Elbert County News Press 0129

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January 29, 2015 VOLU M E 1 1 9 | I S S UE 52 | 7 5 ¢

ElbertCountyNews.net E L B E R T C O U N T Y, C O L O R A D O

A publication of

Meetings policy may be modified

by BOCC Commissioners look at formalizing policies following dispute

By Rick Gustafson

Special to Colorado Community Media

Rodney Miller gets a hug from his sister as he and four other men became the first graduates from the 18th Judicial District’s Veterans Treatment Court. The program is designed to help veterans in the criminal justice system get their lives back on track. Photos by Tom Munds

Veterans back on track after detour Event marks first graduation from intensive court program

By Tom Munds

tmunds@coloradocommunitymedia.com

POSTAL ADDRESS

ELBERT COUNTY NEWS (USPS 171-100)

OFFICE: 9137 S. Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210 Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 PHONE: 303-566-4100 A legal newspaper of general circulation in Elizabeth, Colorado, the Elbert County News is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ELIZABETH, COLORADO and additional mailing offices.

Drop and do 20 push-ups.

The five graduates from the Veterans Treatment Court agreed their program should end like it began.

So veterans, police officers, prosecutors, public defenders, probation officers and others involved in the program dropped to the floor and counted the push-ups as they took part in the activity that culminated the Jan. 16 graduation ceremonies.

Five military veterans whose lives had been on slippery slopes celebrated gaining solid footing and the opportunity for a bright future that completion of the program provided.

“I am so grateful for this program because, today, I feel like my life is back where it should have been when I got out of the service,” graduate Kevin Slack said after the ceremonies. “I messed things up when I messed with drugs and alcohol.

This program has reversed all the negatives, and my life is back where it should be.”

He said jail time was painful, but it was the birth of a desire to get his life back on track.

“I thank all the veterans and the court personnel who encouraged me to stick with the program and to complete treatment,” he said. “I feel I am ready to get to the next level where I am 100 Vets continues on Page 7

Dan Mitchell holds up the certificate he was presented Jan. 16 as he and four other men became the first greaduates from the 18th Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court. The program is designed to help veterans who got in trouble with the law get a fresh start in life.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? According to an 18th Judicial District news release, “Eligible military veterans with trauma spectrum disorders and/or substance abuse issues may be moved to the Veterans Treatment Court based on decisions made by a team including personnel from the 18th Judicial District courts and Probation Department, prosecutors, public defenders, local law enforcement, treatment professionals and others.”

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Frank Alston (center), a Douglas County Sheriff ’s deputy, leads and counts out the push-ups as part of the closing ceremonies marking the first five graduates from the Veterans Treatment Court. The officer, veterans, prosecutors, probation officers and the judge all did the push-ups.

The Elbert County Board of County Commissioners is drafting a resolution to formalize its meetings policy and notice procedures. During the regularly scheduled work session on Jan. 21, the three members of the BOCC discussed provisions for a proposed policy designed to standardize the meetings-notification process.

The action comes on the heels of a string of allegations during the past two months by planning commission member Rick Brown and some members of the public who have asserted that the BOCC was holding meetings without proper public notice, and was therefore in violation of Colorado Sunshine statues.

The issue came to a head when Commissioner Larry Ross, District 3, chose not attend the meeting scheduled for Monday morning, Jan. 5 that included a planned update from a county staff member regarding the progress of the proposed bylaws under development by the planning commission. Ross felt the meeting was not properly noticed.

County Attorney Wade Gateley said that the Sunshine statue allows for the day-today oversight of property and employees, and the purpose of the Monday morning meetings is to discuss those topics as well as address issues, such as snowstorms, that come up over the weekend.

“For the weekly and as-needed meetings, the statute exempts those meetings from any notice requirements,” Gateley said. “It exempts those meetings from any agenda requirements. It exempts those meetings from any minutes requirements.”

Gateley went on to say that, when two elected officials meet it constitutes a public meeting, and the public is welcome to observe.

“The important distinction here is that for work sessions and employee supervision, no adoption of any formal policy or no formal decision can take place,” Gateley said. “In order to make sure we go the extra mile, to make sure we are trying to let the public know, we will post notices of work sessions.”

The Monday-morning meetings, often referred to as study sessions or work sessions by the BOCC and county staff, have been a long-standing practice. The meetings routinely take place in the BOCC’s meeting room at 9 a.m. on Monday mornings and following BOCC meetings. The sessions are open to the public.

A general notice of the sessions had been posted on a bulletin board in the County Administration Building (the old courthouse). However, at some point before or immediately after the Jan. 5 meeting, the notice disappeared. It is unknown whether the notice fell off the board or was removed. The BOCC’s proposed meetings policy now includes a provision for a locked bulletin board to replace the old one.

The proposed policy is also expected to designate the new bulletin board, inside the main entrance to the County Administration Building, as the official place of posting for meetings and agendas. The proposed meetings policy also identifies the county’s website as an alternate site for BOCC continues on Page 7

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2 Elbert County News

January 29, 2015

Books stand out as gems of year As I reflect back on a year of reading, I am amazed by the quality of literature produced last year. It is difficult sometimes to sift through the quantity to find those gems, so I am grateful that I came across several in my reading journey.

Here are my top five favorite books published in 2014: “The Word Exchange” by Alena Graedon I read this book as a cautionary tale: Synchronic develops an online “word exchange” where people can look up any word they need to, for a nominal fee. The printed word is all but dead.

Doug Samuel Johnson works for one of the last holdouts, the North American Dictionary of the English Language (NADEL), which is less than one week away from the publication of its third, and final, print edition. Until he disappears. Daughter Anana “Alice” Johnson is left behind to try to sort out the pieces of her father’s life and disappearance. Leaving her meme behind and enlisting the help of the Diachronic Society, she sets out to find her father, and maybe, just maybe,

Healey column on hiatus

help stop the spread of this dangerous word flu that threatens to eradicate language as we know it.

“All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr I loved this book so much that when I finished I immediately wanted to go back to page one and start again. Short chapters interweave the stories of Marie Laure, a French girl who goes blind at the age of 6, and Werner, a German orphan with a proclivity for fixing radios. Both are 15-16 at the beginning of World War II. Doerr made me fall in love with both of them!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Calendar submissions must

be received by noon Wednesday for publication the following week. Send listings to calendar@ coloradocommunitymedia.com. No attachments, please. Listings are free and run on a spaceavailable basis.

Events

CALL FOR Art Submissions

Ann Macari Healey’s column is on hiatus. It will return in the spring. She encourages readers to send column ideas to ahealey@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

SUBMISSIONS FOR art to be displayed from Monday, Feb. 23, through mid-May, at the Elizabeth Town Hall, 151 S. Banner St., are due by Sunday, Feb. 1. Email framed 2D art to Rachel Hodgson at rhodgson@ci.elizabeth. co.us. Include photo, title, and artist name with your submission.

STUDENTS, TEACHERS Honor

Popular Composer

DOUGLAS-ELBERT MUSIC Teachers Associa-

“Station Eleven” by Emily St. John Mandel The Georgian Flu reaches America via a person on an airplane, it spreads rapidly, and the world’s population is quickly diminished to less than 1 percent.

Mandel deftly weaves history and present time of several key players, including the impact of actor Arthur Leander, who dies on stage the day before the end, and other people in the room when he died — 8-yearold Kirsten, and EMT-in-training Jeevan, who leaps on stage to try to save him — to other people in his life, namely, his best friend and his ex-wives.

I do enjoy a good apocalyptic story, and this one did not disappoint!

“Some Luck” by Jane Smiley This book is the beginning of a sweeping trilogy, spanning 100 years of the Langdon family. Chapter one starts with the birth of Frankie on the family farm in Iowa in 1920.

Each subsequent chapter covers one year, always bringing in subtle references to what is happening in America and in the world.

“Leaving Time” by Jodi Picoult

I got so absorbed in this book that I don’t think I moved for over two hours as I kept turning pages to finish it. Told from the perspectives of Alice, the mom who disappeared 10 years ago; Jenna, her daughter who is 13 now; Virgil, the policeman originally assigned to the case; and Serenity, the psychic who helps Virgil and Jenna follow the clues.

Ten years ago, one woman was trampled to death by an elephant, and the other … Alice … is found unconscious and taken to the hospital, from which she escapes overnight, never to be seen again.

Kari May lives in Elizabeth and is the director of the Pines & Plains Libraries. She can be contacted through the library at director@ elbertcountylibrary.org. Pines & Plains Libraries is an independent taxing entity created by a vote of the citizens in 2000 and serves all residents of Elbert County. The district is funded primarily through a mill levy assessed on properties. Visit pplibraries.org for more information about the variety of information and resources available through your libraries.

THINGS TO DO tion students and teachers will perform music

by John Williams at a free concert from 1-3 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Parker Library, 10851 Crossroads Drive, Parker. Concert is in honor of Williams’83rd birthday. Williams has written some of the most popular film scores in history, including Jaws, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, Star Wars, Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, Harry Potter, Lincoln and many more. DEMTA is a professional organization of independent and school music teachers who work in Parker, Castle Rock, Elizabeth, Centennial, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, and Aurora. DEMTA offers free community performances throughout the year. See www. demta.org.

Ave., Parker. For tickets, go to www.ParkerArts.org.

WIZARD OF Oz

Lincoln

A MUSICAL extravaganza retelling the story of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion and Toto hits the stage through Sunday, Feb. 8, at the PACE Center, 20000 Pikes Peak

PARKER AREA Historical Society presents a Tribute to Washington and Lincoln at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 10, at Ruth Memorial Chapel, 19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker. Program

SHROVE TUESDAY Pancake

Supper

BOY SCOUTS Troop 16 presents the Shrove Tuesday all-you-can-eat pancake supper from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at Parker United Methodist Church, 11805 Pine Drive, Parker. The Scouts will serve pancakes (gluten-free available), sausage and hash browns. Cost is $5. Tickets can be purchased from any Scout, at the church on Sunday, Feb. 8, and Sunday, Feb. 15, or at the door. Proceeds benefit the activities of Troop 16.

TRIBUTE TO Washington,

starts at 7 p.m. and is led by Ben Martin, patriot, teacher and orator. Martin is knowledgeable and passionate about the forming of the United States and all the patriots who made it possible.

Everyone is welcome.

FREE LEGAL Clinic A FREE legal clinic for parties who have no attorney is open from 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the Elizabeth Library, 651 W. Beverly St., Elizabeth. Volunteer attorneys will answer questions, help fill out forms and explain processes and procedures for all areas of civil litigation, including family law, property law, probate law, collections, appeals, landlord-tenant law, small claims, veterans issues and civil protection orders. Walkins are welcome. Help offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Clinics are offered the second Tuesday of each month; future clinics are offered March 10, April 14, May 12, June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8.

“I chose UCCS for the combination of academics and student life. The Engineering program is one the best in the country and you can’t beat the location with views of Pikes Peak from every building. The University reaches out to every student by holding fun events for all different interests, so it’s easy to make friends. As soon as I stepped onto campus I was completely immersed in the community and felt right at home.”

