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Volume 31 • Number 12 • February 14, 2013
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Since 1982 303-773-8313 • Published every Thursday
Centennial student wins Jewish Guild scholarship
Page 10
Grant goes to highachieving legally blind students
Page 13
Dionne Warwick headlines CU Hospital tower The Premiere
Page 16
Sweetheart Couple: A sweet story of love at first sight
Don’t Miss:
• Littleton city attorney resigns Page 3 Metro • Littleton inks deal with WestPage 4 public art sculpture • Englewood embellishes Kent Place corner
Page 27
Index Page 5..............................................Opinion Page 8.........................................Classifieds Page 12.............................................School Pages 13-16....................................Fleurish Pages 17-26......................................Legals
TheVillagerNewspaper @VillagerDenver
By Peter Jones Brandon Skogen has seen his share of challenges in the classroom. “It was a little bit tough trying to get used to using glasses and a magnifying glass – and things were still too small for me to even read,” the teenager said of his early years in elementary school. “But over time, I found what worked for me.” The payoff for Skogen’s hard work came, quite literally, last month when the 18-year-old Grandview High School senior was one of 16 high-achieving students from across the United States to be awarded a $10,000 college scholarship from Jewish Guild Healthcare. The annual program open to legally blind U.S. citizens includes a comprehensive and rigorous application process that considers such factors as academic excellence, community involvement and financial need. “At the Guild, we are committed to working toward a more inclusive society,” said Alan Morse, the Guild’s president. “The Guild Scholar program will help assure that more blind students are able to enroll in colleges or universities that might otherwise be beyond their reach financially. We’re not concerned with their fields of study, but we are eager to help in the education of this country’s next generation of leaders, a group that must include persons with vision impairment.” For Skogen’s part, he has maintained his weighted 4.05 grade-point average, athletic prowess and technological career ambitions by thinking of his sight challenge as more of an inconvenience than a disability. “I generally don’t see it as too much of a hindrance because usually I’m able to work around it,” the Centennial teen said. “The biggest challenge is teachers writing on white boards. It’s really, really difficult, unless they write really huge. Usually, I’ve had to make accommodations with teachers.”
Grandview High School senior Brandon Skogen is one of 16 students from across the United States to be awarded a $10,000 scholarship from Jewish Guild Healthcare. The annual program is open to legally blind U.S. citizens.
Photo courtesy of Jewish Guild Healthcare
Skogen has been at the front of the class in more ways than one. In addition to being named a Jewish Guild scholar, the high-achiever is one of 28 students from Cherry Creek Schools to make the semifinalist list for the National Merit Scholarship. He is also an Eagle Scout and an accomplished crosscountry runner. The teen has kept his eye on the prize despite being born with a retinal detachment that requires him to use special glasses and a magnifier just to read the textbooks that most
high school students take for granted. “When I don’t have my corrective lenses on, I have trouble focusing on sharp images. It’s all fuzzy and blurry. It’s hard to distinguish anything,” he explained. “I can’t make out little facial expressions or little details. When I have my glasses on, I can generally see them.” As part of the Jewish Guild’s application process, students had to write an essay about a teacher whose Continued on page 3
Flying cranes set to land in Cherry Hills Village By Jan Wondra The location of the next public art installation in Cherry Hills Village was approved at the Feb. 5 City Council meeting. The installation, by Coloradobased sculptor and artist Reven Swanson, is titled Flying Cranes. The three-crane kinetic sculpture will rest in public space near the intersection of Happy Canyon and Quincy Avenue. To be constructed of 11-gauge plate steel, each crane will be colored in vibrantly-colored powder coat finishes of blue, green and orangey-red, contrasted with yellow. Set into a natural environment of trees and a grassy berm, the whimsical cranes will
Graduation rates up Littleton boasts highest in metro area
By Peter Jones Arapahoe County’s two largest school districts are continuing to see upturns in high school graduation rates, according to newly released data from the Colorado Department of Education. As it has in recent years, Littleton Public Schools continues to boast the highest graduation rate in the Denver metropolitan area with more than 90 percent of the district’s high school students graduating in four years or less during the 2011-2012 school year The neighboring Cherry Creek Schools is inching behind Littleton with more than 87 percent of its 2012 seniors finishing in four years – up from 84 percent. By comparison, Colorado’s on-time graduation rate is 75.4 percent and the national rate is almost 72 percent. The two districts’ dropout rates are also moving in the right direction. Littleton’s is less than 1 percent while Cherry Creek saw 2 percent of its students leave school without a diploma. The statewide dropout rate is 2.9 percent. Ethnic classifications within the districts have shown improvement for on-time completions. Cherry Creek’s rate for Hispanic graduates rose more than 5 percent to a total of 79 percent, about 17 percentage points above the statewide figure. Littleton’s Hispanic graduation rate was 77.6 percent, up from last year’s 76.9. Similarly, Cherry Creek’s graduation rate for black students was 84 percent, well above the statewide rate of 66 percent. Littleton’s black students finished on time at a rate of 83.3 percent. Whites and Asians in Cherry Creek had graduation rates around 90 percent, with white graduations increasing by nearly 3 percent. Littleton graduated Continued on page 3
Notice from GV Police Department The latest public art installation in Cherry Hills Village, Flying Cranes, is shown in computer-generated position at the intersection of Happy Canyon and Quincy. spin and move in the wind. “For the placement of public art work, I had to consider, most importantly, appropriateness. The
design for a signature and sitespecific sculpture must meet the Continued on page 3
On Feb. 20, Greenwood Village Police Department will be conducting a training exercise at Aspen Academy, 5859 S. University Blvd. The training will take place from 3:30 – 7 p.m. and is only a drill. The drill will involve mobile command centers, SWAT teams and a possible “large” police presence.
PAGE 2 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
Greenwood Village responds to graffiti vandalism quickly
By Tom Barry The Greenwood Village community erected 8 - 12 foot brick walls beginning in 1988 and graffiti was one of the considerations, as masonry products require less maintenance. The primary factor in constructing these expansive walls was the appearance of the masonry structures that stretch along major roadways in the city. On Jan. 30, there was a rare sight in the Village – a well-used white service van could be seen on the east sidewalk of the 4400 block of south Yosemite – near the radar speed sign approaching I-225.
Pro contractors utilized
Gene Sarmiento, an employee of SparkleWash, applied an abrasive chemical agent to soak the obtrusive and eye-catching markings. He then used a hot water power wash to remove the remaining markings of the recently tagged blue graffiti on the 10 foot wall. The graffiti in this incident consisted of an area of about three feet high and five feet long, a relatively typical size for a “tagger.” It took the trained employee with all the specialized resources about 40 minutes
to remove the large and highly visible letters. Despite these professional efforts, minor shadowing still exists. This $150 graffiti cleaning - $10 per square foot tab – was picked up by the city, which contracts with several service providers for graffiti removal.
24 hour goal
“Our goal is to have the graffiti removed in 24 hours,” said John Sheldon, a veteran of Greenwood Village’s Public Works Department. “We coordinate this with the police department to make sure that any graffiti is documented.” In 2012, the city expended $4,140 in graffiti removal endeavors, a mere pittance compared to many other surrounding municipalities. Greenwood Village takes care of graffiti on facilities, public rights of way and parks. Commercial and residential property owners are responsible for having graffiti removed themselves. Each year the city installs additional landscaping to make it harder for taggers to gain easy access to vandalize the walls. This landscaping is done between the road and the wall. “One advantage we may have
Gene Sarmiento of SparkleWash removes blue graffiti markings from the brick wall the 4400 block of South Yosemite in the Cherry Creek Village community of Greenwood Village on Jan. 30. The city has a minor problem with graffiti as it removes the tags quickly by utilizing professional contractors. Photo by Tom Barry
is that we don’t have many painted surfaces,” said Sheldon. “A lot of the walls are masonry surfaces and the power washing is very effective.”
Tagging viewed as vandalism
“We view graffiti as vandalism and that could be perceived as a security issue in our community,” said
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Sheldon, who has worked for the city for 20 years. “We take tagging very seriously and that is why the police department is involved.” Graffiti tends to be a random occurrence in the city. It has been proven over time that removing the spray paint or enamel markings within 24 hours repeatedly frustrates the vandal who typically goes elsewhere. “Our surveillance includes the thousands of eyes from observant residents and citizens who know to contact our police department should they see any suspicious activities,” Sheldon said. Residents and businesses that experience graffiti vandalism are encouraged to call City Hall as soon as possible. The police then go to the scene and photograph the tag and review it for any potential symbolism. A contractor then quickly responds to the scene to remove the markings. “The warmer the weather – the easier to clean,” said Sarmiento. “Heat is one of the best things to use because it actually makes the paint soft – making it come off easier.” In the event of a tagging, a Greenwood Village neighborhood services officer personally notifies the property owner of the incident.
“Historically, on private property, we have never had any problem with private property owners, both residential and commercial,” said George Weaver, Greenwood Village’s director of community development, referring to his 16 years in the department. The city does not have the ability to fine property owners for graffiti that is not removed in a timely manner. “There is a judicial process for that and a compliant would be referred to the municipal court,” said Weaver. “A lot of the florescent spray paint that is used for tagging is stolen from construction sites,” said Josh Whitten, a supervisor at SparkleWash. “A vast majority of the vandalism is done with spray paint and now includes enamel pens from hobby shops.” There are numerous graffiti removal companies that work with homes and businesses. It is suggested that consumers shop around and receive estimates and referrals prior to having the work done.
Emily Baade
Kevin Huang
Emily Baade and Kevin Huang, 2012 graduates of Grandview High School, have earned a State AP Scholar Award for their extraordinary performance on the 2012 Advanced Placement Exams. They are among only 108 students nationwide to receive this honor. Last year was the 22nd annual celebration of State AP Scholars. The College Board confers this distinction on one male and one female student in each state and the District of Columbia with scores of 3 or higher on the greatest number of AP Exams, and then the highest average score (of at least 3.5 out of 5) on all AP Exams taken. Both students representing Colorado in 2012 came from Grandview High School. Baade took a total of 17 AP exams in 2012, including AP English
Literature and Composition, AP European History, AP Micro and Macro Economics and AP Statistics, and earned a mean score of 4.94. She is now attending the University of Alabama, where she has junior status because of her Advanced Placement credits, even though she is in her first year of college. Huang also took 17 AP exams in 2012, including AP English Literature and Composition, AP Comparative Government and Politics, AP Chinese and AP Spanish Literature, and earned a mean score of 4.71. He is now attending the University of Colorado at Denver Medical School, where he is one of only eight freshmen selected to participate in the Medical School program, earning both undergraduate and medical school requirements.
Residents take pride
Grandview grads named Colorado AP Scholars
February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 3
TLC Meals on Wheels appoints executive director TLC Meals on Wheels, which serves the south metro Denver area, has appointed Diane McClymonds as its new executive director. She replaces Phil Miller, who retired at the end of January. McClymonds, a Centennial resident, had been the direc-
Littleton city attorney resigns Decision came days after Crawford was put on leave
By Peter Jones Less than two weeks after being placed on paid administrative leave, Littleton City Attorney KirstKirsten Crawford en Crawford has left the position for good. On Feb. 8, the city announced that Crawford had resigned her position effective Feb. 1 – a date three days after council had unanimously approved her request to be placed on an ostensibly temporary leave. It is the second time Littleton has lost a city attorney in less than a year and a half. Crawford was appointed in March of last year, six months after the City Council fired her predecessor Suzanne Staiert without explanation. Crawford could not be reached for comment, but according to the city’s press announcement, the former city attorney’s resignation letter said she was “honored to serve the residents of Littleton and work for the city.” Because Crawford’s resignation is a personnel matter, city officials would not comment on the circumstances. “I respect Kirsten’s decision and appreciate her service,” Mayor Debbie Brinkman said. “The City Council and I wish her success in her future endeavors.” No acting city attorney has been named, though Kristen Schledorn remains Littleton’s assistant city attorney. Crawford, who had worked for the city for five and a half years, was appointed city attorney six months after Littleton’s acrimonious parting with Staiert, who is now a deputy secretary of state. Crawford’s departure comes as the city manager’s office is conducting an evaluation in hopes of identifying potential efficiencies throughout the city’s departments. Brinkman says Littleton is likely to consider the potential benefits of contracting with a law firm rather than hiring another in-house staff attorney to handle the myriad of legal issues faced by the city government. “You can’t have an attorney that has a specialization in all of these things,” the mayor said. “You’ve got to contract out a lot of work anyway. The questions are: Would we save money? Would there be efficiencies? Should we do a hybrid? It’s definitely a department that deserves a look.” Many neighboring cities, including Centennial and Cherry Hills Village, contract with law firms, as an alternative to employing a full-time staff attorney. Because City Manager Michael Penny’s evaluation is expected as soon as next week, Brinkman expects a fast-track decision in the next two months to either put another city attorney on staff or to contract with a law firm.
tor of operations for TLC Meals on Wheels since 2011. “We’re thrilled to have Diane step into this position,” said David Burcham, president of the organization’s board of directors. “Diane has served in just about every capacity for us you can
imagine. This was a natural evolution for her and for us.” In her new position, McClymonds will be responsible for overall operations of the organization, community outreach and financial development.
