GoldenInformer JULY 2020
The Ultimate Story of
REFORMATION
in a "New Normal"
GOLDEN'S REOPENING: SAFE & SUCCESSFUL
2020 Golden City Council
Laura Weinberg Mayor
JJ Trout District One
Rob Reed Ward One
Paul Haseman Ward Two
Casey Brown Mayor Pro Tem District Two
Jim Dale Ward Three
Bill Fisher Ward Four
303-241-9823 E-mail: lweinberg @cityofgolden.net
720-880-5084 E-mail: jtrout @cityofgolden.net
303-431-9891 E-mail: rreed @cityofgolden.net
303-513-2310 E-mail: phaseman @cityofgolden.net
303-900-2003 E-mail: cbrown @cityofgolden.net
303-916-0810 E-mail: jdale @cityofgolden.net
303-588-3389 E-mail: bfisher @cityofgolden.net
To contact the entire City Council, e-mail citycouncil@cityofgolden.net.
IN T H IS ISS U E
The Golden Informer is produced and published monthly by the Golden City Manager’s Office and mailed as a source of news and information to all residences and businesses inside the City limits. Comments on The Informer are welcome. Please write to: City of Golden 911 10th St., Golden, CO 80401 Attn: Karlyn Tilley Call 303-384-8132 or e-mail ktilley@cityofgolden.net.
Cover: file photo
3 Apply to Leadership Golden 4-5 Working Toward Inclusivity 6 Downtown Golden Re-opens 6 Changes at the GCC 7 Clear Creek Safety 10 Celebrating 30 Years 7 A Virtual July 4th of Life After Tragedy 8 Your Ideas are Needed! 13 M ovies and Music 9 New Way to Find Volunteer Opportunities in the Park..ing Lot 9 A Successful Start to Farmers Market 13 Rotary Peach Sale 11 Community Television Now Livestreaming 15 Porch Portraits City of Golden Department Managers
Jason Slowinski City Manager
Carly Lorentz Deputy City Manager
Dan Hartman Public Works
Steve Glueck Comm. & Econ. Development
Monica Mendoza City Clerk
Rod Tarullo Parks and Recreation
Bill Kilpatrick Police
Alicia Welch Fire Chief
Jeff Hansen Finance
Teresa Reilly Human Resources
Karlyn Tilley Communications
Jiles McCoy Innovation and Technology
303-384-8012 303-384-8063 303-384-8150 303-384-8095 303-384-8014 303-384-8120 303-384-8033 303-384-8090 303-384-8020 303-384-8017 303-384-8132 303-384-8010 clorentz@ jmccoy@ dhartman@ sglueck@ mmendoza@ rtarullo@ bkilpatrick@ awelch@ jhansen@ treilly@ ktilley@ jslowinski@ cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net
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HEADS UP: Important Upcoming Items
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No Fireworks in Golden
white Just a reminder from the Golden Fire Department (GFD) that fireworks of any kind are not or fieldallowed in Golden. Although the excitement of the professional fireworks display must be le. delayed, GFD will still be staffing and strictly following our no tolerance fireworks code.
This means it is prohibited for any person to possess, sell, furnish, give, use or ignite fireworks – even if they are legal in other parts of the state or county. The ban includes sparklers. If you hear or see fireworks in your neighborhood, you can call the non-emergency line for Jeffcom Dispatch at 303-980-7300. If it is an emergency such as a fire or injury due to a firework, please call 911 immediately.
DO YOUR
PART
Coffee with your Councilors Online Join your District One and District Two Councilors for a virtual chat, in place of the monthly in-person gathering. The councilors are committed to continuing this applications tradition and stillLimited follow social distancing guidelines. NOTE: This month, the virtual meeting will be the SECOND Saturday of the month since the first Saturday is Independence Day. It will be at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 11. To get the virtual invitation and join the meeting, visit www.cityofgolden.net/Calendar and look for this listing on July 11 with all the details.
Leadership Golden Now Accepting Applications Now in its 37th year, Leadership Golden is accepting applications for the 2020-21 Program. This tuition-free program provides local learning about Golden with 11 sessions from September through April, including Golden history, government, public works, finance, development, education, arts and recreation, and the justice system. Great program for new-comers and long-term residents interested in the fabric of Golden. Go to leadershipgolden.org for all the details and complete an application form online. The application deadline is July 31. To meet and dialog with the Leadership Golden Board of Directors, Steering Committee, and Alumni, you are invited to attend the “Meet and Greet” reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 16 at Café 13, corner of 13th and Arapahoe. Complimentary appetizers and a cash bar will be provided.
