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Denver De-Brucing on November Ballot
In addition to the presidential, Congressional, and state legislative races, Denver City Council has placed on the November ballot for voter approval a measure to permanently and completely "de-Bruce" Denver. "De-Brucing" refers to Douglas Bruce, the author of TABOR. TABOR is the state constitutional amendment that was rejected by Denver voters but passed statewide in 1992. TABOR established state-mandated revenue and expenditure caps on all governments throughout Colorado. While most cities in Colorado have already De-Bruced, Denver has not yet done so. If the Denver De-Brucing measure is approved, Denver will be able to keep roughly $60 million it is already approved to raise through existing tax rates. The de-Brucing measure does not authorize any tax increase, and all future tax increases must still be approved by voters. The measure also specifies the five key areas where the additional revenue must be spent: police and fire; street repairs; parks maintenance; public libraries; and programs for children and youth. |
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DPS Mill Levy & Bond Initiatives Informational Meeting
Denver Public Schools has put 2 initiatives on the November 6 ballot for voter approval.
- A mill-levy override that would raise $49 million annually to be invested in strengthening DPS educational programs, and to close gaps caused by cuts in state funding for education.
- A bond initiative that would authorize DPS to issue $466 million in long term bonds to fund school building maintenance, renovations, technology upgrades, and new school construction projects. (This bond package includes the complete renovation of Byers Jr. High and the placement of the Denver School of Science & Technology there.)
Want to know more? Come to an informational meeting:
Friday, September 7, 11-noon
MiCasa Resource Center, 360 Acoma
RSVP to Gully.Stanford@cic.state.co.us. |
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Polling Places Set for November 6th General Election
Do you like to cast your vote in person? Not sure where to do that? If you are a registered voter, look for an informational post card in your mailbox in early October. It will tell you where your polling place is as well as other important voting information. If you are not a registered voter and would like to be, visit www.DenverVotes.org. |
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U.S. Presidential Debate at D.U. - Learn More at University Neighbors Annual Meeting
On the national level, The University of Denver is hosting the first of three presidential debates between President Barack Obama and republican candidate Mitt Romney, on Wednesday, Oct. 3, in Magness Arena. Quite apart from its national significance, this event will have a significant impact on the neighborhood. Come to the University Neighbors annual meeting on September 20th at Christ Lutheran Church (Yale and Franklin) to find out more. Click here for a list of road closures. |
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Recycle More and Learn Something New
Looking for something new to do? Denver Recycles offers three great opportunities to recycle more, learn something new, and help your community be more green:
- Attend a "Learn to Compost" class and start your own backyard composting pile. Register now at www.Dug.org/Compost or by calling 720-865-6810.
- Join the Denver Recycles Action Network (DRAN) and exercise your volunteer muscles. You'll gain the knowledge you need to be an effective advocate for Denver Recycles and you'll meet other committed recyclers in Denver with whom you can share your ideas and experiences. Space is still available in the October 22, 2011 DRAN training class. Sign up online at Denver Recycles or call 720-865-681.
- Check out the Denver Recycles online "Recycling Directory" to find local drop-off options for recycling various materials not taken in the purple carts. The Recycling Directory contains listings of where you can recycle scrap metal, car batteries, motor oil, cell phones, toner cartridges, sneakers, clothing, construction material, tires, mattresses and more. Click here to visit the Recycling Directory.
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Recycle Your Old Clothing
You can also do your part by recycling your old clothing. Did you know that 85% of all clothing winds up in the landfill? Instead of adding to the trash heap, you can give those old jeans a new life and get rewarded to boot.
- Donate to a charity like Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Donated clothes that are in good condition help raise funds for the charity and clothe people in need. Items not suitable for reuse can be "de-manufactured" into new materials such as cleaning rags, car insulation, seat stuffing, and even paper. Reward: write the donation off and save a few dollars on your tax return.
- Ask your favorite retailer if they recycle. The Gap and Patagonia both do along with hundreds of others. Reward: bonus points on future purchases.
- Sell them to a consignment shop or vintage store. Reward: a few extra bucks in your pocket and a cleaner closet.
