The Arvada Report : Dec 2009 - Jan 2010

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New City Council Sworn In November 9 hree Councilmembers took the oath of office on Monday, November 9 following the November 3 election. Don Allard, former District 1 Councilmember, defeated incumbent Aaron Azari for the AtLarge seat; Shelley Cook defeated Robert Fifer for the District 3 seat vacated by termlimited Lorraine Anderson; Rachel Zenzinger defeated Gus Spano and Robert Wolf for the District 1 seat vacated by Don Allard.

See official election results on page 2

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Arvada Places Second in Nation as Top Digital City

he most technologically advanced cities in America have been named by e.Republic’s Center for Digital Government and Digital Communities magazine, and for the seventh time the City of Arvada has placed in the Top Ten Digital Cities in the population category of 75,000 – 124,999. In fact, this year Arvada rose to second place in the nation behind only Santa Monica, California. continued on page 2

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Left to right: Don Allard, At-Large Councilmember; Bob Dyer, District 4 Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem; Rachel Zenzinger, District 1 Councilmember; Bob Frie, Mayor; Shelley Cook, District 3 Councilmember; Mark McGoff, District 2 Councilmember; and Marc Williams, At-Large Councilmember.

Critical Beltway Vote Approaching At the December 16 meeting of the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG), the Board of Directors will hold a public hearing on whether to include the Jefferson Parkway—the last significant piece of the metropolitan beltway—on the fiscally constrained Metro Vision Regional Transportation Plan. Make your voices heard! The Board will vote on the issue at their January 20, 2010 meeting. See page 3 for more information.

2009 Citizen Survey Results Are In! The final report from the 2009 Arvada Citizen Survey have been compiled and are available on the City’s web site at www.arvada.org.

Board and Commission Applications are Due January 15 See pages 6-7 for more information and application form.

Prescription Drug Discount Program Now Available In cooperation with the National League of Cities, the City of Arvada is now a participant in a Prescription Drug Discount Program which can help those without health insurance, or whose insurance does not cover the cost of prescriptions, to receive up to a 20% discount on the retail cost of prescription drugs. See page 23 for more information.

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

A Top Digital City continued from page 1 The Digital Cities Survey examines how cities use technology to create a seamless environment between local government and constituents.

As part of its entry submission, City staff highlighted a number of key projects and technologies that distinguish Arvada from other organizations, and also published its strategic technology plan. Arvada has embraced social media and become a leader in this area, integrating with You Tube and Flickr to deliver video and pictures on all City web sites and engaging citizens through the use of tools such as Twitter and Facebook. Check out all of the social media tools in one place at http://arvada.org/find-us-online.

The City also offers access to information around the clock with its awardwinning Ask Arvada citizen response management system.

The top ten cities in the 75,000 – 124,999 category are (in order of ranking): City of Santa Monica, CA; City of Arvada, CO; City of Roanoke, VA; City of Richardson, TX and City of West Palm Beach, FL (tie); City of Ann Arbor, MI and City of Independence, MO (tie); City of Lee’s Summit, MO and City of Pueblo, CO (tie); City of Westminster, CO; City of Lawrence, KS and City of

Mayor Bob Frie 303-420-1234 (w) BFrie@arvada.org

Official November 3, 2009 City Council Election Results At-Large Allard Azari

9,581 50.77% 9,289 49.23%

District 1 Rachel Zenzinger 2,596 53.68% Gus Spano 1,600 33.09% Robert Wolf 640 13.23% Left to right: Teresa Goodwin, GEH AT&T; Lorraine Anderson, Former Arvada City Councilmember; Todd Sanders, Center for Digital Government; Michele Hovet, City of Arvada; Mark Williams, Arvada City Councilmember; Brett Bailey, Hyland-Onbase.

Councilmember At-Large Don Allard 303-420-6559(h) DAllard@ arvada.org

Councilmember District Three Shelley Cook 720-935-9224 (c) SCook@arvada.org cooksj@ attglobal.net

District 3 Shelley Cook Bob Fifer

2,935 68.85% 1,328 31.15%

Total voter turnout: 30.28%

Councilmember Councilmember Councilmember District Two At-Large District One Mark McGoff Marc Williams Rachel Zenzinger 303-423-5258 (h) 303-940-7593(h) 303-748-0770 (c) 720-898-7000 303-424-4486(w) RZenzinger@ ext. 2196 (w) MWilliams@ arvada.org MMcGoff@ arvada.org arvada.org The Arvada Report is a newsletter published by the Arvada City Manager’s Office, 720-898-7500, City of Arvada, 8101 Ralston Road, Arvada, Colorado 80002. It is distributed to all residences and businesses in the City. The City of Arvada holds the ownership rights and copyrights in the design and articles contained in The Arvada Report. Articles may only be reproduced with the express permission of the City of Arvada.

Graphic Design: Steve Milke. Photography and other graphic assitance: KATV Channel 8.

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Mayor Pro Tem Councilmember District Four Bob Dyer 303-456-4646 (h) 303-423-8080 (w) BDyer@arvada.org

Ogden, Utah (tie); City of Boulder, CO; and Village of Schaumburg, IL. The survey is open to all U.S. cities with a population of 30,000 or more.

Respondent cities are classified into four size-based categories.

The Center for Digital Government is a national research and advisory institute on information technology policies and best practices in state and local government.

Arvada has been named a top Digital City in 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009. The 2009 award was presented at the National League of Cities 2009 Congress of Cities in San Antonio, TX on November 12.

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Jefferson Parkway Faces Critical Vote he Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority (JPPHA), comprised of Jefferson County, the City and County of Broomfield, and the City of Arvada, was formed in 2008 with the goal of constructing the last significant remaining piece of the metropolitan beltway, closing the gap between State Highway 128 in Broomfield and State Highway 93 at approximately W. 58th Avenue north of Golden.

The JPPHA has made significant progress towards achieving its goal. The next critical step in the process is for the Jefferson Parkway to be included in the Denver Regional Council of Government’s (DRCOG) Fiscally Constrained Metro Vision Regional Transportation Plan, which describes the highest priority transportation projects that can be accommodated with future expected revenues. The DRCOG Board of Directors will hold a public hearing on this item at their December 16, 2009 meeting, and vote on the issue at their January 20, 2010 meeting.

The completion of the beltway is not just a Jefferson County issue—it is a Denver metropolitan area issue. A completed beltway is a necessity for effective transportation in the Denver metropolitan area.

To state otherwise ignores not only future projections about population and traffic growth, but current conditions and the already evident lack of mobility in northern Jefferson County.

Over the past two decades employment and population growth have soared in the Denver metro area. In the five- county region of Jefferson, Boulder, Broomfield,

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Larimer, and Weld counties, employment increased from 560,000 jobs to 725,000 jobs, or 30%. Jobs bring workers and their families from outside the region and outside the State—causing the five-county population to grow over the same time period by 28%. With roughly 2.3 cars per household, it is no surprise that traffic volumes grew proportionately. During this growth period, the increased traffic in the northwest metro area has been forced onto local streets and State highways that are not suited (nor were they designed for) such loading. The “defacto” beltway includes Indiana Street, Alkire Street, Ward Road, and Wadsworth Boulevard to name a few.

“We hope a plan goes forward that can close the beltway around Denver—40 years after the idea was first proposed.”

The Denver Post Editorial Page, March 23, 2008

While a vocal minority in the City of Golden continues to push for improvements to existing Jefferson County local roads, the required funding (some $900 million dollars) is not budgeted and this “fix” would still result in intersections rated at a level of service “F” or “fail.” Failing intersections and a tab for $900 million dollars is not the answer to the problem. Indeed, transporta-

tion funding in the State of Colorado faces a quiet crisis; funding levels are insufficient to maintain the current system, so new capacity projects are completely unfundable.

The Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority looks to the private sector to fund, by means of a toll road, the completion of the beltway along an alignment that has been on metropolitan transportation plans since the 1960s.

The construction of the Jefferson Parkway is a matter that affects 2.5 million residents in the Denver metropolitan area.

As the late Rocky Mountain News stated in a March 25, 2008 editorial: “Beltways enhance much-needed suburb to suburb connections. They take traffic off local streets. They provide motorists with more direct routes to their destinations, thus saving them time and the money spent on increasingly expensive gasoline.” The Denver Post concurred in a March 23, 2008 editorial: “We hope a plan goes forward that can close the beltway around Denver—40 years after the idea was first proposed.” The Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority is prepared to do just that.

Make your voices heard! Support the inclusion of the Jefferson Parkway on the DRCOG Fiscally Constrained Metro Vision Regional Transportation Plan. You may submit comments online at the following website: http://www.drcog.org/ publiccomment/dsp_postComment.cfm?subjectormeeting=Cycle2_2009_commentsonAmendments. For more information visit http://www.drcog.org/index.cfm?page=Dec.16,2009,PublicHearing or contact Jill Locantore with DRCOG at 303-480-6752.

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

City of Arvada Employee Corner Employees of the Month The Employee of the Month is nominated by fellow workers and chosen by a subcommittee of the City’s Employee Committee. Recipients are honored in front of the employee body and presented a certificate and gift by City Manager Craig Kocian. Their name is engraved on a plaque which hangs at the main entrance of Arvada City Hall.

Kim Grant Kim Grant, Grants Administrator for the City of Arvada, was the September Employee of the Month. Grant has been with the City since 1999.

Grant coordinates project development, prospect research, proposal writing, and grant implementation Grant and reporting responsibilities across departments, and has secured literally millions of dollars in funding for the City of Arvada which have made possible such projects as historic Olde Town revitalization and park acquisitions. His nominators state, “Since 1999, Kim Grant has built a successful, high-achieving grant-making fortress, and this has only occurred because he has served as its strong foundation. He is able to translate discussion into action, insuring our grant applications are positioned in the best possible way for the grantor’s consideration. He is a consummate professional who does what he does very, very well.”

What Arvada Residents Say About City of Arvada Employees In the 2009 Arvada Citizen Survey, respondents were asked if they had had contact with a City employee within the last 12 months. Those who had were asked their opinion on a number of characteristics. The percentage of respondents whose impression was “good” or “very good” are as follows: Professional attitude, 83% Knowledgeable: 82% Willingness to help or understand: 79% Overall impression: 78% These rankings are all above national averages. For more results from the 2009 Arvada Citizen Survey, visit www.arvada.org.

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PD Employee Highlights VanderVeen Promoted to Sergeant Robert VanderVeen was recently promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant VanderVeen joined the Arvada Police VanderVeen Department in 1993 and has worked a variety of assignments during that time including Patrol, Criminal Investigations Bureau, DUI officer, polygraph specialist, bicycle officer, and field training officer.

One of his assignments in the Criminal Investigations Bureau was to coordinate the investigation of the Youth With A Mission shootings occurring in December 2007. Following his promotion to sergeant, VanderVeen has been assigned to the Patrol Bureau.

Rzeppa Recognized by West Chamber Sergeant Jo Ann Rzeppa was honored for her extraordinary work at the Arvada Police Department at Rzeppa the Celebrate Women of Jefferson County event, hosted by the West Chamber of Jefferson County in November.

Sergeant Rzeppa has established herself in the field of law enforcement and attained the position of sergeant through hard work and determination.

Having worked in Patrol, Investigations, and Administration, she now oversees the School Services Unit for the Department.

“Jo Ann works tirelessly to ensure the effective operation of the School Resource Officers and the safety of the children of Arvada,” said Commander Jim Keating. “She has forged positive relationships within the School District with everyone from the Superintendent to individual teachers in the classroom and even the students themselves.”

Commander Keating adds, “You can find Jo Ann in the classroom reading to kindergarteners, teaching safety classes in the elementary schools, and offering instruction and guidance at the middle and high school levels in addition to her supervisory duties at the Police Department.”

Patricia Kelly Named Top Victim Advocate in State Patricia Kelly, Victim/ Family Support Advocate at Ralston House, received the 2009 Deana Kelly Griswould Award for Outstanding Victim Advocate in the Non-Profit Sector from the Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance. The award was presented at their annual conference in Keystone this past October.

