the arvada report : dec 2009 - jan 2010
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2009 Citizen SurveyResults Are In!
The final report from the 2009Arvada Citizen Survey have been com-piled and are available on the City’sweb site at www.arvada.org.
New City Council Sworn In November 9T
hree Councilmembers took the oath of
office on Monday, November 9 follow-
ing the November 3 election. Don
Allard, former District 1 Councilmember,
defeated incumbent Aaron Azari for the At-
Large seat; Shelley Cook defeated Robert
Fifer for the District 3 seat vacated by term-
limited Lorraine Anderson; Rachel Zenzinger
defeated Gus Spano and Robert Wolf for the
District 1 seat vacated by Don Allard.
See official election results on page 2
Critical Beltway VoteApproaching
At the December 16 meetingof the Denver Regional Council ofGovernments (DRCOG), the Boardof Directors will hold a publichearing on whether to include theJefferson Parkway—the last signif-icant piece of the metropolitanbeltway—on the fiscally con-strained Metro Vision RegionalTransportation Plan. Make yourvoices heard! The Board will voteon the issue at their January 20,2010 meeting. See page 3 formore information.
Prescription Drug Discount Program Now AvailableIn cooperation with the National League of Cities, the City of Arvada is now a
participant in a Prescription Drug Discount Program which can help those withouthealth insurance, or whose insurance does not cover the cost of prescriptions, toreceive up to a 20% discount on the retail cost of prescription drugs. See page 23for more information.
Board and CommissionApplications are Due
January 15See pages 6-7 for more informa-
tion and application form.
Arvada PlacesSecond inNation as TopDigital City
The most technologically
advanced cities in America
have been named by
e.Republic’s Center for Digital
Government and DigitalCommunities magazine, and for the
seventh time the City of Arvada has
placed in the Top Ten Digital Cities
in the population category of
75,000 – 124,999. In fact, this year
Arvada rose to second place in the
nation behind only Santa Monica,
California.
continued on page 2
Left to right: Don Allard, At-Large Councilmember; Bob Dyer, District 4 Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem; Rachel Zenzinger, District 1 Councilmember; Bob Frie, Mayor; Shelley Cook, District 3 Councilmember;
Mark McGoff, District 2 Councilmember; and Marc Williams, At-Large Councilmember.
Mayor Bob Frie
303-420-1234 (w)BFrie@arvada.org
Mayor Pro TemCouncilmember
District FourBob Dyer
303-456-4646 (h)303-423-8080 (w)BDyer@arvada.org
CouncilmemberAt-Large
Don Allard303-420-6559(h)
DAllard@arvada.org
CouncilmemberDistrict ThreeShelley Cook
720-935-9224 (c)SCook@arvada.org
cooksj@attglobal.net
CouncilmemberDistrict Two
Mark McGoff303-423-5258 (h)
720-898-7000ext. 2196 (w)MMcGoff@arvada.org
Councilmember At-Large
Marc Williams303-940-7593(h)303-424-4486(w)
MWilliams@arvada.org
CouncilmemberDistrict One
Rachel Zenzinger303-748-0770 (c)
RZenzinger@arvada.org
The Arvada Report is a newsletter published by the Arvada City Manager’s Office, 720-898-7500, City of Arvada, 8101 Ralston Road, Arvada, Colorado 80002. It is distributed to all residences and businesses in the City. The City of Arvada holds the ownership rights and copyrights
in the design and articles contained in The Arvada Report. Articles may only be reproduced with the express permission of the City of Arvada. Graphic Design: Steve Milke. Photography and other graphic assitance: KATV Channel 8.
2
A Top Digital Citycontinued from page 1
The Digital Cities Survey examines
how cities use technology to create a
seamless environment between local
government and constituents.
As part of its entry submission, City
staff highlighted a number of key proj-
ects and technologies that distinguish
Arvada from other organizations, and
also published its strategic technology
plan. Arvada has embraced social media
and become a leader in this area, inte-
grating with You Tube and Flickr to
deliver video and pictures on all City
web sites and engaging citizens through
the use of tools such as Twitter and
Facebook. Check out all of the social
media tools in one place at
http://arvada.org/find-us-online.
The City also offers access to infor-
mation around the clock with its award-
winning Ask Arvada citizen response
management system.
The top ten cities in the 75,000 –
124,999 category are (in order of rank-
ing): City of Santa Monica, CA; City of
Arvada, CO; City of Roanoke, VA; City
of Richardson, TX and City of West
Palm Beach, FL (tie); City of Ann Arbor,
MI and City of Independence, MO (tie);
City of Lee’s Summit, MO and City of
Pueblo, CO (tie); City of Westminster,
CO; City of Lawrence, KS and City of
Ogden, Utah (tie); City of Boulder, CO;
and Village of Schaumburg, IL.
The survey is open to all U.S. cities
with a population of 30,000 or more.
Respondent cities are classified into
four size-based categories.
The Center for Digital Government
is a national research and advisory insti-
tute on information technology policies
and best practices in state and local gov-
ernment.
Arvada has been named a top
Digital City in 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006,
2007, 2008, and 2009. The 2009 award
was presented at the National League of
Cities 2009 Congress of Cities in San
Antonio, TX on November 12.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Left to right: Teresa Goodwin, GEH AT&T;Lorraine Anderson, Former Arvada City
Councilmember; Todd Sanders, Center forDigital Government; Michele Hovet, City of
Arvada; Mark Williams, Arvada CityCouncilmember; Brett Bailey, Hyland-Onbase.
OfficialNovember 3, 2009City CouncilElection ResultsAt-Large
Allard 9,581 50.77%Azari 9,289 49.23%
District 1Rachel Zenzinger 2,596 53.68%Gus Spano 1,600 33.09%Robert Wolf 640 13.23%
District 3Shelley Cook 2,935 68.85%Bob Fifer 1,328 31.15%
Total voter turnout: 30.28%
Jefferson Parkway Faces Critical Vote
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
3
The Jefferson Parkway Public
Highway Authority (JPPHA), com-
prised of Jefferson County, the City
and County of Broomfield, and the City of
Arvada, was formed in 2008 with the goal
of constructing the last significant remain-
ing piece of the metropolitan beltway, clos-
ing the gap between State Highway 128 in
Broomfield and State Highway 93 at
approximately
W. 58th Avenue north of Golden.
The JPPHA has made significant
progress towards achieving its goal. The
next critical step in the process is for the
Jefferson Parkway to be included in the
Denver Regional Council of Government’s
(DRCOG) Fiscally Constrained Metro
Vision Regional Transportation Plan, which
describes the highest priority transportation
projects that can be accommodated with
future expected revenues. The DRCOG
Board of Directors will hold a public hear-
ing on this item at their December 16, 2009
meeting, and vote on the issue at their
January 20, 2010 meeting.
The completion of the beltway is not
just a Jefferson County issue—it is a
Denver metropolitan area issue. A complet-
ed beltway is a necessity for effective trans-
portation in the Denver metropolitan area.
To state otherwise ignores not only future
projections about population and traffic
growth, but current conditions and the
already evident lack of mobility in northern
Jefferson County.
Over the past two decades employment
and population growth have soared in the
Denver metro area. In the five- county
region of Jefferson, Boulder, Broomfield,
Larimer, and Weld counties, employment
increased from 560,000 jobs to 725,000
jobs, or 30%. Jobs bring workers and their
families from outside the region and outside
the State—causing the five-county popula-
tion to grow over the same time period by
28%. With roughly 2.3 cars per household,
it is no surprise that traffic volumes grew
proportionately. During this growth period,
the increased traffic in the northwest metro
area has been forced onto local streets and
State highways that are not suited (nor were
they designed for) such loading. The “de-
facto” beltway includes Indiana Street,
Alkire Street, Ward Road, and Wadsworth
Boulevard to name a few.
While a vocal minority in the City of
Golden continues to push for improvements
to existing Jefferson County local roads, the
required funding (some $900 million dol-
lars) is not budgeted and this “fix” would
still result in intersections rated at a level of
service “F” or “fail.” Failing intersections
and a tab for $900 million dollars is not the
answer to the problem. Indeed, transporta-
tion funding in the State of Colorado faces a
quiet crisis; funding levels are insufficient to
maintain the current system, so new capaci-
ty projects are completely unfundable.
The Jefferson Parkway Public Highway
Authority looks to the private sector to
fund, by means of a toll road, the comple-
tion of the beltway along an alignment that
has been on metropolitan transportation
plans since the 1960s.
The construction of the Jefferson
Parkway is a matter that affects 2.5 million
residents in the Denver metropolitan area.
As the late Rocky Mountain News stated in a
March 25, 2008 editorial: “Beltways
enhance much-needed suburb to suburb
connections. They take traffic off local
streets. They provide motorists with more
direct routes to their destinations, thus saving
them time and the money spent on increas-
ingly expensive gasoline.” The Denver Postconcurred in a March 23, 2008 editorial:
“We hope a plan goes forward that can close
the beltway around Denver—40 years after
the idea was first proposed.” The Jefferson
Parkway Public Highway Authority is pre-
pared to do just that.
Make your voices heard! Support the inclusion of the Jefferson Parkway on the DRCOG Fiscally Constrained Metro VisionRegional Transportation Plan. You may submit comments online at the following website: http://www.drcog.org/publiccomment/dsp_postComment.cfm?subjectormeeting=Cycle2_2009_commentsonAmendments. For more infor-mation visit http://www.drcog.org/index.cfm?page=Dec.16,2009,PublicHearing or contact Jill Locantore with DRCOG at303-480-6752.
“We hope a plan goes forward
that can close the beltway
around Denver—40 years after
the idea was first proposed.”
The Denver Post Editorial
Page, March 23, 2008
Employees of the MonthThe Employee of the Month is nominated by fel-low workers and chosen by a subcommittee ofthe City’s Employee Committee. Recipients arehonored in front of the employee body and pre-sented a certificate and gift by City ManagerCraig Kocian. Their name is engraved on aplaque which hangs at the main entrance ofArvada City Hall.
Kim GrantKim Grant,
Grants Administratorfor the City ofArvada, was theSeptember Employeeof the Month. Granthas been with theCity since 1999.Grant coordinatesproject development,prospect research,proposal writing, andgrant implementationand reporting respon-sibilities across
departments, and has secured literally millionsof dollars in funding for the City of Arvadawhich have made possible such projects as his-toric Olde Town revitalization and park acquisi-tions. His nominators state, “Since 1999, KimGrant has built a successful, high-achievinggrant-making fortress, and this has onlyoccurred because he has served as its strongfoundation. He is able to translate discussioninto action, insuring our grant applications arepositioned in the best possible way for thegrantor’s consideration. He is a consummateprofessional who does what he does very, verywell.”
PD Employee Highlights
VanderVeen Promoted to Sergeant
Robert
VanderVeen
was recently
promoted to the
rank of ser-
geant. Sergeant
VanderVeen
joined the
Arvada Police
Department in
1993 and has worked a variety of
assignments during that time including
Patrol, Criminal Investigations Bureau,
DUI officer, polygraph specialist, bicy-
cle officer, and field training officer.
One of his assignments in the Criminal
Investigations Bureau was to coordi-
nate the investigation of the Youth
With A Mission shootings occurring in
December 2007. Following his promo-
tion to sergeant, VanderVeen has been
assigned to the Patrol Bureau.
Rzeppa Recognized by West
Chamber
Sergeant Jo
Ann Rzeppa
was honored
for her extraor-
dinary work at
the Arvada
Police
Department at
the Celebrate
Women of Jefferson County event,
hosted by the West Chamber of
Jefferson County in November.
Sergeant Rzeppa has established
herself in the field of law enforcement
and attained the position of sergeant
through hard work and determination.
Having worked in Patrol, Investigations,
and Administration, she now oversees
the School Services Unit for the
Department.
“Jo Ann works tirelessly to ensure
the effective operation of the School
Resource Officers and the safety of the
children of Arvada,” said Commander
Jim Keating. “She has forged positive
relationships within the School District
with everyone from the Superintendent
to individual teachers in the classroom
and even the students themselves.”
Commander Keating adds, “You
can find Jo Ann in the classroom read-
ing to kindergarteners, teaching safety
classes in the elementary schools, and
offering instruction and guidance at the
middle and high school levels in addi-
tion to her supervisory duties at the
Police Department.”
Patricia Kelly Named Top Victim
Advocate in State
Patricia
Kelly, Victim/
Family
Support
Advocate at
Ralston
House,
received the
2009 Deana
Griswould
Award for Outstanding Victim Advocate
in the Non-Profit Sector from the
Colorado Organization for Victim
Assistance. The award was presented
at their annual conference in Keystone
this past October.
“As a victim advocate, Patricia is
not only knowledgeable and compas-
sionate with children, teens, and their
families, but also mentors Ralston
House volunteers to guide them in their
assistance to the nearly 700 families
who visit the center each year,” said
Don Moseley, executive director of
Ralston House
Grant
VanderVeen
Rzeppa
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
City of Arvada Employee Corner
What Arvada Residents SayAbout City of Arvada
EmployeesIn the 2009 Arvada Citizen Survey,
respondents were asked if they had had con-tact with a City employee within the last 12months. Those who had were asked theiropinion on a number of characteristics. Thepercentage of respondents whose impres-sion was “good” or “very good” are as follows:Professional attitude, 83% Knowledgeable: 82% Willingness to help or understand: 79%Overall impression: 78%
These rankings are all above nationalaverages. For more results from the 2009Arvada Citizen Survey, visitwww.arvada.org.
