Neighborhood Gazette – November 2014 by Neighborhood Gazette

Tips For Drivers In This Winter Freeze see page 8

Shop, Share and Donate Locally This Season see page 2

Being Thankful for the Holidays see page 12

Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

Wheat Ridge | Edgewater | NOVEMBER 17-DECEMBER 18, 2014

Election 2014: What & Who We Voted For By Matthew Lilley

olorado’s first mail-in election is over, and the results are in – mostly. Ballot initiatives 2A and 2B in Wheat Ridge, asking voters for a tax increase to support critical infrastructure improvements and approval for changing the width of a section of the 38th Ave corridor, both failed to find voter support. At press time Democrat Cheri Jahn holds a small lead over challenger Larry Queen in Colorado Senate District 20, which includes Wheat Ridge, Edgewater and other parts of Jefferson County. Results of that race – and all races – will become official Nov. 21. Colorado House District 24, which includes Wheat Ridge and Edgewater, saw Jessie Danielson edge out former Wheat Ridge council member Joe DeMott. In Edgewater, voters approved a plan to clean up the city’s charter and eliminate a commission. The big story from election night, however, is the failure of ballot issue 2A in Wheat Ridge. Voters rejected a measure asking for a 1 percent sales tax increase to raise revenues by $6.4 million annually and to increase the allowed debt for the city by $40 million for “critical facility, infrastructure and economic development projects” and “construction, installation, operation and maintenance of parks and recreation improvements including revitalization of Anderson park.” The question garnered 5,164 yes votes to 7,861 no votes. City Manager Patrick Goff said the failure of 2A will tie the hands of the city going forward. “Resources for infrastructure projects will be very limited and potentially

nonexistent in the future,” he said. “Council will have prioritize what, if any, infrastructure projects are completed. I will recommend that we focus limited resources on preventative street maintenance.” Goff speculated that current revenue might be diverted to cover critical infrastructure expenditures but cautioned that current revenue still might not be enough. “City Council will have to prioritize on an annual basis what gets funded – operating expenses or capital infrastructure,” he said. “Financial analysis has determined that even with signiﬁcant operating budget cuts there still would not be enough resources available to catch up on the backlog of critical infrastructure projects.” Council member Bud Starker said that Wheat Ridge will have to tighten its belt. “As a city we will develop a budget that lives within our means and delivers the public facilities and services desired by our citizens to the extent of available funding,” he said. “We will prioritize funding needs and requests in an effort to balance our public safety responsibilities and infrastructure maintenance requirements with other sectors in the budget so we don’t balance the budget on the backs of one particular segment or another,” Starker added. Going forward, Wheat Ridge is not without options for infrastructure improvements: “Council could seek a tax increase again or implement fees without a vote of the citizens,” Goff said. While voter turnout nationwide was depressed, even more in a midterm election year, it was one of the stronger turnouts in Jefferson County and Wheat Ridge. “Over Continued on page 12

Marijuana Can Wait: Wheat Ridge Passes Another Moratorium By J. Patrick O’Leary

ant to start a marijuana business in Wheat Ridge? Come back in the spring, says the city. Maybe. Wheat Ridge City Council unanimously passed a 120-day moratorium on applications for new medical or recreational marijuana establishments at its Oct. 27 regular meeting, following a packed public meeting the previous week at which residents voiced concerns about commercial cannabis in general and one potential pot shop in particular. Council chose to put a temporary hold on the submission, acceptance, processing, and approval of all applications and requests for a city permit, license, land use approval or other approval for any medical marijuana establishment or retail marijuana establishment. During that time, city staff is directed to refuse to accept for ﬁling, and not to further process or review any pending applications or requests. However, the moratorium does not apply to applications

received prior to Aug. 18. The moratorium will take effect Nov. 17, upon expiration of the previous emergency moratorium, which was extended 90 days in August. That decision was made after council discussed lifting the ban at an Aug. 22 special study session, which included presentations for and against by citizens and advocacy groups. Existing Wheat Ridge regulations allow marijuana vendors in areas zoned Commercial 1 and Industrial-Employment, with a minimum separation of threequarters of a mile between stores, and no closer than 1,000 feet from schools, college campuses, daycares, and drug/alcohol rehab centers. Manufacturers of marijuanainfused products are only allowed in Industrial-Employment zones, with the same separation requirements. Commercial growing of marijuana is only allowed adjacent to shops and manufacturers; private caregivers and users are allowed to Continued on page 2

SLEIGH RIDES, HOT DRINKS, AND CAROLERS will bolster the season’s feelings in front of Wheat Ridge 5-8 Middle School, 7101 W. 38th Ave during the Holiday Celebraiton, Dec. 6, starting at 3 p.m., leading up to the tree lighting around 6:45-7 p.m. Event organizers promise less lines, with two Santas working double time to keep up with the demand. PHOTO BY BLU HARTKOPP

Wheat Ridge Rings in the Holidays Dec. 6 By Laura Poole

ven though we’ve barely seen winter weather the holidays are approaching quickly, and that means the annual tree lighting, as well as some other fun holiday events, will be bringing cheer to Wheat Ridge once again. Dec. 6 will mark this year’s celebrations, and like last year have many fun activities for everyone in town. Starting at 3 p.m., sleigh rides, hot drinks, a bonfire, pictures with Santa, a trackless train ride for the kiddos, hot beverages and snacks, crafts and activities in local businesses, and live performances and carolers will bolster the season’s feelings in front of Wheat Ridge 5-8 Middle School (7101 West 38th Ave.), leading up to the tree lighting around 6:457, which will conclude the festivities. This year’s celebration falls on a Saturday, a new attempt for the city to bring out more community members, said Recreation Supervisor Rachel Wysuph. Although the event is already pretty popular last year’s freezing weather was a bit much, so moving it to an earlier time and on the weekend (as well as having more warm food at the ready) should be a little easier for residents to enjoy. It also works a little better for local businesses that will be involved. “I think the fact that it’s the free holiday event is the biggest draw,” said Wysuph. “Go out and have fun in your community.” There will also be two Santas this year, working double time to meet and take pictures with children because “last year was too overwhelming,” said Wheat Ridge 2020 Events and Communications Coordinator Mara Owen. The first will take a much needed cookie break then the second will step in, hopefully without notice, to continue taking pictures. The pictures will then be available via email, given when parents fill out a form to

get their kid’s picture taken. There will be minimal lines this year as the organizers will be using their successful messaging system; put your name and number down and you will receive a text when it’s your family’s turn. Avoid the lines and grab some hot chocolate, get a few candy cane necklaces, or take a ride around the block in the horsedrawn carriage. In addition, there will be a partnership with the Optimists Club for a toy drive leading up to Christmas. There will be different drop off sites around town for decorated ornaments and “most Ridge at 38 businesses will be doing it,” said Owen. The tree lighting only recently moved to Ridge at 38 in 2012 when Wheat Ridge 2020 got involved and helped move it from the recreation center, where it used to be called the Holiday Lighting Ceremony and was a much smaller event. “It was a huge success,” said Wysuph. “When we had it [at the rec center] we had maybe 200-250 people. The ﬁrst year [at Ridge at 38] we probably saw over 1,000 and we knew we hit a hot spot with that.” Another holiday event taking place very soon is Gobble Jog, a community event on Thanksgiving morning as a way to “shed some pounds before putting them back on,” jokes Owen. Starting at 9 a.m. in front of the recreation center, members of the community are welcome to join together and walk or jog a lap along the Clear Creek trail. There will be signs posted so nobody gets lost and lead by route creator Tara Jahn. “[It’s] to remind you of your friends and neighbors and what you’re thankful for,” said Owen, a great way to kick of the holiday, get some fresh air and keep the feel of Thanksgiving with you all day. “It’s going to be fun,” added Owen, already planning on going herself. “I’m really excited about it.”

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 17–DECEMBER 18, 2014 – ngazette.com

Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

Find Me!

Tim Berland 303-995-2806 e-mail: editor@ngazette.com www.ngazette.com 4385 Wadsworth Blvd., #140, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Publication date is the 15th of each month. Advertising: Tim Berland 303-995-2806 Copy Editing/Proofreading: J. Patrick O’Leary, Cyndy Beal & Sarah DiTullio

Once again, our lucky little clucker has flown the coop, find him in this issue and

send an email to puzzle@ngazette.com and tell us where it is. We will draw a winner out of the correct responses and send them a cool prize. Good luck!

