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VOLUME 44 • NUMBER 44 • SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
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St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church 5555 S. Yosemite Greenwood Village
For questions: call (303) 773-3411 ext. 110 or email: tables@stcatherine-philoptochos.org
PAGE 2 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026
Attend a Tables Extraordinaire Holiday Tea Holiday Teas: Festive High Tea with Table Viewing Purchase tix in advance by 11/4 11/11 @ 9:30am & 1pm 11/12 @1pm Attend a Tables Extraordinaire Table Viewing: Attend a Tables Extraordinaire Holiday Tea Tour Teas: the tables, receive a sample pastry box & shop Holiday Festive High Tea with Table Viewing Purchase tix 9am-12pm in advance(last by 11/4 11/12 entry 11:30am) 11/11 @ 9:30am & 1pm 11/13 9am-4pm (last entry 3:30pm)
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11/12 @1pm Attend a Tables Extraordinaire Table Viewing: Shop our Holiday Bake Shop: Tour the tables, receive a sample pastry box & shop Shop Greek pastries and11:30am) goodies. Makes great 11/12 our 9am-12pm (last entry 11/13 9am-4pm (last entry hostess gifts! Presales close3:30pm) 11/4 online
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Sales begin September 15:
Shop our Holiday Bake Shop: Shop our Greek pastries and goodies. Makes great hostess gifts! Presales close 11/4 online
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For questions: call (303) 773-3411 ext. 110 or questions: email: tables@stcatherine-philoptochos.org For call (303) 773-3411 ext. 110
St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church 5555 S. Yosemite Greenwood Village
or email: tables@stcatherine-philoptochos.org St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church 5555 S. Yosemite Greenwood Village
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freedom requires restraint? Longing for Freedom that The answer will not be found in I worry we are going to lose our freedom to the drumbeat of collectivism. As much as I care about my neighbor, I do not want to be forced to give them something I worked hard for; I want to give from the abundance of my heart. America was founded on the principle of freedom: people can make their own choices and govern themselves. Opportunities should be available and equal for everyone, but outcomes are not guaranteed. If someone chooses not to get an education, becomes addicted, breaks the law, becomes violent, cheats, and loses their home, friends, and family, how is it my fault? If some choose to have children outside of a safe and stable marriage and cannot support them financially, why do I have to pay for nearly 90 welfare programs? The Founders did not believe that freedom meant simply doing whatever we wanted. They understood something much deeper. A constitutional republic could survive only if its citizens possessed enough self-government, character, moral responsibility, and commitment to justice to restrain themselves when necessary. The Constitution could establish boundaries for government. It could divide power, protect rights, and create checks and balances. But it could not make citizens virtuous. No document can substitute for character. Keeping it requires more than defending the Constitution when it benefits us. It requires the humility to uphold principles even when doing so is inconvenient. Self-government begins with self-regulation. It means learning to control anger before it controls us. It means resisting the temptation to lie when the truth costs us something. It means refusing to steal, cheat, manipulate, or destroy simply because we believe we can get away with it. We see it when disagreements turn into hatred. When we treat political opponents as enemies rather than fellow citizens. When freedom of speech is defended only by those who agree with us. When we replace personal responsibility with the insistence that someone else bears the consequences of our choices. We see it when families fracture because people refuse to practice patience, fidelity, forgiveness, sacrifice, and responsibility. We see it when young people are taught their rights but not their responsibilities. We see it when citizens demand justice for themselves while showing little interest in justice for others. And perhaps most dangerously, we see it when we begin to expect government to solve problems that ultimately require character. A republic cannot remain healthy if citizens continually surrender responsibility for their
choices. Government can enforce laws, but it cannot make us honest. It can redistribute resources, but it cannot make us generous. It can punish wrongdoing, but it cannot create integrity. The genius of the American experiment was the belief that ordinary people could participate in governing themselves because they possessed the capacity for reason, responsibility, virtue, and moral judgment. Our Constitution is not merely a legal document. It is an invitation and a challenge. Can we disagree without destroying one another? Can we exercise freedom without abusing it? Can we pursue our own interests while keeping the common good in mind? Can we teach our children that rights come with responsibilities and
Washington. It will be found in us. The American experiment depends on citizens willing to practice the virtues that make liberty possible: self-control, courage, honesty, responsibility, compassion, justice, and respect for others. I hope for a country where citizens recognize that cheating, fraud, graft, and corruption can be stopped not only by laws but also by doing what is right and just. An inner locus of control, rather than fear of punishment, is essential. I love the John F. Kennedy quote, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but rather what you can do for your country.” As I long for freedom, I am reminded that freedom requires giving rather than taking, character rather than chaos. This is the only way our great country can survive and thrive. joneen@ narme.org
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Opinion
PAGE 4 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026
Susan has now taken the reins When the community writes and has become a first-class puba story back lisher and marketer. Patrick has My daughter Susan, co-publish-
er, recently asked me to write another column about walking down memory lane for 67 years. Last week, I did that, looking back at my years in Craig, Colorado, and the long journey that eventually brought Gerri and I to The Villager and 45 years of publishing in the South Metro Denver community. This week, however, I want to look in a different direction. I want to say THANK YOU. On Aug. 29, Gerri and I were deeply honored when we were inducted into the Colorado Press Association Hall of Fame. Some time before the convention, we were contacted and told we had been selected for the Hall of Fame. We still don’t know who nominated us or exactly how the nomination came about, but we were certainly honored to learn that the Colorado Press Association had selected us. We were then asked to provide information about our newspaper career for the convention program. It was an honor to have our names and career included in the program as part of the Hall of Fame recognition. When the evening arrived, we wanted our family, and newspaper staff to be there with us. We invited them to attend, and we purchased dinner tickets for our staff so they could share this special occasion with us. The award was presented to “Bob and Gerri Sweeney,” and that is exactly how it should be. Our four children — Saundra, Sharon, Susan and Patrick — have been one of the great secrets to whatever success Gerri and I have had in the newspaper business. They all grew up around newspapers. They had newspaper routes when they were young, and all four have contributed to the family newspaper business in important ways. Saundra and Sharon each worked at The Villager for more than 35 years before retiring. They gave a tremendous part of their lives to the newspaper and helped carry the business through many years of changes and challenges.
