Neighborhood Life – May 2016 by Life on Capitol Hill

05 16 NEW 100-YEAR WATER HAZARD FOR CITY PARK GOLFERS? By J. Patrick O’Leary It’s official: City Park Golf Course – and not the Cole neighborhood – will be the site of an area to capture and hold runoff water from severe storms. The City made the announcement in an April 6 press release. The detention area is one project within the Platte to Park Hill: Stormwater Systems improvements, and will be integrated into an updated design of the golf course and help protect some of the city’s most at-risk neighborhoods from flooding, according to the release. Planning began late last year, and construction is expected to begin on some areas in 2016 and continue through 2019. According to the city’s summaries of community meetings, residents who participated strongly supported the golf course option over Cole, but some are calling for additional options, questioning the overall project, and threatening a lawsuit. The plan is conceptual only at this point, and no work will take place until a final design is developed and approved. “Preliminary design of the water detention area in City Park Golf Course will be starting in the next few weeks and meetings will be announced soon,” said Nancy Kuhn, Director of Communications for Denver Public Works. “The design process for this water detention area, as well as the 39th Avenue open channel and recreational trail, and Park Hill Golf Club storm water detention area will include significant collaboration with the local community, golfers and others.” The meeting date had not been announced as LIFE went to press. “This detention area will not be a ‘pond’, but an area

FIVE POINTS BID GOES TO CITY COUNCIL

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At RTD 40th & Colorado station (actually 42nd & Jackson), riders should look at map to decipher how to enter, as entrance from some directions are blocked. PHOTO BY JEFF HERSCH that will be integrated into the landscape of the golf course that will be dry the vast majority of the time, but would collect and slowly release water during storm events,” Kuhn explained, and provided a photo of a water detention area at Lakewood Golf Course as an example of what it would look like. The new detention area will connect into an existing stormwater pipe that cuts through the golf course and travels along High Street, according to Kuhn. The Platte to Park Hill program is focused on nearterm improvements to better protect neighborhoods

By J. Patrick O’Leary Property owners of the Welton Street Corridor will take their petition to form a Business Improvement District (BID) to city council later this month. The Five Points Business Improvement District will provide maintenance, security and marketing for a 10-block stretch of Welton between 20th & 30th & Downing, funded by a 10-mil property tax generating about $157,000 annually – provided that voters approve the tax in November. A petition signed by owners of more than 50 percent of property on the corridor was to be filed with the city clerk before May 6, according to Tracy Winchester, Executive Director of Five Points Business District – a separate, pre-existing community organization. As LIFE went to press, a committee consisting of community leaders and board members of the FPBD was still collecting signatures from the 42 owners of 88 parcels included in the BID’s boundaries. “We’re going for everybody, we don’t want anybody to think they were not part of the process,” said Winchester. “If we get

north and east of downtown, which see some of the worst flooding during storms, according to city presentations. It includes a Globeville Landing Outfall drainage design and park re-design; an open channel and recreational trail along 39th Avenue; and two temporary stormwater detention areas, one at Park Hill Golf Club and the other at either the Cole neighborhood or City Park Golf Course. The city, in presentations, has said the flood-protection, drainage and storm-runoff projects are being continued on page 16

65 or 70 percent I feel it would be well-endorsed.” The committee has already drafted an initial operating plan and budget, and is working on an initial slate of directors, which will require approval of the mayor. If the petition has sufficient signatures and the filing is timely, a presentation will be made before city council’s Business Development Committee on May 10, with a first reading before council May 23, and a second reading and public hearing on May 31. If passed, it will begin life on June 3. Voters will still have to approve the proposed 10-mill levy in November to provide future funding. BIDs are government-like organizations formed by property owners to enhance the environment of a business district or neighborhood with services and improvements. The services and improvements are in addition to, and do not replace, existing city services. continued on page 2

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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. @khammany 2. Ainissa Espada, @puchungola 3. Andrea Corbi Fein, @acfein 4. Mj Miller, @mjpdx45 5. Kate Moore, @k8lux

Walt and Emma of work hard bagging mulch on a cold snowy day in April on Free Tree Giveaway Day .

AFTER STONEWALLING, DENVER ZOO FINALLY AGREES TO UNRESTRICTED CITY AUDIT By Keith Lewis According to the Denver City Auditor’s Office, the Denver Zoo has been stonewalling the City’s efforts to audit the Zoo since last November, before finally agreeing on April 12 to full cooperation with the audit. A 1998 Cooperative Agreement authorizes the City to audit the Zoo due to the Zoo’s management of city-owned property within City Park and the Zoo’s funding through several public resources. Initially on December 4, a Zoo spokesperson denied that it was even subject to the audit provisions, according to the City Auditor’s Office. Later, however, the Zoo said it would submit to an audit under certain conditions. The City’s Auditor, Timothy O’Brien asked Mayor Michael Hancock to declare the Zoo in default of the Cooperative Agreement, but the Zoo’s board finally agreed to an unrestricted audit before it reached that level. One dispute between the City Auditor’s Office and the Zoo was that Zoo management wanted to remain present as auditors interviewed Zoo employees. O’Brien wrote that request is “not consistent

with audit industry standards” in an April 4 press release. “Obviously the City cannot tolerate a rogue agency: when you accept public money, you have to accept the oversight that comes with it,” declared O’Brien. The Denver Zoological Foundation received millions from the City of Denver General Fund and also public funds from the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), which directs a portion of statewide sales tax revenue to science, art and cultural nonprofit venues. Certain questions have been raised about the Zoo’s multi-million dollar plan to transform animal waste into energy, which was ditched last September. Before abandoning the project, the Zoo had already spent $3.7 million and still faced obstacles in perfecting the gasification technology. The Zoo has now agreed to an unrestricted audit by the city, specifically agreeing to provide the Office of the City Auditor with “(1) access to all Foundation and Zoo documents and records, (2) access to an on-site area to work, (3) unsupervised access to interview Foundation and

Zoo employees, (4) and all other cooperation the Auditor determines is necessary to achieve audit goals,” according to the City Auditor’s Office. “Although it took a while for the Zoo to come to this realization, my office is pleased to have the opportunity to examine the records and operation of the Denver Zoological Foundation and related entities,” said O’Brien. The Zoo released its own statement, “Denver Zoo remains committed to operating with transparency throughout the review. We are dedicated to collaborating with Auditor O’Brien and his staff through this process,” said Denver Zoo President and CEO Shannon Block. Some taxpayers are unhappy about funneling public funds to large, successful operations like the Zoo. Those science, art and cultural facilities designated as Tier I, including the Zoo, receive 65% of the SCFD funds, which leaves some taxpayers wondering if that is public money well spent. It appears that the City Auditor’s Office may soon make that determination.

FIVE POINTS

The BID will also try to insure the safety of the neighborhood. Winchester said they are looking at using private security instead of off-duty police for cost savings, as is done on the 16th Street Mall. “Estimated start-up costs of $40,000-$50,000 – mostly legal fees – and initial operating costs will be picked up by grants from the city’s Office of Economic Development,” said Winchester. She described the funding – using federal dollars – as “start-up money” to begin the revitalization process for a neighborhood. Part of that is setting up and paying for a “business support office” until the business community can fund it. Although a BID can have a perpetual existence, the petitioners opted for a 10-year cap. “I think it makes everyone feel comfortable that they are not signing their life away,” she said.

The BID’s constituents can evaluate its success at the end of that time, and either go through a petition process to extend its life or let it expire. “But you don’t need to wait 10 years to dissolve one.” The new BID will not replace FPBD, according to Winchester, but “… it will take the place of being the advocate of businesses along the Welton Corridor, and take it to the next level.” The FPBD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization formed in 2009, focusing on business development, cultural promotion & preservation, and “the greater good” in the Welton corridor, but it is not a BID. And although its official title is the Five Points Historic District, the city’s historic district designation covering the stretch of Welton between 24th & 30th is not related. FPBD has neither the funds nor mission to provide services or make improvements.

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BIDs can provide capital improvements, marketing, maintenance, economic development, public safety, planning, special events and parking management, and are funded through assessments on commercial property. Maintenance, security and marketing were identified as the top three services property owners wanted from the BID. “Maintenance is the same that all other BIDs do – sweeping sidewalks, power washing, installing and emptying trash receptacles… maintaining trees,” Winchester explained. “The kind of stuff individual property owners were responsible for in front of their building.” Other responsibilities will include cleaning tree wells, removing graffiti when the city doesn’t, and snow removal.

St. Paul United Methodist Church, 16th & Ogden, built in 1910 was designed in the neo-classical style by architect James B. Hyer at a cost of $100,000. Its impressive stained glass windows and timeless beauty lives on today. PHOTO BY DANI SHAE THOMPSON

ST. PAUL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH CLOSING AFTER 156 YEARS By Nancy Foster Life will go on for the parishioners of St. Paul United Methodist Church, yet the news that their church will close May 22 has been a hard hit to take for this small, progressive community of faithful worshipers, as they’ve watched while the number of attendees at their church has diminished significantly over the past several years. Pastor Jessica Rooks, the church’s minister since July 1, 2015, also serves as the minister of Cameron United Methodist Church in Platte Park. Rooks said, “The membership at St. Paul has dropped to 35 persons while the average attendance at the Sunday morning service attracts between 17 and 20 participants.” Rooks said the slide started towards the end of Rev. Toni Cook’s tenure between 1989-2011

and seemed to have an uptick when Rev. Jessie Boyce followed Cook, but then leveled off a bit but has continued to decline. Boyce served the church for four years prior to Rooks’ arrival. Organized in 1859, the St. Paul congregation erected its first building in downtown Denver in 1860 at 14th & Arapahoe. It was the first building in Denver to have been built for solely religious purposes according to church records, but didn’t take the name St. Paul until 1887. Built by a group of Southerners whose sympathies supported slavery during the Civil War, it was known as the Methodist-Episcopal Church South. Many of the parishioners who were physically fit, and their leader, the Rev. William Bradford, left Denver to fight for the Southern cause.

