elbert county news 1224

29-4120-47

E L B E R T C O U N T Y, C O L O R A D O

VOLUME 120 | ISSUE 47 | 75

December 24, 2015

ElbertCountyNews.net

A publication of

ELBERT COUNTY NEWS (USPS 171-100)OFFICE: 9137 S. Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 | PHONE: 303-566-4100

A legal newspaper of general circulation in Elizabeth, Colorado, the Elbert County News is published weekly on Thursday by Colorado Community Media, 9137 S. Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ELIZABETH, COLORADO and additional mailing of ces.

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Commissioners lengthy email blasts political foes

By Rick Gustafson Special to Colorado Community Media

In an email to county staff and offi cials, District 1 Commissioner Robert Rowland announced his decision not to seek a second

term on the Elbert County Board of County Commis-sioners.

I am at peace with my decision knowing that the political land-scape can and has changed, and that when the major-

ity of the decision-making board has different visions, different ideologies, then the majority of that board mandates the new di-rection, Rowland wrote Dec. 14. I am sad that so much of what we have accomplished is now, in my opinion, at risk with the new majority, but that is how the system works.

Rowland said that he is proud of the team the county has put together during his three years as commissioner and that he is com-mitted to working hard during his remaining tenure in offi ce.

I will vigorously defend against anyone, including my fel-low Commissioners, who reject or diminish the important role these employees have played in turning this county around and who are critically important to keeping us moving forward, he wrote.

In his two-page email, Row-land also promised to remain out-spoken on the issues important to him, including water, infrastruc-ture and planning. He also took the opportunity to double down on his position against his politi-cal opponents.

I will continue to speak against that small, radical and loud group whose mission seems to be only to disrupt and dam-age the county in ways that are dishonest and that simply do not make sense. And, I will do my best to oppose and expose anyone who collaborates with these destructive persons, including my fellow Commissioners, he wrote.

Rowland said that he would eventually endorse and support candidates for the election of commissioners in Districts 1 and 3 in the November 2016 elec-

Rowland

Rowland wont seek re-election

Rowland continues on Page 7

Walmart is site of yearly distribution of presents

By Rick Gustafson Special to Colorado Community Media

After spending the evening clearing nearly two feet of snow from the Walmart garden center, volunteers from the Eliza-beth Fire Department and their families were back at work just after sunrise on Dec. 16. Bundled up against single-digit temperatures, they unloaded bicycles and unpacked bags fi lled with donated toys for the Elizabeth Firefi ghters Com-munity Foundations Christmas for Kids Program.

We have partnered with Walmart, and we take over the garden center, said Fire Marshal Kara Gerczynski, and the parents are allowed to get two or three toys per child.

What began in the mid-1990s with a couple of fi refi ghters buying presents for the children of a few Elizabeth families has grown into an annual tradition. This year, the Christmas for Kids program is anticipating putting toys under the trees of around 150 children in 40 Elbert County families.

It is what started our foundation, which is really what runs it, Gerczynski said.

Originally, fi refi ghters shopped for each child individually, sorted the toys and delivered them; but with the growing popularity of the program, that became impractical, so off-duty fi refi ghters staffed the garden center at Walmart from 8 a.m. through 7 p.m. on Dec. 16, keeping the distributions open late so

that parents working days were able to pick up gifts.

When it got to be over 100 kids, it was really tough to do at the station, so we changed our system, Gerczynski said.

Over the years, the Christmas for Kids program has grown beyond simply fi lling stockings and putting toys under the tree. The initiative has evolved into a partnership among the Elizabeth Fire-fi ghters Community Foundation, the EC Riders Motorcycle Club, and the Ameri-can Legion in Elizabeth to provide food and clothes for the families.

Since the middle of October, the American Legion Post 82 has been col-lecting food to fi ll three-box packages capable of feeding a family for several days. Additionally, each qualifying family received a frozen turkey on Dec. 16 along with everything they needed to prepare a full Christmas dinner.

In addition, cash donations to the foundation help ease the burden on families for clothes.

They come inside, and depending on how many kids are in our budget, they usually get somewhere between $25 and $35 to spend on clothing for the kids, Gerczynski said. Thats where the monetary donations at the Chili Dinner help us.

In addition, Gerczynski praised the help the program receives from the EC Riders Motorcycle Club.

The boxes up at Walmart, EC Riders puts those up there and orchestrates all that. We just go up and pick up the toys, so without them we would be lacking toys, she said.

Retired re ghter John Ognie stacks bicycles. Photos by Rick Gustafson

Fire ghter/paramedic Frank Fields helps set up toys.

Fire ghters, donors make holiday bright

When it got to be over 100 kids, it was really tough

to do at the station, so we changed our system.

Kara Gerczynski, Elizabeth Fire Marshal

Drive continues on Page 7

December 24, 20152 Elbert County News2

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Family Owned, Family Run

Ann Macari Healey

The sound of the tinkling bell drifts across the parking lot, growing louder the closer you get to the King Soopers en-trance.

There it is, a red bell so tiny it nestles neatly into Nathan Grays hand.

Happy holidays, he says, as a customer walks by.

Merry Christmas, guys. Have a good day.

A hand drops a dollar bill into the red kettle.

Thank you, he says, with a wide smile that seeps into his eyes. Have a blessed day.

Gray, 33, a fl oppy Santa hat on his head, is a bell ringer for the Salvation Army. Just about every day, from the week before Black Friday until Christmas Day, he rings his bell at the front of a King Soopers, enticing contributions from those who cross its threshold with a grin, a greeting, a compliment, a blessing.

Hes one of about 700 bell ringers in the Salvation Army Intermountain Division, which covers Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and eastern Montana. Theyre crucial to the organizations bottom line the holi-day kettle drive is the years largest dona-tion generator.

This is by far the most effective way to raise money, spokesperson Tahreem Pa-sha-Glenn says. Its the most recognized fundraiser in the country.

This holiday season, in an ironic twist, an improving economy has created a shortage of bell ringers, which means a number of locations have no kettles.

The empty spots are worrisome, Pasha-Glenn says, because when it comes to providing services needed by families and individuals struggling simply to survive, every dollar matters.

Every single dollar that goes into the kettle, she says, stays in the community.

Thats why a good bell ringer is a gift.

The ones who return year after year, seasoned by experience, well, theyre fan-tastic, Pasha-Glenn says. We see a dif-ference in the amount of donations they bring in. We so appreciate our bell ringers.

The bell ringers are comprised of mostly volunteers, but also include some such as Gray for whom its seasonal work.

And for Gray, the job is a joy.The father of two, who lives in Aurora,

stumbled into it three seasons ago when he was looking for work through a temp agency. He had such a good time hes made it a regular capstone to his working year, which generally consists of jobs as a gar-bage collector and landscape worker.

This year, hes also a driver, picking up and dropping off other bell ringers in his area. The pay isnt much about $9 an hour, he says but the work is about much more than the money.

Theres the challenge to persuade ev-eryone who walks by to give, whether its a quarter or $20 or $150.

He makes it a point to greet people twice, once as they walk in the store, once as they walk out. His friendly demeanor,

ever-present grin and happy spirit make it diffi cult not to acknowledge him.

I didnt forget you, says a woman on her way out, pulling money from her purse.

Thank you so much, Gray says with a smile. We appreciate your donation. Have a blessed day.

His smile widens: I planted the seed when they came in. I watered it and it grew.

There are the stories about one in 30 people, he estimates, has a story to tell about how the Salvation Army made a dif-ference in their lives.

This older guy, Gray says, his wife tells him to put money in the kettle any time he walks by one, because the Salva-tion Army helped him when he was young and poor.

The pregnant lady, he remembers. She was pregnant and didnt have any money and they bought her a car.

Vietnam vets tell him how the Salvation Army gave them long johns.

