10 16 NO COMPROMISES REACHED: SMILEY’S LAUNDROMAT STILL AT IMPASSE by Caroline Schomp The future of the old Smiley’s Laundromat building at Colfax Avenue and Downing Street remains up in the air. Conflicting concerns about parking and historic preservation are keeping a planned development from progressing. Property owner CIG Investments’ plans include two stories of below-grade parking; ground floor, marketplace-style retail; one floor of co-working space; and five stories with 184 residential units. The current zoning code requires approximately 200 parking spaces, which would be difficult to achieve while preserving the 1930s-era building. It would necessitate excavating under the existing building, which would present structural problems. According to CIG’s Vice President of Real Estate Tim Bertoch, “What’s becoming an issue is how to preserve the building and still provide sufficient parking to make a long-term viable project. For us to achieve the scale that would allow us to make this project successful and bring that type of activation to that area requires us to redevelop the entire site.” It’s estimated retaining the existing building would reduce parking availability by more than 50 spaces. Swallow Hill Neighborhood Association’s Teresa Caballero and husband Alex Torres said the project as planned is exciting. “Finally someone is coming to invest in this area of Colfax and we need to encourage them,” Caballero said. “We hope Historic Denver and the developer can come up with a compromise. But,” she added, “parking is a huge concern and it’s not clear if the parking would be enough for the project they have planned.”
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Brandon and Michael of Mountain Drones, Inc., prepare to launch a one of their drones in Cheesman Park this past September. Mountain Drones specializes in avalanche mitigation and has received considerable press. Visit mountaindrones.net to learn more. Photo by Jeff Hersch CIG filed in May for a Certificate of Non-Historic Status, which would allow it to demolish the building. Historic Denver, Inc. countered with an application to designate the building as a landmark, contending it is a significant example of Art Deco and Streamline Moderne architectural styles. Moreover, Historic Denver said the building is of historic significance on Colfax Avenue. It originally was a commercial hub for the neighborhood and later became Smiley’s Laundromat, which opened in 1979 and acquired a unique identity as a community landmark, billing itself as the world’s largest laundromat with 182 washers and 170 dryers. CIG withdrew its application and negotiations have continued. Recently, CIG met with representatives from
BUSINESS RENT INCREASES SPARK GAME OF MUSICAL CHAIRS by Lucy Graca Denver’s leading economic indicators are up—way up. The metrodenver.org website September economic indicators reports employment is up 3.6 percent over the last year, foreclosures are down 38.2 percent and 8.4 percent more people are flying out of DIA this year. The downside is the number of all types of retail spaces available for lease or sublease is down almost 5 percent, and this has pushed Denver retail rents
up by about 35 percent since July 2013, according to loopnet. com, a commercial real estate site. Even so, some businesses have seen rent increases of as much as 300 percent, depending on where they’ve opened their doors. So many businesses in Cherry Creek, on Capitol Hill and in other high-rent districts are moving to lower-rent areas, like Englewood, South Broadway and RiNo. Sometimes catastrophic rent increases occur when a business has been in the same location, or has had the same landlord, for decades and ownership changes. Such was the case for Rene DiBenedetti of Rene’s Maison des Fleurs and his friend, Sally Starr of Starr Antiques. Both were renting stores on 6th Avenue at Milwaukee Street, Starr for 23
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Historic Denver, the Colfax Ave Business Improvement District, Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods and the Swallow Hill Neighborhood Association. “It’s frustrating that neither side [Historic Denver or CIG] brought new ideas or solutions to the last meeting. It seems like they’re just reinforcing their positions,” Torres said. “We hope the building will be retained, or at least a substantial part of the building left intact,” Historic Denver’s Annie Levinsky said. Nevertheless, none of the parties involved have come up with an agreeable compromise. continued on page 12
years from a long-time owner based in California. When the property owner became incapacitated, his daughter hired a property management firm which decided the building was technically in Cherry Creek and tripled the rents when leases ended. After a year of looking around, Starr found a new home at 1560 S. Broadway. DiBenedetti followed a year later to 1462 S. Broadway. Both say their businesses are thriving at their new locations, and they credit this to heavier foot traffic and their proximity to Antiques Row. Another refugee to South Broadway is well-known “rock‘n’-roll-lifestyle” emporium FashioNation and conjoined Babysitters’ Nightmare (motto: “From the cradle to the grave”). Formerly on East 13th Avenue on Capitol Hill, the double business is now ensconced in the old Packrat Antiques space on the corner of South Broadway and Iowa Avenue. continued on 10
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EDITORIAL editor@denvermetromedia.com Press releases, calendar listings, story ideas, news tips due by October 21st for the November issue, published the first Wednesday of each month.
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HAVE YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS PUBLISHED IN LIFE ON CAPITOL HILL! Maybe you noticed this month the usual Instagram images were missing from the cover? We’re changing things up, but please keep submitting! Remember: while you’re out in the neighborhood include hashtag #CapHillStill. As ever, the content is up to you. What are we looking for in a great photo? Make sure your photos are clear, bright, and representative of what’s going on in neighborhood. Also, tag the location of the photo so we can see where exciting things are happening. Avoid using certain frames and filters that heavily distort the original image. Finally, make sure the photo is something you (and anyone else in the photo) are okay having published in the paper.
Follow us on Instagram @DenverLifeNews, on Twitter @DenverLifeNews, and at facebook.com/lifeoncapitolhill for more local news and photos throughout the month. Happy snapping! -Life on Capitol Hill Staff Masthead photo: @yoginiontheloose & @yogarockstheparkdnv Photo by Bryan Lopez
EDITORIAL such as Dora Moore K-8 School, Again this month I am aceditor@lifeoncaphill.com cepting an outside submission Press releases, calendar listings, story ideas, Morey news Middle School and East tipsthe due Editor’s by October 21st for the November issue, High School. for Note. published the first of each month. As a parent of Dora Moore This month weWednesday are running and Morey students, I unletters submitted to our three ADVERTISING derstand the importance of papers, the Washington Park sales@denvermetromedia.com the history which animates Profile, Life on Capitol Hill and 303.831.8634 buildings to which my chilNeighborhood Life, in support of Get your message to your neighbors in City Park West, dren travel every day for their Initiatives 3A and 3B. Whittier, San Rafael, Uptown, Curtis Park, Five Points, classes. Both of these neighborAll three are written by and RiNo. hood schools are filled with the residents living in each paper’s grand stories of famous people circulation area. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU in history who have walked —Haines Eason, Editor, Monthly 2006 @DenverLifeNews their hallowed halls. UnfortuDenver Metro Media since nately, a robust history does @DenverLifeNews create some wear and tear, and 615 E. Jewell Ave. Denver, CO it’s time we show these schools facebook.com/neighborhoodlife 80210 a little love so they are in good shape for future generations. InPress November, bond and mill Colorado Association levy initiatives will be on the 2016 member ballot asking Denver voters whether or not they will inject by Rebecca YourMason photo here! ®2016 desperately-needed dollars into Denver Metro Media Denver ALL RIGHTS Public Schools. Funds Capitol Hill has a long, rich RESERVED will help schools across the history spanning back to the entire district, but as a resident 1800s. We’ve seen decades of of Capitol Hill, I am paying both boom and bust contribute close attention to the funds to a diverse urban population. that could go to the schools in One place where we continue to our neighborhood. come together is in our public Dora Moore, Morey and East schools. are the bedrock Follow us on Instagram Maybe you They noticed this month the have all made on the list of the of our neighborhood and the @DenverLifeNews, Twitter usual Instagram images were 18 hottest schools missing from the cover? We’re starting point for most lifelong @DenverLifeNews, and atwithin DPS, facebook.com/neighborhoodlife changing things up, but please keep reaching up to 86 degreesforat friendships, and they bring more local Any news Morey and photos throughsubmitting! Remember: while you’re times. parent can communities together at the out the month. out in the neighborhood include tell you about their children afterschool ballgame, choir hashtag #CapHillStill. As ever, the conwearing shorts and T-shirts in Happy snapping! content up to you. cert oris belt-busting bake sale. the dead ofLife winter -Neighborhood Staff because the Those of us who choose to What are we looking for in a great heat radiates year-round. live in the city do not take Masthead photo: photo? Make sure your photos are The ballot proposals also inits history forrepresentative granted. Weofare @yoginiontheloose & clear, bright, and clude $56.6 million in operating just as invested in the stories @yogarockstheparkdnv what’s going on in neighborhood. dollars for proven Photo by Bryan Lopez classroom Also, tag the location of the photo so behind the buildings as in the we can see where exciting things are initiatives which would help bricks and mortar itself. As a happening. Avoid using certain frames close the $2,000 gap between neighborhood, we distort have been and filters that heavily the Colorado education funding fortunate toFinally, maintain of original image. makemany sure the and average education funding photo is something you (and anyone our historic educational spaces,
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across the nation. If the bond and mill levy are passed, all three schools would receive classroom air conditioning among many other maintenance and programming upgrades. Dora Moore, built in 1899, would gain approximately $80,000 from the bond for school-determined investments. This is in addition to investments in classroom-level air conditioning, safety upgrades and classroom modernizations. Similar to East and Morey, school leaders would get to decide which high-impact investments would be made at their individual schools. Morey, built in 1920, would receive over $2.5 million for school-determined investment such as new science labs, art rooms, furniture and technology. Additional funds would also go toward cooling solutions, building repairs, safety upgrades and waterline replacement. These investments would help with the introduction of a new high school on this campus, Denver School of Innovation and Sustainable Design, a small, Tier 1, Gifted and Talented high school. As Morey teacher Bertie Fiz says, “Our school hasn’t been set up for 21st-century learning. The bond and mill adjustments would take students’ learning to the next level.” East, built in 1925, would be given approximately $500,000. In addition, upgrades would be made to safety features, classrooms and shared spaces, such as the football field and gymnasium. Funding would cover classroom-level air conditioning solutions and improve existing cooling and ventilation systems. For these schools to remain part of Denver’s educational legacy, we need neighbors to cast their votes in favor of the initiatives. We’re counting on you.
else in the photo) are okay having published in the paper.
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CHUN TO HIRE OUT MANAGEMENT OF PEOPLE’S FAIR by J. Patrick O’Leary Following five years of declining revenue from the Capitol Hill People’s Fair, Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods (CHUN) will outsource production of the event and shift its focus to improving and renting out the Tears-McFarlane House to fund its community work. CHUN bills the 45-year-old community event as highlighting local historical roots and community attributes and bringing together a diverse population to celebrate family, entrepreneurial spirit and community. Held in Civic Center Park, the People’s Fair attracts an estimated 200,000 to 250,000 guests and volunteers each year, showcasing community organizations, handcrafted items, fine arts, artisan foods, craft beers and entertainment. “It will still be CHUN’s primary
fund raiser, but no longer run in-house,” says Executive Director Roger Armstrong. CHUN’s Federal tax-exempt organization filings show revenue and net proceeds from the event have declined steadily since 2007. Gross revenue fell 43 percent, from $649,136 to $328,241; after-expense proceeds dropped 63 percent, from $372,559, to $120,075. Despite declines, Armstrong says 2006 to 2010 were “pretty steady, decent revenue years.” The fair grossed over half a million dollars in 2010, netting CHUN $271,957. But then competition and weather took their toll. “The competition has just been incredible,” Armstrong says, noting Denver will host 700 special events this year, while 10 years ago there were no other special events on the weekend of the People’s Fair.
And, rain during two of the past five events reduced attendance and affected sponsorships. “Our return on investment has to work for the beer, liquor and soft drink sponsors,” Armstrong said. “If they get a few bad years in a row, they’re not as likely to find it worthwhile.” Beverage sponsors give CHUN a check plus product at a reduced rate, Armstrong explains. Drinks are then sold at a mark up at seven beer booths, eight soft beverage booths and five liquor gardens. “They’re all staffed by nonprofits, and they get a percentage,” Armstrong says. Revenue also comes from booth rental. Corporate sponsors like State Farm and Pepsi are charged for booth space. Community groups—anywhere from 75 to 100 each year—are offered booth space at a reduced rate in the nonprofit showcase. On top of that, fairgoers pay for food and beverages with tickets, which CHUN sells for $5 continued on page 14
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5 GREAT FREE EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED THIS MONTH 1
Friday, Oct. 7: Free concert with John Fullbright and guest MC, Comedian Deacon Gray in Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave., 6-9p.m. John Fullbright got his start at the legendary Blue Door listening room in Oklahoma City. His 2012 studio debut, From the Ground Up, received a Grammy nomination for Americana Album of the Year. Info: levittdenver.org.
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Saturday, Oct. 8 and Thursday, Oct. 20: Urban Market in Skyline Park, 16th Street Mall and Arapahoe. A cornucopia of local arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, antiques, furniture, holistic services, unique treasures, delicious food and just about anything else you could want. Have fun in the sun while supporting local artists, businesses and community. Open 11a.m.-7p.m. Info: 720-272-7467 or urbanmarketdenver.com.
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Saturday Oct. 22: Zombie Zone is the annual family zombie event at the Denver Pavilions, 500 16th St., featuring fun horror-related vendors, activities and a zombie fashion show early in the evening. Open noon-5p.m. Info: 303-260-6001 or denverpavilions.com.
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Saturday, Oct. 22: The Denver Zombie Crawl holds the Guinness World Record for the largest zombie event. That’s a lot of undead Denverites! You’ll laugh, you’ll scream, you’ll come to appreciate all the creativity that exists in Denver—at least in the underground world of the undead. Skyline Park, 16th Street & Arapahoe, noon6p.m. Info: denverzombiecrawl.com.
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Thursday, Oct. 27: Union Station’s Halloween Parade & Party. Little ghosts and goblins can enjoy a spooky celebration featuring trick-or-treating at merchant shops, a costume parade and a contest with prizes for best costume and best group/family costume. There might be a scare here and there, along with great adult drink specials and fun!. 1701 Wynkoop St., 4-7p.m. Info: 303-592-6712 or unionstationindenver.com.
DPD AND COLFAX AVE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT PARTNER TO CONDUCT ADDED PATROLS by Haines Eason At the request of Colfax Ave Business Improvement District (Colfax Ave BID), on-duty Denver District 6 police officers will soon be conducting an additional 100 hours of foot and bike patrols along East Colfax Avenue in the blocks near the capitol. Specifically, the patrols will focus on the 200 to 600 blocks of the
iconic Denver strip, roughly between Sherman and Pearl streets. The patrols are the result of “walkabouts” conducted in the summer of 2015 by Colfax Ave BID Community Director Frank Locantore, Denver Police Department officers, local business and property owners and Assistant City Attorney Chris Gaddis. The group walked roughly four to five blocks a week on Colfax for five
weeks and made an assessment of the state of safety and crime in the area. As a result of the walks, Colfax Ave decided to spend $30,000 this August to hire Mile High Protective Services (MHPS), a contract security firm, and off-duty DPD officers to conduct patrols. Those patrols were conducted by teams of two, with both MHPS and DPD handling scheduling.
