WINDSOR
Volume 22, Issue 1
January 2024 PRESIDENT’S PEN HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Bobbie Mays, Board President
Focusing on what 2024 will mean to me and our Windsor Gardens community, I hope this new year will bring fulfilling experiences for all.
Many of us are considering resolutions or long-term goals for the new year. My personal goals for the year include: Growth in listening to and understanding the needs of others and the purpose I play in the process. Getting back to my arts and crafts. Determining the areas that fulfill my desires for enjoyment with family and close friends. Of course, eating less and exercising more. And my HOA goals for the new year include: Working closer with WG committees to support their goals. Continuing to assist our community in realizing the value of our talented staff and volunteers. Finding effective ways to utilize the time and resources available to us. Communicating as often as possible how each of us can help with the continuously growing costs associated with our community. PRESIDENT'S PEN continued on page 4
In This Issue Community and Committee Meetings...............pg 3 In Remembrance....................................................pg 3 Letters......................................................................pg 3 Appeals Committee Decisions.............................pg 6 Board in Motion.....................................................pg 6 2024 Board of Directors.....................................pg 6 From the General Manager Budget and Annual Meeting...........................pg 7 HOA Assessment Categories Breakdown.....pg 7 Maintenance & Grounds Updates.................pg 8 What to Expect and Not Expect from Your Building Representative..................................pg 9 Contact Information for Association's Message System.............................................pg 9 New Year Security Resolutions........................ pg 11 Community Response Activities........................ pg 11 Cop Shop............................................................. pg 11 Dayton Street Wastewater Pipes Work........ pg 12 Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) Application Events at WG.......................... pg 12 New Staff Introductions.................................... pg 13
Everyday Heroes................................................ pg 14 Orientation Schedule for New Residents......pg 14 New Residents...................................................pg 14 Councilwoman Sawyer...................................... pg 15 Photo Album........................................................ pg 16 Restaurant............................................................ pg 20 Classes................................................................. pg 21 Activities, Events and Entertainment................ pg 22 Cards and Game Groups................................ pg 24 Clubs and Groups.............................................pg 25 Faith Communities.............................................. pg 27 Local Community Events.................................... pg 27 Announcements................................................... pg 28 Health Screenings & Services.......................... pg 29 Services and Products Presentations.............. pg 29 Support Groups.................................................. pg 29 Windsor Writers................................................ pg 30 Classifieds .......................................................... pg 32 Service Directory............................................... pg 33
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Visit our website at www.windsorgardensdenver.org 2024 Board Officers & Committees Executive Committee y Bobbie Mays, President y Dean Deverick, Vice President y Mike Lopez, Treasurer y Carol Brooks, Secretary Appeals Committee y Dean Deverick, Chair y Michael Powl, Board y Shirley Cox, Resident y Tammy Felker, Resident y Gary Roll, Resident Architectural Review Committee y Gay Ann Ost, Chair y Michael Powl, Board y Ron Baldwin, Resident y Jolene Cranston, Resident y Catherine Elliott, Resident y Nona Warburton, Resident y Beverly Williams, Resident Auditing Committee y Dennis Knight, Chair y Dean Deverick, Board y Debra Adams, Resident y Susan Adamson, Resident y Jeanne Lee, Resident y Lida Preston, Resident y Bev Thomas, Resident Board Election Committee y Carol Brooks, Chair y Mike Lopez, Board y Donna Sanford, Resident y Bev Thomas, Resident y Beverly Williams, Resident Building Representative Zone Committee (BRZC) Carol Brooks and Donna Sanford, CoChairs Zone 1: Shari Swickard Zone 2: Barbara Penn Zone 3: Mona Knight Zone 4: Kathy Young Zone 5: Lisa Davis Zone 6: Barbara Ellis Zone 7: Susan Bretschneider Community Life Committee y Gay Ann Ost, Chair y Dennis Knight, Board y Kristin Brotherton, Resident y Kathy Callender, Resident y Jolene Cranston, Resident y Mark Euler, Resident y Eydie McDaniel, Resident y Charles McDonald, Resident y Judy Tauchen, Resident Employee Relations/Safety Committee y Dean Deverick, Chair y Gay Ann Ost, Board y Ginny Cox, Resident y Lisa Davis, Resident y Sylvia Francis, Resident y Marilyn Tyler, Resident y Laura Wells, Resident y Maintenance Dept. Employee y Grounds Dept. Employee y Community Response Officer Finance Committee y Mike Lopez, Chair y Michael Powl, Board
Finance Committee continued y Phyllis Davis, Resident y Mark Euler, Resident y Patsy Krechel, Resident y Lida Preston, Resident y Terry Sprague, Resident Governing Documents Review Ad Hoc Committee y Dennis Knight, Chair y Mike Lopez, Board y Shirley Cox, Resident y Jan Sheppard, Resident y Charles Silverman, Resident Insurance Committee y Mike Lopez, Chair y Carol Brooks, Board y Susan Bretschneider, Resident y Jolene Cranston, Resident y Barbara Ellis, Resident y Joseph Hayashi, Resident y Martin Langley, Resident Long-Range Planning & Innovation Committee y Dean Deverick, Chair y Michael Powl, Board y Kathy Callender, Resident y Mark Euler, Resident y Donna Pitcher Fisher, Resident y Brenda Sanders, Resident y Alyson Shupe, Resident y Marcy Smith, Resident y John Young, Non-Resident Owner y Bill Walsh, Employee Policy Committee y Michael Powl, Chair y Dennis Knight, Board y Debe Alikchihoo, Resident y Shirley Cox, Resident y Janis Mayer, Resident y Jan Sheppard, Resident y Charles Silverman, Resident Public Relations Committee y Dennis Knight, Chair y Gay Ann Ost, Board y Susan Bretschneider, Resident y Lydia "Penelope" Hodge, Resident y Jeanne Lee, Resident y Edna "Nan" Wigington, Resident y Kathy Young, Resident Revenue Exploration Ad Hoc Committee y Mike Lopez, Chair y Dean Deverick, Board y Donna Pitcher Fisher, Resident y Howard Fistell, Resident y Alyson Shupe, Resident y Monika Strauss, Resident y Elaine Wilson, Resident Underground Garage Subcommittee y Gay Ann Ost, Chair y Carol Brooks, Board y Barbara Dey, Resident y Camella "Candy" Ford, Resident y Virginia "Gini" Hansen, Resident y Reuel Hunt, Resident y William Laub, Resident y Roni Reynolds, Resident y Jan Sheppard, Resident
Association Contacts –– ADMINISTRATION –– 303-364-7485 Regular Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. General Manager: Rebecca Zazueta, email: rzazueta@wgamail.com Business Manager: Tammy Tafoya-Paredes, email: ttafoya@wgamail.com Community Administrator: Patricia Frawley, email: pfrawley@wgamail.com Policy & Modifications: Katie Monasmith, email: kmonasmith@wgamail.com Office Manager: Liz Nickel, email: lnickel@wgamail.com Administrative Assistant: Estephany Vela, email: evela@wgamail.com Receptionists: Carol Redd, email: credd@wgamail.com Jodi Meisinger, email: jmeisinger@wgamail.com Accounting Manager: Debra Ford, email: dford@wgamail.com Accountant: Sarah Kluhsman, email skluhsman@wgamail.com
–– COMMUNITY RESPONSE –– 303-364-4924 communityresponse@wgamail.com Chief of Community Response: Chris Scovil, email: cscovil@wgamail.com Dispatcher: Nayeli Aguirre, email: naguirre@wgamail.com
–– FACILITIES MAINTENANCE –– Manager: Bill Walsh, email: bwalsh@wgamail.com
–– GROUNDS MAINTENANCE –– Supervisor: Dana Cusack, email: dana@wgamail.com
–– COMMUNITY LIFE –– Community Life Manager: Cari Ervin, email: cervin@wgamail.com ACTIVITIES 720-862-1533, 720-862-1534 and 720-862-1512 Activities Director: Steve Follweiler, email: sfollweiler@wgamail.com Asst. Activities Director: Tessa Post, tpost@wgamail.com Activities Admin. Assistant: Karen Arellano, email: karellano@wgamail.com GOLF SHOP & COURSE 303-366-3133 Golf Manager: Joey Schlueter, email: jschlueter@wgamail.com
–– BOARD OF DIRECTORS –– board@wgamail.com President: Vice Pres.: Treasurer: Secretary:
Bobbie Mays Dean Deverick Mike Lopez Carol Brooks
Asst. Treasurer: Gay Ann Ost Asst. Secretary: Michael Powl Director-at-Large: Dennis Knight
WINDSOR LIFE: THE NEWS OF WINDSOR GARDENS ADVERTISING: Call 303-364-7485 or email karellano@wgamail.com. Ad reservations and files are due the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication. SUBMISSIONS: Email WindsorLife@wgamail.com. Submissions are due the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication and will be reviewed by the WG Public Relations Committee or administrators for possible publication. DELIVERY: Windsor Life is delivered within the first week of the month. Windsor Life is published by the Windsor Gardens Association Board of Directors for the benefit of Windsor Gardens residents and is dedicated to: fostering communication and collaboration among the residents, board of directors and staff; promoting Windsor Gardens numerous and diverse activities; and informing residents of community resources and issues. The Windsor Gardens Association, its board of directors and employees and the Windsor Life staff are not responsible or liable for any of the services or products advertised in the Windsor Life publication, nor do we endorse any advertisement, product or service. The association recommends that you research any product or service and check references prior to hiring any individual or company.
Windsor Gardens Association 595 South Clinton Street Denver, CO 80247 303-364-7485 www.windsorgardensdenver.org
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Like or follow us at www.facebook.com/WindsorGardensAssociation Community & Committee Meetings
In Remembrance
NOTE: Not all of the committees meet every month.
To share the passing of someone with the community, please submit the deceased’s name, date of death, building number and any life memories you’d like to share to WindsorLife@wgamail. com or to the association office. Remembrances are subject to editing, including for length and grammar.
Attend in Person: Most meetings will be in the Colorado Room with exceptions noted below. Join by Phone via Zoom: Phone option available for many committee meetings. Call 720-928-9299 at the time of the meeting and use the meeting ID and passcode provided with the individual meetings in the below schedule. Join Online via Zoom: Online option available for many committee meetings. Go to www.zoom.com. Click “Join a meeting” and enter the meeting ID and passcode provided with the individual meetings in the below schedule. COMMUNITY MEETINGS Building Rep Training Wed., January 10, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. In person in the Colorado Room. Building Rep Committee Wed., January 17, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. In person in CenterPoint and via Zoom. See Zoom details below. Committee Training Thurs., January 18, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. In person in the auditorium. COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Architectural Review Committee Wed., January 10, 10 a.m. Meeting ID: 872 2928 8480 Passcode: 394873 Auditing Committee Thursday, January 11, 9 a.m. In person in the boardroom in the administrative office. Board Monthly Meeting Wed., January 24, 9:30 a.m. Meeting ID: 826 0009 1746 Passcode: 727562 Building Rep Committee Wednesday, January 17, 3 p.m. Meeting ID: 817 3423 7733 Passcode: 357012 Building Rep Zone Committee Thursday, January 11, 11 a.m. Meeting ID: 867 9926 9089 Passcode: 207595 Community Life Committee Wednesday, January 10, 1 p.m. Meeting ID: 819 1366 3341 Passcode: 267126 Finance Committee Tuesday, January 16, 3 p.m. Meeting ID: 893 4915 8959 Passcode: 181343 Finance Committee Budget Mtg Tuesday, January 30, 3 p.m. Meeting ID: 812 2440 1991 Passcode: 831214 COMMITTEE MEETINGS continued on page 4
Association Offices Closed New Year's Day
Monday, January 1, 2024
President's Day
Monday, February 19, 2024
Memorial Day
Monday, May 27, 2024
Independence Day
Thursday, July 4, 2024
Labor Day
Monday, September 2, 2024
Thanksgiving
Thursday, November 28, 2024 Friday, November 29, 2024
Christmas
Tuesday, December 24, 2024 Wednesday, December 25, 2024
New Year's Day
Wednesday, January 1, 2025
John Stewart Baldwin John Stewart Baldwin passed away peacefully on October 26, 2023, after an 18-month battle with cancer. Survived by Judy Tiffany, his wife of 36 years, son Sean and daughter Bonny, John was an avid photographer drawn to Windsor Gardens for the abundance of colorful flowers. As expected, after moving to Building 60 in 2019, John’s portfolio grew to thousands of beautiful shots, filling many a hard drive. Over his lifetime, John’s interests were many. In addition to his love for music and a good martini, he had a passion for vintage audio IN REMEMBRANCE continued on page 4
Your Turn: Write a Letter Write a letter to the board, administrators or the community. Letters submitted to the Windsor Life are published at the discretion of the Windsor Gardens Board of Directors, administrators and editor. Submission Specifications All letters must include the writer’s name, address and phone number for verification purposes. The writer’s name will be included with those letters that are published. Anonymous letters will not be considered. Letters are published based on space availability. Letters are limited to 300 words and may be edited for grammar, clarity, civility and space. Please provide sources for any articles or data referenced in your letter. Letters containing obvious factual inaccuracies, unattributed facts and quotes, or libelous statements will not be printed. Reviews, positive or negative, of businesses that are lessees of Windsor Gardens will not be published. In order to include diverse opinions, letters from the same writer will not be published more than three times per year and not in consecutive issues. Continued responses to other letters will be limited to open the forum for new writers and topics. E-mail to: WindsorLife@wgamail.com Mail to: Windsor Life, 595 S. Clinton St., Denver, CO 80247
How Bad is Secondhand Smoke? Secondhand smoke is a combination of the smoke that is breathed out by the smoker and the smoke that comes from the burning end of a tobacco or marijuana cigarette, cigar, pipe, etc. Within five minutes of being exposed to involuntary smoking or secondhand smoke, the primary artery (aorta) for blood flow from the heart to the body stiffens as much as it does for a smoker who smokes one cigarette. Research has shown that after smoking bans were put into place in restaurants and bars, the number of heart attacks declined in smokers, and the risk of a heart attack decreased for non-smokers. LETTERS continued on page 5
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PRESIDENT'S PEN continued from page 1 Promoting research into grants and other funding to assist with the improvements needed in our community.
currently on a waitlist. If positions on the committees open, the waitlist will be consulted.
