2-22-24 Villager

VOLUME 42 • NUMBER 13 • FEBRUARY 22, 2024

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PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • February 22, 2024

Immigration as a Colorado workforce solution

BY FREDA MIKLIN GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER

The 10-year budget and economic forecast released by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) on February 7, “estimates the labor force will be larger by 1.7 million potential workers in 2024 and 5.2 million more in 2033 then the CBO expected one year ago,” because of net immigration to the U.S., according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.

The Washington Post reported that an accompanying note to the 10-year forecast from the director of the CBO said that, because of the immigration-driven increase in the labor force, GDP from 2023 to 2034 will be greater by about $7 trillion and revenues (i.e., taxes paid to the federal government) will be greater by about $1 trillion than they would have been otherwise.

Colorado Business Roundtable (CBR), an affiliate of the National Business Roundtable based in Washington, D.C., recently hosted a speakers panel on, “Immigration as a Colorado Workforce Solution,” at the campus of Met-

From left to right, Robert Barnes, Senior Consultant Strategic Workforce Planning, Xcel Energy, Brock Herzberg, Principal Capitol Focus, Kit Taintor, Vice President, Welcome.US, Alexandre Padilla, Professor of Economics, MSU Denver, Dee Daniels Scriven, Director, Office of New Americans, Debbie Brown, President, Colorado Business Roundtable

ro State University Denver (MSU).

Panelists from MSU, Xcel Energy, Capital Focus, LLC, the Office of New Americans (ONA), and Welcome.US talked about the need to modernize the U.S. immigration system to ease local workforce challenges while helping immigrants assimilate.

CBR President Debbie Brown served as moderator.

In her welcome address, President Brown noted that Dr. Janine Davidson, MSU president, is a member of the CBR board of directors, adding that the collaboration of academia, business, community, and government is the

Photo Courtesy of Colorado Business Roundtable

“secret sauce” that empowers CBR to formulate ideas and solutions to problems.

She also shared that she recently attended an event that featured former U.S. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, a strong fiscal conservative, who pointed to modernization of our immigration system as a key to increased economic success in the U.S. Dee Daniels Scriven, Director of ONA, shared that, as of 2021, 9.6% of Coloradans were immigrants and 33% of all immigrants to our state held at least a bachelor’s degree. She also pointed out that Colorado immigrants contribute $5.9 billion in taxes an-

nually, of which $1.9 billion is state and local, and that the top five countries from which Colorado’s immigrants hail are Mexico, India, Korea, El Salvador, and China.

ONA, Daniels Scriven explained, was established by the state legislature in 2021 and has launched the Global Talent Task Force to identify in-demand occupations and eliminate barriers to those occupations for internationally-trained professionals, including doctors. They are committed to finding jobs for immigrants that utilize the skills and talents they have brought with them to this country, focusing, in large

part, on those who are able to obtain work permits, including refugees from Venezuela.

She pointed to a $500,000 private donation ONA recently received that they believe will help get 2,000 people into jobs.

Daniels Scriven also talked about the National Governors Association (NGA), of which Gov. Polis is currently vice-chair. NGA has formed a committee on immigration, comprised of 12 governors, split evenly between the two major political parties, who are working to develop principles focused on immigration reform to promote workforce participation.

She completed her presentation with, “Immigrant integration is critical to our national economy and to Colorado’s economic success.”

The impact on our state, she explained, comes from Colorado being the fourth fastest aging state in the country, so an increasing part of our population will be over 65, and the forecast shows a decline in the number of people under the age of 18, thus, “Without net immigration through 2030, we project to have deficits in the 0 to 44 age group and we already have two job Continued on page 10

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February 22, 2024 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3

Stuck in the Middle Country singer Scott McCreery sings about how he is “not all holy water and not all Jim Beam,” but he’s “somewhere in between.” That’s kinda like many people in the United States of America. And, interestingly, that “in between” perspective accurately describes the political views and affiliations of Americans, who are generally a moderate center-right bunch and more likely independent voters, unaffiliated with either major party. Unfortunately, the two-party system in our age of divisive politics has left no middle ground. It seems there is no in-between anymore.

I recently saw an editorial cartoon of a man holding two different boxes of Girl Scout cookies as he stands at a table, asking which are the Republican and which are the Democrat cookies. It’s satire, of course, but not actually far off from the feelings of too many Americans. It’s literally become that absurd. People have started to act as if the clothes they wear, the beer they drink, the entertainment they watch, and sadly even the neighborhoods where they live are either one party or another. Too many Americans believe there are just two sides to every issue, and one is always right and the other is always wrong.

When I was growing up in the 1970s and early 80s, I can recall numerous times when my dad would say, “I still haven’t decided who I’m going to vote for yet.”

That might be surprising to anyone who knew my father after the late nineties, when it appeared he was a one-ideology-straight-party-ticket voter. Yet, he had been registered as both a Democrat and a Republican at different times in his life. I recall when I first heard the pejorative term RINO, which stands for “Republican in Name Only,” and it struck me as the most ridiculous idea.

The idea of party purity and straight-ticket voting is in many ways the opposite of freedom. The idea that voters and candidates don’t feel like they have the autonomy to decide issues and choose leaders based on their individual merits as opposed to preconceived alignment seems counterintuitive in a country and political system based on individual rights. Unfortunately, many independent, free-thinking voters feel “stuck in the middle” between two political parties which are neither truly liberal nor conservative and which don’t really seem to know or care what those terms actually mean.

In the 1960s and 70s, party unity on roll call votes in Congress averaged about 60%, with representatives voting the party line just un-

der two-thirds of the time.

Similar percentages could be found among voters aligning with just one party. However, by 2020 the roll call vote had reached highs of 95%. That’s simply not healthy for a democratic republic. Too many representatives are clearly not voting their conscience nor are they actually representing all their constituents. In “safe voting districts,” where the incumbents have 60% of the vote and never face a challenge, 40% of their constituents are effectively disenfranchised. That is terrible for

America. It can lead to people feeling they must leave their communities and even states to go live where they have a voice and where they are with “people like them.”

As an educator, I believe it’s difficult to teach kids to simply think critically and develop their own opinions when they don’t see that modeled anywhere else. Teachers should teach students how to think, not what to think. Yet, everywhere else students are told what to think by leaders and role models who have narrow, inflexible ideas.

While Liz Cheney and Mitt Romney are firmly opposed to re-nominating Donald Trump, they can hardly urge a vote for Democrats after they’ve spent their careers demonizing the other party. Similarly, it’s difficult for leaders like Hakeem Jeffries or Chuck Shumer to concede opposition to Joe Biden or progressive politics when they’ve spent a career claiming Democrats are the only answer.

The new independent political organization called the No Labels Party is designed to unite moderate Democrats, Republicans, and middle-ofthe-road independents, giving a voice and option to those who feel stuck in the middle.

These voters are neither Fox News nor MSNBC, and they see the current political climate as “clowns to the left of me and jokers to the right.”

Sadly, the nature of contemporary politics suggests third parties have no legitimate chance in a system designed to protect the major parties.

This will continue to disenfranchise and alienate all those who are feeling somewhere in between.

Michael P. Mazenko is a writer, educator, & school administrator in Greenwood Village. He blogs at A Teacher’s View and can be found on Twitter @mmazenko. You can email him at mmazenko@gmail.com

In the 1960s and 70s, party unity on roll call votes in Congress averaged about 60%, with representatives voting the party line just under two-thirds of the time. However, by 2020 the roll call vote had reached highs of 95%.

ARAPAHOE COUNTY C NVERSATIONS The deadline for nominations is approaching!

