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VOLUME 44 • NUMBER 6 • JANUARY 1, 2026

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PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • January 1, 2026

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Legislative Kick-Off Breakfast Hosted by the Legislative Action Committee Thursday, Jan. 8th, 2026 7:15 - 9:00AM at Lone Tree Arts Center Learn about Colorado’s 2026 legislative agenda and listen to viewpoints from both parties on key issues. 2026 Legislative Preview from Both Republican and Democrat State Reps The Legislative Kick-off Breakfast, hosted by the Legislative Action Committee, is an outstanding annual event where attendees have the rare privilege of hearing directly from Colorado State legisla-

tors about what the State will address in the upcoming legislative session. It's Thursday, January 8th from 7:15-9am. While other Chambers host similar events that only feature their preferred political party, the South Metro Denver Chamber is a bi-partisan organization. This event offers our members an opportunity to hear viewpoints from legislators on both sides of the aisle, giving you a balanced perspective. We'll update this list if we confirm additional participants. This event has a limited capacity so sign up soon. FREE for members; $25 for non-members. www.bestchamber.com

Mark Baisely Republican - District 4

Lisa Frizell Republican - District 2

Anthony Hartsook Republican - District 44

John Carson Republican - District 30

Eliza Hamrick Democrat - District 61

Bob Marshall Democrat - District 43

Colorado State Legislators in Attendance: More May Join, Stay Tuned!

January 1, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3

Shake it Up and Start Over There is something sacred about the turning of a year. Even though January 1st is just another date on the calendar, it carries a quiet power, a collective pause, a breath between what has been and what could be. Time, for a brief moment, feels merciful. It draws a line and says, “You may begin again.” The new year offers us the gift of time separation. A new day, a new year, is not an eraser, because our past matters, but rather a distance. It allows yesterday to sit on the other side of midnight while today stands clean and open-handed. Like the iconic toy, the Etch A Sketch, is a metaphor for our lives. The screen may be crowded with lines we didn’t intend to draw; regrets, detours, disappointments, and dreams half-finished. The screen can feel full, messy, and overwhelming. And then we realize we have the power to shake it up and start over. Anyone who has ever played with an Etch A Sketch knows the magic. With a simple shake, the screen clears. The old lines vanish, not because they were meaningless, but because it is time to make room for something new. The toy does not judge what was drawn before. It simply offers a fresh surface and whispers, “Try again.” That is the blessing of a new year. Starting over does not mean we failed. It means we survived long enough to choose again. It means we learned, sometimes painfully, what doesn’t work, what drains us, what we can no longer carry forward. Starting over is an act of courage. It takes faith to believe that what lies ahead can be different, better, more aligned with who we are becoming, and for the longing of our heart. There is freedom in the reset. Freedom to forgive yourself for the year that did not go as planned. Freedom to release expectations that were never yours to carry. Freedom to stop rehearsing old conversations and start imagining new possibilities. When time separates one chapter from the next, it gives us permission to loosen our grip on what was and reach for what might be. The new year does not demand perfection. It invites intention. It does not require grand resolutions or dramatic reinvention. Sometimes start-

ing over means quieter choices: choosing peace over proving a point, consistency over intensity, and honesty over comfort. Sometimes it’s as simple and profound as deciding not to give up on yourself. So, shake the Etch A Sketch and start over. Shake off the shame that told you it was too late. Shake off the fear that says you’ve missed your chance. Shake off the belief that your story is already written. The screen before you in the new year is not empty; it is full of possi-

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C NVERSATIONS ARAPAHOE COUNTY

HAPPY NEW YEAR All County offices will be closed Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2026 in observance of the New Year’s holiday.

Three Ways to Find Help Meeting Basic Needs When challenges arise—whether it’s putting food on the table, getting help with child care or health care, or meeting other basic needs—it can feel difficult to know where to start. But there are resources that can help you get back on your feet. Learn more at arapahoeco.gov/basicneeds

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Visit arapahoegov.com/osmasterplan to read the DIVE summary report.

WEEK OF DEC. 29

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • January 1, 2026

The Villager

Office: 22095 E. Chestnut Place, Aurora 80016 • (303) 773-8313 A legal newspaper of general circulation in Arapahoe County, Colorado. (USPS 431-010) Published weekly by The Villager Publishing Co., Inc. 22095 E. Chestnut Place,

