e-Talk in 10 May 2010
Saturday, May 1st, 2010e-Talk in 10
May 2010
From the office of Councilwoman Jeanne Robb
1232 E. Colfax Avenue, Denver, Colorado, 80218
303.377.1807
Jeanne.Robb@de
In This Issue:
-Cheesman Park Sunday Closing- May 2nd -
- Fifth Annual Denver Post Colorado Colfax Marathon -
- Zoning Code Moves Forward -
- Medical Marijuana ¨C
-Fillmore Plaza ¨C
-39th Annual CHUN Capitol Hill People¡¯s Fair ¨C
-Denver Census 2010-
-District 10 welcomes new aide-
-Denver Justice Center Update-
-Installation of ¡®halo¡¯ Security Cameras along Colfax-
-Follow Up on East 1st Avenue Improvements-
-Colfax Streetcar Feasibility Study-
-Pulaski Park Playground Update-
- Biking in Denver-
-Denver Parks Quenching Their Thirst-
-Ross-Cherry Creek Branch Library- Reopen! New and Improved!-
-Gas Line Replacement Programs in District 10-
-Comcast Analog to Digital Conversion (World of More)
-Fees Waived at Denver Rec Centers and Swimming Pools-
-Denver Water Update-
-High Water Safety Tips-
-Economic Stimulus Funds Available for Private Hiring in Denver-
-Morey Neighborhood Center: Classes Beginning Soon-
-Reminders-
- Upcoming Events -
- City Council Meetings and News ¨C
- Upcoming Events Calendar ¨C
Cheesman Park Sunday Closings- 1st closing on May 2nd
In partnership with my office the Cheesman Park Advocacy Group (CPAG) and Denver Parks and Recreation, I am pleased to announce the five Cheesman Park auto-free dates for summer 2010. To provide greater predictability and increase public use, Cheesman Park roads will be closed to automobile traffic the first Sunday of each month May through September. I encourage you, your family and friends to come and enjoy a safe, peaceful day in the park. On May 2, June 6, July 4, August 1, and September 5, Cheesman Park roads will be closed from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm to enhance the pedestrian and biking experience in the park. On July 4, the Cheesman Park roads will be reopened at 3 pm to allow vehicular access for watching fireworks from the park.
Other summer activities include:
* Denver Parks and Recreation ¡°Movie in the Park¡± date(s) to be determined
* 4th Annual Independence Day Cheesman Park Kids Parade, Sunday, July 4, 9AM ¨C 12 PM
* Denver Municipal Band on August 27th
Cheesman Park Advocacy Group is looking for volunteers and donations to help with this year¡¯s Cheesman Park 4th of July Kids Parade. Volunteer events would include bike decorating with kids, helping with set-up and break-down, helping at information booths, handing out water, directing people, and any other overall help needed the day of event. We want the day to be fun for everyone, including volunteers, so the more the merrier! Please contact Marilyn Kal-Hagan if you are interested in volunteering: 303-694-6721 or mkalhagan@me.com
If you would like to make a donation of any amount, that would help make the event even more successful. Checks can be made payable to CPAG & sent to CPAG, PO Box 300368, Denver, CO 80203.
Fifth Annual Denver Post Colorado Colfax Marathon May 16
You¡¯ve provided great support for the Colfax Marathon the past four years. Some of you have run, some of you walked the half marathon with me, and some of you have cheered the wheelchair athletes and runners on or volunteered at my water station last year. I need volunteers for the Robb/Madison water station to be located at 17th and Harrison. If you want to share in this fun, slightly chilly, inspiring, crazy early morning experience (hmm, costumes welcome!), please RESPOND IMMEDIATELY to Nora Kimball (nora.kimball@denvergov.org
Come celebrate with Denver, Aurora and Lakewood on Sunday, May 16, 2010 for the fifth annual Kaiser Permanente Colfax Marathon. This is an important event that celebrates the revitalization of America¡¯s longest continuous street ¡ª Colfax Avenue.
It is not too late to join in the fun! Gather a team of five friends and get ready to run! Teams from across Colorado and around the country will be flocking to Denver for one of the most exciting Relay Marathon events in the country! Join great teams like ¡°Feets Don¡¯t Fail Me Now¡±, ¡°Urban Sneakers¡±, ¡°Agony of Da-Feet¡±, ¡°She-Wolves in Spandex¡±, and the ¡°What was I thinking?¡± as they Run for the health of it! Get your team together and share in the excitement of the Colfax Marathon! Start building your team by clicking here
* Leg 1: 3.8 miles
* Leg 2: 5.8 miles
* Leg 3: 6.6 miles
* Leg 4: 4.6 miles
* Leg 5: 5.4 miles
Or if you are Interested in those longer distances - Run the marathon or half-marathon.
The Colfax Marathon wants YOU! For those who want to participate but aren’t up to running, The Colfax Marathon wants YOU! There are plenty of volunteer opportunities, so come join the fun! We especially need intersection supervisors. Volunteer on your own or gather a group and work together. To volunteer, follow the steps to register online:
* Go to www.coloradocolfaxmarathon.org
* Click Volunteers.