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WEEK OF FEB. 19

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • February 22, 2024

My election ballot sense weakness arrived in the mail last in American week for the presidential foreign policy primary election. I will under President cast my primary ballot Biden. And for this week for my choice sure, the borrealizing that no presidender crisis, with

BY BOB SWEENEY millions of mitial candidate should be removed by a state court. grants pouring into the The Supreme Court will United States, would not soon rule on whether state be occurring. Trump was a courts can remove presiden- strong friend to Israel during tial candidates, rather than his term in office. voters. If state courts can American security has remove federal candidates, been breached and we can that would be the end of our expect more terrorism and Republic of people choosing crime to spread across our leaders to govern rather America and to our cities than by appointed judges. and suburbs. It is a very sad This impacts the future of time for law and order in presidential elections and America. democracy of citizens voting Colorado is now a major for leadership with lawsuits blue state and my vote for brought by political motivat- Trump is only symbolic ed partisans. The decision that he will be the Colorado should be unanimous from candidate. I liked all three the Supreme Court that votof the major candidates, but ers, not state courts, should Trump appears to be the make the final decision on Republican choice. It is still all candidates, regardless of uncertain who will carry political party affiliation. the final Democrat ballot, Former President Donald but I believe that President Trump is his own worst enBiden will be the candidate, emy with his rhetoric. If he if physically able to run. He would stick to policy issues, is still popular with many instead of name calling, he Democrat voters, and in probably would still be in Colorado with two Demothe White House. What I’ve crat Senators and a Goveralways liked about Trump is nor, has poured billions of his ability to get hard tasks dollars into this state. Coloaccomplished. His business rado has certainly received experience paid off for our share of the gravy train, American trade and he was including the military Space able to extract billions from Force taken back from Althe Chinese and Mexican abama. Good work by our governments in tariffs. He Washington delegation. was also able to force NATO I note that the State Legallies to pay more for their islature is moving a bill to own continent defense with ban gasoline engine usage America footing most of on state lands and will only the bills for the Ukrainian allow electric equipment to defense while allies lagged operate on state property. far behind. He states, and I hope they can find some I tend to believe what he charging stations somewhere says, that Russia would not out in our vast state lands have invaded Ukraine if and parks. he was still in office. LikeAn old joke goes that wise, China would not be a tourist was driving by a threatening Taiwan as they beautiful farm with exquisite

fields and stopped to visit with a farmer on his tractor.

“You have a beautiful place here and you are so fortunate to have this fine property, God has been very good to you,” the tourist said. The farmer replied, “Well, you should have seen this place before I arrived when God owned it by himself.”

Most of the election interest in Colorado will focus on the Congressional Districts with at least three Congressional seats seeking new leadership. The drama will extend to both the Eastern Slope and Western Slope with incumbent Rep. Boebert moving to Eastern Colorado to run for retiring Ken Buck’s seat.

In Arapahoe County Jason Crow is a shoo-in for re-election, along with Diana DeGette in Denver.

They both have seniority, working hard for their constituents, and will easily be re-elected.

Republicans should concentrate on re-electing incumbent Jeff Baker as the sole Republican County Commissioner on the five-member board. George Brauchler is returning to politics, seeking to be elected District Attorney in the newly formed Arapahoe County 23rd Judicial District. He has stepped down from his stint as a radio talk show host on radio KNUS710, where he was well received. Radio talk show host Jimmy Sengenberger also departed from KNUS with his last broadcast this past Saturday morning, being replaced by longtime KNUS host Peter Boyles.

The current 18th Judicial District Attorney John Kellner is not seeking re-election and is still active as a high-ranking officer in the Marine Corp Reserves. He

lost his prior bid seeking higher office as the State Attorney General in the last election cycle.

Political party caucuses are on tap in early March and our award-winning governmental reporter Freda Miklin will be following both party races and events with her weekly Villager “Follow Freda” political coverage.

I’m going to be writing more about early day western history and my days growing up where John Rolfe Burroughs’ book was entitled, “Where the Old West Stayed Young.” My family homesteaded in that area way back in 1885 and I have many real-life experiences to relate on ranch life before electricity, telephones, and television.

All, in all, we have some exciting news coming your way so stay tuned to The Villager to be well-informed on our democracy. We’re on our 43rd year serving Arapahoe County and the only locally owned independent family newspaper left in the County. Subscriptions are $75 a year. Call 303-7738313 to order your subscription or mail your check to 22095 E. Chestnut Pl., Aurora, CO. 80016.

Some of my Democrat friends tell me that they like to read The Villager to find out what the Republicans are doing. We have been covering our state and county leadership, regardless of political affiliations, for many years. We just want good transparent government and well-informed voters. We do welcome your letters, emails, and input.

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Reverend Martin Niemoller “In Germany, the Nazis first came for the communists and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a communist. Then they came for the Jews and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists and I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist. Then they came for the Catholics and I didn’t speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me and by that time there was no one left to speak for me!”

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thieves is putting forward its chief swindler and its chief thief for the presidency.

We must vote against him, struggle against him.

– Alexei Navalny

February 22, 2024 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

INTERESTINGPEOPLE

I was asked to do a monthly interview for The Villager of someone interesting in the local community. This column will alternate every 2-3 weeks with an article about my travel adventures. As anything new is a bit of an experiment, I am testing this concept IN THE EYES OF BRIAN on myself first. My last Bio Retinal specialist, writer, such autobiography was Greenwood Village resident in 2015 when I began email: joonbug@mac.com writing for The Villager, with an introductory oped about myself. I created eight questions which will hopefully offer a glimpse into someone’s life and thoughts. So here is the inaugural “Voices of The Villager” interview series, with Brian interviewing Brian.

Let’s learn about your roots. Share a bit about where you grew up and your journey to Denver?

I grew up in New Jersey, just outside of New York City. My educational journey took me to upstate New York, Chicago, and Miami.

After settling in Southeast Michigan for a decade, my family and I moved to Auckland, New Zealand for several years. When returning to the US, we wanted a clean, safe, and vibrant city with great skiing and recreational opportunities.

and professionally, could you share a pivotal moment that left a lasting impression on you?

My wife Shirley was an early victim of COVID, suffering a severe and prolonged illness, due more to treatment protocols at the time, rather than the virus, ultimately ending her life. It was a horribly and tragic upending event for my family and I, but the lessons were legion. It reinforced the importance of friends, family, and faith and reminded me that life is unpredictable and finite, not to be delayed or squandered.

Family bonds often bring us immense pride.

Would you be willing to share a cherished moment or achievement involving your family that holds a special place in your heart? In 2001, we left a comfortable life in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, including my busy medical practice, to move halfway around the world to New Zealand. Shirley and our kids were excited to take on this new challenge and in this adventure we all thrived down under. We grew closer as a family and gained an appreciation for both America and the immense and diverse world outside the US. The flame for my family’s love of travel was lit in New Zealand.

Photos by Brian Joondeph Brian at the Al-Shaheed Monument, also known as the Martyr’s Memorial, in Baghdad

to my life, but life to my years. I travel as much as my schedule allows and have been writing about my adventures in these pages. Summer golf and winter skiing round out my activities.

Ellen, my girlfriend of a year and a half, has been a great partner and sidekick in many of these pursuits.

Denver is a culinary melting pot.

Could you recommend one or two local restaurants that hold a special place in your heart?

Missing Shirley’s cooking, I have learned to cook and have made what I, and my posse, think are some great meals. So honestly, I would rather enjoy a tasty meal in my kitchen or back deck. But local favorites include Venice, Undici, Hapa Sushi, Eddie V’s, and the Pancake House.

Denver is known for its unique charm and diverse offerings. What specific elements of life here do you find most enchanting and why?

Offerings which brought us to Denver 20 years ago are largely gone. But the climate and mountains are the two biggest attractions for me. Having a major airport in Denver makes traveling much easier than it would be from a smaller city.

As we conclude, could you share with us a favorite quote or mantra that serves as a guiding light in your life or encapsulates your outlook on the world?

As a resident deeply connected to Steph, Chris, Shirley, Brian, Miranda, and Eric in front of our home.

