Life on Capitol Hill August 2023

TINY TITANS

Dogdrop Denver

A new doggie daycare has opened in Denver’s Hale neighborhood.

Dogdrop is a women-founded business that got its start in downtown Los Angeles. Dina Silverman will be the company’s rst franchisee with the opening of Dogdrop Denver, 985 Albion St.

Dogdrop focuses on socialization, play and positive reinforcement for dogs. e Denver location boasts three playrooms tailored for each dog’s energy level, ranging from high to medium to low, states a news release. It will o er curbside drop o and pick up and exible memberships beginning at $60/month and $10 per hour.

To learn more, visit dogdrop.co/locations/denver-location-page.

Peak

Health Direct Primary Care

A new healthprovider has recently opened on South Pearl

Peak Health Direct Primary Care uses the direct primary care model.

e direct primary care model is a payment model in which patients pay their provider directly in the form of a monthly or annual fee, replacing the traditional system of third-party insurance coverage for primary care services. Membership covers the cost of many primary care services, including preventative, wellness and chronic care services.

“I started Peak Health Direct Primary Care to spread the mission of improving health in Denver via a holistic approach,” said Peter Yu, the o ce’s founder who is a

Casey Jones

Denver’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-themed pizza joint, called Casey Jones, has closed.

Located at 24

N. Broadway, Casey Jones was a 21+ venue describing itself as an “elevated dive bar.”

It was a concept of the Denver-based Handsome Boys Hospitality, which boasts about 20 nightlife concepts in the Denver area.

To learn more about Handsome Boys Hospitality, visit handsomeboys.com.

Denver Black Reparations Council

Fifteen Denver-based Black-led and Black-serving organizations received grants from the Denver Black Reparations Council (DBRC) in the rst half of 2023, totaling $123,200.

“ rough these grants, we aim to address historical inequities and create a more just society for all,” said Arthur McFarlane II, co-chair of the Denver Black Reparations Council, in a news release.

“We extend our own heartfelt gratitude to the grant recipients for their impactful work and commitment to empowering Black individuals

Basic Cash Assistance Program

A new program will provide eligible Denver residents who have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic or its aftermath with a direct cash assistance payment from the American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Called the Basic Cash Assistance Program, it is a program of the Denver Agency for Human Rights & Community Partnerships and its Denver O ce of Immigrant & Refugee A airs, and Impact Charitable, which is a nonpro t organization.

Denver’s plan includes direct distribution of $308 million in ARPA Local Relief Funds, which was recently approved by Denver City Council. e program allows for eligible Denver residents to receive $1,000 or $1,500, which is meant to improve nancial security and support families in meeting basic needs.

Applications for the assistance will open soon. To learn about eligibility requirements and more about the program, visit tinyurl.com/BasicCashAssistanceProgram.

Courtesy logo.

Denver Public Library

e Denver Public Library has announced that it will be open for additional hours at several of its locations, and the reopening of the BlairCaldwell African American Research Library.

e following locations will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays: Green Valley Ranch Branch Library, Sam Gary Branch Library, Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library, Hadley Branch Library and Hampden Branch Library.

Each of those libraries will also have one day each week during which it will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. To nd out which weekday each of the locations will be open until 8 p.m., visit denverlibrary.org/locations.

Plans are in the works to add hours at other locations as well.

e extended hours are thanks to the Strong Library, Strong Denver supported by the Denver Public Library Fund, which voters passed in November 2022. Learn more at denlib.org/ stronglibrary.

Native American Bank/Denver Indian Center

e Denver Indian Center’s Honoring Fatherhood Program was the recipient of 25 bicycles gifted by Native American Bank through the Wish for Wheels organization.

e bikes were assembled by Native American Bank employees as part of an employee team project.

“We had a lot of fun building these bikes,” said Tom Ogaard, Native American Bank president, in

High 5 Cares

High 5 Cares, which is a charitable program of High 5 Plumbing, celebrated its ve-year anniversary in July. e High 5 Cares program spotlights a di erent Denver-area nonpro t through the use of social media, and supports them through monetary donations. During the spotlight period for each nonpro t, High 5 Plumbing donates a dedicated amount of $3,000, plus

Photo by Dina Silverman via press kit from Dogdrop.

SEE COUNCIL, P3

SEE CENTER, P3

PRIMARY CARE

Denver resident. “We are dedicated to hearing about your goals and helping you achieve them. We strive for great outcomes so you can live the life you were meant to without the burdens of healthcare holding you back. Peak Health DPC is bringing medicine back to what it was meant to be but with updated technology, providing you with easy access to primary care services and optimizing your health to reach your peak health.”

Peak Health Direct Primary Care o ers both monthly and yearly membership packages — with both individual and group plans available — which provides

patients with nearly an unlimited number of visits with their primary care physician per year. If or when additional labs are needed, Peak Health Direct Primary Care works directly with the lab to o er these at or near cost.

e o ce o ers both in-person and video visits, convenient appointment times — including during evenings and weekends — and can typically accommodate sameor next- day appointments.

Peak Health Direct Primary Care is located at1855 S. Pearl St. Unit 4, which is located in Denver’s Platt Park neighborhood. Learn more at peakhealthDPC.com.

Peter Yu is the founder of Peak Health Direct Primary Care in Denver. Photo courtesy of Peak Health Direct Primary Care.

LIBRARY

FROM PAGE 2

e Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, 2401 Welton St. in the Five Points neighborhood, reopened on Aug. 7, following its May 2022 closure for renovations.

It is now open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and ursdays; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays; and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

e renovations are part of the Elevate Denver Bond that voters passed in 2017. Renovations include a redesigned rst oor, a new teen space, new study rooms, refreshed community meetings rooms and cosmetic improvements on the second and third oors.

ON THE COVER

FROM PAGE 2

and communities. Together, we can build a future that embraces healing, resilience and lasting change.”

To nd a list of all 15 nonpro ts, including links to each of their websites, visit washparkpro le.com/ businessmatters or lifeoncaphill. com/businessmatters.

e “Denver Black Reparations

CENTER

FROM PAGE 2

a news release. “We have a real commitment to invest in our communities and giving these bikes to fathers and kids is just one of the ways we are able to do that and have a positive impact.”

e Denver Indian Center is a nonpro t that serves the American Indian and Alaska Native community of Denver metro area through a variety of programming. It is located in Denver’s Westwood neighborhood. To learn more, visit denverindiancenter.org.

