Neighborhood Gazette – December 2018 by Neighborhood Gazette

WHEAT RIDGE MAYOR Time To Tally Up Our City’s Accomplishments Page 4

SCHOOL CROSSING Prospect Valley Gets A Brand New Building! Page 7

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS Residents Have Their Say In Revitalizing Neighborhoods Page 13

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WHEAT RIDGE | APPLEWOOD | MOUNTAIN VIEW | LAKESIDE | BERKELEY December 17, 2018 – January 14, 2019 • ngazette.com • FREE

Street Extension Nixed, Rights Of Way Sought For Ward Station Development n By

Mike McKibbin

erhaps heeding the words and pleas from affected residents, Wheat Ridge City Council has decided against a proposed street extension project. It would have been included in the city’s Wheat Ridge/Ward light rail station planning area, one of four projects in the city’s “Investing 4 the Future” $12 million bond program, funded by a voterapproved, temporary half-cent sales and use tax rate hike. Mark Westberg, the city’s project supervisor, said at a Nov. 19 city council study session the area focused on for improvements is generally on 52nd Avenue east from Ward Road to Tabor Street, and between Ridge and Ward roads. The area is unique, with boundaries of Wheat Ridge, Arvada and Jefferson County all intersecting nearby. About six to seven projects are at various stages of development in the area, spurred on by the Ward station and its 290 parking spaces, Westberg noted. Westberg asked the council if they wanted the city to extend 52nd east of Tabor to the proposed Haskins Station project in Arvada. The Haskins project has received Continued on page 6

CAROLERS AND OTHER REVELERS HERALDED THE START OF THE HOLIDAYS at the Dec. 1 Ridge on 38th Holiday Celebration at 7101 W 38th Ave. A collaboration of Localworks and the City of Wheat Ridge, the annual celebration featured the lighting of a 250-foot evergreen tree, Santa, arts, crafts for kids, hot cocoa, carolers and more. PHOTO COURTESY OF LOCALWORKS

Clearing The Smoke Over Youth E-Cigarette Use In Wheat Ridge n By

Mike McKibbin

ell over a quarter of Wheat Ridge High School students have used electronic cigarettes and nearly two-thirds think it would not be hard to obtain those increasingly controversial tobacco products, according to recent survey results. E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices in many shapes and sizes that produce an aerosol by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings and other chemicals. E-cigarettes are known by different names, such as Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS), e-hookah, vape pen, mod, JUUL, tanks and vapes. JUULs are one of the most popular vaping products among youth. Although e-cigarettes are less toxic than traditional cigarettes, they are not considered safe. Results from a Healthy Kids Colorado survey were included in a Dec. 6 presentation to more than a dozen school staff and parents about e-cigarette and marijuana use as part of the school’s Breathe Easy, or BE, team program, sponsored by Jefferson County Public Schools and Jefferson County Public Health. BE teams are high school clubs focused on preventing tobacco and substance use in their schools and communities. Along with the teams (other district high schools with BE teams are Lakewood and Jefferson), outreach includes training school staff and parents how to educate students and communities about the risks of teen vaping. School nurse Rhonda Valdez said survey results for Wheat Ridge High School were based on responses from 267 students, or 21 percent of the student population. Those results found 37 percent of students had used an e-cigarette within the last 30 days,

67 percent think it would easy to get an e-cigarette, even though 43 percent perceive such use as risky. Sarah Boland, a data specialist in the health department’s tobacco prevention initiative, said student e-cigarette users in Jefferson County were 9.5 times more likely to have used marijuana in the past 30 days, 8.8 times more likely to have participated in binge drinking of alcohol in the past 30 days and 8.6 times more likely to have used prescription drugs illegally. Boland said the vaping and marijuana use results are higher

than the statewide numbers. Use by youths who identify as LGBTQ was higher than heterosexual kids, too, Allyson Howe, a youth engagement specialist in the health department’s tobacco prevention initiative, added. “Last year, we found use by students who were from higher-income families, too,” Valdez noted. In an earlier interview, Donna Viverette, health promotion supervisor for the health department, noted data for e-cigarette and tobacco use in district schools was about the

same as statewide numbers. For instance, 27 percent of high school students said they had used an e-cigarette or tobacco product at last once in the past 30 days, while 40 to 45 percent said they had used at least some of those products at least once. Viverette said the survey also found students do not perceive e-cigarettes as harmful and they expected to use them at some time, so the potential for higher student usage may exist. Continued on page 2

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

One Of ‘The Greatest Generation’ Still Going Strong At 92 n By

Elisabeth Monaghan

ny time a community loses one of its older servicemen or women without ever hearing their personal stories is a tragedy. According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs statistics, fewer than 500,000 of the 16 million Americans who served in World War II are alive today. With about 370 World War II veterans dying daily, we are rapidly losing those who belong to what television journalist and author Tom Brokaw referred to as “the Greatest Generation.” With each life lost also go the tales of those who grew up during the Great Depression and then served in the military or contributed to the war effort in some other way. Fortunately, for Wheat Ridge, there is at least one community member who represents the Greatest Generation. William Peterson, who will turn 93 in February, has lived with his wife, Ardath, in Wheat

WORLD WAR II VETERAN WILLIAM PETERSON, 93, OF WHEAT RIDGE, was awarded the China War Memorial Medal this September at the Wheat Ridge All Veterans’ Memorial in Hayward Park. Retired Maj. Gen. Mason C. Whitney (left) presented the medal for Peterson’s service in 1945 as a Flying Tiger with the 375th Heavy BomContinued on page 6 bardment Squadron. PHOTO COURTESY WILLIAM PETERSON

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – ngazette.com

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Dear Editor, Thank you for your article bringing attention to services for those in need, especially the homeless (“So Many Homeless … And Winter Is Coming,” Nov. 14-Dec. 17, 2018 Neighborhood Gazette). A survey has shown that there are 3,000 homeless students in Jefferson County, many staying with relatives or friends, or in motels. This would surprise many Jeffco citizens, I am sure. I must disagree with the statement that there are many shelters for homeless in Jefferson County, as the ones listed are for specific clientele only. Shelters and services eight miles away in Denver are often just too far away. If you haven't already, perhaps you could feature a separate article to share the importance of The Action Center in Lakewood, which serves all of Jefferson County. This program, founded 50 years ago, offers a well-stocked food bank, a clothing bank, household and personal care items, school supplies, toys at Christmas, meals at Thanksgiving, vouchers for IDs, showers, driver's license, birth certificates. It partners with Jefferson County Human Services, Jeffco Business and Workforce Center, Education and Certification Support, and Health and Benefits Support. It offers counseling for rental and utility assistance, and has a Self-Sufficiency Pathways Program to help individuals make changes in their lives towards greater stability. More publicity for this vital resource would surely bring in more financial support and volunteers. The Family Promise agency provides temporary shelter, meals and counseling to families by using existing facilities like churches which rotate weeks to provide support. See familypromise.org/programs/ core-program/ Arvada Rising Church is now providing a day shelter with meals. Thank you again for your article. Let’s keep this issue of homelessness out there, and work together to make a difference.

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Carol Kalmes, Wheat Ridge Editor’s note: See “Who Is Providing Shelter And Help To Our Homeless?” in this edition, pg 16.

Grateful For Teen Suicide Column Dear Guy Nahmiach, I wanted to thank you for your piece written in the Neighborhood Gazette (“Why Is Our Teen Suicide Rate Twice The National Average?” Oct. 16-Nov. 14, 2018). My son took his life on Oct. 11, 2018. You may have heard of him or of my husband and I. Robbie was a sophomore at Lakewood, a happy, successful student and athlete. My husband and I were actually at parentteacher conferences when Robbie took his life. Our world has been taken from us and we decided within hours to do something about this epidemic in Colorado. If this can happen to us it can happen to anyone and it shouldn’t. Teens consider suicide a option – it isn’t. We have shared our story on 9 News with Kim Christensen the last week of October and we’ve been on Colorado Public Radio. We aren’t stopping. We have established a foundation in Robbie’s memory to cut suicide in our state by 50 percent within the next 10 years. We are meeting with area teens and discovering the options to fight suicide and teen depression daily. Our website isn’t fully up, but will be soon. It is www.robbies-hope.com. We are active on social media (that is what the teens use more than anything) Insta is robbieshope1. If you ever want to chat or if you run across someone who is passionate about helping solve this problem please keep us in mind and reach out. Again thanks for speaking out on this. If we can change the conversation and stigma we can change the problem. Kari Eckert, Lakewood Have a comment? Contact Managing Editor J. Patrick O’Leary at editor@ngazette.com, or Publisher Tim Berland at tberland@ngazette.com.