On this afternoon, Diana Johnson, 84, stops her shopping cart to look through her purse, then places money into the kettle.

My husband is a World War II vet, she says. He said they were the best at taking care of the GIs.

Right behind her is Tanya Kukral, 59, who donates every time she passes a kettle.

My grandfather was on the front lines in World War I, she says. He said the Sal-vation Army was the only one who helped the infantrymen on the front lines. He said, When you give, you give to the Salvation Army ... My grandpas been dead for a long time, but his words stuck with me.

You see, Gray says. So many stories.And then theres the steady interaction

with people Gray may never see again it moves him to make sure these chance en-counters are positive and sincere.

Its really small, but I could be the only person to tell that person Merry Christ-mas, he says. I might be the only one who asks How are you? or says Have a good day . . . Its a really small thing, but it could go a long way with a certain person.

And sometimes, the small thing hap-pens to Gray.

Seems like I see you here every day, says John Beall, 72, as he walks toward Gray. Can I get you something to drink at Starbucks?

Gray smiles. Ill take a small Chai.When Beall returns, he shakes Grays

hand. Thank you, he says.Grays smile spreads wider.One day, he hopes, his kettle will be the

lucky recipient of an unexpectedly gener-ous donation.

Like one of the gold coins worth thou-sands of dollars that have sporadically ap-peared in kettles across the country.

Ive been hoping for that this year, Gray says.

Or like the $500,000 check an anony-mous donor dropped in a kettle in Minne-sota in late November.

Thats got to be a world record, he says.

But, until then, hell settle happily for the $150 check someone slipped into the kettle the day before. And, actually, any do-nation will do just fi ne.

His face glows: I just got $20 in there.Nathan Gray fl ips the red bell back and

forth. The tinkling drifts across the parking lot.

Everybody who hears it knows what it means.

Time to give the gift of the season: Goodwill to all.

Ann Macari Healeys award-winning column about people, places and issues of everyday life appears every other week. She can be reached at [email protected] or 303-566-4109.

Nathan Gray, a bell ringer for the Salvation Army, loves the stories he hears as people give to the kettle. Courtesy photo

Hear the bell? Its the sound of goodwill DO YOU WANT TO BE A BELL RINGER?

To volunteer as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army, go to volunteer.usawest.org and enter your ZIP code or imsalvationarmy.org and click on volunteer.

Elbert County News 3December 24, 20153

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with people Gray may never see again it moves him to make sure these chance en-counters are positive and sincere.

Its really small, but I could be the only person to tell that person Merry Christ-mas, he says. I might be the only one who asks How are you? or says Have a good day . . . Its a really small thing, but it could go a long way with a certain person.

And sometimes, the small thing hap-pens to Gray.

Seems like I see you here every day, says John Beall, 72, as he walks toward Gray. Can I get you something to drink at Starbucks?

Gray smiles. Ill take a small Chai.When Beall returns, he shakes Grays

hand. Thank you, he says.Grays smile spreads wider.One day, he hopes, his kettle will be the

lucky recipient of an unexpectedly gener-ous donation.

Like one of the gold coins worth thou-sands of dollars that have sporadically ap-peared in kettles across the country.

Ive been hoping for that this year, Gray says.

Or like the $500,000 check an anony-mous donor dropped in a kettle in Minne-sota in late November.

Thats got to be a world record, he says.

But, until then, hell settle happily for the $150 check someone slipped into the kettle the day before. And, actually, any do-nation will do just fi ne.

His face glows: I just got $20 in there.Nathan Gray fl ips the red bell back and

forth. The tinkling drifts across the parking lot.

Everybody who hears it knows what it means.

Time to give the gift of the season: Goodwill to all.

Ann Macari Healeys award-winning column about people, places and issues of everyday life appears every other week. She can be reached at [email protected] or 303-566-4109.

December 24, 20154 Elbert County News4

CALENDAR

Editors note: Calendar submissions must be received by noon Wednesday for publication the following week. Send listings to [email protected]. No attachments, please. Listings are free and run on a space-available basis.

EventsFood Pantry

Kiowa Creek Food Pantry is a distribution site for the State of Colorado TEFAP food program. Food is distributed monthly to low income individuals/families that qualify. We also distribute low income senior food boxes for the state; those 60 and older may qualify for a monthly supplement. If you are

in need of food assistance or know someone who is, we may be able to qualify you for one of these programs. Call the food pantry for more informa-tion at 303-621-2376, or come by from 8:30 a.m. to noon Tuesdays; we are located in the Fellowship Hall at 231 Cheyenne Street, Kiowa.

Christmas Tree Lot

Get the perfect Christmas tree at Boy Scout Troop 780s tree lot, open from 5-9 p.m. weekdays; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays, at the south corner of Meadows Boulevard and Ambrosia Street, Castle Rock. The Scouts will sell fresh-cut trees, wreaths and garland.

Soles4Souls Collection

Drop off new and used shoes through Christmas at the Re/Max Alliance office of agent Cathy Howrey, 18551 E. Mainstreet, Suite 2A, Parker. Soles4Souls is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting poverty through the distribution of shoes. Go to www.soles4souls.org/get-involved/

Community Blood Drives

A number of community blood drives are planned in the area. For information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Bonfils Appointment Center at 303-363-2300, unless otherwise noted. Go to www.bonfils.org. Upcoming blood drives are: Sunday, Dec. 27, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., New Hope Presbyterian Church, 3737 New Hope Way, Castle Rock.

Commitment Day 5K Fun Run/Walk

Life Time Fitness in Parker kicks off the New Year with a part run/walk, part festival that includes an expo with numerous vendors on race morning. Run starts at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1 at Life Time Fitness, 9250 Crown Crest Blvd., Parker. Event is open to runners and walkers of all levels and abilities. Members and nonmembers welcome. Children 12 and younger may register for free with a registered adult. Go to www.commitmentday.com/colorado/parker-aurora. Group training avail-able at www.lifetimerun.com/group-run-training/co-commitment-day-5k-2016-parker. Contact Heather Crosby at [email protected] for additional information.

January bike race will be part of Winterfest celebration

By Shanna [email protected]

RaceCO.org will partner with the town of Castle Rock to host the newly created Cold War Classic cyclocross race to com-plement the downtown celebrations of Winterfest on Jan. 2.

Utilizing the multitude of open spaces and natural terrain running along the Plum Creek Trail, the race will start at Castle View High School. Participants will experience multiple obstacles as they ultimately twist and turn their way down to Festival Park. Upon finishing, participants will be able to take part in all festivities and merriment provided at Winterfest in downtown Castle Rock.

Bryan and I worked for the past six weeks on this race, which would normally take six months to a year, said Kyle Sipes, who co-founded RaceCO.org with Bryan Derstine.

Cyclocross is a form of cross-country bicycle racing usually done in autumn and winter.

Bringing the race to Winterfest is about

making an impact, Sipes said.Theyre just trying to give back to the

community and say, Were Castle Rock and were a little bit better than everyone else and we believe in that as well, he added.

RaceCO.org started just over a year ago with races on Wednesday nights. Going into year two, the duo aims to create a fam-ily-based atmosphere with races available for every skill set.

Its a great way to kick off the new year, Sipes said.

Castle Rock Mayor Paul Donahue will be participating in the fat bike race.

We thought it was a great idea for him to be a leader the grand marshal, Sipes said. Getting somebody whos that big of a figure in the community to participate in our event were psyched about it.

Winterfest will also feature a Resolu-tion Run, a 5K presented by StrideMob; ice

carving; and other outdoor activities. Live entertainment, food, vendors, a petting zoo and adult beverages will also be avail-able.

This is the first year that weve stepped up our events between Starlighting and New Years, Donahue said. We think its going to be a great addition to what weve started doing this year. We hope to see events like this not only during the winter, but throughout the year as well.

