Neighborhood Gazette-June 2015 by Neighborhood Gazette

Community Tackles Park Issues see page 4

Festival to Feature Young Music Talent see page 7

Friday Night Live Returns July 3 see page 15

Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

Wheat Ridge | Edgewater | JUNE 18 – JULY 17, 2015

Whimsical, Xeric and More: Wheat Ridge Garden Tour By Cyndy Beal

eather happens. It just is; but creating a garden doesn’t just happen, it’s visionary, work and the accumulation of seasons. Now in its fifth year the annual Wheat Ridge Garden Tour has become a summer seasonal staple, growing and changing each year. This year on Saturday, July 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., there are eight garden showcases for tour attendees to explore. All of the gardens are new to the tour. The tour starts in Pietra’s Pizza parking lot at 9045 W. 44th Ave. Those wanting to participate in the guided Bike Tour are encouraged to gather at 8 a.m. and plan to depart together at 8:30 a.m. Tickets are $15, which includes lunch, donated by Pietra’s and served at one of the gardens mid-way on the tour. Tickets may be purchased on the day of the tour or in advance at www.WheatRidgeGardenTour. com. Tickets for children under 11 years are free. Tour participants will receive a brochure with a map and descriptions of each garden. Proceeds from the ticket sales benefit community organizations. Over the past four years, the tour has donated over $4,500 to seven Wheat Ridge organizations, such as Feed the Future, Family Tree and the Cultural Commission Public Art Fund. This year’s proceeds will benefit the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation and Collier’s Hospice at Lutheran Medical Center. New this year, each of the eight gardens will feature one original art piece, with a connection to nature, and created by professional artists. One garden will have

artwork from Wheat Ridge High School students. The gardens are of varied styles (cottage, whimsical, xeric and others). Some of the gardens incorporate different approaches and styles that coexist together on a single property.

Water-wise pretty perennials

Katie Bookler and Mike Shupe’s property offers varied landscape styles. The couple bought their 1958 brick home in Wheat Ridge in 2006. The front landscaping was stuck in the 1970s, with sod, and a line of unruly juniper bushes along the edge of the property. They decided it was in need of an update. The goal was not just for a fresh look, with the addition of color and texture, but a focus on a more xeric approach and low maintenance. They also wanted the landscaping to work with and complement the mature trees in both the front and back yards. Bookler is more of the visionary of the two and has spent countless hours of research in finding the right plants for the right spots. Shupe does more of the laborintensive projects, and both spend a great deal of time outside weeding, as well as just enjoying their outside spaces. Both were and are experienced gardeners who had amassed a great deal of knowledge from their previous properties. Starting in about 2010, they removed all of the sod from the front yard and began planting. They added four inches of mulch to slow evaporation, retain the top soil and protect the plants from extremes and fluctuations in temperature. They now Continued on page 5

Bluegrass, Beer and Big Band Sound Bless the Sts. Peter & Paul Summer Festival By Zach Urban

Friday-night blessing of beer will kick off the seventh annual Saints Peter and Paul Summer Festival, June 26 at 5 p.m., 3900 Pierce St. in Wheat Ridge. A parish festival is a long-held tradition in many church communities around the world used to celebrate a special day, or to commemorate the feast day of a saint. The Saints Peter and Paul Summer Festival is a three-night festival held annually during the last weekend of June to celebrate the feast day of Saints Peter and Paul, which is traditionally observed on June 29. The proceeds from this festival benefit the mission of Saints Peter and Paul Parish and School, and provides an opportunity to come together as a community, to have fun, eat great food, play games, ride rides, and dance to some great local music. The festival will take place on the

campus of the Saints Peter and Paul Parish and School. It concludes on Sunday night, June 28, at 8 p.m. with the drawing for the cash raffle grand prize of $2,000. New this year at the festival will be a bluegrass band named No. 9 Coal, playing on Sunday evening. It’s a traditional acoustic Bluegrass band from the Denver area, and sets consist of old Bill Monroe and Flatt Scruggs songs to brand-new, oldsounding No. 9 Coal originals! Featuring Aaron "Double A" Ingersoll on mandolin, Mike Owens on flat top guitar, Michael "Dr. Bass" Rudolph on the doghouse bass, and Lachlan McLean on five-string banjo, the No. 9 Coal sound is rich with threeand four-part harmonies, sticking to the foundation of Bluegrass music's origins. Returning from playing the festival in years past, Serenade in Blue (SIB) will kick Continued on page 2

AN ASTONISHING ARRAY OF FOUNTAINS AND FEATURES will greet attendees of this year’s Wheat Ridge Garden Tour, Sat., July 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets for the self-guide event are $15, include lunch in a lovely garden setting and can be purchased online at WheatRidgeGardenTour.com or on the day of the event at Pietra’s Pizzeria, 9045 W. 44th Ave. PHOTO: HEATHER LEE.

Star Wars Patio Party, Breakfast for Bike Commuters, June 24 By J. Patrick O’Leary

he Force is strong with Bike to Work Day here in the ‘hood. Wheat Ridge and Edgewater will host breakfast stations, afterwork parties, free snacks and beverages and help from bike techs, Wednesday, June 24. A Star Wars theme will rule on West 38th Avenue that day. The annual Denver Regional Council of Government event is a grassroots effort by cities, counties, transportation planners, community organizations and others in the metro area to educate commuters about the benefits of using two wheels to get to work. Cyclists can pick up free water, refreshments and food on the way into and back from work at hundreds of temporary stations throughout Denver, including three in Edgewater and two in Wheat Ridge. Participants who register online have a chance at winning prizes, as well. Like last year, Edgewater will provide a bike tech and refreshments for bikers riding to work at the parking lot on 25th Avenue and Sheridan Boulevard, from 6 to 9 a.m. It’s the city’s sixth year of hosting a breakfast station, according to Recreation Manager Patrick Martinez. “Stop by to enjoy some snacks and chit chat along your route to work,” said Martinez. “Yawp Cyclery is also sponsoring this station and will have a small repair bike stand as well with tools in case of any bike emergencies on the road or will just be there to fill up your tires.” For more information, visit www. playedgewater.com. Other stations in Edgewater include: • Northern Lights Cannabis Company, northwest corner of 20th and Sheridan, offering breakfast from 6:30 to 9 a.m. It’s Northern Lights’ second year of sponsoring a station. This year, they’ll partner with

The Cooler Bar, 2045 Sheridan Boulevard, for an after party with after-work specials, a "blunt toss" contest and prizes. Look for the party in the parking lot in back of the Cooler Bar. • Resilience Acupuncture and Titanium Fitness and Fitness, 5700 W. 25th Ave., offering breakfast from 6:30 to 9 a.m. Not to be outdone, Wheat Ridge will be the site of two Star Wars-themed Bike to Work Day stations, sponsored by the Mighty Wheat Ridge Active Transportation Advisory Team (ATAT’s) Right Coast Pizza, Dairy Queen, Wheat Ridge Cyclery, Wheat Ridge 2020, City of Wheat Ridge, Town Center North Apartments and Guy Nahmiach (Nostalgic Homes). Ridge at 38: Star Wars & The Breakfast of Champions will take place 6 to 9 a.m. at Dairy Queen, 6790 W. 38th Ave. Stop by for Bacon on a Stick, a bowl of Wheaties cereal, pastries, fruit and coffee, and battle Darth Vader with an iPhone Light Saber and talk shop with Clone Troopers before heading into work. The 2nd Annual Pedal to Patio: Stars Wars, Beer & Pizza bike party takes place at the pizzeria, 7100 W. 38th Ave., 4:30 to 7 p.m. Join the ATAT’s, Clone Troopers and Darth Vader in appropriate cycling gear. Free beer in a collectible pint glass will be served up to the first 50 folks who roll up on two wheels, and everyone can enjoy $2 pizza by the slice and beer specials while enjoying music on patio. Prize drawings take place every 15 minutes. For more information, visit www.WalkBikeRide.net. It’s the third year a breakfast bike station has been staged in Wheat Ridge, and the second for an after-work bike party. To register, visit http://biketoworkday. us. Station maps and listings, information on bicycle safety and commuting, and other details are also available online.

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – ngazette.com

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TIF Limiting Dear Editor, I am not averse to change, but I am very leery of it when my city’s tax dollars are being used to facilitate it, especially when the vocal proponents of the change have been consistent in affirming that the change will be good for me and my city despite my firm opposing opinion. When the majority of the Political Action Committee in favor of the change are out-of-town developers and the very property owners who would directly profit from the change, I become dead-set against that particular change. This was the case with last fall’s Proposition 2B, soundly defeated by Wheat Ridge voters. And it almost went through without a vote at all. If some property owners had not availed themselves of city rules to force a vote, [City] Council could have (and planned to) go ahead with tearing up a portion of 38th Avenue and making permanent the traffic restrictions put in some time ago. Again, I am not averse to change. For example, I am against permanently restricting vehicle traffic on 38th Avenue to make it into a “Main Street.” I am not against creating a Main Street, I am just against shrinking 38th Avenue to do it. And we were all very nearly taken out of the decision process entirely - City Council, prodded and applauded by a minority, were very near to committing tax dollars to that very purpose. The only thing that prevented it was some property owners demanding a vote. That vote spoke for itself but the same group is still at work trying to make Wheat Ridge into … something else. But I am not writing about 2B. I am writing about the City Council’s willingness to spend our tax dollars without the approval of the residents they represent. There is a petition making the rounds in Wheat Ridge that asks for a vote by Wheat Ridge residents to limit the City Council’s ability to grant Tax Increment Financing beyond a certain limit without a vote by the residents of Wheat Ridge. Since the Council has proven itself more than willing to spend public money to encourage development in ways many residents do not like, it is high time to amend the City Charter to limit that ability. If you don’t want Walmart at 38th Ave and Wadsworth without a vote, it is in your best interest to sign the petition and vote to restrict Council’s ability to grant TIFs. If you don’t want City Council to make Wheat Ridge into some version of Denver’s Highlands, it is in your best interest to sign the petition and vote to restrict Council’s

