imberlines

Published by and for the City of Lone Tree Issue 64 Winter/Spring 2015

The city that’s growing...carefully.303-708-1818 www.cityoflonetree.com

1

Happy days are here—again!

In this issue: City begins searchfor the PerfectTeenager.Page 3.

Picture yourself a winner.Page 6.

Lone Tree decidesto grow its own.Page 10.

New landmark toprovide link across Lincoln.Page 12.

Your birthday.Independence Day.Thanksgiving.The first rainbow of spring.The last day of school.A tropical vacation.What do all these things have in common?They’re all events most (normal) people look

forward to each year. And starting this year, there’s a new date for

Lone Tree residents to look forward to:The day Our City’s Annual Report is published

in Timberlines.Why is it so great?Because it tells you everything you wanted to

know about living in The LT.From the size of the City’s annual budget to

how much is spent on the amenities you love and

preserving the quality of life you've come to enjoywithin Our City Limits.“This Annual Report gives us an opportunity to

provide our residents and business partners—inessence, the City’s shareholders—a summary ofour performance for the prior year,” explainsMayor Pro Tem Jackie Millet. “It not only includes interesting facts about our

population, but also gives residents a sense ofwhat we’ve accomplished as a City.”But wait.There's more.Want to know how many square miles Lone

Tree spans?Or how many miles of trails you can traverse

without leaving town?Or how many people set foot in the Lone Tree

Arts Center last year? Continued on Page 2.

308 words from the Mayor.308 words from the Mayor.

2

A year in review.

As Timberlines looks back over the past year with the2014 Annual Report, it seems appropriate to pause andreflect back on the people who make up the Lone Treecommunity.

As many of you know, we have a wonderful CityCouncil comprised of people devoted to Our City and tothose of you who call it home. Councilmembers arequick to respond to resident and business concerns, andthey work diligently with City Staff in answering or addressing issues—whether it’s listening over coffee,hosting a meeting with staff, or just answering an email.They bring this feedback with them to every decisionthey make regarding the future of Lone Tree.

Additionally, we have City Staff who continually put residents first by pursuing solutions beyond what is simply administratively acceptable to find the best possible balance for Our Community. They do this by remaining accessible to the community and holdingmultiple neighborhood meetings on issues of concern.Honestly, I never tire of hearing how accessible andhelpful Our Staff is to both the residents and businesses!

In George Washington’s farewell address, he statedthat: “In proportion as the structure of a governmentgives force to public opinion, it is essential that publicopinion should be enlightened.” He was speaking to theimportance of an informed electorate in ensuring goodgovernment.

It’s your willingness to seek out the information on issues that allows the City Council and Staff to representthe community in accordance with Washington’s statement above. Without input from our communityvolunteers and the time sacrificed by our residents in informing themselves on the issues, the efforts by theCouncil and Staff would be for naught.

It remains the Council and Staff’s privilege and honorto serve on your behalf. Our thanks for your support andcounsel as we continue to advocate for Our Community.

Sincerely,

Mayor of the City of Lone Tree

Are you part of the

85%?The 2014 Annual Report tells us thereare 5,331 households in Lone Tree. Official City Stats tell us that fewerthan 15% of those households are currently signed up to receive emailnews updates from the City. Oh, the shame! If you’re part of the 85%, please visitwww.cityoflonetree.com/enewssignup. There you’ll be able to opt into (orout of) various City email notifications. You’ll also become way more likelyto know way more than your neighbor,who may have (accidentally) skipped over this announcement.

That’s in there, too.There’s even a glimpse of what

residents can look forward to in thenear future.“We want to continue to be a

top-tier, life-long city—one in whichyou’re happy to live in before you havekids, when you have kids, once you’reretired, and beyond,” notes Millet.“Lone Tree definitely has a high

profile in the region, and we want tomaintain the standards that have gotten us here and continue to buildon that.” So go ahead—turn to the middle of

this issue and read on.You can separate the 2014 Annual

Report from the rest of Timberlinesand leave it on your coffee table toenjoy year-round.Not sure you’ll want to refer to it for

the next 365 days?Don't worry.Even if you don’t keep it handy for

the rest of the year, chances are goodit will last longer than that New Year’sresolution you made last month.

Continued from Page 1.

3

City begins search for The Perfect Teenager.

Well, not exactly. Because in Our City, there are so many perfectteenagers that it would be impossible to single outjust one... Right? So the City’s narrowing its search for the 2015Outstanding Youth of Lone Tree in a few ways: He or she must be in grade 8–12. She or he must live in Lone Tree. She or he must demonstrate leadership in anexceptional way. And he or she must be willing to make himselfor herself known to the masses. Know someone who fits the bill? Then read on for all the details.

WHAT: The Outstanding Youth of Lone Tree Award was created by the seven- member Lone Tree Youth Commission (made up of students in grades 8–12 who live in Lone Tree and serve in an advisory capacity to City Council).

WHY: To recognize youth within Our City who demonstrate a commitment to community involvement as well as personal achievement.

Any student whose legal residence is within the City of Lone Tree at the time of application. The applicant must also be enrolled in grade 8–12, and the project or performance of qualifying deeds/actions identified in the application must have occurred within the previous 12 months.