E-cigarette companies have been criticized for allegedly marketing their products to youth, especially through social media, Howe said. What she called “intentional” marketing strategies included slogans such as “love your lungs,” “made for adults to help quit smoking,” and encouraging “stealth” vaping, since e-cigarettes do not produce much smoke or vapor and can’t be smelled. Many brands offer flavored varieties as well, Howe noted, another enticement for youth to use the products. Last year’s Wheat Ridge BE team “really sounded the alarm” about the use of e-cigarettes by students, Viverette said. “They said we really needed to do something because the JUULing was getting out of control,” she added. That led to an informational video about the growing risk of teen vaping. “We think it really engages young people in a way to have a voice and raise awareness about tobacco and other related issues in school,” Viverette said. Last year’s team also made presentations to community health care providers to stress the need to screen their young patients for the use of e-cigarettes since they felt it was an epidemic, Viverette added. This year’s 12-member team has taken part in a youth advocacy workshop, she said. Howe noted this year’s team was learning how to make tobacco use a social justice issue and how it contributes to the common characteristics of certain demographics. Next semester, the team is to choose an overall project, Howe added. The curriculum-based program has previously had teams conduct peer-topeer interviews, walking surveys in school hallways and present their findings, Howe noted.

ngazette.com – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – ngazette.com

Wheat Ridge Historical Society’s

WHEAT RIDGE MAYOR

SECOND SATURDAY EVENTS MONTHLY! 10 am to 2 pm at the Baugh House – 44th & Robb St.

Time To Tally Up Our City’s Accomplishments underway around the city. In other council action, construction hours were addressed, small scale cell sites s the calendar year draws to a close, my were approved but free-standing emergency first as mayor, it’s time to look back at rooms were not, and the sign code was the year in review. I presided over about 22 updated to comply with new Supreme Court city council meetings and a similar number decisions. The cultural vision for the city of study sessions and want to express my was restated, electrical fences thanks to council members were approved with conditions, and city staff for working with and support for a state-wide me to set a tone of efficiency, ban on conversion therapy was cooperation, courtesy and endorsed. Support was provided respect which has allowed us for The Action Center providing to move through the necessary withdrawal management work of city government. services to continue to serve We saw the entitlement our residents. To address the process through for the new increased demand for building Clear Creek Crossing project department reviews and on the old Cabella’s site west inspections and provide better of I-70 in the Applewood area, Bud Starker service, the city contracted with which will bring us new retail, an outside professional firm residential and employment specializing in this work. opportunities. Council also approved At every public meeting, council heard rezoning efforts at Base Camp, the Transit from residents and business owners on a Oriented Development near the G Line as wide variety of topics: affordable housing, we continue to wait for approvals to open Accessory Dwelling Units and short-term this new commuter rail line. Council was rentals; building heights, bulk plane and selective in its development approvals baseball; mental health, healthy eating/ around the city, looking favorably on some active living, the effects of marijuana, well-conceived in-fill projects, but sending smoking, and vaping on our community. some back for future consideration. We supported a state-wide transportation We saw the opening of Lucky’s grocery funding question on the ballot and received store and new retail shops at 38th and approval from city voters to retain excess Wadsworth as construction continues on 2E bond revenues for reinvestment into that site. Close by, West End 38 started those projects, and approval to provide construction as an anchor to the 38th city Internet services, though this is not on Avenue redevelopment, and commercial the horizon. A community-wide process activity continues at Applewood Shopping Center. Council supported legislation to Continued on page 15 further implement the four 2E bond projects n By

Bud Starker

January 12 – Happy 50th Birthday Wheat Ridge!

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LOCALWORKS UPDATE The Value Of Volunteering time according to the Independent Sector). We like to say we are volunteer powered, staff supported, and Board directed. Our uring the holiday season, we come volunteers believe in Localworks’ mission together to express gratitude for of advancing Wheat Ridge as a vibrant and the wonderful things in our lives. From sustainable community, and they show achievements to favorite memories, it’s a their commitment to this mission through time to celebrate the successes of the year. their volunteerism. In the spirit of the season, Localworks would This year, Localworks like to share our appreciation for volunteers contributed to the our amazing 2018 volunteers. success of all our events. We While volunteering helps had volunteers that coordinated many organizations with a weekly run club. A few folks growing needs, you may not helped families make over be aware that it also helps you 500 s’mores at Wheat Ridge’s mentally and physically. A recent Holiday Celebration. Others study conducted by Carnegie contributed to the safety and Mellon University found that success of the Criterium by adults over the age of 50 who directing foot traffic across the volunteered regularly were less race course. likely to develop high blood Our volunteers also sit pressure than non-volunteers. Carolyn Doran on committees and our board A report by the Corporation of directors, which guide the organization. for National and Community Service states We have nearly 100 people a month sitting that “volunteering leads to better health … at the conference table in our office for those who volunteer have lower mortality various meetings. It is always refreshing to rates, greater functional ability and lower hear new ideas and see people step up to rates of depression later in life than those support Localworks and the Wheat Ridge who do not volunteer.” community. Additionally, studies have shown Whether you are a current Localworks volunteering helps you feel more socially volunteer or looking to get involved in connected, gives you a sense of purpose, and future volunteer opportunities, you are brings more fun and fulfillment to your life. invited to attend the Volunteer Happy Hour It can even advance your career. on Wednesday, Jan. 30, from 5:30 to 7:30 Localworks is grateful to our volunteers p.m., at Discovery Tap House, 4990 Kipling for the time and energy they contribute to St., Suite 7. Come join us for appetizers, a our mission. In 2018, we had 162 volunteers drink and great conversation! devote 2,400 hours of volunteering. That Carolyn Doran is the Events Manager equals over $59,000 in donated time ($24.69 at Localworks. per hour is the estimated value of volunteer n By

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ngazette.com – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

WHEAT RIDGE HISTORICAL Happy 50th Birthday Wheat Ridge! n By

Janet “White” Bradford

he Wheat Ridge Historical Society will start this new year with a celebration of the founding of our city. Fifty years ago in 1969, Louise Turner, the local Grange members and the fire department plus many others worked hard to start our city so that we would not be annexed by Denver. Wheat Ridge locals were proud of their Jefferson County school system and did not want to put their children in the Denver School district. So the necessary paperwork was started with locals lining up in the rain to sign the petition to become a city. This was done in one day. Two weeks later with the threat of annexation by Denver, “Lakewood” followed suit to become Jefferson City which was later renamed. Everyone is welcome to our Second Saturday event on Jan. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We will have historic talks, cake and tours of the Baugh house at 44th and Robb Street. Historical books and old-time toys are available for purchase. Enjoy craft demonstrations and sales, plus music from local musicians. Stop by to learn more about our local history. The Wheat Ridge Historical Society invites you to learn more about local history at the Historical Park at 4610 Robb St. any Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Our tour guides bring to life the stories behind the historical buildings and artifacts

from our agricultural beginnings. Tours are only $2 per person. We offer group tours with advanced notice. Call 303-421-9111 for more information. The Historical Society meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Red Brick Museum. Join us for Historical talks and snacks at the beginning of these fun informative meetings. The Wheat Ridge Quilt Circle meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Cost is $2. Bring a project and lunch if you want. All crafters welcome. Our Knit/Crochet Group meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 7 to 9 p.m. Cost is $2. Fourth Saturday Project Day will be at either the Historical Park or at the Baugh house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We tackle projects indoors and outdoors while enjoying snacks and historical tidbits. Check our Facebook page for updates on this community service which is open to all. Come by for 30 minutes, an hour or two, all help is greatly appreciated! Future dates are Jan. 26, Feb. 23, and March 23. Upcoming Second Saturday Events include Sweethearts & Craft Arts (February), Purple & Green Party (March) and Earth Day – Yard Sale (April). For more information email wrhistorical@gmail.com or check our website www. wheatridgehistoricalsociety.org.

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West Metro’s initial response includes an ambulance, an engine and a District Chief – a total of at least six firefighters, as on-scene care is critical. Many times, paramedics are not only performing CPR, but also running diagnostic tests and administering medication – procedures that occur before the patient is transported to the emergency room. The Mission: Lifeline initiative was launched in 2007, and is focused on advancing the system of care for patients with acute, high-risk time sensitive life and/ or quality of life threatening disease states, such as heart attacks and strokes, with the goal of improving and regionalizing systems across the country. Ronda Scholting is the West Metro Fire Rescue Communications/Media Relations Specialist.

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Peterson Continued from page 1

Ridge since 1961. Many of the faculty for and parents of students attending Jefferson County high schools may be familiar with Peterson because he coached Little League. Perhaps people know Peterson through one of his five children, who attended school in the area. (His son Chris was a star basketball player and earned a spot in the Jefferson County Athletics Hall of Fame.) Many know Peterson from hearing him speak at area high schools about his experiences during World War II. Peterson can talk enthusiastically for hours about his secrets to longevity and happiness, the successful insurance business he created (and where he still works fulltime), or the family he and Ardath raised in Wheat Ridge. These are popular subjects with Peterson, but it his time serving as a tail gunner with the Flying Tigers during the China War that he especially loves to talk about because so few actually know the story. “I talk to these students who are 15, 16 years old,” explains Peterson. “Some don’t even know where China is, but there was a war in China. Many people died there,” adds Peterson. For those who may not be familiar with it, the second Sino-Japanese War was a military conflict between China and Japan that took place in 1937, near the Marco Polo Bridge, outside of what is now Beijing. This dispute between China and Japan eventually merged with the rest of the battles taking place during World War II. One of the reasons Peterson emphasizes the significance of the United States working alongside the Chinese to battle the Japanese is because he believes it is a testament of goodwill between China and the United States. “When we went over to China, we helped the Chinese fight and push the Japanese out of Burma and out of China, and we taught them how to fly …. We helped them. We fought right next to them. Now we’re fighting with China. We have all this news about the tariffs, and I never see it come up when someone reminds the Chinese, ‘Hey, Guys, remember, we did help you out once. We’re not so bad…’” Peterson says that had it not been for the help from the allies, there may not be a China today. Perhaps, if the Chinese and Americans could recall the successful alliance we formed those many years ago, it might help us restore our relationship. After holding a few different jobs and living in different locations, Peterson and his wife eventually settled in Colorado, where Peterson launched the insurance agency he runs out of his home. Because he dropped out of high school at age 17 to enlist in the military, Peterson spent much of his adult life without a high school diploma. This was something that nagged at him. It was also something he was able to remedy years later, when in 2003, with the help of Operation Recognition, Peterson was awarded his diploma. Operation Recognition is a program for veterans, who left high school to join the military during

