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PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • May 29, 2025

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The importance of weddings Today is my youngest daughter’s and husband’s wedding anniversary, which made me ponder why weddings and marriage are important. This is a time of year when many weddings take place. Unfortunately, many couples do not host weddings or even get married; instead, they choose to live together without the formal legal process.

Because weddings are so expensive, many opt to skip the event and invest the money that would have been spent on a wedding into a down payment on a house or to pay down student debt. There is a debate surrounding this trend of skipping weddings. My question is, why are weddings important? What I discovered is that a wedding serves several purposes. One purpose is celebrating marriage within the community, increasing its visibility and value. Students are not being taught about marriage or family formation.

I recently asked educators at a large conference how many highlight marriage and family as life goals for their students.

Not one hand was raised. No wonder marriage rates are trending downward.

Weddings and marriage have been replaced by sliding into relationships, situationships, casual sex, and cohabitation, which have become the social norm. According to researcher and author Kay Hymowitz, there are two Americas: those who marry and those who do not, depending on educational achievement and financial resources. Hymowitz outlines this cultural shift in her book, Marriage and Caste in America. A new book entitled The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind, by economist Melissa Kearney, explains how marriage is vital to financial and educational success. According to both scholarly books, marriage is a prosocial stabilizer and a pathway to upward mobility and human flourishing.

Marriage is important, and weddings are essential since one of the purposes of this celebration is to showcase the thoughtful, intentional, and public commitment of two individuals in the presence of family and friends. The most valuable purpose of a wedding is to provide a ceremony of spoken promises before God or state officials and witnesses.

The couple recites their vows to each other, asking the community of people in attendance to support and mentor them. After the vows were spoken to one another at my children’s weddings, the officiant asked the guests to stand and pledge with an “I do” as well. The attendees promised support, guidance, and mentorship and to be available to assist these couples in their commitment to one another because, after every wedding comes a marriage with all the ups and downs of life, adventures, and obstacles.

One of the ways we, as a nation, can continue this tra-

dition of weddings and celebrating marriages without the tremendous price tag is to ask organizations to host the wedding ceremony, allowing the couple to have as many guests as they desire. After the ceremony, they can host a celebratory punch and cake event in the reception area. In this way, the guests can witness this amazing life transition and offer support in the years ahead without going into debt. The more guests witness this life transition and the promise to care for one another, the more the couple feels supported and loved. After all, love, support, family, and community development are the true purposes of a wedding and a marriage. joneen@narme.org

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C NVERSATIONS ARAPAHOE COUNTY Tune in June 6 for the State of the County address.

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WEEK OF MAY 26

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • May 29, 2025

The Villager

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

So far, Trump has Old soldiers never die, not upheld his promise they just fade away to end the war between It seemed to me that Russia and Ukraine. InMemorial Day was stead, Putin has escalated special this year, with a his invasion of Ukraine new wave of patriotism with missiles, drones swelling across America, and bombs. I suspect he BY BOB SWEENEY led by President Donald is trying to expand his PUBLISHER Trump. Enlistments are military control over the up, with billions of dollars for the captured territory, which includes military if the “Big Beautiful Bill” seaports and fertile farmlands. passes the United States Senate.

I predict this war will end soon I’m not sure about the “Goldwith negotiations. Putin will keep en Dome,” because if anyone Crimea, as that is already a done launched a missile at the United deal; furthermore, the Russian inStates, they would be doomed to vading army will maintain control extinction. Trump, whether you over the captured territory, which like him or not, is leading the amounts to at least 19 percent of way forward with “Peace through Ukraine, and will promise to hold Strength,” following in the footelections. That will be a lie, and steps of President Ronald Reagan, the farmlands will revert to Ruswho told the Russian President sian control.

Mikal Gorbachev, “Tear down It seems Ukraine has no choice that wall.” It did unite West Gerbut to give up land to save lives many with East Germany. and property. Otherwise, more

soldiers and civilians would die, and Ukrainian cities would be reduced to rubble. Trump does not seem interested in involving the United States in another world war over a conflict that began with one former Soviet country invading another.

The Middle East could erupt as the Iranians are close to having enough enriched uranium for nuclear bombs, or they may have already purchased them from Russia or North Korea. Israel’s leadership and Trump have pledged to never allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon and will target the sites and oil facilities to hinder the Iranians’ dangerous mission to destroy Israel.

This is a dangerous time for America and the world. We honor Memorial Day to remember the millions of Americans who died fighting for our freedoms and those of our allies. In 1951, Gen.

Douglas MacArthur said, “Anyone who has ever had to examine the strategic lessons of the Far East knows that no war in Asia should ever be fought without the most thorough understanding of the limitations imposed by geography, politics, and the will of the Asian peoples.” He popularized the saying, “Old Soldiers never die, they just fade away.” That’s what this famous general, who defeated the Japanese, said upon his retirement after being fired by President Harry Truman.

I don’t see much value in looking backward. Whatever happened in the past will end up in the history books. Whether you agree with what Trump is doing or not, at least you know who to blame or praise. Our military seems to have been reinvigorated!

As an Army veteran, I’m in the praise category!

upon which our nation was forged.

Too philosophical? Consider that the Constitution was built after the Declaration. The Declaration of Independence set the stage by defining the Principle. The Constitution created Rule of Law so that the Principle in the Declaration could be carried out. The Rule of Law does one thing, it restricts the ability of the government to step on our individual freedom. It limits the government to well-defined but limited powers.

Finally, we come to the practical aspect of applying Principle to our government’s actions. Given the preceding discussion, in what altered universe is it granted a government entity to impose $40 Trillion (double that if we include unfunded commitments) in debt on every citizen and future generations? It is not granted, nor allowed and to impose this burden on citizens is illegal.

Understand that this national debt is paid by (taken from) each citizen who works for a living. The debt burden is just another tax on your right to ownership of property.

It is manifestly illegal.

Further, this debt can be easily stopped by restricting government spending.

National debt is caused by congressional spending in excess of tax revenue. This spending leads to depletion of private property, of our inalienable right to hold what we earn. As such it is unconstitutional, illegal and immoral.

Jay Davidson is founder and CEO of a commercial bank. He is a student of the Austrian School of Economics and a dedicated capitalist. He believes there is a direct connection between individual right and responsibility, our Constitution, capitalism, and the intent of our Creator.

Seriously: Black Hawk pecks out new chicken-coop rules

buffalo along I-70 in Genesse.

• Chickens can roam up to the property line during daylight hours, but they must be secured in their coop from dusk until dawn.

• While owners may raise chickens and take the fresh eggs from them, the regulations prohibit owners from slaughtering them on the property. By doing this, neighbors won’t be able to witness the meaning of the old saying, “it was running around like a chicken with its head cut off.”

• Owners must maintain sanitary conditions for their chickens and remove excrement (chicken poop) from “any pen, cage, coop or yards in which such chickens are kept preventing contamination, diseases, hazards and odors.” Those who fail to do so will be subject to citation and may face a fine, potentially damaging their reputations.

The council unanimously approved the new chicken regulations in under three minutes, faster than most chefs can whip up an omelet or make the wisecrack, “the yolks on you.”

For the record, none of the 15 casinos in Black Hawk are named after chickens, ducks, or other feathered creatures, although dozens of slot machines inside feature chickens and other barnyard animals.

However, some Black Hawk casi-

Applying reasoned principle to politics Big Beautiful Bill is 1,100 pages. Massive.

The arguments for and against are deafening.

