Points West Community Bank Announces Acquisition of State Bank of Downs
Points West Community Bank (PWCB) announced today it has entered into an agreement to acquire State Bank of Downs (SBD), Kansas, including its Englewood, Colorado branch operating under the tradename Berkley Bank, pending regulatory approval.
The transaction brings together two fourth-generation, family-owned and operated community banks with a shared commitment to relationship-based banking, local decision-making, and long-term stewardship of the communities they serve.
ty, and award-winning, best-in-class digital banking platform. PWCB’s technology investments are designed to deliver modern convenience, security, and flexibility without sacrificing personal service.
Importantly, members of the Berkley family will retain ownership interest in Points West Community Bank following the transaction, reinforcing continuity in leadership, philosophy, and long-term commitment.
of any operational changes as the two organizations come together. They can also take comfort in knowing that their local leadership and full staff remain in place – committed to serving the communities of Downs and Englewood with the same dedication and care they’ve always known.
“For us, this was never about size –it was about values,” said Tom Olson, Jr., Chairman of PWCB. “State Bank of Downs shares our belief that banking works best when you truly know your customers, understand the local economy, and take a long-term view. That alignment made this a natural fit.”
Founded on strong relationships, State Bank of Downs and Berkley Bank customers will continue working with the bankers they know and trust while gaining access to Points West’s expanded resources, lending capaci-
“When we began looking at the future of our bank, finding a partner who shared our values was the most important thing,” said Brandon Berkley, CEO of State Bank of Downs. “The similarities between Points West and SBD made this decision very natural. Points West believes in the same principles we do – relationship banking, community involvement, and local decision-making. What also stood out was their investment in technology. Their digital banking tools ensure customers can enjoy the convenience of today’s technology while continuing to bank with people who have their best interest in mind.”
“I’m excited to continue working alongside our entire team as we join Points West Community Bank,” said Brandon Berkley.
Headquartered in Windsor, Colorado, PWCB serves agricultural, rural and urban markets across Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming. The bank’s experience across diverse communities positions it well to support customers ranging from farmers and ranchers to small businesses and growing metropolitan enterprises.
State Bank of Downs will retain its name and continue operating as a division of Points West Community Bank. Customers will receive clear, direct communication well in advance
“These banks have strong legacies and deep roots,” said Mark Brase, CEO of PWCB. “Our goal is to honor this history while providing the tools, technology, and stability necessary to serve future generations.”
The transaction is expected to close in mid-2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals.
About Points West Community Bank
Points West Community Bank is a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated community bank headquartered in Windsor, Colorado. Serving customers across three states and 20 locations, Points West is committed to relationship-based banking, local decision-making, and helping communities thrive for generations.
Every Word Counts
A person’s word is one of the few things in life that cannot be bought, borrowed, or faked for long. It is the invisible thread that holds relationships together, builds trust, and defines character when no one is watching. When a person keeps their word, they create a sense of safety. When they repeatedly break it, they leave wreckage in their wake, including broken trust, fractured relationships, and wounds that often linger far longer than the original disappointment. Words, well-spoken and reliable, create a life of integrity. Integrity is not perfection. It is alignment. It is the quiet courage to make our actions match our words, even when it costs us something.
not merely because of rules, but because their word means something sacred.
History remembers those whose integrity outweighed convenience. A firefighter rushing into danger, a whistleblower risking a career to tell the truth, and a recovering addict honoring one sober day at a time are not glamorous acts. They are acts of moral courage. Integrity is often quiet, unseen, and sometimes costly. The tragedy of our culture is that excuses have become fashionable. People justify betrayal, dishonesty, and selfishness as “Doing what feels right,” or ‘Life is too
short. “Yet feelings are an unstable foundation for a meaningful life. Character is built when a person chooses what is right over what is easy. At the end of life, people rarely regret not making more money or gaining more status. They regret broken trust. They regret the promises they failed to keep. They regret becoming someone they never intended to be.
Our words are our legacy. When integrity becomes our compass, people know they can trust our handshake, our promises, our presence, and our heart. In a world starved for authenticity, a person who lives with integrity becomes a light on which others can rely. joneen@ narme.org
Anyone can make promises when emotions run high. It is easy to say, “I’ll be there.” It is easy to vow loyalty at the altar, to pledge commitment in a boardroom, or to express devotion to a child in moments of inspiration. But integrity is revealed later, in traffic, in temptation, in exhaustion, in inconvenience, and in ordinary moments when excuses quietly whisper for permission to compromise.
Imagine a father telling his daughter, “I’ll come to your recital.” She waits anxiously onstage, scanning the audience for his face. Every passing minute feels heavier. The seat remains empty. To the father, it may have been “just one missed event” because work ran late. But to the child, it becomes a painful question: “Am I important enough for people to keep their promises to me?” That is the hidden power of our words. They shape how people see themselves. Think about the employee who cuts corners when nobody is watching, manipulates numbers to look better, or gossips to gain influence. They may climb quickly for a season, but eventually, integrity exposes every counterfeit foundation. Trust, once broken, is painfully difficult to rebuild. A reputation can take decades to earn and minutes to destroy.
People with integrity become anchors in a chaotic world. They are the friends who show up at 2 a.m. when tragedy strikes. They are the business owners who admit their mistakes rather than hiding them. They are the spouses who remain faithful
Friends of Nursing Awards
$180,000 In Nursing Scholarships
It was an honor to be an invited guest again to the annual Friends of Nursing annual spring scholarship luncheon April, 25. It was a bright sunny Saturday held in the new banquet facility at the prestigious Cherry Hills County Club.
The spacious dining room overlooks the club’s championship golf course. The spacious new room accommodated 160 patrons, friends, and nine schools of nursing liaisons present to receive $180,000 nursing scholarships to 35 worthy recipients.
Friends of Nursing was founded in 1981 by Greta Pollard who was present seated with a granddaughter and great granddaughter and just celebrated her 94th birthday one day
prior to the event. The audience recognized the “Patron Saint” of nursing with a standing happy birthday salute.
The Master of Ceremonies was radio personality Rick Crandall, 30-year emcee for the annual scholarship events.
BY BOB SWEENEY PUBLISHER
Crandall is CEO of the Colorado Freedom Memorial in Aurora and recently named Aurora’s “Man-of-The Year” at their recent Chamber awards ceremony.
This year’s theme was “Legacy of Caring,” so well earned by the nation’s nurses who care for all of us in dire times. The 35 honorees will enter a very demanding profession dating back to Florence Nightingale in the very early days of nursing in America.
The newly elected president of FON, Barbara White (chair of the scholarship luncheon),
greeted the audience followed by Rev. Bruce Finfrock who blessed the gathering. Devona Troutman led a tribute to Greta Pollard along with her birthday observance. The program proceeded with Crandall skillfully introducing the award recipients. Beautiful, smart young ladies, outnumbering their male counterparts with only a few award winners unable to participate from such far away schools as Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction. Crandall using his radio broadcasting talents introduced every award winner and the participants gave plaudits to FON for their generous scholarship awards helping make their academic nursing careers possible. Public speaking, no doubt a challenge before a packed audience of 160 people, but a preview of their upcoming
public service in human care and relationships. The nine participating schools of nursing are Adams State University; Colorado Christian University; Colorado Mesa University; Colorado State University, Pueblo; Metropolitan State University; Regis University; University of Colorado; Anshutz Campus; University of Colorado, Colorado Springs; and University of Northern Colorado.
