Elbert County News 0211

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February 11, 2021

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ELBERT COUNTY, COLORADO VOLUME 126 | ISSUE 2

Sheriff, commissioner hear from anti-mandates group ‘Elbert County STANDS UP’ voices concerns to Norton, Richardson

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Elbert County STANDS UP, a citizen group in Elbert County that views COVID restrictions as violations of their constitutional rights, COURTESY OF MAGGIE WITHERBEE meets regularly at the Kiowa Creek Community Church.

A group of nearly 200 concerned citizens who identify as “Elbert County STANDS UP” invited Elbert County Sheriff Tim Norton and Elbert County Commissioner Chris Richardson to attend a meeting at Kiowa Creek Community Church Jan. 31, and demanded to know whether Norton and commissioners would be complying with state mandates regard- Richardson ing COVID-19, which group members feel are a violation of their constitutional rights.

“The concern, basically, was: Were they going to uphold the Constitution in our county?” said MagNorton gie Witherbee, who organized the group in December and has orchestrated four meetings over the ensuing weeks.

“A lot of people feel the emergency order has no basis and isn’t sufficiently backed up with facts and information.”

The group believes the mask mandate is a violation of their personal rights and that there hasn’t been scientific information that it is effective. They also believe that making students wear masks and restricting in-person learning is dangerous, and that closing of businesses is not within Gov. Jared Polis’ authority.

“I was invited to attend the meeting and answer questions,” said Richardson. “We have a local pastor SEE GROUP, P9

INSIDE: VOICES: PAGE 8 | LIFE: PAGE 12 | CALENDAR: PAGE 11 | SPORTS: PAGE 13

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A wonderful world of monsters awaits on the 16th Street Mall P12

2 Elbert County News

February 11, 2021F

Group formally initiates recall process to oust school board directors Recall effort targets four directors amid COVID-19 controversy

BY JESSICA GIBBS JGIBBS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A group seeking to oust four members of the Douglas County School Board has formally initiated the recall process and now awaits the green light from Douglas County’s clerk and recorder to begin collecting signatures on petitions.

Castle Rock resident Nate Ormond, who is spearheading the effort, submitted proposed petitions to the county on Feb. 2, seeking approval to start the signature-gathering process in hopes of recalling directors Christina Ciancio-Schor, Susan Meek, Elizabeth Hanson and board President David Ray. “We’re ready to rock and roll,” Ormond said.

The proposed petitions allege directors have shown a “lack of leadership” by frequently shifting plans during COVID-19, and claims they mismanaged tax dollars by purchasing an e-learning program that weathered a rocky launch to the school year.

The petitions also say board directors have shown a “lack of trust and transparency” by not being responsive enough to emails and by disregarding survey results, and claims they “misled the public on the departure of their superintendent.”

Delays to school and problems with both the e-learning and hybrid models also caused “lost learning opportunities,” the petitions allege.

Ray and Ciancio-Schor were not immediately available for comment.

Meek called the recall effort “an expression of the division” within the community.

“The reality is, we are in the middle of the most complex school year in U.S. history, and our community, just like the rest of the nation, is pretty divided,” she said.

She criticized recall proponents who have spoken at recent board meetings for pushing the reopening of middle and high schools to full, in-person learning. The district can’t maintain that learning model

while also socially distancing its students, she said.

Meek said she was not able to see the petition statements until after midnight, once the Feb. 2 board meeting concluded, but she refuted allegations the district is mishandling the pandemic.

She emphasized the district started its school year with hybrid learning and said “the in-person hybrid learning option stayed open longer than other metro districts.”

This semester, elementary students began with 100% in-person learning while secondary students worked with their teachers each day amid remote learning, she said.

That illustrates the district is working to balance public health risks with education needs, she said.

Meek said that the cost of a recall election if proponents are successful would further burden the district, which this summer cut nearly $31 million from its budget amid the pandemic.

“It’s irresponsible to move forward with the the recall months before a scheduled election where the majority of seats will be up,” she said. “It’s wasteful and a distraction.”

Hanson called the challenges board directors faced in the past year “truly inconceivable.” The governor shuttered schools. The district made more than $30 million in budget cuts. Guidance for schools from “multiple agencies” constantly shifted, she said.

“I had two months on the board before we began navigating the unprecedented global pandemic,” she said. “Then COVID turned the world upside down.”

Directors spent weeks during the summer laboring over how to make cuts to the district’s budget amid a massive shortfall, she said, saying some departments were almost cut entirely. Directors aimed to keep cuts away from the classroom and focused on central offices, she said.

Pushing back

Hanson rebutted the allegation that she has not shown sufficient leadership during the pandemic.

She works 40 to 60 hours a week in her volunteer position as a director, she said, and in school board meetings asked for the public’s patience while she responds to hundreds of

emails a week as board secretary.

“I am proud of that and I will continue to put in those hours,” she said.

Hanson said the choice to purchase the district’s e-learning curriculum was a decision made by former Superintendent Thomas Tucker and former Chief Academic Officer Marlena Gross-Taylor under broadened authority that the directors gave the superintendent in March.

The purchase concerned her as well because it was large and staff informed the board of its purchase after the fact, she said.

She also said the district is balancing the need to get students back to any in-person learning with taking COVID-19 precautions required by state guidelines. She called hybrid learning the best compromise.

“I absolutely want kids to be inperson. We all agree that in-person learning is the best learning environment. I want to make sure we can do it safely,” she said. “I also think that when we have a lack of consistency, we see significant learning gaps.”

Douglas County Clerk and Recorder Merlin Klotz has seven days to approve or reject the proposed petitions from the time they are received. If the petitions get his approval, recall proponents have 60 days to gather signatures.

Klotz has informed the group its paperwork was not submitted correctly, a county spokeswoman said.

The group can submit its petitions for review again once they are properly formatted.

Ormond said the group has 400 volunteers enlisted to circulate petitions. Ormond estimated the effort will require gathering 80,000 signatures, or 20,000 for each board member.

The county spokeswoman said no more than 15,000 valid signatures are required under state statute.

Drive would be pricey

The recall drive is also likely to be an expensive undertaking. Ormond has publicly pledged $100,000 of his personal funds to the cause, although he estimates the group would need to raise roughly $1 million in total.