4
Kelly
Arvada Crews Excel at National Snowand Ice “Roadeo”
Lorraine Anderson Honoredfor 24 Years of Service
City of Arvada streets department employees Tom
Bucholz, Ron Mann, Tom Swartwood, and Brian
Williams have one thing to say to Mother Nature:
Bring it on! These skilled equipment operators proved they
can tackle whatever winter has to offer at the 2009 National
Snow and Ice Conference and Roadeo. Cities, counties,
and states send their best crews to this national competition
which puts two-person teams through a written test, a diag-
nostic test, and an obstacle course.
The written test assesses knowledge of the rules and
laws that govern commercially licensed drivers. The diag-
nostic test requires the operator to inspect a plow truck and
discover four mechanical defects within five minutes
(defects can be as minute as a missing bolt or nut). Finally,
each operator drives through an obstacle course designed to
test their ability to negotiate very tight obstacles made of
cones, barrels, and barricades. The clearance on each side
of the truck is typically about one inch with no room for
error.
Bucholz and Mann placed third in the Single Axle
Truck; Swartwood and Williams placed third in the Tandem
Axle Truck.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
5
Aaron AzariLeaves CouncilAfter Eight Years
Former At-Large City CouncilmemberAaron Azari lost his re-election bid toDon Allard on November 3. Azari servedfrom 2001 - 2009.
Former Arvada City Councilmember Lorraine Anderson, far right, is roasted by Jefferson CountyCommissioners Faye Griffith (far left) and Kathy Hartman at a November 19 recognition ceremony.Ms. Anderson, who served 24 years on the Arvada City Council as the District Three representative,
was term limited. Councilmember Shelley Cook was elected to the District Three seat on November 3.
Left to right: Tom Swartwood, Ron Mann, Tom Bucholz, and Brian Williams.
City Council Seeking Applicants For CitizenAppointed Boards and Commissions
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
6
The Arvada City Council is recruiting for
applicants to fill vacancies for 2010 on
the Boards and Commissions listed
below. Information is also available on the
City’s web site at www.arvada.org, or call the
City Clerk’s Office at 720-898-7550.
Boards and Commissions are established for
the purpose of acquiring and studying informa-
tion in specific areas and to make recommenda-
tions to the City Council on issues within the
Board’s area of expertise. Some Boards are
quasi-judicial and have decision-making powers
within their areas of expertise; some are advisory
Boards to both staff and City Council. The City
relies heavily on citizen volunteers to study spe-
cial community issues, provide staff direction,
obtain public comment on key projects, and take
action or offer recommendations to Council on
any number of matters. These groups are the
community’s voice that influences public policy
and decisions that impact the entire City.
The recruitment period is December, 2009
through January 15, 2010. Applications, along
with the accompanying questionnaires, are due in
the City Clerk’s Office by 5:00 p.m. on Friday,
January 15, 2010. Each application must be
accompanied by the questionnaire specific to the
Board for which you are applying. The ques-
tionnaires can be obtained on the City’s web site
at www.arvada.org or through the City Clerk’s
Office. You may also attach a short resume,
although it is not required. Tentatively, appli-
cants will be selected for interviews the week of
February 8, 2010 with interviews scheduled for
the week of February 22, 2010. Appointments
will be made in April.
Description of Boards and Commissions With
2010 Vacancies
Arvada Council for the Arts andHumanities - Arts Council members advocate
for the arts and humanities and for the Arvada
Center, and are committed fundraisers and
informed advisors to the City of Arvada and
Arvada Center staff. Projects on the current
work plan, both short-term and long-term,
include: establishment of a Public Art Policy;
support of increased goals for the annual operat-
ing fund; promoting education opportunities at
the Arvada Center; and targeted recruitment of
Board Membership. Board meetings are gener-
ally on the second Tuesday of each month at
5:30 p.m., with committee meetings at various
other times on a monthly basis. This is a volun-
teer appointment. Term of office is three years.
Arvada Festivals Commission* – Sponsors,
coordinates, plans, and works with community-
based organizations on festivals of community-
wide celebration by promoting activities consis-
tent with public celebration. Members participate
as active volunteers in putting together current
festivals and events as well as helping to create
new ones for the City and citizens of Arvada.
Responsibilities include:
• Regularly attend at least 8 of the 12 monthly
meetings scheduled in the calendar year;
• Participate in the planning of at least two of
the Commission’s events by attending sub-
committee meetings for these events or oper-
ational committees;
• Volunteer to work and actively take part on
the day of at least two additional
Commission events;
• Maintain and submit Commission documenta-
tion as necessary (volunteer hours, budgets,
sub-committee meeting notes, etc.)
Meets generally on the fourth Thursday of
every month at 7:00 p.m. This is a volunteer
appointment. Terms are for three years.
Arvada Liquor Licensing Authority* -Considers new and transfer-of-ownership appli-
cations for liquor licenses and conducts hearings
on alleged violations of the liquor code. Meets
generally on the second and fourth Thursday of
each month at 5:30 p.m. Appointees are paid
$75 per meeting. Terms are for three years.
Arvada Urban Renewal Authority – AURA
is responsible for the revitalization of three dis-
tinct urban renewal districts: Ralston Fields,
Village Commons, and the Jefferson Center, as
well as two new future districts, the Olde Town
Station and the proposed Northwest Arvada.
AURA’s goal is to redevelop properties within
the urban renewal districts; to afford maximum
opportunity for the rehabilitation or development
of the urban renewal area; to stabilize and pro-
vide for additional commercial, office, retail, and
residential development opportunities to serve
the needs of the City of Arvada and the regional
area; and to maximize return to the City of
Arvada through sales and property tax collec-
tions by optimizing the fiscal assets and the real
estate assets, both AURA-owned and privately
owned. The Board of Commissioners meets on
the first and third Wednesday of each month at
5:30 p.m. at AURA’s office at 5601 Olde
Wadsworth Boulevard, Suite 210. This is a vol-
unteer appointment. Terms are for five years.
Board of Adjustment* – Hears all appeals
of the zoning ordinance and requests for vari-
ances to the Land Development Code. Meets
generally on the second and fourth Tuesday of
each month at 7:00 p.m. Appointees are paid
$75 per meeting. Terms are for three years.
Gold Line Committee*– The Gold Line
Advisory Committee addresses issues related to
the Gold Line, a commuter rail corridor due to
open in Arvada in 2016. The committee pro-
vides education to the community related to the
Gold Line, solicits public feedback on Gold Line
issues, and provides advice to City Council on
such matters as transit station design. This is a
volunteer appointment. Meets generally on
Thursday evenings once a month at 6:00 p.m.
Terms are for three years.
Human Services Advisory Committee* -Advises the City Council on the allocation of
funding from the Human Services funding pool,
as well as the funding for public services from
the Community Development Block Grant.
Meets generally four to six times per year in the
evening. This is a volunteer appointment. Terms
are for three years.
Park Advisory Committee* - Prioritizes and
makes recommendations to the City Council on
projects for parks, open spaces, and trails; works
with the City’s Parks, Golf, and Hospitality
Department to prioritize park and open space
issues; actively participates in park dedications
and occasional field trips to parks, trails, and
open space areas; and works cooperatively with
Apex Park and Recreation District Board and
staff. This committee meets generally on the
second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.
This is a volunteer appointment. Terms are for
three years.
Planning Commission* - Serves as an advi-
sory body to the City Council and reviews
annexations, rezonings, subdivisions, and
planned unit developments, and formulates a
long-range comprehensive plan. Meets generally
on the first and third Tuesday of each month at
5:30 p.m. Appointees are paid $100 per meeting.
Terms are for four years.
Transportation Committee* - Prioritizes
transportation improvement projects and recom-
mends possible funding alternatives. Meets as
needed in the evening, usually several meetings
per year. This is a volunteer appointment.
Terms are for three years.
*You must be a resident of the City ofArvada to apply.
CITY OF ARVADA
2010 City of Arvada Boards andCommissions Application Form
The Boards and Commissions listed below will have vacancies occurring in 2010. If you are interested in applying, please fill out
this application form AND the questionnaire specific to each Board or Commission. The questionnaires are available on the City’s
web site at www.arvada.org or by calling the City Clerk’s office at 720-898-7550. Please submit both the completed application
form AND questionnaire to the City Clerk’s office by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 15, 2010.
Name:______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________ Zip Code: __________________
Home Phone Number: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Work Number: ______________________________________________________________________________________________
Cell Number: ________________________________________________________________________________________________
Fax Number:________________________________ E-Mail: ________________________________________________________
Occupation: ________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name of Company/Firm: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Prior Work Experience: ________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Education: __________________________________________________________________________________________________
Indicate up to three Boards and Commissions on which you would be interested in serving by ranking them as 1, 2, or 3:
! Arvada Council for the Arts and Humanities ! Arvada Festivals Commission
! Arvada Liquor Licensing Authority ! Arvada Urban Renewal Authority
! Board of Adjustment ! Gold Line Committee
! Human Services Advisory Committee ! Parks Advisory Committee
! Planning Commission ! Transportation Committee
How many years have you lived in Arvada? __________________________
Have you previously served on any City of Arvada Board or Commission? Yes ! No !
If so, what Board or Commission and years served: __________________________________________________________________
Do you have any relatives employed by the City? Yes ! No !
Referred by: ________________________________________________________________________________________________
You may also attach a short resume to this application form, although it is not required. Citizens are limited to 12 years of service perBoard or Committee. Applicants are considered for appointment regardless of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.Note that most of the Boards and Commissions require you to be a resident of the City of Arvada.
For more information, contact the City Clerk’s Office at 720-898-7550
between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Thank you for your interest in the community!
7
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
8
Have you ever driven down
Ralston Road and thought that
this corridor has potential to be
something more? Or walked along the
street and desired a safer environment
that is more pedestrian friendly? If so,
now is your chance to share those ideas.
The City of Arvada is beginning a
planning process to work with the com-
munity to develop a long-term plan for
retrofitting this unique and important
corridor. The study area spans 1.5 miles
between Olde Town Arvada and the
Arvada Triangle, roughly bounded by
Brooks Drive/Ralston Creek to the north
and Grandview Avenue to the south.
This project will build off of previous
planning studies that have been completed
for Olde Town and the Triangle, but will
focus on the connecting corridor and its
relationship to adjacent neighborhoods.
City staff and their consultant,
Charlier Associates, Inc., will be hosting
a series of coffees in December to listen
to the community goals, objectives, and
desired outcomes. In early spring, pub-
lic workshops will be held to define and
evaluate scenarios for transportation
improvements and redevelopment.
A vital component of the study is for
the community to articulate a vision of
the future Ralston Road Corridor. The
project team invites active participation
with the public to develop design
changes that transform the corridor to
meet the vision. The future Ralston
Road Corridor Plan can be successful
only if land use and transportation alter-
natives are packaged together in realistic
scenarios. Citizens will have the oppor-
tunity to work with the project team to
create an integrated set of scenarios that
combine land use and transportation
solutions that make sense together.
The City of Arvada is actively
involved in community outreach and
offers a number of communication tools.
Please mark your calendars for our first
public workshop, to be held on February
25, 2010. The project team will publish
study information to the project website
(http://arvada.org/transportation/
ralston-road-corridor-plan). We also
invite you to sign up for e-mail or phone
updates that will be broadcast via
Notify-Me services (http://arvada.org/
residents/notify-me). For questions or
additional project information, please
contact Patty Lorence, City of Arvada
Traffic and Transportation Division at
720-898-7740.
Ralston Road Corridor Planning Effort Begins
Vision StatementTo provide an integrated land useand transportation plan for theRalston Road Corridor Study Areathat will enhance neighborhoodconnectivity, improve safety,encourage redevelopment andattract economic development,and provide a pleasant journeyalong a complete street throughthe heart of historic Arvada.
Ralston Road
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The Arvada Police Department’ssection of The Arvada Report ispublished by the City of Arvada withcontent provided by the ArvadaPolice Department as a service tothe citizens of Arvada.
Contact NumbersEmergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .911
Non-EmergencyReporting . . . . . . . . . .720-898-6900
Office ofthe Chief . . . . . . . . . .720-898-6650
RecordsDepartment . . . . . . . .720-898-6920
Investigations . . . . . . .720-898-6700
MediaRelations . . . . . . . . . .720-898-6654
Arvada Police Department8101 Ralston Road • Arvada CO 80002
720-898-6900www.arvadapd.org
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
These five pages of The Arvada Report arefor and about the Arvada Police Department.
policedepartment
As 2009 comes to a close, I want
to share some of the many high-
lights from the year related to the
Arvada Police Department and safety in
our community.
The Directed Police Intervention
(DPI) strategy continues to have a posi-
tive effect on reducing crime. DPI brings
members of the Arvada Police
Department to locations in the City
where crime is concentrated. One of the
recent intervention areas was Olde Town
Arvada. After six weeks of saturated
police response, crime dropped nearly
20% in the area this past summer. In that
time, people with warrants were arrested,
while parks with overgrown brush were
cleared to reduce hiding spaces for
would-be criminals and to make patrol
efforts more effective. Although the DPI
emphasis has shifted to a different part of
the City, the crime rate in Olde Town
remains lower compared to statistics
from a year ago.