Council prioritizes funding for organizations that focus on remedying societal and institutional acts that continue to negatively impact the economic and social progress of African Americans residing in Colorado,” states its website. Learn more at denverblackreparationscouncil.org.

On June 28, a number of local nonpro ts hosted a celebration to thank the Denver Black Reparations Council for its grant donations.

the wellbeing of kids, families and communities through the gift of a brand new bike and helmet,” states its website. Learn more at wishforwheels.org.

Native American Bank is the only national American Indian-owned CDFI bank in the country. It is owned by Tribal and Alaska Native Corporations in 19 states along with four collaborative partners. Its Colorado location is at 201 Broadway, which is on the border of Denver’s Baker and Speer neighborhoods. For more information about Native American Bank, visit nabna.com.

e Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library is a full-service branch library and is one of ve African American research libraries part of a public library system in the United States. It houses collection archives and has a museum dedicated to Denver’s African American community.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the community is invited to a reopening ribbon cutting ceremony from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Aug. 12. e event will include refreshments, entertainment and programming.

To learn more about Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, visit history.denverlibrary.org/about-blair.

Logo courtesy of the Denver Public Library.

Wish for Wheels is a nonpro t that serves communities across the nation with a mission to “empower

HIGH 5 CARES

FROM PAGE 2

A child enjoys the rst ride on a new bike. Native American Bank employees assembled 25 bikes for the Denver Indian Center. Photo courtesy of Native American Bank. any additional funds generated from employee donations and profits from the High 5 clothing line.

Since its inception, nearly $82,000 has been donated to more than 40 di erent nonpro ts.

Being spotlighted in July and August is Clothes To Kids of Denver, a nonpro t based in Denver’s University Hills neighborhood. Learn more at clothestokidsdenver.org.

High 5 Plumbing is a familyowned and operated business co-owned by Levi and Cassi Torres founded in 2012. e small business serves customers across the greater metro area out of its main location in north Denver, 850 E. 73rd Ave. Unit 4, and its Littleton location at 8000 S. Lincoln St. Unit 3. To learn more about High 5 Plumbing, visit high5plumbing.com.

e Colorado Chapter of HopeKids was the May and June 2023 recipient of the High 5 Cares program. Photo courtesy of High 5 Plumbing.

Photo by Sylvia Lambe.

Jacob Lemanski inside his space called Ant Life in downtown Denver.

Story on Page 8.

PHOTO BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

On Sept. 12, 2001, legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma was scheduled to perform Antonín Dvořák’s Cello Concerto with the Denver Symphony. e day prior to the performance, the United States was shaken by the events of 9/11, one of the most tragic losses of life in American history.

Colorado Symphony cellist, Margaret Hoeppner, vividly remembers Ma’s performance that night. Instead of playing the planned Dvořák piece, Yo-Yo Ma decided to play Edward Elgar’s Cello Concerto, a composition written in the aftermath of World War I. As the Colorado Symphony’s longest tenured member with 62 seasons under her belt, the performance after 9/11 is Hoeppner’s most powerful, moving memory as a part of the orchestra.

“Ma’s performance brought the audience and the orchestra a sense of solace and some comfort during that terribly difcult time. For me it was a sense that life will go on and that we will recover from this horrible tragedy,” said Hoeppner. “Because of the beauty of his performance, it gave us all hope. It gave me hope that we would survive and that this is something we would recover from.”

For the 2023-2024 Centennial Season of the Colorado Symphony, Yo-Yo Ma will return to Denver to play Elgar’s Cello Concerto, the same piece that brought comfort to concert-goers in the wake of 9/11. Ma will perform along with the Colorado Symphony at 7 p.m. on May 5 at Boettcher Concert Hall at the Denver Performing Arts Complex. is is one of more than 150 performances o ered by the Colorado Symphony throughout the season.

e Colorado Symphony is celebrating 100 years of symphonic music in Colorado. e 2023-2024 season is highlighted by a trio of

COLORADO SYMPHONY READIES FOR CENTENNIAL SEASON

must-see performances featuring Audra McDonald, Renée Fleming and, of course, the legendary Yo-Yo Ma. Led by Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian, Colorado Symphony patrons will be treated to a schedule teeming with incredible programming, renowned guest artists and revered symphonic works all season long. To kick o the Centennial Season, the Colorado Symphony will perform Beethoven’s Fifth along with several other works on Sept. 15-17.

“ is centennial season will highlight the best of the Colorado Symphony,” said Oundjian. “We’re doing some really huge projects. We will keep doing programs that I think will engage people enormously. We are going to keep people excited with every performance.”

History of the Colorado Symphony

e Colorado Symphony has a rich history that dates back to 1922 when its predecessor, the Civic Symphony Orchestra, formed in Denver. Prior to 1922, there were several semi-professional music acts scattered across Denver, but no formal orchestra. At the height of

the Great Depression, Helen Marie Black, publicist for the Civic Symphony Orchestra, helped form the Denver Symphony Orchestra in 1934. Her goal was to consolidate the local musicians, boost audience attendance and guarantee union wages. e orchestra held its rst concert at the Broadway eater in Denver on Nov. 30, 1934, led by Conductor Horace Tureman.

After a 55-year run, the Denver Symphony Orchestra disbanded in 1989 as the result of nancial hardship. It led for bankruptcy on Oct. 4 of that year. Musicians left the Denver Symphony Orchestra for the newlyformed Colorado Symphony, which played its rst concert on Oct. 27, 1989.

e following year, the two groups merged to form one organization.

Since its inception in 1989, the Colorado Symphony has had ve recorded principal conductors, beginning with Marin Alsop in 1993. e current principal conductor, Oundjian, has served in the role since 2022.

