EDGEWATER MAYOR Milestones From 2018 And Early 2019 Updates Page 4
FITNESS CORNER The Science Behind Food Cravings Page 7
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| SLOAN’S LAKE | WEST COLFAX | TWO CREEKS | WEST HIGHLAND January 15 – February 15, 2019 • ngazette.com • FREE
In With The New, ‘For Sale’ With The Old n By
Mike McKibbin
A
s Edgewater city officials settle into the new Civic Center building, the most recent city hall building could be under contract for sale in a few months. The city is negotiating a contract for the sale of the recently vacated municipal building at West 24th Street and Sheridan Boulevard. The building was constructed as an office furniture store in the mid-1980s and was sold to the city in 1995 to serve as the “new” city hall. At the end of last year, the building was replaced by the new $12.5 million, 55,000 square-foot Civic Center, about six blocks away at 1800 Harlan St. The Civic Center includes a 5,000-square-foot fitness center, 10,000-square-foot gymnasium, 10,000-square-foot Jefferson County Public Library, 6,000-square-foot police department, plus 6,000 square feet for administrative offices, 5,000 square feet of basement space, 3,000 square feet of public meeting, entry and atrium space, and 3,000 square feet of unfinished space for future use. Continued on page 2
WHEN FIRSTBANK BOUGHT THE STONEWALL MOTEL PROPERTY on West Colfax, they donated the sign to the Colfax Museum. “They delivered it here and everything,” says curator Jonny Barber. PHOTO BY LAURIE DUNKLEE
‘The Velvet Elvis’ Preserving Colfax History n By
“
T
Laurie Dunklee
he story of Colfax deserves to be told,” says Jonny Barber, a musician, former Elvis impersonator and curator of the Colfax Museum. “Colfax was the richest street in Denver — the grand dame — but she fell on hard times. People gave up on her, but it’s important to reclaim that history.” The Colfax Museum, opening soon at Colfax and Pierce in Pasternack’s Art Hub, is stuffed with an eclectic collection of memorabilia, including neon signs from iconic former businesses on Colfax. Sid King’s Crazy Horse Bar, an infamous strip joint on East Colfax for 35 years, lives on in its neon sign, now repaired. “I also have both mannequins that were on display above the sign,” Barber says. The neon from Freedom HarleyDavidson on West Colfax also shines proudly, as does neon touting refrigerators and color TVs from former Colfax stores. The Stonewall Motel sign sits in the courtyard, which Barber plans to turn into a performance space. “It’s great to activate this key bridge between Casa Bonita and the 40 West Arts District, especially since 2019 is Lakewood’s 50th anniversary as a city,” says Barber. Barber was collecting Colfax items in his basement for 14 years, until he was offered a space in the back room of Ed Moore Florist on East Colfax in 2017. The building was sold this year and he moved into Pasternack’s, formerly a pawn shop, only to face several shut-downs and a flood. “Eighteen inches of water ran right through our building after a crazy summer storm. I had a feeling about it before it happened, so I moved everything to the elevated room [formerly the police holding room for confiscated items].” Barber loves all things Colfax. “No matter what the storyline, there’s
always a weird turn. Colfax is where the odd, eccentric and outrageous characters fit in. Whatever it says about me, Colfax is the street where I feel most at home, where I can be myself. I say, ‘Keep it weird.’” Inside the Colfax Museum hangs a giant beer-can airplane that hung over the bar at The Hangar Bar on East Colfax. “The Hangar Bar shut its doors last summer, just short of its 80th birthday,” said Barber. The collection also includes organs from Music City, as well as ephemera like
matchbooks, posters and photos from various venues. Among the mementos are a set of salt-and-pepper pigs from Eddie Bohn’s Pig ‘n’ Whistle restaurant on West Colfax; and a metal pin with two dangling skates from Mammoth Gardens’ days as a skating rink. In the “way back” department is a 150-million-year-old stegosaurus footprint, “quarried when they put the original Highway 40 through,” Barber says. Born in San Francisco, Barber got a taste for unusual characters early on. “My mom took banjo lessons from Jerry
Garcia, before he was Jerry Garcia.” At age 8 he started playing guitar; it was 1977, the year Elvis Presley died. Barber attended school in Salt Lake City and Seattle, where he found himself in the middle of the grunge music scene. “We opened for Nirvana. But I didn’t fit in with grunge — too depressing.” Barber brought his music and songwriting talents to Denver in 1995. Because making a living was “brutal,” he started Continued on page 2
NEIGHBORHOOD ARTS
Celebrate The New Year In The Art District n By
Nancy Hahn
P
irate Gallery, 7130 W. Colfax, has two stunning shows coming up. From Jan. 18 through Feb. 3 works by Justin Beard and Robyn Frances will be on exhibit. Beard’s work challenges you to examine your emotions. Frances describes her work as “female, sexy, divine, uncomfortable.” Check the show out, before you bring small children. Both these artists show the confrontation and playful combination of contemporary art. From Feb. 8 through 24, Pirate will feature Kelly Brewer’s stunning paintings, as well as, work by the CU Denver Sculpture Club. The CU Denver Sculpture Club has 121 members, so sculpture of any style and material might be displayed. Visit and enjoy Pirate’s variety of work. The 40 West Arts Gallery, 1560 Teller St., will hold an opening reception for its Members Exhibition on Feb. 1. The reception, from 5 to 9 p.m., will include wine or beer and light snacks. 40 West Arts Gallery has over 100 members, so their Member Showcase has a variety of art in a variety of styles. It’s First Friday so most shops are open late! Edge Gallery, 7001 W. Colfax, will hold their annual juried exhibition of their artists’ work beginning with an Opening Reception Continued on page 8
THE 40 WEST ARTS GALLERY, 1560 TELLER ST., will hold an opening reception for its Members Exhibition on Feb. 1. The reception, from 5 to 9 p.m., will include wine or beer and light snacks. IMAGE COURTESY 40 WEST ARTS DISTRICT
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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – ngazette.com
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THE COLFAX MUSEUM’S NEON COLLECTION INCLUDES the sign from Freedom Harley-Davidson, formerly at 8000 West Colfax. PHOTO BY LAURIE DUNKLEE
Colfax Museum Continued from page 1
