Neighborhood Gazette August 2013 by Neighborhood Gazette

Labor Day & Hard-Working Americans see page 5

Exotic Circus Meets Exotic Cars see page 9

Volunteers Needed for Celtic Festival see page 10

Gazette NEIGHBORHOOD

Wheat Ridge | Edgewater | AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013

Mid-Century and Modern Home Tour Unveils the Unexpected

he 2013 Mid Century and Modern Wheat Ridge Home Tour takes place Saturday, Sept. 7, 1-5 p.m., sponsored by Wheat Ridge 2020 and modmood/RETRO Consignment. In 2011 300 tickets were sold for the inaugural, biannual event. Visitors got ﬁrsthand look at the charm of Wheat Ridge vintage homes and those that have been renovated to capture the modern style. This year’s tour features six showcase homes. While Wheat Ridge roots are grounded in an agricultural-based heritage, the City of Wheat Ridge possesses another subtle yet quite coveted identity. A western suburb of

Denver, Wheat Ridge is rich in some of the most remarkable examples of mid-century modern residential architecture in the Front Range. A limited number of tickets will be available at $15 per person prior to the event on Wheat Ridge 2020’s web site. Unsold tickets may be purchased day of the event for $20 at modmood/RETRO Consignment, 7700 W. 44th Ave. All tickets include an after party. Volunteers are needed to help visitors through the homes and assist the homeowners, working a 2-1/2-hour shift, and will receive one complimentary tour ticket. Potential volunteers should contact Wheat Ridge 2020 at 720-259-1030 or kim@wheatridge2020.org. The proceeds from the event go to beneﬁt Wheat Ridge 2020, a nonproﬁt 501(c)3. Wheat Ridge 2020’s mission is to advance the city as a vibrant and sustainable community. Tour sponsors also include Blue Iron Photography, Vinyl Works, and Dana Cain Events (The Denver Modernism Show). For more information and tickets, visit www.WheatRidge2020.org.

IN TRUE FARMER-TO-MARKET FASHION, True Roots Farm owners Christa (left) and Shannon display and sell their Wheat Ridge-grown organic produce at the Edgewater Farmer’s Market and Music, every Thursday evening from 5 to 8 p.m., through Sept. 12. True Roots Farm has four farmers/owners. Their farm stand is open Tuesdays 4 to 7p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon at 6230 W. 38th Ave. PHOTO BY CYNDY BEAL

Volunteers Make the Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival Go Around BY DANA R. BUTLER

tate Senator Cheri Jahn is a proud representative of Colorado’s District 20 and, more so, a long-time resident of Wheat Ridge. As such, she well remembers the process the citizens underwent to incorporate in 1969, and the new city’s first birthday party in 1970, an event that celebrated the community’s agricultural roots, especially its historical designation as the largest producer of carnations in the world. Jahn’s appreciation of the work done by the Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival’s volunteers began even before she joined their ranks and was magnified in 2008 when she became chair. Putting on the Festival each year, she says, “…takes a really great team (and a very dedicated one). We have a good 21 that actively work on this throughout the year, each person working on different aspects. For the actual event, we take every volunteer to come forward to help work through the Festival weekend.” One of the Festival’s best-loved volunteers is Walt Pettit, a devoted member of the Wheat Ridge Rotary Club since 1996. In 2000, Pettit’s good friend, ex-mayor and then-festival chair Dan Wilde suggested the club join forces with the Carnation Festival, selling root beer floats as a fundraiser for the club and a fun and frosty treat for Festival attendees. Pettit became the Rotary’s representative when it came to Festival activities, and his involvement grew from there. He was even honored as the Carnation Festival “Count” in 2003, a mark of distinction he remembers as “humbling.” In 2004, the Festival’s beer concession was up for grabs, and the Rotary Club adopted it, annually raising money for

A DEDICATED VOLUNTEER assists festival attendees at the welcome booth during the 2012 Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival.

Transcript, drawn by “the dedication and commitment of the Wheat Ridge community.” Regardless of the impetus behind each person’s involvement with the Carnation Festival, they all agree that the volunteers are the heart and soul of the event. “We wouldn’t have a festival without the volunteers,” says Patrick. “It’s that simple. Their time and hard work make the Festival the pride of Wheat Ridge.” “Without our volunteers, this event just doesn’t happen,” agrees Jahn. “This is one of those events where ‘Teamwork’ comes

with a capital T!” So do you have what it takes to be a Carnation Festival volunteer? Who are these people, anyway? “A typical festival volunteer is just a funloving resident who loves to come join the fun,” says Jahn. “We can always use some more good hands!” Pettit puts it more succinctly: “Without the ongoing and continued support of volunteers from our community, we will likely see the festival fail and become a Continued on page 11

PHOTO BY BLU IRON PHOTOGRAPHY

the Club’s community service efforts throughout the year. This also marked the year Pettit formally joined the Carnation Festival Committee and took on the facilities management duties, ensuring that canopies, tables, chairs and more, are in place and ready for the weekend. As of last year, Pettit became ﬁrst vice chairman of the newly reorganized Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival Board of Directors. In contrast, this will be only the third year that Milly Nadler has worked for the Festival, but her short tenure in no way dampens her enthusiasm. Her work experience belies her limited history with the event. “I’ve been the keeper of the vendor paperwork, help vendors move into their spots, but I’ve also run the chili cook-off and helped out at the Welcome Tent,” says the former math teacher, who was looking for meaningful volunteer work post-retirement. Michelle Patrick, the Festival’s communications guru, became aware of the volunteering opportunities here when she was working for the Wheat Ridge

Mark, Get Set, and Go at the Farmers 5000, Sept. 15

he Wheat Ridge Farmers 5000 fundraising foot race is set for Sun., Sept. 15, at Wheat Ridge High School, 9505 W. 32nd Ave. Featuring a flat, fast course on neighborhood streets with cash and door prizes, the 30+-year-old race raises money for the school and promotes physical fitness and community spirit. The 5k race begins at 9 a.m., trailed by a 1K fun-run at 10 a.m. There is a $100 cash prize for the first place overall male and female runners, and prizes for first through third place in all age groups. There will be a drawing for door prizes after the race. Winners must be present to claim their prizes. The 5K race costs $30 and includes a technical t-shirt, snacks, entertainment and entry into the raffle drawing. The fun run is $5.

Registration at Wheat Ridge High School before the race is available, Wednesday through Friday, Sept. 11-13, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 14, 9 a.m.1 p.m. Registration is also available on race day, 7 a.m.-8:30 a.m. Off-site registration is also available from Sept. 1 until Sept. 14 (noon) at Runners Roost Lakewood, 7978 W. Alameda, and Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling. Online registration is available at www. active.com at http://beta.active.com/ wheat-ridge-co/running/running-eventfarmers-5000-2013. Pick up an informational packet at Wheat Ridge High School during the registration times, or on race day. To register for the elementary or middle school challenges, please see the representative at your school. The cost for the challenges is $10.

NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – ngazette.com

Gazette

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

NEIGHBORHOOD

Tim Berland 303-995-2806 e-mail: editor@ngazette.com www.ngazette.com 4385 Wadsworth Blvd., #140, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Publication date is the 15th of each month. Advertising: Vicki Ottoson 303-777-6144 or Tim Berland 303-995-2806 Copy Editing/Proofreading: J. Patrick O’Leary, Cyndy Beal & Meredith Thaler

Find Me! This crabby collegue is located somewhere else in this issue, find him and

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

Above the Crowd as a Leader in Sales of Homes in Wheat Ridge • 5280 Magazine Best of Realtors Recognition • Roundtable of Excellence Denver Area Realtors Assoc. • President, Wheat Ridge Business Association • Wheat Ridge Business Person of the Year • Resident of Wheat Ridge

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A Word About Election Coverage BY TIM BERLAND

he 2013 election is a few months away, and candidates, campaigners and citizens are starting to ramble on and ruminate about community decisions on the November ballot. Aside from last fall’s election to disband Edgewater’s historic ﬁre department and allow Wheat Ridge Fire Protection District to provide public safety services, we at The Neighborhood Gazette have not covered this community’s elections. So, what will change? Nothing, we hope. We will strive to provide accurate, balanced coverage of any ballot issue, and equal, simultaneous editorial space to candidates vying for the same ofﬁce. We won’t play favorites. We will not endorse any candidate or ballot issue. We’ve asked our regular contributors to refrain from using their editorial space to campaign for or endorse any candidate or

Tree Stewardship Volunteers Needed Thank you for the story you wrote in the April-May issue of the Neighborhood Gazette about the IES Wheat Ridge Revive the Greenbelt! project. As the next step of the project IES has trained a group of community volunteers to maintain and monitor the 200 new trees and shrubs in the Greenbelt. We currently have 12 amazing people taking care of the plants in the Greenbelt. We are looking for more. Thanks to the dedicated volunteer efforts of these local volunteers, the new shrubs and trees are beating the odds and thriving. Colorado State Forester Keith Wood evaluated the progress of the project last week, and commented that the plants were doing great. The strong community support, along with collaboration with the City of Wheat Ridge, means that the Institute for Environmental Solutions will be able to apply for additional grant funding to support expanded efforts to help save the threatened ecological resources. The current and future efforts will make a big difference in improving environmental and health beneﬁts in Wheat Ridge and the area. Please contact me at 503-432-0107 or

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Why Not Give 38th Avenue a Chance? A slower 38th Avenue makes it easier to see businesses on both sides of the street. We have eaten and shopped at places we used to whiz by when it was four lanes. Restaurants, especially Right Coast, Colorado Plus and La Fonda seem busy each evening and at lunchtime as well. As a longtime resident in the 38th area, I like the slower pace of trafﬁc and the turn lanes. Teller Street Gallery is bringing new energy along 38th as well. Heinie’s on 44th is always hopping, as well as the new restaurant on West 29th and Depew. We are getting positive media attention, in radio, print and television, for revival of 38th and Wheat Ridge as a whole. Why not give it a chance? Change isn’t always easy, but progress can be positive. It’s all about how you look at it. Cheryl Brungardt, Wheat Ridge

GUEST EDITORIAL Who Owns the Future?

Your Real Estate “Guy”

Van Carver

Contact Publisher Tim Berland at tberland@ngazette.com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Advice is Always Free 303 999-5789 van carver 1/12 H Guy@NostalgicHomes.com

issue on the upcoming ballot. This does not mean they should remain silent on current legislation and regulations coming before them in the course of their duties as public officials. Our regular contributors and staff may endorse or campaign for any candidate or ballot issue as individuals, but need to make it clear they are acting as individuals, and not representing The Neighborhood Gazette. As always, any member of the public may submit a letter to the editor or guest editorial regarding candidates or issues. We want to give all sides a voice, however we have limits on space. So, we will be making tough decisions about which letters or editorials will be published. And finally, advertising for candidates or ballot issues are advertising, and will be identified as such. We reserve the right to refuse advertising we deem to be libelous, offensive or in poor taste.

BY GUY NAHMIACH

aiting for the light to turn green I found myself staring at the Louise Turner Park sign. I tried to imagine what it must have been like for her and her brave band of friends in 1969: Under tremendous pressure to be swallowed up by Lakewood or Golden and maybe even Denver itself, they decided to create a town by the name of Wheat Ridge. They were determined to build place that would attract families and working men and women, a place to call home. Imagine the hurdles and challenges. It would have been easier to just follow the trend and keep doing what everyone was already doing. I was driving back from the rec center community meeting, where I heard a young man share that he was the only one of his friends who grew up in Wheat Ridge and stayed – the rest all moved away. As I pulled into my driveway, I noticed my daughter sitting outside with her iPad. These last few days, she’s been preoccupied with starting her IB program at Lakewood. Not sure of “what or where the future

holds” she tells me. I slip in a quick question: “Danielle, would you consider Wheat Ridge as a place to come back and raise your family?” Without hesitating, she answers “No.” I wonder just how many feel that way. Tonight, while I did hear a few seniors voice their wish for things not to change, I wondered how many are being excluded when we make plans for the future. I would love to ﬁnd out how Wheat Ridge can become a more viable option for the next generation, the high school and college students who will someday decide where to live and raise a family. Would your kids consider Wheat Ridge as a future home? Are they aware of our established trees, neighborhoods, amazing schools and places to eat and socialize? What I am missing? Why did that young man’s friends all move away? Young Louise Turner and her band of visionaries were marching towards something. What’s making our younger generation march away? Contact Guy Nahmiach at Guy@NostalgicHomes.com or 303-999-5789.

ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – neighborhood gazette

NOSTALGIC FULL

neighborhood gazette – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – ngazette.com

Wheat Ridge City NeWs

We’re Expanding!

38th Avenue Survey results pedestrian paths from Harlan St. to the west. However, based on the survey responses, I believe the two-lane road diet experiment hope you are enjoying our mild late summer has caused a lot of headaches for motorists weather! Today the word “survey” is used as well as residents who live on the side most often to describe a method of gathering streets on both sides of 38th. information from a sample of individuals. As you may know, I was on City This “sample” is usually a fraction of the Council when we improved the sidewalks, population, and in the 38th Avenue Survey landscaping, lighting and streetscape on I recently conducted, the sample consisted 38th Avenue from Sheridan Blvd. to Harlan of residents and businesses familiar with St. We did the project right the the 38th Avenue two-lane road first time, without impacting diet from Sheridan Blvd. to the flow of traffic with narrowed Wadsworth Blvd. The survey lanes and planters. The changes was open to everyone and I at the time received numerous intentionally did not survey a accolades from the community “controlled” population. The and attracted new businesses. professional survey software is I will be giving the survey a 3rd party software which has data to each member of City checks and balances to prevent Council and it is my hope that duplicate survey responses from they will study the data, read the same computer. The 38th the comments and reconsider Avenue Survey was completed the two-lane road diet, eliminate by 318 people. The survey ran Jerry DiTullio the back-in parking and add from July 11, 2013 through functional bike lanes all the way from August 11, 2013. Sheridan to Wadsworth. 38th Avenue is Below is a view of the survey data from a work in progress, but it’s also part of the one of the questions. To view all of the survey metro transportation system. I think it’s results and the open-ended comments, please time to look at the project objectively and visit my website at www.jerryditullio.com. make some adjustments. Thank you to I do support the new energy, the new everyone who took the time to complete the events, the new businesses and the goal survey. Your voice has been heard. of enhanced streetscape, bike paths and

