REDEMPTION

- -

($855,866.86) ($10,625.26)

-

-

$6,270.80 $46,208.14

162 RE1B BOND REDEMPTION

Treasurer's Receipts Fees

$1,099,893.73

-

-

150 CON 2 GENERAL FUND

152 CON 2 BOND REDEMPTION

-

- -

$239,969.58 -

130 TOWN OF SIMLA

$136.41

-

-

095 BOND SERVICE FUND 110 TOWN OF ELIZABETH

-

-

$489,639.06 -

120 TOWN OF KIOWA

-

- -

090 CONSERVATION FUND

091 US BANK PROJECT FUND

Delinquent SO Tax Tax & interest

- ($406.90) - ($53.39)

- ($1,018.31) - ($105.60) - ($14.60)

- -

- ($11.63)

Continued to Next Page - ($33.09)

($14,744.79) ($6,199.54) -

-

$369.05 -

($1,133,320.03)

$40,566.07

($73,460.33)

$3,001.00

($128,940.75) ($2,953.04) ($3,624.27)

$5,802.13 $171.75 $133.24

($65,150.44)

$2,083.67

($4,806.97)

$257.96

($16,752.16) -

($27,434.93)

$1,330.04 -

$976.22

($78,084.02)

$2,778.48

- ($289.37) Elbert County ($105,021.12) Legals

2.4.21$3,355.80 *1

- -

-

-

260 ELB FIRE GEN FUND

$43,703.67 $13,563.13

14270Elbert County News DT FIRE GEN FUND

$861.01 $1,177.27

280 BS WTR GEN FUND

Public Notices

285 BIG SANDY FIRE PROTECTION 286 AGATE FIRE PROTECTION 290 ELB WTR/SAN GEN FUND

291 ELB WTR/SAN CAP RESERVE

$1,160.24 $1,779.74

$20,698.97 $33,925.47 $5,983.43 $3,517.04 $2,907.94 $486.69 - -

Continued From Last Page: Page 2 of 2 292 NORTH PINES METRO DIST

$21,658.88 $387.58

293 NORTH PINES METRO BOND

$61,644.49 $1,103.10

294 SPRING VALLEY METRO DIST #2

- -

295 ELKHORN METRO DIST

296 SPRING VALLEY METRO #2 BOND 298 SPRING VALLEY METRO DIST #4 304 BYERS FIRE DIST NO 9

311 RS FIRE CAP RESERVE

315 NORTH CENTRAL FIRE GENERAL FUND

- ($1,018.31)

-

$1,684.90

- ($14.60)

-

$870.29

$8,687.33 -

- ($11.63)

-

-

- -

$18,148.00

$832.65

- ($73.00)

$4,622.26 $4,493.33

-

-

$88,967.61

-

$82.10

$3,310.74

-

$8.29

-

$87,742.28

-

-

Account Name

354 SCHOOL IMPACT

- -

shewlett @ Jan 27, 2021 2:59:41 PM Elbert Treasurer 355 FIRE IMPACT - 360 ELKHORN RANCH

$2,139.16 -

390 R.R. ESCROW ACCOUNT

- -

395 ELKHORN RANCH METRO BOND

$196,409.94 $24,571.39

422 ARAPAHOE WATER DISTRICT

$11,899.71 -

423 CHAPARRAL VALLEY CONSTRUCTION

- -

424 WILD POINTE

425 WEED CONTROL ESCROW

437 STERLING CROSSING RES METRO DIST

Delinquent SO Tax Tax & interest -

-

$614.05

$727.58

($240,285.36)

$8,491.83

- ($1,638.70)

($414,427.11)

$15,511.53

-

Treasurer's - Receipts Fees - -

-

-

- -

$55,836.27

- ($737.13)

-

-

- -

-

-

Disbursed -

$2,139.16

($267,531.87)

$8,548.60

-

- -

$11,899.71 -

-

$8,200.00 -

-

-

- -

-

- -

-

-

$19.28 -

- - - -

-

-

-

- -

-

-

-

-

-

-

Ending Balance

Page 2 of 4 -

- -

-

-

($17,647.68)

($20,910.74)

- -

- -

-

-

- ($614.66)

-

-

-

- ($124.90)

-

-

$1.27

-

$105.04 -

438 STERLING CROSSING COMM METRO DIST

$44.33

($36.80)

- -

$12,500.00 -

426 WILD POINTE SEWER EXTENSION

-

$12.57

($1,053.97)

