WINDSOR
PRESIDENT’S PEN Dear Friends,
As many of you know we have had a number of cars stolen from our underground parking lots, above ground parking spaces and above ground garages. The majority of stolen cars have been from the underground lots. We had two more vehicles stolen this month, in addition to several reports of attempted thefts.
Michele Compton, Board President
The staff and the board of directors have had emails, phone calls and conversations on the growing concern in the community about this. We are deeply concerned about this criminal activity for not only the security of our vehicles, but also for the safety of our neighbors. I would like to share to the best of my ability what we are doing about it and what the next steps will be.
We plan to increase the number of Community Response Officers working overnight shifts. They are varying their surveillance to be as unpredictable as possible. We have added hidden cameras and lights in areas of criminal activity. Community Response has been in contact with the Denver Police Department to get information on thefts in the greater community, which by the way, have also significantly increased. We have been in contact with Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer to request greater police presence and investigation. We are trying to connect the dots on times, make of vehicles and locations. The board has voted to change the code to the keypads for underground garages and to close
PRESIDENT'S PEN continued on page 5
2020 Board Officers & Committees Association Contacts OPERATIONS COMMITTEES
Administration
303-364-7485
Executive Committee
y Michele Compton, President
y Dennis Knight, Vice President
y Mike Lopez, Treasurer
y Jane Doyle, Secretary
Architectural Review
y Roni Reynolds, Chair
y Jane Doyle, Board
y BJ Barnes, Resident
y Carl Bruckman, Resident
y Joel Bulik, Resident
y Cleo Dioletis, Resident
y Sally Holloway, Resident
Auditing
y Dean Deverick, Chair
y Dennis Knight, Board
y Mike Lopez, Board
y Sharon Holsapple, Resident
y Jeanne Lee, Resident
y Marilyn Tyler, Resident
Board Election
y Mike Lopez, Chair
y Dennis Knight, Board
y Ken DeHate, Resident
y Donna Sanford, Resident
Employee Relations/Safety
y Dean Deverick, Chair
y Roni Reynolds, Board
y Debra Adams, Resident
y Ginny Cox, Resident
y Phyllis Davis, Resident
y Jan Sheppard, Resident
y David Clinkinbeard, Employee
y Shane Fair, Employee
y Jacob Pacheco, Employee
Finance
y Mike Lopez, Chair
y Dennis Knight, Board
y Dean Deverick, Board
y Debra Adams, Resident
y Marilyn Tyler, Resident Grievance
y Bobbie Mays, Chair
y Jane Doyle, Board
y Sue Freehling, Resident
y Dixie Holm, Resident
y Anne Price, Resident
y Gary Roll, Resident
y Jim Wright, Resident Insurance
y Bobbie Mays, Chair
y Dean Deverick, Board
y Carol Brooks, Resident
y Barb Ellis, Resident
Long Range Planning / Operations
y Dennis Knight, Chair
y Mike Lopez, Board
y Bobbie Mays, Board
y Dean Holm, Resident
y Sharon Holsapple, Resident
y John Young, Non-resident Owner
y Bill Walsh, Employee
Policy/Governing Docs/Rentals
y Jane Doyle, Chair
y Dennis Knight, Board
y Anne Price, Resident
y Donna Sanford, Resident
y Jan Sheppard, Resident
Underground Garage
y Roni Reynolds, Board
y Bobbie Mays, Board
y Carl Bruckman, Resident
y Barbara Dey, Resident
y Reuel Hunt, Resident
y Jan Sheppard, Resident
y William Laub, Resident
COMMUNITY LIFE COMMITTEES
Building Representative Zone
Committee (BRZC)
Roni Reynolds / Donna Sanford, Co-Chairs
Zone 1: Marilyn Tyler
Zone 2: Barb Penn
Zone 3: Kelli Schuttinga
Zone 4: Mary Carol Ooten
Zone 5: Lisa Davis
Zone 6: Ken DeHate
Zone 7: Jean McCoy
Activities
y Dean Deverick, Chair
y Mike Lopez, Board
y Bobbie Mays, Board
y Kristin Brotherton, Resident
y Barb Ellis, Resident
y Bob Hamblin, Resident
y Daryle Schneider, Resident
Foundation
y Dennis Knight, Chair
y Bobbie Mays, Board
y Cathi Allen, Resident
y Tom Friesen, Resident
y Jim Hill, Resident
y Reuel Hunt, Resident
y Laura Quintano, Resident
y Donna Sanford, Resident
y John Young, Non-resident Owner
Golf
y Jane Doyle, Chair
y Bobbie Mays, Board
y Joan Stringfield, Resident
y Beth Vaden, Resident
y Jim Wright, Resident
y Men’s League Pres.
y Women’s League Pres.
Long Range Planning / Community
Life
y Jane Doyle, Chair
y Roni Reynolds, Board
y Cathi Allen, Resident
y Tom Friesen, Resident
y Jim Hill, Resident
y Monica McKenzie, Resident
y Anne Price, Resident
y Laura Quintano, Resident
Public Relations/Marketing
y Dennis Knight, Chair
y Dean Deverick, Board
y Jane Doyle, Board
y Mark Bonsell, Resident
y Nancy Delhay, Resident
y Jeanne Lee, Resident
y Alan Schneider, Resident
y Kathy Young, Resident Restaurant
y Mike Lopez, Chair
y Roni Reynolds, Board
y Lanny Dick, Resident
y Sue Freehling, Resident
y Charles McDonald, Resident
y Susan Schmidt, Resident
y Joan Stringfield, Resident
Office Hours 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
General Manager: Rebecca Zazueta, email: rzazueta@wgamail.com
Community Life Manager: Cari Ervin, email: cervin@wgamail.com
Business Manager: Tammy Tafoya, email: ttafoya@wgamail.com
Community Administrator: Patricia Frawley, email: pfrawley@wgamail.com
Director of Community Response: Chris Scovil, email: cscovil@wgamail.com
Covenant Enforcement Admin. Asst.: Tina Patnode, email: tpatnode@wgamail.com
Front Office Manager: Liz Nickel, email: lnickel@wgamail.com
Receptionists: Katie Monasmith, email: kmonasmith@wgamail.com Susan Hunt (part-time), email: shunt@wgamail.com
Office Project Coordinator: Melissa Masek, email: mmasek@wgamail.com
Accounting Manager: Debra Ford, email: dford@wgamail.com
Administrative Assistant: Karen Arellano, email: karellano@wgamail.com
Community Response
303-364-4924
communityresponse@wgamail.com
Interim Chief: Eddie Strock, email: estrock@wgamail.com
Activities
303-364-9141
Activities Director: Ellie Wilkins, email: ewilkins@wgamail.com
Assistant Activities Director: Renee Jennings, email: rjennings@wgamail.com
Golf Shop & Course
303-366-3133
Golf Pro: Doug Mallon, email: dmallon@wgamail.com
Facilities Maintenance
Manager: Bill Walsh, email: bwalsh@wgamail.com
Grounds Maintenance
Supervisor: Dana Cusack, email: dana@wgamail.com
Board Members board@wgamail.com
President: Michele Compton
Vice Pres.: Dennis Knight
Treasurer: Mike Lopez
Secretary: Jane Doyle
Asst. Treasurer: Bobbie Mays
Asst. Secretary Dean Deverick
Director-at-Large: Roni Reynolds
Building Representative Zone Committee (BRZC) Email: brzc@wgamail.com
Association Offices Closed
Thanksgiving Thursday, November 26, 2020
Friday, November 27, 2020
Christmas Eve Thursday, December 24, 2020
Christmas Friday, December 25, 2020
New Year’s Day Friday, January 1, 2021
Cover artwork: istockphoto.com
Community Meetings
Meetings listed in chronological order.
Public Relations Committee, Thursday, October 8, at 1:30 p.m. Join Zoom meeting online:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89592777810?pwd=cW9ncC93MGd2N ys4MjZCb1MxMmpGdz09
OR
By
Audit Committee, Friday, October 9, at 9 a.m. Meeting in the administration office using safe distance protocols.
Finance Committee, Friday, October 9, at 10:30 a.m.
Join Zoom meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86743371144?pwd=ZWJZb2pMSXdLV GkvTEN5Uy95NFB3QT09 OR
In Remembrance
If you wish 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.
Your Turn: Write a Letter
Letters submitted to Windsor Life are published at the discretion of the Windsor Gardens Board of Directors and the editors. Letters are subject to editing, including the length and grammar and are limited to 300 words in most cases. Letters containing obvious factual inaccuracies, unattributed facts and quotes or libelous statements will not be printed. All letters must include the writer’s name, address and phone number for verification purposes. Letters submitted by mail or dropped off at the association office also need a signature. The writer’s name will be included with those letters that are published.
