Neighborhood Gazette February 2013 by Neighborhood Gazette

Heart Healthy Information see page 3

A Noble Yet Overlooked Trait see page 5

Neighborhood WHEAT RIDGE

CA$H Mob Put your dollars to work see pages 4, 7 & 8

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EDGEWATER

What’s Brewing in Wheat Ridge? Craft Beer and Craft Breweries BY CYNDY BEAL

o west young man—that’s where the good beer is. Craft breweries are expanding westward and settling into Wheat Ridge. With one brewery – Rickoli’s – open in Wheat Ridge and another – Colorado Plus Liquid Art Works Inc. (CPL) – on its way, it seems the wheat in the city’s name is developing an association with another grain, barley, one of the main ingredients in beer. Wheat Ridge is right in step with the rest of the state. One of the strongest growth industries nationwide and especially in Colorado has been and continues to be craft breweries, once called microbreweries. Colorado has more than 161 licensed craft breweries (97 brewpubs, 64 manufacturer breweries) and more than 60 breweries in planning, according to the Colorado Brewer’s Guild Fact Sheet from August 2012. These numbers all continue to rise. Craft beer is defined as small, annual production of 6 million barrels of beer or less, independent and traditional, per the Brewers Association.

Brewery Rickoli’s Rickoli’s is the first brewery known to have a Wheat Ridge locale. They opened their doors in November at 4335 Wadsworth Blvd., just south of 44th and Wadsworth, on the west side of the street. From the lease signing, it took about six months to open for customers. Rickoli’s has three co-owners: Rick Abitbol, his wife, Jaqua, and Deb Zanker. Rick is Rickoli’s brewmaster. His beers have won many awards, as evidenced by the ribbons on the wall in Rickoli’s. He won his first award with his cream ale, M.E.H., for “most excellent homebrew,” which won first place in its category at the Colorado State

Fair in 2001 and nearly won first place overall. “It’s not rocket science unless you want it to be,” said Abitbol of craft brewing. Abitbol brews one, 15-gallon keg at a time, using the same brewing system for five years. The process, from start to finish, takes two to three weeks for a ready-to-serve beer. Abitbol started brewing his own beer about 15 years-ago. A musician, his interest in brewing beer began when he was performing at the old Walnut Brewery, now known as Rock Bottom Brewery, on the 16th Street Mall. This interest, he said, quickly became an obsession. He purchased a home-brewing kit and the book The Complete Joy of Homebrewing. Abitbol and his wife smiled about his first homebrews. He called it “nasty stuff ” that he subsequently poured out. However, he continued to cultivate his brewing skills, and the end products improved. He lost interest in the Computer Rental Company he owned. For two years, he drove to Pueblo every weekend, learning the craft at Shamrock Brewing. His first paying job as a brewer was at Golden City Brewery in Golden. Abitbol has worked at some of the best-known local small breweries in the Denver area, such as the Denver Chophouse, Rock Bottom Brewery for close to eight years in Park Meadows, and briefly at Renegade Brewing. Rickoli’s has eight house beers on tap, with rotations of other beers that bring the total to around a dozen. All beers are gluten reduced, except wheat beers. The beers are all ales and range from 4.3 percent to nearly 10 percent ABV (alcohol by volume). There are two house-made sodas, root beer and black cherry. Rickoli’s is open seven days a week. They don’t have a full kitchen, but offer snacks such as pretzels by Baker Street. Rickoli’s co-owner Zanker makes mustards for the pretzels. Customers also may bring their own

LOVELY LIBATION: Rick Abitbol, co-owner and master brewer of Rickoli’s on Wadsworth, pours a glass of his award-winning cream ale fresh from the tap. Rickoli’s opened their doors for business in November, making history as the first-ever brewery in Wheat Ridge. Photo by Cyndy Beal.

WEST RAIL’S 6TH AVENUE BRIDGE LIGHTS UP as rtd counts down to the new light rail line’s April 26 opening. The rails run south of Wheat Ridge and Edgewater, but will affect bus service: Applewood Call-n-Ride will replace service on Route 32 west of Exempla Lutheran Hospital, and minor schedule adjustments are proposed for routes 38 and 44. Visit http://www. rtd-denver.com/proposedservicechanges-westrail.shtml for details. The Gold Line, an 11.2-mile commuter rail line that will connect Denver Union Station to Wheat Ridge, is under construction and expected to open in 2016. Photo by Sarah DiTullio. food in with them or have food delivered. Rickoli’s has agreements with ipie and Salsa’s (Salsa’s only in the morning for breakfast burritos). Well-behaved dogs are welcome. Glass 64-ounce “growlers” are available for purchase, to fill with beer or soda to take home and bring back to refill. Abitbol wants Rickoli’s to become a “brewers brewery,” a place where craft and home brewers gather. Abitbol’s future plans include starting a West Side beer tour and a beer festival this summer or fall.

Colorado Plus Liquid Art Works, Inc. A second Wheat Ridge brewpub, expected to open in March, is Colorado Plus Liquid Art Works. Like many craft brewers and breweries, the owners of Rickoli’s and CPL know and

support one another. Craft breweries often buy or trade barley, hops and yeast with one another. “It’s more of a brotherhood than competition,” said CPL co-owner Jesse Duplessis, regarding the mindset of craft brewers and breweries. CPL is expected to open by the end of March in the old Valente’s building at 6995 W. 38th Ave., on the north side of the street. There are four co-owners: Eugene Kahng, Duplessis, Adam Draeger and Doug Sattem. The owners’ backgrounds and experience are as diverse as the Colorado beer they will serve. Kahng is the former owner of Vern’s Liquors at 44th and Wadsworth. Duplessis’ experience is in heating and plumbing. Draeger is the head brewer at Yak and Yeti in Arvada. Sattem’s experience is in restaurants Continued on page 2

A FOAM-SOME FOURSOME: of craft brewer enthusiasts pose together at Right Coast Pizza (left to right): Doug Sattem, Adam Draeger, Eugene Kahng and Jesse Duplessis. The four coown Colorado Plus Liquid Art Works, Inc., a brewpub, brewery and restaurant scheduled to open in the old Valente’s building on 38th Avenue before the end of March. Photo by Cyndy Beal.