Ormond said he registered a 501(c)4 called Road2Recall to collect

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donations and fund the recall effort.

On Jan. 25 the four directors targeted for recall issued a statement through Ray saying they understood “emotions are running high” regarding the best delivery of education for students during COVID-19.

They pledged to focus on what was best for students as the district navigates the remainder of this semester.

“We will continue to listen and consider all diverse perspectives (students, staff and parents) while adhering to public health guidance,” the statement said.

In the days leading up to filing recall petitions, Ormond told Colorado Community Media that the pandemic is not the group’s only concern but became the catalyst for pursuing a recall.

Directors had months during the summer to plan for conducting education amid COVID-19, he said, and should have been able to return students to in-person learning sooner this semester.

“This board’s failure to implement a clear policy to keep the teachers safe and to allow the children to come back to in-person learning has just drastically failed,” he said.

Ormond said the virus poses a legitimate health risk and danger for high-risk populations, but that the state has laid out clear guidelines for conducting in-person learning safely.

“We know that masks are important, and they can be worn, and we know that we need to limit contact and quickly jump on contact tracing,” he said.

He faults directors for not having “figured out a way to implement those guidelines” and pointed to lowering COVID-19 incidence rates in the county as another supporting reason to reopen schools.

He grew frustrated watching the district pivot learning models multiple times during the 2020-21 school year, and he decided in early January to organize a recall effort.

While district schools mostly conducted hybrid learning during the first semester, the district switched back to full-remote learning amid mass quarantines and substitute teacher shortages before the semester’s end.

SEE RECALL, P10

Elbert County News 3

1February 11, 2021

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4 Elbert County News

February 11, 2021F

Unemployment benefits resume for some, not all More phases remain to roll out after state, federal lawmakers blew December deadline

BY TAMARA CHUANG THE COLORADO SUN

Feb. 1 brought relief to more than 60,000 out-of-work Coloradans who were able to request federal benefits for the first time in five weeks — and that included a $300 weekly bonus retroactive to Dec. 27, the start of the federal COVID relief package.

“I was able to request all the way back until Dec. 27,” said an overjoyed Kevin Saunders, a restaurant worker living in Parker who ended last year on Pandemic Unemployment Assistance.

Saunders was one of 230,000 people allowed back into the system as part of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s Phase 1 of the new federal benefits. Another group of users currently collecting regular state unemployment were automatically sent retroactive $300-per-week payments over the weekend.

Labor officials said $61 million in retroactive $300 payments were paid to those on regular unemployment on Saturday for the program

known as Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation. But those users didn’t need to lift another finger to get them. They were paid automatically when Phase 1 began last week.

On Feb. 1, it was those with pandemic benefits leftover on Dec. 26 who could reopen their accounts.

By 4 p.m., about 62,000 of them had logged into the system to request a combined total of 150,000 weeks of payments. Most of those weeks were for back-pay, which is allowed under the federal Continued Assistance Act. The new plan also extends pandemic benefits for 11 more weeks.

More details expected But there are still several groups of people desperately waiting for their federal benefits to restart in the so-called Phase 2. These are mostly people who used up all of their federal benefits by Dec. 26. Some have gone without assistance since late November.

The delay was caused by state and federal lawmakers approving the new COVID relief plan a day after the CARES Act-funded programs ended. The state also had to wait on federal guidance and complete an overhaul of its unemployment computer system.

“I have no option to reopen a claim,” Mark Geis said Feb. 1 in an email, also noting that he’s had trouble finding shelter as he waits

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for his benefits to restart. “I am so cold and don’t know what to do. …

Do you have any indications as to when Phase 2 will roll out? If it’s weeks I know I won’t make it.”

No date has been given for Phase 2.

Department of Labor officials said the focus has been on Phase 1. “All resources have been dedicated to Phase 1 as this impacts the greatest number of claimants,” said Jessica Hudgins Smith, a labor department spokeswoman.

She said that they hope to have a better “expected timeline for the launch of Phase 2 by the end of the week.” Some work needs to still be done to estimate what development, production, testing and deployment is needed before they can implement phase 2.

But no launch has been without some issues. Some were figured out by users online, such as people were mistakenly trying to log into the old MyUI computer system, instead of MyUI+.

Another user mentioned that when she switched from Google Chrome to the Microsoft Edge browser, it worked (ditto with another user who went from Safari to Edge). Another user said he was stuck in a loop when he tried to request a payment — the link sent him back to the main page. The state said it is investigating issues but did not confirm there were any problems on Feb. 1

A success, and a mess And not everyone was as lucky as Saunders, the Parker resident who was able to reopen his PUA claim and file for five weeks of retroactive payments. He had been on State Extended Benefits until that program ended Nov. 28. But he then jumped to PUA, as the state instructed. He was able to join Phase 1 because he still had benefits remaining on his PUA account.

But others in the same situation who should have been able to reopen their claim were shut out on Feb. 1. Online messages boards described the frustration of being unable to reopen their accounts and request a payment.

Department officials did not say whether this was caused by a computer glitch or some other issue, but those on SEB who had moved to PUA and still had a balance on Dec. 26 “will be able to reopen their claims tomorrow and request payment for all back weeks,” Smith said.

The state’s unemployment call center was slammed all day with users reporting that they were on hold for hours, only to be hung up on, and then calling back and being put back on hold. Some people, like Andy Broderick, kept trying and finally got through to a human, though he learned his issue SEE UNEMPLOYMENT, P5

Elbert County News 5

1February 11, 2021

County planning commission welcomes two new members Roger Burton, Jason Vermillion join panel made up of nine volunteers

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Roger Burton and Jason Vermillion were appointed to the Elbert County Planning Commission during the Jan. 27 meeting of the Board of County Commissioners. Burton filled a vacant position and Vermillion replaced Kipp Parker, who resigned. The two joined seven sitting commission members who serve on the volunteer board that serves as an advisory board to the BOCC. “It is extremely important that we have willing volunteers so we have good representatives of their area,” said Christina Stanton, director of community and development services for Elbert County.

“There are a lot of differences between all of the districts and thoughts on growth and

development, so having a good representation is vital.”

Stanton said it was also important that the board operate with nine commissioners, three from each district, because they need at least five in attendance to make decisions.