E-mail to: WindsorLife@wgamail.com
Mail to: Windsor Life, 595 S. Clinton St., Denver, CO 80247
Voting couldn’t be easier…
Restaurant Committee, Tuesday, October 13, at 3 p.m.
Join Zoom meeting online:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81337364074?pwd=NVRjdWVlb29md2 9oays5cTEyM0wvdz09
Thank you to our WG board, WG staff and to Denver Elections for working together for our WG located drop box for completed ballots! The Windsor Gardens’ Denver Elections drop box is located just east of the main auditorium appropriately at the base of the flagpole. It is easily identified with the Denver Elections logo. Ballots are collected daily from all Colorado elections drop boxes by elections division officials and enter the verification and counting process within a short time after collection. Any ballot placed in the drop box by 7 p.m. on Election Day, November 3, meets the deadline for receipt. If you can’t carry your ballot to the drop box, a friend or neighbor can help you. No person can deposit more than 10 ballots total in any election cycle – an important election integrity safeguard. Our drop box is one of about 40 drop boxes for the 155 square miles of our city, so no one needs to travel far to find one.
Meeting ID: 813 3736 4074
Password: 779247
MEETINGS continued on page 4
Windsor Life: The News of Windsor Gardens
Editor: Lori Colvin WindsorLife@wgamail.com
Advertising: Karen Arellano, 303-364-7485, karellano@wgamail.com
Submissions due the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication. 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 thoroughly 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
The Windsor Gardens Association's Declaration (with amendments), bylaws and policies are available on the association's website at www.windsorgardensdenver.org.
Colorado is among the five states with universal vote by mail, by far the easiest way to vote. “Universal’ means that every registered voter is mailed a ballot at the address on record about three weeks before Election Day. Ballots cannot be forwarded, so it is important to be sure that your address information is current. You can register or check your registration information on the Secretary of State website, www.sos.state.co.us, or by calling Denver Elections at 303653-9668 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. While online voter registration closes October 26, you can register and vote in person through Election Day with a passport or other official ID. If your ballot went to an old address, or for any other problem, call Denver Elections for help.
Try to make some of your decisions in advance as this ballot is expected to be quite long – with our future being shaped in crucial ways by the outcomes. Receiving your ballot by mail means that you have time to sit down, examine the ballot, carefully mark your choices, and even do further research on any office or issue. Sign your ballot on the outside of the envelope and seal it carefully. Every signature is compared to the signatures on record to catch attempts to use another person’s ballot. Colorado is recognized as the ‘gold standard’ for voting ease and security in the US, just one of the many ways life is golden here in the Silver State!
LETTERS continued on page 5
MEETINGS continued from page 3
BRZC, Thursday, October 15, at 9:30 a.m.
Join Zoom meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87557451271?pwd=anBrYW5jVTBMW XRGd2xTSVZ4WGkwUT09 OR
Insurance, Thursday, October 15, at 1 p.m.
Join Zoom meeting online:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81814708559?pwd=NEcrSklCK2YwUll HMlBkTXFTWVVydz09 OR
Long Range Planning Operations, Friday, October 16, at 2 p.m. Join Zoom meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82315001704?pwd=YkNzMlV0VUg3Ul ZzK0hIYVBqclI0dz09
OR
By
Meeting ID: 823 1500 1704
Password: 139960
Architectural Review, Tuesday, October 20, at 9:30 a.m. Join Zoom meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88685307469?pwd=eHAwdEovcE5KZll rWmtqNHhCNjRVQT09
OR
By
Long Range Planning Community Life, Friday, Oct. 16, 9:30 a.m.
Join Zoom meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83623079111?pwd=ZmlRUVZOaExTY XRKbXBhOUlQa1FhUT09 OR
Foundation, Friday, October 16, 10:30 a.m. Join Zoom meeting online:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82113970795?pwd=aThwd2NKcVc1QT FQd05NQ2xhL0FsZz09
Meeting ID: 886 8530 7469
Password: 149982
Activities, Tuesday, October 20, at 1 p.m. Join Zoom meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83692473772?pwd=bGdtUXR1SFIxbk5 uY2NCNjQ5WWNKUT09 OR By
Meeting ID: 821 1397 0795
Password: 831377
Board of Directors, Friday, October 23, at 9:30 a.m. Join Zoom meeting online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81022878237?pwd=ZGllcklxTXd0WDU 3ZlB0THlVYlNZZz09
OR By
Meeting ID: 810 2287 8237
Password: 507177
If it is your first time joining a Zoom meeting, go online to watch a short video to help you get started:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9isp3qPeQ0E#action=share
PRESIDENT'S PEN continued from page 1
the Clinton Street entrance to underground garage 24 to limit access and increase surveillance ability. We are considering a process for changing the programming for garage door openers and will do that if the research deems it would be effective. We are also researching the possibility of changing access to the underground garages to an ID card similar to the activities pass. Some of these changes may cause inconveniences for a time. But we will continue to work hard on this problem until it is solved.
It may seem at times that little is getting done to solve problems and move the community in a positive direction. Please know that there
is a balance needed between moving quickly and moving carefully to be effective.
On a different note, we are in negotiations with a lessee for the restaurant. The restaurant committee and the board are very excited about this proprietor, who is also very excited about opening a restaurant here. We have all found other places to go since our restaurant has been closed and since COVID, but I hope you will give them a chance. [See page 11 for more on this.]
Michele ComptonLETTERS continued from page 3
Windsor Gardens has a legacy of voting at some of the highest turnout levels in Denver and in the State of Colorado! Thank you to all the residents of Windsor Gardens for preserving this important legacy.
Mike McGuire
The Proposed Restaurant
When we moved here 21 years ago, we understand that our fees would help pay for the golf course, swimming pools, common areas, etc., and that was okay. At that time we had a place to wash our cars and the garages were swept twice a year. That has changed. There was a restaurant here that I did not use – I don’t eat out. I think said restaurant went broke. Now there is talk to start another restaurant, and I think you want to assess all of us to help keep it going. A restaurant is a business like a clothing store, grocery store, etc. They either make it or they don’t. Please, please, please don’t ask me to pay extra money for something I won’t use. Does anyone else agree with me? If so, speak up. I think we are going to have many issues with the economy in the coming months.
Jean Hatcliff
Response to “The Proposed Restaurant”
Ms. Hatcliff,
Other residents might share your same concerns, so I wanted to offer a response. In short: we agree with you. The association's hope and goal is to have a successful, self-sufficient restaurant in our community. The plan is NOT to assess the community to cover any financial shortcomings of a restaurant. My guess is that you might be referring to the survey sent last August 2019 to gain insight on the community's desires for restaurant service. A question at the end of the survey read, "Would you be willing to pay $5 extra per
managing the restaurant on our own instead of finding a lessee. The board of directors and the restaurant committee did not move forward with that concept due to the inevitable financial burden it would put on the association's members. So, in summary, we want a restaurant that can fund itself.
Cari Ervin, WG Community Life Manager
Cats on the Loose
Why are cats allowed to roam free outside in our community, but dogs must be on a leash?
We have a cat in our area that follows their owner on a walk. This would be cute except it causes our dogs, who are on a leash as required, to go out into the street to avoid a confrontation. The cat is on the sidewalk, hissing and growling at our dogs. We are not supposed to walk in the street but are forced to because of the cat’s owner. We have one person taking away the rights of the majority.
Why is it that some people think that they are above what the rest of the community has to follow when it comes to regulations about our pets? They must believe that they are “above the law,” which is a very selfish and inconsiderate act.
Of course, it is not the cat’s fault to have an owner who has total disregard for what is right, and I am really surprised that the coyotes haven’t had a “feast” because this cat is out at night when they are roaming the area.
When you live in a community such as ours, we have to not only think of ourselves, but how our actions can affect others.
Debra Adams
Response to “Cats on the Loose”
Per the association’s pet policy, all pets, including cats, dogs, lizards, etc., are to be kept on a non-retractable leash, no longer than 6 feet in length, and attended by a responsible person when not in private apartments. Any pet that cannot be leashed must be caged when in common areas.
To protect your cats, dogs, and lizards, please keep them on a leash and supervised at all times when they are outside of your unit. An open lanai is considered part of your unit, but a pet should be restrained and supervised for the safety of your pet, you, and other residents.
Pet owners should be concerned about coyotes, especially along the canal area where I have seen cats running loose. Coyotes prey on domestic and feral cats and small dogs. When they find a cat or dog in their hunting area, they will continue to come back to that area until the food source is eliminated.
If you see a pet off-leash in the common areas, please call Denver Animal Control at 311 or WG Community Response to investigate.
