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Entertaining vs Hospitality Thanksgiving is here, and Christmas/Hanukkah is right around the corner.

Hosting dinner parties and welcoming family members from faraway places to celebrate traditions can feel overwhelming. The thought of preparing everything for the holidays often seems daunting. Still, we’re called to open our homes and hearts with generosity and kindness. How can we manage when we are so busy with work, life, and responsibilities? How do we find enough energy to handle all the holiday obligations with grace and gratitude?

I face these mental and emotional struggles every year. This year, I aim to be more organized, less stressed, stick to my budget, enjoy my time with others, and simplify.

What else can I do to improve at this? I recently learned the difference between hospitality and entertaining. Entertaining means it’s all about me. Hospitality is about my guests.

The word “entertain” means to provide with amusement or enjoyment; to hold the attention pleasantly or agreeably; divert; amuse. The word “hospitality” means the friendly reception and treatment of guests or strangers; the quality of receiving and treating them with warmth, friendliness, and generosity.

I have never considered the differences between hospitality and entertaining. No wonder I felt stressed. My expectation of entertaining was that everything be perfect. I used to believe that when everything is perfect, my guests will feel comfortable. This is crazy thinking! When I visit somewhere and the host or hostess is busy making everything perfect, I sense their stress and don’t feel relaxed.

I feel my presence makes them work too hard. I feel guilty for all the preparation it took to have me over. All the busyness doesn’t leave time for visiting, talking, playing games, or building deeper relationships.

Hospitality, on the other hand, is not about perfection or appearances. It is personality-driven. The host thinks about the little things that will make their guests feel special and relaxed. Hospitality says the dishes can wait; time with my guests is more important.

Hospitality has an open-door policy, whereas entertaining says, “Wait until I have everything perfect, then come

over.” Hospitality may not look like a magazine cover, but it has a comfortable environment ready for anyone. Hospitality values fellowship and face time over perfection; it is other-focused.

Growing up, my family always kept an open-door policy for meals and gatherings. Whatever my mother or grandmother cooked was what everyone, including guests, ate. No one worried about the place setting or table decor. What truly matters is talking, sharing, laughing, creating memories, and breaking bread together.

Love filled the air. Hearts were open, and people were genuine with each other.

There was always enough room and food for everyone.

When we focus more on appearances and the food rather than on service and quality time, we miss what truly counts—building relationships. Relax and enjoy your guests. Practice hospitality without complaining, open your home to joy instead of stress, feed your soul, and strengthen your relationships.

Remember, it’s not about you, the food, the decorations, or perfection; it’s about us, together in fellowship and community. Practicing hospitality is a gift to both you and your guests. joneen@narme.org

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C NVERSATIONS ARAPAHOE COUNTY

May your Thanksgiving be full of peace, love, and joy.

Thank you!

The Arapahoe County Elections Division sincerely thanks our partners who made the 2025 Coordinated Election successful. We especially wish to thank our dedicated election judges–everyday people who do extraordinary work to ensure your ballot is secure and your vote is counted.

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

arapahoeco.gov

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

WEEK OF NOV. 24

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

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, Aurora 80016. Available for home or office delivery by

Enjoy Thankssevelt in 1941 set giving Day, it dates the date of the fourth back to the Pilgrams Thursday in Novemat the Plymouth Colber as the official date ony in1621 where for the national obthey joined with the servance. It is a time Wampanoag Indians BY BOB SWEENEY for families to gather to offer thanks and and offer thanks for PUBLISHER share a meager meal such a great nation together. Thanksgiving beand to share love and fellowcame official in 1863 when ship among all Americans.

President Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving is a time for it as a time to bring peace thankfulness. back into the United States *** during the Civil War. PresI would encourage evident Franklin Delano Rooeryone to read our sports

editor’s column this week.

Denny Dressman had a long and successful career with the revered Rocky Mountain News in many prominent roles. His forte was sports, rising to the editor’s position.

We have been most fortunate to have him as a weekly award-winning columnist for the Villager in recent years.

Denny, at my urging, writes about his personal adventure as a cancer patient this week. It is a very memorable and moving column as he

describes what havoc cancer can do to one’s life in a short span. He is making a good recovery and all prayers are welcome for he and his wife Melanie. Denny returned home from the hospital and rehab this past week. He never missed a column during his 30 days of medical treatments. His column this week is the best that I have every read. Thanksgiving, yes indeed! Let him know how great thou art: denny dressman@comcast.net.

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.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Gerri Sweeney gerri@villagerpublishing.com PUBLISHER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR/ CO-PUBLISHER Susan Sweeney Lanam 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com LEGALS Becky Osterwald legal@villagerpublishing.com NEWS EDITOR Gerri Sweeney 303-773-8313 gerri@villagerpublishing.com GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER Freda Miklin fmiklin.villager@gmail.com 303-489-4900 REPORTER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com FASHION & LIFESTYLE Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com DESIGN/PRODUCTION MANAGER Thomas McTighe production@villagerpublishing.com ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS

Greenwood Village City Council 2025-2027 from left to right, Council Members Paul Wiesner, Katrin Mezger, Jay Shneiderman, Mayor Pro Tem Libby Barnacle, Mayor George Lantz, Council Members Tom Stahl, Ann Nelson, Bob Doyle, and Donna Johnston Photo by Freda Miklin

Libby Barnacle is new GV Mayor Pro Tem

BY FREDA MIKLIN GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER

On November 17, in a secret ballot, GV District 3 City Council Member Libby Barnacle, now in her fourth and final term on the council, was chosen as the Mayor Pro Tem by her fel-

low council members.

The Mayor Pro Tem serves for two years. In the mayor’s absence, the Mayor Pro Tem presides over city council meetings, and is authorized to perform “those functions and responsibilities of the Mayor

delegated to the Mayor Pro Tem by the Mayor in writing.”

After being selected, Barnacle told The Villager, “I sincerely appreciate the trust and confidence my colleagues on City Council have placed in me with my election to Mayor Pro Tem.

I look forward to working with the newly elected and veteran councilmembers and to growing my leadership skills under the mentorship of Mayor George Lantz. I will continue to represent the City with honesty, integrity, and transparency.”

susan@villagerpublishing.com Sharon Sweeney — 303-503-1388 cogambler@mac.com Gerri Sweeney — 720-313-9751 gerri@villagerpublishing.com Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Gerri 303-773-8313 EDITORIAL COLUMNIST Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com The Villager is an award-winning, locally owned, independent newspaper. All letters to the editor must be signed. The contributor’s name, hometown and phone number must also accompany all letters to the editor for verification and we reserve the right to edit contributions for space. We attempt to verify all matters of fact but hold contributors liable for the content, accuracy and fairness of their contributions. All submissions become the property of The Villager and may be reused in any medium.

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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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November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

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PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

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.

Petition with over 400 signatures supporting a traffic light at Belleview & Franklin presented to CHV City Council On November 18, a team of ten Greenwood Village and Cherry Hills Village residents, led by former GV Councilman Jerry Presley and Gerry Goldberg, presented a petition to the Cherry Hills Village City Council that included signatures from 432 individuals who support placing a traffic light at the corner of Belleview Avenue and Franklin Street, an intersection that is in Cherry Hills Village on the north side and Greenwood Village on the south side.

The group calls themselves Andie’s Light Campaign Committee, in memory of Andie Goldberg, Gerry Goldberg’s wife, who was killed in June 2024 when she was hit by a car crossing that intersection as she was returning from a run.

The group ran an online petition campaign from October 1 through November 15, 2025 in which signees agreed to the statement, “By submitting this form, I affirm my support for a traffic light at the intersection of Belleview and Franklin.

The intersection is controlled by two cities and therefore, I request approval of the light by the City Councils of both Cherry Hills Village and Green-

wood Village.”

The summary of the petition that Presley submitted to CHV included the names, cities and zip codes of the 432 people who signed the petition, along with comments that people added. Some of those were: • “I have lived in my home since 1959, and years ago I spoke to administrators of G.V., voicing my concern for how dangerous this intersection has been, and of course it only gets worse as populations grow. It is long past time for a traffic light, we cannot delay any longer.”

• “I have lived both on the Cherry Hills side and the GV side nearly my entire life. I am in full support of a light at this intersection. Our kids need a safe place to cross.”

• “We are impacted by this intersection several times a day. We are constantly worried about our safety and our families’ safety, and visitor safety coming to and from the neighborhood. A light at this intersection is simply a must!”

• “I have always been very concerned about this intersection. Please install the traffic light to keep our pedestrians,

cyclists, and motorists safe.

Thank you.”