Like many places in the West at that time, Denver was a rough and tumble place. Gold had been discovered in 1858 along the Platte River where shacks and saloons emerged and the growing city was filled with opportunists and adventure seekers while Native Americans still roamed the High Plains. Although the Intercontinental Railroad didn’t come through Denver, it brought more settlers west and like other Western enclaves, Denver’s population flourished. St. Paul built several other church homes downtown before moving to 16th & Ogden in 1910 where the church bought four lots for $7,400 and began building the current edifice. By that time, downtown had become a commercial area and Capitol Hill continued on page 14

seven miles of rivers, lakes and bridges (including Sloan’s Lake), through Lakewood, along Colfax, and through downtown Denver. A qualifier for the Boston Marathon, the Colfax Marathon begins at 6 am, Sun., May 15 in City Park, 3201 E. 17th, at the east side of Ferrill Lake. The time limit is six hours and registration is $135 until May 8, when the price goes up to $145. The Half Marathon runs through the Denver Zoo, various Denver neighborhoods, along Colfax and through the Aurora Arts District and through Aurora Fire Station #1. The Half Marathon begins at 6:45 am, May 15 in City Park, where the Marathon begins, and has a time limit of four hours. Registration fees are $115 until May 8 and $125 after that. The Urban 10 Miler is the same course as the last 10 miles of the Full Marathon. Runners speed

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COLFAX MARATHON RECEIVES NATIONWIDE ATTENTION By Jason McKinney The Colfax Marathon has hit the big time. Featured in Runner’s World last year as “1 of 10 Marathons to Run” and mentioned again in 2016 as “1 of 10 Great Marathons for First Timers,” the Marathon has become a popular event that attracts people from all over the country. This year’s seven races will be held on Sat., May 14 & Sun., May 15. Yes, you read that correctly. There will be seven races, which include the Marathon, Half Marathon, Urban 10 Miler, Marathon Relay, Corporate Cup Relay, Government Cup Relay, and the Bellco Colfax 5K. The 26.2 mile Marathon starts and ends at City Park, passes through Denver Fire Station #1, where firefighters and police officers cheer runners on, and also twice through Sports Authority Field at Mile High, where you can see yourself on the Jumbotron. The course goes along

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through downtown Denver, Confluence Park, along Cherry Creek, 17th Avenue and end at City Park. The Urban 10 Miler starts on May 15, between 8 am-9:30 am (depending on your assigned wave) at the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design, 1600 Pierce, Lakewood. The time limit is 2 ½ hours and the registration fee is $89 until May 8 and then goes up to $99. The Marathon Relay Team is a five-member team event that runs the same course as the full marathon and has three divisions: Open (anyone can do it), Corporate Cup (employee teams), and Government Cup (government employee teams). The relay events begin at the same day, time, and location as the Full Marathon and the time limit for these is six hours. Registration fees are $299 per team until May continued on page 7

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It’s 100% float at Samana, a new business in RiNo near Larimer & 27th. Owners, Paul and The concept has been around for decades, but this is the area’s first Monkey Bar Gym. Located Heather Clift, show off their single pod chamber, but the couple also offers larger ‘float cabins’ in the former Moto Voto space on Curtis near 22nd, it features a wide range of classes based with 8’ ceilings for those who want more room. on functional body movements. bag area near the front doors will month at 530 E.19th in Uptown. One is even ADA accessible. accommodate boxing classes and Billed as a “cow to cone miWhen your 90-minute sesmartial arts. cro-creamery,” this new venture sion ends, there’s an After Float Housed in a 2,000 sq. ft. space features handcrafted cool treats lounge with more relaxation that now boasts level floors – a and an amazing approach to options, colored glasses and a must for exercise – Vaughn and artisanal ice cream. mural painted by Samana’s first business partner Christopher It’s the culmination of a major customer. Holton did much of the build out passion for owners Josh Gertzen The couple wants everyone themselves. and Geraldine Kim. Kim lived in to benefit from float therapy. There are now showers. Half San Francisco for a time where They’ve created a 1st timer packa dozen steel beams were added Bi-Rite has enjoyed huge success. age of three sessions for $150. to reinforce the vintage strucIt’s one of her favorites. You can also share packages with Photos & Copy by J.L. Schultheis part by the loss of several close ture and also hang heavy bags. During her many travels, she friends or bank unused monthly Price friends to cancer. The Clifts A large skylight illuminates the and Gertzen found themselves sessions for up to three months wanted to create a business that center of the space and there are seeking out the best local ice 1307 26th St. in RiNo is the would help cancer patients and plans for a rooftop garden in the cream they could find in each address. The door is right next to anyone else in need of relaxnear future. town to scope out their creations. First Draft. Call 720-573-8744 or ation. Holton was an Army Ranger. Then they opted to raise that bar go online to samanafloat.com to “We are a No Wi-Fi zone,” SAMANA FLOAT Vaughn competed as a semi-pro by adding the ability to pasteurbook your first visit. Hours are 8 Heather Clift explained. Walk down the hallway leading boxer and with kettlebells. So it’s ize their own dairy products. am-8 pm daily. The business features four to Samana Float, a new float easy to deduce they’re serious In fact, Frozen Matter even floatation chambers. The concept therapy spa in RiNo, and you’ll about fitness. boasts a dairy plant license. They MILE HIGH MONKEY BAR is what was once called sensory be treated to stunning vintage Monday, Wednesday and Friday wanted the freedom to make GYM deprivation, but the Clifts prefer black and white photos from are strength-training days. their own ice cream bases. If swinging through the trees float therapy as a way to describe years past. Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday Some flavors, like their Strawis your idea of a great workout, the business. No one likes to feel NYC’s Central Park in the snow, focus on speed, martial arts or berries ‘n Cream, have higher I’ve got just the place for you. deprived. actor Steve McQueen toting a cardio workouts. water content that demands a It’s Mile High Monkey Bar Gym Treatment consists of spendgun, the Beatles in a swimming “We look for people who are different base mix. An in-house now open in the former Moto ing 90 minutes in a totally dark pool, The Stones falling off a really committed to making a pasteurization machine allows Voto moped space at 2243 Curtis. and silent space. Eleven inches ledge or the iconic Doorman change,” Vaughn said. “We want them to chart and create more “Natural training has four of 93.7-degree water and 1100 and the Dachshund. Each shot to have a very hands on procustom bases. This approach major pillars. They’re based on pounds of Epsom salts are needed is spectacular, but the real treat gram.” has clearly resonated in Uptown the basic movements we do every for each chamber. Water is is behind the door marked SaThink of it as a mutual acduring the first two weeks in day. Run, jump, crawl and climb,” filtered between sessions using Ma-Na. It’s the area’s first 100% countability plan. Someone is business. co-founder Michael Vaughn exUV light and hydrogen peroxide float-focused relaxation business. always watching your progress. “We made two weeks’ worth plained. cleaning cycles. No chlorine is “Still married after opening a There’s a membership action of ice cream and sold out in four “We’re trying to make people involved. business together,” jokes co-ownplan available that maps out the days,” Kim explained. perform better. This program is Floatation reduces gravity’s er Paul Clift. He and wife Heather classes for the first two weeks. Small batches, and local or25- years old and has amazingly pull on the body and is also cashed in their old careers in real Classes can be changed, cancelled ganic ingredients whenever possihigh performance rates and very believed to spark creativity. One estate and interior design to go or added online. The team will ble – these are just two of the low injury rates.” Samana chamber is a typical all in on a float therapy business. build a program to meet each building blocks at Frozen Matter. He laughed heartily when I pod with a lid but the remaining individual’s goals. Classes are They chose RiNo for the first loAnother is attention to detail. asked if the space has changed three are called cabins. They small; all feature fewer than 20 Frozen Matter handcrafts the cation and hope to add a second any since Monkey Bar moved feature 5’ by 5’ rooms with 8’ participants. toffee for their Hazelnut Toffee in. Gymnastic rings have been space in Fort Collins where they high ceilings to appeal to anyone The gym’s app will alert you flavor. They spared no expense suspended from one end of the now live. when it’s time for class, remind to rerun all the power lines building to the other. A heavy concerned about claustrophobia. The shift was triggered in you to check in, or sign up for before opening the former Oasis more classes. Alignment training Spa place as a creamery. That classes are available for folks who required digging out concrete need a boost, Vaughn added. floors and repouring them to “It’s so mindful and tasked on obtain a single floor level. movement and mechanics. If you The couple lives in the Highdon’t have your mechanics down, lands, but searched all over town it’s very stressful.” for the right neighborhood. With Because nutrition is a vital a decidedly adult focus on their part of training, Monkey Bar also products, they wanted to appeal teaches meal prep classes. to adults who share their passion Parking is often a challenge as well as to youngsters. Explore yourself at Denver’s most unique charter high school. in this area, but Monkey Bar has Flavors include There Will - Project-based rigorous instruction six dedicated spaces plus better Be Blood (Orange), Valrhona - Virtual reality career exploration - Personalized learning than usual on street parking Chocolate and V for Vanilla, but Explore yourself at Denver’s most unique charter high school. - Small-school setting options for members. Milehighthere are some twists, too. Milk - Project-based rigorous instruction monkeybargym.com has the full Chocolate Moon Stout is made We’re enrolling students We’re enrolling students NOW for - Virtual reality career exploration NOW class schedule. Their number is with a vanilla stout beer. the 2016/2017 school year.for the 2016/12017 30 at our - Personalized learning • OPEN HOUSE, April school year. 720-984-1303. All use Organic Valley eggs and Barrett Campus: 2900 Richard Allen Ct. NEW BARRETT LOCATION Call us at 303-893-0805 FROZEN MATTER cream. Then there’s the pineapple - Small-school setting Call us at 303-893-0805 Denver, CO 80205 www.ventureprep.org for more information. Just in time for another snowpeppercorn crumble built with for more information. storm, Frozen Matter opened last deconstructed pie ingredients We’re enrolling students NOW for

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Artisanal ice cream is the focus, but adult beverages are also on tap. Josh Gertzen, right, and Geraldine Kim launched Frozen Matter on E. 19th in Uptown to a steady stream of customers. and a peppercorn-soaked base. Or Goodtime Campfire built on a bourbon-spiked base with chocolate covered graham crackers, toasted marshmallows and – wait for it – bacon! How do you learn to tweak the ice cream base to properly balance water content, unique ingredients and alcohol? Evidently it helps to attend Penn State’s ice cream program, an intensive 125-year-old crash course in all things ice cream. Gertzen and Kim are both graduates. Shakes, floats and other beverages are on the menu too. You can sip one on a spacious north-facing patio seating 20 or more. There’s a beer float on the menu and they’re not talking root beer. Kim and Gertzen obtained a liquor license for ice cream and spirits pairings. They also have beer on tap and plan to add Prosecco sparkling wine on tap soon. That would make a neat mimosa paired with FM’s Pretty Woman sorbet. Initially, the duo planned to offer one or two vegan options, but demand has been high so that number will soon double. Lime in the cocoanut, Mexican chocolate and mango tequila sorbet should please vegan customers. This summer ice pops will also go into production with one of the area’s only commercial ice pop machines cranking out different flavors. Spoiler alert: In the back of the main counter and seating area, there’s a huge freezer door. It is not just for show so move over Williams & Graham. In fact, this cooler door is the entrance to Retrograde, a bar with a genuine speakeasy feel paired with a working business up front. Look for details and photos in June or July column. For now, let’s just say it will be a sweet spot for the adults in the area. Doors open at noon daily and Sun.-Thurs., the shop shutters at 10 pm. It’s 11 pm on weekend nights. In fact, the entire front façade will open up in warmer weather. The number is 720-6006358.