been our behind-the-scenes problem solver, particularly when it comes to the computers, software and technology that keep the newspaper operating. We are deeply grateful to all four of our children. The Villager would not be what it is today without them. People have asked us what will happen to The Villager as the years go by. I think we have a pretty good answer. Just look at what Susan did. After our Hall of Fame award, Susan decided to create a special edition of The Villager celebrating our family and the newspaper’s history. She gathered photographs, worked with our design/production manager Tom, contacted advertisers and reached out to friends and supporters throughout the community. In a relatively short time, Susan and Tom created a beautiful 32 page edition, with a surprise photograph of Gerri and I receiving the Hall of Fame award on the front page. Then came the part that touched us most. Businesses that have supported The Villager for years stepped forward with congratulatory advertisements. Friends purchased greeting ads. Members of our staff wrote wonderful tributes. Our society editor, Scottie Iverson, also reached out to many of our friends and rounded up congratulatory greetings from them. When that newspaper came together, it wasn’t simply a tribute to Bob and Gerri Sweeney. It was a tribute to The Villager. And it reminded us that a community newspaper is never built by two people alone. The lifeline of a successful community weekly newspaper is the people who support it. Our faithful subscribers have followed The Villager for 45 years, subscribing year after year and making it possible for us to continue publishing the news of our communities. They have turned to The Villager for stories about weddings, funerals, students & schools, local
governments, non profits, community events and the people who make South Metro Denver special. Without our family of loyal subscribers, The Villager could not exist. And our loyal advertisers are equally important. They pay to reach the people in the communities we serve, while helping support the local newspaper that tells those communities’ stories. Awards aren’t what keep a community newspaper alive. People do. Our staff has carried this newspaper on its shoulders for many years. Writers, editors, production people, photographers, salespeople and the many people working behind the scenes have contributed to its success. Tom McTighe has been a tremendous part of our production and design operation for nearly 20 years winning awards year after year. Freda Miklin has been an outstanding writer for The Villager and has also continued to win awards for her work. Scottie Iverson has served as our dedicated society editor for more than two decades covering community events and non profits. Glory Weisberg worked with us for more than 30 years as our society writer and reporter. Her contribution to The Villager and the community was tremendous, and she remains a loyal reader of this newspaper. Denny Dressman, our sports editor, spent 25 years with the Rocky Mountain News before retiring and joining The Villager about six years ago. He has been an incredible sports writer and he too has won awards for his work year after year. There are many others, past and present, whose contributions have helped make The Villager what it is today including awarding-winning Becky Osterwald and Don Ireland of sister publication Weekly Register Call. We have been fortunate to have an award-winning staff. The newspaper recently received 11 awards in the state press competition, with the entries judged outside Colorado. Those awards belong to the people who do the work every week. We have watched businesses
grow, community leaders come and go, families celebrate weddings and mourn losses. We have covered mayors, business leaders, civic organizations, schools, non profits and thousands of people doing important things in their communities. That is what a community newspaper is supposed to do. You have to get out of the office. You have to attend the meetings. You have to know the people. You have to listen. You have to care about what happens in the community. We learned that lesson in Craig, and we brought those lessons with us to the Denver area and Arapahoe County. The Villager has been fortunate to have the support of the business community, the South Metro community, the South Metro Denver Chamber, our advertisers, our readers and countless friends. Gerri and I celebrated our 68th wedding anniversary on Sept. 7. Just a few days earlier, we had been honored by the Colorado Press Association. Then we opened the newspaper and saw our friends and business associates celebrating with us. It was suprising and humbling. That edition reminded us that The Villager has never belonged to Gerri and I alone. It belongs to our family, our staff, our advertisers, our subscribers, our readers and the community we have been privileged to serve. To Saundra and Sharon, who gave more than 35 years each to The Villager; to Susan and Patrick, who continue to carry the newspaper forward; to our staff, for helping do the work every week; and to every friend, advertiser, subscriber and reader who has stood with us, we offer our heartfelt thanks. When I look at the photograph of Gerri and me receiving the Hall of Fame award, I see more than two people. I see the many hands, hearts and friendships that made this journey possible. For most of its life, a newspaper tells the story of its community. Every once in a while, the community writes a story back — and reminds us that the greatest story of all is the one we have written together.
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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 The Villager Publishing Co., Inc. 22095 E. Chestnut Place, Aurora 80016. Available for home or office delivery by U.S. Mail for $85 per year. Single copies available for $2 per issue. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID IN GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO. 80112 AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. A Colorado Statutory Publication CRS (197324-70 et al). USPS # 431010 ISSN 1539-6274 (Print) ISSN 2993-7280 (Online) Postmaster: Send address changes to The Villager, 22095 E. Chestnut Place, Aurora 80016 Deadlines: Display Advertising, Legal Notices, press releases, letters to the editor, 4:00 p.m. Friday. Classified Advertising, noon Monday.
PUBLISHER & EDITOR Gerri Sweeney gerri@villagerpublishing.com PUBLISHER Robert Sweeney bsween1@aol.com CREATIVE MARKETING DIRECTOR/ CO-PUBLISHER Susan Sweeney Lanam 720-270-2018 susan@villagerpublishing.com LEGALS Becky Osterwald legal@villagerpublishing.com NEWS EDITOR Gerri Sweeney 303-773-8313 gerri@villagerpublishing.com SENIOR 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!”
2026 Member
QUOTE of the WEEK “Theofsecret of QUOTE the WEEK staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age.” – Lucille Ball
September 24, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 5
PAGE 6 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026
f o l l ow F R E DA BY FREDA MIKLIN SENIOR REPORTER
13-time Colorado Press Association award winner Former Greenwood Village City Council Member GV resident since 1992 Mother of five graduates of Cherry Creek High School and college FMiklin.Villager@gmail.com
Greenwood Village settles Motel 6 lawsuit for $550,000, allows continued temporary housing On August 9, 2026, the City of Greenwood Village agreed to pay Neza Bharucha, Zarrin Hospitality Group, Inc. (ZHG), and the Community Economic Defense Project (Community Project) $550,000 to settle an August 1, 2024 lawsuit. The suit, on which The Villager reported August 29, 2024, alleged that the City unconstitutionally discriminated against the 129-room Motel 6 at 9201 E. Arapahoe Road in Greenwood Village and its vulnerable guests by illegally surveilling and harassing the owners and motel guests. It also alleged selective enforcement of the city’s municipal code that limits hotel and motel stays to 29 days out of any 60-day period. Bharucha’s father, Neville Sarkari, purchased the Motel 6 in 2008 and managed it through ZHG. Bharucha, a licensed psychiatrist, and her husband assumed ownership through ZHG and began operating the motel in 2017. Bharucha is ZHG’s corporate secretary, oversees employees, daily operations, and room rates. Community Project is a nonprofit that provides “a fully integrated response to economic hardship” and other services to unhoused people. The plaintiffs’ lawsuit named the City of Greenwood Village and several employees, including City Manager John Jackson and now-retired former City At-
torney Tonya Haas-Davidson as defendants. A GVPD detective was also sued, but dismissed from the suit last year. David Lane of Killmer Lane LLP represented the plaintiffs. The Greenwood Village ordinance that limits stays at non-extended-stay hotels to 29 days within any 60day period was passed and took effect in 2014. Families in crisis, for whom a government, charitable, or insurance agency had a written contract with the hotel or motel to provide temporary housing assistance, were exempted from the 29-day maximum. A 2025 court ruling in the lawsuit stated that, after the ordinance took effect, Greenwood Village initially approved Motel 6 requests to house guests beyond the 29-day limit. It also noted that similarly situated Greenwood Village hotels and motels had allowed stays longer than 29 days without facing City enforcement. In some cases, the City had expressly permitted extended stays for business guests. On July 1, 2016, however, the City’s planning manager told Sarkari that the motel’s guests did not qualify for the exception. In 2019, Bharucha partnered with the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, which rented five rooms on a long-term basis for people in crisis. She later entered into similar agreements with other nonprofits
serving families in crisis, including Community Project. On August 16, 2022, ZHG received a court order requiring it to produce records for rooms rented to several nonprofit organizations. On May 18, 2023, Greenwood Village issued Bharucha a criminal summons for violating the City’s 29-day ordinance. According to published reports, along with the summons, GV turned over 2,200 pages of information to Bharucha and her lawyers from surveillance it had conducted at the motel. The charges against Bharucha were later dismissed by the 18th Judicial District, partly because the court determined the ordinance was not a criminal statute. In the 2024 lawsuit, the plaintiffs alleged that Greenwood Village police repeatedly targeted, surveilled, and criminally investigated the motel. They also claimed the City selectively enforced its 29-day limit to drive out vulnerable people. When the lawsuit was filed, Bharucha told a reporter, “I truly feel that what they are doing is wrong. I don’t understand how a suburb can ask this population just to leave its city. It just feels very wrong…If a company rented a room, it could stay longer than 29 days. This seems very discriminatory. They don’t want people who are homeless or have
Photos by Freda Miklin
disabilities in their city.” Lane said, “The affluent Denver suburb of Greenwood Village does not like poor people with mental illness staying in hotels in their fair little village, so it passed this ordinance to keep them out. This violates the Constitution and the Americans with Disabilities Act, and we will fight it in federal court.” On July 1, 2024, just before the lawsuit was filed, the Greenwood Village City Council moved to amend its municipal code by removing the decade-old exception in its ordinance that expressly permitted families in crisis to stay in hotels or motels for more than 29 days, as long as they were sponsored by certain types of nonprofit organizations. The City finalized that change to their municipal code on August
5, 2024, four days after the lawsuit was filed. Under the August 9, 2026 settlement, in addition to paying Bharucha et al. $550,000 to settle all claims, Greenwood Village agreed to continue to recognize a legal nonconforming use that permits bridge housing (temporary housing) guests to stay at the Motel 6 longer than 29 days, but no more than 90 days, in up to 25 rooms per night. The agreement does not mention families, but each bridge housing stay must be funded by the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, the Community Project, University of Colorado Health, Colorado Health Network, or a similar Colorado-registered charitable nonprofit, until the guest secures permanent housing.