World War II as well as the wars in Korea and Vietnam. Proudly showing off the class ring he regularly wears, Peterson says he well may have been the oldest student in Jefferson County ever to be awarded a high school diploma. He was 77 at the time. About 18 years ago, Peterson received the Bronze Star for his military service. This past September, he was the recipient of the China War Memorial Medal for his heroic service in 1945 as a Flying Tiger with the 375th Heavy Bombardment Squadron. The ceremony took place at the Wheat Ridge All Veterans’ Memorial in Hayward Park. Retired Maj. Gen. Mason C. Whitney presented Peterson with his medal. Given his service during World War II, it would be understandable if Peterson were to retire from community participation, but he has not finished serving. In addition to speaking at high schools throughout Jefferson County and to different veterans’ organizations around metro Denver, Peterson also is considering writing a book on how senior citizens can navigate some of the greatest challenges they may encounter in their old age. For example, Peterson offers the simple tip for seniors to double-tie their shoes to avoid tripping and falling. Also, if an older person walks with a portable oxygen tank, Peterson reminds them to be sure the tube and any other hanging parts are behind them where they won’t get in the way. When it comes to why Peterson has lived a long and healthy life, he says it may be attributed to eating raw onions almost daily, which he has done for decades. (He is especially fond of peanut butter and

Ward Station Continued from page 1

preliminary approval from Arvada City Council for 477 units of various housing types. The 52nd road extension would eventually connect to 54th Avenue in Arvada and serve as a collector street in both jurisdictions. Jeffrey Burg lives at the corner of 52nd and Swadley Street and urged council against negatively impacting his neighborhood “by shoehorning 3,000-plus cars a day down a new expressway from Ward along 52nd, through the middle of an established residential neighborhood.” His wife, Connie Burg, said she “shouldn’t be forced to give up my property and quality of life because the city of Wheat Ridge failed to properly oversee (Regional Transportation District) designs and get (Colorado Department of Transportation) approvals.” Gary Duncan of Arvada called traffic in the area a “nightmare.” “There are at least three projects in Arvada and Wheat Ridge that all feed into Ward Road,” he noted. “If my math is right, there will be over 2,700 multi-family units planned along Ridge Road from Ward to 52nd and Kipling. The developers are in control. We’re already seeing people cut through our streets and we have no sidewalks.” In a memo to council, Wheat Ridge

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WORLD WAR II VETERAN WILLIAM PETERSON, 93, OF WHEAT RIDGE, was awarded the China War Memorial Medal this September at the Wheat Ridge All Veterans’ Memorial in Hayward Park. Peterson and his wife, Ardath (center) are pictured here with their children, Retired Maj. Gen. Mason C. Whitney (far left), Wheat Ridge mayor Bud Starker (left) and State senator-elect Jessie Danielson (far right). PHOTO COURTESY WILLIAM PETERSON

sliced onion sandwiches.) While many may find the thought of mixing raw onions and peanut butter unappetizing, all they have to do is spend time with Peterson to think he may be onto something with his penchant for onions. Another likely reason for Peterson’s good health and longevity could be his marriage. While he quips about fending off “flirty guys” for many of the nearly 70 years they’ve been together, Peterson clearly adores his wife and says at 90, she is still beautiful.

For Peterson, it is an honor to share his experiences and educate younger and older citizens about the history he has witnessed. When anyone shakes his hand and thanks him for his service, Peterson beams with pride, but he also makes it a point to acknowledge those who loaded the guns, folded parachutes, cooked meals or served as mechanics. “They did so much for the rest of us with their support. None of us would be heroes if it weren’t for them.”

staff called the 52nd extension a critical street connection. A traffic study to further demonstrate the need for the connection was underway. CDOT denied a city request for a street light at Ward and Ridge roads because it would be too close to the existing light at 52nd and Ward, Westberg added. Without the 52nd extension, staff was concerned local streets in neighborhoods between Tabor and Simms would be adversely impacted by traffic traveling west on Ridge Road using Swadley and Simms to access 52nd and reach the traffic signal at Ward. Councilman Larry Mathews said he was “amazed” at the billions of dollars spent getting the G Line from downtown Denver to Wheat Ridge and Arvada, but route vehicle traffic from the Ward station parking lot through existing neighborhoods. “It baffles me how they could proceed on the assumption that going through a neighborhood to get rid of their traffic will be a viable option,” Mathews added. Councilman George Pond said he did not want the city to extend 52nd at this time. “The traffic patterns are all pretty speculative right now,” he noted. “Once we see more development happen there, I think we’ll have a better idea which options are the best.” Westberg warned if 52nd was not extended, the added traffic from the light rail station and housing projects either proposed or underway could travel over local streets.

“An extension would impact houses on 52nd, but not the surrounding streets,” he said. Mathews said Arvada should think how development in their city affects Wheat Ridge when it is close to common borders.

Right-of-way To Be Sought For Other Projects

Several of the city Ward station area projects will require the acquisition of right-of-way (ROW) or easements to allow completion, according to the memo. The existing ROW for 52nd east of Tabor is narrow — 35 feet wide — to Simms and narrows to 5 feet east of Simms. The proposed street section has been kept to the minimum width possible at around 40 feet, the memo noted. Between Tabor and Simms, around four to eight feet of additional ROW is needed. City staff proposed acquiring a few feet from three properties on the north side of 52nd. East of Simms, there is also some dispute regarding the ownership and/or use of 30 feet of property that was previously city ROW. The city attorney believed that issue could be resolved during the ROW acquisition process, according to the memo. Westberg stated the city would condemn property only for needed right-of-way, and only after negotiations fail and city council approves the move. To help improve Ridge Road pedestrian and bicycle access, a 300-foot-long sidewalk gap west of Parfet Street was proposed to be included with the Ward Station projects. However, Westberg told council at their Dec. 10 meeting that 2E funds cannot be spent on this project, so it will be proposed for the 2019 capital projects budget. Council approved a $72,139 contract with HDR of Denver for ROW acquisition for five properties along Ridge Road. Westberg said the next steps for the overall project would be to finalize an agreement with Jefferson County and Arvada on cost-sharing for the road improvements in December and January 2019; conduct public outreach and prepare for ROW acquisition in January and February, including meeting with up to five small groups of property owners next to each street, host a public meeting with the county and Arvada to present preliminary plans to the public; decide street width in February; acquire ROW between March and May; prepare construction plans by April; award a construction contract by July; begin work in August and finish it in the spring of 2020.

ngazette.com – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

SCHOOL CROSSING

ASK THE SUPER

Prospect Valley Gets A Brand New Building!

What Will Wheat Ridge Schools Get Out Of 5A & 5B?

meals not only tastier but healthier and more sustainable. Look for my monthly ou heard right: Prospect Valley updates in the Neighborhood Gazette. The Elementary is finally getting a brand first task force meeting was an eye opener: new building. Originally built 1869 at 32nd Learning how our 400 food and nutrition Avenue and Pierson, then rebuilt in 1961 services employees – including certified in its present location, PV has been a huge chefs, registered nutritionists, drivers, draw to families moving into the Applewood servers, etc. – all work together in 141 sites to provide over 4 million meals annually neighborhood of Wheat Ridge. Despite its popularity and academic for our 87,000 students. That includes success, it has been in need of major updates almost a million breakfasts every year, and serving lunch every day to directly related to student safety 30,000 students in a three-hour and learning environment. In time span every day. I struggled fact it is rated as one of the oldest with peanut butter sandwiches and in most need of updates by for two kids – imagine 30,000 the Jeffco building report. Now lunches every day. All of this with 5A and 5B getting voter under the tight federal and approval, PV will move into a county guidelines, controlling brand new building in the fall the exact amount of calories and of 2022. The actual school will sodium – the list goes on. be built where the play field While I was blown away is presently, so students will at the massive scale of this not have to relocate to another Guy Nahmiach operation, our 26-member facility during the construction committee is looking forward to phase. Of course the older building will be breaking down this system and looking at it removed and give way to a new field and from every angle to see how we can increase playground. the number of “customers” in our cafeterias For those that were not aware, most PV and what it would take to make school classrooms do not have doors. This makes it lunches a viable and popular choice for almost impossible to have any kind of quiet these particular eaters and their concerned space as the noise from one class spills over parents. to the ones nearby. They do, however, each You may want to learn more about the have a door to the outside of the school, new enrollment and registration process for which on hot days are sometimes left open schools in Jeffco – not only promoting our and do not follow the current security neighborhood schools, but having families standards. The carpet, while still original making earlier commitments to the school from 1961, was an experiment for DuPont, of their choice. who has since made almost annual visits to Up to now families would sign up to many the school to remove samples for their own schools and made a committed to one late studies. In fact BusinessWire Magazine summer or early fall. This change will help covered the PV carpet in one of their issues. principals budget resources and manage More details will be available as the staff hiring. This will almost eliminate the district moves ahead with the planning. paybacks principals would owe the district You can also call PV principal Beverly when overestimating enrollments. In fact Haynie. She graciously attended the Jeffco many hold back thousands of dollars in Association for Gifted Children holiday their budget in case they end up owing more open house and shared her exciting news. than anticipated. This is a game changer in Other schools in the Wheat Ridge area a very positive way for everyone. For more will also receive funds for improvements, info go to JeffcoPublicSchools.org and look including major remodeling at Everitt up Enroll Jeﬀco. Look for info nights at Middle, Stober Wheat Ridge High. In fact, your local schools. true to their word, the Board of Education Finally, wishing you all festive holidays. made sure that every school in Wheat Ridge May peace, love and laughter fill your homes will financially benefit from this bond. (See and hearts. If you're already working on Dr. Jason Glass’ Ask the Super column, on resolutions for the new year…. share them this page, for more details.) in an email or phone call. I appreciate all In other news, I am excited to be part the feedback I get every month. As always, of the Jeﬀco Nutrition Task Force, thanks for reading. which is evaluating what and how we feed Contact Guy Nahmiach at Guy@Nosour 87,000 students in Jeffco, and making talgicHomes.com or 303-999-5789. n By

