Golden Informer - January / February 2019

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019

FESTIVAL - FILLED

Winter Months Ahead

BEST Startup City

Golden Voted

2018 Golden City Council

Marjorie Sloan Mayor

Saoirse Charis-Graves District One

Rob Reed Ward One

Paul Haseman Ward Two

Casey Brown District Two

Jim Dale Ward Three

Laura Weinberg Ward Four

303-279-0088 E-mail: msloan @cityofgolden.net

303-709-7529 E-mail: scharisgraves @cityofgolden.net

303-431-9891 E-mail: rreed @cityofgolden.net

303-513-2310 E-mail: phaseman @cityofgolden.net

303-900-2003 E-mail: cbrown @cityofgolden.net

303-916-0810 E-mail: jdale @cityofgolden.net

303-241-9823 E-mail: lweinberg @cityofgolden.net

To contact the entire City Council, e-mail citycouncil@cityofgolden.net.

IN T H IS ISS U E

The Golden Informer is produced and published monthly by the Golden City Manager’s Office and mailed as a source of news and information to all residences and businesses inside the City limits. Comments on The Informer are welcome.

Please write to: City of Golden 911 10th St., Golden, CO 80401 Attn: Karlyn Tilley Call 303-384-8132 or e-mail ktilley@cityofgolden.net.

Cover: Courtesy of Susannah Thompson.

5 Note from Your New Fire Chief 5 H elp Shape Golden’s Future 6 N orth Washington Closure Nears Completion

9 G olden Voted BEST Startup City 12 C olorado Environmental Film Festival

18 S ign Up for

History Summer Camps

7 City Moves to

18-19 UllrGrass Festival

Monthly Water Billing

9 C hanges at the

Chamber of Commerce

18 Cowboy Poets Return to Golden

15 FREE ADMISSION

to Golden History Museum

City of Golden Department Managers

Jason Slowinski City Manager

Carly Lorentz Deputy City Manager

Dan Hartman Public Works

Steve Glueck Comm. & Econ.

Development

Monica Mendoza City Clerk

Rod Tarullo Parks and Recreation

Bill Kilpatrick Police

Alicia Welch Fire Chief

Jeff Hansen Finance

Teresa Reilly Human Resources

Karlyn Tilley Communications

Jiles McCoy Innovation and Technology

303-384-8012 303-384-8063 303-384-8150 303-384-8095 303-384-8014 303-384-8120 303-384-8033 303-384-8090 303-384-8020 303-384-8017 303-384-8132 303-384-8010 clorentz@ jmccoy@ dhartman@ sglueck@ mmendoza@ rtarullo@ bkilpatrick@ awelch@ jhansen@ treilly@ ktilley@ jslowinski@ cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net cityofgolden.net

2 | January/February 2019

HEADS UP: Important Upcoming Items Holiday Tree Recycling Give your tree a second life and turn it into mulch! Drop off your trees through Jan. 24 at the former Golden Recycle site, just west of Hwy 93 and north of Golden Gate Canyon Road. Please leave trees at the south end of the site; there will be a sign there for tree recycling.

Trees must be stripped of all ornaments, hardware, strings of lights and tinsel. The trees will be turned into mulch, which will eventually be available for free at the public pickup site on 11th Street, just west of the Clear Creek History Park. For details, contact the City’s Forestry Office at 303-384-8141.

B

elow is Golden City Council's monthly calendar. Meetings are held on Thursdays and begin at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall, 911 10th St., unless otherwise noted.

Jan. 10 Regular business meeting

Jan. 17 Study session Hedge Maple Tree

Redbud Tree

Linden Tree

Annual City Tree Sale Time to start planning for the City of Golden’s annual tree sale. The sale runs from March 1 through April 15 or until we run out of trees. Sponsored by the Golden Parks and Recreation Department, this is your opportunity to get trees that are known to adapt and thrive in our area.

All trees come in seven-gallon pots and are $65 plus tax.

Quantities are limited and customers may order no more than three trees. Purchase yours at the Golden Community Center, 1470 10th St. Proof of residency is required. For details on the types of trees available, visit www.cityofgolden.net/TreeSale. Questions? Call the Forestry Office at 303-384-8141 or Stacy Turner at 303-384-8191.

Community Sustainability Advisory Board Requests Feedback on Draft Goals The Community Sustainability Advisory Board (CSAB) is working hard to renew the City’s commitment to sustainability by drafting new sustainability goals. Based on feedback received at community events and through citizen surveys on www.GuidingGolden.com, CSAB would like your input on the proposed goals. Please review a draft version of the new goals and submit comments through www.GuidingGolden.com or email goldensustainability@cityofgolden.net.

City Holiday Hours The City of Golden’s administrative offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 21 in observance of Martin Luther King Day. The administrative offices will also be closed on Monday, Feb. 18 in observance of President’s Day.

Jan. 24 Regular business meeting

Feb. 14 Regular business meeting

Feb. 28 Regular business meeting Council’s upcoming agendas, packets and meeting minutes are available online under the City Council link at www.CityofGolden.net.

Public comment is welcome on the agenda at all regular business meetings.

January/February 2019

|

3

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

By Mayor

Marjorie Sloan

E

Reflections on Remarkable Service

nvision a city with no safe water, an unreliable sanitation system, and no trustworthy police or fire departments. A city without sidewalks, trails, maintained streets, or clean outdoor public spaces.

That imaginary city is definitely not the reality we have here in Golden. Here, we can turn a faucet handle for clean water, count on responsive emergency services, stroll or bike along sidewalks and paths, drive on well-maintained and plowed streets, and savor our welcoming public spaces.

It is our city employees who make Golden safe, healthy, comfortable, and beautiful. Every day they come to work and, usually without acknowledgement, meet our needs and wants. At the beginning of this New Year, conscious recognition of our dedicated staff members seems fitting. It’s impossible to detail all their remarkable work in 2018, but here are just a few examples, from just a few departments.

