Neighborhood Life — April 2016

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04 16 DENVER’S ARCHITECTURE ON DISPLAY AS PART OF DOORS OPEN DENVER

Doors Open Denver will feature 12 new buildings as part of the 70 sites that are free to explore through the self-guided portion of the event, including the ART, a 4.5 star luxe hotel pictured above. PHOTO BY DANI SHAE THOMPSON

By Jacob Karp Denver’s architecture and design will be on display April 23 and 24 as part of the 12th annual Doors Open Denver, which will showcase an array of high profile, historic and artistic structures throughout the city.

Headquartered at the newly renovated Union Station, this year’s annual two day event is once again sponsored by the Denver Architectural Foundation and

HIDDEN GEM: THE EPWORTH BUILDING RESURRECTION

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will provide opportunities for residents and visitors to explore 70 of Denver’s unique spaces through self and expert-guided tours.

This year’s celebration will feature 12 new buildings as part of the 70 sites that are free to explore through the self-guided portion of the event. New sites include the recently restored Airedale Building, the community-focused music education center Youth on Record,

Photos & Copy by J. L. Schultheis Price On a totally random basis, I make time to delve into a special topic impacting business news on my beat. Sometimes, it’s a major milestone or an unforgettable character. It’s always a treat for me, but I confess I have never before written about a brick building.

‘Captivated’ just about sums up my reaction each time I have stepped inside the old Epworth Institutional Church building that now houses Little White Dress. Its rebirth is a testament to one man’s love of old architecture and the result is nothing short of spectacular.

Built in the Classic Revival and Italianate styles over a hundred years ago, Epworth Church and Community Center was an integral part of the community for decades. It was the second home for a Methodist congregation founded in the 1890s by Melissa Briggs. The first was just blocks away on Market.

When the Epworth congregation relocated to 31st & Law-

@DenverLifeNews facebook.com/ and the exemplary ART Hotel. Reappearing on the list #NeighborhoodLens neighborhoodlife are iconic Denver structures including the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, the Equitable Building and the Sugar Building.

Originally built in 1890 as Kopper’s Hotel, the Airedale was re-opened in 2015 and is a must-visit due to recent renovations. Now home to Hostel Fish on the top two levels and Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox on the bottom two levels, the Victorian-era Airedale building once housed a brothel and peep show. Today the building is on the National Register of Historic Places and features the aforementioned Ophelia’s, the latest project of Justin Cucci and the Edible Beats team.

Ophelia’s operates as a restaurant, bar and live-music venue with a boudoir-style decor that honors the building’s past and its original muse, Ophelia. Continuing the Edible Beats tradition of delicious, responsibly sourced food, the upscale, gastro brothel-inspired menu includes fresh, craveable takes on flatbread pizza, small plates, burgers and shareable charcuterie boards.

Paying subtle homage to the unique history of the building, the design mash-up consists of Cucci’s trademark “recycled & repurposed craziness” and features 4,000 collected Jager bottles, a stage backdrop of 500 transistor radios, vintage movie-theater wallpaper and a host of old booths and marquees.

Dually serving as the Hostel Fish, the Airedale features an 80-bed hostel of classical, modern and shabby chic stylings that pays homage to the historical beauty of the 120-year-old building. With nightly stays for around $45, the Hostel Fish also offers its guests all-inclusive ski trips and typical amenities that one would expect to find only in upscale lodging.

Also featured is the Black American West Museum and Heritage Center. Built in 1890 and located at 3091 continued on page 2

rence, the neighborhood was primarily an industrial area.

Boarding houses, saloons, and private homes shared the landscape. Epworth was located nearby to provide for the residents’ spiritual needs. After a while, they added a gym to tend to other needs of the community.

Historic Denver said, “It is clear that the church was not merely concerned with spiritual well-being, but aimed to serve the physical, social, and emotional needs of its community, too.”

The Junius Brown Titsworth Memorial Gymnasium – now home to Little White Dress – was added to the structure in 1925, but it’s so well done that it looks as if it were part of the initial construction.

The gymnasium made its own contribution to Denver history.

Here local boxing champion and political activist Rodolfo ‘Corky’ Gonzalez perfected his boxing moves. The congregation, continued on page 7

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04 16 EDITORIAL

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HAVE YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS PUBLISHED IN NEIGHBORHOOD LIFE! Have you noticed the five photos that now appear on the cover of Neighborhood Life each month?

Well, people just like YOU submit them! While you’re out snapping photos around our neighborhood, simply include the hashtag #NeighborhoodLens. It could be a photo of you and your dog playing at the park, a gorgeous sunset, or a group of friends attending a concert – the content is up to you.

What are we looking for in a great photo? Make sure your photos are clear, bright, and representative of what’s going on in our neighborhood.

Also, tag the location of the photo so we can see where exciting things are happening! Avoid using certain frames and filters that heavily distort the original image. Finally, make sure the

photo is something you (and anyone else in the photo) are okay having published on the front of the paper.

Follow us on Instagram @DenverLifeNews, on Twitter @DenverLifeNews, and at facebook.com/neighborhoodlife for more local news and photos throughout the month.

Happy snapping!

-Neighborhood Life Staff Cover photos by (L to R) 1. Molly McCormick @mollymccormickphoto 2. Brooke Curran, @beeanywhere 3. Rob Yankovich, @shahofblah0 4. Lesley Yarbrough, @sprouticus 5. Matt Slocum @msloc016

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SAVING DENVER’S SPORTS CASTLE

by Julie Hutchinson Owners of the iconic Sports Castle building at 1000 Broadway said it’s unlikely the iconic, circa-1925 structure will face the wrecking ball.

“We have not currently contemplated any scenario that doesn’t include repurposing the building,” said Mark Sidell, president of Gart Properties, a Denver-based company that bought the property in 1971 and has deep local roots in retailing, real estate and philanthropy.

The future of the ornate, circa-1925 building was thrown into question when its current tenant, Sports Authority, filed for bankruptcy in March and said the Sports Castle location along with about 140 of its 450 stores nationwide would close.

The imminent closing has sparked concern among neighborhood organizations and architectural historians over the future of the property, which sits at the center of a neighborhood exploding with new construction in the midst of a booming real estate market.

Annie Levinsky, executive director of Historic Denver, confirmed that she met in March with Sidell and Tom Gart, president of Gart Companies, and discussed the implications and tax consequences of landmark designation.

“We had a great first meeting,” Lewinsky said. “We of course think it’s a great building eligible for landmark designation and would love to see that happen.”

At press time Gart officials remained mum about whether they will apply for designation.

But Sidell said the Gart Family, which bought the property in 1971, considers the Sports Castle “a legacy asset.”

Gart Properties is exploring options for redevelopment that could include retail, residential and office combinations.

DOORS OPEN Continued from 1 California Street, the home commemorates Justina Laurena Ford Warren, Colorado’s first African-American female doctor.

Born in 1871 and graduated from Chicago’s Hering Medical College in 1899, Warren was granted her medical license in 1902 but was later denied membership to the Colorado Medical Society, and thus could not practice in local medical hospitals.

Breaking barriers for both blacks and women, she was eventually appointed staff physician at Denver General. Warren received the Denver Cosmopolitan Club’s Human Rights Award for her dedication and humanitarianism.

The home and museum was dedicated in 1971 and moved to its present location in 1983 to later become the Black American West Museum, founded to preserve the history of African Americans in the Old West.

Ann McNeill, left, outside the Sports Castle at 1000 Broadway. Her grandfather Ward Thompson commissioned the design and construction of the building and opened his Chrysler dealership there in 1926. Top right: A view of the grand showroom in the early years. Note the elaborate ceilings and chandelier. Much of the interior architectural detail remains. Bottom right: Postcard sent as advertising to customers of Cullen-Thompson Motor Co. PHOTO BY JULIE HUTCHINSON “In the grand scheme of things the solution will almost certainly include a mix of different types of uses,” Sidell commented.

Gart Sporting Goods opened its first store on Larimer Street in 1928. When the family opened the Sports Castle in 1971, it featured rooftop tennis courts, indoor putting greens and artificial ski slopes. By the time the family sold the business in 1992, Gart Sporting Goods counted more than 150 stores in the Rocky Mountain region.

But the building had a much different life before it was the Sports Castle.

Ann McNeill, a Denver-based real estate agent, considers the building “my grandfather’s castle.” Her grandfather, Ward Thompson, opened one of Denver’s first car dealerships in 1912 selling Chryslers and Maxwell automobiles.

In the booming early 1920s, with the encouragement of Chrysler Corp. founder, Walter Chrysler, Thompson bankrolled the Sports Castle’s design and construction and opened Cullen-Thompson Motor Co. in 1926 with three floors of gleaming new Chryslers connected by ramps for

moving the cars.