And all miss the point.

“So here’s the thing.

Despite all the spending cuts, the Beautiful Bill still increases the federal deficit by $3.8 trillion over 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office.” - Lawrence Wilson, The Epoch Times Conclusions based on Principle, if that Principle is forged on the bedrock of eternal Truth, blow away petty arguments which fall away like chaff.

Prior to our nation’s inception, the masses were taught that the divine spark resides in a pharaoh, a pope, a monarch. In the world of politics and power, the people could approach the Creator only by going

BY DON IRELAND SENIOR REPORTER

(Editor’s note: This is one of those rare times when a “serious” news story needs to be “egged” on with a few laughs and puns.)

It’s not ill-eagle for Black Hawk residents to raise chickens in their yards. Currently, only one of the 61 homes in the city is believed to have a chicken coop, far fewer than prior decades - when chicken-raising was relatively common around the county.

Last week, the Black Hawk aldermen flocked together and approved a part of the city’s code that formally authorizes people to keep chickens as an “accessory use” in residential areas. Those who don’t follow the rules may be considered running a-fowl of the law.

It’s not uncommon for Black Hawk’s leaders to tackle large and pressing issues as part of their duties. None of which is chicken-feed on the bank account. During the past year, they’ve voted to spend over $8 million on the forthcoming Bobtail gold mine attraction or dole out $5 million to build the new Copper Kitchen Pizzeria.

They’ve also worked extensively to oppose iGaming – legalized online casino slot-style games.

Despite those bigger, more complicated matters, Black Hawk’s city aldermen haven’t forgotten they were elected to serve

through his representative. Or so powerful men thought.

The worlds of religion and philosophy understood that the divine resided in each soul, in each person and that our life-path was to reach this realization. Then our founders put the two concepts together and forge a nation based on the divinity that resides in each person.

Our nation is founded on a Principle that was stated in the Declaration of Independence: “All men are created equal, and are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights.”

The Founders recognized that divinity resides in every Man, not just a Monarch. This revelation gives rise to the concept of the sanctity of the individual. This is the Principle

their neighbors, including those who have an affinity for chickens.

Some critics might claim Black Hawk’s new law discriminates against men. The regulations prohibit anyone from housing a rooster (the male of the species) in a chicken coop.

Sorry, Foghorn Leghorn. That’s just the way it is in Black Hawk.

During the past two months, city leaders have banded together like birds of a feather concerning visiting bears. The leaders have warned residents of increased bear sightings and shared stories about how Yogi and company have stalked Black Hawk streets recently. At least one bear ransacked an outdoor refrigerator, prompting the council to change its laws to ban them (that is, the outdoor refrigerators, not the bears).

Last week’s code change was an attempt by city leaders to protect the local chickens from bears and other predators that might wander into Black Hawk with the expectation of a free chicken dinner. From now on, anyone who wants to raise chickens is required to abide by the “Black Hawk Code for Chickens,” which includes: • Any resident or their family member must pay a one-time $25 fee to have a chicken coop on their property. Some consider the $25 price to be merely “chicken feed,” compared to the

cost of a few dozen eggs at the supermarket these days.

• A chicken coop is restricted to a maximum of six chickens. It must include latches, hooks, barrier fencing, netting, or other types of secondary barriers to safeguard the chickens from external predators.

• Instead of being cooped up, each chicken should have some space to roam and be provided with 20 square feet of coop space to move around and join the daily cluck-fest. If the property owner desires to construct a permanent coop, they must secure a Certificate of Architectural Compatibility from the city.

• There are size rules as well.

To ensure that the birds are not confined, owners can build a chicken run that cannot exceed 60 square feet and must provide at least four square feet of space for each bird. The coop also cannot exceed six feet in height and must be located at least one foot from a property fence line and 10 feet from the residence or primary structure on a neighboring property.

• In addition, chicken coops are limited to rear or side yards – meaning no aviaries in the front yard. This rule prevents passing motorists from stopping to snap a selfie with a chicken, like some visitors try to take a selfie with a

Continued on page 7

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR Gerri Sweeney gerri@villagerpublishing.com PUBLISHER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR Susan Sweeney Lanam 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com LEGALS Becky Osterwald legal@villagerpublishing.com NEWS EDITOR Gerri Sweeney 303-773-8313 gerri@villagerpublishing.com GOVERNMENTAL REPORTER Freda Miklin fmiklin.villager@gmail.com 303-489-4900 REPORTER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com FASHION & LIFESTYLE Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com DESIGN/PRODUCTION MANAGER Tom McTighe production@villagerpublishing.com ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Susan Lanam — 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com Sharon Sweeney — 303-503-1388 cogambler@mac.com Gerri Sweeney — 720-313-9751 gerri@villagerpublishing.com Scottie Iverson swan@denverswan.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Gerri 303-773-8313 EDITORIAL COLUMNIST Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com The Villager is an award-winning, locally owned, independent newspaper. All letters to the editor must be signed. The contributor’s name, hometown and phone number must also accompany all letters to the editor for verification and we reserve the right to edit contributions for space. We attempt to verify all matters of fact but hold contributors liable for the content, accuracy and fairness of their contributions. All submissions become the property of The Villager and may be reused in any medium.

Reverend Martin Niemoller

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

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May 29, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

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PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • May 29, 2025

Miles of pasta – worth the drive Douglas County Republican Women treated to the Campana residenza in Ft. Collins for Italian feast Developer and former U.S. Senate candidate Gino Campana and his wife Michelle graciously opened their home and prepared a multi-course spread from family recipes.

Guests were welcomed with the Italian iconic aperitif Aperol Spritz as well as antipasto platters including delectable Casatiello (Italian Easter Bread).

Interactive pasta preparation was made ready for sauce and long-simmered meats. Salad was followed by a twist on Bananas Foster - Ghiradelli mini brown-

ie enhanced by fresh pineapple and spiced rum. And… finished with shots of grappa for the asking! Bellisimo!!!

Missing from the usual gathering were the couple’s daughter Alexandra and her husband Juan Caro, who is deputy assistant secretary for International and Space Affairs at NOAA under Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and now living in D.C. Gino, himself, was appointed by President Trump in his first administration to be chairperson of the Public Buildings Reform Board.

Antonette Smith, Jeannette NewVille, Jeff Smith, Stephanie Doss, T. Murray and Janet Gilliland stretch strands of fresh pasta created under the guidance of Gino and Michelle

FAR LEFT: Gino and Michelle Campana with former DCRW President Barbara Piper who made the arrangements LEFT: Chef Gino makes sure the pasta has boiled to perfection ABOVE: Planned venue - the outdoor pizza oven and view, had the weather been more cooperative Photos by Scottie Iverson

Fashion Group Denver has reunion at History Colorado Museum Archive Committee donates precious history, arranges tour followed by luncheon The Archive Committee and former Regional Directors gathered at History Colorado Museum in Denver to meet Tara Kaufman and have a tour of the fascinating archives where treasures of Fashion Group Denver will be preserved.