By completing the two-page application, writing an essay, submitting a copy of your school transcript or report card, having two letters of recommendation mailed to the City, and writing an original song featuring the lyrics, ‘I love Lone Tree.’ (Okay, not that last part.)

The application is available online at www.cityoflonetree.com/youthaward. Applications will be accepted from February 1–April 1.

The award will be given to an individual orgroup of students who demonstrate leadershipthrough community service or other outstandingachievements in academics, arts and culture, entrepreneurship, environment, sports and recreation, social action, or personal triumph. A panel made up of Lone Tree Youth Commissioners, City Councilmembers, and City Staff will review all entries and hold in-person interviews with the top candidates. And what’s in it for the selfless community servant who is named the Outstanding Youth? The winner will be recognized at a publicaward ceremony in early May, leading to City-wide fame and glory. And as if that’s not enough, money ($500) willchange hands as well. Still have questions? Contact Kristen Knoll, staff liaison to the Youth Commission, at 303-708-1818 orkristen.knoll@cityoflonetree.com.

WHO CAN APPLY:

HOWTOAPPLY:

WHEN TO APPLY:

4

Up next at LTAC...For a full listing of performances and to purchasetickets, visit www.lonetreeartscenter.org or call720-509-1000.

Opera Colorado: Arias and Ensembles &Romeo and Juliet.Wednesday, February 11, 7:30 pm. Double your opera enjoyment with this two-actproduction! The first act featuresarias and ensemble performances fromsome of opera’s greatest hits. The second act is an abridged version ofGounod’s opera, Romeo and Juliet. So come let yourself be ‘wowed’ as Opera Colorado young artists bring their talent and vocalprowess to this classic tale.

Songs of Love with Mark Masri.Saturday, February 14, 8 pm. They say Canadiantenor Mark Masrimelts the hearts of female audiencemembers like warmchocolate. Come find out if it’s true during this romantic evening out, complete with achampagne intermission and lovesongs from all over the world.

Children’s Theater: Yesterado.Monday, February 23–Thursday, February 26;10 am daily. Back by popular demand, Yesterado is the imaginative and fun way to learn Colorado history. This sharp, fun slice of showmanship uses stories of conman Soapy Smith, socialite MollyBrown, and cyclist Dora Rinehart to create a living, breathing portrait of our state when it wasstill cutting its teeth.

An Evening with Nathan Gunn and PianistJulie Jordan Gunn.Tuesday, March 10, 7:30 pm.

This intimate recital may very well be the crownjewel of LTAC’s upcoming season! Internationally known opera star NathanGunn—one of the world’s most exciting and in-demand baritones—makes his Denver-area debutwith his wife/renowned pianist Julie Jordan Gunn.

The Motones.Saturday, March 14, 8 pm. What do you get when you put four insanelytalented singers, a full band, and a songbook ofMotown hits together? The Motones! Come listen tothis incomparablequartet as theyexplode onto theLTAC stage withall the power andsoul of that classicera. Featured songsinclude hits fromThe Jackson 5, The Temptations, The Four Tops,Marvin Gaye, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons,and many more.

5

The Great Ladies of Jazz with the CJRO.Monday, March 23, 7:30 pm. Come hear the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestrain this amazing performance featuring Kim Nazarianof the New York Voices.

Nazarian is a Grammy-nominatedarranger, Grammy award-winningensemble singer, teacher, andlyricist, as well as an acclaimedsoprano who has recorded, performed, and toured throughoutthe world for the past 20 years.

The 39 Steps.Thursday, April 2–Saturday, April 11; Times vary.Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece witha juicy spy novel—then add adash of screwball comedy—andyou have The 39 Steps. Theatergoers won’t want tomiss this Tony award-winningtreat that’s packed with laughs and more than 150zany characters (played by a talented cast of four).

Yellowjackets.Friday, April 17, 8 pm. The Yellowjackets’ name has been synonymouswith jazz-fusion and smooth jazz for more than30 years. With 25 albumsunder their proverbialbelt, this Grammyaward–winning quartethas toured the worldwith their signaturesound.

Wonderbound—Boomtown.Saturday, April 25, 8 pm. The wildly creative and inspirational dancecompany Wonderbound makes its LTAC debut inthis Colorado-themed performance. Collaborating with Chimney Choir (Denver’s adventurous folk/rock band), the company asksyou to journey into the realms of personal mythand the power of place. In a land where the mountains meet the plainsand humanity endeavors to leave a mark worthyof the earth beneath its feet, the world created bythis performance is fantastical yet familiar.

Jarrod Spector.Sunday, April 26, 7:30 pm.

He first won America’s heart as a 3-year-old on“Star Search.” He joined the cast of Les Miserables on Broadwayas a child. He starred in Jersey Boys as the iconic Frankie Valli for four years on Broadway. He currently stars in Broadway’s Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (in which he was nominated for a 2014 Tony Award). And now Jarrod brings what’s sure to be an unforgettable performance to Lone Tree! Featured songs will include some of the most recognizable tunes from the 1960s throughtoday, including “Splish Splash,” “Even Now,”“Hallelujah,” “Misery,” and even a little Led Zeppelin and Bon Jovi as well. Come enjoy hearing the sounds and stories ofa lifetime on the stage.