— Kaleen, Junior, Electrical Engineering

Reach higher.

Choose UCCS. Learn more at uccs.edu or call 719.255.8227

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Elbert County News 3

January 29, 2015

r No resolution yet on beef between bodies

on’t Differences between county t er- commissioners, planning commissioners ared may not be resolved for a while 13 gned

By Rick Gustafson o

Special to Colorado Community Media

led The clash stemming from proposed bylaws that developed Al- between the Elbert County Board of County Commissioners the and the county’s planning commission will continue for at ght, least another month, maybe two.

At the direction of the BOCC, the planning commission c- began drafting bylaws based on an original draft prepared by n be County Attorney Wade Gateley in the fall of 2014. Since then the two bodies have been at odds over language in the original @ brar- draft regarding final approval of the commission’s bylaws by the BOCC. d In the latest draft, the planning commission removed any language pertaining to BOCC approval of the bylaws along is ssed with all references to regulations. The revised draft simply points to Elbert County zoning regulations and state statutes re tion when referencing regulatory issues. The change did not, howaries.ever, resolve the disagreement between the BOCC and the planning commission; it just served to relocate it.

In addition to drafting its bylaws, the planning commission is now addressing changes to county zoning regulations that directly influence the commission. A draft of the proposed changes was forwarded to the members of the commission on Jan. 14 ahead of their regularly scheduled meeting on Jan. 20.

As a result, the planning commission temporarily set aside atriot, le creation of its bylaws and took up the proposed zoning regulanited tions, concluding that the final draft of the bylaws would ulsible. timately be contingent on the changes to zoning regulations approved by the BOCC, a process that could take a couple of months.

The proposed zoning laws contain the provision requiring o at- the BOCC’s approval of the planning commission’s bylaws, as Feb. well as several other issues, such as term limits for commission y St., members, time limits for processing applications, and perhaps ques- the most contentious issue, a change to the number of memses and bers on the planning commission. cluding The planning commission is staffed by volunteers and ctions, serves in an advisory capacity to the BOCC regarding zoning and applications for development. In theory, each of the three Walk- county commissioners appoints one member to the nineme, member planning commission for a three-year term. Sitting ond members may request reappointment at the end of their term. ffered However, there are currently three vacant seats on the planAug. ning commission, and two additional terms expired at the beginning of this year, leaving four members with time remaining on their appointments, though traditionally members with expired terms have continued to serve until reappointed or a

Elbert County planning commissioners meet Jan. 20. Courtesy photo new appointee takes their place.

In addition to identifying the prerequisites for appointments to the commission, the proposed zoning law reduces the number of seats on the commission from nine voting members to five. The law would also give the BOCC the option to appoint up to two associate (nonvoting) members who may be activated in order to achieve a quorum or if a member resigns. Once activated, the associate member would be eligible to vote on issues before the commission.

The BOCC’s reasoning centers on the theory that a smaller planning commission would be more efficient and be able to bring recommendations to the BOCC faster than a larger one.

In their discussions, the commission proposed that the number serving on the panel should remain at nine, and each commissioner would be limited in their appointments to two applicants from their own district and one “at large” from anywhere in the county.

With the issue undecided and county appointments scheduled for Jan. 28, the BOCC may choose to postpone making any new appointments to the commission and delay formalizing reappoints for existing members.

“I think it’s a little awkward to say the least, if not irresponsible, to pursue the status quo not knowing what the ultimate decision will be,” Commissioner Robert Rowland, District 1, said at a BOCC study session Jan. 21. “I would recommend that we ask the two persons expiring in January to continue to serve until a final decision is made.”

Decision regarding appointments will be made at the regularly scheduled BOCC meeting on Jan. 28.

Planning commission members also took issue with the law’s requirement to complete applications within a set period. The requirement set forth in the draft establishes a 30-day limit for processing applications with a provision for one 30day extension. Additional extensions would be at the discretion of the BOCC. Discussions at the meeting centered on the perception that the BOCC did not fully appreciate the details involved in approving applications and establishing such narrow time constraints was impractical, especially as it pertains to larger projects such as new subdivisions.

Historically the BOCC has endorsed the recommendations from the planning commission with one notable exception. In June 2013, the BOCC voted to reject the planning commission’s recommendations regarding oil and gas regulations by a 2-1 vote, with Commissioners Rowland and Kurt Schlegel voting against and Commissioner Larry Ross voting yes.

Members from both bodies have stressed the importance of a good working relationship between the planning commission and the BOCC, but these and other fundamental differences have developed over how the county will proceed with the regulations and practices, which will likely have a lasting influence on the local economy and the expected growth in the county.

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4 Elbert County News

January 29, 2015

Measure tackles TABOR-rebate plan Institute breaks down details of refund proposal

By Amy Woodward

awoodward @coloradocommunitymedia.com State Senate President Bill Cadman, RColorado Springs, filed a bill that would mend some of the tax-refunding mechanisms outlined in the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights by refunding state tax money that is in excess of TABOR limits to the middle class.

The important piece of legislation warrants further explanation, as adjustments to TABOR can often be complex.

The Colorado Fiscal Institute, which provides analysis on fiscal and economic issues, assisted Colorado Community Media in analyzing Cadman’s bill, Senate Bill 1.

According to the institute, the bill would repeal the current six-tier sales tax refund and implement a three-tier state sales tax refund

system in which greater percentages in rebates would be given to individuals with an adjusted gross income (AGI) between $36,000 and $117,000.

The Department of Revenue is charged with determining a “single percentage” for TABOR refunds that will cause the total amount of refunds to equal the amount of excess state revenue, factoring in the number of taxpayers within a tiered refund structure.

The bill would require annual calculations of the adjusted gross income amounts based on the consumer price index.

Under the bill’s proposed three tiers, the new mechanism imposed by SB1 has these impacts: Tier 1) AGI of $36,000 or less, the rebate will equal to $36,000 times the single percentage.

Tier 2) AGI between $36,000 to $117,000 means the rebate amount would be the AGI times the single percentage.

Tier 3) AGI in excess of $117,000, the rebate amount would be $117,000 times the single percentage.

Under SB1, the earned income tax credit or

EITC refund mechanism, which is more complex than the proposed change to the six-tier sales tax refund, would remain unchanged.

SB1 also includes provisions that prohibits individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors and felonies from receiving the TABOR sales tax rebate, and requires the Department of Revenue to direct TABOR rebates to pay for court ordered restitution or court ordered child support for taxpayers with outstanding balances.

“CFI still believes the best investment in the middle class is to restore funding for schools and colleges and to fix our crumbling roads,” said Carol Hedges, executive director of the Colorado Fiscal Institute. “But if voters said they wanted to keep the revenue above the cap, the new structure under Senate Bill 1 actually makes the rebate mechanism better.”

State Sen. Andy Kerr, D-Lakewood, serves on both the Senate education and finance committees.

He said he remains “vehemently neutral” on SB1 but warned of “politically expedient” legislation that only fixes current issues in-

stead of looking ahead to more pressing funding gaps where K-12 and higher education are starved of financial assistance due to state underfunding.

“Colorado is just in such a bad spot with our education funding, we have this negative factor in place that’s preventing three quarters of a million in funding,” Kerr said.

Last week, Republicans on the Senate Education Committee, voted against a bill sponsored by Kerr that would cap tuition increases at 6 percent for in-state undergraduates. Reasons for the party’s rejection stemmed from a concern in limiting funding options for colleges.

“I appreciate the direction of SB1,” Kerr said, but added that funding education also helps to sustain the middle class.

“How are we going to keep the doors of our schools open?” he said. “We have to look long term.”

Cadman did not respond by press time for this report.

House introduces repeals on guns laws Bills aim to reverse criminal background checks, large ammo cap

By Amy Woodward

awoodward @coloradocommunitymedia.com In the first batch of proposed bills for the legislative session, Republicans wasted little time introducing repeals on state gun laws.

Two separate measures were introduced in the state House, including House Bill 1050 and HB 1009.

HB 1050 proposes to repeal the state’s requirement for criminal background checks concerning private gun transfers from unlicensed gun dealers.

The bill banishes the requirement for the Colorado Bureau of Investigation to impose a

fee for the instant criminal background check, which is $10, although the fee may be adjusted in the future.

The bill is sponsored by Rep. Janak Joshi, R-Colorado Springs, and Report co-sponsored by newly elected Sen. Laura Woods, R-Arvada.

“We’re basically taxing the Second Amendment,” Woods said. “It doesn’t keep guns out of the hands of bad guys and you look at gunfree zones — Chicago, Paris — you’ll see that gun laws do not prevent bad people from getting guns because by definition bad people don’t care what the laws are and they get guns anyway.”

The state Legislature approved expanding

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background checks for gun purchases in 2013, along with the 15-round limit on ammunition magazines. Through HB 1009, Republicans are looking to reverse the ban on larger ammunition magazines.

Rep. Patrick Neville, R-Franktown, is helping to sponsor HB 1009 and said the original bill to ban large ammunition magazines is not enforceable.

The gun laws in general, including the required criminal background check, is more about gun control than public safety, he said.

“I don’t even think it’s really enforceable in the first place, and that’s usually one of the initial goals of the gun-control agenda is to have a registration so they can identify, and that’s what this is attempting to do over a period of years is create that universal registration,” Neville said. “Responsible gun ownership comes from the people, not the government.”

Both bills have been assigned to the State,

Veterans, and Military Affairs committee in the House.

“About 80 percent of the people in Colorado support the background checks,” said Max Tyler, D-Lakewood, who sits on State, Veterans and Military Affairs committee.

“This has definitely been a good tool for public safety,” he said, citing CBI’s 2014 data that reported 285 people were denied guns through private purchases due to criminal history.

Dave Hoover, Lakewood resident and member of Everytown for Gun Safety, a national organization that works to end gun violence, said the attempts to reverse the state’s gun laws are a “slap in the face.”

“It’s just an insult,” said Hoover, who lost his nephew in the Aurora movie theater shooting of July 2012. “These laws hold people accountable. And for our politicians not to understand — it astounds me that they don’t get it.”

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Elbert County News 5

January 29, 2015 PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Knee Arthritis Pain: One HUGE Mistake And Two “Smart Moves”

Doctor’s Simple Advice Gets Rave Reviews By Patients Lucky Enough To Give It A Try

By Matt Edgar America’s Health Writer

El Paso County - Have you been told that exercise will help your knee arthritis pain?

Well... has it helped? If it hasn’t, one local doctor has a very good reason why. Not only that - he says if you are trying to exercise with knee arthritis - you might be making a HUGE mistake.

Sounds crazy?

Yes it does. In fact, I thought it was a ridiculous thing to say. That is until I talked to some of his patients who gave him rave reviews.

Many said he completely changed their life.

When they first came to the office, their knee arthritis pain was so bad they could barely walk and were scheduled for total knee replacement surgery. In a relatively short period of time, they cancelled surgery and are enjoying their lives again.