“We’ve definitely seen encouraging progress in the first three blocks from the capitol,” says Sara Randall, Public Information Coordinator for Colfax Ave BID. “Our goal is to dramatically reduce crime on Colfax. To do that, we are continually evaluating the effect we’re having and are making modifications to improve our impact.” Randall says though the pa-
trols are having a positive effect, both DPD and Colfax Ave BID are asking numerous questions and are trying to figure out what the effects in other areas will be. “We’re trying to figure out what the outcome of the positive effect is,” Randall says. “What will we have to do if [crime] moves somewhere else? Is it going to a different part of the city or a different part of the district?” Jack Curtain of Front Range Services, located in Commerce continued on page 18
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CITY COUNCIL by Debbie Ortega In 2014, I had the opportunity to participate in the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Executive Energy Leadership Program. As a part of the program we were required to do a class project. For my project, I developed a five-year plan or roadmap to enhance awareness and preparations about fuel cell vehicles between Denver and Colorado agencies. My intent was to set the stage for statewide readiness for fuel cell vehicles in Colorado. Colorado is one of 42 states that do not mandate that automakers sell zero-emission vehicles, which has traditionally been used by states to develop the supportive infrastructure to attract fuel cell and other electric vehicles. In absence of the mandate, Jack Paterson from my office has been working with the Colorado Hydrogen Coalition to develop the regulatory framework to allow for the development of
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the necessary infrastructure for fuel cell vehicles. I am pleased progress has been made over the past three years. Information about the benefits of fuel cell vehicles was conveyed at meetings in 2014 with the Denver Office of Sustainability and Department of Environmental Health. Both offices recognize the benefits of fuel cell vehicles and the importance of being open to their commercialization. The potential is noted in Denver’s formal long-term sustainability plan. In 2015, the Colorado Hydrogen Coalition drafted legislation providing authority to the Division of Oil and Public Safety to regulate hydrogen dispensing. In 2016, the legislature approved the legislation. The Colorado Division of Oil and Public Safety has worked with stakeholders to develop comprehensive and straight-forward regulations, setting standards to be applied across the state while being flexible to meet the needs of a developing technology.
With the uniform minimum requirements and regulations in place, Colorado is now open for construction of hydrogen fuel cell stations. The fuel cell vehicle industry and US Department of Energy have taken notice of how Colorado set the stage for development of the fuel cell industry without mandates on automakers. Exploratory discussions are underway to attract the first commercial fuel stations. Development of the fuel stations will position Colorado well when automakers extend sales and lease opportunities beyond California and the initial fleet applications being developed in the northeast states. You may wonder why I have been involved in state and federal efforts to support fuel cell vehicles. I believe the development of zero-emission vehicles is important for our health and our climate. The health impacts of fossil fuel vehicles on near-highway neighborhoods have been devastating. Elevated rates of asthma and cardiovascular disease result from constant exposure to emissions from fossil fuel vehicles. Climate change and its resulting effects have the potential to negatively impact life in Denver. It is only prudent that we start work on many levels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on our climate and health.
There are a wide range of important initiatives for Colorado voters to consider this election. Up for consideration are amendments and propositions on topics ranging from healthcare to the public consumption of pot. Several contentious initiatives did not make the ballot. For a list of those initiatives, visit ballotopedia.org and search “Colorado 2016 ballot.”
Amendment 69—Creation of ColoradoCare System Currently hundreds of thousands of Coloradans don’t have health insurance. Amendment 69, also called ColoradoCare, is a healthcare payment system designed to decrease the number of uninsured residents. ColoradoCare would be primar-
ily funded through a 10 percent payroll tax, two-thirds of which will be paid for by employers and one-third by employees through a payroll deduction. Proponents say it will provide comprehensive coverage and save families and businesses over $4.5 billion annually. Detractors say it is an expansion of state government that will increase taxes and make Colorado a less financially attractive place to live.
Amendment 70—$12 Minimum Wage This amendment would increase the state minimum wage from $8.31 per hour to $9.30 per hour on January 1, 2017. The rate would then increase 90 cents per year every January 1 until it hits $12 per hour on January 1, 2020. After that, it would annually adjust for cost of living increases.
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Amendment 71—Imposition of a Distribution Requirement for Citizen-Initiated Constitutional Amendments This initiative would make it more challenging to get a constitutional amendment on the ballot in Colorado. The current requirement is for petitioners to collect signatures from registered voters equal to 5 percent of the total number of votes cast for the Colorado Secretary of State in the last general election, which is roughly 98,500. Signatures can come from voters anywhere in the state. If it passes, signatures from at least 2 percent of registered voters in each of the state’s 35 Senate districts would need to be garnered. It would also increase the number of votes needed for continued on page 11
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An easy elegance and a slower pace are evident at White Lies, the evening concept from Black Eye Coffee at East Eighth Avenue and Sherman Street. Signature cocktails are all the rage now, but White Lies' are truly exciting.
BUSINESS column and photos by J.L. Schultheis Price
OPENINGS: WHITE LIES A little white lie never hurts, but this one might prove addictive. It’s just one of several intriguing bar concepts that debuted recently. White Lies is the evening concept offered at Black Eye Coffee, 800 Sherman St. Black Eye Coffee opened last October but took longer than anticipated to refine and reveal its evening concept. You won’t see any signs of White Lies if you grab an a.m. coffee. Each day the coffee biz ends at 4:00p.m. The bar and upscale dining space emerges an hour later. It’s an amazing transformation with a few unexpected touches. The pastry case disappears. Can-
dles light the space. The mirror façade behind the coffee counter swivels to reveal an impressive bar on six rotating doors. The spirit offerings are impressive and number nearly 400. The dinner menu was entirely reworked. One choice says “Trust Us.” You can choose the hungry or the starving option and the staff will make your selections. It’s designed to take the work out of dining. Cocktails come in two sizes— singles and shares. They divide into two sections—Ringers and Alter Egos. Co-owner Steven Waters explained, “They’re mirror image drinks named in honor of Denver’s many famous past poets.” White Witchcraft is tequila-based and dark as pitch. Black Revenge is its opposite. These and other beverages are designed to complement specific entrées and
Mark Thompson, center behind bar, introduces customers to over two dozen Colorado craft breweries at his Congress Park Taproom, 833 Colorado Blvd. Casual and comfortable are the words to remember here.
appetizers. “It’s been great,” Waters said. “We have regulars coming in for dinner then coming back more frequently.” One appealing item is the vintage sherry cart that is offered after dinner. It underscores the relaxing atmosphere and the educational elements that White Lies utilizes. Dinner begins at 5:00p.m. Closing is midnight Sunday-Thursday and 2:00a.m. on Friday and Saturday. The bar’s website is drinkwhitelies.com. Don’t miss the bathrooms. Books on tape play excerpts from the poets of Poet’s Row. When’s the last time you witnessed that? Don’t bring your laptop either. They’re not allowed during evening hours.
B&GC Don’t ask me what this name means. Couldn’t tell you because no one’s telling me! Mystery is evidently essential to this launch. One theory circulating is the name should evoke life in the '50s when the Boys & Girls Club emerged. The magazine-format menu is packed with '50s imagery and comments on those days of cocktail craft. B&GS is, in fact, a clandestine drinking spot
beneath the ruins of the old post office. After some daunting personal research, I can state it’s definitely a speakeasy and part of the new Halcyon hotel complex in Cherry Creek North (CCN). Back in the days of Prohibition, back alley bars operated in unlikely locations. A phrase like “Bennie sent me” was the spoken key needed to enter. Here, you enter off the alley between Josephine and Columbine in true speakeasy style. The B&GC website—bandgcdenver.com—takes minimalism to the edge. It features an image of a golden doorbell and a phone number—720-925-8598. Text for a reservation. Confirmation comes with directions. Find a nondescript, cinder block façade and a distinctive doorbell. Then ring. If you pass the identity screening at the door, an associate leads the way down a long staircase and through the hidden corners of 245 Columbine. Once inside, you’ll wish you’d brought a flashlight. The light levels are indeed dim. Take a few minutes to let your eyes adjust before you pull out that smart phone and fire it up. To launch this concept, Sage offered memberships, which come
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with perks, including the ability to make reservations days in advance. Memberships are now closed but non-members can drop in if they jump through the hoops. The club is small—seating is I’d guess no more than 60 at capacity—so your best chance is to check it out early in the evening. I’m told crowds are smaller before 8:00p.m. Menu offerings include several pages of craft cocktails. “New Money” is one signature drink built with single batch bourbon and smoked vermouth. Those blends run $15 each. There’s also wine by the glass, ranging $12 to $45 per glass, beer and both savory and sweet eats. Deviled eggs, devils on horseback, caviar and bittersweet chocolate mousse are just a few of the offerings. As far as speakeasy offerings go, this one’s likely to appeal on several levels, including wowing out-of-town guests.
CONGRESS PARK TAPROOM If your alcohol consumption preferences or your budget lean toward the casual, there’s a new choice for you, too. It’s Congress Park Taproom, 833 Colorado Blvd. The space last housed Twisted Cream, an alcohol-infused ice cream shop. Owner Mark Thompson is a former petroleum engineer seeking a new career in the wake of the recent oil crash. He personally retrofitted most of the space, creating a deep bar that’s topped with sheets of copper. “I paid someone for the beer system,” he admitted. “I didn’t want to mess it up.” There are 30 beers on tap and four wine selections from Infinite Monkey Theorem of Denver. Some beers and ciders have earned a permanent spot and others rotate when each keg is dry. Most, but not all of the beers are Colorado craft. “I have one Wyoming beer on tap right now and just ordered a New Mexico brew,” he said. Thompson thinks of his venture as bringing numerous craft breweries to the neighborhood so residents can visit many in one sitting. Tuesday is trivia night. Wednesdays feature a pub run for joggers. Half a dozen flat screen TVs cater to sports fans. There’s
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Yes, that’s the name. Make, Believe. The comma is intentional and is added to make folks pause and consider the merits of vegan baking. The lovely customer service space is new; folks used to have to knock and wait outside. popcorn and board games but no other food. Thompson says neighboring Falafel King and Swing Thai eateries will deliver your order. Hours are Monday-Thursday, 2:00-11:00p.m. and Friday 2:00p.m.-midnight. Weekends, 10:00a.m.-midnight. Happy hour runs from 2:00-6:00p.m. on weekdays. Find the list of what’s on tap at congressparktaproom.com.
THE SPRING CAFÉ Spring came and went before I stumbled upon this new(ish) café at 1373 Grant St. In early December, Spring Café will celebrate its first anniversary but you need details now because this is a business whose mission speaks to the soul. If you were a fan of Pizza Fusion as I was, you can guess the end goal here. Fusion helped homeless folks gain job skills. Spring offers job training for refugees and helps them gain the confidence to work in the service industry. Manager Marin Toscano sees this effort as a great extension of the work the café’s parent, the non-profit Spring Institute, does in the area. For customers, it’s a win-win. “We want to create an atmosphere of cross-cultural exchange by having a café where customers can learn a little bit about their refugee neighbors while enjoying a cup of coffee,” she said. “We have international trivia questions for customers to guess, exhibit art by or about refugees and host events in line with our mission.” In coming months, the café’s staff hopes to prepare foods for the shop. “We would like to start featuring ethnic foods in our grab-andgo food menu. Some ideas are samosas, spring rolls and soups,” Toscano added. For now, Etai’s salads and sandwiches compete with scones and other pastries for your snacking dollar. There are also empanadas and oatmeal options, fair trade organic coffees and tea, plus fruit and cheese plates. The program’s goal is to help refugees who need extra help. “Spring Café intentionally hires the refugees that are still struggling with English and/or customer service skills so that
they can gain more hands on training through our program,” she said. Workers put in 20 hours a week and are paid a wage. They also get help with issues like cash register operations and chatting with customers. The interior space is full of light, is nicely decorated and boasts a fireplace. There’s also a spacious east-facing patio in the First Baptist Church courtyard. The church gives office space to Spring Institute and its mission. The café is open weekdays from 7:00a.m.-5:30p.m. It is also available for special events on Saturdays. It also can cater company breakfasts and lunches. There’s 30-minute parking in a lot off Grant Street if you’d like to check out “coffee with a conscience.” Call 303-835-1124 for details.
MAKE, BELIEVE BAKERY Yes, that’s a comma in the company name. Make, Believe is so named to create a pause that provokes thought. It’s also the new retail name for Watercourse Bakery, the all-vegan, mostly gluten-free place at 214 E. 13th Ave. near Sherman Street. After years of baking for City, O’ City and Watercourse Foods, the bakery is finally open to the public. You don’t have to order at the restaurant next door. When Dan Landes first opened Watercourse Foods in the space next to the bakery, it was one of the area’s first vegetarian restaurants and a runaway hit. Then, City ‘O City took its place when Watercourse moved to East 17th Avenue in Uptown. Landes still owns City ‘O City but last year sold Watercourse Foods. He selected the bakery name. For years, folks have been knocking on the bakery’s door. Now you can step inside the colorful storefront with its Mason jars full of colored sugars and front case stuffed with both gluten-free and gluten-full cupcakes and other treats. Zucchini carrot biscuits and cakes are also offered. Make, Believe takes GF seriously. There’s a special room for preparing goods with non-gluten flours that’s separate from the main prep to minimize contamination. Bakery manager Randa Duffy
The masterpiece bar topped with green bamboo granite still remains at The Goods restaurant, 2550 E. Colfax Ave., but the menu is totally different from prior eateries in this space with vegan, vegetarian and carnivore options getting equal weight.
is enjoying the retail interaction and the chance to make custom orders that are sensitive to food allergies or other dietary concerns. She said roughly 45 percent of the products are GF. There’s even one bread loaf that qualifies. A popular seller is the sweet potato cinnamon roll—an offering Duffy says they hope to add to their GF menu one day. However, the biggest seller is the scout cookie—a blend of walnuts, coconut and shredded sweet potato on a base of dark chocolate. It’s the size of a hockey puck. Special orders like a soy-free birthday cake require 48 hours notice. But any time you get an itch for vegan pastry, you can now eyeball the selection daily. New fall flavors are on the way and you can pick up a cup of coffee, too. Hours are weekdays 10:00a.m.-
6:00p.m., weekends 9:00a.m.5:00p.m.
