imberlines

Published by and for the City of Lone Tree Issue 66 Fall 2015

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

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In this issue: City asks residents to get out...soon!Page 6.

Planners have a plan for everything.Page 8.

If your trees could talk...Page 16.

It’s happened to most of us.Usually on vacation or at a family gathering.We start happily huddled around a table,

assembling the pieces of an intricate puzzle.But then it happens:That final piece is nowhere to be found.Smiles fade.Frustration abounds.Even the dog is blamed.And in the end, it seems all the efforts up to

that moment have been a complete waste.Because without just one piece, the entire puzzle

is incomplete.But here’s the good news:Your City doesn’t want that to happen to you.Not at your kitchen table.And certainly not at its proverbial Transportation

Planning Table.(Hey, it might really exist.)

“The investments Our City is making now inmultimodal transportation will yield tremendousbenefits—not just for quality of life for residentsand employees, but also for commerce in general,property values, and the health of our local economy,” explains Mayor Pro Tem Jackie Millet. “What’s exciting is that we have all the pieces of

the transportation puzzle happening in Lone Tree rightnow.”Read on for a look at

some of those key piecesand how each is designedto keep residents, commuters, bikers, andpedestrians happily movingwithin Lone Tree’s borders—both today and in years tocome.

Continued on Page 2.

From A to B in The LT.

374 words from the Mayor.374 words from the Mayor.

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Residents, rest assured: City Council and Staff are activelyengaged in trying to keep up with the traffic that comeswith the growth in Lone Tree and the Southeast corridor.So I wanted to use this column to give you an overviewof our continuing efforts to curb congestion.

For those who frequent Park Meadows Mall, the weekendtraffic can sometimes seem almost as crazy as the trafficduring the Christmas season. Therefore, we’re discussing(with the mall) the possibility of another access alongYosemite to expedite the flow.

Similarly, backups on Park Meadows Center Drive heading south to County Line Road have been less thanideal for quite some time, so we partnered with DouglasCounty, Centennial, and the Denver South TransportationManagement Association (TMA) on a study to look atconfigurations and options to ease congestion in thatarea. That study is nearing completion.

Elsewhere in Our City, public works is looking at the possibility of an additional left hand turn lane to handlethe backups on Heritage Hills Circle at Lincoln Avenue(an intersection likely to see more traffic when the roadon the south side opens up through RidgeGate).

Projects already approved but that aren’t yet under construction include a dedicated right hand turn laneheading north on Yosemite from Maximus to Park Meadows Drive. Additionally, the C-470 Coalition wassuccessful in getting a new “managed lane” (that will usecongestion-based pricing) on C-470, and CDOT is in theprocess of selecting a contractor.

I’m happy to say the I-25 lane widening is nearing completion, and the new two-lane on-ramp from Lincoln to I-25 north has already eased congestion entering the ramp. The Lone Tree Link, after only 10months, is seeing 5,000–6,000 riders per month travelingalong Park Meadows Drive between Sky Ridge MedicalCenter and the Entertainment District. This partnershipwith businesses along Park Meadows Drive is helpingease congestion at the intersection of Park MeadowsDrive and Lincoln Avenue.

All of these projects have regional impacts, so it’s important to recognize Douglas County, Park MeadowsMetropolitan District, Denver South TMA, and our business partners for their financial contributions. Most of these projects simply wouldn’t get done withoutregional cooperation.

Safe travels,

Mayor of the City of Lone Tree

THE WALK & WHEEL PLAN.To refresh your memory, last year’s Walk & WheelStudy was funded by a $99,999 grant from KaiserPermanente that examined bike/pedestrian mobility in Our City. The study is now complete, and its findings were

released in The Lone Tree Walk & Wheel Plan. The plan outlines a “proposed network” that

would provide bike and pedestrian access to destinations and “recreational assets” throughoutthe City. (See graphic below.)Specifically, the proposed network includes:

a continuous shared use path network betweenthe Centennial (C-470) Trail and RidgeGate; cycle-tracks (bike lanes physically separated from motortraffic and distinct from sidewalks) or painted bikelanes along Lone Tree’s major streets; and grade-separated crossings of busy roadways such asYosemite Street, Lincoln Avenue, and I-25.Not surprisingly, implementing the proposed

network will require retrofitting several major corridors to improve conditions for pedestriansand bicyclists of all ages and abilities. (But the good news is that as RidgeGate East

builds out, a new set of design guidelines will ensure future roadways fit into this comprehensivenetwork without a need for future retrofit.)Among the many recommendations laid out by

the plan, City Officials have identified three projectsas top priorities:

Continued from Page 1.

Winning the war on traffic.

Existing and proposed shared usepaths and trails.

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• Bike lanes on Ridgegate Parkway (between roundabouts). This improvement will result in two 11-foot travel lanes; an 11-foot, two-way center turn lane; an 8-foot parking lane on one side of the street; 8-foot sidewalks on both sides of the street; and 7-foot, on-street bike lanes on both sides of the street. (See illustration.) The two-lane roundabouts will be reduced to one lane to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Expected completion date: Fall 2015.

• Bike lanes on Yosemite Street (from Lincoln Avenue to Park Meadows Drive). Two 5-foot, on-street bike lanes will be striped on Yosemite Street (one in each direction) within the existing curb-to-curb width by reducing the 12-foot travel lanes to 11 feet and repurposing the 3-foot striped shoulder on both sides of the street. Expected completion date: Fall 2015; some portions in early 2016.

• A pedestrian bridge across Lincoln Avenue. After an extensive public input process, City Council directed staff to take actions necessary to complete property acquisitions, final design, and construction of the “leaf bridge” across Lincoln Avenue. This pedestrian bridge will provide a safe, convenient, attractive connection between popular destinations on both the north and south side of Lincoln Avenue. It will also offer an alternative transportation route for pedestrians who live or work on one side but want to take advantage of amenities that are on the other side. Traffic flow will also improve because pedestrians won’t alter traffic signal timing by crossing the street at a signalized crosswalk. Expected completion date: Fall 2016.