The route in 2010 will begin and end in beautiful City Park. The course highlights interesting historic sites along Colfax and, of course, views of the majestic Rocky Mountains.
A half-mile or quarter-mile fun run/walk event will be held in conjunction with the marathon on Saturday, May 15, 2010 for children. Registration is at 8 am and the fun runs begin after the Kids Run America marathon mile at 10 am.
In January 2010, the 3rd Annual Charity Partners Program was launched. Charity partners are nonprofit organizations that use the visibility and event management platform of the Colfax Marathon as a tool to fundraise for their own purposes.
There will be some local traffic impacts and various street closures on Sunday, May 16 to allow for participant safety as they follow the route. The Marathon is working closely with police and traffic managers in Aurora, Denver, and Lakewood to minimize the inconveniences and keep traffic flow as steady as possible. Please keep in mind that travel restrictions will begin at 6:00 am with north and south bound intersections that cross Colfax being closely managed. Race security will allow traffic through as much as distance gaps between runners will allow. Drivers seeking to cross Colfax during the event are encouraged to seek alternate routes to avoid delays. Race organizers anticipate Colfax between Colorado and Broadway to re-open after 7 am. All streets will be reopened by noon.
Below is the timing schedule of the runners and walkers at various District 10 cross-street locations so that you can go out and cheer and anticipate road closures.
* Full Marathon participants start in City Park at 6:00 am and head towards Colfax Avenue. They return into City Park at Harrison St. to do an additional two miles before returning to westbound Colfax:
o Colfax and Harrison between 6:08 and 7:22 am.
o Colfax and Gaylord between 6:22 and 6:55 am.
o Colfax and Clarkson between 6:29 and 7:10 am.
o Colfax and Broadway at the State Capitol between 6:31 and 7:15 am.
o Colfax and Speer between 6:33 and 7:30 am they then continue down Colfax into Lakewood to Simms, go around Sloane¡¯s Lake and then back through downtown Denver and up 17th Avenue.
o Half-Marathon participants will be at Colfax and Esplanade between 6:45 and 7:00 am and then they continue up Colfax into Aurora to Fitzsimons Medical Center and then return on 17th Avenue back to the finish at City Park
The Kaiser Permanente Colfax Marathon is a wonderful way to celebrate one of our city¡¯s unique assets. To sign up as a marathon or half-marathon participant, register a relay team, volunteer, or to learn more about the race, visit www.coloradocolfaxmarathon.org
Zoning Code Moves Forward
After five hours of testimony by the public, the Planning Board forwarded its recommendation of adoption of the new zoning code to City Council on April 21st. On April 28th, City Council¡¯s Blueprint Denver Committee moved the new zoning code out of Committee for consideration by the full Council although Community Planning & Development will be returning to the committee with some final provisions.
First reading at City Council of the proposed zoning code ordinance is scheduled for May 24th with a public hearing & final consideration of the proposed ordinance adopting the new code to be held on June 21st.
Coverage of both the Planning Board Public Hearing as well as the Blueprint Denver meeting are available through Denver 8 as Video on Demand at www.denvergov.org
Medical Marijuana
Most of us are still adjusting to the concept of medical marijuana dispensaries cropping up in our community. In 2000, Colorado voters enacted a constitutional amendment legalizing the use of marijuana for specific medical conditions. Doctors are required to certify that those conditions exist and that a patient¡¯s conditions would be eased through the use of marijuana. The amendment also specified that caregivers would supply the marijuana. Last summer, the Colorado Department of Health changed the number of patients that a caregiver could serve, thus making the medical marijuana dispensary model a viable retail option. In November, the City of Denver began collecting sales tax from dispensaries selling marijuana. In January, City Council passed an ordinance to regulating such dispensaries and requiring licensing beginning March 1, 2010. My view was that Council needed to get regulation in place quickly because it was uncertain if and how soon the State Legislature would act.
To date, Denver Excise and License has received 269 applications for medical marijuana licenses, issued 15 licenses, and denied 18. The latter were mostly denied for locations in residential zone districts. One hundred and eleven are in the inspection stages from other agencies like the Fire Department and Community Planning and Development to meet these agencies¡¯ other requirements. Excise and Licenses reviews the application last and measures for the distance requirements from schools, child care centers, and each other.
It takes a considerable amount of time to review applications, but Penny May, Director of Excise and License, did not believe that additional staffing would help expedite the process, due to timing issues with other agencies. Due process allows applicants to remain open while licensure is determined and during any appeal process. Ms. May noted that most applications were completed correctly and most applicants are not delaying the inspection process.
I asked Director May to provide a regular report on the status of applications in their Districts to Councilmembers. When our office receives this information, we will post it on my website.
