2-13-25 Villager

Congratulations to Jean and Larry Pisciotta for their vision and their life’s motto: “If you take care of your people, your people will take care of your customers.” - Larry Pisciotta, entrepreneur and founder of Brakes Plus VOLUME 43 • NUMBER 12 • FEBRUARY 13, 2025 $2 per copy Since 1982 www.villagerpublishing.com

Sweetheart Couple of the Year L O C A L

N E W S

M A T T E R S

43 Years of Award-Winning Journalism

Larry & Jean Pisciotta

Jean & Larry at their wedding in 1963

“The most wonderful things in our life have been, and continue to be, our family, friends, and our faith” – Larry Pisciotta

The founders of Brakes Plus celebrate their successful business ventures, love-filled and growing family and their enduring 61 years of marriage.

See their amazing & heartfelt story on pages 8-9.

INQUIRE ABOUT PRINT AND ONLINE SUBSCRIPTIONS & ADVERTISING: 720-270-2018

St. Andrew’s Village is Elevating the Independent Living & Assisted Living Experience to a New Standard.

Trust

720.684.5913 StAndrewsVillageSeniorLiving.com 13801 East Yale Avenue, Aurora, CO 80014 Active Independent Living | Assisted Living Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing Available On-Site*

EXPERIENCE & STABILITY *Skilled Nursing Operated Independently by: The Ensign Group, Inc ©2025 Discovery Management Group. All Rights Reserved. Prices, plans and programs are subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Void where prohibited by law. Managed by Discovery Management Group. Assisted Living Facility License #23G126. 1/25.

PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • February 13, 2025

follow FREDA

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.

BY FREDA MIKLIN

State GOP Committeewoman brings new energy to party regulars New Colorado committeewoman for the Republican National Committee (RNC), Christy Fidura, brought lots of positive energy and hope for the future to the South Metro Republican Breakfast Club (SMRBC - formerly the Arapahoe County Republican Breakfast Club) when she spoke at their regular monthly meeting at Maggiano’s DTC on February 5. She was also not afraid to tell the club members where she stood on national issues and local intraparty disputes.

Pointing to the belief among most that “Colorado is primarily a blue state,” Fidura said, “It’s not going to stop us.

It’s actually going to make us work harder.”

Originally from Aurora, Fidura got involved in politics in Pueblo, where she lives now, 18 years ago. She is a founding member of an unaffiliated conservative group called The

Pueblo County Patriots and was elected to her present position with the national party in April 2024.

Fidura’s goal is to make Colorado a red state, which she believes can be done, “one, by policy, and two, county by county.”

Although she has not yet been assigned to any committees by the RNC, she went to Washington for President Trump’s inauguration. She didn’t get to actually attend any of the events because of long lines and cold weather, but, she said, “Our one goal was to make sure our president was safely sworn into office, and that got done.”

Explaining that she has worked on issues involving election integrity, Fidura said that, “Pueblo County is part of the canvassing report that shows how vulnerable our election systems are in Colorado.” She asked the people

in the room, “How many of you believe we lost the 2020 presidential election? Nobody believes that, right?” According to Fidura, the RNC “shut down that steal this time.”

Turning to her home in Pueblo County, Fidura said, “When you talk about policy, and how far the left has gone, that gives people something to think about. We find that Democrats in Pueblo County lean more toward the middle, where we are as Republicans.”

When the topic of the Colorado Republican Party was raised, Fidura said, “I don’t want to politic but I want to be honest. It was made pretty clear to me when I was elected, and I did not get on board with the pre-primary endorsements, that I had burned friendships and bridges for working relationships with the state party.”

Prior to the June 2024 Republican primary in Colorado, the state GOP endorsed 18 specific candidates in the Republican primary, 14 of whom lost. The losers included state party chair Dave Williams himself, who ran for the Republican nomination for Congress in CD5, which is now represented by the person who beat him, U.S. Rep. Jeff Crank. Historically, the state party had not made pre-primary endorsements. The situation left a lot of hard feelings.

Fidura also shared that after the state party used funds from the National Republican Campaign Committee on the pre-primary endorsements which proved to be mostly fruitless, the NRCC refused to send funds to Colorado for the general election. As a result, U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans, who won the GOP primary for Colorado CD8 over the person the state party endorsed,

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis

Mary Zappone, CEO and Board Director, Sundyne, LLC

Julie Smith, VP of State and Local Government Affairs, Verizon

Debbie Brown, president of COBRT

Steve Schunk, president & CEO of Volunteers of America

that the goal of the program was to “address public policies that cross local, national, and even international boundaries” in a simplified manner that applies to our state, especially as it impacts the business community.

She shared that Colorado is one of the healthiest states, “Our GDP continues to grow, and we’re still seeing folks move here, even though the pace has slowed,” to a 3.2% net increase in the past four years. While we are still viewed as being a highly collaborative state where government is welcoming, challenges we face are the cost of doing business, hous-

ing, and overall affordability.

Panelists for the question-and-answer session with Gov. Polis were leading business executives Julie Smith of Verizon, Mary Zappone of Sundyne, LLC, Shawn Ostroff of Bank of Colorado, and Tim Johnson of Pinnacol Assurance.

Luige Del Puerto, editor of Colorado Politics, served as moderator.

The governor opened his remarks by referencing his “vision for a safer, more affordable, more livable, prosperous Colorado, and the steps we need to take to get there where people can reach their potential…and get

Tim Johnson, Chief HR Officer and VP of Employee Services, Pinnacol Assurance

Shawn Osthoff, president, Bank of Colorado

State of the State with Gov. Polis: Competitiveness, Collaboration, and Growth The Sturm Pavilion at the Denver Art Museum was the setting for the 2025 Colorado Business Roundtable (COBRT) State of the State event, focused on competitiveness, collaboration, and growth, with Colorado Governor Jared Polis. Verizon, Southwest Airlines, and Bank of Colorado sponsored the luncheon for 250 leaders from business, academia, community nonprofits, and government.

Dave Schunk, president and CEO of Volunteers of America and board chair of COBRT, welcomed the crowd. Debbie Brown, president of COBRT, explained

ahead.” He pointed out, “We need housing that people can afford so workers can live closer to job opportunities and businesses can fill their jobs,” noting housing is an ongoing challenge the state’s economic development officials face when recruiting

Christy Fidura

Photo by Freda Miklin

Janak Joshi, had to fundraise in Arizona to pay for his general election campaign. Evans won the general election by 2,449 votes out of 333,616 cast and has already drawn several potential and announced opponents for 2026.

Later, Antoinette Smith, formerly the deputy state director for Americans for Prosperity and director of marketing at the Centennial Institute, told SMRBC members that Brita Horn, previous Routt County treasurer and public trustee, is a candidate for state chair of the Colorado Republican Party. She encouraged support for Horn.

new businesses to Colorado.

Polis pointed to allowing accessory dwelling units, adding more multi-family zoning near transit, and reducing parking requirements as examples of what has already been accomplished Continued on page 3

February 13, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3

State of the State with Gov. Polis Continued from page 2

toward that goal, adding, “This year, we want to streamline the process for modular housing options to build faster at a lower cost, we want to reform construction defects laws so that condos can be built so people can start to build equity (toward affording a larger home). We also want to help faith-based and educational partners to use land they have to build housing.” Lastly, the governor acknowledged these goals need to be met with consideration of impacts to traffic congestion and air quality.

On the topic of public safety, Gov. Polis reminded his audience that, “Three years ago, I established a goal of making Colorado one of the 10 safest states,” adding that property crimes between 2023 and 2024 are

Serving Arapahoe County for 43 Years Keep up on your city, people, politics & social events SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Only $75 year

Call today to order your subscription: 303-773-8313

down by 20,000, which is 15%, automobile theft has decreased by 8,000, which is 26%, and homicides are down by 9%, “But we fully expect that we can do more to keep people, property, and businesses safer.”

Regarding education, Polis pointed to the continuing implementation of the free pre-school program, which saves parents $6,000 a year and allows them to go back to the workforce sooner, adding, “We are also focused on making sure kids graduating from high school have the skills they need to get good jobs through apprenticeships, dual and concurrent enrollment, and certification programs.”

Shawn Osthoff asked the governor about how the banking industry could collaborate with the state to help encourage developers to build more affordable hous-

ing. Gov. Polis said that the single largest impediment is interest rates, which cannot be controlled. Osthoff suggested the state look at “more tax credits or incentives to promote affordable housing.”

When the moderator pointed to the potential 2025-2026 budget deficit, estimated at $600 million to $1 billion, facing Colorado as its legislature goes through the current session, Gov. Polis reminded listeners, “We have a balanced budget requirement every year, so we (the Governor’s Office) submitted a balanced budget.

The Joint Budget Committee (of the legislature) is looking at that. They will take some ideas and slight other ones, but they will also produce a balanced budget. They’re not allowed to produce a budget with a $700 million deficit.”

Mary Zappone asked how

the state planned to improve higher learning. Gov. Polis pointed to the example of the state having recently expanded the welding program at Pueblo Community College by 300 welding booths for high school and college students wishing to learn that trade, which allows some students to finish high school with a welding certificate.

He also noted that, “We’ve made community college in the first years of college (community college is two years) essentially free if you are low and low-middle income. Community college costs $3,000-$3,500 a year if you’re taking a full load, so if you’re making around $60,000-$70,000, that is free to you now.”

Del Porto sought Gov. Polis’ opinion on whether he believed comprehensive immigration reform is possible this year or in the next four years. The governor responded, “I sure hope so,” suggesting the question would be

better put to the state’s congressional delegation.

Julie Smith wanted to know if the state had considered increased penalties for the theft and vandalism of critical infrastructure like copper that directly impacts the telecommunications industry, noting that type of theft can take the entire network down, causing a significant safety concern.

Polis stated he supported increased penalties for that type of crime. Smith added that those crimes also impact the oil and gas industry.

