s
Riva Reader | May – June 2013
RIVA READER Gets a New Look
16 Golden FasTracks W Line Opens in Golden
13 8
Evacuation Report Jefferson Co. Sheriff’s Dept.
CLEAN UP DAY June 8, 2013
Plus Riva Chase Real Estate Report FHMD Report Fire Mitigation News May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
1
2
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
May Photo / June 2013 | Riva 3 Courtesy ofReader Roz Birkelo
From the Editor As some of you may have noticed, the Riva Reader is getting a face lift. This platform is now readable in magazine style via Issuu.com, a free online publication program. What’s nice about Issuu.com, besides the obvious page flipping style and the fact that it’s free, is that you can view it via your computer using Flash, or the smart device of your choice (even iPhone or iPad), as well as have the option to download the pdf for your records. Roz Birkelo
Now that you know about what we plan for future issues, let me start off by thanking Kay Talley for all her dedication over the years in providing our Homeowners with a great deal of information via the Riva Reader. She paved the way for me to step in and continue the tradition, and I want her to know that all her hard work provided a great base for future issues of the Riva Reader. I hope everyone will find this new format for our Riva Reader easy to navigate, informative, and something you look forward to every other month. I also want to thank Chuck Silverman for his expertise in our slogan and the genius behind branding our neighborhood. Those of us that live here know it’s a dream come true. Now we’re going to let the rest of the world know. In that spirit, I also want to thank all my contributing writers. I leaned on those that I knew to help me out with this issue and I appreciate them so much for their contribution. That being said, I hope that anyone who has a story to tell regarding our community, upcoming events, past events, or any interesting news, will consider contributing to our magazine. Just drop me a note and let me know your thoughts and we’ll talk about how we can make it work.
Roz is currently the Secretary for the HOA. She has a Bachelor in Arts and Art Education with an emphasis on Graphic Design. She is currently working as a Sr. Engineering Technician for the Bill Barrett Corporation in downtown Denver.
4
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Finally, I want your pictures. If you have any pictures you’d like to submit for the magazine, please send me high resolution photos. I’m especially interested in ones I can use for the covers (portrait style, negative space at the top). I’m also interested in getting your feedback and any errors you see so that I can correct them and re-upload the magazine with corrections. So please contribute. Please give me feedback. And please be a part of this great tool for our community!
Warm regards,
13
Contents
May / June 2013
in every issue
Cover Photo Courtesy of Roz Birkelo
7
hoa president’s message
8
real estate report
22
fhmd report
25
acc reminder
39
board meeting minutes
40
financial report
28
bible study news
10
Clean up Day / Trimming
29
book club news
13
Jefferson County Sheriff’s report / Evacuation drill
34
neighbor to neighbor
Fire Mitigation
41
15
classified
16
RTD W Line Opens
18
Meet your HOA BOD
20
Annual Meeting Election of Officers
26
Adopt a Place in RC
30
Buy Golden Week
32
Alpaca Awareness Month
30
Facts about Sunscreen
36
Riva Chase Homes for Sale
in this issue
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
5
6
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Photo Courtesy of Roz Birkelo
President’s Message by Joy Lawrance
Thank you for your support over the past years. I have enjoyed my position because it allows me to reflect on and work towards making Riva Chase the best it can be. As well, I’ve made some good friends in the process. We have a wonderful community. It’s so great to come up the I-70 hill, pass the hogback, and enter this mountain haven. It is my sincere hope that the residents of RC continue to support those who volunteer their efforts on your behalf – and I also hope that you will consider getting involved in some way. We have many options, and a few neighborhood meeting groups - Book Club and Bible Study, for instance, along with the outdoor sorts who hike, walk or bike together.
Joy Lawrance President, Riva Chase HOA
We will be having our Annual Homeowners’ Meeting on June 19 (see details page 20). At that time, we invite you to attend and vote on a Board of Directors. Should you be interested in running for a position, just let any board member know. With this new Riva Reader format, we hope that you will find it easier to locate the information you need, and will learn some interesting things about RC and life in the foothills.
Gate Clickers HOA Board member, Gary Sohrweid, is holding the clicker inventory. Please contact him at 303-526-1378 for lost or additional clickers. The resident must provide name, address, phone, email, signature, and date at the time of acquiring a gate clicker. The board member will then call the FHMD Board so
by Gary Sohrweid
the clicker can then be activated. Please allow one business day for the clicker to be operational. The Resident’s clicker number and information is put into the gate control system. The cost of the new clicker will be added to the resident’s water bill. Each clicker is sold at cost, $50.00
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
7
Riva Chase
by Jerry Ballard
A best kept secret?
Even though Debbie & I have only resided in Riva Chase since 2006, we have been visiting friends and relatives in this fantastic community since the early 90’s when we resided in Arvada, Colorado. Back then, we never imagined that we would one day have the opportunity to actually live here. Up until 2000 when we entered the real estate business, our former careers in the electronic and pharmaceutical industries took us to several different parts of the country where we have lived in a variety of Grant. Our grandson’s first homes, neighborhoods and fishing experience cultures, all of which were – Riva Chase great experiences. We have lived in homes ranging from a peaceful rural setting all the way to the other spectrum in one of the most beautiful and manicured areas of the country with over 80 golf courses.
the convenience of a short 20-30 minute drive to Denver and still enjoy Colorado’s fantastic mountain recreation in an hour or so? Where else could you enjoy these conveniences in a gated community, one of the safest neighborhoods in Jefferson County? Whether you like to take a nice stroll and enjoy the scenery or get a real running workout, it’s here. Just looking out your window at times can be like watching “Animal Planet” in high definition. We could go on and on but truly, we believe Riva Chase’s greatest asset is the people. We have never lived in a community with so many friendships and where neighborly willingness to help others is so evident. Whether a block party, a progressive dinner, a gazebo get together at the pond, enjoying the evening on the deck with friends, or even our annual clean-up day, we just know how to make it fun. With life’s hectic schedules these days, sometimes we have to remind ourselves how grateful we are to live in one of the best kept secrets in the Denver area. The real estate business can be a bittersweet experience for us when selling homes in our own neighborhood…..a friend departs but a new friend arrives.
Having said all that, Riva Chase is just plain special. Where else could you live in a peaceful, mountain-like setting with
1 Year Trend
Average DOM 4-‐mos to 4/30/12
Average DOM 4-‐mos to 4/30/13
1 Year Trend
$850,000 $656,326 $740,000 $582,500
106% 133% -‐29% 163%
187 124 161 108
570 82 173 67
304% -‐34% 107% -‐38%
$616,278 $527,208
120% 113%
204 200
123 114
-‐40% -‐43%
Average Price Average Price 4-‐mos to 4-‐mos to 4/30/12 4/30/13
Homes Sold 4-‐mos to 4/30/2012
Homes Sold 4-‐mos to 4/30/2013
1 Year Trend %
Riva Chase Genesee Spring Ranch Lookout Mountain/Paradise Hills
3 10 2 2
1 14 2 2
-‐67% 140% 0% 0%
$801,667 $494,872 $1,047,303 $357,750
Mountain Jefferson County (MJC) North Evergreen (MEN)
35 68
29 88
-‐17% 129%
$511,464 $466,660
Foothills neighborhoods Year to Year Trend
Home inventory levels in the Denver area are at it's lowest in 28 years. The number of buyers remains roughly the same year to year but with inventory low, home prices are rising due to demand larger than supply. In 1985, when inventories were this low, the interest rate was around 13%. With sub 4% interest rates today, the demand for available homes remains strong. This cycle continues as sellers are reluctant to sell their homes without first finding a replacement property. All data taken from Metrolist, Inc. Denver, Colorado
8
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Pricing Your Home to Get Top Dollar Your Listing Price Determines the Buyer Traffic Asking Price
10 to 15% above market
10%
Market Value
10% Below
The Buyer Pool
Percentage of Prospective Buyers Willing to Look At Your Home
Percentage of Price Retained from 30 to 120 Days
60%
90%
There are several factors that determine the success of selling a home at the highest possible market price. One of the primary factors is pricing the home correctly. This graphic is a representation of what a seller can expect as a result of what price they list their home at. The most successful sellers price their home to attract the largest pool of buyers in the market value range. Sellers that are highly motivated by timing alone may chose to price their home at the lower end or below market value to achieve a fast sale. On the other end of the scale, it is always tempting to price the home above market value in hopes that a “special” buyer will come along and fall in love with the home. That strategy is rarely successful. In fact, the home may eventually be stigmatized from being on the market for a significant number of days without an offer. Buyers, as well as agents may begin to perceive that there is something wrong with the home. Over time, the seller usually comes to the realization that their expectations may have been unrealistic and they adjust the price closer to market value. At this point, the excitement by potential buyers and agents is usually passed and that traffic has already left to purchase other properties. If the seller has a mortgage, many times the difference between overpricing and actual market value is the interest the seller paid while the home remained on the market. Keep in mind, if that “special” buyer does show up, the home will still have to make it through the appraisal process for the buyer’s mortgage. Don’t make that mistake. Have your Realtor determine the real market value by carefully compiling a comparables market analysis and set up a tour to show you competing homes on the market. These actions will help you can determine how to achieve the highest market price in the shortest period of time. - jb