Fillmore Plaza Update
Discussions about the future of Fillmore Plaza continue. And I continue to listen actively both to comments I receive by e-mail or phone and at public meetings like the two hosted by the Cherry Creek North Neighborhood Association in April. (To see the results of the vote, visit the CCNNA website, go to http://ccnneighbors.com/
39th Annual CHUN Capitol Hill People¡¯s Fair, Needs Volunteers
Come and join your neighbors on June 5 and 6 in Civic Center at the CHUN Capitol Hill People¡¯s Fair. Admission is free and the hours are Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm and Sunday 10 am to 7 pm.
The CHUN Capitol Hill People’s Fair exists as a celebration of the diverse Denver urban community and its residents. As Colorado’s Premier Arts and Crafts Festival, the uniqueness and magic of CHUN’s Capitol Hill People’s Fair is created by the careful blending of great family fun, carefully selected handmade arts & crafts, delicious culinary delights, fabulous entertainment and the commitment to raise funds for and promote the missions of non-profit organizations.
The 39th Annual CHUN Capitol Hill People¡¯s Fair needs volunteers! The People¡¯s Fair could not happen without the dedicated volunteers! Here are a few of the areas for which they need volunteers:
* Information Booth/Souvenirs
* GREEN Team
* Site Set-up/Tear Down
* Spirit Team
* Volunteer Check In/Hospitality
* Fair Ambassador
* Exhibitor Hospitality
* Entertainment
http://chundenver.org/display_page.asp?site_id=5&page_id=149&m=1&pid=186
To join the People’s Fair Green Team, please contact Michal at 303-830-1651 or michaloleksy@chundenver.org
Denver Census 2010
Currently Denver has a 73% participation rate, compared to the State’s participation rate of 70%. These numbers reflect the number returned through mail with a bar code on the envelope, and do not reflect the number that has been collected at Questionnaire Assistance Centers.
After May 1, Census takers are going to start going door-to-door to collect information from households which have not returned their forms or didn’t receive forms. The main message we’d like your help conveying to residents is to provide the Census takers with the necessary information.
Census takers will carry an official identification badge and bag and will never ask for money or bank account information. If you have questions if a Census taker is really with the US Census Bureau, call 1-800-852-6159.
There are other ways in which residents can provide their information to the US Census Bureau, but because of this late date these residents will still receive a visit from a Census taker. Cooperating with a Census taker is the preferred method to provide the information because there will be less duplication, resulting in a cost-savings to the taxpayer. However, residents may still mail back their Census questionnaires or provide their information by calling the following numbers:
English: 1-866-872-6868
Chinese: 1-866-935-2010
Korean: 1-866-955-2010
Russian: 1-866-965-2010
Spanish: 1-866-928-2010
Vietnamese: 1-866-945-2010
TDD (Telephone Display Device for the hearing impaired): 1-866-783-2010
Denver residents may continue to call 3-1-1 or visit any Denver Public Library if they have further questions or concerns.
District 10 is pleased to announce our new aide!
We are pleased to have a new council aide in District 10! When you see her please welcome Emily Liff who will be working three days a week in the office ¨C and out at meetings. Emily is a recent political science and anthropology double major from the University of Colorado- Boulder. She interned and worked part-time for Councilman-at-Large Dough Linkhart before joining our office. She joins the ¡°distinguished¡± group of young Denver leaders who have ¡°cut their teeth¡± and grown to love public service and our great city in the Council District 10 office.
Denver Justice Center Update
This month we celebrated the opening of the VanCise-Simonet Detention Center ¨C the first part of the Denver Justice Center to open. For many Golden Triangle and Capitol Hill neighbors, this was a culmination of years of commitment to building a world-class justice center in Denver¡¯s Civic Center. Thank you to all of you who worked so long and so hard. A new Justice Center Operations committee to oversee the smooth operation of the facility met for the first time last week. It is comprised of representatives from the Denver Sheriffs Department, Public Works, the Courts, the Mayor¡¯s Office and the neighborhoods. The official dates for operations to begin include May 24th for the arraignment courts in the Detention Center and May 3 for the temporary certificate of occupancy. One thousand inmates will move to the facility after that in the first two weeks of May. We expect the courts to move right after the 4th of July. More information on the opening of the Lindsey-Flanagan Court House and Tooley Plaza will follow next month.
Installation of ¡®halo¡¯ Security Cameras along Colfax
Colfax is now a safer place to be in part thanks to the installation of ¡®Halo¡¯ security cameras that are being installed along Upper Colfax (Grant to Josephine). This comes as a result of the new relationship between the Colfax Business Improvement District (CBID) and the Denver Police Department. This relationship marks a significant investment in the retail, office and residential development along Denver¡¯s historic main street.
On April 20th, CBID Board members gave a check for $180,000 to Councilwoman Robb and Denver Police Lt. Martinez to finance the installation of these security cameras. The addition of the ¡®Halo¡¯ cameras, an upcoming streetscape program and the current streetcar feasibility study all reinforce an ongoing commitment to Upper Colfax.
Here is a list of where the ¡®halo¡¯ cameras will be located. This list was based on current the location of current non-halo cameras being monitored by DPD, Calls for Service, Density of Reported Crimes, DPD Analysis, Halo Monitoring Team¡¯s input based on current coverage or lack of coverage in high volume areas.
