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l’esprit de noël th

VOLUME 44 • NUMBER 5 • DECEMBER 25, 2025

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In Denver’s Historic Hilltop Neighborhood

PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 2025

PUT A RING ON IT WOW- WO RT H LY W E D D I N G V E N U E S IN SOUTH DENVER

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December 25, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3

Intentional Grandparenting My heart explodes with love and joy as I spend time with my adult children and my grandchildren. Having all my beloved family members in one place is my favorite. I look around and take a mental snapshot of this exquisite time together.

We live in an age-segregated culture. Adolescents hang out with adolescents, preschool moms connect with preschool moms, and on it goes. There is no age diversity. We are missing something essential and valuable… the generational transfer of wisdom and life skills. Grandparenting falls into this segregation of generational constructs.

Before the United States became such a mobile society, moving from state to state for jobs, schooling, life advancement, or even lifestyle choices, Sunday dinners at Grandma’s were a fixture in the rhythm of American life. Now, we don’t even experience Sunday dinners as a special event.

There is an increase in households headed by grandparents raising their grandchildren. These grandparents are burdened by primary parental care, discipline, and essential duties of child-rearing. Other grandparents are a source of occasional babysitting, which is a delight for many.

The quintessential beauty of the role of grandparents is to augment, enhance, amplify, and explode the love, connection, attachment, bonding, spoiling, adoring, and hugging of their grandchildren. Grandparents provide a link and legacy to a family’s past, accomplishments, trials, and the skills needed to overcome obstacles. Children need to know their roots and their cultural heritage. Parents are often too busy to reflect and discuss these things.

Grandparents have more time and are less stressed by the daily pressures of life. Many are retired and do not feel responsible for raising the next generation.

When surveyed, grandparents love spoiling their grandchildren, being light-hearted with them, playing games, reading books, taking them to events, attending their sporting events, and attending school award assemblies.

Grandparents are important because they provide: • a historical perspective on life • a mechanism for imparting valuable insights and essential life skills • time-tested generational truths • wisdom, time, love • modeling for successful living • a blueprint for building family traditions and legacy • stability, connection, and belonging through linkages to the past.

My grandparents, who graduated from 6th grade, instilled in me a passion for education,

positivity, hope, thrift, and service. I stopped by their house on the way home from high school as my mom was working. When I walked in, my grandparents were thrilled to see me, offered me a piece of fresh fruit already peeled, and allowed me to help them with fun chores like making pasta, hanging the wet clothes on the clothesline in the backyard, cooking, sewing, taking the dogs for a walk, or just playing cards in the kitchen. Their constant admonition to stay in school, be kind, and make the world a better place developed my character and my resolve to honor them.

My husband, who longs to spend more time with our hectic high school grandchildren, created a brilliant way to connect, even if you do not live nearby.

Every day of the week, he texts each one with Mackenzie Monday (snippets about their Scottish Heritage), Travel Tuesday (pithy geography facts), Wisdom Wednesday (famous historical truths), and so on. They respond with an electronic thumbs-up or a heart emoji.

Our children’s last grandparent went to be with the angels a little over two years ago. She left a remarkable legacy of love, care, and family connections for her children and grandchildren. We grandparents need to explore ways to connect beyond the Sunday dinner at Grandma’s or meeting up for a few days around Christmas or Hanukkah.

We need to become intentional and creative about how we will leave a legacy of life skills and wisdom for our children and grandchildren. It is our sacred duty. joneen@narme.org

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C NVERSATIONS ARAPAHOE COUNTY

Clerk & Recorder New Hours Beginning in 2026, all four branches of the Clerk and Recorder’s Office will change their opening time from 7 to 8 a.m. The Office will continue to close at 4 p.m. Service levels will be unchanged, as all services are available by appointment only.

Happy Holidays There is still time to enroll in health insurance—don’t wait to look at plans!

We can help you find one that fits your needs. Open enrollment runs through Jan. 15!

All County offices will be closed Wednesday, Dec. 24 and Thursday, Dec. 25 in observance of the Christmas holiday.

Visit ConnectforHealthCO.com

arapahoeco.gov

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

WEEK OF DEC. 22

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 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,

Erma Bombeck remembered I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would never have insisted She wasn’t a politician, on meals and presents to make the car windows be rolled up on never held public office, but families happy. a summer day because offered advice from her heart As we end 2024 and my hair had just been that seemed to heal our souls begin the challenges teased and sprayed. and tickle our funny bones. I of a New Year we all I would have burned heard Erma speak many years can take a lesson from the pink candle sculpago before her untimely death. Erma looking back tured like a rose before it She addressed a newspaper au- over her life as she premelted in storage. dience at our annual convention pared to end hers.

I would have sat on

BY BOB SWEENEY PUBLISHER at the stately Brown Palace hothe lawn with my chiltel. She confessed her addiction If I had my life to live dren and not worried about to smoking that likely ended her over grass stains. life before her time. I’ve feaBy Erma Bombeck I would have cried and tured this column in past years I would have invited friends laughed less while watching but it is so timely every year over to dinner even if the carpet television and more while that I read her masterpiece. A was stained and the sofa faded. watching life. special salute to all of the cooks I would have eaten the popI would have gone to bed of the holiday season, to the corn in the good living room when I was sick instead of prefathers, mothers, grandmothers and worried much less about tending the earth would go into and grandfathers, daughters the dirt when someone wanted a holding patter if I wasn’t there and sons, who worked so hard to light a fire in the fireplace.

The New Year; A good time to remember Erma’s philosophy

for the day.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn’t show soil or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I’d have cherished every moment realizing that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed impetuously, I would never have said,” later, now go get washed up for dinner.”

