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VOLUME 44 • NUMBER 28 • JUNE 4, 2026

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PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • June 4, 2026

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SPRING CLEANING: SKINCARE EDITION Skincare is one of the most popular items to buy at the store or online.

There are so many products out there that it seems like we are always trying something new. Unfortunately, skincare can expire and there are certain expiration dates that really do matter. So it may be time to go through the bathroom cabinets and throw some things away.

Skincare products you should replace if they are past the expiration date:

• Sunscreen • Vitamin C • Face Moisturizer • Topical medications • Night creams (especially retinol) • Make-up Why expiration dates on skincare products matter Expiration dates on items often seem like a suggestion more than an absolute. As a dermatologist, I recommend my patients follow

expiration dates on products for several reasons: 1. The active ingredients may no longer work 2. Products used over and over, that sit on a counter, have a higher likelihood of becoming contaminated with bacteria/yeast.

3. As products are exposed to air/ water/environment they can change chemical structure and cause irritation on the skin.

June 4, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 3

many adults still feel like Adulting: A Strange and cause children wearing slightly more clothes. We may own Powerful Transformation expensive homes, lead meetings, or raise pected crises. A friend locks their keys in the car. Someone misses a flight. The Wi-Fi stops working. While everyone else panics, the adult begins troubleshooting.

They may not know the solution right away, but they know panic has never fixed a router. Yet adulting isn’t just about solving problems. It’s also about caring for others. It’s checking in on a friend after a difficult week. It’s bringing soup to someone who’s sick. It’s paying attention, noticing that everyone is tired, and suggesting a break. The adult in the room understands that responsibility includes kindness and action. It’s giving rather than taking, serving rather than being served.

There is humor in this be-

families, yet feel oddly unqualified when faced with assembling furniture or understanding health insurance forms. The real lesson of adulting is that being an adult doesn’t mean having all the answers. It means showing up anyway. It means taking responsibility when no one else does.

It means helping, organizing, fixing, comforting, and occasionally remembering to schedule the dreaded colonoscopy.

Adulting may be exhausting, confusing, and sometimes ridiculous. But it also shows that people can be counted on. In a world full of uncertainty, being the adult in the room is less about perfection and more about reliability, responsibility, and accountability. This transformation is powerful. Thank God for the adults in the room. joneen@ narme.org

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ARAPAHOE COUNTY

Making Good

Tune in Tuesday, June 16, from 8–10 a.m. for our annual State of the County address, streamed live on our Facebook page. We’ll dive into some exciting new initiatives, celebrate the work our teams and partners have done over the past year, and look ahead to what’s next.

Fermentation: Making Kombucha June 10, 6–8 p.m.

Learn how to make your own kombucha in this hands-on workshop. Participants will explore the basics of kombucha brewing, its health benefits, and safe fermentation practices.

TICKETS AVAILABLE 5.29.26

Register at bit.ly/CSU_Kombucha

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Two of my grandchildren (twins) turned 21 this week.

Soon after their birthday event, I saw a man in his mid-40s wearing a T-shirt that read “Adulting is Overrated.” These events made me reflect on the transformative journey to adulthood.

When I turned 21, I did not feel like an adult.

Even though I graduated from college, had my own apartment, and was paying my bills, I did not consider myself one.

A mysterious transformation known as adulting happens slowly over time. For me, it began when I graduated from Air Force Officer Training and was commissioned as a second lieutenant.

The responsibility I was given was both exciting and overwhelming. I knew I was up to the task. I was confident, resilient, and prepared for such a time as this. Now I felt it. I am an adult.

This revelation was not accompanied by fanfare, fireworks, or even a certificate of adulthood.

I started paying attention to my water intake, the amount of sleep I needed, and being consistent about leaving on time, so I was not late for work. I got annoyed by the silliness of some of my peers who did not take responsibility and kept acting like overgrown eighth graders.

As children, we assume adults possess secret knowledge. They seem confident. They pay bills.

They know how taxes work.

They probably understand why printers refuse to cooperate. Then we grow up and discover the shocking truth: most adults are simply making educated guesses while hoping nobody notices.

Adulting is not a destination; it is a series of increasingly bizarre responsibilities. One day, you are excited about staying up all night. Next, you are excited about finding a sale on paper towels. You begin to understand why your parents seemed so responsible, saying no to things you thought were so fun and they thought were so risky.

Another watershed moment in my journey toward adulthood was getting married. And… the icing on the cake of adulthood was having babies. Having four babies in six years brought joy and chaos. I discovered, through many sleepless nights, that the clearest sign of adulting is being responsible in moments of chaos.

Consider a family gathering when a smoke detector starts chirping. Everyone complains about the noise, but one brave soul finds a ladder, changes the battery, and restores peace.

Adulting isn’t glamorous, but neither is listening to a smoke detector beep every 45 seconds.

Sometimes being the adult in the room means handling unex-

DON’T MISS THE SOUNDS OF SPRING WITH

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

WEEK OF JUNE 1

Opinion

PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • June 4, 2026

The Villager Office: 22095 E. Chestnut Place, Aurora 80016 • (303) 773-8313 A legal newspaper of general circulation in Arapahoe

Freedom’s Documents Land are the original engraving of the Declaration in Colorado

are all a nation bound together by shared ideof Independence and als.”

As America approaches its a rare draft of the At a time when po250th birthday and Colorado United States Constilitical arguments domprepares to celebrate 150 years tution. These are not inate television, social of statehood, a remarkable reproductions found in BY BOB SWEENEY media and even family piece of history has quietly arhistory books. They are PUBLISHER dinner tables, there may rived in Denver. authentic connections to be no better moment Many of us still remember the men who risked everything to revisit the principles that the excitement of the 1976 to establish a nation founded on united America at its birth. The Bicentennial Freedom Train liberty, representative governDeclaration of Independence, as it traveled across the nation ment and individual freedom. the Constitution and the other carrying historic treasures that Tickets to the exhibition are founding documents are more helped Americans reconnect free, making this a rare oppor- than historic artifacts. They are with their heritage. Nearly 50 tunity for families, students the blueprint of a free people. years later, a new chapter is be- and history enthusiasts to exToo often we debate what ing written. perience the foundations of our America should become withThe Freedom Plane National republic firsthand. The exhibit out taking time to study what Tour has landed in Colorado. is open daily from 10 a.m. to America was intended to be.

