Rotary Benefi t Dinner and

Auction, Oct. 25see page 9

2013 Business Appreciation

Awardssee page 10

CANDY AND CARAMEL APPLES are a fall tradition and common treat around Halloween. Wheat Ridge’s celebration of All Hallows’ Eve marks the return of Trunk or Treat, held in the Wheat Ridge 5-8 school parking lot, 7101 W. 38th Ave., Saturday, Oct. 26, from 4 to 7 p.m. The event features decorated car trunks, fi lled with candy, where children can safely complete the traditional October Trick or Treat ritual. PHOTO BY HEATHER LEE

BY CYNDY BEAL

Environmental cleanup and future redevelopment equal a new lease on life

for the vacant car lot at the southwest corner of 38th Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard.

On Oct. 3, Renewal Wheat Ridge, the city’s urban renewal authority, closed on one of the three parcels of land that make up the southwest corner property. Most recently, the property was a Ford dealership.

Renewal Wheat Ridge purchased a parcel at 38th Avenue and Yukon Court for $350,000. The city of Wheat Ridge used funds from city reserves and loaned the money to Renewal Wheat Ridge. The other two parcels have been purchased by a developer.

The next step in the process for the land is for the city to send out bids for environmental cleanup/remediation. The bulk of the environmental remediation is suspected to be from a former dry cleaner shop on the now city-owned site. Part of the purchase price, $40,000, will go toward remediation costs.

The property was declared blighted and has sat vacant since the Ford dealership closed its doors in January 2010.

Environmental remediation most likely will begin before the end of the year, dependent on approval of the environmental remediation plan submitted to the Colorado Department of Health and Environment.

The site has been re-zoned as mixed-used commercial and, “…will be different than what’s on the northwest corner,” of Wadsworth Boulevard and 38th Avenue, said Wheat Ridge City Manager Patrick Goff.

The entire site is approximately 15 acres, per the Wadsworth Boulevard Redevelopment plan in 1999, which included the open fi eld to the south on Wadsworth Boulevard. A developer has submitted a conceptual plan for the corner.

The vision for the property has been outlined in multiple city plans for more than a decade.

The plan is for Renewal Wheat Ridge to sell the cleaned-up site to the developer who owns the other two parcels of land. The developer has submitted a letter of intent to buy the property, after environmental remediation is complete, although the site will be monitored for chemical contaminant levels for around two years.

As part of the Colorado Urban Renewal Act (URA) CRS 31-25-101 of 1975, a city may create an urban renewal authority that is allowed to purchase blighted property and work in collaboration with a private entity, such as a developer.

Most states have forms of URA that allow the use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF). “TIF is a mechanism for funding redevelopment projects in Colorado exclusively targeted for blighted areas,” according to http://www.colorado.gov. TIF is an incentive for the developer and is based on the increased value of property.

The developer may use future funds from the county, either through increased property taxes or from the city through sales taxes on the site.

For comments or questions regarding this article or to submit future story ideas, email editor@ngazette.com

Corner Cleanup/ Development at 38th and Wadsworth

GazetteNEIGHBORHOODGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteGazetteWheat Ridge | Edgewater | OCTOBER 18 - NOVEMBER 12, 2013

BY J. PATRICK O’LEARY

Wheat Ridge and its children can again celebrate Halloween at Trunk or

Treat, held in the Wheat Ridge 5-8 school parking lot, 7101 W. 38th Ave., Saturday, Oct. 26, from 4 to 7 p.m.

The event features a “Trick-or-Treat Street” made up of volunteer car trunks decorated in Halloween style, where children can safely complete the traditional October march for candy.

The festivities kick off at 4 p.m. with a costume parade lead by Thriller Zombie Dancers. Other attractions include a hot dog stand run by the Wheat Ridge Cheer Team, a craft and game table, haunted house, free hay rides and pumpkin dessert contest hosted by Live Local Harvest.

In the days leading up to this event, businesses on Ridge at 38 can participate in the “Pumpkin Parade” by displaying wooden pumpkin cut outs outside of their establishments. Participants will receive a wooden pumpkin cut out to creatively decorate and compete for the Golden Pumpkin Award. Winners will be announced the night of the event.

Up to 100 volunteers are needed to decorate their car trunks and pass out candy to kids. Some candy will be provided, but additional donations are welcome. Sign up at www.SignUpGenius.com/go/10C0C45AEAF2CABF94-trunk/11824268.

Trunk or Treat started two years ago with just a handful of cars and dedicated community members, and has grown to the almost 40 cars and 400 kids in attendance last year. Community partners and businesses include Compass Construction, Lakota Skye, The Family Tree (Treasure Trunk Thrift Store) and Destination Dance. Wheat Ridge Police Department provides offi cers for at the event and trick-or-treat candy collection bags for the kids.

Ridge at 38 is Wheat Ridge’s central commercial district, located on West 38th Avenue between Sheridan and Wadsworth boulevards. Wheat Ridge 2020 is a community-based, nonprofi t development corporation advancing Wheat Ridge as a vibrant and sustainable community.

For more information contact Mara Owen, Wheat Ridge 2020, at 720-259-1030 or mowen@wheatridge2020.org.

‘Trunk or Treat’ Returns to Wheat Ridge 5-8, Oct. 26

Falling For Fall, Flavors &

Festivalssee page 6

How & Where to Vote?All active registered voters should have received a ballot for the Nov. 5 election by

mail, sent to their address of record. Ballots can be cast by: Mail (put a fi rst-class stamp on it);Voting in person from Oct. 21-Nov. 5 at a Voter Service and Polling Center

(Lakewood Motor Vehicle Offi ce, 20th & Wadsworth is closest); orDropping it off a Voter Service and Polling Center or drop-off location (Wheat

Ridge or Edgewater city hall).For more information and to verify registration, visit http://www.sos.state.co.us/

pubs/elections/vote/VoterHome.html.See local election coverage on pages 4,5 & 11.

October Inaugural Charitable Giving Month

The Neighborhood Gazette is committed to supporting community initiatives

and is highlighting the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation as the focus of its Inaugural Charitable Giving Month. A $5 donation from every household that receives the Neighborhood Gazette would raise over $75,000 to support programs that are benefi cial to Wheat Ridge residents of all ages.

The Foundation supports more than 14 community initiatives from Police Programs promoting crime prevention to Open Space education programs, to scholarships and Performances in the Park. To see a complete list of programs go to WheatRidgeFoundation.org/donate. Click the name of the program in the orange sidebar to learn the purpose of each initiative. At the end of each description is a “Donate” button. Donations also can be mailed to Wheat Ridge Foundation, c/o Wheat Ridge Rec Center, 4005 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033.

The Inaugural Charitable Giving Month is dedicated to memory of community leader Curtis J. Gilmore. The Curtis J. Gilmore Lifelong Learning Scholarship Fund will carry on the vision Curt had to help students

in pursuit of their lifelong educational aspirations. Scholarships from the fund will be awarded to Wheat Ridge area students who demonstrate character, work ethic and fi nancial need. The goal of the Foundation is to create and fund 10-15 scholarships over the next three years. To create or fund an individual scholarship contact any board member by visiting WheatRidgeFoundation.org/about/members.

Feed the Future is another worthy program supported by the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation. This program provides children who are on the School Free and Reduced Lunch program extra meals to see them through the weekend when they otherwise might go hungry.

Recognizing that art enhances quality of life, the Foundation also supports the public art program. Established in 2002, this program has enabled the City to acquire and display artwork in various locations accessible to the public.

The Neighborhood Gazette and the programs supported by the Wheat Ridge Community Foundation thank the citizens of Wheat Ridge for their tax deductible contributions during the month of October.

2 NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – ngazette.com

This batty buddy is located somewhere else in this issue, fi nd 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!

Find Me!Tim Berland 303-995-2806e-mail: editor@ngazette.com

www.ngazette.com4385 Wadsworth Blvd., #140,

Wheat Ridge, CO 80033Publication date is the 15th of each month.

Advertising: Vicki Ottoson 303-777-6144 or Tim Berland 303-995-2806

Copy Editing/Proofreading: J. Patrick O’Leary, Cyndy Beal & Sarah DiTullio

© OCTOBER 2013 All rights reserved. The publishers assume no responsibility for

representations, claims or opinions by any advertising or article in this publication.