The Cold War Classic cyclocross race will be Jan. 2. Courtesy photo by Multicopter Ware-house

Cyclocross race rolls into Castle Rock

Elbert County News 5December 24, 20155-Dispensary

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Commitment Day 5K Fun Run/Walk

Life Time Fitness in Parker kicks off the New Year with a part run/walk, part festival that includes an expo with numerous vendors on race morning. Run starts at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1 at Life Time Fitness, 9250 Crown Crest Blvd., Parker. Event is open to runners and walkers of all levels and abilities. Members and nonmembers welcome. Children 12 and younger may register for free with a registered adult. Go to www.commitmentday.com/colorado/parker-aurora. Group training avail-able at www.lifetimerun.com/group-run-training/co-commitment-day-5k-2016-parker. Contact Heather Crosby at hcrosby@lifetime tness.com for additional information.

carving; and other outdoor activities. Live entertainment, food, vendors, a petting zoo and adult beverages will also be avail-able.

This is the fi rst year that weve stepped up our events between Starlighting and New Years, Donahue said. We think its going to be a great addition to what weve started doing this year. We hope to see events like this not only during the winter, but throughout the year as well.

The Cold War Classic cyclocross race will be Jan. 2. Courtesy photo by Multicopter Ware-house

Nancy Gripman: 1926-2015

By Chris Michlewicz cmichlewicz@colorado communitymedia.com

Imagine a person who leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets. That was Nancy Grip-man.

Gripman even impacted peo-ple shed never met through tire-less volunteering that spanned decades. And even though the world lost Gripman Dec. 1 at the age of 86, her legacy and fruits of her labor are fi rmly intact, carried on by the many people Gripman rallied for whatever cause she was working on.

She would call after she knew me and would say, I have a favor to ask, said Genese Sweeney, a close friend of Gripmans since 1997. I knew immediately it was going to be something for some-one somewhere, and she wanted me to be involved.

Thats how most people knew Nancy Gripman as a sweet, yet spunky woman with a heart

for anyone who needed help. She was affectionately referred to as the Energizer Bunny, Sweeney said.

Gripman helped start the Parker Task Force food bank, was instrumental in historic-pres-ervation projects, helped local children learn to read, and sent school supplies to the other side of the world through the Rotary Club of Parker. She also helped

start a Douglas County chapter for Women Infants and Children, which assists with food and nu-trition, and endlessly collected eyeglasses for the less-fortunate on behalf of the Lions Club.

Outside of donating her time to a cause, Gripman was bound-lessly adventurous. Suzanne Pletcher, Gripmans daughter, remembers zipping off to ran-dom locales across the country

as a child.We never went to theme

parks, Pletcher said. We would go to a national park. We were always tromping through the woods. It was a wonderful way to grow up.

When Gripman was in failing health beginning last summer, Sweeney was one of two close friends at her bedside. A plan to give Gripman a tour of the

new, spacious Parker Task Force headquarters in August was postponed because Gripman wasnt feeling well. A month later, however, her friends and family members made it happen. What happened next was a moment that warmed the hearts of those who bore witness, Sweeney said.

The minute we got her in there in the wheelchair, it was just like magic, said Sweeney, who was inspired to volunteer for the task force in 1997 after Gripman asked for help from members of her church. She was her old self. She was so thrilled to see that, what it had become and how many more (people) it was serving every day.

Sweeney is among those who will speak at Gripmans memo-rial service at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 9 at Parker United Methodist Church, 11805 S. Pine Drive.

The memorial service is open to anybody who knows her, Pletcher said.

Gripman is survived by her husband, Bill, four children and numerous grandchildren.

Nancy Gripman teaches a young boy how to read in 2012. File photos

Nancy Gripman speaks to a crowd last year during a ground-breaking ceremony for the new Parker Task Force headquarters.

Longtime Parker resident leaves lasting legacy

Douglas County school was alleged target of two girls

By Alex DeWind [email protected]

After the news of two class-mates accused of plotting to kill students and staff at Mountain Vista High School in Highlands Ranch, senior Katie Pickrell said students are coming together to raise awareness about Text-A-Tip, a reporting system that she said essentially saved peoples lives.

It was a really brave thing to do, Pickrell said.

Students are using the hashtag tellsomeone following the ar-rests of two 16-year-old female students.

Both teens were detained Dec. 12. One of the girls appeared in court the morning of Dec. 17, but no formal charges have been fi led against her or the other teen.

The girl who appeared in court is being held without bond, and a judge has ordered a mental-health evaluation and ordered her not to have contact with the other defen-dant. Her next court date is Jan. 5.

No information was avail-able on when the other teen was scheduled to appear in court.

A possible charge against the girls includes conspiracy to commit fi rst-degree murder, the Douglas County Sheriffs Offi ce said in a news release. The two are being held in secured facilities.

The students names have not been released because they are juveniles. If they are charged as adults, more information will be released to the public.

Sgt. Lori Bronner, spokeswom-an for the sheriffs offi ce, was un-able to release details of the threat. But the sheriffs offi ce called it credible and acted immediately, according to the news release.

At a news conference Dec. 16 at the Douglas County School Dis-trict administration building in

Castle Rock, Superintendent Eliz-abeth Fagen assured the commu-nity that safety is the districts top priority.

we know the gravity of what has happened in the past and we are committed to doing every-thing we can do to make sure our staff and students are safe in this district, she told a room crowded with members of the media.

Citing the ongoing investiga-tion, Fagen said she couldnt re-lease details of the incident. But, she said, a credible threat in my view is a serious threat.

Earlier, Bronner said the girls had made a blanket threat against the school and everyone in it.

The threat was reported to the sheriffs offi ce through Text-A-Tip on Dec. 12. The girls intent was to harm students and staff at Moun-tain Vista during the week of Dec. 14, Fagen said.

Text-A-Tip is a reporting sys-tem that allows high school stu-dents to convey concerns about safety, drugs and other issues anonymously.

Fagen emphasized the impor-tance of the districts partnership with law enforcement and fami-lies as to why the threat was suc-cessfully disrupted.

No one safety strategy is guar-anteed, she said, and the district has layers and scaffolding of secu-rity measures to ensure safety.

Fagen also highlighted the courage it took for the anonymous teen to inform authorities.

They took what would feel like a risk as a teenager of sharing some very important information with adults, she said.

Highlands Ranch residents also expressed their gratitude on social media to the anonymous tipster.

To the child who alerted au-thorities of the two girls who have recently been arrested at Moun-tain Vista High School, you have my sincerest gratitude, Monique LaPlante Janowiak wrote on Face-book. You may not realize it now, but you are a true hero.

So to the child who did the most courageous thing you could, Anne Marie Tarjan Rob-bins also wrote on Facebook, I applaud you, praise your amazing strength and self-esteem.

Mountain Vista Principal Mike Weaver alerted parents about the incident in an email Dec. 15.

The school district released a statement Dec. 17 from Weaver, whom they said was not available for interviews.

In valuing a true inclusive school community where rela-tionships and an accepting culture and climate are core philosophies, we can never forget the incredible good that takes place at Mountain Vista each and every day, Weaver wrote. The unfortunate events of this past week have spotlighted a community that cares deeply about their families, their school and each other. I could not be more proud of Mountain Vista.

Weaver said the staff and secu-rity team have done a strong job of keeping the school safe and secure.

And senior Tyler Felske said he does feel safe. Mostly, he said, stu-dents are shocked.

I think everyones taking it seriously, he said. We just dont know how to react.