TEASE STUDIO The old location at 1070 Bannock in Golden Triangle was closed then reborn. Its new space

at 3500 Walnut next to Tracks nightclub and the EXDO Events Center is already open for business. According to the company website, the new space is twice as large, has two different studios, features 14’ poles (yes, they teach pole dance classes) and much more. Some classes suggest you wear heals, but the goal is fitness and flexibility. The list includes hammocks, hoops and barre classes. There are a variety of pole classes for all fitness levels. Also lap dance and strip tease classes. Some are labeled ‘not for the faint of heart’ and all promise to boost cardio, flexibility, strength or other body goals. Call 303-898-0535 for details or check the class schedule at teasestudio.net. You can buy a Flirt Card good for 6 classes for $100. The studio also offers one-on-one training if you’re eager to progress through the levels fast and there’s even a co-ed pole class offered several times a week.

CHANGES: THE INVENTING ROOM Last October, The Inventing Room opened at 2020 Lawrence and I was captivated. The weather was cold outside, but indoors the liquid nitrogen kept things even colder as chef Ian Kleinman and his associates whipped up ice cream and other goodies in an instant. Inspired by the inventing room in the original Willy Wonka movie (Wilder, not Depp), the Inventing Room team was off and running. I figured this venture would catch on fast, but I have to admit I have been surprised by their accomplishments in just six months. Right out of the gate, a Gobblefunk Supper Club was created. It offered 16 seats for diners and a creative outlet for the crew. “This gives us a way to introduce people to the shop and it also gives us a chance to flex our creative muscles,” said Stacey Kleinman, the company’s Director of Everything. It’s a once-a-month offering that includes a five-course meal. There’s lots of savory to sample along with the sweet; the cost is $75 per person. The meal also

The Inventing Room on Lawrence near 22nd has branched out since opening its dessert shop last fall. It now also offers a monthly Gobblefunk prix fixe dinner that includes non-sweet items like this mushroom baklava. ping liquid nitrogen concoctions are prepared before your eyes. comes paired with fun, liquid Inventing Room has perfected. I’m told these intimate dinners nitrogen-kissed cocktails. The dessert shop is open. fill up fast and I believe it. The The next of these prix fixe dinHours are Wed.-Fri., 2 pm-10 pm, Inventing Room occupies a very ners will be held on Mon., May Sat., noon-10 pm & Sun., noon-8 small footprint, but that hasn’t 16th at 7 pm. pm. The number for Gobblefunk stopped word about this sciThe May menu won’t be on reservations is 303-885-2802 or ence-driven eatery from spreadpaper for weeks yet, but the email catering@theinventingrooing far and wide. past serves as a predictor for the monline.com. “Last year the government of future. The menu for February Dubai invited us to be guests for included compressed squash the 2015 Dubai International pasta with toasted pumpkin DU JOUR HAIR SALON Food Festival. We were in Dubai seed, chayote, and sous-vide In November, I wrote just a for about two weeks, traveling to chicken. There was also a crispy brief note about Du Jour Hair a different location in the city pork belly tortilla with sour Salon, which opened last fall at every day as part of a Food Truck cream caviar, beet and ginger 2331 28th next to The Plimoth Convoy,” Kleinman said. “We sorbet to cleanse the palate, plus eatery. I’ve now obtained more made some of the same menu brown sugar-braised brisket with details for the salon and its new items we have at the shop now fruit and sweet potato. Items boutique. everyday for the festival. The like mushroom baklava have also It’s a three-chair operation last two days of the festival, we been a hit. run by Elena Padilla. She brings were stationed at Kite Beach and Those who leave room for 12 years’ experience to the task served about 2000 people each dessert are treated to a Willy and new life to a long abandoned day. It was quite an experience Wonka dessert bar – a memorable space. for us!” treat for both the young and the “The building that I'm in was Imagine what the attendees young at heart. Items like cocothought of the smoking, popnut sorbet with grilled pineapple continued on page 6

6 BUSINESS Continued from 5 empty for a really long time,” she said. It’s been vacant so long that few except neighborhood old timers would recall the last business to operate in the space. “I just added a boutique and the owner of that is Christina Huizar. It's called a Dash of Sass Boutique,” Padilla added. “She sells accessories.” The salon works with men, women and children. They also do color work, waxing and hair extensions. The phone number is 720-561-1581. Appointments can be booked online at stylistseat.com/elenapadilla. Hours are Tues.-Sat., 10 am-6 pm.

SPANGALANG BREWERY It’s always fun to drop in on a business that’s just completed its first successful year in operation. I’m often amazed by what’s changed and what’s still the same since Day One. At Spangalang Brewery in Five Points Plaza off Welton, one thing has remained a constant. This craft brewery still draws a customer or two looking for the local DMV office. “Absolutely. Still averaging a couple people a day,” said co-founder Darren Boyd. “I just met someone the other day at my doctor’s office who lives in the neighborhood and was asking all about the brewery. When I told her we were where the DMV used to be, she responded ‘Oh no they moved, that was my DMV!’ We still get that a lot.” Happily the new DMV office is adjacent to the Glenarm Rec Center a block away and you can traipse back to Spangalang for a beer after a long wait in line there. Or maybe grab that brew first to make the DMV experience more enjoyable? Boyd said the first year has been mighty memorable. “I'd say the biggest thing that came from 2015 was just the positive reaction we got from our neighbors here in Five Points, and within the brewing community. We won a gold medal for our Belgian Table Beer “Sugarfoot” at the 2015 Great American Beer Fest.” It may prove challenging to top a gold medal your first year in operation, but everyone needs goals. “As for the future, our plan

is to continue creating exciting new beers. We're expanding our barrel-aging program and have a few fun collaborations in the pipeline. We're in the final stages of getting approval for a permanent patio space in the plaza, and look forward to using it as we host more live music and special events,” he added. Spangalang – the name is an old jazz term – has received a lot of attention from beer fans around the country since its debut. The trio behind the concept earned their stripes (or suds?) at Great Divide before taking on this independent venture. They named their company Spangalang as a tribute to the area’s deep history as a jazz mecca. Spangalangbrewery.com posts details of the current lots on tap. The number’s 303-297-1276.

DENVER TOOL LIBRARY The Denver Tool Library (DTL) has just celebrated its first anniversary. DTL is a tool sharing operation where members can check out tools for do-it-yourself projects. “We have really had our hands full as we gear up for the spring. Year One was a great success. We formed and grew a tight and involved group to over 400 members with well over 2,000 tools. Now that we've established our base, Year Two will see us expanding into fun new territory,” said head tool geek Sarah Steiner. The cooperative features over 2,000 different tools to check out. All you pay is an annual $80 membership fee. Located at 555 Santa Fe (enter off the alley), DTL stocks a wide range of tools for indoor and outdoor work plus a small bike repair operation. The operation has applied for 501c3 status to help fund its long-term operation. There are workshops planned throughout the summer, including a series designed by the Denver Permaculture Guild to beautify DTL’s back lot while teaching members how to make amazing projects with repurposed materials. On May 6th, DTL will launch its first Summer Concert & Bazaar series. “We know it will be a huge success based on the excitement and willingness of local businesses, organizations and musicians who are getting involved to benefit the DTL,” Steiner added. Details of entertainment can be found on DTL’s Facebook page.

In just its first year in business, Spangalang Brewery in the 2700 block of Welton has earned gold ribbons for its brew and a whole host of fans in the area. Hours are still Tues.-Thurs., 3 pm-7 pm & Sat.-Sun., 10 am-2 pm. 720-943-4385 is the shop number.

BIG WONDERFUL It’s baaaack! Publicity about a big relocation for this warm weather weekend event was evidently prematurely. TheBigWonderful is not leaving RiNo quite yet. The original location at 26th & Lawrence is running a threeday extravaganza starting Friday, May 6th. It runs through the 9th and Saturday is (Kentucky) Derby Day. This year, there are a few changes including four additional locations in Littleton, Aurora and downtown. It’s a mix of live and canned music, beer gardens, games, vendors and miscellaneous. Sometimes it’s also a mix of parking challenges. Partnering with nearby Cervantes’ Masterpiece, there will be musical acts all summer – some with a cover charge. Details can be found at thebigwonderful.com. This year there will also be an UpDIG pop-up grocery with fresh local and organic produce, cheeses, breads, meats and other select curated items. “We’re now poised to draw additional connections between local food, vitality, community, and joy,” promised Josh Sampson, founder of TheBigWonderful.

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CLOSINGS: NIGHT BAZAAR DENVER The unveiling last October promised a permanent location for Denver’s Night Bazaar, but that didn’t last long. Bazaar has apparently vanished once more. The event re-dubbed Bazaar 2.0 based at 2450 Larimer is now totally gone. Last November, I wrote, “Founder and self-proclaimed urban alchemist Josh Sampson is thrilled to have a permanent home at 2450 Larimer for the Bazaar – one that can stand up to whatever natures throws in his path. It’s designed around local merchants, food trucks and adult beverages.” Sampson extolled the virtues of having a safe, dry and permanent location for Bazaar and stressed that the indoor vendors would be open on weekdays as well. The vendors seemed eager to send out roots. So I was stunned to get an email a month ago that read “Au Revoir, Simone. Au Revoir, PeeWee” announcing the wrap for Bazaar 2.0. Now Bazaar’s founders say this was the plan all along. “We knew from the outset that this was a short term “pop up” because the landlord has had plans for another use for the property. We had a great sixmonth run there, and now we're focused on TheBigWonderful summer schedule. We hope to have a Bazaar 3.0 location to announce for this Fall/Winter,” said partner Mark Lewis. Confused? Join the club. I tried to discover what happened to Whiskey Grade, the unique retail clothing shop with shops around the country that anchored the front of the renovated warehouse. So far, not turning up any clues. No news yet on what the old warehouse will become next.

TETON WATERS RANCH After a short stint on Brighton, Teton Waters Ranch grass-fed beef has shut its retail sales operation at 3560 Brighton. In June, the company will move its offices to the Union Station neighborhood.

While the retail operation was apparently a flash in the pan, you can still find Teton Waters products like their Jalapeno Cheddar Brats at local grocers including King Soopers, Costco, Sprouts and Natural Grocers. The office number is still 720-3404590.