One hundred years ago, the symphony in Colorado was di erent than it is today. From a small group of semiprofessional local musicians,

grown to meet the needs and wants of the changing audience. e Colorado Symphony not only performs classical works from composers like Mozart, Brahms and Tchaikovsky, but it also performs contemporary pieces, pop songs and soundtracks from fanfavorite lms. is year the Colorado Symphony will have several performances outside of the classical genre. ese include “Star Wars: A New Hope in Concert,” “Disney in Concert: Time Burton’s e Nightmare Before Christmas” and “Home Alone in Concert.” ere will also be performances for children like the “Halloween Spooktacular,” “Elf in Concert” and “Peter and e Wolf & e Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.”

the Colorado Symphony has grown in size and in the diversity of its members. e Symphony currently has 80 full-time musicians, representing more than a dozen countries around the world.

The Colorado Symphony today Denver is a vibrant city full of people who yearn to experience the arts. From taking in contemporary paintings at the Denver Art Museum to seeing hip hop concerts at Red Rocks, and from watching classic works performed by the Colorado Ballet to laughing at stand-up acts at Comedy Works, locals love to get out and experience the best of Colorado arts.

“Twenty years ago, people said Colorado was just a great place for the mountains — a great place for sport. at is what people were interested in. I feel there has been a huge shift in what people in Denver want,” Oundjian said. “We had the biggest crowds ever at Boettcher Concert Hall last year. Nobody moves to Denver to just sit inside and watch TV. Colorado is all about getting out there.”

roughout the 100 years of symphonic music in Colorado, performances and o erings have shifted and

“In the last 10 years, there has been a tremendous shift from the Colorado Symphony. It is one of the great leaders in the evolution of programming. ey collaborate with musicians from every possible musical genre and from lm,” said Oundjian. “We have absolutely cuttingedge music, world premieres and also the beautiful performances of the great classics. Sometimes we perform these classics juxtaposed to a contemporary piece. We try to keep the program very alive so that the people are attracted to as much of it as possible. You’re not going to appeal to every person in Denver, every night. We try to present, over the course of the season, all of the great elements of the musical art form.”

Oundjian said the Colorado Symphony’s milestone could not have been reached without the longstanding and overwhelming support of the community.

“ is season carries special signi cance as we celebrate 100 years of music and look ahead to the next century of music making in Colorado,” said Oundjian.

“ is celebration belongs as much to you and our state as it does to our orchestra, and we can’t wait to share the excitement with you all season long.”

Peter Oundjian, the Colorado Symphony’s principal conductor.

For more information on the Colorado Symphony, visit coloradosymphony.org.

The Colorado Symphony and Chorus performs under the direction of Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian. PHOTOS BY AMANDA TIPTON/COURTESY OF THE COLORADO SYMPHONY

Denver’s Wellness Winnie program adding vehicles, services

are wanting those services.”

e city’s bright purple eet of RV buses and vans is on a mission to change these statistics for the better, by bringing straightforward, e ective care directly to the people who need it.

BY NATALIE KERR SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

e demand for behavioral health services is massively outpacing supply, to the tune of more than 40% of Denver residents not being able to receive care, despite attempting to obtain it, according to a 2023 report from the Denver O ce for Public Health and Environment.

It’s a situation caused by myriad factors — overworked sta , nancial barriers for patients and complicated, time-consuming processes that block people from ultimately receiving treatment.

“ ere’s just not enough behavioral health services for folks to access,” said Kalyn Horst, administrator for DPHE Substance Use and Prevention. “And of those that exist, they may not be o ered in a way that feels culturally competent, and approachable and appropriate for people that

e Wellnesss Winnie program is adding two Mini Winnies and a larger Super Winnie medical RV to its eet this fall. ey will be stationed around the city at least once per week. e Winnies will also have expanded services provided by an advanced practitioner and registered nurse who can provide clinical services like wound care and medically assisted treatment to those who need it.

e Mini Winnies will also be available upon request for community events and gatherings where organizers believe the services could be bene cial. e vans are highly mobile, so they can go where a need exists, reducing transportation barriers to care.

“Our response now is, people are needing help, and they’re already there,” Horst said. “By Wellness Winnie being there, it’s not that we’re bringing the people to us, we are

coming to the people.”

Additionally, the Wellness Winnie program is partnering with Denver Public Schools to offer services at six community hubs connected to local elementary schools in higher-needs neighborhoods within all of Denver’s regions, Horst said. The six hubs are Place Bridge Academy in the Washington Virginia Vale neighborhood, Colfax Elementary in the

To learn more about the Wellness Winnie, visit tinyurl.com/Wellness-WinnieDenver.

West Colfax neighborhood, Smith Elementary in Northeast Park Hill, Focus Points Family Resource Center in Elyria Swansea, John H.

The Denver O ce for Public Health and Environment is expanding its fleet of Wellness Winnies. This fall, the city will be adding two Mini Winnies, pictured in front, and a Super Winnie medical RV to the original Wellness Winnie vehicle, pictured in the back.

Neighborhoods that need it most will have more access to medical care

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Spending time with your pooch during Denver’s dog days of summer

The dog days of summer are here and there’s a lot of fun to be had in Denver, especially if you have a dog.

But before we get to the fun, it’s important to remind ourselves just how hot it is outside. is time of year is typically the hottest in the city and already we’ve had a few scorchers. So, we must ensure that our furry friends are safe so that they have as much fun as we humans do.

Play in one of Denver’s beautiful parks

Denver has some lovely parks, and both humans and dogs love visiting them. Remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times, as those who fail to do so are subject to a ne. It’s also a good idea to bring extra water and a bowl for your pet. And don’t forget your poop bags (although many parks have them available if you forget).

indoor pools speci cally for dogs. Canine Fitness & Fun Center, which is located on Evans Avenue bordering Denver’s Virginia Village and Goldsmith neighborhoods, o ers a 4-foot-deep pool with an on-duty lifeguard and a viewing area for the dog parent. It costs $18 for one group swim and $32 for one private swim, with packages for multiple swims available.

Go window shopping and dining with your pooch

Christy Steadman

Too much time in the hot sun can lead to heat stroke for dogs, which can be life-threatening. is goes for being in a hot car as well. So even a quick errand while your dog is left in the car is unsafe because temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels in minutes. Additionally, if you leave a pet inside a hot car you may be subject to a summons for animal cruelty, which carries a ne of up to $999 and/or 300 days in jail, according to Denver Animal Protection.

Bottom line is that it is best to leave your pooch at home if at any point you would subject them to an unattended stay in a hot vehicle.