1) Emerson and Colfax
2) Logan and Colfax
3) Pennsylvania and Colfax
4) Pearl and Colfax
5) Downing and Colfax
6) Washington and Colfax
7) Ogden and Colfax
8) Clarkson and Colfax
Once we find the additional funding:
9) Corona and Colfax
10) Marion and Colfax
11) Lafayette and Colfax
12) Grant and Colfax
Follow up on East 1st Avenue Improvement
The 1st Avenue Improvement Study meeting took place at the beginning of April. After much discussion along with candid feedback and comments from the participants, the Policy & Planning Department of Public Works tried to capture everyone¡¯s thoughts and include them in the project narrative. They are working to finish that document so that there will be a detailed record of the process, the different alternatives that have been considered, and the outstanding issues that remain. This narrative will be posted on the Public Works website once it is completed.
The updated concept drawings are available NOW on the 1st Avenue Improvement Study website along with an updated PPT presentation. Please scroll to the bottom of the page for the links to each drawing.
http://www.denvergov.org/Infrastructure/1stAvenueSteeletoColoradoStudy/tabid/435012/Default.aspx
These drawings do not suggest that a consensus has been reached on a concept moving forward. While there is certainly additional work to do as Policy and Planning look at these concepts from an engineering and feasibility perspective, it is also clear that there are differing philosophical opinions about the future of 1st Avenue that need to be resolved. However, this process has been a successful exercise in furthering the conversation and giving merit to all ideas and concerns on the table. The ultimate design should balance the needs of pedestrians, drivers, transit users, cyclists, businesses and residents so that 1st Avenue can be a dynamic complement to the Cherry Creek urban center in terms of both mobility and personality.
Colfax Streetcar Feasibility Study
After the recent final Task Force meeting to determine the viability of moving forward with the development of a modern streetcar along the Colfax corridor, it¡¯s great to report that the recommendation is to move to the next step of doing an Alternatives Analysis which would look to the actual building of a streetcar line from the Auraria Campus to the Denver-Aurora border. However, such an Alternatives Analysis would cost nearly $500,000 that amount of money is not likely to come soon from Denver city fund dollars. So we will continue to look for community advocates and support.
The study clearly delineated that the transit ridership on Colfax would increase and that the operational/maintenance costs of a streetcar would be more economical than local bus service in the long run. For more information, click here: http://www.denvergov.org/ColfaxStreetcarFeasibilityStudy/tabid/435130/Default.aspxs
Full funding for this ambitious project would be a major challenge but there are options, ranging from sales and/or property taxes, parking meters, special districts, and even some suggestions of using some DMV fees in support of this effort. Undoubtedly, multiple funding sources would be needed including public and private resources. And, while our present transit system on Colfax ¨C the 15 & 15L ¨C serves an awful lot of riders, the anticipated growth on the corridor in years to come make a compelling case for a better way to travel. Only then could we achieve the stated goals of:
* enhance mobility in the corridor
* improve sustainable transportation options
* Enhance and promote economic development in the corridor.
Stay tuned!
Pulaski Park Playground Update
Pulaski Park is located at the intersection of South Madison Street and East Bayaud Avenue in Denver. The park is located in close proximity to Cherry Creek, which inspired the theme ¡°Follow Cherry Creek¡±. With the goal of creating a playground for children of all ages and abilities, the new play areas includes informal play areas and new play structures that develop a child¡¯s imagination, physical and social skills.
Other site improvements include a new accessible concrete walkway into the playground, a small plaza for gathering, picnic tables, benches and bike racks. The playground includes two play pits, one for intermediate play and one for tot play. The intermediate play pit features a large play structure, spinners and belt swings. The tot play pit includes a tot structure with slide, swings and spring riders. In addition, a sand play area has been incorporated and each play pit includes ADA accessible surfacing and ramps.
New trees and shrub beds are included in the new playground design, as well as an adjusted and modified irrigation system to efficiently irrigate new sod, trees and planting beds.
Construction should be completed within the next couple of weeks. Construction fencing may be up for an additional week after construction is done to allow the sod to establish. Pending weather, the playground should be open by the beginning part of May.
Biking in Denver!
Despite the dreary weather, the Denver Bike Sharing program was launched on Thursday April 22nd. Bike sharing is a new way of getting around and the Mile High City will never be the same. Pick up a bike at any of the conveniently located bike-sharing stations and drop it off when you¡¯re done. It¡¯s affordable, clean and simple. Good for your health, your pocketbook, our environment and our community.
The bike-sharing stations in Denver¡¯s downtown and nearby neighborhoods (including Cherry Creek and DU campus) provides around 500 shared bikes to be used. Depending on the success of the first year, Denver Bike Sharing plans to launch an additional 400 bikes with accompanying stations in 2011. Click here to download the latest map
* 13th & Pearl
* 11th & Broadway
* 9th & Downing
* Denver Botanic Gardens
* 3rd & Columbine
* 3rd & Milwaukee
* Cherry Creek Mall
* Ellsworth & Madison
* Denver Public Library (post-launch installation)
To register for membership visit http://denver.bcycle.com
NEW 2010 DENVER BIKE MAPS AVAILABLE NOW!