Douglas County School District Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen spoke about the alleged Moun-tain Vista threat on Dec. 16. Generally, students are really good people, she said, and do good things. Behind Fagen is Rich Payne, the districts director of school safety and security. Photo by Alex DeWind

Tipster praised for helping prevent threat

December 24, 20156 Elbert County News6-Opinion

Michael Norton

WINNING WORDS

Craig Marshall Smith

QUIET DESPERATION

Dan Hettinger

FAITHMATTERS

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VOICESLOCAL

Is Christmas celebration appropriate when we have troubles and sorrow? Is it possible?

This is the most wonderful time of the year. The lights, the music, and hustle and bustle of shopping warm our hearts and brighten our spirits during this time of year when the nights are longest and the coldest days of the year are still ahead.

We dream of a white Christmas and promise that we will be home for Christmas. The mere imagination of be-ing together with family, going to church, singing the car-ols and lighting a candle helps to change our mood and causes the worst Grinch to bring cheer with extravagant expressions of generosity.

But this most wonderful time of year has severe chal-lenges too. There are suicides and increases in addictive behavior. Loneliness feels worse. When things go wrong, like fatal accidents, terrorist attacks, illnesses that dont get better, births that come early and present profound

complications, then the celebration is interrupted by emotionally numbing shock and pain. Instead of cel-ebrating, we wonder how we can go on, since life will be never be the same again. Those who are absent because of death or crisis are dearly missed.

Stress increases too. The traffi c, travel and spending turn up the anxiety levels. When money does not go far enough or if there is an end-of-year layoff, car problem or broken relationship, a sense of well-being or ability to enjoy pleasure can be stolen from us.

Ive been journeying with grieving people and others going through painful life changing circumstances. To-gether we search for a way to celebrate so a small glimmer of hope, joy, peace and love will shine in our dark plac-es, the way that the light of a candle simply and warmly shines at a Christmas Eve service.

Grief, sorrow can have role in holiday

I am sure that you have seen the lists too, you know the kind I am talk-ing about, right? Those lists that pro-vide us with The Best States to Live In, The Best Doctors, The Best Diets, The Best Restaurants and the Best anything and everything.

These are very helpful lists when we really need or want that kind of infor-mation. And I am sure a lot of research goes into each list before it is pub-lished, and I also believe that opinion plays are a large role in who and what makes those lists. Unfortunately I also know that marketing dollars some-times infl uence or persuade the pub-lisher to include certain items, compa-nies or people on those lists.

The majority of us do not play a part in publishing those Best of lists; most times we are simply consum-ers of the information. Other times we have participated in a survey and actually contributed to the results as we share our thoughts and opinions to help generate or infl uence the out-come.

Now what if we were to create our own Best of list? What if we were to think of all the Best things we can say or do to make a positive differ-ence in our lives or the lives of others? We might have a Top 10 List of actions

and attitudes that can brighten our day or infl uence the outcome of those around us in a better way.

What would a few of those lists look like? Here are some thoughts to help you get started.

The Best Words to Include in My Daily Vocabulary: love, kindness, ex-cellence, forgiveness, family, purity, humbleness, success, achievement, winner, beautiful, compassion, hope, encouragement and faith.

The Best People I Know: my mother, my father, my husband, my wife, my daughter, my son, my best friend, my boss, my employees, my associates, my coach, my partner, my grandparents, my teacher, my stu-dents, my trainer and my bartender.

The Best Things I Can Do Today: give someone a hug, smile, laugh, love, pray, exercise, volunteer, listen, be patient, be kind, be compassionate, learn, read, stay positive, stay focused, be proactive, meet someone new and try something new.

I am sure you can come up with your own Best of the Best list all on your own. The challenge is that we typically just wait for someone else to provide us with a list or publish a list that tells us what the Best of the Best is. When it comes to our personal

preferences and opinions, we already know what would be on our list, dont we? We just dont take enough time to create those lists and understand their importance and relationship in our day-to-day lives.

Try it with me, either get some pa-per and write them down or create your Best of the Best lists on your computer, phone or tablet. You will be amazed at how good it feels to capture your thoughts and feelings about who and what makes your Best of lists.

How about you? What are some of the Best places, companies, restau-rants, hospitals, schools that would make your list? Who are some of the Best people you know, love and re-spect? Who are some of the Best doc-tors, lawyers, teachers, police offi cers, nurses, respiratory therapists, friends and relatives that you know? I would love to hear all about it at [email protected]. And when we create and publish our own Best of the Best lists, it really will be a better than good week.

Michael Norton is a resident of Cas-tle Rock, the former president of the Zig Ziglar Corporation, a strategic con-sultant and a business and personal coach.

Best thing to do: ink of the best

I have no plans to see The Force Awak-ens.

Maybe if I lost a bet.I would rather watch a This Old House

trilogy.Obviously I dont get it.Movies that are held together by special

effects are of no interest to me. None.I prefer down-to-earth human conun-

drums.I have no desire to escape except from

fi lms like this.The following is huge, and The Force

Awakens will make a ton of money.We all make choices, and almost any-

thing can be defended.Bruce Willis, Ben Stiller and Adam

Sandler sell tickets. To whom and why? Its inexplicable to me.

I know that I am an exception. I have not been in a movie house this century.

My preferences are documentaries. And well-written scripts. Not space monkeys.

I suppose if you were hooked on these fi lms when you were a kid, you could take the kid that was still in you to watch the lat-est installment.

I never got hooked. Thankfully.Please save your emails.This isnt an indictment. Its simply a re-

minder that not everyone is on board.When I read about related theme parties

my skin crawls.But maybe they are fun.One of my therapists asked me what I did

for fun.

I said, I dont have fun.

But of course I do.I enjoy this

writing as much as anything in my life. One word after another, chosen out of a lifetime of caring about one word after another.

Do you have a writer in the family? Encourage them.

Fifteen minutes ago, I didnt have an idea for a column, until I spotted an ar-

ticle about The Force Awakens.It was ranked in the Top Five fi lms of

2015, and it hadnt been released yet.Star Wars, Star Trek and those pirate

movies are distant to me.And, man, am I glad.Of course, I am not exempt from guilty

pleasures.College football for one.I was in Michigan Stadium when Michi-

gan played Northwestern in 2015.My father attended Michigan.He worked at the Mens League, in the

cafeteria.He told me that on game days, they let

everyone go in time to see the kickoff.That was in the late 1930s.So college football is in my DNA.

You cannot deny your DNA for very long.I saw some of the Flash Gordon serials

when I was a kid, and I was entertained by the primitive special effects.

Rocket ships were kind of like mario-nettes. I could see the strings.

Acting was over the top.Dramas were contrived.I may have been hot for Flashs girlfriend,

Dale Arden.Flash was played by Buster Crabbe. What

a great name. Say it out loud: Bust her crab.

Crabbe had been an Olympics gold med-al winner in the 400-meter freestyle swim-ming event.

He was very handsome and looked like someone who would be named Flash.

For some reason, there was no carry-over for me from Flash Gordon to Star Wars.

I was a fi lm minor in college. We were only shown one outer space fi lm, and that was George Mlies 1902 A Trip to the Moon, which is exquisite and recommend-ed to all of you who will queue to see The Force Awakens.

In the infancy of cinema, Mlies was in-genious. The special effects are stunning.

Like I said, I would rather watch Bob Vila spackle a crack.

But have a good time, and try to stay awake.

Craig Marshall Smith is an artist, educa-tor and Highlands Ranch resident. He can be reached at [email protected].

Skipping Star Wars no big deal

Hettinger continues on Page 7


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tion, but stopped short of endorsing fellow Re-publicans Scott Wills and Chris Richardson, who announced their candidacies in November and December, respectively.

He did, however, say, This will include my en-dorsement of someone other than the current Com-missioner in District 3, Larry Ross who is also a Republican.