THE GOODS “Vegetarian. Vegan. Carnivore.” The headline says it all; The Goods is an eatery that offers something for every palate. In the 2550 E. Colfax Ave. space just vacated by The Good Son, owner/operators Seth Murty and Mark Whistler are dishing up dinners and brunch, six days a week. At night, The Goods features everything from pulled pork sandwiches called “Sandys” to vegan mac ‘n’ cheese with roasted garlic. Paleo diet? No problem. There’s a bowl for that. Desserts even get their due with house made ice creams in a trio of flavors and a trio of cakes. Since the place first opened as Encore years ago, a wood oven has been part of the magic. That
oven is still turning out woodfired veggies and even bone marrow. There’s just no pizza on the menu. There’s an aggressive bar program to complement the diverse menu. Some of the 15 Prohibition-style cocktails on the menu are barrel-aged, including one dubbed the Colfax Boulevardier. The eatery also partnered with local winery Jack Rabbit Hill to create four custom-blended house wines. The rest of the list includes many offerings from family-run wineries. Whistler is an author and investments guru who wanted a new way to live; Murty brings extensive restaurant experience to the space. When the two met— just two months ago—they knew they wanted to open this type of restaurant. continued on page 8
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The Colorado table near the front door of Scout & Molly’s features a host of clothing and accessory designers from our state. Paintings along the wall artfully capture the daily dressing ritual.
Business
continued from 7
Murty once worked for the U Baron Group and it feels right for him to fill their shuttered Good Son space. The private dining area has morphed into a kids’ room where youngsters can dress up or draw on the walls while they wait for their meals. Whistler said the goal is to be a truly family-centered eatery. Dog centered too. The patio’s dog friendly and each four-legged guest gets a marrow bone for entertainment. Residents of surrounding areas should request the neighborhood card that offers numerous discounts. There are two main dining areas, plus the elegant, green, bamboo granite bar that has survived each incarnation in the past decade. Ample doesn’t begin to cover the outdoor patio. While most of the restaurant
is up and running, Goods plans to reopen a doorway near Colfax Avenue that connects the space to the Tattered Cover. That was part of the original design but was closed off during The Good Son’s tenure. Soon, the wide doors will return. The eatery has already put in place a comprehensive plan to support East High School across the street. Students can apply for jobs and an internship is also in the works. A dollar of each lunch entrée goes to support East fundraising goals. Next up is the addition of dance lessons and instructor-led dancing on Saturday evenings. 303-355-5445 is the phone number. The business is open Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00a.m.-10:00p.m. The full menu should be up at thegoodsrestaurant.com.
SPINSTER SISTERS
Sales Manager Randy Dillow demonstrates the work desk for folks who cannot break away to work out. Bring your laptop and walk while you work at TruFit, Cherry Creek’s sprawling new athletic club.
I’ve interviewed Kelly Perkins twice since June. She’s opened two new retail locations for her Spinster Sisters all-natural body products line in that short stretch of time. And she’s still standing. “Cherry Creek North is well known for supporting Colorado companies with great locally owned galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. We appreciate that kind of support, and love being surrounded by all that local talent,” she said of her CCN location selection. I had to ask Perkins how many more shops she envisions. “The sky is the limit at this point. The Colorado community is really focused on shopping locally, and shopping small businesses. We are so lucky to be located in that kind of environment, as we really feel the support and love first-hand from our customers.” This third space is larger than
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the RiNo one opened this summer. It can offer bulk products sold by the ounce. “We will also have an expanded “Mix Your Own” section where customers can come in and mix their own scent of Body Butter, Sugar Scrub or Salt Soak,” she said. “We look forward to helping more customers transition to body and skincare products that are locally made and free of harsh ingredients.” The address is 2628 E. Third Ave. A grand opening party is slated for Saturday, Nov. 12, with drinks, snacks, special discounts and giveaways. 844-SPINSTER is the phone number and hours are Monday, 11:00a.m.6:00p.m., Tuesday-Saturday 10:00a.m.-6:00p.m., Sunday noon-5:00p.m.
SCOUT AND MOLLY’s CCN has another new women’s clothing shop with an emphasis on styling services. It’s Scout and Molly’s, which just opened its 20th location—the first in Colorado—and tribute is paid to Colorado designers here. A local artist created a series of canvases to illustrate how women dress for the day. An entire table is dedicated to Colorado works. One designer specializes in SPF clothing that limits the wearer’s sun exposure. “We like to bring in unusual pieces at a nice price,” said owner/operator Nesa Opp. The front of the shop is stocked with casual attire. Step further inside and you’ll find career wear with dressy attire in the back. Some attire is imported, some made in the U.S. Opp and her staff throw in styling services at no extra cost. “We love your price point. We love your service.” Those are the comments Opp said she started hearing as soon as the doors opened. She believes CCN lacked her approach to women’s wear. A broad range of sizes is available and the target demographic is ages 29-65. Community is important to Opp and her company. The company supports Dress for Success and Mothers of Preschoolers efforts to empower women around town. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 10:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Sunday,
doors open at noon and shut at 4:00p.m.
CHERRY CREEK JEWELERS There’s a new custom jewelry designer now open in the former Elizabeth Lindsay boutique shop at 3033 E. Third Ave. Owned by Kien Quach, the space features onsite design work and a variety of unique styles. Phuong Nguyen is the master jeweler and designer. He’s also Quach’s brother. “I always wanted to own a jewelry business. I owned a hair salon for 25 years,” she said. “I’ve been asking Mr. Nguyen for the past three years to get into the business with me.” According to Quach, her brother designed a ring for her three years ago. She can’t stop looking at it or wearing it. “You look at his pieces and you never get bored of them,” she explained. Nguyen’s credentials also include designs for high-end clients, including the wives of many Broncos players and coaches. For Nguyen, this venture marks his return to CCN. At one time he worked for John Attencio and then Trice Jewelers. While the majority of work is custom design, there’s also a strong repair business. “We have a lot of walk-in traffic for repairs. Some bring us repairs that weren’t done right to fix,” Quach added. She wants area shoppers to know there’s a price benefit from eliminating the middleman. “We have really good prices because we design our own stuff.” The shop also replaces batteries for watches and sells some estate pieces. Cherrycreekjewelersdenver.com is the web address and the number is 303-9531107. Hours are weekdays from 10:00a.m.-7:00p.m., Saturday 10:00a.m.-6:00p.m.
KAITLYN COLLECTIVE Jeans and cashmere look so appealing together. From casual to very dressy, Kaitlyn Collective at 3035 E. Third Ave. provides women’s clothing with blue, black and white being the dominant colors. This is Kaitlyn Martin’s new business. Her mother is her business partner.
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TRUFIT ATHLETIC CLUBS You won’t recognize the old Key Bank building at 3300 E. First Ave. There’s a new front on the old office building and the bank’s (mostly) gone. In its place is TruFit Athletic Club. This is the company’s seventh location in the state. The 28,000 square foot fitness studio covers two floors. “We’re just a great workout club. We’re the best value in fitness in Colorado,” said sales manager Randy Dillow. There are multiple approaches to fitness under this roof. “We have a private yoga studio as a feature of the club,” he added. Downstairs, you’ll find numerous boutique features desired by CCN residents and the Key Bank vault. “The women’s locker room is through the vault door, so it’s pretty unique,” Dillow added. One room even sports astroturf if you want to drag sleds full of weight and work out like a football player. Equipment brands include Life Fitness, Hammer Strength and Skills Mills. Life Fitness offers an app that counts reps and sends them to your phone. The studio also includes three working desks for folks who find work is getting in the way of their workout. Bring your laptop. Plug in and walk while you work. “It’s pretty unique to the Denver (fitness) market,” he said. Membership details are available at trufitcherrycreek.com. Come January, the parking garage under construction will open behind TruFit—a welcome feature in CCN.
McNEIL DESIGNER PORTRAITS After 27 years in Littleton, it was time for a move. So photographer Craig McNeil leased a new home at 2930 E. Sixth Ave. to showcase his take on family portraiture. “Most people would rather do a group root canal than take a family portrait,” McNeil explained. He’s joking but is not far off the mark. It takes effort and organization to achieve a group get together. Over the years, McNeil has developed a strategy that gets everyone to the photo shoot.
His specialty is location shooting and he seeks spots that have special meaning to the clients. He’s traveled all the way to Ireland for a shoot. Before the date is set, McNeil spends time consulting on the design elements. He feels that yields a better final product. With so many smartphone cameras out there, he has to compete. “I have to be able to produce something that you cannot,” he said. When the shutter snaps, the work is not finished. Portraits are then enhanced and textured. Some are also hand-painted to add depth. The process is explained in detail at mcneildesignerportraits.com. Not surprisingly, most of his clients are moms who want to preserve family moments for the future. After all, photos are usually the first thing grabbed when disaster threatens. The studio also does school portraits for grads and even pooch shots. McNeil’s company is well known for Dogs of Denver, a series of books featuring Denver dog glamour shots created to raise funds for canine charities. His son, Sean, worked on the Dogs project then joined Craig full time. 720-981-9705 is the studio number.
RHYTHM REVOLUTION Next time you pass The Chop Shop casual eatery on East Colfax Avenue at Elm Street, check out a pair of new businesses on that block. Rhythm Revolution at 2990 E. Colfax Ave. is a cycle and yoga studio where music is key. Owner/instructor Jasmine Anderson said, “It’s all about the music and the rhythm and moving to the beat … what that does to the brain.” Anderson also teaches other fitness professionals how to incorporate music effectively to really connect with clients. “I want people to know they are not going to hear Top 40 music in our classes. Our mantra is really tapping into the senses. What does it sound like? What does it feel like?” It’s about what it feels like to move—the tempo, the rhythm. You can also check out one of Anderson’s live cycling concerts. “We take the bikes to non-traditional locations,” she explained. Participants get to work out in unusual spaces as bands play. Events are listed on rrtribe.com and on Facebook. This music focus comes naturally to Anderson who’s also a DJ with ties to the underground music scene in Denver, dating back nearly two decades. Rhythm Revolution opened on East Colfax Avenue several months ago after a lengthy location search. “Community is massive for us. We use the studio for events. We are not just a cycling studio. We do a whole lot more and our intention is to do a whole lot more in the community.” The website lists over 25 classes each week. The first week is free unless you’re using ClassPass.
COMPUTER DOC
Just west of Rhythm is Computer Doc at 4956 E. Colfax Ave. It’s a repair and networking operation. This is the first storefront for Doc, which launched its mobile repair business in 2011. “We see that Colfax is starting to be fixed up and wanted to be part of it,” said owner Glenn Brinegar. His company clientele includes home users and small businesses. The hourly charge for a home visit is $89 per hour but Brinegar says his technicians get a lot done in just 60 minutes. The company repairs both Macs and PCs and sells DIY electronics kits along with robotics and drone kits. Weekday hours are 9:00a.m.6:00p.m. Saturday, the shop is open from 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m. The website has more: compdocdenver.com. The phone is 303-333-1864.
After many years at 1244 E. Colfax Ave., Act II Consignment has vamoosed. The company started down south before expanding to Colfax and still operates its original shop at 1500 W. Littleton Blvd. There’s also an outlet at 4011 S. Broadway.
FLOW JUICE BAR Located at 208 East Seventh Ave., one door east of sister establishment Max’s Wine Dive, Flow Juice closed for a second
The area’s well-known liquor supermarket has expanded its offerings even further. This time, it’s the addition of Boar’s Head cheeses and meats, plus sausages, crackers, pretzels, nuts, jerky, lemons, limes and a lot more. One of the more unusual offerings is chocolate-flavored whipped cream in a can. A wide selection of pickles, olives and cherries are natural additions. If you’re looking for a gift, there are also food and wine baskets and other combinations. Argonaut sits on the southwest corner of East Colfax Avenue and Clarkson Street. Hours are Monday-Thursday, 8:00am11:00p.m., Friday-Saturday, 8:00a.m.-11:45p.m. and Sunday 10:00a.m.-10:00p.m. Call 303831-7788 for details.
CLOSINGS HOTCAKES “Thanks for all the memories.” Just a short, sweet note is all that’s left at Hotcakes Diner on East 18th Avenue at Humboldt. The area’s anchor eatery for decades, Hotcakes closed its doors in early September.
ROOSTER & MOON COFFEE PUB I remember when Rooster & Moon at 955 Bannock in the Golden Triangle opened almost eight years ago. The area was just about to catch fire and R&M developed a strong following. That run is about to come to an end. On Sept. 7, the quartet behind R&M posted a farewell message on the café’s Facebook page. “It is a strange sensation when you find yourself in a moment that is both heartbreaking and thrilling at the same time. We find ourselves on the precipice of such a moment because, after much thought, meditation, tears, debate and a fair amount of wine, we have decided not to renew our lease. "At the end of September, we will be closing Rooster & Moon Coffee Pub.” It’s likely that a new concept will snatch the space up rapidly.
WOK UPTOWN After a kitchen fire this summer, WOK Uptown at 1789 Ogden St. remains shuttered. It appears the well-established takeout place may not reopen as planned. Signage still indicates that plan but the eatery’s phone number is no longer in service. Send your business news to jeanne@lifeoncaphill.com.
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“This is a new venture for the both of us! We opened online in April and opened our first storefront in CCN on June 11th,” she said. “Our goal is to offer fashion pieces with a timeless style for all parts of your wardrobe. From casual to cocktail, we focus on carrying items that will be with you for longer than one season.” Her lines come in sizes XS-L. Personal styling service is also offered. Martin is energized by this new venture. “There is no better feeling than watching your clients leave feeling like they got exactly what (they were) looking for and feeling fabulous in what they are wearing.” Hours are Monday-Saturday, 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m. The number is 970-590-2743 and kaitlyncollective.com is the web address.