Pick up a FREE updated Denver Bike Map today and get ready to ride!
The 2010 Denver Bike Map not only shows the best ways to maneuver the City by bike, but also features updated information on bike lanes, marked shared lanes, bike routes and multi-use trails. The map also includes tips for sharing the road when biking on Denver City streets and how best to avoid injuries when bicycling, specifically in ¡°The Door Zone,¡± the area along the side of a parked car where an opening door can hit and injure a cyclist. Instructions regarding hand signals and new bike laws are illustrated on the map, and a section of the map is dedicated to understanding how to use RTD Bike-n-Ride and Bike-on-Light Rail.
Pick up a free copy of the 2010 Denver Bike Map today at our office and at the following locations: Please visit www.DenverMovesBikes.com
DENVER RECREATION CENTERS
DENVER CITY COUNCIL OFFICES
BIKE DENVER
BikeDenver
1536 Wynkoop Street
Suite 801
Denver, CO 80202
PARTICIPATING DENVER BIKE SHOPS
Turin Bicycle Ltd
Bicycle Doctor/Edgeworks
Salvagetti Bicycle Workshop
Denver Spoke
Campus Cycles
Cherry Creek Bike Rack
Singletrack Factory
Cycle Analyst
Greentree Cyclery
The Bike Source
Collins’ Bicycles
Mojo Wheels
Denver Bicycle
Westside Cycling
Fly Bike Shop
On Stop Bike Shop
Park Hill Bike Depot
Velosoul Bicycles
Bicycle Village
Denver Parks Quenching Their Thirst
Improvements to irrigation systems bring efficiencies and savings
Residents will see a lot of activity in Denver parks this summer, but not all of it will be related to recreation. A total of nine irrigation projects are currently under construction, nearly one third of the 37 irrigation projects being funded by the Better Denver Bond Program. This will complement the 16 already completed by Denver Parks and Recreation. Another 12 are in the design phase and six of those will begin construction this summer.
The $17 million project to improve irrigation in the parks is estimated to save up to 247 acre feet of water and up to $192,000 annually based on the current water rates. The goal is to reduce water usage to 15-18 gallons of water per square foot. In parks with the most outdated infrastructure, this represents a savings of 27 percent in addition to reduced labor and repair costs.
¡°Although there will be some disruption to the parks, we believe this is a short-term loss for a long-term gain,¡± said Kevin Patterson, Manager of Denver Parks and Recreation. ¡°We are investing in our parks, our City and our environment by addressing our antiquated irrigation systems.¡±
Parks affected in District 10
* Alamo Placita Park Irrigation (scheduled to be completed in 2010)
* Cheesman Park Irrigation (scheduled to be completed in 2011)
* Speer Blvd Irrigation (scheduled to be completed in 2010)
* Congress Park (scheduled to be completed in 2010)
For more information about these irrigation improvement projects, visit the Denver Parks and Recreation website at http://www.denvergov.org/Default.aspx?alias=www.denvergov.org/parksandrecreation
Ross-Cherry Creek Branch Library- Reopen! New and Improved!
As part of the Better Denver Bond program, renovations on the Ross- Cherry Creek Branch Library are complete! Replacements and upgrades to several buildings will provide a more comfortable, convenient, safe and efficient environment for library goers.
Join in the celebration of the reopening of the Ross-Cherry Creek branch Library. Located at 305 Milwaukee St at E. 3rd Ave, the celebration will occur on May 19 from 5:30pm-7pm. This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments and entertainment will be provided!
For more information about the program, please visit Denver Public Library Online at: http://denverlibrary.org/bond/creek.html
Ross-Cherry Creek Branch Library Service Hours
Tuesday, Wednesday: Noon - 8 p.m.
Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday, Thursday, Sunday, closed
Address: 305 Milwaukee St. at E. 3rd Ave. (80206)
Telephone: 720-865-0120
Website: http://denverlibrary.org/locations_hours/branches/creek.html
Gas Line Replacement Programs in District 10
Over the next several years, Xcel Energy is replacing 600 linear miles of gas pipe line throughout Colorado. Nearly 100 linear miles are in the Denver metro area.
Gas line replacement projects have begun throughout District 10. The general hours of construction are 7:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Friday. Parking along these streets and on side streets may be limited and driveways may need to be blocked for short periods of time.
Project Locations in District 10
Xcel has contracted with NPL Construction Company for the following projects and a NPL representative is available 24/7 at 303-434-8517 to discuss any concerns or to answer any questions about the following projects:
* Humboldt Street from East 14th Avenue to East Colfax
* Humboldt Street from East 12th Avenue to East 13th Avenue
* East 11th Avenue from Lafayette Street to Humboldt Street.
* East Colfax Avenue from Grant Street to Pennsylvania Street.