For the first time, a collec5 p.m. at the History Colorado We celebrate freedom without tion of some of America’s most Center, 1200 Broadway in fully understanding the sacritreasured historical documents Denver. fices required to preserve it. We has traveled outside WashingDawn DiPrince, president argue about our future while ton, D.C., bringing our nation’s and chief executive officer of forgetting the vision that guided founding story directly to the History Colorado and Coloraour beginning. people. The exhibit opened at do’s state historic preservation Coloradans should flock to the History Colorado Center officer, perhaps said it best: this exhibit.

“These documents embody Parents should bring their and runs through June 14. children. Teachers should enAmong the featured artifacts the revolutionary idea that we

courage their students to attend.

Citizens of every political persuasion should spend a few moments standing before these documents and reflecting on the extraordinary experiment in self-government they represent.

The United States has endured wars, economic crises, political turmoil and profound social change during its first 250 years. Through it all, the principles contained in these documents have remained the foundation of our democracy.

As we prepare to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial and Colorado’s sesquicentennial, this exhibit offers a timely reminder that freedom is not automatically passed from one generation to the next. It must be understood, appreciated and protected.

The Freedom Plane has landed in Colorado carrying the documents that shaped our nation.

Now it is our turn to come aboard.

County, Colorado. (USPS 431-010) Published weekly by The Villager Publishing Co., Inc. 22095 E. Chestnut Place, Aurora 80016. Available for home or office delivery by U.S. Mail for $78 per year. Single copies available for $2 per issue.

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

BY DANNY TOMLINSON

On the Sunday of each Memorial Day weekend the Masonic Family gathers at Section S of Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver to place Flags for Fallen Vets on the nearly 20,000 graves of the men and women who sacrificed so much in defense of the freedoms we enjoy today. This is a deeply emotional and meaningful ceremony. The flag is placed 12” out from the center of the grave marker. The person placing the flag then stands back, renders a hand salute and offers a “Thank you and bless you, sir or ma’am” to the veteran, speaking the veteran’s name so that it may never be forgotten.

The person placing the flags then steps to the next grave and repeats the process.

We are so blessed as Masons to share a long, proud and sacred history with our country’s military. Masons have always

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 Thomas McTighe production@villagerpublishing.com ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Susan Lanam — 720-270-2018

been leading from the front in defending our country and the freedoms we enjoy. Most Worshipful Brother General George Washington and so many of our nation’s founding fathers were Masons, and were willing to put their lives and fortunes on the line in order to escape tyrannical rule and establish the greatest country in the history of the world. Our Declaration

susan@villagerpublishing.com

of Independence and Constitution are based on Masonic principles of faith, hope, charity, love of country and respect for all.

On behalf of all those resting at Fort Logan please accept our heartfelt thanks for your participation in this ceremony.

We are truly blessed to be in the company of great men and women.

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

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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!”

2026 Member

QUOTE of the WEEK Loveofdoesn’t QUOTE the WEEK make the world go ‘round. Love is what makes the ride worthwhile.

– Franklin P. Jones

TWO SCOOPS

June 4, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5

A TRUE FOODIE

Restaurant Reviews and Recipes with Food Columnist Jessica

jessbcarrington@gmail.com

READY FOR THE OVEN

Y’ALL FOLLOW ALONG FOR THIS DELECTABLE JOURNEY

Fresh blueberry pie in the summertime

• 1 quart or so of fresh blueberries washed and dried • 3.5 tbsp of corn, or arrowroot starch • Nearly 1 cup sugar • Dash of cinnamon • Dash of nutmeg • 1 tsp lemon juice • 5-6 tbsp of butter • 2 Disks of refrigerated pie dough (I like DuFour) • 1 egg • Turbinado sugar Set oven to 375.

To the dried berries add cornstarch, sugar,

Its hard to beat a fresh blueberry pie recipe in the summertime. I made one over Memorial Day weekend.

Between my husband and I, the pie was gone in less than 48 hours. This is typical of us, ha!

Here’s my easy, yummy, go to recipe ...

cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir gently.

Place berry mixture in the bottom crust, and sprinkle lemon juice over it. Next spread pieces of butter evenly over the berry filling.

Lay the 2nd pie crust disk over the top and create a few slits with a knife. Scramble an egg, and brush a portion of the egg atop the crust.

Sprinkle all over with Turbinado sugar.

Depending on pre-made pie crust brand, bake 45 min to an hour. Check crust after 30 min. If its getting golden but the filling isn’t quite congealed, tent the pie with aluminum foil to keep it from getting too brown.

Serve with vanilla ice cream of course!

READY TO ENJOY!

PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • June 4, 2026

Spirit Colorado returns to RiNo with culinary talent, craft beverages, and community impact Volunteers of America Colorado’s summer festival blends food, music, art, and philanthropy into one of Denver’s signature seasonal events

BY FAUSTINE CURRY

www.spiritcolorado.org

Denver’s summer event season will welcome the return of Spirit Colorado on Saturday, June 20, 2026, as Volunteers of America Colorado (VOA Colorado) transforms Denver’s RiNo district into a celebration of food, craft beverages, live entertainment, and community connection.

Running from 2 to 6 p.m., the open-air festival brings together many of Colorado’s most recognized chefs, wineries, distilleries, breweries, musicians, and artists for an afternoon showcasing the creativity and culture that define the state. Beyond the culinary and entertainment experience, the event also supports VOA Colorado’s mission to serve individuals and families facing homelessness, hunger, and hardship across Colorado.

Guests attending Spirit Colorado can expect tast-

ings from award-winning chefs alongside wine, beer, and spirit samplings from Colorado producers. Local bands will provide live music throughout the afternoon while artists create live graffiti murals in real time, adding an immersive visual element to the festival atmosphere.

Spirit Colorado was created to celebrate the people, flavors, and artistic energy that make Colorado unique while also generating meaningful support for the community.

All proceeds from the event directly support VOA Colorado programs focused on housing, nutrition services, and essential support resources for individuals and families across the state.

Last year alone, VOA Colo-

rado served more than 100,000 individuals through its broad network of programs and services. Signature fundraising events like Spirit Colorado help expand access to those resources while introducing new audiences to the organization’s mission-driven work.

