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VOLUME 44 • NUMBER 13 • FEBRUARY 19, 2026

PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

Arenado admitted Back at Salt River Fields, wanted,” after the trade to Arizona. he also said, ‘I expect Arenado hasn’t changed But to go out and help this team After five years of spring training in Florida’s humid sunshine, Nolan Arenado is back in the dry heat of the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick complex in Scottsdale.

But this time he’s not there as a member of the Colorado Rockies.

Still chasing the holy grail of postseason baseball, Arenado is now a member of the Arizona Diamondbacks, who share the Arizona facility with Arenado’s original team.

This means the Rockies will see him at some point in spring training, maybe in one of the first two spring games the two teams play against each other this weekend. For sure the clubs are scheduled 13 times this season, including six games at Coors Field.

St. Louis unloaded him a month ago, receiving some cash and a minor league pitcher who was an eighthround draft choice last summer.

As most Rockies fans know, Arenado pouted and whined his way out of Denver before the 2021 season, in the belief that St. Louis—second only to the Yankees in World Series titles with 11—afforded him an infinitely better shot at not only annually playing in October but also being part of a World Series champion.

The previous year had been the Cards’ 13th straight winning season, and as one reporter wrote, “the Cardinals were always good, and now they have Arenado.”

Alas, that “Arenado World Series” didn’t happen.

The Cardinals made the playoffs in his first two

seasons with the Redbirds, but even with Arenado, they didn’t win a game.

The next three years they lost 22 more than they won (232-254) and finished last in the National League Central Division in 2023.

In his three playoff games for St. Louis, Arenado went 1-for-12. In four with Colorado before that, he had four hits in 21 at bats and was on the winning side in a post-season game for the only time, so far.

This is not to say Arenado’s regular-season performance in St. Louis was a complete personal disappointment. His first two seasons saw him hit 30 and 34 homers and drive in more than 100 runs each year. He finished third in MVP voting in 2022.

But by last season, the Cardinals were ready to move on. They tried during the 2024 offseason to find a trade partner, but the limited scope of Arenado’s no-trade list thwarted the Cards’ efforts.

Arenado insists that— unlike when he forced his way out of Denver—he left St. Louis on good terms. “I loved my time there,” he said.

But it was time.

“It was very evident that there was a step they needed to take . . . and I was just kind of in the way of that,” he said.

In his last year in St. Louis, Arenado batted .233 with 12 home runs and 52 RBI, and the team finished 78-84.

It was the worst offensive season of his 13-year career.

“I know the last few years haven’t gone the way I

win on both sides.”

The Cardinals’ willingness to eat three-quarters of the $42 million remaining in Arenado’s contractual obligations made the deal work, just as the $50 million the Rockies agreed to send to St. Louis in 2021.

“I know how much winning means to him and is important to him.,” said Arizona general manager Mike Hazen. “And it’s important to us. I think he’s a good fit.”

Just as he utilized his notrade provision in 2021 to orchestrate his relocation to St. Louis, Arenado used it to land in Arizona this time around. He told The Associated Press that after the 2025 season he added a few teams to his list of those to which he’d agree to be traded, among them, the Dbacks.

In the most important regard, he hasn’t changed as he approaches his 35th birthday in April.

“I still want to play in the playoffs,” he told The AP. “ . . . I want the opportunity . . . and I don’t see why this group can’t do that That’s why I was really open to playing here.

“My expectations are still high.”

Check back in August when the Dodgers are running away with the National League West again and Arenado’’s best efforts are once more going to waste. ________________ Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at denny dressman@comcast.net.

Black Baseball’s Heyday in 3-D At Denver Press Club Feb. 27 Villager sports columnist Denny Dressman will discuss his new book during a special Black Baseball’s Heyday Black History Month program at the Denver Press Club Friday, February 27.

“Black Baseball’s Heyday in 3-D” looks at the segregated baseball era from 1880 to Jackie Robinson’s Major League debut from three perspectives: the players, art and culture of the era.. The review in the American Library Association’s Booklist publication calls it “highly recommended.”

Vignettes called High-

Lights, a word-play on artist Anthony High’s name, provide High’s thoughts on each

of his more than three dozen pieces in the book.

“I hope that turning the pages of this book will be like walking through an art gallery on a guided tour, viewing paintings that represent different artistic methods and styles,” High says in the book’s Introduction.”

The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and is open to the public. Admission is $5, and reservations can be made at denverpressclub. org/events. (Press Club members can attend as a benefit of membership.)

Copies will be available for purchase.

February 19, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3

STAY SHARP THIS YEAR WITH

Pie-Dweller or River-Liver There are two types of people in this world, those who are “Pie Dwellers” and those who are “River Livers”. Pie-Dwellers are those who live in a zero-sum mindset.

If someone else gets a piece of the pie, there is not enough. Soon, the pie will be gone, and you never got a slice. It’s not fair, there is too much inequality, anger ensues, and social justice warriors flourish. I call this a scarcity mindset. A River-Liver has the attitude that a rising tide raises all boats.

Being a River- Liver myself, I liken it to being a tree firmly planted by the bank of the river, and my roots go deep. There is never a shortage, and the water just keeps coming. This is an abundance mindset.

This is also how I see taxes. If highly resourced people are taxed disproportionately, they have less money to invest, spend, take financial risks, give bonuses to their employees, buy more stuff, and spread their resources around, which is the engine of growth. It is the same with attitudes.

A story illustrating this concept goes like this. A few years ago, I attended my great-aunt’s birthday celebration. My cousin was at war with her sister. I went to love up on her sister, and my cousin got angry with me for doing so. I was shocked.

I am not feuding with this person. Why would I be expected not to love her? It was because my cousin, who was feuding, thought that if I loved her sister, I would love her less. I explained that the more love I offer, the more I appropriate and have to pour out. Love is never-ending.

It becomes a more valuable commodity when it is given away. This is an example of an attitude of abundance.

A more recent example of literally being a pie dweller is being in a buffet line on a cruise where food is abundant. If the server happens to give a larger slice of pie to the person in line, the one with the smaller piece gets upset even though they could go back to get more pie as many times as they want. It is an attitude of scarcity and comparing what they have to others.

An abundance mind-

set highlights that there is enough for everyone; someone else’s gain is not your loss. By having an abundance mentality, you won’t be jealous or upset when someone else succeeds. Being in an abundance mindset is about how you see life. Some people may have everything, but they still feel poor. Others have less and feel abundant and content, even grateful. How does one live in this place of contentment? It is a choice.

Even if your day doesn’t go well, you can choose to respond positively.

Each day, one must decide if they are going to be a River-Liver or a Pie-Dweller.

Eating well, having enough rest, being grateful, meditating or praying, exercising, loving others well, being confident, and seeing life as an adventure are ways to increase your chances of having an attitude of abundance.

By viewing situations at home, at work, or in play that might feel disappointing through the lens of opportunity and life lessons, you can change your attitude. Know and develop your strengths, become a lifelong learner, stay in a place of gratitude; Live in the River! joneen@narme.org

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C NVERSATIONS ARAPAHOE COUNTY

Pressure Canning Class: Soup, Feb. 25, 6–9 p.m.