LONE TREE LINK.Launched last summer, this shuttle service was thefirst public-private partnership of its kind. Co-funded by three major employers, two metropolitan districts, and the City, the service runsfive days a week from 6 am–7 pm and helps keepthousands of cars off the streets each month. (For more information on the Lone Tree Link, seethe Happy Birthday, LTL! sidebar on page 5.)

Continued on Page 4.

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SOUTHEAST LIGHT RAIL EXTENSION.The 2.3-mile extension will add three more stations—Sky Ridge, Lone Tree City Center, andRidgeGate—within Lone Tree’s borders. When complete, the Southeast Rail Extension

will improve regional connectivity, provide a transit alternative to I-25, and attract new transitriders from northern Douglas County (includingLone Tree, Parker, Castle Pines, Castle Rock, and portions of Highlands Ranch). Expected completion date: 2019.For the latest milestones, see the RTD+YOU

sidebar on page 19.

I-25 LANE BALANCING AND C-470 EXPRESS TOLL LANE PROJECTS.These two projects will help ease congestion inand around Our City and as such will have positive effects for residents and commuters alike.The lane balancing project will add a lane in

each direction of I-25 (between Lincoln Avenueand County Line Road) and will also improvemerge lanes and create a two-lane northboundon-ramp.Expected completion date: No later than June 2016.

The C-470 project will add one express toll lanein each direction, auxiliary lanes (between Broadway and University in both directions), as well as other upgrades to improve traffic flowand safety. Expected completion date: 2018.

•With multiple visible projects going on at once,

there’s probably at least one resident who’s saying, “That’s all fine and great, but how is thisbeing paid for?”Well, we’re glad you (might have) asked.As most of you know, Lone Tree doesn't collect

property tax.We’re primarily a sales tax city.“City Council has been conservative estimating

anticipated sales tax revenues while also settingmoney aside in a capital fund,” explains Mayor Pro Tem Millet.“It’s important to note that we are funding all of

the transportation projects that are going on rightnow—we’re not borrowing to do any of it.”Millet further notes that partnerships with other

local governments and special districts have beena critical piece in funding transportation improve-ments and projects.“We leverage the investment dollars we make with the dollars from our partners to build a bigger, better project.”

Then stay in the loop when it comes to Citynews by joining the City’s various email listsat www.cityoflonetree.com/enewssignup.

Or follow @CityofLoneTree on Twitter.

Or CityofLoneTreeCO on Facebook.

Continued from Page 3.

Is all thisnews

new to you?

EXISTING SIX LANE CROSS SECTION

FUTURE EIGHT LANE CROSS SECTION

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It’s 5:30 am. Do you know where your Lone Tree Link driver is? In the case of Wayne Reeder, he’s right where he’s supposed to be: Behind the wheel of a green shuttle bus, ready to greet riders and get themsafely to their destination. Timberlines takes a look at how this Heritage Hills resident came to be aLone Tree Link (LTL) bus driver.

TL: How did you decide to become a LTL driver?WR: I was walking my dogs near the light rail station last winter and saw theLink bus. I thought, ‘Hey, I’d like to drive one of those.’ So I asked the driver ifthey needed part-time help. Next thing I know, within four or five days afterfilling out an application, I’m driving the route! And I’ve been driving everyweekday since, from 5:30-11 am.

TL: What’s surprised you most?WR: The amount of people who ride the bus! It’s definitely more than I expected.

TL: Are there any secrets you’ve discovered driving the loop?WR: Yes. If you look at the artwork at the front entrance of the Kaiser buildinglong enough, that artwork moves!

TL: Any other secrets you’ve learned?WR: I’ve learned a lot about Sky Ridge, and they have a great cafeteria. Once in awhile, I pick up a cup of coffee there. And Charles Schwab has an excellent cafeteria, too. Their breakfast burrito is delicious! Sometimes I get coffee there, too.

TL: Sounds like coffee keeps you fueled...WR: I do like my coffee. I drop in at Panera, because there’s also a stop in thatarea. And there's a new coffee shop by the light rail. Sometimes, when I’mparked by the station waiting for a train, I’ll even run into Willow Creek Dentaland grab a cup of coffee at my dentist’s office.

TL: What do you drive when you’re not driving a bus?WR: I’m usually on a Vespa or a Harley.

TL: Rumor has it you collect old cars...WR: Yes! The oldest one I have is a 1930 Ford Deluxe Model A five-windowcoupe. It was my wife’s dad’s car.

TL: What brought you to Colorado?WR: I used to be a builder back east, and my wife, Linda, was transferred outhere for her work at IBM as a computer analyst. I flew back and forth for twoyears, but then I was diagnosed with leukemia in 2006 and couldn’t do construction anymore. That’s when I moved here permanently.

TL: So you’re in remission now?WR: I’ve been in remission for three years. This is the first job I’ve had since beingdiagnosed. I’m not supposed to have stress, and I have no stress on this job! I love the people.

Drive on, Wayne.

Wayne’sWorld.

Happybirthday,LTL!

The Lone Tree Link shuttleservice celebrates its first fullyear of service on Thursday,September 17. Here’s a closer look at thefirst year (in numbers):

• 4 shiny green buses.• 9 friendly drivers with 22+years of combined drivingexperience.

• 6 stops along the 4.4-mileloop.

• Approximate # of milesdriven (per bus): 22,000.

• Buses run 13 hours a day,255 days a year.

• 3,315 service hours in thefirst year.

• 5,000–6,000 boardingsper month.

• Hours of service suspendeddue to inclement weather: 0.

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City asks residents to get out...soon!There’s no other way to say it: Lone Tree’s City Officials and Staff want you toget out of your house this summer. They want you to get out and rediscover whatmakes Lone Tree a great place to live. “Discover Lone Tree is a terrific opportunity tofind out why Our City is so unique,” says CityCouncilmember Kim Monson. “A sense of community and knowing your neighbors are justpart of what make living here so special.” Of course, there must be hundreds of reasonsthat 12,779* fabulous people call this place ‘home.’ So let’s celebrate a few of them!