GazetteNEIGHBORHOOD

van carver1/12 H

Breakfast on the edge1/8 H

loretta di1/12 H

Return or Flee from Wheat Ridge Roots?

Kids Will Return to RootsFrom our own personal experience,

there is hope for your daughter and other young people who may see themselves living somewhere other than Wheat Ridge (“Who Owns The Future?” August 2013 Neighborhood Gazette). Our two sons, who attended Wheat Ridge schools from kindergarten on, started out by purchasing homes in other cities, one in Arvada and the other in Aurora. Our oldest son, Donny, owns a home in Wheat Ridge and works in a Wheat Ridge business. Our younger son, Troy, just bought a Wheat Ridge business and plans to buy a home in Wheat Ridge. Currently, they are renting in Arvada because Wheat Ridge is low on rental inventory.

Let them explore other cities in Colorado and beyond. Kids are known for returning to their roots. After all this is where their childhood memories were created.

Margie Seyfer, Wheat Ridge

Hey, That’s Me You’re Talking AboutI am the young man you referenced in

your article in the Neighborhood Gazette - the one “that spoke up about my friends and peers moving out of Wheat Ridge.” (“Who Owns The Future?”, August 2013 Neighborhood Gazette.) While I am very interested to read how your follow-up story is coming, I want to give you a point of reference as to why so many young people do not look at Wheat Ridge as place to live; instead deciding to live in the Highlands, Wash Park, Jefferson Park, Golden, Olde Town Arvada, etc.

When my generation reads articles in the Denver Post, Neighborhood Gazette, etc., that highlight the City of Wheat Ridge fi ghting over spending $600K on improvements to 38th, we shake our heads in disgust. When we read articles about our mayor doing surveys on his own to push his own agenda, we question if he really has the best interests of Wheat Ridge in mind, or his and his buddies’ interests in mind.

When the city is unwilling to invest by increasing our sales tax by .01 percent, or spend $600K on projects that greatly improve the appeal of Wheat Ridge, my generation sees a city that is unwilling to invest in itself and is happy to be left behind by the communities surrounding it. To be completely honest, we view 38th as a suburban ghetto. The rundown shops/strip malls, poorly taken-care-of business, and bad apartments that look as if they were built for the Soviet Union, turn my generation away from our community.

38th and Wheat Ridge are starting to climb out of the hole we currently fi nd ourselves in with new places that make us want to stay in Wheat Ridge to spend our money and time, but the mayor and a couple of old business owners on 38th, that were happy to let it turn into a suburban ghetto, want to go back to the way it was? This is the root of the problem; we have leaders that don’t know how to lead us into the future, only hold onto the past.

Adam Smith, Wheat Ridge

Sales-Tax Story Continues

I would like to make a couple comments on Mr. Zachary Urban’s last column (“Can We Trust You?”, August 2013 Neighborhood Gazette).

I agree with him 100 percent that you should not simply give your trust. Whether to other people, businesses or your government, I believe trust needs to be earned.

I also think as a member of City Council, we need to always be watching our budget, fi nding areas to cut so that we can afford other expenditures.

In the article, Mr. Urban also lists out the current sales taxes in our neighboring cities. This information was correct. However, there is more to this story.

In addition to the sales tax, several major retail areas include property-improvement fees, fancy words for additional taxes that cause what you actually pay for goods to jump. For example, that Lakewood sales tax of 7.5 percent jumps to 8.9 in Colorado Mills, 8 percent in Belmar and 9 percent at Creekside, which includes the Walmart at Wadsworth & Colfax. Keep an eye on those receipts and be aware of what you are spending, so you can decide whether that property-improvement fee is worth it to you.

Trust is earned. And in government, one of the ways trust is earned is through transparency. Instead of hiding increased fees for goods sold in Wheat Ridge, Council has been advocating for a ballot question to voters that requests a sales tax increase. To have some great retail in Wheat Ridge and to keep our dollars in our community, this is an initiative that I publicly support. I continue to support this initiative but due to the timing of the veto and controversy of the ballot question in an election year, council chose not to vote to overturn the veto for this year’s ballot.

Most importantly remember to shop in Wheat Ridge to support our community.

Please feel free to contact me at 303-757-8488.

Kristi Davis, Wheat Ridge City Council

PIETRAS1/8 H

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

WRBA1/24 H

pioneer1/24 H

vincenzas1/12 H

Van CarverWheat Ridge native serving the community for over 30 years.

Call for free, no obligation market analysis.

303-888-1011Now is the time. Market is hot!

2045 Sheridan Blvd. 720-328-5806

www.breakfastonthe edge.com

BEST BREAKFAST

SPOT IN EDGEWATER!

50% OFFANy ENTREE

with purchase of any entree of equal or greater value & two beverages. VALID MONDAy-FRIDAy ONLy. Limit one coupon per table. Not valid with

any other offers or on holidays. Expires 11/15/2013.

as voted by loyal customers

VOTE JOEY!City Council District IV

pietraspizza.comTuesday-Saturday 11-10 • Sunday 12-9 • Closed Monday

Since 1964

FREE DINNER SALADwith any entree every Wed.

9045 W. 44th Ave • 303-421-4100

Countdown To Our 50th Anniversary!

Expertise, Effi ciency, Proven ResultsServing Wheat Ridge & Denver Metro West

Call for your private consultation

303.594.1520Call for your private consultation

303.594.1520LorettaDiTirro@gmail.com

www.LorettasHomes.com

Loretta DiTirro

Catering • Banquet Facilities • Carry Out

8000 W. 44th Ave. • 303-420-8400Wheat Ridge • 1/2 Mile West of Wadsworth Blvd.• 8000 W. 44th Ave. • 303-420-8400

FREE EntréeYour second entrée

is Free, when you buy one entrée at regular price plus two drinks.

(Up To $15 Discount)

Not valid with other offers.Limit One Per Customer.

With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11

DINE IN ONLY - FOOD TOTAL ONLY.Limit One Per Customer.

With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11

Appetite Stimulus PlanFamily

Pasta Bucket

$1995

Linguini for Five, 5 Meatballs or Italian

Sausage & a loaf of our famous fresh breadOR 1/2 lb Fresh

Baked Cookies

$100 OFF

Fresh Baked Loaf of Bread

Italian Restaurant & Bakery

Delicious Italian Food!

2001

VINCENZA’S

Wheat Ridge • 1/2 Mile West of Wadsworth Blvd.• 8000 W. 44th Ave. • 303-420-8400

FREE EntréeYour second entrée

is Free, when you buy one entrée at regular price plus two drinks.

(Up To $15 Discount)

Not valid with other offers.Limit One Per Customer.

With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11

DINE IN ONLY - FOOD TOTAL ONLY.Limit One Per Customer.

With Coupon. Expires 12/31/11

Appetite Stimulus PlanFamily

Pasta Bucket

$1995

Linguini for Five, 5 Meatballs or Italian

Sausage & a loaf of our famous fresh breadOR 1/2 lb Fresh

Baked Cookies

$100 OFF

Fresh Baked Loaf of Bread

Italian Restaurant & Bakery

Delicious Italian Food!

2001

VINCENZA’S

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEKBreakfast 8AM - 11AM • Lunch 11AM - 3PM

Dinner 3PM - 9PM (Open Sundays until 8PM)www.facebook.com/italianbakery

Take Out Only. Not valid with other offers. Limit Five Per Customer.

With coupon. Expires 11/15/2013

Family Pasta BucketLinguini for Five, 5 Meatballs or Italian Sausage & a loaf of our famous fresh bread $19.95

Best Italian RestaurantDenver’s A-List 2012/2013

Best Italian BakeryBest of Best Award 2012/2013

Don’t Sell Your Best Investment.

Keep it cash-fl owing, hassle free!

720-839-7482 RentMeDenver.com

“Great Tenants Guaranteed.”

ngazette.com – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – neighborhood gazette 3

NOSTALGICFULL

4 neighborhood gazette – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – ngazette.com

Candidates for Mayor of Wheat Ridge

JoyCe JayWheat Ridge is showing signs of a reawakening and a new

vitality. Let’s not stop the progress! We still need new businesses, more pedestrian- and bike-friendly areas, and more solid investing in development by the city. At the same time, we must encourage new families/visitors to experience our exceptional amenities such as the green belt, parks, restaurants, events and recreation center.