6

Picture yourself a winner.Or picture a picture of yourselfa winner. Or maybe just picture apicture that you took... That you weren’t even in. The truth is there will belots of winners in lots of categories at this year’s annual photo show, Exploring the Light 2015. And if you want to be oneof them, you need to enter. Here’s what you need toknow:• Call for Entry is now openfor the 13th annual event.• Photographers may submitup to three images in multiplecategories via CaFÉ(www.callforentry.org)by March 27.• There’s an entry fee of $35per photographer.

A book is worth1,000 pictures.

Or something like that. The Lone Tree Photo Club will—with photographers’ permission—again publish a book featuring the accepted entries into Exploring the Light 2015.

Accepted images will beprinted alongside the photographer’s name and details about the picture. If you want to participate, be sure to say so when registering on CaFÉ. You’ll also need to completean online questionnaire atwww.lonetreephotoclub.com.

Last year’s winner in the Animals category, Home Schooling by Winn Halverhout.

Last year’s winner in the Motion category, Cycles by Fernando Boza.

• Categories include: Landscape, Animals, Abstract,Portraits/People, and Macro.(Sorry, no Selfie category thisyear.)• Total cash awards are estimated at $3,000.• The Best of Show and First Place winners in eachcategory will receive galleryspace for approximately twoweeks following the photoshow.

Exploring the Light will runfrom April 28–May 31at the Lone Tree Arts Center.

For more details, contact Lesley Colwell at lesley.colwell@cityoflonetree.comor visit www.lonetreeartscenter.org/photo-show.php.

Last year’s Best of Show winner, Geminid Showers Over Double Arch by Todd Miller.

7

Fairways Park is no longer just ‘fair.’

Come springtime, it’s going to befabulous. No, really, it is. Where it once featured aneroded hillside on which little could grow because of foot traffic and nutrient-deficient soils, it willsoon boast a functional concretetrail for pedestrian access. And enhanced landscaping inthe form of shrubs. And flowers. And red-boulder retaining walls. And guess what else? The new plantings will be irrigated. And nearby residents will bethrilled. And all will be right in this parkalong Troon Village Drive. The $80,000 upgrade is equallyfunded by the City of Lone Tree and South Suburban Parks and Recreation (plus $5,000 fromThe Fairways HOA). So as the temps warm up, gocheck it out.

HOW NOW, SNOWPLOW?Winter storms can be trying—for motorists, pedestrians, residents,and snowplow operations. Our City’s goal after a snow event is to keep our streets open,keep traffic moving, and return roadways to a safe condition asquickly as possible. Sounds simple enough, right? Even so, the process for clearing snow from residential streetsisn’t always clear. Sometimes the snow is plowed to the curb. Other times it’s pushed to the middle ofthe street. Then hours later, it’s back toward the curb. So what gives? Here’s a look at what happens and why:

First: Snow is initially plowed by making one pass in each direction on residential streets. This leaves a windrow (or pile) of snow generally six to eight feet from the curb. This process is repeated until the snow event ends.

Next: After the initial clearing, if temperatures are conducive,plows move snow from the outside of the street back onto thecleared area. This process takes advantage of the black pavement’s solar gain to accelerate melting of the snow.

Finally: If a significant amount of snow doesn’t melt, plowsmake an additional pass toward the curb to minimize refreezingin the travel lanes.

Why isn’t snow simply left to melt after it’s been plowed once? Because handling the snow—jostling it around a bit—speedsup the melting process. It also reduces the possibility of snow in gutters melting during the day and refreezing at night (which is more difficult to manage). It also allows additional room for snow in future storms by reducing the amount of the white stuff stored near the curb. So you see, without clearing the same snow multiple times,there’s greater potential for problematic snow buildup and ice accumulation in the gutters. And once the snow becomes ice, it’s nearly impossible forplowing equipment to remove it without serious damage to thepavement. And that would be seriously frustrating. So next time the snow falls, rest assured: There’s a method. It’s not madness. We promise.

For information on the City’s snow management plan, visitwww.cityoflonetree.com/snow.

8

Little sprouts love Seedlings.Seedlings is a one-hour-long family program designed to engage parents and young children in arts, culture, science,and genuine entertainment. Boxed lunches from Firehouse Subs are available (for 11am performances only) when you pre-order with your ticket purchase. Recommended audience: Toddlers through kindergarten. Admission: $3. (Children ages 1 and under are free but must have a ticket.) Child box lunches: $3. Adult box lunches: $4.

Here’s what’s coming up next:

Once Upon a Time: Aesop’s Fables.Tuesday, February 3, 9:30 & 11 am. The Once Upon A Time ensemble of Colorado Symphony musicians presents a delightful storytelling program that stimulates children’s imaginations usingmusic as a prominent element of the story! Come enjoy this unique program that includes classicstories that teach children the value of telling the truth andhard work.

Three Wishes.Tuesday, March 3, 9:30 & 11 am. Be careful what you wish for...because you just might get it! Merry-Andrew Afoot adapts twoclassic fairy tales into one hilariousplay that you won’t want to miss.