“When I was a young girl it was a big deal to visit Grandpa at the car dealership. All the marble and stained glass and chandeliers and frescoes – I was very impressed,” said McNeill, who has contacted Gart Properties to express her desire that the building be preserved.

Designed by Denver architect Jacques J. Benedict, the Sports Castle is the only commercial building that remains from his commercial portfolio. Benedict also designed scores of Denver mansions along with Holy Ghost Catholic Church and the Washington Park Boathouse.

Educated as an architect in France, he designed 1000 Broadway to look like a French castle with parapets, a turret and Chrysler logos embedded in arched transoms framing the showroom windows.

The Sports Castle structure is one of several buildings remaining on Broadway with ties to the era when the street was known as Gasoline Alley. Signs of the street’s connection to the automobile business are still visible on several structures on Broadway between Colfax and Speer.

In addition to the free self-guided tours, Doors Open Denver will also feature a ticketed offering of “Insider Tours” that will provide engaging opportunities that will allow attendees to hear directly from experts about Denver structures and locations that are significant to our city’s history, development, design and future. Architects, landscape architects, historians and urban enthusiasts will lead Tours of these sites, with 17 of the 44 Insider Tours being new to Doors Open Denver. Insider Tour tickets may be purchased for $10 online starting March 25 for Denver Architectural Foundation members and April 8 for the general public.

The combination of the free and ticketed tour options will provide a well-rounded view of Denver’s progressive and innovative architecture.

“Architecture and design are key elements in the form, function and aesthetics of our community. Doors Open Denver

extends this value and aims for event participants to observe and engage with the built environment through an artistic and cultural lens,” elucidated Pauline Herrera Serianni, executive director of the Denver Architectural Foundation.

In addition to this year’s new participants, Doors Open Denver offer arts and cultural activities at multiple participating sites as well as other Denver locations thanks to the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. These activities include the “Grannie does Graffiti Art” pop-up on the Clyfford Still Museum lawn, a Botanic Gardens Conservatory-inspired fashion exhibition and architecturally inspired silk screening on tote bags and more.

Pre-event tours featuring the iconic bars of Denver will also be offered starting April 1 and will cost between $25-35 per ticket.

For a complete list of participating sites of free and Insider Tours please visit the Doors Open Denver

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LINCOLN HILLS: 20TH CENTURY AFRICAN AMERICAN OASIS TO 21ST CENTURY ROCKY MOUNTAIN RETREAT

By Jennifer Turner In 1922, African American Denverites E.C. Regnier and Roger Ewalt made history when they formed the Lincoln Hills Development Company. Their goal was to build a resort (named Lincoln Hills) for middle-class African Americans in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. At the time of its founding, Lincoln Hills was the only vacation retreat west of the Mississippi River owned by and catering to African Americans. Almost 100 years later, the Lincoln Hills property, located on South Boulder Creek in Blackhawk, now serves another important purpose. It is the backdrop for Lincoln Hills Cares (LHC), a charity that provides unforgettable mountain experiences for underprivileged youth, their families and veterans.

The original Lincoln Hills resort encompassed over 100 acres, and in the 1920s and 1930s, more than 600 lots were sold.

Most were small and only 25 feet x 100 feet, and cost $50 to $100.

Cabins were typically erected on the lots, or they were used as campsites. The owners came from across the United States, but the vast majority hailed from Denver’s African American community.

At the time, Denver had the largest African American population in Colorado. While there were no Jim Crow laws, black citizens still encountered widespread discrimination. Housing and employment opportunities were scarce, and many of Denver’s schools and parks were segregated. In 1932, a group of African Americans attempted to swim in Washington Park. White residents armed with sticks and rocks accosted them and when the police arrested ten of the swimmers, a riot ensued.

The Klu Klux Klan was also a major influence in Colorado in the 1920s; there were 17,000

Klan members in Denver alone.

Governor Clarence Morley and Denver Mayor Ben Stapleton were both Klansmen. There were also Klan members and their sponsored candidates in the Colorado State House and Senate, and Supreme and District Courts.

Lincoln Hills was particularly important to African Americans in the first half of the 20th century because they were barred from many leisure opportunities open to whites. The resort was an oasis where they could hike, fish and camp in peace, and leave racial prejudices behind.

Obrey Wendell “Winks” Hamlet and his wife Naomi played important roles in the establishment of Lincoln Hills. In 1925, the couple began construction on Winks Lodge, also called Winks Panorama. It was the first full-service resort in Lincoln Hills and was finished in 1928. Winks Panorama is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Since there were only a handful of resorts during that era which catered to black citizens, Winks Lodge drew many of the nation’s most talented African American creative luminaries.

Musicians Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Lena Horne visited.

The Hamlets also hosted many famed African American authors including Langston Hughes and Zora Neal Thurston.

Throughout the Great Depression, World War II and until the mid-1960s, the Lincoln Hills resort continued to hold a unique and significant place in the African American community. After the Civil Rights Movement, there were fewer and fewer visitors since more opportunities began to open up for black citizens.

Fast-forward fifty years. In 2008, Robert F. Smith and Matthew Burkett, avid fly-fishermen, entrepreneurs and philanthropists purchased the 177-acre property that contains seven miles of river.

Youth participating in the Lincoln Hills Cares Outdoor Education Program examine elk and deer antlers found on the property. PHOTO COURTESY OF LINCOLN HILLS CARES Mr. Smith grew-up in Denver and vacationed at Lincoln Hills as a child. His mother, who has a PhD in Education, carried him in her arms at the March on Washington where Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech. A graduate of East High School, Cornell University and Columbia Business School, he went on to found Vista Equity Partners, a highly successful private equity firm.

Mr. Burkett is the founder of The Flyfisher Group, a capital, consulting and holding company that specializes in growing sustainable assets. A graduate of Oberlin College, he has founded over 10 companies in his 20-year career. Mr. Burkett is also a professional, globetrotting fly angler.

Originally, Smith and Burkett utilized the Lincoln Hills property primarily as a fly-fishing retreat, but their vision of what it could be has begun to take shape. In 2009, they established Lincoln Hills Cares to serve underprivileged youth, their families and veterans.

The organization has four core

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programs: Lincoln Hills Educational Programs, Nizhoni Summer Equestrian Program, TeamWorks Youth Work Program and Anglers of Honor.

Lincoln Hills Cares Outdoor Educational Programs offers interactive outdoor experiences for youth. They make new friends while participating in group activities centered on a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) based curriculum.

The Nizhoni Summer Equestrian Program provides youth and teen girls confidence building equestrian experiences. Camp Nizhoni, which mean “beautiful” in Navaho, has a rich history.

Originally founded in 1924, it was created in response to the segregationist policies of the time that prevented African American girls from attending the same YMCA as white children.

Metro Denver and Gilpin Counties 16-20 year olds participate in the TeamWorks Youth Work Program, which is an eight-week service learning experience.

The program is designed to be a resume builder for college appli-

cations as well as an opportunity to acquire leadership skills.

Participants are also paid $10-$12 an hour to perform maintenance work on the Lincoln Hills property.

The Anglers with Honor program serves veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

During the summer, small groups and their families are given the opportunity to fly-fish on the property as a thank-you for their service to the country.

In 2015, over 1200 children and their families participated in various activities through LHC. To date, more than 600 veterans and their families have taken part in fishing activities that help in their recovery process.

While Smith and Burkett have generously provided the seed funding for LHC, the organization is also pursuing other donors and grants, as well as businesses willing to provide in-kind support for various equipment.

For more information on LHC please visit lincolnhillscares.org or email J.R. Lapierre at jr@lincolnhillscares.org.

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Food and music are key at The Preservery at Backyard on Blake but the #1 ingredient may be community which is reflected by the large community tables inside and on the spacious patio.

BUSINESS Photos & Copy by J.L. Schultheis Price

OPENINGS: A trio of new openings on a single block heads the list of tempting places to visit in April.

They’re worth a special trip because Backyard on Blake is really starting to pop.

The renovated warehouse and new build complex at 3040 Blake is now home to an eatery and music venue, some stellar vintage and sustainable, fashionable goods as several new entrepreneurs throw open the doors to a pair of brick and mortar locations.

THE PRESERVERY It’s a bakery. A deli. A fast casual eatery. A retail marketplace and a bar. It’s simply the end result of what happens when two former music students put their heads

together to launch a community-driven food and music hall.

The Preservery occupies the northwest corner of the old warehouse space. The space comes with soaring ceilings, huge moveable windows and a flood of natural light.

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night music, it’s the brainchild of Obe and Whitney Ariss. He brings a decade of nonprofit development experience to the mix and she’s worked for a dozen years in the hospitality and food industry. They want to give their unique blend of offerings “the heart of a nonprofit.”