“As a victim advocate, Patricia is not only knowledgeable and compassionate with children, teens, and their families, but also mentors Ralston House volunteers to guide them in their assistance to the nearly 700 families who visit the center each year,” said Don Moseley, executive director of Ralston House

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Arvada Crews Excel at National Snow and Ice “Roadeo� ity of Arvada streets department employees Tom Bucholz, Ron Mann, Tom Swartwood, and Brian Williams have one thing to say to Mother Nature: Bring it on! These skilled equipment operators proved they can tackle whatever winter has to offer at the 2009 National Snow and Ice Conference and Roadeo. Cities, counties, and states send their best crews to this national competition which puts two-person teams through a written test, a diagnostic test, and an obstacle course.

The written test assesses knowledge of the rules and laws that govern commercially licensed drivers. The diagnostic test requires the operator to inspect a plow truck and discover four mechanical defects within five minutes (defects can be as minute as a missing bolt or nut). Finally, each operator drives through an obstacle course designed to test their ability to negotiate very tight obstacles made of cones, barrels, and barricades. The clearance on each side of the truck is typically about one inch with no room for error.

Bucholz and Mann placed third in the Single Axle Truck; Swartwood and Williams placed third in the Tandem Axle Truck.

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Aaron Azari Leaves Council After Eight Years

Former At-Large City Councilmember Aaron Azari lost his re-election bid to Don Allard on November 3. Azari served from 2001 - 2009.

Left to right: Tom Swartwood, Ron Mann, Tom Bucholz, and Brian Williams.

Lorraine Anderson Honored for 24 Years of Service

Former Arvada City Councilmember Lorraine Anderson, far right, is roasted by Jefferson County Commissioners Faye Griffith (far left) and Kathy Hartman at a November 19 recognition ceremony.

Ms. Anderson, who served 24 years on the Arvada City Council as the District Three representative, was term limited. Councilmember Shelley Cook was elected to the District Three seat on November 3.

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

City Council Seeking Applicants For Citizen Appointed Boards and Commissions he Arvada City Council is recruiting for applicants to fill vacancies for 2010 on the Boards and Commissions listed below. Information is also available on the City’s web site at www.arvada.org, or call the City Clerk’s Office at 720-898-7550.

Boards and Commissions are established for the purpose of acquiring and studying information in specific areas and to make recommendations to the City Council on issues within the Board’s area of expertise. Some Boards are quasi-judicial and have decision-making powers within their areas of expertise; some are advisory Boards to both staff and City Council. The City relies heavily on citizen volunteers to study special community issues, provide staff direction, obtain public comment on key projects, and take action or offer recommendations to Council on any number of matters. These groups are the community’s voice that influences public policy and decisions that impact the entire City.

The recruitment period is December, 2009 through January 15, 2010. Applications, along with the accompanying questionnaires, are due in the City Clerk’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 15, 2010. Each application must be accompanied by the questionnaire specific to the Board for which you are applying. The questionnaires can be obtained on the City’s web site at www.arvada.org or through the City Clerk’s Office. You may also attach a short resume, although it is not required. Tentatively, applicants will be selected for interviews the week of February 8, 2010 with interviews scheduled for the week of February 22, 2010. Appointments will be made in April.

Description of Boards and Commissions With 2010 Vacancies Arvada Council for the Arts and Humanities - Arts Council members advocate for the arts and humanities and for the Arvada Center, and are committed fundraisers and informed advisors to the City of Arvada and Arvada Center staff. Projects on the current work plan, both short-term and long-term, include: establishment of a Public Art Policy; support of increased goals for the annual operating fund; promoting education opportunities at the Arvada Center; and targeted recruitment of Board Membership. Board meetings are generally on the second Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m., with committee meetings at various other times on a monthly basis. This is a volunteer appointment. Term of office is three years.

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Arvada Festivals Commission* – Sponsors, coordinates, plans, and works with communitybased organizations on festivals of communitywide celebration by promoting activities consistent with public celebration. Members participate as active volunteers in putting together current festivals and events as well as helping to create new ones for the City and citizens of Arvada.

Responsibilities include: • Regularly attend at least 8 of the 12 monthly meetings scheduled in the calendar year; • Participate in the planning of at least two of the Commission’s events by attending subcommittee meetings for these events or operational committees; • Volunteer to work and actively take part on the day of at least two additional Commission events; • Maintain and submit Commission documentation as necessary (volunteer hours, budgets, sub-committee meeting notes, etc.)

Meets generally on the fourth Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m. This is a volunteer appointment. Terms are for three years.

Arvada Liquor Licensing Authority* Considers new and transfer-of-ownership applications for liquor licenses and conducts hearings on alleged violations of the liquor code. Meets generally on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Appointees are paid $75 per meeting. Terms are for three years.

Arvada Urban Renewal Authority – AURA is responsible for the revitalization of three distinct urban renewal districts: Ralston Fields, Village Commons, and the Jefferson Center, as well as two new future districts, the Olde Town Station and the proposed Northwest Arvada.

AURA’s goal is to redevelop properties within the urban renewal districts; to afford maximum opportunity for the rehabilitation or development of the urban renewal area; to stabilize and provide for additional commercial, office, retail, and residential development opportunities to serve the needs of the City of Arvada and the regional area; and to maximize return to the City of Arvada through sales and property tax collections by optimizing the fiscal assets and the real estate assets, both AURA-owned and privately owned. The Board of Commissioners meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at AURA’s office at 5601 Olde Wadsworth Boulevard, Suite 210. This is a volunteer appointment. Terms are for five years.

Board of Adjustment* – Hears all appeals of the zoning ordinance and requests for variances to the Land Development Code. Meets generally on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Appointees are paid $75 per meeting. Terms are for three years.

Gold Line Committee*– The Gold Line Advisory Committee addresses issues related to the Gold Line, a commuter rail corridor due to open in Arvada in 2016. The committee provides education to the community related to the Gold Line, solicits public feedback on Gold Line issues, and provides advice to City Council on such matters as transit station design. This is a volunteer appointment. Meets generally on Thursday evenings once a month at 6:00 p.m.

Terms are for three years.

Human Services Advisory Committee* Advises the City Council on the allocation of funding from the Human Services funding pool, as well as the funding for public services from the Community Development Block Grant.

Meets generally four to six times per year in the evening. This is a volunteer appointment. Terms are for three years.

Park Advisory Committee* - Prioritizes and makes recommendations to the City Council on projects for parks, open spaces, and trails; works with the City’s Parks, Golf, and Hospitality Department to prioritize park and open space issues; actively participates in park dedications and occasional field trips to parks, trails, and open space areas; and works cooperatively with Apex Park and Recreation District Board and staff. This committee meets generally on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.

This is a volunteer appointment. Terms are for three years.

Planning Commission* - Serves as an advisory body to the City Council and reviews annexations, rezonings, subdivisions, and planned unit developments, and formulates a long-range comprehensive plan. Meets generally on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. Appointees are paid $100 per meeting.

Terms are for four years.

Transportation Committee* - Prioritizes transportation improvement projects and recommends possible funding alternatives. Meets as needed in the evening, usually several meetings per year. This is a volunteer appointment.

Terms are for three years. *You must be a resident of the City of Arvada to apply.

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

CITY OF ARVADA

2010 City of Arvada Boards and Commissions Application Form The Boards and Commissions listed below will have vacancies occurring in 2010. If you are interested in applying, please fill out this application form AND the questionnaire specific to each Board or Commission. The questionnaires are available on the City’s web site at www.arvada.org or by calling the City Clerk’s office at 720-898-7550. Please submit both the completed application form AND questionnaire to the City Clerk’s office by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 15, 2010.

Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________

Zip Code: __________________

Home Phone Number: ________________________________________________________________________________________ Work Number: ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Cell Number: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fax Number:________________________________ E-Mail: ________________________________________________________ Occupation: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name of Company/Firm: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Prior Work Experience: ________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Education: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Indicate up to three Boards and Commissions on which you would be interested in serving by ranking them as 1, 2, or 3:

! ! ! ! !

Arvada Council for the Arts and Humanities Arvada Liquor Licensing Authority Board of Adjustment Human Services Advisory Committee Planning Commission

! ! ! ! !

Arvada Festivals Commission Arvada Urban Renewal Authority Gold Line Committee Parks Advisory Committee Transportation Committee

How many years have you lived in Arvada? __________________________ Have you previously served on any City of Arvada Board or Commission? Yes !

No !

If so, what Board or Commission and years served: __________________________________________________________________ Do you have any relatives employed by the City? Yes ! No !

Referred by: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ You may also attach a short resume to this application form, although it is not required. Citizens are limited to 12 years of service per Board or Committee. Applicants are considered for appointment regardless of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.

Note that most of the Boards and Commissions require you to be a resident of the City of Arvada.

For more information, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 720-898-7550 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Thank you for your interest in the community!

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Ralston Road Corridor Planning Effort Begins ave you ever driven down Ralston Road and thought that this corridor has potential to be something more? Or walked along the street and desired a safer environment that is more pedestrian friendly? If so, now is your chance to share those ideas.

The City of Arvada is beginning a planning process to work with the community to develop a long-term plan for retrofitting this unique and important corridor. The study area spans 1.5 miles between Olde Town Arvada and the Arvada Triangle, roughly bounded by Brooks Drive/Ralston Creek to the north and Grandview Avenue to the south.

This project will build off of previous planning studies that have been completed

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Vision Statement To provide an integrated land use and transportation plan for the Ralston Road Corridor Study Area that will enhance neighborhood connectivity, improve safety, encourage redevelopment and attract economic development, and provide a pleasant journey along a complete street through the heart of historic Arvada.

for Olde Town and the Triangle, but will focus on the connecting corridor and its relationship to adjacent neighborhoods.

City staff and their consultant, Charlier Associates, Inc., will be hosting a series of coffees in December to listen to the community goals, objectives, and desired outcomes. In early spring, public workshops will be held to define and evaluate scenarios for transportation improvements and redevelopment.

A vital component of the study is for the community to articulate a vision of the future Ralston Road Corridor. The project team invites active participation with the public to develop design changes that transform the corridor to meet the vision. The future Ralston Road Corridor Plan can be successful only if land use and transportation alternatives are packaged together in realistic scenarios. Citizens will have the opportunity to work with the project team to create an integrated set of scenarios that combine land use and transportation solutions that make sense together.

The City of Arvada is actively involved in community outreach and offers a number of communication tools.

Please mark your calendars for our first

public workshop, to be held on February 25, 2010. The project team will publish study information to the project website (http://arvada.org/transportation/ ralston-road-corridor-plan). We also invite you to sign up for e-mail or phone updates that will be broadcast via Notify-Me services (http://arvada.org/ residents/notify-me). For questions or additional project information, please contact Patty Lorence, City of Arvada Traffic and Transportation Division at 720-898-7740.

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010 These five pages of The Arvada Report are for and about the Arvada Police Department.

police department The Arvada Police Department’s section of The Arvada Report is published by the City of Arvada with content provided by the Arvada Police Department as a service to the citizens of Arvada.

Contact Numbers Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .911 Non-Emergency Reporting . . . . . . . . . .720-898-6900 Office of the Chief . . . . . . . . . .720-898-6650 Records Department . . . . . . . .720-898-6920 Investigations . . . . . . .720-898-6700 Media Relations . . . . . . . . . .720-898-6654 Arvada Police Department 8101 Ralston Road • Arvada CO 80002

720-898-6900 www.arvadapd.org

See Your Police Department in Action

A Message from the Chief of Police s 2009 comes to a close, I want to share some of the many highlights from the year related to the Arvada Police Department and safety in our community.

The Directed Police Intervention (DPI) strategy continues to have a positive effect on reducing crime. DPI brings members of the Arvada Police Department to locations in the City where crime is concentrated. One of the recent intervention areas was Olde Town Arvada. After six weeks of saturated police response, crime dropped nearly 20% in the area this past summer. In that time, people with warrants were arrested, while parks with overgrown brush were cleared to reduce hiding spaces for would-be criminals and to make patrol efforts more effective. Although the DPI emphasis has shifted to a different part of the City, the crime rate in Olde Town remains lower compared to statistics from a year ago.