-

Beginning Current Tax - Balance

353 STATE DUI INSURANCE

$127.48

($104.25)

- -

-

$101,315.54

$13,621.05

($4,221.06)

$13,433.45

- -

$20.98

-

($386,424.68)

- ($148.00)

$275,643.44 $54,597.38

$3,355.80

($413,180.00)

- ($0.77)

$4,752.30

330 LIBRARY DISTRICT

325 ELIZ PARKS BOND REDEMP

($105,021.12)

- ($981.11)

-

Elbert County$13.10 Six Month Report $55,465.49

$2,778.48

$506.88

$12,102.51 $4,931.51

$173,440.30 $20,472.96

($78,084.02)

($11,784.67)

- ($16.10)

320 ELIZ PARKS & REC GEN FUND

-

$976.22

- ($134.78)

$289.54

$4,010.73

$257.96

$1,330.04

-

- -

-

-

($4,806.97)

($27,434.93)

- ($511.79)

$288.64 $536.22

$10,213.93 $4,161.97

$2,083.67

-

- ($33.09)

-

$133.24

($65,150.44)

($16,752.16)

- -

$6,376.32

-

($3,624.27)

- ($105.60)

-

$3,001.00

February $171.754, 2021F

($2,953.04)

- ($53.39)

$1,155.52 $2,433.37

- -

316 NORTH CENTRAL FIRE BOND

$13,609.76

$0.63

- ($289.37)

$280,393.44 $32,703.52

313 TRI-COUNTY FIRE DISTRICT

$18.22

($73,460.33)

- ($35.32)

$21,918.83

$4.30 $26.25

310 RS FIRE GEN FUND

- ($406.90)

-

$34.72 -

303 LIMON FIRE DISTRICT

$19,601.43

$1,121.83

$77,101.82 $9,645.64

$321,285.27 $17,059.96

297 SPRING VALLEY METRO DIST #3

-

-

-

-

$12,500.00

($115.11)

$9.21

-

$8,200.00 -

439 BRITANIE RIDGE

$20,691.31 $340.02

-

$3,966.41

- ($10.20)

($23,090.92)

$1,896.62

441 DEER CREEK WATER DISTRICT

$35,750.39 $3,861.19

-

$10,372.76

- ($115.83)

($48,280.43)

$1,588.08

443 RITORO METRO DISTRICT

$16,661.00 $958.32

-

$2,410.09

- ($28.75)

($19,631.67)

$368.99

445 $1 SURCHARGE

$39,305.25 -

-

$45,412.25

($98,173.90)

$3,094.33

440 MILLER RANCH METRO DIST

- -

442 AMANDA PINES CONSTRUCTION

- -

444 GOLD CREEK COMMONS METRO DISTRICT

-

-

-

-

- -

-

- -

-

- -

-

-

- -

446 RITORO MD BOND

$83,311.02 $4,791.91

-

$12,051.26

- ($143.76)

($98,165.37)

451 ELBERT & HIWAY 86 METRO BOND

$84,791.32 $22,890.93

-

$26,678.58

- ($686.73)

($129,589.58)

450 ELBERT & HWY 86 METRO DISTRICT

$64,235.83 $17,341.62

455 ELBERT & HWY 86 COMMERCIALMETRO DISTRICT 460 UNITED WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT

465 SUMMIT PARK METRO DISTRICT

$8,279.25 $23.52 - -

$7,424.20 $2,314.78

483 MEADOW STATION CONSTRUCTION

- -

484 FOXWOOD CONSTRUCTION

- -

-

-

-

-

-

-

$20,211.03 $1,601.10 $0.01

$8,526.76 -

-

-

- -

- ($520.25) - ($0.70)

($9,658.04)

- -

($0.01)

- ($69.44) - -

-

-

$1,845.06 $4,084.52

$245.13 -

($16,890.84)

$1,305.46

-

-

-

- -

-

-

583 MEADOW STATION PID

- -

-

-

- -

-

-

600 Elbert w/s delinquent

- -

-

-

- -

-

-

584 FOXWOOD ESTATE & FOXWOOD RANCHES PID

610 TREASURER FEE ON SA COLLECTION

- -

- -

615 INDEPENDENCE METRO DIST NO 1

$2,537.37 $18.16

-

-

-

-

- -

- ($3.00)