Now for the fun adventures you can both have this summer.

ere are also many dog-speci c parks where dogs can run about without a leash. Denver Parks & Recreation operates 12 o -leash parks throughout the city. Find a nearby dog park online at tinyurl.com/DogParksDenver.

Take your dog swimming

Just outside of Denver, two nearby state parks boast o -leash areas where dogs can also play in water. South of the city, Chat eld State Park’s dog o -leash area o ers 69 acres of fenced open space and two ponds. East of Denver, Cherry Creek State Park’s dog o -leash area o ers 107 acres of fenced open space with the creek owing through it. Remember that these o -leash areas require a pass for entrance in addition to the per-vehicle entrance fee or regular annual state parks pass. Learn more about the state parks or buy passes at cpw.state.co.us.

And, there are other places dogs can swim. Some rec centers o er a doggie swim day at the end of the season, but there are some commercial

Although many shops do not allow pets inside the store, window shopping and strolling along 16th Street Mall, Cherry Creek North and/or South Pearl Street can make for a fun outing. Something to keep in mind, though, is that hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws. Denver Animal Protection suggests doing a test with your bare hands: “If you can’t hold your bare hand on (the) pavement for 10 seconds, then it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.”

Denver is a dog-friendly city, so many restaurants, breweries and other similar venues all across the city allow leashed, well-behaved dogs on their patios. Some even have doggie treats and dog bowls for water to keep your pet happy while you dine. If you’re unsure if the place you want to go allows dogs on their patio, call the location ahead of time to check.

Have fun in Denver on these dog days summer with your pooch.

Tips to stay safe in Colorado’s hot summer months

Yes, Colorado has had an unusually long stretch of damp, cloudy weather in a state that typically enjoys soaring temperatures and plenty of sunshine. But the sunshine is back and temps are rising which, as always, means more time relaxing, exercising and playing in Colorado’s great outdoors.

On the heels of Denver’s third hottest summer in recorded history in 2022, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting 2023 could likely be one of the Top 10 warmest years on record in much of the U.S., and could possibly approach the Top 5, according to scientists.

For people of all ages — and especially older adults — the risks associated with high temperatures and increased UV rays are very real, from small bouts of dehydration to a full-blown, life-threatening medical emergency. A combination of factors make the preparation for higher temps and more time in the sun that much more important.

According to the National Institute on Aging,

people age 65 years and older are more prone to heat-related problems, as our bodies do not adjust as well to sudden changes in temperature like they did when we were younger. In addition, older adults are more likely to have chronic medical conditions and/or more likely to be taking prescription medications that can a ect the body’s ability to control its temperature or sweat.

Being overheated for too long or exposed to the sun without protection can cause many health problems including:

• Heat syncope: sudden dizziness that can occur when active in hot weather.

• Heat cramps: painful tightening or spasms of muscles in the stomach, arms or legs.

• Heat edema: swelling in ankles and feet when you get hot.

• Heat rash: skin irritation from heavy sweating that causes red clusters of small blisters that look similar to pimples on the skin.

• Heat exhaustion: a warning that your body can no longer keep itself cool. You might feel thirsty, dizzy, weak, uncoordinated and nauseated. You may sweat a lot. Your body temperature may stay normal, but your skin may feel cold and clammy. Some people with heat exhaustion have a rapid

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pulse. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke. If you or someone you are with begin to show any signs of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler environment as quickly as possible — preferably a well air-conditioned room. Loosen clothing, sponge o or bathe with cool water, lie down and rest.

• Heat stroke: a medical emergency in which the body’s temperature rises above 104°F. Signs of heat stroke are fainting; confusion or acting strangely; not sweating even when it’s hot; dry, ushed skin; strong, rapid pulse; or a slow, weak pulse. When a person has any of these symptoms, they should seek medical help right away and immediately move to a cooler place, such as under shade or indoors. ey should also take action to lower their body temperature with cool clothes, a cool bath or shower, and fans.

But the added risks don’t mean you have to stop doing the things you love. It just means taking the time to prepare for your outdoor fun.

Some of the most e ective preventive measures include:

• Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher).

• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose tting,

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Columnists & Guest Commentaries

Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of Life in Cap Hill. We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone. Email letters to csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Deadline 5 p.m. on the 20th of each month for the following month’s paper.

Stacey Johnson

Get excited about heirloom tomatoes

summer approaching, we enthusiastically wait for the rst fruits of the vine.

GUEST COLUMN

Josie Hart

The essence of summer for me is a freshly picked tomato, and if you are a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) member or visit farmer’s markets, I am sure you love the rainbow of colors that come from heirloom tomatoes. At the Denver Botanic Gardens Chat eld Farms’ CSA, we get super excited about new nds, old classics and interesting adapted heirlooms that we can add to our o erings. Of course, tomato season starts well before the summer — deep in the winter, when the snow is falling, tomato growers pursue seed catalogues with all sorts of tomato varieties. Now, with mid-

I would like to share three varieties we are most excited about for this season. ese varieties are heirloom or more accurately, ‘open pollinated’ tomatoes, which means a saved seed from the fruit will have very similar characteristics as the original plant.

Carbon ese black heirloom tomatoes are heavy feeders and have a high tolerance for drought and hot growing conditions. Carbon tomatoes are open pollinated, which means they use natural pollinators

cotton clothing, including long sleeves and a breathable hat.

• Take frequent rest periods.

• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.

• Drink plenty of liquids. Try a

measured water bottle to track your progress — some water bottles are connected to an app on your smart phone to remind you to drink. Water, fruit or vegetable juices, or drinks that include electrolytes are best. Avoid alcohol and ca einated drinks.

• Get outside earlier in the day and try to avoid outdoor activities during the heat of the day, which is typically mid to late afternoon.

MAZING DENVER WITH WARREN STOKES

Do you see us?

• Don’t rely on perspiration to cool you down, some people just don’t sweat as much as they age. Getting outdoors and enjoying the sun and warmer temps should stay on everyone’s to-do list. However, a few basic precautions and awareness of what to look for and when to shut things down will help deliver a fun, safe summer for Coloradans of all

ages.

Stacey Johnson, RN, NHA, is the area director of Clinical Services for Ascent Living Communities, which includes Carillon at Belleview Station in Greenwood Village, Hilltop Reserve in Denver, the Village at Belmar in Lakewood and Roaring Fork Senior Living in Glenwood Springs.