Golden volunteer firefighters and career staff completed over 12,000 hours of training. In responding to a record number of calls, they rescued frightened and perhaps injured motorists, cyclists, kayakers, tubers, hikers, and climbers. They also flipped thousands of pancakes for the Buffalo Bill Days Breakfast and hosted a remarkable Fire and Safety Preparedness Event.

One special day, they re-connected with an individual who traveled from Germany to thank them for saving her life. She had been trapped by a 1,500 pound boulder while hiking on North Table Mountain. Rescue personnel lifted the rock, eased her out from under it, and carried her up the mountain to a rescue helicopter. Less than a year later, she was back in Golden, walking with a prosthetic leg, and again climbing mountains.

The Golden Police Department had an equally busy year, generating some heartwarming stories of service. One officer spotted a 9-year- old boy walking his bike down 6th Avenue after getting lost on his trip home. The officer contacted the youngster’s mother; helped him find his way; and, with a second officer, played basketball with him until his mother arrived. On another call, two officers encountered a man sitting with his legs hanging over the outside edge of the rooftop level of the RTD parking garage. As one officer listened to the despondent man, the other walked behind and pulled the man to safety. There are also reports of officers turning off a slow cooker for a resident stranded by weather and buying shoes for a barefoot homeless person.

In community outreach, police officers created the Golden Safety Academy to educate and empower citizens. They hosted a successful Night out in the Park, invited residents to Coffee with a Cop, and made sure Santa Claus visited Golden children.

Similarly, the Public Works Department served our small town with a neighborly attitude and sophisticated skill. The Linking Lookout Project won numerous national and regional awards. Multiple weather events challenged the Department’s resources.

Working overnight and overtime, snowplow drivers coped with a February storm that dumped 10 inches of snow over a 30-hour period. One summer day, heavy rain, hail, and wind tore through Golden causing street flooding and plugged storm drains. The stormwater division immediately set to work cleaning out infrastructure throughout town. On calmer days, the department conducted its informative Public Works Citizens Academy.

Every day, every city employee, in every department contributes to our Golden quality of life. In the New Year, let us refresh our commitment to the place we call home by thanking city staff members for their dedicated service.

And a Happy, Peaceful New Year to all of Golden.

4 | January/February 2019

Hitting the Ground Running Golden Fire Chief Alicia Welch was sworn into her position on Nov. 26 at Fire Station 1. She is wasting no time establishing herself as an experienced leader with a lot of energy and vision. Already a resident in the Golden area before even applying for the job, she needed no time to adjust to the Golden way of life. As she learns the ins and outs of the Golden Fire Department, she is excited to get to know all of the staff and nearly 80 volunteer firefighters, and bring some new ideas to the table. Chief Welch is also making it a priority to get to know Golden residents and business owners.

A Note from Fire Chief Alicia Welch: To the People of Golden, As your new Fire Chief, I want to personally thank you for the warm welcome and kind messages I have received. I’ve been traveling to Golden for many years and have always loved the charm and friendliness of the people here.

I am very proud to be joining the talented firefighters in your Golden Fire Department (GFD), and look forward to enhancing the quality of life for you through fire and injury prevention, education, and protection of lives and property. In this New Year, expect to see and hear more from GFD as we plan to partner with residents and businesses to provide family emergency preparedness.

We truly are your “Community Partners in Fire and Life Safety.”

I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve you in the capacity of Fire Chief!

Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

Alicia Welch, Golden Fire Chief

M

APPLY NOW TO SERVE YOUR COMMUNITY

arch 13 is the deadline for you to apply for a position on Golden’s various Boards and Commissions. This is a great way to not only serve your community, but also have a say in how decisions are made.

Golden City Council is recruiting applicants to fill expiring appointments to: • Downtown Development Authority; • Fire Pension Board • Parks, Recreation & Museums Advisory Board • Economic Development Commission • Public Art Commission • One appointment to Visit Golden, representing a merchant business or attraction, or with demonstrated marketing expertise

To find out more about the board and commission application process, visit www.cityofgolden.net/ government/boards-commissions/. The application is on the main Boards and Commissions page.

If you are interested in applying, you will need to complete the application form. You may be considered for up to three different boards on one application; be sure to rank your preference on the application.

After completing the application, save and email it to: clerks@cityofgolden.net. The deadline is 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 13. Be sure to SAVE THE DATE for interviews which are scheduled to be held by City Council in the evening on Thursday, April 4. If you have questions contact the City Clerk's Office at 303-384-8014, 303-3848015 or clerks@cityofgolden.net.

January/February 2019

|

5

I

Transportation Master Plan

n September of 2018, the City of Golden began work on a Transportation Master Plan for the community, and the first major public meeting on this initiative took place on Dec. 6. This well-attended and informative meeting is available in its entirety on the Guiding Golden website at https://www.guidinggolden. com/transportation-master-plan.

The goal of a Transportation Master Plan (TMP) is to provide a long-term multimodal transportation vision for the City of Golden. The plan, when adopted, will function as a reliable five to sevenyear road map for future transportation investments throughout the City. The goals of the TMP will be more strategic, incorporating new technologies and the evolving shared economy, to outline future transportation investments focused on improving mobility and access for all modes of travel in a way that is safe and convenient while minimizing congestion and associated impacts.

Kimley-Horn and Apex Design, the City’s transportation planning consultants, in conjunction with the Golden Planning Division, have been collecting and

researching existing transportation conditions within the City of Golden, and presented those findings to the public. A number of assessments were presented and discussed at this meeting, including safety and congestion data for all modes of travel, as well as identifying the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders and motorists. An important part of this process is to identify where people want to travel (origins and destinations), how growth impacts travel, and what barriers exist that prevent people from wanting to use different modes of travel, especially walking, biking and transit.

