Westy Connection Fall 2023

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It’s Wednesday morning and class is about to begin. The excitement is palpable and everyone is happy to be here, surrounded by friends. The students aren’t talking about what to wear to homecoming or hatching a plan to miss curfew. Perhaps in the back of their minds, they’re thinking about what to make for dinner or are trying to remember if they closed the garage door. This is Beginning Tap class at The MAC and it’s not for kids — it's for adults!

The City of Westminster offers many adult learning programs that are designed to fulfill your curiosity. Maybe you always wanted to try ballet, maybe you've been wanting to reenact that unforgettable pottery scene from “Ghost,” or maybe you would love to play lead guitar in a rock band. Whatever your passion, it’s not too late, and Westminster is here to help get you started.

Jennifer Jensen, a recreation specialist with the City, loves creating different adult learning programs. “Life's

rough,” she said. “I think that giving yourself the opportunity to do something that you enjoy helps get through the negative. I think we need an outlet for our mental health. We’re giving you a safe opportunity to do something you enjoy.”

Lena Murphy-Colm, who teaches dance, agrees. Her Beginning Tap class attracts adults of all ages, including some in their 20s. She thinks classes of any kind — be it her dance class or one of Westminster’s many other offerings — are important for young adults. “People in that age group need a release and quite often they don't have a release from the daily grind. You know, day after day: wake up, eat, go to work, come home, cook, eat. I think that release is so important. It gives your brain a break from some of the monotony as well.”

On the surface, Nancy Mungia, a busy mom of two, doesn’t seem like someone who would take a beginning guitar class. But that’s part of why she signed up in the first place. “I have two young kids at home and kind of felt

JORDAN ALLEY AND CHELSEA FRITTS THROW CLAY AT THEIR FIRST WESTMINSTER POTTERY CLASS.

STUDENTS EAGERLY WATCH AS MARTHA COFRAN DEMONSTRATES HOW TO MAKE A PLATE USING HER POTTERY WHEEL.

like I was losing myself,” she said. Mungia’s husband took the class first and one day he asked for her help figuring out the tune. She has a background in music, so while he was showering, she picked up his guitar and was able to play the song he was trying to learn. “I just kind of enjoyed getting back into that musical side,” she said.

The thought of trying something new as an adult can be scary, especially if you’re doing it by yourself. Jan Weller has been taking tap class for years and has some familiar advice for people who might be scared to take a class: “Just do it. You just have to do it, and if you do it once you'll be great.”

Patti Barnes, one of Weller’s classmates, agrees with that mentality. She says she was nervous with the “first-dayof-school jitters” when she enrolled in Beginning Tap, “but, I just push myself to do it. I’ve never regretted trying something new.”

Jensen says the fear of signing up for a class alone shouldn’t stop you. “Even if you don't have friends that want to do it, you might meet some new

friends; you might meet a significant other.” Jensen says she’s heard of people who go into a class hoping to learn a new skill and come out with a life partner.

Before teaching pottery, one of the City’s most popular classes, Martha Cofran had an entirely different career in engineering. After her children grew up, she decided it was time to follow her pottery passion. She has advice for people who might be afraid to try something new. “Nobody is born knowing how to do anything. We all started out in the same place.” She likes to remind her students that “it’s recreation, not school. You’re going to learn but have fun too.”

Although it might sound like a cliché, Mungia says adult classes really are about having fun. “Everybody is learning and it’s ok if you mess up. Just have fun and find confidence in your desire to do it.”

This fall, the City is offering a variety of adult learning classes. Scan the QR code below to view a detailed list and to register for classes.

LENA MURPHY-COLM SHOWS HER TAP CLASS HOW TO BUST A MOVE.

GUITAR TEACHER HENRY SHERMAN FEELS THE RHYTHM WITH HIS CLASS.

