Neighborhood Gazette – May 2014 by Neighborhood Gazette

Wheat Ridge D.I. Team Advances To Global Finals see page 6

Zumba – Fitness Fusion of Dance, Aerobics see page 7

New Senior Clinic Needs Your Help see page 11

Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

Wheat Ridge | Edgewater | MAY 16 – JUNE 17, 2014

Bike Racers Race Criterium on Wheat Ridge City Streets in June By Cyndy Beal

n a summer morning in June, a swarm of bicycle racers will take over a mile of closed city streets in Wheat Ridge. Don’t panic! It’s just the Ridge at 38 Criterium (Crit) Bike Race scheduled for Sunday, June 22. The bike race runs from 7:30 a.m. to 12:55 p.m. The start and ﬁnish line will be in front of Wheat Ridge Cyclery (WRC) at High Court and 38th Avenue. The accompanying family-friendly festival will continue until 3:30 p.m., on the Green at Wheat Ridge 5-8 School, 7101 W. 38th Ave. The festival will feature live music, food and other entertainment. A community 10-minute fun ride is scheduled for 11:40 a.m. Bike racers are advised to arrive an hour prior, at 6:30 a.m. In order to register and compete, racers are required to have a USA Cycling (USAC) license. All USAC rules apply. Bicycle Racing Association of Colorado (BRAC) membership is recommended to gain points for the Rocky Mountain Road Cup. The Rocky Mountain Road Cup is a season-long Colorado competition with multiple bike races, which wraps up with awards in the fall. The Ridge at 38 Criterium is a Bronze level Rocky Mountain Road Cup road bike race. It’s a closed circuit, 1.15-mile course or loop with six corners. There are seven races and categories, and range in time from 40 to 55 minutes per race. The race course, primarily on residential streets, starts in front of WRC. The route includes High Court, 35th Avenue, Pierce Street, and sections of 38th Avenue and 39th Avenue. For detailed route information, visit http://ridgeat38.com/play/2014criterium/ map/ or see map on page 11. Criteriums are short one-day races, with multiple laps, and are the most common type of American bike racing. They are often ridden on closed city streets. These races are around a mile or less for a single lap,

and each race usually lasts from one to two hours. They are extremely fast, with speeds of 30 mph and up according to the USAC website, www.usacycling.org/road-cyclingcriteriums.htm Criteriums are exciting and actionfilled not just for the riders, but also for the spectators as well. “You never know who’s going win the bike race,” said Ron Kiefel, president and general manager of WRC, about criterium races. A rider in the lead often doesn’t stay that way or hold the position for long. In a criterium, a racer may win prizes or merchandise for winning a single lap. Kiefel also advised spectators to “keep your toes out of the road” and to “look down the road” to avoid colliding with riders on the course. The city has hosted other bicycle races, as well, such as the USA Pro Challenge cycling race that passed through on 32nd Avenue last August. The Pro Challenge is scheduled again for this coming summer. Racing aside, it’s common in Wheat Ridge to see people on bikes, either as individuals or groups, such as a family on a casual ride on residential streets or on the Clear Creek Trail. Families and bicycles just go together. In August 1973, Eugene Kiefel, Ron’s father, bought a bike shop, later named WRC. As a matter of course, for a family-run business, family members have spent time working in the shop. Ron’s mother, Nora, and his two sisters, Erlinda and Leona, all have worked at WRC. Kiefel himself is no stranger to road bike racing. Kiefel was the first American to win a stage in the Giro d’Italia and a Bronze medal in the 1984 Olympics for the team time trial. He raced in and completed seven Tours de France, and was U.S. National Road Champion in 1983 and 1988, per the WRC website. This isn’t the first criterium for Wheat Ridge. The first was in 1982, followed by two Continued on page 12

IN A CRITERIUM CORNERS ARE KEY – At the first Wheat Ridge Criterium in 1982 a pack of bike racers turn the corner onto 33rd Avenue. In this year’s Criterium in June, competitors will complete multiple laps on a 1.15-mile course on Wheat Ridge’s city streets. PHOTO COURTESTY WHEAT RIDGE CYCLERY AND WHEAT RIDGE 2020

BIKING IN BELGUIUM IN 1989 Ron Kiefel rides as part of Team 7-Eleven. Kiefel, president and general manager of Wheat Ridge Cyclery, was part of the first American team in the Grand Tours of Europe. On June 22, Wheat Ridge Cyclery is providing support for Criterium bike racers. PHOTO COURTESY OF WHEAT RIDGE CYCLERY

Voters Approve Higher Mill Levy, New Director for WRFPD By J. Patrick O’Leary

y a vote of 3,054 to 2,393, voters in the Wheat Ridge Fire Protection District approved a tax increase of 5 mills – from 7.5 to 12.5 mills. They also replaced one incumbent member of the District’s board of directors in the May 6 regular special district election. Of 27,000 eligible voters, only 20 percent – 5,447 – cast ballots. Of those, 56 percent approved the increase. The increase is expected to raise $1,663,296 in 2015, and pay for general operating and capital expenses, including replacing older fire apparatus, renovating and constructing buildings, and the personnel costs necessary to continue the current level of service. It is estimated that the increase will result in an additional $79 in annual property taxes on a $200,000 house. WRFPD’s board of directors voted to place the increase on the ballot after discussing the findings of a Blue Ribbon Panel report on challenges facing the district, released at the board’s Jan. 15 meeting. Fire Chief Robert Olme told the Neighborhood Gazette last month that, due to the loss of grants and other factors, WRFPD’s current 2014 budget was “tight”: “No capital expenditures are planned. We’ve frozen salaries and hiring.” The additional revenue from the mill levy increase will be available for use in 2015. Voters chose to give two incumbents another four years on the WRFPD board of directors: First Vice President James R. Johnson and Secretary Robert “Kent” Johnson, with 2,713 and 3,084 votes, respectively – the third and first largest tallies. Monica I. Duran received the secondhighest number of votes – 2,871 – pushing out appointed incumbent Ronald L. Benson,

who had served as Treasurer. Benson received 2,310 votes, fourth highest, but well ahead of challenger Leonard F. Ortiz’s 1,571 votes. Duran placed third in a four-way race for a Wheat Ridge City Council District I seat in November. Ortiz unsuccessfully ran for a WRFPD director position in 2010. Voters were asked for vote for three of the five candidates. Robert Johnson received 57 percent of possible votes; Duran 53 percent; James Johnson 50 percent; Benson 42 percent; and Ortiz 29 percent. Ahead for the slightly changed board is the development of a long-term financial plan for the district, and an organizational assessment, which were recommended by the report. The financial plan is necessary to determine how much revenue is needed for short- and long-term services, develop reserve and investment policies, and finance the promised, new Edgewater fire station. The organizational assessment will assess the district’s structure and level of services, review the board of directors’ roles and responsibilities, help the board develop a vision for the future, conduct a compensation study to develop a new market-driven compensation plan, and re-examine creating a financial operations position. According to designated election official Barbara Sferra, election judges began preprocessing ballots received in late April, but a decision was made to not tally votes until the night of the election, May 6. There was no crowd awaiting results outside the fire station that night, she said, and only one person – Edgewater’s mayor – requested to be notified of the results that night. Chief Olme met with firefighters that night, and all candidates were advised of the results. Election documents and results, and a copy of the Blue Ribbon Panel Report can be found at www.wrfire.org.