On regulating Artificial Intelligence (AI), Polis said, “It needs to be national. The worst possible scenario is that you have 50 different compliance regimes across 50 different states. That’s a prescription for making America laggard in AI, rather than a leader.” He said that Congress needs to “balance the interest that promotes innovation and inspires consumer confidence.”

C NVERSATIONS ARAPAHOE COUNTY County offices closed All County offices will be closed Monday, Feb. 17 in observance of the Presidents Day holiday.

Learn about composting Learn how to start and maintain your own backyard compost at a free class held at Mission Viejo Library in Aurora, Feb. 22, 11 a.m.–noon. Register now at https://bit.ly/CSU_Compost or scan the QR code with your smartphone.

Share your passion–Get involved today!

Apply now to serve on the Cultural Council

Visit arapahoeco.gov/getinvolved for more information.

arapahoeco.gov

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

WEEK OF FEB 10

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • February 13, 2025

Nathan Yip Foundation’s Chinese New Year Gala celebrates Year of the Snake

Cocktail reception, divine family-style Chinese dinner, red envelopes, auction, night market and after party!

Lions gathered at the stage after a dancing procession leading guests to the ballroom

There was even a roving robot to take pictures

Honoree Jimmy Yip does the traditional Salad Toss to start the meal with Nathan’s godparents Stephanie and Kevin Tung Event Chairs Bruce and Lisa McDonald toss the salad at the Grand Hyatt Denver with Honoree Linda Yip in her statement purple.

Rosalina and Richard Diecidue Board Chair Alan Frosh was a friend/classmate of Nathan at Kent Denver

Cynthia and Dr. Larry Chan

Emcee Anne Trujillo

Seated: Joanne Davidson, Earl Wright, Susan Hodson and Bill Moyes, Lynnette Morrison.

Standing: Yvonne Koh, Presenting Sponsor Melly Kinnard, Craig and Becca Kinard

February 13, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

Honoring Founders Linda and Jimmy Yip, named for their late son Nathan With the mission of Empowering Rural Colorado’s K-12 Schools and Students

“I hope Nathan would be proud of how his dream has touched so many lives.”

– Linda Yip

The Yips late son Nathan, who died in a tragic accident The audience cheered at this photo in the poignant video Linda & in 2001, cared deeply about kids and education. In 2002, Jimmy Yip “In Their Own Words” produced by Mike Kalush and Nathan Yip Foundation (NYF) was born focusing on rural Christine Gillette showing the hotties – Jimmy and Linda on screen.

No wonder their son Nathan was so handsome!

Photo Courtesy of the Yips China and later closer to home – in rural Colorado.

Photo Courtesy of the Yips

Bruce and Lisa McDonald (NYF Board member) chaired the multi-faceted event

Mieko Nakamura surrounded by Nancy and Bob Koontz

The Yip Family

Current and Emeritus Board Members Lyn and Dr. Michael Schaffer, Melly Kinnard, Skip and Jane Netzorg were recognized for helping secure a $130,000 endowment

Representatives of some of the rural schools in Colorado served by Nathan Yip Foundation: Samantha Wisener (teacher at Ortega Middle School in Alamosa), Ray Hirman (assistant principal at Olathe Middle School in Olathe), Christine Mikeljack (teacher at Center Schools), Mackenzie Moraine (student at San Juan Mountain School in Pagosa Springs), Stewart Bellina (principal at San Juan Mountain Yvonne Koh (center) surrounded by her son’s fiancée Tara Smith, her School in Pagosa Springs), JR Monks (artist and educator – Eastern Plains), Jennifer Lamph (teacher at son Alex Hinesley, her daughter Megan and husband James Pellitteri Hoff Elementary School in Keenesburg)

Opinion

PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • February 13, 2025

Happy Feb. 13 Birthday Bob, from The Villager Staff example, Attorney Kim Bondi could become the first female president It been a fast three of The United weeks for the new Trump States. Vice-Presadministration. President ident Vance could Trump is delivering to

BY BOB SWEENEY well move up to voters on his election PUBLISHER the presidency. At promises. Most Republithis point in time, it appears cans are cheering, Democrats that the GOP has most of the are shocked at the speed and nation’s leadership. I don’t sweeping changes from the see many rising stars on the new regime. So far, all of Democrat side of the aisle in Trump’s cabinet nominees Washington D.C. Probably have been approved by the three of the strongest potential senate and several squeaking candidates could come from by committees by single votes. Colorado with Gov. Polis lookSo far it appears that Trump ing for a new job and either has selected a powerful array of our United States Senators, of talent for his cabinet and Bennet and Hickenlooper are many government agencies. rising stars. This team has been Looking ahead, four years very effective in bringing grafrom now, one of these cabinet vy train spending to Colorado leaders could be the next pres- in the last four years including ident of the United States. For returning the Space Force to

President Trump is delivering on his promises

Estab lishe d 1978

DREAM. DESIGN. DELIVER.

Revitalize your home in style F r e e C o n s u l t a tio n a n d E s t i mat e V IS IT OUR S H OWROOM: 4 1 5 1 S o u t h Na t c h e s C t , E n g l e w o o d C O 8 0 1 1 0 b kc ki t c h e n an d b at h . c o m | 3 0 3 . 7 6 1 . 7 4 7 7

Colorado Springs.

In looking at the Colorado governor’s race in 2026 it appears that Attorney General Phil Weiser is a shoo-in for election to replace outgoing Gov. Polis. I’ve heard him speak on several occasions and one of his strongest points is his knowledge on Colorado water. This is a huge issue for our state and downstream Colorado water compacts. The lower basin states want more Colorado water.

I don’t see any other Colorado Democrats that can defeat him, and few Republican candidates want to face the overwhelming Democratic influx of voters making Colorado a solid blue state. Republican leaders, that I know, all say the same thing…too many Democrat voters to win a statewide election. It is rather interesting to see rural Colorado largely Republican with Denver and the metro counties all swinging to Democrat majority and office holders. Colorado has prospered being a strong blue state under the Biden administration but may suffer under a new Trump administration and cuts in government spending. Colorado is loaded with federal employees, second highest number in the nation.

I think that President Trump knows that he is in jeopardy of assassination; that is one reason why he is moving so rapidly to put new leadership in place for the next four years and beyond. While he talks too much and thinks out loud, many of his ideas have merit. Already, he has performed some major changes in the Panama Canal, closed the border, freed some hostages, suggesting that the

United States clean up Gaza and relocate the Palestinian population… at least temporarily while the area is rebuilt.

He has indicated that American taxpayers would not pay for the restoration but private enterprise from potential developers. It is a novel concept as the two-state concept has failed miserably. Gaza was owned by Egypt before the 1967, six-day war, when the Israelis defeated the Arab forces and took over the strip of land once a British property.

Trump will move fast to end the war in Ukraine and develop peaceful relationships with Russia and North Korea. American will compete economically with China and we will have peace through strength. There is a very serious threat looming with Iran developing nuclear weapons and their threats to destroy Isreal.

There are some tough times ahead with the migrants. Many who would desire to hold jobs, like farm labor, health care, and possible military service could earn citizenship. Maybe, after the criminal elements are removed, there can be some new programs for earning citizenship. Certainly, the “dreamers” should be made citizens to end that controversy.

When you see the long list of government wasteful spending it is time for some changes.

News reports are indicating that only ten percent of funding ever reaches those in need.

Trump is an agent for change.

America must once again find solid financial footing and have a balanced budget.

It won’t be easy, but we can’t keep borrowing money to fund all the world’s conflicts and failing leadership.

America should come first.

Hurrah for President Trump!

Congratulations Michelle!

Congratulations to Michelle Gruber with First American State Bank for being nominated as an American Heart Association 2025 Colorado Woman of Impact Nominee.

COLORADO

Michelle Gruber Vice President First American State Bank

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

First American State Bank is proud to support the American Heart Association’s Colorado Woman of Impact Campaign.

The Villager

Office: 6972 S. Vine St., Suite 363, Centennial, CO 80122 • (303) 773-8313 A legal newspaper of general circulation in Arapahoe County, Colorado. (USPS 431-010) Published weekly by the Villager Publishing Co., Inc. 6972 S. Vine St., Suite 363, Centennial, CO 80122. Available for home or office delivery by U.S. Mail for $75 per year. Single copies available for $2 per issue.

PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID IN LITTLETON, CO. AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. A Colorado Statutory Publication CRS (197324-70 et al).

USPS # 431010 ISSN 1539-6274 (Print) ISSN 2993-7280 (Online) Postmaster: Send address changes to The Villager, 6972 S. Vine St., Suite 363, Centennial, CO 80122 Deadlines: Display Advertising, Legal Notices, press releases, letters to the editor, 4:00 p.m. Friday.

Classified Advertising, noon Monday.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Gerri Sweeney gerri@villagerpublishing.com PUBLISHER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR 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 Tom 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!”

2024 Member

QUOTE of the WEEK QUOTE of the WEEK Remember that

the most valuable antiques are dear old friends.

– H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

February 13, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

follow FREDA

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.

BY FREDA MIKLIN

State Rep. Chad Clifford talks Prop. 130, housing, and home rule at GV town hall

council has emphasized in communications to its residents for the past two years, as the governor and the legislature have proposed measures to increase the housing supply, including in GV, near light rail. Like

HD37 State Rep. Chad Clifford

Since being appointed and subsequently elected, without opposition, to represent state House District 37 in the general assembly, Rep. Chad Clifford (D) has been extremely accessible. He has held numerous town halls and attended multiple city council meetings in Greenwood Village and Centennial, just to listen and be available for questions. He starts his town hall events by giving out his personal cell phone, which he answers.

On January 30, Rep. Clifford held a town hall meeting at Greenwood Village City Hall and stayed for two hours, until no one in the room could think of any more questions. Unlike most similar events that start with elected officials providing a detailed rundown of what they want their constituents to know, Clifford opened the floor to questions almost immediately.