History Colorado Associate Curator of Clothing and Textile Arts Tara Kaufman led a behindthe- scenes tour of her department’s massive archives

Fashion Editor AND illustrator for The Denver Post Gretchen Weber, founded Fashion Group Denver in 1958

BELOW: Outstanding support nine former Regional Directors were in attendance: Carolyn Fineran, Cynthia Petrus, LeAn Nelson, Carol Engel Enright, Suzanne Brown, Kat Dudden, Kaci Head, Nathalia Faribault, Scottie Iverson Photos by Scottie Iverson

Before photography took over fashion advertising, sketches and illustrations ruled – these with notes in the margins by Gretchen Weber

May 29, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

Chicken-coop rules Continued from page 4

nos have names related to the animal kingdom. There are places like the Sasquatch Casino, “Bull” Durham Casino, Monarch Casino (which features many TV screens showcasing Monarch butterflies), and the Horseshoe Casino. Of course, a horseshoe isn’t an animal, but it’s typically associated with a horse. Please note we also didn’t list the Saratoga, although

it is affiliated with horse-racing tracks because making that claim could cause some readers to feel as though we – like any Black Hawk chickens – had laid an egg. We also didn’t mention the so-called sharks that swim around near the table games offered inside some of the casinos.

All of this chicken cackle leads to an important final question: “Why did the chicken cross Black Hawk Boulevard?”

The answer: “To get to the casino on the other side of the street.”

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May 29, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

fo 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 Greenwood Village City Council member. Dr. Jerry Miklin and I are the parents of five young adults, including two sets of twins, all of whom graduated from Cherry Creek High School and college.

I am a 9-time Colo. Press Assn. award winner. If you have any questions about local or state politics or government, or something you want to share, email me at fmiklin.villager@gmail.com.

As she gets ready to step down, Mayor Piko says “Centennial is Ready” Wings Over the Rockies at Centennial Airport was the setting for Centennial Mayor Stephanie Piko’s eighth and final State of the City speech.

It was delivered to a sellout crowd at a luncheon hosted

by The Rotary Club of Centennial “that brought together community leaders, residents, and partners to reflect on our shared accomplishments and look ahead with confidence and purpose.”

The theme of the day was, “Centennial’s Ready!

Prepare. Innovate. Succeed.”

Describing her city, Mayor Piko said, “We know the fundamentals haven’t changed.

People want to live in safe communities, with great amenities, great schools, great location and great weather, so I like to think that this provides the City with a great opportunity to enhance almost all of these to continue to attract new residents, new businesses and create a thriving community.” She applauded the city council and city staff for how they could always be counted on “to lean in and proactively seek to solve and anticipate problems, preparing us for anticipated headwinds and challenges that may impact the lives of our citizens or the vitality of our businesses.”

The mayor looked back on

some of the significant accomplishments of her eight years in office, focused on how those accomplishments have set up Centennial for the successful future that is set to unfold.

The city’s history provides a perspective on where it is going.

On September 12, 2000, by a margin of 77% to 23%, voters approved the formation of the new City of Centennial. At a youthful 25 years old, it is a modern city that operates under a selfdescribed “hybrid model of public and private services,” with its two most labor-intensive functions performed via contracts with separate entities, resulting in a lean city staff of approximately 100 people for a population of 106,883, as of 2023, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

In addition to getting its water, sewer, and fire protection services from special districts, as do most cities in

Colorado, Centennial’s law enforcement is provided by the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office and its public works services are provided

by Jacobs Engineering.

Some smaller departments that were previously handled by outside contractors, including land use and building inspections, have been brought into the city through the years. Other services, including Centennial’s 24/7 Call Center, municipal code compliance, and animal services, are still provided through outside contracts.

In addition to its hybrid approach to city services, Centennial is a home-rule city, one that is not bound by the constraints of the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR), as its voters opted to “de-Bruce” in 2006 and again in 2012, allowing the city to retain all taxes and other revenue it receives from all current and existing funding sources, without having to be concerned with taxpayer

Mayor Stepanie Piko

refunds in years of economic upswings.

Centennial is also a model of citizen participation, with its many boards and commissions for which its residents can volunteer, providing input to the city council in adopting policies. Those boards and commissions include the Budget Committee, Investment committee, Open Space Advisory Board, Audit Committee, Election Committee, Senior Commission, and even a Futures Committee “to consider what Centennial might face in the future so we may intentionally create policies that build the future our community desires,” in addition to a traditional Planning & Zoning Commission. Committee members apply and are appointed through the city clerk.

Some of the key accomplishments of her tenure the mayor cited were: • Neighborhood Grants Program, launched in 2021, that provided $131,500 for 261 neighborhood events in its first three years, with over 100 more planned for 2025.

• Community Improvement Grant Program, also launched in 2021, that has provided $290,000 to help 30 individual neighborhoods fund needed improvements, with another $100,000 allocated for this year. It is used for things like tree plantings and neighborhood entrances.

• Innovative solutions in housing: Three separate Live-Work developments already under construction that will allow small business owners to have their businesses and homes under the same roof.

• Vermillion Creek, a new master-planned community on 93 acres, integrating housing and mixeduse spaces.

• Midtown Centennial, an 800-acre area bound by South Yosemite Street, South Havana Street, East Arapahoe Road, and East County Line Road: The City “changed its land development code to pro-actively attract mixed-use development.”

From left to right: City Council members Tammy Maurer, Robyn Carnes, Christine Sweetland, Mike Sutherland, Richard Holt, Mayor Stephanie Piko, Marlo Alston, Amy Tharp, Don Sheehan

fo l l ow F R E DA Mayor Schlachter and his team talk about Littleton’s focus on the future On May 14, the Ashley Ridge Event Center at 8199 Southpark Court hosted the Littleton Business Chamber (LBC)sponsored 2025 State of the City of Littleton breakfast event, featuring Mayor Kyle Schlacter and key members of his staff.

LBC Executive Director Korri Lundock welcomed the full house of residents, state and local government officials, and community and business leaders.

Mayor Schlachter’s address was focused on the city’s future, as described in Horizon 2027, a strategic plan launched in 2024 that outlines what the City hopes to accomplish in the next few years. He explained that it serves “as a comprehensive roadmap for achieving long-term outcomes to ensure that Littleton is a community that is vibrant, sustainable, and resilient,” adding, “It is built on years of outreach in conversation with our community, with thousands of residents and leaders across the region.”

He shared that the process is ongoing, with city council listening to its residents and using what it learns to give input to city staff, set-

ting performance targets to ensure accountability.

City Manager Jim Becklenberg talked about Littleton’s emphasis on “high quality governance,” demonstrated by its unblemished history of clean audit opinions and excellent budget practices, recognized for many years by the Government Finance Officers Association.

Becklengberg cited the multiple uses the city has made of the additional sales tax dollars voters approved in 2021 for deferred maintenance of city streets, facilities, and technology, also noting the City’s attention to environmental stewardship “to help ensure that Littleton is sustainable for the future.”

The city manager also pointed to the importance of historic preservation of mid-century architecture in Littleton as part of highquality governance, as well as “ensuring Littleton is a great place to work.”

To that end, Littleton has “launched a leadership development program with faculty from the University of Denver” and “overhauled its performance evaluation system to focus more on employee goals

The event was standing room only.

Mayor Kyle Schlachter

and career development.”

Next, Rachel King, the City’s economic development director, described how Littleton has “worked hard to support businesses, drive new investment, and build a stronger local economy” by adopting a “comprehensive economic development strategy,” comprised of six strategic pillars: • Business vitality and adaptability • Workforce and talent attraction

• Fostering a livable economy • Enhancing historic character and cultural fabric • Supporting industry & investment in city infrastructure • Regional economy positioning To help accomplish those goals, Jamie Crout, a member of King’s team, shared that the City “awarded $150,000 in revitalization incentive grants to help 15 businesses to enhance their storefronts.”

