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ELBERT 1/10/13

Elbert County

January 10, 2013

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A Colorado Community Media Publication

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Elbert County, Colorado • Volume 117, Issue 50

Outgoing officials blast budget claim Newly elected commissioner said county nearly broke By Deborah Grigsby

dgrigsby@ourcoloradonews. com In an undated letter to Elbert County employees, outgoing commissioners Del Schwab and John Shipper took a swipe at incoming commissioner’s Robert Rowland’s math skills, insisting he got it wrong when he said county was almost broke. Centered around a Dec. 13 Denver Post article in which Rowland said the county “would start the new year with just $6,095 in the budget — about 3½ minutes worth of expenditure,” Shipper and Schwab say they have no idea how the Elbert County Tea Party founder came up with that num-

ber, and that the county has plenty of money. “The premise of this article is based on erroneous statements made by commissioner-elect Rowand who falsesly claims ‘the checkbook is empty,’” stated Shipper and Scwhab. “This statement is untrue by hundreds of thousands of dollars.” Rowland, who defeated Schwab in last year’s Republican primary, says that at the time of the interview, the number he quoted was based on the county’s current preliminary budget and was never meant to be an absolute number. “Sure we’ve got money in the bank for roads and bridges and such, but we can’t use that money to pay other obligations,” he explained. “That money has to stay separate from general funds by statute; we can’t mix or commingle funds, nor use money from the coming year to pay expenses from

a previous year.” Since the article appeared, the county has finalized its budget and Rowland said there is some additional money, but it comes from a variety of sources, including the return of some general funds that were paid out in error. “Right now, it’s still a moving target,” Rowland said of the situation. “But the last thing we want is our county employees to worry.” Rowland said the coming year will be tight, but based on new revenue projections, the county should be able to meet its $271,000 monthly payroll, as well as some of its anticipated expenditures until tax revenue begins to arrive in March, but in no way is the county “flush” with cash. Schwab and Shipper state in their letter the the county’s “cash in hand” report shows a cash balance of more than $626,000 in the general fund. The letter does not indicate the

An undated letter from outgoing Elbert County Commissioners John Shipper, left, and Del Schwab, center, says the county is not broke and has a balanced budget. Commissioner Kurt Schlegel is at right. Photo by Deborah Grigsby date the report was made. Both Shipper and Schwab could not be reached for comment. “OK, so I may have been off,”

said Rowland. “So instead of starting the year with $6,000 in the general fund, we’ll have $24,000, so what is that — 18 minutes of expenditures?”

Heating-bill help offered Douglas/Elbert Task Force can also lend hand By Ryan Boldrey

rboldrey@ourcoloradonews.com

dominated stock shows in the 1950s and ’60s, the Pennington boys strut some formidable genetic material not only in their animals, but in themselves, as well. But according to Cole, there’s more to it than just good DNA. “There’s a lot of work, too,” said Cole. “We have to clean them, wash them, groom them, and even get them used to all the noise at the show.” Their father, Cevey Pennington, also credits the family’s longstanding relationship with 4-H, and said he feels the program will help make the boys better men. “This all takes a lot of work, and these boys do most of it on their own,” said the elder Pennington. “We’ve got three generations of 4-H here on the ranch, and it’s taught them not only responsibility, but to be generous with their time and with community service — not so much it’s a detriment, but really, to the point they enjoy taking time to help others.” The boys’ mother, Ashley Pennington, is also an active participant in 4-H.

In an effort to assist struggling Colorado families with heating costs during the dead of winter, the state’s federally funded LowIncome Energy Assistance Program has already aided 52,642 qualified families since Nov. 1. LEAP, which helped pay heating bills for more than 101,000 Colorado families a year ago, has thus far given assistance to 380 households in Douglas CounTASK FORCE SEEKS ty, 146 in Elbert DONATIONS County and 5,518 in Arapahoe County With a fully functioning this winter. on-site thrift store, “We know that Treasures on Park Street, there are a lot more next to the food pantry eligible people in at 1638 Park St. in Castle the state,” said AgRock, the Douglas/Elbert gie Berens, LEAP Task Force is constantly manager for Coloseeking donations, either rado Department hand-me-down items or of Human Services. food items. “Sometimes, for “We tend to get sort varying reasons, of fat and happy around people don’t apthe holidays, and from ply, though. Often, Nov. 1-Christmas Eve we people feel like they are just bombarded with can make it on their donations,” said Suzanne own. But we want Greene, executive director them to know, it’s of the task force. “After the here as a resource to first of the year we hardly use if you meet the see anybody until March. eligibility require… A lot of people really ments.” rely on food banks. We like For an individual to tell people that if you to qualify, they must use the food bank, you have a pre-taxable can use the money you are income of no greatsaving on other bills.” er than $1,397 a month. The income amount goes up $495 per individual in the household, so for an average-sized family of four, the requirements are a maximum of $2,882 in pre-taxable income per month, which equates to 150 percent of the poverty line. For many, the perception in Douglas

Beef continues on Page 8

Heat continues on Page 8

Jane Abbott poses with her grandsons Cole Pennington, center, and Cauy Pennington, right. The youngsters are third-generation ranchers carrying on the family tradition of raising prize-winning beef cattle. Photo by Deborah Grigsby

Stock show a family tradition Third-generation ranching brothers set sights high By Deborah Grigsby

dgrigsby@ourcoloradonews.com Third-generation cattlemen Cole and Cauy Pennington are up at 5:30 a.m. working beside their father on the family’s 1,300-

acre Kiowa ranch, long before they ever pack their book bags for school. At the tender ages of 14 and 11, respectively, the two brothers are already seasoned showmen when it comes to championship beef. And this year, Cole, with a yearling heifer and prospect steer, and Cauy with a bred heifer, have their sights set high for the 107th National Western Stock Show, which starts Jan. 12 in Denver. The grandsons of Gilbert and Jane Abbott, whose Abbott Ranch shorthorn cattle

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2 Elbert County News

January 10, 2013

New year feels like all-clear We’d come, my family and I, to the 16th Street Mall to watch fireworks paint a final glittery statement to the departing year against the black backdrop above Denver’s skyline — or, depending on one’s perspective, write a vibrant, joyful opening line for a new script. The reverberating beat of up-tempo techno music pulsed through the lighthearted crowd, bundled in jackets and scarves as frosty puffs of breath rose and briskly dissipated in the winter air. A loud cheer echoed through the concrete canyon as rapid-fire, brilliant booms signaled the display’s end. Just like that, one more cycle completed, another set in motion. “A new start,” 18-year-old Devin Williams of Aurora said. “New beginnings,” agreed Yekatena Breez, 24, of Russia, here visiting friends. “A chance,” said Kevinia Pickford, also 24, of Denver, as she gazed into the sky, “to start up right again.” For many, New Year’s Eve is more than a reason to celebrate. The older I’ve grown, the more I’ve come to appreciate the underlying reflection that threads through the traditional revelry. The clock is ticking away my minutes; I want to make sure what’s left counts. Although I consistently reassess and set goals, the transition from the old year to the new one provides a concrete place to shed pieces of my life that didn’t work and keep those that did, reshuffle priorities to accommodate evolv-

ing experiences, or to just plant some new dreams. The opportunity to be able to alter course — if needed or wanted — at a moment that provides a fresh and dependable starting point seems comforting. “Every new beginning,” the Roman philosopher Seneca said, “comes from some other beginning’s end.” The tradition of renewal is age-old. New year celebrations date back some 4,000 years to the ancient Babylonians, who believed the first new moon after the day in late March with an equal amount of sunlight and darkness ushered the start of a new year. For centuries, civilizations celebrated New Year’s Day at different times of the year around festivals of religious significance. They celebrated much like we do, with music and dance and festivity. While most of the world today marks Jan. 1 as the start of the new year, some countries still follow their own calendars. Depending on the moon’s position, the Chinese New Year, for instance, falls anywhere between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20.