EAGLE BAR DENVER After 10 years at 1475 Blake, Denver’s Eagle shut down early last month. The property directly across from the new light rail stop was sold last year to developers. The Eagle was known as an unpretentious, gay-friendly bar that encouraged everyone – gay or straight – to be themselves. It had a reputation for tolerance, self-proclaimed misfits and very stiff drinks. When news of the property sale first broke, a spokesman told me that Eagle would be moving to a new location in Spring 2016. However, posts to Facebook in April indicated that all inventory is being liquidated. The future has clouded a bit. A Facebook post dated April 12th read, “Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own pieces of the original Denver Eagle. If and when the new Eagle opens it will start with all new equipment, decor and of course new memories.” Meanwhile, Denver Wrangler is set to move into the Five Points area at E. 30 & Downing. That’s the former Tosh’s Hacienda space. Since Tosh’s closed over a decade ago, the complex has hosted numerous venues. Most recently it was Downing Street Grill and Downing Pizzeria.

POLAR NUTRITION The fitness and Herbalife meal supplements shop at 3445 E. 28th seems to be long gone. It opened in March 2015. Not sure exactly when it closed.

ZI SOUTH The eatery at 2229 Blake shut a couple months ago. Opened in spring 2012, it was a popular hangout during Rockies games. Send biz news to Jeanne@ lifeoncaphill.com

CAPITOL HILL CARE LINK IS HELPING DENVER SENIORS TO “AGE IN PLACE” By Jennifer Turner According to AARP (American Association of Retired Persons), over 90 percent of senior citizens prefer to “age in place.” This means they would rather stay in their homes as they grow older versus move to an assisted living facility, or in with family members. Some elderly people don’t have any choice other than to stay put due to limited resources and/or lack of other housing alternatives. Creating a support network of services and connections to the community to assist seniors in maintaining their independence can make it easier for them to age in place. Capitol Hill Care Link (CHCL) is one organization committed to doing just that. The mission of CHCL is “to build community and connect adults 60+ on Capitol Hill to comprehensive services, programs and resources needed to thrive at home safely and independently.” Launched in early 2015, the 501(c)(3) is funded through grants from the Colorado Health Foundation, Rose Community Foundation and Daniels Fund. It also has a partnership with SAGE (Services and Advocates for GLBT Elders) of the Rockies. The organization is based on a nationally recognized aging in place model called a NORC (Naturally Occur-

ring retirement community). CHCL staff work with residents to address their needs and provide information on available resources. Ultimately, the nonprofit is designed to be a single referral source for comprehensive senior services. The organization has relationships with community partners including health care, benefits counseling, care management and transportation providers. There are also social, educational and volunteer opportunities available through CHCL. The health and wellness of seniors is a top priority for the nonprofit. Some of the programs it provides include in-home health screenings, counseling and wellness coaching, senior exercise classes, and assistance with food and meal programs. Many seniors need help understanding the benefits available to them. Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) and LEAP (Low-Income Energy Assistance Program) are some of the programs that CHCL staff can connect seniors with. They also provide information on resources for care management, transportation and home repair assistance. The organization’s AARP weekly tax aide services were very popular in April. Another way CHCL has been

SAGE staff members, Reynaldo Mireles and Johanna Glaviano, stand on top of The GLBT Community Center at 1301. E.Colfax where Capitol Hill Care Link operates. PHOTO BY DANI SHAE THOMPSON able to assist area seniors are by helping them to file for the Elderly and Disabled Tax Rental Rebate. In order to be eligible, you must be over 65 or disabled, and either rent or own property in Denver County. Singles must earn below $15,900 and couples under $23,000 a year. There are copies of the city’s application form available at the nonprofit’s 1301 E. Colfax location as well as staff who can help people complete it.

RTD PUBLIC MEETINGS Proposed August 2016 Service Changes

continued on page 16

We want your input.

CITY COUNCIL LEADING DIFFERENTLY…. By Councilman Albus Brooks As an elected official I am frequently asked what I love most about my job, and without hesitation my reply is, “I serve the most diverse district in the greatest city in the nation. Solving urban challenges with innovative solutions is rewarding.” Usually I am then asked what the most difficult aspect of my job is. While balancing the diverse needs of the 55,000 residents in the dynamic District 9 and the city at large, the toughest part about my job has been to witness the vitriol that has taken over public discourse. I am not talking about the bristly rhetoric that has defined national politics, but about the derision that I have witnessed against individuals, community groups, and leaders. This seeping bitterness threatens to choke out all forms of respect and decency that should define public debate.

Do not be fooled into believing the false narrative that “it has never been this bad.” In fact, two of our founding political leaders once engaged in a fatal duel that ended up with Aaron Burr, sitting Vice President, killing Alexander Hamilton, former Secretary of the Treasury. Not only did one prominent political leader kill another, Vice President Burr was even acquitted! Conflict, differ-

ences, and tension have always been present in our great Union from the beginning, and are the roots of our political foundation. However, hostility and aggression can not be tolerated if we are to insure progress as a city. Tension can lead to beautiful, well-balanced solutions, and differences can be celebrated in a way where we become greater than the sum of our parts. The personal attacks that I have witnessed on social media towards community members, developers, government officials, homeless advocates and service providers have created a great divide in our city. I recognize that residents are passionate about the issues, but sometimes this deep love for Denver can be expressed in ways that are both divisive and harmful to community building. Five years ago I ran for office on the slogan of “Connecting Diverse Communities,” which resonated with people because our deepest desire is to be connected with those around us. The Mile High City is growing, changing, and adapting. This is a time for everyone, including myself, to work harder to develop more inclusive communities. What has gotten us to this point will not take us into the bright future that is before us. It’s time to dig deep, think boldly, and live differently. Who is with me?

Please plan to attend a public meeting.

Longmont Longmont Senior Center 910 Longs Peak Ave, Room F Thursday, May 19, 2016 • 5:30 p.m.

Denver RTD Administrative Offices 1600 Blake Street, Rooms T & D Friday, May 20, 2016 • Noon and 6:00 p.m.

Commerce City Commerce City Recreation Center 6060 E. Parkway Dr, Rooms A & B Tuesday, May 24, 2016 • 6:00 p.m.

For details on these changes, see the Proposed August 2016 Service Changes brochure on buses, rail, and at RTD transit stations or visit rtd-denver.com

Regional Transportation District rtd-denver.com | 303.299.6000

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.

FAMILY TUESDAYS: Young Children’s Storytime, The Tattered Cover, Colfax & Elizabeth, 10:30 am. Free. Different topic each week. Call 303-322-1965, ext. 2731. • “Book Babies,” a language enrichment program for babies age six to 23 months, 10:30 am, Children’s Library of the Denver Public Library, 14th & Broadway. Call 720-865-1306. FRIDAYS: Bilingual Storytime at the Ford Library, 28th & High, 10:30 am. Call 720-865-0920. SUNDAY, MAY 8: Mother’s Day is a celebration honoring the mother of the family, as well as

motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. Please remember to honor your MOM this day! MONDAY, MAY 30: Celebrate Memorial Day as we remember the people who died while serving in the United States of America’s armed forces, because freedom is not free.

GALLERIES FRIDAY, APR. 1: First Friday Art Walk in the Golden Triangle Museum District. 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: • Plinth Gallery, 3520 Brighton Blvd., is pleased to present, “Pins and Needles”, the figurative ceramic sculptures of

local artist Marie E.v.B. Gibbons. Exhibit showing thru May, for more information call 303-2950717. • “Jaimie Gershen & Doug Spencer Collaboration,” on exhibition at Leon Gallery, 1112 E 17th Ave., and the exhibit runs May 7-June 24. Opening reception is May 7, 7-10 pm. Free admission, call 303.832.1599 for info. •William Havu Gallery, 1040 Cherokee, proudly presents “Parallel Lines” (new works from Rome and Denver)” marks Amy Metier’s thirteenth solo exhibition, and the sixth solo exhibition at the William Havu Gallery. Exhibition runs Apr. 29-June 18. Call 303-893-2360. • “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 Reception May 6, 5-8 pm. Exhibit runs thru May 14, call 303-3558955. • Gallery 1261 at 1261 Delaware St. presents “Three person Exhibition: David Cheifetz, Sally Shevlino & Jordan Wolfson”. Opening reception is Fri., may 6 at 6-9 pm. an exhibit of specific places that captivate and engage both the artist and viewer. Exhibit runs May 6-June 4, Hours are Tues.Sat, 11-6 pm, call 303-571-1261. • Abend Gallery presents “Contemporary Figuration,” featuring a large survey of works from artists who exhibit some of the most exceptionable per-

GYPSY FLAMENCO JAM. Maestro Rene Heredia and his Flamenco Fantasy Dance Theatre will rock your heart in the in the intimate setting of the Jungle Room in Denver's beloved Mercury Cafe. Heredia is touted as a legend in the Denver press. Don't miss the opportunity to see this show! 2199 California, May 20, 7 pm, $20/$25. 303-

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ABEND GALLERY presents 'Contempory Figuration,' works from a large group of artists, varying from established to emerging. The theme of the figure has been a staple of subject matter for artists since the beginning of time. How does one portray the figure in new and fresh ways? This show won't disappoint! 2260 E. Colfax, May 13-June 18, 303-355-0950; abendgallery.com spectives on figurative painting today. Showing May 13-June 18, a free opening reception is scheduled Fri., May 13, 6-9 pm. Call 303-355-0950.