This maze art is meant to bring attention to an event that is designed to provide African American teens with an opportunity to have their voices heard through sharing collective experiences and community building. The 2023 African American Teen Summit, which is being put on by the local nonprofit Our Mindful Kingdom, takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 11 at the Pavilion at Central Park, 8801 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Denver. It is free to attend and will include a Teen Talk session, a Parents Pavilion, panel discussions, networking, and an art expo and party that will include teen entrepreneurs and creatives. A box lunch will be provided. To learn more about the summit, visit ourmindfulkingdom.org. To solve this maze, start at any S — located on both pinky fingers and both palms of the hands — and maze-out to the W for win where the index fingers connect.

SEE TOMATOES, P15 Heirloom tomatoes.

PHOTO BY SCOTT DRESSEL-MARTIN

Ant Life prompts human pondering in Denver

BY CHRISTY STEADMAN CSTEADMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

While Jacob Lemanski was circling the globe on his bicycle, the only thing he missed was his ant farm. It was one of the few possessions he’d kept before setting out on his adventure. He built it himself, using scrap sheets of plastic and he set a dim light behind it to illuminate the ant tunnels.

Lemanski’s cycling adventure entailed circling the world twice — a feat that took him 999 days, almost three years. Nearly all of his time was solitary, aside from the friendly waves and saying a casual hello to the thousands of people along his route, which consisted of traversing six continents.

During the long stretches of pedaling, Lemanski had a lot of time to reect. He often thought about his ant farm. So, when he returned home, Lemanski, who has a background in mechanical and aerospace engineering, set out to build the “world’s most beautiful ant farm.”

Lemanski created a living habitat with a colorful backdrop of nebulae and stars that reacts to the colorchanging lights built within the frame.

Once built, Lemanski spent many

hours looking at it — observing the ants as they tunneled and watching the roots of various plants as they grew in the soil.

Watching the ant farm became meditation for him.

“Every time I looked, it was di erent, and I was mesmerized,” Lemanski said. “Watching it become something is the fun of it.”

Lemanski then built a second ant farm, then a third. Eventually, it became a collection of eight. Lemanski got a patent on them, and in June last year, opened a space to publicly display them at 2150 Market St. in

To learn more about Ant Life, visit antlife.space. There is a time lapse video of an ant farm on the website, as well as a contact page to inquire about tours of the space and booking it for an event.

downtown Denver.

Today, he has 11 illuminated ant farms for everyone to enjoy. Filling a couple of the walls inside the larger Ant Life venue, Lemanski calls the display “the Ant Space.” Each of these framed ant farms is unique, and will be di erent with every visit. It’s living wall art, Lemanski said.  “It only exists in the present because it’s constantly changing,” he added.

Additional original artwork displayed inside Ant Life is what Lemanski calls Space Screens. ese are close-up images – some are photographs of plants and other objects that Lemanski took on his cycling adventure – on dyed velvet that are hung from a light bar to create a dynamic, psychedelic wall hanging. He o ers Ant Life guests a pair of 3D glasses to enhance the viewing experience.

“Whenever I am at Ant Life, I feel a sense of peace staring into the art as the lights pulsate colors and shift my perception of what I see,” said Kelsey Armeni, who visits Ant Life on a regular basis. “I know that in the midst of an event, I can take a break from socializing to go and stare and connect back to my

breath and the simplicity of ants digging through the cosmos.”

Lemanski originally opened Ant Life as an art gallery — everything in it is available for purchase — but the space soon found its calling as an events venue.

Since its opening, Lemanski has hosted a variety of corporate and private events there — from birthdays and weddings to gaming and movie nights. e Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies even hosted one of its events at Ant Life when the association was in Denver in June for its Psychedelic Science conference. And about once a month, Ant Life hosts the popup market, Magic Makers Market.

“ is venue has been the biggest blessing to the event promoters here in Denver,” said Anthony Sabia, founder of Shroomski Magazine, who hosts events at Ant Life. “It’s designed with the intention to give you something fascinating to look at. e decorating has already been done, and any guest that comes in there is practically left speechless.”

Lemanski enjoys the variety of events that take place at Ant Life. And he happily schedules free, private tours of the space for anyone who wants to see it. He’ll carry on friendly conversations about the art and ask visitors what they see in it.

And “everyone sees something di erent,” Lemanski said.

Wall art called Space Screens cover the walls at Jacob Lemanski’s Ant Life in Denver.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

Jacob Lemanski inside his space called Ant Life in downtown Denver.

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

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

event and a photo or event logo. Deadline is the 20th of each month for the event to be listed the following month. Submissions can be emailed to Christy Steadman at csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

For more Mile High Happenings, visit lifeoncaphill.com or washparkprofile.com.

August and September

Denver Municipal Band: free concerts in the park

Time: Varies.

Location: Multiple.

Cost: Free.

Bright Nights at Four Mile

Time: 7-10 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday; and 7-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Location: Four Mile Historic Park, 715 S. Forest St., Denver.

Cost: non-member: $25 adult and $15 child (3-12 years); member: $22 adult and $13 child.

Co-produced by Four Mile Historic Park and Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc., Bright Nights at Four Mile o ers an opportunity to experience an enormous interactive exhibit with larger-than-life sculptures that illuminate the grounds of the park’s 12 acres. Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc. is a national Chinese lantern festival producer, and according to a press release, its 10week run at Four Mile Historic Park in Denver will be the only opportunity to experience a Tianyu festival in the mountain west.

More information/reservations: fourmilepark. org/brightnights

Pink Floyd - The Dark Side of the Moon

Time: O ered daily at 4:15 p.m.; and Friday nights at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m., 8 p.m.

Location: Gates Planetarium at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd.

Cost: Museum admission plus special ticket to the planetarium. is planetarium experience will take attendees on a tour of the solar system while celebrating the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s album, “ e Dark Side Of e Moon.” It features state-of-the-art technology for the music and visuals, with nods to the band’s iconic imagery. Appropriate for all ages but recommended for 8 years and older.