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impersonating Elvis in 2004. “It started as a joke. I’d do random Elvis sightings on the 16th St. Mall and at Burger King.” “The Velvet Elvis” became a success as he sang all over the country, from Red Rocks to Graceland. In 2011, The Velvet Elvis was pronounced dead of a heart attack en route to Rose Medical Center; but he was sighted in 2013 and 2014 (at a Burger King on Colfax). “I finally had to turn off my Elvis-ness,” Barber said. Since opening the Colfax Museum, Barber is gaining recognition for preserving the history of Colfax. In 2017 he received the Heart and Soul Character of Colfax Award from the Colfax Avenue Business Improvement District; and the Colfax Museum was named Westword’s Best New Museum. Recently he was made an honorary member of the Schuyler Colfax Society. Colfax Avenue is part of Highway 40, once a transcontinental route that stretched from Atlantic City, N.J., all the way to San Francisco. “All the tourists passed through Colorado on Highway 40,” Barber said. “It was like a little Las Vegas, with its elaborate neon signs enticing travelers to restaurants,
Edgewater Civic Continued from page 1
The city sold properties at West 25th and Gray — which included previous city hall, fire department and library buildings — in August. The owners of the 25th and Gray property, CSI-Edgewater, LLC, also own corner properties to the west and south. The four parcels are to be developed as Edgewater Town Square, a commercial project. City Manager H.J. Stalf said shortly after the start of this year that a contract for the sale of the West 24th and Sheridan building might be finalized and plans presented to the city planning and zoning commission in February or March. The anticipated use
entertainment and motels.” He said Colfax runs 53 miles, from Table Mountain in Golden to the eastern plains. “I don’t know whether it’s the longest street in America, but it’s the longest main, commercial street.” Colfax’s heyday as a tourist attraction ended when traffic was diverted onto the new Interstate 70 in the late 1960s and 1970s. “The Colfax strip went to hookers, drug dealers and hippies. In the 1980s it was like a ghost town.” Barber hopes to illustrate the extremes to be found on Colfax. “We had the Clan here, but also Charlie Burrell, the first African-American to perform in a symphony orchestra, who played the Playboy Bar on Colfax. Hattie McDaniel, the first African-American to win an Academy Award, attended East High School.” Legendary guitarist Chet Atkins cut his first demo at Rockley Music on West Colfax. To raise money for the museum, Barber plans to start the Root 40 Music Festival in the courtyard this summer. “The Velvet Elvis might return, finances being what they are,” he said. The Colfax Museum is at 6851 W. Colfax Ave. Donations of money and memorabilia are welcome. For more information see thecolfaxmuseum.org or call 303-5255840. For more about Jonny Barber see jonnybarber.com.
of the building is a restaurant, but details remain to be worked out, according to a city email newsletter. The use and sale could be finalized this summer. Meanwhile, city council held their last meeting at the West 24th and Sheridan building on Nov. 1 and their first meeting in the Civic Center council chambers on Dec. 6. Starting Jan. 15, council meetings will be held on Tuesday nights rather than Thursday nights. Mayor Linda Keegan said the change was made “very simply” because Tuesday nights were felt to be more convenient for council members, “as well as allowing the council to have all weekend to review our upcoming packets, too,” Keegan wrote in an email. Council meetings will continue to begin at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesdays of each month and when needed.
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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – ngazette.com
EDGEWATER MAYOR
What’s Happening in the WRBA
Milestones From 2018 And Early 2019 Updates of national experts who help plan streets using a “people first” approach. To develop 018 was a groundbreaking year for a mobility plan, we need input on what does Edgewater. In November, the city and doesn’t work for us. Mobility choices opened its new Civic Center at 1800 Harlan, require all of us to be informed, share giving the community a new library, ideas and confirm community priorities. For more information and the police department, city offices, schedule of community events, recreation facility and gym. The please call 720-763-3012 or property previously housing email dmaples@edgewaterco. the fire department, some city com. police offices, the library and Later this year the city recreation center was sold to will begin an update of the CSI-Edgewater, LLC. That entity Comprehensive Plan. Make also owns the properties across sure you are signed up to the street (Sloans and several receive notifications from the storefronts) are developing and Town Cryer about this as well tying in the area into a mostly as other city information. You retail, family friendly “Town Laura Keegan can sign up for this service at Center” design. The old police www.edgewaterco.com. The City station, which was already owned by the same company, is figuring into this Bulletin, also available on our city site and at the city offices, has much city news and is wonderful project. We also sold the property at 20th and published several times a season. Depew, vacant since 2002. It’s currently Make sure you come by the new Civic under development by LCP Development. Center. There is something there for If you haven’t been by lately, the work for everyone. Start your new year off with a this retail attraction is well under way. It’s a close-to-home work out and take advantage of the many programs Edgewater is truly amazing and innovative project! The Gold Crown Clubhouse afterschool offering. You can check the city website for facility at 2501 Chase has been under way programs, hours of operation and fees. If for a year. This facility engages youth with you haven’t made it there yet, stop by and hands-on education and development, check out books and movies at the new encouraging and teaching students 10,000-square-foot public library. to engage in numerous high-tech and Council meets on the first and/or third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Over the recreational programs. The last property to mention is the now- next months, in addition to the above plans, vacant city building at 2401 Sheridan. The council will be looking at sustainability city is currently accepting development measures and tobacco law updates. Edgewater mayor Laura Keegan can proposals. Coming in this month is an Edgewater be reached at 303-232-0745 (landline) or mobility study. The city has hired a team lkeegan@edgewaterco.com.
n By
Laura Keegan
2 Our 1st Breakfast Meeting of 2019 was fun, informational, and a great chance to reconnect with our Members. Thanks to our Sponsor Ease Your Panes Window Cleaning, our Spotlight Speakers Waddell & Reed Financial Inc and Paramount Wellness, and Joni Inman as our awesome Speaker!
FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP BREAKFAST
Please register for this meeting before 5pm on Thursday, February 7
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DATE: Tuesday, February 12, 2019 TIME: 7:00am-9:00am LOCATION: The Vista at Applewood Golf Course, 14001 W. 32nd Ave. 303-278-6637 **Please note change in location for this meeting** COST: $15 for WRBA Members and their guests, $18 for Non-members SPEAKER: Sherry Ray, Motivational Speaker TOPIC: “Conflict-An Opportunity for Growth” MEETING SPONSOR: Erika Schultz, Fairmount Wellness MEMBER BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Ron Benson, Keller Williams Realty – The MacDonald Group
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EDGEWATER CITY COUNCIL Don Seyfer • 303-422-5261 4501 Harlan St. • seyferauto.com
Sue Ball • 303-421-7311 sueball.com
Discover What The New Civic Center Offers to watch the building become a reality. Since the building opened, I’ve made it in most days, to visit the library and their amazing n November 2016, Edgewater voters staff, use the fitness center or participate approved financing (with no increase in meetings. Every day more community in taxes) for a new Civic Center at 1800 members are discovering all the Edgewater Harlan St. Over 81 percent of voters that Civic Center has to offer. If you haven’t been year supported the project. Following there yet, check it out! extensive community meetings and design Visit the new recreation facilities and work, Edgewater broke ground on Sept. 23, open gym times! There are annual 2017, and on Nov. 18, 2018, adult, senior and youth passes and we opened the doors of this also drop-in and 15-punch passes beautiful new facility. available, with Jeffco resident and The 55,000-square-foot non-resident rates. Through Jan. Civic Center gives Edgewater 31 the City of Edgewater Fitness Police a first-class facility that Center is offering FREE fitness our officers have needed for classes. Stop into the fitness years. City administrative staff center or look at a schedule on has efficient city hall space, www.playedgewater.com to see and we finally have a true when classes are offered. With recreation center. The building the free classes, we ask that also incorporates expansion participants fill out a waiver and Steve Conklin space as needs change. a small questionnaire about the The relocated Jeffco Public class and what they would like to see in your Library Edgewater branch is six times the size new Edgewater Fitness Center. of the prior location with greatly expanded We are starting work on a long-desired offerings. Donna Walker, Executive Mobility Plan for Edgewater, to help our Director of the Jeffco Public Library says streets and sidewalks be safer. The Mobility “We are seeing more visitors, more use of Plan will support the city’s commitment to materials, more use of computers, and more promoting health and wellness by providing people at our programs,” adding “we love a safe and accommodating bicycle and our partnership with the city of Edgewater.” pedestrian infrastructure. Among the topics Thanks to the Library staff for being to be addressed are traffic calming to slow so positive about Edgewater and the new ever-faster traffic, safe routes to school and facility! accessibility for the aging population. For City Manager H.J. Stalf and Deputy City more information on the creation of the Manager Dan Maples did incredible work Edgewater Mobility Plan go to edgewaterco. planning and overseeing this major project com. and coordinating with our many partners Contact Edgewater Mayor Pro Tem and deserve our thanks. Steve Conklin at sconklin@edgewaterco. I walked the construction site many com or 303-909-0479. times over the past year and it was exciting n By
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ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE
n By
J
EDGEWATER COLLECTIVE
WEST METRO FIRE
Jefferson Alumni Night: Honoring State Champions
West Metro 2018: Year Of Growth And Innovation
Joel Newton
oin the Jefferson Booster Club and fellow Jefferson alumni for Alumni Night on Jan. 18! Dinner will be served in the cafeteria for alumni and community members from 6 to 7 p.m. Sandwiches from Jimmy Johns, dessert and drinks will be served and the cost per person is $10. The proceeds from the dinner will go the Jefferson Booster Club. Stay around for the boys basketball team as they face off against Bruce Randolph at 7 p.m. The Booster Club will be honoring
the state championship basketball (1957 and 1959), baseball (1968) and cross country (1959) teams during halftime of the basketball game. RSVP for the dinner at jeffersonsaints. org. The admission fees for the basketball game are: adults, $6; seniors (age 55 and older), $4; Jeffco high school students who have purchased an activity sticker, free; K-12 students without an activity sticker, $4; and children under 6, free. Contact Edgewater Collective Executive Director Joel Newton at 303-7480631.
n By
I
Ronda Scholting
n 2018, our firefighters answered nearly 35,000 calls – the most we’ve ever had in one year. As our fire district continued to grow and change, West Metro Fire Rescue looked for innovative ways to serve, implementing a number of new programs, with the goal of improving the quality of life in the district. In March 2018, West Metro introduced the innovative LUCAS device. The LUCAS is a chest compression system that helps our firefighter/paramedics and EMTs deliver continuous, high quality CPR to cardiac patients. The devices were placed on a number of ambulances, and within just two months, the LUCAS was key to saving the life of a husband and father who suffered cardiac arrest while on a Boy Scout camping trip. By the end of the year, the LUCAS assisted our crews with treating several patients who would not have survived without the device. In May, West Metro launched our advanced resource medic – or ARM car. It’s a program that brings medical care to the patient, avoiding a trip to the emergency room and helping combat the high cost of health care. Through a public-private partnership with Dispatch Health, the ARM car goes where the patient is, diagnosing the illness or injury and treating on site – at home, or at work. Because West Metro is an all hazard fire agency, our firefighters have to be ready for
5
anything, whether it’s a house fire, a rope rescue or a swift water rescue. We have several special teams, and in 2018 not only did we respond to special team calls within our own district, we also sent firefighters to help out on wildfires across the country and to help out during a hurricane. West Metro is the host agency for Colorado Task Force One, one of 28 Federal Emergency Management, or FEMA, urban search and rescue teams. In September, the team was sent to North Carolina to help in search and rescue and recovery from Hurricane Florence. Team members come from dozens of fire and rescue agencies across Colorado. We believe in dedication to service and in 2018, West Metro was recognized with an ISO Class One rating – the highest level awarded nationally. Fire agencies are measured by their ability to protect the homes and property of residents and businesses. The number one rating means lower insurance premiums, and potentially millions of dollars in savings for the people we serve. 2018 was certainly a year of innovation for West Metro. And, as we move forward, we will continue to look for opportunities to improve on the high level of service that our residents and business owners have come to expect. We truly believe in “Whatever it takes to serve.” Ronda Scholting is the West Metro Fire Rescue Communications/Media Relations Specialist.
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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – ngazette.com
SCHOOL VISITOR PASS Resolutions Come In All Forms n By
Guy Nahmiach
T
hings you want, things you wish for … hope to be. Improving, reducing and, perhaps, changing all together. New year’s resolutions. The Wheat Ridge Recreation Center welcomes a huge number of “get fitter,” “lose weight” and “gain muscle” crowds in the first couple of months of the year. It causes our annual “expansion/addition” conversation. Parents make all kinds of promises to each other and their children. But life gets in the way sometimes and while I’m not saying it’s impossible to change, Robert Plant sings about the “two paths you can go by, but there’s still time to change the road you’re on.” When it comes to this special breed of humans whom we call educators, they clearly sacrifice a life of wealth for small wages but huge gains in emotional currency. Resolutions take on a whole new meaning. I asked a few of them what they had in mind for a new year’s resolution, what it is that they hoped for in this new year. I knew I wasn’t going to get anything “normal” but I certainly didn’t expect this:
Scott Allensworth (Community Superintendent)
I hope for the Wheat Ridge area students to matriculate through the articulation area as productive positive citizens and we educate them to be successful contributing members of our community. I also hope we provide the skills and relationships for students to live their life goals.