Xcel Energy has contracted with Q3 Contracting for the following projects and a Q3 representative is available 24/7 at 303-996-3544 to discuss any concerns or to answer any questions about the following projects:
* Sherman Street, Grant Street, Logan Street and Washington Street from approximately East 4th Avenue to East Center Avenue
* East 7th Avenue and East 5th Avenue from Sherman Street to Downing Street
* Logan Street and Washington Street from East 8th Avenue to East 2nd Avenue.
If you have concerns, someone is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-800-895-4999. You also can follow the progress of this project online at www.xcelenergy.com
Comcast Analog to Digital Conversion (World of More)
The Comcast analog to digital conversion will take place on June 7, 2010 for customers in the City and County of Denver. This conversion will result in greater capabilities for Comcast to expand and enhance its services to customers, including the delivery of more high-definition channels, more ethnic and sports channels, more Video-On-Demand content and faster internet.
This change will affect Comcast customers who subscribe to standard or digital cable and have a TV connected to the company¡¯s service without a digital box i.e. the cable cord is plugged directly into the wall. To ease this transition, Comcast will provide affected customers with up to 3 free digital devices to connect to their television sets. However, customers who subscribe to the most basic tier of service (which includes broadcast channels and public access, education and government channels) will not be affected as those channels will still be provided in analog format. In other words, those customers will not need a digital converter.
After June 7, 2010, customers without existing or updated digital equipment that tune into an upgraded channel will see a message notifying them that the digital equipment is required to view this channel, and instructions on how to obtain equipment, either through self-install kits, or a technician will visit their the home for free. Once equipment is installed, customers will continue to see their channels on the same channel numbers that they are accustomed to using.
The Colorado transition is scheduled for completion by the end of 2010. The effort is expected to be fully implemented nationwide in 2011.
For more information about Comcast¡¯s digital transition or to order equipment, customers are encouraged to visit www.comcast.com/digitalnow
Fees Waived at Rec Centers and Swimming Pools
Great news for Denver¡¯s Youth who will once again have free access to City recreation centers and swimming this summer. This is being made possible by a generous grant from Kaiser Permanente. ¡°In this tough economy, parents can¡¯t always afford to send their kids to the pool. By supporting the free admission program, we¡®re giving all Denver children the opportunity to be active and enjoy the outdoors,¡± said Donna Lynne, DrPH, President, Kaiser Permanente Colorado.
Open to Denver youth ages 17 and younger, recreation centers and pools will be free from June 4 through Aug. 14. This is the second year that Kaiser Permanente has supported the free summer recreation program. Standard fees will continue to apply for programs and activities that typically are offered at an additional charge.
District 10 Youth can enjoy this free access at the Congress Park Swimming Pool.
Denver Water Update
Denver Water¡¯s engineers have been busy designing new recycled water facilities that will extend service to more customers and provide new service to parks and school grounds in the Capitol Hill area.
Although recycled water facilities are available in the Capitol Hill area, customers have not been able to receive recycled water because of low water pressure. In coordination with customers in that area, Denver Water has started designing a major pump station that will provide recycled water at a higher pressure to large irrigators in the area. The design is expected to be complete in fall 2010 and construction will begin shortly thereafter. Customers are expected to begin receiving recycled water in spring 2012.
High Water Safety Tips
Due to the weather and a recent release of water from Cherry Creek Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, water levels at several areas along the Cherry Creek Bike Path are at or over the bike path. Residents should expect water levels in Cherry Creek to remain high throughout the week-end.
Denver Parks and Recreation remind people of trail safety during these rainstorms:
Safety tips for walking or cycling on urban trails:
* When rain is falling, it¡¯s best not to walk or bike near a river or stream, even on Denver¡¯s paved urban bike and walking trails; water flow can quickly increase and flooding can occur without notice.
* Never take shelter in a culvert or in an enclosed space, especially in low elevations by rivers and streams. Always go to higher ground out of the flow of water.
* Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can cause a person to fall.
* If lightning is present, do not stand under or near an isolated tree or group of trees.
* Never allow children to play around streams, drainage ditches or viaducts, storm drains or flooded areas.
* To report significant flooding issues in Denver, please call 3-1-1. For all emergencies, please call 9-1-1.
Economic Stimulus Funds Available for Private Hiring in Denver
Wage subsidies available for metro Denver businesses through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
The Denver Office of Economic Development (OED) now has wage subsidy funding for Metro Denver businesses to hire new employees. The program is made available through the City¡¯s allocation of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act workforce development funding.
Job candidates come from a pool of dislocated employees seeking employment in a new industry. Most candidates have capable and transferable customer service, administrative, retail, or general office skills. The program offers up to 100% of a new hire¡¯s wages to be subsidized for a period of up to six months. Subsidies for individual positions cannot exceed $8,000.
To be considered for the program, a business must be located in Colorado for at least 120 days, pay into workers¡¯ compensation and unemployment insurance, and have not laid off employees within the past two months. Subsidies are only available for full-time positions that provide at least 32 hours of work per week.