There would have been more “I love You’s” and more “I’m sorry’s’ but mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute---look at it and really see it---live it. And never give it back!

Aurora 80016. Available for home or office delivery by U.S. Mail for $78 per year. Single copies available for $2 per issue.

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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

Mayor Mike Coffman: Aurora Regional Navigation Campus pioneering new approach to homelessness resolution Homelessness is a national problem but at its core it is a local challenge, impacting cities all across the country.

Here in Aurora, where I have led as the mayor for the last six years, the city and our nonprofit partner, Advance Pathways, have developed a unique approach to addressing this challenge. It hinges on incentivizing individuals to take the steps they need to stabilize their lives, join the workforce and reach the maximum level of self-sufficiency that they are capable of.

That approach is being put into practice now at the Aurora Regional Navigation Campus.

That facility, known as the ARNC, opened on Nov.17 in the former Crown Plaza Hotel at Chambers Road and Interstate 70. It has the capacity to serve more than 600 individuals.

The facility’s programming is neither “Housing First,” where individuals experiencing homelessness are given private rooms with the understanding that once stabilized they will want to take

advantage of the wraparound services provided for them, nor is it a “Work First” model, where individuals are required to work in exchange for receiving assistance.

I like the “Work First” approach but that model is only effective for individuals who have already made the decision to change their behavior.

The ARNC’s incentive-based program splits offerings into three tiers. Tier I is a low-barrier shelter for newly arrived individuals, many just off the streets, who are provided with emergency services such as cots, and basic nutrition.

Tier II has better living condi-

tions than Tier I as an incentive to participate in case-managed mental health care, addiction recovery, and job training. Participants in Tier II are offered semi-private accommodations, a bed instead of a cot, places to store their personal items, and better food choices.

Tier III is comprised of 255 private rooms set aside as transitional housing for individuals who are working full-time but are still in need of some services. Those in Tier III will be expected to pay a third of their income back to support the program.

It cost $40 million to purchase and transform the former hotel into a shelter and service hub. That funding came from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which appropriated federal dollars to state and local governments during the pandemic. The project received ARPA dollars from Adams County, Arapahoe County, and Douglas County — the three counties that Aurora is in — as

well as from the State of Colorado and the city of Aurora itself.

The city has committed to providing approximately $2 million a year to support the ongoing upkeep of the facility.

Our partners at Advance Pathways will raise the remaining $8 to $9 million of the annual budget as they oversee daily operations. The Daniels’ Fund and the Anschutz Family Foundation have already stepped up to help Advance Pathways meet its funding requirements.

I believe that this strategy, focused on meeting people where they are and giving them tangible, concrete incentives to make progress on goals that will improve their lives, could set a new model for compassionately and effectively helping lift people out of homelessness. This is about finding solutions that work and can be replicated.

Aurora and Advance Pathways will be tracking and reporting outcomes in our push to reduce homelessness in Aurora by 50% by 2030.

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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2025 Member

QUOTE of the WEEK QUOTE of Ithe WEEK What don’t

like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day.

– Phyllis Diller

December 25, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

Christmas Shoppe, Silent Auction, Friends of Nursing hosts annual Exquisite Lunch, Entertainment FRIENDS OF NURSING Christmas Luncheon at elegant Eddie V’s while FUNdraising!

President-Elect Barbara White, President Devona Troutman, Immediate Past President Melanie Wallace

FON Founder Greta Pollard with Phyllis Wicklund (a past president and current parliamentarian)

Longtime supporter and board member LaFawn Biddle surrounded by other past presidents Amy Barton, Lola Fehr and Juanita Tate

Sean Simpson with treasured emcee for decades Rick Crandall

RN Sean Simpson (two-time scholarship recipient, now with Craig Hospital) with representatives from Metropolitan State University of Denver (his alma mater): Jenny Allert – Department of Nursing Chair, Katrina Little – FON Liaison, and faculty member Mallory Brunel

Entertainment in the lounge featured Sonya Walker at the piano and Soprano Christie Conover followed by a caroling sing-along

Abbe Adams, Michaela Graham, MacKenzy Adams

“The food and festivities were remarkable! The best part of the day, though, was raising much needed monies for nursing scholarships.”

-Devona Troutman, FON President Photos by Scottie Iverson

Buddies Albert Carlton, Tom Li, John Richey, Will Thompson, Michael Fant and Randy Gradishar added to the merriment

PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 2025

Central City Opera Guild’s 49th Annual L’ Esprit de Nöel Holiday Home Tour in Denver’s historic Hilltop set records for attendance and fundraising

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L’ Esprit de Nöel 2025 was presented by Barbara Ferguson, founder of Central City Opera Guild. Since 1974, the Guild has assisted Central City Opera with historic preservation, education, cultural and social events and fundraising. With personal ambassadors Steve Edmonds and Margaret Baker, Flair was escorted through the five unique homes with a myriad of themes (inside and out), breathtaking floral and the ultimate tablescaping. Sponsors, donors, talented designers, generous homeowners and a devoted committee help net approximately $110,000 with 1,100 touring the two-day event with Mother Nature cooperating.