“We are building a social enterprise,” says Whitney Ariss. “Our mission with The Preservery is to help create positive change in the community and get more people supporting local food and music.”

The food offerings were added one by one to the menu with Ariss focused on maximizing use

Men’s and women’s clothing, vintage vinyl and accessories are the main offerings at Judith and Joe.

of the local supply chain.

That means seasonal menus and what the duo call ‘storied ingredients.’

“Whether it comes from the urban farmer down the street or it's a fair traded spice from the other side of the world, each of our ingredients has a story worth telling and retelling,” the venture’s website explains.

As the name suggests, you’ll find all kinds of preserved foods here – cheeses, salumi, pickles, jellies and more. They’re paired up in sandwiches, salads, soups and other menu offerings.

Then there’s the music. The ebullient food and music scene of New Orleans inspired Preservery’s owners so their goal is “to create a place where both great food and live music are celebrated and have some good old fashioned fun in the process.”

This passion translates into live music brunches on weekends, a NOLA music night weekly (complete with beignet specials) and a folk night. Check out thepreservery.com/listen for the upcoming schedule of events.

Menu offerings range from the simple to the exotic. Snacks include baked clams with escargot butter and grilled baguette. The salad section includes octopus with smoked tomato, capers, crispy garlic and basil or red

Russian kale with anchovies, roast beets, almonds and citrus.

Heartier meals include a zucchini, potato and eggplant moussaka, halibut in saffron broth and braised rabbit.

There’s a notable emphasis on baked goods too. Banana fritters with tahini caramel and whiskey bread pudding are two offerings.

You can also order beignets two ways.

Still the biggest takeaway is likely to be community. Naturally, community tables abound both inside and on the north-facing patio but there’s more to this business element. In addition to connecting folks over food, expect educational efforts, fundraising, sustainability focus and evidence of individuals practicing gratitude to craft a unique culture. This is also a ‘No Tips Zone.”

At press time, The Preservery’s hours were still evolving, but doors open Tues.-Sat. at 10 am currently. The kitchen is open later to dish up snacks for live music fans.

The 2,600 sq. ft. space is eclectic and very inviting. These old RiNo warehouses create some amazing renovations. Take a look at thepreservery.com.

JUDITH AND JOE The other newcomers at Backyard on Blake are Judith and Joe

and La Lovely Vintage. The two fledgling ventures both began on wheels and are now ready to put down roots. They share a space on the downtown side of the building fronting on Blake.

The names may ring a bell.

Judith and Joe began on a bus that made regular stops at places like The Big Wonderful, Bazaar and the Denver Flea. Pop-up sales were their bread and butter until they found this sunny, cozy space.

While some would call it diminutive, the owners have a different perspective.

“Coming from a bus, it’s massive,” exclaimed J&J co-owner Brandee Castle. She and Sara Graf were clearly ready for the next step.

“We have retired the bus,” she said. “Everything from Judith and Joe is designed to give back. We try to give people an opportunity to shop responsibly.”

Castle is referring to the venture’s focus on Made in the US goods or products that support a cause. The only thing she can’t explain is the story of how the name for her clothing and accessories venture was selected.

“I wish I had a good story.

They (Judith and Joe) are whoever you want them to be,” she stated. A male and female name were selected to underscore the fact that the business sells both men’s and women’s goods. Makes sense to me.

Castle urges shoppers to check out her product lines on Instagram where new posts are added most days of the week. Hours are Tues.-Sat., 11 am-7 pm.

LA LOVELY VINTAGE Sharing the space with J&J is a vintage-focused business that rescues elegant vintage goods – both wearable and decorative.

Here you’ll find sparkling jewelry, vintage sewing machines, elegant clothing and great home accent pieces.

La Lovely also was a mobile venture started in a trailer. Owner Tara Lovato will still operate that trailer for occasional special events, but the goal here is to put down roots in what could become the neighborhood’s hottest new destination spot.

Hours are Tues.-Sat., 11 am-7 pm here as well and Lovato is also active on Instagram.

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A blend of gems and vintage jewels adorn the walls and shelves of La Lovely Vintage, a new brick and mortar location for a former pop-up business.

MY WINE AND SPIRITS SHOPPE In the 2700 block of Welton, My Wine and Spirits is now open on the lower level of the old Tillman Academy building. It’s a new incarnation for East Denver Liquor which closed this month in the 1400 block of E. 22nd in Whittier.

Owners Matthew and Patricia Yarber could not be more thrilled with this new location. After 23 years on E. 22nd, they have a sparkling new space that more than doubles the size of their venture.

In the liquor business, operators talk about having ‘more doors’. That term references cooler doors and this new location has 14 compared to the old spot’s meager 6. That means more cold beverages for sale.

Moves are never easy, but this one – triggered in part by soaring rent and the inability to sign a new 5-year lease at the old location – has given its owners a chance to begin again. New name and a new store to reflect changing times.

“It was a godsend. A good thing,” said Patricia Yarber. “We wanted to remodel, but (the old space) was so small. Customers in the other area were also demanding more wines.”

Now we find an extensive selection of vino to meet those expectations. You’ll also find more craft beers. Hours are 10 am-midnight except Sunday when doors close at 9 pm.

SWEET LEAF MARIJUANA CENTERS This expanding chain of cannabis centers has opened a new location in the 2600 block of Walnut just a door south of Osaka Ramen. That brings its number of Colorado stores to six.

The shop at 2609 Walnut caters to both recreational and medical marijuana users. The number is 303-862-6481 and hours are Mon.-Sat., 9 am-6:45 pm, Sun 10 am-5:45 pm. Browse their services at sweetleafmarijuana.com.

SYRUP ON THE PARK “I have wanted (this building) for 20 years.”

That’s a fact, so it’s no wonder that owner Tim Doherty is highly enthusiastic about his latest venture – Syrup On the Park – slated to open to the public April 4th.

This is the former Le Peep’s Uptown space, 1875 York, that closed last year, but nearly every detail is brand new. New lighting, new plumbing, new kitchen, and a new full-service bar serving alcohol and espresso round out the changes. In short, an amazing re-build.

The result is a relaxing vibe that’s a bit reminiscent of a country garden. Choose a seat on the expansive patio across from City Park and you can even smell the trees leafing out!

A spacious lounge area opens onto the exterior space in warm weather through folding glass walls. Straight ahead is the bar with lots of counter seating and pendant lights that resemble large kitchen whisks. A main dining area contains two spacious rooms plus a private room that can seat up to 30 for meetings.

This is the third location for Syrup. The first opened in Cherry Creek North (CCN) several years ago and is still going strong.

Doherty ran the LoDo Bar and Grille before getting into the am business. He welcomes the morning and hours that run from 7 am-2 pm weekdays and 7:30 am-2 weekends. He said he doesn’t miss the nightlife.

“I build all my concepts around food,” he said. “If we have a bar, that’s fine. No bar, also fine.”

This Syrup location will feature the identical menu and operating hours as Doherty’s other two spots. That means you’ll be able to order the Kitchen Sink – a bed of smashed tater tots, open-faced biscuit, maple-peppered bacon, and 2 eggs any style, smothered in white country sausage gravy – at this location as well.

What’s different is, this location will also be open for private events in the evenings if there’s demand. The patio seating over 65 could book up quickly on summer nights and would give Doherty’s crew an opportunity to display the company’s catering offerings.

There’s also talk of a Friday night ‘Breakfast for Dinner’ concept – an idea that could catch on quickly. We all know Denver’s big on breakfast. Their number is 303284-6117 and syruprestaurant. com is the web address.

Next up for the Syrup crew is a new eatery in the 2700 block of Welton that will feature casual comfort food. That will be a

The new liquor store in the 2700 block of Welton, My Wine, is larger and packed with walls of coolers and a new, expanded wine selection.

dinner spot open from around 4-10 pm.

BREAD ‘N BUTTER The name says it all. The new eatery at 1612 E. 17th in Uptown is all about comfort and basics.

But there’s a twist.

‘Gastro-Southern’ is how managing partner Larry Lane describes the menu. When restaurateur Alex Gurevich closed Limón several months ago, he and Lane set out to create a gastro pub focused on specialties from the South.

The affordable menu dishes up main courses like fried oyster and Andouille sausage Po’ Boys or shrimp & grits plus sides like bourbon-baked beans or cheddar cheese popovers with a hint of fresh rosemary. Strawberry moonshine hand-made pies are on the menu for dessert.

Bar offerings are adventurous Brittany_NL_6x6.875.pdf 1 03/23/2015 too. First, there’s a menu that

includes 50 different whiskeys – many from Colorado distillers – and a dozen varieties of scotch, but they are big on bourbon, yes they are.

