Neighborhood Gazette – November 2018 by Neighborhood Gazette

WHEAT RIDGE MAYOR Recapping Local Races And Initiatives In Wheat Ridge Page 4

SCHOOL VISITOR PASS Community Superintendent Brenda Carlson Page 6

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS Program Strengthens Community Nonproﬁts Page 13

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WHEAT RIDGE | APPLEWOOD | MOUNTAIN VIEW | LAKESIDE | BERKELEY November 14 – December 17, 2018 • ngazette.com • FREE

Cue The Music: The Holidays Are Here n By

Meghan Godby

id-November is a tricky time of year. One day, you spot a few abandoned jack o’ lanterns on your neighbor’s front porch, while the next, you start to hear Christmas music on the radio. The weather is cool, a few leaves still cling to a hint of color, but holiday decorations are slowly creeping onto store shelves. You’re bombarded with discounted Halloween candy, cornucopia displays and Christmas lights. It’s as if all the year-end seasons meld together into one big mash of holiday spirit. The timing of all this is hotly debated, but there’s no doubt that the holiday season is coming at us fast. Need something to get you in the spirit? You’re in luck. There are plenty of family-friendly activities in the area and lots of ways to give back to your community this time of year. Ridge at 38th Holiday Celebration A longtime favorite, the Ridge at 38th Holiday Celebration, presented and organized by Localworks, will take place on Sat., Dec. 1 from 3 to 6:30 p.m. Warm up with a cup of hot cocoa, delight in the sound of carolers, and enjoy Continued on page 2

RIDGE ON 38TH HOLIDAY CELEBRATION, presented and organized by Localworks, will take place on Sat., Dec. 1 from 3 to 6:30 p.m., featuring hot cocoa, carolers, arts, crafts and holiday shopping. PHOTO BY BECKY OLSTAD

So Many Homeless … And Winter Is Coming n By

Nancy Hahn

esearching this article, the day was 70 degrees. The next, it was snowing. Imagine how this feels if you’re homeless. Wandering websites, I read a short article on The Homeless Shelter Directory’s news section thanking McDonald’s for providing its dollar menu. In their survey of ways to survive with little or no money, local food pantries were named, but the number one answer by those surveyed was that McDonald’s dollar menu feeds them daily. Next time I see someone with a cup or hat out on a corner, I’ll understand the diff erence a dollar can make. Getting off a bus on Colfax in Lakewood, I discovered one issue facing the homeless. I went into a little restaurant to use the restroom. It was locked and had a keypad. You could only get the code with purchase and there was a long line. Four restaurants in a row were the same. Later, talking with a homeless woman, she explained fi nding a bathroom is diffi cult. “You can walk to Walmart or ARC,” she said, “or go behind a dumpster in an alley.” How many things do the homeless confront daily that I never considered? The homeless have been in the news lately. On Oct. 29, the largest homeless sweep since 2016 was conducted in Denver. About 100 homeless men and women had camped near Park Avenue and Lawrence Street. Denver Police Department offi cers, Public Works employees, and city dump trucks engaged in a large-scale sweep — or cleanup operation. Many homeless people had tents and sleeping bags thrown away. City workers explained that human waste, animal waste, needles, rats, and trash made the area unsafe.

The tiny home village, created for the homeless, was in the news, also. The homes must move from 38th and Blake. The Beloved Community Village of formerly homeless individuals needs a new location for the tiny homes. A developer off ered a plot of land, but the land is on a fl oodplain and deemed unsafe. The city is searching for other locations, since the permit for the current location expires in January.

Food and Shelter is Available

Jeff co Eats is a nonprofi t serving

Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, Edgewater and Arvada to ensure that hungry or homeless families don’t go hungry on the weekends. Jeff co students whose families have been identifi ed as needing support take home backpacks of healthy foods every Friday. Food Bank of the Rockies, the Jeff erson County Colorado Department of Education, Title One, and Homeless area directors work together to support homeless families. There are many shelters and services throughout Jeff erson County. Family Tree at 3805 Marshall St. in Wheat Ridge

off ers a variety of services. Family Tree’s Roots of Courage supports domestic abuse victims. Houses of Hope off ers emergency residential services. There are other homeless programs, as well as, Safe Care Programs to support families. Shannon’s Hope off ers a residential community for pregnant women without homes. Shannon’s provides a caring home for clients. They, also, help clients access community services and plan their future. The Denver Rescue Mission has a Continued on page 2

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

There’s Still Gold In Them Thar Creeks n By Elisabeth Monaghan

t’s unlikely anyone can live in Wheat Ridge for more than a year and not know about its agricultural roots, but some may be less familiar with the city’s signifi cance in the history of the gold rush in Colorado. Before there was Denver, there was Montana City, which was located just east of Evans Avenue and Santa Fe Drive. (Today that site is a the Grant-Frontier Park.) In response to rumors that gold was plentiful in Montana City, a group of prospectors fl ocked to the area. Upon discovering there was no abundance of gold, the prospectors abandoned the site, hoping to have better luck farther downstream. Among the next locations where prospectors sought gold were the area that is now the Auraria Campus and the Arapahoe Bar (now the Arapahoe Gold Panning Park), which is located at 44th Avenue and Youngfi eld Street. GOLD PROSPECTORS OF THE ROCKIES members This is just one of the lessons about the Colorado Gold Rush members taught tour guests of the Georgetown Loop Railroad of the Gold Prospectors of the Rockies learn as they discover the history how to pan for gold this past Labor Day. The annual Continued on page 12

outing is one of many social and educational activities the club hosts. PHOTO: GOLD PROSPECTORS OF THE ROCKIES

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – ngazette.com

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growing number of shelter facilities and is constantly improving its work with the homeless. Its shelters are designed with great thoughtfulness and understanding about what homeless people need. The shelters for families have facilities for children and youth development activities. Some shelters provide meals. They also help parents with job or educational training, even getting a GED. Several shelters for individuals provide lockers, which are important because many homeless have jobs and can’t take their bundle of belongings to work. Having a safe place to leave their belongings makes them feel more established. While they may not have a home, they have a home base. The Salvation Army, also, offers shelters. They provide blankets and snacks to area homeless, who choose not to stay in a shelter. The Salvation Army focuses on drug and alcohol rehabilitation, also. With seven locations within eight miles of Wheat Ridge, many services are within reach. The Lambuth Family Center, for example, at 2741 N. Federal Boulevard, has transitional housing for families, domestic violence services, a Boys and Girls Club, casework services, and food and nutrition classes. Their many shelters provide emergency housing, transitional housing, and other support. There are shelters for women and

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arts, crafts and holiday shopping. A beautiful 25-foot evergreen will be lit at 6:30 p.m. at 7101 W 38th Ave., lighting up the city and heralding the start of the holidays. Have little ones? You may want to come early; the first 120 families will get a free professional photo with Santa! Food will be available for purchase. For more information, including information on volunteering at this event, visit ridgeat38.com.

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City of Edgewater Holiday Lighting Ceremony Santa continues his grand tour of the area with the City of Edgewater Holiday Lighting Ceremony; the date and time have not been confirmed. Enjoy carolers, dance performances, hot chocolate, and even make a gingerbread house (there is a modest $5 fee for the gingerbread houses which supports Edgewater’s senior programs). Santa himself will help light up the city, sure to delight the kiddos and bring out the kid in the rest of us. Holiday Lighting Contests Do you fancy making a Christmas display of your own? The City of Edgewater and the Two Creeks Neighborhood Organization are hosting holiday lighting contests this December. Open to local residents, prizes include gift cards and, of course, bragging rights for the year ahead. Both organizations will judge lighting displays in mid-December. Even if you can’t participate, you’re sure to enjoy the colorful and elaborate displays created by your neighbors! For more information on registration, please visit playedgewater.com and twocreeksneighborhood.org, respectively.