Signees were required to submit their name, city, zip code, and email address. The email addresses were verified.

Street addresses that were provided were verified as being in the city that was listed. For those who didn’t include a street address, the city they listed was used.

The graph below shows where those who signed the petition live:

termine how to move forward to get a traffic light, after getting public input.

After the committee presented its petition, during the open testimony portion of the regular city council meeting, 19 residents of CHV and GV got up to tell the council their views on this topic. Ten had previously testified to CHV Council, GV Council, or both, and came to reiterate their positions. Of the remaining nine people who spoke, two from

Andie’s Light Campaign Committee is asking that GV and CHV work together to de-

CHV and two from GV were there to say they support the installation of a traffic light.

Three from CHV and two from GV came to say they did not.

Andie’s Light Campaign Committee plans to present these petitions to the Greenwood Village City Council at its next regular meeting on December 1.

Another group, Franklin Belleview Neighbors for Safety, has an online petition to gather signatures of people who oppose the traffic light.

The website does not contain the name or names of the organizers of this group.

As of this writing, their website says it has 408 verified signatures and 66% of those are from the 80113, 80121, and 80124 zip codes. The intersection of Belleview & Franklin is in the 80113 zip code on the CHV side of the street and the 80121 zip code on the GV side of the street. According to AI, “The 80124 zip code is located in the City of Lone Tree, primarily in Douglas County.”

No one saying they represent Franklin Belleview Neighbors for Safety has submitted anything in writing that has been made public or appeared at a city council meeting in CHV or GV, to date.

Attorney General, as Candidate for Colorado governor Phil Weiser Colorado a result of policies from Washington D.C. He explained, talks about courage and collaboration “I’ve had to go to court 43 The family home of Arapahoe County Commissioner Carrie Warren-Gully was the site of a meet and greet event for Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, candidate for the Democratic nomination for Colorado governor in 2026.

Among the over-100 people crowded into Warren-Gully’s house in Littleton for the November 11 event were more than 20 former and current local elected officials, including State Reps. Chad Clifford and Meg Froelich, Littleton Mayor Kyle Schlachter and City Council Members Joel Zink, Robert Reichardt, Amanda Henderson, and Steve Barr, Centennial Mayor-elect Christine Sweetland and City Council Members Marlo Alston, Amy Tharp, and Ryan Dwiggins, Sheridan Mayor Tara Beiter-Fluhr, University of Colorado Regent Ilana Spiegel, former Englewood Mayor Linda Olson, former Littleton Mayor Susan Thornton, and former Arapahoe County Commissioner Bill Holen.

Speaking to the crowd, Weiser opened with a “lesson in courage,” which he de-

Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser

scribed as, “being willing to do the right thing, serving your nation, being willing to make an ultimate sacrifice, standing for the values of the United States of America.”

Explaining why he feels it “on a deep personal level,” Weiser shared, “U.S. soldiers, in World War II, liberated my mother and my grandmother from a Nazi concentration camp. My mom was born five days earlier, making her one of the youngest Holocaust survivors. Those soldiers were serving with courage, because they believed in freedom. When I would talk to my grandmother and ask her how she survived,

Former Englewood Mayor Linda Olson, Littleton Mayor Kyle Schachter, Centennial Mayor-elect Christine Sweetland, Littleton City Council Member Amanda Henderson

Photos by Freda Miklin

her story of survival and resilience was a story of courage.”

He talked about how a local farmer had had the courage to help his grandmother survive by letting her stay in his barn one night, knowing that if the Nazis found out, not only would she be killed, but so would the farmer and his whole family.

He went on, “Sadly, we are not seeing a lot of courage in Washington D.C. these days.

In what is the latest—you can’t make this up---in the bill that just got passed is a provision giving U.S. senators, only senators, not Members of Congress, who had phone records mon-

itored as part of the January 6 (2021) criminal investigation, the chance to get $500,000.

It is essentially the senators putting their hands into taxpayers’ pockets, taking money for themselves. That is the opposite of courage, the opposite of selflessness. It’s selfishness, it’s corruption, and it’s wrong.”

Since Weiser shared that information, the U.S. House passed a bill repealing this provision, but the bill has been blocked in the Senate, so the provision handing $500,000 to eight specific senators remains in place, as of this writing.

Weiser continued, addressing actions he has taken while

times to defend this republic and the rule of law...We just won a case involving the Colorado School of Mines and funding, which is going to support geothermal research here in Colorado.”

Noting he has sued the federal government more than once to make sure Coloradans receive their SNAP (food stamp) benefits, Weiser said, “I take these attacks on this republic personally.”

Weiser talked about the promise of this country demonstrated by his life, as a first generation American, having had the opportunity to serve as a law clerk to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and as an adviser to the White House under President Obama, then becoming Colorado’s Attorney General and, he hopes, its next governor.

He shared about having spent his years as AG going all across this state, “building relationships before you need them,” emphasizing his belief that, “If you are not afraid to do the right thing, and you do Continued on page 7

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

Continued from page 6

the right thing, you are on solid ground...We’re going to have hard work to do in Colorado and we’ve got to do it with the spirit of partnership and collaboration...We are at serious risk of becoming a state with a declining population.”

He explained that reasons young people might not come to Colorado, and those born here might leave, include concerns about our education system, safety, jobs, and whether we have available housing that people can afford. His answer is, “The way through is together, with real collaborative problem solving and an innovation mindset.”

Weiser described how he “went across the state, to listen and learn from people,” after winning “close to $1 billion for Colorado,” from the opiate industry. Colorado and North Carolina were recognized as two states “who set the gold standard” for using the funds from the opiate settlement as intended, for treatment of addiction, with full transparency. Weiser told the crowd that then-North Carolina AG and now Governor Josh Stein reached out to him and asked how he did it, then followed the process he laid out.

Describing the method he used to distribute the opiate funds, Weiser said, “I sat down with county commissioners and city councils and asked, ‘What do you need?’ I told them that 90% of the money would go to the local and regional level. We’d let them spend it right away and review their records, after the fact, to make sure it was spent on the opiate crisis. Once a year, we’d get together and review best practices and learn from one another. The proof is...In 2024, overdose deaths from Fentanyl alone went down by 31% in

People were very interested in what Weiser had to say.

From left to right, Arapahoe County Commissioner Carrie Warren-Gully, former Littleton Mayor Susan Thornton, Littleton City Council Member Robert Reichardt, Arapahoe County Senior Community Health Promotion Specialist Leslie Levine

Former Arapahoe County Commissioner Bill Holen and HD3 State Rep. Meg Froelich

Colorado. Most of government is done on auto-pilot. Colorado did something unique because we did it the right way.” The details on how the funds have been distributed can be found at https://coag.gov/opioids/.

Weiser said that, as governor, he will use a similarly collaborative and transparent process to address the state’s challenges in areas like housing and child care, pointing to the importance of including local governments in determining best solutions, not just state officials. He explained, “We’re going to have to solve (problems) across Colorado, knowing that the challenges are different, depending on where you are, figuring out solutions that make sense and

a challenge. Both candidates have names of around 200 current and former state and local elected officials and other leaders on their campaign webpages.

In an interesting column published last week, Jon Caldara, president of the Independence Institute, a right-leaning think tank, said that he believes Weiser is likely to beat Bennet in the June 30, 2026 Democratic primary, because Bennet has said publicly that, if he wins the race for governor, he won’t resign his U.S. Senate seat until he is sworn in as governor, thus he will name his replacement in the U.S. Senate for the two years remaining in his current term.

And he is not saying who he

would name to that seat. Caldara believes that Democratic primary voters will be more likely to vote for Weiser because, if Weiser wins, they’ll know who their governor and their senator will be.

According to the most recent financial disclosure reports filed with the Secretary of State, Weiser’s campaign has collected $3,752,000 through September 30, 2025 and has cash on hand totaling $2,966,000.

The same reporting site says that Bennet for Governor has collected $2,986,000 in donations and has cash on hand of $1,594,000. That site does not include any donations or cash balances for Bennet’s super PAC.

Celebration for Centennial Mayor Christine Sweetland and new council members draws a huge crowd

Assessor P.K. Kaiser, Arapahoe County District Attorney Amy Padden, Sheriff Tyler Brown, Jim Noon, and outgoing Centennial City Council Member Mike Sutherland, along with Cherry Creek Schools Board Member-elect Mike Hamrick, who was a sponsor of the event, along with Commissioner Warren-Gully.

The Village Workspace at 7173 S. Havana Street in Centennial was the sight of a November 20 gathering of over 200 volunteers, friends, and relatives of newly elected Centennial Mayor Christine Sweetland and City Council Members Cindy Sandhu, Ashish Vaidya, Ryan Dwiggins

and Durrell Middleton, who will be sworn into their new positions on January 5, 2026.