Guy Nahmiach

learning, as well as electronic and real curricular materials. Finally, 10 percent will go into early childhood education. We This month’s questions! With over 500 are looking at expanding the sites, hours, million wishes having been granted to and qualifications of the people working the Jeﬀco, what changes or impact can we see district’s preschools. here in Wheat Ridge? Also, what are you Shifting to 5B, the bond which is used for hoping to see under that tree this year? Are construction purposes, Wheat Ridge is going you a sports fanatic or do you obsess over to see an investment in the neighborhood the latest tech gear? What is Jason Glass of $55 million invested in the community’s hoping for this holiday season? schools, possibly more depending Ballot questions 5A and 5B on the bond market. While every will bring significant changes school will be improved through all across Jeffco Public Schools, this bond, major ticket items as well as have a tremendous include a new school for Prospect positive impact on the schools Valley Elementary, a $13 million in Wheat Ridge. renovation for Wheat Ridge High Question 5A will provide School, and major remodels for $33 million (adjusting Everitt Middle School and Stober annually for inflation) to Elementary. Again, every school Jeffco Public Schools. The will get some improvement based Board of education passed a on their needs and the current resolution before the election that directs 50 percent of these Jason E. Glass, Ed.D. condition of their building. This is an exciting time funds to go toward employee to live in Jeffco, to have kids in our schools, compensation, excluding senior district and to work here. We are going to see major administration. This means that our teachers improvements and the future is brighter for and other employees are going to see some our kids and families. Honestly, this was improvement to their compensation. my holiday wish – that this election would The board also directed 20 percent turn out where now we would be getting to of 5A funds to go into school safety and do this kind of meaningful and important security. This will mean improved mental work. Following through on that, and some health, counseling, and school security time to be with my family, are all I ask for supports in our schools. Ten percent of this holiday season. I have many blessings the funds go toward expanding career and in my life and I am grateful for them. technical education, so you can expect Thank you. to see more of this programming, as well Jason E. Glass, Ed.D., is Superintenas an expansion of the district’s fantastic dent & Chief Learner of Jeffco Public Warren Tech programing across Jeffco. Schools; www.jeffcopublicschools.org. Ten percent also goes to curriculum and If you have a question for our superintechnology, so parents can expect to see tendent, please submit it to Guy@Nostalgievery student in Wheat Ridge eventually cHomes.com or call it in to 303-999-5789. having access to their own device for n By

Jason E. Glass, Ed.D.

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function is no longer a place you want to be. A part of celebrating for some is drinking alcohol. A strategy that I suggest to those popular Christmas song by Andy who imbibe is for every alcoholic drink, Williams states that this time of the have a subsequent glass of water. This year is “the most wonderful.” For many, the method can help prevent over-consumption holiday season truly is a joyous time to get and dehydration, which is the number one together with family and friends. However, contributor to a hang-over. There is nothing for others, it is filled with extra demands, wrong with completely abstaining additional stress and dashed from alcohol, especially when expectations. Here are some tips attending a work function, and, about how to make the holidays of course, for those who have an as enjoyable as possible. addiction. • Be realistic about what you With marijuana can afford to purchase for gifts becoming more prevalent at and how much time you can social events, be vigilant about commit to attending and hosting what you are consuming. Like events. Set limits in both areas. a person who has a food allergy, • If you have a modest don’t be afraid to ask the host income or less money than if a particular food or beverage normal, let your family know has cannabis in it. If there are your limitations. Brad Sjostrom unusual items at the dessert table, • If you have limited time and such as florescent gummies or odd-looking limited social stamina, communicate your brownies, there is a chance that they have needs. Often family and friends are satisfied cannabis. If you cannot verify the content, with simply spending time together. Just don’t eat the item. Common symptoms of because you are invited to a social event cannabis ingestion include rapid onset of does not mean you are obligated to attend anxiety, worry, fear and feeling “out-of-it.” or stay for the entire time. For those with conditions such as • Hosting events can be challenging, but depression, anxiety or a substance use again, be clear about your needs. Ask guests disorder, the holiday season can be both high to bring a dish to share. Ask for help. Most risk and high stress. Stick to a routine and people are glad to chip in. don’t put yourself in high-risk situations. For many, holiday preparations are yet Keep the holidays as simple as possible. another thing to do on top of work, family Your post-holiday self will thank you. With and other day-to-day tasks. There is an a little forethought and intentionality, this expectation that one feel happy this time season can certainly be endurable if not the of year, and many harken back to fond “most wonderful time of the year.” memories of childhood holiday bliss. These If you are concerned about substance feelings do not always come, so do your use or emotional distress, please call 303best to let go of the expectation that you are 467-4080. going to feel in the spirit. Getting together Brad Sjostrom is the manager of Adwith family, frankly, can sometimes be the diction Services at West Pines Behavioral opposite of joyous. Know what is in store Health at Lutheran Medical Center. for you and have an exit strategy if a family

n By

Brad Sjostrom, LCSW, MAC

THE GREAT OUTDOORS Keeping The Kids Active Over Winter Break n By

Meghan Godby

lthough the official first day of winter isn’t until Dec. 21, it’s never too early to start thinking of ways to fill your cold weather calendar. This is especially true if you have little ones at home; Jefferson County schools will be on winter break Dec. 24 through Jan. 8. These ideas are perfect for the young and young at heart.

Get Curious

Wondering what’s been lurking in your backyard? Winter is the perfect time to head outdoors and look for animal tracks; flat, smooth snow is the ideal canvas for tiny footprints. While it’s always fun to make guesses at what you’re seeing, consider checking out a field guide at your closest library. Naturetracking.com is another helpful site that can point you in the right direction; there’s even an app available to help you on the go!

Get Crafty

Need a last-minute gift idea, or something to keep the kiddos busy? Head outdoors and collect pinecones! Since they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, they’re perfect for turning into Christmas ornaments or bird feeders. Need some inspiration? Head over to pinterest.com. You’ll find everything from cute and kitschy to more elaborate ornaments that look like a work of art. All you’ll need to get started

is some paint, glue, and basic craft supplies (think felt, pom-poms, beads, etc.).

Host Your Own Winter Games

This is a great way to enjoy the crisp winter air and get your heart pumping in the process. We’re all familiar with snowball fights and snow angels, but there are plenty of other ways to play in the snow. Have a snowman in your backyard? Take turns tossing a hat in the air and see who can get closest to its head. Build a tower of snowballs and take turns trying to knock it over with other snowballs. If you have a little bit more room to work with, play “find the white flag” - simply hide a white flag in the branches and watch as friends and family scramble to find it.

Add Some Color

Crisp, white snow is beautiful, but don’t be afraid to spice it up with some color! Regular old-fashioned food coloring can be added to water which can then be used to “paint” the ice. Try using cookie cutters to create fun designs. You can even fill a spray bottle for a more abstract effect or use straws to blow the water around before it freezes. While outdoor activities abound in Colorado, it never hurts to get back to the basics. With just a few supplies, a sense of humor, and a spark of creativity, you can create fun memories for your family that won’t break the bank.

