Neighborhood Gazette – January 2020 – Edgewater by Neighborhood Gazette

EDGEWATER COUNCIL Addressing Challenges In Aﬀordability And Aging Page 4

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS Ready For A Quiz Of Jeﬀerson County History? Page 5

NEIGHBORHOOD ARTS First Friday At 40 West: ‘Abstracts’ Page 7

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| SLOAN’S LAKE | WEST COLFAX | TWO CREEKS | WEST HIGHLAND January 15 – February 11, 2020 • ngazette.com • FREE

WCCA Continues Advocacy For Historic West Colfax In 2020 n By

William P. Marino

t’s that time of year again – we’re all making fresh New Year’s resolutions. Is one of yours to get better connected to the West Colfax community? Do you want to get the latest inside scoop on local news? Want to interact with local civic leaders? Then West Colfax Community Association (WCCA) is the place for you. WCCA is a long-standing coalition of citizens, business owners, community leaders and local organizations working together to foster an engaged community and advance the economic vitality of West Colfax. WCCA exists to serve Lakewood’s West Colfax, its businesses, residents and partner organizations by providing reliable community information, a forum for community dialogue, and a unified voice for community advocacy to help support the quality of life and economic revitalization of this historic corridor. Continued on page 2

LUIS MARTINEZ AND HIS LITTLE BROTHER TONY HELP THEIR MOM shop at The Action Center’s food pantry. PHOTO BY LAURIE DUNKLEE

The Action Center To Expand Services With Shelter In 2020 n By

Laurie Dunklee

here’s no shame in asking for help,” says Laurie Walowitz, director of programs at The Action Center, a nonprofit that helps people facing hardships or homelessness. “We want everyone to know that we’re here and to feel comfortable coming over.” The Center, at 8755 W. 14th Ave. in Lakewood, serves Jefferson County residents and those experiencing homelessness. Their main services include groceries, clothing and rent assistance. “There’s no typical participant in our programs,” Walowitz said. “Maybe somebody’s car breaks down and they can’t afford to fix it, so they come for one-time help. On the other end are people with longterm issues who come here a lot. We’re here for whoever.” The nonprofit has 25 employees but relies heavily on its more than 4,000 volunteers. Chris Bentson, a volunteer who checks participants in for services, decided she wanted to help after taking a tour of the Center. “I enjoy talking with the people,” she said. “I like finding out their story and knowing that we are helping.” “Volunteers mostly just listen,” said Walowitz. “Our participants can feel invisible and unsupported, but here they are respected. One participant said, ‘When I come here, I feel whole again.’” The Action Center is a one-stop resource for services. Besides food and clothing, participants can make appointments with on-site partners including Jeffco Human Services, Jeffco Workforce Center, Benefits in Action (to help with applications for Medicaid and other programs), and Red Rocks Community College. Rent and utilities assistance is provided, when available, through Federal block grants.

New in 2020 will be a shelter for homeless students attending Red Rocks Community College. Walowitz said the shelter will begin housing single students early this year and build up to 21 beds, including families with children. “Helping to stabilize students while they finish their education is a cutting-edge program to prevent homelessness,” she said. A 2018 survey of more than 3,000 students at four Denver colleges found 18 % had experienced homelessness while in

school. At Red Rocks Community College, “this population is far greater than you would imagine,” says Stephanie Studebaker, a college employee and liaison between the school and The Action Center. The new shelter builds on a longstanding relationship between Red Rocks and The Action Center. A college representative meets participants at the Center to discuss education and career path options and help with applications and financial aid. The Action Center’s most-used service

is the food bank, which distributes more than two tons of food per day. On a recent Thursday the food pantry, which is set up like a grocery store, was well stocked with fresh produce, baked goods, frozen foods and non-perishables. Participant Jessica was shopping with her 14-year-old twin sons, Alex and Caleb. The Wheat Ridge resident also has a 12-year-old and a 16-year-old at home. “We have a bunch of hungry teenagers, so we need food,” said young Alex. Continued on page 11

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

New Edgewater City Manager Wears Many Hats n By

Ken Lutes

love my leadership role,” said Dan Maples, City of Edgewater’s new city manager. Maples welcomes his elevated role with the city, bringing to it the same energy he shared as the city’s deputy city manager. “I like working with people and I love working with staff, trying to get them as efficient and energetic and goal driven as I can. “I have a lot of energy, and I like a lot of things coming at me at once. That’s how I’ve always been. That’s what gets me up in the morning – knowing that I have a lot of things to accomplish.” Maples said that much of what prepared him for stepping into this role must be credited to previous city manager H. J. Stalf, whom he thinks of as a mentor. “H. J. involved me in a lot of different aspects. Being in a small community, you see minute pieces of a lot of things, and you’ve got to wear a lot of hats.” Citing his time as deputy city manager, Maples said that experience helped him to become better able to tackle bigger projects more quickly. “There aren’t as many levels to get through. There’s less red tape than there might be DAN MAPLES, EDGEWATER’S NEWLY in a larger city, and you get to see projects from start to finish. That’s why I like working APPOINTED CITY MANAGER, is eager

to tackle many new city projects in 2020.

Continued on page 2 PHOTO BY KEN LUTES

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020– ngazette.com

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Dan Maples Continued from page 1

for small communities, and that’s why I would always work for a small community. I like the fact that I can get things done.” Edgewater is the third city Maples has worked for. “I worked for the City of Louisville, City of Evans, now here.” He started in Edgewater as its parks and recreation director in 2009, Parks and Recreation having been the focus of his formal education. “I have two master’s degrees, one in exercise science and one in finance that I received since working here. I like the financial side of a lot of things that I do.” On top of his degrees, he earned a certificate in public administration from the University of Colorado - Denver. The city manager is responsible for the administrative side of government – “all the direct staff that works for the city,” Maples said. He provides insights to city council boards and commissions on policies that will affect the city; he manages the city’s budgets, different funds and revenues; he supervises the department heads. The current structure has three department heads: Administrative Services Director, Police Chief and Community Services Director. While the title of Deputy City Manager (Maples’ previous job) has changed to Community Services Director, Maples said the duties of that position will stay about the same, that is, overseeing Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Code Enforcement, Engineering, Planning, Building, and Utilities – water, sewer, and trash. The city recently added a new position for a communications and events coordinator. “Over time, we are looking at increasing the number of department heads but have not finalized a plan for that.” As city manager, Maples will be more involved with the political side of running a city, working with the city council and other boards and commissions. Last year, the council approved a resolution appointing a temporary sustainability board, with the goal that that board would develop a plan that could be approved by council. A lot of that plan would have to do with sustainable efforts regarding