Join us for a pressure canning workshop. You will learn how to safely preserve low-acid foods in a pressure canner.

Register at bit.ly/CSU_Soup

The Arapahoe County Mayors and Commissioners Youth Awards celebrate resilient teens who’ve faced challenges—and kept going. Scholarships help graduating seniors pursue vocational, two-year, or fouryear education. Teachers, counselors, and administrators: nominate an outstanding senior by March 2.

Visit arapahoeco.gov/youthawards.

arapahoeco.gov

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

WEEK OF FEB. 16

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

The Villager

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

on the ski slopes, and recorded in Colorado: Water and energy should food banks are strug-61 degrees on Feb. 1, be top priorities gling to supply food 1985.

Thankfully, the state of to those in need.

I once helped my Colorado isn’t hosting the The loss of elecdad feed our cattle in Olympics this winter, as tricity during the temperatures of -50 we’re in a drought. We’re windstorms affected degrees. The wagon in the middle of February, Idaho Springs, Boul- BY BOB SWEENEY wheels crunched and PUBLISHER with temperatures in the 60s, der, and many other crackled over the froand the state’s snowpack is areas during the holiday sea- zen ice and snow as the hay under 50 percent. Italy has son. This could be a prelude load headed for the hungry been fortunate with abundant to future blackouts unless Hereford cattle, known for snowfall for its alpine events. reliable energy sources are being tough enough to surI was traveling in the developed. vive cold weather. Surprismountains recently, and We need the coal plants re- ingly, pitching hay off the the $700 million highway opened and perhaps convert- wagon kept me warm enough construction on Floyd Hill ed to abundant natural gas. with overshoes, warm gloves is underway. They are still Nuclear is on the horizon, and a heavy coat. blasting out a mountain to and northwest Colorado has We had a team of horses, straighten the highway, add- been mentioned as a possible “Wally” and “Dolly,” large ing more traffic lanes and storage site for nuclear waste. Percheron horses that could taking a break in this warmer There is a lot of open space pull a sled or wagon through weather. between Craig and Vernal, deep snow. Sometimes they The lack of snow has reUtah, with the vast Dinosaur had to leap forward to break duced the ski industry’s rev- National Monument on gov- a trail through the deep snow. enues by about 20 percent. ernment land.

During a blizzard in 1948, Restaurant businesses in IdaWhen I was growing up, my dad had to hire a caterho Springs, Vail, and Summit our ranch was southeast of pillar operator to plow out County are down sharply Maybell in Moffat County, the haystacks. The snow was due to the lack of snowpack. and it holds the record for so deep that we were diving There have also been layoffs the coldest temperature ever off the barn roof into the soft

snowbanks.

To this day, snowstorms are foreboding to me, and no doubt to livestock producers across Colorado who face winter winds and freezing weather 24/7 to keep livestock alive by providing food and water. The price of beef is high right now, but so are the challenges facing the beef industry in providing high-quality meat for your tables. However, the Trump administration is allowing imported beef from Argentina to artificially lower beef prices.

Instead of worrying about beef prices, the administration should focus on easing the drought, which is hurting U.S. ranchers and your pocketbook by driving up prices.

They should also focus more on preserving our precious water and the electric grid.

Afterall, we are helpless without electricity.

To be continued.

The Villager Publishing Co., Inc. 22095 E. Chestnut Place, Aurora 80016. Available for home or office delivery by U.S. Mail for $78 per year. Single copies available for $2 per issue.

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Classified Advertising, noon Monday.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Gerri Sweeney gerri@villagerpublishing.com PUBLISHER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR/ CO-PUBLISHER Susan Sweeney Lanam 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com LEGALS Becky Osterwald legal@villagerpublishing.com NEWS EDITOR Gerri Sweeney 303-773-8313 gerri@villagerpublishing.com GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER Freda Miklin fmiklin.villager@gmail.com

The Centennial Fine Art Festival We are excited to announce the debut of The Centennial Fine Art Festival! The event will take place on May 30–31, bringing a curated, high-quality fine art experience to the heart of South Metro Denver at the Streets at

SouthGlenn.

For over twenty years, ColoradoArtShows.com has excelled at creating memorable and crowd-pleasing events producing fine art festivals featuring award-winning regional and

national artists. With a wealth of talent showcasing their art, coupled with top-quality musical entertainment, they ensure that all

attendees enjoy a rich cultural experience in a unique, entertaining environment.

If you are an artist interested in applying to the show, check out their website to learn more: https://coloradoart shows. com/centennial-fine-art-fest

303-489-4900 REPORTER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com FASHION & LIFESTYLE Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com DESIGN/PRODUCTION MANAGER Thomas McTighe production@villagerpublishing.com ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Susan Lanam — 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com Sharon Sweeney — 303-503-1388 cogambler@mac.com Gerri Sweeney — 720-313-9751 gerri@villagerpublishing.com Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com

www.centennial-art.org We are happy to share the 2026 Traffic Box Wraps call is now open! The deadline for Colorado artists to submit their art is February 28th.

This year we celebrate our 5th anniversary, the City of Centennial’s 25th anniversary, Colorado’s 150th anniversary, and the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. Artists are encouraged to submit designs that reflect celebration, history, and the spirit of these anniversaries.

We can't wait to see all the amazing art our local artists will submit!

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.

be displayed on the traffic box wraps. If you are interested in being a judge, visit the volunteer tab of our website and select "Art Review/Selection" or reply to this email saying

you are interested.

Check out more information about our previous traffic box wraps at our website! https://centennial-art.org/ art-in-our-city/

remember to pick-up your botHonoring our K-9 Heroes tles from Branch & Barrel In partnership with the Arapbe installed in Centennial Center

support the cause, please visit our website to explore contribution opportunities and project updates.

ahoe County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) and K-9 Back the Blue, the Centennial Arts & Cultural Foundation is launching a fundraising initiative to honor the service, dedication, and sacrifice of these remarkable K-9s. This memorial will stand as a lasting tribute to the bond between our community and the K-9 units who serve and protect Centennial.

The sculptures are currently in development and are expected to

Apply now: https://artist. callforentry.org/festivals_ unique_info.php?ID=16644 Call for Judges: We are seeking judges to help select the 12 pieces of art that will

Park near the splash pad in Fall 2026. K-9s Atlas and Rex were selected by ACSO deputies to represent the unit, in recognition of their exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to serving our community.

Branch & Barrel Distillery and CACF have partnered to create a limited-edition handcrafted whiskey to support this project. Visit the Branch & Barrel Tasting Room to purchase bottles. IMPORTANT: Please

To learn more about this project and how you can help

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!”

2025 Member

QUOTE of the WEEK QUOTE of the WEEK I love the

smell of juice boxes in the morning.

– Robert Duvall

February 19, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

WHAT’S HAPPENING?

Presenting Keynote Speaker Rob Cohen

Rob Cohen brought the first women’s professional sports franchise - the Women’s National Soccer League to the Denver area in 2025. He explored how the NWSL and professional sports impacts our local economy.