-

$561.32

616 INDEPENDENCE MD NO 1 BOND

$13,956.08 $99.85

-

$3,087.36

621 INDEPENDENCE MD NO 2 BOND

$0.01 -

-

$0.06

626 INDEPENDENCE MD NO 3 BOND

$0.03 -

631 INDEPENDENCE MD NO 4 BOND

$0.03 -

620 INDENPENDENCE METRO DISTRICT NO 2

- -

625 INDEPENDENCE METRO DISTRICT NO 3

- - -

635 INDEPENDENCE OVERLAY METRO DISTRICT

640 INDEPENDENCE WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT Account Name 650 E-86 METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

$12.06 -

Beginning Current Tax Balance- $1.66 $15.11

shewlett Jan 27, 2021 2:59:41 PM Elbert$35,156.29 Treasurer 900 ESCROW @ FUND 901 COUNTY SHERIFF

902 TREASURER STALE DATED CHECKS 905 INSURANCE ESCROW

907 ELIZABETH WATER & SAN

908 SIMLA WATER & SAN

910 COUNTY CLERK ESCROW

911 CLERK RETURN CHECK

915 FIRE DISTRICT INCLUSION COVERAGE

950 FUND BALANCE

990 AGATE WATER ASSOCIATION FUNDS TOTAL:

-

-

-

$0.03

Elbert County- Six Month$0.18 Report

630 INDEPENDENCE METRO DISTRICT NO 4

$602.75 -

$1,837.46 -

- -

- -

$319.81 $2,940.01

$1,145,832.16 - -

- -

- -

- -

$28,788,668.67 $1,762,545.50

- -

-

$0.03

-

$2.31

-

$0.18

Delinquent SO Tax Tax & interest -

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

$10.86

-

-

($3,030.37)

-

-

$85.94

($16,667.61)

$472.68

- -

($0.06)

$0.01

- -

($0.18)

$0.03

($0.18)

$0.03

Disbursed-

Ending Balance-

- -

-

- -

($0.03)

- -

($0.03)

- -

- -

Treasurer's Receipts- Fees - ($0.45)

- -

-

- -

($14.02)

($25.52)

-

-

$0.35

$1.66

4 Page - 3 of $34,981.14

- -

$91.19 -

-

-

- ($0.54)

-

-

-

-

- -

$1,928.65

-

-

-

- ($88.20)

$602.75

-

($3,171.62)

-

-

-

$2,523,294.02 -

($2,984,755.10)

$684,371.08

-

- -

-

-

-

-

-

-

$1,074.11

$3,406,522.30

- -

-

- -

-

-

- -

$7,352,324.46 ($109,983.77)

-

-

-

($9,171,330.23)

$21,562,504.00

Legal Notice No.: 24555 | First Publication: February 4, 2021 | Last Publication: February 4, 2021 | Publisher: Elbert County News

Please recycle this newspaper.

Elbert County Legals 2.4.21 * 2

Elbert County News 15

1February 4, 2021

PERFORMERS FROM PAGE 6

hate worse than poetry, is when it’s screamed at them by a stranger,” said Kingsford.

She suggested that he get a typewriter to choose a topic and write for strangers.

“I started doing that and never looked back. It’s incredible,” he said.

Crying and hugging

Kingsford’s poetry has touched many hearts with his words, none more than his own — sometimes in ways he has a hard time describing.

“You know, I can’t even imagine as a poet, I should have had a word for it,” said Kingsford.

A few years ago a woman approached him and asked for a poem.

“She was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor, and she had six months to live. She wanted me to write her a poem that made her not afraid of death,” said Kingsford.

“I wrote her poem. Then we cried together and hugged, and then she left.”

Have Remington, will travel

Why did Kingsford choose an antique Remington typewriter to create his poems?

“I own about 11 typewriters. Three of them are Remington portables because they are incredible,” he said. “It’s like a laptop. It’s small, the fonts are 10 points and I average from three to 16 lines. I only use little quarter sheets of paper to write my poems. So you can fit a lot of words.”

As far as personalizing each poem, Kingsford said he relies on the subject to get him started. Some people offer up their whole life story, others only give non-verbal clues.

“There are other poets who do

Kyle Lang was inspired to play drums as an outlet to express himself.

this, and they have their methods.

I don’t like to ask a lot of questions, I don’t want to put words in your mouth or suggestions. I ask people to give me whatever they have at that moment,” said Kingsford.

Kingsford is available at 720-5469494 or by email at devankingsford@ gmail.com to book him for an event or to create a special poem for a loved one.