Cynthia Oster, FON second vice-president, chaired the scholarship committee with members Julie Benz, Carla Brown, Tammie Huddle, Devona Troutman, Melanie Wallace, Barbara White, and Carolyn Wolvin.
Friends of Nursing was selected by The Villager Newspaper as our “Nonprofit of The Year” in 2025.
See Scottie Taylor Iverson’s coverage on pages 8 and 9.
G D NEWS
Local Business Earns National Recognition for Second Consecutive Year
5280 Exteriors, a Centennial-based exterior remodeling company serving homeowners throughout Denver, the surrounding foothill communities, and Colorado mountain towns.
The Presidents Club Award is one of the highest honors awarded by James Hardie and recognizes a select group of contractors nationwide for exceptional craftsmanship, installation quality, customer satisfaction, and commitment to the James Hardie brand.
5280 Exteriors is also a James Hardie Elite Preferred Contractor, a designation awarded to only a small percentage of contractors in the market.
Owner Bryce Steckler, a 2002 graduate of Cherry Creek High School, said the recognition reflects the company’s continued focus on quality and long-term customer experience.
“To receive the Presidents Club Award two years in a row is a tremendous honor for our team,” said Steckler. “We’ve worked hard to build a company centered around craftsmanship, communication, and delivering premium exterior remodeling projects for Colorado homeowners.”
Founded in 2006, 5280 Exteriors specializes in James Hardie siding re-
placement, premium window replacement, roofing, and low-maintenance decking systems. The company serves homeowners throughout Greenwood Village, Centennial, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Evergreen, Conifer, and surrounding Front Range communities.
The company has become known for its expertise in Colorado-specific exteri-
or remodeling challenges, including hail resistance, wildfire-conscious construction practices, mountain home projects, and high-performance exterior systems designed for Colorado’s climate.
In recent years, 5280 Exteriors has expanded its educational homeowner outreach through digital plat-
forms including YouTube, Google Business Profile, and other online resources focused on helping homeowners better understand exterior remodeling products and installation practices. For more information about 5280 Exteriors, visit 5280Exteriors.com or CALL (720) 707-6964 FOR A FREE QUOTE
WINDOWS • SIDING • ROOFING • ENTRY DOORS • DECKING
A TRUE FOODIE
Restaurant Reviews and Recipes with Food Columnist Jessica T W O S C O O
jessbcarrington@gmail.com
It’s that time of year many of us call “May-Cember” for good reason! A lot of goodness that fills up the calendar. My son Caden graduated from Leeds Business School in Boulder, and I’m one proud mom!
Celebrations like these call for cake! I made a family favorite and wanted to share. A coconut sheet cake with lemon zest made with some healthier ingredients, (ok not the frosting ha, but the white chocolate, YUM!) I always use sour cream when I make mine, but the greek yogurt works just as well. It yields the most delicious cake that is lovely with a cup of coffee the next morning!
Next column will be a restaurant review. I can’t wait!
Jessica and son Caden
BY FREDA MIKLIN SENIOR REPORTER
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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
Greenwood Village just says no to Landmark residents hoping for equitable treatment
On May 4, the Greenwood Village City Council decided 5 to 3—using an informal vote process—to continue withholding the city’s free trash and recycling service from homeowners in three owner-occupied residential developments: Landmark Towers, Village Lofts, and Village Plaza. The free service is provided to all other GV homeowners, including those in attached and detached single-family homes, condominiums, and townhomes.
The request to include the residents of Landmark Towers was denied before, a few years ago. Then, the opposition was led by former District 2 GV Council Member Dave Kerber, who voted to have Landmark built, when he was on the council two decades ago.
This time, the opposition to providing the service to the homeowners at the three condo complexes appeared to be led by Council Members Libby Barnacle (District 3) and Ann Nelson (District 1). Current Council Members Donna Johnston (District 3), along with Bob Doyle and Jay Schneiderman, who represent District 2, where all three condo complexes are located, supported the effort to include them in the city program.
This attempt to include the homeowners at the three condo complexes began January 5, 2026, as GV started the process to seek bids for a new five-year trash and recycling contract to begin January 1, 2027, when Doyle asked that the bid documents for the upcoming contract include pricing for the three condo complexes that are currently the only owned residential properties, across the city, not receiving the service.
At that meeting, Doyle told his fellow council members that homeowners in those condos “pay the same property tax rate as other (homeowners) and therefore, deserve to receive the same services.” He also said that the price would likely be lower and the service more reliable, if it were provided through the city, rather than the individual condo HOAs, which would be a benefit to the community as a whole.
As part of that discussion, Doyle noted that the trash at the swimming pools in four GV neighborhoods, Sundance Hills, Green Oaks, Greenwood Highlands, and Huntington Acres, is picked up at taxpayers’ expense, for five months each year (May-September), via the city contract. He said he reached out to The Preserve neighborhood, which does not receive this benefit, and found out that The Preserve pays twice as much, for the same service, as what the city contractor charges at the four neighborhood swimming pools it services.
Thirty years ago, when GV informally adopted the policy to provide free trash and recycling services to its homeowners, rather than lower property taxes (it had excess revenue), the program goals were to 1) improve safety in residential areas, and wear and tear on city roads, by reducing the number of heavy trucks in the neighborhoods; 2) improve the appearance of neighborhoods by
having all trash put out and picked up on one day of the week only.
While those goals remain, the program, once envisioned as being focused on picking up trash in plastic carts from single family homes, evolved through the years to include almost all homeowners, including those in condos and townhomes, whether they utilize plastic carts or dumpsters, and some swimming pools operated by HOAs around the city, two of which use dumpsters, in addition to all city-owned properties. The only homeowners in GV who have not received the service, and were refused again on May 4, were those who own condos in Landmark Towers, Village Lofts and Village Plaza.
Around 30 residents from the Landmark Towers and the Village Lofts condominiums were in the room listening at the May 4 study session when Council Member Bob Doyle proposed adding the three condo complexes to the upcoming five-year contract, after reviewing the proposed costs to do so on the bids received.
Doyle said, “The issue is, should we offer this service to property- taxpaying residents (at these three complexes) equal to what we offer to other property-taxpaying residents across the city, as well as a few other places and a few pools?”
Doyle also cited HB22-1355, the Producer Responsibility Program for Recycling, which requires producers of recycled material to reimburse Colorado municipalities for eligible recycling costs. At the May 4 meeting, GV Public Works Director Jeremy Hanak said the city has already applied and that staff expects all recycling costs to qualify for reimbursement.
GV’s annual recycling cost—anticipated to be reimbursed for the first time in 2026—is more than $250,000. Doyle said that fact added support for including homeowners at Landmark, Village Lofts, and Village Plaza.
Council Member Ann Nelson asked Doyle, “How do you propose to address that, if you give Village Lofts and the various places there, and the Landmark, trash, that doesn’t open a floodgate for every other equitable apartment…Also, then, how do I say to people who come from District 3 or District 4 or District 1 who say, well, how come Village Lofts and the Landmark got trash but nobody from our council representatives went door-to-door to solicit for me to put this forth in this contract for the next five years? How do I answer that because it’s not equitable to just give District 2 a little carve-out when you’re not giving that carve-out to everybody else in the city?” She also said that the cost of providing the service at Village Lofts would exceed what homeowners there pay in property taxes to GV.
Doyle responded to Nelson that apartments in GV are commercial property that have never been included or intended to be included in the city’s trash and recycling program. It is for homeowners only and any discussion of apartments is a “red herring.”