Summer Festival Continued from page 1

off the weekend on Friday night as they fire up the stage at 6 p.m. Featuring many of Denver's finest jazz musicians, SIB is a Denver home-grown 14-piece traditional jazz big band. SIB plays standard Big-Band era dance music of the 1940s as well as toe tappers from the ‘50s through the ‘80s. SIB’s music repertoire includes ballads, waltzes, swing, Latin, Cha-Cha and light rock. SIB also features an outstanding vocalist who sings from a wide selection of classics, including Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Harry Connick, Jr., and Antonio Carlos Jobim. In addition to live local music, the festival promises to offer a variety of traditional parish festival food fare, the classic Italian sausage sandwich, hamburgers, hot dogs, Right Coast Pizza, and much more. The Right Coast Pizza/beer truck will be pouring

ability to grant TIFs. If you, like me, don’t want Council swayed by out-of-town PAC money to make Wheat Ridge into a developer’s dream instead of the cool, funky little suburb that it is, it is in your best interest to sign the petition and vote to restrict Council’s ability to grant TIFs. To read the petition, and connect with like-minded Wheat Ridge residents, go to www.keepwrlocal.com. Forrest Rudin, Wheat Ridge

Wheat Ridge: Let’s Ruin It! Dear Editor, There has been a great deal of negativity going around town lately: “The City Council is not listening.” “The city staff is incompetent.” “They turned 38th Ave. into a parking lot.” “They're giving away our tax money to developers.” On the proposed development at the old Ford dealership, “Just let it sit; something better will come along.” Well, it has been sitting and nothing better has come along. There is even a group that is circulating a petition that will, in effect, stop new development in Wheat Ridge. It will take away our most effective tool to compete for new development. We used Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to compete for the Sprouts development at 38th and Kipling. If that had to go to a vote, we would be waiting for an election before we could give the OK to move forward. The developer would be long gone to another city by then. Does anyone really want that site to be the empty eyesore that it was? By the way, this petition is characterized as preventing a Walmart grocery from coming to Wheat Ridge Corners. What it will do is prevent us from finding a developer for the Cabela's site and most everything else that comes along in the future. It is common knowledge that politics is a blood sport in Wheat Ridge. It is always easy to criticise when you don’t actually have to do anything to make things better. When you hear someone trying to sell the “sky is falling” attitude, ask what they would do to make things better. Listen for practical solutions to problems. Pie in the sky after all is just pie in the sky. Let’s be positive. We have a lot going for us. Tim Fitzgerald Wheat Ridge City Council District III Representative

a veritable Colorado beer festival with kegs from Rickoli, Arvada Beer Company, Coors and Oskar Blues. This summer festival is a great place to bring the kids, as there will be rides, games, and prizes for children. There will be a Fun Flush game where you can “flush” a giant bucket of water on to the participant’s head. There will also be an opportunity shop at the festival, as there will be a collectibles and gift shop named Under the Willow Tree, where you can find all kinds of rare collectibles and other fine items for sale. You don’t need to be Catholic, or a Wheat Ridgian to attend: the parish invitation is open to the entire community of Wheat Ridge, Edgewater and Arvada. “We welcome you and your family to join us at our seventh annual summer festival,” said Father Jason Thuerauf, Pastor of Saints Peter and Paul Parish. “We are excited to be able to host this community event where neighbors can come to enjoy and have fun together as a community.”

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First Session in the Capitol new tax-deferred 529 savings program to disabled Coloradans. Sadly, Senate Republicans killed he first session of the 70th General popular, bipartisan bills that I ran. I led Assembly ended on May 6. While it was an effort to help women earn equal pay my first year in the Capitol and we had a for equal work by sponsoring a bill that divided legislature, I was able to successfully would continue Colorado’s Pay Equity pass many bills that will help House District Commission. I will continue to 24 (north-central Jefferson work to end the pay gap and County) and all of Colorado. ensure women receive equal pay I am proud to have passed for equal work. the CARE Act, which Governor I also sponsored a common John Hickenlooper signed on sense bill to allow Coloradans May 8. This measure ensures to use rain barrels, encouraging that senior citizens are able residential water conservation to have a caregiver with them by allowing folks to collect and through their hospital stay and use the rainwater that falls on during the critical discharge their roofs. I have listened to our instructions when they leave neighbors who strongly back this the hospital. Having caregivers who are better informed will Jessie Danielson idea, and I will bring this bill back next year. reduce the likelihood of a Senate Republicans also killed my patient being readmitted to the hospital. I bipartisan Teen Pregnancy and Dropout also worked on a measure to reduce elder Prevention bill. This bill would expand a abuse, and I will continue to fight for the wildly successful program proven to reduce rights of senior citizens in the coming years unintended pregnancies and would have to make sure they are able to live at home actually saved the state money by reducing and independently. the number of teen mothers seeking public Another priority bill of mine was the assistance. Ideology won out over common Campus Sexual Assault Victim Medical Care sense in the Senate, however, so this bill bill, which has also been signed into law. failed. Our country is experiencing an epidemic of I was also honored to partner with my on-campus assaults. This bill establishes a Republican colleague, Rep. Jon Keyser, to high standard of care for victims of sexual rename a portion of Highway 93 in honor of assault on college campuses across the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. David state. This new law will ensure that sexual Baldwin, a veteran officer who was killed by assault victims receive the most complete a speeding driver. care possible, as soon as possible, while It is an honor to be your representative collecting the evidence prosecutors need to in the Capitol. Please reach out to me with put offenders away. any comments, concerns or questions Other measures that I sponsored and anytime at jessie.danielson.house@state. that have been signed into law include co.us or 303-866-5522. For information on a public safety measure that helps RTD Town Hall Meetings and other community peace officers keep passengers safer; a bill events, visit jessiedanielson.com. that continues the Deaf & Hard of Hearing ContactHouseDistrict24StateRepresenCommission to serve Coloradans who are tative Jessie Danielson at jessie.danielson. deaf, deaf-blind and hard of hearing; and house@state.co.us or 303-866-5522. a bill that allows CollegeInvest to offer an

By Jessie Danielson

Community Tackles Discovery Park Issues By Guy Nahmiach

ith the increased graffiti, drug use and profanity heard, Wheat Ridge families have been spending less time at Discovery Park. A task force was put together, including city staff, elected officials, members of the community, as well as invited neighbors and citizens to participate in the process. A community meeting about Discovery Park was held June 9th at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center. More than 300 invitations were personally delivered (door to door) in the neighborhoods next to the park and the flyer was also posted on social media as well as on the Rec Center’s TV screens. The main issues identified in the task force’s first meeting were 1) How to uphold respect between park users and the park itself; 2) How to improve the park's cleanliness; 3) how to reduce the criminal behavior in the park; and 4) how to improve the safety and perception of safety at the park. The 50 people present were split into three groups. Each table was hosted by 1) Wheat Ridge Police Department, 2) Parks and Recreation staff and 3) neighbors and community members. Spending 20 minutes at each table, issues were shared, ideas were discussed and everyone had an opportunity to be heard. No surprise that some concerns were raised about opinions and points of view. Councilman Tim Fitzgerald was of the

opinion that the issue was being overblown, while Police Chief Dan Brennan had shared data that showed Discovery Park not high on the list of calls by citizens. In fact, when asked, most neighbors admitted to not calling the police when they witnessed illegal or suspicious activities. Councilman Jerry DiTullio shared some views from his students at Wheat Ridge High School. While no one disputed the fact that middle and high school students made up the majority of the crowd at the park, not everyone accepted the opinion that we also had young adults (22-25) causing some of the disturbances. Throughout the 20-minute rotations, very similar ideas and solutions were brought up: Installation of cameras to record the activities, to help identify and prosecute those responsible; increasing the presence of police and code enforcers during times of high usage, specifically asking officers to walk the grounds. Another popular opinion addressed improving the "no smoking" signage and encouraging park users and neighbors to call the police. There were many more ideas, which will all be reviewed and considered by the task force at their next meeting. A survey is also being sent out to all those that attended the meeting. Feedback is crucial and keeping the community informed is of the essence. Stay tuned for more as progress is made. Guy Nahmiach is the Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman and District III Representative.

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ngazette.com – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

2015 Garden Tour Continued from page 1

have many shade-loving perennial ground covers, like coral bells and sweet woodruff, under the canopy of the large maple tree. “We don’t rake in the fall,” said Shupe. Instead the maple leaves act as a natural compost and adds additional organic layers to the mulch. Shupe as a fifth generation Coloradan is no stranger to the diverse and sometimes challenging conditions for gardeners along the Front Range. In the front side yard, they have used a plow from his greatgrandfather’s 1850’s homestead, just outside of Boulder, for added visual interest. In this area where there isn’t shade, they have placed more xeric-like perennials, such as Texas red yucca and California poppies that can take the intense sun and heat typical of Colorado summers. Extreme weather is one of the challenges a gardener faces in Colorado. In the summer of 2009, they had to pretty much start over in their backyard, after a severe storm ravaged Wheat Ridge with high tornado-like winds, hail and rain. “It was a reboot. It was like a virus,” said Shupe comparing it to computers. Going through the gate into the back and side yard, visitors are greeted by a soothing shaded area with a few different varieties of hostas. The backyard has different styles and uses. There are raised garden boxes for vegetables and herbs. In addition, they have a large mass of raspberries plants, which produces an abundant annual crop that they share with others. The first plants were given to them by a neighbor and have a history in their neighborhood that dates back 40 years. In one of the raised beds, there is a metal garden sculpture purchased from an artist in New Mexico, which moves with the wind. It adds a bit of whimsy in the garden. Shupe doesn’t have a favorite area in the yard, but instead sees it as a whole. “It’s nice, relaxing and escapism,” he said.