Here’s a look at what’s planned:

FRIDAY, September 4, 6–10 pm.80s Night at LTAC.Kick off a long week-end of fun under thestars at the Lone TreeArts Center’s TerraceTheater. Entertainment includes totally tubular live musicfrom the Boogie Machine Band, followed by an outdoor screening of Back to the Future. Tickets are $10/person and can be purchased online at www.lonetreeartscenter.org or over thephone at 720-509-1000. (Pre-purchase of tickets isrecommended, as this event is expected to sell out.)

SATURDAY, September 5, 1–7 pm.A Taste of Lone Tree. (Presented by theLone Tree Chamberof Commerce.) Come to LincolnCommons toexperience awide varietyof delicious food,beer, and wine tastings from morethan 25 local restaurants. There will also be an expanded children’s areaand great entertainment throughout the day. Want to buy a wristband (good for all-inclusivetastes throughout the event) at a reduced rate? Then go to www.eventbrite.com and type“Taste of Lone Tree.” Discounted rate applies through August 3. Tickets will also be available at the gate. For all the latest details, visit www.lonetreechamber.com.

SATURDAY, September 5, 1–4 pm.LTAC Open House.Take your picture on the stage. Explore the technical side of lights, sound, and sets. Discover where entertainment giants RandyNewman and Judy Collins signed our wall. And much, much more. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to take abackstage peek at how theatrical magic is made! No tickets required—just show up.

* Disclaimer: Number of residents is approximate. Does not include recent births, deaths, adult children who have returned home to live in the basement, or houseguests who have stayed so long they probably should be counted asresidents.

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H o w m a n y p i e s c a ny o u m a k e w i t h 4 , 0 0 0p o u n d s o f p u m p k i n ?

We have no idea.But we know it’s enough to make hundreds of

families happy.Happy about fall.Happy about Halloween.And happy that they don’t have to carve or

clean them all!Now in its fifth year, the 2015 Schweiger Ranch

Fall Festival will feature everything residents havecome to love about the event—from a perfectpumpkin patch and a petting zoo to hay rides anda mind-blowing Cave of Confusion.There will also be kid crafts from South

Suburban Parks and Recreation.And activities from Douglas County Libraries.And an Historic Douglas County booth.And free tours of Schweiger Ranch.And free live music from bluegrass band

Caribou Mountain Collective.And yes—there will even be food vendors

onsite as well.So grab the kids or neighbors or friends—or just

your good ol’ self—and don’t miss these fourhours of fun!Get all the last-minute details and insider info

at www.cityoflonetree.com/fallevent.(Or just show up and be surprised.)

Schweiger Ranch Fall Festival.Saturday, October 10, 10 am–2 pm.Free admission; Pick a pumpkin for $5 each.Located southeast of I-25 & Ridgegate Parkway, across the freeway from Cabela’s.

SATURDAY, September 5, 2–4 pm.Get Into Golf Clinic.Bring the entire family to the Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel for a free clinic taught by Lone Tree GolfClub’s teaching professionals. Reduced green fees available to participantswho want to play 9 holes following the clinic.

SUNDAY, September 6, 1–3 pm.Tours of Schweiger Ranch.Come see recently completed restorations of thefarmhouse, barn, and other structures! You’ll also learn about the history of the ranchwith Anne Walton, Schweiger Ranch caretaker,and her mom, Virginia Scally (who raised herdaughters at the ranch in the 1970s). While the tour is free, registration is advised. Please email events@ridgegate.com to secureyour spot.

SUNDAY, September 6, 6–9 pm.Summer Concert in Sweetwater Park.Come celebrate another great summer at this season’s final concert in the park, featuring blue-grass band White Water Ramble.

Labor Day Weekend, September 4–6.Various locations in Lone Tree.Find additional details and last-minute updatesat www.cityoflonetree.com/discoverlonetree.

John Klassen Photo

John Klassen Photo

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It’s true.They know what they’ll eat for dinner—tonight,

tomorrow, and next week.They know when they’re going to buy their first

home, their second car, and adopt their third dogor birth their fourth child.Heck, they can look at a vacant plot of land that

just looks like dirt and weeds and instead envisionthe many ways in which it could be developed,enjoyed, and maximized.It’s almost like they can see into the future—five

minutes, five months, or five years from now—and plan accordingly.Whether you’re a planner or not, you’ll be glad

to know Your City is the planning type.And because October is National Community

Planning Month—yep, that’s actually a thing—Timberlineswants to increase your awarenessabout the important role planners play in communities like ours.

So what’s community planning really about?Planning is all about the future. It’s about making great cities—large and small—happen. It’s about having thriving city centers and

walkable suburbs, and creating safe transit optionsfor cars, bicycles, and pedestrians.It’s about protecting property values while

ensuring a range of housing options, balancingjobs and housing, preserving open space whileproviding recreation access, and balancinggrowth with sustainability.Phew.It’s a lot of things.But it’s not hard to see why it’s especially

important in Lone Tree, when you consider OurCity still has so much room to grow east of I-25.In fact, Lone Tree’s population is expected to

more than double in the next 20 years.But the truth is that community planning is

critical to preparing cities like ours to remain sustainable in an ever-changing world.

So who’s doing the planning?Planners come from a range of backgrounds,

including architecture, geography, public administration, political science, civil engineering,surveying, and law, as well as accredited planningprograms. Here in Lone Tree, the Community Development

Department employs two planners:

Senior Planner Jennifer Drybread, who’s been with the City for 13 years, and Hans Friedel, the department’s newest member.Drybread graduated from the University of

Colorado Denver with a master’s degree in political science, and Friedel has dual master’s degrees from Texas State University in applied geography and secondary education.

Planners have a plan for everything.

Planning doesn’t just belong to City Planners. You, too, can play an important role in Your City’s future. Lone Tree’s Planning Commission consists of seven residents appointed by City Council to serve staggeredthree-year terms. They make recommendations for newcommercial and multifamily buildings, subdivision plats,re-zonings, and changes to development-related policy.