He did not address her question about a “floodgate” from other city council districts because there are no homeowners anywhere else in GV, in any district, not currently receiving the service, except those he was asking to add.
Doyle added, “In terms of the property tax paid by homeowners not covering the cost of all the services the city provides, that is true for every home in this city. And Landmark, for example, covers its own road costs and snow removal costs that (in most neighborhoods) are covered by the city.”
Council Member Donna Johnston said, “This has always been a confusing thing to me.” She proposed “creating an ordinance, not just a policy at a study session, that includes the Landmark and the other two condo complexes and cleans this whole thing up, once and for all.”
Council Member Libby Barnacle said that GV would soon be discussing increasing its police officers’ pay, so, “I would rather put our money there than the dumpsters at Landmark…I hope we can put this to bed in an ordinance that excludes this and ends this conversation, going forward, forever.”
Council Member Tom Stahl said, “I looked up a typical (unit) at the Landmark. Out of the $7,400 it pays in annual property taxes, Greenwood Village collects a whopping $214.”
Since there are 275 units in the Landmark Towers, using Stahl’s figures, the Landmark Towers complex pays GV approximately $58,850 per year in city property taxes.
After Schneiderman said he supported Doyle’s proposal because he believed it was the right thing for his constituents in District 2, Council Member Paul Wiesner said he was against “the equity argument,” which he described as, “If I pay so much in taxes, I should get what everybody else is getting,” adding, “There are plenty of things for which a city spends its money that are not evenly divided across the four districts.”
That is not an argument for equity, it is an argument for equality, which is different. For example, residents of The Landmark don’t receive street maintenance or snowplowing. Since their roads are private, that is equitable treatment, even though it is not equal. The classic argument for equity in government is that “similarly situated taxpayers (in this case, homeowners who pay property taxes) should be treated similarly.”
To explain her vote against the homeowners in the three condo complexes, Council Member Katrin Mezger read a statement she had written in advance of the meeting that said, in part, “Expanding city-provided waste collection service to multifamily complexes does not affect the pattern of service in a manner that serves a higher purpose.
Continued on page 7
More than two dozen residents from Landmark Towers and Village Lofts Condominiums came to the GV City Council study session to let councilmembers know this issue was important to them. As is the custom in GV, they were not permitted to speak.
Photo by Freda Miklin
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Continued from Page 8
Being committed to fiscal responsibility, I don’t support extending this service to multifamily complexes and future multifamily development.” The statement did not distinguish between owner-occupied residential units and apartments.
During the 30 years this program has been in effect, it has evolved to include places that have different characteristics.
Most single-family detached homes in the city’s neighborhoods use 95-gallon plastic carts, where trash is picked up weekly and recycling is picked up bi-weekly. Other properties use dumpsters. Some places get more service, though costs vary.
The Hermitage Condominium complex, located at 6001 S. Yosemite Street, was built in 1989. It is comprised of 144
units. Homeowners there get both their trash and recycling waste, collected in eight dumpsters, picked up four times per week, by the city’s contractor at a cost of just under $9,353 annually, if recycling is reimbursed.
At the DTC Roundtree Condos at 6001 S. Willow Way, built in 1974, adjacent to Hermitage, both trash and recycling carts are emptied by the city’s contractor, twice each week, at a cost of $12,827 annually, net of the recycling cost. There are 18 condo-townhomes in that complex, each of whose city property taxes are around $86 per year.
Looking at the pick-up schedule for the four neighborhood pools where trash is picked up five months per year, two use dumpsters and two use trash carts. Three receive service once each week and one, Sundance Hills, receives it
twice weekly.
The cost to provide full trash and recycling services at Landmark, according to the proposal received from the city’s preferred contractor, is $18,000 per year, net of recycling. GV property taxes generated by the two Landmark Towers, as noted above, total just under $60,000 annually.
Trash costs for Village Lofts Condos would be under $7,500 and adding Village Plaza condos’ for trash pick-up would cost under $5,000, annually. Both amounts assume costs for recycling will be reimbursed.
At City Hall and the GV Maintenance Facility on E. Costilla Avenue, trash is collected every weekday and recycling is collected twice a week.
The Maintenance Facility also has bulk waste in extra-large dumpsters removed
as needed about 90 times per year.
Under the terms of the contract favored unanimously by the council, based on a show of hands at the May 4 study session, GV will spend $860,187 annually on trash and recycling, beginning January 1, 2027, before receiving the $250,000+ reimbursement for the recycling portion. Adding the three condo complexes to the contract, assuming recycling costs would be reimbursed to GV, would add $30,500 to that total.
On May 4, when Mayor Lantz asked for a show of hands to determine whether to proceed with Doyle’s request, to add Landmark and the other two condo complexes to the contract, Council Members Donna Johnston, Jay Schneiderman and Doyle voted yes. Paul Wiesner, Libby Barnacle, Ann Nelson, Tom Stahl, and Katrin Metzger voted no.
Rebuild of the Cherry Creek High School campus is progressing
At the May 4 public meeting on construction progress at Cherry Creek High School (CCHS), part of the $950 million districtwide bond voters approved in November 2024, Principal Ryan Silva highlighted a slide summarizing 17 design-input meetings held from January 2025 through April 2026. The meetings involved multiple committees made up of district staff, parents, teachers, community members, and students.
District leaders have long anticipated that bringing Cherry Creek School District facilities up to standard will require three construction phases, funded by three separate bond measures, over about 12 years.
The Greenwood Village campus—home to Belleview Elementary, Campus Middle School, and Cherry Creek High School—is about 75 years old. Together, these schools are three of the district’s 67 campuses that serve roughly 53,000 students. Because of the site’s size, age, and complexity, it is the only campus being rebuilt in multiple phases.
The other capital projects across the district are planned to be started and finished in one phase. Some of those that are part of Phase One include doubling the size of the Cherry Creek Innovation Campus, rebuilding Holly Hills Elementary School, rebuilding Laredo Middle School, the first-ever Overland High School swimming pool, and interior renovation and expansion of the Institute of Science and Technology at Overland HS.
At the CCHS campus, early plans were to begin with rebuilding Belleview Elementary and Campus Middle School and move to CCHS later. That changed, with the concurrence of the principals of Belleview ES and Campus MS, when it became clear that the CCHS West academic building, built in 1950, was literally falling apart and
had to be demolished and replaced as soon as possible. Stemming from that change, Phase One of the campuswide rebuild started with the CCHS West Building and the Athletic Building, which is closest to it. The nearby district administration buildings have also been demolished to allow for the redesign of the main access to the CCHS campus from Union Avenue.
CCSD staff told The Villager, “With any large construction project, some of the challenges and obstacles are unknown until construction begins. A master plan was presented nearly two years ago and indicated that the West Building could be (replaced with) one building. Once we kicked off actual design, it was determined one building would not be sufficient to replace all the academic spaces in the West Building. That triggered the need for a second (West) building and therefore the need to move the tennis courts.” That discovery brought changes to the plans for Phase 1.
Scott Smith, CCSD Chief Financial and Operating Officer, explained that the cost to date for replacement of the West Building is $220 million. District staff, speaking to The Villager after the meeting, explained that, although the cost of replacing the West Building is more than originally anticipated, the sale of the 2024 bonds generated a premium of $75 million, a part of which is available to cover the additional costs. They were quick to point out that only that portion of the premium which is necessary will be used to cover those costs.