Live art in the great outdoors

Artist Corbin Hillam will be working live during the day of the tour to create a plantinspired chalk and pastels mural at one of the gardens on the tour. He’s been part of the Denver Chalk Art Festival in Larimer Square for 11 years. “It’s been a fun adventure,” said Hillam of his public art. Hillam is a Colorado artist who works with chalk, pastels and paint both inside and outside. An illustrator for more than 35 years, his work has appeared in more than 200 books, primarily for children’s education. He’s written and illustrated three of his own children’s books. Hilliam said his drawing style can be described as whimsical and that it fits well with children’s stories. “I like to use art as a teaching tool,” he said. To view his work or contact him directly go to www.corbinhillamdesign.com The Wheat Ridge Garden Tour Committee is honoring tour founder Milly Nadler, who is retiring after this year. Co-Chair Vicki Ottoson, on behalf of the committee, volunteers and attendees, wishes to thank Milly for all of her efforts and hard work that have made the tour a success. Thank you Milly. For general information on the tour go to www.WheatRidgeGardenTour.com or contact Vicki Ottoson, 303-777-6144, WheatRidgeGardenTour@outlook.com. Find the Wheat Ridge Garden Tour on Facebook. Be the 200th “Like” and win a $15 Starbucks gift card. For information regarding the Bike Tour contact guides Anne Brinkman, 303-5224926, abrinkman@forethought.net; or Gay Porter DeNileon, gpdenileon@gmail.com.

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HOME, GARDEN & LIFESTYLE Summertime Blues By Jeanne Nichols

’ve fallen in love again with the color blue. Which blue? There aren’t many hues of blue that I don’t love. Not only the color itself, but the names for blues: sea glass, robin’s egg, water’s edge, turquoise and nautical navy to mention a few. The names conjure up images that help us really “see” the color in our mind’s eye. We all enjoy looking at things that are blue, but I think sometimes we forget that the things that make us feel the biggest emotion are in the blue color palette. Who doesn’t enjoy looking up at the beautiful blue skies we have the pleasure of enjoying in Colorado, or looking across a lake or ocean when on vacation? An expanse of blue is calming and helps free the mind. In interior spaces blue can help create a reflective atmosphere or its darker counterpart; deep ocean blue or indigo can evoke deep calm and serenity, which is great in creating a meditative, spiritual environment. If you have a room that is sunny and hot the color blue can help cool it down. Although it doesn’t actually lower the temperature, it can make it feel cooler. This color has also been shown to lower blood pressure, heart rate and decrease appetite. So if you’re a foodie it might be best to keep blue out of your kitchen. Keep in mind that if you use the same color in a north-facing room the cool color can make it feel cold. But according to Feng Shui design principles, blue is a water element and by balancing with wood elements it can warm this cool color. In a study in 2009 by the University of British Columbia, research showed that blue can boost our ability to think creatively, and in rooms with blue ceilings children tested higher on IQ tests. Also, research has shown that one can be more productive in a blue room. So blue can be the perfect choice for a study. For a sophisticated look many neutral tones, such as taupe, mushroom and biscuit, work well with blue. To add cool and calm to a room use with greens and purples, and for a bolder look use oranges and reds. Of

course blue of any hue or tone looks great with white and creates a nice crisp feel. Paint, pillows, accessories and art are inexpensive and easy ways to introduce your favorite color of blue. If you want to experiment with bringing the blues of summer into your home there are many ideas online; do a Google search of blue interiors or go to Pinterest and Houzz. Or you can contact a design professional for some suggestions and ideas. There is a cure for those summertime blues. Wheat Ridge resident Jeanne Nichols is the owner and Lead Designer/Home Stylist at modmood/RETRO Consignment at 44th and Wadsworth. She can be reached at jeanne@modmood.com or 303-728-9497.

FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY Wheat Ridge Sustainability: Why We Try By Jason McCullough

y family and I are Wheat Ridge lifers. We aren’t from here, but we aren’t leaving. We moved from our first Wheat Ridge home just over a year ago. We had spent seven wonderful years right off of 36th and Jay. We moved almost an entire mile west. Same ZIP code, same coffee shop. So when Wheat Ridge Sustainability was formed, I was all in. Wheat Ridge has all of the hallmarks of a solid, sustainable town. It has an incredible amount of open space. It has vibrant politics and citizens who care how public policy, space and future planning is developed and executed. It is a kind, civil, growing city. So I am not going to preach here about all the things we should all be doing every day to create a more sustainable environment for ourselves and our children. I will simply tell you what my family and I do, and why. We plant a garden. Call it urban farming, whatever. My children (two wild boys) will eat anything that comes out of our soil. It is cool you see, they made it. They can taste the hard work, the rain, the care. It is the easiest way I know of to get my children to eat their vegetables. We grow greens, lettuce, carrots, parsnips, potatoes and various other high sun veggies. My children have been part

of the entire set up. They helped build the raised beds, and they mixed soil, planted seeds and starters. They water. We make our own mulch, from tree trimmings. Part of why we moved was trees. We wanted more of them and specifically the shade they bring in the summer. Our former home, while beautiful, had three trees and we planted one of them. Our new home backs up to an open space. We have well over 50 mature trees and while some have had to go due to proximity to the home or disease or because they were unhealthy, invasive species, we have kept the trimmings and paid a nominal fee to a gentlemen living nearby to chip it all into mulch. We do this to save a little money (mulch can be expensive) and to keep the moisture, nutrients and mass of our property on our property. I want to promote a healthy cycle of growth, decomposition and re-growth. We do some of the other obvious things around a house, like lighting with CFLs and watching our watering. And we have plans to compost, and maybe someday look into solar. The point is, we are thinking about it. And we think about it because of where we live. Beautiful, wonderful, Wheat Ridge. Look around, it’s worth it. The Sustainability Committee meets monthly. Please contact Guy Nahmiach, 303- -999-5789, for more information.

ngazette.com – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Introducing the 2015 Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival Music Guide Preview

2015 BLUE STAR TEEN STAGE Teen Stage Showcases Young Music Talent at Carnation Festival By Laura Poole

his year’s Carnation Festival will introduce a teen stage with two very talented teen bands, Paradox and OUR GENERATION. With band members as young as 11 to 15, the two groups have found success already within their

communities and are excited to play at Wheat Ridge’s most famous festival in August. Paradox will be playing on the Blue Star Teen Stage on Friday, Aug. 14 from 6 to 10 p.m. Band members Makenzie, Mason, James and Kaelan range from 13 to 15 in age and have already won numerous awards. They play covers and original rock songs, all while each member holds different tastes in music. OUR GENERATION will be playing on Saturday, Aug. 15 from 6 to 10 p.m. Band members Abbey, Addie, Benji, Jason and Jude are 11 to 15 years old and have been playing for two years, making use of their precious time to create music that fuses old rock with new. This will be the first year the festival will have teen bands in this special format, says Gina Hallisey, Executive Director of the Carnation Festival, and everyone involved is looking forward to it. “We thought it was important for teens to have their own stage,” said Hallisey. “I’m pretty excited about it and I think it’s going to be great for the festival.” “We have numerous new things in the KidsZone also, such as full-size carnival rides and professional midway games, water bubbles, bungee jump, inflatable dragon, bike safety rodeo, magic shows, walk around talent and more.” The Teen Stage will be sponsored by Blue Star Connection and founder John Catt is happy to pair with such a popular event. The organization helps support kids with illnesses through music, providing them with donated used and new instruments. Their goal is to bring them some joy and help them see they are not defined by a disease or the

confines of a hospital room. “We’ve been sole provider of musical instruments of over 40 children’s hospitals in the U.S.,” said Catt. “Almost everyone I’ve come in contact with uses music as therapy… When you see kids going through this in the hospital they’re just trying to get to that next dream. What we do is pretty darn important; I’ve watched it with my own eyes. We’re trying to help them feel stronger just by attitude.” Makenzie Culver, lead singer of Paradox, is Catt’s biggest star, having bounced back from a serious medical concern as a child, she went from not being able to speak to being a strong lead singer for her teen band. “It was really stressful because I didn’t know what was going on,” said Culver. “I had a family friend come who we’d known for a really long time and he came and played the guitar. He came every day and played the guitar. It was really fun and I think music at the time was the best way to tell people how I was feeling. It made me feel better physically and mentally; everything balanced. Music spoke to me during that period.” Catt’s mission is to bring this feeling to as many kids as he can by giving them instruments, and showing them they can identify with something other than the reason they’re in the hospital. He watched Culver grow from a recovering kid to a talented young woman who stands for inspiration, confidence and positive attitude above all odds. Hallisey said Catt “always has teens bands at his events [and] he ended up sponsoring the bands” for the Carnation Festival. “When we had the chance to play at Carnation I just jumped on it. I think it’s going to be a nice feature for the stage,” said Catt. Both bands play shows all over Colorado and have for years, and their sound astonishes audiences.

Stay tuned for more additions to the Blue Star Teen Stage! The excitement is growing in the teen band community and the festival is looking at possibly expanding the program to start earlier on Saturday to include more bands and more entertainment. The Teen Stage will be nonstop with entertainment! Mysto the Magi is the magician who will perform each night during the band set changes and just confirmed is 10 year old Emma Marie, a Daisy Rock Endorsed Guitarist. Stay tuned for details!