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NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – MAY 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – ngazette.com

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WHEAT RIDGE CITY NEWS Because You Ask signs, facades, ADA compliance and exterior paint, the grants leverage private business investment and improve commercial e share our future in Wheat Ridge, properties. Contact the Wheat Ridge Business and as economic partners, my District for grant information. intention is to keep you informed. Here are Picking and choosing: We have little some answers to your questions. ability to discriminate against Trader Joe’s: Thank you, to any business or person wanting all who have been trying to bring to locate here if their applications Trader Joe’s to Wheat Ridge. follow building regulations, Unfortunately, there has never code, proper zoning, setbacks, been much corporate interest. streetscape, etc. We can make Reportedly, T. Joe demographics it tough, but legally we have to require 36,000 people within a play fair with all who come, be it 15-mile radius, median age of 44 love it – or not so much. Playing with a four-year college degree, fair even included the thankfully and a combined income of failed hookah bar. $64,000 per year. Sprouts is still Road maintenance: coming – hopefully by the end of Years of tightening down has the year. Joyce Jay created a backlog on street Helping as part of maintenance. Today, we are short $6 million community: Our taxes aid several in back needs. Public works tells us that we do compelling community agencies including not want to lose our road base, which would Family Tree, Jefferson Mental Health, CASA, multiply future costs. Look for a ballot issue Glass Hearts, Ralston House, Optimist Club, on this one. and the Carnation Festival. With a senior Good news: Small and large population of 32 percent, our largest donation development is spreading all over the city – $31,500 – goes to Senior Resource Center. with three new housing groups, commercial Money spent on 38th Avenue: Actual development on 38th & Wadsworth, 38th dollars spent on re-striping, pop-up cafes and Kipling, and even serious interest in the and planters was $304,000. Add conceptual old Cabela site west of I-70. Years forward, and ﬁnal designs, marketing, website, public this will solidify the city’s bottom line, but meetings, two years’ landscape planting money for infrastructure, builder/business and maintenance, extra snow removal, incentives and environmental clean-up will banners/poles, several events (Christmas put pressure on today’s treasury – but the twice) through 2014, plus new safety lights future looks quite promising. and it adds up to that much again. Worth Wheat Ridge Recreation Center: it? Smart cities continually improve and Did you know that our popular, highmerchandise their downtown to bring in new use recreation center is a service to our restaurants, new business and new residents. community? As the building and equipment It is key to sustaining vitality and growth. This age, the user fees do not cover the cost of investment has kicked up sales tax revenues operation and maintenance. Dwindling rec 25 percent on the corridor, added 30-plus net center reserves, Colorado lottery money and businesses, and close-by residential property the City General Fund make up the difference. values have soared. More business is coming. Once again, it is worth it. Other economic investment: Within Wheat Ridge mayor Joyce Jay can the past 10 years the city has provided over be reached at 303-235-2800 or jjay@ one-half million in matching dollars to help ci.wheatridge.co.us. the full city business community. Used for

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New Genesis Health isn’t new, but the name and location is. “We needed to change our name so that we weren’t mistaken for a dispensary,” said Tom Phillips, owner of the Wheat Ridgebased whole wellness ﬁrm. The long-time community business was previously known as The Green Herb, but changed its moniker after relocating to 4565 Kipling St., because of almost daily inquiries about the availability of Colorado’s newest retail product. “It was disruptive to our regular customers.” The new location offers supplements, acupuncture, massage therapy, health screenings and consultations, but not marijuana. For more information and a full list of their services, go to www.thegreenherb.com, or visit their new location at 4565 Kipling St.

Things Will Go Swimmingly Expect Swim Otters Swim & Fitness School to open at 3974 Youngfield St. next month. “We are definitely opening in June,” said Founder/CEO Kathy Nowak. Swim Otters offers individual lessons for children ages 6 months to 12 years, tailored to each child’s need. Programs include Water Safety & Survival, Once a Weeker Tweeker, Otter Stroke Development & Swim Team Prep, and Otter Snorkel. The school will boast a state-of-the-art pool made in Italy, with a unique ultraviolet light filtration system to make swim lessons a chlorine-free, no-more-red-eyes experience. They’ll also have a retail swim shop with a large selection of swim gear. The Wheat Ridge location is the newest

in the metro area, joining Broomﬁeld, Commerce City, Denver-Stapleton, Lakewood, Park Meadows and Thornton. For more information or to enroll for classes, visit www.swimotters.com or call 303-554-SWIM (7946).

Teller Street Goes Online Teller Street Gallery & Studios is expanding beyond its “brick and mortar” locale by opening an online gallery extension to their website. Teller Street Gallery Editions, at www.TellerStreetGallery.com/Store, will feature open and limited edition ﬁne art prints by many of the local artists featured in the gallery. A live launch party (some things aren’t as fun online) for Teller Street Gallery Editions will be held on Friday, June 6, from 6-9 p.m., at the 7190 W. 38th Ave. gallery. Printed artwork will be on display and available for order from both the gallery and online store. Mats and framing are available to complete your favorite piece at Teller Street Framing located above the gallery. For more information, visit www.Teller StreetGallery.com or call 303-424-9273.

KareBear’s Open Sundays Our hearty congratulations to KareBear Bakery on its opening last month, but our sincerest apologies for not quite getting the hours right. Partner and Bakery Manager Roberta Lott tells us the new bakery, located at 6150 W. 38th Ave., is open Tuesday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.kare bearbakery.com or call 720-638-3649.

ngazette.com – May 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

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neighborhood gazette – May 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – ngazette.com

