Littleton indpendent 0711

Littleton 7.11.13

July 11, 2013

Arapahoe County, Colorado • Volume 124, Issue 24

75 cents

A Colorado Community Media Publication

ourlittletonnews.com

Project garners board’s backing Neighbors at meeting agree Littleton Village a good idea

By Jennifer Smith

jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com

This was the 18th year several local agencies and communities have joined together to put on a July 4 celebration in the adjacent parks. For 2013, contributors and sponsors included Englewood, Littleton, South Suburban Parks and Recreation, Sheridan, Centennial and Arapahoe County. A small army of volunteers was on hand to help put on the event, including representatives from the Arapahoe Rescue Patrol and Englewood Neighborhood Watch as well as graduates of the Englewood Citizens Academy. Also, Englewood Country Buffet annually donates the food to feed police officers, firefighters and volunteers. Englewood police and paramedics on bicycles moved through

Only eight people spoke during the planning board’s July 8 public hearing on the Littleton Village proposal for the old Marathon site, and the general tone was supportive.

“I’m looking forward to having coffee at one of the restaurants, looking at the sunset going down over Mount Evans,” said Paul Raab, who lives just a few blocks from the site, which lies on the east side of Broadway at Dry Creek Road. The city will benefit from the additional revenue, jobs and services, he said.

In addition to the sales and property taxes the site will generate, Littleton City Council is expected to vote on implementing impact fees during its Aug. 16 meeting, said senior planner Jan Dickinson. Those are fees developers pay to offset any negative effects a project might have on the community at large, such as on infrastructure or public services. Watt Investment Partners, Littleton Village’s developer, will also make improvements to Broadway and Dry Creek Road as part of the project.

The board voted unanimously to send a favorable recommendation on to city council, which is expected to hold a public hearing and final vote at the end of August. It approved the current zoning and site plan in 2006, and the only significant change that Watt Investment Partners wants to make is to turn a diagonal street into a straight one to create a more traditional shopping experience.

Complex continues on Page 21

Project continues on Page 21

Adrianna Wright, 7, prepares to enter a plastic bubble in one of the attractions at the July 4 gathering that brought families to Belleview and Cornerstone parks. Photo by Tom Munds

Fourth is busy day at parks complex Holiday is crowd-pleaser in Englewood, Littleton

By Tom Munds

tmunds@ourcoloradonews.com A crowd estimated in the thousands gathered on July 4 in Belleview Park, Cornerstone Park and a wide area in Englewood and Littleton surrounding the parks to watch the fireworks.

The display was part of the annual July 4 fireworks and festival event that included food vendors, games and a variety of activities.

It was sunny and hot early, and Belleview Park filled up first because of the abun-

dance of tall trees providing shade.

Shelia Traylor and her husband were setting up their tent in Cornerstone Park about 3 p.m. because Belleview Park was full.

“We were surprised when we came to Cornerstone, found a place to park and a nice place to set up the tent where we will have a good view of the fireworks,” the Centennial resident said.

Traylor said she grew up in Englewood and remembers her parents taking her to see the fireworks over the Centennial Park Lake in the 1960s.

“We like fireworks. So do our kids and their kids. This year, our son and three of our grandchildren will be joining us shortly so we can watch the fireworks show together,” she said.

Street name may be changed to honor sister city Australian visitors will be on hand in August

By Jennifer Smith

jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com In the welcoming spirit of the sister-city program, Littleton City Council will vote July 16 on whether to change the name of the street that runs past Bega Park to Bega Street in time to greet visitors from that Australian city during Western Welcome Week.

Under the plan, the block of Rio Grande Street that connects Main Street and Alamo Avenue

would be renamed.

Littleton has enjoyed a 52-year alliance with Bega, established by former Littleton Independent publisher Houstoun Waring and Curly Annabel, the editor of a newspaper in Bega.

According to the program’s website at begalittleton.org, the U.S. State Department and U.S. Information Agency in 1951 made “Small Town Editor,” a film they showed in foreign countries to encourage an independent press to compete with government-controlled news. It was filmed in Littleton and featured Waring, who had achieved national recognition

POSTAL ADDRESS

for his editorials on foreign affairs.

Annabel saw the film and was entranced by the similarities between the towns and their newspapers. He reached out, and a friendship was born that became formalized in 1961 with the establishment of a federal sister-city program. Residents have taken turns visiting each other ever since — Littleton sends a delegation to Bega in the first and sixth years of the decade, and Bega citizens visit Littleton in the third and eighth years.

This year, the 11th Bega Bega continues on Page 21

The Littleton/Bega Sister City Exchange is gearing up for this year’s visit. Shown here is the 2008 Bega contingent in the park named in their city’s honor. Courtesy photo

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2-Color

2 The Independent

July 11, 2013

Love planted in Colorado sprouts in Africa On an unseasonably cold April day three years ago, snow broke from the sky and chilled business for a Castle Rock garage sale. But high school student Hanna Tenerowicz and her friends in the French Honor Society slapped high fives in jubilation.

They had raised $150, enough to pay for two Congolese girls to stay in school another year and lessen their risk of being married at 13 or 14 in exchange for money to feed their families.

“They were just so excited that we raised enough to sponsor a girl,” said Anne Damanti, Hanna’s French teacher at Castle View High School.

But Hanna, 19, a wisp of a young woman who just completed her freshman year at Wellesley College near Boston, wants to do more.

Two weeks ago she left for the Democratic Republic of Congo to document the lives of schoolgirls, bring back their hopes and ideas for community transformation, and establish connections to help those dreams come true.

“Gender equality makes a difference,” Hanna, whose soft voice conveys conviction with quiet, deep passion, said before leaving. “It’s a domino effect on all kinds of things.”

The story of how this came to be — that a girl so shy Anne often couldn’t hear her speak in class has grown into a young woman daring to change lives — converges on a shared connection to the French language and a motivation to help.

It is a story of compassion, determination and, quite simply, courage. Because it takes bravery to stretch beyond the familiar, to push cultural boundaries, to try to make a difference in a world so big and complicated we sometimes wonder whether what we do matters.

Finally, perhaps most importantly, it is a story of empowerment.

And it begins with Sandra Bea, who emigrated to Colorado in 2001 from the French-speaking D.R. Congo to continue her studies in education. A French teacher, she graduated from Metropolitan State University of Denver and today is dean of

students at Global Village Academy, a language immersion school in Denver.

The daughter of an engineer of a local mining company in Mbuji-Mayi, the country’s third largest city, Sandra grew up without worries: “I was eating three times a day; I went to school with a car. I grew up really easily. It was not hard like the other girls are facing right now. We never had any conversation about `You are going to get married in two days because we don’t have the money.’”

It wasn’t until she was 22 and student teaching in her former high school that she understood the reality. Every two weeks, it seemed, another student would leave.

They were, she learned, getting married.

“Why?” she asked.

“Because, Madam, we are not like you,” they told her. “You can afford it. We cannot afford it.”

“That,” Sandra said, “broke my heart.”

So, four years ago, she founded the nonprofit Muanjadi Organization, a women’s empowerment project that helps girls complete their high school education and avoid early arranged marriages.

“For many parents in the Congo, marrying off their daughters constitutes a source of revenue in a country where people live with less than $1 a day with a GDP per capita of $300,” Sandra writes on the organization’s website.

Through fundraising and donations, the organization — whose name means Brave Woman — provides tuition and supplies for girls in seventh through 12th grades at the same school Sandra attended.

Cost for one girl for one year of high school: $75.

Cost for one year of college: $350.

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dra and learned about Muanjadi at a state world language conference three years ago.

She brought the idea back to her French Honor Society, which was looking for a community service project.

Students learned how most girls eat just one meal a day and how the school has no water or electricity. They compared the cost of one year of high school to what teens here might spend on fancy jeans or a Starbucks coffee habit. “That’s not a lot to have the freedom to actually go to school and try to be something,” Anne said.

That, Hanna said, coupled with the specter of forced marriage, “was a pretty powerful thing to learn about.”

Last school year, Muanjadi sponsored 100 girls, 11 of them thanks to Castle View.

The honor society, which has corresponded with the girls through letters, phone and Skype, also is sponsoring a student in college — one of the girls it began sponsoring in high school three years ago. Other organization sponsors include Kent Denver Academy, Metro State, Colorado State University, a lawyers’ organization and many individuals and families.

But Hanna hopes to take the program one step further.

Her new project is Portrait of a Brave Woman. Accompanied by Sandra, she has spent the past two weeks interviewing — in French — and filming girls at the school about their lives, but also about their ideas to implement change in their communities.

She plans to share the mini-documentaries with artists who will be encouraged to create paintings about a particular girl whose story connects with them. Proceeds from the sale of those paintings will go toward the girls’ personal and community goals, such as becoming a nurse or training midwives to decrease the high infant mortality rate.

The objectives are several: to empower Congolese girls, improve their communities and create meaningful cross-cultural connections with Western artists and

buyers.

“I hope community improvement brought about by women’s ideas will help to create more positive and respectful attitudes towards women in Mbuji-Mayi,” Hanna, also an artist, said. And “I hope the project empowers the girls themselves by helping them to personally make a difference.”

Her dream is unquestionably big.

But, Anne said, “There is nothing, anymore, that she can’t do.”

Hanna’s visit, Sandra said, is the concrete realization of what dreams and hard work can accomplish. And having someone their age talk to them and share ideas with them is inspirational: “You don’t know me, but you came to give me a chance to become someone.”

Which is exactly what Hanna wanted to do after reading “Half the Sky,” a book about the oppression of women and girls in the developing world.

“It really changed my outlook on the world,” she said. “I was really interested in doing whatever I could to make a difference.”

Hanna returns this week with her videos and interviews and dream.

“I’m definitely prepared for this to change my life,” she said before leaving.

Without a doubt, it will. But, in a school half a world away, girls are surely changed, too, because a stranger from a different life cared enough to learn about theirs.

That’s empowerment. The kind that makes a difference.

To learn more about Hanna Tenerowicz and Portrait of a Brave Woman, go to www. muanjadi.blogspot.com. For information about the Muanjadi Organization, go to www.muanjadi.org.

Ann Macari Healey’s column about people, places and issues of everyday life appears every other week. She can be reached at ahealey@ourcoloradonews.com or 303-5664110.

3-Color

The Independent 3

July 11, 2013

Riding for a reason Amputee seeks to help baby by bicycling across U.S.

By Jennifer Smith

jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com Hector Picard stood in what he once referred to as a torture chamber on July 1 and talked about his redemption.

Twenty years ago, Picard ended up at a HealthSouth rehabilitation hospital in Florida similar to the one that recently opened in Littleton. The facility on Mineral Avenue was a stop on his 3,274-mile journey from Miami to Spokane to prove people who are missing limbs can overcome. And he wants to help one little guy in particular do just that.

Baby Jameson Davis was born April 12 of last year with no arms below the elbow. Along his journey, Picard is accepting donations to help Jameson’s family with the $1.3 million it will take to keep him in prosthetic arms for the next 18 years.

“Jameson was born with no hands or forearms, but a wonderful smile and a zest for life,” says Picard. “Due to the high cost of prosthetics, the Davises are struggling to provide Jameson with the latest technology to afford him the same opportunities every able-bodied child deserves.”

Picard says he just wants to show Jameson that once upon a time, somebody just like him did something that only a few people have done.

In 1992, Picard was an electrician.

He made the tragic mistake of climbing the wrong transformer on a job site one day. He caught fire, fell two stories and woke up in a hospital a month later missing one arm and half of the other.

“Why me?” he wondered at the time. “I lived a good life, I was a good person, I helped people. So why did this have to happen to me?”

It was a hard path from there to today, but he set out with resolve.

“I use one word to describe my experience in rehab: torture,” he said.

“But it was all in hopes of getting my

LITTLETON NEWS IN A HURRY Kids golf for free

South Suburban Parks and Recreation is waiving greens fees during the summer on weekend evenings at all its courses for kids age 17 and younger.

South Suburban is the only metro-area park and recreation provider that allows kids to play for free without an accompanying paying adult. For more information, visit www. sspr.org.

Hospital earns kudos

Hector Picard, the first double arm amputee Iron Man, demonstrates his prosthetic arm for patients at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Center. Photo by Jennifer Smith life back and being a husband and father to my child.”

His kids have been a huge motivation, he said. When babies cry, they want to be held, fed or have a new diaper — all of which take hands. Of course, Picard had to figure out how to feed and clothe and do things for himself, too.

“I just have obstacles,” he said.

“We stop ourselves from realizing our goals, because we just have dumb ideas.”

To say he overcame them is putting it mildly. In 2009, he ran his first triathlon. Last month, he finished his 75th. In August 2012, he became the first double-arm amputee Iron Man, with 18 minutes to spare. The same year, he cycled 1,500 miles from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., to New York City to celebrate the 20th anniversary of his second chance at life.

He did it all with the help of his prosthetic arm, which not only responds to electrical impulses in his arm to help him do normal hand things, but also spins completely around a la The Exorcist kid.

“Coolest bar trick ever,” he said. “I

think of it as a tool versus my hand. I’ll never get my hand back.”

David Shefte, CEO of HealthSouth, kicked in a check for $10,000 toward baby Jameson’s future arms.

“Picard is an inspiration to not only our employees, but also to our patients who are recovering,” he said.

Those patients include Thornton resident Eddie Lindhorst, who nearly lost his leg in a motorcycle accident in Florida.

“I went there to do yoga, get centered and drop some weight, and I end up wrecking a motorcycle, and boom,” he said. Six years and 59 surgeries later, he’s still in and out of rehab.

“People say I’m an inspiration,” he said. “I don’t get it. It’s just doing the next right thing. God’s not done with me yet.”

Lindhorst is even more inspired by people who are even worse off — kids in burn units and their families, for example.

“Somebody out there would like to have my problems, so it’s all relative,” he said.

For more information or to donate, visit www.dontstopliving.org.

Littleton Adventist Hospital is a recipient of the Healthgrades 2013 Women’s Health Excellence Award, ranking in the top 10 percent of hospitals in the nation for its treatment of women’s health issues.

The 2013 Women’s Health Excellence Awards are presented to the top 176 hospitals out of 4,783 across the country. These hospitals excel in the treatment of women in a variety of specialties, as measured by in-hospital complication and mortality rates across 15 of the most common hospital-based conditions and procedures.

Heads up, liquor establishments

Throughout the summer, the Littleton Police Department will conduct alcohol and tobacco compliance checks. LPD periodically conducts these checks on businesses that sell alcohol and tobacco to make sure they are in compliance with the laws regarding sales to underage people. These businesses include convenience stores, liquor stores, gas stations, bars, restaurants, and grocery stores.

LPD recruits underage

volunteers, with their parents’ permission, to go into the establishments and attempt to purchase either tobacco or alcohol. If the purchase is completed, the employee, store manager, or store owner can be cited or arrested for the violation. If no citation is issued, LPD sends the business a letter advising them of the results of the investigation.

Historically, LPD has found the majority of businesses refuse to make the sale.

SSPR awards grants

South Suburban Parks and Recreation has announced the recipients of its Matching Gifts Program, which allows partner organizations to help improve parks, facilities and programs.

Projects selected this year include the completion of the planting of crabapple trees along the Crabapple Route at Sterne, Ketring, Gallup, Little’s Creek, Carbone, Footbridge and Charlie Emley parks; enhanced maintenance of a soccer field at Cornerstone Park; a repair to the scoreboard deck and TV installation and outdoor bar extension at Lone Tree Golf Club; planting of five trees on the Foxridge greenbelt; the improvement of an existing dirt path to a trail in the Foxridge neighborhood; the purchase of two-way radios and headsets and a laptop for Franklin Pool; a sound system for swim meets and a permanent display case for Holly Pool; kiln repair and kiln furniture for the pottery studio; landscaping at The Knolls’ clubhouse; and planting two pine trees and adding a crusher-fine trail to the Tiffany neighborhood’s sidewalks.

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4-Color

4 The Independent

July 11, 2013

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LPS hoped to delay bond request Aging buildings require action now, officials say

By Jennifer Smith

jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com Diane Doney, chief operating officer of Littleton Public Schools, says a recent audit of the district’s facilities revealed the likely need to go to voters for an $80 million bond issue this year, rather than waiting until 2014 as originally planned.

“We’re spending down this year on roofs, but pretty soon, we’re going to have to decide to do something,” she told the board of education on June 27.

Surveying the needs of the district was led by volunteer David Metcalf, who worked on LPS bond elections in 2002 and 1995.

“The whole idea is to keep moving to keep the district competitive,” he told the board. “We need to make sure the buildings stay up to date with our academic standards.”

Doney said a recent community survey showed that’s a high priority for district residents. They placed high value on maintaining a safe learning environment while preparing kids for jobs of the future.

“Our community wants our students to be ready to compete out there in the marketplace,” she said.

Superintendent Scott Murphy has said the time is right to take advantage of low interest rates for what amounts to refinancing a mortgage — not a tax increase, he emphasizes.

LPS has historically put a bond issue on the ballot every seven to 10 years; it’s been 11 since the last one. With the average age of the buildings around 50 years, there’s a lot of work to be done.

Doney said the exact list of needs compiled by Metcalf’s committee isn’t quite

ready to be released, but it’s extensive.

“I think we’re above that $80 million mark already,” she said.

The board is scheduled to vote on whether to go forward on Aug. 8. A bond issue would strictly be used for building maintenance and basic infrastructure such as sewer lines, gym floors, furnaces and electrical systems.

Metcalf said the committee has spent a lot of time making sure projects get done efficiently.

“We need to see how they’re all going to go together and make sure we don’t open the ceiling four times for four different things,” said Metcalf.

Murphy stresses that a proposed statewide $1.1 billion tax increase for education — planned to be on the ballot this fall — has absolutely nothing to do with this local question, and that it does nothing to address capital improvements.

“Whether people say yes or no to the state issue has nothing to do with the buildings,” he said. “This is totally a community issue.”

A bond is not a tax, rather more like a loan that has to be repaid with interest.

As with raising taxes, government entities need voter permission to accrue large amounts of debt.

The last time LPS went to the voters was in 2010, when they passed a $12 million mill-levy override, or property-tax increase.

That money has maintained the district’s current level of service, despite decreases in state and federal funding. It will likely be several years until another there’s another one.

“I call it the ‘Mr. and Mrs. Citizen test,’” said Jim Woods, the district’s outreach coordinator, stressing the need to put forth credible evidence. “We can’t delay. We don’t know what the circumstances will be in 2014, either.”

Council halts chemical monitoring Contamination declining at Reynolds Landing site

By Jennifer Smith

jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com Littleton City Council voted unanimously July 2 to stop monitoring contamination on a small piece of open space it owns near the South Platte River.

Charlie Blosten, the city’s director of public works, said the levels now meet minimum requirements on the .24-acre portion of Reynolds Landing, but it will take about 20 years for them to reach zero. With the cost to monitor the levels at about $20,000 a year, stopping will save the city about $400,000.

The entire 22-acre site between the river and Meadowood Village mobile homes on Santa Fe Drive was a construction company’s storage lot for more than 50 years. Underground gasoline tanks leaked benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes and methyl tertiary butyl ether.

The city and South Suburban Parks and Recreation each own about half the site, and the contaminated area straddles the boundary.

They removed the tanks and took other

steps to remediate the property. Blosten said the environmental engineer the city hired found no evidence the river was affected and has indicated there’s nothing left to do but wait for zero.

Council’s vote approved a covenant with SSPR that forbids either party from excavating or building without notifying the other, but Blosten said a path or fence could be safely installed without disturbing what chemicals remain deep underground. Because city ordinance prohibits building on open space, it would only become an issue if the property is ever sold. That would require a vote of the people.

Councilman Bruce Beckman was concerned that if they approved the covenant, the issue would fall off the radar.