“If we have commissioners who can’t make it to a meeting, that upsets our quorum,” said Stanton. “We have to have five show up in order to have an item move forward.

If not, we have to continue the item until we can meet quorum.”

Planning commissioners are appointed by the BOCC and serve three-year terms, unless they are replacing someone who left before their term was finished, like Vermillion has since Parker’s departure.

The planning commission serves as an advisory committee to the BOCC, and makes recommendation on applications brought before the board. All land use applications, after completing first and second referrals and being reviewed by the county’s Community & Development

Services Department, then go before the planning commission. Based on existing zoning regulations and the county’s master plan, commissioners can either recommend approval, approval with conditions or denial of the application. Recommendations are presented to the BOCC. “It’s important that we have folks that are willing to work together,” said Stanton. “The commissioners have to go through all the regulations and determine if an application meets the regulations.”

Dan Michalak, Justin Klassen and Roger Burton are commissioners for district one. Danny Wilcox is the chairperson for the commission and represents district two, along with Van Sands and Peter Hoogendyk. Linda Krausert, Jerry Franken and Jason Vermillion represent district three.

The planning commission meets the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. During COVID meetings are viewable via Zoom through the county’s website at www.elbertcounty-co.gov.

UNEMPLOYMENT FROM PAGE 4

would still take a few days to resolve.

“All I can do is log in and see my stuff,” said Broderick, whose account was locked so he cannot request a payment or see what, if any, issues remain part of his claim.

Broderick, a PUA user, has been shut out of benefits since his account was flagged as fraudulent in October. Two weeks ago, he was able to verify his ID using the new ID.me tool provided by the labor department.

Typically, the hold is lifted within 24 hours, Smith said.

But Smith said there could be other reasons that would need “additional investigation by staff beyond that ID.me verification,” she said. “The vast majority of claimants that successfully pass verification through ID.me will not require any additional investigation to clear the hold on the claim. For those that successfully pass the ID.me verification but have a hold requiring additional investigation, our investigators will contact them in order to complete that investigation.”

There are still thousands of Colorado people with “program integrity” or fraud holds. They must call 303-536-5615 to get a link to ID.me. Those who don’t verify themselves won’t be allowed to request benefits.

As of Jan. 29, the agency had sent out 11,542 invitations to accounts with fraud holds — and only about half had tried out the app. Of those, 1,428 completed the process and the state paid out $1.5 million to those users.

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 11, 2021F

Colorado to loosen restrictions in color-coded COVID-19 dial New-case threshold eased, putting metro counties in yellow or close to blue

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In the latest ratcheting down of Colorado’s COVID-19 restrictions, the state public-health department announced plans to drastically ease the limits that allow counties to remain in certain color-coded levels of coronavirus restrictions.

The proposed “dial 2.0” changes would put Denver metro counties in level yellow, likely promising loosened business-capacity restrictions. Some would even sit close to entering the notably low blue level.

The move comes as the number of vaccinated Coloradans continues to grow, Jill Hunsaker Ryan, the department’s executive director, said in a news release.

“This updated proposal is based on Colorado’s disease and vaccination rates, plus input from local public health agencies and local governments, and we are seeking the public’s help to refine it further,” Hunsaker Ryan added in the Jan. 30 afternoon announcement.

The department gave Coloradans two days to submit comments on the proposed changes.

View the full proposed changes at tinyurl.com/NewCOVIDdial.

The final changes were to be available shortly after the comment period closed.

The state’s COVID-19 dial is the set of restrictions counties must follow based on local virus spread.

The level a county qualifies for on the dial generally depends on the county’s rate of new cases, its percentage of COVID-19 tests that come back positive, and whether hospitalizations are increasing, stable or declining.

The current version of level red — a relatively new addition that took effect Nov. 20 in metro Denver and other areas of the state — banned private gatherings and indoor dining at restaurants, and tightened capacity limits at some types of businesses. Red is the second-highest level next to purple, a stay-at-home order. Eventually, more than half the state’s 64 counties operated in level red.

Citing improving virus trends, Gov. Jared Polis on Dec. 30 announced that he told the state public-health department to move counties from red to orange effective Jan. 4 — even though many didn’t meet requirements for level orange according to the dial system.

Weeks later, roughly half of Colorado’s counties still had “incidence rates,” or rates of new cases, that meant they should technically be in level red, according to a chart in the draft of the proposed changes. The data was updated on Jan. 27, the chart says.

Now, the state public-health department intends to greatly relax the requirements for new-case rates that correspond to some of the dial’s six levels. Other levels’ thresholds will see less dramatic changes.

Under the current dial system, if a county crosses 350 new cases per 100,000 people over a two-week period, that generally requires the county to move to level red, although state officials, including Polis, haven’t held firm to that guideline.

The COVID-19 dial public health order — the document that outlines how the dial works — gives the state public-health department flexibility in choosing to change a county’s level.

“CDPHE reserves the right to move counties one or more levels more quickly as circumstances warrant,” one part of the public health order says.

In an apparent effort to align the dial system closer to how state officials have actually applied it, the line a county needs to cross to enter level red was proposed to change drastically. Rather than 350, the threshold would essentially change to 1,000. The line for level orange, the level nearly all counties were operating in as of Jan. 31, was 175. Now, it could change to 600. Level yellow’s threshold could change from 75 to 200.

The state plans to start measuring new-case rates in seven-day periods rather than 14-day chunks, so technically, the new thresholds are about 500 for red, 300 for orange and 100 for yellow over seven-day windows.

The draft of the new rules appears to list seven-day thresholds as equal to half of what the numbers would be over 14-day periods.

The limits for blue and the lowest level, green, would basically stay the same. Qualifying for level green, known as “protect our neighbors,” involves different criteria such as supply of personal protective equipment, or PPE, according to the draft of the new rules.

A county could only land itself in level purple, a stay-at-home order, if hospital capacity risks being breached, according to the current dial system. The new rules could tweak that standard so that a county would only enter a stay-athome order if statewide hospital capacity risks being breached.

Under the new rules, limits on COVID-19 test-positivity rates would become stricter. For example, rather than a limit of 10% test positivity to remain in level yellow, counties could only remain in yellow with positivity rates up to 7.5%.