Expertise, Efﬁciency, Proven Results Serving Wheat Ridge & Denver Metro West

loretta ditirro Call for your private consultation 1/12 H 303.594.1520 LorettaDiTirro@gmail.com www.LorettasHomes.com

w 29th ave 1/12 H

Expertise, Efﬁciency, Proven Results Serving Wheat Ridge & Denver Metro West

Call for your private consultation

303.594.1520 GUY N LorettaDiTirro@gmail.com 1/12 H www.LorettasHomes.com

Shop, Share and Donate Locally This Season By Laura Poole

orning light splayed across the hardwood floor, the gentle hum of conversation, the fresh smell of vegetables pulled out of the dirt that morning and a banjo softly playing could be the best way to kick off Wheat Ridge’s local farmers market. Every second and fourth weekend of the month the Grange will host a farmers market from 9 a.m. to noon where local farmers can bring their goods to sell, as well as inform members of the community on their efforts. The first one took place last Saturday, Nov. 8, and the vendors came with a range of items from vegetables, granola products, dairy and honey, to information on organic gardening and homemade goods. “It’s the farmers market we want to create,” said Mara Owen, events and communications coordinator for Wheat Ridge 2020. The Trading Post farmers market is a new effort in town for locals to come together in their community. Neil Fisher organizes these markets in other towns, but this one is solely focused on local community. Wheat Ridge 2020 came to The Grange with the idea to host a local farmers market on weekends, unlike the bigger ones that pass through town, in order to bring out more of the community. From there, Fisher stepped in and soon a partnership grew. “This is a community project,” said Fisher. “There’s a gal over here that has 12 jars of honey, which is great, she can sell her honey and then do it next year and there’s no other venue like that.” “My goal is finding the best proteins to supplement the community aspect of the gardening. I also would like to find somebody to help further do some Wheat Ridge community gardens—somebody to be here and sign people up… I think that’s really important in a community,” he added. For more information on their organic, centralized, farm-to-table philosophy, visit www.farm2tabletradingpost.com and see what might appeal to you. Another event being hosted at The Grange this holiday season is a food and stories sharing event on Thursday, Nov. 20, from 5:30-8 p.m., where members of the community come together to learn about the agricultural and historical roots of Wheat Ridge. The Historical Society has partnered with Wheat Ridge 2020 in order to bring the old and the new ways of agriculture together for people to learn about the past and the future of our town.

Pot Moratorium Continued from page 1

Swim Otters Swim & Fitness School Private Swim Lessonnsths - 12 Years Mo 6 Ages For Kids,

Nurturing, Expert Instruction Open Seven Days A Week swim ottwers Results in weeks not years!

We gave o ur Grandkids the gif t of swimming !

1/8 H

Gift Certificates Available!

WATER SAFETY & SURVIVAL ♥ KID PARTYS STROKE DEVELOPMENT ♥ PARENT/TOT CLASSES ROOKIE SWIM TEAM ♥ SNORKELING

15% OFF

Private Swim Lessons Applicable to 8 week session, for new students only. Not valid with any other discounts or offer. Expires 2/28/2015

New Facility & Swim Shop!

3974 Youngfield St. 303-554 SWIM (7946) • www.SwimOtters.com

cultivate cannabis as an accessory use to their residence. Community Development Director Ken Johnstone outlined the additional regulatory options available to council at the August session, and Police Chief Dan Brennan briefed council on the impact of marijuana sales. The biggest impact has been police response – Calls for Service, or CFS. Brennan said 70 percent of all CFS were alarms, up from only one call in 2009 to 60 from January to August of this year; 98 percent of those alarm calls resulted in no incident. Crime-wise, there were ﬁve burglaries, two robberies (customers being robbed at gunpoint while leaving a store), one juvenile incident (kids outside a dispensary asking people to buy pot for them), three disturbances and 13 “suspicious incidents.” Overall, Brennan said CFS was trending upward, but not usually crime related, and that the numbers were similar to those for liquor stores. Brennan also remarked that there was a troubling increase in arrests for marijuana possession at elementary and middle schools, but that he felt prevention and

A TRADING POST FARMERS MARKET will be held every second and fourth weekend from 9 a.m. to noon at the Wheat Ridge Grange, 3850 High Court. PHOTO COURTESY OF WHEAT RIDGE 2020.

“It’s something I think a lot of people [who] move here value; history and culture,” said Owen. It’s an opportunity for people to learn about the roots of our town and how we grew to where we are today, as well as those who have a lot of knowledge about the old ways can learn how their efforts are being built on today. If you’ve ever wondered how to can your garden goods, for example, you can find out over potluck dinner followed by a professional storyteller and a history of how Wheat Ridge was founded. “Everyone is invited to tell their own story,” said Owen. “[This] program focuses on agriculture and we wanted to do something to involve the older generation… and interact with different generations. There’s a big cross section that would love to hear what they went through and the history, so we’re bringing them together.” She adds that The Grange was a great help in bringing the two sides together. A charitable event taking place again this year is Colorado Gives Day. A list of non-profit organizations in Colorado are posted online at www.coloradogives.org for people to learn about, and of course, donate to. Donors can schedule their giving in advance, or give anytime during Tuesday, Dec. 9. To motivate donors to give on Colorado Gives Day, Community First Foundation and FirstBank partnered to create a $1 Million Incentive Fund. The incentive fund, one of the largest giving-day incentive funds in the country, proportionally increases the value of every dollar donated. For example, if a nonprofit organization receives 10 percent of the total donations made on Colorado Gives Day, that same nonprofit receives 10 percent of the $1 Million Incentive Fund. The 2014 Incentive Fund is 300 percent larger than last year. “It’s everything about the state of Colorado,” said Owen. From big places like the Botanic Gardens to smaller efforts like Family Tree, learn about the various organizations in our state and what they do. education were the best, positive steps to address the issue. Public comment was allowed for 20 minutes, followed by a 20-minute presentation by Bob Doyle of Smart Approaches to Marijuana on the negative aspects of allowing marijuana sales, and another 20 minutes by Michael Elliot of the Marijuana Trade Association supporting continued marijuana commerce. Council reached a consensus to extend the moratorium 90 days, and consider extending separation limits and adopting a special use permit process in future study sessions. Fast forward to October, and the vote before council was to extend the moratorium once again, and have staff investigate and bring to council any proposed regulations in the interim. At the Oct. 20 public hearing, comment was heavily against marijuana vending and a possible new establishment at West 38th Avenue and Miller Street (although no application has been submitted for the property, according to the city). A week later, council took additional public comment, and voted. At evening’s end, the city appeared to be where it was in August: Wanting more time to research the issue, and putting off the decision to somewhere – 120 days – down the road.

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 18, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

NOSTALGIC FULL

neighborhood gazette – NOVEMBER 17–DECEMBER 18, 2014 – ngazette.com

EdgEwatEr City NEws

Joseph P. O’Leary Attorney At LAw

Are We There Yet?

Real Estate • Wills & Probate • Small Business

The Majestic Building • 1630 Miner Street, Suite 246 P.O. Box 725 • Idaho Springs, CO 80452-0725

Sarah DuBal

Sarah’s Petsitting peoples market 1/24 H

720-299-6568 feedersarah@gmail.com sarah dubois

Pet Feeding (daily) • Dog Walking • Animal Playtime Clean Kitty Boxes, Cages • Feed Fish Water Plants • Shovel Snow • Mail/Trash and so much more…

1/24 H

$10 PER VISIT

First visit FREE with this ad. Thank you!

Don’t Sell Your Best Investment. Keep it cash-ﬂowing, hassle free!

pioneer 1/24 H

Sun Plumbing 1/24 H

“Great Tenants Guaranteed.”

720-839-7482 RentMeDenver.com

Celebrating Our 50th Anniversary!

Do you keep your Financial options open? Generate an income stream, in addition to your business or full time career!

Kids Get 50¢pietras Pizzas 1/8 V or Spaghetti Weekdays

BOB DUBOIS 1/8 V

with $10 Adult Purchase 9045 W. 44th Ave 303-421-4100 Check out our website

pietraspizza.com Now Serving Pizza By The Slice Daily 11-3

How should Edgewater candidates ask you to vote for them? When I first ran for office seven – yes, seven – years ago, I was lections are finally over – for the time not physically able to walk very far, nor stand being. You know national politicians for very long. So I hosted Candidate Coffees have been at it for a while and unfortunately and invited the other candidates (except for it will get worse. The Center for Responsive my opponent) to attend and share the event. Politics predicts that this mid-term election The voters were able to choose between an cycle will have cost at least $3.67 billion; evening and a Saturday morning coffee. and voter turnout regularly drops in midThe idea was to allow citizens to share term elections, and has done so since the coffee and conversation with 1840s. (For details, visit: www. all the candidates. It seemed opensecrets.org and www. less intrusive than knocking pewresearch.org) on your door during a Bronco As you may have noticed, game or while you nap. Don’t you cannot get away from the get me wrong, door-to-door campaign ads. You can mute campaigning is an excellent way your TV. You can ignore your to connect with voters. Some phone, particularly if you folks like this practice more have caller ID. You can refuse than others. I have also heard to answer your door. But be some say they would pay money assured…candidates will find to stop the ROBO calls. What is you. the solution? Personally, I was appalled Bonnie McNulty Do you want to be able at the resources spent at the to find the candidates at a coffee? On the national, state and local levels on literature, Internet? Would you rather they knock on phone calls and polls. Rest assured, next your door (during supper?) or would you November I will not be asking you to vote prefer studying the signs in your neighbor’s for me as your mayor, as I am term-limited. yard? Maybe you’d prefer to reach out to Eleven and a half months from now the them. Please visit www.edgewaterco.com City of Edgewater will have six, count them, to find out how to contact your current city six seats up for election—five council seats officials. They really do want to hear from and the mayor’s seat. Are you interested in you. serving the city? Please attend council and Don’t forget every Wednesday from to 9 commission meetings. If you’re interested in to 11 a.m. at the Target Starbucks, I’ll pay for who our mayors have been in the past, go to your drink and we can talk. If you would like the city’s website, edgewaterco.govoffice3. to meet at another time please contact. com. Under “Living Here” select “History/ Contact Edgewater Mayor Bonnie McProfile” and go to the bottom of the page Nulty at 303-233-6216 or bjmcnulty2@ and click on “History of City of Edgewater comcast.net. Mayors.”