Like many of you, I strive to balance my personal goals with what I can do to benefit our Windsor Gardens community. Many of you serve on committees or as building and zone reps. Many of you volunteer for various other activities at WG. Your WG neighbors and friends truly appreciate you juggling personal and community endeavors.
Our 2024 board of directors, Vice President Dean Deverick, Treasurer Mike Lopez, Secretary Carol Brooks, Dennis Knight, Gay Ann Ost, Michael Powl and myself look forward to working with the committees and continuing to make Windsor Gardens the most desirable community in the area. Board members Michele Compton and Roni Reynolds have retired from the board, and we thank them for their service. We appreciate their hard work and contributions to our community.
The response to our annual request for committee volunteers was encouraging, as we received 65 committee interest forms this year. After reading the descriptions of applicants’ activities and backgrounds, I realized that WG has untapped resources within our reach. The top three requested committees were the long-range planning and innovation, community life and policy committees. Eight applicants interested in these popular committees are
I also want to thank General Manager Rebecca Zazueta and her staff for their commitment to our WG community as we enter the new year. My charge to you in the new year is to assess and prioritize what is most important to you, including how you may support the future of our community, our home.
COMMITTEE MEETINGS continued from page 3 Finance Committee Budget Mtg Thursday, February 1, 3 p.m. Meeting ID: 813 5767 9750 Passcode: 667657
Revenue Exploration Ad Hoc Committee Thurs., Jan. 11, 3 p.m. Meeting ID: 835 5369 2659 Passcode: 321340
Long-Range Planning & Innovation Tues., January 9, 2 p.m. Meeting ID: 819 7645 0131 Passcode: 001875
Underground Garage Sub-Committee Wed., Jan. 17, 2 p.m. Meeting ID: 813 7996 0898 Passcode: 508987
Public Relations Committee Thursday, January 4, 9:30 a.m. Meeting ID: 811 3783 2820 Passcode: 781297
IN REMEMBRANCE continued from page 3 equipment, vintage bicycles and vintage and antique photography equipment. His many collections filled rooms — literally. After John’s doctors determined his cancer to be terminal, Judy and Sean gifted him with a shelter/support dog, Maxx, on his 87th birthday. Many of you may remember seeing John and Maxx on their daily walks. They quickly became inseparable, and Maxx earned the title of “Best Friend and Loyal Caregiver” until the very end. The Baldwin family said they will never fill the void left by John’s passing, but their hearts and memories are strong, and John’s spirit will never leave them.
Beverly Ann (Betz) Steigerwald Clausen Beverly Ann (Betz) Steigerwald Clausen of Building 58, age 89, died at home on December 7, 2023, following a brief illness. Bev was born in 1934 in Akron, Ohio, the oldest child of Benjamin Wilfred Betz and Marion Eleanor (Ion) Betz. Her siblings were Margaret, Donalee, Robert, and Richard. Bev graduated from the Villa Angela Academy in Cleveland in 1952 and attended the Cleveland Institute of Art for two years. Bev married James Carl Steigerwald in 1958. They had seven children: Mary Jo, Michael, Jim, Denise, Michelle, Suzanne, and
Beth. With Jim’s 1966 drafting into the U.S. Army, the family moved to Europe, and a great love of travel, French cuisine, and cultural exploration was born. After moving to Denver, Colorado, Bev took a sculpture class at the Jewish Community Center in 1971 and launched into decades of creative work. Following Jim’s death, Bev married Kenneth Eugene Clausen in 1997. They shared a love of road trips, trans-Atlantic cruises on the Queen Mary, afternoon matinees, deep conversation and flying in their small plane, often loaded with sculptures, en route to an art exhibit. Bev loved navigating with paper maps, art, travel, book clubs, changing seasons, puzzles, games, baking cookies with grandchildren, and large family gatherings. She is remembered for her radiant smile, joie de vivre and unending optimism. Bev is survived by her husband Ken, seven children and a stepson and their spouses, eight grandchildren and spouses, two step-granddaughters, two great-grandchildren, her sister Sister Donalee Theresa Betz SND and her brother Richard. She leaves behind a legacy of love and a large inventory of beautiful sculptures and paintings.
Eagle AV, LLC **AUTHORIZED BY WINDSOR GARDENS ASSOCIATION**
DISH NETWORK INTERNET HOME PHONE email: matt@gr8tv4all.com Sales & Service: 303-337-3474
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LETTERS continued from page 3 Question: Which of the following are in secondhand smoke: ammonia, arsenic, cyanide, or formaldehyde? Answer: All of the above. Question: Can ventilation and separate non-smoking sections eliminate secondhand exposure? Answer: These options do not protect people from the toxic chemicals in secondhand smoke. According to the 2006 U.S. Surgeon General’s Report, eliminating smoking in indoor spaces is the ONLY way to protect people from secondhand smoke completely. According to the American Cancer Society, the more secondhand smoke you breathe, the higher the levels of harmful chemicals in your body, and smoke from the lighted end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar has higher concentrations of nicotine and cancer-causing agents (carcinogens) than the smoke inhaled by the smoker. While I can walk across the street to avoid breathing in secondhand smoke, I cannot avoid smoke entering my unit, where I am exposed every time my neighbor lights up. Alan Schneider Sources: smokefree.gov/quit-smoking/why-you-should-quit/ secondhand-smoke-quiz and www.cancer.org/cancer/riskprevention/tobacco/health-risks-of-tobacco/secondhand-smoke. html.
Laundry Room Issues My husband and I have lived here for almost two years. I have had to get used to not having my own washer and dryer and having only two hours a week to wash my clothes. Plus, I am told what I can and cannot put in the washer and dryer. I have tried to abide by the rules, but when other residents took my clothes out of the washer and dryer when it was still my time, I got angry. And almost every week one or all the machines are broken. I have talked to our building rep about this. I keep asking why we can’t get new or additional machines in the laundry room. In a casual conversation with another resident about my dogs, I mentioned using washable pee pads. She pointed her finger at me and said in a demanding voice that if she found out I was putting pee pads in the laundry machines, she would "tell on me.” She then told the building rep to come and talk to me. I am 67 years old; I do not need to be treated like a kid doing something wrong. I won’t be using the laundry room anymore because of these issues. Instead, my caregiver is taking my laundry to a laundry mat. It costs me about $12 per week, but it is worth it because the machines always work, and she can get all the clothes done in about two and a half hours. I love living here, but I hate the laundry room rules and how people make me feel like a child when citing the rules! Let’s get machines in the laundry room that work all the time and relax some rules to give people some breathing room. Margaret Luers
Response to "Laundry Room Issues" Machine breakdown is a common frustration in the community. User errors cause most mechanical problems, including overfilling the soap container and machine debris like tissues, toothpicks or human or pet waste. Residents can help reduce the number of repairs by cleaning out the pockets of garments before placing them in the washer. We encourage residents to follow the process posted in the laundry rooms for contacting CSC when there is a machine issue. The first step is placing a work order with CSC, either online, by phone or using the CSC app. If the problem is not resolved after one business day, the second step is to place a second work order. The third step is contacting a receptionist or the office manager, Liz Nickel, in the administration office for research and resolution of the issue with CSC staff. If needed, the administrative staff can also assist with coordinating a building meeting with CSC and the building residents. This is especially helpful for recurring issues. The building rep or another representative may oversee the CSC work orders in some buildings. Check your building guidelines for more information. Recently, increased complaints prompted the need to offer clear guidance for laundry room use. The laundry facility policy was reviewed and rewritten with the policy committee, shared with the WG Building Representative Zone Committee, and published in Windsor Life for owner comment before going to the board for final approval. The Laundry Facilities Policy was adopted by the Board at their December 2023 board meeting. A full copy is available for review on the association’s website. The revised policy provides best practices for laundry facility use, which are then implemented through building guidelines. Katie Monasmith, Policy and Modifications Administrator
Misdelivered or Missing Packages I read the December Windsor Life letter about the person who took a misdelivered package as a freebee for themselves. I would have thought the residents of Windsor Gardens would help each other out and try to get packages to the right address and person. What if that package had contained someone’s life-sustaining medication? I, too, had a bad experience with a delivery. My daughter’s birthday present was delivered on November 25th to the “mail room, “photo included, but upon close examination, I could see it was not my “mail room.” I could tell two things from the photo. It was delivered to a two-story building because of the background behind the mailboxes, and the building was one with an entrance in the center of the building, not at the ends. After going to all the two-story buildings in Windsor Gardens with a center entrance and looking inside the glass doors, I did not see a package that looked like the one in the photo. Therefore, I can only surmise someone decided it was a “freebee” and kept it. I had to get a replacement present for my daughter. If I see a package that’s been delivered to the wrong area in my building, I always take the packages to the mailbox area of our building so my fellow residents can find them. I have also taken misdelivered packages to the correct address. My hope would be we are a community that looks out for each other and does not have to worry about the selfish and criminal actions of others. Daniel Gamel
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WG Appeals Committee Decisions
2024 Board of Directors
At their December 6, 2023, meeting, the appeals committee approved the following: Motion to recommend that building 6 review the holiday decorating policy and follow the timeline for when holiday decorations can be put out and when they can be illuminated. Motion to allow the outdoor common area seating policy to stand and require the bench seating and planters to be removed from building 6. Motion to ask the board of directors to rediscuss the outdoor common area seating policy. Motion to approve a sign and flag policy exception to allow building 6 to keep the solar lights clipped on the flagpole as they have no impact on the grounds or building structure. If the lights go into disrepair or become a safety concern, the lights will need to be removed, and the flags will need to be brought in at night. No other lights except those on the flagpole itself will be allowed, and if complaints are received from units impacted by the lighting, the association will require removal.
WG Board in Motion At their December 15, 2023, meeting, the board of directors approved the following:
Front row, left to right: Assistant Treasurer Gay Ann Ost, President Bobbie Mays and Secretary Carol Brooks.
Audit review meeting motion to approve the draft audit for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2023, as presented by Jim Moore, CPA.
Back row, left to right: Vice President Dean Deverick, Treasurer Mike Lopez, Director-at-Large Dennis Knight and Assistant Secretary Michael Powl.
Finance committee motions:
The board and committee meeting schedule is posted each month on page 3 of the Windsor Life.
− Motion to transfer $360,970.83 to the capital reserve account. − Motion to transfer $201,902.75 to the tax reserve account. − Motion to transfer $196,957.00 to the capital reserve account. (This transfer represents the December insurance loan payment from the operating account.) Long-range planning and innovation committee motion to proceed with contract negotiations with Verizon for the cellular network project. Motion to adopt the laundry facilities policy as published in the December 2023 Windsor Life without further amendments. Motion to approve the creation of an ad hoc committee to discuss plans for the front entrance tower. Motion to move the building interior stairwell handrail discussion to the long-range planning and innovation committee for further research and consideration. Motion to approve the Western Specialty contractor change order for additional tendon repair in an amount not to exceed $750K. Motion to not revisit the outdoor common area seating policy nor to send it to the policy committee for further review. Motion to approve the building representatives and alternate slates for 2024. Motion to approve the committee meeting schedule for 2024.
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From the General Manager Rebecca Zazueta
2024/2025 ASSOCIATION BUDGET & ANNUAL MEETING INFORMATION January is the start of our budget preparation for the new fiscal year, which starts on April 1, 2024. In accordance with Colorado statute, the budget will be presented to the membership at the annual meeting scheduled for the end of February. The annual meeting will be available through Zoom and Facebook Live for owners who cannot attend in person. Following the annual meeting, owners will be given an opportunity to veto the budget through a ballot vote conducted electronically by a third-party company. We plan to complete the budgeting process in early February. After the budget has been approved by the finance committee and board of directors, a mailing will be prepared and sent to all owners with the official notice of the meeting, a copy of the approved budget and instructions for electronic voting. The annual meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the auditorium to present the budget materials mailed to each owner and answer questions submitted by owners. The presence of 10% of the association members eligible to vote at any meeting, in person or by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for any action except as otherwise provided in the association’s articles of incorporation, declaration, and bylaws. However, according to Colorado law, the budget will be deemed approved unless a majority of owners, equivalent to 1,372 units, vetoes the budget. It is important to note that the approval process does not involve non-owner residents. Due to the size of the annual meeting, it will not be interactive or allow owners to provide comments or ask questions. Instead, we will include a cut-out in the February Windsor Life for owners to submit their questions in advance of the meeting. Owners are encouraged to observe the finance committee meeting(s) in late January and early February if they would like
budget information before the annual meeting mailing. Meeting minutes will also be posted on the association’s website for review following the meetings.
ELECTRONIC VOTING Ballot votes are expensive for the association to pursue. This vote will be conducted electronically by a third-party company to help mitigate expenses. Each owner has a unique voter identifier required for voting that will be provided in the official mailing in February. There will also be phone or paper ballot voting options for owners who are uncomfortable voting electronically. For those who need assistance with electronic ballots, volunteers will be available to help with in-person electronic voting during the week of voting. Here are examples of what the wording will look like on the ballot:
Please check one (1) box below to cast your vote. Read the options carefully: Ratify the 2024/2025 Budget (You are in favor of the Approved Budget.) Veto the 2024/2025 Budget (You are not in favor of the Approved Budget.) I abstain from voting. Please check one (1) box below to cast your vote. Read the options carefully: Approve the 2023 Annual Meeting Minutes Disapprove the 2023 Annual Meeting Minutes I abstain from voting.
HOA ASSESSMENT BREAKDOWN When you receive the monthly breakdown of your HOA assessment in March, you will see the following line items: Operations, Gas/ Electric, Water and Sewer, Property Taxes, Community Center, Property and Equipment, Capital Reserves and Insurance. Below is an explanation regarding each component included in the association assessment.