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OUR GENERATION’s five members go to different schools, so the families have always had their work cut out for them for scheduling band practices. And yet they always manage to hold two to three practice sessions a week as well as individual music lessons in preparation for their shows. Kevin Shaw, father of lead singer Abbey, 13, and guitarist Jude, 11, said that they have been through a lot in the last two years but that the kids were always driven to move forward and keep playing. “They formed a relationship and dynamics and they got thrown into one band together,” said Shaw. “They got to the point where they needed more coaching. They made the decision that this is the top priority for them, [we’re] feeling through the path and how to make it happen. It’s fairly easy to get them a gig; they’re kids and pretty good and it makes for a good time.” Each parent in the group has some of background that helps keep the kids going, like music or marketing, and with the help of Catt and Blue Star Connections they have played all over and strengthened their skills together. Now, said Shaw, they get calls to come perform and don’t have to promote themselves as much because their reputation is so strong. “They’re not on stage because they’re young, they’re on stage because they’re good,” said Catt. “They’re really fun to watch.” Being invited to the Carnation festival is a big step for both bands. A long-standing community event that draws a huge crowd each year is a great venue for any band, and these teens are looking forward to the opportunity. The main stage sponsorship from local business Quality Auto substantially increased the talent budget allowing the festival to not only provide great bands for the main stage but to utilize some funds to create the professional stage set up for the Blue Star teen stage. Bringing a youthful energy to the stage from talented teens should be a great draw for other teens and kids. In addition to Paradox and OUR GENERATION there will be other performances, such as a 10-year-old singer that Catt is equally proud of and a magician to wow the crowd between sets.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – ngazette.com

EDGEWATER CITY NEWS Host a Block Party and Connect With Your Neighbors through Edgewater Collective.

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ne of the best traditions in Edgewater is the summer block party. Some of the parties are even named for their street, like “Eatin’ on Eaton.” Summer block parties are a great way to meet and build relationships with neighbors. This year Joyride Brewing Company and Edgewater Collective are collaborating to encourage and resource block parties in Edgewater. Each year the City of Edgewater encourages block parties by waiving the application fee for the Special Event Permit, as well as paying for a portion, if not all, liability insurance for events requiring it. The City of Edgewater will also provide barricades to shut down the street if requested. This year Joyride Brewing Company has agreed to donate a keg of beer to block parties in Edgewater. Edgewater Collective will also set up a table with information about local schools and other community resources. To organize a block party, visit the City of Edgewater website (edgewaterco.com). Contact Grant Babb (grant@joyridebrewing. com or 303-941-8526) at Joyride Brewing Company for more information about the keg donation and community resources

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managers and other housing providers are willing to step up to the plate to help house a veteran. s we approach the Fourth of July There are resources available for willing holiday, I wanted to address an issue landlords, and a newly formed coalition of which I consider to be a huge chink in our stakeholders designed to address armor. Today across the streets landlords concerns, and issues. of the Denver metro area Family owned since 1942 The guaranteed rent payment there is literally a battalion of offered by the VASH voucher approximately 600 veterans All Natural Beef, Pork and a renewed effort to address who are currently homeless. & Poultry landlord concerns represent In my opinion, this is some of the most tangible aspects The good news Fresh eggs, milk &unacceptable. more of the program. However, some is that there are resources of the most important aspects of and programs which have 5650 W. 29th Ave. this program are the intangibles been shown to be effective 303-233-0757 in eliminating homelessness such as the respect afforded to a veteran by allowing him or her to wheatridgepoultry.com among veterans. These Zach Urban attain housing. programs start by addressing If you are a landlord, a with purchase $29.99 theirof housing needs first and combining this or more. Exp 3-31-15. property manager, or another housing housing with other services as needed. provider and you would like to learn Once a veteran seeks help in attaining more about this program, you can contact housing, they are no longer homeless, but Landlord Recruitment Specialist Nick rather they are now on the path towards Kratzer at 303-685-4230, at nonprofit becoming a homeready veteran. The bad Colorado Housing Connects,. news is the housing market is so tight, The Denver metro area is a participating many if not all of these veterans already community in the national campaign to end have a HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive homelessness among veterans by the year Housing (VASH) Voucher in hand. With 2016. The name of this movement is ZERO: the voucher, these veterans stand ready 2016. The primary goal of ZERO: 2016 to find an available unit, but increasingly is to do whatever it takes to end veteran fewer landlords are currently willing to take homelessness by the end of 2015 and end the reduced rent amount offered under the chronic homelessness among veterans one voucher program. year later. The really good news is over 257 To help address this issue of homeless veterans in the Denver metro area have veterans in Jefferson County, the Veterans already attained housing so far this year. Administration and HUD have granted Abraham Lincoln once said, “Honor to the the Jefferson County Housing Authority Checkout Our Weekend soldier and sailor everywhere, who bravely more than 50 housing vouchers to be bears his country's cause. Honor, also, to the Steak Specials distributed to veterans seeking housing citizen who cares for his brother in the field within Jefferson County. These veterans Every Friday - Sunday and serves, as he best can, the same cause.” will remain homeless, and this significant Family owned since 1942 Zachary Urban can be reached at 720federal assistance will go untapped, unless 252-5930 or www.zacharyurban.com. All Natural Beef, more Jefferson County landlords, property Pork & Poultry

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ngazette.com – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

NEWS FROM EDGEWATER

EDGEWATER CITY COUNCIL

To Goat or Not to Goat

Easing: Not Just for Sewing Anymore

are not pets; they are livestock, or farm animals. Do pets impact neighbors differently than farm animals? Council and use – lot size – my rights – your often hears complaints about noise and rights – sustainability – local economy – odors from dogs, goats and people. And yet emotions – public health – why did I move I’ve had no complaints about pigs, chickens here – the good old days vs. today? or rabbits, all of which can be found in So many questions with no black or Edgewater. white answers. Welcome to the world of What about sustainability? Is an law-making. animal part of a sustainability model So where does Council start? Generally because it has the potential to produce a we look to neighboring cities to see how commodity, or because it is actually being they’ve addressed similar used to produce such things as issues. Next we evaluate what eggs, milk, cheese, meat, fur Edgewater has in common or fertilizer? A close cousin to with those cities to see if the Urban Farming is the Cottage same approach might work. Industry. Coincidentally, Demographics, land character, Council just put Cottage local resources and public Businesses on a future agenda. opinion all come into play. Should home-based products Council’s May 28 agenda such as fruits and vegetables, included Item 17(b), Animal home-baked goods, and animal Code Ordinance. Council’s products be regulated like discussion of farm animals, other Home Occupations? The including critters like cows and Bonnie McNulty impacts of processing these horses quickly turned to goats. products, including slaughtering, must be After listening to all who spoke, one considered. would walk away either wanting to buy Originally Edgewater was a small farm goats to make the world a better place; community. Today we have 7,778.6 people or rush out to fortify one’s home against per square mile, our lots are small and our the odor and noise reportedly associated land is prized for its proximity to downtown with goats. Emotions were high, so much Denver. The closer we live to one another so that several citizens came to Council’s the more we impact each other’s lives. June 4 meeting to talk about goats. It is Sustainability is a trendy word, but a goal always nice to see people get involved, but we should also apply to our relationships it is difficult to watch an issue pit neighbor with neighbors. against neighbor and bring both sides to Don’t forget my coffees: Wednesdays tears. from 9 to 11 a.m. at Target’s Starbucks, or The topic was an “Animal Code Thursdays before Council meetings at 6:15 Ordinance,” but the issues were nuisances p.m. in City Hall. Please let me know if you and sustainability. We legislate nuisances; like to arrange a different time. should we legislate sustainability? Contact Edgewater Mayor Bonnie McI guess one question is, what is a pet? Nulty at 303-233-6216. Animals used to produce commodities

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Council debated its issues with each other, and was diligent in considering citizen viewpoints, whether shouted, whispered, n sewing, fitting differently shaped/ expressed with hostility, civility, awkwardly sized pieces together without wrinkles or eloquently. We sought compromise where is called easing. When crafting legislation, we could, while maintaining meaningful Edgewater City Council must ease together legislation. existing law, citizens’ disparate needs, Another controversial issue on the current health/safety knowledge, and horizon is council’s review of codes in creative budgeting. Our tools include city light of current Urban Farming staff’s expertise, professional trends. We’ll be considering consultation, recommendations positive/negative impacts on from boards and commissions, our community of keeping the Edgewater Comprehensive livestock, such as chickens and Plan, Community Survey results, goats. We value hearing your insight from fellow councilors, thoughts on this and any topic and our own eyes/ears out in the of your choosing, controversial community. or not. The general public trusts Come to Council meetings, council to make decisions email, call, write, or join us for regarding their safety and coffee: Wednesday Mayor’s quality of life, so they don’t have to consider infrastructural Janet Spangenberg Coffee at Target’s Starbucks; Friday Rec Center Community maintenance processes, bulk Coffee (both 9 to 11 a.m), and at City Hall planes, traffic engineering, etc. Existing laws before the regular Council Meetings (6:15 may not meet today’s needs, and we must p.m.). http://edgewaterco.govoffice3.com add, remove, or modify them. This improves provides contact/meeting information. the quality of life for some, but may cause Or visit City Hall, 24th & Sheridan, for concern for others, creating controversy. information; find Edgewater postings in the “Easing” controversial pieces together courtyard outside, or out front of the Rec becomes more challenging. One such Center. Hope to hear from y’all! example is our Rental Unit Maintenance Contact Edgewater Councilwoman Code. After years of study and citizen input, Janet Spangeberg at 303-954-8649 or jsthis was just passed on First Reading.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – ngazette.com

