Neighborhood Gazette – September 2016 by Neighborhood Gazette

Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

WHEAT RIDGE | EDGEWATER | APPLEWOOD | MOUNTAIN VIEW | LAKESIDE September 20–October 17, 2016 • ngazette.com • FREE

Enough Trump & Clinton: What About Local Ballot Issues? n

By J. Patrick O’Leary

lthough some of you, dear readers, may be wringing hands or posting diatribes on social media over this year’s very contentious national presidential race, we at the Neighborhood Gazette would like to remind you there are important questions your cities, county and school district would like you to consider on this November’s ballot. There’s also the question of a fire district merger, with a special election set for Oct. 4 – see story on page 12. Infrastructure Improvements in Wheat Ridge – 2E Wheat Ridge voters will be asked to approve a temporary, 12-year sales tax increase of half a percent, and increase city debt by up to $33 million, to pay for four major infrastructure projects. Property taxes will remain unchanged. Improvements to Anderson Park are tagged at $4 million, and include renovation of the Anderson building and pool locker rooms; replacement of the pavilion; removal of the baseball field; and replacement of the two front parking lots. Reconstruction of Wadsworth Boulevard between West 35th Avenue and Interstate 70 will cost $7 million. It will include three travel lanes in each direction; 10-foot-wide sidewalks on each side; 10-foot-wide tree lawns on each n

Continued on page 2

KIDS FLOCKED TO THE FIELD GAMES AREA, hosted by Vitruvian Fitness, at RidgeFest 2016, where they were able to participate in all kinds of diﬀerent activities including a tug-of-war. With clear skies, it was the perfect day for over 6,000 people to show up to sample local beer, listen to live bluegrass music and hangout for some fun in the sun. PHOTO BY JOYCE JAY

Young Volunteers Make a Diﬀerence at Lutheran Medical Center n

By Elisabeth Monaghan

he estimated hourly amount a volunteer is worth equals $23.56, according to the 2015 Bureau of Labor Statistics. At Lutheran Medical Center in Wheat Ridge, there are approximately 550 volunteers who dedicate time to working with the hospital staff and patients. Last year, those volunteers gave 63,000 hours helping at Lutheran, its Cancer Centers of Colorado, Colorado Lutheran Home, West Pines or Lutheran Hospice. This is the equivalent of $1,413,600 in donated time. At any one time, there are at least 30 volunteers on the Lutheran campus. You can find volunteers assisting in nearly every department, performing tasks like baking cookies for labor and delivery, running the surgical reception desk, greeting people as they enter the hospital, serving as Eucharistic ministers, or wheeling patients who have just been discharged. The ages of the volunteers at Lutheran range from 14 to 93. Of those, 20 percent are high school students, or “Juniors,” as the Volunteer Leadership team refers to them. “It’s a good feeling to see these youth disproving what everybody says about their generation,” says Ron Scott, chair of Lutheran’s Volunteer Leadership Council. “I know I didn’t volunteer 300 hours when I was in high school. These students soften up the hospital so much. This is a place when you come in, you’re nervous, you’re scared and antsy. Low and behold, you walk in and see a 17-year-old Junior smiling at you

and offering to help. It helps calm everyone down.” The Juniors come from about eight different area high schools, including some from as far as Conifer or Evergreen. While volunteers receive tremendous gratification as their reward for their time, they also receive a number of perks. All volunteers receive discounts to Water World, select Rockies and Avalanche games, and select shows at the Arvada Center. Those Juniors, who volunteer a minimum of 350 hours by

April of their senior year of high school, can qualify for a one-time scholarship of up to $2,000. The Volunteer Leadership Council sets aside $20,000 per year for this scholarship program. Before they can begin their first shift, volunteers must attend a two-hour orientation, which is held on the first Saturday of the month, from 9 to 11 a.m. During orientation, volunteers receive training on how to avoid injuring the patients or themselves. They also learn

about HIPAA regulations, as well as training on the nine emergency codes that are announced over the facility’s speakers. To maintain a steady, if not growing volunteer staff, the hospital aims to draw at least 200 volunteers each year. Scott says they could easily place 50 new volunteers today. Currently, Lutheran has the greatest need for volunteers to work in the gift shop, Continued on page 8

N E I G H B O R H O O D B U S I N E S S B E AT

Harvest Time on Wheat Ridge’s Urban Farms n

By Nancy Hahn

5 FRIDGES FARMS, 11100 W. 38TH AVENUE, will host a honey tasting Oct. 2, 2-5 p.m., to beneﬁt the Urban Bee Project. The event will include a tour, lectures and a honey tasting featuring over 20 diﬀerent varieties. Everyone will go home with a small jar of honey! Tickets are $60 for individuals or $100 per couple. All of the proceeds go to the CU students involved in the project for 2017. Email info@5fridgesfarm.com early to reserve your space, there are only 30 spots available. PHOTO COURTESY 5 FRIDGES FARMS

heat Ridge began as a farm community and continued to be primarily farms and orchards until the 1960s. Housing took over and agriculture declined, but Wheat Ridge residents never quite gave up on growing their food. Walk around our neighborhoods and you will see pumpkin vines along driveways, rows of corn along fences, salad greens by the mailboxes, and tomatoes growing in pots on apartment balconies. Much larger scale urban agriculture, though, is booming now in Wheat Ridge, too. Although urban agriculture comes in many varieties; autumn and harvest time is an important time for all urban farmers. Continued on page 10

First Edgewater Chili Cook-off, Sept. 24

Candidate Meet & Greets, Sept. 27 & 29

West Metro, Wheat Ridge Fire Merger Vote

Page 7

Page 9

see page 12

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – ngazette.com

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Fighting Non-Medical Switching and outpatient visits. Switching treatments for non-medical reasons can have negative and potentially irreversible consequences, hroughout my 14 years in the legislature, including debilitating side effects and loss I have focused on issues I believe benefit of disease control. The cost of some of the the consumer and now I have one I intend medications used to treat these diseases to address in the 2017 legislative session. can be astronomical and reach This issue is called non-medical into thousands of dollars. When switching, or what I refer to as the patient’s insurance suddenly a true bait-and-switch scheme. stops covering the cost, many What is non-medical switching? cannot afford to continue the An insurance company or treatment. Psychiatric patients, Pharmacy Benefit Manager for example, who stop taking (PBM) will reduce or eliminate their medications because of a certain medication from their these drug coverage changes, formulary without any notice utilization management or to the doctor or patient. When copayment issues (according patients enroll in a health to the U.S. Pain Foundation), insurance plan, they sign a are 3.2 times more likely to be contract guaranteeing access to Cheri Jahn homeless. Some who stop their covered medications. Yet health medications are more than twice as likely to insurers are currently free to force stable be incarcerated or detained in jail, which we patients off their medications by making have seen countless times in our crowded plan adjustments, including raising outsystems. of-pocket costs on previously covered This issue must be tackled and I will bring drugs, or removing them from formularies all of the stakeholders to the table to start altogether during the plan year. It can take hammering out a solution. If an insurance a great deal of trial and error for a doctor company or PBM changes the rules of the and a patient to find the right medication contract midstream then I believe that is a to treat debilitating diseases like muscular breach. A doctor and patient should control dystrophy, epilepsy, diabetes, cancer, the medications needed for a disease; not an arthritis, and so many more. Shouldn’t the insurance company. In Colorado the doctor doctor and patient make the decision? can write To Be Dispensed As Written, and Why is this practice harmful? This then the prescription is not supposed to can harm patients living with complex be changed. But patients have spent hours conditions such as cancer, mental illness, fighting with insurance companies and arthritis, lupus and chronic pain as well PBMs to try and get the medications covered as other diseases. While the insurance and are not always successful. Maybe one company or PBM claims this is necessary solution will be that the consumer should because it is about cost savings, studies have then be allowed to change policies, without found that many patients with these diseases penalty, so their coverage can continue. that have experienced a non-medical Cheri Jahn is the State Senator for District 20. switch actually incur 37 percent higher She can be contacted by email at senator@ all-cause medical costs, which include cherijahn.com, or by calling 303-866-4856. hospitalizations, emergency-room visits, n

