Neighborhood Gazette – August 2019 – Edgewater by Neighborhood Gazette

EDGEWATER MAYOR A Thank You To Local Heroes

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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS Respite Care Available To Families Of Disabled Children Page 7

NEIGHBORHOOD ARTS New Art Spaces For Kanon Collective And Core Art Page 11

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Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

EDGEWATER

| SLOAN’S LAKE | WEST COLFAX | TWO CREEKS | WEST HIGHLAND August 14 – September 15, 2019 • ngazette.com • FREE

What Will New Growth Limits Mean For Housing, Traffic? n By

Mike McKibbin

akewood’s growth limit initiative will virtually “shut off” affordable housing development in the city, according to one of the major providers of low-income housing projects. Tami Fischer, executive director of Metro Housing Solutions, said the voter-approved ballot measure 200 completely changes the city’s building permit process and will prevent her agency from obtaining crucial state lowincome tax credits that require a “guaranteed” permit. “Without a guaranteed permit, we can’t build,” Fischer said. “It will effectively shut off Lakewood for any real, permanent affordable housing development.” The July 2 question asked city voters to limit residential growth to no more than one percent per year — estimated at about 700 building permits in the first year — through a permit allocation system that will begin in January 2020 and require city council approval of allocations for projects of 40 Continued on page 10

MURALISTS CREATED MASTERPIECES AT COLFAX ARTFEST (previously known as the West Colfax MuralFest) the weekend of Aug. 3 and 4 at Lamar Plaza, while a live DJ provided music for onlookers and revelers. PHOTO COURTESY 40 WEST ART DISTRICT.

Trolley Car No. 25 Rolls Again n By

Sally Griffin

y family loves to use the light-rail system when we visit downtown Denver. It’s fast and easy and saves hunting and paying for a parking space. To judge by the ridership, more and more people are becoming aware and using this light rail system. But what many people don’t know is this is not the first rail system in the Denver area. Denver once had an extensive electric rail transit system that included over 250 miles of city tracks and 40 miles of highspeed interurbans connecting Denver with Golden and Boulder. This rail system used electric trolley cars running on 600 volts of electricity through connection to overhead electrical wires. These trolley cars started running in1911. I can remember my mother talking about riding the trolley every day to her work downtown at the phone company. With increasing use of the automobile and a new gas-run bus system, this rail system was abandoned and the trolley cars all but disappeared. It is said that automobile companies bought up as many of the cars as they could and had them crushed. (Talk about “crushing” the competition!) However, one trolley car, No. 25, was saved. It is the last remaining, completely intact, electric railway car out of more than 250 that once served the Denver area. It was built by Woeber Carriage Company in Denver, which means it was one of the original group of cars build for the rail line. The car is now 108 years old. Starting in 1988, the Rocky Mountain Railroad Club Historical Foundation began a 22-year-long restoration project. This involved more than 500 donors and 96 volunteers who spend almost 24,000 hours working to lovingly restore Car No. 25. The restoration took the car back to its

1911 paint scheme. This was found when the volunteers removed the sheet metal that had been added to the all-wood exterior My husband and I had a chance to ride in the car at the Car No. 25 Open House, Saturday, Aug. 10. It is evident that the car is lovingly restored down to the last detail. The window and seating drew admiration from our fellow passengers, who noted how ingeniously designed and comfortable they were. The volunteers who narrated the ride,

punched our tickets and saw to the safety of all the riders, clearly loved the car and its place in history. We admired both the modern work of those who restored it as well as the craftmanship and artistry that were practiced by those who built it originally. The cars running on the line could hit 40 to 45 miles per hour and even higher when they hit Lakewood Gulch. For its time, it was a fast, convenient ad comfortable way to get around the Denver area.

These cars could be operated from either end, meaning they didn’t need to be turned around at the end of the line. The windows can be opened and slide down into the car body. There was a spot for a potbelly stove, which was later converted to gas. Each wooden seat had electric heat. The cab could be separated from the operator with decorative pocket doors, which come together or apart using either of the door Continued on page 6

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

Edgewater City Manager H.J. Stalf Retires After 10 Years n By

Mike McKibbin

hanging a government structure can be a daunting task, but one H.J. Stalf took on a decade ago with the City of Edgewater. Now he’s ready to hand over the reins of a financially sound city to someone else. The first city manager in Edgewater, Stalf received an award for 10 years of service at a July city council meeting and announced he would be leaving his post in January 2020. However, after an Aug. 6 city council executive session, Stalf’s effective retirement was announced as Friday, Aug. 9, said Mayor Laura Keegan. “It was for H.J.’s reasons and because it’s a personnel matter, I can’t say any more,” Keegan said by phone. “These things happen quickly sometimes.” Keegan said the council had already been looking at a process to find a new city manager. Deputy City Manager Dan Maples was named interim city manager and Keegan said the city would be in “very good Continued on page 2

H.J. STALF’S 10-YEAR TENURE AS EDGEWATER’S FIRST CITY MANAGER ended when he formally retired on Friday, Aug. 9. His position will be temporarily ﬁlled by Deputy City Manager Dan Maples until the city council begins a process to ﬁll the position. PHOTO BY MIKE MCKIBBIN.

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – ngazette.com

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HJ Stalf

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hands” with Maples. He has been with the city for around 10 years, the last two to three as deputy city manager, she added.

Falling Off The City-Manager Wagon

Stalf, who could not be reached for comment on the change in retirement dates, said in an earlier interview that his background and experience in Colorado prepared him for his position in Edgewater. Stalf, 67, grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, and earned college degrees at the University of Cincinnati. His Colorado stops included Aspen, Crested Butte, Grand Junction, the Denver Regional Council of Governments, Denver International Film Festival and Edgewater. Not all those stops were as a city manager, however. “I told people I was a recovering city manager for 10 years but I fell off the wagon” to take the Edgewater position, Stalf said. “But all those other jobs set me up well for this one. I decided I wanted to be a city manager again and this is where I came.” Another factor that drew him to Edgewater was “I like smaller communities and the metro Denver area,” Stalf added. Ten years ago, Edgewater was moving from a strong mayor-led city government system to one led by the city manager. “It was a huge challenge because they needed professional management,” Stalf recalled. “The first few years were pretty rough because we had to take a lot of things apart and put them back together.” Stalf said it took about five years to get everything running efficiently. “We rebuilt the water and sewer systems, installed meters and had to set new rates,” he added. “And we started a recycling program to go with our trash service. They hadn’t raised trash rates in 10 years, so that raised concerns.” Keegan noted in an email she was a council member and served on the city manager hiring committee. She recalled the city formally changed its government structure in November 2008 and Stalf started with the city at the end of June 2009. The reasons Stalf was hired were: “His strong confidence in his ability to be a part of our unique community to get it back on track financially,” Keegan wrote. “H.J. had a background and much experience as a city manager in other small cities and was adept in managing positive growth and development. H.J. had a strong history in the inclusion of the arts and knew their importance in communities. He had a good sense of humor!” Keegan also noted Stalf understood municipal budgeting, “something that was a critical part for becoming the city manager here.” Stalf said his approach as city manager was to listen to ideas, run a tight ship financially and “don’t say yes to everything, even if the money is there.”

Marijuana Money Funds Projects

Stalf said revenue from the city’s recreational cannabis retail licenses and sales tax made most of the improvement projects possible. “He worked with council so that when the marijuana businesses were legally allowed here, the city of Edgewater was fully prepared,” Keegan continued.