Cocktails include a shoo fly punch and a mint julep iced tea plus a Vieux Carre classic with Benedictine, cognac, vermouth, bitters and rye.

Bar maestro Evan Feezel, who began his tenure at the company’s Next Door Lounge (next door), stated that B-n-B’s Happy Hour is a terrific offering. It runs from 4 pm-6 pm and features $5 cocktails and some great appetizers.

“We also have several specialty beers on draft and by the bottle that are in constant rotation.

Five small batch draft options, four mass produced, and 13 craft bottles in all,” he added.

Fans of Limón may not recognize the new space. Feezel 2:00:01 PM said, “Only the brick wall on the

east of the dining room was left untouched.”

Barrels that were part of the old design have been repurposed into shelving. A fire pit was added on the front patio. Lane and Feezel, who are quite handy, in conjunction with Mark Wolff and Bill Brock, two other Next Door bartenders, did all the work themselves.

For now, the plan is to serve dinner nightly and add brunch on weekends starting in May. Doors open at 4 pm and the kitchen’s open until 11 pm. Reservations are accepted for parties of eight or more. Call 303-322-0898 or check out breadnbutterdenver.com.

DENVER BICYCLE CAFÉ, REPAIRS AND BEER HALL It’s been smooth riding since continued on page 6

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6

Workers put the finishing touches at Syrup on the Park in the 1800 block of York.

BUSINESS Continued from 5 Denver Bicycle Café opened in Uptown’s 1300 block of E. 17th in 2011. First, the venture expanded its repair operation. Now the crew has thrown open the doors to the western corner of the complex at 1304 E. 17th to add a bar.

“The Beer Hall was conceived of as a space separate from the coffee shop that would allow adult drinkers their own space to enjoy Colorado craft beer,” said co-owner Jessica Caouette.

“This space will have a brand new tap system with state-ofthe-art technology, allowing us to showcase local brewers in the same quality environment they build for their own tap rooms. It also allows us to expand the coffee shop hours later into the evening for students and groups who want a quiet gathering space.”

The plan is to continue serving Colorado beer, cider and wine in the new space.

Uptown has clearly been the right fit for this company.

“I grew up a few blocks away and Peter (Roper) and I have always gravitated to this neighborhood. We know and understand the population and are pleased with how it has grown,” she added.

The area’s growing up rapidly.

There are several new developments underway along 17th including some new apartment complexes.

“Those developments and the new spots that have opened

around us have proven that Uptown is a great neighborhood for local business,” Caouette added.

While all three aspects of the business are under one roof, they will have different hours. Beer Hall hours are 3 pm-midnight.

The bike shop operates from 10 am-7 pm and the coffee shop side is 6 am-8 pm. The phone for all aspects of the business is 720-4468029.

CHANGES: RIVER NORTH BREWERY If you’ve missed the River North brew crew since their original home on Blake closed last fall, their new (and hopefully temporary) taproom is opening on April 2nd at 6021 Washington. That’s where the beer is being brewed these days, too.

River North was one of the area’s first craft breweries, but their first home closed after the building was sold. The team at River North hopes one day to reopen a tasting room in RiNo, but for now this location is your only option.

CROSSFIT VERVE After four years at 3344 Walnut, the crew at CrossFit Verve had the opportunity to put their fitness levels to practical use when the company moved a ton of equipment to new digs two blocks away.

Verve’s new address is 3545 Larimer – a much larger space than the original spot. The lease on Walnut was up and the duo running Verve felt they just needed more room.

Bar maestro Evan Feezel presents two of his signature bourbon cocktails at Bread ’n Butter, a new Southern gastro pub on E. 17th in Uptown.

“We had several ideas for new programs and classes at Verve that we felt could be better played out in a larger facility. The decision was really sealed for us when one of our members informed us he had a building two blocks down the street he was looking to lease,” said co-owner Courtney Shepherd.

Some members were so jazzed that they pitched in to help move equipment. That must have been a unique WOD (workout of the day) for which CrossFit is well known.

The new space is more than 3,000 sq. ft. larger than Verve’s first home.

“We now have a men's and women's locker room with multiple bathroom stalls and multiple showers. We have a room entirely dedicated to retail, as well as an additional room we set up for kids to play while their parents workout. A bonus for the trainers is a large mezzanine that now acts as our office space.”

Multiple classes can now be held at the same time. Shepherd is also rolling out new programs for members including a Verve Barbell Club and Verve Sprint. Barbell focuses on Olympic lifts and complex barbell movements. Sprint is geared for athletes who want the constantly varied, high-intensity training portion of CrossFit while minimizing those complex barbell movements.

“Our members love their new lockers rooms and they have a spiffy new drinking fountain with the built in water bottle filler,” she said.

A range of new classes is also

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FIGHT GRAVITY FITNESS Sometimes getting fit requires some special, one-on-one attention. Owner Nick Butler has officially opened his second location for Fight Gravity – a small, private studio in the Dry Ice Factory on 33rd & Walnut.

“I want to focus on providing clients with a more intimate setting to allow them to train without interruption,” Butler said.

He also still utilizes the EpicRyde space in the 2800 block of Larimer and may add another trainer this year as well.

Fightgravityfit.com is Butler’s website. You can reach him at 309-224-5157.

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rolling out. The list includes bodyweight movements, rowing, running, jumping, plyometrics, med balls, kettlebells, and dumbbells. Whew!

“Verve also has an All-American collegiate rower who has been the lead trainer for our rowing program at Verve for years, she will return with more rowing madness,” Shepherd said.

The business holds classes 365 days a year. Trainers guide each class through warm-ups, movement reviews, and any needed modifications, including those for anyone with an injury, pregnant, or simply new to CrossFit. “You don't have to know anything about CrossFit to get started, we would love to introduce you to it, simply stop by,” she said.

The company offers a free introductory class in many instances.

Discounts are offered for members who are in the military, full-time students, teachers and/or seniors.

Hours are Mon.-Thurs., 5:30 am-9 pm, Fri., 5:30 am-7 pm, Sat., 9 am-1:30 pm & Sun., 9 am-11 am. Crossfitverve.com has the full schedule or call 720-238-7783.

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It’s baaaack! The Denver Flea will hold its spring session the weekend of April 23 & 24. This season’s location is the EXDO Events center at 1399 35th St. Plans indicate this one will be bigger than usual with streets around the center shut down for the event.

Over 200 vendors are expected and you can find the full list at Denverflea.com. Admission is $5 and includes one beverage – alco-

holic or non.

If you reserve tickets in advance, you may be in time to snag a second admission for free using the code “Friendship”.

THE SOURCE POP-UP MARKET Not to be outdone by the Flea, The Source at 3350 Brighton will host a special, curated spring pop-up event April 9 & 10 from 10 am-4 pm.

The event features vendors such as Valentich Bags, Simply Guapa, Mercury Mercury Design Lab, Craft Boner, Witch Collective, PB Love, Sasquatch Co. & Supply, Willow Boutique and more.

Thesourcedenver.com is the market’s source for additional details.

CRAFTSMAN & APPRENTICE Craftsman & Apprentice is expanding and then moving into new spaces in the 1300 block of E. 22nd. The shop that launched a series of workshops for kids has quickly blossomed into a thriving venture with adult appeal as well.

“We more than doubled our space, and when we get the keys to the adjacent shop we will have quadrupled our space from the original shop,” co-founder Delanie Holton proudly proclaimed.

There are now twice as many workshop events to sign up for and there will be 10 full weeks of kids’ summer camp plus field trips, after school programs and private events held at the new space.

C&A took over the old church space first. They will eventually move out of their first location at 1325 E. 22nd and an adjacent business will expand into that space.

When the retail space opens, regular hours will be set. For now, workshops are by appointment and reservation. Craftsmanandapprentice.com has the full list of events and classes.

WATERCOURSE FOODS Last week, I touched base with Lauren Roberts, one of the new owner/operators at Watercourse Foods on E. 17th. Roberts runs the place with mom, Jennifer Byers and Jennifer’s husband, Steve.

After eight months at the helm, the trio has unveiled some changes designed to build on the vegecontinued on page 12

7 EPWORTH Continued from 1 which also offered classes to area children, then added a medical clinic in the complex.

In 1918, the Denver chapter of Goodwill Industries was established with an operating location in the building. Later, Goodwill would use the spectacular building’s sanctuary as a warehouse for two decades. Current owner Larry Nelson can point out where a circular stained glass window was removed so trucks could be driven into the heart of the building.

That thought still makes me shudder, as I too share Nelson’s passion for old architecture and detailing.

Then the structure sat unused and neglected for over three decades – a home for vagrants and stray birds. It’s amazing it didn't succumb to fire or flood, or some other disaster. HistoricDenver.org offers an excellent history of the building and its congregation, but it’s the structure’s rebirth that is the real story.

