Neighborhood Gazette – September 2017 by Neighborhood Gazette

WHEAT RIDGE MAYOR Election 2017 Shines the Spotlight on You

LOCALWORKS UPDATE Community Building with Five Fridges Farm

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NEIGHBORHOOD

WHEAT RIDGE | APPLEWOOD | MOUNTAIN VIEW | LAKESIDE September 19 – October 16, 2017 • ngazette.com • FREE

Elections Shape Up for November Races n By

Gwen Clayton

andidates running on the November 2017 ballot were required to file paperwork with their respective city clerks or school board offices by close of business Aug. 28. The following week, the Neighborhood Gazette emailed questionnaires to the hopefuls, along with a request for a highresolution headshot photo, to be published with their responses to the questions below: 1. What is your name, position running for, occupation, previous occupations, how long you've lived in the city or district, and any personal details you want readers to know about you. 2. Have you served in public office before? If so, what position, where and when? 3. Have you volunteered in your community? If so, what position, where and when? 4. What are the three most important issues facing your city/district, and how will you address them if elected? 5. Please provide basic contact information: Website, phone number, email, social media, as well as name of candidate committee and chairperson. Continued on page 2

A CLASSIC CAR SHOW was just one of many fun, family attractions at this year’s RidgeFest, held Sept. 9 in the heart of the Ridge at 38 district, highlighting the community’s agricultural heritage and handmade/homemade offerings. PHOTO: BECKY OLSTAD

All Along the G Line: Someday My Train Will Come... n By

Jennifer LeDuc

t isn’t hard to imagine the Arvada stop of RTD’s G Line buzzing with riders returning home from work and filtering off the train into any number of eateries and shops dotting the Olde Town neighborhood, or hopping on to to catch an easy ride to a game downtown. The G Line, formally know as the Gold Line, was slated to open in October of 2016. The line is 11 miles long, with 8 stops between Union Station and Ward Road in Wheat Ridge. The project is not stalled, as much as delayed, pending successful testing and approval by the Federal Railroad Administration of the commuter rail’s Positive Train Control safety system. That anticipated surge in foot traffic meant rents were raised for many tenants in Olde Town. Some businesses have hung on, some have not, and some prime store-front real estate is unoccupied. Informally polling shopkeepers and customers opposite the G Line stop on Grandview Avenue in Olde Town recently revealed mixed understanding of the delays, and optimism divided. “No, I don’t understand why it’s not running. I keep hearing the same thing everyone else does,” said Charlie Craven, proprietor of Charlie’s FlyBox. “There a lot of new businesses here that are optimistic. It certainly won’t hurt us, but people have been sold that this train is coming, and 13 years later it’s still not here.” Consequently, said Craven, the shop has seen a 30 percent decrease in sales over last year. “There’s no parking,” he laments. When the Olde Town stop was redeveloped in anticipation of the commuter line, the city removed the parking lot on

Grandview Avenue and built a parking garage beneath the station. Craven feels the city has poorly promoted the new garage and sees only those who work in Olde Town park there. “It’s less than abandoned,” he said. “All the time.” RTD is indeed not utilizing the parking garage, said Nate Currey, RTD’s senior manager of public relations. Logistically, he said, until the trains run it isn’t efficient

to pull the bus riders into the lot from the current Park-n-Ride lot across the street. At Silver Vines Winery, a few doors down from the FlyBox, the mood is more optimistic and some customers seem well-informed. Diane Chayer, whose two sons own the winery, said initially she didn’t realize the commuter line and the light rail were any different. “I kept calling it a light rail,” and some

customers corrected her, she said. “So that being said,” Chayer continued, “because we were all thinking it was going to open, rent has gone up tremendously, and everyone thought it would be bring people to Olde Town supporting our businesses – but it’s kinda hard to go on hearsay.” At the end of the line, at 52nd and Ward Continued on page 2

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

Filling The Fall With Community Music n By

Sally Griffin

e helped raise enough money for almost a month of staff salaries at the Lomagundi Medical Clinic in Chinoi, Zimbabwe. All we had to do, along with about 60 other people, was to attend a concert at the small outdoor amphitheater at Wheat Ridge Presbyterian Church. The concert featured the Afro-Pop band, Nokuthula. In talking to the co-founder of Nokuthula, Andre Mallinger, she told us that she loves performing music made for communities by community members – what she calls “community music.” It occurred to me, in a community like ours, there must be more opportunities to participate in community music, if only as audience members. The first place I found was with the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra (JSO). The JSO is a 75-member community orchestra that began in 1953 among a small group of faculty and students at Colorado School of Mines. This group quickly grew until, in 1957, it was recognized as the largest ensemble, based on community size, in the United States. CELLISTS FROM THE JEFFERSON SYMPHONY OR- Today, the JSO is one of the oldest and largest community orchestras in the state of Colorado. Wow! Talk about community music. CHESTRA rehearse for an upcoming performance. The The JSO has gone beyond community music to become a community

JSO will perform five concerts for the 2017-18 season. PHOTO: KEITH BOBO/JSO

Continued on page 2

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Jeﬀerson Symphony Continued from page 1

treasure. Its innovative programs include five classical concerts each season; the Jefferson Symphony Showcase, in which solo and chamber musicians perform in small, intimate settings; the Jefferson Symphony International Young Artists Competition, in which top young talent compete for cash and the opportunity to perform the winning concerto with the JSO; and the Free Pops Concert in the Park, performed every August in Parfet Park in Golden. The all-volunteer orchestra strives to keep its concerts affordable and accessible for all community members. It also provides free tickets to community members who might not, otherwise, be able to afford even the low ticket prices. The free concerts in August seek to provide music for community members of all ages to enjoy. In the best tradition of community music, this artistic resource adds awareness and pleasure to individuals and enhanced quality of life to Jefferson County. There are five concerts that the JSO will perform this year. The first two are at their normal venue, the Colorado School of Mines’ Green Center. While that is being renovated, the final three concerts will be performed at Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church. They take place Sundays and include music of: • Brahms, Elgar and Beethoven, Oct. 22, 3 p.m.; • Stravinski and the holidays, Dec. 3, 3 p.m.; • Tchaikovsky, Mozetich, Debussy and Ravel, Feb. 25, 4 p.m.; • Prokofiev and and a to-be-announced piano concerto, March 2, 4 p.m.; and • Piazzolla, de Falla, Copeland, Bernstein and Hovhaness, May 6, 4 p.m. Visit www.jeffsymphony.org/concerts for ticket information and prices. Steve Mallison, the Director of Music at Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church, is justifiably proud of his church’s excellent acoustics and contribution to community music. In addition to hosting the Jefferson Symphony, the church will be hosting the following community music events: • The Golden Community Chorus, Dec. 2, at 3 and 7 p.m. • The Alpine Chorale, around Easter and Christmas. • Ralston Valley High School Choirs, at various times during the year. Mallison can be reached at 303-4206346. The Arvada United Methodist Church hosts the Jeffco Adult Community Band, which performs four times a year. This is a true example of community music made by community members and the band encourages all adult players of any band instrument to participate, without audition. They play to enjoy music and share their talents. Contact gorgeouspan@msn.com for more information. For a change of musical endeavors, the Arvada Center welcomes the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra, which features everything from big band to exciting modern jazz compositions on select Saturdays: • “West Coast Jazz,” Oct. 7; • “New York Jazz,” Jan. 20; and • “Tribute to Buddy Rich,” March 24. The Arvada Center Box Office, at 720898-7200, can give you more information, including music subscriptions and individual concert tickets. The Arvada Center also offers “Coffee Concerts with Jeffrey Siegel.” These are casual musicales during which Siegel discusses and then uses his piano virtuosity to perform engaging compositions, Wednesdays at 11 a.m.: • “Moods and Tones,” Oct. 4; • “Joyous Beethoven,” Nov. 1; • “The Classic Moderns,” Jan. 17; and • “Storytelling through Music,” March 14. For more information: http:// arvadacenter.org/jeffrey-siegel-coffeeconcerts Siegel also does “Keyboard Conversations,” Wednesday evening concerts (7:30 p.m.) that invite the community to interact with the performer. Before performing, he talks about each piece to help the audiences experience music in new ways and encourages the audience to engage in the

music by asking questions. • “Celebrating Leonard Bernstein,” Oct. 4; • “Music of the Night – The Beautiful and the Bizarre,” Nov. 1; • “Love Inspired Music of Three Great Romantics – Chopin, Schumann and Liszt,” Jan. 17; and • “A Musical Kinship – Bach and Chopin,” March 14. For more information: https:// arvadacenter.org/on-stage/jeffrey-siegelkeyboard-conversations-2 The Arvada Center is also a place for the Front Range Youth Symphony Orchestras that bring together talented young musicians from across the Front Range for unique study and training in orchestral repertoire. It is so successful that the group has toured on both coasts of the United States. The program is intended to be an enhancement to school music programs and has participants perform in three concerts per season at the Arvada Center, held Mondays at 7 p.m.: * Fall Concert, Oct. 23; * Winter Concert, Feb. 5; and * Spring Concert, April 30. For more information: https:// arvadacenter.org/education/youthsymphony