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Nearly a half-dozen locations were part of the DPI effort during the year, and we plan to continue with this effort in 2010.

A crime impacting all areas of the City is that of car break-ins. This crime has seen a double-digit increase from 2008 statistics. While arrests have been made throughout the year, more needs to be done to lower these numbers. We need the help of citizens to take simple steps to reduce this crime of opportunity. The most effective ways to do this are to avoid leaving anything of value in your car, and to always lock your car doors.

This past summer marked the conclusion of a comprehensive criminal trial of a homicide occurring two years ago.

Ricky Regalado, a suspect in a homicide at the Castlegate Apartments in July of 2007, was convicted of first-degree murder in Jefferson County in 2009. He will join Thomas Garrison in a life sentence in prison for their roles in the death of Shawn Rodriguez. continued on page 13

Visit www.arvadapd.org to see members of your Police Department as they patrol the streets of the City.

You can click on videos on the web site as well as learn about the latest crime prevention information and upcoming events.

Cable subscribers can also watch Cop Talk on KATV Channel 8 to see the Arvada Police Department’s monthly television show.

Sunday: 10:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. shape Thursday: 1:30 p.m. t Cop Talk to survey abou a te. If you le in t p ar m p co Friday: 7:30 p.m. rg to take inutes to .o m d ly 4 n ap o s ad ke rv ta 20-898-665 Visit www.a m. The survey Medina at 7 Saturday: 7:30 a.m. of the progra e call Susan the future to you, pleas survey sent would like a rmation. for more info

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

It’s Not Too Late to Get Involved in Gift Giving Program s City of Arvada employees helped deliver gifts as part of last year’s Lighting up the Holidays program, they came across a single mom who was brought to tears by the generosity demonstrated by the presents given to her family. She was completely taken aback when a City employee presented her with a Safeway grocery store gift card for a turkey dinner with all of the trimmings that had been donated by an Arvada resident.

It’s not too late to help with the 2009 Lighting up the Holidays program. There is still a great need for this year’s gift giving event.

“We are in need of new toy donations as well as gift cards to places like

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Get Social with the Police www.twitter.com/arvadapolice

Search Arvada Police Department and ask to become a fan. o you Tweet on Twitter? Do you have a Facebook page?

If so, follow the Arvada Police Department on these two social media sites. By doing so, you’ll join hundreds of people who are getting the latest police news and information. Stay connected with your Police Department and receive real-time information about upcoming events and crime news.

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Target to purchase last minute gifts for the kids,” said Carrie Brady of the Arvada Police Department, who helps coordinate the program.

“We also provide parents with gift cards to grocery stores to help with food if resources allow.”

Please call 720-8987586 to take part in this important gift-giving event that brings toys to hundreds of kids living in Arvada. You can also drop off new toy donations to Arvada City Hall (8101 Ralston Road) during regular business

hours or at Downtown Toys and Games in Olde Town Arvada (5515 Olde Wadsworth) after 5:00 p.m. and on weekends until December 19.

Make the season bright for a child in need this Christmas.

Crooks Target iPods You love your iPod. You love the music. You love the video, and don’t forget those pictures! Guess what: so does a thief. With more and more people using MP3 Players, police are seeing an increase in these clever gadgets being stolen.

Here are a few tips to keep your music and your player safe.

• Keep your iPod hidden and never leave it unattended.

• Never store it in your car.

• Put a lock on your MP3 player. You can purchase a lock that will attach on your iPod so you can lock it on to anything you want such as a purse, a backpack, or even a treadmill at the gym.

Be sure to register your iPod on the Apple website or through the company of another brand. Create an Apple name and password if you don’t have one already. Also register your serial number which is found on the back of your iPod. Keep the serial number in a safe place so you can report the information to the police in the event your MP3 player is stolen.

“When an arrest is made in a theft or burglary crime and property is recovered, our detectives review police reports to match serial numbers from stolen property previously reported. By

keeping a solid list of serial numbers of electronics and other items of value in your home, crime victims have a better chance of having their stolen items returned,” said Commander Gary Hutchcraft who oversees the Criminal Investigations Bureau.

You have a lot of time and money invested in making your MP3 Player your very own. Be sure to take steps so your music, pictures, and video stay with you a long time.

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Car Thieves Warm Up to Cars Left Running f you leave your car running unattended as it warms in Arvada’s frosty mornings, you may become a victim of auto theft.

“Unfortunately, there are car thieves who prowl through the City for the chance to steal a car running unattended, whether it’s in front of a convenience store or in the driveway of a home in one of our neighborhoods,” said Commander Jim Keating of the Arvada Police Department.

With the arrival of cold weather and frost on the windshields, there is traditionally an increase in the number of cars stolen due to the fact residents leave their vehicles running unoccupied.

In an effort to reduce car thefts in Arvada, the City has adopted strict motor vehicle theft laws.

Two City of Arvada ordinances address the crime of auto thefts at the local level: Unauthorized Control over a Motor Vehicle and Motor Vehicle Trespass. Suspects charged with violating these ordinances will have to make bond

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or appear in court the next arraignment day. The municipal legal process is designed for swift justice with immediate jail sentencing upon conviction.

Another facet of the auto theft reduction program known as Operation Auto CRUSH addresses efforts to reduce “puffer” crimes in the City.

That law states that no person driving or in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended on property other than a street or highway and on public property without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key from the ignition and effectively setting the brake thereon.

Violation of this law can result in a municipal summons being issued to the owner of the car.

“Our officers have spent a significant amount of time working to reduce crimes of opportunity, and the community can greatly assist in decreasing these numbers as well by always locking car doors and never leaving vehicles running unattended,” said Commander Keating.

For those citizens who have keyless systems for their cars they can leave their vehicle running if they remove the key, lock the ignition, and set the brake of the car in compliance with the law.

By staying with your car while it warms you may avoid: • Paying an insurance deductible should your car be stolen.

• Receiving a summons for leaving your car unattended and running.

• Having your car used by a crook to commit other crimes such as burglaries.

Auto Theft Task Force Warns Public Against Leaving Valet Keys in Vehicles embers of the newly formed Jefferson County Regional Auto Theft Task Force (JCRATT) are warning the public about an increasing number of vehicles being stolen by using a valet key commonly found in the glove compartment of many vehicles.

Sergeant Dave Hoover of JCRATT said that many vehicles, especially high-end models, come from the factory with a valet key that is usually with the original ownership manual or paperwork commonly kept in the glove compartment.

“Thieves need only to break into the vehicle and find a valet key before being

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on their way with your car,” said Sergeant Hoover. “We are urging everyone to check inside their vehicles and remove the valet keys when not needed.”

Valet keys are commonly used to give a parking attendant the ability to operate your car and park it. The key allows the vehicle to be started and driven; however it will not access the trunk or glove compartment.

Sergeant Hoover added, “There are probably many vehicle owners that don’t even know their car came with a valet key. We suggest that everyone check their glove compartment for them and remove them if found prior to leaving your car unattended.”

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Senior Liaison Officer Makes Tremendous Impact in Community driver tucked this note under the windshield wiper of his automobile. “I’ve circled the block for 20 minutes. I’m late for an appointment, and if I don’t park here I’ll lose my job. Forgive us our trespasses.” When he came back he found a parking ticket and this note: “I’ve circled the block for 20 years, and if I don’t give you a ticket, I’ll lose my job. Lead us not into temptation.”

It may be a bit unorthodox, but a quick joke of the week is how Arvada Police Senior Liaison Officer Don Sikkema starts his community meetings with seniors.

Whether it’s a recreation center or a senior living community, Officer Sikkema meets with more than five dozen seniors (ages 60 and older) at four different sessions throughout the week. After the weekly funny, Officer Sikkema listens to their concerns, shares crime information, talks about the latest scams targeting seniors, and offers crime prevention tips.

“It’s important to get out and meet with people, to have face-toface contact with an officer in a situation where a crime has not occurred,” said Officer Sikkema, who began serving as the Senior Liaison Officer (SLO) in January 2009. “Some seniors are very nervous to talk to people on the phone.

The fact someone will spend time with them is imperative.”

Officer Sikkema’s goal is to meet with hundreds of seniors each week to share crime prevention information. He also tells each group to relay the crime prevention tips to another person outside of the meeting to maximize the effectiveness of the message.

The SLO is also responsible for investigating crimes against seniors.

The SLO files felony cases with the Jefferson County District Attorney’s Office on a regular basis.

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Officer Sikkema has also been proactive in his approach towards crime targeting the senior population.

Earlier this year, Officer Sikkema initiated a “sting” operation designed to catch a suspect known for stealing wallets from shopping carts. This suspect was targeting the senior population as they shopped in Arvada. Officer Sikkema coordinated with one of the patrol teams and had a female officer work in an undercover capacity as an elderly female. He enlisted the help from the Arvada Center costuming department, who provided an outfit, makeup, and other props to properly “age” the officer. While the sting did not catch the suspect that day, he was later caught and interviewed, confessing to several thefts from seniors in Arvada, Lakewood, and Denver.

In addition to meeting with seniors and working cases, Officer Sikkema oversees programs to better assist those in this age group.

On average, more than 500 cases involving senior victims occur each year in Arvada.

The Lockbox Program is a safe and secure way for police, fire and paramedics to help a senior in need in an emergency situation.

There is also the Solicitor Verification Program to protect seniors (and the community as a whole) from bogus businesses and other people intent on swindling citizens.

In the Colorado Life Trak Program, family members register their loved one to receive a wrist band which contains a transmitter tracking signal. If their loved one wanders off, a report is made to the Arvada Police Department and the system is activated so the missing person can be more easily located.

This important program is available for seniors with dementia issues and at-risk adults or children who are not mentally capable of knowing they are missing. More than one dozen Arvada residents are currently enrolled in the Life Trak Program.

The Arvada Police Department first introduced the Senior Liaison Officer program in 1995. For nearly 15 years, the officer serving in this assignment has worked to help seniors (ages 60 and older) navigate through situations where they are crime victims or in need of crime prevention information or referrals to other assistance agencies.

“The SLO serves as an important resource for seniors related to quality of life issues and problem solving in their everyday lives,” said Deputy Chief Lynn Johnson. “The SLO program has become part of the fabric of the Arvada Police Department and is a service of which we are very proud.”

The Arvada Report

Message from the Chief of Police continued from page 9 This was a complicated case filled with twists and turns that led investigators to different states in pursuit of one of the suspects. In the end, Arvada is a safer place because those responsible for this crime are in prison.

While this was a high-profile case, our police officers and detectives prepared for and testified at many other critical trials during the year.

I would be remiss if I did not discuss the efforts of the Police Department to ensure we continue to be good stewards of taxpayer money related to the budget. In 2009, we made a significant effort to analyze the budget to reduce spending where possible and to make business changes to streamline operations and ultimately save money. We will continue this process with each budget cycle.

I speak on behalf of the members of the Arvada Police Department in relaying that we take great pride in our commitment to public safety in Arvada. We work each and every day with the goal of ensuring the quality of life for those who work, play, and live in Arvada.

Please look for the Arvada Police Department’s complete annual report on www.arvadapd.org in the coming months.

Be safe.

Don Wick Chief of Police

December 2009/January 2010

Secret Shopper Scam on Police Radar A secret shopper scam is targeting those seeking employment on popular web sites such as Craigslist, according to police.

In a handful of cases reported to the Arvada Police Department, the victim(s) attempted to cash fraudulent checks written by representatives from bogus companies.

Here’s how the scam works: Once the victim is hired through the advertisement of becoming a secret shopper, he/she is sent two checks and asked to cash both. The victim is instructed to retain the cash from one check while wiring the remaining money to a person in another state under the guise of ‘rating the wire service business.’

“The problem is both checks are fraudulent to begin with, and the victim may be responsible for the hundreds of dollars cashed through their bank,” said Sergeant Steve Grisham with the Arvada Police Department.

There are steps you can take to protect yourself from these scams.