GOP candidate for governor Victor Marx joins Colorado business leaders on 9/11 to honor first responders Around 200 members of Bankers Uniting Leaders and Lenders (BULL), a community of business owners, leaders, and the people who support them, met at Eddie V’s in Greenwood Village on 9/11 for a lunch and cocktails affair to honor and raise funds for Colorado first responders through BULL’s One Goat Foundation (OGF). The Foundation is a 501(c) (3) charitable organization that provides financial assistance to first responders who need physical, financial, emotional, or mental
Victor Marx
support. OGF began its mission in 2020 and raised over $1 million through 2024. During that same period, they donated over
$400,000 to Colorado first responders in need. At the 9/11 event, BULL members added nearly $12,000 to OGF’s balance. Representing the Greenwood Village Police Department at the event was 31-year GVPD veteran Commander Ewan Skouse, originally from Scotland, who talked about visiting Ground Zero four days after 9/11 and the devastation he witnessed. He told the BULLs “That was 25 years ago. People like you, who don’t forget, we honor and thank you for your sup-
port.” Representing South Metro Fire Rescue was its Chief Governmental Affairs Officer Mike Dell’Orfano, who also thanked the group for its continued reliable support of SMFR members in need. Next, organizers brought up Republican gubernatorial candidate Victor Marx. Introduced to address the events of 9/11, he began, “When first responders are called out, and you’re in a time of need, I’ve never heard anybody ask, are you a Republican or a Democrat? You don’t ask that.
You just want help. Our country has become so divided because of politics. On 9/11, our country came together because we were attacked. We were in crisis, and all those things people used to fight and bicker about, it stopped, because there was a greater mission, to save our nation. And out of that, like we’ve heard today, it propelled us into war against terrorism.” He then thanked the veterans in the room. Marx went on, “I enContinued on page 7
September 24, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 7
f o l l ow F R E DA Continued from page 6
tered this race to become governor of Colorado because we’re in a crisis. I’m a businessman. Before I came to Colorado in the early 2000s, I lived in Hawaii. I had ownership in a construction company. We had other businesses. Then we moved here. We actually came here to kind of give back, because we were successful in what we did. We love families and we love children. Ultimately, my wife and I started an organization to help protect children, and children who have suffered the worst--many first responders would have to respond to, whether law enforcement or ambulance. It gets bad. The reason why we started that, it’s because that’s the background I came from.” He continued, “I want you to understand, I’m not here trying to pitch for votes, I’m here to tell you who I am and how much I care for people. My father was a drug dealer and a pimp who didn’t claim me as his kid. I went to 14 schools, lived in 17 houses, and I was left for dead … If it wasn’t for the help of many people who have stepped in the gap, I wouldn’t be here right now, but I’m telling y’all, my wife and I, we turned that tragedy around. I never lived according to the labels people gave me. We became successful by God’s grace, and we started reaching children who suffered the same…We’re best known for rescuing and recovering women and children from ISIS. It is documented in a film. You
can watch it on YouTube in 15 languages. I have a book called “The Dangerous Gentleman.” Please, if you want to be encouraged, get that.” Marx moved on, “My pick for lieutenant governor is a 30-year retired full board colonel from the United States Marine Corps, George Markert. My campaign manager, senior advisor, has no political experience, just like me. He served in the U.S. Special Forces. He was at the Special Missions Unit, also known as Delta. We stepped into this to help take our state back. It’s real simple. If you’re comfortable with the way our state is being run, affordability-wise, safety, and a lack of accountability up there underneath that Gold Dome, don’t vote for me. If you want change for business, if you want our children to be protected at the highest level, so law enforcement is actually supported, and if you want to hold people accountable with the money that you’re given, you’re not a taxpayer to me, you’re a shareholder. It’s a $49.6 billion industry. If you ran your business like the state runs theirs, would you still be in business?” He concluded, And there you have it. Folks, I’m honest, I care for people, and I’m married to the most bodacious woman ever. We’re celebrating 37.8 years. We have five children, five grandchildren, but our last mission together, overseas, we got about 150. My wife was on the team. She needed to be the first point of contact
for us to rescue a girl who had been held captive nine years, kidnapped as a teenager, had two children by ISIS commander. We did the rescue. No government money. None. We planned it. We executed it. We trained for six months, but my bride was the one who was the actual first point of contact, and the night we got ready, she strapped on a belly belt, put a pistol— two mags, custom dagger,
GVPD Commander Ewan Skouse
South Metro Fire Chief Governmental Affairs Officer Mike Dell’Orfano
BULLs members filled the bar area of Eddie V’s
View from the parking lot of Eddie V’s.
low profile body armor, zipped it up a coat. She did a backpack, put a tomahawk in there, some other things, night vision. How about that for getting ready for date night (he joked), and the craziest thing, she grabbed a grenade. It’s Iraq, we have a house there. It’s legal, mostly. She grabbed
the grenade, put it in her makeup bag, zipped it up, and put it in her pocket. I’m filming her…It’s been a while. That’s one of the reasons why I believe in fidelity of marriage, because she’s a shooter and her long shot is 1,120 yards. That’s what we need for our first lady and a new governor to take care of our state. My
Photos by Freda Miklin
name is Victor Marx. Let’s take our state back.” Organizers announced that Phil Weiser, the Democratic candidate for Colorado governor, had also been invited, but we unable to attend. The event was sponsored by Lendio Denver and Katherine Moskal Health Plans.
police chief, as his Mayor George Lantz and Dave Oliver is the new Greenwood new family and friends looked the city council. on. Dave’s wife pinned Oliver is a 25-year vetVillage Chief of Police his new police chief badge eran of law enforcement
On September 14, Greenwood Village Pre-
siding Municipal Judge Elizabeth Shifrin adminis-
ABOVE: GV Judge Elizabeth Shifrin administered the Oath of Office to Chief Oliver. RIGHT: Chief Oliver and the GV City Council
Photos by Freda Miklin
tered the Oath of Office to Dave Oliver as the City’s
on him as he received a standing ovation from GV
and a 15-year veteran of GVPD.
PAGE 8 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026
September 24, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 9
Third Annual Pepper’em with Love gala benefits Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary Mission Ballroom rocked with Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo in concert
T
Pawsitively the sweetest gala in town!
E
“This was our most successful gala ever and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!”
he mission of Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary (PSDS) is to provide a compassionate, loving, lifelong home where elderly dogs are cared for during their good days, bad days, and last days. Each year this heart-warming event brings awareness, tears, clever décor, exceptional entertainment, cuisine by Epicurean, excitement and an abundance of love! Photos by Scottie Iverson
mcee was PSDS Board member Phil Lipof of 9News. Auctioneer Halie Behr put her charm and persuasion to work garnering generous funds from the paddle raise and unique live auction experiences. Every attention to detail was precious including handcrafted dog centerpieces with nameplates plus logo favor boxes with gourmet chocolates. And, attendees dressed to the nines for glamorClever videos were interspersed during the program ous concert going.