A couple years ago the vacant structure caught Nelson’s eye.

He’s a developer and admittedly an “old buildings guy” with impressive credentials. Nelson and his wife, Ruth Falkenberg, have earned major recognition for their restoration projects including one of my personal favorites – Hanger 61 at Stapleton. Ironically, the hanger’s now a church and the old Epworth church is now the home to a bridal company and will soon welcome a landscape architecture firm.

Epworth was a shell waiting for a visionary when Nelson, whose 620 Corp offices are just a

few blocks west on Blake, began imagining the possibilities.

“It’s been a fun project,” he confessed. “Vacant for 35 years, it’s pretty remarkable that it survived. It suffered a lot of water damage. It had no windows.

Miraculously the stained glass windows were protected enough to restore, although there were a few bullet holes.”

A restoration expert located the exact colored glass that was needed at its original manufacturer and all the stained glass was taken out and restored. The result is restored sections that are hard to detect unless you know where to look.

On the 31st Street side, a vintage pierced metal canopy over one set of sanctuary doors was cleaned up but left in place. At night when the entrance lights are lit, the pierced metal canopy reads “Welcome” on two sides and “Epworth” in the middle.

Not everything could be reclaimed, however. Roll-up doors that could divide the sanctuary into multiple rooms were too damaged to revive. Those back areas are now being built out for the architectural offices.

Attention to detail is evidently Nelson’s trademark. The sanctu-

ary’s dome had its share of water damage, but the plaster moldings have all been carefully restored.

Old blue paint on the dome panels was precisely matched to retain as much original appearance as possible. I like the way he thinks.

One element that required significant change was the property’s many levels. To make the building accessible, several levels were removed. The only structural addition was a two-story atrium and fire escape that also allowed Nelson to add an elevator off the parking lot.

A close look at the old wooden stair posts reveal carved initials that echo the past generations that walked the halls. Sadly, the walls aren’t talking, but if they could, they would entertain with all they’ve seen in Curtis Park through its many highs and lows. It seems only fitting that the Epworth Building enjoys new life as part of the area’s current revival.

Luckily, the 2016 Doors Open Denver weekend later this month, April 23rd & 24th, will provide an opportunity to peek inside Epworth and savor a great new/old contributor in the neighborhood. Don’t miss it.

Happy snapping!

– UE Y A L D VA 1 HE T

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REMINDERS A Please bring your own pitchfork or shovel, and bags or containers for loading mulch.

A Bring a tarp to cover your truck or trailer.

A Due to limited quantities, Denver residents only.

Compost sold at this site only Compost Prices are $3.75 per 1.25 cubic ft. bag (9 gal.) or $31.50 per cubic yd. (includes tax). Compost limit of 3 cubic yards or 20 bags per vehicle.

A Commercial vehicles are prohibited from taking or selling the City’s mulch or compost.

Quebec St. & 26th Ave.

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CALENDAR NEIGHBORHOOD Calendar listings are free. Local, special, free & nonprofit events are given priority. Mail to P.O. Box 18344, Denver, CO 80218 or email to: Editor@LifeOnCapHill.com.

Deadline: 20th of current month for next month’s listings. Note that LIFE is published on the first Wednesday of the month. Readers are advised to call the appropriate number to verify dates & times. This calendar is also available at Neighborhood-Life.com.

Free bus, maps at all galleries.

Free shuttle to the Santa Fe walk, below. Call 303-573-5095.

• First Friday Art Walk, Santa Fe Art District, 6th to 10th on Santa Fe. Call 303-333-2820.

• First Friday Art Walk & Free Public Reception for the Denver Artist Guild, Byers-Evans House Museum, 1310 Bannock st., 5-8 pm, call 303-620-4933 for more info.

MONTH-LONG: • The Pattern Shop Studio is pleased to participate in Denver’s 2016 Month of Printmaking (Mo’Print) with an exhibit entitled “Shark’s Ink: Collaborations II.” The show features dozens of spectacular prints by artists who have collaborated over the years with Master Printmaker Bud Shark at his Lyons studio and press. Artists include Betty Woodman, Red Grooms, Hung Liu, Robert Kushner, John Buck, and Enrique Chagoya. Exhibit runs thru May 6th. Call 303-2979831.

• Plinth Gallery, 3520 Brighton Blvd., is pleased to present, “Pins and Needles”, the figurative ceramic sculptures of local artist Marie E.v.B. Gibbons. Please join us on First Friday, April 1st for a reception with artist Marie E.v.B. Gibbons from 6-9pm. Event is free and open to the public. Exhibit

showing thru May, for more information call 303-295-0717.

• “”Escapism eScapes by Tim Schwartz”, on exhibition at Leon Gallery, 1112 E 17th Ave., and the exhibit runs Mar. 12-Apr. 24. Free admission, call 303.832.1599 for info.

• Core New Art Space, 900 Santa Fee, is proud to present new works “Action” by artist Jeff Hughes and “Between a Rock and a Hard Place” by artist Marcia Sanders. A free opening reception for Hughes and Sanders is Friday Apr. 1st from 6-9 pm in the Main gallery. The main and annex gallery shows runs thru Apr. 10. Call 303748-2188 for more info.

• “Figuratively Speaking” presented by Walker Fine Art, , 300 W. 11th, featuring Zelda Zinn, Peter Illig, Sally Stockhold, Tim Main, Gail Folwell & Michael McConnell.

Free First Friday Receptions: Apr. 1 & May 6, 5-8 pm. Exhibit runs thru May 14, call 303-355-8955.

• Gallery 1261 at 1261 Delaware St. presents “Spaces” an exhibit of specific places that captivate and engage both the artist and viewer. Exhibit runs Mar. 25-Apr. 23, Hours are Tues.-Sat, 11-6 pm, call 303-571-1261.

• Abend Gallery presents “ Nexus” guest-curated by David Gluck Apr. 8-May 7, a free opening reception is scheduled Fri., April 8, 6-9 pm. This exhibition showcases the work of artists from two seemingly dissimilar artistic disciplines: painting and tattooing.

Call 303-355-0950.

HAZEL MILLER AND THE WENDY WOO BAND are playing Denver! Hazel has been making music here for over two decades. Her powerful voice and eclectic pieces will draw you in, and you'll be singing along before you know it. The Oriental Theater, 4335 W. 44th, Apr. 8, 7:30 pm. $16. 720420-0030; theorientaltheater.com.

Night at El Centro de San Juan Diego, 2830 Lawrence. 20 volunteer lawyers, one-on-one consultations, 5:30-7 pm. First come, first serve. Spanish/English provided.

Repeated the 1st Weds. of every TUESDAYS: Young Children’s month. Call 303-573-1302.

Storytime, The Tattered Cover, • Monthly meeting of DemColfax & Elizabeth, 10:30 am. ocratic Party of Denver House Free. Different topic each week.

District 5, Colorado Democratic Call 303-322-1965, ext. 2731.

Party HQ, 789 Sherman, 7-9 pm.

• “Book Babies,” a language Repeated 1st Weds. of every enrichment program for babies month, varying location. Call age six to 23 months, 10:30 am, 303-830-8242.

Children’s Library of the Denver • Rotary Club of Five Points Public Library, 14th & Broadway. meets 1st Wed, 6-7 pm, varying Call 720-865-1306. locations, New members welcome!

FRIDAYS: Bilingual Storytime at Call 720-891-0843 for informathe Ford Library, 28th & High, tion.

10:30 am. Call 720-865-0920.

• Learn To Meditate at KMC Downtown at 1336 Glenarm Place is a proven way to overcome stress and keep a positive, FRIDAY, APR. 1: First Friday Art relaxed and creative attitude Walk in the Golden Triangle MuseWEDNESDAY, APR. 6: Free Legal to life. Kadam Lucy James will um District. explain the basics of meditation and how to get started. Free admission, 7-8:30 pm, http:// meditationincolorado.org/ learn-to-meditate-denver/ THURSDAY, APR. 7: Monthly meeting of Parents & Friends of Lesbians & Gays (PFLAG), 6:30 pm, Montview Blvd. Presbyterian Church, 1980 Dahlia. Repeated 1st Thurs. of every month with Explore yourself at Denver’s most unique charter high school.a different topic. Call 303-5735861.

Explore yourself at- Denver’s most unique charter high school.

Project-based rigorous instruction - Project-based rigorous instruction - Virtual reality career exploration • Macedonia Kinship Care - Virtual reality career exploration - Personalized learning Group, 1-3 pm at Macedonia - Personalized learning - Small-school setting Baptist Church, 3240 Adams. For Explore yourself at Denver’s most unique charter high school.

