Life on Capitol Hill - June 2017

06 17 DENVER'S PARKS PRESENT AND FUTURE: THE FATE OF CITY GREEN SPACES WITH A POPULATION ON THE RISE

By Haines Eason There is no doubt Denver’s on the map with over 1,000 new residents arriving per month in 2016 (for a total of 13,028). Why are they coming? There are many theories: mountains, jobs, marijuana (perhaps not in that order). The short, collective answer: quality of life.

Quality of life is of course an umbrella phrase with many contributing components: affordable housing, ease of transit (for work or play), nice weather, gainful employment. There are others. Among those, where would you rank access to nature? In a city, that of course means access to parks and greenways. And in Denver, some would say public green spaces are under strain.

“I’m very concerned with the density of the city increasing, that the amount of open space and parkland we have, per capita, is diminishing,” says Jay Rust, a Capitol Hill resident and founding member of FANS for Cheesman Park, a Registered Neighborhood Organization (RNO).

Rust and his wife live overlooking the park.

So, how many acres of parkland does the city control? According to Cynthia Karvaski, Denver Parks and Recreation Communications, Marketing & Media Relations Specialist, Denver presently owns “20,422 acres of park land of which

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A worker cleans a concrete pump truck at downtown Denver's Civic Center Station. The station closed last July for renovations and the project was to take 12 months. RTD says the timeframe is now 18 months. Read more on page 8. Photo by Sara Hertwig.

14,200 is mountain parks and 6,222 is urban parks.

“Over the last two years (2014-2016) we have acquired approximately 280 additional acres. This does not include the DEN Open Space which is 198-acres owned by the City and County of Denver, Department of Aviation (DIA) but maintained by Denver Parks and Recreation.”

With this in mind, how many just acres of parkland per person can Denver residents claim, year over year? The U.S. Census Bureau reported July 2014 the city’s population was 663,963. The July 2016 figures are an estimated 693,060 for an increase year over year of 29,097 with 2017 estimates widely expected to top the 700,000 mark.

With 5,942 acres in of urban-area parkland in 2014

and 6,222 in 2016, it’s clear the city is adding to its inventory. But is the pace of acquisition keeping up with population growth? In 2014, there were nearly nine urban park acres per 1,000 residents (8.94). In 2016? The same, if not a little more: 8.97.

So, what’s really at issue here?

Parks: event spaces or quiet gardens?

When you speak to Jay Rust, the first thing you notice is how much he loves Denver, its quality of life and, especially, Cheesman Park. The quality of life here is something Rust has had a hand in improving over CONTINUED ON 7

GOLDEN TRIANGLE PARTNERSHIP SEEKS ADDITIONAL FUNDS FOR CITY SERVICES Registered Neighborhood Organization also eyes General Improvement District status for long-term solution

By Jennifer Turner The Golden Triangle, which is bounded by Speer, Colfax and Lincoln, is one of the most high-profile neighborhoods in Denver. It is home to a growing number of residents and some of the city’s most visible cultural attractions, including the Denver Art Museum. However, with the area’s

The Colorado People's Alliance brings The People's Party to town

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increased utilization comes the need for improved infrastructure, including expanded trash pickup and other services. The nonprofit Golden Triangle Partnership (GTP) is working closely with City Council to try and secure more funding.

The GTP was established in January and Leslie Horna is the Executive Director. The organization was formed from the merger of Golden Triangle Association (GTA), a volunteer residential neighborhood association, and Golden Triangle Museum District Association to create one group representing all residential, business, civic, cultural and community stakeholders.

The vision of GTP is to advance the Triangle as an

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international arts and cultural destination, but the organization currently lacks the funding and resources to support the increased demands on the neighborhood. It relies heavily on residents and businesses, both of whom volunteer their time to pick-up trash, clean-up graffiti and manage pet waste stations.

“I think the growth in Denver has happened so fast in recent years that the focus has been more on the developing communities,” Horna said. “The more well established neighborhoods, like the CONTINUED ON 11

A look back over the history of one of the nation's best Pridefests

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2 11 16 CITY COUNCIL Publishers Jill Farschman Jay Farschman Editor Haines Eason Associate Editor Jason McKinney Advertising Jill Farschman Alecia Stark

Parks and Rec centers are Denver’s jewels

By Deborah Ortega 14 years ago, the Denver City Council enacted a strategic plan for the city’s parks and recreational centers. We called it Game Plan 2003. It was tied to the larger, 20-year comprehensive plan developed for the city in 2000. Many of the ideas for the future of Denver’s parks and recreation centers came from Denver

Graphic Design Alecia Stark Photographer Sara Hertwig Writers Liz Clift · D. Todd Clough Becca Dierschow · Haines Eason Peter Jones · Linda Katchen, Ph. D. Jason McKinney · Stephen Molyneux Deborah Ortega · J. Patrick O'Leary J.L. Schultheis Price · John Showalter Jennifer Turner

EDITORIAL editor@denvermetromedia.com Press releases, story ideas and news tips due by June 19th for the June issue, published the first Wednesday of each month.

ADVERTISING sales@denvermetromedia.com 303.831.8634 Get your message to your neighbors in Capitol Hill, Cheesman Park, Congress Park, Uptown, Alamo Placitas, Country Club, Cherry Creek North, South City Park and Golden Triangle.

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ACTIVIST COPA brings The People's Party to City Park

By Stephen Molyneux On Wednesday, June 14, Colorado People's Alliance (COPA) brings their second annual event—La Fiesta del Pueblo—of The People's Party to City Park Pavilion, from 6:00 to 8:30p.m.

COPA is a member-driven organization identifying and examining social issues through a social justice lens— focused on racial, climate, economic and immigrant justice—dedicated to winning progressive social change by building alliances and leaders. The People's Party means to bring community

LETTERS Customer perspective of Cherry Creek Mall parking fees I have lived in the area and shopped at the Cherry Creek Mall since it’s opening. The day paid parking began, two friends and I were having our usual meet-for-coffee-solve-the-world’sproblems outside of Nordstrom’s.

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derful place for residents of Capitol Hill and those throughout Denver to enjoy great recreational and leisure activities.

It will be a wonderful place for the entire community.

Though it took a few years to identify funding for the completion of the Carla Madison Rec Center, I never doubted that my former colleague, Councilwoman Jeanne Robb, would find the dollars. She was a strong advocate for the residents that wanted this recreational center. I supported her efforts because open spaces and recreational centers are vital to our city’s success as a growing community. It is important to continue the progress we have made over the past

residents, as they should; these are your parks and your recreational centers.

In 2003, Denver asked for improvements to city parks, including more open spaces and better amenities. Residents asked the same for the rec centers. These were included in Game Plan 2003, and through the great work of the City and the Parks and Recreation Department, we have realized many goals.

Capitol Hill residents will soon benefit from one of these goals, the opening of the Carla Madison Recreational Center, located next to East High School at the Colfax and Josephine intersection. Ground was broken in late 2015, and the center is due to open at the end of this summer. When this regional center is completed, it will be a won-

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together, celebrate past success and prepare for work ahead. At the COPA office on 700 Kalamath St. in the Denver Open Media building, community organizer Lupita Carrasquillo said, “The People's Party comes out of the group's belief in ‘joyous rebellion’.”

Carrasquillo said members will share their stories and information will be presented on the COPA members participate in Colorado Unity Rally, work COPA does, not only Jan. 14, 2017, outside the Martin Luther King, Jr. during legislative sessions, Public Library in Aurora. but, "a long term vision of what the organization's work will look tarian Society for 86 days before being like in Colorado." A people's award is granted a stay of deportation on May 12.

Founded in the fall of 2015 to honor slated for Meyer Law Office, which specializes in immigration law and rep- the legacies of Rights For All People and resents activist Jeanette Vizguerra, a CONTINUED ON 22 local who took sanctuary in First Uni-

My girlfriends and I used to love to spend hours at the mall, walking from one end to the other, finding gifts for upcoming birthdays or shopping for shoes and clothing. We would have lunch in the Nordstrom Cafe or the California Pizza Kitchen. The introduction of paid parking has deterred us. If the intent is truly to keep out non-shoppers’from parking at the mall, why not start charging after the first 3 or even 4 hours?

The Cherry Creek Mall has lost some business since paid parking. The [recent] positive spin in ... by Jennifer Turner seems more like a marketing ploy for the mall that any true feelings shared by its regular customers. In a sense they are right: now you just go there, ... you know

timing and made sure I still had the ticket to note what time I had entered.

As I was getting up to leave, one of my friends had forgotten something he felt important to tell me. Needless to say, I was 3 minutes over the time when I went to the ticket kiosk and had to pay $3. I found it infuriating … the cost of my cappuccino had now gone up by $3, or that’s how it felt.

My friends like to meet at the mall for coffee as it is close to their homes and allows them to do some errands while they are there. On bad weather days, we would go early in the morning and walk to get our exercise as others did as well then we would enjoy a coffee and roll at one of the coffee kiosks. We no longer do that. We walk by ourselves and go have our coffee at Whole Foods.

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7 GREAT DENVER-AREA SUMMER FESTIVALS

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Denver Berkeley Park Arts & Music Festival 6/10 - 6/11 ∙ Berkeley Park

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The Denver Greek Festival 6/16 - 6/18 ∙ Assumption Greek Orthodox Church

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Juneteenth Music Festival 6/17 ∙ Five Points Neighborhood

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Denver PrideFest 6/17 - 6/18 ∙ Civic Center Park

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105th Meridian BuskerFest 6/23 - 6/24 ∙ Union Station

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Cherry Blossom Festival 6/24 - 6/25 ∙ Sakura Square

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Cherry Creek Arts Festival 7/1 - 7/3 ∙ Cherry Creek

Enjoy delicious foods, live music, local and national artists, create your own masterpiece in the Creation Station and show off a creative face painting.

Try our traditional Greek food, while immersing yourself in the sounds of live Greek music and traditional dance entertainment.

Juneteenth celebrates African American freedom and achievement while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures.

Colorado’s largest regional celebration of LGBT Pride. The free festival features live entertainment on three stages, as well as more than 200 vendors, food and drink.

Photo courtesy of the Hellenic Community of Denver.

Featuring street performers, live bands, film screenings, face-painters, interactive workshops & a scavenger hunt at Denver’s glorious Union Station.

Celebrates Japanese heritage and culture through live entertainment, food and drink, a marketplace and informative exhibits and demonstrations.

A world-class and award-winning celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts. The Cherry Creek Shopping Center offers free parking all weekend in all lots and decks.

For more information, visit denvermetromedia.com

Photo courtesy of The GLBT Community Center.

CAPITOL HILL AND CHEESMAN PARK SCHEDULED FOR TRASH CART CONVERSION BY LATE SUMMER

By Jennifer Turner If you live in the Capitol Hill area still have a dumpster in your alley, it will be replaced with a black trash cart

by September, at the latest.

Capitol Hill, Cheesman Park and Country Club are scheduled for July or August conversion. Congress Park and Cherry Creek residents are in the last group and their dumpsters will be removed in September.

This transition has been underway since 2010 and impacts people who live in dwellings with seven or fewer units.

Apartments buildings are managed separately, and will continue to be serviced by dumpsters.

Charlotte Pitt of Denver Solid Waste Management recently attended a Congress Park RNO meeting to discuss the transition. She said, “Waste is a tricky issue, because, in essence, it’s the inefficiency of your life. It touches everyone and we realize the transition to trash carts is a big change. Change is hard. Our goal is to make this transition as easy as possible for everyone.”

The transition to trash carts will save Denver money on several fronts.

It will help to eliminate the high volume of illegal dumping taking place.

Contractors and others have been cited for disposing of items in alley dumpsters rather than taking them to dumps and paying for that service.

For many years, Denver has also operated three types of trash collection services—requiring different trucks— due to the varying sizes of trash and

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recycling containers. The new black trash carts are identical to the purple recycling and green compost containers, so the same trucks can be used to pick them up. Dumpsters and manual trash collection require different trucks. The cost and labor to maintain only one set of trucks is substantially lower.

According to Pitt, dumpsters are also becoming a thing of the past and the only place outside of Denver that she is aware of still using side-load dumpsters is Wyoming. It had also become more difficult and expensive to purchase trucks equipped to handle the dumpsters. The city was special ordering dumpster-capable trucks at a considerable cost increase. Some of the removed dumpsters have been repurposed. Ones that aren’t in good condition are sold for scrap metal.

The vast majority of Denver neighborhoods have already converted to trash carts with some positive results. According to Pitt, between 2015-2016, there was a 140 pound perhousehold decrease in the amount of trash collected, which equates to 30,000 pounds, and less trash in city dumps. On average, there was also 50 pounds more recycling per household collected.

As for the carts themselves, the standard-issue ones are 65 gallons and hold four to five bags of trash.

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The atmosphere at Chocolate Lab on East Colfax Avenue is sleek but it’s the aroma of chocolate-infused appetizers and entrees that really captivates.

BUSINESS Column and photos by J.L. Schultheis Price

OPENINGS

CHOCOLATE LAB

Every month, there’s at least one new eatery to explore. This month, there are several—one dark, one light and one that’s going to the dogs.

Chocolate Lab is a concept in a league of its own. Simply put, it’s a chocolate addict’s dream.

For seven years, Chocolate Lab has manufactured truffles but now owners expanded to offer a full menu in their first brick-and-mortar location. The eatery is located at 2504 E. Colfax Ave. in a space recently known for New World Cheese.

Owner Phil Simonson has given the space a nice facelift and a more contemporary feel. There are laboratory accents like a huge beaker painted on the back wall. The new space gives diners the opportunity to sit and watch meal prep at a chef’s bar or select a private table.

“We expect our space to become a new neighborhood hangout for everyone. In addition to the food and current desserts/chocolates, we will be including wine tastings, beer pairings and other specialty cocktails that blend well with all of our dishes,” he said.

The new space allows Simonson to expand his unique approach to truffles.

Try the Drunken Onion, a truffle with wine-soaked goat cheese and caramelized Vidalia onions or another that pairs

absinthe, star anise and fennel into a memorable combination. Some, like his pineapple habanero truffle, bring some heat. In all, he creates over 40 types of truffles to eat in or take home but the chocolate on the menu doesn’t stop there.

Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and beef stew—all will come with a chocolate accent. There’s bourbon chocolate barbecue sauce and chocolate balsamic dressing. The charred cauliflower is dished with a dark chocolate picaca sauce, a Catalan style of pesto.

“Everything but the mac ‘n’ cheese and the grilled cheese sandwiches will be infused with chocolate,” Simonson added.