Page 2

Neighborhood Gazette

Tim Berland 303-995-2806 e-mail: editor@ngazette.com www.ngazette.com Mailing address: 4385 Wadsworth Blvd., #140, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Publication date is the 15th of each month. Advertising: Vicki Ottoson 303-777-6144 or Tim Berland 303-995-2806 Copy Editing/Proofreading: J. Patrick O’Leary, Cyndy Beal & Sarah DiTullio © FEbrUAry 2013 All rights reserved. the publishers assume no responsibility for representations, claims or opinions by any advertising or article in this publication.

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Fireplace Chat Save Money And Do It Right he needed, he didn’t know but wanted to adapt to the old venting he had with the unit. I got the model number and I recognized that anuary was a tough month for us, because it was an old unit so I called the manufacturer we are getting a lot of do-it-yourself fireplace installers trying to save money. and found out that it did indeed take specific venting which they did not make anymore. I It’s been tough because we’ve had to tell them they can’t do what they want to do. Or we informed him that the venting was no longer available. He wasn’t angry but I got the feeling will not sell them their venting because its that he was going to make that wrong and we won’t put them one work no matter what I or the at risk for danger. I understand manufacturer said. I just hope he that everybody is on a budget and doesn’t hurt himself or his family. sometimes it sounds great to buy Fireplaces are great to have. from the internet or from family They are warm, cozy and they can and friends; but it really isn’t. save you money on your energy The other day a customer and bill and they bring up the value his wife came in to buy venting of your home. My advise is that for his beautiful old used wood if you’re thinking about buying a burning stove, which is not legal fireplace; save your money and do to use. He wanted a seven inch Rose Florez it right. Buy a legal certified EPA pipe to adapt to the eight inch opening of his old stove. He told me that there wood burning fireplace that you can burn was some seven inch pipe left in the house by everyday and get it installed by a qualified the previous owner and wanted to use it. I installer. Or, if you’re thinking about a gas explained to him that he could not adapt to a fireplace, come in and talk to us. We’ll give smaller venting because it would bottle neck you our suggestions of what fireplaces would work for you and your home. the exhaust. He insisted that I sell him what Be safe, ask yourself why are people selling he wanted and he told me if not that a Big Box store would order it for him. I refused things on the internet cheap? Something is and informed him that most of the Big Box wrong and don’t get caught up in it. If you’re on a budget and trying to save for this kind stores are there to sell what the customers of project – come in and talk to us about our want and really aren’t knowledgeable in this field. I advised him to get a new stove that layaway plan. Prices go up throughout the is legal to use. Just this morning another year and if you layaway a fireplace it will tie in the price. customer called wanting venting for a 16 year Stay warm and safe.. old gas fireplace which heGuaranteed.” had taken it out of “Great Tenants rose Florez can be reached at Fireplace outlet another home and was going to install it in his home. 720-839-7482 I asked him what kind of venting Supply 4745 West 38th Avenue 303-477-5447 BY ROSE FLOREZ

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BEER AT A GLANCE • Beer’s main ingredients are malted barley (but can be wheat or rye), hops, yeast and water. • Hops types include bittering and aroma. • IBU (International Bittering Unit) defines how “hoppy” (as in hops) a beer is: the higher the number, the more hoppy or bitter the beer. One exception is barley wine (a style of beer), which typically has high IBU numbers but is not bitter. • Beer colors range from light (wheat and pilsner) to dark (porter and stout). Reds fall in between. • The two main types of beer are ale, which is top fermented, and lager, which is bottom fermented.

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and accounting. Kahng and Duplessis have known one another since attending Lakewood High School together. “We want to educate people about Colorado craft beer,” Kahng said of CPL’s main missions and goals. CPL will offer 56 Colorado beers on tap, four house-brewed beers, a full bar and a full menu. They will be open seven days a week, initially using only the ground floor of the building. Entrees won’t exceed $15.00. The food will have a farm-to-table emphasis, in keeping with CPL’s local focus. Innovation and creativity are two of the mainstays in craft breweries. “There’s no reason to make a Fat Tire clone,” said Draeger, CPL’s head brewer, regarding the types of beer that will be available at CPL.

CPL bought the 7,500-square-foot 1940s building in October. The construction process has had its surprises and unexpected costs, which include a new roof, new electrical and new mechanical, as well as aesthetic and design changes inside and out. CPL recently submitted an application to the city of Wheat Ridge for the city’s Enhanced Sales Tax Incentive Program (ESTIP), a rebate program that allows for 50 percent of future sales taxes for businesses to be returned to the business, up to a set amount of money or time, whichever comes first. In the case of CPL, Wheat Ridge City Council approved their application for a period of five years or $76,000. The funds must be used for additional building or property improvements. For additional information: rickoli’s: www.breweryrickoli.com CPL: Facebook.com/colorado.plus beer drinkers Guide to Colorado: www.beerdrinkersguidetocolorado.com

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GETTING THE BEER OUT • CO2 tap: Uses pressurized carbon dioxide to push beer from the keg to the tap and adds carbonation • Nitro tap: Uses pressurized nitrogen to push beer from the keg and adds more carbonation than CO2 • Beer engine: A hand pump, used with cask beer, what many call “real” ale. The pressure comes from the active yeast.

