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VOLUME 44 • NUMBER 3 • DECEMBER 11, 2025

44 Years of Award-Winning Journalism

Colorado Ballet Auxiliary and Colorado Ballet’s festive, elegant Sugarplum Ball Coverage by Scottie Taylor Iverson on pages 8 - 9

Sugarplum Fairy Jennifer Grace and Sugarplum Class of 2025 Photo by Doug Wells Photography

Sugarplum Alum Sofia Beauprez and her dad John Beauprez

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Photo by Scottie Iverson

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PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 2025

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December 11, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3

Focus is a Superpower In today’s ever-changing culture, filled with distractions and overwhelming noise, the ability to focus is crucial.

Whether it’s the lure of social media, the constant ping of notifications, or the relentless flood of information, being able to block out chaos and concentrate on what truly matters is a superpower. Focus isn’t just a skill; it’s a lifeline, a compass guiding us through the storm of distractions toward clarity, productivity, and success.

Research into the science of focus shows that our brains are wired to concentrate on one thing at a time. In fact, our prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making, planning, and focusing, has a limited capacity. Studies show that when we multitask, our brains switch between tasks, reducing efficiency and making it harder to remember and process information. The human brain functions best when focusing on a single task. This “cognitive narrowing” helps us make quicker decisions, process information more effectively, and achieve better results.

As I think about stories of some of the world’s most successful people, I am drawn to Tony Robbins, who has changed millions of lives through his seminars and coaching. Robbins is known for his intense focus on helping others reach their full potential, but what many don’t realize is the personal struggles he faced and overcame with focused determination.

Robbins didn’t come from wealth or privilege; he was raised in a troubled home, fighting self-doubt and a sense of failure. Yet through a mix of intense focus, strategic planning, and mastery of the psychology of success, he became one of the most influential figures in personal development. Recently, in one of his seminars, I learned that making a “To Do” list and updating it every day is not helpful. Tony said that if we could focus on the outcomes of three tasks, we would be much more likely to finish them and feel successful.

Here’s an example of how I’ve tried to build focus in my prayer life. I would tell those I cared about that I would pray for them. I spent years trying to focus and meditate on this promise to pray, but I would get bored, sidetracked, and distracted. Since my mom loved making rosaries and gifting me several sets, I relied on my Catholic upbringing to pray with them. I called

them my prayer beads. Each time I told a friend or family member that I would pray for them, I made a bead chart and gave each of them their own bead on my rosary. These beads became a sensory, tangible reminder to stay focused.

Other strategies to maintain laser-like focus include time blocking, which involves setting aside specific periods for key activities and eliminating distractions that waste time.

To make time blocking even more effective, schedule 2530 minutes with a 5–10-minute break in between to boost focus and prevent burnout.

Physical environments also

significantly impact mental clarity. Whether it’s a quiet room, a tidy desk, or a quiet library, find a space where you can eliminate distractions.

Be selective about the inputs you allow into your space.

Limit your time on social media, unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, and choose your media consumption carefully.

Focus is a superpower that enables us to live with intention, goals, and purpose. The freedom of making deliberate choices about how we spend our time is the key to flourishing. As we are on the cusp of a new year, let’s focus on living with intention and purpose, leaving a legacy to those we love and cherish. Remember, focus is a superpower! joneen@narme.org

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C NVERSATIONS ARAPAHOE COUNTY

Veggie Gardening Basics Learn how to grow your own vegetables at a free class Dec. 18, 4–5 p.m. at the Aurora Central Library.

Discover tips for soil preparation, fertilizing, planting, frost and hail protection, and proper watering.

Register now at https://bit.ly/CSUVeggieBasics

Veterans Coffee Club Join Arapahoe County Veteran Services in honoring service and community through coffee and conversation among fellow veterans.

Dec. 12 from 8–9 a.m.

DIRT Coffee Patio: 2506 W. Alamo Ave., in Littleton All veterans are welcome. Events are held the first and third Friday of the month, from 8–9 a.m. Coffee provided by Littleton Elks Lodge.

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

WEEK OF DEC 8

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 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 U.S. Mail for $78 per year. Single copies available for $2

I’ve always loved also has a great afterSaturdays to enjoy noon happy hour. The football games, atstaff are professional tending events, or just in white tux uniforms catching up on items and the meals are sucfrom a busy week. culent.