“I’m not sure that’s responsible behavior for a public entity alongside the river,” he said.

Resident Leah Burkett wondered if the site could be checked periodically rather than stopping altogether.

“It’s not required, and it’s not necessary, but it can be done,” said Blosten. “It’s extremely expensive.”

Mayor Debbie Brinkman pointed out it’s highly unlikely the chemical levels would rise, since the source was the gasoline tanks that are now gone.

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llion

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The Independent 5

July 11, 2013

Fireworks crew lights up sky

Pyrotechnicians spend hours e on bond preparing for 20-minute show

ding suchBy Tom Munds andtmunds@ourcoloradonews.com

ent a While people in nearby parks relaxed, doneplayed games or prepared picnic meals, a half-dozen individuals were hard at work ng towiring and loading the shells for the fireopenworks show that was part of the July 4 festierentval at Cornerstone and Belleview parks.

The main platform for the show was a tate-40-foot flatbed trailer. The crew had set up uca-the firing tubes on the trailer and, on July 4, s fallthey were following the script as they conthisnected one end of a pair of wires to each ng toshell and the other ends to a specified terminal on the bank of terminals mounted o thevertically on the side of the trailer. uild- “Each tube has a number and the script unitytells the crew what shell to load into the tube and what terminal to wire it to,” said ike aLes Naok, a retired pyrotechnician helping erest.with setup. “All the shell terminals are conenti-nected to one of two control boards. When largetime comes for the show, the script sets the order and which switches to flip to set off s wasthe proper fireworks for that portion of the llionshow.” ease. He noted that, in addition to the tubes, rict’sthere are a number of shot boxes that are easespart of the show. ly be “Each shot box contains 100 shells,” other

Eddie Hoenighausen connects wires to a five-inch fireworks shell before loading it into a tube for the July 4 festival and fireworks show at Belleview and Cornerstone parks. Hoenighausen is part of a local crew hired by Oklahoma-based Western Enterprises to prepare and put on the fireworks display. Photo by Tom Munds Naok said. “The shells are timed to go off all at once or to go off in sequence. Some of the shot boxes are wired with one of the larger shells so, as the shot box goes off, so does the larger shell if fired too in order to provide added fun to the show.”

He said the schedule called for about 2,500 shells to be set off for the July 4 fireworks show. The individual shells ranged from three inches to five inches in diameter.

Each shell is shaped like an ice cream cone. The cone area is the explosive to push the shell about 100 feet up in the air.

The fuse continues to burn and, at the top of the arc, the shell explodes to provide the displays of various colors in a variety of shapes.

Naok, an Englewood resident, has been working on the local fireworks show since he helped put on the fireworks show in 1966

that fired the shells out over the lake at Centennial Park.

“Back then, everything was loaded by hand and the fuses were lit by hand, so it was a lot harder to put on a show. We took precautions like storing all the shells in metal garbage cans and making sure all the sparks were out before we loaded the next shell into the tubes that were mounted in the ground,” he said. “But those shows were less exact and more dangerous. Today’s shows are electronically fired. The timing can be more precise and putting on a show is a lot less dangerous.”

Organizers for the July 4 event contract with Western Entertainment, a company based in Oklahoma to put on the fireworks display.

The company then contracts with the team of local pyrotechnicians to prepare and fire off the show. Naok said all the crew members live in the Englewood or Littleton area and most of them only do the one show a year.

“The crew spends a lot of hours on this show,” Naok said.

“The team has to spend a number of hours the day before the show loading all the equipment and material on the truck.

The day of the show, it takes hours to wire up and load all the shells. Then, the day after, it is cleanup and then returning all the equipment to the warehouse. It’s a lot of work but it is also fun to be able to set of all these fireworks and light up the skies.”

Irish festival returns to Clement Park FounTain oF youTh

est,’” h coforthBands, dancers, athletes take don’t be in part in three-day gathering

Staff report

g

Clement Park is gearing up to go green July 12-14 for the 19th Annual Colorado Irish Festival, which is offering two chances ostento get in free this year. city The first is July 12 from 5 to 6 p.m. to help s af-kick off the event. The second is for July 14 g leftearly risers, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Proving that the festival celebrates all aspects of Irish withheritage, the faithful can participate in a avat-traditional Catholic Mass at 9 a.m. that day, ther,as well. d be International acts including Gaelic whatStorm, Seven Nations, The Elders and The . Be-Fighting Jamesons will join more than 20 log oncal bands on three stages to perform tradiissuetional Irish music and contemporary Gaelic d re-rock. Gaelic Storm was featured in James Cameron’s blockbuster hit “Titanic” as the con-band playing in the ship’s steerage area, and nant,organizers are excited to have them back.

“They and our other national acts play aviorto crowds of thousands around the country, ,” heand folks can see them here, in a very intimate setting, for only $15,” said entertainf thement coordinator Bill O’Donnell. “Festival atherattendees are going to see some fantastic performances for a price they cannot get sary, s ex-

anywhere else.”

New this year is the Paddy’O, a VIP tent featuring a private bar, snacks, restrooms and the opportunity to interact with members of the performing acts between sets.

Competition will be a theme, with step dancing at Columbine High School and sports throughout the weekend. The Gaelic Games feature football, hurling and camogie, three sports that are deeply ingrained in Gaelic culture and combine elements of soccer, lacrosse, hockey and basketball, says Greg Phelan of the Denver Gaels football team.

“The festival is an opportunity for us to showcase these sports, and the great spirit of competition that accompanies them, to the Colorado community,” said Phelan.

All proceeds from the Colorado Irish Festival will be donated to the Colorado United Irish Societies (CUIS), a Denver-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting Irish culture and businesses across Colorado.

“Young, old, Irish or not, everyone is invited to share in the festivities, food and fun, and contribute to a great cause while doing it,” said Shelly O’Hara, event planner for the CUIS. Clement Park is at the intersection of West Bowles Avenue and South Pierce Street in unincorporated Jefferson County.

For more information, visit www.colorado irishfestival.org.

Time to dig out the corncob pipe

ut it’s ould anksTurkey

Leg and Wine Hoedown ready to roll

By Jennifer Smith

jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com “The Turkey Leg and Wine Hoedown is back bigger, badder and stronger,” says Greg Reinke, president of the Historic Downtown Littleton Merchants. “Bring the family, listen to the music and have a great time.”

Yes, you read that right. Turkey Leg and Wine Hoedown. And this year, there will even be good wine, not just Manischewitz, says Reinke, and Fat Tire and Blue Moon in addition to Schlitz, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Coors and Coors Light.

The Daisy Duke girls will be back to serve up the libations out of their wheelbarrows, or visit the statuesque servers up in the Amazon Tree House.

The concept for the hoedown evolved in 2011 after Reinke heard some complaints that people who like “turkey-leg events” might not be the best clientele to attract to downtown Littleton. He thought it was hilarious, and the rest is history.

The menu, of course, features turkey legs

— two kinds this year, both smoked and Louisiana deep-fried. Sides include corn on the cob and individual servings of EZ Mac. The appetizer is Cheez Whiz on crackers, and dessert is pecan pie on a stick. All can be purchased as a meal or a la carte.

New this year are the bands: Ken K cranking out classic rock, and Brian Parton, former lead singer of Mad Dog and the Smokin’ Js, belting out rockabilly.

The $3 cover charge includes all the entertainment you can stand, including tubing on the Lazy River, Frozen Turkey Bowling (on a real bowling-alley lane), Little People’s Paddle Boat Pond, Dunk-a-Merchant and more.

Reinke says suggested attire is Daisy Dukes for the ladies and bib overalls with no shirt for the guys, and everyone who arrives in character gets $1 off admission. The general store will be open in case you run out of chewin’ grass or corncob pipes.

“It’s a fun, middle-of-summer event because you can dress down and just have a good time,” he said.

The event is July 19 and July 20, 6-11 p.m. in the Reinke Bros. parking lot, 5665 S. Prince St. For more information, contact 303-795-5006 or info@downtownlittleton. com.

Jersey Babb, 6, shows off her best karate moves in the fountain at The Streets at SouthGlenn on July 7. According to Babb’s mother, Jacque Babb, the Centennial girl’s interest in martial arts was inspired by her older brother.

While pools and lakes were crowded over the July 4 holiday weekend, many Centennial residents made their way to local parks and spraygrounds as a way to beat the heat. Photo by Deborah Grigsby

6-Opinion

6 The Independent

July 11, 2013

opinions / yours and ours

Not only a time to vote, consider serving OK, it sounds hokey, but we believe it.

The city council and school board elections coming up this fall — always on the uneven years — feature democracy at its best.

These nonpartisan races basically involve folks who want to make a difference, and the fact that most of these positions involve little or no compensation is evidence enough.

We admire the people in this group of roughly 1,500 elected officials in Colorado because public service is one of the highest callings. And as this annual event shapes up, we like to see candidates in all races.

Uncontested races simply don’t provide the choices voters should have or the valuable discourse that comes from competition.

We encourage citizens who observe vacant races in their districts and cities to

our view

take a look in the mirror, think about stepping up, or think about asking someone else to step up. Some of the best elected officials are the ones who were recognized by others for their skills, energy and insights and then urged to run. When three or four people think a neighbor has a lot to offer, it’s time to make a phone call or knock on a door. Be bold.

For those who run, we have a few friendly reminders. The odd years are the nonpartisan years. By state law, city coun-

question of the week

How do you stay cool?

With temps well into the 80s, Colorado Community Media surveyed four people at Lone Tree’s Sweetwater Park on the Fourth of July about their preferred way to beat the heat.

“A frozen pina colada.”

— Claudia Lopez, Lone Tree

“I take my kids and go to the pool at Lifetime Fitness.”

— Doug Hecox, Acres Green

“Ice cream.”

— Oksana Menagh, Acres Green

“I burn easily so I definitely try not to be in the sun. I stay in air conditioning or the shade of a tree.”

— Janet Day, Centennial

cil, school board and special districts are nonpartisan. Although it is handy to team with their parties, we urge candidates to honor the nonpartisan framework, and we urge voters to assess candidates by looking at their character, skills and drive — not party affiliation.

The late statesman Ted Strickland of Adams County once told us that the most important asset of an elected official is an open mind. To that point we do like candidates who work hard to keep learning and stay close to the pulse of a community — continually checking in with constituents and not making assumptions.

And to the voters, remember to look for balance, look at your boards and council and think about what is missing. What is needed — an attorney, an engineer, a shop owner? And — not to discriminate but to

Veterans deserve fast claims The Department of Veterans Affairs needs a watchdog. This is the single most important thing I have learned since joining the House Veterans Affairs Committee in January. The Committee must stay vigilant because, if not, the VA will not perform up to the level the Congress expects and veterans deserve.

As the chairman of the Oversight and Investigation Subcommittee, I have been shocked at the level of bureaucratic incompetence the VA has shown in their ability to reduce the disability claims backlog.

Although their reported goal is to have average wait times of 125 days per claim by 2015, the current reality is that many veterans wait an average of 270-plus days

Ninety-year old Constance Rolon cried when Denver police officers welcomed her back into her home. Constance had been taken to a motel by the officers two weeks earlier because they determined that her house was uninhabitable.

I have seen this before. My good friend Ruth Todd lost her husband and most of her five senses, and housework didn’t get done.

Constance’s daughter died, and her son Paul vanished 13 years ago. A 2001 Westword article, “Home Alone,” details Paul’s mysterious disappearance when he was vacationing in Crete. Constance’s caregiver was gone.

Little by little, her home went undone.

Ruth’s home went that way too.

Ruth was 96 when she died in a hospice, and thinking we were married. Relatives were anxious for her money, but not to help out with her estate.

Ruth’s brilliant paintings went to the Kirkland Museum. Her furniture was sold or donated. The rest, including an empty bowling ball bag, went into one of the two dumpsters that I filled.

Ruth spent a lot of time in ambulances near the end of her life. She always took her resume with her.

She was a beautiful New York model in the 1920s and 30s, and by the time she turned 87, when I met her, she was an invisible woman.

When police officers made a welfare check on Constance they couldn’t get in the front door. “Trash and tangled possessions” blocked them. There were cats.

Aren’t there always cats?

Ruth had a cat named Sweet Pea. Sweet Pea was attached to Ruth and to no one else. Ruth had one cat after another. In succession, they showed up at her back door. Ruth let one in, and it stayed with her for the rest of its life. Then another one showed up.

“How terribly strange to be 70.” Simon and Garfunkel wrote that. I am a handful of years away from being strange. The truth is that I have been strange all along.

No one wants to get older. We lose things and forget things. The crisp young woman who walked the high school halls is long gone. We can no longer talk like we

once did. Words become wickets. No one pays attention to us. No one flirts.

Ruth and I went grocery shopping. It took two hours. She held up the grapes.

She looked at vegetables like she might be seeing them for the last time.

“At roll call, I told the guys what I needed and they all volunteered and took a chore,” said Sgt. Kim Lovato of the District 1 station.” The officers replaced carpet and painted Constance’s walls. They took care of the cats.

Ruth bent over to pick up a piece of paper on her front porch. She broke her hip, and didn’t come home for 40 days.

She didn’t think she would ever come home. So I went to her house and took pictures. Sweet Pea showed up, out of nowhere, and she let me take a picture of her.

I took the pictures to the nursing home and Ruth couldn’t stop crying. Then she held me.

If 70 is strange, what is 90? I’m not sure I want to find out. Beautiful lives sometimes fade without grace. I looked at my father in a Michigan hospital and wanted him to come back and play catch with me. But he couldn’t do anything on his own. He couldn’t even talk with me.

We see each other with quiet familiarity. But some of us are floating away while we’re still here, and go unnoticed.

Ruth used to say, “Take me to Dr. Kevorkian.” There were days, when nothing on her worked, that I wish I could have.

“Bless your hearts, thank you, thank you,” Constance said to the officers.

“We are such stuff as dreams are made on.” — The Tempest, Act 4, scene 1.

Craig Marshall Smith is an artist, educator and Highlands Ranch resident. He can be reached at craigmarshallsmith@comcast. net

before their claim is processed.

I have little hope that this department will reach its 2015 goal of reducing the average wait time to 125 days because the VA has not laid out intermediate metrics Coffman continues on Page 7

letter to the editor Change in outlook needed for Littleton

Flesh is weak, spirit isn’t far behind

diversify — if all the members of the board have the same first digit in their ages, maybe older or younger representatives would improve the representative mix.

Sam Mamet, longtime executive director of the Colorado Municipal League, which interacts with 60-70 cities around the state, often emphasizes how rewarding public service is and tells those who serve that they will look back and feel good about at least one thing they had a hand in — perhaps nobody will remember what you did, but “you’ll know” he says. And of course the act of simply contributing — recognized or not — is reward for the soul.

For the most part, candidates in school board and city council races simply want to do something to better their communities. That’s good stuff. Be part of it one way or the other.

What a sad commentary on the lack of imagination and civic spirit in Littleton as reflected in Jim Wood’s letter, published in the June 27 Independent.

It’s precisely this mulish thinking that has led to stagnation of Littleton’s economic progress and the city’s reputation as a difficult venue in which to do business.

Tax incentives have been demonstrated to be effective, whether setting the tone for favorable business growth or attracting businesses. We presume in Littleton that’s a combination of location, demographic mix and potential.

The belief that “Littleton does not need to be like everybody else” hurts Littleton’s ability to prosper as a community, both economically and culturally. That antique mindset has permeated City Hall, and to a great extent civic engagement and involvement. As a result, we have a constant shallow group of naysayers opposing the private ventures that would propel the city into better times — the housing complex

The Independent

on Littleton Boulevard and South Bemis Street, the ideas for the Marathon property, and the redevelopment of Columbine Square at West Belleview and South Federal.

Add to that the same shallow naysayers’ ill-conceived scheme about changes to the city charter to impact zoning decisions, and the beliefs demonstrated by the Sunshine Boys that Littleton deserves to remain in a 1952 state of suspended animation. It’s a wonder Littleton continues to attract businesses and young families.

One final note — Mr. Woods was the former city manager. Perhaps with a new city manager the city council felt it had the support and enthusiasm to encourage a business such as Breckenridge Brewery to locate in Littleton. That certainly was demonstrated in the council’s action to approve a comprehensive economic plan, another affirmative step to boost the city’s fortunes and end the stagnation.

Pete Webb Littleton resident

Colorado Community Media

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Phone 303-566-4100 • Fax 303-566-4098

gerard heaLey President and Publisher

Columnists and guest commentaries

ChrIS rOTar Editor SCOTT gILBerT Assistant Editor jennIfer SmITh Community Editor erIn addenBrOOke Advertising Director mICheLe aPOdaCa Sales Executive audrey BrOOkS Business Manager SCOTT andrewS Creative Services Manager Sandra areLLanO Circulation Director We welcome event listings and other submissions. news and Business Press releases Please visit ourcoloradonews.com, click on the Press releases tab and follow easy instructions to make submissions.

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The Independent features a limited number of regular columnists, found on these pages and elsewhere in the paper, depending on the typical subject the columnist covers. Their opinions are not necessarily those of the Independent.

Want your own chance to bring an issue to our readers’ attention, to highlight something great in our community, or just to make people laugh? Why not write a letter of 300 words or fewer. Include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

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After all, the Independent is your paper.

7

The Independent 7

July 11, 2013

g Stillness, quiet rejuvenate the soul

I had three unplanned days off recently.

Back spasms brought my busy schedule to a screeching halt. The Lord was seris ous when he inspired the words that King ec- David wrote in the 23rd Psalm, “I will make thee lie down in green pastures.” I even d had to find a replacement for a wedding I d- was to officiate.

The older I get, the more I recognize o that these times often precede specially good blessed, extra-productive times. They set d what me up for success. That’s hard to believe d of for those of us who have lived by the motto, “The harder I work the luckier I get.”

— In his book, “Margin,” Dr. Richard oul.

Swenson illustrates the necessity of restful ool nt times. Imagine how difficult it would be to uni- read a book with no margins — no white way space, he writes. When every inch of a page is filled with words, all the way to the edge, reading is difficult, stressful and tiring.

Many people live with no margin in their lives — every waking moment of every day is filled with activity and stimulation. I sometimes get stuck in that pattern.

But, what is “margin”? Not all recreation qualifies as margin. The stress of vacation is different than work and often worth the effort, but too often it is far from restful.

oard

In order for a person to experience re-creation there needs to be stillness and quiet. Eugene Peterson, the author of “The Message,” a paraphrase of the Bible, once said, “A busy mind never thinks deep thoughts.” I heard this years ago when I was learning the art of stillness by visiting a Catholic monastery in Conyers, Ga. The quiet retreat, whether it was for a half-day or a day and a half, was a welcome sabbatical. My brain activity calmed down so my thought process was more thorough and focused.

Every week our churches invite people to rest and experience re-creation. Come and sit still, take a deep breath, think introspective thoughts, worship an awesome God and discover how much of your bur-

den He wants to remove from your shoulders or how He will help you carry it. Tap into His resourcefulness for your needs or His gift of new opportunities. In a variety of ways, the churches speak the message of Jesus, “Come all you who are weary and heavy burdened and I will give you rest.”

Cultivating the discipline to come and be still, quiet and listen helps us incorporate the experience into our daily lives.

In my slower, restful, injured mode I meditated, prayed more and felt more deeply. Surprisingly, unpleasant circumstances often produce the opportunity for stillness.

The white space between jobs can be a painful time of fear and need, but it can also be a time to listen, think and get ready for a new chapter of life, a new idea to pursue and a new energy for new relationships and a fresh setting.

My friend Darryl Chaney, whom I wrote about in the book “Welcome to the Big Leagues,” every season but one, had a oneyear contract. Each December he had to be still and wait for the front-office people to decide his worth during their winter meetings and mail him a contract. The waiting became part of his character development

and preparation for a new season.