As mayor, I will pursue that renewal, but hold dearly to a community core that feels like a home town, OUR hometown – retaining our “pride of place” making Wheat Ridge the hometown everyone wants to call their own.

My experience includes a successful commercial photography business, four years on city council and many Wheat Ridge boards/commissions, including the Denver Regional Council of Governments. I am a 29-year resident whose daughter graduated from Wheat Ridge High.

My website: JoyceForMayor.com

Mike StiteSMy name is Mike Stites. I am 61 years old and my wife and I

have lived in Wheat Ridge all our life. I have been on city council the past 10 years. We have a family business that has been on 38th Avenue for over 60 years now. I have great respect for Wheat Ridge, the businesses and the citizens. We must encourage smart growth and a common-sense approach in looking towards the future. Above all we must have citizen input so that our future is not dominated by special interest groups. Wheat Ridge has great neighborhoods, parks and open space and we must continue to upgrade them to insure a clean and beautiful city. For these reasons, I am running for mayor of Wheat Ridge. Wheat Ridge is alive and well so let’s work together to keep Wheat Ridge a great place to be.

PaRk WoRthington (Write-in Candidate)As Wheat Ridge’s only write-in candidate due to a clerical error

on my petition, I realize that I need to know more about your views, and you. From visiting with hundreds of citizens, commerce within the city is an important concern for the majority.

Unknown to most that I spoke with is the fact that Wheat Ridge has a higher felony crime rate than the national average. Just as people review schools before locating to a city, businesses evaluate the crime statistics prior to investing in a community. My objective, as mayor, will be to restructure the priorities of the city, and take a proactive approach to crime.

With lower crime comes new commerce and owner-occupied homes, overall making for a more desirable community. Voice your thoughts with me by visiting my website: http://worthingtonformayor.com.

Candidates for Wheat Ridge City Council – District i

JeRRy DitullioCity council needs vision, leadership, experience and fresh ideas

the next four years. The City of Wheat Ridge is a diverse community of residents and businesses. I have made it a point to listen to both sides of an issue and find common ground. City council needs members who can make educated and informed decisions. I have never been one to make decisions based on spoon-fed information from a select few. My voting record and public policies speak for themselves. I enjoy working with citizens and businesses on win-win public policy with compromise as its key. Our city is too small to allow win-lose decisions by city council. Let’s change that together and get some work done. I respectfully ask for your vote this November. Questions or comments? Please visit www.jerryditullio.com or call 720-253-6785. Thank you!

MoniCa DuRanWheat Ridge needs strong leadership. That candidate is Monica

Duran. I currently serve on the boards of the Wheat Ridge Planning Commission, Jefferson Center for Mental Health and Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival. I have been endorsed by The Denver Area Labor Federation and The Latino Initiative.

I chose to run for office because I felt ignored as a voter. Wheat Ridge is a fantastic community. But, we are at a crossroads – how do we address budget concerns, create jobs, and increase tax revenue? Let’s work on this together.

My focus is on listening to our citizens. I will continue to support businesses, protecting our seniors and families, and listening to the will of the people in alleviating of the lane reduction on 38th Avenue. I support making Wheat Ridge a destination – not a stopover.

I am Monica Duran and I ask for your vote in November.

DaviS ReinhaRtI’m a licensed engineer with a master’s in construction

management. My 30-year career includes large municipal projects like Denver International and the Lowry Redevelopment. I love sharing my technical and real world experience with Wheat Ridge. I’m passionate about public service. That’s why I joined the Peace Corps after college and why I’m on the Wheat Ridge City Council, looking forward to a second term with your vote. I plan to keep meeting with constituents in neighborhood venues like the Olde Firehouse, so District I concerns are always on the agenda. I will focus on Wheat Ridge’s future, especially economic development and fiscal strategy. My priority goal is to work with fellow councilors to find a way to maintain and improve our infrastructure that meets the approval of you, the voter. I am eager to serve my friends in District I and our city in my second and final term.

kaRen thaleRMy name is Karen Thaler and I am a District I native. I attended

Steven’s Elementary, W.R.J.H., 1987 W.R.H.S. My occupation is landscape management. 2007-2008 Carnation Festival, 2010 Wheat Ridge Civic Academy, 2011 Wheat Ridge Citizen’s Police Academy. 2007-2011 represented Wheat Ridge as a state finalist for Mrs. Colorado earning Titleholder of the Year and Crowning Achievement awards for my community involvement. 2007-2011 read proclamations before city council meetings. 2011 wrote column titled “Hometown Pride” in the Gazette. My values are representing not only District I but the entire city, standing up for what I believe is fair, having great respect for the dollar and manner in which it is spent. I welcome citizen input because I firmly believe it’s the citizens who ultimately define a city’s success or failure. Any questions or comments I can be reached at dkthaler@msn.com or 303-587-4871. I kindly ask for your vote Nov. 5.

b & f1/16 v

stephen parks1/16 v

guy n1/12 h

Shake-up ahead at Wheat Ridge City hall?Wheat Ridge city government will soon have a new mayor and possibly four new city councilmembers. Three candidates are vying to fill the mayor’s seat, soon to be vacated by Jerry DiTullio, who’s

served the maximum term in that position. DiTullio and two others are challenging incumbent District I Representative Davis Reinhart. There’s one challenger to incumbent Joseph DeMott in District IV, and there are two candidates competing for each vacant seat in Districts II and III. According to the City of Wheat Ridge, the following are running for public office in Wheat Ridge’s November election:

Joyce Jay, Mike Stites and Park Worthington (write-in candidate) for MayorDavis Reinhart, Jerry DiTullio, Monica Duran and Karen Thaler for District I Representative

Zach Urban and Chad Harr for District II RepresentativeDick Matthew and Tim Fitzgerald for District III Representative

Joseph DeMott and Genevieve Wooden for District IV RepresentativeThe Neighborhood Gazette asked each candidate to submit a brief statement of who they are and why they are running for office. Here are their responses (listed in alphabetical order):

jessica klingsporn1/8 v

Joyce Jay

Mike Stites

Jerry DiTullio

Park Worthington

Monica Duran

Karen Thaler

Davis Reinhart

Advice is Always FreeYour Real Estate “Guy”

303 999-5789Guy@NostalgicHomes.com

Carousel CleanersNight DropFast & Convenient!

4040 W. 38th Ave. 303-477-1001

Family Owned for over 38 Years

“I have been a loyal customer of Carousel Cleaners for over 30 years. I trust Carousel

with all my fi ne cleaning.” JILL

Jessica KlingspornREALTOR, Wheat Ridge Specialist

303.845.2876Jessica@WheatRidgeExpert.comwww.WheatRidgeExpert.com

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE TOTAL COMMITMENTCALL ME TODAY

Klingsporn

SucculentsDozens of Varieties

Expert Advice

open every day

303-423-56064114 Harlan St., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

ngazette.com – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – NEIGHBORHOOD GAZETTE 5

Candidates for Wheat Ridge City Council – District II

CHAD HARR My wife and I have three children who attend elementary, middle

and high school in Wheat Ridge. I have started and currently run my own small business and I understand balancing budgets and what it takes to have vision, bring it forward, and motivate people to make it happen. I love the small town feel of the city, the location, and friendly people. Through my volunteer work in Wheat Ridge I have come to realize there is a potential for an even greater city. I have started Trunk or Treat, Wheat Ridge Garden Tour, Chicks in the Ridge tour, and I am on the Cultural Commission and the board of WR2020. I am not a politician, just a regular guy. My vision for the city includes enhancing the quality of life for everyone and making Wheat Ridge the best place in the metro area to raise a family, feel safe and be active.

ZACH URBANMy wife Melinda and I along with our two children live at 4740

Reed St. I own a consulting fi rm at 48th and Wadsworth. I consult nonprofi t organizations on various projects. I volunteer as the Vice-Chairman of the Wheat Ridge Housing Authority. I am responsible for hosting the Saints’ Peter and Paul community festival each year. I volunteer as a columnist for this paper. I pride myself in being the most accessible candidate in Wheat Ridge. I am very interested in listening to your ideas, opinions, and concerns. To this end, I have taken the time to create a community survey seeking your feedback. Please visit ZachUrban.org to take this survey. I sincerely want to know what you have to say about Wheat Ridge. Your vote entrusted to me will allow me to continue to work to make sure your voice is heard when decisions are made.