This past Saturday Nurses are vital to

BY BOB SWEENEY was a special treat us all and Friends of PUBLISHER for Gerri and I attendNursing is a decades ing the Friends of Nursing old nonprofit that provides Christmas luncheon at the scholarships to nursing elegant Eddie V’s restaurant students at nine Colorado in the DTC. This restaurant nursing schools at major inis located where Ed Novac’s stitutions. I visited the Regis Canteberry Inn once was the University nursing school centerpiece for local exceland was given a tour that lent dining excellence. Ed included watching nurses also had the Broker in down- train with a simulated hi-tech town Denver, located in a body for training purposes. It bank building with a gigantic would cry and perform like a safe located near the dining real body; hi-tech at work. area. Eddie V’s restaurant is a The luncheon featured a superb dining experience and silent auction, followed by

radio host Rick Crandall, CEO of Colorado Freedom Memorial in Aurora, serving as emcee for a musical performance by Littleton soprano, Christie Conover, and Denver pianist Sonya Walker.

Ending their splendid performance, we all joined in for a Christmas carol sing-along.

The highlight of the day was to, once again, see and meet the founding pioneers, leading ladies, La Fawn Biddle and Greta Pollard who have been key members since the early 1980s. We were honored to be their guests and sit at the table with La Fawn. We adore past president Melanie Wallace and welcome the new president Devonna Troutman who we

will see in action again at the spring luncheon, April 25, 2026, where the scholarships are presented to dozens of nursing school recipients.

Colorado Gives Day was this past week and if you check your Villager, you will find an ad on making a nonprofit tax-deductible donation to Friends of Nursing.

In attendance was our gracious, and delightful Scottie Iverson taking photos of the ladies that will appear in The Villager soon. We love this group. I had the privilege of meeting some nurses this past year and they are the greatest caregivers when you are suffering. Bless You Nurses!

Cherry Creek High School won its sixth 5A football state championship in the past seven years Cherry Creek High School won its sixth 5A football state championship in the past seven years, Saturday, under Coach Dave Logan, and 15th state 5A football championship overall.

The final score was Cherry Creek 56, Arvada's Ralston Valley, 28. Both teams came into the game undefeated. Logan, modest as always, said, "I'm blessed. It's been a great run.

Again, it's about the kids you coach and the coaches you work with. You try to establish the kind of culture that's going to be able to withstand certain things that happen in the season." Creek QB Brady Vodicka, headed to Louisiana State to play college ball, was named the National Football Foundation Colorado Chapter Most Outstanding Player.

Running back Jayden Fox, headed to UCLA, scored 25 rushing touchdowns during his senior season.

Photo courtesy of Colorado High School Athletic Association

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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 Susan Lanam — 720-270-2018 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.

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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December 11, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

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PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 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.

The gloves come off when the topic of a traffic light at Belleview & Franklin comes up at GV City Council On December 1, former Greenwood Village City Council Member Jerry Presley and Gerry Goldberg, accompanied by several dozen residents of GV and Cherry Hills Village, presented a petition to the GV City Council that included signatures and email addresses of 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 last year when she was hit by a car crossing that intersection as she was returning from a run.

The online campaign to collect these signatures ran for six weeks, between October 1 and November 15. Signees attested to their agreement with 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 Greenwood Village.”

Preliminary cost estimate for the light, before design has begun, is $500,000. If both approve, it will be split between the two cities.

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

As the public comment period of the GV city council meeting began, Mayor George Lantz said, “We are in receipt of the petition titled, “Andie’s Light,” asking the City Council to direct the city manager to cooperate with the city manager from Cherry Hills Village on a joint staff report regarding the pros and cons of erecting a traffic signal at the intersection of Franklin and Belleview.”

The mayor explained to the large number of people in the chambers that the council would only accept public comment for 15 minutes (each speaker is limited to three minutes) before moving on to the regular agenda, but that other speakers could be heard after the regular agenda matters had been completed, if the council chose to allow it. The council did allow it, and by the time the meeting ended, 28 people had testified.

Of that total, 20 were GV residents, 17 were CHV residents, and one (Jerry Presley) lives in Highlands Ranch. Ten of the GV residents spoke in favor of installing the light, nine spoke against it, and one, Peggy Stevinson, implored the city council to please just “solve the problem for everyone.”

Five of the CHV residents spoke in favor of the light and two were against it.

When Joel Rosenstein, who lives in CHV and believes the light is needed, turned around and asked people in the room who agreed with him, to stand, more than 35 people did so. A person in the audience asked where they

lived, and a large number said, “Greenwood Village.” We didn’t hear any other city named.