More information/reservations: dmns.org

Photo credit: NSC Creative and Pink Floyd.

e Denver Municipal Band is putting on many free concerts in the park throughout Denver this summer. ese are the August and September concerts:

Aug. 12: Cranmer Park, 7-8:30 p.m. (DMB Concert Band and neighborhood celebration)

Aug. 17: Central Park North Green, 6-8 p.m. (DMB Concert Band)

Aug. 18: Bates & Hobart Park, 7-8:30 p.m. (DMB Jazz Band)

Aug. 19: Platt Park, 6:30-8 p.m. (DMB Brass

International Rescue Committee’s Welcome Home fundraising gala

Time: 6 p.m.

Location: Washington Park Boathouse, 701 S. Franklin St., Denver.

Cost: Tickets start at $75.

e International Rescue Committee’s second annual Welcome Home fundraising gala will raise funds for IRC’s refugee resettlement programs for its Denver clients. IRC is a not-

Meow Wolf’s Monster Battle

Time: 4-9 p.m.

Location: The Pavilion at Cheesman Park, 1900 E. 11th Ave., Denver.

Cost: Free. is all-ages event will provide attendees an opportunity to dance and showcase your best monster costume — whether it be cute, scary, silly or serious. ere will be games and a costume contest. Entertainment will be provided by DJ Snaggy and more TBA. No tickets or RSVPs required. Getting its start in 2008 in Santa Fe, this is the rst time for Denver to host a Meow Wolf Monster Battle. A Monster Battle Makers Workshop will take place from 2-5 p.m. Aug. 5 at Factory Fashion

Quintet and Family Movie Night)

Aug. 26: Mayfair Park, 6-7:30 p.m. (DMB Jazz Band)

Sept. 2: Central Park South 6-7:15 p.m. (DMB Jazz Band)

Sept. 9: Pulaski Park 6:30-8 p.m. (DMB Jazz Band)

More information/reservations: denvermunicipalband.org

Photo courtesy of the Denver Municipal Band.

for-pro t that is internationally headquartered in New York with its Denver o ce located in Denver’s Virginia Village neighborhood. Entertainment for the Welcome Home event will be provided by Bella Diva World Dance, attendees will have the opportunity to browse artist Tim Wood’s latest photography series, and a full dinner will be catered by King of Shawarma & Kabob. More information/reservations: tinyurl. com/IRCDenver-WelcomeHome

Logo courtesy of the International Rescue Committee’s website.

in the Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St., in Aurora. Recycled materials for monstermaking will be provided. Tickets cost $7 per person and children age 12 and younger are free. One adult ticket must be purchased for every two children. Proceeds support the Sun Valley Youth Center.

More information/reservations: tickets. meowwolf.com/events/denver/monsterbattle

Photo by Shayla Blatchford/Meow Wolf.

Photo by Bobbi Sheridan/courtesy of Four Mile Historic Park.

Aug.

Denver Public Library: An Evening with Author Jasmine Guillory

Time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Location: Ellie Caulkins Opera House at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, 1385 Curtis St.

Cost: Free.

e Denver Public Library’s Strong Library, Strong Denver program, in partnership with Denver Arts & Venues, is hosting New York Times bestselling novelist Jasmine Guillory. A few of Guillory’s books include “ e Wedding Date,” “ e

Aug. 19

South by Southeast festival

Time: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Location: Bible Park, 6802 E. Yale Ave., Denver.

Cost: Free.

is annual certi ably green event will feature food trucks, a beer garden, live music, vendors, kid’s activities, a giant solar-powered bubble tower, lawn games and more. It kicks o at 11 a.m. with a community bike parade around the park, during which community members are encouraged to decorate

Aug. 27

La Raza Park Day and Cruise

Time: 1-5 p.m.

Proposal” and “Drunk on Love,” and her work has appeared in e Wall Street Journal, Cosmopolitan, Bon Appetit and Time. e event will include a presentation and book signing by Guillory. Book sales will be available at the event.

More information/reservations: denverlibrary.org/event/love-air-eveningauthor-jasmine-guillory (Registration is optional but encouraged.)

Photo courtesy of an online media kit on Jasmine Guillory’s website: jasmineguillory.com.

Denver Film: CinemaQ Film Festival

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

Cost: Festival passes: $60 for Denver Film members/$70 non-member. Individual film tickets: $12 for Denver Film members/$15 nonmember.

Denver Film’s CinemaQ Film Festival celebrates the vibrate and diverse LGBTQ+ stories, providing an opportunity for everyone to enjoy a curated movies and programs that entertain, educate and empower. is year’s festival includes about a dozen full length lms plus shorts, panels and discussions, an opening night reception, and a marketplace and ice cream social.

their bike, scooter, stroller, wheelchair or other non-motorized wheels and participate in the parade.

More information/reservations: tinyurl.com/SouthBySoutheastFestivalDenver

Photo courtesy of Denver City Council District 4.

Location: La Raza Park, 1501 W. 38th Ave., Denver.

Cost: Free.

is local lowrider event — put on by Warm Cookies of the Revolution and Denver Arts & Venues — will o er an opportunity to view low rider vehicles, lucha libre wrestlers, breakdancing and Aztec dancers. ere will also be music, food and vendors.

More information/reservations: warmcookiesoftherevolution.org (select calendar) Photo courtesy of Warm Cookies of the Revolution.

Aug. 19

ElevAsian Night Market Fundraiser

Time: 4-10 p.m.

Location: Tivoli Turnhalle on Auraria Campus, 900 Auraria Pkwy., Denver.

Cost: $24.99 child access, $64.99 adult ages 13 and up general access, $129.99 ages 21 and up premium access.

e second annual ElevAsian Night Market Fundraiser will o er an opportunity to eat, drink and shop AAPI women-owned restaurants and businesses, as well as enjoy entertainment by AAPI women and AAPI women-led groups. is event is a fundraiser for Asian Girls Ignite, a nonpro t that exists to build a strong community of AAPI girls to celebrate their individual and collective power. More information/reservations: asiangirlsignite.org/elevasian Photo courtesy of Jas K Productions.

More information/reservations: denver lm.org

“Bottoms” is the CinemaQ Film Festival’s opening night presentation. Image courtesy of Denver Film.

Sept. 2-3

Rocky Mountain Dreams

Time: Varies.