49th annual

l’esprit de noël

Timeless elegance met urban edge with home tour unique architecture in Home #4 withholiday floral and table design by The Fresh Flower Market In Denver’s Historic Hilltop Neighborhood

NOVEMBER 21 - 22, 2025 BENEFITING THE PROGRAMS OF CENTRAL CIT Y OPERA

Home # 2 all by City Floral took First Place for Floral Design with fresh holiday citrus tones Home #1 featured floral designs by Kara Kara blooms and table design by DeFINE Design that won People’s Choice for Table Design with whimsical red and white Photos by Scottie Iverson

Table designs by Home with Holliday complemented floral designs by Lucy’s Floral and Design in Home #5 Elizabeth Rose Florals beautifully reflected the interfaith spirit of Home #3 L’ Esprit de Noel Co-Chairs Steve Edmonds and Margaret Baker at Home #2 by City Floral

Home #3 featured harmonious floral and table designs inspired by the opera by Elizabeth Rose Florals

Home #1’s Christmas tree tied together the varied themes throughout the Tudor home

December 25, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

SMF Women’s Holiday Wine Reception at The Rouge Wine & Bourbon Bistro Appetizers, pizza, hosted wine and insight into the Senate Majority Fund’s goals this election cycle

Former First Lady of Colorado Frances Owens and Claudia Beauprez

FLEURISH

Monica Owens Beauprez, Amy Leake, Natalie Skurcenski and Kelly Owens

Senator Lynda Zamora Wilson, Senator Lisa Frizell (Assistant Minority Leader), Senator Janice Rich (Minority Whip), Senator Barb Kirkmeier, and Senate Louise Bowen, Melanie Fuller, Claudia Beauprez, Sara Cassidy and Nancy Candidate Danielle Lammon (SD 27) Koontz Photos by Scottie Iverson

Annual Holiday Luncheon for Cherry Creek Republican Women Members and guests of Cherry Creek Republican Women celebrated the holiday season while enjoying lunch, the music of The YoungHeart Band and installation of the 2026-2027 officers. The new board members, who begin their term in January 2026, are: President - Nancy Sharpe Kennedy, 1st VP Membership – Joan Sullivan, 2nd VP Programs – Antonette Smith, Recording Secretary - Jennifer Hilger, Treasurer -

Caroline Cornell, Past President - Dorothy Gotlieb, President Emeritus - Evie Ashmore, CFRW/NFRW Liaison - Scottie Iverson, Corresponding Secretary - Andi Allott, Special Events - Jewell Hargrave and Lisa Fertman, Financial Review/Audit - Mary Hudson, Hospitality Chair - Marcia Saas, Parliamentarian and Small Donor Chair Michelle Austin and Website - Carol Waller.

RIGHT: Nancy Sharpe Kennedy is officially “crowned” with sash and western hat by outgoing 1st VP Membership Susan Struna LEFT: Entertainment by The YoungHeart Band - all award-winning musicians recognized by the Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame: Marla Downer, Mark Jenkins, Deejay Johnson,

Some of the board members sworn in by Colorado Federation of Republican Women President (at the podium) Judith Jergensen: (left to right) Caroline Cornell (Treasurer), Jennifer Hilger (Recording Secretary) and Nancy Sharpe Kennedy (President)

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 2025

December 25, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

Denver South celebrates its partners and the community

fo l l ow F R E DA Arapahoe County District Attorney and Sheriff share priorities and lower crime statistics On December 9, Arapahoe County District Attorney Amy Padden and Sheriff Tyler Brown held a joint town hall at the DA’s office in Centennial.

They talked about public safety and crime data, goals and objectives, legislative priorities, and the special procedures used to review and investigate officer-involved shootings.

Explaining the need to add to her staffing levels, District Attorney Amy Padden shared that, last year, the City of Aurora decided to stop handling the prosecution of misdemeanor domestic violence (DV) cases that occur in its borders. Those are now adjudicated exclusively by Padden’s office.

(Felony DV cases were already being handled by the DA.) That decision increased the number of cases at the DA’s office by 900-1,000 individual matters annually, along with related victim assistance and restitution matters.

Padden is also seeing more juvenile arrests. Those require very careful handling because of the complex potential long-term implications for juvenile offenders.

Primarily for those reasons, she requested and got approval from the Arapahoe County Commissioners for five new attorney positions and seven new nonattorney positions for 2026, including three new victim support specialists.

Padden listed her office’s priorities for 2026: • Domestic violence cases, including those formerly adjudicated by Aurora Municipal Court.

• Enhanced focus on cold cases, using the newest DNA technology.

• Justice integrity review, to ensure that prosecution and sentencing policies used in the past are not harsher than current policy, resulting in longer term incarceration for

Crime statistics for Arapahoe County 2023-2025

earlier offenders.

• A pilot diversion program for traffic cases of low-level non• violent offenders, aimed at preventing those convicted from reoffending due to underlying issues, and allowing the conviction to be removed if they don’t reoffend, to avoid the ramifications of the conviction later in life.

• A Family Justice Center, similar to those in many other nearby counties, that brings together resources for victims of domestic violence or other violence within the home, including delivering treatment to first-time offenders to prevent further offenses.

The District Attorney also talked about a Colorado law that has received a lot of publicity, resulting in, she explained, “individuals whose cases ‘time out’ (while) they have been found to be incompetent and can’t be restored (to sufficient mental acuity to be legally tried). Those cases are being dismissed. We need

a legislative fix because right now, the statute is mandatory about those dismissals. We need a legislative fix to address that.

That’s something I’m committed to working on, making sure that if we do have a case where someone is incompetent and their case is dismissed, that they are getting resources, that they are not just released to the street, that they are being civilly committed or they are getting treatment in the community, so that they don’t reoffend, so that we don’t see this cycle repeating itself.”

In July 2025, former Aurora City Council Member Danielle Jurinsky announced a campaign to recall Padden due to her belief that Padden had been too lenient in two cases, including one in which Jurinsky was personally involved as a victim. Padden explained, at the time, that she had no options under the law as it is currently written, but hoped to change it. The recall failed when no petitions with signatures supporting the effort, which required 75,875 valid signatures, were turned in by the deadline for do-

ing so.