Nearly a half-dozen locations were
part of the DPI effort during the year, and
we plan to continue with this effort in
2010.
A crime impacting all areas of the
City is that of car break-ins. This crime
has seen a double-digit increase from
2008 statistics. While arrests have been
made throughout the year, more needs to
be done to lower these numbers. We need
the help of citizens to take simple steps
to reduce this crime of opportunity. The
most effective ways to do this are to
avoid leaving anything of value in your
car, and to always lock your car doors.
This past summer marked the conclu-
sion of a comprehensive criminal trial of
a homicide occurring two years ago.
Ricky Regalado, a suspect in a homicide
at the Castlegate Apartments in July of
2007, was convicted of first-degree mur-
der in Jefferson County in 2009. He will
join Thomas Garrison in a life sentence
in prison for their roles in the death of
Shawn Rodriguez. continued on page 13
A Message from the Chief of Police
See Your PoliceDepartment in ActionVisit www.arvadapd.org to see
members of your Police Departmentas they patrol the streets of the City.You can click on videos on the website as well as learn about the latestcrime prevention information andupcoming events.
Cable subscribers can also watchCop Talk on KATV Channel 8 to seethe Arvada Police Department’smonthly television show.Sunday: 10:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.Thursday: 1:30 p.m. Friday: 7:30 p.m. Saturday: 7:30 a.m. Visit www.arvadapd.org to take part in a survey about Cop Talk to shape
the future of the program. The survey takes only minutes to complete. If you
would like a survey sent to you, please call Susan Medina at 720-898-6654
for more information. 9
Get Socialwith the Police
www.twitter.com/arvadapolice
Search Arvada Police Departmentand ask to become a fan.
Do you Tweet on Twitter? Do you
have a Facebook page?
If so, follow the Arvada Police
Department on these two social media
sites. By doing so, you’ll join hundreds
of people who are getting the latest
police news and information. Stay con-
nected with your Police Department and
receive real-time information about
upcoming events and crime news.
Crooks Target iPods
10
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
As City of Arvada employees
helped deliver gifts as part of
last year’s Lighting up the
Holidays program, they came across a
single mom who was brought to tears
by the generosity demonstrated by the
presents given to her family. She was
completely taken aback when a City
employee presented her with a Safeway
grocery store gift card for a turkey din-
ner with all of the trimmings that had
been donated by an Arvada resident.
It’s not too late to help with the
2009 Lighting up the Holidays pro-
gram. There is still a great need for this
year’s gift giving event.
“We are in need of new toy dona-
tions as well as gift cards to places like
Target to purchase last
minute gifts for the
kids,” said Carrie Brady
of the Arvada Police
Department, who helps
coordinate the program.
“We also provide par-
ents with gift cards to
grocery stores to help
with food if resources
allow.”
Please call 720-898-
7586 to take part in this
important gift-giving event that brings
toys to hundreds of kids living in
Arvada. You can also drop off new toy
donations to Arvada City Hall (8101
Ralston Road) during regular business
hours or at Downtown Toys and Games
in Olde Town Arvada (5515 Olde
Wadsworth) after 5:00 p.m. and on
weekends until December 19.
Make the season bright for a child
in need this Christmas.
You love your iPod. You love themusic. You love the video, and don’t for-get those pictures! Guess what: so doesa thief. With more and more peopleusing MP3 Players, police are seeing anincrease in these clever gadgets beingstolen.Here are a few tips to keep your musicand your player safe.• Keep your iPod hidden and never
leave it unattended.• Never store it in your car.• Put a lock on your MP3 player. You
can purchase a lock that will attachon your iPod so you can lock it on toanything you want such as a purse, abackpack, or even a treadmill at thegym. Be sure to register your iPod on the
Apple website or through the companyof another brand. Create an Apple nameand password if you don’t have onealready. Also register your serial numberwhich is found on the back of your iPod.Keep the serial number in a safe place soyou can report the information to thepolice in the event your MP3 player isstolen.
“When an arrest is made in a theft orburglary crime and property is recov-ered, our detectives review policereports to match serial numbers fromstolen property previously reported. By
keeping a solid list of serial numbers ofelectronics and other items of value inyour home, crime victims have a betterchance of having their stolen itemsreturned,” said Commander GaryHutchcraft who oversees the CriminalInvestigations Bureau.
You have a lot of time and moneyinvested in making your MP3 Player yourvery own. Be sure to take steps so yourmusic, pictures, and video stay with youa long time.
It’s Not Too Late to Get Involved in GiftGiving Program
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
11
Auto Theft Task Force Warns Public AgainstLeaving Valet Keys in Vehicles
Members of the newly
formed Jefferson County
Regional Auto Theft Task
Force (JCRATT) are warning the pub-
lic about an increasing number of
vehicles being stolen by using a valet
key commonly found in the glove
compartment of many vehicles.
Sergeant Dave Hoover of JCRATT
said that many vehicles, especially
high-end models, come from the fac-
tory with a valet key that is usually
with the original ownership manual or
paperwork commonly kept in the
glove compartment.
“Thieves need only to break into the
vehicle and find a valet key before being
on their way with your car,” said
Sergeant Hoover. “We are urging every-
one to check inside their vehicles and
remove the valet keys when not needed.”
Valet keys are commonly used to
give a parking attendant the ability to
operate your car and park it. The key
allows the vehicle to be started and
driven; however it will not access the
trunk or glove compartment.
Sergeant Hoover added, “There are
probably many vehicle owners that
don’t even know their car came with a
valet key. We suggest that everyone
check their glove compartment for
them and remove them if found prior
to leaving your car unattended.”
If you leave your car running unat-
tended as it warms in Arvada’s frosty
mornings, you may become a victim
of auto theft.
“Unfortunately, there are car thieves
who prowl through the City for the
chance to steal a car running unattended,
whether it’s in front of a convenience
store or in the driveway of a home in one
of our neighborhoods,” said Commander
Jim Keating of the Arvada Police
Department.
With the arrival of cold weather and
frost on the windshields, there is tradi-
tionally an increase in the number of cars
stolen due to the fact residents leave their
vehicles running unoccupied.
In an effort to reduce car thefts in
Arvada, the City has adopted strict motor
vehicle theft laws.
Two City of Arvada ordinances
address the crime of auto thefts at the
local level: Unauthorized Control over aMotor Vehicle and Motor VehicleTrespass. Suspects charged with violatingthese ordinances will have to make bond
or appear in court the next arraignmentday. The municipal legal process isdesigned for swift justice with immediatejail sentencing upon conviction.
Another facet of the auto theft reduc-
tion program known as Operation Auto
CRUSH addresses efforts to reduce
“puffer” crimes in the City.
That law states that no person driv-ing or in charge of a motor vehicle shallpermit it to stand unattended on propertyother than a street or highway and onpublic property without first stopping theengine, locking the ignition, removingthe key from the ignition andeffectively setting thebrake thereon.
Violation of this law can result in a
municipal summons being issued to the
owner of the car.
“Our officers have spent a significant
amount of time working to reduce crimes
of opportunity, and the community can
greatly assist in decreasing these numbers
as well by always locking car doors and
never leaving vehicles running unattend-
ed,” said Commander Keating.
For those citizens who have keyless sys-
tems for their cars they can leave their vehi-
cle running if they remove the key, lock the
ignition, and set the brake of the car in com-
pliance with the law.
Car Thieves Warm Up to Cars Left Running
By staying with your car while it warms you may avoid:• Paying an insurance deductible should your car be stolen.• Receiving a summons for leaving your car unattended and running. • Having your car used by a crook to commit other crimes such as burglaries.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
12
Adriver tucked this note under
the windshield wiper of his
automobile. “I’ve circled the
block for 20 minutes. I’m late for an
appointment, and if I don’t park here
I’ll lose my job. Forgive us our tres-
passes.” When he came back he
found a parking ticket and this note:
“I’ve circled the block for 20 years,
and if I don’t give you a ticket, I’ll
lose my job. Lead us not into temp-
tation.”
It may be a bit unorthodox, but a
quick joke of the week is how
Arvada Police Senior Liaison Officer
Don Sikkema starts his community
meetings with seniors.
Whether it’s a recreation center or
a senior living community, Officer
Sikkema meets with more than five
dozen seniors (ages 60 and older) at
four different sessions throughout the
week. After the weekly funny,
Officer Sikkema listens to their con-
cerns, shares crime information, talks
about the latest scams targeting sen-
iors, and offers crime prevention tips.
“It’s important to get out and
meet with people, to have face-to-
face contact with an officer in a situ-
ation where a crime has not
occurred,” said Officer Sikkema,
who began serving as the Senior
Liaison Officer (SLO) in January
2009. “Some seniors are very nerv-
ous to talk to people on the phone.
The fact someone will spend time
with them is imperative.”
Officer Sikkema’s goal is to meet
with hundreds of seniors each week
to share crime prevention informa-
tion. He also tells each group to relay
the crime prevention tips to another
person outside of the meeting to
maximize the effectiveness of the
message.
The SLO is also responsible for
investigating crimes against seniors.
The SLO files felony cases with the
Jefferson County District Attorney’s
Office on a regular basis.
Officer
Sikkema has also
been proactive in
his approach
towards crime tar-
geting the senior
population.
Earlier this year,
Officer Sikkema
initiated a “sting”
operation
designed to catch
a suspect known
for stealing wal-
lets from shop-
ping carts. This suspect was targeting
the senior population as they
shopped in Arvada. Officer Sikkema
coordinated with one of the patrol
teams and had a female officer work
in an undercover capacity as an eld-
erly female. He enlisted the help
from the Arvada Center costuming
department, who provided an outfit,
makeup, and other props to properly
“age” the officer. While the sting did
not catch the suspect that day, he was
later caught and interviewed, con-
fessing to several thefts from seniors
in Arvada, Lakewood, and Denver.
In addition to meeting with sen-
iors and working cases, Officer
Sikkema oversees programs to better
assist those in this age group.
The Lockbox Program is a safe
and secure way for police, fire and
paramedics to help a senior in need
in an emergency situation.
There is also the Solicitor
Verification Program to protect sen-
iors (and the community as a whole)
from bogus businesses and other
people intent on swindling citizens.
In the Colorado Life Trak
Program, family members register
their loved one to receive a wrist
band which contains a transmitter
tracking signal. If their loved one
wanders off, a report is made to the
Arvada Police Department and the
system is activated so the missing
person can be more easily located.
This important program is available
for seniors with dementia issues and
at-risk adults or children who are not
mentally capable of knowing they
are missing. More than one dozen
Arvada residents are currently
enrolled in the Life Trak Program.
The Arvada Police Department
first introduced the Senior Liaison
Officer program in 1995. For nearly
15 years, the officer serving in this
assignment has worked to help sen-
iors (ages 60 and older) navigate
through situations where they are
crime victims or in need of crime
prevention information or referrals to
other assistance agencies.
“The SLO serves as an important
resource for seniors related to quality
of life issues and problem solving in
their everyday lives,” said Deputy
Chief Lynn Johnson. “The SLO pro-
gram has become part of the fabric of
the Arvada Police Department and is
a service of which we are very
proud.”
Senior Liaison Officer Makes TremendousImpact in Community
On average, more than 500 cases involving senior victims occur each year in Arvada.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
13
Message fromthe Chief ofPolice
continued from page 9
This was a complicatedcase filled with twists andturns that led investigators todifferent states in pursuit ofone of the suspects. In theend, Arvada is a safer placebecause those responsible forthis crime are in prison.
While this was a high-pro-file case, our police officersand detectives prepared forand testified at many othercritical trials during the year.
I would be remiss if I didnot discuss the efforts of thePolice Department to ensurewe continue to be good stew-ards of taxpayer money relat-ed to the budget. In 2009, wemade a significant effort toanalyze the budget to reducespending where possible andto make business changes tostreamline operations and ulti-mately save money. We willcontinue this process witheach budget cycle.
I speak on behalf of themembers of the Arvada PoliceDepartment in relaying thatwe take great pride in ourcommitment to public safetyin Arvada. We work each andevery day with the goal ofensuring the quality of life forthose who work, play, and livein Arvada.
Please look for the ArvadaPolice Department’s completeannual report onwww.arvadapd.org in thecoming months.
Be safe.Don Wick
Chief of Police
Secret Shopper Scamon Police Radar
A secret shopper scam is targetingthose seeking employment on popularweb sites such as Craigslist, according topolice.
In a handful of cases reported to theArvada Police Department, the victim(s)attempted to cash fraudulent checkswritten by representatives from boguscompanies.
Here’s how the scam works: Oncethe victim is hired through the adver-tisement of becoming a secret shopper,he/she is sent two checks and asked tocash both. The victim is instructed toretain the cash from one check whilewiring the remaining money to a per-son in another state under the guise of‘rating the wire service business.’
“The problem is both checks arefraudulent to begin with, and the victimmay be responsible for the hundreds ofdollars cashed through their bank,” saidSergeant Steve Grisham with theArvada Police Department.
There are steps you can take to pro-tect yourself from these scams.• Be careful of easy money offers
through a potential employer.• Be cautious of claims of a business
offering you money in excess of aproduct’s value and especially thoseasking you to wire money from oneplace to another.Something else to consider is that
you may unwittingly offer your personalinformation to these fraudulent compa-nies by sending your resume containingyour name and address.
