Life On Capitol Hill 0719

Life On

July 2019 FREE

CAPITOL HILL

KEEPING TUNE

THE GREEN CYCLE

Drum corps marches on Civic Center park

Denver compost business gives back

P4

STAYING AT HOME

Denver residents look for affordable places to live P12

P6

A NEW COUNCIL Meet north Denver’s members P14

R E M M SU INGS N E E R C S The Esquire Theatre is back

P3

2 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

Business Matters

By Kailyn Lamb | klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com Business Matters is a monthly column on the changing landscape of business and development in north Denver. If there are any inquiries on new developments in your area, or if you are a local business wishing to highlight an upcoming milestone, email Kailyn Lamb at klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

DEVELOPMENT National Jewish Health National Jewish Health will be expanding its medical campus at 1400 Jackson St. The medical facility has lined up a new $76.6 million building, with construction estimated to start as early as this year. The new building will be a Center for Outpatient Health.

BUSINESS OPENINGS Bishops Cuts and Colors The salon-and-barbershop franchise opened a new location in City Park on June 22. The franchise is owned by Alison Laevey and her husband, who have been Congress Park residents for the last 20 years.

This is the second Bishops location for the couple, who also own one in the Lowry neighborhood. The City Park location is at 3825 E. Colfax Ave. “Bishops Cuts and Colors is a unisex hairshop that offer cuts, colors, shaves and fades to men, women, you, with gender nonbinary, a la carte pricing,” Laevey said in an email.

This archive photo shows cranes working on the development project at East Ninth Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. The development includes apartment buildings and retail space.

KAILYN LAMB “We welcome everyone with no judgment.

We’re creating a space where everyone can be themselves with the look they feel is their best, in a shop filled with art and music.”

The salon offers walk-ins and scheduled appointments. For more information, go to www.bishops.co.

Ready to live in central Denver ...

16 Penn Apartments A 55+ Senior Apartment Community

Enjoy the dining, the theatre district, the arts, & all that living in an urban environment provides …and peace and quiet when you need it!

2019 Specials!

Apartment homes starting at $1,495 with $350 deposit.

2-bedroom apartments from $1,950.

Selling a home?

Transitioning out of a lease?

Ask about the $250 / $250 program.

Prices subject to change without notice.

♦ Flexible lease terms ♦ Multiple 1 & 2 bedroom floorplans ♦ Gourmet kitchens ♦ Full size washer & dryer ♦ Pet friendly ♦ Underground parking ♦ Onsite electric car charging station

16 Penn

Contemporary Urban Living at its best!

Thrive@55!

1615 N. Pennsylvania Denver, CO 80203

720-269-4380

Frank & Roze Frank & Roze, a coffee bar and cafe, has joined the lineup of new restaurants and shops planned for the development at East Ninth Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. The development is scheduled to open this November. Frank & Roze will be located at 4097 E. Ninth Ave. Tom Coohill, the chef behind the French restaurant Coohills, will put together the menu for Frank & Roze. In addition to coffee, the cafe will offer beer and wine.

Several other restaurants, such as Pizzeria Locale, Chuy’s, Gelato Boy, Culinary Dropout and Blanco Tacos & Tequila, were also recently announced as part of the new development.

TruFusion Gym has also announced a location at the development. It will be the first TruFusion location in Denver.

Black Swan Yoga This fall, Black Swan Yoga will open at 1308 N. Pearl St. The studios, which are based in Austin, Texas, offer a pay-what-you-can model where participants donate money at the end of the class. The studio also offers an $88 monthly membership.

The Denver location will be the first Black Swan Yoga outside of Texas.

Miss Molly’s Bakery The new bakery announced via Facebook that it would be opening later this year at 2600 E. Colfax Ave. This will be the first brick-andmortar location for the business, which has been offering catering and special orders on its website since 2018.

In addition to pastries and cakes, Miss Molly’s also offers savory calzones. The bakery is “East Coast-inspired,” according to its Facebook page.

The Spot Bouldering Gym The Spot Bouldering Gym opened in May in the Golden Triangle. The gym is a 19,000-square-foot facility at 1235 Delaware St. The Spot first opened in Boulder, and the Golden Triangle location is the second gym for the company.

CLOSINGS The Uber Sausage After eight years, The Uber Sausage has closed its doors. The shop left a note on its doors in May that read “we are permanently closing our doors to pursue other passions.”

The shop was located at 2730 E. Colfax Ave. Uber Sausage first opened as a food truck, and opened the brick-and-mortar location in 2011. The restaurant also had a location in the River North neighborhood from 2013-2017.

CHANGES Knew Conscious An art gallery and social club reopened on June 29 in the Golden Triangle. Knew Conscious was originally open in Ballpark neighborhood, but closed last year.

The new gallery opened at 1134 N. Broadway.

Knew Conscious first opened in River North in 2010 and later moved to the Ballpark neighborhood in 2017.

In addition to acting as an art gallery, Knew Conscious offered members only events, which it will continue in the Golden Triangle location.

Onsite Visitor Parking

Open Daily M-F 9:00AM - 5:00PM Sat 10:00AM - 4:00PM Sun By Appointment

Visit us online www.16PennApts.com Located 1 block south of 17th Ave on Pennsylvania

CORRECTION In the May issue of Life on Capitol Hill, a story titled “Bringing nonprofits together in Colorado” incorrectly stated that PIVOT was working with the Boys and Girls Club of Colorado for a mentorship program. PIVOT is working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado for the mentorship program. We regret the error.

Life On Capitol Hill 3

July 2019

N R U R E TOF A C I S S CLA Refurbished Esquire Theatre opens with new amenities

The Esquire Theatre reopened last month after a six-month closure due to water damage. The theater has been renovated with new floors and ceilings.

PHOTOS BY NANCY PROFERA

By Nancy Profera Special to Life on Capitol Hill

I

ndependent movie theater fans flocked to Capitol Hill last month for the muchawaited reopening of the Esquire Theatre.

The beloved theater at 590 Downing St. reopened June 14 with its two screens showing “The Dead Don’t Die,” a newly released comedy-horror film featuring Bill Murray, Adam Driver and Chloë Sevigny.

David Grivette, who is home in Denver for the summer after completing his second year of a three-year graduate screenwriting program at the University of Texas, attended the matinee.

“The movie was funny and ironic. I enjoyed the cadence and timing of Adam Driver,” said Grivette. “I want to go read all about the making of the movie now.”

The theater reopened exactly six months

after its closure due to water damage, said Troy in the late 1980s, and has owned and operated Lasley, building manager for 12 years. “We had the independent theater since that time. Free parking is available behind the building. to close for utility issues and water damage, Esquire shows daily matinee and evening and we just decided to rehab the whole place.” movies and also offers “Midnight Madness” Inside the theater, there is new stadium movies on Friday and Saturday nights. First seating, floors and carpeting throughout, and up this summer is the 1979 classic, a new concession stand offering “Alien,” running July 5 and 6. Not nachos and fresh pretzels along with FOR MORE to fear, fans of “The Rocky Horror the usual popcorn, candy and soda.

INFORMATION Picture Show,” the show returns at “We have a lot more food and beverage optionsm,” Lasley said, Visit www.esquire- midnight on Saturday, July 27. The Esquire also shows classic movies a “and will soon be offering draft beer theatre.com for and wine, too.” movie showtimes couple of times a year on Wednesdays at 2 and 7 p.m. In recognition Built in 1927, the Esquire is the and schedules. of the reopening and its heritage, longest continuously operating Esquire plans to show movies from 1927 later theater in Denver, according to Lasley. this year.

“We beat the Mayan Theatre by three years,” Emmanuel Luna and Lucia Gomez are he said. “Rumor has it there was a brief time in among the Esquire floor staff. “I also help the 1950s when the building closed and opermake the place look good,” added Gomez, who ated as a church, but other than that, we’ve is a recent hire. Luna has worked at the theater always been a movie theater.” just over a year.

Landmark Theaters took over the building

From left, Lucia Gomez, Troy Lasley and Emmanuel Luna stand behind the counter at the Esquire Theatre in Capitol Hill. The theater reopened on June 14.

Laurie Daniels, who lives in Platt Park, recently took in an afternoon show.

“I’m so happy to see it open again,” she said.

“It is so easy to get to.”

#1 R ev i in M Co o er n lo rt ra g se do a by ge vo s lu

Reverse Mortgage: No Monthly Payment, Get Cash & Pay Off Your Mortgage

I

s your mortgage payment “strangling” you? Are you worried about which bills to pay on your fixed income? Is there no joy in the Golden years because your budget is so tight? A reverse mortgage may be the answer you have been seeking.