G Line Continued from page 1

Road in Wheat Ridge, two flaggers in hard hats and safety vests sit under umbrellas on either side of the crossing gates, as they do everyday at each crossing along the A and G lines, serving as back up to the gates closing and opening, when a freight train passes through, which it does a few times a day, and as it did on this particular day. About 30 seconds before the lumbering locomotive arrives to within a few hundred yards of the gate, its unmistakable, and very loud, whistle blows. As if on cue, the traffic lights turn solid red for automobiles in all directions, and the crossing gates’ lights flash and arms start to drop. Some drivers look annoyed, and turn their vehicles around. This is a long train. It takes almost exactly five minutes for the last car to pass through the intersection. In less than 10 seconds the gates are back up, lights have stopped blinking, and the flaggers return to their umbrellas, the only shade around. The Ward Road station sticks out like a new thumb amidst industry and a vacant lot. HRE Holdings owns the north side lot, which used to be an alpaca farm. Patrick Henry, principal at HRE, said his development of the site is in no way influenced by the delays of the G Line for whatever reason. With planning and zoning hurdles still to address, “All that takes time. We can’t really move too aggressively,” said Henry, forecasting his residential project to last several years. “I just need it open by 2019.” Back at the winery, Chayer, like RTD and it’s partners in building and managing the line Denver Transit Partners, remains optimistic the commuter line’s silver steel cars will be safely connecting passengers to Olde Town and downtown sooner than later, following approval by the FRA. “We have no plans whatsoever to relocate, despite the rent increase,” she said. “Hopefully it will be a win/win for everybody.” Cheers to that.

2017 Elections Continued from page 1

Responses are published verbatim, although they may have been edited for length (character limits were included in the questionnaire), readability, potential libelous content, offensiveness or poor taste. Responses from candidates running for Wheat Ridge Mayor and Jefferson County Board of Education are published on pages 7 and 8; responses from candidates running for Wheat Ridge City Council will be published in the October issue due to space limitations. (See Patricia Lilliston’s survey of Mountain View mayoral candidates on page 6.) The Neighborhood Gazette will not be endorsing candidates or ballot initiatives. Individual staff members may be involved in political campaigns, but they do not speak officially for the newspaper.

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

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Election 2017 Shines the Spotlight on You believe, is progress tempered by a genuine respect for our existing Wheat Ridge values. This fall the choice will be yours to elect hose selected to govern our city are an leaders who understand that while we are undeniable reflection of the votes that smaller than some neighboring cities, we were cast in our last election. As the leaves should be afforded the same opportunities. begin to change and more yard signs appear, We want to continue to take pride in our it is clear that election season 2017 has city, the safety of our community, the job arrived. This means you once again have a and educational opportunities that exist, job to do. This is your opportunity to help and the investment community members create what you want to see in the way of and the business community city governance. That’s right; the continue to make in securing spotlight is on you to make some a successful future for Wheat serious choices that will have a Ridge. significant impact on our quality When a candidate comes of life and how the work of City to your door, you have the Hall gets accomplished in Wheat opportunity to find out who Ridge. they are and what their plans Keeping that in mind, you are for Wheat Ridge. Take need to ask yourself some the time to tell them what you important questions: Whom want and remember to ask do you trust with the value of them what they see for our your home or business? Who Joyce Jay future. Will they continue on do you want deciding how your the current progressive path tax money is spent? Whom do or do they have a different vision? As we you want determining if Wheat Ridge has evolve, our demographics are changing enough police protection, or what tools our and bringing more young families and police department needs to protect your life professionals into our community. That and property? means our investment as a city in business This year’s ballot includes four open City development and housing should increase. Council positions as well as the position of We also have a large number of residents mayor. It is time to ask ourselves if we view who are retiring and want to stay in the those running for city office as leaders or community they have always called home. just well-meaning community members. How are we planning for the needs of Are their hearts full of what is best for these diverse groups of people? With the G Wheat Ridge, or are they simply looking Line commuter rail line opening this year for a title; or worse yet, are they using the and residential housing being built at The position as a stepping-stone to the next Corners, Clear Creek Crossing, and the West political office? Does your favorite candidate End at 38th, Wheat Ridge will continue to have a vision for our city? Will they work to attract more people. How will we engage protect our community as well as expand them in the community and encourage the future possibilities for growth and economic adoption of what we value in the quality of success? We need people leading city government who understand the big picture, which I Continued on page 6 n By

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LOCALWORKS UPDATE Community Building with Five Fridges Farm n By

Together

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n 2015, Localworks decided to honor the individuals and organizations that contribute to the success of the Wheat Ridge community by presenting two annual Community Builder Awards. The criteria of this award includes: building on Wheat Ridge’s heritage; improving the quality of life today; and demonstrating a vision of a thriving future. One organization that encompasses all of these qualities is the winning organization of the inaugural Community Building Award – Five Fridges Farm. Amanda Weaver owns and operates this sustainable research farm in Wheat Ridge. Weaver and Five Fridges Farm perfectly exemplify the criteria for the award. Five Fridges Farm honors the agricultural heritage of Wheat Ridge by preserving farming spirit in the community. In fact, Weaver purchased the farm in 2010 after apprenticing with the property owner and longtime Wheat Ridge resident Louise Turner, thus preserving the properties agricultural past. She improves the quality of life today by sharing her knowledge and products from the farm with the community. Finally, she focuses on sustainable practices that benefit a positive cycle of long-term food production for people, pollinators and grazers. “The award was a wonderful recognition that urban agriculture does impact and has importance for an urban audience,” said Weaver. “Our community is larger than the people that live in Wheat Ridge.

It also includes that urban wildlife, ecological systems, and environment that makes Wheat Ridge a beautiful and ‘green’ community.” After winning the Community Builder Award, Five Fridges Farm has continued to be a strong community partner. Currently, Weaver is working closely with Localworks’ Activate 38 Program, which will increase active transportation, transit use and accessibility along 38th Avenue between Kipling and Youngfield in Wheat Ridge. “Activate 38 is important to the farm because the farm entrance is along 38th Avenue,” said Weaver. “With as many children and families that come to the farm, I would like to have other ways for them to arrive than only by car.” Weaver is excited that Activate 38 encourages all modes of transportation and connectivity in the community. Of working alongside Localworks, Weaver said, “Localworks is amazing because it encourages a ‘whole’ community. They focus on all of the aspects of how we live - how we eat, play, recreate, do business, and move around. I feel so lucky to have a local organization that, like the farm, considers all aspects of community.” Nominations are currently open for the 2017 Community Builder Award. Nominations are due by Oct. 6, and recipients will be recognized at the 2017 Localworks Annual Meeting on Nov. 9. Learn more and nominate an individual or organization at WeAreLocalworks.org. Ashley Holland is the Marketing and Events Coordinator at Localworks.

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

n By

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

ASK THE EXPERT

Things You May Not Know About Crown Hill Park

Demystifying Property Ownership in Colorado

Jim Cherney

hat may be the busiest parcel of open space in Wheat Ridge is not managed by Wheat Ridge at all. Rather, Crown Hill Park is part of Jefferson County Open Space and is owned, supervised and managed by the County. It may not be surprising to many residents however that Crown Hill Park is the highest utilized Open Space park in the County. According to a 2011 estimate, there were 400,000 visits to the park per year, a number that is undoubtedly significantly higher today. Like much of Wheat Ridge, the property that is now Crown Hill Park was part of an extensive farm owned in the 19th century by the Lee family, who were farmers and quite active in Colorado politics in the latter part of the century. One-hundred-and-eighty acres of the land were sold by the family in 1908 to the Crown Hill Cemetery Association and now represent the Crown Hill Cemetery. But it was not until 1978 that the County joined the cities of Wheat Ridge and Lakewood to purchase the west portion of the land to create Crown Hill Open Space Park. In 1995, a smaller east portion adjacent to the cemetery was acquired, completing the footprint of the park as it currently exists. The park sits on 242 acres of land including the 52-acre Crown Hill Lake, the five-acre Kestrel Pond, three miles of natural surface trail and six-and-a-half miles of hard-surface trails. Mary Ann Bonnell, a Jeffco Open Space Park Ranger and Visitor Services Manager, explains that the park constituency is broad and multi-purpose. It is a hiking, dog walking, biking, horseback riding and exercise destination in addition to being a