Location: Various venues at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

Cost: Varies, see below.

e Rocky Mountain Dreams Pride Bands Conference will o er three public performances featuring about 350 musicians from Pride Bands Alliance organizations around the world. Denver’s Mile High Freedom Bands will be participating, and will be kicking o its 40th anniversary season. e concerts are:

e Centennial Pep Band: 11 a.m. Sept. 2 at e Galleria at Denver Center for the Performing Arts, 1101 13th St. Free and no tickets required.

e Fourteeners Jazz Band: 6 p.m. Sept. 2 at e Galleria at Denver Center for the Performing Arts. Free and no tickets required.

e Longs Peak and Pikes Peak Symphonic Bands: is nale event will showcase musicians with the Pride Bands Alliance. 7 p.m. Sept. 3 at Ellie Caulkins Opera House at the Denver Performing Arts Complex, 1385 Curtis St. Tickets begin at $25 according to axs.com.

More information/reservations: dreamers2023.org/publicevents

Logo courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Dreams website.

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance partners with Scandinavian choreographer for September performance

To learn more about Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, or to purchase tickets for the upcoming “Firebird” performances, visit cleoparkerdance. org.

To learn more about the Tabanka Dance Ensemble, visit tabankadance. com.

BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Cleo Parker Robinson grew up in the historic Rossonian Hotel in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995, the Rossonian Hotel catered to touring Black musicians during segregation. Parker Robinson lived in an apartment at the hotel, above a jazz lounge that hosted legendary Black musicians like Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday. She would go to sleep every night hearing music being performed by artists from around the country and the globe, taking in their energy and dreaming about how she would one day make her mark on the world.

“As a child, it felt worldly to me. I was always hearing

classical music, jazz music and music from all over the world,” Parker Robinson said. “It just made me want to bring the world together all the time. I always felt like I wanted to be in the world. Growing up there was destiny.”

Parker Robinson has certainly made her mark on the world, particularly through her founding of Cleo Parker Robinson Dance (CPRD). Based in Denver, it is one of the world’s most wellknown, reputable dance companies. With her company, she aims to honor the African Diaspora, explore the human condition, champion social justice, unite people of all ages and races, and ultimately celebrate the complexity of life through movement. As part of her mission, CPRD each year hosts an International Summer Dance Institute for dancers of all ages and ability levels. e Children’s Global Camp teaches students more than a dozen dance genres through cultural movement. Past genres have included hip hop, capoeira, Celtic, Polynesian, West African, jazz, hula, modern, South Korean, amenco, ballet, Mexican folklorico and East

For more advanced dancers, CPRD o ers intensive master classes with some of dance’s most in uential artists. Guest choreographers come from all over the world to work with CPRD dancers during the International Summer Dance Institute. is year, CPRD welcomes omas

Talawa Prestø, founder and artistic director of the Tabanka Dance Ensemble based in Oslo, Norway. He is visiting as a guest choreographer and teacher of his Talawa technique of dance.

“ omas Prestø and I discovered that we have this connection, this powerful connection,” said Parker Robinson. “I’d been curious about Norway for a while. When I previously visited Iceland, I only met one Black person. When I met omas and he said he was from Norway, I said, ‘no way, I didn’t think there are any Black folks in Norway.’ When I met him at the International Association of Blacks in Dance, he was so hungry and so present. I connected with him immediately.”

Prestø said he felt the same about meeting Parker Robinson.

“Cleo Parker Robinson has

been a lighthouse and inspiration to us across the Atlantic,” said Prestø. “Fate, God and the ancestors have brought the opportunity for us to work together. Together we will a rm dance as a catalyst for social justice and a refuge for the oppressed. rough movement yesterday arrives today, and brings tomorrow.”

Prestø’s Tabanka Dance Ensemble was founded in order to promote and represent the existence of Black personhood and identity in Norway and Scandinavia. As one of the leading institutions of African Diaspora dance in Europe and the Nordic countries, Tabanka seeks to advance the sector through sharing knowledge, practices and advocating for equity within the European and Nordic art sectors, as well as society at large.

Tabanka Dance Ensemble dancers specialize in African and Caribbean dance practices. ey are Scandinavian pioneers, carving a space for Black and Brown dance artists and challenging the normativity of the northern European dance and arts eld. Each dancer is also trained as a youth and community worker, and is highly committed to equity and inclusion, and work to ensure that economy, race, ethnicity and culture are not a barrier to participation.

‘Firebird’ and ‘Catch a Fire’ e Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble will be performing on Sept. 16-17 at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in Denver, along with select members of the Tabanka Dance Ensemble. e program will include three performances: “Firebird,” choreo-

Samiyah Lynnice and others part of the Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble rehearse Thomas Prestø’s choreography during an open rehearsal on July 19. PHOTO BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

Jasmine Francisco rehearses a routine part of Thomas Prestø’s “Catch a Fire.” PHOTO BY CHANCY J. GATLIN-ANDERSON

DANCE

graphed by Parker Robinson; “Catch a Fire,” choreographed by Prestø; and the third performance was yet to be announced as of Colorado Community Media’s press deadline.

“To see this combination of what we’re doing with the Tabanka dancers from another culture is real education,” said Parker Robinson. “People get to embrace this beautiful thing of music and dance that we’re all a part of.”

Parker Robinson’s performance of “Firebird” will be set amid the enchanting Hawaiian islands, presenting an unconventional concept that departs from the traditional Slavic versions of the ballet. e essence of Pelé — the powerful Goddess of the Volcano — permeates the performance and introduces the presence of historical gures like King Kamehameha and Queen Lili’uokalani, paying homage to their signi cant contributions to Hawaiian history.

“I was invited to teach on the big island in Hawaii,” Parker Robinson said. “I didn’t know much about the culture at the time. Once I started working there, they invited me to dance on the edge of a volcano. I was terri ed (but) it was of the most invigorating, close-to-death experiences I’ve ever had. en I started

teaching there, at the volcano, every year for 10 years. Hawaiian culture on the Big Island is just so alive.”

is experience inspired Parker Robinson, and in 1997, she choreographed “Firebird” for the Colorado Symphony, working with Marin Alsop, who was the principal conductor at the time.

“ e dancers I have now never did that version of ‘Firebird’ with me, so I’ve reconstructed it” for the September performances, said Parker Robinson.