Other accomplishments included paving all the streets in Edgewater and building the new Edgewater Civic Center and Jeffco library branch. “We worked for eight years to get the library to locate with the civic center,” Stalf said. “And the fitness center (also in the civic center building) has been more than I hoped for. It’s really become a community center.” Stalf added the building cost was within its budget and the city is in a good financial position to pay off its debt service in 20 years. General obligation bonds will be paid off in 2020, he noted, providing $40,000 a year to help pay off around half the debt service on the civic center. “I try not to portray this building as built with cannabis money, and in fact, our sales tax revenue from those stores has been flat for a while,” Stalf said. “City council thought it was the right thing to (allow cannabisrelated businesses) and we’ve never had any real problems.” Cannabis funds also helped Edgewater purchase police cars and computer systems and create a healthy reserve fund. “I think we have enough to get through three or four years of a down economy, whenever that might be,” Stalf said. “We’re small and can be nimble in our approach to those types of things compared to some larger communities, too.” Keegan also noted getting Edgewater on stable financial ground helped lead to the long-sought civic center. “After seeing that our infrastructure needs were met because of the thriving economy in Edgewater, and with solid funds from the marijuana industry taxes and numerous stable businesses, he was able to put together the decades-long search for how and where to build a new civic center,” she wrote. “That center now houses the city’s police department and city offices as well as the new state-of-the-art library and the recreation center and indoor sports courts. He has been instrumental in finding/ attracting unique and quality (businesses) as city-owned properties became available for redevelopment.” Stalf worked on the sale of city-owned property at West 25th and Gray streets and West 24th Street and Sheridan Boulevard to get the buildings back on the city tax rolls, along with the redevelopment of the West 20th Avenue and Depew Street site. The Edgewater Marketplace, scheduled to open in September, includes retail renovation and development of over 76,000 square feet of commercial space, including a food hall operated by various food truck vendors, a brewery, large bar and central seating in the former King Soopers building. Keegan praised Stalf for working diligently for years to find the right development opportunities for the property. She also noted four police chiefs were employed by the city during the 10 years Stalf was city manager. “He was here for all the transitions of our volunteer fire department when we went with (the) Wheat Ridge Fire Protection District and then with (the) West Metro Fire District.” Most days, Stalf bicycled three miles to his office from his downtown Denver home, where he and his wife planned to remain. “I’ve really enjoyed this community, it’s been a very rewarding time and I feel good about what we’ve accomplished,” Stalf said. “That makes it easier to say goodbye.”

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EDGEWATER MAYOR A Thank You To Local Heroes County are offering residents home repairs and modifications at no cost. These services are available to income-eligible dgewater is proud to recognize the heroic seniors, residents with disabilities and efforts of our own Edgewater Police other qualifying families in unincorporated Department, as well as Mountain View Police Jefferson County and the cities of Golden, Department, Lakeside Police Department, Mountain View, Edgewater and Wheat Wheat Ridge Police Department, Victim Ridge. Some of these repairs are: electrical Outreach Information, Jefferson County and plumbing repairs; Combined SWAT Team, installation of wheelchair Jefferson County Bomb Squad, ramps and other accessibility Jefferson County Negotiations improvements; installation Team, Jefferson County Drone of safety bars, stairlifts and Team, Jefferson County Robot accessible showers/bathtubs; Operators, Jefferson County repair or replacement of Combined Forensics Unit, home heating systems, water Denver SWAT Team, Denver heaters; exterior house painting District 1 Commander, Lakewood and external home repairs. Police Department, West Metro For more information about SWAT Team, Arvada Police Brothers Redevelopment, Department, Golden Police Inc.’s Home Modification and Department, Greenwood Village Laura Keegan Repair Program, email hmr@ Police Department, Colorado's brothersredevelopment.org, or visit www. Urban Area Security Initiative, Jefferson brothersredevelopment.org. County District Attorney’s Office, Jefferson Presented at our last council meeting County Critical Incident Response Team was a program being introduced to pair and Rocky Mountain Police Chaplain. up senior homeowners 55 and older with Last month all of the above were home seekers. The home-sharing program instrumental in ending a standoff situation can help provide assistance with daily that ended in the best possible way — no chores and help with income by sharing casualties. What an amazing team came expenses. It also builds friendships and together to protect and ensure our safety. companionship. More information: Thank you. Thank you, too, to the numerous www.sunshinehomeshare.org, alison@ businesses and citizens that helped during sunshinehomeshare.org. this ordeal. To the incredibly resilient Last, I share the retirement news of City neighbors who were involved in this incident, Manager HJ Stalf, who began his retirement we wish you a speedy recovery from this this month. We wish HJ, whose 10 years of trauma. All of council and me are here for service was celebrated in July, the very best. you if you need any further assistance. We He has been instrumental in the amazing have tried to honor your needed privacy, but achievements made since he was hired. please, but don’t hesitate to reach out to us. As council moves forward to select a Commander Scott Fowle, whose career new city manager, Deputy City Manager spanned 35 years, 27 with the EPD, retired Dan Maples has taken on the role. Dan has on July 7. He was honored at the July 30 been with the city for 10 years and was HJ’s council meeting. We wish him great success right hand. and happiness in his retirement. Contact Edgewater Mayor Laura Brothers Redevelopment and Jefferson

n By

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EDGEWATER CITY COUNCIL Back To School, Back To The Comprehensive Plan activities, and meet children that live in and near Edgewater. While they’re nervous, they’re also very t’s hard to believe that it’s that time of year excited to meet new friends. Bonus: our again – back to school! Maybe it’s because son’s classroom is right across from the May masqueraded as February this year, but principal’s office – perfect location for a summer went by way too quickly (again). rambunctious boy. We’ve never really had much On a different note, as of a discussion of where our kids we move into fall, Edgewater would attend school, it just kind will be presenting the draft of fell in our lap. All of that has 2020 Comprehensive Plan. This changed for this year. plan is a refresh of the 2013 We’ve lived in Edgewater Comprehensive Plan, which since 2007 and had a brief hiatus outlined a vision and goals for out of state for two years. When Edgewater based on resident we moved back into our house in input and feedback. Edgewater in 2011, our daughter The 2020 Plan process had reached preschool age. involved several community Finding an affordable, nearby engagement sessions, held in preschool was difficult, but we Kara Swanson May and June, which focused on happened to find one that served establishing peoples’ visions for the city, as children from preschool through eighth well as revisiting the 2013 goals and adding grade. new goals for the city. The sessions were a By the time our son was ready for great way to hear from residents and get to preschool, it was just easier to have know more of our neighbors. them both in the same school instead of Council and Planning and Zoning (P&Z) sending our daughter to the neighborhood Commission have been working with city elementary school. Now that the kids are staff to provide feedback on the draft plan headed into first and fourth grades, we’ve before it is presented at a public hearing at decided it’s time for a change. In addition to the P&Z Commission meeting on Aug. 18. serving on city council, we wanted our family There will be additional opportunities for to be more integrated into the community, public input at the P&Z meeting and future including its schools. council meetings this year. We met with the staff at Edgewater We’re excited to receive feedback on the Elementary and the kids took a tour of the plan and hope to have it wrapped up before school earlier this year. They fell in love with the end of the year! the amazing murals around the school and Contact Edgewater council member that it’s so much closer to home. They will Kara Swanson at kswanson@edgewaterhave an opportunity to experience a diverse co.com or 303-378-9237. student body, participate in enrichment n By

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A Peek Inside The Little Man Ice Cream Factory n By