throughway for cyclists passing from Denver to Golden or elsewhere. That is why you see lots of people there from early morning to evening – and in between. Bonnell reviewed the significant improvements to the park within the past few years. The Visitor kiosk and restrooms at the 26th and Garland trailhead were rebuilt with water fill stations (including one for dogs). In partnership with Whole Foods, there is now a bike repair station with air pump and tools for the heavy through-bike population on 26th and 32nd. On the south side of the lake, there is a permanent spotting scope for bird and wildlife enthusiasts who didn’t bring their own binoculars. Bonnell also pointed out one difference between Crown Hill and truly urban parks, such as Washington Park in Denver. “Crown Hill has an indigenous herd of deer living in the park and a recent fawn.” Among the wildlife “rock stars” at the park are coyotes, bald eagles, hawks, kestrels and some snapping turtles, who excavate egg nests near the trail in the spring. Quite an array of wildlife (not to mention other birds) for a somewhat urban open space! Bonnell explained that the park administration has been preemptive in addressing issues and needs of the constituency. Three years ago, Jeffco Open Space worked with Wheat Ridge High School to create dedicated space including tables, trash cans and seating areas for students who use the park immediately adjacent to the school. That avoids interference with others using the walking trails and enables the students to enjoy the park space as well. Continued on page 7

In Colorado, the default for joint ownership is tenancy in common. This arried couples are often presented means that if the type of ownership is not with title documents when buying stated in a real property deed, title will be as tenants in common by default. a home stating “joint tenants It is therefore important to with rights of survivorship.” make a determination as to What this means is that when the preferred form of joint one spouse dies, the surviving ownership for any property spouse automatically takes title (real or personal) in which more to the home. The recording of than one person takes title, and the deceased spouse’s death to make sure the title document certificate will create a record (such as the deed) includes the of such ownership. This is in appropriate language. contrast to title as “tenants In my law practice, I often in common,” in which title is find that these and other title retained in the deceased spouse’s Joe Lusk issues arise in nontraditional estate. Here is why the distinction between real estate transactions, such as tax sales or the two types of ownership is important: informal “deals” where no title company is even if the surviving spouse is named as the used for closing. It is best to consult with an decedent’s sole heir, the surviving spouse attorney prior to finalizing such transactions to will need to probate the decedent’s estate ensure the appropriate deed language is used. to transfer title of the home. Probate can be Joe Lusk is a lawyer with Boatright, quite costly when compared to the simple Ripp & Lusk, LLC in Wheat Ridge. He can be reached at 303-423-7131. act of recording a death certificate.

By Joe Lusk

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hether you prefer to vote at a precinct polling site, or mail a completed ballot, Mountain View voters need to be prepared for Tuesday, Nov. 7, Election Day. This November, three candidates will appear on the ballot for Mountain View’s top leadership position: Jeff Kiddie, Glenn Levy and Jon Richardson vie for the position of Mayor of Mountain View. Recently, all three candidates agreed to individual interviews, and responded to topics including the desire for seeking the office, the challenges facing the community, experience and leadership skills.

Jeff Kiddie A Mountain View resident for 60 years, involved in local public service for 25 years, and a business owner, incumbent Mayor Jeff Kiddie states, “I want to continue as the mayor of our community to see that the infrastructure plan introduced to residents at the Town Hall meeting in June 2017, becomes a reality. I also see more involvement from residents at town meetings and events, and I want to build upon their participation.” Kiddie acknowledges that the town’s infrastructure, which he clarifies as the street, gutter and sidewalk areas, is the most challenging project for town government. Kiddie expresses his concern for the condition of the town’s waterline system not only from the mainline structure, but leading into the residential meter box. “I am very familiar with town codes, resolutions, and ordinances. I understand the need and the importance of finding funds and grants for the project. I want to see this project through.” Kiddie describes his leadership style as collaborative with a desire to partner with residents and business owners, council members and staff. “I am open minded at town council meetings, study sessions, and public forums. I highly value the input from residents, staff and council committees in making decisions.”

Glenn Levy Living in Mountain View for 10 years, a current town council member since 2015, and self-employed, mayoral candidate Glenn Levy affirms, “I’m running for mayor because the status quo and solutions of the past are inadequate for the challenges we face today. I believe we need a new, proactive approach to managing our town.” Levy defines his approach as the SMART choice: Smart and Balanced Growth, Making Mountain View sustainable,

Wheat Ridge Mayor Continued from page 4

life here? In the past few years, Wheat Ridge has become part of a regional collaboration. Regional involvement has created access to Denver Regional Council of Government grants for such projects as the Kipling Trail and the widening of Wadsworth. We regularly provide input on issues critical to the development of Jefferson County, including concerns about homelessness, education, business, citizen health, safety, flood control, and bike connectivity — all of which add value to living and working in our city. Our elected officials must also be well prepared to participate in our state legislative process to testify and bring

Activating the community, fostering Responsive government, and enhancing Town revitalization. Levy recognizes the town’s aging infrastructure, the need to diversify the tax base, and the importance for residents to become stakeholders as the main challenges facing the community. Levy emphasizes that he is aware and understands the complexity of these challenges. He states that his professional knowledge and experience will serve him well when he works to solidify the town’s finances, re-develops vacant commercial sites, and addresses the requirements for infrastructure improvement. Levy offers that his leadership style will provide a new vision for the town. He considers himself a problem solver, creative and knowledgeable, and a competent communicator. “I will lead the town towards much needed diversification and growth by bringing in the right experts to steer the discussion, and by asking the most relevant questions so that the town council and our residents can understand the issues and make the best possible decisions for the town’s future.”

Jon Richardson A resident in Mountain View for five years, currently a town council member, and local business owner, mayoral candidate Jon Richardson expresses, “I am running for mayor of Mountain View because it is important for me to be involved in the community where my wife and I are raising our three kids. I want to create the best Mountain View, not only for my own family, but for all the families.” Richardson believes that the biggest challenge for the municipality is establishing and maintaining a sustainable economic growth and development plan. With a focus on sustainability, and longterm budget planning, Richardson says that the essential infrastructure projects, the repair and maintenance of the streets, gutters, alleys and water drainage systems, will be adequately funded and completed in a timely manner. Richardson sees himself as a collaborative leader who is dedicated to teamwork to ensure that staff, council and residents work together. “The town needs a strong leader that is trusted by the residents and employees of Mountain View. I am enthusiastic about our town, and I will bring a young energy to the town leadership. I see our town as small, but diverse. I will be a leader for all residents.” Contact Mayoral candidates, Jeff Kiddie at JKiddie@TOMV.org; Glenn Levy at GLevy@TOMV.org or on Facebook @ Glennformountainview; Jon Richardson at JRichardson@TOMV.org.

forward the wishes and concerns of our community. We are asking a lot of those seeking office, as we should. Now it is your turn to decide who will lead our city. In addition to town hall meetings where you can meet the candidates, on Tuesday, Oct. 3, the League of Women Voters will host an Election Forum from 6 to 8 p.m. at City Hall. The event will be televised on Channel 8 and will be rebroadcast multiple times later that month. Yes, this November it is your turn to choose the principal players of local representative government — and your responsibility to be sure these individuals represent you and the city you love. Contact Wheat Ridge Mayor Joyce Jay at 303-420-8533 or jjay@ci.wheatridge. co.us.

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

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Wheat Ridge Mayoral Candidates

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Joseph DeMott Who: My name is Joe DeMott and I want to be your next Wheat Ridge Mayor. I am a Wheat Ridge native and graduate of Wheat Ridge High School, class of 1990. My family has been serving this community at one of our restaurants, Pietra’s Pizzeria, here in Wheat Ridge since 1964. Public Office: Much of my experience comes from serving on Wheat Ridge City Council from 2009-2013. Volunteer: My volunteer experience includes • Carnation Festival Chair 2014-present • President Wheat Ridge Business District • Chair-elect, Wheat Ridge Chamber of Commerce • Wheat Ridge Housing Authority 2009-2013 Most Important Issues: • I aspire to represent you in a professional and articulate manner and chair friendly and productive Council business meetings. I will continue to advocate for strong public safety to reinforce the teamwork between our nationally recognized first responders. • I will help guide realistic economic development by empowering citizens through a board led process that can get results and save hundreds of thousands of dollars. • There is a disconnect between our citizens and necessary departments within the city. I will demand accountability of our building department by opening communications and easing some of the fears for our citizens. I will listen and advocate for our citizens on transportation issues such as 38th Ave and demand Council make tough decisions without the expense of outside consultants. I will work for a compromise that works for all citizens. I respectfully ask for your vote for Mayor and promise to always represent Wheat Ridge neighborhoods and businesses with the utmost respect. Contact: Citizens for Joe DeMott, Richard Matthews registered agent; Joedemott. com, 303-929-4608, Jdemott4@gmail.com.