Thunderbirds.Tuesday, April 7, 9:30 & 11 am. Forget ‘Polly want a cracker.’ This fun program (from thesame people who brought TopHogs to LTAC last year) featuresincredibly trained parrots thattake their tricks to the nextlevel.

Purchase tickets online atwww.lonetreeartscenter.org orcall the LTAC Box Office at 720-509-1000.

SORRY

SOLD OUT

Postcards from Europe.Friday, February 27, 7:30 pm.Join the LTSO for an unforgettableevening featuring Linda Wang, praisedas one of the finest young violinists inthe world. The program will include MaxBruch’s Violin Concerto No.1, as well asGioachino Rossini’s The Italian in AlgiersOverture, selections from Fiddler on theRoof, Modest Mussorgsky’s Dawn Overthe River Moscow, and George Enescu‘sRomanian Rhapsody No.1.

Purchase tickets online at www.lonetreeartscenter.orgor by calling 720-509-1000.

Next up for the Lone Tree Symphony :

WHO WE ARE

POPULATION BY AGE

[DAYTIME POPULATION: 25,216]

[MEDIAN AGE: 39.4]RESIDENTS WITH BACHELOR’SDEGREES OR HIGHER: 64%

If you were one of the first 3,000 residents of Lone Tree back in 1995, you know firsthand how muchthe City has matured and grown over the last 20 years. What started as a small, 1.49-square-mile municipality with an annual budget of $6,761 has expanded into a growing City covering nearly 10square miles, with 12,779 residents and an annual budget of $37 million. So why do families and businesses choose to call Lone Tree their home? It’s simple: The City has a lot to offer!

Lone Tree has developed into the thriving City you see today thanks to an emphasis on careful,strategic growth. Other contributing factors include: • Engaged elected officials. • Dedicated residents who volunteer to serve on various commissions, boards, and committees. • An efficient, highly skilled staff. • A business-friendly climate. • Convenient access to multimodal transportation.

12,779POPULATION

NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS

[ ]

5,331$591,000= MEDIAN

SALES PRICE[SINGLE FAMILY HOME]

AVERAGE HOUSEHOLDINCOME$149,232=

MORE INTERESTING NUMBERS FROM 2014.

40%of residents haveattended an event

at LTAC.

11City-sponsored special events.[with more than20,000 attendees]

142,648general admission visitors to the Lone Tree

Recreation Center.

35miles of trails in City limits.

244acres of public parks.

1st City Manager,Jack Hidahl, retiresafter 18 years.

879seniors who

attended Living &Aging Well events.

Rounds of golfplayed at theLone Tree Golf Club

130PERFORMANCES

Lone Tree Library checked out more than700,000 items last year,and had more than 250,000 visitors.

MORE THAN

100DINING

ESTABLISHMENTSTO CHOOSE FROM

34,760

NUMBER OF CITY VOLUNTEERS: 216[NUMBER OF VOLUNTEER HOURS: 10,000]

$1,088,437[TOTAL TICKET REVENUE]

6,346’HIGHEST ELEVATION IN LONE TREE

HOW WE LEAD The City of Lone Tree is

governed by a Council-Manager form of government in which

the City Council (representing the community) sets policy, and the City Managerleads the City Staff in implementingthat policy. Our City Council andStaff are committed to exceptionalquality of life for our residents andhigh-quality development withinOur City’s boundaries.

Lone Tree provides a full range ofservices, including:• Public safety.• Construction and maintenance ofstreets and other public infrastructure.• Planning and building permit review and inspections.• Arts and cultural activities.• Financial management.• Municipal clerk and court services.• Economic development and business support.

MAYOR ANDCITY COUNCIL

2014 TOTAL REVENUE: $37,342,154

2014 TOTAL EXPENDITURES: $34,199,314

•TAXES• FRANCHISE FEES• INTERGOVERNMENTAL• LICENSES, FEES & CHARGES• FINES & FORFEITURES•ARTS CENTER• OTHER

• ECONOMIC VIBRANCY• SAFE COMMUNITY• MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION• ENRICHED COMMUNITY•ATTRACTIVE & SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENTMUNICIPAL STEWARDSHIP• CAPITAL INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE

Jim GunningMayor

Jackie MilletMayor Pro Tem

Harold AndersonCouncil Member

Kim MonsonCouncil Member

Susan SquyerCouncil Member

SPENDING BASED ON BUDGET OUTCOMES

Budgeting for Outcomes, or BFO, helps the City Council, staff andcommunity understand how our services and expenditures alignwith the priorities of the community.

