FEDERICO

FROM PAGE 8

In the world we live in, children encounter difficult social topics at a very young age. Knowledge is power, please educate and protect your children.

On ‘Blackness is Creative.’

This generation is the last generation that will tolerate systemic racism. They won’t stand for it. I know this from the nity, schools re ect the values, the hopes and the limitations of those with power and individuals valiantly trying to survive in a sometimes insane society. By grasping what the schools are and where they have been, people can work to shape them to blossom as places nurturing self-learning, critical thought, and commitment to nourishing people over pro ts and property.

Where to get the book e History of Denver Public Schools trilogy — “Denver School Book,” “ e School Busing Wars” and “Schools for a New Century” — are available at many local bookstores. Among them are Capitol Hill Books, the Broadway Book Mall, West Side books and Tattered Cover. e next book Goodstein is working on will explore cemetery history in the metro area, including the people who lay to rest in them. It is expected to be published in late 2023 or early 2024. teenagers at the schools (she’s worked at). They’re vocal about wrongdoings. planet. e play on words will entice readers to question who really is an expatriate. iTalli, in many ways, is a version of many DACA kids that are committed to being good citizen examples and make the most of their opportunity in this country. e rst-generation Mexican workers have demonstrated outstanding work ethic and accomplishments, and I wanted to demonstrate their virtues and abilities of success in the USA. I wanted to show with Nephy — while alien beings have been visiting our planet for eons — typically seek to avoid human contact. But in this instance, a relationship-friendship was formed by two very di erent individuals, yet both aliens.

What’s next?

What do you hope readers get out of your book/s?

I hope to give parents dialogue to use with their children when they discuss difficult topics. Some parents say nothing on these topics because they do not know what to say. I give parents the language to use with their children to open doors of communication and educate children.

What did you find most enjoyable about writing iTalli and Nephy’s story?

Where to get the book

All of Anthony Garcia’s books are available online. He also showcases his books, and is available for a meet-and-greet every First Friday at Denver’s Museo de las Americas, 861 Santa Fe Drive.

What’s next?

Garcia is working on a play version of his 2017 book, “Watili, the Native American Slave Heroine.” He is also working on a book about the coming together of spirituality and religion, inspired by his October 2022 completion of the Camino de Santiago, which is a pilgrimage of medieval origin. Its various routes all nish in northern Spain.

Where to get the book

All of Julie Federico’s books can be found on her website, juliefederico.com. Federico is also available to speak at parenting groups, schools, foster agencies and youth-serving organizations. Her contact information can be found on the website.

What’s next?

Federico has a couple of ideas for parenting books. Her ideas include tough parenting issues such as how to keep your kids and teens safe, and how to connect with your teen.

Mile High Happenings is a monthly column featuring community events throughout Denver, highlighting events that take place in the central and central-south neighborhoods covered by the Washington Park Pro le and Life on Capitol Hill newspapers.

Event submissions from community members and organizations are welcome. Submissions should include brief details about the event and a photo

April 7-30

Kyle Banister: Memories from the Backseat

Time: Varies.

Location: RPO Framing & Gallery, 1588 S. Pearl St., Denver.

Cost: Free.

e “Memories from the Backseat” gallery exhibit, hosted by South Pearl Street’s RPO Framing & Gallery, will feature the work of local artist Kyle Banister. It is running in conjunction with “Oil and Aerosol,” featuring the work of Ian Rumley and Dane Olsen, at Hazel art bar, 1581 S Pearl St. For the First Friday exhibit opening, the GoGo Beat Girls will be performing several times from 6-9 p.m. April 7 at RPO Framing.

More information/reservations: Bob Platz, owner of RPO Framing & Gallery: 303-715-3828; bobplatz@yahoo. com

Courtesy Image

April 8

Denver

Philharmonic

Orchestra: Wild Wild West e Denver Philharmonic Orchestra welcomes Principal Guest Conductor Mark Mast for a Wild Wild West collection to include performances of Cecil E nger’s “Variations on a Cowboy Tune,” Tom Taylor’s “Big Basin Breakdown” and Johannes Brahms’ “Symphony No. 1.” Attendees are invited to the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra’s More than Music Pre-Concert Chat from 6:30-7 p.m. and post-concert reception with the musicians.

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Location: Antonia Brico Stage at Central Presbyterian Church, 1660 Sherman St., Denver.

Cost: Varies.

More information/reservations: denverphilharmonic. org or event logo.

Image courtesy of the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra’s website.

Deadline is the 20th of each month for the event to be listed the following month. Cycle for the column’s listings will typically begin on the rst weekend of the month, depending on publication dates.