- Small-school setting relatives raising children. Repeat- Project-based rigorous instruction We’re enrolling students NOW for ed 1st Thurs. of every month.

We’re enrolling students NOW for the 2016/2017 school year.

- Virtual reality career exploration the 2016/2017 school year.

• Monthly Downtown Demo• OPEN HOUSE, April 30 at our - Personalized learning • OPEN HOUSE, April 30 at our cratic Forum Breakfast, 6:45-8 Barrett Campus: 2900 Richard Allen Ct. NEW BARRETT LOCATION Barrett Campus: 2900 Richard Allen Ct. NEW BARRETT LOCATION

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WORKSHOPS, LECTURES & MEETINGS

DESIGN FUTURE DESIGN YOURYOUR FUTURE

DESIGN YOUR FUTURE - Small-school setting Call us at 303-893-0805 Call us at 303-893-0805 for more information. for more information.

We’re enrolling students NOW for the 2016/2017 school year.

• OPEN HOUSE, April 30 at our NEW BARRETT LOCATION Call us at 303-893-0805 for more information.

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am, Le Grand Bistro, 1512 Curtis.

Buffet $15. Public welcome. Repeated 1st Fri. of the month.Call 303-861-8050 FRIDAY, APR. 8: GOP Monthly Breakfast at Pete's Greek Town Cafe, 2910 Colfax. Great speakers & conservative camaraderie.

Please RSVP, so we can plan appropriately. No need to pay in advance, but please order breakfast to support Pete's. Individual checks. Be there 7 am, order by 7:20 am so speaker is not interrupted. Repeated 2nd Fri. of the month. On-line registration required.

SATURDAY, APR. 9: Workday at Gilpin’s Garden, Gilpin Montessori Academy, 2949 California Street. All day.

SATURDAY, APR. 9: Beginning Genealogy class, the Denver Public Library, 13th & Broadway, Gates Conference Room, Level 5, 1:30-4 pm (register at 1 pm). Repeated 2nd Sat. of every month.

Free. Call 720-865-1821.

MONDAY, APR. 4 & 18: Skyline Toastmasters, 6:30 pm, Kephart Architecture, 2555 Walnut. Visitors welcome. Repeated the 1st & 3rd Mon. of every month. Call 303-778-0064.

WEDNESDAY, APR. 13 & 27: Monthly meeting of Assistance League of Denver, 14th & Josephine, 10 am. Repeated 2nd & 4th Wed. of every month. 2nd Wed. is lunch w/entertainment, 4th Wed. is Bingo w/ lunch. Call 303-322-5205.

THURSDAY, APR. 14: Active Minds, Chocolate. Join Active Minds at 6:45-7:45 pm as we describe how extremely bitter cacao

www.ventureprep.org

Barrett Campus: 2900 Richard Allen Ct. Denver, CO 80205

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SWALLOW HILL MUSIC is pleased to present Loudon Wainwright III. This iconic standard-bearer of folk music continues to be a troubadour of real life; his lyricism not waning with age. 'Haven't Got the Blues Yet' is Wainright's 26th album! 71 E. Yale, Apr. 10, 7 pm. $32/$34. 303-777-1003; swallowhillmusic.org.

9 beans are transformed into one of the world's most sought after flavors and tell chocolate stories such as the rise of the luxury chocolate industry in Switzerland and the origins of the Hershey company. Sam Gary Library, 2961 Roslyn St. free admission, No RSVP required.

MONDAY, APR. 18: Monthly meeting of the Denver Garden Club, 7 pm, 1556 Emerson. Member Colo. Federation of Garden Clubs. All are welcome. Repeated 3rd Mon. of every month. Call 303-320-5983.

THURSDAY, APR. 21: Monthly meeting of Financially Fit Females, 6 pm. First meeting free, location & topic change monthly, 3rd Thurs. of month. Call 303993-3939.

SATURDAY, APR. 16: Colorado House District 8 Democrats, 10 am-noon, Park Hill Library, 4705 Montview. Repeated 3rd Sat. of every month. Call 720-220-6876.

• Reversing Autoimmune Disease with Dr. Jens Hagen, 11:00am-noon, Natural Grocers, 1433 Washington Street. Dr. Hagen is a naturopathic doctor who specializes in autoimmune disease. Call 303-356-8284. Free Admission.

TUESDAY, APR. 26: Denver Metro Young Republicans holds its General Meetings and Happy Hours on the fourth Tuesday of each month, starting at 5:30 p.m. with an informal social hour. The official meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and features a speaker or panel discussion. Cap City Tavern,

1247 Bannock Street. For information call 720-931-8888.

WEDNESDAY, APR. 13: The Citizens' Climate Lobby meets monthly, every second Wed, at the First Unitarian Society of Denver, 1400 Lafayette St, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm. For information call 303-322-0079. Letter writing (to Members of Congress) takes place monthly, every fourth Wed., at Hooked on Colfax (3213 E. Colfax) coffee shop 6:30 pm.

• La Leche League of Denver meets 2nd Wed. of the month, Blair-Caldwell Library, 2401 Welton, 12:30 pm. Call 720-8652115.

TUESDAY, APR. 26: Active Minds, NASA and the Future of Space Exploration. Join Active Minds at 5-6 pm for a look at the future of manned and robotic space travel at this pivotal juncture. Tattered Cover, 2526 E Colfax, free admission, No RSVP required, 303-322-7727.

SUNDAYS: Capoeira Angola Introductory Class, Mercury Cafe, 22nd & California, 10:30 am. Free.

Other classes available. Call 303294-9258.

• Tibetan Buddhist Meditation introduction to NgonDro, 9:30-10:30 am, Mercury Cafe, 22nd & California. Free, other classes available. Call 303-3225874.

• Meditation and Kirtan. Every Sunday at 4 pm at 854 Pearl Street. Free & Childcare provided.

For more info call Ed 720-8109071.

MONDAYS: Bridge Group, 12:30

SILENCE! THE MUSICAL. If you couldn't bring yourself to watch The Silence of the Lambs, maybe this raucous parody will be easier to digest. The show was awarded Best Musical at FringeNYC in 2005. Now, the Equinox Theatre is delighted to bring the regional premiere to Denver. The Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo, Apr. 8-30, Fri./ Sat., 7:30 pm. $20/$25. 303-477-9984; EquinoxTheatreDenver.com.

- 3:30 pm, & Movie Night Mondays, 6:30 pm, both at Coffee at the Point, 27th & Welton, free garage parking. Free Adm. Call 303-955-2237.

• Free Zumba classes, 6 - 7 pm, Manual High School cafeteria, 28th & Williams (enter on south side). Free, offered

by YMCA Community Programs Branch. Call 303-292-2281.

TUESDAYS: Denver Chess Club, 6:30-10:30 pm, basement of West First Ave. Presbyterian Church, 120 W. 1st. Call 720-318-6496.

• Moderate Yoga, St. Paul United Methodist Church, 1615 Ogden, 6-7:15 pm. Fee charged.

Call 303-818-4181.

• Argentine Tango, practice & lessons, Turnverein Event Center, 1570 Clarkson, 6:30-10:30 pm.

Free, Call 303-710-2250.

• “Meditation at Noon,” a free, 30-minute, guided meditation, KMC Colorado, 1081 Marion. Call 303-813-9551.

• Classic Film Series at Denver Central Library, Free on Level B2 Conference Center at 7-9:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.

WEDNESDAYS: Kiwanis Club of Denver,12-1:30 pm, Maggiano’s at the Denver Pavilions, 16th & Glenarm. Program varies weekly.

• Rotary Club of Five Points,

6 - 7pm. Varying locations for meetings and service projects.

New members are welcome. 720891-0843.

THURSDAYS: Fillmore Community Network, focuses on sustainability, 7:30-9 am, 1633 Fillmore, 1st floor conference room. Location changes monthly.

Call 303-399-2100.

• Beginning Computers, Ford-Warren Library, 28th & High, 6-7 pm. Free. Call 720-8650920 • Cherry Creek Toastmasters, 7-8:30 am, Temple Emanuel, 1st & continued on page 10

10 CALENDAR Continued from 9 Grape. Call 303-399-9901.

• Conquer the fear of public speaking at Body Shops Toastmasters, noon, Colo. Dept. of Health, 4300 Cherry Creek Dr. South, 2nd flr. Call 303-398-4735.

• Denver Socrates Cafe, 7 pm, Trinity United Methodist Church, 18th & Broadway. Discussions on a variety of important topics. Free.

Call 303-861-1447.

• Downtown Denver Euchre Club, All Fired Up, 1135 Bannock, 7 pm (promptly). Call 303-825-1995.