What seems like the worst possible thing, a terminal illness, brings what is normal to a sudden stop and the need to face difficult questions. As a hospice chaplain I have observed people who have faced this chapter of their lives with intentionality, purpose and grace.

They allowed the hospice staff to take the burden off of their family and help them be comfortable so they could write the most important chapter of life and finish spiritual work, pass the blessing to the children and grandchildren, mend fences and savor the experiences, relationships and memories that made their life meaningful.

Planned or unplanned, temporary or permanent, times of stillness should be maximized so we can experience re-creation for our souls.

Dan Hettinger is director of pastoral services at Hospice of Saint John and president of The Jakin Group, a ministry of encouragement, especially to Christian workers.

You can email him at dhettinger@hospice ofsaintjohn.org or dan@welcometothebig leagues.org.

Don’t let a single second go unappreciated

Have you ever paid attention when someone is counting for a specific purpose or during a game or competition, and as they near the point of where they are counting towards, there is a discernable difference in the tonality and pace? If they are counting to 10 for instance it may age 7 sound something like 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 888, 999999, 10.

What is it about the approach to those final numbers that has us draw them out, elongate them for dramatic purposes? We could be counting to 10, 50, 100, or any number for that matter, and just as we get close for some reason we end up with 95, 96, 9777, 988888, 999999999, 100. It’s not even the final number that gets the extra emphasis, I mean when we hit 10 or 100 we just say that number sharply and crisply, with absolute finality.

It even happens when we do a countdown and reverse the order, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 333, 222222, 1111111, 0! Almost as if we are trying to extend or expand a timed event or task. I know it makes it fun during games and competitions, especially when we are surrounded by our friends and fam-

Coffman Continued from Page 6

between now and 2015 that show how it will reach its goals. A recent Government Accountability Office report, in response to the VA’s 2015 goal, concluded that “this plan lacks any metrics or deadlines to ensure these goals are met.”

In a May letter to the president, I, along with over 160 members of the House, expressed our dismay with the lack of progress in the backlog. We wrote, “This country must be grateful for the safe homecoming of every single man and woman who has served in harm’s way. Our joy in their return must be reflected in our commitment to helping all who have served.”

I lay the responsibility of the likely failure of the VA’s backlog plan at the feet of Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki.

Although Congress has allocated a huge 40 percent increase in the VA’s budget at a time when other agency budgets are being slashed, the backlog is growing rather than shrinking. The VA lacks effective leadership, not inadequate resources. The secretary must be more forceful in shaking up the status quo.

The issues with the claims backlog, as with Gulf War illness research, hospital construction and cyber security, are not funding-related; rather it is a cultural problem within the department that must be fixed. I know firsthand that the VA does not answer my inquiries in a timely manner and too often I hear from veteran service organizations and individual veterans that

ily and enjoying our time together.

I like those other numbers too, all of those in-between numbers. I like thinking about how I can make every second count.

There are 86,400 seconds in each day, and it’s the same for each and every one of us.

During a recent workout I noticed that I was actually counting my repetitions in much the same way I described above.

Particularly when I was doing a particular exercise and had to hold a position for a specified period of time. As I was counting down in my head and neared the number zero, I literally found myself extending the final numbers just so I could work a little harder. Of course, I could have just as eas-

the VA is not responsive to their questions as well.

Often times, my Oversight hearings become embattled stalemates between my subcommittee and representatives from the VA until witnesses are forced to answer questions from members.

Unfortunately, the answers usually confirm my pre-existing belief that the VA has acted wrongly either intentionally or incompetently. Either way, a disappointing pattern has emerged that we must change.

For this reason, I have supported strong actions like suspending bonuses for VA employees, and I have joined Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California in legislation that would create a commission to implement recommendations from the Government Accountability Office that will help reduce the claims processing time. Further, I have instituted a post-traumatic stress working group with Sen. Mark Udall to look for ways the VA can help treat veterans with PTSD and whether the VA can alter its claims process to better fit the needs of these disability claims.

It is our absolute moral duty to help the VA overcome its problems so it can finally make progress against the disability claims backlog. As a Marine Corps combat veteran myself, I have a personal stake in the success of the VA and I will continue to press them to improve so our veterans are getting the care and service they have earned.

Mike Coffman is the U.S. Representative for Colorado’s 6th District. He is a Marine Corps combat veteran and has a combined 21 years of military experience between the Army, the Army Reserve, the Marine Corps and the Marine Corps Reserve.

ily kept counting, but the effect of drawing out the countdown to zero seemed to motivate me just a little more.

How many times during our day do we either rush to have our workday come to an end, wishing the seconds and minutes would tick by just a little faster? And it could also happen as we wish the evening chores would go by faster or our workouts would be over sooner. What would happen if we stopped wishing for our 86,400 seconds to fly by us each day and we focused on making the most out of every one of the seconds we are so blessed to enjoy?

Instead of counting up to a final number or counting down to zero, and instead

of just emphasizing those final few seconds, try to remember just how important every second is and think of ways that you can and will make every second count.

Are you managing the clock to maximize every second, or winning the game in the final three seconds with a “buzzer beater” all too often? Either way I would love to hear all about it at gotonorton@ gmail.com, and I hope this will be a better than good week for you.

Michael Norton, a resident of Highlands Ranch, is the former president of the Zig Ziglar organization and CEO and founder of www.candogo.com

OBITUARIES

Private Party

Contact: Viola Ortega 303-566-4089 obituaries@ourcoloradonews.com

Funeral Homes

Visit: www.memoriams.com

8

8 The Independent

July 11, 2013

Teen magician helps other kids shine McKee performs fundraiser for theater programs

By Jennifer Smith

jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com Littleton won’t be able to call Derek McKee its favorite teen magician much longer, because he won’t be a teen much longer.

The 19-year-old graduated from Heritage High School in the spring and will soon be off to the University of California, Los Angeles, to study business and marketing as he prepares to pursue his magical ambitions on the West Coast.

“I’m excited for him to go, but I’m going to miss him,” said his proud mom, Sharon McKee, after his performance at Littleton’s Town Hall Arts Center on July 6. The occasion was a fundraiser for the theater’s youth programs, designed to give young people a place to express themselves creatively, expand their appreciation of the arts and develop artistic skills.

“We open up new worlds for children by providing experience and guidance in a professional setting,” reads THAC’s website.

The kids are rehearsing now to perform the school version of “Grease,” running July 12-20. THAC also offers a variety of workshops on everything from stage combat to physical comedy.

With his own youthful energy shining, McKee gave several kids some time

Castle Rock

Heritage graduate Derek McKee performed his magic at a fundraiser for Town Hall Arts Center July 6. He leaves for UCLA later this summer to study business and marketing. Courtesy photo in the spotlight during his performance.

He even decked out one young lady in his “Derek McKee lookalike kit.” He stuck his hands through the sleeves and coached her through some tricks while whispering in her ear what to say.

“You’re clapping like you see this every day, so now I will keep doing this trick until you like it,” she giggled to the audience after a making a handkerchief appear.

Highlands Ranch

Littleton

Parker

Parker

Parker

First United Methodist Church 1200 South Street Castle Rock, CO 80104 303.688.3047 www.fumccr.org

Services:

Saturday 5:30pm Sunday 8am, 9:15am, 10:30am Sunday School 9:15am Little Blessings Day Care www.littleblessingspdo.com

Open and Welcoming

Sunday Worship 8:00 am Chapel Service 9:00 & 10:30 am

Sunday School 9:00 & 10:30 am

www.st-andrew-umc.com

Welcome Home!

Weaving Truth and Relevance into Relationships and Life

worship Time 10:30AM sundays

Affiliated with United Church of Religious Science

303-794-2683 Preschool: 303-794-0510

Castle Rock Recreation Center 2301 Woodlands Blvd, Castle Rock

9203 S. University Blvd.

Highlands Ranch, 80126

303 798 6387

CENTER FOR SPIRITUAL LIVING Sunday Services 10 a.m.

www.OurCenterforSpiritualLiving.org 720-851-0265

4391 E Mainstreet, Parker, Colorado 80134 Church Office – (303) 841-3836

www.parkerbiblechurch.org

303-791-3315

pastor@awlc.org www.awlc.org

A place for you

Lutheran Church & School

GRACE PRESBYTERIAN Alongside One Another On Life’s Journey

You are invited to worship with us:

Sundays at 10:00 am

Sunday Worship 8:00 & 10:45 a.m.

Grace is on the NE Corner of Santa Fe Dr. & Highlands Ranch Pkwy.

(Across from Murdochs)

Trinity Lutheran School & ELC (Ages 3-5, Grades K-8)

303-798-8485

 303-841-4660 www.tlcas.org 

8:45 am & 10:30 am

Sunday

8:30 a.m.

11:00 a.m.

1609 W. Littleton Blvd.

(303) 798-1389 • www.fpcl.org

Sunday 9:30am

Joyful Mission Preschool 303-841-3770 7051 East Parker Hills Ct. • Parker, CO 303-841-3739 www.joylutheran-parker.org

Parker

Parker, CO 10am Worship Service www.hilltopucc.org 303-841-2808

Sunday services held in the historic Ruth Memorial Chapel at the Parker Mainstreet Center

...19650 E. Mainstreet, Parker 80138

Fellowship & Worship: 9:00 am Sunday School: 10:45 am 5755 Valley Hi Drive Parker, CO 303-941-0668

www.SpiritofHopeLCMC.org

New Thought...Ancient Wisdom Sunday Service

& Children’s Church 10:00 a.m.

Visit our website for details of classes & upcoming events.

303.805.9890

www.P a r k er C C R S.org P.O. Box 2945—Parker CO 80134-2945

www.gracecolorado.com

Trinity

Sunday Worship

Community Church of Religious Science Hilltop United Church Of Christ 10926 E. Democrat Rd.



  

Connect – Grow – Serve

SErviCES:

Saturday 5:30pm

Pastor David Fisher

of Littleton

Worship Services Sundays at 9:00am

“Loving God - Making A Difference”

Franktown

Parker evangelical Presbyterian church

9030 Miller road Parker, Co 80138 303-841-2125 www.pepc.org

www.gracepointcc.us





LUTHERAN CHURCH, ELCA

Abiding Word Lutheran Church First Presbyterian Church 8391 S. Burnley Ct., Highlands Ranch

Sunday Worship 10:30  4825 North Crowfoot Valley Rd. Castle Rock • canyonscc.org  303-663-5751



Sunday Worship: 10:45AM & 6PM Bible Study: 9:30AM Children, Young People & Adults

(Next to RTD lot @470 & University)

An Evangelical Presbyterian Church

Joy

Where people are excited about God’s Word.

Open hearts. Open minds. Open doors.

9:00am Spiritual Formation Classes for all Ages 90 east orchard road littleton, co





McKee’s magical journey started when he was about her age, just 6 years old, and many of his inspirations were the audience.

His grandma, known as Gaga, got the ball rolling by buying him a Lance Burton magic set.

“Yes, I have a Lady Gaga in my life,” he said. (Perhaps that explains his flair for performing?)

Gaga said she’s amazed at her grandson’s

talent.

“I just want the best for him,” she said.

“He’s a lovely person.”

His love for the magic set inspired his other grandparents, who sold the old Western Wardrobe building to Reinke Bros., to take him to visit the Reinke store and its magic counter.

“Derek’s just a joy,” said his grandma.

“Most of the rest of our grandkids tend to be quiet, but Derek’s just bubbly. He always gives us a lot of pleasure.”

He became a regular fixture at Reinke’s, and credits that with much of his success.

McKee calls resident magician Richard Nakata his mentor — Nakata opened the show for him, and McKee has never done a show without the mysterious cup-and-ball trick Nakata taught him, using the cups he handed down to him.

“He’s had lots of great things and lots of good people helping him,” said his mom.

“Littleton is great, but it’s time for him to broaden his horizons.”

At 11, McKee became the youngest person ever to compete at the World Magic Teen Competition in Las Vegas. Two years later, as he prepared to compete there for the third time, a production company decided to film a documentary based on it.

“Make Believe” won in its category at the Los Angeles Film Festival, and McKee was on his way.

His great-grandma is sure he’ll be on TV again soon.

“I’m a great-grandma who is very proud,” she said. “I hope he fulfills his dreams.”

Greewood Village Saint Peter Lutheran Church and Rainbow Trail Lutheran Camp

Day Camp 2013 August 5 – 8 9300 E. Belleview Ave. Greenwood Village Colorado 80111 303-770-9301 or www.stplc.org

*ages 3 yrs to those entering 6th grade

To advertise your place of worship in this section, call 303-566-4091 or email kearhart@ourcoloradonews.com.

9-Color

The Independent 9

July 11, 2013

e Rally calls for immigration reform

said.Activists

lean on GOP to back bill that passed Senate

d his West-By Vic Vela s., tovvela@ourcoloradonews.com d its A group of immigration activists rallied dma.in Denver on July 2 to call on Colorado’s nd toRepublican U.S. representatives to support waysan immigration-reform bill that recently passed the Senate. nke’s, “We are calling on our Republican concess.gressional delegation leaders to step up, to d Na-exercise leadership, to show bipartisan willshowingness, to follow the will of the people of showColorado,” said Julien Ross of the Colorado trickImmigrant Rights Coalition, during a rally and-that was held outside of Denver’s Republican Party headquarters. ots of The group waved Americans flags and mom.held signs that signaled its desire for imm tomigration reform at the federal level. Immigration reform is high on President per-Obama’s second-term priority list, but it’s Magican effort that faces an unknown future in yearsthe Republican-controlled House. e for The bill — which passed the Democraty de-ic-controlled Senate by a 68-32 vote on June on it.27 — overhauls immigration laws by allowt theing a pathway to citizenship for about 11 wasmillion undocumented workers. It also puts provisions in place that strengthen border n TVsecurity.

Many House Republicans have exoud,”pressed concern over security issues in the ” bill, and some party members are opposed to a bill that they believe grants amnesty for those living here illegally.

House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, has said through national media outlets that he will not bring the bill up for a vote

Immigration activists rally outside Denver’s Republican Party headquarters on July 2 in support of an immigration reform bill that is making its way through Congress. Photo by Vic Vela if the majority Republicans in his caucus do not support it.

The purpose of the Denver rally, which was organized by Coloradans for Citizenship Now, was to put pressure on Colorado’s four House Republicans — Reps.

Mike Coffman, Doug Lamborn, Cory Gardner and Scott Tipton — to support the Senate bill.

Through a statement issued after the rally, Democratic Rep. Ed Perlmutter joined

Time Warner breaks ground for expansion $85 million data center to add jobs, local income

By Deborah Grigsby

dgrigsby@ourcoloradonews.com Time Warner Cable broke ground June 25 for construction of a new $85 million Data Center expansion in Centennial.

The National Data Center West, located at 11011 E. Peakview Drive, will support the delivery of digital video and IP-based services for TWC’s core residential and business products.

Chosen for its cool, dry electronicsfriendly atmosphere, Centennial will be home to a modern 170,000-square-foot facility with more than 1,600 racks of technical equipment.

“Every day we serve millions of customers across 29 states from Hawaii to Maine, and expansion of National Data Center West reaffirms our commitment to deliver an expanding array of products, services and content to our customers anywhere, any time and on any device,” said Mike LaJoie, executive vice president and chief technology officer of Time Warner Cable.

Like its sister facility in Charlotte, N.C., NDC West will host applications that support approximately 70 million residential emails sent per day, managing the billing records of more than 15 million customers and supporting back-end applications delivered to Time Warner Cable employees.

Construction will continue through late

2014, according to a statement by TWC, with the new facility scheduled to go online in January 2015.

Including upgrades that have already been made at the facility since 2011, cost for the entire project, once complete, will top $141 million.

Construction on the additional building for National Data Center West will continue through late 2014, with the new facility scheduled to go online in January 2015.

Including upgrades that have been made at the facility since 2011, investment in the entire project will top $141 million once complete.

Through thoughtful planning, design and best practices, the company hopes to achieve Silver LEED certification in the categories of site, water, energy, material use and environmental quality.

“Our two national data centers serve as backups to one another to provide our residential and business customers with continuously available services, even in times of a major disruption,” said Jim Ludington, senior vice president of technology business operations for Time Warner Cable.

“We’re excited to be extending and enhancing our Data Center here and expanding our operations in this area.”

Seventy employees are currently located within the facility, but once the project is complete, TWC expects to add jobs to ensure the facility is staffed 24 hours a day.

According to TWC, during the course of the project, the company is on track to add close to 400 jobs, equating to more than $11 million in local income.

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rally organizers in calling on House Republicans to pass immigration reform, saying that by allowing undocumented persons a pathway to citizenship it would “lead to increased job growth and a stronger economy.”

“I hope House Republican leadership will work with Democrats in a bipartisan way to protect our borders and ensure those who are working hard, paying taxes, getting an education, learning English and

not committing crimes are able to achieve their American Dream as a citizen of our country,” Perlmutter said.

Colorado House Republicans are concerned that the Senate bill doesn’t go far enough in strengthening border security.

Coffman said in a statement that in 1986, when Congress passed a major immigration reform bill, the promises made “on enforcement and border security were not promises kept.”

“I will look for solutions in the House that will provide for the reforms necessary to not only secure our borders but to verify that they remain secure,” Coffman said in the statement.

Coffman spokesman Dustin Zvonek did not wish to comment beyond what was in the statement.

Rally speakers brought up Coffman’s upcoming re-election race, a contest that surely will receive national attention.

“Latinos came out in record numbers in the last election,” said Olivia Mendoza of the Colorado Latino Forum. “This is just the beginning.”

Ezequiel Ramirez, 19, of Highlands Ranch, voted for the first time last year, and is one of Coffman’s constituents.

Though he was born in the U.S., his parents were not.

“The message we want to get across is that this is potentially going to help out a lot of people,” Ramirez said.

“It’s going to help us become a better country. There’s a lot of people counting on (Coffman) and it’s really important for him to put his vote into this.

Asked by reporters how he’d characterize Coffman’s re-election chances if he does not support the bill, Ramirez said, “Best of luck.”

HAVE A STORY IDEA? Email your ideas to Littleton Community Editor Jennifer Smith at jsmith@ourcoloradonews.com or call her at 303-566-4079.

Join Us for the 17th Annual Biergarten Festival Celebrating German Traditions and Culture!

Friday, July 12th 4PM-10PM Saturday, July 13th 11AM-10PM Sunday, July 14th 10AM-2PM Authentic German Food, Drink, and Live Music Kids’ Games • Bratwurst Eating Contest www.biergartenfest.com

Admission:

Friday & Saturday--$8/person Sunday--Frühschoppen! (FREE entry and $15 all-you-can-eat brunch buffet) Kids 12 and under are FREE

Edelweiss Pavilion, Hwy 8. Morrison (just north of the Fort Restaurant and south of Red Rocks)

10-Color

10 The Independent

July 11, 2013

ourcolorado

CLASSIFIEDS TO ADVERTISE, CALL 303-566-4100

INSIDE

.com

REAL ESTATE CAREERS MARKETPLACE SERVICE DIRECTORY

Rightsizing your next home O

ne of today’s real estate trends is appropriately named “rightsizing.” This happens when an existing home owner wants to rightsize their housing needs in terms of space, upkeep and mortgage costs.

Typically, Empty Nesters or buyers in retirement are looking to rightsize, but this trend applies to anyone looking to buy their next home.One of the ways current students or even recent graduates can make themselves more attractive to prospective employers is to find the right internship. Internships are not always easy to get, and many of them don’t pay. But students who find the right internship often look back and recognize that their internship was their first step toward a rewarding career, and a step that provided valuable insight into their chosen field. To find the right internship, consider the following tips.

Whether you are interested in living in a traditional neighborhood or a master-planned community full of amenities, with these simple steps you will be able to find the rightsized home to fit your needs.