WORKSHOPS, LECTURES & MEETINGS MONDAY, MAY 2 & 16: Skyline Toastmasters, 6:30 pm, Kephart Architecture, 2555 Walnut. Visitors welcome. Repeated the 1st & 3rd Mon. of every month. Call 303-778-0064. WEDNESDAY, MAY 4: Free Legal 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 month. Call 303-573-1302. • Monthly meeting of Democratic Party of Denver House District 5, Colorado Democratic Party HQ, 789 Sherman, 7-9 pm. Repeated 1st Weds. of every month, varying location. Call 303-830-8242. • Rotary Club of Five Points meets 1st Wed, 6-7 pm, varying locations, New members welcome! Call 720-891-0843 for information. • Learn To Meditate at KMC Downtown at 1336 Glenarm Place is a proven way to over-

come stress and keep a positive, relaxed and creative attitude to life. Kadam Lucy James will explain the basics of meditation and how to get started. Free admission, 7-8:30 pm, http:// meditationincolorado.org/ learn-to-meditate-denver/ THURSDAY, MAY 5: 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 a different topic. Call 303-5735861. • Macedonia Kinship Care Group, 1-3 pm at Macedonia Baptist Church, 3240 Adams. For relatives raising children. Repeated 1st Thurs. of every month. FRIDAY, MAY 6: Community Resources Forum, 9-10:30 am, Sterne-Elder Room of Exempla St. Joseph Hospital, Russell Pavilion, 19th & Lafayette. Free Continental breakfast, varying presentations. Free parking in Humboldt Garage off 20th. Continues the 1st Fri. of every month. Call 303866-8889. • Monthly Downtown Democratic Forum Breakfast, 6:45-8 am, Le Grand Bistro, 1512 Curtis. Buffet $15. Public welcome. Repeated 1st Fri. of the month.Call 303-861-8050 TUESDAY, MAY 10: Active Minds discover The State of the European Union . Join Active Minds at 12:30-1:30

Fantastic Used Bikes & Full Service Shop BIKE SALE

May 7

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9 pm, as we explore the historical roots of the formation of the EU as well as the economic and social issues that challenge its future. Tattered Cover, 2526 E. Colfax, free admission, Info 303322-7727. WEDNESDAY, MAY 11: La Leche League of Denver meets 2nd Wed. of the month, Blair-Caldwell Library, 2401 Welton, 12:30 pm. Call 720-865-2115. WEDNESDAY, MAY 11 & 25: 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. FRIDAY, MAY 13: 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, MAY 14: 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, MAY 16: 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, MAY 19: Monthly meeting of Financially Fit Females, 6 pm. First meeting free, location & topic change monthly, 3rd Thurs. of month. Call 303993-3939. THURSDAY, MAY 19: Join Active Minds as we tell the story of Saudi Arabia. We will cover Saudi history, the impact of changes since the Arab Spring, and the complicated role played by Wahhabi Islam and Sunni Islam in the country and the region. At Windsor Gardens, 597 S. Clinton, 2-3 pm. Free, RSVP not required. SATURDAY, MAY 21: Colorado House District 8 Democrats, 10 am-noon, Park Hill Library, 4705 Montview. Repeated 3rd Sat. of every month. Call 720-220-6876. TUESDAY, MAY 24: 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, MAY 25: 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. 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 - 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

CORE NEW ART SPACE presents 'Trinity,' a show featuring the works of Katie Hoffman, Claudia Roulier, and Valerie Savarie. These women create works that you can't just walk by. They are wound together with symbolism, myth, and depth. Explore each artist's take on the loaded concept of the word 'Trinity.' 900 Santa Fe, May 5-20, 303-297-8429; corenewartspace.com 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. continued on page 10

Sunday

June 26, 2016

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10 CALENDAR Continued from 9 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 & 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 303-8251995. 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 720-209-2896.

• Denver IDEA Cafe, a business start-up & brainstorming group, 2 pm, Panera Bread, 1350 Grant. Guest speakers. Free. Call 303-861-1447. • Community Awareness Program, Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL), 1st Saturdays, 99 W. 12th, 6-8 pm. Call 303-844-4000, 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 unwind after work. Free on Friday’s, 5-6 pm, meditationincolorado.org. 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

GOODWIN FINE ART invites you to view 'That Was Then, This Is Now,' the abstract works of longtime artists Andy Berg and Mark Villarreal. This is a great show for understanding the beginnings of the world of abstract art from the point of view of two very established veterans of the genre. 1255 Delaware, through June 4, 303-573-1255; goodwinfineart.com 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 303-885-6727.

SENIORS THURSDAY, MAY 12: 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. SATURDAY, MAY 14: Free Day for seniors 64+ at the Denver Firefighters Museum, 1326 Tremont Pl. Repeated 2nd Sat. of every month. Call 303-892-1436. 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

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11 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, 10:0011:30am. 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 303-744-6456. • 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. FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS: Weekly services at Temple Micah, 2600 Leyden, 1st & 3rd Fri. 6 pm, 2nd & 4th Sat. 10 am. Family services on first Friday. Call 303-388-4239. • Catholic Mass, 5 pm, St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church, 23rd & York. 303-322-8042. • Church in the City-Beth Abraham, 16th & Gaylord, 10 am. Call 303-322-5733.

SUPPORT GROUPS SATURDAY, APR. 2: “Sister to Sister” Breast Cancer Survivor’s Support Group, 1 -3 pm at Zion Senior center, 5151 E. 33rd. repeated 1st Sat. of every month. Call 303-771-8784. WEDNESDAY, MAY 4: Dementia Caregiver Support Group. A safe to share concerns, coping techniques, and tips when caring for a loved one with dementia. 1301 E. Colfax, 10-11:30 am at The Center. Free. Repeated 1st Wed. every month. Call 303-951-5222. THURSDAY, MAY 5 & 19: Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance, Our Savior’s Lutheran, 915 E. 9th, 7 pm. Repeated every 1st & 3rd Thurs. Call 303-329-3364. TUESDAY, MAY 10: Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group at National Jewish Health, 1400 Jackson, Molly Blank Bldg., J105, every 2nd Tues., 1 pm. Call 303398-1912 WEDNESDAY, MAY 11: “Let’s Talk About It,” a free prostate cancer information session for men, 5:30 - 7 pm at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers, 1800 Williams, 3rd fl. Continues 2nd Wed. of every month. Call 303758-2030, ext. 139. WEDNESDAY, MAY 25: Denver Secular Recovery, a self-help, non “12-step” support group for people recovering from alcohol & drug abuse, meets in the 2nd fl. meeting rm. of the Denver Public Library, 13th & Broadway, 6:30-8 pm. Repeated the last wed. of every month. Call 303-278-9993. THURSDAY, MAY 26: Monthly Kidney Cancer Support Group,

BEETHOVEN AND BREWS. When Beethoven is involved, even beer drinking can be a cultural experience. The Colorado Symphony is pairing with the Denver Beer Company for an unusual and fun event. A small ensemble from the Colorado Symphony will perform while you taste beers from some of your favorite Colorado breweries. This fundraising event will also feature light bites and a souvenir glass. 1695 Platte, May 5, 6:30-8:30 pm,$40/$45. 303-292-5566; tickets.coloradosymphony.org/single/event 6 pm, The Urology Center of Colorado. Meeting will take place 4th Thurs. at 2777 Mile High Stadium in the 3rd Floor Conference Room.Call 303-762-7666 to register. MONDAYS: Weekly meetings of Emotions Anonymous, 7:30-9 pm, CHARG Resource Center, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 9th & Emerson (use basement entrance on Emerson). Call 303-331-2493. • Weekly meetings of SMART Recovery for people with addictive behaviors, Nourished Health Center, 1740 Marion, 6:30-7:30 pm. Free. Call 303-593-2535. • Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, 7-8:30 pm, First Avenue Presbyterian Church, 1st & Acoma (1st Ave. side, downstairs). Call 303-425-9691. • Cocaine Anonymous, St. Paul’s United Methodist, 16th & Ogden, 8 pm. Call 303-421-5120. MONDAYS & THURSDAYS: Meetings of LifeRing Secular Recovery, a network of support groups for people who want to maintain continuous abstinence from alcohol & other drugs, Washington Park. Call 303-699-2406. TUESDAYS: Workaholics Anonymous, 5:45 pm, Capitol Heights Presbyterian, 11th & Fillmore. No fees. Call 720-565-9799. • Meetings of Marijuana Anonymous, numerous meeting places and times throughout the

Denver area. Please call 303-6077516 for locations and times. • Weekly meetings of Moderation Management, for problem (vs. chronic) drinkers who want to reduce their intake of alcohol, 6:30-8 pm at First Unitarian Church, 14th & Lafayette. Call 303-921-5125. • Joy AL-ANON, 8 pm in the Roberts building, Room 103 at St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral, 1350 Washington. Call 303-831-7115. WEDNESDAYS: Weekly Support Group for the local chapter of HEAL (Health Education AIDS Liaison), 7:30 pm. Call Marty at 303-355-0788. THURSDAYS: Home for the Heart AL-ANON, 7 pm, Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Grant (lower level), 7 pm. Call 303-321-8895. FRIDAYS: “Healthy Relationships,” 10 am - noon, Epworth United Methodist Church, 3401 high. Light snack. Call 303-3551014. SATURDAYS: Alcoholics Anonymous Newcomers Group, 8:45 am, 1311 York, 3rd floor. No smoking, free. Call 720-495-4949.’ SUNDAYS: Nicotine Anonymous, 12:30 pm, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 915 E. 9th. • Nar-Anon is a twelve step support group for families and friends of addicts to help themselves cope. There are no dues or

fees. Weekly Denver meeting at First Unitarian, 1400 Lafayette, Sun., 6:45 pm.

FREEBIES TUESDAY, MAY 3: Children’s Museum of Denver Free Day, 2121 Children’s Museum Dr., 4-8 pm ONLY, 303-433-7444 FRIDAY, MAY 6 & 13: Clyfford Still Museum Free evenings, 1250 Bannock, 5-8 pm, 720-3544880. SATURDAY, MAY 7 & JUNE 4: Denver Art Museum Free Day, 10 am-5 pm, 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy., Free 1st Saturdays. Call 303-892-1505. MONDAY, MAY 9: Denver Museum of Nature & Science Free Day, 2001 Colorado Blvd., 9 am-5 pm. Call 303-370-6000. FRIDAY, MAY 13: Four Mile Historic Park Free Day, 715 South Forest St., 12-4 pm. Call 720-865-0800. FRIDAY, MAY 13: Mizel Museum Free Day, 9 am-4 pm, 400 Kearney, call 303-394-9993. SATURDAY, MAY 14 & 28 : Museum of Outdoor Arts Free Day, 1000 Englewood Pkwy., Indoor & Outdoor Galleries & Sound Gallery, 11 am-4 pm, 303-806-0444. THURSDAY, JUNE 2: Molly Brown House Museum, Free Day, 1340 Pennsylvania, call 303832-4092.

GILPIN MONTESSORI PUBLIC SCHOOL (ECE-6)

THE DENVER ART MUSEUM presents 'Why We Dance: American Indian Art in Motion.' This multi-sensory exhibition features 86 works; 78 from the DAM's collection. Highlighting the motivations for Native American dancing shines a spotlight on the DAM's wonderful collection of Native American Art. Join a video dance circle and gain a deeper understanding of Colorado's true Natives. 100 W. 14th Pkwy., May 29, $8-$13. 720-8655000; denverartmuseum.org

The mission of Gilpin Montessori Public School is to cultivate active, lifelong, exploratory learners in a caring, collaborative and hands-on learning environment using the internationally-successful Montessori curriculum.