ership. He wanted me to have saved some clippings of acthe memento from his days quaintances and memories in Craig. I escorted his high of friendships made with Christmas cards from school girlfriend B.J. Trouth Gerri and I and The Villagfriends and relatives always to Colorado A&M in my car er newspaper…we’ve met make me happy. I’ve lost to start our freshman year. a lot of wonderful people many friends over the past During our sophomore year during our career with this few years, one of the best the school became Colorado newspaper. Here are a few was my pal Mort Marks who State University in memories of departed I spoke with almost every 1956. B.J. and Jerry friends: “Chet” Tarrant day. We hashed over politics, drifted apart and she who was a wonderfootball, the stock market married a university ful neighbor who I and our kids. Recently I’ve professor and now would breakfast with heard from two of my Craig resides in Florida. and share an occahigh school classmates. Bill We all keep in touch. sional beverage. We Conway was my best friend One of the finBY BOB SWEENEY cherished our good who I shared my high school est past Christmas neighbor who was a PUBLISHER days with. He graduated cards ever received delight with his many from BYU, joined the LDS was from U.S. Senator Bill jokes. Another friend to be Church, and became a colArmstrong with a photo of admired was fellow “Aggie” lege professor in Rexburg, his entire family. Bill never Eddie Robinson. He was a Idaho. My class valedictorian forgot his friends and his son legendary “milkman” with Jerry Stamps graduated from Wil and wife Kristy still car- his brother Dick who owned CU and became a United ry on Bill’s legends as a great and operated Robinson Dairy Airline pilot. He recently leader and savior of Colofor decades. At one time The fell and broke his neck but rado Christian University, Jewish News related Robinis recovering at his home in now ultra successful. Wil is son Dairy delivered 180,000 Phoenix. He recently sent chairman of the CCU board. half-pints of milk to schools me his father’s car key chain I missed Wil’s recent office every day. Both of these men with the inscription “Watson party but hope to see him in were honored last February Motor Company.” Seems his 2026. receiving the coveted “Citfather purchased a new Ford IN LOOKING BACK izens of The West” Award. car from Mildred Watson from newspaper clippings Eddie was an avid Villiager newspaper reader, and I who ran the local Ford deal- and The Denver Post I’ve

Looking Back Remembering Friends

would often meet and greet him at social events. He was named “The Villager Man of The Year” in 1997. Another notable was “Robby” Norwood, a local Republican who served as a Regent at The University of Colorado. He was a DU graduate and always had a smile on his face. His obituary from his family quotes Abrahan Lincoln, “And in the end, it’s not the years in a life, it is the life in the years.” Robby’s life is a testament to resilience, dedication and love. And we have very fond memories of DTC titans, John Madden Jr. and Buz Koelbel who were major developers and great citizens. They had great life in their years! It is a pleasure and honor to meet many interesting citizens with so many different interests and occupations. America is a great land of opportunity, and many successful people start at the bottom and rise to the top with perseverance and very hard work known as “Sweat Equity.” Happy New Year!

Aurora 80016. Available for home or office delivery by U.S. Mail for $78 per year. Single copies available for $2 per issue. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID IN GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO. 80112 AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. A Colorado Statutory Publication CRS (197324-70 et al). USPS # 431010 ISSN 1539-6274 (Print) ISSN 2993-7280 (Online) Postmaster: Send address changes to The Villager, 22095 E. Chestnut Place, Aurora 80016 Deadlines: Display Advertising, Legal Notices, press releases, letters to the editor, 4:00 p.m. Friday. Classified Advertising, noon Monday.

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Reverend Martin Niemoller “In Germany, the Nazis first came for the communists and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a communist. Then they came for the Jews and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist. Then they came for the Catholics and I didn’t speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me and by that time there was no one left to speak for me!”

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QUOTE of the WEEK QUOTE of the WEEK Old people are

scary. And I have to face it. I am old and I am scary. – Maggie Smith

January 1, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

G.V. Holiday Tree Lighting Lighting The Mule Train Lines is a regular feature at GV’s holiday party.

This sport is called contact juggling

Gideon Varnell, 4, and James Varnell, 6, told Santa their secret wishes for Christmas.

Meg and Matt Iritani, and Patra Watana, are all local dentists. James Iritani, 1, is not a dentist….yet!

Original Dickens Carolers

These real reindeer were visiting from near Payton, Colorado. Karen Bonbright is with Amy Bergan and Greta Bergan, 2

After they visited the face-painting booth, sisters Ava Wise, 8, and Ella Wise, 7, sat down with the oversized stuffed bear. The Story Teller Ice Cave had the children enthralled.

They even juggle with knives while balancing on curved metal surfaces. Dad Anasheh Afghani (right) brought daughter Lily 1 ½ and his sister Arash Afghani (left) to see the holiday lights

Even teenagers think this event is fun!

Santa’s Glacier appeared recreated outside GV Photos by Freda Miklin City Council chambers.

GV City Council came to celebrate: From left to right, Paul Wiesner, Bob Doyle, Jay Schneiderman, Katrin Mezger, Donna Johnston, Ann Nelson, Libby Barnacle, and Mayor George Lantz

PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • January 1, 2026

4th Generation Barbers Semion is the modern, affordable barbershop for men, women and children who want a great look – and a great experience in the chair. From the moment you walk through the door, our goal is to make you feel welcome and appreciated. Let the upbeat music and laid-back atmosphere wash away your cares and restore your energy. Our talented and friendly barbers and stylists are ready to deliver the personal style you crave at an exceptional value. www.semionbarbershop.com • Greenwood Village Location: 5910 S. University Blvd • (720) 531-3998

NOW OPEN IN GREENWOOD VILLAGE ALL PRESCRIPTIONS WELCOME • Next to Trader Joe’s Eye exams available • Same-day glasses • Insurance accepted • Glasses/Sunglasses for the whole family 5910 S. University Blvd. Greenwood Village • www.eyewearcollection.com • 303-228-5485

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VALENTINE’S DAY

COOKING AT HOME

Skip the crowds and celebrate Valentine’s with a delicious, home-cooked meal! Monica of Kadillak Kitchens will present simple dinner ideas to make your evening special.