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Who: Bud Starker. Mayor. Carpenter, superintendent, construction company owner. Moved to WR in 1975. Built & own West 29th Restaurant & Bar. Married (Mary). 2 grown sons. Enjoy skiing, gardening, family. Public Office: Public Member, Colorado State Board for Architects, Engineers & Professional Land Surveyors 2004-2012; WR Building Code Advisory Board 20092011; WR City Council 2011-2015. Volunteer: Wheat Ridge Business Association, Board of Directors, Treasurer 2015-present; West 29th Marketplace Assoc., founding member, 2014-present; JCBL 2015-present; Jeffco Food Policy Council 2014-2016. Most Important Issues: • Safe and secure neighborhoods – quality of life we enjoy & ability of our citizens, children to seniors, to enjoy the full fruits of our community life together. Safe: increase Neighborhood Watch; promote police-community communications & cooperation; safe street strategies (sidewalks, speed, lighting, crosswalks, drainage). Secure: promote community events; senior housing options; new family neighborhood integration; multigenerational interaction. • Build new opportunities for economic growth & financial stability – encourage thoughtful development that strengthens our economic base. Promote matching-grant business façade improvements; foster interactions between existing business landowners and potential new redevelopment partners; engage new and existing job creators on local economic possibilities; strengthen ties between educational institutions and job opportunities. • Conserve the small-town feel and quality of life we enjoy – be smart and diligent with the new development that is coming. Build projects that have the correct scale, design characteristics and quality that reflects our rural roots and maintains our small-town character. I will use my lifelong experience as a hands-on builder to maximize the value we receive for the public infrastructure dollars we spend and encourage private development to be sensitive to our history. Contact: BudForMayor.net; Bud@BudForMayor.net; Facebook, @BudForMayor; Committee, Bud For Mayor, Chairperson Bud Starker.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – ngazette.com

Jefferson County Board of Education Candidates n Compiled

by Gwen Clayton

Director District 1 Brad Rupert Who: Brad Rupert; Jefferson County School Board, District 1; I am an attorney in private practice; I have lived in Jefferson County for 33 years; my children are Jeffco graduates. Public Office: I have served on the Jefferson County Board of Education for two years. Volunteer: Habitat for Humanity volunteer since 1994. President, Arvada Chamber of Commerce 2002, Board six years. President, Arvada Community Food Bank four years, Board eight years. President, A-J Kiwanis. Most Important Issues: • The ongoing issue is K-12 funding in Colorado has failed to keep up with growth and inflation. Repeated cycles of budget cuts have reduced our ability to attract and retain the best teachers and prevented us from properly maintaining our schools and other facilities. As a District we must continue to improve and deliver on our promise of an excellent education for every child and thereby earn appropriate funding from voters. I am hopeful that voters want and are willing to pay for highly effective schools. We must reform TABOR to allow this to happen. • We must continue to reduce achievement gaps for children living in poverty. We should provide high quality preschool and kindergarten for all children so all children start their formal education on equal footing. We must improve our family engagement so families can support the work done at school. We must expand alternative career pathways for the majority of graduates who will not be attending college. We can prepare these graduates for the many honorable and lucrative careers that don't require a college degree. • After many years of cuts, our schools are showing the neglect. We must build capacity in the growing areas of the District while we maintain and renew the facilities we already have an investment in. Contact: BradforJeffcoKids.com; facebook Brad Rupert for Jeffco Kids; cbrupert@aol.com; Friends of Brad Rupert, 303-456-1100

Matt Van Gieson Who: Matt Van Gieson; Jeffco School Board; Systems Engineer. Born in Jeffco and went through Jeffco public schools. I married another A West grad, we have four children ages 7 yrs old to 12 wks. Public Office: I have not run for public office before. Volunteer: I have volunteered in our schools providing food and supplies to at risk students. I coach my children’s sports teams and I was the President of our PTO, leading fundraising efforts. Most Important Issues: • Jeffco spends a billion dollars a year but only 50% of 3rd graders end the school year reading at grade level. That means every other 4th grader arrives unprepared for fourth grade work. We must do better. I will bring balance to the board, setting achievement goals, and asking tough questions about which programs are working. I will only support spending dollars to help more students succeed. • I volunteered at Pleasant View and experienced the

devastation the school closure caused. We also experienced the anxiety of closure threats at Fitzmorris, our neighborhood school, and Swanson which my wife attended. I do not support closing small schools and splitting communities. We also have enrollment growth in parts of Jeffco and need cost effective solutions for those overcrowded schools. • Many middle schools don’t have room for 6th graders; adding capacity will cost about $50 million. We may lose teacher who don’t have the certification to teach in middle school. Schools like Manning won’t be able to take as many students per grade. Special needs students will lose a year of services. More elementary schools become “small” and subject to closing. I don’t support moving 6th graders. Contact: Visit my website: Matt4JeffcoSchoolBoard. com to find links to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Email me at Matt4JeffcoSchoolBoard@gmail.com Candidate committee: Matt4JeffcoSchoolBoard; Chairperson Brian DeLauro.

Director District 2 Susan Harmon Who: I am Susan Harmon and I am running for re-election to the JeffCo School Board in District 2. I own a family law practice in Lakewood. I have spent my career working for families and kids. Public Office: I am current serving on the JeffCo School Board for District 2 Volunteer: Rooney Ranch Elementary PTA- two years as President; 3 years as 2nd Vice President. I served for two years as the PTA Parent Representative for Elected Officials in my district. More on my website. Most Important Issues: I decided to run in 2015 to address the loss of teachers in our district, and plan to continue to work to attract/retain more great teachers for our classrooms. When we are planning for the success of future JeffCo students, we must continue to work on creating greater equity in our programs and facilities for all students, while addressing the diverse needs of our student populations. This will continue to be imperative as we look to support facilities in high-growth areas. We need to ensure that all students have opportunities and access to multiple pathways for success, while they are in school, and after graduation. We have increased the supports for mental health in our schools, and need to continue to work on this, as well as focusing on the achievement gaps that continue for our student populations. The board must work to strike the right balance with testing in our schools by making sure we have wellrounded accountability systems, without excessive emphasis on standardized testing. The board must continue, despite differences in opinion, to maintain the civility that has been restored within the board room. I look forward to working on these solutions with the community. Contact: Friends of Susan Harmon; Campaign Contact Number/Campaign Staff 303 667-9289; www. keepjeffcomovingforward.com; www.susanforjeffcokids. com; susan@susanforjeffcokids.com; www.facebook.com/ susanforjeffcokids/.

Erica Shields Who: My name is Erica Shields, and I’m running for Jefferson County School in District I have lived in Littleton a little over 10 years. I am a married mom of four children who have all gone through Jefferson County public schools. Public Office: I have never been in or run for public office before.

Volunteer: I have volunteered in my children’s schools over the years as a parent mom as well as PTA mom. I have worked with several organizations to help provide everything from food, school supplies, socks, and other items to those in need. Most Important Issues: • The most important issues I am hearing from my community are student achievement, the threat of closing schools, and moving 6th graders to middle schools. • Providing the opportunity for EVERY student in EVERY Jeffco school to succeed is one of the major issues facing Jeffco. Although recent test scores show that Jeffco is doing better than Colorado on the whole, only 50% of Jeffco students are meeting or exceeding state standards. Many students are so far behind academically it is nearly impossible for them to graduate with the skills they will need for college or career. Although test scores don’t paint the picture of a student’s learning or capabilities we need to do a better job investing the billion dollars we spend each year to ensure our students are achieving at a higher level. • The threats of closing schools is another big issue facing Jeffco families. Far too many communities are concerned and stressed because the board has threatened to close dozens of schools. Placing a school on the potential closure list makes families nervous and often leads to declining enrollment making the school even more vulnerable to closure. Closing a neighborhood school breaks up a community and has devastating effects especially when the school primarily serves low income families. Contact: Email:Erica@ericaforschoolboard.com; Website: www.ericaforschoolboard.com; Twitter: @EricaFor Kids; FB: @EricaForKids; No committee chairperson.