Lunch and dinner service is available. Main dishes include a pulled pork sandwich, cocoa-espresso rubbed beef tenderloin and honey-chili glazed Brussels sprouts with cocoa nibs and mizithra cheese. Drool over the bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with milk chocolate and Gruyere cheese, or the shrimp and risotto with white chocolate and strawberries.

“I want to create a fun and intimate atmosphere for people to gather and indulge in something they can’t find anywhere else in Denver.”

Simonson fell into the world of chocolate after his spouse made him truffles one Valentine’s Day. He prides himself in working with premium ingredients, using only fair trade chocolate and as many local ingredients as possible.

The restaurant’s number is 720-536-5037.

Hours are Monday-Thursday, 11:00a.m.-9:00p.m., Friday-Saturday, 11:00a.m.-12:00a.m., Sunday, 11:00a.m.-7:00p.m.

WHITE PIE PIZZERIA

“Asymmetrical and rustic, crispy and charred.” While that sounds like the

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The Wallenta brothers' White Pie Pizzeria at 1702 Humboldt St. serves New Haven-style pizza and a selection of pastas. description of a cake I recently made, it’s actually how White Pie Pizzeria’s owners describe their beloved New Haven-style pizza.

While New Haven pies are often cooked over coals, there’s no doubt what fuels this new venture from the brothers behind Uptown’s Dos Santos Taqueria de Mexico around the corner.

Walls of wood serve as area dividers, décor accents and lend their fragrance to the open space. A wood oven anchors the back of the shop. Select a seat at the circular counter to watch the chefs work, one of the marble-topped community tables or your own private spot.

Brothers Kris and Jason Wallenta are on a roll. Dos Santos is often packed so they must have needed a new project.

Kris is the chef here, too; Jason handles the rest. He built the eatery’s wine bottle chandelier.

The restaurant is named for a favorite treat from their youth. As youngsters, the brothers called pizza without tomato sauce ‘white’ and the name lives on.

“It’s an homage to our history,” Kris Wallenta explained.

As we debated the differences between my love—NY thin crust pizza— and his New Haven approach, I learned that the two varieties are more different than expected. They don’t even use the same type of flour.

White Pie is a family affair. Wallenta’s wife makes the desserts. Dad works behind the counter. Even brother Jason’s fiancée works here.

“Whatever we do, we put a lot of passion into it,” he promised.

Newcomers should try the puffy garlic bread and the white pie first but a handful of pasta dishes are also available.

Gnocchi in white wine brodo and lasa-

gna al forno were just two of the pasta plates last month. Gluten-free options are offered for both pizza and pasta.

A wide range of wines is offered by the bottle or glass. House cocktails include an Aperol Spritz and a frozen Negroni at reasonable rates. The address is 1702 Humboldt St. and hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 5:00p.m.-10:00p.m., Sunday, 4:00p.m.9:00p.m. The number is 303-862-5323.

THE CHEWERY PET BAKERY & PET BAR

Fine vittles for the four-legged customer are baking at The Chewery Pet Bakery & Pet Bar in the METLO building, 1111 Broadway.

Located on the ground level, Chewery is a new offering from Apollo Peak, best known for its pet wines. Yes, wines.

If you haven’t heard of their Pinot Meow, MeowMosa or CharDogNay, you’ve missed an episode of Shark Tank and the latest trend in pet love.

Dog wine’s base is chamomile tea to promote relaxation. Cats get catnip tea colored with beets. Dog treats are made from recycled beer grains (wheat and barley) and peanut butter ground onsite.

Some of the dog wines are available on tap and, yes, there’s a bottomless option.

Apollo Peak started brewing their teas on Broadway in January. The demand quickly exceeded the space so manufacturing is now done in Golden.

This is a place for pets and owners to hang. Owners hope to add human beverages soon. And don’t forget the tasting parties! Check out the schedule on Apollo Peak’s Dog Bar Facebook page. They should be a howl.

Hours are Wednesday-Sunday, 10:00a.m.-6:00p.m.

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A beagle called Max checks out the offerings at The Chewery Pet Bakery & Bar at 1100 Broadway.

A new distillery tasting room at Whiskey Bar, 2201 Larimer St., features spirits from Monument’s 3 Hundred Days craft ’shine venture.

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incorporate items like bacon nut brittle.

This growth may mean some menu expansion. Ryan might add rotating fresh pastas, an expanded charcuterie program and possibly a bread program.

It’s been an impressive success story—one that Ryan attributes to a lot of help.

“To have even a slight chance of actually making it in this business you need a great team from both front and back of house, a helluva bookkeeper, a reasonable landlord and a whole bag of luck!”

The Plimoth sits at 2335 E. 28th Ave. You can scroll through the current menu at theplimoth.com.

The hours are Monday, 4:00p.m.8:00p.m., Tuesday-Thursday, 4:00p.m.-9:00p.m., Friday-Saturday, 4:00p.m.-10:00p.m.

Since the 1870s, Colorado’s unofficial slogan has been ‘three hundred days of sunshine.’ Out-of-staters are skeptical but it rings true.

A local entrepreneur grabbed it to launch 3 Hundred Days of Shine, a Monument, Colorado business that makes a ‘smooth moonshine’ enhanced with natural ingredients.

Sample the wares at a new tasting room inside Whiskey Bar, 2201 Larimer St. The company makes nine regular blends packaged in quart Mason jars. Flavors include Margarita Moon, Peach Cobbler, barrel-aged Colorado Wheat, plus seasonal specials.

Whiskey Bar’s tasting room is downstairs at 22nd St. Cocktails, flights of shots and mixed ‘shine drinks are all available Thursday-Saturday, 5:00p.m.-10:00p.m., the room’s hours.

Owner Cory Schwab has run the bar for 14 years. He recently finished a refresh of the main bar level including bathroom upgrades. He hopes the new Tasting Room will appeal to folks planning special events.

Most tastes come with a check to pay but Rockies fans should bring their ticket stubs. Schwab occasionally honors those for a free sample. Learn more at 3hundreddays.com.

ICON SUIT

Made-to-measure men’s suits have arrived in Cherry Creek North (CCN) with the opening of Icon Suit at 220 Steele St. In addition to suits, they also offer custom overcoats, shoes and ties.

“Forget everything you've ever known about shopping—Icon Suit is here to simplify your life and revolutionize your wardrobe.” That’s the company philosophy.

While you’ll get measured and select fabrics in Denver, the suits are handmade in Italy so there’s a bit of turnaround time. A variety of British, Italian and less conventional styles are offered.

The website is iconsuit.com. Call 720-646-7838. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, 10:00a.m.-6:00p.m.

BONOBOS

Several blocks southwest at 105 Fillmore St. in CCN, Bonobos is also open and featuring a full line of upscale menswear “built around finding the perfect fit.”

This address is a brick and mortar ‘guideshop’ that promises, “No crowds, no waiting, and face-to-face style assistance from a knowledgeable Guide. Your search for a better-fitting wardrobe ends at Bonobos.”

The retailer first launched in 2007

making dress pants for men. Then a variety of shirts, suits and much more were added. Their Jetsetter suit comes in a slim version with a “hint of stretch.”

One curious note: Wal-Mart is in talks to buy this company—a deal that could seem counterintuitive.

The Bonobos number is 720415-7103 and an appointment seems advisable. Hours are weekdays, 11:00a.m.7:00p.m., Saturday, 10:00a.m.-7:00p.m., Sunday, noon-5:00p.m.

JALAN FACIAL SPA

The northeast corner of Clarkson Street and East 17th Avenue is now home to Jalan Facial Spa. The salon offers three different types of facials varying in length plus foot and hand reflexology, jade stone massage and acupuncture.

Prices start at $25 for reflexology and $35 for facials then rise. Package deals combining two services are also offered.

“Head to toes” is one package. “Fabulous 50” is another geared for individuals of a certain age.

Located at 801 E. 17th Ave., Jalan is open Sunday-Tuesday, 10:00a.m.7:00p.m. and Wednesday-Saturday, 10:00a.m.-7:00p.m. The number’s 720476-5593 and jalanspa.com is the web address for online booking.

PARK TAVERN

Here’s an update on the jaw-dropping renovation that, so far, exceeds my expectations. Many months have been spent renovating this neighborhood hangout at 931 E. 11th Ave. The bar and rooftop deck are now finished and in use. The generous upper deck lets folks relax above the traffic. The gaming and dining areas are still getting some finishing touches.

DENVER DIVERS & SWIM SCHOOL OF DENVER

Renovations at Denver Divers, 557 Milwaukee St., wrapped up in late May— just in time for the company’s annual Underwater Poker event. New ceilings and improved lighting were the main CONTINUED ON 6

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W NO

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CHANGES

THE PLIMOTH

When Peter Ryan decided to launch his own eatery, he chose an unusual space—the long vacant 2300 block of East 28th Avenue. His “modern yet casual approach to classical French dishes” caught fire at The Plimoth, a modest eatery on the corner named after his hometown of Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Success proved a bit cramped, however, so this chef/owner decided to expand westward into a second storefront. It took two years.

“The whole idea was to make the machine run better. More seating. More room for everyone,” Ryan said.

Everything from the acoustics to the A/C works better now. There’s more storage, space to hold private events and specialty dinners, plus a second kitchen.

Ryan expects to provide an enhanced experience for both guests and staffers.

He’s added 20 seats in the dining area.

The new kitchen will handle pastries and cold prep.

What’s not changing is the focus on working with small farms and unique food purveyors, he added.

Unique indeed. Ryan’s cracklin’ chicken is served with fiddlehead ferns, grilled mackerel is paired with a relish of snap peas and almonds and even desserts

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gains. The heated, saltwater pool now glitters with this new illumination.

Partner Ali Miller said poker night raised $600 for Dive Pirates, a group that introduces disabled individuals to Scuba.

If you know someone with a disability who might have an interest, check out divepirates.org.

Denver Divers is also home to a year-round swim school for future divers just learning to swim. The number is 303-399-2877.

KENJI SUSHI

Last month, I wrote about Genki Sushi opening at 1422 E. 18th Ave. Already, the name’s been changed. A trademark dispute of some sort perhaps?

The sparkling spot is now dubbed Kenji Sushi. Kenji means health and energy—a sensible choice for a sushi operation that promises to be 100 percent natural.

The web address is now kenjisushidenver. com. Hours and menu are unchanged.

DEPARTURE ELEVATED

Late last summer, I gave readers a sneak peak of the rooftop bar at Halcyon Hotel in CCN. It’s run by Departure

Restaurant + Lounge on the ground floor and is called, appropriately, Departure Elevated.

The seasonal space is now open again dishing up panoramic views, globally inspired cocktails and modern Asian fare from Chef Gregory Gourdet. A dim sum cart roams the space as well.

Elevated opens at 4:00p.m. weekdays and 11:00a.m. weekends. The space also rents for private events and has its own website—departureelevated.com.

MY OTHER BAR

New management at My Other Bar, 1120 E. Sixth Ave., adjacent to Safeway, means a few in full bloom.

“We’ve completely revamped our draft beer offerings. We’re trying some new infusions like blueberry vodka. We’re completely revamping the patio,” said manager Meg Wilson.

Wilson has welcomed Alamo Placita neighbors and other groups wanting to schedule periodic meet-ups. They can take advantage of daily happy hour specials. That runs from 4:00p.m.-6:30p.m.

The eatery revolves around its woodfired pizza oven. In addition to pies, it delivers other dishes like potato nachos.

THE WAG SHOP

Last month, I wrote about the closing of The Wag Shop at 2626 E. Colfax Ave. The building had been sold but evidently, that deal collapsed. Groomer/co-owner Deidre Hered decided to close the space anyway and the building is still for sale.

She instead switched to a mobile grooming operation on wheels. Hered expressed eagerness to get back to her roots and rediscover what she loved most—grooming four-legged clients. She can still be reached at 303-282-1894.

ARTISAN CENTER

Since 1977, the Artisan Center in CCN has been delighting shoppers on the corner of East Third Avenue and Detroit Street. That means they’ve just marked the end of year number 40!

The company hosted an anniversary bash in late April. For four decades, Ellen Seale Durst owned the shop known for eclectic art, crafts, cards and other gems.

She sold the business to co-workers Alex Nielsen and Julie Scott effective May 1.

Together, Scott and Nielsen have worked a combined 25 years here; this is the first retail ownership for either woman. “[Julie] is an artist at heart; I’m more the business side but I’ve been buying

jewelry for the shop for eight years,” Nielsen explained. The Founder, as Durst is now called, still works two days a week.

Nielsen told LIFE she embraces the “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” philosophy so the Center will stay firmly on its current course. Artisan Center’s website is artisancenterdenver.com.

ABEND GALLERY

Folks driving by York Street and Colfax Avenue in May were shocked to learn that the Abend Gallery building on the southwest corner had been sold.

The gallery is relocating to LoDo and will reopen at 1412 Wazee St. in mid-June.

Paper blocked views of the interior on May 15. That was the last day for walk-in traffic; appointment access is available until June 14.

Abend will debut a new show on June 15 at its new space. It is called ‘Palette’ and represents the vision of NY painter and curator Dina Brodsky who has saved her paint palettes over the years and is now giving them second life. The show opens with an artist’s reception starting at 6:00p.m.

Charlie Wooley of St. Charles Town Company bought the building and has announced plans to transform it into

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7 and memorabilia will be on sale starting June 3,” said co-owner Jim Doescher.

After 32 years, he and business partner John Donohoe felt it was just time to do something new when their lease was up. Hours for the liquidation or a final trip to the area’s last video store will be daily, noon-6:00p.m.

FLOR

Carpet-by-the-yard design shop Flor on East Second Avenue in CCN shut recently.

“This is not goodbye,” a sign on the front door reads. Indeed, Flor is still operating its online store at flor.com but you’ll have to travel to the East or West Coast to locate a Flor retail store.

GIGANTIC CLEANERS

Renovations at Denver Divers wrapped up in time to host Underwater Poker For Pirates, a fundraiser for Dive Pirates. Photo courtesy Denver Divers. multiple retail spaces. His firm also orchestrated the rebirth of the Lowenstein complex in the 2500 block of Colfax Avenue.

There’s also a Mexican hot dog with bacon, pico and more, plus a pair of burritos offered late. Call 303-524-9236 for details.

MOXIE

CLOSINGS

A committed fan base seems to be growing at Moxie, the diminutive eatery on South Broadway that opened last year.