Ballard Professionals
Real Estate Group, Inc. BallardProfessionals@comcast.net
www.BallardProfessionals.com
3 03 -526-1933
Jerry & Debbie Ballard Service ~ Ethics ~ Knowledge 5280 Magazine Five-Star Real Estate Professionals Award 2011, 2012 & 2013 #1 in Riva Chase Home Sales - Providing our Friends and Neighbors with Professional Real Estate Services
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
9
Clean-up Day
by Winston Nutt
What is Clean-up Day? And how you can help. ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW First, Clean your yard; rake and bag the small stuff and place it along with tree branches alongside the road prior to Saturday, June 8th, for collection by volunteers. Second, volunteer if possible! Meet your neighbors at the trout pond at 8 AM on Saturday, June 8th. We’ll have trailers and organize groups to collect the bagged clippings, and branches for chipping into roll-off containers. Third, attend the free picnic at 1:00; a great social time. All residents are welcome, you don’t have to be a volunteer. Finally, a necessary request—no household trash please! We won’t have room for it in the roll-off containers. IN THE BEGINNING - - - - - - there was trash! Born of the idea that residents wanted to improve community appearance, Cleanup Day originated about 182 moons ago. Riva Chase was then in the waning period of a multi-year building boom with numerous houses still under construction. Wind-blown trash was ubiquitous, especially in the rights-of-way alongside roads and in the common areas. The original goal was to spend a day removing trash and cleaning up the community for the benefit of all. OVER THE PAST 14 YEARS Cleanup Day has evolved to include planting and improving the appearance around the guard house, creating defensible space, forestry health and fire mitigation. Residents are encouraged to clear and maintain a defensible space around their homes by removing undergrowth and brush close to the house, trimming trees and bushes, and creating a fireresistant clear space. Volunteers dedicated to this same proposition are working weekends, as they did last year, trimming and thinning the common areas prior to Cleanup Day. A FINAL NOTE Of the 39 Cleanup Day volunteers in the summer of 1999, merely 11 still reside in Riva Chase; a turnover of 72%. Hence, this explanation of Cleanup Day. Photos from 2012 Clean-up Day and Picnic Courtesy of Roz Birkelo Winston Nutt, May 2012 10
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
2013 CLEAN-UP DAY Saturday, June 8th Beginning 8:00 a.m. and ending with a picnic at the Gazebo at 12:30 p.m. All Welcome.
EDITORIAL Managing Editor / Creative Director Roz Birkelo
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jerry Ballard Roz Birkelo Colleen Brisben Jenifer Doane Adam Goldman Deena Green Dale & Cheri Kinzler Winston Nutt Renee Schreiner Dick Shaw Kim Taha Sherri Teter John Carpenter Ted Laves Joy Lawrance Gary Sohrweid
We’d love to hear from you! Send us comments, questions, or letters to the editor or submissions for consideration. EMail to: Roz Birkelo rivareader@gmail.com (303) 506-713
For classified, please contact rivareader@gmail.com To add your name to our mailing list, please contact the Riva Reader at rivareader@gmail.com
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
11
Tree Thinning
by Dick Shaw
Eastwood Road tree thinning Guidelines for Spring 2013 The purpose of the thinning is to accomplish the following priorities: 1. Improve the health of the trees by allowing them more space, sunlight, nutrition and water by minimizing the damage done by overcrowding and neglect. This will decrease the stress on the trees that are left and should improve their survival rate and resistance to a pine beetle infestation. 2. Enhance the appearance of our community by removing sick, damaged and over crowded trees by thinning them to achieve a healthier and better maintained look. 3. Reduce the risk of wildfire. The overcrowding and effects of the drought have created a number of areas along Eastwood Drive that are high risk areas for fire to spread. Some of these dense pine thickets could easily catch fire and rapidly burn if an ignition source were present. These small fires could quickly turn into large fires on the adjacent properties. LIMITATIONS All work is being done by volunteer residents. No compensation or reimbursements will be made for personal expenses. All volunteers will sign a waiver
12
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
of liability provided by FHMD. Each tree cut will be approved by a minimum of two volunteers and will not exceed 6� in diameter as measured one foot above ground. The goal is to remove only the smaller shorter trees and the trees growing too close together. The goal is to leave the larger healthier trees with proper spacing. Trees that are to be cut will be selected using the Forest Service recommendations and by Bjorn Dahl, a forestry consultant hired by FMHD. Each tree to be cut will be located on the Eastwood Road right of way and not on private property. If a private property owner asks for help thinning or trimming trees the volunteers may offer to help but only with the full consent and prior approval of the owner. The tree thinning will begin in late April and continue until the Riva Chase cleanup day on June 8. Most of the work will be done on Saturdays and Sundays by groups of two people or more. Our volunteers will continue to stack and pile cut trees on the sides of the roads. Until the clean up day, we all need to be extra careful driving on Eastwood since residents will be walking in the road where the slash is piled. Please contact Dick Shaw at dick@littlecolorado.com or 303.526.9471 if you would like to help.
Evacuation Report
O
n Saturday April 13th, the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office conducted an exercise in the Genesee area. Nearly 400 households participated by evacuating the neighborhood and tracking their times. Assisting with the exercise were our dedicated volunteers and response partners from the Colorado State Patrol, Genesee Fire Department, Foothills Fire Department, and Highland Rescue Team. We would like to thank all those who participated and helped make the event a success! Below is a brief summary of the findings as well as some action items to help ensure you receive timely notification in the event of an emergency. NOTE: We are aware that not all residents received timely notification. Twelve households on the border of the evacuation area were inadvertently omitted from the notification system. This was human error. These homes were marked as being outside of the homeowners association erroneously. Rest assured, in an actual emergency, major roadways are used for evacuation borders rather than homeowners associations. KEY FINDINGS • The CodeRED system performed well. Text messages and emails were sent within one minute. 2,909 phone calls were made in just over seven minutes. The initial completion rate exceeded 74%. • The 26% of calls that didn't connect on the first several attempts were due to operator intercept (number is not currently in service or all circuits are busy), fax machines, caller ID blocks, no answers, and poor cellular coverage. • Overall, notification was rapid and efficient with 87% of participants safely evacuated within 30 minutes. Many of those not meeting the 9:30 a.m. evacuation goal were instances of residents intentionally delaying their evacuation after receiving notification.
• Receiving multiple methods of notification is crucial. Those who registered their cellular phones for either text and/or email alerts were notified 8-10 minutes earlier than those who didn't. • Traffic flowed efficiently with no significant issues encountered. Staff agrees that to accommodate an evacuation of 1,500 residences, the facilitation was appropriate. • Engaging the public was a success. The voluntary participation rate was likely better than 25%! The exercise itself provoked a dramatic increase in residents "opting-in" to register their cellular numbers to receive text and email alerts, helping the community be better prepared for an emergency evacuation. CITIZEN ACTION ITEMS • In a Level3 Immediate Evacuation ALL residents should leave within 5 minutes of notification. In the exercise we saw 42% of the participants take longer than this guideline. Being organized and having a plan is critical! • If you have solicitor blocking on your phone line you WILL NOT receive emergency notification. Consider other means to prevent solicitor calls, such as www.donotcall.qov • Share the "opt-in" message with neighbors, friends and family. Take the time to register for text and email alerts with CodeRED at www.jeffcosheriff.com • With an actual emergency, in addition to CodeRED, the Sheriff's Office may also utilize Twitter, Facebook, our webpage, the Emergency Alert System, and local media to make notification. • Stay connected and "When in doubt, GET OUT!" And finally, stay aware! The recent snowfall is welcomed, but won't eliminate our fire threat. Have a plan, practice it, and encourage your neighbors to do the same!
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
13
Fire-safe Landscaping Can Save Your Home
W
A Factsheet on Rural Fire Safety and Prevention
ildland fires destroy hundreds of homes and acres of land every year across the country. Fire-safe landscaping is an effective tool that creates an area of defensible space between your home and flammable vegetation that protects against devastating fires.
The U. S. Fire Administration (USFA) encourages you to keep fire safety at the forefront by learning how to landscape and maintain your property to minimize possible fire damage and slow fires if they start. Remember, fire safety is your personal responsibility… Fire Stops With You!
Defensible space Works During the 2003 raging California fires, a number of homes were saved as a result of the owners’ careful pruning and landscaping techniques that protected their homes. In a fire situation, the dead trees and shrubs surrounding your home act as fuel for fire. Removing flammable vegetation reduces the threat of fire. Follow these basic rules to create defensible space that works. • Remove all dead plants, trees and shrubs from the site. • Reduce excess leaves, plant parts and low-hanging branches. • Replace dense flammable plants with fire-resistant plants. • The choice of plants, spacing and maintenance are crucial elements in any defensible space landscaping plan.