WATER FACILITY PROGRESS ON THE NEW DRINKING

Beginning in fall 2023, work will begin on a new, modern water treatment facility in Westminster that will reliably provide 15 million gallons of water per day (MGD). The new facility will be built on property the City acquired on Westminster Boulevard just north of 98th Avenue, a site that had been previously destined for development. The new drinking water facility will allow Westminster to retire portions of the Semper Water Treatment Facility, the aging water treatment plant located off 90th Avenue and Pierce Street that was built over a half-century ago.

When the community raised concerns about affordability, the City carefully reevaluated the project to ensure it could continue to deliver clean and safe drinking water in a financially responsible manner. City staff identified nearly $100 million in cost savings after analyzing updated water consumption data and rightsized the facility to meet Westminster’s reduced water treatment needs. The City also significantly cut water rates for all residents, and capped future rate adjustments to 4.5% or less annually over the next ten years.

The 40-acre site will allow the City to add additional treatment technology and processes as future regulations and detection capabilities change. While the City has not seen detectable levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in its water supply, the new facility will be able to incorporate new treatment systems as the technology and regulations standards are developed.

Modern Technology to Protect Westminster’s Water

The new facility will provide enhanced treatment processes including modern filtration design and mechanical systems to actively remove particulates from the water. Ozonation is an additional process that may be included in the facility based on City Council’s approval. Ozonation provides a second layer of disinfection against bacteria and viruses, reduces heavy metals including iron, manganese, and lead, and addresses pollution related to wildfire and algae blooms.

The Project is Underway

Design of the new drinking water facility, including enhancement of the trails adjacent to Hyland Ponds Open Space, is already underway and scheduled for completion in late 2024. The facility is expected to begin treating water by spring of 2028. The City will launch an environmental assessment this fall with public comment taking place from September 12 through October 12. Additionally, a public open house event will be held on October 5. Scan the QR code for more details.

FALL EVENTS

We have tons of fall fun lined up for this season! From our new week-long cultural arts event in Historic Westminster to Westy Fest at City Park, or Boo at the View at West View Recreation Center, there is something for everyone to enjoy as the leaves change. For a full events calendar, scan the QR code above, or visit: www.westminsterco.gov/Events.

City Council Town Hall

Thursday, Sept. 21 | 6:30 p.m.

Crown Pointe Academy 2900 W. 86th Ave.

Oakhurst Park Community BBQ

Thursday, Oct. 12 | 3 p.m.

Oakhurst Park West 9311 Lark Bunting Dr.

Westminster Arts Week

Sept. 23-30

Find the full schedule and more information at www.westminsterco.gov/ SpecialEvents

Family Dance

Saturday, Sept. 16 | 6:30 p.m.

City Park Recreation Center 10455 Sheridan Blvd.

$10/resident $13/non-resident

Bishop Square Park

Community BBQ

Thursday, Sept. 28 | 5 p.m.

Bishop Square Park 8150 Hooker St.

Boo at the view

VeteransCeremonyDay

Friday, Nov. 10 | 10:30 a.m.

Armed Forces Tribute Garden 6001 W. 104th Ave.

Westy Fest

Saturday, Oct. 21 | 12 p.m.

City Park 10455 Sheridan Blvd.

Presented by Intermountain Health, supported by Premier Members Credit Union, Xfinity, NMAA, SCFD, Smile Heroes of Denver, and School of Rock Broomfield

Saturday, Oct. 28 | 3 p.m.

West View Recreation Center 10747 W. 108th Ave.

Sponsored by Westminster Federal Credit Union

Honor the Land & Streams

Saturday, Nov. 11 | 8-11 a.m.

Citywide event

Register by November 1

Avenue and Wadsworth Boulevard might think they’re looking at an abandoned farm on the side of the road, but residents of Westminster know this spot is home to something much more sinister.

Generations of Coloradans have made terrifying memories inside the wooden barn and set of structures on site where props from some of the most iconic Hollywood horror movies are on display. The Frightmare Compound has been a community tradition since 1983, and this Halloween, the renowned attraction is celebrating 40 years of fright.

Josh Holder, the current owner, has been running Frightmare for decades to carry out the legacy of his father, the mastermind behind the haunted attraction.