The ultimate reward comes from minimizing the many polluting and energy-intensive processes needed when manufacturing textiles from raw materials. Unlike virgin materials, recycled textiles don't need to be re-dyed or scoured and require much less water to process the fibers into their final form. Visit Denver Recycles for more information and a list of local options for donating clothing. |
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RTD Service Changes
Another great way to reduce pollution is to ride public transportation. But don't forget, the Regional Transpiration District (RTD) makes changes to bus and light rail schedules three times a year to enhance service and facilitate better connections between bus, lightrail, and specialty services across our communities. The service changes are based on traffic pattern studies, ridership, economic factors, and community feedback. Avoid missing your bus or train by reviewing the new schedules here. |
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Annual South Platte River Sweep - September 29
It's time for all hands on deck to help make Denver's South Platte River a little cleaner for the community. The annual South Platte River Sweep is happening once again. This will be the 20th consecutive year for this collaborative 15 mile multi-jurisdictional cleanup. The event is open to individuals, companies, schools, clubs, and neighborhood groups. Rally your friends and co-workers and join in on the fun!
Annual South Platte River Sweep
September 29, 8am - noon
Confluence Park
Click here for more information. |
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New Shade Shelter at Huston Lake Park
Have you seen the nifty shade shelter at Huston Lake Park yet? If not, go check it out. Denver is part of an international project to study the use of shade in U.S. and Australian city parks. Curious to know more? The goals of the project are outlined here. In short, Denver Parks & Rec's partnership with Klein Buendel, Inc. will enable the installation of sail style shade structures in several Denver parks each year for the next three years. The shade sails come at no cost and will provide the benefit of much needed protection from Colorado's intense sun. District 7 is lucky to be included in the first group of installations. Visit other shade shelters this summer at Sunken Gardens, Mayfair Park,
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School is Back in Session! Be Aware of Parking Restrictions
New teachers, new friends, new clothes, and books...it's back to School season in Denver! With new routines and the changes each school year brings, parking restrictions are likely the last thing on parents' minds. Denver Public Works reminds parents to read the posted parking signs to avoid a parking citation. Two of the most popular overlooked parking restrictions around schools are street sweeping and bus lane restrictions. To avoid a ticket, make sure to look for the red and white signs and marked bus lanes next time you drop your kids off at school or attend a meeting or event.
If you do receive a parking citation: You may Pay-by-Phone at 1-866-280-9988, Pay-by-Web at www.DenverPVB.com, or pay in person at the Webb Building at 201 W. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80202 at the Parking Cashier Counter. |
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End of Summer Youth Guide
School might be back in session, but summer is not over yet. Click here for a brochure that lists free or nearly free things for kids to do for the remainder of the summer - including recreation, cultural facilities, camps, discounted dining, movies, and more! |
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Pet Vaccination and Clinics in the Parks - Sept 8 & 9
It's not too late to get your pet vaccinated and licensed -- but the clock is ticking. The Denver Animal Shelter and Parks & Recreation have teamed up to extend summer vaccination clinics in response to increased incidents of rabies found in Denver area wildlife. Protect your pet from this deadly virus by having them vaccinated at one of the sites below.
September 8: Denver Animal Shelter, 1241 W. Bayaud Ave., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
September 9: Fred Thompson Park, 26th Ave. & Roslyn St., 11 a.m. to 1.p.m.
City Park Pavilion, 17th Avenue & University Blvd,, 2 to 4 p.m.
Take advantage of these great bargains:
$35 - includes rabies vaccination, parvo/distemper combo, and a one-year pet license.
$55 - includes rabies vaccination, parvo/distemper combo, and a three-year pet license.
Click here for more information or call 311.
If you can't make it, the Denver Animal Shelter (1241 W. Bayaud Avenue) hosts pet vaccination clinics Saturdays at the shelter from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Remember: Denver law requires all cats and dogs over 6 months to be licensed and vaccinated. Licenses can be obtained or renewed online. |
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Public Input Sought to Help Create Denver's "Be Healthy Denver" Plan
What are the primary health issues facing Denver residents? "Be Healthy Denver," Denver's comprehensive effort to create a five-year "Community Health Improvement Plan" (CHIP), will host a series of public meetings beginning in September to gather input on the city's health priorities.