A Time To Give While it’s always fun to celebrate, we can’t forget that there are less fortunate families in our community that could use a helping hand. It’s never too early to spread holiday cheer – after all, the season of giving lasts all year long. The Wheat Ridge Police department kicks off this time of year with its annual Operation Blue Santa, which will take place on Sat., Nov. 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lakeside Wal-Mart, 5957 W. 44th Ave. Hosted in partnership with the Wheat Ridge Optimists Club, this

children, family shelters, shelters that provide meals, and those that provide employment services. So why are homeless people sleeping under bridges, camping along Clear Creek, and huddled in RTD bus shelters throughout the winter? The homeless have their individual reasons for avoiding shelters. Some homeless people have dogs. A dog is protection, especially for younger homeless people or for women. A dog persuades passers-by to talk and give a dollar or two. A dog is a friend when the world isn’t friendly. Shelters don’t accept dogs. Some shelters have rules about when to be in line. The line can be long and exposed to the weather. Some shelters require counseling. One homeless man, Jack, explained that he has his spot outside. Sheltered from wind and weather; it is familiar, known. While not comfortable to anyone else, it feels safer than a shelter full of unknown problems. Shelters come in all varieties. Shelters without entry restrictions with simply one big room with cots can have every problem imaginable. Crowding brings problems when some people are sick, haven’t bathed in a while, and not everyone is honest. Fights can happen. Some do have bugs, including lice. Some people do find their shoes were stolen. But better shelters are being created. Some shelters, including the faith-based shelters, offer counseling and support finding a path out of homelessness. Finding paths out of homelessness is important. The long-term solution, though, must be creating programs preventing struggling individuals and the working poor from crossing that line into homelessness. event helps bring holiday cheer to needy families in our area by collecting new, unwrapped toys. It’s not only a great way to help those in need, but it’s also a wonderful way to meet and connect with our local law enforcement. In addition to toys, monetary donations are accepted the funds will go towards gift cards to help with food and clothing. If you’d like to help wrap the gifts, head to Wheat Ridge City Hall on Dec. 14 from 4 to 6:30 p.m.; they will be distributed to families the following day. The Boys and Girls Club is a nationwide organization with local chapters to help serve needy children in our community. Every year, they host a toy drive that runs from the day after Thanksgiving (Friday, Nov. 23) through Christmas Eve (Monday, Dec. 24). Donations can be dropped off at a variety of locations, including the Wheat Ridge (5301 W. 38th Ave.) and Edgewater (1725 Sheridan Blvd.) King Soopers. What to bring? New, unwrapped toys for ages 6 to 18. While gift cards are always a safe bet for older kids, consider creative alternatives like art supplies and sports equipment. Their website also has a wish list to help you brainstorm ideas. For more information, including a comprehensive list of drop off locations, please visit bgcmd.org. Short on time but still want to help give back this holiday season? Consider making a donation to the Rotary Club’s Operation Warm fundraiser. This annual project helps collect funds to purchase brand new coats for less fortunate children. Donations can be made from the comfort of your own home via PayPal, by visiting wheatridgerotary.org. If you’d like to send a check instead, that information is also included on the website. If you’re looking for more ideas on events, charity drives, and volunteer opportunities, consider checking your neighborhood NextDoor page (nextdoor. com), Facebook (click on Events to find all sorts of local activities near you), or milehighonthecheap.com. These sites pull together events from a variety of sources, including smaller happenings that might get buried under more established events. No matter how crazy or busy the world gets, this time of year brings out the best of us. With election season under our belt, let’s all join together and make the most of this holiday season. So mark your calendars - it’s time to give back, connect with your neighbors, and celebrate everything that makes our neighborhoods great.

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – ngazette.com

WHEAT RIDGE MAYOR Recapping Local Races And Initiatives Impacting Wheat Ridge voters to understand lengthy and complex questions. The two transportation funding issues both failed, indicating that voters, ell, another election season is in the while perhaps not pleased with the current books. While some of us are breathing state of our transportation system, are a sigh of relief that the advertising is done looking to the State Legislature for solutions for the year, we all have cause for celebration within the current framework and revenues. and reflection. As I share some of the results On the “compensation for that impact the Wheat Ridge takings” question, Amendment community, I’d like to start by 74, the voters said “no,” as they congratulating our city treasurer, did for Proposition 112, setbacks Jerry DiTullio, for successfully for oil and gas drilling. securing a new position as Funding questions for Jefferson County Treasurer. Jefferson County School District Jerry has served our city well R-1 were split by the voters, and for many years, most “yes” for 5A and “no” for 5B. recently as the treasurer but The West Metro Fire Protection also as our mayor and as a city District and the Urban Drainage council member. We will miss and Flood Control District faired his knowledge and dedication Bud Starker better with both measures (7C to public service for the city but and 7G) passing. wish him all the best as he takes The two questions put forth by the City the reins of this position on a larger scale of Wheat Ridge were approved by the voters. serving all of Jefferson County. Question 2A gives the city permission Congratulations also go to Wheat Ridge to provide high-speed Internet services, City Council member Monica Duran for her although there are no current plans to win as State Representative in District 24, provide these services. With approval of and to Jessie Danielson in her successful Question 2B, the city can retain the excess race to become State Senator in District 20. sales and use tax revenues from the 2016 These women have served our community 2E ballot question for investment in 2E well in elected positions on our city council projects. and in the state House of Representatives, I hope you exercised your right to vote respectively, and I look forward to working in this year’s election. The right to vote is a with them in the state legislature on issues cornerstone of our democracy, and I thank of concern in our community. Lastly, you for safeguarding it. congratulations to Congressman Ed Contact Wheat Ridge Mayor Bud Perlmutter for his reelection to Colorado’s Starker at bstarker@ci.wheatridge.co.us 7th Congressional District. or 303-235-2800. Ballot questions put forth this year demonstrated an ability by Colorado n By

Bud Starker

Jeffco BRC is a 501c3 organization dedicated to providing quality services and support to small businesses within Jefferson County. We welcome the opportunity to partner with you to ﬁnd solutions for any challenges, opportunities, resources, or answer questions you have about doing business in Jeffco. Small business is our business… connecting you with tools for success. Popular Topics include Concept, Research and Feasibility Financial Check-Up Business Plan Writing Growth & Expansion Registration & Business Structure Marketing & Strategic Planning Funding & Funding Sources Hiring & Firing If you have questions – we have answers! Call to set up your FREE Business Advising Appointment Today!

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LOCALWORKS UPDATE Celebrate Living Locally classes and more. A favorite feature each year is the Colorado Honey Festival at Four Seasons Farmers and Artisans Market. hat do you love about living in or This weekend-long event brings in honey around Wheat Ridge? Is it your enthusiasts from all over Colorado. At the neighbors? Your favorite local businesses? Colorado Honey Festival, there are delicious The urban farm down the street? Maybe it’s honey products for purchase and lots of your easy access to nature. informative presentations on topics such as Whatever it may be, Localworks wants beekeeping, pollination and the benefits of to help you celebrate it. Live Local is a honey. program that encourages people Through our Live Local to find what they love about program, residents interact with Wheat Ridge and share it with local businesses, meet others their neighbors and friends. with similar interests and learn Currently, Live Local events more about all that Wheat Ridge fall within two categories – has to offer. If celebrating your Active and Harvest. Active love for Wheat Ridge appeals events give residents an to you, please consider joining opportunity to live a healthy our Live Local Committee. We and active lifestyle. One such are also interested in expanding event is Fitness in the Park, this program to incorporate where Localworks partners with different gyms and fitness Ashley Holland other interests and activities, so whether your interests fall within studios to provide free, outdoor classes. fitness and urban agriculture, or they are We’ve showcased several different fitness completely different, we could use your styles, including yoga, martial arts, Pilates input. and functional fitness. Localworks also If you are interested in shaping the organizes Cruiser Rides throughout the future of this program and encouraging your summer. These bike rides take participants community to live locally, please join us for to various businesses around town and offer our Live Local Open House on Thursday, participants an opportunity to get some Dec. 6 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Infinitus exercise as they explore local restaurants. PIE, 5807 W. 38th Ave. If you are unable Finally, Localworks also has a summer to join us but want more information on Run/Walk Club where participants can get getting involved with this program, contact to know their neighbors on a walk or jog. Robin Baker at rbaker@wearelocalworks. Our Harvest events celebrate the org or 720-259-1030. agricultural heritage and spirit of Wheat Ashley Holland is a Wheat Ridge resiRidge. At these events, we dive into various dent and the Marketing and Events Coorurban agriculture and gardening topics. dinator at Localworks. In the past, we have had backyard poultry tours, seed swaps, farm tours, pickling n By

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Wheat Ridge Historical Society’s

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ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

WHEAT RIDGE HISTORICAL Caroling, Cookies And White Elephants On Dec. 8 n By

Janet “White” Bradford

efore there were movies and television, neighbors would get together at the holiday season to sing carols while enjoying snacks and visiting. The ladies would package their favorite cookies by the dozen to trade with friends to allow a variety of fl avors for the season. So bring your singing voice and packaged cookies to exchange with your neighbor’s at the Wheat Ridge Historical Society’s Annual Holiday celebration. Our December Second Saturday Event will be Dec. 8 at the Historic Baugh House at 44th & Robb St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The White Elephant gift exchange, at 1 p.m., is always a hit with fun and funny items being exchanged. Bring a wrapped gift to participate. Put on your holiday fi nery or dress in your pioneer clothing from the 1890s to 1930s (jeans and coveralls are also acceptable). Participants may fi nd their picture on our Facebook page, “The Wheat Ridge Historical Society”. Please share your event pictures with us as well! Stop by the Historical Park at 4610 Robb St. to chat with members of the Wheat Ridge Quilt Circle as they work on quilts and other crafts on the fourth Wednesday of the month between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Cost is $2. Our new Knit/Crochet Group will also

meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m.! Cost is $2. Also for just $2, you can get a tour of The Historical Park when it is open Tuesday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. With fi ve buildings to tour and many historic items to explore this is a great bargain! Our Fourth Saturday Project Day is when we tackle projects around the Historical Park and Baugh House. There are indoor and outdoor projects to be done! So come by for 30 minutes or an hour or two, all help is greatly appreciated. This is a monthly event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at either or both locations check our Facebook page for updates on this community service. Snacks provided and history is discussed at these Project Day events, scheduled for Dec. 22, Jan. 26 and Feb. 23. Our December Society meeting will be on the second Tuesday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. at the Red Brick Museum. We have snacks with a brief historic talk at the start of the meeting. New members are encouraged to join us at these fun and informative monthly evening meetings. Our upcoming monthly Second Saturday Events include Happy 50th Birthday WR (January 2019), Sweethearts & Craft Arts (February 2019) and Purple & Green Party (March 2019).