“Testing is an important containment strategy, and we want to encourage counties to continue to test,” the draft of the new rules says.

SEE DIAL, P7

Elbert County News 7

1February 11, 2021

Differences between orange and yellow Looking for the latest COVID-19 vaccine information?

The Tri-County Health Department is your up-to-date source to determine when you may be eligible to receive the vaccine, how and where to get it. Visit tchd.org/ COVIDVaccine or call 303-220-9200.

Philip S. Miller Grant applications due Feb. 26 Applications are accepted through 5 p.m., Feb. 26 for the 2021 Philip S. Miller funds. For applicant requirements and details visit douglas.co.us and search for Miller Grants or contact Kim Smith at 303.660.7490.

DIAL FROM PAGE 6

State officials met with several groups to discuss the potential changes, including local public health agencies, county commissioners, mayors and city managers, the draft says.

“The dial has been a useful tool in helping us to manage our response to the pandemic, but it needs to be updated based on lessons learned over the past five months,” John Douglas, executive director of Tri-County Health Department, said in the news release.

New levels and `5-Star’ businesses The proposed rules would move some Denver metro counties from orange down one level to yellow, and other nearby counties would stand closer to moving another notch down to blue.

As of Feb. 1, the state’s website listed Adams County’s incidence rate at 338, Arapahoe’s at 353, Douglas’ at 314, Denver’s at 314 and Broomfield’s at 338. Those counties, all in level orange under the current rules, could move to yellow under the new framework.

Jefferson County sat at 284 as of Feb. 1, so if the virus’ spread continued to drop and Jefferson’s rate dipped to 200, the county could end up in level blue soon. Elbert County sat even closer at 236.

Those are rough estimates using two-week incidence rates, while the new framework would measure trends in one-week rates. The state public-health department could not be immediately reached to confirm the estimates.

Across the state, most counties are expected to be in orange or yellow, with some in blue, once the new dial system takes effect, the draft says.

The proposed rules arrive amid confusion regarding the state’s 5-Star State Certification Program, under which a business can operate with expanded capacity if it follows stepped-up COVID-19 safety protocols. The 5-Star program allows qualifying businesses to follow restrictions that are one

level less severe than they otherwise would need to based on their county’s color level on the dial.

Although the state manually moved counties from red to orange effective Jan. 4, counties still needed to meet the orange requirements in earnest before 5-star certified businesses could operate one level lower — at level yellow — according to the state publichealth department.

Now, under the proposed rules, 5-Star businesses would be still allowed to operate one level lower on the dial than they otherwise would. That raises the possibility that 5-Star businesses in many metro counties that would move to yellow could operate at blue restrictions.

The businesses may not operate at green, or “Protect Our Neighbors,” restrictions unless the county is formally in the Protect Our Neighbors level, the draft says.

More changes on way in spring, summer The proposed modifications wouldn’t change each color level’s capacity restrictions, and they include no changes to school settings.

“Dial 3.0 will occur in the spring, and we will seek input for this evolution and again for an update this summer,” the draft framework says.

A final update to the dial is expected to happen in early summer, the draft adds.

The proposed winter changes are an effort to “continue to balance disease transmission with economic hardship,” the draft framework says.

“Our top priority has always been to prevent a breach of the hospital system. With vaccine distribution and higher levels of immunity in our 70+ population, there is less pressure on the system,” the draft adds.

Since a post-holiday spike in new cases has appeared to subside, the rate of daily new cases in Colorado has continued to fall again in recent weeks, a chart in the draft shows. Hospitalizations have also fallen on a generally steady trend since early December, another chart shows.

Volunteer to serve on the CSU Extension Advisory Council Do you have time to give and an interest in 4-H and youth development, agriculture/gardening, community engagement, and family wellness? Apply by March 5 to join the CSU Extension Advisory Council. It’s your opportunity to help shape the Extension’s education and programming efforts in your community. Visit douglas. co.us and search CSU Extension Advisory Council.

Decode Douglas County Outdoors Visit eight Douglas County Open Space or Park locations, and look for clues to crack the code. Pick up your 2021 booklet today, discover new places, and decode the secret of Douglas County Outdoors! Visit dcoutdoors. org/decode to start your outdoor adventure.

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

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

Holiday office closure Douglas County offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 15, 2021.

Many services are available 24/7 at DoItOnlineDouglas.com

Visit douglas.co.us

8 Elbert County News

LOCAL

February 11, 2021F

VOICES Five-dollar words may not make cents

T

his column is overdue, so I am going to overdo it.

Are you stationary or stationery?

Recently when I erred, a reader corrected me: “You wrote ‘cue’ when QUIET you meant ‘queue.’”

DESPERATION My tale was between my legs.

Let’s go to Homophone City first. It’s write on the way.

Their, they’re, there.

So, sew. Sue, Sioux. Red, read.

Stationary, statioCraig Marshall nery. To, too, two.

Smith Homophones are two or more words that have the same pronunciation but different meanings and spellings.

There’s more.

Homographs are two or more words that have the same spelling but are not necessarily pronounced the same and have different meanings.

Homonyms are two or more words that have the same spelling or pro-

nunciation but different meanings.

Am this putting a spell on you?

Examples of homophones: pray and prey.

Examples of homographs: lean and lean.

Examples of homonyms: bark and bark.

A twenty carat ring might be worth fifteen thousand dollars.

A twenty carrot ring might be worth considerably less.

“Less is more,” someone said.

If your name is Les, then what?

My dog’s name, Harry, is a homophone and a homograph. To “harry” means “to persistently carry out attacks on.”

If it’s scary enough, a roller coaster ride can be “harry” too.

Speaking of “it’s.” “It’s” and “its” are written wrong awl the thyme.

There’s “a lot” and there’s “allot,” but there’s no “alot.”

Gertrude Stein said, “There is no there there.”

“I saw the saw with my own eyes,” the sea captain said.

I have the toughest time distinguishing between complimentary and complementary.

“That’s a beautiful hat you’re

wearing, Sonja,” is complimentary.

Red and green are complementary colors.

Learning how to read is one of the great adventures in life. And so is learning how to listen and understand that a “great adventure” is different than a “grate adventure.”

Some humorists rely on word confusion.

A conversation between Groucho and Chico (pronounced “Chick-o”) Marx was often a non-stop contest of mangled language at a dizzying speed.