From the John Lennon song ‘Beautiful Colorado, what do you perceive as Boy,’ the quote is, “Life is what happens when the most significant challenge currently facing Beyond the demands of daily life, what activities ro hobbies bring you the greatest joy and you are busy making other plans.” It’s a reminder our state? fulfillment in your free time? to be present, not dwell in past triumphs or disThe biggest challenge to the health and well-beI have been a writer for 10 years, with over a thou- appointments, and not fear or anticipate a future ing of Colorado are the politicians. Government sand publications under my belt. I enjoy thinking which may never arrive. Through Shirley’s illness policies and priorities have brought crime, drugs, about current events, formulating ideas, and putand death, I experienced life happening in a way homelessness, and an overflowing illegal miting them into a coherent and hopefully persuasive I didn’t expect, far from our “other plans.” We are grant population, straining government funds and essay. I am also learning about health and wellliving our lives only now, not yesterday and not resources, to the detriment of the entire state. ness, exploring novel ways to not only add years tomorrow.

Without a significant course correction, Denver will continue morphing into San Francisco or Baltimore.

Reflecting on your journey, both personally

Brian and Ellen enjoying dinner at Glenmoor Country Club

Shirley, Steph, and Brian riding a gondola in Venice

PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • February 22, 2024

Rich Sokol, staunch supporter of a strong U.S. - Israel relationship, shares with CCRW Rich Sokol lived in Israel when he was 25. Most of his wife’s family lives in Israel and he has visited many times. His 18-year-old daughter graduated from Littleton High School last May and is now spending her gap year studying in Jerusalem.

Shortly after the Hamas barbaric terrorist attack on October, He went to visit his daughter and volunteer for three weeks.

He returned in December with his wife and 13-year-old daughter. The entire family volunteered helping soldiers and visiting displaced Israeli families.

He began his visual presentation to Cherry Creek Republican women (CCRW) with the history of the region,

proximity of Israel and Gaza, and shared pictures - including some graphic ones, of various segments of the visit and how his family helped. He reminded the attendees that Hamas also holds American hostages! The audience was eager to know how to help.

Sokol is a political activist, businessman, husband and father and a former chair of the Arapahoe County GOP. He is also an elected representative on the South Metro Fire Rescue Board, where he is treasurer. The Golden Rule. The Right Stuff.

Photos by Scottie Iverson

Jerry Gotlieb and his wife Dorothy (CCRW president), keynote speaker Rich Sokol and his wife Rochelle

For donations - lifeline to Israel: www.unitywarriors.com/ rich-sokol Tags by Hostage and Missing Families Forum are being sold to support the families of the hostages

LEFT: Rich Sokol visits with State Rep. Gabe Evans who is running for Congress (8th Congressional District) RIGHT: Terri Johnson, Jane Pope Meehan, Lexi Tehven

René Green given title of Honorary Ms. Senior America Surprise honor for the passionate Colorado State Pageant Administrator bestowed at national competition René Green has been with Ms. Colorado Senior America for over eight years.

She held a board position and moved quickly to the executive board as the Colorado Senior America Pageant Administrator. Just a year and a half ago, she accepted an additional position on the board of National Senior America Alumni Association.

“Being recognized as an Honorary Ms. Senior America was truly a surprise and I felt so honored,” René said. “The women who have received this award have been

an inspiration to me. I love my position as state pageant administrator because I have the privilege to reach out to women who are 60 years and older and encourage them to go after a passion, forgotten goal, and even to just get involved again. “Senior America is not a beauty pageant,” she said.

“We are an organization to uplift senior women, our communities, give back with talents and, the added bonus…we have good girlfriends in Colorado and across the United States.”

“We come in all shapes, sizes, ethnicities, backgrounds, and have gone through many of life’s struggles. I talk to many women who are beautiful inside and out!”

She continued about what Ms. Colorado Senior has meant to her. “I have watched

At the 2019 Ms. Colorado Senior Pageant with two Colorado queens who reigned nationally - Michelle Rahn who represented Colorado in 2004 winning the Ms. Senior America title and the late Gayle Novak representing Colorado in 2018 winning the Ms. Senior America title with Colorado State Pageant Administrator René Green Photo by Scottie Iverson

women build self confidence and become authors, singers, dancers, and feel good about themselves. This is a passion for me and a privilege and now to receive one of the highest honors for doing what I love… well, I am deeply appreciative and feeling truly blessed!”

René wanted to remind those senior women out there who are at least 60 years of age – the age of elegance – that she’s getting ready for the 2024 pageant to be held April 27. It re-defines and gives honor to the senior woman in her glory. It champions the dignity, maturity and inner beauty of all senior women. For more information and deadlines for contestants, call René: 720.384.6249 or visit: www.ColorSr America.com.

René Green is surprised when her honorary queen title is announced by Ms. Senior America President Denise Russo-Calazzo at the masquerade party Photo by Sherri McGhie

Wearing the official Honorary Sash for Ms. Senior America René Green Photo courtesy of René Green

February 22, 2024 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

f o l l ow F R E DA

BY FREDA MIKLIN I am passionate about government and giving our readers straightforward information that will help them make informed choices when they vote. I am also a licensed C.P.A. and former

b e i n t h e k n ow

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 7-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.

with $254,003, Sonenberg Douglas Bruce is a new stealth competitor Yu with $150,817, and Flora with $133,955. for the GOP nomination for CD5 The right to appear on the June 25 primary ballot requires that a candidate for Congress in Colorado either receives 30% of the votes cast by delegates at their party’s congressional assembly or submit valid signatures from 1,500 registered voters in their party who live in the district.

Candidates can also collect the required number of signatures and still present themselves to assembly delegates to shore up support, but if they do that and don’t receive the votes of at least 10% of assembly delegates, their petitions are void and they miss their chance to get on the ballot, so that is a risky option Congressional district assemblies will follow closely after the March 7 caucuses.

CD5

When we last looked, the active recognizable candidates for the GOP nomination for CD5 were State Sen. Bob Gardner, former congressional staffer Jeff Crank, and GOP State Chair Dave Williams.

A check of the most current list of CD5 candidates for the GOP nomination who had petitions approved by the Secretary of State for circulation revealed the names of Gardner and Crank, implying that Williams plans to get on the ballot via the state assembly. Getting 30% of the votes of delegates would not be difficult if he ends up as the only candidate there.

The surprise name on the list of candidates who have had their petition format approved for CD5 was Douglas Bruce, former member of the state House, known for being the author and most visible proponent of the 1992 Colorado Taxpayer

The surprise name on the list of candidates who have had their petition format approved for CD5 was Douglas Bruce, former member of the state House, known for being the author and most visible proponent of the 1992 Colorado Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR).

Douglas Bruce’s petitions for the GOP nomination for CD5 were approved for circulation on February 8, though we could find no official announcement of his candidacy anywhere.

Bill of Rights (TABOR).

Douglas Bruce’s petitions for the GOP nomination for CD5 were approved for circulation on February 8, though we could find no official announcement of his candidacy anywhere.

Bruce has also had several run-ins with the law over the years, the most serious resulting in a conviction for tax evasion and trying to influence a public servant in 2012. In 2016, he was sentenced to two years in prison for violation of the terms of his probation related to not disclosing financial dealings.

In 2008, he was censured on a 62-1 vote of the state House for kicking a news photographer during the opening prayer of the legislative session.

CD3

CD5 candidate Douglas Bruce

CD4

Ballotpedia has ten people listed as currently running for the GOP nomination in this strongly Republican district.

They are, in alphabetical order, Mariel Bailey, Lauren Boebert, Deborah Flora, Richard Holtorf, Trent Leisy, Michael Lynch, Chris Phelan, Justin Schreiber, Jerry Sonenberg, Floyd Trujillo, and Peter Yu. With such a long list, it is no surprise that all the candidates except for Bailey, Schreiber, and Sonnenberg have received approval for their petition format to collect the necessary 1,500 signatures. Simple math tells us that the maximum number of candidates who can get at least 30% of the assembly delegates is three, but history tells us the more likely number is one or two.

We have previously written about all the candidates except Trujillo, whose petitions were approved February 15. We were unable to find any information about him or his candidacy.