Photos by Pink Poppy Media

Presenting Sponsor Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care Thank you to South Metro Denver Chamber for the opportunity to educate local leaders and business owners about Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care and the direct primary care movement!

Also featuring our strategic partners: Smith Medical, Nunes Partners and Five|50 Advisory.

To get a quote today: www.pinnacleapc.com

ACCEPTING NEW MEMBERS CALL today for an affordable quote 719- 465-1579 Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care team with a few of the many satisfied members

Thanks To These Event Sponsors

Chairman’s Circle Sponsor: Economic Development Partner: Arapahoe County and Presenting Sponsor: Pinnacle Advanced Primary Care L to R Ashley Garcia, Event and Programs Manager Michelle Colaizzi, Director of Member Development Barb Kovacevich, Member Development Director Heather Gallien, Director of Jeff Keener, President & CEO of Marketing and Dr. Rex Corr, Director DCSD Communication South Metro Denver Chamber Legacy Campus thanks Dr. Corr for hosting the event Photo by Susan Sweeney Lanam

To become a chamber member or to learn about sponsorship opportunities please contact the South Metro Denver Chamber team @ 303.795.0142 or bestchamber.com

PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

fo l l ow F R E DA

BY FREDA MIKLIN SENIOR REPORTER

• 9-time Colorado Press Association award winner • Former Greenwood Village City Council Member • GV resident since 1992 • Mother of five graduates of Cherry Creek High School and college • FMiklin.Villager@gmail.com

South Metro Denver Chamber’s 2026 Economic Forecast event is a huge success The Douglas County School District Legacy Campus at 10035 S. Peoria Street in Parker was the setting for the 500-person South Metro Denver Chamber (SMDC) 2026 Economic Forecast Breakfast on January 30.

Following a warm welcome from Lone Tree Mayor Marissa Harmon, SMDC President and CEO Jeff Keener acknowledged The Villager’s Man and Woman of the Year, Greenwood Village Mayor George Lantz and Arapahoe County Commissioner Carrie Warren-Gully, before bringing up program moderator Debbie Brown, president of the Colorado Business Roundtable. COBRT “works to strengthen our state’s economic vitality by engaging with elected officials, business and nonprofit leaders, and key strategic partners.”

Brown welcomed Carrie Warren-Gully to the stage, who talked about the importance to Arapahoe County of being aligned with its residents and community partners. She shared, “Every year, we ask our residents what’s working and what’s not, and the message lately has been pretty clear.

People care about economic stability and affordability, public safety, transportation, infrastructure, and access to services that support a strong workforce…

Residents consistently tell us that they want a county that is focused on practical long-term investments, not just short-term fixes. That feedback directly impacts and shapes our county strategic plan, which is built on one idea—invest in people, places, and systems. Our strategic priorities include economic resilience and workforce stability, reliable infrastructure and transportation, and safe and healthy communities…This is how we guide our budget, the people that we partner with, and how we measure success.”

Brown also introduced SMDC Board President Chad Vorthmann, who leads government relations with Lockheed Martin Space.

They talked about his company’s role in the upcoming lunar spaceflight mission under the Artemis program,

Lockheed Martin Space Government Relations’ Chad Vorthmann, SMDC Board President, with Debbie Brown, president of the Colorado Business Roundtable

Centennial Mayor Christine Sweetland, with Littleton City Council Members Andrea Peters and Pam Grove

University of Colorado President Tony Salazar with CU Regent Ilana Spiegel

led by NASA. Artemis 2, the second flight of the Space Launch System (SLS), and the first crewed mission of the Orion spacecraft, is also the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit and the first crewed mission around the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972. As of press time, the four astronauts are expected to launch on February 9, 2026.

Keynote speaker for the wide-ranging Economic

Forecast Breakfast, Henry Sobanet, served as Director of the Governor’s Office of State Planning and Budgeting from January 2011 until July 2018, under Republican Governor Bill Owens and Democratic Governor John Hickenlooper, before moving on to become the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice Chancellor for Administration and Government Relations at Colorado State University. He recently stepped away from

Henry Sobanet, Treasurer and Senior Adviser at Colorado State University and Executive Coach

his remaining CFO duties at CSU to become its parttime Treasurer and Senior Adviser, while starting yet another career as an independent executive coach.

He opened his presentation by telling the crowd of business, government, and civic leaders that, “The state budget is out of balance, even though we are not in a recession.”

Sobanet submitted, “The economy is usually expanding,” and presented a graph that showed consisted growth of GDP for the past 78 years.

In contrast to the econ-

omy, he pointed out, there are “bigger trends colliding simultaneously,” including policy uncertainty, aggravated by “fractious dialog.”

There are also real economic issues: • Aging population and the promised health care services to those people is one of the most fundamental issues to our public lives and our private lives. According to the state demographer, we are at the front end of the big surge of the over age 80 population, which has implications for housing, transportation, tax policy, and many other things.

• Income inequality is at a multi-decade high.

The top 10% earn 53% of all income. We are in a K-shaped economy, meaning that higher earners’ wages are going up much faster than those of lower earners.

According to Moody’s, that is demonstrated by the fact that the top 20% account for 60% of all spending. Also, according to the Tax Foundation, in 2022, the top 50% paid 97% of all taxes and the top 1% paid 40% of all taxes.

• Based on data from the

Douglas County Public Schools Superintendent Erin Kane and former Lone Tree Mayor Jackie Millet Photos by Freda Miklin

Littleton Deputy City Manager Kathleen Osher and Littleton City Council Member Richard Reichardt

February 19, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

fo l l ow F R E DA U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics via FRED (Federal Reserve Economic Data), employment growth has been slowing for the past year.

• We are still experiencing the one-time postCOVID stimulus money expiring, while “some of these programs have been canceled by the Trump administration, thus “our partnership with the federal government is evolving, a diplomatic way to say it is uncertain and unpredictable.

Sobanet continued, “The state budget is out of alignment” with spending on new and ongoing programs. It was balanced last May but is not any longer because our tax code is tied to the federal tax code and H.R. 1. (the Big Beautiful Bill). At the state level, there is also the problem that low inflation and low population growth limit allowed revenue under TABOR. Those factors, combined, will likely cause the state to need to look to budget cuts or reserves spending, in the short run, unless something changes.”

(We noted in the January 29 issue of the Villager that there is talk of the state de-Brucing, which could change this equation).

Also, at the state level, positive and negative factors Sobanet identified that can impact the economy include: • Business climate/Regulations • High insurance costs • Colorado Legislative Council December 2025 forecast is for modest growth • Colorado Futures Center predicts economic growth in the first half of 2026 • Population growth is slower and concentrated in the front range • Housing prices and rents are softer Moreover, he said that “Colorado’s budget rules are designed for dysfunction,” primarily due to Amendment 23, passed in 2000 by the voters, that “diverts income taxes to the State Education Fund” and has “Mandatory growth with no exceptions for downturns,” along with TABOR, passed by the voters in 1992, which, by limiting revenue growth to population plus inflation, results in “A formula that does not reflect demands on basic government services, with absurd results.”