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new developments are completed, most of the vacant land in Wheat Ridge will be gone. Pet Feeding (daily) • Dog Walking • Animal Playtime 1/24 H The next step would be the redevelopment of n the early 1980s, the voters of Wheat Clean Kitty Boxes, Cages • Feed Fish distressed housing stock across the city, as Ridge amended the City Charter and Water Plants • Shovel Snow • Mail/Trash needed. approved height and density restrictions in and so much more… I support revitalization efforts in our an effort to protect single-family residential $10 PER VISIT neighborhoods, such as the Wheat Ridge neighborhoods from high density, multiFirst visit FREE with this ad. Housing Authority (WRHA), and do agree family dwellings. domestic draft, Wine or Well 7am to 7pm Thank you! that some residential properties need to On Aug. 25, 2008, Wheat Ridge City be scraped and replaced with new market Council voted to place three items on the rate housing stock. However, November 2008 ballot including I don’t support the City of ballot question 2C – a change Don’t Sell Your Best Wheat Ridge becoming the new in the City Charter to take the Investment. Glendale of Jefferson County height and density restrictions Keep it cash-ﬂowing, hassle free! with high-density, multi-family completely out of the Charter units replacing our single-family and have them placed and homes and large residential lots. maintained in the appropriate Josh Smiley Most people tell me they section of the City Code of Laws sarah dubois pioneer 303-710-2147 moved to Wheat Ridge because and Zoning Codes. This ballot of the large residential lots and question was defeated by the 1/24 H 1/24 H single-family neighborhoods. I voters. “Great Tenants Guaranteed.” haven’t had anyone tell me they In November 2009, council bought their home so a developer proposed a compromise and Jerry DiTullio 720-839-7482 could build multi-family asked the voters to remove the smileyelectric.net apartments adjacent to them. Ironically, height and density restrictions from the RentMeDenver.com most of the people who want to again change areas in the city that were considered urban the Charter either don’t live in the city, or renewal areas, such as the Wadsworth, I-70 they live in a single-family home with a nice and Kipling corridors, the new Gold Line large lot. Since when did high-density, multiTransit-Oriented Development site in Wheat family dwellings become a positive for a city Ridge (near 52nd and Ward), among other our size? Where’s the data that shows this locations. This ballot question was approved will benefit Wheat Ridge economically or by the voters. socially? Future city councils could approve For some, this compromise is not these types of drastic developments if the enough. Several members of city staff, Wheat charter protections are removed. Ridge 2020 and other special interest groups TELLER ST FRAMING The City Charter was amended by the are pushing council to once again ask the 1/12 H voters to protect neighborhoods and to voters to completely remove the restrictions create a system of checks and balances on from the charter. The city has embraced (Located above Teller Street Gallery) future development and redevelopment in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), Wheat Ridge. As an elected official and as a upgraded its building standards and codes, resident, I will oppose any more changes to and has created best practice mixed-use Tuesday - Friday 10am-5pm • Saturday 10am-4pm. the Charter with regards to the height and zone districts. It has also streamlined and density limitations. The citizens of Wheat Must present coupon at time of order. Valid through 6/15/2014. developed land use regulations, which are Ridge have spoken on this issue. Going to guiding our new residential and commercial the voters for a third time is futile. developments. To the supporters of removing the height Wheat Ridge is currently experiencing and density limitations from the Charter, I the most new residential development it say “be careful what you wish for.” has seen in 20 years. New housing stock Contact Wheat Ridge District I City is being constructed at 38th and Depew, Councilman Jerry DiTullio at jeditullio@ 41st and Fenton, 44th and Upham (senior ci.wheatridge.co.us or 303-231-1392. housing), and 38th and Simms. After these

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f you live in the Wheat Ridge area you can’t help but notice the proliferation of used, thrift, vintage and consignment stores popping up all around us. There are many reasons for this, including metro Denver convenience and great vintage real estate. My husband, Pat Gooch, has extensive experience as a “picker” and has rescued some of our culture’s treasurers. So I’ve asked him to share a bit about his experience. “I started picking when I owned my first antique shop in Indiana in 1968,” says Gooch. “I’ve been in attics, cellars, crawl spaces, barns, abandoned homes and thrift stores for many years and the one thing that keeps driving you is the search for treasures of the past, and it’s especially gratifying when those items have monetary value. “The adventures of picking are not as glamorous as Frank and Mike would have you believe on ‘American Pickers.’ There is generally no Danielle directing you to the next ‘honey hole’ or driving around in a Mercedes Benz luxury van. Needless to say I didn’t have a cell phone, GPS and my camouflaged printed van wouldn’t ever be mistaken for a city slicker especially with my grandma often riding shotgun. “The choice to make Wheat Ridge my home and also the center of my retirement venture is because I’ve been to a place or two, but Wheat Ridge doesn’t take a back seat to anyplace when it comes to picking. “If you’re interested in getting more involved in picking in our area here is my

Picking 101 shortlist: • “Follow EstateSales.net on-line and click through to the sales in Wheat Ridge, Lakewood, Arvada and Golden. • “Check local papers for garage, estate and other sales. • “Craigslist is also a great source for some good finds, but you have to be quick AND prompt and take cash. • “Visiting our local businesses on a rotating bases, even though these folks usually know their merchandise they may have missed something or are motivated to make some more space. Some great stores that I’m personally aware of are 44th Avenue Antiques, All-In-The Family, Brass Armadillo, Cathouse Antiques, Gently Used Furniture, McKinley Hill Antiques, Mid-Mod Vintage, Modify, modmood and RETRO Consignment, Ragtime Antiques, Treasure Trunk Thrift Shop, Wheat Ridge Antiques and Wheat Ridge Used Furniture. • “And don’t forget yard, garage and estate sales – get there early and don’t hesitate when you see ‘that’ item. “Although Stage Stop Antiques, Family Thrift and others have faded into the sunset, the interest in preserving yesteryear and the experience of finding a ‘deal’ has never been shared by more, happy pickin!” 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.

ngazette.com – May 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

EdgEwatEr City nEws ‘Business As Usual’ Not An Option By Bonnie McNulty

Metro Fire Protection District’s vote was close, but still failing. “Business-as-usual” is not an option.

ell, of the approximately 27,000 eligible voters in the Wheat Ridge Fire Protection District (WRFPD) about Edgewater Business 5,447 voted on a ballot question to increase The focus of this month’s Edgewater the District’s mill levy. Voters were also business is UberChic Nail Boutique located asked to elect three members to the at 5223 W. 25th Ave., phone 303-462-2442. District’s five-member Board According to the owners, of Directors. The 5.0 mill levy ÜberChic Nail Boutique is “an increase passed, making the eco-conscious salon specializing District’s total mill levy 12.5 in natural nail care, waxing and mills. Two incumbents, James facials.” (Jim) Johnson and Kent “We are a family-run and Johnson, were re-elected, and -operated business with German/ Monica Duran was elected to Vietnamese background. her first term on the Board. Together, we three sisters – B.K., The challenge, in my Bee and Nhi – manage the salon opinion, is for the Board of as a fabulous team! Our dog Directors to get more involved Emma (a Cavalier King Charles Bonnie McNulty than they have in the past. Spaniel) is the shop mascot and While the District has been part of the establishment. Don’t be around since 1926, its current operational surprised to find her hanging out at the salon model is very new. The transition from all all the time! The concept of our boutique volunteer to predominately paid firefighters, reflects the fusion of our cultural heritage: and the addition of their second station, modern, clean and sustainable; yet warm, happened as recently as 2010. They took inviting and fun! We take great pride in what on Edgewater and its third station in 2012. we do and strive to provide safe and topThese were major operational changes. The notch services with a down-to-earth attitude. District, from its Board of Directors to its ”We have now been located in Edgewater firefighters, must grow and change to support for three years now. We chose Edgewater for this totally different style of doing business. its quaint, small town charm and convenient The laws are different. The expectations of location. the staff are different. The expectations of the “In April, we re-located from 25th watching public are different. Why? Because and Eaton to our current location on 25th the organization is different. Avenue between Sheridan and Ames. We When a group has been doing something really enjoy the new, bigger space and one way for decades it is very hard to see the just love being in the midst of the hustle need for change. The Blue Ribbon Panel and bustle of Main Street. In fact, we are recommended much more than an increase celebrating our three-year-anniversary and in the mill levy. I challenge the Board to grand re-opening. Edgewater is developing follow the Panel’s recommendations and fast with some great businesses to showcase work with Chief Robert Olme to manage the and we are grateful and excited to be a part WRFPD in a manner that will support the of this wonderful community.” growing needs of the people without asking for another mill levy in the next few years. Edgewater mayor Bonnie McNulty can At last count, the Fairmount Fire Protection be reached at 303-233-6216 or bjmcnulDistrict’s mill levy increase failed, and West ty2@comcast.net.