environmentally friendly building systems and water and energy conservation – more solar and other renewable energies. (Find more information on the Sustainability Plan here: bit.ly/2FsBB16) A Traffic Calming Mobility Plan will be kicking into action in 2020. That means there will be many infrastructure changes to several of Edgewater’s major thoroughfares, including along Harlan Street, 20th and 26th avenues; and intersections of 25th and Gray and 25th and Sheridan. “We’ve received a DRCOG grant for a multi-jurisdictional plan of the Sheridan corridor from 17th to 26th avenues, which will involve Denver, CDOT, RTD and Edgewater,” Maples said. The Sheridan Boulevard corridor between 17th and 26th avenues is considered the front door to the Edgewater community. “We want to make it as nice as possible and more pedestrian-friendly. It’s an asset to our community to have access to Sloan’s Lake Park. It’ll be exciting to see what the master plan will look like.” (Check out the proposed Traffic Calming Mobility Plan in this 60-page document: bit.ly/39KpEC1) The city has no property tax and operates solely on sales tax revenue. With the opening of the Public Market at 20th and Depew and the continuing strength of existing and soon-to-open retail stores, Maples doesn’t foresee that situation needing to change. “Our old building at 2401 Sheridan is likely to flip to retail, and our buildings at 25th and Gray – our old, old city hall and the fire station – will flip to commercial,” he said. Maples frequently utilizes the fitness center on the second floor of the new civic center building, just down the hall from his office. “It’s a great stress reliever,” he said. “I used to get up early in the morning and come in for a workout before beginning my day, but I’ve found it’s easier to go after lunch.” The fitness center is open to the public. “There is an admission fee or a membership, but anyone can utilize it.” Maples says he’s happy working for the city and with the staff. “We have a lot of really good people who work for the city.” At the end of the interview for this story, Maples was called away to help with a water heater problem. As he said: “You’ve got to wear a lot of hats.”

WCCA Advocacy Continued from page 1

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“For any West Colfax corridor resident or business owner looking to get plugged into what’s happening in the corridor, WCCA is the best place to connect with the energy of Lakewood’s historic West Colfax community,” said Ron Seigneur, Managing Partner of Seigneur Gustafson LLP, a CPA firm in the corridor, and the incoming president of the WCCA board. WCCA, a 501(c)6 nonprofit, is not a chamber of commerce or networking group, although it does advocate for local businesses and many members often conduct business with one another. It’s more of a community partnership. In collaboration with the City of Lakewood, WCCA partners with the Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District and 40 West Arts District, all working together to bring new energy, new investment and new customers to West Colfax – and help solve problems and celebrate positive progress along the way. More than 600 individuals and businesses are members of these West Colfax-based organizations. “We are working together to help invigorate our community by connecting and collaborating with local business and property owners,” explained Kevin Yoshida, owner of IDEATE Design and a board member for 40 West Arts and the BID. “WCCA’s business beautification and local microgrant programs have helped many local businesses and nonprofits along West Colfax.” For its 20-plus years of service in the

community, WCCA received the Lakewood Mayor’s Inspiration Award. The award recognizes those people and organizations that have made a significant impact in community engagement, collaboration, inclusiveness, diversity and innovation. WCCA meets on the third Wednesday of every month at 1560 Teller St., in Benchmark Theater. Meetings begin at 7:30 a.m. Programs provide news and updates from city officials, local businesses and others about happenings in the corridor and topics of community interest. WCCA is open to all people and points of view who are willing to engage in productive, collaborative dialogue and who wish to collaborate on the revitalization of historic West Colfax and the goals included in the community-generated and city-adopted West Colfax VISION 2040 Action Plan. While there is still plenty of work to do to achieve the goals in the 2040 Vision Plan, many good things are happening in the West Colfax community. Let’s work together to continue the momentum! William P. Marino is the Executive Director of the Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District.

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Looking Back Over 2019, Looking Ahead To 2020 an ice cream manufacturing facility. The property that was our fire elcome 2020! As we enter into a new department, recreation facility, police year, it’s important to review some of offices and the library – all now located in our new civic center at 1800 the many accomplishments and Harlan – began a communityforward movement Edgewater oriented retail build on that made in 2019 – many of which property purchased in 2018 by will carry forward into 2020 CSI - Edgewater, LLC. and beyond. The long-awaited development Edgewater welcomed of 20th and Depew, now the our new City Manager, Dan Edgewater Public Market, owned Maples; he’s been with by LCP Edgewater, LLC, had its Edgewater since 2009, first as grand opening in November and Park and Recreation Director, brings another community hub then Community Services and to Edgewater and surrounding Deputy City Manager. cities. He brings exciting new Laura Keegan Our old city office at 2400 processes and ideas to the city. He worked with our past city manager as Sheridan was put under contract to West we held numerous community meetings in Shore Hospitality, LLC for the building of a 2019 to plan the Edgewater Traffic Calming new restaurant. Another property, The Village at Mobility Plan to bring traffic calming and enhanced public safety to our arterial streets Edgewater, a new subdivision on 29th and Kendal, north of Terra Gardens, was and, eventually, to the Sheridan corridor. Once this was adopted by council, a basic approved and will bring new housing to timeline was established for scheduling the Edgewater. The property to the south of our civic work over the upcoming years, with work to center was purchased in 2019 and cleared of begin in late spring and summer of 2020 in several buildings. This opens up that parcel several high-need areas. The Edgewater Comprehensive Plan to become part of Walker-Branch Park. Our recreation facility, in addition to study was also launched. Some of the first being a full workout facility with an array of of the community outreach meetings were top-of-the-line equipment, gymnasium and initiated and will continue into 2020. 2019 was an election year for Edgewater indoor track has added many programs to with council members Steve Conklin and enhance our citizens’ health and well being. There were too many achievements Cory Reid-Vanas re-elected; new council members Micha Rosenoer and Casey Earp to fit into this column, so I have only been elected; and Laura Keegan re-elected as able to touch on a few of the numerous accomplishments made in Edgewater last mayor. Several approved developments that year. Happy New Year, Edgewater! had been on the horizon are complete, in Edgewater Mayor Laura Keegan can progress or will soon begin. The property that once housed our be reached at lkeegan@edgewaterco. police department is now Pizzeria Forte and com. n By

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EDGEWATER CITY COUNCIL How We’re Addressing Affordability And Aging In Place n By

John Beltrone

through intergenerational programs.