Moxie is the newest vision from Dylan Moore, former chef/owner of the dis-

VIDEOTIQUE

“It is with sadness and regret that we announce that VIDEOTIQUE will be closing on July 1.” That was the message sent

The Kim family, who operated Gigantic Cleaners at First Avenue between Cook and Madison Streets for years, closed their business rapidly on April 29.

“We have not been able to find a new location due to the short time frame notice of terminating our lease,” Hong Kim explained.

The building his family rented is slated to become a new UC Health building but demolition hasn’t started.

Gigantic is still searching for a new home with around 1,500 square feet, plus dedicated parking.

“We are now planning to start a pickup and delivery service temporarily for our customer until we find a new location,” he said.

You can reach him at 720-9991904 to arrange for cleaning or pick up.

Kim hopes his regular customers will call with leads for a new, permanent location.

“We want to thank everyone for their patronage and support all of these years!” Kim added.

AMY’S NAILS

Next to Gigantic, Amy’s Nails has reportedly closed for good.

Y AND L SHOES AND REPAIRS

A major expansion at The Plimoth eatery on E. 28th Ave. has greatly increased dining room capacity and added a second kitchen. tinguished Deluxe eatery on the same stretch of Broadway. Moxie’s a gem.

Now late night hunger pangs can be cured at 70 Broadway with tacos Friday or Saturday evenings from 11:00p.m.3:00a.m. Each $3 taco comes with house salsa, chipotle cream and cotija cheese with cilantro. Two of the five versions can be served vegan.

to newspapers around town in late May. The shop at 1205 E. Ninth Ave. has served the Hill since 1985. It stood out as an all-inclusive shop focused on Capitol Hill, as well as the LGBT community.

During that time, VIDEOTIQUE amassed a vast library of 8,000 classic, foreign, indie and other films on DVD. “Our entire library along with fixtures

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At press time, the shoe shop next to Amy’s was holding a moving sale but it will be shut by the time you read this. The shop will move to 600 S. Holly St. and can still be reached at 303-333-9196.

XPRESSO TO GO

The quaint drive-up coffee spot has moved on. There’s just an outline in the asphalt where the espresso shack stood for over a decade.

Send your biz news or questions to jeanne@lifeoncaphill.com.

Parks

CONTINUED FROM 1

the years.

“We moved into our condo unit in 1999. What we saw out of our window, looking at where the bus goes through, during that time and for the next few years, was guys getting pimped, dropping trow, grabbing their crotch, being picked up by cars, drug deals going on…”

Rust notes park infrastructure in Cheesman and other parks was in disrepair as well. The general state of Cheesman and Denver’s parks in general is what led Rust and friends to form FANS for Cheesman Park. In years to come, it led him to serve on the Denver Parks and Recreation Advisory Board representing his council district, District 10.

For Rust, parks are first and foremost for individual or small-group enjoyment, not paid participation.

Speaking to the Cheesman Park Master Plan, completed in 2008, Rust says “in a nutshell, what the community told us is they want to see the park restored to its historical significance. They want reduced crime, reduced traffic. They want a park they can enjoy; that’s the full spectrum of the diverse community, that includes everyone—including families with children, etc.”

After the Plan came a bond initiative to help fund desired improvements, and, Rust says, these efforts produced the Cheesman Park we have today.

“People who love Cheesman Park don’t want to see us go backwards,” he says.

But he fears, in some ways, that’s the direction in which the City is headed.

Denver’s parks: proposals, problems, protest Denver’s parks are indeed places for quiet enjoyment. But more frequently in recent years they have also become sites of events, some admissions based and some free, some lasting a few hours and some for a few days.

Cynthia Karvaski says a new Parks and Recreation permitting system was installed after 2014 and data before then is not available, but that “in 2015 there were 287 … events in parks and in 2016 there were 369.” An increase overall of 28.5 percent.

Most operators abide by the City’s rules when it comes to operating in the city’s parks. Residents might not love that they don’t have access to a park on a given day, but infractions are proportionally few and access often resumes without issue. But in recent months there have been some high-profile incidents and developments concerning Denver’s parks.

CONTINUED ON 14

ay!

8

CIVIC CENTER NOT QUITE FINISHED; MASSIVE PARKING PLANNED FOR NEW UCHEALTH BUILDING spaces required by zoning, with 257 offBy J. Patrick O’Leary street spaces in a four-level underground Were you hoping the renovated Civic “Ample parking” at 1st and parking garage—one of the largest Center Station would open this July? Cook in Cherry Creek? parking ratios of any office building in Relax. It’s going to be a while.

“18 months is the time frame,” said UCHealth will be the sole tenant Cherry Creek.

“Recognizing that parking spaces Scott Reed, Regional Transportation in a new, five-story, 89,000 square District’s (RTD) Assistant General footbuilding at 100 Cook St., adding a are often an issue and concern in the Cherry Creek area, the partners Manager, Communications. wanted to ensure that there is A week before press (May ample parking for both patients 22), Reed said the front and visitors at the facility,” said doors would be open on Paula Freund, Manager of Public Broadway, but only to allow Relations for UCHealth. “Much employees in and out. attention has also been given to One of RTD’s busiest traffic flow, specifically designing regional bus transit the parking entrance and exit centers—serving 18 bus to minimize traffic flow into the routes and 15,000 riders nearby residential neighborhood.” daily—the station closed for Freund said it’s too early at renovation last year on July this time to consider whether 3. At the time, RTD reported others would be able to use the the closure was to be underground parking at the approximately 12 months. facility.

The new Civic Valet parking will increase Center building design includes nine bus bays, UCHealth's new 100 Cook St. facility will purportedly provide capacity to 300 spaces due to twice the required parking. Photo courtesy UCHealth. different parking strategies and glass-enclosed terminal building, rebuilt bus concourse, bus central Denver location to complement use of an adjacent surface lot across Cook Street, she explained. ramp extension connecting Broadway its Aurora facility.

UCHealth will offer primary and to Lincoln and an open view from 16th “100 Cook addresses the key factors Street Mall to the State Capitol. to success in this urban location: premier advanced care, including cancer care, RTD claims the building will be quality and construction, ample parking women’s care, additional specialties, imaging and an easier to maintain and repair in the and convenience,” according to Robert state-of-the-art long-term, and a parcel of land will be Jacobs, founder of Brookhaven Capital outpatient surgery center at the new preserved for future development.

Partners, the owner and developer of the building. The new building will use typical construction materials, including For more information and to sign project, in a release. up for updates, visit rtd-denver.com/ Suspicious of Brookhaven’s “ample steel and concrete, with glass for the civiccenter. parking” remark? The developer claims exterior, and it will meet or exceed LEED it will provide more than double the 125 Silver standards, according to Freund.

Green space will feature ground cover and a tree canopy along the sidewalks, as well as potentially a rooftop deck with greenery,” she said.

Davis Partnership Architects designed the building, and Swinerton Builders are putting it up, with completion expected in late 2018. No date has been set for demolition or groundbreaking.

Goodbye School Boards, hello high rise Mill Creek Residential is building Modera Cap Hill, an eight-story, 197-unit apartment building on the site of the former Colorado Association of School Boards office on the corner of East 12th Avenue and Grant Street, according to spokesperson Samantha Chalmers. The property was purchased for $6 million.

The market-rate development will include 68 studios, 88 one- and 41-two bedroom apartments and two levels of underground parking for 227 vehicles.

The average unit size will be 783 square feet, and most will have private balconies. A fitness center, conference area and outdoor pool deck are planned amenities.

“Green” features will include LED lighting and Energy Star washers and dryers in every unit and electric car charging stations. A dog-wash station and controlled-access bike room with fully equipped workshop are also planned.

Davis Partnership is the architect, and Shaw Construction is the builder.

Pre-leasing is anticipated in October 2018.

FINDING WATER WHERE THERE ISN’T: RECYCLING AND THE FUTURE OF USE

By J. Patrick O’Leary Part three in a three-part series looking at water needs in the Denver Metro area.

There’s just not enough water in the South Platte for homes, parks, golf courses, businesses, farms and fish. To provide water for all of its customers, Denver Water has developed conservation programs, as well as provided “recycled” water for use by Parks and Recreation, the Denver Zoo and others.

Water saved by recycling has provided enough for 35,000 homes, according to Denver Water’s website.

But it’s not fair to say those efforts are only for new residential development, according to Denver Water spokesperson Stacy Chesney.

“Denver Water is committed to serving the needs of every customer, present and future, within our service area,” said Chesney. “We plan 50 years or more into the future, and the challenges we incorporate into our plan-

ning include climate change, growth, demands on Colorado River supplies and more.”

Chesney said the “all in” approach, which includes conservation, recycling and the development of new water supplies, will ensure its customers continue to have clean, safe, reliable water.

“Using recycled water for purposes like irrigation and industrial uses allows us to use the right water for the right use. Once build-out is complete, the [recycled water delivery] project

will supply more than five billion gallons of recycled water every year— which is water we don’t have to take from a reservoir.”

Reservoirs are what make it possible to deliver water year-round.

“Denver Water’s goal is to fill its reservoirs each runoff season (late spring and early summer) because this is the storage that the metro area depends on until the next runoff season,” she said.

CONTINUED ON 10

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9 A short talk and guided relaxing meditation to help increase a 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

CALENDAR Please submit calendar entries on our website, denvermetromedia.com. Priority is given to advertisers, non-profits, no- or low-cost events and locations within our distribution map.

Fridays, 06/09-06/30 | 7:00a.m.-8:30a.m.

Daybreak Toastmasters Cat got your tongue? Public speaking and more. Call Bob after 6p.m. Now meeting on the second floor of the building. | 720-308-9090 State of Colorado Centennial Building, 1313 Sherman St. daybreaktoastmasters.org

Wednesdays & Saturdays, 06/07-07/05 Cherry Creek Fresh Market - 20th Season!

Since 1997, Colorado Fresh Markets' award winning seasonal outdoor markets feature a fresh mix of beautiful flowers, local produce, gourmet products and delicious cuisine from Colorado and beyond. Open rain, snow or shine and all holidays. | Cherry Creek Shopping Center Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 3000 E. 1st Ave. coloradofreshmarkets.com/markets Tuesdays-Thursdays, 06/07-07/05 | 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.

Civic Center EATS Delicious food, fresh air, gorgeous views, live music and a great cause - Metro Denver’s largest gathering of gourmet food trucks is a showcase of Denver's culinary and entrepreneurial diversity. | 303-861-4633 Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave. civiccenterconservancy.org

Sun, 06/18 | 1:00p.m.-6:00p.m.

Denver Rose Society Show Beautiful roses fill Mitchell Hall for the Denver Rose Society's Annual Show. Visitors can take in the radiant hues and fragrance of more than 200 roses cut from local gardens the morning of the show for judging & display. Price included w/ admission Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. botanicgardens.org/events/plant-shows

CLASSES, LECTURES & FORUMS Wednesdays, 06/07-07/05 | 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 Thursdays, 06/08-06/29 | 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

Wed, 06/21 | 6:30p.m.-8:00p.m.

The Citizens' Climate Lobby Citizens Climate Lobby is a non-profit, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address climate change. | 303-322-0079 First Unitarian Society of Denver, 1400 Lafayette St. facebook.com/CitizensClimateLobbyDenverChapter Sun, 06/25 | 6:20p.m.

Intergenerational Show and Tell Mixtape: "Hope I DON'T die before I get old" HOPE I DON'T DIE BEFORE I GET OLD. Bring a song or object that defines your generation. We'll hear from folds of ALL ages about their experiences with aging, while we learn about innovative aging programs in our community. | McNichols Building, 144 W. Colfax Ave. warmcookiesoftherevolution.org

SUMMER FUN

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 9:00a.m.-1:00p.m.

City Park Esplanade Fresh Market - 20th Season!

Since 1997, Colorado Fresh Markets' award winning seasonal outdoor markets feature a fresh mix of beautiful flowers, local produce, gourmet products and delicious cuisine from Colorado and beyond. Open rain, snow or shine and all holidays. | Sullivan Fountain, E. Colfax Av. & Columbine St. coloradofreshmarkets.com/markets

Thu, 06/15 | 6:20p.m.

How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse When zombies attack, the immediate threat is clear. How prepared is Denver? Individual resistance might work in a pinch, but how can we create solidarity? "If you agree with everyone in your coalition, you're not in a coalition". | McNichols Building, 144 W. Colfax Ave. warmcookiesoftherevolution.org

Tuesdays, 06/20 & 06/27 | 4:00p.m.-7:00p.m.

History Buffs and Brews: Drunken Botany with the Denver Botanic Gardens Stop in for happy hour as the Denver Botanic Gardens’ associate director of research talks about the role plants play in the spirits we love. Hear about some new research and taste these concepts for yourself. Meet at Cafe Rendezvous. | 303-447-8679 History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway historycoloradocenter.org/adults/history-buffs-brews

Photo courtesy of City Park Jazz.

Sundays, 06/11-08/06 | 6:00p.m.

City Park Jazz

City Park Jazz produces 10 free jazz concerts each summer in the crown jewel of Denver’s Parks, City Park. Jazz, blues and salsa, the predominant forms of music presented at the concerts, have a broad appeal to Denver's uniquely diverse, urban fans.

Sat, 06/10 | 6:00p.m.

Easy Drawing in the Gardens Make drawing easier and more enjoyable by learning the basics of perspective, composition control and the use of reference points and lines. After classroom instruction, students move outdoors to practice their techniques. | Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. botanicgardens.org Mondays, 06/12-07/03 | 12:00p.m.

Denver Laughter Club Meets every week on Laffy-ette Street! Upstairs in the Children's Chapel for most of the of year, summers at the Chessman Park Pavilion (east side of park). Call Meredith for info, free. | 303-877-9086 First Unitarian Society of Denver, 1400 Lafayette St. denverlaughs.com Mondays, 06/12-07/03 | 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m.

Learn to Code Meetup An open house/study group for anyone, at any level, with any interest in computer programming. No prior knowledge/ future commitment needed. | 720-865-1706 ideaLAB in Community Technology Center of DPL Central library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway meetup.com/learntocodedenver Tuesdays, 06/13-07/04 | 12:00p.m.-12:30p.m.

Meditation at Noon Take 30 minutes to connect to your heart, cultivate inner peace and happiness, and clarify your intention for the day, free. | 303-813-9551 KMC Colorado Capitol Hill, 1081 Marion St. meditationincolorado.org

Fridays, 06/09-06/30 | 5:00p.m.-6:00p.m.

Happiness Hour

YOUNG GUITAR STARS Enrich your child’s life through music!