Sally Griffin

s far as my family is concerned there is no better way to end a summer day than going for ice cream. I have found a new place to do that thanks to the Little Man Ice Cream Factory. Those of you living in the Sloan’s Lake and West Colfax areas are particularly lucky, because this is right down the street from you. Located on the north side of Colfax between Utica and Tennyson streets, Little Man Ice Cream has turned an old storefront into an interactive, familyfriendly experience including a tasting room, two glass-front kitchens making ice cream and baked goods, an entertainment stage, a hand-made wooden slide for kids, eclectic art work, and, of course, a counter to buy award-winning ice cream in many different forms. The state-of-the-art production kitchen produces over 7,000 gallons of ice cream per week. This triples the capacity of the former Little Man Ice Cream kitchen. This kitchen will help supply the expanding number of Little Man Ice Cream shops and wholesale customers. The 6,000-square-foot space is designed with cylinder-shaped features to make you feel like you are in the middle of a very large ice cream machine. It also has factory features like exposed pipes and brickwork with industrial-style lighting. The bakery and “Spin Space” (where the ice cream is churned) give everyone an inside view of how ice cream is made. When I was there, I spotted fresh peaches being prepared as part of a new batch of ice cream (and I love peach ice cream). After you watch the ice cream being made, you can move across the room to order from the circular “Flight Deck.” There is a changing menu that is announced with engaging signs hand painted by local artists. There also are “Factory Specials,” including plated desserts and experimental ice cream

flavors. To take advantage of the 16 flavors a day, you can get a “Factory Flight” with three to five scoops with specialty toppings. If you want to share, there is the “Super Duper Big Man Scooper.” This is a $50 option designed to serve up to 10 people. (Although, it is rumored that there are some extreme ice-cream lovers who have consumed this treat single-handedly.) When I was there, the featured flavors included some of the brand’s best-sellers and exclusive shop flavors such as Salted Oreo, Sweet-Cooie’s Lemon Meringue Pie (taken from the nickname for the owner’s mother), Old Town Churn’s Matcha Honey (made with Matcha and iIndulge wildflower honey), and the Constellation’s Turbulence (with vanilla, chocolate charcoal and marshmallow swirls resembling a stormy sky). You can also choose Carrot Cake or Vegan Banana Brulee. Should the Flight Deck run out of a flavor or topping, there is a conveyor belt with ice cream buckets that, to the delight of the children and not a few adults, can deliver the goods over their heads from the kitchen to the counter. If you want to supply your freezer, there are glass-fronted refrigeration units with ice cream in pints or gallons, ice cream cakes and ice cream pies. After you get your ice cream, there are moveable tables and stools. There is enough seating for almost 160 people. You can wander over to an interesting wall mural behind the Flight Deck that depicts how the ice cream is made and visually describes each of the unique stores operated by Little Man Ice Cream. On the side of Spin Space is a stairway. At the top of the stairs is an interactive art installation for children to play with. Then, when they want to return to their parents, there is a wooden, curved slide. This slide, handmade by the owner, Paul Tamburello, is a work of art by itself. To the right as you enter is a stage. On the Free Root Beer Floats night, when over 200 floats were enjoyed, there was a family

LITTLE MAN ICE CREAM’S CHANGING MENU is announced with engaging signs that are hand-painted by local artists. PHOTO BY SALLY GRIFFIN. movie. The stage can also accommodate the “swing music bands” for which Little Man Ice Cream is known. The area can be rented for special events. On opening night, customers were urged to come dressed as factory workers in order to receive a golden ticket for buy-one-get-one ice cream and a chance to win an ice cream making party for 20 people. People got out their hard hats, tool belts and jumpsuits to enjoy live music, to win prizes and, of course, to sample their choice of ice cream. In case you haven’t guessed by now, Little Man Ice Cream is dedicated to being a community hub in all the communities where there are Little Man Ice Cream shops. In addition to music and swing dancing there are game nights ranging from Bingo to Trivia and season celebrations. They work with schools to have kid-friendly events. They are the site for fund raising events. They can host private ice cream-

making parties. They can handle private parties, birthday parties and, even, sitdown dinners. You can even get married at the factory if you want. In fact, the Polish Ambassador had his birthday party at the Little Man Ice Cream Factory. Little Man Ice Cream believes that businesses should make a difference. They even support communities outside of ours. They have a Scoop for Scoop program, which donates one scoop of rice, beans or other essentials to a community in need anywhere in the world. It makes your tummy feel good knowing that every scoop (or two) that you have supports communities in nine countries. Talk about comfort food! For an ice cream adventure, Little Man Ice Cream offers the “Passport to Happiness.” This gives you a chance to win free ice cream for a year. Just get your Continued on page 15

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – ngazette.com

ASK THE EXPERT Hot Dogs And Broken Windows • You use no more force than you believe is reasonably necessary. Additionally, you must remain “with the ecently I was asked if it was okay to at-risk a person or animal, reasonably close break into a hot vehicle to rescue a to the vehicle, until a law enforcement officer, dying dog when clearly the owner was emergency medical provider, animal control nowhere around. officer, or other first responder arrives at the The answer is a little complicated, but scene.” If you must leave the scene essentially, if that is the only before the owner or operator option available to rescue the returns or any of the people pet, and you follow a specific list listed above return, you must of prerequisites, then you are place a notice on the windshield immune from civil and criminal of the vehicle that includes your liability for the property damage name/contact information and caused from forcefully entering name/contact information of a locked vehicle to rescue at-risk the “location, if any, to which the persons or animals (dogs and person rendering assistance took cats only, sorry, no livestock). the at-risk person or animal when This immunity is stated in he or she left the scene;” and Colorado Revised Statute §13“Contact law enforcement, animal 21-108.4. Under the statute, the Jimmy Vigil control, or other first responder prerequisites are: to advise them of his or her name and contact • Vehicle is not a law enforcement information, that he or she is leaving the scene, vehicle. and the name and contact information of the • The at-risk person or animal is present location, if any, to which the person rendering in the vehicle, you have a reasonable belief assistance is taking the at-risk person or that it is in imminent danger of death or animal.” (See Colorado Revised Statute §13-21suffering serious bodily injury. 108.4.) • The vehicle is locked, and forcible It’s hard to believe that people actually leave entry is necessary. their pets or children in the cars unattended • You make reasonable efforts to locate during hot summer months (or cold winter the owner/operator of the vehicle, and you days for that matter) but sadly, it happens. It is document the color, make, model, license good to know that there are remedies that allow plate number and location of the vehicle, you to act to protect the helpless. and, Disclaimer: This article is provided as a • You actually contact a local law general overview of a statute and is not meant enforcement agency (fire department, to be considered legal advice and is not meant animal control, or a 911 operator) prior to be speciﬁc to your claim, case or situation. to forcible entering the vehicle and you Each case is diﬀerent. If you do need legal do not “interfere with, hinder, or fail to advice, please call an attorney. obey a lawful order of any person duly Jimmy Vigil is an attorney at Vigil & Alempowered with policy authority or other ford, PLLC located in Edgewater. He can first responder duties who is discharging be reached at 303-756-9935. Visit www. or apparently discharging his or her duties” vandalaw.com. and

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handles. There are unique luggage racks running the full length of both sides of the car. It is lit with Edison light bulbs above each seat. Even the advertisements above the windows are from a long by-gone era. The current track that it is on runs for less than a thousand feet and back, but it was worth waiting in line to ride. The car only holds about 50 people and families with little kids and oldsters reliving old days waited patiently in long lines to make the trip. Unfortunately, the Car No. 25 Open House is only offered one day a year. The car is stored at the Denver Federal Center and the tracks are from World War II when trolleys were used to transport to and from the artillery stores at the Federal Center. The City of Lakewood owns the car and there is interest in moving it to a more

accessible spot. But that would require a very big budget, because the car must be transported to the new spot, there must be tracks laid in order for rides to be given and there must be adequate storage for the car and for the work tools and supplies need to keep it in top-notch shape. Plus, there need to be enough volunteers available to staff all the rides. So, for now the car sits safely at the Denver Federal Center and comes out once a year to great pomp and a fair atmosphere. This year’s open house had tents manned by different groups, and toy trains set up for the kids to play with. There were groups selling hot dogs and beverages. There were other groups demonstrating Square Dancing. Later in the day, the Queen City Jazz Band performed. There were posters providing information about many of the stops on the historic interurban route. All in all, this is an event worth attending and it is worth waiting in line to get your ticket punched by the conductor for a short ride back into history.

ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Respite Care Available To Families Of Disabled Children n By

Ken Lutes

espite care gives parents a chance to have a date night,” says Bryan Smock, co-director of Megan’s Place, a respite care center at 6175 W. 38th Ave., in Wheat Ridge. Megan’s Place has blossomed into the singular Denver-area facility providing respite care to families with children with any kind of disability. Respite care “gives parents time to focus on their other kids,” said Smock’s codirector wife Kristin Smock. “Sometimes that’s a huge need — when one child gets 90 percent of the attention, you might need to attend another child’s baseball game on a Saturday without chasing after another child. “There are other resources for families with needs for disabled children — Easter Seals provides week-long camps; Camp PaHa, in Lakewood, does a day camp for eight-weeks of the summer; and there are disability-specific programs such as ones that deal specifically with autism — but as far as options for overnights or regular day care, we’re really the only organization that will deal with any developmental disability.” Megan’s Place will take in kids aged 3-18 with cerebral palsy, down syndrome, autism, genetic disorders, Rett syndrome, Batten disease and more. The center works with a registered nurse who oversees all medical training. All staff members have CPR first aid training. Many have worked with the nurse to become qualified to administer medications, “and to deal with some of the more medical things, like seizures, which other (organizations) may shy away from,” said Kristin. Megan’s Place has a much lower staffto-child ratio than other care centers whose ratio may be as much as 1-20, according to Kristin. “We’re a max of one staff person for every three kids. We also try to provide enough activities with one-on-one attention

“

and interaction so that any of our kids can do anything.” “We do a lot of field trips,” said Bryan. “Field trips keep kids from getting bored, which can eliminate negative behavior. We took some kids water skiing earlier this week. One of our kids was in a wheel chair and was fitted with a special ski that allowed him to ski. He had a blast, and his parents were thrilled that he was able to do that.” Kristin added they take kids to a swimming pool where they can go down a water slide; kids with limited mobility can enjoy a trampoline park. “If you were to come observe us on one of our field trips, I think people would be very surprised to see what we can get our kids to do. We do a ton of sports activities — rock climbing, recently — and for the very first time, this year we are taking a group of kids for a sleep-away camp in the mountains.” In house, the staff provides a variety of arts and crafts, story time, sensory activities and playing outside. Megan’s Place works with more than 100 families. Daily, it serves about 25 kids during the summer, about 15 during the school year and 10-15 on weekends. It is geared to accommodate the needs of parents, which means providing service at any time of the day or night. “We’re pretty much available 24/7 as long as we can (schedule and) staff it,” said Bryan. “This week, for example, most kids will be gone by 6:30. Tonight we have three kids doing overnights.” There are overnight options for when parents might want to go camping or perhaps just need to get a good night’s sleep. “Some of our kids don’t sleep well at all,” said Kristin. An idea fostered by Bryan, Megan’s Place was founded in 2014. “I worked at a place just like this in Fort Collins, when I was in college 20 years ago. When I worked there, I thought, ‘What a great job — I get paid to work with kids!’ The

KRISTIN SMOCK, CO-DIRECTOR OF respite care center Megan’s Place, stands near the center’s new sign at 6175 W. 38th Ave., in Wheat Ridge. PHOTO BY KEN LUTES.

way those kids touched my heart, that led me to a career in special education. Megan’s Place was named after Megan Rogers, a child Bryan worked with in Fort Collins. She had Rett Syndrome, a degenerative disease, and passed away in 2006 at the age of 10. “Her parents are happy that their daughter’s legacy lives on,” he said. Volunteers are welcome at Megan’s

Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

Place. “We had one gentleman who stayed with us for about year,” said Kristin. “He and one of our boys created a great relationship. This kiddo could be somewhat challenging and got so excited when the man came — he had complete one-on-one attention to play games.” Other than volunteers and regular personnel, the center sometimes brings in interns from Metro State University and Jefferson County high schools. “We work closely with Jefferson County Schools,” said Kristin. “They will even transport kids to us from some schools, which is great. And we attend resource fairs with their special education departments.” Megan’s Place works with local community centered boards (CCB). A CCB’s role is to help people with disabilities find resources. “They send out proposals for care, and we respond to those as we have space open. But a lot of the way people learn about us is through word of mouth within the communities and parent groups,” she said. The center is partnered with Infinity Foundation (infinitycolorado.org), a 501(c)(3) charity that works with other organizations that help kids and adults with special needs. “We specifically have a campaign on Infinity for one of our kids who lost his summer funding,” said Kristin. “We’ll have another campaign in the fall for one of our young ladies whose family has a hard time affording it.” Visit MegansPlaceLLC.org for more information and to donate.

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Lakewood Growth Continued from page 1

or more units. The issued passed by a 53 percent to 47 percent margin. Just under 36 percent of the city’s 99,638 registered voters returned their mail-in ballots. The measure defined allocation as a right to apply for a building permit per dwelling unit but not a guarantee of getting a permit approved by the city. It also created several “pools” of allocations, with an affordable housing pool for residential projects for households earning up to 120 percent of the area median income, and designating a single allocation period for such projects of Jan. 1 through May 31 of each year. “That timing could mean we would have no way to apply for a permit and get an allocation without low-income tax credits,” Fischer said. Fischer said Metro West might develop in what the initiative listed as “blighted” areas, but was unsure if an allocation would still be needed for projects of 40 or more dwelling units. “We’re now building our eighth lowincome tax credit affordable housing project

in the city,” she added. “We’re seen as a very strong developer of these projects because they are well built, we keep clean records and we’re good property managers so there are no problems.” The 15-year-old non-profit agency manages 1,407 dwelling units and has around 9,000 people on a waiting list, Fischer said. A recently opened 152-unit project had 3,000 applicants, she noted. “I know we won’t meet all the need that’s out there in Lakewood under this new system in my lifetime,” Fischer stated. Metro West is not the only affordable housing developer in Lakewood, she said, but many others are for-profit developers that only add a few such units to marketrate projects. And low-income tax credits require all projects to be affordable forever, while for-profit developers are not always held to that designation if they sell their project. “We’ve added hundreds of millions of dollars worth of assets to the community and these projects mean a tremendous amount to workers who can’t afford to live in anything else,” Fischer said. “Then there are seniors on Social Security, the disabled. It just saddens me and this only makes it more difficult.”

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Clearing Up A Gray Area

A three-hour discussion about the first rule needed to implement the new system occurred at a July 15 special city council meeting. City Attorney Tim Cox said the initiative allows the council to develop rules to implement the new process. Public Works Director Jay Hutchison noted the effective date of the initiative was July 12, the day election results were certified by the Jefferson County Clerk and Recorders office. Hutchison said applications submitted before July 12 will be handled under the city’s current process, although projects of 40 or more units that are not approved before the end of this year are in a gray area. Councilman David Skilling proposed a resolution that called for building permit applications submitted by July 12 to continue through the city process without going through the allocation process as long as the permit is approved and signed before the end of 2019. Planning Director Travis Parker estimated up to 150 single-family homes might have building permits and one project of more than 40 units are ready to submit a building permit application before the end of the year. Several developers told the council they were frustrated. Scott Watkins is a partner in the West Line Village project, which calls for 138 “attainably-priced” rowhomes near the Sheridan RTD light rail station. He said they were a few weeks away from submitting a

building permit application. “Just to get to this point has cost us millions,” Watkins said. “To get to the fiveyard line and now be told we might have to go to the back of the line and start over is frustrating. When a business does everything it’s asked to do by the city over a period of years and then be told at the last minute that you can’t move forward sends the wrong message.” Councilwoman Ramey Johnson felt it was the intent of the voters who approved the initiative to get it in place in a timely matter. “I’m not sure five months that we would have (with Skilling’s plan) reflects that intent,” she said. “And the elephant in the room is language in the initiative that says council can change the language in six months. So if we wait until January to implement this, there could be drastic changes shortly after implementation.” The council approved Skilling’s proposal on an 8-3 vote, with Johnson, Charley Able and Pete Roybal opposed. City Manager Kathy Hodgson noted an August study session will focus on several other issues related to the initiative, such as a definition of a “blighted” area.