BGoldN Still Serving Meals A reminder that BGoldN continues to provide meals to anyone who wants or needs them. A subsidiary of the Golden Backpack Program, this food assistance program provides free, pre-packaged, made-fresh breakfasts and lunches, Monday through Friday for pick-up at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Bell Middle School, 1001 Ulysses St. The first come, first served meals are distributed by volunteers in drive-up fashion in front of the school. Meals are intended for people whose livelihoods have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and need help. BGoldN meals are prepared by a rotating schedule of Golden restaurants that agree to make the meals at a break-even cost, helping them to keep their doors open and staff employed while under current restrictions that only allow for take-out/delivery and limited seating. If you are unable to leave your home but need meals, email BGoldNcity@gmail.com or call 720-432-5048.
For the very latest information, visit www.HelpGoldenNow.org.
As of this writing, Council meetings are being held virtually instead of in-person. Please check the online council calendars for the very latest meeting information at www.cityofgolden.net/agendas.
July 9
Regular business meeting
July 16
Study session
July 23
Regular business meeting Council’s upcoming agendas, packets and meeting minutes are available online under the City Council link at www.CityofGolden.net. Public comment is welcome on the agenda at all regular business meetings. July 2020 | 3
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MAYOR’S MESSAGE By Mayor
#GoldenStrong
Laura Weinberg
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Looking Long-Term for Racial Equity
n June 7, I looked out over a crowd of hundreds in Parfet Park and had to pause and collect myself. A love and appreciation for our community overwhelmed me for a moment. The day before, my inner worries about saying the wrong thing or not finding the right words made me consider backing out from speaking. I chose and discarded so many thoughts and words as I wondered what I could possibly say at an event that really was not supposed to be about my voice. I do not know what it is like to be black in America. I continued to work to put words to paper with the understanding that my role was to speak as a leader in the community, as your Mayor. I needed to talk about Golden and who we were as a city, who we are now, and who we want to be in the future. As I looked at all the people gathered in the park wearing masks and holding signs, I was encouraged. There were fellow City Councilors, the Police Chief and Police Officers, neighbors and friends, and so many children, teens and young adults who gave me optimism. The next generations have a passion for righting wrongs, compassion for others, and a willingness to use their voices. My fervent wish is that they also use their vote. One of our Golden Vision 2030 values is a sense of community which includes diversity and tolerance of others. Council passed resolutions in 2007 and 2017 to be a diverse and inclusive city. On June 11th, Council passed a resolution declaring racism a public health crisis. Words state the intent, but it is the actions that make it a reality. City Council will meet in July to review current policies and practices and determine actions needed for immediate changes, and for practices that will ensure future decisions live up to these values. Now is the time to take a hard look at what we do here in Golden. We need to ask tough questions without easy answers such as: how can we look at our budget, policies, and practices through a racial equity lens; and how can we root out practices that allow inequities to persist in our community? I recognize that there is no single answer or solution but rather an ongoing effort is needed that will require the investment of both time and budget. There are tough conversations ahead and there will be many other situations where I struggle to find the right words. It is my privilege though to be serving as your Mayor during this time and working alongside dedicated, thoughtful council members and City staff. I may make mistakes and I may not move as fast as you would like, but I am committed to long-term change and know that together we are making Golden a better place for everyone.
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O
Reflecting on Recent Events
ver the last few months, the Golden Police Department (GPD) has received numerous inquiries as to our equipment, policies and training. In an effort to be completely transparent, we have compiled this information onto a webpage at www.cityofgolden. net/pd-policies-procedures-training. This information is not the end of the discussion, it’s just the beginning. These topics need conversation with our community so that we may continue with our mission to work together for a safe and inclusive culture. We hear your questions, frustrations, and concerns. Command Staff will have a dialogue with City Council on July 16 at a Study Session. For those who are unable to view the conversation live, the recording will be available the following day. We are always looking for ways to learn, grow, and improve. We look forward to working with you to make that happen. We hope you will take a moment to read this letter from Golden Police Chief Bill Kilpatrick.