Littleton claims highest graduation rate
Diane McClymonds
Skogen cites technology instructor as mentor Continued from Page 1 encouragement made a difference in their lives. One teacher chosen from among the essays was to receive a $5,000 award in recognition of their dedication to bringing out the best in their student. Skogen chose Grandview technology instructor Jay Moore.
“He has been one of those mentor figures,” the student said. Moore’s encouragement eventually led Skogen to the student’s decision to study physics at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden. He would eventually like to teach or work as a researcher. Skogen is one of two Colo-
rado students to receive a Jewish Guild scholarship this year. The other is Ricardo Gutierrez of Standley Lake High School in Westminster. Jewish Guild Healthcare is a nonprofit organization based in New York that provides a variety of services to the visually impaired and developmentally disabled.
Whimsical cranes will spin and move in wind Continued from Page 1 prerequisite of both a driveby and pedestrian sculpture,” Swanson said. “The installation must fit appropriately with the natural elements of the location, as well as the neighborhood character.” Under the direction of the new Cherry Hills Village Art Commission, public art is being directed toward neighborhood gathering places and natural sites suitable to the intent of the art. “The kinetic movement has an emotional and physical connection to the migration of the cranes,” Swanson said. The image is an environmental message as well. Cranes are among the most endangered bird species in the world and were the first species to receive U.S. legislative protection. Of the two types of cranes native to North America, the whooping crane is critically
endangered, with only 500 birds estimated to be left in the wild. The Sand Hill Crane, the most common in Colorado, is also an endangered species. Each vibrant, joyful crane will fly 10 feet off the ground, on installation poles set into subset concrete pads masked by natural materials. The three cranes will line up as if in migration pattern. Like birds in flight, they will shift and move as the direction of the wind shifts, just as wind currents in flight cause birds to adjust their flight patterns. “As visitors travel past the sculpture, whether by foot or vehicle, the installation will be ever-changing,” said Swanson, “making the visual image fresh with every visit or approach to the site.” The CHVAC was careful to consult with community groups as the site selection planning got underway. “We had members of the
horseback riding community look at the site and the model,” said Councilwoman Klasina Vanderwerf, who is the council liaison to the CHVAC. “The committee wanted to be sure that the kinetic movement wouldn’t frighten horses. But we received feedback that the height of the cranes, and the location, are just fine with the horse people.” The steel sculptures will be fabricated in studio and installation is projected for early to mid-May. The body of work is on indefinite loan to Cherry Hills Village. The installation cost of $6,250 is recoverable if at some point in the future the piece is sold. “This is a signature piece,” said Mayor Doug Tisdale. “It’s a joyful, one-of-a-kind addition that will be a wonderful public statement about life and existence, right at a major entrance to the community.”
Continued from Page 1 100 percent of its Asian students and 92 percent of whites. Cherry Creek spokeswoman Tustin Amole says that district’s numbers reflect the organization’s focus on outreach to the various demographic groups it serves. Forty-three percent of the student population is African, Asian or Hispanic and 27 percent of the district’s students qualify for free or reduced lunch. “The schools work with student leaders and parents – that’s a key part of it,” Amole said. “Students from different cultures learn a little differently. Instead of focusing on how we teach, we focus on how kids learn.” That mission has manifested in a number of ways, from elementarylevel reading books with “relatable characters” to parent-staff collaborations that have strived to improve the classroom experience at middle and high school levels. “These numbers show us that we are moving in the right direction and serving the needs of all our students, regardless of race, poverty, language and mobility,” Cherry Creek Superintendent Mary Chesley said in a statement. “Still, we must use this momentum to continue our work until every student can receive a high school diploma that shows they are college and work ready.” For Littleton’s part, district spokeswoman Diane Leiker gives much of the credit to the organization’s “professional learning communities.” For 10 days each year, school starts two hours late so groups of teachers can meet in an effort to identify challenges and work out locally based solutions. “It gives teachers an opportunity to discuss individual student needs and look at data to really drill down to find out the needs of each individual student and how to address those needs,” Leiker said. “It’s a time to share some of their best thinking and best practices to help all of our kids achieve at their highest level.” Leiker says while Littleton’s accelerated programs ensure that highachieving students are challenged to live up to their potential, the district’s alternative education programs try to keep at-risk students on track for graduation. Parents have played an important role too, Leiker said. “We have a very supportive parent community and a very supportive community in general,” she said.
South Denver Cardiology Associates P.C. Announces & Welcomes the Addition of Our Region’s Newest Leading Cardiologist
Joan EldridgE, M.d.
Dr. Eldridge is a graduate of St. Louis University School of Medicine (1980) and recipient of the Upjohn Award of Excellence in Medicine. She is a 26-year veteran in the field of cardiology, focusing on nuclear cardiology imaging. She constantly explores new ways to treat & monitor heart disease. That’s why Dr. Eldridge received the National Research Service Award from 1983-85, for her work on the impact of new treatment methods on improving patient wellness.
Dr. Eldridge has published multiple books, papers & abstracts on heart disease & its effects. She lectures on the unique cardiac issues related to women & heart disease. • Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease & Internal Medicine • Member of the Colorado Medical Society & American Medical Association • Appointed to Multiple Hospitals in the Metro Denver Area • Currently Director of Cardiology at Parker Adventist Hospital, also Director of Pharmacy & Therapuetics
She will join SdCa Feb. 1, she will be located at Parker adventist Hospital
(Alpine Medical Building) 9397 Crown Crest Blvd., Suite 411, Parker, CO 80138 | 303-744-1065
South Denver Heart Center | 1000 Southpark Drive, Littleton, CO 80120 | 303-744-1065 | www.southdenver.com
PAGE 4 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
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Block of South Clarkson closed for hospital expansion
By Peter Jones Work is underway on a project that will eventually result in a new greenbelt between Craig Hospital and Swedish Medical Center. Last October at Craig’s request, the Englewood City Council voted to close half a block of South Clarkson Street to accommodate Craig’s plans for growth. The rehabilitation hospital is embarking on a $90 million expansion that will result in 80,000 additional square feet of hospital space and easier pedestrian access to either side of the medical campus. For years, employees, patients and their families either crossed an enclosed second-floor pedestrian bridge or went outside to walk across the 3400 block of Clarkson. The bridge will soon be mostly reserved for wheelchair-bound patients.
Workers prepare the north end of the 3400 block of South Clarkson Street for further construction. The overall project will eventually add two floors to Craig’s east building and one to the west building, totaling about 80,000 new square feet. The new space will include several private rooms and new therapy centers for Craig’s spinal cord and brain-injured patients.
Littleton inks deal with West Metro Jeffco fire district will service remote subdivision
By Peter Jones he City of Littleton’s new intergovernmental agreement with West Metro Fire Protection is a classic case of hitting two – maybe three – birds with one stone. This month, the City Council OK’d a contract for the Lakewoodbased fire-rescue district to help provide first-responder emergency services to TrailMark, a remote western area of Littleton, while also allowing Littleton Fire Rescue’s firefighters to utilize West Metro’s state-of-the-art training facility. As an added benefit, West Metro will also help deliver rescue services to the outlying Loch Moor subdivision. The small unincorporated Jefferson County residential area near South Wadsworth Boulevard and West Quincy Avenue has been among the more challenging coverage areas of the greater Littleton Fire Rescue service area. According to Littleton Mayor Debbie Brinkman, the confluence of issues came together gradually while the city was mulling how to properly service TrailMark, a neighborhood that has seen increases in homeowners’ insurance rates due to its relative distance from Littleton’s fire stations. “We were able to combine a number of things to make it a lot more of an attractive package for everybody,” Mayor Debbie Brink-
T
man said of the overall deal. “Then as we were working on it, the Loch Moor situation popped up – and it was like, here’s a part of that solution too.” What remains unclear is how much Littleton will spend on the multi-pronged deal. According to a city press release, Littleton Fire Rescue will pay an annual fee “that will be determined based on the assessed valuation of the TrailMark subdivision multiplied by West Metro’s 12.382 mill levy.” Brinkman says the idea is to keep Littleton’s bill in line with what West Metro’s other Jefferson County customers pay. The figure will likely be a little more than $300,000, the mayor said, noting that the Highlands Ranch Metro District, which is serviced by Littleton Fire Rescue, has agreed to help pay the bill. TrailMark, which is south of C-470 on the west side of Chatfield Reservoir, is the only part of Littleton that lies within Jefferson County. The 800-home development is just less than five miles from the nearest Littleton fire station. According to Littleton Fire Chief John Mullin, emergency responders have arrived at TrailMark homes in an average of almost 13 minutes. The average response time for the rest of Littleton has been closer to nine minutes. By comparison, West Metro has a station about four miles from a TrailMark entrance, meaning a significant decrease in average response time, officials say. Littleton has been scrambling for solutions for TrailMark since
the summer of 2011 when Insurance Services Office, a private firm that rates firefighting services for purposes of establishing homeowner’s insurance rates, changed TrailMark’s score from a 3 to a 9. A higher rating means inferior protection. A Class 10 rating indicates no fire service whatsoever. The rest of Littleton remains at a 3 rating. The Littleton city staff had initially outlined several possible strategies for improving service to TrailMark. They included building a new $2.5 fire station in the TrailMark community and detaching the enclave from the city, paving the way for TrailMark to join the West Metro district on its own. In the end, Brinkman says a mutual-aid agreement with West Metro proved to be the most fiscally responsible and politically palatable solution. According to the mutual-aid agreement, Littleton and West Metro will share responsibility for TrailMark and Loch Moor. The agency with the closest rescue team available will generally be the one that takes an emergency call. Brinkman says among the most attractive aspects of the new contract is Littleton’s new ability to use West Metro’s high-tech training center. “Our training facility in Littleton is pretty bad,” the mayor said. “It would cost us so much to try and put a new training center together, and where are we going to put it? Nobody wants a training center in their neighborhood with all the smoke and noise.”