• Be careful of easy money offers

through a potential employer.

Be cautious of claims of a business offering you money in excess of a product’s value and especially those asking you to wire money from one place to another.

Something else to consider is that you may unwittingly offer your personal information to these fraudulent companies by sending your resume containing your name and address.

Tips to avoid jeopardizing your personal information include: validating the authenticity of a business through reputable sources such as the Better Business Bureau, never offer your social security number on a resume or other documents as you proceed through a hiring process, and follow the adage of ‘if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.’

Police say while this particular scam appears on Craigslist, there are many methods crooks use to swindle money from unsuspecting victims such as phone calls, bogus e-mails, and a variety of Internet sites.

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Thanks to Serenity Salon for Successful Fundraiser Thanks to the very talented and very dedicated staff at the Serenity Salon (13761 W. 85th Drive in Five Parks), more than $5,000 was raised during a Cut-A-Thon in support of the Ralston House.

Haircuts, facials, manicures, pedicures, and massages were the services offered during the four-hour fund-raising event held in November.

Each service ($25) plus tips and sponsorship of the staff at Serenity went directly to Ralston House.

“We are so thankful for the generosity of the team at the Serenity Salon.

They gave up their time on a Sunday, away from their families, to make the difference in the life of a child,” said Don Moseley, director of Ralston House.

Ralston House is a family-friendly site for Jefferson County law enforcement agencies and other health professionals to interview children who have been physically or sexually abused. Hundreds of children visit the site each year where they begin the healing process from these traumatic events.

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Additional Federal Funds Coming to Arvada he American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, signed into law on February 17, awarded one billion dollars in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to be distributed to local governments throughout the country for the purpose of stimulating the economy through measures that modernize the nation’s infrastructure, improve energy efficiency, and expand educational opportunities and access to health care.

The City of Arvada, one of approximately 1,200 jurisdictions that shared in the grant funding, received $136,700.

Jurisdictions must ensure that 70 percent of its CDBG grant be expended for activities that benefit low- and moderateincome persons. Grantees must also identify projects that could be funded within 120 days from the date the funds were made available. Arvada quickly moved to identify eligible uses for the funds that met important City needs. $20,500 was awarded to the Arvada Community Food Bank and to the Carin’ Clinic (a provider of health care services for children of low-income families).

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$116,200 was allocated for the removal of three deteriorated and hazardous pedestrian and bicycle path crossings along the Ralston Creek trail just west of Wadsworth Bypass. These aged, low-water crossings become blocked with debris and water, causing a flooding and safety hazard to surrounding structures and to trail users. In addition, the sidewalk connecting the crossings is of inadequate width and is settling. The crossings will be replaced with a new span crossing including grad-

Recycle Those Christmas Trees! ave landfill space while creating valuable mulch by recycling your Christmas trees at the end of the holiday season. Each year the City of Arvada reduces thousands of Christmas trees into mulch that is used to enhance soil throughout the community.

There are two drop-off sites for your trees. The City Park Maintenance Shops at 7800 W. 62nd Avenue will accept trees Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., through Friday, January 22, 2010. The Lutz Sports Complex at 5700 Oak Street (access the southwest parking lot off of Oak Street) does not have restricted days or times for drop-off and will

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accept trees through Sunday, January 24, 2010.

To ensure the safety of equipment operators, please make sure the tree is free of nails, wire, and all decorations.

Only Christmas trees are accepted— no garlands, wreaths, or yard waste.

Mulch will be available free of charge at all three locations; residents will be responsible for loading and hauling of mulch. This service is for Arvada residents only (no business or commercial disposal).

For more information on the Christmas tree mulching program or how to use mulch in your landscape, call the Parks division at 720-898-7410.

ing, berms, walkway improvements, replacement of landscaping, and restoration of the creek waterway. The project will provide for environmental benefits as well by preventing or decreasing unnatural blockages to stream flow and drainage dynamics that currently cause stream bank undercutting and damage to vegetation. It is also estimated 15 private sector construction jobs along with three design jobs will be created or retained.

Construction should commence before the end of 2009.

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Black Walnut Trees Dying Throughout Arvada lack Walnut trees have been under attack by the Walnut Twig Beetle in many communities along the Front Range. This Beetle, which is native to the Southwest, has apparently moved north.

The Walnut Twig Beetle is a very aggressive bark beetle that carries the Geosmithia Fungus. The Beetles and Fungus girdle the twigs and trunk of Black Walnut trees, restricting water and nutrient movement within the tree. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting foliage, usually starting at the top and progressing downward. To date, attempts by arborists to control the Beetle and disease have for the most part been unsuccessful. Trees generally die two-to-three years after symp-

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toms such as branch wilting or dieback are observed. City of Arvada forestry crews have removed over 40 dead Black Walnut trees on public property since 2006, including 14 very large Walnut trees at the Arvada Center.

Colorado State University professors Whitney Cranshaw and Ned Tisserat have been studying this beetle/fungus relationship, which they have named Thousand Cankers Disease. In Arvada, Thousand Cankers Disease has spread throughout the entire community with little hope of saving the remaining Black Walnut trees. There are, however, many communities in Colorado that have been isolated from Thousand Cankers Disease. It is extremely important that Thousand Cankers

Disease is not introduced to these communities by transporting infected wood to these areas. Recently cut Black Walnut trees showing symptoms of Thousand Cankers Disease can contain thousands of walnut twig beetles.

Diseased wood should be chipped, debarked, or isolated from healthy Black Walnut trees.

Professor Cranshaw believes that if Thousands Cankers Disease becomes established within the native range of the Black Walnut tree, the results could be catastrophic.

Prevention of the spread by preventing the movement of infected wood is critical to the protection and future survival of the Black Walnut in North America.

Disabled Residents Need to Update Dispatch System This is a reprint of an article that ran a year ago regarding special information for emergency dispatchers. If you would like for information to remain in the computer aided dispatch system, you must resubmit the information. The existing information will be purged from the system on December 31, 2009. hen an emergency occurs, a fast, appropriate response is critical to a successful outcome. The Arvada Police Department, Arvada Fire Protection District, and Pridemark Ambulance Service may be able to deal more effectively with an emergency when additional information about the victim is provided. The City collects information related to special assistance requirements for citizens in Arvada. Information is sent to dispatchers for these three agencies and entered into the computer dispatch system; it is made available to response teams in case of an emergency. If you have a disability that requires special assistance or equipment, please consider filling out the attached form and sending it to: City of Arvada, attn: Vicky Reier, 8101 Ralston Road, Arvada, CO 80002. You may also send in your form via email. Receive a form electronically by e-mailing vicky-r@arvada.org. Information is confidential. In order to keep the information current, it will only be kept on file for one calendar year.

Each December 31 it will be purged from the computer system.

Next year, if you wish to have the information listed in the computer aided dispatch system, you will need to resubmit the form. This notice will be reproduced each year to remind you of this opportunity.

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Arvada Emergency Services: Special Assistance Form NAME: ____________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ PHONE: ____________________________________________________________ TTY/TDD: __________________________________________________________ NATURE OF DISABILITY (please check all that apply):

! hearing impaired

! vision impaired

! mobility impaired

! other (please describe) ____________________________________________ List Assistive Equipment (i.e., wheelchair, oxygen, assistance dog): ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Any additional information necessary for emergency services: ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ This information will be requested annually by the City of Arvada. Please notify us if you move from this address by calling 720-898-7500, or 720-898-7869 TDD. The City of Arvada is committed to supporting accessibility in the community. If you have a concern related to accessibility, or would like more information, please call Vicky Reier at 720-898-7509.

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010 These four pages of The Arvada Report are for and about the Arvada Fire Protection District.

fire protection district Arvada Fire Protection District The Arvada Fire Protection District’s section of The Arvada Report is published by the City of Arvada with content provided by the Arvada Fire Protection District as a service to the citizens of Arvada. The City of Arvada is not responsible for

Chief’s Letter FIRE CHIEF JON GREER t is once again time to finalize our annual budget. The Board will approve the budget in December which will designate operating capital for 2010.

Arriving at this final budget has not been easy. District property tax income in 2009, which is 92% of our annual income, increased less than 1% over 2008. In 2010 our property tax will decrease 1.02%. In addition, we are forecasting a decrease of

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$100,000 in interest income and about $100,000 in license fees. This equates to a reduction in our overall income from these three items of $364,000 or about a 2% overall reduction in income. Early on everything pointed to a reduction of about 5-6%.

As with any entity, the most significant expense in the budget is personnel, which equals 80% of our total expenditures. continued on page 19

the accuracy of the information contained in this section of The Arvada Report.

Board of Directors James H. (Jim) Snyder President Douglas J. (Doug) Schneider Vice President Debra S. (Debi) Luft Treasurer Gary Michael (Mike) Kerr Secretary Edward G. (Ted) Terranova Assistant Secretary

Arvada Fire Protection District 7903 Allison Way • Arvada, CO 80005

303-424-3012 www.arvadafire.com 16

Pink Heals Tour he Arvada Fire Protection District hosted the Pink Heals Tour on Tuesday, September 15 at the Home Depot store, W. 52nd Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.

The “Guardians of the Ribbon” are a group of firefighters, police officers, and leaders in the community whose purpose is to raise awareness and money for the fight against cancer for women nationwide.

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North Metro Fire and Rescue hosted the tour later in the day at Flatiron Crossing in Broomfield.

“While firefighters are often thought of as community heroes, this event gives us the opportunity to show our strength and support for the people in our community who inspire us,” said Wendy Forbes of North Metro Fire Rescue. “In our minds, these men and women are the real heroes-people fighting and surviving the battle against cancer in its various forms.”

Attendees of the Pink Heals Tour are welcomed to tour special pink fire trucks and have their picture taken.

Women who have been affected by cancer are encouraged to sign their name on one of the trucks. !

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Winter Safety for Children hether winter brings severe storms, light dustings of snow, or just cold temperatures, here are some valuable tips on how to keep your children safe and warm.

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What to Wear Dress infants and children warmly for outdoor activities in several thin layers to keep them dry and warm. The rule of thumb for older babies and young children is to dress them in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions.

Blankets, quilts, pillows, sheepskins, and other loose bedding may contribute to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and should be kept out of an infant’s sleeping environment. Sleep clothing such as one-piece sleepers is preferred. If a blanket must be used to keep a sleeping infant warm, it should be tucked in around the crib mattress, reaching only as far as your baby’s chest, so the infant’s face is less likely to become covered by bedding.

Hypothermia and Frostbite Set reasonable time limits on outdoor play to prevent frostbite. Have children come inside periodically to warm up.

Hypothermia develops when a child’s temperature falls below normal due to exposure to cold. It often happens when a youngster is playing outdoors in extremely cold weather without wearing proper clothing, or when clothes get wet. The child may shiver and become lethargic and clumsy. His speech may become slurred and his body temperature will decline. If you suspect your child is hypothermic, call 911 at once. Until help

arrives, take the child indoors, remove any wet clothing, and wrap him in blankets or warm clothes.

Frostbite happens when the skin and outer tissues become frozen. This condition tends to happen on extremities like the fingers, toes, ears, and nose. They may become pale, gray, and blistered. At the same time, the child may complain that her skin burns or has become numb.

If frostbite occurs, bring the child indoors and place the frostbitten parts of her body in warm (not hot) water. 104° Fahrenheit (about the temperature of most hot tubs) is recommended. Warm washcloths may be applied to frostbitten nose, ears, and lips. DO NOT rub the frozen areas. After a few minutes, dry and cover her with clothing or blankets. Give her something warm to drink. If the numbness continues for more than a few minutes, call your doctor.

Ice Skating Allow children to skate only on rink surfaces—never on lakes or ponds.

Advise your child to skate in the same direction as the crowd, avoid darting across the ice, never skate alone, and do not chew gum or eat candy while skating.

Consider having your child wear a helmet while ice skating.

Sledding Supervise children while sledding and keep them away from motor vehicles.