Tips for a fire-safe lanDscape • Create a defensible space perimeter by thinning trees and brush within 30 feet around your home. • Beyond 30 feet, remove dead wood, debris and low tree branches. • Eliminate small trees and plants growing under trees. They allow ground fires to jump into tree crowns. • Space trees 30 feet apart and prune to a height of 8 to 10 feet. • Place shrubs at least 20 feet from any structures and prune regularly.
March 2006
14
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
• Plant the most drought-tolerant vegetation within three feet of your home and adjacent to structures to prevent ignition. • Provide at least a 10 to 15 foot separation between islands of shrubs and plant groups to effectively breakup continuity of vegetation. • Landscape your property with fireresistant plants and vegetation to prevent fire from spreading quickly.
choose fire resisTanT MaTerials • Check your local nursery or county extension service for advice on fire resistant plants that are suited for your environment. • Create fire-safe zones with stone walls, patios, swimming pools, decks and roadways. • Use rock, mulch, flower beds and gardens as ground cover for bare spaces and as effective firebreaks. • There are no “fire-proof” plants. Select high moisture plants that grow close to the ground and have a low sap or resin content. • Choose plant species that resist ignition such as rockrose, iceplant and aloe. • Fire-resistant shrubs include hedging roses, bush honeysuckles, currant, cotoneaster, sumac and shrub apples. • Plant hardwood, maple, poplar and cherry trees that are less flammable than pine, fir and other conifers.
MainTain Your hoMe anD surrounDing properTY • Maintain a well-pruned and watered landscape to serve as a green belt and protection against fire. • Keep plants green during the dry season and use supplemental irrigation, if necessary. • Trim grass on a regular basis up to 100 feet surrounding your home. • Stack firewood at least 30 feet from your home. • Store flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal containers outside the home at least 30 feet away from structures and wooden fences. • No matter where you live, always install smoke alarms on every level of your home. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Consider installing the new long-life smoke alarms.
For more information contact: The U. S. Fire Administration 16825 South Seton Avenue Emmitsburg, MD 21727 or Visit the USFA Web site: www.usfa.fema.gov
Homeland Security
Fire Mitigation
by Adam Goldman
Fighting the Unpredictable: A Wildland Fire What you as a homeowner can do to create a defensible space. Every year, residents in the foothills and rural Colorado face the risk of wildland fires. They are unpredictable in nature (how, where and why they start), intensity (from minor to major incidents), and outcome. Most of us never think about them until we see or hear about one on the news. Much like a structure fire, they are not your everyday occurrence. Hence, we don’t see it as a risk. As residents in Riva Chase, that is the furthest from the truth. Being prepared can mean the difference between life and death, not to mention significant loss of property. So what can you do? First, develop a plan ahead of time for what you and your family will do when a wildland fire is reported; where will you meet, what will you take, how will you exit, and most importantly, how will you account for everyone to ensure their safety. This is critical. It addresses what is most important: personal life safety. Next, how can you protect your property, giving it the best possible chance of surviving a potentially catastrophic event? Create a defensible space around your home, starting now. The following is an excerpt from the Colorado State Forest Service for creating a defensible space on your property. Wildfire hazards exist on most forested home sites. Many hazards can be reduced to acceptable levels by following these fire safety guidelines:
1. Thin out continuous tree and brush cover within 30 feet of your house and structures. Adequate thinning is reached in the 30-foot defensible space when the outer edges of tree crowns are at least 10 to 12 feet apart. If your home is on a slope, enlarge the defensible space, especially on the downhill side. 2. Dispose of all slash and debris left from the thinning—lop and scatter (cut debris into small pieces and disperse over area to accelerate decomposition); chip or haul to a disposal site. 3. Remove dead limbs, leaves and other ground litter within the defensible space. 4. Stack firewood uphill and at least 15 feet from your home. 5. Maintain a greenbelt immediately around your home using grass, flower gardens or ornamental shrubbery. An alternative is rock or other noncombustible material. 6. Mow dry grasses/forbs to a height of 2” or less. 7. Prune branches from trees within the defensible space to a height of 10’ above the ground. 8. Also remove other potential “ladder fuels” such as shrubs and small trees from beneath large trees plus higher combustible trees such as cedar & juniper. 9. Trim branches that extend over your roof and that are within 15’ of a chimney. 10. Clean roof and gutters of pine needles to eliminate ignition source. 11. Reduce density of forest at least 100 feet out from home site (entire lot is preferable). Adam Goldman Riva Chase Resident Foothills Fire & Rescue
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
15
Length: 12.1 miles Stations: 12 Parking: Open Daily Travel Time: 34 minutes to Denver Station
16
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
RTD W Line Opens
by Roz Birkelo
Useful Information as found on the RTD-Denver.com website
T
he anticipation is finally over and the W Line is open and in full operation. I have not been lucky enough to try the new light rail yet, but my husband has taken the new line several times downtown and makes it to his office in approximately 40 minutes. My co-worker takes it and says that she can make it from Jeffco to our building at 18th & Curtis in 51 minutes. I’m encouraged. Rather than find out all the little details the day I decide to ride, I thought I’d track down some information and pass it along to those of you who might be interested.
Parking
FARES Fares vary from $2.25 - $5.00 for one-way fares. RTD offers discounts with 10-Ride Ticket Books, Monthly Passes, Eco-Passes and more. There are also senior discounts, disability discounts, and children fares.
HOW TO PAY Tickets may be purchased at each station. Kiosks accept credit/debit cards, pre-paid tickets, and cash. Tickets may also be purchased at most King Soopers and Safeways. And of course, you can buy online.
HELPFUL LINKS
There’s been a lot of speculation on parking for the new W line and whether our address falls within the District Boundaries or not. The good news is, Riva Chase does in fact fall within District N. Of course this all depends on your vehicle. If your vehicle is registered at an address within RTD boundaries, you may park for free the first 24-hour period. After this period, a nominal $2.00 fee applies. Patrons with vehicles registered out of the district pay a $4.00 fee every day they park. You can also purchase reserved parking spaces as long as you arrive between 5-10 a.m. After that time, your space is released to the general public.
License Plate Look up
TIMING
Light Rail Schedules
• The W Line runs every 7.5 minutes during peak hours: 6:30 – 9 am / 4–7 pm; • Every 15 minutes during Off-peak hours: 9 am – 4 pm / 7–10 pm; and • Every 30 minutes between 3:30 am – 6 am and 10 pm – 3:30 am.
http://www.rtd-denver.com/HowToPark.shtml#
Fares & Passes http://www.rtd-denver.com/FaresPasses.shtml
Interactive Park & Ride map
http://www3.rtd-denver.com/elbert/PNRMap/ index.cfm
Purchase Fares Online http://store.rtdpasses.com http://www.rtd-denver.com/Schedules.shtml
Light Rail System Map
http://www.rtd-denver.com/LightRail_Map.shtml
BIKES ACCEPTED Simply load at the designated spot in the front or back of the train and secure your bike accordingly. May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
17
Meet your HOA Board of Director Joy Lawrance
Ann Nutt
President
1st Vice President
Joy’s life started in Chicago, before moving to Pasadena, CA via Route. 66. She studied piano, attended Pasadena City College and Occidental College as a Music/Education major. Joy taught 2nd and 3rd grades in LA, then went to Germany where she taught music in an American Elementary school. It is in Germany where Joy met her husband Bob, and moved back to California. They ended up in Denver in 1972, and after twentyfive years of teaching piano, she decided to become a Travel Consultant, and has been doing that ever since. For the past several years, she has been writing travel articles and general articles for Colorado Expression.
Ron Kordof
Gar y Sohrweid
2nd Vice President
3rd Vice President
Ron was born in Bulgaria, and raised in Israel. He came to the US as a foreign student to study engineering in Worcester, Mass. With a BS in Mechanical Engineering, he unpredictably made a career in sales and marketing within the financial services industry, first locally and then on a national level since 1989. He has lived in Denver since 1970, in Genesee since 1985, and in Riva Chase since 1998. “Our Riva Chase community has close to 150 homeowners, and as expected, a wide divergence of opinion on how things should be done. All of us who volunteer to serve on your board are mindful of that divergence, as we also keep the welfare of the whole community in mind.” 18
After teaching school for 8 years, and having owned and managed four retail businesses for 25 years, Ann sold her businesses in Texas and retired to Colorado. Having attended a summer session at CU in 1957, she knew this is where she wanted to live someday. In the summer of 1996, Ann and her husband, Winston, happened to drive through Riva Chase and found the property on which they designed and built their present home. In 1998, she joined Joy Lawrence and Brenda Shuler on the Board and have had the pleasure of serving intermittently with both of them since that time.