Ballotpedia also lists fundraising data for CD4 as of December 31, 2023. It indicates Boebert has $1.3 million cash on hand, followed by

Republican candidates in CD3 who have had petition forms approved for circulation are, alphabetically, Russ Andrews, Robin Heid, Jeff Hurd, Curtis McCrackin, Austin O’Connell, Kimberly Swearingen, and Stephen Varela.

The only other recognizable announced candidate is Ron Hanks. He is a former member of the state House and candidate for the nomination for U.S. Senate in 2022. Hanks is far right and a strong supporter of the former President.

If, as appears possible, he is the only well-known candidate who attempts to get on the June 25 primary ballot via a vote of delegates to the GOP congressional district three assembly, getting 30% of the total should not be difficult. It is possible that other candidates who are planning to petition onto the primary ballot, could also present themselves at the assembly, where they would only need 10% of the votes cast to get on the ballot with sufficient valid signatures on their petitions.

Looking at campaign fundraising, Hurd led all Republicans as of December 31, 2023 with $471,350 cash on hand, followed by Andrews with $238,405, and McCrackin with $15,579. Hanks did not enter the race until December 30, 2023 and federal campaign finance reports are filed quarterly so no data was available for him.

A number that stood out in reports about campaign financing, was $5,146,393, the amount that Democratic candidate for CD3 Adam Frisch, unopposed in the primary, had on hand as of December 31, 2023, after having raised more than twice that amount.

President of the United States Arapahoe County Democratic and Republican for were recently received by mail, the process of selecting all other canprecinct caucuses will be held on March 7 didates for election in November,

In a welcome demonstration of collaboration and good will, Melissa Garland, chair of the Arapahoe County Democrats, and Anne Rowland, chair of the Arapahoe County Republicans, issued a joint press release about caucuses, the first organizing events for the 2024 elections, to be held Thursday, March 7.

Arapahoe County Democrats will hold their caucus via Zoom. All registered members of the party who live in Arapahoe County are encouraged to participate. Early sign-up and information can be found on: www.arapahoedems.org/2024-caucus. The event will start at 7:00 p.m. on March 7, with check-in beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Said Garland, “Caucus starts the

process of choosing the candidates you want to see on the primary ballot in June. It is an important way for the community to come together and participate in statewide politics.”

Arapahoe County Republicans will hold in-person caucus meetings at various locations throughout the county. To find out the location of one’s caucus, Arapahoe County Republicans need to know their precinct number, which can be found, along with their caucus location, on www.arapahoerepublicans.org.

Caucuses will start at 7:00 p.m. on March 7, with check-in beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Rowland encourages all registered Republicans to attend because,

“What could be more American?

Caucus is all about meeting with your neighbors, talking about issues that matter to our community.

Delegates represent the will of the assemblies where our leaders begin to be chosen.”

Unaffiliated voters in Colorado can vote in party primary elections, which will be held by mail ballots sent out beginning June 3 and due on June 25, but they cannot participate in party caucuses. Caucuses are only open to those who were affiliated with one of the two major parties as of February 14, 2024. Anyone who isn’t certain about their party affiliation can find it at govotecolorado.gov.

Although primary election ballots

including Members of Congress, state senators and representatives, and district attorneys, begins at the various assemblies (county, state, congressional, etc.) that follow the March 7 caucus meetings, at which delegates for all those assemblies are chosen by party members who attend/participate, so being a part of your local caucus, whether in person or by Zoom, is a great opportunity to begin to gather support for the candidates of your choice.

You can contact your party chair directly for more information: Anne Rowland, chair@arapahoerepublicans.org 303-779-1115 Melissa Garland, info@arapahoedems.org 303-468-7968

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • February 22, 2024

February 22, 2024 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

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PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • February 22, 2024

Colorado workforce Continued from page 2

openings for every unemployed person.”

The 2024-2034 forecast from the CBO contains the same analysis and conclusion for the country writ large—that we are living longer, making the number of working-age adults in the U.S. an increasingly smaller complement of the total population, while the number of retired folks gets bigger and bigger.

Brock Herzberg, principal owner of Capitol Focus LLC, who has worked on the issue of immigration for over a decade, defined the problem as, “We’re operating under an old system

in a modern world in which other countries…are seeing that immigration is a key solution to continuing to modernize and innovate, while we are not keeping up with the demands and needs of this country and the global environment,” adding that businesses he hears from are frustrated that, “The U.S. is 50 years past when it should have modernized its immigration system.”

Kit Taintor, Vice President, Welcome.US, agreed that our 50-year-old immigration system “is not agile enough to respond to the demands.”

She went on, “There is a public narrative that, ‘People just

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need to come the right way,’ but there is no right way for people who are seeking safety and refuge in the United States. There is no line to get in. That sort of noise and rhetoric in our system is very harmful.”

Taintor continued, “We have an asylum system that is trying to meet the needs of all newcomers to our nation when it’s not set up to do that.” As a result, she said, “What we’re seeing here at the local level is migrants coming without work authorization, without support systems, without infrastructure that we need to harness the skill sets of newcomers,” adding, “There has been some innovation under the Biden administration (including) an app at the border called CBP One…If you make an appointment and you come through that process, you are granted humanitarian parole and that allows you access to work authorization. It’s a diverse and complex system. We need wholesale solutions to drive the sort of change that our economy needs.”

Alexandre Padilla, chair of the MSU Department of Economics, pointed out, “The system is not designed to attract workers. The system has been designed to make it very difficult for business to hire workers to help make their businesses more profitable and better serve consumers. It’s politics. Most voters are not well informed (about) what the research shows.

Politicians…exploit people’s beliefs, biases, and stereotypes about foreign workers. That leads to the system we have that penalizes businesses, hurts innovation and (especially) talented women in many sectors.”

Robert Barnes, senior consultant in workforce planning at Xcel Energy, reminded the attendees that Xcel “has made a commitment to be 80% carbon-free by 2030 and 100% carbon-free by 2050,” and, “With that comes some substantial challenges as far as our workforce goes…We need a sustainable talent pipeline (for) power plants located in rural areas that are sometimes difficult to hire in and are highly populated by migrants. A modern immigration system would absolutely help immigrants looking for work...

Most of our workers in these highly skilled jobs make an incredible living and all the skill development happens on the job.”

Debbie Brown responded, “When we think about solutions, we think about federal and statewide immigration policies that are modernized, market-based, predictable, and sustainable,” noting that the biggest problem is obtaining authorization to work for immigrants while they are waiting for their legal status to be sorted out. Coincidentally, that was the message in the headline on page one of last Sunday’s Denver Post, as well.

Herzberg added that, “A lot

of innovation is happening at the state level because of the inaction at the federal level…

We need to work on visa reform; the asylum process is abhorrent—it takes four to four-anda-half years to go through that process.”

He pointed to the ability of immigrants, regardless of status, to get a Colorado driver’s license that went into effect a decade ago as an example of a positive step toward getting migrants into the workforce, especially in rural areas.

Kit Taintor noted that although Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Humanitarian Parole (HP) are tools that provide some migrants an opportunity to get access to work authorization, neither status leads to a path for citizenship because our immigration system is so antiquated.

Professor Padilla pointed to Canada, Australia, and New Zealand as having the most upto-date, successful immigration systems. He noted that, even with an H-1B Visa, which allows the most highly skilled foreign workers who have specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience to work in this country, it is very difficult to get permanent residency status. Canada, he shared, recently announced that anyone in the U.S. with an H-1B Visa is welcome to emigrate to Canada, where they will be awarded permanent residency status.

303-883-8928

The contributor’s name, hometown and phone number must 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. Letters deadline 10 am Monday. Please limit to 200 words.

Submit your letters by email to: gerri@villagerpublishing.com 303-773-8313

February 22, 2024 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

Rockies aren’t alone as Spring Training begins Another baseball season is upon us—the Rockies’ first spring game is Friday.

And while nothing in this column is intended to excuse Rockies ownership for decades of relative mediocrity, a little perspective seems appropriate.