Have a news tip or story idea? Send it to editor@ngazette.com

A NEW YEAR...A NEW YOU!

ngazette.com – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

FITNESS CORNER Emotional vs. Physical Hunger: How To Nourish Without Food stimulation.” Try reading a good book, engaging in deep conversation, or starting a s we move further into the holiday puzzle. season, more of our activities surround • Social: “I crave connection.” Try giving food. For many of us, this is a time to a hug, calling a friend or family member, or volunteering. celebrate by enjoying seasonal • Creative: “I crave foods and spending time with expression.” Try painting or people we may not regularly drawing, making a craft, or see. However, this time of year trying a new recipe. can also be incredibly stressful • Spiritual: “I crave and may leave many resorting to meaning.” Try praying, eating as a coping mechanism. meditating, or talking with Emotional eating is typically someone who shares your defined as eating in response beliefs. to feelings rather than physical • Solitude: “I crave space.” hunger. Try sitting quietly alone, taking To dive into the differences a relaxing bath, or journaling. between physical and nonKarlee Golightly • Movement: “I crave physical hunger, it’s helpful to first activity.” Try dancing, playing discern what your unique hunger cues are. A few common signs of physical hunger may with children or pets, or engaging in your include a sound or “grumbling” sensation in favorite way to exercise. your abdomen, feeling lightheaded or weak, The activities listed above may be helpful difficulty concentrating, or even a headache. in brainstorming ideas for alternatives to These cues were designed as signals to eating, but everyone will have different your brain to take in more fuel, and are ways to satisfy each of the emotional important in regulating your daily energy hungers. Take a moment to go through needs. However, sometimes we may confuse each of the examples again and write down or ignore physical hunger cues and instead other actions you might include. If you eat in response to stress, hoping to ease our choose food in response to one of these nonphysical hunger cues, you will never be able discomfort with food, i.e. emotional eating. While emotional eating typically has to satisfy your emotional hunger. By instead negative connotations, eating to soothe recognizing your emotions and what you’re is an example of a self-care tool; it’s when really “hungry” for, you are able to better eating is your only coping mechanism that it regulate stress and feel more balanced! becomes problematic. To better understand Karlee Golightly is a Registered Dietiour emotions, we can start by examining the tian and Yoga Teacher at Feed Your Soul Fitness; contact her at info@feedyoursoulsix types of non-physical hungers: • Intellectual: “I crave mental fitness.com.

n By

Karlee Golightly, RD, RYT

Cooking and Eating Hacks To Curb Weight Gain n By

Kimberly Williams

for a the light option such as a vodka soda with lime.

e have all been there. You work your The “Party-Thrower” butt off during the summer months to A few tips and tricks to aid in the cooking feel and look your best, then WHAM! It’s the of the holiday meal. end of December and all of that hard work • Substitute applesauce on your health has disappeared for butter in baked goods. as extra weight appears. Come Replace the half of the butter in Jan. 1, you find yourself trying your recipe with applesauce. If all over again to re-establish the recipe calls for 1 cup butter, healthy habits. use a half cup of butter and half The struggle with the cup of applesauce. holidays is that there are a lot • Use oils that are high of foods high in saturated fat, in monounsaturated fatty acids sugar-filled drinks and less when cooking. Oils high in movement during these colder monounsaturated fat - olive oil, months. This combination avocado oil and sunflower oil results in a higher calorie intake and a lower energy expenditure, Kimberly Williams are best for heart health. • Replace desserts with which then leads to those pesky a fruit parfait or fruit salad. A fall-colored holiday pounds. fruit salad will satisfy everyone’s sweet How can you combat this? Here are a tooth, provide fiber and nutrients, and be a few tips and tricks to focus on throughout refreshing last course. the holidays as a “party-goer” and a “party These are just a few small ideas to focus thrower:” on this holiday season. Try them out, your body will thank you! The “Party-Goer” Kimberly Williams is a Registered Di If you have no control of the ingredients etician and Personal Trainer at Feed Your that are going into the food being served, Soul Fitness – FeedYourSoulFitness.com. this is the guide for you. • Focus on filling your plate half-way with fruits and vegetables. I’m not talking the heavy green-bean casserole that we all Kidney Centers of Colorado know and love. I am talking salad greens with light dressing and fresh fruit. The rest of your plate can be filled with whatever you like. Eat the fresh fruits and veggies first, and you will end up eating more fiber and fewer overall calories. • Avoid snacks and starters that are not Superior Quality - Advanced Amenities - Treatment Options found on the edges of the grocery store. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 4 Star Rated Facility foods on the perimeter of the grocery store Kidney Center of Wheat Ridge are less processed. This is where things like 6920 West 38th Avenue | Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 fruit, veggies, fresh meat and cheese exist. 303-463-3041 The less processed a food is, the better. aracolo.com • Focus on avoiding "liquid” calories. Additional clinics throughout Metro Denver and the Vail Valley. Focus on consuming zero-calorie liquids. If this is unavoidable (ahem, alcohol), shoot

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MOUNTAIN VIEWS

What’s Happening in the WRBA

This Winter Take It Slow to Make It Safe n By

“

What an amazing WRBA Annual Holiday Luncheon December 12!!! Thank you to everyone who attended and to our phenomenal Speaker, Mark Sanborn

JANUARY MEMBERSHIP BREAKFAST

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ne kind word can warm three winter months,” affirms a Japanese proverb. With the arrival of the December through February calendar, the season offers shorter days, colder temperatures and, owing to a myriad of holiday celebrations, the prospects for a distracting schedule. The Japanese proverb prompts the thought, “Several neighborly suggestions can assure safe passage through three winter months.” Therefore, always dress to keep warm, but accessorize to hear, see and to be visible to motorists. A knit hat, sunglasses, reflective or wool neck scarf, gloves or mittens are basic cold weather accessories. When walking on snow, ice or a wet pavement, heed a few practical measures to optimize balance. Footwear should have a flat bottom with heavy, gripping soles. Securely lace up shoes or boots to ensure good traction. If using a cane or crutches, attach ice prongs to better traverse icy or snowy conditions. Walk with toes curled under and step as flat-footed as possible. Reduce the risk of falling by keeping the knees bent slightly and moving slowly. To anticipate potential hazards, look ahead and plant your feet accordingly. Take your time when crossing ice. Slow your movement and use short, shuffling steps. Avoid climbing over snowbanks. Whether walking on the sidewalk, parking lot, uneven terrain or stepping from a curb, keep your full attention on the road surface and approaching vehicles. Wait until the approaching motorist comes to a complete stop before walking forward. If personal health or stamina is in question, consider walking with a friend. When exiting a vehicle, remember to survey the surrounding surface area. For stability, use the car door or seat back before stepping out onto the pavement. Carrying packages, grocery bags, a backpack or handbag may prove to be a challenge during inclement weather. To lessen the possibility of slipping, arms should remain unencumbered, even keeping hands out of coat pockets to ensure steady footing. Since, good balance requires the use of all the human senses, avoid listening to music, texting or engaging in cellphone conversation when maneuvering the potentially hazardous winter environment. In Colorado, the winter holds great

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promise for fun, festive outdoor experiences. This season, take it slow and make it safe.

Community Events

Column correction: The November column should have read, “With the planning proposal for the Wastewater and Stormwater Improvement Project costing $95,285.00, the town had the foresight to apply for a grant.” All details and estimated costs for the Mountain View Wastewater and Stormwater Improvement Project will be addressed at the public meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 18, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Town Hall and Police Department, 4176 Benton St. Beginning in January 2019, Alpine Waste and Recycling will begin serving as the town’s trash and recycling provider. Fee and collection information for 2019 has been mailed to community members. Information can be accessed at www. townofmountainviewcolorado.org or by calling the Town Hall and Police Department, 303-421-7282. 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

With the month of December providing bountiful opportunity for gift exchange, the occasion for re-gifting may also prevail. Since re-gifting suggests that a received gift was unwanted and may likewise be unwanted by the next recipient, one should consider re-gifting etiquette. The re-gift item should be new, in the original packaging and rewrapped. Handmade, or items with special meaning to the original giver should not be re-gifted. Give caution that the new recipient is not the original giver and also not likely to reveal the re-gift content to the original giver. If the regift is well received, anticipate answering, “How did you know this is what I wanted? Where did you find it?” If re-gifting is a favorable option, note that the observance was made official in Colorado by Governor Bill Ritter in 2008. Be mindful, too, that Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, commemorates National Re-Gifting Day. So this year, at the annual office holiday party or family gathering gift exchange, give and receive thoughtfully.

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ngazette.com – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

It’s The Time Of The Year For More And More Deer n By

Sally Griﬃn

t is that time of the year and we are seeing more deer. And I don’t mean reindeer. This is that time of year when deer have moved from higher ground toward our area, seeking more accessible food and shelter. Deer are the largest wild animals that most people will encounter. Colorado is known for their mule deer population. Mule deer are slightly larger and more robust than white-tailed deer. They are named for their larger ears which are said to resemble the ears of the mules used by the early miners. Deer are regarded as forest creatures, but in fact they prefer the areas where open space and forests meet. The same places preferred by many humans. But they don’t come for the view or the environment, they like to shelter in the forest and find food in the open areas. However, like Canada geese, they can thrive even in heavily populated areas. Bike trails, railways, open space and utility rights-of-way serve as deer highways. Our ornamental shrubs and plants serve as deer dining rooms. If salt is used on highways after snowstorms, it serves as deer seasoning. In other words, deer can thrive in any suburban habitat that we have created. As an example, we lived for short period of time in large apartment complex in Colorado Springs. It was relatively close to the mountains in an area that was known for its wildlife. But to show how close that wildlife could come, we experienced both a midnight coyote party in the lower parking lot and the birth of a fawn almost on our front doorstep. Luckily, not at the same time. When asked about the doe and her new fawn, the management assured us that this was what she did every year. She had found this was the best way to protect her fawn from partying coyotes and other predators. She clearly did not regard humans as being in the predator category. Deer, while beautiful, are also voracious. They can destroy plants and trees in our landscapes with overbrowsing. They can cause other problems when they share the same space with humans. They can cause serious safety issues on our roadways. A collision between a deer and a car can have serious repercussions for both the deer and the car’s occupants. Lastly, white-tailed deer, in particular, are often the host of ticks that spread Lyme disease. Deer in