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Congresswoman Diana DeGette has been representing Colorado’s 1st Congressional District since 1997 when she succeeded Pat Schroeder. This fall, DeGette is running for her 11th term. In the spring, DeGette defeated Democratic challenger Chuck Norris, winning 86 percent of the vote. Republican Casper Stockham, an Uber driver, author and Christian marriage coach, is her adversary in November. While registered voters across the state are almost evenly divided as Democrats, Republicans and Independents, Denver County, which is the heart of DeGette’s district, is another story. According to the Secretary of State’s website, as of Aug. 31, there were 183,327 registered Democrats, 54,910 Republicans and 121,782 unaffiliated voters in Denver County. Colorado is a purple battleground state and its nine electoral votes are of tremendous interest to both presidential campaigns. The rise of Donald Trump has surprised and shaken the political and media establishments. When asked about the Republican nominee, DeGette said she believes he has tapped into the feelings of a subset of the
Rents continued from 1 FashioNation/Babysitter’s Nightmare experienced virtually no increase in rent since 1987 at the 13th Avenue location, but when the building sold, the new owner not only tripled their rent but also required them to make $30,000 in upgrades to the plumbing and electrical system, along with a 10-year lease. “He implied that he wanted a high-end, ‘nice’ store there or a restaurant,” says co-owner Pam Italiano, who has handmade many of the clothes that make FashioNation and Babysitters’ Nightmare unique. Whatever the new owners may have wanted, a barber shop now occupies their old 13th Avenue address. On the flip side, at least two businesses have moved farther south on Broadway over the line into Englewood. Birdsall & Co.’s landscape design showplace saw a 30 percent rent increase in the last year and 500 percent in the last four years. “Furthermore, once the construction on South Broadway concluded, property taxes increased, creating ‘a perfect storm,’ said co-owner, Annie Huston. “That’s when all the cannabis stores arrived willing to pay anything and everything.” Birdsall & Co. has occupied a two-lot area to display its sculptures, fountains and other yard ornaments and finally found a space with enough square footage at 2870 S. Broadway in Engle-
electorate, many of whom have yet to recover from the recession and may harbor fears of foreigners. She also partially credited the media with Trump’s ascent, saying, “I think the media needs to reflect on how they helped build him as a national figure. Especially early in the primary season, he was given much more uncritical press than any other Republican candidate.” In addition to the presidential nominees, another highly contentious topic this election is guns. Gun safety has been a legislative priority of DeGette’s for years. Colorado has been hard hit with some of the worst mass shootings in history, including the tragedies at Columbine High School and the Aurora theater. “You would have thought that after Columbine, Aurora and Sandy Hook we could have done something,” DeGette said. “What’s been so frustrating in Congress is that no matter how terrible or gruesome the shooting, we have a moment of silence, time passes and nothing happens. The reason is the NRA and gun advocacy groups are the strongest lobbying groups in Washington. “What Republicans are afraid of is if they come out in favor of any gun bills, the NRA will run candi-
wood. They’ll reopen on Saturday, Oct. 1. South Broadway’s Flossy McGrew’s seemed no more, its wildly unconventional costume store on South Broadway R.I.P.ing about seven months after owner Suelynn “Grandma Goth” Gustafson died. Construction and a rent increase to $8400 a month were the nails in the coffin. Recently, however, Gustafson’s son T.J. has found 5,000 square feet at 2645 S. Santa Fe Dr. in Englewood in which to display Flossy McGrew’s incredible collection of Goth-and-death-related clothes, hats, signs and oddities. A recent visit revealed manager Tamara Pidhayny and her mother trying to figure out how to display the thousands of items they were unpacking, including a life-sized giraffe. “We never know what we will find when we open a box,” she said, picking a disembodied mannequin arm from a stack. T.J., anticipates an Oct. 1 opening for Flossy’s new location, just in time for Halloween. Hard hit in the rent squeeze is Cherry Creek North. Tam O’Neill isn’t moving her art gallery at 311 Detroit St. but says new business owners there need to take more into consideration than the high rent per square foot. Property taxes that were $12,000 in 2000 are now about $19,000 for the same square footage, she said in a recent interview. Tied to them is a mill levy that rises and falls with the taxes to support the Cherry Creek North Business Improvement District (CCNBID).
Congresswoman DeGette seeks her 11th term in the upcoming general election. dates against them,” she added. “They are afraid of losing in a primary [to an NRA-backed candidate]. It’s going to take average citizens saying ‘enough is enough’ and voting. What the NRA has counted on is that the public will not see this as an important issue and people will not vote on it.” There is some evidence more Americans are warming up to gun safety measures. According to a Sept. 12 Time magazine article, “polls show about 9 out of 10 Americans now support universal background checks and a majority support bans on high-capacity continued on 18
“It’s not a very transparent or accountable system,” says a business owner who did not wish to be named. Add to the costs the noise and traffic disruption caused by apparently endless construction, and several businesses have simply decided to call it quits. Eccentricity at 290 E. Fillmore St. is one such business which closed its doors Sept. 15, and Harman’s Eat and Drink will follow in October, apparently preferring its Aspen and Carbondale locations. Some owners, though, such as Patrick Finney of FINN Real Estate, have different ideas. “When I sell homes to people who are renting and I tell them they’re throwing their money away, I decided to take my own advice,” he said. “Why should I rent and throw my money away and have somebody subject me to a 55 percent increase?” Finney purchased a location on South Pearl Street where he plans to build shared temporary office spaces, becoming the landlord rather than the renter. “If you don’t own the land, you’re at their mercy,” said District 10 Councilperson Wayne New, whose district includes Cherry Creek, Capitol Hill and the Golden Triangle. “It’s a problem all around the city. Rising rents mean Denver is losing a lot of unique gathering places.” Voicing a common concern of business owners about big national chains replacing small local businesses, New added “the chains can spread their costs over hundreds of small places, while small business owners can’t.”
11 Ballot continued from 4 passage from a majority to 55 percent, unless the proposed constitutional amendment only repeals, in whole or in part, any provision of the constitution.
Amendment 72—Tobacco Tax Increase Passage of Amendment 72 would increase the tax on cigarettes by $1.75 per pack of 20 and other tobacco products by 22 percent. The money would be used to fund health-related programs.
Proposition 106—“End-of-Life Options Act” The “Colorado End-of-Life Options Act” would make it legal for individuals 18 years of age and older who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and have six months or less to live to receive life-ending medication that they would self-administer.
Proposition 107—Presidential Primary Election; Proposition 108—Unaffiliated Elector Voters who were frustrated with the Colorado’s presidential candidate selection process will be happy to hear there are two opportunities to change it. Proposition 107 would bring back open presidential primaries to Colorado and would have them fall before the end of March. An open primary would allow independent voters to participate without having to affiliate with a political party. Proposition 108 would also permit voters registered as independents to participate in primary elections without having to affiliate with a political party. The opening of Colorado’s primaries would be significant because, according to the SOS’s website, there are more registered independents in Colorado than Democrats or Republicans. The exact numbers are 1,044,207 independents, 976,141 Republicans and 973,460 registered Democrats. Proposition 108 would also give parties’ members, in certain circumstances, the option to choose candidates by convention or committee instead of holding a primary election.
Amendment T Amendment T would update the Colorado Constitution, written in 1876, and eliminate language that references slavery and permits forced, unpaid labor by convicted criminals. The amendment was unanimously approved for the ballot by the Colorado State House and Senate during the last legislative session.
Amendment U Amendment U would grant property tax exemptions for business interests using government property for personal gain where the property value is $6,000 or less. From the Colorado Blue Book: “Beginning with tax year 2018, [Amendment U would] eliminate property taxes for individuals or businesses that use government-owned property for a private benefit worth $6,000 or less
in market value; and, beginning with tax year 2019, and every two years thereafter, adjust the $6,000 exemption threshold to account for inflation.”
3A and 3B—Funding for Denver Public Schools Colorado is currently 42nd in state funding for education at $2000 per pupil below the national average. Because of the TABOR amendment, state education funding has been flat for the past seven years and is not likely to increase anytime soon. DPS is asking Denver voters to approve a mill levy and bond to help close the funding gap and improve educational opportunities for all Denver’s kids. 3A would provide $56.6 million to expand social and emotional student supports and enrichment, increase coaching and supports for teachers, provide targeted literacy training and interventions for young struggling readers and expand college and career opportunities for secondary students. 3B is a $572 million bond measure which would be used for increased safety, maintenance and upgrades as well as the improvement of facilities’ energy efficiency. It would also provide money for cooling solutions in schools without air-conditioning, allow for updated fire protection and security systems and fund new buildings, as needed. Because older bonds have been paid off, 3B will not increase the district’s bond payment property tax rate. 3A will increase property taxes by approximately $10 per month for the average Denver home.
4B—Denver Metropolitan Scientific and Cultural Facilities District 4B is a resolution from the Denver Metropolitan Scientific and Cultural Facilities District asking voters to continue supporting the almost 30-year-old district for another 12 years. It will be on the ballot in Arapahoe, Adams, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson Counties. Funding comes from one penny on every $10 spent in sales tax. Over 300 diverse organizations of all sizes currently share the approximate $54 million which is annually generated from the tax. More than 14 million people, including 4.2 million children, attend free or reduced-rate SCFD programs every year.
Initiative 300—City of Denver Cannabis Consumption Pilot Program This measure is a pilot program that expires on December 31, 2020 if not re-authorized by City Council. It would permit the social consumption of marijuana at some businesses such as bars, yoga studios and art galleries. The establishments must have the backing of a neighborhood group or business improvement district, and they must be granted a permit. Permits could be granted for one-day events or be up to a year in duration. For more information on the November ballot initiatives visit the Secretary of State’s website at sos.state.co.us.
CASPER STOCKHAM TALKS ECONOMIC DISPARITY, GUNS AND DEBATES by Haines Eason This fall well-known Congresswoman Diana DeGette of Colorado’s First District has a challenger: Casper Stockham of Aurora. Stockham doesn’t feel his lesser-known status will slow him down given what he sees as the economic disparity—and discontent—between Colorado’s white voters and its black and brown constituents. “Downtown Denver’s doing great,” he says. There are cranes everywhere, there’s construction, there are jobs, there’s opportunity… But still, the black and brown communities are suffering, and I feel I pretty much know what the problem is, and I believe I can do something to change that.” Stockham feels the disparity of economic opportunity seen between white communities and communities of color is most stark in Five Points, especially along Welton Street. Stockham
cites now out-of-business Selman’s Records as an example of a property threatened by what he sees as outside interests—interests that do not represent the people of color who call the neighborhood home. “What I want to do is I want to save Selman’s from being taken away by the city and torn down,” he says. “[The city] has been going systematically down the block of Welton and buying out and replacing those structures with something else. “I know people would like to revitalize Five Points and basically wipe out all the black businesses that are currently there. I say that with certainty because that’s what happening right now. Black businesses are being replaced with non-black businesses, and the old iconic black businesses are being bought up, torn down and replaced with condos.” When asked why he is
focusing first on communities of color, Stockham says those are the communities that are hurting right now. If, he says, we can help them first, we can help all neighborhoods as a whole. Stockham is concerned with more than just business opportunities and development. Also on his radar, as on everyone’s, are the Trump candidacy and guns. His “Save Selman’s Records” press conference on Sept. 12 brought a crowd of forty to fifty attendees, one of whom displayed a Trump sign in addition to a sign backing Stockham. When asked his position in regards to the Trump candidacy, Stockham says “I really don’t care who is president as long as that person is supporting the things I’m trying to do in the community. “I’m not [seeking office] to be the best Republican I can be, I’m going to be the best representative I can be who happens to be Republican.” “[Trump] was not my first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth or whatever choice,” he adds. continued on 18
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ASSISTANCE LEAGUE TO SELL LONG-STANDING HEADQUARTERS by Nancy Foster Whether one is a baby boomer, the parent of a baby boomer or a millennial, trying to rid ourselves of years of collected clutter seems to be a common
theme. Also common nowadays: downsizing our homes from suburban living to urban living or moving into tiny spaces where owning a car is discouraged in favor of walking, cycling, riding public transportation or using
the services of Uber or Lyft. The Assistance League of Denver is no exception. They, too, are on the move once they sell their chapter house, the Bosworth House, at 1400 Josephine St.
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Built in 1889, the three-story Victorian mansion plus basement has a storied history and has maintained many of its original artifacts, including lovely oak and maple woodwork and some rare birdseye maple. There’s also period-appropriate wrought iron, wallpaper, rugs and furniture. The Bosworth House was designed by Denver architects Varian and Sterner and was built initially for Carolina and Thomas Dunbar at a cost of $18,000. Today, the asking price for the mansion is $2,200,000. It was given landmark designation in 1975 by Denver Landmark Preservation, a division of the City and County of Denver Community Planning and Development Department. Mary Murray, the Assistance League’s current president, said the decision to sell their building has been a long process with input and member surveys from the league’s 273 members, who are all volunteers. “The house takes a lot of time and TLC to maintain,” said Murray, who has been a League member for the past 10 years. “Through our process of discussions with members, we came to the conclusion that we’d be better able to be a more effective organization if we could have all of our services in one location. Right now, we seem to be having ‘collaborative collisions’ with one another and decided we could have a renewal of the organization’s energy if we didn’t have to maintain the building.” Murray cited one of the League’s significant costs was having to replace the mansion’s roof due to hail damage last winter. “Another matter of concern is that two-thirds of the members live south of 6th Avenue, which means a lot of commuting for our members,” said Murray. In 1903 the home was sold to Leonora Bosworth after the Dunbars divorced. Mrs. Bosworth was the widow of Joab Bosworth who was founder of the Denver Fire Clay Co. In 1890, he was killed in a freak accident at his company. Mrs. Bosworth lived in the house until 1947 when she died at the age of 91. She participated in many civic, cultural and literary activities and she had a special interest in the American Association of University
Women (AAUW) to whom she bequeathed Bosworth House to for their Denver chapter headquarters. The home was used by the AAUW to provide housing for female college students who were awarded scholarships by the AAUW.
Smiley’s
“Having an unoccupied building is not good for the neighborhood,” Caballero said. “The developer’s plan is something like The Source [in RiNo]. It would bring back a marketplace like it used to be.” She said the developers have expressed willingness to take feedback on the project’s design from the neighbors. “Everybody wants something good to happen there,” Caballero added. “We just want a compromise.” Caballero and Torres feel a successful project at the Smiley’s location could jump start a renaissance along that stretch of Colfax.
continued from 1 “[CIG] had a few ideas, but nothing really specific,” Levinsky said. “Our board and committee are trying to identify other things that could be compromise elements.” “I’m always encouraged when we can meet and have a discussion,” Bertoch said. “What’s becoming an issue is how to preserve the building while providing sufficient parking to provide long-term viability for the project. We’re continuing to follow up and see if there are ideas we hadn’t considered and ideas where we could compromise.”
In 1966, the AAUW sold their house to the Assistance League which has owned it ever since and which provides many philanthropic services to the Denver community, including programs for just about everyone from infants to the elderly and those in between. The League’s motto is, “All for Service, and Service for All.” Right now, it’s not clear where the Assistance League will move. “We’d like to consider staying in another Capitol Hill neighborhood,” said Murray. “Our minds are wide open.” Two of the most-visible programs that the Assistance League raises money for and offers are the Thrift Shop at East Colfax Avenue and Humboldt Street and the H.E.L.P. (Hospital Equipment Lending Program), which is located at the Bosworth House. In addition, the Assistance League and its volunteers also do the following: Run programs for victims of sexual assault. Provide new winter clothing with the assistance of a school social worker for low-income students enrolled at Denver Public Schools. Offer handmade caps for kids who have cancer and who are staying at the Ronald McDonald House or Children’s Hospital. Provide teddy bears to paramedics, police and hospitals for children who have been traumatized or find themselves in crisis situations. Conduct programs for seniors at Medicaid facilities twice a year. Offer senior services at their onsite Hospitality House program throughout the year. Sponsor scholarships to qualifying students to attend the Community College of Aurora, the Community College of Denver and Pickens Technical College in Aurora. For details about these programs or if you are interested in membership, please contact the League at 303-322-5205.
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CALENDAR CLASSES, LECTURES & FORUMS Fri, 09/30-Thu, 10/06 Candidate Forums Live on Denver 8 TV Denver Decides, a consortium composed of the League of Women Voters of Denver, InterNeighborhood Cooperation and Denver 8 TV, will hold candidate and ballot issue forums for the upcoming November 2016 election on Denver 8 TV. See online schedule. Denver 8 TV lwvdenver.org Sat, 10/01 | 9:00a.m.-11:40a.m.
HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE WITH KIDS.
Italian for Travelers Students will learn many useful skills, including meeting and greeting others, requesting information, ordering in a restaurant and asking for directions. | 303-733-4335 Italian Institute, 3773 Cherry Creek Drive N., Suite 575 italianinstitute.com Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 10:30a.m. Capoeira Angola Intro Class Introductory class in this AfricanBrazilian art form with its roots in Bantu traditions, which were carried to Brazil by enslaved Africans. Free, other classes available. | 303-294-9258 Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St. mercurycafe.com Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 4:00p.m. Meditation and Kirtan Leave your troubles behind and practice meditation and Kirtan every Sunday. Childcare provided. For more info call Ed. | 720-810-9071 854 Pearl St.
peace and happiness, and clarify your intention for the day, free. | 303-813-9551 KMC Colorado Capitol Hill, 1081 Marion St. meditationincolorado.org
Sun, 10/02 | 2:00p.m.-3:00p.m. Read It or Not Book Club with Warm Cookies of the Revolution Hang out and discuss the book “Salem’s Lot," by Stephen King. We’ll also have special guests like comedians, artists, podcasters or just everyday people who have a unique perspective on what’s happening in Denver. And yes, there’s cookies. | 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org
Wed, 10/05 | 7:00p.m.-9:00p.m. Democratic Party of Denver House District 5 Monthly Meeting Get involved with your local district, find out about committees and ballot issues. | 303-830-8242 Colorado Democratic Party Headquarters, 789 Sherman St. #110 denverdemocrats.org
Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 9:30a.m. Tibetan Buddhist Meditation Learn both Tibetan and rhythmic English chants and brief silent meditations. Led by members of Yeshe Nyingpo Denver, a chapter of the Dudjom Tersar and aligned with the Dalai Lama. | 303-294-9258 Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St. mercurycafe.com
Wednesdays, 10/05-10/26 | 7:00p.m. Denver Socrates Cafe Join a group that “seek truth by their own lights.” No regular attendance or preparation required. Speak your own mind, then take turns playing Socrates by asking questions. | 303-861-1447 Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway meetup.com/Denver-Socrates-Cafe
Tuesdays, 10/04-10/25 | 6:30p.m.-10:30p.m. Argentine Tango, practice and lessons Tango Colorado hosts these low cost Tango lessons, followed by a practice session. | 303-710-2250 Denver Turnverein Event Center, 1570 Clarkson St. tangocolorado.org/lessons
Thursdays, 10/06-10/27 | 7:00p.m. Cherry Creek Toastmasters Improve your communication and leadership skills and network with others that share your goals and aspirations. Guests are welcome! | 303-947-3408 Assumption Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 4610 E. Alameda Ave. toastmasters.org
Tue, 10/04-10/25 | 12:00p.m. Meditation at Noon Connect your heart, cultivate inner
Fri, 10/07 | 7:00a.m.Denver GOP First Friday Breakfast Great speakers and conservative camaraderie. This month's speakers are Colorado Secretary of State Wayne Williams and Denver Clerk & Recorder. Please RSVP and order breakfast to support Pete’s. | 303-782-9555 Pete’s Greek Town Cafe, 2910 E. Colfax Ave. denvergop.org
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Fridays, 10/07-10/28 | 5:00p.m.-6:00p.m. Happiness Hour A short talk and guided relaxing meditation to help increase a
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peaceful good heart. It is an ideal way to unwind after work and recharge for a great evening ahead. Free. | 303-813-9551 KMC Colorado Downtown, 1336 Glenarm Place meditationincolorado.org Fri, 10/07 | 6:45a.m.-8:00a.m. Monthly Downtown Democratic Forum Breakfast Get info on local issues and ballot initiatives. Public welcome. First Friday of the month. | 303-861-8050 Southern Hospitality 1433 17th St. denverdemocrats.org Tue, 10/11 | 6:00p.m.-7:30p.m. Books Come Out Celebrate National Coming Out Day with pride. Staff will share their choice GLBTQ fiction, nonfiction and graphic novels, both classic and new. Bring your favorites to add to the conversation and leave with titles to add to your To Read list. | 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Sat, 10/15 | 9:45a.m.-11:30a.m. Colorado House District 8 Democrats Socialize at 9:45a.m. over donuts and coffee, meeting starts 10a.m.. Rep. McCann and frequently Sen. Johnston and/or Sen. Steadman will provide updates on their legislative activities. | 720-220-6876 Ford-Warren Branch Library 2825 High St. denverdemocrats.org Sat, 10/15 | 2:00p.m.-4:00p.m. Dr. Mark Aldenderfer, University of California, Merced Title: All compounded things are subject to decay: The archaeology of Tibetan Buddhism Offering insights into that past though a discussion of research through four vignettes: the pagan‚ Buddhists of Mustang, the tombs of the Buddhist kings of Tibet, the top-down Buddhists of Dulan, and the lost Buddhist past from Tholing in Tibet. | 303-648-1968 Auraria Campus 777 Lawrence St. aiadenver.org/lecture-program Wed, 10/19 | 6:00p.m.-7:00p.m. Artist Talk with Michael Keen Talk with the curator of the Dark & Obscure show. Keen is a surrealist painter whose art explores the world of his dreams, questioning the nature of truth and fiction. | 303-320-8347 Art Gym Denver 1460 Leyden St. artgymdenver.com Wed, 10/19 | 6:30p.m.-8:00p.m. The Citizens’ Climate Lobby Citizens Climate Lobby is a nonprofit, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address climate change. | 303-322-0079 First Unitarian Society of Denver 1400 Lafayette St.
next session starts oct 24!
Photo by Erin Bird, courtesy of Denver Botanic Gardens
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Wed, 10/19 | 5:30p.m.VSA Summer Speaker Series: Artful Aging Dawn Koceja of the Milwaukee Public Museum will be on hand to discuss the SPARK! program designed to help people in the early to mid stages of memory loss, by enjoying art and artifacts. Also, Granny Does Grafitti program of VSA Colorado. Free. | 303-777-0797 Gensler Denver 1225 17th St. accessgallery.org Tue, 10/25 | 6:00p.m.-7:00p.m. Create Great Credit Class Learn how to use credit wisely, including what makes up a credit score and how to establish, maintain and improve your credit. Parking and a light meal. RSVP required. | 303-573-1170 Denver Community Credit Union, 1041 Acoma St. denvercommunity.coop Tue, 10/25 | 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m.
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14 CHUN continued from 2 for a strip of eight; the tickets are redeemable at 50 cents each, making CHUN $1 per strip. CHUN has managed to reduce event expenses each year—21 percent, down to $252,484 in 2015 from $320,895 in 2007. But that can’t go on forever. “Fixed costs are really difficult to cut,” Armstrong explains. Rent, security, fencing, tents, golf carts and other expenses are necessary to stage the event without affecting safety and quality. “Over 10 years it doesn’t go down. We’ve done about all we can do,” he adds. CHUN’s operating budget has been affected by the drop in revenue, and three of its five
Calendar continued from 13
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Game Development with Unity Create a simple 3D game and look at resources to expand your game development knowledge. | 720-865-1706 ideaLAB in Community Technology Center of DPL Central library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org/idealab Tue, 10/25 | 7:00p.m.-8:30p.m. Lowry Speaker Series presents: The Tuskegee Airmen Experience Stories of the historic challenges, adversity and triumphs of this pioneer group of men and women in the Army Air Corps program to train African Americans to fly and maintain combat aircraft during WWII. | 303-757-7658 The Eisenhower Chapel, 293 Roslyn St. lowrydenver.com
FILM Sat, 10/01 | 7:30p.m.-9:30p.m. Sound + Vision: David Bowie Is Journey through the David Bowie is exhibition with guests including fashion designer Kansai Yamamoto, Pulp front-man Jarvis Cocker, and other collaborators, to explore the stories behind Bowie’s artistic career. | 720-381-0813 Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave. denverfilm.org Sun, 10/09 | 6:30p.m.-8:30p.m. Indigenous Film Series Indigenous Film & Arts Festival, Denver American Indian Commission and DMNS present October: Message from MungoErosion around Lake Mungo in New South Wales revealed the cremated remains of Mungo Woman, the earliest known cremation in the world. | 303-744-9686 Denver Museum of Nature &
paid positions were eliminated last year—community relations manager, operations manager and grounds keeper. “Running the event takes a lot of labor and time, not just money,” Armstrong says. Given all these factors, CHUN’s directors are currently negotiating with an event production company to run the fair next year. That will result in the elimination of another position from payroll—assistant director. “We hope patrons will see a change,” said Armstrong. “They [the event company] have the staffing and event budget to be able to offer new elements,” which may include different entertainment and activities. “Because of our decline in revenue, we had no funds to look at this.” CHUN will still provide the
300+ volunteers needed to stage the event. “The People’s Fair has always funded our community work,” said Armstrong. That includes volunteer-staffed committees doing research, education and advocacy on local historic preservation, trees, zoning, transportation and improving conditions for families. “Membership dues and smaller fundraising events—such as wine tastings, restaurant tours and golf tournaments—will not cover that,” he said. So, CHUN made a decision to focus its attention on the Tears-McFarlane House. Acquired in 2005 from another nonprofit, the house had a deed restriction requiring it to be used as a community center until January 2011. Armstrong said it is now
owned free and clear, with no use restrictions, so space can be rented out for weddings, corporate meetings and conferences. “It’s still a community center,” he points out, housing CHUN’s and other nonprofits’ offices, as well as some private businesses. Improving and upgrading the property will increase revenue while maintaining a community center. “We’re able to get funding [grants] for historic preservation for our home,” said Armstrong, but not for CHUN’s advocacy work. “Focusing on the Tears McFarlane House goes to the heart of our mission, which is civic engagement, engagement with community ... what better place to focus on this than a community center?”
Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. dmns.org
ing Sierra Barela’s unique aesthetic across a new body of work. | 720-502-5635 Helikon Gallery & Studios, 3675 Wynkoop St. helikongallery.com
Thu, 10/06-Sat, 10/29 Dark & Obscure Exhibit explores the darker side of art by featuring artists concerned with topics of mortality, the afterlife and our perceptions of reality. Opening reception: Fri., Oct. 6, 5-8p.m. | 303-320-8347 Art Gym Denver, 1460 Leyden St. artgymdenver.com
GALLERIES Fri, 09/30-10/08 Evolution: Emilio Lobato and Virgil Ortiz Show that brings together pieces formed, not only from the material world, ceramic, book covers, paper, rulers, but unique aesthetics that come from the past, and creative future projections.| 303-893-2360 William Havu Gallery, 1040 Cherokee St. williamhavugallery.com
Sun, 09/11 Shock Wave: Japanese Fashion Design, 1980s -90s View works of Japanese designers who started a fashion revolution in Paris in the 1980s-90s including Issey Miyake, Kenzo Takada, Kansai Yamamoto and Yohji Yamamoto. | 720-865-5000 Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverartmuseum.org/exhibitions
Fri, 09/30-Sun, 10/02 Blow Up! by Chad Person Features seven large-scale inflatables illustrating a loss of prowess of select iconic characters at the end of their cultural relevance. Reception: Sun., Oct. 2, 6-9p.m. | 303-296-4448 RedLine Contemporary Art Center, 2350 Arapahoe St. redlineart.org
Fri, 09/30-Fri, 11/04 I’ve Got a Bike!: Artists Respond to the Bicycle Works by Colorado artists, in a variety of media, including installations, murals, video, paintings, written word and sound displayed alongside the classic or unique bicycles that inspired them. | 720-865-4220 McNichols Building, 144 W. Colfax Ave. mcnicholsbuilding.com/exhibitions
Fri, 09/30-Sat, 10/01 On the Periphery Viewing these works of Benjamin Bjorklund, Lindsey Kustusch and Felicia Forte | 303-355-0950 Abend Gallery, 2260 E. Colfax Ave. abendgallery.com Fri, 09/30-Mon, 10/10 | 12:00p.m. Pattern Makers An exhibition featuring artwork by five Denver artists with a strong pattern esthetic: Susan Blake, Marty Jaquis, Jerry Johnson, Jonathan Kaplan and Annalee Schorr. | 303-297-9831 The Pattern Shop Studio, 3349 Blake St. patternshopstudio.com Fri, 09/30-Fri, 10/28 Four Whales and a Dolphin Features large and small scale paintings and sculptures, highlight-
Fri, 09/30-Fri, 11/04 Beau Carey & Patty Hallock In Carey’s series, “Rabbit Island”, paintings from a artist residency are framed by outcroppings of rocky cliffs with broad expanses of deep water. Hallock’s photos in “Pull”, questions our collective ethos and myths of the American west. | 303-573-1255 Goodwin Fine Art, 1255 Delaware St. goodwinfineart.com Fri, 09/30-Sat,10/29 Three Concurrent Solos Adam Vinson’s hyper-realist, storytelling, still life art collection of mind-bending paintings. | 303-590-9800 Mike Wright Gallery, 1412 Wazee St. mikewrightgallery.com
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Fri, 10/07-Sat, 10/22 Robin Furuta: A Legacy This collection of ceramic pieces, on loan from many private collections, showcases Furuta’s work and recognize the impact she had on the ceramics community as an artist, educator and friend to many. Reception: Fri., Oct. 7, 6-9p.m. | 303-295-0717 Plinth Gallery, 3520 Brighton Blvd. plinthgallery.com Fri, 10/14-Fri, 11/04 Gregory Block Block’s exhibition serves to show his deep knowledge and understanding of the style in which he paints. Opening reception: Fri., Oct. 14, 6-9p.m. | 303-571-1261 Gallery 1261, 1261 Delaware St. gallery1261.com
HALLOWEEN Sat, 10/08 | 1:00p.m.-2:00p.m. Active Minds presents: Monsters & Legends From the vampires of Eastern Europe, to the stories of the Loch Ness monster, Big Foot, and more, explore the origins and history of familiar (and not so familiar) tales. | 303-320-7652 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway activeminds.com Sat, 10/22-Sun, 10/30 | 9:00a.m.-5:00p.m. Boo at the Zoo The 32nd annual Boo At The Zoo, presented by Your Hometown Toyota Stores, offers 20 trick-ortreat stations, creepy crawly animal demonstrations and exciting family-friendly entertainment under the canopy of the beautiful fall foliage. | 720-337-1400 Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St. denverzoo.org Sat, 10/22 | 12:00p.m.-6:00p.m. Denver Zombie Crawl Get in costume and have some scary fun at the 11th annual Denver Zombie Crawl! Skyline Park, 16th and Arapahoe Streets denverzombiecrawl.com Fri, 10/28 | 3:00p.m.-6:00p.m. Trick or Treat Street Enjoy trick or treating and notso-scary fun throughout the Central Library, plus, a party in the Children’s Library! No unac-
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MUST SEE SHOWS WHITE WALLS Through Oct. 8 David B. Smith Gallery 1543 Wazee St.