OPERATIONS The operations portion of your monthly HOA assessment accounts for the community’s day-to-day operations. It covers the costs of administration, day-to-day maintenance, payroll, grounds maintenance, janitorial services and community response. For an A unit (1200 square feet), this portion of the budget makes up approximately 35% of your total monthly HOA fee, which is equal to $248.60* per month or $8.29 per day. For that $8.29 per day you are receiving the services of a grounds crew, trash pickup, EMT services, computer services for Pilera notifications and the work order system, phone service to the administrative and community response staff, a website, a monthly newspaper, legal services, financial advising and management of your capital reserve investments, administrative staff, vehicle maintenance staff, plumbers, a licensed electrician, painters, annual window washing and daily repairs to roofs, walls, garages, elevators and intercom systems. Also included in that $8.29 per day, you can add snow removal, tree trimming and care, and the janitorial staff that cleans all the common areas.
*Surplus income from the fiscal year ending 2022, miscellaneous income for 2023-2024, as well as unallocated funds were carried forward on the approved 2023-2024 budget to reduce the overall increase in the HOA coupon. This resulted in a $17.37 credit per unit per month in operational expenses. This means that in the example above, the $248.60 fee for operations per month was reduced to $231.26 after the credit was applied. The credit is a one-time credit that is not expected to be carried over to next year.
GAS/ELECTRIC The gas/electric portion of the budget includes the gas used to heat the individual units and water as well as all common area electricity. This portion of the fee makes up approximately 8% of the total monthly assessment. Natural gas pricing and supply challenges have been an ongoing discussion for the association for the past couple years, and expenses are monitored closely. And while the rates for these costs have increased significantly in recent years, the association continues to work on ways to reduce energy costs. Some of these cost-reduction measures include the installation of more efficient boilers, new energy-efficient roofing, and LED hallway lighting. Additionally, the association purchases gas on the open market rather than directly from Xcel Energy. Over time this has saved the association a significant amount. HOA ASSESSMENT BREAKDOWN continued on page 8
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From the General Manager continued HOA ASSESSMENT BREAKDOWN continued from page 7 WATER & SEWER The water and sewer portion of the budget includes the water used in each of the units and the water used to irrigate the property. Additionally, a large portion of this budget is allocated to sewer and stormwater services. This portion of the fee makes up approximately 5% of the total monthly assessment.
PROPERTY TAX The property tax portion of the HOA assessment directly reflects the amount the City and County of Denver charges each of the units in Windsor Gardens. In January, each owner should receive a property tax statement for their unit. The association will pay the amount on that statement on behalf of owners in February and June of 2024. You will see that amount reflected on your 2024/2025 HOA monthly assessment total. This amount is divided by 12 and charged to the unit owner on a monthly basis starting with the April 2024 HOA assessment.
COMMUNITY CENTER The next component of your monthly assessment is for the community center. The community center portion of the coupon is the amount charged to owners to cover the golf course, community center and restaurant expenses. This portion of the fee represents approximately 4% of your total assessment. It is offset by the income generated in each of these departments by the golf course, community center and restaurant. The community center component has not increased in many years. Windsor Gardens is an amenities-based community, and as such, whether you use the amenities or not, their maintenance must continue to be a part of the overall budget for the community.
PROPERTY & EQUIPMENT Next, we have property and equipment. This line item covers the cost of association assets. Examples would be tractors,
lawnmowers, snowplows, vehicles, fitness center equipment, pool furniture, office furniture, etc. All equipment is well-maintained and used well past its expected useful life. This portion represents approximately 2% of the total assessment fee.
CAPITAL RESERVE The capital reserve portion of the monthly assessment makes up approximately 18% of the total fee. This part of the assessment covers major repairs and replacements of existing components and infrastructure within the association. The association currently has $13 million in capital reserves and anticipates significant expenses over the next several years. The association must continue to build this reserve to meet the needs of our 60-year-old community. The board has a duty to protect the property and to preserve and enhance all the components and infrastructure owned and maintained by the association. The board bases the annual reserve contribution on the information included in the professional reserve study that an outside firm prepares. This firm has engineering expertise and professionals who have examined this property and its many components and determined what is needed to maintain it over the next 20+ years. A reserve study update completed in 2022 is helping us plan for future reserve expenses and determine appropriate assessment allocations.
INSURANCE The final line item on your HOA assessment is insurance. The insurance for the association includes commercial property insurance, commercial general liability insurance, umbrella coverage, equipment breakdown, fidelity insurance, auto and equipment insurance and community association management professional liability coverage. Insurance represents approximately 13% of the total monthly assessment.
MAINTENANCE & GROUNDS UPDATES CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS Technology Project: The long-range planning and innovation committee has recommended that the private cellular network project move into contract negotiations and funding discussions with the finance committee. Roof Replacement Project: Roof and gutters have been completed at buildings 6, 53, 3, 8, 17 and 21. The roof replacements are complete at buildings 18, 34 and 42. Gutters are pending. New gutters and downspouts were installed for the townhomes. This project is 75% complete.. Boiler Replacement Project: Buildings 64, 61, 58, 12, 46 and 10 have been completed. Insulation has been installed on boilers that were installed in 2022 and in buildings 53 and 63. A new hot water system was installed for townhome row 76. The new system involves a flat plate heat exchanger and a storage tank. This is the first one with this design with the new boiler systems. This may be a good design moving forward, as we see issues with the Turbomax indirect systems. Underground Garages Project: The contractor was able to tension two lines in front of building 80, and they are trenching to other broken and corroded lines in the same area.
A new handrail was installed on the northwest side entry to building 82. A new electric line was installed at building 84. The conduit and meter can be removed soon. A drain pan was installed on the north side of upper 26. This will help keep water out of the garage ducts. A new gas line was installed to feed from the meter at building 68 to the heating unit in underground 25. The old line was compromised. Concrete Repairs: The sidewalk shavers came through and removed trip hazards on the sidewalks. Gutter Replacement: One gutter was replaced in parking lot 15. Another 300 feet of gutter was replaced in parking lot 14. Major Plumbing Repairs: In November, there was a domestic mainline leak under the canopy of building 37. A decision was made to replace the old fire line as the trench was already partially open. The fire line and the dry leg to the stand pipe were replaced from the front of the canopy to the stand pipe room. The domestic water line was in good condition, so we did not replace that copper line. MAINTENANCE & GROUNDS UPDATES continued on page 9
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What to Expect ... and Not Expect ... from Your Building Representative From the beginning, building representatives have been integral to life at Windsor Gardens. They were then, as they are now, a crucial link in communication between the board of directors, the association’s management and the many buildings that comprise our large community. They are essential to the quality of life we enjoy here. They are elected by the residents of the building where they live, but their job is not widely understood or appreciated. This article is written from the residents' perspective about the role of their building reps: what they should expect from them and what they should not expect. This article also applies to the alternate building reps who assist and often are called to fill in for the building reps. Building reps are not building superintendents (or police or judges), but they are important to the daily functioning of our unique community. The building rep helps the association communicate with residents by maintaining the building’s bulletin board. The building rep turns in work orders and follows up with staff regarding maintenance issues in the building’s common areas, specifically halls, laundry rooms, lobbies, stairways, parking lots, sidewalks, grounds and building exteriors. Residents place work orders only for issues within their own apartments. The building reps welcome and give building orientations to their new residents to provide them with information specific to living in the building, such as laundry room procedures, trash days, mail delivery and other items. The building rep prepares and distributes rosters of the building’s residents, sees that lobby furniture and décor are in good repair, and schedules at least one building
meeting per year to conduct business pursuant to the building’s guidelines. Building reps attend regular Building Representative Committee (BRC) meetings where they have an opportunity to learn about issues and often enjoy question-and-answer sessions with staff and board members. Some building reps also serve as zone representatives representing the ten or so buildings that make up their zone. Building reps communicate unresolved concerns to their zone reps, who convey them to the association by way of monthly Building Rep Zone Committee (BRZC) meetings, which building reps and residents are also invited to attend. What should you NOT expect of your building representative? Building reps are not errand runners. They aren’t chauffeurs, and they aren’t real estate agents or rental agents. They aren’t meant to carry a toolbox, and they aren’t acoustical engineers. Above all, they aren’t referees, social workers or psychologists. Residents should not be knocking on a building rep’s door or calling in the middle of the night concerning noisy grandchildren in someone else’s apartment or asking them to settle disputes over parking – those are issues for residents to call Community Response about, not their building rep. It’s a tough job, and building reps often feel caught in the middle between the residents and the association. They count on and receive the backing of the board, the BRC, BRZC and the association’s management and staff. The circle is complete when they receive that same backing of participation, confidence and support from their building's residents.
Do We Have Your Current Contact Information for the Association's Message System? The association uses community notification software called Pilera to communicate with our residents. This software allows us to contact you via home phone call, cell phone call, cell phone text, or email with important information. We encourage people to choose email or text messages as the method of receipt of these messages, as there have been some issues with residents receiving Pilera information via phone calls. Information communicated might include snow removal information, water shutoffs, other maintenance announcements, updates on work orders you have placed and important security alerts. To use this software as intended, we need accurate contact information from ALL of our residents. Does the association have your contact information?
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If you wish to change how you receive Pilera messages or want to confirm that you are registered, please contact the administrative office at 303-364-7485 for assistance. For more information on how to use the Pilera system, please see the article in the October 2022 Windsor Life, page 11. Copies of past issues of Windsor Life are available at the association website, www.windsorgardensdenver.org. Click on "Windsor Life ~ The News of Windsor Gardens" in the drop-down menu under the "Stay Connected" tab.
MAINTENANCE & GROUNDS UPDATES continued from page 8
Curb Stop Replacements: The curb stops for both the fire and domestic water lines were replaced in building 37. Doors: A new door was installed at the south end of CenterPoint. It is a slider door that replaced a double-swing door. HALLWAY REDECORATING CARPET REPLACEMENT Building 6 is in progress. Buildings 8 and 4 have been added to the schedule. PAINT DEPARTMENT Hallway Painting Project: Buildings 2 and 56 are complete. Building 42 is in progress. Other Projects: Work on building 21 includes the installation of a new hallway ceiling. Mudding and taping of seams is in progress. Sanding, texturing, and painting are the next steps. We are repairing water-damaged drywall and doing miscellaneous painting in common areas in buildings as needed.
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New Year Security Resolutions KEYS ON FILE WITH COMMUNITY RESPONSE From Chief of Community Response Chris Scovil Do you have keys on file with Community Response? Your extra keys can be used for emergencies and when you have locked yourself out of your unit. Place your labeled unit door keys and a building security door key on a key ring for Community Response. You can add other keys, like an extra storage room key, but the
basic set is best. If you have changed locks, ensure the keys on file with Community Response match. When you drop off your keys, make sure they are labeled, especially if you put them in the drop box outside the Community Response office door. Keys without labels end up in the lost and found or returned to maintenance if it’s a building security key.
EMERGENCY DATA SHEET UPDATES When you stop by the Community Response office to drop off or verify the keys you have on file with us, look at your Emergency Data Sheet (EDS) to ensure that it is also up to date and signed. The EDS, aka the “yellow sheet,” provides: A list of your emergency contacts. A list of names of people who you wish to allow or disallow access to your unit. Your approval or denial of health and welfare checks in your unit by Community Response.
Pet care instructions in case of an emergency. Other special considerations that you want Community Response to be aware of. Your EDS is secured with your extra keys in a locked cabinet behind a locked office door. It should be updated periodically as life events and contacts change. The EDS form is available online at the association website, www.windsorgardensdenver.org. Click on the Resource Center tab and then click on "Community Response Information and Medical Directives."
Community Response Activities, December 1 through December 26, 2023 CALLS RECEIVED
924
ROUTINE ACTIVITIES Escorts Keys Lockouts Parking Complaints Pet Complaints Security/Vacation Checks
0 151 33 12 9 131
EMERGENCIES Emergency Medical Assists Health and Welfare Check Smoke Investigation
55 15 26
POLICE ACTIVITIES Alarms Alleged Burglary/Thefts Attempted Burglary/Thefts
7 6 2
POLICE ACTIVITIES continued Criminal Mischief/Vandalism Noise Complaints Police Assist Suspicious Person Theft from Vehicle Theft of Vehicle Warning Tickets
25 24 5 12 1 2 7
The Cop Shop at WG The Cop Shop is operated by volunteers who work with the Denver Police Department to assist with citizen complaints, accident reports and other activities that would typically require a trip to the district station. Cop Shop Hours at WG: Leetsdale Cop Shop will be in CenterPoint from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, January 8; Friday, January 12; Monday, January 22; and Friday, January 26. We look forward to another great year of interaction with Windsor Gardens residents. We want to thank WG residents who contributed to our 4th annual hat, glove and scarf drive. A special shout out to Jeanne Lee who collected and inventoried all the items throughout December.
DEAR COP SHOP Dear Cop Shop: The police are so helpful, so I call them whenever I have questions. Is that wrong? Wondering Dear Wondering: Not necessarily wrong, but quite possibly taking the long way to getting your answer in many cases. The police respond to criminal matters, not general city service-related issues. Here are some resources you can call other than the police. You can report a variety of neighborhood issues online at the city information center. Type pocketgov.org into your browser and select “Online
Services Hub.” Then select “Report an Issue.” Create an account or continue as a guest. You can report issues with homeless encampments, abandoned cars, potholes, illegal parking and a host of other city-related items. While the police are always willing to talk with citizens, there are many situations where they would redirect you to another service. Of course, if a critical or dangerous situation is happening, call 911. The non-emergency police number is 720-913-2000 option 2, District 3 Police Department is 720-913-1300. Leetsdale Cop Shop is also available to you at 303-329-0500 (call or text) or e-mail us at leetsdalecopshop@hotmail.com. The Cop Shop
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Dayton Street Construction Notice: Wastewater Pipes Maintenance Work As part of wastewater treatment system maintenance by the city of Aurora, Metro Water Recovery is rehabilitating segments of corroded pipes within Aurora. Metro Water Recovery is waiting for a permit from the city of Denver to begin work on Dayton Street in January. They will be performing rehabilitation work on existing wastewater pipes that serve the area along the street. Work will initially be on a portion of Dayton Street south of Windsor Gardens up to the first street north of the High Line Canal. There will not be an impact on the Windsor Gardens entrances or exits during this stage. In February, construction work will be moving farther north on Dayton Street. The crews will not be blocking the WG entrances on Dayton Street. However, Dayton Street may be reduced to one lane, and flaggers will be helping with traffic flow. Parking will be restricted.