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Page 3

Under The Dome What’s Up In The Legislature? technology, engineering and math. Gun Safety: This major concern for Coloradans will lead to proposed legislation he 2013 Legislative Session is well addressing issues such as universal background under way and it is an exciting time! The checks, limiting ammunition magazine size, capitol pulses from the tremendous beat better mental health treatment for young of Coloradans making change to improve adults and others with mental disorders, and the lives of everyone in our state. I am proud other reasonable and responsible matters for to be representing House District 24 and public safety. Education: Legislation will serve the residents of Wheat be introduced to address stable Ridge, Edgewater, and Golden. funding for K-12 and higher Together we can continue to education. We cannot rely on strengthen our community and emergency 3A and 3B mill levy take action to improve the lives and bond votes every few years of people from every generation. for stable education, nor should I had the pleasure of meeting we raise college tuition 10 percent many of you this fall on the every year, pricing many highly campaign trail. Thank you for qualified students out of a college sharing with me your priorities education. and concerns! I bring your hopes Sue Schafer Health & Wellness: Priorities and dreams with me to the legislature, and they will inform the decisions will include protecting the Colorado Health Benefit Exchange, offering Medicaid I make on each bill. Here is a preview of the legislation I expansion, and incentivizing prevention efforts to reduce health care costs. expect to be debated: Protecting the Environment: We will Jobs: Our state’s job growth and economy outperformed the national average adopt reasonable rules to balance hydraulic in 2012, and we are ready to expand at an fracturing (fracking) with public and even healthier pace in 2013. Bills introduced environmental safety. Civil Unions: A bill legalizing civil unions will be on creating jobs, i.e., funding for small business development centers; highway between two unmarried adults will likely be and bridge construction; and connecting passed in 2013. I welcome your thoughts. the unemployed and underemployed with advanced technical training. Job sectors State Representative Sue Shafer can be reached projected for strong job demand are health at 303-866-5522 or sue.schafer.house@state. professions, K-12 education, and jobs co.us. Her web site is www.sueschafer.com. requiring strong preparation in science, BY SUE SCHAFER State Representative, House District 24

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How does a heart scan work? Cardiac calcium scoring uses computed eart disease is still the No. 1 killer of both tomography, or a CT scan, which combines men and women. This is an appalling special X-ray equipment with sophisticated statistic because, when found early, computers to take a series of pictures of heart disease can be treated and oftentimes the arteries surrounding the heart. These reversed. A heart-healthy diet, physical detailed images are then examined by both a activity and awareness of both radiologist and cardiologist. genetic and lifestyle risk factors At Exempla Lutheran play a critical role in controlling Medical Center we have a stateand managing heart disease. of-the-art imaging system that Additionally, there is an makes imaging fast and easy for important screening tool that is patients, and provides excellent available to benefit those who may image quality while using a lowbe at risk and not know it. The dose technology that decreases cardiac calcium-score screening, radiation exposure by 40 to 60 or heart scan, is a noninvasive test percent as compared to some used to detect calcium deposits in systems. Jerry Miklin, MD the coronary arteries. Coronary arteries are the vessels that Who should consider getting the test? supply oxygen-containing blood to the heart You should consider having a cardiac muscle. Calcified plaque results when there calcium screening if you have more than one is a buildup of cholesterol in the artery. Over of the following risk factors: time, the plaque buildup can narrow the Family history of coronary disease, arteries and restrict blood flow to the heart. particularly if family members developed the The result may be chest pain, called disease at a young age angina or a heart attack. One of the major • Diabetes benefits of a cardiac calcium screen is that it • Smoking can help reveal heart disease in its early stages, • Elevated cholesterol levels possibly even years before symptoms emerge. • Elevated blood pressure Plaque in the arteries is often called a silent • Overweight killer because often there are no symptoms or Active individuals over the age of 40 who obvious signs that that the buildup is about to want to feel confident they are safe to exercise cause a heart attack. I recently saw a patient The test is fast, pain-free and safe – similar who was asymptomatic of heart disease. He to getting an X-ray. Yet the results can help worked out regularly and was a trim, healthy save your life. guy. He had a cardiac calcium screening that Dr. Jerry Miklin is an interventional was markedly abnormal. Further testing cardiologist with Exempla Rocky Mountain showed that two of his three coronary arteries Cardiovascular Associates and medical director were totally blocked. I was able to place stents of Catheter Lab Services at Exempla Lutheran to reopen those arteries. The calcium screening Medical Center. saved him from having a heart attack.

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Page 4

Wheat Ridge City News Code Enforcement Protects Everyone For Health & Happiness The health of your pet can also be improved, because having this surgery can prevent certain cancers. Also, you can avoid the high cost of caring for a litter of puppies or kittens—and finding good homes for all of them. Lastly, spaying and neutering can help modify some behaviors such as spraying and marking. This service is customer-friendly and easy. Simply drop your pet off in the morning and pick them up later that same day. Note that it is based on a first-come, first-served basis and some restrictions may apply such as size (due to confinements of the surgical unit). The cost is only $20.00 for cats and $60.00 for dogs. For your convenience, vaccinations, microchips and pet licensing can also be done at the same time for an additional fee. To learn more and to find out if an upcoming clinic will be in your neighborhood, visit www.FoothillsAnimalShelter.org/SimpleFix or call 720-407-5215. Jennifer Strickland can be reached at 720407-5224 or jstrickland@fas4pets.org.

BY JENNIFER STRICKLAND

elp your pet live a happy and healthy life while controlling pet overpopulation. Foothills Animal Shelter makes it easy to spay and neuter your pet. Thanks to the support from the Animal Assistance Foundation, a mobile surgical unit provides affordable spay and neuter procedures for cats and dogs in a variety of convenient locations throughout the community. Foothills Animal Shelter has coordinated this program in partnership with Jefferson County Animal Control, Westminster Animal Management and Wheat Ridge Animal Control. You may ask why it is important to spay and neuter your pet. It will definitely help with controlling pet overpopulation. Last year, in the United States, it was estimated that 5-7 million pets were taken to animal shelters. This issue is not just national, but also local. Foothills Animal Shelter took in nearly 8,000 animals in Golden.

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Recent Real Estate Statistics Compiled by Jessica Klingsporn, your Castle real Estate, as reported by Metrolist