Why is exercising a HUGE mistake and what does this doctor recommend that is helping so many knee arthritis sufferers who come to see them from all over the state?

His name is Dr. Swanson MD. Dr. Swanson is a Medical doctor and head of arthritis treatment at Osteo Relief Institute in Colorado Springs, CO. Double Edged Sword Dr. Swanson says that exer-

cising with knee arthritis is a double edged sword. It is true, your knee joints need motion to be healthy. And lack of motion can be very detrimental. Without motion joints become “sick.” And in theory exercising should help knee arthritis.

But here is the BIG problem: Knee arthritis is condition that dries up the lubricating fluids in your knee. It also changes the joint surface and creates bone spurs.

Because of these changes - exercising on an arthritic knee can cause more swelling, more pain and more arthritic changes.

Imagine driving your car without any oil. What happens? The engine parts scrape together and wear out.

You can’t simply drive your car more and make it better. And in many cases - you simply can’t just exercise your knee and make it better, either.

What’s the answer?

In a car it’s simple - put in more oil. And then make sure the oil level is correct and it is changed when necessary.

With your knee joints - it is a little more complicated.

The major lubricating fluid in your knee joint is called synovial fluid. Synovial fluid is the fluid that “dries up” when you suffer with arthritis.

Making Knee Arthritis Pain Worse: Research has discovered that people are suffering with arthritis much younger than expected. Making the right treatment choices now can possibly stop the progression and eliminate the pain.

But there is good news: Now doctors can inject one of the building blocks of synovial fluid directly into your knee joint.

This building block of synovial fluid is called hyaluronic acid.

And when hyaluronic acid is injected directly into the knee joint, many experts believe it helps lubricate the joint.

Some say it is like squirting oil on a rusty door hinge. This allowed the knee joint to glide more smoothly and often reduces or even eliminates pain.

And here is the most important part: Now that the joint is lubricated and can move with less or no pain - specific exercises can be a tremendous help.

That’s why the doctors (when patients qualify) treat knee arthritis patients with hyaluronic acid injections FIRST and then prescribe a very specific rehabilitation and exercise program specially developed to help knee arthritis pain.

This comprehensive knee arthritis pain program is called, “P.A.C.E.” and has been getting wonderful results.

So what is the HUGE mistake? If you suffer with knee arthritis and are exercising and the pain is either not getting better - or getting worse - you may be making a mistake. You may actually be making things worse. And that’s the last thing you want to do.

What are the two “smart moves?” If you have knee arthritis pain, look into viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid. In many cases treatment with hyaluronic acid followed by a specific rehabilitation or exercise program can get results when everything else has failed. In fact, it is not uncommon to get pain relieve just from the hyaluronic acid treatments alone - without doing any rehabilitation or exercising at all.

And the results can be dramatic.

If you are thinking about giv-

ing hyaluronic acid treatments a try - this is VERY IMPORTANT: In our opinion the doctor you choose should use advanced imaging technology such as fluoroscopy to guide the injections and make sure the hyaluronic acid goes where it is supposed to. Laser guided digital imaging is one of the best technologies to guide injections.

Research shows that without fluoroscopy, doctors miss the joint space up to 30% of the time. Obviously, if the joint space is missed - the treatment cannot work.

If you have already had viscosupplementaion without this advanced imaging technology and it did not work - you may want to give it another try with a doctor who uses this cutting edge technique to get the best results possible.

So, if you suffer with knee arthritis pain, talk to a specialist about viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid especially if exercise is not working or making things worse.

And make sure the doctor you choose works in a state-of-the-art medical facility and uses advanced fluoroscopic imaging (Like laser guided digital imaging) to guide the injections to make sure the treatments have the best chance to work.

For more information on viscosupplementation for knee arthritis or to get a free screening to see if this treatment is right for you, one of the specialists at Osteo Relief Institute can be reached at 719323-6612.

Knee Pain Treatment Craze In Colorado Springs After thousands already helped knee pain suffers face 48 hour cut off to get risk free screening for incredibly popular treatment

(ORI) - The clock is ticking. There is only 48 hours to go.

If you suffer with knee arthritis pain and would like to get a risk free knee pain screening to see if the experts at Osteo Relief Institute in Colorado Springs, CO can help you with their extremely popular knee pain relief program read this right now.

Here is why: For the past several years, the experts at Osteo Relief Institute have been literally swarmed with knee arthritis sufferers looking for relief.

Nearly all these knee pain sufferers chose Osteo Relief for one reason - their top-notch knee pain relief program featuring viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid and specially designed rehabilitation program.

The Secret To Success?

The experts at Osteo Relief Institute believe one of the biggest reasons for their success is the fact that they have some of the best technology money can buy.

Laser Guided Digital Imaging The clinic uses extremely advanced imaging equipment that allows them to see directly into the knee joint that they are treating.

This advanced imaging is called, “Laser Guided Digital Imaging” and many experts believe is the difference between success and failure with this knee pain treatment.

And probably the best thing about this technology is that is has allowed the experts at Osteo Relief Institute to get results with knee pain when so many others have failed.

What Is This Treatment?

This treatment is viscosupplementation with hyaluronic acid (HA). Those are big medical terms that basically means this...

When you have knee arthritis - the lubricating fluid (synovial fluid) in your knee joint dries up.

This means instead of gliding smoothly - your bones start to rub

and grind against each other.

This causes a little pain in the beginning - but over time the pain steadily gets worse until it is excruciating.

Hyaluronic acid works so well because it is like “joint oil.” It is a natural substance and is one of the natural building blocks of the synovial fluid that lubricates your knee.

Scientists and researchers discovered this natural building block to synovial fluid in the rooster’s comb - that big red thing on top of the roosters head. It is extracted from the roosters comb, purified and concentrated.

When it is injected directly into your knee joint, it is like squirting oil on a rusty door hinge.

Hyaluronic acid allows your joints to glide more smoothly eliminating a lot of the rubbing, grinding and pain.

Why You Should Try This Even If You’ve Already Had Similar Treatments Without results...

“We have been able to help so many knee pain sufferers - even many who have already tried other injections like Synvisc, Supartz, Orthovisc and even Hyalgan. We use special and very advanced low-dose video fluoroscopy imaging called “Hologic Digital Imaging” so we can see right into the joint. This allows us to put the Hyaglan exactly where is needs to be. Studies show doctors doing joint injections without fluoroscopy miss the joint up to 30% of the time.” said the director of Arthritis Treatment at Osteo Relief Institute.

Osteo Relief Institute is a state of the art medical facility offering only the best technology.

And that’s not all - Osteo Relief Institute has a complete knee relief program called “P.A.C.E.” to make sure you get the most pain relief and the best possible results from treatment.

“Every case is individual.

lief Institute can only accept a limited amount of new patients each month for this screening. And because of the demand, we can only guarantee you a spot if you call within the next 48 hours.

If you are suffering in pain - make the call right now so you can make your appointment today. Why not take 20 minutes for your risk free screening to discover how you may be able to end your knee arthritis pain?

So call 719-323-6612 right Successful Treatment - Hyalgan Failed Treatment - the injection now and find out if the exbeing precisely injected directly into (and Hyalgan) misses the joint the knee joint using Hologic digital perts at Osteo Relief Institute space. Research shows this ocimaging. Advanced imaging alcurs up to 30% of the time without can help you like they have lows treatments to be as precise as the use of holistic digital imaging already helped thousands of possible. Hyalgan can lubricate the to guide the injection. This is why others in your community. joint and decrease pain.

Hyalgan may not have worked for And here’s something you. really important - Hyaluronic acid treatments and the P.A.C.E program are covered by Some patients get quite a bit of re- pain. most insurance and Medicare. To lief right away - others take a little But You Must Do This schedule your risk free screenmore time. But most have been exRIGHT NOW tremely happy and the results usuThe specialists at Osteo Re- ing. ally last for at least 6 months. Patients who were suffering for years If You Can Answer Yes - You Are with bad knee pain are getting Eligible For A Knee Arthritis their lives back... going for walks again and exercising. It’s amazing Screening With The Experts At to see. They tell all their friends Osteo Relief Institute that’s why we are swarmed. I can’t tell you how many patients have Do you have pain and osteoarthritis (arthritis) of cancelled their total knee replacethe knee? ment surgeries.” added one of the doctors.

Have you tried other treatments such as How To Get It NSAIDS and other anti-inflammatory medicaIf you have knee pain, the doctors and staff would like to invite tions without success? you for a risk free screening to see Have you already tried viscosupplementation if you are a candidate for Hyalgan treatments and the P.A.C.E pro(Hyalgan, Supartz, Synvisc) without satisfactory gram. results?

All you have to do is call 719323-6612 right now and when the If you answered yes to any of these questionsscheduling specialist answers the call Osteo Relief Institute and schedule your risk free phone tell her you would like your knee pain screening 719-323-6612 free “Knee Pain Screening.” Your screening will only take about 25-30 minutes... you will get all your questions answered and leave knowing if you have possibly Non-Surgical Spine Pain, Neuropathy, And Joint Arthritis Treatment found the solution to your knee

6-Opinion

6 Elbert County News

Y O U R S

OPINION

January 29, 2015

&

O U R S

A publication of

9137 Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210 Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-566-4100 Fax: 303-566-4098 On the Web: ElbertCountyNews.net Get Social with us

GERARD HEALEY President and Publisher CHRIS ROTAR Editor THERESE DOMBROWSKI Marketing Consultant ERIN ADDENBROOKE Major Accounts and Classified Manager AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager

For some, it’s often time to get down There is a bright golden haze on the meadow.

This column is for anyone who is alone, lonely, or on the outside looking in.

For anyone who is experiencing life in sad ways or depressing ways.

Deaths, illnesses, losses.

For a few minutes, this is just for you.

You can’t really be accountable without accountability. Credible if you haven’t had ups and downs yourself.

I have had some downs.

I can remember sitting on the couch in 2008 and reading the newspaper about the worldly mayhem, and not particularly caring as much as I normally would.

Because my father was dying — couldn’t eat, drink, talk.

I missed all of the things that were headlines in news, sports and entertainment.

I am not here with balloons or phrases from the Bible.

When I am down, I am down. If someone were to say, “Lift your head up, sunshine,” I would want to get a sock full of manure.

But I know that a lot of people look for inspiration — and hope — anywhere they can get it.

It has been alleged that I am a grouch.

To some extent I am. Mostly because of the ways we treat each other. Hurt each other.

Kill each other.

Neglect animals.

I have an animal. He doesn’t know it, but he has some considerable visibility.

Not like Rin Tin Tin. He was just a little guy who wasn’t wanted and then he was, and now he has a blanket in every room.

I look into his eyes every day, and just about all of the answers I need are right there.

That works for me, but it might not work for someone else.

Another thing that works for me is music. The opposite of hip-hop works for me.

Beethoven is infallible. I have outlived him by 10 years. He went deaf. I can listen to him over and over.