SCHOOL CROSSING The Loss of Our Summer Vacation than rested, and ready to go back into the classroom. Those were summer vacations. For the last few years, we've been he last day of school always ended sending our students back to school in the with us getting in the back of our ninemiddle of August, and sometimes even seat station wagon, the seats laid out flat, earlier. Wheat Ridge High is sleeping bags spread out and having freshmen orientation bags filled with Bubble Yum Aug. 4, 5 and 6 this year. Some and Pop Rocks, comic books districts have eliminated summer and a jug of Tang. vacation altogether and have Up front my mom had the gone to a year-round schedule. cooler with sandwiches and the I do appreciate the financial obligatory Thermos with hot benefits and am aware of the coffee for my dad. drop-off in retention after lengthy With no seatbelts or airbags, breaks. However, I am also very the wood-paneled monster aware of the increased demands roared out of the driveway and on our students and amount of headed toward the border south Guy Nahmiach pressure put on them throughout of us. Destination: Wildwood the year. There is more testing New Jersey, a nine-hour drive combined with a politically charged school from Montreal. environment. The trip was void of electronics. We I'm concerned about their need to just spent the night playing license-plate bingo, get outside and build memories with their alphabet geography, sleeping and listening own families and friends, the importance to radio stations my dad would pick. All of experiencing events firsthand instead of bathroom stops, of course, needed to be Googling about it, and the ability to recall coordinated with gas fill-ups. By morning places from smells and sounds. Summer we would be at our destination, as would vacations are all about growing up and two other families that would make a similar developing lifelong relationships, face to trip to spend the next three weeks with us. face. This was the start of our summer As a member of the Jeffco School vacation every year. We never complained Calendar Committee, I am proud to have about where we went. After all, it was three contributed to the recommendation of weeks on the beach with the boardwalk and starting school later (Aug. 22) and hopefully ice cream. It wasn't so much where we went, a trend that takes us back to a Labor Day as whom we were with. Sometimes life just starting date. didn't get better than that. It is amazing to hear the reasons for Summer vacation was once a wellstarting so early: Athletic tryouts are defined time of the year when families number one, with parent work schedules celebrated a break from the fast-paced work and lack of childcare also high on the list. and school schedule. Besides the annual But then I'm also hearing about summer road trip, most of us also went to summer schools where students are enrolled to make camps for weeks at a time. By the time Labor sure they retain the curriculum and start off Day weekend came around, we were more

By Guy Nahmiach

JUNE 26TH, 27TH & 28TH SPONSORED BY CLANCY’S IRISH PUB

Ask the Super Questions For Jeﬀco Education Superintendent Dan McMinimee

Question: Your first academic year is just about done. Tell me about two things you are most proud of that you've helped accomplish, and one "do over" you wish you had. Answer: The first thing that I am most proud of is that my team was able to keep their focus on student achievement and implement the plans in the Jefferson and Alameda areas. Through the collaboration with principals and the community, both plans were received as a positive and necessary move to continue growth and achievement for all students, as well as mitigate capacity issues at some of our most-impacted elementary schools. The second thing I am most proud of is the implementation of Student Based Budgeting. Although it had been discussed as a model for years, we finally pushed through the decision and implemented the model in all of our schools. We believe that this method of budgeting in our schools will allow the principal and immediate community a greater level of autonomy to address specific issues. This model has allowed our principals to address class-size issues, purchase more resources, and focus on specific programming needs. It was well received by many of our principals as they see the value of controlling their own destiny to a greater extent. If I had one "do over,” I would like to do a better job of responding in a timely manner to concerns or questions from the community and parents. I realize that some people just like the conflict, but others, given a reasonable response, would be satisfied. I think that this is an area of focus and growth for my team moving in to my second year. Thank you, Dan McMinimee Superintendent, Jeffco Public Schools Questions are submitted by the community. If you have a question for Superintendent McMinimee, please submit it to guy@NostalgicHomes.com or call it in to 303-999-5789.

strong in the new year. I previously wrote about Pennington wanting to stay open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. I get it. Many schools are open during the summer to provide free meals for families that need the help, and more than 1 million children in Colorado depend on free and reduced meals. Poverty levels are slowly rising in our neighborhoods while home values are skyrocketing. I won't pass judgment on any student except for my own. My kids need time away from all screens: Computers, iPads, etc. My kids need to sweat and play in the dirt. They need to learn how make a fire. They need to fall asleep from being physically tired, not mentally from constant testing. They need to be woken up by birds, not their iPhone buzzing with an incoming text. No doubt my kids will complain when they read this, but at least it will be in person and not in an email.

I'm excited to sponsor the Prospect Valley 5K again this fall. This event has grown in runners and sponsors, and helped in not only raising funds for classrooms but has also increased awareness for our wonderful Greenbelt. If you are interested in being a sponsor, please call Cara at 720-331-2308. Everitt Middle is also proud to be a sponsor for the race. This growing relationship is resulting in more PV families choosing Everitt as their school of choice for their graduating sixth grader. Did you know that principals Gomez (Everitt) and Collins (PV) used to commute together up to Greeley to complete their degrees? If you'd like to share your summer plans with us in pictures or in writing, we'll include it in our next issue. As always, thanks for reading. Contact Guy Nahmiach at 303-9995789 or guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

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

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ngazette.com – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

LOCAL BUSINESS NEWS

CUTTING THE RIBBON AT MIGHT JOE’S KITCHEN June 6 were Wheat Ridge Mayor Joyce Jay and City Councilors Tracy Langworthy, Bud Starker and Tim Fitzgerald. Cynthia and Ben Sarmiento are the owners of Wheat Ridge’s new Italian fast casual eatery, at 10150 W. 50th Ave., #5. Pictured, left to right: David Boepple, Kathleen Dodaro, Cynthia Sarmiento, JoAnn Cherrington, Benjamin Sarmiento Jr., Emiliano Joseph Sarmiento, Joyce Jay, Tim Fitzgerald, Bud Starker, Patty Stillwell, Tracy Langworthy. Back row: Joyce Butterfield and Cindy Brown. PHOTO: CHERYL BRUNGARDT.

Sprouts Farmers Market to Open in Wheat Ridge June 24 Sprouts Farmers Market will open its new Wheat Ridge store with a grand opening event on June 24. Located at 3725 Kipling St., it will be the 17th Sprouts store in the Denver area. The ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the new 27,000-square-foot store begins at 7 a.m., with a public tour of the store and shopping. Special events and giveaways that day include: • Muffin and coffee samples for everyone in line before the doors open. • 20 percent off initial total purchase for the first 200 shoppers in line. • A Sprouts coupon book for every 15th shopper through checkout. • One dollar deals throughout the store. • One free reusable bag with purchase. Promotions continue through the weekend. On Saturday, June 27, the first 200 customers to make a purchase will receive a coupon booklet for five free sandwiches. On Sunday, June 28, upon checkout, every 15th customer will receive a $5 coupon for a purchase of more than $15 the following week.

Baby+Company Opens New Birth Center Near Lutheran Baby+Company hosted an open house the afternoon of May 30 to provide the public with an opportunity to tour the 7777 W. 38th Ave. facility and meet Baby+Company midwives. The new boutique birth center in Wheat Ridge is a collaboration with Lutheran Medical Center and Westside Women’s Care. The center is located within blocks of Lutheran, and a short distance from the Highlands, and serves Denver, Wheat Ridge, Littleton, Boulder and the

BABY+COMPANY PRACTICE MANAGER JOANNA BROWN Nand Wheat Ridge Mayor Pro Tem Bud Starker were on hand for Baby+Company’s new birth center open house at 7777 W. 38th Ave., near LutheranExempla, May 30. PHOTO: JENN MASON/MONET MOUTRIE.

surrounding areas. An alternative to a hospital-based birth, Baby+Company is a new option for maternity care, bringing together the best elements of a highly personalized birth center experience along with the benefits of working in collaboration with a leading local medical center that has a long history of excellence in women's services, according to a company press release. Certified Nurse Midwives will provide education-intensive, relationship-based care in a comfortable environment, while Lutheran will help to ensure that additional services are available during pregnancy or delivery. Physicians from Westside Women’s Care are serving as consultants and are available for clinical consultation and back-up support.

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Ribbon Cutting for New Hair Cutting Shop July 11 Felicia & Monica's Hairstop will host a ribbon cutting Saturday, July 11, at 2 p.m. The new Wheat Ridge barbershop is located at 12390 W. 44th Ave. (44th and Ward). Although open since March, owners Felicia Gallegos and Monica Lopez want people to see what their shop is all about. “We decided to make Wheat Ridge the place to open our barbershop because of the kind and loving community,” said Gallegos. “They show tons of support for the little mom and pop shops. We had the privilege of working in the area for several years prior, and are so excited to make Wheat Ridge our permanent home!” Ribbon cuttings are coordinated by Wheat Ridge Business Association and the City of Wheat Ridge. Wheat Ridge businesses interested in hosting a ribbon cutting at their business should email cheryl@thankem.com at least 30 days prior to desired event date.

Clancy’s Irish Pub Reopens After Year-Long Hiatus Clancy’s Irish Pub and Restaurant celebrated the opening of its new, expanded location at 7000 W. 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge, with a May 28 ribbon-cutting ceremony filled with free appetizers, bagpipers and door prizes. Wheat Ridge Mayor Joyce Jay and members of City Council did the honors during the Thursday evening fete. Established in 1973, Clancy’s Irish Pub is Wheat Ridge’s oldest pub. The bar and restaurant was formerly located at 38th Avenue and Kipling Boulevard, but opened in the new, 6,000-square-foot location in May after a year-long hiatus. Now housed at the Ridge at 38, Clancy’s features two dining areas and a large, covered patio. The venue is open from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily.