Tips to avoid jeopardizing your per-sonal information include: validatingthe authenticity of a business throughreputable sources such as the BetterBusiness Bureau, never offer your socialsecurity number on a resume or otherdocuments as you proceed through ahiring process, and follow the adage of‘if it’s too good to be true, it probably is.’
Police say while this particular scamappears on Craigslist, there are manymethods crooks use to swindle moneyfrom unsuspecting victims such asphone calls, bogus e-mails, and a varietyof Internet sites.
Thanks to Serenity Salon for SuccessfulFundraiser
Thanks to the very talented and very
dedicated staff at the Serenity Salon
(13761 W. 85th Drive in Five Parks),
more than $5,000 was raised during a
Cut-A-Thon in support of the Ralston
House.
Haircuts, facials, manicures, pedi-
cures, and massages were the services
offered during the four-hour fund-rais-
ing event held in November.
Each service ($25) plus tips and
sponsorship of the staff at Serenity went
directly to Ralston House.
“We are so thankful for the generos-
ity of the team at the Serenity Salon.
They gave up their time on a Sunday,
away from their families, to make the
difference in the life of a child,” said
Don Moseley, director of Ralston
House.
Ralston House is a family-friendly site
for Jefferson County law enforcement
agencies and other health professionals to
interview children who have been physi-
cally or sexually abused. Hundreds of
children visit the site each year where
they begin the healing process from these
traumatic events.
14
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Recycle Those Christmas Trees!
Save landfill space while creating
valuable mulch by recycling
your Christmas trees at the end
of the holiday season. Each year the
City of Arvada reduces thousands of
Christmas trees into mulch that is
used to enhance soil throughout the
community.
There are two drop-off sites for
your trees. The City Park Maintenance
Shops at 7800 W. 62nd Avenue will
accept trees Monday through Friday
from 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., through
Friday, January 22, 2010. The Lutz
Sports Complex at 5700 Oak Street
(access the southwest parking lot off
of Oak Street) does not have restricted
days or times for drop-off and will
accept trees through Sunday, January
24, 2010.
To ensure the safety of equipment
operators, please make sure the tree is
free of nails, wire, and all decorations.
Only Christmas trees are accepted—
no garlands, wreaths, or yard waste.
Mulch will be available free of
charge at all three locations; residents
will be responsible for loading and
hauling of mulch. This service is for
Arvada residents only (no business or
commercial disposal).
For more information on the
Christmas tree mulching program or how
to use mulch in your landscape, call the
Parks division at 720-898-7410.
The American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act of 2009, signed
into law on February 17, awarded
one billion dollars in Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG)
funds to be distributed to local govern-
ments throughout the country for the
purpose of stimulating the economy
through measures that modernize the
nation’s infrastructure, improve energy
efficiency, and expand educational
opportunities and access to health care.
The City of Arvada, one of approximate-
ly 1,200 jurisdictions that shared in the
grant funding, received $136,700.
Jurisdictions must ensure that 70 per-
cent of its CDBG grant be expended for
activities that benefit low- and moderate-
income persons. Grantees must also
identify projects that could be funded
within 120 days from the date the funds
were made available. Arvada quickly
moved to identify eligible uses for the
funds that met important City needs.
$20,500 was awarded to the Arvada
Community Food Bank and to the Carin’
Clinic (a provider of health care services
for children of low-income families).
$116,200 was allocated for
the removal of three deteriorated
and hazardous pedestrian and
bicycle path crossings along the
Ralston Creek trail just west of
Wadsworth Bypass. These aged,
low-water crossings become
blocked with debris and water,
causing a flooding and safety
hazard to surrounding structures
and to trail users. In addition, the
sidewalk connecting the crossings
is of inadequate width and is set-
tling. The crossings will be replaced
with a new span crossing including grad-
ing, berms, walkway improvements,
replacement of landscaping, and restora-
tion of the creek waterway. The project
will provide for environmental bene-
fits as well by preventing or decreas-
ing unnatural blockages to stream
flow and drainage dynamics that cur-
rently cause stream bank undercutting
and damage to vegetation. It is also
estimated 15 private sector construc-
tion jobs along with three design jobs
will be created or retained.
Construction should commence
before the end of 2009.
Additional Federal Funds Coming to Arvada
15
Black Walnut trees have been under
attack by the Walnut Twig Beetle in
many communities along the Front
Range. This Beetle, which is native to the
Southwest, has apparently moved north.
The Walnut Twig Beetle is a very aggres-
sive bark beetle that carries the Geosmithia
Fungus. The Beetles and Fungus girdle the
twigs and trunk of Black Walnut trees, restrict-
ing water and nutrient movement within the
tree. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting
foliage, usually starting at the top and pro-
gressing downward. To date, attempts by
arborists to control the Beetle and disease have
for the most part been unsuccessful. Trees
generally die two-to-three years after symp-
toms such as branch wilting or dieback are
observed. City of Arvada forestry crews have
removed over 40 dead Black Walnut trees on
public property since 2006, including 14 very
large Walnut trees at the Arvada Center.
Colorado State University professors
Whitney Cranshaw and Ned Tisserat have
been studying this beetle/fungus relationship,
which they have named Thousand Cankers
Disease. In Arvada, Thousand Cankers
Disease has spread throughout the entire com-
munity with little hope of saving the remain-
ing Black Walnut trees. There are, however,
many communities in Colorado that have been
isolated from Thousand Cankers Disease. It is
extremely important that Thousand Cankers
Disease is not introduced to these communi-
ties by transporting infected wood to these
areas. Recently cut Black Walnut trees show-
ing symptoms of Thousand Cankers Disease
can contain thousands of walnut twig beetles.
Diseased wood should be chipped, debarked,
or isolated from healthy Black Walnut trees.
Professor Cranshaw believes that if
Thousands Cankers Disease becomes estab-
lished within the native range of the Black
Walnut tree, the results could be catastrophic.
Prevention of the spread by preventing the
movement of infected wood is critical to the
protection and future survival of the Black
Walnut in North America.
Black Walnut Trees Dying Throughout Arvada
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Disabled Residents Need to Update Dispatch SystemArvada Emergency Services: Special Assistance Form
NAME: ____________________________________________________________
ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
PHONE: ____________________________________________________________
TTY/TDD: __________________________________________________________
NATURE OF DISABILITY (please check all that apply):
!! hearing impaired !! vision impaired !! mobility impaired
!! other (please describe) ____________________________________________
List Assistive Equipment (i.e., wheelchair, oxygen, assistance dog):
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Any additional information necessary for emergency services:
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
This information will be requested annually by the City of Arvada. Please notify us if
you move from this address by calling 720-898-7500, or 720-898-7869 TDD.
The City of Arvada is committed to supporting accessibility in the community. If you
have a concern related to accessibility, or would like more information, please call Vicky
Reier at 720-898-7509.
This is a reprint of an article that ran a year agoregarding special information for emergencydispatchers. If you would like for information toremain in the computer aided dispatch system,you must resubmit the information. The existinginformation will be purged from the system onDecember 31, 2009.
When an emergency occurs, a fast,
appropriate response is critical to a
successful outcome. The Arvada
Police Department, Arvada Fire Protection
District, and Pridemark Ambulance Service may
be able to deal more effectively with an emer-
gency when additional information about the vic-
tim is provided. The City collects information
related to special assistance requirements for citi-
zens in Arvada. Information is sent to dispatchers
for these three agencies and entered into the com-
puter dispatch system; it is made available to
response teams in case of an emergency. If you
have a disability that requires special assistance or
equipment, please consider filling out the attached
form and sending it to: City of Arvada, attn:
Vicky Reier, 8101 Ralston Road, Arvada, CO
80002. You may also send in your form via e-
mail. Receive a form electronically by e-mailing
vicky-r@arvada.org. Information is confiden-
tial. In order to keep the information current, it
will only be kept on file for one calendar year.
Each December 31 it will be purged from the
computer system.
Next year, if you wish to have the information
listed in the computer aided dispatch system, you
will need to resubmit the form. This notice will
be reproduced each year to remind you of this
opportunity.
Pink Heals Tour
It is once again time to finalize our annu-
al budget. The Board will approve the
budget in December which will desig-
nate operating capital for 2010.
Arriving at this final budget has not been
easy. District property tax income in 2009,
which is 92% of our annual income,
increased less than 1% over 2008. In 2010
our property tax will decrease 1.02%. In
addition, we are forecasting a decrease of
$100,000 in interest income and about
$100,000 in license fees. This equates to a
reduction in our overall income from these
three items of $364,000 or about a 2% over-
all reduction in income. Early on everything
pointed to a reduction of about 5-6%.
As with any entity, the most significant
expense in the budget is personnel, which
equals 80% of our total expenditures.
continued on page 19
ArvadaFire Protection
District
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
The Arvada Fire ProtectionDistrict’s section of The Arvada
Report is published by the City ofArvada with content provided by theArvada Fire Protection District as aservice to the citizens of Arvada. TheCity of Arvada is not responsible forthe accuracy of the information con-tained in this section of The Arvada
Report.
Board of Directors
James H. (Jim) SnyderPresident
Douglas J. (Doug) SchneiderVice President
Debra S. (Debi) LuftTreasurer
Gary Michael (Mike) KerrSecretary
Edward G. (Ted) Terranova
Assistant Secretary
Arvada
Fire Protection District7903 Allison Way • Arvada, CO 80005
303-424-3012
www.arvadafire.com
These four pages of The Arvada Report are forand about the Arvada Fire Protection District.
Chief’s LetterFIRE CHIEF JON GREER
fireprotection district
16
The Arvada Fire Protection District
hosted the Pink Heals Tour on
Tuesday, September 15 at the Home
Depot store, W. 52nd Avenue and
Wadsworth Boulevard between 7:00 a.m.
and 9:00 a.m.
The “Guardians of the Ribbon” are a
group of firefighters, police officers, and
leaders in the community whose purpose is
to raise awareness and money for the fight
against cancer for women nationwide.
North Metro Fire and Rescue hosted the
tour later in the day at Flatiron Crossing in
Broomfield.
“While firefighters are often thought of
as community heroes, this event gives us
the opportunity to show our strength and
support for the people in our community
who inspire us,” said Wendy Forbes of
North Metro Fire Rescue. “In our minds,
these men and women are the real heroes--
people fighting and surviving the battle
against cancer in
its various forms.”
Attendees of
the Pink Heals
Tour are wel-
comed to tour spe-
cial pink fire
trucks and have
their picture taken.
Women who have
been affected by
cancer are encour-
aged to sign their
name on one of
the trucks. !
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Winter Safety for Children
Whether winter brings severestorms, light dustings of snow,or just cold temperatures, here
are some valuable tips on how to keepyour children safe and warm.
What to Wear
Dress infants and children warmly foroutdoor activities in several thin layers tokeep them dry and warm. The rule ofthumb for older babies and young chil-dren is to dress them in one more layer ofclothing than an adult would wear in thesame conditions.
Blankets, quilts, pillows, sheepskins,and other loose bedding may contribute toSudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)and should be kept out of an infant’ssleeping environment. Sleep clothingsuch as one-piece sleepers is preferred. Ifa blanket must be used to keep a sleepinginfant warm, it should be tucked inaround the crib mattress, reaching only asfar as your baby’s chest, so the infant’sface is less likely to become covered bybedding.Hypothermia and Frostbite
Set reasonable time limits on outdoorplay to prevent frostbite. Have childrencome inside periodically to warm up.
Hypothermia develops when a child’stemperature falls below normal due toexposure to cold. It often happens when ayoungster is playing outdoors in extreme-ly cold weather without wearing properclothing, or when clothes get wet. Thechild may shiver and become lethargicand clumsy. His speech may becomeslurred and his body temperature willdecline. If you suspect your child ishypothermic, call 911 at once. Until help
arrives, take the child indoors, remove
any wet clothing, and wrap him in blan-
kets or warm clothes.
Frostbite happens when the skin and
outer tissues become frozen. This condi-
tion tends to happen on extremities like
the fingers, toes, ears, and nose. They
may become pale, gray, and blistered. At
the same time, the child may complain
that her skin burns or has become numb.
If frostbite occurs, bring the child
indoors and place the frostbitten parts of
her body in warm (not hot) water. 104°
Fahrenheit (about the temperature of most
hot tubs) is recommended. Warm wash-
cloths may be applied to frostbitten nose,
ears, and lips. DO NOT rub the frozen
areas. After a few minutes, dry and cover
her with clothing or blankets. Give her
something warm to drink. If the numb-
ness continues for more than a few min-
utes, call your doctor.
Ice Skating
Allow children to skate only on rink
surfaces—never on lakes or ponds.
Advise your child to skate in the same
direction as the crowd, avoid darting
across the ice, never skate alone, and do
not chew gum or eat candy while skating.
Consider having your child wear a helmet
while ice skating.
Sledding
Supervise children while sledding and
keep them away from motor vehicles.
Avoid sledding in crowded areas and keep
young children separated from older chil-
dren. Sledding feet first or sitting up,
instead of lying down head-first, may pre-
vent head injuries. Consider having your
child wear a helmet while sledding. Use
steerable sleds, which are structurally
sound and free of sharp edges and splin-
ters, with a well lubricated steering mech-
anism, not snow disks or inner tubes.
Sled slopes should be free of obstructions
like trees or fences, be covered in snow
not ice, not be too steep, and end with a
flat runoff.