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UNdeR the dome New Things Brewing in Jeffco things we discard and the possibility of new uses. MillerCoors is really raising the bar for all of us. was somewhat surprised when I recently I needed to talk to some professionals read that the MillerCoors Brewery in to learn about sustainable options for my Golden was a zero waste-to-landfill facility. family and for the county. I talked to Scott My first thought was, did I read that correctly? Hutchings from Waste Management and That giant beer-making factory he told me his company is very does not put anything in the involved in recycling. He said garbage? I had to talk to someone they still haul items to landfill, at MillerCoors to see how that but the industry is changing and could be true. Phil Savastano, the more items that used to be trash Brewery Vice President, told me, are being diverted to other uses. yes, they don’t throw anything Scott said the market is changing away. They recycle, they reuse, and people want options in their they compost, and whatever disposal services. And waste else they can think of to keep the companies are responding by garbage cans empty! providing different services to Bob Hunt, MillerCoors’ meet this changing demand. He Government Affairs Director, Casey Tighe feels there will likely always be a told me they were surprised by need for landfill as an option, but many of his how quickly they achieved the zero landfill customers want to see more recycling and goal. He said the employees embraced the more composting. Scott also reminded me concept and everything just took off. The of the new state law requiring responsible key to success was providing employees the disposal of electronic devices. system to do what most already did at home. I next talked to some citizens who are As an added benefit, the brewery is also very involved with sustainability. These folks making additional revenue off of the recycled are from a group called Evergreen’s Alliance materials, so the effort also makes good for Sustainability or EAS+Y. They are citizens business sense. I could tell that the people at interested in, among other things, helping MillerCoors were very excited and proud of make recycling choices easier for citizens what they had accomplished. and businesses in Jefferson County. High Their excitement made me think about on their priority list is educating people on what Jefferson County is doing in this local options for recycling and making public area. Like most of my neighbors, I support events zero waste. In 2012 the EAS+Y Zero recycling and over the years I have become Waste Event Committee helped 22 public better about being responsible for how I events divert tons of materials that was dispose of things. Within the county buildings otherwise headed to the landfill. we have the blue containers for cans and Waste reduction is only one aspect of plastics, and separate bins for paper, but sustainability. I also had some discussions like my household, the facilities operations are not zero-waste. In order to take it to the next level, we need to consider all the other Continued on page 11

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ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – neighborhood gazette

EdgEwatEr City nEws

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Save Our Solar System coffees a long-time resident of Edgewater gave life to the Save Our Solar System project. As a result the original artwork of any residents have commented on the the 6th graders is going to be removed from historical events which I occasionally the sidewalk with the hope of preserving refer to in my column. This month I would and restoring the brilliant colors of the like to remind us about the mosaic tiles on children’s mosaics. To do this we the south side of 25th Avenue. need your help. In 2002 the 6th grade To return the art to its class at Edgewater Elementary original state we need to find composed tile mosaics of the Sun color photos of the tile mosaics. and each of the planets in our If you have or know of someone solar system. These pieces of art who might have photos of this were dedicated to the victims of project, please let me know. We 9/11 and placed in the sidewalk are also looking for the names along 25th. The brightly colored of the teachers and the original tile-mosaics started with the Sun 6th-grade artists who created this at Memorial Park and radiated wonderful and unique collection eastward, according to their Bonnie McNulty of Edgewater art. I can be relative distances from the Sun. reached via phone or email and Yes, Pluto was still a planet back look forward to Saving Our Solar System. then, and is just a few feet west of Sheridan. Please come to coffee on Wednesday Every time I walk down 25th I remember mornings from 9-11 a.m. at the Edgewater the children’s project and wonder how Coffee Company, 5224 W. 25th Ave., and I to bring it back to its original glory. The will buy your coffee (or tea). Or call me and I mosaics were so shiny and pretty – well, will make arrangements to meet with you at until folks started slipping on the smooth a time that works with your schedule. porcelain tiles. The city was obligated to make the sidewalks safer for pedestrians Edgewater mayor Bonnie McNulty and ended up grinding the mosaics until all can be reached at 303-233-6216 or bjmc of their color and shine were lost. nulty2@comcast.net. During one of my Wednesday morning

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EdgEwatEr City CounCil Labor Day and the Hard-Working American economies. We must invest in our skilled trades. We are a nation of builders, and that is literally called a gentleman “sir” the other day. He the foundation upon which we thrive. Our told me not to call him sir. He worked for a skilled trades can be enhanced by furthering living. I called him sir again. I was speaking affordable educational opportunities and with a friend who is paid less for doing the partnering with all businesses in need of same work as her male counterpart. Over skilled labor. We can also continue to repair the last 40 years, black and Latino folks our infrastructure through in Colorado have lost ground much needed civil projects. economically compared to white Furthermore, let’s invest in folks. Many jobs do not pay a programs that support the livable wage. Some persons with working poor in acquiring skills developmental disabilities earn to become more economically as little as 22 cents an hour. independent. Let’s spend our These are a few experiences of tax dollars on social programs the American worker. that support self-worth through I believe in the hard-working employment and education. American. We come in all shapes All human beings, regardless and sizes, ages, colors, genders; of economic circumstances hence, we are proud individuals. and personal situation, deserve No matter how many differences Kris Teegardin equal access to a solid education. are portrayed, we share more It is the backbone of opportunity and the similarities than we are sometimes willing universal breeding ground where ideas to admit. We aspire to the same hopes and knowledge have met to advance all and dreams. We face the same problems civilizations past and present. and share the same solutions across our The American dream is ignited by the communities. Even in times of economic prospect of economic freedom. Hard work uncertainty, I will always put my money on and determination is the fuel that drives us my fellow American. to believe upward economic mobility is a Because the global market has reality. We cannot reach those goals without affected our workforce and businesses community commitment. The health of so dramatically, we must support our our communities is equal to the success we communities first. Our small business share in the global economy. owners are directly affected by the health Happy Labor Day America. I choose to of our communities, and the health of invest in the work you do. our communities greatly benefit from their success. We must retain and Edgewater Councilman Kris Teegardin stimulate the entrepreneurial spirit so can be reached at 720-568-0461 or kteewe can remain competitive with multigardin@edgewaterco.com. national corporations and other national

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neighborhood gazette – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – ngazette.com