Colorado and Wyoming have been found to have chronic wasting disease, which can be transmitted to other animals. While, nation-wide, the population of white-tailed deer has grown from 500,000 in 1900 to over 2 million today, Colorado’s population of mule deer has diminished. Mule deer range through the mountains and Front Range, while white-tail deer are found mostly in river bottom areas of our state. In a 2016 study for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, by Sarah Reed, a conservation scientist, she found that increasing residential development was the most important factor associated with declining mule deer populations. In 2017, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) reported that 7,706 deer where hit by vehicles throughout the state. However, CDOT officials also noted that, usually, only half of deer-related crashes are reported. Many on the Front Range like to see deer in their area. Also, deer hunting has a major impact on Colorado tourism. Consequently, deer in our areas are seen as both negative and positive. Wildlife biologists point out the enormous challenge of managing deer populations in humandominated environments because of the very wide range of expectations people have concerning deer. Some people feed deer while others want to bring in bow hunters to limit the population. If you are one of those that want to feed deer in your area, you are on your own. However, you need to know that suburban deer herds can double in size every two years. This means that problems with suburban deer are likely to increase over time. Communities often debate the merits of hunting versus non-lethal means for managing deer. One method for managing deer in your area is to grow the kind of plants that deer regard as yucky. Common broad-leaved plants in our lawns, flowers and shrubs are treats for deer. However, some plants can serve as repellents. You can also try spraying things like hot sauce on plants in your garden. However, each time it snows, you will need to re-hot sauce your yard. These work by reducing the attractiveness of your yard and making deer look elsewhere. Probably, less appealing is to use odorbased repellents. This means products that smell like rotten eggs, soap, predator urine,

blood meal or other animal parts. These repellents are poured into absorbent cloth bag that is suspended from a tree or pole. However, you may need over 500 of these bags per half-acre of ground. Research shows that odor-based repellents work better than taste-based ones, but that also means humans have to endure the awful smell and need to reapply it on a regular basis, e.g. every time it snows or rains or every five to six weeks. Another method is fencing. The right kind of fencing can keep deer away from gardens and off dangerous sections of roads. Several fence designs can be used, including both barrier and electric fences. However, low fences seldom work. A high-tensile, woven-wire fence that is eight to 10 feet tall is the most effective. A 90 percent reduction

of deer-vehicle accidents was achieved along an 8-mile stretch of I-70 with the installation of an eight-foot deer fence. Strobes, sirens, water sprays and other devices have been used to frighten deer. These, however, have limited effectiveness and may complicate your relationship with your neighbors. Dogs and invisible fences can be more effective. But this, of course, depends on the type of dog. A German shepherd works better than a toy poodle, for instance. The invisible fence keeps the dog in, not the deer out. Most experts recommend a combination of several techniques to manage deer numbers. This may mean that our communities, not individuals, may need to decide how many deer they want in their area and how to manage that number.

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nterest rates have improved from earlier highs this year, so there is still time to improve your long-term loan situation if you act quickly!

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The Federal Housing Finance Agency announced the maximum loan limits for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac conventional loans is once again Just Closed On New Conincreasing effective Jan. 1, 2019. struction? The new conforming base loan Refinance to secure a limit in Colorado counties will lower interest rate than what the be increasing to $484,350 for Wanda Norge builder offered when you closed! a one-unit property. However, most all Denver metro counties have Adjustable Rate Loan Coming Due? increased limits to $561,200. This includes ARM loans started between 2008Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Clear Creek, 2011 are coming due! Let’s see if the next Denver, Douglas, Elbert, Gilpin, Jefferson adjustment makes sense to keep or if and Park. Boulder is $626,750. Mountain refinancing is more beneficial. resort counties have even higher limits. This could be a great time to switch into Refinance Jumbos Or 1st/2nd Combos the All-In-One Loan Interest Savings Loan With Conventional Rates! that combines the mortgage and checking Use our specialty loan that allows up to account into one. It reduces principal first, $726,525 (higher than the limits above!) to by “sweeping” regular deposits against the refinance your jumbo loan or first / second balance, paying off the mortgage in half the combined loan amounts that now fit into time compared to traditional mortgages, this conventional loan category. It could and saving interest over the life of the loan. be beneficial to combine into one loan Money normally sent to a third party to pay – potentially saving you interest on the the mortgage stays in the account! A line of higher-rate second loan or switching into a credit is then available for 30 years without 30-year loan now instead of that adjustable requiring a refinance. Can now be used for jumbo. investment properties!

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Some of our new loans options include: Continued on page 12

n By

Guy Nahmiach

or the last year many Wheat Ridge citizens have been dropping off their glass waste at the recycling center by Anderson Park. It was a pilot project sponsored by a local company. This was a free service where you could drop off bottles, jars and general glassware. With those families that have made recycling a part of their regular daily routine - where plastics/glass and paper go into one bin and fruit and vegetable scraps go into a compost bin - we have found a huge drop in the amount of waste that actually goes in the regular garbage. A year later, the pilot program has come to a close. Interesting, as participation at the large cardboard and paper drop-off center at 38th and Ward has also dropped off. In fact, my neighbor that used to collect and resell junk metal no longer is accepting “donations.” Recycling centers are simply not paying much if anything for recycling waste. In speaking with City Manager Patrick Goff, I learned that Wheat Ridge is looking into another solution. The city knows of the need and responsibility we as a community have to our households and environment to recycle and develop a sustainability program that not only helps our environment but is also affordable for our families with limited incomes who have a desire to recycle. The program the city has in mind would have three glass drop-off centers across the city, but potentially could be for paper and plastic as well. The cost would be $4,500 per year for the entire program. That’s about 12-cents per citizen per year – not even

air is that cheap - and, certainly, that’s not more than we pay for our recycling service at home. This, of course, will be brought up at a city council study session tentatively set for Dec. 17. If this is something you’d like to support or find out more about, I would urge you to attend. I am very thankful for our city’s investigating a solution for us. Hopefully there will be many of us on the 17th to show city council our support for this program. Contact Guy Nahmiach at guy@NostalgicHomes.com or 303-999-5789.

Expert Continued from page 12

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ngazette.com – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS Residents Have Their Say In Revitalizing Wheat Ridge’s Neighborhoods n By

Nancy Hahn

esidents got a chance to provide their input on the effectiveness and direction of the city’s neighborhood revitalization plan this month. The process to revitalize Wheat Ridge began in 2005, with goals of building strong households, strengthening the housing market, increasing home ownership, growing businesses, and attracting shoppers. City council adopted a Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy, NRS, an improvement plan for becoming more competitive in the region for businesses and new households. This past July, council hired czb LLC, an urban planning and community development firm, to assess the successes of NRS and identify ways to add it. A Steering Committee of 27 Wheat Ridge residents also shared their thoughts about the community. In November, czb LLC presented their findings about the effects of the NRS to the council. The first open house about this process was held Dec. 12 at the Wheat Ridge

Recreation Center to share findings and ask for ideas from the community. Presenters shared which strategies have already been implemented. For example, new housing in Wheat Ridge has been constructed and housing is also being renovated. The Corners at 38th Avenue and Wadsworth is up and running. Steps have begun to develop 38th Avenue as a main street area. A critical question throughout planning and implementation is whether Wheat Ridge can keep its values and character as it moves forward. Input from the community is a way to raise the chances of a very positive answer to that question. This was an active, talkative, ideafilled open house. Each presentation was given by one of the Steering Committee members. One presentation shared “What are the Big Things Wheat Ridge Must Get Right?” There were five. Improving the condition of commercial corridors, like, 38th Avenue, Kipling Street, and Wadsworth Avenue was one. Creating neighborhood identities, offering different types of housing for various income levels,

AN INTERESTED AND TALKATIVE CROWD AT REVITALIZE WHEAT RIDGE OPEN HOUSE shared ideas about creating a growing, vibrant, successful Wheat Ridge. PHOTO BY NANCY HAHN

Anderson Park Facelift Is Well Underway n By

Meghan Godby

nderson Park is a cornerstone of the Wheat Ridge community. It’s where children go to splash in the outdoor pool, and where you’ll find the beloved Carnation Festival every summer. The 28-acre park has been a city staple for close to 50 years, drawing in not only local residents, but also members of nearby communities. Because of its popularity and heavy use, the park has seen better days. Thanks to 2E, the half-cent sales tax increase approved by voters back in 2016, the city has plans to

revamp the park over the next year or so. The contract was awarded in late August and after a Demo Day Celebration on Sep. 19, crews went straight to work. The interior of the Anderson Building and the pool bathhouse has already been demolished and asbestos abatement has been completed. All of the work should be wrapped up by July 2019. Other than interior renovations and building upgrades, the city has many festivalfriendly enhancements in mind, including a larger pavilion, improved performance stage and even a new sidewalk for better