Maestro Miguel Espinoza is a professional performer who loves teaching children and passing down the tradition of guitar playing. His credentials speak for themselves, from touring throughout Europe and the United States to receiving prestigious awards.

CONCERTS & LIVE MUSIC Fri, 06/09 | 5:30p.m.-7:30p.m.

Lawn Concert: Covenhoven Fans over the world are falling in love with Joel Van Horne's emotive symphonic-folk sound, blending powerful poetry with vast, sweeping soundscapes that posses the ability to transport the listener to another place and time. Free, no registration. | 720-354-4880 Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. clyffordstillmuseum.org Sun, 06/11 | 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m.

City Park Jazz: Pete Wernick & Flexigrass Free concert at the pavilion in City Park! Please follow park rules to keep this a family friendly event. Rain or shine event.

Pete Wernick & FLEXIGRASS is a supercharged blend of bluegrass with classic jazz and "Dr. Banjo" originals. | City Park City Park, 1729 Colorado Blvd. cityparkjazz.org Thu, 06/15 The Big Gay Sing For 35 years, the Denver Gay Men's Chorus has been a voice for equality and community in the Front Range. Join us for a very special celebration, with favorite music from over the years to Celebrate their Milestone Anniversary, as Pride Week begins. | 303-325-3959 Central Presbyterian Church, 1660 Sherman St. rmarts.org/dgmc.php Sun, 06/18 | 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m.

City Park Jazz: Linda Styles Free concert at the pavilion in City Park! Please follow park rules to keep this a family friendly event. Rain or shine event.

Linda’s melodic and electrifying vocal and stage performance has mesmerized audiences of all ages. | City Park City Park, 1729 Colorado Blvd. cityparkjazz.org Sun, 06/25 | 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m.

CONTINUED ON 13

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10 spur innovation in schools, close the digital divide among students and, through personalization of learning, fundamentally change how kids learn.

MyTech was made possible by Denver voters' approval of the 2016 bond and mill levy and is the first foray for DPS into equipping entire schools with one computer for every student. 40 middle and high schools applied to participate in this pilot program. Denver School of Innovation and Sustainable Design, Merrill and South are among the schools selected for the first year.

Youth One Book, One Denver (YOBOD) is a city-wide summer reading adventure for kids and their families.

The 2017 YOBOD selection is UpsideDown Magic by Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle and Emily Jenkins. The story chronicles the misadventures of nine-year-old Nory and her oddball friends. Together they prove upsidedown magic definitely beats right side up. Visit artsandvenuesdenver.com/ yobod to learn about upcoming YOBOD events, print out an activity booklet and receive weekly, customized reading suggestions via email. The authors will be visiting Denver to attend YOBOD events in late July. Pick up a copy of Upside-Down Magic at your local bookstore or library and join in the fun!

Congratulations to Bromwell Elementary, 2500 E. Fourth Ave., students whose art has been chosen for the District Wide Elementary Art Show at the Denver Art Museum: Zeger Mercier, Grace Turner, Kees Eckenhausen, Lola DeCamillis, Sophia Lyubchenco, Stella Eller and the entire fifth grade for the group project, The Colorado Flag Collage. A special congratulations to Grace Turner who has been honored with the top award in the whole district

SCHOOLS

By Linda Katchen, Ph.D. For most Denver students, June 2 is the last day of this school year. Testing is over. Grades are in. Graduating seniors are saying goodbye and starting on the next phase of their lives, whether it be college or careers. Many Denver seniors earned college credits while meeting graduation requirements, and this will save them time and money in the future. Some students will be returning to their same schools next year and some are moving to another level of their education. Congratulations, teachers, students and parents … you did it!

More than 400 high school seniors from across Denver received one of its highest honors, the Seal of Biliteracy. This honor is given to graduating seniors who are proficient in more than one language. These seniors wore a special gold cord with their caps and gowns at graduation ceremonies. The Seal of Biliteracy represents greater professional opportunities in an increasingly global economy. Years ago, in many school districts, speaking a language other than English was considered a deficit. DPS today celebrates developing fluency in heritage languages and the opportunities it creates for students.

This fall, fourteen DPS schools are joining together in the My Tech initiative. Every student in these schools will receive a laptop for use in class and at home. MyTech is designed to

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Superintendent Tom Boasberg and Mayor Michael Hancock celebrate the annual Denver Public Schools (DPS) Shakespeare Festival with students.

Photo courtesy DPS. for "Best in Show."

McAuliffe Manual Middle School (MMMS), 2540 Holly St., an International Baccalaureate candidate school, provides a high-performing learning environment where all students are encouraged to excel academically and grow as lifelong learners through development of important character traits. In addition to core subjects, MMMS offers full-year courses in the arts, physical education, technology/ engineering and world languages, complemented by a robust program of after school enrichment and athletic programming. MMMS students receive increased instructional time (longer class periods, extended school day/ calendar), allowing them to master skills and content in preparation for high school and beyond. In the upcoming school year, MMMS will move into its permanent address at the Manual High School campus in the Whittier neighborhood. The founding 6th grade

class of 130 students will advance to 7th grade, and the school anticipates adding more than 100 new students to its incoming 6th grade class. MMMS serves families in nearby Northeast Denver, as well as many students who choice in from other Denver neighborhoods, including the Greater Park Hill and Northwest school zones.

At East High, 1600 City Park Esplanade, 176 students received the Seal Of Biliteracy this year. East provides instruction in Chinese, French.

Japanese, Lakota and Spanish. World Language courses are offered in levels one through seven, including AP for advanced students and Heritage for native speakers. Nearly 2000 East students are enrolled in World Language study, with almost 1000 of them in levels four through seven.

Students and teachers, get rest this summer so that you can come back in August refreshed and ready to learn and grow!

Water

$2 million dollars to fund 250 acrefeet of storage space if the Foundation raises the rest.

“We have commitments for funding for 172-acre-feet toward the 250 acrefeet goal,” said Devon Buckels, Director of The Water Connection, the policy and water resources arm of The Greenway Foundation. He anticipates having commitments by year’s end, ideally by August, when construction of environmental and recreational improvements to increase storage at the reservoir and adjacent state park are scheduled to begin. Completion is scheduled for August or September 2019.

Depending on snowpack and hydrologic conditions, the Environmental Pool will be filled and available for use—released when needed to increase stream flow—starting in 2019.

“The South Platte River through the Denver metro area is affected by water quality challenges and low-flow conditions frequently throughout the year,” said Buckels. “Increased flows support river ecosystems, reduce pollutant levels, enhance recreational opportunities for users and ultimately supply much needed water for agriculture in neighboring communities.”

In recent years there has been much discussion about recyled water use and availabilty in the Denver area. Have a comment or question about the City’s efforts in regards to water usage and planning? Email editor@denvermetromedia. com.

CONTINUED FROM 8

“Having full reservoirs also helps us get through droughts, and ensures we have supply in emergencies...”

But not all water can be recycled or stored. “The volume of water that can be reused is determined by legal, regulatory and hydrologic conditions that vary significantly from year to year and over time. There are some water rights that we are only able to use once before it has to be returned to the South Platte River for other water users downstream.

Most of the reusable water comes from the West Slope, and efficient reuse of these supplies helps reduce our need for Colorado River water.”

“That said, we reuse as much as we can each day, through exchanges, recycled water and regional partnerships.

Managing our water as efficiently as possible allows us to meet drinking water demands across the metro area and move that water through the South Platte River in a way that provides other benefits, such as environmental, recreational and hydropower production.”

While excess water is passed downstream when reservoirs are full, more storage will be needed to allow water to be released as needed to protect fish habitat.

Chesney said there is a joint effort with the Greenway Foundation underway to create a 500-acre-foot “Environmental Pool” at Chatfield Reservoir for that purpose. Denver Water pledges

11 Golden Triangle

CONTINUED FROM 1

Golden Triangle, were overlooked. How can we not have public trash cans and maintenance support to clean the streets?

People don’t think about how trash cans get there, who pays for them or how they get emptied.”

In order to address the many needs of the area, she and her organization have been working with District 10 City Councilman Wayne New. Horna says he has been very supportive and the GTP has presented him with a list of projects for consideration for the 2018 City budget. They include maintenance support, additional stop signs, enhanced crosswalks and the establishment of wayfinding boundaries.

The final budget proposal will be submitted to the mayor over the summer.

There will be more City Council discussion in the fall and it must be approved

by November.

Councilman New recognizes the importance of the Golden Triangle as Denver’s premier arts and cultural district. He has also seen many of the alley cleanliness and other maintenance issues the area is grappling with, across District 10. New feels it largely stems from not having enough housing for the homeless or even public restrooms for them to use.

One of the line items in the request the GTP proposed to Councilman New, and the city budget staff, is to expand funding for the Denver Day Works Pro-

Dumpsters

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three bags. Larger households can request the biggest cart size, which is 95 gallons and holds seven to eight bags of trash.

Neighborhood Recycling Rates

gram to assist with alley clean-up. The program is designed to provide jobs for people who are experiencing homelessness, while connecting them to supportive services, such as food and shelter. Over 109 people were given work opportunities in the first six months of the program.

While securing funding from the city’s 2018 budget will certainly help ease some of the near-term problems, a longer term solution is needed. Councilman New is also working on creating a General Improvement District (GID) for the area, which would provide money for many of the maintenance expenses.

A GID, which is similar to a BID (Business Improvement District), is a local taxing entity created to pay for maintenance, services and public improvements within a specified area. It will take approximately a year-and-a-half to get a GID in place for the Golden Triangle, according to New. Voters also have to approve it. He anticipates it will not be on the ballot until November 2018. It is an elaborate process to evaluate and describe the needs. Voter outreach is required to communicate the advantages of a GID and garner public support. A percentage of residents have to approve the idea before it even makes it on the ballot.

New says it’s not feasible to wait for approval of a GID, which is why he will be requesting money from the 2018 city budget for the Golden Triangle. “We sure hope the Golden Triangle gets some fund-

SAVE THE DATE Final Friday Art Walk Starting June 30th Denver Design Week July 15th-21st National Night Out August 1st Biennial of the Americas September 12th-16th Denver Startup Week September 25th-29th Denver Arts Week November 4th-12th ing,” he said. “They have some very legitimate needs, but we have to raise money one way or another.”

Architect Dennis Humphries has lived and worked in the Golden Triangle since the 1990s. From 2002-2005, he was President of the GTA and continues to be actively involved. His history with the area and architectural career gives him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities it is facing.

“I believe we have more world-class architecture in our neighborhood than in any other neighborhood in the Western U.S.,” Humphries said. “For such a small

area, we have many significant buildings by outstanding architects. We have a quality of design that is beyond many other places and it’s an opportunity to inspire others.”

Humphries would like to see more city funding and notes the Golden Triangle’s history of proactively working with City officials. High on his list of priorities is any opportunity to make the area a better pedestrian neighborhood, such as enhancing the crosswalks, and finding ways to calm or slow traffic.

“Anytime you have growth, it’s a new chapter with new issues,” he said.

Pittman and her team wanted more time to find the right trucks that would fit in the alleys. Denver currently has three small trucks and has ordered three more to use in these neighborhoods. However, even with more compact trucks, there

These numbers reflect customers who have subscribed to recycling service, not how much waste they actually recycle.

Capitol Hill - 67 percent

Citywide, subscription is 77 percent as of

Cheesman Park – 64 percent

May 2017. Residents are automatically

Cherry Creek – 74 percent

enrolled in recycling service when they

Congress Park – 84 percent Five Points – 66 percent

receive trash carts. Of everything that gets thrown out in Denver, only 18 percent of it ends up in the recycling carts.

Capitol Hill, Cheesman Park and Congress Park will be some of the last neighborhoods to receive the trash carts.

This is largely due to these areas being densely populated with smaller alleys.

will still be some alleys too narrow and residents will need to wheel carts to the street in front of their homes.

Residents will be notified by mail of the delivery of their trash carts. There

A Denver Solid Waste Management truck equiped to handle the city dumpsters. The City is replacing dumpsters with trash carts similar to the recycling cart shown at left. Photo by Sara Hertwig. are also informational community meetings scheduled, including one on July 18 at 6:00p.m. at Teller Elementary

(1150 Garfield St.). For information on the trash cart conversion, visit denvergov.org.

The Denver Waldorf Early Childhood Program is structured to provide a gradual transition from the life of the home to the structure of an elementary school. We consider childhood to be a valid and honorable experience, not a time to be rushed.

Now enrolling 21/2 to 5-year-olds at our 6th & Adams location.

denverwaldorf.org

12

M U S IC People’s Fair kicks off June’s highlights

By Peter Jones If it’s summer, it must be music.

What would Capitol Hill be without the People’s Fair, and where would the People’s Fair be without the music? This annual festival has seen more change than the Fleetwood Mac lineup, but one thing has stayed consistent—an unwavering dedication to local music.

Among this year’s talent: P-Nuckle, Guster, Jeremy Garrett’s Fiddle Science, Kayla Marque, Azucartones and Quincy Avenue Rhythm Band. All are free shows in Civic Center Park, Saturday and Sunday, June 3-4. Visit peoplesfair.com for the full lineup.

The same weekend marks a rare chance to see Pink Floyd founder Roger Waters perform Floyd classics. Waters has gone so far as to name the albums from which he will be culling material, Dark Side of the Moon, Animals and The Wall, among them, not to mention the well of Waters’ political banter, which may not be everyone’s cup of musical experience. Although it would be nice to hear Waters in the subtle environs of the People’s Fair, he’ll be playing the Pepsi Center on Sunday, June 4.

Funk legends don’t have it so plush.

George Clinton plays the Ogden Theater on Sunday, June 18. Variously recording as Parliament and Funkadelic, Clinton revolutionized funk as a danceable mix of soul and guitar rock at a time when musical segregation was outliving its

political counterpart. Clinton’s fusion would go on to influence the likes of Red Hot Chili Peppers and Prince, among others.

For something completely different on the same night, diverse singer-songwriter Mason Jennings plays the Bluebird Theater, bringing a grab bag of eclectic lyrical and musical sensibilities with him.

A few days later, Wednesday, June 21, alternative country’s Shooter Jennings [no relation to Mason] is at Summit Music Hall, 1902 Blake St., a venue that has proven to book just about anything, from punk to the Charlie Daniels Band (interviewed in this column in July 2015). Like his “outlaw” father Waylon, Jennings does country his own way, with shades of Southern and blue-collar rock.

Among his band’s albums: Put the O Back in Country.