Expressing her gratitude to a large number of people, some of whom she said supported her from the beginning of her political career in 2019, Mayor-elect Sweetland named, among others, Arapahoe

are truly sustainable. We’ve got a lot of work to do, and I’m ready to take that work on.”

The other major candidate in the Democratic primary, scheduled for June 30, 2026, is Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet. Colorado Politics reported last month that former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg had given $500,000 to Bennet’s super PAC, Rocky Mountain Way. There are no limits on contributions to super PACs. Anyone hoping to judge whether Weiser or Bennet is the better Democrat to be their party’s gubernatorial candidate on the November 3, 2026 ballot, will find using endorsements to help them decide,

County Commissioners Carrie Warren-Gully and Jessica Campbell, State Senator Chris Kolker, U.S. Members of Congress Jason Crow and Brittany Petterson, State Board of Education Chair Rebecca McClellan, State Reps. Meg Froelich, Chad Clifford, and Gretchen Rydin, University of Colorado

Regent Ilana Spiegel, and Centennial City Council Members Amy Tharp and Marlo Alston.

Other elected officials on hand to show their support for the newly electeds were Littleton Public Schools Board Members Joan Anderssen and Sean O’Shea, Arapahoe County Clerk Joan Lopez and

Continued on page 18

Centennial City Council Members-elect Ashish Vaidya and Cindy Sandhu, Mayor-elect Christine Sweetland, Council Members-elect Ryan Dwiggins and Durrell Middleton

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

Colorado Gives Day is officially underway—and early giving starts today!

This is Colorado’s biggest day of generosity, and it’s your chance to join thousands of neighbors making a real, meaningful difference.

Your support helps Cancer League of Colorado fund service grants, research grants, and clinical trials with trusted partners across the state. Together, we’re pushing for hope, progress, and better outcomes for those affected by cancer.

Early Giving is Live — and Your Impact Goes Even Further!

From now through December 9, every donation you make is boosted by a $1M+ Incentive Fund from Colorado Gives Foundation and FirstBank. The more we raise, the bigger our share.

Even better, if you start a new monthly recurring donation, Colorado Gives Foundation will match your first month’s gift up to $100. It’s an easy way to double your impact!

And here’s the bonus:

Every early donation helps us gain momentum and increases our chance to earn additional funds from the Colorado Gives Day Incentive Fund. Give today and you’re already part of Colorado’s biggest day of giving.

www.cancerleague.org

How to Give ❤

Visit Cancer League’s Colorado Gives page.

Click “Donate” and choose a one-time gift or set up a monthly donation.

If you choose monthly, your first gift is matched— automatically!

We’re deeply grateful for your commitment and for standing with us in this mission. Thank you for helping us reach our $50,000 goal and for making a lasting impact.

When Eloise was diagnosed with Sturge-Weber Syndrome, my world turned upside down. I felt a tidal wave of fear, sadness, and confusion, and an urgent need for answers.

That’s when The Sturge-Weber Foundation became our anchor. They connected us with compassionate families on the same path, wrapping us in a community of understanding and hope. Through the Foundation, we also found expert doctors close to home. This support helpsed us face the challenges ahead, like seizure management, glaucoma, and laser treatment on her birthmark.

The unknowns are still daunting, but this journey has changed us. We’ve learned to cherish everyday moments and to meet others’ differences with newfound empathy and optimism. Thanks to the Foundation, we’re navigating the challenges—and finding gratitude along the way.

If Eloise’s story moves you, visit Sturge-Weber.org to learn more and help support life-changing research. Together, we can give children like Eloise the chance to grow, thrive, and dream.

sturge-weber.org

Eloise

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

Empower future nurses to improve healthcare in Colorado communities Friends of Nursing raises funds for scholarships through nine schools of nursing in Colorado: Adams State University, Colorado Christian University, Colorado Mesa University, Colorado State University-Pueblo, Metropolitan State University-Denver, Regis University, University of Colorado-Anschutz Campus, University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, and University of Northern Colorado.

Dianne Bartlett (donor of the Max and Dianne Bartlett Scholarship) with recipient Chika Ago Njoku attending University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, Jeanne Taylor (donor of the Jerry Taylor Memorial Scholarship) with recipient Daniela Ramirez Castruita attending Regis University-Denver.

FRIENDS OF NURSING

Six of the nine 2025 Amy Davis Scholars: Ay’rion Williams, CSU-Pueblo; Megan Huether, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs; Elizabeth Kaschmitter, Colorado Christian University-Lakewood; Keara Harrington, University of Colorado, Anschutz Campus; Gabrielle Ligotke, Regis University-Denver; and Htoo Paw, Metropolitan State University-Denver.

Last April Friends of Nursing presented the largest sum of scholarship awards, such as these pictured, in its 44-year history, $170,000.00 to students at nine schools of nursing in Colorado.

These nursing students will be improving healthcare in our Colorado communities for years to come.

– THANK YOU –

for supporting Friends of Nursing

To donate, please visit www.friendsofnursing.org, go to the Donate page, and click on PayPal.

Martyred Angels Grief Support

Spirit Horse and The Martyred Angels Foundation are honored to announce their collaboration to create the Martyred Angels Grief Support - Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy sessions for families that have undergone loss and are looking for support and healing. Each session utilizes Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, process support, and trauma informed care to help families look for ways to heal and find meaning in their sorrow. Therapy is paid in full by The Martyred Angels Foundation - A foundation set up to help families who are grieving and in need of financial assistance.

If you or someone you know would benefit from this group, please reach out to The Martyred Angels Foundation or email them at martyredangels501c3@gmail.com “Our mission is to provide community support to families struggling after the tragic death of a child.”

In Loving Memory Bladyn James Wayne Vogels.

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

WHEN YOU GIVE TO A PRECIOUS CHILD THIS COLORADO GIVES DAY...

$20

Can supply a family with diapers and wipes for one week, ensuring they have essential care and comfort.

$40

Can support five teenagers with hygiene products for a month, promoting their health and boosting their self-esteem.

$60

Can provide holiday gifts for one child who might otherwise go without, bringing the gift of hope and celebration.

$100

Can equip a child with essential clothing, a warm coat, sturdy shoes and vital hygiene items for an entire year.

HELP US SAY “YES” TO EVERY CHILD WHO WALKS THROUGH OUR DOORS BY DONATING TODAY! Give now at bit.ly/COGD-Donate

YOUR GIFT NURTURES A LOVE OF DANCE AT EVERY LEVEL!

C O L O R A D O B A L L E T. O R G

Colorado Ballet is a non-profit organization celebrating 65 years of presenting world-class ballet and innovative dance in Colorado. Your donation helps fund professional performances, training the next generation of artists, and making dance accessible to everyone and inclusive of all.

Scan the QR code to make a Colorado Gives Day gift. Your impact will be doubled thanks to a matching gift opportunity!

Photo by Andrew Fassbender

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

Donate Today!

Ambassador Chase Perry & Chloe Becker with Actor Max Carver

Together, we can help people with Down syndrome live longer, healthier lives.

TO DONATE

TO DONATE

PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

Help A Precious Child empower over 50,000 kids with essential support—diapers, clothing, food, holiday gifts and more. Donate today to make an impact:

❤ Join BRRC in standing with children and families recovering from bullying. Your gift fuels healing, resilience, and belonging.

“Our mission is to provide community support to families struggling after the tragic death of a child.” In Loving Memory Bladyn James Wayne Vogels.

Your support keeps Colorado’s iconic landscapes alive. From the food on our tables to the scenic views that make Colorado feel like home. You’re helping conserve the land that provides for us all.

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

Your gift takes center stage—and this season, it’s doubled! Support Colorado Ballet’s world-class performances, young artist training, and making dance accessible to all.

“Scouting Colorado equips and empowers youth to develop into leaders through life experiences, service and adventure.

Scouting serves all youth and all families across Colorado.” www.coloradogives.org/donate/ Scoutingcolorado

Leading the way through life-changing disability and community services for people with disabilities, their families, and caregivers across Colorado.

Your gift provides spay/neuter surgery for homeless & free-roaming cats, while also taking young kittens off the streets and placing them into adoptive homes. www.TheFelineFix.org

CLC is a unique all-volunteer nonprofit. 100% of your donation funds ground-breaking cancer research and cancer-related services in Colorado. www.cancerleague.org

FullCircle offers free peer support, sober events, and family programs that empower Colorado teens and young adults to live connected, healthy, recovery-centered lives. www.fullcircleprogram.com/donations

The Gathering Place provides low-barrier, traumainformed care to women, gender-diverse people, and children experiencing homelessness. Your gift provides critical resources and support as they navigate the path ahead. www.coloradogives.org/organization/ Thegatheringplace

Horse Partners offers mental health services through partnership with horses. Join in offering hope and healing to our Veterans, at-risk youth, and those in need.