The office has subsidy funds remaining to expend by June 30, 2010. To apply for the program, businesses must submit an interest questionnaire online at www.milehigh.com
Morey Neighborhood Center: Classes Beginning Soon
Fitness facility is open Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:00 pm ¨C 7:30 pm, and includes an indoor pool, two gyms, weight room and indoor running track. No membership required. Adults $3 per visit, Seniors $2 per visit, Youth $1 per visit.
Morey Neighborhood Center is located at 14th and Emerson Streets (inside Morey Middle School), phone (720) 424-0791, email moreyneighborhoodcenter@dpsk12.org
Morey Neighborhood Center also offers swimming lessons at National Jewish Medical Center, 1400 Jackson St. (Colfax and Colorado). Summer swim sessions are just beginning. Session 1 is Saturdays, May 22 ¨C June 26 (registration starts May 4) and Session 2 is Saturdays, July 10 ¨C August 7 (registration starts June 15). Classes include preschool, beginner, intermediate, parent-child, advanced, and masters classes. Visit http://mnc.dpsk12.org/
Reminder: Booting
Booting: The Public Works Department and our office want to remind you that boot and tow fines in Denver have increased. Effective April 1, 2010, the fees for receiving a parking boot and tow will be increased from $50 to $100 each. These fees have not been increased for 21 years. A vehicle may receive a boot after it has accumulated three unpaid parking tickets. If the boot fee and the outstanding citations are not paid, the vehicle will be towed after 72 hours. These fines apply to all boots issued by Right Of Way Enforcement and all tows requested by Right Of Way Enforcement.
Upcoming Events
* Botanic Bow Wow, Saturday May 22nd
Denver Botanic Gardens is premiering a new kind of event, geared toward “man¡¯s best friend” and their owners. This dog-centric affair features pet-friendly vendors, informational booths and enough treat stations to keep tails wagging throughout the day! Additional activities at the Botanic Bow Wow will include Dog Contests (Best Trick, Best Dog Owner Look-alike and more) as well as a ¡°How to Create a Beautiful, Pet-Friendly Yard¡± seminar and opportunities to pose for the ¡°Puppy Cam¡± This family-friendly event will take place on Saturday May 22nd from 9am- 1pm. The festivities will be located on top of the Parking Complex at the Botanic Gardens, 1007 York Street. Ticket prices range from $2-$5 and members and neighbors of the garden receive a discount.
Join other dogs and dog owners to play, socialize and enjoy the weather as the season transitions from spring to summer! For more information about the Botanic Bow Wow visit http://www.botanicgardens.org/content/botanic-bow-wow
* Conference to help HOAs thrive, May 5th
Homeowners Associates have a positive and constructive presence in our community. However, the volunteer nature of HOAs can make it easier for them to fall victim to embezzlement and other acts of fraud. The Rocky Mountain chapter of the Community Associations Institute is hosting a conference and tradeshow intended to make HOAs flourish and further the great work that is already being done. The conference is designed to educate HOA managers, volunteer board members and homeowners on a variety of topics including how to prevent HOA fraud, understand legislation that impacts HOAs as well as how to budget HOA money during a recession and much more.
When and Where? The conference will take place on May 5th at Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum which is located at 7711 E. Academy Blvd in Denver. There is a $70 registration fee which includes breakfast and lunch. To register or for more information call 303-951-4973 or visit www.hoa-colorado.org. (NEED LINK)
* 7th Annual Tellerpalooza Saturday, May 15 beginning at 4:00 pm at The Mercury Caf¨¦, 2199 California Street. Conceived in 2004 by music©\loving Teller Elementary parents, Tellerpalooza has grown into the southeast Denver elementary school¡¯s biggest fundraiser. Visit http://teller.dpsk12.org/Tellerpalooza/Tellerpalooza6
* 12th Annual Downtown Denver Festival of the Arts May 28-31 Nothing paints a better picture of fun than a festival filled with more than 150 of Colorado¡¯s most esteemed artists. This popular art event formally known as the Colorado Arts Festival will showcase paintings, sculpture, photography, glasswork, woodwork and more. Because each artist will be on-site, visitors also have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with the creators of the works on display at the Denver Pavilions. If you have questions, visit www.downtowndenverartsfestival.com
* 16th Annual ¡°Spring into Health,¡± Thursday May 13 from 9am-1pm at the Denver Zoo. This event showcases fitness and wellness programs available throughout the City. Visitors can experience fitness options through the Fitness Safari, a walk through the grounds of Denver Zoo where participants can experience different fitness options from beginning aerobics through advanced classes such as Zumba and Tai Chi. Tickets may be purchased in advance for the discount price of $8 at any Denver Recreation Center and include access to resource fair and Denver Zoo admission. Tickets purchased at the gate the day of the event pay the full zoo admission price of $12.