It had been rumored that Rowland might be inter-ested in a run for the state House of Representatives, but he said on Dec. 14 that he has no immediate political ambitions and no intentions to run in 2016 for the District 64 state House seat held by Republi-can Rep. Tim Dore, of Elizabeth.

In closing, Rowland wrote that being a county commissioner in Elbert County has been the greatest honor of his professional life and advised his fellow citizens to remain vigilant.

I will forever be grateful, and I will be there to as-sist in any way I can in a non-elected role, he said.

Continued from Page 1


Rowland


Hettinger

DriveFamilies signed up for the programs at the Eliza-

beth Fire Department through Dec. 11, but it was hardly an absolute deadline.

We keep some spares here in case we have some stragglers come in, Gerczynski said. Usually the people who come in this week are the ones who are very reluctant and realize, Im going to be in trouble this year, so we hate to turn those people away.

The program has some repeat customers, but Gerczynski said that they have new people who need help each year.

Even though we do have some regulars, the newer people who come in who really need the help make it all worthwhile. This is not a program that is supposed to sustain them through their Christmas every year.

The Elizabeth Firefighters Community Founda-tion relies solely on donations, and no taxpayer money is used to fund its programs.

OngoingDouglas-Elbert County Music Teachers Association meets at 9 a.m. every first Thursday at Parker Bible Church, between Jordan and Chambers on Main Street. All area music teachers are welcome. Call Lucie Washburn, 303-814-3479.

The Elbert County Sheriffs Posse is a nonprofit volunteer organization that is part of the Elbert County Sheriffs Office. As volunteers we support the Elbert Coun-ty Sheriffs Office, all law enforcement in our county, and the community at large. For more information or a membership application, go to www.elbertcountysheriff.com/posse.html, or contact Dave Peontek at 303-646-5456.

Elizabeth American Legion Post 82, a 96-year veterans association supporting veterans, their families, their survivors and the community, meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at the Legion Post Hall at South Banner Street and Elm Street in Elizabeth. All veterans are invited to attend these meetings to learn of their eligibility for membership in the National American Legion Organization.

The Elizabeth Food Bank, 381 S. Banner in Elizabeth (next door to Elizabeth Pres-byterian Church) needs to let the public know that we are available to help anyone who needs food. The hours are Friday 12:30-3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9-11:30 a.m. Other times by appointment.

Finding Our Way Together, a brand new group for anyone who is alone, left out, picked on or overwhelmed by life. Since it is just forming, the group will evolve to fit the needs of the participants. Group will meet at 10 a.m. Saturdays at 34061 Forest Park Drive, in the lower level of Elizabeth Family Health. Leaders are Mary, 720-638-9770, and Karen, 303-243-3658, and both welcome phone calls. Group participation is free, and building is accessible.

Kiowa Creek Food Pantry is a distribu-

tion site for the State of Colorado TEFAP food program. Food is distributed monthly to low income individuals/families that qualify. We also distribute low income se-nior food boxes for the state; those 60 and older may qualify for a monthly supple-ment. If you are in need of food assistance or know someone who is, we may be able to qualify you for one of these programs. Call the food pantry for more information at 303-621-2376, or come by from 8:30 a.m. to noon Tuesdays; we are located in the Fellowship Hall at 231 Cheyenne Street, Kiowa.

Lawyers at the Library, a free legal clinic for parties who have no attorney, will be offered from 6-9 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month at the Elizabeth Library, 651 W. Beverly St. Volunteer attorneys will answer questions, help fill out forms and explain the process and procedure for the areas of family law, civil litigation, criminal defense, property law, probate law, collections, appeals, landlord-tenant law and civil protection orders. Walk-ins are welcome. Everyone will be helped on a first-come, first-served basis.

Mystery Book Club meets at 9:30 a.m. the first Saturday of each month at the Simla Public Library. The group enjoys talking about a variety of mystery authors and titles. We also periodically host a Colorado author during our meetings. Everyone may join us, and registration is not required. Visit the Simla Branch of the Elbert County Library District at 504 Washington Avenue, call 719-541-2573, or email [email protected].

The Outback Express is a public transit service provided through the East Central Council of Local Governments is open and available to all residents of Cheyenne, Elbert, Kit Carson and Lincoln counties and provides an economical and efficient means of travel for the four-county region. Call Kay Campbell, Kiowa, at 719- 541-4275. You may also call the ECCOG office

at 1-800-825-0208 to make reservations for any of the trips. You may also visit www.outbackexpress.tripod.com. To ensure that a seat is available, 24-hour advance reservations are appreciated.

Overeaters Anonymous meets from 10-11 a.m. and from 7-8 p.m. Wednesdays in the Sedalia Room at New Hope Presbyterian Church, 2100 Meadows Parkway, Castle Rock.

Seniors meet in Elizabeth every Monday at 11 a.m. for food, fun and fellowship at Elizabeth Senior Center, 823 S. Banner St. Bring a dish for potluck on the first Monday of each month. Other Mondays, bring a sack lunch. Bingo, games and socializing. New leadership. Call Agnes at 303-883-7881 or Carol at 303-646-3425 for information.

Therapeutic riding. Promise Ranch Therapeutic Riding in Parker offers free therapeutic riding for developmentally disabled adults and children. Scholarship money is available for Douglas County residents to provide 10 therapeutic riding lessons. Call 303-841-5007 or visit www.promiseranchtherapeuticriding.com.

Sky Cliff Adult Day Center Support Groups: Stoke Victors meets from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the second and last Wednesday of each month. Lunch is provided. Contact Sue Parson, 303-814-2863. Evening Stroke Victors meets from 6-7:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month. Cookies and coffee provided. Contact Sue Parson, 303-814-2863. Caregivers Support Group meets from 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesdays. All groups meet at Sky Cliff Adult Day Center in Castle Rock. Contact Sky Cliff at 303-814-2863. Visit www.skycliff.org.

VFW Post 10649 meets monthly at 8:30 a.m. the first Saturday of every month at 24325 Main St., Elbert. Go to www.vfwpost10649.org. Contact Alan Beebe at 303-435-2560 for questions.

We welcome event listings and other submissions. Please visit our website, click on the Submit Your News tab and choose a category from the drop down menu. One of my most valued colleagues in

the field of care and grief ministry, Karen Schoenhals, writes:

To successfully grieve, not sinking into bitterness and despair, is to allow room in our hearts for both joy and sor-row to exist, to be experienced simulta-neously, and to be openly acknowledged together. And the beauty of Christmas is Emmanuel, God with us, who lost every-thing when He came into this dark world to save us to walk with us through our dark path of grief and give us joy.

If our celebration is merely a commer-cial event full of decorations, spending, entertainment and gatherings, as nice as they may be, it is does not reach the deepest parts of our soul where joy and sorrow mingle.

But when our celebration comes from a deeply spiritual experience, born in us by the humble birth of the Christ child into a world of darkness, conflict and

confusion, then we realize the source of all this celebration came specifically to meet us in our dark times.

This awakening in me has enriched my Christmas celebration. Planning a Blue Christmas service (email me for more information) made it clear that even when we have trouble and sorrow, our activities might be more subdued and tears may be present, but by making room for the Christ child in the deepest, loneliest and most painful place in our souls, celebrating at Christmas is pos-sible and then it is the most appropriate.

Dan Hettinger is the congregational care pastor at Mountainview Christian Church in Highlands Ranch and author of Welcome to the Big Leagues Every Mans Journey to Significance. Dan also represents The Denver Hospice to the faith community throughout Denver. You can email him at [email protected].

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Competitive dancers from Castle Rock academy performed on Dec. 12

Last-minute makeup

touch-ups, costume changes and dancers scrambling to hit their spots for their next dance were just a few of the scenes at Castle View High School on Dec. 12. Competi-tive company dancers from Boutique Dance Academy in Castle Rock held the second annual Winter Snowcase to not only show off their skills, but also raise money for their upcoming competition season. The dancers hoped to build support and raise awareness for competitive dance.