For more information about how you can get involved, visit www.cityoflonetree.com/communitydevelopment, email community.development@cityoflonetree.com, or call 303-708-1818.

Release the planner in you!

Like chess, city planning involves strategy, patience, and the importance of every move. Unlike chess, city planning isnot a game.

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Just ask those who know her. Or those who recently named her the Outstanding Youth ofLone Tree. Sarah Thomas, a newly minted graduate of Highlands Ranch High School, impressed the selection committee with her extensive volunteer experiences, academic achievements, andcommunity involvement. Just how extensive is extensive? For starters, she volunteered at World Vision as part of her association with the Spanish Honor Society. She also took on leadership roles with Family, Career andCommunity Leaders of America (FCCLA). She tutored many of her high school peers. She was named co-valedictorian of her graduating class. And she was a member of the National Honor Society andTechnical Honor Society. On top of all that, she was also able to leap tall buildings in asingle bound! Okay, not that last part. But even so, Her City has now rewarded her for her efforts. With accolades. And a shiny engraved plaque. And a check for $500 (courtesy of the City of Lone Tree YouthCommission and First Commercial Bank). And the right to officially describe herself as Outstanding. “I can’t help but think that—with future leaders like Sarah—this country will be just fine,” noted City Councilmember Harold Anderson, who served on this year’s selection committee.

For information about the City of Lone Tree Youth Commission, visit www.cityoflonetree.com/youthcommission.

There’s nothing so-so about Sarah.

Outstanding Youth of Lone Tree Award winner Sarah Thomas is surroundedby members of Lone Tree’s City Council and Youth Commission, as well as herfamily, at a public award presentation in June. (A member of the Youth Commission helped out by holding the plaque that remains on display at theCivic Center.)

Next up for theLone Tree Symphony Orchestra:

Planetary Pleasures. Friday, October 2, 7:30 pm.

Join LTSO as it opens its 2015–2016season with a fantastic journeythrough space, carrying listenersaloft with Holst’s The Planets,Strauss’ Also Sprach Zarathustra,and John Williams’ Star Wars Suite.

For a complete calendar of LTSO performances and season ticket discounts and information, visitwww.lonetreesymphony.org.

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Open the door and find out. Could be Aunt Anne. Or Uncle Buck. Or maybe a solicitor. Or peddler. Or hawker. If it turns out tobe any of the latter, just knowthat Lone Tree’sMunicipalCode requiresthat all three ofthem registerwith the Cityand get a permit beforevisiting anyhouseholdswithin City Limits. Yes, evenyours! They’re also required to carry thatpermit when walking ourneighborhoods. Why? So residents can be assured that theperson knocking on their door is open abouthis/her identity and intentions. On the flip side, the Municipal Code allows residents to sign up on a ‘No Visit’ list that preventsthese same solicitors, peddlers, or hawkers fromvisiting a resident’s home. Not even sure what those terms mean? Read on for answers to the most commonquestions the City receives on this topic.

What’s the difference between a solicitor, peddler, hawker, and canvasser? In simplest terms, a solicitor attempts to makepersonal contact with a resident for the primarypurpose of obtaining a donation to a particularcause or organization, or for the purpose of distributing a commercial flyer. A hawker or peddler attempts to make personalcontact for the primary purpose of selling a goodor service.

And a canvasser is someone whoseprimary purpose is to enlist support

for or against a particularcause or issue. (Canvassersare encouraged—but notrequired—to registerwith the City and donot have to adhereto the ‘No Visit’ list.)

Check outwww.cityoflonetree.com/solicitation formore-detaileddefinitions andinformation.

How can I beadded to the ‘NoVisit’ list?Call the City at

303-708-1818 orsend an email with

your name, address,and homeowners

association/subdivision to information@cityoflonetree.com.

You can also visit www.cityoflonetree.com/lonetreelistens

to place your request.

What if I don’t know if I’m already on the list? Call or email to find out.

What if I’m on the list and a solicitor stillshows up at my door? You can explain you’re on the ‘No Visit’ list andask the solicitor to leave. If you want, you can report the solicitor usingthe Lone Tree Police Department’s non-emergencyphone number, 303-339-8150. (It’s helpful to dothis while the solicitor is still in the neighborhood.)

What about people I just find generally annoying? Can the City help prevent themfrom knocking on my door? Ummm...Nice try, but no.

Knock knock. Who’s there?

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What's wet and happy and shakes

all over?Saturday, August 15, 7–10 pm.

Prairie Sky Park.

Grab your kids, friends, family members, and apicnic dinner and head to Prairie Sky Park for KidsMovie Night! There will be people. And a playground. And yes, a movie. The event begins at 7 pm with crafts, followedby an outdoor screening of The BoxTrolls at sundown. The Lone Tree Police Department will be onsiteas well. But don’t worry. It’s all good. The police officers will be there to celebrate National Night Out, an annual event to promoteneighborhood safety. They’ll even be handing out free goodies (alongwith practical information) that you won’t want tomiss. So pack up the kids, grandkids, neighbor’skids—any kids—and use this as an excuse toenjoy an evening in Lone Tree’s great outdoors!

Your dog—and every dog—that comes to close outthe season at Cook Creek Pool! In keeping with tradition, the City’s annual Wag-N-Romp event will include some friendly petcompetitions like Best Swimmer, Loudest Barker,and Best Wardrobe. Dogs can also take a splash in the pool, testtheir skills on an agility course, wag for a treat, orsniff other dogs to their heart’s content. There will also be a kids’ craft area provided bySouth Suburban Parks and Recreation, and localpet vendors will show off the latest and greatest inpet products. And if you’re thinking of increasing your caninequota, animals available for adoption will be onsite. So come join Lone Tree’s four-legged residentsas they mark the end of yet another swimmingpool season!