Since he has a law enforcement background, The Villager asked Clifford about Proposition 130, passed by Colorado voters in November. It directed the general assembly to allocate $350 million to recruit, train,

Map of Colorado House District 37

and retain local law enforcement officers. It did not name a funding source to do so. The language said the money was to come from the state’s general fund, meaning something else (e.g., health care, roads, higher education) would have to be cut to fund the activities named in the measure.

Clifford responded to the 50 people present, “If anybody tells you they have an idea about how we’re (allocating that money), they are not accurate. Even though we’ve been at work on that issue since it was passed by the voters, we are still kind of at day one.” He also said, “There’s nothing in the measure that says we have to do it in one year. The proposals that I’m working on right now have it on a seven-year timeline.”

Proposition 130 was also raised in a January 27 draft letter from the Joint Budget Committee (JBC) of the legisla-

ture to Gov. Polis, Sec. of State Griswold, State Treasurer Dave Young, Attorney General Phil Weiser, State Supreme Court Chief Justice Monica Marquez, and the leadership of the State Board of Education, citing it as one of the reasons the JBC is facing a potential state budget deficit of “approximately $1.0 billion for FY 2025-26.” A source directly involved with the issue told The Villager that Clifford is correct, the ballot measure language meant that the money need not be spent in one year, but the general assembly is sensitive to the fact that the people who voted for it expect the $350 million to be spent as soon as possible.

GV City Council Member Paul Wiesner asked Clifford about “the philosophical issue of home rule,” which was also on the mind of many of the community members who attended the meeting, likely because it is a topic their city

other cities, GV leadership has jealously guarded its home rule authority over the right to make land use and zoning policies, without interference from the state.

GV’s housing inventory is generally comprised of pricey single-family homes and rental apartments. The apartments are primarily clustered in one area east of I-25, with the larger single-family homes occupying most of the rest of the city. GV does not have much “middle housing,” including for-sale townhomes, condos, and single-family starter homes. That explains the average citywide home price of $1.5 million. GV residents who are empty nesters have long complained about being unable to downsize and stay in the area.

Wiesner explained it as, “Greenwood Village and other cities like to have control over certain issues that are within their boundaries because it’s

what their citizens want. They don’t want the ‘long arm of the state’ reaching over and attacking certain things.” He named zoning as one of those issues, also pointing out that, “GV takes a much harder stance on shoplifting. We will go after and we will prosecute and lock people up.”

Clifford responded, “I am a massive proponent of home rule authority. It is in the state constitution.” He also pointed out that when he knows a bill is going to pass, regardless of what he does, he uses his energy to get what he views as needed changes to it. One example was HB24-1313 Housing in Transit-Oriented Communities, a bill which the GV City Council actively worked against, but which passed the state House on a final vote of 40-24. Before he voted against the measure, Clifford worked to get certain provisions removed from it. He said, “If it had passed the way they wanted it to pass, it would have destroyed Greenwood Village. They wanted us to stack up housing all along the transit corridor. I was brand new in the legislature and fighting with the Governor’s Office for Greenwood Village on this issue. I went to bat for this city.”

The topic of Construction Defects legislation also came up during the town hall. Clifford said the problem is that insurance for condo builders is too expensive or unobtainable under the current law, resulting in very few being built. He said, “I think middle housing is the most important thing we should be working on in this area…If your kids graduate from high school here, they are not going to live here. They can’t afford to buy a house. With a $115,000/ year job, they can buy in Erie or Douglas County, but not around here.”

Democrat Manny Rutinel announces for Congressional District Eight in 2026 Adams County State Rep. Manny Rutinel, a first generation American raised by a single mother, worked at McDonald’s in high school and as a substitute teacher through college. He went on to earn a Master’s degree in economics from Johns Hopkins University and a law degree from Yale Law School.

On Monday, January 27, Rutinel announced that he plans to run for Congress in CD8 in November 2026, hoping to earn the Democratic nomination to challenge first-term Republican Gabe Evans, who beat former firstterm Democrat Yadira Cara-

veo in her bid for re-election in November 2024.

According to reports, Rutinel raised around $400,000 from 4,000 individual donors in the first 24 hours after making his announcement, and that number rose to over $500,000 one day later.

Other Democrats who are believed to be considering a run for CD8 in 2026 are State Treasurer Dave Young, who is term-limited, State Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet, and Adams County Commissioner Steve O’Dorisio.

The eighth congressional district was formed after Colorado’s Independent Re-

districting Commission (IRC) began functioning in earnest, and based on the closeness of the first two races in CD8 (2022 and 2024), the IRC appears to be fulfilling its mission of being nonpartisan.

In 2022, former U.S. Rep. Yadira Caraveo beat Republican State Sen. Barabara Kirkmeyer by 1,632 votes out of 250,269 cast, a margin of 0.65%. In 2024, current U.S. Rep. Gabe Evans beat Caraveo in her bid for re-election to a second term by 2,449 votes out of 333,609 cast, a margin of 0.73%.

Rutinel was appointed to represent state House District

32 in the general assembly by a vacancy committee in October 2023, when Sen. Michaelson Jenet resigned the seat after she was appointed to the state Senate by another vacancy committee to replace former state Sen. Dominick Moreno, who resigned to serve in the administration of Denver Mayor Mike Johnston.

In November 2024, both Rutinel and Michaelson Jenet won election to the seats to which they had been previously appointed.

The current Colorado delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives is comprised

State Rep. Manny Rutinel

of four Democrats, Diana DeGette (CD1), Joe Neguse (CD2), Jason Crow (CD6), and Brittany Pettersen (CD7), and four Republicans, Jeff Hurd (CD3), Lauren Boebert (CD4), Jeff Crank (CD5), and Gabe Evans (CD8). Both our state’s U.S. Senators, Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, are Democrats.

of Sweetheart Couple the Year

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • February 13, 2025

“We are very lucky to have each other.”

– Larry Pisciotta Sweethearts for 61 years and still counting… no “brakes” needed!

Larry & Jean Pisciotta

BY LARRY PISCIOTTA

Beautiful Jean

Friday Night Dinner Club Group

My love affair with Jeannie Collins happened many years ago. At the age of 6, my mom and dad moved from their family farm to the City of Pueblo. It so happened that Jeannie was a neighbor living across the alley from us. One of my best memories was playing doctor and nurse and kicking Jean & the can! It was in high school that I really Larry noticed her, so I asked her to give me some at their help in a history class. She had a great smile wedding in and I really was not interested in help with 1963 the class, but I was more interested in going out with her. Yes, it was love at first sight! She had many friends and admirers, plus a steady boyfriend. After two months of calling her to ask her out, she finally said “yes.”

However, on our planned first date, I stood her up as it was snowing, and I had a hot car and did not want to get into an accident. I should have called.

It took another two weeks to express how sorry I was. Finally, I got another “yes” answer. Hate to say it but our first real date was a “drive-in-theater.” We were on and off again through high school, and she was one of four girls up for football queen. She still reminds me that she would have won if I was a better Jean & Larry in their football star. Jean was a great athlete, but they had favorite mountain town limited sports for girls at that time. of Crested Butte I loved baseball and also wrestling. Jean and I later had three boys who were very good in sports. Dean good in wrestling and baseball for Cherry Creek.

Mark basketball and baseball, plus, went to college on a baseball scholarship. RJ was MVP in a Colorado

Left to right – The Vestals, Pisciottas, Conways, Pizzoferratos, and Newtons in Mexico

State Championship football game and scored three touchdowns, plus he won the State Championship in wrestling his Junior and Senior year at Cherry Creek.

Off to college for Jean and me. Jean went to the University of Colorado for her Freshman year, then decided to take a break and was hired by the Red Cross; she loved that job. After my Junior year at the University of Denver, we got married. We had a big wedding, of course, lots of Italians, and Jean said she had never been kissed so many times!

We moved to Denver to finish my Senior year where I was majoring in finance and business management. Jean found a job in a bank to keep us afloat. We had so much fun with other married couples. In fact, my roommates also married their childhood sweethearts after their junior years, and we all three graduated together from DU. Plus, all three of us are still married, good friends, and all going on 62 years of happy times.

I was hired out of college by Firestone Tire Company and my first assignment was in Los Angeles. Jean cried all the way to L.A. but once there, she fell in love with sunny California. We met so many wonderful people, both of us enjoyed watching the L.A. Dodgers and the Lakers. We had a chance to go back to Denver for a business promotion with Firestone. Jean cried all the way back to Colorado.

This is where we raised our children and were able to spend time with our families. Staying together has been easy, and we had fun seeing the success of our boys. Jean and I have always been close, we enjoy being with one another, and both laugh and cry together. We are very lucky to have each other.

February 13, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

Larry at his First Communion

Larry and Jean Pisciotta were born in Pueblo, Colorado; native Coloradans committed to their family and community.

The Pisciotta’s were married after their junior year of college. Upon graduating from the University of Denver, Larry was recruited by Firestone Tire and Rubber to become part of their 1964 Management Training Program.

The happily married couple began their first adventure in Los Angeles, California where Larry worked at the Firestone corporate headquarters in the finance & credit department. Larry and Jean then moved back to Colorado in 1967, with their first son, Dean, and began a partnership with Firestone that would span more than 15 years and develop into one of the largest tire dealerships in the Mountain West region. In 1983, with three children, Larry became the District manager of the Mountain West region.

In 1990, Larry founded Brakes Plus.

Larry and Jean’s three sons were instrumental

in the growth of Brakes Plus; Larry being Chairman, Dean serving as President, Mark in charge of marketing and store operations, R.J. as VP of sales, and Jean being instrumental in the family operation and growth. In 2017, Brakes Plus was acquired by Mavis Tire out of New York together with a private equity group making the merged companies the largest auto repair and tire company in the United States.

Mavis Tire kept R.J. as President of Brakes Plus and now has 164 stores and over 2,200 stores including the Mavis and Express Oil Change brands. After the sale in 2017, the family formed a real estate investment and development company.