On the federal side, Sobanet presented a selection of headlines from the Wall

For more on the event visit www.bestchamber.com

500 people came out to hear the South Metro Denver Chamber’s economic forecast for 2026.

Street Journal during January 2026, which, he said, “reflect all the churn:” • “Americans Foot the Bill for Tariffs, Study Finds” • “America’s Job Market Has Entered the Slow Lane” • “Gold and Silver Surge to Records, Buoyed by Concerns over Tariffs, Government Shutdown” • “S&P 500 Hits New Record While Health-Insurance Stocks Slide” On the topic of interest rates, as impacted by the GV City Council Member Donna Johnston, Arapahoe County Community Resources Director Kathy policy of the Federal ReSmith, Littleton Public Schools Board Member Sean O’Shea, and Arapahoe County Commissioner Carrie serve, Sobanet pointed out Warren-Gully Photos by Freda Miklin that, “Interest on the federal debt is now over $1 trillion per year,” and, “We’re still borrowing over $1.8 trillion per year while we’re not in a recession.”

He went on, “Over time, when the federal reserve lowers interest rates, borrowing costs go down, but borrowing costs are also related to other things, including confidence in our ability to pay and confidence in what the inflation rate will be.

Other countries have higher debt-to-income ratios and they have This chart from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis of Federal Reserve Economic Data lower 10-year bond (FRED) shows the growth of Real gross domestic product per capita over the past 78 years. rates. Japan, Greece, the United Kingdom, and Italy all have debt ratios that are way Graphic derived from federal income tax records show the concentration worse and their inof income among the wealthiest in terest rates are lower.

Colorado and across the country There’s a different repayment confidence happening in those countries. Other countries have very low debt-income ratios and they pay higher interest rates. So, it’s not just the federal reserve rate that will bring interest rates down. It’s a combination of all the policies and the confidence of the investment community.”

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

February 19, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

fo l l ow F R E DA

BY FREDA MIKLIN SENIOR REPORTER

• 9-time Colorado Press Association award winner • Former Greenwood Village City Council Member • GV resident since 1992 • Mother of five graduates of Cherry Creek High School and college • FMiklin.Villager@gmail.com

Cherry Creek Schools Board of Education announces it is taking steps to ensure accountability Following the resignation and retirement of former Cherry Creek Schools Superintendent Chris Smith on January 30, and the placement of his wife, Chief Human Resources Officer Brenda Smith, on administrative leave, on February 6, another top administrator whose wife’s position appears to fall under his purview, is no longer at his desk.

Tony Poole, Assistant Superintendent, Special Populations, was placed on administrative leave by the school board on February 11, reportedly for an incident of insubordination. The rumor going around is that Poole was seen out having lunch with Chris Smith, after having been directed not to speak to him.

On January 20, before any of the recent administrative changes, Poole had notified the district that he planned to at least partially retire in the next year. The other aspect of his position that has recently come into focus is that his wife, Re-

becca López, is the district’s director of Neurodiverse Student Services, a position that appears to fall under Special Populations. López is on personal leave. Her request to go on leave was submitted to the District on January 29.

It cannot be overstated that Tony Poole did not hire his wife to work in a position that falls under his purview, just as Chris Smith did not hire his wife, Brenda Smith, to work in a position that falls under his.

In the case of Brenda Smith, the president of the school board that hired Chris Smith as superintendent in 2021, emphasized, in an interview with The Villager, that the board in place at the time made specific changes to the reporting structure to ensure that there was no chain-of-command relationship between the Smiths when Chris Smith was hired and Brenda Smith was already in her position. However, based on complaints received about issues regarding Ms.

Smith, it is unclear whether employees of the district were aware of the reporting structure that the previous board president described to us that was designed to prevent a conflict of interest.

Describing its efforts to address the issues that have recently come to light, on February 13, the School District announced that, “At the Board’s direction, (Interim Superintendent) Dr. Perry will initiate an internal controls audit to review organizational systems and structures, including internal controls, operational processes, and fiscal responsibilities.”

The District will also “advance this process by establishing an Audit Process Committee to oversee the work. The committee will develop and issue a Request for Proposal, review submissions, and recommend a vendor to perform the audit.” The Villager has inquired about the composition of the Audit Process Committee.

Once a vendor is identi-

fied, “The District will then enter into a contract with the selected firm to conduct an independent audit. We expect the audit to take several months to ensure it is thorough and comprehensive. The committee will review the findings, make recommendations to the Board, and the District will implement the approved recommendations.”

On the topic of a search for a new superintendent, the District reported, “Based on guidance from the Colorado Association of School Boards (CASB) and National Association of School Superintendents (NSBA), the Board will begin discussing the selection process for the next superintendent at the end of the summer, when most searches typically begin.”

One could glean from that statement that Interim Superintendent Perry will likely be in place for the balance of this school year, as well as the next.

Announcement was also made of a list of specific

Cherry Creek Assistant Superintendent, Special Populations Tony Poole

changes to the procurement and expenditure approval policies of the District, whereby the threshold for board-approved contracts was lowered from $400,000 to $250,000, and additional approvals will now be required for all contracts over $5,000. Closing that loop, the board “mandated all contracts be reviewed and approved by the Legal Department with failure to do so resulting in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.”

Error by state Department of Health Care Policy and Financing cost millions of Medicaid dollars On January 29, Colorado Public Radio and other outlets reported that a mistake made by someone at the state Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF), around 2020, that was not discovered until 2025, cost the state Medicaid system tens of millions of dollars.

HCPF oversees Medicaid in Colorado.

The problem began when HCPF told providers of larger wheelchairs used in Medicaid’s Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) program to use an incorrect billing code, which resulted in the providers being paid a per-trip fee that grew from $232 in 2020 to $669 by 2025, when the error was discovered. The correct 2025 rate should have been $34 per larger wheelchair ride with one attendant and $65 per ride for those that required two.

The state legislature was told about this situation by its staff on January 27. The Villager has not been able to find an estimate of the fiveyear cost of this mistake but the legislative analyst who

delivered the bad news, told members of the Joint Budget Committee that the correction that occurred in November 2025 was expected to save close to $33 million in the current fiscal year, ending June 30, 2026, and $60.5 million in the coming fiscal year, which runs from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.

When members of the general assembly asked the legislative staff analyst whether the overpayments could be recovered, the answer they got was no, because NEMT providers billed according to the information provided by HCPF. None of the reports to date have indicated whether that is the last word on the subject. They did say that the incorrect higher rate ($669 in 2025) had only been used

by NEMT providers in metro Denver; providers in other parts of the state billed and received the correct rate between 2020 and 2025.

The executive director of HCPF is Kim Bimestefer. No staffing changes there have been announced in that department but a spokesperson

for Governor Polis issued a statement that said the governor’s office “is taking this very seriously and (is) demanding that HCPF ensure it never happens again.”

One of the reasons that has been given as to why this mistake may not have been discovered sooner is that there was an overlapping though unrelated situation involving outright fraud in the NEMT program that was discovered in 2023, leading to an investigation that culminated in federal indictments revealed this month.