To do this work, the pipes must be dry, which involves using temporary above-ground piping to convey flows around the existing pipes. In intersections and entry points into Windsor Gardens on Dayton Street, temporary trenches will be dug for the pipe and covered to limit disruption as much as possible. It will take about a half day to do the trenching. The liner product that is used emits a slight plastic odor during the lining process. This odor is not harmful. There will be noise from the pumps while the work is being done, and the night work crews will use bright lights. Metro Water Recovery is committed to completing this routine maintenance project safely, efficiently and with minimal disturbances to local businesses, residents, and visitors.
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) Application Events at WG As utility costs continue to rise, we strongly encourage residents who qualify for LEAP (Low-Income Assistance Program) to attend one of the LEAP application events scheduled in January and February to apply for assistance. The income eligibility guidelines for the 2023-2024 season that began November 1, 2023, and ends April 30, 2024, are a maximum gross monthly income of $3,081 for a one-person household and $4,030 maximum gross monthly income for a two-person household. This program may help to offset utility expenses included in your HOA dues. Don’t wait! Please participate. Join us at the following open house application events:
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Monday, January 29, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., CenterPoint East Tuesday, February 20, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., CenterPoint East A representative from Denver’s LEAP division will be here to assist with the application process and to answer any questions you may have. Complimentary photocopies and copying assistance will be provided for required application documents. Please sign up for this event at the Activities Desk. Be sure to bring all the required documents as listed on the LEAP website at http://cdhs.colorado.gov/leap or you can find them on page 10 of the December 2023 issue of Windsor Life.
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Special Recycling Projects Statistics for 2023 The Windsor Gardens community supported several special recycling projects in 2023. Here are the results:
¼ 50+ pounds of batteries recycled
¼ 150 pounds of plastic film recycled (April 2023)
Well done, Windsor Gardens! And a special thank you to our recycling volunteers, Christine Taraskiewicz and Kathy Ford, for helping us make it happen!
¼ 786 cans and bottles collected during WG movie showings and recycled (April through December 2023)
¼ 27 pounds of lightbulbs recycled
¼ 12,546 pounds of electronics recycled (June 2023 and November 2023 events)
New Staff Introductions Assistant Activities Director Tessa Post Tessa Post has joined our staff as the assistant activities director. Tessa is originally from Maine but has lived in Denver for 15 years. Tessa has a bachelor’s degree in technical and business administration. Prior to Windsor Gardens, she was an event coordinator for two non-profits, planning and executing large-scale events. She enjoys the fast-paced excitement of event planning and will apply her skills and enthusiasm to her new role at Windsor Gardens. Tessa loves spending time with her 5-yearold son when she is not working and enjoys traveling, cooking, hiking, skiing, and, most of all, getting out in nature. Tessa is kind,
organized and diligent. We are excited to have Tessa at Windsor Gardens and know she will be a great addition to the activities department!
Receptionist Jodi Meisinger Jodi Meisinger is a new receptionist in the WG administration office. She is a Colorado native and grew up in Lakewood. Currently, she enjoys living near downtown Denver. Jodi loves animals, music and helping others. She has a strong background in customer service, a degree in sociology and is bilingual. We are happy to have Jodi on our team and look forward to the many ways she will positively impact our community. Welcome, Jodi!
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Windsor Life
Who is your Windsor Gardens Hero?
ay Heroes d y er v E
We would like to honor our community’s Everyday Heroes! These are people who go above and beyond for their neighbors or maybe they serve with kindness in smaller ways. Whether they drive neighbors to appointments, pick up groceries for someone in need, or offer a helping hand in other ways, there are everyday heroes amongst us! Everyday hero recommendation forms can be found in the fitness center lobby and outside of the activities office and can be returned to the administrative or activities offices staff. This is not a competition for an award, but an opportunity to acknowledge and commend the kindness and service that often goes unnoticed within our community. There are many everyday heroes among us, and we’d like to recognize them.
Norman Roeder
Community Response
Norman Roeder works tirelessly, gathering aluminum cans to recycle into cash for veterans. Folks from around parking lot 14 and the entire community leave cans in the bed of his dark blue Ford pickup for him to retrieve and crush daily. Though he needs a walker these days to get around, Norman still generously provides help daily to anyone who asks.
“My mother fell in her home, and we needed assistance. Community Response was so helpful in getting my mother the assistance that saved her life. She is back at home and doing well!” Submitted by Angie White.
Submitted by the residents of Building 42.
Building 57 Profile Windsor Gardens' building 57 is fortunate to have Terry Paige as the building representative. He does more than just the building representative duties. He checks all the doors at night, delivers packages, cleans the lobby and hallways and checks on people with health issues. Terry served in the Air Force for eight years as a paratrooper. He graduated from the University of Colorado and was in the banking business before retiring. Our thanks also go to Jackie Blount, alternate building representative (who helps keep the building tidy), Cindy Scott, treasurer, and Suzanne Chapman, secretary.
Janie and Jim Morrison deserve a big thanks for planning and preparing the building lunches and holiday celebrations. Not only do they have delicious food, but they also plan fun games. And a huge thank you to all those who help decorate our building inside and outside for the holidays, including Gloria Waurzynaik, Donna Kelly, Gail Coakley, Glenda Cross, Peggy Brown and Janie and Jim Morrison.
Building 57 Rep Terry Paige
We are lucky to have so many who care about taking care of building 57!
Tell us about your building representative and building community. Email your building number, the name of your building rep and a brief description of the accomplishments of your building and building rep over the last few years to Bobbie Mays at bobbie.mays@wgamail. com. If you have questions, please contact Bobbie.
Upcoming New Resident Orientations The association's administrative office will be holding several new resident orientation meetings this month. One session via Zoom and the others in-person in the administrative office. Please call 303-364-7485 or email Karen Arellano at karellano@ wgamail.com for availability and to set up an appointment for either an in-person or Zoom orientation. IN-PERSON ORIENTATIONS Thursday, January 11, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 16, 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, January 25, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 30, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Where: Administrative Office, 595 S. Clinton St.
Welcome to Our New Neighbors Bldg 6 32
Name Alex Kishivensky Stephen Duran Jr.
From Centennial, CO Arvada, CO
ZOOM ORIENTATION Tuesday, January 9, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Join by computer Go to www.zoom.com. Click “Join a meeting”.Enter the meeting ID: 833 556 5532 and passcode: 015668 Join by phone 1. Call 720-928-9299 2. You will be prompted to enter the meeting ID: 833 556 5532 # 3. You will be prompted to enter a participant ID: Just hit # 4. You will be prompted to enter the meeting password: 015668 # 5. You will be put on hold for the host to allow you to join the meeting.
WG Online Welcome Packet At the association website, www.windsorgardensdenver.org, under the Resource Center tab, you can access the WG Welcome Packet, which includes the orientation booklet and several forms.
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Annual Southeast Denver Gives Blood Drive: Give the Gift of Life I am thrilled to announce the launch of Council District 5’s Annual Southeast Denver Gives Blood Drive, taking place January 1-31, 2024. January is National Blood Donor Month, and my office has helped support this cause for the past four years. In collaboration with Lowry's Vitalant Blood Donation Center, our mission each year has been to collect 75 blood donations within one month, Councilwoman potentially saving up to 225 lives. Every Amanda two seconds, someone in the United States Sawyer requires a lifesaving blood transfusion. Our hospitals and emergency treatment centers are in constant need of approximately: • 29,000 units of red blood cells
• 5,000 units of platelets • 6,500 units of plasma
As of late November, Colorado was down 25% in blood collections, highlighting the urgent need for donations. Blood donation is a profound way to make a difference in our community and save lives. We invite you to join us in this life-affirming endeavor! To schedule your donation appointment, visit https://bit.ly/ SEDenverGivesBlood24. This link will take you to a Facebook
event where you can find Vitalant’s registration link for the blood drive. From there, click on the unique link to book your appointment! Vitalant, one of the nation's most established nonprofit community blood service providers, offers comprehensive transfusion medicine services to nearly 1,000 hospitals and healthcare partners across 40 states. Their Lowry location at 717 Yosemite St., just north of the Great Lawn, is the largest among the nine Vitalant centers in Colorado. You can give blood at any Vitalant location and still contribute to District 5’s blood drive. Learn more about eligibility, donating funds if you're unable to give blood and more at vitalant.org. To ensure your donation counts towards our goal, kindly mention the Southeast Denver Gives Blood Drive when you check in at the donation center. If you're inspired to do so, consider sharing a photo of your donation experience on your social media channels with the hashtag #SEDenverGivesBlood. As we embark on 2024, I hope it brings you and your loved ones joy and good health. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our office. You can find the District 5 team at: Email: denvercouncil5@ denvergov.org Phone: 720-337-5555 Website: bit.ly/D5Website
instagram.com/denvercouncil5 twitter.com/denvercouncil5 facebook.com/DenverCouncil5
District 5 Project Night Open House District 5 Project Night, hosted by Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer, is a unique "Open House" event offering you the chance to connect with various government agencies, learn about ongoing neighborhood specific projects, and engage in conversations about our community. Join us on Tuesday, January 30, 5:30 p.m.
to 7:30 p.m., at George Washington High School. Representatives from agencies like Denver Parks and Recreation, Denver Public Library, Denver DOTI, Denver Police Department, Denver Fire Department, and more will be present to showcase their D5 projects and initiatives.
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2023 HOLIDAY LIGHTS Holiday Lights Contest Winners
2-STORY BUILDINGS: 1ST PLACE
4-STORY BUILDINGS: 1ST PLACE
Building 22 – 765 S. Alton Way
Building 40 – 645 S. Alton Way
COMMUNITY FAVORITE Building 27 750 S. Alton Way
2-STORY BUILDINGS: 2ND PLACE Building 25 – 755 S. Clinton St.
Go to our WG Facebook page or scan the below QR code to view our holiday lights videos, including this year’s displays and a special feature from the City and County of Denver’s “Elevating Denver” series about the longstanding holiday lights tradition at Windsor Gardens.
4-STORY BUILDINGS: 2ND PLACE Building 27 – 750 S. Alton Way
Photos by John S. Miller 2-STORY BUILDINGS: 3RD PLACE
4-STORY BUILDINGS: 3RD PLACE
Building 5 – 625 S. Clinton St.
Building 64 – 9385 E Center Ave.
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2023 HOLIDAY LIGHTS
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Photo Album WG Drama Class Performances “DEATH ABOARD THE DUCHESS"
Ballet Ariel at WG
“THE TREASURE OF HUCKLEBERRY RIDGE"
On December 19, the WG auditorium turned into a delightful tearoom for the presentation of Ballet Ariel's “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Photos from Jeanne Lee. You can view short videos of Ballet Ariel's performance at the association's Facebook page.
Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra Holiday Concert
On December 2 and 3, the WG Drama Class presented a double feature: “Death Aboard the Duchess,” an intriguing murder mystery with quirky characters who all have something to hide, and "The Treasure of Huckleberry Ridge," a good oldfashioned melodrama. Photos from Jeanne Lee. Check out the fun video montage of “The Treasure of Huckleberry Ridge” created by Deborah Axsom at the WG Facebook page, www.facebook www.facebook.com/ WindsorGardensAssociation.
It was a jazzy holiday at WG with the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra! Holiday concert on December 14. Thank you, CJRO, for an amazing night of live music! Photo from Jeanne Lee. See several short videos of their concert at www.facebook.com/WindsorGardensAssociation.
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Photo Album Colorado Children's Chorale Performance
Annual Decorating of the Spruce Tree
Celebrating their 50th anniversary, the Colorado Children's Chorale created an atmosphere of holiday cheer during the Windsor Gardens Celebration of Lights. The group travels worldwide and anticipates a performance at Carnegie Hall this spring. Photo from Jeanne Lee. Don't miss the video clips of their delightful performance on the WG Facebook page!
The WG grounds crew gets the prize for decorating the tallest tree every year at WG. There's even a star on top! Photos from Deborah Axsom.
WG Optimist Club Oratorical Contest
3 Ways to Contribute Your Photos Î EMAIL your photos to Lori at windsorlife@wgamail.com. Î UPLOAD your photos online by copying or typing the following address into your internet browser and then hitting enter: bit.ly/3HEbdT7 This will take you to the WG Dropbox account. Follow the instructions for attaching your photo files. Please type your name and a brief title in the file name so we can give you credit. Î UPLOAD your photos using the WG QR code. Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera. A “flowcode.com” link will pop up on your phone. Click on the link. Please type your name and a brief title in the file name so we can give you credit.
Upper-class JROTC Cadets from 11 Denver public schools participated in the WG Optimist Club Oratorical Contest on December 1. The topic: “What amendment of the Bill of Rights would you change and why?” Photo from Joel James. "New year—a new chapter, new verse, or just the same old story? Ultimately we write it. The choice is ours.” —Alex Morritt
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Windsor Life
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ACTIVITIES WG
CLASSES
Classes will resume in the new year beginning the week of January 8, 2024. Happy New Year!
ARTS & CRAFTS
¡ CREATIVE GLASS: Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the CERAMICS ROOM. ¡ DRAWING: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the ART ROOM. ¡ HAND-BUILT POTTERY: Mondays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the CERAMICS ROOM. ¡ KNITTING/CROCHET: Mondays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the SEWING ROOM. The class' focus is knitting and crochet projects and techniques. Our instructor will lead and be available for any help you may need. ¡ SEWING CLASS & LAB: Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the SEWING ROOM. Different techniques such as seaming and hemming are taught. This is also an open lab time for those wanting to use the sewing machines. ¡ WATERCOLOR: Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the ART ROOM.
BRIDGE
¡ BRIDGE BASICS: Mondays from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the COLORADO ROOM. ¡ DUPLICATE BRIDGE: Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the ASPEN ROOM.