Traditions are as colorful and unique as the fireworks that light up the night. Spaniards eat 12 grapes before midnight, each representing a month that will be either sweet or sour. Danes jump off chairs to symbolize leaping into the new year. The Thai throw water on each other because they believe water washes away bad luck and makes people fresh. The dropping of the Times Square ball in New York City has become an iconic countdown worldwide of the year’s end. Regardless of the ritual or superstition, sociologists say new year’s celebrations are a way to let go of the past in a spirited, carefree manner before buckling down to start anew. Continuous psychological rebirth. Monica McLaughlin, 48, of Highlands Ranch, describes it as a reset button. “Maybe you didn’t accomplish everything you wanted to,” she said. “Reset. It’s not `I have to go all the way back to the beginning. It’s where can I start from?’ … Basically, it’s to own your life as you can.” Her good friend, Winston Murrell, 58, understands that sentiment. He is a tall man with a silvery stubble flecked across his cheeks and a navy blue New York Yankees beanie covering his head. He teaches middle school. Eight years ago, a heart condition almost ended his life. “Everything is a second chance,” he said. “I’m living on borrowed time.” So, he looks to the challenge of the un-

known, which comes full circle every New Year’s Eve. “You look at what you have come through in the past year and the promise of the future is before you. The future,” he said, “is unwritten.” Like a clean sheet of paper waiting for the words of a story. Devin Williams has some ideas for his: Get straight As in college. Be successful. Live a good life. So does Kevinia Pickford, on this night working as a crosswalk officer ushering hordes of fireworks spectators safely across the street. “My goal is to graduate from college this year, go into my nursing career and then start planning for school for my 2-year-old son.” We headed home, the burst of fireworks already fading in memory, thoughts of tomorrow already scurrying through my mind, the tick, ticking of the clock interrupted by the excitement of possibility and purpose. American businessman David Weinbaum has this to say about new ventures: “The secret to a rich life is to have more beginnings than endings.” I like that: Perpetual storylines of hope and promise. Constant rejuvenation — just like an old year giving way to a new one. Ann Macari Healey’s column about people, places and issues of everyday life appears every other week. She can be reached at ahealey@ourcoloradonews.com or 303566-4110.

ELBERT COUNTY NEWS IN A HURRY Chamber hosts town-hall lunch

The Elizabeth Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a special lunch at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 17 at the new Elizabeth Town Hall, located at 151 S. Banner St. All chamber members are encouraged to attend and tour the new facility. Lunch is provided and chamber members are asked to come prepared to share new ideas for 2013. For more information and to reserve a seat, contact Beverly Durant at 303-646-4287.

Certified herbalist course offered

A young white mule deer has been spotted by hundreds of residents in the area of Rowley Downs since November. Several people have taken the opportunity to photograph the animal, which owes its color to a genetic mutation. Courtesy photo by Sherry M. Jones

Interested in alternative medicine? The Garden Fairy Apothecary, 244 Main St. in Elizabeth, is offering a seven-week certified herbalist course beginning Jan. 15 and ending March 5. This course prepares the student for a potential career in

herbal medicine and covers dozens of herbs and their medicinal properties, as well as animal medicine and aromatherapy. The course fee is $400. Herbalism 101 is a pre-requisite for this class. For more information, call 303-617-3370 or visit www.gardenfairyapothecary.com.

Suicide intervention training

A two-day suicide intervention workshop will be held at Frontier High School, 589 S. Banner St. in Elizabeth. The course runs Jan 30-31 and provides practical training to caregivers seeking to prevent the immediate risk of suicide. Classes begin at 12:30 p.m. and run approximately one hour. Registration is $30 and due by Jan 23. Fees include lunch and course materials. Please make checks payable to Rural Solu-

tions, P.O. Box 503, Sterling, CO 80751. For more information, email maranda.miller@ruralsolutions.org.

All-white fur is caused by genetic mutation By Chris Michlewicz

cmichlewicz@ourcoloradonews. com Parker has consistently offered unique wildlife viewing opportunities, but the latest one has amateur shutterbugs reaching for their cameras. Homeowners in Rowley Downs, just east of the downtown district, have marveled at an albino mule deer that has found a home in their neighborhood. It appears to have been accepted without trouble into

a traditional herd that travels along greenbelts and even residential streets. Jennifer Churchill, spokeswoman for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, said a lack of coloration occurs in all types of animals and is caused by a genetic mutation. Residents in Evergreen reported seeing an albino deer two years ago. “It’s not that extraordinarily rare. It does happen from time to time,” she said. Churchill said the Parker deer had not been reported to parks and wildlife officials. Sherry M. Jones, an amateur photographer and Parker resident for 16 years, is among the many people who have snapped photos of the young deer, which has a rough winter coat.

authentic grub By Sonya Ellingboe

sellingboe@ourcoloradonews. com The Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering enters its 24th year of celebrating the cowboy way of life — romanticized and otherwise. It’s presented this year on Jan. 17-20 at the American Mountaineering Center in Golden, the repurposed former Golden Junior and Senior High School, at 710 10th St. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, plus matinees at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday and 10 a.m. Saturday. Cowboy Church is

BUSIN

Area Ch to a Bu Jan. 10 shoppi Breakfast group eyes election The Elbert County Conser- Kathy a vative Breakfast Association is County hosting a special presentation and me Great n on Jan. 12 entitled: “The 2012 Election: What Went Wrong and provide Where Do We Go From Here?” JAN. 1 Guest speakers include Paulina Olivera, secretary, Colorado CHAM Elizabe Hispanic Republicans; David lunche Dorty, Rocky Mountain Black new El Tea Party; and Greg Schaller, Street. professor of political science, Colorado Christian University. to this Tickets are $10 per person and us wha Help us $5 for students. for 201 The event begins at 8 a.m. will be held in the exhibit hall at 4287 o the Elbert County Fairgrounds, FEB. 1 95 Ute Ave. in Kiowa. RSVP by FRON calling 303-646-9877. High Sc and sn fair No Dec. 1. studen Call the its dire Schaffner, Skip Gorman, Pop len@es Wagner, Mike Blakely and Ernie Frontie Martinez. Also: Bary Ward, Liz St., Eliz Masterson, Jon Chandler, Yampa Valley Boys, Patty Clayton, GaryTHE O McMahan, Al “Doc” Mehl, Doristransit Daley, Chick Pyle. Central Some are local musicians whois open have appeared at the LittletonCheyen Museum over recent years. countie Families are welcome at theseand effi performances and programming is fashioned for kids age 8 and older, especially at themed matinees, where there will be stories of cattle drives and life on the plains. When the munchies strike, there will be cowboy grub served from the Authentic Chuck Wagon, owned by John Schaffner. Hours: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Saturday; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Ticket prices vary, see website, or there is a super ticket for all six shows.