There are so many wordplays in a Marc Brothers film, one after the other, I can’t assimilate them.

Therefore, every time I watch “Duck Soup” it seems new to me.

“What about the taxes?”

“I’ve got an uncle who lives in Texas.”

“Gentlemen, Cicolini here may talk like an idiot and look like an idiot. But don’t let that fool you: He really is an idiot.”

If you know someone who appreciates homophones, homographs, and homonyms it can be tiring to be around them.

I know: I have to live with myself.

Just about everything is ripe for the word playground.

“Jose, can you see?”

Yes, some song lyrics are misunderstood.

“I can see clearly now, Lorraine is gone.”

“This is the dawning of the Age of Aquariums.”

A friend said her wedding “went off without a hitch.”

“Then you’re not married?” She didn’t get it.

My own marriage did go off without a hitch. When the justice of the peace asked, “Greg, do you take this woman to be your awfully wedding wife?” I said “Adieu,” and left.

Groucho quipped, “Love goes out the door when money comes innuendo.”

Dorothy Parker said, “And I’ll stay off Verlaine too; he was always chasing Rimbauds.”

But seriously.

As Alexander Woollcott remarked, “Nothing risqué, nothing gained.”

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

Accountability by any other name is still accountability

“T

here I was, alone in the kitchen, 30 days into the New Year and my personal goal of shedding 25 pounds by the summer. Working from home has been a WINNING gift and a struggle.

Like most, the ease WORDS of slipping into comfortable routines and working on my own schedule is a gift, especially managing work and a family.

My hours, my time.

However, the other Michael Norton thing that became too easy was finding a little snack between meals, or even an extra treat at night.

Hence the 25 pounds I now need to lose. When I read your article this week about ‘The Power of Accountability,’ and the idea of having accountability partners for different aspects of your life, I thought what a great idea. And then it hit me like a box of hidden Girl Scout cookies falling on my

A publication of

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head. Before I go in search of any accountability partner, I need to start by looking in the mirror. I need to hold myself accountable before I ask anyone else to hold me accountable, because Mr. Norton, accountability by any other name is still accountability. Thank you, and I will email you again as I shed these pandemic pounds.” - Rebecca Each week as I read and respond to the emails from our community, I find myself feeling that all of you wind up motivating and inspiring me with your stories of personal achievement. And thank you Rebecca for the inspiration for this column.

A few of the other emails I received contained this question, “What should I do if I do not have any accountability partners?” This was not the first time I heard this type of question about accountability and the potential lack of an accountability partner, let alone partners.

Another reader shared that, “Accountability is a very personal thing, and I am accountable and responsible for myself and my ac-

tions. Thank you!” Yes, exclamation point included and heard.

Although the context of that email was a bit negative, I found myself agreeing with the message.

Accountability is very personal.

And just like Rebecca figured out, it starts with each one of us. We are the ones who will walk through the kitchen alone with temptation everywhere, walk past the treadmill in the bedroom and hang our clothes on it instead of getting in a walk or run, or possibly turn on the television instead of sitting down to write the book we have been putting off.

As a salesperson sitting at our desk, do we find ourselves looking at our lead list instead of making the calls that we know we need to make?

When we choose to do anything else instead of what we need to do or get after what we desire most in life, we are the only ones who will see our reflection in the mirror when we brush our teeth, comb our hair, or shave. And we will know in those moments of personal accountability, what it is that we can and will do better the next time.

Here is a tip that I received many

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years ago, and I am sure you have all heard it as well: Inspect what we expect. Many times, we take this as a great leadership or management prompt. Or we use it in our own family as we raise our children inspecting their homework, practicing of a sport, music, or other activity they are passionate about. Yet sometimes we just forget about ourselves.

When was the last time that we set an expectation and then inspected what we expected from ourselves?

That is what we are talking about here, isn’t it, accountability?

How about you? Are you setting expectations for yourself and then inspecting what you expect? Is it a part of your personal accountability plan? I would love to hear your story at mnorton@tramazing.com, and when we realize that accountability by any other name is still accountability, it really will be a better than good week.

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 11, 2021

Airport provides grant to Tuskegee Airmen chapter Money to support a path to flight-industry careers for young people in need

ABOUT CENTENNIAL AIRPORT

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The Colorado chapter of a nonprofit that works to keep alive the history of the Tuskegee Airmen received a check from a local airport, a move expected to help “enable young people to pursue their dreams,” the chapter’s president said.

One of the major objectives of the nonprofit is to “encourage young people and let them know you can be excellent as well,” said Mark Dickerson, president of the Colorado chapter of Tuskegee Airmen Inc. The chapter honors the accomplishments and history of the Tuskegee Airmen, Black servicemen of the U.S. Army Air Corps — a precursor to the U.S. Air Force — who trained at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama during World War II. They constituted the first African American flying unit in the U.S. military.

The chapter — named for Hubert L. “Hooks” Jones in order to commemorate the Denver aviator who died in 1975 — spreads the history of African Americans who participated in air crew, ground crew and operations support training in the Army Air Corps during World War II, according to the chapter’s website.

Members of the chapter met with Robert Olislagers, director of Centennial Airport, on Jan. 29 at the

GROUP FROM PAGE 1

who is concerned about the right to worship, and a group of people who gathered out of frustration and concern for what’s going on in the world right now. We will always be available to any community members who invite us for open dialogue.”

Richardson assured attendees that Elbert County has tried to protect personal freedoms during the pandemic, and has worked hard to ensure the safety of residents in the county.

Sheriff Norton said he was also invited to the meeting to answer questions.

“Basically they asked if I was going to enforce the mask mandate, and I said no,” said Norton. “I haven’t enforced it yet and I’m not going to start now.”

Attendees heard from Laurie Clark, a trustee for the town of Monument, then saw videos about the COVID-19 vaccine and its perceived dangers. The group went on to ask Richardson and Norton questions about how they would handle hypothetical scenarios that might occur in the future. They cited the story about Denmark killing millions of mink in response to a coronavirus outbreak, and questioned what

A model of a “Red Tail” P-51 Mustang signed by some of the Tuskegee Airmen sits on PHOTO BY ELLIS ARNOLD display Jan. 29 at Centennial Airport’s administration building.