Sun Protection
The sun’s rays can still cause sunburn
in the winter, especially when they reflect
off snow. Make sure to cover exposed
skin with sunscreen.
Fire Protection
Remember to buy and install smokealarms on every floor of your home, testsmoke alarms monthly, and practice firedrills with your children
American Academy of Pediatricshttp://www.aap.org/advocacy/releases/
decwintertips.cfm !
Family SafetyDay a Hit
Arvada Fire’s Family Safety Day
was a hit for everyone
involved. This year’s event
was held September 19 at the Arvada
Volunteer Firefighter Park and Retired
Fire Station #7, located near the inter-
section of W. 84th Avenue and Garrison
Street.
The focus of the day was home fire
safety. A demonstration was put on by
Arvada Fire about the amount of fire
protection that can be provided by a sin-
gle fire sprinkler. You can see the dra-
matic video at www.arvadafire.com.
Over 300 people enjoyed free hot
dogs, snow cones, face painting, and
more. Bicycle safety was demonstrated
through an obstacle course and we had
visits from our mascot Tower and Flight
for Life.
Mark your calendars for next year’s
Family Safety Day, scheduled for June
26 at the same location. !
17
Free Carbon Monoxide Alarms
The Arvada Fire Protection
District has received a grant
from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) to teach
a home safety course. This course will
be offered twice a month and will pro-
vide our residents with the best prac-
tices to stay safe in your homes. After
attending the course, a fire crew will
contact each household to install, free
of charge, a carbon monoxide (CO)
alarm complete with a ten-year lithium
battery, as well as a pair of stove top
fire extinguishers.
The CO alarm will provide each
home with protection from the dangers
of carbon monoxide poisoning and will
ensure that the home will
meet the requirements that
were set into law in July of
2009 with the passage of the
Lofgren and Johnson
Families Carbon Monoxide
Safety Act.
The stove top fire extin-
guishers will attach above
your stove and will activate if
a fire breaks out on your
stove top to extinguish the
fire before it has a chance to spread.
The one-hour class will be held at
AFPD Headquarters, 7903 Allison Way.
Call 303-424-3012 to register. The
class schedule for the next three months
is listed to the right.
December 17, 7:00 p.m.
December 19, 9:00 a.m.
January 17, 9:00 a.m.
January 18, 7:00 p.m.
February 18, 7:00 p.m.
February 20, 9:00 a.m. !
18
In 2007, roughly 84% of all deaths
that were the result of fires in
homes occurred where no residen-
tial sprinkler was in place. If you have
a fire in your home, your risk of dying
decreases by about 80% if you have a
residential sprinkler system in place.
These are some staggering numbers.
According to a report that was
recently published by the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA), an ordi-
nance that would require residential fire
sprinklers in all new home construction
does show huge benefits. In 1992,
Prince George’s County in Maryland
initiated a single-family dwelling fire
sprinkler ordinance. In the 15 years
from 1992 – 2007, there has been a sig-
nificant impact on life-safety and
reduction of property damage.
During the 15-year period, there
were 13,494 house fires with 101
deaths and 328 injuries in homes that
were not protected with fire sprinklers.
There were ZERO deaths in homes that
were protected by fire sprinklers. In
addition to that, the average property
damage dollar loss in unsprinklered
homes was ten times that of a sprin-
klered home.
There are several myths about fire
sprinklers that film and television pro-
ducers have exploited to add visuals to
their shows. The first myth is that if
one sprinkler activates, they all acti-
vate. This is false. Sprinklers are indi-
vidually activated by heat. The temper-
ature at that sprinkler head must reach
over 165 degrees. With that said, it is
also difficult to set off a sprinkler with
just a cigarette lighter.
continued on page 19
Do Home Fire Sprinklers Work?
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
The image above is a fire demonstration showing two rooms: one with no sprinkler and one with a sprinkler. The fire in the room on the right wasextinguished by the sprinkler immediately after the picture was taken. The image to the far right shows the room with a sprinkler, approximately three
minutes later, just before fire crews attacked the fire.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
19
Are YouPrepared foran Emergency?• Would you or your family mem-
bers know what to do in case ofan emergency?
• Would you have the proper provi-sions? Do you have an evacua-tion plan?
• What is a pandemic? What ifthere is a terrorist attack? Once an emergency strikes, it is
too late to plan! Being prepared cangive you peace of mind.
The Arvada Fire ProtectionDistrict offers the free CommunityEmergency Response Team (CERT)course which will answer all of theabove questions for you and more.CERT training will prepare you forwhat to do in case of a fire, terroristattack, snow storms that knock oututilities, etc. So it you want thepeace of mind of knowing what todo in case of an emergency visitwww.arvadafire.com, or e-mailCERT@arvadafire.com to sign up.
The AFPD recently recently grad-uated its first official CERT class. !
continued from page 9
Our firefighters and administrative
personnel will not receive a raise in 2010.
We also reduced the health insurance ben-
efits to keep the cost to the District the
same as in 2009. I want to take this
opportunity to thank our employees, espe-
cially the Local Firefighters Union, which
as always was great to work with and kept
the best interest of our citizens and the
Fire District in mind. In negotiating the
2010 union contract, the issue of a raise
was not even presented, as they under-
stand the District’s overall financial situa-
tion.
In 2010 we will be placing about
$300,000 in reserves to help balance our
2012 budget. We are expecting the 2011
numbers to be similar to 2010. This
means that for the years of 2009, 2010,
and 2011, our income will actually be
about 2% lower than 2008.
As this occurs, we have had a signifi-
cant increase in the demand for our serv-
ices and the cost of conducting business
continues to rise.
Because of the property assessment
process, we are expecting a significant
reduction in the 2012 budget from today’s
numbers—how significant, we have yet to
learn. The price for commercial property
is down about 20% from last year, and we
all know what has happened to the value
of residential property since June of 2008.
Why June of 2008? That is when the
assessment of property was completed for
2010. The assessment will occur in June
2010 for 2012. We are very concerned
about 2012 and beyond unless a dramatic
turnaround occurs in the real estate mar-
ket by June of 2010. There are no assess-
ments for the odd years, so those budgets
increase only by the value of new con-
struction, which has been very limited.
What this means is that through 2013 we
expect to be operating on less income
than we had in 2008.
I know I sound like an alarmist and
you are looking to see if the sky is falling.
The reality is that the Fire District will be
operating on very limited income for the
next four years and even then it will be
very difficult to ever fully recover.
Our revenue generating possibilities
are very limited. The District does not
have the ability to increase the fees that
we charge. We are a Fire Department. We
cannot add new charges for license plate
fees or raise the rates for water and sewer
to balance the budget. You can see why
we are concerned. We are constantly pur-
suing more cost-effective alternatives and
evaluating everything that we do to ensure
that those items on which we spend your
money further our goal of providing the
services that you expect. As we move
through these next few years, I will pro-
vide updates on the financial condition of
the Fire District on a regular basis to keep
you informed. Thanks again for allowing
us to be your Fire Department. !
Chief’s Letter
Fire Sprinklerscontinued from page 9
A second myth is that fire sprinklers willactivate if you burn popcorn in themicrowave. This is also false. As previouslymentioned, sprinklers are activated by heatand not smoke.
A third myth is that the water damagecaused by the sprinkler after the fire startswill be worse than the fire damage. This alsois false. If there are no sprinklers in place,the fire will double in size every 30 seconds.By the time someone calls 9-1-1 and there isa response by the fire department, the dam-age to the home may be extensive.Everything in the home will have smokedamage if it is not destroyed by the fire itself.Then you add the amount of water that thefire department will need to use to put outthis large fire and the damage is much moreextensive.
For more information, visit www.fire-sprinklerinitiative.org. !
Save a Life:Learn CPR
The Arvada Fire Protection District willhold a CPR certification class on Saturday,January 9, from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.The class will be held at the Arvada FireTraining Center, 6651 Indiana Street.
Your two-year certification will bethrough the American Safety & HealthInstitute (ASHI). Both beginners andrenewals take the same class. There willbe a practical test given at the end of theclass.
All classes will be limited to 20 stu-dents and will be filled on a first come,first served basis. The cost for the courseis $30. To sign up or for more information,call 303-424-3012. !
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
2010 Budget Adopted
On October 19, the Arvada City Councilapproved the City’s budget for 2010. Aportion of City Manager Craig Kocian’s
budget transmittal letter follows.
“My recommended budget for 2010 is dra-matically different from any other budget that Ihave submitted in my 12 years as Arvada CityManager.
Last August, in submitting the recommend-ed two year 2009 – 2010 budget, I stated that“we appear to be standing at the precipice ofvolatile economic times and an uncertain future,both locally and nationally.” At that time, thestock market had not yet suffered the meltdownthat occurred in late 2008. When you approvedthe 2009 – 2010 budget in October of 2008, wehad a clearer picture of the economic crisis andyou adopted the budget with the understandingthat circumstances in 2009 might force us to fur-ther reduce expenditures. I also assured you thatthe City had adequate reserves to maintain serv-ices and infrastructure during the two years ofthat recommended budget.
Today, we know that the revenues which weestimated for 2009 have not come to pass. Weknow that sales tax revenues are down byapproximately 4.5%.
It is during challenging times that the truemettle of an organization is shown, and I amproud to say that this organization has trulystepped up to the plate. Through the tremendousefforts of City staff, you are receiving a balancedoperating and capital budget for 2010 which rep-resents a significant shift in the way we do busi-ness as a municipal corporation, as well as howwe utilize our resources.
Through a constant monitoring of sales taxreceipts we acknowledged early on that wewould not meet our estimated revenues for 2009.Therefore, beginning in February, departmentsbegan voluntarily reducing expenditures. Aselective hiring freeze was put into place. Overthe next few months, departments went throughan exercise of “scrubbing” their line items tomake cuts wherever possible. The budget teambegan meeting regularly and conducted an in-depth analysis of internal service funds (comput-er replacement, vehicle maintenance andreplacement, building maintenance, and insur-ance). All of these steps have resulted in to-dateand committed year end reductions in the 2009budget of $1.1 million dollars.
Next, departments were requested to submitrevised 2010 budgets that presented 2%, 4%,and 5% cuts. Departments were also encour-aged to investigate changes in business practicesthat would result in overall savings to the organi-zation. To that end, the recommended 2010budget displays a dramatic shift in how we dobusiness, reflected by the elimination of 16.5positions that are the result of departments giv-ing serious thought to what is truly required tocontinue to provide quality services to the com-munity as well as to the organization.
The recommended 2010 budget also dis-plays what is intended to be a short-term shift inhow we utilize our reserves. Arvada’s history ofconservative budgeting and careful forecastingthrough the five-year modeling process hasserved us extremely well and has left us in theenviable position of having over $29 million intotal cash reserves at the beginning of 2009. Weare now estimating – very conservatively – thatthe General Fund will have cash reserves at thebeginning of 2010 of $24,240,884. Of this total$5,146,599 must be set aside to meet our 2010operating reserves of 8 percent. The 8 percent iscomprised of 5 percent required for TABOR and3 percent as the additional set aside per CityCouncil policy. This leaves a conservative bal-ance of $16,624,002 an unreserved cash in theGeneral Fund.
However, when forecasting expendituresversus revenues as conservatively as is our prac-tice, through the five-year model, at the end ofthat model given increasing expenditures inoperating and maintenance costs, salaries andbenefits, etc., our reserves are typically con-sumed at the end of that model. You also knowthat in years past, while our budget forecastinghas shown that we spend down reserves at theend of five years, we never actually have. Wehave benefited from unbudgeted economicgrowth, new retail, cost savings in areas such asunfilled positions, etc., leaving us not only witha healthy reserve but with “one time” funds thatwe have been able to utilize towards prioritizedcapital projects. What is so significantly differ-ent about the budget I recommend to you todayis that the City of Arvada will, in fact, spenddown our reserves by no more than $2.7 milliondollars in 2009 and an estimated $2.4 million in2010. The $2.4 million in 2010 does assumethat we will also dedicate an additional $900,000of our dollars to capital improvements. Position Eliminations
A total of 16.5 positions are being eliminat-ed from the City’s 2010 budget, including theEducation Manager at the Arvada Center, aStreets Equipment Operator, five RecordsSpecialists and one Records Supervisor in thePolice Department, a Landscape Architect, aDrafting Technician, and an AdministrativeSpecialist. Five of the 16.5 positions were notfilled. The decisions to eliminate these positionswere business related as opposed to being com-pelled by economic circumstances; in otherwords, they are eliminations which should havebeen made regardless of the City’s revenue situa-tion. For example, the six records positions inthe Police Department were eliminated due tochanging technology. The Police Departmenthas been analyzing changes in the way officerreports are transcribed for a number of years,and has determined that outsourcing transcrip-tion to a private firm will save significant dollarsto the general fund. In addition, voice transcrip-tion software is rapidly improving.
Operating and Maintenance Changes
Departments worked hard to eliminate othermajor costs to the organization, including thefollowing reductions: • No (0%) Salary Rate adjustment for 2010
for all employees. Eligible employees willcontinue to get step increases.
• Overtime costs were reduced by $48,000.• Travel and training was reduced by
$144,000.• Over $200,000 in supplies and clothing
expenses were eliminated. • Small equipment purchases were reduced by
$185,000.Employees understand that the reductions
offered this year were to be sustainable; thismeans that these reductions are permanent.Because of this operating condition, departmentsreduced very little in repair, maintenance materi-als, and other areas where the reduction might beclassified as a “deferral” and not a long termreduction.