A government insured loan product that allows you to pay off your current mortgage thereby eliminating your monthly mortgage payment can provide the budget breathing-room you need.

Taxes and homeowner’s insurance must still be paid, but many seniors have found that not only can they eliminate their mortgage payment, they can also get tax-free cash to use for any purpose.

Even if you don’t have a mortgage, you may be “house rich and cash poor.” You have paid into your home for many years and have accumulated housing wealth that can only be accessed if you sell. But now a reverse mortgage will allow you to access the equity in your home while you continue to own the home so you can get

m

e

cash and make life a little easier.

Get the correct facts. There is a lot of wrong information floating around about reverse mortgages. With a reverse mortgage, no one owns the home but you, and no debt is passed on to your heirs. You will still have substantial equity in your home, and can sell at any time.

Call me for more information on your situation and to see if this program will benefit you. You owe it to yourself and your family to know your options, with accurate facts.

Kathy Muni, NMLS #1368981, is a Reverse Mortgage Specialist with Silver Leaf Mortgage in Centennial. You can contact her at (720) 458-4041, or email at: KathyM@SilverLeafMortgages.com.

Located in The Streets at SouthGlenn 6972 S. Vine St., Ste. 366, Centennial, CO 80122

Call Kathy today for a

FREE CONSULTATION! Kathy Muni

NMLS #1368981 Reverse Mortgage Specialist

Kathy Muni: Rever se Mortgage Expert!

720-458-4041

KathyM@SilverLeafMortgages.com Listen to Muni for Your Money - The Reverse Mortgage Show on Legends 810AM on Saturday mornings at 9 and Sunday mornings at 10:30.

SLM NMLS #1394377 is an Equal Housing Lender. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Regulated by the Department of Real Estate.

4 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

Jesus Alaya warms up for the Blue Knights performance on June 20.

Eric Hinton Jr., left, and Sam Jakob warm up in the park at Civic Center for a June performance in Denver

BLUE KNIGHTS MARCH ON IN DENVER

T

he Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps came to Denver on June 20 to play a stand-still performance during Civic Center C enter Eats. The corps usually plays in formations but did a standing concert at the Greek Amphiteatre, 150 W. 14th Ave. The corps played two performances, one at 11:45 a.m., the next at 12:30 p.m.

On June 21, the Blue Knights were scheduled to head to Englewood High School, 3800 S. Logan St., for their send-off performance at 7 p.m.

The Blue Knights comprise a competitive junior drum and bugle corps organization in Denver. The organization hosts the annual Drums Along the Rockies event, which will be held at Broncos Stadium at Mile High this year on July 13. In addition to brass and percussion players, the corps features color guard and visual ensembles. Performers from around the country audition to perform with the Blue Knights. It is operated by Ascend Performing Arts, a nonprofit organzation based in Denver.

For more information, go to https:// ascendperformingarts.org/.

Katelyn Fabian with the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps Color Guard practices before a performance at Civic Center park on June 20.

PHOTOS BY KAILYN LAMB Walker Stovall with the Front Ensemble of the Blue Knights.

A tuba player with the Blue Knights plays during a performance in Denver.

Claire Wells stretches before a Blue Knights performance.

Your Trusted Source For Quality Custom Framing

For FREE delivery call 303-871-9777

FREE Lunch BuFFEt Buy 1 Lunch BuFFEt GEt 1 Lunch BuFFEt FREE Limit 1 per table per visit. not valid with any other offers.

Valid for Dine-in only. Valid @ 6th Ave. & Downing locations only. Expires: 7/31/19.

330 E. 6th Avenue at Grant • 303-871-9777 2390 S. Downing • 303-298-1939 More online coupons: littleindiaofdenver.com

1017 E. 9th Avenue | Denver, CO 80218 303-837-8846 | denver.thegreatframeup.com

Life On Capitol Hill 5

July 2019

CHUN takes lead in neighborhood climate action A new subcommittee dedicated to climate change meets this month

IF YOU GO The Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods will hold its first Climate Crisis Committee meeting July 25 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held in the community hall in the Tears-McFarlane House, 1290 N. Williams St. For information, go to www.chundenver.org.

By Kailyn Lamb klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Three members of Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods are looking for “movers and shakers” in the north Denver area, in the hopes of jump-starting lasting change in climate policy. The Climate Crisis Committee will have its first meeting this month.

Jim Slotta said that the groundwork for a climate change committee has been around for a long time. On the events side, CHUN has done neighborhood clean-ups and tree plantings. CHUN president Travis Leiker added that CHUN has also always had a mission to save and add to Denver’s tree canopy.

Slotta is also the CHUN representative at the Denver Inter-Neighborhood Cooperation, an organization that represents residents citywide, and has its own sustainability committee. Slotta has also worked with Accelerate Neighborhood Climate Action, which held forums in Denver neighborhoods, including some in the CHUN area.

The first meeting on July 25 will likely go over what people want the mission of the Climate Crisis Committee to be, and how often the group will meet. City council President xxxxxx,, also District 7’s representative of the southwest Denver community, will be a speaker at the first meeting.

Slotta called Clark a “kindred spirit” because

Jim Slotta, left, speaks during a Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods board meeting in June. Slotta recently joined in with CHUN president Travis Leiker and member Stephen Polk to create a new Climate Crisis Committee.

KAILYN LAMB he has worked for sustainable policies in the city already. The meeting is open to all.

Leiker and Stephen Polk, another CHUN member, expressed interest in partnering with other organizations to help get things rolling.

Polk specifically wants to work with grassroots organizations run by people of color to make sure the committee is inclusive.

“If we’re not fighting for the planet and also at the same time for all people, then we’re gonna fall short,” Polk said. “Those who are most vulnerable, and those who are going to experience the impacts of climate change most accutely are those people of color. So if we don’t have them at the table, we’re not doing our job.”

Leiker said that cities are often the best incubators for new and innovative solutions.

He’s hopeful the committee will create change on the city level that can then inspire similar

IT’S AN

EMERGENCY UNTIL YOU HAVE EXPERT ANSWERS. When an emergency happens it's crucial to get the right diagnosis.

At Presbyterian/St. Luke's Medical Center, the time between your arrival and receiving life-saving treatments is faster than the national average. That means you'll get the answers you need in a timely manner.

pslmc.com/ER

We are also part of the HealthONE network, with all its resources, and that makes all the difference during an emergency.

We are here for all of your high-risk emergencies including strokes, heart attacks, accidents, or gastrointestinal issues. When it's an emergency, get the expert answers you deserve.

Expert fast – Experts close

the page

2001 High St, Denver 80218

programs in other cities.

“Certainly we are very blessed to be in a city and a state that values environmental conservation and sustainability,” Leiker said. “I think the potential for cities and local communities and neighborhoods to champion environmentally friendly clauses is both critical and ever-present.”

Slotta agreed, saying that for people to make change, enough people must be interested in making that change happen.

“Unless it translates down to individual life changes, to culture changes, it isn’t going to

work,” Slotta said. “I think that local activity is not a small part in what has to happen.”

The next step, Leiker said, is taking the interest of people and turning it into action, whether that’s calling city council members and asking for climate policy or using financial resources to help plant trees and hold events.

Leiker is hopeful the new committee will interest people in taking action at the city level.

Some people don’t get involved in the process at all, while others take their concerns to state legislature or even the federal government.

But Leiker believes Denver residents and members of CHUN have an opportunity to create a domino effect on climate policy, starting with the neighborhoods and then growing citywide.

“I’m a firm believer in using the full ecosystem of organizations like Captiol Uill United Neighborhoods to advance policy objectives,” Leiker said. “I think that’s a space where CHUN can play a bigger role than it has historically”

6 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

Creating green cycle the

Compost business looks to grow outside Capitol Hill

By Kailyn Lamb klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com Cailin Osborne takes a break from digging a trench for a small fence at the Majestic View location for Front Line Farming. In addition to working on the farms with the company, Osborne helps run their free grocery program.

KAILYN LAMB

F

Shawn Hendrickson, left, of Denver Compost Collective teaches a class at Majestic View on how to compost food waste. Denver Compost Collective gathers waste from residents in Denver and takes it to the Majestic View farm location to be made into compost.

COURTESY OF DENVER COMPOST COLLECTIVE

or the last two years Shawn Hendrickson has been slowly, but deliberately building his compost business. What started as an effort among him and some neighbors to compost their food waste has grown into a 300-person network that helps local farms and businesses. Now, Hendrickson is looking forward to his next steps.