By Bonnie McNulty

oasis (303) 567-0388, ext. 246 1/12 H joseph.oleary.law@gmail.com

For details call “Millionaire club Members” Bob & Mary Dubois at 720-435-5076

EdgEwatEr City COUNCiL Smart Growth A commitment to investing in infrastructure improvements is also critical. These improvements affect the lives of rowth, or should I say smart growth, everyone within our community in a very means planning for what lies ahead. fundamental way, and also support smart Securing the best opportunities while growth, creating a setting where people ensuring that all citizens enjoy prosperity is want to live, work and play. what we strive for. We all want our local economies to grow The best city planning is a dialogue and become more stable. Economic growth, between all stakeholders, not an outcome however, does not automatically dictated by any single party. It deliver a better quality of life for involves looking at changing all citizens. populations, impacts on We should be insistent transportation, housing, on opportunity for all. Our schools, sustainability and many value proposition should not be other aspects of city life. confined to just luring business, Admittedly, less than a it should offer opportunities to decade ago we lacked a coherent all residents. This includes good vision that the city and citizens education, good schools and could understand, let alone good services. All of this with support. In contrast, today we the understanding that while have a vision that can power our some of these opportunities are progress. Todd Riddle outside of the city’s direct control, Today our vision promotes we still have a voice at the table. protecting, preserving and enhancing Great cities are diverse communities. As the city’s economic, social, cultural and living standards rise, and our city grows in aesthetic values. It is a vision colored by a prosperity, access to housing is an area that sound assessment of where our competitive should be discussed, not only to meet the advantages lie. needs of those looking to move into our city, We should not only think about but our current residents as well. Edgewater’s growth, but regional growth Together as a community we can, as well. Cooperation with our surrounding and should, advocate smart growth while municipalities and regional service retaining our unique Edgewater brand for providers is imperative for success. Taking our future generations to come. on others’ goals as our own makes for longI have requested a future workshop standing success for everyone. It should not session dedicated to smart growth within be about competition or conflict, it should be our community. When that happens, please about collaboration and shared ownership. plan to join us in the continuing effort to Remaining diligent that our recently create a culture of accountability that holds updated Comprehensive Plan can be adapted us all responsible for the progress towards over time is critical. More updates to the our city’s goals. Comprehensive Plan will be needed as we Thank you for the opportunity to serve find our way through implementation. The you as your Mayor Pro-Tem. Comprehensive Plan is meant to be flexible, Contact Edgewater Councilman Todd evolving along with the city’s changing needs Riddle at 303-519-8592 or triddle@edgewhile ensuring that the city continues to waterco.com. make progress toward its long-term goals.

By Todd Riddle

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 18, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

Wheat Ridge City COUNCiL

We are thankful to be part of a great community

When Will Wheat Ridge Answer The Bell? capacity issues and reductions of services. This is the will of the citizens of Wheat Ridge, so this is what will happen. Right or inding your way as a city is not an easy wrong, the consequences of pressing pause task. It requires focus and commitment, in the growth and development of our city and answering the bell round after round. will be something that we all will have to live Unfortunately, after the defeat of a new tax with in the coming years. initiative critical for among other things the So how will we provide real investment basic maintenance of the city, Wheat Ridge in our community beyond the basics? How will not answer the bell. will we grow into the future? On Personally, I am a financial basis we won’t, and disappointed. City Council as this could be a risky proposition a group unanimously placed in the face of the community the question on the ballot and “lifestyle” competition that and council members worked is being waged all around us. extremely hard to communicate If we don’t have the funds the great need that exists in to meet your basic needs, then our city. Regardless, after any what will be cut to ensure we election win or lose, it’s time to meet them? If we don’t have move forward. We may not all the money to invest in our agree on how to move Wheat community, then what will we Ridge forward, but I think that George Pond become? As we move through it is clear that we need to face these difficult times, I ask you, a tough situation together. Our my neighbors: What do you want our city city is stuck, in some respects broke, and to be? And how will you participate in this we should think critically about what comes process? Because you and your desires are next. all we have left to invest. Voters have chosen not to invest in I moved to Wheat Ridge with the hope Wheat Ridge now. As a result, we are faced to start a family, build a community, and with a lack of funding from tax revenues to create a lifestyle that I wanted. Sound meet some of the city’s most basic needs. familiar? It should. It is the story of so Unfortunately, within this expanding many families, community builders, and economy, Wheat Ridge will now retract. advocates of a unique lifestyle that founded The budget will be reduced in the coming and invested in the city of Wheat Ridge. I weeks. Fundamental maintenance of our hope someday I get same chance that they roads and other public infrastructure will be had. I hope Wheat Ridge answers the bell. left undone, so those potholes on your street Unfortunately, not yet. may not get filled and the flooding in your Contact District III Representative neighborhood may not get fixed. The city George Pond at 303-880-8729 or gpond@ will not invest in our recreation facilities, ci.wheatridge.co.us. and this will result in ever increasing

By George Pond

ANTHONY M’S 1/12 H

Dr. Darren Bennett & Dr. Lisa Bennett

2045 Sheridan Blvd, Ste H, Edgewater, CO 80214 303-274-1100 • www.sloansidedental.com Se Habla Español

$85

$149

$55

In-Office $300 Value

Includes exam, cleaning, and fluoride application.

11/30/14. Expires 11/30/13.

11/30/14. New patients only. Expires 11/30/13.

Adult Exam

Teeth Whitening

Call to set your appointment

includes exam, cleaning & digital x-rays

11/30/14. New patients only. Expires 11/30/13.

Child Exam

Call to set your appointment

Our That Cares Cares Our Patients Patients Get Get Undivided Undivided Attention Attention from from aa Team Staff That

gUest editORiaL

9.25x10.75.pdf

9/30/14

1:11 PM

News From the Wheat Ridge Education Alliance student at Wheat Ridge High School. We are honored to have three recipients of the Hero Awards right here in our city. To Mr. n April of 2014 Wheat Ridge Committee Scaglione and Mr. Walker, thank you for for Educational Excellence was formed your dedication to teaching and inspiring to connect and work with our local schools. our youth. To Helen Castillo, thank you for We recently changed the new committee’s being an outstanding student name to reflect our mission citizen. and scope of work. The Wheat Wheat Ridge High School Ridge Education Alliance is was also in the news recently for a coalition of city officials, their Pink Showdown October citizens, business owners and football game to raise funds and educators working to advance support breast cancer awareness. educational excellence in Wheat The student senate and school Ridge schools. We continue clubs formed a partnership with to work with principals and Lutheran Medical Center for schools to develop programs to the special events held during promote our local schools for the football game. Wheat Ridge local families. Strong schools Genevieve Wooden played longtime rival Golden make strong cities. High School; winning the game We have 17 Wheat Ridge and making the Pink Showdown the first schools to serve our citizens. A directory annual event for breast cancer awareness at of schools published in September can be the school. found at City Hall, the Recreation Center and Students sold over 1,000 pink t-shirts, online at the city website. In the directory players wore pink socks just like the pros, you will find basic contact information and and funds raised will help research for points of pride for all schools including finding a cure to breast cancer. A link to the public, private, and faith based education. video about the event can be found on the We have heroes in Wheat Ridge city website, or search for Pink Showdown education! The Jeffco Schools Foundation on YouTube. honored seven exceptional and inspiring Our local schools invite families of students and teachers from Jefferson children approaching school age to please County on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the come and visit. Our principals would love annual Hero Awards event. Of the seven to give you a tour and tell you about what individuals honored at the gala event hosted their school has to offer your student. As by the Foundation at the Arvada Center, we approach enrollment deadlines in the three where from Wheat Ridge Schools. next few months, take time to explore the These inspiring individuals were selected educational options available to you right from nominations across all Jefferson here in Wheat Ridge. County Schools. Genevieve Wooden is Wheat Ridge Congratulations to: Franky Scaglione, City Council Member, District IV, and Chair art teacher at Wheat Ridge High School; of the Education Alliance. Contact her at Scott Walker, eighth grade math teacher 303-204-9504. at Wheat Ridge 5-8; and Helen Castillo, a