“Dad passed back in 1999, and the family kept it going,” Holder said. “It was too cool to let it die, and until this day, it’s still a family-run business.”

Holder’s father bought the property when it was just old swamp land, and slowly but surely turned it into the unsettling scene that makes up the haunted compound today.

“My dad was a straight entrepreneur and just fell in love with haunted houses,” Holder remembered. “He would set up mini haunted houses in his backyard for his parents and friends so my dad was in the haunted house game since he was 10 years old!”

In addition to a cast of characters lurking around the site to scare guests, each scene features eclectic items Holder’s family has collected over the years, including real vehicles, historic mining and farming equipment, and even a small airplane. Holder also gets some help from the experts in Tinseltown.

“We have guys in Hollywood that make custom props for us. These guys that are building for anything from "The Exorcist" to "Halloween," they got off a scene there and go make something for Frightmare,” Holder said.

It’s not just Hollywood that Holder draws inspiration from. He and his family travel the world looking for the newest and most terrifying ways to captivate guests, and it requires some homework too.

“We study a lot of the science of fear. We try to hit all five of your senses. We want to make sure that you’re stepping on something weird while smelling something that you see, while something is touching you.”

Each year, new scenes are added to the attraction, and for the 40th anniversary celebration this Halloween, Holder has found a frightening way to pay homage to Grace Church in Arvada, the group Holder’s father initially worked with to start the haunted house.

Four decades later, that small group of church members has grown into a cast and crew of more than 100 people. Holder begins hiring in August or September, holding what he refers to as “monster auditions.”

“It’s like America’s Got Talent, but zombiestyle!” he exclaimed.

When you think of Halloween in Westminster, Frightmare likely comes to mind. The small business draws in big crowds of people looking for a good scare each season.

“I want to thank Westminster because these are the people that have been there with us through thick and thin,” Holder said. “It’s a great community here and I love the fact that it’s a staple in Westminster. It’s just cool to see these grandparents who are now bringing their grandchildren here 40 years later.”

Speaking of children, Frightmare recommends their attraction for those 12 years or older, but there are always exceptions. “We have little kids younger than 12 that go through and have a great time, and we have grown men that

scream and don’t make it through!”

Frightmare opens for the season in late September and is open through early November. For pricing and ticketing information visit: www.thefrightmarecompound.com.

NEIGHBORLY ADVICE

We ’re here to help! For general inquiries and assistance, contact a Community Assistant.

is

live

The City of Westminster’s government access channel is back! Westy TV is transmitted over the Comcast cable system on Channel 8 in Westminster. Tune in for live City Council meetings and videos showcasing City events and programs. Westy TV is on the air 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For technical support, please contact Comcast.

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 303-658-2400

(then press “0” from the menu options)

Leaf and pumpkin recycling event

Saturday, Nov. 4 & Saturday, Nov. 11 10001 Alkire Street | 8 a.m. to noon.

Westminster residents can recycle bags of leaves and pumpkins for free. Please bring leaves in bags; plastic bags will be emptied and returned to the resident, and compostable bags or paper bags can be put in the bin as is. Staff will be onsite to facilitate the event. No other debris is accepted in the leaf recycling bins. Pumpkins must be free of paint and decorations, including candles. This event may be impacted by weather. Before you go, check for updated details at: www.westminsterco.gov/ TreeLimbRecycling

Best Places to See Fall Colors in Westminster

Skip the drive to the mountains and enjoy the changing fall foliage in our own backyard! Whether you want to take photos or just take in the beauty of the colors, Westminster's Forestry team compiled a list of the best leaf-peeping spots in the city.

Mushroom Pond (10978 Federal Blvd.)

Margaret’s Pond (104th Ave. & Legacy Ridge Pkwy.)

Semper Farm Open Space (92nd Ave. & Pierce St.)

check out westminSter's fall colors here!

We’re here to help with all your health needs and concerns.