Wednesday, February 11, 6:30 pm

For adults. To reserve your spot, visit arapahoelibraries.org/events.

January 1, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

VOA is hosted by Kit’s Boutique in Greenwood Village

Volunteers of America (VOA) was treated to an evening of luxury at the upscale consignment boutique founded by Kit Demko. Wine and appetizers complemented the browsing and buying at the beautifully merchandised store that projects the feeling of brand new merchandise rather than previously loved high-end labels.

Michael and Kit Demko at the upscale consignment boutique that bears her name

Sipping and shopping at fashionable fundraiser

FLEURISH

Kathryn Kaiser, Kit Demko, Faustine Curry (VOA) and Lynn Hubert

VOA’s Michael James and Gerry Rasel with Vivian Mount

Photos by Scottie Iverson

Cherry Hills Village Annual Winter Celebration drew crowds for community spirit Cherry Hills Village Mayor Katy Brown welcomed attendees and Santa Claus

The City of Cherry Hills Village staff choreographed an exceptional winter celebration for hundreds with a variety of activities, refreshments, fire pits for warming, visit from Santa in his own living room set, Cherry Hills Village Art Commissioners Julie Mirr, Co-Chairs Ben Ortiz-Hill Clydesdaledrawn hayrides and Chrissy Fedorowicz, Dave Schmidt and Scottie Iverson in front of the popular unicorn (brainchild of Ortiz-Hill) enthusiastically painted by nearly and more! every child who attended and named him Mr. Sparkles

Photos by Scottie Iverson

Cherry Hills Village Art Commissioner Cate Darch with her son Henry look through the sculpture “Gusto” by artist Gilberto Romero

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • January 1, 2026

January 1, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

fo l l ow F R E DA BY FREDA MIKLIN

I am passionate about government and giving our readers straightforward information that will help them make informed choices when they vote. I am also a licensed C.P.A. and former Greenwood Village City Council member. Dr. Jerry Miklin and I are the parents of five young adults, including two sets of twins, all of whom graduated from Cherry Creek High School and college. I am a 9-time Colo. Press Assn. award winner. If you have any questions about local or state politics or government, or something you want to share, email me at fmiklin.villager@gmail.com.

Three Democrats are left in the race to challenge U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans in CD8 in November Colorado’s 8th Congressional District was formed after the 2020 U.S. Census, which determined that a new district was warranted, based on the growth in population during the prior decade. That was also after the state’s Independent Redistricting Commission began its work. The IRC was formed after a statewide vote of the citizens in 2018, which was supported by the chairs of both major political parties, to prevent gerrymandering by either political party, going forward. Unsurprisingly, voter registration in the new 8th CD was effectively evenly split between Democrats and Republicans. The first election in CD 8, which extends from the northern suburbs of Denver, to Greeley, in November 2022, saw then-Democratic State Rep. Yadira Caravejo beat then-Republican State Rep. (now State Senator and candidate for the GOP nomination for Colorado governor in 2026) Barbara Kirkmeyer by less than one percentage point. Two years later, first term Republican State Rep. Gabe Evans unseated Caraveo by

2,596 votes out of 330,792 cast, or 0.8%. While there are rumblings that sitting Members of Congress in several other Colorado CDs could be at risk of losing their seats in 2026, if there happens to be a wave election or something else unexpected occurs, for now, Evans has the distinction of having been named the most vulnerable incumbent in the U.S. House of Representatives by the National Journal in its list of 2026 battleground seats released last summer. The history of the voting in CD8, long before the pronouncement by the National Journal, drew a number of Democrats to declare that they planned to seek the nomination of their party in the June 30, 2026 primary to challenge Evans in the November 3, 2026 general election. Following the earlier withdrawals in that race of the first person to hold that congressional seat, Yadira Caraveo, in September 2025, and former state teachers’ union president Amie BacaOehlert, in October 2025, current State Treasurer Dave

Appropriations Committee but announced on December 7 that she is resigning her seat in the State House to devote her full-time energy to running for the Democratic nomination to unseat Evans. Also, still in the race for the Democratic nomination to challenge Evans is State Rep. Manny Rutinel, a former economist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in upstate New York, who also holds a law degree from Yale Law School. Rutinel entered the State House via an appointment by a vacancy committee in October 2023 and announced his candidacy for the nomination to run against Evans on January 27, 2025. Military veteran Evan Munsing, who has not held previous political office, is also still vying for the Democratic nomination for CD8. According to federal campaign finance records we reviewed, as of September 30, 2025, Evans had $1.9 million in available funds on hand, Bird had $560,000, Rutinel had $1 million, and Munsing had $174,000.