In off moments, I have thought about this: Why is there Beethoven and men who would go into a Nigerian community and slaughter children, and gloat?

I do not have an answer, and no cleric does either.

The bright golden haze might be a glass of water when you are thirsty. Nothing more than that.

There is an inverted fountain on a college campus out west. Twenty-four hours a day, water flows over river rocks into an

off-center well.

The chancellor said that he didn’t want another fountain that “squirted water into the air.”

I used to sit next to the fountain and do nothing. I didn’t say anything. I just sat there.

The fountain was installed in 1968 just for me. I am sure of it.

Fifty years later, a friend of mine said, “Sometimes the best thing to do — is nothing.”

I think the friend was the fountain, following me to here.

Jennifer knows about the fountain. We have seen it together. And I asked her to bring me back to it. In a baggie.

Nope. This isn’t “Wuthering Heights.”

Life kicks at us and kicks us down.

Invariably and it’s inevitable. There may be a bright golden haze on the meadow for an hour or two.

But there are moments.

Hexe and I went for walks together, and one day I asked her to marry me.

There were wild strawberries.

Later on I watched “Wild Strawberries” in film class.

It looked familiar. I recommend it.

But here it is. Hexe was a dachshund, and I was 5.

Jennifer is supposed to take me back to the fountain, and nearby play “In My Life.”

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

Clarity, determination key to reaching goals It was a very clear focus and spirit of determination that propelled the climbers to the summit of El Capitan. The free climb was the first in history on that steep wall in Yosemite National Park.

Teamwork and commitment with a very clear focus on winning the Super Bowl is what has brought the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks to the NFL’s most coveted game, which will be played on Feb. 1.

Remarkable work ethic, skill, and perseverance coupled with a laser focus on winning every event she competes in helped Lindsey Vonn establish herself in the record books as the all-time winner in Women’s World Cup racing events.

And it was clarity and focus that were the key factors in helping Margaret achieve her two goals, losing 50 pounds and giving up smoking. In her letter to me she said that she had been overweight for most of her life and she had been a smoker for more than 20 years.

Now Margaret may not have summited El Capitan during a free climb or made her way to the Super Bowl, and I confirmed

that she never competed in a Women’s World Cup event, but she kept her eye on her own prize with intense clarity and focus. Her prize was reclaiming her health, and with courage and determination she pursued it vigorously until she reached her ideal weight and has officially become a non-smoker. And, by the way, Margaret says she was following some of the goal setting ideas I have shared in this column over the years.

You see, goal setting is not just for professional athletes or teams. Goal setting is not just for businesses and sales people, goal setting is for everyone. The enemies of goal achievement are mediocrity and complacency allowing us to settle into the

world of the average and also-rans. And when we have no goal or target to focus on, how can we ever keep our eye on the prize?

If the enemies of goal achievement are mediocrity and complacency, it can be said that the friends of achieving our goals are excellence and focus. The pursuit of excellence in all that we do, and a very clear focus on why we want to do it.

What is it that we want the most? Is it to be the number one business, is it to be the top salesperson in our company? Could we have a deep desire to lose weight, build muscle, and become a more physically fit person? Maybe there is an addiction or habit that we need to quit and release ourselves from the grip that they hold over our lives. Whatever our goal is, whatever dream we are pursuing, we need to understand what it is and why we want it. The prize has to be clearly understood so that we can maintain our focused passion and our eyes upon that prize.

Once we have that focus, the “how” part of our planning comes into play. But first Norton continues on Page 7

SCOTT ANDREWS Production Manager SHARI MARTINEZ Circulation Manager

We welcome event listings and other submissions.

News and Business Press Releases Please visit ElbertCountyNews.net, click on the Submit Your News tab and choose a category from the drop down menu.

Calendar calendar@coloradocommunitymedia.com Military Notes militarynotes@coloradocommunitymedia.com School Accomplishments schoolnotes@coloradocommunitymedia.com Sports sports@coloradocommunitymedia.com Obituaries obituaries@coloradocommunitymedia.com To Subscribe call 303-566-4100

Columnists and Guest Commentaries The Elbert County News features a limited number of regular columnists, found on these pages and elsewhere in the paper, depending on the typical subject the columnist covers. Their opinions are not necessarily those of the Elbert County News.

Want your own chance to bring an issue to our readers’ attention, to highlight something great in our community, or just to make people laugh?

Why not write a letter of 300 words or fewer.

Include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Email letters to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com

WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER Our team of professional reporters, photographers and editors are out in the community to bring you the news each week, but we can’t do it alone.

Send your news tips, your own photographs, event information, letters, commentaries...

If it happens, it’s news to us.

Please share by contacting us at news@coloradocommunitymedia.com, and we will take it from there.

After all, the News is your paper.

7

Elbert County News 7

January 29, 2015

Vets Continued from Page 1

percent accountable for myself.”

The Veterans Treatment Court is one of several 18th Judicial District problem-solving courts. The goal is to ensure community safety while participants receive treatment and the help they need to return as active, contributing members of the community. Participants may reside anywhere in the district, which encompasses Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties.

There are currently 21 veterans enrolled in the program.

The number is expected to grow to 30 — the maximum the program can accommodate — in the next couple months.

Veterans Treatment Court is a voluntary program, and each volunteer agrees to actively engage in treatment and counseling, make regular court appearances and undergo intense supervision.

Each of the veterans was in jail at one point prior to joining the program, and each was sentenced to probation.

Most participants graduate in 18-24 months.

Magistrate Bonnie McLean, who is on the bench for the program, said the court began in March 2013 when veterans’ services advocates, lawyers and others sought ways to help returning veterans who got in trouble with the law.

A veteran who has run afoul of the law needs to apply to become part of the program. A panel of those involved with the treatment court reviews the application. The majority who are accepted agree to join the program.

“The goal was to make sure to protect the community,” said McLean, a Parker resident. “However, at the same time, the program wants to help veterans deal with and hopefully solve the problems that led them into the criminal justice system.”

The atmosphere in the Veterans Treatment Court is very different than in a traditional courtroom. During the Jan. 16 court session, McLean talked one-on-one with veterans in the program. They discussed accomplishments and shared humorous moments. When the judge congratulated the veteran, the standing-room-only crowd in the courtroom gave the veteran a standing ovation.

Following the regular court session, it was time for the graduation ceremonies.

George Brauchler, district attorney for the 18th Judicial District, told those attending the graduation that a lot of people worked to help the five veterans succeed and reach this point.

He urged them to take advantage of the opportunity to succeed as they reach for lofty goals.

BOCC Continued from Page 1

notification, but because of possible electronic disruption, the Internet posting will not be the official one.

In addition, anyone interested in receiving emailed notices may request to be added to the county’s distribution list. After two years, addresses will be removed from the list unless the individuals renew their request with the clerk to the BOCC.

Norton Continued from Page 6

we have to have the commitment in our hearts and the mindset of dedication in our heads before the strategies and tactics can be executed upon. Where our heads and our hearts go, our bodies will surely follow.

Goal setting doesn’t discriminate, it is not a special event for the privileged few.

Kevin Slack talks about his experience getting his life squared away with the help of the 18th Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court. Ceremonies were held Jan. 16 as Slack and four other veterans became the first graduates from the program. Photo by Tom Munds Magistrate McLean brought each graduate to the podium individually. Each graduate, accompanied by family, talked about what the event meant to him.

Graduate Dan Mitchell, who served two tours in Iraq, said the treatment court provided him a second chance after he had violated the law.

“It’s a new start and I am moving forward,” he said. “I am scheduled to complete the requirements for my master’s degree in business so I can graduate in June from the University of Colorado. I plan to put my life back on track as I hope to find a job in the energy industry.”

Fellow graduate Rodney Miller said the court program helped him discover why he didn’t fit in with society after he left the service.

“Everyone helped me find my balance,” he told the au-

Robert Rowland, District 1 commissioner, maintains that the BOCC has been in compliance with the provisions of the Sunshine statute, but the county would go beyond the minimum provision in the law to keep residents informed. He also emphasized that the BOCC must be diligent in policing itself if discussions wander from employee matters or agenda items into unnoticed public issues.

“The static line is making sure we meet the state statute, and I feel strongly that we have done that in good faith.”

Rowland said. “It doesn’t mean that people won’t make mistakes, or things don’t happen and postings fall off the board.”

dience. “I once felt like a lost cause. But so many people encouraged and helped me, so now there is hope for success where there was only failure.”

Miller was always an aspiring artist, and the program helped him step out and tackle the major task of painting a 40-foot-long mural on the wall at Civic Center Apartments.

“Eight veteran artists plus 40 members of the community helped create the pattern for the mural,” he said. “When I stepped on the pattern, I felt the energy from the veterans who helped create the mural.”

Miller, a Denver resident, is headed to the East Coast, where he will travel, helping aspiring artists and accepting public speaking engagements about veterans’ issues and his experiences in the program.

Following the Jan. 21 session, Ross said he was satisfied with the overall provisions of the proposed meetings policy and stressed that the final version needs to be in compliance with state law.

The Sunshine statutes were passed in 1991 to prevent public officials from

meeting in private to make decisions on public policies and then rubber-stamping those decisions at public meetings.

The law requires notifications and/or agendas to be posted 24 hours prior to applicable meetings where public policy is discussed or decisions are made.

Goal setting knows no age barriers and is open to everyone who has a dream. What’s your dream?

Do you have a prize in mind? Is your eye clearly upon that prize? I would love to hear all about it at gotonorton@gmail. com, and when we stay passionately focused on that prize, it really will be a better than good week.

Michael Norton is a resident of Castle Rock, the former president of the Zig Ziglar Corporation, a strategic consultant and a business and personal coach.

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8

8 Elbert County News

January 29, 2015

New horse park owners plan outreach Partnership wants to get rid of ‘elitism,’ involve more families

By Chris Michlewicz

cmichlewicz @coloradocommunitymedia.com Community involvement will be a driving force in the planned rejuvenation of the Colorado Horse Park.

Colorado Equestrian Partners, an investment group comprising five families, finalized its purchase of the equestrian show venue south of Parker and is already prioritizing upgrades to the facility. The purchase price was not disclosed; the facility was put on the market for $11.5 million in 2009.

The partnership took the reins Jan. 12 and plans to be ready with a full schedule of events in the spring and summer. Colorado Equestrian Partners is putting a focus on deeper public participation and looking outside of equestrian circles for new fans, said Mark Bellissimo, an investor in the group.

“Our model is very community-centric,” he said. “We want to work with schools and local charities and try hard to make sure we take the edge off of the elitism that exists in equestrian sports — make it more fun and familyoriented than other venues and facilities.”

Colorado Equestrian Partners also owns Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Fla., and Tryon International Equestrian Center in Tryon, N.C. The Colorado Horse Park is the third and likely final piece in a triumvirate of world-class facilities run by the group. It also owns Chronicle of the Horse, a popular equestrian magazine and online publication.