Padden also shared, in the town hall, “Another legislative issue that we are working on is the increase we’ve seen in vehicular homicides and fatal accidents, (we are working on) what we can do to make sure we are holding offenders accountable, in cases that are aggravated, in cases where people are racing or drunk or speeding excessively. We’ve seen cases like this. It’s very disturbing for our community. We need to make sure we have the tools so everyone is safe on the road, whether they’re a pedestrian or in another vehicle.”

She also talked about the highly detailed process and procedure of the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), that contains specially trained officers from all the municipal police departments in Arapahoe County, along with the DA herself, who perform detailed investigations whenever a law enforcement officer shoots someone on the job who is seriously injured or dies.

Arapahoe County Sheriff Tyler Brown shared that his department is comprised of about 550 sworn law enforcement officers who perform patrol duties and operate the detention center, along with around 300 support staff.

About half of his department is devoted to law enforcement for the City of Centennial, which does not have its own police department. He noted that the total population of Centennial (110,000) is about the same as the total population of unincorporated part of the county, for which his office is the sole law enforcement authority.

Brown presented calls-forservice statistics for Part One Crimes (more significant felonies, including homicide, sex assault, robbery, burglary, motor vehicle theft, higher-value other theft), demonstrating a significant decline during the past two years.

See chart above.

Arapahoe County DA Amy Padden

Sheriff Tyler Brown

Photos by Freda Miklin

Elaborating, the Sheriff said, “Murder has decreased 75% since 2003. The big one that we’ve been talking about since COVID, motor vehicle theft, has seen a dramatic reduction of 59% since 2024...We were seeing a drastic increase in two specific vehicles that were being stolen, Kias and Hyundais. They share technology in their ignitions that made it very easy for them to be stolen. There was a fix for that, that helped to address this.”

He continued, “We also worked at the legislature with sheriffs and DAs and our law enforcement partners to increase certain offenses of motor vehicle theft.” The law previously treated thefts of cars worth less than $2,000 as a Class 1 misdemeanor, compared to the theft of higher value vehicles. That law was changed by the general assembly, effective July 1, 2023, when any car theft became a felony. Many in law enforcement believe that led to a decrease in car thefts across the state.

Colorado will opt into federal tax credit program for private school tuition According to Congress.Gov, President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, included “a provision that created a federally funded tax credit scholarship program for elementary and secondary education, effective January 1, 2027. Under the program, taxpayers will be eligible to receive a (federal) tax credit of up to $1,700 for the value of cash contributions to certain scholarship granting organizations (SGOs). These organizations, in turn, will be required to use these contributions to grant scholarships to students at private and public elementary and secondary schools located within their states.”

Through these SGOs, families who earn up to three times the area median income (AMI)

for where they live Metropolitan Statistical will be able to reArea is $140,100, thus duce their federal the family income limitax liability by up tation to obtain the fedto $1,700, based on eral tax credit would be what they pay for $420,300. private or religious In early December, schools and other Colorado Gov. Jared expenses. The credit Polis became the second will also be available Democratic governor, Colorado Governor following North Caroto cover the costs Jared Polis of books, supplies, lina Gov. Josh Stein, to computer technolannounce that he will opt ogy or other equipment, academic into the federal program, allowing tutoring and special needs services Colorado residents who qualify for special needs beneficiaries, to receive this federal-only tax incurred by families of publiccredit beginning in 2027. There is school students who meet the no cost to the state, which is only income criteria. responsible to verify that particiAccording to the U.S. Housing pating SGOs, which can be loand Urban Development Departcated outside Colorado, meet the ment, 2025 AMI for the Denverrequired criteria, including being Aurora-Centennial Colorado qualified as a 501(c)(3) organiza-

tion that spends at least 90% of its revenue on qualifying scholarships and only provides scholarships to students in the state that recognized it.

Polis spokesperson Shelby Weiman reportedly explained that the governor believes not taking advantage of the tax credits would leave “hundreds of millions in federal money on the table that could provide additional funding for after-school programing, summer school, scholarships, and academic tutoring,´ according to cpr.org.

Weiman said, “This tax credit creates an immense opportunity for Coloradans to support students in our state, but only if we opt in.

He (Polis) welcomes the opportunity to work with school districts and other education stakeholders to help ensure this credit can bene-

fit the greatest number of students across our state with evidencebased programs that supplement school days. He encourages the administration to ensure these tax credits lead to improved student outcomes.”

Organizations, including the Colorado Children’s Campaign and Ready Colorado, welcomed Polis’ decision, which is not binding on his successor when he leaves office next year. Organizations that do not support his decision, in part fearing it is a slippery slope toward state vouchers for private schools, which was most recently rejected by voters in 2024, include Great Education Colorado, the Colorado Education Association, Colorado Fiscal Institute, Colorado PTA, and The Bell Policy Center.

A

BY FREDA MIKLIN t a well-attended holiday party hosted by Denver South on December 4 at its offices in the AXIS building, owned and managed by Koelbel & Company, at 5613 DTC Parkway in Greenwood Village, CEO David Worley told the over 100 local business and government officials gathered, “As we reflect on this year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of our partners who make our work possible.

What makes our community truly special is the confluence of people coming together—sharing ideas, supporting one another, and creating something greater than we could achieve alone. It’s a joy to celebrate these connections and look forward to the opportunities ahead in the coming year.”

BUILT FOR BETTER TOGETHER

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.