Centennial Airport is a general aviation airport, which means it features flight training and medical evacuation, corporate charter, small cargo and recreational flights, among other uses — but commercial airline flights, like those on United or Southwest airlines, for example, are not part of the mix.

It opened May 12, 1968, as Arapahoe County Airport and is owned and operated by the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, a governmental body.

It is not located in the City of Centennial, which was formed long after the airport in 2001 — the airport changed its name to “Centennial” in 1984.

The airport sits at 7800 S. Peoria St., just south of Arapahoe Road and southeast of the Topgolf entertainment complex, near the middle of Centennial.

It is mostly in unincorporated Arapahoe County but extends south into Douglas County.

Based on Federal Aviation Administration data for fiscal year 2017, Centennial Airport ranked as the thirdbusiest general aviation airport in the nation, according to General Aviation News.

airport to receive a financial grant of $6,000.

The money will go toward the chapter’s Mile High Flight Program, an effort that has lasted nearly 25 years, according to Dickerson, a retired Air Force colonel. The program provides flight training through an independent company that operates at Centennial Airport.

“If they want to become a commercial pilot, military pilot, they SEE AIRMEN, P16

would happen if the state of Colorado, for some reason, ordered all of the cows to be killed.

Richardson answered good-naturedly with: “Have you ever called a brand inspector from the state and known them to come out the same day?”

Norton said the best and most effective way for community members to help protect their community is to join the sheriff ’s posse. Posse members help with tasks that don’t require law enforcement personnel, such as traffic control.

The group had originally considered taking legal action against Polis and the state of Colorado, but according to Witherbee, they have decided to take action within their community instead.

“We’ve created some community groups that will help us maintain an independent community, in the event that restrictions become so harsh that we might not be able to go to the grocery store or travel without an immunization card,” said Witherbee.

Richardson said members of the community are always encouraged to get involved with their community.

“Get involved with the posse. Start community watch groups,” said Richardson. “We will support in any way we can those that want to support our local businesses or groups taking care of each other.”

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10 Elbert County News

February 11, 2021F

TAKE OUT

RECALL FROM PAGE 2

Elementary age students began the second semester in full in-person learning while middle and high schools are conducting full remote learning. On Feb. 2, directors signed off on a plan to return secondary students to some in-person learning with a “Hybrid 2.0” model starting Feb. 8.

Superintendent’s plan overruled

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The district plan had been to return secondary students to hybrid learning by Jan. 25, but board directors broke with that recommendation from interim Superintendent Corey Wise on Jan. 19, delaying the switch as the district received pushback from teachers and some students who preferred remote learning to hybrid.

Ormond said the search for a new superintendent is also a top concern for the Road2Recall group and he wants a new board to oversee the selection process.

The group hopes to recall and replace the four members of the board to gain a majority and then fill the remaining seats with candidates it supports during the November 2021 elections, he said.

Terms for directors CiancioSchor, Anthony Graziano, Krista Holtzmann and Kevin Leung all expire in November. The remaining board directors’ terms expire in 2023.

Roughly 60 people had expressed interest in serving as a candidate to replace the four directors, Ormond said.

If recall proponents successfully gather enough valid signatures and the incumbent does not resign, a special election would be scheduled to both recall the elected official and elect their successor at the same time.

An elected official is recalled if a majority of voters support removing them from office.

Ormond said he has already selected three people and is close to selecting a fourth candidate whom he would endorse to replace the current directors. He declined to name those individuals before candidates can formally register with the state.

Ormond said people from a variety of backgrounds have shown interest.

“Political party isn’t even a consideration. I haven’t even looked at that,” he said.

Several public speakers during the Feb. 2 board meeting voiced support for the recall effort as they urged directors to reopen secondary schools, if not to 100% in-person learning, than to hybrid learning.

Students’ mental health, socialization and academic performance is all suffering without in-person instruction, said parents, students and at least one educator.

Other community members have voiced support for board directors at recent board meetings and cautioned against reopening schools.

Student activist and Legend High School senior Ethan Reed was one of several students to speak at the latest board meeting, urging directors against launching hybrid learning.

Reed has told Colorado Community Media that among his concerns

are the emergence of new mutations in the virus that are more transmissible. He proposed keeping secondary schools in remote education until teachers can be widely vaccinated.

On Jan. 22, Reed submitted a letter to board directors undersigned by more than 120 other students, parents and educators in the district urging directors against a return to hybrid or in-person learning.

Kallie Leyba, president of the Douglas County Federation, the teachers’ union, has also expressed concern about a premature return to in-person learning, along with her opposition to a recall effort of board directors.

As talk of recalls brewed in January, Leyba stressed the district is facing myriad opinions about how to conduct school during COVID. Wise “clearly communicated” in January board meetings that the district switched to full remote learning last semester because of operational pressures on the system, she said, and not because district leadership felt it was better than inperson learning.

“It’s unfortunate that there is a vocal minority that continues to speak at board meetings about opening our schools with 100% attendance without regard to the realities that we were facing operationally,” she said.

Leyba said she is empathetic toward board directors and hopes the community will be as well.

“I would just really urge our community to consider the facts behind why the decisions that are being made are being made,” she said. “I feel for (directors).”

- E DUC AT IONA L A DV E RT I S E M E N T -

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It’s a well-known fact that for many older Americans, the home is their single biggest asset. And with interest rates near all-time lows while home values are still high, this combination creates the perfect dynamic for getting the most out of your built-up equity.

But many aren’t taking advantage of this unprecedented period. According to new statistics, senior homeowners in the U.S. are now sitting on more than 7.7 trillion dollars* of unused home equity. It’s not surprising that more than a million homeowners have already used a government-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) loan to turn their home equity into extra cash for retirement.

It’s a fact, with a government-insured HECM loan, no monthly mortgage payments are required; however, the borrowers are still responsible for paying for the maintenance of their home, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and, if required, their HOA fees.

Today, HECM loans are simply an effective way for homeowners 62 and older to get the extra cash they need to enjoy retirement. The cash from a HECM loan can be used for almost any purpose. Other common uses include making home improvements, paying off medical bills, or helping other family members. Some people simply need the extra cash for everyday expenses while others are now using it as a safety net for financial emergencies.