THEVILLAGER
February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 5
The Villager
Office: 8933 East Union Ave. • Suite 230 Greenwood Village, CO 80111-1357 Phone: (303) 773-8313 Fax: (303) 773-8456
Winter weather now making headlines KINDLING
By Robert Sweeney
Weather seems to be dominating the news and New England communities were slammed this past week with snow measured by feet rather than inches. Another storm is heading their direction,
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and of course when all of this snow melts the flooding will commence. Mother Nature must be reckoned with and in our high-technology world, we don’t like to have to deal with adverse weather conditions. Certainly, the media loves to report on weather conditions, and this is somewhat of a recent revelation by news organizations that a snowstorm in February is a national disaster and needs constant coverage to the degree of scaring the daylights out of residents over By Mort Marks a snowstorm in winter. In fact, it’s somewhat shocking to see the coverage of a snowstorm. We see the same thing here in Colorado where a winter snowstorm brings out the cameras and reporters live from various locations reporting four inches of
REMARKS
snow – that is if we’re lucky. snowballs along the route. It also seemsGLORYUS to add to theGOINGS It wasON great fun to climb on importance of this news when rooftops and jump off into snow the wind chill factor can be used drifts surrounding the homes. rather than the actual temperature Those gigantic icicles hung from to drive reports to minus degrees the roofs and it was fun to break PUBLISHER & EDITOR when actually temperatures are them off and munch on the frozen Gerri Sweeney gerri@villagerpublishing.com much higher. If we have wind chill ice. factors in the wintertime, why PUBLISHER Nearby Steamboat Springs alRobert Sweeney don’t we have “hot wind” reports ways had six to eight feet of snow in the summer? VICE PRESIDENT/MARKETING and the Ski Carnival was enjoyed Sharon Sweeney I’m recalling my youth in far as an annual event. MANAGING EDITOR northwestern Colorado where Elizabeth Denton My point being, when did deep snows were commonplace editorial@villagerpublishing.com By Glory Weisberg By Kenneth W. James, CFA snowfall become such a big deal and we just shoveled the snow and SOCIETY EDITOR and that a winter storm is now rewalked through trails until spring Glory Weisberg garded as some sort of national digloryweisberg@comcast.net came and the snow melted away. REPORTERS When it snowed, we chained saster? We could use a little more Peter Jones up the car, wore overshoes and snow this winter and hopefully we peter@villagermediagroup.com GREENER PASTURES went sledding on hillsides. The won’t have to call out the National Rosemary Fetter news@villagerpublishing.com schools never closed and most Guard if we get some deep snowClarissa Crozier of us walked to school throwing fall. crozier.villager@comcast.net
CAPITAL GAINS
COLE’S CORNER
VILLAGER VOICES
Presidents Lincoln and Washington – true heroes REMARKS
Kevin Iverson
COLLEGE PLANNING: Searching for solutions By Mort Marks
Nearly 200 years ago, Heinrich Heine wrote, “When the heroes go off the stage, the clowns come on,” and in today’s world that statement, unfortunately, is being proven true. Our print and TV media have succeeded in replacing real heBy Estelle Meskin roes such as George Washington and Abraham Lincoln with the “clowns” from sports and entertainment worlds. That being the case, let me write a few words about these two real heroes whose birthdays fall February – Lincoln’s on By in Shirley Smith the 12th and Washington’s on the 22nd. One loves to read of that man who droppedMATTERS out of grade school SCHOOL and ran a country store. He went broke and took 15 years to pay off
VILLAGER VOICES
By Judith Baenen St. Mary’s Academy
A legal newspaper of general circulation in Arapahoe County, Colorado. (USPS 431-010) Published weekly by the Villager Publishing Co., Inc. Available for home or office delivery by U.S. Mail for $45 per year. Single copies available for 75¢ per issue. PERODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ENGLEWOOD, CO. A Colorado Statutory Publication CRS (19732470 et al). Postmaster: Send address changes to The Villager, 8933 East Union Ave., Suite #230, Greenwood Village, Colorado 80111-1357 Deadlines: Display Advertising, Legal Notices, press releases, letters to the editor, 4:00 p.m. Friday. Classified Advertising, noon Monday.
Jan Wondra wondra.villager@gmail.com Tom Barry Barrypr@msn.com
PHOTOGRAPHER en the weak by weakening the Washington was “First in War, the debts of a no-good partner. Stefan Krusze GLORYUS GOINGS ON First in Peace, and First in the octaviangogo1@aol.com He ran two times for the House strong. 4) You “Cannot” lift the wage hearts of his Countrymen.” of Representatives and lost both FLAIR Scottie Iverson But – what is not so well times. He ran two times for the earner by pulling down the wage swandenver@qwestoffice.net known is that on the night before U.S. Senate and lost badly both payer. By Joshua Cole ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS his death, when Washington’s 5) You “Cannot” the poor times. HeBy wanted to be the vice Shirley Smith Byhelp Chuck Green Sharon Sweeney severe ague made it difficult for president of the United States man by destroying the rich. cogambler@mac.com Linda Kehr 6) You “Cannot” keep out of him to speak, he managed to get only to succumb to defeat once linda@villagerpublishing.com trouble by spending more than his wife, Martha, to bring him his again. Valerie LeVier last will and testament. He was attacked MATTERS daily by the your income. valerie@villagerpublishing.com SCHOOL Saundra Sweeney He wanted her to know that 7) You “Cannot” further the press, and despised by half the villagerpub@mac.com country. He delivered a speech brotherhood of man by inciting the feelings and words he exPRODUCTION DEPARTMENT pressed 13 years earlier, namely that became a classic although it class hatred. Tom McTighe By Glory By Kenneth W.seJames, that,CFA “There is not a man living 8) You “Cannot” establish was delivered to aWeisberg bored and inCynthia Meschke production@villagerpublishing.com who wishes more sincerely than curity on borrowed money. different audience. 9) You “Cannot” build charac- I do to see a plan adopted for the Despite all this, think how ACCOUNTING Pat McLachlan many people have been inspired ter and courage by taking away abolition of slavery,” were not accounting@villagerpublishing.com by this awkward, rumpled, brood- man’s initiative and indepen- meaningless. IT MANAGER PASTURES He wanted to put those words ing manGREENER who finally became pres- dence. Patrick Sweeney 10) You “Cannot” help men into action by his last act on earth, ident of our country and whose CLASSIFIEDS, LEGALS & SUBSCRIPTIONS fame will last as long as the suc- permanently by doing for them which was to request and direct Nancy Russell legal@villagerpublishing.com cess of the United States remains what they could and should do for his wife to “free all the slaves who worked on their estate.” on the pages of history – the man themselves. By Jim Miller EDITORIAL COLUMNISTS By Judith Robert Sweeney If Thomas Carlyle, the ScotBut Lincoln’s most imporwho signed his nameBaenen simply – A. By Scottie Taylor Iverson St. Mary’s Academy Mort Marks tant statement – in fact, one of tish historian and sociological Lincoln. Stacie Chadwick President Lincoln was also the the most important statements to writer is correct in his statement The Villager is an award winning, locally man who has often been credited ever affect world history – was that, “Society is founded on hero owned, independent newspaper. All letters to the with the “Ten Cannots” that are issued on Jan. 1, 1863, when he worship” than our present-day editor must be signed. The contributor’s name, more valid today than ever before proclaimed, “All persons held as problems become explainable hometown and phone number must also accompany all letters to the editor for verification, and we in view of President Obama’s slaves within any state. … shall and understandable. By Joshua Cole reserve the right to edit contributions for space. We We must replace today’s be forever free…” present By dayChuck programs. Green attempt to verify all matters of fact but hold conOur other real hero is of “underwhelming” heroes, with Lincoln said: tributors liable for the content, accuracy and fair1) You “Cannot” bring about course, George Washington. Eu- real heroes, such as Washington ness of their contributions. All submissions become prosperity by discouraging thrift. logizing President Washington, and Lincoln – two people who the property of The Villager and may be reused 2) You “Cannot” help small after his death on Dec. 14, 1799, brought enduring and meaningin any medium. Gen. “Light Horse Harry Lee” ful “magic’ to the people of the men by tearing down big men. Reverend Martin Niemoller “In Germany, the Nazis first came for the com3) You “Cannot” strength- was the first to point out that world.
CAPITAL GAINS
F lair!
COLE’S CORNER
F lair!
munists, 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!”
By Jim Miller By Scottie Taylor Iverson
QUOTE of the WEEK I’ve always felt that a QUOTE of the WEEK person’s intelligence is directly reflected by the number of conflicting points of view he can entertain simultaneously on the same topic. – Abigail Adams
PAGE 6 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
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Submitted by U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette ver the past year, our nation has had to come together too often in sorrow in the aftermath of extraordinary gun violence – whether in our own backyard in Aurora, or in a small town in Connecticut. Again and again, we mourn the losses, and call for action after a massacre. But this time – in the wake of Sandy Hook – something seems different. The slaughter of 20 children in their classrooms forced our society to confront that we have not done enough to protect our children from the increasing incidence of gun violence. We are finally engaging in a larger and more productive conversation about our views on violence, our views on guns, and our views on how we respond to mentally ill individuals in our communities. As this conversation has evolved, I am hopeful we can come to consensus around reasonable solutions that keep killing machines out of the hands of disturbed individuals, while respecting the Second Amendment rights of responsible gun owners. In Sandy Hook, the gunman shot most of his victims with an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon, using multiple magazines containing 30 bullets each. He was able to kill 26 individuals, including 20 children, in less than 10 minutes. In last summer’s horrific theatre massacre in Aurora, the shooter also used an AR-15 semiautomatic weapon, with a 100-bullet magazine to shoot 71
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people in only a couple of minutes. We will never be able to stop every disturbed individual from going into a school or a movie theater or a shopping mall and shooting people, but we can slow them down and give the people in their sights a fighting chance. That is why since my time in the Colorado state legislature 20 years ago, I’ve worked to pass reasonable gun legislation to keep our families safe. I’ve repeatedly introduced legislation to ban high-capacity assault magazines, and in fact, on the very first day of this session of Congress, Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY) and I introduced that bill again. Last month, I joined President Obama at the White House as he outlined his plan for common-sense solutions to keep our children and our families safe, and prevent gun violence throughout the nation. The President immediately implemented 23 executive actions including: strengthening the system for background checks, making sure mental health professionals know their options for reporting threats of violence, and helping police departments hire school resource officers. President Obama then called on Congress to take swift action on larger proposals to prevent gun violence and keep our children safe, including: instituting universal background checks for gun purchasers; and restoring the ban on militarystyle assault weapons, as well as a ban on high-capacity assault magazines, similar to my bill. As elected officials try to tackle this critical issue, poll after poll demonstrates increasing public support for these types of commonsense solutions. According to the
Washington Post, the majority of Americans, 52 percent, support more comprehensive laws that will keep Americans safe from gun violence, including 59 percent who support a ban on assault weapons. A Gallup poll found that 62 percent of Americans favor a ban on highcapacity magazines. The Pew Research Center found that 85 percent of Americans favor stronger background checks, and a CBS News poll said 92 percent favor universal background checks. Each of these polls is certainly encouraging. But in order to ensure these reasonable ideas can be enacted, the support reflected in these polls must translate into a demand for action by American citizens to our nation’s elected leaders. While those of you in Colorado can be assured that I will stand with the President and fight for these common sense measures to limit gun violence, I urge you to encourage your friends and family members across the country to contact their elected officials as well. I believe in the Second Amendment, and as a fourth-generation Coloradan, I know that gun ownership is a part of our great state’s history and culture. The common-sense reforms proposed by the president, myself, and many of my colleagues, would respect those rights, while working to prevent the horrific massacres that take the lives of too many of our citizens and too many of our children. I encourage my fellow Americans to join me in the call for responsible solutions that respect our Second Amendment rights, while taking action to prevent tragedies like the massacres in Sandy Hook and Aurora.