The festival continues to grow as one of Denver’s anticipated summer gatherings, drawing attendees interested in Colorado’s culinary scene, local culture, and charitable engagement. Organizers say the combination of outdoor entertainment, elevated food and beverage experiences, and social impact creates an experience that feels distinctly Colorado.

General admission tickets are currently available for $45, with VIP tickets available for $75. Tickets and additional event details are available at www.spirit colorado.org.

Faustine Curry is Chief Advancement Officer of Volunteers of America Colorado, a nonprofit organization serving more than 100,000 individuals annually through programs focused on housing, hunger relief, and essential support services. Learn more at www. voacolorado.org.

June 4, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7

money sense

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.

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

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”).

MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC, and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

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

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Deposits

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

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

© 2025 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP7981759 | WP-08-25-0348 | 472503PM-0624 | 09/2025

PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • June 4, 2026

June 4, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9

fo l l ow F R E DA

BY FREDA MIKLIN SENIOR REPORTER

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

Composting makes the planet healthier, naturally “Composting is the easiest and most impactful thing that each of us can do, as somebody who cares about the planet, who cares about the future, who likes trees, who likes animals. They all, in one way or another, are dependent on composting, the process of recycling organic material, something the planet has done on its own for a very, very long time,” according to Noah Kaplan, Director of Sustainability for Compost Colorado.

On May 12, Greenwood Village City Council Member Bob Doyle and his wife Joni hosted an informational meeting at their home for friends and neighbors interested in learning more about composting. A retired environmental engineer and landscape artist, Doyle has been a strong proponent of the value of composting for years. Kaplan was the speaker.

Among the 25 people who came to listen to Noah was Julia Lace, a rising sophomore at Kent Denver School.

We wrote about Julia four years ago, when she was a fifth grader at Greenwood Elementary, and got 50 people in her neighborhood to sign up for a composting service after she learned about what

it meant to the earth and the environment. Julia is still as passionate about composting today as she was then.

Kaplan explained that “Composting is collecting organics—things that are or were once alive. Fruits and vegetables, animals or animal parts, paper products. These plants and animals decompose and become part of the soil that supports grass, trees, and the food we grow. I think of my job as making earth.

We make earth from living things because that is what nature requires. Ultimately, we rely on the six-inch layer of topsoil and the rain that grows and produces all the food on earth. That process looks like this: you mix food scraps, animal products, paper products, with some carbon—leaves and sticks—you mix that all up with the right amount of moisture and oxygen, and something magical occurs – rich organic soil.”

He continued, “It’s how everything has been recycled, since the beginning of time.

Until we humans came around and started to put things we no longer wanted, into a landfill. That turned what was a circle of nature into a line, breaking the cycle.”

Compostable food products

More than half the contents in today’s landfills are organic material, and that material, deprived of oxygen, rots, and results in methane gas, a larger contributor to the earth’s greenhouse gases than all the emissions from airline fuel. Besides reducing methane gas in the atmosphere, composting also traps carbon and helps the earth retain crucial moisture.

Compost Colorado recently merged with two other local companies, Wompost and 5280 Waste Solutions. Together, they provide the only compostable waste collection service available today in Greenwood Village. They

also serve most of the Denver Metro Area, describing their mission as “to provide the opportunity to individuals, communities, businesses, cities, churches, schools, any number of organizations to easily divert their organic waste from landfills and get back the benefits of compost,” adding, “Our members get compost dividends every spring, after contributing their organics. You can make your own compost or give us your organic materials, and we will make it for you.

Pick-up includes both kitchen organics and yard waste of varying amounts, depending on your need, and can be weekly or bi-weekly. If you’re out of town, you can get a credit by responding “skip” to a text message alert from Compost Colorado sent as a reminder the day before collection.”

Kaplan came to this field after teaching at Denver’s East High School. As the coach of the Speech and Debate team, he said, “I spent a lot of time finding out what young people were thinking about. They spoke a lot about the environment. They wanted to be a part of protecting the planet. Eventually, it always came down to the same question—kids wanted to know, ‘What are the adults doing about it?’”

He named two publicly available movies that people can watch to learn more about composting: Carbon Cowboys and Kiss the Ground.

At the close of the meeting, Doyle explained that his family collects organics in a small container in their kitchen, then dumps that into a larger sealable container in the garage that he puts out every other week for collection. He shared that, contrary to some people’s fears, in the five years his family has used composting service, it has not produced bad smells or attracted bugs or rodents, adding, “I still compost some yard waste myself, but I have found this service to be rewarding and easy to do.”

New law allows nonprofits to build residential housing on owned property in cities using only an administrative process As one way to increase available housing across the state, Governor Polis signed HB26-1001 Housing Development on Qualifying Properties into law, midway through the 2026 legislative session.

The new law, effective January 1, 2028, allows residential development to be constructed on real property of five acres or less, that is within a municipality or a census designated place with a population of 5,000 or more within a county, no more than three miles from a municipality, unless it is exempt, subject to an administrative process, as long as the use is allowed conditionally or by right within the zoning district in which the qualifying property is located. Qualifying property is property that is owned by: • A nonprofit organization

with a demonstrated history of providing affordable housing; • A nonprofit organization that provides public transit; • A nonprofit organization that has entered into an agreement with another nonprofit organization with a demonstrated history of providing affordable housing, provided that the agreement requires the nonprofit organization with a demonstrated history of providing affordable housing to develop a residential development on the property; • A school district; • A state college or university; • A housing authority; or • A local or regional transit district or a regional transportation authority serving one or more counties.

Jurisdictions where qualified property is located must allow residential development there to be used for childcare or the provision of recreational, social, or educational services provided by community organizations for use by the residents of the residential development and the surrounding community.

A housing unit in a residential development constructed on qualifying property that meets certain affordable housing criteria is equivalent to 1.1 newly constructed affordable housing units for purposes of the statewide affordable housing fund created pursuant to Proposition 123, passed by the voters in 2022.

That fund directs approximately $300 million annually to the State Affordable Housing Fund, which is used

to finance housing development and homelessness prevention through the Affordable Housing Financing Fund, managed by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, to support land banking, equity investments, debt financing, and modular manufacturing; and the Affordable Housing Support Fund, administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs to fund affordable homeownership, homelessness prevention, and local planning grants.