A primary care provider (PCP) is the first person you go to for health questions and concerns. When you choose one of our PCPs, you form a relationship with someone who knows your history and is here for you, year after year. Your primary care provider is your partner in health through every stage of your life and we’re here to help you find someone just right for you.

“PCPs are generalists who see babies, kids and adult patients for common ailments including respiratory infections, headaches, back pain, rashes and urinary infections,” said Angela Bryant, PA-C, a PCP at SCL Health Medical Group - Westminster. “They also manage chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, anxiety and depression. A PCP can teach you ways to stay healthy, treat you when you are sick, and help you get more advanced care when you need it.”

You should establish care with a PCP who truly listens to your concerns, offers advice and allows you to make decisions regarding your health that you both think are best.

“Even if you have never had a primary care provider, developing a relationship with one now will allow you to reach out to someone who can give advice if you are not feeling well, as well as give you recommendations to keep you healthy for the future,” said Angela.

Scan the QR code to learn more about primary care services offered at SCL Health’s Medical Group clinics

Need a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant?

“A PCP can teach you ways to stay healthy, treat you when you are sick, and help you get more advanced care when you need it.”

n a sunny Saturday morning the practice area at Legacy Ridge Golf Course is buzzing with activity, and the crisp Westminster air echoes with the thwack of golf balls being struck.

A class of 10 participants varies greatly in both age and skill level from 20s to 70s and from beginner to avid golfer but they all are united by their experience serving our country.

PGA HOPE is an instructional golf program for veterans and active duty military designed to support social, emotional, and physical well-being. The no-cost program welcomes those of all ages, branches of service, and golf abilities to develop their game and enjoy time among new friends in their community.

Westminster’s inaugural PGA HOPE program was hosted by Legacy Ridge Golf Course this summer, where participants received six weeks of instruction from PGA HOPE Certified Instructor Visanu Tongwarin, also known as “Coach V”.

“Golf is a good game to bond, do something with your

buddies,” Coach V said. “This program helps our veterans develop their game and get more comfortable being out there on the course so they can enjoy playing the game of golf.”

Throughout the six-week program, participants worked on a variety of skills including putting, approach shots, course management, and golf etiquette. The program concluded with a ninehole round and graduation ceremony for the participants.

Jay Millar, who served in the U.S. Army as a specialist in West Germany, said he made new friends and gained confidence with each session he attended.

“I’ll never be a pro, but I golf for connection,” he said. “We gained some confidence out here, and that makes the game a lot more fun. With a lot of veterans programs, the purpose is connection. I even met a guy that lives on my street who I didn’t know before.”

Les Scott, a 20-year Navy veteran, came into the program as a beginner golfer wanting to learn enough to keep up with friends on the course.

“I thought it was an awesome program,” he said. “I’ve played with friends over the years, and sometimes they’re embarrassed to have me play with them. But coming out here one of my biggest goals was to improve enough to get comfortable. My eyes have been wide opened compared to how I played before. It will be nice to go out and actually keep score this time.”

With the success of Westminster’s first PGA HOPE class, Coach V and City staff are looking forward to expanding the program and offering more golf opportunities for veterans in our community.

“One veteran came up to me and said he thought people forgot about veterans until he saw what we were doing here at Legacy Ridge with PGA HOPE,” Coach V said. “With this program, I want people to know we did not forget about you guys, you are not alone out there, and we want to enjoy this game with you and your fellow servicemembers.”

To learn more about golf instruction, courses, and tee times in Westminster, visit www.westminsterco.gov/ GolfWestminster.

FUNGI

FORTUNE

Towering 50 feet over Federal Boulevard south of 112th Avenue stands a historic landmark that may spark curiosity among Westminster residents and prompt the question, “Why is there a big can of mushrooms in Westminster?”

The Savery Savory Mushroom Farm water tower is the last remaining structure from the enterprise of one of Westminster’s most storied entrepreneurs, Charles William Savery, who built and operated a successful mushroom farm in the city from 1923 to 1953.

“Water towers have not been landmarked in this state very often, so it’s special that this one was notable enough to be preserved,” said Linda Graybeal, president of the Westminster Historical Society. “The fact that Savery had the insight to paint it like a can of mushrooms for advertising purposes was huge.”