Support the Military Enlistment Opportunity Act By U.S. Rep. Mike Coffman ecently, I introduced the H.R. 435, Military Enlistment Opportunity Act. This legislation seeks to expand military enlistment opportunities and create a system that mutually benefits the armed services and individuals with temporary immigration status. Under my bill, individuals who have resided legally in the United States continuously for at least two years as well as the Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals would be permitted to sign up for military service alongside American citizens and lawful permanent residents. The DACA program was recently created by the Department of Homeland Security to give employment authorization to certain young people who came to the United States illegally as children. This legislation provides a common sense solution to help solve two nationally important issues. First, the bill provides a new group of willing, capable and skilled applicants to serve in the military. Second, it creates an opportunity for individuals with conditional immigration status to naturalize through military service, giving them permanent status subject to the same rights and obligations as natural born citizens. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, one of my goals for this legislation is to
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help the military ensure our national security goals are met by enhancing the available pool of qualified individuals. The military currently requires that recruits be American citizens or LPRs. However, we have a regrettable situation today where a majority of native born Americans can’t meet the standards for military service because of some disqualification: they are overweight, have a criminal record, a history of drug or alcohol abuse, don’t have a high school diploma, or they can’t get a passing score on the entrance exam. A 2009 study conducted by a group of retired military leaders entitled “Ready, Willing and Unable to Serve” concluded that 75 percent of young adults between the ages 17-24 do not qualify for military service. Additionally, there is a need to expand the pool of those eligible to serve because of the increasingly advanced technical requirements of the military. Rapidly growing areas like cyber warfare and ongoing analysts needs require the skills that foreign students studying in the U.S. can bring to the military. These visa holders bring abilities like critical language skills and advanced technical degrees that will increase the proficiency of our military. My legislation will also provide a path for young people in the newly created DACA program to be naturalized through military service. It makes sense that these individuals, who have the desire and ability to serve in the U.S. military, should be given the opportunity to do so. There have been more than 154,000 young people who have been accepted under the DACA program, and these
individuals should have the chance to honorably serve their country and become naturalized citizens. Current law states that any individual who legally enlists and serves in the military for one year is naturalized. During wartime, the naturalization is immediate. My bill would extend this benefit to DACA individuals. All enlistees, upon joining the military, incur an eight-year service obligation. Naturalization only becomes final and irrevocable after five years of honorable service. Therefore, it is important to highlight that the grant of immediate naturalization is subject to rescission if the individual does not complete the service requirements or is discharged under less than honorable circumstances.. Although there will be a larger debate this year about immigration and the necessary changes that must occur to ensure our legal immigration system is effective, the Military Enlistment Opportunity Act is smart legislation that takes a small but positive step forward by allowing certain individuals to serve our country in the military and earn U.S. citizenship. Moreover, this bill will aid our military by providing a larger number of skilled recruits to ensure our national defense capabilities are not diminished by a shrinking recruiting base. It should be an easy decision for my colleagues in Congress on the left and the right to support the Military Enlistment Opportunity Act. I am hopeful we can solve these problems together.
February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 7
Greenwood Village Mayor Ron Rakowsky (center) dropped in on the Tax Help Colorado preparation sessions held last Thursday at DeVry University, pausing to talk with tax site leader Sarah Hubbard, and DeVry accounting professor and Campus Director Lynn Ward.
Piton Foundation offers free tax prep in Greenwood Village By Jan Wondra As citizens begin to prepare federal and state tax returns, income-qualifying residents have a convenient Greenwood Village location in the south metro Denver area to get free tax preparation classes. Tax Help Colorado is offered by The Piton Foundation to Colorado residents who make less than $50,000 per year. The free preparation service will be held weekly until Feb. 28 in Greenwood Village, the only site in the south metro area. The location, DeVry University, is at 6312 S. Fiddler Green Circle, Suite 150E, where free tax preparation is held on Thursday evenings from 5 – 8 p.m. All work is provided by volunteers from the DeVry University accounting classes and their university graduates, while university computer support provides secure, advanced technical support. Greenwood Village Mayor Ron Rakowsky visited the Piton
Foundation’s DeVry University tax preparation location to see the volunteers in action helping numerous individuals. “The city is grateful that the Piton Foundation offers this important service in our city,” he said. “I believe the volunteers should be applauded for their service to others. Greenwood Village is not only a wonderful residential community, it also hosts a business community where tens of thousands of people come to work every day. Tax Help Colorado can help people toward a more secure economic future.” Running for the past several years, through a partnership with Colorado community colleges, Tax Help Colorado hosts 27 free tax sites across the state this tax season and is promoted by United Way. Most sites opened on Jan. 26 and will operate through the close of tax season. The effort is part of a twopronged effort to raise families from poverty toward economic security. According to census figures, about
30 percent of Colorado families are eligible for the program. Those interested in the Tax Help Colorado free service can call 211 to register. For more information about the program and what information to bring to the preparation session, residents can go to www.piton.org/ eitc The Piton Foundation also conducts a statewide public awareness campaign to inform Colorado residents about their potential eligibility for the Earned Income Tax Credit. The EITC, one of the nation’s most successful antipoverty programs, and other work tax incentives promote employment while providing valuable refunds to low- to moderate-wage earners who often struggle to meet their family’s most basic needs. In 2012, the 325,000 Colorado taxpayers who claimed the EITC received an average of $2,000 per household, a $660 million state-wide.
Third class graduates from Wellness Court
Bob Stutman
ACC hosts veteran DEA agent Arapahoe Community College will host “Pharmed Up: Prescribed by Doctors – Abused by Millions” with Drug Enforcement Agency veteran and certified drug educator Bob Stutman on Wednesday, Feb. 20. Stutman, who had a 25-year career as one of the country’s highest-profile DEA agents, will facilitate two discussions at the ACC Littleton campus. Both events are free and open to the public. At 2:30 p.m. in Half Moon - Room M1800, Stutman will speak about how communities can combat prescription drug/ substance abuse. Students and administrators from K-12 schools, as well as law enforcement agencies, are encouraged to attend. All groups are asked to RSVP in advance. At 7 p.m. in Waring Theater Room M2900, Stutman will discuss the dangers of prescription drug/substance abuse. For more information, contact the Student Affairs Office at student.activities@arapahoe.edu or 303-797-5668.
Submitted by Colorado Judicial Department The three-year-old 18th Judicial District Wellness Court graduated its third class this month when five participants were scheduled to complete the program. Graduates have participated in intense supervision, treatment and judicial oversight for more than 20 months. The Wellness Court has saved the Arapahoe County jail an estimated $444,000 based on the court’s current clients, by enrolling participants who otherwise would have stayed in jail. Additionally, more than half of the court’s participants have received suspended prison sentences. If each of the current clients successfully completes the program, it is estimated the court will have saved the state $3.5 million when accounting for potential parole and prison-term reductions. “The 18th Judicial District Wellness Court – as well as other problem-solving courts in this district and elsewhere – continue to prove themselves a vitally important part of our criminal justice system,” Chief Judge William Sylvester said. “These courts have made great strides in providing a variety of treatment options to those with mental health needs, sometimes options that would not have been available in prison.” The Wellness Court is supported by the District Attorney’s Office, public defenders, the
probation department, the Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office and Arapahoe Douglas Mental Health Network. “I feel honored every day to be part of a group of dedicated professionals who make this program work so well,” said Arapahoe County Magistrate Bonnie McLean, who presides over the Wellness Court. “It is extremely gratifying to see people who were struggling with mental health and legal issues graduate from this program with the promise of returning to their communities and families with a new vision for their lives and new tools to help themselves succeed.” The mission of the court is to reduce recidivism of offenders with mental illness, promote public safety and improve the quality of life for participants and their families with a costeffective integrated continuum of care through community resources. The court holds defendants accountable and assists offenders in achieving long-term stability to become law-abiding citizens and successful family and community members. The Wellness Court is one of more than 70 problem-solving courts operating in 17 of Colorado’s 22 judicial districts. Those include adult and juvenile drug courts, family/dependency and neglect drug courts, DUI courts, adult and juvenile mental-health courts, a veteran trauma court and truancy courts.
PAGE 8 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
A&E Briefs BLOOD DRIVES
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Bonfils’ Appointment Center at 303-363-2300 or visit www.bonfils. org.
Plaza Tower One Community Blood Drive
Feb. 21, 10 to 11:40 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m., 6400 S. Fiddlers Green Circle, Ste. 550., Greenwood Village.
Means-Knaus Partners Community Blood Drive
Feb. 27, 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Donations inside Bonfils’ mobile bus located at 7951 E. Maplewood Ave., Building 3, Greenwood Village.
Finding Your Female Ancestors by Leland K. Meitzler. 1 p.m., Buffalo Bill: Scout, Showman, Visionary, by Steve Friesen, director of the Buffalo Bill Museum and Buffalo Bill biographer, Lutheran Church of the Holy Spirit, 6400 S. University Blvd., Centennial. Call CJ Backus, CGHS President, at 303-355-0731 or visit www. ColumbineGenealogy.com.
Men in Business Breakfast
Feb. 21, 7:30 – 9a.m., John Elway Chevrolet, 5200 S. Broadway, Englewood. In the Meeting Room above the service department. Topic: Impact of the Golf Industry on our Community, presented by Ed Mate, Executive Director Colorado Golf Assoc. RSVP by Feb. 18, Chamber office, 303789-4473.
Emergency Medical Services Corporation Community Blood Drive
EVENTS
Donations inside Bonfils’ mobile bus located at 6200 S. Syracuse Way, Greenwood Village.
Feb, 15 – 16, noon – 5 p.m., new location at 1487 S. Broadway, Englewood. Stop by and say hello to Kelly Berger and staff. www. brushstrokesstudio.com.
Brushstrokes Studio-Gallery Feb. 28,10 to 11:40 a.m. and 1 to 3:30 p.m. Open House
CLASSES/ WORKSHOPS ‘Estate Planning & Tax: 2013’s New Normal’
Feb. 26, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., March 11, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., • Greenwood Village City Hall, Community Room, 6060 S. Quebec St., Greenwood Village. New 2012 Tax Laws and Changes, Medicare Tax changes, Inheritance, Gift and Estate Tax changes, Multi-Generational IRAs and more. Panera Bread lunch served. RSVP Required: Mhoward@cfiemail.com, or call 303-225-8386.
‘A Journey Through Afghanistan’
Feb. 25, 2 – 3 p.m., Bemis Public Library is located at 6014 S. Datura Street, Littleton. Through photography and watercolors explore Afghanistan with Londoner Brian Serff. Serff, a photographer, traveled with the Royal Geographic Society from England to Afghanistan to go on an expedition in the Hindu Kush mountains. At the program he will show both the photographs and the art that he has created. www.brianserff.com or 303-7953961.
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS Columbine Genealogy Meetings & Programs THEVILLAGER
Feb. 19, 9:30 a.m., Chasing Women,
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‘Heeere’s Dusty!’
Feb. 15, 1:15 p.m., Holly Creek Retirement Community, 5500 E. Peakview Ave., Centennial. Denver journalist Dusty Saunders presents stories of famous and not-famous characters from his 60-year career in newspapers and TV. To RSVP call 720-266-5611.
FUNDRAISERS
‘Delightful Dishes & Dreamy Getaways’
Feb. 22, 6 – 9 p.m., Brown Palace Hotel Ballroom, 321 17th St., Denver. Benefit for Volunteers of America and the Readiness Fund, presented by the Colorado Hotel & Lodging Association. Tickets online at www. coloradolodging.com.
Relay For Life of Centennial Kick Off
Denver Tech Center. Junior League of Denver fundraiser to support literacy. Keynote speaker Leigh Anne Tuohy, inspiration behind The Blind Side. All proceeds support the JLD’s focus, changing lives through literacy in the Denver metro area. Tickets at www.jld.org/?nd=the journey.
Service Trip Fundraiser
La Polleria Peruvian Style Chicken and St Mary’s Academy announce a Service Trip Fundraiser for the partnership between St. Mary’s Academy Middle School and the communities of Ollantaytambo and Urabamba. While there, students hear from local leaders, explore leadership styles and work alongside of community members to fund and complete service projects. The team works closely with a public elementary school - Virgin de Fatima - in Ollantaytambo and a secondary school - Colegio Valle Sagrado - in Urabamba. La Polleria is contributing $5 from every $25 certificate purchased from team members and leaders. The proceeds will help the team buy supplies for their service work. Contact mashley@smanet.org.
PANEL DISCUSSIONS ‘Gun Violence’
Feb. 19, 6:30 p.m., Seawell Grand Ballroom, Denver Performing Arts Complex, 14th and Curtis Streets, Denver. Moderated by Gov. John Hickenlooper. Panelists include Doug Lamborn, U.S. Congressman (R-CD5), John Morse, president of the State Senate (D-Co. Springs), Ken Buck, district attorney for Weld County, Rhonda Fields, Co. State Rep (D-Aurora), David B. Kopel, research director of the Independence Institute, Tom Deland, president of the Co. Association of Chiefs of Police. Co-sponsored by The Cell and The Denver Post. Tickets: ASERIO@ THECELL.ORG, 303-844-4000 ext. 7.