By Cheri Jahn

Local Issues Continued from page 1

side; a 10-foot-wide, two-way bike lane on the east side, between 35th and 44th; and 17-foot-wide center medians. Continuous Flow Intersections will be installed at the 38th and 44th avenue intersections; a demonstration video can be viewed on the city’s website. The Ward Road Station Area – the terminus of the soon-to-open G Line – will receive $12 million of work: reconstruction of adjacent portions of Ridge Road, West 52nd Avenue and Tabor Street; a traffic signal at the intersection of Ward and Ridge roads; and an over-track pedestrian bridge near Union and 49th Place. The Clear Creek Crossing development site – the empty space west of Interstate 70 between 38th and Youngfield – will get $10 million to construct “hook ramps” on and off of the westbound highway. That will involve removing the existing westbound off ramp at 32nd, and connecting the street to 32nd. City council approved the ballot question Aug. 22 and endorsed it Sept. 8, both by unanimous vote. If passed, the measure will add five cents to your $10 lunch. What About West 38th Avenue? Those who participated in the Cre8 Your 38 streetscape design process may be disappointed (or relieved) to see no funds for 38th Avenue streetscape improvements on council’s 2E wish list. A separate council proposal to up the sales tax one quarter of a percent for three years only mustered three of eight council votes. It would have raised $4.5 million for repaving, curb cuts, sidewalks, lights, art, landscaping and more between Upham and Harlan streets. New Civic Center in Edgewater – 2B The City of Edgewater is asking its voters for permission to go up to $9.9 million in debt to finance a new civic center. No increase of property or sales taxes were

requested, just authorization for a leasepurchase agreement to finance the project, which may include a new library, fitness center, city offices and police station. It will be located on a portion of the cityowned Walker Branch Library – permission is needed to use it for other than park purposes. The lease – necessary to provide collateral for financing – could be up to 35 years. Eligible, registered Edgewater voters will receive mail ballots starting Oct. 21, and voting centers will open on Oct. 24 and close after 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8. School Improvements – 3A & 3B Voters in the Jefferson County School District will be asked to increase their property taxes to raise $33 million and allow the district to borrow up to $535 million for long-term capital costs. Issue 3A will generate new operating funds, specifically to be used to offset any shortfall in state funding to maintain current programs and pay ($29.7 million); increased pay ($12.6 million); increased security and emergency management ($800,000); a half-time mental health counselor in every elementary school ($3.7 million); Student Based Budgeting ($12.2 million); additional custodial and support staff ($400,000); and charter school needs ($3.3 million). Issue 3B will allow the district to go into debt to make safety and security upgrades to school buildings; repair and improve 110 elementary, middle and high school buildings; equip schools with updated technology; repair and improve Outdoor Lab; and expand and equip classrooms and learning labs. The District plans improvements to Jefferson High School ($15 million), Wheat Ridge High School ($7.5 million), Prospect Valley Elementary ($25 million), Edgewater Elementary ($3 million), Lumberg Elementary ($4 million) and Everitt Elementary ($2.5 million deferred maintenance). The mill levy override – 3A – will cost approximately $4.12 per month, or $49.44 per year, per $100,000 of home value.

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

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Could I Survive? n

By Alexander Rea

like to think I have a pretty good life. I have a roof over my head, a job I enjoy, and an amazing family and friends who help me open new doors for successful opportunities. But what if I wasn’t so lucky? If I were to imagine a world where an 18-year-old like myself got thrown into real life after high school and was asked to survive, could I do it? Could I “see what it means to be living” like the Tracy Chapman song suggests? Well, in Wheat Ridge, I’m going to say it would be pretty tough. Only having a high school diploma, I couldn’t imagine there would be any six-figure job offers laying around. I will start with finding an affordable place to live. According to apartments.com, there are a variety of places located around Wheat Ridge ranging from $800 to $2,000 a month for rent. Obviously, I would be aiming for the lower end of that financial bracket. For the sake of an hypothetical argument, we can just assume that the utility bill would be around $115 a month, based on the Denver average. So already I have stacked up at least $900 in monthly bills. To add to that monthly plan, grocery requirements should roughly be around $200, and gas would cost an additional $60. Now, in this hypothetical world, the gas price and car insurance costs could be non-applicable with the use of public transportation, but this would also require a job that is accessible via mainstream transportation routes. Health insurance is required by law, so I could probably roll with a low-quality plan that would cost

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around $130 a month. It's clear I wouldn’t have won the lotto, so I would need a job that could account for my bill pile. As much as I love my current job, I do not believe it meets the correct wage requirements for me to be living on my own. If my math is correct, my job filter requires at least $10 an hour, for around 40 hours a week. Based on hiring postings around Wheat Ridge, there are plenty of opportunities that fit the minimum for this criteria. Since the digital age has swept societal interactions off its feet and overtaken its place, applying for jobs online is the only viable route. If I somehow make it through the roulette of online hiring, then, by this calculation, I should be able to “survive.” To me this world is too ideal. There are countless lurking variables left out in all of these processes. Take finding a house, for example. Wouldn’t I need good credit and a down payment? Health insurance plans have more loopholes than an M. Night Shyamalan film. I honestly think survival could work on paper, but I’m not too sure it would fall together like a perfectly-executed Hollywood film. IF it were somehow able to work, can I just ask: Is this really living? Paycheck-topaycheck, staying afloat month to month? It appears the Great Gatsby left out some details regarding the American dream. But I guess that wasn’t the question I asked in the beginning. Yeah, I guess I could survive, but I wouldn’t call it living. Alex Rea is a recent graduate of Wheat Ridge High School, and the former Editorin-Chief of its student publication, the Wheat Ridge Haystack.

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By Rachel Vigil

very day after cross-country practice, I board the bus and take it back to Denver from Wheat Ridge High School. Now, this bus ride isn’t bad; it’s about 20 minutes long and gets me where I need to be. However, I live only three minutes away from North High School by car. In fact, I could walk to North faster than my current bus ride; yet kids from both Wheat Ridge and Denver often go to schools much further afield from their neighborhoods. Open enrollment, or the ability of students to attend schools outside of their zoning district, was first allowed in Colorado in the 1994-1995 school year under the Public Schools of Choice law. Before that law was passed, students could only attend their assigned neighborhood school. Now, schools are made up of children from nearly every area in the state, regardless of their home address. I personally attend Wheat Ridge High because it was where my older sister went. When my sister was reviewing her high school options 13 years ago, North High School only offered three Advanced Placement or AP courses. At the time, it seemed obvious to our family to send her to Wheat Ridge instead. These days, however, it's much less clear. North offers fewer AP courses than Wheat Ridge and has turned around the proficiency levels for reading and math among its students. Now that North and Wheat Ridge are on increasingly equal footing with each other, I am forced to wonder what the benefits of attending Wheat Ridge really are. Don't get me wrong, I love my teachers and classes, but how different would those feelings truly be at another school?