The next step in this process is for the transportation planners to meet with different stakeholder groups throughout the community, and understand the travel needs of different parts of town and different groups of people. Following this outreach effort, attention will turn toward developing a set of transportation policies and strategies for community consideration. Please follow this yearlong process on Guiding Golden, where you can provide your input along the way: https://www.guidinggolden.com/ transportation-master-plan.

Big Changes Visible on North Washington

T

hroughout the past few months, we have all endured the complete road closure of Washington Avenue from Iowa Street to Hwy 93. We truly appreciate your patience with the detours, increased congestion, zipper merging, and hassle. Now, for the reward. In the beginning of January, the first two phases of the project will be complete, allowing crews to re-open the road. What you will now find on North Washington is better pedestrian access through the corridor complete with new sidewalks and bike lanes. Additionally, you will see back-in angle parking on the east side of Washington. This will provide much needed parking for commuters who take the bus to Boulder, as well as overflow parking for patrons of area businesses.

Onto the final phases of the project. Beginning in midJanuary, the construction and closure moves to the length of Washington Avenue between 2nd Street and Hwy 58.

Construction will run through summer of 2019. This phase includes improvements to bike and pedestrian pathways as

6 | January/February 2019

well as reconfigured on-street parking. The on-ramp from Washington Avenue onto eastbound Hwy 58 will also get a new look. The new design will allow for continued accessibility to 7th Street and Hwy 58, but in a way that is less confusing and safer for pedestrians. We encourage you to check out the entire project at www.GuidingGolden.com. For any questions, contact Joseph Puhr at jpuhr@cityofgolden.net.

MONTHLY WATER BILLING BEGINS IN JANUARY

P

ending Council approval, beginning in January 2019, the City of Golden will be transitioning customers who are currently billed on a quarterly basis, to monthly billing. Customers will receive 12 smaller bills instead of four larger bills.

Monthly billing should make it easier for customers, especially those on fixed incomes, to include the cost of water service in their monthly household budgets.

BENEFITS OF MONTHLY BILLING INCLUDE: • Consistency for planning monthly home budgets.

• Less fluctuation in billing amounts, especially after heavy usage periods.

• Monthly billing provides customers with more frequent and timely information about their water usage.

This benefits customers in two ways: - You can adjust your water usage habits if you feel you are using too much water.

- Gives you a way to detect any leaks in your home plumbing system quicker.

HOW WILL THE TRANSITION TO MONTHLY BILLING HAPPEN? All customers will receive a water bill in January. This bill will cover service fees and water usage from the last quarterly bill received until the billing date in January. You will then be billed on a monthly basis thereafter.

• For customers last billed in October: The January bill will cover service fees and water used from the end of the October bill through the January billing date.

• For customers last billed in November: The January bill will cover service fees and water used from the end of the November bill through the January billing date.

• For customers billed in December: The January bill will cover service fees and water used from the end of the December bill through the January billing date.

If you are enrolled in automatic payments, your account will be debited monthly instead of quarterly beginning in January 2019.

HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR THE AUTOMATIC PAYMENT PROGRAM? Automatic payments are now available for both credit card and e-check. The service is free, and you can discontinue it at any time. Register online at www.municipalonlinepayments.com/goldenco/.

CAN I RECEIVE MY WATER BILL THROUGH EMAIL, INSTEAD OF THE REGULAR MAIL? Yes, join our paperless billing program simply by emailing utilitybilling@cityofgolden.net, and tell us you would like to change to paperless billing. Alternatively, you can call us at 303-384-8026. It is free and easy to do. You will also be able to view your current and past bills online by setting up an account at www.municipalonlinepayments.com/goldenco.

WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION? Our website will be updated as additional information is available. Check www.cityofgolden.net/monthlybilling for updates.

If you have additional questions, contact our Utility Billing Department at utilitybilling@cityofgolden.net or 303-384-8026.

January/February 2019

|

7

O

Don’t Be the Emergency

n November 27, the Golden Fire Department responded to a 911 call of a fallen climber on North Table Mountain. Assisted by Fairmount Fire and AMR Ambulance, fire crews organized rescue equipment at the base of the mesa to extricate the injured climber from a large crack in the rock formation, and transport him to the top of the mesa.

Once stabilized, the victim was secured into a rescue basket. Fire crews performed a technical rope rescue up haul of nearly 100 feet. A Flight for Life helicopter then landed on top of the mesa and took the patient to the hospital. The rescue took about two hours and many personnel. While our first responders are highly trained for this type of mission, many of these incidents are avoidable. Below are a few safety tips to keep in mind as you enjoy hiking and climbing activities in Golden.

• D o not go alone. It is always safer to be out in the wilderness with others. If you do go alone, properly plan your route, and always notify a friend or family member where you are going and when you plan to return.

• F or any hike, always carry at a minimum, the "Ten Essentials" - these include a map, compass, sunglasses and sunscreen, extra clothing, headlamp/flashlight, first-aid supplies, firestarter/matches, plenty of water, knife, and extra food. Be sure to carry your cell phone just in case of an emergency to call 911 for help.

• W ear proper equipment for the type of hike/ climbing you are going to perform. Sturdy hiking boots/shoes or trail runners are a necessity in the backcountry. Stay on the trail, even during muddy conditions, to avoid erosion and other resource damage. This also helps to keep you from getting lost.

• G et properly trained before attempting to use ropes and technical climbing equipment. If you are climbing, be sure to use all necessary safety equipment.

For more information about hiking safety and safety classes offered, contact Roger Wendell at the Colorado Mountain Club at 303-279-3080 or www.cmc.org.

8 | January/February 2019

G

Changes at the Chamber of Commerce

oing into 2019, the Greater Golden Area Chamber of Commerce is embarking on a new course in their longstanding mission to serve Golden businesses.

Founded in 1920, the nearly 100-year old organization is one of the oldest Chambers of Commerce in the area, and seeks to benefit both members and the general community.

The Chamber Board of Directors is seeking a new Executive Director, and has announced that they want to refocus on their strategic goals to serve members and support our local business community.