Denver Compost Collective is, at its core, a business where people can send their food waste to be composted. But to Hendrickson, it’s more than that.

He hand picks the farms he works with to ensure they have missions in line with food TO LEARN MORE justice and green business practices. The environmental For more information on the benefits are a large part of the Denver Compost Collective, go business as well. By taking 300 to https://denvercompostcolpeople’s food waste, Hendricklective.com/. The business son and Denver Compost offers compost classes, as well Collective are diverting a lot as resources on how to do your of trash away from landfills. own composting.

But he also keeps economics in mind, making sure his emFor more information on Front ployees make livable wages.

Line Farming, go to https:// “It becomes a way for us at a www.frontlinefarming.org/. community level to subsidize, The organization runs as a not only our local food system, nonprofit, and often has volunbut social justice work,” Henteer opportunities at its farm drickson said. locations.

Sven Ceelan, a driver with Denver Compost Collective, added that it’s a cycle. The compost business wants to help support local farms that may not be as well-funded. As land grows more expensive, Ceelan said he’s seen community farms close in favor of development.

“The more that we can support those farms, there’s an economic benefit,” Ceelan said.

SEE COMPOST, P7

Life On Capitol Hill 7

July 2019

Compost FROM PAGE 6

Capitol Hill was the logical place to start Denver Compost Collective because many of the apartment buildings aren’t included in the city’s services. Denver services only include single-family households and apartment buildings with seven units or less. Denver Compost Collective helps to fill in some of those gaps. The city charges $29.95 every three months for compost.

The business also is transparent about where the compost goes and letting customers see the impact they make, Ceelan said. The typical backyard composting set-up can be very difficult for one person to generate enough waste to successfully make compost. There’s just not enough heat to begin converting the waste.

“Some of these composting things are just, take your waste somewhere and someone else deals with it,” Ceelan said.

“This is more like we want to build the relationships. We want to actually build the soil, we want to see the produce coming out from the soil.”

Now that the business has been around for two years, Hendrickson is looking to grow the customer base to 1,000-2,000 participants. He also hopes to grow outside of the Capitol Hill area.

“Every time we develop something new we look at the cost to our environmental, our social and our economic system, and then we make a decision accordingly,” Hendrickson said. “It’s all too easy to err on `Let’s just take more material.’ ” Customers with Denver Compost Collective receive a 1.25 gallon pail. For $5 a week, the company will pick up the food waste and take it to one of their farming partners. The food waste is donated to the farms, which then don’t have to buy compost. This helps their budgets, Hendrickson said, because compost is expensive.

Veronca Lewis, front, and Afrah Mohamed work on putting a wire fence up to prevent small wildlife from getting into the vegetable plots at Majestic View. Front Line Farming began operating a garden space at Majestic View in Arvada earlier this year.

KAILYN LAMB

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

Off to the farm One of those farms is Front Line Farming, a nonprofit organization that focuses on workers rights and providing quality organic food to people who can’t afford it. Hendrickson brings compost pails to Front Line once per week. The two businesses have a system set up that converts the food waste into compost after four months.

Front Line Farming works specifically

The idea for Denver Compost Collective came from a two-year, studentled project at the Auraria campus, said Shawn Hendrickson, the founder, said. He and classmates worked to get compost collection at the Tivoli building, which has several restaurants and fast-food options for students.

“It just took a whole lot of work,” Hendrickson said, “but it was a good learning experience having it be all students.”

Hendrickson then moved on to composting with his neighbors in his backyard.

“The idea was to grow it into a neighborhood-based compost system” he said.

People who use Denver Compost Collective’s weekly services receive a pail like this one. The company will then pick up people’s compost weekly. COURTESY OF DENVER COMPOST COLLECTIVE

Denver Compost Collective gathers food waste from Denver residents and takes it to Majestic View in Arvada. The waste is then converted into compost, which Front Line Farming uses on its vegetables. The vegetables are then used in different food programs with the farms, or sold to Denver businesses.

KAILYN LAMB

with people of color and women to help give them a better voice in the world of agriculture. They also make sure their employees get health insurance and better living wages. Insurance in the farming industry, Wagner said, is rare.

In mid-June, a group of Front Line staff and volunteers gathered at the Majestic View farm location in Arvada to build fencing around one of the two-acre garden plots. Abigail Wagner, who manages the farm for Front Line, hopes about 15,000 pounds of food will be grown there.

Majestic View, 7000 Garrison St., is the location where Denver Compost Collective sends its food waste. Front Line also has two other Denver farms, one at West 52nd Avenue and Federal Boulevard, the other by Interstate 25 and Colorado Boulevard.

Front Line sells some of its produce to local Denver businesses, such as The Corner Beet coffee shop and cafe in Capitol Hill. Veronica Lewis, the company’s volunteer coordinator, said this is how the farm makes revenue. The rest of the produce goes to Front Range residents, through food stamp programs or Front Line’s free grocery program. The free grocery program works with Denver Food Rescue.

Cailin Osborne runs the free grocery program, which takes food from Whole Foods that the grocery store plans on throwing out because of its looks or if it’s passed its expiration date.

“The program is a good opportunity to teach people about knowing their food and knowing what good food looks like,” Osborne said. “It’s being able to judge that for yourself and not just what companies tell you.”

Front Line relies heavily on volunteers as well as connections with other businesses, Lewis said. Each staff member has several responsibilities. Wagner is also the director of farm education and Lewis does some press relations and marketing work.

She’s also in charge of chicken care.

Afrah Mohamed, another farm manager with Front Line, said Hendrickson helped connect Front Line to The Corner Beet.

People in the farming world tend to be supportive of each other and their businesses, she said.

“Everybody helps each other,” she said.

“That’s the only way a community like is sustainable.”

More than compost Denver Compost Collective offers free composting classes. Often, Hendrickson heads down to Majestic View to teach classes there. He helps people avoid problems with smells from the food waste as well rodents or bugs. He also helps teach people about what items Denver Compost Collective will take, and what they can’t compost such as meat, dairy, or bones.

In addition to the food waste program at Denver Compost Collective, the business works with groups like Congress Park Neighbors for other collection programs.

Last year, Hendrickson said the collective collected 1,500 bags of raked leaves from Congress park, which can also be put into the compost program. He added that they also offer tree services to make wood chips.

“That’s all derived from right here,” Hendrickson said. “In the end, it becomes a larger conversation about how we tend to each other, how we support our local economy and how we can share in that win.”

8 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

NEW SUMMER MARKET Business owner tries her hand at converting LAUNCHES IN CAP HILL a parking lot to community space

By Kailyn Lamb klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

L

ocal vendors pulled together on a sunny day in June, launching the first Ogden Block Summer Market.

Nikki Hazamy, the owner of The Corner Beet coffee shop and Rooted Heart Yoga and Wellness, helped organize the market in the hopes of bringing together the Capitol Hill community. After Whole Foods closed at 900 E. 11th Ave., she said she felt like the area lost one of its gathering spaces.

“Cap Hill is the most tight-knit living community,” she said, “but there’s no one coming together for living community.”

Hazamy worked with Kelsey Bednar, manager at Corner Beet, 1401 N. Ogden St., to help put on the event. They brought in vendors from the coffee shop such as Symbiotik Kombucha. They also had local artists and other businesses there such as Front Line Farm and Denver Compost Collective. The market was located in the parking lot behind The Corner Beet, and ran from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 1.

On one side of the market, Hazamy also organized outdoor fitness classes. After opening Rooted Heart in November last year, Hazamy had wanted to host an outdoor yoga class for a while. She also brought in Rhythm Revolution, a spin class with a live DJ for the market.

Jasmine Anderson, who owns Rhythm Revolution, is also a DJ and teacher for the

company. She launched the classes three years ago, and has toured around Denver and parts of the western slope to teach spin classes.

Since opening, Anderson said she’s held 35 live shows.

Before opening Rhythm Revolution, Anderson had been involved in fitness for 11 years.

She noticed there were plenty of outdoor yoga options, but no cycling classes. She decided to bring her passion for music into a new fitness business.

“I just decided to do my own thing,” she said. “Music has always been a massive part of my life.”

Rhythm Revolution is moving into a new space later this year in the Nurture wellness marketplace at 2949 Federal Blvd., which will focus on fitness and wellness businesses, Anderson said. She added that Rhythm Revolution closed its former location on Colfax Avenue when she signed a lease on this location. For now, the business focuses on its live classes around the city.