Brian Garner, Littleton’s economic development manager, added, “We also introduced a new economic incentive policy designed to attract investment, create new jobs, bolster the City’s tax base, and revitalize key areas of the city” that led to the opening of the new Costco as part of a mixed-use development, coming to 700 W. Mineral Avenue in 2026.

The Denver Post reports that 50% of sales tax revenue collected by all retailers at that site, up to $29.5 million, will be rebated to sellers for ten years.

The City also provides rebates to its citizens through a “shop local rewards” program that gives

cash rewards to residents for supporting Littleton’s local businesses, Crout reported.

Garner shared that the City will conduct an “Arts and Culture economic impact study” this year “to better understand how this key sector drives our economy, and discover ways to support its growth.”

Police Chief Doug Stephens talked about the importance of the City’s coresponder program, funded in part by Littleton’s tax on recreational marijuana, that allows the Littleton Police Department (LPD) “to send a certified mental health clinician with LPD patrol officers to help assess people experiencing mental health crises and provide them with immediate access to resources.”

The mental health professionals are affiliated with All Health Network.

Stephens also noted that LPD has seven full-time school resource officers in “every high school and middle school in Littleton,” whose relationships “have directly resulted in coordinated intervention… to help kids who may be experiencing very challenging issues in their lives which could result in negative consequences.”

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • May 29, 2025

fo 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 Greenwood Village City Council member. Dr. Jerry Miklin and I are the parents of five young adults, including two sets of twins, all of whom graduated from Cherry Creek High School and college.

I am a 9-time Colo. Press Assn. award winner. If you have any questions about local or state politics or government, or something you want to share, email me at fmiklin.villager@gmail.com.

Greenwood Village sues State of Colorado over 2024 law designed to address the need for additional housing On May 19, the City of Greenwood Village, along with five other front range municipalities, filed a lawsuit in Denver District Court against Governor Polis and the State of Colorado, challenging the constitutionality of two laws passed in 2024 designed to increase the amount of residential housing in the state. The other cities that signed on to the suit are Arvada, Aurora, Glendale, Lafayette, and Westminster.

GV, which appears to be the lead plaintiff, is represented in the suit by outside counsel, Josh Marks and Christopher Seldin of the Boulder law firm, Berg Hill Greenleaf Ruscitti LLP. The other five plaintiffs are all represented by their regular city attorneys.

At the most fundamental level, GV and the other cities assert that laws and policies that comprise land use policy have always been and should remain the strict purview of cities, not the state, pursuant to the home rule provisions of the state Constitution and a long history of case law, for a host of reasons. One is that allowing cities to decide land use policies is the same as allowing their citizens to do so because these decisions always include public hearings,

which equates to due process for citizens.

There is also the thorny issue that citizens can question and even sue their elected local officials if they believe a land use issue is decided incorrectly. This law removes that important right in some circumstances, e.g., multi-family residential projects on less than five acres.

The cities’ suit points to case law that says zoning “is generally a local and municipal matter and “an area traditionally of local concern.” The position of the State seems to be that Colorado’s current circumstances are sufficiently dire that they require the State to step in to ensure that adequate housing gets built.

The State explains that by declaring, “Increasing housing density in transit-oriented communities is a matter of mixed statewide and local concern that requires statewide cooperation.”

The language of HB241313 Housing in Transit-Oriented Communities, lists a host of statistics that the State believes

demonstrates that the amount of available residential housing stock is far less than what is needed for the current and especially, the expected future Colorado population. It states, for example, that our population has doubled in the past 50 years (it is just under 6 million as of 2024) and is expected to increase by another 1.7 million in the next 25 years. Despite that, the State declares that, “Between 2010 and 2020, Colorado added 126,000 fewer housing units than in the prior decade…(and) the state demographer estimates that between approximately 65,000 to 90,000 housing units are needed to keep pace with Colorado’s current population growth.”

It also asserts that zoning practices that allow higher density than what currently exists in many cities will result in more available, affordable housing units.

The cities’ present data which they believe demonstrates that there is not a housing shortage currently, if all the presently ap-

proved housing gets built, noting that, in many cases, developers have chosen to delay exercising their approved rights to do so for their own reasons.

Moreover, both sides agree that the population that needs more housing is the lower-income population, and the cities present a multi-pronged argument that the state’s design to get more housing built, as outlined in HB24-1313, would not result in additional affordable housing—it is more likely their plan would push housing prices up higher, not helping those who need affordable housing.

The lawsuit also challenges HB24-1304 Minimum Parking Requirements on its constitutionality vis-à-vis the home rule provisions of the state constitution because it is also a land use matter. It also challenges the state’s assertion that many parking requirements that currently exist in municipal zoning codes are unnecessary because much of the parking available at multi-family residential developments goes unused and developments can be designed to promote walkability and transit use.

Notwithstanding the legal questions, the cities note that much of the

State’s argument that parking requirements aren’t necessary, assumes that people will utilize mass transit, but in metro Denver, available mass transit is severely underutilized because many believe that the RTD is inconvenient, unsafe, and unreliable, thus the assumption that anyone who can use it will do so is faulty. If people choose not to use mass transit, any benefits it may offer, including reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality, aren’t relevant.

The first formal step required to be taken by cities to which HB24-1313 is applicable, for the areas contained in them that are defined as transit-oriented communities, which includes Greenwood Village and the other five plaintiffs, is for them to prepare and submit a “preliminary transit-oriented community assessment report that includes…the community’s housing opportunity goal, the data and method…used to calculate (it)…and a map of existing zoning districts within the transit-oriented community that may qualify as transit centers.”

That report is due June 30, 2025.

The lawsuit asks the District Court to declare both 2024 laws unconstitutional.

May 29, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

Call it what you want, Son of Wedge belongs “A danger to players . . . not in keeping with the spirit of the game . . . virtually unstoppable.”

That’s what they were saying about the Flying Wedge not too long after it was introduced by Harvard against Yale in 1892.

Hailed as the most spectacular play in the history of football, it nevertheless was banned just two years later as the populace complained about the brutality of both that play and the sport in general.

Early football’s vicious nature persisted in the first decade of the 20th century, and in 1905, no fewer than 19 players were reported killed playing the game.

After that devastating toll, there were cries to abolish the game. But President Theodore Roosevelt instead insisted on rules changes to make football safer.

It took a century, but exactly 100 years later the National Football League, as we know it today, adopted a rule that made what is now known as the “Tush Push”—or in Philadelphia, where the Eagles perfected it, the “Brotherly Shove”—a legal play.

The TP or BS isn’t close to the Flying Wedge of the late 1800s. At best, it’s Son of Wedge.

Back then there was no such thing as motion before the snap, or offsides, either.

What made the Wedge so effective was that the offensive players began charging forward before the quarterback called for the ball.

But the same arguments were made by proponents of banning Son of Wedge when the NFL voted last week at the league’s spring meeting

in Eagan, Minnesota on a proposal by the Green Bay Packers to outlaw the play.

Think of that! The storied Green Bay Packers led the opposition to an innovative offensive play!

Had I been in that meeting, I would have rebutted those arguments as follows: 1. No serious injuries were cited as evidence of any unique danger to players as a result of Son of Wedge. (Participants wore little or no protective equipment in the early days; the NFL didn’t require helmets until 1943.)

2. Exactly what is the spirit of the game, if it’s not to knock the other guy on his butt and move the ball forward? (And, by the way, what fan hasn’t seen players from his or her team, at one time or other during any season you mention since 2006, push a teammate forward with the ball as the opposition tried to stop him?)