* Memorial Day Parade, Saturday May 29 from 10:00am-Noon
Amongst the high spirits and barbecues, it is often easy to forget the true purpose of Memorial Day. It is important to remember that it pays homage to the fallen soldiers and veterans of wars past and present. The public is invited to attend the annual Memorial Day Parade. The Parade is sponsored by the Denver United Veteran¡¯s Council with support from the Denver County Veteran Services Office
Where: Near Civic Center Park–Parade marchers assemble near Civic Center Park at Bannock St. and Cherokee St. between Colfax and 14th Ave. The public can view the parade along 14th St. to Court Pl., to 15th St. and Welton St., east to 17th St., south on Broadway to 14th Ave. The location of the review stand is between Colfax and 14th Ave. on Broadway.
City Council Meetings and News
City Council meets every Monday at 5:30 at the City and County building (14th and Bannock St., 4th Floor, Room 451). Sign up for the speaker¡¯s list starts at 5:30pm. The hearings take place after first reading and the exact time depends on where the bill is listed on the agenda.
Upcoming Events Calendar
A “Meetings of Neighborhood Interest” calendar has been added to the “Residents” page on www.denvergov.org. Click here
DAY
EVENT
TIME
PLACE
Sun
May 2
Cheesman Park Auto Free Day
5 am - 6 pm
Cheesman Park
Mon
May 3
City Council Weekly Meeting
5:30 pm
City Council Chambers, City and County building
14th and Bannock St., 4th Floor, Room 451
Tues
May 4
Mile High Teachers Recognition
4 pm - 5:30 pm
Ellie Caulkins Opera House
DCPA
Tues
May 4
Colorado Runners Hall of Fame
5 pm - 8 pm
Denver Athletic Club
Tues
May 4
1st Tuesday on the Fax
5:30 pm -
7 pm
Mataam Fez, 4609 E. Colfax
Tues
May 4
Annual Alamo Placita Neighborhood Meeting
7 pm - 9 pm
Denver Community of Christ Church
480 Marion St
Thurs
May 6
District 3 Police meeting for Neighborhood Groups
6 - 7:30 pm
1625 S. University Blvd
Sat
May 8th
Botanic Gardens Plant Sale
10 am
1005 York St.
Mon
May 10
City Council Weekly Meeting
5:30 pm
City Council Chambers, City and County building
14th and Bannock St., 4th Floor, Room 451
Tues
May 11
CBID Board Meeting
10 am -11 am
Alta Court
Room 108
1490 Lafayette
Wed
May 12
Cherry Creek Area Plan Coordination Team Meeting
5:30 pm ¨C 7 pm
Daniels Fund Building
101 Monroe
Wed
May 12
Happy on the Hill
5:30 pm ¨C 7 pm
TBD
Thurs May 13
Parks and Rec Advisory Board Meeting
6 pm - 7 pm
Webb Building, 201 W. Colfax
4.G.6
Sat
May 15
Teller Pallooza
4 pm - 8pm
Mercury Caf¨¦
2199 California Street
Sun
May 16
Colfax Marathon
Colfax Closed
much of the morning
Colfax Avenue
Mon
May 17
City Council Weekly Meeting
5:30 pm
City Council Chambers, City and County building
14th and Bannock St., 4th Floor, Room 451
Mon
May 17
Mayfair Neighbors Wine Tasting
5:30 pm ¨C 8 pm
Solera Restaurant
Tues May 18
Neighbors and Friends for Cheesman park
5:30 pm - 7 pm
1201 Williams St
Top floor meeting room
Wed
May 19
Cherry Creek Steering Committee
5:30 pm-7:30 pm
Daniel Funds Building
101 Monroe
Wed
May 19
Renovations Celebration of CCN library
5:30 pm - 7 pm
Milwaukee and 3rd
Thurs
May 20
Golden Triangle Third Thursday
5 pm - 7pm
TBD
Thurs
May 20
Cheery Creek East Neighborhood Association Meeting (Regarding Fillmore Plaza)
5:30 pm - 7 pm
Fillmore Plaza- Open office Space Area, East Side
Mon
May 24
City Council Weekly Meeting
5:30 pm
City Council Chambers, City and County building
14th and Bannock St., 4th Floor, Room 451
Tues
May 25
Alamo Placita Neighborhood Association Monthly Happy Hour
5 pm - 7 pm
TBD
Thurs
May 27
Cheesman park Advisory Group Meeting
5:30 pm - 7 pm
Tears McFarland
13th and Williams
Fri
May 28
City Furlough Day ¨C City Offices Closed
Mon
May 31
Memorial Day- City Offices Closed, NO City Council this week
Tues
June 1
First Tuesday on the Fax
5:30 pm - 7 pm
TBD
Thurs
June 3
District 3 Police Meeting for Neighborhood Groups
6 pm - 7: 30 pm
1621 S. Colorado Blvd
Sat
June 5th
Denver Art Museum
SCFD Free Day
Sun
June 6
Cheesman Park Auto Free Day
5 am ¨C 6 pm
Cheesman Park
This electronic newsletter was prepared by Councilwoman Robb and her staff in her office on city computers. Therefore, it was paid for by taxpayer dollars.
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