Every acre, every river mile, and every species protected begins with you. Support The Nature Conservancy’s work in Colorado to create real change for our planet, together. www.coloradogives.org/organization/ Nature-Co

Help turn silent nights into seasons of connection. Your support provides 260,000+ nourishing meals filled with comfort, friendship, and hope for older adults.

BE A HIGH LINE HERO

Support The SWF this Colorado Gives Day to advance research for SturgeWeber, Birthmarks, & Glaucoma. Visit Sturge-Weber.org to learn more and make an impact today.

Third Way Center empowers youth to rise above trauma—offering safety, healing, and unwavering support so they can discover their strength and create bright, successful futures.

FRIENDS OF NURSING Providing scholarships for nursing students in Colorado positively impacts the health of our communities. It is estimated that Colorado will experience a shortage of nurses reaching 10,000 RN’s in 2026. Please help Friends of Nursing educate the next generation of nurses. www.friendsofnursing.org, go to Donate page, click on PayPal.

GLOBAL’s mission is to elongate life and dramatically improve health outcomes for the amazing people with Down syndrome we serve through transformative research and medical care.

Giving Senior Dogs In Colorado & Across The Country Their Forever Home On Their Good Days, Bad Days, & Last Days

Donate to support the historic Cripple Creek Donkeys. Help preserve this treasured herd, representing Colorado’s rich gold mining history.

Keep the legacy alive for future generations! https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/ twomilehighclub

Colorado’s most vulnerable populations need your help. Your donation to Volunteers of America Colorado creates ripples that spread hope and restores lives. voacolorado.org/one_act

WINGS OF HOPE FOR PANCREATIC CANCER RESEARCH is an all volunteer non profit organization dedicated to funding pancreatic cancer research at the University of Colorado Cancer Center. www.wingsofhopepcr.org

Your Colorado Gives Day gift fuels lasting change. The Nathan Yip Foundation supports rural Colorado school districts building brighter futures through innovative, student-centered, community-rooted initiatives.

Zuma’s mission is to provide life-saving rehabilitation and sanctuary to homeless animals and pair them with troubled humans in an animal-assisted therapy setting. http://coloradogives.org/ ZumasRescueRanch

Limited opportunities are available to be included in next week’s Colorado Gives Day Special Section.

Please contact Susan Sweeney Lanam at 720-270-2018 or susan@villagerpublishing.com. EVERY DOLLAR DONATED IS GRATEFULLY APPRECIATED

PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

The silence is deafening

Every day in our community, adolescents battle in silence with mental health crises, and the stakes are their futures. These are not just statistics; they are our neighbors’ children, students in our schools, and vital members of our community whose potential is dimmed by the shadows of untreated depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Third Way Center provides a lifeline, offering comprehensive care and support that helps these young people find their voice and their path to recovery.

Third Way Center was founded in 1970 by Dr. Hildegard Messenbaugh, a medical student studying psychiatry at the University of Colorado. She was asked to help organize a shelter for runaway youth. She wanted to provide an alternative to incarceration and homelessness for severely troubled teens (thus – a “third way”). It quickly grew to one of Denver’s largest and most comprehensive TREATMENT programs for at-risk adolescents.

The goal for most of the youth at Third Way Center is to emancipate and become self-sufficient because they have no families to support them.

With an average annual success rate of 80%, Third Way Center boasts one of the highest success rates with this particular population in the entire

region. All aspects of the residential and educational programs are geared toward recovery and success, with strong emphasis on therapeutic problem solving, taking responsibility for one’s actions, learning basic independent living skills and completing educational and vocational programs that will lead to a productive future.

Although Third Way Center is licensed to treat children 13 to 20, we specialize in children who are 15 and older and we are often their last hope. Third Way Center takes children that no one else will.

Most have been abused and/or neglected repeatedly, many no longer have families and almost all of our youth have been in 30 to 40 placements before coming to us. They are truly Colorado’s “throw away” kids and it is our job to break the cycle of generations of abuse and neglect, one child and one family at a time.

Your contribution directly funds these critical programs, transforming despair into hope and equipping these teens with the tools to thrive.

For more information, please visit our website at thirdwaycenter.org

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

WINGS OF HOPE for Pancreatic Cancer Research is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to funding pancreatic cancer research at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, Anschutz Medical Campus. An all-volunteer organization, every donation received goes directly toward funding seed research projects at the CU Cancer Center. This enables many of the grant recipients to go on to qualify for major grants from such entities as the National Cancer Institute.

Maureen Shul founded WINGS OF HOPE for Pancreatic Cancer Research in 2012 after losing her brother and mother to the disease. "When you experience something that devastating, you need to find some purpose and meaning in it all in order to move forward," Shul stated. "For me, starting WINGS OF HOPE to fund the research that would improve patient outcomes and survival rates was the only thing I could think of doing to honor my family and all those impacted by this disease."

Research funding comes from donations received throughout the year and from 2 signature events, “Evening of Hope” and the Kingsbury Open. This year’s “Evening of Hope” featured two renowned local artists, one a pancreatic cancer survivor. Over $85k was raised that evening to fund pancreatic cancer research at the CU Cancer Center, Anschutz Medical Campus.

The Kingsbury Open, founded by Lisa Goodman in memory of her father who died from pancreatic cancer in 2007, has become a premier Colorado golf event, with all proceeds going to fund pancreatic cancer research through their partnership with WINGS OF HOPE. This year the Kingsbury Open raised $50k for pancreatic cancer research.

To date WINGS OF HOPE has given approximately $2 million to the CU Cancer Center for pancreatic cancer research, which over the years has resulted in several clinical trials being brought to CU Cancer Center.

COLORADO GIVES is a special and unique way for people to donate to the nonprofits they support and believe in. We invite you to join this effort to make a difference in the fight against pancreatic cancer.

Coloradogives.org/organization/wingsofhopeforpancreaticcancerresearch www.wingsofhopepcr.org

Dr. Richard Schulick, Director of the CU Cancer Center and Maureen Shul, founder of Wings of Hope

Cancer Center

NCl DESIGNATED COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER

Our mission is to provide a compassionate, loving, lifelong home where elderly dogs are cared for during their good days, bad days, and last days.

Give to PSDS on Colorado Gives Day! EARLY GIVING OPEN— DONATE BY DECEMBER 10 SCAN CODE OR VISIT COLORADOGIVESDAY.ORG

7000 Roxborough Park Rd, Littleton

303.222.0082

psds.org

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

The Gathering Place supports women, gender diverse people, and their children in building stable lives through home health purpose and community programs using low-barrier, trauma-informed care. We provide a safe space for members experiencing homelessness to access essential services, such as meals, showers, and clothing, as well as stability services, such as case management and health-focused programming.

In 2025, we have recorded 47,000 visits to our drop-in shelter and helped 147 adults and children secure housing. It’s been a difficult year for so many vulnerable people that

are scared, struggling, and being failed by the systems meant to protect them. With your help, we can continue to provide much-needed services and support for individuals navigating these uncertain times. To donate and find other ways to help your unhoused neighbors, visit TGPDenver.org.

The Gathering Place provides low-barrier, trauma-informed care to women, gender-diverse people, and children experiencing homelessness.

Your gift provides critical resources and support as they navigate the path ahead.

https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/ Thegatheringplace

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 17

Be an Angel this Season and donate When Nights Are Silent, Kindness Speaks Loudest

HOPE This Colorado Gives Day – Support The Feline Fix

Thousands of Colorado’s most vulnerable cats and kittens face the world alone — hungry, scared, and in many cases, without a safe place to call home. But thanks to compassionate supporters like you, The Feline Fix is changing their stories every single day.

This Colorado Gives Day; we encourage you to be part of something truly lifesaving.

As Colorado’s leading nonprofit dedicated exclusively to kitten rescue and adoption, low-cost spay/neuter, Humane TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) resources, and essential veterinary services, The Feline Fix is a lifeline for underserved cats and kittens. Your gift directly fuels programs that prevent suffering, stop the cycle of overpopulation, and give forgotten cats a chance not only to survive — but to thrive.

In the past year alone, The Feline Fix has: • Spayed and neutered thousands of cats, preventing tens of thousands of future litters.