YOUNGFIELD TO KIPLING Address

Style

Beds

Bath

SqFt

Sold Price

% Ask

DOM

12498 W 35th Ave

Bi-Level

2,120

$203,000

100%

3130 Wright St

Ranch/1 Story

1,528

$251,000

93%

215

12500 W 32nd Ave

Two Story w/Bsmt

2,137

$369,950

100%

3220 Parfet St

Two Story w/Bsmt

2,671

$416,000

95%

11658 W 39th Pl

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

2,468

$418,000

95%

146

$331,590

97%

123

Averages

KIPLING TO WADSWORTH Address

Style

Beds

Bath

Sqft

Sold Price

% Ask

DOM

9551 W 38th Ave

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

1,147

$186,000

93%

8653 W 44th Pl

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

1,383

$269,000

98%

4525 Carr St

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

1,376

$337,750

98%

4350 Dover St

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

1,847

$438,500

95%

$307,813

96%

Averages

graffiti, speeding vehicles, hoarding, excessive weeds, trash and junk complaints. Of the 75 calls for service, I was the reporting party in 16. Warnings were given hat I have heard from you, my in 54 of the 75 calls, and in only three cases neighbors, is that you desire citations were issued to the property owners. and expect peaceful and safe I believe the limited number of citations can neighborhoods in Wheat Ridge. We all expect neighborly behavior from our residents, be attributed to the success of the warning/ educational approach the business owners and property Community Services Team uses owners. in working with property owners As you know, many of to gain compliance with the code our neighborhoods have been within 10 days. negatively affected over the past Again, elected officials often several years by a few problem receive concerns from citizens residents. Fortunately, most of related to code enforcement issues. the issues have recently been As an elected official, I am often corrected by the Wheat Ridge asked by citizens throughout Police Department, the Wheat the community to report code Ridge Community Services Jerry DiTullio violations on their behalf because Team (code enforcement) and by landlords who have evicted offending tenants. they wish to remain anonymous. I believe my actions as your mayor and as a citizen of this I have served you as an elected official community to be reasonable and effective in for 17-plus years and I have lived in my moving the city’s revitalization efforts forward. neighborhood for 30 years. As your mayor and As your mayor and a resident of the city, as your neighbor, some of you have contacted I travel throughout the community on a daily me about issues in your neighborhood basis and I am excited to see the positive and asked me to contact the police or changes taking place as a result of the city’s code enforcement on your behalf to avoid retribution by the offending party. Recently, proactive code enforcement efforts. Let’s work together to keep our neighborhoods I had the opportunity to take advantage of safe, peaceful and clean. Meet and talk Jefferson County Mediation Services to correct some issues in my neighborhood. with your neighbors and work together to solve problems. If you see trash in your This is a free service that allows parties neighborhood or on your property, please (two neighbors for example) to meet with pick it up. If you have a neighbor who is a professional facilitator. The parties and disabled or a senior, ask them if they need the facilitator are able to discuss the issues some assistance. And, most of all, please do in a neutral setting and will hopefully come not speed. It is the neighborly thing to do! together to find a solution. If you would like As always, if you have an emergency please more information about this program, please dial 911. In the case of a code enforcement contact me at my number below or contact complaint, please call the non-emergency the police department. dispatch number, 303-237-2220. I, along with some members of city Please feel free to contact me with council, have taken a proactive approach to the questions or comments. Happy New Year! education of citizens regarding enforcement Wheat ridge Mayor Jerry ditullio can be of the Wheat Ridge Municipal Nuisance reached by calling city hall, 303-235-2800. Code. These codes are a collection of local laws approved by city council and enforced by the Community Services Team, a unit of Join us for a CA$H MOB! non-sworn staff committed to enforcing safe, Feb. 19th • 7am-3pm healthy and attractive living conditions for 10% Off for all CA$H payment$ all residents of the city. This code is intended to benefit all citizens while enhancing the safety, quality of life and attractiveness of our neighborhoods. Chains For example, in reviewing documentation Are For provided by the police department’s Records Bicycles Management System, calls for service data in Not Coffe e my neighborhood focusing on the 3200-3300 Shops block of Lamar, Marshall, Newland and Otis 7300 W. 38th ave. 303-931-2702 streets from Jan. 1, 2009, to March 21, 2012, indicated 75 calls for service consisting mostly Mon-Sat 7:00am-3:00pm • Sun 9:00am-2:00pm of chronic barking dogs, disturbing the peace, BY JERRY DITULLIO Mayor of Wheat ridge