Denver South CEO David Worley addressing the crowd

Lone Tree Mayor Marissa Harmon with insurance executive and South Metro Denver Chamber Board Member Steve Roper

Mayors Stephanie Piko of Centennial and George Lantz of Greenwood Village

Shea Homes Executive VicePresident Peter Culshaw and Villager reporter Freda Miklin

Arapahoe County Clerk Joan Lopez and Centennial City Council Member-elect Cindy Sandhu

Colorado Space Business Roundtable member Debra Wilcox, former Xcel Local Government Affairs Officer Tom Ashburn, and South Metro Denver Chamber President and CEO Jeff Keener

Lone Tree City Council Member Alecia Brown & Darryl Jones, Senior Vice President, Coventry Development Corporation

Centennial City Council Member Amy Tharp

Centennial City Council Member Don Sheehan and GV Mayor George Lantz

Former GV City Council Member Dave Kerber with current GV City Council Member Donna Johnston

Arapahoe County Assessor PK Kaiser

GV City Council Member Katrin Mezger and Centennial Mayor-elect Christine Sweetland

Denver South staff members Roslyn Vialpando-Miles and Kellie McQuade

Photos by Freda Miklin

Music for the evening was provided by local band Tin Brother.

Centennial Mayor-elect Christine Sweetland and South Metro Lone Tree City Council Members Mike Parr and Alecia Fire Rescue Chief Government Brown are bookends to Lone Tree Public Works Director Affairs Officer Mike Dell’Orfano Justin Schmitz.

“As we reflect on this year, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of our partners who make our work possible. What makes our community truly special is the confluence of people coming together—sharing ideas, supporting one another, and creating something greater than we could achieve alone. It’s a joy to celebrate these connections and look forward to the opportunities ahead in the coming year.” – Denver South CEO David Worley

denver-south.com

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 2025

money sense

5 rules for investing in retirement Managing your portfolio with new risks and priorities in mind takes careful planning and regular monitoring.

Here are tips from Merrill on how to get started.

Heads up: Investing in retirement is not the same as investing for retirement.

All the smart strategies you used to accumulate enough for retirement will likely need adjusting as you enter the next chapter of your life.

Think of it as a shift in perspective from investing for the really long term to being much more prepared for shorter-term risks. “If anything, investing in retirement is a bit more complex, given the variety of potential risks and uncertainties,” says Anil Suri, a managing director in the Chief Investment Office (CIO) for Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank.

So where do you begin? It can start with a thorough portfolio review with your advisor, ideally at least three years before you retire. After you retire, plan to revisit your portfolio quarterly and keep these five investing guidelines in mind.

1. Review your asset allocation with new risks in mind.

In mid-career, you could afford to be aggressive with your portfolio. When you are drawing down those assets after you retire and have less time to recover from market drops, a more conservative approach may make sense.

Still, being too conservative heightens the risks of outliving your money and failing to keep pace with cost-of-living increases. Consider that even a modest annual inflation rate of 2.5% would erode the spending power of a dollar by 46% over a 25-year period, according to calculations by the CIO. Ask your advisor whether your current fixed income and dividend stock investments are sufficient to supply you with the income you will need, given the potential for inflation and market volatility. Will your current asset allocation provide enough potential growth to cover another 20 years or more? Finding the right balance for your personal situation is key.

2. Prioritize your immediate cash needs.

If your noninvestment income (Social Security, a pension, income from a part-time job) covers all or most of your essential expenses — healthcare, housing and so on — you can take on more investing risk. If not, you may want to have more of your investments in lower-risk assets, such as U.S. Treasuries, high-grade corporate bonds or annuities.

“You want a high level of certainty around the investments that are supporting your essential lifestyle,” Suri says. “Beyond that, you need to pursue more growth.” Keep in mind that you may end up spending more than you anticipated in retirement. Some 45% of retirees report spending more than they had expected, according to the 2025 Retirement Confidence Survey from the Employee Benefits Research Institute and Greenwald Research.1 3. Do not abandon stocks.

While stocks are susceptible to shortterm price swings, they also give you the best chance of staying ahead of inflation and helping your money last. While you may have previously felt comfortable with an aggressive equity allocation, you and your advisor could now find that a more balanced allocation, say 50% to stocks and 50% to bonds, offers the greatest likelihood of providing you with the growth you need, according to the CIO. An all-cash portfolio leaves you at greater risk of running out of money.

4. Prepare for volatility, especially early in your retirement.

Volatility can be especially damaging early in retirement. When you are investing for retirement, you are likely contributing regularly to your retirement plan. Once you retire, however, you are not only withdrawing funds, but you are also no longer making fresh contributions.

You need to guard against what is called sequence of returns risk. It is what happens when a steep market drop in the first few years of retirement forces you to draw down stocks at depressed prices. Withdrawing more than you had intended could have an outsized impact on your remaining wealth. Having cash and short-term bonds on hand can help you navigate down markets, says Nevenka Vrdoljak, a managing director in the CIO. “Adding more guaranteed income could also help minimize sequence of returns risk,” she adds.

5. Stick to your plan — and review it regularly.

Creating a solid retirement investment strategy is one thing. Sticking to it is another, and our emotions can sometimes cause us to act too hastily when markets get volatile, particularly in retirement. In fact, because investors tend to buy and sell at inappropriate times, their actual returns often lag the overall market.

An advisor can help you avoid emotional mistakes, and reviewing your plan regularly with your advisor can also help you feel more in control. “One of the greatest threats to a secure retirement is the failure to have a plan,” Vrdoljak says. Developing a retirement investing plan — and sticking to it — may be the most important rule there is.

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

EBRI and Greenwald Research, “2025 Retirement Confidence Survey,” 2025.

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.

Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

This information should not be construed as investment advice and is subject to change. It is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be either a specific offer by Bank of America, Merrill or any affiliate to sell or provide, or a specific invitation for a consumer to apply for, any particular retail financial product or service that may be available.

The Chief Investment Office (CIO) provides thought leadership on wealth management, investment strategy and global markets; portfolio management solutions; due diligence; and solutions oversight and data analytics.