- Executive Director Justin Klemer
Pepper’s Co-Founders, President Mary Leprino with her son Executive Director Justin Klemer
with dogs at the desk with “Pupdates” of the evening
Katy and Brock Smethills, president of Sterling Ranch (Gold Sponsor)
Dr. David Hurt and Scott Coors
Platinum Sponsor Casovera, Ian Leprino and Matt Leprino with PSDS Co-Founder Mary Leprino Photo by Steve Peterson/Terrachroma Everette Schneider, Jennifer Crossett (Woody Creek Management Group-Sponsor), Robert Phifer
Gary Joseph, Cheryl Joseph (Sponsor: Joseph Family Foundation), Bradley Joseph, Mary Araiza and Aaron Joseph
The Winston Award recipient (named after the first pup to enter Pepper’s Pack) Dr. Martin Randell, DVM, DACVIM and his wife Kathy
Larry DiPasquale and Paul Aylmer from sponsor Epicurean Catering
Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary Medical Director Dr. Sharon Esposito and her husband Jim with Board Member Dr. Carolyn Karrh and Lana Ortega. Not pictured: PSDS Development Director Erin Henninger
Presenting Sponsor BNY|WEALTH Market President Eunice Kim (center) flanked by Senior Portfolio Manager Nathan Crane and Wealth Advisor Megan Seff
ABOVE: Stepfanie Kramer, Larry and Jill DiPasquale (Jill and Larry DiPasquale Foundation – Sponsor) RIGHT: Handler and volunteer at PSDS Jennifer Geraghty with resident senior pup Blossom Kiha and Jensen Sutta, Dana Davis (Gold Sponsor) and Katie Grassby
Lisa Baxter, Eva Schoonmaker, Lisa Land
PAGE 10 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026
Kingsbury Open again hits its mark, raising more than 50K for groundbreaking work Annual golf tournament supports Wings of Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Research More than $50,000 was raised for Wings of Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Research Sept. 3 during the 12th Kingsbury Open golf tournament at the Golf Club at Bear Dance in Larkspur, pushing the total collected by the annual event to more than $600,000. “Every year, I’m in awe of the people, families and the incredible enthusiasm and dedication that surround the Kingsbury Open,” said Lisa Goodman, who founded the Kingsbury in 2014. “We started this tournament simply as a way to remember and honor my dad, and it has grown into something far bigger than I ever could have imagined.” All funds generated yearround for Wings of Hope support the ongoing and groundbreaking research taking place every day at the University of
Colorado Cancer Center on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora. “It’s easy to lose sight on a gorgeous day like today why this event has become so popular and critical in the fight against pancreatic cancer,” said Maureen Shul, who founded Wings of Hope after losing two family members to the disease. “Every dollar raised through sponsorships, registrations and donations goes directly toward funding research projects that will lead to more breakthroughs.” In fact, it is the seed money raised through such events as
the Kingsbury Open that harvests the early research, growing the body of evidence, ultimately leading to larger studies that directly result in improved outcomes for those suffering from pancreatic cancer. “There are still so many questions that are unanswered, not only from a research standpoint, but also from my clinical experience,” said researcher Martina Nebbia, M.D., who addressed Kingsbury golfers. “Wings of Hope-funded grants can really give the chance to help the investigators and researchers to move all of us a step closer to being able to answer those questions.” Nebbia, a CU doctoral fellow from Italy, is among the scientists at the CU Cancer Center, which has studied everything from immunotherapy to artificial intelligence in a tireless quest to find earlier diagnoses and better treatments for patients. “It’s one of the most difficult cancers to treat,” Nebbia said.
“One of the reasons is that every pancreatic cancer is different from another. One patient can have an impressive response and be a candidate for surgery. On the other hand, another patient’s cancer may still progress despite every treatment. We’re still not able to predict that response. The only way we are going to get there is through research.” Among those on the luckier end of the spectrum is Jim Comerford, a 16-year pancreatic cancer survivor who spoke at the luncheon after the tournament. “We’re really on the cusp of some breakthroughs,” he told the room of golfers. “It’s been a long history, but now it’s events like this and the support you’re all bringing that, I think, will make the difference, and it’s going to be a lot sooner, I think now, than we have felt for some time.”
From a researcher’s standpoint, Nebbia agrees that pancreatic cancer research finally has the wind at its back. “In light of the recent FDA approval of new drugs, it seems to be having a moment,” she said. “I really hope this is going to be a new starting point and maybe a game changer.” Goodman, who lost her father, Tom Kingsbury, to pancreatic cancer in 2007, sees the annual event as not only a fundraiser to support needed research into one of the most challenging cancers, but also as a way to bring a ray of positivity to the families who lost loved ones or have a loved one still in the throes of a cancer battle. “My dad is the reason we started, but this community is the reason we keep going. See you next year!” Goodman said.
For more information, visit wingsofhopepcr.org.
fo l l ow F R E DA N E WS B R I E F S
I
n addition to the mixeduse improvements and the new bridge planned for the area around Ball Arena, Kroenke Sports and Entertainment has announced it will spend $135 million to renovate the facility itself, which will have 20,000 seats when completed, along with a new 30,000-squarefoot entrance to address the crowding at the front door for Nuggets and Avalanche games. KSE also told Business Den they are planning a 34,000-square-foot area for non-ticket holders to use for playoff games. Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2027 and take
about a year. No public funds are involved. _______________________
P
roposition 132 on the November 3 general election ballot would make possession of any amount of fentanyl in Colorado a felony and increase mandatory penalties for any quantity of fentanyl distribution, beginning with an 8-year sentence, removing current options for these crimes from judges, who would otherwise consider situational factors and alternative penalties, including court-ordered treatment for users, fines, and probation. Under current law, a minimum 8-year prison term is required for the distribution
of fentanyl of any amount to a minor, at least four grams that caused death, or 50 grams to anyone. Treatment and probation are currently allowed for offenders who possess less than one gram of fentanyl with no intent to distribute and who don’t have multiple past convictions. Proponents say the measure enhances public safety by targeting drug traffickers. Opponents say it may discourage drug users from seeking treatment and treats anyone who distributes fentanyl as a major drug dealer. According to the nonpartisan Legislative Council Staff, the measure would increase state revenues
by $315,000, due to increased fines, and state spending by $68.2 million, over five years, due to the need to increase prison space. Proposition 132 is just one of 14 statewide ballot measures voters will need to decide on November 3. The Villager will preview all of them in its October 1 edition. Ballots begin arriving in the mail October 2. _______________________
C
herry Hills Village City Council is looking at a potential new plan to improve cell phone service for its residents. On September 1, the council got preliminary information about using the infrastructure currently in place, owned by
Arium Networks (formerly Crown Castle). With support from the carriers, Arium is performing technical analysis and exploration of alternatives to convert the existing distributed antenna system equipment from small-cell technology to increase its capabilities to 5G from the current 4G by raising its heights. The maximum proposed height would be 50 feet. The proposal that residents rejected via public input three years ago called for three 100-foot tall polls in CHV parks. This study is still in its preliminary stages.