The first person who stood up to address the city council was widower Gerry Goldberg, who lives in Greenwood Village. Mr. Goldberg had never spoken publicly before at any of the over previous city council meetings we’ve covered in GV and CHV on this topic.

He said, “On May 30, 2024, my wife Andie was struck and killed by a car while crossing Belleview on her way home from her morning training run in Cherry Hills Village. The vehicle was trying to make a left turn from Franklin onto Belleview heading west.

The driver saw a brief opening in traffic and did not see Andie, already halfway across Belleview.

It was too late for the driver to react. That morning, Andie was training for a half-marathon in the first week of June. She was looking forward to celebrating her 60th birthday in September.

Shortly after her death, a group of concerned friends and neighbors from both Greenwood Village and Cherry Hills Village held several meetings to discuss the need for a traffic light at that intersection. It led to a traffic study in the fall of 2024 by CDOT to determine if a traffic light was warranted. That study concluded that a traffic light was warranted at that intersection but required the approval of the residents of both Cherry Hills Village and Greenwood Village. After several meetings in the fall of 2024 and in 2025 with concerned residents of both communities, Jerry Presley approached me with the idea of circulating a petition to determine if there was widespread support for a traffic light at that intersection. The results of that petition, being presented here tonight, do show widespread support for a traffic light, including support in the council districts in both Villages that are directly impacted by that intersection. Since the accident in May of 2024, I’ve been reflecting on why this tragedy happened. I believe it was a wakeup call for all of us that we had a problem caused by an increase in both speed and traffic volume on Belleview, resulting in extreme difficulty and added stress to cross or make a left turn onto Belleview from either Village. I would like to think that Andie’s tragic death could have some positive outcome by ensuring the future safety of others using Belleview and being able to cross or turn onto it safely.

As citizens of these communities,

approving a traffic light at that intersection is the right thing to do.

Thank you.”

Mayor Lantz expressed condolences to Mr. Goldberg for his loss on behalf of the city.

GV resident Keith Arnold, who lives on Cherryville said, on behalf of he and his wife, “We’ve lived in our home for over 10 years and have witnessed no one attempting to cross Belleview at Franklin, and I use Belleview and Franklin all the time…We’re very concerned about the amount of cut-through traffic on Cherryville Road as many of our neighbors walk with and without pets on Cherryville Road, and once installed, you will have increased the threat of a pedestrian getting hit from Belleview to Cherryville Road.”

CHV resident Howard Sheer pointed out that Franklin Street is an important way to access the High Line Canal for residents of both cities, thus a light would be helpful for that purpose.

Midge Wallace, longtime president of the HOA on Franklin Circle, pointed out that over 230 homes in GV south of Belleview Avenue have only three options to get out of their neighborhood, and two are on Belleview, while the over 300 homes in old Cherry Hills north of Belleview have 19 options to get out of their neighborhood, 17 of which are via Quincy Avenue or Clarkson Street, thus this is a bigger problem for GV residents.

Alecia Weaver, president of the Brookside HOA in GV, presented public records from GV and CHV from 2022 to 2025 that showed 12 accidents at the intersection of Belleview and Franklin from 2022 to 2025, which, she pointed out, “doesn’t account for the daily near misses,” adding, “There were two accidents within the past week. There was a rollover on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, where the driver was cited

by CHV for reckless driving and speeding. There was another accident at Summit and Belleview this week where the wall was damaged and the Stop sign was hit. That Stop sign still hasn’t been put back up. Both accidents were within 100 feet of the intersection of Belleview and Franklin.”

On the opposite page is an excerpt from a video she showed of two women on bikes trying to get across the intersection in traffic.

Gretchen Swanson, who lives at the corner of the intersection on the CHV side, told the council, “Andie, unfortunately, made a terrible judgment call. Sometimes, when people pass away, we tend to idealize them, rather than present a balanced view. It’s known as the halo effect. When someone dies, focus in not paid on Continued on page 7

December 11, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

fo l l ow F R E DA

Continued from page 6

the faults that we present in the personality of that person, such as the impetuous nature of crossing a busy intersection on foot, where no crosswalk had ever existed.