By Genevieve Wooden

CMY

sloanside dental 1/4 V

– A Custom Jeweler You Can Trust ~ In Business since 1985 Insurance Appraiser • Gemologist • Diamonds Precious Gems • Repairs • Remounts • Estate Jewelry

6789 W. 44th Ave. • 303-424-1881 visionsingold.com • gems@visionsingold.com

neighborhood gazette – NOVEMBER 17–DECEMBER 18, 2014 – ngazette.com

school crossing Behind the Teaching Curtain calls and of course, social media. Last week however, a Jeffco teacher residing in Wheat here are four critical questions that our Ridge accepted my invitation to meet faceschools ask when setting goals for our to-face for an honest conversation about the situation in our schools. Anne (not her real students: 1. What do we expect our students to name) is in good but slim company. Until last week, only Dr. Stevenson had agreed to learn? meet in person. 2. How will we know when It took two meetings and they have learned it? a slew of emails to exchange 3. What will we do when frustrations and explanations. some students do not learn? What started as loud accusations, 4. What will we do when finger pointing and quoting some students already know it? studies and facts that supported each point of view eventually Each question is a door resulted in my having a deeper that opens to a multitude of understanding for the systems situations and opinions, but as already in place: A process built parents it is reassuring to know to evaluate and improve the that these questions are being performances of all our teachers; asked from the highest level Guy Nahmiach a realization that teachers right down to the classrooms … ranked “less than effective” were subject or are they? Every month I use my column to to organized help from the experienced celebrate and often question the value of ones. I was also reminded that even “highly the education students are getting in our effective” teachers are constantly looking to local schools. I usually receive feedback improve their skills. Teachers are regularly evaluated by from readers that have been asking the very same questions, as well as from the readers outside professionals who have been trained that disagree with my observations. These to look for certain functions and results. The almost always are in form of emails, phone training includes a calibration of expectations

By Guy Nahmiach

B & F Tire Co. In business & family owned for 60 years

Carousel Cleaners is always professional and does an excellent job meeting our laundry needs. The thing that sets them apart from the rest is the personal and friendly way they treat every customer. We are all VIP’s greeted with a smile. I appreciate doing business with and being a member of the Carousel family.” michael

b&f 1/16 V

Carousel Cleaners Night Drop Fast & Convenient!

4040 W. 38th Ave. 303-477-1001 Family Owned for over 38 Years

NeW TireS uSed TireS carousel 1/16 V ALiGNMeNTS Rotate/Balance $35 Alignment $72.50 (most cars)

6915 W. 38Th Ave. 303-421-2063

bob petroukys 1/16 H

Poinsettias

Get Yours Early For The Best Selection

Ask the Superintendent Answers to Questions Posed to Schools Superintendent Dan McMinimee

What is SBB or “Student Based Budgeting”? Jeffco is implementing a new approach to funding for our schools called Student Based Budgeting (SBB). SBB has been used by school districts across the nation since 2000, and in fact the idea has been considered in Jeffco for the past few years. It is currently used by several other Colorado districts. It is an opportunity for principals to have more control over how money is spent to further student achievement in their schools. Previously, principals were held accountable for achievement results, but funding decisions were made at the central level based on staffing formulas and school-specific program allocations. With SBB, schools will be funded per student, and the amount of funding attached to each child will vary based on his or her needs. Jeffco principals are currently receiving training and guidance about SBB and how to work with their school communities to determine spending priorities. Over the next several months you will be hearing more about Student Based Budgeting, including information about the role of school-level Accountability Committees. thank you, dan McMinimee, Superintendent Jefferson County Public Schools If you have a question for Superintendent McMinimee, please submit it to guy@NostalgicHomes.com or call it in to 303 999-5789.

and judgment as to end up with very close grades no matter who the evaluator is, using a rubric with 23 indicators attached to expected behaviors with specific results. Teachers that are evaluated to be “not effective” are put on “a letter.” This means an eight-week program with specific goals and in-class assistance to turn their performance around. Teachers that are still struggling after that period are then moved to a “plan.” An intense six-week “intervention” style program to help the teacher become “effective.” Failing the plan results in termination. This level of accountability seems to have gone unnoticed. Another example of good things not being talked about. Now if I’m off by a week or two, please don’t be upset. I’m simply trying to say that there is a process. Of course the conversation with Anne did include finances – compensation or lack thereof for our “effective” and “highly effective” teachers. While I do support paying for performance, I realize that a collaborative environment, where teachers share best practices benefiting all students, is certainly better than “very effective” teachers not sharing ideas with others that might need the help, especially with newly out-of-school teachers. Do I want effective teachers to be well paid? Absolutely! Doctors that heal our children are well paid. So should teachers that provide an education and prepare our students for their careers. Who teach them to manage their finances and instill a work ethic that will carry throughout their lives. What bigger influence will any other profession have on our children? I want these “very effective” teachers to make six-digit salaries. That’s how teaching can become a viable profession once again. Attract and hold on to caring, brilliant professionals that will be able to support a family on a good income. I’m not proposing huge dollars across the board, and I am definitely not a supporter of collective bargaining, but I am confident that if we continue the Strategic Compensation program, more teachers will continue to achieve excellence and deserve such salaries. Anne did agree that not all teachers are the same, and some in fact, are “not effective” and are asked to leave. But what

is more important is that some amazing and “highly effective” teachers are leaving on their own for better opportunities outside of Jeffco. I am increasingly concerned that my kids and future students will not be taught by the very best. Meeting Anne made me realize just how much the teachers were being misrepresented. How could all of these good things be going on without any media attention? Why are we only seeing them on the street holding picket signs? Why aren’t the cameras focused on teachers inside the classrooms? Up late reviewing lessons for the next day? Ten after-school clubs were started by the Everitt teachers, but no news release about that from their representatives. Who is shaping their public image? I’ve talked about teachers being lumped into one group without accounting for quality and yet this evaluation rubric has been used for three years already. Parents have been advocates for their own kids since birth. But who is actually representing our great teachers? I did borrow a book from Anne called “Visible Learning For Teachers.” It’s been called the “holy grail book for educators.” For me, it was simply an eye-opener. List of influences on achievements based on thousands of studies that highlight the correlation of low birth weight and economic factors on negative academic performance. The low impact that homework and class size actually has on students’ education. Great but controversial topics for future columns! I’m sure you’re already squirming – who will be the next Anne to actually meet me in person to discuss? To end this with an important notice from Wheat Ridge High School about the additional GT info night coming up in December. You can call Assistant principal Ken Trager to have your student shadow for a feel of the school program. Choice season is upon us. Lots of info is available on the City of Wheat Ridge website for a complete breakdown of all available schools around here, including charter, neighborhood and private. As always, thanks for reading. And thank you, Anne. Contact Guy Nahmiach at 303-9995789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

southwest gardens-2 1/16 V xxxxx 1/12 H open YeAR Ro UnD

303-423-5606 4114 Harlan St.

Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 18, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

LocaL Business news Divine Design Open House at Posey Girl, Nov. 25 & 26 Posey Girl Floral Boutique, 7210 W. 38th Ave., will show guests how to create their own centerpiece or hostess gift arrangement for Thanksgiving at a two-evening Divine Design Open House, Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 25 & 26, from 6-8 p.m. The shop will offer fresh and fabulous flowers and elements, as well as vases and containers, for any budget – guests are encouraged to BYOV (bring your own vase!) Design instruction is free, and so are the seasonal treats. For more information, including solo or group private design evenings, call 303-847-0124 or visit www.poseygirlflowers.com.

Shop Wheat Ridge First on Nov. 29 Shop Wheat Ridge First on Small Business Saturday will take place on Saturday, Nov 29. Businesses all over Wheat Ridge will have specials and deals. Small Business Saturday is a nationwide effort to promote local shopping to boost local economies and give shoppers a chance to make an economic impact in their own community.

People’s Market Encourages Local Holiday Shopping People’s Market is hosting a number of events to help showcase local Colorado artists, starting with Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29. Local Colorado Etsy shop, B. Buttons & Co., will be in the store from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with its full line of handmade soaps. There will be a drawing for a one-of-a-kind gift basket filled with

Colorado-made goods, worth $60 value, as well as samples and refreshments. Next month on Wednesdays, a Holiday Trunk Show on the is scheduled for Dec. 3, a Holiday Open House Dec. 10, and a Be Hippy Happy Hour on Dec. 17. People’s Market is also participating in the Winter Market & Holiday Fair, Sat. Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at Smedley Elementary, and the Ridge at 38th Holiday Celebration that same day, 3-7 p.m. “Remember that patronizing your locally owned businesses is the best and easiest way to support your community,” said owner Sarah Bohan. People’s Market is located at 5630 W. 29th Ave., Wheat Ridge. For event details and times, call 303237-4854, visit peoplesmarketdenver.com or its Facebook page.