Handicapped Parking scofflaws Facing Higher Fines By J. PatriCk o’Leary

fter two city council meetings, city staff and public testimony, and a mayoral veto and override vote, Wheat Ridge will be fining motorists $225 if caught illegally parking in spaces reserved for the handicapped. The saga began on June 11, when Wheat Ridge City Council considered a bill on parking penalties, replacing the existing tiered system of graduated penalties for misuse of a handicapped parking space with a single $300 fine. Testimony by Wheat Ridge Police Chief Dan Brennan and Court Administrator Kersten Armstrong convinced all but councilmen Mike Stites and Joseph DeMott that it should be lowered to $150, as that was upper end of penalties in surrounding areas, said Brennan, and a fine that high may result in more people fighting their tickets, resulting in higher court costs for the city, according to Armstrong. Armstrong also pointed out that a 4-point traffic violation only carried a $120 fine, and that a motorist caught speeding in a school zone would be assessed $240. As a result, council voted to amend the bill to set the fine at $150, with Stites and DeMott objecting. Mayor Jerry DiTullio told council they would have his veto message the next morning. The final bill – which also contained a provision changing fines for oversized vehicles – passed 6-1 over Stites’ nay. Later in the session, council member Tracy Langworthy expressed concern that a ticket for speeding in a school zone or running a traffic light would be less than one for parking in a handicapped space. DiTullio addressed her remarks by stating Wheat Ridge needed to be a leader in dealing with illegal parking in handicapped spaces, regardless of what other cities are doing.

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DiTullio vetoed the ordinance, and an override vote was on the agenda June 24. Four people testified and asked council to keep the high penalty and not to override the veto, citing respect for civil rights and deterrence as reasons. One speaker, Gina Robinson of the Colorado Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities, told council that 11 handicapped parking placards are in circulation for every person who legitimately has one, citing that there were 183,000 people with mobility impairments in the state, yet 1.2 million blue tags were issued. “We need to do something to get them off the street. We need to do something to get them out of people’s cars. And we need to do something to stop them from ordering them off the Internet at $10 a pop,” she said, concluding that she wouldn’t order one if the fine was $350. Robinson also cited a previous study of the average times handicapped persons had to wait for a parking space – with a record 90 minutes at a Wheat Ridge medical facility – and that a quarter of the study participants opted to skip their appointment and return home. She concluded her testimony by recounting her visit to the Red Lobster restaurant on Wadsworth earlier in the day, in which all five handicapped parking spaces were occupied, but only one vehicle was legitimately there. Although council overrode the mayor’s veto 7-1 (Stites opposed), they unanimously voted to reconsider the bill. Council member Joyce Jay moved to amend it by raising the fine to $225, and Pond seconded. Stites moved to up the penalty higher, to $295, but it that failed for lack of a second. The amended bill passed 8-0. DiTullio told The Gazette later that his veto was meant to encourage further dialogue and develop a win-win policy with regards to the penalty for illegal parking.

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Why sleep Matters to your Health are significantly higher in people who sleep six hours or less per night. It is even higher in individuals whose sleep quality illions of Americans routinely try to is compromised by sleep-related breathing get by on five to six hours of sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep per night. Yet it is an established fact in the apnea. For patients with severe untreated medical literature that most adults require obstructive sleep apnea the risk is equivalent seven or eight hours of sleep per night to to smoking a pack of cigarettes function optimally. Recent per day. research shows that there may Sleeping less than six hours be serious consequences to your per night has been associated health if you are getting less than with an increased risk of breast seven hours of sleep per night. cancer and the risk of developing No matter what your age, potentially cancerous colonic failure to get adequate sleep polyps. can profoundly affect memory, The immune system is also cognitive function, learning, susceptible to an increased risk sense of well-being and physical of contracting colds and flu with health. It is still not clear what sleep deficiency. the exact functions of sleep are, One of the functions of but sleep has been maintained Phil emrie, MD sleep may relate to learning. as essential in virtually all forms It is thought that developing new neural of life. Profound sleep deprivation can even pathways that become permanent and result in death. It should come as no surprise encode our memories is accomplished then that inadequate sleep can have serious during sleep. Well-rested individuals learn detrimental effects. A recent article in the and retain more information and new skills. New York Times highlighted many of these Judgment is adversely affected with lack effects. of sleep and is associated with increased One bodily system that has been risk-taking behavior. Recognition of this shown to be adversely affected by sleep has prompted restrictions on work hours deprivation is the nervous system. Poor for pilots and truck drivers. One of the sleep is associated with an increased risk avenues of investigation in the recent crash of depression. It is also a significant risk of the airplane in San Francisco concerned factor for substance abuse. Sleep deficiency whether the pilots were adequately rested has also been associated with obesity and obeying workplace rules for rest. and difficulty losing weight. In addition, Driving tests show that driving while sleep metabolism slows with sleep deprivation, deprived is equivalent to driving drunk. and one study suggested that this lowered It is increasingly clear that sufficient metabolic rate could be associated with a sleep is not something we can do without weight gain of up to 10 pounds per year. and is imperative to good health. Glucose metabolism is also adversely affected by sleep deprivation. Even healthy Phil Emrie, MD, is a pulmonary specialyoung adults can develop elevated glucose ist with Rocky Mountain Pulmonary and and insulin levels within a week with Critical Care Medicine, and the medical experimental sleep deprivation at a level director of the Sleep Lab at Exempla Luequivalent to a diagnosis of pre-diabetes. theran Medical Center. The risk of heart attack and stroke

By PHiL eMrie, MD

Ask the expert

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Colorado’s New Marijuana Driving Law By Joe Lusk

overnor Hickenlooer recently signed into law a bill that sets a standard for driving under the influence of marijuana. The new law provides that, if a driver’s blood tests positive for five nanograms or more of THC per milliliter of whole blood, the driver is presumed to be under the influence of drugs. This follows legislation passed in Washington, another “marijuana legal state” setting the five-nanogram limit. THC is the chemical found in marijuana, which changes the brain’s receptor behaviors, thus causing the effects many users seek for medical and recreational reasons. Many drivers who regularly use marijuana will test positive for more than five nanograms long after having refrained from using marijuana. Conversely, a person who is not a regular marijuana user may test below the limit shortly after the consuming marijuana, while still being strongly affected by the drug. The law provides that the presumption is a “permissive inference” which means that a jury will be instructed that they may, but are not required to, presume the driver was under the influence of drugs while driving. This is the same instruction that will be given to juries considering whether a driver with an “over the limit” alcohol test result is under the influence. Defense attorneys will look to driving and roadside behavior in defending drivers who are accused of driving under the influence of marijuana, and will also look to the lab testing procedures to rebut the presumption. Prosecutors will look to these factors in bolstering their case for conviction.