The Dragon Fly

WADSWORTH TO SHERIDAN Address

Style

Beds

Bath

Sqft

Sold Price

% Ask

DOM

2918 Ames St

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

732

$132,500

95%

6705 W 45th Ave

Ranch/1 Story

1,064

$162,500

100%

125

3002 Eaton St

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

900

$196,000

98%

114

4390 Newland St

Ranch/1 Story

1,900

$197,000

100%

2715 Fenton St

Ranch/1 Story

1,196

$204,900

98%

4140 Marshall St

Tri-Level

1,732

$210,000

96%

171

2715 Lamar St

Ranch/1 Story

1,177

$234,000

94%

3900 Eaton St

Ranch/1 Story w/Bsmt

1,190

$264,800

88%

3135 Saulsbury St

Story and 1/2 w/Bsmt

1,907

$281,000

96%

113

2946 Benton St

Two Story w/Bsmt

1,221

Averages

$333,000

98%

$221,570

96%

ACUPUNCTURE

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Edgewater City News

Council Corner

Our Community – It’s What Makes Us Different

Self Care: A Noble Yet Overlooked Trait

years back, citizens recognized the need for a change in our form of government. Again, as a community we stepped up, changed our charter, and hired our first city manager. very day we all use services of our city Edgewater offers a unique lifestyle valued government without much thought. by all of us. We are close to downtown, And yet, somehow, we all know that the very walk-able, and enjoy great diversity City of Edgewater is different. The State with our population. Edgewater’s new of Colorado has a tradition of supporting 2013 Comprehensive Plan has strong local control and “home cemented our desire to maintaining rule” governments. Home that small-town feel. The Comp rule maximizes flexibility and Plan represents the vision of our discretion in municipal finance, community’s future; a unique and implementation of local policy cohesive community that we are and the delivery of public proud to call Edgewater. services. Edgewater is a home I would like to encourage rule city, and yes we are different all of you to visit www. from Denver, or Lakewood, or supportedgewaterschools.org to any other city. What makes us learn how we can invest in the different? Community. Bonnie McNulty next generation of Edgewater. In a social context, the word An easy way to enhance and strengthen our “community” refers to a group of people who share things like locality, government, community is to check out www.nextdoor. com. To follow activities offered through our historical heritage and values. The identity Parks and Recreation department please go to and cohesiveness of a community can be Edgewater’s new website and search for “Parks affected by a variety of conditions shared by the members of the community. Beliefs, and Rec Programs” at www.edgewaterco.com. And while you are on the city’s home page needs, risks, resources and preferences be sure to click on “E911/Code Red” to sign all play important roles in defining our up for emergency notifications through the community. county’s reverse 911 system. In Edgewater we believe in each other Speaking of 911 – during the writing of and we care about what is happening around this article, Nelson, my husband of 52 years, town. We check on our neighbors and help suffered a heart attack. Thank goodness for out when needed. We believe in being a part our emergency responders. I would like to of our community through our participation thank Wheat Ridge Fire Protection District in organizations like the Edgewater and Pridemark for their professional services. Optimist’s Club, Greater Edgewater My son could hardly believe how quickly they Community Connections, City Boards and responded to our 911 call. In addition I’d like Commissions, community gardens, and our to thank my neighbors, friends, and city staff schools, just to name a few. Everyone who for all their support, thoughts and prayers. attended the Edgewater Fire Department’s Nelson at this time is doing very well. Thanks Last Blast experienced, first hand, the deep again. sense of community represented by nearly Remember I am available for coffee every 100 years of our volunteer firefighters and Wednesday at the Edgewater Coffee Shop, their families. 5224 W. 25th Ave., from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. I As a community we all share many will buy your coffee! If this time doesn’t work of the same needs and risks. We as a small for you please call and I’ll set another time city, surrounded by larger ones, have unique and place. challenges when it comes to providing Edgewater Mayor Bonnie McNulty can public safety and city services. Recently, the be reached at 303-233-6216 or bjmcnulty2@ community has come together to implement comcast.net. improved fire protection and recycling. A few BY BONNIE MCNULTY Mayor of Edgewater

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care for others when your foundation is starting to lean and crack. It is a precarious balance that we share in all endeavors. This balance is omnipresent in the individual and family with once knew a guy who lived down the street the community, and the relationship between that had a garage full of tools. I believe his community and the larger spheres of human name was Henry, and he had a tool for every interaction. The further our relationships job. Henry was the nicest man, lending his extend, the less personalized they become. tools to all who asked. His only request was the This concept is clearly present return of the tools when the work in the United States’ interaction was done. Henry was happy that on the global stage. We have he could help others, and life was given ourselves, time and again, good. Over time, Henry noticed to the pressing needs of global his tools came back much slower importance.We are the champions than before, and some not at all. of human dignity, of human rights, Henry began to track down and the free exercise of individual his tools and learned some folk and collective self-determination. needed his help, so he helped This noble simplicity has been them. And time went on. One day, challenged over time, and our Henry returned home and noticed Kris Teegardin foundation is starting to lean. If his porch was slanting. Henry we as a country cannot take care of ourselves, never noticed it before and wondered when how can we advance the ideals we so cherish? the problem started. Upon inspection, Henry We exist in an increasingly shrinking learned his foundation was crumbling. Henry went to his garage and found only two tools. world, and there are forces out of our control. We must exercise self-care and maintain The eternal optimist, Henry knew he could balance to meet the challenges of the 21st count on others. As he went out to collect his century. There are many feathers to this bird, tools and ask for help, he discovered others still but I know where we can start: By bringing it needed his tools and could not help until their home! projects were finished. Henry understood and One day Henry returned home to find went home hoping his house would not sink everybody he has helped working on his into the ground. And time went on. foundation. Henry was so filled with emotion Henry was so selfless and cared so much; he sought to alleviate the plight of others. This, that he cried tears of joy. And those tears were the seeds for the next generation to sow. above all, is the noblest trait of our human Edgewater Councilman Kris Teegardin can experience. But Henry forgot to care for be reached at 720-568-0461 or kteegardin@ himself, as the foundation showed. edgewaterco.com. Self-care is also a noble trait, for you cannot BY KRIS TEEGARDIN Edgewater City Council

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What’s Happening Fresh Food Co-ops Offer Eggs and Produce Five Fridges Farm is starting their second-annual chicken cooperative in March. The chicken care-taking duties are divided among the members on a rotating schedule at Five Fridges Farm. Cost per an eight-month working share ranges from $42 to $58. Each share equals one dozen eggs. Clear Creek organics is signing up members for their community supported agriculture (CSA) program. There is no work requirement, only financial support to receive fresh produce weekly from the farm. Cost for the June to mid-October growing season ranges from $500 to $700. For information on joining Five Fridges Farm’s chicken cooperative, email Five Fridges Farm at info@5fridgesfarm.com or visit www.5fridgesfarm. com. For information on Clear Creek organics’ Community Supported Agriculture program, contact Stephen Cochenour at clearcreekorganics@gmail. com or 720-430-6404; or visit clearcreekorganics.org.

Teller Street Gallery Hosts Lucie Kiwimagi For Meet the Artist Event Abstract artist Lucie Kiwimagi is the featured artist at this month’s “Meet the Artist” event, Thursday, Feb. 21, 5:30-7 p.m., at Teller Street Gallery and Studios, 7190 W. 38th Ave.

WHEAT STALKS NEAR CROWN HILL LAKE defy winter: Wheat ridge received a mere .6 inch of snowfall in the first half of February, according to the National Weather Service. PHoto by SArAH ditULLio. The third Thursday event, organized by the Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission, brings community residents, businesses and artists together in an informal setting to explore the creative process. Kiwimagi has a bachelor’s degree in art history from the University of Arizona and a master’s in counseling psychology and art therapy from the Naropa Institute. She studied drawing and painting at the Silvermine Guild, the Mystic Art Association, and Central Connecticut State University, among other institutions. She has shown her work at the Art Students League of Denver