Impacts Vary, Many Uncertain

Carrie Makarewicz, an assistant professor in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver, said the allocation process spelled out in Lakewood’s initiative could be “messy.” However, she said it may hard to attribute a “noticeable” change in Lakewood’s growth due to the initiative. “I think you might be looking at about half as many permits” compared to the last several years, Makarewicz said. “It’s also likely to drive up the prices of land that could be developed. You might not see a drop in lots being developed, but there could be a decrease in the number of units built on those lots to 39 or fewer so they can avoid getting the council’s OK” with an allocation. Likewise, lots that might have been developed as smaller projects could see denser 39-unit development, Makarewicz noted. The initiative could cut new housingrelated construction traffic, but probably won’t affect overall traffic numbers, Makarewicz added. Over the long term, traffic might even increase due to developers taking their projects outside the city to surrounding communities and Jefferson County. “More single-family developers will need to find lots in areas already zoned for new homes in the county or elsewhere,” she said. “So there could be more pressure in west Denver and into the city of Denver, too. But if you are surrounded by growth, you’re going to see some impacts from pressures inside and outside the city.” The city could also see a drop in revenue from fewer permit applications and associated fees, she said. “There’s also the loss of construction jobs and subcontractors who may not buy supplies in the city,” Makarewicz added. “I think there’s a lot more research needed in Lakewood and surrounding areas before we can say for certain what might happen.”

ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Alamo Drafthouse Welcomes Blissfest333 Film Festival

NEIGHBORHOOD ARTS New Art Spaces For Kanon Collective And Core Art n By

Nancy Hahn

he 40 West Art District has galleries full of creative work by stunning artists. Every gallery is different with its own personality. Each has work to enjoy, discuss, wonder about, and even take home. Now we have even more great artists and creative work to oooh and aaah over: Core Art and Kanon Collective are finally in their new home in the Art Hub at 6851 W. Colfax in the former Pasternack’s. The effort to make that happen sounds much like the mailman’s refrain. Neither snow nor rain nor gloom of night...nor building inspections, nor permits, nor needed grants, nor floods stopped the opening of Kanon Collective’s and Core’s new art spaces. Both bring new artists to the district and we will all love that. There is even space for guest artist exhibits in the lobby. The Art Hub will showcase exhibits from Jonny Barber’s Colfax Museum, also. Jonny Barber has an amazing collection of memorabilia about the long history of Colfax Avenue. He has looked for a long time for a space to show his collection. Now the museum has its own space. Pasternack’s Art Hub even has a large backyard where some of the large pieces, like neon signs, can be displayed. The old sign from Davies Chuck Wagon Diner is a fabulous piece of history, for example, but too huge for an indoor display. Kanon Collective is enjoying their new art district, although it is smaller than the Santa Fe art district they moved from.

“We are constantly amazed at the support we receive and how they’ve made us part of their family,” they wrote. Core Art also moved from the Santa Fe art district and was excited to see that Meow Wolf will be “just a hop, skip, and a jump east of us on West Colfax.” Meow Wolf, an art company that creates multimedia, interactive experiences, is building a new facility just off of Colfax and close to Elitch Gardens, where they had already created an interactive exhibit. Meow Wolf describes their work as a combination of “jungle gym, haunted house, children’s museum, and immersive art exhibit,” creating fictional worlds to explore. While the new six-story Meow Wolf facility, rising 30 feet above Interstate 25, will not open until 2020, you can buy tickets online now at meowwolf. com. They expect to spend the money to hire from 150 to 300 artists and craft people.

Mark Your Calendar For 40 West Arts’ Annual Fundraising Gala

40 West Arts hosts one major fundraising gala a year, and this year it is “Colfax Curiosities: A Pop-Up Cocktail Party.” It is certain to delight the senses while also giving the community an awesome opportunity to help the district. So mark your calendars for Saturday, Oct. 12, from 6 to 9:30 p.m., in the showroom of Continued on page 11

n By

Nancy Hahn

lissfest333 International Film Festival has provided a showcase for international film-makers of all genres since 1999. The short films, often between one and 20 minutes in length, provide a way for film-makers to show their unique ideas, style, and skills. This year the films will be shown at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema on Sloans Lake, 4255 W. Colfax Ave. The Alamo Drafthouse is much loved by its patrons. Alamo Drafthouse serves your meal, drinks, and the movie all while you are in one comfortable seat. No more uncomfortable movie seats. No awkward shuffling past others while carrying a large drink and a bag of popcorn. Because customers enjoy this relaxed arrangement so very much, Alamo Drafthouse has been called ‘The Coolest Theater in the World’ by Wired Magazine and ‘The Best Theater Ever’ by Time Magazine. Horror films, experimental films, comedies, animation, computer graphics, live action, music videos, and more are all part of the festival. Each year the money raised by the festival is donated to a charity. Tickets are available at http:// filmfreeway.com/Blissfest333/tickets, but they are going very, very quickly. On Aug. 24, the festival begins at 2 p.m. with the Denver premier of the ”Jurassic Thunder.” The movie will be followed at 4 p.m. by a question and answer period. Then there will be an After Party at the Barfly. On Aug. 25, the day begins with the Denver premier of “Rage of the Mummy” and “HUSH Little Baby.” The showing of many, many international, local, and experimental films of all kinds continues throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The films are of every genre and range

in length from less than two minutes to 20 minutes. The day ends, again, with a question and answer period and an After Party at the Barfly. There will be an awards ceremony, also. Local filmmakers will then meet with a special judge of their films, Ed Kramer, the “Computer Graphics Wizard of Hollywood.” Each year the Blissfest333 raises money for charitable organizations. This year the money being donated will go to the historic Elitch Theatre. Mary Elitch Long was the founder of Elitch’s Zoological Garden, the first zoo in Denver. She was best known for her love of children and play. described in her biography, “First Lady of Fun,” by Deborah B. Faulkner. The donation will be used for children’s activities and to restore the theatre at Elitch Gardens.

40 West Continued from page 11

Prestige Imports for an evening of drinks, food, art performances, silent and live auction and – of course – luxury cars. Patrons will see curious art acts that will pop-up right in the middle of the crowd (think burlesque and aerial acts) alongside specialty drinks, light bites, an expansive silent auction and more. If 40 West Arts District and the work it does is important to you, this is your chance to help. Tickets are only $35 and include one drink coupon, and sponsorship packages start at $350, with six tickets to the event included. Sip cocktails, look at luxury cars, see burlesque artists perform in the middle of the showroom and shop the silent auction with tons of West Colfax local items and packages. Learn more, buy your tickets, and sponsor the event here: 40westarts.org/riot

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 – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – ngazette.com