The policy of open enrollment also decreases the sense of community among some students who spend almost all of their leisure time away from the city of Wheat Ridge. I still don't quite understand the culture of the city of Wheat Ridge and don't consider myself a member of its community. Sometimes small aspects of the city take me aback. Sidewalks here were fairly surprising to me my freshman year. Nearly every street in Denver has a sidewalk, but in Wheat Ridge there will often be huge stretches of road with no sidewalks. I'm often amazed by how different a town that borders Denver can be. There are, of course, advantages to open enrollment. For students who live near schools with poor performance, it is considerably easier for students to go to a better one with diverse class choices. This also has the consequence of slowing down school improvement by diverting the best students from schools, where their proficiency could make a considerable dent in a bad record, to ones with a high number of overachievers. While I'm not sure how much better of worse off I am in Wheat Ridge, I'm here to stay. The school's atmosphere is welcoming, and inside its halls, no one cares where you grew up. Some students have made the best of inefficient schools, while others have squandered their opportunities at the topranked schools. As our schools constantly change and diversify, especially as the population of Colorado rapidly expands, it’s important to remember that a school is not the place where it is located, and neither are our students. Rachel Vigil is a student at Wheat Ridge High School.

HAVE A NEWS TIP OR STORY IDEA? Send it to editor@ngazette.com

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Without getting technical or political, can you please sum up three good reasons why voters should support the board's request for additional funding (bond/mill levy)? Saying “yes” to the bond means that we are going to be able to provide safe and quality learning environments for our 86,000 students by extending the life of existing buildings, better utilize our existing facilities, and provide additional new square footage in our high-growth areas. The mill levy override will allow us to provide students with the instruction, skills and hands-on learning opportunities necessary for success in college and the workforce through the expansion of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) programs as well as arts, music and career and technical programs. In addition, the mill levy override will allow us to attract and retain high-quality teachers through a transparent and competitive compensation system. In short, we believe that a high-quality teacher in an adequate, safe and quality space with the right resources and support can make all the difference in the world for our students. Are you concerned that you are competing with municipalities for that same tax dollar? Of course we want to keep the impact to our taxpayers to a reasonable level. I believe now that the economy has begun moving forward again we have a duty and responsibility to take care of our most valuable asset, our students and their future. Thank you, Dan McMinimee, Superintendent, Jefferson County Public Schools These are responses to questions submitted by members of our community. If you have a question for Superintendent McMinimee, please submit it to guy@NostalgicHomes.com or call it in to 303-999-5789.

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Baccalaureate program at Lakewood High (including my own), it was great to see many Farmers and old Prospect Valley parents was absolutely inundated with the amount this past Sunday at the Tiger Prowl. With of great and not-so-great topics to write so many Wheat Ridge parents choosing about this month. After all, it was a relatively charters over our neighborhood schools, quiet summer. With my two kids back in the it's always been great to see our Lakewood same school and one of them driving, I was neighbors choosing our own Wheat Ridge left with more time in the morning to have schools for their students. that second cup of coffee. I was so proud to conduct Clearly election time is upon the customer service class for us and while the big picture is the Wheat Ridge seniors' class up for grabs, our community is today. It’s part of the career being asked for a lot of money in ready program organized by exchange for a long list of much the Jefferson County Business needed improvements. Of course, Education Alliance, which gets not everyone is in agreement. our students trained in writing The teachers' union is under fire resumes and interviewing for from some of its members for the jobs by bringing in critical contract they negotiated. I would thinkers in whatever careers urge everyone to clearly read the Guy Nahmiach the students choose. If you are difference between 3A and 3B. interested in making a difference with our You can choose to vote differently on each. youth, contact Joni Inman at 303-568-0874. With PARCC results out, many of The topic of homework has been a hot our schools are showing a big drop in issue in the news and at my house. Many performance. This begs the question of how teachers have decided not to assign any we are measuring results versus increased to their students. The concept of letting funding. In looking at the pathway in our students recharge their batteries and rest own city where Stevens leads into Everitt their minds is all good, but only if the and then onto Wheat Ridge High, I have next year's teacher is of the same opinion. to wonder about a sixth grade class where Otherwise it's a rude awakening for the only 20 percent of the sixth graders meet student and, of course, their parents. How or exceed the state standards in math and about some consistency in this area, please? only 28 percent of that same class meets The Jeffco Gifted and Talented the English standards. This explains why association is holding an evening on half the freshmen start high school at a September 26th with Dr. James T. Webb, disadvantage. Keep in mind that Stevens is a recognized as one of the most influential Title One school, well funded with plenty of psychologists nationally on gifted education. resources. You can get more info on this meeting at Meanwhile Everitt Middle has partnered 303-982-6650. up with Wheat Ridge Cyclery to create I saved the best for the last: Mrs. Hutton a program that brought 15 bikes to the is back! Prospect Valley has brought back the school, and is teaching students the basics legendary and child-inspiring Jan Hutton of changing flat tires, maintenance and safe to work with our young readers. Welcome biking through the Greenbelt. I love the local back, Jan. partnerships. I wish you all a great school year. Call The town is also getting excited about our or write me with any topics you want me to popular fundraisers: the Farmers 5000 over write about. at Wheat Ridge High School last Sunday and As always, thanks for reading. the Prospect Valley Gold Rush 5K on Oct. 9. Contact Guy Nahmiach at 303-999Both are great causes and fun for the family. 5789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com. Speaking of which, with so many Wheat Ridge families attending the International

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – ngazette.com

WHEAT RIDGE MAYOR

WHEAT RIDGE CITY COUNCIL

Heck Yes Wheat Ridge!

Why Wheat Ridge Should Vote in Favor of 2E

Task Force. One of the most important n By Joyce Jay features about these projects is the economic potential they have. Our investment of would like to take this time to thank you, a “yes” vote this November will result in the community of Wheat Ridge. I want to development and improvements in key thank you for saying “yes” to Wheat Ridge areas of the city that will result in increased by being involved in your community; by financial sustainability of the city. coming to public meetings when you are Currently, we have the lowest property already busy; by taking the time to share your tax in the metro area and one of the lowest thoughts with me; by reading articles about sales tax rates. Now is the time your community; by serving on for investment. I am ridiculously a board or committee, and by excited about the opportunities showing your commitment to ahead of us. The Gold line project this city we love. We may not is such an exciting addition always agree on everything but to Wheat Ridge. The opening we share a love for Wheat Ridge. of the G Line commuter rail I have considered Wheat this fall connects us to a great Ridge my home for over 30 years new transportation option to and serving as first your council downtown Denver. The area is member and now your mayor is ripe with possibility for housing, an honor. I want to thank you employment centers, and maybe for saying “yes” to Wheat Ridge Joyce Jay even some village-style shopping. through your engagement with Investment in the surrounding your community, and I ask you infrastructure of the station area is so very to say “yes” to Wheat Ridge by voting for 2E important as it becomes a new key area of in the upcoming election. the city that thousands of people visit. Wheat Ridge is at a pivotal time in its The sales tax increase equals about one history. Investing in our city today is how nickel to every $10 spent in Wheat Ridge we can make sure there is a great tomorrow. by residents and non-residents – and is Ballot measure 2E is a proposal of a one-half automatically sunsetted in 12 years. Now cent sales tax increase to sunset in 12 years, is the time to invest and say “Heck Yes” dedicated to four necessary investments in to Wheat Ridge. Great today and better our future, Wadsworth Widening, Gold Line tomorrow! Development area, Clear Creek Crossing, For more information on 2E visit www. and improvements to the Anderson yeswheatridge.org. Building. These projects were some of Contact Wheat Ridge Mayor Joyce Jay at the projects prioritized by the Drainage, 303-420-8533 or jjay@ci.wheatridge.co.us. Roadways, Infrastructure, and Trails Citizen