EDGEWATER AT 25TH & SHERIDAN
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Brenda Carlson (Community Superintendent)
Students involved/empowered. By giving students more control over their assignments and activities, they will hopefully take ownership of their education and use their talents and interests in a positive way. Embrace the Jeffco Generations.
Karen Quanbeck (Chief of Schools – Elementary)
My resolution is to push myself to consider the “user perspective” in any design process or work at a systems level. For example, if we are designing something for teachers, we need to consider the teacher needs and perspective. Innovation only works when it meets the needs of the user and helps us do something
better. Shiny, new, creative is fun. Shiny, new, creative and it creates a better experience or remedies a pain point is fun and sustainable.
Beverly Haynie (Prospect Valley Principal)
I am resolved to do whatever I can to make a positive lasting impact on someone in my school every day – to offer kindness, spread acceptance, cultivate joy, encourage and empower.
Jeena Templeton (The Manning School Principal)
My New Year’s resolution is to learn and grow with and from my school community and to create systems of experiences for staff and students to learn and grow together. Our priority as a staff this year has been to learn from one another, and we have become an even closer family of learners that challenge each other’s thinking, hold one another accountable, take calculated risks, reflect on our practices; create, design and innovate together; and grow from our collective wisdom. I am resolute in my conviction to see that work culminate in Manning becoming a responsive, efficient and sustainable learning organization committed to striving and reaching to be the best possible stewards of our students’ tremendous potential.
TJ McManus (Stevens Elementary Principal)
My resolution for this year is to transition from an environment where we promised and delivered a meaningful and relevant curriculum to a place where these are now expected and is the norm here at Stevens. A place where every student is excited about coming to school and expects to learn something that will change their lives. Clearly these community superheroes are wired differently. Personally, I woke up on January 1st with one thing in mind: ’19 is the year I finally buy myself a scooter. But then we can all be thrilled that the fate of a generation’s education doesn’t rest on my shoulders. Of course, I’m kidding, but perhaps, we can each include in our own resolutions to thank an educator a few more times this year. Certainly a currency that that doesn’t get used enough. Happy New Year! Contact Guy Nahmiach at Guy@NostalgicHomes.Com or 303-999-5789.
ASK THE SUPER What Non-Funding Issues Will We Hear About In 2019? information are still certainly important, it Jason E. Glass, Ed.D. is what we do with the basic knowledge and Now that the funding bond was approved facts that matters much more. by voters, how do we move the conversation Bringing about this change in how into other areas that need attention? In the students experience learning will be our last few months most of your answers have singular focus for years to come. Imagine revolved around this important issue. But if we could create a school system that today in your outlook for 2019, what are graduated thousands of Jeffco students who you hopeful for? What non-funding issues were really ready to compete and thrive in a can we expect to hear and read about? global economy – this must be our goal! We’ve worked to set the “north star” As both superintendent for Jeffco Public Schools of our public schools and a on changing the student parent of Jeffco students, I experience in learning so that am incredibly passionate and we create authentic (real, excited about this work. When and connected to the world), it comes to where we must put engaging (meaningful to the our attention, this is the “main student and work that draws thing” and we intend to make them in), and create the breakthroughs on authentic and opportunity for students to engaging learning experiences for practice important real-world students that really prepare them skills. for the future. On that last point, we call Thank you. these “Generations Skills,” Jason E. Glass, Ed.D. Jason E. Glass, Ed.D., after our strategic visioning is the Superintendent & Chief Learner of document “Jeffco Generations.” They Jeffco Public Schools; www.jeffcopublicinclude things such as creativity, complex schools.org. problem solving, collaboration, effective If you have a question for our superinwritten and oral communication, leadership, tendent please submit it to Guy@Nostalgiand adapting to changing conditions. cHomes.com or call it in to 303-999-5789. While the basics and foundational factual n By
ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE
ASK THE EXPERT
FITNESS CORNER
2019 Refinance Opportunities!
The Science Behind Food Cravings
n By
Wanda Norge
• Divorce buyouts
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nterest rates have improved from earlier highs this year, so there is still time to improve your long-term loan situation if you act quickly!
Just Closed On New Construction?
2019 Loan Limit Increases
Adjustable Rate Loan Coming Due?
Refinance to secure a lower interest rate than what the builder offered when you closed!
ARM loans started between 2008-2011 The Federal Housing Finance Agency are coming due! Let’s see if the announced the maximum next adjustment makes sense to loan limits for Fannie Mae keep or if refinancing is more and Freddie Mac conventional beneficial. loans is once again increasing This could be a great effective Jan. 1, 2019. The new time to switch into the All-Inconforming base loan limit One Loan Interest Savings Loan in Colorado counties will be that combines the mortgage increasing to $484,350 for a oneand checking account into one. unit property. However, most It reduces principal first, by all Denver metro counties have “sweeping” regular deposits increased limits to $561,200. against the balance, paying This includes Adams, Arapahoe, Wanda Norge off the mortgage in half the Broomfield, Clear Creek, Denver, time compared to traditional Douglas, Elbert, Gilpin, Jefferson mortgages, and saving interest over the and Park. Boulder is $626,750. Mountain life of the loan. Money normally sent to a resort counties have even higher limits. third party to pay the mortgage stays in the Refinance Jumbos Or 1st/2nd Combos account! A line of credit is then available for 30 years without requiring a refinance. Now With Conventional Rates! available on investment properties! Use our specialty loan that allows up to $726,525 (higher than the limits above!) to Out-Of-The-Box Financing refinance your jumbo loan or first / second Some of our new loans options include: combined loan amounts that now fit into • Super Jumbo loans to $15 million! this conventional loan category. It could • Foreign National loans be beneficial to combine into one loan – • No limits on number of properties potentially saving you interest on the higherowned rate second loan or switching into a 30-year • VRBO or Air B&B income to qualify loan now instead of that adjustable jumbo. • No waiting after a bankruptcy or foreclosure Cash Out Solutions! • Use bank statement deposits or assets • Get cash for home improvements using accounts to qualify a fixed-rate loan instead of a variable line of • Use real estate equity calculations to credit qualify • Pay off credit card or student loan Act now to take advantage of these debt. Don’t continue to carry double-digit opportunities! interest rate balances every month when you Wanda Norge is a Mortgage Consulcan collapse that into a low-rate mortgage, tant, Certified Divorce Lending Professional paying less interest and reducing your (CDLP) with Equilane Lending, LLC (NMLS: monthly debt. 387869), 15 years experience. Contact her • Get a low-rate loan from the primary at 303-419-6568, loans@wandanorge.com, home to buy that investment property with www.wandanorge.com. NMLS:280102, cash. MB:100018754 • Get rid of mortgage insurance
Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree, Can You Be Recycled? n By
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Meghan Godby
n 2017, the City of Wheat Ridge turned 1,500 real Christmas trees into mulch. The mulch, which was used throughout city parks, was also available to local residents for use in their own gardens and landscaping. But what about artificial Christmas trees? I spoke with Rachel Nathan, Director of SustainAbility, a local recycling organization that serves the greater metro area. She explained that artificial trees can’t be recycled. The reason is twofold, but cross contamination is the biggest contributing factor. Artificial Christmas trees are made up of many different materials, including paper (which makes up those convincing artificial pine needles) and wire. But that’s not the only problem. “Plastics recycling in the United States is very lacking. A lot of low-grade plastics used to go to China. Now that China has cut us off [...], the U.S. is not allowed to send the majority of low-grade plastics out any longer.” This is all part of the National Sword Initiative, a recently implemented policy in China that bans 24 types of solid waste, including the types of plastics that Nathan mentioned. So, what can you do? Perhaps the most obvious suggestion is to donate your unwanted tree to a thrift store or local charity. After all, artificial trees are designed to last many years, not to be replaced from season to season.