FOLLOWING THE SEPT. 19 DEMO DAY CELEBRATION, the interior of the Anderson Building and the pool bathhouse was demolished and asbestos abatement completed; renovation will ﬁnish in July. PHOTO BY KARA MARTIN

pedestrian mobility and safety. Changes like new lighting, roof replacements and portable fencing are also in the works. So, who is working on the project? It’s certainly a team effort. The city has partnered with several organizations to make their renovation goals a reality. Moore, Iacofano, Goltsman, Inc. helped complete the park master plan, while Barker, Rinker, Seacat Architecture worked on design, development and construction. The construction contractor, GH Phipps, has nearly 40 workers and sub-contractors on site working tirelessly to meet deadlines. Large-scale projects often run into hang-ups, but Matt Anderson, Analyst for the city’s Parks and Recreation department, says everything is going according to plan. “A contingency fund was created to account for unanticipated construction expenses,” he explains. “Construction workers have not run into any obstacles and the project remains on schedule.” The 2E tax increase added $6.5 million dollars to the city budget and Anderson Park is just one of the four projects that will receive funding. Other projects include a partial widening of Wadsworth Boulevard, construction to facilitate growth around the G Line rail station and I-70 on/off ramps as part of the new Clear Creek Crossing development. To learn more about the Anderson Park renovation, contact Matt Anderson at 303231-1307 or manderson@ci.wheatridge. co.us. Information on the other three projects can be found on the city’s website at ci.wheatridge.co.us.

creating neighborhood gathering places, and improving infrastructure (stormwater management and a transportation network, for example) were the big things. After ideas were presented, visitors to the open house viewed more specific details about each idea. Then, they were asked to use stickers to choose whether they felt the idea was important to them or not. Sometimes they marked maps or answered questions about their neighborhood. Every presentation asked visitors to share their ideas and opinions. The consulting team will now begin drafting a strategy document about the best ways for our Wheat Ridge community to move forward. In early 2019, additional engagement opportunities will be available. Both small and targeted, as well as large and open to the public, will take place. The consulting team will also continue its analysis of Wheat Ridge data and policy issues. Strategies to further the revitalization will begin to take shape over the winter and a draft strategy document is expected in the spring.

To check for updates, visit www. ci.wheatridge.co.us and search for “NRS update”.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING Wheat Ridge Reads Plants ‘The Past Is Never’ In Local Little Free Libraries Copies of The Past Is Never, the latest selection for Wheat Ridge Reads, are being left in various little free libraries throughout Wheat Ridge. Readers are encouraged to find a copy at one of these venues or check one out from Jefferson County Public Library, read it and return it, then join the conversation with the author at a public event in January. Author Tiffany Quay Tyson will be at Swiss Flowers and Gift Cottage on Wednesday evening, Jan. 16, and Ye Olde Firehouse on Thursday, Jan. 17, to read a selection from the novel and discuss it with readers. She will also sign personal copies of the book. An author event will also be held at Wheat Ridge High School for students and faculty the afternoon of Jan. 17. Suitable for adult and teens, the novel addresses the issues of loss and abandonment and family secrets. Told primarily through the eyes of teenaged Bert, who leaves Mississippi with her older brother Willet to search Florida Everglades for their missing baby sister Pansy, the book is a tale of family secrets and self-discovery. A Denver resident, Tyson is a faculty member at Lighthouse Writers Workshop and the Lighthouse Young Writers Program. Wheat Ridge Reads is sponsored by the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission, Jefferson County Public Library and the Wheat Ridge Library. The citywide book club is designed to promote literacy and a shared reading experience throughout the

city. For more information contact Wheat Ridge Cultural Commissioner At Large Gay Porter DeNileon at gpdenileon@ gmail.com, your local library, or visit jeffcolibrary.org.

Cookie Workshop & Exchange, Knitting Classes At Four Seasons Market Four Seasons Market, 7043 W. 38th Ave., will host a variety of special events and classes in the coming weekends. Allie Alarcon, owner of Trendy Treatz and Craftz, will teach a workshop of holiday cookie decorating called “Cookie Day,” Saturday, Dec. 22, from 10 a.m. till noon. The workshop fee is $25 and includes the supplies you need to create your own works of art. Registration required. That same day, bring in a dozen of your favorite holiday cookie creations to share and take home a dozen cookies created by your neighbors as part of the Community Holiday Cookie Exchange. Sign up now for a Knitting Building Blocks class presented by Calypso In Color’s Robbie Sattes, starting Jan. 6. The Building Blocks series is designed to help knitters navigate through major knitting skills, techniques, and principles, while creating 12 individual squares. The class meetings Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Four Seasons Farmers and Artisans Market through March 31. Four Seasons Farmers and Artisans Market is open year round, Market Days

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WHEAT RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL’S CAREER EXPLORE CLASS visited Shaw Construction’s field office for a safety meeting, toured the West End 38th project job site, and then returned to the field office for pizza on Dec. 13. Fourteen WRHS students interested in construction careers are learning outside of the box, and gaining hands-on knowledge that will help them pursue high-paying construction jobs. PHOTO COURTESY JOHN CLARK

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Wheat Ridge Selects Sharon Heinlen As FirstEver Poet In Residence Sharon Heinlen has been named the first Wheat Ridge Poet in Residence as part of the celebrations planned for the city’s 50th Anniversary in 2019, according to a release from the City of Wheat Ridge. Heinlen will create original works of poetry to read at several Wheat Ridge events in 2019. She will also conduct poetry education programs at Wheat Ridge schools in 2020. Heinlen was selected by the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission for her poem “Neighborly Inspiration” as well as several other original poems and for her commitment to the community. An 18-year resident of Wheat Ridge, Heinlen is a retired Regis University music professor, and has written and performed poetry and music at multiple venues throughout her life. Her work as Poet in Residence will also be shared on Facebook @ MeettheArtistWheatRIdge and in the Wheat Ridge Connections Newsletter as well as Mayor’s Matters. Plans for readings by Heinlen in 2019 include the grand reopening of Anderson Park in May or June, one of the Performances in the Park in July, Localworks’ Ridgefest in September, and the Holiday Lighting in December. Additional information about the Poet in Residence and other Cultural Commission projects can be found at ci.wheatridge.co.us

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WR CF

Wheat Ridge Community Foundation

Get Ready For The New Year At The Wheat Ridge Library Community gardening events, book clubs, storytimes and tech help are being offered at the Wheat Ridge Library, 5475 W. 32nd Ave., as the new year begins. Get information and sign up to participate in Denver Urban Gardens’ Grow a Garden program, all Wednesday, Jan. 2. Wheat Ridge Library is a DUG distribution site for the 2019 Grow a Garden program, which ensures that in-need individuals, families, seniors and groups have access to the necessary seeds, seedlings and education to grow a successful, productive vegetable garden and improve local food security for program participants. Eligible participants can select up to 10 seed packets and five two-packs of seedlings and attend gardening workshops. Ask a librarian for assistance; sign-up continues through Jan. 31. Practice your Spanish with other friendly language learners during Intercambio Spanish Conversation Table, held Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. It is not an instructional course, but a great opportunity to chat and improve your skills through facilitated conversation. All ability levels are welcome. 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, Wednesdays, from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. Free. Get personalized technology assistance and instruction from experts on your own device or a library computer during Drop In Tech Help, Monday, Jan. 7, from 10 a.m. till noon. Suitable for adults. Continued on page 15

The Wheat Ridge Community Foundation encourages giving, fiscally supports organizations that serve civic, educational and community needs and sponsors and supports educational programs. For more info, or to donate to community programs visit:

wheatridgefoundation.org

ngazette.com – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Stop In For Memory Café, Jan. 16 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, Jan. 16, 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+. For more information, contact the Wheat Ridge Library at 303-235-5275.

Wheat Ridge Police Department Crime Analyst Recognized For Excellence

to review/revise/renew the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS) was initiated to gather citizen input, ideas and vision for our future as we plan to celebrate our 50th anniversary as a home rule city in 2019. I can’t tell you how humbled and honored I am to be mayor of this amazing city. I give thanks for the hard work of our city staff, the thoughtful deliberations of our elected officials, and the countless hours of dedicated service provided by volunteers throughout our community who strive to make this such a wonderful place to live, work and play. May this holiday season and the new year bring you and your family peace, love and joy. Contact Wheat Ridge Mayor Bud Starker at bstarker@ci.wheatridge.co.us or 303-235-2800.

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Changes to the Regional Transportation District’s fares and pass programs will begin on Jan. 2, including the implementation of a youth fare that increases the discount offered to riders between 6 and 19 years old to 70 percent. The new, age-based youth discount – no longer requiring enrollment in elementary, middle or high school – is one of several key changes that will take effect in the new year, according to a release from RTD. Another new product is the three-hour pass, enabling riders to travel for up to three hours in any direction within the fare category for which they have paid (e.g., Local, Regional), replacing the current one-way transfer or ticket. New RTD fares take effect at 3 a.m. on Jan. 2, at the start of the service day. Over the New Year’s holiday, RTD

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TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

New RTD Fares, Discounts To Take Effect Jan. 2

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Wheat Ridge Police Department Crime Analyst Beth Daniel received the prestigious Crucial Support in Law Enforcement Award from the Colorado Attorney General at the Ralph L. Carr Justice Center in early December, in recognition of her skills in furthering major investigations, according to a release from the City of Wheat Ridge. The Colorado Attorney General gives out four Excellence in Law Enforcement awards, one of which is for Crucial Support in Law Enforcement, given to a non-sworn agency member who exhibits excellence in supporting the law enforcement mission. Daniel gathers and analyzes the needed data for WRPD to make resource deployment decisions as well track pattern crimes. Her additional functions are to supply analyst support to detectives investigating major crimes. Her work in the past year have resulted in identifying potential suspects in cases involving carwash burglaries, parental kidnapping and aggravated robberies. Daniel also takes a leadership role in the crime analyst community as an expert on leveraging databases available to law enforcement and in training WRPD personnel as well as those from other agencies. According to the city, she took the lead among the six agencies comprising the Records Management System Consortium and was instrumental in the creation of a custom search tool used for the records

More information is available by calling RTD Customer Care at 303-299-6000 or visiting rtd-denver.com/fares-2019.shtml.