CALLS FOR SERVICE IN 2014

AVERAGE NUMBER OF TRAINING HOURS PER OFFICER PER YEAR

THE BUSINESS OF BUSINESSAVERAGE TRAFFIC COUNTS ON

MAJOR STREETS[DAILY TOTALS IN THOUSANDS]

AVERAGE NUMBER OF MILES AN OFFICER TRAVELSWITHIN THE CITY PER MONTH

OR[SLIGHTLY MORE THAN THE DRIVING DISTANCE FROM

LONE TREE TO MAZATLAN, MEXICO]

21,1801,600

107

/////// PUBLIC WORKS ///////

6 Lane-Miles repaired in 2014

Lane-Miles maintained by the CityTraffic signals maintained by the City

10047

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

0

Park

Mea

dows D

r,

east

of Yo

semite

St

Yose

mite St

, nor

th

of Lo

ne Tr

ee Pk

wy

Ridge

Gate P

kwy,

east

of H

avan

a St

Linco

ln Av

e,

east

of I-

25MAKING IT EASIER TO DO BUSINESSIN LONE TREE

171,551 visits to the City’s website.

1,766 unique visitors on July 4th.

[three times more than any other day of the year]

REVENUE SOURCESSALES TAX IS THE LARGEST REVENUE SOURCE - 62%

CITY SALES TAX RATE = 1.8125%

CITY DOES NOTTAX FOOD FOR HOME CONSUMPTION

CITY DOES NOTTAX CAR SALES

THE CITY OF LONE TREE DOES NOT

HAVE A PROPERTY TAX

245new business licenses in 2014

value of building permits issued in 2014

804$129,605,431

new building permits issued in 2014

Launched new online building permit program

Began offering online sales tax filing

Growth and change are nothing new for Our Community. In fact, they’ve been with us since LoneTree’s earliest days. Knowing the area would attract many more people over time, City leaders established a long-range Comprehensive Plan to provide a broad framework for future growth. That framework—which addresses matters of land use, transportation, the environment, and community facilities and services—has led to steady and deliberate growth.

WHERE WE ’RE HEADED

• RTD Board gives stamp of approvalfor Southeast Light Rail Extension.

• Launch of Lone Tree Link.

• Grand opening of the Charles Schwabcorporate campus.

• Expansion of Sky Ridge Medical Center.

• Grand openings of new retailers andrestaurants including Lyfe Kitchen, Seasons 52, Perry’s Steakhouse, LL Bean, Somnia Store, and Inspyre Boutique.

• Purchase of tw telecom by Level 3.

• And, while not in Lone Tree, the $40 million donation of the Wildlife Experience to the University of Coloradowill have a positive long-term impacton the City and Southeast Denver.

9220 Kimmer Drive, Suite 100, Lone Tree, CO 80124303-708-1818 information@cityoflonetree.com www.cityoflonetree.com

Original aerial photo copyright: Colorado Sky Shots. Photo provided courtesy of Coventry Development Corporation.

LARGEST EMPLOYERS IN LONE TREE

Charles Schwab: 2,200

Sky Ridge Medical Center: 1,300

Level 3: 1,000

Kaiser Permanente: 350

2014's TOP ECONOMIC HIGHLIGHTS

tvGh

Wf

t

®

MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS APPROVED BY THE CITY IN 2014:Charles Schwab Campus – 3rd office building and second parking structure.Sky Ridge Medical Center – Expansion and office building.Kaiser Permanente – Medical offices.MorningStar – Senior living campus.North Sky – 33-lot residential subdivision.Commonwealth Heights – 190 residential units.New Town Builders – 57 townhomes.

LOOKINGFORWARDTO: 2015

• Federal funding approval for Southeast Light Rail Extension.• New library plans.• Pedestrian bridge planning.• Resident survey.• Community garden.

9

Let your child’simagination soarwith Passport toCulture! This popularprogram givesschool-aged children thechance to unlockthe world aroundthem throughadventures in arts, culture, and science. Designed to engage as well as entertain, this series is for families whoare ready to fill their passports with performances, workshops, and purely entertaining experiences! Adults and children: $5. Children ages 2 and under: Free, but must have a ticketto attend. Purchase tickets at the Lone Tree Arts Center Box Officein person, via phone at 720-509-1000, or online at www.lonetreeartscenter.org.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Chinese New Year.Sunday, February 15, 3 pm. The rich and vibrant culture of China comes toLone Tree! Come celebrate‘The Year of theSheep’ with theColorado AsianCultural HeritageCenter. Performance includes threedances, eachtelling a story that embodies the culture of the Chinese New Year celebration.

Wonderbound.Sunday, March 1, 3 pm. This entertainingprogram engageskids’ imaginationsas they watch excerpts from Wonderbound’smost excitingdances. The interactiveprogram also givesaudience members the chance to help choreograph new dances.

SORRY

SOLD OUT

Enjoy an afternoon‘snack’ at LTAC.

Whether you have an appetite for the arts or simply find yourself craving a new afternoon activity, LTAC has you covered. Designed to serve our area’s fast-growing seniorand retiree populations (but open to all ages),Arts in the Afternoon exposes attendees to different genres of music performed by small professional ensembles. Performances are held on Wednesdays. Each is 60 minutes long. Afterwards, artists and audience membersgather for light refreshments and discussion aboutthe performance. The best part? Tickets are just $18/person.

Next up in the series:

Opera Colorado: Romeo and Juliet.Wednesday, February 11, 1:30 pm. The classic story of Romeo and Juliet. The skilled members of theOpera Colorado YoungArtists Program. Together they’ll bring amodern, abridged version of Gounod’s opera to life onthe LTAC stage.