POLITICAL
State Rep. Spencer Swalm Town Hall
Feb. 28, 6 p.m. cocktails, 7 p.m. Keynote speaker and dinner, Hyatt Regency
Feb. 16, 1:30- 3 pm, Smoky Hill Library, 5430 S. Biscay Circle, Centennial. Mayor Cathy Noon will discuss the impact of Colorado’s Amendment 64, which permits a person 21 years of age or older to consume or possess limited amounts of marijuana. The amendment requires the legislature to enact an excise tax on wholesale sales of marijuana, the first $40 million of which is annually earmarked to the public school capital construction assistance fund.
CLEANING
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Feb. 24, 2 – 4 p.m., Maggie Smith’s Irish Pub, 6631 S. Peoria Street, Centennial. Stop by anytime from to learn more about Relay, meet the committee, enjoy great appetizers and register for the event.
‘The Journey: Honoring Our Past…Looking to Our Future’
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Senior Day at the Capitol
March 20, 8:30 a.m., State Capitol Building, 200 E Colfax Ave., Denver. Join Colorado Senior Lobby for free continental breakfast, an opportunity to talk with legislators, a look at issues facing Colorado seniors and a chance to network. For details visit www.csl.org or call 303-862-8555.
VALENTINE’S DAY
Parents’ Night Out at Wings Over the Rockies
Colorado Symphony Masterworks Feb. 15 – 16, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 17, 2 p.m., Boettcher Concert Hall, 14th and Curtis streets, Denver. Includes Weber, Williams and Brahms. Tickets 303-6237876 or www.coloradosymphony.org. ‘Hammers, Sticks and Strings’ Feb. 16, 2 p.m., Hampden Hall, Englewood City Center, 1000 Englewood Center Parkway. Includes David Colson, Quiet Pieces for Viola and Vibraphone and Kenji Bunch, Suite for Viola and Piano. Tickets www.englewoodarts.org or 303-806-8196.
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Tribute to Elliott Carter Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m., Hamilton Recital Hall Newman Center for the Performing Arts, 2344 E. Iliff Ave., Denver. Carter, who died last November at 103, was composing until shortly before his death, leaving work spanning more than seven decades. The Playground will present early works, most famous pieces and works written since he turned 100. Multi-media event, with video clips from interviews with Carter interspersed with the music. Admission: $10 for adults, and free for DU Faculty and Staff with ID, and free for any student with ID.
Search is on for Colorado’s outstanding senior volunteers
‘The Soul of Great Cities – Buenos Aires to Mexico City’ Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m., Littleton United Methodist Church, 5894 S. Datura St., Littleton. Showcasing the music of Latin American Composers, this concert will feature internationally acclaimed harpist Emily Levin performing the Ginastera Harp Concerto, the most exotic harp concerto ever composed. Soprano Tana Cochran will perform the sensuous Bacchianas brasiliaras #5 with cello orchestra. Tickets at www. littletonsymphony.org or at Gorsett Violin Shop, 8100 S. Quebec Street, B206 in Centennial, or at the door on concert night.
Feb. 15, 5:30 – 10 p.m. Children 5 -13 can experience a variety of activities from Pedal Planes (ages 5 to 10) to Flight Simulators (ages 7 and up). Wings will provide dinner from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Security check-in and checkout. Fee charged. Contact Jonna Green, Education Program Coordinator, 303-360-5360, ext.115, JGreen@WingsMuseum.org
WHAT’S NEW
This year, National Restaurant News’s highly anticipated topic was Breakout Brands, focusing on “today’s hottest emerging concepts — ones making their marks with their innovative experiences and cutting-edge cuisines.” Patxi’s was awarded breakout factors including being Healthful Bent, part of a Hot Culinary Niche, having an Innovative Approach to Food/ Operations, and serving Premium Products. Patxi’s is located at 3455 S. University Blvd., Englewood.
Now - March 31, nominations accepted. The winner in each state will receive $500 and one national winner will receive $5,000 to donate to the winners’ charities of choice. Sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care. To complete and submit a nomination form online for a senior age 65 or older who volunteers at least 15 hours a month, and to view the contest’s official rules, visit SalutetoSeniorService. com. Completed nomination forms also can be mailed to Salute to Senior Service, P.O. Box 285, Bellevue, NE 68005. For more information about Salute to Senior Service or the Home Instead Senior Care network’s services, call 303-389-5700.
Free admission on Buffalo Bill’s 167th birthday party Feb. 24, noon – 4 p.m., Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave, 987 Lookout Mountain Road, Golden. Includes Native American dancing, the painting and raising of a tepee, visits by a best-selling author and musical performances, plus the opening of Oskate Wicasa a special exhibit featuring the Native Americans who performed in the Wild West Show. Free cake and ice cream, costumed reenactors, and a buffalo-chip–throwing contest. For further information, call 303-526-0744 or visit www.buffalobill. org.
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MISC./CAREER TRAINING A I R L I N E S A R E H I R I N G — Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 800-481-8612. SYNC2 MEDIA CLASSIFIED ADS Buy a statewide 25-word COSCAN c l a s s i f i e d l i n e a d in newspaper s acr oss Color ado for just $250 per week. M a x i m i z e r e s u l t s w i t h o u r Fr e q u e n c y Deals! Contact this ne wspa per or call COSCAN Coor dinator Ste phen Her r er a, SYNC2 Media, 303-571-5117 x20.
February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 9
www.bestchamber.com 303-795-0142
Stories and photos submitted by Terry McElhaney
Excelsior Youth Center Gala to feature the Pointer Sisters
The Pointer Sisters are slated to perform at the Excelsior Youth Center’s Triumphant Faces Gala later this month in Denver, marking the organization’s 40th anniversary. Susan Kiely, who created the Women with a Cause Foundation, will be Excelsior’s recipient of its Triumphant Women award, when the event takes place on Friday, Feb. 22, at the Hyatt Regency Colorado Convention Center. Excelsior Youth Center is a safe haven that provides structured residential care to 150 troubled young girls, ages 11 to 18, at the organization’s dorm-like cottages in Aurora. Many of the girls placed at Excelsior have experienced abuse, failed adoptions and academic failures. Raised by a single mother who frequently changed jobs, Kiely attended 13 different grade schools. At the Gala, Kiely will share details of the challenges she endured as a young girl. Using her background in design and retail, Kiely has spent the last eight years developing Women with a Cause Foundation. The organization is dedicated to providing a living wage to women in India by teaching them how to sew. After they learn the trade and become employed, they can earn a living enabling them to move into an apartment and send their children to school. Two years ago, Kiely developed the WE Initiative, which helps lowincome single mothers in Denver attend Regis University and the University of Colorado to become registered nurses. The women also receive mentoring, financing counseling and parenting lessons. Excelsior Youth Center created the Triumphant Women award in
The Pointer Sisters
2008 to recognize women who have made the difficult journey of overcoming adversity to achieve greatness in their chosen fields. Triumphant Women honorees may have troubled backgrounds, dysfunctional families, experience with poverty or another extreme challenge. They are honored for beating the odds and becoming pillars of the community, displaying characteristics worthy of a role model to Excelsior girls. Excelsior’s individualized programming, designed specifically for the unique needs of every girl, gives these children hope for a brighter, safer future. Despite their troubled backgrounds, 90 percent of the girls successfully complete Excelsior’s treatment program and transition back to their families and communities. Excelsior also has been a proud investor in the South Metro Denver Chamber.
“Excelsior provides an incredible service to the community and a safe refuge for girls in the entire Denver metro area,” said chamber President and CEO John Brackney. “We congratulate Excelsior on 40 years of service.” For the second year in a row Triumphant Faces is co-chaired by Meagan Fearnow, Kasia Iwaniczko MacLeod and Lois Paul. Lannie Garrett, previous honoree, will serve as emcee. Entertainment for the evening is the world famous singing group The Pointer Sisters, who are also celebrating their 40th anniversary. Last year’s gala featuring Lyle Lovett generated more than $220,000 for Excelsior Youth Center, which provides a safe haven for troubled girls. For information on purchasing tickets or sponsoring the gala, visit www.excelsioryc.com.
Chamber’s annual silent auction underway
Employee wellness programs made easy at open house Feb. 21
Research supports the fact that employee wellness programs promoting increased physical activity, among other healthy lifestyle changes, do make a difference. The benefits are numerous and not only positively impact employees, but can also impact employers and their bottom lines. Research done by American Sports Data shows those individuals who exercise frequently stayed home from work on an average 2.11 days annually compared to 3.06 days for individuals who were sedentary. These statistics alone stress the importance of setting up corporate wellness programs. A two-year study to compare employee attitudes at companies participating in a comprehensive health promotion program found significant changes in attitudes toward organizational commitment, supervision, working conditions, job competence, job security, and pay and fringe benefits. Wellness programs demonstrate to employees that their health is important and that their employers know and care about this aspect. Statistics demonstrate that employees who exercise regularly and lead healthy life styles incur 31 percent lower health care costs than employees
EVENTS For a complete calendar of South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce events or more information, visit our web site at www.bestchamber.com or call 303-795-0142. Thursday, Feb. 14, 7:30 a.m.: Littleton Business Coalition Advisory Board Littleton Adventist Hospital, 7700 S. Broadway, Littleton 7:30 a.m.: Technology Advocates Group Discussion The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 3:30 p.m.: Give Your Business a L.O.V.E. “Massage” The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Friday, Feb. 15, 7:30 a.m.: Developing, communicating & Understanding Your Brand Experience... The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 11:30 a.m.: Energy & Sustainable Infrastructure Presentations The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Monday, Feb. 18 Chamber Offices will be Closed for President’s Day 7 p.m.: Save Lives & Sort Medical Supplies with Project CURE 10337 E. Geddes Ave., Centennial
The Chamber has begun its annual Casino Royale Silent Auction online. So far, 15 items have been listed with new ones being added daily. This is your opportunity to get great deals on airline tickets donated by CAP Logistics; wine gift basket with 2 bottles, glasses, and more from WhippleWood CPAs, a Gift Certificate for the best framing in town and Denver Nuggets tickets from Frame de Art II, a massage & facial package from Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa, 3 hours with a fun & fancy photo booth donated by Just ShutterUp, Rounds of Golf at a variety of South Suburban Courses, radio commercials and air time from MileHiRadio.com and much more! You don’t need to be a Chamber Investor to bid so check out the entire silent auction and bid at www.best chamber.com/auctionbids.
who live sedentary, unhealthy lifestyles. The Chamber’s Health & Wellness Initiative is making it easy for Chamber Investors with 5 or more employees to add a wellness program (or supplement a current one) as a benefit to their employees. On Thursday, Feb. 21, 4:30 to 6 p.m., the group will be hosting an Open House with wellness professionals to learn about what they do and why this type of program can increase efficiency and happiness in the workplace and they are offering FREE programming. Topics to be discussed include Aging Well, Worksite Wellness, Wellness Assessments, Motivation To Change, Nutrition, Relationships, Self-Esteem and Body Image, Violence Prevention, Mental Health and Wellness, Women’s Wellness, Men’s Wellness and more. The event will include opportunities to network with wellness professionals as well as door prizes. For more information on this event or the Chamber’s Health & Wellness Initiative, contact Sarah Houy of YOUnique Counseling Centers at 720-2224782 or call the Chamber at 303795-0142.