The sale included not only the 148-acre venue, but nearly 50 acres of adjoining undeveloped land. The new owners have not de-

LEFT: The Colorado Horse Park, an equestrian venue south of Parker, was recently purchased by an investment group for an undisclosed sum. Photo by Carole Kenney RIGHT: Mark and Katherine Bellissimo, members of the Colorado Equestrian Partners investment group that purchased the Colorado Horse Park Jan. 12. Courtesy photo cided how to use the property and will take input from local trainers and riders on the best possible uses, Bellissimo said.

Before the sale, Helen Krieble, who founded the Colorado Horse Park in 1992, voiced concern that the venue would be torn down to make way for more housing, instead of being kept open as an equestrian center. Originally called High Prairie Farms, the venue was built in an upscale neighborhood in the back of the Pinery.

The news that it would continue as an equestrian hub was celebrated by officials in Douglas County and Parker, including Parker Town Councilmember Josh Martin, who referred to the horse park as a “landmark.”

“It would have been unfortunate to see it become something other than what it already is,” Martin said. “It certainly contributes to the overall ambience of our area.”

Bellissimo, who was encouraged by regular riders in Wellington to consider buying the horse park, said it was Douglas and Elbert counties’ rich equestrian heritage that was a major selling point. He saw an opportunity to

improve upon an established institution with strong local backing.

“It has a great footprint, but it probably needs some new energy and new capital to make it world class,” Bellissimo said.

Outside of its expansive views of the Front Range, the horse park is widely known for its six-week “Summer in the Rockies” hunter/ jumper series. But some riders have avoided the venue in recent years because of substandard footing in the arenas. It’s one “deficiency” the new owners plan to upgrade in all of the arenas, Bellissimo said.

Both he and Martin spoke about the economic impact of the facility; Martin pointed to a 2012 study that said the horse industry in Douglas and Elbert counties generates between $100 million and $135 million in consumer spending annually. The Colorado Horse Park generates $15 million annually by itself, including hotel stays, dining and boarding.

“I don’t know that you can overstate the impact that it has on our area,” Martin said.

And those numbers don’t factor in the in-

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tangible exposure for the town and county.

The high-profile Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington brings in riders from 50 states and 33 countries and is the “largest horse show in the world,” Bellissimo said. It generates $200 million in spending over three months.

Bellissimo has been a “pony dad” since 1996. His wife, Katherine, and their three children all ride and are involved in the family business. The close-knit partnership of five families is rooted in equestrian culture, a quality that will lend itself to a deeper sense of responsibility to the sport and, ideally, a successful venture.

Aside from revenue, Colorado Equestrian Partners wants to leave its philanthropic mark on the community. Bellissimo and his daughter created a charity challenge five years ago that has raised about $6.4 million for randomly-selected nonprofits.

“It’s about what we leave in terms of a legacy and being able to make an impact in the community,” Bellissimo said. “(Success) is measured in the lives we’ve touched.”

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9-Life

January 29, 2015

S O U T H

LIFE

Elbert County News 9

M E T R O

Brad Yoder, owner of Biker Brad’s at South Parker Road and Pine Lane, helps regular customer Ray Doudna, of Parker, on Jan. 15. Photos by Chris Michlewicz

Shop caters to biker population Biker Brad’s along popular road for motorcycle riders

By Chris Michlewicz

cmichlewicz @coloradocommunitymedia.com What better place to be than along a well-traveled route that leads to the scenic highways and byways prized by motorcycle riders?

On bright and sunny weekends, thousands of motorcycles roar down South Parker Road, a primary conduit to Franktown and Colorado Springs, where the roads are open and winds whip more freely.

An ever-growing number of riders are finding a stop along the way that suits their lifestyle needs: Biker Brad’s.

It was just over a year ago when Brad Yoder, of Aurora, filled his shop with leather accessories and jacket patches and “man cave art” and introduced himself to the tight-knit biker community. Situated on the northwest corner of South Parker Road and Pine Lane, kitty-corner from a HarleyDavidson dealership, Biker Brad’s is the first such store in Parker to cater to the large population of riders in the area.

LEFT: Motorcycle jacket patches hang on the walls at Biker Brad’s. RIGHT: The inner workings of a Harley-Davidson displayed at Biker Brad’s.

Although he appears to fit the traditional profile of a biker, Yoder doesn’t come across as a tough nut to crack. In fact, he is amiable and easy-going, quick to greet a first-

time customer or a regular with the same jovial attitude. And he touts his sewing skills when putting on patches, a service that not every store can claim and a talent not every burly biker might mention.

As a member of the Douglas County Chapter of HOG, or Harley Owners Group, Yoder knows that the area is a hotbed for riders from across the demographic spectrum. Gone are the days when the idea of a biker evoked images of a rough-aroundthe-edges guy with a massive beard and scars. Today, they are well-to-do executives, PTA moms, retirees and — well, the bearded guys still fit in.

“The average Harley rider is in their 50s, with a graduate-level education and a sixfigure income,” Yoder says. “It’s changed.”

Finding a niche

Biker Brad’s owner Brad Yoder talks about the support among Douglas County’s motorcycle riders. He recently celebrated the first anniversary of the store, which is on the northwest corner of South Parker Road and Pine Lane.

The former motorcycle salesman came up with the idea to open a store when a leather outlet in southeast Aurora closed two years ago. It left a gap in the market for motorcycle accessories, and he snapped up a vacant storefront that was formerly a bicycle shop, and before that, a dry cleaner.

The empty space was along a popular thoroughfare for bikers and is directly across the street from Parker Adventist Hospital, where his wife works. Yoder enjoys a good relationship with the nearby Harley dealership, which sends customers over for patch sewing.

“This was a logical choice,” he says of the

location.

New customers discover Biker Brad’s every week, but there is a loyal following of people who stop by just about every week.

That includes Ray Doudna, a regular from Parker who has become a friend. After shooting the breeze with Yoder, Doudna picked up a new pair of boots Jan. 15.

“I have about 20 people who come in once a week, get cup of coffee. Some bring their dog with them,” Yoder says.

Humble beginnings Yoder admits his entrance into the world of motorcycles is a bit “cliché,” sounding a lot like the stories told by others. He was in college, bought a motorcycle and “hid it from my parents,” covering it with a sheet and passing it off as a neighbor’s bike. It was years before they found out. These days, it’s different shell game.

“The next step is hiding how many you own,” Yoder says with a laugh, before acknowledging that he has four and his wife has one.

His first foray in the world of shop ownership has been less tumultuous. Word of mouth has mobilized the riding community, and Yoder plans to be around for a while.

Eventually, he hopes to open a similar store on the west side of town, possibly Lakewood or Golden.

For more information, go to www.bikerbrads.com or call 303-841-7727.

10

10 Elbert County News

Sweet sounds slated for Englewood show Colorado Symphony members will showcase their versatility playing music of Mozart and Saint-Saens in a chamber concert at 2 p.m. Feb. 14 at Hampden Hall, in Englewood Civic Center, 1000 Englewood Parkway. Harpist Ann-Marie Liss and Brook Ferguson, CSO principal flute will perform with members of the string and wind sections in Mozart’s “Dissonance” Quartet, No. 19 in C Major K.465 and in Saint-Saens’ “Fantasie for Violin and Harp.” Tickets $20/$15 (free under 18), available one hour prior to concert.

Time is bent in ‘Predestination’ Film is clearer for those who read original story

By Jocelyn Noveck Associated Press

Littleton Public Schools administration center, 5776 S. Crocker St. in Littleton, and welcomes guests and new members.

Perfect timing as gardeners grow restless in mid-winter.

Young people take stage

“The Secret Garden: The Musical,” adapted from the beloved children’s book by Frances Hodgson Burnett, will be presented by CYT, Christian Youth Theatre, at Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons St., Lone Tree, on Feb. 5-8. The cast includes young actors ages 8 to 18, who participate in after school drama programs. Performances: 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 5; 7 p.m. Feb. 6 and 7; 2 p.m.

Feb. 7, 8. Tickets cost $16/$13, $10 for school performance at 10 a.m. cytdenver. org/shows.

Rachmaninoff to ragtime

The Littleton Symphony will feature pianist Hsing-ay Hsu in a concert at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at Littleton United Methodist Church, 5894 S. Datura St., Littleton.

She will perform Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto No. 2.” Also on the program: music by Barber, Gershwin, Bernstein and Berlin. Tickets: $15/$12, free 21 and under, littletonsymphony.org or at Gorsett’s Violin Shop, 8100 S. Quebec, B 206, Centennial. 303-933-6824, info@ littletonsymphony.org.

Show at Elements 5280

Tots time

Leon Loughridge, Peggy Judy and Tony Hochstetler, all included in the 2015 Coors Western Art Exhibit, will show their art at Elements 5280 Gallery, 5940 S. Holly St., Greenwood Village. Included: Loughridge’s “Calendar Series” watercolors and woodblocks; Judy’s newest acrylics of animals; and new bronzes and photographs by Hochstetler. 303-8045280, elements5280.com.

Breath of spring

January 29, 2015

Inside the Orchestra will partner with Central City Opera and Kim Robards Dance Company for a series of six Tiny Tots Inside the Orchestra concerts, including shows in the south metro area at 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. on Feb. 9 at The Wildlife Experience, 10035 S. Peoria St., Parker. Tickets cost $9.95 per person. For information about other locations and to purchase tickets, visit insidetheorchestra. org/tiny-tots-events.

O’Toole’s Garden Shop in Littleton, on Federal Boulevard south of Belleview, will hold an Early Spring Garden Show on Jan. 31 and Feb. 7, with model gardens, classes, demonstrations and more, according to a note from the Littleton Garden Club — which meets regularly at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at the

Noel to speak in Littleton

Tom Noel, “Dr. Colorado,” will present stories and photos about the South Platte River — history and rebirth and future plans — at 7 p.m. Feb. 10 at Bemis Library, 6014 S. Datura St., Littleton. 303795-3961.

WONDERBOUNDMARIE

FEATURING THE BAROQUE CHAMBER ORCHESTRA Feb. 14 and 15

Explores the complexities surrounding the life of Marie Antoinette.

THE STORY PIRATES

Feb. 26 10:00 a.m.

12:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

A family sketch comedy adapted from stories written by kids.

PARKER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

FESTIVE CELEBRATION Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

Fight the doldrums of winter with this cheerful evening of music.

MARC COHN

March 14 at 7:30 p.m.

The soulful Grammy winner whose hits include “Walking in Memphis.”

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BRASSWORKS

CELTIC STORM March 15 at 2:00 p.m.

Denver’s only authentic brass band is back by popular demand.

BUY TICKETS AT www.ParkerArts.org OR CALL 303.805.6800

Time travel. There’s hardly a more alluring fantasy in our pop culture, from the simplest depictions — children’s cartoons, comic strips, romantic comedy films — to the “Interstellar’’ kind that you need a physics degree to understand.