2949 California St. | 720-424-7140 gilpin.dpsk12.org

DENVER FARMERS' MARKETS ARE BAAACK! By Denny Taylor It’s that time of the year again that many of the residents of Denver have been anxiously awaiting. Yes, the season for Farmers’ Markets is again upon us, and the taste of fresh is just around a nearby corner. This year a fresh crop of local growers and a some new food vendors join the old favorites throughout and around The Mile High City. These markets aren't just about locally grown farm-fresh veggies and fruits or delicious baked goods and goodto-the-last bite prepared foods, though you'll find more than enough of those purveyed. Many Denver Farmers’ Markets are a weekly street type fair with a festive flair, including live entertainment, family-friendly activities and a vibrant crowd of locals. Take some time this spring and summer to enjoy the bargains, variety and ambiance of all things grown, raised or made in Colorado at one these great Denver Farmers' Markets and support many local farmers and businesses in the process.

CHERRY CREEK FRESH MARKET First Ave. & University Blvd. The award winning Cherry Creek Fresh Market is not just the largest farmers’ market in Denver, but has been dubbed the “Cadillac of farmers’ markets.” The shopper will discover a high quality mix of fresh Colorado growers and unique top shelf local gourmet food purveyors representing the best the regional Rockies has to offer. One can find good deals on anything from flowers to seafood, soaps, olive oils, honey, and much more. Definitely something for everyone to check out.

Also enjoy chef demonstrations, free samples, kitchen and garden artisan products, gardening tips from Master Gardeners and Master Composters, live music and more in a fun and festive open-air shopping environment. Hours: Saturday, May 7-Oct. 29, 8 am-1 pm & Wed., June 15Sept. 28, 9 am-1 pm

CITY PARK ESPLANADE FRESH MARKET E. Colfax & Columbine Now in its 19th season, the ever popular City Park Esplanade Fresh Market is conveniently located and sets up around historic Sullivan Fountain among the majestic statues and architecture of City Park. A strong agricultural market, you’ll find an outstanding selection of local growers complemented by a pleasurable mix of fresh food vendors in a lush green urban park setting. It’s also the perfect spot for a picnic to sample the wares after shopping! There’s plenty of free parking to make your excursion stress free when you visit your favorite market vendors on Sunday at the esplanade. Hours: Sunday, June 5-Oct. 30, 9 am-1 pm

LE JARDIN SECRET CHEFS FRESH MARKET 1420 Larimer Celebrating its third year anniversary at Larimer Square, Bistro Vendome Courtyard, is the venerable Le Jardin Secret – the "secret garden." This is not your run-ofthe-mill summer market. At this French-inspired chef's’ market, foodies can shop for dairy, meat, bread, produce and other goods. You'll find perfect tomatoes, exciting French cheeses, grass-fed

This year a fresh crop of local growers and some new food vendors join the old favorites at Farmers’ Markets throughout and around the Mile High City. PHOTO BY JEFF HERSCH tenderloins and artisan breads on hand. Select vendors like Grateful Bread Company, Western Daughters Butcher Shoppe, the Truffle Cheese Shop, Sugarmill and Blooming Fool will sell a variety of ingredients specifically curated for the adventurous home chef. Hours: At production deadline their schedule was yet to be published.

STAPLETON FRESH MARKET E. 29th & Roslyn Celebrating its 12th season this year Stapleton Farmers Market is a fun family event that sets up around the large grassy knoll of Stapleton Founder's’ Green where you’ll find great Colorado-grown fruits and vegetables, tasty baked goods, fresh culinary herbs, seasonal greens, specialty meats, gourmet food items and more! Kick a ball around, play a little

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frisbee or splash in the wading fountain on hot summer days. There’s something for everyone at this popular community market. This year's kickoff is on Father's Day, making it the perfect way to spend the morning with Dad. Don't miss the freshly-popped kettle corn and other tasty snacks while you browse for healthy produce. Hours: Sunday, June 19-Oct. 16, 8:30 am-12:30 pm

OLD SOUTH PEARL STREET FARMERS' MARKET On the 1500 block of Old South Pearl, between Florida & Iowa Since 2001 this market has purveyed super-fresh produce, ready-to-eat treats, artisan cheeses, craft brewers and justout-of-the-oven baked goods. Many vendors like Ela Family Farms, known far and wide for their mouthwatering peaches and apples from the Western Slope, and Styria Bakery, legendary for their fresh baked bread, have been here since the beginning. The irresistible smell of freshly roasted chilies will lead you right over to Pope Farms' booth. The quaint South Pearl neighborhood hosts this splendid Old South Pearl Street Farmers' Market every Sunday in the summertime. Monthly themes keep the vibes as fresh as the produce. Look for the famous chili cookoffs in October and if you're looking for tips on what to do with your haul, show up around noon for the weekly "Nibble at Noon" chef demonstration featuring recipes, cooking tips and more. Hours: Sunday, May 15 Nov. 13, 9 am-1 pm

Now Taking Top Quality Spring Consignmen ts New and Near-New Women’s Clothing, Jewelry, Accessories, Home Decor & Vintage 1244 E. Colfax at Lafayette 303-832-0783 www.myact2.com MON-SAT 9AM-6PM • SUN 11AM-4PM

FRESH MARKET POP-UP AT STAPLETON E. 49th & Valentia Ct. The Fresh Market Pop-up at Stapleton Conservatory Green is a newcomer for 2016 and is a pop-up version of the popular Stapleton Fresh Market. Purveying many of the same culinary favorites and choices as its famous cousin, it provides an alternative to the traditional weekend format for foodies during midweek. Come over after work for live music and libations as you shop for fresh produce and enjoy delicious cuisine from your favorite Stapleton vendors. Hours: Thursday, Aug. 11–Sept. 1, 5 pm–8 pm

HIGHLAND UNITED NEIGHBORS FARMERS MARKET 1500 Boulder Now in its eighth year, this market, located in a vibrant neighborhood just west of downtown is easily accessible from downtown, Sloan’s Lake, Sunnyside and the Highlands. Located in front of well-known local restaurants Vita, Lola and Linger it provides a vibrant mix of fresh, frozen, dry and prepared foods; the HUNI Farmers Market bar; local artisans and attractions such as live music, a bounce house for the kids and periodic specialty-themed days! Hours: At production deadline their schedule was yet to be published.

SKYLINE MARKET 16th & Arapahoe Not just a farmers market! The Skyline Market is truly a food experience located in the heart of Downtown Denver at Skyline Park. Enjoy live music, artisanal products, ready to eat food and a farm fresh experience. Skyline also offers chef dinners, which are idyllically small and created from ingredients plucked from the market. Prepared and presented at a delightful table right out there in the middle of a beautiful park in downtown Denver. How cool is that? Did we mention there's also a beer garden? Hours: Friday from June 14Aug. 30, 11 am-7 pm

SCHOOLS By Linda Katchen, Ph. D. May is a wonderful month. It brings spring flowers and promises of summer adventures. Some students will be saying goodbye to schools, friends and teachers for the last time as they move on to their next level of education and careers. Graduating seniors are hopeful as they pursue dreams for their futures. Teachers, too, are making plans that often include classes and workshops that help them get better at their jobs. Summer allows students and teachers to recharge their batteries, get some extra rest and just have fun! At Cole Arts and Science Academy (CASA), 3240 Humboldt, the Health and Wellness Committee is partnering with the CASA library to host the second annual CASA Book Fair Run. Each student will be participating with their class by running laps around the north field. All students are encouraged to find sponsors to donate $1, $3, $5, or more to support CASA’s library! This in lieu of selling candy at the Book Fair in order to promote a healthy lifestyle of both reading and staying active! The Book Fair begins on Mon., May 16. At the beginning of May, your student will bring home a sponsorship envelope. Help them find sponsors for the run and return the envelope to their teacher. A good place to learn about Columbine, 2540 E. 29th Ave., is by going to its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ColumbineCougars. You can view videos and photos of students participating in various activities including receiving awards, dancing in the cafeteria and activities in the Social Emotional Learning Room. It is a great way to get an understanding of the school as it joins with Barrett. Downtown Denver Expeditionary School (DDES), 1860 Lincoln, has a volunteer reading program, Blue Bear Buddies, that is designed to engage members of the Denver community with DDES students to foster a lifelong love of reading. An adult is paired with one or two students for 30-45 minutes of read-alouds each week. If you are interested in volunteering for the program, please complete the volunteer information form at: https:// docs.google.com/a/ddeschool. org/forms/d/1kW8AO29--vTrcfdp_x4q5F_g1BcWz3FmlSvqIHsJtTM/viewform In order to serve our community well, and for the safety of both you as the volunteer and for the safety of our students, DDES requires all of our regular volunteers to undergo a background check. This is required once every two years. Here is the link for the online background

check: https://www.cbirecordscheck.com. The cost is $6.85. Please email a pdf copy to Becky Diehl at DDES. If you have volunteered before, you do not need to complete the form again. DDES will hold an informational meeting regarding enrollment on Tues., May 17 from 9-10 am. Gilpin Montessori, 2949 California, wants to inform the community about its annual fundraiser! For the fourth consecutive year, Friends of Gilpin will be hosting the Spring Carnival. Friends of Gilpin is a nonprofit that hosts fundraisers and develops strategies to maintain high-quality Montessori programming at the school. FOG raises money each year to pay for Montessori teacher training/ workshops, tuition support, paraprofessional salaries, field trips, and other educational needs that are not funded by Denver Public Schools. All of these things are made possible thanks to your generous contributions. Please join us on May 20 from 3-7 pm to mingle with neighbors and friends while supporting our neighborhood school. The carnival will include Swallow Hill musical petting zoo, interactive games and more! If you or your business is interested in Sponsorship for this event, please email friendsofgilpintreasury@gmail.com. Montessori Academy of Denver (MAC), 2500 Curtis, will be celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week Mon.-Fri., May 2-6. Polaris at Ebert, 410 Park Ave. West, will also be honoring teachers and staff from May 2-6. There are many volunteer opportunities at Polaris. If you are