PHOTOS BY SHANNA FORTIER

Dancers at the Boutique Dance Academy range in age from 3 to 18 years old. At the showcase, they perform competi-tive dances in ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop and tap.

Leah Lamb puts the nishing touches on her makeup before the show. Lamb is a member of the teen company competitive dance team.

Boutique Dance Academy dancers wait in the wings for the show to begin. The performance/fundraiser was put on by the booster club to raise funds for the upcoming competition season.

Alli Burgess stretches backstage before she dances. Burgess is a member of the senior dance company.

GOING BACKSTAGE

Roxborough, Denver among areas checked for Audubon

By Sonya Ellingboe [email protected]

More than a century ago, Frank M. Chapman, an early Audubon member, started the fi rst Christmas Bird Count in 1900 as an alternative to the traditional Christmas Side Hunt, in which hunt-ers competed to see who could kill the greatest number of birds and mammals in a day. Now the CBC events have interna-tional participation as citizen scientists attempt to track migratory birds as well as those that stay in one place year-round. The count has gone international.

In 1901, 16 state-level Audubon Societ-


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Celtic Nights features some of Irelands nest international dancers and Celtic musicians.

CELTIC NIGHTSSpirit of FreedomFebruary 5 and 67:30 p.m.

At The Schoolhouse

BIG BUBBLECIRCUSJanuary 1610:00 a.m.Join us for giant soap bubbles and family-friendly silliness.

Jan. 15 - 31Dont miss thisfantastical family favorite.

DISNEYSMARYPOPPINSThe Broadway Musical

COMEDY ANDCOCKTAILSAt The SchoolhouseFebruary 138:00 p.m.Enjoy a drink and havea laugh in this hilarious new series featuring Jordan Doll.

WONDERBOUNDRock Ballet withChimney Choir &Ian Cooke BandFebruary 142:00 p.m.Garrett Ammons celebrated ballets set to the music of David Bowie and Queen are hitting the stage once more.

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The Littleton Museum boasts a col-lection of about 60,000 objects related to Littletons history used or worn by a particular person, used in a business or in the home, used by government or in-dividuals. From that collection, the cura-tor has selected 125 items, ranging from clothing and toys to a parlor organ, an old Phillips radio, a washing machine, a wed-ding dress and the Littleton Independent editors typewriter, as Littleton celebrates its 125 years. Dont miss the carefully writ-ten booklet, available at the museum en-trance, that tells a little story about each item. Recommended for visiting family, antsy children and anyone from 4 to 80. On a warm day, the living farms are also won-derful. The Littleton Museum is located at 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton. 303-795-3950. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Holidays excepted. Admis-sion is free.

Also, while at the museum, see the an-nual Own an Original art exhibit in the

adjoining gallery, which displays inter-esting work by Colo-rado artists.

Authors submissions sought

The Colorado Authors League, es-tablished in 1931, is accepting sub-missions for its an-nual book awards, to be announced at the groups yearly awards banquet in the spring. The

deadline is Jan. 31, 2016. Open for mem-bers with works published in 2015 in 14 categories, from books in print to ebooks, fi ction to nonfi ction, poetry, feature writ-ing and blog entries. Details are found at coloradoauthors.org/awards/cal-writing-awards-submission-form.

Historical lecturesThe Tesoro Foundation/Tesoro Cul-

tural Center, based at Morrisons Fort Res-taurant, offers a series of historic lectures through fall and winter. Some are only at the Fort (6 p.m.), while many are given fi rst, on the same Sunday, at the Denver Central Public Library at 1:30 p.m. for free. The sessions at the Fort are accompanied by a special dinner and cost $60 for Tesoro members and $68 for nonmembers. Next will be on Jan. 10: Micacious Clay Pottery (with a cooking demonstration) by Debbie Carillo (Fort only). Following that, Steven Frissen of the Buffalo Bill Museum will speak about Okate Wicasa the Ameri-can Indians who performed with Buffalo Bills Wild West Shows. He will lecture at both places. Information/reservations: 303-839-1671, TesoroCulturalCenter.org.

Reminder to artistsDeadline for entries to the Littleton

Fine Arts Boards 2016 Eye of the Cam-

era photography competition is Jan. 8, through CaFE, CallforEntry.org. The juror is Gary Huibregtse and the exhibit dates are Feb. 19 to March 27, 2016. Information: 303-795-3950.

Taos paintersNewly opened at the Denver Art Mu-

seum: A Place in the Sun: Southwest Paintings of Walter Ufer and Martin Hen-nings, who both found an artistic home in Taos, New Mexico. The exhibit will be the topic for the annual Western American Art Symposium, held at the DAM in con-nection with the National Western Stock Show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 6. There will also be a related four-part course: Ex-amining Art of the Southwest, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Sundays Jan. 10, 17, 24, 31. Register at denverartmuseum.org. Parking is on 13th Avenue just west of Broadway in downtown Denver.

GOING BACKSTAGE

Sonya Ellingboe

SONYAS SAMPLER

Museum is great family getaway over holidays

Roxborough, Denver among areas checked for Audubon

By Sonya Ellingboe [email protected]

More than a century ago, Frank M. Chapman, an early Audubon member, started the fi rst Christmas Bird Count in 1900 as an alternative to the traditional Christmas Side Hunt, in which hunt-ers competed to see who could kill the greatest number of birds and mammals in a day. Now the CBC events have interna-tional participation as citizen scientists attempt to track migratory birds as well as those that stay in one place year-round. The count has gone international.

In 1901, 16 state-level Audubon Societ-

ies joined together in a loose national organization and by 1903 established the fi rst national wildlife refuge in the U.S. Pelican Island in Florida.

In 1998, Audubon held its fi rst Great Backyard Bird Count and 14,000 partici-pated. There is local participation each year in the suburban area.

In December 2015, local birdwatch-ers, whether beginner, intermediate or advanced, are invited to join in one or more local bird counts, providing data that allows researchers and conservation biologists to study the long-term health and status of bird populations, according to the societys Warbler newsletter.

The October issue of Audubon Maga-zine, in its State of the Birds report, predicts that based on decades of this data, by 2080, 314 species will be threatened or

possibly extinct, due to loss of habitat and climate change. The article made frequent reference to the valuable CBC data that is processed through the Cornell University Department of Ornithology.

There are three different dates planned in the metro area, although the Jan. 2 Douglas County Christmas Bird Count at Roxborough State Park is the most locally oriented, with many different degrees of diffi culty to the walks, beginning at 7:30 a.m. Register by Dec. 30, 303-973-3959. A chili supper will be held at the end with the compilation at the Visitor Center. (A $2 contribution is requested.) State park entry fee required.

On Jan. 1, the Denver Urban Christmas

Count will cover numerous locations, a 15-mile-diameter circle, with varying degrees of diffi culty. The best way to access a schedule, and information on which leader to follow, is to visit denveraudubon.org and look at the most recent edition of the Warbler, where there is a single-page chart that ranges along the South Platte and Cherry Creek, the Botanic Gardens, the University of Denver, Wash Park, Rocky Mountain Arsenal. One is instructed to call leader Hugh Kingery, 303-814-2723, to hook into this major effort.

To get involved with the Denver Audu-bon Society and its Nature Center at the south edge of Chatfi eld State Park, visit the groups website, Denveraudubon.org.

Bird counts take ight as holiday tradition

Heisman runner-up sets pace for brothers Valor Christian grad McCaffrey has record-breaking seasonat Stanford University

By Jim Benton [email protected]

Valor Christian junior quarterback Dylan McCaffrey recalls when he and his brothers would sneak onto the Country Club at Castle Pines golf course to play football.