UNDER THE DOME Session Overview: 120 Productive Days At The State Capitol strategy to improve children’s academic and life success. Under this bill, starting this fall, Jeffco’s youngest learners attending n May, I wrapped up my first 120public schools will have access to full-day day legislative session as your state kindergarten at no cost to their parents, representative for House District 24. We which also frees up thousands of additional passed over 400 bills this year focused preschool slots. This year, the on expanding opportunity, legislature also increased per investing in our future, and pupil funding by $357 per protecting the Colorado way of student on average through life – and I’m proud to say that 95 what was lauded as the one of percent of them had bipartisan the best school finance acts in support at the legislature. I recent memory. want you to know about some Maintaining strong, of the important issues to our resilient families is also hugely community that I supported at important to me. I was proud the legislature in 2019. to be the prime sponsor to two Almost every day in my important bills supporting community I talk to people Colorado’s families: The Foster who are struggling or who love Monica Duran Youth Sibling Bill Of Rights someone who is struggling with strongly emphasizes the importance of the their mental health. That’s why I was proud sibling relationship to youth in foster care to support a bill that is considered one of by outlining protections that siblings should the most impactful pieces of legislation to receive, such as placing siblings together and address our mental health crisis, HB19having regular contact and communication. 1269. Signed by Governor Polis, this new I was also proud to sponsor a bill that will law holds insurers accountable to current now ensure dental services are covered for state and federal parity laws that require pregnant women who are insured by the treating mental health and addiction equal Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+), a public to physical health care. This will encourage low-cost health insurance for children and patient use of mental health services and pregnant women. boost screening for mental health disorders You can read more about the incredible in other areas of care. work we accomplished at the legislature First and foremost, I’m the proud here. I’m proud to represent you and grandmother of four grandchildren. Public everyone in our community at the state education is hugely important to me as I legislature. What would you like to see me know it is for my community. Quality public work on next session? Please drop me a education is paramount in ensuring that line at monica.duran.house@state.co.us or our students are prepared to succeed for monicaduran.com. whichever path they choose to follow in life. Contact Colorado House District 24 It was a historic session for public Representative Monica Duran at 303-866education as the legislature passed free 5522 or monica.duran.house@state.co.us. full-day kindergarten, a research-proven n By

Monica Duran

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS Staying Safe (And Sane) Around Local Wildlife n By

Meghan Godby

hether you're hiking, camping or taking a scenic drive, you're bound to run into one of our state's 960 species of wildlife. With human development on the rise, however, these animals are running out of places to go. Thirty-thousand acres of land are lost each year, making encounters with these critters increasingly common. To help educate the public on ways to safely co-exist with our animal friends, an Urban Wildlife Symposium was held at the Jefferson County Open Space Building on July 16. Dozens of neighbors gathered to learn more about the fascinating wildlife in our parks and backyards, many interested in ways to keep themselves and their homes safe. Over three hours, wildlife experts gave presentations covering everything from preventing rattlesnake bites to keeping those pesky rabbits out of your garden. When it comes to enjoying the Colorado outdoors, there are two animals of particular concern: rattlesnakes and coyotes. We don't want to live our lives in fear, but it's essential to know how to respond if you are bitten or find yourself in a dangerous situation. "Time is tissue when it comes to a rattlesnake bite," said Mary Ann Bonnell, Visitor Services Manager for Jefferson County Open Space. The important thing is to "mitigate risk and exposure." And how do we do that? Sometimes the best solution is the most obvious: stay on the trail. Rattlesnakes aren't seeking us out; they're merely protecting their territory. "We are not prey, so conflict usually comes from mistakes," Bonnell added.

Wearing appropriate footwear is essential; never wear open-toe shoes and make sure the shoes you choose cover your ankles. Leaving headphones at home will also help you be aware of your surroundings. If you see a snake, give them space and time to leave the trail. And if you are bitten? Stay calm, call 911, sit or lie flat, and minimize movement. Many factors affect how a person will respond to a rattlesnake bite (e.g., health, weight, age) but following these guidelines will give you the best chance of survival. And it's not just humans who need to exercise caution. Dogs, although they make great hiking partners, are also at risk. They may nose rattlesnakes on the edge of the trail, where they would otherwise be undisturbed. The biggest way to keep your dogs safe is to keep them on a leash. If your dog is bitten, stay calm, carry them to the trailhead and call an emergency vet. You'll want to call ahead to ensure the facility carries the antivenin needed to treat the bite. While coyote attacks are incredibly rare, their presence in our parks can make a lot of people nervous. Luckily, the threat they pose is minimal if you act carefully and remain aware of your surroundings. Although the media often portrays coyotes as eating trash and domestic animals, it is not as common as people think. Their primary diet is fruits and invertebrates in the summer and birds and mammals in the winter. If they do become aggressive towards domestic animals, it is more because of a perceived threat rather than them viewing the animal as food. Continued on page x

ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

FITNESS CORNER Stress 101: Eustress Vs. Distress more emergency) • heart rate decreases (telling the body it’s safe) tress is quite a buzzword these days. It • bronchial tubes contract (normal seems like almost everything is being breathing rate returns) attributed to stress. How can that be? • muscles relax (muscles can begin to Can stress truly be responsible for all the repair any damage done) afflictions we claim it is? Understanding the • stomach increase his movements and principles of stress and what is happening secretions (digestion can resume) within your body when you are stressed • saliva production can be a powerful facilitator of increases (digestion can resume) change. • urinary production You body has two modes: increases (there is time to Fight-or-Flight and Rest-andexcrete bodily waste) Digest. These modes are both Stress often gets a bad rap, hardwired in human genetics. but it is important to our survival, Fight-or-Flight (sympathetic and the health of our body. There nervous system) is an automatic is such a thing as positive stress physiological and psychological or eustress. This response is response that your body creates designed to be used for a short when it encounters a stressful duration and is beneficial. The event. You’ve probably felt this stress response activates because before: Abigail Ladd of stressful stimuli (like when a car • the adrenal gland produces begins to slip off the road) and you get a shot adrenaline, or epinephrine (the hormonal of cortisol (a stress hormone) and your brain messenger that causes this cascade of lights up like a Christmas tree. This produces changes in your body) the “rush” feeling that energizes and excites • heart rate increases (sounding the us. Even a stressful thought can activate your alarm for the rest of your body) stress response. • bronchial tubes dilate (allows more air When there is an imbalance and that to get to the lungs) alarm bell is left blaring, we run into chronic • muscles contract (prepping you for stress or distress and is caused by persistent action) or perpetual stress stimuli. It contributes • stomach decreases movements and to the development of diseases and health secretions (digestion is shut down) issues such as insomnia, depression, anxiety • saliva production decreases (again, and weight gain. digestion is shut down) Finding a balance of both stress and • decrease in urinary output (no time to relaxation is important to maintaining a stop and pee) happy, healthy body. For more information, Rest-and-Digest (parasympathetic connect with me on social media Instagram: nervous system) is an automatic response abigailladdcoach or check out my website: that your body creates when it relaxes. It abigailladdcoach.com. Learn more about is the sensation felt when you participate how we help people build healthy habits for in something you enjoy. The effects of this a happy life at feedyoursoulfitness.com. mode are more subtle: Abigail Ladd leads small group train • the adrenal gland ceases production of ing at Feed Your Soul Fitness. adrenaline (the alarm gets turned off - no

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WEST METRO FIRE South Canyon Fire, 25 Years Later: Lessons Learned n By

Ronda Scholting

wind-driven wildfire near Glenwood Springs took the lives of 14 firefighters in July of 1994. Known as the South Canyon Fire, the firefighters died on Storm King Mountain, overrun by flames that funneled through a drainage, and raced up a steep slope directly towards them. What happened on that day changed the way that wildfires are fought in Colorado and across the country. “It brought home the risks of the job for my family, who questioned whether firefighting was the right career choice,” said West Metro Fire Rescue Captain Brendan Finnegan. Finnegan was a 20-year-old volunteer firefighter for Lookout Mountain Fire (now Foothills Fire) at the time. He is now the Captain at West Metro’s Station 9 – home of the district’s wildland fire team. “South Canyon made the fire service take a hard look at how we were fighting wildland fires at that time, and the potential risk for the crews,” said Finnegan. The official investigation that followed the South Canyon Fire found that lack of communication, fire lookouts, safety zones and escape routes all played a role in the loss of life. Firefighters also had little access to timely weather information on that afternoon as the fire gained steam, pushed by a dry cold front that increased winds and fire activity. The investigation’s conclusion