Candidates for Wheat Ridge City Council – District III

TIM FITZGERALDI spent my childhood in Wheat Ridge and went all through school

here. Wheat Ridge has wonderful neighborhoods and many other assets. Let’s face facts though: our main streets are looking a little tired, our shopping strips are half empty. Doing nothing doesn’t work.In the meantime, all of the cities around us are changing, and renewing themselves. Arvada has Olde Town. Lakewood built Bel Mar. Golden renewed their downtown while keeping the historic part intact. Denver has undertaken many projects including Tennyson Street. All of these projects are extremely successful and every single one of them has used a road diet.

It’s time for us to breathe some vitality into our hometown. We have a good start. The trial on 38th Avenue has brought us 34 new businesses that have invested in the future of the street.

There is no “back to the future” only the real future. Vote for Tim Fitzgerald.

DICK MATTHEWSMy experience of more than 30 years of business and tax

consulting has provided a broad knowledge base. That knowledge is combined with the willingness to listen. Listening to people that disagree with us give us an idea of the unintended consequences of our well-intended actions.

The road diet on 38th Avenue is a perfect example. The new energy and atmosphere are exactly what the city intended. However, the unintended consequence has been the diversion of traffi c into the surrounding neighborhoods and 32nd Avenue. Convenience stores and other automotive-related businesses along 38th that rely on high traffi c volume have suffered. The study that was the basis for the road diet forecast NO perceptible diversion of traffi c. On the Planning Commission I voted against the road diet because I thought the traffi c forecast lacked credibility.

The city needs to modify the road diet to minimize the traffi c diversion while retaining that energy. We have similar opportunities with the westward migration from the Highlands and the development around the light rail on Ward Road. I welcome the opportunities, but we also need to mitigate the unintended consequences to protect our neighborhoods.

Candidates for Wheat Ridge City Council – District IV

JOSEPH DEMOTTMy wife and I are both Wheat Ridge natives raising two young

children. I am a business owner celebrating 50 years in our location at Pietra’s Pizzeria, member of Council since 2009, Chairperson of the Wheat Ridge Business District, Chairperson Wheat Ridge Housing Authority and Carnation Festival executive board member.

I’m running for re-election because I believe in;• Maintaining a strong and well-trained police department• Defending personal property rights• Guiding Economic Development and Revitalization• Protecting the balance of history and progress If re-elected, my goals will remain very much the same, to

take advantage of my experience with working with many different generations of Wheat Ridge’s demographics. More importantly is to honor our community roots while guiding our community through local and regional challenges.

GENEVIEVE WOODEN

I have lived in Wheat Ridge in District IV for 19 years as both a homeowner and small business owner. My work experience includes retail management, law fi rm administration, stay-at-home mom, property management and I am currently a licensed real estate agent. I am married and have two children at Wheat Ridge High School.

I am running for city council because I would like to be a part of the growth and development of this city and create a positive and prosperous Wheat Ridge. We are poised to build a fantastic city of: parks, bike and walking paths, economic stability, urban agriculture, vibrant businesses, a successful 38th Avenue, and a close sense of community. However, we need to plan and take action to make this work. I would like to be elected to help plan the future for Wheat Ridge.

TOBACCO1/4 V

Chad Harr

Zach Urban

Dick Matthews

Joseph DeMott

Geneveive Wooden

the o� ce1/6

garett1/24 H

massage works1/24 H

Tim Fitzgerald 7000 W. 38th Ave720-536-5584

Now Open!

A new place to kick back and be pampered!

New Menu!American Comfort Food featuring

10 0z T-Bone Steak $9.99 – Cheapest in town! (after 4pm)

Daily Lunch Specials $4.95 (until 5pm) • Dinner Specials More Steak Choices • Pork Chops • Catch of the Day

Happy Hours3:30-6pm & 9pm-close • Bronco Game & Drink Specials

Completely Renovated!Casual Family Dining in the front lounge

Enjoy our relaxing new fi re pit on the patio

Sports Bar with 65” Screens 14 NEW Flat Screen TVsarcade games • pool table

$4500Massage Works

ONE HOUR

MassagEWITH THIs COUPON

Regular Price $50 Expires 11/30/2013

JoAnn M. Verhey, L.M.T. SwediSh • deep TiSSue

7053 W. 38th Ave. • 303-587-4291 Hours: 9:30 - 6 pm

Curtis J. GilmoreL i f e l o n g L e a r n i n g S c h o l a r s h i p F u n d

To donaTe go To

wheatridgefoundation.org/donate

To donate by check, please make donations payable to

Wheat Ridge Foundation, 4005 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, 80033

Just a $5 donation from every Wheat Ridge household would raise over

$75,000 to help fund lifelong learning.Donate today!

6 neighborhood gazette – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – ngazette.com

fitzgerald1/2 H

Falling For Fall, Flavors & Festivals

BY JEANNE NICHOLS

The month of October has always been one of my favorites, there is just

something about the smell in the air, the crisp and cool mornings and evenings that let us know summer is gone.

I love the rustle of leaves in the trees and then again on the ground as they blow and we try to rake them in piles to bag. How many of you, your children or your grandchildren have jumped into those piles and rolled around only to be scolded by the one raking for spreading the leaves again?

What would October be without pumpkins? We carve them, we bake with them, we throw them and we decorate with them. If you love pumpkins you sure don’t want to miss Glow at the Wheat Ridge Senior/Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 30. Or you could try painting your own pumpkins at the Fall Pumpkin painting and vino night at the Teller Gallery and Studio on Thursday, Oct. 24.

Some of my favorite vegetables come into season in the fall such as broccoli, artichokes, asparagus and spinach. One vegetable that has taken on new life for me is the beet. My mom loved and always served pickled beets, of which I wasn’t fond of, but more recently we are finding beets served in a whole new way such as the Beet Tartare at

the West 29th Restaurant and Bar.If you are a football fan or not, you have to

admit that October is alive with high school, college and professional teams. The Wheat Ridge Farmers could use your support – what a great evening of hot chocolate or apple cider and our very own high school team!

Would you rather participate than watch? Wheat Ridge has a wonderful place for you to participate in the crisp fall air of October, the Clear Creek Trail. This 6.5-mile trail runs just south of I-70 and Harlan to Youngfield Street. What better way to get the family out and moving, right in our own backyard.

Of course you can’t have the month of October without a little Oktoberfest – although the official time may have already come and gone, you can still celebrate at a few of Wheat Ridge’s new breweries: Brewery Rickoli and Colorado Plus Brew Pub.

Last but not least is Halloween. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Halloween, but I must tell you that it is my least favorite of all holidays...now don’t get crazy on me, it’s just that I’m a super fraidy-cat, and witches, goblins, ghosts, spiders and bats are just not my thing, nor do I enjoy things jumping out at me. In any case keep in mind that on Saturday, Oct. 26, The Ridge at 38th will be presenting Trunk or Treat, if you like spooky you won’t want to miss it.

Well, I guess my time is up reminiscing about October but there is one more reason I love October...it’s my birthday month!

Wheat Ridge resident Jeanne Nichols is the owner and Lead Designer/Home Stylist at modmood/RETRO Consign-ment at 44th and Wadsworth. She can be reached at jeanne@modmood.com or 303-728-9497.

HOME, GardEn & LifEstyLE

BY BrAd SJOSTrOm, LCSW

Fall weather brings a focus on addiction and mental health, especially as we

head into the holiday season. Last month was National Recovery Month, which is a time to celebrate those who are recovering from either a substance use disorder or a mental health condition. Addiction treatment and mental health services can enable people to live happy and rewarding lives. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Recovery Month spreads the positive message that behavioral health is essential to overall health, prevention works, treatment is effective and people can and do recover.”

Substance problems are highly prevalent in the U.S. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, in 2011 an estimated 22.5 million Americans aged 12 or older, or 8.7 percent of the population, had used an illicit drug or abused a psychotherapeutic medication (such as a pain reliever, stimulant or tranquilizer) in the past month. This is up from 8.3 percent in 2002. The increase mostly reflects a recent rise in the use of marijuana, the most commonly used illicit drug. Not all people who use such substances will do so habitually.

In terms of alcohol, roughly 51.5 percent of Americans are regular drinkers, which means they have at least 12 or more drinks a year. Moderate drinking is considered no more than four drinks a day and no more than 14 drinks a week for men, and no more than three drinks a day and seven drinks a week for women. Drinking beyond these thresholds is considered harmful.