HUMOR - Make Up Your Mind 35,000 Times
According to an ad I heard on the radio today, we make an average of 35,000 decisions every day. No wonder I’m so tired. That’s a lot—if it’s true. Ever the cynic, I wanted to know who did the counting and how they did it. Did test subjects walk around all day with clickers? I’ll paint my house yellow. Click. I’ll vote for so-and-so. Click. I’ll have cake instead of pie. Click. Wait. I’ll have both. Click. To learn more I went to the internet, that source of all knowledge and a great deal of misinformation. I found numerous articles stating the statistic, many of them even claiming that researchers had come up with
it. What I didn’t find were the names of those researchers. Until I do, I’m going to assume that someone just threw the number out there and it spread like everything else does on the internet— like dandelion seeds on the wind only farther. I’m sure the first person to say we make an average of 35,000 decisions a day was confident no one would check. They don’t know me. I started counting with my first important decision of the day: Should I get up or should I turn over and go back to sleep. Unfortunately by the time I woke up the second time, I’d forgotten all about counting decisions and I didn’t think about it again until
I was deciding what to wear for the day. Unfortunately that meant I hadn’t counted any of the decisions I’d made regarding breakfast. I might try it again another day. But probably not. For now I’ll just say this: It appears no one, including me, really knows how many decisions we average each day. But based on personal experience, I can tell you this: It’s way too many. Actual researchers with actual names have researched something called “decision fatigue,” a condition that develops over the course of a day in which we make many decisions. Decision fatigue results in deteriorating decision making as the day goes on. Unfortunately those same researchers can’t agree on whether it’s real or not. I happen
to know it is. Why else would grocery stores put the candy and the National Enquirers at checkout? After choosing from the hundreds of varieties of toothpaste, jam, yogurt and so on our defenses are lowered and we can’t stop ourselves from tossing a dozen candy bars onto the conveyor belt at checkout. At least some of us can’t. If decision fatigue isn’t real, why would I make a quick decision just to get it over with, then question my judgment for the next month and half? If I’m not suffering from decision fatigue, why would I ask my husband what he thinks I should do then question his judgment for the next month and a half? Why would I have two pairs of hiking pants that are exactly
the same except for the color? I was so tired of making decisions that I couldn’t decide which one I wanted so I got them both. That’s why. Now I’m too tired to decide which one to wear. And if decision fatigue isn’t real, why would some of us put off certain decisions until it’s no longer necessary to make them. For example, should I or should I not go to a Halloween party with friends? I like my friends but I don’t like Halloween. I already know that November will roll around without me committing either way. Decision made. Dorothy Rosby is the author of I Didn’t Know You Could Make Birthday Cake from Scratch: Parenting Blunders from Cradle to Empty Nest and other books. Contact her at www.dorothyrosby.com/contact.
AI & CHILDREN
September 24, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 11
Arapahoe Libraries to host ‘AI and Children’ event featuring CU Boulder professor Casey Fiesler As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly common, Arapahoe Libraries is hosting an event to help parents and educators explore its impacts on young people. On September 30, University of Colorado Boulder professor Casey Fiesler will present “AI and Children: An Introduction for Parents and Educators” at Smoky Hill Library. Fiesler will discuss the growth of AI, how kids and tweens are using it, and potential impacts on learning and social development. No technical background is needed. Attendees will gain practical ways to support young people in navigating these new technologies. When: Wednesday, September 30, 6–7:30 pm Where: Smoky Hill Library, 5430 S. Biscay Cir., Centennial Who: Parents, caregivers and educators of kids and tweens ages 5–12
Cost: Free RSVP: https://arap.li/ 3T9Ts6D “AI is shaping how children learn and interact online, and many people are looking for reliable guidance,” said Jessica Sidener, director of marketing strategy and community relations for Arapahoe Libraries. “We’re very excited to bring a nationally recognized technology ethicist to our community to help families learn about these rapidly evolving tools and navigate them with more confidence.” The event will include a one-hour presentation followed by a Q&A session. Light refreshments provided. Casey Fiesler is
an associate professor of information science at the University of Colorado Boulder whose research focuses on technology ethics and policy, particularly for AI and the internet. Her work has been featured in publications from The New York Times to Teen Vogue, and she shares technology insights on her popular TikTok account.
Note: The event is free and open to the public. Space is limited. RSVP at arapahoelibraries.org. American Sign Language interpretation will be provided. To learn more, visit arapahoe libraries.org or call 303LIBRARY (303-542-7279).
FALL EVENTS AT ARAPAHOE LIBRARIES Halloween Tales at Teatime Friday, October 9, 4:30–6:30 pm The Space and Cafe by Arapahoe Libraries, 12855 E. Adam Aircraft Cir., Englewood. For adults Adults are invited to a special Halloween edition of Tales at Teatime. Settle in with other book lovers to listen to chilling stories read aloud. Attendees can come in costume to snap a photo in front of the festive backdrop. Refreshments provided. Meet Author Lily Williams Saturday, October 10 Smoky Hill Library, 5430 S. Biscay Cir., Centennial 11 am–12 pm (Kids) 1–2:30 pm (Tweens) Author and illustrator Lily Williams will host a storytime for
families. Hear about her book series “If Animals Disappeared,” about wildlife conservation, and receive a free book while supplies last. At 1 pm, Williams will share with tweens what it’s like to be a writer and illustrator. Hear about her new graphic novel, Exposures, about OCD and the power of facing your fears, and receive a free copy while supplies last. Crow, Crafts and Curiosities Tuesday, October 20, 6:30–7:30 pm Southglenn Library, 6972 S. Vine St., Centennial For adults Calling all crafters and Halloween enthusiasts! Join us for a whimsical event inspired by one of nature’s most
intelligent and mischievous birds. Enjoy crow-themed activities, crafts and folklore. Attendees are invited to wear black and bring a shiny trinket to swap. Refreshments provided. Author Talk: Jennifer Lynn Barnes Thursday, October 22, 6:30–9 pm Embassy Suites DTC, 10250 E. Costilla Ave., Centennial For teens and adults Meet Jennifer Lynn Barnes, author of the #1 New York Times bestselling “Inheritance Games” series. Barnes has written more than a dozen critically acclaimed young adult novels and is one of the world’s top experts on the psychology of fandom. The event will be followed by a Q&A
and book signing, with books available for purchase from The Bookies Bookstore. RSVP at arapahoelibraries.org.Older Adult Resource Fair Friday, October 30, 10 am–12:30 pm Koelbel Library, 5955 S. Holly St., Centennial For adults Attendees can chat with local organizations and find resources for health, aging in place and more. They can also talk with friendly librarians to discover learning and social opportunities at the library. Light refreshments provided. Author Talk: Stephen Graham Jones Thursday, November 12, 7–9 pm Embassy Suites DTC, 10250 E.
Costilla Ave., Centennial For adults Join Arapahoe Libraries for an evening with bestselling author Stephen Graham Jones. Jones will discuss his new novel Off the Reservation, the highly anticipated sequel to The Only Good Indians. The event will be followed by an audience Q&A and book signing, with books available for purchase from The Bookies Bookstore. Space is limited. RSVP starting October 1 at 8 am at arapahoelibraries. org.Arapahoe Libraries hosts events for all ages. Most events appear on the library website on the 1st of the month prior. Learn more at arapahoelibraries.org or call 303-LIBRARY (303-5427279).