• Provided medical care for abandoned kittens and cats in crisis — including those suffering from illness or injury.

• Supported dozens of volunteer fosters who open their hearts and homes to help rescued kittens grow, heal, socialize, and learn what love is.

• Ensured that community cats across Colorado live safer, healthier lives through Humane TNR. But the demand continues to rise. Every week, more cats need urgent care. More kittens arrive cold, sick, injured, or orphaned. More neighborhoods call for help with growing colonies. Our waiting lists grow faster than we can keep up — and that is why your support today matters so deeply.

Colorado Gives Day amplifies your generosity, allowing your donation to go even further thanks to the $1 Million+ Incentive Fund. When you give to The Feline Fix between now and December 9, you are not just donating — you are creating real, measurable impact for cats who would otherwise be unseen and unheard.

Together, we can build a future in which all cats are valued, protected, and treated with kindness.

Please schedule your Colorado Gives Day donation today and help us continue this vital work. From all of us — and all the whiskered lives depending on your kindness — thank you. Your compassion changes everything.

For more Information: TheFelineFix.org

For many older adults, the holidays can feel long and quiet.

Days pass without a friendly face or shared conversation. This winter, Nourish Meals on Wheels is turning those silent nights into seasons of connection for neighbors across South Metro Denver.

Each weekday, the Nourish kitchen prepares nearly 800 hot, from-scratch meals for older adults in South Metro Denver.

With need rising, the organization has seen a 40% increase over the past three years and expects to deliver more than 260,000 meals in 2025.

Every delivery tells a story of care: a knock that brightens the day, a cheerful smile on a frosty morning, a handmade card tucked beside a warm meal.

For many who go days without company, these small gestures mean everything.

With more than 600 volunteers and 54 routes, Nourish delivers more than food—it delivers hope. “At Nourish, every meal is a reminder that someone cares,” said Nancy Falk, Executive Director. “Thanks to our volunteers and donors, we’re helping bring comfort and companionship to older adults across our community.”

Research and client feedback

show the impact goes far beyond nutrition. Eighty-five percent of clients say that daily visits from volunteer drivers help ease loneliness and stress, proving that consistent kindness builds connection long after the holidays.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED Deliver Meals: Routes take about two hours, typically between 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. weekdays.

Share Creativity: Make handmade tray favors, cards, or small gifts that lift spirits.

Donate: Every gift provides meals, caring visits, and moments of hope.

Refer a Neighbor: If you know someone 60 or older who could benefit, call 303-798-7642 or visit NourishMealsonWheels. org.

This season, you can help fill quiet homes with warmth, kindness, and community. With every meal delivered and every visit shared, Nourish brings light to the long winter nights and connection to the people who need it most.

303-798-7642 or visit NourishMealsonWheels.org

PAGE 18 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

“Horse Partners brings people and horses together for hope and healing. Alongside our horse partners, our licensed and certified staff serve the mental health needs of Veterans, trauma survivors, at-risk youth, couples, families, and individuals. Please partner with us in helping those who need a new way forward.”

Dear Supporter, We are reaching out today with an urgent and heartfelt request for your help in our 2025 Colorado Gives Day Campaign. As we approach the end of the year, Zuma’s Rescue Ranch is working hard to close the gap in funding for our 2025–2026 program costs—and we can’t do it without you.

Every dollar you give directly supports the horses and humans who depend on Zuma’s every single day. Your generosity keeps our gates open and our programs thriving.

Here’s what your support makes possible: • 80 meals are served every day to our herd of rescued and sanctuary horses, totalling 3,300 pounds of hay/grain • 160 hooves trimmed every six weeks to keep our horses healthy and sound • 40 dental procedures per annum • 80 fecal samples are collected, and read in the lab each month to prevent parasites/colic • 15 clients per week are receiving subsidized mental health services through equine-assisted therapy • 40 community service hours each month are offered to students, veterans, and volunteers in need of connection and purpose These numbers represent far more than operations—they reflect lives saved and lives transformed. Every horse that finds safety here, and every person who finds healing through our programs, is a direct result of compassionate supporters like you.

Your contribution today ensures we can continue feeding, caring for, and empowering both horses and humans in the year ahead. Together, we can finish 2025 strong and step into 2026 with hope, stability, and purpose.

How you can help us is to go to the website below and set up your own Colorado Gives Day Fundraising Page for your favorite horse, or your favorite mental health program, Denver Children’s Home, or the DOD Veterans SkillBridge program.

Please take the time to create your page ASAP and set a fundraising goal. Zuma’s goal is $50,000 for this season!

Please Help Us Help Them Jodi & Paul Messenich, Founders www.zumasrescueranch.com

fo l low F R E DA

Incoming Centennial City Council Members and families with outgoing and current council members

Continued from page 7

Arapahoe County Democratic Party Chair Melissa Garland, Arapahoe County Clerk Joan Lopez, Gary Lopez

Arapahoe County Assessor PK Kaiser and outgoing Jim McClellan, State Board of Education Chair Rebecca McClellan, Kathy Centennial City Council Member Marlo Alston Sutherland, outgoing Centennial City Council Member Mike Sutherland

Over 200 friends and volunteers came to celebrate.

Photos by Freda Miklin

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 19

and active, this is a Thanksgiving thoughts high-energy psychologically debilitating condition. To want to help your caregivto muson experiencing cancer erterandenergyothersforbutevenbetheunable simplest The dreaded Big C. I don’t know anyone who is prepared for the changes and challenges that await when they’re diagnosed with cancer— even though American Cancer Society (ACS) statistics show that it’s hardly an unfamiliar experience. On average, 40 of every 100 Americans will hear that sobering news each year, according to the ACS. So, I’m sharing lessons I’ve learned since joining this not-so-exclusive club, at the request of Bob Sweeney, who founded The Villager 45 years ago and now is one of only two truly independent newspaper operators remaining in our state.

Bob had a near-death experience himself earlier this year, so both he and I and those close to us have something special to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.

Cancer is such a big deal that it doesn’t have just one “month.”

Between the American Cancer Society and the American Association for Cancer Research, every month except August and December is designated in some way. Some months have more than one.

ACS recognizes February as National Cancer Prevention Month; April as National Cancer Control Month (which includes various other specific designations including my specialty, Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month); May as National Cancer Research Month; June as National Cancer Survivors Month; and October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

My goal in writing this piece is that others who will go through the cancer ordeal aren’t surprised by realizations as they unfold, as I have been. Hopefully, at least some folks already in the club will find something of value here, too.

My diagnosis at the end of June this year was an inoperable tumor in my esophagus, which my oncologist told me meant it could be controlled and managed but not cured or removed surgically as with other esophageal tumors.

An MRI found some mostly small spots on my brain, too, suggesting my cancer had metastasized—in layman’s terms, spread.

Fortunately, as of this writing, two follow-up MRIs on my brain have showed that the five

radiation treatments I underwent at the outset were successful. And based on recent results of a follow-up PET scan, my bi-weekly chemo infusions, which were temporarily interrupted by other unexpected side effects, appear to be working.

But it has been, and continues to be, a journey filled with discovery and unexpected complexities and twists, on three levels—medically, physically and personally. I suspect the same is true for most cancer patients.

I’ll take them one at a time.

Medically

I am amazed by how many types of cancer there are. The American Cancer Society puts the number at more than 100.

That’s HUNDRED! This extreme variety presents quite a challenge for oncologists, both to correctly diagnose then treat the right form, as well as to explain what’s going on to each patient.

With the use of medical technology, physicians use a biopsy procedure to analyze the tissue, then a pathologist provides a report that leads to the diagnosis and a determination of the of treatment to be used. You hear a lot about chemotherapy infusions for cancer patients. The trick: No two receive exactly the same mix of drugs.

That’s one of the complexities.

Drugs interact differently with each other and with individual patients. So, what works for one might cause problems for another.

Doctors must know what will work and what might cause harm.

In my case, after seven chemotherapy and immunotherapy infusions, I wound up in the hospital then rehab for a total of 22 days because of one such unexpected reaction. We think it was related to an immunology drug, not in the actual chemo mix, but there’s no clinical proof, which is a good example of what I’ve said.

I’d never heard of chemo rash, which when it showed up on my lower legs, ankles and feet resembled a Biblical curse or, at the least, a very bad case of measles.

The rash can produce serious blistering and did so in my case.

Some were as big as limes, and the pain was excruciating at times.

Eventually, I collapsed at home, which led to the hospitalization I referred to. I then developed what could be described as super measles over my entire body. Later I was told I had developed sepsis, which can kill you.

Physically

The biggest challenge many cancer-sufferers face is fatigue. That’s certainly been true for me.