It is a new way of doing things; there will beless money for any unknown challenge or spe-cial request, but we will be able to maintain thecurrent overall services the citizens of the City ofArvada has come to expect.
This leads us to the capital or infrastructureneeds of the City. This Budget recommends thatabove our debt service needs of $4.498 millionan additional $3.5 million be dedicated for gen-eral capital needs. This is above our Charterrequirement of 60% of one cent of sales tax – or$7 million. Funded projects will include:• General Streets Maintenance• General Parks Capital Maintenance• Ralston Road Corridor Study• Traffic Signal and Intersection Safety
Improvements• Irrigation Ditch Work• Median Improvements• Beeman and Broad Lake Parks
This budget continues a financial manage-ment plan which will ensure fiscal stability forour organization by thoroughly analyzing pres-ent trends and future issues, and extrapolatingthe results over the next five years. This budgetenables the municipal corporation to provide rea-sonable and appropriate services to our residents,businesses, and visitors, and remain fiscally sta-ble in the future. It is our goal to ensure not onlyfiscal stability, but citizen satisfaction with ourcontinued operations with the financial resourcesavailable.
Respectfully submitted,
Craig G. KocianCity Manager”
The 2010 City of Arvada budget may beviewed in its entirety at www.arvada.org.
20
19th Annual Colorado CowboyPoetry GatheringThis four-day roundup features some of
the world’s best-rhyming yarn-spinners,
sagebrush side-ticklers, yodelers, singers,
and western musi-
cians. Our January
2008 event will pay
tribute to Buck
Ramsey, who pro-
foundly influenced
the writing and
music of contempo-
rary Western per-
formers. Buck’s
widow, Bette, will be in attendance as we
honor his life, outstanding achievements,
and contributions to the art of cowboy
poetry. The program will also feature
over 30 poets and
musicians with the
current line-up
including Doris
Daley, Chuck Pyle,
Gary McMahan,
Cowboy Celtic, Jerry
Brooks, Jill Jones,
Liz Masterson,
Georgie Sicking, Milton Taylor, and
Andy Wilkinson.
January 10 - January 13, 2008
Children’s
Annual Chocolate Affair
Delightful chocolate experience with
award-winning chocolate therapist,
chocolate sampling, chocolate treas-
ure hunt, and chocolate cookie con-
test. Presented with Historic Olde
Town Arvada Association. Benefits a
non-profit organization. See more
information on page 25.February 6 in Olde Town Arvada
High Tea for Seniors
This celebration for citizens 90+
years young includes music, enter-
tainment, gifts, and stories of joyful-
ly lived lives. March 13 at the Egg ShellRestaurant
Arvada Kite FestivalA sky filled withfantastic flyingcreatures cele-brates NationalKite Month withflying contests,kids’ activities,musical enter-tainment, food,and vendors.Presented withFoothills Kite Club. April 10 at Robby Ferrufino Park
Arvada Trails Day
Festivities feature wildlife displays,environmental exhibits, hikes, andbike rides. Presented with MajesticView Nature Center, Arvada ParkAdvisory Committee, and TwoPonds National Wildlife Refuge.June 5 at Majestic View Nature
Center and Two Ponds National
Wildlife Refuge
Independence DayCelebrationCelebrate with
family fun,
music, kids’
activities, enter-
tainment, and
FIREWORKS.
Presented with
Apex Park and Recreation District
and KOOL 105.
July 4 at the Stenger Lutz Sports
Complex
Festival of ScarecrowsScarecrow con-
test, pumpkin
patch, kids’ cos-
tume parade, hay
wagon rides, and
a giant pumpkin
contest are fea-
tured at this Boo
Fest presented
with Historic Olde
Town Arvada Association. Benefits a
non-profit organization.
October 9 in Olde Town Arvada
Wines for the HolidaysWine TastingA presentation of
Front Range winer-
ies with food sam-
plings and silent
auction. Benefits a
non-profit organiza-
tion.
November at The
Egg Shell Restaurant (check
www.arvadafestivals.com for
dates)
The Arvada Festivals Commission is an organization of 20 Council-appointed Arvada volunteers who plan and produce seven diverse family-oriented events. Volunteers to help plan and
produce these events are always welcomed and appreciated. Come join the fun!
Celebrate in Arvada in 2010 with the Arvada Festivals Commission
For more information call 720-898-7400 or
log on to www.arvadafestivals.com.
21
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Majestic View Nature Center, provid-
ing environmental education and aware-
ness of our natural resources, is located at
7030 Garrison Street. Through May 1, the
Center is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, and
Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., as
well as during programs and special activi-
ties. Below are upcoming classes and
activities. Pre-registration is required; to
make reservations, call 720-898-7405.
Funding For School Field Trip
Programs
The Nature Center received a Tier III grant award for
the fifth year from the Scientific & Cultural Facilities
District. This award assists in funding the Elementary
Exploration Program, a K-6th grade science curricu-
lum in which the students learn environmental educa-
tion concepts throughout the 80-acre Park and Nature
Center facility. Examples of interactive stations that
complement Jeffco Science standards include the 3-
6th Grade topics; Incredible Insects, Mammals Study,
Wetland Experience, Prairie/Nature Trail and Exhibits.
Elementary Exploration also includes Pre-K-2nd grade
topics; Meet a Mammal, Amphibians & Reptiles, Birds,
Fish, Butterflies, My Five Senses, How do Plants Grow?
Elementary Exploration is offered weekdays in the
mornings and can
accommodate up to
65 students per pro-
gram. The cost is
$3.75 per student.
Call us for further
information and to
schedule a field trip
for your group.
Nature Adventures:
An Interactive Experience
Celebrate the natural wonders of the season with your
child through short hikes, hands-on activities, crafts,
and books. Dress for the weather as we will spend a
portion of each class outside. Taught by Dean Bernard,
Nature Center Specialist, and his dog Moxie. Ages 4 –
6 and parents.
• December 19, 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. No fee.
• January 16, 11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. No fee.
Animal Art and Awesome Activities
Learn about, and then use your artistic skills to discov-
er amazing creatures and make a great project to take
home. Ages 6 – 10.
• December 12, Gyotaku (Japanese fish printing).
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. $10
• January 10, Creatures of the Extreme. 10:00 a.m. –
12:00 p.m. $10
Mad Science Jeffco School Break
Day Camps at Majestic View
Mad Science strives to spark the imagination and
curiosity of children, providing them with fun, hands-
on, exciting activities that instill an understanding of
science and nature. Call Mad Science directly to regis-
ter at 303 403-0432 or visit their website at
www.madscience.tv. Ages 6 – 12.
• December 21 – 23: Funky Forensics, 9:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m., $169.
• December 28 – 30: Earth Awareness, 9:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m., $169.
Explore the Animal Kingdom
through Art
Artist David Sullivan teaches about different creatures
and helps you portray them artistically. Draw, paint,
sculpt, and use other fun are techniques to examine
and learn about the many living creatures that make
up the Animal Kingdom. Bring your healthy after-
school snack each time.
• Wednesdays, January 13 – March 17. 4:00 p.m. –
5:30 p.m. $90 for the ten week session.
Wild Costa Rica
Not many adventurers get to see a Quetzal, the spec-
tacular, rare classic bird of Costa Rica. See digital
images of the Quetzal high in the mountains in the
Cloud Forest. Active volcanoes, sloths, monkeys,
water birds, and jungle birds make up this awe-inspir-
ing rainforest. Presented by Bob Barber, professional
outdoor photographer and member of the Arvada
Park Advisory Committee. Ages 10 - adult.
• January 21, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. $3.
Jr. Duck Stamp Program
K-12 Students, call us to help you create and submit
your artwork as you participate in U.S. Fish and
Wildlife’s educational program and contest on water-
fowl and wetland conservation..
720-898-7405www.arvada.org/nature
7030 Garrison Street
22
23
Fine Art Market, ACES Sale Returns to theArvada Center
The popular Fine Art Market returns for the 23rd
year to the Arvada Center’s main gallery, featuring
original works—in a wide range of media, size, and
price—by more than 100 prominent artists from through-
out Colorado and the Western U.S.
The Arvada Center Eduction Studios (ACES) sale
will be held concurrently in the upper and theater lobby
galleries. Instructors and students from the Center’s
outstanding studio art classes offer an extensive selec-
tion of ceramics, sculpture, drawings, paintings, and
prints at irresistible prices!
Whether you seek distinctive hand-fashioned gifts
for those special people on your holiday shopping list
or something you will keep and cherish, the Fine Art
Market and ACES Sale offer truly extraordinary some-
things.
Opening Reception: December 11, 5:00 p.m. –
9:00 p.m.
December 12 – 20
• Monday – Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Sundays, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Arvadans Now Have Access to Prescription DrugDiscount Program
In today’s economic climate, the
high cost of some prescription
drugs can be a heavy burden, par-
ticularly to people without health
insurance or whose health insurance
does not cover prescription drugs.
Now, the City of Arvada, in part-
nership with the National League of
Cities and CVS Caremark, is making
available a Prescription Drug Discount
Program that can offer average savings
of 20% off the retail price of prescrip-
tion drugs. The Program is offered at
almost all chain pharmacies, as well as
some independent pharmacies,
throughout the United States.
There is no cost to sign up for the
Prescription Drug Discount Program.
Cards are currently available at Arvada
City Hall, the Arvada Community
Food Bank (8555 W. 57th Avenue), the
Apex Center (13150 W 72nd Avenue),
and other locations. Cards may also
be printed off of the program website
at http://www2.caremark.com/nlc/.
Program assistance is available at the
website or by calling toll-free 1-888-
620-1749.
The cards may be used by all
Arvada residents. There are no
restrictions based on the resident’s
age, income level, or existing health
coverage. The NLC card can be used
when purchasing prescription drugs
at participating pharmacies around
Arvada, as well as at more than
59,000 participating retail pharmacies
across the country.
The program is easy to use.
Residents simply need to show their
card when purchasing medication at
one of the many participating phar-
macies. There is no enrollment form
required to get a card, no member-
ship fee of any kind and City resi-
dents and their family members can
use the card any time their prescrip-
tions are not covered by insurance.
The discount card program is admin-
istered by CVS Caremark.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
There’s Lots Going On InOlde Town Arvada!
These two pages of The Arvada Report are forand about Historic Olde Town Arvada (HOTA).
Historic Olde Town Arvada
The Historic Olde Town Arvada’s sec-
tion of The Arvada Report is published by
the City of Arvada with content provided
by Historic Olde Town Arvada as a serv-
ice to the citizens of Arvada. The City of
Arvada is not responsible for the accuracy
of information contained in this section of
The Arvada Report.
Historic Olde Town Arvada
7307 Grandview Avenue • Arvada, CO 80002
303-420-6100
www.historicarvada.org
Neighborhood News
A Perfect HolidayGift: Purchase aBrick in OldeTown Square
Purchasing a brick in Olde
Town Square is a holiday gift
that is a part of history. Make
your mark on Olde Town with a
personalized memorial brick to be
permanently installed on the side-
walk in Olde Town Square. Not
only will you be a part of history,
but your purchase will contribute to
revitalizing our historic downtown
and building its future.
Meet Kaycee Edwards
The Historic Olde Town Arvada
association has announced its
newest staff member. Kaycee
Edwards has joined the team as
Marketing Coordinator.
Edwards has been brought on board
to handle promotion and marketing of
the downtown business district. She will
work in close collaboration with the
Main Street marketing committee volun-
teers, local business owners, and staff,
including Executive Director Jason
Dennison. “Kaycee will quickly become
an integral member of our team,” says
Dennison. “With Kaycee’s help, we plan
to launch a new branding campaign and
implement a marketing strategy by creat-
ing a downtown Arvada marketing
niche.” Edwards obtained her MBA from
the University of New Mexico and has
previously held marketing positions with
Sandi National Laboratories. She and her
husband recently relocated to Denver
from Albuquerque, New Mexico.
24
Downtown Arvada has undergone
significant change over the past
decade. Once known as a dilapi-
dated antique row, our historic buildings
are now home to award-winning restau-
rants, contemporary businesses, urban
residents, and well-respected places of
worship. Numerous residential, retail
and office projects have come on line to
create an increasingly vibrant urban envi-
ronment thanks to productive public and
private partnerships led by City of
Arvada, AURA, AEDA, and Historic
Olde Town Arvada (HOTA). A key trans-
portation project, the Gold Line, an elec-
tric commuter rail line from Denver
Union Station to the heart of Olde Town
is scheduled to reach Arvada in 2016.
To take advantage of this momen-
tum, the HOTA organization has recently
launched an outreach campaign called
Voices & Visions to gain input from
downtown stakeholders that will be used
to create and implement a strategic plan
for downtown Arvada. A community
survey and a series of focus groups are
being organized to gain valuable insight
from business and property owners, resi-
dents, and community groups as to what
makes downtown Arvada remarkable.
Information gathered will be assessed
and translated into areas of priority to
reach downtown Arvada’s full potential.
HOTA is also charging forward with
the release of the organization’s new
branding campaign, set for the first quar-
ter of 2010. In updating its name, logo,
color scheme, marketing materials, web-
site, and expanding downtown Arvada
boundaries, pertinent information will be
available in an even more comprehen-
sive, user-friendly format for business
and property owners, investors, residents
and community groups. For further
information, please contact HOTA staff at
303-420-6100.