Tuesday, Feb. 19, 4 p.m.: Business Leaders for Responsible Government Advisory Board The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Wednesday, Feb. 20, 7:30 a.m.: An Hour with Representative Mike Coffmann The Chamber Center,
2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 8:30 a.m.: Networking 101 The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 11:30 a.m.: EDG Advisory Board Meeting The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 4:40 p.m.: Southwest Metro Business Alliance The Action Center, 8755 West 14th Ave., Lakewood Thursday, Feb. 21 Health & Wellness Initiative Open House The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Friday, Feb. 22, 7:30 a.m.: What is the State of Our Community? Arapahoe Community College, 5900 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton 11 a.m.: Leadership Program of the Rockies Annual Retreat The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Ave., Colorado Springs 3 p.m.: President’s Leadership Forum: Lisa D’Ambrosia of Minor & Brown The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 4 p.m.: Chamber Unplugged hosted by GammaBrite The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Sunday, Feb. 24, 8 a.m.: 2013 Fight for Air Climb Republic Plaza, 370 17th St., Denver
PAGE 10 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
Circus clowns and other entertainment options depict Night in the documentary film that will be shown Feb. 20 at the Madden Museum. The film and a talk with director Lawrence Johnston is the latest event scheduled by Film Festival Flix. Photo courtesy of Indie PR
Artistic film combines music, visuals to celebrate Night Final scheduled Film Festival Flix set for Feb. 20
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By Clarissa Crozier n Australian film will entertain the audience at February’s Film Festival Flix event Feb. 20. The documentary Night comes to the screen at the Madden Museum of Art. Night explores the universal nature of night in a dialogue between symphonic sound and images. This film is the new feature of writer, director and co-producer Lawrence Johnston who also created the documentary Eternity. Johnston will travel to Greenwood Village to participate in Red Carpet photos and talk with the audience about his film. “The night and nocturnal have always been something which have fascinated me,” Johnston said of his newest film. “It’s a universal thing to us all that we can’t escape. The film … is the same, no matter where you are in the world you can experience its beauty and emotion. Night is a mixture of the epic and the intimate.” Seeking to also create a positive view of night, Johnston said, “The ambition was to make a beautiful and cinematic film which would appeal to a wide audience. I wanted to stay away from the kind of material you see on television every
night of the week, which exploits and perpetuates fear of darkness and the night.” Though Johnston agreed that night is when people tend to spend time with family and friends, enjoy life and let their defenses down, the film also takes into account the other side of night’s darkness. “ … people are generally more fearful at night, scared of the dark or places and spaces, which in the daytime would not elicit the same responses,” he said. “People have a strong feeling of vulnerability at night whether conscious or not, whether awake or asleep.” Musical background for Night is an integral part of the film. Cezary Skubeszewski wrote the soundtrack. Skubeszewski has composed the music for numerous television films and advertising campaigns. Some campaigns have included the Sydney 2000 Olympics, AFL Finals and Melbourne Commonwealth Games. “The score is ambitious and unlike other scores where there may be a couple of themes which recur throughout the film, [Skubeszewski] created 20 pieces of music specifically for the film in various styles,” Johnston said. The music drives the narrative while providing emotional intensity. Much of the music was recorded in Poland with the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra in Katowice.
According to co-producer Lizzette Atkins, the choices of the “voices of the night” were designed to highlight people from all works of life: children, teenagers and adults across different cultures and life experiences. Speaking on viewer experiences, Atkins said, “We would like the audience to take away an experience from the film which works on a number of levels – a sense of wonderment, of new ways of seeing the world at night, of hope and of possibility. We live in a world in the stranglehold of fear and uncertainty. Night is a very positive film.” Night was winner of the Critics Prize at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival and Screen Music Award for Best Music for a Documentary in 2008. Tickets for the one-night showing are available online at www. filmfestivalflix.com or at the Madden Museum, 6363 South Fiddler’s Green Circle in the Palazzo Verde building, before the 7 p.m. show Feb. 20. The Mangia Bevi Café, adjacent to the museum, will open its doors for dinner before the movie and Red Carpet photos with Lawrence Johnston begin at 6 p.m. A filmmaker talkback and ticket holder reception follows the movie. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the Madden Family Charitable Foundation that supports education and the arts.
Cherry Hills Village passes nuisance dog code By Jan Wondra The second and final reading of a bill to amend Chapter 7 of Municipal Code regarding nuisance dogs, received unanimous council approval at the Feb. 5 meeting. Police Chief Michelle Tovrea and Animal Control Officer John Newhouse answered questions and comments prior to the vote. For a dog to be a nuisance, barking or a disturbing noise must continue for more than 30 minutes and be
clearly audible from an adjacent or nearby property. “This amendment brings our codes regarding animal behavior in line with the way we interpret the rest of municipal code. We expect our animal control officer and police officers to understand the issues and use discretion in interpreting the code. Animal behavior should be no different,” Tovrea said. The new code provides that to be considered a reportable
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February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 11
Armstrong to receive Lifetime Achievement Award The Leadership Program of the Rockies will present the second annual Legacy Award to The Honorable Bill Armstrong at LPR’s Annual Retreat Dinner on Feb. 22 at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. The Legacy Award is a Lifetime Achievement Award given in recognition of a distinguished individual who makes profound and long-term contributions to the Leadership Program of the Rockies. The individual leads an exemplary life by living the conservative ideals espoused by the program. “Under Sen. Armstrong’s insightful guidance, the Leadership Program of the Rockies continues to flourish and create leaders in Colorado and beyond,” said LPR President Shari Williams. “Sen. Armstrong’s spirit of entrepreneurship and principled leadership sets a shining example for
Bill Armstrong our alumni, who influence decisions at every level of government.”
Armstrong’s successes span both business and politics. He served six years in the House of Representatives and 12 as a U.S. Senator. Armstrong started or purchased four mortgage banking firms and was formerly chairman of Cherry Creek Mortgage Company, which grew 4,000 percent under his guidance. Previous positions include being the director of six public companies, chairman/owner/operator of 13 private companies and serving on the board of Campus Crusade for Christ for 17 years. Currently, Armstrong is the President of Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, the chairman of software developer Blueberry Systems and director of oil and gas drilling contractor Helmerich & Payne. LPR’s 2012 Legacy Award recipient was LPR founder Terry Considine, chair of the Bradley
Foundation and CEO of AIMCO, one of the largest apartment associations. The Legacy Award is presented to a single recipient each year at the LPR Retreat. Leadership Program of the Rockies is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization designed to identify, recruit and train Colorado’s future leaders. The purpose of LPR
is to discuss the principles of our founding fathers and encourage a discussion of public policy issues. LPR’s Annual Retreat is the conservative event of the year in Colorado, bringing over 700 people together. For more information about the LPR Annual Retreat, please visit www.leadership program.org.
Sotheby’s International adds Ernstsen Brennan Team
Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty, a leader in the sale and purchase of luxury residences throughout Colorado, has announced the formation of the Ernstsen Brennan Team of brokers. The new team is comprised of some of the metro area’s most outstanding residential real estate brokers, Joanne Ernstsen, Michael Ernstsen and Jane Brennan, who will have the opportunity to combine their local real estate expertise, extensive industry resources, and high tech marketing research tools to offer their clients tangible results with exceptional personal service. “In today’s world of smart phones, online access and tech-oriented clients, there is really no excuse for a broker to be unavailable,” Joanne said. “Our team combines three very experienced brokers who each have a special passion for this industry and helping people. We have the same values about real estate and servicing the client, which enables us to help each other and provide our clients with the 24/7, personal service they deserve.” Setting the bar for service excellence in luxury real estate, Joanne is a founder of Fuller Towne & Country Properties, which quickly achieved success and was sold in 2008 to become Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty. Joanne wanted to get back to the one aspect of the business she loves most…selling. As former president of the Denver Board of REALTORS, Joanne’s contacts in the industry are legendary.
Political Briefs K-12 funding measure defeated
Senate Democrats struck down a seemingly bipartisan bill sponsored by Senator David Balmer (R-Centennial) that would have prevented any K-12 education funding from being used to fund the expansion of Medicaid. “Governing is about choices and we need to make sure K-12 education funding always come first,” Balmer said. “This bill would have assured that K-12 education remains our top priority.” The bill, which was developed after meetings with parents and teachers, is titled the No Reduction in K-12 Education to Expand Medicaid. It would prohibit reducing funding to public and charter schools to finance the Governor’s decision to expand Medicaid to a newly eligible class of Coloradoans beginning in fiscal year 2014.
Michael Ernstsen, Joanne Ernstsen and Jane Brennan Her son, Michael a third generation real estate broker, learned at an early age about the commitment and devotion required to ensure the real estate process is smooth and enjoyable for the client. “For me, it’s more than selling homes,” said Michael, “It’s striving to exceed expectations and making dreams come true. It’s about people, their families, hopes and dreams. I believe in relationships based on trust, knowledge and expertise and it shows in all that I do for my clients.” Complimentary to the Ernstsen’s core business values is Jane Brennan’s work ethic, which is equally remarkable. Jane began her career in the 90’s and is an expert broker focused on Denver’s finer neighborhoods and communities.
Her experience and familiarity with market nuances quickly enables her to use FSIR’s extraordinary marketing and research tools to help clients narrow their choices and make informed decisions. “It’s always exciting for us when our brokers unite to form an unstoppable team. We are confident the Ernstsen Brennan dynamic will not only generate a higher standard and provide unparalleled service to our clients, but will contribute to the greater success of our firm,” says Scott Webber, President Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty. The EB Team of Joanne, Michael, and Jane, bring professionalism, integrity, and expert knowledge to today’s sophisticated real estate client.
Whenever the General Assembly expends state moneys that reduce the state’s share of total program funding for schools, funding for the newly announced Medicaid expansion would be prohibited. “This bill would have protected our education dollars and made sure not one dime is taken from K-12 to fund the new expansion of Medicaid under Obamacare,” Balmer said. “Making sure that we adequately fund kindergarten through twelfth grade public education is critical to our children and Colorado’s quality of life.”
Jackson Dinner. “We had an incredibly successful 2012 because of the work of so many people,” said Colorado Democratic Party Chairman Rick Palacio. “When we gather as a party in a few weeks, we will recognize several people whose contributions have been truly outstanding, and because last year was so exceptional, we will recognize three individuals for their work volunteering for candidates and campaigns.” Democrat of the Year: Sen. Lucia Guzman, Denver Volunteer of the Year: Ellis McFadden, Denver; Liz Geisleman, Jefferson; Rick Baer, Mesa Lifetime Achievement: Wellington E. Webb, Denver Rising Star: Rep. Leroy Garcia, Pueblo Chair’s Award For Service: The Honorable Ken Salazar
Colorado Democrats to recognize 6 at JeffersonJackson Dinner
The Colorado Democratic Party will recognize six individuals for their contributions to successful campaigns and progressive policies at the party’s March 2 Jefferson-
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THEVILLAGER
PAGE 12 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
School
School Briefs
Englewood campus underway
KUDOS Laura Silvestain of Centennial was selected to perform with the University of Evansvilles Wind Ensemble at the Indiana Music Educators’ Association annual convention in Fort Wayne, Ind. Silvestain is among the 46-member ensemble invited to perform convention, a professional development conference for Indiana music teachers.
Voter-approved buildings will be ready next year
By Peter Jones Englewood’s new $42 million combined middle and high school is starting to take shape at the site of the current Englewood High School on South Logan Street. Walls for the new gymnasium and kitchen facility have been among the first structures to go up. Much of the current work is centered on what will eventually be the middle school and common areas, such as science labs. High School students are scheduled to begin using part of the new building early in 2014 so most of the current high school can be demolished, with the entire project being completed by November 2014.
CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATES! The following area students have recently graduated from colleges and universities around the country:
Centennial
A construction crew works on Phase 1 of Englewood’s voter-approved combined high school/ middle-school. The old high school’s auditorium, field house and pool are being incorporated into the new campus. A second ballot question approved in the same 2011 election allowed a mill levy override to raise $1.5 million annually for the district’s daily operations, essentially offsetting state funding cuts. Photos by Peter Jones
Nicole Louise Conn received a BS, Apparel Merchandising, Design and Production from Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa. Danny E. Hammond recently received an MS in nursing from Samford University, Birmingham, Ala. Katherine Liebetrau received a Bachelor of General Studies in Liberal Arts and Sciences from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kans. Jenna Brooke Schlueter graduated from University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menomonie, Wis., with a BS in Hotel Restaurant and Tourism. Ryan Segura has earned a BS in Business Administration from the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Ga. Sara Sutherland received a BA with a major in Sociology & Human Services from Ft. Lewis College, Durango.
Englewood Chauncey Billups earned a BS in Leadership from Union Institute & University, Cincinnati, Ohio. Mark Visser graduated with a BA in English from Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, Calif.