Avoid sledding in crowded areas and keep young children separated from older children. Sledding feet first or sitting up, instead of lying down head-first, may prevent head injuries. Consider having your child wear a helmet while sledding. Use steerable sleds, which are structurally sound and free of sharp edges and splinters, with a well lubricated steering mechanism, not snow disks or inner tubes.

Sled slopes should be free of obstructions like trees or fences, be covered in snow not ice, not be too steep, and end with a flat runoff.

Sun Protection The sun’s rays can still cause sunburn in the winter, especially when they reflect off snow. Make sure to cover exposed skin with sunscreen.

Fire Protection Remember to buy and install smoke alarms on every floor of your home, test smoke alarms monthly, and practice fire drills with your children American Academy of Pediatrics http://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/ decwintertips.cfm !

Family Safety Day a Hit

rvada Fire’s Family Safety Day was a hit for everyone involved. This year’s event was held September 19 at the Arvada Volunteer Firefighter Park and Retired Fire Station #7, located near the intersection of W. 84th Avenue and Garrison Street.

The focus of the day was home fire safety. A demonstration was put on by Arvada Fire about the amount of fire protection that can be provided by a single fire sprinkler. You can see the dramatic video at www.arvadafire.com.

Over 300 people enjoyed free hot dogs, snow cones, face painting, and more. Bicycle safety was demonstrated through an obstacle course and we had visits from our mascot Tower and Flight for Life.

Mark your calendars for next year’s Family Safety Day, scheduled for June 26 at the same location. !

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Do Home Fire Sprinklers Work? n 2007, roughly 84% of all deaths that were the result of fires in homes occurred where no residential sprinkler was in place. If you have a fire in your home, your risk of dying decreases by about 80% if you have a residential sprinkler system in place.

These are some staggering numbers.

According to a report that was recently published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an ordinance that would require residential fire sprinklers in all new home construction does show huge benefits. In 1992,

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Prince George’s County in Maryland initiated a single-family dwelling fire sprinkler ordinance. In the 15 years from 1992 – 2007, there has been a significant impact on life-safety and reduction of property damage.

During the 15-year period, there were 13,494 house fires with 101 deaths and 328 injuries in homes that were not protected with fire sprinklers.

There were ZERO deaths in homes that were protected by fire sprinklers. In addition to that, the average property damage dollar loss in unsprinklered

homes was ten times that of a sprinklered home.

There are several myths about fire sprinklers that film and television producers have exploited to add visuals to their shows. The first myth is that if one sprinkler activates, they all activate. This is false. Sprinklers are individually activated by heat. The temperature at that sprinkler head must reach over 165 degrees. With that said, it is also difficult to set off a sprinkler with just a cigarette lighter. continued on page 19

The image above is a fire demonstration showing two rooms: one with no sprinkler and one with a sprinkler. The fire in the room on the right was extinguished by the sprinkler immediately after the picture was taken. The image to the far right shows the room with a sprinkler, approximately three minutes later, just before fire crews attacked the fire.

Free Carbon Monoxide Alarms he Arvada Fire Protection District has received a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to teach a home safety course. This course will be offered twice a month and will provide our residents with the best practices to stay safe in your homes. After attending the course, a fire crew will contact each household to install, free of charge, a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm complete with a ten-year lithium battery, as well as a pair of stove top fire extinguishers.

The CO alarm will provide each home with protection from the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning and will

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ensure that the home will meet the requirements that were set into law in July of 2009 with the passage of the Lofgren and Johnson Families Carbon Monoxide Safety Act. The stove top fire extinguishers will attach above your stove and will activate if a fire breaks out on your stove top to extinguish the fire before it has a chance to spread.

The one-hour class will be held at AFPD Headquarters, 7903 Allison Way. Call 303-424-3012 to register. The class schedule for the next three months is listed to the right.

December 17, 7:00 p.m.

December 19, 9:00 a.m.

January 17, 9:00 a.m.

January 18, 7:00 p.m.

February 18, 7:00 p.m.

February 20, 9:00 a.m. !

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Chief’s Letter Are You Prepared for an Emergency? continued from page 9

Would you or your family members know what to do in case of an emergency?

• Would you have the proper provisions? Do you have an evacuation plan?

• What is a pandemic? What if there is a terrorist attack?

Once an emergency strikes, it is too late to plan! Being prepared can give you peace of mind.

The Arvada Fire Protection District offers the free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) course which will answer all of the above questions for you and more.

CERT training will prepare you for what to do in case of a fire, terrorist attack, snow storms that knock out utilities, etc. So it you want the peace of mind of knowing what to do in case of an emergency visit www.arvadafire.com, or e-mail CERT@arvadafire.com to sign up.

The AFPD recently recently graduated its first official CERT class. !

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Fire Sprinklers continued from page 9 A second myth is that fire sprinklers will activate if you burn popcorn in the microwave. This is also false. As previously mentioned, sprinklers are activated by heat and not smoke.

A third myth is that the water damage caused by the sprinkler after the fire starts will be worse than the fire damage. This also is false. If there are no sprinklers in place, the fire will double in size every 30 seconds.

By the time someone calls 9-1-1 and there is a response by the fire department, the damage to the home may be extensive.

Everything in the home will have smoke damage if it is not destroyed by the fire itself.

Then you add the amount of water that the fire department will need to use to put out this large fire and the damage is much more extensive.

For more information, visit www.firesprinklerinitiative.org. !

Our firefighters and administrative personnel will not receive a raise in 2010.

We also reduced the health insurance benefits to keep the cost to the District the same as in 2009. I want to take this opportunity to thank our employees, especially the Local Firefighters Union, which as always was great to work with and kept the best interest of our citizens and the Fire District in mind. In negotiating the 2010 union contract, the issue of a raise was not even presented, as they understand the District’s overall financial situation.

In 2010 we will be placing about $300,000 in reserves to help balance our 2012 budget. We are expecting the 2011 numbers to be similar to 2010. This means that for the years of 2009, 2010, and 2011, our income will actually be about 2% lower than 2008.

As this occurs, we have had a significant increase in the demand for our services and the cost of conducting business continues to rise.

Because of the property assessment process, we are expecting a significant reduction in the 2012 budget from today’s numbers—how significant, we have yet to learn. The price for commercial property is down about 20% from last year, and we all know what has happened to the value of residential property since June of 2008.

Why June of 2008? That is when the assessment of property was completed for 2010. The assessment will occur in June 2010 for 2012. We are very concerned about 2012 and beyond unless a dramatic turnaround occurs in the real estate market by June of 2010. There are no assessments for the odd years, so those budgets increase only by the value of new construction, which has been very limited.

What this means is that through 2013 we expect to be operating on less income than we had in 2008.

I know I sound like an alarmist and you are looking to see if the sky is falling.

The reality is that the Fire District will be operating on very limited income for the next four years and even then it will be very difficult to ever fully recover.

Our revenue generating possibilities are very limited. The District does not have the ability to increase the fees that we charge. We are a Fire Department. We cannot add new charges for license plate fees or raise the rates for water and sewer to balance the budget. You can see why we are concerned. We are constantly pursuing more cost-effective alternatives and evaluating everything that we do to ensure that those items on which we spend your money further our goal of providing the services that you expect. As we move through these next few years, I will provide updates on the financial condition of the Fire District on a regular basis to keep you informed. Thanks again for allowing us to be your Fire Department. !

Save a Life: Learn CPR The Arvada Fire Protection District will hold a CPR certification class on Saturday, January 9, from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The class will be held at the Arvada Fire Training Center, 6651 Indiana Street.

Your two-year certification will be through the American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI). Both beginners and renewals take the same class. There will be a practical test given at the end of the class.

All classes will be limited to 20 students and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. The cost for the course is $30. To sign up or for more information, call 303-424-3012. !

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

2010 Budget Adopted n October 19, the Arvada City Council approved the City’s budget for 2010. A portion of City Manager Craig Kocian’s budget transmittal letter follows.

“My recommended budget for 2010 is dramatically different from any other budget that I have submitted in my 12 years as Arvada City Manager.

Last August, in submitting the recommended two year 2009 – 2010 budget, I stated that “we appear to be standing at the precipice of volatile economic times and an uncertain future, both locally and nationally.” At that time, the stock market had not yet suffered the meltdown that occurred in late 2008. When you approved the 2009 – 2010 budget in October of 2008, we had a clearer picture of the economic crisis and you adopted the budget with the understanding that circumstances in 2009 might force us to further reduce expenditures. I also assured you that the City had adequate reserves to maintain services and infrastructure during the two years of that recommended budget.

Today, we know that the revenues which we estimated for 2009 have not come to pass. We know that sales tax revenues are down by approximately 4.5%.

It is during challenging times that the true mettle of an organization is shown, and I am proud to say that this organization has truly stepped up to the plate. Through the tremendous efforts of City staff, you are receiving a balanced operating and capital budget for 2010 which represents a significant shift in the way we do business as a municipal corporation, as well as how we utilize our resources.

Through a constant monitoring of sales tax receipts we acknowledged early on that we would not meet our estimated revenues for 2009.

Therefore, beginning in February, departments began voluntarily reducing expenditures. A selective hiring freeze was put into place. Over the next few months, departments went through an exercise of “scrubbing” their line items to make cuts wherever possible. The budget team began meeting regularly and conducted an indepth analysis of internal service funds (computer replacement, vehicle maintenance and replacement, building maintenance, and insurance). All of these steps have resulted in to-date and committed year end reductions in the 2009 budget of $1.1 million dollars.

Next, departments were requested to submit revised 2010 budgets that presented 2%, 4%, and 5% cuts. Departments were also encouraged to investigate changes in business practices that would result in overall savings to the organization. To that end, the recommended 2010 budget displays a dramatic shift in how we do business, reflected by the elimination of 16.5 positions that are the result of departments giving serious thought to what is truly required to continue to provide quality services to the community as well as to the organization.

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The recommended 2010 budget also displays what is intended to be a short-term shift in how we utilize our reserves. Arvada’s history of conservative budgeting and careful forecasting through the five-year modeling process has served us extremely well and has left us in the enviable position of having over $29 million in total cash reserves at the beginning of 2009. We are now estimating – very conservatively – that the General Fund will have cash reserves at the beginning of 2010 of $24,240,884. Of this total $5,146,599 must be set aside to meet our 2010 operating reserves of 8 percent. The 8 percent is comprised of 5 percent required for TABOR and 3 percent as the additional set aside per City Council policy. This leaves a conservative balance of $16,624,002 an unreserved cash in the General Fund.

However, when forecasting expenditures versus revenues as conservatively as is our practice, through the five-year model, at the end of that model given increasing expenditures in operating and maintenance costs, salaries and benefits, etc., our reserves are typically consumed at the end of that model. You also know that in years past, while our budget forecasting has shown that we spend down reserves at the end of five years, we never actually have. We have benefited from unbudgeted economic growth, new retail, cost savings in areas such as unfilled positions, etc., leaving us not only with a healthy reserve but with “one time” funds that we have been able to utilize towards prioritized capital projects. What is so significantly different about the budget I recommend to you today is that the City of Arvada will, in fact, spend down our reserves by no more than $2.7 million dollars in 2009 and an estimated $2.4 million in 2010. The $2.4 million in 2010 does assume that we will also dedicate an additional $900,000 of our dollars to capital improvements.

Position Eliminations A total of 16.5 positions are being eliminated from the City’s 2010 budget, including the Education Manager at the Arvada Center, a Streets Equipment Operator, five Records Specialists and one Records Supervisor in the Police Department, a Landscape Architect, a Drafting Technician, and an Administrative Specialist. Five of the 16.5 positions were not filled. The decisions to eliminate these positions were business related as opposed to being compelled by economic circumstances; in other words, they are eliminations which should have been made regardless of the City’s revenue situation. For example, the six records positions in the Police Department were eliminated due to changing technology. The Police Department has been analyzing changes in the way officer reports are transcribed for a number of years, and has determined that outsourcing transcription to a private firm will save significant dollars to the general fund. In addition, voice transcription software is rapidly improving.

Operating and Maintenance Changes Departments worked hard to eliminate other major costs to the organization, including the following reductions: • No (0%) Salary Rate adjustment for 2010 for all employees. Eligible employees will continue to get step increases.