TO OUR GOLDEN COMMUNITY, Over the course of the last several days I have been asked by many, as the City of Golden Police Chief, my thoughts on the death of Mr. George Floyd while being taken into custody by officers of the Minneapolis Police Department. Honestly, it feels like my heart has been torn to pieces and is broken. Broken for the senseless and unexplainable loss of Mr. Floyd’s life, broken for the unimaginable pain and suffering that Mr. Floyd’s family and friends will endure for the rest of their lives, broken for the terrible divide that is ripping apart the fabric of our nation, broken due to the continuing and ongoing violence that is occurring throughout the country and broken for the loss of faith in our police officers who work tirelessly to build trust among you, the public we serve. I have been in policing for a very long time and the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Floyd are deeply disturbing to me. There is no reasonable or rational explanation for what occurred. Let me be clear. What I saw in the video of the last minutes of Mr. Floyd’s life was repulsive, appalling and unconscionable. It goes against everything I believe in; the sanctity of life, the dignity of the human spirit, and our responsibility as humans, but most particularly as police officers, to treat all people with respect. I believe that each of us is responsible and accountable for our actions as well as for our failure to act. Therefore, it is my belief that those officers must be held to account in the criminal justice system for their behaviors. Behaviors which go against all that we, as police officers, stand for. I share in the grief that is being experienced as a result of Mr. Floyd’s death. And I know there is a path forward. It continues with our willingness to listen, learn, dialog and connect with those we serve. All organizations have a culture that shapes the behaviors of its members and its members shape the culture of the organization. This department of ours strives every day to create a culture of inclusiveness, community and respect.
On June 5, a group of Golden families, including many young children, peacefully gathered by Clear Creek for a “chalk the walk” event for Black Lives Matter. Photo courtesy of Whitney Duncan.
I take great pride in being your police chief and leading the women and men of the Golden Police Department. We have amazing individuals working here. They are highly competent, committed, motivated and dedicated people who endeavor to give their best to you, our Golden community, every day. They believe in our core values of teamwork, integrity, excellence, personal responsibility and professionalism. And they believe in the right of the people to peacefully protest. Their jobs are not easy and yet they seek, always, to try and do the right thing for the right reason. They have good hearts and good minds. No, we are not perfect, but I will tell you that our folks are as good as you will ever find anywhere. I know that through all that we are facing they will continue to provide high quality and honorable service to all they encounter. I hope that you are as proud of them and the work they do as I am. Respectfully, Bill Kilpatrick, Chief of Police July 2020 | 5
Downtown Back in Business
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t’s wonderful to see businesses back open and people shopping and eating downtown! However, the COVID-19 crisis is far from over. As a state and a community, we are experimenting with ways to be successful while also being safe. In June, as shops and restaurants began opening back up with limited seating, the City made a decision to block off street parking in key areas of downtown to allow for businesses to expand their operations beyond their front doors. So far, the increase in available outdoor space has received a lot of positive feedback from business owners, residents, and visitors. As crowds increase over the summer months, the barricades may expand to include full closures of certain blocks along Washington Avenue. We invite you to once again enjoy your favorite local places, but with a word of caution. The pandemic is not over, and it is important to help protect yourself and others when you are in public places. Many stores and restaurants require masks before entering their buildings. As a city, we strongly encourage you to wear a mask whether the store requires it or not. Follow the “Golden Rule” to protect others as you would want them to protect you.
PAID PARKING TO RETURN Paid parking and downtown parking enforcement will soon be re-instated, as parking demands increase and students return to campus. Please look for paid parking areas to resume charging in mid-July or early August. Any new information will be posted at www. cityofgolden.net and www.GuidingGolden.com/COVID19.
What to Expect at the Golden Community Center
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he Golden Community Center (GCC) is a beloved part of Golden and many residents have expressed how much they’ve missed visiting during the recent COVID closures. We’ve missed you too! In June, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment issued guidelines for the safe reopening of parks and recreation facilities, including the GCC. The facility opened for licensed childcare programs on June 15. This helps working parents get back to work by ensuring safe, reliable childcare. In the next phase, the GCC is reopening for individual fitness. The guidelines for reopening include capacity limits, social distancing, and strict disinfection requirements. The biggest change is that all guests must pre-register online for a specific time slot to visit. Find online registration at rec.cityofgolden.net. With strict capacity limits, we can only serve a set number of people at a time. We want you to know that when you visit, you’ll be able to come in on time and not have to wait in line for others to leave first. Online reservations allow us to do that. Weight room equipment is spread out a little more than normal and some pieces of equipment are closed. Social distancing is an imperative part of the new guidelines and we ask all our guests to give each other a little extra room and to pay attention to the signs on each piece of equipment to make sure it’s open and available for use.