Greenwood Village In 2011, district voters approved plans for Englewood Schools to sell bonds and raise property taxes to repay the bondholders. In addition to the $42 million campus, another $8 million is going toward renovating Englewood Middle School, which is slated to become the new home for Colorado’s Finest Alternative High School.
Bet ter
together...
Four Littleton Public Schools seniors have recently been named U.S. Presidential Scholar candidates. Pictured clockwise, from top: Erika Davidoff, Jake Mcknight, John Brock, and Catherine Patton. Photos courtesy of Littleton Public Schools
Joanne Ernstsen, Michael Ernstsen and Jane Brennan of Fuller Sotheby’s International Realty are pleased to announce an exciting new venture - The Ernstsen/Brennan Team - a truly unique real estate experience offering the highest level of success, service and experience. We look forward to working with you to achieve your goals the next time you are selling your home or purchasing a new one. ebteam@fullerproperties.com
Michael Ernstsen 303.589.9537
Joanne Ernstsen 303.888.1985
Jane Brennan 303.807.0135
Four LPS seniors named Presidential Scholar candidates Only 65 high school seniors in Colorado selected
Four Littleton Public Schools seniors representing all three LPS high schools have recently been named U.S. Presidential Scholar candidates. They are John Brock, Arapahoe High School; Erika Davidoff, Heritage High School; Jake Mcknight, Heritage High School; and Catherine Patton, Littleton High School. Participation in the national Presidential Scholar program is by invitation only and is based on exceptional scores on the SAT or the ACT, as well as outstanding academic achievement. Only 65 high school seniors in Colorado were named Presidential Scholar candidates for the
2012-2013 school year. Semifinalists will be named in late March from this pool of candidates. The Commission on Presidential Scholars will make its final selections in April. The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of President Johnson, to recognize and honor some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, creative and performing arts. Each year, as many as 121 students across the nation are named Presidential Scholars. An additional 20 students will be named Presidential Scholars in the Arts.
Michele deChadenedes received a BA in Visual Art from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kans. Maximilian Fuenzalida received a BA with a major in Exercise Science - Exercise Specialist Option from Ft. Lewis College, Durango. Andrew Gonzales of received an Associate of Arts degree from Oxford College, Emory University, Atlanta, Ga. Andrew McCallister received an MS in Geology from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kans. Littleton Kelsey Alsdorf received a BS in Education from the University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kans. Maegan I. Divecha graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant from Wichita State University, Wichita, Kans. Allexander McDaniel received a Bachelor of Science with a major in Chemistry - Biochemistry Option from Ft. Lewis College, Durango. Carmen Roth graduated with a BA in Political Science from Azusa Pacific University, Azusa, Calif. Justin Daniel Sieker received a Bachelor of Business Admin., Entrepreneurship, International Business from Baylor University, Waco, Texas.
FLEURISH
February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 13
fashion • philanthropy • home • health • lifestyle
Dionne Warwick headlines CU Hospital tower The Premiere By Glory Weisberg idding on a $100,000 necklace was hot and heavy at the University of Colorado Hospital Foundation benefit, “The Premiere.” It almost sounded like a Broncos game because the cheering and bidding was so electric and the piece designed and donated by Trice Jewelers owner Ralph Klomp eventually went for $72,000. The competition was between Premiere co-chair Pete Coors and Marilyn Travis, modeled throughout the evening by fellow co-chair Sharon Magness Blake. Even fellow co-chair Ernie Blake got into the bidding war, putting his tux jacket over his head as he raised his bidding arm. We were front and center, literally, as the 1,000 guests dined on a menu fit for an heiress or business mogul, served by none other than Centennial-based caterer Epicurean. The event “celebrates” the new 12-story inpatient tower, benefiting the Emergency Department’s doubled capacity, that will able the hospital to better handle the 70,000 emergency patients already landing on the hospital’s doorstep on the Anschutz Medical Campus every year. The self-led facility tour had black tied supporters belly to belly during the one-hour reception. This was an evening-long pure class party with dinner in a tent that had previously used for Sharon Magness’ wedding to Ernie Blake a few years ago. Knowing the forecast for flurries and freezing temperatures, planners started warming the tent for last Saturday night’s dinner on the previous Monday! It worked. As fellow co-chairs Claudia and Bob Beauprez took the stage, the former politician and event auctioneer said, “It’s nice to see this [hospital] vertically versus horizontally.” Better words were never said. In the same mood, Mrs. Blake said from the stage, “At our age we wanted a good emergency department.” The hospital got it and they hoped The Premiere would raise $1 million. Hospital President Bruce Schroffel got loud applause for noting that all 22 victims of last July’s Aurora movie theater shooting that were bought to the emergency department survived. The new doubled-in-capacity Emergency Department is being headed by Dr. Richard Zane. The facility is due to open April 7. Longtime pop vocalist Dionne Warwick was featured performer and she sang many of her past hits as some in the back of the massive tent stood and lined the aisles for a closer look.
B
gloryweisberg@comcast.net
Marilyn and Pete Coors
Claudia and Bob Beauprez
Hospital staff performs faux emergency room care.
Bruce and Lorrie Schroffel
Sharon Magness Blake and Ernie Blake
Co-chairs Steve and Shannon Bangert with Siobhan and Rick Zane and Kelly Bookman Photos by Glory Weisberg
Pop singer Dionne Warwick
Jeremy McCreary walked the corridors with his fun “vodka IV.” Carol and Nick Mathers with Phil and Corry Doty Tony Ruiz oversaw construction and the new horseshoe-shaped garden was named after him. His award was a red ribbon wrapped horseshoe from Denver Broncos’ mascot Thunder Peyton Manning $500 autographed football
PAGE 14 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
FLEURISH
Yip Foundation benefits school children in Jiangxi Province, China Arrupe receives large grant
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Arrupe Jesuit High School received a grant of $80,000 from the Daniels Fund to support nonprofit positions through its Corporate Work Study Program. Arrupe Jesuit expects at least 18 students to work at local nonprofit organizations during the 2012-2013 school year, enabling them to serve the community while gaining insight into nonprofit careers.
he Nathan Yip Foundation ushered in the Chinese New Year with a Celebration, Feb. 2, “A Celebration of Children,” at the Denver Marriott Tech Center. Lisa Gulyas and Paul Mesard chaired the event committee. Philanthropists Mark and Margaret Berzins were honorary chairmen. Guests were entertained by the Shaolin Hung Mei Traditional Chinese Lion Dancers, a first-ever visit with some of the many children supported by the Nathan Yip Foundation. Coming from China, Mexico and Colorado, the children showcased their nationality through fashion and song. “This has been quite an ordeal working with visas and travel sponsorships for these children,” said Jimmy Yip, foundation cofounder.“However, we think it is very important for some of the children, particularly from Mexico and China, to see what it takes to support their schools and orphanages.” Money raised supports the Nathan Yip Foundation work in the United States, China, Mexico and Africa. Linda and Jimmy Yip started the foundation following the tragic loss of their only son, Nathan, at 19 years old. The foundation has built seven schools and supports two orphanages in China; provides year-long support for an orphanage dormitory in Mexico, the first school for girls in Africa’s largest slum (Kibera) through Shining Hope for Communities, has donated funds to Colorado Heritage Camps, Colorado Uplift’s My Book Foundation, Asian Pacific Development Center, Denver’s Escuela De Guadalupe and has done work in Africa.
Fight for Air
Experience the climb of your life! Join the Fight for Air Climb and every step you take is a step in our fight for healthy lungs and clean air. The American Lung Association Colorado chapter has its Anthem Fight for Air climb, Feb. 24 at the Republic Plaza building in downtown Denver. This is a great way to burn off those calories. Call 303847-0280 or FightForAirClimb.org.
Virtual Catalina Island
Advocates For Children has a “Virtual Catalina Island,” Casino Night, Feb. 16 at the Sheraton Denver Tech Center. This is a Catalina wine mixer featuring wine and beer tastings, munchies, live music, a DJ for dancing and a silent auction with over $15,000 worth of items. Visit casawinemixer.com.
Opera Colorado launches fundraising campaign
Opera Colorado is launching a $1.2 million fundraising campaign to keep their plans for the remaining 2013 production season and the agency is reorganizing. The opera’s board is matching the first $350,000 until March 20. The “Stories that Sing: Be a Voice for Opera Colorado” includes several fundraising events to aid its restructuring plan for the 2013-2014, two-production seasons. That means postponing the planned premiere of The Scarlet Letter until 2015 to “give the company time to stabilize and raise the funds necessary to stage a full-scale premiere,” their letter stated. The changes are a result of slower than expected ticket sales last year and they are cutting expenses and “looking for staffing efficiencies,” in their words. Unaffected at this time is their seven month Young Artists
Nathan Yip is surrounded by children from the Nathan Yip School of Hope in China. Photo courtesy Nathan Yip Foundation residency program and other education/outreach. Opera Colorado’s Romeo and Juliet runs through Feb. 17 and Don Giovanni runs March 30-April 17. Reach them at operacolorado.org.
Wonderbound
Ballet Nouveau recently announced a collaborative dance change to Wonderbound for its reorganization of its school and professional contemporary dance company to “better pursue its mission and vision,” according to a Dec. 13 press release. The dance company is moving into a downtown facility as Wonderbound although its Broomfield BNC School stays put under its new name, The Colorado Conservatory of Dance. Wonderbound is reached at wonderbound.com.
Kempe announces new board members
The Kempe Foundation for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect has four new board members, April Jones, Michael Luby, Cheryl Preheim and James Herbert Williams. The foundation is located at the Gary Pavilion at Children’s Hospital Colorado on the Anschutz Medical Campus. Reach them at kempe.org.
Accolades and music
Rebecca Pedersen of Highlands Ranch placed second in the Metropolitan Opera 2013 Rocky Mountain Region auditions. On another musical note, Inside the Orchestra is the new name for the Junior Symphony Guild. Inside
SOUTHGLENN STADIUM 14
the Orchestra has an evening Orchestra for Adults, Feb. 28, at the Artwork Network at 878 Santa Fe Drive. Kids have been entertained by this nonprofit for several decades and now you can see behind the conductor’s baton in this special performance. Seats include food, wine and the music which has a light hearted theme. For info, call 303-355-7855.
Caruso Family Charities
Jerry Caruso created the Caruso Family Charities about five years ago to help families of children with cancer and other life threatening diseases. They report that to date they have raised more than $500,000. On March 2, the nonprofit has a Spring Gala at the Grand Hyatt Denver. For information, call 303-795-9467, visit carusofamilycharities.org or email joannemorgancharles@comcast.net.