Per the police report I obtained, via public records, Andie had already run over five miles that morning. She chose not to use available crosswalks at Belleview and Clarkson or Belleview and University. Her spouse had also been doing the same for quite some time, so I’m sure he feels bad about that. Yet, human nature

is to justify our poor decisions and shift blame. There aren’t enough empty seats here for all of us to have for our dead relatives, unfortunately, and secondly, there exists no sidewalk along the GV side of Belleview from Clarkson to University to accommodate pedestrians. Are GV homeowners willing to have easements placed in order to take land for accomodation of a sidewalk along this stretch, as these real estate agents and ex-council members have suggested you all would be happy to do? Hidden agendas of these people are misleading, dishonest,

manipulative, and outright opportunistic. It seems to me they want to dictate neighborhoods as if they are running HOAs all over all of GV and CHV. Thirdly, do any of these people on the pro side actually live at this intersection? No, of course they don’t.”

When people in the room began to speak up from their seats, Ms. Swanson said, “You don’t live right at the corner there, no, you don’t. They live tucked away in quiet corners and side streets, most of them. In fact, I am quite annoyed these pro-lighters obviously garnered support for multi-

ple months secretively, behind the scenes, without informing most of us at this corner what they were planning to propose. I find that rude, devious, and underhanded.

For all of the above reasons and more, I implore you, council men and women, to not entertain the idea of a light at the intersection of Belleview and South Franklin.

Thank you.”

Renee Kerentounis, who lives on Cherryville in GV, said, “The statement that there is more traffic on Belleview Avenue is not supported by data. Annual average daily traffic, tube counts, for Franklin, in 2010 were 1485 cars, and as of 2024, were 1232 cars…

Tube counts for State Highway 88 (Belleview) in 2010 were 31,000, and as 2024, were 29,000…This is a light of convenience. There are three entrances and exits, and although one may not be as convenient, as I drive for a living, there is always a safe passage.”

needed to work, learn, Federal government will give Colorado internet run a business, or access health care. This historic investment will ensure that Coloradans have over $400 million to provide broadband help access to affordable, reliable highspeed internet required to thrive.” for residents of rural communities Once the National Institute of In an era where most of the news from Washington is about programs being cancelled and funding cut for a myriad of reasons, our state got the happy news last week that it will be receiving $420.6 million in federal funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to provide high-speed internet to over 96,000 Coloradans in underserved communities.

According to a report in the Denver Post, “Many of the locations are in El Paso, Elbert and Weld counties; in mountain communities along U.S. 285; and other communities spread along the Front Range. The grant is also

work to modernize broadband standards, expand affordability programs, and prioritize unserved and underserved communities positioned Colorado as one of the first states in the nation to receive NTIA approval to access BEAD funding and move from planning to implementation. This strong federal-state partnership laid the foundation for today’s approval and continues to accelerate Colorado’s progress toward connecting households with affordable, reliable high-speed internet.”

Regarding the award, Gov. Polis said, “For too long, thousands of Coloradans have been stuck without the reliable, high-speed

Standards Technology reviews Colorado’s plan to distribute these funds and the state signs off on the paperwork, which is expected to get done within two months, the Colorado Broadband Office of the Governor’s Office of Information Technology will be able to begin issuing grant agreements and draw down funds to move forward with the projects included on its approved list.

For more detailed information, you can go to https://governorsoffice.colorado.gov/governor/ news/colorado-approved-420-million-federal-broadband-funding-connecting-rural-colorado.

Colorado trash and recycling company adds composting to its menu

Certified compostable packaging.”

Compost Colorado founder Vannevar Fuessl, said, “We are thrilled to join forces with 5280 and Wompost.” Added Executive Director Noah Kaplan, “This powerful partnership puts accessible composting within reach for more Coloradans who want to reduce waste, build soil ecosystems, and capture carbon.”

Wompost Founder Carolyn Pace, said of the new partnership, “A few small, sustainable habits can make a big impact on reducing waste in your household or business. We are excited for this collaboration to bring this service to more Coloradans.”

5280 Waste Solutions handles trash and recycling for residential and commercial customers, including dumpster rentals for construction customers.

On December 3, 5280 Waste Solutions (5280), a Colorado family-owned trash and recycling company, announced that it had joined forces with Compost Colorado and Wompost, described as “recognized leaders in the state’s innovative and sustainable compost collection and processing industry.”

According to 5280, “This partnership is expected to transform the Front Range’s segmented waste management services into an easily accessible, one-stop trash, recycling, and compost solution for homes and businesses from Greenwood Village to Boulder. 5280 is now the largest independent or-

aimed at increasing access to tribal communities in southwest Colorado.”

The money being received is from the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, which was included in the Infrastructure, Investment and Jobs Act passed as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s “Internet for All” initiative.