On February 10, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that Wesam Yassin, 42, of Douglas County, and Ashley Marie Stevens, 40, of Mesa County, had been separately charged with Medicaid Fraud for illegal acts pertaining to providing NEMT services in 2022 and 2023.

Yassin was charged with six counts of wire fraud, 11 counts of health care fraud, and eight counts of money laundering. Stevens is facing six counts for wire fraud, 11

counts for health care fraud, and six counts for money laundering.

According to DOJ, “From approximately March 2022 to October 2023, Yassin billed Colorado Medicaid… approximately $3.3 million in (NEMT) rides. Alleged in the scheme is one instance where Yassin billed Colorado Medicaid for approximately $283,000 for 64 rides for a beneficiary of which approximately $165,000 represented billing for rides after the date of the beneficiary’s death.

Additionally, the balance of those rides do not correspond to any medical appointments in Colorado. In other instances, Yassin billed Colorado Medicaid for hundreds of thousands of dollars for rides that beneficiaries say never occurred. Proceeds from this scheme were allegedly used for personal gain including the purchase of a home, furnishings, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and cosmetic surgery.”

DOJ reports that the indictment against Stevens alleges, “From approximately

July 2022 to February 2023, Stevens billed Colorado Medicaid…for over $1 million of (NEMT) rides for Medicaid beneficiaries. Of those $1 million, Stevens billed Colorado Medicaid for more than $400,000 for rides for herself and family members, most of which did not have corresponding medical appointments. The indictment alleges that Stevens also billed Colorado Medicaid for over $150,000 for rides for four beneficiaries for whom the rides either did not occur at all or involved a destination unrelated to any medical provider or service. Additionally, the indictment alleges that Stevens billed Colorado Medicaid for more than $450,000 for rides that were 400 or more miles long per patient, per day. Only a handful of those rides corresponded to medical appointments or services, and those destinations were less than 400 miles away. Proceeds from the scheme were allegedly used for personal gain including travel and the purchase of a luxury vehicle.”

February 19, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

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PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

Dear Readers,

What is Probate?

In Colorado, probate is the legal process used to determine and resolve creditors’ claims and to transfer title of assets from the decedent to the devisees (beneficiaries named in the Will) or to the heirs (recipients determined by the law of intestate succession which applies when there is no Will). Depending on how assets are titled and the value, most Wills and intestate estates go through some type of probate process.

If a Will exists, the probate is referred to as a testate estate. If there is no Will, it is referred to as an intestate estate.

The following are descriptions of informal and formal probate estates:

Uncontested Estates (Informal Probate)

The informal probate process is generally used when there is a valid Will or clear intestacy, no contests are expected and there is a qualified Personal Representative ready to be appointed.

The Court has a limited role in the administration of the estate, but ensures that the directives in the Will or law of intestacy are followed and provides a venue for the devisees or heirs to hold Personal Representatives accountable.

Contested Estates and Invalid or Questionable Wills (Formal Probate)

A formal probate estate may be required for several reasons, including when a Will is contested, unclear, invalid, or when there are apparent or actual significant challenges in administration, such as identifying heirs and property title disputes.

The Court may require that the Personal Representative get prior approval for every transaction or may allow the Personal Representative to administer the estate unsupervised.

Under Colorado probate

law, both informal and formal probate estates must be open with the Court for at least six months, but full administration of the estate may take much

longer.

In determining whether to proceed as a testate or intestate estate, on a formal or informal basis, it is best to consult with an attorney experienced in probate matters.

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

Many of my clients have asked: “What are the critical estate plan documents to have?” Merely being married does not give you the legal right to gain access to your spouse’s medical records or make medical decisions on your spouse’s behalf, even in an emergency.

To avoid this problem and to help others care for you and to achieve your overall estate planning goals, the following documents create an effective medical/estate plan package: 1. Healthcare Power of Attorney; 2. General Financial Power of Attorney; 3. Advanced Directive for Medical/Surgical Treatment (“Living Will”); and 4. Will (or a Will with a Trust).

Careful medical/estate planning should include preparation and signing of these documents, to accomplish your goals and protect you, both during your lifetime, and at the time of passing. The Power of Attorney documents allow you to designate those agents whom you authorize to help you on your behalf during your lifetime, and the Will/Trust documents allow you to nominate others to help with your estate after your passing, as well as to identify the beneficiaries and the distributions to them, to accomplish your estate planning goals.

A 30% REDUCTION ON ESTATE PLAN DOCUMENTS IS CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED DUE TO THE COVID-19 CRISIS! FOR A FREE TELEPHONE OR VIDEO CONSULTATION, PLEASE CALL: 5675 DTC Bouldevard, Suite 250 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Telephone: (303) 758-0999 FAX: (303) 758-1091 E-mail: Donald@PetersonLaw.CO

Website: www.donpetersonlawfirm.com

NEWS BRIEFS Denver Summit FC surpasses 40,000 tickets sold for the kickoff Historic demand continues for club’s inaugural home match at Empower Field at Mile High Denver Summit FC has surpassed 40,000 tickets sold for The Kickoff, the club’s inaugural home match at Empower Field at Mile High on Saturday, March 28 at Noon MT live on CBS, marking a historic moment for professional soccer in Colorado.

Tickets for The Kickoff remain available at DenverSummitFC.com, though inventory is limited in several sections as the club approaches what could become a record-setting crowd for its Denver debut.

“Denver is showing the world what’s possible when a community rallies behind women’s sports,” said Denver Summit FC President Jen Millet. “Surpassing 40,000 tickets sold is a reflection of the passion in this city and the belief

in what we are building together. The Kickoff will be more than our first match. It will be a defining moment for Colorado and for the future of the NWSL.” Summit FC will open its first NWSL campaign on Saturday, March 14, traveling to face Bay FC in the club’s debut match live on ION, Denver7/The Spot Denver 3. Two weeks later, Denver will host The Kickoff, the club’s inaugural home match, on Saturday, March 28 against Washington Spirit at Empower Field at Mile High, beginning at Noon MT live on CBS. Empower Field at Mile High is one Colorado’s premier sports venues and will host the historic event.

With a capacity exceeding 70,000, the stadium provides a unique stage for Denver Summit FC’s first home match and the beginning of a new era for professional women’s soccer

across the Front Range.

As the club prepares for its inaugural 2026 NWSL season, The Kickoff represents both a celebration and a statement: Denver is ready to lead the next chapter of women’s sports.

Follow Denver Summit FC on Facebook, Instagram @denversummit_fc, X @ denversummitfc, and TikTok @denversummitfc.

ABOUT DENVER SUMMIT FC Denver Summit FC is Colorado’s women’s professional soccer club.

Owned and operated by Rob Cohen and a group of passionate, local and national investors. Denver Summit FC’s aim is to engage Denver’s vibrant and diverse communities to build the best professional soccer club in the world.

For additional information please visit DenverSummit FC.com.