Chris Scovil, Director of Community ResponseCOVID-19 Community Notices and Updates
Confirmed Resident COVID-19 Cases
There have been no additional cases reported in the month of September 2020, and there is no indication of any community transmission at this time. The association continues to monitor for patterns or outbreaks within buildings, especially on the same floor
Notifying the Association When You have a Positive COVID-19 Test Result
The association relies on residents to notify our office when you receive a positive COVID-19 test result. The administrative office manages the COVID-19 statistics for our community and reports the information to the health department. Only in extreme cases, such as a case that resulted in death, would the health department contact the association.
We ask for your assistance in helping to keep our information as accurate as possible. This will allow us to provide important updates to the health department and allow us to monitor for outbreaks and patterns within buildings and within the community. During regular business hours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., please call our main number, 303-364-7485, to report a positive test result. If you need to report your positive test result after hours or on the weekend, please contact Community Response at 303-364-4924.
Community Events Canceled
Status of Residents with Confirmed COVID-19
1
14
Reminders for Residents in their Buildings
Residents should limit visiting neighbors in their units when possible.
Residents should avoid lingering in hallways or exercising in hallways when possible.
Residents should limit elevator and laundry room use to one person or same household members at a time.
Mask Requirement
The mandatory mask-wearing requirement for Colorado went into effect in July and was extended by executive order on September 12, 2020, for 30 days to October 12, 2020.
Masks are Required:
When you leave your unit. Masks must be worn in building common areas, which include, but are not limited to hallways, elevators, interior stairwells, laundry rooms, and lobbies.
When visiting the administrative office and when interacting with staff, including when staff enters your unit.
When visiting other indoor common areas such as the auditorium, locker rooms, fitness center and when attending community activities Some activities may have specific rules regarding masks. Please ask a staff member if you need guidance on when to wear a mask.
Masks are not Required:
At home inside of your unit,
In the car, or
When it inhibits a person’s health.*
*Masks are not required if a mask inhibits a person’s health. Residents and visitors who do not wear masks are required to exercise proper physical distancing and should not go into areas where other residents and visitors are in close proximity.
Due to the COVID-19 restrictions and the risks involved with having large group gatherings in the community, the association has made the difficult decision to cancel large events for the remainder of the calendar year including the craft fair and the celebration of lights event. The association is hopeful that buildings will be able to proceed with outdoor holiday light displays as usual. Further discussion regarding holiday lighting will take place in October and additional information will be published in the November Windsor Life.
Election by Acclamation of the Candidates for the 2021 Board of Directors
The four board of directors positions opening in 2021 will be filled by the four people who currently hold those positions and who have agreed to continue serving in that capacity: Michele Compton, Dean Deverick, Jane Doyle and Bobbie Mays. They will be elected by acclamation at the board meeting on October 23, 2020. The
knowledge base needed to be an effective board member is broad; we are fortunate to have these experienced people willing to continue to serve. Their goals for the upcoming year will be published in the November issue of Windsor Life.
Notes from the General Manager
From Rebecca Zazueta, General Manager
FHA Recertification
The FHA recertification package was approved on September 23, 2020, and will be in effect for the next 3 years, through September 23, 2023. This means that buyers and residents may proceed with FHA loans and reverse mortgages immediately.
Medical Clinic Proposal
The Daily Apple Clinic proposal is still under consideration. There is no update this month. Would-be clinic operators and WG residents Paul Reynolds and Monica Schonteich are still in the process of determining if the City of Denver zoning department will allow a medical clinic to operate at Windsor Gardens.
Maintenance
Hallway smoke detectors are being replaced. Buildings completed this month: 65, 63, 61, 59
Exterior painting of Buildings 82, 32, 49, and 41 is complete. The crew is finishing Building 51 and working on Building 3. The next building will be Building 7. Soffit repairs and bat mitigation work will begin on Building 44.
The restaurant kitchen floor was cleaned and painted with epoxy. The kitchen equipment will be reinstalled.
Boiler replacements are complete in Buildings 28, 37, 43, 66, 40 and 20. Building 34 will be started next.
The new garage door for underground garage 26, Dayton Street entrance, has been replaced.
The underground garage project Phases 2A and 3A is in progress. The goal is to complete deck coating for 2A and 3A prior to significant snowfall. The project is still on schedule but will be dependent on fall weather conditions. Once the work above ground is completed, the crew will go into the garage and start discovery and tendon repairs for 3A. This work is not weather dependent and can continue through the winter.
The roof replacement project (hail damage insurance claim) is completed. Planning for the roof replacement for Building 13 is in progress now.
The hallway re-decorating project continues with carpet installations in Buildings 49 and 59 completed. Replacement of the stair carpeting in Buildings 21 and 23 is complete. The crew is working in Building 44 now. Building 63 will be started after 44 is complete. Building 58 will be scheduled after 63.
Grounds
The grounds department continues maintenance on the flower beds and is removing flowers that have faded. The shrub pruning is nearly caught up. Tree pruning and removal will continue. Approximately, 1,900 shrubs and perennials were planted in September. The golf course greens were aerated and the turf areas that died in July and August were also aerated and seeded. Algae were removed from the lake. Plans to treat Ash trees for Emerald Ash Borer are in progress.
Board in Motion
The Windsor Gardens Board of Directors approved the following motions at their September 25, 2020, board meeting:
Finance Committee motions to transfer $348,764.08 to the capital reserve account and $204,200.42 to the tax reserve account.
Finance Committee motion to transfer $136,419.19 to the capital reserve account representing the September insurance loan payment from the operating account.
Long Range Planning Operations Committee motion to accept the proposal from SBSA to update the reserve study at a cost of $6,000.
Restaurant Committee motion to recommend that the board go forward with Brian and Nancy Svenby, the operators of Nonna’s
Chicago Bistro, proposal to operate the restaurant facilities and to enter into lease negotiations.
Underground Garage Sub-Committee motion to approve the $102,042.90 contract change order for the above deck repairs for phase 3A as submitted by Western Waterproofing Company.
Motion to approve the proposed amendment to the Lanai Policy concerning flower boxes.
The board also approved the following motion via electronic vote on September 4, 2020:
Motion to approve Windsor Gardens as a polling location, allowing in-person voting at Windsor Gardens during the election period of October 26, 2020, through November 3, 2020.
Secure Your Garages: Increased Burglary Activity in Community Garages
From Chris Scovil, Director of Community Response
We have had a disturbing amount of burglary within the garages of our community, from car theft, garage storage cabinets broken into, to stolen bicycles.
Surface Lot Garages
During patrols, Community Response officers continue to find surface lot garage doors unsecured, and some doors completely open with nobody there. An open or unsecured garage door allows easy access to everyone's personal property within that shared garage bank. It is a crime of opportunity that thieves look for to get in and out quickly.
Please take the time to make sure your garage door shuts properly and is secured. Per association policy, the owner of an open or unsecured garage gets three warning reminders from Community Response, and the fourth and subsequent violations carry fines issued to the owner's account. If you see a garage door open or find one that is not secured, please call Community Response at 303-364-4924 to investigate.
Underground Garage Parking
When entering and exiting the underground garages, please stop and make sure the overhead door closes behind you before you drive off. Do not let other vehicles follow you into the garage. If a vehicle or a person enters the garage behind you or you see suspicious activity, please call Community Response to investigate immediately.
Suspects in Vehicle Theft Open Fire on Community Response Officer
In the early morning hours of September 12, 2020, a Community Response officer was investigating a vehicle theft in progress behind 350 S. Clinton Street (Building 68) when the suspects opened fire on the officer. Only one round was shot. The bullet struck the officer’s patrol vehicle, but not the officer. The officer was not injured and did not return fire. All dashcam and bodycam footage from the incident were submitted to the Denver Police Department for further investigation. The suspect vehicle is described as a gold or tan, early 2000s Chevrolet Tahoe with temporary license plates. The vehicle was last seen fleeing east bound between Windsor Gardens and Burger King. The main suspect is described as a skinny white male in his upper 20s, approximately 5 feet 11 inches to 6 feet tall, wearing a backpack. This suspect has been seen on the property before, walking with a heavy-set, white female in her late 20s, approximately 5 feet 4 inches to 5 feet 6 inches tall. The other suspect is a Hispanic male in his upper 20s, height unknown.
Residents are advised not to approach suspicious parties. If you see the vehicle described in this incident or any suspicious activity in and around the parking lots, please call 911 and then call Community Response. If you have any additional information about the September 12 incident or about the suspects involved, please contact Community Response at communityresponse@wgamail.com or 303-364-4924.
Community Response will remain on heightened alert and continue to monitor parking lots and suspicious activity in the community. Resident and officer safety remain our top priority.