According to the state, “Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, and Congressman Joe Neguse, played a central role in shaping and passing this historic investment, helping secure over $826 million in BEAD allocations for Colorado in 2023. Their

ganics hauler in the Denver metro area… The all-in-one solution is powered by 5280’s history of providing reliable services, Compost Colorado’s innovative composting programs, and Wompost’s dependable collection network. Together, they will deliver streamlined services that reduce landfill waste and create a greener future – all while maintaining outstanding service quality.”

5280’s President Art Mejia added, “Providing these services under one roof is a game-changer for residents and businesses across the Denver area.”

5280 CEO Jeff Kendall said, “Most people want to be envi-

ronmentally responsible, but it’s complicated. If you make it simple and educate everyone on the impact they can have, we believe that together we can make a real difference.”

According to a press release from 5280, crafted by Karen Crummy at 76 Group, Compost Colorado, which will retain its identity, “not only collects and processes organic waste, but also transforms it into high-quality, locally made soil that goes right back into the community. Its new, innovative facility now operates as Denver’s first official commercial compost site, providing a circular solution for food waste and BPI

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 2025

December 11, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

Sweet, delightful, magical - 35th Sugarplum Ball tradition at historical Brown Palace Hotel Photos by Scottie Iverson

Molly and David Coors with their children George, Sugarplum Grace, Charlie and Maeve

Reed and Boo Dixon with daughters Julia, Rosie, Sugarplum Taylor and Emerson

Sugarplum Alum Sofia Beauprez with her younger sister Audrey, grandparents - former U.S. Congressman Bob Beauprez and wife Claudia, grandmother Former First Lady Frances Owens, parents John Beauprez and Monica Owens Beauprez and grandfather former Colorado Governor Bill Owens

Sugarplum Alum twins Lucy and Gigi Rogers Courtesy Photo Sugarplum Alum Keira Gates and her dad Ryan Gates A special tribute to Sugarplum Program VPs Holly Price and Kim Bruetsch

30

Sugarplums in red & 27 Sugarplum Alums

Pippa Zank and her dad Dr. Daniel Zank

Athena Winslow and her dad Philip Winslow

Colorado Ballet Auxiliary Co-Presidents Hayley Servatius and Kathleen Hartmann surround Sugarplum Program Chair Katie Roberts Set Designs by Dave Barnes/ Scenographics

in green presented at Rose Ceremony

Sugarplum Alum Stella Kelin and dad Shebon Kelin Sugarplum Alum Genevieve Massey and her dad Nicholas Massey

Sugarplums and best friends Charlotte Kettering and Audrey Hiner Set Design by Dave Barnes/ Scenographics

Ashley Paige, Colorado Ballet Executive Director Sameed Afghani, Colorado Ballet Chief Advancement Officer Candice Jones

Sugarplum Lena Hill and her dad Patrick Hill

Katie and Steve Roberts with Sugarplum Alum Kennedy and younger sister London

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 2025

2025 Tables Extraordinaire www.stcatherinechurch.org

Photos by Gerri Sweeney

2025 Tables Extraordinaire benefitting The Philanthropic Outreach of Saint Catherine Philoptochos Society displayed 29 Enchanting Table Themes

“Join Us for a Holly-Dolly Christmas Party” - Olga Payne, Laura Yeros, Natasha Bealer

The Bakers were very busy selling their delicious sweet & savory Greek Treats Michele Krochta, Kathy Preonas, Denise Zoros, Ann Charchalis, Elaine Kambus & Christie Finch.

“Adorned in Blue” - Presbytera Stacey Dorrance, K.O. Kasten

“Joy to the World” - Valerie LeVier, Ramona Harbour

“Dynasty” - Elaine Strompolos, Evyan Maniatis, Agatha Strompolos

“For Those Who Believe” - Missy Katsoulas, Jean Greos, Sophia Katsoulas

December 11, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

“I am the Daughter of the King “ - Nicole Maniatis, Natalie Shallow

“Autumn Leaves” - Mindi Armatas, Kim Bechard

“Twas the Night Before Grinchmas” - Lexi Payne, Hannah D’Egidio

Saint Catherine Ladies Philoptochos Philanthropic Distributions

“Sit Down, Join Me for a Bite” - Georgia Armatas

“One Minute with God” - Alina Buzdugan

“Oh Christmas Tree”- Trina Bibbero, Michele Kapaun, Alessandra Gopsill

PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 2025

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APPLY TODAY: ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Love our libraries? Make a difference! Arapahoe Libraries invites you to apply to join its Board of Trustees. Applicants must reside in the Arapahoe Library District and be able to attend monthly meetings.