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EdgEwatEr City CounCil Happy Memorial Day it our intention to prosecute wars without a declaration, especially in light of the fact that our war-making capabilities have been itizens and neighbors, I would like to slowly consumed by the private sector? War wish you a Happy Memorial Day while profiteering is a very old business, and it we honor those who have fallen in battle. is a death knell for a republic that upholds May we remember our sons and daughters democratic ideals. who are in uniform at home and I have been knocking on abroad. I also want to thank doors over the last few months my wife for serving as a combat and have spoken with many folks medic in the Army National about this issue. Although I am Guard for 8 years. running for state representative, Last year, I wrote an article conversations do include topics (http://www.ngazette.com/ of national concern. archive/449-asking-why-andOur foreign policy and the how-to-honor-on-memorialstate of world affairs affect us all, day.html ) decrying our current and sometimes we feel helpless foreign policy and the dangers to make a change. We can make facing our republic. Kris Teegardin a change, and that starts by Not long ago Eisenhower taking care of each other. That stated, “We must never let the starts by serving our community, as many weight of this [military industrial complex] of you do every single day. And through combination endanger our liberties or serving our community, I have come to a democratic processes. We should take place in my life where I wish to serve you at nothing for granted. Only an alert and the state capitol. knowledgeable citizenry can compel the By the way, the Democratic primary proper meshing of the huge industrial and election for our State House District is military machinery of defense with our June 24th. If you are a democrat, you will peaceful methods and goals, so that security receive a mail-in ballot 18-22 days before and liberty may prosper together.” We have the election date. I would be honored and experienced many conflicts after this speech humbled to have your vote. See you soon. was delivered, and we will continue to Contact Edgewater City Councilexperience conflicts in the future. It is our man Kristian Teegardin at kteegardin@ common goal to secure peace and freedom edgewaterco.com. throughout the world. But at what price? Is

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neighborhood gazette – May 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – ngazette.com

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fter years of relocating so many young families into Wheat Ridge, I always wondered which schools would their kids attend? Starting in 1994, Open Enrollment allowed families to choose schools in other cities. Neighborhood schools are now almost a thing of the past. As parents get more involved in their children’s education, choices are made based on performances and test scores. I am sure my colleagues can relate. How many homebuyers look up schools on GreatSchools.com to decide on whether or not to purchase a home? Testimonials and even TCAP scores? Interviews, shadowing and word of mouth? If you doubt this, here are some facts: 488 students that should be going to Wheat Ridge High are choosing to go elsewhere, and 224 students that should be going to Kullerstrand have also opted for another school. Even Prospect Valley has almost 90 students that have elected to attend another school. The list goes on for every single school in our city. Wheat Ridge principal Griff Wirth and Everitt principal Jeffrey Gomez talk of this trend starting in elementary schools. The track parents choose for their kids could lead them away from our city even before the middle and high schools have had a chance to offer their programs. Enter the Wheat Ridge Committee for Educational Excellence. The newly formed committee includes councilwoman Genevieve Wooden, mayor Joyce Jay, chief of police Dan Brennan, city manager Patrick Goff, Jeffco Board of Education member Jill Felman, Jeffco Schools’ Executive Director of School Effectiveness Brenda Carlson, as well as myself and Chad Harr – “concerned citizens.” Our goal is to promote Wheat Ridge schools to Wheat Ridge families. This includes charter, private and the traditional school down the road we grew up with. We’re avoiding using terms like “public” and “neighborhood” to try and include everyone

– all schools, all families. Some principals will boast about their school’s wait list, but won’t talk about the academic level of these waiting students. While at our own school, we see a definite correlation between decreased TCAP scores and increased level of Free & Reduced Lunch students. The goal would be to attract just as many advanced learners as to balance each classroom. Out of the 60 Wheat Ridge resident graduates from Creighton Middle Schools’ Gifted & Talented program this year, 30 will funnel into Lakewood High School’s International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Only 15 will go into the Peak/GT program at Wheat Ridge High. Principal Wirth was a guest at one of our committee meetings and acknowledged that his school needs to do a better job of not only attracting these advanced learners, but also celebrating academic achievements as much as athletic championships. Wirth is a great defender of his school, but admits “needing help in the PR department.” This is exactly where this new committee comes in. On Sept. 17 we will be holding our first Wheat Ridge Education Summit, a town hall-style forum for parents to come and listen, learn and ask questions from representatives from every school in our town. This will be the chance to ask hard questions, compare what is offered and maybe even learn first-hand which school is the best fit for your kids. The hope and long-term goal is sustainability and a reputation for educational excellence for our city. Kids that attend schools in our town will hopefully come back as adults to raise their families right here in Wheat Ridge. In this continuing series of articles highlighting Wheat Ridge education, we’ll cover all angles and would love to hear from you. What school did you or your kids attend? Tell us why and how you chose that particular school. Contact Guy Nahmiach at 303-9995789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

Wheat Ridge D.I. Team Advances To Global Finals By Guy Nahmiach

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Although working under strict rules that limit resources but promote clever solutions, the Wheat Ridge team claims that their biggest challenge was learning how to work with new team members and successfully design and produce solutions to the challenge they’ve been handed. What a perfect training ground for corporations looking for leaders in their fields. While representing our city, the team is seeking sponsorships to show off on mass media and local audiences. The cost to get to this team to Tennessee is $7,000, and while some has already been raised, it would be great to see our local businesses or even city council help out. We have a great momentum going right now. This is wonderful opportunity to further promote our city to a market that perhaps has not heard of all the new businesses in Wheat Ridge.

estination Imagination (DI) has been around a long time. Thousands of groups of students compete against one another in a race to find engineering solutions that involve structural, technical and scientific challenges. Any assistance from parents is strictly prohibited. Local team Gorilla Glue Crew will be competing in the Global Finals, to be held May 21-24, in Tennessee, challenging 1,500 teams from 60 countries. The team includes seventh grader Brian Simpson and eighthgrader Aidan Gould from Manning, seventhgrader Jordyn Pollock from Creighton, and fourth-grader Melody Simpson and fifth-grader Sydney Pollock from Prospect Valley Elementary. Their journey included ATTORNEYS AT LAW For more event or sponsorship inforwinning regional and state competitions, Th omas Ripp • 303-423-7131 mation, please contact Debbie Simpson at raising funds to buy materials, allR.while Joseph H. Lusk • 303-423-7131 303 913-7278. keeping up their grades at school.