3. Virtually unstoppable?

In the last three seasons combined, the Eagles have failed to make a first down or to score a touchdown via Son of Wedge on about 15% of their tries.

Along with my Son of Wedge defense, I would have issued a challenge: • If it’s so hard to stop, design a version of the play yourself instead of trying to ban it.

• Find 11 tough guys of your own to gain one measly yard when a first down or touchdown is at stake.

• Hire a rugby coach, if that’s what it takes to teach your guys to replicate what the Eagles do? (NFL staffs al-

ready have a coach for every other imaginable need.)

Or, here’s an idea: Devise a defense that’ll stop the Eagles cold when they try it. Adapt.

Stopping Son of Wedge by changing the rules is like trying to deny Donald Trump the Presidency by attempting to send him to jail before the election or seeking to impeach him after he wins.

The undertaking was defeated for the 2025 season because only 22 of the league’s 32 teams favored it. Passage required two-thirds, or in this case, 24 votes.

Besides the Eagles, the 10 teams rejecting the ban on the Tush Push included eight that don’t play Philadelphia this season—Baltimore, Cleveland, Jacksonville, Miami, New England, New Orleans, Tennessee and the Jets—and one that could have to confront it, Detroit.

Among the 22 in favor of outlawing the play were all three of Philadelphia’s NFL East opponents—the New York Giants, Washington and Dallas—who all play the Eagles twice each season.

Another that supported sending Son of Wedge the way of its truly more dangerous forerunner was your Denver Broncos (who voluntarily did away with their striped, brown-and-mustard socks in a public burning in 1962).

They play the Eagles in Philly in Week 5, by the way.

A mere coincidence, no doubt.

________________

Denny Dressman’s 17th book, a collaboration with Kansas City artist Anthony High titled Black Baseball’s Heyday – Capturing An Era in Art and Words, will be published in late June. You can write to Denny at denny dressman@comcast.net.

PRE-ORDER NOW Denny Dressman's new book, BLACK BASEBALL'S HEYDAY, will be released this summer.

Use the link below to access McFarland Publishing's online catalog and pre-order your copy so that you receive it as soon as it's available, https://www.mcfarlandbooks.com/product/ Black-Baseballs-Heyday/ BLACK BASEBALL'S HEYDAY is a collaboration with internationally celebrated Kansas City artist Anthony High that captures the many dimensions of black baseball before Jackie Robinson broke the major league color barrier, and presents 32 original paintings by High in a unique "art museum tour" format.

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PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • May 29, 2025

employers can find Top job search resources resume, you as well.

LinkedIn (linkedin.com): for older job seekers If you don’t have a LinkeDear Savvy Senior, What websites or apps can you recommend to help older people find employment opportunities?

I’m 60 and have been out of work for nearly a year now and need some help.

Seeking Employment

Dear Seeking, To help you find employment, there are a number of job-search websites and apps specifically tailored to older workers seeking full-time, part-time or remote positions.

Here are 10 great options that are recommended by U.S. News & World Report for 2025, most of which are completely free to use.

AARP Job Board (jobs. aarp.org): Designed for workers 50 and older, AARP’s job board allows users to search by job title, keyword, company or location. The platform also offers search filters for full-time, part-time and remote work opportuni-

ties. Employers who are part of AARP’s Employer Pledge Program are committed to hiring older workers.

CareerOneStop (careeronestop. org): Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor, you can use this site to explore career opportunities, access training programs and job-search resources. You’ll also find help looking for a remote job, filling out a job application, getting started as a self-employed person and choosing a path that’s right for your stage in life.

Indeed (indeed.com): One of the largest job search engines in the world, Indeed will help you sift through millions of available positions.

You can include a variety of specifications to find a job, including whether you want to work remotely, your salary requirements, preferred location, experience level and education. If you upload your

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dIn account, create one to showcase your experience, knowledge and skills. You can gather news and insights related to your industry by looking at what others are posting and share your content as well.

The site allows you to conduct job searches and set alerts for new opportunities.

NEW Solutions (newsolutions.org): This site connects professionals aged 55 and older with part-time and full-time positions in government agencies. Users can browse openings by state, apply online and receive guidance through the hiring process.

Rent A Grandma (rentagrandma.com): If you want to work as a nanny, chef, domestic staff or pet care provider, this site is a great resource, but they do charge a $25 registration fee. It also offers opportunities for tutors and personal assistants.

After you sign up, clients can contact you about job opportunities.

Retired Brains (retiredbrains.com): This site can help you find remote, flexible, freelance and work-fromhome jobs. You’ll also be able to access resources to start a business. You can search by location, keyword or job title and access career advice on resume building and interview preparation.

RetirementJobs (retirementjobs.com): This site specializes in job opportunities for workers over 50, with retail, caregiving, transportation, sales and finance listings. It also features certified age-friendly employers and offers webinars on job searching, networking and overcoming age bias. You can learn how to utilize LinkedIn, improve your interview skills and understand how your job could impact Social Security benefits.

Seniors4Hire (seniors4hire.org): For job seekers aged 50 and older, at this site you can register for free, post your resume and search for jobs. Employers use the platform to find experienced workers for part-time, fulltime and remote positions.

Workforce50 (workforce50.com): At this site you can view jobs specifically posted by companies looking for older workers. You’ll also be able to access resources related to resume building, shifting from military to civilian life and finding a federal job.

Dear Readers,

Supported Decision-Making--Who Is Considered a Member of the Supportive Community?

With respect to Supported Decision-Making, a member of the supportive community is a person that the senior or an adult with disability has identified that they trust to assist with the supported decision-making process, who understands the individual’s desires and personal values, and who will communicate the decision to others if specifically requested to do so by the individual.

Members of the supportive community can include family members, friends, case managers, direct support professionals or others chosen by the individual.

Becoming a member of the supportive community does not create a fiduciary or contractual relationship with the individual. Members of the supportive community are not authorized to obtain or use personal, financial, or confidential information of the individual for the supportive community’s purpose or benefit, or for the purpose or benefit of a third-party.

How is Supported DecisionMaking Used?

Supported decision-making assists seniors and adults with disabilities to make life decisions, including decisions related to where and with whom the individual wants to live, the services, supports, and medical care the individual wants to receive, and where the individual wants to work, without restricting the self-determination of the individual.

The following is an example of how supported decision-making could be used: Susan is an older adult with cognitive impairment and physical disabilities that cause her speech to be difficult to understand. She has a team of supportive community members that provide communication and decision-making supports for her daily living needs. Her team includes a relative, a close friend, and a volunteer who works at her community disability advocacy organization.

Susan has fallen behind on her credit card payments and the

creditor has filed a lawsuit to collect. She was served with notice of the lawsuit, but because Susan had difficulty understanding the paperwork, she didn’t fully appreciate what might happen until she was able to work with her supported decision-making team. Her supportive community team members were familiar with her communication style, her abilities, and understood her speech well enough to answer the questions Susan had. They used simplified language to help her review and understand the documents to enable Susan to make decisions about appropriate next steps to address the overdue payments and avoid further litigation.

Supported decision-making helps individuals get the information they need to make informed decisions about their life choices and communicate those decisions to the appropriate person.