MARATHON Continued from 3 8 and then the price goes up to $319 per team. Finally, the Bellco Colfax 5K is a shorter race that also starts in City Park and has various waves, one for individuals, a stroller-friendly one for families and walkers, and a dog-friendly one as well. This race is held on SATURDAY, May 14 at 9 am and starts in City Park on the east side of Ferrill Lake. There is no time limit for this race. Registration fees for this race are $43 and can also be paid onsite (for this race only!), the day of the race, but the price

interested, contact the school at 720-424-7860 or go to: polarisprogram.dpsk12.org/support-polaris/volunteering/. On Mon., May 23, Polaris will participate in a community dinner at Next Door Union Station from 5-9 pm. The restaurant is generously donating 50% of all participating sales to Polaris. Invite your family and friends to join you for dinner and make sure to tell your server that you are there for Polaris. On Thurs., May 12 from 5-8 pm. join the Polaris community for the Polaris Gala, the final family event of the year. There will be student performances by each grade, and food trucks will be parked outside of the school for refreshments. The last day of school for DSST: Cole Middle School, 1350 E. 33rd Ave, and DSST: Cole High School, 3240 Humboldt, will be Fri., May 27, which is also an early dismissal day. The spring musical at Manual, 1700 E. 28th Ave., will be performed from Fri.-Sun., May 13-15. Contact the school at 720 423-6300 for more information. Attention all Incoming Manual High School Freshmen! The Center for Urban Education (CUE), Metropolitan State University of Denver is offering two, three-week college readiness camps FREE to current 8th grade students who will be entering a DPS high school in fall 2016. The 9th Grade College Readiness Camps will take place at Metropolitan State University of Denver, Auraria Campus for up to 120 students (60 students per camp) Students may choose to attend camp in either June or July: June Session; June 13-July 1, from 9 am-3:30 pm July Session: July 11-July 29, from 9 am-3:30 pm All participating students will receive the following FREE resources. Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks will be provided daily. RTD bus passes will be given to all students who participate (Note: DPS bus service will be provided to students living in far

goes up to $48. You can run for the nonprofit of your choice; over 190 charities benefit from the seven races that make up the weekend. All Colfax 5K racers will receive a t-shirt, finish line food, music and admission to the post-race expo as part of their registration fees. All other race runners will receive all of this, plus car decals, an oncourse digital photo and finisher medals as well. If you run in a race on both Saturday & Sunday, you will receive a free Colfax Art Print for participating. For registration, parking details, and more information (and there is a lot that could not be included here), go to runcolfax.org.

northeast Denver). Students will receive all school supplies and class materials, including backpacks, tee shirts and other neat MSU campus “stuff”. Students will be entered into a raffle for computer tablets awarded at the end of the each camp. Both the June and July college readiness camps include the following special features: fun, hands-on projects aimed at college readiness and specially designed classes taught by university professors. MSU Denver students will serve as college readiness mentors and guides (Spanish speaking mentors on staff). There will be field trips and campus tours. Interested students and parents can learn more about the 9th Grade College Readiness Camps by going to the CUE website at: www.msudenver.edu/ cent…/9thgradecollegereadinesscamp/. In addition, you can view videos and slide shows of past 9th Grade College Readiness Camps at www.youtube. com/user/CUE80204. This is a tremendous opportunity for incoming high school freshman. Hopefully, several future manual students will take advantage of this opportunity. Principal Nick Dawkins wrote about an innovative program coming to Manual next year. “… I am writing to share the exciting news of our new partnership with Harvard Graduate School of Education teacher’s preparation program. Called Harvard Teacher Fellows, this unique program allows us to leverage the unmatched rigor of Harvard and bring added energy and innovation to Manual. Through this partnership, our school will host two Harvard Fellows during their teacher residencies for the 20162017 school year. Fellows will be matched with master teachers, who will serve as their yearlong mentors and coaches. Prior to arriving at Manual, our Fellows will have engaged in eight months of coursework and student teaching during their senior year. Upon arrival, they will be

placed in our classrooms as halftime teachers in math, science, history, or English for the entire year. When not leading instruction, our Fellows will be active participants in other key aspects of the Manual community. The program is open to all Harvard seniors, who are chosen through a highly competitive process and matched with partner schools based on their academic backgrounds, content and location preferences, as well as partner school needs. After finishing their residency year with us, our Fellows will return to Harvard for an additional summer of training and mentored teaching. Upon completion of the program, Fellows will be required to work in an urban school – possibly back here in Denver – for a minimum of four years. Coming from one of the best universities in the world, these young educators will offer fresh perspectives and new approaches to our mission, but as much as these Fellows will contribute at Manual, we also are doing our part by nurturing much-needed teaching talent. I'm sure you can tell how excited we are about the program and how fortunate we feel that Manual is one of only two DPS schools hosting such bright and ambitious young teachers-in-training. Indeed, I truly believe Manual's partnership with Harvard Teacher Fellows is a testament to our continued commitment to innovation and educational excellence.” This program will be fascinating to watch as it unfolds at Manual. Good luck with this, Thunderbolts! Graduation will be held at Manual on Sat., May 28 from 10 am-12 pm. August will come before you know it. So enjoy the last few days of this school year and celebrate your victories as you get ready for what is to come! See you next fall! Questions, comments or pictures: Contact Linda Katchen at drschoolscoop@gmail.com

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14 ST. PAUL’S Continued from 3 had become a desirable spot for those seeking a more harmonious residential setting. At one point after moving to its current location, the church could boast of having 800 members according to church records researched at the Denver Public Library. The church was designed in the neo-classical style by architect James B. Hyer at a cost of $100,00. The wooden pews, set in a curved auditorium-style offer a welcoming environment that is crowned by the stunning stainedglass windows that feature soft green, pink and gold hues in a floral design bringing brilliant light into the sanctuary. Clarence Watkins designed the stained glass in the English tradition. The Watkins family has an eight-generation legacy in stained-glass artistry going back to 1761 in England, and since 1868, in Colorado. Watkins Stained-Glass Studio is located in Englewood and has made its mark in homes, churches and commercial buildings in the Rocky Mountain region. Kara Hahn, senior city planner with Denver Landmark Preservation said St. Paul is within a National Registered Historic District known as the Swallow Hill Historic District, and as such is registered and protected as a national, state and city landmark. “The decision to close the church didn’t come easily,” said Rooks. “It was financially unsustainable with a 100-year-old building to maintain and a minimal staff, with a minister, music directors, and a custodian.” With the ongoing demise in attendance, Rooks noted that the conversation had been on the forefront of people’s minds for several years. “It’s hard. And it’s a decision (the closing) not anyone wanted to make, but it was a faith-filled decision by the members. We have no plans to sell the building and our current tenants will stay. The hardest part is that the community is separating and will find other churches to attend. Those parishioners who have been here for years won’t be together anymore. It’s a change in relationships and everyone seems to be grieving just knowing change is coming,” said Rooks. For a congregation whose early beliefs supported slavery, today

the church has operated for decades with the motto, “We are a friendly and welcoming church.” In 1984, it was the third congregation in the United States to become a Reconciling Congregation and among the first churches in Denver to embrace the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual, transgender community. The church welcomed other religions and had discussions led by religious leaders from the Catholic and Jewish faiths and until recently supported a Buddhist-Christian/Inter-spiritual service. Acceptance for all has been the main theme for this congregation as social issues have changed and allowed people of all races, religions and sexual orientation to step out into the light and live their lives with choices and support. For music directors, Terri Jo and Jeff Jenkins, the church has been a haven. She is a vocalist and he is a pianist/organist. Both are well known among those in Denver’s ever-growing group of jazz aficionados. “Our three years at this church have been rewarding on so many different levels. I was so moved, first of all, by the diversity of the congregation and the unending acceptance of that diversity. The only thing that mattered at St. Paul’s was love,” said Jeff, who acknowledges that many in the congregation who have been homeless or suffered from addiction, mental health issues or felt abandoned and alone, have found refuge at St. Paul. “As music directors, Terri Jo and I were met with an equal amount of acceptance. My penchant for “jazzing things up,” which might be off putting to a church atmosphere in many places, was encouraged and even championed here. It was a very free and supporting place to work. Often, I would play beyond my normal level; due to the love and inspiration I would feel just by being in the place. I’m just heartbroken this is all coming to an end,” he added. Terri Jo Jenkins echoes her husband’s thoughts about the church’s closing, and along with her husband and other church members, is concerned about what will become of those who have come to depend on the Sunday morning breakfast program that has been operating since 1986. “The hard and dedicated work that this small congregation put

At 38th & Blake Street station opening celebration, people could buy a sand blank for $10, carve it, and then have it cast in iron for perpetuity. PHOTO BY JEFF HERSCH into feeding the homeless and those in need was astounding. Much of the time there just wasn’t enough money taken in at an offering to support the breakfast program, so we would all donate supplies on many occasions. It was a good mission, but came up against much controversy from the surrounding neighborhood. Some of the St. Paul’s neighbors were less than pleased with the line of guests in the parking lot waiting for a hot breakfast on Sunday mornings,” she said. Janie Haile, who has been a member of St. Paul since 1998, has been coming to the breakfast program for the past five years and is the program’s manager. She too, shares the Jenkins’ concern about how those in need will get along without the breakfast program once the church closes. Even as the church’s financial resources have diminished making a full breakfast unavailable, St. Paul, with the helping hands of other United Methodist congregations have made it possible to serve coffee and donuts to the needy. Last summer, the program served about 300 guests, but more recently the number of guests has dwindled to between 100-125 guests. Haile said there are other places in the community where food is available around noon, but there are no warm and dry places for the homeless to go between

when they are required to leave the shelters early in the morning and lunchtime. “ I know I’ve been able to make a difference in many lives as well as feeling blessed by the guests I’ve met. Last fall, we only served the last Sunday of the month and it didn’t feel right to me. For me, I missed interacting with our guests while serving hot coffee (as many as 48 gallons), finding Band-Aids, towels, jackets and dry socks. And listening to their stories. For me, there will be a large hole left when I have to shut down the program May 22,” said Haile who hopes to find another place that’s willing to host a Sunday morning breakfast. As well as helping others, even going back to World Wars I & II, when the congregation joined the war effort on the home front, the congregation has stepped-up to help their own. John McDonald, a three-year member of St. Paul, who served as a trustee, on the leadership committee and conducted Shakespeare classes in the sanctuary for burgeoning actors, was a recipient of the congregation’s benevolence when his apartment rent was raised by 40 per cent and he was forced to move. “A call was put out that I needed help. Within an hour, twenty-five people showed-up to move me to a new place. That act of kindness was much appreciated,” said McDonald whose two daughters, in their 20s and 30s, told their father they felt accepted at St. Paul, “without any conditions.” And while the congregation is shrouded in sadness as the calendar moves towards the church’s closure, there is discussion about another church congregation

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emerging at St. Paul in another year or so. The church, called Belong, now in the developmental stage, will target the needs of Millennials, Gen-Xers, the Uptown community and others who are looking for a non-traditional spiritual home in which to belong. Themes will include diversity, inclusiveness, art and justice. And while there are more ways to communicate than ever before with an exhausting number of social media outlets, many people feel a lack of community and face-to-face relationships of which to be a part. The leadership of Belong, will come from Jasper Peters, associate pastor at Trinity United Methodist Church,” said Rooks who added, “This is positive and hopeful. In the meantime, the Rev. Paul Kotte, metro district superintendent of the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Methodist Church and formerly the pastor at the now closed, Warren United Methodist Church at 14th & Gilpin said, “This is an opportunity to re-define organized religion which is sometimes considered rigid and dogmatic. Right now, St. Paul’s is on ‘institutional hospice.’ The good news is, new life will come and that is the essence of the Christian story. There is life after death.” On another upbeat note, Hazel Miller and her 8-piece band that have had an annual presence at St. Paul’s Christmas Eve service for the past 20 years, will have a benefit concert for St. Paul in the evening of Sunday, May 15. Time to be decided. While Miller is disappointed to know the church is closing, she hopes to gather as many musicians as possible to help put together a rousing celebration to honor St. Paul as a spiritual landmark that has contributed to the well being of the Denver community for 156 years. “We’ll go out with a bang! There’s no doubt about it,” exclaimed Miller whose enthusiastic “pipes” as a blues, jazz and gospel singer have made us smile and tap our toes for many years.