Submissions can be emailed to Christy Steadman at csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

April 7-9; April 14-15

Grapefruit Lab: Strange Bird, Queer Bird

Time: Varies.

Location: Buntport Theater, 717 Lipan St., Denver.

Cost: Name-your-own-price. is original show by Grapefruit Lab is an early-pandemic love story based on actual events. “Strange Bird, Queer Bird” tells the story of two queer people who manage to connect after only one face-to-face date before the world shuts down because of COVI-19. It denotes a hopeful tone in the personal and profound connections still happening between people despite forest res, uprisings in the streets, uncertainty and massive death.

April 8

Ballet Ariel: Firebird

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Location: Elaine Wolf Theatre at the StaenbergLoup Jewish Community Center (JCC Denver), 350 S. Dahlia St.

Cost: Varies.

Performed to Stravinsky’s score, “Firebird” is the timeless tale of a prince and his princess and the beautiful rebird that rescues them from the torments of an evil magician and his nefarious goblins. Ballet Ariel’s production is

April 12-16

Denver Auto Show e April 9 performance is a fundraiser event for the Denver Actors Fund and has a suggested donation of $20. an intriguing fusion of Michel Fokine’s original choreography and Artistic Director Ilena Norton’s reimagining of this ancient Slavic fairytale set in an enchanted, shadowy forest. More information/reservations: balletariel.org/ firebird

Time: Varies.

Location: Colorado Convention Center, 700 14th St., Denver.

Cost: $16 adults, $8 children age 6-12, 5 and younger are free. Discounted tickets are o ered to seniors on April 12, active-duty military and veterans receive half-price tickets on April 13.

Getting its start in 1903, the Denver Auto Show is the third oldest show in the nation, following shows held in New York in 1900 and Chicago in 1901. is year’s event will feature more than 20 exhibits from premier automotive brands, as well as lifestyle vehicles such as custom camper van conversions, and will highlight electric vehicles. It will include an indoor test track and an outdoor rideand-drive event.

More information/reservations: denverautoshow.com Courtesy logo.

More information/reservations: grapefruitlab.com/ shows/queer-bird (Cash and credit is also accepted at the door.)

Image courtesy of Grapefruit Lab.

Image courtesy of Ballet Ariel.

April 13

Denver Paper Fashion Show

Time: 5:30 p.m. doors and cocktail hour, 7:30 p.m. runway show.

Location: Fillmore Auditorium, 1510 N. Clarkson St., Denver.

Cost: Tickets start at $25. Denver’s annual Paper Fashion Show features haute couture fashions made entirely from paper by Colorado-area designers. is year, more than 45 design teams will be featured on the runway. e event features a cocktail hour, the runway show, DJ Simone Says, and Ya Girl Cedes will emcee the event. It is a fundraiser for e ONE Club for Creativity, which is a multi-disciplinary nonpro t that promotes collaborative creative culture throughout Colorado’s Rocky Mountain Region. is year, 20% of the proceeds will bene t Downtown Aurora Visual Arts.

More information/reservations: paperfashionshow.com

Last year’s second place winner is a fashion titled Savoir Faire on Air, by designer/artist Julie Fletcher.

Photo by Blu Hartkopp.

April 13-16

2023 Women+Film Festival

Time: Varies.

Location: Sie FilmCenter, 2510 E. Colfax Ave., Denver.

Cost: Festival passes: $75 for Denver Film members/$85 non-member; Individual film tickets: $15 for Denver Film members/$18 non-member.

e Women+Film Festival showcases documentaries, narratives, and short lms celebrating the best in women-centric programming. Additional festival events include receptions on opening night and closing night; a marketplace from noon to 5 p.m. April 15 that features local, womanowned businesses; and live Q&As with lmmakers.

More information/reservations: denverfilm.org.

“Judy Blume Forever” is one of the lms being shown at Denver Film’s Women+Film Festival. Courtesy of Prime Video.

April 15

April 22

April 13-16

XicanIndie FilmFest

Time: Varies.

Location: Su Teatro Cultural & Performing Arts Center, 721 Santa Fe Dr., Denver.

April 14

CSI: Regis Universitythe Toy Box Killer

Time: 6-9 p.m.

Location: Mountain View Room in St. Peter Claver, S.J. Hall at Regis University, 3333 Regis Blvd., Denver. Free parking is available in Lot 4 (enter via Lowell Boulevard between 52nd and 53rd avenues).

Cost: Free.

e Regis University Crime Scene Investigation Conference is presenting Jim Yontz,

DSST STEM & Creative Core Showcase

Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: CSU Spur, 4817 National Western Dr., Denver. Free parking is available in Lot N at CSU Spur.