Dylan, older brothers Max and Chris-tian, and younger sibling Luke each had their own dreams while running on the manicured grass near their home.

We used to play together all the time, Dylan said. We lived on a golf course, and when we were growing up wed all go out on the golf course in a big grass area and play. The maintenance people never liked it. Wed always get kicked off, but we were out there almost every day playing football.

Christians dream almost became real-ity last weekend. The Stanford sophomore running back and former Valor Christian standout was a Heisman Trophy fi nalist.

He spent time in New York City, and did myriad interviews, but was the runner-up when Alabama running back Derrick Henry was announced as the Heisman winner on Dec. 12.

McCaffrey, who broke Barry Sanders NCAA record this season with 3,496 all-purpose yards, garnered 290 fi rst-place votes (32.4 percent) and 1,528 overall. Henry won with 1,832 points and 378 (42.2 percent) fi rst-place votes. Clemson sophomore quarterback Deshaun Watson was third with 1,165 votes.

Henry gained 1,986 yards in the same number of games but had just 139 more yards rushing than McCaffrey, the Pac 12 Offensive Player of the Year, and didnt come close to matching McCaffreys all-purpose yardage.

There was a Heisman watch party at the Valor Center Performance Hall in Highlands Ranch, with 180 supporters in attendance to view the awards program.

All the predictions I heard were pretty much carried out, said Jon Kozan, who has been Valors football statistician since the school opened and has watched all

four McCaffrey brothers play. These days, people kind of know where people are going to vote. I heard it said best, Christian probably should have won, but Derrick Henry was who people voted for.

Brian Bonn is now a photography teacher at Valor, but he used to have Christian McCaffrey in his Valor Sports Network class.

To have this many people out to support Christian in his Heisman run is a blessing, he said. To watch Christian up on stage, he hasnt changed a bit. Hes every bit as humble as he used to be, and hes every bit as loving as he used to be. Just to see him up there is such a blessing for us as a school.

Its the fact they had question marks around Christian. They wondered if he would be as dynamic as he was when he was in high school. He proved to the entire state that he is that good.

Valor Athletic Director Jamie Heiner believes that Christian McCaffrey, Colora-dos high school career all-purpose record holder, has brought attention to Valor and Colorado.

I actually felt like we were at the Heis-man presentation, he said. It was awe-some, but it was a bummer to see him not take it home and not win the Heisman. But just to be able to celebrate him as a young man and who he is as a person is spectacular, and to see the support he has gotten from faculty, staff, students and coaches is tremendous.

It does a lot for our school to highlight the talent, but really as a state it does shine a light on Colorado because there are a lot of great football players that play in Colorado and we dont get the recogni-tion that other states do.

Christian not only had support at Valor Dec. 12, but also in New York City. Valor coach Rod Sherman was on hand at the awards ceremony along with Christians parents, Ed and Lisa, and his brothers.

Max is a senior wide receiver at Duke and was a state champion at Valor state champion. Dylan led the Eagles to the state championship on Dec. 5. Luke is a Valor freshman who was a quarterback for the junior varsity team and played some defensive back on the varsity. And,

December 24, 201510 Elbert County News10-Sports

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DrywallServing Your Area

Since 1974303-841-3087 303-898-9868

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HELP WANTEDElizabethElizabeth

Full Time Receiving Clerk

APPROXIMATELY 40 HOURS PER WEEK

Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 Lbs. Must have common knowledge of computers. Good people skills Must work well with Others & Public

You may pick up an application at Elizabeth Big R Store

Or online at bigronline.com. Please take applications to Moisheen Kalla (Store Manager)

or email the application to [email protected]

Elizabeth Store

Requirements

If you are this person we offer:Above average wages, 401K/Employee Discounts

Paid Vacation/Insurance Programs

650 Beverly StElizabeth, Colorado

Run a2 column x 2 ad

in 18 papersAdams, Arapahoe,

Douglas & Jefferson Counties

$50 A WEEK!Reserve space303-566-4091

SPORTSLOCAL

Christian McCaffrey, shown here two years ago while a senior at Valor Christian, had quite a run at Stanford this season, nishing as the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy. File photo McCaffrey continues on Page 12


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ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Although taking advice isnt always easy for the headstrong Sheep, you might want to consider what someone you respect says about an upcoming decision.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A new offer is tempting, but dont be bullied into a quick decision. Rely on your keen Bovine business sense to alert you to anything that might be questionable.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Your Gemini Twin nature rallies to help you deal with this weeks hectic schedules, both in your personal and professional lives. One caution: Watch your diet.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Avoid rushing to make up for time lost on a stalled workplace operation. Best to set up a schedule and pace yourself. Welcome the help of colleagues.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Despite those glit-tering holiday distractions you love so well, be sure to keep your feline senses set on high to alert you to anything that might require fast action.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Making an effort to restore fraying relationships proves to be more successful than you dared hope. The holidays also bring new friends into your life.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Private and professional matters compete for your attention. Be honest in your assessment of which should get more of it, and for how long.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) A seemingly endless list of must-do tasks is best handled by tackling them one by one, and tak-ing energy-restoring timeouts between each job.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A vexing relationship seems destined to de-teriorate no matter what each side tries to do. A third partys advice just might prove helpful.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Reach out to ease any tensions caused by home or workplace pressures before they threaten the relationship-building progress youve made.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You often go out of your way to show kindness to others. So, dont be surprised if other people want to do something nice for you this week.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) People in your life respect your Piscean wisdom, so dont hesitate to speak up about a matter that you feel isnt being handled quite the way it should be.

BORN THIS WEEK: Your personal warmth helps you make friendships, and your sense of fair play helps you keep them.

2015 King Features Synd., Inc.

Super Crossword & Sudoku Answers

Elbert * 1

NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic Notices

To advertise your public notices call 303-566-4100

Public NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic NoticesPublic Notices

Notice To Creditors PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORSEstate of Rick L. Hunt, Deceased

Case Number: 15PR30029

All persons having claims against theabove-named estate are required topresent them to the Personal Represent-ative or to the District Court of ElbertCounty, Colorado on or before April 25,2016, or the claims may be forever barred.

MidFirst Trust a/k/a MidFirst BankPersonal RepresentativeAttn: Jeffrey B. Kadavyand Jennifer Sherman101 Cook StreetDenver, Colorado 80206

Legal Notice No.: 23310First Publication: December 24, 2015Last Publication: January 7, 2016Publisher: The Elbert County News

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORSEstate of Dale L. Balenseifen,

aka Dale Balenseifen,and Dale Lee Balenseifen, Deceased

Case Number: 2015 PR 030036

All persons having claims against theabove-named estate are required topresent them to the Personal Represent-ative or to the District Court of ElbertCounty, Colorado on or before April 11,2016 or the claims may be forever barred.

Suzanne B. BalenseifenPersonal Representative4810 North Mesa DriveCastle Rock, Colorado 80108

Legal Notice No: 23290First Publication: December 10, 2015Last Publication: December 24, 2015Publisher: Elbert County News

Notice To Creditors

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORSEstate of Dale L. Balenseifen,

aka Dale Balenseifen,and Dale Lee Balenseifen, Deceased

Case Number: 2015 PR 030036

All persons having claims against theabove-named estate are required topresent them to the Personal Represent-ative or to the District Court of ElbertCounty, Colorado on or before April 11,2016 or the claims may be forever barred.