Specifically: The Rockies aren’t the only team that’s never won the World Series.

This may come as a surprise to those disgruntled fans who are influenced by the vocal critics who continually badmouth Colorado’s 31-year-old Major League Baseball franchise for its dearth of success.

But, Rockies fans, you are not alone. And, in fact, you are not the longest-suffering.

The Never Champions List is down to five now that the Texas Rangers finally won it all last season—in the franchise’s 63rd year.

San Diego and Milwaukee head the remaining five.

Those Padres began play in the National League in 1969.

That’s 55 years ago, 24 more than the Rockies at this point.

In slightly more than a half-century, the Friars have compiled the EXACT same winning percentage as the Rockies through 31 seasons: .465.

They’ve lost 100 or more games five times (to Colorado’s one); have had 37 losing seasons (67.2% to the Rockies’ 68.8%); and have made six trips to the postseason, including two lost World

Series (compared to Colorado’s five postseasons and one lost Series in just over half as many seasons).

The Brewers also were born in 1969, but as the Seattle Pilots. They moved to the former home of the Braves after one season in the Pacific Northwest.

So, this franchise has been trying to win a World Series as long as the Padres, albeit as two teams and from both leagues at different times. Like the Rockies, the Crew has had one chance—losing in seven games to St. Louis 11 years before the Rockies began play.

The Pilots were replaced by the Mariners in 1977. Although their 116 wins in 2001 broke the American League record set by the 1998 Yankees, the M’s are the only MLB team to never even appear in a World Series. They began with 14 straight losing seasons and have lost 100+ five times.

That leaves Tampa Bay. The Rays, nee Devil Rays, were dismal during their initial decade, finishing last nine of their first 10 seasons. The name change came in 2008, and—voila!—away went the futility.

The newly named Rays won the American League pennant in 2008 and went to the World Series, losing in five

games to the Phillies.

They’ve been to the postseason each of the last five seasons, losing their second World Series, 4-2 to the Dodgers, in 2020.

Of note, given the frequent knocks on the Rockies’ supposedly limited spending: Tampa Bay’s Opening Day payroll has exceeded $83 million only four times and has been less than $50 million in 11 of 26 seasons.

This brings me back to springtime in the desert.

More than any of the perennial also-rans described above, the 2024 Rockies remind me of the Baltimore Orioles.

The Birds last appeared in the World Series 10 years before the Rockies came into existence, when they beat Philadelphia in five games.

Since then, they endured a stretch of 14 losing seasons in a row (’98-’11) and lost 100+ in three straight full seasons (’18-’21). In 1988, they started the season 0-21.

But last season, fortified with several good, young players, Baltimore won 101 games. And the Orioles begin this year among the top World Series contenders, with a potential Rookie of the Year in Jackson Holliday, son of Rockies pennant-year star Matt Holliday.

That doesn’t mean I predict anything close to triple digits in wins for this edition of the Rockies.

But, Ezekiel Tovar, Nolan Jones and Brenton Doyle are three reasons to think Colorado could be turning the corner, just as Baltimore did. There are others in the pipeline, and two or three of those prospects might be factors sometime this season.

The key, as it always has been and will continue to be in Denver, is pitching. Right now, those prospects are not as obviously promising.

But at least General Manager Bill Schmidt seems to recognize the pitching reality and is attempting to stockpile arms in the hope that a few will pan out.

If you still need a bright side, be thankful this is not Pittsburgh.

Since 1993, the Rockies’ first year, the Pirates have had only three winning seasons.

Denny Dressman is a veteran of 43 years in the newspaper business, including 25 at the Rocky Mountain News, where he began as executive sports editor. He is the author of 16 books, nine of them sports-related. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@comcast.net.

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House advances bill Even The Denver Post makes to prevent evictions, mistakes…but what really matters? homelessness The House on Feb. 20 passed legislation in a 3819 vote to prevent evictions and keep Coloradans safely housed, outlining the conditions when landlords would have grounds to file for evictions or “no-fault” lease terminations. Majority Leader Monica Duran, D-Wheat Ridge said, “Current Colorado law leaves renters vulnerable to homelessness and an eviction on their record that can make it nearly impossible to find housing. This legislation will reduce evictions and offer a greater sense of community that hardworking Colorado families and renters deserve while ensuring that landlords can still file for evictions when appropriate.”

“Nearly 13,000 evictions were filed in Denver last year, having a devastating impact on Colorado renters and leaving many homeless,” said Rep. Javier Mabrey, D-Denver. “These aren’t just numbers, these are real people who deserve a safe place to call home.

This ‘For Cause Eviction’ legislation strengthens protections for renters and provides stability for landlords by clearly outlining the reasons why an eviction can be filed. Our bill is essential in preventing the displacement of renters and protecting vulnerable Coloradans from

facing unnecessary evictions.”

Currently, Colorado law exposes renters to possible arbitrary, retaliatory or discriminatory evictions.

The ‘For Cause Eviction’ legislation would prevent a landlord from evicting a tenant unless there is cause for eviction. Under HB241098, the reasons a landlord could lawfully evict a tenant include failure to pay rent in a timely manner, destruction of property, interfering with the right to quiet enjoyment, or a substantial violation of the rental agreement.

The bill also includes allowable reasons for a nofault lease non-renewal, including substantial repairs or conversion of a residential premises, and selling the property. Some exceptions to the ‘For Cause Eviction’ bill include rentals within the landlord’s primary residence, short-term rentals, mobile homes and for employers who provide housing to employees.

Evictions threaten the health and safety of Coloradans, with research showing that individuals who experience an eviction are more likely to report poorer physical or mental health outcomes. In 2023, Denver set a new record of annual evictions, reaching nearly 13,000 filings.

After a spate of misstatements, including President Biden forgetting names and dates and former President Trump confusing his opponent for the GOP nomination, Nikki Haley, who was his U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, many Americans are wondering what to think about mistakes made in public statements.

We wondered the same thing when we saw The Denver Post refer to Jason Presley as Arapahoe County Sheriff on its Op-Ed page last Sunday. Presley is a 19year veteran of the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office, where he serves as one of about 500 sworn officers. He

Jason Presley, whose name is misspelled here on page 2 of the Sunday Perspective section of the February 18, 2024 Denver Post, is not the Arapahoe County Sheriff.

was also a candidate in the 2022 Republican primary for Arapahoe County Commissioner District Two but lost that race to Mark Gotto, who lost to Democrat Jessica Campbell-Swanson in the general election.

Presley’s contribution to the Post’s Op-Ed page was to call attention to HB24-1219 First Responder Employer Health Benefit Trusts.

It would expand available health benefits for firefighters and peace officers for cancer treatment, cardiovascular screenings, and other health screenings and prevention. In his Op-Ed, Presley points out that, “Police officers are 25

times more likely to die of a heart attack than to be killed by a suspect, and the average age for that heart attack is 46 years old.”

Deputy Presley suffered a severe heart attack at the age of 47. He stopped breathing and had to be resuscitated, despite maintaining an exercise regimen and a good level of fitness.

HB24-1219 is sponsored by four members of the general assembly, one Democrat and one Republican from both the House and the Senate.

And, as an old friend of mine once said, everyone makes mistakes. That’s why pencils have erasers.

Denver Zoo rescues 130 animals from Seaquest in Littleton Last week, Denver Zoo rescued nearly 130 animals from SeaQuest in Littleton, which received multiple citations and complaints for animal welfare concerns and injuries to customers since it opened in 2018. SeaQuest recently decided to close its Littleton location, leaving their animals in need of new homes, including a keel-

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new, safe homes for many of them. The animals are getting acquainted with their new habitats behind the scenes at the Zoo’s Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital and Tropical Discovery, and the Zoo’s animal care team reports that the new additions are settling in well and will be viewable to guests and members soon.