prompted technical advances in fighting fire, from improvements in fire shelters – the protective small “mummy” bags that are potentially a last defense for fire crews from the flames – to improved communications. In 1994, some firefighters did not carry radios. Now, during an incident there is a unit dedicated to setting up and maintaining a radio communication system. And, fires have safety officers, responsible for assuring firefighter safety, with the authority to shut down operations in the event of unsafe conditions. “On a fire in West Metro’s district, or in any other district, the question is: Are there values at risk?” said Finnegan. “Are there lives at risk, is the fire threatening structures, watersheds or infrastructure? If the answer is no, we have to carefully re-evaluate our strategy and determine the best way to move forward.” One of the legacies of the South Canyon Fire is more scrutiny of the decision-making process and methods in battling wildland fires. And, there has been an emphasis placed on firefighter training, not only for firefighters who work directly on the fire line, but for those who lead them: the incident commander, operations section chief and division supervisor. “After South Canyon, a lot of things changed,” said Finnegan. “And the lessons we learned have saved lives.” Ronda Scholting is the Communications/Media Relations Specialist for West Metro Fire Rescue.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – ngazette.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING Elitch Theatre’s Children’s Day International Film Festival Returns For Second Year On Sept. 14 & 15 The second annual Historic Elitch Theatre Children’s Day International Film Festival will take place the weekend of Sept. 14 and 15 at The Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St., Denver. Presented in conjunction with Blissfest333, the International Youth Silent Film Festival, and The Bug Theatre, the event features unique, intelligent films from across the world for young audiences and their families from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Each day will bring three blocks of films with free workshops during intermissions. All screenings will take place inside The Bug Theatre. This year’s offerings will include screenings of “Dumbo” (2019), the 80th anniversary of “The Wizard of Oz” as well as internationally acclaimed films for children. The festival has joined the International Youth Silent Film Festival to screen films from around the world and films submitted to the Denver Regional Competition. These films are created by local youth filmmakers in honor of Thomas Edison, who showcased his first silent films in 1896 at the Historic Elitch Theatre. These screenings will take place Sunday, Sept. 15, starting at 1:45 p.m. Children’s Day reflects Mary Elitch’s core mission: to introduce the cultural arts to our youth, open their minds, stimulate their curiosity, and deepen their compassion and understanding. Films shown on Saturday are ideal for all ages, especially the younger children. Films featured on Sunday are ideal for ages 10 and up.

Adult tickets range from $10 to $50. Children 18 and younger are admitted free, but must be accompanied by an adult. A full schedule and tickets can be found at www.etfest.com/ﬁlmfestival

Volunteer For Lakewood’s Teen Court Lakewood’s Teen Court program is seeking volunteers for its upcoming school year from August through December. Teen Court is an educational tool for youth that enables them to actively participate in the justice system acting as defense attorneys, prosecutors, bailiffs and jury members. Contact Rachel Starry, Lakewood Probation Department, at racsta@lakewoodco.org or 303- 987-7413, to receive more information regarding the program and how to participate.

Mountainside Art Guild’s National Miniature Show At Lakewood Arts All September Lakewood Arts Gallery will host an opening reception of the Mountainside Art Guild's National Miniature Show, Friday, Sept. 6, from 5 to 9 p.m., at 6731 W. Colfax Ave. (next to Casa Bonita). The exhibition runs Aug. 28 through Sept. 26. Along with the miniatures, the opening reception will include art from the Developmental Disabilities Resource Center’s Art & Soul class on the community wall, a demo of live portrait sketching by Robyn Cochran-Ragland and live music by Americana Recycled. For more information, visit www.lakewoodarts.org or call 303-980-0625.

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Lakehouse Fitness Series on Sloan’s Lake Continues Through Summer The Lakehouse condominium community is partnering with FIT36 and Club Pilates to bring the Lakehouse Fitness Series on Sloan’s Lake to Sloan’s Lake Park (near the intersection of 17th Avenue and Stuart Street) on select Sundays throughout the summer and into fall. The free high-intensity interval training and mat Pilates classes are designed to promote an active lifestyle while providing stunning views of Sloan’s Lake, downtown Denver and the mountains. Classes will be offered Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. on Aug. 18, Sept. 8 and Sept. 22. The Lakehouse community is under construction with completion on track for later this year. It will include a 7,000-squarefoot Wellness Center with a fitness lab, yoga and meditation studio and community lounge, as well as a landscaped terrace with a 70-foot lap pool, a year-round hot tub, onsite urban farm, artwork, gardens and more. Its temporary sales office is located at 1565 Raleigh St. All class participants will receive a voucher redeemable for a free drink at Sloan’s Lake Tap & Burger, located just a block away from Lakehouse. Sign up soon because attendance is limited to 25 participants for each class. Visit www.lakehouse17.com for more information and to register.

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OASIS Seeks Volunteer Reading Tutors For September Training Session Oasis is seeking volunteer tutors for this year’s annual two-morning fall training – which typically fills up quickly – offered on Sept. 17 and 19, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For the last 27 years Oasis tutors – a group of dedicated, senior community members throughout the Jefferson County School District – have taken strides to change the lives of kindergarten through third grade students who come to school unprepared or unable to succeed in meeting the challenges in today’s fast-paced, complex learning environment. Oasis tutors are trained reading helpers who meet each week during the school year with their assigned student (or students) working on reading, writing and language development activities. A typical session is 30 to 45 minutes during the school day depending on each student’s needs and schedule. Tutors must complete a two-session training where they learn and practice preparing fun activities and strategies to help students engage in reading, vocabulary, and writing. Oasis will conduct a background check for all those who complete the training. Materials for working with students are provided free of charge. No teaching experience is necessary. Continued on page 15

ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

WHAT’S HAPPENING Continued from page 14

Tutors may request a school of their choice from a list of participating schools. Tutoring usually begins in early October so that teachers have time to evaluate and select students who will most benefit from this one-on-one support program. To sign up for training, email tutoringclover@gmail.com or jcgadd@hotmail. com; for more information, visit the national Oasis website at www.oasisnet.org and click on National Programs, then Intergenerational Tutoring.

Vaccination Of Kindergartners Is Critical To Keeping Measles Out Of Colorado, Say Local Health Officials In the midst of the largest measles outbreak in the U.S. in nearly three decades, public health officials representing Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson counties are calling on parents and caregivers to keep measles out of Colorado by making sure kindergartners are vaccinated before school starts. Colorado’s 2018-2019 rate for the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine among kindergartners was 87.4 percent, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), as quoted in a recent press release from Jefferson County. In the Denver metro region, the rate was 89.1 percent. Neither is high enough to protect communities from a measles outbreak. Kids need two doses of measles-

Great Outdoors Continued from page 12

Coyotes are competitive omnivores with surprising variation in behavior. Some can be bold and aggressive, while others are more shy and less likely to initiate an encounter with a person or pet. They often keep to themselves and can usually be observed from a safe distance. If you do find yourself in a confrontation, however, hazing is generally considered effective. Yell loudly, act big, and don't run (it could trigger prey reflex). When it comes to staying safe around any wild animal, merely giving the animal space and staying alert can go a long way. The best defense? "Your voice and body - you always have those with you," Bonnell explained. "Own your space and be the dominant critter." But what about the wildlife in your backyard? Foxes living under your porch, raccoons taking up residence in your chimney, squirrels nesting in an attic - these are problems plaguing homeowners on a regular basis. The best way to manage wildlife in your

containing vaccine, one at 12 to 15 months and a second at 4 to 6 years, to be protected. The second dose is required before kindergarten entry in Colorado. Kindergarten vaccination coverage rates for MMR for the 2018-2019 school year were 85 percent in Denver and 90.1 percent in Jefferson County. Elsewhere in the metro area, Adams was 94.1 percent, Arapahoe 90.5 percent and Douglas 86.4 percent. Measles can cause serious health complications like pneumonia and brain infection. In the U.S., one in four people diagnosed with measles is hospitalized. In preparation for kindergarten entry, parents should find their kid’s vaccination records and see if a vaccine is needed. Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) also has many resources to help parents and caregivers make informed choices about vaccinating their children: • SpreadTheVaxFacts.com guides people through information and misinformation about vaccines with advice from Colorado doctors who also are parents. • COVax4Kids.org helps people find out if their kids are eligible for low- or no-cost vaccines and helps them find a provider who gives them. • COVaxRecords.org lets people know how to request vaccination records for their children. • COVaxRates.org makes it easy for people to look up vaccination and exemption rates for schools and child care facilities in Colorado so they can make the best decision for their children. For more information about vaccinations or to make an appointment at your local health department, please call or visit us online: Denver Public Health, 303602-3520; or Jefferson County Public Health, 303-239-7078.