The key is to identify when recreational drug use and moderate drinking becomes

a problem. A simple and straightforward gauge to measure if you or a loved one has a problem with drugs or alcohol is the CAGE screening:

• Has one tried to Cut back on drinking or drug use and has been unable?

• Have others grown Angry at the person’s drinking or drug use?

• Does one feel Guilty about his or her alcohol or drug use?

• Has one drank alcohol or used drugs in the morning as an Eye-opener to soothe a hang-over or prevent withdrawal symptoms?

If one responds yes to two of the four questions, there is a good chance the person is abusing substances. As an addiction escalates, all areas of a person’s life are affected: a person runs into legal issues, relational problems and job loss.

The reasons people succumb to addiction are variable. What we do know is there is a family correlation: if one has a parent who struggles with addiction, he or she is up to four times more likely to have an addiction.

Help for addiction can take many forms: from mutual help groups, such as Narcotic Anonymous, to more structured outpatient treatment or inpatient treatment for those who have more severe addiction issues. Like many issues, in order to change, the person seeking help needs to admit that he or she has a problem.

The good news, as evident by the history of Recovery Month, is that people can and do get better!

Brad Sjostrom, Licensed Clinical Social

Worker and Master Addiction Counselor, is the manager of the Recovery Center and the Assessment and Referral Team at Ex-empla West Pines Behavioral Health.

recognizing Addiction

MEdicaLLy spEakinG

PHOTO BY Blu IrOn PHOTOgraPHY

Mike StitesMAYOR

Zach UrbanDISTRICT 2

Jerry DiTullioDISTRICT 1

Dick MatthewsDISTRICT 3

Joe DeMottDISTRICT 4

From Different Paths…Moving Forward Together FOR 100% OF WHEAT RIDGE

ngazette.com – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – neighborhood gazette 7

W 44TH AVENUEFULL

“WE RENT ALMOST EVERYTHING”11401 W. 44th Ave. • 303-423-7448

A & JTIME

RENTALSINC.

7640 W. 44th Ave. 303-431-6499

We Fix Televisions, Stereos, Amplifiers,

Pro Audio, All Electronics

Modern And Vintage

Mon-Fri 9-6 • Sat 9-2

e5790 W. 44th Ave. • 303-421-4422

www.lookoptical.com/promotions-2.html

Back to School Special1 Pair Glasses: $49.99 Some restrictions apply

6191 W. 44th Ave. • (303) 463-1900www.homeinstead.com

SwissFlowerandGift.com

2 blks E of Kipling on 44th

303-424-7421

Experience 5000 sq. ft. of

“Retail Therapy”

9709 W. 44th Ave. • 303-463-9399

THUNDERBIRD MOTORCYCLES

& T- BIRD ROADHOUSE

Hair by Soph-ist-i Cut

7747 W. 44th Ave.720-569-7371benniedm7@gmail.com

Benita Martinez

Introductory Offer for First-Time ClientsCall for details!

New Salon Opening Nov. 1 Christian Care ServicesSpecializing in new mother and

customized care for the severly illJeanette Garnella – owner

16 years experience • 14 licensed caregiversP.O. Box 1963, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 • 303-487-6494

NOW OPEN AT OUR NEW STUDIO!

4550 Wadsworth Blvd., Suite H • 303-941-9554

destinationdancellc.comBRING IN AD FOR A FREE CLASS!

Life Happens. GIA helps you insure and protect it

Home - Medicare - Business - Auto - HeaLth - Life - Classic Car

Group Insurance Analysts, Inc. (GIA) is an independent agency located in Wheat Ridge. We specialize in individual insurance products,

as well as commercial and business insurance.

When the time comes for you to renew your insurance policy, give us a call for a no obligation quote!

Representing Our Clients’ Best Interests Since 1984

9195 West 44th Avenue • Wheat Ridge, CO 80033303-423-0162, ext. 100 • www.e-gia.com

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

FREETRIAL!

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

10930 W. 44th Ave. • 303-421-5876www.fourtogo.com

Four To Go4x4

Accessoriese

7640 W. 44th Ave. • 303-456-9494colocomputerclinic.com

ComputerCliniC

GENTLY USED

e9160 W. 44th Ave. (at Garrison)

303-993-4358

Used Furniture

and much, much more

9190 W. 44th Ave.

303-420-1690

Steak & Eggs $5.99 All Day

HAIR DESIGN, INC

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

9225 W. 44th Ave. 303-421-4515

Monday-Friday 11 AM to 6 PM

Saturday10 AM to 5 PM

9225 W. 44th Ave. 303-421-4515

www.drumcityguitarland.com

Mon-Fri 11 AM-6 PM • Sat 10 AM-5 PM

9695 W 44th Ave. • (720) 387-8165www.meineke.com

Distinctive Memorials Since 1912

7805 W. 44th Ave. • 303-422-3425

Norman’s Memorials, Inc.

Shop Local Retail • Services • Restaurants10 minutes to Golden • 10 minutes to Denver

shop44th.com

Retail • Services • Restaurants

44shop44th.com

• Sho

p Local • Retail • Services • Restaurants •

• Shop Local • Retail • Services • Resta

uran

ts •

Classic Trailer Sales4415 Ward Rd.303-467-0601

Long Shot Bar & Grill4400 Ward Rd.303-403-0227www.longshotsbar.com

Edward’s Meats12280 W. 44th Ave.303-422-4397www.edwards-meats.com

Abner’s Garden Center12280 W. 44th Ave.303-424-0180www.abnersgardencenter.com

Heinie’s Market11801 W. 44th Ave.303-425-9955

Best Friends Pet Care11440 W. 44th Ave.303-422-2055www.bestfriendspetcare.com

Classic Coiff eurs11460 W. 44th Ave. unit 2-3303-422-0341www.ccbeautyparlor.com

Auto Refl ection11114 W. 44th Ave.303-432-2852www.autorefl ectionspaintandbody.com

The Book Stop10840 W. 44th Ave.303-425-4960www.abookstop.com

5280 Gymnastics10601 W. 44th Ave.303-431-4456www.5280gymnastics.com

F & H Auto Upholstery10710 W. 44th Ave.303-424-2971fhautoupholstery.com

Best Way Sweeping10710 W. 44th Ave.303-420-7900

Raff aele’s Hair Studio10401 W. 44th Ave.303-420-1155www.raff aeleshairstudio.com

Rambling Rose10080 W. 44th Ave.303-420-3273

Premier Auto9998 W. 44th Ave. #A303-940-6009

Tubs Coin-Op Laundry9990 W. 44th Ave.303-423-5754

Westridge Veterinary9900 W. 44th Ave.303-424-5789www.westridgevet.com

Brown Dog School9900 W. 44th Ave.303-420-4468

Big Mamas Burritos9730 W. 44th Ave.303-420-9733www.bigmamasburrito.com

Dairy Queen9720 W. 44th Ave.303-421-8576www.dairyqueen.com

Blindery9751 W. 44th Ave. #102303-423-0402www.theblindery.com

Table Mountain Creative Concrete13050 W. 43rd Dr. #200303-903-4485tablemountaincreativeconcrete.com

Gunsmoke Gunsmithing Inc.9694 W. 44th Ave.303-456-4545www.gunsmokeguns.com

Big O Tire9491 W. 44th Ave. #105303-425-5545 www.bigotires.com

A and K Appliance Inc.9335 W. 44th Ave.303-985-1952www.akappliance.com

Wheat Ridge Auto Service9544 W. 44th Ave.303-424-6800

Young’s Market & Garden Center9400 W. 44th Ave.303-422-8408youngsmarketandgardencenter.com

Entenmann’s Bakery Outlet9192 W. 44th Ave.303-424-1432 www.entenmanns.com

GIA Insurance9195 W. 44th Ave.303-423-0162

2wice as Nice9155 W. 44th Ave.303-421-4100www.2wiceasnice.net

Pietra’s Pizzeria9045 W. 44th Ave.303-422-3317www.pietraspizza.com

44th Avenue Antiques9025 W. 44th Ave.303-422-6433

DTI Trucks8955 W. 44th Ave.303-524-3820www.dtitrucks.com

Dardano’s Interior Design8035 W. 44th Ave. #101303-432-8509

Mia Bella Hair Salon8020 W. 44th Ave.303-423-1990

Vincenza’s Italian Bakery & Deli8000 W. 44th Ave.303-420-8400www.vincenzabakery.com