“We have a number of rescued animals living here at the Zoo and take the responsibility of bringing in these animals very seriously,” said Bert Vescolani, President and CEO of Denver Zoo. “We’re fortunate to have the space, resources, and animal health and care expertise to provide the best possible care for these animals, and happy we could assist in this coordinated effort to give them a great new home.”

February 22, 2024 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

Does Medicare cover weight-loss treatments?

Dear Savvy Senior, Does Medicare cover any weightloss treatments for overweight retirees? I just turned 65 and need to lose about 100 pounds and would like to know if Medicare can help.

Overweight Owen

Dear Owen, Yes, traditional Medicare does indeed cover some weight-loss treatments like counseling and certain types of surgery for overweight beneficiaries, but unfortunately it doesn’t cover weight-loss programs or medications. Here’s what you should know.

Who’s Eligible

For beneficiaries to receive available Medicarecovered weight-loss treatments your body mass index (BMI), which is an estimate of your body fat based on your height and weight, must be 30 or higher.

A BMI of 30 or above is considered obese and increases your risk for many health conditions, such as some cancers, coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and sleep apnea.

To find out your BMI, the National Institutes of Health has a free calculator that you can access online at nhlbi. nih.gov/health/educational/ lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm.

What’s Covered

If you find that your BMI is 30 or higher, Medicare Part B will cover up to 12 months of weight-loss counseling conducted by a medical professional in a primary care setting (like a doctor’s office).

Most counseling sessions

entail an initial obesity screening, a dietary assessment and behavioral therapy designed to help you lose weight by focusing on diet and exercise.

Medicare also covers certain types of bariatric and metabolic surgery for morbidly obese beneficiaries who have a BMI of 35 or above and have at least one underlying obesity-related health condition, such as diabetes or heart disease.

You must also show that you’ve tried to lose weight in the past through dieting or exercise and have been unsuccessful.

These procedures make changes to your digestive system to help you lose weight and improve the health of your metabolism.

Some common bariatric surgical procedures covered include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, which reduces the stomach to a small pouch that makes you feel full even following small meals. And laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, which inserts an inflatable band that creates a gastric pouch encircling the top of the stomach.

Mounjaro for diabetes only, not for weight loss! So, your doctor will need to prescribe these medications for diabetes in order to get them covered.

Medicare also does not cover Wegovy or Zepbound because they’re approved only for weight loss.

The reason behind the weight-loss drug omission is the Medicare Modernization Act, which specifically excluded them back when the law was written 20 years ago. They also excluded drugs used for cosmetic purposes, fertility, hair growth and erectile dysfunction.

Without insurance, weight-loss medications are expensive, often costing $1,000 to $1,300 a month.

To help curb costs, try websites like GoodRX. com or SingleCare.com to find the best retail prices in your area. Or, if your income is limited, try patient assistance programs through Eli Lilly (LillyCares.com) which makes Mounjaro and Zepbound, or Novo Nordisk (NovoCare.com) the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy.

Medicare Advantage

If you happen to be enrolled in a private Medicare Advantage plan, you may have coverage for

gym memberships and some weight loss and healthy food delivery programs. These are considered expanded supplemental benefits and

have gradually been added to some plans to provide coverage for nutrition, health and wellness. Contact your plan to see what it provides.

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PAGE 22 | THE VILLAGER • June 8, 2023 PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • February 22, 2024

LEGALS LEGALS

COURTS SUMMONS – NOTICE OF HEARING

COLORADO, Petitioner,

Probate Court, Horry County, South Carolina In re: Estate of Carrie Ann Hughes Case No: 2023ES2603868 Jacob Hughes v. Zachary Pollara

IN THE INTEREST OF

TO:

And concerning,

ZACHARY POLLARA

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Petition filed in the above referenced Probate matter within thirty (30) days after the first publication of this Summons and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Petitioner’s attorney at the following address: Butler Law Attn: Danny V. Butler, Esq. 4420 Oleander Drive, Suite 203 Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 For your information, the Petition was filed December 21, 2023 with the Clerk of the Probate Court for Horry County, South Carolina. You can obtain a copy of the Petition from the Office of the Horry County Probate Court located at 1301 2nd Ave, Conway, SC. Your Answer must be in writing and signed by you or your attorney and must state your address, or the address of your attorney if signed by your attorney. If you fail to answer the Petition within the time aforesaid, judgment by default will be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

A hearing has been set in the above-entitled action on April 3, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED to be present in the Probate Court for Horry County, South Carolina, Courtroom 2A, Horry County Government and Justice Center located at 1301 2nd Ave., Conway, South Carolina at the above-stated hearing at that date and time.

Danny V. Butler, Esq. Phone: (843) 808-9224 Email: dbutler@butlerlaw.net Published in The Villager First Publication: February 8, 2024 Last Publication: February 22, 2024 Legal # 11461 ___________________________ DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF

NEVEAH MARTIN AND SAVANNAH MARTIN, Children,

PATRICIA JANE HAFFORD AND WILLIAM JAMES MARTIN (DECEASED), Respondents, And concerning, PATRICIA DAVIS, Special Respondent.

Linda Arnold, Reg. No. 16764 Office of the Arapahoe County Attorney Attorney for the People Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 Tel: 303-636-1882 Fax: 303-636-1889 Case No: 23JV400 Division: 23 NOTICE OF ADJUDICATORY COURT TRIAL AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT REGARDING RESPONDENT PATRICIA JANE HAFFORD PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the above captioned matter has been set for an ADJUDICATORY COURT TRIAL AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT REGARDING RESPONDENT PATRICIA JANE HAFFORD on March 8, 2024, at 11:15 a.m. (MST) in Division 23 of the Arapahoe District Court. ** 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-Div23 • 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 and enter access code 2598 320 5548 (followed by #, #). In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

Linda Arnold, Esq., 16764 Assistant County Attorney Published in The Villager Published: February 22, 2024 Legal # 11473 ___________________________ 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 In the Interest of: KIMBERLY JIMENEZ, KARINA JIMENEZ, YARITZA MIGUEL, AND GIOVANNY MIGUEL, Children, and concerning, ANDREA JARA, JOSE ALONZO JIMENEZ AND ROBERTO CRUZ MIGUEL JR, Respondents, and JOSE JARA TINOCO, Special Respondent.

Sarah Simchowitz, Reg. #44890 Attorney for the Petitioner 14980 E. Alameda Dr. Aurora, CO 80012 Tel: (720) 800-5788 Case No: 23JV359 Division: 22

NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING ROBERTO CRUZ MIGUEL, JR. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Default Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding ROBERTO CRUZ MIGUEL, JR. is set on March 12, 2024 at 2:30 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112.

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

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

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

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

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

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

SPECIAL DISTRICTS ADVERTISEMENT REHABILITATE TAXIWAYS C AND D AIP NO. 3-08-0029-060-2024 (BIL) and 061-2024 (AIP) CENTENNIAL AIRPORT ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO Sealed bids for AIP No. 3-08-0029-060-2024 (BIL) and 061-2024 (AIP), at Centennial Airport, Englewood, Colorado, will be received by the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, 7565 South Peoria Street, Englewood, Colorado 80112, until 10:00 a.m., local time, on March 27, 2024, and then opened, read aloud and canvassed.

The work involved includes the following: Schedule I Rehabilitate Taxiways C and D (Federal) Schedule II Construct Taxiway S3 (Federal) Schedule III Rehabilitate Taxiway D Electrical (Federal) Schedule IV Reconstruct Taxilane C2 (Federal) Schedule V Rehabilitate Taxiway C (Non-Federal) A complete set of Plans and Bidding Requirements and Contract Documents may be obtained on or after February 28, 2024 on Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/colorado.

The major work items include earthwork, variable depth milling, patching, crack repair, asphalt paving, concrete repair, saw and seal concrete joints, cement treated subgrade, crushed aggregate base course, underdrains, drainage, installation of headwall, pavement marking, thermoplastic markings, marking removal, electrical rehabilitation to edge lights and signage, placement and compaction of asphalt millings.