Albino mule deer Cowboy life celebrated in Golden Festival brings excites shutterbugs poetry, music, at 10 a.m. Sunday. See the website for schedule of entertainers at www.coloradocowboygathering.com. This is the second year in Golden for this unique event, which spent 10 years at the Arvada Center and has been wandering to various venues since. Each show will be different. There is a special focus on cowboy poetry, an art form that grew out of long days in the saddle. Cowboys would gather around a campfire at night and entertain each other with tall tales and songs. Poets, Western singers and old-fashioned yodelers will spin songs and stories about the happy times and rough times experienced in life in the Old West — the West of legends, films and books. And they will look at contemporary life as well. Performers include: Eli Barsi, Sam DeLeeuw, Bill Barwick, John

JAN. 1

LET US CELEBRATE WITH YOU Have a wedding, anniversary, engagement, birth and special occasion coming up? Share it! Colorado Community Media invites you to place an announcement to share your news. Go to ourcoloradonews.com/celebrations for package and pricing information. Deadline is 10 a.m. Tuesdays the week preceding the announcement.

January 10, 2013

Elbert County News 3

RTD introduces smart-card system First phase affects those with EcoPass, CollegePass By Tom Munds

tmunds@ourcoloradonews.com The Regional Transportation District ushered in the New Year by launching the first phase of its smartcard program. Holders of an EcoPass or a CollegePass can now use a smart card that changes the way those passengers let RTD know they rode the bus or light rail, and how RTD captures fare and ridership data. Before the smart card, pass holders had to always carry their pass with them and be ready to show it if asked. The smart card is a reusable plastic card the size of a credit card containing an embedded chip that instantaneously processes

Regional Transportation District smart-card ambassador Pauletta Tonilas, left, helps a commuter use his card at the Englewood light rail station. Smart cards are swiped at a reader to record the trip and the fare. Photo by Tom Munds information. An electronic reader validates the card, updates information on the card, defines the correct fare and validates a transfer. RTD had volunteer smart card ambassadors like Pauletta Tonilas at bus stops and light rail stations to help anyone who had a question about how to use the new device. Tonilas was at the Englewood light rail station for the morning rush hour

Jan. 3 and 4. She said many people had no questions as they used the card. Commuter Kevin Kabance swiped the reader with his smart card but wasn’t sure it worked. But Tonilas said the yellow light at the top of the reader showed the card had been read. “I’m not sure about the card,” Kabance said. “It seems like a good idea but I would rather have seen the

turnstile system other cities use to make sure no one is not paying the fare.” He said he sort of likes the system but he had always carried his pass and had it handy if a fare checker requested to see it. “I guess this could be easier,” he said. “I just am not sure about the system so I guess I’ll have to wait and see.” Brent Fallsworth, a Littleton resident who is a CollegePass holder, said he will be getting a smart card and, from what he has read, it will easier for him to use RTD. “I ride light rail to and from classes at the Auraria Campus,” he said as he waited for the train at the Littleton station. “From what I am told, I will just tap the card on the reader and I’m good to go. It’ll be better than always having to have my pass in easy reach. That’ll be nice.” Scott Reed, RTD public affairs officer, said smart cards either have been issued or will be issued to all EcoPass and CollegePass

holders. He said some individuals like Fallsworth will receive their smart cards when college classes resume. The new card system means bus riders with either the EcoPass or CollegePass will tap their smart card against a reader on the bus as they board. Lightrail passengers traveling somewhere other than downtown Denver will select the fare category of local, regional or express, and tap the smart-card reader located on or near the lightrail platform. Light-rail passengers traveling to or within down-

town won’t have to select a fare category. The smart-card program is only being used by the holders of an EcoPass or a CollegePass, but that will change in the second phase of a two-phase rollout of the smart-card system. Reed said the next phase — affecting other riders with all other types of passes — will kick in next fall. He said when phase two is put in place, any RTD rider can buy a smart card for a specific amount that will be used for fares. He added that any rider can still pay the fare with cash.

FR Estim Inspe

THINGS TO DO JAN. 10 BUSINESS AFTER hours. The Elizabeth Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to a Business After Hours from 5-7 p.m. Jan. 10 at Kat Eyes Optical in the Safeway shopping Center in Elizabeth. Come meet Kathy at the only eye specialist in Elbert County. Enjoy visiting a local business and meeting other area business people. Great networking tool. Refreshments provided by the local business. JAN. 17 CHAMBER LUNCHEON. A special

Elizabeth Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon is at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 17 at the new Elizabeth Town Hall on Banner Street. All chamber members are invited to this free luncheon. We want you to tell us what you want from your chamber. Help us with the vision of the chamber for 2013. RSVP to Beverly at 303-6464287 or director@elizabethchamber.org.

FEB. 14 FRONTIER FUNDRAISING. Frontier High School students will make reindeer and snowmen to sells at the EMS craft fair Nov. 17 and the local craft fair on Dec. 1. A spaghetti dinner, sponsored by students and staff, is planned for Feb. 14. Call the school at 303-646-1798 or email its director, Rob McMullen, at rmcmullen@esdk12.org to make a donation. Frontier High School is at 589 S. Banner St., Elizabeth. 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

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. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT ELIZABETH, COLORADO and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address change to: 9137 S. Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 DEADLINES:

Display advertising: Thurs. 11 a.m. Legal advertising: Thurs. 11 a.m. Classified advertising: Mon. 12 p.m.

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 http://outbackexpress. tripod.com.

DIVORCE AND Post-Decree Clinic. Elbert and Lincoln County Pro Se Divorce Clinic is offered from 9 a.m. to noon the third Friday of each month at the Elbert County Justice Center, 751 Ute St., in Kiowa. For information, call 303-5206088 or email morgan@hayday.org. The clinic is free for parties who have no attorney and who are going through dissolution of marriage, legal separation, or post-decree cases. All walk-ins are welcome, and will be assisted on a firstcome, first-served basis. 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 County Sheriffs Office, all law enforcement in our county, and the community at large. Membership is open to anyone without a criminal record. It meets the last Monday of the month at the Elbert County Sheriffs Office at 7 p.m.

For more information or a membership application, go to http://www.elbertcountysheriff.com/posse.html, or contact Dave Peontek at 303-646-5456.

THE ELIZABETH Food Bank, 381 S. Banner in Elizabeth (next door to Elizabeth Presbyterian 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. ELIZABETH GUITAR Group. Elizabeth guitar circle will meet on the first and second Wednesday of each month at the Elizabeth Library. Traditional protocol/ courtesy. Country, pop, bluegrass, cowboy, Beatles, 50s, 60s, 70s, blues, jazz and more. We who play for pleasure would love to meet more of same. Acoustic or power down. Come prepared to share a few songs, perform, play along, sing along with others. Enjoy new guitar friends to jam with. Gerry Vinson hosts on the first Wednesday from 6:30-9 p.m., and Laurie Smith hosts on the second Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. Uncertain? Drop by and observe. Banjo, ukelele, mandolin welcome. Call Laurie

at 720-363-3531.