While these shifts will ultimately be positive for our business community and visitors, the director vacancy came at a very busy time for the organization. The Chamber of Commerce is responsible for Golden’s beloved Candlelight Walk as well as the series of Olde Golden Christmas parades, and Chamber staff worked extra hard to host the events without a leader.

Community partners including the Visit Golden marketing team, the City Economic Development Commission, the Visitors Center, the City Streets Department and Special Event Coordinator chipped in to help with manpower, and to cover some of the additional costs for the events.

With that extra help, the Chamber Board, staff, and dedicated community volunteers pulled off one of our most successful holiday seasons in many years. Incoming Chamber Board Chair Lorraine DAversa thanks the community for “such a warm and collaborative community celebration.”

I

Carol Ann Bowles with her husband Bill.

We would be remiss if we didn’t recognize one individual in particular. Carol Ann Bowles has been the main coordinator for the Chamber holiday events for many years. She was even pulled out of retirement so the Chamber and City would continue to benefit from her vast expertise. Amidst a major transition, Carol Ann kept everyone organized and on task. She has truly earned her nickname “Christmas Carol!”

As the Chamber looks toward the future, the Board of Directors will delve into the Chamber’s signature events as part of their overall conversation and restructuring. The Board of Directors expects to start interviewing applicants for the Executive Director position starting this month. They hope to involve community members in the selection and are excited for the new opportunities and challenges that 2019 will bring.

GOLDEN VOTED BEST UP & COMING STARTUP CITY

n November, the City of Golden was awarded Colorado’s Best Up & Coming Startup City at the Colorado Capital Conference. There to accept the award on behalf of the city was Traxion, a Golden-based company that is at the forefront of the effort to grow the local startup community.

Traxion has worked with more than 40 startups in the area through educational programs, workshops and customized support. They won a Mayor’s Award of Excellence in 2017 for their efforts. The availability of a centralized hub for Golden’s startup

activity enables founders to connect with experienced entrepreneurs, industry executives and experts in specific areas of technology, engineering and science.

Fortunately, Golden has an abundance of individuals with track records of professional success who are willing to share their expertise and experience with founders as a mentor or advisor. The alumni at the Colorado School of Mines have actively participated in building the entrepreneurial community in Golden, and offered numerous advisors in engineering and energy, as well as several founders. We are proud to be a city that fosters new and growing businesses in our community!

January/February 2019

|

9

GOLDEN COMMUNITY CALENDAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Due to the overwhelming success of December’s combined event, your District One and District Two Councilors are teaming up to co-host Coffee with a Councilor in 2019! The plan is to alternate each month between Café 13 in the north part of town, and Bean Fosters in the south part of town. Please note the new times, dates and locations!

Jan. 12 Coffee with Councilors – All Neighborhoods Chat with your District One and Two Councilors at 3 p.m. at Café 13, 1301 Arapahoe St. For details call Councilor Casey Brown at 303-900-2003 or email cbrown@cityofgolden.net.

Jan. 17 - 20 American Mountaineering Center

Jan. 14 to Feb. 22 Boot Camp Challenge Kick the year off right with good health and fitness. Designed for every fitness level, BCC gives you the motivation and affordability of group exercise with the accountability and results of personal training. 5:45 to 6:45 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Golden Community Center, 1470 10th St. For information call 720-628-2901 or email kdcragg@aol.com

Jan. 16, 17, 22, 24 Shelton Elementary Tours Shelton Elementary invites the community to visit the school on the four dates in January to tour the school and observe classrooms at work. Check out the newly redesigned library space, Markerspace area, STEAM/STEM carts, community garden, and outdoor learning area. Tours are from 10 to 11 a.m. on Jan. 16, 17, 22 and 24.

Jan. 25 - 27 Parfet Park

Jan. 17 to 20 Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering A festival of Western music, poetry and storytelling. American Mountaineering Center, 710 10th St. For tickets and details visit www.ColoradoCowboyGathering.com.

Jan. 21 Martin Luther King Day

Jan. 25 - March 3 at Miners Alley Playhouse

City of Golden administrative offices will be closed.

Jan. 25 to 27 UllrGrass Music & Beer Festival The three-day festival takes place in Parfet Park with night shows at the Buffalo Rose. Festival-goers dress in Viking regalia to celebrate the Norse God of Winter, bluegrass music and craft beer. More details on p. 18-19 and at www.UllrGrass.com.

Jan. 25 through March 3 Lost in Yonkers A Neil Simon classic about two young boys from New York who learn lessons

10 | January/February 2019

Feb. 21 - 23 Colorado Environmental Film Festival

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . January/February 2019 of love, responsibility, and the importance of family. Miners Alley Playhouse, 1224 Washington Ave. For tickets and show times call 303-935-3044 or visit www.minersalley.com.

Feb. 2 Groundhog Day Feb. 5 Chinese New Year Year of the Pig

Feb. 9 Coffee with Councilors – All Neighborhoods Chat with your District One and Two Councilors at 10 a.m. at Bean Fosters, 720 Golden Ridge Rd. For details call Councilor Saoirse Charis-Graves at 303-279-7529 or scharisgraves@cityofgolden.net.

Feb. 14 Valentine’s Day Feb. 18 President’s Day City of Golden’s administrative offices will be closed.

FREE

Sales and Use Tax Workshop The City of Golden is hosting a FREE workshop taught by our professional staff of auditors. Geared toward individuals who want to learn sales and use tax concepts on an in-depth level.

March 6, 2019.............. 8:30 to 10 a.m.

The workshop will be held in the Golden City Hall Conference Room, City Hall, 911 10th St. Although this workshop is free, space is limited.

Please call 303-384-8024 for your reservation.

Building Use Tax workshops are available upon request.

Tell them you read about them in the Golden Informer!

Feb. 21 to 23 Colorado Environmental Film Festival An exciting, inspiring, and energizing three-day event that includes world-class environmental films. American Mountaineering Center, 710 10th St. More details on p. 12. For tickets call 303-885-4596 or visit www.ceff.net.