Community Response Assists, Checks & Other Activities, August 2020
COP Shop @ WG
Dear Cop Shop:
The Cop Shop will be back on property in October! Weather permitting, they will be outdoors on the sidewalk between the auditorium and CenterPoint on October 9 and October 23, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Cop Shop is operated by volunteers who work with the Denver Police Department to assist with citizen complaints, accident reports and various other activities that would normally require a trip to the district station.
Dear Cop Shop
What happens to cars that are stolen? Are they found?
Want to Know
Dear Want to Know:
Now that is an excellent question! There are quite a few possibilities that do not involve kids going on a joy ride. Stolen cars are often used in the commission of a crime and then are abandoned. Sometimes they are broken down for parts. Sometimes they are found in other states or are sent to other countries and never found. In Denver, when stolen vehicles are found, they wind up in the impound lot either on hold for evidence in a crime or waiting for the owner to retrieve them.
This year, property crimes are up more than 20% in the Windsor Gardens area. This includes stolen vehicles and items stolen from vehicle break-ins.
It is critical that you are vigilant in caring for your property. A large number of these crimes occur because car doors are left unlocked, personal items are left in plain view, or car windows are left open. And be aware of people in the area around you when using your car. The non-emergency police number is 720-913-2000, option 0, if things become heated or violent. Leetsdale Cop Shop is available to you for other issues at 303-329-0500 (call or text) or e-mail us at leetsdalecopshop@hotmail.com.
The Cop Shop
Introducing the WG Community Life Manager
Windsor Gardens is more than just a homeowners association that manages the property and amenities. We’re a small town. A community.
Windsor Gardens is heading in a new direction, and we’re excited about it! The board of directors has seen a need for an increased focus on community life in addition to focusing on day-to-day operations. The daily operations of a neighborhood our size are always more time intensive (think: boilers, building repairs, leaks, insurance, etc.) Focusing on our community’s health and well-being could never be a priority. Until now.
My new position as Community Life Manager was created by the board in an effort to restructure the management of the community into two categories, Community Life and Operations. This allows the General Manager to focus on what she does best and on what is most pressing: managing the operations and NEEDS of our very large association! And in my new role I will be able to focus on the community development aspects, our health, wellbeing and what we WANT as a community.
To dive in a bit deeper, as the Community Life Manager I will oversee the community center, including the Activities Department, golf course, and restaurant lessee relationship. Previously, these three entities, while all part of the community center, have operated as islands under the same roof. We want to promote overall cohesion between them to better bring about success in all areas. Additionally, I will oversee special projects related to overall community development and the Windsor Life newspaper as well as our relationship and engagement with the greater Denver area. I will serve as the management advisor for the following committees: Activities, Foundation, Golf, Long Range Planning-Community Life, Public Relations, and Restaurant. Two of these are new committees (Foundation and Long Range Planning-Community Life) created to focus on areas of financial and long-term community development. I will also sit in on
ALL TIME CLOCK REPAIR
6405 E. Colfax (Just west of Monaco) 303-333-8778
Ä Clock Repair is the only thing we do (No Sales).
Ä Same location since 1974.
Ä Dependable service on most types of clocks.
Ä Specializing in Antique Clocks.
Ä Free Estimates in Shop - Fair Prices.
Ä Service center for Seth Thomas, Howard Miller and Sligh.
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Hours: Tuesday thru Friday: 10 to 5 Saturday: 10 to 2 Closed Sunday & Monday
the Building Representative Committee and Building Representative Zone Committee meetings, as these focus on the buildings and the people who make up our community. Additionally, I will take on other tasks and projects that arise, such as the association’s 60th anniversary project, for example.
The ideas of our board, residents and committee members are fresh and inventive. Their openness to think outside of the box for the betterment of our residents is exciting. I look forward to supporting these endeavors as we focus on the health and well-being of our people and expand the sense of belonging to not just an HOA but to a thriving and active community.
About Cari
Cari Ervin is a Colorado native, but spent most of her formative years growing up in Las Vegas, Nevada. She returned to Colorado and ultimately claimed it as her home upon attending and graduating from the University of Northern Colorado.
Though she has a colorful resume of various work experiences (some time spent as a florist we’d like to note) it was in the nonprofit world where she gained the business, leadership and programming experience that benefits her role at Windsor Gardens. Cari served as the WG Activities Director from May 2018 through April 2020 and claims she never loved a job so much. She has enjoyed the dynamic schedule and fast-paced nature of the job, creating new program ideas, and the wonderful people (staff and residents).
Cari is a joyful and approachable individual, taking on tasks with optimism and enthusiasm. Beyond her work at Windsor Gardens, Cari spends her free time smothering her 4 month old son, Oliver, with kisses. She enjoys thrift store shopping, crafting, watching Wheel of Fortune with her husband, and re-living the joy and drama of Downton Abbey again and again.
Association Enters Restaurant Lease Negotiations
From Rebecca Zazueta, General ManagerA proposal has been received from the operators of Nonna’s Chicago Bistro to operate the Windsor Gardens restaurant facilities. Two restaurant committee meetings were held in September to discuss the proposal, and at their September 25, 2020, meeting the board approved the committee’s recommendations to enter into lease negotiations. Minutes for the meetings can be found on the association’s website.
Brian and Nancy Svenby, the operators of Nonna’s, intend to maintain their existing restaurant at Leetsdale and Monaco, which specializes in Italian cuisine. The Windsor Gardens restaurant will be a new concept with a varied menu that will appeal to residents and guests and will have many options available for takeout meals.
Experienced at running a restaurant in compliance with all the COVID-19 restrictions, the Svenbys are excited about the future at Windsor Gardens. They currently work with several musicians who play regularly at Nonna’s and look forward to bringing live music to Windsor Gardens too. They are both experienced bartenders and wish to provide a welcoming, comfortable, fun and safe atmosphere for residents to get together and enjoy a cocktail. And, although banquets are not a possibility right now, they are prepared and excited to provide these services when COVID-19 restrictions are eased. If lease negotiations are successful, the Svenbys hope to have the restaurant open for the holidays.
Homeowners Insurance at WG: What You Need to Know
• The association insures the basic structure of the buildings and the originally installed fixtures on the interior. Any upgrades on the interior, items such as cabinets and countertops, flooring, appliances etc., are the responsibility of the current owner even if upgraded by a prior owner.
• If living in the unit, you should purchase an HO6 policy.
• If renting the unit out, you should purchase a landlord’s policy.
• Your HO6 policy should provide dwelling/property coverage for any upgrades since original construction, coverage for your personal property, liability coverage within the unit, coverage for loss of use if you have to leave your unit while it is being repaired and loss assessment coverage.
• The association has a 2% wind/hail deductible which could result in each owner being assessed up to $3,000. Loss assessment coverage to handle this deductible should be minimal on an annual basis.
• The association also has a $25,000 property deductible which could be assessed to an individual owner (s).
• Check with your personal insurance agent to see how best to cover these potential deductibles. Feel free to have your insurance agent call Windsor Gardens’ agent, Pat Wilderotter, at 720-212-2065 if they have any questions.
Cold Weather Safety Tips: Avoiding Slip and Fall Situations
Plan ahead based on the weather. If you don't need to go out, reschedule.
Change your habits based on the weather, how you are feeling, etc.
Take the best path for weather conditions, not necessarily your normal path. Avoid north facing sidewalks. In Colorado we have the thaw, freeze cycle which creates ice.
Wear gloves. Walking with your hands in your pockets affects your balance.
Wear appropriate footwear.
Windsor Gardens was built starting in 1962. With age, the ground can compact and slopes can change. The safest route may be a new pathway.
Lighten your load; carrying too many packages can impair your vision to see the path in front of you.
Are you on any medication? Sedatives, antidepressants, etc. can affect your balance. Be aware and walk more cautiously.
New glasses? They can affect your depth perception.
At night, bring a flashlight.
Use handrails when available.
Use door handles when entering or exiting a vehicle.
Walk with a friend. If you fall, you want someone to be able to assist you and call for help if necessary.
Clean your shoes when you go inside. Snow and ice can freeze on the soles of your shoes and once inside can create puddles for you to slip on.
Call Community Response if you see an area that you feel is dangerous or if you need help.
From Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer: Denver Voting Resources and the Ballot Process
From Councilwoman Amanda Sawyer, District 5
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” ~Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Hello, Neighbors. Thank you for all you continue to do to stay positive and productive in this unprecedented time. Now that schools have begun in this new normal and the weather has begun to cool, you may be turning your thoughts, as I am, to this year’s General Election on Tuesday, November 3. With many key city and state issues on the ballot, the Denver ballot is going to be three full pages again. Voting may feel overwhelming with everything else going on in our lives, but please know that there are resources to help make the process as smooth as possible.
First and most importantly, to check that your voter registration is up to date or to change your address if you recently moved, changed your name or are receiving your mail at another location, go online to GoVoteColorado.gov.