Apply online by December 17 at 4 pm.

Scan the QR code or visit arapahoelibraries.org/board-of-trustees.

December 11, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

Black Baseball’s Heyday: blending art and baseball

M

y long-promised 17th book, Black Baseball’s Heyday, has finally been published.

The official release date was December 4; (rather than any of the earlier dates mentioned since last May). First copies should be arriving any day.

As the subtitle suggests— Capturing an Era in Words and Art—this is not your typical baseball book.

There’s plenty of baseball’s history between 1880 and Jackie Robinson’s debut, but what sets it apart is Anthony High’s exceptional art. Anthony is an internationally known artist from Kansas City, and almost three dozen of his original paintings illustrate the decades chronicling the virulent racism of the late 1800s through enforcement of the so-called color line until Robinson’s history-making 1947 debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

McFarland Publishing

painstakingly produced the book, and the company’s summary expresses its breadth more succinctly than I can: “The Black Ball Era, a double entendre that describes segregated baseball from the 1880s to the mid-1940s, involves much more than just the exploits of Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, Buck O’Neil and dozens of their fellow eventual Hall-of-Famers. It’s also the time when minority neighborhoods flourished, American jazz blossomed, innovations made the National Pastime more dynamic and more accessible to fans, and leaders emerged.

“All of this is synthesized into one fast-moving, highly readable account that complements the distinctive paintings of internationally celebrated artist Anthony High.

“Thirty-two of High’s unique works are presented in the equivalent of an art museum tour complete with

the commentary of a guide via High-Lights which provide High’s reflections on, and background and explanations of, the image or images appearing with each respective chapter.

“Countless books have been published about the stars and various aspects of the Black Ball era, but no single work pulls all of the disparate dimensions together in art and words in quite the way that this book does.”

I’m very proud of my work in Black Baseball’s Heyday.

But what excites me most are Anthony’s paintings and how the High-Lights vignettes—a word-play on his last name— provide insight into his creativity in helping tell the broader story of not only Black baseball but also Black culture during more than a half-century.

In the book’s Introduction, Anthony writes: “I hope that turning the pages of this book will be like walking through an art gallery on a guided tour, viewing

In Negro League Story, one of Anthony High’s original paintings that appear in Black Baseball’s Heyday, the older man represents the ballplayers who made Negro baseball what it was, and the young boy is future generations. The ball the man is holding represents passing the legacy of the Negro Leagues so that it’s preserved and never forgotten. Negro League Story is displayed in the St. Luke Hospital Art Gallery in Kansas City.

paintings that represent different artistic methods and styles, and saying to yourself as you read the accompanying text: ‘I didn’t know that!’

“Many of the works in this book were created just to illustrate the engaging stories Denny Dressman has written to capture the Black baseball era, which the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City has preserved for more than three decades. Others are my interpretations of related subjects that called to me long before this book was even an idea.

“I have a keen interest in history, especially jazz and Black baseball, which began sharing a special home in Kansas City’s iconic 18th and Vine cultural district in 1997.

tation of three Negro Leagues stars, titled “Josh, Satchel & Cool Papa,” has toured America for more than two decades as part of the traveling art exhibition titled “Shades of Greatness: Art inspired by Negro League Baseball.”

Commissioned by the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, “Shades of Greatness” features, according to the museum: “35 original works of art produced by 28 diverse professional artists from across the country. The art interprets the Negro Leagues experience on-and-off the playing field.”

A member of the African American Artists Collective, High was a featured artist in the first Kansas City Parade of Hearts, a public art campaign

Anthony High, photographed at the top of the World War I Memorial, with Kansas City in the distance.

Anthony High’s cover collage features (clockwise from the upper left) Buck O’Neil, Cool Papa Bell, Satchell Paige, the Chicago American Giants team and their owner, manager and star pitcher, Rube Foster, surrounding Kansas City’s Paseo YMCA, where Foster formed the first Negro National League in 1920.

“Artistically, I try to show the connection between jazz and baseball in Kansas City.

I gravitated to Black baseball and jazz because there are so many wonderful stories that need to be told. I think this book is important for the unique way it captures the era of segregated baseball, spotlighting both unforgettable individuals and historic aspects of the period in which they became famous.”

High’s works can be found in the St. Luke Hospital Art Gallery, the Sprint Collection and the Buttonwood Art Space in Kansas City, and in the Noseworthy Collection in Newfoundland, Canada, among many installations.