CIO viewpoints are developed for Bank of America Private Bank, a division of Bank of America, N.A., (“Bank of America”) and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (“MLPF&S” or “Merrill”), a registered brokerdealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation (“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. | MAP8116766 | WP-08-25-0410 | 472503PM-0624 | 09/2025

December 25, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

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PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 2025

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December 25, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

As elite athletes show, resolve helps beat age “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?”

—Satchel Paige “Age is an issue of mind over matter.

If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.”

—Mark Twain What sparked recollection of these sentiments from long ago?

Take your pick: • Philip Rivers, age 44, successfully returned to the National Football League’s Indianapolis Colts five years after he retired—earning the nickname The Gridiron Grandpa.

• Lindsey Vonn, at 41, resumed competitive downhill skiing after retiring in 2019 because of disabling crashes, and immediately won a World Cup race.

• Brent Burns, soon to be 41, is the oldest player in the National Hockey League yet sixth in average ice time per game for the Colorado Avalanche, almost halfway through the 2025-26 season .

• Max Scherzer started Game 7 of the 2025 World Series—the oldest pitcher ever to start a winner-take-all Series game—97 days after his 41st birthday.

• LeBron James played almost three-fourths of three straight 48-minute National Basketball Association games and averaged almost 25 points per game, two weeks before turning 41.

• Aaron Rodgers, 42 and in his 21st NFL season, has quarterbacked the Pittsburgh Steelers into first place in the American Conference North Division. In the Monday Night game against Miami, he completed 23 of 27 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns in a 28-15 win.

The common denominator in all of these recent examples is that the athletes are all more than 40 years old.

The message: 40-plus doesn’t mean you can’t still excel.

Skiing on a titanium knee after robot-assisted surgery last year, Vonn

approached 80 miles per hour on the slope as she stunned the sports world two weeks ago by winning the World Cup downhill in St. Moritz, Switzerland.

She then finished second in the same discipline the next day.

The Vail product previously had endured nine surgeries to repair injuries from on-mountain crashes. Now she’s a virtual certainty to represent the United States in the Milan Winter Olympics in February.

“All the people that didn’t believe in me,” she said, “I have to thank them because it really gives me a lot of motivation.”

Why do they do it? Why do athletes push themselves to such lengths?

There are many reasons, of course. But foremost is their competitiveness. Winning drives them, no matter the sport or any other endeavor in which one can outdo another.

This explains why many professionals struggle after they retire, and why some stay so long, or return.

Fifty years ago, George Blanda suited up for the Oakland Raiders when was 48. A quarterback and placekicker in what was his 26th season, he threw only three passes in 1975, completing one for 11 yards, but he converted 44 of 48 extra point kicks and 13 of 21 field goal attempts as he helped Oakland to a 11-3 record.

Ten years earlier, Satchel

Paige pitched three scoreless innings for Kansas City when he was 59 years old—more than twice the age of seven Boston players in the lineup that night and 26 years senior to the oldest player he faced.

He allowed one hit and struck out one, throwing a measly total of 28 pitches.

The Avalanche’s Burns, who is seven years senior to the next-oldest of the 20 Avs scorers below him through 33 games, is eighth on Colorado’s overall list of scorers this season.

Ignoring his age, Colorado signed the big defenseman as a free agent in July. He’s averaged just under 20 minutes ice time per game—nearly onethird of a full-length hockey game—this season.

Philip Rivers came off his couch and, with less than a week of preparation, started at quarterback against Seattle and would have engineered an upset victory if not for a 54-yard field goal in the final minute.

He completed 18 of 27 passes for 120 yards and a touchdown—his first since January 9, 2020, in a playoff loss to Buffalo that was his final game before retirement.

After the Seattle game, The Gridiron Grandpa said that one of the reasons he answered the Colts’ call after both their starting quarterback and his backup went down was to show others—not just those over 40 but even teens—that you can achieve no matter your age.

And not just in sports. ________________ Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@comcast.net.

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PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 2025

Ice Castles Unveils 15 Seasons of Magic as Silverthorne Location Opens The wait is over for the return of Colorado’s most popular winter attraction. Magic returns to Silverthorne as Ice Castles officially opens for the season on Friday, December 19, at 6 p.m.

Ice artisans have been working around the clock to prepare the attraction for opening day, despite unseasonably warm temperatures impacting Summit County this winter.

Beginning this Friday, guests will be able to step into magic and wonder with a landscape filled with ice slides, towers, tunnels and caverns. Explore stunning new sculptures crafted by internationally renowned ice sculptors. Every element is designed to immerse visitors in a whimsical, fairy-tale environment.

The icy fortress also features a frosty twist with the

Frozen Tap Ice Bar – the coolest spot in town to enjoy chilled beverages in a oneof-a-kind ice bar experience. Guests can also warm up with warm beverages and indulgent sweet treats from our on-site concessions.

“As we step into our 15th anniversary season, it feels especially meaningful to come full circle and return to Silverthorne where our first commercial Ice Castles came to life. We are honored to once again open in Silverthorne and to share a beautifully crafted castle with thousands of guests, celebrating the magic that started it all. The Town

of Silverthorne and Outlets at Silverthorne have been exceptional partners during this journey,” said Kyle Standifird, CEO of Ice Castles.

“The Town of Silverthorne is thrilled for the opening of the Ice Castles in Silverthorne. This icy and artful attraction will provide a boost for the local economy, and we can’t wait for residents and visitors to see how the Ice Castles is working with local artists and musicians to engage the community in this creative event,” said Silverthorne town representatives.