The outdoor classes were a popular part of the Ogden market. Hazamy said she was hopeful that foot traffic heading to Corner Beet would see the event and come to check it out.

She’s hoping to run the event again in August or September. She and Bednar advertised the first market on Facebook and are hopeful to get more people interested in the event if they run it again.

“It’s just something fun to do,” Hazamy said.

People participate in an outdoor yoga class during the Ogden Block Summer Market. The event was held at The Corner Beet in Capitol Hill on June 1.

KAILYN LAMB

Sponsored Content

Getting Out Of School Debt Free I had a client call me recently letting me know his daughter had been accepted into Yale this fall. You could hear the pride in his voice. He’s not alone. There are proud Nelisha parents across Denver Firestone preparing their child to leave for college this fall. You will soon be packing pillows and laptops, perhaps arguing about whether they need to bring their own microwave. While money matters may be the last thing on your mind, teaching your teen to be financially responsible is an important part of the process, and one you shouldn’t skip for their own financial well-being.

This is likely the first time your child will be responsible for managing their own expenses. A few tips below to help the first year go well.

1

Set expectationsIt’s good for freshman to know what is expected of them

financially as they head off to school.

Are they expected to work while at school? Are you picking up the tab as long as they carry a “B” average?

Are they to receive an allowance each week? Who’s paying for the car insurance? Whatever the plan; be clear and communicate it well.

2

4

Discuss a spending plan-

Being away from home for the first time there will be many temptations. Discuss with your freshman what you consider to be acceptable spending. Sit down with him/her and come up with a plan that works for both of you.

3

with high fees and interest.

Open a debit card NOT a credit card-

Unfortunately, money management skills are not taught in school. If you develop bad habits early they’re hard to break. There are many free classes available on-line. Your financial advisor may have a recommendation.

5

A debit card is a better way to go initially. Afterall, A 2016 study

by LendEdu found that 43 percent of students don’t track their spending while 58 percent said they aren’t saving money each month. A debit card will give them a limit on what they can spend unlike a credit card

Sign them up for a money management class

Set Consequences-

Lastly, if your student doesn’t follow the plan let them know there will be consequences. Getting out of school debt free is a giftnot a right.

Good money management skills are necessary in life. Give your student a head start by teaching them now. The skills they develop today will follow them as they leave the

family nest and go into the world. It’s one of the best graduation presents you can give them.

Nelisha is a partner with Prosperion Financial Advisors located in Greenwood Village. She practices “Values Based Financial Planning”, aligning your financial goals with your most deeply held values. To schedule a consultation email Nelisha.firestone@ lpl.com or call 303-793-3202.

To Schedule a financial consultation email Nelisha at Nelisha.firestone@lpl.com www.prosperion.us Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

Life On Capitol Hill 9

July 2019

Free

to the Public 2019

Second AnnualWomen’s Health and Beauty Expo Saturday, October 5, 2019 | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Belmar Shopping Center • 464 S. Teller St., Lakewood Presented by Colorado Community Media in coordination with Belmar Shopping Center

The Women’s Health and Beauty Expo includes: • Entertainment and food • Health Education • Fashion • Beauty

• Accupuncture • Mental Health services • Fitness • Chiropractics • Gifts & More!

Get e d u and i cated -Alte nformed rnativ in:

-Men e medicin tal e, -Weig health -Phys ht loss ical h And M ealth ore

We are looking for Sponsors and Vendors!

Contact your Event Producer Thelma Grimes at tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com www.coloradocommunitymedia.com/womens-health-expo/

10 Life On Capitol Hill

LOCAL

July 2019

VOICES

The privilege of telling your stories FROM THE EDITOR

Kailyn Lamb

A

nd just like that, a year has gone by.

My first issue of Life on Capitol Hill came out in July. In the last year I have covered the food banks, transit on Colfax, laundry for the homeless and more. Through this job, I have met so many people doing great things for the north Denver community. I continue to be excited every day to learn new things about these neighborhoods and to provide residents with the news.

I often hear from readers who tell me about new businesses in the community or local construction projects they may be worried about. Though I try to have my ear to the ground as much as possible, I

still miss things, and these emails are hugely helpful.

I came up with the idea for our Growing Pains series after hearing from residents. In neighborhood meetings and interviews, people have talked about their fears on how a new building will impact their lives. It made me want to look deeper into some of the issues.

Not everything in this paper is about hard news. I want to hear more about the feel-good projects you can’t live without. The people in your neighborhood who make you smile just by being there.

I have always considered it a privilege as a writer to share the stories of others. A community is made

great by the people who help run it and, luckily for the city of Denver, there is no shortage of people who care. It makes my job just a little bit easier to know there is always something to write about.

But this reflection is also an opportunity for me to reach out to you, the reader. Are we hitting all the news you think we should? My job as the editor is to be out in the community — to meet people, hear their concerns or interests, and then inform others about it.

Feel free to reach out to me with your ideas or concerns. Together, we can continue telling the story of north Denver.

Reflecting on eight years in City Council

M How to garden for the semi-arid Colorado region

D

id you know Denver is characterized as a steppe climate? The term “steppe” is defined as a semi-arid climate with low precipitation (8-14 inches a year), high fluctuations in temperature and a mountain range — in our case the beloved Rockies, which shield us from westerly winds and rain.

What does this mean for those of us who garden?

We face the challenge of choosing plants that can thrive with little water and extreme temperatures. A unique climate presents us with the opportunity for a unique solution — a plant palette suited to

Life On

CAPITOL HILL

A publication of

Mailing Address: 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110 Phone: 303-566-4100 To subscribe call 303-566-4100 or visit www.lifeoncaphill.com/subscribe

our region that allows us to create beautiful, region-specific landscapes.

There are many plants that thrive in a semi-arid climate that also tolerate our summer heat and winter cold. Rather than using plants from the East and West coasts, the South and the Midwest, where soil, temperature and precipitation differ dramatically from ours, we can use plants from other countries that have similar climates.

GUEST COLUMN Annie Barrow

SEE GARDEN, P11

y time as the council representative for the FINE District 9 is ending, and July 15 will be my last day. As I close this chapter of my life, I’ve been reflecting on what we’ve been able to accomplish together over the last eight years.

My unlikely journey into politics began with a frenzied pace and on July 17, 2011, I was sworn in as the youngest African-American councilperson ever elected in Denver, having just beat 38 candidates in the most crowded race in Denver’s history. I had no political experience, but it was my passion for young people and my vision for connecting diverse communities that drove me.

We set a strong pace with our 100 Day Plan, which outlined our office’s priorities for the first 100 days in office. At the end of those first 100 days it became very clear that if our office was to be successful we would need to actively listen to the needs and desires of constituents across Denver’s most diverse district. So, we launched the “Imagin8 Listening Tour,” a districtwide professionally facilitated listening tour designed to map out the ideas and needs of the people. The goal was to capture the imagination of residents by asking engaging questions, analyzing the results and turning them into action.

Every initiative I led was sparked from conversations I had while knocking on thousands of doors and from the data we gathered on this tour. An effective council person listens, legislates and leads.

I want to share what I heard from you and your neighbors, and how we turned that into a robust set of progressive accomplishments.

You said, “We want safer neighborhoods and improved public safety.” So while I was

JERRY HEALEY President

ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant

jhealey@coloradocommunitymedia.com

eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ANN MACARI HEALEY Executive Editor ahealey@coloradocommunitymedia.com

KAILYN LAMB Editor klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ERIN FRANKS Production Manager efranks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com

a n o A P n a a council president we a GUEST passed the most progres- u COLUMN sive use-of-force policy f in the nation. The crime rate has dropped, even h though our population o has drastically increased.

You said, “We want c bold investments in l our young people.” So t we worked to fund and s expand the Denver — n Councilmember Preschool Program, providing universal s Albus Brooks access to preschool for s all 4-year-olds in Denver. t I also decriminalized marijuana possession K for residents 18-21 years old, preventing thousands of young people from entering the a criminal justice system.

You said, “We want a new rec center in the t district.” So I carried on the work and legacy S of my predecessor and helped build Denver’s f best recreation center, which proudly bears her name — the Carla Madison Recreation Center.

You said, “We want a nonprofit that we can take our ideas to.” So we launched a nonprofit that built upon the assets of residents.

You said, “We want better parks.” So we made improvements to every single park in District 9.

You said, “We want the Five Points to thrive, once again.” So we helped lead a renaissance of new investment along Welton Street, empowering the next generation of women and minority business leaders.