SPACE For the first time in many years, smaller homes have become much more dominant in the marketplace.

For many, the right fitting home is smaller than ever before. The assump-

tion is that only Empty Nesters or retired adults would welcome less space, but today’s families are discovering the appeal of smaller homes.

Less space means less to maintain inside and out, providing more time to enjoy the home and less time cleaning. Smaller homes also can help to rightsize costs, from the energy bill to the mortgage, which is always an attractive feature. Looking at the bigger picture, a smaller home carries a reduced carbon footprint and adds to the environmental appeal of such a decision.

UPKEEP For some, the most important home amenity is maintenance or the lack thereof. A home within a masterplanned community, for example, appeals to those who have reached a point in their lives where they want to spend less time taking care of a home and more time enjoying their home.

Generally designed to provide lowmaintenance properties, these communities allow for a lock-and-leave lifestyle, meaning if the homeowner wants to leave for a long weekend or an extended holiday, they simply lock their home and leave without needing to arrange to have the grass cut and watered, or snow shoveled from the sidewalk. Even if they aren’t traveling, these homeowners can also enjoy

being at home and not having those tasks on their to-do list, ever thanks to the maintenance provided by the Home Owner’s Association (HOA).

COST When looking for a home, cost is oftentimes the leading factor in any search. Cost varies greatly depending on the age and size of a home, the surrounding community and a number of other factors that figure into the value of a home. When looking for your next home, make sure to consider what matters most to you – style of home, amenities, walkability, etc. – knowing the rightsize cost will affect which elements are possible.

One way to rightsize your cost, yet still afford many of the community features you want, is to look in a neighborhood or master-planned community that offers multiple housing types. When a mixture of housing types is available – single-family, patio home or other style – it is much more reasonable to expect to find the rightsized mortgage to fit your financial needs. And, when you bring together home styles that appeal to everyone from young professionals and growing families, to Empty Nesters and active adults, a vibrant community is the result.

As you head out to find your next home, don’t think of it as fitting in

with the Jones’, but rightsizing with your needs. After all, the Jones’ won’t be living there, so you shouldn’t buy a home with their needs in mind. ■

Author’s Byline: Jeff Hall is senior sales and marketing manager for Solterra, a master-planned community in Lakewood. He may be reached at 303.790.6582 or jeff.hall@brookfieldrp.com. For more information about Solterra, please visit www.MySolterra.com.

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July 11, 2013

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.com

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ourcolorado SY NC 2 Me dia COSC AN TO ADVERTISE YOUR JOBS, CALL 303-566-4100 Help Wanted

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Benefits: • Target merchandise discount • Competitive pay • Flexible scheduling

To Apply: • Visit Target.com/careers, select hourly stores positions and search for the store city or zip code • Apply in person at the Employment Kiosks located near the front of any Target Store

Visit Target.com/careers to apply Target is an equal employment opportunity employer and is a drug-free workplace. ©2013 Target Stores. The Bullseye Design and Target are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc. All rights reserved.

CARRIERS WANTED NORTH AND SOUTH METRO ROUTES AVAILABLE

Call

303-566-4103 Reliable Vehicle Necessary.

13-Color

The Independent 13

July 11, 2013

ourcolorado

.com

TO SELL YOUR GENTLY USED ITEMS, CALL 303-566-4100 Farm Products & Produce Grain Finished Buffalo

quartered, halves and whole

719-775-8742

Locally raised, grass fed and grain finished Beef & Pork.

Quarters, halves, wholes available.

Can deliver 720-434-1322 schmidtfamilyfarms.com

Wanted Semi retired HVAC sheet metal shop worker seeking part time employment in Golden area, experienced in hand layout, plasma cutting, roto-die, Stormy 970-520-7899 Wanted to rent; quiet space w/hookups for 36' RV. We're quiet, have references and no pets.

Prefer within 20 miles of Castle Rock area but will consider others 928-528-8028 dale@azbigsky.com

GARAGE & ESTATE SALES Garage Sales Castle Rock 3 Family Yard Sale Fri-Sat 8-3!

4222 Serenade Rd CR (Bell Mtn).

John Deere Tractor & assessories, Moped, Elect scooters, clothes, Trampoline, edger, mower, Pottery barn kids furniture, TOTAL GYM machine, Felt kids racing bike, Giant bike, sports equip, printers AND MUCH MORE! Golden Apple Meadows community sale Friday 7/12 - Saturday 7/13 from 9a-3p both days.

Come and check out over 40 homes. We are just east of Hwy 94 on 58th ave. Just follow the signs to find new treasures.

Arvada Garage Sale 6189 Otis St July 13th & 14th 9am-4pm power & hand tools, furniture, clothing, art, household items and more.

Arvada Garage Sale-8am-?

July 12th & 13th 8221 Chase Way between Sheridan & Wadsworth Large variety of everything!

Great prices Castle Rock Garage Sale July 12th & 13th 9am-3pm 388 Bayan Ct in PlumCreek Golden Moving Sale- exercise bikes, clothes, dishes, shoes, games, books, and much more Fri & Sat 12th & 13th 9am-3pm 17140 W 9th Ave 9th Ave & Ulysses St

Garage Sales Castle Rock July 12th, 13th & 14th 19th, 20th & 21st 8am-5pm A Spectacular Garage Sale Items for everyone even college kids. Kitchen, Small Appliances, Christmas, Sports Gear, odds n ends, lots of new stuff 219 Crosshaven, Plum Creek Lakewood Moving/Yard Sale July 12-14 9-4 63 S Newland Ct lots of books, womens clothing, gas grill, everything must go!

303-235-0399 Arvada MacArthur Park multiple family, Garage Sale, 81st and Kipling, Arvada. July 12-13, 8 to 3 pm Call Sue at 303-868-2113 Arvada Garage Sale 6950 Independence St., Fri. & Sat. July 12 & 13 8am-3pm.

Vintage dolls & accessories HO Train Set, Movie Projector & films, Princess Di, Puzzles, Kitchen Stuff, Coffee Table, Vintage Hats, Tennis, Sewing, 1920's Sheet Music, Games, Jars & Misc.

Parker

Garage/Moving Sale

16432 Parkside Dr Saturday July 13 - 8 AM to 3 PM Tons of baby clothes, baby items and more!

Text Tom at 303 919 5768

Estate Sales Estate Sale Franktown 11515 E Caribou Dr off Russeville Rd & 83 Fri & Sat July 12th & 13th 9am-4pm Contents of home including Curtis snow plow 3000, large tractor vintage 1951 (TO 20), Craftmans riding lawnmower and snowblower attachment, car port frames, and more!

Appliances White Maytag Neptune -front load washer & dryer with 2 pedestals.

Great condition! Energy efficient, $550.00 303-646-1971 leave msg Washer/Dryer Maytag Front loader, 4 yrs old. w/12" risers w/drawers Good Condition $850 (303)9096789

Bicycles Schwinn Womens 7 speed, like new $100.00 303-420-4350

Furniture

Miscellaneous

Beautiful formal Dining Room Set, Table + 6 chairs and glass front China cabinet (mirrored back) chairs are white upholstered. $750 OBO 303-646-1971 leave msg

100% Guaranteed Omaha Steaks SAVE 69% on The Grilling Collection. NOW ONLY $49.99 Plus 2 FREE GIFTS & right-to-the-door delivery in a reusable cooler, ORDER Today. 1- 888-697-3965 Use Code:45102ETA or www.OmahaSteaks.com/offergc05 _____________________________

Upright Baldwin Piano $195 obo TV Sony Trinitron 30" screen $125 303-660-8730

DISH TV Retailer. Starting at $19.99/month PLUS 30 Premium Movie Channels FREE for 3 Months! SAVE! & Ask About SAME DAY Installation!

CALL - 877-992-1237 _____________________________

NFL-NBA-NHL-NCAA-MLB WWW.DENVERTICKET.COM (303)-420-5000

Q Oak Bed, beautiful w/4 drawers under, Woodleys $550 complet.

Glass top din table 42" rnd 4 chairs, $125. 2 bar stools, swivel w/backs $20 ea 720-733-0853 Sofa 92" dark green excellent condition, durable, spotless fabric. email- gswitser@msn.com for photos. $200 303-681-3906

Lawn and Garden Weed Wacker (trimmer) Craftsman, heavy duty, electric, with extra string $35 Worx GT battery operated, 2 batteries included and extra string $25 303-420-4350

Health and Beauty Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90% on all your medication needs. Call today 1-800-418-8975, for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping. _____________________________ ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get CPAP Replacement Supplies at little or NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 1-866-993-5043 _____________________________ Medical Alert for Seniors - 24/7 monitoring. FREE Equipment.

FREE Shipping. Nationwide Service. $29.95/Month CALL Medical Guardian Today 866-992-7236 _____________________________ CASH for unexpired DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! Free Shipping, Friendly Service, BEST prices and 24hr payment! Call today 877 588 8500 or visit www.TestStripSearch.com Espanol 888-440-4001 _____________________________ TAKE VIAGRA? Stop paying outrageous prices! Best prices‌ VIAGRA 100MG, 40 pills+/4 free, only $99.00. Discreet Shipping, Power Pill. 1-800-368-2718

Household Goods Electric adjustable twin bed like new cond. $250 Arvada area call 720-771-1049

Miscellaneous

Pet Services

Tickets/Travel

PETS

RV’s and Campers

Dish Network lowest nationwide price $19.99 a month. FREE HBO/Cinemax/Starz FREE Blockbuster. FREE HD-DVR and install.

Next day install 1-800-375-0784 _____________________________ *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! * Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting at $19.99/mo.

FREE HD/DVR upgrade for new callers, SO CALL NOW. 1-800-6997159

New C Inst Ca

Tho

~C Class A motorhome- Like new condition, less than 10k miles. 2005 ~ Rep Georgetown forest river XL, 2 slide outs, color back up camera w/mic, V10 motor, full tub w/shower, 2 roof R a/c, sleeps 5, gas stove/oven + microwave, corian counter $56k Call Barb 303-988-6265 or Tom 720-940-7754

Wanted

Nee

Cash for all Cars and Trucks

DirecTV - Over 140 channels only $29.99 a month. Call Now! Triple savings! $636.00 in Savings, Free upgrade to Genie & 2013 NFL Sunday ticket free!! Start saving today! 1-800-279-3018

Advertise your product or service nationwide or by region in up to 12 million households in North America's best suburbs! Place your classified ad in over 815 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 or go to www.classifiedavenue.net _____________________________

Joe

Commer

1999 Mazda Miata convertable with hard top, loaded, 64k miles, excellent cond. hates gas, $7000 720-404-6021

KILL SCORPIONS! Buy Harris Scorpion Spray. Indoor/Outdoor.

Odorless, Non-Staining, Long Lasting. Kills Socrpions and other insects. Effective results begin after the spray dries! Available at Ace Hardware, The Home Depot or Homedepot.com _____________________________

My Computer Works Computer problems? Viruses, spyware, email, printer issues, bad internet connections - FIX IT NOW! Professional, U.S.-based technicians. $25 off service. Call for immediate help. 1-866-998-0037 _____________________________

Joes

Community resource website Learn about holistic therapies for dogs Natural Dog Remedies 720.345.7379

Autos for Sale

All Tickets Buy/Sell

KILL BED BUGS & THEIR EGGS! Buy a Harris Bed Bug Kit, Complete Room Treatment Solution.

Odorless, Non-Staining. Available online homedepot.com (NOT IN STORES) _____________________________

Instrumentation Testing Equipment - Too much to list call for more information 303-238-1986

www.naturaldogremedies.net

Under $1000 Running or not.

Any condition

Cats

(303)741-0762

KITTENS KITTENS KITTENS tabbies, mixture of colors also black or black & white boys, girls. Small adoption fee 303-430-4569

CASH FOR CARS! Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not. Sell Your Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing! Instant Offer: 1-888-545-8647 _____________________________ Got junk cars? Get $ PAID TODAY. FREE towing. Licensed towers. $1,000 FREE gift vouchers!

ALL Makes-ALL Models! Call today 1-888-870-0422 _____________________________ SAVE $$$ on AUTO INSURANCE from the major names you know and trust. No forms. No hassle. No obligation. Call READY FOR MY QUOTE now! CALL 1-877-8906843 Please Recycle this Publication when Finished Top Cash Paid for Junk Cars Up to $500 720-333-6832

bestcashforcars.com

Dogs Penbroke Welsh Corgi red and white male puppy, shots and wormed, except rabies. 6 months old, wonderful puppy $300 720-213-4046

Horse & Tack Horse boarding near C-470 & Quebec, stall w/run. Quality feed, round pen, arena, pasture, access to trails $214/mo 303-601-3896

Ac

Detai

Use cattle to improve your horsemanship skills

on the 87,000 acre Chico Basin Ranch. Cam Schryver, life long educator and horseman, supported

by Chico Basin Ranch staff, will help you sharpen your skills in a ranch setting, working cattle as a medium for learning natural horsemanship principles. www.chicobasinranch.com 719.719.683.7960 or info@chicobasinranch.com

Hon

Re Mov For Local News Anytime

of the Day Visit Refer OurColoradoNews.com Avail

OFF

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FAM

B DEP

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When

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Concr Side Co

Build brand loyalty at the zip code level.

For more information on advertising in one or more of our 23 community papers or 20 websites, Call 303-566-4100.

A

T.

ColoradoCommunityMedia.com

14-Color

14 The Independent

July 11, 2013

ourcolorado

SERVICES TO ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICES, CALL 303-566-4100 Carpet/Flooring

Joes Carpet Service, Inc.

Concrete/Paving

Doors/Windows

FBM Concrete LLC.

Door Doctor

Garage Doors

D o or SpecialiSt ~ c arpenter

Interior • Exterior Replacement • Repair Commercial • Residential

Joe Southworth

New Carpet Sales • Wholesale Pricing Installation • Restretch • Repairs Call foR youR fRee eStImate

720.227.1409

Free Estimates 17 Years Experience Licensed & Insured Driveways, patios, stamp & colored concrete.

All kinds of flat work.

Let us do good work for you!

(720)217-8022

720.276.9648

whiteyjr@yahoo.com www.DenverDoorDoctor.com

~ Carpet Restretching ~ Repair ~ Remnant Installs In home carpet & vinyl sales

Owner Operated

Service & Repair

Springs, Cables, Openers, etc…

10% Off with thiS ad 303-716-0643

PAUL TIMM

For all your garage door needs!

303-841-3087 303-898-9868

Cleaning

Need House Cleaning?

Professional, Reliable, Responsible 11 years experience & good references Call Maria For A Free Estimate

720-270-4478

10% off lAboR With AD

Deck/Patio UTDOOR

ESIGNS, INC

“Specializing in Composite Redwood and Cedar Construction for Over 30 Years”

• DECKS • • FENCES • • STAIRS • • OVERHANGS •

since 1989

We Specialize in All Residential Drywall Needs

Drywall Repair • Remodels Additions • Basements • Texture Popcorn Ceilings replaced with texture of choice One Year Warranty On All Work fRee eStimAteS

303-688-9221 office 720-331-0314 cell

• Springs, Repairs • New Doors and Openers • Barn and Arena Doors • Locally-Owned & Operated • Tom Martino’s Referral List 10 Yrs • BBB Gold Star Member Since 2002

www.mikesgaragedoors.com

Handyman

Littleton

www.decksunlimited.com

A continental flair

Detailed cleaning at reasonable rates.

Deck Restore

Honest & Dependable

Repair • Power Wash Stain • Seal

Residential • Commercial Move Outs • New Construction

Free Estimates Highly Experienced

References Available

720.283.2155

Bill 720-842-1716

DAZZLING DAIZIES OFFICE & HOUSE CLEANING SINCE 1990 BONDED AND INSURED DEPENDABLE - EXPERIENCED With REFERENCES WKLY - BIWKLY - MONTHLY JODI - 303-910-6532

Just Details Cleaning Service

When “OK” Just isn’t good enough -Integrity & Quality Since 1984 For more information visit: JustDetailsCleaningService.com Call Rudy 303-549-7944 for free est.

Concrete/Paving

BEST PRICES 30+ years experience Clem: 303-973-6991

FREE ESTIMATES Colorado #1

Deck & Fence Restoration & Refinishing

PRoFessional

303-261-6163 • Repairs • Sanding • Stain • Pressure Washing • Paint & Seal • FREE ESTIMATES • www.coloradodeckandfence.com All Phases of Flat Work by

T.M. CONCRETE

Concrete Mike

www.MrSandless.com

’s DeSpain Home SolutionS

• Home Renovation and Remodel • 30 years Experience • Insured • Satisfaction Guaranteed Highly rated & screened contractor by Home Advisor & Angies list

Call Ed 720-328-5039

Sanders Drywall Inc. All phases to include

Acoustic scrape and re-texture Repairs to full basement finishes Water damage repairs Interior paint, door & trim installs 30+ years experience Insured Free estimates

303-683-7990 • Trex Pro

TheLowerDeck.net

Solving All your Remodeling & Repair Problems – Just Ask!

DepenDable, Reliable SeRvice Over 30 Years Experience Licensed & Insured

Eric DeSpain 303-840-1874 FREE Estimates

A+

HIGHLANDS HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC.

General Repair & Remodel “We Also Specialize in Electrical Projects” Licensed/Insured/Guaranteed

Hauling Service

Mountain HigH Landscape, irrigation, and Lawncare

Family Owned and Operated We are a full service design, installation and maintenance company.

Call Don

303-915-6973

at

donlease@mtnhighlandscaping.com

Spring Cleanup – Sprinkler Start-up aeration/power rake – Sprinkler DeSign inStallation anD repairS – lawnCare tree anD Shrub Care – weeDControl

Bronco

HAULERS • Dependable • Affordable • • Prompt Service 7 days a week • • Foreclosure and Rental clean-outs • • Garage clean-outs • • Furniture • • Appliances •

FREE ESTIMATES

Call 720-218-2618

trash hauling

Instant Trash Hauling • Home • Business • Junk & Debris • Furniture • Appliances • Tree Limbs • Moving Trash • Carpet • Garage Clean Out

A+

HIGHLANDS HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC.

General Repair & Remodel Paul Boggs Master Electrician Licensed/Insured/Guaranteed

Dirt, Rock, Concrete, Sod & Asphalt

303-791-4000

Call Bernie 303.347.2303

Free estimates 7 days a Week

Affordable Electrician 25 yrs experience Remodel expert, kitchen, basements, & service panel upgrades.

No job too small. Senior disc.

720-690-7645

Fence Services Cowboy Fencing is a full service fence & gate company installing fences in Colorado for 23 years.

Residential/Commercial/Farm & Ranch Fencing

Commercial & Residential All types of cedar, chain link, iron, and vinyl fences. Install and repair. Serving all areas.

Low Prices.

FREE Estimates.

720-434-7822 or 303-296-0303

Aerating, Lawn Mowing, Fertilizing, Power Raking, Yard Clean-up and Sprinkler Work

A&M Lawn Service

Landscaping & Land Care Services

•XERISCAPING •LANDSCAPING •FLAGSTONE OR PAVESTONE •SHRUB/TREE INSTALLATION & PRUNING •SPRINkLER •DESIGN & INSTALLATION - PATIOS & wALkwAyS - SOD & SOIL •AmENDmENTS - RETAINING wALLS - wATER FEATURES •LAwN mAINTENANCE - Commercial & Residential

Weekly Mowing • Fertilization Aeration - $7/1000 sq.ft. $35/5000 sq. ft.