“Outlets at Silverthorne is thrilled Ice Castles is making its return to Summit County and home at the Outlets at Silverthorne this winter season. This dazzling winter wonderland brings an

unforgettable experience of wonder and winter magic to our community,” said Angela Andrews, Outlets at Silverthorne General Manager.

Ice Castles will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but the attraction plans to be open daily during the Christmas break. Tickets are on sale on the attraction’s website, www.icecastles.com.

About Ice Castles

Ice Castles has been bringing fairy tales to life since its inception in 2011. Founder Brent Christensen developed the patented process used to create Ice Castles while attempting to build a winter playground for his kids in the front yard of their home in Alpine, Utah. The project drew crowds who came out to tour Christensen’s frozen creation. Ice Castles has since turned into an internationally renowned tourist attraction with multiple locations across North America.

COURTS DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE STATE OF COLORADO 7325 South Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 649-6355 Telephone PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of: ROMEO EMERSON WOODS JR. AND KODA FORTUANTE DASH GUERRERO, Children, and concerning,

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

2021 • 2022 • 2023 • 2024

DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 645-6600 PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of: JADE NOELLE DEAUGUSTINE AND CHARLES ANTHONY DEAUGUSTINE CORDOVA JR., Children, and concerning, LARELLE EVA HARKER, KENNY LAMAR OATS, AND CHARLES LLOYD CORDOVA, Respondents.

Sylvia B. Geiger, Reg. #49589 Assistant County Attorney 14980 E. Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 sgeiger@arapahoegov.com Case No: 2025JV228 Division: 34 NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT REGARDING RESPONDENT FATHER, CHARLES LLOYD CORDOVA PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgement regarding RESPONDENT FATHER, CHARLES LLOYD CORDOVA, is set for February 9, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in Division 34 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot

afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you.

In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link: • https://judicial.webex. com/meet/D18-ARAP-Div34 • Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.

• Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.

If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664.

When prompted enter Access code: 2594 408 0614 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).

Dated December 8, 2025.

Sylvia B. Geiger, Esq. #49589 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner 14980 E. Alameda Dr. Aurora, CO 80012 Published in The Villager Published: December 25, 2025 Legal # 31120 ________________________

DANA RAQUEL GUERRERO, ROMEO EMERSON WOODS (DECEASED), JARIO GUZMAN, AND JOHN DOE, Respondents.

• https://judicial.webex. com/meet/D18-ARAP-Div22 • Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.

• Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.

• If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling 720-650-7664. When prompted enter Access code: 2594 887 9073 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).

If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin. /s/ Eboni Younger-Riehl Date: December 18, 2025

Eboni Younger-Riehl, Esq., Reg. #42359 Assistant County Attorney 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 Email: eyounger-riehl@arapahoegov.com Phone: (720) 874-3265

Eboni Younger-Riehl, Esq. #42359 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner

Case No: 25JV316 Division: 22

DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE STATE OF COLORADO 7325 South Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 (303) 649-6355 Telephone

NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING JARIO GUZMAN AND JOHN DOE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Default Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding JARIO GUZMAN AND JOHN DOE is set on JANUARY 12, 2026 at 11:15 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112.

You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and adopt the prepared treatment plan for you in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code, or to determine that there is no appropriate treatment plan.

The Arapahoe County District Court is holding hearings via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation.

Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link:

Published in The Villager Published: December 25, 2025 Legal # 31121 ________________________

PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of: MALIYAH ROSE RECTOR, Child, and concerning, AMBER ROSE LEAMON AND JOHN DOE, Respondents.

Tamra White, Esq., Reg. #22049 Senior Assistant County Attorney 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 Email: twhite@arapahoegov.com Phone (303) 636-1884 Case No: 25JV59 Division: 22 NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING JOHN DOE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Default Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding JOHN DOE is set on January 12, 2026 at 4:15 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112.

You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the children dependent and neglected and adopt the prepared treatment plan for you in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

The Arapahoe County District Court is holding hearings via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link: • https://judicial.webex. com/meet/D18-ARAP-Div22 • Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.

• Select your audio setting. If the audio on your computer or tablet does not work, please use the alternate audio option of calling in to the number below.

• If you do not have a device that will support a video connection, you may still participate by audio only by calling

720-650-7664. When prompted enter Access code: 2594 887 9073 then press #, # (no attendee ID is needed).

If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin.

Date: November 26, 2025 Published in The Villager Published: December 25, 2025 Legal # 31122 ________________________

Misc.

PUBLIC NOTICE

HealthSource of DTC located at 5105 DTC Pkwy, #305 in Greenwood Village has a retention period for medical records of (7) years past the last encounter date. Medical records with a last encounter date of December 31, 2018 or earlier will be destroyed February 13, 2026. Anyone wishing to request their original medical records must call (303) 290-0022 prior to the destruction date.

Published in The Villager First Publication: December 18, 2025 Last Publication: December 25, 2025 Legal # 31119 ________________________

SPECIAL DISTRICTS NOTICE OF FINAL PAYMENT Notice is hereby given that at 12:00 p.m., on or after January 5, 2026, CHERRY CREEK VALLEY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT will make final settlement with T. LOWELL CONSTRUCTION, INC., located at 3212 Dawson Trails Blvd, Castle Rock, CO 80109, in connection with payment for all services rendered, materials furnished, and for all labor performed in and for construction of the S. SYRACUSE WAY AND S. VALENTIA ST. METER VAULT REHABILITATION PROJECT. 1.

Any person, co-partnership, association, or corporations who has unpaid claim against the said project or on account of the furnishing of labor, materials, team hire, sustenance, provision, provender, or other supplies used or consumed by such contractor or any of his subcontractors in or about the performance of said work, may at any time up to and including said time of such final settlement file a verified statement of the amount due and unpaid on account of such claims.