SEE BROOKS, P11

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

Life On Capitol Hill 11

July 2019

Garden FROM PAGE 10

For example, red hot poker, also known as regal torch lily (Kniphofia caulescens) is a native to South Africa where it lights up acres of terrain with its showy summer flowers.

Another garden gem is Diascia integerrima or P009S Coral Canyon ® twinspur. This perennial provides coral pink flowers all summer and throughout fall. Red feathers, or Echium amoenum, is a member of the borage family and is native to Mongolia. This species has upright red blooms on stalks up to 1-foot long from June through August.

Some of the most popular garden perennials have alternative native species that do better in our region.

For example, Echinacea purpurea or purple coneflower, is a popular flower known for its late summer color and its medicinal properties. However, Echinacea angustifolia is the species native to the western United States — it is drought-tolerant and thrives in our native, lean soils. Another example of a native species is Liatris punctata, which is better suited to Colorado’s dry and lean soils than the more commonly found Liatris spicata Kobold.

Cultivated native plants boast improved aesthetics and naturally thrive in our region.

Gaillardia aristata is a short-lived perennial that is native to the western half of the United States. The cultivars of this plant are many and for good reason. Often, blanket flower can

Brooks FROM PAGE 10

You said, “We want better infrastructure as Denver grows.” So I chaired the Council Committee for Elevate Denver GO Bond, which brought in more than $232 million of new investment to District 9 alone. This means we’re building the Denver that our grandchildren will be able to enjoy.

You said, “We want more affordable housing.” So we created Denver’s first affordable housing fund and largest in the state, resulting in more new affordable housing than any other district. Now, we have more than 5,400 units of low-income and workforce housing in the district with more in the pipeline.

You said, “We want healthier neighborhoods.” So we eliminated food deserts by building new grocery stores and published a healthy cookbook that shared recipes from neighbors across the district.

Since that warm summer day in 2011, when I was sworn into office to serve you, my family has grown; I experienced loss; I served two

The coneflower is a plant that does well in Colorado’s climate.

Plants here need to withstand dry climate, mountains and temperature fluctuation.

COURTESY OF DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS

become floppy and look unkempt. Cultivated varieties offer bunchier plants with flowers that are bolder, brighter, bigger and longerlasting.

Another example is rubber rabbitbrush, which is widespread in Colorado. You see it along roadsides, including Interstate 470, Route 85/Santa Fe Drive and in the open plains. The fact that it grows along highways and in open country indicates that it is one tough plant! Rabbitbrush is an excellent pollinator plant and the dwarf cultivar, Ericameria nauseosa ssp. nauseosa baby blue form, is an easy-to-grow, soft textured, manageable and tidy garden plant.

Whatever you plant, remember: Have fun and enjoy! Identifying and utilizing plants that are well-suited to our region makes gardening work much easier.

Luckily, much of this work has been done for us through the Plant Select™ Program (www.plantselect.org). This program, a partnership among Denver Botanic Gardens, Colorado State University and the horticulture industry, identifies and trials plants for our region. Plants that meet the program’s criteria are labeled Plant Select and can be found at your local garden centers— just look for the Plant Select tag!

Whatever you plant, remember that while Colorado has unique gardening challenges, we have unique plant solutions as well!

Annie Barrow is the manager of horticulture outreach programs with the Denver Botanic Gardens. She can be reached at horticulture@ denverbotanicgardens.org.

terms as council president; I beat cancer, twice; and I built an office that effectively handled thousands of constituents’ issues each year while sponsoring countless neighborhood events.

While leaving after an electoral loss is bittersweet, my heart is full, and I am incredibly proud of the work our office was able to accomplish. I look forward to being able to spend more time with my wife and our kids, and I will continue to serve the residents of this great city in a new capacity.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you over these last eight years as your councilman.

It has truly been the highest honor of my life to fulfill my calling to build an inclusive Denver.

Denver Councilmember Albus Brooks represents District 9. The district covers north central Denver, including City Park, the Central Business District, Five Points and more. Brooks served as council president from July 2016 to July 2018.

He can be reached at Albus.Brooks@Denvergov. org. Brooks was recently unseated by Candi CdeBaca in the June runoff election. Cdebaca will be sworn in with the rest of City Council on July 15.

Lakewood Citizens Who (during the late 1960s & early 1970s)

Helped Make Belmar Park Possible Vern Albers Ann Allison Geary Andrews Nora Andrews Glenn Asakawa Ruth Austin John & Kelly Ayers Carolyn, Mary & Marty Bacher Frank, Laura, Renee & Allan Bales Mr. & Mrs. Ray Ball Randy Barnes Barbara Bartell Jerry Bartell Jim Battan Norma Beard Dr. L. David Beckman Karl & Ruth Bell Lynn, Gary & David Bell Izola Berman Louise Best Jackie Billingsley Andy Bishop Mandy & Matt Boroughs Barbara Bosley Bruce & Lenore Brammeier Suzie Brasselero Kirk, Sheila, Ava & Doug Bremer Ruth Brenman Estelle Brown Shirley & John Bubany Joyce Bullard Richard, Sandy & Donald Calahan Harold, Forrest, Heather & A. Capps Caroline Carey Sharon Carr Lary Carlson Donald L. Carpenter Don Carson Judy Carston Barbara Case Brent Chlueter Dave Choate Steve Christinsen Jerry Claussen Maggie Cleemput Dave & Chris Coca Pat Cooke Midge Copley Carol Cozart Kathryn Crabtree Mr. & Mrs. Ernest Cummins Christy & Cory Cummins Kay Czarnecki Joe, Richard & Leslie Daniele Bob Davis Bill & Deron Dilger Marion Ditson Lewis Dorr Warren Dunkin Mary Ann Dozel Barbie Dunn Stephen Earley

Carol Easlow Sharon ElIis Lillian Enns Lisa Evans Pam Exon Mr. & Mrs. Carter Farrar Jo Ann Feder Peter Fieber Greg & Andrea Fernandez Edith Fessler Dr. Carl Flaming Betty Ford Flossie Fortier Don & Barb Freiberg Sandee & Robin Furuta Darrell Gallo Ed Garlry Mr. & Mrs. Emil Geilert Mark Gidley Lela Gilbert W. Gillespie Bob Giltner Glenn Glass Ron Gordon Helen Gorhman Ben Greene Estes B. Griffith Dr. Charles Grosshans Gregg Groves Helen Gryczan Abby Hamilton Helen Hamsby Craig Hanson John Harrison Anita Harshman Gary Heckendor Jim Heese Doug, Pat, Kristen, Tammy & Matt Heifer A Heinrich Bill Henderson Louis Henke Marilyn Henning Dick Hilker Pat Hinkle Mie Hiraki Darryl Hobson Nancy Hogan Micky & Glenda Holt Kevin Hood Mark Hubbard Jim Hubber Bob Hussey Betty & L. L. Jackson Donna Jacobs Fred Johnson Mrs. Wayne Johnson Joe & Cal Johnston Mr. & Mrs. Ted Kalstrom Mr. & Mrs. Marvin Karlin James Katchur Raleigh Kay Kerry Kimht Norman, Beverly, Mary, Ray, Judy & Scott King David, Kathy & Kitty Kleinkopf The Henry Klemer

Family Brian Knight Judy Kolz Dave & Gaye Komara Mr. & Mrs. Emil Krause Alice Kruse Ruth M. Lang Ron Larson Family B. J. LaPlante Caroline Lege Larry & Lou Linden Al Lindholm Dorothy & Jerry Lindquist Maureen Linn Marcie Lloyd George Losasso Jack & Barbara Lopez Barbara Lovelace Ann Luke Pat Lynch CaroI Mackell Stuart MacPhail Myrna Maier Bob Maines Donald Manning Gene R. Marlatt Brad Martinez H. Masonier Mr. & Mrs. Leroy Mellecker Mike Messick Mrs. W. H. McAnally Roger McCoy Joan McCrary Shawn & Scott McLaughlin Casey & Kelly McMinimee Betty Jane Meadows Stacey Metz Reuben, Charles, Shirley, Eric, Brad, Stacy, Vic, Jill & Mark Miller T. Milner Frank Mollner Ben Moore Linda Morton Allen Mullen Joe, Beth, Donna & Karen Musich Gene & Evelyn Neal Elfi & Karl Nelson Karen Newman Beth Nolte Danny O’Dowd Sue Organ H. E. Orndoff Jean Osbaugh F. E. Ospina Ann, Lynn, Bobby & Steve Pape Edwin Park Clay Patton Richard Payne Jane Pecorelli Clifford Pederson John Peel Mr. & Mrs. James Peiffer