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Visit www.wheatridgehistoricalsociety. org for more information.

WEST METRO FIRE West Metro ARM Car Provides Better Patient Care n By

coloradogives.org

Ronda Scholting

W heat Ridge WR Community CF Foundation

hen June Jones woke up one morning in October, the 98-year-old wasn’t feeling quite herself. She was in pain and having some trouble getting around her Lakewood home. Out of concern, Jones’ granddaughter called 9-1-1. What happened next was certainly unexpected. Instead of being taken to the emergency room, June got the attention and medical treatment she needed – in the comfort of her own living room – through a “house call” by West Metro Fire Rescue’s ARM Car; or, advanced resource medic. “She had quite a bit of anxiety about going to the emergency room, and wondering if she did, when she would be able to come home,” said Erin Jones, the granddaughter. “This was an amazing experience that my grandmother could stay in her home.” The ARM Car program is a publicprivate partnership, between West Metro Fire Rescue and Dispatch Health – designed to treat non-emergency patients in place – saving on health care costs and avoiding a trip to the hospital. The car is staff ed with a West Metro advanced practice paramedic and either a physician assistant or a nurse practitioner from Dispatch Health. “The ARM Car is all about providing the most appropriate treatment we can in the most effi cient manner,” said Kimel Brent, West Metro advanced practice paramedic. “Not everyone who calls 9-1-1 needs to go to the emergency room. For those that don’t, we can treat them where they are – at home, or at work.” With the staff ’s expertise and the resources on board, the ARM Car is like urgent care on wheels. The program debuted in May 2018. “I’ve been in health care for 15 years, fi rst as a paramedic, now as a PA,” said Erin Johnson, Dispatch Health physician assistant. “And, I’ve worked in a lot of diff erent environments. This is the fi rst time that I feel like I’m appreciated – truly appreciated – and people are really gracious

Help the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation Support These Community Programs: RESIDENTS CAN NOW GET THE ATTENTION and medical treatment they need in the comfort of their own living room through a “house call” by West Metro Fire Rescue’s ARM Car; or, advanced resource medic. PHOTO: WEST METRO FIRE RESCUE

and excited about the service.” For the patients who’ve been treated by the ARM Car staff , most have been incredulous when they’re told they don’t have to go to the hospital. “It’s just not what they’re expecting – and it’s baﬄ ing, but also a big relief,” said Brent. “This type of care is really benefi cial for older patients, especially those that might have Alzheimer’s. Being treated at home is much more calming and better for those patients than what they experience in an emergency room.” For June Jones, the opportunity to stay at home for treatment was “…very much better…” than the emergency room trip she was worried about. “The impact that we’ve made in patient’s lives I think speaks for itself,” said Brent. “She got all the treatment and personal attention that she would have had in the emergency room.” Ronda Scholting is the West Metro Fire Rescue Communications/Media Relations Specialist.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – ngazette.com

ASK THE SUPER Some Thoughts On Politics And The Election

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Dear Dr. Glass: With this question being government intrusion. The left values sent prior to the election, what words can inclusion, equity, holds a pluralistic view of you give us to hang on to, no matter which religions, and lifts up the role of government way the votes go. Thanks in advance. to protect the public good. Late political scientist David Easton Like a sailboat in tempestuous waters, once defined politics as “the authoritative American representative democracy has allocation of values.” More precisely, politics demonstrated a remarkable ability for self(in a representative democracy) is the righting when the country tilts too far offsystem where one group or another gets to center. This past election is an example determine how society will operate and can of that where, in spite of efforts to rig the compel adherence to their set of preferred outcome with voter-suppression and values through laws, sanctions, gerrymandering tactics, some and rewards. semblance of balance was This authoritative restored. For at least the next allocation of values becomes two years, any “authoritative all the more apparent when allocation of values” at the our political institutions are federal level will be tempered lacking ideological checks and by the need for some level of balances. At the federal level, bipartisan cooperation in order with both houses of Congress, for anything to get done. the Presidency, and the Supreme Now that we are Court being controlled by the past some of the political Republican Party (and an hyperventilation associated accompanying set of conservative Jason E. Glass, Ed.D. with this past election (for at values), those on the right have least a moment), it would do us delighted in recent decisions. Conservative all well to step back away from our partisan values have been authoritatively allocated world-views and take stock of where we for the past two years. are as a nation. Our neighbors who had Conversely, those on the left have found different yard signs, bumper stickers, and novel ways to resist through both formal who voted differently than we did are not (court challenges, disruptive political necessarily wrong or evil – they just see the tactics) and informal (protests, social media world through a different (and positive) set efforts) means. of values. And, most importantly, they are These opposing values, which have still our neighbors. boiled over these past few years, are positive Thank you. If you have a question for our superinon both sides. At the risk of generalizing, tendent please submit it to Guy@Nostalgithe right values security, free enterprise, cHomes.com or call it in to 303-999-5789. Judeo-Christian religious views, and lesser

SCHOOL VISITOR PASS Conversation With Community Superintendent Brenda Carlson n By

Guy Nahmiach

How far do you go back with Jeffco and what was your first job here? As far as I can remember! I was born and raised in Edgewater. I had attended Lumberg Elementary, and to my amazement would later be the principal there. I went to Wheat Ridge Junior High and then moved to Evanston, WY., full time to be live with my dad when I was 13. My first job in Jeffco was the principal of Prospect Valley. It was one of my favorite jobs I have ever had. The community support is so strong and caring. I was also fortunate enough to have my two kids, Max and Maddie go there. What is your background and how does it help you relate and help our Wheat Ridge schools? I believe great schools make great communities. I spent 30 years working in elementary schools. I was a first, second, third, and fifth grade teacher for 11 years, a principal for 19 years, and have been in the Community Superintendents office for eight years. Wheat Ridge has a small-town feel and the principals in the area are very close. I have lived in Wheat Ridge, had my children attend schools in Wheat Ridge, saw them graduate from Wheat Ridge High School. I have always worked closely with families, the city, the police department, businesses and faith-based organizations in Wheat Ridge. Wheat Ridge is an impressive, progressive community who truly cares for all students, all schools and all educators. I also have lived through the changing demographics, challenges, and successes of the Wheat Ridge area schools as a parent, principal, and Community Superintendent. Have Priorities changed inside WR, if so how? We learned that together we are stronger.

Our school leaders are taking time to reflect, look at data, and set clear priorities and goals for their schools by determining the highest levers to move the school forward. Another thing we have learned is less is more. There are so many school priorities, and often we make slight progress in many areas, instead of significant progress on one or two areas. We are working harder and smarter than ever. Wheat Ridge has always had great schools, but now the vision is clearer and we are working together for all students to be career and college ready. Every single child counts, not 70, not 80, but 100 percent of our children grow each year and all of their needs are met. Last year we held a WR Future Search to have open honest conversations about our reality in Wheat Ridge schools and set goals. The reality is we have very high achieving schools and schools that are struggling. I differentiate my work by what the schools need. The challenges have been small schools, changing demographics, student data, and a national concern around school safety and student mental health. We are attracting more students from other artic[ulation] areas, especially WR High School with the Stem and GT programs. Many of our neighborhood schools are getting new students every day. We are really seeing amazing successes in all of our Wheat Ridge area schools. Over the years, your bosses have had different agendas representing different political sides. How do you manage stay out of the political conversation? I always stay student and school focused. We all in WR focus on what is best for kids, not adults. All of my bosses have focused on students, great teachers, great principals, Continued on page 7