The Westword Music Showcase takes place Saturday, June 24, in the Golden Triangle. Headliners include Shakey Graves, the Revivalists and Cut Copy. Local bands are on the bill, too.

The KOOL concert on Thursday, June 29, at the Pepsi Center will focus squarely on the 1970s with a triple “stadium rock” header featuring Styx, REO Speedwagon and Eagles’ outcast Don Felder.

Styx no longer features lead singer Dennis DeYoung, which may defeat the purpose, though REO (or Stationwagon for those who never got on board) still boasts singer, bandleader and songwriter Kevin Cronin. Felder still features himself, a fine guitarist whose instrumental version of “Hotel California” is certain to

Shooter Jennings has been gunning for alternative country since he was knee high to Waylon. He plays Summit Music Hall on June 21. Courtesy photo. be a centerpiece of the opening act. No word on whether he will pull out his only real solo hit, “Heavy Metal,” the title track from the 1981 animated fantasy movie.

Back to REO, for a footnote. Some may not know that “Ridin’ the Storm Out” was written when the band was playing Tulagi in Boulder back in the day: “Ridin’ the storm out. Waiting for the thaw out on a full moon night in the Rocky Mountain winter.”

Per last month’s column, the Denver Botanic Gardens concerts are getting underway this month. The only June show that had not sold out at press time was the eclectic Punch Brothers, who

LIFE FILMS IN REVIEW

By John Showalter All films play at the SIE Film Center.

Afterimage Directed by Waida Andrei Opens Friday, June 2 | 1:38 Afterimage is a grim and gritty portrayal of real-life Polish avant-garde painter and art professor, Władysław Strzemiński (Boguslaw Linda).

Strzemiński struggles to maintain both his humanity and his artistic integrity against the onslaught of State-controlled socialist realism that overtook Polish society post-World War II art world.

Step by step, we see him stripped of everything he’s relied on for his artistic identity. As the plot unfolds, we keep

bring their punchy mix of jazzy folk rock to the outdoor venue on Tuesday, June 13.

Having recently attended a press preview for the annual Underground Music Showcase, here is an early shoutout for the four-day event coming up, July 27-30, at venues largely along Broadway.

Among the nearly 200 confirmed bands: The Burroughs, Colfax Speed Queen, Low Hanging Fruit, Whippoorwill and Units of Disco, among a host of others.

For more information, visit theums.com.

Mark your calendars and enjoy the music.

Question, comment? Contact Peter Jones at pjoneslifemusic@aol.com.

seriously or not. And if not, then why are they saying it?

His life is one of constant struggle to live “the art life,” which he describes as drinking coffee, smoking cigarettes and painting. This is exactly what we see him doing throughout the film. At this point in his life, what we see is a man who seems to have transcended material

want and is able to focus exclusively on his art. What is rather remarkable about his surroundings is that there is almost no hint in his studio of his life as a Hollywood director. Instead, we are shown the primal way he goes about working with paint, the canvas and his hands.

The Transfiguration Directed by Michael O’Shea Opens Friday, June 16 | 1 hour, 37 minutes The Transfiguration is based on a simple premise: What if a real-life vampire was to meet a nice girl who just wants to hang out, kiss, walk on the beach, ride bumper cars and do all the other things new couples do? Would said vampire be able to change, to grow, to become someone or something else?

When we are first introduced to vampire Milo (Eric Ruffin), we see him doing what vampires do, leaving no doubt he’s the real deal. And yet, we can’t help thinking he’s just a person, not someone with supernatural powers. Shunned by the community, bullied by kids his own age and harassed by local gang members, he

Manifesto Directed by Julian Rosenfeldt Opens Friday, June 9 | 1:35 wishing for a happy ending—that he will somehow manage to escape from the State’s clutches. David Lynch: The Art Life Directed by Jon Nguyen, Rick Barnes and Olivia Neergaard-Holm OPENS Friday, June 2 | 1:28 This documentary feature tells the story of famed director David Lynch’s life leading up to his breakout film, Eraserhead. Lynch himself narrates the key moments of his life as we watch him carrying out his daily work of creation in his Hollywood Hills studio.

Manifesto is beautifully shot, but is, nonetheless, a challenging film to watch.

Cate Blanchett stars and happens to appear in various guises in every scene.

What each character she plays says and why they are saying it can be at times confusing. It’s a little hard to know if we’re supposed to take everything said

is friendless until he encounters a nice girl, Sophie (Chloe Levine). Milo offers to carry her bags to the seedy apartment complex where he and his older brother, Lewis (Aaron Clifton Moten) live. We then watch to see how Milo might be transfigured into a normal human being, if that’s even possible.

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13 Calendar

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City Park Jazz: Dotsero Free concert at the pavilion in City Park! Please follow park rules to keep this a family friendly event. Rain or shine event.

A no nonsense sax and guitar driven thrill ride of energy and excitement. As much fun to watch as they are to listen to. | City Park, 1729 Colorado Blvd. cityparkjazz.org

Wed, 06/14 | 6:30p.m.-8:30p.m.

Indigenous Film Series Presented by Indigenous Film & Arts Festival, Denver American Indian Commission and DMNS. October:Message from Mungo-Erosion 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 & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. dmns.org

Tue, 06/27 | 7:30p.m.

A Midsummer Night's Jazz Join the Mile High Freedom Bands for our first annual free swing concert in the park. What's better on a cool summer evening than sitting out in the park with the dogs & family on a blanket watching the sun set over a lake & listening to great tunes! | City Park 1729 Colorado Blvd.

FITNESS

Sun, 07/02 | 6:00p.m.-8:00p.m.

City Park Jazz: Purnell Steen and LeJazz Machine Free concert at the pavilion in City Park! Please follow park rules to keep this a family friendly event. Rain or shine event.

Characterized by red-hot swing and joie de vivre Purnell Steen has helped keep the distinct Five Points jazz sound alive. | City Park, 1729 Colorado Blvd. cityparkjazz.org

FILM Sat, 06/10 | 2:00p.m.

Trails in Motion Film Festival The Ledlenser Trails In Motion Film Festival is an annual international film tour that brings a collection of the finest trail and ultra running films to passionate audiences around the world.

Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave. raceroster.com/events/2017/12260/trails-in-motion Sun, 06/11 | 1:30p.m.

Personal is Political Film Series: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington Films about 'the personal is political.' Free for all, complimentary popcorn, trivia, and prizes. . | Denver Public Library: Central branch 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway Mondays, 06/12-07/03 | 7:30p.m.-9:30p.m.

Music and Film Trivia Night Join Twist & Shout and the Sie Film Center for pop culture questions, boozy trivia, prizes galore and many other goofy antics. Teams compete to answer questions for prizes and the glory of declaring superior knowledge. Located in Henderson's Lounge. | 720-381-0813 Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave.

Daily, 06/08-07/05 | 9:00a.m.-5:00p.m.

Cherry Creek Gallery Retirement Event Denver’s premier source for vintage Audubon prints and Western Americana will be closing its doors this summer after two decades of business. Tam O’Neill Fine Arts will offer a “retirement sale”, details are available on their website. | 303 -355-7711 Tam O'Neill Fine Arts, 311 Detroit St. tamoneillfinearts.com Daily, 06/08-06/10 Divine Color By leveraging the inherent power of color - it's vibration and energy - Lewis blends acrylics with mixed media to capture the essence of an emotion, person, place or object. Meet the artist April 30 11:30 am - 12:30 pm and May 19 5:30 pm - 8 pm. | The Sturgeon Gallery @ Central Presbyterian Church, 1660 Sherman St. stacylewisart.com

Wednesdays, 06/07-07/05 | 5:30a.m.-6:15a.m.

Civic Center Moves- Fitness Tribe w/ the November Project Also from 6:15am-7:00am | Civic Center Park Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave. civiccenterconservancy.org Thursdays, 06/08-06/29 | 6:00p.m.-7:00p.m.

Civic Center Moves- Power Vinyasa Yoga w/ the River Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave. civiccenterconservancy.org

Daily, 06/10-07/05 | 5:00p.m.-8:00p.m.

CPAC’s Annual Members’ Show The exhibition is a survey of new work made by CPAC members and is intended to highlight the creative talents of CPAC’s core constituency. Opening reception on Saturday, June 10 from 5-8pm and closing reception on Saturday, July 29 from 5-8pm. | 303.837.1341 Colorado Photographic Arts Center, 1070 Bannock St. cpacphoto.org/annual-members-show

Thursdays, 06/08-06/29 | 11:00a.m.-12:00p.m.

Civic Center Moves- Yoga Cross w/ The River & Fitness in the City Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave. civiccenterconservancy.org Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 10:30a.m.

Capoeira Angola Introductory Class Take an introductory class in this African-Brazilian 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

Fri, 06/23 | 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m.

HUMAN | NATURE The wonders of natural environments are often known to spark creativity in the human mind. Drawing inspiration from nature, while freeing themselves from representational qualities, these 7 artists collectively evoke natural abstractions. | 303-355-8955 Walker Fine Art, 300 W. 11th Ave. #A walkerfineart.com

Mondays, 06/12-07/03 | 6:00p.m.-7:00p.m.

Civic Center Moves- Yoga w/ Fold Yoga Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave. civiccenterconservancy.org Tuesdays, 06/13-07/04 | 12:15p.m.-1:00p.m.

Civic Center Moves- Full Body Conditioning w/ Pearl Street Fitness Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave. civiccenterconservancy.org

Fri, 06/30 | 6:00p.m.-10:00p.m.

Untitled Final Fridays Get an offbeat art fix, pick up a creative skill, convene with local movers and makers. Top it off with a cash bar, munchies, and a dose of the unexpected. Final Fridays, 6–10 pm, Untitled is included in regular museum admission. | 720-865-5000 Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway untitled.denverartmuseum.org

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Below are the upcoming SCFD free days we thought most relevant for our readers: Clyfford Still Museum - Fridays, June 2, 9, 16, 23 from 5:00p.m.8:00p.m., June 30, 10:00a.m.-8:00p.m. 1250 Bannock St. Denver Art Museum - Saturday June 3 & July 1, 10a.m.-5p.m.

100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway Denver Museum of Nature & Science - Sunday June 4, 9a.m.5p.m.2001 Colorado Blvd.

Four Mile Historic Park - Friday, June 9, 12:00p.m.-4:00p.m.

715 S. Forest St. Mizel Museum - Friday June 9, 9a.m.-4p.m. 400 S. Kearney St. Cafe Cultura: Spoken Word Workshop - Friday, June 16, 6:00p.m.-7:30p.m.

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On March 15, FANS for Cheesman Park sent an email to its subscribers sharing that on March 13 the Denver Office of Special Events (DOSE) had notified them and other parties it had permitted a two-day marijuana-focused festival in Cheesman Park called Denver 420 Fest. At the time, event organizers had on their site (denver420fest.com) information indicating the festival would feature music, food trucks and booths selling marijuana paraphernalia.

In the days following the announcement and FANS for Cheesman Park’s email, there was considerable community outcry over the proposed event, so much so that event organizers had retracted their application on March 16.

Within a month of the conversation around proposed Denver 420 Fest, there was another high-profile incident in a Denver park. On the morning of April 21, the morning after the Annual Denver 4/20 Rally, an event held in

Denver’s Civic Center Park, Denver residents woke to a sea of trash left untended. Just how so much trash was left overnight is up for debate, but as reported by The Denver Post, park security camera video stills showed significant amounts of trash remaining as late as 10p.m. the night of April 20. Reports forwarded by event organizer Miguel Lopez indicated there were problems with the cleanup effort, including the presence of individuals opening and rummaging through trash bags and a man walking the park with a knife and threatening cleanup crews.

Despite these accounts, on May 19, in a letter addressed to Lopez and a Robert J. Corry, Jr. of law firm Corry & Associates, Denver’s Parks and Recreation Department wrote it is “imposing a monetary penalty in the amount of $11,965, an additional $190 in damages, banning the event holder from being granted any event permit for three years, and rescinding their Priority Event status.” Lopez and associated parties have 15 days to appeal, and the matter is thus not yet resolved.

The fallout from this one festival marks an allegedly extreme case of negligence on the part of an organizer.

Stepping away from this one event, though, it is clear the City’s parks are highly utilized for events organized by diverse public, for-profit and nonprofit parties. Fortunately, says Rust, the City now has a tool by which to ensure those parties respect the city’s parks and the communities which live around them: a new public event policy finalized Oct. 25, 2016.

“The regulations were put into place in order to help Parks and Recreation gear events in the right direction, make sure they are events that are suitable in parks within particular communities and also have a structure to know what to do if things don’t go well.”

Rust applauds Parks and Recreation for the development of the policy and says the public input process was exceptionally well orchestrated. The rules went into effect late last year, but prior to that time and across town, the city and an organizer were in the process of negotiating another event.

LIFE BOOKS: FORGOTTEN LION STILL HAS BITE

By Jason McKinney The Mountain Lion by Jeanne Stafford New York Review Books Classics 248 pages | $9.59 2017 marks the 70th anniversary of Jean Stafford’s The Mountain Lion, a novel mostly excluded from the annals of American Western literature. Stafford, who won the Pulitzer Prize in 1970 for her Collected Stories, has also not remained in the reading public’s memory.

Born in 1915 in California but resettling to Colorado in her childhood, she went on to receive a B.A. and M.A. from CU-Boulder. Although Stafford published three novels and multiple short stories, The Mountain Lion remains her bestknown achievement.

Set at the beginning of the 1920s, The Mountain Lion is ostensibly a coming of age novel. However, it’s not necessarily for younger readers, as it is a strange, harsh and unforgiving tale of two young siblings, Molly and Ralph

next session starts

June 26

Fawcett, who spend their childhood years divided between two locales—the rural outskirts of Los Angeles during the school year and their uncle’s Colorado ranch in the summer. From the outset, darkness clouds the narrative when the children’s grandfather dies right on the heels of his arrival for his annual visit.

This brutal reality is filled with language that is certainly not politically correct these days, and there are also details of everyday life that are imbued with odd touches of almost macabre, troubling elements lingering just beneath the surface. As an example, a simple walk home from school is anything but for Stafford’s characters: “On this last stretch, Molly always thought for some reason of Redondo

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South Denver: a neighborhood in transition and an event of national focus Ronnie Crawford is a man you have to meet to believe. In his seventies, he has the energy of a man twenty or more years younger, and his house bears testament. Located in the Overland neighborhood, his house is of early-20th-century construction and was lovingly restored

by Crawford and friends. The house features a lawn thick with irises, poppies, tulips and numerous other flower varieties. Crawford is known to buy used vases from local thrift shops in large quantities so he might make gifts of his flowers to friends and acquaintances.