Colcannon.Wednesday, March 11, 1:30 pm. Come enjoy authentic,joyous Irish music as theperfect prelude to St.Patrick’s Day! Colcannon band members bring energy and humor to each of their performances. So don’t miss this combination of timelesssongs and great musicianship that will transport audience members to another timeand place!

Purchase tickets online at www.lonetreeartscenter.org or by calling 720-509-1000.

10

Th

e G

re

en c o r n e r

Its own garden, that is. Plans are well underway for LoneTree’s first-ever community garden. It will be located on the back side ofLone Tree Elementary School (LTE). And if all goes according to plan, it willopen on May 1. “This garden will further build thesense of community that Our City takessuch pride in providing,” explained CityCouncilmember Susan Squyer. But this won’t be just any communitygarden. It will be extra special. Why? Because it will be on a school site. In fact, it will be the first communitygarden located on a campus within theDouglas County School District. The benefits of locating on a schoolsite are many, says Shannon Spurlock ofDenver Urban Gardens (DUG). (And she should know. DUG is experienced in establishing school-basedgardens and is helping Our Communitywith the design, construction, fundraising,and management of the garden.) Just what are the benefits? Teachers gain an outdoor classroom inwhich students can take part in hands-onlessons. Community members gain access tospace to grow food, get their hands dirty,and get to know their neighbors. (And because it’s located on schoolproperty, community gardeners willalso get background checks!)

So what else do you need to know? Up to one-fifth of the gardening plotswill be assigned to LTE students. The remainder will be assigned tocommunity members. All of them will reap what they sow. And if you’re chomping at the bit to geta plot, consider this: The people who help get the gardenestablished will have first crack at gettingtheir names drawn for the first garden plots. (Don’t worry—you don’t have to admitthat’s why you’re getting involved.) In fact, your help will be welcomedwith open arms. There will be volunteerwork days on Saturdays in April, weatherpermitting. “Many hands will make this light work,”said Jennifer Drybread, Lone Tree’s seniorplanner. “We encourage residents to participate!”

Interested in volunteering or contributingto construction costs? Contact Jennifer Drybread at 303-708-1818or jennifer.drybread@cityoflonetree.com. Interested in a garden plot when theybecome available? Contact Rick Sauer at 303-858-9877 orlonetreecg@gmail.com.

Lone Tree decides to grow its own.

11

But don’t worry—so is everyone else.So why not age well?It’s easy to do when you live in Lone Tree.And when there are monthly events geared

toward it.That are fun.And interesting.And sometimes include more than just lunch.Here’s the scoop on the regularly scheduled

luncheons, as well as an upcoming special eventto add to your calendar:

Monday, February 9, at 11:30 am:The Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, presentedby registered dietitian Susan Buckley of South Denver Cardiology Associates.

Monday, March 9, at 11:30 am:My Japanese Family’s WWII Experience, presented by Hank Wyeno.

Monday, April 13, at 11:30 am:Technology in Policing, presented by Lone Tree Police Chief Jeff Streeter.

Special Event: Winter Potluck.Friday, February 13, 5 -8 pm.Lincoln Park Clubhouse.(9200 Grafton Drive.)Bring a delicious dish to share.Coffee, tea, and hot spiced wine provided.Please RSVP by February 7 to LivingandAgingWellinLT@gmail.com or call 303-225-4930.

All luncheon events are held at Lone Tree GolfClub & Hotel.Cost is $12/person.Non-Lone Tree residents are welcome to attend.RSVP to LivingandAgingWellinLT@gmail.com

or call 303-225-4930.Visit www.cityoflonetree.com/agingwell for

more information.

You’re getting older.

Following resident inquiries, research by CityPlanning staff, and a resident survey that indicated plenty of local support, City Councildecided to move forward with plans for a community garden. Here’s a look at how theplan has taken root.

January 2014:City Planning staff researches10 potential garden sites. LTE is chosen because it meets the site selection criteria(central location, land area, access, parking,water, topography, zoning, community impact).

Spring/Summer 2014: City solicits help from DUG and creates contractagreement between DUG and the Douglas County School District.

October 2014:Meeting isheld to get input on gardenuses, design, and character.DUG landscape architect designs garden based on input.

November 2014: Community GardenCommittee established (includes residents,representatives from LTE, and City staff).Work begins on fundraising and construction planning.

December 2014:The Safeway Foundation becomes the first to donate$5,000 to DUG for gardenconstruction, which will include fencing, irriga-tion, soil preparation, compost, paths, plotborders, storage shed, seating anda shade structure. (Sponsorshipand grant opportunities are stillavailable and much appreciated!See contact information at left.)

Spring 2015:Construction begins andvolunteer days arescheduled.

May 2015: Garden opens topublic.

12

It’s not there yet. But soon it will be. And when it is, Our City’s residents and visitorswill soar across Lincoln Avenue without a care inthe world. (Or at least without a care about the cars andcrosswalks below.) Thanks to a new agreement with Fentress Architects—the Denver-based firm that designed

New landmarkto provide link acrossLincoln.