Four to Go Open House Dec. 6 Four to Go, Denver’s Only Full Service Arctic Cat Dealer, is throwing an open house Sat., Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-4p.m., at its 10930 W. 44th Ave. digs, in Wheat Ridge. The shindig features food, a live radio feed, door prizes and deals. Four to Go features ATVs, UTVs and snowmobiles, plus parts, accessories, oil, apparel, truck, jeep and SUV accessories. For more information, call 303-4215876 or visit www.fourtogo.com.

Fido’s Grub-n-Tub Opens Dec. 4 Fido’s Grub-n-Tub, located at 5883 W. 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge, will host an open house and ribbon-cutting on Thursday, Dec. 4, from 4-7 p.m. Fido’s is a new neighborhood pet shop in Wheat Ridge, offering premium dog and cat food, two private self-wash rooms and holistic

iron raiL taVern CeLebrated itS grand oPening on Nov. 13 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Wheat Ridge city officials and business leaders. Left to right: WR2020 Executive Director Britta Fisher, councilman Tim Fitzgerald, mayor Joyce Jay, owner Bill Gaume, WR Economic Development Manager Steve Art, Wheat Ridge Business Association President Loretta DiTirro, EduCyber’s Maki DeLaet, and councilwoman Genevieve Wooden. The 4111 Kipling St. eatery offers tapas, steak and 25 beers on tap. Photo: NathaN Mosley.

grooming for dogs. It’s owned by Luke and Prudence Schultz-Burrey, who say the strong sense of community and small-town feel lured them to Wheat Ridge, both to open their business and to live. For more information, call 303-4633302.

Weather Guy Chris Tomer Highlight of WRBA Holiday Luncheon Wheat Ridge Business Association Annual Holiday Luncheon will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 9, 11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m., at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. Channel 2 Meteorologist Chris Tomer will be the guest speaker at the celebration, which offers networking opportunities, door prizes and more. Attendees are asked to bring canned goods to be donated to Arvada Community Food Bank. Prepaid reservations

are required, $20 per person – pay online at www.wheatridgebiz.com/meetingregister. php by Dec. 4. For more information, call 303-5941520.

Pet Day Marks Muddy Paws Opening, Dec. 6 Muddy Paws Bath House is hosting a special pet day on Saturday, Dec. 6., at 4332 Harlan St. The event starts with a ribboncutting and grand-opening ceremony at 10 a.m., and includes a pet adoption mobile unit, art gallery with all-month-long specials, a photo booth, refreshments and other fun for pets and their owners. All this till 6 p.m. Muddy Paws Bath House offers a self-service pet wash as well as full grooming services. For more information, visit www.uddypawsbathhouse.com or call 303-4337652.

Wheat Ridge Business Association Holiday Luncheon Tues. Dec. 9 • 11:30 am-1:30 pm • Wheat Ridge Rec Center Guest Speaker: Chris Tomer, Channel 2 Meteorologist $20 per person Prepaid reservations required by Dec. 5 www.wheatridgebiz.com/meetingregister.php Attendees are asked bring canned goods to beneﬁt Arvada Community Food Bank

Info: 303-594-1520

Mandy & Joe Fulton • 303-424-9273 tellerstreetgallery.com

Loretta DiTirro • 303-594-1520 lorettashomes.com

WRBA 1/2 V Gayle Maschari-Mohr • 303-424-1881 JEWELER

visionsingold.com

Cheryl Blum Garcia • 303-232-1736 my-legalplan.com

7756 W 38th Ave. • 303-424-9449 Come visit Crysta & Laura too!

Bud Starker • 303-233-3377 west29th.com

Lorian Bartle 720-353-2902 LorianBartleStrings.com

Pat Dolan 303-753-8800 3850 Wadsworth Blvd. • AAA.com

Boatright & Ripp, LLC ATTORNEYS AT LAW

Don Seyfer • 303-422-5261 4501 Harlan St. • seyferauto.com

B & F TIRE CO. Mike Stites • 303-421-2063 6915 W. 38th Ave.

Thomas R. Ripp • 303-423-7131 Joseph H. Lusk • 303-423-7131

Ron Benson Linda McDonald 720-484-8647

Peter Damian Arguello • 303-463-5335 7220 West 38th Avenue

kwmcdonaldgroup.com

Tim Berland • 303-995-2806 ngazette.com

Tiﬀany & Eli Lucero • 720-789-1880 resurrectioncarpet.com

Posey Girl Floral Boutique Susannah Burley • 303-847-0124 poseygirlflowers.com

Come See What We Are About!

Sue Ball (303) 421-7311 sueball.com

Blu Hartkopp 303-588-6761 bluiron.com

neighborhood gazette – NOVEMBER 17–DECEMBER 18, 2014 – ngazette.com

Ask A LocAL MechAnic

urbAn perspective

Tips For Wheat Ridge Drivers In This Winter Freeze

I Am Thankful…

By Tom Schmuke

their own home. I would be glad to assist anyone with questions about how to qualify t’s on cold days like today that I am or how much assistance may be able. If you reminded of how thankful and blessed know of a neighbor who may benefit from this information, you should I am to have a warm house have them give me a call, or they to come home to each night. can call Brothers Redevelopment If it were up to my wife, it directly at 303-202-6340. would be a little less warm, as In addition to providing I am constantly stalking the residents with energy assistance thermostat, just checking to EOC is currently accepting make sure she didn’t turn it grant applications for ALL 5+ down again. She is just being unit multi-family buildings budget conscious, and I just that are centrally heated. If want to get warm. As innocent your building is five or more as it sounds, it is truly a cold units and individually heated, war between us. Zachary Urban please contact EOC for more Unfortunately, for a information on how to apply. number of our low-income Attention all landlords, I have begun to senior residents there are not enough resources to cover the costs of heating a work on a project with the Metro Denver home. I want our seniors and other low- Homeless Initiative and Colorado Housing income residents to know that there may be Connects to provide local landlords, help available beyond what the Low-income property managers and property owners Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) offers. training and resources regarding best Through a local non-profit organization practices around landlording, and property in Edgewater, Brothers Redevelopment, management do’s and don’ts, along with Inc., may help pay any outstanding energy practical fair housing training. If you are bill on behalf of a Denver metro area low- a property owner, landlord, or otherwise income resident and/or low-income senior. involved in real estate, give me a call at 720This program is made possible from a grant 252-5930 if you are interested in learning through Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC). more about this new program. In this season of Thanksgiving, I am This is an organization dedicated to the efficient delivery of cost-effective energy thankful for our community of Wheat Ridge. assistance, emergency furnace repair, I am also so very thankful that the election energy conservation and energy education season is behind us. I look forward to for low-income households to maintain their working with everyone in our community in the coming year to continue to make Wheat well-being and encourage self-sufficiency. I know it can be humbling to ask for Ridge a great place to live, work and play Zachary Urban can be reached at 720help, but I want to make sure no one in our community goes through this winter cold in 252-5930 or www.zacharyurban.com.

By zachary urban

instead of being at the mercy of whomever your dead car’s been towed to.

ConSider winTer TireS So-called “all-season” tires have been on the market for decades. Coupled with frontwheel-drive and anti-skid systems, they have allowed many folks to avoid mounting a true snow tires for the winter months. But there are two trends in tires you should be aware of: 1) Styling priorities have led to manufacturers fitting wider, low-profile tires on a variety of cars. Wide and low profile, on balance, makes a tire worse in the snow. Pressures to improve tire fuel economy have also worked against the snow utility of all-seasons. 2) Winter tires have improved their behavior from the era of knobby, loud “snows” that looked like they belonged on an army truck. New tread patterns and rubber compounds make them quieter on dry roads, yet even more effective on frozen stuff. Whatever you choose for tires, make sure there’s enough tread on them as you head into winter. Getting through snow requires the deepest grooves possible, and worn tires on which you might have skated by in summer will put you into the ditch in the white stuff.

The anTifreeze

wiperS for winTer

Here are two good reasons to get down there with the gauge and unscrew the valve caps as the weather cools: 1) Tires lose a pound of pressure for every drop of 10 degrees Fahrenheit. 2) An underinflated tire won’t “bite” through snow down to the pavement as well as one at pressure. It’s similar to hydroplaning on water – and just as dangerous. You may have heard the guidance to let air out of your tires for sand or snow to get more contact surface area. That only applies only if the surface is bottomlessly soft, like a beach or foot-deep, unplowed snow – not the mix of cleared road, ice and packed snow most of us encounter in daily driving. Don’t forget to put the valve caps back on (or, buy new ones) when you’re done. Letting in moisture, which then freezes, could let the valve core leak out air.