Feb. 28 Shelton Coyote Carnivale Shelton Elementary hosts “Coyote Carnivale,” a Mardi Gras themed Silent Auction at the new Origin Hotel with proceeds supporting Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math. This is a community wide event anyone can attend.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.sheltonptsa.org/ silent-auction-news.html.

Information is subject to change. Please use contact information to confirm the details of an event. To list a community event happening in Golden, please send your listing to: Golden City Hall, Communications Dept., 911 10th St., Golden, CO 80401, or by e-mail to ktilley@cityofgolden.net. Listings should include the date(s), the event name and a brief description of the event, which may include cost, location and contact information.

Submissions must be received by the first of the month prior to the issue you would like them printed in (i.e., Jan. 1 for the February issue). Call 303-384-8132 with questions or for more information.

For more up to date information or other things to do in Golden, visit VisitGolden.com.

Please call 303-279-1435, for more information.

January/February 2019

|

11

Now Accepting Golden Sustainability Award Nominations

D

o you know someone, or possibly a business in our community that strives to create a greener Golden? Now is your chance to recognize these environmentally conscious people by nominating them for a Golden Sustainability Award.

The City of Golden’s Community Sustainability Advisory Board (CSAB) is looking for nominations for the following categories: Student • Individual • Business Community Group Nominations are open through March 22. Download the application at www.cityofgolden.net/SustainabilityAwards.

City Council will present the awards in celebration of Earth Councilor Laura Weinberg and CSAB member Whitney Painter presenting an Day in April. award to representatives from MillerCoors.

13th Annual Colorado Environmental Film Festival

I

f you have never been to the Colorado Environmental Film Festival (CEFF), mark your calendar for February 21 to 23.

Back for its 13th year, CEFF will present a timely and inspiring program of thought provoking films that raise awareness of a wide variety of interconnected ecological, social and economic themes. Nearly 50 films by local, international and young filmmakers will screen in two theaters. For many of the screenings, filmmakers will be present to engage with the audience in Q&A sessions.

Activities planned to complement the festival include a CEFF Community Night and an Eco Expo that will bring together local golden businesses and festival-goers who want to learn more about the issues presented in the films, and discover ways to actively get involved. Highlights of this year's Eco-Expo include Wildlife Protection Solutions who will provide a virtual reality wild animal experience, and Nature's Educators who are bringing their amazing live animal ambassadors to educate and wow attendees!

Community Night is from 5 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 21 at the American Mountaineering Center, 710 10th St. It is free and family friendly. A silent auction, CEFF’s largest

12 | January/February 2019

fundraiser, will help support this important film festival.

Check out a free preview event from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 13 at the Golden Library, 1019 10th St. The preview includes a screening of the “2018 Best of the Fest” film How We Grow, and you will get a sneak peek at a few of the 2019 short films.

Want to attend for free? Volunteers are always needed and can earn free film screening tickets by working festival shifts. Sign up at www.ceff.net/volunteer. You can find a full schedule of events and showings, film descriptions, as well as purchase tickets online at www.ceff.net.

Social, Economic & Environmental Issues

Golden Recycling Provider Responds to China’s Recycling Restrictions in a Big Way

F

or many years, recycling sorting facilities in the U.S. (also called “MeRFs”, or Material Recovery Facilities) have shipped certain plastics to China where any contamination (trash, nonplastics) that may have been missed in the U.S. sorting process must be discarded. Last year, China became stricter with how much contamination is allowed in the shipments. Businesssavvy MeRFs invest in innovative technologies to ensure a lower level of contamination and therefore a higher market price for the materials. Other MeRFs who cannot effectively prevent contamination are forced to sell to processors inside the U.S. This surplus of plastics within the U.S. has a temporary, but negative affect on commodities prices.

Because China is the largest importer of recyclable materials, Golden’s recycling provider, Alpine Waste & Recycling, has made aggressive changes to their operations. During a recent tour of Alpine Waste & Recycling’s MeRF in Denver, Vice President Brent Hildebrand explained the steps Alpine has taken to respond to China’s new rules. “The restrictions are very tough to meet,” he said. “We have slowed the processing system down and brought in extra workers to more thoroughly vet the materials going through to look for contaminants.”

Alpine’s continued investment in innovative technologies has also helped. A new robot, nicknamed Clark, uses artificial intelligence to pick up and sort recyclables at a rate much faster than humans. Workers help it recognize new materials so it is continually learning and it even shares its new information with other MeRFs around the country. Elsewhere, an optical sorting machine “sees” different types of materials on the assembly line and uses puffs of air to shoot the materials to an appropriate bin.

The new technologies not only increase efficiency and reduce contamination, but have also helped Alpine process materials

G

Crews at Alpine’s Altogether Recycling sort through tons of recyclable materials.

not previously accepted, like block Styrofoam and Starbucks coffee cups (Yes, if your household participates in the City’s waste and recycling collection program or uses Alpine Waste as its hauler, you can now recycle single use coffee cups!).

One way you help keep the stream clean? “Metal objects, such as car parts, oven pans, and tools can cause the sorting system to be down for hours due to damaged equipment,” Hildebrand said. “It’s a really big deal and we need to educate people on what’s acceptable and what is not acceptable in the recycling stream.” Check out the complete list of Alpine’s accepted materials at www.cityofgolden.net/trash and spread the word.

Together, we can keep the business of recycling in business.

GOLDEN HAULER ADDS SINGLE USE COFFEE CUPS TO RECYCLING PROGRAM

olden is now one of the leading cities in the country to add single use coffee cups (ex. Starbucks cups) to its recycling program. Paper coffee cups were once thought to be non-recyclable due to their plastic coating, however, the City’s waste hauler, Alpine Waste & Recycling, has found a new market for these materials. As a result, all Golden households that participate in the City’s waste and recycling collection program or use Alpine Waste as its hauler can now include single use coffee cups in their recycle bin. Before placing a single use coffee cup in your recycling bin, it must be clean and empty.