2.

All such claims shall be filed with the Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District, 2325 S. Wabash Street, Denver, CO 80231, on or before the above-mentioned time and date of final settlement.

3.

Failure on the part of a creditor to file such statement prior to such final settlement will relieve the Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District from any and all liability for such claim.

Published in The Villager First Publication: December 25, 2025 Last Publication: January 1, 2026 Legal # 31123 ________________________

December 25, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

It’s Affordability, Stupid?

The “economy” symbolizes survival at its mast basic level. Because it is through an economic system we gather items for our continued existence and more importantly, for the continued survival of our loved ones.

So yes, it’s always the economy (affordability.)

Since the economy is so important to our basic survival, what economic philosophy best promotes and protects that system? Is it more government? Or more private Enterprise? We

need to answer this basic question before promoting another ”solution.”

Politicians would have you believe that another law or rule or some grand federal program will solve all our problems. They would have us believe they can create the perfect government solution to affordability.

Experience and historical rigor says otherwise.

As imperfect and messy as private enterprise, through a free economic system, is, it is infinitely

better than any government solution. Here is the crux of the debate on“affordability.”

The way to attain economic success is via the free exchange of goods and services through a stable and independent economic system. Remember, all money the government spends is taken first from the private citizen. Would it not be more “affordable” if that money were left in the hands of those who actually worked for it?

The choice is binary, there are only two options.

More free enterprise or less.

More government, or less. I submit that no greater pow-

er than our Creator opined on this issue when He created the individual and granted us free will. The power to choose, to decide.

This argument crosses all political boundaries. Few politicians have debated the issue at its fundamental level. Therefore, it is extremely confusing to the voter.

President Trump is a free enterprise guy, then he promotes tariffs. This is a contradiction since all tariffs are paid by the consumer, in this case by the citizen. So, where is the free enterprise in that?

Integrity requires rational thought, intellect. Integrity is consistency between word and deed. If we favor free enterprise and our in-

nate gift of free will, then we will never decide in favor of stealing from others (progressive taxation) or imposing our will on others free choice (law and regulation).

We can have affordability for all, just not by government imposing its will upon us. This is a universal message that every soul understands.

Jay Davidson is founder and CEO of a commercial bank, a student of the Austrian School of Economics and a dedicated capitalist.

There is a direct connection between individual right and responsibility, our Constitution, capitalism, and the intent of our Creator.

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APPPLY TO SERVE ON A CENTENNIAL BOARD, COMMISSION OR COMMITTEE Applictions due at 5 p.m. on Mon., FEB. 2, 2026. Visit Centennial.gov/ boardsandcommissions. Must be a resident of Centennial.

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 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 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.

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.

ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. At Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway,Englewood. Info: Gail 720-3777682.

WHAT’S NEW? BECOME A CONTESTANT IN THE 2026 MS. COLORADO SENIOR AMERICA PAGEANT If you are 60 or older - you qualify as a contestant for the pageant in April 25, 2026. This is not a beauty contest; contestants will compete in a private interview, evening gown, philosophy of life, and talent. The winner will appear at community events, parades and represent Colorado at the national pageant in Atlantic City. Every contestant becomes part of the Colorado Cameo Club, joining an incredible sisterhood that performs throughout the community. Contact Pageant Administrator Rene’ Green at 720-384-6240 or renemcsap@gmail.com www.coloscramerica.com ELLA CHO, a student at St. Mary’s Academy, won first place in the Longmont choral’s 2025 Youth Vocal Competition, grade 10-12 division. She also won the opportunity to perform with the Longmont Chorale at their Dec. 7 holiday concert. Congratulations Ella.

Beginning Tue., JAN. 6, at 4 a.m.

County Line Road will fully close for approximately 100 days between Clarkson & the U-Haul business access. They are moving large quantities of dirt to Lee Gulch. Detours and access will be set up.

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 303-7910338. 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.

BUSINESS NEWS JOSHUA TREE EXPERTS CERTIFIED ARBORISTS Schedule a Winter Arborist Inspection to develop a tree care plan for the winter time.303-229-8777. www. joshuatreeexperts.com/denver-south-co ROGERS & SONS INC. ELEVATED CLIMATE CONTROL Curated Cooling & A/C Services; Radiant Heating & Snow Melt Integration; WholeHome Humidification and more.

Private Consultations: 720-408-7411. https://rogershvac.com CARLA’S A CLASSIC DESIGN From unique gifts to festive decor.

Shop small and local at The Streets at Southglenn, 6851 S. Gaylord St., Centennial. 303-683-0372 EDIE MARKS/KENTWOOD REAL ESTATE Call Edie for for Real Estate Needs. At the top her profession since 1977. 303-9053399.

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 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. 720-457-5113.

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

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.

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

CHERRY HILLS ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE 6325 S University. Blvd., Centennial. Call for Tour 720-592-0252

KIMPTON CLARET HOTEL Host your next special event at The Kimpton Claret. www.clarethotel.com

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.

OWN YOUR STORAGE OR FLEX WAREHOUSE SPACE Visit MYDREAMSTORAGECO.COM

PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION + MORE 5 Star Google Reviews. Transportation

PARKSIDE VILLAGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 14501 E. Crestline Drive, Aurora.

Lunch is on us - schedule your tour today. 720-315-7778 or visit ParksideVillageRetirement.com

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • December 25, 2025

As featured in

Thanks to all for your donations FRIENDS OF NURSING

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.

Remember, you can donate any time of year by visiting individual nonprofit websites.

Every dollar is greatly appreciated.

For contact and donation links see Colorado Gives Day special sections in The Villager 11-20-25, 11-27-25 and 12-4-25 editions.