Denver Summit FC announces inaugural coaching staff Nick Cushing to Lead Summit FC Coaching Staff ahead of Club’s First NWSL Season Denver Summit FC announced today the club’s inaugural coaching and high-performance staff ahead of its first season in the National Women’s Soccer League. Led by Head Coach Nick Cushing, the staff brings a wealth of experience across the professional, international, and collegiate levels, positioning Summit FC to build a world-class environment for players on and off the pitch.

Joining Cushing on the technical staff are Angela Salem and Alan Mahon as assistant coaches, along with former England international Karen Bardsley as Goalkeeping Coach, and James Mitchell as Video Coach.

“Our staff reflects the standards and ambition of this club from day one,” said Nick Cushing, Head Coach of Denver Summit FC. “Each of these individuals brings elite expertise, strong character, and a player-first mindset.

Together, we are building an environment that supports high performance, development, and a style

of football that our players and fans will be proud of.”

Salem arrives in Denver after serving as an Assistant Coach with Bay FC and previously with the Washington Spirit. Prior to moving into coaching, she played professionally for 12 years, including nine seasons in the NWSL with clubs such as Portland Thorns FC, Boston Breakers, and Western New York Flash, as well as international experience in Australia and Finland. Salem holds a USSF B License.

Mahon brings extensive international experience to Summit FC after a successful playing career across England and Europe, including stints with Blackburn Rovers, Wigan Athletic, Burnley, and Sporting CP. A former Republic of Ireland international, Mahon has transitioned into coaching at the highest level, including with the Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team and with Manchester City Women.

Bardsley joins the club as Goalkeeping Coach, joining Summit FC after one of the most decorated goalkeeping careers in the women’s game. Born in California, Bardsley

played college soccer at Cal State Fullerton before earning more than 80 caps for England and winning multiple major trophies over nearly a decade at Manchester City. Since retiring, Bardsley has continued her coaching development through academy leadership and elite player mentoring.

Mitchell joins Summit FC as Video Coach after most recently serving as a Football Analyst with Arsenal Women. The Scottish analyst brings extensive international experience, including recent work with the Scotland Women’s National Team during the 2024 Nations League and European Qualifiers.

Mitchell previously spent time with the Washington Spirit in the NWSL and as a Performance Analyst with Florida State University Women’s Soccer during their national championship campaign.

Tickets for The Kickoff are available now at DenverSummitFC.com. Fans can join Club 5280 today at DenverSummitFC.com.

Follow Denver Summit FC on Facebook, Instagram @denversummit_fc, X @ denversummitfc, and TikTok @denversummitfc.

February 19, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

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LEGALS

PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

COURTS DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of: ADRIAN RESENDEZ AND JOSIAH PRINCE MOORE, Children, and concerning,

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

2021 • 2022 • 2023 • 2024

CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BEFORE THE PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION FOR THE CITY OF CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE ON TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2026, AT 5:00 P.M. FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECEIVING WRITTEN AND ORAL COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Estate of Christopher Hockley. Deceased. Case Number: 2025PR31185. All persons having claims against the abovementioned estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado, on or before June 19, 2026, or the claims may be forever barred. Rabea Taylor, Attorney for Personal Representative, 24 South Weber Street, Suite 205, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.

Published in The Villager First Publication: February 19, 2026 Last Publication: March 5, 2026 Legal # 5005_NTC_Hockley ________________________

CONCERNING: 1). A MINOR SUBDIVISION TO CREATE TWO LOTS FROM ONE LOT, AND 2). A VARIANCE REQUEST TO THE FEE-IN-LIEU OF LAND DEDICATION REQUIREMENT AT 4650 S. UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD. THE APPLICATION IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW ON THE CITY’S WEBSITE AT WWW. CHERRYHILLSVILLAGE.COM/ HEARINGS OR AT THE CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT, 2450 E. QUINCY AVENUE, CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, CO 80113, MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 8:00 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M. OR YOU MAY CALL 303-783-2729 FOR MORE INFORMATION. PROTESTS OR COMMENTS MAY BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT, 2450 E. QUINCY AVENUE, CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, CO 80113 OR PWORKMAN@ CHERRYHILLSVILLAGE.COM ON OR BEFORE THE DATE OF THE PUBLIC HEARING, OR BY PERSONAL APPEARANCE AT THE PUBLIC HEARING. Published in The Villager Published: February 19, 2026 Legal # 31272 ________________________

MARISSA MICHELLE RESENDEZ, JOHN DOE AND ANTHONY RAY MOORE, Respondents, and Paul Resendez, Special Respondent.

Tamra Joanne White, Reg. #22049 Office of the County Attorney Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 E. Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 Phone: 303-636-1884 Case No: 25JV43 Division: 22 NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT CONCERNING JOHN DOE SET FOR MARCH 16, 2026, AT 8:45 AM IN DIV. 22

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

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

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

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

YOU ARE FURTHER COMMANDED to appear before the Court at said time and place, either in person or by Cisco WebEx Meetings. If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin. .

Respectfully submitted February 13, 2026.

Tamra White, #22049 Entering Attorney Published in The Villager Published: February 19, 2026 Legal # 31271 ________________________

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudicatory Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent, JOHN DOE, is set for MARCH 16, 2026, at 8:45 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and enter into a treatment plan by default in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner,

The Arapahoe County District

CHRISTINE TANISHA

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

In the Interest of: ZACARI ZACHARIAS QUINTON HAMM, ZAILON AUSTIN DREAMS HAMM AND CZYARI OLIVIA-YARA HENDERSON, Children, and concerning,

HENDERSON AND ZACHARIAS QUINTON HAMM, Respondents.

Eboni Younger-Riehl, Reg. #42359 Assistant County Attorney Office of the County Attorney Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 eyounger-riehl@arapahoegov. com Phone: 720-874-3265 Case No: 25JV373 Division: 22 NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING ZACHARIAS QUINTON HAMM PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding ZACHARIAS QUINTON HAMM is set on March 4, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112.

You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you.

In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the children dependent and neglected and adopt the prepared treatment plan for you or find that there is no appropriate treatment plan in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

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

•Select your audio setting. If the

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

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

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

If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is scheduled to begin. /s/ Eboni Younger-Riehl Date: February 13, 2026 Eboni Younger-Riehl, Esq. #42359 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner Published in The Villager Published: February 19, 2026 Legal # 31276 ________________________

Misc.

NOTICE OF UNREGISTERED CLAIM NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a private living man gives Notice of Unregistered Claim of priority equitable right, title, and interest in the ANDRU JORDAN WAKEFIELD – PUBLIC ESTATE, State File No. 105-1991-018616, including all assets, rights, interests, proceeds, derivatives, and transmutations thereof.

This Notice is published to place all parties on constructive notice and to rebut any presumption of waiver or abandonment. Claim asserted by notice only, without reliance upon statute, and without prejudice.

For information, send SASE to: Wakefield-Andru: Jordan,℅9203 Highway 6 S Ste 124 PMB 224 Houston, Texas.[77083] Published in The Villager First Publication: February 19, 2026 Last Publication: February 26, 2026 Legal # 5010_Unregistered Claimed ________________________

SPECIAL DISTRICTS CASTLEWOOD WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

2026 Sanitary Sewer CIPP Rehabilitation Project

1. Confidential Proposals for construction of the 1865 S. Quebec Way, 2200 S. Quebec Street, and 1210 S. Quebec Street Meter Vault Rehabilitation Capital Project will be received by the Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District, 2325 S. Wabash Street, Denver, Colorado 80231, on or before 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at which time the proposals will be opened. A summary of results will be distributed to plan holders shortly thereafter. Any proposal received after the above specified time will be returned to the Bidder unopened.