Director District 5 Ron Mitchell (uncontested) Who: Ron Mitchell. I am running for District 5 Jeffco School Board. I am a former Jeffco High School Principal, lifelong Jeffco resident, and graduate of Arvada High School. Public Office: Yes I am currently a Jeffco School Board member. Volunteer: I have spent my life giving back to the community through educating our children. Most Important Issues: • Expanding career pathways for students. Not all students are college bound. By providing vocational, technical, and apprenticeship opportunities to our students, we better prepare our students to thrive in life after school. • Attracting and retaining quality teachers for every classroom. Quality teachers are simply the key to our success in providing education to our children. There is no single tactic that will achieve this goal, but elevating teachers and the teaching profession to ensure they receive the respect and support of the community is an important step. • Focusing resources on updating and remodeling our older school buildings to ensure a first-class learning environment for students. Many of our schools were built 30-50 years ago. It is important to protect the investment previous generations made in these facilities. Contact: Website: http://ronforjeffcokids.com/ & http://keepjeffcomovingforward.com/; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ronforjeffcokids; Email: ron@ ronforjeffcokids.com; Phone: 720.588.2174.

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

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SCHOOL CROSSING

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scheduled to close down at the end of the year had been given an indefinite opportunity s I sat and ate my delicious meal at a to stay open and work on increasing local restaurant here in Wheat Ridge, I enrollment. Pennington in particular ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! overheard a great conversation happening was championed by PTA Vice President 7110 West 44th Avenue at the table next to me., a young boy out to Leah Dozeman, who called neighbors and dinner with his grandparents. They asked knocked on doors to rally the community 720-593-1994 him, “What was one thing they should know to keep this last-standing school in District walnutridgefamilymedicine.com about him?” Clearly he was excited about 4 open. With more active parents around our neighborhood schools, the topic and started chatting students will grow academically and laughing, he wanted to ABC LAUNDRY and emotionally inside our cover all grounds. ABC LAUNDRY Always Bright & Clean classrooms and in their homes. They then asked him to Cautiously excited is the describe himself in three Always Bright & Clean Manning School community. words. Well, that pushed him The cleanest and friendliest laundry in town With a new principal at the over the edge and he protested helm, families have been asked about being restricted to only Drop your laundry from 7-11 am for what they would like to see three words. It was refreshing Weekdays & we’ll do it for you! in the future. This a school that The cleanest and friendliest laundry intotown hear so much energy from $1.50/lb. traditionally has not been open just a conversation. How many Ready in 2 business days! to suggestions. While academic parents out there are pushing Guy Nahmiach Drop your laundry from 7‐11 am Weekdays & standards and results have been their kids with conversations 9990 44th Avenue • Wheat Ridge sky high, the concern was always the “boot on 44th east of Kipling south $1.50/lb. sidewe’ll do it on fortheyou! that don’t revolve around the Broncos or camp” environment that surrounded the ATM on insite Pokemon or ridiculous TV shows. How Ready 2 business days! staff and students. How do you maintain many parents are spending a meal’s time the excellent results without squashing your to listen and really understand what their child’s thirst for knowledge and hunger for children are about? The answer is simple … On 44th East of Kipling on the Southnotside. a challenge? Read Jeena Williams’ (new enough. 9990 44th Ave, Wheat Ridge CO 80033 Parent involvement is the biggest principal at Manning) article in this issue of the Neighborhood Gazette. I am so excited Come in for “Free Soap Tuesday”* factor in how successful a school is and the about the future of Manning. In fact, find outcome of a student’s experience in the out for yourself at Manning’s Open House world of education. I am not suggesting �While supplies last Tuesdays star�ng at 8 a� on Oct. 25, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. that every parent out there join the PTA and With the Wheat Ridge area middle be in charge of some event at their school. schools taking on the sixth grade next year But if you look at the successful schools in – instead of the short two years in which our city, it’s easy to point out why they are Christina Pulciani students and parents kept their heads down successful and what they are doing well to Agency Owner and hoped for the best – it becomes a threecontinue to attract families from all districts 6701 W. 44th Avenue 303-463-1750 including those outside our city borders. Continued on page 11 We were all excited to hear that schools CPulciani@allstate.com n By

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Answers to Questions Posed to Jefferson County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jason Glass Jeffco failed a mill levy override and bond election in November of 2016. Some say it was a matter of lack of trust with the district. How will you go about rebuilding that trust? In my professional experience, the main reason school districts fail when they go to the voters for facilities improvements (through bonds) or added operational dollars (through mill levy overrides) is because of low organizational trust and a lack of credibility with the community. Looking back at Jeffco Public School’s recent political history, it isn’t hard to understand why many voters felt uncomfortable sending more money to an organization which had been at the center of what may have been the nation’s worst example of hyper-partisan politics in a local school district. If you are going to ask people to separate themselves from their own money, you have to have built a high level of trust that good things are going to happen with those dollars. An atmosphere of political acrimony does not beget a positive outcome when it comes to asking voters for more dollars. If Jeffco Public Schools decides to go before the voters again in the future (and we have no current plans to do that), I think we’ll need to do three key things. First and foremost, we need to rebuild trust with the community. This happens through an intentional effort to show the community the good things happening in our schools and for our kids. Jeffco Public Schools works miracles on behalf of students every day and we need to do a better job telling those stories, celebrating our successes, and sharing the good work. To rebuild trust, we also have to keep our noses clean and steer the organization away from any major negative issues. We’ll be working on sharing those stories through a focused and intentional communications effort and we’ll be working on keeping the district on a positive path through engaged and competent management. The second thing I think is necessary is a positive and forward-focused vision that the community can get excited about. I don’t think it’s possible to run a successful election effort through whining about what we don’t have – instead, we need to excite and ignite our community about where we are going and what we could do with additional dollars. We can’t just ask for more money to do what we’ve always done. If we want our community to support us, we’re going to need to put forth something that gets them fired up about the future. Finally, I think we’ve got to show our community that we are responsible and efficient with the dollars we already get, and that they are getting a lot of positive productivity out of us. On top of that, I also think that we have to create additional transparency and accountability for any new dollars we get. We need to be able to clearly explain where any new dollars are going, what they would be used for, and provide the voters ways to hold us accountable for doing what we said we would do. Again, we don’t have any immediate plans to go back to the polls. And, frankly, I think that’s a good thing. We’ve got some real work to do in order to be worthy of the community’s confidence and respect – and we’re ready and willing to do that work. Thank you, Dr. Jason Glass If you have a question for our new Superintendent please submit it to guy@ NostalgicHomes.com or call it in to 303-999-5789.

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

SCHOOL VISITOR PASS

WHE

RID

All Means All: The Manning School Looks to the Future n By

Jeena Williams

ello, my name is Jeena Williams and I am a recovering classroom teacher. Piles of ungraded essays still haunt my nightmares – as do answering pointed emails from parents, supervising homecoming, and navigating hallways during passing periods. That said, a part of me wishes I still led freshmen and juniors in discussions about Robert Frost and William Shakespeare and “The Declaration of Independence,” and I carry with me these lessons from my students’ insightfulness: that all kids can learn and that public education has the urgent responsibility to build communities worthy of our kids’ collective potential. I am now lucky enough to lead Manning, a school that’s proud to provide a safe space for amazing kids to think critically, be creative, work hard, learn rich content, grow as people and as learners, and achieve great things. This year we are tasked with welcoming fresh perspectives into the building while navigating a looming second order change: We will, with other Wheat Ridge area middle schools, welcome sixth graders to our unique culture in the 20182019 school year. This calls us to have robust dialogue with our stakeholders about who we are, what traditions we must keep and how we might need to shift to accommodate a new group of students. Recently, I asked our families: Why did you choose Manning for your kids? If you could, what might you change about Manning? What kinds of things do you want your kids to do and learn while they’re in middle school? And what should we consider as we welcome sixth graders into our community? From their 100-plus survey responses, four themes rose to the surface: 1) Families want their kids to be great students who know how to manage time, complete work meticulously, be organized, take copious notes, learn key skills in core content area, and be prepared for the rigors of high school, college, and the world beyond. 2) Families want students to be critical thinkers who are challenged to persist