One, an abstract interpre-

that attracted more than 700 submissions, in 2022. The committee selected 154 designs from 123 artists, which meant that some artists were chosen to produce two designs. High was one of those with two installations, one devoted to Negro baseball and the other focusing on jazz in Kansas City.

Black Baseball’s Heyday is available online from the McFarland Publishing website, Amazon and the online sites of numerous booksellers. ________________ Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@ comcast.net.

PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 2025

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CITY OF GLENDALE PUBLIC NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES The following ordinance was passed before the City Council of the City of Glendale, Colorado, on the 2nd day of December 2025, and was ordered published by said Council: CITY OF GLENDALE, COLORADO ORDINANCE NO. 5 SERIES OF 2025 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GLENDALE, COLORADO, CREATING CHAPTER 1.22 OF THE GLENDALE CODE OF ORDINANCES REGARDING CAMPAIGN FINANCE A copy of these ordinances is on file at the office of the City Clerk and may be inspected during regular business hours.

Dated the 3rd day of December, 2025 City of Glendale, Colorado Veronica Marvin, City Clerk Published in The Villager Published: December 11, 2025 Legal # 31185 __________________________ CITY OF GLENDALE PUBLIC NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES

The following ordinance was passed before the City Council of the City of Glendale, Colorado, on the 2nd day of December 2025, and was ordered published by said Council: CITY OF GLENDALE, COLORADO ORDINANCE NO. 6 SERIES OF 2025 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GLENDALE, COLORADO, PROHIBITING THE USE OF GRAYWATER AND THE INSTALLATION OF GRAYWATER TREATMENT WORKS WITHIN THE CITY GLENDALE AND AMENDING CHAPTER 13.08 OF THE GLENDALE CODE OF ORDINANCES A copy of these ordinances is on file at the office of the City Clerk and may be inspected during regular business hours.

Dated the 3rd day of December, 2025 City of Glendale, Colorado Veronica Marvin, City Clerk Published in The Villager Published: December 11, 2025 Legal # 31186 _________________________

SPECIAL DISTRICTS NOTICE OF BUDGET DEVONSHIRE HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT (Pursuant to 29-1-106, C.R.S.) NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget which may include a rate and fee increase has been submitted to the DEVONSHIRE HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT for the ensuing year of 2026; a copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of Blue Diamond Accounting & Consulting, Inc., 6050 Powell Rd, Parker, CO 80134, where the same is open for public inspection; such proposed budget will be considered at a special meeting of the DEVONSHIRE HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Monday, December 22, 2025. This meeting will be held via Webex. Please contact Darcy Beard, CPA at 303-594-5488 or d.beardcpa@outlook.com for meeting access information. Any interested elector of DEVONSHIRE HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget.

Dated: December 2, 2025 DEVONSHIRE HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT By: /s/ Darcy Beard Budget Officer Published in The Villager Published: December 11, 2025 Legal # 31187 ___________________________

• Remove hazardous limbs to protect people and property.

• Colorado’s cold, dry climate dehydrates trees - whether you water them yourself, or utilize our deep root watering services, don’t forget to water your trees!

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December 11, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

SEE & BE SEEN looking your best!

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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.

COLORADO BALLET CELEBRATES THE 65TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NUTCRACKER NOV. 29-DEC. 28. Ellie Caulkins Opera House. colorado ballet.org VETERANS COFFEE CLUB DEC. 12, 8-9 a.m. Join Arapahoe County Veteran Services in honoring service & community through coffee and conversation among fellow veterans at DIRT Coffee Patio:2506 W. Alamo Ave., Littleton. Events are held the first third Friday of the month. Coffee provided by Littleton Elks Lodge.

ARAPAHOE COUNTY HOLIDAY - THEMED FUN DAY SAT., DEC. 13, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at AC Event Center. Santa visit, Holiday Shopping Village, Live Holiday Music, Mechanical Reindeer Ride, Petting Farm, Snowball Toss. Tickets $10 in advance/$12 day of event. Kids 2 & under free. $25 for Yeti Set Go 5 K Fun Run; includes free visit to the Village admission & fun run T-shirt. Donate a new, unwrapped gift for one free admission per household. Does not apply to 5K Run. Fun Run tickets at Arapahoecountyeventcenter.com DENVER GOP CHRISTMAS PARTY TUE., DEC. 16, 6-8:30 p.m. Charity Toy Drive with FamUnity 501 (C)3 at Blackbird Public House, 305 S. Downing St., Denver. Bring a new toy for the charity toy drive. Cost to attend $30. Hors d’oeuvres and soft drinks with a cash bar.