Mrs. Wayne Perry Alea Peters Sandi Phillips (Gallegos) Nita Pratt Michelle Reasoner Howard & Cathy Revie Ruth Rhodes Joy Rivers Kelly Robson Jay Rohrer Bill Rosenberg Craig & Marty Russell Cindy Ryan Ella May Sargent Jean Saum Brigitta Schafer Margot Schafer Rick Schemel Susan, Amy & Elizabeth Schmitt Mark Senti Brent Schlueter Jim Schneider Jeff Shaw Linda Shaw CarIene Smail Gaylor, Steve & Mitch Smith Marie Snider Joyce Spears Monica Soan Anne Starner Tim Stone Lois Strohm Carl, Jane, Jeff, Jennifer & Ted Swanson Mim Swartz R. M. Taylor Mr. & Mrs. Jack Thomas Chester, Jean, Kris & Lisa Thompson Paul, Jean & Nordy Thompson Grace Tidball Chris Troudt Dee Dee Urquhart Mr. & Mrs. Hugh Van Male CIair, Mike & Steve Villano Gerri Von Frellick Clay Wade Lloyd Wagner Mr. & Mrs. Bill Webb Chris & Victor Westfall Carol White Deloras Whitlock Ivan L. Widom Dawn Wiest Katherine Wilcox Masbelle, Kristi & Glenice Williams Bill Wilson Walt Wise Dorothy Wisecarver Dieter Wons Ruth Wrench Bob & Opal Wright Doug Yates David & Joan Young John Young

… AND MANY MORE

A FREE copy of “The True Story of How Belmar Park Came Into Existence” is available to each of the above named people (or if deceased, to their spouse, daughter or son) just by asking at the Lakewood Heritage Center, 801 South Yarrow Street. Offer good through 6/30/2019.

12 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

G R O W I N G PAINS

People can’t ‘afford to live where they work’ City officials look for solutions to help residents find — and stay — in their homes

V

“I think I have a responsibility now to put my best foot forward.”

By Kailyn Lamb klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

D

eanie Labriola is a woman who counts her blessings.

A month ago she moved into her new apartment in Arvada.

Her living room has a few chairs, as well as a dining table. Her dog and cat keep her company.

“There’s still a lot more things that I need,” she said, “but I have a lot more than I had.”

After spending 20 years as a homeless woman in Denver, Labriola, 58, is proud of the space she now calls her own. She found the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless after participating in one of the organization’s Fort Lyons program eight years ago. It was a drug rehabilitation program that also helped with chronic homelessness. Now, Labriola works with a case manager to help with a housing voucher, medical needs and classes at the Community College of Denver.

Labriola’s journey to her home was a long one.

The waiting list for housing through the coalition is about two or three years. The first apartment she lived in was on Colfax Avenue, which presented a challenge to Labriola who had committed to staying sober, but was now within direct reach of drugs FOR MORE and alcohol on the INFORMATION street. She transferred to an apartFor more information ment in Aurora on housing programs for a short time through the Denver before finding her Office of Economic current place in Development, her hometown of go to https://bit.

Arvada. ly/2GAJe4I. The quiet neighFor different reborhood is close sources for homeless to the light rail so people in Denver, Labriola can get go to https://bit. to class. There’s a ly/2Y7IMDL. “sense of peace” that she loves.

There’s also a park behind her house where she can walk her dog. She’s trying to walk up to two miles a day. After working with the coalition, her goal, she said, is to better herself.

“The harder I work, the harder they seem to work for me,” Labriola said. “I think I have a responsibility now to put my best foot forward.”

SEE HOMES, P13

v H a i

Deanie Labriola

Deanie Labriola sits in her Arvada home with her dog, Charlie. Larbiola was formerly homeless for 20 years, and recently moved to an PHOTOS BY KAILYN LAMB apartment in Arvada.

ABOUT THE SERIES

Larbiola said that although she doesn’t have a lot of furniture in her house now, it’s more than she used to have when she was homeless. She said that she is proud of the home she has started to build for herself.

The third installment of “Growing Pains,” a series exploring development and growth in Denver communities, continues this month with a look how housing is impacted by growth. The first segment in May focused on development citywide and such issues as displacement and what Denver is doing to meet those challenges, followed by the second piece on how development impacts neighborhoods.

Future installments will explore how development affects business growth and the connection between construction and the economy. If you have a story about how development has affected your life, email Editor Kailyn Lamb at klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

HOUSING BY THE NUMBERS • Average price a home sold for in May 2019:

D f e i D w a s s f d m

• Average price a home sold for in May 2013:

• Average rent for a onebedroom in May 2019:

$555,000 $308,000 $1,072

• Average rent for a onebedroom in May 2014:

• Estimated number of homeless people living in the Front Range:

• Number of affordable units currently under contsruction:

$917

Around 5,600

1,603

o m S o t g

Life On Capitol Hill 13

July 2019

G R O W I N G PAINS

Homes

’

FROM PAGE 12

Vulnerable populations Over the past several years, Denver has continued to grow — from almost 600,000 in 2010 to an estimated 716,000 this year, according to U.S. Census Bureau records.

Developers have tried to keep up with housing demand. But costs of apartments and houses had already started to climb. The new apartment stock coming into Denver is largely for luxury renters, which makes it difficult for those with lower and middle incomes to live in the city.

And the 2018 Point in Time survey, conducted by the Metro Denver Homelessness Initiative, counted about 5,600 homeless people living in the Front Range.

Britta Fisher, chief housing officer with the Office of Economic Development in Denver, has been in her role for just over a year.

Mayor Michael B. Hancock hired Fisher her after he began to change the function of the Office of Economic Development to focus on affordable housing.

So far, Fisher said the city has started on 1,603 affordable units in the city this year, with another 458 breaking ground within the next year.

“Our construction pipeline is

Much of the furniture Labriola buys for herself comes from the thrift store. She works with the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless to get a housing voucher to live in her apartment.

PHOTOS BY KAILYN LAMB robust,” Fisher said. “We’ll be adding to that throughout the year.”

While Fisher said they are trying to spread those affordable units throughout Denver, city staff are also trying to pay attention to where vulnerable populations are living and where the most need exists.

Unfortunately, those areas aren’t hard to find, she said. “It’s not hard to find need for affordable housing in Denver.”

The average rent for a onebedroom apartment in Denver is $1,072 according to Apartment List.

That’s up from $917 in May 2014.

House prices are not much better. In May, the average house in the metro area sold for more than $555,000, according to the Denver Metro Association of Realtors. In May 2013,

the average price a house sold for just over $308,000.

Keeping a home For many in Denver, the issue is not only finding housing, but staying in it. And the city has been working on a number of ideas to help residents do that, Fisher said.

Various assistance programs exist, such as Rent and Utility Assistance, as well as the Temporary Mortgage Assistance program. The city also expanded the preservation ordinance on how long units must remain affordable to 60 years from 20 years.

Labriola said that if a person has lived on the street for a number of years, he or she may not have the skill sets to do laundry or cook in a

kitchen. They also might not have some of the basic supplies people think of when they move into a home, such as dishware. Some housing is also not close to stores or bus routes.

These setbacks, along with addiction problems, may turn people back to the streets. Labriola estimated that about 50% of the people she went to rehab with are on the streets again.

“I don’t know what can be done to change it,” she said. “A lot of people get housing, but lose it.”

For some of Denver’s most vulnerable populations — such as the homeless — staying in housing is crucial.

Cathy Alderman, vice president of communications and public policy with the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, which among its many projects also works on programming to keep people in homes.

“In Denver,” she said, “people can’t really afford to live where they work.”

She advocates for more housing options for the whole income spectrum because housing, she said, is often not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Families and couples have different needs than a single person. Families with children are often invisible in the homeless population, Alderman said. Many parents will try and find accommodations for their children to keep them safe. Being homeless as a child is something that impacts their development greatly, she added. Children are in constant survival mode when living on the streets.

“It’s heart-wrenching,” Alderman said. “That uncertainty just sort of carries with them for the rest of their lives.”

A new path in life Labriola knows firsthand that it can be difficult to live as a woman on the street.

When she first moved to Denver in the early ‘90s, she started working as a cocktail waitress. But once she became addicted to drugs she turned to prostitution to make money, she said. Eventually, eight years ago she was given a choice, she said: serve a year-long prostitution sentence in jail or join a community program.

“I did good for a month or two and then I’d relapse,” she said.