Suzanne B. BalenseifenPersonal Representative4810 North Mesa DriveCastle Rock, Colorado 80108

Legal Notice No: 23290First Publication: December 10, 2015Last Publication: December 24, 2015Publisher: Elbert County News

Government Legals PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PURCHASE OF REALESTATE AT TAX LIEN SALE ANDOF APPLICATION FOR ISSUANCE

OF TREASURERS DEED

TSC# 2012-01588

To Every Person in Actual Possession orOccupancy of the hereinafter DescribedLand, Lot or Premises, and to the Personin Whose Name the Same was Taxed orSpecially Assessed, and to all Personshaving an Interest or Title of Record in orto the said Premises and To Whom It mayConcern, and more especially to:

SQ VENTURE LLC You and each of youare hereby notified that on the 20th day ofNovember A.D. 2012 the then CountyTreasurer of the County of Elbert, in theState of Colorado, sold at public tax liensale to PAMELA L MOSER the followingdescribed real estate situate in the Countyof Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit:

Legal Description:Section: 20 Township: 8 Range:63Subdivision: WAMBOLDT PAR INSE4 DESC B648 P599 84.807 A Sched-ule #R117574 APN#8320418003

and said County Treasurer issued a certi-ficate of purchase therefore to PAMELA LMOSER. That said tax lien sale wasmade to satisfy the delinquent taxes as-sessed against said real estate for theyear 2011;

That said real estate was taxed or spe-cially assessed in the name(s) of SQVENTURE LLC for said year 2011.

That a Treasurers Deed will be issued forsaid real estate to the said Elbert Countyat 3:00 oclock P.M., on the 31st day ofMarch, A.D. 2016, unless the same hasbeen redeemed.

Said property may be redeemed from saidsale at any time prior to the actual execu-tion of said Treasurers Deed. Witness myhand this 2nd day of December, 2015A.D.

Richard PettittCounty Treasurerof Elbert County

Legal Notice No.: 23293First Publication: December 17, 2015Last Publication: December 31, 2015Publisher: The Elbert County News

Government Legals

PUBLIC NOTICE


OF TREASURERS DEED

TSC# 2012-01588


SQ VENTURE LLC You and each of youare hereby notified that on the 20th day ofNovember A.D. 2012 the then CountyTreasurer of the County of Elbert, in theState of Colorado, sold at public tax liensale to PAMELA L MOSER the followingdescribed real estate situate in the Countyof Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit:

Legal Description:Section: 20 Township: 8 Range:63Subdivision: WAMBOLDT PAR INSE4 DESC B648 P599 84.807 A Sched-ule #R117574 APN#8320418003

and said County Treasurer issued a certi-ficate of purchase therefore to PAMELA LMOSER. That said tax lien sale wasmade to satisfy the delinquent taxes as-sessed against said real estate for theyear 2011;


That a Treasurers Deed will be issued forsaid real estate to the said Elbert Countyat 3:00 oclock P.M., on the 31st day ofMarch, A.D. 2016, unless the same hasbeen redeemed.

Said property may be redeemed from saidsale at any time prior to the actual execu-tion of said Treasurers Deed. Witness myhand this 2nd day of December, 2015A.D.

Richard PettittCounty Treasurerof Elbert County


Public Notice


OF TREASURER'S DEED

TSC# 2012-01580


SQ VENTURE LLC You and each of youare hereby notified that on the 20th day ofNovember A.D. 2012 the then CountyTreasurer of the County of Elbert, in theState of Colorado, sold at public tax liensale to ROBERT A. PETERSON the fol-lowing described real estate situate in theCounty of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit:

Legal Description:Section: 20 Township: 8 Range: 63Sub-division: WAMBOLDT PAR IN SE4DESC B648 P599 SCHEDULE #R117575APN:8320418002

and said County Treasurer issued a certi-ficate of purchase therefore to ROBERTA. PETERSON. That said tax lien salewas made to satisfy the delinquent taxesassessed against said real estate for theyear 2011;


That a Treasurer's Deed will be issued forsaid real estate to the said Elbert Countyat 3:00 o'clock P.M., on the 31st day ofMarch, A.D.2016, unless the same hasbeen redeemed.

Said property may be redeemed from saidsale at any time prior to the actual execu-tion of said Treasurer's Deed. Witness myhand this 2nd day of December, 2015A.D.

Richard PettittCounty Treasurer of Elbert County


Government Legals

Public Notice


OF TREASURER'S DEED

TSC# 2012-01580










Government Legals

Public Notice


OF TREASURER'S DEED

TSC# 2012-01580










PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PURCHASE OFREAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN

SALE AND OF APPLICATION FORISSUANCE OF TREASURERS DEED

TSC# 2011-01434


BARBARA JOYCE TAYLOR You andeach of you are hereby notified that on the8th day of November A.D.2011 the thenCounty Treasurer of the County of Elbert,in the State of Colorado, sold at public taxlien sale to TESS INVESTMENTS the fol-lowing described real estate situate in theCounty of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit:

Legal Description:Section: 35 Township: 10 Range: 60(TOTAL 0.344 A) Subdivision: SIMLAHEIGHTS Block: 1 Lot: 15 AND:-Lot:1615000 SQ FT

and said County Treasurer issued a certi-ficate of purchase therefore to TESS IN-VESTMENTS. That said tax lien sale wasmade to satisfy the delinquent taxes as-sessed against said real estate for theyear 2010;

That said real estate was taxed or spe-cially assessed in the name(s) of BAR-BARA JOYCE TAYLOR for said year2010.

That a Treasurers Deed will be issued forsaid real estate to the said Elbert Countyat 3:00 oclock P.M., on the 7th day ofAPRIL, A.D.2016, unless the same hasbeen redeemed.

Said property may be redeemed from saidsale at any time prior to the actual execu-tion of said Treasurers Deed. Witnessmy hand this 10th day of December, 2015A. D.


Legal Notice No.: 23298First Publication: December 24, 2015Last Publication: January 7, 2016Publisher: Elbert County News

Government Legals

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PURCHASE OFREAL ESTATE AT TAX LIEN

SALE AND OF APPLICATION FORISSUANCE OF TREASURERS DEED

TSC# 2011-01434


BARBARA JOYCE TAYLOR You andeach of you are hereby notified that on the8th day of November A.D.2011 the thenCounty Treasurer of the County of Elbert,in the State of Colorado, sold at public taxlien sale to TESS INVESTMENTS the fol-lowing described real estate situate in theCounty of Elbert, State of Colorado, to wit:

Legal Description:Section: 35 Township: 10 Range: 60(TOTAL 0.344 A) Subdivision: SIMLAHEIGHTS Block: 1 Lot: 15 AND:-Lot:1615000 SQ FT

and said County Treasurer issued a certi-ficate of purchase therefore to TESS IN-VESTMENTS. That said tax lien sale wasmade to satisfy the delinquent taxes as-sessed against said real estate for theyear 2010;

That said real estate was taxed or spe-cially assessed in the name(s) of BAR-BARA JOYCE TAYLOR for said year2010.

That a Treasurers Deed will be issued forsaid real estate to the said Elbert Countyat 3:00 oclock P.M., on the 7th day ofAPRIL, A.D.2016, unless the same hasbeen redeemed.

Said property may be redeemed from saidsale at any time prior to the actual execu-tion of said Treasurers Deed. Witnessmy hand this 10th day of December, 2015A. D.


Legal Notice No.: 23298First Publication: December 24, 2015Last Publication: January 7, 2016Publisher: Elbert County News

Elbert * 1

Public Notice

NOTICE OF FINAL PAYMENT

NOTICE is hereby given that Spring Val-ley Metropolitan District No. 1 of ElbertCounty, Colorado, will make final pay-ment at Special District Management Ser-vices, Inc., 141 Union Boulevard, Suite150, Lakewood, Colorado 80228, onJanuary 11, 2016, at the hour of 4:00 p.m.to Fischer Construction, Inc. for all workdone by said Contractor(s) in constructionor work on the Wastewater TreatmentPlant Improvement Project.

Any person, co-partnership, association ofpersons, company or corpora

elbert county news 1224

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