No Hard Sales, Just Friendly Service

surrounding what will be the final stop of the Gold Line. Clear Creek Crossing. Great news! There his Election Day, the City of Wheat is a developer interested in this mixed-use Ridge will have a question on the ballot site on the west side of I-70 at 38th Avenue that is vital to our city’s future development. and Youngfield. Discussions to facilitate a Ballot initiative 2E will ask for a one-half sale are in progress, but we need cent increase per dollar in the to improve access to the site sales-and-use tax, and the while relieving traffic. The funds proceeds will be used only for will be used for construction of the following four projects: hook ramps on and off I-70 into Wadsworth Boulevard the development. reconstruction. The city has At the Sept. 12 city council received more than $28 million meeting, we voted unanimously in grants and assistance to to support this ballot initiative improve the Wadsworth to increase the sales-and-use corridor, providing multi-modal tax. For me, here’s why: transportation, relieving and This ballot is intended to mitigating traffic congestion and Kristi Davis increase the sales-and-use tax, improving streetscapes. For the NOT property taxes, for these projects. grant to be awarded, the city must match a The increase will sunset after 12 years. portion of the grant funds. About half of the revenues we generate Anderson Park improvements. The by sales taxes are provided by non-Wheat funds will support renovations to the very Ridge residents. Residents from other cities old outdoor pool locker rooms, which will are helping us pay for our improvements! include family-designated facilities. Funds Our current sales tax is lower than the also will be used to improve the surrounding sales taxes in our surrounding communities, park. so this modest increase is reasonable and Ward Road Commuter Rail Station. The positions us more evenly with our neighbors. Gold Line soon will stop in Wheat Ridge, As a citizen of Wheat Ridge, I am excited and this is the perfect place for our city to to vote for this ballot initiative, as it will shine! Funds will support construction support development in our community – of the street, bicycle and pedestrian an essential investment in our future. pathways, public amenities and other Contact District II City Council Repreinfrastructure improvements. We’ll address sentative Kristi Davis at 303-757-8488 or traffic and growth, and facilitate economic KDavis@ci.wheatridge.co.us. development and redevelopment in the area n

By Kristi Davis

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this populated area was looking more like a city and less like predominantly agricultural uses. With the need for safety, education heat Ridge has a rich history and and other services, the residents banded heritage. While we are a relatively together to make Wheat Ridge its own city young municipality founded in 1969, Wheat and not simply a neighborhood of Denver Ridge has many characters, interesting or Jefferson City, now known as Lakewood. commerce and natural beauty. I have That unique character and independent been giving tours of Wheat Ridge for streak is easily spotted in Wheat Ridge nearly a decade and am still learning new to this day. Our commercial things every week about our areas and neighborhoods have community. grown and filled in. With it have During the days of the gold arrived interesting businesses rush around 1859, this area was and adventurous entrepreneurs a rest stop for miners headed to as well as hard-working people gold camps in the mountains. looking for a special place to Of course, not everyone struck raise families, rest their heads gold and some took to their and live peacefully. agrarian roots, working the soil It has been a joy and planting crops. Travelers getting to know the different passing through would remark neighborhoods, parks and on the golden ridges of wheat in Britta Fisher business districts of Wheat our area and we became known Ridge. There are surprising gems as Wheat Ridge. throughout the city. You can discover more By the 1880s the crops and land use had by coming on a tour. Our Explore Wheat changed from predominantly wheat farming Ridge bus tour is coming up on Saturday, to a majority of smaller truck farms. Some Oct. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. You will likely of the crops grown in Wheat Ridge included see streets you never knew were in Wheat apples, cherries, raspberries, strawberries, Ridge and learn about local businesses, currants, plums, blackberries, Pascal celery like which establishment has the most and a variety of vegetables. Eventually beers on tap. Or explore on your own and flowers, and particularly carnations, were a let Localworks know about your favorite common crop. Davis Brothers Florists was a Wheat Ridge gems. If you are on Instagram premier carnation grower and worked with post with the hashtag #WheatRidgeGem many of the growers in the area. and I will look into adding some of your While the crops changed in value over favorite places and tidbits to our tour. time and different blights and pests came For tour information and tickets, and to and went, the area was also becoming learn more about Localworks, please visit more valuable for human dwelling with WeAreLocalworks.org. the growth of the metro Denver area. Soon Britta Fisher is the Executive Director Wheat Ridge was becoming more filled in of Localworks and a Wheat Ridge resiwith homes and businesses, neighborhoods dent. and developments came into existence, and n

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ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

EDGEWATER CITY NEWS Homecoming and Spirit Week at Jefferson High School n

By Joel Newton

Numerous activities are planned for students, alumni and the community during Edgewater’s Jefferson Junior/Senior High School Homecoming and Spirit Week, Sept. 19-23. Each day of Spirit Week students will be showing off their school pride by different theme days such as “Tacky Tropical Tourist Day” and “Hurricane Hair Day.” Then on Thursday, Jefferson continues the tradition of having a Homecoming Bonfire for students and staff. On Friday, Sept. 23 students and staff will take part in a Homecoming Tailgate from 2 to 3 p.m. at Jefferson and then take a spirit bus to the Homecoming football game. The Homecoming football game against Sheridan will be at 4 p.m. at Trailblazer Stadium (100 S. Kipling St., Lakewood). The Class of 1986 and all Saints alumni are encouraged to attend the football game on Friday afternoon. On Saturday, Sept. 24 there will be a tour of Jefferson Junior/ Senior High School at 11 a.m, followed by a Meet & Greet/Picnic at Daniels Park (1315 Welch St., Lakewood) for alumni.

Youth Farmers’ Market Coming to Jefferson Jr/Sr High School Thanks to a partnership with Slow Food Denver, Denver Urban Gardens, Edgewater Collective and HEALthy Edgewater, Jefferson Junior/Senior High School will have a Youth Farmers’ Market on Fridays starting on Sept. 30. Students from Jefferson’s FCCLA Club will run the market with help from community volunteers. The

market will be located on the west side of Pierce Street just south of 24th Avenue and will be open from 3 to 5 p.m.

First Edgewater Chili Cook-off, Sept. 24 Lightway at Sloans (a local Edgewater Preschool) and Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI) have partnered to stage the first-ever Edgewater Chili Cookoff, Saturday, Sept. 24, on West 25th Avenue between Benton and Chase streets. Judging begins at 1 p.m., but contestants will show up at 7 a.m. and start cooking at 8 a.m. Featuring live entertainment and some of the best chili made around the world, all proceeds from registration fees and donations will be distributed back to the kids of the Edgewater Community. “As we all know, it is all too common for teachers (and our local Edgewater library staff) to purchase materials and supplies with their own personal money,” event organizers stated in a press release. “Lightway and CASI are teaming up in hopes to have a fun memorable day, and raise funds to purchase materials and supplies to then give back to the amazing Edgewater library and donate to our local Edgewater Elementary!” The cook-off is unique because the top three Colorado chili winners will automatically be qualified to go to the World Championship in Terlingua, Texas, which is held the first weekend in November 2016. Chefs are encouraged to dust off their aprons, pots and pans and join some of Edgewater's parents, teachers and local business owners in the challenge. Entry fees for contestants are $15 to enter either red or green chili, $25 to enter if cooking both red and green chili. Donations are welcome to come and taste. For more information, contact Meg Havens at 614-496-1364 or meg@lightwayatsloans.com.