All sleeves, lids, straws and stirrers need to be removed, ensuring that the cups are able to be recycled.

January/February 2019

|

13

Golden Community Center activities calendar VolleyTots and CheerTots Age: 4-5 years Spanish for Preschool #651605 Tuesday, 10:30 - 11:20 a.m.

Give your child the opportunity to learn (02) Feb. 12 - March 5 a second language.

Tony Grampsas Gym, 4471 Salvia St. Age: 3 - 6 years, Min/Max: 5/12 $59 Resident, $64 Non-resident #455110 Thursdays, 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.

More information at rec.cityofgolden.net (01) Jan. 10 - Feb. 14 or skyhawks.com/colorado.

(02) Feb. 28 - March 24 $120 Resident, $125 Non-resident CREATIVE ARTS

TYKES

JumpBunch® Parent/Tot Age: 15 months - 3 years, Min/Max: 4/12 #455710 Wednesdays, 4 - 4:30 p.m.

(01) Jan. 9 - Feb. 13 $54 Resident, $59 Non-resident (02) Feb. 20 - March 20 $45 Resident, $49 Non-resident

JumpBunch® PreK - 2nd Grade Age: 3 - 7 years, Min/Max: 4/15 #455720 Mondays, 12:45 - 1:30 p.m.

(01) Jan. 14 - March 18 $80 Resident $85 Non-resident #455720 Wednesdays, 4:30 - 5:15 p.m.

(02) Jan. 9 - Feb. 13 $60 Resident, $65 Non-resident (04) Feb. 20 - March 20 $50 Resident, $55 Non-resident

SuperTots Skills Taught in January: SoccerTots Age: 2-3 years #651604 Tuesday, 9:30 - 10:20 a.m.

(01) Jan. 15 - Feb. 5 Age: 4-5 years #651604 Tuesday, 10:30 - 11:20 a.m.

(02) Jan. 15 - Feb. 5 Tony Grampsas Gym, 4471 Salvia St. $59 Resident, $64 Non-resident Skills Taught in February: VolleyTots and CheerTots Age: 2-3 years #651605 Tuesday, 9:30 - 10:20 a.m.

(01) Feb. 12 - March 5

(01) Jan. 2, 3, 4 $275 Resident, $280 Non-resident

ADULT/YOUTH SPECIALTY Babysitting Course

This course is designed for the pre-teen and helps them to prepare for those first babysitting opportunities.

Age: 11 - 14 years, Min/Max: 5/20 #452410 Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

My First Abrakadoodle Art Class (01) Jan. 12 This class introduces new art experiences (02) Feb. 2 to the youngest of doodlers. $65 Resident, $70 Non-resident Age: 1½ - 4 years, Min/Max: 7/12 Bring a sack lunch to class. #453510 Wednesdays, 9:30 - 10:15 a.m.

Medic Pediatric CPR/First Aid (01) Jan. 16 - Feb. 6 A great opportunity for young babysitters (02) Feb. 20 - March 13 and parents to renew or learn the basics. $66 Resident, $71 Non-resident Age: 11 - Adult, Min/Max: 5/20 Mud Makers #452430 Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Parents and preschoolers will create (01) Jan. 19 with clay. $65 Resident, $70 Non-resident Age: 3 - 6 years, Min/Max: 4/6 #453601 Tuesdays, 4:15 - 5 p.m.

YOUTH & TEEN ACTIVITIES (01) Jan. 15 - Feb. 5 Other Earths Workshop $45 Resident, $50 Non-resident Kids get to take a deep space journey to #453600 Tuesdays, 12:45 - 1:30 p.m. some of the exciting new worlds recently (01) Feb. 19 - March 12 discovered around distant stars. $45 Resident, $50 Non-resident Age: 5 - 12 years, Min/Max: 6/16 #455211 Saturdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Clay Creations (02) Feb. 23 Kids learn clay-forming techniques. $25 Resident, $30 Non-resident Age: 6 - 12 years, Min/Max: 4/8 #453602 Thursdays, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

Alien Invasion Workshop (01) Jan. 17 - Feb. 7 Takes kids on a virtual space mission to (02)Feb. 21 - March 14 search for alien life. $50 Resident, $55 Non-resident Age: 5 - 12 years, Min/Max: 6/16 #455202 Saturday, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Do You Want to Build a Snowman?

(02) Jan. 19 Winter Break Art Camp $25 Resident, $30 Non-resident This camp will explore winter and all the #455202 Friday, 1 – 5 p.m. sparkly, cold and wonderful things about it!

(04) Feb. 15 Age: 5 - 10 years, Min/Max: 5/15 Early Release Day workshops - $45 #453532 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Resident, $50 Non-resident

For more information and to register, visit https://rec.cityofgolden.net.

14 | January/February 2019

T

Golden History Museum – FREE Admission in 2019!

hanks to the generosity of a private donor, and in celebration of their 80th anniversary, Golden History Museum & Park is pleased to offer free admission in 2019 to all visitors. With the exception of Tuesdays and select holidays, the History Museum, located at 923 10th St., is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The announcement comes just months after a 2018 grand reopening that showcased new programming spaces, a research center, a hands-on gallery for families with young children, and dynamic new exhibits that highlight the City’s collection of historic objects. “We’re lucky to be able to combine the opening of our revitalized space with both free admission and our 80th anniversary,” said Museum Director Nathan Richie. “We continue to meet local visitors who haven’t been to the museum in many years and they’re pleasantly surprised at the changes we’ve unveiled.”

Dozens of different history programs featuring expert speakers are also offered throughout the year. Varied topics range from a late-1800s murder mystery to local archaeology. Non-members are charged a fee for lectures and programs, but members are free. “We don’t want admission to be a visitation barrier,” continued Richie. “Our hope is that every Goldenite has the chance to explore

Credit: Scott Dressel-Martin.

their local museum and take advantage of exciting history programs. I think people will come to appreciate the stories and objects we’ve been working to preserve for the last 80 years.”