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

SCHOOL CROSSING GT – Gift or Curse? school. The “curse” of being labeled “GT” he Gifted and Talented (GT) road is attributes to being made fun of by a long one for parents and educators. classmates, being called names (nerd, What parent doesn’t think their child is geek, etc.) but mostly given more work by special? The struggle is to keep your student teachers. Whether it was “busy” work or interested and motivated in a classroom more challenging “passion” projects, it was where the main focus for teachers is to move all just more work. everyone at the same speed. But what about Jenny would hear “adults saying that GT those that have figured out what you’re kids were weird” and Amy had her teachers going to say and complete their work before expect her to be “good at everything.” Simon anyone else? Is there more work just to keep put pressure on himself to be better and them busy? Who is challenging them and do strive for higher grades. they even want to be challenged? It’s pretty evident that Keep in mind that it’s not always GT students find each other about scores and test results. and build relationships with “A sleeping cheetah is still a those that thrive on learning, cheetah.” completing and exploring new What does the GT ideas. The Purple team at Creighton was the best example designation really mean for the of that. Most continued students themselves? Gift or into Lakewood’s IB program curse? I visited with 20 students where these same GT students and parents in the GT program continued learning and at Wheat Ridge High and the competing in a very structured IB program at Lakewood High Guy Nahmiach environment. The Wheat Ridge and asked them about their GT program is just as great experiences. When did they know but with more of a focus on individual they were “different?” I’m referring to kids development, creating a space where that taught themselves to read at the age creativity and academics thrive side by side. of 3. First graders doing sixth-grade math. Here is where the interview took a Talented youngsters creating art or music at turn: Students wanted to know why schools an adult level. would not reward and celebrate a gifted There was a common message that math student or a talented economics parents were overly obsessed with the high achiever, but schools and society testing and just general labeling of their itself without hesitation celebrate gifted kids. Testing (COGAT) in Jeffco used to basketball players or name a street in be conducted in the fourth grade. It is Wheat Ridge after a football player. In fact now offered in the second grade, and yet the Board of Education regularly parades many parents are concerned that their athletes and singers across the stage at preschoolers and kindergarteners are board meetings, but it is a rare sight to have showing learning behaviors and talents academic achievers being celebrated. These, not seen until much later in school. The by far, were the most disturbing comments designation is helpful in getting into GT in the interview, GT students knowing Center programs and keeping their students that their achievements would always be motivated and actually enjoying going to ignored by the community. Interviewing school. former Jeffco Director of GT programs, Dr. Many felt that the “GT” label was great Blanche Kapuchin, I learned that most are in explaining why they were “different” and intelligent enough to have developed a level having access to higher-level resources. of patience, knowing that their time and “Ken was recognized as exceptional from abilities will be appreciated in college and the age of 3 and was labeled GT in second later in life. This wall they’ve built is a form grade. He liked the acknowledgment that he of protection and self preservation. was smart since his peers usually didn’t get Full disclosure: both of my kids are GT him. But he was resentful that he had to do students and have had their ups and downs more work. He didn’t find it enriching.” with the label and the limited resources “Gail liked the GT label at middle school available in the schools they attended. I did and felt like the program challenged her join the JAGC board (Jeffco Association of like she hadn’t been before. She also liked Gifted Children) and work with a highly the acknowledgment that she was “smart” effective group of parents and professionals – something she didn’t get in elementary in helping the district improve the GT school.” program with developing resources and While our GT Centers do a great job communication between schools and in providing a higher level of curriculum parents. mixed with relevant and “interesting” work, If you you’re looking for information we need to keep in mind that 80 percent of about this subject or even are looking to students with an Advanced Learning Plan help out by becoming a GT Ambassador in (ALP) actually attend our neighborhood your school, please don’t hesitate to call or schools. This has been a challenge for email me. parents who want that same curriculum As always, thanks for reading. for their kids. Everyone I interviewed ■ By

Guy Nahmiach

mentioned the need for improvement in our ALP programs at every level and every

Contact Guy Nahmiach at 303-9995789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

Visitor Pass

to navigate this very complicated world. The moment when you connect with a child and you see them light up, it is indescribable. You build positive relationships with students, colleagues, parents and entire communities. Teaching matters and it makes a difference in children’s lives. I would also like to acknowledge and thank a teacher that made a difference in my life: Marge Mariola was my neighbor, mentor and a retired Jeffco Teacher and still lives in Edgewater. She is my friend and my second mom, and I became a teacher because of her and her daughter, my best friend Teresa’s influence on my life. I knew I wanted to be a teacher and principal when I was in second grade. I have been in school continuously since I was 5!

Continued from page 6

and making schools safe and funded. They funding is has been the most challenging. I think all sides believe in that. What advice do you have for young people considering education as a career? Go for it, teaching is the best job in the world. You get to make a massive diﬀerence in the lives of young people. Sometimes we might not know how many students have taken your words of wisdom to heart and will go on to repeat them to their own children. It is more than you think. You are constantly learning new skills, and no day is ever the same. We put tools in kids toolboxes

Questions for this guest writer or suggestions for future guest writers should be sent in to Guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

Tutoring Help On The Way For Students Through The Wheat Ridge Community Foundation ■ By

Mike McKibbin

ith funding help from the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation, struggling students at Wheat Ridge High School are now able to seek tutoring help from fellow students who can help them achieve their academic goals. Chad Meyers, speaking on behalf of the Foundation, is an employment specialist with Jeffco Public Schools and the School to Work Alliance Program, or SWAP. That program is a collaborative effort between the school district and the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. SWAP’s mission is to help youth between the ages of 15 and 24 transition from school to work and become successfully employed. Through matching employers’ needs with student interests and capabilities, SWAP hopes to expand employment opportunities for young adults, engage local businesses in a community partnership that supports local youth in a successful school-to-work transition, among other benefits. SWAP youth have a mild to a moderate barrier to employment; are either graduating, have graduated, dropped out or are at risk of dropping out; have some degree of difficulty finding meaningful employment; display a strong desire and motivation to work in their community, and are unemployed or underemployed. Meyers, a Foundation board member, said that for several years, the Foundation had awarded scholarships to graduating high school students seeking careers through certificates or in trade-related areas. However, not all the students, awarded scholarships, followed through with their post-secondary plans for various reasons. “When we started looking at why that

was happening, one thing we came upon was a need for tutoring help for struggling students,” Meyers said. “Some of the students had trouble proving they could handle college-level courses with their reading and writing skills. For example, if a student wanted to go to Red Rocks [Community College] for an electrician certiﬁcate, they might have trouble passing their math classes or even an entrance exam that demonstrates they know the material.” The Foundation approved a $2,500 grant for the 2018-19 academic year to be spent in three areas: $500 for curriculum development, $1,500 to pay tutors and $500 for incentive compensation to be paid to tutors when the students they are tutoring achieve their academic goals. The main goal of the tutoring grant is to provide help to struggling students by matching them with exceptional students through the school’s Gifted and Talented Center. The grant will introduce tutors to entrepreneurism by paying them to help students achieve their academic goals, according to the grant application to the Community Foundation. To measure the success of the grant and tutoring program, students receiving the services will accomplish the academic goals for which they are being tutored, and those hired to be tutors will take a post-tutoring survey to identify the areas where they have developed more skills, such as leadership, content knowledge, a better understanding of the world of small business, etc. Student tutors will enroll in the program through a federal tax form 1099, submit invoices to the school’s bookkeeper and be paid when the school issues regular payroll checks. “The tutors will get the experience Continued on page 10

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – ngazette.com

MOUNTAIN VIEWS

What’s Happening in the WRBA

A Conversation About the Community with Mayor Levy n By

Great time was had by all at the Rotating Canvas event at Teller Street Gallery & Studios. Thank you for those who attended and thank you for our host!

Two great ribbon cuttings Friday November 16, please show your Wheat Ridge support and just visit them soon. Swiss Flower & Gift Cottage & Comcast Store .

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Patricia Lilliston

uring a recent conversation, Mountain View Mayor Glenn Levy spoke ardently about an anticipated town infrastructure project, a community improvement proposal, and his optimism for the implementation of neighborhood beautification. With project information initially introduced during the quarterly Coffee with the Mayor on Saturday, Sept. 29, Mayor Levy restated various aspects of the Wastewater and Stormwater Improvement Project. The scope of the improvement project requires the lining, repair and maintenance of the existing sewer pipes in the town’s sanitary sewer collection system. Additionally, the project addresses the design and construction of drainage improvement along 41st Avenue. “The town is working hard to minimize, to the extent that we can, the impact and cost to residents with regard to this project,” emphasizes Levy. With the cost of the project estimated at $95,285, the town had the foresight to apply for a grant. The town’s loan application for the improvement project will be submitted on Tuesday, Jan. 15. When the application is accepted, the majority of the improvement project expenditure will then convert to the intended grant status. Levy encourages community members to attend the public meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Town Hall and Police Department, 4176 Benton St. During the public meeting, the specific plan, details and timeline for the project will be reviewed by Mountain View’s engineer firm, RG & Associates, LLC. The forum will also provide the opportunity for questions and answers. Levy enthusiastically acknowledges a playground equipment proposal that was instigated by a resident and recently submitted by the Public Works Supervisor to the Jefferson County Open Space grant selection committee. If obtained, the grant will allow for desired upgrades to the existing Mountain View Town Park playground equipment. With consideration for community beautification, Levy cites two endeavors. The first action was prompted during the Sept. 29 quarterly Coffee with the Mayor, when residential concerns were raised about the deplorable condition of the town’s alleyways. “I heard what residents said so I have increased the weekly hours for the Public Works Supervisor to allow supervision for additional code enforcement,” reports Levy. The second beautification undertaking involves installation of park benches in the neighborhood along the sidewalk. “Adding park benches will offer a convenience for residents when walking their dog or while walking the neighborhood to sit, rest and hopefully, visit with neighbors,” reveals Levy. A location for a park bench has now been secured so residents will soon experience the

Tutoring Continued from page 7

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of some of what it takes to run their own business,” Meyers said. Tutors are paid $15 an hour, must have an interest in tutoring, and are recommended to the program by Gifted and Talented teachers. If the students they tutor achieve their academic goals, another $50 bonus is earned by the tutor. The program plans to have 10 tutors provide 10 one-hour tutoring sessions to each participating student. The grant provides for 20 students to participate in the program this school year as either tutors or those who receive tutoring help.

reality of this town beautification concept. For additional information or questions, contact Mayor Glenn Levy at glevy@tomv. org or attend the next town council meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 14, at 6:30 p.m., at the Town Hall and Police Department, 4176 Benton St.