School Crossing Continued from page 10

year commitment where the middle schools will have to up their game and really prepare students for high school. A long-term vision will be important. Which program and what high school will your student set their sights on, and which middle school do you feel will best prepare them for that journey? In the same breath, I bring up my concern that while we are so focused on getting our students college and career ready, what standards do we hold our elementary and middle schools to in truly preparing grade after grade full of aspiring students for high school? We don’t hold kids

through productive struggle, express complicated ideas, evaluate the thinking of others, support sophisticated arguments with meaningful evidence, develop and test hypotheses, and solve complex, relevant, real-world problems. 3) Families want kids to love learning, to experience joy and wonder in and out of a typical classroom, and to be inspired by staff members who care about them and individualize instruction to meet their needs. 4) Finally, and for many most importantly, families want their kids to be good people who build healthy relationships; advocate for themselves; have integrity; serve their community; develop as leaders; and be confident, self aware, courageous, disciplined, kind individuals. Parents understand that adolescence is a critical and difficult time, and they believe our school ought to serve them as whole children with a wide range of needs beyond just academics. And just about all of them asked me fix the parking lot. I’m working on it. The Manning staff is working persistently and thoughtfully to craft experiences that ask kids to grow as great students, critical thinkers, lifelong learners and principled people while honoring our traditions of academic excellence and high expectations. In this endeavor, we aim to have courage – to be authentically who we are, to stand up to forces who would ask us to change too abruptly, to question the next big thing and to challenge conventional wisdom. We need all stakeholders to help us make critical decisions and to tell us when we misstep. It is our privilege to serve this community and its extraordinary kids; we will do our best to meet the challenge inherent in John O’Donohue’s observation: “The duty of privilege is absolute integrity.” Sincerely, Jeena Williams Jeena Williams is the Principal of The Manning School. Questions for this guest writer or suggestions for future guest writers should be sent in to Guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

back anymore. We hope that they will “catch up” at some point. So when Johnny becomes a freshmen reading only at fifth grade level, who do we point to? More importantly, how do avoid this situation in the first place? Finally on a more personal note, this is my first week after dropping off my oldest at the University of Toronto. While my heart feels like it’s been ripped apart, I take great comfort for the amazing work each school has done in getting this student ready for the next four years. Make sure you spend the time with yours. Get to know who they are and what makes them tick. What do they want you to know about them? As always, thanks for reading.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – ngazette.com

WEST METRO FIRE

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS Ribbon Cutting at Ackerman Engineering, Sept. 28 Wheat Ridge Business Association and the City of Wheat Ridge invite members to a Ribbon Cutting at Ackerman Engineering, Thursday, Sept. 28, 5 p.m., 3000 Youngfield St., Suite 264. Ackerman Engineering, Inc. was established in 2000 as a full-service electrical engineering and lighting design firm. They offer decades of experience and a commitment to customer service unparalleled in the industry. For more information, call 303-2787297.

Infinitus Pie Celebrates Patio Grand Opening Sept. 29-Oct. 1 The Wheat Ridge location of Infinitus Pie (IPIE) will celebrate a grand opening for its new patio the weekend of Sept. 29. “After a full summer of working with the city, contractors and manufacturers, it is finally here! And we are throwing a big pizza party to celebrate,” said iPie’s Nicholas Roemer. “We now have a great capacity, and the patio is equipped with a bicycle parking rack capable of holding over 25 bicycles.” Cyclists receive free sodas, water, lemonade or tea. Entertainment for the weekend will be live music on Friday, and Saturday, karaoke on Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m., as well as patio games and a raffle. Promotional offers include $5 craft draft beers (16 oz.), and $6 for unlimited topping 8-inch pizza pies. Infinitus Pie is located at 5807 W. 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge; call 720-287-5915 for more information.

Sit Means Sit Dog Training Open House Oct. 7 & 8 Wheat Ridge Business Association and the City of Wheat Ridge invite members to a Ribbon Cutting at Sit Means Sit Dog Training-Wheat Ridge, on Friday, Oct., 6, 3 p.m., 4949 Marshall St. They will also have an open house on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. Programs at Sit Means Sit include: Puppy Management, Basic and Advanced Obedience, Behavior Modiﬁcation, Aggression, Private, Group and Boarding Training. Faster, Smarter, Better! For more info, call 303-422-3647.

WRBA Serves Up LinkedIn Tips at Breakfast Meeting At Wheat Ridge Business Association’s next monthly breakfast meeting, Oct. 10, social-media trainer and tutor Joyce Feustel presents “Using LinkedIn to Enhance Face to Face Networking,” where attendees will learn to personalize and customize the app to increase connections. It takes place 7 to 9 a.m. at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. $15 for members, $18 nonmembers. Visit www.wheatridgebiz.com or call 720-588-2317.

Denny’s in Wheat Ridge Unveils New, Locally Inspired Design Denny’s in Wheat Ridge recently unveiled its all-new, locally inspired design. The remodeled restaurant is part of Denny’s new Heritage brand re-imaging campaign, which has been rolled out to more than half of all Denny’s nationwide. Check it out at 9930 W. 49th Ave.

October 2017 Membership Breakfast Date: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 Time: 7:00-9:00 pm Location: Wheat Ridge Recreation Center – 4005 Kipling St. Cost: $15 for WRBA Members, $18 for Non-members SPEAKER: Penny Joyce Feustel TOPIC: Using LinkedIn to Enhance Face to Face Networking

More Than 2,100 Climb To Remember 9/11 Responders ■ By

Ronda Scholting

s a hazy sun rose over the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a small crowd of people, dressed in blue t-shirts, grew to more than 2,100. All were there to take part in the ninth annual Colorado 9/11 Stair Climb, to remember the first responders who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. And, as the sun battled with clouds overhead, each pair of feet would take nearly 2,000 steps – the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center, a total of nine laps around the amphitheater. The climbers came from 16 states, representing 60 fire agencies from Colorado and across the country. “It’s amazing to see the support we have each year for this event,” said Shawn Duncan, a lieutenant with West Metro Fire Rescue and co-coordinator of the climb. “We had people here just after 6 am, waiting in line to register.” Duncan and Cody McGinnis, an Aurora firefighter, are the co-coordinators of the event and rely on an army of volunteers and sponsors to turn their idea into a reality each year. “We wanted to do something to both remember the 343 firefighters who died trying to save lives that day, and to help the families they left behind,” said McGinnis. The climb benefits the FDNY Counseling

Services Unit and the programs provided by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to support their families. So far, more than $2 million has been raised through stair climb events around the country. The Red Rocks event is the largest of its kind – this year participants raised nearly $70,000. And while most climbers wear t-shirts and shorts during the moderately strenuous event, in the crowd, you can see firefighters, dressed completely in “bunker” gear – heavy coats and pants – with helmets on their heads. Some even are “on air” – with face masks, connected to air tanks, breathing compressed air as they climb. And, as the tanks begin to run dry, you can hear the alarms sound – warning the wearer that air and time are running out. “As a firefighter, we’re trained for the worst scenarios,” said Duncan. “Even so, it’s hard to imagine what they saw that day as they climbed the stairs of the World Trade Center. They had to know it was likely they were not going to make it out. That’s why we do this – to remember their sacrifice.” Registration for next year’s Colorado 9/11 Stair Climb opens early next summer. Watch www.911stairclimb.com for details. Ronda Scholting is the Communications/Media Relations Specialist for West Metro Fire Rescue; contact her at rscholting@westmetrofire.org or 303-941-8317.

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ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

WHAT’S HAPPENING Carnation Festival Student Bench Auction Raises More than $1,000 The Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival Student Garden Bench Auction raised more than $1,000 for local schools. Eleven schools in Wheat Ridge submitted benches to the auction that were painted by their students. The highest bid of $400 went to Everitt Middle School for its bench that featured Denver’s skyline against a mountain backdrop. The benches were built by Wheat Ridge High School students using donated lumber. The Colorado Construction Institute provided instruction and support to the students as part of a larger effort to equip Jefferson County students with real-world skills. Money raised through the auction will benefit each participating school's art department. This is the second year that the Wheat Ridge Education Alliance (WREA) has joined forces with local schools, the Colorado Construction Institute, and the Carnation Festival to highlight studentconstructed projects. Last year, students built and decorated picnic tables to raise funds at the festival auction. Established in April of 2014, the mission of the WREA is to advance educational excellence in Wheat Ridge schools by working together with city officials, community members, business owners, and educators.

Discuss ‘The Ringer’ With Wheat Ridge Reads, Sept. 21 & 23 The Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission has chosen Jenny Shank’s “The Ringer” for this year’s Wheat Ridge Reads community reading program. Set over the course of a baseball season, “The Ringer” weaves a fictional story of the aftermath of an inadvertent police shooting. The sons of the triggerman and the victim all play youth league baseball, bringing the families together in a stunning climax that doesn’t resolve the situation, but releases the tension of the story. Shank will discuss her book and share some writing insights during three free Wheat Ridge Reads events: Thursday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m. during Wheat Ridge Library’s Thursday Morning Book Club at Ye Olde Firehouse, 3232 Depew St.; that afternoon at Wheat Ridge High School with students and faculty; and Saturday, Sept. 23, 4 p.m., at El Aguascalientes, 4105 Wadsworth Boulevard, for a community discussion. Now in its sixth year, Wheat Ridge Reads promotes literacy through a common reading experience among community members and culminates with three author presentations in September. Teenagers and adults are encouraged to read the book and join the discussion at one of these events. Copies of “The Ringer” are available at Jefferson County Public Libraries, BookBar, 4280 Tennyson St., and electronically. For more information, contact Wheat Ridge Cultural Commissioner At Large Gay Porter DeNileon at gpdenileon@gmail.com.