"Be Healthy Denver" is a joint effort between Denver Environmental Health (DEH) and Denver Public Health (DPH). In March 2012, "Be Healthy Denver " completed a community health assessment (Health of Denver 2011 Report) and is now looking for public input that will be used in the plan, scheduled to be complete by mid-2013.
In an effort to gather a diverse range of input, community meetings are scheduled in six areas of the city, including two dual English and Spanish meetings. Kids activities and informational booths will begin approximately one hour prior to each meeting. Light refreshments will be provided:
Sept. 22 - Rachel B Noel Middle School, 5290 Kittredge St.
Meeting at 3:30 p.m., activities open at 2:30 p.m.
Sept. 26 - Skinner Middle School, 3435 W. 40th Ave. (English/Spanish)
(Childcare available)
Meeting at 5:30 p.m., activities open at 4:30 p.m.
Oct. 5 - Morey Middle School, 840 E. 14th Ave. (Childcare available)
Meeting at 6 p.m., activities open at 5 p.m.
Oct. 6 - Merrill Middle School, 1551 S. Monroe St.
Meeting at 10:30 a.m. activities open at 9:30 a.m.
Oct. 11 - Smiley Middle School, 2540 Holly St. (Childcare available)
Meeting at 5:30 p.m., activities open at 4:30 p.m.
Oct. 13 - Abraham Lincoln High School, 2285 South Federal Blvd. (English/Spanish)Meeting at 11:30 a.m., activities open at 10:30 a.m.
Childcare is provided for meeting attendees at locations specified above. To take advantage of childcare, RSVP to Michele.Shimomura@DenverGov.org. To learn more about Be Healthy Denver, Denver's community health improvement plan, or to provide input, visit www.BeHealthyDenver.org.
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Excise and License Wants to Hear From You!
The dedicated folks at Excise and Licenses would like to invite everyone to participate in their new "Open Forum" meetings. These meetings will offer an informal opportunity for residents and RNOs to meet with the Excise and License Director and staff to discuss neighborhood issues.
The meetings will be held every other month on the fourth Monday, from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, in the Excise and License hearing room, on the second floor of the Webb Building, 201 W. Colfax Ave. The first meeting is set for Monday, September 24, 2012 at 4:00pm. Click below if you are interested in reviewing the following materials:
Have questions? Come get them answered on September 24th. We look forward to seeing you! |
Gas Line Replacement Work in Your Neighborhood
Over the next several years, Xcel Energy is slated to replace 600 miles of gas pipeline throughout Colorado. Nearly 100 miles are in the Denver metro area, including the area listed below in District 7.
- Navajo Street between Virginia Avenue and Alaska Place
This replacement will result in continued reliable gas service for current and new customers. Construction may include work along side and adjacent streets. The project started in mid-August and should be completed by late September, weather permitting. Construction typically occurs from 8 am to 5 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. You can follow this project online at
. Click on the "About Us" tab in the upper left-right corner, choose "Our Company," and "Projects & RFPs," and "Accelerated Gas Main Replacement Program." If you would like to get email updates on this project or have questions, contact InfoColorado@XcelEnergy.com or call 303-294-2456. |
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Project Homeless Connect
September 25 & 26, various shift times available
Colorado Convention Center, 14th and Curtis
Project Homeless Connect (PHC) is a "one-stop shop" for assistance to help people who are struggling and are in need of basic services. During the past eleven events, PHC has provided assistance for over 7,000 people experiencing homelessness or those at-risk of becoming homeless. PHC events provide individuals and families currently experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless with access to vital services such as basic health care, legal services, veteran services, food stamps, IDs/birth certificates, haircuts, massages, and so much more.
If you have any questions please email DenversRoadHome@DenverGov.org or click here to register. |
New Loan Program Helps Offset Cost of Energy Efficiency Improvements
The summer of 2012 will go down as one of the hottest on record for the Denver area. And while the triple digit temperature streak seems to have subsided, many are still reeling from the energy bills from months of running old, inefficient air conditioning units. Those looking to reduce those energy bills now have a new option for financing energy efficient improvements.
Beginning Aug. 8th the "Denver Energy Challenge" is teaming up with Elevations Credit Union to offer new lowcost energy loans for Denver residents and businesses.
What makes this loan unique from other home/business improvement loans? Some of the benefits include:
· Lower Interest Rates - Loan loss reserves provided by the Department of Energy (DOE) grant offers the ability to provide lower interest rates (no risk premium required).