1st term Member of Congress Gabe Evans

State Rep. Shannon Bird

State Rep. Manny Rutinel

Evan Munsing

Young, who is term-limited, announced he, too, was leaving the race, on December 23. That leaves Evans with three Democratic opponents. The most well-known is

State Rep. Shannon Bird, who was first elected to the legislature in 2018 and has served on the Joint Budget Committee and the House Finance Committee. She is the current vice-chair of the

Incumbent State Rep. Chad Clifford told supporters he is off and running for re-election to the general assembly next November.

Littleton Public Schools Board of Education President Chérie Garcia-Kuper, LPS School Board Member Joan Anderssen, and State Rep. Meg Froelich

GV State Rep. Chad Clifford is running for reelection to the legislature At a gathering for friends and supporters at the Varsity Inn at 7500 S. University Blvd in Centennial on December 15, HD37 State Rep. Chad Clifford announced he will be a candidate for re-election to his current post on November 3, 2026. He presently has no an-

nounced competition in either the Democratic primary on June 30, or the general election, but it is very early. Clifford told the crowd, “I have had a blast over the past few years, being engaged in big conversations and getting things done for my constituents. I like massive technical bills, I like things that are hard to do... It has been phenomenal to be able to work for our district and for you… I am cautiously optimistic about next year’s legislative session and we’re gearCU Regent Ilana Spiegel and Centennial ing up for that, Mayor-elect Christine Sweetland

so we’re back in the office every day, working.” The Villager spoke to Steve Hemelstrand, a constituent of Clifford’s, who came to lend his support. He told us that he was there because Rep. Clifford had been instrumental in helping his family get his handicapped son recertified for Medicaid when his eligibility was withdrawn. Hemelstrand’s son has Downs Syndrome and cannot live on his own. Medcaid benefits are extremely important for him.

Centennial City Council Member-elect Ashish Vaidya, Centennial City Council Member Amy Tharp, and Arapahoe County Assessor P.K. Kaiser Photos by Freda Miklin

fo l l ow F R E DA State Supreme Court rule that cities cannot impose harsher penalties for low-level infractions than are prescribed under state law can cause havoc for cities

n December 22, the Colorado Supreme Court handed down a ruling in the combined case of two plaintiffs, Aleah Camp, convicted of theft of under $500 (the amount was actually under $300) in Westminster Municipal Court and Danielle Simons, convicted of motor vehicle trespass in Aurora Municipal Court. Both individuals claimed that the crimes for which they were convicted carried harsher penalties under the respective cities’ municipal codes than they did under state law for the same conduct. Ms. Simons asserted to the Supreme Court that, under state law, a conviction for the behavior with which she was convicted carries a potential $300 fine and possible ten days incarceration, whereas the City of Aurora Municipal Code provides up to a $2,650 fine, along with up to 374 days’ imprisonment, for the same conduct. This case was brought before Camp and Simons were sentenced in municipal court. The Supreme Court found for the plaintiff-offenders, holding that municipalities cannot impose penalties that exceed those imposed by the state for the same conduct. It sent their cases back to municipal court for sentencing within state guidelines. In Colorado, home rule cities have historically had the right to charge and prosecute non-felony offenses committed in their borders via municipal ordinances adjudicated in municipal courts. That included the right to set the penalties, within limits, for these offenses. In many cases, there are crimes in municipal codes that also exist in state law. When a person is arrested for committing such

judge for FTA. In the same nine-month period of 2024, that number of bench warrants for FTA jumped 116% to 2,402. Haas-Davidson also reported that she had reached out to other cities, including Aurora, Pueblo, and Delta, who reported experiencing similar trends. To demonstrate the impact of HB19-1225 No Monetary Bail for Certain Low-Level Offenses, HaasDavidson told the council about two real cases in the GV Municipal Court. In one, a 43-year-old woman had been arrested in GV in August 2022, “charged with trespassing and having an outstanding warrant. She failed to appear on her first date in December 2022. A bench warrant was issued with a $500 personal recognizance (PR) bond, which means nothing, because (if the defendant claims she is unable to pay the $500, the response is) ‘OK, I’ll let you go.’ She was next arrested by the City of Littleton on January 2, 2023, and given a PR bond. Her second appearance date was supposed to be January 18, 2023. She still has not appeared. The day before, on January 17, 2023, she (allegedly) went into Target and stole $357 worth of merchandise, getting arrested by our police officers. That’s our second case. She has now failed to appear nine times on one case, FTA’d twice before she got arrested on the second one, seven times on the other one. That’s 16 bench warrants that have had to be processed by our municipal court clerk for one person…This person, when we arrested her, she had, on her record, 17 felonies, 11 FTAs, a couple of Failures to Comply, and had served two years in the Department of Corrections (state prison).