Larry and Jean enjoy traveling and Larry continues to fly fish; plus, both love and hate golf!! They spend their winters in Palm Springs but continue to remain active in the Denver community. Larry continues to be involved in Aurora Rotary, now for nearly 50 years, along with other foundations. Larry

and Jean’s favorite charity is Gold Crown Foundation, founded by Larry’s sister and her husband, Fran and Ray Baker, which works with kids to provide opportunities through sports and enrichment programs. Larry and Jean love the Catholic charities, especially the Dominican’s redevelopment of their beautiful church, they were involved in its remodel.

Their “retirement” has been enjoyed with several trips, including Italy and Sicily with brother Ray and his wife Georgia.

More recently, Larry and Jean’s life has changed a bit as Jean was diagnosed with a form of Parkinson called PSP. Jean’s mobility has declined but miraculously has kept a wonderful sense of humor. “Once in a while we find ourselves crying, but mostly we find ourselves filled with laughter and a great sense of thanks for all the wonderful times we’ve had including our Friday night dinners with 5 of our closest couples.

The most wonderful things in our life have been, and continue to be, our family, friends, and and faith.”

BELOW: Larry’s first job at Firestone

At Mark’s baptism with son Dean

R.J., Larry, Dean, and Mark all in Brakes Plus business together

What makes a successful marriage?

Jean - How is it possible to make 61 years of marriage? Don’t tell Lar but he often doesn’t know what he is saying or doing. Therefore, it is easy for me to forgive him when we argue. Lar is much fun, especially on vacation, so we took a lot of short trips to save the marriage. Work came first and he always has and continues to include me in all our endeavors, he asks my opinion and respects my thoughts.

P.S. It was love at second sight. - Loves, Jeannie Larry - Wow! 61 years of marriage entails a little luck. We are an awesome match both liking sports, maybe she more than me. We seemed to find sports that we participated in together, such as tennis, golf and even fishing. Jean’s good common sense has always been a plus, as I presented my business ideas to her, and she gave her take on them. I always appreciate her opinion. We are good partners, even in business. We have so many friends and a special Friday Night group. Five couples get Grandkids with Pa & Mimi together every Friday night, plus took vacations together. These friendships have been important to our marriage. Best yet, Jean continues to be forgiving… She has to, or I Left to right: Nick Pisciotta, Jacey Pisciotta, Jack Pisciotta, Mitch Pisciotta, Grace Pisciotta Eldest son Dean and wife Colleen; Larry and Jean; middle son Mark and wife (baby) Gordon Pisciotta (back black shirt) Chloe Pisciotta (green shirt) Paige Pisciotta Marci; youngest son R.J. and wife Kelly. will not let her go to sleep mad. P.S. Love at first sight. - Lar

Larry’s brother Ray and his wife Georgia, with Jean and Larry in Sicily

Thank you Mom and Dad for being supportive, loving role models, personally and professionally.

- Your loving and proud sons, Dean, Mark, RJ, nine grandchildren and extended family.

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • February 13, 2025

Panera Bread has closed at Orchard & Holly in GV

13th Annual “The Journey” Evening Fundraiser Fri., Mar. 7 Support women and families in Denver at Moonlight Masquerade

Apply to join the Arapahoe Libraries Board of Trustees!

Do you love the library?

Make a difference! Arapahoe Libraries invites community members to apply for an open position on its board of trustees. Applications are open online now through Friday, February 28, at 4 p.m.

Applicants must be residents of the Arapahoe Library District and be able to attend monthly meetings.

Experience interpreting financial statements is encouraged.

The Arapahoe Libraries Board of Trustees oversees the library budget, facilities and policies that guide its

operations. Trustees serve a term of three years, renewable for up to three terms, and are not paid for the work they do for the library district.

Help us provide the best possible library service to our community. To learn more, call 303-LIBRARY (303-542-7279) or visit arapahoelibraries.org/ board-of-trustees.

About Arapahoe Libraries: Arapahoe Libraries includes eight community libraries, a jail library and a Bookmobile in Arapahoe County, Colorado.

APPLY TODAY! ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES BOARD OF TRUSTEES Apply online by Friday, February 28, at 4 p.m.

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

Join the Junior League of Denver (JLD) for The Journey, an exciting evening fundraiser, on Friday, March 7 at Mile High Station!

Featuring a Moonlight Masquerade theme, guests will enjoy a cocktail hour, dinner with wine courtesy of Blanchard Family Wines, a program to celebrate the League’s mission and community work on the eve of International Women’s Day, fantastic live and silent auctions, and entertainment provided by Wash Park Band at the JLD’s 13th annual event! Mekialaya White with CBS Colorado will emcee the evening, and Halie Behr will serve as auctioneer.

“We are thrilled to host our annual Journey fundraising event on the eve of International Women’s Day,” said 2024-2025 JLD President Carson Maczuzak. “Funds raised will help us continue to lift up women in our community, both our own members and the women and families we serve through our programs, partnerships and advocacy work.”

Proceeds enable the League to continue its mission to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training. Funds also support the JLD’s community efforts to Purchase tickets/tables disrupt the cycle More info: JLD.org of systemic povor 303-692-0270 erty for women and families in Denver.

In addition to a variety 2025, 6 p.m.

What: Cocktail hour, of signature programs, dinner, program, live enfunds raised by events tertainment help the JLD provide Where: Mile High Stasubstantial financial and tion volunteer support to its Tickets: General Adcommunity partners. mission $180 by Jan. 31 Learn more about the JLD’s community impact, ($205 starting Feb. 1) VIP $230 (includes current programs, and adprivate cocktail hour and vocacy work. additional benefits to be announced) THE JOURNEY 2025 Purchase tickets/tables DETAILS More info: JLD.org or When: Friday, March 7, 303-692-0270

Who We Are The Junior League of Denver (JLD) is a women’s training organization that empowers women to become civic leaders and impactful community volunteers. We are currently working to disrupt the cycle of systemic poverty for women and families in Denver. Founded in 1918, the League started, and aided in starting, many well-known Denver institutions including Children’s Museum of Denver, Mile High Transplant Bank, Red Rocks concerts and many others.

February 13, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

” ‘Women’s sports’ needs policies.

And Kelley Robinson, president of the largest LGBTQ lobbying organizamore than Trump’s EO political tion in the nation, the Human Karoline Leavitt is absolutely right.

When her boss signed the Executive Order titled “No Men in Women’s Sports” last week, the youngest White House Press Secretary in history said: “It’s incredibly important Congress immediately acts on this priority. I think the President is really setting the tone, making this a very immediate priority . . .”

Trump’s order restoring female sports competition to born-females only (along with such things as the sanctity of their locker rooms) is overdue.

But Leavitt’s point is that it could be as temporary as The Donald’s four-year term unless Congress enacts a similar law before he leaves office.

She’s certainly not Riley Gaines, the collegiate swimmer-turned-activist who has led the resistance to the idea of males who say they’re females competing against athletes who have been female since birth.

But Leavitt knows a thing or two about women’s athletic competition.

She entered St. Anselm College, a small, private Benedictine liberal arts institution in New Hampshire, on a softball scholarship in 2016.

As a freshman outfielder she was fourth on the team in home runs (3) and runs bat-

ted in (14), playing in 34 games, 30 of them starts.

Her interests gravitated away from sports to politics and government after she played another year of softball. While at St. Anselm she interned at Fox News, and after graduation became assistant White House press secretary under Kayleigh McEnaney during Trump’s first term.

According to govinfowatch, a service of the U.S. Government Publishing Office: “An executive order can be revoked or modified by the president who issued it or a successor; by an act of Congress, if the president was acting on authority granted by Congress; or by a court ruling that the order was illegal or unconstitutional.”

Trump’s order predictably drew plenty of praise but dissent, too.

“It’s amazing that such an executive order is necessary . . .” said Gaines after the signing.

“I hate that the Democrats totally failed women and girls on this very clear issue of women’s sports being for females only,” added tennis great Martina Navratilova, a lifelong Democrat but staunch defender of fairness in women’s sports.

At the same time a Washington Post headline declared, “Trump’s new ban on athletes is latest attack on transgender

Rights Campaign, said in a statement: “For so many students, sports are about finding somewhere to belong, not partisan policies that make life harder for them.”

She also asserted (without proof) that Trump’s order “exposes young people to harassment and discrimination, emboldening people to question the gender of kids who don’t fit a narrow view of how they’re supposed to dress or look.”

Rebutting that sentiment, the creator of Harry Potter, author J.K. Rowling, took to the social media platform X to express blistering condemnation of all on the left, which includes Robinson. Accompanying a photo of applauding female athletes surrounding Trump as he signed the order, Rowling wrote: “Congratulations to every single person on the left who’s been campaigning to destroy women’s and girls’ rights.

Without you, there’d be no images like this.”

Rowling also wrote, in part: “Gender ideology has undermined . . . women’s and girls’ safety, privacy and dignity . . .”

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), never known to boldly break ground on any even remotely controversial subject, “updated” its participation policy in response to Trump‘s order.

The new policy allows only student-athletes assigned “female” at birth to participate in “women’s sporting competitions.”

NCAA President Charlie Baker, in a statement, waffled: “We strongly believe that clear, consistent, and uniform eligibility standards would best serve today’s student-athletes instead of a patchwork of conflicting state laws and court decisions.

To that end, President Trump’s order provides a clear, national standard.”

Winner of 18 Grand Slam singles titles, including nine at Wimbledon, Navratilova—who has been openly gay since 1981 and is an activist for gay rights—nonetheless called for Democrats to support legislation that would codify Trump’s executive order.

“More Dems need to step up here,” she said. “I know many who agree but are scared to speak up because of re-election. I say, do the right thing. Grow a spine.”

Karoline Leavitt agrees. And so do I. ______________ Denny Dressman’s 17th book, a collaboration with Kansas City artist Anthony High titled Black Baseball’s Heyday – Capturing An Era in Art and Words, will be published in late spring. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@comcast.net.