Cost: Free.

DSST Public Schools is a network of public, free charter schools serving middle and high school students in Denver and Aurora. is event is open to the public and will showcase the work of DSST students in STEM and Creative Core programs. e event will run open-house style. Attendees will be welcome to explore CSU Spur’s other attractions at their leisure.

More information/reservations: tinyurl. com/DSST-Showcase; audrey.holmes@ scienceandtech.org; greggory.cannady@ scienceandtech.org

Image courtesy of the event’s Facebook page.

May 6-7

Cinco de Mayo “Celebrate Culture” Festival e Xicano Independent Filmmakers Festival (the XicanIndie Film Fest) is an annual four-day festival that highlights the artistry and experiences of the Latinx community in four areas: the Chicano Independent Filmmakers, Latino World Cinema, El Epoca de Oro (the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema) and Cine Mejicano.

Time: All day.

Cost: Varies.

More information/reservations: s uteatro.org; Teatro@suteatro.org; 303-296-0219 former deputy district attorney for New Mexico’s Sierra County. Yontz, who now works as a family law attorney in southern Colorado, will discuss his role prosecuting serial rapist and suspected serial killer David Parker Ray, aka the Toy Box Killer. is event is for mature audiences only. Its content will be explicit and is not suitable for children.

More information/reservations: regis.edu/signature-events/csi-regis Image courtesy of the CSI Regis program.

The Park People’s Earth Day Tree Sale

Time: Noon-2:00 p.m.

Location: City Park Greenhouse, 2500 E. 23rd Ave., Denver; and Sloan’s Lake Park, 5055 W. 17th Ave., Denver.

Cost: Tree prices range $50-$100. e Earth Day Tree Sale is a fundraiser sale to help support

April 26

Nate’s Night

Time: 8:30 p.m. concert; dinner specials begin at 5:30 p.m.

Location: Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox, 1215 20th St., Denver.

Cost: Concert tickets cost $25 general admission and $50 reserved; dinner separate.

Nate’s Night is a dinner and concert event that supports musical education for Colorado youth. All proceeds from dinner specials and concert tickets directly fund Nathan Yip Foundation projects. Proceeds have previously supported instrument donations in conjunction with the Future Arts Foundation, Swallow Hill’s summer music camp, and Inside the Orchestra. is year’s concert features Salmon Mountain, a collaboration of Adam Aijala e Park People’s e orts to equitably build the urban forest. e Park People is a nonpro t that works with Denver communities to plant trees and improve parks for a healthy, resilient future. Its Denver Digs Trees program has provided more than 60,000 free and a ordable trees to Denver residents.

More information/reservations: TheParkPeople.org, 303722-6262, info@TheParkPeople.org

April 29

Capitol Hill Concerts: Edward W. Hardy

Time: 7 pm and Ben Kaufman of Yonder Mountain String Band; Andy orn of Leftover Salmon; and special guest Bonnie Sims of Big Richard.

Location: First Unitarian Society of Denver, 1400 N. Lafayette St.

More information/reservations: Concert tickets: nathanyipfoundation.org; dinner reservations: opheliasdenver.com or 303-9938023 Courtesy logo.

Location: Civic Center Park, 101 W. 14th Ave., Denver.

Cost: Free. is annual community event is put on by NEWSED Community Development Corporation, a Denver-based nonpro t. is year’s event will feature three stages of

Cost: $20-$25 general admission. e Capitol Hill Concerts’ season nale will be a multi-genre concert (including classical, pop and original work) by composer/violinist Edward W. Hardy. Capitol Hill Concerts has a mission to o er high-caliber, musically-diverse, family-friendly concerts, while also supporting local nonpro ts. A portion of the proceeds from this show will bene t El Sistema Colorado. e concert will be livestreamed on YouTube for free but a donation is suggested.

More information/reservations: capitolhillconcerts.com a variety of live music, entertainment and dance; a parade; chihuahua races; taco eating contests; a lowrider car show; arts-andcrafts and food vendors; and more.

Photo courtesy of the Capitol Hill Concerts’ website.

More information/reservations: cincodemayodenver.com Courtesy photo.

Kswirl ice cream. Slowly and deliberately, he savored every bite.

Over at the zoo’s Tropical Discovery building, Rex, a rhinoceros iguana native to the Caribbean, munched his way through a special breed of spineless prickly pear cactus. Nearby, a shy, 40-pound capybara named Rebecca — a rodent native to Central and South America — couldn’t resist a fresh pile of water lettuce.