Street musicians

Olschner plays guitar and Lang plays drums. Both have been playing music since they were children and have been playing together for a short time. Lang loves instrumental math-rock music, and Olschner loves jazz. So the plan is to form a jazz combo and do covers with popular tunes.

Olschner 24, was born and raised in Arvada. He attended Pomona High School in Arvada, learning

PHOTO BY BELEN WARD

choir and musical theater. Olschner went to Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington, and studied philosophy and music.

He has been playing guitar since he was 16 years old and mostly earns income full time as a street performer in Denver and Boulder — supplemented by walking his brother’s dog for extra income.

Kyle Lang, 21, was adopted from Korea and grew up in Westminster.

He is studying psychology at Front Range Community College and was a music major at Metropolitan State University. He’s been playing drums for 12 years, which supplements his regular paycheck from NAPA Auto Parts in Boulder.

Expressions and Guitar Hero

Lang was inspired to play drums to express himself.

“It’s another way for me to speak, and it gives me a creative outlet to express myself,” said Lang.

Olschner was inspired to play guitar by a music computer game.

“I grew up playing the game Guitar Hero 3 and I loved the soundtrack so much,” Olschner said. “I realized that I could play the songs on a real guitar if I practiced enough. When I was a sophomore in high school, my friend sold me his acoustic guitar with a buzzy string for $20, and I haven’t looked back since.”

He’d like to open a private lesson studio teaching students music theory and guitar techniques.

“I am working towards producing original music, music videos, and educational videos for the internet as another source of income down the line,” said Olschner.

Lang’s short-term goal is to finish his degree at Colorado State University. After graduation, he plans to start a career in counseling.

“My long-term goal is buying a Honda Civic type R,” said Lang.

Mall music

Olschner enjoys performing his music for people on the 16th Street Mall and the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder. The practice has developed him into an experienced performer.

“The people are very generous with their tips when they are enjoying the music. I love making cash tips, because it allows me to pay for my rent and my groceries as I continue to develop my career as a professional musician,” said Olschner.

Lang enjoys playing at the mall for a variety of people.

“Music always brings people together... I love the crowd, and I love being able to share my craft with others,” Lang said.

Lang and Olschner’s plans are to play Sunday jazz night at Dazzle in downtown Denver. You can watch the Lang and Olschner on tiktok with username @cattrumpets.

Public Notices Legals

East Central BOCES and/or its member districts would like to locate all 0 through 21 year olds, who may have a disability.

City and County

The Colorado Department of Education maintains a comprehensive child identification system consistent with Part B of IDEA and ensures that each Local Education Agency (LEA), in collaboration with a variety of community resources, assumes the leadership role in establishing and maintaining a process in their community for the purpose of locating, identifying and evaluating all children, birth to 21 years, who may have a disability and may be eligible for services and supports under Part C or special education services under Part B of IDEA.

Public Notice NOTICE OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE Pursuant to Chapter 5, Article II of the Town of Elizabeth Municipal Code and 31-32-102 C.R.S., notice is hereby given that the Town Board of Trustees will consider adoption of the following named and described ordinance during its Regular meetings on February 23 and March 9, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. at the Town of Elizabeth, Town Hall, 151 S Banner St, Elizabeth, Colorado, 80107.

Title of Proposed Ordinance: An Ordinance Approving a Franchise Agreement Between the Town of Elizabeth, Colorado and Intermountain Rural Electric Association Subject Matter Summary: The proposed ordinance renews the Town’s franchise agreement with Intermountain Rural Electric Association (IREA) for a period of twenty years.

The entire text of the proposed ordinance is available for public inspection upon request of the Town Clerk. In response to COVID-19, Town Offices are closed to the public and walk-in services. To schedule a meeting with the Administrator, Town and Court Clerks, please call (303) 646-4166 extension 2 or 3.

Legal Notice No. 24553 First Publication: February 4, 2021 Last Publication: March 4, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

Misc. Private Legals PUBLIC NOTICE CHILD FIND

Ages 0 through 5 year-old concerns should be directed to the following: • • • • • • • • • •

Cheyenne County (Cheyenne Wells and Kit Carson Schools) Lincoln County (Genoa-Hugo School) Yuma County (Idalia & Liberty Schools) Kit Carson County (Bethune, Stratton, Arriba-Flagler & Hi-Plains Schools) Arapahoe County (Byers, Deer Trail, Strasburg & Bennett Schools) Washington County (Arickaree & Woodlin Schools) Adams County (Bennett, Strasburg, Byers and Deer Trail Schools) Lincoln County (Limon & Karval Schools) Elbert County (Agate & Kiowa Schools) Kit Carson County (Burlington Schools)

Please contact: Stacey Schillig, Child Find Coordinator - (719) 775-2342, ext. 133 All 5 through 21 year-old concerns should be directed to the local school district administrator, special education teacher, East Central BOCES (719) 775-2342, ext. 101.