The Castlewood Water and Sanitation District (the “Owner”) is accepting sealed bids for the 2026 Sanitary Sewer CIPP Rehabilitation Project (the “Project”). Sealed bids will be received until the hour of 10 A.M. local time on March 3, 2026 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 33inch sewer pipe including approximately:  1,944 LF of Cured-in-Place-Pipe Structural Fiberglass Liner (8inch) and 340 LF of Cured-in-Place-Pipe Structural Fiberglass Liner (33-inch) and required Service Sealings 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 5, 2026. 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 303-7510741.

Published in The Villager First Publication: February 5, 2026 Last Publication: February 19, 2026 Legal 31244 ________________________ 00100 CHERRY CREEK VALLEY WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT 1865 S. QUEBEC WAY, 2200 S. QUEBEC STREET, AND 1210 S. QUEBEC STREET METER VAULT REHABILITATION CAPITAL PROJECT

The site of the work is within the Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District.

The work generally consists of: • Three master meter vault rehabilitation projects at three separate sites approximately 1 mile apart from each other.

• Selective demolition and removal and disposal or salvage of existing pipeline pieces and spools, valves, meters, strainers, pipe supports, and accessories from within and around existing 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch pipe size master water meter vaults.

• Installation of new replacement pipe pieces and spools and fittings, gate valves, check valves, meter, strainer, pipe supports, and accessories within and around the master meter vault structures.

• The existing precast concrete vault structures are intended to be reused as-is. To aid in construction the existing vault precast top slabs are envisioned to be removed to provide working access inside the vaults, and later reinstalled with new rubr-nek sealant.

• Removal and replacement of asphalt pavement, curb and gutter, and concrete sidewalk impacted by the vault and pipeline improvements. Restoration of disturbed turf landscaping and sprinkler irrigation system.

• The vaults and piping affected by the scope of this project can be isolated from the distribution system and dewatered without impacting service to customers; a temporary water supply or bypass pipeline will not be necessary.

2. The Contract Documents, containing the detailed Drawings and Specifications for the construction work, together with the proposed construction Contract, may be obtained from AE2S at no cost by e-mailing a request with the title of the project to Kami.Klein@ae2s. com, or may be downloaded from BidNet Direct.

3. Bid security in the amount of 5 percent, unqualified, of the total Proposal price, will be required with each Proposal. Character and disposition of such bid security are stated in “Instructions to Bidders” of the Contract Documents. Included with the Contract Documents is a Bid Bond form to be used by Bidders not submitting a cashier’s check or a certified check.

4. Further information will be found in “Instructions to Bidders” of the Contract Documents. Each Bidder will be assumed to be familiar with all Contract Documents, including all Drawings and Specifications.

Cherry Creek Valley Water and Sanitation District

By Lisa Glenn, Manager Published in The Villager First Publication: February 19, 2026 Last Publication: March 5, 2026 Legal # 31273 ________________________ NOTICE OF VACANCIES ON THE BOARDS OF DIRECTORS OF PROSPER COORDINATING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT PROSPER METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOS. 1 - 10 PROSPER WATER & SANITATION FINANCING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT PROSPER PARK & RECREATION FINANCING METROPOLITAN DISTRICT PROSPER REGIONAL WATER & SANITATION SERVICE METROPOLITAN DISTRICT, ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO (COLLECTIVELY, THE “PROSPER DISTRICTS”) TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the Prosper Districts of Arapahoe County, Colorado: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Section 32-1-808, C.R.S., that vacancies currently exist on the Boards of Directors of each of the Prosper Districts. Any qualified, eligible elector of any of the Prosper Districts interested in filling a vacancy and serving on the Board of Directors of any of the Prosper Districts should file a Letter of Interest with the Board of Directors of the respective district by 5:00 p.m. MST on Monday, March 2, 2026, at the address below (or via e-mail to: csorensen@specialdistrictlaw.com).

Forms of Letters of Interest are available and can be obtained from the Prosper Districts c/o Craig Sorensen at McGeady Becher Cortese Williams P.C., 450 E. 17th Avenue, Suite 400, Denver, Colorado 80203; Phone: 303-592 4380; Email: csorensen@ specialdistrictlaw.com.

PROSPER DISTRICTS By: /s/ MARYANN M. McGEADY Attorney for the Prosper Districts Published in The Villager Published: February 19, 2026 Legal # 31274 ________________________

February 19, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES FEBRUARY EVENTS American Art at 250: Masterworks of a Nation When: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Where: live on Zoom. Who: adults RSVP: arapahoelibraries.org. Celebrate 250 years of American creativity with a curated look at the masterworks that shaped our cultural identity — from the sweeping landscapes of the Hudson River School to the bold innovations of abstract expressionism.

Presented by Jane Oneail, founder of Culturally Curious.

CENTENNIAL INSTITUTE EVENT FEB. 24 will host Ayaan Hirsi Ali, who was highlighted in the “Truth Rising” documentary. Ayaan is a Somali-born classical liberal, a free speech advocate and an activist for the rights of women and girls.

Ayaan will share her story of growing up as a devout Muslim before fleeing to the Netherlands as an atheist and her ultimate conversion to Christianity. Followed by a moderated conversation. RSVP: 303963-3157. Event at 877 W. Alameda Ave., Lakewood.

PRESSURE CANNING CLASS FEB., 25, 6-9 pm. Sponsored by CSU Arapahoe County Extension. Register at bit. ly/CSU_Soup ENGLEWOOD CHAMBER RIBBON CUTTING WED., FEB. 25, 3-5 p.m. at Work & Class, 900 E. Hampden Ave., Englewood.

Enjoy food, drinks & music. RSVP lindsey@ myenglewoodchamber.org VICTOR MARX FOR GOVERNOR FEB. 28. Nuur Event Center, 13250 E Mississippi Ave., Aurora. Doors Open 5 pm, program 6 pm. Listen to Victor share his vision for Colorado’s future. Reply to Victor@ emails.victor2026.com ARTMA IS CELEBRATING THEIR 25TH ARTMA-VERSARY! SAT., FEB. 28, 6-10 p.m. at Streets of Southglenn. (6707 S Vine St., D, Centennial).

This art auction funds childhood cancer research with the Morgan Adams Foundation. Features over 200 works of donated art.

2ND ANNUAL STYLE FOR SAFETY FASHION SHOW SAT., FEB. 28, 5-9 p.m. at 8 Cherry Hills Park Dr., Englewood. Benefiting the National Violence Protection Hotline.

Tickets: https://www.zeffy.com/en_US/

ticketing/2ndannual-Style-for-safetyfashionshow.