AAG Area Sales Manager, Jarred Talmadge, says, “As your local AAG team, our goal is to provide you with information and never pressure you.

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Elbert County News 11

1February 11, 2021

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12 Elbert County News

February 11, 2021F

LOCAL

LIFE

FOR THE LOVE OF MONSTERS

Immersive artainment experience offered at Denver Pavilions

Many of the creatures on display at Distortions Monster World are well-known from movies, television or music, such as USDI from Star Trek Continues.

BY CHRISTY STEADMAN CSTEADMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

T

he world-renowned monster-makers at Greeley’s own Distortions Unlimited and the award-winning production team at Lovelandbased Blazen Illuminations have teamed up to offer Denver an out-of-this world adventure filled with spooky and supernatural creatures.

Distortions Monster World, an immersive artainment experience, offers guests an opportunity to explore life-sized creatures – many recognizable from television and film – and interactive, technology-forward installations in a 19,000-square-foot space in

A group of friends gather for a photo in front of a display at Distortions Monster World. Masks must be worn while exploring the PHOTOS BY CHRISTY STEADMAN 19,000-square-foot space, but guests are permitted to remove them for photos.

the Denver Pavilions on the 16th Street Mall.

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The monsters featured in the various scenes of the exhibit are the creations of Distortions Unlimited owners Ed Edmunds and Marsha Taub-Edmunds, their team and the many artists and sculptors they work with. The monsters in each scene are accompanied by special effects, props, theatrical lighting and sound design by Blazen Illuminations.

“Distortions Monster World is a celebration of a lifetime of making monsters and a way to share our love for all things monster,” Edmunds said in a news release.

“I have never seen monsters as ugly, and certainly haven’t associated them with just one time of the year. My hope is that visitors will walk away appreciating the art and beauty behind these creatures, and realize there is more to monsters than meets the eye.”

IF YOU GO Distortions Monster World is located at 500 16th Street Mall on the first floor in Suite #180.

Typical hours of operation are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Tickets must be purchased online in advance, and are available up to one hour before your desired time slot. Each time slot lasts one hour.

Tickets cost $25 per person for guests age 12 and older, $18 for youths age 6-11, and children age 5 and younger are free.

Masks must be worn while exploring the exhibit, but may be removed briefly for taking a picture.

The exhibit is deep cleaned before opening and at the end of the day.

To purchase tickets or learn more about the Distortions Monster World exhibit, visit https://distortionsmonsterworld.com.

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Elbert County News 13

1February 11, 2021

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

Landen Shay attends Chaparral High School.

COURTESY PHOTO

Hockey team ready to fight for every inch

BY JIM BENTON JBENTON@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Chaparral hockey coach Ryan Finnefrock knows the value of having a good team captain.

He was a captain when he played for Ralston Valley over 10 years ago and now he has three captains on his Chap team, which is a squad composed of players from Chaparral, Legend and Ponderosa high schools.

“Leadership is the engine for the culture of our program,” said Finnefrock. “It makes us go. Good leaders will help control the engine at the right times and make it go at the right times. We cannot reach our goals without great leadership.”

This season, seniors Jackson Mundell, John Connolly and Landen

Shay are the three Wolverine captains on a team ranked fourth in the CHSAANow.com 5A hockey rankings.

“They have been huge,” Finnefrock said about the captains.

“They have had different roles for sure. This year it is going to be a bigger role for them in a leadership position. All three were key contributors for us last year. This year it is definitely a different role in terms of taking on the leadership.

“It is always a pleasure as a coach when your best players are also your best human beings. That is definitely these guys. These are three quality individuals who just happen to play hockey.”

Mundell attends Chaparral and stepped right in to his role as a captain.

“I was actually named captain in September for the fall season so I’ve had a couple months to get used to it,” he said. “I wasn’t worried about it at all. I’ve played with most of the SEE HOCKEY, P15

Answers

Solution © 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.

Chaparral squad has players from three Parker schools

THANKS for

PLAYING!

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February 11, 2021F

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Elbert County News 15

1February 11, 2021

HOCKEY FROM PAGE 13

players for years now. I know what they are about and they know what I am about. I know their strengths and weaknesses and I know about their personalities, so I am able to be comfortable around them.”

Connolly is a Legend student who was Chap’s leading scorer last season as a center but he has been moved to defense this year.

“I don’t think it was difficult for me to take the leadership role,” explained Connolly. “Even before that I had the letter (C) on my chest, I was pretty vocal with the guys. I was a little bit of a leader before and this bigger role is nice but it hasn’t been a challenge for me.

“I think there are two kinds of captains you can have. The one that just goes out and plays and you just watch him and he leads by example. I think I am more vocal and I can lead by example but definitely you need the personality to be a leader.”

Shay, who goes to Chaparral, is the team’s first four-year letterman and he is also currently playing for the Littleton Hockey Association’s U18 AA team.

“I am proud to be a captain and being here for four years it is something I feel I’ve grown into and I’ve learned a lot from past cap-

John Connolly attends Legend High School.

tains,” said Shay. “I feel like I am prepared for it.”

Chaparral has made it to the Frozen Four the past three years and hopes to go further in this season that has been shortened by the COVID pandemic.

“If we all work together and work towards a common goal, which is getting into the Frozen Four and winning the state championship, I think that will do it,” said Mundell.

Connolly pointed out the small things that could help

COURTESY PHOTOS

the Wolverines this season.

“It’s going to be a lot of the little things, winning those little puck battles and each play by an inch because once you get down to the Final Four teams, they are all good,” he explained. “You have to do the little things better than the other team to win.”

Shay feels the team will need to battle.

“We have a really good group of guys and we all kind of mix well together even being from three dif-

Jackson Mundell attends Chaparral High School.

ferent schools,” said Shay. “I definitely feel unity is going to play a big part with our team.

“We have the talent and skill to go all the way but we have to trust we are going to build from each other. We have to battle through good days and bad days. I expect Chaparral to return to the Frozen Four this year.”

This year might be tougher to reach the Final Four since there will only be a four-team state tournament bracket. Each of the three

5A leagues will have one automatic qualifier and the fourth team will be an atlarge pick.

Chaparral is in the South League with defending state champion Valor Christian along with Castle View, Doherty, Lewis Palmer, Mountain Vista and Pine Creek.