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ngazette.com – May 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

FiTneSS FocuS Zumba – A Fitness Fusion of Dance and Aerobics

umba is nothing short of a fitness revolution. What exactly is it? Fans will tell you it’s a little bit of everything. From its simple origins as a Latin-based concept created by Columbian “Beto” Perez, Zumba has become a favorite exercise option for the young and old alike, fusing dance with aerobics. Zumba appeals to a large crowd because it’s not about your age and ability to lift something heavy or run endlessly on a treadmill, it’s primarily about having fun and following simple, repetitive choreography in a group where everyone is having fun. A local Zumba class taught at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center shows that everyone enjoys coming to get an easy, but effective, workout. “It doesn’t matter what you look like,” says Kelly Bartsch, a regular at the Saturday morning Zumba class. Bartsch is 52 and says she “used to be scared to dance” but Zumba allows individuals to adjust the moves, and travel around the room wherever they want. Not to mention, she adds, it burns anywhere from 600-800 calories and you barely notice it is exercise because you’re having so much fun. Jan Bray, 62, agrees that everyone is there to have fun, not look a certain way. “We’re all in the same boat; we’re all focused on the footwork. That’s what I love about it, there’s no competition,” says Bray. Sheri Anstedt, the instructor, has a distinctive hip hop feel to her routines, but Maggie Haemann, first grade teacher in Parker, puts her own flair on moves by

making them more athletic. “I try to make it a really good workout,” says the 28-year-old Wheat Ridge local. “I try to keep moving and keep my heart rate up. I love all the rhythm and the steps, I love dance and sadly people our age don’t value it as much as they should.” Anstedt, an editor and writer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, has been teaching her class at the Wheat Ridge Rec Center for almost two years now, and Zumba is an absolute passion for her. After falling in love with her mentor’s class several years prior, Anstedt realized she had to take her love for “what was missing in my life” to the next level and became a certified instructor. “It pulls me completely into the present moment. I’m fully immersed in the moment and an hour will go by and I don’t notice,” she says. “You just get lost in it, and I think that’s an amazing thing. How many things do we have in our lives that do that? It’s playful it’s fun and it’s a workout.” Anstedt is certified to teach basic Zumba, but there are a variety of classes one can take; Zumba Gold for senior citizens, Water Zumba, Kids Zumba, Toning Zumba, and more. This new exercise trend is going to stick around because of its major fun factor and the ability to be molded by the individual instructors. “There are all these different flavors,” says Anstedt. “People should try Zumba and find which one is the right fit for them.” For more information on this story or future story ideas, email editor@ngazette. com

Medically Speaking E.R. Room Visit – When Is It Necessary? • Anytime a person has fallen and has severe pain and/or cannot move normally or is bleeding. tate survey shows 44 percent of E.R. • Anytime a person falls and has a visits are not urgent.” This was a suspicion or obvious evidence of a broken recent headline in a local newspaper. It is a bone. common story here in Colorado and around • If you have abdominal pain that the nation. is constant and severe, with or without In fact, 79 percent of Coloradans using vomiting or diarrhea. the emergency room for non-emergencies If you have any of the above situations, said they did so because it was after doctors’ call 911. Please do not drive hours. Nearly as many – 63 yourself to the E.R. percent – also said they were If you have a previously unable to get an appointment diagnosed problem such as to see their physician in what arthritis, gout, C.O.P.D., or other they felt was a timely manner. chronic condition, and are having Using the E.R. for nonsymptoms of the same, it is emergency reasons can lead probably best to call and make an to longer waits for all patients, appointment with your primary higher costs, and also use care physician (PCP). These valuable resources that are other situations can also usually scarce. One of the issues in wait for a PCP appointment: healthcare is access to the • Cold or allergy Jan Dionne, RN right care at the right time, • Aches and pains, and patients often don’t know • An injury like a scratch that is more how to determine when they should seek than a few days old, emergency care. • Headache that is mild to moderate So how does one know when it is an with no vision, speech or thought problems, emergency or a non-emergency? There are • Fever under 100.4 degrees F, definitely times when you should come to • Blood pressure, diabetes, medication, the E.R. vision or hearing testing, Here are some guidelines about when • Mild vomiting or diarrhea, you should call 911 and be seen in an E.R.: • Cough from a cold, or • If you are experiencing pain in your • Sunburn without blistering. chest, down the arm/arms, up into the jaw, Reducing non-emergency visits to the or in the teeth. This type of pain is usually E.R. can improve access to necessary care described as crushing and constant. for all. However, if someone feels they are • If you are experiencing shortness of experiencing a health emergency, they breath (when not exercising). should call 911 or visit the nearest E.R. • If you or a person you are with has suddenly experienced difficulty speaking, Jan Dionne is a board-certified clinical thinking clearly, moving the arms and legs, nurse specialist and program manager for or if you can see that the smile is crooked. the Senior ER at Exempla Lutheran Medical • Anyone who has lost consciousness, Center. even if for just a few seconds after falling.

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urban perspective Mapping Out Advanced Directives experiences helped shape my knowledge of the world. I am forever grateful for these lessons. n the 7th grade I was crowned school Recently my grandfather’s health champion of the National Geographic has declined significantly. There aren’t Geography Bee. The winning question was any maps to help us navigate the waters “Which continent is closest to Antarctica?” I ahead of us. It has been difficult to watch a was able to correct answer “South America” proud man become increasingly as the continent closest to dependent on nurses, doctors Antarctica. and other aides. Thankfully my My prowess in all things grandfather has been explicit in related to geography wasn’t his advance directives and wishes a direct correlation to my regarding his quality of life. formal education, but rather Even with his intentions being a byproduct of my time made clear, it remains difficult spent pouring over National for us as family members to Geographic magazines, maps, adhere to these wishes. It is and globes with my grandfather. unfathomable to think if his As a child I spent hours with wishes were unknown. It would my grandfather discussing Zachary Urban be near impossible to decipher different countries, areas of the what choices he would desire to be made world and associated geopolitical concerns. without having heard it from him directly. My grandparents were also frequent world It is a blessing as his health has diminished travelers. They would always send me post that he has taken this burden of choices cards from all corners of the globe. off the table. This has given us as a family Their time abroad included spending the chance to spend the time we have left over 10 years living in Tel Aviv. My enjoying his company instead of worrying if grandparents were living there during the the choices we make are the right ones. first Gulf War surviving scud missile attacks. If you have not done so, I would highly My grandpa was always able to bring home encourage you to have a discussion with an artifact, souvenir or other object that the ones you love regarding your advance would teach me more about the world. I was directives and related quality of life the only kid in grade school with my own decisions. It is an unbearable burden to ask Israeli Gas Mask. The best memories that a love one to make these kinds of decisions I have of my grandfather is when we would on your behalf. look over maps together. He would always Mapping out your decisions for the ones test my knowledge of different countries you love will lift an incredible burden from and landmarks. I am forever grateful to their shoulders. my grandparents for their willingness to Zachary Urban can be reached at 720share the world with me. My grandfather’s 252-5930 or www.zacharyurban.com. willingness to educate and to share in their