“People don’t realize how fast you can fall.”

After spending 20 months in the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless’ Fort Lyon program, Labriola is slowly getting back on her feet. This year, she will have been off of drugs for four years and off of alcohol for one.

She decided to go to school for human services because she knows exactly what it’s like to go hungry.

At one time, she was living on $179 a month. Even when she had little to give, Labriola said she was giving what she could so people could brush their teeth or buy a meal.

Now, she wants to explore doing that as her job.

“I think women need some more support,” she said. “I think that’s what I’d like to do.”

One thing Labriola enjoys about her new apartment in Arvada is the sense of quiet and a park. She walks her dog Charlie to the dog park multiple times a day.

14 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

Moving toward

‘people power’ New District 9 Representative looks to be the voice of the people

By Kailyn Lamb klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Candi CdeBaca

COURTESY PHOTO

Editor’s Note: District 9 covers the Globeville, Elyria Swansea, Five Points, Cole, Clayton, Whittier, Skyland, City Park West, City Park, Auraria, Union Station and the Central Business District neighborhoods.

After a tight runoff race, Candi CdeBaca claimed victory in District 9, in what she considers to be a historic win.

CdeBaca is the first democratic socialist to serve on Denver’s City Council. She’s also the first LGBTQ woman of color on council.

“Representation really does matter,” CdeBaca said. “We’ve never had representation from Globeville or Swansea on City Council.”

The campaign for mayor was not the only one to bring in issues of race. During the runoff race flyers were distributed in the Clayton neighborhood with images of incumbent Albus Brooks’ face on top of a monkey peeling a banana. The flyer read “Time for this monkey to go,” and claimed to come from CdeBaca’s campaign office.

Both Brooks and CdeBaca condemned the flyer, and CdeBaca denied that the flyer came from her campaign.

“We made it very clear that that wasn’t welcome, and that was the opposite of what we were fighting for,” she said.

“Luckily people were able to see through it, and counter it and neutralize it with the positive and the facts.”

She added that since much of the focus of her campaign had been to address racial inequity in Denver, it was not hard

to convince voters that the flyers did not come from her office. But, CdeBaca said it was a teaching moment on the power of campaign ads.

CdeBaca said that the race began to “devolve” during the runoff. From the beginning she had made sure to avoid a negative or smearing campaign against Brooks. Instead, her campaign focused more on giving power to the voters, educating residents on how to become informed voters and making a choice for themselves.

“I never tried to convince somebody at their door to vote for me,” CdeBaca said.

Now that she’s been elected, she’s hopeful that she and the rest of City Council can pose a challenge to the chain of command in the city. Members of City Council, she said, “report to the people and no one else.”

One of the things CdeBaca would like to tackle is the public process with development projects. Projects go to city committees first and then to council before the public gets involved, she said. Many of the residents she spoke to during the campaign felt that they had no voice in the city process. She’s hoping to reverse that and have developers go to the public first since residents are the people who will be impacted most.

Neighborhoods in District 9 have long been home to some of Denver’s most vulnerable populations of people. The district saw more displacement during early development in the city than any other area in Denver.

CdeBaca, a Denver native who’s family has lived in District 9 for the last five generations said that the area is a “part of my being.”

“There’s not a part of my life that doesn’t have this in the background,”she said. “I’ll be looking at policy making and engagement through the lens of the people who have been the most forgotten and silenced.”

MEET YOUR NEW CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

The area of Life on Capitol Hill is covered by two Denver City Council districts: 9 and 10.

In June, two new council members were elected to those districts. Councilmember Candi CdeBaca will represent District 9, while Councilmember Chris Hinds will represent District 10. Both will be sworn in with

the rest of the City Council on July 15.

In the August issue, look for our profiles of the two City Council-at-Large members.

At-Large councilmembers represent the city as a whole. Both Deborah Ortega and Robin Kniech were reelected this year.

Priv Bookiate Avail ngs able

ROOFTOP NOW OPEN!

931 E. 11th ∙ 303-832-7667 theparktaverndenver.com

Local Focus.

More News.

18 newspapers.

20 websites.

Connecting YOU to your LOCAL community.

303-566-4100

ColoradoCommunityMedia.com

‘

Life On Capitol Hill 15

July 2019

‘Balance the

growth for the future’

New District 10 representative sets sights on mobility in Denver

By Kailyn Lamb klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Editor’s Note: District 10 covers the Uptown, Golden Triangle, Capitol Hill, Cheesman Park, Congress Park, Alamo Placita, Country Club and Cherry Creek neighborhoods.

As he begins to wind down from the June runoff campaign, newly elected Chris Hinds says he’s already started to receive calls and is scheduling meetings with District 10 residents. New councilmembers aren’t sworn in until July 15, but Hinds is considering this as training for the job.

Since he won’t receive full-time staff from the city until he’s sworn in, Hinds is currently a one-man band, he said.

“The elect part means you have all of the responsibility, but none of the resources,” he said. “I’m doing my best to try to field concerns.”

Hinds was part of a city council shake-up that unseated three incumbent councilmembers, including District 10’s former representative, Wayne New. Hinds said he felt like voters used their voices in “making sure we have government that represents the people.”

Hinds has been brainstorming a list of

d n o c Se l a u n An

Chris Hinds

COURTESY PHOTO

ideas he wants to accomplish, he said. Mobility in Denver — a key component to his campaign and an issue that drew Hinds into politics — will be a main focus.

In 2008, Hinds was hit by a car while riding his bike. The accident left him with a spinal cord injury, and he has since used a wheelchair to get around. Nearly 10 years after the accident, then-Gov. John Hickenlooper signed the Chris Hinds Act into law.

The act created a placard which exempted

people with disabilities from paying for parking if they are physically unable to use a meter.

His work on that law was an inspiration to Hinds. “If they’re going to start naming laws after me as a private citizen,” he thought, “imagine what I could do with legislation.”

Among his ideas on improving mobility are creating protected bike lane networks in the city and providing better sidewalk access for pedestrians and people who use wheelchairs. Denver’s uneven sidewalks can often feel like a “war zone,” Hinds said.

In addition to the physical layout of sidewalks, Hinds said he frequently heard from people while he was campaigning that construction projects often block sidewalks or take away from local parking.

The city should be “making sure we all have the freedom to get from A to B, and feel safe while doing it,” he said.

As a district that is close to both downtown and Cherry Creek, Hinds sees the area as a potential starting point for multimodal systems in the city. Although he recognizes the city can’t get rid of cars and parking lots overnight, the council needs to better prioritize transit and biking to enact change: “I see District 10 as a strong opportunity. It’s the best district to tackle and lead our noncar movement in Denver.”

The city also needs to find a better, more balanced system of growth, Hinds said.

“We have to balance the growth for the future of Denver,” he said, “with the people who live here today.”

get

inspired (get going!)

Summer art camps for kids 6-17 still available

‘Summer of Play’ exhibit showing through August 2 FALL 2019 | SEP 3–DEC 22

Registration for fall session opens July 8

200 Grant St. • Denver 303-778-6990 • ASLD.org

Book Arts | Ceramics | Drawing | Fiber | Jewelry

Mixed Media | Painting | Photography | Printmaking | Sculpture Specialty Workshops | Visiting Artist Series | Teen Programs

Holiday

Craft Show and Mini-Market Admission is free to the public

Saturday Nov. 30

10am - 4pm

Sunday Dec. 1

10am - 2pm

Jefferson County Fairgrounds

15200 W. 6th Ave. Golden, CO.

Come shop for unique gifts and special items during the first-ever Colorado Community Media Holiday Craft Show and Mini-Market; With more than 100 exhibitors filling the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, this is the best place to find that special, personal gift for friends and family. The show will feature handmade crafts in all areas from metal and leather, to flowers, baskets, ceramics, and so much more.

Vendors Needed | Interested in selling your handmade crafts??

Contact Event Producer Thelma Grimes at tgrimes@coloradocommunitymedia.com All applications must be approved to participate

16 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

Mayor Hancock’s third term ‘an opportunity to be bold’ In his final term as mayor, Hancock hopes to build on his successes

By Kailyn Lamb klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Mayor Michael B. Hancock was recently elected for his third and final term.

COURTESY OF CITY OF DENVER

The people, places, & things that make Colfax, Colfax.

FOLLOW THE BLOG @CHARACTERSOFCOLFAX @CHARACTERSOFCOLFAX @CHRCTRSOFCOLFAX CHARACTERSOFCOLFAX.COM

After winning his third term as mayor, Michael B. Hancock is taking on a new strategy: He wants to tackle equity in Denver and ensure growth in the city benefits all.