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You will see Community Center staff hard at work throughout your workout on these efforts. While we always ask our guests to clean equipment both before and after use, now we will also ask guests to mark any piece of equipment they use as “Needs Staff Attention” after they finish. That will alert staff to give that equipment an extra bit of disinfection before the next guest uses it. In addition, there will also be a disinfection station at the back of the weight room for hand weights, weight clips, kettlebells and other small pieces of equipment. After you’re done using any of these items, just drop it off in the disinfection station and a staff member will thoroughly disinfect it before placing it back out on the rack. And just for good measure, the entire facility will close for a disinfection break between each time slot. This will give staff time to disinfect every piece of equipment again before the next group comes in, as well as all high touch points and restrooms. In addition, the facility will continue to be serviced each night by custodial staff. Some of you might not be quite ready to come back. In that case, don’t miss our online group exercise classes. You can still stay active even if you’re at home. At some point we will look at reopening the pool, the Front Porch, and other amenities. We can’t wait to see you again at the Golden Community Center! Working together, we can make this reopening a healthy, safe and sustainable experience!
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Clear Creek and COVID
hen the water in Clear Creek is fast and furious, it’s not too hard to convince people they should stay out for their own safety. But it’s much harder to convince people to stay out when they can’t see the threat – COVID-19. This spring, the Jefferson County Sheriff and Golden Police Chief jointly agreed that the waterways should be closed to all users as we navigated the pandemic. The creek was first re-opened to vessels, whitewater canoes, and kayaks. As June rolled along, more and more people wondered when the creek might open back up for tubers. Opening the creek to tubers and swimmers inevitably increases traffic and draws crowds. However, as restrictions eased state-wide, law enforcement made the decision to open the creek to everyone once the water levels were down to 500cfs (cubic feet per second). Check out the status of Clear Creek at www.GuidingGolden.com/COVID19. It’s important to remember that moving water at any level and speed is potentially dangerous and even deadly. The rapidly changing creek conditions routinely catch ill prepared and unaware visitors off guard. Clear Creek claims the lives of many skilled adventure-seekers as well as casual users, so caution and the use of safety equipment is always strongly advised. Safety equipment is considered a personal flotation device (ideally a life vest) and a helmet. The Golden Fire Department (GFD) answers the call to rescue any individual needing assistance in the City limits and through
most of Clear Creek Canyon. River rescue calls are dangerous, time and manpower-intensive responses that deplete resources for other calls in the City limits of Golden. The GFD encourages everyone to enjoy and admire the power of the creek from the shore this runoff season, with appropriate social distancing. If you do enter the waterway, protect yourself by wearing a life jacket and helmet.
A FIRST FOR THE FOURTH
Y
ou don’t need to leave your back yard to be part of Golden’s traditional Independence Day celebration! Since we can’t come together for the big festival, the Golden Lions Club is bringing it to you – virtually – for a July 4th community party with virtual and digital ways to participate. The Golden Lions are partnering with local eateries and breweries in the community for a day of fine food. Order the “Lions Special” (locations will be updated on the Golden Lions Facebook page) and receive your own 4th of July swag bag! If you’re out and about downtown, keep an eye out for volunteers wearing the signature yellow Lions vest, because the club will be passing out goodies on Saturday, July 4th as well. Watch Facebook LIVE as they have events coming to you from various parts of town, comedian clips, and live music segments. Sponsored contests will include ‘Most Patriotic Pet’, ‘Best Home Face Painting’, and more. And for the must have - must see - not to be missed – fireworks show, you’ll get that too! At 8 p.m., the Golden Lions will broadcast, in conjunction with the City of Golden, a previous Golden fireworks show on social media, Channel 8, and GCO.TV (now available on Roku, and Apple TV)! For more information, follow the Golden Lions Club FB page: https://facebook.com/goldenlionsclub. July 2020 | 7
US 6 and Heritage Interchange Design Begins
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s you’ve driven, walked, biked, or lived near the intersection of US 6 and Heritage Road, no doubt you’ve thought of ways it could be improved. Now is the time to give us all your thoughts and ideas. Golden, in partnership with Jefferson County and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), completed a review of consulting firms that responded to a request for proposal. Muller Engineering was selected to be the lead consultant for the design of the US 6 and Heritage Road interchange. Muller was our lead engineer on the Linking Lookout project, and we are all excited to get started with the design. Before we do, it’s important that we hear from you. Due to the pandemic, we are looking for creative ways to get public input and have thought of ideas such as setting up a drive-in movie screen, or drive-thru review and comment lane. While we continue to look at a variety of ways to get public input, you can always see project details and share your thoughts and ideas on Guiding Golden www.guidinggolden.com. Our first community meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29. The format will be posted on Guiding Golden, as well as the City’s weekly e-newsletter, social media, and the City website. This meeting will focus completely on the outcomes the community expects from the project. We are not
looking for specific design ideas, rather what are the values and goals that we hope to meet as a community. For example, it could be big things like pedestrian safety and comfort, or smaller things like the desire to hear birds when in the area. We will make the meeting as interactive as possible as we hear your thoughts and answer your questions. We encourage you to join us for the first meeting on July 29. If you cannot make that date, you will find other opportunities to participate on Guiding Golden. We will collect all your input through Wednesday, Aug. 12.