• Overtime costs were reduced by $48,000.

• Travel and training was reduced by $144,000.

• Over $200,000 in supplies and clothing expenses were eliminated.

• Small equipment purchases were reduced by $185,000.

Employees understand that the reductions offered this year were to be sustainable; this means that these reductions are permanent.

Because of this operating condition, departments reduced very little in repair, maintenance materials, and other areas where the reduction might be classified as a “deferral” and not a long term reduction.

It is a new way of doing things; there will be less money for any unknown challenge or special request, but we will be able to maintain the current overall services the citizens of the City of Arvada has come to expect.

This leads us to the capital or infrastructure needs of the City. This Budget recommends that above our debt service needs of $4.498 million an additional $3.5 million be dedicated for general capital needs. This is above our Charter requirement of 60% of one cent of sales tax – or $7 million. Funded projects will include: • General Streets Maintenance • General Parks Capital Maintenance • Ralston Road Corridor Study • Traffic Signal and Intersection Safety Improvements • Irrigation Ditch Work • Median Improvements • Beeman and Broad Lake Parks This budget continues a financial management plan which will ensure fiscal stability for our organization by thoroughly analyzing present trends and future issues, and extrapolating the results over the next five years. This budget enables the municipal corporation to provide reasonable and appropriate services to our residents, businesses, and visitors, and remain fiscally stable in the future. It is our goal to ensure not only fiscal stability, but citizen satisfaction with our continued operations with the financial resources available.

Respectfully submitted, Craig G. Kocian City Manager” The 2010 City of Arvada budget may be viewed in its entirety at www.arvada.org.

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Celebrate in Arvada in 2010 with the Arvada Festivals Commission The Arvada Festivals Commission is an organization of 20 Council-appointed Arvada volunteers who plan and produce seven diverse family-oriented events. Volunteers to help plan and produce these events are always welcomed and appreciated. Come join the fun!

Annual Chocolate Affair

Delightful chocolate experience with award-winning chocolate therapist, chocolate sampling, chocolate treasure hunt, and chocolate cookie contest. Presented with Historic Olde Town Arvada Association. Benefits a non-profit organization. See more information on page 25.

February 6 in Olde Town Arvada

Arvada Kite Festival A sky filled with fantastic flying creatures celebrates National Kite Month with flying contests, kids’ activities, Children’s musical entertainment, food, and vendors.

Presented with Foothills Kite Club.

April 10 at Robby Ferrufino Park

Arvada Trails Day

High Tea for Seniors Festivities feature wildlife displays, environmental exhibits, hikes, and bike rides. Presented with Majestic View Nature Center, Arvada Park Advisory Committee, and Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge.

June 5 at Majestic View Nature Center and Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge

This celebration for citizens 90+ years young includes music, entertainment, gifts, and stories of joyfully lived lives.

March 13 at the Egg Shell Restaurant For more information call 720-898-7400 or log on to www.arvadafestivals.com.

Independence Day Celebration Celebrate with family fun, music, kids’ activities, entertainment, and FIREWORKS. Presented with Apex Annual Park andColorado RecreationCowboy District 19th and KOOL 105.

Poetry Gathering July 4 at the Stenger Lutz Sports This four-day roundup features some of Complex

the world’s best-rhyming yarn-spinners, sagebrush side-ticklers, yodelers, singers, Festival of Scarecrows and western musiScarecrow concians.

Our January test, pumpkin 2008 pay patch,event kids’will costribute to Buck tume parade, hay Ramsey, who prowagon rides, and a giant pumpkin foundly influenced contest areand feathe writing tured at Boo music of this contempoFest presented rary Western perwith Historic Olde formers. Buck’s Town Arvada Association. Benefits a widow, Bette, will be in attendance as we non-profit organization. honor his life, October 9 inoutstanding Olde Townachievements, Arvada and contributions to the art of cowboy poetry. program also feature WinesThefor the will Holidays over 30 poets and Wine Tasting musicians with the A presentation of current line-up Front Range winerincluding Dorissamies with food Daley, Pyle, plings Chuck and silent auction.

Benefits a Gary McMahan, non-profit organizaCowboy Celtic, Jerry tion.

Brooks, Jill Jones, November at The Liz Masterson, Egg Shell Restaurant (checkand Georgie Sicking, Milton Taylor, Andy Wilkinson. www.arvadafestivals.com for January 10 January 13, 2008 dates)

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The Arvada Report

720-898-7405 www.arvada.org/nature 7030 Garrison Street Majestic View Nature Center, providing environmental education and awareness of our natural resources, is located at 7030 Garrison Street. Through May 1, the Center is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., as well as during programs and special activities. Below are upcoming classes and activities. Pre-registration is required; to make reservations, call 720-898-7405.

Funding For School Field Trip Programs The Nature Center received a Tier III grant award for the fifth year from the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District. This award assists in funding the Elementary Exploration Program, a K-6th grade science curriculum in which the students learn environmental education concepts throughout the 80-acre Park and Nature Center facility. Examples of interactive stations that complement Jeffco Science standards include the 36th Grade topics; Incredible Insects, Mammals Study, Wetland Experience, Prairie/Nature Trail and Exhibits.

Elementary Exploration also includes Pre-K-2nd grade topics; Meet a Mammal, Amphibians & Reptiles, Birds, Fish, Butterflies, My Five Senses, How do Plants Grow?

Elementary Exploration is offered weekdays in the mornings and can accommodate up to 65 students per program. The cost is $3.75 per student.

Call us for further information and to schedule a field trip for your group.

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December 2009/January 2010

Nature Adventures: An Interactive Experience

Explore the through Art

Animal

Kingdom

Celebrate the natural wonders of the season with your

Artist David Sullivan teaches about different creatures

child through short hikes, hands-on activities, crafts,

and helps you portray them artistically. Draw, paint,

and books. Dress for the weather as we will spend a

sculpt, and use other fun are techniques to examine

portion of each class outside. Taught by Dean Bernard,

and learn about the many living creatures that make

Nature Center Specialist, and his dog Moxie. Ages 4 –

up the Animal Kingdom. Bring your healthy after-

6 and parents.

school snack each time.

•

December 19, 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. No fee.

•

•

January 16, 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. No fee.

Wednesdays, January 13 – March 17. 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. $90 for the ten week session.

Animal Art and Awesome Activities Learn about, and then use your artistic skills to discover amazing creatures and make a great project to take home. Ages 6 – 10.

•

December 12, Gyotaku (Japanese fish printing).

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. $10

•

January 10, Creatures of the Extreme. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. $10

Mad Science Jeffco School Break Day Camps at Majestic View Mad Science strives to spark the imagination and curiosity of children, providing them with fun, handson, exciting activities that instill an understanding of science and nature. Call Mad Science directly to register at 303 403-0432 or visit their website at www.madscience.tv. Ages 6 – 12.

• •

Wild Costa Rica Not many adventurers get to see a Quetzal, the spectacular, rare classic bird of Costa Rica. See digital images of the Quetzal high in the mountains in the Cloud Forest. Active volcanoes, sloths, monkeys, water birds, and jungle birds make up this awe-inspiring rainforest. Presented by Bob Barber, professional outdoor photographer and member of the Arvada

December 21 – 23: Funky Forensics, 9:00 a.m. –

Park Advisory Committee. Ages 10 - adult.

5:00 p.m., $169.

•

December 28 – 30: Earth Awareness, 9:00 a.m. –

Jr. Duck Stamp Program

5:00 p.m., $169.

K-12 Students, call us to help you create and submit

January 21, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. $3.

your artwork as you participate in U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s educational program and contest on waterfowl and wetland conservation..

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Arvadans Now Have Access to Prescription Drug Discount Program n today’s economic climate, the high cost of some prescription drugs can be a heavy burden, particularly to people without health insurance or whose health insurance does not cover prescription drugs.

Now, the City of Arvada, in partnership with the National League of Cities and CVS Caremark, is making available a Prescription Drug Discount Program that can offer average savings of 20% off the retail price of prescription drugs. The Program is offered at almost all chain pharmacies, as well as some independent pharmacies, throughout the United States.

There is no cost to sign up for the Prescription Drug Discount Program.

Cards are currently available at Arvada City Hall, the Arvada Community Food Bank (8555 W. 57th Avenue), the Apex Center (13150 W 72nd Avenue), and other locations. Cards may also be printed off of the program website at http://www2.caremark.com/nlc/.

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Program assistance is available at the website or by calling toll-free 1-888620-1749.

The cards may be used by all Arvada residents. There are no restrictions based on the resident’s age, income level, or existing health coverage. The NLC card can be used when purchasing prescription drugs at participating pharmacies around Arvada, as well as at more than 59,000 participating retail pharmacies across the country.

The program is easy to use.

Residents simply need to show their card when purchasing medication at one of the many participating pharmacies. There is no enrollment form required to get a card, no membership fee of any kind and City residents and their family members can use the card any time their prescriptions are not covered by insurance.

The discount card program is administered by CVS Caremark.

Fine Art Market, ACES Sale Returns to the Arvada Center he popular Fine Art Market returns for the 23rd year to the Arvada Center’s main gallery, featuring original works—in a wide range of media, size, and price—by more than 100 prominent artists from throughout Colorado and the Western U.S. The Arvada Center Eduction Studios (ACES) sale will be held concurrently in the upper and theater lobby galleries. Instructors and students from the Center’s outstanding studio art classes offer an extensive selection of ceramics, sculpture, drawings, paintings, and prints at irresistible prices!

Whether you seek distinctive hand-fashioned gifts for those special people on your holiday shopping list or something you will keep and cherish, the Fine Art Market and ACES Sale offer truly extraordinary somethings.

Opening Reception: December 11, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

December 12 – 20 • Monday – Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

• Sundays, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010 These two pages of The Arvada Report are for and about Historic Olde Town Arvada (HOTA).

There’s Lots Going On In

Olde Town Arvada!

Historic Olde Town Arvada The Historic Olde Town Arvada’s section of The Arvada Report is published by the City of Arvada with content provided

by Historic Olde Town Arvada as a service to the citizens of Arvada. The City of Arvada is not responsible for the accuracy of information contained in this section of The Arvada Report.

Historic Olde Town Arvada 7307 Grandview Avenue • Arvada, CO 80002

303-420-6100 www.historicarvada.org

A Perfect Holiday Gift: Purchase a Brick in Olde Town Square urchasing a brick in Olde Town Square is a holiday gift that is a part of history. Make your mark on Olde Town with a personalized memorial brick to be permanently installed on the sidewalk in Olde Town Square. Not only will you be a part of history, but your purchase will contribute to revitalizing our historic downtown and building its future.

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Neighborhood News owntown Arvada has undergone significant change over the past decade. Once known as a dilapidated antique row, our historic buildings are now home to award-winning restaurants, contemporary businesses, urban residents, and well-respected places of worship. Numerous residential, retail and office projects have come on line to create an increasingly vibrant urban environment thanks to productive public and private partnerships led by City of Arvada, AURA, AEDA, and Historic Olde Town Arvada (HOTA). A key transportation project, the Gold Line, an electric commuter rail line from Denver Union Station to the heart of Olde Town is scheduled to reach Arvada in 2016.

To take advantage of this momentum, the HOTA organization has recently launched an outreach campaign called Voices & Visions to gain input from downtown stakeholders that will be used to create and implement a strategic plan

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for downtown Arvada. A community survey and a series of focus groups are being organized to gain valuable insight from business and property owners, residents, and community groups as to what makes downtown Arvada remarkable.

Information gathered will be assessed and translated into areas of priority to reach downtown Arvada’s full potential.

HOTA is also charging forward with the release of the organization’s new branding campaign, set for the first quarter of 2010. In updating its name, logo, color scheme, marketing materials, website, and expanding downtown Arvada boundaries, pertinent information will be available in an even more comprehensive, user-friendly format for business and property owners, investors, residents and community groups. For further information, please contact HOTA staff at 303-420-6100.

Meet Kaycee Edwards he Historic Olde Town Arvada association has announced its newest staff member. Kaycee Edwards has joined the team as Marketing Coordinator.