As has been the case in recent years, the ballot is long, so it may be helpful to do a little research about the candidates and issues well before November 3. An interactive sample ballot will be available soon on the Denver Clerk and Recorder website: denvergov.org/content/ denvergov/en/denver-elections-divison/voter-election-information. Blue Books will also be mailed to voters to help you understand the pros and cons of each issue. Check your mailboxes in mid-October for that resource.
While the national conversation now includes questions about the safety of mail-in voting, Colorado has utilized the process since 2013 when the law went into effect requiring that all Colorado voters receive a ballot by mail. Of course, you can still vote in-person if you prefer.
Paul López, Denver County Clerk and Recorder states, “Please be reassured that my office is working hard to make sure our elections are safe, secure and accessible to all eligible voters. There is no evidence that mail ballots are more subject to fraud than other methods of voting, and there is virtually no chance that a foreign government could manipulate an election outcome by printing and returning fake mail-in ballots. The fact is that mail-in ballots are a solution that address many of the threats to our democracy, from the pandemic to foreign interference.”
To help understand how the Clerk’s process ensures safety and accuracy, here is a summary of the ballot life cycle. For more detailed information, visit denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/denverelections-divison/voter-election-information/ballot-life-cycle.
• The Denver Elections Division uses various software to input critical election information, including offices and candidates up for election, office boundaries, and eligible electors. The ballot's
design and content – which races appear and the order in which they appear – is dictated by federal, state and local laws. In the City and County of Denver, all ballots must be produced in both English and Spanish.
• For enhanced clarity and simplicity, the Denver Elections Division uses best practices established at the national level by experts in ballot readability. Proper ballot design also involves accurate data entry and proofing of the content.
• Prior to and after every election, the equipment used to record, tabulate and report votes must be tested according to state laws and regulations.
• BallotTRACE (Ballot Tracking, Reporting, and Communications Engine) allows Denver voters to track mail ballots from the printer to the mail facility and back to the elections office. Voters can choose to receive notifications by email or text message about the status of their ballot. Sign up for BallotTRACE here: denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/denver-elections-divison/ voter-election-information.
• Ballots are delivered to voters through the United States Postal Service (USPS) between 22 and 18 days before Election Day and are automatically sent to all voters designated by Colorado election law as "active" voters. Visit GoVoteColorado.gov to make sure your address is current. The deadline to make changes to a voter record and have a ballot delivered by mail is eight days before Election Day. After that, a voter may visit any Voter Service and Polling Center (see below) to vote in person or obtain a mail ballot.
• Voted ballots may be returned through USPS or any other delivery service a voter might choose. To return a voted ballot by mail, affix the correct amount of postage. However, the Denver Elections Division will not refuse ballots that do not have the proper postage affixed. Once the post office receives a voted ballot, it is scanned into the USPS mail tracking system and delivered in bulk to the Denver Elections Division on a daily basis.
• Alternatively, a voter may return a ballot by dropping it off in person or having another person deliver it for them to any ballot drop-off location or Voter Service and Polling Center (VSPC). The Denver Elections Division has 37 24-hour ballot drop-off boxes available throughout the city. Drive-up ballot drop-offs are also provided outside all VSPCs. Colorado law restricts any one person from dropping off more than 10 ballots in an election. Find voting site locations at DenverVotes.org/voterinfo. Don’t forget about the new ballot box installed this year at Windsor Gardens!
COUNCILWOMAN
continued on page 13
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Denver General Election
Windsor Gardens is a Denver Voter Service and Polling Center
Windsor Gardens is a Voter Service and Polling Center (VSPC Phase 2) for the Denver Elections Division. We will have in-person voting in the WG auditorium, a curbside ballot pickup service, a drive-up ballot dropoff location, and the 24-hour ballot drop box already in place near the flagpole east of the auditorium.
In-Person Polling Schedule
In-person polling will happen the following days and times in the WG auditorium:
October 26 through October 30: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
October 31: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
November 1: Closed.
November 2: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
November 3: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Voting during the COVID-19 Pandemic Precautions that Denver Elections will be Taking
Curbside Ballot Pick-Up Service. Beginning Tuesday, October 27, voters can schedule a time to pick up a ballot curbside at certain voter service and polling centers. Voters can visit denvervotes.org/voterinfo or call our office at 720-913-8683, option 8, to learn more and submit a request to pick up a ballot.
PPE Must Be Worn at All Times. All election judges must wear provided disposable masks at all times while working. Denver Elections will supply enough masks for each judge to receive a new mask each day they are assigned to work. Any judges handling ballots, including at drive-through drop off and pick-up locations, will also be supplied with disposable gloves to wear when assisting voters. Election judges also must take their temperature upon arriving for their shift each day.
Physical Distancing at All Times. At Denver voter service and polling centers, all election judges, voters and observers must observe 6 feet physical distancing at all times inside and outside the VSPCs. Plexiglass shields will also be set up in front of all registration judge stations to protect voters and election judges. Disinfecting Between Each Voter. Election judges will disinfect all surfaces, secrecy sleeves, pens and clipboards voters touch, including voting booths and voting tablets, between each use. Hand sanitizer will be widely available at all voter service and polling centers.
USPS sends out pre-election postcards with incorrect information for voting by mail. Last month the US Postal Service sent out a postcard with incorrect information as it pertains to voting in Colorado and several other states. The postcard provides a checklist for voting by mail. One item stated, "Request your mail-in ballot (often called "Absentee" ballot) at least 15 days before Election Day." This is incorrect for Colorado. In Colorado, a ballot is mailed out to every registered voter.
COUNCILWOMAN SAWYER continued from page 12
• All voted ballots must be in the possession of the Denver Elections Division by 7 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
• Voter Service and Polling Centers (VSPCs) are open 8 to 15 days prior to Election Day depending on the type of election. Services include:
9 Replacement ballots
9 In-person paper and in-person accessible machine voting
9 Ability to make an address change
9 Ability to register to vote
9 Return a voted mail ballot
• Ballots are verified by bipartisan teams. Signatures are collected from voter registration forms and the Department of Motor Vehicles. Voters will be notified via BallotTRACE if they need to cure their signature. Ballot cure deadline is November 12.
• In District 5, we have two ballot drop-off locations, one of which is in Windsor Gardens, by the auditorium under the flagpole. The second ballot drop box is at the Montclair Recreation Center in
Denver General Election
KEY DATES
October 9
• Ballots begin mailing to active voters.
• Drop boxes open across the city.
October 12
• 22-day Colorado residency deadline.
October 26
• Last day to update your registration to receive a ballot by mail.
• Last day to return your ballot by mail; return only to drop boxes after this date.
• Windsor Gardens auditorium VSPC (Voter Service & Polling Center) opens. Drive-through ballot drop-off and curbside ballot pick-up available.
November 2
• All vote centers open.
November 3
• Last day to vote—ballots must be received by 7 p.m. at a drop off location.
Lowry at 729 Ulster Way. To see an interactive map of all ballot drop-off locations, visit denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/ denver-elections-divison/voter-election-information.
The Clerk and Recorder’s office encourages everyone to return ballots as soon as you've completed it and remember to sign your ballot! If you vote in person, please know that there may be significant delays due to increased sanitation procedures and physical distancing. Remember your face mask.
District 5 residents are among the most civically involved and vocal residents in the entire state of Colorado. Thank you for making your voices heard – to our office and through your vote. We would truly appreciate you taking a few minutes to complete our second annual resident survey at https://bit.ly/D5survey2020. Our staff looks forward to continuing to serve you and carrying the voices of Windsor Gardens into city government.
As always, do not ever hesitate to reach out to our office if there is anything we can do to assist you. Email us at DenverCouncil5@ denvergov.org or call us at 720-337-5555. We wish you and your loved-ones health and safety now and always.
Let’s Talk Bats
From Bill Walsh, Facilities Manager
Over the past few years we have been having all sorts of problems with bats here at Windsor Gardens. Yes, bats, not the kind that hit baseballs or open pinatas. The kind that fly around at night and eat mosquitoes and other insects. Scientists claim that a bat can consume 1200 mosquitoes in an hour and as many as 7,000 mosquitoes per night. Experts say that bats actually prefer beetles, and they do in fact eat our number one insect enemy, the Japanese beetle. As the problems with bats have escalated, we have gone full force to try and keep them from roosting on our buildings. Our paint department is currently sealing up every crack or vent opening where the bats can find harborage. This program will carry on year-round until all the buildings have been sealed up.