44th Avenue Merchants Get Boost From Postcards, New Website Shop44th.com has been launched as a website and postcard promotion to drive dollars to the retail, service and dining establishments residing on the historic and diverse 4-mile-long 44th Avenue in Wheat Ridge. “It was almost two years ago, after noticing that 44th was never mentioned in any marketing for Wheat Ridge, that I took it upon myself to come up with a simple and cost-effective way to promote all of the businesses on 44th,” says Heidi Haas-Sheard, owner of Swiss Flower and Gift Cottage. The retailer has been located just east of Kipling on 44th Avenue since 1969. Haas-Sheard designed and distributed the Shop44th postcards to businesses on 44th, with the simple goal of educating shoppers about the businesses that have thrived for decades on the avenue. The postcard features a map of 44th Avenue from Ward Road on the west all the way to Harlan Street on the east. It gives a quick reference to surrounding businesses on 44th Avenue. With the help of Tim Berland of the Neighborhood Gazette, Haas-Sheard developed shop44th.com, a website providing the public with quick access to information about the businesses on 44th Avenue and their individual websites. “My initial investment of $1,800 covered the printing of the postcards and the design of the website,” said Haas-Sheard. She went on to say, “I was happy the city saw a value in my project and helped reimburse for the postcards and part of the web design. I was excited the city also assisted in continuing the branding of shop44th.com by adding the logo to the bus shelters on 44th.” To learn more about the businesses on 44th Avenue or to add your business to the website, log onto www.shop44th.com or contact Haas-Sheard at Swiss Flower and Gift Cottage 303-424-7421.

and the Pastel Society of Colorado. “My artwork is usually unplanned, and spontaneously conceived. I borrow from the organic details and rhythms of nature, and am fascinated by how these elements are metaphors for parts of the self. Tempera and chalk pastel are my preferred media; I love them because they are gritty and soft, pure and vibrant,” says Kiwimagi. “Recently, my main mode of working is to deconstruct stored art works that are without resolve and collage them into mixed-media pieces that synthesize elements of past and future.” Teller Street Gallery and Studio, owned by Mandy and Joe Fulton, features experienced, professional, and up-andcoming artists in from all around Colorado. The 6,000-square-foot art gallery, which opened in the summer of 2012, also features a wine bar and numerous art classes using a variety of media. “Meet the Artist” with Lucie Kiwimagi takes place, thursday, Feb. 21, 5:30-7 p.m., at teller Street Gallery and Studios, 7190 W. 38th Ave. For more information on the Cultural Commission or the “Meet the Artist” events, contact Milly Nadler at millynadler@gmail.com.

Free Seniors Classes at Edgewater Recreation Seniors can pick up advice on gardening, job searches and health care at free classes offered in February and March at the Edgewater Recreation Room, 5845 W. 25th Ave., sponsored by Jewish Family Services’ Colorado Senior Connections. No registration required. Learn how to prepare for spring planting by starting seeds in pots, inside your home, in “Planning for Spring Planting,” Wednesday, Feb. 20, 10 a.m., led by Colorado State University Extension. Pick up information and strategies for your job search in “Looking for Work as an Experienced Worker,” Wednesday, March 6, 10 a.m., presented by Jefferson County Workforce Center. Learn what questions to ask and how to make the most of your all-too-short contact with your doctor in “Be Your Own Best Medical Advocate,” Tuesday, March 12, 1:30 p.m. For more information on classes offered in Edgewater by Colorado Senior Connections, contact Alison Joucovsky at 720-248-4591 or ajoucovsky@jewishfamilyservice.org.

Men’s Group, Tax Help & Wellness Clinics Coming To Edgewater Jewish Family Services’ Colorado Senior Connections is offering a plethora of programs in February and March at various venues throughout Edgewater: “Walk-In Edgewater Wellness Clinics” take place Fridays, Feb. 22 and March 8,

2:30 to 4 p.m., at Edgewater Plaza, 2250 Eaton St., offering screenings of blood sugar, blood oxygen, weight and blood pressure, and answers to general health questions. Free. “Coffee and Doughnuts with Big Ron” ( JFS homemaker program’s Ron Crowell) gives men a chance to discuss politics, sports and whatever is on their mind, third Thursdays (Feb. 21) at 10:30 a.m. in the Edgewater Recreation Room, 5845 W. 25th Ave. – sorry ladies, it’s just for the fellas. Tour Channel 9, Denver’s NBC television station, where reporters deliver local and national news, weather, traffic and politics, Thursday, Feb. 21, 10 a.m.; $7. For details or to register, call Buffy at 720-763-3042, or email bfox@jewishfamilyservice.org. Computer classes are provided by the Jefferson County Public Library at Edgewater Recreation Center, 5845 W. 25th Ave., Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m., including: “Searching the Internet,” Feb. 20; “Social Networking,” Feb. 27; and “Basic Microsoft Word,” March 6. For more information on Colorado Senior Connections programs held in Edgewater, contact Alison Joucovsky at 720-248-4591 or ajoucovsky@jewishfamilyservice.org.

Try Out a Class For Free at Wheat Ridge Rec’s Demo Day Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation is offering a free Demonstration Day to show off a variety of classes, Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. Fitness offerings include “Youth Sports,” “Hip Hop Dance,” “Karate,” “Pilates Reformer,” “Tai Chi,” “Cycling,” “Step Aerobics,” “Taekwondo” and “Self Defense Techniques.” Health classes cover massage and reiki, as well as a nutrition workshop and assessment. Two youth Lego classes are available for ages 5-7 and 8-11. “Real Estate/ Property Management” is available as well. Each class is a half-hour long, and some are offered at multiple times; for times, visit http://www.ci.wheatridge.co.us/calendar. aspx?EID=1485. People can attend one or more classes and no registration or RSVP is necessary. Participants should wear appropriate, comfortable clothing and athletic shoes. demonstration day takes place Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wheat ridge recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. For additional information, call 303-231-1300.

Live Local Wheat Ridge Throws A Food Fight (Film) Feb. 27 Live Local Wheat Ridge will screen “Food Fight,” an exploration of the politics that created the current food system and the introduction of the new sustainable system growing in local communities, as part of its “2013 Food & Film Community Potluck and Movie Series,” Wednesday, Feb. 27, 6:30 to 9 p.m., at the Active Adult Center, 6363 W. 35th Ave., in Wheat Ridge. The series aims to educate the public about their food and how to invest in food systems to improve their communities, and takes place final Wednesdays through March. Participants are asked to bring a hot or cold dish to share, with an ingredient list for the benefit of people with allergies, and their own tableware. Meal begins at 6:30, film at 7 p.m. The events are free, and open to all ages. “Food Fight” will be screened Wednesday, Feb. 27, 6:30 to 9 p.m., at the Active Adult Center, 6363 W. 35th Ave. For more information, message Live Local Wheat ridge on Facebook or call 720-259-1030.