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

Many of my clients have asked what are the critical documents needed, particularly in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simply being married does not give you the legal right to gain access to your spouse’s medical records or make medical decisions on your spouse’s behalf, even in an emergency. To avoid this problem and to help others care for you and to achieve your overall estate planning goals, the following documents create an effective medical/ estate plan package: 1. Healthcare Power of Attorney; 2. General Financial Power of Attorney; 3. Advanced Directive for Medical/Surgical Treatment (“Living Will”); and 4. Will (or a Will with a Trust).

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

Selected information in this column has been taken with permission by Continuing Legal Education in Colorado, Inc., from the Colorado Senior Law Handbook, current Edition, (Chapter 35: Supported Decision Making, Sandra M. Sigler Esq.), which is a copyrighted publication and may be accessed and downloaded for free at: http://seniorlawhandbook. org/.

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

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May 29, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

New education requirements will help Colorado’s students be more financially literate Colorado legislators recently voted to pass HB251192: Financial Literacy Graduation Requirement.

When signed into law, Colorado will become the 28th state to mandate personal finance education. HB25-1192 requires students to successfully complete a course that incorporates financial literacy standards as a condition of high school graduation.

Requirements often create issues like curriculum alignment challenges, teacher training needs, and inadequate resources. While these challenges can be overwhelming for educators and schools, Junior Achievement-Rocky Mountain (JARocky Mountain) believes strongly in the value of financial education and is uniquely positioned to support educators with comprehensive solutions.

JA-Rocky Mountain is a leader in financial literacy programs, with rigorous, multi-year curriculum that

aligns with state educational standards that is shown by third-party evaluations to have a positive impact on students’ financial readiness.

“It’s essential for financial literacy courses to use evidence-based methods that effectively improve knowl-

edge, attitudes, and behaviors – going beyond basic online modules that may not reliably achieve these outcomes,” said Robin Wise, President and CEO of JARocky Mountain. “Programs like nationally recognized JA Finance Park are offered

at no cost to schools and have proven impact – 87% of students who participate feel they have more control over how their future will turn out.”

The passing of HB251192 comes at a time when there is unprecedented mo-

mentum and interest in early economic and financial education, reflecting a growing recognition of its importance in shaping future generations. Research by Junior Achievement (JA) and the firm Big Village shows that interest in financial literacy education begins early for many young people. A survey of 1,002 teens conducted in July 2024 found that 68% of teens between 13 and 17 would be “likely” to take a class on financial literacy topics. However, only 31% of teens surveyed said that they had access to these kinds of courses at school.

JA-Rocky Mountain also provides accredited teacher training in addition to its renowned student programs.

This is possible thanks to a 2024 merger of JA-Rocky Mountain and Economic Literacy Colorado (ELC).

Economic and financial literacy training for teachers is critical to the state’s efforts to increase the financial capabilities of Coloradans.

The U.S. Strategy for Financial Literacy states that financial education providers must know the material they are teaching and effectively present it to students.

6 early signs of hearing loss.

The signs of hearing loss may develop slowly over time and may be difficult to notice. Being aware of the signs can help you to be proactive in taking steps to improve your hearing.

Difficulty following conversations You have difficulty understanding conversations in noisy backgrounds.

Phone conversations are unclear You have trouble following phone conversations in quiet & noisy places.

People seem to be mumbling You frequently need to ask people to repeat themselves.

Difficulty locating sounds You have difficulty locating where sounds are coming from.

Signs of tinnitus You experience ringing or buzzing sounds in your ears (called tinnitus).

Turning up the TV too loud Your friends and family say you turn the television up too loud.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, why not book a free hearing test* with HearingLife?

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May 22, 2025 • THE VILLAGER |LEGALS PAGE 10

PAGE 14| THE VILLAGER • May 29, 2025

INTERESTINGPLACES INTERESTING PLACES Def Leppard & The Alamo This is not a word association game or an IQ question relating to the two items in the title above. So, how does an ‘80s glam rock group connect to a historic and famous military battle in Texas nearly 200 years ago?

For Ellen’s birthday last August, she wanted to see her favorite rock and roll band, the music of her youth. This was in the 1980s, a lost decade for me.

I was in medical school, doing my internship, residency, and fellowship.

My only concerts were when my attending surgeons yelled at me in the operating room for cutting a suture too long or too short—never just right.

I knew Def Leppard and some of their songs, but that was about it. Now, it was time to “Pour Some Sugar On It.” The concert venue and date closest to Ellen’s birthday led us to San Antonio.

We stayed along the famous River Walk, which alone makes a trip to San Antonio

of a “Photograph.”

We had floor seats, but the seats didn’t matter since everyone was standing.

Standing for an entire concert was fun as a teenager, but it’s not as enjoyable now; it feels more like “HysEllen and Brian ready to Pour Some teria.”

Sugar On It The opening act worthwhile. This city park was the Steve Miller Band. features a pathway beside Steve appeared and played a slow-moving river (more much younger than his 80 like a creek) that is lined years, belting out all of his with shops and restaurants. hits from decades ago. He Leppard was on their can still “Fly Like an EaStadium Tour and pergle.” formed at the Alamodome, Next was Journey, which, a massive 64,000-seat event despite having a new lead center that was once home singer, rocked and crooned to the San Antonio Spurs like in the past. Steve Perry, NBA team. The Alamodome is definitely deserving their original lead singer,

abruptly retired, going “Separate Ways” from Journey. Guitarist Neal Schon, who is now 71 years old, discovered a karaoke singer from Manila with a voice reminiscent of Perry’s. After a quick audition, Arnel Pineda joined the band in 2007 and has “Faithfully” filled Perry’s shoes.

Arnel’s history is an inspiring tale. His motto is, “Don’t stop believing.” He joined Journey and revived the struggling rock band with “Open Arms.”

Finally, it was Def Leppard’s moment. The glam rock band from Sheffield, England, has been producing hits since the early 1980s. They no longer sport long blonde hair, parading shirtless across the stage, and they certainly look more age-appropriate. Yet their music hasn’t diminished one bit, and without hesitation, they can still proclaim, “Let’s get rocked.”

Joe Elliott, leading the vocals, and Rick Allen, the extraordinary one-armed drummer, along with their three bandmates, delivered a loud and energetic show.

It was an exciting night that magically IN THE EYES OF BRIAN transport- Bio Retinal specialist, writer, Greenwood Village resident ed me email: joonbug@mac.com back to the 1980s like an “Animal.”

Rick Allen’s accident, the loss of his arm, and his return to drumming is yet another inspiring story in the “Rock of Ages.”

The next day, we visited the Alamo, where in 1836, a battle occurred between a small group of Texas defenders and a much larger Mexican army, lasting just two weeks. The Texans were defeated, but the Mexicans suffered significant losses. The Texan resolve inspired the rallying cry “Remember the Alamo,” ultimately leading to victory six weeks later and securing Texas independence. Such are the “Gods of War.” It was enjoyable to witness a significant piece of American history. However, the highlight of the trip was experiencing a “Wheel in the Sky” journey through rock and roll history. No “Foolin”!

Because the public has a right to know 1st - 2018, 2021, 2024 place - 2023 1stplace place - 2018, 2nd 2nd place - 2023

1st place - 2018

SPECIAL DISTRICTS CENTENNIAL AIRPORT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that during a regular meeting which begins at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2025, the Board of Commissioners of the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority will hold a Public Hearing at which all interested persons will be given the opportunity to be heard concerning an Application Under Centennial Airport’s Minimum Standards for Commercial Aeronautical Activities from the following two applicants: •Delux Public Charter, LLC d/b/a JSX Air to conduct Air Charter as described under Part 3 Section (5).