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EDGEWATER MAYOR Is Society Judged by its Prisons? While I’m at it, I would also like to make a plug for County Commissioner Casey Tighe. Casey is running for re-election, and yodor Dostoyevsky once stated, “The it is important that he retains his seat. Jeffco degree of civilization in a society can has many special districts, municipalities, be judged by entering its prisons.” I find agencies and entities working on many this quote quite haunting, for one injustice different issues. Needless to say, Jeffco is revealed means a thousand go unnoticed. I a very diverse community. Casey has the do believe the United States, and in particular natural ability to listen, collaborate and build the 1st Judicial District of Colorado, must relationships across these diverse interests take a hard look at the last 50 years of policy. and issues. Without the ability to build those While I fully agree those who have been bridges, a fragmented and isolated policy convicted of violent crimes should serve ensues, causing divisiveness and dissension. It out their terms, I also believe we must find is imperative we have a county commissioner alternative ways to rehabilitate those who that can bring people to the table have been convicted of nonand effect change on a broad violent offenses. policy front. We can no longer afford, I am also publicly spiritually and fiscally, to supporting Jeffco Public Schools’ continually invest in a monstrous 3A & 3B initiative. Public prison system built upon the education is the foundation of backs of the impoverished. We an enlightened society and the can no longer afford to wage war great equalizer of opportunity. on substance abuse and mental Without an educated populace illness. We cannot allow the our republican institutions privatization of our prisons. Our decay along with our democratic communities deserve better, and Kris Teegardin ideals. Edgewater and Lumberg that starts with electing a district elementary and Jefferson Jr./ attorney that will work with Sr. High School stand to gain $3 million, others finding solutions to these problems. $4 million, and $15 million respectively in I support Jake Lilly for District Attorney, capital improvements. for I truly believe he will implement policy Lastly, as a citizen of Edgewater who that will keep violent offenders behind bars happens to be mayor, I am supporting the and rehabilitate those in need of support and civic center ballot initiative. Please visit structure. Citizens for the Edgewater Civic Center’s I serve on the 1st Judicial Criminal website at www.C4ECC.com for information. Justice Coordinating Committee, and I am If you have any questions or concerns, please looking forward to working with Jake. He do not hesitate to contact me. has great ideas, a strong sense of service, and Contact Edgewater Mayor Kris Teeunbounded energy. It is time for a change gardin at 720-568-0461 or kteegardin@ folks. Please visit his website at jakelilly. edgewaterco.com. com. n

By Kris Teegardin

EDGEWATER AT 25TH & SHERIDAN

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – ngazette.com

Volunteers Continued from page 1

the surgical waiting area and with hospice care. Lutheran recently announced a new program, where they plan to place one or two volunteers at every nursing station throughout the hospital, which means they will be looking for volunteers to fill those slots, too. Those interested in volunteering at Lutheran can get started by downloading an application from the hospital’s website. To qualify, applicants must pass a drug test and be screened twice for tuberculosis prior to starting. All volunteers must have a pleasant demeanor and be able to provide exceptional

customer service. They also must commit to volunteering for at least 150 hours over the course of their service. Given that some volunteers dedicate at least 300 hours per year, including the Juniors, who in addition to volunteering are also attending school fulltime and preparing for college, the time commitment is not a lot to ask. The Volunteer Services staff suggests each person work at least one three-hour shift each week, in order to stay updated on hospital activities and to ensure they don’t lose touch with the important work they do, or the people whose time in the hospital is made a bit better because of a volunteer’s presence. To learn more about volunteering for Lutheran Medical Center, visit www. lutheranmedicalcenter.org/volunteer.

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MEDICALLY SPEAKING Screenings are Key in Cancer Prevention testing. Screening for cervical cancer involves having a Pap smear test performed at your re you up to date with your primary care doctor's office or gynecologist's recommended cancer screenings? office. Screening intervals depend on your September is gynecological cancer age and personal history, but generally awareness month, and it is a great time to screening begins at age 21 and continues catch up on those important appointments. through age 65. Some women may be Women should have regular screening eligible for extended screening intervals for breast and cervical cancer, and how after age 30. often and what type of screening Human papillomavirus depends on your age. (HPV) testing for women at Screening for breast higher risk is usually performed cancer with mammography is during a Pap smear for women at recommended for all women age 30 and over to help determine ages 40 and over every one or proper screening intervals and to two years, and then annually help decide which women may after age 50. Women with a need additional testing. family history of breast cancer While uterine and may be eligible for earlier ovarian cancer do not have screenings. specific screening tests, there Mammograms can be Jennifer Grube are some warning signs that if scheduled by simply calling the present should prompt a visit to imaging center of your choice – your doctor's office. These include abnormal you do not need a referral or a prescription bleeding with periods, vaginal bleeding from a doctor in most cases. after menopause, bloating or persistent Currently, the best technology for breast abdominal or pelvic pain, or unusual vaginal cancer screening is a mammogram. Newer discharge. technologies, such as Tomosynthesis, or It is important for your continued 3-D mammograms, are more precise than health and well-being to see your primary traditional mammograms. They allow care physician or gynecologist in order improved detection rates for breast cancer to understand your personal risk factors and fewer false positive results or "call for cancer, if any, and to stay current on backs" for further imaging, especially for recommended screenings. Early detection women with denser breast tissue. is the key to cancer prevention. If a woman has a strong family history of Jennifer Grube, MD, is chair of Obstetbreast cancer, she may be eligible for genetic rics & Gynecology at Lutheran Medical testing for inherited cancer genes. A visit Center and a physician with Red Rocks with a genetic counselor can be helpful in OB-Gyn. determining if you are eligible for additional n

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few years ago, I was walking with a friend – someone who I had just met a few months earlier – and she began telling me how she was going through a rough patch. She was self-harming, misusing pills and skipping work. I remember a lot about that conversation: it was a warm summer night and we were walking along the Mississippi River in Minneapolis. I remember I hated my job and contemplated skipping work some days, too. Mostly I remember I froze; I had no clue what to say or how to react. In spite of me being an incredibly empathetic person and experiencing my own struggles, I didn’t want to say the wrong thing. I didn’t want to panic, but I also didn’t want to just brush it off as if it wasn’t a big deal. I didn’t want to invalidate her feelings, but I didn’t want to try to “fix” her. She is not, nor has she ever been, broken – just like anyone else struggling with mental health issues. Fast forward to now. This past week, that same friend told me that she has some extreme hormone imbalances and they are contributing to a handful of physical health issues for her. I immediately asked her questions about symptoms and what she’s doing to help alleviate them. I looked up “hormone imbalances” online to educate myself and asked how I can help. Do you see the difference? With the physical health issues, I knew what to do. I knew to ask questions and find out how to help. There was no shame in talking about these things. With her mental health struggles, I didn’t know how to approach the topic in the least bit. As a society, we are prepared for physical health issues. We talk about it without fear of judgment; we ask our doctors honest questions; we proudly wear ribbons and

walk for illnesses like breast cancer and MS; we get trained in CPR and first aid. What about mental health? Although awareness of mental health problems is continuing to gain momentum, there’s still more to be done. Enter Mental Health First Aid, training that gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing mental health or substance use problems, or experiencing a crisis. Mental Health First Aid is an eight-hour course that teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance use disorders. The class (which I have taken) arms you with the skills to help a stranger in the supermarket who’s having a panic attack, ask someone if they’re considering suicide and talking to a friend or family member who’s struggling with mental health issues. Approximately one in five adults in the United States —43.8 million, or 18.5 percent — experiences mental illness in a given year. I have a handful of friends who struggle with mental health issues … anxiety, addiction, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia and more. This class has given me the courage to ask them questions and have candid, honest conversations with them, learn about their conditions and most of all, ask them how I can help. From doing this, I’ve learned – more than anything – my friends WANT to have this dialogue. It’s like a breath of fresh air to them. I’m now more in tune with their actions and behavior patterns and I know what they need from me: • I know to check in often with my friend who’s pregnant and just went back on anxiety meds because she had a panic attack. Continued on page 9

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

WHAT’S HAPPENING Shots For Tots and Teens Now Available in Jeffco Jefferson County Public Health’s (JCPH) Immunization and Emergency Preparedness Programs have partnered with the Arvada Fire Department and the Colorado Children’s Immunization Coalition to open Shots For Tots and Teens, community-based immunization clinics for children and adolescents. The program’s goal is to make sure every child receives the immunizations needed to keep them healthy, offering low- and no-cost Saturday immunization clinics throughout the year with the help of experienced immunization public health nurses, fire medics, paramedics, health care and community volunteers. Each clinic also offers fun activities and prizes for kids, including fire engine and ambulance tours. The next clinic is Saturday, Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Arvada Fire Station #2, 5250 Oak St., Arvada. All recommended immunizations are available for children ages birth through 18 years. No appointment is necessary, and clients are served on a first-come, firstserved basis. Parents or legal guardians must be present for minors and are urged to bring immunization records to each visit. If maximum capacity is reached at the clinic, some patients may be referred for an appointment to their local public health. For more information, or to make an appointment at one of the county’s regularly scheduled immunization clinics, offered Monday through Friday, call 303-239-7078.