Count “Predestination’’ among the more complex explorations of the concept: a strange, yet also strangely alluring, adaptation of a definitively weird short story, “All You Zombies’’ by Robert Heinlein, about a time-tripping crime-fighter (Ethan Hawke, in his appealing Everyman persona). Directed by the Spierig brothers (Michael and Peter), the film may not require a physics degree. But it does require a decent night’s sleep and most of your brain cells. This is not a movie to watch after several glasses of wine.

Speaking of wine, Hawke plays a man known only as The Barkeep. And yes, he tends bar occasionally, but his real job title is Temporal Agent, which is just as cool as it sounds. We meet him in 1970s Manhattan, where he’s preparing for his final mission — taking down a terrorist called the Fizzle Bomber, who, if not stopped, will destroy much of the city. Dismantling one of the man’s bombs, he loses much of his face. But he recovers to look like, well, Ethan Hawke.

One evening, a guy walks into a bar.

Or, sort of a guy. His name is Unmarried Mother, and the reason for that name will slowly be revealed as he tells his story in flashbacks — a highlight of the film. Turns out Unmarried Mother — played by the terrific Australian actress Sarah Snook, in a wonderfully nuanced, gender-bending performance — began his unusual life as a female baby named Jane, abandoned on the steps of a Cleveland orphanage in 1945.

After a youth in which she displays a tomboy streak and fighting skills, she winds up being recruited in the ‘60s to Space Corps, a strange force of women tasked with having sex with astronauts in space, to relieve their tension. But before she can blast off, she winds up impregnated by a mysterious young man who then deserts her.

It gets weirder. She gives birth to a baby girl, and doctors inform her that they discovered both male and female organs inside her. They’ve chosen to make her a man. She (he) ends up in New York, where she (he) makes a living writing confes-

In this image released by Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions, Sarah Snook, Left, and Ethan Hawke appear in a scene from the film, “Predestination.” Associated Press

MOVIE DETAILS “Predestination,’’ a Sony Pictures release, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association of America “for violence, some sexuality, nudity and language.’’ Running time: 97 minutes. Two and a half stars out of four. sional stories for magazines, using her (his) special woman’s intuition.

The action gets going in the second half, when Barkeep offers Jane the chance to go back in time and alter what happened.

She jumps at the chance, without knowing just how it’s going to happen. Barkeep dusts off the old time machine, which lives in a violin case, and the two travel back to Jane’s origins.

But Barkeep’s got an agenda, and it’s here that revealing any more plot becomes tricky. First, because of spoilers, but also because it gets really confusing. Certainly those who’ve read Heinlein’s story (easily available online) will know what they’re seeing, and sci-fi aficionados who think a certain way may have a good sense, too.

Many others, though, will be aching more than once to hit a rewind button.

Like me, you may also find yourself asking, wait, can THAT happen in time travel?

Why, of course it can. It’s fiction. But you’ll see what I mean.

You may also ask yourself why you haven’t seen Snook before. This actress, who resembles a young Jodie Foster, gives a chameleon-like performance that’s about much more than makeup and costumes and voice register. She makes the more preposterous scenes seem plausible, and even when they’re not plausible, at least interesting. And she’s only in her 20s; time is on her side.

n’

11-Calendar

Elbert County News 11

January 29, 2015

Arts scene grows at feverish PACE Parker taps into thirst for education programs, national acts

By Chris Michlewicz

cmichlewicz @coloradocommunitymedia.com

More than three years after opening its doors, the Parker Arts, Culture and Events Center is riding a growing wave of popularity and finding its niche in the regional arts community. ppear A quick look d Press at the figures tells the story: In 2009, when the Mainstreet Center was the only viable performing arts venue in Parker, revenue from ticket sales was a paltry $13,847. Because — Performances held of the addition of the PACE Center (his) and the formation — Tickets sold of several theater half, production groups, — Classes o that number is held ed. expected to be w- around $820,000 in — Weddings eep 2015, according to held ives the town’s budget.

Ticket sales k to million — went from 31,093 Amount of Town of in 2013 to 42,292 s Parker subsidy mes last year, a 36 perso cent increase de— Amount of nly spite the addition Scientific and ily of only four shows.

That means the Cultural Facilities e District funding k a number of seats sold per show o. ore “went up significantly,” said Elaine Mariner, cultural director for the Town of Parker. askA portion of the growth is due to the vel? scheduling of national touring acts like ou’ll Clint Black and Rosanne Cash, but Mariner attributes much of the year-over-year increase between 2013 and 2014 to the hiring , of education manager Kirstin Fletcher last ves January. bout Education programming is “growing by es leaps and bounds,” particularly since the creation of the student matinee program, nd Mariner said. It involves schoolteachers st and incorporates lesson plans into producme tions like “Harry the Dirty Dog.” It brought approximately 2,600 students to the main stage theater in 2014.

Detailed research and outreach via

PACE CENTER

BY THE NUMBERS

131

42,292 483 26

The Parker Arts, Culture and Events Center opened in fall 2011. Photo by Chris Michlewicz

$1.05

teacher surveys has further defined programming at PACE. It was Fletcher who was charged with taking a strategic look at classes and potential shows.

“Parker has for a long time offered quality and popular arts education programming, but we weren’t being strategic about what the trends were,” Mariner said. “We were sort of offering the same things year in and year out.”

The matinees have brought a youthful energy to the PACE Center.

“By far my favorite part of my job is being inside the theater when there are 500 kids in there and they’re just ecstatic to be in the building and entranced by what they see,” Fletcher said.

The types of PACE Center shows and events are determined by a committee, and recent additions like free patio parties and classes that introduce children to theater performance skills like stage fighting, have grown in popularity.

PACE leaders also plan to further develop the Discovery series, a $5-per-class program that invites families to learn about a range of subjects. In 2014, on separate nights, the arts facility hosted a bat expert, an instructor who taught the finer points

$200,000

of beekeeping, and the Butterfly Pavilion, which brought live insects. This year, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science is bringing a portable planetarium to the PACE Center and also exploring the world of model rocketry with local families.

Because of the explosion of interest in robotics, and because Scientific and Cultural Facilities District funds require it, the PACE Center is introducing more science, technology and engineering classes. It is also hosting a competitive robot rally in May called the Parker Rover Rally.

The attention to trends and interests across different demographics has resulted in a 20 percent increase in class enrollment, and the number of classes offered at the PACE Center jumped by 50 percent.

Word is getting out about Parker’s “crown jewel for arts” because of good programming, effective marketing and a “community that has discovered how truly great the PACE Center is,” said Diane Roth, chairwoman of the Parker Cultural and Scientific Commission, which acts as a citizen advisory board to the town’s cultural staff.

The PACE Center is also on the radar for couples looking to tie the knot. The venue hosted 26 weddings last year, and that

number is expected to rise. A new pergola, water feature and flowers now complement captivating mountain views.

Between revenue from ticket sales, education registrations, rentals, concessions, grants, individual contributions and corporate sponsorships, total revenue was up 25 percent last year.

Despite the rise in income, however, overall revenue covered roughly 62 percent of expenditures in 2014. But it’s far better than the industry average of 50 percent, Mariner says. The Town of Parker provided a $1 million subsidy for the PACE Center in 2014 and the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District kicked in $200,000.

“No performing arts center is self-sufficient,” Mariner says.

But the town’s investMariner ment has proved its worth, and the thriving arts scene is driving more people to the downtown area and providing a wider selection of entertainment and learning opportunities every day of the week.

Pacino exudes comic energy in ‘The Humbling’ Actor delivers his best performance in years

MOVIE DETAILS “The Humbling,’’ a Millennium Entertainment release, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association of America for “sexual material, language and brief violence.’’ Running time: 129 minutes. Two and a half stars out of four.

By Lindsay Bahr Associated Press

Al Pacino delivers his best performance in years in “The Humbling,’’ a tragicomic look at a veteran stage and film actor on the edge of a nervous breakdown.

That description might seem like an unwelcome invitation for another ham-fisted late-era Pacino bit, but, from the opening shot, it’s clear that the infamously overthe-top actor is trying something different: subtlety.

It’s just a shame “Birdman’’ had to come out first. There’s probably only so much audience thirst for stories about hallucinationprone, past-their-prime actors, but Pacino fans (and skeptics) would be remiss to skip this one, even if “Birdman’’ is the superior film.

Adapted from Philip Roth’s 2009 novel, “The Humbling,’’ directed by Barry Levinson (“Rain Man’’), the film introduces audiences to Axler as he limply applies makeup and recites Shakespeare to himself in the mirror.

Not only is Axler worried he’s lost his talent, after 50 years of acting, he’s also become increasingly unable to distinguish reality from his imagination, a recurring theme that is used to disorient the audience throughout.

After a brief delusion, where he thinks he gets locked out of the theater and indifferent security guards refuse to let him in, Axler takes the stage, mumbles a few lines, and promptly swan dives into the orchestra. The stunt gets him thrown into a recovery center where he is forced to confront the state of his

Al Pacino stars with Kyra Sedgwick and Greta Gerwig in the new film, “The Humbling,” released in U.S. theaters on Jan. 23. Associated Press photo life and mental health for the first time.

When he’s released to his Connecticut mansion, which, even after 14 years of residency, looks as though he’s just moved in, he contemplates suicide by shotgun (“Hemingway must have had longer arms,’’ he says after it fails) and dallies the days away until he gets an unexpected visit from Pegeen (“Frances Ha’s’’ Greta Gerwig), the young lesbian daughter of his old theater friends (Dianne Wiest and Dan Hedaya).

Pegeen, who harbored a longtime schoolgirl crush on her parents’ famous friend, quickly and improbably seduces him and the two begin a fraught relationship. She

pushes him to get back to work. He buys her expensive things to try to make her look more feminine.

It’s as cynical and unsentimental as anything else in the film and never veers into uncomfortable territory, thanks in part to the fact that Pacino’s Axler doesn’t seem to take Pegeen’s affection and interest as a given.

Gerwig’s Pegeen is a thirtysomething in arrested development who we always believe is in control of the situation. She’s the kind of effervescent dream girl that another movie might imagine as an unmotivated artist’s savoir and muse. Here, the “muse’’ is a selfabsorbed brat who leaves a path of destruc-

tion after every relationship.

Pacino and Gerwig, representing both the old and new guard of Hollywood, have a fun and easy chemistry when they’re not actually being intimate (those scenes are few and far between). But, the overlong film luxuriates on these two for far too long and at the expense of the much stronger supporting performances and cameos.

Wiest and Hedaya, horrified to learn of their daughter’s new relationship, share a few wonderful bits with Pacino, while Dylan Baker delivers what has to be one of the best Skype performances ever seen on film as a skeptical therapist.

But it’s Pacino’s film through and through and he breathes life into every moment, whether he’s taking a pratfall, telling a suburban housewife that he does not want to murder her husband, or struggling to find a comfortable sleeping position.

In fact, “The Humbling’’ exists because of Pacino, who acquired the rights after reading the book. Roth’s book, he said, seemed close to his own life in some ways.