Thankfully, not all is lost – you can still recycle your Christmas lights locally. SustainAbility accepts all types of lights, as long as large (golf-ball size) bulbs are removed. Nathan explained that the lights, which contain copper wiring, are sent out to “metal smelters in the Denver area.” These facilities melt down the lights, which are then converted into copper wiring. She goes on to say that recycling metal is extremely important. “It’s the easiest thing to recycle,” she explains, “and can be recycled over and over again. There is no end life.” This is in sharp contrast to paper, which can only be recycled about six times before it “turns into sludge.” Yet although paper cannot be recycled indefinitely, it’s still important to extend its longevity as long as we can. After all, trees and lights aren’t the only waste leftover after a holiday season. “We try to educate [the public] that wrapping paper is recyclable,” Nathan shared. “Most people think it’s not. Shiny paper is not recyclable because of the foil, but matte, regular paper, that can be put in recycling.” The holiday season places a strong emphasis on consuming, and even wellintentioned traditions can generate a lot of waste. As consumers, it’s our responsibility to ensure that we properly dispose of the things we can, and try to find a home for the things we cannot. Because after all, the season of giving back should include taking care of our planet, too.
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into our bloodstream. Opioids bind to receptors in our brains and give us feelings ou’re driving when it happens: you of pleasure. Like any satisfying experience, start salivating thinking about that we are biologically wired to want it again. bacon mac and cheese from your favorite Cravings are so universal that in a study conducted through Tufts University, 91 restaurant. Or maybe all you percent of participants reported want is a huge bowl of Rocky having food cravings, and 94 Road ice cream waiting for you percent of the study participants at home. reported cravings after six Cravings, defined as an months of dieting. This tells us intense desire to eat a specific that food cravings are not only a food, are something almost very normal human condition, everyone will experience at some but that dieting and restrictive point. But where does the desire eating can increase cravings as for rich, calorie-dense foods well. Just as telling yourself you come from? can’t have something makes Science points to several you want it even more, dieting answers, starting with infancy. Karlee Golightly increases cravings for “offInnate preferences are cultivated limits” foods. In fact, studies in the womb or during breastfeeding, as hints of a mother's diet can pass into on mood have found that emotional state amniotic fluid and seep into her breast normally has a greater impact on cravings milk, which exposes the infant to different than hunger. flavors. Thus, the variety of a mother’s diet So when you fight against cravings, can predict her child’s palate and potentially you’re fighting against your biology. Rather increase the likelihood of the child being than ignore them, be curious! Explore your mental state for possible triggers for open to new foods. Cravings can also be attributed to basic cravings, and take a moment to pause and biological wiring, similar to hunger cues. decide what action feels most nourishing When we experience hunger, a cascade of and satisfying. Perhaps honoring yourself hormones and physical symptoms manifest looks like eating a portion of the food while (i.e. grumbling stomach) to notify the brain slowly savoring each flavor and texture, or that more energy is needed. However, perhaps it looks like engaging in another cravings are different than hunger because activity that doesn’t involve food. You may they satisfy a mental cue rather than discover that by creating a pause and diving physical signs of hunger. Typically, foods deeper into your craving that it wasn’t as high in fat and calories are the objects of powerful as you thought. affection when a craving hits, but what Karlee Golightly is a Registered Dietimakes these foods more appealing? The tian and Yoga Teacher at Feed Your Soul answer lies in the brain. Fatty, calorie- Fitness; contact her at info@feedyoursouldense foods release chemicals called opioids fitness.com. n By
Karlee Golightly, RD, RYT
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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – ngazette.com
Neighborhood Arts Continued from page 1
on Feb. 8. The exhibition will continue through Feb. 24. Adam Gildar, the owner/ director of Gildar Gallery in Denver will be the juror for the exhibition. The Gildar Gallery, a stunning showplace on Broadway, showcases emerging contemporary artists. On Feb. 24, a reception at Edge will be held so artists can meet Gildar. An announcement of the winner of the Juror’s Choice Award will be made and the prize presented. Lakewood Arts, 7001 W. Colfax, in Lamar Plaza, just west of Casa Bonita, provides exhibit space for each of its member artists. Many classes and workshops are, also, available for Art District visitors who would like to build their own art skills. Check them out and have some fun creating your art! On the first Sunday of every month from 3 to 5 p.m., a still life workshop is offered. There will be an arrangement provided or you can bring your own props. On the third Thursday of every month from 3 to 5 p.m., Lakewood Arts offers a figure drawing workshop. Timed poses are offered, both short and long. A drawing lesson and additional instruction are included. Registration forms for classes are online at lakewoodarts.org or call 303-980-0625. Every Friday from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. an open studio is available. Bring your work and ideas. Enjoy some time working and visiting with others who enjoy art. • • •
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Benchmark Theatre is excited to kick off this regional premier by Will Eno and directed by Rachel Rogers. “Is it now? I thought I had more time.” A man explores the journeys that everyone takes to eventually get to the same place, as he spends the remainder of his dwindling days celebrating his life and experiences with others. In the process, he shares what is worth treasuring and opens a door to letting go in this funny and moving story.