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Gary was raised and born in rural Nebraska. He moved to Colorado to teach art at Evergreen High School. After teaching almost his entire teaching career in Jeffco schools, he retired. Gary and his wife, Nancy, have two daughters and five grandchildren. The Sohrweids moved to Riva Chase in 2001 and live on Summerwood Drive. He maintains an Art Studio in their home and is featured in three different galleries. He has performed in many community theatre productions in Evergreen. He has a twin brother, Larry, who has directed over thirty musicals for the Evergreen Community. Gary has also volunteered for the National Western Stock Show for thirteen yeas and continues his work at the Denver Livestock and Agriculture Club as Secretary.
rs
2012 / 2013
John Carpenter Treasurer John is a Colorado native. He graduated from the University of Denver and has a Juris Doctorate, an MBA, and a BSBA in Finance. John currently owns a full service digital media agency and has various other business interests. He has been married to his wife, Dawn, for nearly 21 years, and they have one daughter, Cassidy. “Giving back to such a great community as Riva Chase by volunteering is one of my passions. I enjoy being a part of the Annual Clean-up Day and heading up the Chili Cook-Off.�
Welcome to the Neighborhood! Rich & Bonnie Reper Richie Reper 803 Willobe Way
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
19
Annual Meeting Annual Meeting will be June 19, 2013 AGENDA 1. Officer / Committee Reports 2. Future Plans of Riva Chase 3. Elections of Board of Directors 4. Deputy Harris Place: 22876 Solitude Lane Time: 7:00 p.m. Refreshments will be served. All notifications, ballots and proxy’s will be distributed in accordance to the Riva Chase Bylaws. The one on page 19 is provided for your convenience.
Article IV ADMINISTRATION 4.01 Annual Meeting. The annual meeting of the members shall be held in the month of June in each year, or at such other date in June or July designated by the Board of Directors, beginning with the year 1992, for the purpose of the transaction of such business as may come before the meeting. If the day fixed for the annual meeting shall be a legal holiday in Colorado, such meeting shall be held the next succeeding business day.
4.03 Place of Meeting. The Board of Directors may designate any place, either within or outside of Colorado, as the place for any annual meeting or for any special meeting called by the Board of Directors. A waiver of notice signed by all members entitled to vote at a meeting may designate any place, either within or outside Colorado, as the place for such meeting. If no designation is made, or if a special meeting shall be called otherwise than by the Board, the place of meeting shall be the principal office of the corporation in Golden, Colorado.
4.04 Notice of Meeting. Written or printed notice of any meeting of the members, stating the place, day and hour of the meeting, and the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called, shall be delivered personally or by mail to each member entitled to vote at such meeting, not less than 10 nor more than 50 days before the date of the meeting. If mailed, such notice shall be deemed to be delivered when deposited in the United States mail, addressed to the member at his or her address as it appears in the office of the Association, with postage thereon prepaid. For the purpose 20
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
*Note: This is not a full copy of the Bylaws. Segments are provided simply for your information and it was not my intent to distribute this in full via the Riva Reader or any other means. See below for information pertaining to how to obtain a copy of the Riva Chase governing documents.
of determining members entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of members, the Board of Directors may set a record date for such determination of members, in accordance with the laws of Colorado. If requested by the person or persons lawfully calling such meeting, the secretary shall give notice thereof at the expense of the Association.
4.05 Informal Action by Members. Any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of the members may be taken without a meeting if a consent in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by all of the members entitled to vote with respect to the subject matter thereof. Such consent shall have the same force and effect as a unanimous vote of the members, and may be stated as such in any articles or document filed with the Secretary of State of Colorado.
4.06 Voting. In the election of directors each member shall have the right to vote the number of votes to which (s)he is entitled for as many persons as there are directors to be elected, and for whose election (s)he is entitled to vote. Proxies and/or Voting Ballots are to be mailed not less than 10, nor more than 50 days before the date of the Annual Meeting with elections. Homeowners are allowed to vote their ballot or submit their proxy (assigning another to vote on their behalf) prior to the Annual Meeting if they are unable to attend. Votes and proxies will only be accepted with the signature and address of the homeowner. Cumulative voting shall not be allowed.
For a copy of the Riva Chase Bylaws, Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions, as well as our Residential Rules & Regulations, please go to our website at www.rivachase.com and access it under the Homeowners menu / Residential Standards. For those of you who want to be more involved in the Riva Chase HOA, please see the Bylaws for a list of Officer duties and consider volunteering your time. Directors are voted for at the annual meeting, and officers are decided upon and appointed by the existing board of directors.
GENERAL PROXY for the Annual Meeting of the Riva Chase Homeowners Association ________________________________ the undersigned Owner of the property at _________________________________, Golden, Colorado, hereby appoint _________________________________ as my proxy with full power of substitution, to vote on my behalf in respect to all matters that may properly come before the annual meeting on June 19, 2013 and at every adjournment thereof, to the same extent and with the same powers that I would be entitled if personally present. This proxy shall be void if I or another Owner of this property is personally present. __________________________________________________ ______________________ Homeowner’s Signature Date
Article V BOARD OF DIRECTORS 5.01 Number, Tenure and Qualifications. The business and affairs of the Association shall be managed by a Board of Directors consisting of up to five directors, who need not be members of the Association. Each director shall serve for one-year terms and shall be elected annually by the members at the annual meeting. Each director shall hold office until the election and qualification of his successor or until his earlier death, resignation or removal. The number of directors may be changed by amendment of these Bylaws in the manner set forth herein.
Article VI OFFICERS AND AGENTS 6.01 General. The officers of the Association shall be a president (who shall be chosen from among the members of the Board of Directors), a vice president, a secretary and a treasurer. The officers shall be appointed by an affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may appoint such other officers, assistant officers, committees and agents, including assistant secretaries and assistant treasurers, as they may consider necessary or advisable, who shall be chosen in such manner and hold their offices for such terms and have such authority and duties as from time to time may be determined by the Board of Directors. One person may hold any two offices. In all cases where the duties of any officer, agent or employee are not prescribed by the Bylaws or by the Board of Directors, such officer, agent or employee shall follow the orders and instructions of the president.
6.04 President. The president shall be the chief executive officer of the Association. (S)he shall preside at all meetings of the Association and of the Board of Directors. (S)he shall have the general and active control of the affairs and business of the Association and general supervision of its officers, agents and employees. 6.05 Vice President(s). The vice president(s) shall assist the president and shall perform such duties as may be assigned to them by the president or by the Board of Directors. In the absence of the president, the vice president designated by the Board of Directors or (if there be no such designation) designated in writing by the president shall have the powers and perform the duties of the president.
6.06 Secretary. The secretary shall: (a) Keep the minutes of the proceedings of the members, executive committee and the Board of Directors; (b) See that all notices are duly given in accordance with the provisions of these Bylaws, the Declaration and as required by law; (c) Be custodian of the corporate records and the seal of the Association and affix the seal to all documents when authorized by the Board of Directors; (d) Keep at the Association’s registered office or principal place of business within or outside of Colorado a record containing the names and registered addresses of all members, the Lot owned by each member, and, if such Lot or the Improvements thereon is mortgaged, the name and address of each Mortgagee; and; (e) In general, perform all duties incident to the office of secretary and such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to him/her by the president or by the Board of Directors. Assistant secretaries, if any, shall have the same duties and powers, subject to supervision by the secretary.
6.07 Treasurer. The treasurer shall be the principal financial officer of the Association and shall have the care and custody of all funds, securities, evidences of indebtedness and other personal property of the Association and shall deposit the same in accordance with the instructions of the Board of Directors. (S) he shall receive and give receipts and acquittances for money paid in on account of the Association, and shall pay out of the funds on hand all bills, payrolls and other just debts of the Association of whatever nature upon maturity. (S)he shall perform all other duties incident to the office of the treasurer and, upon request of the Board, shall make such reports to it as may be required at any time. (S)he shall, if required by the Board, give the Association a bond in such sums and with such sureties as shall be satisfactory to the Board, conditioned upon the faithful performance of his/ her duties and for the restoration to the Association of all books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in his/her possession or under his/her control belonging to the Association. (S)he shall have such other powers and perform such other duties as may be from time to time prescribed by the Board of Directors or the president. The assistant treasurers, if any, shall have the same powers and duties, subject to the supervision of the treasurer.