Applewood Barbershop Changes Ownership Veteran barber Phil Myers, a neighborhood favorite operating at 1901 Youngfield, is moving on to greener pastures…sort of. Myers passed ownership June 1st of Applewood Barbershop to one of his fellow barbers Gerald Gonzales. Myers will stay on, cutting hair as he has done for last 53 years “Nothing will be changing,” states Gonzales, “Phil has been cutting hair forever, so who knows how to run a barbershop better than him.” Gonzales started cutting hair in his late teens, but a sudden life change steered him towards iron work for the next 20 years. In 2009, he took some private lessons from Myers, got his license and eventually rejoined him in business. Resident stylists Bernie Cruz and Don Doran will stay on with Gonzales. Both are longtime local residents. Applewood Barbershop is located at 1901 Youngfield, 303-232-1800. Hours are Mon-Fri 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sat., 8 a.m.to 2 p.m.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – ngazette.com

WHEAT RIDGE 2020 UPDATE

GUEST EDITORIAL

Make a Life Here, Live Local

Association Urges Voters Not To Tie Hands Of City

will be at Fido’s Grub-N-Tub, 5883 W. 38th Ave., with a local food truck, Roaming Bull Brasserie Food Truck and Gelato Bike. ive Local Wheat Ridge is creating space Live Local Active emphasizes bringing for people to interact with one another people together for active living. This and get to know local businesses. Residents summer join us for family-friendly Yoga want to know what other locals know and in the Park led by Santosha Yoga in the where to hang out and meet others. Green on Ridge at 38, 7101 W. 38th Ave., “Personally, I found Wheat Ridge after on July 18 and Aug. 8, from 9:30 to 10:30 looking for a home to buy in northwest a.m. The bicycle Cruiser Denver,” said Tara Jahn, resident Crawls also start on the Green and Wheat Ridge 2020 board out in front of Wheat Ridge member. “I couldn’t afford the Cyclery with costume themes homes there, crossed Sheridan (optional) and an announced and found a community ready and route to enjoy specials at local on the brink of good things, where restaurants. Summer Cruiser I could see myself living a long Crawls will be on June 18, July time and starting a family.” 16 and Aug. 20, from 6 p.m. While not everyone gets excited until dark. reading the city’s comprehensive Our Live Local model plan before purchasing a home, is about coming alongside many relate to Tara’s story of Tara Jahn passionate people and Wheat discovering Wheat Ridge. It is Ridge strengths, thus Live Local Harvest that sense of discovery and connection that brings together folks passionate about local led to the creation of the Live Local Wheat growing and food production in Wheat Ridge program through Wheat Ridge 2020, Ridge. If you think you have the next great a community nonprofit. The idea was that idea to live locally, contact Wheat Ridge people not only felt comfortable to sleep in 2020 and get involved. Wheat Ridge, but also to connect, explore, “After moving here, it was easy to shop and dine here. become an active community member. Over some beverages at an establishment I started with the Wheat Ridge 2020 along 44th Avenue, the concept was born. In Planning and Development Academy in 2011, Live Local Dines was started to support 2009, then joined the Wheat Ridge 2020 local food businesses and build community board and helped start Live Local Wheat around sharing food together. There have Ridge,” recounts Jahn. “It is great to have been over 40 Live Local Dines events with a community with routes to have a voice, plenty of laughter, some interesting trivia, leadership and impact.” and lots of delicious food and beverages. On Tara Jahn works at Colorado EducaThursday, July 9, we will be at Clancy’s Irish tion Initiative. She lives with her wife along Pub, 7000 W. 38th Ave., from 5 to 7 p.m. Ridge at 38. On Thursday, Aug. 13, also 5 to 7 p.m., we

By Britta Fisher

From The Wheat Ridge Business Association

he Wheat Ridge Business Association is an all-inclusive organization which has as its heart the promotion of businesses which are in and around the Wheat Ridge area. It seeks to strengthen the Wheat Ridge business base, which benefits not only its members, but all citizens by making Wheat Ridge a favorable place to do business. Many businesses generate sales tax and it is sales tax which funds so many of our city functions. A little-known fact is that when a homeowner pays real property tax, only a tiny fraction of that ever makes its way back to the city. In other words, it is live-or-die based upon sales tax revenue. One of the realities of attracting new businesses to the City of Wheat Ridge it that Wheat Ridge must compete with very aggressive, and well-funded competitors such as the cities of Arvada and Lakewood. One need only drive a short distance north or south to go to Arvada's Olde Towne or Belmar to see the positive effects of special incentives in attracting redevelopment. “Redevelopment” is the key given the fact that Wheat Ridge is a first-tier suburb with essentially no green space left to develop. Therefore, Wheat Ridge must look inward for redevelopment opportunities, such as the one located on the corner of 38th Avenue and Kipling Street. The Association views that redevelopment as a great boost to the community in terms of making it a more attractive place to live, which also lifts

property values. The Wheat Ridge Business Association takes no position with regards to developing the 38th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard site as a Walmart. What concerns the Association is the method being used by a particular citizen group in opposing the Walmart. That group seeks an initiative for the November ballot to change to the City Charter. That change would significantly hamper the City's ability to attract redevelopment. The proposed charter amendment would require any tax incremental financing vehicle in excess of $2.5 million dollars to be approved by the citizens of Wheat Ridge. While this might initially sound like democracy in its purest form, immediately adjacent communities face no such limitations. TIF benefits are not a cost to the taxpayer. A portion of the sales tax collected by the merchant is used to repay debt incurred for certain infrastructure improvements, such as new lanes, curbing, sidewalks and traffic signals. $2.5 million dollars does not go as far as it used to. For the above set forth reasons, the Association urges voters not to tie the hands of the City in its efforts to attract economic redevelopment. There are less detrimental ways to oppose Walmart. The Association views a TIF restriction method as akin to removing one’s arm to treat a rash. There are more effective, and less self-destructive, methods to accomplish that end.

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ngazette.com – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

Shall the Wheat Ridge City Charter be amended as follows? • Any action by an agency, agent, authority, commission, committee, city council, department, employee, or official of the City of Wheat Ridge, approving or changing a sales or property tax increment financing (TIF), revenue sharing, or cost sharing arrangement pursuant to Part 1 of the Colorado Urban Renewal Law, must be ratified by the Wheat Ridge City Council via a vote on a formal agenda item, at a regularly scheduled business meeting, that is advertised as a public hearing. • If the value of the said sales or property tax increment financing (TIF), revenue sharing, or cost sharing exceeds $2.5 million, the City Council action of approval must be ratified by the registered electors of the City of Wheat Ridge at a special or regular election. • The base amount for voter approval of any sales or property tax increment financing (TIF) will be any financing exceeding $2.5 million. To account for inflation and/or increased construction costs, every third year after March 1, 2015 the base amount will be increased by 5%. • Effective Date: This amendment will take effect and apply to all actions undertaken by an agency, agent, authority, commission, committee, city council, department, employee, or official of the City of Wheat Ridge subsequent to March 1, 2015 and thereafter.

WHEAT RIDGE MAYOR

WHEAT RIDGE CITY COUNCIL

TIF Petition Too Extreme: Keep Wheat Ridge Open for Business

Let the TIF Amendement Debate Begin!

The TIF petition will kill any meaningful redevelopment opportunities in Wheat Ridge in the future. Developers will simply he “Keep Wheat Ridge Local” tax bypass Wheat Ridge and take their projects increment financing (TIF) petition is not to our neighbors such as Arvada, Lakewood needed and is too extreme for Wheat Ridge. and Denver where TIF is fully available for Wheat Ridge has a history of using TIF in successful projects. strategic and appropriate ways to attract In Wheat Ridge, TIF was first used quality development to the city. The city uses in the 1980s for the development of the TIF as one of many tools to let businesses Safeway shopping center at know that Wheat Ridge is 38th and Wadsworth. More “Open for Business.” The recently the city has used consequences for restricting the tool for enhancements to TIF are far more detrimental Colorado’s premier bicycle than the proponents of the TIF shop, Wheat Ridge Cyclery; petition are leading citizens to for the construction of 26 new believe. TIF is not broken in townhomes at 38th and Depew; Wheat Ridge. and for the new Sprouts Farmers TIF is a powerful tool Market shopping center at 38th available to cities that can and Kipling. Without TIF, none often be complicated and is of these projects would have occasionally misunderstood. moved forward. When used properly, however, Joyce Jay Our city has used TIF TIF can revitalize a community. successfully and appropriately and its If you care about your city and dislike its continued use is critical to our future for run-down areas, know that your government redevelopment – such as in the Cabela’s site has a tool at its disposal to help fight urban at I-70/58th and the vacant auto dealership decay – a tool that’s proven to be successful at 38th and Wadsworth, amongst many right here in our own backyard. Do not let a others. Those alone would generate income politically charged agenda destroy the city’s needed to insure ongoing city services and future. even expand the kind of public amenities The Colorado TIF law contains a list that create a true city of choice. of very specific purposes for which TIF Restricting TIF will hurt ALL potential funds may be used, and contrary to some future development needed for core stability. accusations, “kickbacks to developers” is not I urge you not to sign the petition and vote one of them! Permissible uses for TIF funds NO if it makes it to the ballot in November. include, among others, public infrastructure Contact Wheat Ridge Mayor Joyce Jay improvements such as roads, utilities, at jjay@ci.wheatridge.co.us or 303-235drainage improvements and the removal of 2800. contaminated and deteriorated buildings.