In addition to requiring residential development described in this law to be approved by an administrative process, cities are specifically prohibited from withholding approval of residential development on qualifying property on the basis of height if the tallest

structure in the residential development is no more than three stories or if the tallest structure in the residential development complies with the height-related standards for the zone district in which the residential development will be built.

Cities are also prohibited from applying standards to residential development on a qualifying property that are more restrictive than the standards applied to similar housing within the same city for setbacks, open space, landscaping, screening, or parking requirements.

The four prime sponsors of the bill included Denver State Senator Julie Gonzales, who is running in the Democratic primary for the nomination for United States Senator from Colorado, against incumbent U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper.

fo l l ow F R E DA N E WS B R I E F S

C

raig Steiner is the newly elected chair of the Colorado Republican Party. The software engineer and former Douglas County GOP chair told his fellow party members, “Colorado Republicans will win when we love defeating Democrats more than we hate each other, and I think we can do that.”

D

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enver Public Schools students are set up for terrific college opportunities. They get automatic admission to CU Denver with a 3.0 GPA in their junior or senior year; CSU Pueblo with a 2.3 GPA; and Metro State University with a 2.0 GPA. CU Denver will do the same for graduates of Aurora and Jeffco Public Schools. There is even an offer of guaranteed admission to the highly selective Colorado School of Mines for Denver School of Science and Technology and Jeffco students with a GPA of 3.8 and a STEM endorsement on their high school diploma.

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reenwood Village has targeted Friday, June 19 as the reopening date for the water feature at Westlands Park. The park is popular with children across the metro area. The splash pad was first installed 26 years ago and has proven to be too

difficult to repair. GV was able to get about half the $1.5 million required to get it redesigned and rebuilt, to hopefully last another 26 years, from Arapahoe County Open Spaces share back funds.

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he Village at Landmark, Century Communities’ 90-home development being built in Greenwood Village, near the Orchard Light Rail Station, held its official groundbreaking ceremony on June 4.

They hope to have models ready and start taking deposits by spring 2027.

The homes will range from 3,500 to 4,500 square feet and have four to six bedrooms. All will be built with rooftop decks, basements and elevators, with prices expected to start at $1,750,000.

sion, between 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

The Director District D seat was held

by Terry Bates, after he was elected in November 2025, until he resigned April 24, 2026, due to having made what the district described as “racialized remarks.”

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he Cherry Creek School District Audit Committee is recommending that the school board sign a contract with Plante Moran to conduct the district’s Internal Controls Audit. The board is expected to vote on that recommendation at its regular meeting on June 8.

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Gov. Polis signed SB26-150 into law on May 26, making the revamp of the RTD Board of Directors official.

Beginning in 2028, the board, currently comprised of 15 elected members from 15 districts, will be reduced to a total of nine board members, of which five will be elected from five districts and four will be appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state senate.

C

all Your Mother D.C.-based deli chain has announced it plans to open in the Happy Canyon Shopping Center at 5074 E. Hampden in the space formerly occupied by Starbucks. They specialize in bagels, sandwiches, and bakery items.

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he Cherry Creek Schools Board of Education will conduct public interviews with all qualified candidates for the Director District D seat at its June 3 study ses-

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ucci has opened a redesigned boutique that is over 5,500 square feet in the upper level of the Cherry Creek Mall.

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A

lso on May 26, Gov. Polis signed SB26-172, which narrows the Front Range Passenger Rail District’s boundaries to include only cities along Interstate 25, from Trinidad on the south to Fort Collins on the north, with Denver and other cities in-between. The service is expected to begin in January 2029, with a projected cost of $332 million.

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ow that the general assembly has completed its 2026 term, lots of elected officials and organizations are holding legislative recap sessions to talk about what was accomplished. South Metro Denver Chamber will hold theirs at Vectra Bank Belleview Station on June 11 from 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm. Common Sense Institute is holding theirs June 9 from 7:30 am – 9:00 am at the Dome at AMG Bank in Greenwood Village.

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.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced $44.3 million in new Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities (EC-SDC) grant funding to address PFAs and emerging contaminants in Colorado communities.

11-year-old Luca Pole wins first place in Colorado Chinese bridge competition Luca’s parents, Larry and Traci, enrolled him in the International School of Denver as a four-year-old, where, Traci told us, “He began his Mandarin immersion journey.”

They chose that path for their son because, she said, “We knew it would be important for him to have an appreciation of other cultures, and learning a character-based language like Chinese has significant cognitive and brain development impacts, all great things for a young child.”

Luca’s dad is a Financial Systems Developer for a major investment bank and financial services company. His mom runs a nonprofit focused on nutrition/food security and its relationship to mental health.

In third grade, they moved Luca to Global Village Academy Douglas County, a charter school, where he continued his Mandarin immersion learning with Mrs. Shan

Neuman. “In January, he was invited to participate in the Chinese bridge competition,” his mother told The Villager.

The Pole family lives in Centennial and Luca will begin sixth grade at Campus Middle School (CMS) in August.

Larry and Traci are “currently Luca won first place in the Colorado state Chinese lookBridge Competition for elementary school students ing for

Since Cherry Creek High School (CCHS), which is next to CMS, has a “very rigorous and strong Mandarin program,” the family’s goal “is to keep him learning in middle school with the possible bridge to CCHS as a ninth grader.”

When we asked Luca to describe his language studies, he said, “ “Learning Mandarin means a lot to me because it gives me an opportunity to connect with other cultures and to be a bridge between China and America. I think I will use it in the future for jobs and because I speak Mandarin, I will get better job opportunities.”

Looking toward the future, Larry and Traci noted, “There is an exam that is given in the United States called the HSK

ways to keep his Mandarin fluency, grow his love for language with exposure to other languages, and find leadership opportunities.”

His parents believe “Luca would love to find ways to use this language, as a tutor, as a leader in his community, maybe one day as an interpreter. He has aspirations to travel around China to see firsthand what he’s learned about in textbooks.” He is also an avid hockey player. Luca with other Colorado state champions

Luca after winning first place

to students in immersion Mandarin programs, and as you advance through this, the Chinese government gives scholarship opportunities for study abroad. That is one pathway that is currently open for him that we will continue to foster.”

PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • June 4, 2026

Arlene Hirschfeld honored with Frances Wisebart Jacobs Award Mile High United Way’s 27th Annual Women United Luncheon celebrating the power of women and girls Arlene Hirschfeld - the outstanding, special and giving woman who calls everyone Dear – is the dearest. She was especially gracious accepting this “priceless recognition” as she called it. There’s hardly a nonprofit in our community that has not had the privilege of encouragement, guidance and support of this valued, treasured, petite - yet powerful and elegant humanitarian. She credits her parents for setting the example of responsibility, her husband who shares her deep commitment to give back and acknowledged that her children and grandchildren (who were in attendance) also share this same value of concern and care.

Arlene spoke of being inspired, mentored and nurtured by others who shared her love for

helping. She has been a tremendous role model, herself, for countless volunteers for decades. “I know I sound like a broken record when I talk about the importance of each and every one of us doing what we can. In different seasons of our FLEURISH lives, sometimes we are able to do more, or sometimes less. Whether it’s helping a neighbor or regularly volunteering for in a group like United Way, it all matters. These are the words I live by: I am only one, but I am one. I can’t do everything, but I can do something. And, what I can do, I will do.”

Congratulations Arlene – most deserving award recipient – friend and inspiration to us all!

“Frances was an incredible woman who made history by founding United Way in 1887, right here in Denver, Colorado. Today there are 1200 local United Way chapters in the U.S. To be receiving this award that bears her name is an overwhelming honor.

I am humbled.”

– Arlene Hirschfeld

Arlene Hirschfeld receiving the 2026 Frances Wisebart Jacobs Award from Mile High United Way President & CEO Christine Benero, and Molly Bell of Wings (formerly ENT) Credit Union

Photos courtesy of TruBlu Images/Mile High United Way

ABOVE: Barry and Arlene Hirschfeld surround the 2026 guest speaker - actress and philanthropist Mary Steenburgen RIGHT: A group photo of the 2026 Women United Luncheon speakers, including Frances Wisebart Jacobs Award recipient Arlene Hirschfeld

DCRW luncheon, Annual Auction and presentation by Sheriff Darren Weekly Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) is ranked as Triple Crown Gold Standard Douglas County Republican Women (DCRW) and guests were privileged to an action video of actual situations and an extensive education about his staff and responsibilities for the vast community of Douglas County by Sheriff Darren Weekly. He also shared the advances in tools to stop the bad guys.

Weekly, a Colorado native, grew up in Southeast Denver and is the 34th Sheriff of Douglas County. His commitment to public service began early; he served as a Police Explorer at the age of 16 and officially entered law enforcement as a reserve officer with the Cherry Hills Village Police Department at age 21 and joined the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office in 1993. His career is characterized by a diverse range of tactical and investigative experience. In 2024, he graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia – a prestigious program for the Top 1% of law enforcement leaders worldwide. He calls his staff Rock Stars – scooping up the best of the best who want to work for his department. He, with his staff, changed the mission and values. They have solved seven cold cases in seven years and with Aurora, have their own crime lab.

Abby Corrigan, who brought in the most new members, with Membership Chair Deb Nelson

RIGHT, ABOVE: DCRW Board member Anne Weekly, her husband Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly and DCRW President Sharise Plescia RIGHT: Jake Bockenfeld (candidate for Douglas County Commissioner), Danielle Lammon (candidate for State Senate District 27) and Toby Damisch (candidate for reelection as Douglas County Assessor)

New DCRW members received welcome bags: Tim Dietz – running for Douglas County Treasurer, accepted on behalf of his wife JoAnna, and Karen Steighner Photos by Scottie Iverson

Carol Waller perused the silent auction

June 4, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11

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Looking ahead to ’26 by looking back at ’25

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With the Avalanche and Nuggets eliminated from their playoffs and the Rockies once again going nowhere, it’s not too early to assess the Broncos’ recently announced 2026 schedule and speculate on their postseason prospects.

Based on the wonlost records for all teams in the 2025 season, Denver has the 15th toughest schedule this year.

Last season it ranked 16th.

The 2026 schedule also is the easiest of all four AFC West teams, based on last year’s records. Kansas City has the fifth-toughest schedule in all of pro football; the Raiders seventh and the Chargers ninth.

Fourteen of the Broncos’ 17 games, which include all three AFC West home-andhome matchups, are against teams with tougher schedules.

Seeking to go all the way this season after falling just short against New England, the Broncos begin and finish with arguably their toughest stretches of 2026-27 After the season-opener in Kansas City on Monday Night Football Sept. 14, Denver plays: Jacksonville (13-4 last season) and the Los Angeles Rams (12-5) in Denver, then the 49ers (12-5) and Chargers (11-6) on the road, followed by defending Super Bowl champion Seattle at home— on short rest, a Thursday night game. Oct. 15.

A particularly emotional test is sure to be “the Walmart Bowl,” when Walmart-heirby-marriage Stan Kroenke brings his Rams to Denver to visit Walmart-heir-by-marriage Greg Penner and the Broncos.

The eight games between October 25 and December 25 feature only one team with a winning record is 2025, the Steelers, 10-7. Another, though, is Kansas City, which remains feared despite coming off a 6-11 season, and another, Carolina, won the NFC South Division and qualified for the playoffs with an overall 8-9 record.

Christmas Day features tough one at home against Buffalo (12-5 in ’25), followed by a trip to the Super Bowl runners-up Patriots (14-3) in what could be frosty New England on Jan. 3. The regular season ends in Denver with the year’s second meeting against the Chargers, who likely will be contending for a playoff spot.

Have you wondered how the National Football League develops its schedule?

George W. Bush was in the second year of his first term. The rubble and anger

of the 9/11 attack remained top of mind. And the NFL had realigned into the eight, four-team divisions we know today.

The “core schedule” adopted in 2002 and still in use now called for: • Home-and-away games against the other three teams in the same division; • Games against one entire division from the same conference, on a rotating three-year cycle (for Denver this year, Patriots, Bills, Dolphins and Jets); • Games against one entire division from the opposing conference on a rotating four-year cycle (for Denver this year, Rams, 49ers, Seahawks and Cardinals); and • Two intraconference games matching teams that finished in the corresponding position in the previous year’s standings (for Denver this year, the Jaguars and Steelers).