Maintenance Matters
bats and the little pellets that they can leave behind. In researching association policy concerning lanai enclosures we find that the enclosure belongs to the owner, and the owner has full responsibility in maintaining the enclosure. However, if the owner can remove a screen or window in the enclosure for proper access to the area in question, the maintenance crew will remove the bats and clean up after them. This is not an invitation to call us for frequent cleaning. We would expect the owner to do their best to keep the bats from living in the lanai or the enclosure.
Unfortunately the screens in several lanais are almost impossible to remove. In most cases the screen is too close to the lanai block to make room for proper removal. And some lanai enclosures have windows that can not be removed at all; the entire enclosure would need to be removed by the resident to get to the bat roosting areas.
One of the favorite places bats like to roost is in the area between the lanai blocks and the lanai enclosure. Some residents don’t care if they are there and actually like them; on the other hand, some residents are terrified of them and get “creeped out” by even the thought of their presence.
Over the past few weeks I have had several residents request that the maintenance department come and remove the windows and screens that are part of their lanai enclosure and then remove the
How to Prevent Bats from Roosting in Your Lanai
What can our residents do to help prevent bats from roosting? If you see a bat roosting on your lanai, try tapping the window until they wake up and fly away. If this process is repeated for several days in a row, the bats will not return because they know it’s not a comfortable place to harbor. You can also spray WD40 on the screen in the area you see them. It acts as a repellent; they do not like the smell and will not hang (ha ha) around with the odor that WD-40 creates.
Large Item Pickup Day: October 7
Our Fall Large Item Pickup Day is Wednesday, October 7. Just in time for you to get ready for the fall garage sweeping by the maintenance crews at the end of October or early November. Signs will go up in your parking lot two days prior to the sweeping. We will also be getting the word out with a Pilera notification.
Start sorting and organizing the items in your units, lanais and garages, so that you will be ready to put disposable items out for pickup. Please set disposable items in front of your garage by 7 a.m. the morning of October 7. Those of you with underground garages need to set your items behind your vehicle or a column.
Items that the crew cannot pick up: large appliances, TVs, electronics, mattresses and hazardous materials, including oil, combustible liquids, aerosol products, pesticides, paint, mineral spirits, varnishes, solvents, batteries, radioactive or flammable material, etc.
Donation Pickup for your Unwanted Items
Getting organized and need someone to pick up your unwanted items? Call these local charities and schedule a free donation pick up today.
ARC Colorado: 303-238-5263
Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver: 303-421-5300
Vietnam Veterans of America: 800-775-8387
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal
You can properly dispose of and recycle toxic products from your home with Denver’s Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program. For more information go to:
https://www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/trash-andrecycling/hazardous-waste/household-hazardous-waste-collection. html
DO NOT Put Plastic Bags or Trash in the Recycling Dumpsters!!
Windsor Gardens is under notice again from Waste Management for the contamination and overfilling of our recycling dumpsters. Costs to the association could run into the $20,000 range for the year if we can’t get residents to stop putting plastic bags and trash in the recycling dumpsters.
If you collect your recyclables in a plastic bag, empty the plastic bag into the recycling dumpster and then take the plastic bag back home with you and use it again. Please do not put the plastic bag into the recycling!
Target and various grocery stores have bins at the front of the stores where you can dispose of plastic bags properly.
Down to Earth
From Dana Cusack, Grounds Maintenance Supervisor
What a Way to End a Heat Wave!
August was hot with 26 days over 90 degrees and many of those days set records or came darn close. And then came Labor Day weekend … one I will remember for some time! Saturday the 5th topped out at 101 degrees making it the latest triple digit day on record. Monday the 7th, Labor Day, was the 73rd day this season over 90 degrees, tying the record. Then overnight the heat wave was ended. A cold front came through and spread cold and snow over most of our state. Westcliff saw 14 inches of snow while we saw an inch or so here in the Gardens. There was a 58-degree difference from Monday to Tuesday causing a freeze warning for much of the state as well. Wednesday morning set another record for September with the lowest low at 31 degrees. Big temperature swings are not uncommon generally in Colorado, but they are in September. It has been twenty years since we have seen measurable September snowfall in Colorado. Last year in October the flowers were taken out by a snowstorm, and I thought that was early. The storm in September just seemed unfair. While we really needed the moisture that came with it, and it vastly improved the air quality from the fires burning around our state, it was tough to lose tree branches and flowers. Even with those losses, it was actually a beautiful sight Wednesday morning with snow covering all the landscape. I hope you were able to get out and experience that rugged beauty even if it was a bit early.
From Doug Mallon, Golf Pro
For two months in a row we have just crushed the numbers with our greens fees. The weekends are staying busy for us, so be sure to book in advance to secure your tee time. The course is open year round, weather pending. For the course to be open it must be 45 degrees or warmer, with no snow on the greens.
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Phoebe’s Rules
Natural objects
True or false: A leaf sticking to the golf ball is a loose impediment.
A. True
B. False
Answer on page 30.
Windsor Wellness
The Big C
From Paul Reynolds, FNP-C and Monica Schonteich, FNP-CA diagnosis of cancer is a scary thing, isn’t it? Some of us may have a personal experience with cancer, or we may know someone with the condition. Either way, cancer news is shocking.
In a broad perspective, cancer death is not as common as we may think. Every year approximately only 0.2% of the population dies from all types of cancer. The advances in cancer research and the development of less invasive and more sophisticated cancer treatments have improved survival rates. Although for those with the diagnosis, it remains a devastating disease. According to the National Institute of Health, in 2020 an estimated 1,800,000 new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the United States and approximately 606,500 will die from the disease (~34%).
What is cancer?
Cancer can develop in any type of cell. Each cell in our body has a lifespan, just like us, they are born (or produced) to accomplish a specific task for a specific time, and then they are programmed to die. The lifespan of a cell is a highly sophisticated, highly regulated and fascinating process. Occasionally, a cell does not die, and it starts to reproduce without control, losing the ability to do the specific task it was destined to do. This is cancer. These altered cells cluster, forming masses, affecting also the normal healthy cells and their function. Cancerous cells can travel to different parts of the body creating a systemic (all over your body) mess, this is known as metastasis. A cancer that has metastasized has a poorer prognosis.
Can we prevent cancer?
Yes, we can! According to the Prevent Cancer Foundation, 50% of cancer cases and deaths are preventable with current knowledge. The key elements in cancer prevention are early detection (screening tests) and having a strong immune system.
Current recommendations for screening tests for the most common cancers
Breast cancer screening: According to the American Cancer Society, for women at average risk for breast cancer, between the ages 40
and 44, it is optional to get a mammogram. For women ages 45 to 54 it is recommended they get mammograms every year. Women 55 and older can switch to a mammogram every other year or can choose to continue yearly mammograms.
Prostate cancer screening: There is no standard screening test currently.
Lung cancer screening: The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends annual screening for lung cancer with a low-dose scanner for folks ages 55 and up who have smoked at least one pack per day for 20 years or more and currently smoke.
Colon cancer screening: The USPSTF recommends regular screening, beginning at age 50. There are several tests you can choose from: stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy).
7 steps to a strong immune system
Our immune system can detect and kill cancerous cells if we keep it strong. Here are seven steps to keep your immune system strong:
1. Quit smoking. Smoking promotes inflammation and chronic inflammation can lead to cancer. Studies suggest that secondhand smoking can also cause cancer.
2. Exercise daily. Exercise daily for at least 30 minutes. Studies demonstrate that exercise boosts our immune system.
3. Eat more color Colorful vegetables and fruits are packed with antioxidants, which may fight cancer.
4. Maintain a healthy weight Some cancer tumors feed on our fatty deposits.
5. Reduce stress. Doing activities that help you feel happy and relaxed can boost your immune system.
6. Sleep. Sleep at least 8 hours every night. Remember, when we sleep, we heal.
7. Learn about your family history. Some cancers can have a genetic component, although only a few.
Following screening test recommendations, learning about your family health history and living a healthy life will help keep you away from the scary C. Be well and take good care,
Paul and Monica
WG Artist Profile
Bobbie Mays
Bobbie Mays grew up in a small town in Texas. Drawing has always been a favorite pastime, starting in grade school, and the creation of paper dolls and comic books were a major part of her childhood.
Attending the art classes at Windsor Gardens has reacquainted Bobbie with her fondness for art. Being introduced to charcoal a few years ago by a WG drawing instructor, Jeanne Hougen, has led to an amazing connection between paper and coal for her.
Bobbie enjoys nature, calls the outdoors home, and travels from coast to coast to experience the beauty and differences in vegetation and landscapes.
Title of her artwork: "Flags at Emerald Green". Bldg
Welcome to Our New Neighbors
"Friendship is a mirror to presence and a testament to forgiveness."
~ David WhyteWE’RE HERE FOR YOU
We’re thinking of you and your loved ones as we navigate these unpredictable times together. Rest assured, our commitment to helping you thrive remains unwavering, and no question is too big or too small.