Etiquette
Eating etiquette is often a highlight for benefits and it’s here that the evening is enhanced by tablemates or made barely comfortable. It’s considered very important to wait for all guests at a banquet table to be present before anyone sits down but where couples may not know anyone else at their assigned table this gets clumsy. You may not know precisely who else may join your table, if the table is completely assigned or whether some seats will remain open throughout the meal. The first thought that comes to mind in this awkward situation is a formal dinner where we got our table assignment when the doors were opened and proceeded to the
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table where salads were preset. We saw some of our tablemates standing within inches of the table yet having their backs to us-for a solid hour as they chatted. Others in the ballroom were beginning to eat after salad dressings were passed, yet there we sat, alone as the others continued ignoring their surroundings. So in consideration of those who are promptly seated and don’t know when to start eating we now wait for most of the table to be seated before diving into the first course of salads already dressed. To wait longer puts unnecessary pressure on ballroom wait staff that is told of a tight program and to be out of the ballroom when it starts. If your table includes a guest of honor we suggest you wait for the honoree, if possible. Often we are placed in another awkward situation when wait staff presents the first or next course for most but not all at a table. We suggest quietly bringing the matter to a nearby staffer who should promptly bring the remaining courses. When that fails, we suggest one of those without the food tell the others to go ahead, lest their course get cold. Vegetarians and others requiring special meals must place their special orders several weeks before the event so catering staff has time to order the items and prepare them promptly. Most of the time now we see guests sit down before verbalizing their needed change and expect staff to jump through hoops, ignoring the hundreds of others staff has to also serve. If you walked into our home and on the spot expected me to have a crystal ball and knew of the dietary needs, I’d be steamed. So this is a Golden Rule situation. Next week: which utensils, napkins and plates are mine and which are yours. gloryweisberg@comcast.net
Calendar items
may be e-mailed to gloryweisberg@comcast.net FEBRUARY 2013
16 Advocates for Children Catalina Wine Mixer, casawinemixer.com 16 Kappa Kappa Gamma Masquerade Ball for Harry Hahn Scholarships, denverkappa.org 19 Friends for Families First Education Luncheon, 303-745-0327 19 DCPA Saturday Night Alive Patron Party, sdearth@dcpa.org 20 Denver Ballet Guild Divas for Dance, info@denverballetguild.org 22 Excelsior Youth Center Triumphant Faces Gala, 303-693-1550, ext. 331 22 Fine Arts Foundation Citizen of the Arts Jubilee, 720-320-1614 23 Eating Disorder Foundation, 303-322-3373 23 Inter-Faith Community Services Nibbles and Sips, 303-789-0501 24 American Lung Assn. Fight for Air Climb, 303-847-0280 27 Colorado Collaborative for Nonprofits Open House, colorado collaborative.org 28 Junior League Denver Journey, 303-692-0270 28 Make-A-Wish Celebrity Waiter Dinner, 303-750-9474 28 Inside the Orchestra For Adults, 303-355-7855
March
1 Colorado Expression ICON Awards, 303-694-1289
FLEURISH
February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 15
Soup for the Soul a sumptuous success By Glory Weisberg Sumptuous soups, amazing appetizers and a salute to an Olympic athlete were on the agenda at the Porter Hospice and St. Anthony Hospice Soup for the Soul. A swarm of almost 800 people attended and there were 78 tables sold. The goal of raising $50,000 after dinner was raised in the blink of an eye, as the paddle raiser brought out the benefactors, beginning with John Horan who raised his arm to kick in $25,000. Followers within minutes put the take at about $60,000, with funds earmarked to building a chapel and enhancements to hospice patients’ rooms. The building campaign needed $1.2 million and they are half way there. Seventeen caterers from area eateries provided soups and some were so imaginatively presented the scents flowing throughout the massive Sheraton Denver Ballroom were nearly hypnotizing. Lauren Klopfenstein chaired this Soup for the Soul and she had a hard working committee composed of some long-term advocates, as well as some we met for the first
time. They provided a network of helpers during the impressive s i l e n t auction and helping g u e s t s find their sponsored tables, samplers sipped their way through the edges of the ballroom. Fruition Restaurant offered a Reissdorf Kolsch and smoked cheddar soup and mini bratwurst with an apple choucroute; the Rioja/Bistro Vendome/Euclid Hall chefs ladled out spinach velouté with hearts of palm, pine nuts and tarragon, paired with gruyere grilled cheese that was on so many plates it was clearly a winner. For those with a yen for spice, Root Down had carrot and Thai red curry soup. I couldn’t get enough of TAG’s roasted cauliflower soup, wondering if going back for seconds was bad etiquette. And on and on the samples went until Ward Lucas started the program.
T h e highlight of the evening w a s honoring Jeremy Bloom with the 2013 Award of Courage. Bloom is a two-time Olympian, three-time World Champion skier and former NFL player. He started the Wish of a Lifetime that grants wishes to seniors who overcame major challenges in their lives. And he loves his mom and grandmother. Bloom’s nonprofit granted 250 wishes last year alone. He said he learned to ski at the age of 3 when his grandfather threw candies down a ski slope and Jeremy skied after them. The “Night of Sparkling Promise,” as it was billed, benefited the two hospices and the Butterfly Program for sick children as well. The hospices need volunteers for patient homes, the Butterfly patients and their families, administrative jobs, to serve on the Hike for Hospice or work on
the Soup for the Soul planning committee. For information, call 303-561-5240. Chris and David Agnew, Tena Kautz, Jeannie and Kenneth Bennington, Myles Buber, Raeann Brown of Donor Alliance, Patricia Schoeninger, Nanette
Fishman, Matt, Julie and Karen Gonzales, Susan and John Madden, Patti Pisani, LaFawn Biddle, Holly Stabler, Susie Masterson, Jane Wilson and others were among supporters. gloryweisberg@comcast.net
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PAGE 16 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013 FLEURISH
Sweetheart Couple of the Year
A sweet story of love at first sight
By Scottie Taylor Iverson
These high achievers raise high-achieving children Jane Leslie grew up in Newark, Ohio, located 33 miles east of Columbus. After high school, she headed to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, became of member of Kappa Alpha Theta fraternity for women and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. Upon graduation, Washington, D.C., beckoned and she went to work “On The Hill” as a staff member for U.S. Rep. Clarence E. Miller. Stuart Siekmeier, a native of Colorado, grew up in southwest Denver and was pheasant hunting with his dad by age 5. He attended John F. Kennedy High School and chose the University of Northern Colorado where he received his Bachelor of Science in Marketing. His first job was a sales representative for a giftware company. In the meantime, friends had persuaded Jane, the Midwest girl, to move to Colorado. As a sales representative for Russ Berrie and Company, she attended a sales meeting and an arrow pierced her heart when she saw a handsome rep named Stuart Siekmeier seated at the table. He felt the same charge
they moved to Centennial. The of energy and their first date family expanded with was July 20, 1986, at Wellshire Jim born in January Golf Course for a game of golf. 1993, Scott in October Unfortunately, it began pouring 1994 and finally, Jenny rain, so they huddled under a in April 1997. huge tree instead and went to Both Jane and Stuart Saucy Noodle for dinner. Even are high achievers and that though they no longer work ethic has not been worked for the same lost on their children. company by this time, They are constantly they were practically immersed in their inseparable from children’s activities. that moment on. All three boys are They dated for two Eagle Scouts. Andy, and a half years a senior at Miami while “the planUniversity, earned ner,” as Jane calls that designation in Stuart, went to work 2009. Jim, a sophomore on making sure that cawho also chose his mom’s reer, home ownership alma mater, was celebrated and finances were in in 2010 and Scott, a seorder before launching their life together. nior at Cherry Creek High On Nov. 20, 1988, School, had his ceremony after church, the roin 2012. Andy and Jim are mantic Stuart asked in the same fraternity – Phi Stuart Jane to play winter Kappa Psi – and work for the same employer. golf at Wellshire. Siekmeier in his He took her to that Halloween costume at Scott is on the varsity swim team at Cherry same tree that had age 2 ½ years Creek and is involved sheltered them from the in DECA. Jenny, a sophomore at storm years ago and Creek, plays lacrosse, is active proposed. Ten days in church and National Charity later, he took her to League, a mother-daughter volundinner at Saucy teer organization that she enjoys Noodle and the with Jane. Jane’s career of sales in the inengagement ring box was surance industry spans over a dozen waiting at her years with over-achieving statistics. place setting. She credits Stuart with those opThe couple portunities. In 1999, he invited her was married at to assist with his Allstate Insurance Trinity United agency that meant she was required M e t h o d i s t to earn several insurance licenses. Church in She is currently an account exd o w n t o w n ecutive with Paychex, Inc., a New Denver on York-based $2.1 billion payroll, May 6, human resources, insurance and Jane Leslie 1989. The retirement services company. In adat age 9 months c o u p l e dition, she is a sustaining member shared their first home together in of Junior League, a member of the Washington Park. Their first son, Miami University Alumnae AssoAndy was born in March 1991 and ciation, Kappa Alpha Theta Den-
The Siekmeiers – Stuart, Andy, Jenny, Scott, Jane and Jim at Scott’s Eagle Scout ceremony
Stuart and Jane Siekmeier at Trinity United Methodist Church where they were married on May 6, 1989.
ver Alumnae Chapter and Cherry Creek Republican Women. Stuart has worked in the insurance business for 16 years, sold his Allstate Insurance agency in 2010 and has owned his independent insurance agency for three years. He enjoys the Colorado outdoors, running 10K races and trail runs such as the 2012 Pikes Peak Marathon and bike riding in events such as the Triple Bypass. Both Jane and Stuart have been involved in the Cherry Creek Schools system including booster clubs for boys’ and girls’ lacrosse, boys’ varsity swimming and served as DECA parent volunteers. Stuart
was also a youth football and baseball coach and assistant coach. They have, of course, been advocates for Boy Scouts of America Troop 373. The family’s church membership is at St. Andrew United Methodist Church where they also volunteer. When asked to what do they attribute the success of their marriage (which they have also asked each other) – their answer is God. “God is the foundation of our relationship and our marriage. We feel so blessed,” said Jane. “We have a lot of communication and a lot of good people that have been brought into our lives. The church has been such a support.”
A current photo of the neveraging couple that could be mistaken for collegians. Photos courtesy of The Siekmeier Family
February 14, 2013 • THE VILLAGER • PAGE 27
The gateway to the City of Englewood is graced by an abstract sculpture entitled the Keystone – Cornerstone created by Michael Clapper. The sculpture is at Kent Place on the corner of Hampden and University Boulevard. Photos by Tom Barry
Englewood public art sculpture embellishes Kent Place corner
By Tom Barry fter years of wrangling, the Kent Place multimillion dollar development is coming into place. Fresh Fare by King Soopers opened Dec. 12 and the most of the surrounding retail stores and the Patxi Pizza are open for business. Chase Bank has just opened a sparkling new facility to serve the community. And a massive below grade parking structure is being built to accommodate 300 luxury apartments for the Kent Place Residences. Instead of a cornerstone, this Englewood development has erected a unique sculpture on the northwest corner of Hampden and University. “The art piece at Kent Place is the result of an agreement between the city and Continuum Partners,” said Michael Flaherty, Englewood’s deputy city manager. “Continuum agreed, as part of the Planned Urban Development, to provide, at their sole expense, an entryway art piece for Englewood at the Kent Place Project.” Eric Chekal an executive with Regency spearheaded the effort. The soft pale yellow colored carved stone, entitled the Keystone – Cornerstone, embellishes Englewood’s east entrance into the city at the heavily traveled intersection. Noted Denver sculptor Michael Clapper designed and carved the Kansas limestone block at the Ironton Studio’s complex in “RiNo” – short for the River North, an art district in an industrial area just north of downtown Denver. Clapper, 60, presented one-foot high models of his concept to an Englewood art selection committee competing with seven other artists for the honor of adorning the city’s gateway. “The abstracted piece is my interpretation of a cornerstone and a keystone together,” said the artist whose most notable public art piece is a massive sculpture at the entrance to the University of Texas in El Paso. A 28-foot tall sculpture features the head of a pickaxe without the handle. “Most people here have not seen that piece in El Paso.” A keystone is the top part of an arch, the last thing that holds the very top piece of a masonry form, Clapper said. “Initially, I just thought of the new community and a small corner at the intersection, as the spot for the public art and I naturally thought of a cornerstone,” said Clapper. “The final piece of architectural form was the top – the last piece.” Clapper began with a raw stone weighing 11,000 pounds, costing $2,000 and shipped from a quarry in Kansas. Small natural occurring holes provide a texture on the 2x4x11 foot long solid sedimentary stone.
A
The stone was carved during a one-month period at Clapper’s studio utilizing various sized grinders with diamond tooling. The stone was carved in two pieces and is joined together by a large steel pin and structural epoxy. “If you look at the overall body of work, my abstract work is very minimal in form and is heavily influenced by Japanese and Scandinavian culture,” Clapper said.
City Council members Linda Olson and Jill Wilson participated on the review committee. Mark Falcone of Continuum and Cynthia Madden Leitner, the director of the Museum of Outdoor Arts, provided their expertise. John Grant, a public arts consultant, advised the group. Englewood residents Donna Schnitzer, Martha Kirkpatrick and Andrea “Andy” Mallen participated in the review process.
The soft pale yellow colored carved stone sculpture embellishes Englewood’s east entrance into the city at the heavily traveled intersection. Michael Clapper created the public art piece.
Local artist Michael Clapper, who created the sculpture at Kent Place in Englewood, poses with another creation from his RiNo art district studio. Photo courtesy of Michael Clapper
PAGE 28 • THE VILLAGER • February 14, 2013
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