city for the proposed project at 38th and Wadsworth has created a similar situation in Wheat Ridge as in Littleton – a lack of trust rban Renewal Authorities (URAs) have of city government. Hence, the petition/ their place for development and/or ballot question to amend the City Charter redevelopment of truly blighted properties by the Keep WR Local community group. and I support the concepts and goals of an This Charter Amendment, if approved by URA. The City of Wheat Ridge has an URA the voters in November, is retroactive to called Renewal Wheat Ridge. March 1, 2015 and would affect the 38th and In Colorado, many URAs are creating Wadsworth project. unhealthy competition between The petition/ballot wording cities for retail developments. has to be legislative, not Developers are seeking out the administrative. It can’t address “highest bidder” for taxpayer one site per legal counsel, money. URA boards are staffed especially in the City Charter. by unelected bureaucrats. URA The Keep WR Local Group boards in Colorado are not worked smart to craft the correct elected (unless their City Council verbiage. acts as the URA board as well) If this Charter Amendment and most of their decisions are passes, the voters will have a not reviewed or ratified by the say on how TIF ($2.5 million local city councils. or greater) is awarded by the Jerry DiTullio I completely agree that Tax City/URA to development/ Increment Financing (TIF) can be redevelopment projects. a useful redevelopment tool. For example, Is this really a bad thing? A check and I voted for the TIF at 38th and Kipling St. balance by the taxpayers? (Sprouts, Starbucks, senior housing, etc.) Above is the petition/ballot wording and have supported most others in the past that was submitted to the Wheat Ridge City such as the TIF for Wheat Ridge Cyclery. Clerk’s Office for the November 2015 ballot The voters in Littleton just recently - let the public debate begin! passed a Charter Amendment which states To sign the petition for the ballot that all TIFs approved by city council question to be placed on the November 2015 must also be approved by the voters. The ballot, please contact The Keep WR Local development community spent big bucks Team, info@keepwrlocal.com or 720-235attempting to defeat the Littleton ballot 8113. measure, but it still passed by 60 percent. Have a great summer! Unfortunately, a lack of vision, a lack Contact Wheat Ridge District 1 Counof compromise, greed and a lack of fiscal cilman Jerry DiTullio at 303-231-1392 or responsibility by the proposed developer jeditullio@ci.wheatridge.co.us. (requesting $7.8 million in TIF) and the

By Joyce Jay

By Jerry DiTullio

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – ngazette.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING Local Artists Selected For Wheat Ridge Studio Tour The Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission has selected 11 local artists to display their workspaces during the Wheat Ridge Artist Studio Tour, set for Saturday, Aug. 1. The tour will provide an opportunity for the public to view professional artists in their realm – a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to create fine art. The artists’ studios range from backyard barns to converted sunrooms to a professional co-op where multiple artists share a common room where creative energy can be shared while working in their own studios. The artists are: • Laurie Anderson, who creates art from abandoned musical instruments, • Mixed-media sculptor Lisa Bonilla Panter, • Photographer Blu Hartkopp, • Fabric artist Karin Soderholm, • Jim Stevens, multi-media artist who specializes in scrimshaw, • Blake Wilkinson, who works on multimedia pieces featuring copper leaf and

textures, • Painters Kim Adamache, Juanita Gutierrez, Sina March, Ed Slack, and Sherry Veltkamp. "We are always amazed at the amount of talent there is right here in Wheat Ridge, and we are pleased with the number of applicants we received for this first-time event," said commission chair Diane Robb. The self-guided tour will begin at 9 a.m. on Aug. 1, with the studios closing at 2 p.m. Maps to tour locations will be available for $5 at the Teller Street Gallery, 7190 W. 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge, the day of the tour. The Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission, with nine members appointed by the City Council, was created to promote cultural arts in Wheat Ridge and foster cultural enrichment and education opportunities for the community.

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TLC Wheat Ridge Clean Up Days Begin June 20 The City of Wheat Ridge and Wheat Ridge 2020 are partnering with residents to help clean up neighborhoods. This summer’s Clean Up Days have been scheduled, with dumpsters being dropped in specified areas to be available for resident use until full or until 2 p.m., whichever comes first. The first is Saturday, June 20 in East Wheat Ridge, in the area approximately between West 26th and 35th avenues and Harlan to Sheridan. The next will be Saturday, July 25 in the Clearvale neighborhood, from Brentwood Street west to Garrison Street and West 44th Avenue north to the I-70 Frontage Road. The final clean up day will be Saturday, Aug. 8 in the Clear Creek Station neighborhood, from Harlan Street west to Pierce Street, and West 44th Avenue north to West 48th.

Volunteers Needed for Wheat Ridge Garden Tour As the Neighborhood Gazette goes to press, 10 additional volunteers are needed to help monitor tickets at the participating gardens of the Wheat Ridge Garden Tour, July 11. To help make the tour a success, 60 volunteers are needed, including garden hosts, artists, committee members and ticket monitors. Ten more volunteers will enable the tour to add a third 2.5-hour shift: 7:45 to 10:15 a.m., 9:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and 11:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. (Times include check-in.) Volunteers receive free tickets to attend the tour in a shift they aren’t working, or can attend the After Tour with the garden hosts and committee. The Lunch Stop is included. Proceeds from this year’s tour benefit the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation and Collier’s Hospice. See you at the tour! To sign-up or for more information, contact Mariann Storck 303-725-5812 or mstorck@gmail.com by Saturday, June 20.

Candidate Education Night in Wheat Ridge, June 25 Are you thinking about running for a city office? Join Wheat Ridge 2020, Wheat Ridge Business Association, and Wheat Ridge Business District for Candidate Education Night, Thursday June 25, from 6 to 8 p.m. Learn more about these organizations and what they are doing in community and economic development in Wheat Ridge, and hear local resident and former Jefferson County Clerk and Recorder Pam Anderson discuss tips on running for office. Refreshments will be provided. Continued on page 15

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Connections Wheat Ridge and Edgewater. Seniors sign up and receive a free water bottle and Passport card information on suggested activities. At the end of the summer (Sept. 3), participants are invited to an afternoon Summer Passport to Health Finale Dance Party, featuring music from the ‘40s, ‘50s, and ‘60s at the Richard Hart Estate, 28th Avenue and Ames Street. Seniors can register and pick up their water bottle and card at the Wheat Ridge Municipal Building, 7500 W. 29th Ave.; Seniors Resource Center, 3227 Chase St.; Edgewater Municipal Building, 5901 W. 25th Ave.; or any local Colorado Senior Connection community office. The program is sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge and City of Edgewater.

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If you want to showcase your garden on this year’s Wheat Ridge Garden Tour, scheduled for Saturday, July 11, contact Milly Nadler at 303-319-0690 or wheatridgegardentour@gmail.com.

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ngazette.com – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

WHAT’S HAPPENING Continued from page 14 For more information or to RSVP, contact Britta Fisher at 720-259-1030.

Rockies Baseball Skills Challenge at Citizen’s Park June 27 Kids 6-13 can compete in throwing, hitting and running bases, in separate girls’ and boys’ divisions in the Rockies Baseball Skills Challenge at Citizen’s Park, West 24th Avenue and Chase Street, Saturday, June 27, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Winners qualify for a chance to compete in a regional and then a state championship and receive a Rockies Baseball Skills Challenge T-shirt and ticket to a Colorado Rockies game. The competition will start at 10 a.m. sharp, so plan on coming early to warm up or practice. The free event is sponsored by Edgewater Parks and Recreation and the Colorado Rockies. For registration or more information on programs and special events, visit the City of Edgewater’s Parks and Recreation website, www.playedgewater.com

Friday Night Live July 3 on the Green Ridge at 38 will again host Friday Night Live on the Green on Friday night, July 3, and partner with the First Friday Art Walk on 38th Avenue. The free night of live music, art, activities, food trucks, and a feature film at dusk: “The Goonies.” Ike Spivak and his band 7 Degrees will be onstage, artist Mandie Erickson will be heading up chalk art creations, and Teller

Street Gallery & Studios will offer free flag painting for the kids at their 7190 W. 38th Ave. digs. Businesses and art galleries open for the art walk include Teller Street Gallery & Studios with their third anniversary art show, The Art Lounge (inside Colorado Plus), Lucid Studio, Posey Girl Floral Boutique, Studio 38, Right Coast Pizza, and Ananda Art and Tattoo. The festivities begin at 6p.m., on the Wheat Ridge 5-8 Green, 7101 W. 38th Ave. For more information, call 720-2591030 or visitRidgeAt38.com

Edgewater Farmers Market Begins July 9 Edgewater Farmers Market & Music kicks off Thursday, July 9, from 5 to 8 p.m., along the city’s historic 25th Street, and continues every Thursday evening through Sept. 10. The family-friendly summer market features lots of great vendors, live music and entertainment. For more information, visit CityofEdgewaterFarmersMarket on Facebook or www.playedgewater.com.

Classes are priced individually and sixclass discount punch cards are available. Projects are designed to be completed in one class. Ages 9 and up. For more information, call 303-424 9273 or visit www.tellerstreetgallery.com.

Open House June 20 at American Legion Find out what the American Legion is and what they do when American Legion Post 17 holds an open house, Saturday, June 20, noon to 4 p.m., at 1901 Harlan St., Edgewater. If you’re looking for a local venue for your next social event, the Legion does rent out its hall, which features: capacity for 125, a stage, dimmable lights, projection screens and plenty of parking. Catering and linen rental is also available. Mark your calendars for future American Legion events, including a Community Carnival on Aug. 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with games, face painting, food and lots of water, and the annual car show on Sept. 12, 11 a.m., with beautiful cars, raffles, games and music. For more information, email Lynn

Summer Art Clubs for Kids at Teller Street Gallery

Cody at 303-238-2401 or mlrcody@outlook.com.