You can always reach us, and we look forward to providing guidance and support via phone, text, email, and virtual chats – whatever platform works best for you. We’re here to help, ready and equipped with a list of several additional resources for seniors. Whether you or a family member are in urgent need or just need to talk, we’re here for you.
If it matters to you – it matters to us. We’re a people company, and YOU are our people.
Please do not hesitate to reach out anytime. Call 303-214-4017 today.
WE’RE HERE FOR YOU
We’re thinking of you and your loved ones as we navigate these unpredictable times together. Rest assured, our commitment to helping you thrive remains unwavering, and no question is too big or too small.
You can always reach us, and we look forward to providing guidance and support via phone, text, email, and virtual chats – whatever platform works best for you. We’re here to help, ready and equipped with a list of several additional resources for seniors. Whether you or a family member are in urgent need or just need to talk, we’re here for you.
If it matters to you – it matters to us. We’re a people company, and YOU are our people.
Please do not hesitate to reach out anytime. Call 303-696-0622 today.
Up Close
John Baldwin and his wife Judy moved to Windsor Gardens in late December. One of the factors in their decision to move to this community was the beautiful spring and summer landscaping.
"The beauty of the area made it possible for me to indulge in one of my passions, which is the close-up/macro photography of plants and flowers," said John. "Over the summer I took over a thousand pictures of a wide range of the varieties that were planted here in the spring."
To the Rescue
On a Sunday night in late August, Hillary Hutson of Building 48 and her neighbor Carol L. came to the rescue of an injured great horned owl.
Carol saw a large bird on the ground near the benches in the park area on the west side of their building on S. Alton. She had been watching for a while and realized it couldn't fly. Hillary and Carol decided to get the owl some help, and after making several calls they found Serena Rocksund, District Wildlife Manager for the Colorado Division of Wildlife.
“She was so calm and capable,” said Hillary. “She just scooped up this beautiful, large great horned owl, wrapped it up and soothed it just like she did this all the time.”
Serena took the owl to Birds of Prey, a rescue group in Broomfield, CO, where they said it had a head injury, probably from flying into one of the windows at Windsor Gardens. No broken wings fortunately. The rescue will take care of it until it's ready to return to the wild.
The district wildlife manager said that it’s best to not touch any animal that is injured as they can bite and can have rabies. The Colorado Division of Wildlife is a good place to call for help, 303-291-7227. Also, Birds of Prey Foundation, 303460-0674.
Thank you, Carol, Hillary and Serena for looking out for our owl neighbor.
Ornamentals
Fall Classes
Select fall classes are being hosted via Zoom and video tutorials. Our in-person and virtual fitness classes will continue. For added classes and information please visit our classes’ webpage on the WG website:
https://www.windsorgardensdenver.org/Calendar/15778~7320/Activities-Groups-Clubs
Links and log-in information are available at the classes’ webpage and will be posted on the WG Facebook page.
CHORUS with Linda (Zoom class)
30-minute sectionals every Wednesday between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Sopranos
10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Altos
11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tenors
11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Basses
With vocal instructor Linda Combellick we will be working on music for a spring concert, and we'll also enjoy some holiday music for fun. Linda is devoted to introducing people to the joys of music and to enhancing the skills of those who are already involved in music and theater. Holding multiple degrees in Theater Performance, Music, and Education, she has taught many singers and thespians over the years.
Zoom link:
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/8324710122?pwd=UzgvRnlkZWg3Wjl
JNGprRHlHWENHdz09
Meeting ID: 832 471 0122
Passcode: Music
Because everyone has a different internet speed and setup, there can be varying delays between what Linda is doing on her side and what you are doing on yours. Therefore, during the learning portion, all you will hear is Linda doing her part with you and leading you through any run-through of previously learned portions.
DRAMA with LuAnn (Zoom class)
Tuesdays, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tired of talking to yourself? Need a creative outlet? Then Drama Class is right for you. Stay safe in your home while connecting with other actors online. We will work on characters, emotions and subtext through monologues and script readings. The class meets online weekly. Zoom in and enjoy some fun with acting. Class will be hosted by LuAnn Buckstein, an actor who has worked at many Colorado theaters and has been teaching drama at Windsor Gardens for the last four years.
Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84567485139?pwd=ZTgzbCtVM0xLa TNIK001SFFPaW1Wdz09
Meeting ID: 845 6748 5139
Passcode: 708095
Craft Fair & Celebration of Lights Events Canceled
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions for large gatherings at this time, we are sad to announce that our annual November Craft Fair and December Celebration of Lights award ceremony event will both be canceled. We are hopeful to enjoy these and many other events in 2021.
DRAWING with Jeanne (Zoom class)
Mondays, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., beginning October 5. Join instructor Jeanne Hougen for her drawing class via Zoom every Monday at 12 p.m. If you have always longed to draw but have not taken a class, don’t miss your opportunity. Beginners welcome!
Jeanne loves nothing better than teaching others to paint and to draw. She is a professional artist who loves what she does and is always excited to pass this on to others. She has been painting professionally and teaching for over 10 years.
Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81048183907?pwd=SmpIRUNjZUxYc 1hXYmI3NkU4RnNTQT09
Meeting ID: 810 4818 3907
Passcode:622771
GLASS ART with Joan (Video tutorials)
Weekly videos: Every Monday by 2 p.m. a new tutorial will be added. Video tutorials with teacher Joan Paschall are available now online. Watch Joan from the comfort of your own home at a time that is convenient for you. She will be returning to the basics to offer reminders to our avid glass artists, while providing any new enthusiasts with a way to begin at home! Joan will cover safety, tools and supplies, glass cutting, pattern making and much more!
To access the link to the glass art classes, please visit the classes webpage on the WG website:
https://www.windsorgardensdenver.org/Calendar/15778~7320/ Activities-Groups-Clubs
During an artistic career spanning over 30 years, Joan has taught for a national arts and crafts store, demonstrated products for manufacturers, and sailed the world as an arts instructor for several cruise lines. She has worked for a professional stained glass studio where she was teaching and designing commissions, won several awards and exhibits her work regularly. Her mission is to help inspire us all to be a little more creative.
Summer Food Truck Series
October
Indoor Fitness Classes at WG
Yoga, Tai Chi, Line Dance, Pilates, Weights and Zumba classes meet in the AUDITORIUM and require reservations. All class participants are required to check-in by the auditorium kitchen door and sign a one-time waiver before participating. Masks are required to be worn at all times in exercise classes.
Water aerobics is held in the INDOOR POOL and also requires reservations. Check-in will be located at the exterior door to the indoor pool, and all participants are required to sign a one-time waiver before participating. The association’s pool noodles, dumbbells, floats and other shared pool equipment will not be available for use. Masks must be worn when checking in, entering the locker room, or moving within any indoor space. Residents may take off their mask while swimming in the pool or using the therapy pool but are required to put on a mask as soon as they are out of the water.
Reservation System
Follow the steps below to make your class reservation.
1. Go online to: www.windsorgardensreservations.com
2. Click the “booking online” tab.
3. Click “click here to make reservations”.
4. You will be directed to a new page that will request you to either create an account or sign in. Note: This system is unrelated to the
MONDAY
Yoga 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Water Aerobics 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Check-in at 9:45 am to ensure enough time to shower prior to start of class.
Line Dance 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Pilates 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Please note there is a 30-minute break between Pilates and Weights for sanitizing purposes.
Weights 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Water Aerobics 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Check-in at 5:15 pm to ensure enough time to shower prior to start of class.
main Windsor Gardens website, and you will need to create a new account if you are visiting the reservation site for the first time.
5. Once you have signed in, you can make reservations by going to the “reservations and booking” tab.
You will be able to see what classes are available to book and how many slots are left. Choose the class you want to attend, and click “sign up now”. It will prompt you to make a single reservation for yourself or for someone else.
To see the reservations you have made:
Navigate back to the “my info” tab and then click on the “my schedule tab”. You will be able to see what classes/amenities you have signed up for, and if you look to the far right of each reservation, you will see an option to cancel your own reservations. If have any questions or would prefer to make a reservation over the phone, you may contact Ellie Wilkins at ewilkins@wgamail.com or 720-862-1533 or Renee Jennings at rjennings@wgamail.com or 720862-1534.
Two Reservations Per Week Per Activity: Please note that in order to best accommodate our community, each resident is limited to two reservations a week per activity. (A week is defined as Sunday through Saturday.)
TUESDAY
Tai Chi 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
WEDNESDAY
Yoga 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Water Aerobics 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Check-in at 9:45 am to ensure enough time to shower prior to start of class.
Weights 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Please note there is a 30-minute break between Weights and Pilates for sanitizing purposes.