hether you are currently a Sunshine Home Share This past year, city council heard from homeowner, renter or looking to buy, it probably won’t surprise you to hear that Alison Joucovsky, Executive Director of housing prices have doubled in Edgewater Sunshine Home Share Colorado. Alison since 2013. You may have also heard about spoke about Sunshine’s work to promote reports of the shifting demographics in aging in place through a safe, caremanaged, home-sharing model Colorado, with populations 65 that pairs homeowners 55 and and older expected to double older with renters seeking a between 2016 and 2030 to 1.3 discounted living opportunity. million. The program generates income, The convergence of higher assistance and companionship housing costs and an aging for older adults while accessing population creates unique untapped affordable housing challenges for Edgewater. Take for home seekers. the threat to aging in place (the This is a proven model ability to live in one’s own home and has benefited many and community regardless of communities like Edgewater age), for example. Maintaining over the past few years. In fact, a certain lifestyle and staying in John Beltrone Sunshine is one of many homeEdgewater become difficult as rents and property taxes increase and care sharing nonprofits that have taken off across the United States. Like Sunshine, most of services become more costly. One way to address these challenges these organizations focus on thoughtfully is through strategic planning at the city. matching older adults with younger home Affordability and aging will continue to sharers. If you or someone you know might be key topics of discussion as Edgewater’s updated Comprehensive Plan is finalized in be interested in becoming a home 2020. Additionally, partnering with other provider or home seeker, you can visit government agencies helps us leverage the sunshinehomeshare.org or call Sunshine at resources of larger entities. But a wide- 303-915-8264. ranging approach should also include the many nonprofit organizations working in A Little Help these areas. Below are two organizations A Little Help connects older adults with that are creatively empowering people to Continued on page 11 tackle affordability and aging challenges

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ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Ready For A Quiz Of Jefferson County History? n By Sally Griﬃn

efferson County has a rich history that seldom receives the attention it deserves. Most history books focus on the city of Denver and on activity in the mountain areas, but little on the area that lies between Denver and the mountains. Thanks to a number of active historical associations throughout Jefferson County, this history is being preserved. I plan to visit these historical societies and do a series of articles for the Neighborhood Gazette on the wide and varied history for one of the first counties in the state of Colorado. But, being a former teacher and professor, I can’t resist starting with a pre-test on the history of Jefferson County:

1. Who was the outlaw that sought and received refuge in Jeffco?

Jesse James cooled off after a train robbery for a short while with the Mielke Family in Deer Creek. In appreciation, he gave the family a gold bar. For quite some time, they would take slivers off that gold bar to pay for supplies.

2. Who was Lakewood’s version of Al Capone?

Lou – the King of the Bunks, “The Fixer” – Blonger controlled most of the illegal activities in Jeffco and parts of Denver in the early 1900s. He died in prison in 1934.

3. Where did the only convicted cannibal in Colorado live when he was paroled in 1901?

Alferd E. Packer lived in a dugout in Deer Creek and worked on ranches in the area, including the Rooney Ranch. He was known around Tiny Town as a nice old man who gave out candy to children in the area. (He must have gotten reformed in prison or, else, wasn’t very hungry!)

4. Whose train robbery loot is possibly still buried somewhere in the Deer Creek area?

Horsethief Thompson of the Hole-InThe-Wall gang visited Deer Creek often and was known in the area for his veterinary skills, particularly with horses. Nobody talked about any horses going missing. And, no one ever heard of his loot being found.

5. How many settlers lived in Jeffco in 1855? Less than 200.

6. How many people were in Jeffco in 1860?

About 35,000. (It is amazing what that shiny metal did to people in the middle 19th Century.)

7. Which city in Jeffco had the first gold discovery?

Arvada in 1850 on what is now known as Ralston Creek, by Lewis Ralston, who was with a party on their way to the California gold fields.

8. Which city in Jeffco was the first territorial capital?

Golden City (later, just Golden). Golden was later beat out by Denver as the territorial and then state capital. In exchange, Golden was given the School of Mines, which became Colorado School of Mines after Colorado became a state.

9. Which city was the first incorporated city in Jeffco?

Golden City in 1871. (No surprise there!)

10. When and where was the first recorded homesteader in Jeffco under the 1863 Homestead Act? 1863 in Wheat Ridge by Henry Stevens.

BOYD CABIN IS THE EARLIEST RECORDED RESIDENCE IN WHEAT RIDGE, and today is still standing in the Wheat Ridge Historical Park at 4610 Robb St. COURTESY WHEAT RIDGE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

11. Where were the first school and post oﬃce in Jeffco located? Golden City in 1860.

12. What was the first newspaper in Jeffco?

The Western Mountaineer, published by George West in 1859 out of Golden. It was also the fourth newspaper in the state of Colorado.

13. What Native American tribe regularly visited the Howells of Lakewood in the 1870s?

The Utes, in particular, those led by Chief Colorow.

14. What is the origin of Sloan’s Lake?

Thomas Sloan wanted to irrigate his land and dug a well. The well turned out to be a bigger source of water than expected and soon overflowed on over 200 acres and formed what we now know as Sloan’s Lake. You could only homestead 160 acres and he flooded 40 more acres than that.

15. How long did it take toll roads in the 1860s to reach the mountain mining camps up Clear Creek? Four days, with a stopover in Golden.

16. What three Civil War generals visited Jeffco in 1868?

The big three: Generals Grant, Sherman Continued on page 7

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020– ngazette.com

LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT Wild Kratts Winter With PBS Kids At Alamo Drafthouse n By

Gazette Staff

or a small donation of only $1 to $5, you and your little ones can enjoy Alamo Drafthouse’s ongoing PBS KIDS at the Alamo series. This installment: Wild Kratts Winter. Three episodes, all with a wintery theme, all with that awesome Wild Kratts focus: educating children about biology, zoology and ecology while teaching them small ways to make big impacts. All ticket sales benefit local PBS station KLRU. Simply select “Edit Order” in the checkout process to choose your ticket amount. This is an all-ages show with “Alamo for All” rules: Noisy young fans won’t be asked to leave the theater, but just as with regular shows, cellphones and other devices must stay dark. Lights will stay a little brighter and the sound will be turned down during the show. Visit drafthouse.com/denver/show/ wild-kratts-winter for more.

Chelsea Marcantel’s ‘Airness’ Explores The World Of Competitive Air Guitar If you’re craving stage but need something … different … something not so dark and wintery, consider “Airness,” an epic tale exploring the world of … competitive air guitar. When protagonist Nina enters her first air guitar competition, she’s certain winning will be easy. But upon befriending a group of charismatic nerds – themselves all committed to becoming the next champion – Nina discovers there’s an art

to the invisible axe. “Airness” is way more than a silly tale of playing pretend, it’s about finding yourself in your favorite songs and performing with raw joy. Will Nina be able to finally set herself free onstage? Airness is an exuberant reminder that everything we need to rock is already inside us. A comedy about competition, completion and finding the airness inside yourself. Oh, and Nancy Wilson (of Heart, if you don’t know. Which you should). “Airness” runs Feb. 8 through 29 at Benchmark Theater, 1560 Teller St. Tickets are $30 for general admission, $25 for students/seniors/veterans. All Thursday night performances are $15. Visit benchmarktheatre.com/2020 to learn more.