PAGE 12 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026
Here we go again! Broncos rally to win
What a difference a year DOESN’T make. After last Sunday’s second game of the season, the Broncos’ record is 1-1. And some fans are wondering if their team is very good. Two games into last season, Denver was 1-1, too. And fans were restless, as they are now. Last season, Denver made a habit of pulling games out of the fire in the fourth quarter. Against Jacksonville last Sunday, it was, “Here we go again.” Starting the fourth quarter, the Broncos were trailing 13-6 and hadn’t led at all through the first seven quarters of the 2026 season. But, just like 2025, they came to life in the fourth quarter, marching 64 yards in10 plays to tie the score with 11:47 left to play, then going 56 yards in five plays for their first lead of the season with 7:21 to go. The defense then forced the Jaguars to punt with 4:41 left. Denver’s offense kept possession the rest of the way. Bo Nix completed 22 of 31 passes for 288 yards, the ninth most yards in a game in his career, 138 of them to Jaylen Waddle, who caught eight balls after catching only one against Kansas City. Unlike the season opener, when new play-caller Davis Webb ordered up almost twice as many passes as runs, in this game he was almost 50-50. Webb made up for last week and a middling first half Sunday by calling three straight scoring drives after halftime. Redemption also belonged to Riley Moss, who plays the position that most exposes an individual to the possibility of personal embarrassment. On the seventh play of the game, Denver pass rusher extraordinaire Nik Bonitto forced Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence to fumble. Alex Singleton recovered for the Broncos at the Jacksonville 30 and returned it to the 21. It appeared that Denver was destined for a quick score. Alas, Moss was flagged for illegal contact with a Jaguars receiver. Instead of an early break in Denver’s favor, Jacksonville kept the ball and moved to its own 48. More than 40 minutes of playing time elapsed before Moss made what arguably was the play of the game. On third down-and-six at midfield with Jacksonville leading 13-6 and seeking its third first down of the drive, Moss intercepted a Lawrence pass intended for Parker Washington, the Jags’ leading receiver, at
Denver’s 33. Ten plays later Nix capped a 64-yard, eight-minute 11-second drive with a seven-yard touchdown pass to Nate Adkins that pulled Denver even, 13-13. It was the first time in five tries, over two games, that play-caller Webb got Denver into the end zone after starting a series inside the 10. Jacksonville tried to blunt the momentum of Moss’s interception and the game-tying touchdown that followed, but a 54yard field goal attempt by Cam Little, whose 68-yarder last season in the longest in pro football, curved wide left. A year ago Denver lost Game Two to Indianapolis on a 45yard field goal on the final play of the game—a re-kick after the Broncos were called for a penalty on a 60-yard miss. Fortunately, no such reversal occurred this time. The Broncos began at their own 44 and went 56 yards in five plays, scoring on a three-yard run by rookie Jonah Coleman, who was in the game because he was the team’s last able-bodied running back. (RJ Harvey was inactive with an injury and starter JK Dobbins went down after 10 carries.) Coleman also made a veteran’s contribution in the waning minutes, taking himself down inbounds to keep the clock running. He received post-game praise from coach Sean Payton for that heads-up play. This was the return of University of Colorado Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, who was on injured reserve when Jacksonville played in Denver late last season. Unfortunately for Hunter, this was not a triumphant return. He was called for pass interference inside the Jacksonville 10 on a throw intended for Courtland Sutton. Coleman scored on the next play. Denver, which lost Game Three last season (to the Chargers) before winning 11 in a row, hosts the other team from Los Angeles, the Rams, in the next Sunday night game. The Rams are the preseason Super Bowl favorite, but are 1-1 after losing to the 49ers in Australia then beating the New York Giants on Monday night. Both teams are 1-1 after two weeks. Which one will be 1-2 after Sunday night? ________________________ Denny Dressman writes a weekly sports column for The Villager. You can write to Denny at dennydressman@comcast.net.
September 24, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 13
Wedding of
Dr. Daniel Miklin & Ilana Teplitsky August 23, 2026
T
he Villager congratulates Dr. Daniel Miklin and Ilana Teplitsky on their recent wedding. They were married, with nearly 150 family and friends looking on, at The Sanctuary in Sedalia, CO on August 23. Daniel is an interventional cardiologist with Lutheran Heart & Vascular at Intermountain Health Lutheran Hospital in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. He is a board certified cardiologist who grew up in Greenwood Village and graduated from Cherry Creek High School. Daniel attended the University of Miami for undergraduate and medical school. He did his residency at the University of Southern
California and his fellowship in cardiology and interventional cardiology at Long Island Jewish Hospital/Northwell Health in Long Island, New York. Ilana is a Physician’s Assistant, originally from Israel. She came to New York at age 12 and lived there until relocating to Colorado this year. Ilana completed her undergraduate and physician assistant studies at New York’s Stony Brook University. She has worked as a physician’s assistant at New York Presbyterian Hospital and Northwell Health in Long Island, where she met her future husband, for the past six years. Ilana loves the outdoors and is very excited to call Colorado home. Dr Daniel Miklin & Ilana Teplitsky at The Sanctuary Golf Course in Sedalia, Colorado
Parents Dr. Jerry Miklin & Freda Miklin (left) and Ludmilla Teplitsky & Igor Teplitsky (right) with the bride and groom
The Miklin Men
ABOVE: Daniel & Ilana signing their marriage license RIGHT: Daniel's twin sister Becky Miklin Lipsky with Theo Lipsky From left to right: Daniel with his brothers and father: Jason, Zachary, Daniel, Alex, and Dr. Jerry Miklin
LEGALS
PAGE 14 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026
SPECIAL DISTRICTS ADVERTISEMENT EAST CONTROL TOWER ROAD IMPROVEMENTS CENTENNIAL AIRPORT ENGLEWOOD, COLORADO Sealed bids for the East Control Tower Road Improvements project, at Centennial Airport, Englewood, Colorado, will be received by the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, 7565 South Peoria Street, Englewood, Colorado 80112, until 10:00 a.m., local time, on October 5, 2026, and then opened, read aloud and canvassed. The project includes pavement rehabilitation along East Control Tower Road. Major work items include asphalt milling and paving, crack repair, and pavement marking installation. A complete set of Plans and Bidding Requirements and Contract Documents may be obtained on or after September 10, 2026 on Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/ colorado.
Published in The Villager First Publication: September 17, 2026 Last Publication: September 24, 2026 Legal # 31444 ________________________ NOTICE OF 2027 BUDGET HEARING COUNTRY HOMES METROPOLITAN DISTRICT, PARCELS A AND B ARAPAHOE COUNTY, COLORADO NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to §29-1-106, C.R.S., as amended, that a proposed Budget has been submitted to the Board of Directors of the Country Homes Metropolitan District, Parcels A and B, Arapahoe County, Colorado, for calendar year 2027. A copy of said proposed Budget is on file in the office of Ireland Stapleton Pryor & Pascoe, PC, 1660 Lincoln Street, Suite 3000, Denver, Colorado, telephone number 303-628-3664, where the same is available for inspection, by appointment only, by the public Monday through Friday during normal business hours, (i.e. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).
All bidders are advised to examine the site to become familiar with all site conditions. The project will be discussed and shown to interested bidders at 10:00 a.m., local time on September 18, 2026, at the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, 7565 South Peoria Street, Englewood, Colorado 80112.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Directors of the Country Homes Metropolitan District, Parcels A and B, will consider the adoption of the proposed 2027 Budget at a public hearing to be conducted at a special meeting of the District’s Board of Directors to be held at 13 Sunset Drive, Cherry Hills Village, Colorado 80113, on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.
Each bid must be accompanied by a Certified Check or Cashier’s Check in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid, made payable to the Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, or by Bid Bond in like amount executed by a Surety Company.
Any interested elector of the Country Homes Metropolitan District may inspect the proposed 2027 Budget and file or register any objections or comments thereto at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget.
The Bidder must supply all information required by the Bidding Requirements and Contract Documents. The Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority reserves the right to waive any informality in or to reject any or all portions of the various bid items or reject any and all bids and make the award deemed in the best interest of the Airport Authority. No proposal may be withdrawn for a period of 30 days from the opening thereof.
Dated this 14th day of September, 2026.