Check your wiper blades! They only have a lifespan of about a year. If your car doesn’t have the newer “beam blade” style wipers, consider a pair, especially for the winter months. The beam style blades don’t have an external spring to freeze up. When snow or other freezing precipitation threaten, make sure you turn off the wipers when you park so that the next time you turn on your car, the wiper motor’s not fighting to get frozen wipers moving. This can burn out the motor. I bet we replace at least 10 wipers per year! Some folks pop their wipers up so they’re not touching the windshield. This little trick will make it easier to scrape your windshield. Some folks believe this wears out the spring that keeps the blade on the glass. And some folks think it’s an affectation. I’ll leave it to you.

iS your BaTTery juiCed? Winter puts more stress on your battery, particularly if you park your car outdoors. Avoid the sinking feeling of hearing nothing when you hit the ignition with a proactive check of your battery and charging system now. Repair shops don’t usually charge very much to load-test your battery, and some car-parts stores will do it for free. If you find out your battery’s going south, you can replace it at your convenience,

This is many people’s first thought when it comes to winter car care. “Flush and fill” promotional signs abound at service stations as the weather cools. But chances are good your engine coolant (a better name for it) is just fine for the winter ahead. If you’ve followed your car’s service schedule regularly, give this pitch a pass. Most newer cars have been fitted with coolants that can last as long as five years or 150,000 miles. Read your owner’s manual. If you’ve missed a service interval or have another reason to doubt your coolant, go ahead and have it “flushed and filled.” Just make sure your mechanic uses a compatible coolant to refill your car. Some coolants, such as Prestone’s Extended Life, work for any car. If your car has moved to a much colder climate and you’re concerned that your coolant might not be up to the deep freeze, you can check its effectiveness with a simple, under-$10 tester from the car-parts store. Most good shops will test this for free. If they charge you to check perhaps you should re-think your local shop.

CheCk your Tire preSSure

MedicALLy speAking ‘Catching’ Infectious Diseases By jeff desjardin, Md

he change in seasons means that there is greater potential for “catching” influenza or other respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. The truth is we have infectious diseases all year long. However, being indoors and in close quarters – schools, dormitories and at home – raises our risks for passing them to each other. We are entering flu season, and the enterovirus has been particularly bad this year, especially for children. Common cold viruses, whooping cough, norovirus and other respiratory and digestive viruses can be expected to make the rounds in our community through spring. In addition, another more severe and deadly virus, Ebola, has finally landed on our shores, nearly 40 years after it first emerged in Africa. The few people in the U.S. who have been diagnosed with and treated for Ebola have gripped the nation’s media, and understandably raised public health concerns. While there is no reason to believe we will have a case of Ebola in our community, local health departments and healthcare providers, including Lutheran, have worked together diligently to prepare for such an event. It is important to understand how infectious diseases are transmitted from one person to another, and what steps can be taken to prevent them. Many common viruses are spread through droplets (in mucous or saliva) or potentially on surfaces. Avoiding close contact with sick people, washing your hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes (in your sleeve or a tissue, not your hand)

Survival kiT Everyone should have a space blanket in the car, tucked in the glove compartment or some other storage space in reach of the driver. The most complete survival kit in the world won’t do a bit of good if you’re upside down in a car you can’t get out of and the kit’s in the trunk. The shiny space blanket’s ability to keep you warm could be a lifesaver – and it takes up virtually no space and costs less than $10. Got a car care question? Email Tom Schmuke at tom@qualityautocare.com.

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

Thank You

for your confidence Cheri Jahn Andy Kerr Jessie Danielson Max Tyler We will continue to work for all of you.

affordable Uplighting system for rent

Ad courtesy of Pauline York

parties • weddings • events

Call 303-674-2952

We offer dog walking/running and pet care. Dependable, affordable and loving care in the comfort of your own home.

20% off one time visit

Call/text 203-907-9398 or allison@petfriendlycolorado.com

PIANO LESSONS

Fun-Key

allison hopkins dir h 720.515.4509

.com

laura litit 2 AD AND GET dir MENTION h

MUSIC

info@fun-keymusic.com

and keeping surfaces clean will prevent transmission of most viruses. If you are sick, you should stay home for 24 hours after your fever is gone except to obtain medical care. The best way to prevent the flu, which kills up to 50,000 Americans each year, is to get a flu vaccine. It’s especially important for those at risk for serious complications, such as people with lung or heart disease, weakened immune systems, those over age 65 and pregnant women, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a flu shot for anyone over the age of 6 months. If, despite your best efforts, you or a family member gets a common viral infection, you can treat the symptoms: • For colds, get plenty of rest and fluids • For older children and adults, use over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, throat lozenges, cough syrups or decongestants • For gastrointestinal viruses, get plenty of rest and fluids, and eat small amounts of food until symptoms resolve Check with your doctor if: • Symptoms persist more than three days • Symptoms include a fever of more than 102° F, severe headache, vomiting or abdominal pain, or difficulty breathing • If you or a family member is at greater risk of influenza-related complications, such as those under age 2, over age 65, pregnant or with some chronic medical conditions or a weakened immune system Dr. DesJardin is an infectious disease specialist with Lutheran Medical Center and Western Infectious Disease Consultants.

LEGITIMATE WORK AT HOME kim| Nosurry No Sales | No Investment Risk | Free Training & Website dir303-918-3359 h Contact Kim or fill out form at www.vitalhomebalance.com

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 18, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

Services tail • •R Re es t

ts •

10 minutes to Golden • 10 minutes to Denver

shop44th.com

Retail • Services • Restaurants

ra n

• Sh op Lo c

•

• Sh

shop44th.com oc

Shop Local

nts ra au

44 • al

•R

e t a il

• S er vic

R s•

Delicious Italian Food ! ! Delicious Italian Food 9190 W. 44th Ave. 303-420-1690 Steak & Eggs $6.99 All Day

Life Happens. GIA helps you insure and protect it

INCENZA’S V Italian Restaurant & Bakery $

FREE Home - Medicare - Business - Auto - HeaLth - Life - Classic Car Entrée Your second entrée

is Free, when you buy Group Insurance Analysts, Inc. (GIA) is an independent agency located in one entrée at regular price plus two drinks. Wheat Ridge. We specialize in individual insurance products, (Up To $15 Discount) as well as commercial and business insurance. DINE IN ONLY - FOOD TOTAL ONLY. Limit One Per Customer. With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11

When the time comes for you to renew your insurance policy, give us a call for a no obligation quote! 9195 West 44th Avenue • Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 303-423-0162, ext. 100 • www.e-gia.com

44TH AVE

GIA is an Official Registered Company of CBS4 and HaystackHelp.com

Representing Our Clients’ Best Interests Since 1984

OFF Fresh Baked Loaf of Bread

OR 1/2 lb Fresh Baked Cookies

’S VItalianINCENZA Restaurant & Bakery FREE

Appetite Stimulus Plan Entrée

entrée Family isYourFree,second when you buy one entrée at regular Pasta Bucket price plus two drinks.

$ 00 OFF

Fresh Baked Loaf of Bread

Appetite Stimulus Plan

Family Pasta Bucket

With coupon. Expires 2/15/2013 NG

Linguini for Five, 5 Meatballs or Italian Sausage & a loaf of our famous fresh bread OR 1/2 lb Fresh

Linguini for Five, (Up To $15 Discount) Baked Cookies 5 Meatballs or Italian DINE IN ONLY - FOOD TOTAL ONLY. Not valid with other offers. Limit One Per Customer. Limit One Per Customer. Sausage & a loaf of our With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11 With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11 famous fresh bread

1995

2001

1995

Not valid with other offers. Limit One Per Customer. With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11

We Buy Old Toys! Antiques • Collectibles Home Decor • Furniture

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK WheatBreakfast Ridge • 1/2 Mile 8AM West of Wadsworth 8000 W. 44th Ave. • 303-420-8400 - 11AMBlvd.• • Lunch 11AM - 3PM

★ OVER 25 GREAT DEALERS ★ 7341 W. 44th Ave. • 303-993-3868

Catering • Banquet Facilities • Carry Out

2001

Dinner 3PM - 9PM (Open Sundays until 8PM)

www.facebook.com/italianbakery

W. 44th Ave. • 303-420-8400 Wheat Ridge • 1/2 Mile West of Wadsworth Blvd.• 80008000 W. 44th Ave. • 303-420-8400 Open Daily 10-6 and Sun 11-5

Mid Mod Vintage 7174 W. 44th Ave. • Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

Large Selection of Mid Mod Vintage Furniture, Art & Home Decor Owners Chris & Katie, as in “Must Call Katie” on Craigslist

720-877-8535

Open Wednesday–Sunday • Noon-7pm Quality Used Paperback and Hardback Books Bought and Sold

CLEAN DONATIONS ACCEPTED

303-425-4960

We Buy Old Toys! Antiques • Collectibles Home Decor • Furniture ★ OVER 25 GREAT DEALERS ★ 7341 W. 44th Ave. • 303-993-3868 Open Daily 10-6 and Sun 11-5

K&D Landscape 303-425-8963

“Professional Landscaping with a Personal Touch” -Landscape Design -Hardscapes -Fire Pits -Water Features -Outdoor Lighting -Custom Stone Work -Outdoor Living Space -Retaining Walls

4320 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 www.kd-landscape.com • kdlandscape@msn.com

A & J TIME RENTALS INC. “WE RENT ALMOST EVERYTHING” 11401 W. 44th Ave. 303-423-7448

10840 W. 44th Ave. www.abookstop.com Mon-Sat 10am-6pm

Start here, go anywhere! HAIR DESIGN, INC

7110 W. 44th Ave. • 303-423-2727 designerslofthairdesign.com

6105 W. 44th Ave. 303-421-4151 Eric Land

F&H AUTO

UPHOLSTERY AUTO UPHOLSTERY & TRIM

Factory Original • Custom • Restoration Vinyl & Convertible Tops • Headliners Carpets or General Repairs

FURNITURE Residential/Commercial • RV Cushions • Bar Rails

10710 W. 44TH • 303-424-2971

L&L COINS STAMPS

5500 W. 44th Avenue (303) 422-8500

4385 Wadsworth Blvd. (303)650-0233 www.postnet.com/co150

9045 W. 44th Ave. 303-421-4100 pietraspizza.com

neighborhood gazette – NOVEMBER 17–DECEMBER 18, 2014 – ngazette.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING Wheat Ridge Meet the Artist Features Homegrown Music

For more information contact commissioner Michael Illo, mike.illo@yahoo.com, or call 720-628-3950.