For anyone accustomed to being

activity is demoralizing, to say the least.

Same for being dependent on others to do even the most basic of life’s activities.

Oh, how I yearn for a return to the days when I didn’t have to think twice about acting on any impulse or inclination. Now, I can’t find the energy to do it.

As I relearn activities as basic as walking in rehab, I’m also struck by how much we take for granted as adults. Folks stride easily, often in a hurry, while I feel like a toddler with each wobbly, unsure step.

Participation, I’ve learned, is a natural desire for most of us, and limitation is frustrating.

What else?

Chemo can really mess with normal bowel function, and of course, there’s largely tasteless food, resulting in unintended weight loss. And in many cases, there’s hair loss, which changes one’s appearance, sometimes dramatically. So far, I’ve been spared that indignity.

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Personally

This is where I’ve experienced the greatest sense of discovery.

Most people who send a “Get Well” card, email good wishes, offer help or visit have no idea what those expressions mean to someone who is coping with what I’ve described in this column.

We are social animals who need interaction with other humans.

A little engagement from outside goes a long way.

Hearing from family is essential, of course. But an almost equal boost, at least in my case, is support and encouragement from friends. Something about knowing they care and go to the trouble to show it. The shortest phone call, text or email does a lot to brighten your day and let you know you are not forgotten.

The other realization I’ve had is that it’s extremely important to stay as active as possible, both physically and mentally, whether that takes the form of the lightest imaginable exercise, joining small groups at least occasionally, or a more passive pursuit such as reading or, in my case, continuing to write.

Conclusion

The hardest part of having cancer is pretty basic. It’s the uncertainty.

Where is this headed? How will it end?

Maintaining a positive attitude makes a huge difference, especially in the face of the unknown.

That’s one reason family and friends—a support group—is so important.

Thanksgiving is a good time to reflect and give thanks for the small things in life. ________________ Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@comcast.net.

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PAGE 20 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

Curtis Center for the Arts Presents: Curtis Creates On view through December 20, 2025 – Free Admission The Curtis Center for the Arts is proud to present Curtis Creates: A Faculty & Staff Show, on view now through December 20, 2025. This exhibition is free and open to the public during regular gallery hours (M–F, 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m.–4 p.m.) at 2349 East Orchard Road, Greenwood Village.

In Curtis Creates, viewers will encounter a wide range of two- and three-dimensional works made by the accomplished Colorado artists that comprise our team of instructors, the members of the Greenwood Village Arts and Humanities Council,

and our very own Curtis Center staff. The depth of talent show-

cased in this exhibition exemplifies the quality of instruction in our art programing and represents our institution as a community hub for locally esteemed artists.

Some notable works include Pat Aaron’s monumen-

tal piece Joie de Vivre, in which energetic marks compose a rolling expanse of bespeckled green and white that is reminiscent of the natural landscape. With a practice that seeks to “stretch the boundaries of abstraction,” Aaron’s work responds to the beauty of nature and humanity through the colorful possibilities of encaustic.

Julia Rymer’s presence in the show is also noteworthy, drawing viewers in with works that behave almost archaeologically, evolving like “geological strata, [with] layers building up over time.” Abstract, yet evocative

of horizons and Colorado landscapes, her work considers the passage of time and personal heritage through the expressive application of paint and the process of gathering and embedding archival materials.

We are offering multiple opportunities to engage with the artists throughout the show. You can join our panel discussion on November 15 at 11 a.m. or visit an artist demo on December 6 and 13 at 11 a.m. All events are free to attend.

For more information, visit greenwoodvillage.com/curtis or call 303-797-1779.

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 21

money sense

The not-so-empty nest: How to help adult kids achieve financial liftoff When your children turn to you for financial support — and a roof over their heads — these tips from Merrill can help you give them the tools they need to move forward on their own.

Most parents have mixed feelings about achieving empty-nest status.

They miss their kids but take great pride in knowing they have set them on the path to financial independence. So when a report comes out documenting an increase in “boomerang kids” — young adults coming home to live with their parents — there is cause for concern.

According to a 2024 Pew Research report, “Parents, Young Adult Children and the Transition to Adulthood,” 57% of young adults aged 18–24 live with their parents — up from 53% 30 years ago. Among 25- to 29-year-olds, 21% live with a parent, up from 16%. If they are not living with their parents, many get help with rent or mortgage payments: According to a Better Money Habits Bank of America survey, “2024: The State of Gen Z’s Financial Health,” 54% of adult members of Generation Z (18–27 at the time) do not pay for their own housing.

Clearly, for many parents, the empty nest is not so empty. Plus, according to the Pew report, 44% of young adults say they received some sort of financial assistance from their parents during the past year.1 Young adults face many financial pressures: inflation, student debt and high mortgage rates, among them. Fortunately, for many parents, helping the kids is not a burden. In the Pew study, only 36% of parents said doing so had adversely impacted their financial situation somewhat in the last year.1 These not-so-emptynesters are more likely to be focused on finding ways to help their kids stand on their own financially.

“Of course, you want to be there for your children when they need financial help,” says Bank of America’s financial gerontologist, Cynthia Hutchins. “But the most important thing you may be able to give them

is a refresher course in the financial basics.” Consider these ways to help your adult children establish better money habits.

Lend an ear — and some budgeting advice If your adult children are asking for help paying their bills, first ask them what financial pressures they are facing. “It can help to share the financial missteps you may have made when you were younger, as well as the financial lessons you wish you had known,” says Hutchins.

Let your kids see that mistakes can be overcome if they stick to a wellthought-out plan.

Encourage them to create a budget that prioritizes expenses, designating some things as “needs” and others as “wants.” Are your kids overspending?

Suggest that before making any major purchases they ask themselves whether they have met their savings target for the month — say, 20% of their paycheck.

Tell them about the trade-offs you made when you were starting out.

Next, schedule time for them to talk with your financial advisor, who can offer perspective on the value of having a financial plan and ideas on how to pursue their financial goals, like saving for a down payment or going back to school.

Help out — but attach strings To encourage accountability, think about structuring your financial assistance in the form of a loan, Hutchins suggests. Put it in writing and agree on a repayment schedule. While the IRS requires you to charge interest on loans to family members, the minimum required rate is usually well below what traditional lenders charge.2 If your financial support comes in the form of a large gift (a down payment, for instance, or help paying off a student loan), consider positioning

the gift as an early inheritance and adjusting your estate plan to avoid any potential sibling resentment.

Set limits — on yourself and your kids Before you commit to providing financial support, sit down with your advisor to assess your current income and expenses and discuss how you might lend a hand without losing momentum on progress toward your own goals.

When talking with your children, be candid about how much support you can offer and how long it can last. Consider limiting your financial contributions to help with essential expenses (car loan, yes; streaming services, maybe not so much) and only after they have personally covered as much as they can. You may want to give your adult child a deadline for moving out and explain that your life plans (retiring, relocating, etc.) cannot be put on hold indefinitely.

Above all, emphasizes Hutchins, “Never dip into money earmarked for your retirement, or you may end up being the one needing financial support.” Remind the kids they have 40 to 50 years of earning power ahead of them — you do not. They will understand.

For more information, contact Merrill Financial Advisor Andrew Neal in the Greenwood Village, CO, office at 303.689.8043 or andrew.neal@ml.com.

1

Pew Research, “Parents, Young Adult Children and the Transition to Adulthood,” January 2024.

2

IRS.gov, May 2024.

Investing involves risk. There is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities.

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”).

MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC, and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Investment products offered through MLPF&S, and insurance and annuity products offered through MLLA.:

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Deposits

Are Not Bank Guaranteed Are Not Insured By Any Federal Government Agency

May Lose Value Are Not a Condition to Any Banking Service or Activity

© 2025 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP7981759 | WP-08-25-0348 | 472503PM-0624 | 09/2025

PAGE 22 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025

LEGALS

SPECIAL DISTRICTS Arapahoe Libraries Board of Trustees The Arapahoe Libraries Board of Trustees (the “Board”) invites interested residents to apply for an open position.

The Board is a seven-member governing, policy-making board. The Board is responsible for a $53 million budget, nine facilities, and the policies for funding and operating these facilities.

Arapahoe Libraries serves all of Arapahoe County except the cities of Littleton, Englewood and Aurora. It also serves a small portion of Adams County that is within the Deer Trail School District. New Trustees are recommended by the Board and confirmed by the Arapahoe County Board of County Commissioners and the Deer Trail School District Board of Education, the two governmental entities that formed the District in 1966.