Any questions must be submitted to Chris Dodge, JACOBS, via email to Christopher.Dodge@jacobs.com. Questions are due by 10:00 a.m., September 28, 2026. Questions received after this time will not be accepted.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Thomas John Shopmier, Deceased Case Number: 2026 PR 030929 All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to X District Court of Arapahoe, County, Colorado on or before January 29, 2027, or the claims may be forever barred. Anna L. Burr, Esq. 2851 South Parker Road, Suite 230 Aurora, Colorado 80014 Published in The Villager First Publication: September 24, 2026 Last Publication: October 8, 2026 Legal # 31450 ________________________
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Deborah Jean Crow. aka Deborah Crow, Deceased Case Number 2026PR30917 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 01/16/2027, or the claims may be forever barred. Bryan Motsenbocker 9201 Vincenzo Dr Pasco, WA 99301 Published in The Villager First Publication: September 24, 2026 Last Publication: October 8, 2026 Legal # 31449 ________________________
Dear Readers,
10 Estate Planning Habits That Feel Responsible But Leave Gaps
It is important to prepare valid estate plan documents, to protect your legacy and achieve your overall distribution goals after your death. An estate planning habit is a regular routine or ongoing practice of reviewing, updating and organizing your legal and financial documents to ensure they match your current life circumstances. Rather than treating estate planning as a one-time event, building this habit means keeping your plans accurate as your life, assets and family grow. You should look over your will, trusts and directives every three to five years, even if nothing major has happened. You should revise your plan immediately after a major event or milestone, such as a marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, or a crossstate move. The following habits feel re-
COUNTRY HOMES METROPOLITAN DISTRICT By: /s/ David Simon President Published in The Villager Published: September 24, 2026 Legal # 31446 ________________________ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2027 BUDGET AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE AMENDED 2026 BUDGET The Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the GOODMAN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (the “District”), will hold a public hearing via teleconference on OCTOBER 21, 2026 at 6:00 P.M., to consider adoption of the District’s proposed 2027 budget (the “Proposed Budget”), and, if necessary, adoption of an amendment to the 2026 budget (the “Amended Budget”).
Misc. PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME In the Matter of the Petition of: Kahumo De Vil Chason For a Change of Name to: Kahumo Firehawk De Vil Case No: 26C100741 Public Notice is given on August 23rd, 2026 that a Petition for a Name Change of an Adult has been filed with the Arapahoe County Court. The Petition requests that the name of Kahumo De Vil Chason be
changed to Kahumo Firehawk De Vil. By: /s/ Cheryl Ann RowlesStokes Arapahoe County Court Judge Published in The Villager First Publication: September 17, 2026 Last Publication: October 1, 2026 Legal # 5025_Swiftpub_Name Change ________________________
The public hearing can be joined using the following teleconference information: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83697632759?pwd=Jsqssgx97MfaPnBsM3 WmNbHV5Ntfab.1 Meeting ID: 836 9763 2759; Passcode: 131681; Call-in Number: 720707-2699 The Proposed Budget and Amended Budget are available for inspection at the offices of CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP, 2001 16th St, Suite 1700, Denver, CO 80202. Any interested elector of the District may file any objections to the Proposed Budget and Amended Budget at any time prior to the final adoption of the Proposed Budget or the Amended Budget by the Board. The agenda for any meeting may be obtained at https://www. goodmanmetro.org/ or by call-ing (303) 858-1800. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS: GOODMAN METROPOLITAN DISTRICT, a quasi-municipal corporation and political subdivision of the State of Colorado /s/ WBA, PC Published in The Villager Published: September 24, 2026 Legal # 31447 ________________________ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE PROPOSED 2027 BUDGET AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE AMENDED 2026 BUDGET The Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the WILLOW TRACE METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (the “District”), will hold a public hearing via teleconference on OCTOBER 6, 2026 at 4:30 P.M. to consider adoption of the District’s proposed 2027 budget (the “Proposed Budget”), and, if necessary, adoption of an amendment to the 2026 budget (the “Amended Budget”). The public hearing can be joined using the following teleconference information: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83712848225?pwd=lKJbXFMv8g1bCavJSr 3DPUcwJCoZ0p.1 Meeting ID: 837 1284 8225; Password: 214507; Call-in Number: 720707-2699 The Proposed Budget and Amended Budget are available for inspection by the public at the offices of Simmons & Wheeler PC, 8822 South Ridgeline Boulevard, Suite 230, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126. Any interested elector of the District may file any objections to the Proposed Budget and Amended Budget at any time prior to the final adoption of the Proposed Budget or the Amended Budget by the Board. The agenda for any meeting may be obtained at https://willowtracemd. colorado.gov/ or by calling (303) 858-1800. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS: WILLOW TRACE METROPOLITAN DISTRICT, a quasi-municipal corporation and political subdivision of the State of Colorado /s/ WBA, PC Published in The Villager Published: September 24, 2026 Legal # 31448 ________________________
sponsible, but may communication can plans can misdirect assets. still cause conflict. leave gaps in your It is always best to consult 7. Not discussing estate plan: with an experienced probate atthe plan with family torney regarding the proper, legal 1. Writing a Will in advance, as this but never updating methods to update your existing may leave surprises plan to meet your current needs. beneficiary forms, for a difficult time. as such forms usu8. Forgetting digially override the What are the four key medical/ tal accounts in the Will. estate plan documents you estate plan, as this 2. Assuming a verneed now? can leave assets bal agreement with Many of my clients have inaccessible. family is binding, asked: “What are the critical 9. Assuming young as nothing is enestate plan documents to have?” grandchildren can inherit directly, forceable without it in writing. Merely being married does not as thus usually requires a trust or 3. Naming only one Personal give you the legal right to gain guardian arrangement. Representative with no backup. access to your spouse’s medical This leaves no plan if that person 10. Not reviewing the plan after records or make medical deciis unable to serve for any reason. a major life change, as outdated sions on your spouse’s 4. Forgetting to update docbehalf, even in an emeruments after a remarriage, as A 30% REDUCTION ON ESTATE PLAN gency. To avoid this this can leave an ex-spouse DOCUMENTS IS CURRENTLY BEING problem and to help still listed. OFFERED! others care for you and 5. Keeping only one copy of to achieve your overall FOR A FREE TELEPHONE OR VIDEO the Will in one place. It is estate planning goals, CONSULTATION, PLEASE CALL: best to keep the original Will the following documents in a place where it will not 5675 DTC Boulevard, Suite 250 create an effective mediGreenwood Village, CO 80111 be lost, destroyed or burned Telephone: (303) 758-0999 cal/estate plan package: up. FAX: (303) 758-1091 1. Healthcare Power of 6. Assuming a trust avoids E-mail: Donald@PetersonLaw.CO Attorney; all family disputes, as poor Website: www.donpetersonlawfirm.com 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. 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.
September 24, 2026 • THE VILLAGER | PAGE 15
Classified Advertising MAGIC OF THE JACK O’LANTERNS SEPT. 18 -NOV. 1 Thousands of Hand-Carved pumpkins and glowing Halloween magic at Hudson Gardens with a synchronized light show. S’mores stations, food & beverages. Tickets: magicofthejackolanderns.com Ticket prices vary based on date and availably. 6115 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton SOUTH METRO DENVER CHAMBER WOMEN IN BUSINESS CONFERENCE THURS., SEPT. 24, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Speakers: Katie Mares, Best Selling Author, CustomHER experience; Reagan Cannon, International Leadership Speaker & Coach; Barbara Brooks, Speaker & Entrepreneur. Buy tickets at BestChamber. com/WIBC
AURORA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL SOLD OUT THURS., OCT. 22, 6-9 p..m. Keynote Speaker: Chris Barton, Fonder & Creator of Shazam, Entrepreneur, Inventor, and Tech Investor. Join the waitlist for a table. Celebrating the economic successes of the City of Aurora, Adams County, and Arapahoe County at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center. Questions: 303-755-22223.
Group - an 8 lane, 25-yar, 417,000 gallon competition pool, and seating for 300 spectators. COLORADO LOTTERY REPORTS RECORD FY26 SCRATCH SALES Nearly $888 million in total venue. More than $181 million to Beneficiaries. ARNOLD PALMER CUP COMING TO CHERRY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB JUNE 7-13, 2027. The event was hosted in 2026 by Trails Golf Links in Ireland. The cup now includes 12 men and 12 women per team.