Power Raking & Vacuuming - $85/5000 sq. ft. or $17/1000 sq.ft. water features • sprinklers

303-791-4000

Electricians

D & D FENCING

Custom designs that fit your lifestyle…

insured/FRee estimates Brian 303-907-1737

Member of the BBB • Certified Green

Drywall Repair Specialist

FREE Estimates

• Dust Contained Sanding • New or Old Wood • Hardwood Installation

303-503-4087

A PATCH TO MATCH

Low rates, Free estimates Scott, Owner 720-364-5270

Driveways, Sidewalks, Patios Tear-outs, colored & stamped concrete. Quality work, Lic./Ins. Reasonable rates "Small Jobs OK!" 303-514-7364

Concrete Work, Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, Tear Out, Replace, Colored. Reasonable Rates Office 303-840-7347 Mobile 303-902-1503

Patches • Repairs • Texturing Basements • Additions • Remodels We Accept • Painting & Wallpaper Removal All Major (303)988-1709 cell (720)373-1696 Credit Cards www.123drywall.com

Darrell 303-915-0739

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

independent Hardwood Floor Co, LLC

• Commercial and Residential •

35 Years Experience

720-635-0418

Licensed & Insured

Licensed & Insured 303-688-5021 www.oakvalleyconstruction.com

Give your floor a 5 year facelift at ½ the cost of full refinishing!

Mike Martis, Owner

Denver’s Premier Custom Deck Builder

Serving Douglas County for 30 Years

Call Ray Worley CALL 303-995-4810

Lawn/Garden Services

Drywall Finishing

12 years experience.

Great References

H Bathroom H Basements H Kitchens Serving Douglas H Drywall County for 30 years BASEMENTS H | BATHROOMS Decks| KITCHENS

Oak Valley

Construction

(303) 646-4499

303-471-2323

• DepenDable • • Thorough • • honesT •

FREE Estimates - Reliable, over 20 yrs. exp.

Carpentry, Drywall, Deck Staining, Painting, Gutter Cleaning, Plumbing, Electrical & more 303-243-2061

Hardwood Floors

Residential & Commercial

303-781-4919

Jim Myers Home Repair

Call or text anytime

Drywall Construction/Repair Drywall Serving Your Area Since 1974

Thomas Floor Covering

Landscaping/Nurseries

GreGor

GaraGe Door

James marye

Commercial & Residential Sales

Handyman

30 Years Exp.

303-791-5551

Call for a free estimate

www.AMLandscapingServices.com

Family Owned & Operated

AMLandscaping@gmail.com

Alpine Landscape Management

Aerate, Fertilize, Power Raking, Weekly Mowing Trim Bushes & Sm. Trees, Sr. Disc.

720-329-9732

Columbine Custom Contracting & Sprinkler Service • Sprinkler Start Ups $40 • Aerations $40 • Fertilization $30 • Power Rakes $60 & Up • Fence Repair & Painting • Power wash decks & houses • Clean Up / Tree service • Laminate/Hardwood Floors • Licensed Plumber

Tony 720-210-4304

Home Improvement !

INSURED

JIM 303.818.6319

“HONEY-DO’S DONE THAT YOUR HONEY DON’T DO.”

For ALL your Remodeling & Repair Needs

A+

— SMALL JOBS INSIDE AND OUT —

HIGHLANDS HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC.

AFFORDABLE

General Repair, Remodel, Electrical, Plumbing, Custom Kitchen & Bath, Tile Installation & Basement Finish

HANDYMAN

Carpentry • Painting Tile • Drywall • Roof Repairs Plumbing • Electrical Kitchen • Basements Bath Remodels Property Building Maintenance Free Estimates • Reliable Licensed • Bonded Insured • Senior Discount

Ron Massa

Office 303-642-3548 Cell 720-363-5983 No Service in Parker or Castle Rock

Licensed/Insured

FREE Estimates

303-791-4000

303.870.8434

— WeeKlY MoWiNg —

1st mow free with summer commitment for new customers

Big Dog * Special

10999

$

Aeration, Fertilization & Power Raking

little Dog * Special

65

$

Aeration & Fertilization Combo Yard Cleanup, Aeration, Fertilizer, Shrub Trimming

www.denverlawnservices.com Established 2000 • *up to 5000 sq/ft

Did you know... Colorado Community Media was created to connect you to 23 community papers with boundless opportunity and rewards.

15-Color

The Independent 15

July 11, 2013

ourcolorado

SERVICES TO ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICES, CALL 303-566-4100

Lawn/Garden Services

Painting

PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR SERVICES

Commercial • Residential Apartments • Warehouse Deck • Fence Interior • Exterior Repairs • Remodels Only use top quality products Free Estimates

TREES/ SHRUBS TRIMMED Planted, Trimmed & Removal • Sod Work • Rock & Block Walls • Sprinklers • Aeration • Stumps Ground • Mulch

303-467-3166

Licensed / Insured

DICK 303-783-9000 RON’S LANDSCAPING Spring Clean Up, Raking, Weeding, Flower Bed Maintenance, Schrub Retrimming Soil Prep - Sod Work Trees & Schrub Replacement also Small Tree & Bush Removal Bark, Rock Walss & Flagstone Work

FREE Estimates

Family owned business with over 35 yrs. exp.

Call or email Ron 303-758-5473 vandergang@comcast.net

Sosa Landscaping

Reasonable Price & Quality Service Full Landscaping, Fence, Tree, Sod, Rock, Weekly Mowing, Bush Trimming Low Cost - Experience - References - Dependable COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL INSURED & BONDED FREE ESTIMATE

Please call anytime: Mr. Domingo 720-365-5501

SPRINKLER TURN ON, MOWING & SPRING YARD CLEAN UP • Tree & Shrub Trimming • Aerate • • Fertilize • Gutter Clean Up & Repair • • Fence Installation & Repair • • Handyman Services • Call Walter at 720-366-5498 walterquispe@msn.com

Misc. Services

STAIRLIFTS INSTALLED

with a Warranty Starting at $1575

WALK-IN-TUBS Starting at $2995

APEXPAINT@COMCAST.NET EPA CERTIFIED

Notice... Check Internet Reviews, BBB, etc. b4 hiring anyone!

INSURED QUALITY PAINTING All American Paint Company

Plumbing

Sprinklers

Master Plumber • All plumbing repairs & replacement • Bathroom remodels • Gas pipe installation • Sprinkler repair

~ Licensed & Insured ~

Interior Painting Specialists, Drywall Repair, Exteriors and more…

No money down, Free estimates 20 years Colorado Business

303-370-0446

Perez Painting

Interior • Exterior Deck Repair

$

170

Year End Rates Fully Insured Free Estimates References

Hugo

720- 298-3496 Pest Control COMFORT PEST CONTROL

Women owned and operated Local – Economical – 24/7 Licensed – 10 years experience FREE Consultation Call Carol 720/226-1299

“We’re Crazy About Plumbing” CUSTOM HOMES REMODEL FINISHED BASEMENTS SERVICE AND REPAIR Licensed • Insured

PH: 303-472-8217 FX: 303-688-8821

Anchor Plumbing • Honest pricing • • Free estimates •

PLUMBING, SPRINKLER & SWAMP COOLERS. FREE INSTANT QUOTE.

Repair or Replace: Faucets, Toilets, Sinks, Vanity, Dishwashers, Water Heater, Broken Pipes, Spigot/Hosebib, Drain Cleaning, Disposals etc. Sprinkler StartUp/Repair/Installation. Swamp Cooler Start-Up/Repair.

Call West Tech (720)298-0880

Roofing/Gutters

M4 ROOFING & GUTTERS Located in Highlands Ranch All Types of Roofing & Repairs Family-Run Business • 20 yrs exp.

We will match any written estimate!

Same day service!

No job too small or too big!

303-960-7665 Quality Painting for Every Budget Call Jeff Lempe

Interiors • Exteriors • Decks Insured • Free Estimates No Money Down

303-901-0947 www.lovablepainters.com

LOCAL ADS, COUPONS, SPECIAL OFFERS & MORE ShopLocalColorado.com

O

STATE UN

OR COL AD

• FREE ESTIMATES • CSU ALUMNI • LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED • LICENSED INSURED

Residential:

• Hot Water Heat • Forced Air • Water Heaters • Kitchens • Baths • Service Repair • Sprinkler Repair •

Fast, friendly service All Work Guaranteed!

303-523-5859 Tile

~ All Types of Tile ~ Ceramic - Granite ~ Porcelain - Natural Stone ~ Vinyl 26 Years Experience •Work Warranty

FREE Estimates

303-781-4919

Tree Service

• All-steel with security chains • Handrails -- simple to spectacular

Call Tim @ 303-587-5822

Check out my work @ http://flyingpigmaw.com

ABE’S TREE & SHRUB CARE Abraham Spilsbury Owner/Operator

• Pruning • Removals • Shrub Maintenance • FreeEstimates Certified Arborist,Insured, Littleton Resident 720.283.8226 C:720.979.3888

Please recycle thispublication when finished.

Local Focus. More News.

19 newspapers. 21 websites. Connecting YOU to your LOCAL community. OurColoradoNews.com 303-566-4100

RSITY IVE

Plumbing

$AVE MONEY AND WATER

ALAN ATTWOOD, Master Plumber

Call Us Today! 720-545-9222

Painting

Professional Installations & Repairs Lifetime Warranty + SOD INSTALLATION

Thomas Floor Covering

303-797-8600

Licensed and Insured

Window Well Covers & Grates

303.979.0105 Plumb-Crazy, LLC.

Welding

Flying Pig welding

Bryon Johnson

“Painting Done Right!”

Brush and Roll Quality

Tile

We are community.

(303) 961-3485 Licenced & Insured

Your Community Connector to Boundless Rewards

16-Color

16 The Independent

July 11, 2013

Child-health law proves toothless Proposal was intended to spur more physical activity by kids

By Kevin Vaughan I-News Network

A 2011 state law requiring 30 minutes of physical activity a day for elementary students was supposed to mark a new tool in the fight against childhood obesity — but in reality it did little more than reinforce the status quo, an I-News examination found.

The reason: The measure was so gutted during the legislative process that it has meant virtually no meaningful changes in the way elementary schools are operated. The standard imposed by the law — which allows recess to count as physical activity time — was already being met by districts across the state.

Two years later, the school day looks exactly the same for students across the state as it did before the law was passed.

“We didn’t change anything because we were already meeting it to begin with,” said Dave Eichman, director of athletics and physical education for Colorado Springs School District 11.

That sentiment was echoed over and over again by officials in the 10 largest Colorado districts — which account for more than half of the state’s 863,561 public school students — the I-News inquiry revealed.

Checks with smaller districts by I-News showed the same thing.

Still, supporters believe the law marked an important change in Colorado by instituting a standard where none previously existed.

“We felt like it was a step in the right direction,” said Reilly Pharo, of the Colorado Children’s Campaign, a nonprofit advocacy group that backed the measure.

“We know that obesity policy is complex, and it’s bigger than what happens at the state Capitol.”

Weight issues increasing

A far more encompassing measure was originally envisioned in an effort to fight the burgeoning child obesity problem — a growing concern among health professionals and policy makers who have seen a dramatic rise in the percentage of young people who are heavy. That reality concerns health officials — an obese child is at greater risk of such things as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and sleep apnea, and is more likely to grow up to be an obese adult. In addition, obese children can suffer social discrimination.

“For kids, it has not only health consequences, but it has emotional consequences, too,” said Janet Fulton, a lead epidemiologist and expert in physical activity at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“It is that double-edged sword.”

In 1980, about 7 percent of U.S. children ages 6 to 11 were obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control. By 2010, that number had jumped to 18 percent. Among adolescents ages 12 to 19, the jump was similar — from 5 percent in 1980 to 18 percent in 2010.

HOW COLORADO STACKS UP Surveys have shown that Colorado has not compared well to other states in requiring physical education classes, I-News analysis of data found: • Colorado does not rank well in requiring recess and physical education classes in public schools. The 2010 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state indicator report on physical activity found that Colorado was one of 14 states that did not require that physical education be taught in elementary, middle and high school.

• Colorado was also one of 31 states that did not require or recommend that elementary schools provide school recess.

• Less than 25 percent of students ages 5 to 14 years of age took a physical education class five days a week in Colorado, according to the 2010 and 2011 Colorado Childhood surveys. The 2011 survey found 24 percent of the students had physical education every school day, while the 2010 found 20 percent.

• A higher percentage of students took physical education classes twice or less a week in Colorado. In 2011, it was 34 percent, and in 2010 it was 48 percent.

— Source: I-News

Grade-schoolers play during recess at Hutchinson Elementary School in Lakewood as the 2012-2013 school year draws to a close. A 2011 state law written to incorporate physical activity into the daily schedule of elementary schools to help fight against childhood obesity has had little effect, according to an I-News examination. Photo by The I-News Network at Rocky Mountain PBS

Colorado has not been immune to the problem, although the data here is less clear-cut.

For example, the Colorado Childhood Survey, conducted by the state health department, found that about 16 percent of children ages 1 to 14 were obese in 2011. But a different survey of high-school teenagers showed that about 7 percent of those students were obese that same year.

At the same time, other data paints a bleaker picture among children in a state ranked as the “fittest” by virtue of the fact that its adult obesity rate is the lowest in the country.

When it comes to childhood obesity, Colorado ranks 23rd of the 50 states, according to the CDC’s latest data. That data, which dates to 2007, showed that a little more than 14 percent of the state’s children were obese.

Trends are troubling

Other trends portend trouble on the horizon.

Latino children, who have overweight rates 60 percent higher than white children, according to the federal Office of Minority Health, are the fastest growing segment of the elementary school population.

And the percentage of poor children, also more likely to be overweight, entering the state’s elementary schools is also climbing.

Determining what constitutes “overweight” and “obese” requires determining what is known as body mass index — a formula that takes into account an individual’s height and weight.

In adults, it’s a simple calculation: Anyone with a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight; anyone with a BMI of 30 or greater is considered obese.

In children, the calculation is more complicated.

Although the determination is still based on BMI, it includes a comparison to other children the same age

and gender. A child is considered overweight with a BMI between the 85th percentile and 94th percentile as compared to children of the same age and gender.

A child who is obese has a body mass index in the 95th percentile or higher when compared to children of the same age and gender.

Against that backdrop, legislators drafted a measure that would have required each school district to formally report how it was incorporating physical activity into the daily routine for elementary students. It also proposed minimum standards for what had to be reported — including the physical education curriculum used by schools, the number of minutes each week that students spent on things like exercise programs, recess and fitness breaks, and the qualifications of those who supervised students in physical activity. And it would have required the Colorado Department of Education to report the collected information and correlate it with the academic performance information for each elementary school.

But opponents, including the Colorado Association of School Boards and several school districts, chafed at the potential cost and at the intrusion of the state into an issue that many believe is one of local control. The proposal also banged into the philosophical question of who is responsible for making sure kids lead healthy lives — parents or schools?

Schools fought measure

Among the opponents were the Jefferson County, Adams 12 and Boulder Valley school districts.

“It was creating a mandate,” said Briggs Gamblin, spokesman for Boulder Valley Schools. “That was the height of the cuts, and we felt that we couldn’t support even well-intentioned programs at that time that were

mandating new programs on school districts, many of them much more cashstrapped than us.”

The bill was amended to simply require that each school board institute a policy stating that all elementary students would have “opportunities” for the equivalent of 30 minutes of physical activity a day.

Those opportunities could include gym class, recess, stretch breaks, and field trips that involve walking.

“It was a great bill in concept, but it got watered down,” said state Sen. Irene Aguilar, one of the measure’s sponsors, who is also a primary care physician.

Because there are no reporting requirements, there is no way to know with certainty exactly how schools are complying.

Aguilar said she hopes the legislature can come back at some point and push for more substantive changes.

Research has shown that physical activity is critical to maintaining a healthy body weight in adults — and, conversely, that it is almost impossible to do it with diet alone.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans call for children to get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical movement a day.

That means moving with enough intensity to get winded. A variety of activities that promote aerobic development and muscle and bone strengthening is recommended.

And research has shown benefits far beyond healthy body weight — things like attention, behavior and academic performance all improve when kids are active, according to multiple studies.

Trouble meeting goal

Kim Gorman, director of the weight management program at the University of Colorado’s Anschutz Health

and Wellness Center, pointed out that even in the best possible scenario — every student getting 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous movement every day — it would account for only half that is called for. And it would account for only about 46 percent of the year.

But even the best case has problems. In some schools, recess is an extension of lunch — meaning students who spend more time eating can end up with less time to move around.

And recess doesn’t require a student to do anything — drive by an elementary when the kids are outside, and it’s not unusual to see groups of them standing around, or even sitting on the blacktop, talking.

Still, Gorman and others argued that it’s critical to get youngsters moving, and it doesn’t have to be running laps.

Gorman’s idea is simple: She’d have 30 minutes of open playground time before and after school each day. And then she’d let the kids do whatever they wanted so long as they were moving — everything from jumping rope to playing basketball to dancing.

“It can be dancing — it absolutely can be dancing,” Gorman said. “It doesn’t have to be a punitive thing that kids don’t like.”

Data analysis and additional reporting by Burt Hubbard. I-News is the public service journalism arm of Rocky Mountain PBS. For more information: inewsnetwork.org. Contact Kevin Vaughan at kvaughan@inewsnetwork.org or 303-4464936.

This article was conceived and produced as a project for the Dennis A. Hunt Fund for Health Journalism, which is administered by The California Endowment Health Journalism Fellowships, a program of USC’s Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism

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17-LIFE

South Metrolife

Who wants to try out for ‘Millionaire’?

to ws Men hoist some of the 100 poles required to support the big top tent for Cirque du Soleil’s newest production, “Amaluna.” Workers raised the tent July 2 on the Pepsi Center grounds as media and others looked on. The tent will seat 2,600 people and requires 550 pegs to hold it firmly in the ground.

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The Independent 17 July 11, 2013

Raise da roof Photos by Deborah GriGsby

With room for 2,600 people, the Cirque du Soleil big top takes shape on the grounds of the Pepsi Center in downtown Denver. The colorful tent will be the home to the Canadian entertainment company’s newest production, “Amaluna,” July 18 to Aug. 25. The production travels with 65 trailers carrying more than 2,000 tons of equipment.

Cirque du Soleil returns to Denver with its newest production, “Amaluna.” The first visible signs of the popular Canadian entertainment group’s arrival came July 2 as more than 60 men and women worked to erect the familiar blue and yellow big top on the Pepsi Center grounds. Traveling with 65 trailers carrying more than 2,000 tons of equipment, workers will spend eight days assembling the colorful big top, the entrance, box office, additional rehearsal tents, administrative offices and a kitchen. Once complete, the big top will seat 2,600 people for the show, which opens July 18 and runs through Aug. 25.

‘Minimum Wage’ pays off for audience

mple: es of e beeach d let they were from

By Sonya Ellingboe aying

A cappella musical comedy on stage at Avenue Theater

if you Go “Minimum Wage” plays through Aug. 3. Performances: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at the Avenue Theater, 417 E. 17th Ave., Denver. Tickets: $26. (For an additional $7.38, you can buy a ticket from the theater for a deluxe burger and fries at Park and Company, a few doors east.) 303-321-5925, avenuetheater.com.

sellingboe@ourcolorado news.com

— it ing,” When “Minimum Wage “ esn’t played Off-Broadway in 2007, hing Denver-based co-writers/ brothers Jeff and Charlie La Greca were in the cast of this tionkooky and wonderful a cappella Hubmusical comedy. (Sean Altman ublic co-wrote the songs). m of One has to see this one to beFor lieve it! ewsThe actors don’t need a band Kevin — they supply their own music @inwith their voices as they carry -446the audience at Denver’s Avenue Theater through training sessions at Happy Hamburger eived University, where “Minimum projWage” is what they’ll earn.