COLFAX’S FAMED NEON SIGNS MAKE NATIONAL & LOCAL ENDANGERED LISTS By Keith Lewis In the 1950s and 60s, U.S. Route 40 along Colfax was the major highway crossing Colorado and was known as the “Gateway to the Rockies.” During this era, both sides of the street were filled with hotels, motels, diners, and other merchants hoping to attract tourists passing through on their vacation in the family station wagon. This era was the heyday of the family road trip. Whether the travelers were just passing through on a cross-country trek or heading to a winter ski vacation in the mountains, there was plenty of lodging, dining, and merchandising along their route in Denver. The motel and restaurant owners erected impressive and high quality neon signs to compete with each other for the patronage of the passing motorists. Bright neon signs marked Pete’s Kitchen on East Colfax, the Aristocrat Hotel, the Big Bunny Motel, the Bluebird Theater, and so many more landmarks along Colfax. Now, Colfax’s famous neon signs are in danger due to a combination of developers razing lots for new projects and also simply the economics of repairing broken signs. However, many

Denver residents are not so ready to see the historic signs vanish, and they are taking action. In 1997, the nonprofit Colorado Preservation, Inc. created the Endangered Places Program (EPP) to highlight certain historic landmarks around Denver in order to raise awareness about their past and the stories they tell. Several neon signs on Colfax made the list of endangered sites in 2014, with Colorado Preservation releasing a Top 11 Endangered Signs List, including the Satire Lounge, Pete’s Kitchen, and the Royal Palace Motel, among others. In total, 35 neon signs made the endangered list. To raise additional awareness, the Endangered Places Program is now selling commemorative necklaces, which show a small depiction of various Colfax neon signs from yesteryear. The necklaces sell for $37, and proceeds go to the EPP. The Endangered Places Program seeks to tell the stories behind the historic and often now neglected sites listed. “EPP is more than a list of threatened sites,” says Jennifer Orrigo Charles. “Through our listed sites, the program highlights the stories of people, communities, and po-

The neon shines bright at night from Pete’s Kitchen, 1962 E. Colfax, which ironically is close to its vintage date. PHOTO BY JEFF HERSCH

tential areas for future economic development,” notes Charles. Another local group, Save Our Signs, works with the city councils in Aurora, Denver, and Lakewood to legislate incentives to preserve the signs. Save Our Signs also finds locations where signs can be displayed after redevelopment of the original property on which the sign once stood. “Our main goal is to save the existing signs on Colfax, but if that’s not possible our next goal is to find a public place to display the signs,” says Corky Scholl, of

Save Our Signs. Scholl notes that one potential location for the signs could be in the Stanley Marketplace development near Stapleton, which Scholl is working hard to finalize with the owners. One national organization, The Society of Commercial Architecture, recently placed Colfax’s famous neon signs on its 2016 “Falling By The Wayside” list of endangered historic landmarks across America. Although Colfax redevelopment may be great for the fast-growing

area, many locals hope that Denver, Lakewood, and Aurora will develop wisely while preserving the unique character of Colfax and its historic neon signs in the process. For more information, to get involved, or to purchase a commemorative necklace, please contact Jennifer Orrigo Charles of Colorado Preservation, Inc. at jorrigocharles@coloradopreservation.org. Also, contact your city councilperson to voice your support for the Colfax neon signs preservation initiatives.

value of $288,000 (which is the median value for Denver) would pay approximately $29 more per year. Commercial property owners could expect to pay $290 for every $1 million in assessed value. The companion initiative to secure funds for affordable housing involves a one-time impact fee for commercial and residential construction. It would be assessed during the permitting process. This is viewed as a less stable source of income than the mill levy because it can be difficult to forecast the volume of new construction projects. The City Council is expected to vote on both the mill levy and impact fee this fall after the results of Nexus and feasibility studies have been vetted by the Mayor’s staff. The two studies were contracted out to a professional company to determine the most equitable way to calculate the additional fees. There will be opportunities for the public to attend presentations on the studies, and the results will also be posted on denvergov.org

It is important to note that the bulk of city property taxes collected go to Denver Public schools. They are separately held and calculated from a different set of mills. The money that would be allocated to affordable housing is distinct from the DPS money and the General Fund. The General Fund pays for city services and the salaries of city employees, among other things. There are a handful of developments around the city that offer residents more economical places to live. One is Terraza Del Sol in southwest Denver. It will provide 42 units of affordable housing and is expected to open in spring of 2017. In northwest Denver, Aria Denver is transforming the former Marycrest Convent, formerly owned by the Sisters of St. Francis, into condos. Eight of the 28 units are designated for lower-income residents. While these projects will help, and are certainly welcome, they are a drop in the bucket considering the overall scope of the need.

THE BATTLE FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING By Jennifer Turner Denver is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. According to the Denver Post, from 2014 to July 2015, Denver County had the biggest percent population increase in Colorado. Almost 18,600 people moved here during that period. There are many reasons people come to Colorado; natural beauty of the state, quality of life, laid back vibe and access to legal marijuana. Forbes magazine also recently ranked Denver as #1 on its list of Best Cities for Careers and Businesses. While the city’s growth has been beneficial in many ways, it has contributed to an affordable housing crisis. The situation has gotten so dire that the need to do something has achieved rare broad support from Mayor Hancock, the City Council, business leaders, and a coalition of concerned citizens and nonprofit groups. The problem is particularly bad in Central Denver. Many renters in neighborhoods including LoDo, Capitol Hill and Cheesman Park have seen their rents increase by double digits in the past several years and some have simply been priced out of the market. Numerous longtime homeowners received substantial property tax increases in January. The city’s hospitality industry workers have been particularly hard hit; many are increasingly finding they can’t afford to live where they work. The lack of affordable housing

is also a contributing factor in the growth of the city’s homeless population, which includes an alarming number of senior citizens. For some people who live on Capitol Hill, homeless people have become their neighbors because they see them so frequently in the alleys and streets. It is not uncommon for area residents to know the homeless well enough to call them by name. Mayor Hancock and the City Council have been exploring various sources of capital in order to establish long-term, dedicated funds for an affordable housing plan. Many large cities, including Boston and Sacramento, have had these types of programs in place for years. The goal is to secure $150 Million in funding over the next ten years to address the problem. The Mayor and City Council plan to do this through two primary initiatives that don’t require additional voter approval. The first involves a property tax increase that is tied to Amendment 2A, which was overwhelming passed by Denver voters in the fall of 2012. Amendment 2A was designed to provide some financial flexibility (and relief) from the controversially Tax Payer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) law passed in 1992. While TABOR has forced legislators to balance the budget, it has also created a broad swath of financial problems for the city and state that has sometimes resulted in draconian cost cutting. TABOR allows no more than six percent of Denver tax revenues

to be held in a “rainy day” fund. This structure makes it challenging to find money for programs, such as affordable housing initiatives, which often result from tax surpluses. When Denver voters passed 2A they effectively overrode TABOR and gave the city permission to keep more tax money and eliminate refunds. Citizens can now be taxed slightly more through the newly established mill levy, but the rate cannot exceed six percent overall (not to be confused with each property owner being limited to a six percent increase). The mill levy is the assessed property tax rate used by local governments and other jurisdictions to raise revenue and cover annual expenses. It is calculated by determining how much revenue each taxing jurisdiction will need for the upcoming year. That projection is then divided by the total value of the property within the area. The final step is to add up the rate from each jurisdiction to calculate the mill levy for the entire area. Beginning with the 2013 assessed property value mill levy rate, the city is gradually adding the mill levy amount to generate more funds that can be earmarked for the Mayor’s programs, with City Council approval. City officials plan to dedicate 1 mill toward affordable housing. This proposal would not dramatically impact homeowners’ tax bills, but yield approximately $13 million annually. A homeowner whose house has an assessed

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16 CITY PARK Continued from 1 designed independently, but at the same time as other nearby improvements, including the reconstruction of I-70 East, a project to remove the Brighton viaduct, “sink” I-70 below grade, and “cap” the highway with landscape to reconnect neighborhoods on either side. Detractors see a connection, and are calling for a halt. Registered Neighborhood Organization City Park Friends and Neighbors opposes it, and said in a position statement that the “options seem to be designed mainly to protect the Highway I-70 expansion from a 100 year flood.” A February form letter from 12 Cole neighborhood residents to city council members called for a halt to the I-70 expansion project until better stormwater detention alternatives were found. (Its primary objection was the possible construction of the stormwater detention area in Cole, which would have required condemning

homes.) An attorney representing former Colorado Attorney General J.D. MacFarlane sent a letter to the city attorney on April 4, calling the construction of the detention area in City Park Golf Course a violation of city zoning and the city charter, because (among other reasons) water detention could not be considered a park purpose, especially when connected to the I-70 project. The letter asked for a response from the city attorney and communicated that they consider the message a notice of intent to sue, as required by state law. The city is part of a July 2015 Intergovernmental Agreement which requires Colorado Department of Transportation to fund a portion of required drainage improvements for the I-70 East project, including the Platte to Park Hill project. The departments of Parks and Recreation and Public Works identified the City Park Golf Course as “inadvertently” (not by design) helping to mitigate damage from a 100-year flood in an August 2014 Memo-

In City Park, Kimberly emulates a “scary chicken” at the Party in the Park on April 24. PHOTO BY JEFF HERSCH randum of Understanding, and pledged to cooperate in preserving that benefit while allowing

changes in park use. A cost range of the project will be provided once the preferred

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option is chosen, and a refined cost will be determined with the completion of each part’s design and engineering, according to a project fact sheet. It will be paid for by a proposed increase in wastewater fees – needed for increased maintenance costs and other system improvements – expected to come before council for a vote this spring. Although the design will not go before council for approval, explained Kuhn, contracts over $500,000 require a vote. For more information, summaries of neighborhood meetings and maps, visit denvergov.org/PlattetoParkHill.

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