Quickdraw Homegrown Music will be the featured performers on Thursday, Nov. 20, at 6 p.m. as the Wheat Ridge Meet the Artist series continues at Brunswick Zone Wheat Ridge, 9751 W. 49th Ave. The current band has been performing “original homegrown music with real Colorado bluegrass instrumentation,” for the last two years although the Homegrown sound has been around for nearly three decades,” said band member Kent Taylor. In addition to Taylor, who plays the mandolin, the band features founding member Randy Jones on bass, Sam Barnhill on guitar and Tyler Allen on banjo. Music is a passion for the band, which has produced three CDs over the years, but it doesn’t pay the bills, said Taylor. For that, find him in front of a class of middle schoolers, teaching art. Jones is a trucking broker, Barnhill is an electrical engineer, and Allen is an EMT. “We play because we love to play,” said Taylor, adding that Quickdraw has played in various local venues over the years, and the audience will likely recognize many of the band’s original tunes. The band was featured this summer during the Wheat Ridge Criterium. Brunswick Zone is now under new ownership and new management, and the event will be held in the bar and refreshment area of the bowling alley. All ages are welcome.

Funds Still Available for Home Safety, Mobility Repairs

for up to $5,000 to take care of important repairs that improve the home’s overall safety or address code-related concerns. To receive assistance, a homeowner must live in the home, which must be within municipal boundaries; meet specific income guidelines; and be a legal resident of the United States. Homes also must be in need of repairs that can be completed within program guidelines. Homeowners who do not meet the criteria to participateV1 in Help for Homes will be referred to an appropriate program that may be able to address their needs.

of senior community members, the district attorney, law enforcement and senior service providers who are concerned about the safety and security of seniors living in Jefferson and Gilpin counties. For more information or to confirm meeting status in the event of inclement weather, call 303-271-6970.

Have Shovel, Will Travel? Fund are still available for Jefferson County homeowners to apply forV1 grants to The City of Edgewater is trying to improve in-home accessibility, mobility organize a group of volunteers that can help or safety for income-qualified residents or a few of our senior citizens shovel snow individuals with a disability. For more information or to apply, call from their sidewalks. Through the hard Brothers Redevelopment is accepting Samantha at Brothers Redevelopment, work of Pauline York, the City has compiled applications and will be able to provide 303-685-4225, or visit www.brothersredea list of seniors that need some assistance. improvements for qualifying homeowners velopment.org. Seniors that need this assistance have to be in Wheat Ridge and Edgewater, as well as Peter Damian Arguello 303.463.5335 qualified through 303.463.5335 Senior Connections. We Mountain View, Golden and Lakeside. Peter Damian Arguello TRIAD Helps Seniors would like to find a number of volunteers While Brothers primarily seeks to fulfill 7220 West 38th Avenue · Wheat Ridge, 7220Colorado West 38th80033 Avenue · Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033 that live close to the seniors and then have its mission of helping homeowners who are Avoid Holiday Scams peter@peterdamianjewelry.com them assist with clearing the snow. low-income elderly and individuals with peter@peterdamianjewelry.com Nov. 25 If you are interested in volunteering, a disability live safely and comfortably in www.peterdamianjewelry.com www.peterdamianjewelry.com contact Dan Maples at 720-763-3012 or their homes, broader income guidelines will Cary Johnson of the District Attorney’s dmaples@edgewaterco.com. allow more people to qualify. Qualifying improvements will be Office will dole out tips for safe, scam-free completed free of charge while funds are shopping and charitable giving in “The Joy Food Benefits – Put available. Examples include tub and shower of Giving,” Tuesday, Nov. 25, 1:30 p.m., at Money In Your Pocket! County District Attorney’s grab-bar installation, V2accessible doorways, the Jefferson V3 V2 V3 wheelchair ramps and exterior house Conference Room located on 500 Jefferson Thirty-three-thousand seniors are using painting. Brothers Redevelopment also County Parkway, Golden. It is the season SNAP to buy fresh food at the grocery store. can oversee minor plumbing, electrical and of giving, both in purchasing gifts for our Are you? heating improvements for income-qualified friends and family and in giving to charities. There are many programs available Don’t let the joy of sharing overshadow the homeowners. to help seniors put money back in their scams that may be lurking. Leveraging federal Community pocket every month, including help with There will be no TRIAD meeting in Development Block Grant funds from your Medicare premium and prescription Jefferson County, Brothers coordinates December. costs. Colorado Senior Connections Wheat The free community meeting is the Help for Homes Program to improve Ridge hosts benefit screening events to help sponsored by TRIAD, a cooperative venture housing conditions. Homeowners7220 can apply West 38th Avenue 7220 West 38th Avenue www.PeterDamianJewelry.com www.PeterDamianJewelry Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033 Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033

Posey Girl Floral Boutique

Peter Damian Arguello 303.463.5335

peter@peterdamianjewelry.com

Divine Design Open House

Peter Damian Arguello Peter Damian Arguello Peter Damian Arguel 303.463.5335 303.463.5335 303.463.5335 Insurance that

peter@peterdamianjewelry.com peter@peterdamianjewelry.com

peter@peterdamianjewelry works for you!

peter damian pam clynke poseyCome girl make your own 7220 West 38th Avenue Clyncke www.PeterDamianJewelry.com agency 7220 West 38th Avenu www.PeterDamianJewelry.com FORMERLY1/24 CASH &H COLLECTABLESWheat Ridge, Colorado1/24 1/12 H Thanksgiving arrangement! 80033H303-895-9376 Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80 7220 West 38th Avenue 303.463.5335

Nov 25 and 26 | 6pm to 8pm

7210 W. 38th Ave. 303.847.0124 poseygirlflowers.com

GOLD DIAMONDS

WE BUY: COINS WATCHES

and more!

Corey & Pam Clyncke pclyncke@insuranceaai.com

Home – Auto -Business

SILVER ANTIQUES

Highland West Apartments

ClynCkeagenCy.Com

Happy Holidays! We will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve & Day & New Year’s Day

SPAGHETTI SPECIAL

6340 W. 38th Ave.west highland 1/12 H Apartment Living for

A gathering for mama saninos Peter Damian • place 303-463-5335 TUESDAY | WEDNESDAY | THURSDAY friends and family 7220 West 38th Avenue 1/12 H

Seniors 62 and up

5800 W. 38th Ave. 303-420-4756

303-424-8132 www.hwsca.com

mamasanninos.com Tue-Sat • 11am-8:30pm

TELLER ST. 1/8 H

$ .95

Dine In Only!

includes soup or salad one meatball or one sausage

7190 West 38th Avenue • 303-424-9273 TellerStreetGallery.com VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR CLASS SCHEDULES

PARTIES and PRIVATE GATHERINGS Now booking

SAVE $5.00 OFF MENTION THIS AD FOR

5 OFF ANY ADULT PAINTING CLASS

$ .00

Reservations Required

ngazette.com – NOVEMBER 17 – DECEMBER 18, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

WHAT’S HAPPENING seniors determine if they qualify. Trained volunteers assist seniors in completing the applications and answer questions about benefits. For more information, contact Alison Joucovsky at 720-248-4591 or ajoucovsky@ jewishfamilyservice.org.

Library Foundation’s Holiday Sales Support Local Libraries Savvy seasonal shoppers can get their holiday shopping done early and give the gift of books by taking advantage of used book sales in nearby Lakewood and Arvada. The Jefferson County Library Foundation is offering more than 2,500 gently used books for sale at the following dates and locations: weeks: • Belmar Library, 555 S Allison Parkway, Lakewood, on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 23, from noon to 4 p.m. • Standley Lake Library, 8485 Kipling St., Arvada, on Saturday, Dec. 13, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 14, from noon to 4 p.m. Book categories include history, biographies, cooking, children’s and teen’s, crafts and hobbies, art books, bestsellers and classics, travel, holiday, self-help, health, religion, philosophy, sports, reference, business and inspirational as well as DVDs, CDs and videos. Most books look brand new and prices generally range from $1 to $6 for children’s books and from $2.50 to $10 for adults’. Proceeds from these Library Foundation and Friends sales help benefit programs at Jefferson County Public Library.