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
21
FHMD
by Ted Laves
Forest Hills Metro District Report In Case of a District Issue: Mulhern MRE, the District’s Management firm, is your best first point of contact should you experience or observe a District problem (water outages, gates not operating, landscaping, water bill, etc.). Key staff at Mulhern MRE are – Kelly Conover (Administrator) and Pat Mulhern (Manager). Mulhern MRE’s contacts are: • Business Hours: 303-649-9857 • After Hours Answering Service: 303-426-3187 • District Website: http://fhmd.net You should also feel free to contact any Board member (contacts at end of this letter). New Management Forest Hills Metro has recently changed management firms and starting June 1st District matters will be handled by Christina Shea of Blacklock Integrated Services, Inc. in Evergreen Colorado. Christina will be assisted by Ted Kuettel of KTL Solutions who will be performing non-water and sewer related maintenance in Riva Chase. Blacklock provides management services for several smaller special districts in the foothills and is familiar with the vendors and issues in our mountain area. We will soon email you with new District contact information. The District wishes to thank Mulhern MRE for supporting Riva Chase for the last 18 months. Preparing for Forest Fires With summer just around the corner, it is time to get ready for the possibility of forest fires. Although Riva Chase hasn’t had a wild fire in 25 years, every year brings a new season of risk. The area north of Colorado Springs had also not had a fire for many years but last year suffered the devastating Waldo Canyon fire. It could happen here and we all need to be ready. Fire Mitigation Forest Hills Metro has hired a well known forestry 22
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
consultant to survey Riva Chase and put together fuel models based upon topography and tree density. He will soon return with his report that will guide us on where to prioritize fuel reduction efforts. As always, we need to balance safety, fire risk reduction and improving the health of our forests. Much of our land is on private property and so both the District and private residents will need to work together. The District plans to hold public meetings to present the results of this study. There are funds, tax credits and even grants available to help pay the cost of mitigation on your property. You can take a tax deduction each year for mitigation costs on your Colorado income taxes and there are some reimbursement funds available from Jefferson County. Please contact the District for more information. A group of citizens led by Dick Shaw of Treetop has under the guidance of the forestry consultant been out every weekend thinning trees on District property along Eastwood Drive and in the open space canyon below Carpenter’s Curve along Eastwood. This work is essential because the heavy growth of saplings on both sides of Eastwood could make evacuation difficult and obstruct fire fighter access. And the Carpenter’s Curve canyon could easily become a fire chimney that would generate intense heat and flames that would threaten everything above it. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Dick.
Meanwhile Forest Hills Metro expects this summer to thin open space forests on the north side of Riva Chase just below Chippewa where the slope is steep and the forest so dense that residents could have trouble escaping in time. Professional thinning is necessary because the slopes are too steep for volunteers.
The cost of this 400 foot long pipe is expected to be less than $40,000 with a worst case scenario, including soft costs of $50,000. The Jefferson County assessor estimates the value of homes in Riva Chase at over $100 million and this pipe will be an insurance policy against devastation to our wonderful community.
Forest Hills Metro has applied for a $35,000 matching funds grant from the State of Colorado to support tree thinning on both public and private land. The regional office of the State Forestry Service has given our application a favorable ranking and it is now being considered at the state level.
To date Forest Hills Metro has only authorized expenditures of $3000 for planning. Once the necessary permits and agreements are in place the District expects to authorize an additional $2,000 expenditure to develop engineering plans and to obtain contractor bids. Only then will the District consider funding the actual project and approval will depend on whether those costs are as expected.
Pipeline to Genesee Riva Chase has enough water (225,000 gallons) in its storage tank to fight a serious house fire but not enough to combat a wild fire. Within just a few hours our water tank would be empty and we would be in trouble. To insure sufficient water for fire fighting, Forest Hills Metro is working with the Genesee Water and Sanitation District which has 33 million gallons of water in its reservoir to build an emergency water pipeline from Genesee to Riva Chase. The 400 foot long pipe will be buried 7 feet underground and will run from the water main under Eastwood Drive to a Genesee water main along the border between Riva Chase and Genesee. The control valves will be located underground along the old barbed wire fence between our two communities. In preparation, we have successfully completed a study of water rights issues, applied for permission from the state Department of Public Health and Environment and are starting to negotiate an agreement with Genesee on how and when the pipeline will be used. This pipeline will be only used for fire emergencies because Genesee is not permitted under their water rights to provide Riva Chase with water for other purposes. The new pipe will not have the capability to send water uphill to Genesee. Genesee is doing this because a fire in Riva Chase would quickly spread uphill to them and it is in everyone’s interest to bring a wild fire under control. Similarly, Riva Chase last year supplied water to fight forest fires downhill along Grapevine Road. Stopping that fire quickly saved our community and homes. In a forest fire we are all in this together.
Water Restrictions As happens every year, the metro District has instituted watering restrictions from May 1st to September 30th. With all the recent snow and rain falls you might think that our water problems have gone away but that is not the case. The District has conducted detailed studies of our well capacity and even in good years there is not enough water in the aquifers below us to support heavy water use. Excessive water use drains our aquifers and reduces the long term viability of Riva Chase. Riva Chase is fortunate to sit on top of a major fault structure from which we draw our water and for the long term we should have enough water for inside use and for moderate outside watering. But we must use our water resources wisely. We actually have more available water than many surrounding foothills communities but not enough to be wasteful. Infrastructure Improvements Riva Chase is now almost 30 years old and our infrastructure is starting to age. To maintain the quality of life and property values the District is expending sizable funds this year to rehabilitate and upgrade our community. Water System: Colorado’s Department of Public Health and Environment recently conducted a day long inspection of our water system and while our system is in good condition they are asking us to implement a variety of improvements. In addition, the District is undertaking other changes to improve the reliability of our system. Continued on pages 22
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
23
For example, in a few weeks a scuba diver in sanitized gear will clean our water storage tank at the end of Whispering Woods. We are also continuing to upgrade the booster pumps that raise pressure for homes at the top of our community. In addition we are upgrading the system that pumps water from Mt. Vernon Creek to fill our ponds. Sewage System: While our water system is in good condition, our sewage system needs work. For example, for the first time in probably 20 years we will be jetting and videoing half of our 5 miles of sewer lines. We are also rebuilding our two lift stations that move waste over ridges on its way to the wastewater treatment plant and adding alarms to avoid surprises. Wastewater Treatment Plant: Unfortunately errors were made in the construction of our new sewage plant and some rebuilding will be needed. Engineers are still evaluating the situation but in the meantime our operators are using manual methods to keep the system operating at peak performance. Roads The District expects to soon begin rebuilding Eastwood Drive from the gate down to Grapevine Road. This road has unfortunately failed and it will be necessary to remove everything down to the dirt and start over. The good news is that no other part of our road system
appears to need this sort of major repair. We recently completed filling all of the cracks on our roads. Crack filling is essential as water can expand during cold weather and quickly destroy the surrounding roads. Forest Hills Metro is also actively investigating other methods such as slurry coating to extend the life of our roads and make them more attractive. In coming years though we will need to begin roto-milling the asphalt off of some of our roads and applying a thick asphalt overlay coat. And as always we are experiencing some pot holes and sink holes that require prompt repair. Sorry about the inconvenience of work crews out on our roads. The Forest Hills Metro District is your local governmental body and Board members are your neighbors and elected by you. We work closely with the HOA and aim to provide you with first rate services and quality infrastructure. We welcome your participation and advise. Our regular meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month starting at 6 PM and we welcome everyone to attend. You can also contact any Board member by phone or email about any issue or concerns. FHMD Board President Ted Laves, 720-488-9009 ted_laves@yahoo.com
District Contacts District Board Roy Roux
303-526-9408
roy.roux@comcast.net
Tom Napp
303-989-3380
tomnappfhmd@comcast.net
Ted Laves
720-488-9009
ted_laves@yahoo.com
John Klinowski
303-526-0996
klinowski82@comcast.net
Judy Bertrand
303-906-1911
judyolopc@comcast.net
Kelly Conover
303-649-9857
laurie@mulhernmre.com
Pat Mulhern
303-649-9857
pat@mulhernmre.com
District Management
24
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Arch ite
ACC
ee mit m
ACC Reminder
Control C ral u o ct
Riva Chase
S
pring has finally sprung and many of you are thinking about improvements to your home from landscaping to painting. As a friendly reminder, please remember that the Covenants and ACC Rules and Regulations were written to protect the property value of our homes and aesthetics of the community. With this in mind, your ACC requests your help in reminding new and old homeowners that approval from the ACC must be received prior to making changes, additions or improvements to the exterior of your property, including landscaping, as set forth in the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, and the ACC Rules and Regulations.
For a copy of Riva Chase Residential Standards, By-Laws, and Covenants, please see our web page and view or download a copy of the pdf files on our website under homeowners/residential-standar ds. Questions or concerns and requests for approval of work can be directed to Ann Nutt ( 303-526-5846 or e-mail: annienutt@ comcast.net) or any other member of the HOA Board. Thank you for your cooperation and abiding by our residential standards.
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
25
Adopt a place in Riva Chase by Dale & Cheri Kinzler
We still have orphan streets and areas that need “parents” so please let us know if you can help tidy up our beautiful community.
HOW TO SIGN UP
1. Sign up for at least one place; you may sign up for more than one. 2. Several families can sign up for the same place.
DUTIES
1. Trash pickup 2. Keep fire hydrants free of ice and snow in the winter months. 3. Report other concerns (such as maintenance issues, water leaks, dangerous conditions, etc.) to Laurie Matlock, Mulhern MRE, 303-649-9857
Streets marked in white still need “parents.” In addition, the park & playground needs a volunteer.