All bidders are advised to examine the site to become familiar with all site conditions. The project will be discussed and shown to interested bidders at 10:00 a.m., local time on March 13, 2024, at the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, 7565 South Peoria Street, Englewood, Colorado 80112.

Each bid must be accompanied by a Certified Check or Cashier’s Check in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid, made payable to the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, or by Bid Bond in like amount executed by a Surety Company.

All bidders are advised that the right is reserved by the Sponsor to waive any informality in, or to reject any or all bids.

Any questions must be submitted to Kirstie Wilson and Molly McGuire, JACOBS, via email to Kristie.Wilson@jacobs.com & Molly.mcguire@ jacobs.com. Questions are due by 10:00 a.m., March 20, 2024. Questions received after this time will not be accepted.

Published in The Villager First Publication: February 15, 2024 Last Publication: March 7, 2024 Legal # 11465 ___________________________ ADVERTISEMENT 2024 RUNWAY10/28 SEAL COAT AND MARKING REMOVAL AND REMARK AIRFIELD CENTENNIAL AIRPORT ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO Sealed bids for 2024 Runway 10/28 Seal Coat and Marking Removal and Remark Airfield, at Centennial Airport, Englewood, Colorado, will be received by the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, 7565 South Peoria Street, Englewood, Colorado 80112, until 10:00 a.m., local time, on February28, 2024, and then opened, read aloud and canvassed.

The work involved includes marking removal, rapid cure seal coat, and remarking Runway 10/28 asphalt pavements and remark the airfield. Work on Runway 10/28 and Taxiway C connectors must be completed prior to May 25, 2024.

A complete set of Plans and Bidding Requirements and Contract Documents may be obtained on or after February 7, 2024, via email to Molly.

McGuire@jacobs.com.

Each bid must be accompanied by a Certified Check or Cashier’s Check in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid, made payable to the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, or by Bid Bond in like amount executed by a Surety Company.

All bidders are advised that the right is reserved by the Sponsor to waive any informality in, or to reject any or all bids.

Any questions must be submitted to Molly McGuire, JACOBS, via email to molly.mcguire@jacobs.com. Questions are due by 10:00 a.m., February 21, 2024. Questions received after this time will not be accepted.

Published in The Villager First Publication: February 15, 2024 Last Publication: February 22, 2024 Legal # 11467 ___________________________

scheduled to begin.

Date: February 17, 2024 Sarah Simchowitz, Esq. #44890 Assistant County Attorney Attorney for Petitioner 14980 E. Alameda Dr., Aurora, CO 80012 Phone: (720) 800-5788 Email: SSimchowitz@arapahoegov.com Published in The Villager Published: February 22, 2024 Legal # 11474 ___________________________ 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 In the Interest of: JAMES PAYNE, JR, and LAZIYAAH PRIDE Children, and concerning ETTIENNE STUART (DECEASED), CHRISTIAN PRIDE, TONY ANDERSON, and JOHN DOE, 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) 636-1889 Case No: 22JV432 Division: 22 NOTICE OF DISPOSITIONAL HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT – JOHN DOE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Dispositional Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent Father, John Doe, is set for March 25, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112 virtually via Webex. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

The Arapahoe County District Court is holding some 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 OR 1-415655-0001. When prompted enter code 2594-887-9073 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 13, 2024 Shannon Nichols, Esq. Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the People Published in The Villager Published: February 22, 2024 Legal # 11475 ___________________________ 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 In the Interest of: JAMES PAYNE, JR, and LAZIYAAH PRIDE Children, and concerning ETTIENNE STUART (DECEASED), CHRISTIAN PRIDE, TONY ANDERSON, and JOHN DOE, 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) 636-1889 Case No: 22JV432 Division: 22 NOTICE OF DISPOSITIONAL HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT – TONY ANDERSON PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Dispositional Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent Father, Tony Anderson is set for March 25, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112 virtually via Webex. You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

The Arapahoe County District Court is holding some 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 OR 1-415655-0001. When prompted enter code 2594-887-9073 If you elect to appear in person, you must be at the Courthouse a half hour before the hearing is

Continued on next page

LEGALS LEGALS

June 8, 2023, THE VILLAGER | PAGE 23

February 22, 2024 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

Classified Advertising Colorado Statewide

ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES HOSTS PROM ATTIRE NOW-FEB. 29. Clothing Donation Drive at Castlewood, Eloise May, Koelbel, Sheridan, Smoky Hill and Southglenn libraries. Free Clothing Swaps Sat., March 2 1-5 p.m. at Smoky Hill Library, s5430 S. Biscay Circle, Centennial. Info: arapahoelibraries.org or Call 303-542-7279.

ENGLEWOOD CHAMBER RIBBON CUTTING & OPEN HOUSE FEB. 23, 4-7 p.m. at Rooted 303, 5933 S. Fairfield St.,Littleton. Celebrate Rooted 303’s move into a new space. RSVP: 303-789-4473.

KALEIDOSCOPE 2024 FUNDRAISER FOR ROCKY MTN. CHILDREN’S HEALTH FOUNDATION. SAT., FEB. 24. Reception 5 p.m., Dinner & Program 6:30 p.m. Featuring a Live Charity Auction at the Ritz-Carlton, Denver. Honoring Dr. Reginold and Faye Washington.

CANCER LEAGUE OF COLORADO AUCTION MEETING FEB. 28, 4-6 p.m. at Brothers bar & Grill, 7407 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree. Food & Cash Bar. Bring items for the Hope Ball Auction. Info: barbarasreece@aol.com

COLORADO PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY ELECTION TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2024 PRESENTING ON STAGE ALASKA EVENT. MULTI-MEDIA PRESENTATION FROM AAA TRAVEL Expert Planning Advice - View Stunning Film Footage. MARCH 5, 6 p.m. at Doubletree

by Hilton, 8773 Yates Drive in Westminster.

Reserve your seat online at AAA.com/ HollandAmerica 12TH ANNUAL JUNIOR LEAGUE OF DENVER JOURNEY FUNDRAISER MARCH 8, 6 p.m. (International Women’s Day.) At Mile High Station. Bubbles & Bow Ties theme. Lauren Whitney with CBS Cool will emcee, Halie Behr - auctioneer. Tickets JLD.org or 303-692-0270.

ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETING MARCH 7, 7 p.m. at Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway, Englewood. Info: Gail 720-3777682.

NATIONAL HISTORY DAY COLORADO EVENT FEB. 28, 2:00 p.m. with remarks from Dr. Nicki Gonzales, Curriculum Scholar. In partnership with Colorado Humanities, for the unveiling of the NHDC Denver’s Chicano Movement Curriculum. Hostsed by History Colorado Center, in the Atrium, 1200 N. Broadway, Denver. Light refreshments.

Questions: Kelly.evanciger@ucdenver.edu

CHERRY CREEK CHORALE PRESENTS “HOPE’S JOURNEY” MARCH 8 & 9. Pre-concert talk at 7:10, Concert begins at 7:30 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden Ave., Cherry Hills Village. Bach, Beethoven, Hagewnberg, Hayes & many others. Tickets: Visit CherryCreekChorale.org or purchase at the door. Cecilian Singers, directed by Phil Drozda, from Overland High School will also perform. The Chorale has approximately 100 members with Artistic Director & Conductor Brian Leatherman.

ENGLEWOOD CHAMBER AFTER HOURS NETWORK & RIBBON CUTTING FEB. 28, 5-7 p.m. Chula on Broadway, 3866 S. Broadway, Englewood. Commemorate the completion of the facade of Chula’s building.

RSVP; lindsey@myenglewoodchamber.org

CHERRY CREEK REPUBLICAN WOMEN ”PUTTIN’ ON THE GLITZ” MARCH 12 Tuesday, 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM Luncheon and Fundraiser Dress to Impress as the theme implies Entertainment (Colorado’s own Frank Sinatra), Silent and Live Auctions DoubleTree Hotel, 7801 E.