AAA Colorado7770 W. 44th Ave.303-300-7701

Bearly Used7750 W. 44th Ave.303-945-4704

modmood7700 W. 44th Ave.303-728-9497www.modmood.com

44th Avenue Grill7605 W. 44th Ave. #F303-421-4544

Vern’s Liquors7605 W. 44th Ave. #A303-422-8293

Salsa’s Mexican Restaurant7630 W. 44th Ave.303-424-5099

POSTNET4385 Wadsworth Blvd.303-650-0233www.postnet.com

1st Bank4350 Wadsworth Blvd.303-423-1400 www.efi rstbank.com

My Crib Consignment7341 W. 44th Ave.303-432-8223www.mycrib-consignment.com

Diana’s of Denver Hair7337 W. 44th Ave.303-420-4441

Fashioned Trophies & Award7393 W. 44th Ave.303-422-2613www.trophystore.com

Wheat Ridge Used Furniture7250 W. 44th Ave.303-424-7454www.wheatridgeusedfurniture.com

ABC Tax Services6890 W. 44th Ave.303-422-1040www.abctaxserv.com

Al’s Pine Garden6815 W. 44th Ave.www.alspinegarden.com

Anthony M’s Vision in Gold6789 W. 44th Ave.303-424-1881www.visionsingold.com

Altitude Salon6749 W. 44th Ave.303-422-3123www.altitudesalon.com

Vital Chiropractic6290 W. 44th Ave.303-420-6023www.vitalchiropractic.net

Front Range K-9 Academy6719 W. 44th Ave.720-839-1102k9counselor.com

Harriet’s Treadle Arts6390 W. 44th Ave.303-424-2742

Beauty Inc.6200 W. 44th Ave.303-424-4612

L & L Coin & Stamp5500 W. 44th Ave.303-422-8500

If you succeed, we succeed

7100 W. 44th Ave. • 303-421-4775www.zarlengoraub.com

8 neighborhood gazette – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – ngazette.com

BY GUY NAHMIACH

Have you had your fill with all this talk of a “road diet” yet? Can we just focus

a little on the “education diet” we have been on for over 10 years? Colorado ranks near the bottom in terms of dollars spent per student in this country.

We are talking about having every student graduating from high school, helping them become college ready, and making sure they are equipped with the tools needed for tomorrow’s job market. You know, the important stuff. I know it is fun to root for our Broncos, but I would love to see more cheering for our students.

Attending Coffee With the Super last week, I heard all about our schools’ athletic championships. How about the number of Fortune 500 CEOs or successful politicians that graduated from our local schools? Tim Gill, founder of Quark Corporation, is from Wheat Ridge, as was Representative Daniel Schaefer.

Ten years ago our free and reduced

school meals level was 17 percent. Today we are fighting a 34 percent poverty level. That translates to more than a third of our students not receiving proper nutrition, basic healthcare and help with homework. While poverty is not an excuse, it is an obstacle to overcome as a community. Ensure that all students

have access to technology, art, music, physical exercise and proper nutrition no matter the socioeconomic situation at home. The frequency and level of exposure is debatable, but the goal throughout every level is to get our children ready for the rigors of solving challenges in their lives and careers.

Still, I only hear about our city politicians promising to “work

together” if they get elected. What about these last two years? It looks like our elections will be decided on the issues of back-in parking and number of traffic lanes on 38th Avenue.

If our politicians are so short on topics, here are just a few they can think about:

1. Adding sidewalks to streets where children are forced to walk on the road during rush hours on their way to and from school.

2. Get involved in our schools and be visible role models for our students.

On a lighter note, Halloween is around the corner and while it seems Star Wars is still the dominant force in the universe I always look forward to the original homemade costumes I open my door to every year. What are you getting dressed as?

By the way, I am still looking for young residents that will share their views on what our town needs to look like 10 years from now, for them to consider it as a future home.

As always, thanks for reading.Guy Nahmiach can be reached at 303-

999-5789 or Guy@NostalgicHomes.com.

Guy Nahmiach

Education, Politics & Star Wars?

school crossingAsk the SuperAnswers to Questions Posed to Schools Superintendent Cindy Stevenson

When is the Deadline to submit Unified Learning Plans?

When is the deadline for schools to submit Unified Learning Plans to the district, and can these be published right away to be shared with the community?

While the plans have to be submitted to the district by December for review and approval, they can certainly be prepared and shared with the accountability committee made up of parents, teachers at the start of the school year after scores are received.

What makes Jeffco schools a success today, and what improvements would you like implemented for them to remain successful 10 years from now?

I would want any child I loved to go to Jeffco schools because:• Jeffco has great teachers and students tell us they feel respected by them.• Principals love their schools, neighborhoods and the kids who attend those

schools. • As well as parents who want their children to be successful. Something that is

not common to all cities. Additionally, students and teachers enjoy air-conditioned classrooms.

As for the future, I want Jeffco to get even better for kids I love by:• Having a longer school year! • More teachers and smaller class sizes. • Challenging our students even more. Having more pathways for our students to finish high school successfully.

Thank you,Cindy Stevenson

If you have a question for Dr. Stevenson, please submit it to guy@NostalgicHomes.com or call it in to 303-999-5789.

makeup1/24 H

100& WHEAT RIDGE1/2 H

anthony ms1/12 H

MakeUp artist

520-461-6466FOr YOUr speCiaL eVeNt

www.facebook.com/MakeupbyLyndia

WeddingproM

birthdayModeLs

Walker’s Quality Cage & Feed Supply4298 Kipling St., Unit A • 303-424-0305 • 2% DISCOUNT FOR CASH!

Feeds for everything from mice to horses and everything in-between

Bring in this coupon for 10% OffANY SIZE PRECISE DOG & CAT FOOD

EXPIRES 11/16/2013

ngazette.com – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – neighborhood gazette 9

Teller Street Gallery Hosts Rotary Benefit Dinner and Auction, Oct. 25

Teller Street Gallery will host a Buffet Dinner and Silent Auction of art, books, curios and memorabilia to benefit the Wheat Ridge Rotary Foundation, Friday, Oct. 25, 6-9 p.m., at the 7190 W. 38th Ave. gallery.

The Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, will use proceeds to fund:

Uplift International, which provides reparative surgical care to poor, rural Filipino children born with facial deformities;

Friends of Guéoul, which underwrites and supports education of poor girls in the village of Guéoul, Sénégal;

Zimbabwe Mission Partnership, funding daily meals, clean water, clothing, medical care and education assistance to nearly 1,000 orphans in rural Zimbabwe;

Wheat Ridge Feed the Future, providing food items, every weekend during the school year, to students in eight Title I (free/reduced lunch eligible) Wheat Ridge elementary schools; and

Wheat Ridge Rotary Foundation Scholarship Program, providing two- and four-year scholarships to seniors graduating from Wheat Ridge, Jefferson and Warren Tech High Schools.

The dinner will be catered by Wheat Ridge’s Lukes, A Steak Place. Following the buffet meal, donated items and services will be auctioned from a starting minimum bid price, and bidding will conclude at 8:30 p.m.

Donations of items or services are welcome; contact Gregory Garner at 303-478-5662 or g.garner@comcast.net for more information.

Tickets are $20. Additional parking available is available at Wheat Ridge Middle School.

For event information or to RSVP, visit www.tellerstreetgallery.com.

Free Wellness Clinic, Flu Shots in Edgewater, Oct. 25

Colorado Senior Connections will host a free Walk-In Wellness Clinic with free flu shots and benefits screenings on Friday, Oct. 25, 2:30-4 p.m., at 2250 Eaton St.

Blood pressure, blood sugar and weight checks will be provided, and general health questions answered, by Dr. Hal Spitzer and the Red Rocks Community College PA program. St. Anthony’s Hospital’s community nurse will administer flu shots, and Hunger Free Colorado will offer benefit screenings.

Program partners include Brothers Redevelopment Inc., Jewish Family Service, and the City of Edgewater.

For more information, call Alison at 720-248-4591.