26
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
May Photo / June 2013 | Riva 27 Courtesy ofReader Roz Birkelo
Photo Courtesy of Colleen Brisben
RC Bible Study The Riva Chase Bible study is a close knit and welcoming group of 8-15 women who meet Thursday mornings for two hours that seem to fly by! We love to catch up with each other’s lives, offer support and pray for each other. Our Bible study time is in-depth and includes homework, group discussion and sometimes DVD’s from Beth Moore or Precept Ministries. No one is required to share or pray. We come from a variety of church affiliations & backgrounds, but share our
28
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
by Colleen Brisben
desire to know God better through studying His Word. During the summertime, we meet weekly to discuss a Christian book (on topics like faith, prayer, etc), which will start June 13th this year. When I moved to CO three years ago, I was quickly introduced to this group that readily welcomes newcomers and their friendship made my transition significantly better. Please contact Colleen Brisben with any questions at Colleen Brisben-cbrisben3@comcast.net.
RC Book Club
by Sherri Teter
Book Club has been around for many years. I have been involved for the last couple of years. Personally, Book Club has motivated me to read more often, and read books I would not normally select. A sample of some of the books we have read, Hunger Games, Lost in Shangrila, March, Rules of Civility, The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox, Devil in the White City, Night Circus, Wild, Greater Journey, Killing Kennedy, and Killing Lincoln. As you can see, there is a great variety. We welcome suggestions, and past favorite reads.
children survived. Jane M lead the discussion of this emotional, and remarkable book. Jane shared her personal experiences, which really made for a beautiful discussion.
Book Club is an amazing group of women, with many backgrounds and interests. It’s one of the many reasons, that Book Club is so enjoyable. We meet every 6 weeks or so, based on availability, at 6:30 pm on Wednesdays. It is a great way to perk up your week. At approximately 6:30, the evening begins socially with wine and refreshments and great conversations. It’s a great way to catch up with your neighbors and I love it. We try to begin the discussion at 7:30 pm, although it’s sometimes difficult since we are all having so much fun.
Thousands of people have had near-death experiences, but scientists have argued that they are impossible. Dr. Eben Alexander, a highly trained neurosurgeon, was one of those scientists. Alexander knew that NDEs feel real but are simply fantasies produced by brains under extreme stress. Then Dr. Alexander’s brain— the part of the brain that controls thought and emotion—was attacked by a rare illness and shutdown completely. For seven days he lay in a coma. As his doctors considered stopping treatment, Alexander’s eyes popped open.
The discussion begins with suggestions of a new book and someone volunteering to host the meeting. The host’s responsibility is to provide their home for the meeting, and it is especially fun to see all the beautiful homes here in Riva Chase. Everyone is to bring either a refreshment (usually wine), or a nibble of choice. We also have someone volunteer to lead the discussion, usually the person that suggested the book. I hosted the last meeting and the book was Dovekeepers by Alice Hoffman—a mesmerizing novel. Nearly two thousand years ago, nine hundred Jews held out for months against armies of Romans on Masada, a mountain in the Judean desert. According to the ancient historian Josephus, two women and five
For the next books (note plural), we will journey into the realm of life after death with Make Me Alive Again by Kay Zadanieski and Marie Segovia (aka your friends Kay and Joy!!!)— our own Riva Chase Authors—and/or Proof of Heaven by Eben Alexander.
This will be an interesting discussion for sure. And if you do choose to read Kay and Joy’s book, it’s easily available on Amazon in hard copy or via Kindle. Andrea Webber has offered to host the group on June 12, so mark your calendars, read on, and hope to see you there! (For info: Email Joy joy.of.travel@comcast.net)
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
29
Buy Golden Week
by Jenifer Doane
The Buy Golden Week promotion was designed to educate local residents and businesses about the many benefits of buying local and to support overall community marketing goals of increasing the percentage of Golden businesses and consumers that buy local, and maximizing the share of wealth that is distributed and controlled within our local community.
• • • • • •
Transcript Free ad in the Golden Coffee News publication Several marquee signs around Golden Parfet park bus stop sign Emails to 200+ downtown businesses from GURA Buy Golden Week packets for teachers Buy Golden Week post card to 13,000 Golden residents • Buy Golden Week Banner under “Howdy Folks” Arch on Washington Avenue
The specific goals of the 2013 Buy Golden Week were: • To invigorate the efforts of the year-long Buy Golden program and increase awareness of the program among Golden residents and business owners. • To provide a direct benefit to a special beneficiary project or program in accordance with the City Council’s annual priorities. • To boost sales for Golden businesses during a weaker consumer spending time of the year.
We also experienced an increase in web traffic for the Buy Golden program. • Web traffic to the dinning, shopping, lodging and services pages on golden.com increased on average of 12 to 30% from January through March. • Traffic to the Buy Golden page on golden.com increased 74% from January through March.
Overall, the 2013 Buy Golden Week successfully accomplished two of its three goals by significantly increasing the awareness of the Buy Golden program among residents and by creating an outlet to support the City Council’s community priority with a sizable donation to the Golden Public Schools.
Residents and business owners also overwhelmingly reported on surveys they felt having Golden Public Schools as the beneficiary was the most positive and impactful element of the promotion. Many residents sighted “Golden Public Schools” for their decision to make a purchase during the promotion.
Several businesses reported that customers asked about the promotion and one shop owner reported that “A customer returned specifically just to buy during Buy Golden Week,” said Kerry, Golden Retail Business Owner.
The Golden Public Schools were highly engaged in the promotion and helped to share information about Buy Golden Week through E-newsletters, website messages, and social media postings and announcements. They also provided information to parents, hung posters and passed out flyers.
The Buy Golden Committee successfully executed the Buy Golden Week marketing plan utilizing traditional marketing efforts, social media efforts, direct mail marketing, communications and collateral, and partnerships. Some of the marketing highlights included: • A 30-second commercial spot on Youtube and Channel 8 • Buy Golden Week Flyers in 375 City of Golden employee paystubs • Half-page, full-color ad on back page of the Golden
30
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Nancy, a Golden Retail Business Owner said, “The overall take on this was extremely positive. I think the weather just slowed it down a lot. Thanks for all of the effort.” Many businesses, especially those not associated with the Golden Ticket program or located downtown, also expressed gratitude for the outreach and connection. Golden Greeter, Marie Gillis, personally visited 125 businesses about the promotion. While sales tax receipts for the first quarter were
om
uy
.c
I A Many Golden businesses took upon themselves to help spread the word of the promotion and provided sales during Buy Golden Week. From websites to social media, Golden businesses promoted Buy Golden Week. Examples of business promotion included: • Golden River Sports, who included information about Buy Golden Week in the E-newsletter to 4,000 customers. • Pedal Pushers and Toppings & More, who added the Buy Golden Week logo and event information on their business websites. • El Dorado Mexican Restaurant who shared Buy Golden Week information on their business social media pages • Several businesses on Washington Avenue handed out stickers during Buy Golden Week.
w
Although, sales taxes remained flat in March, many merchants expressed support and appreciation for the promotion. Brandon, a Golden Restaurant Owner said, “Buy Golden is what we want as merchants and active residents…With the current program we were likely to have built some good awareness for Golden this year.”
.b
EN
ww
fairly strong, the entire month of March was mixed. Total sales tax collections were up slightly, while “in-city” sales were slightly down. Grocery and accommodations sectors were up, and restaurants were actually down.