Stolen Art Recovered, Suspect Charged Wheat Ridge Police arrested an in-home caregiver on Sept. 9 for allegedly stealing art from the elderly artist she was to care for. On Aug. 9 the family of 84-year-old artist Delores Toscano reported that more than 600 pieces of southwestern art had been stolen from her Wheat Ridge home. The report indicated that both originals and prints of paintings and charcoal drawings had been stolen as well as jewelry and a sculpture collectively valued at over $100,000. The investigation lead to 51-year-old Shawn West, who had been hired as an inhome caregiver for the victim. Wheat Ridge detectives set up an undercover purchase of some of the art from West. They recovered 17 pieces at the buy and, with a search warrant, an additional 66 items from West’s Aurora home.

Family Health Continued from page 8

• I know to be a grounding sense of reality for my friend when we’re getting coffee in our hometown because that’s where he had a massive psychotic breakdown. • I know to reach out to another friend incessantly when she doesn’t respond to my call for a few days because she’s crawled back into her turtle shell of depression. • I know that when I don’t hear from one friend or see any posts on social media, I need to do some digging to be sure he didn’t relapse again. Becoming trained in Mental Health First Aid has helped me have the hard conversations and be a better friend. I’ve used it in many situations and it has benefited me more than I could ever have imagined. Jefferson Center for Mental Health offers these courses free to our community. For more information or to register for a Mental Health First Aid class, visit www. jcmh.org/mental-health-first-aid/ Shannon Gwash is the marketing and public relations manager for Jefferson Center for Mental Health. She is also a Certified Mayo Clinic Wellness Coach and can be reached at shannong@jcmh.org.

West was arrested and is being housed at the Jefferson County Jail; the crime was reported as a Theft From an At Risk Adult.

Submit 'Gems’ for Explore Wheat Ridge Bus Tour, Oct. 22 Localworks is looking for a few of the city’s “gems” to include on its Explore Wheat Ridge bus tour, set for Saturday, Oct. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. The event gives guests a chance to see streets they never knew were in the city and learn about local businesses. Have a favorite place or tidbit about the city you’d like to share? If you are on Instagram, post with the hashtag #WheatRidgeGem and Localworks will consider adding it to the tour. For tour information and tickets, and to learn more about Localworks, visit WeAreLocalworks.org.

Senior Vendors Sought for Stitch 'n Chatter Bazaar and Bake Sale, Oct. 22 Are you 55 or older and have crafts or wares to sell? Sign up for the third annual Stitch ‘n Chatter Fall Craft Bazaar and Bake Sale, hosted by Edgewater’s American Legion Post 17, Saturday, Oct. 22, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at 1901 Harlan St. The one-of-a-kind event features the handiwork of senior-aged, older adult crafters – great gifts for the coming holiday season – plus a bake sale and door prizes. Booth rental is just $15; admission is free. Sponsors include Colorado Senior Connections in Edgewater, City of Edgewater, and Jewish Family Service. For more information, contact Felicia Goett at 720-763-3042.

League of Women Voters Hosts Candidate Meet & Greets, Sept. 27 & 29 The Jeffco League of Women Voters is hosting its last two public candidate Meet & Greet events in late September. Invited candidates include Colorado Legislature House Districts 1, 22, 23, 24, 25, 27, 28, 29 and Senate District 19; District Attorney District 1; RTD Districts D and M; CU Regents; Jefferson County Surveyor and Jefferson County Commissioners. The Sept. 27 Meet & Greet is the closest, held 7 to 9 p.m. at Carmody Middle School,

2050 S. Kipling St., Lakewood. The county commissioner candidates will not be present at this event due to a prior commitment. If you’re willing to travel farther afield, the Sept. 29 Meet & Greet takes place 7 to 9 p.m. at Columbine High School, 6201 S. Pierce St., Littleton.

Focus on Wheat Ridge Business

For more information on the Jeffco League of Women Voters, visit www.lwvjeffco.org

Public-Private Partnership Cares For Wheat Ridge Greenbelt Open Space A new tree-watering program had Wheat Ridge kids out caring for a flora in the municipal greenbelt along Clear Creek this summer when newly planted trees, shrubs, and grasses needed it the most. A group from Wheat Ridge Sun Camp at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, calling themselves the Tree Ambassadors, watered the plantings along the new Clear Creek Trail access at West 42nd Avenue and Kipling Street. The summer camp project is a partnership between the Institute for Environmental Solutions and Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Department.

Powerlifting Competition Comes to Anderson Park, Sept. 25 USA Powerlifting (USAP) can be seen in Wheat Ridge on Sunday, Sept. 25, when the inaugural Colorado Fall Open takes place at Anderson Park, 4355 Field St. Lifting is expected to start at 10 a.m. USAPL is the leading drug-free powerlifting federation in the United States and part of the International Powerlifting Federation – the only powerlifting federation recognized by the International Olympic Committee and represented in the World Games. For more information visit www. RegOnline.com/USAPLCOFallOpen or contact Competition Director Jason Wood jwoodrkc@gmail.com or 203-241-4709.

Have a community announcement for Happenings? Send it to editor@ngazette.com

Christina Pulciani is here today for when tomorrow gets too unpredictable By Benjamin Hollenbeck Christina Pulciani is here today for when tomorrow gets too unpredictable Depending on whom you ask, and what it’s covering, insurance can be quite a sensitive topic to broach with just about anyone. As hard as it can be to think about, and as much as we don’t want to discuss it, there are events that happen in life. Unpredictable things can occur too, and when those extreme circumstances come together to form the perfect storm in our lives, it’s usually in those moments that we need and finally recognize the value of our insurance. Born and raised in Denver, Christina Pulciani is home grown insurance agent, with Italian roots. When not consulting clients about the important decisions of today, she volunteers her time, and regularly donates money to higher pursuits for a greater tomorrow. For example, she is also a meditation practitioner and helps BeMindful, a nonprofit that teaches meditation, clarity and mindfulness to kids at the high school level, as well as at homeless shelters. Equally talented as she is humble, Christina shares that it’s hard work. It’s not that people think they are invincible, there wouldn’t be insurance if that was the case, but most times it’s because people don’t want to spend the money, or they just get the cheapest insurance they can find. Worse, some potential clients don’t always think about certain insurances being a necessity. I wouldn’t have guessed that Christina has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years; immediately after meeting her, I noticed how laid back she was, and made note of her friendly demeanor. Our interview ran longer than most I’ve done, and one of my favorite parts about it was sharing quotes with one another that have inspired us. She went on to explained how when she started out, it was from the bottom, and she had very little help. Faced with many forks in the road at different points throughout her life, it was the events of 9/11 that has left a large impact on her to this day. After moving 5 times, she’s happiest with her newest location which is easily accessible off 44th Ave. Do you need a new insurance policy, or have you think about switching companies? Christina is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5 pm, located at 6701 W. 44th Ave Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. Call (303) 463-1750 today for more information or to set up an appointment! COURTESY OF