Despite all that, and a history of failing to appear, she has been given PR bond (no cash bail required) after PR bond after PR bond, every time she’s contacted (by police). And she’s contacted all the time. It’s why she’s got 16 bench warrants, just in Greenwood Village. And that’s just one person.” She continued, “It’s a huge taxpayer burden, just processing this paperwork. And (even if) this person isn’t going to change…she’s a career criminal, but not everybody is. (Some are) drug addicts, but they’re never going to get treatment on their own. There is so much opioid money out there and so many programs, but until they are held, and held accountable, they are not going to get treatment. So, there’s no mental health treatment, there’s no drug treatment. It’s just a huge administrative burden on everybody else.” Haas-Davidson explained, “There’s good that can come out of holding people just a little longer if they can’t pay…When there are no consequences for petty crime, then they commit more crimes,” adding that, most often, the people who do show up to municipal court for petty crimes are ones that have been charged with felonies in state court, and part of their sentence is they must take care of their lesser offenses. She concluded, “There are consequences for no consequences. It is wreaking havoc in the grocery stores, where we’ve all seen that everybody’s detergent is locked up now.” She also pointed to the additional cost to cities like GV, which has needed to add another administrative clerk position to its municipal court to process all the repetitive

paperwork for repeat FTA offenders, as well as the police, who arrest the same people over and over again because they have no fear of being held accountable. The city attorney shared another case with the council about a mother whose daughter had been arrested and who had a drug problem. The mother, she said, had come to GV Municipal Court on her daughter’s court date, prepared to arrange and pay for the daughter to get drug treatment, but the daughter failed to appear, leaving the mother distraught. The Villager reached out to GV State Rep. Chad Clifford, who was at this study session, listening carefully. Clifford often attends GV City Council meetings and study sessions without announcing his presence, just to listen and learn about the issues the city is facing. He told us he will explain to us, in detail, how he hopes to help the city deal with this problem. We will report back to our readers what we learn. We also reached out to Greenwood Village and Aurora to get their reactions to the December 22 Supreme Court ruling. Both said they are assessing its impact and will report back to their city councils regarding necessary changes to their municipal codes to ensure compliance. Aurora City Attorney Pete Schulte also said, “We appreciate the court’s efforts. Its decision, however, begs the question of whether Colorado municipalities should continue to prosecute criminal offenses in their municipal courts when they become de facto extensions of state and county courts at a cost to municipal taxpayers without reimbursement.”

Investigators search for four suspects in $120K theft from Arapahoe County Fairgrounds

hoe County Event Center, removed television screens, tools and two white pick-up trucks and fled the scene. The trucks are a white Ford F250 and a white Ford ES250 with Colorado license plates AIP-025 and QTL363. Both trucks have red Arapahoe County logos on the doors. The trucks were last seen near 6th Avenue and Po-

tomac Street in the City of Aurora. Contact your local law enforcement if you see either truck. If caught, the suspects are facing charges of theft, burglary and criminal mischief. If you think you have any information about the suspects or this crime, please contact our Investigations Tipline at 720-874-8477. You can remain anonymous.

BY ANDERS NELSON, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER OF THE ARAPAHOE COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Sheriff Investigators are searching for four masked

a crime, he/she may be cited under state or municipal law. In 2021, the state legislature passed SB21-271 Misdemeanor Reform Act. It reclassified non-felony offenses from three levels of misdemeanors and two levels of petty offenses to two levels of misdemeanors and one level of petty offenses. More importantly, it significantly reduced penalties for numerous offenses in both categories. Cities did not generally follow suit, resulting in some municipal penalties suddenly being harsher than state penalties for the same infractions. Predictably, low level offenders prosecuted under some municipal codes found themselves to be the potential recipients of higher fines and/or longer periods of incarceration than they would have been subject to, had they been charged and adjudicated in state court. That is the genesis of this state Supreme Court case Also, in 2019, the general assembly passed HB191225 No Monetary Bail for Certain Low-Level Offenses, which, as its title infers, requires individuals charged with low-level misdemeanors and petty offenses to be released without requiring them to post cash bail, including if bail is imposed and the party charged states he/she is unable to pay it. Failure to Appear in court (FTA), including municipal court, is such a crime. Over a year ago, on October 21, 2024, at a study session of the Greenwood Village City Council, GV City Attorney Tonya HaasDavidson reported to the council that GV had seen a rash increase in FTAs, sharing that from January-September 2022, 1,110 bench warrants had been issued by the GV Municipal Court

burglary suspects who stole more than $120,000 in trucks and tools from the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds at 25690 E. Quincy Ave in Aurora.

The burglary happened on December 23, 2025, around 9:56 p.m. Investigators say four suspects entered the maintenance shop and Arapa-

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • January 1, 2026

Photos by Susan Sweeney Lanam

The League’s mission is to empower women to become civic leaders and impactful community volunteers. Proceeds also support community work to help disrupt the cycle of systemic poverty for women and families in Denver. To learn more about becoming a member, please visit JLD.org.

January 1, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

Oh what fun it is... to Shop!

he Junior League of Denver hosted its 46th annual Mile High Holiday Mart, November 14-16, at Gates Field House on the DU campus. During the unseasonably warm November weekend, shoppers eagerly explored 126 vendor booths, including 50 first-time participants, 103 local and 105 women-owned businesses at Gates Field House on the DU campus.