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. 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. SATURDAY GENEALOGY Fun meets at the Elbert Public Library at 1 p.m. on the seocnd Saturday of each month. Beginning to advanced genealogy enthusiasts are invited to attend. The Elbert Public Library is in the Elbert School library at 24489 Main Street in Elbert. Call 303648-3533 for more information.

2154 E. Commons Avenue, Suite 342 Centennial, CO 80122 Don’t miss out on this chance to get all the information you need about funding your business!

Buy an ad, get an advertorial FREE!

PUBLICATION DATE: February 14, 2013 SALES DEADLINE: January 24, 2013 Online ad included at no additional cost! Section will be available on our websites for 1 year! Contact your CCM Sales Representative to take part in this exciting advertising opportunity! Michelle Johnston • 303.566.4125 mjohnston@ourcoloradonews.com

LAKEWOOD, WHEAT RIDGE Michelle Patrick • 303.566.4126 mpatrick@ourcoloradonews.com

WESTMINSTER

Janice Holmes • 303.566.4119 jholmes@ourcoloradonews.com

NORTHGLENN, THORNTON, FEDERAL HEIGHTS

To register: go to www.SmallBusinessDenver.com and click on “Workshops.” www.SmallBusinessDenver.com South Metro Denver SBDC 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342 Centennial, CO 80122

(303) 795-0142

Office: 303-795-0142 Fax: 303-795-7520 info@SmallBusinessDenver.com

Michele Apodaca • 303.566.4073 mapodaca@ourcoloradonews.com

CASTLE ROCK, DOUGLAS COUNTY

GOLDEN, LAKEWOOD

Linda Nuccio • 303.566.4152 lnuccio@ourcoloradonews.com

CENTENNIAL, ENGLEWOOD, LITTLETON

Mark Hill • 303.566.4124 mhill@ourcoloradonews.com Jennie Herbert • 303.566.4092 jherbert@ourcoloradonews.com

The South Metro Denver SBDC and SCORE are hosting a panel of experts to discuss various lending options available for small businesses

Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012 6:00 pm– 8:30 pm $10 per person

Tell Your Story!

ARVADA

Lender’s Panel

HIGHLANDS RANCH, LONE TREE Jim Boucher • 303.566.4078 jboucher@ourcoloradonews.com

PARKER, DOUGLAS COUNTY, ELBERT COUNTY Ron (Mitch) Mitchell • 303.566.4075 rmitchell@ourcoloradonews.com

NATIONAL MARKET

Erin Addenbrooke • 303.566.4074 eaddenbrooke@ourcoloradonews.com

The South Metro Denver Small Business Development Center is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Support given by the U.S. Small Business Administration through such funding does not constitute an express or implied endorsement of any of the co-sponsors' or participants' opinions products or services. The Colorado SBDC is a partnership between the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, the U.S. Small Business Administration, Colorado's institutions of higher education, and local development organizations.

4 Elbert County News

4-COLOR

January 10, 2013

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Osborne Harvie Osborne Harvie passed away Sat, Dec 29, 2012, in Elizabeth, CO. Funeral services will be at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, 4022 Park Lane, Elizabeth, CO 80107, with interment at Ft. Logan National Cemetery. Future date and times are pending; for updates, please visit www. olingerandrews.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Osborne’s name to Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church.

Governor Ritter Explains Energy / Innovation Link to Chamber Group By Manny Gonzales | mgonzales@bestchamber.com For Colorado to forge ahead as leader in energy production, we will need to rely on our wealth of natural resources and build understanding how oil and gas exploration and innovation in renewable energy can coexist, former Gov. Bill Ritter told a group of business leaders recently. “It’s important to look ahead and natural gas is important for the clean energy future,” said Ritter, speaking to about 60 members of the South Metro Denver Chamber’s Energy and Renewable Infrastructure Council (ERIC). “Natural gas production has to be done in a very environmentally sound way.” The ERIC’s role at the chamber has been to promote the region and the state as the energy capital of the nation and Ritter has been among a list of innovators and experts in traditional oil and gas and renewable energy who have met with the group. “Colorado is doing it the right way,” said Chamber President & CEO John Brackney. “Bringing in great minds, leaders of innovation and power players – which Governor Ritter fits into all three – is how this business community is helping to advance things in traditional and renewable energy.” Ritter, who served as Colorado’s governor from 2007 to 2011, currently serves as Director of the Center for the New Energy Economy at Colorado State University. As governor, he was active in propping up Colorado as a clean energy state while urging for tighter regulations on traditional oil and gas processes. At CSU, he has been active in making a business case for clean energy while working with communities to build understanding and acceptance around traditional oil and gas operations. “We talk a lot at CSU about the social license for natural gas,” Ritter said. “You need

Calendar of Events

For a complete calendar of South Metro Denver Chamber events or more information, visit our web site at www.bestchamber.com or call 303-795-0142. Thursday, January 10th: 7:30 am: Technology Advocates Group Discussion The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 11:30 am: HYPE Business Empowerment Group The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 3:30 pm: Women in Leadership: Shall We Have a Healthy Start to the New Year, Ladies? The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Friday, January 11th: 7:30 am: Economic Development Group Investor Breakfast The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial

Former Governor Bill Ritter speaks to the Chamber Energy & Renewable Infrastructure Council

a social license to operate with communities you impact.” Ritter also alluded to the challenges politics brings to the mix. “The last of two years has been pretty contentious inside the halls of legislatures around the country and we saw energy politics become a wedge issue,” he said. “When I was governor we passed some really significant energy legislation in a bipartisan way, Clean Energy Clean Jobs, with some really serious bipartisan support. We haven’t experienced that much around the country.” Ritter did point out that Colorado is in a delicate place as the economy forges ahead and that innovation in technology around hydraulic fracturing could address issues specific to our state’s water shortages. Fracturing utilizes about one percent of the state’s water for gas processing, he pointed out. “But I think it’s that one percent that everyone is arguing over,” Ritter said. “We

need to respect and understand the relationship between energy, food and water in this state. What we’re seeing is farmers and ranchers going to auction to buy surplus water and find themselves bidding against energy companies. We don’t want to see our agricultural economy suffer in a significant way because of energy.” The South Metro Denver Chamber Energy and Renewable Infrastructure Council is a coalition of leaders in a public/private partnership to explore aspects of renewable energy. These forward-thinking business professionals want to create jobs, put Colorado on the map as a technology hub and provide an energy road map for the next generation. This is the execution of the idea that the entire south metro area can exist on alternative and renewable fuels. The group meets the third Friday of every month at the Chamber Center – 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342 in Centennial. For more information, call 303795-0142.