Sarah McKenzie’s paintings explore art world spaces and take notice of the overlooked architecture and fixtures of museums, galleries and art fair tents. McKenzie layers oils and acrylics on canvasand uses a technique which causes her subject matter to waver between realism and abstraction, drawing the viewer in for a closer look. Many of the paintings feature obscured works by other artists, which inverts the usual experience: their art is now part of the scenery. 303-893-4234 or davidbsmithgallery.com.
GREGORY BLOCK Through Nov. 5 Gallery 1261 1261 Delaware St.
Gregory Block, one of the most promising realist painters in the Colorado area, takes still life painting to a new plane by breathing life into inanimate, commonplace objects. His fruits, vegetables and meats are succulent and mouth watering, and his glass and metal surfaces, dare the viewer to touch them to test their validity. With a nod to the still life masters of the past, Block finds ways to incorporate whimsical objects into his paintings, redefining the technique for the modern age and drawing the viewer in for a closer look. 303-571-1261 or gallery1261.com. Artwork: Grapes and Brie by Gregory Block
Artwork: Black Bench by Sarah McKenzie
INHERENT INTENT Through Nov. 5 Walker Fine Arts 300 W. 11th Ave.
An artist’s work is usually pushed by an internal compulsion, a need to bring out what they see or feel inside. This group show explores that purposeful intent and the drive behind the spontaneous, creative process. The artists in this group push themselves to experiment with difficult media and embrace the accidental, as well as concentrating on essential elements to create unique experiences. These works are contemporary, using minimalistic color palettes that bring a subtle cohesion to the show. Featuring paintings and sculptures by Vanessa Clarke, Jessica Drenk, Liz Quan, Udo Nöger, Mel Rea, Chris Richter and Ana Zanic. 303-355-8955 or walkerfineart.com. Artwork: Arcadia Cloud by Ana Zanic
16 Calendar continued from 14 companied adults or children. Costumes optional, but welcome! | 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Fri, 10/28-Sat, 10/29 | 3:00p.m.-6:00p.m. Halloween SPOOKYLAB Make LED-lit creepy eyes, papercut flashlight covers, paper bag monsters, mummy hands and who knows what else! Come on Friday to make something and participate in Trick or Treat Street. | 720-865-1706
ideaLAB in Community Technology Center of DPL Central library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org/idealab
denvergov.org
Sat, 10/29 | 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m. Halloween Fun Join the Denver Public Library for wacky and kooky Halloween activities and games. | 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org
Tuesdays, 10/04-10/25 | 10:30a.m. Young Children’s Storytime Half hour of stories and fun, with a different topic each week. | 303322-1965, ext. 2731 Tattered Cover, 2526 E. Colfax Ave. tatteredcover.com
Mon, 10/31 Hallowe’en Party For Kids The Police turn their Headquarters into a candy-filled thrill house for over 2,000 children 12 and under. | Denver District 6 Police Station, 1566 N. Washington St.
BOOKS
THE LIGHT OF PARIS PROVES RATHER DIM by Jason McKinney The Light of Paris by Eleanor Brown G.P. Putnam’s Sons July 2016 Please indulge me for a moment with a personal note. Reading is a big part of my life. I’m typically reading two books at a time and average about 100 books a year. That’s part of why I consider Banned Books Week (Sept. 25-Oct. 1) and Family Literacy Month (Sept. 26-Nov. 1) so important. My wife and I exposed our two children, now four and six, to reading early on. I think we
started reading to them the first week they were born. It’s so important for children to be read to and not just put in front of a screen. (Although I am frequently guilty of that as well. These reviews don’t write themselves!) For children to be exposed to reading at a young age and to be able to learn early how it can change one’s life is essential to what we as a people need for our future. This is one of the things at the very heart of the argument against banning books—no one should be able to tell someone what they can and can’t read, what they can and can’t dream, no matter what it is. It doesn’t matter what you
KIDSTUFF
Wednesdays, 10/05-10/26 | 11:30a.m.-12:30p.m. Baby Play and Explore Unstructured play and social time for children (0-2 years) and their caregivers. Enjoy books, music and a variety of developmentally appropriate toys. | 720-865-1111
read, as long as you do it. I mentioned that I read a lot in a given year, but I also read a wide range of books. Eleanor Brown’s new novel, The Light of Paris, is a little far afield of my usual taste, but I gave it a shot for this month’s column. As a way of beginning: In comedian Mike Birbiglia’s new dramedy Don’t Think Twice, the plot revolves around an improv troupe which starts each show by asking the audience if anyone has had a particularly rough day and then riffing off of the answer in order to get the show going. In one scene, Gillian Jacobs of Community fame skewers an audience member’s plight of having to return from France early. “Waaaaahhhhhh! I had to come back from France early! Waaaaaaaahhhh!” The memory of this scene kept surfacing as I read Brown’s novel, a surprisingly lauded tale about two incredibly privileged women crying like babies because their lives are so difficult. The dual narrative tells the story of Madeleine and her grandmother, Margie. Madeleine is unhappily married to Philip in
Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Wed, 10/05 Every Kid in a Park An initiative the U.S Government announced that all fourth grade students and their families have free admission to National Parks, national forests, national wildlife refuges and waters for a full year. everykidinapark.gov
OUTREACH Sat, 10/01-Sun, 10/02 | 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m. Youth Artists on the Spectrum: A Celebration of Neurodiversity
1999 and she finds Margie’s diaries when she visits her mother, who is in the process of selling her house. Margie’s diaries reveal an unhappy girl (are you sensing a theme here?) who is sent to Paris in 1924 to chaperone a younger cousin, who is a little bit of a hellion. Margie is quickly ditched by said cousin and decides to stay in Paris after finding a job at the American Library and meeting a young Frenchman, whom she immediately falls for. Admittedly, there’s nothing exactly wrong with this plot and the employment of two perspectives do help make things a little more interesting. Brown is a capable writer and excels at her prose. She knows how to write— that’s an absolute certainty. It’s just that the parallel narrative has been done so many times and in much better ways. Whether it’s Possession, Fates and Furies or another example of two women separated by decades, Julie and Julia, they all read better than this one. If The Light of Paris was the first novel you had ever read in your life, I’m sure you would en-
Youth Artists on the Spectrum: A Celebration of Neurodiversity. | 720-913-0068 Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverartmuseum.org/calendar Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 6:45p.m. Nar-Anon Support group for families and friends of addicts to help themselves cope. First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St. nar-anon.org Mondays, 10/03-10/31 | 7:00p.m. Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous
continued on 20
joy it, but otherwise, it comes off as hackneyed and cliche. Characters who struggle with their lives are an almost constant these days when it comes to adult fiction so I need to be wowed when it comes to triumphing over adversity. As mentioned previously, one of the biggest crimes that this novel is guilty is that of privilege. It’s difficult to care about two well-off women who are unhappy with their love lives when people are attempting to survive without limbs. The words “First World Problems” kept going off in my head like the Blue Light Special at Kmart. If you’re going to write about such people, fine; but at least make them compelling. I either need to care about or despise them, but not feel completely neutral. If you’re looking for a gift for your grandmother’s birthday or your elderly aunt’s early Chanukah present, by all means pick this up. I’m sure they will enjoy it. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging and original, I would give The Light of Paris a wide berth.
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17
CURMUDGEON
UNSINKABLE, AND A HAPPY FACE FOR COLFAX by D. Todd Clough Tom Shockcor, the president of and broker for Shockcor, Inc. (investment real estate management and brokerage), was one of the founders of the UNSINKABLES, INC. The group was formed by area neighbors March 1, 1991, to fight back against drug activity and to claim and restore a portion of Capitol Hill. The UNSINKABLES chose their name because of their proximity to the Molly Brown house and because it reflects the determination and spirit the group has for their cause. Their efforts focus on the area bordering 11th and Colfax avenues, along Logan, Pennsylvania, Pearl, Washington and Clarkson streets. Making their neighborhood safe and a place they can be proud of is their goal. They have established a partnership with the Denver Police Department. In addition, an off-duty officer is hired to patrol the neighborhood and assist the group with their weekly walks. During their walks, they patrol the neighborhood as a group and pick up trash, meet new neighbors and watch for crime activity to report to the police. They believe, and know from experience, that their presence has increased the level of safety and beautification in their neighborhood. Another active resident, Todd Hughes, arrived in Denver in December of 1989, right before Christmas. It was a cold and gray day and he felt both physically and mentally that he was a long way from Los Angeles. He had
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gone to college in LA to study hotel management. His degree brought him to a job in the Mile High City. His first stop was for gas on the corner of Colfax and Colorado Boulevard. He remembers doing a 360 degree lookaround. The clouds were thick that day so there was no glorious view of our majestic Rockies. To put it politely, he was not wowed by his first impression. In fact he teared up and uttered, “This town looks horrible.” Todd heard from a number of people who advised that if he was going to live on Capitol Hill to not rent north of 11th because Colfax (known by the locals as “The Fax”) was reputed to be the home base of the devil. So, he found a place in the 1000 block of Washington. He paid $367 per month, a price many of his friends thought was outrageous for Cap Hill since most similar one-bedroom, one-bath apartments there were going for $250 to $300. As time went on, Todd moved around and ventured closer to Colfax. He got word in the summer of 1995 that a gorgeous and classic building in the 1400 block of Pennsylvania (just steps away from Colfax) was going condo— the first to do so. He decided to take the leap into adulthood and purchase his first home, a two-bedroom, two-bath, two-story unit with a darling balcony for $67,500. That, ladies and gentleman, is called a wise investment. Todd believed in the neighborhood back in 1995 and his gut
feelings have paid off, but it hasn’t always been easy. Like the UNSINKABLES, Todd worries and takes action regarding the numerous drug dealers and homeless folks that are imbedded in his section of Colfax. Beyond picking up trash (a lot of Doritos packages, used condoms, needles and malt-liquor bottles) on a daily basis, he notifies the police of any suspicious activity. He has also become the lighthouse of the Colfax Corridor. Many years ago an apartment building across the street from his home was abandoned for quite a few months. You can only imagine the debauchery that happened there, and Todd and his boyfriend of 16 years witnessed much of the shenanigans that went on from their darling balcony. Todd was often frustrated by the delayed response of the police department, so he took action and purchased the largest, most powerful spotlight that he could find. Whenever he saw inappropriate and unlawful activity he would zap the offender with a light bright enough for a Broadway stage, and it worked. Most of the offenders stopped what they were doing and moved along. He still has the spotlight and it still comes on every now and then. Tom and Todd are not alone in their efforts. Van Schoales is the chief executive officer of A+ Colorado, a community-based “action tank” for education reform. He has lived in the Colfax Corridor for over 15 years on both Gilpin and Humboldt streets. His cur-
Open House
rent house is three in from “The Fax.” He believes that the impact of the avenue Playboy magazine once called “the longest wickedest street in America” diminishes every house farther away you get from Colfax. Like Tom and Todd, Van has seen many changes over the years and many are for the good. A billboard he can see from his bedroom window has changed as well. In his early days, the sign would highlight different brands of malt liquor. Now he sees images of Starbucks and the Container Store. Families with kids in stroll-
ers are no longer an oddity. If he was the Czar of Colfax, part of him would like to see a couple more really fine restaurants close by and Marczyk’s Fine Foods across the street. Instead, he has a Family Dollar store. And yet he sees the value of his youngest daughters being on a first-name basis with the clerks there. His oldest daughter now lives in Harlem and she has reflected on the many lessons and benefits that she acquired growing up on The Fax. She had a front row seat to the window of the world. Van’s last words to me were that the reality and the reputation of Colfax simply do not match-up. These three gentlemen are representatives of the many who love “The Fax”—warts and all. They have stepped up to make a difference in the hood. They are proud of where they live and fight to make it a better place. They are the kind of neighbors that anyone would wish for.
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Come for a tour of our picturesque campus, including our new dining hall and performing arts spaces. When
Friday, November 4 2016 9 to 11am What
• 9:00 Welcome • 9:15 Campus Tours • 10:00 Comments & Questions • 10:15 Panel Discussion
Where
St. Anne’s Dining Hall 2701 S. York Street Denver, CO 80210
RSVP
Marcia 303.756.9481 x210 or st-annes.org/open-house-rsvp If you are unable to attend the Open House but would like to schedule a tour of St. Anne’s Episcopal School, please contact the Admissions Office at 303.756.9481 x210 or visit our website: st-annes.org.
18 Business continued from 7 magazines,” Omar Mateen used a semi-automatic rifle and high-capacity magazines to kill 49 and injure 53 in June in an Orlando nightclub, which was the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. A perception among Americans
is Washington is dysfunctional and highly partisan, no matter the issue. DeGette disputes that narrative. “There is a lot of work being done on a bipartisan basis, but what people talk about is the paralysis,” she says. DeGette cites her 21st Century Cures bill as a recent example. She is a co-author of the legislation along with Republican Fred
Upton. The pair have worked almost two years on the bill. 21st Century Cures would modernize the NIH and FDA to allow biomedical research to be done in a way that is much more aligned with how it actually happens. It would also help make clinical trials more efficient and targeted, and expedite the FDA’s approval process for drugs and devices. The measure, which would be
paid for via offsets from other government programs, also includes an “innovation fund,” currently envisioned to be $8.75 billion, which the NIH director could allocate for research for diseases including cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s. 21st Century Cures was overwhelmingly passed in the House in the spring by a vote of 344 to 77. DeGette hopes it will be approved by the Senate sometime in the fall. “This bill could impact millions of Americans and their families and is a very exciting piece of legislation,” she says.
Democrat Michael Bennet and Republican Cory Gardner both support the legislation. “The 21st Century Cures Act is a commonsense approach to accelerating patient access to lifesaving treatment and cures,” said Sen. Gardner. “I’m proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance this important legislation. The United States has always been a global leader in biomedical innovation, and Colorado is a driver of it. Colorado’s own Rep. Diana DeGette has been a leading voice in this effort, and I commend her for her leadership.”
Stockham
high-capacity magazines should be available to the general public, Stockham says he does not have a problem with how many bullets one has at their disposal. Regulating magazines is, he says, “just another clever way for them to try to control how we protect ourselves as citizens.” The interview closed with a discussion of Stockham’s lack of public service experience and his qualifications to serve. As in prior interviews, Stockham cited his years of business experience, specifically his marriage counseling work with his wife, as something that inspires him and shows he is capable of bringing disparate parties to compromise and union. What bothers him most, it seems, is DeGette’s seeming refusal to debate him. No one from her camp has responded to his demands to debate, and Stockham has gone so far as to accuse her of hiding behind white privilege. In the end, Stockham feels his perspective will resonate with Colorado First District voters, especially those who, he feels, have been ignored and marginalized for too long. Outside of winning November, Casper’s hope is to relocate the Denver and Colorado GOP offices to Five Points. He plans to locate there, too. Where exactly? In the Selman’s Records space.