Smith also acknowledged that parking and traffic will be ongoing challenges during the rebuilding of the campus, and noted the district is and will continue to work closely
with neighbors, nearby businesses, and especially the City of Greenwood Village, with whom they hope to agree on a way to add temporary parking at Village Greens Park, during construction. He also pointed out that after construction is completed, CCHS will have more parking spaces than it did prior to construction.
The remaining academic buildings and a new swimming pool for CCHS are planned to be completed as part of Phase 2 of the long-term project, beginning in 2028, and a new Campus Middle School and Belleview Elementary School are anticipated in Phase 3, beginning in 2032. Of course, Phases 2 and 3 will also include needed capital projects at other schools across the district, as with Phase 1.
The second and third phase of the long-term rebuild will require approval by the voters for additional school bonds. Although it would be optimal to know, in advance,
the cost to district taxpayers, it is impossible to estimate. Factors that will bear significantly on the financial impact of bonds issued in Phases 2 and 3, to district property owners, include property values and interest rates years from now, how the legislature will use property values to determine property taxes, future construction costs, and future technology and building code requirements for new schools. Less technical details, like how hallways and bathrooms are designed in today’s schools, compared to 1950 when the original West Building was constructed, played a role in the discovery that it would take two new buildings to replace it.
CCSD staff told The Villager, “We appreciate the longstanding support of our community and we recognize that much of our ability to grow, rebuild and innovate for the students in the district depends on the future support of our community.”
CCHS Principal Ryan Silva addressed the community. Photo by Freda Miklin
CCSD Chief Financial and Operating Officer Scott Smith
CCHS site plan at the end of Phase 1 of construction.
CCHS site plan at the end of Phase 2 of construction.
Friends of Nursing hosts “Legacy of Caring” Spring Luncheon and Scholarship Awards at Cherry Hills Country Club The Villager’s “Nonprofit of the Year 2025” honors Greta Pollard 35 students, nine Colorado schools of nursing, $180,000 in scholarships!
FRIENDS OF NURSING
Amy Davis Scholars (presented one per school in memory of philanthropist Amy Davis and funded by the Patton-Davis Foundation):
Ronald Burke, Chenoa Candy, Varaia Carcamo, Noseline Lindor Dasny, James Braxton Newton, Benjamin Phillips, Elena Torres Small, Whitney Weber, Daneilia Whyte
Adams State University, Alamosa Chenoa Candy, Leah Ellefson, Elyce Talavera
Colorado Christian University, Lakewood Jillian Boots, Noseline Lindor Dasny, Christine Lankford, Christine Savage
Colorado Mesa University, Grand Junction Varaia Carcamo, Ellie Klossner, Maya Lindgren, Lindsey Mueggenberg
Colorado State University, Pueblo Ronald (Charlie) Burke, Linus Limo, Kirsten Ludwig, Meghan Schiavo Metropolitan State University, Denver Josephine Pavicich, Hannah Quinones, Kyana Tehrani, Daneilia Whyte
Regis University, Denver Amanda Comiski, Valeria Licon, Benjamin Phillips, Fartun Sherif
University of Colorado, Anschutz Campus, Denver
Jose Guerrero Baez, Jordan Killen, Elena Torres Small, Zachary Ulrich
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Shelbi Aikin, Nicole Fretterd, Jobeth Hawkins, James Braxton Newton
University of Northern Colorado, Greeley Christine Beck, Elle Dusek, Marlo Masters, Whitney Weber
FON Board members: Carolyn Wolvin, Cynthia Oster, Jennah Martin, Melanie Wallace, MacKenzy Adams, Lucy Bleakley, Barbara White, Tammie Huddle, Devona Troutman, Julie Benz Photos by Scottie Iverson
Honoree Greta Pollard, Friends of Nursing (FON) founder surrounded by family – Avery Patton, Jolei Patton and daughter Devona Troutman (FON president)
Part of the large history display devoted to Greta’s nursing career
University of Colorado, Anschutz Campus - Zachary Ulrich, Jose Guerrero Baez
Adams State University - Elyce Talavera, Leah Ellefson, Chenoa Candy
The Men of FON: Albert Carlton, Doug Wallace, Rick Crandall (emcee), Randy Gradishar, John Richey, Michael Fant (board member)
Jeanne Taylor, LaFawn Biddle, Abby Dixon
LEFT: LaFawn Biddle surrounded by daughters Barbie and Belinda RIGHT: University of Colorado at Colorado Springs - Jobeth Hawkins, Shelbi Aikin
Colorado Christian University - Professor Susan Odell (Dean – School of Nursing and Health Professions), Jillian Boots, Christine Lepianka, Noseline Lindor Dasny, Christine Savage
Metropolitan State University of Denver - Daneilia Whyte, Kyana Tehrani, Professor Mallory Brunel, Department of Nursing Chair Jenny Allert, Professor Brandon Kinsey, Hannah Quinones, Josephine Pavicich.
FON members Brenda Olson and Gwen Crawford
Didge Pedicord, Teri Carlson (board member)
Sfollow FREDA NEWS BRIEFS
BY FREDA MIKLIN – SENIOR REPORTER
B26-150 Modernizing Regional Transportation District has passed the general assembly and is awaiting signature by the governor. Effective January 1, 2029, the bill would change the composition of the RTD board from 15 elected members to nine total members, five of whom will be elected and four appointed. Three will be appointed by the governor and one will be appointed from a list of nominees provided by the Denver Regional Council of Governments. (DRCOG).
Boom Supersonic is a startup that moved to Centennial from Silicon Valley in 2016 to take advantage of the aerospace-focused workforce and companies in Colorado, including near Centennial Airport. Since then, they’ve made huge progress toward building supersonic passenger jets. They also used their jet engine technology to develop Superpower, a high-performance turbine to address critical power shortages facing AI data centers. Denver Business Journal reports that Boom is thinking about
leaving Colorado over its increasing focus on AI regulations.
CU-Boulder has announced that in-state undergraduate tuition will go up 3% next year to $13,973, while out-of-state undergrads will pay $45,000 in tuition. At its other campuses in Denver and Colorado Springs, Colorado residents will see a 3.5% bump in their tuition bills, while nursing students at the Anschutz campus will pay 2.4% more.
Colorado State University resident undergrads will see a 3.5% hike in tuition in the 2026-2027 school year, while graduate students will see a 4% upcharge from this year’s tuition rates.
The City of Centennial has launched a special website designed to “help residents understand the city budget pres-
sures.” It’s called yourcitybudget.co and is organized into four sections: Budget Reality, Financial Pressures, Future Priorities, and Sustainable Solution. Centennial residents may want to pay attention to this line on the new website’s home page: “The City sales tax rate has remained unchanged at 2.5% since 2003.” It might be a hint of what is coming next.
There are Five Measures on the November ballot so far for voters to decide: two from Michael Fields of Advance Colorado and Suzanne Taheri of West Group: Penalties for Fentanyl Crimes and Law Enforcement Reporting Requirements to Federal Authorities; three others brought forward by Erin Lee and Michelle Austin: Penalties for Human Trafficking of a Minor, Prohibit Certain Surgeries on Minors, and Males and Female Participation in School Sports. Signatures are being collected for 16 more ballot measures, but some are on the same topic, so we probably won’t have to vote on all 21 in November.
Spring Storytelling Soirée hosted by Unbound Authors
Join us for an evening of storytelling, connection, and community.