In order to decide how to proceed with an impairment investigation, law enforcement officers will request that the driver perform roadside tests, which include walk-and-turn and horizontal gaze nystagmus (follow the pen). If non-alcohol impairment is suspected, specially-trained law enforcement may then perform a Drug Recognition Examination. Under the new law, medical marijuana cards are not permitted to be probable cause for an arrest for drug impaired driving. Nor is the prosecution permitted to use a medical marijuana card as part of its case in chief against the defendant driver. A driver who is convicted of driving under the influence of marijuana (or any other drug or alcohol) will face jail time, fines, court costs, community service, and court-mandated education. Additionally, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles will take action to suspend the driving privileges of that person, and will thereafter require that an interlock device be installed in the driver’s vehicle. Although the interlock device detects only alcohol, it is believed that a combination of drugs and alcohol greatly increases impairment of driving ability. Marijuana users should be cautioned not to consume the drug prior to driving. Regular users should consider the risks involved in driving at any time. All users should consult the numerous published scientific and medical articles regarding the metabolization and elimination of THC for further information. Joe Lusk is a lawyer with Boatright & Ripp, LLC in Wheat Ridge. He can be reached at 303-423-7131.

ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – neighborhood gazette

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neighborhood gazette – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – ngazette.com

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school crossing Time To Start Making Lunches a Data Management Advisory Council made up of parents, business representatives and technology experts to advise us about even days and counting. Where did the opportunities, concerns and challenges as summer go? Douglas County students we proceed. went back to school the first week of August, If you have questions or concerns, you’ll while Jeffco begins on the 19th, with want to attend the community information registration on the 7th, pretty meeting on Thursday, Aug. 22, much changing the conversation at 1829 Denver West Drive, from “How is your summer?” to Building #27, 5th floor, in “How was?” I still have things on Golden. You may also submit my “to do” list. I plan on being your question or concern on summer mode right up to to Superintendent Cindy Labor Day weekend. Only then Stevenson through our “Ask the will I tell you how much fun our Super” column (see below). summer was. Having just gone through With so many changes registration, I hope you took affecting our schools this fall, I’ll a moment to review in detail try to focus on one per month. the charges in your accounts. These issues will include teacher Guy Nahmiach The “post grad donation” for and principal evaluations, additional donations that schools are 50 percent of which is tied to student allowed to ask for. In fact it will be interesting performance.There are fewer but much to see how schools fare as they move away more in-depth goals for our students, with from fundraisers to simply having families the goal being to have our children “college donate the cash needed for all the programs and career ready.” during the year. Another program that you’ll need to One item on my invoice that I did not familiarize yourself with is Partnership for have to pay for was the $350 Outdoor Lab Assessment of Readiness for College and bill. Having signed up at King Soopers last Careers (PARCC), a computer-based testing year, we have already more than raised program that will replace CSAP and TCAP, Dylan’s cost of participating. If your child allowing educators to share scores with plans on participating in the next two years, parents quicker. you should be already signed up and earning It is the accumulation and storage free money! I did hear that Safeway also has of personal information that has caused the same program. concern for many parents. I did remind Do you have any news about your school readers that Amazon and Google had that you’d like to share with the community? more personal information stored than Please call or write me with the details. any government agency. The school board Time to start making lunches again. As has just sent out a letter detailing how and always, thanks for reading. where the info is used: who has access and how the information is used for the Guy Nahmiach can be reached at 303improvement of the education experience of 999-5789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com. our children. And, the District has formed

BY GUY NAHMIACH

ASk THe SUper Answers to Questions Posed to Schools Superintendent Cindy Stevenson

When Will kindergarten Become Mandatory As Well As preschool? Kindergarten is not required according to state law. However, it is, of course, highly recommended. Jeffco currently has both full and half-day programs. In many of our schools we have free, full-day kindergarten. In other schools we have free half-day kindergarten. In our schools that provide tuition-based, full-day kindergarten, the cost is $300 per month. Half-day kindergarten is always free because kindergarteners are funded at 58 percent of a full student from the state. If the initiative on the November ballot passes, then Jeffco plans to offer free fullday kindergarten at all elementary schools beginning in fall of 2015 when the additional funds become available. Parents should call their neighborhood elementary school to find out what options are available in that school. Thank you, Cindy Stevenson Submit questions for Superintendent Stevenson to guy@NostalgicHomes.com or call 303-999-5789.

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ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE

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Exotic Circus Meets Exotic Cars BY GINA HALLISEY

ack by popular demand, the Zoppe’ Italian Family Circus will return to the 44th Annual Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival as the main attraction. One of the last one-ring circuses traveling the U.S. the Zoppe’s entertain audiences from New York to California with their enchanting exhibition of European circus. This year’s show will be more exciting than ever with new exotic acts added to the familiar family acts. The exotic theme carries through with a special Exotic Car Showcase sponsored by Medved and our friends at the Automezzi. Featured vehicles (Italian, European, American) will be displayed around the fountain piazza. Exotic cars will be displayed on both Sunday, August 18th and Sunday, August 25th from 11am-4pm with each Sunday featuring different makes and models so come out for both days to see them all! There are 13 circus performances to choose from between August 16-25th. This is a circus for all ages so bring the whole family! Look for the Big Top at its Wheat Ridge home at Anderson Park on 44th Avenue and Field Street. See schedule for dates and times or visit www.zoppecolorado.com for more info. Tickets can be purchased online at www.zoppecolorado.com, at the Wheat Ridge Rec Center located at 4005 Kipling Street or at the circus box ofﬁce located in front of the Big Top one hour prior to each performance time. General Admission tickets (bleacher seating) are $15 and VIP tickets (chair seating) are $20. Purchase online using the code GAZETTE and save $5 off each ticket. Volunteer to usher at one of the performances and see the show for free! Contact gina@getconnectedevents.com or 303-726-6111 for volunteer sign up.

Zoppé Performance Dates/Times Friday, August 16th – 7pm Saturday, August 17th – 1pm, 4pm, 7pm Sunday, August 18th – 1pm, 4pm Thursday, August 22nd – 7pm Friday, August 23rd – 7pm Saturday, August 24th – 1pm, 4pm, 7pm Sunday, August 25th – 1pm, 4pm

The Circus Fun Is Back And So Are The Circus Bucks! Redeem your Circus Bucks online at www.zoppecolorado.com (using online code on bucks) or at the box office to SAVE $5.00 on each ticket purchased! Circus Box Office is the Wheat Ridge Rec Center located at 4005 Kipling St. On-site Box Office at Anderson Park is open one hour prior to every performance time. You only need one of the Circus Bucks to get the $5.00 discount on every ticket purchased and multiple tickets can be purchased at one time. Bring the whole family and SAVE BIG! GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET (BLEACHER SEATING) Regular Price $15, with Circus Bucks discount is $10 VIP TICKET (CHAIR SEATING) Regular Price $20, with Circus Bucks discount is $15

neighborhood gazette – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – ngazette.com

WHAT’S HAPPENING Bird Release & Pancake Breakfast at Prospect Park Aug. 24 Wild B.I.R.D. Information and Rehabilitation of Denver is hosting its first annual Bird Release and Pancake Breakfast, Saturday, Aug. 24, 8-11 a.m., at Wheat Ridge’s Prospect Park, along the Clear Creek greenbelt and the new Wild B.I.R.D. property. Activities include bird release, a bird walk led by local birder Norm Lewis, children’s activities and a silent auction/ raffle. Ticket reservations are available at www.wildbirdrehab.com. Wild B.I.R.D. is a state and federally licensed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in southeast Denver that is dedicated to the rehabilitation of sick, injured and abandoned baby birds. It is the only licensed facility dedicated exclusively to non-raptor bird care serving the entire Front Range and beyond. The proceeds from this fundraiser will go directly to the new Wheat Ridge property capital fund. For more information on Wild B.I.R.D., contact Gail Ferris, 720-323-0669 or boardmembers@wildbirdrehab.com.