Hunt Under the sure hand of dilism, rector Nick Sugar, Michael d by Bouchard (Hux), Keegan C. ment Flaugh (Titus), Damon Guerallowsio (Orwell), Abby McInerney USC’s (Piercy) and Carter Edward ComSmith (Bradbury) sing rockm ing a cappella music almost

Damon Guerrasio, Keegan C. Flaugh, Abby McInerney, Carter Edward Smith and Michael Bouchard perform in the a cappella musical, “Minimum Wage” at the Avenue Theater.

Courtesy photo non-stop for 90 minutes. There are a few minutes out to watch grainy, bad training videos and announcements from the company headquarters and a few more for bits of goony action.

Numbers of new shops keep being announced. References to another major hamburger chain are continual and clever.

Music director Mark Middlebrooks, a teacher and performer familiar to fans at Littleton’s Town Hall Arts Center, has, in conjunction with Sugar’s good-humored direction and choreography, delivered an alltogether chorus of singers, each with a different role in the a cappella format and each indi-

vidually outstanding.

Strong harmonies, beatboxing and fine comic timing prevail.

Happy Hamburger University training includes segments on fryers, grills and spatulas, dangers and the theme song about what they’ll earn as they work their way toward the middle — “Minimum Wa-yay-age.”

Different songs offer each performer a chance to shine.

Keegan C. Flaugh, the booming bass, is the hypochondriac chain clown, Kooky, and Abby McInerney “Shakes her Booty With Danger.”

Damon Guerasio’s take on “G-R-I-Double-L” is a showstopper in this most entertaining evening — it’s not to be missed.

Who wants to be a millionaire? Now, you can be, as the syndicated game show will audition Denverites on July 12 at the Seawell Ballroom at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.

“Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” auditions will include a timed multiple choice test and, for those people who pass, an interview with one of the show’s producers.

Auditioners will be seen on a firstcome, first-served basis and producers will audition as many people as they can.

Participants must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. resident and meet all eligibility requirements. Rules and times can be found on “Millionaire’s” website at www. millionairetv.com.

A new season of “Millionaire” will debut at 2 p.m. Sept. 2 on KMGH-Channel 7 with new host Cedric the Entertainer.

Blues & BBQ accepts challenge

The Duke Street Kings’ 16th Annual Blues & BBQ for Better Housing Block Party — set for July 14 in Olde Town Arvada — has accepted the challenge to raise more than $25,000 as the Silver Sponsor of the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project that benefits Habitat for Humanity.

In addition to donating the money raised during the Blues & BBQ music festival, the Blues & BBQ for Better Housing Foundation will provide volunteers to help the former president build housing in Denver for those who are less fortunate.

The festival runs from noon to 8 p.m. and an all-day pass is just $10. Music will be performed on three stages and you can dine and drink on Colorado’s best barbecue and beer that includes 70 street vendors.

The past 15 years the festival has donated more than $80,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver. The Blues and BBQ for Better Housing Block Party is the Denver Habitat’s longest-running fundraiser.

For more information, visit www. bluesnbbq.com.

Paladins return

After a nearly 10-year hiatus, legendary rockabilly and Western swing legends the Paladins have reunited to perform in Denver again on July 12 at Denver’s storied “Ninth Avenue West,” now named La Rumba. Sure to be a live-music and dancing highlight of the year for many fans, the all-original lineup will feature founding members Dave Gonzales and Thomas Yearsley.

Tickets can be purchased in advance through www.Ticketfly.com, or at the door.

Admission is 21 and over only, and doors open at 9 p.m.

The Paladins, from San Diego, were founded in the early 1980s by guitarist Dave Gonzalez and his high school friend and double bass player, Thomas Yearsley. They have recorded nine studio and three live albums, and along the way built a reputation as one of America’s hardestworking live bands.

Dish, Southwest Airlines team up

Now, thanks to Dish Network and Southwest Airlines, TV flies free. Douglas County-based Dish is sponsoring free TV for all customers on eligible Southwest

Parker continues on Page 19

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18 The Independent

July 11, 2013

Museum hosts quilt retrospective Marie Agnes Conway had Littleton business

By Sonya Ellingboe

sellingboe@ourcolorado news.com

Marie Agnes Conway’s quilt ”David’s Hometown” was created for Littleton’s Centennial. It is exhibited in a retrospective of her work at the Littleton Museum. Courtesy photo by William Hastings

Marie Conway began sewing early — creating ensembles for her self and her two sisters. She graduated from Cathedral High School in Denver.

She married David Conway and they lived in Littleton, where they raised seven children: David (deceased), Daniel, Martin, John, Stephen, Paul and Jenise. They celebrated their 62nd anniversary before she passed away in July 2012.

For a time in the 1960s, she had a dressmaking business on Littleton’s Main

Street, called Marie’s, where she designed and sewed ensembles and costumes for customers.

When she retired from that business, she turned to her real love — quilting — and created many innovative wall hangings as well as functional quilts and in later years, smaller quilted pieces, such as totes and lap quilts.

“A Quilter’s Craft: Marie Agnes Conway Retrospective” is on exhibit at the Littleton Museum July 12 to March 16, 2013.

Her daughter, Jenise Conway, said there are about 50-60 works in the show.

While Conway used some traditional block patterns, usually her quilts were of her own design, each unique. She enjoyed the textures of fabrics as

if you go “A Quilter’s Craft: Marie Agnes Conway Retrospective” will be exhibited through March 16, 2014, at the Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup St., Littleton. Admission is free. Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays; 1 to 5 p.m.

Sundays. 303-795-3950.

they passed between her fingers The City of Littleton owns two Conway quilts in its art collection: “David’s Hometown” was designed and made for Littleton’s Centennial and dedicated to her oldest son as a memorial. It shows various recognizable scenes around town and has been displayed at the Littleton Center at times.

She worked on it from 1985 to 1989, finishing in time for Littleton’s 1990 Centennial

celebration.

There is also a mauve shantung silk spider quilt, her first art quilt, created in 1983 and purchased by the Littleton Fine Arts Board for the city collection. She made several quilts of silk, but most are crafted from cotton fabrics, Jenise said.

“Flora” is an example of her original designs — a rosebud with little ladybugs and ants.

Some pieces are a collaboration — with Jenise or, in the case of a pillow, with her granddaughter for a 4-H project.

Her quilts were exhibited in several local shows: the Littleton Fine Art Board’s “Own an Original”; the Littleton Fine Arts Guild Depot Art Center’s “Great Frame Up” show; and the annual Western Welcome Week Arts and Crafts show.

Thinkers, architects, artists set to gather

By Sonya Ellingboe

sellingboe@ourcolorado news.com The 2013 Biennial of the Americas will bring together ideas, artists and culture, focusing on the Americas from Canada to Chile.

A four-day festival of ideas will launch the 2013 Biennial of the Americas with ticketed forums focused on “Unleashing Human Potential: Reinventing Communities, Business and Education.”

From July 16 to Sept. 2, “Draft Urbanism” is an um-

brella title that will bring free public events highlighting art, architecture, film and performances from across the Americas.

Readers will want to check for more information at: biennialoftheamericas. org, but we provide a sampler of the wealth of programming planned.

International leaders will interact with local thinkers in four ticket forums at the Buell Theatre on July 16-19.

Tickets: $50 and $25.

• July 16, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. — “Unleashing Human Potential” — Journalist

Tina Brown will moderate a panel with John Malone, chairman of Liberty Global Inc. and Liberty Media Corporation; Eric Schmidt, executive chairman of Google; and career diplomat Arturo Sarukhan, chairman of Global Solutions.

• July 17, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. — “Reinventing Communities and How We Live,” moderated by Arianna Huffington, Huffington Post.

• July 18, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

— “Reinventing Business as Usual,” moderated by Don Tapscott, authority on innovation.

• July 19, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. — “Reinventing Education for the Global Market,” moderated by Patricia Janiot, senior anchor, CNN en Espanol and CNN Latino.

Free evening cultural festivals in the inaugural week: • July 16 — Art Opening:

Draft Urbanism, 7:30 p.m., McNichols Building, brings together international artists and architects.

• July 17 — Canada Night, 7 to 11 p.m. at Sustainability Park, 2500 Lawrence St., Denver. A block party with RedLine Gallery’s “Imagined Realities” exhibit and more.

• July 18 — Mexico Night, 6:30 p.m., presented by the Mexican Cultural Center and Denver Film Society, with music, dancing, traditional food and the film “Bajo la Misma Luna” (Under the Same Moon).

• July 19-- Denver Night, “Music for Animals,” 6:30 to 11 p.m. at Denver Civic Center Park with Nick Cave’s “HEARD-DAM,” dancing horse soundsuits, music, video art and dance, including an opera performance for dogs, accompanied by the Colorado Symphony and a performance by the

Dancers in Nick Cave’s “Heard” soundsuits will perform at Denver Civic Center at 8 p.m. July 19 in a free Biennial Denver Night program called “Music for Animals.” Courtesy photo Denver band Fray.

Draft Urbanism cultural events will be throughout Denver until Sept. 2, including an architectural installation at the 16th Street Mall with butterflies.

Special art exhibits: Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, Denver Art Museum, Museo de las Americas, Clyfford Still Museum, RedLine Gallery, Denver

Botanic Gardens, Center for Visual Arts, the McNichols Building, Skyline Park and Denver Digerati — the electronic billboards in downtown’s theater district, Denver Film Society, DIA, Denver Museum of Nature & Science, Su Teatro and Platte Forum.

See biennialoftheamericas.org website for details and, probably, more events.

‘Hairspray’ a dream show for local actress Evergreen company stages colorful play

By Sonya Ellingboe

sellingboe@ourcolorado news.com Twenty-year-old Bailey Walton plays Tracy Turnblad in what she describes as her dream show, ”Hairspray,” which runs from July 12 to Aug. 4 at the Evergreen Players’ Center/Stage.

She plays the pleasingly plump Baltimore teen who rushes home after school daily to watch the Corny Collins dance show on television, wishing she could be on it.

She says she worked in “Magic Moments” recently with percussionist Tad Worley, who told her about Evergreen’s auditions for “Hairspray.” She landed the part and rehearsals started May 19.

The year is 1962. Tracy lives with her large, shy mother and supportive father in a small apartment where her mother takes in ironing.

When she does get a place on the show, she determines to integrate it, replacing the once a month

Centennial actress Bailey Walton plays the lead role, Tracy Turnblad, in Evergreen Players’ production of “Hairspray.” Courtesy photo “Negro Night.” Complications arise and Tracy becomes a leader, dethroning the reigning teen queen and capturing the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin — as well as being an accomplished dancer.

The colorful show has a good story line and many big production numbers.

It opened on Broadway in August 2002 and played until January 2009, plus expanding to national tours and a London run. Music is by Marc Shaiman, lyrics

by Shaiman and Scott Wittman, with book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan. It’s based on the film written and directed by John Waters.

Brenda Billings is director of “Hairspray” and Alane Worley, who worked at Country Dinner Playhouse for many years, is choreographer. The company first rehearsed dance numbers at ATA, the local dance studio Worley and Paul Dwyer operate.

Bailey and her brother and father have performed often over the years at Littleton’s Town Hall Arts Center. Her first show was “Annie” in 2004.

She attended Cherry Creek High School for a year then completed an online high school course because she was working at the Arvada Center.

She became a nanny for Elizabeth and Tim Welch’s daughter and lived in New York with them for six months. (Town Hall fans will remember the couple with operatic voices. Elizabeth landed a job with the touring company of “Phantom of the Opera” and is now working in the show New York, where Tim has

if you go “Hairspray” plays July 12 to Aug. 14 at Evergreen Players’ Center/Stage, 27608 Fireweed Drive, Evergreen.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays (no show July 13); 2 p.m. Sundays; extra show at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 14. Tickets: $15 to $25, 303-674-4934, evergreenplayers.org. opened a voice studio.)

At present, Walton teaches at a child development center during the day and has been teaching dance and acting for Christian Youth Theater, which she plans to resume.

In the fall, she will begin online classes at CU Denver in English, writing and child development, while continuing to teach.

And, of course, she’ll watch the audition notices in case another dream opportunity comes along.

Complicated theater schedules are a given in her family’s Centennial home. She mentioned that her dad will perform in Parker’s upcoming summer production of “Oklahoma” and brother Burke is cast in Boulder Dinner Theatre’s “The Full Monty.”

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The Independent 19

July 11, 2013

‘Nest’ finds new home in Greenwood Village After a number of months installed in a busy downtown Denver location, sculptor Erick Johnson’s “The Nest” has been moved next to a peaceful pond at Westlands Park, 5701 S. Quebec St. in Greenwood Village. The installation is a collaboration of the Museum Outdoor Arts, Greenwood Village Arts and Humanities Council and Demiurge Design.

Johnson said: “Throughout our natural world and among many different species of birds, fish, insects and mammals, a nest is an amazing, instinctively created environment for raising a family.

It not only serves as a shield from the elements, but as a fortress against other threatening natural predators.”

Wildlife Experience is topic

“The Wildlife Experience: More than a Museum” is director Gary Debus’ topic on July 15 when he speaks to the Highlands Ranch Historical Society at 7 p.m. at Southridge Recreation Center, 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch. In addition, club members can tour the museum on July 19 at 11 a.m. at a group rate of $9. hrhistoricalsociety@ comcast.net.

Hundreds of bands scheduled

The annual Underground Mu-

sic Showcase is scheduled in the South Broadway Arts District July 19-22. We are told that more than 400 bands are scheduled to perform in a number of venues, starting at 8 pm. each night. A bracelet, good for all four days at $35, is available at the box office, near the Goodwill Mainstage at First Avenue and Broadway. Information and schedule: theums.com/ lineup. NPR radio Open Air, 1340 AM, will broadcast from the UMS.

The buzz about bees

“Meet the Beekeeper” at Hudson Gardens from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. July 20. Watch the beekeepers working at the apiary and learn about management techniques and the process of starting a hive if interested. Free and open to the public.

Dr. Colorado’s in town

“Coloroddities” is the title of Dr. Tom Noel’s program at 7 p.m.

July 16 at Bemis Library, 6014 S. Datura St., Littleton. He will give a slide presentation on strange things about our state. Free. 303795-3961.

Sazon gets jazzy

Local jazz ensemble Sazon will perform at its first Sunday Jazz Concert from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. July 14 at Garcia’s Mexican

Restaurant, 5050 S. Syracuse St. in DTC. Ensemble members are Bobby Trujillo, Joe Lopez, Norma Tell and guest Ron Jolly. Tickets: $15 advance; $18 door, BrownPaperTickets.com, 1-800-838-3006.

Littleton Jazz Festival

Sazon will also play at the Littleton Jazz Festival on Aug. 16 at Town Hall Arts Center, 2450 W. Main Street in Downtown Littleton. Also on the program: Highlands Ranch-based After Midnight with Benny Goodman arrangements and pianist Neil Bridge.

Tickets: $25, on sale July 15 at townhallartscenter.com, 303-7942787 ext 5.

Palmer Lake Historical Society

“The Western Museum of Mining and Industry: Past, Present and Future” will be presented at 7 p.m. July 18 at the Palmer Lake Town Hall, 28 Valley Crescent, Palmer Lake. Richard Sauers will talk about programs and plans at the 27-acre Colorado Springs museum. Free. Palmerdividehistory. org.

“The Nest” by sculptor Erick Johnson was installed by Museum Outdoor Arts at Westlands Park, 5701 S. Quebec St., Greenwood Village. Photo courtesy of MOA

curtain time

Getting around

“17 Border Crossings” brings artist Thaddeus Phillips back to Denver for a three-week run of his latest production, a stage voyage to Bosnia, Morocco, Cuba, Brazil, Serbia, Colombia, Bali, Holland, Czech Republic, Israel, Croatia, Jordan and Mexico. Performances will be at Buntport Theater, 717 Lipan St., July 11 to 27: 8 p.m.

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets: $15, 2-for-1 on Thursdays. Buntport.com/ reservations.

Foothills theater

“Hairspray” by Mark Shaiman, Scott Whitman, Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, based on the film written by John Waters, plays July 12 to Aug. 14 at Evergreen Players’ Center/Stage, 27608 Fireweed Drive, Evergreen. Tickets: $15-$25, 303-6744934, evergreenplayers.org.

Theater tradition

“Fiddler on the Roof” by Jerry Bock, Sheldon Harnick and Joseph Stein, based on Sholem Aleichem’s stories, is presented

by Phamaly Theatre Company from July 18 to August 11 at the Space Theatre, Denver Performing Arts Complex. Performances: July 18 to Aug. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays; Thursday, July 18; Monday, July 29; 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $30-$34 ($17 pre-

Parker

ach-Continued from Page 17 ment flights. and The service offers 10 channels of live ance television and 75 on-demand programs stian to wi-fi enabled devices such as smart she phones, tablets and laptops.

Usage is unlimited and only requires a begin Southwest passenger to view a Dish comnver mercial. child con-

Bubbles and bites for charity

she’ll The American Wine Society Denver ticesChapter invites you to celebrate summer m op-wines with bubbles and bites, beginning at 6 p.m. July 24 at The Washington Park eaterBoathouse (Exposition Avenue between n inDowning and Franklin). nnial The effervescent event benefits Sense thatof Security, an organization that helps to m inensure that breast cancer patients receive mmerthe financial assistance they need while oma”undergoing treatment. Your participation castin this event helps to add to patients’ qualatre’sity of life during this difficult time (check it out at www.senseofsecurity.org). Sense

views July 18, 19 and industry night, July 29.) 303-893-4100, phamaly.org. Audiodescribed and ASL-signed performance on Sunday, July 28, with free backstage sensory tour at 11 (reservations needed, 303-5750005.)

On Edge

“House of Blue Leaves” by John Guare plays July 19 to Aug. 11 at the Edge Theatre’s new venue, 1560 Teller St., Lakewood. Performances: 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Theedgetheatre. com

Send uS your newS Colorado Community Media welcomes event listings and other submissions.

Please note our new submissions emails. events and club listings calendar@ourcoloradonews.com School notes, such as honor roll and dean’s list schoolnotes@ourcoloradonews.com

Military briefs militarynotes@ourcoloradonews.com General press releases Submit through our website Letters to the editor letters@ourcoloradonews.com Fax information to 303-566-4098 Mail to 9137 S. Ridgeline Blvd., Ste. 210, Highlands Ranch, CO 80129

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Up Greeley way

“Escanaba in da Moonlight” by Jeff Daniels plays at 7:30 p.m. July 13, 14, 24, 25, 26 and 2 p.m. July 14 at Little Theatre of the Rockies’ Norton Theatre in Gray Hall, University of Northern Colorado central campus in Greeley. Tickets: 970-351-2200, www. unco.edu/tickets. (See the website for other summer productions.)

It’s a wonder

“Wonder of the World” by David LindsayAbair plays July 26 to Sept. 1 at Miners Alley Playhouse, 1224 Washington Ave., Golden.

Performances: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays: 6 p.m. Sundays, except 2 p.m. Sept. 1.

Tickets: $19-$29.50, 303-935-3044.

of Security is my pet charity, and I’ve been fortunate to help raise thousands of dollars for this worthy nonprofit for several years.

The Boathouse overlooks the south shore of Smith Lake in the northern half of Washington Park, and is close to Exposition and Downing. Parking is available along the perimeter of the park or there is limited parking within the park using the following entrances: Marion and Virginia (north side), Exposition and Downing (west side), Kentucky and Franklin (east side) or Mississippi and Franklin (south side).

To order tickets, go to www.blacktiecolorado.com/rsvp/rsvp.cfm?eventcode=% 26%3E%2B%26L2%40%5B%5F. Penny Parker’s “Mile High Life” column gives insights into the best events, restaurants, businesses, parties and people throughout the metro area. Parker also writes for Blacktie-Colorado.com. You can subscribe and read her columns (Monday, Wednesday and Friday) at www.pennyparker.blacktie-colorado.com. Send her Mile High Life column tips and eavesdroppings at parkerp1953@gmail.com or at 303-6195209.