Tuesday, January 15th: 4:30 pm: An Afternoon with Ryan Call, Colorado GOP Chair The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Wednesday, January 16th: 4:30 pm: Southwest Metro Business Alliance Ken Caryl Ranch Recreation Center, 7676 S. Continental Divide Rd., Littleton Thursday, January 17th: 9:00 am: Where’s My Lead? Using the DBJ for Effective Lead Building The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 4:00 pm: Meetup for Profit: Building Business Using Social Marketing The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial Friday, January 18th: 7:30 am: Social Marketing for Business: Understanding the Mechanics of Social Media... The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial 11:30 am: Energy & Sustainable Infrastructure Council: CU, CSU, School of Mines & NREL The Chamber Center, 2154 E. Commons Ave., Suite 342, Centennial

5-OPINION-COLOR

January 10, 2013

Elbert County News 5

OPINIONS/YOURS AND OURS

Much to accomplish for legislators this session The first regular session of the 69th General Assembly began this week. When our state lawmakers convened Jan. 9 in Denver, they went to work in a Capitol with some new faces in new places and a balance of power that has shifted to the left. After the November election, Democrats gained control of both chambers of the state Legislature, to go with a Democratic governor in John Hickenlooper. Both the House and Senate have new leadership. Mark Ferrandino, D-Denver, replaces Frank McNulty, R-Highlands Ranch, as House speaker. John Morse, D-El Paso County, takes over for term-limited Brandon Shaffer, D-Longmont, as Senate president. With the Democrats’ new power comes a great responsibility. Namely, to think of

OUR VIEW their constituents first, even those who may not have voted for them. It is important to note that of Colorado’s active voters, Republicans slightly outnumber Democrats — 924,076 to 891,004, as of Dec. 1. The ranks of active unaffiliated voters only slightly trails the Dems’ numbers. Given that, it would be wise for lawmakers to vigorously work toward bipartisan solutions that the people of this state will embrace. But will that happen? At a recent gathering with reporters

Bleepin’ blizzard, what a mess “Did he say 3 inches or 30 inches?” That’s what I asked myself on the way to the grocery store on Sunday, March 16, 2003. I was listening to the weather report on KOA. I bought groceries for 3 inches. Big mistake. I bought Diet Coke, angel hair pasta, spaghetti sauce, a bag of romaine lettuce, and some soft-baked chocolate chip cookies. It would be almost a week before I was allowed to go back to the grocery store. The dog and I took the groceries home and I did some schoolwork. It was my final semester of teaching and I was counting the days. We were just a week away from spring break, when I was going to meet select students in New York City for my annual art museum tours. Then it was just a hop, step and jump until school’s out, forever. By Wednesday it didn’t look like I was ever going to make it to New York because I couldn’t make it to the corner. It sure looked pretty at first. But it seemed unusually relentless. The last big blizzard we had around here came 21 years before on Christmas Eve 1982. About 2 feet of snow fell. That one caused a lot of inconveniences. But it was a junior blizzard compared to this one. If you were here then, you know that there were life-threatening situations, restrictions on driving, broken water pipes, and all kinds of human interest stories. By the time it was over we had close to 32 inches of snow. I had drifts that were 5 feet deep. I had to shovel a channel to the back yard to a little area that I had cleared for the dog. She didn’t always use the channel or the back yard. Clean up on aisle 2. I had enough dog food but not enough food for myself. It crossed my mind that I might have to develop a taste for dog food. In a particularly dark moment I thought I might have to develop a taste for dog. The sweetest sound I heard in days was a snow removal truck just a block away. They were finally getting to the side streets.

One lane, albeit sloppy, was opened, I made it out and bought food, and got a New York haircut at Great Clips. Most of the students had to re-book their flights. A few took red-eyes. But we all made it and when we arrived it was a delightful spring day. Some people were in short sleeves and shorts. The war in Iraq had started on March 20. I was against it, but like everyone else I felt it would be over swiftly. We watched highlights — or lowlights — in restaurants and bars, and then went to our museums. When I returned I saw that the 20-foot maple in my front yard had splayed. That was very sad. It had to be cut down. One of the snow-laden branches had damaged one of my yard sculptures. But that was not the worst. I smelled the smell of water and concrete, in the house. That’s a perfume called Trouble. I went downstairs and stepped into several inches of water, and watched the sump pump shoot water on the floor. The pipe had come apart while I was in New York. I lost record albums, family photographs and letters, documents, and artwork. It was devastating at the time. By now I don’t even remember exactly what I lost. It was life’s way of doing a de-acquisition for me. Craig Marshall Smith is an artist, educator and Highlands Ranch resident. He can be reached at craigmarshallsmith@ comcast.net

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Secularism does not equal immorality

I’m well aware of the need to fix the societal problems that lead to tragedies like that in Newtown, Conn., where my family lived for 11 years. But foolish talk equating secularism with evil, and blaming it for such events, won’t help. Religious believers tend to credit their religion for their own moral standards, and falsely assume that nonbelievers have none. As an experimental psychologist, I have followed with interest the developing body of scientific research on this topic. Nonbelievers actually tend to do slightly better than believers on tests of ethical decisionmaking. And interestingly, Nate Silver (of FiveThirtyEight) just released a study showing that nonbelievers have a substantially lower rate of gun ownership than believers. Equating secularism with amorality is a simple and baseless prejudice, which costs our society dearly, not least by limiting our choice of political candidates. Cast out the mote, please — for the good of the country. H. Rudy Ramsey, Ph.D. Parker

Sensibly armed citizenry is crime deterrent

Appalling and tragic as any killing is, whatever the weapon, we need to apply reason and reliable data in crafting solutions. Hence, the knee-jerk response of demanding additional gun-control legislation should be dampened while calmer minds research and deliberate. Data do not support the expectation that stronger gun-control laws reduce the incidence of shootings. For example, the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, referenced in a 12/20/2012 Wall Street Journal article, ranks Connecticut high for restrictive gun laws. Rather, a sensibly armed citizenry is a better deterrent. Whether criminally inclined or tragically misguided, a killer can and will obtain a weapon. People need to be able to defend themselves and their loved ones from attack. In the Bill of Rights, the wise authors of our treasured Constitution firmly and unambiguously stated that “the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” Very careful thought, not motivated by personal anguish or political agenda, must precede any step to erode that right. Peg Brady Centennial

and editors from many of the state’s media outlets, Morse said the voters’ decision to empower his party means the “middle class is coming back.” House Minority Leader Mark Waller, R-El Paso County, quickly took exception to what he apparently felt was a jab at the GOP. “We do care about the middle class and bipartisan solutions,” Waller said. While that’s a fairly typical exchange across party lines, let’s hope it wasn’t a sign of bickering to come. Instead, let’s hope they are both right, that both parties will show commitment to the middle class and a focus on bipartisan problem-solving. With a passel of weighty issues awaiting them, lawmakers will be best served by

proceeding with a spirit of cooperation. In the coming months, state legislators could be faced with decisions on: • Setting standards for marijuana use and driving. • Deciding whether to repeal the death penalty. • Stricter gun-control measures. • Civil unions, an issue that appeared headed for passage in 2012 before lastminute maneuvering prevented a vote. • Increased school safety measures. These are among issues important to Coloradans, and we hope legislators will devote the effort and thought needed to come up with common-sense solutions. Voters have put their faith in our lawmakers, and they need to take that responsibility seriously.