BRIDGE continued
¡ DUPLICATE / INTERMEDIATE BRIDGE: Mondays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the COLORADO ROOM.
DANCE
¡ BALLROOM DANCE (BEGINNERS): Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ BALLROOM DANCE (INTERMEDIATE): Thursdays from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ LINE DANCE (BEGINNER & INTERMEDIATE): Mondays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM.
FITNESS
¡ AQUA FITNESS: Mondays, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. (beginner classes), and Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. ¡ BREATHE & MOVE, QIGONG: Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ CHAIR EXERCISE: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ CHAIR ZUMBA: Saturdays from 10:10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in the AUDITORIUM.
FITNESS continued
¡ LOW-IMPACT AEROBICS: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ PILATES: Mondays and Wednesdays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ STRENGTH & INTERVAL TRAINING: Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ TAI CHI: Tuesdays from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. Enjoy this class at your own pace, standing or sitting in a chair. ¡ WEIGHT TRAINING: Mondays and Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ YOGA: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the AUDITORIUM. ¡ ZUMBA: Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the AUDITORIUM.
PERFORMING ARTS
¡ CHORUS: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in CENTERPOINT WEST. ¡ DRAMA: Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM.
INDOOR POOL
FITNESS CENTER INSTRUCTION
Weekly indoor pool schedules are available outside the Activities Office and on the WG website: www.windsorgardensdenver.org.
Drop in and work with instructor Kathy Zimmer in the fitness center on a few dates each month. FREE for residents.
D P L B O O K M O B I L E AT W G The Denver Public Library Bookmobile will be at WG on January 12 and 26 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in CENTERPOINT.
This month's dates and times: Thursday, January 4, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, January 12, 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tuesday, January 16, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
WG LIBRARY The WG Library is located on CENTERPOINT's second floor and is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. New books in the glass cases include titles on the bestseller lists and may be checked out with volunteers Monday through Friday, 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., excluding holidays. The open shelves hold an extensive selection of books that you may borrow anytime during the day. NEW BOOKS December 2023 Suspense Checkout: “Code Red” by Vince Flynn “Dirty Thirty” by Janet Evanovich “The Edge” by David Baldacci “None of This is True” by Lisa Jewell “Not Forever but for Now” by Chuck Palahniuk
“The Secret” by Lee Child Fiction Checkout: “Go as a River” by Shelley Read “Lady Tan's Circle of Women” by Lisa See “The Last Ranger” by Peter Heller “The Little Liar” by Mitch Albom “So Late in the Day” by Claire Keegan
Fantasy Checkout: “Fall of Ruin and Wrath” by Jennifer L Armentrout Fiction Paperback: “Secrets in the Dark” by Heather Graham
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ACTIVITIES WINDSOR HAPPENINGS Events are listed in chronological order. ¡ COLORADO TRAIL PRESENTATION with JOSH ROYAL of the DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY: Friday, January 12, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in CENTERPOINT. Joshua Royal discusses his adventures hiking the Colorado trail – 500 miles from Denver to Durango. FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk. ¡ AARP SAFE DRIVING CLASS: Monday, January 15, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in CENTERPOINT WEST. Check with your insurance carrier for details regarding a possible discount of up to 15% on your auto insurance after completing this class. COST: $20 per person for AARP members or $25 for non-members to be paid at class. Sign up in advance at the Activities Desk. ¡ OUTLAW TALES OF COLORADO presented by KATHLEEN ARNOLD: Wednesday, January 17, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in CENTERPOINT. There are
EVENT TICKET SALES Activities Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Need to Buy a Ticket Outside of Business Hours?
If you are interested in purchasing a ticket for an event or desire to sign up for an activity but are unable to come by the Activities Office during business hours, please reach out! We are happy to accommodate your schedule and make arrangements for you to do so! Please contact Steve Follweiler at 720-8621533 or sfollweiler@wgamail.com.
tales of the Old West as a wild, lawless place where outlaws, rustlers and gangs ruled before lawmen and governments came along and attempted to tame it. Often, there was a fine line between an outlaw and a lawman as corruption ruled the West. FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk.
¡ ACTIVE MINDS – ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: Thursday, January 18, at 2 p.m. in CENTERPOINT. The recent release of the artificial intelligence program Chat GPT has catapulted this technology to the forefront of global conversations. The enormous potential of this technology has many people both excited and fearful. Join Active Minds as we explain what artificial intelligence (AI) is, how it can be used for good, and the potential for abuse. FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk. ¡ NATIONAL POPCORN DAY: Celebrate with us! Stop by the ACTIVITIES OFFICE on Friday, January 19, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and grab a small bag of popcorn! While supplies last! ¡ TRIVIA FUN DAY: Friday, January 19, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in CENTERPOINT, always the third Friday of the month. You can be part of a team and compete to win bragging rights. continued on page 23
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ACTIVITIES W I N D S O R H A P P E N I N G S continued continued from page 22
You don’t have to know it all. Come to have fun and possibly learn a thing or two. Form a team or join a team. Everyone is welcome. ¡ SATURDAY MONTHLY DANCE: Saturday, January 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. DJ Jim Milavec will provide musical entertainment. Treats and punch will be served, as well as a good time! COST: $7 for residents; $10 for nonresidents at the door. ¡ BRECKENRIDGE ICE SCULPTURES: Wednesday, January 24. The bus will load in front of the AUDITORIUM beginning at 9 a.m. and depart by 9:30 a.m. Ice artists from around the world will compete from January 22 through January 26 in Breckenridge at the International Ice Sculpture Championships. Sculptures start as 12-foot-tall, 20+ ton blocks of ice. Teams from all over the world will compete using only hand tools. Artists achieve finished pieces across five days (65 hours) of sculpting in this one-ofa-kind event. The atmosphere is celebratory! You will have time to walk around the sculptures, cast your people’s choice vote (voting begins at noon), have lunch at one of the many restaurants and perhaps do some shopping. The group will depart Breckenridge by 3:30 p.m. COST: $40 per person. Bus trip and gratuity are included. No refunds after Wednesday, January 17. Lunch is on your own. ¡ NATURAL GROCERS’ WELLNESS CLASS – BUILDING HEALTHY & DELICIOUS MEALS: Friday, January 26, at 10 a.m. in CENTERPOINT
WEST. Let’s get back to basics! Discover the importance of getting off the blood sugar roller coaster using high-quality proteins, fats and carbohydrates to build healthy and delicious meals. FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk. ¡ BINGO with the BOOKMOBILE TEAM: Friday, January 26, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. Come join the friendly bookmobile team from the Denver Public Library as they host a rousing bingo session with some fabulous prizes. ¡ COLORADO LOW-INCOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE (LEAP) APPLICATION ASSISTANCE: Monday, January 29, and Tuesday, February 20, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. in CENTERPOINT EAST. A representative from LEAP will be at WG to assist with the application process and to answer any questions you may have. You can submit your application on-site! Please sign up at the Activities Desk. ¡ NOURISH COLORADO PRESENTATION – DOUBLE UP FOOD BUCKS: Tuesday, January 30, at 1 p.m. in CENTERPOINT. Double Up Food Bucks is a nutrition incentive program that matches SNAP purchases, dollar-for-dollar, up to $20 a day, in fresh produce and dried beans at participating locations across the state. Meet Outreach Manager Caitlin Stuart and learn how this program can help SNAP shoppers afford more locally-grown, fresh fruits and vegetables. Caitlin will also discuss how you can be involved in Nourish Colorado's food access and policy work and will have promotional items to share with attendees.
¡ ENTERTAINMENT LUNCHEON – A WINTER MAGIC SHOW with RICARDO THE MAGICIAN: Tuesday, February 13, at 11:30 a.m. in CENTERPOINT. This will be an interactive show full of laughs, a bit of magic and a whole lot of fun. The ticket includes a small sandwich, salad, chips, drinks and dessert. COST: Ticket Price: $16. Tickets are available for purchase at the Activities Desk. ¡ BUS TRIP & PRIVATE STUDIO TOUR – DENVER PERFORMING ARTS CENTER: Tuesday, February 20, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Join RTD’s MTM Travel Trainers on an escorted bus trip for the DCPA Studio Tour. Participants will meet in the CENTERPOINT LOBBY at 8 a.m. to take the #3 bus westbound from Center Ave/Clinton St to Alameda Station, transfer to the D line at 9:01 a.m. and arrive at the Helen Bonfits Theatre complex at 9:17 a.m. The group will be there early but can get a coffee before the tour, which begins at 10 a.m. The DCPA Studio Tour is approximately 90 minutes, moving at your own pace. Everyone will regroup after the tour for lunch, catch the 12:30 p.m. D Line and return to WG by approximately 1:30 p.m. All participants should consider their ability to walk up to two blocks and bring appropriate mobility aids or companions to assist. Please sign up at the Activities Desk. COST: $12 studio tour tickets are available at the Activities Desk. $3 for the RTD senior day pass will be paid (exact change) on the bus or through the RTD MyRide App. Coffee and lunch are on your own.
FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk.
WG DANCES ¡ MONTHLY DANCE: Saturday, January 20, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. Musical entertainment will be provided by DJ Jim Milavec as “The Cat in a Hat.” Treats and punch will be served, as well as a good time! COST: $7 for residents; $10 for nonresidents at the door.
CASINO TRIPS BALLY’S CASINO VIA PREMIER CHARTERS: Tuesday, January 16. The bus departs from the ADMINISTRATIVE PARKING LOT at 9:20 a.m. and will depart the casino at 2:30 p.m. to return. To ensure we meet trip minimums and avoid cancellations, please try to sign up by January 5. COST: $20 per person at the Activities Desk. Tickets must be purchased prior to the day of departure. All bus riders must sign a bus waiver or update an existing waiver. No refunds offered after Friday, January 12.
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ACTIVITIES W I N D S O R H A P P E N I N G S continued MONTHLY MOVIES COST: $5 per person includes a great movie, a small bag of popcorn, soda or water and candy. Purchase tickets at the door. Please, no bills larger than $20. Whenever possible, closed captioning is utilized. JULES Saturday, January 13, 2 p.m., WG AUDITORIUM From acclaimed filmmaker Ben Kingsley comes a crowd pleaser. Milton’s quiet retirement is upended when a UFO crashes in his backyard. The unexpected friendship he develops with its alien passenger, Jules,
helps him find meaning in his later years and newfound connections he never knew he needed. Rating: PG 13. Runtime: 1hr 30m. A HAUNTED MANSION Saturday, January 27, 2 p.m., WG AUDITORIUM Inspired by the classic theme park attraction, "Haunted Mansion" features an all-star cast and tells the story of a woman (Rosario Dawson) and her son who enlist a motley crew of so-called spiritual experts to help rid their home of supernatural squatters. Starring LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish, Owen Wilson, Danny DeVito, and Rosario Dawson. Rating: PG-13. Runtime: 2hr 3m.
D I G I TA L TA B L E T R E N TA L WG residents may rent a digital tablet for just $1 per day. Your first rental will be FREE (up to 7 days). The tablets are equipped with unlimited data for internet access, video calls, virtual classes, and much more. To rent a tablet, call Community Life Manager Cari Ervin at 720-862-1590.
CARDS & GAME GROUPS BID WHIST: 1st and 3rd Saturdays of every month from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the CARD ROOM. Call Ron for information at 720-363-1076. BRIDGE: THURSDAY AFTERNOON PARTY BRIDGE every Thursday afternoon from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the ASPEN ROOM. Bring five nickels. Contact Pat Stein with any questions: 303-720-0504. COMMUNITY GAME NIGHT: Join us the 2nd Friday of every month in the
COLORADO ROOM from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Bring your favorite game or try a new one! MAHJONG: Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the CARD ROOM. PINOCHLE: FRIDAY NIGHT PINOCHLE in the ASPEN ROOM. New starting time at 6 p.m. For more information, call Bert and Katy at 720-413-6627. POKER: Wednesdays, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the CARD ROOM. Dealer’s choice.
RUMMIKUB: 1st and 3rd Fridays of the month from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the ALL-PURPOSE ROOM. This is a tile-based game for three or four players, combining elements of rummy and dominoes. For more information, call Jeanne at 303-885-3216. SCRABBLE GROUP: Mondays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the ASPEN ROOM. Join us for this popular crossword board game! Contact Beth Vaden at 303-875-3422 or par4beth@msn.com with any questions.
CLUBS & GROUPS ART CLUB will meet on the first Friday at 10 a.m. in the COLORADO ROOM. For more information, contact Stuart Emery, emery1625@gmail.com, or Elizabeth Peck, bettyannpeck@yahoo.com. Original artworks by members are available for viewing and purchase in the display case at CenterPoint. BRITS GROUP: Are you British, Welsh, Scottish, Irish, Australian, or an anglophile? Come join us! Please contact Val Cristy at 303-856-7742 or Kathy Young at 303-945-8631 for more information. CERAMICS CLUB: Every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the CERAMICS ROOM. Explore the world of ceramics with a fun group of WG residents. We take field trips to purchase bisque, paints
and glazes. Come on in and see what we are up to! Make something new for your condo!
hear from CHC speakers about the many areas we can support.
CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL COLORADO ASSOCIATION OF VOLUNTEERS, WG CHAPTER, would like to wish everyone a wonderful New Year. For more information about our group or if you would like to donate new boxes of crayons and markers, coloring activity and puzzle books for the hospital patients or would like to purchase our cookbook for $5, contact Linda Kumar, chapter president, at 303-253-4201.
DEMOCRATIC CLUB will meet Wednesday, January 10, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., in CENTERPOINT. The meeting will feature Denver District Attorney candidates. For more information, contact windsorgardensdemocraticclub@gmail.com.