Hot Dogs, Kids Fun Run at Edgewater Community Picnic, Aug. 24 Bring blankets, picnic baskets and the family to the 2013 Edgewater Community Picnic at Citizen’s Park, 24th and Chase St., on Saturday, Aug. 24, from 6 to 9 p.m. The free event kicks off with a kids’ fun run around the park, and includes free grilled hot dogs (supplies limited), live entertainment from the Tyler Walker Band, a “jumpy castle” for the kids and local vendors providing information about their businesses.

Jeffco League of Women Voters Hosts Free Movie Night Aug. 26 To celebrate the anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment, the League of Women Voters of Jefferson County will present a free screening of “Iron Jawed Angels” on Monday, Aug. 26, at the American Mountaineering Center, 710 10th St., Golden. The Lakewood Chapter of the American Association of University Women co-sponsors the event. The 2004 award-winning movie, starring Hilary Swank as Alice Paul and Anjelica Huston as Carrie Chapman Catt, tells the story of suffragettes who endured imprisonment and hunger strikes to win for women the right to vote. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and the movie begins at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served free of charge. Parking and the entrance to the auditorium are at the

rear (north side) of the building. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization encouraging informed and active participation in government, working to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influencing public policy through education and advocacy. For more information about the Jeffco League of Women Voters, visit www. lwvjeffco.org.

Learn How Volunteers Improve Safety at TRIAD, Aug. 27 Professionals and volunteers will show seniors how volunteers can improve their community’s safety in “Volunteers Enhancing Community Safety,” Tuesday, Aug. 27, 1:30 p.m., at the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Conference Room, located at 500 Jefferson County Parkway, Golden. The free community event is sponsored by TRIAD, a cooperative venture of senior community members, the district attorney, law enforcement and senior service providers concerned about the safety and security of seniors living in Jefferson and Gilpin counties. For details of “Volunteers Enhancing Community Safety” or more information on TRIAD, call 303-271-6980.

Sign Up for Wheat Ridge Civic Academy By Sept. 13 Want to understand how Wheat Ridge works and learn how to be actively involved as a citizen? Sign up for the City of Wheat Ridge’s 2013 Civic Academy, a four-week program designed to inform residents about the City’s organization and encourage active participation in local government. Classes take place on Tuesday evenings, Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The program increases public awareness of what local government does for residents. Through presentations by the mayor, city council, city manager and various city departments, residents will learn how the organization works to deliver results and is focused on providing a high quality of life in Wheat Ridge. “Civic Academy is a great opportunity for residents to learn about the issues and opportunities facing Wheat Ridge,” said Mayor Jerry DiTullio. “We want to engage our residents and encourage them to dedicate themselves to improving our community.” Starting with a recommendation from the 2005 Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Committee outlining a need for investing in leadership development and volunteerism, the Civic Academy was created to introduce members of the community to the city’s organization.

“The City of Wheat Ridge wants to ensure residents have opportunities to get involved at the local level,” said City Manager Patrick Goff. “Civic Academy is a great first step for those interested in learning about their city government. It will help them gain a deeper understanding of how the city works and the priorities that we will focus on for the future.” The Academy has been reorganized to attract more participation, and this year will include a leadership training session focused on the power of resilience in tough times. “We continue to look at ways to make the Academy more appealing and easier to fit into residents’ busy schedules,” said City Management Analyst Nathan Mosley. Applications are due by Sept. 13, and a minimum of 12 people must register. For more information or to apply, visit www.ci.wheatridge.co.us, or contact Nathan Mosley at 303-235-2867 or nmosley@ci.wheatridge.co.us.

Check Out Western States Clinical Research at its Open House, Aug. 29 Western States Clinical Research, 9201 W. 44th Ave., is having its annual open house on Thursday, Aug. 29, 4-7 p.m., featuring refreshments, a prize giveaway, free pulmonary function testing, blood pressure checks and information about clinical research. RSVP to 303-940-9773 or research@ wscrinc.com.

Women’s Business Leads Group Accepting New Members Businesswomen from Wheat Ridge, Arvada and Edgewater who want to grow their businesses are invited to join a women’s business networking group in Arvada. Prospective members must be willing to commit to weekly Wednesday morning meetings. For details, email info@ourconnection. org or call 303-438-6783.

Volunteers – Celtic or Not – Needed for Celtic Festival This year’s Celtic Harvest Festival boasts nine bands as part of its free celebration of Celtic culture, Sept. 21 & 22. But it won’t happen without volunteers, so the public is invited to call or email with their interest in making the event possible.

This year’s music lineup includes Angus Mohr, Mythica Chancer’s, Keep Britain Irish, Billy the Mountain, Celtic Winds, Kindred Spirits, O’Neil’s Fancy, Sherman Woods and Colcannon, in addition to pipe bands, Celtic dancers, Dogs of the British Isles, sheep herding demos, The RenScots, HawkQuest, Celtic Clans, a Celtic Marketplace, farmer’s market, Oskar Blues Beer & Spirits, and family and children’s activities. Festival hours will be 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, at 2400 Benton St., Edgewater. To volunteer or for more information, visit www.celticharvestfestivaledgewater. com or call Dan, 720-763-3012, or Laura, 303-232-0745.

Start Saving Stuff for the Edgewater Citywide Garage Sale, Sept. 28 The City of Edgewater will be hosting a Citywide Garage Sale Saturday, Sept. 28, and hopes to break the record for most garage sales in the city in a single day. The coordinated event will be followed by an item donation initiative, fall alley cleanup, large item drop off and “shred-athon” in the weeks after the event. Event co-sponsor Shannon Hendry, of Open Door Real Estate, says, her company likes the community-focused “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” angle of the event and how it ties in with the chance to donate to charity and clean up the city at the same time. Edgewater City Councilwoman Myra Keeble got the idea for the event from a neighbor who noticed that there was a constant stream of sales each and every weekend. He suggested that a coordinated, one-day event could bring people to Edgewater, creating an opportunity to cross-market and make extra cash for our residents. “Hopefully this will be the start of a new tradition,” says Keeble. “In addition to extra pocket money for our citizens, this event helps to keep our city clean, is inexpensive, encourages charitable contributions, and helps residents get to know their neighbors.” Following the garage sale, participating residents will have an opportunity to have unsold items picked up by Goodwill Industries, which will donate five cents per pound to the Edgewater Optimist Club for local charitable activities, including scholarships and toy drives. Edgewater’s fall alley cleanup day will be held on Oct. 7, followed by a large item drop off and a shred-a-thon on Oct. 12. To sign up to host a garage sale, go to www.playedgewater.com or sign up in person at the Edgewater Farmer’s Market on Thursday evenings throughout the summer.