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“However, I think he’s doing well now, and I like the message he’s delivering to the black and brown community, which I’ve never seen a Republican deliver up to this date.” As for the issue of guns, Stockham takes the line that “in our history, guns have been an important factor in keeping safe in our community. I’m not excited by anyone taking my gun or anybody else’s gun away just because they think it’s going to make someone else safer.” Stockham draws a line with felons, though. And, disarmament is off the table for him—if you are a law-abiding citizen, he feels laws as they stand are sufficient. As for the language surrounding assault weapons and whether or not a weapon is semi automatic, Stockham says “just about every weapon out there is a semi automatic because you have to keep pulling the trigger to fire another round. “All weapons are meant to destroy what they’re hitting ... everything is an assault weapon, whether it’s a gun or a knife or a bomb. It’s meant to hurt or destroy whatever it’s pointed at.” When asked his stance on gun magazines and whether or not
Colfax continued from 3 City, the organization which cleans Colfax for Colfax Ave BID and hangs their banners and holiday decorations, feels the patrols have had a dispersing effect. “It’s my understanding that when the business improvement district downtown started to work on the 16th Street Mall and tried to get rid of the problems they were having down there with the homeless and they started to do sweeps there, people from there had to go somewhere.” Shortly after, Curtain feels, these individuals began congregating in City Park and Civic Center Park, and the sweeps there pushed these individuals up the hill. Curtain feels some of this population then came to Colfax, specifically to the section adjoining the Cathedral Basilica and the McDonald’s at Colfax Avenue and Pennsylvania Street. “I am out at 4, 5a.m.,” Curtain says. “I live right at High Street on Colfax, and I’m on the street
four or five times a day. Me and my employees, we’re the eyes and ears of [Colfax Ave BID.]” He agrees the new patrols have resulted in significant changes near the capital, but he feels an additional outcome has been the transient population of interest here have spread throughout the area. “Some folks have disappeared,” Curtain says. “Some are still here, down by Race and Vine, sleeping in doorways. That’s never happened before. There are others down by the Johnson Moving and Storage building. We’ve not seen transients down there for years.” The 100 additional hours of foot and bike patrols will start in the coming weeks. An exact date for the start has not yet been set, and Colfax Ave does not have word on how long the patrols will last. At present the City is managing the scheduling of the officers’ patrols. LIFE will continue to cover this story as it develops.
19
GARDENING by Joan Hinkemeyer October is Colorado’s blue and gold month. No, I’m not becoming a sports writer in my dotage. It’s just that the canopies of golden trees silhouetted against cloudless cobalt blue skies excite us to revelry. Such days stimulate the child in us to dreams of scuffing through leaves with joyous abandon before we silently absorb October’s special moments to savor and remember on later inclement days,. Yes, I know all of you eastern transplants are bemoaning the absence of autumn reds, but our strong light would actually diminish the full effect of red, and we do have a few bright sumac, maples and euonymus to cheer you. October’s glorious extravaganza does lull us into a false sense of seasonal security. We become so engrossed in embracing the perfect days that we forget time is passing. A cold drizzly gray day will bring us up short and remind us outdoor work still awaits. Don’t curse, at least not too loudly, all of the leaves falling from our mature trees. Many sub-
OCTOBER 2016
urbanites would love some leaves. Put layers in your vegetable beds and cover with a little soil to prevent their blowing away and to encourage decomposition. Bag and save some for spring use and/or compost the rest. Then, remove all spent annual and vegetable foliage, mulch root vegetables for later use, trim low-hanging branches near power lines and plant lots of spring bulbs. Thoughts of their cheerful blooms just a few months from now will lift your spirits. Finally, continue weed control. This is an everlasting war, but true soldiers never give up, and my non-scientific mind swears weeds grow all winter just to plague us. Q: I had a petunia problem this year. Even though I faithfully dead-headed them, they quit blooming in early September. The foliage continued to look healthy, but no buds appeared. There were no obvious insect signs either. A: This is a common seasonal question. Petunias respond to light for their bloom cycles. As daylight diminishes, there is less light to stimulate blossom production. Pull them up and toss the
foliage in your compost pile when they cease blooming. Q: Why do my blooming houseplants cease blooming when I bring them indoors and my other plants drop leaves? A: It’s all about the light. (See above.) Even a well-lit house has far less light than the outdoors. Work with your plants by decreasing watering and hiding the fertilizer until February. Fertilizing them now when the light is low will kill them. Every organism must rest; let your plants rest also. Q: We have a large bed of mums that we want to move because next year we’ll install a swing set. Is it too late to transplant the mums now? A: Never transplant mums
in fall. A simple transplanting rule for here is to transplant spring-blooming perennials in the early fall and fall-blooming perennials in the spring. Q: This is our first year in an old house on Capitol Hill and we’re just learning our landscape. Grape hyacinth foliage and what we think are snowdrops are up now. Will they freeze this winter? What should we do to save them? A: Ignore them. These hardy bulbs know what they’re doing and have probably survived in your location for years. Enjoy their blossoms in the spring and celebrate the hardiness of plants. Q: My daughter wants to plant spring bulbs, but houses and trees give us poor light. What do we do? A: Plant such miniature bulbs
as crocus, snowdrops, chionodoxa, grape hyacinths and early tulips and daffodils. To prevent squirrels from eating these bulbs that are planted just a few inches deep, coat the bulbs with corn starch or cover the soil surface with fine mesh screening. Most of these will bloom before trees leaf out so they will receive enough sunlight. For at least one hour of this colorful month indulge in fall fever and share the musings of Sarah Orne Jewett, a 19th century Maine writer who loved October: “It was one of the October days when to breathe the air is like drinking wine, and every touch of the wind against one’s face is a caress; it is a day that loves you.” To an October that will love you.
Urban Dweller
Preserving the Past, Improving the Present, and Planning for the Future of Greater Capitol Hill
Denver Police Department District 6 Halloween Event Volunteers are still needed for the annual Safe Halloween Event produced by the Denver Police Department – District 6. The event will be held on Monday, October 31 from 4-7pm at the Denver Police District 6 Station located at 1566 Washington St. This free event has become a tradition for many neighborhood families. The event is geared towards children under 12 years of age, accompanied by a responsible adult. The purpose of the event is for children to have a safe and fun environment to enjoy Halloween. Volunteers are needed - please contact Officer Snow White at 720-913-2906.
Good Neighbor Awards Each year at CHUN’s Annual General Membership Business Meeting (early– to mid-January) we present the “CHUN Good Neighbor Awards.” It is time again to make your nominations! This is your opportunity to recognize significant contributions by your Greater Capitol Hill neighbors, whether they are businesses, community leaders, or the person next door. Please visit the CHUN website (www.chundenver.org) for more information on the award categories and to access the form. Please submit your nominations to the CHUN office by December 2, 2016.
CHUN Wine Tasting Thank you! Thank you to everyone who supported and attended the 9th Annual CHUN Wine Tasting and Silent Auction! Thanks to your efforts, CHUN raised nearly $10,000 to support our work to improve the Greater Capitol Hill Neighborhoods! Thank you to our Sponsors, Supporters, Participating Restaurants and Wine Donors: The Irish Snug, Joy Wine & Spirits, Lala’s Wine Bar and Pizzeria, Moscow Mule 2.0, Patxi’s Pizza Uptown, Southern Wine & Spirits, Snow Business, Tivoli Brewing Company, Treasury Wine Estates, Trinchero Family Estates, Whole Foods Market, Wright Group Event Services. Thank you to our silent auction donors: Angelo’s Taverna, Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities, Aveda Insititute, Bear Creek Distillery, Berenices, Boondocks Fun Center, Butterfly Pavilion, Caroline Schomp, Chef Zorba’s, Chow Urban Grill, Comedy Works, Denver Art Museum, Denver Botanic Gardens, Denver Zoo, Doggie Dude Ranch and the O’Cat Corral, Doug and Cedra Goldman, Downtown Aquarium, Geneva Hooten, Irish Snug, Jim and OliveAnn Slotta, Joy Wine & Spirits, Laura Rose Boyle, Lik’s, Lone Tree Arts Center, M-Uptown, Mary Starkey, Massage Qwest, Moondance Botanicals, Nancy Charles-Parker, Nusbaum Family, Okinawa Restaurant, Pure Barre, Rachel and Dave Griffin, Racine’s, Rob Weil, Roger Armstrong, Rosy Rings, Sanitas Skincare, Sarah Wells, Skyline Spirits/Don Hamai, Two Parts, Wellness Spa on 5th, YMCA, as well as several anonymous donors. Thank you also to everyone who attended the event and shopped the silent auction! It was a great evening enjoyed by all, and we are grateful for your support and participation!
20 Calendar continued from 16 Food addiction recovery support group. | 303-775-8062 Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway foodaddicts.org Mondays, 10/03-10/31 | 8:00a.m.-7:00p.m. Grant Street Reach Providing meals at no cost to its clients sustained by committed and compassionate volunteers. | 303-839-1432 St. Paul Lutheran and Roman Catholic Community of Faith, 1600 Grant St. grantstreetreach.org
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Tue, 10/04-Wed, 10/05 | Times Vary Denveright Community Visioning Workshop Share your vision for Denver, hear from others in your area and learn about four city plans that will help a design a 20-year vision for the city. McNichols Building, 144 W. Colfax Ave. denvergov.org/denveright Tuesdays, 10/04-10/25 | 6:30p.m.-8:00p.m. Moderation Management Support group for problem (vs. chronic) drinkers. First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St. moderation.org Wed, 10/05 | 10:00a.m.-11:30a.m. Dementia Caregiver Support Group Support group for caregivers for those with dementia. Free, no registration. | 303-951-5222 The Center, 1301 E. Colfax Ave. coloradoassistedliving.com Wednesdays, 10/05-10/26 | 6:30p.m. Marijuana Anonymous Support group for marijuana addiction recovery. Unity Church on the Hill, 1555 Race St. marijuana-anonymous.org Thu, 10/06 | 7:00p.m. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Family and friends are always welcome, as well as those who have a mood disorder such as depression or bipolar disorder. Over 18. | 303-329-3364 Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 915 E. 9th Ave. beyondbipolar.com Thursdays, 10/06-10/27 | 12:00p.m. Home for the Heart AL-ANON Support group for those recovering from effects of living with problem drinking by others. Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway al-anon-co.org Fri, 10/07 | 7:00p.m.-11:00p.m. Reading Partners “Road to Reading” Fall Fundraiser A new fundraising event to benefit Reading Partners’ DPS tutoring
programs. Price includes beer, wine, heavy appetizers, auction, and hearing from a Reading Partners student. | 720-409-9909 Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. readingpartners.org/Colorado Tue, 10/11 | 1:00p.m. Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group Support group for those with pulmonary fibrosis and others. | 303-398-1912 National Jewish Health, 1400 Jackson St. nationaljewish.org
Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 10:00a.m. Interfaith Devotions 303-744-6456 Baha’i Center of Metro Denver 225 E. Bayaud Ave. denverbahais.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | Times Vary Lutheran Service 303-831-7023 Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 915 E. 9th Ave. oslchurchdenver.org
Fri, 10/14 | 5:30p.m.-9:00p.m. Seventh Wonder Food and festivities to support child rights and education for children in Cambodia. Casual, kids welcome. A cornucopia of Southeast Asian Cuisine/Wine, Beer, and Signature Cocktail/Live music. Posner Center for International Development, 1031 33rd St. seventhwonder.splashthat.com
RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY Saturdays, 10/01-10/29 | 10:00a.m. Saturday Shabbat Church in the City-Beth Abraham, 1580 Gaylord St. churchinthecity.org
Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 10:00a.m. Orthodox Mass 303-698-2433 Saint Augustine Orthodox Church, 55 W. 3rd Ave. staugustinedenver.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | Times Vary Presbyterian Services 303-333-9366 Capitol Heights Presbyterian Church 1100 Fillmore St. capitolheightspresbyterian.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 10:00a.m. Worship Service 303-860-1819 Metropolitan Community Church of the Rockies, 980 Clarkson St. lifelegacyphotography.com/mccr Saturdays, 10/08 and 10/22 | 9:00a.m. Shabbat Services | 303-388-4239 Temple Micah, 5209 Montview Blvd. micahdenver.org
Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 9:00a.m. Acts 29 Christian Service L2 Church, 1477 Columbine St. L2today.com Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 7:45a.m. Anglican Services Saint John’s Cathedral 1350 Washington St. sjcathedral.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | Times Vary Catholic Mass Also, Spanish Mass, 12:30p.m. (2nd and 4th Sundays) and African Mass, 1p.m. (3rd Sunday). | 303-322-8042 St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, 2301 York St. loyoladenver.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 5:00p.m. Catholic Mass for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender 720-515-4528 Dignity Denver, 1100 Fillmore St. dignitydenver.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 10:00a.m. Christian Science Service 303-839-1505 First Church of Christ, Scientist 1415 Logan St. christiansciencecolorado.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 8:30a.m. Contemporary Services 303-322-5733 Church in the City-Beth Abraham, 1580 Gaylord St. churchinthecity.org Sundays, 10/02-10/30 | 8:30a.m. Interdenominational Service | 303-800-8269 Denver United Church, 660 S.