Orchard Road, Greenwood Village 80111 $50. pre-paid reservations by March 5 www. cherrycreekrepublicanwomen.org ARAPAHOE COUNTY COTTAGE FOOD SAFETY MARCH 13, 5-8:30 p.m. Learn food safety guidelines and the specifies of operating a home-based cottage food business from a home kitchen. To RSVP scan the QR code in the Arapahoe County ad on page 3.

SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2024 MARCH 14, 5-8 p.m., Curtis Ballroom at The Landmark/Comedy Works in Greenwood Village. Cocktail attire/ cocktails, Hors’d’oeuvres. Register: Jeff Keener at jkeener@bestchamber.comST. SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS 2024 MARCH 14, 5-8 p.m., Curtis Ballroom at The Landmark/Comedy Works in Greenwood Village. Deadline for nomination, Feb. 10.

Contact Jeff Keener at jkeener@bestchamber. com WANT TO PUBLISH AND SELL MORE OF YOUR BOOKS? MARCH 15 online – zoom via your computer or MARCH 16 in person at Dr. Briles office.

Lunch & snacks with one day intensive training. Early Bird registration ends Feb. 17.

Register: https:/./bit.ly/PublishingUnplugged ST. THOMAS MORE PARISH SERVICES MARCH 28, Holy Thursday, 7:00 p.m. - Mass of the Lord’s Supper. MARCH 29, Good Friday, 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. - Celebration of the Lord’s Passion. MARCH 30, Holy Saturday, 8:00 p.m., Solemn Vigil of Easter. MARCH 31, Easter Sunday, 7:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Mass. There will also be a Spanish Mass at 12:30 p.m. The Parish is located at 8035 S. Quebec St., Centennial. Call 303-770-1155 or stthomasmore.org

COURTS scheduled to begin.

Date: February 13, 2024 Shannon Nichols, Esq. Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the People Published in The Villager Published: February 22, 2024 Legal # 11476 ___________________________ 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 In the Interest of: SINCERITY RIVERA, Child, and concerning AISHA RIVERA AND JOHN DOE, 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) 636-1889 Case No: 22JV477 Division: 22 NOTICE OF DISPOSITIONAL HEARING AND DEFAULT JUDGMENT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Dispositional Hearing and Default Judgement regarding Respondent Father, John Doe, is set for February 26, 2024, at 11:15 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112, virtually via Webex. You have the right

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

The Arapahoe County District Court is holding some 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 OR 1-415655-0001. When prompted enter code 2594-887-9073 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 13, 2024 Shannon Nichols, Esq. Assistant County Attorney Attorney for the People Published in The Villager Published: February 22, 2024 Legal # 11477 ___________________________

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COLORADO AUTHORS’ HALL OF FAME TO OFFER FIVE $2,000 SCHOLARSHIPS For aspiring Colo. authors & authors-tobe. Winners will have an opportunity to participate in an extensive 12-mo.

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16. Scholarships envisioned by founder of the Hall, Dr. Judith Briles. Info: www.

ColoradoAuthorsHallofFame.org ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS 1ST & 3RD THURSDAYS at 7 p.m. at Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway, Englewood. Next meeting: March 7. Info: Gail 720-377-7682.

ARAPAHOE COUNTY 4TH ANNUAL SPRING WINE & CHALK FESTIVAL MAY 18 & 19. At the Fairgrounds.

Early bird discount thru March 1. Visit arapahoecountyeventcenter.com ROCKY MOUNTAIN BOYS STATE JUNE 2-8 FOR HIGH SCHOOL JUNIORS Premier civic program in Sterling, CO. Applications: www.CoLegionBoysState.org WHAT’S NEW IN AWARDS? FINALISTS FOR DCPA STUDENT PLAYWRITING COMPETITION “CONSIDER THE RAVENS” by Victoria Schnell - Cherry Creek High School. “MY FUTURE IS (KINDA) IN YOUR HANDS” by Esther Weiss - Cherry Creek High school.

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MS COLORADO SENIOR AMERICA ACCEPTING CONTESTANTS FOR 2024 Ms. Colorado Senior America is not a beauty pageant. The pageant re-defines and gives honor to the senior woman in all her glory. It champions the dignity, maturity and inner beauty of all senior women. Currently accepting contestants who will be 60 years old or better by our pageant date of APRIL 27, 2024.This is the year to do something for yourself and have fun! Call Rene’ Green at 720-3846249 for more details. (ColoSrAmerica. com)

ARAPAHOE COUNTY TREASURER NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED

NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE AND OF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEED

To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the same was Taxed and/or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It May Concern, and more especially to

To Every Person in Actual Possession or Occupancy of the hereinafter Described Land, Lot or Premises, and to the Person in Whose Name the same was Taxed and/or Specially Assessed, and to all Persons having an Interest or Title of Record in or to the said Premises and To Whom It May Concern, and more especially to

PRONGHORN DEVELOPMENT LLC, ANTELOPE INVESTORS, LLC, ANTELOPE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

JACK D WICHERS AND JULIA C WICHERS REVOCABLE JOINT TRUST, JACK D WICHERS, JULIA C WICHERS, TREVOR VERNON, INA GROUP LLC

You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 4th day of November, 2020, A.D., the then County Treasurer of the County of Arapahoe, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to FIG CO19, LLC, a tax lien on the following described real estate situate in the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado, to-wit: LOT 35 ANTELOPE HILLS 1ST FLG EX M/R’S aka 552 ANTELOPE DR E and the County Treasurer issued a Certificate of Purchase therefore to FIG CO19, LLC; Whereas, FIG CO19, LLC did, on the 25th day of OCTOBER 2023 duly assigned the certificate of the sale of the tax lien on the property as aforesaid, and all its rights, title, and interest in said property, to BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent general taxes and/or special assessments assessed against the real estate for the year 2019; That said real estate was taxed and/or specially assessed in the name(s) of PRONGHORN DEVELOPMENT LLC for the year 2019; That BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC, on the 25th day of OCTOBER, 2023, the present holder of said Certificate, who has made request upon the Treasurer of said County for a deed to said real estate; That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for the real estate to BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC, on or about the 25th day of JUNE, 2024, A.D., unless the same has been redeemed.

The property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of the Treasurer’s Deed.

Witness my hand this 21st day of February, 2024, A.D. Michael Westerberg Treasurer Arapahoe County Published in The Villager First Publication: February 22, 2024 Last Publication: March 7, 2024 Legal # 11471 ___________________________

You and each of you are hereby notified that on the 4th day of November, 2020, A.D., the then County Treasurer of the County of Arapahoe, in the State of Colorado, sold at public tax lien sale to FIG CO19, LLC, a tax lien on the following described real estate situate in the County of Arapahoe, State of Colorado, to-wit: LOT 60 BLK 1 SIENNA SUB 1ST FLG (VACANT LAND) and the County Treasurer issued a Certificate of Purchase therefore to FIG CO19, LLC; Whereas, FIG CO19, LLC did, on the 25th day of October 2023 duly assigned the certificate of the sale of the tax lien on the property as aforesaid, and all its rights, title, and interest in said property, to BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC. That said tax lien sale was made to satisfy the delinquent general taxes and/or special assessments assessed against the real estate for the year 2019; That said real estate was taxed and/or specially assessed in the name(s) of JACK D WICHERS AND JULIA C WICHERS REVOCABLE JOINT TRUST for the year 2019; That BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC, on the 25th day of October, 2023, the present holder of said Certificate, who has made request upon the Treasurer of said County for a deed to said real estate; That a Treasurer’s Deed will be issued for the real estate to BUFFALO PLAINS 22, LLC, on or about the 25th day of JUNE, 2024, A.D., unless the same has been redeemed.

The property may be redeemed from said sale at any time prior to the actual execution of the Treasurer’s Deed.

Witness my hand this 21st day of February, 2024, A.D. Michael Westerberg Treasurer Arapahoe County Published in The Villager First Publication: February 22, 2024 Last Publication: March 7, 2024 Legal # 11472 ___________________________

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • February 22, 2024

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