THE RED BARN RANCH

SOLD

3883 E FOX TRAIL, GREENWOOD VILLAGE. NAMED FOR ITS NEARLY 100 YEAR OLD RED BARN ON THE HIGHLINE CANAL (JUST NORTH OF ORCHARD ROAD) THIS EXTRAORDINARY “MODERN FARMHOUSE PROPERTY” BUILT IN 2017 SITS ON A 2.5 ACRE COMPLEX THAT IS A ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY. $5,300,000

7846 VILLAGE RD. PARKER CO

IN CLOSE-IN, HIDDEN VILLAGE COMMUNITY, PARKER, COLORADO. 5400 SQ FT WALKOUT RANCH HOME, 4 STALL BARN, FULLY FENCED PASTURES. 10 ACRE PROPERTY. VALUE PRICED AT $1,299,000.

BATELEUR

BATELEUR - BACKING TO OPEN SPACE. WALK OUT BASEMENT MAIN FLOOR PRIMARY BEDROOM LIGHT BRIGHT AND REMODELED. $2,000,000

COUNTRY LANE LIVING IN GREENWOOD VILLAGE - 3400 WILLIAMETTE LANE $7,300,000

SOLD

Kentwood.com/EdieMarks

AT THE TOP OF HER PROFESSION SINCE 1977 TOP 1.5% OF AGENTS IN THE USA

PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • February 13, 2025

LEGALS

Because the public has a right to know 1st place - 2018

1st place - 2018, 2nd place - 2023

COURTS County Court Arapahoe County, Colorado Court Address: 7325 S Potomac St #100 Centennial, CO 80112 In re to the Marriage of: Petitioner: CLAUDIA IVETTE PRADO and Respondent: JORGE LUIS PRADO IBARRA ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER: Kelsey A. Layman, #55158 NEW LEAF FAMILY, a division of ANDERSONDODSON, P.C. 14143 Denver West Parkway, Suite 100-50 Golden, Colorado 80401 Phone: 720-647-7158 Email: klayman@andersondodson.com Case Number: 2025DR30018 Division: 35 Courtroom: SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION TO: JORGE LUIS PRADO IBARRA You are hereby summoned and required to file with the Clerk of the Court an answer or other response to the Petition filed in this case. You are required to file your answer or response on or before March 27, 2025, in the Arapahoe County Court, Centennial, Colorado.

Please take notice that an Initial Status Conference is scheduled to be held on February 7, 2025 at 11 a.m. in the above referenced Court to be conducted via Webex.

The nature of this action is a proceeding in rem.

The relief sought by the Petitioner is a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

After 91 days from the date of service or publication, the Court may enter a Decree affecting your marital status, distribution of property and debts, issues involving children such as child support, allocation of parental responsibilities (decision-making and parenting time), maintenance (spousal support), attorney fees, and costs to the extent the Court

has jurisdiction.

If you fail to file a Response in this case, any or all of the matters above, or any related matters which come before this Court, may be decided without further notice to you.

The court has issued a Case Management Order on January 7, 2025, that contains important information and pertinent deadlines.

This full document is available to you through the court record.

Dated at Denver, Colorado, this 27th day of January 2025.

NEW LEAF FAMILY By: /s/ Kelsey A. Layman Kelsey A. Layman CO Atty. Reg. No. 55158 ATTORNEY FOR PETITIONER Published in The Villager First Publication: January 30, 2025 Last Publication: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11719 ___________________________ DISTRICT COURT ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO Arapahoe County Justice Center 7325 S. Potomac St Centennial, CO 80112 .................

DATE February 6, 2025 1:20 PM CASE NUMBER: 2024CV30755 THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO, Petitioner - Plaintiff, v.

MAYKIN RONALDO ........

MELENDEZ-ZUNIGA, .................... and any unknown persons who may claim any interest in the subject matter of this action, to wit: $13,025.00, in United States Currency, Respondent – Defendant(s) CITATION TO SHOW CAUSE WHY CONTRABAND PROPERTY SHOULD NOT BE FORFEITED CASE NUMBER: 2024CV30755 Div./Ctrm.: 202

THIS MATTER comes before the court pursuant to §16-13-501, et seq., C.R.S., as a Petition in Forfeiture seeking a Citation to Show Cause Why Div./Ctrm.: 202Div./Ctrm.: 202Contraband Pro Div./Ctrm.: 202 Div./Ctrm.: 202 Div./ Ctrm.: Property Should Not Be Forfeited, brought by the District Attorney for the Eighteenth Judicial District, State of Colorado.

The Court has examined the Petition and the supporting affidavit and has considered the PetitionerPlaintiff’s request for the issuance of a Citation to Show Cause.

The Court is satisfied that the Petitioner-Plaintiff has shown probable cause that the seized property in this action, as described in the caption above, is contraband property subject to seizure, confiscation, and forfeiture pursuant to §16-13-501, et seq., C.R.S. The Court finds that each named Respondent-Defendant in the caption is the only person or persons known to have, an interest in, or to have asserted and interest in, the subject matter of the action.

§16-13-505(7), C.R.S. WARNING: If you wish to have the subject property returned to you, you must respond to this Citation to Show Cause. You are warned that, pursuant to §1613-505(1.7)(b) and (8), C.R.S., if you fail to file a response to the Petition in Forfeiture in accordance with §16-13- 505(2)(d), or if you fail to appear personally, by counsel, or as otherwise directed by the Court at the first appearance, pursuant to §1613-505(8), C.R.S., judgment by default shall be entered against you by the Court forthwith for the relief demand in the Petition in Forfeiture, without further notice and any interest you may have in the subject property will be lost forever.

Pursuant to §16-13-505(2)(d), C.R.S., the responsive pleading shall be designated a response to petition and citation to show cause and shall be filed with the court at or before the first appearance on the petition and shall include: (I) A statement admitting or denying the averments of the petition; (II) A statement setting forth with particularity why the seized property should not be forfeited. The statement shall include specific factual and legal ground7s supporting it and any affirmative defense to forfeiture as provided in this part 5.

(III) A list of witnesses whom the respondent intends to call at the hearing on the merits, including the addresses and telephone numbers thereof; and (IV) A verified statement, supported by documentation, that the claimant is the true owner of the property or an interest therein.

The Court, therefore, issues this citation: THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE RESPONDENT-DEFENDANT: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED AND ORDERED TO APPEAR for a first appearance on this case in the District Court in and for the Eighteenth Judicial District, State of Colorado, at the Arapahoe County Justice Center, 7325 S. Potomac St., Centennial, Colorado 80112 in Division/Courtroom 202, on April 4, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., and to show cause, if any there be, why the court should not grant the relief requested in the Petition in Forfeiture served herewith, which seeks the forfeiture of the subject matter property described in the caption above, which was seized on the date of 2/28/2023, at or near the location 519 Sable Blvd, Aurora, Arapahoe County, Colorado 80011, Arapahoe County, State of Colorado. Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is the agency holding the seized subject matter property.

The Court orders that this citation may be served by certified mail, in accordance with

You are advised that, pursuant to §16-13-505(5) C.R.S.: “Continuance of the hearing on the merits shall be granted upon stipulation of the parties or upon good cause shown.”

DONE this 6th day of February, 2025 B _ D Published in The Villager First Publication: February 13, 2025 Last Publication: February 20, 2025 Legal # 11735 ___________________________ 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: ANA’LEYNA MORALES, Child, and concerning JESMARIE RIVERO AND MICHAEL L. MORALES, Respondents.

Shannon Nichols, Esq. #50527 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the People 14980 East Alameda Drive, Aurora, CO 80012 Tel: (303) 636-1895 Fax: (303) 6361889 Case No: 24JV126 Division: 34 NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING MICHAEL MORALES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Default Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding MICHAEL MORALES is set on April 2, 2025 at 10:45 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112.

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

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

Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link: • https://judicial. webex.com/meet/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 408 0614 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: February 5, 2025 Shannon Nichols, Esq. Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner 14980 E. Alameda Dr., Aurora, CO 80012 Phone: (303) 636-1895 Email: SNichols@arapahoegov. com

You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these

Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11736 ___________________________

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

A CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

ARAPAHOE LAKE PUBLIC PARK DISTRICT

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the CitySet Metropolitan District Nos. 1 & 2 of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

The Board is a seven-member governing, policy-making board. The Board is responsible for a $43 million budget, nine facilities, and the policies for funding and operating these facilities.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and, particularly, to the electors of the Arapahoe Lake Public Park District of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

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

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, two (2) directors will be elected to serve 4-year terms and one (1) director will be elected to serve 2-year terms. Eligible electors of the Arapahoe Lake Public Park District interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District Designated Election Official (DEO):

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

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

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

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

Applications must be received by Sunday March 2, 2025 at 4:00 pm. For further information please contact Oli Sanidas, Executive Director, at 303-792-8987.

Published in The Villager First Publication: February 13, 2025 Last Publication: February 27, 2025 Legal # 11737 ___________________________

Michele Barrasso c/o Seter, Vander Wall & Mielke, P.C. 7400 E. Orchard Road, Suite 3300 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 mbarrasso@svwpc.com 303-770-2700 The Office of the DEO is open on the following days: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance is close of business 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election).

The Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the designated election official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025 (the sixty-fourth day before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, an application for an absentee ballot shall be filed with the designated election official no later than the close of business on Tuesday preceding the election, April 29, 2025. /s/ Michele Barrasso Designated Election Official Signature Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11738 ___________________________

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 1-13.5-501, C.R.S., that an election will be held on May 6, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, three (3) Directors shall be elected to serve until the next regular election, to occur May 8, 2029.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance Forms are available and can be obtained from David Solin, the Designated Election Official for the CitySet Metropolitan District Nos. 1 & 2, c/o Special District Management Services, Inc., 141 Union Blvd., Suite 150, Lakewood, Colorado 80228, (303) 987-0835 and on the District website at: https://citysetmd2.colorado.gov/.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form or letter is to be submitted to the Designated Election Official no later than the close of business on February 28, 2025, sixty-seven (67) days prior to the regular election.