Commitment is the watchword Happy new year! Did you make any new year’s resolutions this year? Are there any carry-over goals or resolutions left to conquer from last year? Or are you still basking in the wondrous feeling of accomplishment from achieving and exceeding your own expectations from last year? Whatever your situation may be, it is that time of year again to identify and pursue what it is we really want in this life for ourselves and for others. It’s time to stop being opportunistic, hoping that something good will happen for us or that someone will just hand us what we want most. It is time for us to become more strategic about our dreams and goals and actually make things happen for us instead of waiting for things to happen to us. The easy way out might be to say that this sounds like more philosophical rhetoric or feels like too much work. Well here is the deal, we can either attach our sail to someone else’s boat, tagging along on their dreams and goals, or we can navigate our own ship on the seas of our own destiny. And the difference-maker will be our level of commitment. But isn’t that always the case? We get these great ideas and set our new year’s resolutions to improve our lives in some way or do more for ourselves and others. And then before we know it, convenience takes over for commitment, long-term goals give way to our instant gratification. Commitment will be my watchword as I know that I have more to give, learn, do, and love in this world. As I prepare to steer my ship this year and to help me grow personally, professionally and spiritually, I am committed to do the following: Personal growth: One of my favorite websites is www.candogo.com. OK, maybe it’s one of my favorites because I built the website. Even so, I am committed to spending just seven minutes each day watching five video clips that will have an impact on my day. Here is where I get my daily dose of motivation and inspiration in

Elbert County News 9137 S. Ridgeline Blvd., Suite 210, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

GERARD HEALEY CHRIS ROTAR SCOTT GILBERT JOHN ROSA ERIN ADDENBROOKE AUDREY BROOKS SCOTT ANDREWS DEAN LINK BOB BURDICK

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quick little sound bites. Professional growth: “The Sandler Rules: 49 Timeless Selling Principles and How to Apply Them” is a fantastic book. In addition to everything else I read, I will commit to reading one chapter each week and work on building upon that specific selling principle or skill. This book can be found at www.sandler.com Spiritual growth: This will be a huge daily commitment and one that I invite you to join me in. I am starting a daily devotional reading, “The One Year Daily Insights.” It is a book written by Zig Ziglar and Ike Reighard and has 365 quick insights based on Scripture and tied to a motivational principle. I will be sharing my thoughts each day on Facebook, so please join me and share your thoughts and ideas as well. If you can’t find me on Facebook or have a problem finding the book just send me an email at gotonorton@gmail.com and I will make sure we connect. As I set my course for the coming year I know that these three things will have a huge impact on my results and I will be absolutely committed to each one for the entire year. Commitment is my watchword. How about you? I would love to hear what you will do to navigate your life this year, the course you will set for yourself, and how you plan on making commitment your watchword for 2013 at gotonorton@ gmail.com. Michael Norton, a resident of Highlands Ranch, is the former president of the Zig Ziglar organization and CEO and founder of www.candogo.com Colorado Community Media Phone 303-566-4100 • Fax 303-566-4098

Columnists and guest commentaries The Elbert County News features a limited number of regular columnists, found on these pages and elsewhere in the paper, depending on the typical subject the columnist covers. Their opinions are not necessarily those of the Elbert County News. Want your own chance to bring an issue to our readers’ attention, to highlight something great in our community, or just to make people laugh? Why not write a letter of 300 words or fewer. After all, the News is your paper.

WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER Our team of professional reporters, photographers and editors are out in the community to bring you the news each week, but we can’t do it alone. Send your news tips, your own photographs, event information, letters, commentaries... If it happens, it’s news to us. Please share by contacting us at news@ourcoloradonews.com, and we will take it from there.

6 Elbert County News January 10, 2013

ElbertSPORTS 6-SPORTS

Elbert’s comeback comes up short Local teams head into second half of season By Scott Stocker

sports@ourcoloradonews.com As Elbert coach Mac McGuire put it, “Our game with Custer County was a tale of two halves.” And, indeed the game, played last Friday, was. The first three quarters in the game were disaster for Elbert. The Bulldogs trailed 36-14 at the half and 50-28 heading into the final quarter. But it turned out to be a better finish as the Bulldogs outscored Custer County 26-9 in the fourth quarter to fall by a final 5954 score. Elbert dropped to 2-4 on the season and traveled to face Colorado Springs School Jan. 11. The only victories for the Bulldogs to date have been 47-34 over Front Range Christian and 64-48 against Pikes Peak Christian. “I guess we had a holiday hangover and we came out not ready to play. It took us a half to wake up,” McGuire said. “At the half I told the boys, you can’t be proud of this, just come out and pour your hearts out. A couple more minutes and I think we could have won it. “And they certainly played much better in that second half,” McGuire said. “We stepped it up. They were thinking, we can do this. The second half was something else for the kids as we got the clogs out of our system.” Roger Carlson and Bryce Hutchens led Elbert with 11 and 10 points respectively and were the only players to score in double-figures against Custer County. Chance Hendrix tacked on nine more. And, it was a game in which Carlson only played in the second half. The reason? Carlson had a technical foul called on him for unsportsmanlike conduct in Elbert’s game with Vanguard Christian, a 49-48 loss, before the holiday break. The team rule, sit out a half in the next game. “It was hard, but once he got in Roger helped spark our comeback,” McGuire said. “He guarded their best player and that helped give us a boost.” Overall, Elbert has had the scoring spread out in nearly equal fashion as the Bulldogs head into the new year. Unfortunately, they have no players who average in double figures. Hutchens and Blake Nicholas lead the way scoring 8.4 points a game, Adam Averett and Hendrix are at 6.8 points a game and Nolan Brogger scores 6.2 a night. Custer County was led by Brian O’Connor, who scored 24 points, and Thomas Mullet, who tallied 23. The pair have also been the big guns through the season for the Bobcats, 5-2. O’Connor is averaging 20.1 points a game, Mullet, 16.1. Elbert’s lone senior girl, Logan Franek, scored 26 points, but the Bulldogs still couldn’t overcome Custer County as they dropped to 2-4 on the season after losing 5143.

Elizabeth senior Lorrin Gavitt drives around a pick in action from earlier in the season. The Cardinals head into the second half of the season with a 4-4 record. Photo by Kevan Sheppard Elbert’s two wins this season have both come against Pikes Peak Christian, winning the first time, 38-25, the second, 64-29. Injuries are playing a key role for Elbert and coach Rebecca Tomlin with Reilly Franek setting the game out with a back injury and Kaylee Harris hobbled with a knee injury. “The injuries are setting us back,” Tomlin said. “Kaylee did play the entire game and I admire her determination. But we only have 10 girls now and they all played both the junior varsity and varsity games. Logan has been strong for us. “We’re making progress, we’re young and dedicated with hard working girls and battle tested,” Tomlin said. “We have a tough 2A schedule and that should help make us battle tested in our 1A league. We just need to cut down on the turnovers. We broke their press, but couldn’t convert. We are

so close.” Custer County, too, has struggled as the Bobcats are only 2-6 following its victory against Elbert. Sarah Groff leads her team in scoring with a 9.3 average while Aspen Anderson scores 6.4 points a game. ELIZABETH The Elizabeth boys saw their pre-holiday portion of the basketball season end on a sour note as the Cardinals were beaten by Canon City, 70-62. They opened the 2013 portion of the season hosting Mitchell, Jan. 8th and coach Mike Boss has high hopes his boys can improve on the basketball court as sharply as they did on the football field this past season. The Cardinals take a 3-5 record into the new year. Jake Gavitt has been the leader up front in the early going averaging 18.4 points and 5.5 rebounds a game. He has been followed by Cody Steinke, hitting 11.9 points a