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

2021 • 2022 • 2023 • 2024

CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE CITY COUNCIL AT THE VILLAGE CENTER, 2450 E. QUINCY AVENUE, CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, COLORADO 80113, AT 6:30 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2025 (SECOND AND FINAL READING), TO CONSIDER FOR ADOPTION COUNCIL BILL 4, SERIES 2025, A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE REPEALING AND RE-ENACTING ARTICLES I THROUGH VIII, REPEALING AND REPLACING ARTICLES IX, X, XI, XII, XIII, AND ENACTING A NEW ARTICLE XIV OF CHAPTER 18 OF THE CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE MUNICIPAL CODE CONCERNING BUILDING AND FIRE REGULATIONS; ADOPTING BY REFERENCE, WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE, THE 2020 NATIONAL GREEN BUILDING STANDARD, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, THE 2023 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE, AND THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE; PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS THEREOF; RELOCATING THE TEXT OF ARTICLES IX THROUGH XIII WITHIN CHAPTER 18 AND UPDATING CROSS-REFERENCES THEREIN; AND REPEALING ALL

ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT THEREWITH. THE PURPOSE OF THE REFERENCED CODES ARE GENERALLY TO REGULATE AND CONTROL THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, QUALITY OF MATERIALS, USE AND OCCUPANCY, LOCATION AND MAINTENANCE OF ALL BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES WITHIN THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE AND TO PROVIDE MINIMUM STANDARDS TO SAFEGUARD LIFE OR LIMB, HEALTH, PROPERTY AND PUBLIC WELFARE FROM THE HAZARDS OF FIRE EXPLOSION AND DANGEROUS CONDITIONS ARISING FROM STORAGE, HANDLING, AND USE OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS AND DEVICES IN THE USE OR OCCUPANCY OF BUILDINGS OR PREMISES. ALL REFERENCED CODES AND AMENDMENTS THERETO ARE AVAILABLE FOR PUBLIC INSPECTION AT THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK, 2450 E. QUINCY AVENUE, CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, COLORADO 80113. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PROPOSAL, PLEASE CALL THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT 303-783-2721.

ALL PROTESTS OR COMMENTS MUST BE MADE IN WRITING ON OR BEFORE THE HEARING DATE, OR BY PERSONAL APPEARANCE AT THE PUBLIC HEARING. Published in The Villager First Publication: November 20, 2025 Last Publication: November 27, 2025 Legal # 31131 ___________________________

The time commitment for Trustees is substantial. The Board meets on the third Tuesday of every month beginning at 5:30 p.m. (dates and times are occasionally changed.) Meetings are scheduled on a rotating basis at the various District libraries. In addition to the 2-4 hours of reading to prepare for each meeting, trustees must also commit to attending some library events, study sessions, and occasional workshops, conferences and related meetings. An iPad will be provided for Board reading material.

Besides your time and interest in the Library, the most important qualification is a sincere commitment to provide the best possible library service to the residents of the entire District. Experience interpreting financial statements is also encouraged. Applicants must live within the Arapahoe Library District service area to serve on the board.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform the functions of the volunteer position.

Interested persons should complete the online application found at https://arapahoelibraries.org/board-of-trustees.

Applications must be received by Wednesday December 17, 2025 at 4:00 pm. For further information please contact Oli Sanidas, Executive Director, at 303-792-8987.

Published in The Villager First Publication: November 13, 2025 Last Publication: December 4, 2025 Legal # 31114 ________________________ CENTENNIAL AIRPORT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that during a regular meeting which begins at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 11, 2025 the Board of Commissioners of the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority will hold a Public Hearing at which all interested persons will be given the opportunity to be heard concerning an Application Under Centennial Airport’s Minimum Standards for Commercial Aeronautical Activities from Advanced AOG to conduct Specialized Commercial Aeronautical Activities, specifically Mobile Aircraft Maintenance as described under Part 3 Section (11).

NOTICE OF VACANCY ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CITYSET METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2 of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 32-1-808, C.R.S., that vacancies currently exist on the Board of Directors of the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2 (“District”). Any qualified, eligible elector of the District interested in filling such vacancy and serving on the Board of Directors should file a Letter of Interest with the Board of Directors of the District on or before December 8, 2025 at the District’s Management office at 141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, Colorado.

Forms of Letters of Interest are available and can be obtained from the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2, c/o David Solin at Special District Management Services, Inc., 141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, CO 80228, (303) 987-0835.

CITYSET METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 By: /s/ David Solin District Manager

Published in The Villager Published: November 27, 2025 Legal # 31160 ___________________________ NOTICE OF HEARING ON PROPOSED 2026 BUDGET AND 2025 BUDGET AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the proposed budgets for the year of 2026 have been submitted to the Goldsmith Metropolitan District and Goldsmith Metropolitan District Block K Subdistrict (collectively the “Districts” and individually the “District”). Such proposed budgets will be considered at a joint meeting and public hearing of the Boards of Directors of the Districts to be held on December 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., or as soon thereafter as possible at 8351 Belleview Ave., Denver, CO in the Buffalo Conference Room. Any additional information will be available at least 24 hours prior to the meeting and public hearing online at https://goldsmithmetro.org.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that amendments to the 2025 budgets of the Districts may also be considered at the above-referenced joint meeting and public hearing of the Boards of Directors of the Districts. Copies of the proposed 2026 budgets and amended 2025 budgets, if required, are available for public inspection at the offices of Shea Properties 8351 E. Belleview Avenue, Denver, CO 80237 or contact Hannah Boldt at Hannah.

Boldt@sheaproperties.com. Any interested elector within the above Districts may, at any time prior to final adoption of the 2026 budgets and the amended 2025 budgets, if required, file or register any objections.

The hearing will be conducted as a Virtual Public Meeting via GoTo Meeting. In order to view the board meeting or participate in the public hearing, visit the following link and follow the instructions to join the meeting: https:// centennialairport.com/virtual-boardroom.

GOLDSMITH METROPOLITAN DISTRICT and GOLDSMITH MERIDIAN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT BLOCK K SUBDISTRICT By: /s/ Peter Culshaw, President

Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority

Published in The Villager Published: November 27, 2025 Legal # 31161 ___________________________

Published in The Villager Published: November 27, 2025 Legal # 31159 ___________________________

November 27, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 23 Sponsored by

SEE & BE SEEN looking your best!

What’s Happening is sponsored by THE EYEWEAR COLLECTION. Eye exams, chic & designer custom-fit eyeglasses and sunglasses.

Located in the of GREENWOOD VILLAGE. Insurance accepted.

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OPTIMIST CLUB OF MONACO SOUTH CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE BEGINNING OCT. 1 with a year of activities.

Tom Mauro is chairman of the Golden Anniversary observance. The club was organized between Feb. & July in 1976 with two original members, Greg Hurd & Kent Gloor, still members.

JENNY OAKS BAKER ANNOUNCES NATIONAL CHRISTMAS TOUR: “JOY TO THE WORLD! A SACRED CELEBRATION” Coming to Denver DEC. 1 - 2. Newman Center for the Performing Arts COLORADO BALLET CELEBRATES THE 65TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NUTCRACKER NOV. 29-DEC. 28. Ellie Caulkins Opera House. colorado ballet.org TOMMYKNOCKER HOLIDAY BAZAAR DEC. 6, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. & DEC. 7 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Exclusive gifts from more than 30 local artisans.

Set in Central City’s Historic Teller House. Cookie decorating, visit from Santa, coloring contest & more. Visit CentralCity.com/events for details.

Sponsored by Main Street Central City.

HAWK TALK & EAGLE WALK SAT., DEC. 6, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Discover the powerful predators of the sky with the City of Aurora & the High Line Canal Conservancy.

Location: Morrison Native Center. RSVP: 720-7672452.

38TH ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR DEC. 6, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Goodson Recreation Center. Local artists with a variety of homemade items. Admission & parking free.

FRIENDS OF NURSING CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON AND MUSICAL CONCERT SAT., DEC. 6, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Please join us for a delicious lunch and a fun Christmas Shoppe and Silent Auction at Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, 5111DTC Parkway in Greenwood Village. Enjoy a beautiful musical performance featuring headlining Soprano, Christie Conover. Rick Crandall is the emcee with two-time Friends of Nursing Scholarship Recipient, Sean Simpson, giving

an update on his nursing career following his graduation. For ticket information, call 720-8913412.

JINGLE JAM - HOLIDAY AFTERNOON SAT., DEC. 6, 1-4 p.m. at Centennial Center Park. Free, family-friendly celebration. Dancers, Centennial elementary & middle school choirs with holiday favorites. Free holiday cookies, hot chocolate & cider, write letters to Santa, magical snow globes for a fun photo opportunity.