‘Helios Overture’ And More At The Jefferson Symphony Orchestra’s Winter Concert While the Front Range is a sunny locale, winter is winter, and even us sunspoiled Coloradans crave the longer days of spring and summer. Perhaps Jefferson Symphony Orchestra’s (JSO) performance of Carl Nielsen’s “Helios Overture,” offering audiences a musical vision of Greek god Helios and his chariot of the sun and sky, is what the doctor has in order? Also in tune with the season, the JSO will offer after Neilsen two works by William Grant Still in time for Black History Month. Known as “the dean of African-American composers,” Still was also a major cultural contributor to the Harlem Renaissance. JSO performs Still’s “Second Symphony”

WINTER IS WINTER, SO PERHAPS JEFFERSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S (JSO) PERFORMANCE of Carl Nielsen's “Helios Overture,” offering audiences a musical vision of Greek god Helios and his chariot of the sun and sky, is what the doctor has in order? Tickets range $25 for adults down to $5 for children. Visit tickettailor.com/events/jeffersonsymphonyassociation/328854 for more information or to purchase. PHOTO COURTESY JEFFERSON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA and includes artist Don Hilsberg as featured soloist in Still’s “Ennanga” for harp and orchestra. The show concludes with Argentinian Alberto Ginestera’s “Estancia,” an idealization of gaucho life on the grassy Patagonian plains. The Winter Concert is Sunday, Feb. 16, 3 p.m., at the Green Center, Colorado School

of Mines, 924 Sixteenth St., in Golden. Tickets range $25 for adults down to $5 for children. Visit tickettailor.com/events/jeffersonsymphonyassociation/328854 for more information or to purchase. Continued on page 11

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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ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

NEIGHBORHOOD ARTS

Make Your Valentine’s Reservations Now!

First Friday At 40 West: ‘Abstracts’ n By

Gazette Staff

f you love supporting your local artists and want to learn more about abstract forms of expression, “Abstracts” is the show for you. Abstract art uses the concepts of form, color, motion and line — as opposed to concrete shape — to create elements of feeling, emotion, pattern, expression and vision. “Abstracts” opens 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, Feb. 7 at the 40 West Arts District, 1560 Teller St., and runs through Feb. 29. The opening will feature the work of David Chambers. The opening reception will also feature numerous works from a diversity of artists. Beverages and “light bites” will be available. All of the 40 West Arts District galleries and creative businesses will be open. Don’t let abstract art’s purported lack of concreteness dissuade you: This particular genre provides the viewer the room to translate and imagine. All interpretations are welcome, and the show will feature everything from the slightly abstract, with subtle changes to shape and form, to the wholly abstract, where no easy resemblance to anything concrete is offered. Come one, come all! Visit 40westarts.org/events to learn more.

Yuri Pattison Lecture Coming To RMCAD Our lives are so enmeshed with digital technologies we might not always stop to ponder the questions of how and why we engage with these mediums – and now, with artificial intelligence a fact of our existence, how they approach us. Irish artist Yuri Pattison uses digital technology, video and sculpture to investigate the political and social ramifications of the rapid development of technology and the depth of visual culture in the networked age. It’s easy to forget your experience with a digital technology is not the same as another person’s, and Pattison explores these multiple relationships between visual cultures, physical and digital space, communication technologies and the circulation of information. Presently, Pattison’s interests include time and advanced timing technologies and the relationship to new colonial tendencies within the digital economies. Pattison currently works in London. Pattison will give a free lecture on Feb. 18 at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) in the Mary Harris

Jeffco History Continued from page 5

and Sheridan. Grant evidently liked Golden because he returned when he was President in 1873.

17. What Colorado college had its start in the town of Morrison?

In 1883, the Jesuits opened Sacred Heart College in Morrison. At that time, it was mostly a prep school for girls as young as 14 years. But it later moved to Berkeley in north Denver and became Regis College, later Regis University.

18. Where was the first major dinosaur discovery in North America made?

This was found in the Morrison Formation along the Dakota Hogback near the town of Morrison in 1877. This area continues to provide training and surprises for future paleontologists to this day.

19. When it opened in 1889, what was the largest amusement park west of

West 29th Avenue at Depew Street

west29th.com

303-233-3377

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY ARTIST YURI PATTISON will give a free lecture on Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m., at the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design, 1600 Pierce St. PHOTO COURTESY RMCAD Auditorium at 1600 Pierce St. Attendees must register beforehand. Doors open at 6 p.m.; the lecture starts at 6:30. Visit rmcad.edu/vasd-lecture/yuri-pattison/ to claim your spot.

Justin Beard and Julien Palmiha At Pirate: Contemporary Art Through Jan. 26 There’s still time – through Jan. 26 – to see the work of artists Justin Beard and Julien Palmilha at Pirate: Contemporary Art. Palmilha is a trained graphic designer and fashion photographer and enjoys wrapping his art “in a high-flying aesthetic synthesis” that privileges pose, light and staging. He seeks to effect a “rapture of the gaze” that is, he feels, best accomplished by what he says is a “disturbing strangeness” in his work. Justin Beard has had showings around the region, and his installations have surrealist overtones and a political bent. Viewers are invited to question the boundaries of private space vis-avis the public, the human effect on the environment, the unspoken policing of our youth and the commodification of the natural for our amusement. Pirate: Contemporary Art is located at 7130 W. 16th Ave., and is open Fridays, 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 5 p.m.

the Mississippi?

This was Manhattan Beach on the northwest side of Sloan’s Lake. This amusement park only lasted a couple years, but it was spectacular while it lasted.

20. How did 17,000 gallons of beer end up in Clear Creek? (Do fish like beer?)

In 1916, Prohibition went into effect and the response from Coors Brewing Company was to dump their entire stock of beer into Clear Creek. But further up Clear Creek, there was at least one bootlegger during prohibition because, a couple years later, he accidentally started a major fire in the canyon. No relation to Coors, though, because the company, by this time, had turned to making malt and ceramics in order to survive the prohibition era.

How did you do?

Don’t worry. This was just a pre-test and it should give you some interesting facts you can amaze (or bore) your friends with. In the next several months, I hope to find interesting stories, people and places that will show what a varied and interesting history Jefferson County has had.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020– ngazette.com

WEST METRO FIRE

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n 2019, West Metro firefighters answered nearly 36,000 calls, and we expanded two life-saving programs – finding new ways to use technology to better serve our community and improve the quality of life. Less than one year after introducing the innovative LUCAS device, we placed the device on every one of our ambulances. The LUCAS is a chest compression system that helps our firefighter/paramedics and EMTs deliver continuous, high quality CPR to cardiac patients. Since it was introduced in March 2018, our crews have treated more than 20 patients who would not have survived without the device. Those patients were able to walk out of the hospital and get back to their lives and families. Another innovation is our ARM Car program, which brings healthcare to the patient. In 2019, the ARM Car staff treated

Have a talk with your teen about boundaries. Setting and adjusting boundaries is an ongoing process throughout life for everyone. For teens, it’s especially important to have clear boundaries, because adolescence is a time of great change, and youth with clear boundaries are happier and safer. Talk to your teen about their current boundaries, whether those are curfews, privileges, etc. Have an open, back-and-forth conversation with them about their wants and needs — decisions are more likely to stick that way.