Broadway denverunited.com
Tue, 10/11 | 12:00p.m. Music at Noon Free 45-60 minute performances second Tuesday of each month. Bring and eat lunch prior. | 303-831-7115 Saint John’s Cathedral, 1350 Washington St. sjcathedral.org Mon, 10/17-Sun, 10/23 | 8:00a.m.-6:00p.m. Holy Relics of Saint Anthony of Padua Tour 914-263-8841 St James Catholic Church, 1311 Oneida St. saintanthonyofpadua.net
THEATER & DANCE Saturdays and Sundays, 10/0110/02 | 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m. #dancelab #dancelab is a creative dance installation created by local artistic dance partners Wonderbound and creative firm Legwork Studio.| 720-865-5000 Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverartmuseum.org/exhibitions/ dancelab
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21
SCHOOLS by Linda Katchen October is here. Stores are full of costumes, Halloween decorations and bags of candy. Trees are losing or have lost their leaves. Days have less sunlight and longer nights. Hopefully most students are working hard during those long nights. In order to ensure these students have the tools they need to succeed, make sure you register to vote. Not only is this the year of a presidential election; Denver voters are being asked to vote for a bond and mill levy to support the schools. For more information, readers can go to bond.dpsk12. org. If you’re a parent who’s looking for a new school for your student, DPS will be hosting a Great Schools Expo on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, at Mile High Stadium. This is a good way for parents and students to learn more about Denver schools before the school choice process begins. Visit schoolchoice.dpsk12.org/greatschoolsexpo for more info. Behind the scenes, CareerWise Colorado is building a statewide system of youth apprenticeships to create pathways for students to access high-demand, high-paying careers at leading Colorado companies. Student apprentices also work toward high school graduation and earn postsecondary credit, industry credentials or both in their chosen career path. CareerWise Colorado will launch 250 apprenticeships in 2017 in school districts in metro Denver and around the state. About 10 percent of students in their last two years of high school are expected to participate by 2027. For more information, go to careerwisecolorado.org. On Sept. 9, 2016, Emily Griffith Technical College, 1860 Lincoln St., celebrated the 100 year anniversary of the founding of Emily Griffith Opportunity School, the first school of its kind in the nation. A time capsule placed under a marble plaque in 1956 at the school was opened for the 100th anniversary. Several relics from this capsule will be on display at the main branch of the Denver Public Library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway, as part of the exhibit, For All Who Wish to Learn, 100 Years of Emily Griffith’s Legacy. Congratulations to several members of the East Theatre Company at East High School, 1600 City Park Esplanade. The students below applied for the 2016 Innovate for Good Grant with the Rose Community Foundation in conjunction with CoBiz Financial and 9News. At the award ceremony, these East students were recognized and celebrated for their innovative ideas. They were awarded a $5000 grant to reach out to schools around the district and perform workshops
based on a technique by Augusto Boal on Social Change. Be sure to congratulate Henry Korneffel, Liam Comaskey, Toby Lichtenwalter, Ruby Sumners, Jessica Nekritz, Teá Ned, Maddie Bronson and Audrey McGlothlen. Way to go, Angels! Internationally distributed Capri Records will donate $5 of every $15 of the pre-release of Keith Oxman’s (East’s own instrumental music teacher) East of the Village CD purchased at East High School starting Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2016, through Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016. The official release date is January 2017. All proceeds will benefit the East High School Instrumental Music Program. To purchase or for information, contact: Keith_Oxman@dpsk12.org. On Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016, the Fall Speech Presentation Night and Dessert will take place at East Commons at 6:30p.m. The cost is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Presentations range from humor to extemporaneous speaking. Come support the Speech and Debate Team students. Funds raised will support the Denver East Forensics Team (DEFT). For more information call 720-410-3443. On Friday, Oct. 14, 2016, 7:009:00p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 15, 2016, 6:00-8:00p.m., the East Choral Cabaret will be held in the East Panek Gym. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. All East choirs are performing. Contact eastchoir.com for more information. On Thursday, Oct. 20, 2016, the East Dance Company presents A Dance Noir: A Haunting Tale of Narrative Dances Exploring Shadows, Darkness, Life, in the East Dance Studio at 7:00p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Call for more information: 720-423-8468. Lastly, plan to attend the East Theatre Company’s production of Second Samuel starting Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016. Dora Moore K-8, 846 Corona St., will be holding its book fair, Monday, Oct. 24 through Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016, 8:30a.m.2:45p.m. Additionally, the Annual House Tour will be Sunday, Oct. 23 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m. Beautiful homes from the neighborhood will be open for visitors to see. This fun event helps raise money for the school. Everyone is welcome to attend. For ticket information, contact Dora Moore at 720-424-5300. The Morey Middle School, 840 E. 14th Ave., Parent Satisfaction Survey showed improved parent perception about Morey in all categories; many were double digit increases from the previous year. As a result of increased satisfaction, Morey is proud to report enrollment is over projection this year, the first time that has happened in five years.
Morey Middle school’s students, staff and parents recently participated in an exciting student leadership lock-in at Morey. They listened to an inspirational speaker, took part in a variety of leadership-based activities and generally enjoyed each other’s company. Upcoming events at Morey include the October Service Learning Day. On Service Learning Days, Morey students go out into the city to help the community in a variety of ways. They might join up with an organization such as Project Angel Heart, GrowHaus or an elementary school to help improve people’s lives. During this hands-on learning experience, students are with their teachers in classroom groups. If there are any organizations interested in having Morey students conduct Service Learning with them, please call Morey’s main office at 720-424-0700. Morey’s annual “State of Morey” school performance conversation is scheduled for 6:00p.m.
on Tuesday, Oct. 25, in the school library. Expect a discussion of a number of key improvements in school data as well as a presentation concerning the progress on the innovation plan. Morey offers an extensive selection of adult classes which began September 26 and run through early December. Classes range from Spanish and water aerobics to zumba and knitting to name a few. Classes are offered in the evenings at low prices. Registration may be completed by email, which is the preferred method: moreyneighborhoodcenter@ dpsk12.org, by phone at 720-4240791, by fax at 720-424-0726 or in person by appointment. Be prepared to provide your name, gender, date of birth, address, phone numbers, email address and name of the class you would like to take. Payment may be made after registration by phone or in person with VISA, MasterCard, check, money order or cash (no
debit cards). Checks should be made out to DPS Community Education. Cancellations of registrations may be subject to a $20 cancellation fee. Scholarships are available. Classes canceled due to weather or other circumstances beyond our control will not be made up. There are no makeups for missed classes. Last month at Teller Elementary, 1150 Garfield St., the Garden Team of Lan Spengler, Meghan Hughes and Jennifer Baptiste reported students harvested basil, tomatoes, green beans and zucchini, all of which was donated to the cafeteria. Catrina Jones, Teller’s cafeteria manager, transformed the bounty into 175 zucchini muffins, 50 servings of zucchini chips, 50 servings of bruschetta and 30 servings of green bean and potato salad. For some Teller students, it was their first exposure to these healthy and delicious foods—all fresh and recently harvested. Enjoy this time. October is a boo-tiful month.
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ARCHITECTURE photo and column by David Wise I spoke recently with a fellow in his mid-20s who had tried to live in Denver. He is currently serving coffee in Grand County which has its own severe employee housing issues due to the Airbnb phenomenon which is inflating rental costs around the world, including in major European cities, as well in the U.S. He had discovered a seam of afford-ability between South Denver and Englewood from which he commuted to the netherworld that is Southglenn Mall, a place I can’t visualize. Like thousands of others, he may now ricochet from Colorado to the Northwest. Bellingham, Washington, is, for the near future, reasonably priced, and as a bonus, it is convenient to Canada where one could flee, post-election. On a random mission to find a long-sought-after classic piece of furniture, I met another immac-
ulately kept young man in a loft on Wazee Street. The place was furnished out of the DWR (Design Within Reach) catalog, complete with an exotic cat that made not a sound. The man loved Denver for its low acquisition costs. He had followed his brother here from Manhattan (not the one in Kansas). Until recently, a not-as-young a person worked in our studio. She commuted from west of the Divide, 90 minutes away and slept, with some discord, in a relative’s house in Arvada. It was unsustainable and I fretted as my mother would, every day, that she made the treacherous, costly commute. She had tried to find an apartment in Denver that she could afford and could not make it work. Driven by fear and some guilt, I found a job for her a bit closer to home. I am now short-handed. Of these encounters, the former Englewooder is the more useful example of how growth might be
Children play at Cat Fountain in Skyline Park this past September. The fountain is a popular spot for practitioners of Parkour, climbers and the generally nimble. Photo by Jeff Hersch
The Avon building on 13th Avenue continues the landscaping of the tree-lined street and neatly fits many residences into a single family neighborhood. All residents should be given help in understanding how they can work to protect their community’s character. a good thing. Denver, against all odds, pre-Pea, is now hotly desirable, and Englewood, Lakewood and even Aurora should benefit from the demographic pressure. They need people, I believe, and the energy that brings. They have infrastructure that can handle more development and regardless of my snobbery, they each have their own cultural, social and geographical virtues. There is still a case for protecting close-knit neighborhoods with special social and ethnic riches. My scope of knowledge is limited, but at least the city and the development community should be prevented from dealing in an either negligent or subversive manner in these fragile neighborhoods. All districts should be given full and transparent instruction regarding how zoning works, how historic districts work (there is pervasive ignorance about this) and how the average citizen might defend their right to compatible, high-quality, carefully considered new development. They have a
right to the correct character and manageable density in and near their neighborhoods. The existing residents should be respected as valued constituents, regardless of their income or education levels. Newcomers to established neighborhoods should be held to a high standard. If policies don’t guide the process with those attitudes in force, the policies should be modernized. This is a boom time and policies should fit these circumstances, just as they do when a natural disaster threatens to destabilize a community. Having said these things, it is also true that simplistically characterized urban qualities, including building density and the availability of free parking, distort nearly all discussions of new development. Neither high density nor limited parking are inherently bad for the quality of life in a city or a neighborhood. Neither can be ignored as factors. Both density and free, available parking need to fit within a more holistic vision for any given district, even for any given block. The many
new residential projects behind Union Station, all high rent despite efforts at afford-ability, have large parking garages. I learned recently that many of those garages are significantly empty all of the time. Many residents now do not own cars. With Uber, car2go and, more profoundly, nearby jobs and amenities, car ownership is unnecessary. Major improvements in regional public transportation have played a role in liberating many from owning a car and now we have the prospect of a revived Ski Train! That kind of transformation is underway on parts of Capitol Hill as well. Going forward, to defend our neighborhoods and to allow healthy change we all need to be conversant in the pros and cons of higher density and easy access to free automobile parking. Becoming citizen soldiers of urban design and training ourselves to participate in the public discourse intelligently and effectively may be our single best defense. This could be our identity and legacy as a district.
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MU S IC
ROLL OVER, BEETHOVEN—CSO GOES ROCK, COMEDY AND POKEMON by Peter Jones While some music professors say you can’t have it both ways, fiddler Bridget Law has not given up on her inner violinist—especially on those special occasions when her band Elephant Revival shares the bill with the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. “It gives the music an opportunity to expand, take a breath into a whole other space,” she said. “It’s cool, the extensions of the music, where it goes with all the other instruments and the symphonic style. They all kind of tumble into each other and take it into a different realm, if you will, like a dream.” This sort of dream in classical-folk hybrid comes true again on Sunday, Nov. 26, in Boettcher Concert Hall at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts when the expansive Nederland-based quintet is backed for a third time by an increasingly open-minded and flexible CSO. “Their music is very subtle and beautiful. It’s going to be a beautiful collaboration and a very unique way to experience Elephant Revival,” said Tony Pierce, the symphony’s chief artistic officer. While classically trained musicians playing with rock and pop bands is nothing new, CSO has taken the prospect to often surprising levels, seemingly in search of new envelopes to push, while never letting go of Bach or Mozart. Although classical audiences have gotten used to symphonies going into the 20th century via Cop(e)land, it has heretofore been more the American symphonies of Aaron Copland than the British compositions of Stewart Copeland. The CSO’s diverse range of collaborations has stretched all the way from performances with
eclectic pop stars like the former Police drummer to comedy shows and tributes to popular culture that are as far removed from Brahms and Beethoven as Abbott and Costello. “You always have to do things to make yourselves relevant,” Pierce said of the outreach to millennials and others not necessarily enamored with classical music, per se. “But we’re not just playing with anyone who wants us to. It’s about showing people how exciting and impactful and exciting the orchestra can be.” As examples, the current season will see the symphony performing the live musical soundtrack to a screening of Raiders of the Lost Ark (Friday, Oct. 28), accompanying pop star Ben Folds on his Concerto for Piano and Orchestra (Friday & Saturday, Nov. 11-12), and backing the aforementioned Copeland on his Tyrant’s Crush composition (Saturday, Feb. 25). “The orchestra’s flexible. They can play anything really,” Pierce said, noting CSO’s collaborations with Smokey Robinson, the Beach Boys, Sarah McLachlan, Styx, Flaming Lips, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and the Moody Blues, the band that founded the symphonic-rock genre. “If you were to put Primus on stage, it might not make sense,” Pierce conceded, while insisting the challenge of hip hop would not necessarily be outside of the realm of neo-classical possibility. Some CSO shows are less about music than the cultural landscape surrounding it. Even Comic Con and something as decidedly unclassical as video games—if the audience can set aside their devices long enough—are part of the CSO’s aptly named Geek Series. This sub-schedule of shows will bring something called “The Pokemon Symphonic Evolutions” to Boettcher next March.
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“Video games are where a lot of living composers are making their living now,” Pierce said. Will a Pokemon be hidden in the French horn? Maybe. If those shows seem unusual, picture the symphony collaborating with Chicago’s legendary Second City comedy troupe. Keep trying. “It’s going to be nuts. I mean, it’s going to be ridiculous,” Pierce
said. “But it’s going to be a blast.” Such ventures are not just exciting for the CSO, but for the collaborating artists as well, many of whom had never considered such prospects before—and if they had, had never actually donned the glass slippers that go with getting backed by a symphony orchestra. “I’m a Denver native, so for
Ben Folds
OCTOBER Kellogg’s Concerto World Premiere Featuring Yumi Hwang-Williams OCT 14-15
NOVEMBER MASTERWORKS
OCT 16
INSIDE THE SCORE
MASTERWORKS
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OCT 21-23
FRI-SAT 7:30 SUN 1:00 ■
OCT 28
NOV 18-20
POPS / GEEK
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Christopher Dragon, conductor Special 35th Anniversary Celebration! Concert performance includes full screening of the live action feature film!
FRI-SAT 7:30
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Andres Lopera, conductor
■
Peter Oundjian, conductor Silver Ainomäe, cello KODÁLY Dances of Galanta SHOSTAKOVICH Cello Concerto No. 1 in E-flat major, Op. 107 BARTÓK Concerto for Orchestra
NOV 26
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Elephant Revival with the Colorado Symphony
Raiders of the Lost Ark licensed by Lucasfilm Ltd and Paramount Pictures. Motion Picture, Artwork, Photos © 1981 Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
OCT 29
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Christopher Dragon, conductor Ben Folds, piano BEN FOLDS Concerto for Piano and Orchestra ✢ Complete program to be announced
Shostakovich Performed by Silver Ainomäe
Andrew Litton, conductor Colorado Symphony Chorus, Duain Wolfe, director Colorado Children’s Chorale, Deborah DeSantis, artistic director PUCCINI La Bohème
Movie at the Symphony: Raiders of the Lost Ark
Ben Folds: Master Work with the Colorado Symphony NOV 11-12
SUN 1:00
Christopher Dragon, conductor
La Bohème Conducted by Andrew Litton
MASTERWORKS
FRI-SAT 7:30
Courtney Lewis, conductor Augustin Hadelich, violin BARBER Symphony No. 1, Op. 9 BRITTEN Violin Concerto, Op. 15 BARBER Adagio for Strings ELGAR In the South, Op. 50
FRI-SAT 7:30
Brett Mitchell, conductor Yumi Hwang-Williams, violin BEETHOVEN Overture to King Stephen, Op. 117 DANIEL KELLOGG Rising Phoenix DVOŘÁK Symphony No. 8 in G major, Op. 88
Inside Dvořák Symphony No. 9 “From The New World”
Britten Performed by Augustin Hadelich NOV 4-5
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me to get to play at Boettcher Concert Hall with the Colorado Symphony is something that I didn’t know if I would ever make it to this place,” Elephant Revival’s Law said. And let’s just say the CSO has not forgotten the Denver Broncos or Colorado Rockies either. “I get to dream up these crazy things and see if they make sense,” Pierce said.
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