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – ngazette.com

NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS BEAT Amanda Weaver at 5 Fridges Farm At 5 Fridges Farm a lot more happens at “harvest time’ than just harvesting crops. Because 5 Fridges has many animals, there is a lot of preparation for winter to begin. Barns need to be made ready, and heating and plumbing systems must be checked. Certainly, crops are harvested. Some are stored. Some are reserved for people who have purchased shares. Some crops are used as food for animals. Both goats and chickens have jobs to do in the fields. Goats eat the weeds, or what is left of plants after crops are harvested. Chickens eat weeds and bugs, too. Both, also, fertilize the field. Without this fertilization, the fields on land farmed since the1930s would produce less successful crops over time. For Amanda Weaver, this balance – the give and take – is what is special about farm life. Autumn is busy. Crops are grown and harvested. Baby goats, chicks, and turkeys are grown. Some animals will be harvested, too, like the huge Thanksgiving turkeys. Now as the season turns, there is less sunshine. Bees have eaten their honey, readying for cold weather. Chickens stop laying eggs. No wild babies bounce around

the fields. It is a time when animals grow less active. While they are less active, they still must be fed, cared for and protected. There are no crops to care for, but this is a time for other activities. Canning and preserving the bounty from the fields takes the place of gathering fresh food. “The change of seasons and the more quiet activities give us time to be thoughtful about the processes that provide us with our food and to see the connections between the two,” says Amanda Weaver. 5 Fridges Farm is at 11100 W. 38th Ave. To find out more about 5 Fridges Farm, check out www. 5fridgesfarm.com or call 303-725-8748.

Chris and Elizabeth McClune and Roost Farms Before the McClune family moved from Denver to begin their urban farm, they researched communities. Wheat Ridge had, by far, the most welcoming laws for urban farmers. Wheat Ridge also was the perfect spot for Elizabeth McClune, who teaches at Phoenix Renaissance School. The backyard provides space for chickens, Nubian goats, and creative play places for the McClune children. The front yard was full of trees,

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mostly dead. When the trees were removed and a semi-load of organic compost was delivered, Chris McClune began creating the raised beds one at a time. Create a bed, fill it, plant it, and repeat. “This was a labor of love with the emphasis on labor,” says McClune. It was important not only to create the farm, but to become part of the community. Working in the front yard every day was a great way to meet the community. The front yard of Roost Farms on 32nd Ave. is not only full of the McClune family’s vegetable and fruit crops, but there are also flowers and more flowers. Roost Farm does not take produce to farmers markets but practices CSA, which stands for community-supported agriculture. Community members buy shares each year. Members who have purchased shares pick up fresh produce each week. The farm focuses on eggs, honey and vegetables. Members, picking up their weekly shares, also receive fruit, a bouquet of flowers, a loaf of homemade bread, and sometimes, even beer. Harvesting is done each week to fill the grocery bags of the farm members. There is a definite difference throughout the 16 weeks of the growing season, though. Early summer is the least abundant time, while

PHOTO: ROOSTFARMS.COM

fall is the fullest season. Cool nights enable greens to grow, be cut, and regrow most of the growing season. Many ripe vegetables can be picked one week, and more ripen for the next week. Fall, is not just harvest time. It is also a time to prepare for winter and for the next spring. Chris McClune says it is a time to read, to research ideas, to study seed catalogs, and to plan for spring. Roost Farms is at 7395 W. 32nd Ave. in Wheat Ridge, behind a wall of sunflowers. For more information about Roost Farms, visit www.roostfarms.com, or call 303-330-9237.

OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP BREAKFAST FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP BREAKFAST*** DATE: TIME: LOCATION:

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Tuesday, February 9, 2016 7:00 - 9:00 am PLEASE NOTE THE LOCATION HAS CHANGED FOR THIS DATE ONLY TO THE Lutheran Medical Center, Learning Center # 1 (2nd floor), 8300 West 38th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 (SEE MAP BELOW)*** Lieutenant Governor Joe Garcia TBD

Date: Tuesday, OCTOBER 11, 2016 Time: 7:00-9:00am

Location: Wheat Ridge Recreation Center – 4005 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Tuesday, March 8, 2016

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ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

LOCAL BUSINESS BRIEFS

Brad Wicks and Denver Farmer When asked about harvest time, Brad Wicks of Denver Farmer said, “Harvest time? I’ve been harvesting twice weekly since early spring. I’m going to keep harvesting until the weather gets too cold.” Denver Farmer began when Wicks grew tired of working to keep a perfect front lawn in a neighborhood of carefully kept front lawns, so he created high raised beds with pathways between them and began planting. Now Wicks not only has the front yard growing, but he also has more planting beds and a 24-by-20foot hydroponic greenhouse in the backyard. He also farms part of a neighbor’s yard and has a hoop house full of flourishing tomatoes at Five Fridges Farm. The former broadcaster and teacher at the Colorado Media School was so successful growing herbs, greens, lettuce, jalapeños, peas and radishes, he decided to begin selling his crops at farmers’ markets. Attending three of the Metro Denver farmers’ markets was a huge learning experience and a great success. Wicks sells both live plants and produce at the markets. It took time to learn how to price his produce and to engage in conversation with customers. Wicks explains to customers that he never washes his greens before he brings them to market. He advises customers not wash them until they are ready to serve them. This will keep them fresh longer and prevent limp and wilted greens. The hydroponic greenhouse enables plants to be grown without soil. A constant flow of water moves over the roots of plants. The greenhouse contains technology to adjust temperature, preventing it from getting too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter. With this high-tech greenhouse, fresh herbs, greens, and vegetables can be available for harvest throughout the year. Brad Wicks uses every spot he can find for growing herbs, greens, and vegetables. By adding the greenhouse, he be able to extend his harvest throughout the year. Denver Farmer is located 7290 W. 28th Ave. in Wheat Ridge. For more information, visit www. denverfarmer.com, or call them at 720-275-4964.

Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. For more information, contact Steve Art, Economic Development Manager, 303-2352806 or sart@ci.wheatridge.co.us

Lutheran Medical Center Names Andrea Burch as Chief Nursing Officer

RIBBON CUTTINGS were recently held welcoming two new businesses to the Wheat Ridge community – Walnut Ridge Family Practice, 7110 W. 44th Ave. and Metro Frame Works, 5310 W. 38th Ave. PHOTOS COURTESY THE WHEAT RIDGE BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Walnut Ridge Family Practice Now Open on 44th Avenue Walnut Ridge Family Practice is now open at 7110 W. 44th Ave. in Wheat Ridge. Focused on on Osteopathic medicine and providing care to patients of all ages, Walnut Ridge is open Monday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday 7a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.walnutridgefamilymedicine.com

Metro Frame Works Opens New Location Metro Frame Works celebrated its new location at 5310 W. 38th Ave. with a ribbon cutting on Aug. 15, with Wheat Ridge Mayor Joyce Jay on hand to cut the ribbon. To learn more about Metro Frame Works, go to www.metroframeworks.com

Teller Street Gallery Offers Afternoon Kid Art Classes Teller Street Art Gallery is now offering fall after-school art classes on Tuesdays and Thursday afternoons, as well as other programs for kids. Sign up today to receive $5 off. For more

Lutheran Medical Center has announced Andrea Burch, MS, BSN, RN, CNRN, as the new Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer. She fills the position vacated by Geri Towndrow, RN, BSN, MA, when she was promoted to Chief Nursing Officer for the SCL Health system. Burch will provide strategic direction for nursing quality and safety at Lutheran, serving as an advocate for staff and patients.