League of Women Voters Panel Discusses Human Trafficking Oct. 23

Human trafficking – an illegal, highly lucrative practice which can involve sexual slavery, forced labor and even organ extraction – will be explained and discussed at a panel discussion hosted by the Jefferson County League of Women Voters, Wednesday, Oct. 23, 7-9 p.m., at St. Anthony’s Hospital, 11600 W. 2nd Place, Lakewood.

Panelists include Assistant Jefferson County District Attorney Katie Kurtz, FBI

Special Agent Stephanie Benitez, Praxus Education and Advocacy Director Emily Lafferrandre, and JOY International founder and President Jeff Brodsky.

The meeting is open to the public. No reservations are required.

The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization. The LWV 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.

For more information about the Jeffco League of Women Voters, call Ann at 303-988-6019 or visit www.lwvjeffco.org.

Shred Sensitive Stuff Safely at Shred-A-Thon, Oct. 26

City of Edgewater is staging a free, drive-through Shred-A-Thon to safely and securely destroy documents containing personal information. Held Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Municipal Building, 2401 Sheridan Boulevard, specialized trucks will be on site to shred credit card statements/solicitations, bank statements, tax forms, medical statements, junk mail and other items containing personal information.

Forty three percent of security breaches are caused by physical means like dumpster diving. If information is shredded on site, there’s nothing in the trash for data thieves and it reduces the risk of a security breach.

Call 720-763-3012 or email dmaples@edgewaterco.com for more information.

Bike Pedestrian Advisory Team Meets Nov. 4

Want up-to-date information on efforts and upcoming opportunities to create a vibrant, pedestrian- and bike-friendly Wheat Ridge? Attend the Wheat Ridge Bike Pedestrian Advisory Team Meeting, Monday, Nov. 4, 6:30-8 p.m., at Wheat Ridge City Hall, 7500 W. 29th Ave. New Wheat Ridge Public Works Director Scott Brinks will be on hand to answer questions.

“This is such an exciting time for folks to come together and help shape their community,” said Rachel Hultin, LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator and Wheat Ridge resident. “We need engaged citizens working towards a vision that supports healthy, active living for all community members ages 8 to 80. We can help our elected officials and city staff understand that a more walk-able and bike-able environment supports local economies and improves community health.”

For more information, contact Wheat Ridge Transition Coordinator Rachel Hul-tin by phone, 303-667-0609, or email, LiveWellWheatRidge@gmail.com. Or visit www.LiveWellColorado.org.

RTD Staging Telephone Town Hall Meeting Nov. 13

Regional Transportation District board member Natalie Menten will host a live telephone town hall meeting with constituents on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m. Menten represents District M, which includes Lakewood, Golden and Wheat Ridge in central Jefferson County. Her tele-meeting is one of 15 staged by RTD board members throughout RTD’s territory between Oct. 24 and Nov. 13.

Residents will be called at random through an automated system and invited to take part in the public telephone forum. Those who choose to join in can learn the

WHAT’S HAPPENING

hip violetDIR H

MASSAGE WORKSDIR H

highlandsDIR H

latest about bus and light rail service, RTD’s FasTracks transit expansion program and other projects. Residents simply stay on the line after answering their phones and will be connected to the meeting automatically. During the session, participants can ask their elected board member questions and use their keypad to answer live polls.

Anyone who doesn’t receive a call, but wishes to participate, can dial 1-877-229-8493, and enter PIN No. 112070.

FasTracks is RTD’s voter-approved transit expansion program to build 122 miles of commuter rail and light rail, 18 miles of bus rapid transit service, add 21,000 new parking spaces, redevelop Denver Union Station and redirect bus service to connect the eight-county district better.

For more information, visit www.rtd-denver.com.

Run, Walk or Watch the Edgewater Collective 5K, Nov. 9

Run or walk along Edgewater’s streets while supporting community development efforts at the Edgewater Collective 5K fundraising footrace, Saturday, Nov. 9, starting and ending at Edgewater’s Citizen’s Park, 22nd and Benton. Day-of registration begins at 9 a.m., followed by the race at 10.

Organizer and beneficiary Edgewater Collective is a nonprofit organization

committed to providing hope through grassroots community development.

Fees are $25 for adults and $10 children (under 18), with t-shirts available for $10. Advance registration closes Friday, Nov. 8.

For more information, visit edgewater-collective.org/5k/.

Diabetic? Pre-Diabetic? New Support Group Meets Oct. 30

Living With Diabetes, a new support group for diabetic and pre-diabetic people, will hold its inaugural meeting Wednesday, Oct. 30, 1:30-2:30 p.m., in the Edgewater Recreation Room, 5845 W. 25th Ave.

The group aims to provide the tools and support needed to live a healthy life with diabetes. Run by St. Anthony’s Hospital’s Gloria Raigosa, RN, it features guest speakers and a nurse educator, as well as an opportunity to share with other people with diabetic and pre-diabetic conditions.

To register or for more information, call Alison at 720-248-4591 or email ajou-covsky@jewishfamilyservice.org.

JOYCE JAY1/8 H

teller st.1/16 V

Submit items to the

“What’s Happening” section

at editor@ngazette.com

After reAding About smAll librAr-ies in newspApers And mAgAzines, Wheat Ridge resident Carl Morrow decided to install one in his yard on Upham Court. “As a retired high school English teacher I hope to encourage reading even on this small level,” says Morrow. “I specialize in classics and mysteries due to the limited space. I also have a few children’s books for some neighbor kids. All are welcome to borrow, re-turn, and donate.” Morrow says it is the only registered small library library in the city. Visit littlefreelibrary.com for more information. PHOTO BY CARL MORROW

Highland West Apartments6340 W. 38th Ave Apartment living for seniors 62 and up303-424-8132 www.hwsca.com

Freezing or slow pc? Virus issues? These and more issues can be resolved

Frank E. Jesko • 720-255-5047PCbloos@yahoo.com

10 neighborhood gazette – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – ngazette.com

BY JERRY DITULLIOMayor, City of Wheat Ridge

The City of Wheat Ridge recognized outstanding businesses in the

community at the 10th Annual Business Appreciation Awards Breakfast on Sept. 25th. Local leaders and members of the business community joined to celebrate the achievements of Wheat Ridge businesses in six categories.

Citizen’s and local businesses nominated their choice for the Business of the Year and the Reinvestment Award. Nominations were reviewed and winners selected by a team of Jefferson County business professionals. The individual or organization sponsoring the other awards selected their winners.

Business of the Year: Swiss Flower and Gift Shop, owner Heide Haas-Sheard. This award recognizes a business that exemplifies the Best in Business and represents the values of the community.

Other nominees included: Big O Tires, The Brown Dog School, Christopher House, Food for Thought Catering, Golden Wealth Solutions, Right Coast Pizza, Teller Street Gallery and Studios, Thank ‘em Promotions, Vinyl Works, Walker’s Quality Cage & Feed, and Wheat Ridge Liquors.

Reinvestment Award Winners: Colorado Plus and West 29th Restaurant and Bar

This award recognizes a business that has demonstrated one or more of the following: made a significant investment in its property, improved the overall appearance of the site, maintained property at the highest standards, or updated their building in a manner to make it more marketable.

Other nominees included: Bob Perry and Associates, Colorado Plus, King Soopers, RDC Properties, and T-Bird Roadhouse

Cultural Commission Award Winner: Teller Street Gallery and Studios

This award recognizes a business that has made an impact on the community through one or more of the following: promoting/encouraging culture and the arts, promoting awareness of our cultural activities, diversity, or heritage, supporting opportunities in art education for all ages or incorporating art into the architecture and design of their building.

Other nominees included: The Art Lounge, Mod Mood and Retro Consignment, and Water Whispers

Mayor’s Business & Community Partnership Award Winner: Wheat Ridge Police Department and Wheat Ridge Business Association for the Feed the Future Program

The Mayor recognizes a company or program for their overall contributions. The award incorporates criteria from all categories as well as contributions in volunteerism, leadership, and community investment, but must also include involvement with the mentoring, training, and partnering with youth in the community.

WRBA Member of the Year Award: Teller Street Gallery and Studios

This award is given to the WRBA member of the year for their contribution to the organization and the community.

Special Recognition Award Winner: Able Planet

A special recognition award was given to Able Planet for being named a 2013 Colorado Company to Watch by the state office of economic development and international trade and the Edward Lowe Foundation.