Wag-N-Romp. Saturday, September 12, 10 am–2 pm. Cook Creek Pool. Pet competitions begin promptly at 11 am. Entry into the event and competitions is free, but donations to a local canine rescue will gladly be accepted. Visit www.cityoflonetree.com/wagnromp for the latest info and event guidelines.

John Klassen Photo

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For starters, these eyes will make an appearance during the first-ever regional premiere of an amazingly entertaining performance at the Lone Tree Arts Center. And your eyes, too, can be among the first in Colorado to see,hear, and experience The Explorers Clubwhen it hits the stage thisOctober. Why is that so exciting? Because it’ll make you an official Theater Insider. Because you’ll get to see this highly acclaimed show that’snever been done before in Colorado. And instead of premiering in downtown Denver, it’s here inyour own backyard. Heck, you can be back home and in bed (or back out on the town,if you prefer) faster than you can even spell ‘d-o-w-n-t-o-w-n.’ So grab a friend and check it out. “I never cease to be amazed at the theatrical gems ExecutiveDirector Lisa Rigsby Peterson uncovers,” notes City CouncilmemberSusan Squyer. “And this off-Broadway hit is a prime example of thehigh-caliber entertainment LTAC presents that keeps us in a leadership position in Colorado.”

To purchase tickets, visit www.lonetreeartscenter.org or call720-509-1000.

What do your eyes have incommon with these eyes?

The Explorers Club.

Written by Tony nomineeNell Benjamin.

Directed by Tony nomineeRandal Myler.

Thursday, October 15–Saturday, October 24.

It’s 1879 in London and theprestigious Explorers Club is in crisis: Its acting presidentwants to admit a woman,and its bartender is terrible. While the female candidateis brilliant, beautiful, and hasdiscovered a legendary LostCity, the decision to let in awoman could shake the veryfoundation of the British Empire. Grab your safety gogglesfor some very mad science involving deadly cobras,irate Irishmen, and the occasional airship.

From the award-winning composer and lyricist ofLegally Blonde, The ExplorersClubwas the winner of the2014 Outer Critics CircleAward for Outstanding NewOff-Broadway Play.

Manhattan Theater Club Production. Photo by Joan Marcus.

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Why? Because you can. And because it’s on display just a few miles (or less) from yourhouse. And if you time it right, you can even choose to enjoy drinks andhors d’oeuvres while you’re doing it! Each year—as part of the Commissioners’ Choice invitationalprogram—the Lone Tree Arts Commission supports emerging andprofessional artists by providing a venue for them to display theirwork in a public setting. Up next in the program:

Ingrid Shults: Faultlines of a Saint. Opening Reception: Sunday, August 2, 5–7 pm. Show runs Sunday, August 2–Wednesday, September 23. Lone Tree Arts Center.

Come see her new body of work combining impressionism anddecorative pattern. Based in the San Francisco Bay area, Shults is an artist and educator who has exhibited her work both nationally and internationally in festivals, collections, and galleries. Viewing hours are weekdays from 10 am–4 pm, and prior toLTAC performances. All images are available for purchase via the LTAC Box Office. For more information about the artist, the show, or the Commissioners’ Choice program, visitwww.lonetreeartscenter.org/commissioners-choice.php.

Choose to see ‘choice’ artwork.

Art Expo announces

call for entries.If you’ve ever dreamed of yourartwork gracing the hallowedhalls of the Lone Tree Arts Center, now’s your chance to dosomething about it. Beginning Monday, August 3,artists and dreamers alike canapply online via CaFÉ (www.callforentry.org). An entry fee of $35 is required. Categories include painting,drawing, watercolor, mixedmedia, and sculpture. So what are you waiting for? The application deadline is Friday, September 4. Still have questions? Visitwww.cityoflonetree.com/artexpofor additional details.

Lone Tree Art Expo.Thursday, September 24–Monday, November 9.Lone Tree Arts Center.Viewing hours are weekdays from10 am–4 pm and prior to LTACperformances. All artwork will beavailable for purchase via the LTACBox Office.

Opening Cocktail Reception: Saturday, October 3, 3–5 pm.Music, appetizers, and fun for all!

2014Best ofShow

winner, In HerEyes byDean

Buhler.

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The LTAC Guild supports and promotes the ArtsCenter with ongoing social opportunities designedto raise funds and build awareness. Next up on the calendar:

Tunes on the Terrace Tailgate. Friday, August 7, 6 pm. Come celebrate outdoor music outdoors duringthis tailgate party before Rave On! The Buddy Holly Experience.

Some people actively seek outunique works ofart. Others don’tnotice art unlessthey literallystumble upon it(most likely because they’relooking down attheir phones). Whichevercamp you fallinto, the DouglasCounty Art Encounters program is herefor you. Now in itseighth year, theprogram (fundedin part by the Scientific and Cultural FacilitiesDistrict) showcases sculptures in highly visibleareas in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, LoneTree, and Parker. Why? Primarily to promote public interest and appreciation in art. Also to draw visitors to the areas where theart is displayed, and to add aesthetic value toeach community. So get out there and behold these sculptures. This year, six of them are in Lone Tree. And when you behold one you love, go onlineto vote for it. It could be the next People’s Choice awardwinner. And if you don’ t love any of them, don’tpanic—there will be a new set of artistic wonders next year.

Find information about each of the pieces andthe locations of all sculptures in this year’s collection at www.douglas.co.us/artencounters.

ARTISTIC WONDERSOF (OUR LOCAL)

WORLD.

Opening Night Gala.Saturday, September 26, 6 pm. Join us for this new signature event to celebrate the opening of another great season! Ticket price includes access to the pre-show dinner and cocktails, a ticket to Motown 2 Jersey,and a champagne/dessert after-party withmusic and dancing—and special appearancesby cast members. Cost: $150/person. Experience: Priceless. Purchase gala tickets through the LTAC BoxOffice, online at www.lonetreeartscenter.org,or by calling 720-509-1000.

For more information on these events or guild activities in general, visit www.lonetreeartscenterguild.org.