CHERY CREEK REPUBLICAN WOMEN GENERAL MEETING/ LUNCHEON TUE., DEC. 9, 11:00 a.m. Program: Induction of 2026-2027 CCRW officers and Holiday Entertainment: Young Heart Trio; Oldies: Country & Dance Songs. Pre-registration required by Tue., Dec. 2. Double Tree by Hilton, DTC, 780` E. Orchard Rd., Greenwood Village. Free parking on West side, lower level. Cost is $38. www. cherrycreekrepublicanwomen.org or call 303-4759148 for reservations.

ARAPAHOE COUNTY HOLIDAY EVENT SAT., DEC. 13, 11:00 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Arapahoe County Fairgrounds. Holiday shopping village with Santa, music, food trucks, games & more.

11:30 a.m. - Yeti Set Go! 5 K run. Visit arapahoecountyeventcenter.com/visitthevillage THE VILLAGE TOY DRIVE FOR VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA COLORADO TUE., DEC. 16, 5-7:00 p.m. Annual wrapping party at First American State Bank, 8390 E. Crescent tParkway, Suite 100, Greenwood Village.

Hearty appetizers and drinks provided.

SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER ECONOMIC FORECAST BREAKFAST FRI., JAN. 30, 7:30-10:15 a.m. at DCSD Legacy Campus. Keynote speaker: Rob Cohen, Chairman & CEO of the IMA Financial Group, Inc. and National Women’s Soccer League Controlling Owner.

Keystone Speaker: Henry Sobanet, Chief Financial Officer/Senior Vice Chancellor for Administration & Government Relations, Colo. State University. Info@ bestchamber.com SAVE THE DATE FRIDAY, JAN. 30 7:30-10:00 a.m. Economic

Forecast Breakfast sponsored by South Metro Denver Chamber.

CLUB NEWS OPTIMIST CLUB OF MONACO SOUTH FRIDAYS from 7-8 a.m. for the pasts 49 years.

American Legion Hall, Yale & I-25. Call Frank 303759-9232 for a free breakfast. Have fun meeting new friends and an opportunity to give back to the community.

DENVER LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 12 noon at the American Legion Hall, I-25 & Yale. Interested in joining? Call Bob, 720-313-9741.

ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. At Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway,Englewood. Info: Gail 720-377-7682.

WHAT’S NEW? “BLACK BASEBALL’S HEYDAY” Capturing an Era in Art and Words, Written by Villager author Denny Dressman and Art by Anthony High. Pre-Order Now! https://www. mcfarlandbooks.com/product/Black-BaseballsHeyday/ COLORADO DEMOCRATS TO HOLD 2026 STATE ASSEMBLY IN PUEBLO MARCH 28, 2026 at the Memorial Hall.

RENEW YOUR VEHICLE REGISTRATION Renewal kiosks are fast, easy and issue you tags on the spot? Go to COMVExpress.com to find a location near you.

BUSINESS NEWS COLORADO BUSINESS HALL OF FAME THURS., FEB. 5, 2026. Hyatt Regency Denver at Colo. Conv. Center. Register: Coloradobusinesshalloffame.org GE TREE SERVICE Trusted & Reliable for 20 years. A Certified Arborist, Licensed & Insured, Family Owned & Operated.

Free estimates. Call 303-500-2017. www. coloradotreeremoval.com THE GARDENS GARDEN CENTER

HELP WANTED

Data Analysts - Multiple Openings CarePoint Health is seeking data analysts (multiple openings) in the Greenwood Village, CO area to manage ETL processes, develop reports with BI tools. $76024 per year (min.). Send resume to Sandra Copenhaver sandra.copenhaver@carepointhc.com ANNOUNCES NEW OWNERSHIP Locally family-owned-and operated. 9542 S. Univ.

Bvld., Highlands Ranch. Open Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

ASPENDALE 60+ ACTIVE ADULT APARTMENT COMMUNITY IN CENTENNIAL Appointments : 303-970-9514.

COWBOY MOVING & STORAGE Commercial & Residential Moves - Also, load & hold. Call 303-789-2200.

Upscale dining, engaging events and activities. Call 720-684-5913. Located at 133801 E. Yale Ave., Aurora.

TONIGHT WE DINE Fine meats & seafood. Free delivery on $100 or more. Look for The Villager Combo for $100. Call 303-215-0333.

SEMION BARBERSHOP FOR ALL MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN 5910 S. Univeristy Blvd., Greenwood Village.

720-531-3998.

GRAND OPENING - MT. FUJI SUSHI-HIBACHI The Streets of Southglenn - 6850 S. Gaylord, Centennial. 303-997-0888. mtjujisushico.com

THE EYEWEAR COLLECTION Owner Aaron Mozes is a CCHS graduate.

Comprehensive Eye Exams, Eyeglasses, Contacts.

5910 S. University. Blvd., Unit D4, Greenwood Village.

THE AUDIOLOGY METHOD Schedule a hearing test. 7180 - E. Orchard Rd., Ste. 302, Centennial. 720-457-5113.

BKC KITCHEN & BATH Free consultation & estimate. Visit showroom at 4151 S. Natches Ct., Englewood. 303-761-7477.

HOST YOUR EVENT AT THE JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT FREE ENTERPRISE CENTER In Greenwood Village. Events @JARockyMountain. org

HEARING LIFE HAS 30 DAYS RISKFREE TRIAL .5910 S. University. Blvd., Ste A-3, Greenwood Village. 720-362-3903.

CHERRY HILLS ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE 6325 S University. Blvd., Centennial. Call for Tour 720-592-0252 FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED ORGANIC NATURAL MARKET “FRESH MARKET”open at 1500 W. Littleton Blvd., Unit 106 - Woodlawn Shopping Center. Open 7 days a week. 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION + MORE 5 Star Google Reviews. Transportation Executive Services LLC. Call 720-969-5386.

ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE SENIOR LIVING

FALL PARTIES/EVENTS? BOOK TODAY Rocky Mountain Valet. Visit www.

ROCKYMTNVALET.COM KIMPTON CLARET HOTEL Host your next special event at The Kimpton Claret. www.clarethotel.com OWN YOUR STORAGE OR FLEX WAREHOUSE SPACE Visit MYDREAMSTORAGECO.COM PARKSIDE VILLAGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 14501 E. Crestline Drive, Aurora. Lunch is on us schedule your tour today. 720-315-7778 or visit ParksideVillageRetirement.com

2025 Toyota 4RUNNER Trailhunter Is Sport Masterpiece The words ring out, “I’m falling in love again…” as I motor around Colorado highways driving this shiny “Everest/Mineral” painted 2025 Toyota 4Runner hybrid masterpiece. The vehicle is described as a “Trailhunter,” with rugged tires and underneath skid plates; this vehicle can travel in the high country on a big game hunting excursion. I would suggest some careful driving; this baby is not inexpensive with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $65,900. Don’t let the price stop you from owning this vehicle, it is a masterpiece by Toyota engineers.

Let’s begin with the hybrid connection

that adds to the 300 plus horsepower from the I-FORCE MAX 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo charged engine has a hybrid powertrain component. The eight-speed automatic transmission with easy shift knob selections for mountain drive gear changes. The Trailhunter

offers three drive modes of sport, normal and eco. I spent most of the drive in powerful and economical eco mode, adding to the fuel economy that was 23 city and 24 highway overall mpg. Crawl control was another selection, along with 2 or 4-wheel drive

choices.

The exterior is one of power and prestige with a bronze heritage ornate grill and 18” bronze-finished wheels. Special features are a high mounted air intake to eliminate trail dust and any stream fording splashes, along with an onboard air compressor. The roof rack onboard can haul home that hunting trophy or camping equipment.

Exceptional good LED lighting with fog lights for night driving and snow storm flurries.

The interior has SoftTex trimmed heated and ventilated front seats that are exceptionally comfortable with soft padding and lumbar support. Music to enjoy on the drive with a

By H. Throttle

JBL/14 speaker sound system with a subwoofer and outdoor portable speaker for music at the campsite.

Safety is always of utmost concern and the Trailhunter has the 3.0 Toyota safety system. A 360-degree multi-terrain view monitor is handy for busy parking lots or mountain trails.

The 4Runner is assembled in Tahara, Aichi, Japan, subject to some of the new tariffs that have recently been reduced.

Toyota is now assembling many vehicles in the USA and pickups in Texas.

This vehicle is solid and well designed. A pleasure to drive with power, performance, safety, and versatility.

PAGE 24 | THE VILLAGER • November 27, 2025