To understand the story of the water tower is to understand the story of Colorado’s “Mushroom Magnate,” Charles Savery.

Savery was born in 1878 in Chester County, Pennsylvania. While little is known about his childhood, he and his wife eventually moved out west after the failure of his lumberyard operation in Philadelphia.

purchased a farm north of Denver in unincorporated Adams County. While he could have retired with his profits from the mining industry, the retirement lifestyle didn’t suit Savery, so he embarked on a new enterprise.

By the 1920s, mushrooms had become a popular delicacy in America. Originally introduced to the United States from France in 1902, mushrooms quickly became a staple of fine dining. Savery was no stranger to savory fungi, as his boyhood home of Chester County produced about 80 percent of the nation’s mushrooms. Savery even had a cousin in the business, from whom he picked up a few tips.

In 1922, Savery and a business partner started growing mushrooms discreetly in a building underneath Denver’s 20th Street viaduct. It didn’t take long before Denver Police shut down the operation due to “unpleasant odors” from the copious amounts of manure used to fertilize the crop.

The ever-determined entrepreneur decided to expand his underground mushroom business by establishing a proper farm on his property near the town of Westminster. He was initially told by horticulture experts that he was doomed to fail because Colorado’s dry, sunny climate was inhospitable for mushrooms. After three years of hardship, Savery took his son Robert back east for eight weeks to figure out a way to prove the experts wrong.

Once settled in Denver, Savery successfully dabbled in mining investments and eventually

“He did not know what the word ‘no’ meant,” Graybeal remarked. “He said, ‘Fooey on you guys, I’m going

Charles Savery

COURTESY: WESTMINSTER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

to study and make this work.’”

Savery returned to Colorado with fresh ideas that would lead to his fungi fortune. He designed and built long grow houses, complete with a rudimentary air conditioning and humidifying system that used damp strips of canvas and electric fans to circulate cold, moist air throughout the darkened room.

As the mushroom crops grew, so did the farm. Savery eventually constructed 32 mushroomgrowing buildings known as “caves,” 15 residences for employees, 25 adobe structures for paid laborers, a schoolhouse, a general store, a four-acre baseball field, tennis courts, and a water tower to supply the entire operation.

“His vision was an entire community around this,” Graybeal said. “I know some descendants of the people that worked there, and they all speak favorably of it. Even though children most likely worked on the farm, he was big on education. He really looked after his people.”

By 1930, Savery had taken his 80-acre farm in present day Westminster and turned it into a company town that supplied the entire region with food products in high demand. As the only mushroom facility between Kansas City and the Pacific Coast, the Savery farm was wildly successful. Savery’s Great Western Mushroom Company eventually established facilities operated by Charles’ sons in Los Angeles and San Francisco, and by the mid-1930s, the iconic green and yellow cans of Savery Savory Mushrooms were being shipped all over the western United States.

“The water tower was really key. Not only was it necessary for the growing operation, but it supplied the whole community that had been built,” Graybeal said.

Although the mushroom company experienced decades of booming success, a series of fires in the 1940s unfortunately decimated the property. An aging Charles Savery eventually retired from the business in 1953 and moved to Longmont after the death of his wife.

The Savery Savory Mushroom Company stopped operations after Charles retired, and the buildings began to fall into disrepair. Over time, most of the structures were either torn down or collapsed. Today all that remains of the enterprise is the water tower, which marks an important site in Westminster’s history.

“Those that were stubborn and tenacious and had a dream that they were willing to sacrifice for the true definition of an entrepreneur they made our community what it is today,” Graybeal said.

The water tower was placed on the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties in 2005. A year later, the City of Westminster commissioned a historically accurate restoration of the tower including fresh paint showing the advertising for Savery Savory Mushrooms.

The water tower is owned and maintained by the City of Westminster, and the park on which it stands is open to the public.

To learn more about historic landmarks in Westminster, scan this QR code.