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It’s not an uncommon question in Lone Tree. As a result, Our City has adopted a Coyote Management Plan. The plan includes a system of tracking coyote sightings and contacts via an online incident reporting system. It also uses education and hazing to help promote a safe environment for both residents and coyotes, and outlines the necessary level of response by managing agencies when interactions occur. So what’s an outdoor-loving or pet-owning resident to do? Stop by the Lone Tree Police Department (9220 Kimmer Drive) topick up a free educational brochure and whistle, which can be attached to your pet's leash or to your wrist beforeleaving the house for a walk. Blowing the whistle loudly—as wellas using other techniques outlined inthe brochure—if you happen to see acoyote can serve to scare (haze) the coyote. And the more that coyotes are presented with negative reactions eachtime they have a casual encounter withpeople, the faster they’ll learn that it’spreferable to simply avoid us.

If you do encounter a coyote, call 720-509-1399 to report the incident/sightingor use the online reporting system at www.cityoflonetree.com/coyotereport.

To learn more about the City’s Coyote Management Plan or for tips about living withwildlife, visit www.cityoflonetree.com/wildlife.

Did you see that coyote?

• Keep garbage in a tightlysealed container.

• In your yard, remove petfood, fallen fruit, and spilledseed beneath birdfeeders.

• Use yard lights or motion detectors to frighten coyotesaway.

• Keep pets in fenced areas orcovered kennels.

• Stay with your pets andsmall children while outdoors.

• Do not allow pets to runloose; keep them on a leash.

• Do not intentionally feedcoyotes or let your pets play

with them.

• If you see a coyote:

- Frighten the animalwith loud noises (usinga handy whistle, for example).

- Throw rocks orsticks at them.

- Do not run. Stand your groundand make yourselflook big by wavingyour arms andyelling at them.Teach children todo the same.

How tokeep youand yourpets safe

from coyotes:I really

hate peoplewhistling at

me!

16

Th

e G

re

en c o r n e r

“Give me mulch or give me...well, youknow.”Put simply, I love mulch! Especially whenI’m newly planted. It protects me fromgetting injured by lawn mowers andweed eaters, and those of us luckyenough to have a mulch ring typicallyhave 20% more early growth. If we’renewly planted, please don’t mulch overthe root ball! If we’re “more established,”try to keep mulch back 6 inches from thetrunk.

“I get dehydrated, too!”Sure, you tell visiting friends and family to drink lots of water, but then you forget about me. During times of low precipitation, we also need water! Use a hose if your sprinkler system isturned off during fall/winter months—we won’t mind. (Check out www.ext.colostate.edu/pubs/garden/07211.html for more infoon watering.)

“Wrap us up when we’re young.”Use paper tree wrap on those of us thatare young and recently planted. Wehaven’t yet developed protective bark.Apply the wrap around mid-November,and remove it in April.

“There’s a right time—and a wrongtime—to prune me.”Structural pruning is typically done in latewinter, before we break dormancy. Avoidpruning during the spring growth flush.Mid-summer pruning is preferred forspecies such as maples, elms, and aspensthat are prone to bleeding if pruned in thespring. Extensive pruning in late summeror fall will remove a source of nutrientsfor us and may also stimulate late-seasongrowth that may leave us susceptible tofreezing injury. Of course, pruning of broken and dead branches or smallbranches can be done at any time.

“Fall is a great time for us to makefriends!”It’s a good time to plant us, but rememberit’s best to plant container-grown trees atthis time of year. (Balled-and-burlappedand bare-root trees are best planted inthe spring).

If your trees could talk,here's what they'd (probably) say...

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If you loved her in Lone Tree’sArbor Day Tree Seminar, you’lllove her even more in the sequel, Fall Tree Seminar. Douglas County ExtensionAgent for Horticulture JaneRozum stars in what’s sure to beanother fantastic presentationon Saturday, September 26,from 10–11 am in the LoneTree Civic Center (8527 LoneTree Parkway). Space is limited to the first50 registrants, so save yourseat with an RSVP tojulius.zsako@cityoflonetree.com.

Tick, tock. Tick, tock.You’re not getting

any younger.Tick, tock.In fact, you may be

old enough to join this illustrious group of well-seasoned live-ers of life.So come find out what they’re up to.It’s usually something fun.And interesting.And aimed at the overachievers

among us who even want to age well!

LUNCHEONS.All luncheons are held at Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel.Cost is $12/person.Non-Lone Tree residents are welcome to attend.Please RSVP to LivingandAgingWellinLT@gmail.com or call 303-225-4930.

Monday, August 10, at 11:30 am: South Platte Park: A Virtual Tour of the Park Today, presented by SSPRD.

Monday, September 14, at 11:30 am:Preparing Your Papers: What to Keep and How, presented by Douglas County Libraries Archivist Adam Speirs.

Monday, October 12, at 11:30 am: Collectibles Roadshow. Want to participate in this fun event? Then be sure to plan ahead! Bring your item to have it photographed during the August or September luncheon. (If unable to attend either luncheon, contact Joyce at lew_j@msn.com for an appointment.) You’ll be asked to describe your treasure and how it came into your possession. Then bring it to the presentation on Monday, October 12, to find out whether it’s worth millions. Suggested donation: $5 per item. One item per household. Limited to the first 25 items.

HAPPY HOURS.Held at The Lone Tree Grill in the Lone Tree Golf Club & Hotel.Food and drink specials. No RSVP required. Held on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

Wednesday, August 26, 5–7 pm.Wednesday, September 23, 5–7 pm.Wednesday, October 28, 5–7 pm.

For more information, visit www.cityoflonetree.com/agingwell.(But you might want to hurry, before your last tock has ticked!)

She's back!

Have a landscape questionor problem that can’t wait untilthe seminar? Contact the Douglas CountyMaster Gardener Hotline at720-733-6935 ormgardenr@douglas.co.us.

18

That’s the catch phrase to remember if you find yourselfin need of emergency services. That’s right: Douglas County residents can now sendtext messages to 9-1-1. Why is that a good thing? Because texting to 9-1-1 provides access for thehearing and speech impaired population. It also provides an alternative to reach help when avoice call is not possible.