Our group will next meet on Monday, January 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in CENTERPOINT WEST. Everyone is welcome to join us and
All are welcome to also join us for dinner at El Gran Jardin Restaurant at 5 p.m. prior to the meeting. DRUM CIRCLE meets on the 2nd Sunday of each month from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in CENTERPOINT WEST. Come check us out! Bring your own drum or try out one of the continued on page 25
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extra instruments brought by our members. Visitors are always welcome. Any questions, please call Diane at 720-653-9354. ¡ ENCORE DANCE meets on Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the COLORADO ROOM. We have great fun dancing to show tunes, jazz, western, rock 'n roll, and big band sounds. For more information, contact Hillary Hutson at spicy47@comcast.net or 303-9194512. FLAG CORPS AT WG: Are you passionate about our nation’s flag? Do you post the flag for your building? This group is for those with a common interest to meet and share their knowledge of the flags of the U.S. and Colorado and promote their proper respect, handling and display. Join us every other first Monday at 11 a.m. in the ASPEN ROOM. Next meeting: Monday, February 5. FUN FRIDAYS GOLF GROUP: A group of WG residents and friends of all skill levels (especially beginners and intermediates) who play golf just for fun. No competition. Keeping score is a choice. No
dues. Just a desire to enjoy the game and make new friends. Ask about the Fun Fridays Golf Group (FFGG) in the golf shop, or call Barbara at 224-622-5984. ¡ LAPIDARY CLUB meets Friday mornings from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Rocks, gems, jewelry, bookends, cut/polish, and tumble. The lapidary shop is located off the alleyway by the outdoor pool. Drop by and meet others. Questions? Call Larry at 720256-3359. MARINE CORPS LEAGUE – WINDSOR MARINES/FRANK J. CARROLL & AUXILIARY will meet on Tuesday, January 9, at 7 p.m. in CENTERPOINT and will conduct our annual election of officers. Call Commandant Don Howell at 720-216-0993 or Barry Georgopulos at 303-360-6302 for more information. Once a Marine – Always a Marine. THE LADIES AUXILIARY supports the Marine Corps, Marine families, Wounded Warriors, youth programs, scholarships, and a variety of Marine and veteran-related programs and activities. We are sure there are many eligible ladies (any Marine relation)
in Windsor Gardens and would like to welcome you to join us as members of the extended Marine family. We normally meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in CENTERPOINT. Our next meeting is on January 9 at 7 p.m. in the AUDITORIUM. Call Suzie Georgopulos at 720-717-5028 for more information. Semper Fidelis. MEN’S GROUP: A resident has started a men’s group at WG. This group could include activities such as sport watch parties, fantasy football, horseshoes, billiards, ping pong, “guy talk” coffee or lunches, or occasional field trips. If interested in joining this group, please reach out to Randy at planetpeters@aol.com for more information. OPTIMIST CLUB will next meet on Tuesday, January 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in CENTERPOINT. Join us to find out how the Optimists serve and support children in our local community. If you'd like to join us for lunch, please contact Carol at 303-3634113 or come to the meeting. PAPER CRAFTING CLUB meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month from continued on page 26
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10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the ART ROOM. This group strives to give people a social outlet and a pleasant atmosphere as they work on scrapbooking, greeting cards, origami, and other paper crafts. For more information, email Carolyn at motalcarolyn@gmail.com. PING PONG is available in the COLORADO ROOM on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. All levels are welcome: beginners to advanced. Keep an eye out for future workshops! Bring your own paddle if you have one or some are available. PRIDE WINDSOR GARDENS: We are a LGBTQ+ group and our allies. If you would like to be added to our email list or more information, contact Dawn at Drsvamp2@aol. com or call/text 720-937-1007. QUILTS OF VALOR: The WG chapter meets on the first Saturday of each month in the SEWING ROOM from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. We work on sewing quilts to be given to veterans. All sewers are welcome. If you would like more information about the organization or wish to nominate a veteran to receive a quilt, visit the website QOVF.org. REPUBLICAN CLUB: The caucus will be held in CENTERPOINT on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Doors will open at approximately 5:30 p.m. and the caucus will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Start thinking about getting involved or joining the club now! Meetings are held on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. in CENTERPOINT. All are welcome to attend. For more information email djt2017@hotmail.com. SIGN LANGUAGE FOR BEGINNERS GROUP meets on Tuesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the ALLPURPOSE ROOM. Join instructor Bruce as he teaches and explores sign language vocabulary and conversational sign language. SINGLE CHRISTIAN WOMEN meet every third Saturday of the month at 3 p.m. in the ASPEN ROOM. For more information, contact Darnell Castleman at 720-955-7558 or darnellcastleman@gmail. com. SMOKE-FREE WG CLUB: Interested in living in a smoke-free community? This club meets every second and fourth Monday of the month from 3:30 p.m.
to 5 p.m. Join us on January 8 and 22 in the ALL-PURPOSE ROOM. We will not meet on New Year’s Day. Working together on several fronts, we continue to inform neighbors of the ongoing impact of secondhand smoke on our health, safety and property values. We are investigating several leads to assist with changes to our current policy. Your help is always needed! SPANISH LANGUAGE EXPLORERS meet on Mondays in the EL GRAN JARDIN BANQUET ROOM. Beginners meet from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., and intermediates meet from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Have you always wanted to learn Spanish? Or do you know a little bit and want to learn more? If so, then this group is for you! TIME4TAP: If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to tap dance or renew your skills, Time4Tap is for you. We meet on Tuesdays in the AUDITORIUM. Intermediate/advanced tap meets from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., and beginners tap meets from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. If you have questions, call or email Julie Whalen at 303-550-5985 or jwhalen97@ comcast.net or just drop in on a Tuesday and make Time4Tap! TORAH DISCUSSION CLUB meets every Thursday from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the ALL-PURPOSE ROOM. We read and discuss the ancient Jewish Bible to better understand what it means in today's society. Jewish and non-Jewish residents are invited. To join, please contact Nate Khodadad at 720-989-5479. TRAVEL GROUP meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in CENTERPOINT WEST. We invite you to peek into travel around the world with us. Presentations by members have included Paris to Peru, Hawaii to Arizona, a river cruise on the Rhine, and RVing around the U.S. Members’ travel adventures from past and present are brought to life with pictures, stories and memorabilia. Stop by and join us for some “travel talk”. Questions? Contact Coral at 720-975-6702 at believecla@gmail. com. WARM HEARTS WARM BABIES: Would you like to help make blankets and clothing for premature and newborn infants in crisis? All material and yarn will be furnished, or you can use your own stash. We meet on the second Thursday
of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the SEWING ROOM. Limited seating. Contact Barbara at Ilove2sewbarb@gmail.com to get more information. WG CHRONICLES GROUP: Interested in Windsor Gardens history? Join this club to help curate the WG archives. Through their work, the club is organizing and preserving the story of our community. Members work independently using their own personal computers, reviewing and tagging with keywords years of photos and articles. If you are interested in helping, please contact Dennis Knight at dpknight@mail.com. WINDSOR COMMUNITY GARDEN CLUB: Do you have a passion for produce? A hankering for herbs? An affinity to flowers? Check out the Windsor Community Gardens Club (WCGC)! We are a volunteer-led organic community garden club. The community gardens are popular, and even with 79 individual garden plots in two locations, you will most likely be placed on a waitlist to gain a four-year plot assignment. More information is located on the WG website at the “Welcome” tab. Click on “Community Gardens” in the drop-down menu under the tab. You can also email us at WCGCboard@gmail.com. WINDSOR WALKERS: Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:15 a.m. in the AUDITORIUM. Walk to music at your own pace. WINDSOR WRITERS: Mondays at 9 a.m. in the ASPEN ROOM. Join us for the joy of writing and sharing short pieces weekly on a variety of topics that members take turns choosing. No qualifications are needed, just creative folks who enjoy writing and sharing observations, ideas, and stories. GOLF WINDSORETTES LEAGUE: For information regarding the Windsorettes, please contact Charlotte at 303-341-4628 or Kristin at 303-819-0130. WOOD CARVERS & CRAFTERS meet every Monday and Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the ART ROOM. If you enjoy wood carving, wood burning, intarsia, scroll saw art, origami, leather crafting, leather carving, found art sculpting, steampunk art, crafting fishing flies and lures, or any other hands-on crafting, then this group is for you! If you have any questions or want more info, call Howard at 303-667-6000.
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F A I T H G R O U P S @ WG CATHOLIC MASS, FIRST FRIDAY: Mass is held on the first Friday at 9:30 a.m. in CENTERPOINT EAST. All are welcome. CATHOLIC MASS, SUNDAY: Mass is held on Sundays in CENTERPOINT
at 1 p.m. Catholic Scripture Study on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. in the ALL-PURPOSE ROOM. WINDSOR GARDENS CHURCH invites you to our Sunday morning service from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in CENTERPOINT.
All WG residents are welcome. Monday Bible Study is from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the BANQUET ROOM at the El Gran Jardin Restaurant. A break will be taken during the holidays and then we will return after the first of the year. More information will follow.
LOCAL COMMUNITY EVENTS ¡ HUDSON GARDENS NEW YEAR LIGHTS: January 2 through January 28, Continue your holiday season celebrations at Hudson Gardens upbeat “Light Up the New Year” show. On January 1, the gardens will transform to feature an entirely new exhibit to ring in the new year! Join your friends and family and immerse yourself in the colorful nautilus forest, color cubes, mesmerizing sphere and more. Doors open at 5 p.m. The last entrance is at 8:45 p.m. and lights are out at 9:30 p.m. Plan to spend 1.5 hours walking around, taking photos, and grabbing a beverage or snack, regardless of which show you see. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and $15 for children (3 to 12). Parking is FREE. 6115 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton.
¡ MEMORY CAFÉ with the DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY is a fun place to socialize, relax and engage with people experiencing memory loss and their families/caregivers. Each cafe has a focus—such as music or art. Some upcoming programs: − SING-ALONG with Amy Sweetin of Swallow Hill Music: Tuesday, January 9, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Virginia Village Library in the Mead Community Room. − AGELESS GRACE BRAIN WORKOUT: Tuesday, January 16, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Virginia Village Library in the Mead Community Room.
− AMERICAN ARTISTS from The Philip Collection with the Denver Art Museum: Tuesday, January 23, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Virginia Village Branch Library in the Mead Community Room. ¡ WINTER OF READING with the DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY: Get ready for your next great read by decorating a custom bookmark or have one of our reader's advisory experts help you with your next pick (or two). All supplies provided; just bring your creativity. You can also sign up for Winter of Reading. − DECORATE A BOOKMARK: Saturday, January 13, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hampden Library Community Room. continued on page 28
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− BOOK BUZZ: Wednesday, January 17, 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Ross-Cherry Creek Library Basement Community Room. For more information or to register for a cafe, email Amy DelPo at ADelpo@ denverlibrary.org. ¡ JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OFFERINGS − RECREATION TIME: January 9,16, 23, and 30 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Perlmutter Room. − BEGINNING MAHJONG: January 9,16, 23, and 30 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Mizel Reception Room. − SENIOR ARTS & CRAFTS: January 10 and 24 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Mizel Reception Room. Craft beautiful, handmade creations while listening to music and enjoying the pleasure of one another’s company. FREE. Registration is required at bbecker@jccdenver.org or 303-316-6320 − MONTHLY BINGO: Thursday, January 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Mizel Reception Room. FREE. Registration is required at bbecker@jccdenver.org or 303-316-6320
− CURRENT EVENTS & SCHMOOZE: January 12,19 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Mizel Reception Room. FREE. Registration is required at bbecker@ jccdenver.org or 303-316-6320 − SENIOR BOOK CLUB – FINDING REFUGE: Thursday, January 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Wolf Room. FREE. Registration is required at bbecker@jccdenver.org or 303-316-6320 − INTERMEDIATE MAHJONG: January 21 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Mizel Reception Room. Sliding scale price (for the entire series). Registration is required at bbecker@jccdenver.org or 303-3166320 ¡ SENIOR COURSES
PLANET
TECH
Location for all below courses: Senior Planet Center in Lowry at 7585 E Academy Blvd. − ANDROID ESSENTIALS: January 8 through February 7; Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. − COMPUTER BASICS: January 8 through March 13; Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. − BEYOND THE BASICS (WINDOWSBASED): January 8 through March 13;
Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. − BEYOND THE BASICS (APP-BASED): January 9 through March 13; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. − COMPUTER BASICS: January 9 through March 14; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. − IPAD BASICS: January 9 through March 14; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. − SMARTPHONE PHOTOGRAPHY: January 9 through February 8; Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. − BEYOND THE BASICS (WINDOWSBASED): January 10 through March 15; Mondays and Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. 2:45 p.m. ¡ HAPPY HOUR with SENIOR PLANET: Thursday, January 25, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Senior Planet Center in Lowry (7585 E Academy Blvd). This event is a great time to meet and mingle with people over food and drinks! ¡ SLEEP APNEA PRESENTATION with SENIOR PLANET: Friday, January 26, from 12:45 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Senior Planet Center in Lowry (7585 E Academy Blvd).
Please Note: Some paid listings in the below sections are for upcoming informational meetings, workshops, or seminars related to commercial products or services conducted by outside individuals or groups not affiliated with Windsor Gardens. Please be aware that the products or services discussed or offered during such meetings are not endorsed, sponsored, or approved by the Windsor Gardens Board of Directors or management of Windsor Gardens Association, nor is your attendance necessarily encouraged. Residents who attend such meetings are urged to carefully research the product or services that may be offered through these meetings before entering into any agreement or contract to purchase. The Windsor Gardens Association assumes no responsibility other than for the rental of meeting facilities.
ANNOUNCEMENTS RTD GROCERY TRIPS: Two Thursday trips to King Soopers and Safeway.
− Pickups at WG at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. The bus stops at the main entrance on Clinton St., continues around to E. Center Ave., S. Alton Way, S. Clinton St., and then exits on E. Center Ave. − Bus returns for pickups at King Soopers at 11:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. − Bus returns for pickups at Safeway at 11:20 a.m. and 12:20 p.m. − Bus fare is $1.50. Cash, RTD bus passes, tokens and free ride coupons accepted.
HAIRCUTS FOR MEN, FREE: First Sunday of every month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the DENVER ROOM. Barber Justin brings this free service to WG. Whether you need a touch-up or a full-on haircut, Justin is here to make it happen. A sign-up sheet will
RTD SHOPPING TRIPS: Weekly Friday trips to Target and Walmart at the Town Center at Aurora.