Pilates 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
THURSDAY
Tai Chi 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
FRIDAY
Yoga (with Elena) 9:00 am – 10:00 am
Water Aerobics 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Check-in at 9:45 am to ensure enough time to shower prior to start of class.
Zumba 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Virtual WG Fitness Classes: Join Us Live Online!
Low Impact Aerobics with Kathy Zimmer
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m.
Chair Exercise with Kathy Zimmer
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.
Be ready to go at the start time! If you join after the class is in progress, Kathy will have to wait for a break in the songs to let you in.
To join these Zoom class sessions go online to: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/6740748933?pwd=NVc2dC9NOHd oSjFLTFBpNEhRTUJydz09
Meeting ID: 674 074 8933 Password: WG chair
Same site address, meeting ID and password for both classes, both days.
Towel & Bedding Drive for VOA
We will be collecting new and gently used towels and twin bedding for Volunteers of America on October 22 and 23. Donations can be dropped off to a box outside of the entrance to CenterPoint and will be collected by 4:30 p.m. each day
Indoor Pool Open Swim Schedule
Four people allowed per open swim session. Reservations are required and may be made online at www.windsorgardensreservations.com or by calling or emailing Ellie Wilkins at ewilkins@wgamail.com or 720862-1533 or Renee Jennings at rjennings@wgamail.com or 720-8621534.
Check-in will be located at the exterior door to the indoor pool, and all participants are required to sign a one-time waiver before participating. Walk-ups during an open swim session will be allowed on a first-come, first-served basis in the case of no-shows or available openings. A no-
Open Swim Sessions: One-hour reservation time slots available between 7:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. daily, with interval breaks for cleaning, disinfecting, and water aerobics class (when applicable). The indoor pool is open every day except Thursdays when the pool is closed for routine maintenance.
show is defined as: failing to check-in within 15 minutes of the start of the reservation time.
The association’s pool noodles, dumbbells, floats and other shared pool equipment will not be available for use.
Masks must be worn when checking in, entering the locker room, or moving within any indoor space. Residents may take off their mask while swimming in the pool or using the therapy pool but are required to put on a mask as soon as they are out of the water.
Water Aerobic Classes: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday with an added Monday evening time of 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 pm. Classes are limited to 6 residents per session.
The pool may also be closed by Windsor Gardens staff at any time due to any unfavorable or unsafe conditions.
Active Minds® Live: Connect Online or Call-In
THE HISTORY OF MINSTREL SONGS
Thursday, October 15, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. “Oh, Susanna!,” “Dixie,” “Camptown Races”…these are all familiar tunes that many schoolchildren learned as folk songs, not knowing where they came from or how they were originally performed. Yet their history is mired in issues of race, representation and cultural appropriation. In this class we’ll examine the history of minstrelsy in American popular music. We’ll discuss the music's origins in the 1830s and its development via racial stereotypes including performance by white entertainers in blackface in so-called “minstrel shows”. We will delve into the lasting and complicated legacy of this form of popular music.
Two easy ways to join the program:
1. To connect via the Internet, go to: www.zoom.com.
Click “Join a meeting”
Enter this Meeting ID: 913 0920 0733
Click “Join”
Bookmobile Schedule
Click OK if it asks to launch Zoom or something similar Enter meeting password: 063626
Follow the prompts to join the meeting
2. To connect through your phone, dial any one of these numbers:
1-253-215-8782
1-346-248-7799
1-408-638-0968
1-669-900-6833
1-720-707-2699
1-929-205-6099
If a number is busy, just try the next one.
When prompted enter the Meeting ID: 852 4358 8667 then the # sign.
Press # again when it asks for participant number. Enter the password: 657066# and then you will be connected to the meeting.
Active Minds suggests that people start connecting to the meeting around 15 minutes before the start of the program, so that anybody who needs assistance can get it before the program starts.
Bookmobile at WG and Curated Book Bundles
The DPL bookmobile service will be returning to WG on Fridays, October 9 and October 23, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Call 720-865-1112 with any questions.
Library Bundle Request
Miss browsing the shelves for books, movies and music? Tell DPL librarians what you crave, and they will gather up to 10 items per library card. As always, we value your privacy and will keep your answers strictly confidential.
Use the following address to go to the library bundle request form: https://www.denverlibrary. org/curbside-bundle
Select “Bookmobile” and then Windsor Gardens in the drop down menu of locations on the form, and
the bookmobile staff will have your curated bundle ready the next time they visit WG.
Request a Personalized Reading List
Use DPL's Personalized Reading List form if you’d prefer a customized list of recommended titles just for you. Their Advisory Librarians will email a list of titles for you to place on hold. Use the below address to go to the personalized reading list form.
https://www.denverlibrary.org/reads
Complete as much or as little of the form as you like, but the more information you provide, the better the recommendations they can give you. If you haven't received your list within a week, check your spam folder as responses are sometimes directed there.
Clubs & Groups
ROOM RESERVATIONS FOR COMMUNITY CENTER FACILITIES
To protect the health and safety of our community and staff, new and temporary precautions and regulations for room reservations are in effect through January 8, 2021. You can get a copy of these regulations in the Fitness Center Lobby or on the WG website under the "Activities, Groups & Clubs" page. Activity and social group gatherings should be kept to a minimum. Alternatives to in-person meetings should be considered before proceeding with group reservations.
If a group or building decide that a meeting or gathering is necessary, the outdoor gazebo, auditorium and CenterPoint East will be available for reservations, but approval is required from the activities department. Please contact Ellie or Renee with questions or to request a reservation.
DEMOCRATIC CLUB. We are still not meeting in person. We urge you to stay in touch with the activities of Colorado House District 6, and that you keep up with State Representative Steve Woodrow and Colorado State Senator Chris Hansen. We are planning a Zoom meeting on October 20 at 7 p.m. Please watch your emails or call Donna Fisher, 720-324-8410, for instructions, if you have not received information on how to participate.
We have been in touch with you about how you can help our candidates win in November. News at Windsor is that our ballot drop box located in the parking lot east of the auditorium is secure for the election. In the 2018 primary 2,000 ballots were dropped in the box. We thank the Denver Elections Division for this convenience.
If you have any questions, please contact anyone on our board for information: Donna Fisher, Mona Knight, or Helen White. Meanwhile we welcome new members who can e-mail us @ homebody88@ comcast.net or call 402-490-8596.
REPUBLICAN CLUB. Paid election judges and non-paid poll watchers are needed. We are training these positions now. Bless all
you for being patient because of the limited conditions. Correction to email some of you received: Precinct PCPs for 644 is Ann and Sheldon, for 645 Kate and Ginny and for 646 Don. Anyone needing their information call Kate at 720-278-6670 (new number).
OPTIMIST CLUB. First Responders Optimist Membership
Incentive: To honor and recognize the valiant and heroic service that first responders provide to our communities during this pandemic, Optimist International is proud to offer an incentive for our local clubs to recruit into our membership these public heroes.
$30 annual membership fee to any first responder that joins an Optimist Club by December 31, 2020. First responders would include any police, fire, medical, EMTs, 911 operators or other civic service providers (active and retired).
Installation of New Officers and Board: New officers are President Carol Brooks, Secretary Alice Barron, Treasurer Joan Stringfield, President Elect Bob Hamblin and Vice President Joe Hayashi. Board Members: Gary Roll, Nancy Spencer, Ruth Napier, Bill Freud and Barbara Carignan.
Faith Groups & Events @ WG
WINDSOR GARDENS CHURCH. Sunday Worship Virtual Services. WG Church is offering worship services via Zoom, which allows multiple ways to gain access: computer, tablet, smartphone, etc. However, you can listen in with no more than a regular phone. Inspirational music is provided by Daniel Palm at 10 a.m. with call to worship at 10:30 a.m.
For those on our e-mail list we will be sending invitations with a direct link to the service. Or go online to Zoom.us and then click on “Join a Meeting”. Enter the following when prompted.
Meeting ID is 745 223 1154
Passcode is 3q64v9
Or join us by phone by calling:
is 3q64v9
Windsor Gardens Church also has a group page on Facebook. To find it, go into Groups from your Facebook home page, under Groups search for Windsor Gardens Church. The weekly worship service will be uploaded there.
Cop Shop is Back at WG
Cop Shop will be here on October 9 and 23 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. outside on the sidewalk between the Auditorium and CenterPoint. Check out their "Dear Cop Shop" column on page 9 of this issue.
Windsor Gardens Farmers Market
Last days of the season will be October 9 and 10, weather permitting.
Fruit Shak will be at Windsor Gardens every Friday and Saturday in the auditorium parking lot from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. or until they sell out. Various fruits, vegetables, breads and jams will be for sale. And Palisade peaches!
Cash and credit cards accepted, sorry no checks please.