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game, and James Christiansen, 6.8 points an outing. Gavitt and Trevyn Ross have been the leaders in the rebounding department pulling down 5.5 and 5.6 missed shots a game. The girls opened the 2013 portion of their season playing at Conifer Jan. 7 with high hopes of improving on their 4-4 record. Like the boys, they also concluded the pre-holiday portion of the schedule losing to Canyon City, 52-32. Tatum Neubert has been the only girl to average in doublefigures for Elizabeth averaging 13.2 points a game. She also leads in rebounds pulling down 6.8 a game. She is closely followed here by Sabra Ross, 6.5 rebounds a game, and Clare Nicholas, 6.0 rebounds a night. Ross is also the second-leading scorer for the Cardinals, 7.0 points a game, followed by Nicholas 5.8 points a night. SIMLA It has been a pretty good start

at Simla, especially for the girls, who have compiled an early 5-0 record under coach Al Snyder. And, it hasn’t been that bad for the boys as the Cubs are 4-1 heading into the new year under coach David Guy. Simla resumed the season Jan. 11 and 12 as the boys and girls traveled to Byers and Elbert, respectively. Kenzi Mitchell has had the hot hand in the early going for the girls averaging 19.8 points a game while pulling down 8.8 rebounds a night and dishing up 4.6 assists. Yet the Cubs have a total of four girls averaging in double-figures. Marilyn Alexander has averaged 13 points per game while pulling down 7.7 rebounds. She is followed by Jessica George, 11.8 points a game, and Sam Kaatz, 10.2 points a game. The girls have had only one game in which they have been held to less than 64 points and that was their 58-41 victory against Kit Carson. Their biggest output was in their 78-34 victory against Genoa-Hugo. Eric Fullmer has been the leader in point production for the Simla boys averaging 15 points a game. Cody Norris is the only other player in double-figures to date scoring 14.4 points a night. Norris and Aaron Thieman have also been standouts on defense with 12 and 11 steals, respectively. The boys lost their only game of the season to Cheyenne Wells, 53-45. The Cubs closed out the pre-holiday break beating Flagler 52-20. KIOWA The Kiowa boys and girls basketball teams have been on different paths since the beginning of the season. The boys will carry a 4-1 record into the new year while the girls, on the other hand, are 1-4 having lost four straight. The boys and girls get back into action Jan. 15, when they CIVA Christian. The boys will also be in action January 18, hosting Calhan. The boys, coached by Walter Sutton, suffered their lone loss Dec. 7 against Limon (63-44). Other than that misfortune, it’s been a pretty solid season for the Indians. They closed out the preholiday schedule with a crushing 65-12 victory against a young Flagler outfit. Three of the Kiowa players will take double-figure averages into the new year. Jordan Gabehart has lead the way in the early goings averaging 13.4 points a game. He is followed by Conner Pierson with his 12.0 average and Caleb Smith, hitting 11.2 points a game. Pierson tops the team in rebounds to this date pulling down 7.8 miss shots a night. Smith is right behind with 6.2 rebounds, followed by Steven Mizak, 5.0 a game. The girls, coached by Mark Clemmons, opened the season with a 50-49 victory against Pikes Peak Christian, but have since fell on hard times. Clemmons will be looking for good things to come when the season resumes. Samantha Trehal, Rebecca Seward and Ashley Sandoval have the early season leaders for the Indians.

HAVE A STORY IDEA? Email your ideas to Sports Editor John Rosa at sports@ourcoloradonews.com or call him at 303-279-5541 ext. 243.

January 10, 2013

THE IRV & JOE SHOW M–F 1p–3p

LISTEN ONLINE www.milehighsports.com

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Irv Brown and Joe Williams are the longest-running sports talk tandem in the history of Denver radio. For more than 28 years, Irv Brown and Joe Williams have teamed to bring sports talk to fans in Denver. That tradition continues on Mile High Sports Radio.

PUBLIC NOTICE

e hot r the game unds sists. four Notice To Creditors ures. agedPUBLIC NOTICE pullNOTICE TO CREDITORS he isIn the Matter of the Estate of 11.8Theodore Leroy Berens Theodore L. Berens, Deceased aatz,A/K/A Case Number: 2012PR41

persons having claims against the oneAll above-named estate are required to present to the Personal Representbeenative orthem to the District Court of Elbert d thatCounty, Colorado on or before May 3, 2013 or the claims may be forever barred. st Kit S. Peters wasLinda Personal Representative t Ge-2861 North Velarde Dr. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 (805) 492-1484

theLegal Notice No: 927863 Publication: January 3, 2013 r theFirst Last Publication: January 17, 2013 nts aPublisher: Elbert County News othdate Noralso with

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Theodore Leroy Berens A/K/A Theodore L. Berens, Deceased Case Number: 2012PR41 All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before May 3, 2013 or the claims may be forever barred.

Notice To Creditors

Linda S. Peters Personal Representative 2861 North Velarde Dr. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 (805) 492-1484 Legal Notice No: 927863 First Publication: January 3, 2013 Last Publication: January 17, 2013 Publisher: Elbert County News PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Matter of the Estate of Michael John Keelser, aka Michael J. Keesler, Deceased Case Number: 2012 PR 50 All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before May 10, 2013 or the claims may be forever barred.

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Public Notice

NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Matter of the Estate of

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice To Creditors

NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the Matter of the Estate of

Michael John Keelser, aka Michael J. Keesler, Deceased Case Number: 2012 PR 50 All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before May 10, 2013 or the claims may be forever barred. Rachel L. Keesler Personal Representative 668 Alta Vista Alamogordo, NM 88310 Legal Notice No: 927867 First Publication: January 10, 2013 Last Publication: January 24, 2013 Publisher: Elbert County News

Highlands Ranch

All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Elbert County, Colorado on or before May 10, 2013 or the claims may be forever barred.

Notice To Creditors

Rachel L. Keesler Personal Representative 668 Alta Vista Alamogordo, NM 88310

Legal Notice No: 927867 First Publication: January 10, 2013 Last Publication: January 24, 2013 Publisher: Elbert County News

Government Legals Public Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that on Thursday, January 10, 2013, at 7:00 P.M., or as soon as possible thereafter, the Elbert County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing in the Exhibit Hall at the Elbert County Fairgrounds in Kiowa, Colorado, and on Wednesday, January 23, 2013, at 9:00 A.M., or as soon as possible thereafter, the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing in the Exhibit Hall at the Elbert County Fairgrounds in Kiowa, Colorado, or at such other time and place as these hearings may be adjourned, for a proposed amendment to the Elbert County Zoning Regulations, a proposed new Section 26, Oil and/or Gas Operations – Special Use Permit, with the “Definitions” becoming Section 27, and a proposed Memorandum of Understanding for oil and/or gas facilities in Elbert County, on file with the Elbert County Community and Development Services Office, 215 Comanche Street, Kiowa, Colorado 80117, telephone: 303.621.3141.

Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors.

Open and Welcoming

Sunday Worship 8:00 am Chapel Service 9:00 & 10:30 am

Little Blessings Day Care www.littleblessingspdo.com

CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING Affiliated with United Church of Religious Science

Sunday Services 10 a.m.

Castle Rock Recreation Center 2301 Woodlands Blvd, Castle Rock www.OurCenterforSpiritualLiving.org 720-851-0265



Sunday School 9:00 & 10:30 am

Sunday Worship 8:30 am |10:45 am Adult and youth education 9:40 am

“The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizens.”

 children’s classes, devotions and study Mark Weekly ason ColoradoBahais.org • 303 947 7540 Pikes  e fell Franktown

  

Trinity Lutheran Church & School

303-794-2683 Preschool: 303-794-0510 9203 S. University Blvd. Highlands Ranch, 80126

Legal Notice No.: 927852 First Publication: 8391 S.December Burnley 20, Ct.,2012 Last Publication: January 17, 2013 Ranch Publisher: Highlands The Elbert County News

(Next to RTD lot @470 & University)

Worship Services Sundays at 9:00am

303-791-3315

pastor@awlc.org www.awlc.org

Littleton

First Presbyterian Church of Littleton

Parker

www.gracecolorado.com

You are invited to worship with us:

8:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m.

1609 W. Littleton Blvd. (303) 798-1389 • www.fpcl.org

303-798-8485

Sunday Worship: 10:45AM & 6PM Bible Study: 9:30AM Children, Young People & Adults 4391 E Mainstreet, Parker, Colorado 80134 Church Office – (303) 841-3836

www.parkerbiblechurch.org

Horizon Community Church

A Christian Reformed Ministry

Sunday Worship 10am 2121 E. Dad Clark Drive Highlands Ranch, 80126

Trinity Lutheran School & ELC (Ages 3-5, Grades K-8)

www.horizoncommunity.org

303-791-2143

Pastor David Fisher Fellowship & Worship: 9:00 am Sunday School: 10:45 am 5755 Valley Hi Drive Parker, CO 303-941-0668

www.SpiritofHopeLCMC.org

Parker

Community Church of Religious Science Sunday services held in the historic Ruth Memorial Chapel at the Parker Mainstreet Center

Visit our website for details of classes & upcoming events.

303.805.9890

www.P a r k er C C R S.org P.O. Box 2945—Parker CO 80134-2945

Looking For a N ew Beginning ?

Join Us A Friendly Place to Worship

New Beginning Community Church

10550 S. Progress Way & Longs Way Parker, CO 80134

Sunday School for All Ages Coffee and Fellowship Praise and Worship Service Wed Evening Youth Fellowship

Lone Tree

Legal Notice No.: 927852 First Publication: December 20, 2012 Last Publication: January 17, 2013 Publisher: The Elbert County News

Where people are excited about God’s Word.

Sundays at 9:00 & 10:45 am Grace is on the NE Corner of Santa Fe Dr. & Highlands Ranch Pkwy. (Across from Murdochs)

Government Legals

Parker

...19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker 80138

Sunday

Notice is hereby given that on Thursday, January 10, 2013, at 7:00 P.M., or as soon as possible thereafter, the Elbert County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing in the Exhibit Hall at the Elbert County Fairgrounds in Kiowa, Colorado, and on Wednesday, January 23, 2013, at 9:00 A.M., or as soon as possible thereafter, the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing in the Exhibit Hall at the Elbert County Fairgrounds in Kiowa, Colorado, or at such other time and place as these hearings may be adjourned, for a proposed amendment to the Elbert County Zoning Regulations, a proposed new Section 26, Oil and/or Gas Operations – Special Use Permit, with the “Definitions” becoming Section 27, and a proposed Memorandum of Understanding for oil and/or gas facilities in Elbert County, on file with the Elbert County Community and Development Services Office, 215 Comanche Street, Kiowa, Colorado 80117, telephone: 303.621.3141.

Legal Notice No.: 927852 First Publication: December 20, 2012 Last Publication: January 17, 2013 Publisher: The Elbert County News

& Children’s Church 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship 8:00 & 10:45 a.m.

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Abiding Word Lutheran Church

An Evangelical s will Presbyterian Church into ehart Sunday Worship 10:30 y go- 4825 North Crowfoot Valley Rd. ame. Castle Rock • canyonscc.org rson 303-663-5751 Caleb CHRISTMAS AT CANYON’S ame. December 9th 6:30pm n re- Christmas Eve Service 6:30pm down  th is unds,  5.0 a

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PUBLIC NOTICE

Rachel L. Keesler Personal Representative 668 Alta Vista Alamogordo, NM 88310 Legal Notice No: 927867 First Publication: January 10, 2013 Last Publication: January 24, 2013 Publisher: Elbert County News

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Michael John Keelser, aka Michael J. Keesler, Deceased Case Number: 2012 PR 50

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Elbert County News 7

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Joy LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA

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8-COLOR

8 Elbert County News

January 10, 2013

Beef: Boys have been 4-H members since age 8

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Beef continues from Page 1

Both boys plan to fund their college educations through the family business, and already have their own growing heard of 35 animals. Cole hopes to at-

tend the University of Nebraska and study meat science, while Cauy plans on a degree in medicine. “We put the money from the sale of the animals into the bank,” said Cauy. “I also

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plan to rodeo while I’m in school, and that will help.” The Pennington boys have been members of 4-H since they were 8 years old and attend Kiowa Public Schools.

Heat: 16,000 received assistance during 2011 Heat continues from Page 1

County is that most people don’t need help, but Suzanne Greene, executive director of the Douglas/Elbert Task Force, is quick to point out that 16,000 individuals received assistance from the dual-county organization during 2011. “Every single person, every single client that comes here, we talk about resources to,” Greene said. “We not only talk about LEAP, but one of the requirements we have here at the Douglas/ Elbert Task Force is that if you are qualified to receive LEAP then you have to apply for LEAP in order for us to be able to assist you with any utilities. “One of the ways we define self-sufficiency here is by making use of available resources. The analogy I use with clients is that if you are eligible for LEAP and aren’t enrolled, it’s like having a winning lottery ticket and not cashing it in.” Whereas LEAP is an income-based program, the Douglas/Elbert Task Force itself is a needs-based organization, Greene said. “If someone has determined that they have need and they are not able to meet that need, they should call us,” she said. The task force offers clients the ability to take advantage of their food bank once every 30 days and free medical treatment on the first and third Wednesdays of the month for everything but emergency services. It also pays GED costs and portions of people’s rent. The organization also offers a unique birthday room where needy parents can pick out three to five gifts for a child or pick out a gift for the child to give another child when they are attending a birthday party so that they don’t have to show up empty-handed. For more information on the task force, contact 303688-1114 or stop in at 1638 Park St. in Castle Rock. For more information on LEAP, call 866-432-8435 or visit www.colorado.gov/cdhs/ leap. The application process can be done by mail.

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