− Pickups at WG at 9:40 a.m. The bus stops at the main entrance on Clinton St., continues around to E. Center Ave., S. Alton Way, and S. Clinton St., and then exits on E. Center Ave. − Bus returns for pickups at Target at 11:30 a.m. and Walmart at 11:45 a.m. − Bus fare is $1.50. Cash, RTD bus passes, tokens and free ride coupons accepted.
be available outside of the Denver Room the day before.
make them easier to hook. Cash, check, and credit cards are accepted.
JEWELRY SALES & REPAIR in CENTERPOINT LOBBY on the second Thursday of the month from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendor can place magnets on necklaces to
MASSAGE: Therapeutic, Swedish and deep tissue massage every Thursday by appointment only in the DENVER ROOM. continued on page 29
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A N N O U N C E M E N T S continued continued from page 28
$60 per hour. Call Zhanna at 720-338-3821 to schedule an appointment. ¡ MOUNTAIN MAN FRUITS AND NUTS: Next visit will be Monday, January 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come and check out
the assortment of nuts, dried fruits, snacks, chocolates and much more!
LOBBY, providing battery replacement and minor repairs.
WATCH REPAIR SERVICES: NO services in January. Services will resume in February on the first Friday of the month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in CENTERPOINT
XFINITY – EDUCATIONAL TABLE: Wednesday, January 10, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. A sales specialist will help you with questions about your account or services. Sign up for a 15-minute slot at the Activities Desk.
HEALTH SCREENINGS & SERVICES ON-SITE EYE EXAMS by MILE HIGH SENIOR EYECARE every third Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the DENVER ROOM. They check for glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and other diseases of the eye. Insurance is accepted except Kaiser and Denver Health Plans. Self-pay $100. Glasses selection will be provided. Reservations are required. Please sign up at the Activities Desk. Email drschuman@mhseye.com if you would like to be seen in your unit.
EAR CLINIC: Bayer's Mobile Ear Clinic is at WG on Mondays, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., in the ALL-PURPOSE ROOM on the 2nd floor in CenterPoint. The clinic provides hearing tests, hearing aid repairs, batteries and wax management. Reservations are required. Please call 720-937-9919. WELLNESS CLINIC WITH VISITING NURSES on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the ASPEN ROOM. Reservations required
at 303-698-6496. Please check in no more than 5 minutes prior to your appointment. The cost for foot care is $55, which includes a foot assessment, sensation screening, toenails trimming, calluses/corns filing, medications review and blood pressure check. Fingernail cuts are also available for $15, and a blood pressure check is $5. Kaiser patients can call 303-698-6496 to see if their plan qualifies them for free foot care before their first visit.
SERVICES & PRODUCTS PRESENTATIONS ¡ MAKING HOME BUYING AFFORDABLE presented by RESIDENT REALTY and C2 FINANCIAL CORPORATION: Friday, January 12, at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the ASPEN ROOM. Learn how to put your home equity to work for you as tax-free cash flow or purchase a home with no monthly payments beyond taxes and insurance. Bring your questions! Light refreshments will be served. FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk. ¡ DO YOU WANT TO SLEEP BETTER? presented by SLEEP BETTER
BREATHE BETTER DENVER: Thursday, January 25, at 1 p.m. in CENTERPOINT EAST. This is an educational presentation for people with sleep disorders, such as snoring, sleep apnea, and CPAP intolerance and who wish to improve their quality of life with a better night’s sleep. FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk. ¡ ELDER LAW & ESTATE PLANNING SEMINAR with CHERYL TOMAN-DELATORRE, ESQ of the TOMAN LAW FIRM LLC: Wednesday, February 7 at 12 p.m. in CENTERPOINT EAST. This
seminar focuses on Elder Law and Estate Planning. Discussions will include estate planning, wills, trusts, living wills and powers of attorney. The class will also look at the probate process and ways to avoid probate. Cheryl Toman-DeLaTorre, Esquire, has been practicing law for 38 years. Her parents lived at Windsor Gardens and she is very familiar with this community. FREE. Please sign up at the Activities Desk.
SUPPORT GROUPS AL-ANON meets every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the DENVER ROOM. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Zoom and in-person meetings are held in the ASPEN ROOM every Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, please call Pat at 303-667-7997. LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP in person on Monday, January 22, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the ALLPURPOSE ROOM. Join Alexia Diaz from
Beyond Vision for this interactive, educational peer group. The Beyond Vision team is knowledgeable in a variety of alternative techniques, adaptive devices and assistive technologies for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. This month’s topic will be 2023 Vision Research Review. Please feel free to bring a sharable snack! WG GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP meets every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the
ALL-PURPOSE ROOM. Sharing our stories of loss is the beginning of healing through grief. Together, we can support and help each other. The group is facilitated by Marily Charles who has run many grief groups and other creative projects. She comes with deep caring and gentleness. Contact Marily at marily60@gmail.com or 720-980-3953 if you have any questions or just need to talk.
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Windsor Writers Theme: MUSIC If Music Be the Food of Love, Sing On, Sing On by Kitty Comstock I love music! Music has played (pardon the pun) a major role in my life. At an early age, I would sing my favorite nursery songs like “Itsy Bitsy Spider” and “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” to my mother’s piano accompaniment. Sundays were often a day for music. After church, while Mom fixed lunch, my dad would turn on the radio. I’d lie on the floor coloring and singing along with Teresa Brewer’s “Put Another Nickel In” and Rosemary Clooney’s “Come On-a My House.” When my father realized I was going to be a music major rather than a metallurgical engineer like him, he bought a Motorola stereo system. Sunday mornings were again filled with music from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir to jazz singer Julie London. An eclectic variety that opened up a broader love of music for my whole family. Music has had a powerful influence on my life. It has served as my therapy to pull me up when I am depressed or to “Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair” when I had broken up with a boyfriend. Rogers and Hammerstein’s musicals were my savior during puberty.
I met my husband in the college choir. He is a tenor, and I am a soprano. He was Officer Krupke in West Side Story to my Maria in a couple of songs. He plays the guitar and banjo, which helped us raise a little money entertaining for faculty parties. When I was carrying twins, and my back was hurting, my husband brought in his guitar to help me relax. All of a sudden, my insides were hopping! I felt little fists beating from top to bottom to the rhythm of the music. I had to ask him to stop because I thought the percussion section would burst right out of me. It took quite a while for things to settle down so I could sleep. Our surviving son loves music and is directing the play All is Calm. It’s a story about German soldiers in their fox holes and American soldiers in theirs on Christmas Eve during World War II. Both groups suddenly dropped their weapons and began singing “Silent Night.” Oh, if that had stopped all fighting forever. Music is not only the food of love; it is an international language. It comforts us in times of sorrow; it smiles with us in times of joy. It brings an aesthetic quality to our lives that is beyond definition. Whatever type of music keeps you going in your life, sing on, sing on.
Theme: THE SEARCH Searching Through My Stuff by Dennis Payton Knight I’ve been meaning to find that extra set of keys. I vaguely recall putting them in a safe place, and it’s so secure I may never find them again. What keeps me from getting on the task right now is the prospect of having to sort through all that other stuff stuffed in safe places. There is some chance those keys are in this drawer here, so let’s peek. It’s where I keep my charging cables, charging pads, chargers for odd power tools and devices, gizmos that plug into the car’s cigarette lighter socket, and extension cords. There are Bic lighters that have likely evaporated all their fluid since I last lit a cigarette in 1978. There are business cards from insurance people and car dealers I intend never to have business with, or are since deceased, and assorted hooks, screws and nails, any one of which may someday be exactly what I need to hang a picture or keep a wall from falling.
paperclips that have out of boredom assembled themselves into chains, and paper clamps to hold the bigger stacks. There are ballpoint pens, gel pens, Sharpies, wooden pencils, Eversharp pencils, sticky note pads, box cutters, torpedo levels, things that check the tire pressure and who knows, maybe a dipstick to check the oil. I see various key rings devoid of keys, including the ones I’m looking for, and there are church keys that have never opened churches and are now obsolete by virtue of pop-top beer cans. What I’ve got here is a trove of valuable doodads and historic doohickeys needing the attention of an archaeologist or a good museum curator. And that’s just on top. It’s possible my missing keys are down there, but, then again, they’ll still be there tomorrow. First, I’d forgotten I even had this nifty hammer, genuine brass, with screwdrivers nested in the handle like Russian dolls. Let’s check it out.
There are spontaneous purchases from the dollar store that I will never use but, what the hey, only a buck. I have loose paperclips,
My Mother’s Good Advice by Marilynn Reeves Some folks have found me to be a bit eccentric. I may even be just a tad neurotic. But if I were to go completely ballistic, I’d probably be searching for something I’ve lost! My mother once gave me some good advice: “Have a place for everything and keep everything in its place.” Well, thanks, Mom. That’s very good advice indeed. But what if the thing you’re searching for simply isn’t there? I’ve already looked in the place it’s supposed to be, and every place I can think of
where it’s not. The thing I’ve been looking for doesn’t seem to be anywhere at all! Oh dear, I think I may have lost it! I may never be able to find it! Whatever shall I do without it … whatever it may be?! Then I remember Mom’s other lesson about lost items: “If you’ve already searched high a low, checked all your pockets, retraced your steps, even looked in some illogical place for it, then just sit My Mother's Good Advice continued on page 31
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Windsor Writers Theme: THE SEARCH continued My Mother's Good Advice continued from page 30 back and relax. Chances are, the thing you’ve been searching for will show up – at an unexpected time, in an unexpected place. You’ve already done everything you know how to do. Now all you can do is wait until that missing thing finally finds you.” I happen to own two pairs of glasses. My regular pair has goldtone frames, with a faux jewel inset near the lenses. I wear these the majority of the time, for things like walking around and driving. My second pair is for close-up work. They have reddish-purple frames in a sort of woven pattern. I wear these while doing computer work and painting. Well, the other morning as I was fixing breakfast, I happened to notice that everything looked kind of fuzzy. I started worrying because my eyes have been going bad lately, and I thought my vision had completely changed from bad to worse, literally
overnight! But when I glanced in the mirror, I realized what I had done. I was wearing my Number Two glasses instead of the Number Ones. I started searching for the right ones – my ‘regular’ glasses, but they weren’t where I usually leave them – on top of my bedroom dresser. I searched high and low, in every room of my apartment, but I simply couldn’t find them. Until I finally stepped into my office and there they were. Right where the Number Twos should have been, I had left my Number Ones. So, I put them on and at last I could see! And I left my computer glasses on my desk, right where they should be. So next time I think I may be going blind, I’ll try to remember to check which glasses I put on.
Theme: MY NEXT CHAPTER Prologue or Epilogue by Sandra Windsor First chapter. Next chapter. Last chapter. So go the chapters of our lives. In writing, we begin with a sentence, build a paragraph, bridge the paragraphs together, bolster with details, boost with tension, broach possibilities to finally brave a new path for our protagonist. In reflecting on my own chapters, twelve transitional moments in my journey stand out where I have stated, “this is a new chapter.” It nearly always followed some life change that I had initiated or was initiated for me by an outside force. After relocating with my husband’s job eight times in ten years, I found myself looking out a new window westward when our last FBI assignment brought us to Colorado. At a life changing moment atop the summit of Loveland pass, I knew I must construct a new chapter with a new purpose. I needed a professional direction. Standing in the blowing February snow, I didn’t know what the process would look like, only that challenges would exist. I moved forward and became that teacher who discovered her passion. The next major chapter is complex. Perhaps it’s the “messy middle” we refer to in writing. I went to graduate school for my master’s degree and decided to pursue a position as a high school administrator. I accepted a position as assistant principal at Grand Junction Junior High in August, and in December my husband was killed in the line of duty. This was the most difficult and most defining transition of my life. Who was I now? I only knew I would
never be the person I had been before the tragedy. Move on, I must, with some curiosity as to what this new beginning would look like. Once again, the people I most needed in my life came forward. I also learned in this time that all the experiences and challenges I had faced in the twenty-six years with my husband were still there. I was merely incorporating those and moving forward in finding my new identity. I didn’t expect to find it so soon, but I felt sure if and when that special person appeared, I would know it. Ray and I worked together in the same school district but in different schools, so we knew the other existed. It turned out that I took his previous position at the high school, so we had a conversation starting point. Each of us had suffered trauma, but that wasn’t our focus. We discovered a missing piece in each other that has filled in perfectly over a 37-year period. Five years ago another chapter needed to begin. Now late in life, we learned that Ray’s service in Vietnam had delivered disabilities. Agent Orange keeps delivering on its promise to destroy. This chapter has called me to challenges I wasn’t prepared for. I am learning as quickly as I can, so we remain comfortable and connected. He is my lifeline, and he has allowed me to become the person I am. So, it’s the same now. Another chapter.
A Great Choice by Pete Clark The older I get, the weirder my life becomes. What will be in the next chapter of this book that has been writing itself for almost eighty-three years? I have no idea. I know things I want to see happen. Whether or not these experiences will work their way to the surface is only partially up to me. I must take into consideration my old buddy, Fate, and not forget that dark entity lurking behind the bright screen of life. The Grim Reaper is always there waiting
in the wing, ready to take me on my next adventure. The Reaper and I have had a strange relationship. He has thrown me back from the brink several times, like I am some mud-eating fish, called a sucker, that no one would want to take home. I can live with that. Actually, I hope he keeps it up. A Great Choice continued on page 32
The Windsor Writers group meets weekly on Mondays at 9 a.m. in the Aspen Room. Join us for the joy of writing and sharing short pieces weekly on a variety of topics that members take turns choosing. No qualifications needed, just creative folks who enjoy writing and sharing ideas and stories.