Page 7 Manager Goff To Speak at Wheat Ridge Business Association Breakfast Wheat Ridge City Manager Patrick Goff will update members of the Wheat Ridge Business Association on city happenings Tuesday, March 12, 7-9 a.m., during the WRBA breakfast meeting, held at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. City Economic Development Manager Steve Art joins Goff in the presentation. Fee is $12 and includes breakfast. Public is welcome; RSVP by March 6 at www. ewheatridge.com. the Wheat ridge business Association breakfast meeting takes place tuesday, March 12, 7-9 a.m., at the Wheat ridge recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. For details, visit www.ewheatridge. com or email info@wheatridgebiz.com.

Seat for Volunteer Open on Edgewater’s Board of Adjustment and Appeals Applications are being accepted for one voluntary position on the City of Edgewater’s Board of Adjustment and Appeals Board. The Board consists of five members, appointed by the mayor, and primarily considers appeals from denials of building permits and has the power to make exceptions to the terms of the zoning regulations, subject to certain limitations. It will be a short ride, however: the appointment is for a term expiring on May 1. Candidates must be a registered elector; resident of the city for at least one year;

not an elected official, officer or employee of the city; and have no convictions for embezzlement, bribery, solicitation of bribery, perjury, subornation of perjury, or any offense involving fraud. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, and are available at the City Clerk’s Office, 2401 Sheridan Boulevard or online. For details of the vacancy on the City of Edgewater board of Adjustment and Appeals, visit www.edgewaterco.com or call 303-235-8300.

Applewood Bridal Fair Coming to Wheat Ridge Rec Feb. 24 Brides-to-be can meet with a variety of wedding vendors at this year’s Applewood Bridal Fair, set for Sunday, Feb. 24, noon to 3 p.m., in the ballroom at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. Vendors specializing in music and entertainment, floral design, gowns and dresses, photography, party rentals, financial planning, tuxedo rentals and more will be on hand. Brides can preregister for the event at applewoodbridalfair.net, and be entered into a prize drawing held during the fair. The free event is sponsored by A to Z Rental Center and the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center. the Applewood bridal Fair takes place Sunday, Feb. 24, noon to 3 p.m., at the Wheat ridge recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St. For more information, call 303-231-1300 or visit www.applewoodbridalfair.net.

Neighborhood Gazette News Friend the Neighborhood Gazette on Facebook for chance to win $10.00 Off at the Dragon Fly Café. Winner will be announced in the April issue. Sign-up at www.ngazette.com to receive weekly Neighborhood Gazette Hot Deals, starting next week. Don’t miss the Neighborhood Gazette’s first advertised CA$H Mob at the Dragon Fly on Tuesday, February 19th. See ad on page 4 for details. Contact Vicki Ottoson to advertise a CA$H Mob at your business. Contact editor@ngazette.com if your family-owned business has operated in Wheat Ridge for 10 years or more. Did you know? The Neighborhood Gazette is distributed to 12,000 households in Wheat Ridge & Edgewater every month. Check out the great dining deals on page 5, meals from $5.95 to 50% off any entree. Support our advertisers: Shop in Wheat Ridge

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School Crossing Gardens, Parks, Politics & More www.44thandkendallpark.com. The snow came down hard today during my open house across Discovery Park. here’s no doubt about which direction Looking out through the window I watched 2013 is headed. We hit the road running an amazing woman leading her family and January was filled with exciting in a game of football. I suddenly realized announcements that will improve our lives that I wasn’t alone in watching this scene: inside our schools and around our community. a gentleman relocating to Colorado from The Prospect Valley Elementary School Indiana was suddenly standing garden is set to open on Earth next to me looking out the same Day, April 22. Chasing grants, window. He turned to me and soliciting donations and jumping said, “This is exactly why I want to through the many county hoops, move here.” I received a full price Stacie Mintken has been working offer from his Realtor earlier this hard for the last three years to evening. Thank you, Cara! make this dream a reality for Our parks and amazing the school. Look for volunteer schools remain the main draw opportunities to be announced. for most families moving here. With this semester coming Even in 1859 when Wheat Ridge to an end in just a few months, was starting out as a community, many families are still looking at Guy Nahmiach it provided assistance to all those the next step for their children. on their way up to the mountains seeking Congratulations to my daughter Danielle fortunes. The rich land helped them to for deciding to move forward with the IB quickly grow into a farming force, supporting (International Baccalaureate) program at the neighboring cities. Did you know the very Lakewood High. first apple tree planted in Wheat Ridge was January also included the official voting on Ward Road and 38th Avenue? by Wheat Ridge City Council to ban 2013 did start with a few internal smoking from our parks and open spaces. struggles. First, I’m still trying to understand This news was well received by most park this new initiative from the school board, goers. While not everyone agrees, the city did Year of the Student. Shouldn’t every year be well to go through all the steps to make sure the year of the student for them? I am also all voices were heard and that all options were struggling with Minecraft, the video game considered. This compromise demonstrates that has taken over our nation’s young minds. the wonderful balance of power and opinions Has this game invaded your home? that exists in Wheat Ridge. It’ll be interesting Finally, I am so proud to have been asked to see who throws their hat into the ring when to help out in Everitt’s Value Awards. With our mayor’s term runs out. So far I am not such a talented staff, the entire school should impressed with the names being mentioned. get an award. Is there someone out there you feel would be Congratulations also to our very own the right person for the job? Nancy Marble, for winning this year’s I am also really excited about the new Colorado String Music Teacher of the Year. park being developed over at Kendall and Is something special happening at your 44th. Just over two acres and empty for school? Write in and share the news with us. years. It will be a wonderful addition to that As always, thanks for reading. neighborhood. Remember that all of these Guy Nahmiach can be reached at 303-999parks are being built and maintained with 5789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com. grants and lottery dollars. It’s wonderful that someone gets rich from the winnings, but our kids get an amazing place to play in. HAVE A NEWS TIP, Keep an eye out for the three public meetings STORY IDEA OR regarding the design and construction of the LETTER TO THE EDITOR? park, Feb. 20, March 6 and 13, 6:30 p.m., at the Active Adult Center, 6363 W. 35th Visit ngazette.com or Ave. Make sure to show up and share your editor@ngazette.com ideas. Info about this park can be found at BY GUY NAHMIACH