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First Friday at 40 West Arts, Feb. 1 Join 40 West Arts District for a First Friday celebration with art, music, demos, food and drink, and more. In February 40 West Gallery will host its first 2019 Member Showcase exhibit. This show is not to be missed, with over 30 member artists showing their best works, on display to view or buy. All other district galleries will be open to the public and First Friday is always a great way to celebrate creativity, local businesses, local artists and the Lakewood West Colfax corridor. Please note, our district First Friday hours have changed in 2019 to 6 to 9 p.m.
Learn more at www.40westarts.org.
‘Wakey Wakey’ at Benchmark Theatre
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ADRIENNE DELOE, mixed media
No Credit Given For Artwork It was brought to my attention that my artwork was used in a story published by you in the Dec. 17, 2018 to Jan. 14, 2019, issue of the Neighborhood Gazette. While I appreciate you writing about my work and my gallery, I did not give permission to use an image of my work. The greater issue here is that my name was not used in the story or in the photo caption. I was given no credit as the artist of my work. This is unacceptable. You must always give credit to the artist if you are going to use images of their work. Adrienne DeLoe, Winter Garden Studios
REACH UP TO 25,000 READERS MONTHLY! Call Tim Berland 303-995-2806 tim@ngazette.com
ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE
NEIGHBORHOOD THEATER
GALLERY SPOTLIGHT
FORMER DEAD KENNEDY’S FRONTMAN JELLO BIAFRA will make a personal appearance to present Jello Biafra’s Incredibly Strange Theater: “The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T” and “Two Thousand Maniacs” at the Alamo Drafthouse Denver, Jan. 19 at 7:30 p.m. PHOTO COURTESY ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE
Silent, Strange And Comic Films n By
Elisabeth Monaghan
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n addition to bringing its audience the latest box office hits, the Alamo Drafthouse Denver has on its schedule a number of classic and rare films. On Jan. 19, Jello Biafra will make a personal appearance to present Jello Biafra’s Incredibly Strange Theater: “The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T” and “Two Thousand Maniacs” (7:30 p.m.). On Jan. 20, the Denver Silent Film Festival presentation will be “The Blot,” a film from 1921, with a live score by Niki Tredinnick of The Dollhouse Thieves (6 p.m.). If you haven’t seen “The Big Lebowski” starring Jeff Bridges, the movie party celebrating this 1998 Cohen Brothers film is the perfect opportunity to see why “The Dude” and his philosophies continue to gain fans 21 years after the film was released (Jan. 21 and Jan. 24, 7 p.m.). If you’re a fan of mystery movies, check out “Devil in a Blue Dress” (Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m.). The film from 1995 helped establish
Denzel Washington as one of Hollywood’s top leading men. The Film/Still series returns in February with “The Price of Everything,” a 2018 documentary from director Nathaniel Kahn, that is “a deep dive into the secretive and often money-driven world of contemporary art (Feb. 8, 9 p.m.). The Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design will present “Amelie,” a French film that was originally released in 2001 (Feb. 13, 7 p.m.). For tickets or more information, visit www.drafthouse.com/denver.
‘Wakey, Wakey’ At Benchmark Through Feb. 16 Benchmark Theatre presents the regional premiere of Will Eno’s “Wakey Wakey,” which runs through Feb. 16. (See Arts column, page 8.) In March, Benchmark will present another regional premiere, “1984” by George Orwell, adapted by Robert Icke and Duncan Macmillan.
Debbie Karuzas at Gallery of Everything The Gallery of Everything will spotlight the art of Debbie Karuzas with a meet and greet with the artist, Friday, Feb. 1, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., at 6719 W. Colfax, where “Just Twistin’ Trees” will be on exhibit. A Colorado native, Karuzas was born and raised in the Lakewood/Edgewater area. She has been working at her art of wire twisted trees for the past 30+ years. She started in the early 1980s while sharing her passion with young children, teaching and enjoying their creativity. She is very excited to get back into working on her art. She uses twigs, sticks, leaves, and pods to create fairy folks, and other creations. She brings her heart into every twisted tree soul, and everything she creates. Stop in and see the artwork of over 48 local artists at Gallery of Everything, 6719 W. Colfax, open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday through Sunday.
Have a news tip, happening or story idea? Send it to editor@ngazette.com
For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.benchmarktheatre.com.
40 West Arts - Where Art Means Business! 40 West Arts is a state-certified creative district, a destination to explore and discover its unique culture (both old and new). But, it’s also a place where the business of creativity happens! From the more than 120 creative enterprises located in or near the district to the creative pulse emanating from the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design in the heart of the district, 40 West Arts is a creative destination where painters, sculptors, glassblowers, woodworkers, metalworkers, musicians, actors, motion artists, and makers of all kinds gather to connect, collaborate, and celebrate creativity!
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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – ngazette.com
WHAT’S HAPPENING Edgewater Parks And Recreation Open For Youth Activities In New Civic Center Youth sports registration for Edgewater Parks and Recreations is now up and running. Youth Basketball will start at the new Civic Center starting Feb. 13. Age groups are 5-6, 7-9, and 10-12 years old. This league will run as an eight-week season, with practices held on Wednesday nights and games on Saturdays. Register on the website. Edgewater will also have a Start Smart Basketball program for Kids 3-5 years old, starting on March 2. One parent or guardian must be present for the Start Smart program. Register on the website. For open gym at the new fitness center, drop-in rates for youth are $2; a 15-punch pass is $25.50, and annual rate is $100 for Jeffco residents, or $120 for nonresidents. For more information, visit www. playedgewater.com or call 720-763-3011.
Art Supply Sale, Figure Drawing Workshops At Lakewood Arts Gallery The Lakewood Arts Gallery's new and near-new art supply sale will be held Jan. 27 through Feb. 22 at the 6731 W. Colfax gallery in Lakewood. Art books, paints, frames, craft supplies and all sorts of treasures can be purchased for a fraction of their original cost. The sale relies on donations from the community, so people with art supplies they longer need are asked to donate them to the gallery anytime between Jan. 26 and Feb.
15, during gallery hours, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. New gallery member Robyn CochranRagland will offer figure drawing and still life drawing workshops, an exciting opportunity to work from clothed or costumed models while receiving drawing instruction. Her work can be found on her website: cochranragland.com. For more information, including a full list of class offerings, or to sign up for classes, go to lakewoodarts.org or call 303-980-0625.