Denver International Airport, the new CharlesSchwab campus, and pedestrian bridges through-out the country—Lone Tree officials will soon review potential pedestrian bridge designs. And after City Council reviews them, it will bethe residents’ turn.“We’re going to get three conceptual designs, andthen we'll take those to our residents and they’llhelp decide what the bridge is going to look like,”explained City Councilmember Harold Anderson. “We’re going to make sure we have a nice-lookingbridge.” So why a pedestrian bridge? Because of Our City’s steady growth. And to keep traffic moving along Lincoln Avenue. And because of Our City’s desire to create safe,pedestrian-friendly access between amenitiesnorth and south of Lincoln Avenue. So where will it be built? City Officials looked at several possible sitesover the last few years before deciding upon thewinning location: The new bridge will connect the Willow CreekTrail and Lone Tree Elementary to the WillowCreek linear park. (See aerial image.) Officials hope the new landmark can be completed in 2016, and expect it will be fundedjointly through a partnership that includes not onlythe City of Lone Tree but also area agencies with avested interest in helping pedestrians get aroundtown safely. Want to weigh in on the designs?Then watch your email or check the City’s websitefor meeting dates and times as they're announced.

Public service can be a thankless job. But not in Our City. Here, we’re so thankful that we say it twice. Why? Just to be sure they know we really mean it! Volunteers on Our City’s commissions, boards,and committees generally serve 3-year terms, andmany stick around for more than one term. And Lone Tree is all the better because of theirservice. “Lone Tree has a rich history of caring individualsstepping up to the plate to serve,” notes City Councilmember Kim Monson. “I join all the residents of Our Community insaying a big ‘thank you’ to these men and womenfor their time and dedication.”

Thank you! Thank you!

Arts Commission:• Carin Buster.• Lucius Brooker.

Planning Commission:• Gary Godden.• David Sauder.

Audit Committee:• Andrew Dodge.• Chris Howson.• Don Rogers.

Citizens’ RecreationAdvisory Committee:• Steve Supple.

The residents named below recently completedtheir terms. So next time you see these faithful communityservants on the street, in the mall, or sipping alatte, acknowledge them with a high five, hug, or a simple ‘Hey, you’re awesome!’ to let them knowthey’re appreciated.

LINCOLN AVE.

13

Chamber news and notes.President Mary Martin has hit the ground running sincejoining the Lone Tree Chamber a few short months ago.You can reach her at mary.martin@lonetreechamber.com.

Sign up now to volunteer later. Whether you’d love to help with the popular LibertyDash or A Taste of Lone Tree (or new events to come),the Chamber wants to know! Shifts last only 2-3 hours, but the memories andconnections made last much longer. Email chamberinfo@lonetreechamber.com or call 303-792-3282 and provide your contact information, whatyou’re interested in helping with, and what time of day isbest for you, and the Chamber will take care of the rest!

Business After Hours. A big thank you to local businesses who host thesepopular events! Here’s what you need to know:• These events are held on the first Wednesday ofeach month from 5–7 pm.• They’re open to community members ($15 fee fornonmembers) who would like to learn more about theChamber and meet and network with members. • RSVPs are appreciated.

Join them on the following dates: Wednesday, February 4. Yoga Trigo. 10463 Park Meadows Drive, Suite 109.

Wednesday, March 4. Functional Strength Pilates. 10047 Park Meadows Drive.

Wednesday, April 1. Hampton Inn & Suites. 10030 Trainstation Circle.

Business Connections Luncheons. These luncheons give members the opportunity tonetwork, listen to an educational speaker, and presenta 90-second “commercial” about their business—allwhile enjoying a delicious lunch. Cost is $15 for members, $20 for nonmembers. Visit www.lonetreechamber.com for upcoming topics, locations, and times.

For information on membership or upcoming events,visit www.lonetreechamber.com, call 303-792-3282, or email chamberinfo@lonetreechamber.com.

Local university

offers free education.

But you know that. Because you’ve read this column before. At least once. Maybe more. So stop simply reading about it. Instead, register now for any of these one-hourclasses on Lone Tree’s sales and use tax laws. They begin at 2 pm on the following days andcover the following topics: Friday, February 20: Use Tax. Friday, March 20: Medical Sales & Use Tax. Friday, April 24: Sales & Use Tax.

Classes are geared toward Lone Tree businessesand are held in the Juniper Room at the City of LoneTree Municipal Building, 9220 Kimmer Drive. So reserve your tuition-free seat by contactingScott Hall, CPA, at 303-708-1818 ext. 1288 or viaemail at scott.hall@cityoflonetree.com. You’ll be glad you (finally) did.

If you own a business in LoneTree, don’t just stand there. Follow the herd of businessesmoving to online tax filing. Yep, it’s becoming thatpopular. Because completing salestax returns and making payments online is easier. And more efficient. And doesn’t require piles of paperwork. Tax payments can be made using anelectronic payment from a bank account (no creditcards accepted yet). Interested businesses should call Lone Tree’s finance department at 303-708-1818 for a PINnumber. That PIN—along with your City account number—will allow you to create an account on www.xpressbillpay.com. Once the account is set up, simply select “City ofLone Tree, CO” as your e-bill provider, and voilà! You’ll leave the old way of doing things in the dust.