M
GOLD
g old e n w
k e e
change and no additional dollars, we believe there could be a greater impact. For next year, potentially changing the message to something like, “HELP our KIDS!” would help boost participation from residents. The ‘Help our Kids’ message speaks to our audience immediately and the secondary message gives them the incentive to come to Buy Golden Week.” It is the Buy Golden committee’s recommendation to continue the Buy Golden Week promotion as well as have the Golden Public Schools as the beneficiary for 2014. Jenifer Doane is in charge of Community Marketing & Economic Development for the City of Golden
Of the businesses surveyed, all but one reported that they would like to see Buy Golden Week become an annual promotion for Golden. Businesses recommended promoting the beneficiary of the program more and possibly evaluating the messaging. One business owners said, “With a slight message
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
31
May is Alpaca Month
That’s right, alpacas, not llamas! Denver Mayor Michael Hancock proclaimed May as National Alpaca Awareness month. Hundreds of the nation’s best alpacas will be in Denver for two shows in May. The Great Western Alpaca Show concluded on May 5th and featured 850 alpacas competing in halter, performance and fleece classes. There’s still another opportunity to experience these magnificent creatures that originate from the high Andes of Peru. The National Alpaca Show will be held at the National Western Complex (I-70 & Brighton Blvd.) in Denver on May 17-19. The show
by Kim Taha
is free and open to the public. Friday and Saturday hours are 8am-5pm and 8am-4pm on Sunday. The National Alpaca Show will offer opportunities to experience the alpacas up close and personal, watch the alpacas compete in conformation and fleece characteristics and attend free educational seminars. Alpacas produce a high-end fiber that is seven times warmer than wool, hypoallergenic, soft, eco-friendly, and naturally water-repellent. Vendors will be on-site selling elegant alpaca clothing and fiber arts. Alpaca socks are the perfect companion for your feet during Colorado’s hiking, biking, camping, fishing, tennis, golf, and other summer recreational season. Your neighbors, the Tahas of Anasazi, have gone alpaca. No worries, the alpacas are not being raised in Riva Chase! If you are unable to make the National Alpaca Show, but still wish to see or speak alpacas, come visit the Taha Suri Alpaca Ranch on Lookout Mountain. 23109 US Highway 40 Golden, CO 80401 www.tahaalpacas.com
32
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Photo Courtesy of Roz Birkelo
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
33
Neighbor to Neighbor Contractor Recommendations
Cabinetry
For kitchen or any other cabinetry, I had tremendous success with Pete Dumanovsky (303) 669-3940. His attention to detail was unparalleled, he did the work himself (not just managing a team), he works very hard, and his rate is reasonable. John Carpenter
Electrical
I highly recommend Joel Ebersole with EES electrical (303) 8195488. I have used him several times now, and he is very affordable, trustworthy and easy to do business with. Latifa Rothrock
Plumbing, Heating, Electrical
Comes highly recommended by Joy Lawrance. She can’t say enough good things about their service and their rates. Applewood, Ryan Ziehr | 303-328-3000
Flooring
Greetings: My name is Gary Sohrweid and we live here at 730 Summerwood Drive. We just had a carpeted staircase converted into an oak staircase with black walnut inlay on the landing. The work is beautiful and of high quality. Two of my neighbors, also have had their floors refinished and new floors installed. We all have used ROONEY HARDWOOD FLOORS. We all endorse this Company whole heartedly and we all are Riva Chase property owners. Ph: 303-907-8604 Rick Rooney
General Contractors
Mile High Contractors | Contact MerriLou Flake 303.883.3866 They completely remodeled my master bathroom and did a great job. Quality workmanship, competitive prices, and great customer service. They are General Contractors and can perform all types of work at your home. Highly recommended. Brenda Shuler
Landscape & Snow Removal
We have employed Robert McCullough for the past five years. He and his crew are reliable, communicative and reasonable. RCM Lawn & Landscaping | (303) 232-5755 Kay Talley
Massage
This one is a must! In home massage. Jamie gives one of the best massages I have had and she brings her salon quality table with. Amazingly reasonable for this kind of service too. Jamie Schadel (303) 732-4223 / (303) 618-8691 Kay Talley
34
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Moving
For any type of local moving (e.g. A Piece of Large Furniture). I had a good deal of success with Hediger Moving. The owner, Steven Hediger lives on Lookout Mountain, and he and his assistant did a careful job with a very large and heavy piece of furniture for me. His number is (303) 526-9105. John Carpenter
Painting
I can’t recommend John highly enough – he has done two of our homes, a rental property and many friend’s homes. He is not the least expensive but they do what they say and are top notch. John Williams | Ph: 303-864-9247 | Cell: 720-849-3921 Roy Roux We just had interior painting done at our house at 858 Eastwood Drive. We had three contractors bid the job and we actually chose the highest, because of the impressions we had from the interview/bidding process. The contract was given to Colorado Commercial & Residential Painting (303.574.1740) and their sub was a Mexican family that did an excellent job. The owner, Wayne Wright, is the one we negotiated the entire transaction with and he went out of his way to please us. Ron Kordof I have used Tall Pines for ALL my painting needs. Inside, outside, on my deck—everything. They are professional, reliable, detail oriented, and extremely honest and fair. Make sure to include them on your list of possibilities. Bryan Kelly | 720-210-7643 http://www.tallpinespainting.com Roz Birkelo
Window Cleaning
We have used several different window cleaners over the years and from our experience these folks are clearly (no pun intended) the best quality and fair price. Guys with Squeegees | 303-284-7373 www.GWSWindowCleaning.com Jerry Ballard
Facts about Sun Screen by Renee Schreiner
Information from the Skin Cancer Foundation Website
D
id you know many people mistakenly believe that an SPF 30 rating gives twice as much sun protection as an SPF 15 and an SPF 50 more than three times that much. But really…
• • •
SPF 15 sunscreens filter out 93 percent of UVB rays, SPF 30 filters out 97 percent and SPF 50 filters out 98 percent.
Remember, it is important for the sunscreen to include broad-spectrum protection that also shields adequately against UVA. Sunscreens may be labeled broad-spectrum if they provide “proportional” protection against both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation.
Apply one ounce to the entire body 30 minutes prior to going outside, and reapply every two hours outdoors or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily. If you’re using a spray, apply until an even sheen appears on the skin. Consumers should look for The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Seal of Recommendation on the label or in the packaging. The Seal is awarded to sun protection products that meet the strict requirements of the Foundation’s Photobiology Committee. (Mary Kay Cosmetics SPF 30 sunscreen has that labeling) Enjoy the sun!! Renee Schreiner Independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
35
Homes for Sale in Riva Chase, Golden, CO List Sold
Pending Sale 22294 Anasazi Way Golden, CO 80401
Listed By: Ballard Professionals
$699,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 5 4
3387 $206
DOM Built
List Sold
153 1990
12/07/12
Http://Www.Obeo.Com/U.Aspx?id=759326 *** Fabulous Home Located In Prestigious Riva Chase, An Exclusive Gated Community. Enjoy The Rare Combination Of Mountain Living With The Convenience Of A 20 Minute Drive To Denver Or A Great Head Start To Mountain Recreation! This 5 Bedroom, 4 Bath Executive Home Is Very Open, Sunny and Bright With Lots Of Windows and Expansive Vaulted Ceilings Throughout and Mountainside Views. Updated Kitchen Has Quartzite Countertops, Ss Appliances and Opens To The Huge Family Room. The Formal Living and Dining Room As ...
Continued on pages 33 & 34
Interior Decoration
by Deena Green
Is it time to make a change? Whether you’re trying to sell your home or you just want to make some changes, now is the perfect time to brighten, rejuvenate and freshen up your home. Adding a “pop” of color to a room makes a huge difference in the feel of a room. Adding fun throw pillows, re-arranging the furniture and painting walls an accent color is an easy way to accomplish a quick change with appealing results. Bold patterns are popular right now and can be the inspiration to change the looks of an area dramatically. Through flower arrangements,
36
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
lighting, window treatments, area rugs, new bedding and a fun furniture piece, a space can completely take on a new look & become an area in your home that you cannot wait to spend more time in. Give me a call if I can help you freshen up your home.
For Sale 901 Mount Rose Way Golden, CO 80401
List Sold $775,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 4 4
2496 $310
DOM Built
List Sold
2 1995
05/07/13
Custom Ranch Style Home With Sensational Views From Every Window! New Paint Inside and Out.New Carpet. Gated Community.Fully Finished Walk Out Basement. 2+ Acre Mountain Retreat.Main Floor Master W/Fireplace and Patio Access. Wrap Around Deck W/City and Mountain Views. Close To Denver. To Many Features To List. Sold Price= Sold Term= Square Feet=2496 Sr High Multiple=9945 Sr High#=9945 Sr High:=Golden
For Sale 711 Summerwood Dr Golden, CO 80401
Listed By: Broker Direct Of Colorado
$674,500
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 5 6
3428 $197
DOM Built
List Sold
19 2000
04/20/13
Luxurious Yet Intimate Custom Home Located In Prestigious Riva Chase Subdivision (Genesee). Mountain Living Less Than 20 Minutes From Downtown. This 5,035 Square Foot Stone/Stucco Home Sits On Half An Acre and Boasts Wonderful Views, 3 Patios/Balconies, An Oversized 4 Car Garage, Upgrades Everywhere, and Lots Of Storage Space. Built In 2000 This Is One Of The Newer Homes In Riva Chase, Stone/Stucco (All Sides Masonry), Formal Entry W/Maple Hardwood Floors, Stunning Curved Staircase With Formal Chandelier, Formal Dining Room With Chandelier ...
For Sale 22473 Anasazi Way Golden, CO 80401
Listed By: Kitz and Associates, Inc.
List Sold
List Sold $675,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 5 4
2212 $305
DOM Built
List Sold
59 2004
03/11/13
Nestled In The Foothills, Enjoy This Beautiful Modern Contemporary Home With Great Sun Exposure In The Gated Riva Chase Community. Mountain Living Just Minutes From Downtown Denver With Mountain and City Views. This Custom Home Features A Large Main Floor Master Including A 5 Piece Master Bath, A Beautiful Granite Surround Gas Fireplace In Main Living Area and A Main Floor Office. Relax In This Stunning High End Gourmet Kitchen With Breakfast Bar, Granite Countertops, Under Cabinet Lighting, Granite Tile Flooring and Custom Glass Tile Back ...