Here is a look at how your active participation is helping to shape the future of Golden. Visit these pages to access documents and learn more about these current projects and more. GOLDEN BUILDING BLOCKS – Help us better sustainability goal areas: Water, Waste, or Energy. Read
understand the elements of our City’s homes, buildings, their findings and give us your feedback. and streets that best reflect Golden’s small-town character. GOLDEN MOBILITY SURVEY – Help us understand Take a walk, take pictures, and share with the community! how the City is doing with efforts to provide biking, walking SOUTH GOLDEN PLAN – Coming soon - your and transit options for the community. The survey explores opportunity to provide feedback on a new neighborhood topics such as mobility preferences, desired travel plan update that will focus on potential new development distances, and potential barriers that hinder alternative along West Colfax. We will also explore the redevelopment transportation options in Golden. of West Colfax as a complete street. COVID-19 – As more businesses reopen under the new SUSTAINABILITY CITIZEN TASK FORCES - Over state guidelines and we all try to find a new normal, we’ll the past few months, a series of sustainability task force continue to update Guiding Golden with the most up-tomeetings have been held, each focused on one of three date information available.
8 | July 2020
New Way to Find Volunteer Opportunities in Golden
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ou’ve probably heard many times how great the volunteer community is in Golden. But finding a way to be part of it isn’t always easy. It’s hard to research each program and nonprofit for what might fit you best. At long last, Golden has a new way to find community volunteer opportunities online at www.volunteergoldenco.org. Thanks to a partnership among the City, the Golden Civic Foundation, Kim Mangle Consulting LLC, and Spark the Change Colorado, the website fulfills a longstanding community desire to facilitate volunteerism in Golden. The website is easy to use. Nonprofit profiles show volunteer opportunities, openings for board members, and needed donations. Residents, families, students, and groups register for free
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accounts and search by area of interest, age of volunteer, date, availability, and more to find the type of volunteering that works for them. In addition, the new website helps businesses set up employee volunteer programs and service days, plus offers training and
other information for both nonprofits and volunteers. For more information, contact: Robin Fleischmann, City of Golden, r f l e i s c h m a n n @ c i tyofg o l d e n . n e t , 303-384-8080 or Kim Mangle, kim@ mangleconsulting.com, 303-282-3962.