Services for infants and toddlers are voluntary.

The East Central BOCES member schools are: Bennett, Strasburg, Byers, Deer Trail, Agate, Woodlin, Arickaree, Limon, Genoa-Hugo, Karval, Kiowa, Kit Carson, Cheyenne Wells, ArribaFlagler, Hi-Plains, Stratton, Bethune, Burlington, Liberty, and Idalia.

References: IDEA, Part C, Section 303.320-323 IDEA, Part B, Section 300.125 ECEA CCR 301-8 2220-R-4.01-4.04(4) East Central BOCES Comprehensive Plan Section III Process of Identifying

the Rutherford County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.

Legal Notice No. 24552 First Publication: February 4, 2021 Last Publication: February 4, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

APPROVED BY: /s/ Martha Gillespie-Stewart Martha M. Gillespie-Stewart, BPR#032125 Assistant General Counsel Tennessee Department of Children’s Services 434 Jayhawk Court Murfreesboro, TN 37128 615-217-8907

Public Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TENNESSEE No. 77504 STATE OF TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN’S SERVICES, Petitioner, vs.

Rebecca Ann Floyd, Mother And Billy Brown, Father of Aliyah Respondents.

IN THE MATTER OF: Aliyah Floyd : D.O.B 1/4/2006 CHILD UNDER EIGHTEEN (18) YEARS OF AGE NOTICE TO: RESPONDENT, REBECCA FLOYD The State of Tennessee, Department of Children’s Services, has filed a Petition against you seeking to terminate forever your parental rights to Aliyah Floyd. It appears that ordinary process of law cannot be served upon you because your whereabouts are unknown or you are evading service. You are hereby ORDERED to appear in the Rutherford County Circuit Court on April 6, 2021 at 10:00 A.M. to personally answer the Petition for Termination of Parental Rights. The trial shall be held before the Honorable Darrell Scarlett for the Rutherford County Circuit Court located at 116 W Lytle St., Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Failing to appear for the hearing on this date and time, without good cause will result in the loss of your right to contest the petition to terminate your parental rights to the child listed above. You may view and obtain a copy of the Petition and any other subsequently filed legal documents at

Entered the 11th day of January, 2021. /s/ Darrell Scarlett HONORABLE Judge Darrell Scarlett

Legal Notice No. 24554 First Publication: February 4, 2021 Last Publication: February 25, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

Public Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS BY PUBLICATION PURSUANT TO § 15-12-801, C.R.S. In the Matter of the Estate of: BRUCE CULTER RICHARDS, a/k/a BRUCE RICHARDS, a/k/a BRUCE C. RICHARDS, Deceased Case Number: 2020 PR 30039

All persons having claims against the abovenamed Estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the Elbert County District Court on or before June 8, 2021, or the claims may be forever barred.

Legal Notice No. 24551 First Publication: February 4, 2021 Last Publication: February 18, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News Public Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Michael G. Bowman, Deceased Case Number: 2020PR030029

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Elbert County, Colorado, on or before May 21, 2021 or the claims may be forever barred.

Attorney for Personal Representatives: Phillip A. Less, #3440 HELM, LESS & WILLIAMS, L.L.P. 5400 Ward Road, Bldg. III, Ste. 100 Arvada, CO 80002 Phone Number: (303) 424-4486 FAX Number: (303) 424-4993 E-mail: paless@arvadalaw.net

Public Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Gaylene Takako Uyemura, aka Gaylene T. Uyemura, aka Gaylene Uyemura, Deceased Case Number: 2021PR30000

Janice R. Ogawa, Personal Representative 8122 West Frost Avenue Littleton, CO 80128

Notice to Creditors

Holly R. Shaklee & Rebecca L. Richards, Co-Personal Representatives

Legal Notice No. 24544 First Publication: January 21, 2021 Last Publication: February 4, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before May 28, 2021, or the claims may be forever barred.

Carolyn M. Schaffer Attorney to the Personal Representative 5460 South Quebec St. #310 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Legal Notice No. 24549 First Publication: January 28, 2021 Last Publication: February 11, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

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Elbert County Legals 2.4.21 * 3

16 Elbert County News

February 4, 2021

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