It was snack time at the Denver Zoo, courtesy of Production Manager Patrick Crowell and his two sta ers, Marcelle Condevaux and Keith Goode. Smiling, the three horticulturalists watched the animals polish o their greens. Crowell and his sta had grown these tropical plants in several designated City Park greenhouses, which serve as kitchen gardens for many of the zoo’s 3,000 animals. Whether it’s cardamom and ginger leaves, banana trees or hibiscus owers, the greenhouse sta enables zoo animals to eat local — even if they crave ora from across the globe. e gardeners also grow landscaping plants for animal enclosures, from tall stands of euphorbia cactus to sweet gum trees.

“We’re trying to grow as much as we can locally,” Crowell said, adding that “growing exotics can take quite a bit of research.” e greenhouse specialties are grown without pesticides, using recycled water. All of this saves money the zoo would otherwise spend importing tropical plants from Florida. e production sta works closely with the zoo’s battery of veterinarians and nutritionists. Animal diets have come a long way since 1896 when the Denver Zoo began with a single caged bear cub, named Billy Bryan, in City Park. Although history does not record what Billy ate, it would probably make today’s zoo nutritionists shudder. ese days, animal diets are strictly controlled in order to keep them healthy. Often, that means adding the right vegetation.

One greenhouse holds a grove of banana trees, which are especially useful, since every part of the plant can be used. Crowell said the fruit is fed to fruit bats while the oppy leaves are popular snacks for many animals, including sloths and smaller reptiles — as well as great apes. Elephants and rhinos chew the banana stalks, which increases their ber intake and acts as a natural toothbrush.

“We get calls if an animal is ill,” Crowell said.

Many of the plants in the zoo greenhouses have medicinal qualities. Crowell said that leaves from the ginger and cardamon plants help prevent heart problems in great apes. Colorful blue, green and yellow lorikeets — a small parrot from Australia — keep their feathers healthy by pecking at hibiscus owers. According to Crowell, the pollen and nectar of these owers supply the birds with important amino acids.

Some plants are equally important to animals’ mental health. e Denver Zoo earned its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums by taking animal well-being seriously

— and that requires plenty of the branches, twigs and leaves known as browse. Cuttings from a range of trees and shrubs, including willow, mulberry, and butter y bush, are important not just for nutrition but also to encourage natural activities like foraging. For example, Crowell said, Tun- dra, the female grizzly bear, enjoys stripping and eating the leaves o hackberry branches while the zoo’s Mongolian horses prefer to chew bark o cottonwood logs. Elephants and primates like to exercise their teeth on bamboo stalks. e two have been in the restaurant business for more than 25 years and are co-owners of Tocabe, an American Indian-speci c restaurant that has a took a year and a half, but in January, they began production for the Directto-Tribe Ready Meal program.

Several passive solar greenhouses known as hoop houses help extend the growing season for browse.

And whenever it’s time to prune trees and bushes in City Park, Crowell and his team are there, collecting boughs, twigs and leaves. Crowell also roams the zoo’s 80 acres, searching for under-utilized patches of dirt where he and his sta can grow additional browse in the summer months. Last year, they supplied more than 1,300 pounds of leafy trimmings to zoo denizens.

When the zoo’s urban farmers aren’t running loads of produce over to hungry zebras and gira es, they are searching for more ways to maximize every square foot of growing space. Even the rafters of the Tropical Discovery building are being put to use, with a hydroponic growing table that nourishes crops of collard greens. According to Crowell, many animals love nutrient-dense greens like collard and dandelion. Perhaps we humans should take a few dining cues from the zoo.

Ben Jacobs, a member of Osage Nation, and Matt Chandra’s dream is to build a native peoples’ food supply chain.

And recently, this became a reality for them.

“What we are providing (is) not just a meal,” Jacobs said. “It’s traditional, meaningful ingredients.”

It’s meant to bring joy, he added.

Jacobs’ name is rising nationally. He was appointed in March to President Biden’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition. e federal advisory committee that aims to promote healthy, council, including basketball great Stephen Curry and his restaurateur wife, Ayesha Curry, former baseball player Ryan Howard and former women’s basketball player Tamika Catchings, among others.

A seed to soul program

Tocabe’s dedication to its cultural roots were cited along with Biden’s announcement. It has what it calls a seed to soul mission, meaning it aims to create meals that support native people enous Marketplace, which is an online store that has ingredients sourced from aged at a facility in Greenwood Village Fort Trotten, North Dakota. As of early March, 4,400 meals were delivered and the next delivery in April will supply three months of food.

Once the meals are delivered, the Spirit Lake community has the freedom to distribute them as they see t. ere are no stipulations for eligibility or parameters limiting how the meals are distributed.