LWV Jeffco to Host School Board Info Meeting Sept. 26 Join your neighbors and the League of Women Voters Jeffco for a school board election informational meeting on Sept. 26 from 7 to 9 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 9200 W. 10th Ave., in Lakewood. This year, three of the five board seats for Jefferson County Public Schools will be open. The League’s Education team will host a panel of experts to explain and discuss how a school board sets goals, adopts policies and keeps students at the foremost of decision making. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the role of the school board, or to learn if you would like to explore becoming

a candidate for the school board. For more information visit www.lwvjeffco.org or call 303-238-0032.

Honey Festival, Japanese Cooking Class at Four Seasons Market Colorado Honey Festival will take place at Four Seasons Farmers & Artisans Market on Saturday, Sept. 23 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Chef Yosuke Suzuki returns for another session of the popular Slice and Dice Japanese Cooking Class on Sept. 30. Register early for your space. These classes fill up quickly! Find more information or RSVP at www. fourseasonsfam.com.

Wellness Fair at Evolition, Sept. 30 Evolition will host a wellness fair featuring local providers who offer different types of bodywork and movement therapies, individual and group fitness, nutrition and emotional health counseling, esthetics and more. There will be giveaways for various services and retail items as well as educational talks and demonstrations throughout. The event takes place at Elevation Physical Therapy and Inspiration Fitness, 1901-1921 Youngfield St. from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 30. For more information, contact Tiffany Bucknam of Evolition, 303-906-3696.

Localworks’ ‘Pop-Up’ Safety event Oct. 1-7 AARP has awarded a Community Challenge grant to Localworks for its Activate 38 program. The grant will help Localworks increase active transportation, transit use and accessibility along 38th Avenue between Kipling and Youngfield streets. Localworks’ winning submittal is a neighborhood “popup” tactical urbanism intervention along the busy 38th Avenue corridor west of Kipling, to be conducted Oct. 1 through 7. This corridor has few facilities for walking, biking and wheelchair rolling, and the demonstration will encourage the local community to learn more about improving these facilities, and enable conversations for change with the city. Residents and coalition members are working with Localworks within this focus area to examine infrastructure, overall walk and roll ability, and general safety. The area has been previously prioritized for infrastructure, a fatality has occurred on the corridor, and there are numerous safety concerns from residents. There were 22 grant applicants in the state of Colorado, and Localworks is one of two selected in the state. Learn more about Activate 38 and the upcoming “pop-up” event at WeAreLocalworks.org/Activate-38.

2017 Election and Ballot Issues Forum Oct. 3 The Wheat Ridge Chamber of Commerce will host a forum to discuss upcoming election and ballot issues. It will take place on Oct. 3 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Wheat Ridge City Hall in Council Chambers, 7500 W 29th Ave. All Wheat Ridge residents and businesses are encouraged to attend. For details, visit www.wheatridgechamber.org/events.

St. John’s to Bless Animals on Oct. 7 On Oct. 7, at 9 a.m. there will be a Blessing of the Animals at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 13151 W. 28th Ave. in Applewood. The short outdoor service will feature music and prayer, followed by coffee,

juice and treats. For the safety of all present animals must be leashed or in their carriers/ containers.

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For more information, visit www.stjohngolden.org.

Historical Society’s Apple Cider Day is Oct. 14 Bring your own apples and containers to hold the cider pressed on the Wheat Ridge Historical Society’s presses on Apple Cider Day, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Historic Park 4610 Robb St. There will also be craft demonstrations. Cost is $5, and lunch is served for a nominal fee. Listen to or join in on the live music. For more information, visit www.wheatridgehistoricalsociety.org.

Explore Wheat Ridge Bus Tour, Oct. 21 On Saturday, Oct. 21, the public is invited to take a bus tour of the City of Wheat Ridge. This outing delves into new developments and projects around town, while allowing attendees the opportunity to learn more about the city and how to become more involved with Localworks. The $10 cost includes a beverage ticket for Rickoli’s (beer or in-house brewed cherry soda or root beer), as well as samples of delicious pizza from Infinitus Pie following the tour. The tour runs from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.wearelocalworks.org.

Mental Health First Aid Colorado – CPR for the Brain A number of organizations in Jefferson County are joining forces to promote and coordinate a countywide expansion of the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Colorado initiative. MHFA has become a full-blown movement in the United States; adopted by law enforcement, human services organizations, schools, colleges and many others as a critical skill in supporting the mental health needs of communities. In Jefferson County, 13 organizations deliver MHFA every week, having trained more than 3,500 individuals and counting. Community First Foundation, through its Lutheran Legacy Fund, continues this shared vision and commitment to training several more thousand people in MHFA. They have awarded funding to Jefferson Center to facilitate Jefferson County’s development of a new and sustainable model of MHFA in our communities called the MHFA Jeffco Collaborative, and will build upon the successful growth of MHFA in our area in recent years. Mental Health First Aid teaches people how to: recognize signs of addictions and mental health problems; respond to a developing mental health issue or a crisis; use a proven 5-step action plan to help and connect those in need with local resources to help. To learn more, schedule a training or help the initiative, please go to www.mjfajeffco.org or call 303-432-5155.

Trunk or Treat Returns Oct. 28 One of the area’s favorite fall activities, Trunk or Treat, will take place on Oct. 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. A fun, safe trick or treat for kids and their families with participation from firefighters, the police, businesses and community members. Participants decorate their cars and trucks with creative disguises and hand out candy to kids. The event, which will take place on the Green, 7101 W. 38th Ave., features a haunted house, carnival games a Trunk Decorating Contest and “Thriller” zombie dancers. For details visit http://wearelocalworks. org/.

Floral Paradise on 38th Avenue On the corner of 38th Avenue and Teller Street sits Posey Girl Floral Boutique. This floral oasis opened its doors in April of 2011. Posey Girl’s owner, Susannah Burley, is a self-described botanically smitten artist. Passionate about shape, color, and natural elements, she ardently wanted a shop of her own where she could practice, experiment and share her whimsical and unusual floral perspective. According to Burley, signing a lease on 38th Avenue in Wheat Ridge was a lucky impulse. She credits her neighborhood customers and word-of-mouth advertising for the shop’s success. Burley loves supporting Wheat Ridge and has worked with many community groups. She has provided arrangements for the Mid Century Modern Home Tour and the Carnation Festival. She has also donated flowers and gift certificates to Treasure Trunk, Family Tree, local churches, and pre-school fundraisers. “It is hard to say no to a donation request that could be an opportunity to learn about our community organizations and the inspiring people who run them,” said Burley. Burley is passionate about designing with an array of unusual seasonal blooms and elements. “These days, you can easily pick up a bouquet of flowers before you check out at the grocery store,” said Burley, “So, I make an effort to source flowers, foliage and elements that you can’t find anywhere else.” Her unique designs don’t end with the floral arrangement. Burley also has an eye for exceptional vases. In addition to clear glass, ceramic, and wood, Posey Girl has a groovy collection of vintage and handmade vases. Burley also encourages her clients to bring vases from home to allow her arrangements to seamlessly fit into their home’s décor. For the last several years, Posey Girl has been delighted to offer flowers, herbs and foliage from Wheat Ridge and Lakewood. Mid-summer through fall is the best time for locally grown flowers, and Burley treasures her visits to the local farms. She is adamant about doing all of her own purchasing so she can choose the most inspiring, fragrant and vibrant blooms for the cooler. In addition to cut flowers and floral design, the shop offers locally made soaps handmade cards and jewelry by local artists. They also offer several private design classes. The shop displays an unconventional selection of houseplants and succulents. These days you will find various philodendron, ornamental peppers, pencil cactus, ivies, and more. Distinctive pots and containers that can be found in all corners of the shop transform a plant into a gift. Explore Posey Girl’s unique designs Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm and on Sundays from 10am until 3pm and on their Facebook and Instagram. Posey Girl Flowers can be found online at poseygirlflowers.com or by phone at (303)847-0124. COURTESY OF