Colorado Humanities is proud to share an invitation to the Spring Storytelling Soirée on Friday, May 15 at 6 PM in Centennial hosted by Unbound Authors—an annual gathering that brings together advocates, artists, educators, and supporters who believe in the power of voice and the
importance of access to creative expression.
Across Colorado, Unbound Authors works alongside incarcerated writers to build communication skills, confidence, and pathways to opportunity through storytelling. This event is a celebration of that work—and the community that makes it possible.
SPRING DRINK SPECIALS
This year’s soirée marks a powerful next chapter, including the debut of Unbound Authors’ first anthology and the launch of a statewide prison newspaper through Mercury Mountain Media.
Unbound Authors is a nonprofit writing and communication program working inside Colorado correctional facilities in partnership with the Colorado Department
of Corrections. Led by a formerly incarcerated Executive Director, their work is grounded in lived experience, trust, and authentic relationships.
When you show up, you’re helping ensure that writers inside have access to the tools, support, and platforms they deserve.
We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful evening.
Buying into Rockies wiser than you think
When Greg and Carrie Walton Penner acquired a 40% stake in the Colorado Rockies recently, there no doubt were many people who wondered why the Broncos’ owners would “waste” (or at least risk) a portion of their considerable wealth on a perennial loser like Denver’s Major League Baseball team.
A study by the Greenwood Village-based Common Sense Institute, released a week after the lifeline was thrown to Dick Monfort by the Penners, puts that transaction in a different light.
in the National Football League with an average of 76,585 fans per game. The Nuggets’ 19,286 fans per game ranked second in the National Basketball Association.
“A Top-Ranked Colorado Rockies Baseball Franchise Could Mean Economic Gains for Colorado,” reads the headline on CSI’s report, issued April 17.
Founded in 2010 as the Common Sense Policy Roundtable by a group of significant area business and community leaders, the Common Sense Institute (renamed in 2020) declares on its website: “We believe sound fiscal and economic research is essential to uphold Colorado’s economic vitality, future and individual opportunity.”
In CSI’s press release highlighting results of its study of the baseball team’s potential impact, the local think tank stated:. “The Colorado Rockies could generate thousands of jobs and bring hundreds of millions of dollars of economic activity to Colorado if they were Major League Baseball’s number one franchise.”
To back up that claim, CSI listed several “key findings,” including:
“A top-ranked Rockies team would generate up to $262 million more in Colorado consumer spending.
“Total home attendance would rise from 2.4 million to 3.5 million—a 44% increase.
“This could bring an estimated 55,000-275,000 additional out-of-state visitors. They could generate $35-$185 million in new direct spending during the regular season.
“A first-place finish could result in up to 11 home playoff games (which) could contribute $33-$55 million in visitor spending.
“Including indirect and induced effects from just outof-state visitors, a first-place Rockies team boosts the state’s economy by 1,736-7,341 jobs, $193-$815 million in GDP, $120-509 million in personal income, and $318 million-$1.3 billion in output.”
Is owning the Rockies, whether in full or as the majority investor, really such a promising business move?
Denver is an indisputable major league sports town. It’s the smallest city in the U.S. with franchises in all four major sports. Yet all draw amazingly well.
The Broncos ranked second
The Avalanche were eighth in the National Hockey League with18,067 per game. And the Rockies managed 26,751 per game despite losing 119 times, including 56 defeats at Coors Field.
Add to that, major league men’s and women’s soccer teams, each of which has attracted a crowd in excess of 60,000O for a recent game.
So, I agree with CSI’s premise that Denver COULD support a championship baseball team if the Rockies were to become one.
But I question its 3.5 million attendance projection.
The Rockies exceeded three million in home attendance for nine straight years after their inception. But since the proverbial bloom died, they’ve topped the three-million mark only once in 24 tries.
In the one year Colorado reached the World Series—admittedly in a late-season miracle—the club drew 2,376,250.
There’s also the question of stadium capacity. Major League Baseball says Coors Field seats 46,891. With Standing Room Only added, capacity is 50,144.
If all 81 home games were sold out, which isn’t realistic no matter how good the team is, total attendance would be 3,798,171. The SRO total (for all 81 games, also unrealistic) would be 4,061,664.
As for how many extra games a postseason could produce, it depends on how many the team would win.
I’m not an economist, so I can’t say whether CSI’s estimated job increases are realistic. Likewise, their projections for financial impact.
What I can say is that it will take ownership with virtually bottomless pockets to build the kind of team on which CSI bases its entire scenario—especially without a lucrative television contract.
And even then, there are no sure things. Just ask owner Steve Cohen who has spent a fortune of his fortune trying to turn the New York Mets into the kind of team CSI envisions—without success.
The Penners may fit the description. But they must first wrest control of the baseball team from Charlie and Dick Monfort. Dick will be the hardest sell.
And as someone close to the Broncos told me recently, “It won’t be at the expense of the Broncos.”
Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@comcast.net
STEPHANIE, CEO and FOUNDER
Hi Neighbors!
Other People’s Dogs LLC is thrilled to offer professional, safety-first pet care to our community. At OPD, we are dedicated to loving your dogs with the same passion we have poured into this community for decades.
Meet the Team
Stephanie, CEO and Founder: A proud CCHS alumna (Class of 2013), Stephanie’s journey in caregiving began at age eleven, handing out flyers for her first babysitting business in The Reserve at Cherry Creek Vista. That early passion blossomed into a diverse professional career, including roles as an elementary school teacher, lacrosse coach, Special Olympics swim coach, and Sr. Operations Manager at Junior Achievement-Rocky Mountain. She has officially caught the "entrepreneur bug" to launch OPD.
Brian, Chief Safety Officer: Brian brings an unparalleled level of community trust to the pack. As a local Paramedic and Firefighter, he oversees the well-being of both humans and pets. Thanks to his 20+ years of experience and advanced training in K9 care, OPD offers a level of safety-conscious service that sets us apart from the rest.
Our Safety Promise
All OPD staff are trained to recognize health risks to dogs, including heat and cold exposure, poison ingestion, and proper care protocols. We don't just walk dogs; we provide the peace of mind that your best friend is safe, loved, and active.
Join the Pack
Our services include daily dog walks, vacation drop-ins, and overnight pet care. We guarantee you will come home to a happy, exercised pup. We are so excited to serve the neighborhood that raised us!
The not-so-empty nest:
How to help adult kids achieve financial liftoff
When your children turn to you for financial support and a roof over their heads these tips from Merrill can help you give them the tools they need to move forward on their own.
Most parents have mixed feelings about achieving empty-nest status. They miss their kids but take great pride in knowing they have set them on the path to financial independence. So when a report comes out documenting an increase in “boomerang kids” young adults coming home to live with their parents there is cause for concern.
According to a 2024 Pew Research report, “Parents, Young Adult Children and the Transition to Adulthood,” 57% of young adults aged 18–24 live with their parents up from 53% 30 years ago. Among 25- to 29-year-olds, 21% live with a parent, up from 16%. If they are not living with their parents, many get help with rent or mortgage payments:
According to a Better Money Habits Bank of America survey, “2024: The State of Gen Z’s Financial Health,” 54% of adult members of Generation Z (18–27 at the time) do not pay for their own housing.
Clearly, for many parents, the empty nest is not so empty. Plus, according to the Pew report, 44% of young adults say they received some sort of financial assistance from their parents during the past year.1
Young adults face many financial pressures: inflation, student debt and high mortgage rates, among them. Fortunately, for many parents, helping the kids is not a burden. In the Pew study, only 36% of parents said doing so had adversely impacted their financial situation somewhat in the last year.1 These not-so-emptynesters are more likely to be focused on finding ways to help their kids stand on their own financially.