Affidavits of Intent to be a Write-In Candidate must be submitted to the Designated Election Official by the close of business on March 3, 2025, sixty-four (64) days prior to the regular election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, pursuant to Section 1-13.5-1002, C.R.S., that applications for and return of absentee voters’ ballots may be obtained from / filed with David Solin, the Designated Election Official of the District, c/o Special District Management Services, Inc., 141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, Colorado 80028, (303) 987-0835, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, April 29, 2025).

CITYSET METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 1 & 2 By: /s/ David Solin Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11739 ___________________________ CASTLEWOOD WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT 2025 Sanitary Sewer CIPP Rehabilitation Project

Continued on next page

February 13, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

LEGALS Continued from previous page The Castlewood Water and Sanitation District (the “Owner”) is accepting sealed bids for the 2025 Sanitary Sewer CIPP Rehabilitation Project (the “Project”). Sealed bids will be received until the hour of 10 A.M. local time on February 27, 2025 by the District Engineer (Merrick & Company), at 8051 E. Maplewood Ave, Suite 300, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. At that time, bids received will be opened.

The Project will include rehabilitation work for existing 8-inch and 10-inch sewer pipe including approximately: §1,317 LF of UV CIPP including all manhole reconnections, service reconnections and reinstatements and any required excavations.

The work shall include all bypass pumping, erosion and traffic control and other related improvements and appurtenances. This Project is located within the Castlewood Water and Sanitation District, located within the City of Greenwood Village, Colorado.

Copies of the Bidding Documents may be requested from the Castlewood Water & Sanitation District at the email of the District Engineer, Wade.wheatlake@merrick.com, beginning February 13, 20245. No payment required. Reproductions are prohibited. No pre-bid conference is scheduled; however, interested Bidders are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the area where the work will be performed.

Bids may not be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) calendar days after the Bid date and time. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, to waive any errors or irregularities, and to require statements or evidence of Bidders’ qualifications including financial statements. The Owner also reserves the right to extend the Bidding period by Addendum if it appears in its interest to do so.

For further information, please contact Wade Wheatlake at Merrick & Company at 303-751-0741.

Published in The Villager First Publication: February 13, 2025 Last Publication: February 20, 2025 Legal # 11740 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS CHAPPARAL METROPOLITAN DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the CHAPPARAL METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (“District”) of the County of Arapahoe, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (2) two directors will be elected for a 4-year term expiring in May 2029.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO) after January 1st, 2025.

Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com Community Resource Services of Colorado 7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 303-381-4960 Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com. A Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

CHAPPARAL METROPOLITAN DISTRICT Sue Blair, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11740 ___________________________ A CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Sections 1-13.5-303; 1-13.5-305; 1-13.5-501; 1-13.5-1002; 1-13.51102(3), C.R.S. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and, particularly, to the electors of the CHERRY CREEK VISTA PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT, of ARAPAHOE County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a. m. and 7:00 p. m. At that time, two (2) directors will be elected to serve a four (4)-year term and one (1) director will be elected to serve a two (2)-year term. Eligible electors of the CHERRY CREEK VISTA PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from Sarah E. E. Shepherd, the District Designated Election Official (DEO), at info@ccrider.us, or by calling 303-482-1002.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance is close of business at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election). If the DEO determines that a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may amend the form at any time prior to the close of business on the day of the deadline. Affidavit of Intent to be a write-in-candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the DEO by the close of business at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 3, 2025 (the sixty-fourth day before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that requests for an application for an absentee voter’s ballot may be made orally or in writing with the DEO no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the email address and telephone number listed above between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

CHERRY CREEK VISTA PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT By: /S/ SARAH E. E. SHEPHERD Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11742 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR EAST VALLEY METROPOLITAN DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the East Valley Metropolitan District of Arapahoe County, Colorado: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on May 6, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. for the East Valley Metropolitan District’s Board of Directors. At that time, two directors will be elected to serve a four-year term and two directors will be elected to serve a two-year term. Eligible electors of the East Valley Metropolitan District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a SelfNomination and Acceptance Form from the District’s Designated Election

Official (DEO): Natalie M. Fleming 8480 E. Orchard Road, Suite 3650 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 nfleming@erblawllc.com 303-626-7125 The office of the DEO is open on the following days: Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form to the DEO is at the close of business on February 28, 2025 (no later than 67 days before the election). The Affidavit of Intent to Be a Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the DEO by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025 (no later than 64 days before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot shall be filed with the DEO no later than the close of business on the Tuesday preceding the election, April 29, 2025.

EAST VALLEY METROPOLITAN DISTRICT By: /s/ Natalie M. Fleming Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11743 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR FESTIVAL COMMONS METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (ORGANIZATION ELECTION) TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Festival Commons Metropolitan District, City of Centennial, County of Arapahoe, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on May 6, 2025 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, two directors will be elected to serve until they or their successors are elected and qualified at the next regular special district election after organization and three directors will be elected to serve until they or their successors are elected and qualified at the second regular special district election after organization. Eligible electors of the Festival Commons Metropolitan District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a SelfNomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO): Natalie M. Fleming 8480 East Orchard Road, Suite 3650 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 nfleming@erblawllc.com 303-626-7125 The Office of the DEO is open on the following days: Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form to the DEO is the close of business on February 28, 2025 (no later than 67 days before the election). Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the DEO by the close of business on March 3, 2025 (no later than 64 days before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot shall be filed with the DEO no later than the close of business on the Tuesday preceding the election, April 29, 2025.

7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 303-381-4960 Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com. A Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

HAVANA WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT Sue Blair, Designated Election Official CONVOCATORIA DE CANDIDATURAS HAVANA WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT A QUIEN CORRESPONDA, y en particular, a los electores elegibles de HAVANA WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT (“Distrito”) del Condado de Adams, Colorado.

POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que el Distrito llevará a cabo una elección regular el día 6 de Mayo de 2025, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 7:00 p.m. En ese momento, se elegirán tres (3) directores para un mandato de 4 años que expira en Mayo de 2029 y un (1) se elegirá director para un mandato de 2 años que expira en Mayo de 2027.

Para ser candidato a uno de los puestos de director, una persona calificada debe presentar un Formulario de Autonominación y Aceptación. Los electores elegibles del Distrito interesados en servir en la Junta Directiva pueden obtener un formulario de Autonominación y Aceptación del Oficial Electoral Designado (DEO) del Distrito después del 1 de Enero de 2025.

Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com Community Resource Services of Colorado 7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 303-381-4960 Horario de Oficina: Lunes a Viernes de 8:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m.

El Formulario de Autonominación y Aceptación debe devolverse al Oficial Electoral Designado antes de las 5:00 p.m. del Viernes 28 de Febrero de 2025. El formulario se puede enviar por correo electrónico a elections@ crsofcolorado.com. Un Formulario de Autonominación y Aceptación que no sea suficiente puede ser modificado una vez en cualquier momento antes de las 3:00 p.m. del Viernes 28 de Febrero de 2025. Se recomienda la presentación anticipada ya que la fecha límite no permitirá corregir un formulario insuficiente si se recibe a las 5:00 p.m.

Los formularios de Declaración Jurada de Intención de ser un Candidato por Escrito deben enviarse a la oficina del Funcionario Electoral Designado antes del cierre de operaciones el Lunes 3 de Marzo de 2025.

FESTIVAL COMMONS METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que se puede presentar una solicitud para una boleta de voto en ausencia ante el Funcionario Electoral Designado, con la información de contacto mencionada anteriormente, a más tardar al cierre de operaciones el Martes 29 de Abril de 2025.

By: /s/ Natalie M. Fleming Designated Election Official

HAVANA WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT Sue Blair, Funcionario Electoral Designado

Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11744 ___________________________ A CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11746 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS HERITAGE GREENS METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

GREENWOOD NORTH METROPOLITAN DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and, particularly, to the electors of the Greenwood North Metropolitan District, Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, three (3) directors will be elected to serve 4-year terms and one (1) director will be elected to serve a 2-year term. Eligible electors of the Greenwood North Metropolitan District interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District Designated Election Official (DEO): Catherine T. Bright c/o Seter, Vander Wall & Mielke, P.C. 7400 E. Orchard Road, Suite 3300 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 cbright@svwpc.com 303-770-2700 The Office of the DEO is open on the following days: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance is close of business 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election).

The Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the designated election official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025 (the sixty-fourth day before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, an application for an absentee ballot shall be filed with the designated election official no later than the close of business on Tuesday preceding the election, April 29, 2025. /s/ Catherine T. Bright Designated Election Official Signature Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11745 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS HAVANA WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the HAVANA WATER & SANITATION DISTRICT (“District”) of Adams County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, three (3) directors will be elected for a 4-year term expiring in May 2029 and (1) director will be elected for a 2-year term expiring May 2027.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO) after January 1st, 2025.

Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com Community Resource Services of Colorado

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of Heritage Greens Metropolitan District (“District”) of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (3) three directors will be elected for a 4-year term.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO): Stephanie Net, DEO SNer@spencerfane.com Spencer Fane LLP 1700 Lincoln Street, Ste. 2000 Denver, CO 80203 Phone: 303-839-3712 The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by close of business (5:00 p.m. MST) on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form should be emailed to SNet@spencerfane. com. If the designated election official determines that a self-nomination and acceptance form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may amend the form at any time prior to the close of business on the day of the deadline.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

HERITAGE GREENS METROPOLITAN DISTRICT Stephanie Net, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11747 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR HOLLY HILLS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Holly Hills Water and Sanitation District of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a regular election will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, three (3) directors will be elected to serve a four-year terms Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms are available from AJ Beckman, the Designated Election Official for the District, at 405 Urban Street, Suite 310, Lakewood, Colorado, or email: elections@publicalliancellc.com .

Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms must be filed with the Designated Election Official for the District at the above email address not less than 67 days prior to the election (Friday, February 28, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for absentee ballots may

Continued on next page

PAGE 13, 2025 PAGE14| 24 |THE THEVILLAGER VILLAGER• •February June 8, 2023 Continued from previous page be filed with the Designated Election Official of the District at the above address during normal business hours (8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.), until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, April 29, 2025). All absentee ballots must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 7:00 p.m. on election day.