It’s Chocolate Time in Olde TownCHOCOLATE IS CHEAPER THAN THERAPY, AND YOU DON’T NEED AN APPOINTMENT.
Special EventsHoliday Shopping Carriage RideIncluded
We invite you to experience the holi-day charm only historic downtownArvada can offer this season with familyand friends. Take a horse drawn carriageride (details below), and fulfill your holi-day shopping needs in our quaint bou-tiques and locally owned businesses. Weencourage Arvada residents to be smartthis holiday season and shop local fortheir holiday needs, as your sales tax dol-lars are reinvested in your community toprovide invaluable services. Invite yourfriends and family along and experienceArvada’s downtown business district.Horse Drawn Carriage Rides
December 11 and 18, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
W.57th Avenue and Olde Wadsworthin Olde Town Square/$10 per carriage ride.
25
5515 Olde Wadsworth Blvd.
Arvada, CO 80002
303-425-1111
www.downtowntoysandgames.com
Realizing the need for a contempo-
rary toy store to serve the com-
munity of
Arvada, Downtown
Toys and Games
came to be. A family
owned business,
Downtown Toys and
Games opened its
doors in November,
2008. Bob and
Ra’Chelle Fifer are
the owners, and
together with their
three boys Kyle, 12
and identical twins
Derrick and Chad age
2, they help to make
up a fifth generation
of Arvada residency. The store prides
itself first and foremost on family and
family values, and they pride themselves
on providing customers with high quality
customer service. If you can’t find what
you need, they will find it for you and
special order it right to your front door.
The store is open seven days a week:
Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m.
– 9:00 p.m, Saturday from 9:00 a.m. –
9:00 p.m., and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. –
6:00 p.m.
Featured Business
Bring your friends and family fora day of delicious chocolate ther-apy at the 10th annual Chocolate
Affair on Saturday, February 6, from11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., presented bythe Arvada Festivals Commission andHistoric Olde Town Arvada.
Sample chocolate for a good causeat the Taste of Chocolate featuringchocolatiers, bakers, and restaurants.Entrance fee is $1 per person or $5 forsix people. Tickets can be purchased atthe door for delicious taste treats ofchocolate-based food and drink. Over20 chocolatiers will share samples oftheir products. The proceeds benefitRalston House (see page 13 for moreinformation about this organization).
Visit over 20 Olde Town stores tocollect clues to compete in theChocolate Treasure Hunt. Teams or
individuals that gather all of the cluesqualify for prize drawings for largechocolate-enriched baskets of goodies.The competition is free, and manystores offer bites of chocolate to sustainyou in the search.
Colorado’s Chocolate Therapist andaward-winning author, Julie Pech,explains the multiple health benefits ofchocolate in three lively, free presenta-tions about how chocolate is good foryou!
Catch a free carriage ride and enjoya romantic ride around the charmingOlde Town historic district.
Enter your best chocolate cookies ordecorated chocolate cookies in theCreative Chocolate Cookie Contest.Cookie contestants may drop off cookiesamples (six cookies) at the ArvadaLibrary Community Room between
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Compete for
one of six prizes to be awarded.
To entertain little chocolate lovers,
the Arvada Library will host story-
telling throughout the festival in the
children’s area. Balloon tying and face
painting will be offered free to children
of all ages.
Usher in the month of love by
declaring your love on a giant Lamp
Post Heart! Purchase a personalized
heart for $25 from HOTA (call 303-
420-6100). Hearts will hang from
lampposts on Olde Wadsworth
Boulevard and Grandview Avenue.
For more information, to buy tickets
to the Taste of Chocolate, or to purchase
Lamp Post Hearts, call Historic Olde
Town Arvada at 303-420-6100.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
26
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Keep Your Water Pipes From Freezing
It’s that time of year again! Follow
these tips to prevent frozen water
pipes, as well as information about
how to thaw the pipes if they do freeze.
Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem
Water expands as it freezes. This
expansion puts tremendous pressure on
whatever is containing it, including metal
or plastic pipes. No matter the ‘strength’
of a container, expanding water can cause
pipes to rupture and break. Pipes that
freeze most frequently are those that are
exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose
bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water
sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in
unheated interior areas like basements and
crawl spaces, attics, garages or kitchen
cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior
walls with little or no insulation are also
subject to freezing.
Preventing Frozen Pipes
You can prevent freezing of water sup-
ply lines and pipes by following these rec-
ommendations:
• Drain water from swimming pool and
water sprinkler supply lines following
manufacturer’s or installer’s directions.
• Remove, drain, and carefully store all
hoses that are used outdoors.
• Both hot and cold water pipes in
unheated areas should be insulated. A
hot water supply line can freeze just as
easily as a cold water supply.
• Consider installing specific products
made to insulate water pipes like a
‘pipe sleeve’ or installing UL-listed
‘heat tape,’ ‘heat cable,’ or similar
materials on exposed or susceptible to
freezing water pipes.
During Very Cold Weather, Take
Preventive Action
• Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet
doors to allow warmer air to circulate
around the plumbing. Be sure to move
any harmful cleaners and household
chemicals up out of the reach of chil-
dren.
• When the weather is very cold outside,
let the cold water drip from the faucet
served by pipes that are susceptible to
freezing. Running water through the
pipe - even at a trickle - helps prevent
pipes from freezing because the tem-
perature of the water running through
them is above freezing.
• If you will be going away during cold
weather, leave the heat on in your
home set to a temperature no lower
than 55ºF.
To Thaw Frozen Pipes
If you turn on a faucet and only a
trickle comes out, first make sure your
main water valve is turned on. If it is on,
then you may have a frozen pipe. Locate
the frozen area of the water pipe: likely
places include pipes running against exte-
rior walls or where your water service
enters your home through the foundation.
• Keep the faucet open. As you treat the
frozen pipe and the frozen area begins
to melt, water will begin to flow
through the frozen area. Running
water through the pipe will help melt
more ice in the pipe.
• Apply heat to the frozen section of
pipe using an electric heating pad
wrapped around the pipe, electric hair
dryer, a portable space heater (kept
away from flammable materials), or
wrapping pipes with towels soaked in
hot water. Make sure electrical devices
do not come into contact with water.
• Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or
propane heater, charcoal stove, or other
open flame device. A blowtorch can
make water in a frozen pipe boil and
cause the pipe to explode. All open
flames in homes present a serious fire
danger, as well as a severe risk of
exposure to lethal carbon monoxide.
• Apply heat until full water pressure is
restored. If you are unable to locate
the frozen area, if the frozen area is not
accessible or if you cannot thaw the
pipe, call a licensed plumber.
Broken Pipes
• Check all other faucets in your home
to find out if you have additional
frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others
may freeze, too.
• Make sure you and your family knows
how to shut off the water in case a pipe
bursts.
• Call a licensed plumber to make the
necessary repairs.
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
27
August
11 Celebrate the Holidays in Olde
Town, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Carolers, sleigh rides, and Santa
(see page 25)
Fine Art Market, Arvada Center
Education Studios Sale
Arvada Center Galleries
14 Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
16 DRCOG Public Hearing regard-
ing the Jefferson Parkway
(see page 3)
17 Music with a View: Boulder
Philharmonic Chamber Players
Holiday Jazz, 7:00 p.m.
Arvada Center Galleries
18 Celebrate the Holidays in Olde
Town, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Carolers, sleigh rides, and Santa
(see page 25)
21 Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
22 Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
25 Christmas Day
Arvada City Hall Closed
January
1 New Year’s Day
Arvada City Hall Closed
4 Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
5 Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
11 Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
14 Music with a View: Mollie
O’Brien and Rich Moore,
7:00 p.m.
Arvada Center Galleries
20th annual Cowboy Poetry
Gathering, Arvada Center
(see page 32)
18 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Arvada City Hall Closed
19 Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
25 Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
28 Music with a View: Janet
Feder, 7:00 p.m.
Arvada Center Galleries
February
1 Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
2 Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
2 Premiere, A Man For All
Seasons
Arvada Center
6 A Chocolate Affair
Olde Town Arvada
(see page 25)
8 Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
15 Arvada City Council, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
16 Planning Commission, 6:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
22 Arvada City Council, 5:30 p.m.
Arvada City Hall
25 Music with a View: Boulder
Philharmonic Chamber Players
Mendelssohn String Quartet,
7:00 p.m.
Arvada Center Galleries
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Arvada Center: 6901 Wadsworth
Boulevard
Arvada City Hall: 8101 Ralston
Road
DRCOG: 1290 Broadway, Suite 700,
DenverFEBRUARY
JANUARY
DECEMBER
Dates subject to change.Confirm with appropriate agency.
12-20
14-17
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Invest in Arvada!
We are all investors in Arvada –
citizens, businesses, and their
employees. Like any stockholder of
a corporation, you expect a return
for your investment. The quality
and amount of return on that invest-
ment depends on many things: how
the investment is used, what prod-
ucts or services are funded, the quality of life you want now
and in the future, how much can be invested in your City serv-
ices…and the list goes on. During coming months you will be
increasingly informed of the return on your investment through
an “Invest in Arvada” campaign. If you are a citizen, you may
notice this symbol at your local stores. If you are a business,
you may use this symbol when trying to obtain products or
services from other Arvada companies. The bottom line is: The
investment you make in Arvada by patronizing local business-
es, retailers, restaurants, service providers, etc. will impact
your quality of life and/or ability to do business here. It will
affect the City’s ability to continue to offer top-notch services
that you have come to expect. INVEST IN ARVADA, TODAY
AND EVERY DAY!
Annual Business Appreciation Event
On October 14 more than 300 business and community
leaders gathered at the Arvada Center for the 15th Annual
Business Appreciation Event. The theme this year was
“Breakfast of Champions!” This annual event is designed to
recognize the valuable contributions of Arvada businesses to
our community, appreciate their community support and
involvement, and offer participants the opportunity to meet
new or renew business acquaintances. During the event the
Arvada Economic Development Association (AEDA) present-
ed 13 awards including the Lloyd J. King Entrepreneurial
Award, Community Spirit Award, and eleven 2009 Outstanding
Business Awards which were based on significant community
involvement, capital investment, increased employment, and
overall commitment to the community. Hereford Percy, AEDA
Business Retention Chairman emceed the event. Arvada
Mayor Bob Frie provided a City update and presented the
awards along with AEDA President, Steve Camins.
Jerry Marks, President of
Custom Environmental
Services, located at 8041 N.
I-70 Frontage Road, Suite 11,
received the prestigious Lloyd
J. King Entrepreneurial Spirit
Award. The Award was estab-
lished in 1998 to annually
honor an individual whose traits and character typify an exem-
plary entrepreneur. More than 11 years ago, Jerry, an Arvada
native, and three others came together to form Custom
Environmental Services (CES). CES is a “hands on” environ-
mental contractor and response cleanup team with a network of
over 1,500 subcontractors nationally. Jerry’s initial vision for
the company was to grow to 10–15 employees. Last year CES
was named in the “Top 100 Privately-Held Businesses in
Colorado” with gross revenues of $10.5 million, and they
added a national division to their business plan. Today, with 65
employees in two locations (Arvada and Colorado Springs)
CES does work around the country. Jerry is passionate about
his company, employees, and the community he lives in, and is
especially proud of, and dedicated to, his family. In fact, he
credits his wife, Jannell, as the reason he gets to do what he
does. Jerry personally gives back to the community as well. He
served nine years as a volunteer Arvada fireman and remains
actively involved by funding training courses. He is also active
in youth activities including Pomona High School band, athletic
programs, and supports the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless
and YMCA of the Rockies.
Harry Mathews, owner of
Vintage Sales, LLC, located at
5889 Lamar Street was hon-
ored with a surprise “2009
Community Spirit” Award for
the major contributions he has
made to the community
through consistent personal,
professional, and financial investment. Harry has been a valued
member of the AEDA Board of Directors for 15 years where
he has shared the exceptional knowledge he has gained through
years of entrepreneurial experience. He and his wife, Cris,
have been an important part of the Arvada Arts Community
since 1996, each year increasing their support which has
These four pages of The Arvada Report
are for and about Arvada businesses.
28
business link 2009
helped the Arvada Center to produce and sustain a variety of
quality arts experiences in our community. They have also sup-
ported educational programs in Arvada through multiple
events, including the many years of the Children’s Charity
Gala. They love to travel and have two children who also share
their love for the arts.
Eleven 2009 Outstanding Business Awards
3 Sons Italian
Restaurant, located at
14805 W. 64th Avenue, Unit
C, was recognized for locat-
ing the family-style restau-
rant to Arvada and for the
substantial investment made
in the construction of their new site. Michael and Susan
Scarafiotti have owned the restaurant since 2004. Their daugh-
ter, Anna, was also recognized as an integral part of the busi-
ness’ success. Michael noted that they had enjoyed success for
many years at their former Denver location, but had a dream of
fulfilling a need for a high-end restaurant in the ever-growing
western region of Arvada. They moved the restaurant in early
2008, and proudly serve many of the Scarafiotti family recipes
perfected over the years to new, and former, loyal customers
alike.