BACK TO WORK 50+ is

a collaboration between AARP Foundation and Arapahoe/Douglas Works! that connects jobseekers age 50 and older to free job search services and in-demand entry level opportunities in health care and other industries.

CALL TOLL FREE TO GET STARTED TODAY!

(855) 850-2525 AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity

20

20 The Independent

July 11, 2013

Mellow Mushroom makes colorful debut Incentives approved

for Sprouts location

Well before tasting the Mellow Mushroom’s food, the restaurant’s new Lone Tree building feeds its guests’ eyes with colorful, whimsical decor.

The visual appetizers start on Park Meadows Drive, where the orange-and-blue building — topped by a cartoon mushroom flashing a peace sign and tossing a pizza — greets visitors to the Entertainment District. A smiling, pizza-laden waiter sculpted in yellow and blue metal stands at the restaurant’s entrance. The sensory stimulus doesn’t let up inside, where a 1970s theme plays out in disco balls, color-splashed ceiling supports and wall murals on which butterflies, mushrooms and musicians appear to dreamily float.

“The decor is fabulous,” said Lone Tree resident Kim Lenihan, one of hundreds who dined there during the restaurant’s June 30 grand opening.

“Fantastic,” agreed Bob Lenihan.

“Groovy,” decided a man at the bar.

The new look is a far cry from any of the building’s previous tenants, which included the Blue Rox Grill, Hops, Kassai and Grazio.

Franchise owners Sharon and Morris Purcel and their son Shane stripped the restaurant’s interior down to the shell, investing about $2 million to redesign the building to their standards. That included greatly expanding the patio with garage doors and in-floor heating to allow open-air or enclosed yearround dining, reconfiguring the kitchen and taking the building’s

By Tom Munds

tmunds@ourcoloradonews. com

The Mellow Mushroom’s June 29 grand opening drew happy crowds to its space in the Lone Tree Entertainment District off Park Meadows Drive. Photo by Jane Reuter exterior from bland to brilliant.

“The design and colors reflect the fun that’s to be had inside,” Sharon Purcel said. “It’s familyoriented, and it’s also after-hoursoriented.”

Drink and food menu offerings carry on the quirky theme — with names like the Kosmic Karma, Mellowterranean and Thai Dye pizzas — but Purcel said the restaurant’s pizza is serious business.

“Our pizza crust is what makes it extremely special,” Purcel said.

“Our specialty is the spring water and the molasses. It’s a very creative recipe.”

Mellow Mushroom also offers

build-your-own salads, calzones and hoagies.

The Lone Tree location is the third in Colorado, preceded by The Streets at Southglenn and downtown Denver locations.

“We’re just thrilled to be part of the community,” Purcel said.

“The population is exactly who we thought would enjoy the restaurant.

“We definitely want to embrace the community. I certainly hope the community embraces us.”

The 121-store Georgia-based chain opened its first restaurant in 1974. Purcel said more sites are planned in Colorado.

Englewood City Council gave unanimous approval July 1 to a package of reimbursement incentives for the development planned at 5001 S. Broadway, the site of the former Larry Miller Nissan dealership.

The incentive, in the form of a total of $250,000 in tax rebates, will reimburse the developer for making public improvements on Broadway to include installation of a traffic signal and realignment of road lanes.

“I think this a a good negotiated use of the city’s incentive program to help foster development,” Council Member Joe Jefferson said before the approval vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Jim Woodward voted for the incentives and said the planned development will be a major business addition to the south end of Broadway.

“Providing incentives for this project will bring dividends for Englewood,” he said. “This will be a long-term plus for our community.”

Cadence Capital Investments plans to demolish the former Larry Miller building and, on the 3.7acre site, will construct a project that will include a 27,000-squarefoot building for Sprouts Farmers Market, an 8,075-square-foot site for Advance Auto Parks and about 8,000 square feet that will

13th Annual Taste of

Western Welcome Week and Silent Auction

THURSDAY AUGUST 15TH 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Littleton Center Courtyard 2255 W. Berry Avenue

T HA n K Yo U T o o U R Sp o n S o R S

Featuring “tastes” of local restaurants and an array of wines, beers and non-alcoholic beverages. Receive personal Western Welcome Week mementos, and bid on a collection of fabulous items in the Silent Auction.

Tickets

$20 each in advance, $25 each at the event Designated Driver Ticket $10 at the event Must be 21+ years of age T IC K ET S AVA I L A BL E AT Albertson’s LLC Liquors 7450 S. University Blvd., Centennial 303-773-9696 Western Welcome Week Office 5890 South Bemis Street 303-794-4870 Western Welcome is a 501(c)(3) Public Charity

be leased to a retail business or a restaurant.

Alan White, community development director, noted the incentives will be provided by rebating taxes that would have been paid to the city.

The agreement calls for the company to receive a rebate of 50 percent of the building use tax paid on materials used in the construction, and 50 percent of the taxes collected on furniture, fixtures and equipment.

The rebate is not to exceed $68,000.

In addition, the developer will receive a 50 percent rebate of sales taxes collected not to exceed $182,000 or for three years, whichever comes first.

The money is to repay the company for funds used to make used public improvements on South Broadway, including the traffic-signal installation. The incentives are to cover the actual cost of the improvements but are not to exceed $250,000.

According to information provided to council members, it is estimated that Sprouts will do $20 million in business the first full year of operation, with about $4 million of the total receipts being subject to sales taxes. That is because sales taxes are not collected on grocery items.

It is estimated that the remaining retail spaces in the development will do about $3.85 million in business the first full year of operation, which will mean the companies will pay Englewood about $275,000 in sales taxes. The sales tax collections to the city are expected to increase to about $326,000 in three years.

ShopLocalColorado.com

jreuter@ourcoloradonews.com

ShopLocalColorado.com

Big changes coming at site once occupied

by Larry Miller Nissan

By Jane Reuter

Local ads, coupons, special offers & more

Restaurant is bright addition to Lone Tree

OurColoradoNews.com

21-Color

The Independent 21

July 11, 2013

d n

milestones Education

Daniel Thomas, of Littleton, named to the spring 2013 dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Alexandra Hause, of Littleton, earned a s or a bachelor of science degree in biomedical engineering with distinction from Worcesde- ter Polytechnic Institute. the Jennifer Anne Carda, Molly R. Carpend by ter and Allie Lynn Lundberg, of Littleton, have were named to the spring 2013 dean’s list at Iowa State University. Carda is studying the industrial engineering. Carpenter is studyte of use n the nt of ture,

ing community and regional planning.

Lundberg is studying animal science.

Katelyn Maloney, of Littleton, was named to the spring 2013 dean’s list at Rockhurst University.

Military

Air Force Airman Aaron L. Torrez graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. Torrez completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force

ceed

core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Torrez is the son of Kim Schaible, of Littleton, and a 2012 graduate of Dakota Ridge High School, Littleton.

Air Force Airman Courtney N. Jones graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

Jones completed an intensive, eightweek program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Jones is the daughter of Beth Dearborn, of Conifer, and Randy Jones, of Littleton.

She is a 2011 graduate of Dakota Ridge High School.

Bega

BBQ grand finale.

“The Littleton/Bega Sister City Committee is very proud of the relationship that has developed between the communities,” writes Charlie Blosten, the city’s director of public services, in his council communication.

“Bega Park is a focal point for downtown Littleton, with commemorative plaques and flags representing the sister-city exchange.”

The vote to change the street name was six to one on first reading, with Councilor Peggy Cole dissenting.

“I think it is confusing for people not familiar with Littleton to have a different name on that very short block, particularly if they are in the left lane of Main Street in congested traffic and are looking for Rio Grande,” she said.

Blosten noted the park’s address is actually 2250 W. Main Street, as listed by South Suburban Parks and Recreation.

Continued from Page 1

oper ebate o exears,

contingent will be officially welcomed to town at 10 a.m. on Aug. 15 at the park, with a reception complete with an 18-piece band and refreshments.

“The public is encouraged to join in the fun on Main Street and help show our sister-city guests the true Littleton hospitality,” said Kelli Narde, the city’s director of communications.

Led by Barbara Westmacott and her husband, Bob, the 25 Australians will stay for 10 days with their Littleton host families.

There are lots of fun things planned for them, including riding in the 85th Western Welcome Week parade on Aug. 17, a dinner at Mount Vernon Country Club, a bus tour of Colorado Springs and a Barn Dance &

the make s on the The ctual ut are

ation rs, it ll do first bout eipts That t col-

e ree de$3.85 Volleyball was a popular way to have fun and pass the time at Cornerstone Park on July 4. People arrived early in t full Cornerstone and nearby Belleview Park to claim a spot and then took part in activities and games until it got dark and will it was time for the fireworks show to celebrate Independence Day. Photo by Tom Munds y Ensales nic, play games and to watch the fireworks, ns to even though the vast majority of July 4 acrease tivities like the games and attractions didn’t ears. get underway until about 3 p.m.

Continued from Page 1 The main activity that began earlier was the fishing derby that was held in the lake the parks throughout the day to provide at Progress Park. Fishing is traditionally help where it was needed. pretty good because the state usually stocks Belleview, Cornerstone and Progress, the the lake the night before the derby with an three parks clustered near the intersection abundance of trout, but reports indicate of West Belleview Avenue and South Win- that this year’s angling was only fair. dermere Street, were again the location for Other early-starting activities include the July 4 celebration. The parks are open Belleview Park’s miniature train and chilall day and people generally begin arriving dren’s zoo, which open at 11 a.m. A small early to pick a good spot to set up to pic- fee is charged for both attractions.

Complex

Project Continued from Page 1

“Our main objective was to improve on the existing plan and make it more economically viable,” said Jennifer McElyea, managing director. To that end, they squared off the site plan, moved the smaller retail shops closer to Broadway and improved access.

Plans for the 77-acre project include 250,000 square feet of commercial property and up to 500 apartments and 400 singlefamily homes, including a mix of townhouses, patio homes, cluster homes, detached homes and whatever else the builders deem marketable. The zoning allows up to 900 residential units total, but the developers don’t expect to have that many.

The proposed commercial portion is oriented toward Broadway, with boutique shops in front, medium-size boxes — like Kohl’s or a grocery store — behind. In the middle are a 3.5-acre park and two high-end apartment buildings, limited to no more than four stories. Single-family homes will fill the east side, backing up to the existing residential neighborhood.

Several of the board members said they

hope the development will connect to the broader community, especially since the park will sit at what’s nearly the highest point in the city. They also suggested incorporating the site’s history somehow, in deference to the many current residents who worked at Marathon Oil over the years.

Marathon moved out of the complex in 2000, and Denver oil tycoon David B. Richardson bought the land for $14.5 million in December of that year. After battling away a Lowe’s Home Improvement store in 2004, neighbors initially expressed cautious optimism about the mixed-use, “new urbanism” project he proposed, similar to East 29th Avenue in Stapleton. It became more and more controversial as it worked its way through the public process, however, with residents concerned about things like density, traffic and infrastructure.

But the economy tanked before construction began, and the land has been dormant ever since.

Planner Mark Rudnicki was on the board during the first two go-rounds.

“I’m getting tired,” he joked. “If we approve this, please build the thing.”

He urged the Watt representatives to include housing that would appeal to empty nesters and utilize architecture that reflects the rest of Littleton.

What's happening this Week?

Want to know what clubs, art exhibits, meetings and cultural events are happening in your area and the areas around you? Visit our website at www.ourcoloradonews.com/ calendar.

22-Color

22 The Independent

Professional

July 11, 2013

clubs in your community

American Association of University Women, Littleton-Englewood Branch invites baccalaureates to participate in activities that further goals of equity for women and girls, lifelong education and positive societal change. Meetings usually are Mondays each month, September through May, at Koelbel Library, Orchard Road and Holly Street, Centennial. Social time is followed by business meeting and informative program on subjects ranging from public policy issues to poetry. Call Pam Hansen, 303-753-0838.

American Business Women’s Association meets on the second Wednesday each month at 6:30 p.m. welcoming women, working or not, to Success Chapter programs for success and positive living. Call Lori Smith at 303-688-3100 ext. 360 or e-mail loris@intermountainrea.com for upcoming speakers and events at Marriott Denver South, 10345 Park Meadows Drive, Littleton.

Contacts Unlimited is a business and professional leads group that meets at Courtesy Ford, 8252 S. Broadway, Littleton in the meeting room on the first, second, and third Thursday of every month. Meeting time is 8-9:15 a.m. Visitors are welcome. Call Jenifer at 303-221-6550.

Destination Success provides an opportunity for professionals to gather, form connections, expand relationships and exchange information. Business

Success meets every fourth Tuesday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Bear Rock Cafe, 7903 South Broadway, Suite B, Littleton.

As with other networking groups, membership and referrals are not required. To RSVP and for information, e-mail Info@behindthemooninc.com or call 303-250-4528.

Nurse Link/Non-Practicing and Part-Time Nurses’ Association meets from 12:30-2:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month at Grace Presbyterian Church, 251 Sterne Blvd., Littleton. All nurses are invited to join us for a medical presentation. For further information, call Mary Callaway at 303-471-2243.

Women Investment Group Master Mind Group meets to empower all women to build a real financial freedom through the power of real estate in any market condition. We network, share ideas, leads, resources and encourage each other. We meet once a month.

For meeting information, call Lorena 303-981-6539 or e-mail WomenInvestmentGroup@comcast.net.

Recreation Deer Creek Women’s Golf Association. The 2010 golf season is just around the corner and we’re looking forward to a terrific new year! If you’re looking for a challenging course and the company of friendly women on Tuesday mornings, please consider joining our league. We’ve got the best deal in town. If interested please contact Chris Jackson at chris. dcwga@q.com or 303-347-9193.

Homestead 9-Hole Golf Women’s Golf League is accepting membership applications for the 2012 season. You do not need a GHIN number to join, but can acquire one as you play. We golf Monday mornings, April through October. To join this fun and active group, contact Barbara McGovern, barbmc30@gmail.com.

Homestead Golf Course is at South Kipling and W. Hampden Ave., 11500 W. Hampden. Call 720-963-5181.

Ladies Golf League at Raccoon Creek Golf Course, Littleton, is accepting new members. Call 303-973-4653.

Stroller Strides is a group fitness program that provides moms with a challenging workout and the opportunity to build relationships and gain the emotional support needed to adjust to the tremendous life change called motherhood. Classes are offered at 9:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at DeKoevend Park, near University and Arapahoe, and at 9:30 a.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at Clement Park, near Wadsworth and Bowles. For more information, visit the Stroller Strides Web site at www.strollerstrides.com or call Kathy or Karen Zawadzki at 888-6840641 or e-mail kandk@strollerstrides. net.

Meadows Women’s Golf League offers relaxing Tuesday mornings of friendly golf for ladies at the Meadows Golf Course, 6937 S. Simms St., near Ken-Caryl Ranch. The league plays 18 holes weekly from mid-April to midOctober. This fun group competes for prizes while playing from the red tees.

Afterward, lunch can be ordered on the patio overlooking the course. Call Laura at 303-526-9598.

Creative Counseling Center is a network of mental health providers with offices in Denver, Aurora, Lakewood and Littleton. To meet therapists or to learn about locations, scheduling and fees, visit www.ccc-denver.com or call 303-267-2310.

Rec and Rock for ages 10-14 meets

English Conversation Sessions.

from 7-11 p.m. every first and third Saturdays at the Goodson Recreation Center in Littleton. The cost is $6. Call 303-798-2476 ext. 11.

Go to the Bemis Public Library Friday mornings from 9-10:30 a.m. to practice English in an informal group and learn about American culture. No registration is required. Call 303-795-3961.

Rocky Mountain Basketball Academy club, expert training for youth basketball players grades fifth through 12th meets twice per week and operates all year. Play in leagues and tournaments. Send inquiries to ronkburgin@ yahoo.com.

Services

Homecoming Inc. offers caregivers of low-income seniors who are frail, disabled or unable to live alone without care in Adams, Arapahoe, Jefferson and Denver counties respite care. Assistance includes personal care and homemak-

What’s on the horizon.

Lone Tree, Colorado

ing. Call Pamela Dombrowski-Wilson or Trini Martinez at 303-526-2318 for an application and information.

Nutrition classes. Free bootcamp class meets at 8:30 a.m. three Saturdays per month at L-Town Nutrition, 1360 W. Littleton Blvd., Littleton. Go to the park for a fun, energizing start to the weekend. Visit our Facebook pages for updates: Littleton 24Fit Club or L-Town Nutrition. Also offered is a Body Exchange Challenge. This consists of weekly meetings to discuss both nutrition and fitness. We deliver all of the tools that you need to help you reach your goal. There is an optional fitness class offered after the class. The class meets Wednesdays at noon or 6 p.m. You can join the challenge anytime, the fees are prorated. Visit L-Town Nutrition, call Gen McKenna at 303-730-2038 or email ltownnutrition@gmail.com to sign up.

Single Dads Resource Center Inc., a nonprofit organization, offers free parenting classes such as “The Ins and Outs of Single Fathering Parenting” focused on single fathers. Classes are from 5:307:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 6322 S. Lakeview St., Littleton. Call Jamey O’Donnell, founder and executive director of the group, at 720-298-2021 or e-mail info@sdrci.org.

Summit Cancer Solutions is a nonprofit organization that offers exercise programs in the Denver Metro area to adult cancer survivors. Our goal is to improve the health and well being of cancer survivors through exercise.

Contact us at 303-409-2206, e-mail us at info@summitcancersolutions.org or visit www.summitcancersolutions.org.

Social American Needlepoint Guild, Colorado Columbine Chapter, meets third Mondays each month, except August and December. Call Doris at 303-403-8703.

Antique Club meets the second Saturday each month from 10 a.m. to noon at Antique Gallery, 5501 S. Broadway, Littleton. Call 303-794-8100.

Arapahoe County Young Democrats meetings are the third Thursday each month. Call Benjamin Godfrey at 303-745-3418 or e-mail bhgodfrey@ qwest.net.

Lone Tree, Colorado

Put us on your summer calendar.

The RidgeGate community is thriving this season, with many fun, free events that will inspire you and your family to reconnect with nature, move your body, and hear great music. Plan now to join us.

Thursday, July 18, 6:30 –8pm

RidgeGate’s historical Schweiger Ranch. This month,

Free Nature Hike Series: Nature Journaling

hear amazing true wilderness stories from Jeff Rucks,

Location: Register online to receive meeting location details

retired education manager with Colorado Parks &

Discover new ways of perceiving the outdoors. We’ll

Wildlife. Visit www.thewildlifeexperience.org for

hike with a trained naturalist from South Suburban

more information and to register.

Parks and Recreation, then practice journaling techniques while sitting quietly and observing nature during the

Tuesday, July 30, 6:30 –7:30pm

sunset. Register at ridgegate.com for this free,

Free Sunset Yoga in the Park

family-friendly hike. (Age 8 and up)

Location: Belvedere Park (between RidgeGate Parkway and RidgeGate Circle on Belvedere Lane)

RidgeGate Presents Tunes on the Terrace: Sons and Brothers - Saturday, July 27 Allan Harris - Friday, August 2 Location: Lone Tree Arts Center

Enjoy live music in a beautiful outdoor setting at the state-of-the-art Lone Tree Arts Center. Coming up, see Sons and Brothers’ upbeat Rockabilly and bluegrass stylings, or enjoy a romantic date night out listening

Join RidgeGate, South Suburban Parks and Recreation and the Lone Tree Recreation Center for a free yoga class in Belvedere Park. Bring your own yoga mat, or one will be provided for you. In case of heavy rain or lightning, class will be cancelled. No yoga experience is necessary. No need to register - just drop in!