backyard is to eliminate attractants (i.e., food, water and shelter). Even something as simple as a dish of cat food can keep animals coming back. You'll also want to board up inviting areas in your home, like gaps under porches or holes in roof soffits. If you do find yourself with problem critters in your yard, hazing (yelling, spraying water or scaring) is often sufficient. After all, "if you don't tell the raccoons it's not okay, how will they know?" said Jerrie McKee, District Wildlife Manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Another tip? If an unwanted animal has taken up residence in an area of your home or yard, try tossing a rag of ammonia into the habitat. The strong smell will repel the animals and make the space less desirable. Shining bright lights at night or playing talk radio is also an effective strategy. While living near wildlife offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy nature, it can also cause safety concerns and can create headaches for homeowners. Following these tips will help you not only co-exist safely but also peacefully and with minimal problems. "We can't eliminate risk, but we can be empowered to minimize risk as much as we can," McKee added.

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What’s Happening in the WRBA

Great July Breakfast Meeting with Tetra Public Affairs Samantha Walsh learning about the Hemp Boom. Thanks to our Sponsor Christine Jensen Fairway Independent Morgage

Ribbon cutting with Ziggi’s Coffee June 24. Congratulations to the new Ziggi’s Coffee drive through at 2900 Youngﬁeld. Thanks to Mayor Bud Starker and other WRBA members for the support.

SEPTEMBER PIZZA & NETWORKING IN THE PARK

Please register for this meeting before 5pm on Thursday, Sept. 5

wheatridgebiz.com/ upcoming_events/

DATE: Tuesday, September 10, 2019 TIME: 7:00am-9:00am LOCATION: New Anderson Park Pavilion, 44th and Field St. South End, Wheat Ridge, CO COST: $15 for WRBA Members and their guests, $18 for Non-members TOPIC: “Networking for Success!” SPEAKER: Amira Watters, Director, Jefferson County Business Resource Center MEETING SPONSOR: Brandy Zamudio, Farmers Insurance MEMBER BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Ben Crowden, Avenida Lakewood and Jadon Wiens, First Bank

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passport at any Little Man Ice Cream store, have ice cream there, get your passport stamped, then go to three more of the five stores, and repeat the process. To make pursuit of the Passport even sweeter for your family, after your first purchase, you can receive a buy-one-get-one deal on any menu item. You must do complete the passport and drop off it off at any Little Man Ice Cream shop (LoHi, Congress Park, Stapleton, and Fort Collins) by the end of business on Labor Day. Be sure to include your name and email. Five lucky Grand Prize winners will be announced on Sept. 3.

Great people and great service keep me coming back. – Oliver

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2019 – ngazette.com

Wildlife In The City: Turkey Vultures n By

Sally Griffin

while ago while sitting in the dentist’s chair, I was pleasantly distracted watching a kettle bubble up gracefully, thanks to rising afternoon temperatures. My dentist’s office, instead of overlooking traffic, is located several stories up where you can see an open hillside. The graceful flight was a group of turkey vultures. A group of vultures catching thermal updrafts supposedly take on the appearance of water boiling in a pot – so they are called a kettle. Even though they are big birds, turkey vultures are relatively light in weight. They have a wingspan of almost six feet, but they usually weigh less than five pounds. Because of their light weight, turkey vultures can literally float in the sky using thermal currents to get around. It takes a big effort to get off the ground: much flapping of wings and hopping around. But once in the air, this method uses very little energy and once aloft, they rarely flap their wings. This way they can soar for hours at a time. Turkey vultures have been reported by aircraft pilots to rise as high as 20,000 feet. Clearly, they don’t know when to stop or what might make a more comfortable cruising altitude. Vultures are, unfairly, some of the leastadmired birds. They don’t circle to wait for things to die, like in the movies. They circle to spot things that are already dead. Then they serve as nature’s clean-up crew. They handily dispose of dead animals that may soon become rotting biological hazards. However, they do have their standards – they only like things that have been dead for about a day or two. After four days, even vultures won’t touch a rotting carcass. And when they are dirty and reeking of blood and guts, if there is a lake or pond nearby, they will take a refreshing bath after their meal. On top of their diet, they may seem ugly to many people. They have heads that lack feathers with many wrinkles and folds. But there is reason for those ugly heads. Can you imagine a bird with a feathered head that must stick it inside a carcass in order to do a vulture’s job? If they accumulate fresh scraps, with a bald head they can quickly wash it off or bake it off on hot days. They are often seen standing with their wings’ spread. This behavior is believed to accomplish several things: to dry the wings, to warm them up, and most importantly to bake off bacteria. Turkey vultures have unique adaptions that mean they can feast on meals that may not be attractive to other animals. By the time they start to feed, bacteria will have already started the process of breaking down a carcass. This releases toxins that would be harmful to many creatures. Turkey vultures have their own bacteria in their guts that is flesh-eating and toxic. These bacteria, along with very powerful acids, will digest the flesh so well that it even destroys the dead animal’s DNA. They use the bacteria from the food they eat to help them digest that very same food. Talk about an efficient system. After getting a view from high above, turkey vultures use smell to help them find potential meals. This sense of smell is very rare in the bird world. They may swoop low to catch the scent of the gas produced by the decaying animals. They can even pick out the freshest remains, which they prefer. Other scavengers, including other kinds of

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vultures, will often follow turkey vultures to potential meals. They will watch for circling turkey vultures to suddenly drop down. This means these groups sometimes compete for meals, but, other times, scavengers with heavier beaks will be able to break through skin that is too tough for the turkey vultures. This allows them both to eat. One oil and gas company uses turkey vultures’ sense of smell: If they spot turkey vultures circling near a pipeline, they know to check for leaks. A gross fact about turkey vultures is that they urinate down their legs. This helps to cool them down during hot weather. When the moisture on their legs evaporates it cools the blood vessels in the feet, thus cooling the whole bird. It is also believed that because of high amounts of acid in their urine, this also works to kill bacteria on the legs. Another gross fact: turkey vultures vomit to ward off predators. You can imagine how gross the food is when they ingest it, but you wouldn’t believe the smell when it comes back up. Some believe they do this to rid themselves of the heavy weight of undigested food so they can fly. Eagles have been known to chase turkey vultures so they can dine on the regurgitated food.

I don’t think that I would want to spend much time below a tree with roosting turkey vultures. They often gather at night, sometimes, in large groups as both protection and so the younger birds can follow the older ones to look for food during the day. Some residents in Longmont have found that vultures roosting in their neighborhood are not easy to live with. For two years, the vultures’ home base has been in a large old oak tree in their neighborhood. Their bodily fluids have sometimes covered the whole sidewalk. They also have, occasionally, broken off large branches causing damage to cars and homes. The City of Longmont has submitted a plan to the USDA (turkey vultures are federally protected birds) to humanely relocate the birds to outside town. The plan is to make the birds as uncomfortable as possible. This means using multiple approaches to pester the birds since they will learn to ignore just one nuisance. The city will hang dead turkey vultures in the trees as well as fire loud fireworks and shine high-powered lasers when they come to roost. When the birds go to find another tree for a roost, the process is repeated until the entire roost of turkey vultures finds a

suitable home outside of town. This process has proved successful elsewhere but is expensive. It will cost the city approximately $13,000. So, if you see a turkey vulture doing their job and cleaning up nature on the road, remember to slow down. They can’t fly away very fast. However, you probably don’t want to invite them home to your neighborhood.