Both Pacino and Levinson have had a number of stinkers in recent years. Shot on a shoestring budget over the course of 20 days, sometimes in Levinson’s own home, “The Humbling’’ is not quite a renaissance, but the scrappy effort sizzles with wit and energy more often than it falters.

12

12 Elbert County News

January 29, 2015

Historic homes explored in book Centennial author takes readers on tour of state

By Sonya Ellingboe

sellingboe@coloradocommunitymedia.com

“Historic Colorado Mansions and Castles” by Linda Womack has just been published. Courtesy photo

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“In the years following the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush in 1859, a steady stream of gold-seekers and entrepreneurs traveled to the region, most heading straight to Denver City and then to the mountain mining camps …” wrote Linda Womack.

Some made it big-time in mining or commerce and built huge homes to show off their prosperity.

Colorado historian Womack, of Centennial, has just published “Historic Colorado Mansions and Castles,” her account of 10 splendid homes built by some of Colorado’s early millionaires, which would make a good addition to the family library about exploring Colorado — next to the ones about trails, birds, rocks, reptiles and maps.

The homes she has chosen to profile are all open to visitors and she provides address and contact information for visits that will certainly enhance family and individual travel through Colorado, as we soak up stories of legendary folks and their ideas about high living.

She has interviewed present managers and owners and researched the stories of the original owners and builders — some amazing characters.

The homes are all on the Historic Register and lovingly maintained so we can learn of their many stories.

Leadville’s Healy House is first on Womack’s list, with an account of how the black sludge found everywhere actually contained silver. Assayer August R. Meyer offered shipping and banking services and urged a smelter to set up in busi-

ness. He married Emma Jane Hixon and soon began to build a house for her at the north end of Harrison Avenue, where the couple lived for three years, until he moved back to Missouri and former employers with Emma. The house went to Patrick A. and Ellen Healy Kelly, who operated a boardinghouse with her brother and next owner Daniel Healy.

The author also visited and wrote about the Byers-Evans House in Denver; Canon City’s Robison House; and the Molly Brown House, now a museum.

Nest in line is Castle Marne, the elegant Victorian B&B at Colfax and Race, where she learned a great amount of detail about several previous owners from the Peikers, who own and operate it now. Included is a beautiful round peacock window, created by Frank Watkins. His grandson, Phil Watkins of Watkins Stained Glass in Englewood, consulted and described the intricate window’s construction of Belgian glass. It, like many others, is covered in rhyolite stone, from a quarry in Castle Rock.

Castle Isabel in Douglas County comes next. It’s now called the Highlands Ranch Mansion and Womack does a nice job of describing the families, scandals and continual additions to the mansion, now beautifully restored and in almost daily use.

Her final chapters address the Gable House in Durango; Rosemont in Pueblo; Miramount Castle in Manitou Springs; and the Cheesman-Evans-Boettcher Mansion in Denver, aka the Governor’s Mansion.

At the end of each chapter, the author provides address, phone and a website address, so readers interested in history can visit and expand their understanding of the state’s checkered past.

The book is a large paperback, loaded with historic photographs, costing $21.99.

Healthy Living Expo enters fourth year Event focuses on how to work, play, live

By Mike DiFerdinando

mdiferdinando @coloradocommunitymedia.com Need some motivation or direction on how to deliver on those New Year’s resolutions?

At the 2015 Castle Rock Healthy Living Expo, speakers, vendors and industry leaders will provide advice on how to best work, play and live the Colorado lifestyle.

The event, which debuted in 2012 and is hosted by the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce, will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Douglas County Events Center, 500 Fairgrounds Drive.

“It’s family friendly,” said Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce Events Manager John Woodrick. “We have something for everyone, from health and nutrition information to fitness demonstrations.”

The day will begin with the Freeze Your Buns Off 5k race at 9 a.m., followed by a morning wake-up and

A kettlebell demonstration at the 2014 Castle Rock Healthy Living Expo. Courtesy photo stretching session.

Other activities include a Firefighter Challenge, a children’s fitness class and a Food for a Healthy Heart demonstration by Castle Rock Adventist executive chef Dan Skay.

The “Inside Experience” will feature exercise, sustainable living and

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beauty. The “Outdoor Experience” will include hiking, biking, camping, gardening and all things outdoors.

A “Health” category will highlight the Healthy Mind, Healthy Heart plan and other medical topics. The “Safety” category will include everything from healthy cars to healthy bodies.

“It’s not just about your health,” Woodrick said. “It’s about your family’s health and your pet’s health and all of the things that affect your quality of life.”

You’ll also be able to find information on how to take care of the people in your life who are struggling with age-related challenges. There will be health-care professionals on hand to talk about in-home care for the elderly and patients suffering from diminished cognitive function.

Also, there will be vendors providing health testing, like blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, and a blood center on hand all day taking donations.

The event is free to the public.

More information is available at www.ColoradoHealthyLivingExpo. com, www.castlerock.org, or by calling the chamber at 303-688-4597.

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13-Sports

SPORTS

January 29, 2015

Elbert County News 13

Taynin Abbott, left, and Paityn Hardison play for the Momentum Volleyball Club in Centennial. Both are committed to specializing in volleyball. Photos by Jim Benton

Joining the club

Specializing in one sport is becoming the path of choice for high school athletes, evident this girls basketball season

By Jim Benton

jbenton @coloradocommunitymedia.com Kelsey Ubben is among an increasingly rare breed of athlete.

The Douglas County High School senior plays volleyball for the Huskies and for her club team, the Colorado Volleyball Association. She also is playing basketball this winter for her school.

“My club coach is really flexible with me and my basketball schedule, which is awesome,” the 6-foot Ubben said. “The variety is awesome because you are using your body in different ways than you would in one sport, you get to know more people and it’s just more fun.”

But athletes like Ubben could be on the path to extinction. The era of single-sport specialization at the high school level has arrived. Intense year-round training in one sport, to the exclusion of others, has become the norm.

“The goal to become the next Olympian or more commonly, to obtain a college scholarship, motivates many parents to encourage their children to specialize in one sport at a young age,” states the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine.

In a position statement published in 2014, the organization said intense focus on one sport at an early age may increase the risk for overuse injuries and burnout.

Specialization is a trend that is particularly evident in girls sports, with basketball and volleyball players, among the most notable examples, often sticking to one pursuit or the other. This, despite the similar skills and physical attributes, like height, that are prized on both courts.

The Colorado High School Activities Association has taken notice, saying that girls basketball is none the better for it.

“There is still a concern not only in Colorado, but nationally, that many girls are specializing in volleyball rather than playing both sports,” CHSAA assistant commissioner Bert Borgmann wrote in an email to Colorado Community Media.

“I know the NCAA has expressed concern that the best athletes are no longer playing basketball, but focusing full time on volleyball. One of the reasons they have given is that volleyball clubs are demanding full-time participation from the athletes in their clubs, telling them they cannot play other sports. This is concerning

Douglas County High School senior Kelsey Ubben plays club volleyball and was a member of the Huskies volleyball team. She is currently playing basketball for Douglas County and admits not specializing in volleyball could hinder her options to play volleyball in college. to CHSAA, if true, because we believe that students should play multiple sports and have found that many athletes at the higher levels (Olympics, professional, NCAA) were multi-sport athletes. Additionally, from the non-athletic side, they are more rounded students with broader life experiences, and that can translate into a stronger adult.”

Going to the club

Club teams are never far from the conversation when it comes to specialization.

These teams offer training and activities most of the year. That helps an athlete develop the skills to have the opportunity to participate at the collegiate or sometimes professional level.

But are clubs hurting high school sports in general, and more specifically, girls basketball?

People are lining up on both sides of the debate.

“You can make the exact same argument on the flip side and say, `How many of the girls on the basketball team play volleyball?” said Rob Graham, head volleyball coach of Ponderosa’s Class 4A state runners-up and owner of the Elevation Volleyball Club. “Or, `How many girls on the soccer team play volleyball?’

“It’s club everything. It’s club soccer, club softball, club basketball. It’s not volleyball at all. It’s specialization.”

Numbers compiled by the National Federation of High School Associations do not show a decline in participation in girls basketball in Colorado. From 2008-14, the number of girls playing the sport in high school has been fairly steady, averaging a little more than 7,000 per year.

But in the south metro area, team rosters

show little crossover among volleyball and girls basketball, which could mean schools are seeing some of their best athletes stick to one sport. Among 17 south metro area schools in Colorado Community Media’s coverage area, there were only seven girls listed on both the fall varsity volleyball roster and this winter’s varsity basketball rosters.

Only four schools fielded four girls basketball teams (freshman, sophomore, junior varsity and varsity) and two struggled to put two teams on the floor.

So local coaches, statewide figures or not, do believe fewer girls are giving hoops a shot.

“Participation (in basketball) is for sure down, it’s down like crazy,” said Mountain Vista athletic director Pat McCabe. “I don’t think this is just related to basketball, but the establishment of clubs who make kids specialize and go out and put tremendous resources into playing at a super-young level or a super-young age. … Our mission isn’t the same as the clubs. We want kids to participate. We want to use all the resources that sports bring in order to help develop the kids.”

Chaparral girls basketball coach Tony Speights reported that the Wolverines have three teams with 30 players. He doesn’t mince words when it comes to the club controversy.

“The chief reason that participation is down is club sports, specifically volleyball,” he said. “These clubs monopolize all of these kids’ time, which doesn’t allow for other sports. I do readily admit that if you are an elite player then maybe (it is beneficial), but how many kids are elite?

“Now, that being said, if you look at a lot of female athletes playing at the pro level, they played multiple sports in high school.

I referenced volleyball, because I have lived in a couple of different states, and Colorado is the worst in terms of volleyball players not being able to play basketball.”

Special delivery

Some say specialization and club participation are required to rise in a sport’s ranks.

Ray Tannenbaum is a coach and director for the Momentum Volleyball Club in Centennial. Year-round participation in a sport is necessary to become “elite” in today’s competitive environment, largely because of the demands of each sport, he believes.

“I don’t think many of the players can truly handle more than one sport,” he said.

“I hear the parents of the kids that play soccer, basketball, volleyball, by the time they hit the eighth grade or freshman year in high school, most of these families are Specialization continues on Page 15

14

14 Elbert County News

January 29, 2015

Jumper embraces bright lights More than 15,000 animals, 350 vendors were displayed at National Western

By Mike DiFerdinando

mdiferdinando @coloradocommunitymedia.com For many, standing center stage at the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo in Denver can be a nerve-racking endeavor.

At the nation’s largest such event, the pressure can quickly mount for both professionals and amateurs.

But for 16-year-old horse jumper Cassie Marone of Highlands Ranch and her horse Denver, the spotlight transforms into a moment of calm.

“When you compete a lot, you get used to it,” Marone said Jan. 17. “You’re pretty comfortable when it’s just you and your horse in the ring. You don’t really think about everyone else.”

It isn’t Marone’s first rodeo. She has been competing and riding in competitions for years, including participating in the 2014 edition of the National Western.