Jefferson County Public Health Celebrates Its 60th Anniversary Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is celebrating its 60th Anniversary of service to the people of Jefferson County in 2019. “While we began as one of the members of Tri-County Health Department in 1948, we became the Jefferson County health department in 1959, focusing the work of our vigilant public health workforce on the residents of this county. It was a very different time for public health,” said Dr. Mark B. Johnson, MD, Executive Director of JCPH. “Seatbelts were optional in cars and cigarettes had no warning labels. JCPH has worked with the community through those public health milestones and more, and we look forward to continuing to help create the healthiest community possible.” Jefferson County Public Health began with a staff of only 24 employees and had only one location at the old courthouse in Golden. Now, JCPH’s 188 employees span across five locations throughout the county: Lakewood, Golden, Arvada, Wheat Ridge and Littleton. To celebrate its 60th anniversary, JCPH will be sharing stories from its workforce
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and its history throughout the year; follow on Facebook @jeffcopublichealth and on Twitter and Instagram @jeffcoph to see updates. To learn more about JCPH and its services, visit jeffco.us/public-health.
Lakehouse Sales Center Moves Down The Street The sales center for the underconstruction Lakehouse development moved to a new location just after the new year: 1565 Raleigh St., #108, just down the street next door to Tap & Burger Sloan’s Lake. Located south of Sloan’s Lake on the corner of 17th Avenue and Raleigh Street, the new mixed-use community offers 196 condominium and rowhome residences. Condominiums range in size from approximately 704 to 3,357 square feet, with one-, two- and three-bedroom options. Current prices range from the low $500,000s to $3.3 million. The two- and three-bedroom rowhomes range in size from 1,578 square feet to 2,230 square feet and are priced from $880,000 to $1,125,000. The previous sales office was located on-site in a temporary building at 4202 W. 17th Ave. Hours are unchanged, Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. through 5 p.m., or by appointment. The telephone remains 303-974-HOME. Street parking is available and there is a free public garage right around the corner at Raleigh and Conejos. Lakehouse, according to its developers, is Colorado’s first residential community uniquely designed from the inside out to promote healthy living. For more information, visit Lakehouse17.com.
Homelessness In Colorado Down Modestly In 2018 Local communities throughout Colorado report homelessness declined modestly in 2018, according to the latest national estimate by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). HUD’s 2018 Annual Homeless Assessment Report to Congress found that 10,857 Coloradans experienced homelessness on a single night
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in 2018, a decrease of .8 percent since last year. Meanwhile, homelessness among veterans fell .46 percent and homelessness experienced by families with children declined .3 percent statewide since 2017. The estimate is based on a single night in January of last year, and does not reflect changes since. Although additional local information is available from HUD, as the Neighborhood Gazette went to press, it (as well as the annual report) was not available on HUD’s website (www.hud.gov) due to the federal government partial shutdown. As in previous years, there is significant local variation in the data reported from different parts of the country, per a Dec. 17 HUD press release. Thirty-one states and the District of Columbia reported decreases in homelessness between 2017 and 2018 while 19 states reported increases in the number of persons experiencing homelessness. For example, the City and County of Los Angeles reported a 4.7 percent decrease in overall homelessness since 2017, primarily as a result of intensive street outreach and increased production of supportive housing. Meanwhile, New York City reported a 2.8 increase, principally among families in emergency shelters and transitional housing. HUD’s national estimate is based upon data reported by approximately 3,000 cities and counties across the nation. Every year on a single night in January, planning agencies called “Continuums of Care,” along with tens of thousands of volunteers, seek to identify the number of individuals and families living in emergency shelters, transitional housing programs and in unsheltered settings. These one-night “snapshot” counts, as well as full-year counts and data from other sources (U.S. Housing Survey, Department of Education), are crucial in understanding the scope of homelessness and measuring progress toward reducing it. HUD’s latest national estimate notes a continuing decline in family homelessness in the U.S. In January of 2018, there were 56,342 family households with children experiencing homelessness, a 29 percent decline since 2010.
Have a news tip or story idea? Send it to editor@ngazette.com
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ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE
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It’s The Time Of The Year For More And More Deer n By
Sally Griffin
I
t is that time of the year and we are seeing more deer. And I don’t mean reindeer. This is that time of year when deer have moved from higher ground toward our area, seeking more accessible food and shelter. Deer are the largest wild animals that most people will encounter. Colorado is known for their mule deer population. Mule deer are slightly larger and more robust than white-tailed deer. They are named for their larger ears which are said to resemble the ears of the mules used by the early miners. Deer are regarded as forest creatures, but in fact they prefer the areas where open space and forests meet. The same places preferred by many humans. But they don’t come for the view or the environment, they like to shelter in the forest and find food in the open areas. However, like Canada geese, they can thrive even in heavily populated areas. Bike trails, railways, open space and utility rights-of-way serve as deer highways. Our ornamental shrubs and plants serve as deer dining rooms. If salt is used on highways after snowstorms, it serves as deer seasoning. In other words, deer can thrive in any suburban habitat that we have created. As an example, we lived for short period of time in large apartment complex in Colorado Springs. It was relatively close to the mountains in an area that was known for its wildlife. But to show how close that wildlife could come, we experienced both a midnight coyote party in the lower parking lot and the birth of a fawn almost on our front doorstep. Luckily, not at the same time. When asked about the doe and her new fawn, the management assured us that this was what she did every year. She had found this was the best way to protect her fawn from partying coyotes and other predators. She clearly did not regard humans as being in the predator category. Deer, while beautiful, are also voracious. They can destroy plants and trees in our landscapes with overbrowsing. They can cause other problems when they share the same space with humans. They can cause serious safety issues on our roadways. A collision between a deer and a car can have serious repercussions for both the deer and the car’s occupants. Lastly, white-tailed deer, in particular, are often the host of ticks that spread Lyme disease. Deer in
Colorado and Wyoming have been found to have chronic wasting disease, which can be transmitted to other animals. While, nation-wide, the population of white-tailed deer has grown from 500,000 in 1900 to over 2 million today, Colorado’s population of mule deer has diminished. Mule deer range through the mountains and Front Range, while white-tail deer are found mostly in river bottom areas of our state. In a 2016 study for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, by Sarah Reed, a conservation scientist, she found that increasing residential development was the most important factor associated with declining mule deer populations. In 2017, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) reported that 7,706 deer where hit by vehicles throughout the state. However, CDOT officials also noted that, usually, only half of deer-related crashes are reported. Many on the Front Range like to see deer in their area. Also, deer hunting has a major impact on Colorado tourism. Consequently, deer in our areas are seen as both negative and positive. Wildlife biologists point out the enormous challenge of managing deer populations in humandominated environments because of the very wide range of expectations people have concerning deer. Some people feed deer while others want to bring in bow hunters to limit the population. If you are one of those that want to feed deer in your area, you are on your own. However, you need to know that suburban deer herds can double in size every two years. This means that problems with suburban deer are likely to increase over time. Communities often debate the merits of hunting versus non-lethal means for managing deer. One method for managing deer in your area is to grow the kind of plants that deer regard as yucky. Common broad-leaved plants in our lawns, flowers and shrubs are treats for deer. However, some plants can serve as repellents. You can also try spraying things like hot sauce on plants in your garden. However, each time it snows, you will need to re-hot sauce your yard. These work by reducing the attractiveness of your yard and making deer look elsewhere. Probably, less appealing is to use odorbased repellents. This means products that smell like rotten eggs, soap, predator urine,
blood meal or other animal parts. These repellents are poured into absorbent cloth bag that is suspended from a tree or pole. However, you may need over 500 of these bags per half-acre of ground. Research shows that odor-based repellents work better than taste-based ones, but that also means humans have to endure the awful smell and need to reapply it on a regular basis, e.g. every time it snows or rains or every five to six weeks. Another method is fencing. The right kind of fencing can keep deer away from gardens and off dangerous sections of roads. Several fence designs can be used, including both barrier and electric fences. However, low fences seldom work. A high-tensile, woven-wire fence that is eight to 10 feet tall is the most effective. A 90 percent reduction
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of deer-vehicle accidents was achieved along an 8-mile stretch of I-70 with the installation of an eight-foot deer fence. Strobes, sirens, water sprays and other devices have been used to frighten deer. These, however, have limited effectiveness and may complicate your relationship with your neighbors. Dogs and invisible fences can be more effective. But this, of course, depends on the type of dog. A German shepherd works better than a toy poodle, for instance. The invisible fence keeps the dog in, not the deer out. Most experts recommend a combination of several techniques to manage deer numbers. This may mean that our communities, not individuals, may need to decide how many deer they want in their area and how to manage that number.