•Centennial Aero-Tech, LLC to conduct Specialized Commercial Aeronautical Activities, specifically Aircraft Maintenance as described under Part 3 Section (11).

The hearing will be conducted as a Virtual Public Meeting via GoTo Meeting, in order to view the board meeting or participate in the public hearing, visit the following link and follow the instructions to join the meeting: https:// centennialairport.com/board-of-commissioners.

Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority Published in The Villager Published: May 29, 2025 Legal # 11878 ___________________________ NOTICE OF VACANCY ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CITYSET METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the electors of the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2 of Arapahoe County, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 32-1-808, C.R.S., that a vacancy currently exists on the Board of Directors of the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2 (“District”). Any qualified, eligible elector of the District interested in filling such vacancy and serving on the Board of Directors should file a Letter of Interest with the Board of Directors of the District on or before the close of business on June 6, 2025 at the District Management office at 141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, Colorado.

Forms of Letters of Interest are available and can be obtained from the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2, c/o David Solin at Special District Management Services, Inc., 141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, CO 80228, (303) 987-0835.

CITYSET METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2

By: /s/ David Solin District Manager Published in The Villager Published: May 29, 2025 Legal # 11879 ___________________________ NOTICE OF CANCELLATION OF REGULAR ELECTION AND CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS

BY THE DESIGNATED ELECTION OFFICIAL HERITAGE GREENS METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 1-13.5-513(6) and 32-1-104(1), C.R.S., by the Heritage Greens Metropolitan District (the “District”) of Arapahoe County, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the regular election to be held on May 6, 2025, is hereby canceled and the following candidates are hereby declared elected: Shawn McDermott to a 4-year term (2025-2029) Andrew Wolper to a 4-year term (2025-2029) Ray Stahl to a 4-year term (2025-2029) Contact Person for the District:...................................Lisa Mayers, Esq. District Address:... 1700 Lincoln Street, Suite 2000, Denver, CO 80203 District Telephone Number: .............................................303-839-3800 HERITAGE GREENS METROPOLITAN DISTRICT By: .............................../s/Stephanie Net, Designated Election Official Published in The Villager Published: May 29, 2025 Legal # 11880 ___________________________ NOTICE AS TO AMENDMENT OF 2024 BUDGET RIVERWALK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to Sections 29-1-108 and 109, C.R.S., that the necessity may arise for the amendment of the 2024 budget of the Riverwalk Metropolitan District No. 2. Copies of the proposed 2024 amended budget are on file in the office of the District’s Accountant, Marchetti & Weaver, LLC, 245 Century Circle, Suite 103, Louisville, Colorado 80027, where same are available for public inspection. Such proposed 2024 amended budget will be considered at a regular meeting to be held Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., at the offices of Central

Street Capital Inc., 150 E. 10th Avenue, Denver, CO 80203 and via video/ teleconference. Any interested elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the 2024 amended budget, inspect the 2024 amended budget and file or register any objections thereto.

For video/teleconference login information, email cwill@specialdistrictlaw. com.

RIVERWALK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 /s/ Paula J. Williams McGeady Becher Cortese Williams P.C. Attorneys for the Districts Published in The Villager Published: May 29, 2025 Legal # 11881 ___________________________

ADOPTION District Court Arapahoe County, Colorado Court Address: 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, CO 80112 IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION OF: Roxann Rene Tademy FOR THE ADOPTION OF A CHILD: Ezekiel Barry Woods A hearing will be held July 1, 2025, at 1:00 p.m Case Number: 2025JA33 Division: 12 ORDER FOR PUBLICATION AND MAILING The Court, having considered the Motion and Affidavit of the Petitioner(s), is satisfied that the Petitioner(s) has/have used due diligence to obtain personal service on the Respondent(s) and Father Unknown/John Doe at any address available; and that such efforts have failed or efforts to obtain same would have been to no avail,

that the Respondent(s) cannot be found for personal service, and that the address of the Respondent(s) remain(s) unknown. Therefore, the Motion is granted. A hearing will be held July 1, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in Division 12.

The Court orders that the Petitioner(s) shall complete service by publication in a newspaper published in this county or as otherwise specified by the Court.

Such publication shall be made as follows: Notice of Hearing shall be served by publication for five consecutive weeks in a newspaper published in Arapahoe County.

Date: April 17, 2025 Judge H. Clay Hurst Published in The Villager First Publication: May 1, 2025 Last Publication: June 5, 2025 Legal # 11869 ___________________________

May 29, 2025 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15

ASPENDALE BERRY SWEET SOCIAL WED., MAY 28, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the new Aspendale Centennial Welcome Center, 13853 E. Briarwood Ave., Suite 400, Centennial. The elevated 60+ Active Living in Centennial is offering a yogurt parfait bar with fresh berries, tasty toppings, and refreshing beverages. RSVP: 303-9709514.

CITY OF CENTENNIAL TO HOST DISTRICT SUMMER SOCIALS DIST. 1, MAY 29 - Arapahoe Park, 7800 S. Adams St.; DIST. 2 Thursday, JUNE 5, Cherry Park - 6300 E. Weave Dr.; DIST 4, Thurs., JUNE 12 - Piney Creek Hollow Park - 6140 S. Tower Rd.; DIST 3, Wed., JUNE 18-Centennial Center Park - 13050 E. Peakview Ave. Free event, live music, food trucks, local vendors, hands-on kids activities & yard games from 6-8 p.m.

ARTISAN MARKET KICKS OFF SUMMER AT STREETS OF SOUTHGLENN FRIDAY, MAY 31, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Over 20 vendors, live music from Elevated Music Center and hands-on art activities for all ages. Meet the artists; Handcrafted goods, including jewelry, ceramics, soaps, textiles & home decor. 242 E. Commons Ave., Centennial.

MOBILE CONCERT SERIES FOR GV RESIDENTS EVERY THURSDAY IN JUNE, 6-8 p.m.

Bring a blanket & chairs for live music at a different GV park. Free to attend.

TIME CAPSULE OPENING IN GREENWOOD VILLAGE MON., JUNE 2, at the Council meeting at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers. The capsule was sealed May 31, 1997, with instructions to be opened in 2025 to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Incorporation of Greenwood Village.

PLAY DATE AT DOVE VALLEY JUNE 6, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Arapahoe Public Works event at Dove Valley Regional Park, 7900 S. Potomac St., Centennial. Info: arapahoe.gov/publicworks

SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT MONDAY, JUNE 9, 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. 8 a.m.

Shotgun at Meridian Golf Club, 9742 S. Meridian Blvd., Englewood. Free breakfast, BGQ lunch and an awards ceremony. Sign up at 303-795-0142 or info@bestchamber. com BOYS HOPE GIRLS HOPE HOSTS ANNUAL HOPE CHALLENGE GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BENEFIT FIRST GENERATION SCHOLARS MONDAY, JUNE 9. Shotgun start at 10 a.m.. Opens at 8 am. at Colorado Golf Club, 8000 Preservation Trail, Parker. Info: call 720-524-2061 or visit www.bhghcoloado. org STATE OF ARAPAHOE COUNTY ADDRESS TUESDAY, JUNE 10, 8-10 a.m. Streamed live on Arapahoe County Facebook page.

Scan QR code on page 3 of May 29 Villager.

FRONT RANGE PASSENGER RAIL ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS ONLINE OPEN HOUSE Live until Sunday, JUNE 15. Self-guided opportunity to learn about progress made to advance FRPK. Visit FRPK Website.