Edwards has been brought on board to handle promotion and marketing of the downtown business district. She will work in close collaboration with the Main Street marketing committee volunteers, local business owners, and staff, including Executive Director Jason

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Dennison. “Kaycee will quickly become an integral member of our team,” says Dennison. “With Kaycee’s help, we plan to launch a new branding campaign and implement a marketing strategy by creating a downtown Arvada marketing niche.” Edwards obtained her MBA from the University of New Mexico and has previously held marketing positions with Sandi National Laboratories. She and her husband recently relocated to Denver from Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The Arvada Report

Special Events

December 2009/January 2010

Featured Business

Holiday Shopping Carriage Ride Included

5515 Olde Wadsworth Blvd.

Arvada, CO 80002 303-425-1111 www.downtowntoysandgames.com

We invite you to experience the holiday charm only historic downtown Arvada can offer this season with family and friends. Take a horse drawn carriage ride (details below), and fulfill your holiday shopping needs in our quaint boutiques and locally owned businesses. We encourage Arvada residents to be smart this holiday season and shop local for their holiday needs, as your sales tax dollars are reinvested in your community to provide invaluable services. Invite your friends and family along and experience Arvada’s downtown business district.

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides December 11 and 18, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

W.57th Avenue and Olde Wadsworth in Olde Town Square/$10 per carriage ride.

ealizing the need for a contemporary toy store to serve the community of Arvada, Downtown Toys and Games came to be. A family owned business, Downtown Toys and Games opened its doors in November, 2008. Bob and Ra’Chelle Fifer are the owners, and together with their three boys Kyle, 12 and identical twins Derrick and Chad age 2, they help to make up a fifth generation

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of Arvada residency. The store prides itself first and foremost on family and family values, and they pride themselves on providing customers with high quality customer service. If you can’t find what you need, they will find it for you and special order it right to your front door.

The store is open seven days a week: Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m.

– 9:00 p.m, Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

It’s Chocolate Time in Olde Town CHOCOLATE IS CHEAPER THAN THERAPY, AND YOU DON’T NEED AN APPOINTMENT. ring your friends and family for a day of delicious chocolate therapy at the 10th annual Chocolate Affair on Saturday, February 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., presented by the Arvada Festivals Commission and Historic Olde Town Arvada.

Sample chocolate for a good cause at the Taste of Chocolate featuring chocolatiers, bakers, and restaurants.

Entrance fee is $1 per person or $5 for six people. Tickets can be purchased at the door for delicious taste treats of chocolate-based food and drink. Over 20 chocolatiers will share samples of their products. The proceeds benefit Ralston House (see page 13 for more information about this organization).

Visit over 20 Olde Town stores to collect clues to compete in the Chocolate Treasure Hunt. Teams or

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individuals that gather all of the clues qualify for prize drawings for large chocolate-enriched baskets of goodies.

The competition is free, and many stores offer bites of chocolate to sustain you in the search.

Colorado’s Chocolate Therapist and award-winning author, Julie Pech, explains the multiple health benefits of chocolate in three lively, free presentations about how chocolate is good for you!

Catch a free carriage ride and enjoy a romantic ride around the charming Olde Town historic district.

Enter your best chocolate cookies or decorated chocolate cookies in the Creative Chocolate Cookie Contest.

Cookie contestants may drop off cookie samples (six cookies) at the Arvada Library Community Room between

11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Compete for one of six prizes to be awarded.

To entertain little chocolate lovers, the Arvada Library will host storytelling throughout the festival in the children’s area. Balloon tying and face painting will be offered free to children of all ages.

Usher in the month of love by declaring your love on a giant Lamp Post Heart! Purchase a personalized heart for $25 from HOTA (call 303420-6100). Hearts will hang from lampposts on Olde Wadsworth Boulevard and Grandview Avenue.

For more information, to buy tickets to the Taste of Chocolate, or to purchase Lamp Post Hearts, call Historic Olde Town Arvada at 303-420-6100.

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The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

Keep Your Water Pipes From Freezing t’s that time of year again! Follow these tips to prevent frozen water pipes, as well as information about how to thaw the pipes if they do freeze.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem Water expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the ‘strength’ of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to rupture and break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior

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walls with little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.

Preventing Frozen Pipes You can prevent freezing of water supply lines and pipes by following these recommendations: • Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer’s or installer’s directions.

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Remove, drain, and carefully store all hoses that are used outdoors.

• Both hot and cold water pipes in unheated areas should be insulated. A hot water supply line can freeze just as easily as a cold water supply.

• Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a ‘pipe sleeve’ or installing UL-listed ‘heat tape,’ ‘heat cable,’ or similar materials on exposed or susceptible to freezing water pipes.

During Very Cold Weather, Take Preventive Action • Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.

• When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by pipes that are susceptible to freezing. Running water through the pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent pipes from freezing because the temperature of the water running through them is above freezing.

• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home set to a temperature no lower than 55ºF. To Thaw Frozen Pipes If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, first make sure your main water valve is turned on. If it is on, then you may have a frozen pipe. Locate the frozen area of the water pipe: likely places include pipes running against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.

• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins •

•

•

•

•

•

•

to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt more ice in the pipe.

Apply heat to the frozen section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Make sure electrical devices do not come into contact with water.

Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device. A blowtorch can make water in a frozen pipe boil and cause the pipe to explode. All open flames in homes present a serious fire danger, as well as a severe risk of exposure to lethal carbon monoxide.

Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible or if you cannot thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.

Broken Pipes

Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Make sure you and your family knows how to shut off the water in case a pipe bursts.

Call a licensed plumber to make the necessary repairs.

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010

COMMUNITY CALENDAR 4

August

DECEMBER

11

Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.

2

Premiere, A Man For All Seasons

Arvada City Hall

Celebrate the Holidays in Olde Town, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

5

Carolers, sleigh rides, and Santa

Arvada Center

Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

6

A Chocolate Affair

(see page 25)

12-20

11

(see page 25)

Fine Art Market, Arvada Center

Arvada City Hall

Education Studios Sale

14

Arvada Center Galleries

14

O’Brien and Rich Moore, 7:00 p.m.

17

Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

15

14-17

Gathering, Arvada Center

Music with a View: Boulder

(see page 32)

18

Holiday Jazz, 7:00 p.m.

16

20th annual Cowboy Poetry

(see page 3)

Philharmonic Chamber Players

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Celebrate the Holidays in Olde

22

Town, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Carolers, sleigh rides, and Santa

25

(see page 25)

21

Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.

Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

25

Arvada City Hall Closed

19

Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

Music with a View: Boulder Philharmonic Chamber Players

Arvada Center Galleries

18

Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

Arvada Center Galleries

DRCOG Public Hearing regarding the Jefferson Parkway

8

Music with a View: Mollie

Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

16

Olde Town Arvada

Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.

Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.

Mendelssohn String Quartet,

Arvada City Hall

7:00 p.m.

Arvada Center Galleries

Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

Arvada Center: 6901 Wadsworth

28

Music with a View: Janet

Boulevard

Feder, 7:00 p.m.

Arvada City Hall: 8101 Ralston

Arvada Center Galleries

Road

Arvada City Hall

22

Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

25

Christmas Day Arvada City Hall Closed

F

EBRUARY February

1

J

ANUARY January

1

New Year’s Day Arvada City Hall Closed

DRCOG: 1290 Broadway, Suite 700, Denver

Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.

Arvada City Hall

2

Dates subject to change.

Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.

Confirm with appropriate agency.

Arvada City Hall

27

The Arvada Report

December 2009/January 2010 These four pages of The Arvada Report are for and about Arvada businesses.

business link Invest in Arvada!

We are all investors in Arvada – citizens, businesses, and their employees. Like any stockholder of a corporation, you expect a return for your investment. The quality and amount of return on that investment depends on many things: how the investment is used, what products or services are funded, the quality of life you want now and in the future, how much can be invested in your City services…and the list goes on. During coming months you will be increasingly informed of the return on your investment through an “Invest in Arvada” campaign. If you are a citizen, you may notice this symbol at your local stores. If you are a business, you may use this symbol when trying to obtain products or services from other Arvada companies. The bottom line is: The investment you make in Arvada by patronizing local businesses, retailers, restaurants, service providers, etc. will impact your quality of life and/or ability to do business here. It will affect the City’s ability to continue to offer top-notch services that you have come to expect. INVEST IN ARVADA, TODAY AND EVERY DAY! Annual Business Appreciation Event On October 14 more than 300 business and community leaders gathered at the Arvada Center for the 15th Annual Business Appreciation Event. The theme this year was “Breakfast of Champions!” This annual event is designed to recognize the valuable contributions of Arvada businesses to our community, appreciate their community support and involvement, and offer participants the opportunity to meet new or renew business acquaintances. During the event the Arvada Economic Development Association (AEDA) presented 13 awards including the Lloyd J. King Entrepreneurial Award, Community Spirit Award, and eleven 2009 Outstanding Business Awards which were based on significant community involvement, capital investment, increased employment, and overall commitment to the community. Hereford Percy, AEDA Business Retention Chairman emceed the event. Arvada Mayor Bob Frie provided a City update and presented the awards along with AEDA President, Steve Camins.

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2009

Jerry Marks, President of Custom Environmental Services, located at 8041 N. I-70 Frontage Road, Suite 11, received the prestigious Lloyd J. King Entrepreneurial Spirit Award. The Award was established in 1998 to annually honor an individual whose traits and character typify an exemplary entrepreneur. More than 11 years ago, Jerry, an Arvada native, and three others came together to form Custom Environmental Services (CES). CES is a “hands on” environmental contractor and response cleanup team with a network of over 1,500 subcontractors nationally. Jerry’s initial vision for the company was to grow to 10–15 employees. Last year CES was named in the “Top 100 Privately-Held Businesses in Colorado” with gross revenues of $10.5 million, and they added a national division to their business plan. Today, with 65 employees in two locations (Arvada and Colorado Springs) CES does work around the country. Jerry is passionate about his company, employees, and the community he lives in, and is especially proud of, and dedicated to, his family. In fact, he credits his wife, Jannell, as the reason he gets to do what he does. Jerry personally gives back to the community as well. He served nine years as a volunteer Arvada fireman and remains actively involved by funding training courses. He is also active in youth activities including Pomona High School band, athletic programs, and supports the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless and YMCA of the Rockies.

Harry Mathews, owner of Vintage Sales, LLC, located at 5889 Lamar Street was honored with a surprise “2009 Community Spirit” Award for the major contributions he has made to the community through consistent personal, professional, and financial investment. Harry has been a valued member of the AEDA Board of Directors for 15 years where he has shared the exceptional knowledge he has gained through years of entrepreneurial experience. He and his wife, Cris, have been an important part of the Arvada Arts Community since 1996, each year increasing their support which has

The Arvada Report helped the Arvada Center to produce and sustain a variety of quality arts experiences in our community. They have also supported educational programs in Arvada through multiple events, including the many years of the Children’s Charity Gala. They love to travel and have two children who also share their love for the arts.

Eleven 2009 Outstanding Business Awards 3 Sons Italian Restaurant, located at 14805 W. 64th Avenue, Unit C, was recognized for locating the family-style restaurant to Arvada and for the substantial investment made in the construction of their new site. Michael and Susan Scarafiotti have owned the restaurant since 2004. Their daughter, Anna, was also recognized as an integral part of the business’ success. Michael noted that they had enjoyed success for many years at their former Denver location, but had a dream of fulfilling a need for a high-end restaurant in the ever-growing western region of Arvada. They moved the restaurant in early 2008, and proudly serve many of the Scarafiotti family recipes perfected over the years to new, and former, loyal customers alike.

Beyond the Blackboard, located at 7721 Wadsworth Boulevard, Unit B, was created as a grass roots family business six years ago. Sisters Jean Boylan and Jacqueline Killian, built their business to fulfill a vision to provide inspirational and educational supplies, games, and toys that would help teachers “Renew, Inspire, and Teach” their students. Now with two retail locations, one in Arvada’s Indian Tree Shopping Center and one in Aurora, they offer a full range of educational products designed to support teachers and caregivers, as well as awaken the desire to learn in every child. Beyond the Blackboard was honored for their extraordinary support of educators, as well as for substantial special offerings “beyond” their retail sales business.