Household memberships start at just $75 and include two free guest passes to almost all programs, in addition to special registration preference and pricing for the popular summer camp program, Hands-on History (see p. 18 for details).

Visit GoldenHistory.org/join for more information on all museum offerings.

Front Porch Staying Close to Home

E

ach month, the Golden Informer has featured a page with activity listings for the Front Porch. For those not familiar, the Front Porch is an area in the Golden Community Center (GCC) designed specifically for seniors. It offers respite and entertainment, coffee and healthy snacks. Additionally, there are a variety of games, social events, Silver Sneakers classes, billiards, and a library.

In the past, the Front Porch hosted trips to places and events throughout Colorado. Unfortunately, due to the rising cost of leasing the vans and liability, combined with dwindling participation in the events, the decision has been made to discontinue Front Porch trips.

This will save approximately $10,000/yr. in operational and insurance costs.

The Front Porch will continue to offer all other in-house services, as well as provide healthy snacks and coffee throughout the year. However, the free lunch on the first Friday of each month will also be discontinued. “We apologize for any inconvenience this creates for our seniors,” said Front Porch Supervisor Kristi Marosy. “Our seniors are very important to us and we will continue to serve them in every way possible.”

GOLDEN BOOK CLUB The Golden Book Club meets the 4th Tuesday of each month at the Front Porch. If you are interested in joining, email Jan Bradbury at bobjanbradbury@ comcast.net.

Book Schedule: January - Beneath A Scarlet Sky, Mark Sullivan February - The Brain: The Story of You, David Eagleman CELEBRATE HEALTH! The first Friday of each month, we offer March - Factfulness: Ten Reasons the following services for nominal fees.

We're Wrong about the World, Rosling For more information or to make an April - The Chosen, Chaim Potok appointment for one of our services, May - Why We Sleep, Matthew Walker call 303-283-8130.

June - The Snows of Kilimanjaro, Chair Massages................ $13 for 15 mins.

Reflexology Session....... $13 for 15 mins.

Ernest Hemingway January/February 2019

|

15

2019 Claim Form for 2018 Sales Tax Refund The sales tax refund is limited to senior, low-income or disabled individuals who have lived within the city limits of Golden for at least 90 consecutive days in 2018 and cannot be claimed as a dependent on any other person’s tax return.

The refund amount for 2018 is $50. This will be adjusted for partial year residency in Golden and partial year at age 65. Call 303-384-8024 with questions.

Please check one box only:

q q

Senior Refund (must be 65 years or older) Low Income Refund Proof required. Attach a photocopy of one of the following: • State of Colorado Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate approval notification • Proof of Medicaid benefits • Proof of LEAP eligibility • Proof of eligibility for food stamps

q

Disabled Refund Proof required. Attach a photocopy of one of the following: • State of Colorado Property Tax/Rent/Heat Rebate approval notification • Proof of full benefits from Social Security Disability Income, SSI or the Department of Human Services • Proof of total disability from a public or private insurance plan

Please print or type: Name: Mr(s).

Age: Name: Mr(s).

Age:

Date of Birth: Date of Birth:

Physical Address:

Golden, CO ZIP

Mailing Address:

City

State

ZIP

Phone: How many months did you reside in the city limits of Golden during 2018?

Were you claimed as a dependent on any other person’s income tax form?

Signature:

months

q yes

q no

Signature:

This form must be submitted by no later than April 15, 2019.

Refund Donation Option: You have the option to donate your refund to a City of Golden program or department by checking one of the boxes below:

q Golden Volunteer Fire Department q Golden Cemetery q Other City program or department (please identify): Office Use Only: Account #01-3031-61900

STR Vendor #

q Community Grant Program q Golden Senior Front Porch

Received

Payable

G

Sign Up Now! Hands On History Summer Camps

olden History Museum & Park’s Hands-on History summer program will feature a new half-day theme this year for 9- to 11-year-old campers called Settle Down. This camp will explore what it took for ancient and historic Coloradans to settle, survive, and prosper on this land.

Colorado’s first settlers were seminomadic, migrating with the seasons and following food sources. Golden’s foothills and valleys offered shelter, food and water sources, and areas to safely meet and trade with other tribes.

Over thousands of years, Colorado’s natural landscape and available resources have encouraged humans to migrate through and settle in these lands. Native American tribes moved through the Front Range as much as 7,000 years ago, camping at resourcerich sites such as the Magic Mountain archaeological site along Apex Gulch in Golden.

The Magic Mountain site has been known to archaeologists since the 19th century. The first official excavation took place in 1941 but later digs provided clues to artistic traditions, daily practices, and diet. Bones from small mammals prove that early settlers ate diverse foods, while projectile points made of a variety of materials—both local and nonnative— show migration and trading patterns from surrounding territories.

Since 2016, archaeologists and volunteers have worked with the Denver Museum of Nature & Science to diligently map and excavate new areas

Archaeological dig at the Magic Mountain site near Golden, CO. L-R: Samari J.; Mary Ann Gabriel, Paleo Cultural Research Group; Justice R.; Ana Gadson; Abbe Kanke, Boys and Girls Club. ©Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

at the site. They have unearthed more information about Colorado’s early settlers and why they chose this area to visit year after year.

Early settlements such as the ones found at the Magic Mountain site showed later settlers that this land, while sometimes challenging, could yield historic achievements. White settlers were lured here in the 1850s by the promise of striking it rich with gold. Homesteaders learned how to manipulate the land to redirect water and produce crops. No matter the reason for settling in Colorado, humans have found struggle, achievement, and home.

The Museum’s Hands-on History campers will “travel back in time” to explore why various types of settlements were successful or not.