RECYCLE YOUR PAINT SAT., JUNE 28, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hosted

by P.E.O. Chapter 1J. St. France’s Cabrini Church, 6673 W. Chatfield Ave., Littleton.

(Corner of Chatfield Ave. & S.Pierce St.) Recycle for free. Cash donations appreciated and will fund scholarships for women. Taking Paints: Oil, acrylic, latex - 5 gal. cans or smaller. Unlimited amounts.

Original, labeled, non-leaking containers.

Info: Visit www.circular.eco/event/ Littleton628

Once Upon a Mattress, CCO in Concert: Opera’s Greatest hits. Call 303-292-6700 for dates and ticket sales.

TEEN ART SHOW DEADLINE JULY 1 Arapahoe Libraries is calling all artists, ages 12-18 to submit their original art for display at Smoky Hill Library. For details and entry form, visit arapahoelibraries.org/ teen-art GREENWOOD VILLAGE DAY SAT., JULY 26 at Village Green Park.

Celebrate 75 years of GV with carnival games, rides, food truck, live music and a fireworks show. For GV residents. Get tickets at the City of Greenwood Village.

119TH ARAPAHOE COUNTY FAIR JULY 24-27. Details arapahoecountyfair. com LITTLETON’S DEPOT ART GALLERY FIBER ARTISTS COMPETITION Show dates: SEPT 9 TO OCT 11.

Littleton’s Depot Art Gallery is posting a competition for all fiber artists in Colorado. Check on CaFE (Callforentry.org) for details and the prospectus. The Depot is located at 2069 West Powers, Littleton. For inquiries, contact fiberart@depotartgallery. org OPTIMIST CLUB OF MONACO SOUTH FRIDAYS from 7-8 a.m. for the pasts 49 years. American Legion Hall, Yale & I-25.

Call Frank 303-7s5s9-9232 for a free breakfast. Have fun meeting new friends and an opportunity to give back to the community.

U.S. SENIOR OPEN JUNE 25-29 at The Broadmoor. Ticket info: ussenioropen.com

EXPAND YOUR LOVE OF BRIDGE New games specifically for Novice and Intermediate players. Tech Center Bridge is located at 6161 S. Wabash Way, Greenwood Village. Call 303-915-1229.

1st & 3rd Thursdays 12:30-3:45 p.m. Cost is $8. Need a partner? Check the online list bredgewebs.com/techcenterbridge Also ask about Denver Metro Bridge at 5250 Leetsdale Dr., Denver. 303-757-4774.

CENTRAL CITY OPERA FESTIVAL JUNE 28-AUG. 3 Seville, The Knock,

DENVER LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 12 noon at

Colorado Advertising Statewide Classified Network To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado Newspapers for only $300, contact The Villager at 303-773-8313

Does your basement or crawl space need some attention? Call Thrasher Foundation Repair! A permanent solution for waterproofing, failing foundation, sinking concrete and nasty crawl spaces. FREE Inspection & Same Day Estimate. $250 off ANY project with code GET250.

Call 1-888-717-0104RNET

Call LeafGuard and say goodbye to gutter cleaning for good. No cleaning. No leaking. No water damage. No more ladder accidents.

Get LeafGuard today and be protected for life. FREE estimate.

Financing available. 20% off total purchase (Restrictions may apply) Call 1-844-264-8866

COLORADO PRESS NETWORK KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT? IF YOU HAD KNEE OF HIP To Place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado REPLACEMENT SURGERY and suffered and infection between 2020 and the Newspapers for $300 present time, you may be entitle to Contact your local compensation.

Newspaper or email Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson rtoledo@colopress.net 1-800-535-5727

the American Legion Hall, I-25 & Yale.

Interested in joining? Call Bob, 720-3139741.

announced that an Apprenticeship Degree is being offered. Info: anna.smith@ emilygriffith.edu or call 720-423-4852.

“WHAT’S NEW?” CENTRAL CITY OPERA IS THE RECIPIENT OF THE PRESTIGIOUS 2025-2026 EQUITY IN ARTS LEARNING FOR COLO YOUTH GRANT Administrated by “Think 360 Arts for Learning.” Innovative mental health awareness and suicide prevention initiative.

ANNOUNCEMENT: WESTERN CONSERVATIVE SUMMIT TO RETURN Returns July 2026 as they celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the 150th Anniversary of Colorado’s Statehood.

WHAT’S NEW? Honorable Stepahanie Piko is leading a landmark partnership to bring a National Women’s Soccer League training facility and temporary stadium to Centennial. The project will include eight professionalgrade fields and a 12,000 seat venue for the 2026-2027 seasons, in collaboration with the Cherry Creek School District.

WHAT’S NEW? FIDDLER’S GREEN NOISE COMPLAINT LINE Greenwood Village Police Dept. maintains a dedicated phone to respond to noise complaints related to Fiddler’s Green. To file a complaint, call 303-486-8275.

WHAT’S NEW? EMILY GRIFFITH TECHNICAL COLLEGE NEWS Randy Johnson - Executive Director - has

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

WHAT’S NEW? 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.

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

and side curtain 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid is a masterpiece bags, bags, leading to this perHonda Civic cars have been around for a long time, one reason that they were relatively inexpensive to purchase and are long-lasting, Today, Honda has upgraded the Civic to a much higher level. The brand is very affordable at a $32,950 price for a sedan that is somewhat incredible in performance and economy with both a 2.0 gas engine and a hybrid system averaging 48 MPG. The Civic has a bright “Boost Blue” paint that stands out in the parking lot and seems cheerful.

The powertrain has four mode controls of Eco, Normal, Sport and Individual. I drove the car in three but never tested the “Individual,”

a mode I’ve never seen before on any car. The normal mode operated very well, and the sport mode is fast. The Civic performance is sport’s car quality, and this car has Kentucky Derby class speed. Adding to the performance are front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link suspension with all-four-wheel disk brakes. A high-perfor-

mance car that can go fast and stop quickly.

Along with the performance and economy, the car has a fivestar safety rating that is boosted by a plethora of safety features.

The Civic has multiple airbags for front and passenger seating that include side, knee, and rear air

fect high safety score.

The Civic hybrid is assembled in Greensburg, Alabama with motor and transmission made in Japan. The new proposed tariffs may impact the imported parts.

Door locks open by sliding the handle when arriving at the car with key in the pocket, a nice feature. The dashboard is loaded with controls with a 9” touchtone screen and multi-view rear camera and cross-traffic monitor.

The driver seat has 8-way power seat controls, and the passengers has a 4-way control on heated leatherette

By H. Throttle

seats. A BOSE 12-speaker premium sound system is screen controlled along with a selection of radio channels with voice selection. This is a smart car with a wide assortment of features for comfort, safety, and performance.

Add to the many features a power moon roof and heated side door mirrors, with remote engine star and very good lane departure alert that flashes a warning on the digital screen when straying over a lane line.

This is a very fine competitively priced sedan with excellent safety features and very high performance. It is hard to believe the lower price for such an impressive car. While small in stature this car is a gigantic masterpiece by Honda.

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • May 29, 2025

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SUMMER READING

2025 2 JUNOE GH U R H T 1 JULY 3

AGES

0-18

Starting June 2, kids and teens (ages 0–18) can visit the library to choose a free book, while supplies last. Plus, enjoy fun family events all summer long!

To learn more, please visit arapahoelibraries.org/summer-reading