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For more information, visit WheatRidgeHistoricalSociety.org or e-mail WRHistorical@gmail.com.

The City of Wheat Ridge recently appointed Marianne Schilling as the Assistant to the City Manager, according to a release from the city. Schilling will work on special projects including the research and development of new programs as well as the monitoring of existing programs. She will also coordinate the annual Civic Education and Governance Academy for residents, and support special resident committees organized by the mayor and city council. Schilling will also serve as a liaison with employees, public and private organizations, community groups and others, and will provide information and assistance regarding legislative programs. Her responsibilities will also include serving as Assistant Budget Manager and coordinating the Outside Agency Contribution program. “We are very excited to have Marianne join the team at the City of Wheat Ridge, as we believe her background in project management and her experience in local government make her a great fit for this role,” stated Patrick Goff, Wheat Ridge city manager. “With new developments and 2E projects underway in Wheat Ridge as well as the much anticipated opening of the G Line commuter rail, this is a very busy time for the City, and we look forward to Marianne’s contribution in her new role. ” For the past four and a half years, Schilling worked with the City of Centennial on the Budget Team and most recently served as a Senior Management Analyst. She also held positions for the City of Raleigh and North Carolina State University. She holds a master’s degree in Public Administration and a master’s degree in International Studies from North Carolina State University. She received her undergraduate degree from Butler University in Indianapolis, Ind.

remaining an option for those who are interested. All of the changes being made reflect feedback RTD received from thousands of people during the most recent fare review process, scheduled to take place every three years. Also taken into consideration was a consensus recommendation resulting from a yearlong pass program study that concluded in February. RTD’s 15-member board authorized a comprehensive review of the transit agency’s fares and passes in 2015, in response to public requests during the prior fare review.

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Wheat Ridge Historical Society will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the City of Wheat Ridge with history talks, cake and tours, on Saturday, Jan. 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the historic Baugh House at 44th and Robb Street. “We will be collecting stories for an upcoming book on Wheat Ridge history,” said the Society’s Janet Bradford. “Stop by and share some history with your neighbors.”

Wheat Ridge Appoints Schilling As New Assistant To The City Manager

Wish Wheat Ridge A Happy 50th At Baugh House, Jan. 12

will offer its riders 32 hours of free service starting at 7 p.m. on Dec. 31, through 2:59 a.m. Jan. 2. RTD’s new full-price fares are: $3 for Local, $5.25 for Regional and $10.50 for a trip to or from Denver International Airport (which also can be used as a Regional day pass). Riders who qualify for half-price discount fares include seniors (65 and older), individuals with disabilities and Medicare recipients. Proof of eligibility is required. Those fares are: $1.50 for Local, $2.60 for Regional and $5.25 for a trip to or from Denver International Airport (which also can be used as a Regional day pass). Discounted fares for youth – those between 6 and 19 years old – will increase to 70 percent, from the current 50 percent. Proof of eligibility is required. The new youth fares are: 90 cents for Local, $1.60 for Regional and $3.20 for a trip to or from Denver International Airport (which also can be used as a Regional day pass). A new low-income program to begin in summer 2019 will provide a 40 percent discount to qualifying riders whose household incomes are at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level. Interested customers will have to qualify and enroll in the program to receive the lowincome fare. RTD will communicate details about how to apply as soon as they have been determined. EcoPass, Neighborhood EcoPass and CollegePass will continue to be offered and will be priced based upon trips taken. 10Ride ticket books and MyRide smart cards have been retained with discounts. Day and monthly passes and FlexPass have been retained. ValuPass has been discontinued, with the purchase of 12 monthly passes

For more information, call 303-2355275 or visit jeffcolibrary.org.

management system provider, Niche, to make their system more usable to analysts. Using the Lumen facial recognition tool, Daniel was one of the first trained on how to use it and developed several leads for WRPD as well as surrounding agencies.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – DECEMBER 17, 2018 – JANUARY 14, 2019 – ngazette.com

Who Is Providing Shelter And Help To Our Homeless? n By

Nancy Hahn

hile the number of homeless people continues to grow, understanding and the support of so many excellent people and organizations grows, also. The following local organizations provide shelter and assistance.

Family Promise

Denver’s Family Promise, one of the earliest organizations to recognize the growing homelessness crisis, was presented with one of 21 Points of Light awarded by President and Barbara Bush in 1992. It is open all day, seven days a week. At night, families are sheltered in area churches. “Homeless families have lost more than their homes…,” according to a National Center on Family Homelessness Report. “The homeless children are young: they have witnessed violence … they are anxious, depressed, and withdrawn. Today they need a shelter. To build a life, they need support.” The motto of Family Promise is “Ending homelessness one family at a time.” Helping families, together, helps rebuild faith and confidence. Family Promise provides case management and support. Their goal is to get families back into a home. Computers are provided for job searches and learning. There is help to use them, if needed. Children can be children without worries. They have fun play spaces, a backyard to enjoy, and a quiet room for naps. There is time to rebuild confidence in life, without the fear of where you we be or what you will eat tomorrow. Family Promise can be contacted at 303-657-0713.

Severe Weather Shelter Network

The Severe Weather Shelter Network supports the area’s homeless adults in our Colorado winter. Daily by 10:30 a.m., the Shelter Network website posts whether it is a shelter day or not. Shelters will be open if

that night’s weather is predicted to be below 30 degrees and wet, or below 20 degrees and dry. The Applewood Community Church, Westwoods Community Church, and Sloan’s Lake Church rotate serving as the shelters in the Lakewood and Wheat Ridge area. The Elks Lodge in Lakewood serves as a warm gathering place to wait for transportation to the shelters. The Wheat Ridge Police Department is part of the Severe Weather Shelter Network, also. The shelters are used by adults, who must register before they can use them. Lakewood Action Center, Wheat Ridge Family Tree, Denver City Square, and Jeffco Human Services in Golden are the registration sites. These sites are also where registered adults will be picked up and transported to the church on the severe weather nights. Once there, guests are served a homecooked meal together. After their meal the men and the women go to separate sleeping spaces.

The Rising Church

The Rising Church in Olde Town Arvada at 7500 W. 57th Avenue calls itself “the hub of homelessness in Arvada.” It is a fitting name. Rev. Steve Byers said the homeless population in Olde Town Arvada literally showed up on their doorstep. Next to the library, also considered a safe place to spend time by the homeless, The Rising Church has become a great resource. Homeless guests from Arvada, Wheat Ridge, Golden, Lakewood, and Denver have benefitted from the church’s programs. It serves as a day shelter on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., serving breakfast and lunch. A clothing bank, showers, and a sleeping bag and blanket closet are provided, also. Like homeless everywhere, the church’s clients are a varied group: infants to the

elderly, veterans, people with mental health issues, some with disabilities, while others just had a run of bad luck. Rebel Rodriguez, named Arvada’s Woman of the year for her work with the homeless, is one of the shelter volunteers in the food bank, which serves about 110 people a week. In addition to canned and boxed food, twice a week a box of fresh produce is available. A number of the homeless, also, work in the food bank. Karen S. Cowling, homeless advocate and mentor, manages the shelter and helps clients find the help they need. They receive help signing up for Medicare and food stamps, applying for free phone services, registering for the Severe Weather Shelter Network, and are transported to appointments. Dental At Your Door works with Arvada Rising to provide regular dental care. The impact of Arvada Rising’s wide-ranging assistance is, clearly, life-changing.

The Action Center and Mean Streets Ministry

The Action Center and Mean Streets Ministry provide support to those who are homeless or in need, particularly, in the Lakewood and Colfax corridor areas. Both had shelters that closed down last year, but they hope to reopen them in the future. “We will be open next season,” said Chaplain James Fry. Mean Streets Ministry is now a mobile ministry that reaches out to people in shelters, in motels, and in the projects. Fry and his volunteers go out on Colfax Avenue to provide counseling and prayer, as well as meals, diapers, bus passes and other needed items. The Action Center, also, continues programs to support individuals and families that need a hand. Those in need can call 720-215-4850 and make an appointment to access their free services

THE APPLEWOOD COMMUNITY CHURCH AT 12930 W. 32ND AVE. is one of the churches participating in the Severe Weather Shelter Network. It also has a pantry box outside with donated food available to anyone who needs it. PHOTO BY NANCY HAHN. at 8745 W. 14th Ave. Services include the clothing bank, free personal care items and household needs. Five days of groceries can be chosen up to six times a year. Help is available with health care, landlord and tenant issues, and other immediate needs. The Action Center programs help participants build a life of self-sufficiency. Case managers and participants work together to set and reach positive goals in Pathways, a six-month program. To learn more about the Action Center’s programs or other services call 303-2377704 or make an appointment call 720-2154850.