They will work together to make the same decisions that faced historic Coloradans to ensure their survival and progress, such as if the railroad should come through Colorado, determining if their neighboring communities are safe to trade with, and which jobs are necessary for their society to triumph.

Settle Down runs four times throughout the summer—register fast before spaces fill up!

Visit GoldenHistory.org/HOH to see the schedule and sign up. Also, check out the other fun summer camp themes: Pioneer Kids, Dirty Jobs, History Mystery, Pastimes in Times Past, Art Explorers, and Silent Stars. Themes serve campers ages 6-12; please check the themes on the website carefully for age requirements.

Golden History Museum & Park • 923 10th St. • 303-278-3557 Check GoldenHistory.org for hours of operation, calendar of programs, and special event details.

January/February 2019

|

17

Cowboy Poets Gather in Golden COLORADO COWBOY POETRY GATHERING January 17 – 20 American Mountaineering Center, 710 10th St. Tickets and more information: www.coloradocowboygathering.com

I

f you see a bunch of ten-gallon hats on the streets of Golden, don’t panic, it’s just the annual gathering of cowboy poets! This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering, and the festival of Western music, poetry and storytelling will not disappoint! The celebration begins on Thursday, Jan. 17 at the American Mountaineering Center with a Sampler Showcase - a fun and fast-paced show where each performer presents one number. This event often sells out, so be sure to get your tickets early. Cowboy entertainer Dave Stamey will headline the event. Stamey is the real deal - he has been a cowboy, a mule packer and dude wrangler, and is now one of the most popular Western entertainers. Other performers include Gary McMahan, who will host the Friday evening event. Gary has been called the ‘cowboy Bob Dylan” and is renowned for his award-winning songs and captivating stories. His poems embody what many believe to be the heart of the new West. Saturday evening, join host Carol Heuchan, an award-winning Australian Bush Poet who will lend an international flair to the event. The Campfire Cooking Lunch will bring you back to the West, with an old fashioned Chuckwagon style meal reminiscent of those served on cattle drives. It’s an authentic experience with food and cowboy storytelling. There’s also an opportunity to bring the Cowboy Poets into local schools. If you are interested in having a cultural cowboy experience, check out the website under ‘outreach’ and invite a cowboy to class!

W

Celebrate Winter at Ullrgrass 2019

arm up with the diverse lineup of music and craft beer at Ullrgras.

The music and beer festival, now in its 5th year, will bring together winter worshippers of bluegrass and beer at Parfet Park beginning on Friday, Jan. 25 through the weekend. Ullrgrass, named for the Norse God of Winter, has grown from a local festival to one that Westword Magazine named one of the Top Ten Outdoor Winter Music Festivals.

Performers at this year’s festival will feature Grammy winning artist Sam Bush with his band. Bush, who has been called the Father of “Newgrass” is considered ‘roots royalty’ and has collaborated with renowned artists such as Emmylou

18 | January/February 2019

Ullrgrass will also be the first show at the newly renovated Buffalo Rose.

As of press time, the Buffalo Rose is slated to open on Ullrgrass weekend to feature some of the performances on its brand new stage. If you just can’t wait until the end of January, come down and check out the Ullrgrass Troubadour Contest at the Old Capitol Grill on Wednesday, Jan. Harris, Lyle Lovett and Bela Fleck. He is 16. Contestants will compete to win a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement a festival pass to the 2019 Ullrgrass Award from the Americana Music Music & Beer Festival, and a slot to Association. Ullrgrass will also feature a perform in 2020! The contest is free talented lineup of artists, including some and open to the public.

Advance ticket sales, a complete local artists. Enjoy samplings from over 25 breweries and cideries from around schedule of events and musician line the state and beyond. up at: www.ullrgrass.com.

Golden, Golden, CO --CO CO Golden, --Parfet Parfet Park CO and -and Park Parfet Buffalo and Park Buffalo Rose and Rose Buffalo Rose Golden, Golden, Golden, Golden, Golden, CO -Parfet CO -Parfet CO -Parfet -Parfet Parfet Park Park Park Park Park and and Buffalo and Buffalo and Buffalo Buffalo Buffalo Rose Rose Rose Rose Rose Golden, COCO Parfet Park and Buffalo Rose

C

C

C

C

C

C M

M

M

M

M

M Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y CM

CM

M

CM

CM

CM

CM MY

MY

Y

MY

MY

MY

MY CY

CY

CY

CY

CY

CY CMY

CMY

CMY

CMY

CMY

CMY K

K

K

K

K

K

Y

2019 Poster 102618.pdf 1 12/4/2018 2019 Poster 5:15:54 102618.pdf PM 1 12/4/2018 2019 5:15:54 Poster PM 102618.pdf 1 12/4/2018 5:15:54 PM 2019 Poster 102618.pdf 1 12/4/2018 2019 Poster 5:15:54 102618.pdf PM 1 12/4/2018 2019 5:15:54 Poster PM 102618.pdf 1 12/4/2018 5:15:54 PM

C

C

C

C

C

CC

M

M

M

M

M

MM

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

YY

CM

CM

CM

CM

CM

CM CM

MY

MY

MY

MY

MY

MY MY

CY

CY

CY

CY

CY

CY CY

CMY

CMY

CMY

CMY

CMY

CMY CMY

K

K

K

K

K

KK

PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID GOLDEN, CO PERMIT #26

POSTAL PATRON

LIVE •

WORK

• P L AY

...your summer away - in Golden!

The City of Golden will soon be accepting applications for seasonal and part-time positions at the Golden Community Center, the Splash Aquatic Park, Fossil Trace Golf Club, and the Parks department.

Opportunities include: Lifeguards • Swim Instructors • Youth Sports Coach • Day Camp Leader Day Camp Coordinator • Parks, Forestry, Cemetery Maintenance • Golf Maintenance Pro-Shop Guest Services at Fossil Trace • Cashiers and Food & Beverage workers at The Splash

Check out our website at www.cityofgolden.net/jobs/ for job availability.