Shop Safe & Local Shop Safe Shop Safe at Farmers’ &Markets Local & Local
Farmers Market Overcomes Challenges
he Golden Chamber of Commerce’s at Farmers’ at Farmers’ Farmers Market began in June and is Shop Safe & Local Markets Markets proving that it is possible to be safe and still provide great service. The Chamber’s Executive Director, Nola Krajewski, says the changes are noticeable, but she’s seen great respect and support for the new rules. “Almost everybody has been wearing a mask, staying far apart, being patient… and we are so grateful for that.” As a part of the food and agriculture supply chain, farmers markets are deemed essential businesses. As you can imagine, running a farmer’s market during a public health crisis and in the era of social distancing is not without its challenges; but vendors are more than willing to take the extra steps. “We’re wearing gloves and changing them and having hand sanitizer Have fun, enjoy the fresh air & delicious local products! ready for both us and customers, and keeping our distance, and wearing masks,” said Noah Zinter of Bjorn’s Colorado Honey. “Making small but very Have fun, enjoy the products! fresh air & delicious local produ Have fun, enjoy the fresh air & delicious local important adjustments in order to make this a thing we can continue to do.” Due to distancing guidelines, there will be fewer vendors (food only), booths spaced eight feet apart, and indicators for customer spacing as well. Know you might have to wait in line to enter the market. Hand washing and hand sanitizing stations will be numerous and placed throughout the market. Face coverings are required, and the Chamber has them available for you if you forget yours. As the guidelines and the public health requirements evolve, the Market will adapt. We encourage you to stay healthy and shop safely, while supporting our community of local farmers and food makers. Do not enter the market if you: • are sick or have any COVID-19 symptoms • traveled outside the state in the last 14 days • have been exposed to anyone who is sick or traveled out of state
Follow directional signs posted at entrances, exits, and throughout the market
Do not enter the market if you: Do not enter the market if you: • are sick or have any COVID-19 symptoms • are sick or have any COVID-19 symptoms Follow directional signs • traveled outside the state in the last posted 14 daysat entrances, exits, • traveled outside the state in the last 14 days • have beenout exposed to anyone who is sick or traveledthe outmarket of state • have been exposed to anyone who is sick or traveled of state and throughout
Maintain social distancing: keep 6 ft. from other shoppers and vendors
Maintain social distancing: keep 6 ft. from other shoppers and vendors
Limit one shopper per household & please shop quickly to reduce exposure
Limit one shopper per household & please shop quickly to reduce exposure
Cover your mouth and nose
Use handwashing/sanitizing stations when appropriate
Maintain social keep 6 ft.Use handwashing/sanitizing Cover your mouth Cover yourdistancing: mouth from other and vendors stations when appropriate and nose andshoppers nose
Wash all produce as soon as you get home: visit fns.usda.gov for tips
LimitWash one shopper per household all produce as & please shop home: soon as you get quickly reduce exposure visitto fns.usda.gov for tips
Follow dire posted at e and through
Use handwas stations whe
No pets except for certified service animals
Wash all produce as No pets soonfor ascertified you get home: except visit fns.usda.gov service animals for tips
July 2020 | 9
N excep serv
A Story of Resilience We All Need Right Now
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nofficially, Tom Young’s career in the fire service began when he was 16 years old, taking pictures of fire scenes for the Golden and Fairmount fire departments. Years later, on July 6, 1982, Tom was sworn in as a volunteer firefighter with the Golden Fire Department (GFD). Eight years later, on that same date, Tom’s life would change forever. As a member of the elite rescue squad, Tom responded to a call on July 6, 1990 to help assist with a hang glider who crashed on the side of Lookout Mountain. Tom was supposed to be headed home to have dinner with his wife, Linda, and their two small children. He called Linda to let her know he was headed to the rescue call instead. The glider pilot, in critical condition, was on a steep incline and Tom realized a helicopter would be necessary to get him to safety. When the chopper arrived, they were concerned that the glider could get sucked into the blades, endangering the rescuers in the air. Tom attempted to hold onto the glider, but his body weight wasn’t enough, and he found himself airborne before falling vertically 15 feet to the ground and fracturing his neck. The spinal cord injury would permanently leave him paralyzed from the neck down. “I went from rescuer to victim in a split second and I then became the critical patient,” recalls Tom. Tom spent 28 days in Intensive Care and was told he may never breathe on his own again. Then something amazing happened. “Over 250 people walked from Golden to St. Anthony’s Hospital to raise money for my expenses,” said Tom. “That day I was taken off the ventilator and was able to breathe on my own. The love and support were healing powers way beyond what any doctor could perform.” After months of rehab, Tom finally got to go back home. He learned
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Tom was part of a running team with the Golden Fire Department before his accident.
Tom went from rescuer to victim in a split second. The glider pilot he was trying to save improved and was stable when they were both transported to St. Anthony's Hospital.
how to be a father, a husband, and a GFD employee in a wheelchair. Linda spent 15 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week by his side. “It is that support system that gave me the drive to overcome overwhelming depression that I was experiencing for the first two years. To be able to see my children grow up and begin careers related to the one I love; to be able to see my children’s children and still be able to contribute my part to the residents of Golden and the Golden Fire Department are priceless.” Just 2½ years after his debilitating injury, Tom was back at work at GFD as a media specialist… and with a new pair
of hands. Anna Trzeciak started as Tom’s aide but realized quickly she had to learn the technical parts of his job for which she had no prior experience. “Tom is very resilient, patient and compassionate,” said Anna. “It always surprises me that he never complained about having such a slow assistant.” Now, 20 years later, the pair are still working as one. Anna adds, “Tom does not waste time when he is at the GFD, he is always looking for new projects. It is my privilege to know and work with him for so many years.”