Left to right: Committee members Caitlin McCann, Brittany Eroen, Caryne Mesquita, Kristen Claxon, Darcy Ripple, Madeline Stull, Jodi Padilla, Jessica Fernandez

A beloved Denver holiday tradition, this three-day event is a remarkable undertaking that highlights the dedication and resilience of the committee members who bring it to life. A volunteer-run holiday shopping experience is truly unique, and it’s something the League is incredibly proud of year after year! “Holiday Mart is a cherished tradition that brings our community together to celebrate the season and support local businesses,” said Kristen Claxon, Holiday Mart Co-Chair.

Left to right: President Emily Thibault, Caryne Mesquita, Fundraising VP Kristina Zwettler

A heartfelt thank you goes out to 2025 Mile High Holiday Mart CoChairs, Kristen Claxon and Caryne Mesquita, whose hard work helped make this year’s Holiday Mart a tremendous success. The League’s mission is to empower women to become civic leaders and impactful community volunteers. Proceeds also support community work to help disrupt the cycle of systemic poverty for women and families in Denver. To learn more about becoming a member, please visit JLD.org.

Left to right: Committee members Calley Wright Renz, Gayle Gahagan, Hannah Caisse

PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • January 1, 2026

December 18, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 10

INTERESTINGPLACES INTERESTING PLACES New Year’s – Wellness and a Beach

As another Denver December crept in with icy mornings and post-holiday fatigue, Ellen and I faced a question: celebrate the New Year in the cold, or escape somewhere warm and healthy? We chose both, and it turned out to be the perfect combination. First stop was Canyon Ranch, a luxury wellness resort and spa in Tucson, Arizona. Rated the number one wellness resort in the Americas by the Michelin Guide, it didn’t disappoint. Set in the stunning Sonoran Desert, Canyon Ranch feels like college orientation meets summer camp for adults - picking from hikes, yoga, cooking classes, and 200 different spa treatments to fill the day. The package included accommodations, three healthy and delicious meals daily, and endless options for self-improvement. The wise traveler plans activities before arriving. We did not. Instead, we frantically juggled massages and fitness classes into a workable schedule, discovering that “rest” is not an official activity category and that booking massages counts as cardio when you’re racing to your next appointment. We each sampled a variety of massages, learned a few new

The beautiful Sonoran Desert

wellness tricks, and even took an early-morning hike through a quiet desert canyon. The scenery was so beautiful we almost forgot it was exercise. Evenings brought cool desert air, deep sleep, and healthy meals so flavorful we considered hiring the chef to come home with us. Who knew kale could taste this good when cooked by someone else? We rang in the New Year with a delightful and healthy multicourse dinner, although we were asleep well before midnight in order to keep up with our busy activity schedule. Canyon Ranch isn’t cheap, but it’s worth every penny.

Instead of lounging by a pool or playing golf, you’ll focus entirely on your health and well-being. For a long weekend, it’s a fantastic getaway - close to Denver, easy to reach, and guaranteed to start the new year on

a healthy note. Feeling newly virtuous after all that wellness, we decided to balance things out with a beach, some rum, and exactly zero yoga mats. So we headed to Roatán, a long, skinny island in the Caribbean Sea that’s part of Honduras. Direct flights are limited, so we connected through Houston, but there are nonstops from Denver for future trips - good to know for next time. Roatán sits atop the world’s second-largest coral reef, so snorkeling and diving are right off the beach. In the 17th century, it was a pirate hideout. Today it’s mostly sunburned tourists and scuba

IN THE EYES OF BRIAN Bio Retinal specialist, writer, Greenwood Village resident email: joonbug@mac.com

hotel shuttle took us there for dinner a couple of nights, where we ate fresh seafood with our toes in the sand. Life doesn’t get much better than that. We combined two mini vacations into one week, but either would be a wonderful standalone getaway for three or four days. And what a contrast. From the dry Arizona desert to the humid Caribbean coast, from green smoothies to piña coladas.

Ellen showing fine archery form at Canyon Ranch

enthusiasts. We stayed at the Kimpton Hotel in West Bay, a relaxed beachfront spot with a large pool, excellent service, and blessedly warm air, a refreshing change from Colorado’s cold, dry winter. Somehow, country western music is more popular here than Caribbean or calypso. Who knew Hank Williams would upstage Bob Marley in the tropics? West Bay, where we stayed, is quieter and ideal for relaxation, while nearby West End offers lively beachfront restaurants and bars. A quick