Wednesday, August 7, 11:30am –1pm

to romantic jazz vocalist Allan Harris. $15 lawn, $20

The RidgeGate Walk Concerts: Martini Shot

reserved seats. Tickets at www.lonetreeartscenter.org.

Location: Outside the Lone Tree Rec Center

Saturday, July 27, 7– 8:30pm

The Wildlife Experience: Nature Nights Campfire Series

Enjoy a summertime lunch break with live music in beautiful Prairie Sky Park, courtesy of the South Suburban Parks and Recreation District. This month, enjoy Martini Shot, a high energy, six-piece rock band

Location: Schweiger Ranch

from southern Colorado. Take a walk on the paved path

Come gather around a fire for an evening of s’mores,

around the park, bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the music.

stories and activities with The Wildlife Experience at

Amazing Titan Toastmasters meets from 6-8 p.m. Mondays at Marie Callender’s, Dry Creek Court and Broadway.

Call Art Gomen at 303-762-9726.

AARP Greater Littleton Chapter meets at 1 p.m. the third Monday each month at Douglas H. Buck Community Recreation Center, 2004 W. Powers Ave. Meetings feature informational programs or entertainment, refreshments and social time. July and December meetings feature potlucks. Anyone 50 and older can join. Local chapter dues are $5 per year. For information on meetings, call 303-578-2669.

Bemis Evening Book Group meets at the library, 6014 S. Datura St., in Littleton, the third Monday each month at 7 p.m. Call 303-795-3961.

Bemis Knitting Group invites knitters to the library’s knitting group, which meets Fridays at 2 p.m. in Sophie’s Place. Just bring a pair of needles and a skein of yarn. Beginners learn skills such as casting on, knitting, pearling, and casting off, while experienced knitters get project ideas and provide hints and tips. The group is creating mittens, scarves and hats for elderly library users at Bemis’ sister libraries in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria.

Bemis Nonfiction Writers’ Group.

Unpublished nonfiction writers of personal essays and/or articles meet the second Monday each month at 6:30 p.m. in the café area of Sophie’s Place at the library. Take a pencil and five copies of a recent essay, no longer than 650 words, to share and read aloud. Elaine Kallos, a language arts instructor, facilitates the group.

Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge No.1650 meets at 8 p.m.

Thursdays at 5749 S. Curtice St., Littleton. Call 303-794-1811.

Boards of Directors of the Southgate

Water District and the Southgate Sanitation District, Arapahoe and Douglas counties, meet at 4 p.m. the second Tuesday each month at office of the districts, 3722 E. Orchard Road, Littleton.

Agenda information for each meeting is posted at Southgate office not less than 24 hours before meetings.

Boy Scouts of America Pack 633 welcomes all first- through fifth-graders to join any time during the year. Call Nick Erlenburg at 303-471-4172.

The Breakfast Club Singles 50 Plus meets on the second Saturday of each month at Maggiano’s at 7401 S. Clinton Street, Englewood at 9 a.m. Arrival is 8:30 a.m. and buffet starts at 9 a.m.

Must RSVP the Hotline at 303-794-3332 for reservation.

Chatfield Sertoma Club meets the first and third Mondays at Bistro Aspen Grove, 7301 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton.

Contact Linda Holloway at 303-423-4197 or linda@bessieshope.org.

Coffee and Conversation Group connects people in the community who like to discuss books, current events and any topic of interest. The group meets from 10-11 a.m. the second Monday of each month in Sophie’s Place at Bemis Public Library, 6014 S. Datura St., Littleton. Free snacks and beverages are provided. Call 303-795-3961.

The Columbine Genealogical and Historical Society has a program meeting on the second Tuesday of each month, except in June, July, August, and December. A social meeting is the second Tuesday of December. A genealogy workshop is the third Tuesday of each month, except in June, July, August, and December. Contact JoAnn LaGuardia at 303-770-3420 or visit www.rootsweb. com/~cocghs/index.htm.

Columbine Ladies is a warm, welcoming, fun loving group of ladies.

We offer a variety of activities: regular or duplicate bridge, canasta, Mah Jongg, Pinochle and we’re very willing to teach you how to play. We have monthly luncheons at new and different places as well as take side trips to museums, plays, sporting events, movies, etc. There are special quarterly events and our summer ice cream social will be coming up. We also do community outreach through Shiloh House, a support program for teen moms. Annual dues are only $20.

For more information or to make a reservation to visit us at our next luncheon, call Iris McMullen at 303-794-3739.

Current Events Group meets the first Wednesdays of the month from 1-3 p.m. at the Buck Recreation Center, 2004 Powers Ave. in Littleton. Call 303730-4609.

Daughters of the American Revolution, Mount Rosa Chapter meets at 1 p.m. every first Monday of the month at Koelbel Library, 5955 S. Holly St. in Littleton. Call Donna Elin at 303-7816400.

Daughters of the British Empire is a national organization with a philanthropic purpose. For almost a century, DBE has been a common bond for women of British heritage living in the United States. DBE is open to women who are citizens or residents of the United States who are of British Commonwealth birth or ancestry or who are married to men of British Commonwealth birth or ancestry. There are six chapters in Colorado, including chapters in Littleton, Englewood, Centennial, Evergreen and Boulder County. Call Chris at 303-683-6154 or Olive at 303-3471311 or visit www.dbecolorado.org and use the contact form available.

Discovery Club is a fun and exciting way to meet new friends and enjoy recreational activities. Activities include sports, arts and crafts, drama, singing, dancing, board and computer games, group and individual activities.

Volunteer opportunities exist for people older than 15. Student volunteers can earn community service hours. Club meets third Saturday each month at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 8817 South Broadway. Call Jenita Rhodes at 303-791-0659.

anitas d e tleton. ing is than

3 raders all Nick

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23-Sports-Color

LittletonsPorts

Golfers gear up for solheim cup Match-play format has unique twist

By Jim Benton

jbenton@ourcoloradonews.com

Some captains and potential players of the European Solheim Cup team recently visited and played the Colorado Golf Club during a week off in the LPGA and European Tour schedules.

The Solheim Cup, the women’s version ets the of the Ryder Cup, pits 12 golfers from the spen United States against 12 European golfers eton. and is scheduled Aug. 13-18 at the Colorado 3-4197 Golf Club in Parker.

Coaches and players met with the media p con- July 2, and almost everyone delivered the ho like same message that anything can happen in d any match play. from “In match play, anything can happen,” each said assistant captain Annika Sorenstam.

Public “Some players feel they are representing n. Free their country and continent. They just soak d. Call it up and find another gear they might not find in other tournaments.

“It’s a putt here, it’s a shot here, it’s a match turned around.” m The Solheim Cup has a unique match each t, and play format. second Players will play fourball, in which each player plays their own ball throughout the y ach round. Each hole is won by the two-women t, and team whose player had the lowest score on ia at the hole and the team is awarded a point. If web. the teams tie, a half-point is given to each team.

Foursomes pit two-player teams and the golfers hit alternate shots. A point is awarddies. ed each hole to the team with the lowest ular score.

Jongg, In the 12 singles matches, all 24 players teach square off and golfers gain points or halves for each hole. aces as There will be 28 matches played over the , plays,three days of the tournament. are Four foursomes matches will be held ummer Aug. 16 starting at 7:30 a.m., with four fourWe ball matches set to begin at 1 p.m. On Aug. gh 17, foursome and fourball matches are or scheduled for the same times. $20.

The 12 singles matches begin at 12:30 res- p.m. Aug. 18. heon, There are 28 points up for grabs in the 9. team standings over the three days, with a the point awarded for each match won and half point garnered for each match that is tied. m Europe needs 14 points to retain the cup, nter, which it won in 2011 in Meath, Ireland. The 303Americans would need 14.5 points to earn theirs seventh straight victory on U.S. soil. evolu- Many purists argue that match play is t1 nth . in 81-

ire

The Independent 23 July 11, 2013

LPGA legend Annika Sorenstam, right, high-fives Dewi Claire Schreefel during a chipping contest at the Colorado Golf Club. Sorenstam is co-captain of the Solheim Cup’s European team. There will be 28 matches played over the three days of the Solheim Cup tournament at the Parker golf course. Photo by Chris Michlewicz boring because when a team or individual gets a commanding lead, their play tends to be cautious and conservative. However, the format often leads to more aggressive play, especially since each hole is a separate competition.

“It’s (Colorado Golf Club) a great course for match play, especially the back nine from 14 on could be fun holes,” said European captain Liselotte Neumann. “A lot of things could happen on those holes, there are short par 4s and par 5s that you can get on in two shots.

“There are some great holes, especially when it comes to playing maybe the best

ball matches. You have 16 when someone might want to go for it. In match play, you can have someone be more aggressive.”

Carlota Ciganda, a former Arizona State golfer from Pamplona, Spain, who turned pro two years ago, played on two European Junior Solheim Cup teams and enjoys match play.

“The whole format is fun, being a team member,” said Ciganda. “Match play is different and this course suits it well because you can take some risks and play it as a match play course. It’s going to be fun.”

Neumann, Sorenstam and assistant captain Carin Koch will have the difficult task

of matching partners for the fourball and foursomes matches.

“It’s about finding the right partners you are playing with,” said Sorenstam. “There are times you play with players and you try so hard but it always doesn’t fit.

“I can mention Suzann Pettersen. She’s a top player as an individual. She’s now No. 3 in the world. In the Solheim Cup she really rises to the top and she’s had some opportunities to make some winning putts. She was my partner a few times and together she elevated my game and I elevated her game. That the challenge of the captains, to find the right combinations.”

littleton girl wins drag racing title Teen takes second junior regional championship

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By Tom Munds o tmunds@ourcoloradonews.com nts tish Victoria Flores added to her or who collection of “hardware” as she mon- received her second consecutive six trophy for winning the 16- and apters 17-year-old age division at the al, National Hot Rod Association Jul Chris nior Drag Racing League’s Western 47- Conference Finals. g and “I have been drag racing for about seven years,” the 17-yearold said. “Most of my experience is in junior dragsters, but now I and also drive a 2010 Chevy Camaro ties in the high school division. That ma, is because I love drag racing. It’s a uter blast.” ties.

The junior dragster Western eople Conference Finals were held June can 24-29 at Bandimere Speedway in b Morrison. at St. Junior dragster competition 817 is open to 8- to 17-year-olds. The s at young drivers are in a vehicle that is half the size of the top fuel dragsters and is powered by a five-

horsepower, single-cylinder engine. The race is from a standing start to the finish line one-eighth of a mile down the track. Junior dragster drivers can complete the eighth-mile run in about eight seconds and can be traveling as fast as 85 mph when they cross the finish line.

Flores, who attended Columbine High School last year, said she started her racing career when her grandfather bought her a junior dragster.

“My grandfather, Rick Freeman, still competes in drag racing at Bandimere Speedway and he got me interested in the sport,” she said. “My first time at a race was really exciting. It was a rush to come off the line and get the car to go as fast as it can down the track.

You know what? It is still as exciting and just as much of a rush now as it was the first time I came off the starting line.”

Flores said she looks forward to drag racing season every year because driving is fun and also because she gets to meet new people and make new friends.

She said her dad and grand-

father maintain the car during racing season, and a friend, Dave Matthews, overhauls the engine and tunes it up during the off season.

“I do some little things with the car, like I know how to change the oil,” Flores said. “I would really like to learn more about tuning and maintaining engines because my real desire is to continue to drag-race and become a top fuel dragster driver.”

Junior dragster competition is about speed, but the real focus is consistency, because officials use a handicap system called dial-in.

Each car makes time-trial runs to establish a dial-in time. Then, when two cars pull up to the starting line, the car with the slowest dial-in gets to leave first. But, to keep everything fair, if a driver runs faster than dial-in, it is called a breakout and can cost the driver the race if his opponent runs under the dial-in time.

“I think one of the hardest things to learn is to get a good reaction time off the starting line,” Title continues on Page 24

Victoria Flores holds her trophy after winning her second championship in the Junior Drag Racing League’s Western Conference Finals. Courtesy photo

24-Color

24 The Independent

July 11, 2013

things to do around the area

July 12-14

IrIsh festIval. The Colorado Irish Festival returns for its 19th year July 12-14 at Clement Park in Littleton.

Tickets can be purchased online, at King Soopers stores or any Tickets West Outlet.

Tickets also will be available at the event. Admission is $15 per person, $10 for seniors over 65 and active military members with valid ID. Admission on Friday is free before 6 p.m., and $10 thereafter. For information, visit www. coloradoirishfestival.org.

July 13 hIstory of radio. Throughout human history there have been a number of inventions that have fundamentally changed how people communicate. One of the most influential was the advent of radio. Although the technology was discovered in the 19th century, radio really came into the popular culture in the first half of the 20th century. Even today, ra-

dio continues to reach nearly 250 million Americans on a weekly basis. Join Active Minds from 2-3 p.m. July 13, as we trace the history and impact of this important technology. Program is free and take splace at MorningStar of Littleton, 5344 S. Kipling Parkway, Littleton.

Area Parking Lot in Chatfield State Park, west of the state park office, park on the north side of the parking lot. Registration required: $5 per person, $8 for both programs, State Park Pass is required. To register, call 303-973-9530 or register online at www.denveraudubon.org.

July 13

July 15

JunIor naturalIst. Chatfield

Mental health summit. The South

State Park presents junior naturalist programs in July. From 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 13, Junior Naturalists will explore the world of birds. See a live raptor presentation by Wild Wings. Learn how to use binoculars, how to identify birds, and where the best spots are to see birds within Chatfield State Park.

Spend the morning hiking and searching for birds. Discover the behaviors, songs, and displays of different birds. Learn all about the high flying creatures that are in the park! Receive a Junior Naturalist Ornithology certificate at the end of the program. Meet at the Heronry Picnic

Metro Health Alliance and Arapahoe/ Douglas Mental Health Network are convening the communities of Arapahoe and Douglas counties for a Mental Health Summit from 8-10 a.m. Monday, July 15, at Swedish Medical Center in Englewood. A hot breakfast will be served. Seating is limited; contact Traci Jones at 303-793-9615 tjones@southmetrohealthalliance.org to reserve your place at this important convening. Visit www.southmetrohealthalliance.org.

July 16 Photo PresentatIon. Well-known

Colorado historian Tom Noel will give a photo presentation on strange things about our state at 7 p.m. July 16 at Bemis Public Library, 6014 S. Datura St., Littleton. Featured in the talk will be entertaining stories on bizarre people throughout the history of Colorado, weird vehicles, exotic animals and hungry cannibals. Copies of Noel’s recent books will be available for purchase and signing at the program. Call 303-7953961.

July 19-20 QuIlt entrIes. Firehouse Quilts is looking for quilt entries for its eighth annual quilt show to support its mission of helping children in crisis in Colorado.

Early bird entries submitted by May 17 are taken at a discounted entry fee ($15).

Otherwise, the fee is $18 per item, and the final deadline is June 21. This year’s show has a special theme, Patriotic, along with 13 other categories. The show is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 19-20 at

the Douglas County Events Center in Castle Rock. All forms and instructions are available at www.firehousequilts. org; click on the Quilt Show link at the top.

July 20 JunIor naturalIst. Chatfield State Park presents junior naturalist programs in July. From 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 20, Junior Naturalists discover the world of reptiles and amphibians. Learn where to find these slithering, slimy creatures and how to identify them.

Why do snakes shed their skin? Why do rattle snakes rattle their tails? How do tadpoles turn into frogs? Come discover the answers to your questions as we dig in the ponds for tadpoles and turtles and search the fields for snakes and lizards!

Receive a Junior Naturalist Herpetology certificate at the end of the program.

Meet at the Heronry Picnic Area Parking Lot in Chatfield State Park, west of the state park office, park on the north side of the parking lot. Registration required: $5 per person, $8 for both programs, State Park Pass is required. To register, call 303-973-9530 or register online at www.denveraudubon.org.

July 20 aCC enrollMent. Arapahoe Community College will offer an opportunity for anyone to begin the process of enrolling in fall 2013 classes with the Start Now! event from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, July 20, at all three ACC campuses (Littleton, Parker and Castle Rock).

Start Now! provides all prospective and currently applied, but not enrolled, students with the opportunity to complete student orientation and placement testing while receiving assistance with advising, financial aid and registration.

For information, or to apply for admission, contact the admission and records office at admissions@arapahoe.edu or 303-797-5621. Visit www.arapahoe.edu.

July 22 Blood drIve. Arapahoe County Administration community blood drive is from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday, July 22, inside grays peak room at 5334 S. Prince St., Littleton. For information or to schedule an appointment, contact Bonfils Appointment Center at 303-3632300 or visit www.bonfils.org.

July 23 Blood drIve. Columbine Library

title Continued from Page 23

Flores said. “You want to leave as quickly as possible but not too quickly or you will be disqualified. You want your reaction times to be consistent so you keep your runs consistent with your dial-in time.”

In the championship round, she ran 8.10 seconds, which was nearly perfect as her dial-in for the day was an 8.12.

Flores said she is sad this is her last year in junior dragster competition and wanted to thank everyone who believed in her and encouraged her all the years she was driving a junior dragster. But she still plans to drive in the high school division, where she has made 14-second runs down the quarter-mile track at 100 mph. She said that is fun because she likes to drive fast.

She said she still will be driving in the high school competition and still will be going to the track for junior dragster races because her two younger brothers are both drivers.

community blood drive is from 12:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, inside Bonfils’ mobile bus at 7706 W. Bowles Ave., Littleton. For information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Bonfils’ Appointment Center at 303-363-2300 or visit www.bonfils.org.

July 24-28 County faIr. The Arapahoe County Fair is July 24-28 featuring returning favorites such as the demolition derby, open and junior rodeos, a carnival and more. General admission is free for all ages on July 24-25 and $5 for ages 13 and older on July 26-28. Ages 12 and younger are free all week. Parking is $5 per day. Carnival and midway games are sold separately. The youth livestock auction is July 27. For information and a schedule of events at www.arapahoecountyfair.com.

July 28 Blood drIve. Southern Gables Church community blood drive is from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, July 28 inside Bonfils’ mobile bus at 4001 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Littleton. For information or to schedule an appointment, contact the Bonfils’ Appointment Center at 303-363-2300 or visit www.bonfils. org. aug. 5 exhIBItors needed. More than 35 booths are available for handmade crafts, food and seasonal items at the second annual arts and craft fair, which is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Stober Elementary, Lakewood.

Most booth spaces measure 8-by-8 feet. A limited number of retail vendor spaces are also available. Reserve your spot by Aug. 5. Request an application at annedrobny@gmail.com. Applicants will be notified by Aug. 26. aug. 16 WIne tastIng/auCtIon. Mayfair Liquors will host a special wine tasting to benefit Gateway Battered Women’s Services. The event is at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16, at the Wellshire Event Center, 3333 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver. The theme will be “Around the World in 80 Wines.” A survivor will share her story about being a battered woman and how she was helped by Gateway. The event also features a sit-down dinner followed by a live auction. Call 303-343-1856 for tickets and more information.

“Junior dragster racing has become sort of a family affair,” said Tamara Freeman, Flores’ mother. “My husband did some drag racing when he was younger, and until the kids came along. Victoria got driving a junior dragster and then our boys, Dawson, 13, and Kobe, 12, both started competing in junior dragsters.

As you might guess, with our kids so involved in junior dragsters, we spend a lot of time at the track.”

The family brought home a trunk full of hardware from the Western Conference Finals.

Victoria won the big trophy, called a Wally in honor of NHRA founder Wally Parks, for winning her age division. In their age groups, her brother Dawson brought home the trophy for making it to the semifinals and her brother Kobe got the trophy for making it to the quarterfinals.

Next season, the family will be racing at a new track because this summer, they will be moving to the Fort Worth area, But they expect to be back in the area next year when the junior dragster Western finals are held at Bandimere Speedway.