So here’s how to text to 9-1-1 in an emergency: • Enter “911” in the “To” field. • The first text message should be brief and contain the location of the emergency and type of help needed. • Push the “Send” button. • Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker. • Text in simple words; don’t use abbreviations. • Keep it brief.

When to text 9-1-1: • If you are hearing impaired. • When a voice call could increase a threat. • If you are injured and cannot speak. • If you are in a remote location and can only send a text message.

Call if you can,text if you must. Hey.

Yeah.

Hi.

Seriously?

Wish I knew more about what’s going on in The LT.

I love Timberlines but Icrave more info, man.

Dude. LT makes it easy.

Follow @CityofLoneTreeon Twitter.

Or CityofLoneTreeCO on Facebook.

Or get added to the City’s various email lists at www.cityoflonetree.com/enewssignup.

Nice. I feel smarter already.

Sweet. Done!

Nice.

19

Look for this column in each issue for updatesregarding the Southeast Rail Extension(SERE), scheduled for completion in 2019.(Yep, that’s just four short years away!)

Here’s the latest:

• In June, the Lone Tree PlanningCommission and City Council completed final plat approval to subdivide 34.34 acres into 5 lots anddedicate road right-of-way associatedwith the SERE’s RidgeGate Station.This plat will create legal lots for conveyance to RTD as well as right-of-way that will be dedicated to theCity of Lone Tree.

• Lone Tree City Council finalizedagreements with project partnersin July.

• RTD staff recommended the RTD Boardof Directors move forward with proposalfrom Balfour Beatty Infrastructure Inc. to design and build the SERE.

• The contract is scheduled to beawarded to Balfour Beatty Infrastructure Inc. in third quarter 2015.

• Final design of all three stations willtake place between now and thirdquarter 2016. This process will includepublic workshops to finalize design elements. (See proposed rendering ofthe Sky Ridge Station below.)

Visit www.rtd-denver.com/SoutheastRailLine.shtml for more information.

Everybody’s doing it...and so should you.

CCs and EFTscome to LT.The good news: You can now pay for City taxes, services, and fees via credit card(Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) or electronic fund transfers (EFTs). The bad news: You still have to pay them. But at least now you have more payment options. An online payment option is now available for court fines, recyclecarts, business license applications, and tax payments as well. So try to control your excitement long enough to log onto thelinks below.• Court payments: www.cityoflonetree.com/onlinecourtpayment.• Recycle cart order form: www.cityoflonetree.com/onlinecartorder.• Business Licenses: www.cityoflonetree.com/onlinebusinesslicense.• Tax payments: www.cityoflonetree.com/onlinetaxpayment. The fine print: A 2.3% service fee will apply to all credit card transactions(though not applicable to court fees, surcharges, and fines). There is no fee for payments made by EFT. Still want to write a check? Go right ahead—we’ll still accept them. Have questions? Call 303-708-1818.

Seriously. It’s becoming that popular. So if you’re a business owner in Lone Tree, go ahead and try it. Follow the masses of businesses moving to online tax filing. Because completing sales tax returns and making paymentsonline is easier. And more efficient. And doesn’t require piles of paperwork. Tax payments can be made using an electronic payment from abank account or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, and Discover). A 2.3% service fee will apply to credit card transactions. There is no fee for electronic fund transfers. Interested businesses should call Lone Tree’s finance departmentat 303-708-1818 for a PIN number. That PIN—along with your City account number—will allowyou to create an account on www.xpressbillpay.com. (For a quick tutorial or other helpful links for first-time users,visit www.cityoflonetree.com/salestax.) Once the account is set up, simply select “City of Lone Tree, CO”as your e-bill provider, and voilà! Just like that, you’ll be part of the ‘in’ crowd.

20

It’s (still) summertime inRidgeGate.

• Tuesday, August 25, 6:30–7:30 pm: Yoga in the Park. Join RidgeGate, SSPRD, and the Lone Tree Recreation Center for a free yoga class inBelvedere Park (at the corner of RidgeGate Circle and Belvedere Lane). No yoga experiencenecessary, and no registration required.

• Thursday, August 20, 5–8 pm: Walk Concert, featuring Rastasaurus. Enjoy music under the stars and on the grass atPrairie Sky Park, courtesy of SSPRD. Vendors, entertainers, and art activities from 5–6 pm, with live music from 6–8 pm. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and the whole family!

• Guided Nature Hikes. Led by professional naturalists from SSPRD, thesefamily-friendly hikes offer a chance to get some exercise and take in the great outdoors. All hikes are at Willow Creek Trail unless otherwise noted, and registration is required.

Tuesday, August 11, 7–8:30 pm: Black bears and bluffs.

Saturday, August 22, 10–11:30 am: The hawk over our homes.

Saturday, August 29, 7–8:30 pm: Full moon hike.

Saturday, September 19, 8:30–10:30 am: Noticing nature. (Meet in the parking lot of Bluffs Regional Park.)

For all the latest going on in RidgeGate—includinggeocaching, archery, campfire stories, and more—or to register, visit www.ridgegate.com/events.

Photos courtesy of RidgeGate.

So grab a friend and get outdoors for these fun, free events.

The Lone Tree Chamber of Commerce is geared up for fall!Join them at the following events:

Business After Hours.Thank you to member businesses who volunteer to host thesepopular monthly events!If you’ve never experienced one, here’s what you need to know:• Held on the first Wednesday of each month from 5–7 pm.• Open to community members ($15 fee for nonmembers) whowould like to learn more about the Lone Tree Chamber, as well asmeet and mingle with members.

Business Connections Luncheons.These luncheons give members and nonmembers alike the opportunity to network, listen to an educational speaker, andpresent a 90-second “commercial” about their business—all while enjoying a delicious lunch.Cost is $15.

A Taste of Lone Tree.Saturday, September 5, 1–7pm.Lincoln Commons.See page 6 for all the details about this popular event!