· Easy Application Process - A simple online or phone application process makes it quick and easy to apply. On average, the application takes only 10 - 15 minutes to complete.
· Appraisal Not Required - Unlike other home or business loans, a property appraisal is not required.
· Energy Advisor Helps Guide Efficiency Improvements - Energy advisor service comes with this loan, independent of any contractor or company offering a loan.
· Easy Payment Process That Allows Work Begin Immediately - Loans are based on contractor quotes and payment is made jointly to the borrower and contractor, ensuring the work can begin before payment.
The "Denver Energy Challenge" is a free energy program provided by the City and County of Denver to help residents and businesses cut energy waste, while saving money and increasing indoor comfort and air quality. Free energy advisors are provided along with access to exclusive rebates and financing when you sign up. Energy loans have been made possible through a revolving loan fund from the U.S. Department of Energy Better Buildings Program. Call 720-865-5520 today to speak with an advisor and see what options are available for your home or business. For more information, visit www.DenverEnergy.org.
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Heat Wave Help
If you are having trouble with your summer utility bills or need help paying for appliance repairs, another great resource to contact is "Heat Wave Help." The program runs until October 31st and assists people financially when no other organization is able to assist. Qualifying households can receive up to $200 for utility costs, or up to $1,000 for heating or cooking appliance repairs including fans. Before you complete the application, please call 1-866-HEAT-HELP to see if you qualify. For more details visit www.DenverGov.org/HeatWaveHelp. |
Citizen Oversight Board Seeks New Members!
Are you interested in how the City handles fire, safety, and law enforcement issues? Join the Citizen Oversight board. You will have the opportunity to make policy-level recommendations regarding discipline, use of force, hiring rules, training procedures, community relations, and the complaint process. This is a four-year obligation that begins immediately upon appointment. The Board meets in the morning on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month and conducts quarterly public meetings that are televised on Channel 8. To apply you must be a Denver resident. City employees and family members of city employees are not eligible. For further information, please contact Anthony Aragon, Director, Boards & Commissions, 720-865-9034. The official application deadline is Sept 7th. |
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West Washington Park's Famous Home Tour - September 15
This year's tour "West Side Stories - Stepping Through Time" packs a double punch: great homes and a rare look inside Byers Jr. High, future home of the Denver School of Science and Technology. All the action will be centered at Byers Jr. High, located at 150 South Pearl St., with ample parking, a silent auction, and representatives from DPS and DSST to answer your questions. This is your chance not only to see a beloved historic neighborhood asset and some of the nicest homes in Denver, but also to help raise money for important neighborhood anchors like the Washington Street Community Center, The Washington Park Neighborhood Association, and Lincoln Elementary. Plan on making a day of it.
Additionally, if you are a local business, artisan, or other local organization, participating in the tour is a great way to gain exposure to hundreds of neighborhood residents. Want to know more? Find them on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/WestWashParkHomeTour2012 or contact Karen and Tony Hinkel at Info@TKHRealty.com. |
Rock n' Roll Marathon - September 22
Get ready to Rock n' Roll Denver! On Saturday, September 22nd, starting at 6:45 a.m. at Civic Center Park, the marathon will weave racers through the Downtown Denver area in the most musical marathon around.
Start your racing weekend with the Rock n' Roll EXPO, September 20th & 21st, at the Colorado Convention Center from Noon-5:00 p.m. The event is FREE and open to the public and features over 60 exhibitors that will offer free samples, showcase the latest running gear, and provide health and nutritional information. Pick up some last minute things before the race, or just learn about all the new stuff in the health and fitness industry.
On race day, the Bike Tour starts at 6:45 a.m., and the Marathon, ½ Marathon & Relay will begin at 7:45 a.m. Local bands will line the streets of Denver and put on a show for the racers, as well as the general public. The event supports men's prostate health, with all discarded clothing given to local homeless shelters. So come down and rock out while cheering on your friends and family, or just to enjoy the music. To register or get more information on road closures visit: http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/denver |
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University Neighbors Annual Summer Social - September 9
Come enjoy pie and ice cream with your neighbors at DeBoer Park (S. Vine St.
at Harvard) on Sunday, September 9, from 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. |
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