A 17th game was added in 2021—against a team from the opposite conference based on the prior season’s standings (for Denver this year, the Carolina Panthers).

I would argue that Denver faces a tougher road to the Super Bowl to be held in Stan Kroenke’s So-Fi Stadium next Feb. 14 than the Strength of Schedule formula suggests.

Both ESPN and FanDuel Sports Book rank Kroenke’s Rams the top choice to win it all, beating the Baltimore Ravens. The next NFC contender is defending champ Seattle, and second choice in the AFC is Buffalo.

Of those four, Denver plays all but the Ravens. On the bright side, all three are in Denver.

It’s also fair to question the validity of all this.

Same time last year, the Over/Under on Denver victories in the coming season was 9.5. (The Broncos won 14 and came within a broken ankle of going to the Super Bowl.)

The top six teams projected to reach the Super Bowl were Philadelphia, Baltimore, Buffalo, Kansas City, Green Bay and Detroit. (Two teams, Baltimore and Kansas City, finished with losing records, and Detroit missed the postseason despite a 9-8 finish.)

None of the others made it to Levi’s Stadium—only Buffalo even winning a playoff game among them.

So, what should all this tell you?

As my dad always told me, don’t bet more than you’re willing to lose. ________________ Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@ comcast.net.

June 4, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13

Power Outage Transforms Choral Concert Into Unforgettable Performance Moments before the opening downbeat of a major collaborative choral performance, a sudden power outage affected Cherry Hills Village and the surrounding area.

What followed became one of the most unforgettable performances in the 46-year history of the Cherry Creek Chorale.

The May 9 concert, From Darkness Into Light: The Soul’s Journey, featured more than 200 singers and instrumentalists performing Aeterna Via, a seven-movement work by acclaimed composer Elaine Hagenberg exploring themes of darkness, longing, resilience, and light.

Participating ensembles included the Cherry Creek Chorale, Stratus Chamber Orchestra, D’Evelyn High School singers, and members of Foothills Community Choir, Trinity UMC Chancel Choir, and the Colorado Korean Chorus.

The concert followed the previous evening’s Colorado premiere of Aeterna Via, which featured Hagenberg in attendance as part of a week-long artist residency with the Chorale. During her visit, she collaborated in rehearsals and participated in a Chorale-sponsored educational outreach event at D’Evelyn High School.

Just as the conductor took the podium, the power went out. With emer-

Dear Readers,

gency lighting in place, Artistic Director and Conductor Brian Patrick Leatherman looked at the audience and then turned to the choir, smiled, and confidently raised his baton.

Everyone assumed the outage would last only a few minutes, but over the course of the thirty-minute work, the sun set beyond the sanctuary’s west-facing windows and it steadily darkened. Notes on the printed scores faded and everyone in the sanctuary became a silhouette. By the final movements, performers relied on listening, memory, instinct, and one

How should professional corporation stock, oil, gas and mineral rights be handled under your Revocable Living Trust?

you should consider having the buy-sell agreement provide for the purchase price to be made to the trust at death.

PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION STOCK Colorado requires that the stock in a professional corporation be registered in the personal name of the practitioner. Therefore, this type of asset cannot be transferred to the trust during your lifetime. However, probate may be eliminated by executing a stock assignment to your trust in which you state: “This assignment is to take effect upon my death and is made pursuant to the provisions of Section 15-15-101 of the Colorado Probate Code”. This qualification in the assignment leaves you as the registered shareholder during lifetime, but avoids probate at death.

If the stock is subject to a buy-sell agreement with the corporation, or with other professional shareholders,

OIL, GAS AND MINERAL RIGHTS; ROYALTIES AND WORKING INTERESTS Prior to transferring oil, gas and mineral interests to your trust, you must determine what kind of interests you own. You may own oil, gas or mineral interests under the surface of a parcel of land owned by another.

You may have leased your interests to another and have a royalty interest. You could also have a working interest in the profits of oil, gas or minerals produced from a parcel of land. The manner of transferring these interests to your trusts will depend on the type of interests you own. If you own multiple types of interests in the same property, you may need to perform multiple conveyances with regard to

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another.

Without technology, the moment became profoundly intimate. Stripped of stage lighting, projections, amplification, and other distractions, the music was heard through human sound alone.

“What emerged was something none of us could have planned,” said Leatherman. “The darkness changed the way we listened. Everyone in the room became completely focused on the experience of the music.”

The atmosphere mirrored the emotional arc of the work itself. Aeterna Via — translated as “The Eternal Way” — traces a journey through uncertain-

the property to ensure that all interests are transferred to your trust.

In addition, the laws of the state where each oil, gas or mineral interests is located will govern the mechanics of transferring the interest to your trust.

In some states, the interest may constitute real property and must be transferred by a Deed. In other states, the interest may constitute personal property and may be transferred by an Assignment. Therefore, you should consult with an attorney whose practice encompasses oil, gas and mineral law in the location where the interest is held.

Although additional fees may be required, local legal counsel’s knowledge of the local law and transfer procedures will likely be a significant benefit to you and the future beneficiaries of the trust.

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

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

To avoid this problem and to help others care for you and to achieve your overall estate planning goals, the

ty, fear, longing, and ultimately toward light and homecoming.

A palpable sense of anticipation filled the hall as performers and audience alike wondered whether the ensemble could carry the work to its conclusion in near darkness. When the powerful chord sounded — on the final sung word, “Light” — the audience rose immediately to its feet in a prolonged standing ovation and cheers, celebrating both the moving music and the extraordinary feat they had witnessed.

“You proved tonight that voices raised with heart, body, and soul can light a room brighter than any bulb ever could.” — Stuart Dameron, conductor and audience member With power unavailable, the planned livestream could not proceed, and the second half of the concert was canceled after confirmation that electricity would not be restored that evening. Even so, the interruption gave rise to a rare and deeply moving artistic experience.

For one remarkable half hour, as technology fell away and daylight disappeared, hundreds of listeners experienced the new work in near darkness — guided only by the sound of human voices and orchestra. The power failed.

The music soared.

For more information, visit Cherry CreekChorale.org

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 At-

torney 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.