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CLASSIFIEDS Classified Ad Rate: $6 per 50 characters per line, including punctuation and spacing. Minium of $6 per classified. Call 303-364-7485 for more information. Deadline for submission is the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication. HOME FOR RENT DUAL MASTER 2B/2B, 1200 SF, 1st floor unit at 9300 E. Center Ave (east facing)! Spacious condo with updated kitchen appliances, a/c units and fans in both bedrooms. Central heat. Detached garage (right next to building). 3x3 storage unit (located in building). Laundry units (in building on upper level). Double padded carpet in both bedrooms and living room. First floor access through the lanai room (attached to condo). Available November 1st. Call Shayla Bouknight at 720-527-4618 for a showing and more information. HOMES WANTED WINDSOR GARDENS RENTALS. The demand for rental units in Windsor Gardens is greater than ever! If you are an owner needing professional property management services at reasonable pricing or if you are a potential tenant in search of a rental unit call 303-808-0808 today to discuss opportunities and availability! Jane Doyle, Managing Broker, CharterWest Consulting, Inc.; Equal Housing Opportunity Brokerage. Windsor Gardens resident. WILL BUY YOUR UNIT FAST. No fees, Get a second opinion. WG resident. Schoenecker & Co. 303-898-3963. REAL ESTATE TRANSITION SPECIALISTS and Windsor Gardens Experts, Amy & Scott Grossman-Buy, Sell, Private Tours, $Cash for Properties. Know all your options. See ad on back page of this paper. 303-941-9436. www. tourwindsorgardens.com. I’LL PURCHASE YOUR CONDO! Any condition. Quick close or flexible. WG experience, Colorado Company. 470-306-2624 Chelsea Properties, LLC. ITEMS FOR SALE MOVING, EVERYTHING GOES! Furniture, living room, bedroom, office. Great condition. Paintings, pictures, lamps, kitchen dishes, microwave & more. Call Susan 310-924-1744. 3 WHEEL PRIDE GO-GO Sport $1,000 or best offer 720-496-5098. ITEMS WANTED CASH FOR UNWANTED CARS, trucks, RVs, guns, gold, & property Rueben 720-434-8042. SAVE MONEY & MAKE MONEY! Donate (tax deductible) your seldom used vehicle to help single mothers in need. Hands of The Carpenter (Handsofthecarpenter.org) 720-710-8822. Will pick your vehicle up, fix it up as appropriate, and help a single mother keep her job and drive her family safely. Hands has opened a new facility to serve single mothers in need from East Denver and Aurora. The new location is 10401 E. Idaho Place, just North of the Havana Costco. I NEED TO RENT A GARAGE - 720-883-8192. SERVICES PROFESSIONAL HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES – Eco friendly, dependable, and trustworthy. Flexible availability. Shay 303-562-6368.
NAILS & SKIN CARE BY CATHY I have 35 yrs experience in manicures,pedicures,Waxing, Eyelash/Eyebrow dyes. I am mobile & will come to you. Please call for Appt. 303-549-3854. CERTIFIED NURSE AIDE (CNA) – Personal care, companionship, transportation, hospice, grocery store runs, meal preparation, 24/7 care service & more. 20 years’ experience! Excellent references!! Maria H. (720)232-4371. SQUEAKY CLEAN WITH JENNA LEIGH-Fast, thorough, and reliable. Call for free consultation 720-978-4470. WG RESIDENT WITH 30 YEARS caregiver experience. Very reliable, also run errands, good references. Loretta Wright 720-681-7147. FOR ALL YOUR SEWING & ALTERATION needs, custom made and more. Please call Soledad 303-399-5513 (No texts) Windsor Gardens resident. TRANSPORTATION SERVICES. WG resident can provide transportation to DIA. Call Kathy at 720-480-6486. DO YOU NEED TRANSPORTATION to DIA – dr. appts – personal appts – shopping? Call Katherine 303-725-9353 (WGR) SEWING SERVICES! Alterations/repairs on clothing, home decor, needlework/ quilt finishing. WG resident w/great quality and prices. Call/text Pam at 607-6391274. HANDYMAN DENVER #1 Laminate floors/painting & more. Greg 970-485-5082 WG Resident. CATLOVER’S CAT CARE Yvonne Refs 303-548-6230. ERRAND RUNNER - PROVEN EXPERIENCE as a personal assistant. References upon request. Proactive, detail orientated and organized. As a personal assistant I will run your errands, grocery shop, take you to appointments, and whatever else needs to be done 303-507-9196. LANAI WINDOW CLEANING For Windsor Gardens residents. Thorough cleaning of lanai windows inside & outside. Detailed and Professional. Friendly and Reliable. Please call Bob 720-621-7767. HANDYMAN, PAINTING, MOVING, etc. Experienced in remodeling at WG. WG resident. Let me know if you need any help. Thank you! Kevin 720-984-2043. GOOD CAREGIVER & CNA 10 yrs. exp. Birekti 720-312-8035. FREE HOLIDAY MAKEOVERS with Mary Kay independent Beauty consultant. Dorthea Young 512-750-0967. GOOD CAREGIVER AND CNA 12 yrs.’ exp. Meaza 720-416-9097. PRIVATE CARE RN AVAILABLE RN who lives in the community is looking to provide private duty care within the community. I can be reached at Michael. cadoret461@gmail.com. COMPANIONSHIP & SERVICES: WG resident available for meal prep, errands, and more. Carol 484-686-1351
A Great Choice continued from page 31 The move to Windsor Gardens was one of my best lifetime decisions. I had always said that Windsor Gardens would be the last place I would choose to live, but here I am, happy as a mouse in a silo full of grain. Since coming back into society after Covid-19, my life has blossomed. I have made beaucoup new friends and, sadly, lost some old friends. I am in the Writers Group and work with the drama class when I am able. Ten years ago, if anyone had told me I would sit on a bench to see and play with any dogs that came by, I would have thought the person was
ready for a padded cell. I had sworn I would never take another leadership position. That promise to myself has gone by the wayside. Will this next chapter be filled with fun, joy, excitement, work and progress, or will it be cut short by a swing of the Grim Reaper’s deadly scythe? I will just have to wait to see if this adventure continues or if I will blink out and be sent somewhere to explore a whole new world. The decision will not be mine.
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SERVICE DIRECTORY The Windsor Gardens Association, including its board of directors and employees and the Windsor Life staff, are not responsible or liable for any of the services or products advertised in the Windsor Life publication, nor do we endorse any advertisement, product or service. The association recommends that you thoroughly research any product or service and check references prior to hiring any individual or company. AIR CONDITIONING Air Conditioner Sales & Service Tom Grace 2443 S. University #211 303-755-2111 or tmmytomato@aol.com APPLIANCE REPAIR A to Z Appliance Repair Refrigerators, Stoves, Dishwashers, Disposals. Senior Discount Call Dave 303-371-4229 Snappy Appliance Repair For all your appliance repair needs. Serving Windsor Gardens for 8 yrs Gabe Sande 720-338-7579 ATTORNEYS Kirch, Rounds & Bowman PC Estate Planning/Admin, Real Estate Over 40 yrs combined legal experience www.dwkpc.net 303-671-7726 COMPUTER SERVICES Affordable Computer Repairs, Etc. Computers, laptops, i-Phones, i-Pads Tablets, VCRs, Roku, Errands, Etc. Monica 303-875-5837 In-Home Technology Assistance Need help and the Grandkids are gone? Computers, Cameras, Phones, TVs, Etc. 720-244-4166 Scott or Mike ELECTRICAL SERVICES Cassidy Electrical LLC Licensed & Insured Honest, Reliable, Fair Brian 303-241-9265 Electricity Electrical Solutions LLC Licensed & Insured Electrician Seniors-Veterans Discounts Chris 720-289-7724 FLOORING Asgard Flooring Hardwood, laminate, waterproof vinyl Insured, Windsor Gardens references. 720-461-9233 asgardflooring@hotmail.com Sky Rise Carpet Cleaning LLC A Full Restorative Carpet Cleaning Tile, Grout, Upholstery and Area rugs Adam Hursh 720-251-5194
HAULING Anything Anytime Anywhere Junk removal & Estate Clean out 50% Senior Discount Taddy 303-525-5421 Cut Rate Hauling Providing Trash and Junk Removal Furniture, Appliances, Debris, Etc. Rueben 720-434-8042 Express Hauling Services Appliances, Furniture. Total clean out Seniors/Veterans Discounts applied Vern 720-275-3709 Jenny’s Hauling Junk hauling, extreme deep cleaning Hoarder helper, organizer, and movers Call 720-620-0055 Small World Hauling Moving, Hauling, Packing Commercial, Residential 720-360-7440 www.smallworldmovers.us HEALTHCARE D-Dental, Dr Dragana Strizak 496 S. Dayton St. Denver, CO 80247 303-360-5660
HOME CARE SERVICES continued Love Care Inc Over 20 years’ experience Loving, caring, reliable Call Laurette or Mary 720-933-8683 HOME REPAIR & REMODEL 4TB-LO LLC Tile Installation Tile, Floors/walls/all. Wood Laminates Vinyl Plank, Free Estimate, Insured Call Jeff 720-350-6999 WG References AKAB, LLC Kitchens, Bathrooms, Tile, Flooring Plumbing, Painting, Full remodel Free Estimate Tom 720-662-2547 All Pro Construction Grow your equity with quality const. Complete unit remodels Al 720-569-4195 Emerald Home Repair Basic Home Repairs, Plumbing Electrical, etc. Windsor References Larry Dotterer 720-384-5806 Handyman Services Plumbing, Electrical, Painting, etc. Free estimates, WG resident Call Dan at 303-913-2590
HOME CARE SERVICES
LANAI ENCLOSURES
Affordable Experienced Care Giver Caring for Dementia patients Grocery shopping, light housekeeping Zeina 720-364-8475 or 720-756-9397
All Pro Construction Lanai enclosures, doors & windows Warranty, quality craftmanship Al 720-569-4195
Diamond Care, LLC Personal Care Provider since 2004 Homemaker, Transportation Amy 720-317-7251
Grande Vista, Inc. Enclosed Lanais, Windows & Doors 1550 Larimer St., #454, Denver 80202 Carlos Perez 303-777-4500
Elderlink Home Care, Inc. Quality Companion Care Since 1988 Help Is Just A Phone Call Away 303-734-0641
Wholesale Windows LLC Enclosed lanais, windows, and doors Dependable and efficient Larry Summer 303-887-9960
Flexible and Reliable PC Days or Overnights 25 Years’ Experience Jenny 720-620-0055 Kay Home Care Agency LLC Exceptional care for loved ones Personal In-home, and 24 hr. care Call 720-500-7730
MOVING SERVICES Retirement Home Movers 2 Men $120 per Hr. 3 Men $160 per Hr. Open 7 Days a Week 8am-8pm John 720-975-3966 Small World Movers 21 Yrs. Experience-Licensed & Insured 2-Men & A Truck $120/hr 303-931-6135 www.smallworldmovers@us
Call 303-364-7485 to list your business or ser vice.
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SERVICE DIRECTORY PAINTING Handy Manny Painting Also repair walls, prep, paint Clean-up & organize with perfection 303-521-0063 – website: dancemanny.com
Braun, Dan Home Smart of Cherry Creek Helping buy & sell in WG since 1993 303-883-5881
Serenity Now Home Services LLC Painting, Drywall repair, Clean-up Locally Owned, Owner Operated Bob 720-621-7767
Brokers Guild Realtor Jere DeBacker Concierge Service Beginning to End Windsor Gardens Resident – Love it! 303-570-6243 (cell) jere@jeresppc.com
PLUMBING Gres Plumbing We are licensed, certified & insured. Jesus Martinez - text 720-397-8685 Word of Mouth Plumbing Residential plumbing and repair Same-day service Call us 720-329-0216 Wright, Wayne Master Plumber Service and Repair Kitchen+Bath, Balanced Shower Valves 303-344-2637 REAL ESTATE Barlow, Chad HomeSmart ChadBarlowHomeFinder.com 720-422-1979
REAL ESTATE continued
REAL ESTATE continued
Coldwell Banker, Cheryl Lohuis Realtor & WG Owner. Your time 2 Buy! Have owned 3 homes here & Love it! 303-522-6161 AColoradohome4u.com Grossman, Amy and Scott See our Ad-Back Page of Windsor Life www.tourwindsorgardens.com 303-941-9436 Guzman, Carol , CNE, SRES Your Castle Real Estate, Inc See my tour ad in Windsor Life 303-929-3157 www.carolguzmanhomes.com Home Real Estate, Shirley Shideler Windsor Gardens is My Home Too! 9355 E. Center Ave. #3-A, Denver, CO 303-503-0745 shideler3@gmail.com Ingebritson, Carolyn, SRES, Realtor Your Castle Real Estate Call about tours! 303-594-7696 carolyn@theperfectpairhome.com
Schoenecker & Co. Knowledgeable and Experienced Sell Fast for Top Dollar. WG Resident Mike 303-898-3963 WINDOW CLEANING Alfa Blinds, Blinds by Tomorrow At Alfa Blinds we Make, Install Repair & Clean Blinds by Tomorrow 303-366-9266, 60 S. Havana St, #612 Serenity Now Home Services LLC Window Cleaning to Brighten Your Day Locally Owned, Owner Operated Bob 720-621-7767 WINDOW FASHION Alfa Blinds, Blinds by Tomorrow At Alfa Blinds we Make, Install Repair & Clean Blinds by Tomorrow 303-366-9266, 60 S. Havana St, #612 Master Blinds Services LLC Sale, Repair, Clean 12445 E 39th Ave #306 303-518-4307 WINDOW INSTALLATION & REPAIR Grande Vista, Inc. Windows, Doors & Enclosed Lanais 1550 Larimer St., #454, Denver 80202 Carlos Perez 303-777-4500
Call 303-364-7485 to list your business or ser vice.
Answers for Trivia
Trivia 1. What creature kills more people than any other creature in the world? 2. What percentage of the lawyers in the world are American? 3. What President was the first to deliver an inaugural address over television? 4. What country owned and ran Viet Nam between 1887 and 1954? 5. Originally the "Mason and Dixon's Line" referred to what two states?
Monthly Team Trivia Want more trivia? Join us for team-Trivia. Bring your own team or join a team on the third Friday of each month in CenterPoint from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Door prizes and light refreshments. Everyone is welcome!
5. PA and MD 4. France 3. Harry S. Truman 2. Two-thirds 1. Mosquito
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Windsor Life
The Grossman Team: Harper, Amy, & Scott