FRIDAYS: Daybreak Toastmasters, 7-8:30 am, 1525 Sherman, Room B-70. Cat got your tongue? Public speaking & more. Call Scott after 6 pm at 303-467-9294.

• “Thrillspeakers” Toastmasters, noon-1 pm, Webb building, 201 W. Colfax, Room 4i4. Call 720209-2896.

• Denver IDEA Cafe, a business start-up & brainstorming group, 2 pm, Panera Bread, 1350 Grant.

Guest speakers. Free. Call 303-8611447.

• Community Awareness Program, Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL), 1st Saturdays, 99 W. 12th, 6-8 pm. Call 303-8444000, ext. 8.

•“Writers’ Church,” a “drop-in writer's’ jam” hosted by Curious Theatre Co. the 1st Sun. of every month, The Acoma Center, 1080 Acoma, 10:30 am-1 pm. Free. Call

303-623-0524.

• Lunchtime Meditation at KMC Downtown at 1336 Glenarm Place. Take 30 minutes in the middle of the day to connect to your heart, cultivate inner peace and happiness, and clarify your intention for the day. Free on Friday’s, 12:15-12:45 pm, http://meditationincolorado.org/ classes-kmc-colorado/meditation-noon/ • Happiness Hour at KMC Downtown at 1336 Glenarm Place consists of a short talk and guided relaxing meditation to help us increase our peaceful good heart.

Free on Friday’s, 5:15-6:15 pm, http://meditationincolorado. org/classes-kmc-colorado/happiness-hour/ SATURDAYS: Drum-Making Circle, Unity on the Avenue, 4670 E. 17th, 11 am - 2pm.

Call 303-320-3901.

TUESDAYS & THURSDAYS: “Community Learning Plaza”, free computer access for language class practice, job searches, homework help & more, Ford-Warren Library, 28th & High, 5-7:30 pm. Free. Call 720-865-0920.

WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS: 16th & Josephine Recycling Center open 3-6 pm Weds. & 9 am-12 pm Sat. WEEKDAYS: Free “Computer Basics” classes at the Denver Public Library’s “Community Technology Center,” 13th & Broadway, Level 4, varying afternoon times. Large variety of classes & skill levels . Call

720-865-1706.

• Free Afternoon Lectures at the Denver Public Library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Level Five in the Gates Reading Room. Lectures begin at 1:30 p.m. and are free and open to the public. For information call 303-839-1671.

•Guided Meditation, Denver Ashram, 1559 High, 6 -6:30 am.

Free, donations Welcome. Call 303885-6727.

SENIORS SATURDAY, APR. 9: Free Day for seniors 64+ at the Denver Firefighters Museum, 1326 Tremont Pl. Repeated 2nd Sat. of every month. Call 303-892-1436.

THURSDAY, APR. 14: Seniors’ Book Discussion Group discusses contemporary fiction available in book & audio formats, 1-2:30 pm in the Level Four Meeting Room of the Denver Public Library, 13th & Broadway. Repeated 2nd Thurs. of every month. Call 720-8651312.

TUESDAYS: Seniors’ Bible Study, 9:30 am at the Salvation Army Red Shield Center, 29th & High.

Call 303-295-2107

RELIGION SUNDAYS: Worship Celebration 10:30 am, Buddhist Christian Interspiritual Service 5 pm, St. Paul Church, 1615 Ogden. Call 303-832-4929.

• Catholic Mass, 6:30, 8:30 & 10:10 am, 12:30 & 6:30 pm, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Colfax & Logan. Call 303-831-7010.

• Church in the City-Beth Abraham, 16th & Gaylord, 8:30 & 10:45 am. Call 303-322-5733.

• Catholic Mass for lesbian, gay, bisexual & transgender Catholics, 5 pm, Dignity Denver, 1100 Fillmore. Call 720-515-4528.

• Center for Spiritual Living Denver, Sunday celebrations: meditation 9:30 am, service & children’s church 10 am, 2590 Washington. Call 303-832-5206.

• L2 Church, 1477 Columbine, Sunday morning worship service at 9 am. For more info info@ L2today.com • Church of Scientology, Sunday service 11 am-12 pm. All are welcome.

2340 Blake St, Denver 80205.

Lots of parking off of Park & Blake.

• Episcopal Church of the Holy Redeemer, 2552 Williams, 10 am. Call 303-831-8963.

• Interfaith Devotions, 10:00-11:30am. All are welcome to reflect together on the scriptures of the world's faiths. Sponsored by the Baha'is of Denver.

Baha'i Center of Metro Denver, Bayaud & Grant. Call 303-7446456.

• Chapel Service, Red Shield Community Center, 2915 High, 11 am (all age Sunday School 10 am). Call 303-295-2107.

• Catholic Mass, 7:30 & 10 am, St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, 23rd & York. Call 303322-8042.

• St. Paul Lutheran, Lutheran Mass at 8 & 10:30 am, 16th & Grant. Call 303-839-1432.

• The Center of Light, “A Mystical Sunday Service,” 9:30 am silent meditation, 10 am service,, 23rd & Forest. Workshops & classes also offered. Call 303-9137053.

MONDAYS: Grant Avenue Street Reach Meal, after 9 am, St. Paul Lutheran, 16th & Grant. Call 303839-1432.

WEDNESDAYS: Weekly Bible Discussions, 11:30 am-12:30 pm, Christian Science Metropolitan Reading Room, 16th & Larimer.

Call 303-534-3571.

• Testimony Meeting, 7:30 pm, First Church of Christ, Scientist, 1401 Logan. Call 303-8391505.

THURSDAYS: Morning Eucharist, 7 am, St. Paul Lutheran, 1600 Grant. A 30-minute liturgy of Word & Sacrament. Call 303839-1432.

• Choral Evensong in traditional English style, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 2015 Glenarm, 5:30-6 pm. Call 303296-1712.

• Buddhist & Non-Sectarian Meditation, 7-9 pm at Vipassana Towers, 330 Acoma. American Theravada & non-sectarian. Free.

Also every other Tuesday. Call 303-778-8883.

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11

SCHOOLS

By Linda Katchen, Ph. D. April begins the last lap of the 2016 school year and spring is in full swing. For most students, spring break is over. PARCC testing is completed for this year and juniors are getting ready to take the ACT tests. Parents have met one last official time with teachers to discuss their children’s progress and seniors are fighting off cases of senioritis. Days are longer and warmer. Summer will be here before you know it!

There will be no school in DPS on Mon., Apr. 11 for a Planning and Assessment Day! Cole Arts and Science Academy (CASA), 3240 Humboldt, is in the process of requesting that the DPS Board consider allowing CASA to become part of an Innovation Zone. Principal Jen Jackson sent the following letter to the CASA community.

“Over the past couple of months, you have likely heard me present my ideas to build on the successes of Cole Arts and Science Academy and continue to improve student achievement. I am extremely proud of the gains our students have made on the DIBELS early literacy assessment. CASA students’ reading growth on the assessment ranked in the top ten for all elementary schools in the state. In addition, CASA continues to out-perform schools with similar risk factors, such as poverty and the number of English language learners. While we have exceeded expectations in those areas, there are other academic areas where our standardized test scores, like the PARCC test, have not been as high as they should be.

I know we have an excellent staff at CASA. Each of our teachers is dedicated to this community and is working diligently to give your children the best education and future possible. In order to continue to improve the academic achievement, my proposal is for CASA to join an Innovation Zone.

In short, becoming a part of this zone would provide our school more autonomy from Denver Public Schools than we currently have. While CASA would still be part of the district, we would select and pay for district services that are most useful to us. Because we would not be using all of the district services, the school would receive more funding for each student. Our plan is to use that additional funding to customize learning for the children in this community. For instance, if approved, I would like an additional adult in each classroom to increase the amount of attention and individualized instruction each child receives.

My sincere hope is that CASA families support the proposal to move forward with an Innovation Zone. The Board of Education will review the Zone proposal at its meeting on April 7. Feel free to

contact me with your questions, feedback and ideas.”

To contact CASA, call 720-4239120.

Gilpin Montessori, 2949 California, is considering solutions that stem from declining enrollment.

“Next school year we will see changes in our staffing. Due to a decline in our school budget and enrollment, we will reduce a classroom at each level- Primary, Lower Elementary and Upper Elementary. We will have three primary classrooms, four lower elementary classrooms and three upper elementary classrooms. Our average class in Primary and Upper Elementary will be 26 students, and 20 students in lower elementary.

Efforts continue to be underway to increase enrollment. We conduct school tours on a regular basis. We have radio and newspaper ads, and outreach efforts on social media. We will soon begin contacting potential families with flyers via mail and door to door visits. Parents can play a major part by recruiting friends and family members to attend Gilpin!”