Join the stampede!

14

The latest fromSSPRD.

For a complete list of SSPRD events, classes, andcamps—or to register for any of the eventsbelow—visit www.ssprd.org or call 303-798-5131.

Tantalizing Tastes Series. Join friends and neighbors for this unique, intimate dining experience! Lone Tree Golf Club &Hotel’s culinary team willpresent delicious five-course food and beveragepairings. Seating is limited, andreservations are required. Cost is $36/person; 21 & over only. (Menus available onlineat www.golflonetree.com.)

Next up in the series: Tuesday, February 10, 6–8 pm: A Romantic Valentine’s Food and Wine Dinner. Tuesday, April 14, 6–8 pm: A Trip to the Shore Food and Drink Dinner.

No school? No problem. Kids can have fun in asafe and supervised program on days whenschool is out. They’ll keep busy withgames, swimming, fieldtrips, and more. Hours are 7 am–6 pm. For more informationor to register, contactmaryk@ssprd.org or call303-708-3518.

Night out for kids, night off for parents! Rec and Rock gives kids a fun night out whilegiving parents a night off. Kids ages 7–14 enjoy themed games, activities,swimming, music/dancing, and more. Cost is $10/person. Upcoming dates at the Lone Tree RecreationCenter: Saturday, February 28, 7–10 pm. Saturday, April 25, 7–10 pm. Register online or just show up!

One city. Three clubs.

Lots of ladies.

Spring is just around the corner, whichmeans the Lone Tree Ladies’ 9-Hole and 18-Hole Clubs are (almost) back in action. Choose the one that’s right for you, fillout an application, and let the games begin. The leagues run April–September. They accept women of all skill levels. And they’re geared toward fun and fellowship. Here’s what you need to know:

• The Ladies’ 9-Hole Evening Club plays on Monday evenings. Applications will be available in the ladies locker room beginning in early March. Participation is limited due to sunlight restrictions. Contact Tracie Larson at tracie88@msn.com for more information.

• The Ladies’ 9-Hole Club plays on Thursday mornings. Introductory coffee on Thursday, March 26, at 9:30 am at Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel. Contact Nancy Cushing at 720-560-9333 for more information.

• The Ladies’ 18-Hole Club tees off Wednesday mornings. Contact Helen Robinette at helenrobinette@earthlink.net.

15

Coming soon to the Lone Tree Library...Check out the special events below, or visitwww.douglascountylibraries.org for a completelist of activities, book discussion groups, and more. Events are held at the Lone Tree Library, unlessotherwise noted. Registration is usually required. Cost is usually free. Have questions? Call 303-791-7323.

Taekwondo Storytime. Saturday, February 7, 2 pm. Storytime, craft time, and a Taekwondo demonstration. What could be more fun for your littlemartial arts master?

Teen Library Council. Need volunteer hours? Join other teens as they advocate for their peers,plan events, recommend materials, volunteer inthe community, and—you guessed it—earn volunteer hours. Held the second Thursday of each month. Thursday, February 12, 7 pm. Thursday, March 12, 7 pm. Thursday, April 9, 7 pm.

An Evening with Author Carol Fenster: Gluten-Free Cooking. Thursday, February 19, 6:30 pm. Want to make gluten-free foods and enjoy howthey taste? Then join author Carol Fenster as she talks abouther newest book, Gluten-Free 101: The Essential Beginner’s Guide to Gluten-Free Cooking. If you like what youhear, you’ll beable to buy her book onthe spot.

Chinese Calligraphy for Kids. Saturday, February 21, 10 am. Come learn basic calligraphytechniques and even a few characters. Bring an old shirt to wear that can get messy. Parents, you can attend, too! Take-home project included. Ages 7–11.

Cash Flow Fundamentals. Tuesday, February 24, 6:30 pm. Want a better understanding of how moneyflows in and out of your business? Then come to this workshop! Topics covered include positive cash flow, salesforecasting, and gross profit. Presented by the Small Business Development Center of South Metro Denver. Register atwww.smallbusinessdenver.com/events.cfm.

Business Plan Basics. Wednesday, March 11, 6:30 pm. This informative session covers the basics ofpreparing a successful business plan. Topics include the purpose of having a plan,what it should include, the documents you’ll need,and much more. Register at www.smallbusinessdenver.com/events.cfm.

Simple Science.Saturday, April 18, 10 am. Experience interactive science stations withyour young scientist! For children ages 4–7 and their parents.

Journey to Kindergarten.Tuesdays, April 21 & 28, 6 pm. Explore five critical areas that affect Kindergartenreadiness. Plan to attend both sessions and hear from experts and engage in activities that will developthe whole child.

Branching out? Take us with you...

Email your photo submissions to timberlines@cityoflonetree.com.

Talk back to Timberlines at timberlines@cityoflonetree.com.If you live outside of Lone Tree, sign up to receive this publication electronically at www.cityoflonetree.com/enewssignup and select

“Lone Tree Quarterly Newsletter.”

a dl26 MTf {

Timberlines strikes a pose with the Manjrekar family(and a friend) infront of Epcot’siconic SpaceshipEarth Ball.