Tom is a motivational speaker as well and happily shares his story. Tom and Linda’s son, Matt, followed in dad’s footsteps and was just promoted to Engineer at North Metro Fire Rescue. Their daughter, Michelle, was recently hired as an emergency communication specialist for JeffCom Dispatch. Tom is also a proud grandfather. This day and age of the COVID-19 pandemic has forced all of us to recognize how precious and fragile life can be. As a society, we are (Above) Tom and his work partner Anna more aware of our vulnerabilities. have enjoyed their 20 years together Tom must smile when he hears at GFD. these words in the news. After all, (Right) He and his wife Linda enjoy time it’s something Tom has now known with their two granddaughters, Madison (4) and Hadley (2). for 30 years. “When I was first injured, the doctors told me that I may live 15 to 20 years post injury; this July 6, 2020 will be 30 years. I have a very strong support system that begins with my faith in Jesus Christ, my wife Linda, my family and extends to the Golden Fire Department family, the Golden community and fire service across the world.” Our sincerest congratulations, Tom, on 30 years of survival and living your best life.
July 2020 | 11
Social, Economic & Environmental Issues
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A Blooming Good Time in Rimrock
ike many Golden residents, Patrick Scher of the Rimrock subdivision has been busy with gardening projects this summer. In 2019, Patrick participated in a free “Grass to Garden” pilot program which offered Golden residents the technical expertise and the materials needed to remove their grass and replace it with low-water plants. After last fall’s project that converted 300 square feet, Patrick feels more confident to tackle other parts of his lawn. He has already converted another 100 square feet this spring. Interested in a similar transformation for your lawn? Residents who complete a Slow the Flow audit can also request a free lawn removal consultation and will be connected with a trained ReSource Central technician for a 45-minute in-person consultation that provides inspiration, landscaping ideas, and estimated expenses for removing and replacing thirsty lawns. Visit resourcecentral.org/landscapeconsultations or call 303-999-3820 Ext 221.
Just Like a Car, Your Sprinklers Need an Occasional Tune Up
W STAY COOL AND SAVE MONEY Looking to replace windows or buy a new evaporative cooler? Xcel Energy has $300 instant rebates for qualifying products. Mail-in rebates of up to $1,200 are also available from Xcel Energy for premium and multi-ducted premium coolers. Evaporative coolers, also known as swamp coolers, typically cost less than a central air conditioner to purchase and install. They cool homes much more quickly than an air conditioner and use 50-75% less electricity. Learn more at www.xcelenergy.com/ evaporativecooling, or find a participating contractor at www.xcelenergy.com/cotrades.
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hen components of your sprinkler go un-maintained, they can waste a lot of water over the summer! ReSource Central’s sprinkler technicians are here to help get your system back in order and ensure it’s working as efficiently as possible. Ensure your sprinklers are working for you, not wasting your water, by signing up for a FREE Slow the Flow consolation at resourcecentral.org/slowtheflow or by calling 303-999-3824.
FREE
SPRINKLER CHECK-UP!
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Slow the Flow
Stay Green, Save Blue. Maintain a beautiful landscape while saving water with a FREE sprinkler consultation!
THE RATTLESNAKE REALITY
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olden’s beautiful landscape attracts all kinds of people who love the outdoors. But it also attracts another type of visitor… one not so friendly. Rattlesnakes are a common site in our town. They are more active during the warmth of the day, but during extremely hot times they will seek shade and cover. If you encounter a rattlesnake, the best thing you can do is to freeze when you hear the rattle, locate the snake, then slowly back away. These venomous reptiles are primarily defensive in nature, so the rattle is a warning to let you know they are there. Best practices for hikers are to wear high boots, pay attention to your surroundings (no ear buds), and stay on the trail. This goes for your dog as well - keep them leashed and safe. If you are bitten, call 911 or get to an
• Trim up plantings to remove hiding places. • Avoid building rock walls if possible • If you attract mice, you attract snakes who want to eat them. To keep mice away: - No bird feeders—dropped seed increases rodent population - Clean your BBQ grills well - No trash, dog food, or dropped fruit emergency room right away. Often lying around bites are “dry” which means there is no - No water features venom, but you should get checked out If a rattlesnake is in a location that to be sure. If your pet is bitten, quickly presents a hazard to humans, call get them to a veterinarian or animal the Golden Police Department nonhospital. emergency dispatch at 303-980-7300 Rattlesnakes may also be uninvited and they will try to relocate it. If the guests around your home. There are snake is in a natural location such as an some things you can do to make your open space trail, it is best to just leave it house less attractive to the snakes: alone and let it move on at its own pace.