Community Events

The annual fall town clean up began Friday, Nov. 9, with rollaway dumpsters available on 43rd Avenue north of the Town Hall and Police Department, 4176 Benton St. As the dumpsters are filled, replacement receptacles will be delivered to the site through Monday, Nov. 19. Residents are asked to adhere to the posted signage listing the types of items that cannot be discarded and to avoid overfilling the dumpsters. Weather permitting, the community street sweep is planned for Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 27 and 28. To facilitate an efficient community street sweep, residents should not clear yard debris into the curb and should remember to move vehicles from the street. The public meeting for the Mountain View Wastewater and Stormwater Improvement Project is scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Town Hall and Police Department, 4176 Benton St. The deadline for completion of the residential questionnaire has been extended until Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019. The questionnaire can be accessed at https:// bit.ly/TOMV-Survey. A paper version is available at the Town Hall and Police Department, 4176 Benton St.

Good Views

The culture of Iceland is rich, diverse and identified with a literary heritage that began in the 12th century. With a widespread love of literature and more books published per capita than any other country, Iceland’s literacy rate is among the highest in the world. So it is unsurprising that the holiday season in Iceland commences with Jolabokaflod (yola-bok-a-flot) or “Yule Book Flood.” Originated during World War II when foreign imports were restricted and paper was cheap, books became a popular holiday gift. The country’s seasonal tradition continues and is initiated in every Icelandic home with the delivery of Iceland Publishers Association catalogue of newly published titles. Book sales then typically increase during September and November as customers plan for the upcoming holiday. Gifted books are exchanged on Christmas Eve with recipients spending the remainder of the night reading and eating chocolate. So as preparation for holiday celebrations is underway, consider the Icelandic cultural phenomenon. Tally those on your gift list. Shop the bookstore. Select the next best read. Definitely, include the chocolate. Meyers noted if the program is successful at Wheat Ridge High School, it may be expanded to Everitt Middle School next year, if funding is available. “It could be we find the tutoring works well at the high school level, [and even though it] might get complicated at the middle school level, that may be where it could be more beneficial,” since it could instill good study habits at a younger age, Meyers added. The Foundation board and Gifted and Talented Center will evaluate the effectiveness of the grant at the end of the school year. For more information about SWAP or enrolling in the Gifted and Talented tutoring program, contact Chad Meyers, chad. meyers@jeffco.k12.co.us, 303-982-7014.

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Rats: Not Quite The Wildlife You Want n By

Sally Griffin

his is the yuckiest story about wildlife in our city that I have ever had to write, but I felt this story needed to be told. According to pest control company Orkin, the Denver area is the 10th “rattiest” city in the United States. We beat out Minneapolis for this spot. (Not that I think Minneapolis minded their displacement!) We are now in the same league as Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. The ranking is based on the number of new residential and commercial rodent treatments performed between September last year and September this year. Yuck, right?! So, let me tell you about some pretty disgusting creatures. If you think this is just a problem in the seedier areas of Denver, think again. Last year, Jefferson County Public Health had to deal with a massive rat invasion of a house in Lakewood. There were rats on the downspout, rats on the roof and rats on the rocks leading down to the neighborhood reservoir. One neighbor declared, “I’ve never smelled anything quite as bad in my life.” At the same time, Littleton noted that cases of mange had culled the number of predators (think coyotes) that feed on rodents, thus contributing to a noticeable increase in rats. Arvada also had sightings of rats near a dumpster not far from a string of businesses. Denver parks, including Civic Center, have telltale signs of rat infestations. Rat experts (can you imagine that as a job title?) say that you are going to find a lot more rodent activity in those places that have water, food and shelter readily available. That means a home by a lake or stream can be a rat vacation spot. Rats Don’t Like New Construction, Either There are other things that can cause rat problems. According to Ryan Riley, Orkin branch manager, part of the problem is caused by the building boom in the Denver area.

“Whenever you have new construction, whatever was living there before you started building has to go somewhere,” said Riley. This means rats can be a problem near any construction site whether it is in the heart of Denver or the western suburbs. And now is the worst time. Once the snow starts these mammals don’t hibernate, they look for warmer places to spend the winter. They only need a hole the size of a quarter to enter their new winter residence. In case you didn’t know, rats can climb walls or climb trees to jump to roofs. Rats will eat any food that humans or their pets will consume. They love bird feeders, dog pens, vegetable gardens, chicken coops, garbage cans, dumpsters and compost piles. They are ultimate omnivores. The food not eaten is hoarded in walls, furniture or appliances. Rats reproduce in the spring and fall. A female rat can have 20 or more offspring in a year. Although the average lifespan of a city rat is only five to 12 months, they will infest the same area, returning to produce more litters. They spread more than 35 diseases worldwide. These diseases are spread through direct contact, contact with their waste or saliva, and through the ticks, mites and fleas that have fed on a diseased rat. They will chew through almost anything and cause structural damage. They will gnaw on electrical wires, including electrical wires in cars. They can even take out gas lines, plumbing line and support beams. One estimate is that almost 25 percent of unexplained fires start from rodent chewing.

Know Your Rat Neighbor

The most common kind of rat in Colorado is the Norway rat, also known as brown rats. But Colorado also has pack rats. Norway rats have coarse fur that is reddish to grayish brown with a gray belly. They are large and robust, weighing in at 12 to 16 ounces. Pack rats have long tails that are covered in fur, white feet and a white underbelly. Pack rats are larger than other types of rats and can grow to almost eight

inches in length. While most rats live in fairly large groups, pack rats usually live alone. At any rate, if you see what looks like a very large and not so cute mouse, you are probably seeing a rat. Now, the real reason for this article: to give you some ideas on how to avoid and solve rat problems. Keeping things well sealed and keeping food where they can’t get to it are two best ways to prevent a rat problem. Cats may help, but some cats have an aversion to hunting rats. And I really can’t blame them. Managing the landscape around your house can help. Avoid low shrubs and tree branches next to the house. Keep grass and weeds mowed down. Remove any clutter, both inside and outside. Don’t store firewood next to the house. Remove old cars, old furniture and appliances. Manage food sources. Store pet food and birdseed in metal or heavy-duty plastic. Secure compost piles and recycling bins. Remove animal waste: rats will eat it! Carefully inspect the outside of the house and seal any hole bigger than a quarter; bigger than a dime if you want to keep mice out, too. Use steel wool, copper mesh, wire screen or sheet metal to keep those pesky rats from chewing through it.

The Big Three No-No’s

Three things to remember: 1) Avoid giving rats a place to hide; 2) Don’t give rats a home; 3) Don’t give rats a food source. To know if you have a rat problem there are several things you can look for. Look for them to be most active at dawn or dusk. Look for nests in drawers or boxes in the garage or shed. Look

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for rat droppings — 40 to 50 pellets a day. Look for burrows about three inches in diameter with compacted and smooth entrances that are close to the building, under slabs or along foundations. Look for gnawing damage around openings. Look for rub marks caused by their fur rubbing along walls. Lastly, scrambling or squeaking noises and a musty smell are dead giveaways that you have rats. If you think you have a rat problem, you may want to call an exterminator. If you want to try to deal with the emergency yourself, snap traps are recommended. Use ones that are like a standard mouse traps but bigger. Poison is not usually recommended because of the risks to children, pets and other wild animals. There are also environmental concerns with poison. If you want more information on how to use the traps effectively, the Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management has lengthy rat information at http://icwdm.org/wildlife/ NorwayRat.aspx.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – ngazette.com

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

FITNESS CORNER

A Helping Hand: Resources for Exploring the Great Outdoors

Mindful Eating: What It Is, How To Do It

n By

Meghan Godby

hether you’ve lived in Colorado for decades or you’re the new kid in town, there’s no denying the abundance of outdoor recreation that our state has to offer. Are we grateful? Sure, but it’s not always easy to know where to begin. If you don’t have friends that share your particular interest, it can be intimidating to venture out on your own. And if you don’t know where to go, what to wear, or what to bring with you, well, that just makes it even more overwhelming. Thankfully, there are plenty of free and affordable resources to point you in the right direction. The Jefferson County Library, for example, often hosts free, educational events for adults and children alike. They cover a variety of outdoor topics like fly fishing, healthy eating while hiking, and wildlife encounters. A handful of these events take place at the Wheat Ridge library (they hosted a bike safety rodeo this past summer, for example), but options abound if you’re willing to take a short drive to another location. While you’re at the library, consider checking out a book on your topic of interest. Looking to try snowshoeing this winter? Then you’ll love “Winter Trails Colorado” by Andy Lightbody. Fly fishing caught your fancy? Then consider “Fly Fishing the Seasons in Colorado” by Ron Baird, a comprehensive guide that will have you covered all year long. Can’t decide? Check out a copy of Outside magazine for inspiration. Through the library’s cultural

pass program, you can even check out a free State Parks Pass and a family activity backpack. For more information on these events, programs and resources, head over to jeffcolibrary.org. The City’s Parks and Recreation department is another great resource. The Active Adult Center (6363 W. 35th Ave.), regularly hosts outdoor trips geared towards ages 50+, while the Recreation Center periodically offers outdoor programming, including the WILD Family Nature series, which focuses on wildlife. For more information on both locations, check out rootedinfun.com. Still hungry for more? Consider checking out one of the many specialty stores in Wheat Ridge including Kifaru (hunting and camping, 4894 Van Gordon), Wheat Ridge Cyclery (7035 W. 38th), and Larson’s Ski and Sport (4715 Kipling). Employees are very knowledgeable in their particular field and stores often host events or classes. Wheat Ridge Cyclery, for example, regularly offers group rides and maintenance clinics. If you’re willing to travel just a bit further, REI and the Colorado Mountain Club are great comprehensive resources for equipment, experts and events. Visit rei. com and cmc.org, respectively. Even though options can seem overwhelming, you don’t have to navigate them alone. These resources are here for you, so take advantage of them. Learn something new, sharpen existing skills and meet new friends. Colorado is your playground – get out there and start exploring!