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Ronda Scholting

hundreds of patients, saving more than $1 million in healthcare costs. ARM is short for advanced resource medic, and in 2019 we put a new ARM Car vehicle on the road to meet the demand for service. In 2020, we’re planning to expand the program even more – from four to seven days a week. 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. In 2019, West Metro took to the skies, launching a drone program, which gives our crews an “eye in the sky” perspective during incidents. The drones have been valuable in keeping our firefighters safe and assisting crews during structure fires and technical rescues. In April, a drone was used to scout the quickest way out for crews rescuing an injured hiker in Clear Creek Canyon. Continued on page 11

FITNESS CORNER Don’t Let A Setback Be The Endgame n By

Kevin M. Smith

fat-burning, muscle-building hour. Most people are not going to get adequate sleep (an important factor for weight loss and muscle building), if they have to wake up at 4 a.m. Find a time of day to exercise that fits your schedule and circadian rhythm.

think it’s safe to say many people take the beginning of a new year to try to be healthier through diet or exercise. If you made a resolution for healthier habits, chances are that by the time you’re reading this you’ve already quit, are close to quitting, or maybe Make Smart Decisions haven’t even started yet. I’ve Last year around this time read numerous articles that I met with a client who had lost mention “ditch day” or “quitter’s almost 40 pounds the previous day” – usually between Jan. 12 year. He had about 20 pounds and 20 – when people abandon to go for his goal, plus wanted their resolutions. to start building more muscle. I’m here to tell you that His workout plan was solid, but having a rough patch two weeks he mentioned what likely would into a new routine isn’t the time have been his downfall: he was to quit. thinking of extending it to seven We all have setbacks. Don’t days per week. Rest days are Kevin M. Smith let a setback be an excuse to call needed for recovery, otherwise it quits. Below are three tips on how to get you’re headed for burnout. yourself to the place you’ve envisioned. And if burnout sets in, it doesn’t mean you should call it quits. A busy week doesn’t justify throwing in the towel either. Take Set Attainable Goals a moment and breath. Refocus on those For example, it’s not realistic (and often goals and make sure they’re attainable. not healthy) to lose more than a couple of Consider what is realistic. Then, make some pounds per week. This can be frustrating, decisions. Having a “plan” will get you much but you have to think big picture. After three farther than having a “resolution.” months you could be down 15-20 pounds. Consider working with a coach who understands your unique lifestyle and Be Realistic personal goals. A coach will help you be One aspect of that may be timing. If realistic about what you can accomplish and you’re not a morning person, getting a coach you when the going gets tough (and it workout in before 6 a.m. may not work for will). you. Kevin Smith is a coach at Feed Your Lately, I’ve been seeing more and more Soul Fitness (www.feedyoursoulfitness. videos show up on my YouTube feed of com), a local business focused on fitness, celebrities or fitness professionals doing a nutrition and accountability. “4 a.m. workout” as if that’s some magical

ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

ASK THE EXPERT

What’s Happening in the WRBA

Free Mortgage And Rent Reports! vs Buy.” The numbers are staggering. Here’s an example. If paying just $1,000 ime for a financial checkup! Do you fit per month for rent and assuming rent into any of these categories? increases 5% every year, over the next five years you will pay the landlord $66,309. If currently renting a Carrying credit card debt? bigger house, that number will Chances are that you are be double, triple or more. You paying very high interest rates gain no equity by shelling out on any balances carried over this monthly housing expense each month. Ideally, your goal and no benefit to you when should be to only spend what property values increase! you can pay off in total each Get these free reports month. If credit cards are maxed tailored for your situation. No out, it is hurting your credit obligation – just information. score, putting your family at • “Rent vs Buy” – risk to face collections or even compare monthly payments, file bankruptcy. Not to mention Wanda Norge future value and tax savings the interest charges adding up • “Property Comparison/Cost Of monthly that is a waste of your money. Or, if you are hesitant to move up to a Waiting” – compare three properties with more expensive home, let’s look at debt different loan options with details on the consolidation to bridge the gap in payment cost of waiting to buy for one, two and three difference. We can work on a budget plan so years your family can get into a different location • “Debt Consolidation” – compare or bigger home by cleaning up the debt, and current view of debts to proposed putting together the steps so you can list the consolidation payments • “Property Home Value” – get house and move on. current home value based on recently sold homes similar to your same style and size Still have monthly mortgage • “Community Report” – shows insurance? Many first-time homebuyers start out education, labor force, housing data, crime, with FHA loans or other “affordable” loans demographics for a given address or Zip to get into a home. These can have slightly code that can be used when house shopping higher rates, or include monthly mortgage • “Divorce Pre-Approvals” – insurance as part of the monthly payment preliminary numbers report to support a to offset putting less than 20% down. As buyout or new purchase. values increase, loan balances decrease with Get your 2020 financial goals started off regular payments, credit scores go higher on the right foot! with on-time payments, it is a great idea Wanda Norge is a Mortgage Consulto review the current loan. It could save tant (NMLS: 280102), Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP), and part of hundreds on the monthly payment. n By

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With interest rates low, more down payment assistance programs available, and values increasing, it is a great time to buy a home. Skeptical? Get your free report, “Rent

the National Association of Divorce Professionals (NADP) Leadership Team, with Equilane Lending, LLC (NMLS: 387869), 16 years experience. Contact her at 303-4196568 or loans@wandanorge.com, or visit www.wandanorge.com.

ASK THE SUPER

Congrats to our ﬁnal Every Member Drawing winner EduCyber, Inc., they won $200 at our Biz Mix November 20, very well deserved.The Drawing will start again in Jan. 2020. HUGE thank you to our co-hosts Clear Fork Cider, Nostalgic Homes, Affordable Computers, Wild & Precious Optimal Living, Proﬁle by Sanford & Rotary Club of Wheat Ridge and to everyone who braved the cold! Catering provided by Cibo Meals

FEBRUARY 2020 MEMBERSHIP BREAKFAST DATE: Tuesday, February 11, 2020 TIME: 7:00am-9:00am LOCATION: Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, CO COST: $15 for WRBA Members and their guests, $18 for Non-members TOPIC: Networking for Success SPEAKER: Sam Wilson, Broker,

Owner and CEO, Wilson Group Real Please RSVP & pay for this event by 5pm on Thursday, February 6. Estate wheatridgebiz.com/upcoming_events/ Meeting Sponsor: TBA Member Business Spotlight: TBA

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Jill Folwell - Colorado Modern Kitchen Chelsea Bunker - Bunker Strategies Stephanie Walter - Erbe Investment Group We would love to have you join us for our next meeting. Call (720) 588-2317 or Email Membership Chair today for more information.