ARAPAHOE COUNTY MYSTICAL MAYHEM AT ARAPAHOE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS OCT. 24, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Glow games, Mystical Readings,Costume Contest. D.J., ARAPAHOE COUNTY HIRING dance party, free parking. $45 online pre- BIPARTISAN ELECTION order or ($50 Day of.) Includes two drinks JUDGES For the June & Nov. elections. Flexible FALL FOR YOU AT ARAPAHOE schedules, variety of positions open, open COLORADO UPLIFT GATHER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS to citizens from any county. Go to jobs. & GIVE OCT. 24-25 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Axe ArapahoeCo.gov or call 303-795-4511 FRI., SEPT 25, 10 a.m. -12:30 p.m. Throwing, Petting Farm, Escape Rooms, Columbine Country Club. Keynote speaker: Dr. Joe Sanders. $80 per guest. Chalk Art, Free Parking, Farm Fun, Circus SIGN UP FOR JOB ALERTS Register: https.//givebutler.com/c/2026- Performers. $15 online. Pre-order. ($17 Arapahoe County is hiring. Visit jobs. Day of). Arapahoecountyeventcenter. arapahoeco.gov. This is a new site. Guild-gather-give. RSVP by Sept. 15. com 574-309-1825. “BLACK BASEBALL’S CLUB NEWS HEYDAY” Capturing an Era in Art NFWALK DENVERVETERANS COFFEE CLUB and Words, Written by Villager author CHILDREN’S TUMOR Every Third Friday of the month from Denny Dressman and Art by Anthony FOUNDATION 8-10 a.m. Buck Recretion Center Topeka High. Pre-Order Now! https://www. SEPT. 26, 2-5 P.M. CLEMENT PARK Room, 2004 W.Powers Ave., Littleton. mcfarlandbooks.com/product/BlackSHELTERS J&K, 7306 W. Bowler Ave., Coffee provided by Littleton Elks Lodge Baseballs-Heyday/ Littleton. nfwalk@ctf.org BULLYING RECOVERY RESOURCE CENTER’S 2026 BELONG GALA FRI., OCT. 2, 6-10 p.m. Social Capitol, 6543 Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada. BRRC Mission. We defend bullied children and help rebuild lives. Tickets: https:/brre. bolder.bid ROTC ALUMNI RENDEZVOERS AT HOMECOMING & FAMILY WEEKEND AT CSU FRI., OCT. 2, 2-3 p.m. Tours of Military Science Bldg at 251 University. Ave. 3-6 p.m. Festival on the Oval, Beer Garden at CSU Oval, 701 Oval Dr. Football kickoff at 4 p.m. Tickets: 970-491-7774.
OPTIMIST CLUB OF MONACO SOUTH FRIDAYS from 7-8 a.m. for the pasts 49 years. American Legion Hall, Yale & I-25. Call Frank 303-759-9232 for a free breakfast. Have fun meeting new friends and an opportunity to give back to the community. DENVER LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 12 noon at the American Legion Hall, I-25 & Yale. Interested in joining? Call Bob, 720-3139741.
ENGLEWOOD LIONS CLUB MEETINGS Meets 1st & 3rd Thursdays at 7:00 CSU 50-YEAR CLUB AWARDS a.m. At Mango Tree Coffee, 3498 S. LUNCHEON Broadway,Englewood. Info: Gail 720OCT. 2-the Friday of Homecoming & 377-7682. Family Weekend. Induct the class of 1976 and present the Public Service and Career WHAT’S NEW? Achievement Award winners. Held at the Now hiring for the November Hilton Fort Collins, 425 W. Prospect Rd., election. Become an election judge. Fort Collins. Info: 970-491-6533. Apply:ArapahoeNotes.gov/electionjudges CHERRY CREEK CHORALE “HARMONY & HOPE”: MUSIC OVERLAND HIGH SCHOOL MIRTH & MUGS RAISED HIGH MAKES WAVES WITH NEW OCT. 9, 7 p.m. and Oct. 10, 3 p.m. AQUATIC CENTER Bethany Lutheran Church, 45000 E. On August 28th a ribbon cutting Hampden Ave., Cherry Hills Village. ceremony was held for the district’s The concert brings the festive spirit of first stand-only Aquatics Center. the Octoberfest to the concert stage. Tickets: 35,000 sf. facility was built by Saunders cherrycreekchoral.org Construction and designed by DLR
MOVET - PRIMARY CARE VETERINARY SERVICES In Home, In Clinic or Virtual. Locally woman owned business. 4912 S. Newport St., Denver. Call 720-507-7387 MovetCare.com
FIRST AMERICAN STATE BANK Locally Owned and operated. 8390 E. Crescent Parkway, Suite 100, Greenwood Village.
HOST YOUR EVENT AT THE JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT FREE ENTERPRISE CENTER In Greenwood Village. Events @ JARockyMountain.org
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, Green- PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION + MORE wood Village. 5 Star Google Reviews. Transportation Executive Services LLC. Call 720-969AISLYN DERMATOLOGY Dr. Aislyn Nelson MD, PhD dermatologist 5386. is located in Lincoln Medical Center, ST. ANDREW’S VILLAGE 11960 Lioness Way, Ste. 225, Parker. SENIOR LIVING 719-992-0127. www.aislynderm.com Upscale dining, engaging events and “We Do It All.” activities. Call 720-684-5913. Located at 133801 E. Yale Ave., Aurora. JOSHUA TREE EXPERTS -
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 CERTIFIED ARBORISTS Schedule a Winter Arborist Inspection you. to develop a tree care plan for the BUSINESS NEWS winter time.303-229-8777. www. joshuatreeexperts.com/denver-south-co OLIVER’S HOST A CELEBRATION ROGERS & SONS INC. Host a celebration on the full-private terrace. Accommodates 60 guest seated - ELEVATED CLIMATE for dinner or up to 85 guests for a cocktail CONTROL Curated Cooling & A/C Services; Radiant reception. www.oliversitalian.com Heating & Snow Melt Integration; ASH & AGAVE RESTAURANT Whole-Home Humidification and more. Private Consultations: 720-408-7411. NOW OPEN https://rogershvac.com Inspired by the shores of the Mexican Riviera-bringing coastal Mexican flavor CARLA’S A CLASSIC DESIGN to the table where smoke, salt, and From unique gifts to festive decor. citrus lead the way. Fresh seafood and fire-kissed meats. Cherry Creek Shopping Shop small and local at The Streets Center, Lower Level near Neiman Marcus. at Southglenn, 6851 S. Gaylord St., Centennial. 303-683-0372 720-464-3819. RODIZIO GRILL “THE BRAZILIAN STEAK HOUSE” LOCATED IN THE DTC AT 125 & Dry Creek and Downtown Denver, 18th & Wynnkoop
THE AUDIOLOGY METHOD Schedule a hearing test. 7180 - E. Orchard Rd., Ste. 302, Centennial. 720457-5113.
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 COWBOY MOVING & STORAGE Commercial & Residential Moves - Also, load & hold. Call 303-789-2200.
SEMION BARBERSHOP FOR ALL - MEN, WOMEN & CHILDREN 5910 S. University Blvd., Greenwood Village. 720-531-3998. THE EYEWEAR COLLECTION Owner Aaron Mozes is a CCHS graduate. Comprehensive Eye Exams, Eyeglasses, Contacts. 5910 S. University. Blvd., Unit D4, Greenwood Village. BKC KITCHEN & BATH Free consultation & estimate. Visit showroom at 4151 S. Natches Ct., Englewood. 303-761-7477. FALL PARTIES/EVENTS? BOOK TODAY Rocky Mountain Valet. Visit www. rockymntvalet.com KIMPTON CLARET HOTEL Host your next special event at The Kimpton Claret. www.clarethotel.com PARKSIDE VILLAGE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 14501 E. Crestline Drive, Aurora. Lunch is on us - schedule your tour today. 720-315-7778 or visit ParksideVillageRetirement.com
PAGE 16 | THE VILLAGER • September 24, 2026