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mind externally with something while you eat, you become unaware of the body’s signals that tell you when to stop. Because indful Eating is a term that has been of this, you end up feeling more of an tossed around lately, but what does “uncomfortable fullness” rather than just it actually mean? The term mindfulness is feeling nourished and satisfied. defined in the dictionary as: • Make sure you’re 1. the quality or state of tasting the food. This may sound being conscious or aware of silly, but this is actually going to something. help prevent overeating. When 2. a mental state achieved by you focus on taste of foods, you focusing one’s awareness on the become more satisfied eating a present moment, while calmly smaller amount of food. acknowledging and accepting • Enjoy the moment. one’s feelings, thoughts, and Families that eat together bodily sensations, used as a around a table are statistically therapeutic technique. more likely be healthier overall When translating that to than those who do not. So, while mindful eating, the definition for Kimberly Williams you are eating, eat with people the phrase translates to whose company you enjoy. When 1. being aware of what you put into your you are taking the time to eat slowly and body, how it tastes, and how it makes you converse, you are more capable to recognize feel. fullness cues and to eat less than you would To practice mindful eating over the otherwise. holidays, here are a few goals for you to set So let’s do our overstimulated minds to help build awareness while eating: and bodies a favor and focus on our food • Don’t dine in front of the TV. The when it is in front of us. You will be surprised mindful eating technique is lost when you about much this technique can change your are eating in front of a TV because your life and keep you away from those holiday mind is not concentrating on what or how pounds that creep up this time of year. much food you are ingesting and how that Kimberly Williams is a Registered Difood makes you feel. etician and Personal Trainer at Feed Your • Be aware of when your body sends Soul Fitness – FeedYourSoulFitness.com. fullness cues. If you are distracting your n By

Kimberly Williams

Gold Propectors Continued from page 1

of gold in the Denver area. Not only does the prospecting group’s president, Jim Long, teach members about how to find and pan for gold, he also passes along the history of Colorado’s part in the gold rush boom that began in 1859. When he was young, Long accompanied his father, who was a prospector mining uranium around the San Luis Valley in the late 1940’s and early ‘50’s. “I was into sports and girls at the time, but I loved the outdoors, so I’d go with him,” explained Long. While he claims not to have paid attention to his father’s prospecting efforts as a youngster, he considered prospecting for gold as a way to spend his time when he retired from his job in law enforcement. “In the mid-‘80s, I knew I was coming up on retirement and thought ‘Well, maybe I ought to see what this is all about,’ so I got involved with the Gold Prospecting Association of America and became a member in the late 1980s.” Starting out dabbling in gold prospecting, Long decided to get into it full time after he retired in 2007. Initially, Long joined a gold prospector club based in Colorado Springs, but the drive from north of Denver to the meetings grew tiresome. In 1995, Long learned of the Gold Prospectors of the Rockies, which is in Lakewood and contacted its president about membership. At the club president’s invitation, Long attended his first meeting as a guest and enjoyed the group so much, he joined it that evening. Immediately, Long became an active volunteer for the club, first as a member of its board, and then as the organization’s president. Long describes the gold prospectors’ group as an organization dedicated to the amateur prospector and family-oriented groups that want to learn about mining. According to Long, the organization has roughly 175 family memberships, which breaks down to about 350 members, total. The annual fee to belong to the organization is $30, and members range from as young as 7 to individuals in their 90s, and reside in locations as far as South Carolina and Texas, to nearby states like Nebraska and Wyoming. Although he didn’t become interested

in gold prospecting until later in his professional career, Long, who has a minor in geology, knows a lot about rock formations and minerals – especially those in Colorado. “Colorado is unique when it comes to our minerals,” said Long. There is a mineral belt that runs from Gold Hill in Jamestown all the way down to Leadville, and then to other areas around Cripple Creek, Victor, the San Juan Region, Steamboat Lake and the Great Divide.” His familiarity with geology makes it easier for Long to tell which formations along the mineral belt contain gold and which do not. As a result, every time the club goes prospecting, someone always finds gold. Granted, small-scale prospectors are not going to get rich with their findings, but that fact doesn’t lessen the thrill of finding the shiny yellow nuggets. Long says his best prospecting day turned up 3/16ths of an ounce, which he estimates would be worth $250. The club collectively found seven ounces, which today is worth a little over $8,000. Since stepping in as president, Long has increased the club’s excursions from three or four outings a year to at least 20. A day of prospecting generally begins at 9 a.m., but it can go as late as 6 p.m. Long takes the group to pan at sites like Cripple Creek, Idaho Springs and Central City, but the Arapahoe Bar Panning Park is a closer spot that is popular among club members. In 1858, after their disappointing experience with Montana City, some prospectors went on to found Arapahoe City, named after the Arapaho native tribe. Although that city is long-gone, Arapahoe Bar Gold Panning Park remains a local area that is open to the public. There was a time when the City of Wheat Ridge considered shutting down mining at Arapahoe Bar. Fortunately, Long, who had already developed rules and regulations for the Clear Creek Open Spaces area in Jefferson County, was able to work with the City of Wheat Ridge to create a set of rules and regulations for gold panning at Arapahoe Bar. As part of his effort on behalf of the prospector organization, Long conducts a small-scale mining demonstration twice a year. He also presents a program about gold and where it comes from to 1,500 elementary-aged school children in Aurora, along with a three-day program for 2,000 Continued on page 13

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Red Rocks Program Strengthens Community Nonprofits n By

Sally Griffin

onprofit organizations provide so much to our communities. However, according to Forbes, over half of them are destined for failure. This is because most of them are started as a good cause, but with no idea of the key issues and challenges facing them. Luckily, we have a program right here in our community that is designed to provide training to address these challenges. Red Rock Community College has launched Nonprofit Pathway, a certificate program for people who wish to launch or advance their career in the nonprofit sector. “To have a program like this where people don’t just stumble their way into the sector, but instead think about it as a career, is exciting,” says Marla J. Williams, President and CEO of Community First Foundation, which partnered with Red Rocks to develop the program. “The Nonprofit Pathway is a unique program designed to help diversify and strengthen the nonprofit workforce by defining affordable career paths where few currently exist.” The courses are designed to provide direct, hands-on participation in the community. It is a 16-credit certificate that can be completed in just one year. Participants focus on one course at a time. Courses are offered in the evenings to accommodate busy schedules. Each course is offered over an eight-week session and combines classroom and online learning. A 135-hour internship or capstone project offers students the opportunity to put their learning into practice. Credits earned in this certificate can stand alone or can be transferred to meet major requirements towards a Bachelor of Public Services at the University of ColoradoDenver or a Bachelor of Human Services at Metro State University of Denver. Classes include Intro to Nonprofit Organizations, Program Design and Evaluation, Building Support for Nonprofits, Nonprofit Financial Management, Conflict Resolution, and Internship or Capstone, providing hands-on field experience. The program costs approximately $3,000, and students can complete the entire certificate or just take the courses they need. Scholarships are available specifically for those currently working in a nonprofit organization and interested in this program. These scholarships cover about half of tuition and fees for the total certificate. Students are affiliated with a diverse group of organizations, including the Wheat Ridge-based Family Tree. A sample of other organizations include Foothills Animal Shelter, Christian Action Guild, Community

Gold Propectors Continued from page 12

school-aged children in Highlands Ranch. In both, he talks about how planets were formed and how minerals like gold were deposited. For anyone curious about small-scale gold mining, Long recommends joining a prospector club to learn where and how to pan for gold legally, safely and in a way that does not harm the environment. Of course, Long is partial to the Gold Prospectors Club of the Rockies, emphasizing his group is the largest prospector organization in the Denver area, while also being the cheapest, easiest and “probably the friendliest” to join. He also points out that guests are always welcome to check out the monthly meetings. “Sometime it may take two or three meetings, but rarely do we have a visitor who does not join the club after the first meeting,” says Long. As a draw and to remind members why they are in the club, Long always gives away 10 gold nuggets at each meeting. With an average of 80 people attending the meetings, chances are pretty good a visitor may come away with some shiny gold of their own. To learn more about Jim Long or the Gold Prospectors of the Rockies, visit www. goldprospectorsoftherockies.com.