HOLLY HILLS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT By: /s/ AJ Beckman, Designated Election Official \ Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11748 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS HILLCREST WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the HILLCREST WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT (“District”) of the County of Arapahoe, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (3) three directors will be elected for 4-year term expiring in May 2029.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO) after January 1st, 2025.

Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com Community Resource Services of Colorado 7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 303-381-4960 Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com. A Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

HILLCREST WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT Sue Blair, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11749 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS MANSFIELD HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the MANSFIELD HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT “District”) of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (2) two directors will be elected for a 4-year term expiring in May 2029.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO) after January 1st, 2025.

Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com Community Resource Services of Colorado 7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 303-381-4960 Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com. A Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

MANSFIELD HEIGHTS WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT Sue Blair, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11750 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS MARVELLA METROPOLITAN DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the MARVELLA METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (District”) of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (3) three directors will be elected for a 4-year term expiring in May 2029.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO): Sue Blair, DEO elections@crsofcolorado.com Community Resource Services of Colorado 7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Phone: 303-381-4960 Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com. A Self-Nomination

LEGALS LEGALS and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2025. Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

MARVELLA METROPOLITAN DISTRICT Sue Blair, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11751 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS ORCHARD HILLS METROPOLITAN RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of Orchard Hills Metropolitan Recreation and Park District (the “District”) of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (3) three directors will be elected for a 4-year term and (0) zero directors will be elected for a 2-year term.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO): Katie Miller, DEO kamiller@spencerfane.com Spencer Fane LLP 1700 Lincoln Street, Ste. 2000 Denver, CO 80203 Phone: 303-839-3703 The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by close of business (5:00 p.m. MST) on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form should be emailed to kamiller@spencerfane. com. If the designated election official determines that a self-nomination and acceptance form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may amend the form at any time prior to the close of business on the day of the deadline.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

ORCHARD HILLS METROPOLITAN RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT Katie Miller, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11752 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS PROSPER METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 5-10 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Prosper Metropolitan District Nos. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 of Arapahoe County, Colorado (collectively, the “Districts”): NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 1-13.5-501, C.R.S., that elections for each of the Districts will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time two (2) Directors will be elected to serve 4-year terms to May 8, 2029 for each of the Districts.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance Forms are available and can be obtained from Craig Sorensen, the Designated Election Official for the Districts, c/o McGeady Becher Cortese Williams P.C., 450 E. 17th Avenue, Suite 400, Denver, Colorado 80203, Phone: 303-592-4380, email: csorensen@specialdistrictlaw.com.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form or letter is to be submitted to the Designated Election Official no later than the close of business (5:00 p.m. MST) on February 28, 2025, sixty-seven (67) days prior to the regular election. Affidavits of Intent to be a Write-In Candidate must be submitted to the Designated Election Official by the close of business (5:00 p.m.

MST) on March 3, 2025, sixty-four (64) days prior to the regular election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, pursuant to Section 1-13.5-1002, C.R.S., that applications for and return of absentee voters’ ballots may be obtained from / filed with Craig Sorensen, the Designated Election Official of the Districts (at the address/phone/email address noted above), between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, April 29, 2025).

PROSPER METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 AND 10 By: /s/ CRAIG SORENSEN Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11753 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS PROSPER METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 5-10 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Prosper Metropolitan District Nos. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 of Arapahoe County, Colorado (collectively, the “Districts”): NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 1-13.5-501, C.R.S., that elections for each of the Districts will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time two (2) Directors will be elected to serve 4-year terms to May 8, 2029 for each of the Districts.

Self-Nomination and Acceptance Forms are available and can be obtained from Craig Sorensen, the Designated Election Official for the Districts, c/o McGeady Becher Cortese Williams P.C., 450 E. 17th Avenue, Suite 400, Denver, Colorado 80203, Phone: 303-592-4380, email: csorensen@specialdistrictlaw.com.

The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form or letter is to be submitted to the Designated Election Official no later than the close of business (5:00 p.m. MST) on February 28, 2025, sixty-seven (67) days prior to the regular election. Affidavits of Intent to be a Write-In Candidate must be submitted to the Designated Election Official by the close of business (5:00 p.m.

MST) on March 3, 2025, sixty-four (64) days prior to the regular election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, pursuant to Section 1-13.5-1002, C.R.S., that applications for and return of absentee voters’ ballots may be obtained from / filed with Craig Sorensen, the Designated Election Official of the Districts (at the address/phone/email address noted above), between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, April 29, 2025).

PROSPER METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 AND 10

By: /s/ CRAIG SORENSEN Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11753 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS SOUTHGATE SANITATION DISTRICT AND SOUTHGATE WATER DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of Southgate Sanitation District and Southgate Water District (collectively, the “Districts”) of Arapahoe and Douglas Counties, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Districts will conduct regular elections on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (2) two directors will be elected for a 4-year term and (0) zero directors will be elected for a 2-year term for each District.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District(s) interested in serving on the Board(s) of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the Districts’ Designated Election Official (DEO): Katie Miller, DEO kamiller@spencerfane.com Spencer Fane LLP 1700 Lincoln Street, Ste. 2000 Denver, CO 80203 Phone: 303-839-3703 The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by close of business (5:00 p.m. MST) on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form should be emailed to kamiller@spencerfane. com. If the designated election official determines that a self-nomination and acceptance form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may amend the form at any time prior to the close of business on the day of the deadline.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

SOUTHGATE SANITATION DISTRICT AND SOUTHGATE WATER DISTRICT Katie Miller, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11754 ___________________________ A CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Sections 1-4-912; 1-13.5-303; 1-13.5-305; 1-13.5-501; 1-13.5-1002 and 32-1-902(2), C.R.S. TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and, particularly, to the electors of the SUBURBAN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT, of ARAPAHOE County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a. m. and 7:00 p. m. At that time, two (2) directors will be elected to serve four (4)-year terms. Eligible electors of the SUBURBAN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from Sarah E. E. Shepherd, the District Designated Election Official (DEO), at info@ccrider.us, or by calling 303-482-1002.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance is close of business on Friday, February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election). If the DEO determines that a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may amend the form at any time prior to the close of business on the day of the deadline. Affidavit of Intent to be a write-in-candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the designated election official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025 (the sixty-fourth day before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that requests for an application for an absentee voter’s ballot may be made orally or in writing with the designated election official no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the address and telephone number listed above between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

SUBURBAN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT By: /S/ SARAH E. E. SHEPHERD Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11755 ___________________________ CALL FOR NOMINATIONS WESTRAY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of Westray Business Improvement District (“District”) of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (2) two directors will be elected for a 4-year term.

In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO): Stephanie Net, DEO SNet@spencerfane.com Spencer Fane LLP 1700 Lincoln Street, Ste. 2000 Denver, CO 80203 Phone: 303-839-3712 The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by close of business (5:00 p.m. MST) on Friday, February 28, 2025. The form should be emailed to SNet@spencerfane. com. If the designated election official determines that a self-nomination and acceptance form is not sufficient, the eligible elector who submitted the form may amend the form at any time prior to the close of business on the day of the deadline.

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

WESTRAY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT Stephanie Net, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: February 13, 2025 Legal # 11756 ___________________________

LEGALS

February 13, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

CITY OF CENTENNIAL INFORMATION ON LARGE COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT GRANT PROGRAM. THURS., FEB. 13, 6:30 p.m. at the Centennial Public Works building (7272 S. Eagle St.) Groups may apply up to $20,000 per project. Applications available Friday, Feb. 14. Visit centennialco.gov/communitygrants DENVER CLERK & RECORDER ANNUAL MARRIAGE MARATHON FEB. 14, Valentine’s Day. In the main atrium of the Webb Bldg.

AURORA REPUBLICAN FORUM MEETING SAT., FEB. 15, 10 a.m. Speaker Aurora Mayor Pro-tem Steve Sundberg. $5 coffee & donuts. Heather Gardens Clubhouse, 2888 A. Heather Gardens Way, Aurora. Info: joy@greenco.big AURORA HISTORY MUSEUM PRESENTS NEW COMMUNITY STORY EXHIBIT NOW - FEB. 16, 2025. A rich tapestry of community stories brought to life at Community Gallery of the Aurora

History Museum, 15051 E. Alameda Parkway. Created in collaboration with the city of Aurora, Poet Laureate, Ahj a Fox. The poetry on display was selected from over 100 entries by local artists, highlighting the Aurora Community. Aurora Museum.org CITY OF CENTENNIAL BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMUNITIES OPEN Application deadline: MONDAY, FEB. 17, 5 p.m.

New appointments for six of the 10 groups will be made at the end of March and selected applicants will begin serving their terms in April. Applications being accepted for the Audit Committee, Election Commission, Investment Commission, Open Space Advisory Board, Planning & Zoning Commission and Senior Commission based on vacancies. More Info: Visit centennialco.gov/ boardsandcommissions SOUTH METRO CHAMBER ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF RETAIL & HOSPITALITY IN THE SOUTH METRO REGION TUE., FEB. 18, 8:30-10:00 a.m. Park Meadows Retail Resort, 8401 Park Meadow’s Center Dr., Lone Tree.

SOUTH METRO CHAMBER HEALTH & WELLNESS EVENT: BLOOD DRIVE WED., FEB. 19, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Villages Work, Wellness & Event Center, 7173 S. Havana St. #600, Centennial. Schedule an appointment by visiting https:// tinyurl.com/2pbfu322 drivecode10055765. Walk-ins not accepted.