Sitting in a BIG chair in Roatan

January 1, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

More yet to be written about soccer stadium Denver City Council approves Summit women’s soccer stadium plan Denver will fund land for a women’s soccer stadium on the old Gates Rubber Factory lot Those headlines help tell the developing story of Denver’s soon-tobe newest, professional sports team, Denver Summit FC. The expansion franchise in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) was awarded to a group headed by financial executive Rob Cohen last January 30. It will begin play in February., with its regular-season home debut at Empower Field at Mile High on March 28. The expansion fee was reported to be $110 million. Three days before Christmas, Denver City Council voted 10-3 in favor of committing $70 million to construction of a 14,500-seat soccer-specific stadium and surrounding infrastructure on vacant land between Broadway and Santa Fe, near I25 and Broadway. The site is part of the former Gates Rubber Company property that has sat idle for years. “This is a monumental day for South Broadway, for women’s soccer and for women’s sports, and for Denver as a whole,” gushed Denver Mayor Mike Johnston in a statement issued after the vote. That may be, but there are nonbelievers out there. “I hope, in 20 years from now, that . . . this is not a regret,” said city council president Amanda Sandoval, who voted for approval despite her reservations. Councilwoman Sara Parady—one of three who voted against approval— noted that the City and County of Denver will retain ownership of the land on which the stadium will be built. “We’re letting them build this private stadium on land that will be owned by a public entity, which means they will not have to pay property taxes ever on that land.” Noting that funding for the stadium project is coming from interest earned from the bond program Denver voters approved in 2017, several councilmembers expressed concerns. “I believe it is important to ensure that we are keeping good practices regarding those bondholders,” said Shontel Lewis, another ‘no’ vote, “and I cannot say that

I feel that way here.” Count me among those who aren’t yet convinced. I concede that I’m not a soccer buff. So, are my doubts because I don’t recognize how many avid soccer fans there are, or is it because there are better uses for $70 million when Denver is facing a budget shortfall more than three times that? Denver Summit FC has said that it wants its own stadium to avoid paying rent to use another site, which will help its financial viability. And the team said in September it had already received 15,000 season ticket deposits, which, if that translates to actual attendance, compares favorably with average turnout for games played by the Colorado Rapids men’s soccer team of the Major League Soccer (MLS) over the past few seasons. Denver, meanwhile, is hoping that a women’s soccer stadium will be the catalyst that revitalizes a stretch of South Broadway that has languished for decades. My question: Is women’s soccer a long-term attraction, or will its game attendance wane as the novelty wears off? Two other headlines from 2025 represent another, admittedly promising part of this story: Denver NWSL breaks ground on temporary stadium in Centennial Temporary home for women’s pro soccer team will become permanent

pitch for Cherry Creek schools These appeared in early June and announced a partnership between Denver Summit FC and the City of Centennial to build a complex at South Potomac Street and East Fremont Avenue., and an agreement with Cherry Creek Schools with the potential for longterm benefits for its students. “We’re proud to invest in world-class facilities that will support our athletes, engage students, enhance education, and leave a lasting impact on our community and the region,” Rob Cohen said at the time. The 43-acre site will house a 12,000-seat stadium, to be used by Summit FC this year and next until the Denver site is completed for the 2028 season then converted to a 4,000-seat venue for interscholastic competition, along with a 20,000-square foot training facility. The agreement with the Cherry Creek School District also provides for a variety of benefits, including internships with the pro soccer team, 500 game tickets per season and an annual $100,000 contribution by Summit FC to the Cherry Creek Schools Foundation. Here’s hoping there’s never a headline that reads: Dreams lost as women’s pro soccer team folds ________________ Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at dennydress man@comcast.net.

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PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • January 1, 2026

Centennial Airport Announces Flight Schools’ Order of Colorado’s First All-Electric Training Aircraft; a First-in-the-Nation Fleet Purchase Centennial Airport shared that Centennial Flyers, a flight school based at the airport, has confirmed an order for six all-electric training aircraft e-powered by H55, a Swiss electric propulsion systems manufacturer. Centennial Flyers will be the first operator in Colorado, and H55’s first fleet customer in the United States, to incorporate this next-generation aircraft into their training program. “Centennial Flyers is proud to bring electric flight to Colorado, pioneering and leading the transition to cleaner and quieter aircraft. Our members will be flying

the most technologically advanced trainer in the world, and we are committed to establishing Centennial Airport as the home of Colorado’s next generation of flight.” said Scott H Smith, President of Centennial Flyers. This announcement follows Centennial Flyers’ signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) in July during H55’s “Across America” tour stop at Centennial Airport, where the airport served as Colorado’s exclusive host for the world’s first certified electric trainer aircraft, the B23 Energic. During that visit, the aircraft also underwent official noise

Winner in Best Public Notice Section Colorado Press Association Better Newspaper Contest

2021 • 2022 • 2023 • 2024

COURTS DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE, STATE OF COLORADO 7325 South Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 303-649-6355 Telephone PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of: KENZO ELI ALEMY-WILLIAMS, Child, and concerning, SHIRLEY ALEMY AND KEITH WILLIAMS, Respondents. Alison Bettenberg, Esq. #33912 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the People 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 Tel: 303-636-1346 Fax: 303-636-1889 Case No: 25JV214 Division: 22 NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING JOHN DOE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Default Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding JOHN DOE is set on March 2, 2026, at 10:45 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and adopt the prepared treatment plan for you in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code, or to determine that there is no appropriate treatment plan. The Arapahoe County District Court is holding hearings via Cisco WebEx

Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/ or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link: •https://judicial.webex.com/meet/D18ARAP-Div22 •Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom. •Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below. •If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720650-7664. When prompted enter Access code: 2594 887 9073 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed). If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin. Date: December 16, 2025 Alison Bettenberg, Esq., Reg. #33912 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner Published in The Villager Published: January 1, 2026 Legal # 31129 ________________________