Faith in Action, Denver Brass, Denver Indian Center, Environmental Learning for Kids, Evergreen Audubon, Su Teatro Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Animal-Assisted Therapy of Colorado, BIONIC History Colorado, Colorado Railroad Museum, Florence Crittendon Services, and 40W Arts. The program is designed so students can practice what they have learned immediately by working with local nonprofit organizations. Colorado Homeless Families (CHF) partnered with the Building Financial Support course to address some needs around fundraising. This also provided students with a communitybased learning experience. After learning about the organization, students went to work researching various databases of potential funding sources that would fit the organization’s criteria. They also updated the organization’s case statement or funding appeal. Vicky Reier, CHF Board Vice-President, noted that working with the students provided an opportunity to reflect on the clarity of the organization’s current messaging around homelessness. This was a very valuable exercise for both the students and CHF. Executive Director, Karen Allen, said,

“I was really impressed with the students’ engagement and the incredible quality of instruction.” This program is designed for current nonprofit employees, those just starting their careers and drawn to the nonprofit area, or those seeking to change careers, particularly after completing successful careers in other areas. This program can help translate skill sets learned elsewhere. Career changers can learn about what nonprofit organizations do, about how their skills can help nonprofits, and how to effectively serve on nonprofit boards. Having an active and well-informed board is vitally important to the success of any nonprofit. In the future, the program may offer more training focused on this board development. As you can see, this program has great potential for making the community nonprofits that you support into stronger and more resilient organizations. Having the skills and knowledge in nonprofit operations, alongside talent and disciplinespecific expertise, is necessary to keep nonprofit organizations from failing. This program will continue to evolve as more needs become evident. In the meantime, the following quotes show how well the program is working for current students:

“Being around students who are currently working in the non-profit sector has been encouraging and inspiring.” “I feel as though I have learned so much from these classes. When I bring up ideas that were discussed in class, most coworkers haven’t heard of them.” “The Intro to Nonprofit Organizations course has really helped me to gain a broader understanding of the nonprofit world, the role of a board, how to read a budget, and it also pushed me to complete a project that has already benefited my career!” “I have already been able to motivate my board of directors to be more engaged with one another.” If you are interested in knowing more about the nonprofit arena, or are looking for a career change that will lead you to a role in nonprofit leadership, you can go to www.rrcc.edu/nonprofit. You can also learn about the scholarships that are available for this program. The scholarships build capacity in middle-to-small size nonprofits by supporting professional development. Tariana Navas-Nieves, Director of Cultural Affairs of Denver Arts and Venues, says “This program supports the development of leaders in the nonprofit sector, in particular, those that are engaging our community through arts, culture, and science.”

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – ngazette.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING Sign Up Soon For Wheat Ridge Police’s Popular Dog Walker Watch Class, Dec. 11 The Wheat Ridge Police Department launched a new program last year called National Dog Walker Watch designed for dog walkers to help deter crime in their neighborhoods. The next Dog Walker Watch training class is planned for Tuesday, Dec. 11, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the police department, 7500 W. 29th Ave. The free class is open to Wheat Ridge residents and dogs must be licensed. Space is limited, so register soon. “Who better to know what’s going on in a neighborhood than someone who walks through it every day,” said Wheat Ridge Police Chief Dan Brennen. “This training class offers residents education on how to identify suspicious behavior and when it should be reported to police. Residents and their four-legged friends walk the neighborhood sometimes multiple times a day, and if something or someone is out of place, they will probably recognize it sooner than a police officer on patrol. If your instincts are telling you something doesn’t look right it probably isn’t.” The Dog Walker Watch Training is designed to help increase awareness for suspicious behavior or activity and determine what should be reported to police. Dog guardians/owners who attend training (dogs can stay home) will be presented with a certificate signed by Chief Brennan. Those participating in training will also receive a special scarf for their four-legged companion to wear as they “patrol” the neighborhood on their daily walks identifying them as an Honorary WRPD K-9. According to the Humane Society of the United States and the ASPCA, there are more

than 75 million dog owners across the nation. Dozens, if not hundreds, of neighbors are walking their dog throughout the community at all times of the day, all days of the week, in all weather conditions. Dog Walker Watch encourages these neighbors to assist local law enforcement as extra eyes and ears while out walking their dog. The program enhances the partnership between police and community while providing resources so neighbors can be more aware and learn how to effectively observe and report suspicious activity. Pet guardians/owners can register for the WRPD Dog Walker Watch training class at ci.wheatridge.co.us/WRPDDogWatch.

Need Affordable Housing? Sunshine Home Share Needs You Looking for an affordable housing option? Sunshine Home Share Colorado is looking for you, to pair you with a senior who has living space to share at home. The innovative nonprofit currently has 14 home providers looking to share their homes. Sunshine’s model aims to provide seniors with affordable support services that will allow them to stay in their homes. That’s done by matching them with people seeking affordable housing who are willing to provide those services (and pay rent) as part of a mutually beneficial homesharing agreement. When a successful match is made, senior homeowners can minimize social isolation and improve their economic stability, and the home-seeker gains affordable housing. Sunshine’s current average rent price is $600 a month with minimal service exchange. For more information or to make referrals call 303-915-8264 or email Alison@ sunshinehomeshare.org, or visit sunshinehomeshare.org.

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Four Seasons Market, 7043 W. 38th Ave., will host a variety of special events in the coming weekends. Want to see how to mill your own flour at home? Saturday, Nov. 17, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Paul Lebeau, president of Wolfgang Mock, Inc., will demonstrate how his company’s Mockmill works with a variety of grains and other millables, and share why people make flour at home. Four Seasons will celebrate its third anniversary the following Saturday, Nov. 24 – Small Business Saturday – from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring a dish to share at the potluck lunch at 11:30 a.m., or the potluck dessert at 12:30 p.m. There will be door prizes, a scrapbook to share your memories in, and more. The Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair will take place Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 1 and 2, as part of the City of Wheat Ridge Holiday Celebration. Vendors will offer offering a range of wares, from T-shirts to handmade pillows, from alpaca wool scarves and socks to Victorian jewelry, from greeting cards to gift baskets of locally produced food. Native Bees, a bee-house-building workshop, takes place Saturday, Dec. 15, from 10 a.m. till noon; fee is $25 per house, registration required. Music performed by Adam Peake with Oak can be heard from 12:30 till 1:30 p.m. Four Seasons Farmers and Artisans Market is open year round, Market Days every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with Open Shop Days Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesdays through Fridays, noon to 6 p.m. Find more information or RSVP at www. fourseasonsfam.com.

Give To The Christmas Child Shoebox Gift Collection Through Nov. 19 Wheat Ridge families can donate colorfully-wrapped shoebox gifts to be sent to children around the world now through Nov. 19, when Operation Christmas Child's National Collection Week concludes. Locally, donations can be made at Crossroads Church, 9901 W. 50th Ave., Wheat Ridge, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Saturday, Nov. 18, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 19. The Samaritan’s Purse project collects shoebox gifts filled with toys, school supplies and hygiene items, which are delivered to children affected by war, disease, disaster, poverty and famine. Participants can donate $9 per shoebox gift online through "Follow Your Box" and receive a tracking label to discover its destination. Those who prefer the convenience of online shopping can browse a specific age and gender, then finish packing the virtual shoebox by adding a photo and personal note of encouragement. For more information on how to participate in Operation Christmas Child or to view gift suggestions, visit samaritanspurse.org/ occ.

Stop In For A Break At Memory Café, Nov. 21 The Wheat Ridge Memory Café at Ye Olde Firehouse, 3232 Depew St., is a welcoming place for people living with memory loss and their caregivers, held Wednesday, Nov. 21, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. This ongoing monthly series presented by the Alzheimer’s Association invites you to gather to relax and socialize with others while enjoying a cup of coffee, a fun activity, or a brief presentation. It’s suitable for adults, 60+. Mark your calendar for next month’s event, Wednesday, Dec. 19, also 1 to 2:30 p.m. For more information, contact the Wheat Ridge Library at 303-235-5275.

American Legion Auxiliary Hosts Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair, Dec. 1 American Legion Post 161 Auxiliary will host a Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair and Holiday Bake Sale, Saturday, Dec. 1, at the Post, 6230 W. 60th, Arvada, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. For more information, visit https:// alp161.org.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING Continued from page 14

Caroling, Cookies and White Elephants At Baugh House, Dec. 8 Wheat Ridge Historical Society will host its second annual holiday celebration event on Saturday, Dec. 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the historic Baugh House at 44th and Robb Street. Folks are invited to “bring your singing voice, packaged cookies and a white elephant gift to exchange with your neighbor” at the Society’s monthly Second Saturday event. For more information, visit WheatRidgeHistoricalSociety.org or e-mail WRHistorical@gmail.com.