Wheat Ridge Named 5th Best City For Retirement Wheat Ridge was named one of the nation’s best cities for retirement, according to a new ranking released Monday by Livability.com. The city was ranked fifth on Livability’s 2014 Best Places to Retire list – the only Colorado city to make the cut. Livability cited Wheat Ridge’s numerous bike trails, fitness centers, nearby mountains and ski resorts as important amenities for active retirees. Through its research, Livability found that Wheat Ridge was one of the healthiest cities it examined, with the highest percentage of residents who exercise out of all the cities on this list. The site also factored in Wheat Ridge’s support groups, abundant shopping opportunities, great restaurants, low crime and excellent health care into its ranking. Also working in Wheat Ridge’s favor is the homestead exemption Colorado provides to eligible residents 65 and older. In addition, Livability noted that Colorado residents 55 and over receive a generous retirement-income exclusion from state taxes. At 7.5 percent, Wheat Ridge’s sales tax is also lower than the national average of 9.6 percent. “We are thrilled to have Livability

recognize the high quality of life that we enjoy in Wheat Ridge,” said Wheat Ridge Mayor Joyce Jay. “For residents who want easy access to both an array of outdoor amenities and all Denver has to offer, we’re hard to beat.” To create its Best Places to Retire 2014 list, Livability considered a variety of factors for an even deeper look at how cities can accommodate older adults. In addition to overall quality of life factors, the site’s editors examined economic data, natural amenities, golf courses, weather, preventable hospital stays, walkability and much more. In addition, editors looked at Census data to find areas with heavy concentrations of seniors and businesses and services that cater to them. They analyzed data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to find areas with low unemployment for seniors and used data from Kiplinger to find cities located in states with retiree-friendly tax benefits. Livability is a website that explores what makes small to mid-sized cities great places to live, work, play and visit. For 25 years, Livability has worked with hundreds of communities developing content marketing programs showcasing their unique assets in order to help cities attract and retain residents and businesses. Today, Livability is one of the leading online resources used for researching communities. The site

For more information call 303-4035075, email friends@jeffcolibrary.org, or visit www.jeffcolibraryfoundation.org.

Steven M. Parks Master Goldsmith and Fine Jewelry Designer

Exclusive and Custom Designs in Gold & Platinum using beautiful diamonds and fine gemstones. Expert repairs by a master Craftsman.

Imagine jewelry designed just for you

steven aprks 1/8 V

Holiday Hours

Tues. – Thurs. 11am until 5 pm Fri. and Sat. 10am until 3pm Or by Appointment

5870 West 38th Avenue Wheat Ridge, CO 80212 303.233.2112

www.stevenparksgoldsmith.com facebook/steven parks master goldsmith and designer

A Denver & Colorado business Since 1983 Come visit Tobie!

WR 2020 1/2

publishes monthly and annual lists of cities, defining the best places to live in America and serves as a trusted partner to cities, businesses, and economic development organizations nationally.

Lutheran Medical Center Earns Recognition Lutheran Medical Center was recognized as a 2013 Top Performer on Key Quality Measures by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in the United States. The Wheat Ridge hospital was recognized as part of The Joint Commission’s 2014 annual report “America’s Hospitals: Improving Quality and Safety,” for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance for heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care categories. The Top Performer program recognizes hospitals for improving performance on evidence-based interventions that increase the chances of healthy outcomes for patients with certain conditions, including heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, surgical care, children’s asthma, stroke, venous thromboembolism and perinatal care, as well as for inpatient psychiatric services and immunizations.

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – NOVEMBER 17–DECEMBER 18, 2014 – ngazette.com

HOME, GARDEN & LIFESTYLE Being Thankful for the Holidays By Jeanne Nichols

I mod mood 1/6

t is true: the older you get, the faster time flies. I can hardly believe it’s holiday time again. Recently while out doing some errands I saw that some stores were already decked out in their holiday best, and I’m not talking about Thanksgiving. It seems paradoxical that Thanksgiving (a time for being grateful for all you have) should come just before we head into the gift-giving season in December. We all sit around the table at Thanksgiving and talk about how thankful we are to have this or that and then as soon as dinner is complete we draw names for the gift exchange or hand over our wish list for the coming month. Which brings us to gift giving; if you are finding it much more difficult to buy gifts for friends and family that are unique, personal and affordable, I’m sure you are not alone. I’ve put together a few gift ideas that will show the recipients of our gifts that we want to do more than just fulfill our gift obligation.

SERVICES INSTEAD OF OBJECTS Gifts don’t always need to be things. Try offering some thoughtful gesture or service. Who wouldn’t love to receive a “kitchen clean-up” coupon to be used after the holiday lunch or dinner, or a babysitting, dog walking or window-cleaning certiﬁcate? Of course if you have more money than time, gift certiﬁcates for professional services will surely be welcome.

LIVE PLANTS

mtn phoenix Call store for details 1/6

Floral shops are a great place to ﬁnd distinctive gifts such as live plants in unique

2014 Election Continued from page 1

speaks ortho 1/6

70 percent of registered Wheat Ridge voters voted in this election, which I think is a great expression of civic engagement,” Starker said. While the turnout was strong, the mood of the electorate this year was not with government and spending projects. “I believe the whole nation was in an antigovernment mood which impacted the way people voted,” said City Manager Goff. Wheat Ridge voters also said “no” to ballot issue 2B, which asked voters to approve a change in the street width of West 38th Avenue between Marshall and Upham streets in accordance with the 38th Avenue Corridor Redevelopment Plan. The question received 5,781 yes votes to 7,759 no votes. “The voters have spoken loud and clear,” said Monica Duran. “The voters’ message from the defeat of 2B is that the three-lane road-diet component of the 38th Avenue revitalization died on Nov. 4 at 7:01 p.m. Now is the time to develop a realistic and ﬁscally responsible plan for 38th Avenue with an inclusive process with all affected parties.” But Goff disagrees with that assessment. He said “no” vote is not being viewed as a referendum of sorts on the 38th Avenue

site wired 1/24 H

pots and arrangements; these gifts last longer than cut ﬂowers. Succulents are great and can be kept alive by those who do not have a green thumb. You may also ﬁnd special handmade and personalized cards and other gift items. Two great shops right in our neighborhood are Swiss Floral and Gift (44th Avenue) and Posey Girls (38th Avenue).

THRIFT STORE FINDS Gifts don’t have to be new and retro or vintage gifts can be fun, personal and very affordable. I’ve been able to pick up special things at antique and thrift stores throughout the year for a variety of friends and family members. Thrift stores are great places to ﬁnd one-of-a-kind gifts; some of my favorites are vintage barware, glasses or dishes. Wheat Ridge is full of stores – take a drive down 44th Avenue from Sheridan to Kipling or go by the Brass Armadillo.

STOCK UP One quick tip is to have a few inexpensive items, such as the live plants or thrift store ﬁnds, all wrapped up and ready to go when a gift-bearing friend drops by unexpectedly. With some easy gift-giving ideas, a bit of planning and preparation we can be thankful for this time of year and enjoy spending time with family and friends. 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.

plan. “There are no immediate plans to do anything different with 38th Avenue,” he said. “The City still has an adopted 38th Avenue Corridor Plan which is still relevant in my mind. 2B was only asking voters to approve a new street width.” This sentiment was echoed by Starker, who said “The 38th Avenue Corridor plan has been under discussion and development for the past 10-15 years and has many features and facets designed to revitalize this commercial district in our city.” While voters rejected the specific question to change the width of 38th Avenue, Starker said he expects the city to stay the course. “Question 2B was one facet of the plan that was not approved by the voters, but I don’t favor ‘throwing the baby out with the bathwater,’” he said. In other election news, Colorado Senate District 20 was one of many races to go down to the wire, with incumbent Cheri Jahn clinging to a small lead at press time over challenger Larry Queen. In a statement to the Neighborhood Gazette, Jahn said “I am very thankful to my volunteers and people who have supported me throughout this election. I am looking forward to seeing the final results of the election and excited to put the divisive politics of campaign season behind me.” Jessie Danielson won House District 24 with 17,362 votes while her opponent for the open seat Joe DeMott pulled in 15,200 votes. “I am proud the citizens of HD-24 have placed their trust in me,” Danielson said in statement to the Gazette. She reiterated themes from her campaign, adding that while Colorado’s economy is strong “there is a lot of work to be done to create the kind of good-paying jobs that will help build a stronger and more secure Colorado middle class.” In Edgewater, two questions pertaining to clarification of the city charter passed. One measure will eliminate a typo and the other moves the responsibilities of a charter review and compliance commission to the city council. This essentially streamlines the process for the city council.