“Of course, you want to be there for your children when they need financial help,” says Bank of America’s financial gerontologist, Cynthia Hutchins. “But the most important thing you may be able to give them
is a refresher course in the financial basics.” Consider these ways to help your adult children establish better money habits.
Lend an ear and some budgeting advice
If your adult children are asking for help paying their bills, first ask them what financial pressures they are facing. “It can help to share the financial missteps you may have made when you were younger, as well as the financial lessons you wish you had known,” says Hutchins. Let your kids see that mistakes can be overcome if they stick to a wellthought-out plan.
Encourage them to create a budget that prioritizes expenses, designating some things as “needs” and others as “wants.” Are your kids overspending? Suggest that before making any major purchases they ask themselves whether they have met their savings target for the month say, 20% of their paycheck.
Tell them about the trade-offs you made when you were starting out. Next, schedule time for them to talk with your financial advisor, who can offer perspective on the value of having a financial plan and ideas on how to pursue their financial goals, like saving for a down payment or going back to school.
Help out but attach strings
To encourage accountability, think about structuring your financial assistance in the form of a loan, Hutchins suggests. Put it in writing and agree on a repayment schedule. While the IRS requires you to charge interest on loans to family members, the minimum required rate is usually well below what traditional lenders charge. 2 If your financial support comes in the form of a large gift (a down payment, for instance, or help paying off a student loan), consider positioning
the gift as an early inheritance and adjusting your estate plan to avoid any potential sibling resentment.
Set limits on yourself and your kids
Before you commit to providing financial support, sit down with your advisor to assess your current income and expenses and discuss how you might lend a hand without losing momentum on progress toward your own goals.
When talking with your children, be candid about how much support you can offer and how long it can last. Consider limiting your financial contributions to help with essential expenses (car loan, yes; streaming services, maybe not so much) and only after they have personally covered as much as they can. You may want to give your adult child a deadline for moving out and explain that your life plans (retiring, relocating, etc.) cannot be put on hold indefinitely.
Above all, emphasizes Hutchins, “Never dip into money earmarked for your retirement, or you may end up being the one needing financial support.” Remind the kids they have 40 to 50 years of earning power ahead of them you do not. They will understand.
For more information, contact Merrill Financial Advisor Andrew Neal in the Greenwood Village, CO, office at 303.689.8043 or andrew.neal@ml.com.
1 Pew Research, “Parents, Young Adult Children and the Transition to Adulthood,” January 2024.
2 IRS.gov, May 2024.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Glendale, Colorado, will hold a Public Hearing at Glendale City Hall, 950 South Birch Street, Glendale, Colorado, in the Courtroom/ Council Chambers on the first floor, at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 concerning the following ordinance: CITY OF GLENDALE, COLORADO
ORDINANCE NO. 1 SERIES OF 2026
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GLENDALE, COLORADO, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE AND AMENDING THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, 2024 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL SWIMMING POOL AND SPA CODE, THE 2024 INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE, THE 2023 NATIONAL ELECTRIC CODE, THE 2022 NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION 13 STANDARD, THE 2022
NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION 13R STANDARD, THE 2023 NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION 25 STANDARD, THE 2022 NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION 72 STANDARD, THE COLORADO CONVEYANCE REGULATIONS 7 COLORADO CODE REGULATIONS 1101-8
THAT UTILIZE AND AMEND SECONDARY CODES OF 2019 AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS A17.1 STANDARD, 2017 AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS A18.1 STANDARD, AND 2015 AMERICAN SOCIETY OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERS A17.3 STANDARD
A copy of this ordinance is on file at the office of the City Clerk and may be inspected during regular business hours.
Dated the 7th day of May 2026
City of Glendale, Colorado Veronica Marvin, City Clerk
Published in The Villager
Published: May 14, 2026 Legal # 31364
SPECIAL DISTRICTS
NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED AMENDED 2025 BUDGET AND HEARING GREENWOOD ATHLETIC CLUB METROPOLITAN DISTRICT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a proposed amended budget will be submitted to the GREENWOOD ATHLETIC CLUB METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (the “District”) for the year of 2025. A copy of such proposed amended budget has been filed in the office of Club Greenwood, 5801 South Quebec Street, Greenwood Village, Colorado, where same is open for public inspection. Such proposed amended budget will be considered at a hearing at the meeting of the District to be held at 9:00 A.M., on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
The location and additional information regarding the meeting will be available on the meeting notice posted at Club Greenwood, 5801 South Quebec Street, Greenwood Village, Colorado at least 24-hours in advance of the meeting.
Any interested elector within the District may inspect the proposed amended budget and file or register any objections at any time prior to the final adoption of the amended 2025 budget.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE DISTRICT:
By: /s/ ICENOGLE | SEAVER | POGUE
A Professional Corporation
Published in The Villager
Published: May 14, 2026
Legal # 31365
Dear Readers,
How should annuities and tangible personal property be handled under your Revocable Living Trust?
ANNUITIES
The owner and the annuitant can be the same person or different people. If you are both the owner and the annuitant you only need to change the beneficiary of the annuity. If you are the owner but not the annuitant, you should consider naming your trust as the contingent owner. It is best to contact your agent for assistance in making any changes to your annuity.
With respect to beneficiary designation, annuities may be taxable or tax-deferred. It is important to know which type of annuity you have in order to determine how to handle the beneficiary designation.
If the annuity is taxable, you should consider making your trust the sole beneficiary of the annuity, just like a life
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
The Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority (ACPAA) is soliciting Statement of Qualifications and Experience from qualified airport engineers to perform engineering services for federally funded capital projects at Centennial Airport, 7565 S. Peoria St. Unit D9, Englewood, Colorado, 80112. Initial contract period is three years, with the possibility of one-year extensions at the discretion of the Authority, not exceeding five years total.
Proposed construction projects include but are not limited to: constructing high-speed taxiways, widening taxiway connectors, rehabilitation or reconstruction of runways, taxiways, and taxilanes, purchasing airport equipment, and constructing deicing improvements.
Selection will be based on factors including quality of previous airport related projects, reputation, background, degree of interest shown and experience with airports similar to Centennial Airport. ACPAA reserves the right to select the consultant deemed to be in the best interest of the Authority.
For a complete copy of the RFQ, contact Ms. Lauren Wiarda, Director of Planning and Development at 303-790-0598 or at lwiarda@ centennialairport.com. Submittal deadline is 4:00 p.m. MDT, June 8, 2026.
Published in The Villager
First Publication: May 14, 2026 Last Publication: May 21, 2026 Legal # 31366
insurance policy. However, if the annuity is tax-deferred, do not transfer ownership to your revocable living trust. Also do not designate your revocable living trust as beneficiary of the death benefits under these retirement plans or accounts unless you have specifically been advised to do so by your attorney or tax advisor. These competing tax alternatives need to be carefully considered.
TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY
Tangible personal property includes such things as jewelry, artwork, collectables, appliances, furniture, clothing, housewares, etc.
With certain few exceptions, tangible personal property in the joint possession or control of you and your spouse or partner in a civil union, at the time of death of either you or your spouse or partner in a civil union, is presumed by
law to be owned exclusively by the surviving spouse or partner, unless transfer to your trust or alternative ownership is evidenced by a certificate of title, bill of sale, or other writing.