Don Seyfer • 303-422-5261 4501 Harlan St. • seyferauto.com

Goal Setting For The New Year a follower of Dave Ramsey’s financial program for years. Sarah (my wife) and I even taught it to employees in our previous f you are like me, the new year is a time for district. Ramsey has some good advice for reflection and also for setting goals for the setting new year’s goals in specific areas. coming year. When I was a high-school kid These include: growing up in Kentucky, my dad sat down • Financial Goals – getting your finances and taught me about the importance of under control and on budget setting annual goals in different • Fitness Goals – getting in categories and identifying better condition or reaching outcomes associated with those some accomplishment goals. • Spiritual Goals – taking steps For Jeffco Public Schools, on your personal faith journey our goals and measurable • Educational Goals – personal outcomes are set forth in our academic or intellectual growth strategic plan. Each year, our • Family Goals – building board of education reviews the stronger family connections plan and our progress toward • Career Goals – planning or meeting our goals. One focus taking that next career step or area for this year in Jeffco is Dr. Jason Glass accomplishment raising our academic outcomes • Social Goals – connecting and building as measured on standardized tests. While relationships with others these tests certainly don’t tell us everything I encourage you to think through some about how our kids and schools are doing, of your goals for 2020. And, like Dad did they do measure important concepts of basic for me, I also encourage you to talk to your literacy and numeracy. With around 60 days students about their goals for this coming until the state testing window opening up, year. schools in Jeffco are working to implement Let’s all work to make 2020 the best the Jeffco Deeper Learning Model as a way year yet! to create authentic and meaningful learning Jason E. Glass, Ed.D., is the Superinexperiences for students that also prepare tendent & Chief Learner of Jeffco Public them with these fundamental skills. Schools (www.jeffcopublicschools.org). Of course, goal setting is not just good If you have a question for our superfor organizations. It is also good for parents, intendent please submit it to TheGuy@ staff members and students to consider KW.com or call it in to 303-999-5789. as well. Some of you may know I’ve been n By

Paul V. LoNigro • 303-423-0162 9195 W. 44th Ave. • e-gia.com

Jason E. Glass

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Feed Your Soul Fitness Fitness Martin• • Nutrition • Support 446 Orchard St. • Golden Brandy 303-947-5631 303-279-4220 • MahnkeAutoBody.com Go to FeedYourSoulFitness.com feedyoursoulﬁtness.com to learn more Located at 44th & Chase • 303-947-5631

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Tim Berland • 303-995-2806 ngazette.com

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020– ngazette.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING Nominate Your ‘Green Hero’ For A Lakewood Sustainability Award The City of Lakewood is calling for nominations of those who enrich and make our community more sustainable for a Lakewood Sustainability Award. Stories of saving energy, increasing recycling, cutting greenhouse gases, growing local food, cleaning up the environment and other sustainable approaches are examples of projects eligible for the 2020 awards. Nominations for Lakewood’s “green heroes” are open through March 16 on the city’s website. The awards are open to residents, youth, local businesses, student groups, city employees and community organizations that deserve to join Lakewood’s sustainability hall of fame. The awards are given in the categories of Community Sustainability, Defender of the Planet for youth leadership and Bruce Peoples’ EcoEmployee for City of Lakewood employees. Projects must have been completed in 2019 or 2020. Past awards have recognized zero-waste events, innovative and energy-efficient building developments, environmental and ecological restoration, energy conservation, recycling efforts, and neighborhood garden programs. Learn about the past winners on the sustainability website and see who inspires you. Visit at Lakewood.org/SustainabilityAwards for details and to nominate.

any broken or burned out strings of lights until Jan. 19 at the Quail Street Recycling Center, 1068 Quail St., in Lakewood. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and all types of strings are accepted.

Romance Novelist To Speak Fans of romance and women’s fiction are in for a night of romantic indulgence Jan. 25 when Jefferson County Public Library brings New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr to Colorado. Carr is the bestselling author of over 40 novels, which have sold more than 28 million copies. She headlines Romance in the Rockies, an event at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities. Tickets are free but required for entrance. To register or for more information, visit JeffcoLibrary.org/romance.

Tax Prep Volunteers Needed Tax Help Colorado is seeking volunteers for the 2020 tax season. Each year, Tax Help Colorado operates more than 30 free tax sites, known as Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites, throughout the state and provides free tax preparation assistance to families who earn less than $56,000 a year. For additional information, visit GaryCommunity.org/volunteer or contact Sasha Prell at sprell@garycommunity.org.

There’s Still Time To Recycle Your Broken And Burned-Out Holiday Lights

Valentine’s Day Painting Uncorked, Art Supply Sale Coming To Lakewood Gallery

As you take down your holiday decorations, remember that you can recycle

The always popular new and gently

used Art Supply Sale will take place at the Lakewood Gallery, 6731 W. Colfax Ave., in Lakewood, Feb. 2 through 28. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Valentine's Day – Friday Feb. 14 – will bring Painting Uncorked, a painting with wine class to the gallery. Sip, paint and enjoy sweet and savory snacks for $38 per person, $70 for two, or $90 for the special VIP package, which includes flowers and chocolates. Space is limited. Call the gallery at 303-980-0625 or go to lakewoodarts.org for more info and to sign up.

Want To Transform Lives? Become A Volunteer Driver For Seniors’ Resource Center Seniors’ Resource Center invites you to make a difference in your community by providing rides for older adults. It’s a great volunteer opportunity for retirees, stay at home parents and those with flexible schedules. SRC provides rides to medical appointments, the grocery store and other critical needs Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Even an hour or two of your time will make a huge difference to an older adult. The gesture speaks volumes and new friendships will be made. If you would like to volunteer or know someone who would, please email Pat Pierson at PPierson@SRCaging.org or call 303-332-3840.

County Public Health Offering Free Radon Home Test Kits This Month January is National Radon Action Month, and Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is encouraging residents to protect themselves and loved ones from dangerous radon gas by testing their homes. To help, JCPH is offering free radon test kits all month long, while supplies last, one per address and on a first come-first served basis, at our location in Lakewood at 645 Parfet St. After January and throughout the remainder of 2020, radon test kits will be available for purchase at JCPH for $10 each. Radon is a dangerous and naturally occurring radioactive gas that you cannot smell, taste or see. People are exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon in air that enters homes and other buildings through cracks and gaps in foundations. Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and a top environmental cause of cancer nationwide. In Jefferson County, more than half of the homes tested have high levels of radon. While there is always some radon in the air, high levels of exposure to radon over time can lead to a significant risk of developing lung cancer. The risk of lung cancer is even greater for smokers who are exposed to radon. In addition to providing the free test kits, JCPH staff will be available to help homeowners understand how to use the test kits properly and what to do if the test results show high levels of radon in the air. Resources may be available for those whose homes test positive for high levels of radon and who qualify through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. If you have questions about radon and your home’s risk, please visit www.jeffco. us/2337/Radon to see frequently asked questions and helpful information.