She boards her horses and trains at Millbrook Equestrian in Parker, 7860 N. Flintwood Road.

“It’s great. We love coming here every year because it’s just a fun experience and it’s a cool show to be at,” Marone said. “I think it’s just cool to get into the big arenas and have all the big jumps and see all the different horses and people.”

Marone’s mother Donna said that she loves coming to the National Western because it gives her daughter a chance to see and compete against some of the nation’s top equestrian talent.

It’s also a bonding experience for mother and daughter.

“She’s a senior next year in high school, so we’ll probably come again to next years’. It’s her last year before she goes off to college,” Donna said.

The 16-day run of the National Western Stock Show is Colorado’s largest trade show with more than 350 vendors and 15,000 heads of livestock that will be

LEFT: Denver is the horse of Highlands Ranch Jumper Cassie Marone. RIGHT: Cowboys practice there rodeo skills in between shows at the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo Jan.17 at the Denver Coliseum. Photos by Mike DiFerdinando judged, groomed, bought and sold.

Horses, cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, llamas, bison, yaks, poultry and rabbits line the stockyard next to the horses.

They are sheered, combed, washed and blow-dried as they get ready for their chance to impress and possible turn a hefty profit for their owners.

“The craziest thing I’ve seen, I would say, the big longhorn that’s walking around,” Cassie Marone said. “My horse doesn’t like that guy. He’s afraid of it.”

Livestock shows have been held in the Denver area since 1899 but none were regularly scheduled events.

That changed in 1906 when the National Western Stock Show was held for the first time. The initial run was six days and an estimated 15,000 people attended.

For more information, visit nationalwestern.com.

Triniti Scott, center, of Burlington, is congratulated by Scott Schaake of Westmoreland, Kan., right, after the 11-year-old girl’s 1,360-pound steer named Playboy Bunny was selected as the reserve grand champion market beef at the Stock Show in Denver.

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Raphael Sung, MD Assistant Professor Cardiology

15

Elbert County News 15

January 29, 2015

Specialization Continued from Page 13

saying pick one.”

It costs an average of around $3,000 a year to play club volleyball, depending on the level and team involvement. So choosing the right club is important.

“There are some clubs around here that won’t let girls go to prom because they have a tournament the next day,” Tannenbaum said. “All of a sudden, these sports are taking away from them actually going out and being a kid. The one thing we do here at Momentum is we realize there has to be a balance. You have to have family life, an educational component, many want a spiritual component and the athletic component of it, and also just letting these kids be kids.”

Paityn Hardison and Taynin Abbott are two players for the Momentum club. Both are strictly volleyball players and say they like it that way.

“I found my sport,” said Hardison, a freshman who played on the Douglas County volleyball team. “I played basketball for half a season. It’s not my sport. I don’t like all the contact. Volleyball is more of a team sport and not an individual sport.”

Abbott is a freshman player at Faith Christian Academy in Arvada.

“When I was growing up, I played five different sports,” she said. “I started volleyball when I was in second grade and it was kind of my sport that I fell in love with. Basketball, softball, flag football, tennis and soccer

were just not for me.”

Variety is the spice?

Ubben, the multi-sport Douglas County High student, wants to play volleyball in college. She admits that not specializing in volleyball could hamper her options.

“It has hurt me already,” she said. “You get noticed so much more in club volleyball.”

But there is research to suggest that specialization is not a better path to competing at an elite level.

According to a Journal of Sports Sciences survey published in 2013, young athletes who competed in three sports at ages 11, 13 and 15 were significantly more likely to compete at an elite national level in their preferred sport than those who specialized in only one.

Dr. John P. DiFiori, team physician for UCLA football and basketball and president of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine from 2013-14, says specialization is rarely the way to go.

“With the exception of select sports such as gymnastics in which the elite competitors are very young, the best data we have would suggest that the odds of achieving elite levels with this method are exceedingly poor,” he said in a 2013 AMSSM news release. “In fact, some studies indicate that early specialization is less likely to result in success than participating in several sports as a youth, and then specializing at older ages.”

While specialization can be demanding on a teenager, so can being a multi-sport athlete.

Ponderosa sophomore Hunter Barker played JV volleyball, basketball, tennis and may go out for track this spring. She also plays volleyball for the Elevation Volleyball Club. She says there a lot of late nights staying up

doing homework.

But, she says, “Playing just one sport would just get old. It’s tiring and it’s good to take breaks.”

For some athletes, though, focusing on one sport and embracing the club game is the preferred route to getting on the radar of colleges.

Caitie Breaux is a junior volleyball player at Regis University in Denver. The Franktown athlete was a three-sport competitor in middle school before concentrating on volleyball at Ponderosa. She played for the Front Range Volleyball Club.

“I definitely think club is a great (way) for high school athletes to be recognized by colleges,” she said. “I know people that have never played club volleyball or club sports in general who have still ended up on college teams, but I definitely think playing club sports gives you more exposure to college athletics.”

Graham, the Ponderosa volleyball coach and club owner, is in favor of athletes playing different sports. His two young sons are playing three sports.

However, he knows slowing down the trend to specialize is a tall task.

“If you were to ask most coaches of any sport, we were probably multi-sport athletes growing up,” he said. “So we do know the importance of playing multiple sports.

We would all say specialization is hurting.

“Who is to blame? I don’t know if you can put your finger on that. I think it’s society, I think it’s parents and I think it’s players. We’re pushing kids to play sports at an earlier age. Parents are expecting them to get scholarships.”

SALOME’S STARS

crossword • sudoku

FOR THE WEEK OF JAN. 26, 2015

GALLERY OF GAMES

ARIES (Mar 21 to Apr 19) Mixed signals could create problems. Make sure your views are presented clearly, and insist others do the same. Don’t let an unanswered question go by without a full explanation.

TAURUS (Apr 20 to May 20) Financial pressures ease, allowing for more budget flexibility. But as the money-wise Bovine will appreciate, thrift still beats out splurging. Expect news from someone special.

& weekly horoscope

GEMINI (May 21 to Jun 20) Getting things done is what you do so well. But be careful not to overtax your energy reserves. Take time out to relax or to do something different to help keep them at optimum levels.

CANCER (Jun 21 to Jul 22) This is a good time to satisfy the Moon Child’s growing sense of wanderlust.

Choose a really special place to go to, with a very special person to share it all with you.

crossword • sudoku & weekly horoscope

GALLERY OF GAMES

LEO (Jul 23 to Aug 22) You love being in the spotlight.

But be careful it doesn’t blind you to the truth behind a seemingly wonderful opportunity. Look closer and you might be sadly surprised at what you find.

s enver.

VIRGO (Aug 23 to Sept 22) Isn’t it time to take a break from your hectic schedule? Sure it is. And the sooner you do, the sooner you can return fresh and more than ready to take on all those new projects.

LIBRA (Sept 23 to Oct 22) A recent family incident can help bring everyone closer, and there’s no one who’s better at making that happen than you. Accept (indeed, insist on!) help from others to get things off and running.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 to Nov 21) Long-held habits are often difficult to break. But the change from how you always did things to how you can do them now can be liberating. So, be flexible and give it a try.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 to Dec 21) Someone you met in your professional world last year and thought you would never hear from again could make a sudCHILD FIND den reappearance in your life, along with an interesting job offer.

East Central BOCES and/or its member Public Notice

districts would like to locate all 0 through CAPRICORN 21 year olds, who may have a disability.

(Dec 22 to Jan 19) Once again, you delight everyone by coming up with a solution for a The Colorado Department of Education problem that actually works. On another note, it’s not maintains a comprehensive child identification system consistent with Part Btooofearly to get started on those travel plans.

IDEA and ensures that each Local Education Agency (LEA), in collaboration with (Jan 20 to Feb 18) Before you go ahead a variety of community resources, AQUARIUS assumes the leadership role in establishing with finalizing your plans for your new project, check and maintaining a process in their comthem over to see if you can make some improvements munity for the purpose of locating, identifyif you can find ways to cut costs. ing and evaluating all children, birth toor21 years, who may have a disability and may be eligible for services and supports PISCES un(Feb 19 to Mar 20) The Fabulous Fish might der Part C or special education services have been out of the social swim for too long, and it’s under Part B of IDEA.

time you plunge back in. Reinforce your old friend-

Ages 0 through 5 year-old concerns ships and be open to starting new ones. should be directed to the following:

CHILD FIND

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

Public Notices Name Changes

Notice To Creditors

Government Legals

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notice

Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Karen K. Cochran, Deceased Case Number: 2014 PR 9

CHILD FIND

Public notice is given on November 18, 2014 that a Petition for a Change of Name of a minor child has been filed with the Elbert County Combined Court.

The petition requests that the name of Colter Lane Heltibridle be changed to Colter Lane Asbury Case No.: 14 C 135 By: Joleen Jenkins Court Judicial Assistant Legal Notice No: 23117 First Publication: January 15, 2015 Last Publication: January 29, 2015 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 the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before May 22, 2015 or the claims may be forever barred.

Robert James Cochran Personal Representative 5500 CR 114, Box 896 Elizabeth, Colorado 80107 Legal Notice No: 23130 First Publication: January 22, 2015 Last Publication: February 5, 2015 Publisher: Elbert County News

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

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. 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)

THIS WEEK: Your creative talents help bring • Cheyenne County (Cheyenne Wells BORN and Kit Carson Schools) beauty to the world and the people in it. On their behalf, • Lincoln County (Genoa-Hugo School) thank you.

• Yuma County (Idalia & Liberty Schools) • Kit Carson County (Bethune, Stratton, Arriba-Flagler & Hi-Plains Schools) © 2015 King Features Synd., Inc. • 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)

Notices

Public Notice

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.

Government Legals

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,

Please contact: Stacey Schillig, Child Find Coordinator - (719) 775-2342, ext. 133

To advertise your public notices call 303-566-4100

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.

Government Legals

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, Arriba-Flagler, HiPlains, 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 Legal Notice No.: 23131 First Publication: January 22, 2015 Last Publication: January 29, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News Public Notice NOTICE OF INTENT TO RELEASE FUNDS Notice to all interested parties, groups, persons, and agencies that on February 11, 2015, the Elbert County Board of

Public Notice

Government Legals NOTICE OF INTENT TO RELEASE FUNDS

Notice to all interested parties, groups, persons, and agencies that on February 11, 2015, the Elbert County Board of County Commissioners will make final payment to A-1 Chipseal Company for the chipseal on CR 166. The Elbert County Board of County Commissioners will accept objections to such release of funds. Objections must be submitted in writing on or before February 9, 2015, and shall be submitted to Elbert County Public Works Department, Attn: Lynne Eschbach, P.O. Box 116, Kiowa, Colorado, 80117. No objection received after February 9, 2015, will be considered by the Elbert County Board of County Commissioners.

ELBERT COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Ed Ehmann, County Manager Legal Notice No.: 23135 First Publication: January 29, 2015 Last Publication: January 29, 2015 Publisher: The Elbert County News

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16 Elbert County News

January 29, 2015