For information about any of these events or the Lone Tree Chamber of Commerce, visit www.lonetreechamber.com, call 303-792-3282, or email chamberinfo@lonetreechamber.com.

21

But you can get a free university education.Really.All you have to do is register for

any of these one-hour classes onLone Tree’s sales and use tax laws,and you’re officially admitted intoSales Tax University.We know—it seems too good to

be true:You get to learn all the latest in

City tax news, and it doesn’t evencost you a dime!So what are you waiting for?Classes begin at 2 pm on the

following days and cover the following topics:

Friday, August 21: Sales Tax.

Friday, September 18: Use Tax.

Friday, October 23: Medical Sales & Use Tax.

Sessions are geared towardLone Tree businesses and are heldin the Juniper Room at the City ofLone Tree Municipal Building,9220 Kimmer Drive.Reserve your tuition-free seat

today by contacting Scott Hall,CPA, at 303-708-1818 ext.1288 orvia email at scott.hall@cityoflonetree.com.

Lone Tree ChamberNews and Notes.

There’s nosuch thing asa free lunch.

Jump in, cool off.Don’t forget to take advantage of the last of

the Lone Tree Pool Days, when City residents get into Cook Creek Pool for free:

Sunday, August 9.Sunday, August 16.

(Make-up date, if needed.)

Proof of residency is required.

22

For a complete list of South Suburban Parks andRecreation District (SSPRD) events, classes, andprograms, visit www.ssprd.org.

Live Music on the Patio.Don’t let summer slip away without checking outone of the local bands on Friday nights at TheLone Tree Grill!Enjoy drink and dinner specials on the patio

from 6–9 pm. Free admission and parking.

Tantalizing Tastes series.Enjoy five food courses paired with five beveragesin an intimate, relaxed setting at Lone Tree GolfClub & Hotel.Cost is $36/person.Age 21 & over only. Seating is limited, and

reservations are required.Call 303-790-0202.Next up in the series: Tuesday, August 11, 6–8 pm:County Fair Edition.Tuesday, October 13,6–8 pm:Fall Harvest Edition.

The latest from SSPRD.Punch card special.Receive 5 free admission punches with the purchase of a 30-punch card (and 2 free puncheswith the purchase of a 15-punch card) during the month of September!Valid for admission to all

South Suburban recreation centers. Punch cards offer

discounted admission fees and never expire.

Child Discovery Time at Lone Tree Recreation Center.Considering preschool for your young one?Then you may want to check out the licensed

preschool program at the Lone Tree Recreation Center. Options include

programs for 21⁄2 –3 year olds as well as Pre-K programs. Call Tiffany Stogsdill

at 303-483-7075 for more information or to register.

Rob Hanna named as new executive director.After an extensive national search, Coloradoan Rob Hanna is SSPRD’s new executive director.He was most recently the director of parks,

recreation, and golf for the Town of Castle Rock. During his tenure there, he was involved in the

design and construction of Philip S. Miller Park, a300-acre park that includes zip lines, syntheticfields, an outdoor amphitheater, core plaza withsplash pads, an adventure playground, and the Epic Adventure Tower.Hanna also developed the first intergovernmental

agreement with the Douglas County School District,providing for the joint development and use of facilities to reduce capital construction and increase availability of recreational facilities for the community.Hanna replaces David A. Lorenz, who retired

earlier this year after 30 years in the executive director role.

Lone Tree Library offers way morethan just books.

23�

Check out the events below, or visit www.douglascountylibraries.org for a completelist of activities, book discussion groups, and more.Events are held at the Lone Tree Library, unless

otherwise noted. Registration is usually required (with library

staff or online).Have questions? Call 303-791-7323.

Lego Club.Kids ages 7–11 meet to build andtalk about what’s new in theworld of Legos. First Tuesday of each month.Tuesday, August 4, 4 pm.Tuesday, September 1, 4 pm.Tuesday, October 6, 4 pm.

Art Stop on the Go!Budding artists are invited to cultivate their innerPicasso through literature-based art projects onthe third Tuesday of each month. Led by representatives from the Boulder Museum

of Contemporary Art.Ages 6–12.Tuesday, August 18, 4 pm.Tuesday, September 15, 4 pm.Tuesday, October 20, 4 pm.

Teen Library Council.Have a teenager who needs volunteer hours?This is a great opportunity for teens to have a voice,advocate for their peers, plan events, recommendmaterials, and volunteer in the community.

Thursday, August 13, 7 pm.Thursday, September 10, 7 pm.Thursday, October 8, 7 pm.

Business Start-Up Basics.Tuesday, August 18, 6:30 pm.Adults learn the basic requirements of starting abusiness, including registration, financing, andbusiness planning. Presented by the Small Business Development

Center of South Metro Denver.

Shorty Sock Hop.Tuesday, September 8, 4 pm.Kids shimmy, shake, and shout while buildingearly literacy skills through music. Ages 18 mos.–4 yrs.

U.S. Citizenship Class.Saturdays, September 12, 19, and 26, 9:30 am.Adults learn what is necessary to become a UnitedStates citizen, including completing necessary application paperwork and reviewing U.S. history,government, and other information in preparationfor the interview. Registration required for all 3 classes.

Simple Science.Saturday, October 17, 10 am.Come discover, play, and learn at interactive stations designed for children and their parents. Topics may include Sink or Float, Fun with

Magnets, Patterns Everywhere, and How Big, How Tall? Ages 4–7.

Fall Fest.Saturday, October 24, 6 pm.Families are invited to celebrate the season in costume and enjoy stories, crafts, candy, andgames.

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 {

Ready? Okay! Timberlines takesthe West Coast bystorm!At least when inthe hands of LoneTree residents and competitive cheerleaders Madison, Madelyn,Brooklyn, andCamryn when they recently traveled to a cheer competitionin Anaheim, California.

Timberlines goes on tour with The Carpenters!A tour of beautiful San Francisco with the Carpenter family of Lone Tree, that is. Familymembers brought along their favorite readingmaterial just in case they tired of looking at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge on a picture-perfect day.