ENGLEWOOD CHAMBER HOSTED BY ENGLEWOOD ROTARY & ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB FEB. 21, 8-9:30 a.m. Mally Recreation Center, 3380 S. Lincoln St., Englewood. RSVP lindsey@ myenglewoodchamber.org ARAPAHOE COUNTY COTTAGE FOOD SAFETY TUE., FEB. 21, 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Learn how to operate a home-based cottage food business. Visit https://bit.ly/csucottagefoods ARAPAHOE COUNTY LEARN ABOUT COMPOSTING FEB. 22, 11 a.m. - Noon.Free class at Mission Viejo

TURN YOUR DAY INTO THEIR FAVORITE STORY Storytime volunteers needed No experience necessary CALL (720) 324-7168

HELP WANTED TECHNICAL LEAD MANAGER POSITIONS AVAILABLE AT THE CE SHOP LLC IN GREENWOOD VILLAGE, COLORADO To apply, submit resume and cover letter to: Tiff Kuhns, HR Business Partner, 5670 Greenwood Plaza Blvd, Suite 340, Greenwood Village, Colorado, 80111 or by email to hiring@careercertified. com. Job Duties: Lead, manage, train and supervise software engineers/developers. Innovate software development processes and end-user products with a focus on enhancing the customer experience and business growth opportunities. Collaborate with a team comprised of both technical and non-technical members in support of development projects, including PMs, QA, software architects, DevOps leadership, and other stakeholders to build best in class products. Develop, write and test high-quality code that supports new/existing applications. Partner with scrum master to evolve agile practices, participate in all Agile ceremonies. Turn the architecture into a reality considering best engineering practices. Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, computer engineering, or related field.

Higher degree is acceptable. Minimum Experience Requirement: 3 years of software development experience using Salesforce.

Certifications Required: Salesforce Advanced Administrator and Salesforce Platform Developer. May work from employer’s headquarters in Greenwood Village, Colorado or remotely anywhere in the United States.

Library in Aurora. Register at https://big.ly/CSU-Compost or scan CR code in Arapahoe County ad on page 3 of The Villager CENTENNIAL CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 MEETING TUE., FEB. 25, 6-8 p.m. with Robyn Cranes and Amy Tharp at YMjCA Center of Generations, 6972 S. Vine St., #366 in Centennial. Learn about the city’s new Active Development Maps with Q & A. ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN CASA FEB. 28, 4:45 p.m. Celebrate the retirement of Nancy Steele at their office. The celebration will follow the Volunteer Swearing-In Ceremony at 4 p.m. RSVP: Victoria_raphael@adv4children.org SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER SMDC ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS WED., MARCH 12, 5-8:00 p.m. Curtis Ballroom, Comedy Works South. Presented by Vetra Bank.

Nomination deadline: FEB. 7. Nominees must be a member of the Chamber from Jan.-Dec. 2024 and beyond. Nominations to: info@bestchamber.com MIZEL ARTS & CULTURE CENTER’S DENVER CHILDREN’S THEATRE, “CHARLOTTE’S WEB.” FEB. 20-MARCH 16. FEB. 23 Performance at 10 a.m. is a SCFD Free Day event and Accessibility Day for the public. Additional performances March 2, 9, and 16 at 10 a.m. at Theatre at the Mizel Arts & Culture Center located at the Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center. Tickets available for public performances.

Arapahoe County Early Childhood Council is seeking adult volunteers to join our Giggle & Grow team to share love of literacy and play. All volunteers must pass a background check and attend orientation. www.acecc.org/volunteer

2025 Hyundai Kona Is Total Turbo Package The 2025 Hyundai Kona is like a young horse, eager to run, this is a spirited smaller SUV with all-wheel drive. A very competitive price with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $35,005 with all options included. Hyundai features a 10 year/100,000-mile warranty on their power train. That is important and impressive with 4- cylinder turbo-charged engine. This 2025 Kona has a 1.5L turbocharged engine, linked to an 8-speed variable transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters. The transmission shift lever is unusual with

a turn knob to select drive, park, and reverse. Another dial selects a drive mode of normal, eco, or sports. I like the sport mode the best, espe-

cially in this Kona because of the high turbo performance.

This is an all-gasoline SUV with total assembly in Ulsan, Korea with 90 percent Korean

LOCAL ARTIST INVITED TO APPLY FOR 2025 ART ON LOAN PROGRAM Sponsored by South Suburban Parks and Recreation.

Apply by MARCH17. Selected sculptures will be displayed at Goodson Recreation Center or Hudson Gardens for a year, and artists will receive a $500 honorarium for the display. Call 720-245-2604 or Info: gpeterson@ssprd.org

graduating seniors who wish to pursue post-secondary educational opportunities at vocational schools, two or four-year colleges, or trade & certification programs.

Teachers, counselors, and school administrators can nominate exceptional seniors through March 7 at arapahoecogov/youth awards.

MS. COLORADO SENIOR AMERICA - CALL FOR CONTESTANTS Ms. Colorado Senior America Pageant is taking applications for the 31st pageant on APRIL 26, 2025. If you are a lady 60 years or better, this is your opportunity to get out and do something for you in 2025!!! Not just a“one and done”pageant, we are involved with year round activities and make a difference in our communities. This is the“Age of Elegance!” For more information - website: ColoSrAmerica.com, FB Ms Colorado Senior America Pageant or call René Green, Pageant Administrator at 720- 384-6249.

WHAT’S NEW? - ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE SENIOR LIVING EVENTS Upscale dining, engaging events and activities, indoor pool, pet friendly. Call 720-684-5913 to schedule a tour and enjoy lunch on the Village. Located at 133801 E. Yale Ave., Aurora.

ARAPAHOE COUNTY WINE & CHALK ART FESTIVAL MAY 3 & 4 - Arapahoe County Fairgrounds. Enjoy wine from local wineries, chalk art, live bands, activities, shopping and more. Early bird tickets $30 for Sat./ $20 for Sunday. arapahoecountyeventcenter.com SAVE THE DATE - MIZEL INSTITUTE 2025 HONOREES THURSDAY, MAY 22 . Honoring Bonnie & David Mandarich. 2024 honoree was Peyton Manning.

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

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN The Arapahoe County Mayors & Commissioners Youth Award recognizes teenagers who have overcome adversity & risen to challenges. Scholarships awarded to

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

parts, engine, transmission. Fuel economy ranges from 29 mpg highway to 24 in city driving with average of 26 mpg.

I really like the performance, along with the many safety features. This Kona has the visual dashboard photos of rear blind sport lanes, described as a rearview monitor. The Kona is loaded with many of the latest safety features.

The exterior has 19” alloy wheels with attractive chrome wheels, roof rails, a power sunroof, and LED lights all around with auto high beam dimming for night driving.

The front seats are heated

and cooled, outside heated mirrors along with heated steering wheel. A hand’s free lift gate and UBS charge pads in both front and rear seating areas. BOSE premium audio system adds to total package.

When you include all the factory warranties, safety features, luxury items, and the turbo power, along with allwheel drive this is a powerful package for a very competitive price.

Lastly, it just drives and handles well and is a pleasurable drive.

By H. Throttle

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • February 13, 2025

money sense

Three ways trusts can help — even if you are not rich Trusts can be an efficient way to provide a financial legacy to the people and causes you care about.

Plus, there are other benefits you may not have considered, according to Bank of America.

Many people assume that trusts are only for the very wealthy.

That is not the case. “Trusts are tools that give you very specific control over how your wealth is used and protected, no matter how much money you have,” says Kevin Hindman, managing director of Retirement & Personal Wealth Solutions at Bank of America.

Broadly speaking, you can think of a trust as a sort of container that holds your assets — from investments and real estate to even a private business. With the help of a lawyer, accountant and financial advisor, you establish the rules for what happens to the assets in your trust and who will manage it, either during your lifetime or after you die, and name beneficiaries of your choosing. You can set up a trust while you are alive to provide for the management of assets in the event that you or a loved one becomes incapacitated — a valid concern given our increased life spans compared to decades ago and the prevalence of conditions like Alzheimer’s that can require costly long-term care. But trusts are also useful in helping ensure that your money is distributed as you wish after you are gone. Here are three potential benefits to consider.

1. More control. You can use a trust to set rules or conditions about when and how your beneficiaries will receive their inheritance. For instance, if you prefer that your son complete a professional degree or pursue a career rather than buy a sports car, you could establish a trust that sets a specific age or milestone before the money becomes available, such as graduating from law school or turning 30.

Trusts also can help you reach charitable goals or improve tax efficiency. By setting up a charitable trust, for example, you can support philanthropic causes now or in the future while also providing an income stream for you or your heirs and minimizing gift or other potential taxes.

2. A measure of protection.

Trusts can help ensure that your children, grandchildren, cherished friends or other loved ones receive their inheritance if you divorce or remarry. They also can help shield assets if you or your heirs are in professions that come with a high risk of litigation. By making a trust the beneficiary of your life insurance policy — or putting the policy within a trust — you can dictate how the proceeds can be spent, adding another level of protection for your heirs. A trust

can also be used to help keep a business in the family or provide for a child with special healthcare needs.

3. Investment guidance. A trust allows you to designate a professional money manager, so if loved ones are unable to handle investments, family property or a business, they may be protected from costly mistakes. The same goes for heirs who are too young to invest and manage an inheritance. For the beneficiaries of your trust, the financial stewardship you put in place can also help ease the transition to managing the assets.

Trusts are just part of a larger plan you can put in place — and adjust over time — to establish your legacy and help protect the financial future of those you love.

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

Neither Bank of America nor any of its affiliates, provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

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

Asset allocation, diversification, and rebalancing do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.

This material does not take into account a client’s particular investment objectives, financial situations, or needs and is not intended as a recommendation, offer, or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. There are important differences between brokerage and investment advisory services, including the type of advice and assistance provided, the fees charged, and the rights and obligations of the parties. It is important to understand the differences, particularly when determining which service or services to select. For more information about these services and their differences, speak with your Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Advisor.

Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation (BofA Corp.)

Bank of America, N.A. makes available The H.S.A. for Life® Health Savings Account.

Bank of America is a marketing name for the Retirement Services business of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp”). Banking activities may be performed by wholly owned banking affiliates of BofA Corp., including Bank of America N.A., Member FDIC. Please consult your tax or legal advisor regarding specific use of Health Savings Accounts. Investments can lose money.

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

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

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Deposits

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

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

© 2024 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP6613584 | WP-07-24-0061 | 472503PM-0624 | 07/2024