Crawford, who is vice president of Overland Park Neighborhood Association (OPNA), has lived in his house for 17 years. In that time he’s seen significant neighborhood change. When he first moved in, the neighborhood was defined by its working-class heritage.

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Beach... The thought of the beach ... sometimes made her whimper, because she always remembered a feeling of queer and somehow pleasant horror when once a gull had winked at her and she had seen that his lower eyelid moved and not the upper one.”

Stafford reputedly based her characters on herself and her brother, Dick, who died in middle life in an ambulance accident in France. Her elegiac tone in depicting childhood makes more sense in this context. The novel reaches its apotheosis when the two young adults are sent to their Uncle Claude’s ranch for an entire year after their mother decides to take their two older sisters on “The Grand Tour” of Europe.

Stafford goes so far as to indicate the exact moment when their childhood ends. Ralph and Molly are traveling via train from Denver to the ranch when they approach the longest tunnel of their journey. “Ralph’s childhood and his sister’s expired at that moment of the train’s entrance into the surcharged valley. It was a paradox, for now they should be going into a tunnel with no end, now that they had heard the devil speak.”

With her touches of realism and almost existential outlook, Stafford’s novel reminded me of Albert Camus’ The Stranger, although the bleak, rugged outlook and setting are more reminiscent of Cormac McCarthy. This world that Molly and Ralph live in is unforgiving, but worst of all, it’s all the more so when you don’t have a sympathetic soul to cling to, as the children’s close relationship becomes increasingly fractured. The loneliness that pervades The Mountain Lion is almost tangible at times and teaches a tough lesson that we sometimes forget almost threequarters of a century later: childhood is not always the dreamscape Disney movies portray. There’s a harsh reality that lurks for children and sometimes, heartbreakingly, they come of age all too soon.

15

CONCERT HIGHLIGHTS

By Jason McKinney

FEATURED GALLERY

By Jason McKinney

The Bluebird Theater Presents:

Kasey Chambers Tuesday, June 13 I 8:00p.m.

3317 E. Colfax Ave. | bluebirdtheater.net | $30 The Australian singer-songwriter will be in Denver in support of her 11th album, Dragonfly. The double record, released in January, features guest spots from Keith Urban, Ed Sheeran and Paul Kelly, among others. The release captures two different sessions, one on each half of the album, and illustrates the vast amount of work that Chambers put into the release. Although Chambers is a star in her native country (she has won 11 ARIA awards—Australia’s Grammy equivalent), she has had success in the U.S. as well. According to The Huffington Post, she is considered to be in the same songwriting class as Gillian Welch, Patty Griffin and Lucinda Williams.

Dazzle at Baur’s Presents:

The Ken Walker Sextet Friday, June 23 | 7:00p.m.

1512 Curtis St. | dazzlejazz.com | $8-12

Orbit

Community building, empathy and nurturing can seem to be in short supply these days. Angela Craven’s abstract expressionist work might be an antidote.

Her vibrant, colorful paintings are about community, strength and connection.

Craven’s recent work strives to present the stories of those affected by grief and loss through infertility, miscarriage or infant loss. Her intention is “to offer individuals or couples, who may otherwise struggle privately, an opportunity for shared understanding and expression.”

Craven’s work imparts a sense of melancholy tinged with a small amount of hope.

At times, these paintings could almost be said to be exuberant, if you weren’t aware of the artist’s true intentions. The frequent black drips streaking her canvases are reminiscent of graffiti, and specifically evoke art from the streets of New York City in the 1970s.

TAXI, the work-live community in RiNo, is launching the TAXI art rotation series at Black Black Coffee (3459 Ringsby Ct.) this summer in partnership with Zeppelin Development and GRACe studios. Craven is the first artist slated to exhibit, and her work can be viewed May 18-July 13. For more information, visit rinoartdistrict.org or blackblackcoffee.com.

Ken Walker is a long-time fixture of the Denver jazz scene; he was the house bassist at the legendary El Chapultepec from 1987-1998, and he is considered to be the Rocky Mountain’s first-call jazz bassist. Walker has played with Nat Adderley, Clark Terry, Herb Ellis, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, along with many, many others. He has also performed at the Telluride, the Jazz Aspen Snowmass and other festivals, and he is currently on the faculty at the DU-Lamont School of Music where he teaches bass and coaches the Trad, Hard Bop and Latin Combos.

He also conducts his own studio there. He and his sextet are frequent guests at Dazzle, but this will be the first time they play at the newly-minted Dazzle at Baur’s.

To see more of Craven’s work, visit angelacravenart.com.

Cervantes Masterpiece Presents:

Mystikal/Juvenile with special guests Saturday, June 24 | 8:00p.m.

2635 Welton St. | cervantesmasterpiece.com | $20 The ‘90s have made a big comeback recently with fashion, television (Hello X-Files!) and now, music.

Mystikal and Juvenile will co-headline Summer Solstice Party 2017 with special guests Jubee, Gracie Bassie and others that are to be announced.

Mystikal was huge with “Shake Ya Ass” and “Danger” which were both released in 2000 but still feel like more a part of the Clinton era than the Bush one. Juvenile became popular in 1998 with his single “Back That Azz Up” followed by “Slow Motion” in 2003. This show is free for all medical marijuana card holders, but you do have to RSVP through Cervantes’ website and provide a valid card on the night of the event.

Belly Fire (365 Days of Art - Day 26)

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16

CURMUDGEON Bicycle, bicycle, bicycle

By D. Todd Clough “Bicycle bicycle, bicycle. I want to ride my bicycle bicycle, bicycle, I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride my bike, I want to ride my bicycle, I want to ride it where I like!” squealed Freddy Mercury and Queen in 1981. You remember Queen; the early ‘80s hit-

likes to pedal. President John F. Kennedy said, “Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride.” H. G. Wells once reflected, “Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race.” A friend of mine has this quote above his desk: “Studies have shown that riding a bicycle everyday makes you more awesome than the general population.” I think the people who like the Queen song also fully believe in this quote.

There are some who are not gaga over cyclists. 19th-century author, Louis Baudry de Saunier, said “Cycling has encountered more enemies than any other form of exercise.” I find it fas-

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makers famous for “Bohemian Rhapsody”? And, of course, don’t forget the song that is played ad nauseam after a team is crowned as the victor—“We are The Champions.”

I think this bicycle tune is the theme song of many of our Capitol Hill cyclists, because they ride any damn where they like. On sidewalks (which is illegal, by the way) and “spawning” is another favorite method by many. “Spawning” is riding against the flow of traffic, which is annoying and dangerous.

I like bicycles and I try to ride everyday. It’s a nice way to get around our ever-growing city and an excellent way to avoid the increasing parking challenges we face. Plus, it is a good way to exercise that is not too harsh on your body.

Clearly, I am not the only one who

cinating that even way back in the time of Louis, cyclists pissed people off!

A recent Google search led me to hundreds of articles of why people hate bicyclists. Note that these articles don’t say they dislike cyclists; they hate them and think cyclists suck as human beings. I couldn’t find one article about anyone hating badminton players—just saying.

I don’t have enough space to cover all the of complaints and venom that was spewed on Google, but here are a few of the main concerns: the fact that many two-wheeling enthusiasts run red lights, hog the road when they don’t need to, don’t obey the rules of the road, ride without lights at night, ride without a helmet and, somehow, they exude the appearance of arrogance that is quite offensive to the writers that I encountered.

17 A month or so ago, I was fascinated to read an article in the Denver Post by Danika Worthington, where she hypothesized, “Despite what you may think, bicyclists aren’t rude—they’re just scofflaws.” Don’t worry, I looked it up for you—scofflaw: “a contemptuous law violator, particularly of laws that are difficult to enforce.”

She went on to explain that a recent study published by the Journal of Transportation and Land Use found that bicyclists who break the rules of the road don’t do so because they are reckless (or self absorbed a-holes—I

HISTORY PrideFest celebrates 41 years: ¡Viva La Vida!

By Becca Dierschow The month of June kicks off a summer of annual festivals in Denver.

The People’s Fair, the Chalk Art Festival, and Denver PrideFest all encourage Coloradans to get outside and enjoy the warm days and cool nights. While many of these festivals have a long history in Denver, PrideFest is a popular event that has its roots in the early push for gay rights across the nation.

The history of Denver’s queer community dates back to the city’s founding days. In 1889, newspapers reported the elopement of Clara Dietrich and Ora Chatfield with breathless prose—a story so unusual that it reached as far as Brisbane, Australia. However, Denver’s gay community remained largely underground until well into the 20th century.

It wasn’t until 1939 that Denver’s first gay bar, The Pit, opened on 17th Street.

Yet, as the name suggests, the community remained largely underground until well into the 1960s. Local activist Gerald Gerash described gay Denverites “liv[ing] underground—in a gay world, entirely separate from the straight world... We preferred that—for our own survival.”

Amidst a growing national movement agitating for gay rights—sparked in part by the Stonewall Riots of June 28th, 1969—Denver faced a changing political and social landscape. In 1971, Colorado decriminalized sodomy while simultaneously instituting a public decency law that prohibited public acts of affection between same-sex couples.

In February 1973, 24 men were arrested by Denver Police in Civic Center Park as part of an on-going sting operation targeting gay men. This incident galvanized Denver’s nascent gay rights community, who organized to protest the arrests. In October 1973, City Council met to review all of Denver’s criminal laws. Over 250 members of the queer community attended the meeting, protesting the laws that made homosexuality a crime. This highly visible protest was a risk—people could lose their jobs, their homes and their families. But the gamble paid off and City Council repealed four anti-gay policies. Simultaneously, The Gay Coalition of Denver filed a lawsuit against the police for their ongoing harassment of the queer community. In 1974, a judge ordered Denver Police to halt their arrests of gays and lesbians who showed public affection towards their partners. These two victories solidified Denver’s reputation at the forefront of the national fight for gay rights.

added this part) but 71 percent of the 18,000 cyclists who responded to the survey said that they break laws for their own safety!

So, I am to believe that the jackass I saw yesterday on a black single-gear who weaved across three lanes of traffic on Eighth Avenue, barely avoiding being crushed four times, and then turning abruptly onto Lincoln—going the wrong direction—who then popped over the curb and barely missed a strolling mom, her child and their doggie, did so for his own safety? Sorry, I don’t buy it. And, by the way, he was

The Gay Coalition of Denver used a strategy of “complete openness” to advance their agenda, an agenda which held gay rights in the public eye while humanizing the cause. To that end, the Coalition held a “gay-in” at Cheesman Park in 1974 with a turnout of 50 people.

1975 saw 250 people at the same event, which included an unsanctioned march from Cheesman Park to the Capitol building. Finally, in 1976, organizers from the Tobie Foundation secured a permit for a parade on June 25th.

The Tobie Foundation was the Denver drag community’s professional organization, headed at the time by drag performer Christie Layne. In later interviews, Layne explained that the Tobie Foundation wanted Denver to join with cities from around the country to celebrate their pride. However, Denver’s first official Pride Parade was almost canceled. When Layne originally applied for the permit, she wrote that it was a march for civil rights. It soon came out that the event was, in fact, a march for gay rights.

The City Manager did not approve and told Layne that the City wouldn’t issue a permit to her organization. It was only through local press coverage and behindthe-scenes agitation that the march was allowed to move forward, provided, of course, that Layne “steer[ed] clear of making any more bold statements” to the press.

In the weeks before the inaugural Gay Pride Week, the editor of Out Front called on Colorado’s queer community to come out in force for the main event to show to the world the community was ready to demand equal rights for all, regardless of orientation. The Pride Parade served as both a celebration of gay pride but also a challenge to those who would discriminate against the community. From day one, Pride in Denver has balanced flamboyance and defiance.

The first official Pride Parade instituted many traditions that remain hallmarks of the parade today. A police

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not wearing a helmet.

Just in case the punk on the black bike is reading the column, let me remind you that the average car weighs 4,000 pounds, the average human weighs 177 pounds, the average speed a car is traveling in the city is 35 miles per hour and the average speed a bike is traveling in the city is nine miles per hour. Do the math, and then maybe you can remove your noggin from your derrière.

Speaking of dumb-asses, I rode my bike by Civic Center Park the day after the 420 Pot Fest Protest and the

amount of trash spewed around the park was embarrassing and disgusting! Can someone explain to me why there is still a 420 gathering? In case you don’t read the paper or watch the news, reefer is legal here in our former cow town.

But, I digress—back to bike riding in Big D. I am thinking that the City Council was smoking some of our legal weed when they voted on the South Broadway bike lane. This strategy makes about as much sense as paid parking at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center.

L-R, James Schweigert Leland Derryberry, and Jefferey Adams, all with "Harmony A Colorado Chorale" carry a giant Gay Pride flag down Colfax Avenue and past the State Capitol during the 30th annual PrideFest Parade and rally in Denver Sunday June 26, 2005. Photo courtesy Denver Public Library, RMN Archives; Dennis Schroeder photographer. motorcade escorted participants along the parade route, while the Free Spirit Motorcycle Club collected donations for the event. Drag shows were held throughout the week to benefit groups like the Gay Community Services Center and the Colorado Springs Gay Relief Fund. The tone of the event shifted over the years, becoming more militant through the late 1970s, melancholy during the AIDS crisis and gradually more jovial through the 2000s. 2016’s festival drew over 380,000 people, gathering in response to the horrific shooting two weeks earlier at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando. This time, the atmosphere was one of mourning, defiance, and celebration. Through the years, PrideFest has remained a cultural touchstone for a community too often consigned to the closet.

For decades, Denver’s gay culture existed in intangible spaces—tucked away in the corners of the city, out of

sight. Little remains of the city’s earliest gay spaces, but PrideFest remains and grows stronger every year as a reminder of the triumphs and struggles of the community. This year, Denver PrideFest will be held June 17 and 18. The theme is ¡Viva La Vida!—Live Your Life! The two-day festival is free to attend and the parade will be on Sunday, June 18, starting at 9:30a.m. in Cheesman Park.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the GLBT Community Center of Colorado.

A Denver native, Becca Dierschow is the Preservation and Research Coordinator at Historic Denver. She has a degree in history from Lewis & Clark College and a Masters in Building Archaeology from the University of York. If you’d like to learn more about the history of Denver’s PrideFest, be sure to check out Aaron Marcus’s fantastic article in the May/June 2011 issue of Colorado Heritage magazine, available online at glbtcolorado.org.