Gilpin Montessori provides information for people who are still selecting the best school for their children and who want to know more about what a Montessori education is. Choice In second round starts March 21. If you are still searching the best option for your child, you may want to look into Montessori education.

Is Montessori Education Right For Your Children?

Montessori offers gifted children ways to further excel. Starting at 3 years old in mixed age classrooms, your child's early years have best potential to be so much more than a place to socialize, sing, color, and learn the alphabet and colors.

Highly sequential language and math activities build on previous knowledge while expanding a child's individual progress.

Montessori reverses the philosophy "Everything in its Place".

Montessori children enjoy exploring in very tactile ways, but children of this age also love order. This is one reason that Montessori classrooms are extremely organized. As they are learning, young children are constantly classifying objects and experiences.

For more information on how to choice into Gilpin Montessori, please contact our office at 720424-7144.”

Shake off the winter blues and join Gilpin Montessori in their annual Grounds Workday on Apr. 9 beginning at 9 am. Light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Coolers of lemonade and water will be set up to refill your reusable bottles as you work. Community members, business owners, parents and friends are welcome to join us as we remove weeds and open the gardens.

There are two ways to participate. The morning session is from

9 am-noon and includes weeding fence lines, removing weeds, trees and shrubs, building garden composting areas and opening the garden. An all-day session includes rebuilding the Gilpin Farm. Bring your garden tools and gloves, reusable water bottle and coffee cup, hat, closed toe work shoes. Dress in layers depending on the weather and meet on the playground.

Speaking of Montessori, Montessori Academy of Colorado (MAC), 2500 Curtis, will hold Toddle Parent/Teacher Conferences, from Mon., Apr. 4-Fri., Apr. 8. There is no school on Mon., Apr. 11 & Fri., Apr. 29.

Polaris Program at Ebert, 410 Park Ave. West, has scheduled PARCC testing for grades 3-5 from Apr. 5-Apr. 21. On Thurs., Apr. 14, Polaris will host a Love of the Arts Community Event from 5-8 pm.

A Staff Appreciation event will take place on Weds., Apr. 20 at 11 am. Also that day, a New Family Welcome Event is scheduled at 5 pm. Polaris is participating in the bag credit program at Whole Foods Market on South Colorado through Apr. 10. Take your reusable bags and donate the credit to Polaris!

Denver School of Science and Technology (DSST): Cole High School, 3240 Humboldt, and Middle School, 1350 E. 33rd, are looking for teachers for next year.

“The 2016-17 hiring season is upon us and we're seeking out talented people to join our team.

DSST Public Schools recognizes that one of the best sources for new team members is referrals from our supporters. For the 2015-2016 school year, our supporters referred 46% of new team members and over 30% of submitted applications came from referrals. Next

year alone, the DSST network will be adding three high school grade level teams and two middle school grade level teams.”

Spread the word if you know of wonderful candidates who could flourish at DSST. Manual, 1700 E. 29th, has some special news to report. Manual has been chosen as a Comcast Cares Day recipient. Manual has been selected as a service project site for this year's Comcast Cares Day. On Sat., Apr. 30, the Comcast community will show its support for the school in a meaningful way: More than 150 Comcast employees, their families, friends, and partners will roll up their sleeves and tackle projects building-wide. Thank you Comcast.

Support Special Olympics and Manual's Project UNIFY program by donating to the Manual Polar Plunge Team. The team jumped into a pool of freezing cold water to show their support for this program, and are accepting donations. Contact the school to see how you can donate to help Special Olympics and Project Unify at 720423-6300.

Manual is delighted to announce

a partnership with City Prep Radio.

Students now have the opportunity to become broadcasters as they provide play-by-play commentary live during Manual games. Students, parents, alumni, grandparents, community members, and sports fans alike are able to access Thunderbolt sports broadcasts through live stream coverage of events via an app, which is available on Apple and Android devices.

Students enrolled in Manual’s groundbreaking Med School program have the opportunity to choose one of four medical pathways, including veterinary science, forensics, and surgery. Additionally, Med School students have access to concurrent enrollment programs, which allow them to enroll at college-level classes and earn credits at no cost. Prospective students who need more information can call 720-423-6300 or visit: manualhs.org/apps/pages/index. jsp?uREC_ID=291883&type=d.

Students and their families are heading into an exciting time of the year!

Questions, comments or pictures: Contact Linda Katchen at drschoolscoop@gmail.com.

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12 BUSINESS Continued from 6 tarian (now 100% vegan) eatery’s strong reputation. Roberts worked as a manager at City ‘O City before taking over from Watercourse founder Dan Landes.

“He was looking for someone to come in and keep Watercourse (as) Watercourse. It made a lot of sense that he handed the torch off to me. The transition was really smooth,” she said.

So has been working with her mom and Steve.

“We knew we wanted to do something together. We knew we wanted it to be vegan,” Roberts acknowledged.

They considered a grocery store, a bike hostel, and other options.

Instead they ended up running a well-established business. Still changes were due.

New paint, new art, and new equipment have been added. A new espresso machine was fired and Huckleberry roasters were brought in to supply the beans.

Eventually earlier am hours will be

added to draw the morning coffee crowd.

There’s also a new hotel and restaurant liquor license, which adds spirits to the wine and beer offerings. That addition could yield slightly later closing hours by this summer.

Justin Arecchi is the new lead chef. He helped create a new menu that launched this past January.

“We wanted to add an element that was a little more refined. We have a number of new appetizers and entrees focused on vegetables that are not fried,” Roberts said.

“If you want to focus on healthy eating, you can do that.”

One new offering is Beet Wellington, a roast vegetable wrapped in sauce and filo dough that’s served atop a medley of roast veggies. It’s served only after 5 pm.

Another new offering is a milder Thai curry with rice and seasonal vegetables with your choice of protein.

“One of my favorite things is a charcuterie plate that comes with a grilled vegetable terrine. None of it is fried,” she said. That dish also includes beet avocado tartar with a

burnt orange aioli and a smoked mushroom pâté.

Roberts is proud of the fact that many of the greens come from Rebel Farms, a local hydroponics grower. It’s just another facet that motivates her to keep Landes’ original vision alive while enhancing it.

Breakfast is now served all day with a special brunch menu on the weekends served 8 am-3 pm.

Happy Hour runs from 3 pm-6 pm daily.

There’s also now a retail corner that features some local chocolates, crafts and other items. A new ‘grab ‘n go’ foods section will debut by summer.

Current hours are weekdays 11 am-10 pm, weekends 8 am-10 pm. Call 303-832-7313.

SMASH AT EXDO What are you doing April 13th?

This second Wednesday will mark the second night for SMASH – EXDO Events’ take on game night.

Started several years ago as a Ping-Pong night, SMASH has returned to RiNo after a hiatus with Ping-Pong and more. Games

include a king-sized corn hole, giant Jenga and retro video games on EXDO’s enormous LED screen (trust me, it really is huge). It will repeat every second Wednesday of the month year-round.

This event has no cover and will offer beverage deals including $5 craft cocktails and draft beer. All games at no charge except PingPong, which runs $5 per half hour per table. Later this month, RTD’s light rail will be up and running with a stop just a block away.

Currently, SMASH is a ‘21 and older’ event. If the 18 to 20-yearold crowd demonstrate interest, the venue will remain set up on second Thursdays. Exdoevents.com is the website.

CLOSURES: The Brighton Boulevard Shuffle continues as properties along this once-industrial strip changes hands for top dollar offers. For tenants, it’s often a scramble to find new digs fast when their current location is sold.

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HAPPY LEAF KOMBUCHA When I first started covering this stretch of Brighton roughly three years ago, it was still a sleepy area dotted with a handful of new ventures. One of those was Happy Leaf at 3519 Brighton, which operated the area’s first tap room/tearoom serving up housebrewed kombucha. Their first home has been sold.

Now the three-year-old venture is moving out of RiNo’s western fringe area and heading west of Federal to Edgewater. Their new address will be 5700 W. 25th.

Kombucha is a fermented tea that comes in many flavors. It’s become a beverage many fans eagerly seek out. Happy Leaf opened in November 2013 in RiNo and quickly found a fan base.

Their brews are available on tap at a number of local spots if you won’t be trekking to Edgewater.

You can access a map of retail availability at happyleafkombucha. com.

URBAN CYCLIST Also in the same building now slated for demolition is Urban Cyclist. The commuter bike shop at 3519 Brighton is moving too. However, it’s a relatively easy hop just across the street to 3434 Brighton.

The new space is slated to open April 1st. Hours are weekdays noon -8 pm, Sat. noon -5 pm & Sun. by appointment.

RINO VAPES This is the third business in the 3519 complex. As the name suggests, this venture sold e-cigs and other vaping gear. Apparently, this one’s simply closed. The number’s been disconnected.

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