By Zachary Urban

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between all the schools and exchange best practices. In fact, the coming months will see t’s been over a month since Jeffco schools much more cooperation between all of our chief financial officer Lorie Gillis promised schools. It’s all part of the newly formed Wheat to get back to me with an answer to how Ridge Committee For Educational Excellence, much we spend on our advanced learners: promoting Wheat Ridge schools to Wheat $72 million is spent on special education, but Ridge families (see page 6 for the story). Don’t get polarized with an unspecified amount, less than these school board debates. It’s a $1 million, on students that need not about union contracts, board to be taught at a higher level? I members, or any other issues that haven’t heard from her. Ms. Gillis, have muddled the conversation. it’s called accountability. It’s OK to want change and still I’ve been asked, “Why are you support teachers. It’s OK to stand always writing about the advanced up for your child and demand learners?” Very simple, nobody accountability from the school. It’s else does. I very much support the also OK to speak at a board meeting need for special education, but about transparency. Participation what about students that figured validates an opinion, and opinions things out at a very young age and Guy Nahmiach need to be respected, by all sides. are cruising through life before Hopefully, in four years we’ll have even finishing elementary school? Don’t they have a right to be challenged in more than just 18 percent of voters cast a ballot. On a lighter note, Prospect Valley Elementary school? Principal Gomez over at Everitt Middle was excited to learn that their vegetable garden School talks about a need for change in would be included in this year’s Garden Tour, philosophy at the elementary level: Less focus as well as show off their music program. Well on content and more training on work ethics done, Ms. Jerman! If anyone ever needed to see and the process of learning. The gap between the results of funding music at this level, this elementary and middle schools has been too was it. This is my last column as a Prospect Valley great. Creating a seamless transition between sixth and seventh grade would help students parent. Thanks to the teachers, staff and hit the ground running when getting to middle principals that provided amazing care and love school. The same goes for their next step into to both of my children. I’d also like to thank them for voting for me high school. Basic skills – like concentrating on homework, time management for big and my friend Denise Miller as volunteers of projects and studying for exams – will serve the year. This fall, my son Dylan and I are headed to this young generation much more than the convoluted math investigations we have spent Everitt. Out of all the schools we visited, it was millions on, only to have students not knowing the amazing Mac computer lab that enticed my son to make Everitt his number-one choice. how to do simple long division. Wheat Ridge High school Principal Wirth Where did the time go? As always, thanks for reading. agrees. Every level should be preparing students Contact Guy Nahmiach at 303-999for the next. It all starts at the elementary level. He has been trying to increase communication 5789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

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neighborhood gazette – May 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – ngazette.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING Crown Hill Celebrates Memorial Day, May 24

Friday Night Live Begins June 6

Olinger Crown Hill Mortuary and Cemetery, 7777 W. 29th Ave., will stage free, family events over Memorial Day weekend, with a slew of special activities on Saturday, May 24. The Buckley Air Force Base Honor Guard kicks off the festivities at 10 a.m., followed by a Civil War program from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m., which includes an Abe Lincoln impersonator. The Queen City Jazz Band will perform 6-9 p.m., with fireworks at dusk.

Live Local is partnering with the First Friday Art Walk on 38th Avenue to host Friday Night Live, a free night of music, art, activities and food on Ridge at 38, June 6, 6-9 p.m., on the Wheat Ridge 5-8 Green, 7101 W. 38th Ave. Festivities will include a stage with live music all night (featuring bluegrass band Camptown and Stealth Hippo), live pottery demonstrations, performance art, food trucks and a stilt walker. Businesses and art galleries offering special activities for the art walk include Teller Street Gallery and Studios, The Art Lounge (inside Colorado Plus) Posey Girl Floral Boutique, Peter Damian Fine Jewelry and Antiques, Studio 38, The Penthouse Gallery, Right Coast Pizza, Ananda Art and Tattoo and Kataluma Chai.

For more information, call 303-2334611.

Jeffco LWV Presents Colorado Legislative Wrap-Up, May 28 The Applewood Unit of the Jefferson County League of Women Voters will discuss the accomplishments of the 2014 Colorado Legislative Session at its Wednesday, May 28 meeting, 9:15 a.m., at Westland Meridian, 10695 W. 17th Ave., Lakewood. The public is welcome. Call Ann at 303-988-6019 for information. The LWV also has an evening meeting for those unable to attend daytime meetings. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that neither supports nor opposes candidates from any party. The League’s mission is to promote informed and active participation in government and to influence public policy through education and advocacy after consideration by its members. Call 303-238-0032 or visit www. lwvjeffco.org for more information.

Chris Daniels and the Kings Highlight Leaves of Hope Run/Walk, June 1 This year’s Leaves of Hope Run/Walk will feature Colorado Music Hall of Famer and cancer survivor Chris Daniels. Held Sunday, June 1, 7:30 a.m. to noon, the seventh annual National Cancer Survivors Celebration and Health and Safety Expo will include a survivor’s breakfast, 5k/10k Run/Walk, free Kids’ Dash, 1-mile Family Fun Walk, music by Chris Daniels and the Kings, and exhibition booths. It will hosted by Exempla Lutheran Medical Center Foundation and Exempla Lutheran Medical Center at the hospital campus, 8300 W. 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge. Daniels is the keynote speaker and will join cancer survivors for breakfast, join in for the awards and perform music throughout the event. As many as 1,000 runners and survivors are expected to attend. Strollers and dogs on leashes are welcome. The Leaves of Hope Run/Walk is a 5k/10k certified race and includes a family-focused 1-mile walk to raise funds for Exempla Lutheran Medical Center’s cancer programs. The running and walking courses wind through the scenic Lutheran campus and through the tree-lined residential streets of Wheat Ridge. The run/walk kick-off the Cancer Survivors Celebration and Health and Safety Expo will feature live entertainment, speakers, food, fun, kids’ activities, health and safety exhibits and cancer education and resources. Runners can register on-line by May 30 for discounted fee at www.leavesofhope. org. In-person, race day registration opens at 7:30 a.m. Registration is free for nonracers and survivors to attend the Cancer Survivors Celebration. Lutheran Medical Center Foundation has raised more than $500,000 for the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Lutheran since 2008. Funds provide vital support for needs such as genetic counseling, survivorship and patient comfort. For more information, visit www. leavesofhope.org.

For more information, visit www. m e e t u p.c o m / L i v e Lo c a l W h e a t R i d g e / events/179597682/.

Wheat Ridge Talent Wanted for ‘Meet the Artist’ Series The Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission is looking for local performance artists of all types, as well as local businesses, to participate in a new series of Meet the Artist events beginning next October and extending into 2015. Organized by the Commission, the series introduces artists and businesses to the community in a casual setting that promotes the arts in Wheat Ridge. Expanding on the success of the third Thursday series that featured fine artists displaying their paintings, sculpture, photography and mixed media pieces, the next installment of the program will feature performance artists: musicians, singers, dancers, jugglers, actors, poets, or others who entertain through motion and/or audio senses. Artists need to have some professional experience and live or work in Wheat Ridge, and should be prepared to provide a short performance and to talk about their work to the gathering. Local businesses with a space conducive to hosting a performance artist and a gathering of Wheat Ridge residents, art connoisseurs, and fans are sought for one Thursday evening, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. during the fall, winter and spring months. Businesses are expected to provide light refreshments and help promote the event in exchange for the publicity, patronage and opportunity to share in one of the city’s cultural experiences. Interested artists should send a DVD, CD, or hyperlink to a website or video clip to Commissioner Michael Illo, 11302 W. 38th Ave., Wheat Ridge 80033, mike. illo@yahoo.com or call 720-628-3950. The application deadline for artists is June 30. Interested businesses should contact Commissioner David Balczo, dbalczo@ gmail.com or 720-982-4201.