D-Note, located at 7519 Grandview Avenue in Olde Town Arvada, has become one of Arvada’s favorite spots to dance, listen to great music, relax, and just hang out. Owners Monica and Matthew DeGraff set out with a mission to bring people together to enjoy great food and great live music in a fun and artful atmosphere. They are pleased to be drawing crowds from all over the metro area,

December 2009/January 2010 as well as hosting bands from far away lands, and assisting organizations with local and international aid efforts. Besides their active participation in merchant organizations and Arvada groups, the D-Note has raised more than $100,000 for various charities by hosting and publicizing events, earning them this special recognition for their support of community and benevolent causes.

Faustson Tool, Inc., located at 6803 Joyce Street, Suite A, opened in Arvada 26 years ago in an 80 square foot facility with only one milling machine and two employees—owners Paul and Alicia Svaldi. Today Faustson Tool has grown to include both national and international markets. The company continues to be a pioneer in the machining industry, introducing the Front Range to a variety of new precision machining technologies. Faustson’s reputation for innovation and exceptional quality has made the company suppliers to the defense, aeronautic, medical, and aerospace industries. Faustson Tool was recognized for its non-profit work in the community, the national attention the company brings to Arvada, and for continued growth and success in our community.

JēHN Engineering, located at 5690 Webster Street, was established in 1982 when Joe Jehn opened his homegrown, family-oriented, civil engineering and land surveying company.

Recently, in spite of challenging economic times, that commitment was further cemented at the opening of JēHN Engineering’s new state-of-the-art building in Olde Town Arvada. JēHN Engineering brings global attention to Arvada with its numerous municipal and commercial projects throughout North America, the South Pacific, and Europe. Joe was recognized for JēHN Engineering’s significant building investment which serves as a catalyst for local business growth and for investing his time and talents in several key community boards and foundations.

PrimeStar Solar, located at 14401 W. 65th Way, was honored for its significant investment in a new, modern corporate headquarters and solar module manufacturing facility in Arvada, as well as the addition of many new primary jobs to our community.

Globally focused, yet community minded since 2006,

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The Arvada Report PrimeStar Solar has been raising public awareness and teaching others about the benefits of their technology which makes large scale, clean, renewable, cost competitive solar electric power a reality. With additional facilities in Wheat Ridge, CO and Montague, MI, and strategic investment partners like General Electric, PrimeStar’s solar products will be marketed to serve the renewable energy needs of the world!

Sartorius Mechatronics, located at 6542 Fig Street, has a 130 year history in Colorado, first as the William Ainsworth Company, and later as Denver Instrument. This biotechnology and mechatronics provider was acquired in 1998 by Sartorius, a German group with sales and holdings worldwide. Convinced that Arvada’s prime location was the right place to stay, the facility was expanded from 25,000 to 65,000 square feet housing upgraded office space, expansive shipping dock, and new production and warehousing space. With over $4 million in capital investment in 2008, and job growth in 2009, Sartorius was recognized for its significant investment in the community, the global recognition brought to Arvada, and the many primary jobs in our community.

Sonsio, Inc., was also acknowledged for its substantial investment in the purchase of a new corporate building located at 5630 Ward Road, and for the many primary jobs brought to the Arvada community. Founded in 1983, William Jones created the first nationwide warranty to be offered to the motoring public, with Shell Oil as the first national account. Now in its 25th year of business, with second generation Michael

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December 2009/January 2010

and David Jones at the helm, Sonsio has built the largest network of servicing dealers, supplying road hazard and repair specific programs for over 79.5 million vehicles. Sonsio also contributes to the community through serving on a variety of boards and a CEO peer group which helps others navigate today’s unpredictable business landscape.

Sunflower Farmers Market satisfied requests from citizens for this type of business by locating its store to 7725 Wadsworth Boulevard, and received a warm welcome by its customers when it did. Located in the Indian Tree Shopping Center, the store was recognized for re-energizing the shopping center and neighborhood and for the new jobs it brought to the community. Michael Gilliland and Elizabeth Cook opened the first Sunflower in 2002 after stepping down from the Board of Wild Oats. Their goal has always been to provide a clean, accessible store, and to offer the best quality food at the lowest prices. Now, 25 stores strong, Sunflower Market takes pride in being active within each community in which they are located, and strives to impact those areas where it is needed most.

The Academy Early Childhood Education Center, located at 6412 Fig Street, is another homegrown success story recognized for business expansion and significant investment in building a new state-of-the-art facility.

The Academy was founded in 1994 by Arvada natives, Doug and Kathy Konrad, and first opened at W. 64th Avenue and Simms Street in Arvada. In 2001 they built their second facility in Westminster. This year the Academy relocated the Arvada facility to a new building at W. 64th Avenue and Fig

Street. Offering high-quality preschool and childcare programs to children from 12 months to 12 years, the Academy is committed to building a strong academic foundation for the over 300 children served in the Arvada and Westminster communities.

The Community Partner of the Year award was accepted

by Jefferson County Business Resource Center (JCBRC) Executive Director Denise Stephens and JCBRC Board President Steve Camins.

JCBRC, located at 1667 Cole Boulevard Suite 400, was acknowledged as a valued business partner for providing noor low-cost comprehensive services for start-up and established businesses throughout Jefferson County. The Center opened its doors in June 2006 as a 501(c)3 organization and has assisted nearly 1,100 business to date. Its mission continues to be to provide a onestop center offering centralized access to resources which encourages the development and growth of entrepreneurial activity.

Employment Law In October, Arvada hosted the annual Employment Law Seminar. This event, sponsored by AEDA, continues to grow in attendance each year. Over 60 business representatives for more than 35 companies attended. Back by popular demand, Attorney Chuck Passaglia provided businesses with an update on current legal issues, employment trends, and related legislation. The seminar was included as part of the Jefferson County BES Series and available to all Jefferson County businesses through a collaborative partnership with all Jefferson County municipalities, chambers of commerce, Jefferson County Business Resource Center (JCBRC), and others.

Businesses Education Series (BES) seminars are offered each month featuring different topics.

The Arvada Report Business Information Arvada Chamber of Commerce will host its Annual Dinner on January 22, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Arvada Center. Cost is $75 per person.

Check out www.arvadachamber.org or call Dot at 303-424-0313 for more information or reservations.

Be sure to check AEDA’s website for current news regarding business assistance programs – www.aeda.biz.

You will also find valuable information at the State of Colorado’s website: www.advancecolorado.com.

New Arvada Businesses For a complete listing of Arvada products and services offered by new and existing businesses, go to www.aeda.biz.

Archive Room Restaurant opened at 5601 Olde Wadsworth Boulevard.

The owner also has the Pour House Restaurant in LoDo. Camaro’s Plus located to 5627 Kendall Court, Unit H. Chase Bank is now open in the Arvada Connection Shopping Center on the northeast corner of W. 52nd Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard.

Clear Creek Endodontics opened at 7375 W. 52nd Avenue, Suite 330.

Edible Arrangements located to 5324 Wadsworth Boulevard.

El Senor Sol Restaurant will open soon at 6380 McIntyre Parkway (former Natural Harvest building).

Guild Mortgage Company is a new mortgage broker at 5460 Ward Road, Suite 300.

Jiffy’s located to 10370 W. 64th Avenue and is now offering burritos, specialty hot dogs, and much more.

Metals Treatment Technologies located to 14045 W. 66th Avenue specializing in heavy metals treatment.

Nails Plus is a new salon at 6350 Sheridan, Suite 103A. Premium Downspout Supply opened at 5930 Ingalls Street.

Sylvan Learning Center opened at 5101 Kipling Street, Suite 300 in the Arvada Ridge Shopping Center.

December 2009/January 2010

The Marketplace opened at 7523 Grandview Avenue specializing in children’s clothing.

Udi’s at Grandview Restaurant opened a bread, café, and pizzeria at 7600 Grandview Avenue #100 (southwest corner of Olde Wadsworth Boulevard and Grandview Avenue).

have come together to form a coalition to promote their shopping center in partnership with other local groups.

AEDA facilitated the initial meeting to bring businesses together to begin planning a strategic marketing effort. Watch for activities and promotions in that Center.

AEDA Works with Shopping Centers

If businesses within any shopping center in Arvada would like assistance with this approach to joint marketing, contact the AEDA office at 720-8987010. All you need is a designated “champion” for the Center who is responsible for contacting businesses within the shopping center area and a commitment from most of the businesses to participate in an informational first meeting. AEDA will assist with the initial meeting bringing ideas and resources for the group. From there, respective shopping center businesses can determine what action they would like to take.

Yes, Albertsons did close. But the many businesses in the Arvada West Town Center located at W. 64th Avenue and Indiana Street are still open.

AEDA, along with partners from the Arvada Chamber, JCBRC, and Arvada Press, worked with the businesses in that Center to facilitate a collaborative marketing plan. The businesses are now more proactively promoting themselves and the Center so if you’re in the neighborhood, check them out.

Businesses in the Safeway Marketplace at Meadowlake Village

Look no further!

For holiday events, special gatherings, outstanding gift items, services of all kinds, just look within your own community – you will find it! Arvada enjoys a diverse mix of quality and unique retail stores, dining venues throughout the community, and services offered. During the holiday season, please remember to thank your business neighbors for the many ways they give back to the community. We can create our own local stimulus package by patronizing Arvada merchants and businesses. Do it today! Invest in Arvada!

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PR SRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Denver, CO Permit No. 1278

P.O. Box 8101 8101 Ralston Road Arvada, Colorado 80001-8101 *****ECRWSS ARVADA POSTAL PATRON

Arvada Center Happenings The Arvada Center– Treat Yourself to the Arts!

Children’s Theater

To purchase tickets and for more information call 720-898-7200 or visit www.arvadacenter.org

On Stage 21st Annual

HONK! IS EXTENDED THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS Don’t miss this entertaining children’s tale!

Honk! has an extended Holiday Schedule on select days, December 19-January 3.

For more information call the Box Office, 720-898-7200 or go online: www.arvadacenter.org Book & Lyrics by Anthony Drewe Music by George Stiles Directed by Billie McBride This musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s story The Ugly Duckling brings a contemporary hipness to being “not as cool as everyone else.” This lavish song-and-dance version of the classic tale provides some hilarious insights into discovering that beauty lies within us.

Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering A Contemporary Expression of Cowboy Life and Culture Thurs-Sun, Jan 14-17, 2010 Including: Baxter Black, Michael Martin Murphey, Sons of the San Joaquin, Wylie & The Wild West and other cowboy poets and musicians. Plus Daytime Sessions of Music & Poetry Evening Concert Packages (Thurs-Sat) 3 Evening Concerts Package $125 for Prime & $100 for Value 2 Evening Concerts Package $90 for Prime & $75 for Value

Wylie & The Wild West

Through Jan 3, 2010

Gallery Event

On Stage

Weekday general admission tickets: $8 Weekend reserved tickets: $10

23rd Annual

Music with aView

Go online for more information: arvadacenter.org/on-stage/honk

Fine Art Market

Mollie O’Brien and Rich Moore

Show & Sale Sponsored in part by

2nd Annual

ACES

(Arvada Center Education Studios)

Works for Sale by Arvada Center Students and Their Instructors Additional Support provided by: John G. Duncan Charitable Trust Kinder Morgan Foundation Ralph and Florence Burgess Trust Target Wells Fargo Foundation

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December 11 – 20, 2009 Mon-Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.; Sun, Noon – 5:00 p.m.; Free Admission

Hailed as one of today’s best interpretive singers of American pop, Mollie and her husband Rich Moore return to the Arvada Center to combine the intimacy of one voice and one guitar in an eclectic presentation of blues, vintage roots, and gorgeous ballads.

Thurs, Jan 14, 2010, 7:00 p.m.

ArtTalk/ArtTour starts at 6:15 p.m.

Tickets: General Admission - $10