Beyond the
Blackboard, located at
7721 Wadsworth Boulevard,
Unit B, was created as a
grass roots family business
six years ago. Sisters Jean
Boylan and Jacqueline
Killian, built their business to fulfill a vision to provide inspi-
rational and educational supplies, games, and toys that would
help teachers “Renew, Inspire, and Teach” their students. Now
with two retail locations, one in Arvada’s Indian Tree Shopping
Center and one in Aurora, they offer a full range of educational
products designed to support teachers and caregivers, as well
as awaken the desire to learn in every child. Beyond the
Blackboard was honored for their extraordinary support of edu-
cators, as well as for substantial special offerings “beyond”
their retail sales business.
D-Note, located at 7519 Grandview
Avenue in Olde Town Arvada, has
become one of Arvada’s favorite spots to
dance, listen to great music, relax, and
just hang out. Owners Monica and
Matthew DeGraff set out with a mission
to bring people together to enjoy great
food and great live music in a fun and artful atmosphere. They
are pleased to be drawing crowds from all over the metro area,
as well as hosting bands from far away lands, and assisting
organizations with local and international aid efforts. Besides
their active participation in merchant organizations and Arvada
groups, the D-Note has raised more than $100,000 for various
charities by hosting and publicizing events, earning them this
special recognition for their support of community and benevo-
lent causes.
Faustson Tool, Inc.,
located at 6803 Joyce Street,
Suite A, opened in Arvada
26 years ago in an 80 square
foot facility with only one
milling machine and two
employees—owners Paul
and Alicia Svaldi. Today Faustson Tool has grown to include
both national and international markets. The company contin-
ues to be a pioneer in the machining industry, introducing the
Front Range to a variety of new precision machining technolo-
gies. Faustson’s reputation for innovation and exceptional qual-
ity has made the company suppliers to the defense, aeronautic,
medical, and aerospace industries. Faustson Tool was recog-
nized for its non-profit work in the community, the national
attention the company brings to Arvada, and for continued
growth and success in our community.
JēHN Engineering,
located at 5690 Webster
Street, was established in
1982 when Joe Jehn opened
his homegrown, family-ori-
ented, civil engineering and
land surveying company.
Recently, in spite of chal-
lenging economic times, that commitment was further cement-
ed at the opening of JēHN Engineering’s new state-of-the-art
building in Olde Town Arvada. JēHN Engineering brings glob-
al attention to Arvada with its numerous municipal and com-
mercial projects throughout North America, the South Pacific,
and Europe. Joe was recognized for JēHN Engineering’s sig-
nificant building investment which serves as a catalyst for local
business growth and for investing his time and talents in sever-
al key community boards and foundations.
PrimeStar Solar, located
at 14401 W. 65th Way, was
honored for its significant
investment in a new, modern
corporate headquarters and
solar module manufacturing
facility in Arvada, as well as
the addition of many new primary jobs to our community.
Globally focused, yet community minded since 2006,
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
29
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
PrimeStar Solar has been raising public
awareness and teaching others about the
benefits of their technology which
makes large scale, clean, renewable, cost
competitive solar electric power a reali-
ty. With additional facilities in Wheat
Ridge, CO and Montague, MI, and
strategic investment partners like
General Electric, PrimeStar’s solar prod-
ucts will be marketed to serve the
renewable energy needs of the world!
Sartorius
Mechatronics,
located at 6542
Fig Street, has a
130 year history in
Colorado, first as
the William
Ainsworth
Company, and
later as Denver Instrument. This
biotechnology and mechatronics
provider was acquired in 1998 by
Sartorius, a German group with sales
and holdings worldwide. Convinced that
Arvada’s prime location was the right
place to stay, the facility was expanded
from 25,000 to 65,000 square feet hous-
ing upgraded office space, expansive
shipping dock, and new production and
warehousing space. With over $4 mil-
lion in capital investment in 2008, and
job growth in 2009, Sartorius was rec-
ognized for its significant investment in
the community, the global recognition
brought to Arvada, and the many pri-
mary jobs in our community.
Sonsio, Inc.,
was also acknowl-
edged for its sub-
stantial investment
in the purchase of
a new corporate
building located at
5630 Ward Road,
and for the many
primary jobs brought to the Arvada
community. Founded in 1983, William
Jones created the first nationwide war-
ranty to be offered to the motoring pub-
lic, with Shell Oil as the first national
account. Now in its 25th year of busi-
ness, with second generation Michael
and David Jones at the helm, Sonsio has
built the largest network of servicing
dealers, supplying road hazard and
repair specific programs for over 79.5
million vehicles. Sonsio also contributes
to the community through serving on a
variety of boards and a CEO peer group
which helps others navigate today’s
unpredictable business landscape.
Sunflower
Farmers Market
satisfied requests
from citizens for
this type of busi-
ness by locating its
store to 7725
Wadsworth
Boulevard, and
received a warm welcome by its cus-
tomers when it did. Located in the
Indian Tree Shopping Center, the store
was recognized for re-energizing the
shopping center and neighborhood and
for the new jobs it brought to the com-
munity. Michael Gilliland and Elizabeth
Cook opened the first Sunflower in 2002
after stepping down from the Board of
Wild Oats. Their goal has always been
to provide a clean, accessible store, and
to offer the best quality food at the low-
est prices. Now, 25 stores strong,
Sunflower Market takes pride in being
active within each community in which
they are located, and strives to impact
those areas where it is needed most.
The Academy
Early Childhood
Education
Center, located at
6412 Fig Street, is
another home-
grown success
story recognized
for business
expansion and significant investment in
building a new state-of-the-art facility.
The Academy was founded in 1994 by
Arvada natives, Doug and Kathy
Konrad, and first opened at W. 64th
Avenue and Simms Street in Arvada. In
2001 they built their second facility in
Westminster. This year the Academy
relocated the Arvada facility to a new
building at W. 64th Avenue and Fig
Street. Offering high-quality preschool
and childcare programs to children from
12 months to 12 years, the Academy is
committed to building a strong academic
foundation for the over 300 children
served in the Arvada and Westminster
communities.
The
Community
Partner of the
Year award
was accepted
by Jefferson
County
Business Resource Center (JCBRC)
Executive Director Denise Stephens and
JCBRC Board President Steve Camins.
JCBRC, located at 1667 Cole Boulevard
Suite 400, was acknowledged as a val-
ued business partner for providing no-
or low-cost comprehensive services for
start-up and established businesses
throughout Jefferson County. The Center
opened its doors in June 2006 as a
501(c)3 organization and has assisted
nearly 1,100 business to date. Its mis-
sion continues to be to provide a one-
stop center offering centralized access to
resources which encourages the devel-
opment and growth of entrepreneurial
activity.
Employment Law
In October, Arvada hosted the annual
Employment Law Seminar. This event,
sponsored by AEDA, continues to grow
in attendance each year. Over 60 busi-
ness representatives for more than 35
companies attended. Back by popular
demand, Attorney Chuck Passaglia pro-
vided businesses with an update on cur-
rent legal issues, employment trends,
and related legislation. The seminar was
included as part of the Jefferson County
BES Series and available to all Jefferson
County businesses through a collabora-
tive partnership with all Jefferson
County municipalities, chambers of
commerce, Jefferson County Business
Resource Center (JCBRC), and others.
Businesses Education Series (BES) sem-
inars are offered each month featuring
different topics.
30
The Arvada Report December 2009/January 2010
Business Information
Arvada Chamber of Commerce will
host its Annual Dinner on January 22,
2010 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the
Arvada Center. Cost is $75 per person.
Check out www.arvadachamber.org or
call Dot at 303-424-0313 for more
information or reservations.
Be sure to check AEDA’s website
for current news regarding business
assistance programs – www.aeda.biz.
You will also find valuable information
at the State of Colorado’s website:
www.advancecolorado.com.
New Arvada Businesses
For a complete listing of Arvada
products and services offered by new
and existing businesses, go to
www.aeda.biz.
Archive Room Restaurant opened
at 5601 Olde Wadsworth Boulevard.
The owner also has the Pour House
Restaurant in LoDo.
Camaro’s Plus located to 5627
Kendall Court, Unit H.
Chase Bank is now open in the
Arvada Connection Shopping Center on
the northeast corner of W. 52nd Avenue
and Wadsworth Boulevard.
Clear Creek Endodontics opened
at 7375 W. 52nd Avenue, Suite 330.
Edible Arrangements located to
5324 Wadsworth Boulevard.
El Senor Sol Restaurant will open
soon at 6380 McIntyre Parkway (for-
mer Natural Harvest building).
Guild Mortgage Company is a
new mortgage broker at 5460 Ward
Road, Suite 300.
Jiffy’s located to 10370 W. 64th
Avenue and is now offering burritos,
specialty hot dogs, and much more.
Metals Treatment Technologies
located to 14045 W. 66th Avenue spe-
cializing in heavy metals treatment.
Nails Plus is a new salon at 6350
Sheridan, Suite 103A.
Premium Downspout Supply
opened at 5930 Ingalls Street.
Sylvan Learning Center opened at
5101 Kipling Street, Suite 300 in the
Arvada Ridge Shopping Center.
The Marketplace opened at 7523
Grandview Avenue specializing in chil-
dren’s clothing.
Udi’s at Grandview Restaurant
opened a bread, café, and pizzeria at
7600 Grandview Avenue #100 (south-
west corner of Olde Wadsworth
Boulevard and Grandview Avenue).
AEDA Works with Shopping Centers
Yes, Albertsons did close. But the
many businesses in the Arvada West
Town Center located at W. 64th Avenue
and Indiana Street are still open.
AEDA, along with partners from the
Arvada Chamber, JCBRC, and Arvada
Press, worked with the businesses in
that Center to facilitate a collaborative
marketing plan. The businesses are now
more proactively promoting themselves
and the Center so if you’re in the neigh-
borhood, check them out.
Businesses in the Safeway
Marketplace at Meadowlake Village
have come together to form a coalition
to promote their shopping center in
partnership with other local groups.
AEDA facilitated the initial meeting to
bring businesses together to begin plan-
ning a strategic marketing effort. Watch
for activities and promotions in that
Center.
If businesses within any shopping
center in Arvada would like assistance
with this approach to joint marketing,
contact the AEDA office at 720-898-
7010. All you need is a designated
“champion” for the Center who is
responsible for contacting businesses
within the shopping center area and a
commitment from most of the business-
es to participate in an informational
first meeting. AEDA will assist with the
initial meeting bringing ideas and
resources for the group. From there,
respective shopping center businesses
can determine what action they would
like to take.
Look no further!For holiday events, special gatherings, outstand-
ing gift items, services of all kinds, just look withinyour own community – you will find it! Arvadaenjoys a diverse mix of quality and unique retail
stores, dining venues throughout the community,and services offered. During the holiday season,please remember to thank your business neigh-
bors for the many ways they give back to thecommunity. We can create our own local stimulus
package by patronizing Arvada merchants andbusinesses. Do it today! Invest in Arvada!
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The Arvada Center–Treat Yourself to the Arts!To purchase tickets and for more information call 720-898-7200 or visitwww.arvadacenter.org
23rd Annual
Fine Art MarketShow & Sale
2nd Annual
ACES (Arvada Center Education Studios)
Works for Sale by Arvada Center Students andTheir Instructors
December 11 – 20, 2009Mon-Sat, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.; Sun, Noon – 5:00 p.m.; Free Admission
HONK! IS EXTENDEDTHROUGH THEHOLIDAYSDon’t miss this entertaining children’s tale!Honk! has an extended Holiday Schedule onselect days, December 19-January 3.For more information call the Box Office, 720-898-7200 or go online: www.arvadacenter.org
Book & Lyrics by Anthony DreweMusic by George StilesDirected by Billie McBride
This musical adaptation of Hans ChristianAndersen’s story The Ugly Duckling brings a con-temporary hipness to being “not as cool as every-one else.” This lavish song-and-dance version ofthe classic tale provides some hilarious insightsinto discovering that beauty lies within us.
Through Jan 3, 2010Weekday general admission tickets: $8Weekend reserved tickets: $10
Go online for more information:arvadacenter.org/on-stage/honk
Sponsored in part by
Additional Support provided by:John G. Duncan Charitable TrustKinder Morgan FoundationRalph and Florence Burgess TrustTarget Wells Fargo Foundation
Children’s Theater
Gallery Event
Music with aView
Mollie O’Brienand Rich MooreHailed as one of today’s best interpretivesingers of American pop, Mollie and her husband Rich Moore return to the ArvadaCenter to combine the intimacy of one voiceand one guitar in an eclectic presentation ofblues, vintage roots, and gorgeous ballads.
Thurs, Jan 14, 2010, 7:00 p.m.ArtTalk/ArtTour starts at 6:15 p.m.Tickets: General Admission - $10
On Stage
21st Annual
Colorado CowboyPoetry GatheringA Contemporary Expressionof Cowboy Life and Culture Thurs-Sun, Jan 14-17, 2010
Including: Baxter Black, Michael Martin Murphey, Sons of the San Joaquin, Wylie & The Wild Westand other cowboy poets and musicians. PlusDaytime Sessions of Music & Poetry
Evening Concert Packages (Thurs-Sat) 3 Evening Concerts Package - $125 for Prime & $100 for Value2 Evening Concerts Package - $90 for Prime & $75 for Value
On Stage
Wylie & The Wild West
PR SRT STDU.S. Postage
PAIDDenver, CO
Permit No. 1278
P.O. Box 8101 8101 Ralston Road
Arvada, Colorado 80001-8101
*****ECRWSSARVADA POSTAL PATRON
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Arvada Center Happenings
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