Volunteers Wanted for Wheat Ridge Garden Tour, July 12 Volunteers are needed to check tickets at the homes on the 2104 Wheat Ridge Garden Tour. Contact Milly Nadler at 303-319-0690 or wheatridgegardentour@gmail.com if you’d like to volunteer. All help will be greatly appreciated. A waiting list is being created for the 2015 Garden Tour. Let Milly know if you would like to your garden to be featured along with some of our All-Star Gardens on the 2015 tour. Please support our local sponsors for your garden plants and supplies. For information visit our Facebook page orWheatRidgeGardenTour.com.

THE INAUGURAL KITE FLITE FESTIVAL brightened Anderson Park Saturday, April 26. Hundreds of kite enthusiasts enjoyed a wide variety of family activities. These proud art students displayed their winning creations during the Festival.

Wheat Ridge Reads About Lindbergh Kidnapping The Wheat Ridge Cultural Commission’s choice for the summer’s Wheat Ridge Reads program is “The Sixteenth Rail: The Evidence, the Scientist, and the Lindbergh Kidnapping,” a compelling true story of forensic science, criminal law, and American history, written by Adam J. Schrager, a former 9News investigative reporter and University of Denver journalism instructor. The reading program encourages a community literary experience during the summer months, culminating in two community discussions about the book in September. The book is available at Jefferson County libraries, in local bookstores, and in e-book format. “The Sixteenth Rail” tells the tale of a mild-mannered forensic scientist, Arthur Koehler, whose diligence would help solve the 20th century’s greatest crime. Koehler was called the Sherlock Holmes of his era for his work tracing the ladder used to kidnap Charles Lindbergh’s son to the culprit. Schrager also wrote “The Principled Politician,” the story of former Colorado governor Ralph Carr, and “The Blueprint: How the Democrats Won Colorado (and Why Republicans Everywhere Should Care).” He recently finished “Tall Paul,” a biography of former Arizona governor and Senator Paul Fannin, which will be published later this year. For more information, contact Gay Porter DeNileon, 303-274-4066 or gp denileon@gmail.com.

Fruitdale School: The Next Performance & Arts Center? The historic 1927 Fruitdale School, at 10801 W. 44th Ave., now has a chance to be a performance and art education center for Wheat Ridge. Colorado Arts Consortium, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is taking the lead to bring together interested art parties and benefactors to present the plan in response to the City of Wheat Ridge’s RFI (Request for Interest), due by June 30. The city has given the Temple Hoyne Buell designed historic building an architectural assessment and evaluation of abatement and upgrade costs, and its is estimated it will take $2 million to get the local landmark in shape for public use, according to Paul Noel Fiorino, Wheat Ridge resident and president of the Golden Triangle Museum District. Fiorino is spearheading the effort, and has been active in helping save historic buildings in Denver. Of personal historic note, Buell hired and brought to Colorado Fiorino’s father, an architect. Historic Denver and History Colorado already have their “foot in the door” according to Fiorino; the State Historic Fund has provided grants for a Historic Structure and Preservation Plan. The Consortium, created in 1978, has been instrumental in establishing arts councils throughout the

state; Fiorino said he has “refreshed” the organization over the last several years, and it is seeking additional interested parties to make the center possible. At press, Fiorino was scheduled to meet with and visit the school site with Wheat Ridge officials. To learn more or become involved in the project, call Fiorino at 303-825-7570.

Changes Coming to Carnation Festival, Aug. 15-16 The 45th annual Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival is set for Aug. 15-16, and organizers have announced upgrades to re-energize and re-vamp the event. The Festival is one of the oldest and longest running festivals in Colorado, hosting over 25,000 visitors over two days. Upgrades include a NEW 38th Avenue Fair at the end of the parade on Sat, Aug 16th. The Festival has NEW HOURS from 4-11pm with an expanded beer garden and food court, and revised, less-congested midway. Fun kids activities will be available in the Kids Zone plus fireworks and the famous spaghetti dinner both nights! A new ticketing system will allow the purchase of food, beverages, kids rides, games or activities and circus tickets with official “Festival Fun” tickets; only merchandise vendors will have cash sales. Sponsor and vendor applications are being accepted online at www. thecarnationfestival.com; space is limited so act quickly. Zoppe’ circus ticket sales will begin June 1; visit www.zoppecolorado.com for details. For Festival information or to volunteer, call Joey DeMott, 303-929-4608, or Gina Hallisey, 303-726-6111; email carnationfestinfo@gmail.com; or visit www.thecarnationfestival.com.

Avoiding Lines, Hassles at DMV It seems it is always busy at Jefferson County Motor Vehicles Offices, but there are ways to avoid lines and long waits. Carolyn Carver, of the Clerk and Recorders Office, offers these tips for easy vehicle registration. Be prepared, and bring the appropriate documents. The following may be required: • Title • License plate number • VIN number • Insurance • Emissions • Photo ID Avoid heavy traffic times: • Mondays and Fridays • Before and after a holiday • First and last days of the month • Lunch time (11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.) For more information visit the Motor Vehicle web page and follow the Clerk and Recorder’s Office on Twitter @JeffcoClerk.

ngazette.com – May 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – neighborhood gazette

Senior FocuS New Senior Health Promotion Clinic Needs Your Help By Laurie Hanselmann

n conjunction with Colorado Senior Connections Wheat Ridge, a NORC project, HealthSET is proud to announce the opening of its newest Health Promotion Clinic in Wheat Ridge, at the Highland South Apartments. What is a NORC, you ask? Naturally occurring retirement communities, or NORCs, are places where community residents have aged in place, having lived in their homes for several decades, or are the result of significant migrations of older adults into the same housing developments or neighborhoods, where they intend to spend the rest of their lives. The Wheat Ridge project will offer case management and social work services, healthcare programs, education, social and recreational activities, and volunteer opportunities for people to build community and improve the welfare of all residents. This program will also bring many isolated seniors back into the community and get them the care and services they deserve. In partnership with Jewish Family Service of Colorado, Seniors’ Resource Center and the Jefferson Center for Mental Health, and thanks to the generous support of the Colorado Health Foundation, HealthSET’s major contribution to Colorado Senior Connections Wheat Ridge is this new clinic. HealthSET is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of the lowincome elderly for the past 25 years. Based on a successful model in Milwaukee, it was started by a group of nuns who found a gap in health care and other services for Denver’s low-income seniors. Highly-skilled and compassionate staff and volunteers