2026 DENVER REPUBLICAN CAUCUS TUE., MARCH 3, 7:00 p.m. (check in 6:30 p.m.) Watch for details on location. Elect precinct leaders, choose delegates, etc.

CENTRAL CITY OPERA’S 13TH ANNUAL THEATRE OF DREAMS GALA APRIL 10 5:30 p.m. at the Lanny & Sharon Martin Bldg. at the Denver Art Museum - 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Denver. Celebrating Colorado’s 150th Anniversary, Central City’s 94th Summer Festival and “The Ballad of Baby Doe.” Early bird pricing thru Jan. 15.

Attire: Black Tie- Dress in your finest gold & silver as a tribute to the precious metals that defined Colorado’s Gilded age. RSVP. COLORADO BALLET ONE GALA THURS., APRIL 16, Denver Center Performing Arts Complex. Jill Anschutz, chair.

5:00 p.m. cocktail reception - Ellie Caulkins Opera House; 7:00 p.m. dinner, honoring Artistic Director Gil Bogg’s for 20-year anniversary with Colorado Ballet in Seawell Ballroom. 9:00 p.m. performances in Opera House; 10:00 p.m. Dessert, music & dancing.

CENTENNIAL FINE ARTS FESTIVAL MAY 30-31 at the Streets at SouthGlenn.

Featuring award-winning regional & national artists. Sponsored by the Centennial Arts & Cultural Foundation. Deadline to submit art is Feb. 28. https://artist.callforentry.org/ festivals SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER MAYORS’ PANEL 2026 Hosted by Business Leaders for Responsible Government. THURSDAY, MARCH 12,3 pmLone Tree Arts Center. Free for members. $35 for non members. Six Regional Mayors share their perspectives in one place. Representing mayors from Greenwood Village, Littleton, Centennial, Englewood, Castle Pines and Lone Tree. RSVP: mcolazzi@best chamber.com CLUB NEWS OPTIMIST CLUB OF MONACO SOUTH FRIDAYS from 7-8 a.m. for the pasts 49 years.

American Legion Hall, Yale & I-25. Call Frank 303-759-9232 for a free breakfast. Have fun meeting new friends and an opportunity to give back to the community.

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

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

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

BUSINESS NEWS AISLYN DERMATOLOGY Dr. Aislyn Nelson MD, PhD dermatologist is located in Lincoln Medical Center, 11960 Lioness Way, Ste. 225, Parker. 719-992-0127. www.aislynderm.com “We Do It All.”

WHAT’S NEW? DENVER BALLET GUILD LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS FEB. 27-MARCH 1 Needed for the 2026 Young Dancers Competition. Register: Access the 2026 YDC Volunteers

COLORADO BUSINESS HALL OF FAME THURS., FEB. 5 “Igniting the Future.”

Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center. 2026 Laureates: The Appel family, Buz Koelbel, Chuck Morris, Blair Richardson,George Solich, Tweet Kimball. RSVP. Coloradobusinesshalloffame.org

NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW At the National Western Stock Show The Grand Champion Market Steer “Boots” sold for $320,000. Buyers were Bank of Colorado and CEO of the National Western, Wes Allison. Reserve Grand Champion Steer sold for $125,000 to Ames Const. Co.; Grand Champion Hog sold for $85,000 to OXY. Reserve Grand Champion Hog sold for $120,000 to Transwest Trucks, Inc. Grand Champion Lamb sold for $55,000 to TRM Foundation, Audra & Sean McNicholas.

BECOME A CONTESTANT IN THE 2026 MS. COLORADO SENIOR AMERICA PAGEANT If you are 60 or older - you qualify as a contestant for the pageant in April 25, 2026.

This is not a beauty contest; contestants will compete in a private interview, evening gown, philosophy of life, and talent. The winner will appear at community events, parades and represent Colorado at the national pageant in Atlantic City. Every contestant becomes part of the Colorado Cameo Club, joining an incredible sisterhood that performs throughout the community.

Contact Pageant Administrator Rene’ Green at 720-384-6249 or renemcsap@gmail.com www.coloscramerica.com “BLACK BASEBALL’S HEYDAY” Capturing an Era in Art and Words, Written

by Villager author Denny Dressman and Art

by Anthony High. Pre-Order Now! https:// www.mcfarlandbooks.com/product/BlackBaseballs-Heyday/ COLORADO DEMOCRATS TO HOLD 2026 STATE ASSEMBLY IN PUEBLO MARCH 28, 2026 at the Memorial Hall.

SOUTH METRO CHAMBER BUSINESS IN FULL BLOOM ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS SHOW APRIL 24, 6-10 p.m. Nominations open!

Nomination close after Feb. 27. Reservations 303-795-0142.

JOSHUA TREE EXPERTS CERTIFIED ARBORISTS Schedule a Winter Arborist Inspection to develop a tree care plan for the winter time.303-229-8777. www. joshuatreeexperts.com/denver-south-co ROGERS & SONS INC. ELEVATED CLIMATE CONTROL Curated Cooling & A/C Services; Radiant Heating & Snow Melt Integration; WholeHome Humidification and more. Private Consultations: 720-408-7411. https:// rogershvac.com CARLA’S A CLASSIC DESIGN From unique gifts to festive decor. Shop small and local at The Streets at Southglenn, 6851 S. Gaylord St., Centennial. 303-683-0372 GE TREE SERVICE Trusted & Reliable for 20 years. A Certified Arborist, Licensed & Insured, Family Owned & Operated.Free estimates. Call 303-500-2017. www.coloradotreeremoval.com THE GARDENS GARDEN CENTER ANNOUNCES NEW OWNERSHIP Locally family-owned-and operated. 9542 S. Univ. Bvld., Highlands Ranch. Open Mon.Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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

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

HOST YOUR EVENT AT THE JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT FREE ENTERPRISE CENTER In Greenwood Village. Events @ JARockyMountain.org CHERRY HILLS ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE 6325 S University. Blvd., Centennial. Call for Tour 720-592-0252 PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION + MORE5 Star Google Reviews. Transportation Executive Services LLC. Call 720-969-5386.

ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE SENIOR LIVING Upscale dining, engaging events and activities. Call 720-684-5913. Located at 133801 E. Yale Ave., Aurora.

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

720-531-3998.

THE EYEWEAR COLLECTION Owner Aaron Mozes is a CCHS graduate.

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

BKC KITCHEN & BATH Free consultation & estimate. Visit showroom at 4151 S. Natches Ct., Englewood. 303-7617477.

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

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

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • February 19, 2026

Your spot for coworking, coffee, events and more.

The Space and Cafe by Arapahoe Libraries is a state-of-the-art community coworking and event space, now open to the public. Coworking and meeting spaces are offered free of charge.

FEATURES

For more information, scan the QR code or visit arapahoelibraries.org

z In-house cafe

z Audio and video recording rooms

z Coworking space

z Free Wi-Fi, printing and copying

z Meeting rooms z Event space z Light catering services

W E D N E S D AY S 5–9PM

HUMP DAY

Weekly Martini Specials CALL (855) 546.7866

for

R E S E RVAT I O N S

L O C AT E D I N B E L L E V I E W S TAT I O N