Contact Mayor Jerry DiTullio at City Hall, 303-235-2800, with comments and questions.

MIKE STITES1/2 H

Wheat Ridge City NeWs

WR PHARMACY1/8 V

CAROUSELS1/16 V

sw gardens1/16 V

Business Appreciation AwardsB & F Tire Co.

In business & family owned for 58 years

ALiGNMeNTSTireS oiL CHANGeSBrAKeSRotate/Balance $35Radiator Flush $69

(most cars)

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

6650 West 38th Ave.303-421-6111

HappyHalloween!

Open Mon.-Fri, 8:30a.m.-6p.m., Sat, 8:30a.m.-1p.m.

Steven M. ParksMaster Goldsmith and Designer

RepairsCustom Design

Diamonds Colored Stones

AppraisalsWatch Batteries

Gold BuyerEstate Buyer

5870 West 38th AvenueWheat Ridge, CO 80212

303.233.2112Tues & Wed. 11-5, Fri. 10-3

Or call for an appointment

www.stevenparksgoldsmith.com

ngazette.com – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – neighborhood gazette 11

BY BONNIE MCNULTYMayor, City of Edgewater

Have you missed the yard signs yet? School Board Candidates are the

only signs in town this year. With only three council seats and one mayor seat up for election in Edgewater, and only three candidates for Council and one candidate for Mayor it’s been a quiet campaign. Even though there are not any yard signs you still have a chance to meet your candidates. There is a flyer circulating to introduce you to the council candidates, and there will be the traditional Mayor’s Coffee on October 22nd. Candidates and elected officials from the city, Jefferson County Schools, and the State legislature have been invited to meet you and your local candidates.

Congratulations on the success of Edgewater’s Day of Service. Seventy six volunteers stepped up to make minor repairs, paint, and clean up yards for 14 seniors. Edgewater Ace Hardware donated the materials, Einstein’s Bagel provided breakfast, and volunteers brought their own tools. For lunch Patrick Martinez from Parks and Recreation cooked hamburgers for the volunteers. We do live in a great community!

Edgewater’s first attempt at a City Wide Garage Sale was spear headed by Councilwoman Myra Keeble. Eighty seven families formally participated, with a few extras joining in at the last minute. The event has been well received by the community and I would like to thank Myra for her dedicated focus on this project!

NEw BUsINEssEsIn the last several months several new

businesses opened their doors in Edgewater.

I hope to feature a business (both old and new) in each month’s column. This month I would like to introduce you to The Creative Station located at 5217 West 25th Avenue. Taylor Martin offers private sewing and music lessons. Her feature for the month

of October is ‘Costume Month.’ Taylor’s very colorful business card invites you to “Come Design and Create your very own unique Halloween costume.” Call for an appointment (914) 494-9363. What a fun concept!

HOUsE NUMBErsAt my last Wednesday Coffee

I was asked if residents are required to have house numbers on their homes. Emergency

services like fire and police, as well as postal, delivery, and utility services depend on address identification signs. While required by law in most cases, for the safety of your family please make sure your house numbers are visible from the street. I also encourage you to put them on the alley side of your garage as well. It is important that emergency services are able to find you as quickly as possible.

Please come to the Mayor’s traditional Candidates Coffee on October 22nd from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Edgewater Coffee Shop, 5224 West 25th Avenue. The Edgewater Council Candidates will be there, and I have invited many other regional candidates and elected officials. This is a great opportunity to come out and chat with your candidates and neighbors about the future of Edgewater.

Do not forget on Wednesday mornings from 9:00 to11:00, at the Edgewater Coffee Shop, I will buy your coffee (or tea) just for stopping by and chatting.

Edgewater mayor Bonnie McNulty can be reached at 303-233-6216 or bjmcnul-ty2@comcast.net.

Bonnie McNulty

This & That

Edgewater Moving Forward

EdgEwatEr City CounCil

EdgEwatEr City nEws

BY LAUrA KEEGAN

Edgewater is a city in motion, moving progressively forward

during the past decades. We have evolved into a unique community. Edgewater has gained the reputation of a destination city: sought-after housing, thriving businesses, sports activities, events and classes offered by our ambitious recreation department, block parties, city-wide garage sales, and a Celtic Harvest Festival deemed by participants to be one of the best.

We reach out to local families who need our help, give aid and an ear to our elderly, many of whom founded our city and still provide us with their knowledge. They remind us of what Edgewater was, is and always should be. We have opened our arms and hearts to our wonderful sense of small-townsmanship. Edgewater has become a welcoming oasis, a budding community in a vast world of urban sprawl. Though we are only one square mile in size, we are determined to be a city where people come to visit, live and enjoy a sense of ownership.

Edgewater has made strides since hiring a city manager in 2009. A revamping of our city structure has given rise to a community that is well cared for with plans in place to lead its citizens and businesses into the future. Our leaders and citizens have looked ahead to develop plans that will continue to make us strong.

As Edgewater progresses, the need for local news increases. The Neighborhood Gazette, with a circulation of 15,000

(free and delivered to most homes and businesses in Wheat Ridge/Edgewater), has provided columns for our mayor and

city council, as well as space for local coverage. Our citizens and businesses should consider the benefits of supporting and actively participating in the Neighborhood Gazette. We should not miss out on this opportunity to share our city’s numerous assets.

The Neighborhood Gazette’s September issue had approximately 51 articles. Edgewater was featured in

five, about 22 percent, of the articles. Of approximately 50 business ads, only two, or 4 percent, were for Edgewater businesses. With the paper’s healthy circulation of over 15,000 papers delivered in the Wheat Ridge/Edgewater area, those advertising in it are experiencing a positive impact and increased business from their ads. This is a great opportunity for our businesses to think about the advantages of utilizing the Neighborhood Gazette to reach out to the local communities. We also encourage our citizens to share news or story ideas with the paper.

It would be great to open future editions of the Neighborhood Gazette and see more local coverage, not to mention the possibility of more customers visiting our businesses—a terrific benefit to keep our city moving ahead.

Anyone not receiving a copy of the Neighborhood Gazette should contact Tim Berland at tberland@ngazette.com.

Edgewater Councilwoman Laura Keegan can be reached at lkeegan@edge-waterco.com.

Laura Keegan sloanside1/4 V

BY J. PATrICK O’LEArY

Edgewater will elect a mayor and three city council members in the upcoming

Nov. 5 unified election.All four candidates are running

unopposed, but they are willing to buy voters a coffee and answer questions.

Incumbent Edgewater mayor Bonnie McNulty will join incumbent councilwomen Janka Flaska and Laura Keegan, as well as new candidate Janet Spangenberg, at a Mayor’s Coffee, Tuesday, Oct. 22, 5-7 p.m., at Edgewater Coffee Co., 5224 W. 25th Ave. McNulty has also invited state, county, and school district candidates and elected officials to attend.

The public is invited to meet the candidates and share their concerns.

For those who can’t make it, here’s what they had to say about public office:

“I am excited to serve on council as part of a group of dedicated individuals who are working for Edgewater,” said current councilwoman Janka Flaska. “I will strive to honor constituent visions for our community in these next four years by

encouraging sound development policy, promoting small business, celebrating our schools and welcoming families. Please email me with comments or questions at jflaska@edgewaterco.com.”

“It will be a privilege and an honor to represent the citizens of Edgewater for another four years,” said current councilwoman Laura Keegan. “I will continue to be a voice for the citizens of Edgewater and assure that our city is the best it can be. We must look forward and not be afraid of change while remaining true to our core value: Community is our strength. Please vote in this important election. You can contact me at: 303-232-0745 or laura4edgewater@gmail.com.”

“I shall represent our community toward enhancing our quality of life through economic growth, safety, preserving our small town atmosphere, maintaining the city’s infrastructure, and fostering cultural amenities,” said city council candidate Janet Spangenberg. Contact her at SpangenbergJanet@gmail.com.

McNulty made no campaign statement, other than issue the invitation.

Edgewater Candidates Unopposed, But willing to Buy You Coffee

wALKEr1/12 H

WE BUY GOLD, SILVER

& COINS

~A Custom Jeweler You Can Trust~

Family Owned Business Since 1985

BEST OF JEFFCOCRITIC’S CHOICE

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

12 neighborhood gazette – OCTOBER 18 – NOVEMBER 12, 2013 – ngazette.com

DAVIS REIHARTFULL