Tangible personal property can be transferred to your trust. Registered or titled personal property must be re-registered or re-titled in your trust. Non-titled personal property must be transferred to your trust by bill of sale or assignment. The title or registration should then be: “The John Doe Trust, dated May 15, 2026”. You should first consult with your insurance agent to make certain that the transfer to your trust will not result in unintended consequences, which may cause increased premiums or change or loss in coverage.
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
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE is hereby given of a public hearing before the Board of Trustees of the Town of Foxfield at 6:30 P.M. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at South Metro Fire Protection District Station #42, 7320 South Parker Road, Foxfield, Colorado, 80016, for the purpose of considering the adoption by reference of the Wildfire Resiliency Code, 2025 edition, including all appendices thereto.
Electronic and hard copies of the above-referenced Code will be on file at the Town Clerk’s office, starting at least 15 days before the public hearing, and may be inspected during regular business hours. If enacted as an ordinance of this Town, this Code as amended will not be published in full, but in accordance with state law, copies will be kept on
NOTiCE to CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of LOTHAR GERHARD ESTENFELDER also known as LOTHAR G. ESTENFELDER, LOTHAR ESTENFELDER and LO ESTENFELDER, Deceased Case Number 2026PR030380
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Arapahoe, County, Colorado or on or before September 7, 2026, or the claims may be forever barred.
The original of this document is on file at the law office of Donald Glenn Peterson /s/. Donald Glenn Peterson Donald Glenn Peterson Attorney for Personal Representative 5675 DTC Blvd., Suite 250 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Telephone: 303-758-0999
Published in The Villager
First Publication: May 7, 2026 Last Publication: May 21, 2026 Legal # 31359
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
PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE OF MINOR Public Notice is given on March 18, 2026 that a Petition for a Change of Name of a Minor Child has been filed with the Arapahoe Court. The Petition requests that the name of Kurt Finnley Sorlie be changed to Kurt Finnley Wolcott-Sorlie. By Clerk of Court/Deputy Clerk
Published in The Villager First Publication: April 30, 2026
Last Publication: May 14, 2026 Legal # 31357
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.
As a courtesy, there is no charge for my initial consultation with clients. I have served seniors and their families for over 48 years regarding their medical and estate planning needs. A 30% REDUCTION ON ESTATE PLAN DOCUMENTS IS CURRENTLY BEING OFFERED! FOR A FREE TELEPHONE OR VIDEO CONSULTATION, PLEASE CALL: 5675 DTC Boulevard, Suite 250 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Telephone: (303) 758-0999 FAX: (303) 758-1091
E-mail: Donald@PetersonLaw.CO Website: www.donpetersonlawfirm.com
CITY OF CENTENNIAL OFFICE MOVIE NIGHTS
Applications open for the Neighborhood Engagement Grant, and residents can rescue movie night kits. Apply at Centennialco.gov/movies for use between May 22 and Sept. 4. A $250 refundable deposit is required.
MUSEUM OF OUTDOOR ARTS
MADDEN GALLERY “BEYOND THE WESTERN HORIZON”
MARCH 19-JULY 31. Tue.-Fri. 10 a.m.4 p.m. Sat. to be announced.
40TH ANNUAL GREATER ENGLEWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL BUSINESS AWARDS BANQUET
MAY 21, 5-8 p.m. Penn St Kitchen. Voting open! Vote by 4/30/26. Tickets or donate to the Silent Auction. Lindsey@ myenglewoodchamber.org
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 2026 GOLF TOURNAMENT
JUNE 15 at Meridian Golf Club, 9742 S. Meridian Blvd., Englewood. 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. Open to everyone. Registration closes June 4. info@bestchamber.com or call 303-795-0142.
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT YOUTH TRAILBLAZER SUMMER CAMP
JUNE 15-19. Helps middle school students develop an understanding of basic business principles & the professional world. Scan the QR code in The Villager March 12 issue, page 14.
CENTRAL CITY OPERA AMERICA 2026
The Festival runs JUNE 27-AUG. 2 in the 550-seat opera house in Central City. This is the 70th Anniversary of the Ballad of Baby Doe World Premiere. The season features three MainStage productions - Mozart’s the Marriage of Figaro, the Ballad of Baby Doe and Master Class - alongside the return of
CCO in concert and the debut of the St. James Chamber series. Tickets: Call 303-292-6700.
2ND ANNUAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM OF THE ROCKIES GOLF TOURNAMENT
MON., JULY 13. Info: Call 303-4880018
SECOND ANNUAL AMERICA’S MILITARY HEROES GOLF EVENT
MON., JULY 27, Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Course benefiting Semper Fl and America’s Fund. Be a golfer, non-golfer, sponsor a hole or District Challenge. Call 301-4042706 or militaryheroesgolf@gmail.com
WESTERN CONSERVATIVE SUMMIT
Join the Centennial Institute for the 2026 Western Conservative Summit, JULY 30-AUGUST 1, 2026, at Colorado Christian University, as we reflect, recommit, and rearticulate the intellectual foundations of conservatism for the next 250 years of American exceptionalism. The weekend kicks off Thursday evening with the William L. Armstrong Award Dinner, followed by two full days of incredible speakers and workshop sessions. Register now at WesternConservativeSummit.com.
CLUB NEWS OPTIMIST CLUB OF MONACO SOUTH
FRIDAYS from 7-8 a.m. for the pasts 49 years. American Legion Hall, Yale & I-25. Call Frank 303-759-9232 for a free breakfast. Have fun meeting new friends and an opportunity to give back to the community.
DENVER LIONS CLUB MEETINGS
Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 12 noon at the American Legion Hall, I-25 & Yale. Interested in joining? Call Bob, 720-3139741.
ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS
Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. At Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. Broadway,Englewood. Info: Gail 720-3777682.
WHAT’S NEW?
ARAPAHOE COUNTY HIRING
BIPARTISAN ELECTION JUDGES
For the June & Nov. elections. Flexicle schedules, variety of positions open, open to citizens from any county. Go to jobs.ArapahoeCo.gov or call 303-7954511
SIGN UP FOR JOB ALERTS
Arapahoe County is hiring. Visit jobs. arapahoeco.gov. This is a new site.
“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/
RENEW YOUR VEHICLE REGISTRATION
Renewal kiosks are fast, easy and issue you tags on the spot? Go to COMVExpress.com to find a location near you.
BUSINESS NEWS
OLIVER’S “A TOAST TO THE TASSEL!”
Host a graduation celebration on the full-private terrace. Accommodates 60 guest seated for dinner or up to 85 guests for a cocktail reception. RSVP: nicole@ oliveritalian.com
ASH & AGAVE RES
TAURANT NOW OPEN
Inspired by the shores of the Mexican Riviera-bringing costal Mexican flavor to the table where smoke, salt, and citrus lead the way. Fresh seafood and fire-kissed meats. Cherry Creek Shopping Center, Lower Level near Neiman Marcs. 720-4643819.
RODIZIO GRILL “THE BRAZILIAN STEAK HOUSE”
LOCATED IN THE DTC AT 125 & Dry Creek and Downtown Denver, 18th & Wynnkoop
FIRST AMERICAN STATE BANK Locally Owned and operated. 8390 E. Crescent Parkway, Suite 100, Greenwood Village.
MOVET - PRIMARY CARE VETERINARY SERVICES
In Home, In Clinic or Virtual. Locally woman owned business. 4912 S. Newport St., Denver. Call 720-507-7387 MovetCare.com
NEED AN ATTORNEY?