Final Fall BYOB(ook) Book Groups Meet At Local Breweries, Dec. 10 & 12 The season’s wrapping up for Jefferson County Public Library’s new alternative take on the traditional book groups. BYOB(ook) Group is a monthly, themed book group meeting at Westfax Brewing Company, 6733 W. Colfax Ave., in Lakewood, on the second Wednesday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m., and a second group at Wheat Ridge’s Colorado Plus Brew Pub, 6995 W. 38th Ave., on the second Monday. People come prepared to talk about books that fall into the given theme in a casual setting and enjoy happy-hour prices, then leave with book recommendations for the rest of their fall reading. The final date and theme at WestFax is Dec. 12, a book with a cover you hate. The Wheat Ridge group’s final date and theme is a book of 21st-century poetry, Dec. 10.

Visit jeffcolibrary.org for information.

Don’t Be A Victim Of Porch Piracy This Holiday Season The Wheat Ridge Police Department is warning all that “Porch Pirates” are out to ruin the holidays by stealing packages left by delivery services on the front porch. To scuttle these scallywags’ shenanigans, WRPD offers the following tips for ways to secure mail and packages this holiday season: • USPS offers email notification for mail and packages that are arriving. Sign up for these alerts and ask a trusted neighbor to retrieve them until arriving home. • Have the post office hold packages and pick them up when convenient. • Ask employers to use the office address for package deliveries. • Drop bills or gift checks being mailed to family off at the post office • Don’t leave bills, and other packages in the mailbox with the flag up – that’s just an invitation to thieves. • Be alert. Report to local law enforcement any suspicious behavior, strangers or cars that don’t belong in the neighborhood. Write down the license plate number or take a photo of cars that aren’t familiar or that appear to be watching homes in a neighborhood.

Check It Out: Wheat Ridge Library’s Holiday Activities And More Holiday parties, book clubs, storytimes and tech help are being offered at the Wheat Ridge Library, 5475 W. 32nd Ave., in the coming weeks. Embrace the spirit of the season at Holiday Open House and Kids Craft Party, and open house with refreshments and

crafts for the kids, Saturday, Dec. 15, from noon to 4 p.m. The Rocky Mountain Ukulele Orchestra will perform from 1 to 3 p.m. Open to all ages. Babies, preschoolers and toddlers are invited to shake those wiggles out and have some fun building little brains in Let's Dance!, a Play & Learn activity, Saturday, Dec. 8, from 2 to 3 p.m. Free. Get personalized technology assistance and instruction from one experts on your own device or a library computer during Drop In Tech Help, Monday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m. till noon. Suitable for adults. The book group will discuss “Before We Were Yours,” Lisa Wingate’s 2017 novel set in Memphis in 1939 about 12-year-old Rill Foss and her four younger siblings being taken from their family’s Mississippi River shanty boat and placed in an orphanage after their mother is rushed to the hospital one night. Meets Thursday, Dec. 20, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. – before the library opens, so first-time participants please call 303235-5275 for entry instructions. Suitable for adults. For more information, call 303-2355275 or visit jeffcolibrary.org.

Police Offer Tips For Holiday Shopping Safety Holiday shopping is stressful enough with crowds and traffic in addition to trying to stick to the budget. Wheat Ridge Police suggest staying safe should be a priority as shoppers are checking off the gift list this holiday season.

While shopping:

• Parked vehicles can be a prime target for thieves. They often will break windows or punch locks to gain access to items left in plain view. Open windows and unlocked doors also make cars an easy target. To help reduce the risk of theft from inside vehicles,

always lock the doors, even if just running into a store quickly, and be sure to put the car windows up when leaving it unattended. • Park vehicles in well-lit, high-traffic areas and away from larger vehicles or shrubs that might hide the activity of thieves. Thieves target cars parked in isolated areas in order to “work” without drawing attention • Do not keep any items — including a purse or wallet, cell phone, computer bag or gift bags — in plain sight as clearly visible items can catch the eye of a thief. Be sure to stow and secure all items prior to leaving the car. Also, be sure to remove any portable accessories, such as GPS units and stereo faceplates, when leaving the car. • Be aware of the surroundings while walking to the car. • Don’t’ fill arms with bags or packages. Keep a hand free for keys and access to opening the car door. • Don’t talk on the cell phone or text while walking. Not only is that dangerous, staying alert and watchful walking to the car may help identify suspicious behavior or someone who could be a threat. • Lock the car doors once inside, especially if making a call or checking messages before heading home.

While at home:

• Keep doors and windows locked, especially when going to bed or leaving the house. • Cut shrubs back around windows and doors so neighbors are able to view anyone trying to access the home when the residents aren’t there. • Use timers for randomly placed lighting so it appears someone is home, even when residents are on vacation. Set timers for outdoor lighting instead of leaving porch lights on for days or weeks when on vacation. • Cancel newspaper delivery and have the post office or a neighbor collect mail and packages.

Colorado Gives Day — December 4 Colorado Gives Day is coming up on Tuesday December 4th. It’s a great opportunity to find all of your favorite non-profit organizations on one site. This single day unites Coloradans in a common goal to strengthen the state’s non-profits. All donations are tax deductible and the online process is simple and quick. Help us to grow and expand our arts district and continue the revitalization of the West Colfax corridor! Momentum is strong but we still need your help. We exist to further the artistic movement in this corridor and every single dollar you give gets poured back into this area to grow West Colfax!

Red Herring Art Supply

westcolfax.org

40westarts.org

EDGE Gallery

7001 W. Colfax • 303-477-7173 www.edgeart.org

Mint & Serif Coﬀee House 11500 W Colfax Ave 720-509-9908 mintandserif.com

d orh o o b h g i e Th e N rc e ! u Ar t S o

1492 Ammons St. 720-437-0638 cc360denver.com

720-427-5339 www.RedHerringArt.com

6731 W. Colfax Ave • 303-980-0625 lakewoodarts.org

Gallery of 303-980-1111 • cpavalue.com

Everything

Lakewood’s Affordable Art Store

6719 W. Colfax Ave. • 720-883-8132 (next door to Casa Bonita) • Open Thu-Sun 11-7

6719 W. Colfax Avenue next to Casa Bonita, in the Gallery of Everything

Lakewood Arts Council

NEXT Gallery

6851 W.Colfax Ave, Unit B • 303-433-4933 nextartgallerydenver.com

40+ Artists, Art Supplies, Collectibles and more Handpainted & antique furniture Gift certiﬁcates & Lay-a-way

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 14 – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – ngazette.com

WHEAT RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL

Who’s Your Farmer? Laura Harper 2012 – Medical Student “Wheat Ridge gave me the educational foundation to build upon and was where I learned my study skills that got me into Medical school! WR is where I learned what I was capable of, made friends, and had the time of my life.”

Maribel Gallegos Rivera 2009 – Software Engineer/ Charles Schwab “I cannot be more grateful for the teachers and coaches that I had while at WR. Their continuous support and encouragement to push my limits was the root of all of my successes today. Wheat Ridge prepared me day in and day out by challenging me academically, letting me explore. Having options and a clear path made it easy for me to continue to further my education.”

Mark Landes 2000 – VP Technology/Green Chef “From being a Farmer I learned about achieving my goals, the work needed to achieve my goals and the rewards that can come from that hard work. I learned about being part of a team – invaluable as nothing great can be done alone.“

Wheat Ridge High School has a long legacy of producing leaders. From business owners to Broadway celebrities, NFL stars to nurse practitioners, many highly accomplished professionals in all kinds of fields began their journeys as Wheat Ridge Farmers. Our school may be smaller than some of those around us but we see that as a benefit. When a student comes to Wheat Ridge, they are embraced by our community particularly the adults in the building. Truth be told one of our key strengths is our amazing staff – including teachers, administrators, counselors and paraprofessionals – who come to work every day committed to do what’s best for our students. Wheat Ridge offers its students plenty of “big school” opportunities to shine. We have a broad selection of Honors and AP classes designed to keep students challenged. If that’s not enough, our Gifted and Talented Center is nationally recognized; our award winning STEM/STEAM program is the envy of the district, and our unique Career Explore program prepares students to succeed in today’s dynamic, ever-changing jobs scene. The innovative spirit that gave rise to these exceptional programs permeates throughout our school, even with our more traditional classes where teachers leverage their knowledge to craft innovative lessons intended to bring out the best in individual students. Of course, not all learning is confined to a classroom. Wheat Ridge offers dozens of clubs and varsity sports so students are able to round out their high school experience and even try something new. The options for learning and growing are virtually endless. Interested in finding out more? Please stop by the school, send me an email or give me a call. I’d love to talk with you about how WRHS can meet the needs of your student and then some. Farmers Forever, Josh Cooley, Principal

VISIT

9505 W 32nd Avenue Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

FOLLOW CALL (303) 982-7695 WEB wheatridge.jeﬀcopublicschools.org heat Ridge WR W Community CF Foundation

Cultivating Excellence. Come Join Us.