Wheat Ridge Business Award Nominees Announced The City of Wheat Ridge has announced the nominees for its best of Wheat Ridge awards. This will mark the 13th year it has conducted the program, and this year’s theme is “It’s Cool to do Business in Wheat Ridge.” The nominees for each category are: Business of the Year: Colorado Plus, Comcast of Wheat Ridge, Discount Tires, EduCyber, FirstBank of Wheat Ridge, Harriet’s Treadle Arts, Heinie’s Market, Iron Rail Tavern, Lil Nicks, Mama Sanninos, Mighty Joe’s Kitchen, Right Coast Pizza, Sprouts Farmer’s Market, Vinyl Works, Vitruvian Fitness, West 29 Restaurant and Bar, Westridge Veterinary Hospital, Wheat Ridge Poultry, and Young’s Market. Reinvestment Award: Creative Learning Center, Home Collective, Lutheran Medical Center, Morningstar Assisted Living, Pierogies Factory, and Wazee Partners. Cultural Commission Award: Clancy’s Irish Pub, Four Seasons Farmers and Artisans Market, and Blu Iron Photography. Three additional awards to be presented are the City Council’s Partnership Award, the Mayor’s Partnership Award and the Wheat Ridge Business Association Member of the Year. The winners will be announced at the annual Business Appreciation Awards Ceremony, Sept. 27 at the Wheat Ridge

Fitness Fundamentals: Squats, Lunges and TRX Learning the fundamentals of squats and lunges is important for your fitness journey. They are basic exercises that lead to more options that can develop overall strength and coordination. With squats and lunges, you will increase your core strength and improve balance. Feed Your Soul Fitness, 5500 W. 44th Ave., Denver, is offering free classes teaching the proper form for each exercise. Proper form, using the proper muscle groups, helps prevent knee, hip or back discomfort. They’ll also show the ins and outs of the straps of TRX, one of the hottest pieces of fitness equipment, which improves full body strength with an emphasis on the core. The complimentary sessions are held monthly at Feed Your Soul Fitness, and space is limited. For scheduling and other information, call 303-947-5631 or email Brandy@ FeedYourSoulFitness.com.

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CAR TALK WITH TOM Would You Ride in a Car That Drives Itself? n

By Tom Schmuke

elieve it or not, self-driving cars may not only be the wave of the future, they may become very prominent in our society very soon. Here are a few things you might want to know about the world of self-driving cars. Safety The first thing that many people want to know about self-driving cars is how safe they are. You may be surprised to hear that self-driving cars are, at least in theory, much safer than cars driven by humans. They’re still in development of course, but the reality is that computers can accept input, respond, and multitask much more quickly and efficiently than humans can, even on their best days. Cost Currently, self-driving cars are very expensive. In fact, one of these vehicles can cost as much as several hundred thousand dollars. This is out of most people’s price range, of course. The high price of one of these cars is due to the expense of the many sensors and systems that are required for safe operation. In addition to a long list of safety sensors, the cars generally use cameras, a high-quality GPS system, and software to keep everything running. However, this price is expected to come down considerably in the future Uses So what are all of these autonomous vehicles going to be used for? Of course, the thing most people think of first is human transportation. Need to go to the

store or get your kids to soccer practice? Just jump in and it’ll get you there. There are a number of other possibilities though. For example, Ridesharing companies are already partnering with autonomous car manufacturers with the intention of eliminating the need for drivers. Many companies are also considering this technology for deliveries, both on a smallscale, such as delivering your lunch, and on a large-scale, for example, tractor-trailer delivery companies. Legal aspects Unfortunately, there are not a lot of autonomous cars on the road yet. This is partially due to a lack of acceptance and trust, as well as a lack of knowledge, from the general public, but it is also because of the fact that many states have not legalized the use of these vehicles yet. On the other hand, you may be surprised to know that several states have decided to allow this new technology. A handful of states have already enacted laws that make self-driving cars legal, and many other states only have vaguely written legislature that does not allow or disallow the technology. Future What’s next with self-driving cars? According to some predictions, this technology may be commonplace by 2020 or a little after. Numerous companies are working on this, in addition to Google. Some of these companies include GM, Ford, Tesla, and Audi. Would you ride in a car that drives itself? Got a car care question? Email Tom Schmuke at tom@qualityautocare.com.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 20 – OCTOBER 17, 2016 – ngazette.com

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WEST METRO FIRE West Metro, Wheat Ridge Fire Bring Merger to Vote n

By Ronda Scholting

oters in Wheat Ridge and Edgewater will decide next month whether to support the merger between West Metro Fire Rescue and Wheat Ridge Fire. The election is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 4 and the polls will be open in three locations: Wheat Ridge Fire Station 16 at3880UphamSt.,WheatRidgeFireStation17 at 10901 W. 38th Ave., and Edgewater city offices at 5845 W. 25th Ave. The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The fire districts have been operating as one district under an intergovernmental agreement since April 1. The two questions on the Oct. 4 ballot ask residents and business owners whether they want to 1) dissolve the old Wheat Ridge district and 2) include their properties into the new district. If the questions pass, voters will see a slight tax decrease. The current mill levy for Wheat Ridge and Edgewater is 12.5 mills, while West Metro’s mill levy is 12.382 mills. The other changes have already been in place as part of the new fire district’s operations plan. In the past, the city of Wheat Ridge contracted with a private ambulance

Ronda Scholting is the Communications/Media Relations Specialist for West Metro Fire Rescue; contact her at rscholting@westmetrofire.org or 303-941-8317.

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Troy H York

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A Student Looks at Unified Garbage Collection

7615 West 38th Avenue Ste B103 Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-467-0393 www.edwardjones.com n

By Dylan Nahmiach

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AUTO INJURY? Ever feel like this?

service to provide hospital transports and emergency medical services (EMS). With the merger, the new district provides fire-based EMS services, and if needed, transports to area hospitals. Over the past few years, the two districts have been sharing resources, including a fleet maintenance facility and dispatch center. Firefighters from both Wheat Ridge and West Metro were also training together at West Metro’s Training Center. The fire chiefs from the two districts started talking about a potential merger in 2013, but made the decision to merge only after an extensive study that looked at the advantages and disadvantages of combining the departments. With the merger, West Metro Fire Rescue becomes the largest fire district in the state. The district is considered a full service, or all-hazard response agency. Firefighters are trained in technical rescue, dive and swift water rescue, hazardous material response and wildland firefighting.

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Editor’s Note: Dylan Nahmiach is a freshman enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program at Lakewood High School. This was an Honors English assignment. He received a grade of 100 percent.

Need The need is to establish a unified, singlesource, garbage collection provider. We know this service is needed because it is being discussed on social media and by local politicians. It was the topic of a community meeting, and is being proposed as a ballot question in future elections. Residents in our community will have their trash collected on the same day throughout the city, as opposed to each neighbor having their garbage out front on random days. Objective My final goal is to have everyone use the same garbage company and have their garbage collected on the same day. The measurable objective is the reduction of garbage trucks on our street per week. I want to accomplish a reduction in large trucks using up our asphalt on the streets, decrease our carbon footprint, and reduce noise pollution. Finally, I want to create an overall more efficient garbage collection system in our city. Method Step one is to survey the citizens of Wheat Ridge to find out which company they would want to be the official garbage collector of the city. Step two is to establish an official garbage collection committee

that would interview the top three selected companies to see which one offers the widest array of services for the best price. The winning company would become the official company of Wheat Ridge, but not the exclusive service provider. People generally don’t like to be told who to use, and when one company is guaranteed the business, there is no reason for them to try harder or improve their service. The idea behind this is to encourage new families moving in to use the official provider, and over time everyone will use the same company. Success Before the project begins, I will count how many trucks there are on my road in a day. As well as how many overall vendors that serve our city. Finally, I will survey the condition of the roads using city data. After the project is implemented, I will look for a reduction in number of trucks on the road, a reduced number of vendors, and a reduced need to fix our roads. I will work with the official vendor to track the growth of new customers per month. Project Future Once the city has an official garbage vendor that is not being forced on everyone, new residents will choose the official vendor, while the current residents will move towards it eventually. Garbage is a never-ending business. Households will always be producing garbage, and we need a consistent method of managing the disposal of garbage. This project is self-sustaining until we can find a way to dispose of garbage within our households.

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