Submit items to the “What’s Happening” section at editor@ngazette.com

TUNDRA by Chad Carpenter

WRBA Invites you to 1/24 H Hours” “Business Before combined business associations

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ngazette.com – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – neighborhood gazette

LOCAL BUSINESS BRIEFS

COmmUNIty FOCUS

Community Ties To Medical, Tech and Business Resources

‘A Little help’ for Wheat Ridge seniors

BY CYNDY BEAL

heat Ridge is known as a community with strong medical ties, with nationally recognized Lutheran Medical Center. What is not as widely known is the multitude of other medical and business resources within the city. For 21 years, Western States Clinical Research, Inc. (WSCR) has conducted phase II, III and IV clinical research studies for pharmaceuticals. Clinical research study phases are defined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The emphasis in Phase II is on drug effectiveness, from the FDA website. “We are reviewed by an institutional board with standards and ethics,” said Nancy Fingerhood, recruitment coordinator for WSCR. She said the studies give people another option for their health care and managing conditions, such as asthma. All doctors are board certified and primarily in the west area of town, close for study participants. All study participants are closely monitored during study periods. Studies are free of charge and provide study medication, office visits and sometimes financial compensation. “We always have new studies coming in,” said Fingerhood. On Aug. 29 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., WSCR is hosting an open house at 9201 W. 44th Ave. (44th Avenue and Garrison). To RSVP or for additional information, email research@wscrinc.com or contact Nancy Fingerhood at 303-940-9773, or visit their website at http://wscrinc.com.

NEW iN WhEAT RiDgE In June, Ross Goscha, Platinum Business Development moved into the Mon Petit Building at 6990 W. 38th Ave. Goscha’s business assists business owners in locating vendors to set up their business with everything from furniture to phone and internet. He shares a suite with two other businesses, Skybridge Communications and Linked in Realty LLC. The three businesses

Carnation Volunteers Continued from page 1

faded memory.” Nadler adds that the hard work is all worthwhile. “There wouldn’t be a festival without volunteers,” she says. “I’m amazed at how many kind, caring, giving people there are on the festival committee who all do a tremendous amount of work to make it all possible.” For her, the payoff is evident each time she has stopped to look at the vendors lining the festival grounds and the midway packed with people: “Knowing I had something to do with making it happen was magical.” Even before the 2013 event closes, Jahn is looking toward the future. “It is through all of the great volunteers we have that we get wonderful new ideas as

often work together on projects. To contact Ross Goscha call 303-395-0110 or email ross.g@platinum-biz.com.

BusiNEss REsouRCEs The Jefferson County Business Resource Center (JCBRC) in Denver West offers a range services for new or existing businesses. Whether it be developing a business plan to advice on the three M’s (Marketing, Management and Money) the services are free and confidential. “The businesses that have survived have re-invented what they do,” said JCBRC Executive Director Jayne Reiter. Their next event, Marketing Your Food Product, is a one-day workshop sponsored by the Colorado Department of Agriculture on Thursday, Sept. 19. Workshop Cost is $35 per person. To schedule a meeting email info@ jeffcobrc.org and include a draft copy or completed business plan. For more information or to RSVP for a workshop call 303-996-8976, or visit their website at http://www.jeffcobrc.org.

10Th ANNuAL BusiNEss AWARDs It’s that time again to vote for your favorite Wheat Ridge businesses. To download a nomination form, visit the city’s website at www.ci.wheatridge. co.us. Nomination forms are also available at City Hall, Senior’s Resource Center, Wheat Ridge Active Adult Center, and the Recreation Center. Nomination forms for the 2013 Business Awards must be returned by Friday, Aug. 16 to City Hall.

2013 BusiNEss WALk The Business Walk is on Wednesday, Aug. 21. The goal is to contact over 200 businesses during a two-hour period. For more information or to volunteer contact Steve Art at 303-235-2806 or email sart@ci.wheatridge.co.us. For comments or questions on this article or future business stories contact editor@ngazette.com

BY AMANDA gREgg

ack in 2006, a group of progressive Washington Park neighbors embarked on a journey to start a grassroots organization. Their mission was to strengthen their neighborhood, focusing on volunteer services to help seniors thrive in their homes and communities as they age. Our organization, A Little Help, is an innovative and stable 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is now doing a grassroots launch in Wheat Ridge. Little Help is unique in offering Denver communities biannual Service Saturday! volunteer events in the spring and fall. During these opportunities, senior members can contact A Little Help and request a crew of volunteers to arrive at their house ready to help with their “to do” lists of indoor and outdoor jobs. Projects range from raking and cleaning light fixtures, to washing windows and moving boxes out for donation pickup. So much can be accomplished in one day by the volunteering members of A Little Help. Additionally, members of A Little Help are able to request such services as pulling weeds, getting a ride to the grocery store or doctor’s office, as well as having a volunteer come over to help replace a light bulb. The best thing is that those volunteering their time are just around the corner and wonderful relationships are then built in their own community. Many seniors want to age in place and sometimes they just need “a little help” to do just that. Dr. Paul Ramsey, the Executive Director of A Little Help, speaks passionately about his deep desire to build stronger relationships between neighbors by bringing together folks of all ages. Each generation can share their stories, strengths and challenges to enrich the lives of neighbors of all ages. “We strive to cultivate a sense of altruism and compassion for people of different generations,” explains Ramsey. “By working side by side and sharing a meal with people who are seemingly different than us, we can’t help but discover qualities and interests which unite and bring us closer together.” A Little Help is successfully bringing members of every generation together to share their assets and strengths.

Continued from page 4

with people from the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporation, and they see economic development opportunities evolving from these and other sustainability efforts, such as energy efficiency and renewable energy. They view Jefferson County as a likely hot bed for clean technology. With assets such as National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the Colorado School of Mines, and the terrific Open Space properties, this county is the perfect spot for these emerging businesses and their families. What is really amazing is that all these