Misc. PUBLIC NOTICE The 2025 annual financial report for the Cibrowski Family Foundation is available for Public Inspection during regular business hours from today’s date through June 30, 2026 at the Office of Deon E Fitch, Chairman, Cibrowski Family Foundation, 6947 S Madison Way, Centennial, CO 80122. 303-7409497, 1-720-815-3426 (Fax). Effective as of January 1, 2026, after thirty-two years, the Foundation will close and no longer offer its engineering and chemistry scholarships to students attending the University of Denver and the Colorado School of Mines. Published in The Villager Published: January 1, 2026 Legal # 31130 ________________________

measurement tests at Centennial Airport – demonstrating noise levels so low that several of the airport’s monitoring stations did not register the aircraft’s sound above ambient levels.

commitment creates exactly the kind of forward-looking environment needed for electric aviation to thrive,” said Kristen Jurn, H55 Sales Manager North America. “We are thrilled and also proud to

“The quiet nature of electric flight will have a positive impact on the communities surrounding our airport, and we’re proud to see sustainable aviation technology taking root right here at Centennial.”

Centennial Flyers expects to receive its first two B23 Energic aircraft in 2027, followed by the remaining four in 2028 (delivery dates subject to change). “The Centennial Airport Authority’s leadership in advancing clean, quiet aviation is paving the way for a new era of sustainable flight. Their

support Centennial Flyers, the first U.S. fleet customer of H55, as they adopt six H55-powered B23 Energic aircraft. This milestone strengthens next-generation pilot training, enhances community compatibility, and demonstrates the real-world benefits of electric operations.”

said Michael Fronapfel, Executive Director of Centennial Airport. Centennial Airport remains committed to supporting industry progress toward quieter, cleaner, and more efficient flight technologies through collaboration with its tenants and partners across the aviation community.

Transfer of Firearms

What are the four key medical/estate plan documents you need now?

Dear Readers,

What is the proper way to value, transfer or surrender firearms from an estate/ trust? Many families have enjoyed hunting, recreational or competitive shooting and collecting firearms for generations. As a result, firearms can have significant meaning and sentimental value. However, it is important to follow applicable federal and state laws when transferring firearms of a deceased person to the next generation, or selling them to third parties.

Obtain Proper Valuation of Firearms

If the deceased person died without a will or trust, or without otherwise specifying in estate documents who should receive the firearms, the firearms should be appraised by a valuation professional. Firearms can vary widely in value, depending on a number of factors, including their condition, their rarity and the nature of any modifications that have been made. The best approach is to enlist an appraiser with significant experience in appraising firearms, to help with an accurate appraisal. Local gun shops and local law enforcement can help identify reputable gunsmiths or appraisers who can assist with the appraisal.

After you have obtained an appraisal of the firearms and you want to either transfer them to an heir, or sell them, the best course of action is to arrange for the transfer by working with a business or individual who holds a Federal Firearms License (FFL). The FFL licensee is typically qualified to perform any required background checks, registration requirements, or bills of sale for the individuals who are purchasing the firearms, or receiving them through the terms of a will, trust, or inheritance laws. Because there are classifications of firearms, some will have stricter legal requirements for ownership.

Option to Surrender Firearms to Law Enforcement

Many people have philosophically determined that they have no use for firearms and they desire to decrease the number of existing firearms. If none of the estate’s heirs want to inherit the firearms and no family member wants them to be sold for cash to be distributed to the heirs, you may consider surrendering the firearms to the local police department. By doing so, you can avoid the requirements and potential liabilities associated with transferring firearms to private buyers.

Many of my clients have asked what are the critical documents to have? Simply being married does not give you the legal right to gain access to your spouse’s medical records or make medical decisions on your spouse’s behalf, even in an emergency. To avoid this problem and to help others care for you and to achieve your overall estate planning goals, the following documents create an effective medical/estate plan package: 1. Healthcare Power of Attorney; 2. General Financial Power of Attorney; 3. Advanced Directive for Medical/Surgical Treatment (“Living Will”); and 4. Will (or a Will with a Trust). Careful medical/estate planning should include preparation and signing of these documents, to accomplish your goals and protect you, both during your lifetime, and at the time of passing. The Power of Attorney documents allow you to designate those agents whom you authorize to help you on your behalf during your lifetime, and the Will/Trust documents allow you to nominate others to help with your estate after your passing, as well as to identify the beneficiaries and the distributions to them, to accomplish your estate planning goals.

January 1, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy Is Masterpiece The Koreans know how to engineer and assemble some great automobiles. The latest test car enjoyed over the holidays was a 2026 Hyundai Calligraphy hybrid with a suggested manufacturer’s price of $60,625. This eight-passenger, all-wheel drive combination, features a 2.5L/ turbocharged 4-cyl. engine teamed with a hybrid system that

is outstanding. The end result is an extremely powerful drive with overall fuel economy of 29 mpg. The Palisade model is assembled in Ulsan, Korea with 90 percent Korean parts, including engine and transmission. Hyundai offers a 100,000/ ten-year warranty on the power train that includes the hybrid battery components for that time period. The powertrain