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LEGALS

PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • June 4, 2026

COURTS

The Villager Newspaper has been awarded the

BE ST Public Notice Section 5 years running by the Colorado Press Association

1st place - 2018, 2021, 2023, 2024 2nd place - 2022 and the

2018 BE ST Public Notice Section by the National Newspaper Association

Miscellaneous NOTICE TO MOTHER BY PUBLICATION LEGAL NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE ADOPTION OF E.S.

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Amanda Brooks, address, place of employment, and contact information unknown. You have been identified as the biological mother of a Caucasion female child, born on December 13, 2020 in Thornton, Adams County, Colorado. The child was conceived on or about March 13, 2020 in Colorado. The child has resided with Brent and Carla M. in Omaha, Sarpy County, Nebraska since 2023 and Brent and Carla M. have filed a Petition for the Adoption of E.S. in the County Court of Sarpy County, Nebraska, filed at docket AD25-66.

Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for the City of Cherry Hills Village, Arapahoe County, Colorado, Case No. 25-08-0275P. The Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) solicits technical information or comments on proposed flood hazard determinations for the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and where applicable, the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report for your community. These flood hazard determinations may include the addition or modification of Base Flood Elevations, base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries or zone designations, or the regulatory floodway. The FIRM and, if applicable, the FIS report have been revised to reflect these flood hazard determinations through issuance of a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR), in accordance with Title 44, Part 65 of the Code of Federal Regulations. These determinations are the basis for the floodplain management measures that your community is required to adopt or show evidence of having in effect to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. For more information on the proposed flood hazard determinations and

A hearing for the adoption of E.S. by Brent and Carla M. has been scheduled for June 9, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. in Sarpy County Court Courtroom No. 1, 1210 Golden Gate Drive, Papillion, Nebraska.

By: Michaela Skogerboe, Attorney for Petitioners Brent and Carla M. P.O. Box 460707 Papillion, NE 68046 402-317-0100 michaela@skogerboelaw.com Published in The Villager First Publication: May 19, 2026 Last Publication: June 4, 2026 Legal # 5019_ ADOPTION OF E.S. ________________________

FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

information on the statutory 90day period provided for appeals, please visit FEMA’s website at https://www.floodmaps.fema.gov/ fhm/BFE_Status/bfe_main.asp , or call the FEMA Mapping and Insurance eXchange (FMIX) toll free at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877336-2627).

Published in The Villager First Publication: May 28, 2026 Last Publication: June 4, 2026 Legal # 31382 ________________________ PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Jeffrey Paul Trusler, Deceased Case No.: 2026PR30542 All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Arapahoe County, Colorado on or before October 4, 2026, or said claims may be forever barred.

Jennifer Toper, Personal Representative c/o Baker Law Group, PLLC 8301 E. Prentice Ave., Suite 405 Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111 Published in The Villager First Publication: June 4, 2026 Last Publication: June 18, 2026 Legal # 5021_NTC_Trusler_ Case No.: 2026PR30542 ________________________

DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of: ELIZA JADE CLARK AND EYEAH UNIQUE NITZ, Children, and concerning, COLLEEN JEAN CLARK AKA COLLEEN JEAN TROYER AKA COLLEEN JEAN NITZ, RIGOBERTO ROSALES MUNIGA, AND ELMER LEROY NITZ, Respondents.

Madeline Doerr, Reg. #60483 Assistant Co Attorney Office of the County Attorney Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 mdoerr@arapahoegov.com Case No: 2025JV348 Division: 22 NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING RESPONDENT, RIGOBERTO ROSALES MUNIGA PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding RIGOBERTO ROSALES MUNIGA is set on JUNE 15, 2026 at 10:45 a.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112.

You have the right to be represented by an attorney during these proceedings; if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to represent you. In the event you fail to appear for said hearing at the date and time indicated, the Petitioner, the People of the State of Colorado, will request that the Court enter a

SPECIAL DISTRICTS CITYSET METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 NOTICE CONCERNING 2025 BUDGET AMENDMENT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to all interested parties that the necessity has arisen to amend the CitySet Metropolitan District No. 2 2025 Budget; and that a copy of the proposed Amended 2025 Budget has been filed at the District’s offices, 141 Union Boulevard, Suite 150, Lakewood, Colorado, where the same is open for public inspection; and that adoption of the Resolution Amending the 2025 Budget will be considered at a public meeting of the Board of Directors of the Districts to be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 3:00 P.M. via Zoom and can be joined through the directions below: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5469119353?pwd=SmtlcHJETFhCQUZEcV BBOGZVU3Fqdz09 Meeting ID: 546 911 9353

Passcode: 912873 Dial In: 1-719-359-4580 Any elector within the District may, at any time prior to the final adoption of the Resolution to Amend the 2025 Budget, inspect and file or register any objections thereto.

CITYSET METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NO. 2 By /s/David Solin Secretary Published in The Villager Published: June 4, 2026 Legal # 31389 ________________________

default judgment against you and adjudicate the child dependent and neglected and adopt the prepared treatment plan for you in accordance with the Colorado Children’s Code.

Division: 22 NOTICE OF DEFAULT ADJUDICATORY HEARING AND DISPOSITIONAL HEARING CONCERNING RESPONDENT, JOHN DOE

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

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

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

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

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

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that an Adjudication Hearing and Dispositional Hearing regarding JOHN DOE is set on JULY 6, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. in Division 22 at the Arapahoe County District Court, 7325 South Potomac Street, Centennial, Colorado 80112.

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

The Arapahoe County District Court is holding hearings via Cisco WebEx Meetings to allow for audiovisual and/or audio participation. Participants may use any computer, tablet or smart phone equipped with a camera and microphone for audiovisual participation. Parties should use the following link:

Respectfully submitted May 26, 2026.

Assistant Co Attorney Published in The Villager Published: June 4, 2026 Legal # 31387 ________________________

• https://judicial.webex.com/ meet/D18-ARAP-Div22

DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF ARAPAHOE STATE OF COLORADO 7325 S. Potomac Street Centennial, Colorado 80112 PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO Petitioner, In the Interest of: MA’KOALANI MIKALA WILLIAM, Child, and concerning,

• Enter your name and email address (so we know who you are). You will then be in the virtual courtroom.

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

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

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

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

MAILIILEEN IENA WILLIAM AND JOHN DOE, Respondents.