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Rotary Peach Sale
espite a hard freeze that wiped out the Palisade peach crop this year, the Rotary Club of Golden was still able to get fresh Colorado peaches for you to buy during their annual peach sale. This year, you have the opportunity to get juicy, locally grown peaches from Orchard Valley Farms & Market, located in the North Fork Valley. Go online to reserve your peaches at www.RotaryClubOfGolden.org/Peaches. The cost is $40 per box. Peaches will no longer be picked up at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Peach Pickup Day is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29 in the Golden High School parking lot, 710 24th St. It will be a curbside pickup so that safe distancing can be maintained. If you have further questions, email GoldenRotaryPeaches@ gmail.com.
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Ensure your dog’s park visit does not negatively impact the park, wildlife or other visitors.
Protect your dog. Leashed dogs are less likely to run away or be injured. Protect wildlife. Dogs naturally give chase, even to things they shouldn’t, such as deer, elk, bears and rattlesnakes. Protect yourself. You are legally responsible if your unleashed dog attacks another dog or person.
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Leash & ID License ags Poop B Water Bowl Treats
Respect others. Dogs are unpredictable. Your dog may be friendly, but other people and dogs may not want your dog to approach them. Be respectful of others’ safety and comfort.
Protect the environment. Dog waste doesn’t break down like wild animal waste. Dog waste pollutes our soil and water. Protect public health. Dog waste contains harmful organisms like E. coli, giardia, salmonella, roundworms, hookworms and cryptosporidium. All of these can be passed on to people and other animals through surface water run-off or on the bottom of a shoe. Protect the park experience. Poop smells and is a terrible waste of scenery.
Porch Portraits
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n April, we heard about the porchportrait phenomenon out East and in Canada while many folks across the country were living under stay-at-home orders to slow the spread of COVID-19. Outof-work photographers were documenting people from a safe distance outside on their porches or decks. Basically, they were creating a visual record of the times. Porch portraits had already spread to Colorado by the time I caught wind. Photographer Kate Fisher from Lafayette captured about 200 portraits, asking each participant to also write a message to the community. It inspired me to try the same here in Golden. Time was of the essence since it was unknown how long stay-at-home orders would remain in effect. I reached out to one of our go-to museum photographers, Justin LeVett, and then got on the phone to secure permission from about a dozen Golden residents living in the 80401 zip code. With permission to photograph inhand, I passed the task of scheduling off to our trusty photographer. A shortened timeline and modest budget allowed for eight porch-portrait sessions. The portraits turned out great, and we are working on completing the online records. They capture a moment in time that has already passed. However, the trend of sitting on the front porch seems to be sticking around. It’s been such a fun project. We are always interested in hearing your ideas for capturing the essence of this unusual moment in time.
Betty and Thomas Gleaton live in the house her grandparents built on East Street.
Julie Bartos and her daughters, Katja & JuJu Behrens, spend some quality mother-daughter time on their back deck.
~ Mark Dodge, Curator Photos by: Justin LeVett Photography www.justinlevett.com
(Left) Peter and Beverly Ewers enjoy fresh air on the porch of their historic downtown home. (Right) CSM grad Byron Walker has lived in his Golden home since 1980.
Golden History Museum & Park • 923 10th St. • 303-278-3557 Check GoldenHistory.org for hours of operation, calendar of programs, and special event details. July 2020 | 15
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Golden business owners need your help. As we begin to reopen, our local business owners will need our help to ensure that they're able to stay open. Before you head to a big box store, see if there's a place in Golden where you can get the same item. Consider donating to BGoldN to support restaurants and help with food security in the community or by purchasing a gift card through GiftGoldN to support retailers.
Goldenites! Stake your claim at your favorite small business during Gold Rush Weekend. Rediscover your town and show your support for our small businesses. Stay tuned for dates and event details!
UPCOMING EVENT
Shop Local. Buy Golden.
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