For Sale
721 Summerwood Dr Golden, CO 80401
List Sold
$475,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 4 4
1930 $246
DOM Built 251 2002
List Sold
08/31/12
You Can`t Beat This Location! Close To Ski Resorts, Easy Access To I-70, C-470 and 6th Ave. Commute To Dia and Denver Etc. Is A Breeze. Built In 2002 With 3,057 Total Finished Sq. Ft. This Beautiful Home Shows Pride Of Ownership, Well Maintained and Clean. Bright, Open Floor Plan. Main Floor Master Has Spa-Like Updated Master Bathroom and Large Walk-In Closet. Two Additional Bedrooms On The Main Floor Share A Full Bathroom. Enjoy The Vaulted Ceilings and Designer Paint Throughout. The Spacious Open Kitchen Features Gas Cook Top, and Birch ...
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
37
For Sale
21910 Anasazi Way Golden, CO 80401
Listed By: Fuller Sotheby`s Int`l Realty
List Sold
$975,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 4 6
6385 $153
DOM Built
329 2004
List Sold
02/18/13
Stunning Value For Pristine Home With Exceptional Open Floor Plan and Sparkling City Light Plus Spectacular Sunrise Views! Main Level Living Features A Wood Study With Built-In Book Shelves, Two-Story Living Room With A Wall Of Glass and Central Gas Fireplace, Master With Private View Balcony and Luxury 5-Piece Bath With Views, Seamless Shower Door and Claw Foot Tub. The Beautiful Chefs Kitchen Has Sub-Zero Refrigerator, Dacor Stainless Steel Double Ovens, Wolf 5Burner Cook Top and Adjoins A Gathering Room With Gas Fireplace Plus A Glass ...
For Sale
22525 Treetop Ln Golden, CO 80401
List Sold
$1,199,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 5 8
5160 $232
DOM Built
989 1998
List Sold
08/24/10
Stunning Mtn Contemp Estate. Gated Comm, Gourmet Kit, Butler Pantry, Wine Cooler, Natural Stone Flrs. Counters, Fireplace Surrounds Thru Out Home, Maple Cabinetry, Hand Hewn Spruce Beams, Faux Painting, Outdoor Water Feature, Sweeping Mtn/City Views. Sold Price= Sold Term= Square Feet=5160 Sr High Multiple=9945 Sr High#=9945 Sr High:=Golden Listed By: Coldwell Banker Residential 28
For Sale
23055 Whispering Woods Golden, CO 80401
Listed By: RE/MAX Alliance
1052 Sleepy Hollow Dr Golden, CO 80401
38
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
$799,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 5 5
3975 $201
DOM Built 31 1995
List Sold 04/08/13
This Privately Located Lot Is In The Back Of Riva Chase and Yet 5 Minutes To I-70 With No Road Noise. Several Decks To Enjoy The Serenity Of Over 2 Acres. Open and Bright Floor Plan With Soaring Windows. Spectacular Entry Way With Custom Transom Windows. The Kitchen Is A Cooks Paradise Open To The Great Room With Granite Countertops, An Island Complete With Cooktop and Sitting Area, Pantry and Doors That Open To The Deck. The Master Bedroom Is A Wonderful Get-A-Way With A 5 Pc. Bath, Fireplace, and Sitting Area Or Office. The Lower Level ...
For Sale
Listed By: Ballard Professionals
List Sold
List Sold $865,000
Beds SqFt Baths $/SqFt 5 6
3968 $218
DOM Built 36 1994
List Sold 04/03/13
Located In Riva Chase Estates, An Exclusive, Gated Community In The Foothills Just 20 Minutes From Denver, This Fabulous Five Bedroom, Five and One Half Bath Executive Home Features The Popular Floor Plan Of An Open Kitchen and Great Room, Formal Dining and Living Room As Well As The Study All On The Main Floor. Rare, Main Floor Master Bedroom Suite With Five Piece Bath, Two Sided Fireplace and Sitting Area. Three Spacious Bedrooms With Their Own Private, Full Baths On The Second Floor. Fully Finished Basement With Walkout Has An Expansive ...
Bi-Monthly Minutes from meeting of the BOD Riva Chase HOA Regular Meeting May 8, 2013, 4:00 p.m.
22876 Solitude Lane, Golden, CO 80401
Officers Present: Joy Lawrance, President John Carpenter, Treasurer Gary Sohrweid, 3rd Vice President Ron Kordof, 2nd Vice President Ann Nutt, 1st Vice President Roz Birkelo, Secretary 1. Prior Minutes reviewed via email and approved. 2. Treasurer Report: John Carpenter 2013 HOA Dues all but 4 homeowners have paid in full. One NSF / Bank fees will be assessed to the HO. 3. ACC / The ACC will have hard copies of the Governing Documents printed. Kathy Harms will distribute them when the Welcome Committee calls on new homeowners. Present homeowners will have copies available to them upon request. 4. Forest Hills Metro District: Ted Laves 1. Water Restrictions in affect as of May 1, 2013. 2. Fire Mitigation Study identified “hot spots” Tree thinning on Chippewa, Carpenters curve, and Eastwood Drive. 3. Pipe to Genesee still in the works / Expect to break ground June or July, 2013 (Note: to tap into 35mm of water supply, especially useful for fire dangers) 4. Road between Eastwood Dr. repair / replace 5. Jetting out sewers in June 6. MRE resigned New Business 1. Clean up Day: Winston Nutt / June 8, 2013, 8:00 a.m. 2. Looking at changing Trash Service provider 3. Riva Reader: Roz Birkelo / Motion to charge $25, $50, $75, and $100 for ads for business card, ¼ page, ½ page, or full page ads respectively seconded by Gary Sohrweid and unanimously approved. 4. Motion to purchase a solar light for the Eastwood sign seconded by John Carpenter and approved unanimously. Meeting Adjourned: 5:20 p.m.
May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
39
Balance Sheet As of May 6, 2013
provided by John Carpenter HOA Treasurer
Almost all of the homeowners paid their dues on time for 2013...Thanks! We need these funds to ensure the vitality of the Riva Chase HOA. As a reminder, there is a five dollar per month late fee for those dues that are not paid on time.
Riva Chase HOA Balance Sheet Summary May 6, 2013
ASSETS Current Assets Bank Accounts Accounts Receivable Other current assets Total Current Assets TOTAL ASSETS
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities Current Liabilities Accounts Receivable Other current assets Total Current Liabilities Total Liabilities Equity TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 40
Riva Reader | May / June 2013
Total 48,545.80 -‐5.00 2,343.00 $50,883.80 $50,883.80 6,500.00 -‐6,500.00 $0.00 $0.00 50,883.80 $50,883.80
Classifieds CHILD CARE / NANNY Riva Chase Babysitter Available Mature, reliable, responsible high school freshman available to babysit. Great with kids, Red Cross certified, lots of experience. Riva Chase resident. References available. Call Sarah - 303-526-2391 HOUSE SIT / PET SIT / CHILD CARE Mature 18 year old, college student available to house sit, pet sit, and baby sit. Have local references from Genesee and Riva Chase. Drew Pyykkonen - 303-324-9145 mammothoutlaws@comcast.net
Classified Ads are free for our residents. Please Email your ad to rivareader@gmail.com. Ads can include services or items for sale. If you have an article you’d like to write for our Riva Reader, please submit your article by Emailing rivareader@gmail.com To purchase ad space, the rates below apply to the digital output of the Riva Reader which will remain online indefinitely. Prices are per publication. Business Card $25 1/4 page $50 — 1/2 page $75 Full page $100 For information on advertising, please Email rivareader@gmail.com.
HOME SERVICES Lawn work | Snow Shoveling Two ‘Local’ Boys Ages 10 and 8 • Lawn work - picking up pine cones, raking needles/leaves • Light snow shoveling - walkways • Pet sitting - walking dogs, feeding pets • House sitting - water plants indoor/outdoor, checking on house
If you haven’t registered for Riva Chase’s new website, you are missing out on valuable information! Please go here to register: http://rivachasehoa.com/index.php/login/register then verify your email address and log on. Click the “Secure Site” tab for things like our neighborhood Directory, and Neighborhood pictures. Contact Karen Buelter if you have any questions or comments regarding the website. kbuelter@yahoo.com | www.rivachase.com
Bryan and Adam Shuler 303-526-0817 May / June 2013 | Riva Reader
41
Photo Courtesy of Roz Birkelo
Riva Chase is the best of all worlds.
You can easily access all that the greater Denver area has to offer. Yet still enjoy all the natural beauty, wildlife and tranquility found only in the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Live at Riva Chase. And make your dreams come true.
Exit #256, I-70 - south access Road heading West, on Genesee Ridge, and south on Forest Hills Drive. | www.rivachase.com
s