Nine Wise Winter Weather Tips For Your Pet Winter creates a whole new canvas in the living landscape, with snow blanketing our backyards, community parks and

schoolyards. But there are some simple steps pet owners need to take to ensure their pups are safe and healthy during the cold weather months, according to the TurfMutt Foundation, which encourages outdoor learning experiences and stewardship of our green spaces. 1. Bring outdoor dogs inside: The safest, most comfortable place for your pet during the winter months is inside with you. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s also too cold for your pet. Offer a warm, dry place to rest inside. A pet bed works perfectly. 2. Know your fur facts: With the exception of the fur in between their paw pads, which you should trim to prevent painful ice balls from forming, do not cut your dog’s fur in the wintertime. Pets naturally develop winter coats to protect them from the harsh elements. Also, remember that not all dogs are created equally well for winter conditions. Smaller dogs, those with shorter hair, older pups, and pets who are sick might need winter attire like a coat or protective booties to be comfortable outside. For very frail pups and young puppies who have a hard time regulating their body temperature, you will want to limit exposure to necessary breaks and very short walks. 3. Keep them clean & dry: Keep a dry, clean towel near the door to wipe down your pet’s legs, belly and paws after each outdoor excursion. Also, check your dog’s ears, paws and tail for any sign of frostbite, which shows up as discolored skin, swelling or blisters. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, shallow breathing, weak pulse and lethargy. If either of these conditions appears, take your dog to a warm, dry place and contact your vet. Finally, ice-melt is helpful for humans, but it can hurt your furry friend by irritating their skin and can cause serious illness if ingested. 4. Wear reflective gear: Shorter winter days mean daily walks are often done after the sun sets. In addition to choosing a walking route that is lighted and keeping your dog close to you when walking on the street, you can offer extra protection by getting your pet a reflective collar, leash or coat. Reflective clothing is a good idea for humans, as well. Lighted headgear not only helps drivers see you, it also makes it easier to clean up after your dog when you’re on a walk in the dark. 5. Be careful around ice: Slipping on ice accumulated on sidewalks and roads can cause muscle strains and other injuries. For those who live near a pond or lake, extra precautions need to be taken to keep your dog – and yourself – away from frozen bodies of water. Even if it looks solid, you or your pet could fall through thin ice. 6. Be food & water wise: Winter air is dry, so make sure your pet has unlimited access to fresh, clean water to drink. Monitor their food and snack intake since indoor pets – like humans – will burn fewer calories during the winter months. 7. Operate outdoor power equipment safely: Using a snow thrower can make quick work of snow removal and create a path to your pet’s relief area. But always keep kids and pets inside, away from the equipment when it is in operation. Having a portable generator on hand can help your whole family stay safe and warm during a winter power outage. Use it safely by keeping the generator dry and placing it outside, away from windows, doors and vents. 8. Be prepared for emergencies: When you are preparing your family’s winter emergency kit, don’t forget the family pet. You should include enough food, water and medication to last five days. 9. When all else fails, have fun inside: As much as your dog might love romping in the snow, there will simply be days when winter weather makes getting exercise outdoors impossible. Stave off boredom by teaching your dog a new trick or working on an obedience lesson inside. Treat toys and puzzle games provide both mental and physical stimulation until the weather improves. To learn more about the benefits of your family lawn for pets and people during all seasons, go to TurfMutt.com.

ngazette.com – JANUARY 15 – FEBRUARY 11, 2020 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Entertainment

ties-murder-on-the-orient-express to learn more.

Continued from page 7

Dolly Day Denver At The Oriental Theater, Jan. 26

‘Murder on the Orient Express’ Opens Jan. 31 At Arvada Center

JESSICA AND HER SONS, ALEX (LEFT) AND CALEB, PREPARE TO SHOP in the food pantry. “I love getting fresh produce because we can cook fresh,” Jessica said. PHOTO BY LAURIE DUNKLEE

Action Center Continued from page 1

The family has been coming to The Action Center for two years to get necessaries like clothing, personal items like shampoo, and household items. “We also need cooking stuff, like Tupperware and a cutting board,” Jessica said. The Action Center, started in 1968, served more than 20,000 people in 2018. About 40 % are homeless and many are families with children, Walowitz said. “Food insecurity hasn’t changed in 50 years. There are more homeless now because of high housing costs, low inventory and population influx. People are moving here without a job or a support system. “We see both chronic and situational poverty, like last January when the government shut down and Federal workers came here for help. Some of our participants, especially older people, never recovered from the 2008 recession. “Rent assistance is an important service to prevent people from becoming homeless.” The Center’s Pathways Program matches participants with a coach to help them define their goals and move their lives forward. Support lasts for up to six months. “Pathways is for folks who are ready to change their lives and identify their goals,” Walowitz said. “Also, those who know what they want but need help getting there.

West Metro Fire Continued from page 8

Because West Metro is an all-hazard fire agency, our firefighters have to be ready for anything, whether it’s a house fire, a rope rescue, a swift-water rescue or a hazardous materials response. We have several special teams, and in 2019 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 assist during a hurricane. West Metro is the host agency for

Edgewater Council Continued from page 4

neighbors who are willing to volunteer their time to help with tasks around seniors’ homes. These volunteers provide a range of assistance, including transportation, yard work, home organization and social engagement. Beyond empowering homeowners to continue living independently, A Little Help strengthens communities and helps bridge the gap

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“Mostly they get encouragement to keep making strides, even when they face setbacks. It’s participant-driven so we see a lot of successes.” Walowitz began her career in business before changing to human services. For 20 years she worked in marketing, as well as in development for a national nonprofit. She did a “midlife reassessment” and earned her master’s in social work at the University of Denver in 2012. “I need the human connection,” she said. “I saw the opportunity to support families in need.” She said she is impressed every day by the people at The Action Center – the staff, volunteers and participants. “I’m inspired by their resilience and their ability to care, their passion to help others and themselves.” The Action Center needs donations of money, time and items. Among the many donation options are partnerships with retailers like King Soopers and Amazon that donate a percentage of purchases to the Center. Among the items needed are food, household items, clothing, school supplies and personal hygiene items. (See theactioncenter.org for donation guidelines, including items the Center cannot accept.) Items can be donated at the Center’s donation dock, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. “Right now, we need winter coats, hats, gloves and scarves,” Walowitz said. Colorado Task Force One, one of 28 Federal Emergency Management (FEMA) urban search and rescue teams. In August, the team was sent to the East Coast, to help out during Hurricane Dorian. Team members come from dozens of fire and rescue agencies across Colorado. As we move forward into 2020, West Metro 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.

between neighbors. A Little Help is seeking volunteers as well as individuals interested in receiving services in our area. Visit alittlehelp.org or call 720-242-9032 for more information. Affordability and aging will undoubtedly continue to be a challenge. However, I believe that with the right policies, partnerships and creative solutions, Edgewater can be a thriving place for all generations. Contact Councilmember John Beltrone at jbeltrone@edgewaterco.com or 720-643-6077.