have provided free Health Promotion Clinics and substantial follow-up care to Denver’s low-income seniors, acting as a bridge to the complex health care and social service systems ever since. These clinics rely on volunteer nurses, client advocates, pharmacists, dieticians, interpreters and greeters to give our community’s most vulnerable seniors the tools to live independently, which is essential to preserving their quality of life. One such senior, Margaret, visited a HealthSET clinic where a volunteer nurse immediately realized she was experiencing stroke-like symptoms. Paramedics were called and arrived on the scene within minutes. Margaret was anxious and resistant to go with the paramedics, and in a trembling whisper she asked that a HealthSET nurse accompany her to the emergency room. At the hospital the doctors found that Margaret was having multiple “mini” strokes that morning and had a heart attack that afternoon. Fortunately, no disabling complications resulted from either of her cardiovascular events and she was able to return to living independently. If not for the accessibility of the HealthSET clinic and the quick response from staff and volunteers, Margaret’s outcome could have been very different. It is stories like this that showcase the importance of projects like Colorado Senior Connections Wheat Ridge, nonprofits like HealthSET, and the volunteers that make them possible. HealthSET is looking for dedicated volunteers of all abilities, especially nurses, to staff this new clinic as well as help in the other 19 locations across metro Denver. To learn more about how you can assist the elderly in your community email me, Laurie Hanselmann, Volunteer Coordinator, at lauriehanselmann@centura.org or visit healthset.org.

Free Help to Connect Seniors With Public Benefits By J. Patrick O’Leary

heat Ridge Senior Connections will kick off a summer-long “Benefits Blitz” this month to help seniors enroll in public benefit programs they are qualified for. There’s no cost, and volunteers will assist participants in filling out paperwork. “There’s a really big push to do this right now” at the state level, says Alison Joucovsky, Program Coordinator. “There are something like twenty thousand seniors who should be receiving [benefits] but aren’t.” The money is there, but is lost if people don’t apply for and receive it. Wheat Ridge seniors are invited to show up one Tuesday a month, 10 a.m. to noon, starting May 20, at Ye Olde Firehouse, 3232 N. Depew St., to be interviewed and determine what benefits, if any, they are qualified for. Additional dates are June 17, July 22 and Aug. 19. Dates and location for Edgewater screenings will be announced later. Connecting people to benefits is nothing new for Joucovsky, and both Edgewater and Wheat Ridge Senior Connections – both programs of Jewish Family Services – advise on benefits eligibility as a matter of routine when talking with seniors. “We’ve never done an actual outreach plan (for this). It fits really well with the goal of what we’re trying to do,” she said. Public benefits include SNAP (Supplemental Food Assistance Program, more commonly known as food stamps), Medicare Savings, and Medicaid. “We will make sure we are screening them for all programs, not just SNAP,” said Joucovsky. “SNAP doesn’t look at assets, just income. Other programs do look at

RIDGE AT 38 1/2 H

assets, although those (asset thresholds) are fairly low.” For example, qualification for SNAP includes income less than $1,580 per month, but if an applicant has medical expenses, he or she may still qualify, even with a higher income. “They’ll come in and fill out a ‘screening tool’ which allows us to look at which programs they qualify for. “From there, we’ll set up time to meet and fill out forms and gather documents – making sure they’re helped throughout the entire process.” “It’s a 20+ page document…it’s not easy…it’s not simple,” Joucovsky explained. “But it’s all one single application.” Joucovsky realized there was often duplicated effort when applying for benefits. “There’s an insurance guy who was helping with getting people into Medicare Savings,” she explained, but he didn’t know the same application could be used to apply for other public benefits at the same time. She said Centura has a free program for enrolling seniors in Part D Medicaid, and they have been asked to work with metroarea nonprofits to get 700 applications. Wheat Ridge Senior Connection’s goal is 100. Seniors are welcome to call and make an individual appointment, she said. It is not necessary to attend the monthly screenings. Volunteers are welcome to help with the screenings and filling out applications, and will be trained. “All in all, it goes with our program, which is to connect people with all resources,” she said, which includes dental care, social visits and volunteer opportunities. For more information, contact Alison Joucovsky at 720-248-4591. Do you have a news item, calendar listing or suggestion for Senior Focus? Email them to editor@ngazette.com

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – MAY 16 - JUNE 17, 2014 – ngazette.com

Criterium

Common Bike RaceTerms

Continued from page 1

Road Bike Race Attack: A sudden acceleration to move ahead of another rider or group of riders. Bonk: Sometimes called “hitting the wall,” bonking is a state of severe exhaustion caused mainly by the depletion of glycogen in the muscles when the rider has run out of fuel, usually carbohydrates. Once it occurs, rest and high-carb foods are necessary for recovery. Drafting: One or more riders ride single file behind another rider, taking advantage of that rider’s slipstream. By doing so, the rider behind has less of a headwind and gets a breather. In a crosswind, riders may ride in a diagonal line. Drafting is a key tactic in most bicycle races. Peloton: The main group of racers. With its dozens of colorful jerseys, maneuvering for position and breakneck speeds, the peloton (also called “the pack”) can be quite a sight. Tactically, the peloton is an example of large-scale drafting; in addition to being a moving mass of riders, it’s also a moving mass of air. Thus, the wind feels still to the riders inside the peloton, making it easier to maintain speed. Riders outside the peloton, particularly the leaders, have to buck the wind the whole time, which tires them more quickly. Prime: A special award given to the leader on selected laps during a criterium, or the first rider to reach a certain landmark in a road or cross-country race. It’s used to heighten the action. Pronounced “preem.”

others. However, this does mark the largest bike race for Wheat Ridge, entirely within its borders, with the possibility of hundreds of participating riders. For experienced bike riders, a criterium may be their ﬁrst actual race. Usually riders to learn tactics and get accustomed to riding with a group, join a local club on rides. In the Denver area, there are countless riding clubs and events. “It’s fun to see a bike race come back to Wheat Ridge”, said Kiefel, who added that WRC will open early on race day. WRC is providing neutral support for the racers. To volunteer or learn more about the Ridge at 38 Criterium, contact Mara Owen at 720-2591030 or to pre-register visit http://ridgeat38. com/play/2014criterium/ or https://www. usacycling.org/register/2014-1766 For more information on this story or future story ideas, email editor@ngazette. com

For additional terminology and to learn more about bike racing visit RoadBiking.org and Roadbiker.com

Yes! I want to help the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation A complete listing of programs is available at wheatridgefoundation.org – including programs for crime prevention, open space, holiday lighting, performances in the park, memorial trees, food assistance and six scholarship funds, including the Curtis J. Gilmore Lifelong Learning Scholarship Fund. My gift of $________________________________enclosed. Please direct my gift to: _______________________________________________________ NOTE: Please include the program name on your check – thank you! Please make checks payable to Wheat Ridge Community Foundation

SPEAKS ORTHO 1/6

WRCF 1/6

Name: Address: City, State, Zip: Email:

The Wheat Ridge Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax deductible. Please return this form, along with your contribution, designating the programs you wish to support to:

Wheat Ridge Community Foundation 4005 Kipling Street, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

or donate online today at www.wheatridgefoundation.org

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