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18 Calendar

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Fri, 06/30 Final Fridays @ Golden Triangle Creative District The Golden Triangle Creative District is thrilled to announce a new event series: Final Friday Art Walk, which will give visitors, employees and residents an after-hours opportunity to explore the many creative spaces in the Triangle. | Golden Triangle Creative District

LifeRing Secular Recovery Meeting A network of people who support one another in living free of alcohol and other non-medically indicated addictive drugs. | 303-875-5088 First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St. liferingcolorado.org

KIDSTUFF

Weekdays, 06/07-07/05 | 3:00p.m.-6:00p.m.

Teen Open Lab Interested in recording music or editing videos? Want to use the 3D printer or learn about Arduino? Want to learn how to make a video games? Ready to sew or paint a masterpiece?

Just want to hang out and play games? Drop-in, for teens 12-19, free. | 720-865-1706 ideaLAB in Community Technology Center of DPL Central library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway teens.denverlibrary.org Tuesdays & Saturdays, 06/10-07/04 | 10:30a.m.

Young Children’s Storytime Young children are invited for a half hour of stories and fun, with a different topic each week. Free. | 303-322-1965, ext.

2731 Tattered Cover, 2526 E. Colfax Ave. tatteredcover.com Tuesdays, 06/13-07/04 | 10:30a.m.-11:00a.m.

Toddler Storytime In the Berger Children's Pavilion, Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their parents or caregivers. Craft activity immediately follows the program. Free. | 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Sat, 06/17 | 9:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Garden Art Family Workshop: Calder Inspired Planters This hands-on workshop allows families to experience art in an inspiring and active way. Each child makes a planter inspired by the exhibition. Classes are designed for families with children ages 5-10. | Denver Botanic Gardens Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. botanicgardens.org

OUTREACH Wednesdays, 06/07-07/05 | 6:00p.m.

Whether OLD or NEW We can fix it! or

Mondays, 06/12 & 06/26 | 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m.

Hunger Free Colorado Drop-In Assistance Hunger Free Colorado representatives can help you apply for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) food stamps and connect with other food resources. | 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. denverlibrary.org Mondays, 06/12-07/03 | 8:00a.m.-7:00p.m.

Grant Street Reach Providing meals at no cost to its clients and it is sustained by committed and compassionate volunteers. | 303-839-1432 St. Paul Lutheran and Roman Catholic Community of Faith, 1600 Grant St. grantstreetreach.org

Wednesdays, 06/07-07/05 | 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. Free. | 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Wednesdays, 06/07-07/05 | 4:00p.m.-5:00p.m.

Girls Who Code An afterschool program for girls in middle and high school to learn computer science in a collaborative, engaging and intensive manner, working with women who work in technology fields. Learn Python, build websites, create games and more, free. | 720-865-1706 ideaLAB in Community Technology Center of DPL Central library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway

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Don't miss out on these great 4th of July events!

Monday, 07/03 | 8:00p.m.

Independence Eve

Join us in Civic Center Park for the seventhannual free community celebration featuring a concert, light show and fireworks!

Monday & Tuesday, 07/03-07/04 | 4:00p.m.

Stars & Stripes Express Fest

All-aboard Union Station's third annual Stars & Stripes Fest! For the first time ever, we are extending the party to two days! Come and enjoy live music and Colorado Brews.

Tuesday, 07/04 | 1:30p.m.

Park Hill 4th of July Parade

Stretching from Dexter St. to Krameria St., this year's parade will include more than 50 groups, including floats, marching bands, costumed characters, classic cars and more!

Thursdays, 06/08-06/29 | 12:00p.m.

Home for the Heart AL-ANON Al-Anon's Purpose is to help friends and families of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of a relative or friend. In lower level. | Trinity United Methodist Church Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway al-anon-co.org Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 6:45p.m.

Nar-Anon A twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts to help themselves cope. | First Unitarian Church First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St. nar-anon.org Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 12:30p.m.

Nicotine Anonymous A fellowship of men and women helping each other to live our lives free of nicotine. | Our Savior’s Lutheran Church Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 915 E. 9th Ave.

Mondays, 06/12-07/03 | 7:00p.m.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Through shared experience and mutual support, join a meeting to help each other to recover from the disease of food addiction. | 303-775-8062 Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway foodaddicts.org Tuesdays, 06/13-07/04 | 6:30p.m.-8:00p.m.

Moderation Management Weekly meetings for problem (vs. chronic) drinkers who want to reduce their intake of alcohol. | First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St. moderation.org Tue, 06/13 | 1:00p.m.

Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group Provides a safe, secure environment for all patients with any type of pulmonary fibrosis and their family members, care providers and significant others. | 303-398-1912 National Jewish Health, 1400 Jackson St. nationaljewish.org Tuesdays, 06/13-07/04 | 8:00p.m.

Joy AL-ANON Al-Anon's Purpose is to help friends and families of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with the problem drinking of a relative or friend. In the Roberts Building, Room 103. | Saint John's Cathedral, 1350 Washington St. al-anon-co.org Thu, 06/15 | 7:00p.m.-9:00p.m.

Capitol Hill United Neighbors Board Meeting Open to all members of Capitol Hill United Neighbors. Please consider attending a meeting to learn what's happening in you neighborhood and find out how you can be more engaged. | Tears McFarlane House (CHUN) 1290 N. Williams St., # 101 Mon, 06/26 | 7:00p.m.-9:00p.m.

Historic Preservation Committee Meeting This Historic Preservation Committee is responsible for numerous historic districts as well as individually designated homes and buildings. Join us each month to learn what is happening in your neighborhood and to add to your voice. | 303-830-1651 Castle Marne, 1572 Race St.

RELIGION Saturdays, 06/10-07/01 | 10:00a.m.

Saturday Messianic Shabbat 303-322-5733

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600 East Sixth Avenue at Pearl St. | Denver, CO 80203 303-722-9459 | Fax 303-733-1905 Mon - Sat 8am - 10pm | Sun noon - 6pm

19 Church in the City-Beth Abraham, 1580 Gaylord St. churchinthecity.org Sat, 06/10 | 9:00a.m.

Shabbat Services 303-388-4239 Temple Micah, 5209 Montview Blvd. micahdenver.org Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 9:30a.m.

Presbyterian Services Followed by fellowship at 10:30a.m. and education for all ages at 11:00a.m. | 303-333-9366 Capitol Heights Presbyterian Church, 1100 Fillmore St. capitolheightspresbyterian.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 9:00a.m.

Acts 29 Christian Service L2 Church, 1477 Columbine St. L2today.com

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Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 9:30a.m.

Lutheran Service Jazz service the last Sunday of each month. | 303-831-7023 Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 915 E. 9th Ave. oslchurchdenver.org Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 10:00a.m.

Orthodox Mass 303-698-2433 Saint Augustine Orthodox Church, 55 W. 3rd Ave. staugustinedenver.org Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 7:45a.m.

Anglican Services 303-831-7115 Saint John's Cathedral, 1350 Washington St. sjcathedral.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 8:30a.m.

Contemporary Services 10:45 Service offered as well. | 303-322-5733 Church in the City-Beth Abraham, 1580 Gaylord St. churchinthecity.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 7:45a.m.

Episcopal Service 303-388-6469 St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, 1280 Vine St. stbdenver.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 8:30a.m.

Interdenominational Service 303-800-8269 Denver United Church, 660 S. Broadway denverunited.com

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 9:00a.m.

Catholic Mass 303-534-4014 St. Elizabeth of Hungary Catholic Parish, 1060 St. Francis Way stelizabethdenver.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 5:00p.m.

Catholic Mass for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender A social follows Mass on most Sundays. | 720-515-4528 Dignity Denver, 1100 Fillmore St. dignitydenver.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 7:30a.m.

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, 06/11-07/02 | 10:00a.m.

Christian Science Service 303-839-1505 First Church of Christ, Scientist, 1415 Logan St. christiansciencecolorado.org

Journalism matters.

Proud to be the press.

Tuesday, 06/27 | 5:00p.m.- 6:00p.m.

Active Minds: TuskegeeAirmen Join Active Minds as we explore a chapter of the issue of race in the military from World War II: The Tuskegee Airmen. This group of African American pilots were the first black military aviators in the U.S. Armed Forces. Free, RSVP required. | 303-322-7727 Tattered Cover. 2526 E. Colfax Ave.

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 10:00a.m.

Presbyterian Services 720-316-1279 St. Patrick Presbyterian Church Denver, 1570 Clarkson St. saintpatrickdenver.org Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 8:00a.m.

Lutheran Services Also, Catholic Mass on Saturdays at 5p.m. | 303-839-1432 St. Paul Lutheran and Roman Catholic Community of Faith, 1600 Grant St.

News matters.

SENIORS Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 06/07-07/05 | 10:00a.m.-10:45a.m.

FREE Senior Strength & Balance Class Hosted free of charge by Brookdale Parkplace Senior Independent Living community - enriching the lives of those we serve with compassion, respect, excellence and integrity. | 720-485-4124 Brookdale Parkplace, 111 Emerson St. live2bhealthy.com

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 8:30a.m.

Catholic Mass Also at 10:30a.m., 12:30p.m. and 6:30p.m. | 303-831-7010 Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, 1535 Logan St. denvercathedral.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 10:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Baptist Service 303-861-2501 First Baptist Church of Denver, 1373 Grant St. fbcdenver.org

Sundays, 06/11-07/02 | 11:00a.m.

Catholic Mass Catholic Mass with Children's education and nursery available. | 303-333-9366 Ten Thirty Catholic Community, 1100 Fillmore St. 1030catholic.org

STAGE Thursday-Sunday, 06/09-06/16 The Luckiest People The Luckiest People touchingly explores how we navigate the Sahara of Middle Age - those middle age decades sandwiched squarely between obligations to parents, children and spouses. | 303-623-0524 Curious Theatre Company, 1080 Acoma St. curioustheatre.org Sundays, 06/11 & 06/25 | 8:00p.m.-10:00p.m.

Philosophy Philosophy is a free comedy show every 2nd and 4th Sunday at the Capitol Hill Tavern featuring local talent and hosted by Emily Zeek. | 303-483-8160 Capitol Hill Tavern, 1225 Logan St. emilyzeek.com Mondays, 06/12-07/03 | 10:00p.m.

Comedy with Roger 303-320-9200 Lion's Lair, 2022 E. Colfax Ave.

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20

NEIGHBORHOOD In each edition LIFE dedicates editorial space to area Registered Neighborhood Organizations with timely news to share.

LIFE believes in community and community building and hopes readers find this information relevant and important. Want to see your organization featured here? Email editor@denvermetromedia.com. _________________________________________

Welcome to Neighborhood Q&A! Designed for Quidnuncs and Adventurers, puzzled by things connected with neighborhoods, that is. We probably won’t answer the meaning of life, or how the radio actually works, or why your cat is barking though.

A question we recently heard: What’s with these new trash containers you see in some parks, the fancy trash bins with a solar panel on top? Is that a night-light?

Does it make enough heat to burn up the trash?

Answer: Neither. These are called by the catchy name Big-Belly. The solar panel produces enough energy to send to the Denver Parks and Recreation (DPR) office a read-out showing how full the container is, which alerts DPR to come empty it when it is getting full. This saves DPR time and effort driving around actually looking at/into containers (eww...).

We hear there is an improved model being considered by DPR. How can Big-Belly be improved-upon? Bigger belly? Night-

light? More answers when we have them.

A sign-reader asks: Why are there “Coyote Warning!” signs in some parts of town? Are there really any coyotes around?

Answer: Yes. There really are. Hang onto small doggies, kitties, bunnies, etc. because they are snatchable prey for carousing coyotes. Don’t leave your garbage out to become a free buffet either.

Denver is taking up more and more coyote-land, so they forage by your garage, lurk in your lilacs, maybe feel like they have it coming to them. It’s springtime and off-spring time for coyotes, so they’re especially protective. If you see a coyote, do not approach! Do yell, throw rocks, sticks, bang pans, blow a whistle, look BIG, but don’t run, back away slowwwwly.

Visit cpw.state.co.us for more info—and read those signs.

A good question: Good grief, is there any person in the city you can actually call up and find out what office to call for whatever it is you want to find out about!

We know there’s 311, but sometimes…

Answer: Yes. Chris Martinez, Senior Adviser at the Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships! He is the go-to guy for all sorts of city information, but a lot of people have never heard about this! He told us there is also a 211 hotline for city research work! You can reach him at chris.martinez@denvergov.org, or 720-913-8497 or 720-251-6525 (cell).

Any questions? Contact Diana Helper: chapinhelper@gmail.com. _________________________________________

Art Students League hosts Summer Art Market On Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11 the Art Students League of Denver

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(ASLD) will host the 25th annual Summer Art Market featuring 260 visual artist booths, artist demonstrations, kidART programming, live music and food and beverage vendors.

The arts festival, held between East First and East Fourth Avenues and between Logan and Sherman Streets, features a range of media, including ceramics, fiber arts, mixed media/book art, painting, drawing, photography, printmaking and sculpture. Admission to the event is free.

“We are thrilled to feature top-quality

For more information about Summer Art Market, visit asld.org. _________________________________________

Cherry Creek Arts Festival features increased local participation The Cherry Creek Arts Festival is coming to Cherry Creek North July 1-3.

Thousands of visitors will interact with 255 visual artists, performing artists, sponsors and other cultural organizations.

More than 2,100 artists apply annu-

A Cherry Creek Arts Festival attendee checks out work by artist Chris Vance.

Photo by Walter Penny. artwork by our faculty and members set among the leafy streets of central Denver for the 25th year,” said Rachel Basye, ASLD executive director. “The event provides an opportunity for us to highlight the work of our professional artists and students while engaging the community in a free arts and culture experience.”

The ASLD professional faculty will offer artist demonstrations on both days in a range of media, including book arts and mixed media, oil painting and hand-building ceramics. There will be kidART programming, sponsored by Delta Dental of Colorado, taking place 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m. Saturday and Sunday and giving children an opportunity to engage with free art projects such as Tooth Fairy Magic, Smiling Cheshire Cat and Wild Smile.

Mudra Dance, MoJo Mama Blues, Kicked to the Curb and several others will offer lively musical performances throughout both days, all in a community garden where people can relax under shaded umbrellas and enjoy food from vendors like Little Pub Company and drinks from Crafthouse.

ally, making the festival one of the most competitive juried shows in the nation.

This year will showcase 255 national and international artists, 82 of which are firsttime exhibitors. There will be 30 artists from Colorado, including Tony Ortega and Jessica Magee, among others. These artists use a variety of media such as printmaking, painting, jewelry making and more.