For example, Brownies with Brownies gives seniors a chance to share their time, stories and wisdom with a local Brownie troop. Through Teen Team, high school students can assist seniors with learning how to use different computer programs and devices. Monthly dinners attract neighbors of all ages to share a common table. The possibilities are endless. A Little Help has often been the bridge that has connected neighbors who can lend a hand and gain a great sense of satisfaction from being of service. It is convenient and easy to help neighbors, as well as satisfying to build meaningful connections while strengthening the neighborhood. All of us want Wheat Ridge to be a place where we can spend our lives; with A Little Help it can be possible to age in a strong community! AARP and Blue Zones research has shown that people who have close relationships with their neighbors and communities live longer, especially when rediscovering purpose in their lives as they age. The Wheat Ridge neighborhood is now a part of A Little Help. If you are interested in “a little” more information, come join us for pizza at Right Coast Pizza, 7100 W. 38th Ave., on Thursday, Sept. 26, 6:00 p.m. Please RSVP by calling 720-220-6079. As Wheat Ridge’s Volunteer Site Director, I’d be more than happy to meet with you or your group. Feel free to contact me or visit A Little Help’s website, www. alittlehelp.com. a little Help’s wheat ridge volun-

well,” she says, “The energy at this event is teer site director amanda Gregg can be just electrifying!” reached at amanda@alittlehelp.com or For Pettit, a seven-decade resident of 720-242-9032. Wheat Ridge, the buzzwords that drive the mission of the volunteers are “familyHave a news tip, story idea or letter to tHe editor? friendly” and “community.” visit ngazette.com or editor@ngazette.com “Every year,” he says proudly, “as the Carnation Festival parade moves down 38th Avenue, I stand at attention as the flag of our nation is presented by a color guard of veterans who have valiantly served our nation, followed by those elected to lead our city, then those who protect us, the police and fire departments. The attendees line the sidewalks to hear the school bands Italian Restaurant & Bakery and watch the El Jebel Shriners and the Appetite Stimulus Plan FREE $ 00 Westernaires. The fireworks that light up Family Entrée With coupon. Expires 2/15/2013 NG OFF Pasta Bucket the night skies! The variety of music and Appetite Stimulus Plan Your second entrée Linguini for Five, Fresh Baked 5 Meatballs is Free, when you buy or Italian FREE entertainment! These are the memories I’ll Family price one entrée at regular Loaf of Bread Sausage & a loaf of our plus two drinks. OR 1/2 lb Fresh famous fresh bread BreakfastBucket Entrée never forget, and I thank the community OFF Pasta (Up To $15 Discount) $1995 Baked Cookies second entrée Linguini for Five, volunteers who make it possible.” isYour Fresh Baked 5Burritos Free, when you buy Meatballs or Italian 8-11 am 2001 So do we, Walt, so do we. one entrée at regular & a loaf of our Loaf of Bread Sausage

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neighborhood gazette – AUGUST 14 – SEPTEMBER 18, 2013 – ngazette.com

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urban perspective Can We Trust You? except the city is not looking to take a test drive, by a vote of 8-0 they want to put a ealizing that our car situation was not question on the November ballot to enact a going to fit our growing family, my 1 percent sales tax increase. By enacting this wife and I sat down to have one of those sale tax it will bring our sales tax in Wheat “household finances” meeting – you know, Ridge from 7.5 to 8.5 percent. Here is a 2013 the kind where you talk all sweet and lovely list of the current sales tax rates of each of our surrounding municipalities: towards each other. The outcome Lakeside 6.6; Lakewood 7.5; of that meeting was that I spent Golden 7.5; Denver 7.62; Arvada less, my wife kept doing what she (Jeffco) 7.96; Arvada (Adams) does best (which is save, save, 8.21; Mountain View 8.5. save). We also decided that we When my wife and I decided needed more income along with to purchase a car, we specifically a more aggressive savings plan. set this as a household priority, After a few years of saving we planned, we saved, and we and increasing our income we increased our income from finally took the plunge: We several sources. The most current bought a car. When we went ballot question on the sale tax shopping for car the salesman Zachary Urban hike uses very vague language. took me for a test drive. When I The most concrete reason city got into the driver’s seat, I thought to myself, “Let’s see how many ponies this staff/ council has given for this increase is for the repair and replacement of public works baby has under the hood.” It was just then that the salesman did related items (i.e. streets, sewers, sidewalks, something I wasn’t expecting, as he handed etc.). While these items are suggest in the ballot question as “possible” uses for this me the keys, he asked, “Can I trust you?” I responded in the most responsible money, there is nothing which limits this voice possible “Yes.” I realized that it was revenue towards this purpose. If the city his responsibility to make sure this car was truly needs to increase the city’s revenue for returned safely back to the dealership. As the purpose of fixing our streets why not limit much as I wanted to drive it like a bat out of the sales tax revenue to this explicit purpose? hell, I knew he was watching my every turn. The ballot question on a 1 percent sales tax The car was his responsibility; he allowed me increase poses a simple question “Can you to drive based on a simple question, “Can I trust the Wheat Ridge City Council?” On a totally separate topic, the Wal-Mart trust you?” After the test drive was over we at Lakeside has some great deals on school returned safely to the dealership. This same question needs to be posed supplies. Zachary Urban can be reached at 720to the Wheat Ridge City Council – “Can you trust the Wheat Ridge City Council?” – 252-5930 or www.zacharyurban.com.

BY ZACHARY URBAN

HOMe, Garden & LifestyLe Home, Garden & Lifestyle Debuts Lifestyle in Wheat Ridge is changing as the migration of young families move to our great community that touts big yards, great schools and wonderful vistas. In response to that change the Neighborhood Gazette will be adding a Lifestyle column to the paper. This section will cover many things about our homes, our gardens and our activities. We will be discussing our roots and also where we are going. We will be talking with our resident pickers on 44th that are bringing metro Denver visitors to our city in search of vintage finds. As new and popular dining places emerge we will take a look at those places and “spread the word”. If decorating and design are your passion you will be able to find interesting pieces of information to help your home become and expression of your personality and style. Since Wheat Ridge was once the Carnation Capital we would be remiss if we didn’t talk about our gardens and share some great growing tips. This home, garden and lifestyle section will be organized and brought to you by Jeanne Nichols. Jeanne is a resident and business owner in Wheat Ridge. Currently she owns and is the Lead Designer/Home Stylist at modmood/RETRO Consignment at 44th and Wadsworth.

Wheat Ridge Homes showcase The Modern Movement BY JEANNE NICHOls

joyce jay 16 H

s one who enjoys design, home styling, art and architecture I’ve found Wheat Ridge to be a hidden gem of fun and funky mid-century and modern design. Wheat Ridge enjoys the prestige of having developed as a suburban community in the 1950s and ‘60s. This growth paralleled the modernism movement and is represented by many of the mid-century modern and California ranch-style homes that dot our community. Many of these homes are still occupied by the original homeowners, which makes this even more intriguing. Over the course of time the initial intent of the architecture may be hidden, understandably after 50plus years of style change. Now with midcentury and modern design making a huge comeback, how do we capitalize on this era of homes and bring them back to their original intended design esthetic or take them forward to a more modern style while still capturing the great nuances?

Simplify: mid-century and modern homes have clean, crisp lines both inside and out. Neutralize: the canvas of the home should be uncomplicated (neutral) allowing the furnishings to pop. Go green: organic elements are welcome in these environments and bring warmth to the clean, crisp lines and neutral canvas. Furnish and accessorize: furniture of the era is generally simple, smaller in scale but a few exceptional pieces here and there are always great additions. Check out the Wheat Ridge Mid-Century and Modern Home Tour, Sept. 7 (visit wheatridge2020.org for details) and the Denver Modernism Show, Aug. 23-25 at the National Western Expo Complex, for a look at mid-century design and furnishings. 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.