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Page 8

Urban Perspective

From The Publisher

Forgive Me, Locals, For I Have Sinned…

BY Tim Berland

and 38th. I spent time and money at this new Walthought I could keep this secret, but it is Mart, and I paid a unique price. I paid the unique price of a “Public Improvement Fee.” killing me to try to keep this from you. It has been a week and now I have Most people do not know they are paying these done it three times. I need help. It is just that fees, mostly because your receipt does a poor job I thought I had enough self control, I thought of explaining what you are paying for exactly. On my receipts I found four I would go check things out and separately listed tax rates. One of not end up doing what I told these taxes which is listed as a “tax” myself I would not do. on the receipt is actual the Public I must confess that I crossed Improvement Fee. In a small sign Harlan Street. I hope you can on only one of the registers at forgive me for my transgressions. Wal-Mart is a description of this I went shopping at the new fee. It states that not only is this Lakeside Wal-Mart. 2.5 percent Public Improvement I snaked my way through the Fee not a government tax, but that neighborhood; I stopped for a sales tax will be charged against the second at the intersection of 45th Zachary Urban amount of the fee you pay. Ave. and Harlan St. I hoped against You read that correctly: If you shop at the hope that someone would see me, see the WalMart across the street, and yell, “Zach, go right, Lakeside Wal-Mart, you get to pay a 2.5 percent go right, 38th and 44th avenues have all that privately imposed fee, and then you also get to you need.” I even rolled down my window and pay sales tax on the fee. So if you spend $1.00 listened for anyone, anyone to stop me in my you will pay $2.50 in private fees, and then your pursuit of the paradox that is the nation’s largest total gross sales of $102.50 will taxed with the retail store located in one of Colorado’s smallest sales tax rate applicable to your purchases. For $2.50 you could gain admission into Lakeside towns. I’m not an anti-Wal-Mart guy by any Amusement Park, and then afterwards go means, but when you combine the gigantism straight on 44th or 38th to support Wheat of Wal-Mart with the puniness of Lakeside, Ridge’s small business community. If you are like me and are having trouble that alone is enough to make me want to go shopping elsewhere. “But it is so close” says the avoiding the convenience of this new little guy on my shoulder. The small business development, call me and we can go shopping angel on my other shoulder then mentions that together on 44th or 38th to work through our this new venture will not benefit the coffers of issues. Zachary Urban can be reached at 720-252the surrounding municipalities, nor does it help those Wheat Ridge small businesses on 44th 5930 or www.zacharyurban.com. BY ZACHARY URBAN

Now that the Chocolate hearts are empty, come in for a checkup and cleaning.

ith almost 16 months of newspaper ownership under my belt, I promised my parents that I would take a stab at including something personal in my own paper. While I’m not quite of the writing caliber of some of my associates, I thought a note from the publisher, on a regular basis, would be appropriate. Nothing earth shattering … at least not yet. Welcome to our new sales associate, Vicki Ottoson. Vicki brings 10 years of ad sales experience with the Colorado Tourism Office to her new relationship with the Neighborhood Gazette. Vicki also serves on the Wheat Ridge Garden Tour committee. She and her husband, Ernie, have been Wheat Ridge residents since 2005. She can be contacted regarding any advertising concerns you might have at 303-777-6144 or by email: vottoson@gmail.com. I would also like to welcome Meredith Thayler to our team. She will be focusing on our business community in the coming months, so feel free to feed her any relevant information you might have. She can be reached at meredith.thaler@gmail.com. Her column will resume next month, after what I am sure was a much-needed break with her family in Mexico. Congratulations to Tony Hiser, owner of The Dragonfly, 7300 W. 38th Ave., who will be making his professional cage fighting debut this month. The fight will be held Feb. 22 at Red & Jerry’s, 1840 W. Oxford Ave. (off Sante Fe Dr.) Doors open at 6:30 p.m. While not his first fight, it is his first professional bout. Come help cheer him on. The Dragonfly will also be hosting our first CA$H Mob, Feb. 19, from 7-3 p.m. Tony will be offering 10 percent off to all customers paying in “cold hard cash.” We hope to be offering this at different locations throughout the year, so stay tuned for details. Look for many more exciting changes in the coming year. We are striving to become your Wheat Ridge and Edgewater “community and business resource.” Feel free to contact me directly at tberland@ngazette.com, 303-995-2806 if you have any comments, concerns or suggestions for the Neighborhood Gazette.

Letter to the Editor The views expressed in this column are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the publishers, advertisers or affiliates. Readers are encouraged to submit letters to: Editor, Neighborhood Gazette, 4385 Wadsworth Blvd. #140, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 or editor@ngazette.com. Contributions maybe edited for space or content.

Smoking Restrictions Progressive Not Militant

As residents of Wheat Ridge for over 35 years, we applaud the Wheat Ridge City Council for unanimously passing a rule banning smoking in the city’s parks, playgrounds and open spaces. This action promotes a healthier outdoor environment for the residents of this community and is in keeping with what is being done in other thriving cities in Colorado and the nation. Contrary to the quote from Guy Nahmiach in the January 2013 Neighborhood Gazette (‘No Smoking’ Signs Coming To Wheat Ridge Parks, Open Spaces’) that an even broader ban would be “pretty militant‚” many communities have been praised by their constituents for enacting even broader bans: Edgewater and Arvada have smokefree restaurant and bar patios; Golden, Edgewater, and Arvada have smoke-free tobacco shops, preventing the establishment of youth-targeted hookah lounges and “pot bars.” A survey of households within a half-mile radius of Wheat Ridge found that the residents of greater than 20,000 households would be more likely to visit Wheat Ridge if there were smoke-free restaurant and bar patios citywide. Smoke-free policies are good for the health and business of our community. Attracting visitors, families and businesses to our community by expanding the smoke-free environment is not militant, but rather a peaceful and progressive approach that provides residents and visitors the opportunity to avoid breathing toxic chemicals from secondhand tobacco smoke, proven to be harmful to the health of newborns, children and adults. Lorrie Odom, MD and John Odom, Jr., MD

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