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – ngazette.com

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• Genetically, ovarian cancers are linked to breast cancers. Again, if you have a family history, talk to your doctor as these mong the health observances that genetically inherited cancers can often be occur in September, gynecologic prevented. cancer awareness is a good reminder to stay Cervical cancer has decreased current with screenings. There are more significantly in the United States with the than 100,000 gynecologic malignancies advent of Pap Smears. diagnosed every year, encompassing five • Pap smears are not always needed different cancers. Uterine, also known as annually with the added HPV testing done endometrial cancer is the most common. today. If you have had positive Ovarian cancer is the second high-risk HPV, you likely need most common gynecologic more regular screening. cancer, followed by cervical, • Pap smears should vulvar and vaginal cancer. not automatically stop at 65Women should be aware 70 years of age. If you have of risk factors and symptoms had abnormal screens, cervical as they relate to each of these carcinoma, or high-risk HPV cancers as they can be either in the past you likely need Pap prevented or detected early in screening for life, including after many instances. a hysterectomy. In the case of uterine cancer: • Cervical cancer also can • Postmenopausal bleeding Glenn Bigsby be prevented with the advent is cancer until proven otherwise. of the HPV vaccination. This can Seek medical attention ASAP if this occurs. be given to both boys and girls between • Obesity is one of the biggest risk the ages of 9 and 26. The recommended factors for uterine cancer, especially age is 10-11 years old for the most effective during premenopause. Menstrual cycle immune response. irregularities should be followed closely. Vaginal cancer is similar to cervical • Genetically, uterine cancers are cancer and is related to the HPV virus. If sometimes linked to colon cancers. If you you have had HPV, Pap smears should be have a strong family history of either cancer, continued at regular intervals. talk to your physician. Vulvar cancer can be detected early. See Ovarian cancer, which is commonly your doctor ASAP if you experience vulvar diagnosed in later stages, is often known as skin lesions, persistent itching, pain or the silent cancer. bleeding in the vulvar area. • Symptoms include bloating, changes in Routine exams are recommended for bowel or bladder habits, decreased appetite, early diagnosis of gynecologic cancers. pelvic pain and discomfort - things women n By

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hat if I told you that one out of every three bites of food Americans consume comes from a plant visited by bees or other pollinators? More than $15 billion worth of crops are pollinated by bees each year just in the United States alone. Before you start thinking this is another political piece about Trump, Hillary, Bernie or Daryl & his other brother Daryl, let me assure you that it’s simply an awareness piece about our very own neighborhoods right here in Wheat Ridge. The way yards are connected right across this little town. Fences keep dogs in and neighbors out, but both pesticides and our pollinating friends are not restricted by any kind of fencing. The chemicals you are using on weeds are not only harming the bees coming over to my apple tree, they are also seeping into the ground and down into the water table. One of every three bites can include carrots, zucchini, blueberries, apples … the list is endless, but so are the consequences. Imagine a third of our food supply being replaced by artificial ingredients. Think of the jobs and livelihoods affected by the harm done on agriculture, gardening stores, grocery chains, farms, tractor factories and the list goes on. We share the air and we share the water. Remember the days of smoking sections on airplanes? It’s not like

the nonsmoking section was getting a supply of clean air from a secret compartment. Speaking of Daryl & Daryl, my awesome neighbors Janet and Tim brought over some of the 5 Fridges goats to take care of the weeds in the back. I did find out that goats love to climb fences and eat cherry trees as well. But rest assured that my flowers will bloom and vegetables will taste great in a just few weeks. It doesn't take much to avoid chemicals. It’s not a political statement. Simply caring for not only the yard you own, but the same piece of land that another family will own 50 years from now. It’s the very definition of sustainability. Keeping a business healthy or a home in good shape to hand down to the next generation. We are always curious as to who lived in our home prior to us … but what about long after we’re gone? Weed barriers work great for gardens, boiling water with salt will work wonders on the weeds in your driveway and of course there’s always elbow grease with a glass of wine. You can join the Wheat Ridge Urban Gardeners and the Wheat Ridge Sustainability pages on FB and find out what others are doing. Of course you are always welcome to share with us here at the Neighborhood Gazette your own recipe for healthy gardening. Contact Guy Nahmiach at 303-9995789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.Com.

REACH UP TO 25,000 READERS MONTHLY! Call Tim Berland 303-995-2806 • tim@ngazette.com

ngazette.com – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Owls at Home in Both Wilds and Suburbs n By

Sally Griffin

y first face-to-face encounter with an owl occurred when my husband and I decided at the last minute to head down to Taos. The only place available at our favorite bed and breakfast was an old sheepherder’s homemade camper, parked behind the main building. It actually was quite cozy. The bed was a mattress positioned above the cab of an old World War II troop carrier. But it had a sunroof right above your head – and when I say right above, I mean inches above. We had settled in for the night and were talking softly about what we wanted to do the next day. Suddenly, a ghostly white face with huge eyes was examining us from inches away. Before, I could run away screaming, my husband laughed and identified the face as belonging to a barn owl. Then we heard a scribbling noise on the roof and she disappeared for minute, only to return almost immediately. This occurred several times, until we figured out that she had a caught a mouse that she was carrying back to her nest. Evidently, we were so interesting that she temporarily forgot about the mouse in her curiosity to see what was going on in the camper. Eventually, we no longer seemed exciting and she gathered up her mouse and flew away into the night. According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the odds are that we all have some owls living nearby. Able to thrive almost anywhere in the United States, some of them are equally at home in the wilderness or suburban settings. Colorado has 14 different types of owls: 1) Flammulated, the smallest owl at 2.1 ounces; 2) Northern Pygmy, which is not much bigger and is diurnal, as opposed to nocturnal; 3) Northern Saw-Whet, whose name indicates how it sounds; 4) Boreal,

whose diet is primarily the re-backed vole; 5) Burrowing, which is commonly found in Prairie Dog burrows; 6) Western Screech, whose name also indicates how it sounds; 7) Eastern Screech; 8) Long Eared, who makes its home in the widest range of elevations in Colorado; 9) Short-Eared, who nests in the ground; 10) Barn, who is named because of his fondness for nesting in man-made structures; 11) Spotted, who likes canyons and cliffs; 12) Great Horned, who has the most varied diet of any North American owl or hawk; 13) Snowy, which comes south occasionally and is the only other diurnal owl in Colorado; and 14) Barred, which is usually just a visitor, but there are indications it could be the next permanent Colorado owl specie. As nocturnal predators, owls are superb. A barn owl can see prey with night vision that is 35 times below the lowest level light that humans can see. Owls’ eyes are fixed in their sockets, which limits their field of vision. This is probably why they rotate their heads up to 270 degrees. Using only their hearing, barn owls can even hunt in total darkness. Ornithologists think that, because one ear is higher than the other, they can triangulate sounds by tilting their heads up and down and from side to side. A barn owl’s ears are huge and located on a face that is designed to collect sound. They can hear a mouse from as far away as 400 yards. Owls don’t want to expend any energy that they don’t have to. They usually do their nesting in nests that have been built by other large birds or in other spaces that fit their needs. This may be the reason you may see them being harried by other birds. This nesting behavior included a nesting pair of owls at the garden center at Lowe’s in Colorado Springs. Lowe’s worked with wildlife officers to make sure the owls had a safe location in the garden center and the mating pair produced three owlets.

The owls served, both, as an attraction and to take care of the destructive rabbit population that came in to the Center from the adjoining fields. Having a loud voice enables owls to command large territories without having to expend energy chasing away intruders. Great Horned owls have territories of over a square mile. Northern Pygmy Owls have whistles that can be heard from a half-mile away. According to Wild Birds Unlimited, Great Horned Owls make a noise like you are saying, very slowly, “Who’s awake? Me, too!” Of course, what I have heard sounds more like “whooo...whooo…who…who.” Their near-silent flight enables owls to ambush even those prey who know they are near. Their feathers are softened at the tips, which reduces any wind noise. I have experienced being strafed by a Great Gray Owl. It was very early morning when my husband and I were finding our way down a long driveway in an oak forest. Suddenly, there was a displacement of the air and the sense of something large above our heads – understandable, since the wingspan of a Great Gray Owl can be almost six feet. Sure enough, we used our flashlight

to spot the landing of a large female onto a branch above and slightly in front of us. She was clearly concerned about what we were doing in her territory. But, while she watched us closely, she allowed us to proceed without further hindrance. Many cultures all over the world have associated owls with death and the supernatural. This is probably because owls hunt at night and seem to float silently through the darkness. They have booming voices that seem to come from several directions at once. Their upright posture and forward-facing eyes give owls the appearance of ghostly humans. But in fact, like Lowe’s, we should be glad to have them. Pretty much all they need are a few trees or a barn-like structure, some open areas for hunting and an abundance of prey. Their first menu choice is rodents, but they will also dine on rabbits and skunks when these creatures come out at dusk or dawn. Tina Mitchell, a CU researcher, says: “In reality, owls deserve our respect and deep appreciation. Without the keen skills of these mighty nocturnal hunters, the rodent population might now be running the world while we sleep. Who’s awake, indeed …”

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – SEPTEMBER 19 – OCTOBER 16, 2017 – ngazette.com

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