In addition to Parker Robinson’s “Firebird,” Prestø will present his original work, “Catch a Fire.” Inspired by both Parker Robinson and Bob Marley lyrics, the piece will be perfectly juxtaposed to “Firebird.”

“Bob Marley’s lyrics are all about consequence. ey’re about anyone in power catching the consequences of their actions. So all of the songs in the piece kind of have this commonality,” said Prestø. “‘Catch a Fire’ is also about catching the re that Cleo (Parker Robinson) has created. It’s about carrying on the torch to the next generation.”

Black representation in dance

For both Cleo Parker Robinson Dance and the Tabanka Dance Ensemble, Black representation in dance is of critical importance.

“Growing up, we didn’t see enough of ourselves in any of the media. I think it is very important to read

about — and to understand — our culture from a deeper and broader perspective,” said Parker Robinson. “Growing up, what we were seeing in the media was pretty degrading and it wasn’t very realistic of who we were. We had a tremendous desire to know more about our culture. In Denver, we began to build a place for ourselves. Most of our young people didn’t have opportunities to work, to create, to be paid, to develop. I think for young people, this has become an opportunity to continue to evolve.”

Across the Atlantic Ocean, Prestø mirrors Parker Robinson’s sentiment.

“ ere is a weird paradox of this idea that Blacks naturally and inherently sing, and that we have natural rhythm. But at the same time, (that) we don’t have culture and our dance is just at a body level — it’s not cerebral, it’s not intelligent. It is something we do by instinct, something we’re born with,” said Prestø. “Black dance is important because it reclaims intelligence and reclaims culture. It a rms it for the Black body. at is an aspect that we don’t talk about enough. We have to counter that image that is still there.”

Both Parker Robinson and Prestø are looking forward to sharing their work with the community this September.

“We all have that re energy that helped us survive the pandemic. We all had that re saying, ‘I want to live, I want to be alive, I want to dance, I

want to sing, I want to nd my passion,’” Parker Robinson said. “You’ll nd that re in the work. I think that kind of re empowers people and helps build community.”

Samuel Gaines Jr. dances during a July 19 open rehearsal at Cleo Parker Robinson Dance for Thomas Prestø’s “Catch a Fire.” PHOTO BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

HILL SERVICE DIRECTORY

Capitol Hill ad

WELLNESS

Amesse Elementary in Montbello and Johnson Elementary in the Mar Lee neighborhood.

Because the schools are known, trusted places in the community, people will hopefully feel more comfortable approaching the Wellness Winnies, Horst said. Once they do, they will nd that they do not need to provide insurance, have U.S. documentation or speak English to successfully access care, Horst added.

these kinds of services where the idea is that we have the lowest barriers possible.”

DPHE partnered with community organizations like Street Fraternity, Heart and Hand Center and Struggle of Love Foundation to better understand community needs and build trust with residents, Horst said.

Struggle of Love is a nonpro t based in Denver’s Montbello neighborhood that provides underprivileged youth and families with year-round access to various services and programs, including a food pantry, annual toy giveaways and sports and mentorship programs.

sta at Struggle of Love easily connect clients to services without having to ask clients to travel o site or search throughout the city for resources, said Ashley Smith, director of mental health services at Struggle of Love.

People at Struggle of Love have come to know and trust the sta , and feel comfortable approaching the purple vans, Smith said.

“We walk them down personally, and we talk to them to establish those connections right there on the spot, so if they already trust Struggle of Love, then they’ll trust Wellness Winnie because we trust Wellness Winnie,” Smith said.

care and education such as overdose prevention and reversal, Horst said.

e Wellness Winnie team also offers taxi vouchers, so that if they refer someone to seek treatment at another site, they can provide the transportation means to get there.

e Mini Winnies are a permanent expansion, and the medical services currently have a three-year funding allocation that could be renewed in the future, Horst said. e team is optimistic that the new services will make a big di erence in caring for the Denver community.

“

ere continues to be disparities and a lot of stigma that certain communities within Denver really struggle with, even more than just your baseline population,” Horst said. “So with that in mind, we’re excited to have

TOMATOES

such as bumblebees, bees, birds and, sometimes, the wind — all natual elements of the garden.

e carbon tomato is a large, rm, meaty tomato. Its esh is deep red with light to dark purple shoulders. It has a vibrant, sweet, smokey avor with the texture of a beefsteak. ese fruits are marketed as crack resistant, but according to several growers, they tend to split if watering is not regular.

e Wellness Winnie parks in Struggle of Love’s parking lot every Tuesday to conduct educational programs like Narcan training, hand out hygiene bags and assist clients with their personal needs. is helps the

Cherokee green is tomato is a true green when ripe which can cause confusion. We see many people pick up green tomatoes, then set them down because they think they are not ready. However, if you know what to look for in ripeness, then you are blessed with the sweetest avor (in my opinion) of all the tomatoes. Ripeness is indicated by a slight yellow-orange hue on the blossom side of the fruit. is wonderful heirloom has an excellent, complex avor with a gorgeous color, which makes it one of our most anticipated tomatoes for this season based on being a favorite from

Each vehicle will generally provide the same services while out in the community, with the medical RV Super Winnie more focused on clinical care, and the other vehicles more focused on behavioral and mental health

last year. Each tomato can be between six ounces and one pound. Cherokee green is a large, beautiful beefsteak selected by Craig LeHoullie who has trialed more than 1,200 tomato varieties and has several helpful books on home gardening. is tomato comes from the same gene selections at the Cherokee purple, which is known for bold, acidic avors.

Moskovich

A true classic in every tomato garden, this early, small, red tomato makes for a great slicer. ese perfect little red globes are cold-tolerant,

“It’s been in the works for a while, and to see some of this come to fruition is super exciting,” Horst said. “It just continues to be a very humbling, rewarding experience to be able to serve the city and county of Denver in this way with our Wellness Winnie team.”

which means they will be one of the rst to start to ripen. Moskovich can put on growth while the early May conditions are still too cold for many big fruit tomatoes. It will be one of the last to keep producing because of its hardiness, making it a true work-horse winner for production. e avor is very balanced — not too acidic and not too sweet, so it also works for canning, if that’s your thing. Happy growing (and eating)!

Josie Hart is the associate director of farm program for the Denver Botanic Gardens.

1-877-328-1512

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