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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 15, 2019 – ngazette.com
Crown Hill Trees Serve As Living Symbols Of Life n By
Ken Lutes
T
rees play an important role in the history and architecture of Olinger Crown Hill Cemetery, at 7777 W. 29th Ave. in Wheat Ridge. Even before the land was a cemetery it was home to an orchard, at least in part, according to Mike Skolaut, Crown Hill’s general manager. Crown Hill has one of the larger and more dense populations of trees in the Denver metro area. Many of the trees are more than 100 years old. “Due to a strong wind two or three years ago, we lost seven blue spruces in one day, one of which was quite old and 120 feet tall,” Skolaut said. That was a painful loss for the cemetery; even so, more than 1,700 trees representing 70 species remain to cover the 247-acre site. Twenty-one of the species are Colorado State Champions. Because of the variety and number of tree species, the cemetery was designated an arboretum by the City of Wheat Ridge in 2007. “My understanding is that at the time we had an arborist on staff who helped to get that designation,” said Skolaut. Crown Hill achieved arboretum status by identifying and documenting its tree
collection, under the guidance of the Denver Botanic Gardens, Front Range Community College, and the Colorado State Forester. Unlike many cemeteries and parks, the trees at Olinger Crown Hill were not planted in straight rows; they are grouped in clusters of 12-15. The most notable trees are the Colorado blue spruce, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, Norway maple, silver maple, ponderosa pine, Rocky Mountain juniper, plains cottonwood, English elms and Schwedler maples. Most of these trees are located in the oldest section of the cemetery, a five-block area that is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. As general manager, Skolaut is tasked with overseeing his grounds manager, who is responsible for the healthy maintenance of the lawn and all of the various plants and trees. Mature trees can provide a grand sense of reverence, but, Skolaut says, “It takes work to improve their look and their health, to make sure we don’t lose them at a rapid rate. “When I was a general manager of two cemeteries in Oklahoma City, we had an ice storm. By the next morning, each of the cemeteries had lost more than a hundred trees, most of which were Bradford pears.” Skolaut is partial to wanting to keep
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A GRANITE MARKER DEPICTS OLINGER CROWN HILL Cemetery blocks of historic designation. PHOTO: KEN LUTES Crown Hill’s trees healthy and able to withstand our region’s severest storms. He hopes people 50 years from now will experience the same variety of quality trees as people do today. To that end, lost trees are replaced in a responsible manner. Hill Cemetery was founded in 1907 by George W. Olinger and is renowned for its historic mausoleum, which is a Denver landmark. The first interment occurred on May 12, 1908, when Augusta Garson was moved from Fairmount Cemetery, according to the National Register of Historic Places. In 1907, the property ran from Wadsworth to Kipling, between 32nd and 26th avenues. About half of that land area is now Jefferson County open space. In a Neighborhood Gazette story published in September 2017, freelance writer Jim Cherney stated, “…in 1978, the County joined the cities of Wheat Ridge and Lakewood to create Crown Hill Open Space Park.” Skolaut believes that over the past 20 years the stigma around cemeteries has started to change. “A cemetery is not a sad place. We have
people come here to have birthday parties with their loved ones. Some have brought mariachi bands. We have dove and balloon releases. More people are celebrating the lives of their loved ones. The cemetery is a place of reverence, but you can honor people in a lot of different ways. We try to provide a facility that honors all of those traditions; it’s more of a place to go where we can remember and celebrate life as opposed to a place where we’re expected to be somber.” The importance of trees to the property is part of Crown Hill’s legacy. Skolaut’s favorite tree is a maple that is visible from the administration building’s front entrance. “In the fall, when we have the right set of weather circumstances, that tree is spectacular. I remember my first year here, stepping out the front door and saying, ‘Oh, my gosh!’” Everyone is welcome to visit the grounds and enjoy the trees, the history and the architecture. Group tours may be arranged by calling 303-233-4611. Stop by the office for maps of self-guided tours of the trees and a walk to 14 points of historic interest. To learn more, visit the National Park Service: www.cr.nps.gov/nr; coloradotrees.org, americanforests.org, and crownhillarboretum.com. Note: Many of this writer’s ancestors have been laid to rest at Olinger Crown Hill Cemetery, beneath a century-old silver maple that in the summertime provides a shady spot for a family picnic. Busy honey bees have maintained a hive in a hollow of the tree for decades. The St. Patrick’s Day blizzard of 2003, which brought more than 30 inches of wet, heavy snow, severely damaged that stately maple that presides over my mother’s grave. Several large branches were lost, but the tree has survived and continues to serve as a symbol of life – and a home to the bees. Contact Ken Lutes at ken.ngazette. com.