Madeline Doerr, Reg. #60483 Assistant County Attorney Office of the County Attorney Arapahoe County Department of Human Services 14980 East Alameda Drive Aurora, CO 80012 mdoerr@arapahoegov.com Phone: 720-874-3244

Respectfully submitted May 26, 2026.

Assistant Co Attorney Published in The Villager Published: June 4, 2026 Legal # 31388 ________________________

Case No: 2026JV68

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

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.

NOURISH MEALS ON WHEELS NOURISH NIGHT OUT THURSDAY, JUNE 18 An Evening to Savor Gather around the table for a shared meal inspired by the dishes our clients look forward to most, brought to life by Executive Chef Andrew Forlines and the Nourish team. Enjoy cocktail hour with hosted beer and wine and soulful bites, followed by a meal worth gathering for. Highlands Ranch Senior Center. 200 E Highlands Ranch Pkwy. Event Tickets: $135 per person. Online Silent Auction Opens June 11. Bid online from anywhere! No ticket required. nourishmealsonwheels.org 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 550seat 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 303-488-0018 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 301-404-2706 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 303759-9232 for a free breakfast. Have fun meeting new friends and an opportunity to give back to the community.

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

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

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 303-795-4511 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/Black-Baseballs-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 RESTAURANT NOW OPEN Inspired by the shores of the Mexican Rivierabringing 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. 720-464-3819.

RODIZIO GRILL “THE BRAZILIAN STEAK HOUSE” LOCATED IN THE DTC AT 125 & Dry Creek and Downtown Denver, 18th & Wynnkoop

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. 303-758-0999. 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. 719-992-0127. www.aislynderm.com “We Do It All.” JOSHUA TREE EXPERTS - CERTIFIED ARBORISTS Schedule a Winter Arborist Inspection to develop a tree care plan for the winter time.303-229-8777. www.joshuatreeexperts.com/denver-south-co ROGERS & SONS INC. - ELEVATED CLIMATE CONTROL Curated Cooling & A/C Services; Radiant Heating & Snow Melt Integration; Whole-Home Humidification and more. Private Consultations: 720-408-7411. https://rogershvac.com CARLA’S A CLASSIC DESIGN From unique gifts to festive decor. Shop small and local at The Streets at Southglenn, 6851 S. Gaylord St., Centennial. 303-683-0372 GE TREE SERVICE Trusted & Reliable for 20 years. A Certified Arborist, Licensed & Insured, Family Owned & Operated.

Free estimates. Call 303-500-2017. www. coloradotreeremoval.com

FIRST AMERICAN STATE BANK Locally Owned and operated. 8390 E. Crescent Parkway, Suite 100, Greenwood Village.

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.

MOVET - PRIMARY CARE VETERINARY SERVICES

COWBOY MOVING & STORAGE Commercial & Residential Moves - Also, load & hold.

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. 720531-3998.

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. 720-315-7778 or visit ParksideVillageRetirement.com

Lexus RZ 550e F Sport AWD Delivers Electric Luxury for Colorado Roads Luxury, performance and advanced technology come together in the 2026 Lexus RZ 550e F Sport AWD, an all-electric crossover that may be one of the smoothest and most refined vehicles I have driven this year.

My test vehicle arrived in attractive Wind exterior paint and carried a final sticker price of $62,034. While the base vehicle is impressive on its own, several options helped push the price upward, including striking blue brake calipers, a Mark Levinson premium audio system and a luxury package designed with cold-weather drivers in mind.

The luxury package includes features Colorado motorists will appreciate, such as a windshield

wiper deicer, heated outside mirrors, heated washer system and other comfort features that make winter driving easier and safer.

Built in Toyota City, Japan, the RZ 550e F Sport AWD is powered by a dual-motor electric powertrain producing an impressive 442 horsepower.

Yet during my week behind the wheel, I found myself less interested in testing its maximum performance and more interested in seeing how efficiently it could handle a mountain excursion.

With a fully charged range of approximately 229 miles, I set out for the Colorado mountains with a conservative driving approach. The radio was playing, the air conditioning was running,

and I focused on comfort rather than acceleration. Going uphill, I resisted the temptation to test all 442 horsepower and instead concentrated on stretching the available range.

My estimate was that a 170mile trip would consume roughly 130 miles of available range.

When I returned home, that prediction proved remarkably accurate.

The experience demonstrated that range anxiety can be managed with thoughtful driving, even on Colorado’s demanding terrain. Owners who plan their trips carefully should find the RZ capable of handling most daily driving duties with ease.

What impressed me most was the overall driving experience. The RZ is exceptionally smooth, quiet and refined. It glides down the highway with an almost effortless feel.

The cabin remains remarkably peaceful, allowing passengers

By H. Throttle

to enjoy conversation or the outstanding Mark Levinson sound system.

The F Sport trim adds a more athletic character to the vehicle without sacrificing comfort.

Steering is responsive, handling is confident and the all-wheeldrive system inspires confidence whether driving on dry pavement or facing Colorado’s changing weather conditions.

Safety is another strong point.

The RZ earns five-star ratings in frontal crash, side-impact crash and rollover evaluations, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Efficiency is equally impressive. The vehicle is rated at the equivalent of approximately 95 MPGe. Recharging from a home charging system typically requires about eight hours to restore the battery to its full range, making overnight charging a practical solution for most owners.

Electric vehicles continue to

evolve, and Lexus has produced one that feels every bit as luxurious as its gasoline-powered models. The RZ 550e F Sport AWD combines performance, comfort, safety and technology into a package that is exceptionally well suited for Colorado drivers.

One final observation concerns the dealership experience.

Lexus dealers continue to set a high standard for customer service. Comfortable waiting lounges, knowledgeable sales staff, skilled technicians and attentive service departments help make ownership a pleasant experience long after the initial purchase. In an era when customer service can sometimes be an afterthought, Lexus dealers remain an important part of the brand’s appeal and help justify the premium reputation the company has earned.

Quite simply, it is a sensational automobile. It is sleek, smooth, comfortable and confidence-inspiring. It is the kind of vehicle many drivers dream about owning, and Lexus has delivered a compelling glimpse of what the future of luxury transportation may look like.

PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • June 4, 2026

Starting June 1, visit the library to choose a free book to keep. Find summer events at arapahoelibraries.org/ summer-reading