Reach Up To 25,000 Readers Monthly!

Call Tim Berland 303-995-2806 tim@ngazette.com

The Arvada Center will stage Agatha Christie’s classic “Murder on the Orient Express,” Jan. 31 through May 17. Set in a lavish train trip through Europe, the world’s greatest detective – Hercule Poirot – is in a race against time to solve a murder when an avalanche that stops the Orient Express dead in its tracks. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays with matinees Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $45. Call the Arvada Center box office at 720-898-7200 with questions or to book your seat. Talk Backs – discussions of the production with members of the cast, director and/or designers – follow every performance except opening night and closing matinee. Visit

arvadacenter.org/agatha-chris-

Dolly Day Denver is Jan. 26 at the Oriental Theater, 4335 W. 44th Ave. Events celebrating iconic pop singer Dolly Parton will include a learn-to-line-dance session set to Dolly’s greatest hits and a Drag Queen Story Hour for children and parents alike. The celebration ends with an adult, Dollythemed vaudeville variety show. Also, there will be an attempt at the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people dressed as Dolly Parton. All profits will be donated to The Imagination Library of Denver, which provides books to children up to age 5, no matter their families’ income. While currently serving children in zip codes 80205, 80211 and 80220, their goal is to increase service to the entire Denver area. Full-day tickets are $30 for adults 21 and up. Daytime tickets (3 to 6 p.m.) are $15 for ages 5 and up (younger children are free). Evening Variety Showcase tickets are $20. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; show at 7. Visit dollydaydenver.com for more information.

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The Challenge Of Urban Agriculture In Winter n By

Meghan Godby

nly in Wheat Ridge does a conversation about chickens come up in a bar,” joked Guy Nahmiach, a columnist for the Neighborhood Gazette who also happens to keep a few chickens in his backyard. The discussion, which centered around increasing egg production during colder temperatures, took place at Right Coast Pizza. It’s an unlikely setting, sure, but urban agriculture is on the rise, and our local municipalities are no exception. Ever wonder how things are handled in the winter months? It’s an aspect people are often not prepared for, especially if animals are involved. “Urban farming is all the rage,” Guy said. “Then winter hits.” Urban agriculture – ranching, in particular – is often romanticized. People envision tossing feed to their chickens and watching goats graze on the fresh green grass. But taking care of these animals is more than that, especially when temperatures start to drop. Not only do the animals need to be kept warm, but the sun also sets earlier and rises later. This creates a shift in schedule that is difficult to juggle alongside a day job – animals need to be brought in sooner in the evening and taken out later in the morning. “These are living things you have to tend to,” Guy said. “You can’t just put them away [when you’re done].” While everyone is familiar with the hard work it takes to maintain a full-scale farm, even backyard chickens are pretty high maintenance. The ground is hard and often snow-covered during the winter, so Guy needs to find ways to supplement their feed. “They become like our kids,” he said. “I go to King Soopers to shop for them.”

Fresh water, which needs to be available 24/7, presents its own challenge. While this isn’t a problem in the spring and summer, such isn’t the case during the wintertime. Water must constantly be defrosted or refilled. No exceptions. “There’s a bit of a learning curve,” Guy explained. Guy is working closely with Patrick Goff, Wheat Ridge’s City Manager, to craft a plan that would give urban ranchers more flexibility with their property. The hope is that by sharing their overall vision, they could avoid restrictions that make it challenging to keep an urban farm, like keeping grasses under 12 inches tall. Luckily, Guy keeps his grasses in check with a herd of grazing goats belonging to Amanda Weaver of Five Fridges Farm. “Amanda jokes that my farm is the ‘sixth fridge’,” he said. Tending to his land is important to him; he loves walking it in the evenings and finds it very relaxing. As a real estate professional, he’s always on the go and always talking. This is different. “Here I don’t have to talk, or sell, or promote,” he said. “It’s my Zen space.” This passion is echoed by Wheat Ridge resident John Clark, who maintains an urban ranch with his wife and two sons (both who have been actively involved with the Jefferson County 4-H program). John is no stranger to the challenges that come with urban agriculture. “If you get deeper and deeper into this,” he said, “It starts to become more and more of a full-time job.” John has lived in Wheat Ridge nearly all his life. When his family came across a lot of land with roughly half an acre, they jumped at the opportunity. Their neighbors became quick family friends and eventually

gifted his sons baby chicks. The family built a coop, and the rest was history. Together with the 4-H animals, John and his family keep a variety of critters, including chickens, goats, peacocks and even a rabbit. His biggest challenge? Much like Guy, it’s keeping water thawed. With so many animals to care for, John and his family spend a lot of time breaking ice and shoveling snow to make sure that gates and doors are clear. It’s a lot of work, and it doesn’t stop. “This is every day,” John shared. “We haven’t taken a vacation as a family in five years. Twice a day, every day, there are chores.” In addition to making sure fresh water is always available, there needs to be clean and dry shelter. John does this with strategically placed heaters. And while a garden can easily be “let go” in the winter months, you can’t really take time off from ranching. A lot of animals depend on you. John and his family have experimented with gardening, too, growing a variety of plants like tomatoes, cucumbers and melons. In fact, they once grew a pumpkin that weighed in around 200 pounds. The produce was canned and made into chilis and tomato sauce. The same philosophy applies to his animals as well – there’s a purpose for everything. “Everything we do,” he said, “I try to make sure it’s a project you’re going to eat. [...] I’m not going to raise something I can’t use.” So, why does he think there is a rise in urban agriculture? After speaking with his family, they all agreed. “People want to know what’s in their

URBAN FARMER GUY NAHMIACH KEEPS HIS GRASSES IN CHECK with a herd of grazing goats belonging to Amanda Weaver of Five Fridges Farm: “Amanda jokes that my farm is the ‘sixth fridge’.” PHOTO COURTESY GUY NAHMIACH food. They want to eat right and know where their food is coming from,” he said. “A fresh egg, a fresh tomato, they are better for us, and they taste a whole lot better.” John also thinks the trend is, in part, due to a cultural shift that centers around the buzzword “sustainability,” which can mean different things to different people. But no matter the reason behind your backyard chickens or urban homestead, there’s no doubt that winter brings a unique set of challenges. The best advice? “Just remember the Boy Scout motto,” said John, “and be prepared. When [winter] hits, it hits.”