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 Parkway, 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 303-759-9232 for a free breakfast. Have fun meeting new friends and an opportunity to give back to the community.

WHAT’S NEW? THE GARDEN’S BOUTIQUE GIFT SHOP Receive 20% off at the Garden’s Boutique Gift Shop thru 12/24/25 by mentioning The Villager. Located at 9542 S. University. Blvd., Highlands Ranch. Call 303-791-0338. Open 9-5 Mon.-Sat./ Sun 10-5.

12TH ANNUAL THE VILLAGE TOY DRIVE Donate New Toys (Ages 0-18). Drop off at First American State Bank, 8390 E. Crescent Parkway, Suite 100, Greenwood Village. Deadline for donations are Wed., Dec. 17. Volunteers of America Colorado needs 6,000 toys this Holiday Season.

“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/BlackBaseballs-Heyday/ 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.

DENVER LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 12 noon at the American Legion Hall, I-25 & Yale.

Interested in joining? Call Bob, 720-3139741.

BUSINESS NEWS COLORADO BUSINESS HALL OF FAME THURS., FEB. 5, 2026. Hyatt Regency Denver at Colo. Conv. Center. Register: Coloradobusinesshalloffame.org

ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. At Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway,Englewood. Info: Gail 720377-7682.

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 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.

GRAND OPENING - MT. FUJI SUSHI-HIBACHI The Streets of Southglenn - 6850 S. Gaylord, Centennial. 303-997-0888. mtjujisushico.com THE AUDIOLOGY METHOD Schedule a hearing test. 7180 - E. Orchard Rd., Ste. 302, Centennial. 720457-5113.

HOST YOUR EVENT AT THE JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT FREE ENTERPRISE CENTER In Greenwood Village. Events @ JARockyMountain.org 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 720-9695386.

ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE SENIOR LIVING 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.

THE EYEWEAR COLLECTION Owner Aaron Mozes is a CCHS graduate.

Comprehensive Eye Exams, Eyeglasses, Contacts. 5910 S. University. Blvd., Unit D4, Greenwood Village.

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

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

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

signs, vehicle 2026 Sequoia Hybrid Has It All road speed, and school zone warnings.

The 2026 Sequoia arrived just prior to the recent snowstorm. The magnificent all-wheel drive on 22” rugged all-weather tires was greatly appreciated on the icy highways. Riding in, and driving, this large all-wheel drive provides the driver and occupants a feeling of safety and security. Size, power, and performance do matter in the competitive menu of automotive vehicles. This massive Sequoia, named after the famous trees, projects a sense of safety and security with all the comforts of an $84,435 vehicle loaded with features.

The exterior is “Celestial Silver” a light gray shade that catches the sunlight to melt off

the early morning snowfall.

Power running boards assist the driver and passengers to climb aboard. They are greeted by leather trimmed seats and front row captain heated and ventilated chairs. A JBL 14-speaker sound system and subwoofer amplifier greet the passengers. The heated seats and steering wheel were very

welcome with the recent arrival of cold weather after a remarkable pleasant Autumn.

The array of controls are located under the 14” audio multimedia control with a wide assortment of choices of heat, cooling, and temperature modes for both front and rear seating. Always appreciated is the 10” “heads up” display of

Everything about the Sequoia is large, and naturally with the emphasis on size and power the final assembly is in San Antonio, Texas. Fuel economy and power is assisted by two dual electric motors working in harmony with the I-FORCE MAX twin-turbo engine providing 437 overall horsepower. Fuel economy is an overall average of 20 mpg. The acceleration is astonishing and the mufflers are tuned to a pleasant growl when putting the horsepower to work. The bottom line for the Sequoia is being a workhorse to pull boats, trailers, misc. with power and efficiency. The side mirrors are gigantic with a split view bottoms for a closer view of the blind

By H. Throttle

spot of the vehicle. The mirrors fold in when the vehicle is parked and locked. They pop out when the driver approaches the driver’s door. I found the mirrors effective and would be especially useful in towing, but almost too large in some city parking situations. They are really large and protrude out from an already large vehicle. The interior rearview mirror is wide and precise with a clear rear view.

Designed especially for eight-passengers, going camping, or using the vehicle for work, this is a utility vehicle with all of the navigation, technology and safety features.

A really fine vehicle, easy to drive and very comfortable.

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • December 11, 2025

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.

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