Call Donald Peterson for a free telephone or video consultation. 303-7580999. Email: Donald@PetersonLaw.Co Located at 5675 DTC Boulevard, Suite 250, Greenwood Village.
AISLYN DERMATOLOGY
Dr. Aislyn Nelson MD, PhD dermatologist is located in Lincoln Medical Center, 11960 Lioness Way, Ste. 225, Parker. 719-9920127. www.aislynderm.com “We Do It All.”
JOSHUA TREE EXPERTSCERTIFIED 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 303-5002017. 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
Lexus NX 350h delivers performance, efficiency and Colorado confidence
There are test vehicles that come and go. Then there are a few that stay with you. The Lexus NX 350h is one of those.
After a week behind the wheel, it is clear this may
be one of the best all-around vehicles on the market today, particularly in the $55,000 range.
Finished in a striking bright red, the NX makes an immediate impression. But what
matters most begins once you settle into the driver’s seat. The sport model features supportive, well-contoured bucket seats that hold you firmly in place without sacrificing comfort. It is the kind of cockpit that makes you want to take the long way home.
The turbocharged powertrain delivers responsive acceleration, whether merging onto Interstate 25 or climbing into the foothills. Power comes on smoothly and confidently, and paddle shifters add a welcome level of driver engagement.
What stands out is the balance. This perfor-
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. 303-761-7477.
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. 720-3157778 or visit ParksideVillageRetirement.com
mance-oriented vehicle still delivers impressive fuel economy — approaching 40 miles per gallon — without sacrificing road feel. The sport-tuned suspension grips the pavement with confidence, corners cleanly and feels planted at highway speeds.
That stability matters in Colorado. With all-wheel drive, the NX is prepared for late-season snowstorms along the Front Range. It feels just as comfortable in a spring squall as it does on a clear summer drive.
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 is fully integrated, offering a suite of driver-assist technologies that operate quietly in the
background while providing added confidence.
Inside, the cabin reflects Lexus’ refined, driver-focused design. Controls are intuitive, materials are upscale, and the layout balances technology with usability.
What stands out most is how complete the NX 350h feels. It does not ask you to compromise. You get performance, efficiency, comfort and all-weather capability in one package.
For Colorado drivers looking for a vehicle that can handle city streets and mountain roads with equal ease, this Lexus deserves a close look.
By H. Throttle
The Cripple Creek Donkeys Migrate to Town on Memorial Day
Cripple Creek, Colorado - The Two Mile High Club (TMHC), caretakers of the Cripple Creek Donkeys, announces the official Donkey Release on Memorial Day, May 25, 2026. The “World Famous Cripple Creek Donkeys” will leave their winter home behind for the “greener pastures” of city lawns and gardens in Cripple Creek. Most residents welcome these lovable city mascots back to their free-roaming ways until they return to winter pasture in October. Locals and visitors celebrate this occasion in honor of the original herd of donkeys released from their work in the gold mines in the 1900s to roam freely about the region, whose rich gold mining history lives on today.
The release ceremony begins at 1:00 p.m. at C Street and Thurlow Avenue in Cripple Creek. Before the Donkeys arrive the local American Legion Post 171 will make a very special presentation on the significance of Memorial Day and honoring those who have served. The event is free, and parking is available on side streets. Attendees are encouraged to bring sunscreen, water, camp chairs and picnic lunches if desired. The Elks Club will also be on hand to sell hamburgers and hot dogs. The City of Cripple Creek will provide some seating. Enjoy meeting “President Teddy Roosevelt,” who will mark the occasion with a bully welcome to the donkeys who officially kick off the “Donkey Summer of Fun” in the Gold Camp. Local legend ties President Teddy Roosevelt to the original donkey release in the early 1900’s, believing that he inspired the mine owners to free the donkeys from their burdensome work, where they often didn’t see the light of day. How they came to roam free in the city is up for debate and speculation but it’s only fitting that “President Roosevelt” should be on hand for the celebration. And leading the charge are members of the Two Mile High Club. “As a nonprofit volunteer organization, The Two Mile High Club relies on these celebratory fundraisers, grants, donations, and sponsorships to provide year-round care for the donkeys and has done so since 1931 with the original herd and throughout the past 95 years as other donkeys joined the herd. But it’s more than raising funds; it’s about giving back to the community that supports us and the donkeys year-round,” said Annie Valades, Two Mile High Club President.
the importance of feeding the donkeys only approved Timothy Hay Cubes. Before the campaign began, the critters enjoyed too many carrots, sugary fruits, and human food and their health suffered. The donkeys’ health has improved as visitors embraced the information. Approved Hay Cubes will be available at the
and vendors and live music all weekend featuring bands like the United States Air Force Academy Wild Blue Country and The Martini Shot along with returning favorites, Maddox Ross, Just Us, Mimic and more. On Sunday Dakota Blonde will make its first appearance at Donkey Derby Days. New this year, professional pack burro races on Sunday along with an associated poop drop contest https://poopdrop.com/PoopDrop/Index/2034
Finally, “Fall Fest” on October 3-4 rounds out a fantastic summer of Two Mile High Club celebrations in Cripple Creek. None of this happens without donations, sponsors, and volunteers. To learn more about the Cripple Creek Donkeys, please visit our website https://www.cripplecreekdonkeys.com And on Facebook @CCDonkeys and on Instagram: @ccdonkeysofficial and on TikTok@ ccdonkeysofficial
Donkey Release for a small donation. TMHC asks all residents to be Donkey Ambassadors this summer and to educate the public on the reason the donkeys must eat healthy or they’ll have to go back to pasture where the food is controlled.
TMHC began a “Healthy Herd” campaign several years ago to educate the public on
The next Donkey event in this new Summer of Donkey Fun, is the granddaddy of them all, the 95th Annual Donkey Derby Days, on June 26, 27 and 28. It’s a free fun filled family weekend of donkey races up Bennett Avenue, a kids zone, beer gardens, food trucks
TMHC, a 501 (c) (3), operates on donations from Colorado businesses, club memberships, individual and family sponsorships, and grants. Donkey Derby Days is its largest fundraiser of the year and helps to provide money for vet care, food, and shelter at approximately $3,000 per donkey annually. Club volunteers work tirelessly to care for this herd of donkeys 365 days a year, rain or shine, sleet or snow.
The next goal of the Club is to build a new barn for the herd. The current barn shows its age and needs replacing and upgrading. The new facility will feature a clean/vet room to perform necessary care and treatment for the donkeys onsite, stalls for individual donkey care, a large pen inside the barn for the whole herd to get out of the elements, space for club administrative requirements, and a lean-to off the new barn for a new group feeding area. The Club cares for several senior donkeys that require more care and attention, and a new barn is in order. For TMHC to provide the care the donkeys need, please consider partnering with us to build a new barn to give these important “Beasts of Burden” a well-deserved new home.
Thanks to the following TriSponsors:
SSR Mining - Champion Windows - The Butte Theater - Johnny Nolon’s and Colorado Grande - Predator 4WD - City of Cripple Creek - Creations Everlasting - Chamonix Hotel and Casino - Wagner Rents -Two Mile High Club - Renewal by Anderson - Pine Ridge
Seamless Gutters - Century Casino - The Golden Nugget - Triple Crown Casino - Colorado Grande - Cat Country - KKFM - Wind Star Studios - KRDO TV - El Pomar - Community Banks - Teller Wifi - On Brand Apparel