“We want to make a step forward,” said Finnefrock.

“We’re tired of just making the Frozen Four. We want to have a chance to compete for the state title.”

www.ColoradoCommunityMedia.com/Notices

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notices call Sheree 303.566.4088 Legals City and County 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

legals@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Misc. Private Legals

Public Notice

Public Notice

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR Breglio PUD Amendment Administrative Change CASE NUMBER PA-20-0079

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TENNESSEE No. 77504

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE 60 County Road 166, Parker, CO 80138 PROPERTY SHALL BE CONSIDERED FOR A PUD Amendment Administrative Change, PURSUANT TO ELBERT COUNTY REGULATIONS.

STATE OF TENNESSEE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN’S SERVICES, Petitioner, vs.

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

THE HEARING IS TO BE HELD BEFORE THE PLANNING COMMISSION ON THE 24th DAY OF February 2021, IN THE ELBERT COUNTY BUILDING, COMMISSIONERS’ BOARD ROOM, 215 COMANCHE STREET, KIOWA, COLORADO, AT 1:00 A.M./P.M., OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS POSSIBLE.

IN THE MATTER OF: Aliyah Floyd : D.O.B 1/4/2006 CHILD UNDER EIGHTEEN (18) YEARS OF AGE

CONTACT ELBERT COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES FOR MORE INFORMATION: 303-621-3185

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

Legal Description: Section: 10 Township: 7 Range: 65Subdivision: BREGLIO PUD DEVELOPMENT, PAR IN NW4NW4: 10 7 65 N 829.71' X 525' Legal Notice No. 24556 First Publication: February 11, 2021 Last Publication: February 11, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

NOTICE TO: RESPONDENT, REBECCA FLOYD

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 the Rutherford County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.

or the claims may be forever barred.

Entered the 11th day of January, 2021.

Legal Notice No. 24549 First Publication: January 28, 2021 Last Publication: February 11, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

/s/ Darrell Scarlett HONORABLE Judge Darrell Scarlett 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 Legal Notice No. 24554 First Publication: February 4, 2021 Last Publication: February 25, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

Carolyn M. Schaffer Attorney to the Personal Representative 5460 South Quebec St. #310 Greenwood Village, CO 80111

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

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

Notice to Creditors 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 28, 2021,

Legal Notice No. 24551 First Publication: February 4, 2021 Last Publication: February 18, 2021 Publisher: The Elbert County News

###

Elbert County Legals 2.11.21 * 1

16 Elbert County News

February 11, 2021

Crow tries again on bid to close gun loophole Measure would bar federally licensed dealers from sales like one that rocked Colorado

BY MICHAEL KARLIK THE DENVER GAZETTE

U.S. Rep. Jason Crow has reintroduced legislation to close the federal firearms loophole exploited by the out-of-state woman who prompted school closures in spring 2019 throughout Colorado after law enforcement considered her “exCrow tremely dangerous.”

The Closing the Loophole on Interstate Firearm Sales Act, which Crow has termed the Colorado Loophole Act, would prohibit a federally licensed firearms dealer from transferring a long gun to a recipient who does not live — or whom the seller believes does not live — in the state where the business is located.

“Almost two years ago, children and families across our state were terrorized by the threat of yet another mass shooting, a tragedy that is all too familiar in Colorado,” said Crow,

a Democrat from Aurora. “This threat could have been prevented by treating shotguns and rifles the same way we treat handguns.”

In that instance, an 18-year-old woman who was reportedly obsessed with the 1999 Columbine High School mass murder was deemed a credible threat, according to law enforcement, based on her comments and behavior. Around the time of the 20th anniversary of the tragedy, she flew to Colorado and immediately purchased a shotgun.

While her home state of Florida restricted such purchases to persons age 21 and older, Colorado had no similar bar. Law enforcement found her dead of an apparent suicide near Mount Evans after several school districts took the extraordinary step of closing amid the threat.

Crow first introduced the proposal in the previous Congress. His office noted that out-of-state travelers can still purchase long guns and shotguns under the bill, but the weapons must first be shipped to an arms dealer in the purchaser’s state for a background check.

Crow represents the 6th Congressional District, which includes Littleton, Centennial, Highlands Ranch, Aurora and part of Adams County, among other areas.

For more stories like this, subscribe at denvergazette.com

AIRMEN FROM PAGE 9

have that option,” John Lamb, a volunteer fundraiser for the chapter, said of the youths who participate in the flight program. Once they get their license, the choice is theirs, Lamb added.

The program opens up the world of aviation for kids as young as 14 — generally, high-schoolers — by taking them to places such as the University of Colorado, Metropolitan State University of Denver, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and aerospace and scientific businesses in the Denver Tech Center area, Lamb said.

Centennial Airport’s donation to the Tuskegee Airmen chapter isn’t the first grant the airport has given the group, Lamb said.

The entities have had “an ongoing relationship” because of the chapter’s Mile High Flight Program operations at the airport.

Volunteers at the chapter work with high school counselors around the Front Range to nudge kids toward applying for scholarships from the chapter, Lamb said.

Among the volunteers are Centennial City Councilmember Candace Moon and her husband, Vorry Moon, who also serves as chair of the chapter’s board of directors.

As a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, or ROTC, cadet, two Documented Original Tuskegee Airmen were professors of aerospace science, Vorry Moon said of his

Robert Olislagers, director of Centennial Airport, left, speaks with Mark Dickerson, president of the Colorado chapter of Tuskegee Airmen Inc., after handing Dickerson a check to aid the chapter’s educational programs for PHOTO BY ELLIS ARNOLD youths.

time in college. They encouraged him to join a chapter, Moon said.

Anyone who served at Tuskegee Army Air Field or in any of the programs stemming from what’s known as the “Tuskegee Experience” from 1941-49 is considered to be a Documented Original Tuskegee Airman, according to Tuskegee University. They are colloquially called DOTAs. For Candace Moon, Centennial Airport’s grant “shows what the community can do to uplift its youth,” she said.

“They are able to get opportunities that only come once in a lifetime,” Candace Moon said. “We’ve seen in the Mile High Flight Program how far children can go.”

Some of the aviators who went through the program in their youth are mentors for young people participating in it now, Dickerson said.

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