Wheat Ridge Ranks in Top 10 in Bike Challenge Local riders ages 5 to 75 have contributed to ranking Wheat Ridge No. 8 in the state in the National Bike Challenge, and our team is in the top 10 percent of almost 1,800 teams nationally. No small potatoes! Everyone is invited to be a part of the Wheat Ridge Active Transportation Advisory Team: The Mighty ATATs! The challenge is a free and fun way to motivate people of all ages to ride more, whether it’s to the Ridge at 38 or to downtown. In addition to national prizes, we have local challenges to encourage riders to join Cruiser Crawls, bike the Garden Tour and ride to local businesses. June and July prizes include gift certificates to Wheat Ridge Cyclery, Right Coast Pizza, Colorado Plus and boxes of Helliemae’s Salted Caramels. It’s as easy as: Ride. Record. Celebrate! For more information and to join the home team, visit the ATATs’ website at www.WalkBikeRide.net or email wratat@ gmail.com.

For Seniors and Adults with a Disability

Teller Street Gallery and Studios will be offering summer art activities for children at its Wheat Ridge digs, 7190 W. 38th Ave. Tweens and Teens teaches various techniques with different projects and instructors every week on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons in June and July. Small class sizes allow individual attention. Projects include oil painting, charcoal sketching, watercolor painting, mosaic tile art, bookmaking, wire sculpture and acrylic painting.

6340 West 38th Avenue Wheat Ridge, Co 80033

Apartments Currently Available

303-424-9401x3

Saturday, July 11, 2015 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Tour starts at Pietra’s Pizzeria, 9045 W. 44th Ave. Tickets: $15 includes Lunch Stop

Have A Question?

Providing a selection of locally grown perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs, from soil to harvest we’re here to help.When the season is right, shop our Farmers Market with fresh fruit and produce from around Colorado.

Give us a call 303-420-4060 11700 W. 58th Avenue timberlinegardens.com Friends of the Garden Tour Offering a variety of rocks, stones, boulders, mulch and soils. Products include cobblestone, flagstone, moss rock, mulches, potting soil, topsoil and more.

open every day

303-423-5606 • 4114 Harlan St.

9400 W. 44th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO. 80033 303-422-8408 • youngsmarketandgardencenter.com

5401 W. 52nd Ave. • 303-432-7222

Yes, you have time for the garden. We will take care of the cleaning! Professional commercial and residential cleaning services • IICRC certified cleaning technicians • Proud partner of Cleaning For A Reason • ARCSI member since 2005

720-251-9840 www.myhomemaidclean.com

Posey Girl

Floral Boutique 7210 West 38th Ave. 303.847.0124 poseygirlflowers.com

A Tip Top Tree Company Trimming & Removal • Stump Grinding • Planting Landscapes & Design • Firewood Residential & Commercial • Licensed & Insured BBB Accredited A+

303-431-7910

Locally owned and operated since 1987 303-421-5549 32 Skyline Drive Wheat Ridge, Co 80215 katde2000@hotmail.com

Commercial/ Residential Landscape Maintenance 303.238.5703 Since 1983

50% OFF

2563 Kipling St. 303-231-9400 Mon - Sat 8-8, Sun 9-6

• Walker’s Quality Cage & Feed, 303-424-4456

One Full price Item Under $30

• A-1 Rentals, 303-424-4456

Coupon also good for $15 off one regular price item over $30. One coupon per customer. Not valid with other offers. Valid at Lake Ridge only.

• The Pampering Place Day Spa, 303-324-6078

• Grounded by Design, 303-872-7807 • Monica Duran, 720-312-0583 • Boatright & Ripp, LLC, 303-423-7131

Tree, Shrub & Perennial Planting Handcrafted Patios & Walkways Sprinkler Systems

earth-n-art.com

303-587-2167

• Guy Nahmiah, Nostalgic Homes, 303-999-5789 • B&F Tire Co., 303-421-2063 • Clancy’s Irish Pub, 7000 W. 38th Ave. • Loretta DiTirro, RE/MAX Professionals, 303-594-1520 • Ernest Nitka, Photographer, 303-478-2026 • Wheat Ridge ATAT, WalkBikeRide.net

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – JUNE 18 - JULY 17, 2015 – ngazette.com

APPLEWOOD BARBER SHOP V1

Experienced barbers/stylists

Your experienced, professional neighborhood barbers and stylists

CAR TALK WITH TOM Tom’s Quick Tips for Towing a Camper or Trailer This Summer By Tom Schmuke

It’s the time of year when I begin Phil, Gerald, Bernie & Don installing a lot of trailer hitches and Peter Damian Arguello 303.463.5335 out with trailer brakes. For those Peter Damianhelping Arguello 303.463.5335 of you that haven’t towed a camper or toyLarge waiting· Wheat area full of Colorado Ridge, 7220carpeted West 38th Avenue 7220 West 38th80033 Avenue · Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033 hauler before, here are some quick points comfortable seating, great books, toys, peter@peterdamianjewelry.com peter@peterdamianjewelry.com to consider before taking off this summer. TV or music and FREE coffee Have fun! www.peterdamianjewelry.com www.peterdamianjewelry.com All haircuts are blow dried.

Includes a razor shave around the ears & neck for men.

Weight Matters

hitch balls, ball couplers, break-away safety devices, four- and seven-pin electric couplers, safety chains, side mirrors, loadleveling and sway-control devices, chocks (or blocks) for parking and supplemental brake-control systems, which control the sensitivity and force with which the towable’s brakes are applied. Trailers also need working tail, brake and turn-signal light systems (controlled from the tow vehicle) to make the whole setup street legal. Given that towing requires extra electrical power, you need to ensure that your alternator and battery are of the proper size and capacity to power everything.

The weight of your tow vehicle, towable and hitch all matter. First, check your tow20TH AVE. vehicle owner’s manual for (1) its gross V2 V3 vehicle weightV3 rating (GVWR), which is the maximum allowable weight when fully loaded with fuel, fluids, passengers and cargo/gear; (2) its towing capacity, Located at the Using Checklists and the maximum it can tow in addition to its southwest corner of GVWR; and (3) its hitch-weight rating, 20th & Youngfi eld Comfortable waiting space Doing Maintenance is Key the maximum weight allowed at the point Because trailer hitch systems have so where the receiver hitch connects with many components, it’s important to stay the towable’s “tongue.” (For hitch-weight organized. Having good checklists will ratings on certain vehicles, you might prevent you from missing a component, 7220 West 38th Avenue 7220 West 38th Avenue need to contact the manufacturer directly.) www.PeterDamianJewelry.com www.PeterDamianJewelry.com skipping a step, or tackling a step out Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033 Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033 Finally determine the GVWR of the towable, of the proper sequence. In addition, which is usually stamped or embossed on a manufacturers of tow vehicles, towables and plate or Arguello tag on the towable itself.Damian Arguello Peter Damian Arguello Peter Damian Arguello Peter Damian towing equipment alike provide detailed Peter From here on out, it’s simple math. If 303.463.5335 guidance about maintenance and service – 303.463.5335 303.463.5335 your tow vehicle can only tow a303.463.5335 maximum of what needs to be done, when and how often. peter@peterdamianjewelry.com peter@peterdamianjewelry.com peter@peterdamianjewelry.com peter@peterdamianjewelry.com 5,000 pounds fully loaded, don’t even think Following their guidelines will prevent about hitching it to a 6,000-pound GVWR trouble down the road. towable. the weight at7220 the West hitch38th of aAvenue 7220 West 38thAnd Avenue www.PeterDamianJewelry.com www.PeterDamianJewelry.com FORMERLY CASH & COLLECTABLESWheat Ridge, trailer should be between 10 and 12 percent Colorado 80033 Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033 You’ll Have to Learn to of a fully loaded trailer’s actual weight; for a 7220 West 38th Avenue fifth-wheel, toy-hauler or gooseneck setup, 303.463.5335 Drive – Again it shouldn’t exceed 25 percent. Driving with a towable takes a little Tiffany & Eli Lucero WE BUY: Be conservative when packing for your practice. Formal lessons can help (search 720-789-1880 GOLD COINS SILVER first time out, which really should be to a for “RV driving schools” online). Some resurrectioncarpet.com DIAMONDS WATCHES ANTIQUES truck scale along the interstate to check the states even require certificates from schools and more! weight of the towable and the tow vehicle. for you to legally operate larger RVs. But You also need to check the weight at the many folks like to learn by doing. Start by hitch; some dealers and service centers have reading your tow-vehicle owner’s manual. portable scales that can weigh this. There might be instructions on selecting the YOUNGFIELD

We are a friendly, family oriented business. We look V2 forward to meeting you soon! Monday-Friday 8am to 5:30pm Saturday 8am to 2pm WALK-INS ONLY

1901 YOUNGFIELD ST. • 303-232-1800

Proudly Providing Eco-friendly Cleaning.

Hitch Systems Vary Peter Damian • 303-463-5335 7220 West 38th Avenue

When it comes to trailer hitches, it’s not a one type-, size- or set of components-suitsall deal. For example, the hitch receivers that connect a tow vehicle to a towable come in classes ranging from I up to IV, the class needed for towables with a high GVWR. The list of hitch-system components and towing accessories is lengthy and includes

right gear for starting out or going up and down grades or, if applicable, how and when to use the tow mode. Next find a big, empty parking lot. Practice parking, accelerating, braking, turning and backing up. This will give you greater confidence when it’s time to get out there and change lanes, pull out into traffic, pass, turn corners, and park on inclines and declines.

4990 Kipling Street #1 (303) 422-3300 www.lukesasteakplace.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

Got a car care question? Email Tom Schmuke at tom@qualityautocare.com or editor@ngazette.com

Father’s Day

…are you in the mood?

make reservations now Brunch buffet from 10-2 Dinner from 4:30-9

Joni Janak Jazz July 8 and 22

Closed July 4!

SPECIAL! Mondays & Tuesdays only

3 course dinner & a bottle of wine for 2 for $59.95 Exp. 7/15/15

modmood modern furniture and design studio

7700 West 44th Avenue 303.728.9497 www.modmood.com