UPDATE: The Denver Betterment Committee is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance the beauty of the community. Established in 2000, this dedicated group has actively worked to improve the aesthetics of Denver through various projects and events.
In a recent statement, committee member Caryl Tjaden revealed that there are currently 14 active members who meet regularly to organize beautification efforts and support local businesses. Tjaden emphasized, “Our purpose is to give the streets of Denver a more appealing look to residents and visitors passing through.”
One of the committee’s landmark projects includes the installation of 24 ground planters adorned with flowers, replaced from the previous hanging baskets due to maintenance challenges. These planters, equipped with welcoming signs, have become a vibrant addition to the downtown area. Local volunteers diligently maintain these flowers, showcasing a community spirit that thrives on collaboration.
The committee has also placed two memorial benches at downtown locations, specifically at the drugstore and the restaurant AllyKatz. Tjaden noted that these benches were sourced from Kay Park Recreation in Janesville, reinforcing their commitment to keeping purchases local.
Other community enhancements include providing picnic tables, children’s digger backhoes, and decorative elements like glider swings and welcome flags. Notably, the committee transformed a previous floral display spelling out “Denver” into a more durable rock formation, eliminating seasonal maintenance issues.
Seasonal decorations, including cornstalks, scarecrows, and winter decor, have delighted residents and visitors alike. However, Tjaden mentioned that while the scarecrows were popular, the group has decided to discontinue them.
A poignant tribute was made in memory of Tjaden’s late husband, a former high school teacher, by planting a tree near the elementary school where he taught for 26 years. This tree stands as a living memorial, cherished by the community for the past six years.
The annual “Old Fashioned Christmas” event remains the committee’s crowning achievement, drawing significant participation since its inception in 2003. Tjaden was inspired to bring this festive spirit to Denver after attending a similar event, leading to an overwhelming response with over 27 trees, eight wreaths, and three poinsettias displayed last year. The event also features decorated table settings and gingerbread houses, alongside a popular raffle.
Last year alone, the event attracted more than 500 votes for favorite decorations, showcasing the community’s enthusiastic involvement. Tjaden expressed her delight at the event’s evolution, noting, “It’s been fun to see how it has evolved over the years.”
As the committee continues its work, it has seen an increase in donations and grants, enabling them to fund various projects. Recently, they purchased a string of lights in memory of loved ones, which now illuminate the evergreen trees across from City Hall. The gratitude from the community is palpable, with Tjaden sharing, “It pays to do those things, and you just feel good. You feel like people appreciate it.”
The Denver Betterment Committee is actively seeking new members who want to contribute to these impactful projects. As they celebrate their quarter-century of service, the commitment to beautifying Denver remains stronger than ever.
Stay tuned for further updates as the committee continues to expand its efforts and engage the community in new and exciting ways!