Tony Ortega, a working artist and teacher of 33 years, enjoys creating vibrant drawings, paintings and prints.

In describing his work, Ortega said, “In my creative process I use distortion and exaggeration for emotional effect.

I apply vivid and dynamic color, overlapping transparent color with opaque color. I combine flat space with cubical space. My work interweaves, juxtaposes and superimposes unlikely images from American and Mexican popular cultures that include icons, symbols, history and the contemporary world to foster opportunities for the bending of meaning.”

Ortega’s work has appeared in sev-

Letters

vegetation to the point it may well take years to restore, all at taxpayer expense.

One thing for certain, our people population in the metro area has exploded. Open space is at a premium, and they’re not making any more of it.

To carve out acreage in city parks for the sole use of dogs is absurd and a poor use of precious resources. The need for dog parks is best served by private enterprise, not the taxpayer. One makes a choice to own a dog in an urban area and [must] accept the fact that resources for free-running dogs are limited.

Dogs are not denied access to our parks. They are required to be leashed.

And, considering most dogs are running on retractable leashes often 40 to 50 feet in front of the owner, I would say that’s a pretty good dog’s life.

CONTINUED FROM 2

exactly what you want, and you probably buy a little less. Sometimes finding what you want requires quite a bit of time and effort.

Claire Gemme _________________________________________

The dog park bandwagon Before the City and County of Denver jumps on the bandwagon to provide dog parks for urban residents, they may want to sit down and have a conversation with the folks at Jefferson County Open Space concerning their experience with the Elk Meadow Dog Park. It took volunteers and county workers two weeks to collect 500 pounds of dog feces from [that] park.

The land was compacted and devoid of

CONTINUED ON 22

Trish Kinkel

21

GARDENING Hope after the storm

By Liz Clift People in Colorado are fond of saying, “Don’t like the weather? Wait five minutes!”

While that is a reference to how the mountains influence the weather, it is also a testament to how little we understand weather: the specifics of what influences it in microclimates, how it will move, the impact of mountains or rivers or cities on any particular weather system.

The general rule of thumb, as I mentioned in an article earlier this year, is that you shouldn’t plant your garden in Denver until after Mother’s Day. Most years, after that point, we are past the average date of the last frost (April 30, according to the Farmer’s Almanac, and May 5, according to Colorado State University). But, of course, when you work with averages, you have to expect some deviation. In Denver, the latest snow storm happened on June 12, 1947— and there have been other late-season snowstorms.

The impact of the May hail, snow and cold temperatures on our gardens and fruit-bearing trees cannot be understated, of course. Those gardens and trees that were left uncovered are likely damaged. Any accumulation of ice and snow on branches of trees may have caused damage not only to the setting fruit but also to the branches themselves, causing them to stress or break.

This says nothing of the damage hail caused to many trees or gardens (and cars and buildings) the week before the snowstorm, or the likely future hail damage that could occur. As a gardener, it may be tempting to be discouraged, to throw in the towel on this year’s garden, especially if you lost a lot of plants.

I am going to encourage you not to do that.

Gardening can have a lot of upfront costs, and you’ve likely already absorbed these: the cost of preparing a bed, especially if you have just created one from what was once lawn. The cost of planters. The cost of tools. The cost of the time you have already spent on the garden. And, of course, the cost of plants, if you’ve bought seeds or starts, and the hail, snow or near-freezing temperatures damaged or killed them.

The thing is, not everyone lost all their starts or their plants. Do your neighbors or friends have some to spare? What could you plant now that will still bear well over the course of the season? What leftover seeds do you have that can be sown directly into the ground?

Start with those.

I am encouraging you to give your garden another chance, not only for the food you will produce for yourself (and possibly your neighbors), but also because studies have shown that gardening—working with the soil—increases levels of serotonin and dopamine in our brains. Gardening is a physical activity that can be modified for people with various accessibility needs and an opportunity for us to connect with something apart from our electronics-centered world.

Gardening is also a humble practice, especially in years like this one.

Have a wonderful Summer Solstice!

We cannot control the weather. We cannot control which plants barely survive and which ones thrive, although we can influence this through integrated pest management, companion planting, watering and the addition of nutrients. We cannot control a neighbor who might walk by and take a couple of snips of the beautiful flowers growing in our

up so that it is easy to unroll and secure away from your plants, while allowing air to circulate and providing a protective layer for plants against harsh weather.

So, if you lost plants in your garden this year, mourn that. It is also okay to be frustrated with the process, to mourn what does not go right. Learn from the

yards. These things are okay, and more than being okay, I would argue these are things we can celebrate. It is good for us to sometimes confront things outside of our control and accept them. Learning to work with these challenges will make us better gardeners and help (re)connect us to the place we are living.

When you begin again, make sure you have a way to easily protect plants against future weather that could harm them—an old sheet from a thrift store works wonders, because you can set it

weather this year. Take note of what plants bounced back after the cold, snow and hail and which ones did not.

As the saying goes, accept the things you cannot change. Learn from these things.

Liz Clift has led youth gardeningcourses, volunteered on a Catholic Worker farm, helped begin a community garden, and currently works at a restoration ecology firm. She has written for the Southern Poverty Law Center, literary journals and websites.

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22 Neighborhood

CONTINUED FROM 20

eral children’s books and has been on display at the Denver Art Museum, Los Angeles County Museum and the Colorado Springs Fine Art Center.

Jessica Magee, who was part of the Cherry Creek Arts Festival emerging artist program in 2014, is back as a first-time juried exhibitor in 2017. She draws from her passion for interior design to create brightly colored organic abstracts using unique combinations of color. Magee’s work has been on display at Room & Board in Cherry Creek North. Currently, she is partnering with West Elm as a local artist in the Denver and Boulder locations.

Over the last few years, the Cherry Creek Arts Festival has seen a continual increase in Colorado artists joining the show; this includes the number of artists who are a part of the Emerging Artist Program. This year, the program will fea-

ture four Colorado artists. The program is designed for artists who are beginning their careers and are new to exhibiting and selling their artwork.

For more information about Colorado artists, the Emerging Artist Program and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival, visit cherrycreekartsfestival.org. _________________________________________

SCPNA president departs; new president elected; a vote on liquor and cabaret licenses Hello Neighbors, This is my last missive as your neighborhood association president. Last week, 136 neighbors voted in a special election for a new president for the South City Park Neighborhood Association. We had two great candidates, Sabrina Zunker and Trent Thompson, willing to take over the

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neighborhood leadership. As one of the candidates said at our May 17 meeting, whoever you vote for, the neighborhood will be in good hands. And the winner is (drum roll) ... Trent Thompson. Congratulations, Trent! Trent will take over the position of President of South City Park Neighborhood Association for the remainder of 2017. Thank you to both Sabrina and Trent for stepping up and volunteering in our neighborhood!

Remember—if you want to get involved, there will be another election in November to elect officers for 2018.

We also have plenty of opportunities to serve on committees, or as a block captain. Email southcitypark@gmail.com if you are interested in volunteering with the neighborhood association.

We also voted last week on a Tavern Liquor License and Standard Cabaret License application for a new commercial neighbor, Middleman, moving into 3401

East Colfax (corner of Colfax & Cook).

Jareb Parker and Charlie Thomas, the business owners, attended our membership meeting on May 17 to discuss their business plans with the neighbors.

The neighbors voted in support of both the liquor and cabaret licenses. The vote on the tavern liquor license application was 115 in support, 20 in opposition and one abstention. Of those who voted in support of the liquor license, 115 voted in support of the cabaret license application, 13 opposed the cabaret license application and one person abstained.

Welcome to the neighborhood, Jareb and Charlie!

Thank you to the many neighbors who have pitched in and provided support to me and to our neighborhood association! You are the backbone of our community, and I appreciate your involvement.

Council

Activist

CONTINUED FROM 2

17 years, creating a better Denver—in large part, through our improved parks, open spaces and recreation centers.

I am serving with community stakeholders and working on our next vision plan, appropriately called Denver Parks and Rec 2017 Game Plan Update. Like the first plan, we seek to tie it into a greater vision plan for Denver, called Denveright (land use and transportation, parks and recreation, pedestrians and trails, transit). Game Plan 2017 has three phases.

It began with an analysis of the current state of the parks and recreational system. Next, goals for the next 20 years will be set. And, finally, a vision plan will be drafted and adopted. We will need your involvement in this process to make sure the vision for Denver’s future is a shared one. Go to denvergov.org/content/ denvergov/en/denveright.html for more information about the vision plan.

The Denver Parks and Rec system is one of our great community benefits.

As a community member, I regularly utilize our parks and trails. As a council member, I am working to ensure these assets truly benefit all of our communities. I have supported the designation of 1,100 acres as official parkland over the past five years. It is important that we take care of our public parks to ensure that future generations also have open spaces to enjoy. You have repeatedly expressed that park stewardship is a top priority. My office continually welcomes your input and suggestions regarding our parks and recreation centers. You can reach me at ortegaatlarge@denvergov. org or through my website, denvergov. org/district13.

Terry Neyland

CONTINUED FROM 2

Colorado Progressive Coalition, COPA has experienced rapid growth in the past year, doing relationship-based organizing and making long-term investment in the fight. Members live primarily in Denver and Aurora, and many are from immigrant and undocumented communities. COPA believes in accessibility and functions bilingually. Battling record-level deportations, and in an effort to keep families and communities together, Carrasquillo said "COPA is pushing Aurora and Denver not just to express their values of sanctuary, not just nice people saying nice things." The organization also does rapid-response work.

In the fight for racial justice, COPA is working for prosecutor accountability to address mass incarceration while doing climate and water justice campaigns in Montbello and Commerce City and advancing improved infrastructure for disproportionately harmed low-income people of color. In economic justice efforts, COPA led the successful passage of Amendment 70 and is now planting seeds for minimum wage under local control. In transit justice activity, COPA is advocating for an income-based pass, more affordability and accessibility, with community prioritization in expansions, including proper cover and lighting. Carrasquillo emphasized that for riders relying on public-transportation, "the stakes are higher than perceived."

To learn more about COPA, The People's Party and to get involved, visit coloradopeoplesalliance.org.

23 Parks

CONTINUED FROM 14

Then, with the legalization of marijuana, he noted many warehouses which no longer were used as workspaces and which had become artists’ studios and lofts were being bought and repurposed to serve the emerging grow industry.

“How it worked, we had this affordable warehouse district, loft space down here,” Crawford says. “Maybe ten years ago, when RiNo was taking off, we were known as RiSo, River South. I want us to be known as, maybe we can become a creative community. But pot changed all the available accommodations, wherever these creative people were hanging their hat.”

Crawford feels, at least as far as the arts scene is concerned, things are coming together for Overland. He notes the soon-to-launch Levitt Pavilion located in Ruby Hill Park, a venue which will host free and ticketed concerts starting July 2017, is a touchstone. While he stops short of saying recent developments are a capstone to a neighborhood transformation, he does feel they in some ways are fruit of his and neighbors’ work to improve the community and restore the Platte River through Overland, something Crawford and others have worked on for years.

In addition to Levitt, however, the neighborhood is set to receive another large music event: a multi-day music festival by for-profit organizer Superfly (responsible for Bonnaroo and San Francisco’s Outside Lands) meant to draw tens of thousands of attendees set to happen on the Overland Golf Course.

“I’m excited to highlight the river,” Crawford says. It’s a subject he can talk about with great energy for quite some time. “I’m excited also to highlight all the parks we have here now. Grant Frontier [Park] is right here behind my house, and it continues right on up past Evans. At Evans it's the same parkland but they call it Pasquinel’s [Landing] up there. Then it morphs into the golf course, and that morphs into Overland Pond Park. We have a mile or so of park here; it’s part of why I love this neighborhood.”

Overland’s parks and river greenway are perhaps Helene Orr’s favorite part of the neighborhood, too. Orr, a member of OPNA, lives on the southern boundary of Overland Golf Course, and

though she acknowledges the course is private, she feels welcome on it.

“In the evenings, or in the winter, when there’s snow on the ground, we can go out and walk on the course,” Orr says. “I’m very intimate with the golf course; I’m very intimate with the trees and the wildlife. It’s a pretty exceptional space. It is critical for urban areas to have these green spaces.”

Orr has lived in Denver since 1971 and in her house across from the golf course for 23 years. She is disturbed by the appearance of the festival on the horizon because, even though the festival will occur during a handful of days in late summer or early fall, she fears the impacts will be long lasting.

What has her most upset, though, is how the city and her RNO handled the community outreach and consensus building efforts around the festival. For her, everything seemed to be happening after a decision had been made. Both Cynthia Karvaski and Grace Ramirez, Community Affairs Liaison for DOSE, which was created in January 2015 to “help guide event organizers and film producers through the City's permitting process,” say Overland Music Festival promoters reached out to the city in late spring or early summer of 2016, well before the new Parks and Recreation rules were in place. That means the city knew about the festival more than half a year before Orr and OPNA report hearing about it.

Helene and Crawford both share that the City approached the neighborhood to discuss the festival in December. Orr feels that the City used the runup to “manufacture consent” among community members before approaching Overland and OPNA publicly.

Regardless of what was going on behind the scenes, Jolon Clark, Denver City Councilman for District 7, the district which includes Overland, says the notification efforts and subsequent discussions around the festival go above and beyond what was required of the city at that time.

“To be honest, [Helene] has asked along the way for a level of notification that doesn’t exist if the person next door to you were to apply to the City for eight-story zoning in a single-family-home neighborhood,” for instance, Clark says. “Even with something as [extreme] as that, the city does not go out and leaf and flyer every resident.

There are some requirements for notification of directly adjacent neighbors, and there are requirements to notify the RNO via email.”

and, to a larger extent, Denver? The Overland music festival’s contract will be decided in the coming months, and there is growing interest in a poten-

The scene at Civic Center Eats, an annual food truck extravaganza happening every Tuesday through Thursday, May 2-Oct. 5 at Colfax and Broadway in Civic Center Park. Photos by Sara Hertwig.

Clark says that what has happened between the Overland RNO and the City in regards to the number of discussions and informational meetings—ten occurred between January 11 and March 14, 2016 according to Grace Ramirez of DoSE—exceeds what is required by a large margin.

So where does this leave Overland,

tially soon-to-be-for-sale golf course in the City’s northeast quadrant. The coming installment in this series will dig deeper into the Overland music festival’s contract negotiation process and will look at numerous other factors shaping the fate of Denver’s parks.

Have a question or concern? Email editor@denvermetromedia.com.

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