“A third term also presents an opportunity to be bold,” Hancock said.

One of those bold strategies is increasing wages for the people of Denver. Wages are one of the roots to the problem of the housing crisis, Hancock said.

“We’ve got to boost wages,” he said. “In workforce housing, without boosting wages, we are missing the whole formula.”

Going into the campaign for his third term, Hancock had a list of projects that are underway, such as development along Brighton Boulevard in River North, airport improvements, the redevelopment of the National Western Complex and more, which he had worked for since he was first elected.

“Those are things that in 2011, when I came into office, I was committed to completing,” he said.

But the campaign also alerted Hancock and his team that Denver residents were unaware of some of his work behind the scenes in programming for homelessness and affordable housing in Denver. “We’ve got to do a better job of building awareness,” he said of the city’s efforts on those fronts.

Hancock recently began focusing the Office of Economic Development in Denver more toward the housing crisis. Last year, he hired Britta Fisher as the city’s new chief of housing. This year, Hancock raised the housing budget to a record $50 million in an effort to fund more housing projects. Hancock also created a new office, the Neighborhood Equity and Stabilization Team, headed by former state senator Irene Aguilar. The office works with some of Denver’s most vulnerable populations to create programming to help people stay in their homes as prices and taxes rise.

“When we were able to talk about what we were doing, people got it,” Hancock said of working on the campaign trail. “We were able to change minds.”

The race for mayor was one of several that ended in a runoff. Hancock faced off against Jamie Giellis, a developer behind the growth in RiNo. Hancock is no stranger to runoff elections. He won his first term in 2011 after a runoff election pitted him against Chris Romer. Before running for mayor, Hancock represented District 11 starting in 2003 on the Denver City Council.

But this particular runoff became a grueling one, as issues of race and sexual harassment were brought center stage. As

“When we were able to talk about what we were doing, people got it ...

We were able to change minds.”

Michael B. Hancock, Denver Mayor

an African American man, race has always been an important issue to him, Hancock said. But, he said, voters “needed to hear that I still care about those issues.”

In February 2018, Hancock was accused of sexual harassment by Leslie Branch-Wise, who worked as part of the mayor’s security detail in 2011-2012. She said the mayor made inappropriate comments, many through text messages to her while she worked for him.

Those allegations came to the surface again as opponent Giellis said she wanted to fight a “culture of sexual harassment.”

Hancock publicly apologized for the text messages he sent. He added that after Branch-Wise came forward, he began to speak with survivors of sexual harassment and assault. Those talks, he said, “helped me to have a better posture” and acted as a lesson to him.

Moving into his third term as mayor, Hancock hopes Denver residents will remember him as someone who built up the city. Back in 2010, Denver was not a well-known city, he said. Now, it frequently makes lists for best place to raise a family, best place to build a start-up company and the like, Hancock said.

“We weren’t on those lists of top 100 cities,” he said. “We were able to move Denver forward as the most modern globally competitive city.”

Since starting as a city council member, Hancock has also worked on boosting children’s programming in Denver. The My Denver program gives free access to Denver children to museums, recreation centers and libraries to children. Last November, Denver voters also approved a scholarship fund for low-income students.

“We have completed the circle of care if you will, for young people of Denver,” Hancock said of his work with kids.

After eight years serving Denver, and living here for most of his life, Hancock says its people are still his favorite part about the city.

“Denver residents are some of the most engaging, open and honest,” he said. “They love good, frank conversation, even if they don’t agree with you.”

INAUGURATION ADDRESS

Powered by

The city will be holding an inauguration event on July 15 at 10 a.m. Mayor Michael B. Hancock and the newly elected municipal officials will be sworn in, followed by an inauguration address.

The event will be held on the front steps of the City and County Building, 1437 Bannock St.

A concert and celebration will be held that evening at the Denver Botanic Gardens at 6 p.m.

For more information, go to https://onedenver.org/.

Life On Capitol Hill 17

July 2019

Healthy garden, healthy life

From left, Eva Coringrato, Angel Villalobos, Jill Litt and Erin Decker stand in the Regis Community Garden. The group is working on a study that will look into how gardening impacts people’s health.

GLENN J. ASAKAWA

A study looks into the impacts of urban gardening on health and cancer prevention

By Bruce Goldberg Special to Colorado Community Media

More than 100 people in the Denver area are participating in a research study about community gardening that’s now in its third year. They’re learning plenty about how to grow a garden — but they also may be planting the seeds for their own good health and a stronger community.

They also get to enjoy the fruits of their labor, growing tomatoes, peppers, squash, green beans and other types of vegetables.

A combined 280 people participated in the first two years and another 106 currently are in the program, a partnership that is backed by the American Cancer Society, which is funding the study, and the University of Colorado Boulder, the University of Colorado Cancer Center, Colorado State University, Denver Urban Gardens, Community Activation for Prevention Study, Michigan State University and University of South Carolina. Similar studies are happening in other states.

“What we’re trying to find is how urban gardening affects community health,” said Natasha Hill, development and communications coordinator at Denver Urban Gardens, a nonprofit which has 180-plus community gardens in cities such as Denver, Arvada, Lakewood and Aurora; 40 of them are participating in this project. The organization also helps with 66 gardens at area schools.

“We genuinely believe that teaching people how to garden and physically grow their own goods will help people be more nutritious and maybe more holistically healthy as a community,” Hill said.

Study results won’t be released until December 2020.

But as noted by Angel Villalobos, program manager and a research assistant in CU-Boulder’s Environmental Studies Department, “People are really excited to garden, and we hope to bridge the gap between people that are interested in being part of a community garden or in gardening in general and getting connected with a

Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve!

• Get help paying dental bills and keep more money in your pocket • This is real dental insurance — NOT just a discount plan • Get affordable coverage before your next checkup

Don’t wait! Call now and we’ll rush you a FREE Information Kit with all the details.

1-855-993-1460

dental50plus.com/rockymtn This policy does not include coverage of pediatric dental services as required under The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010. Coverage of pediatric dental services is available for purchase in the State of Colorado and can be purchased as a stand-alone plan. Please contact Connect for Health Colorado to purchase either plan that includes pediatric dental coverage or an Exchange-certified stand-alone dental plan that includes pediatric dental coverage. This policy has limitations. For costs and complete details of the coverage, call or write to the company. Insurance Policy P150 AW19-1039 6210

nearby community garden.”

The study has been open to new gardeners and/or people that haven’t gardened in the past two garden seasons that are ages 18 and up. Participation in the research study is voluntary. The program offers one class as a general orientation before each gardening season, plus Denver Urban Gardens offers free workshops yearround.

To gather information on the health effects of gardening, researchers ask participants to complete a 200-question survey three times a year, delving into their general health, what they eat, what they do to stay physically active, their neighborhoods, their relationships with neighbors and family, and if they feel connected.

Just in case they get too comfortable, participants are asked to wear an activity monitor on one of their legs for seven days – three times a year.

“The idea is to learn what role those factors play in cancer,” Villalobos said. For example, it’s beneficial to eat more fruits and vegetables because of their high fiber content. And the exercise that gardeners get just from nurturing their plots is good for them.

Study participants are compensated $150 per person and given startup kits, plot fees and up to $50 in other garden expenses.

Jill Lipp, an associate professor in CU-Boulder’s environmental studies department, is the principal investigator. Katherine Alaimo, an associate professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, is the co-principal investigator.

Villalobos said in addition to doing health research, the study has been building relationships with its participants. Many stay in touch with him after their volunteer year concludes.

“Seeing the amount of enthusiasm for participants to be part of this kind of research has been really encouraging and unexpected,” he said. “How excited they are when you talk to them about the study has been surprising to me.”

GET FRESH “The Standout Market in Colorado”

–USA TODAY

A FRESH TAKE ON FARMERS MARKETS

MAY THROUGH OCTOBER Featuring an awarding-winning mix of fresh flowers, local produce, gourmet products & delicious cuisine since 1997.

LOCATIONS CHERRY CREEK FREE PARKING CITY PARK ESPLANADE RINO STAPLETON coloradofreshmarkets.com @coloradofreshmarkets

18 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

Apollopalooza celebrates 50th anniversary of moon landing One small step for man, one giant leap for Wings Over the Rockies

By Clarke Reader Special to Colorado Community Media

F

Gene Kranz was an aerospace engineer with NASA and helped direct the first lunar landing in 1969. Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum will be hosting a 50th anniversary event this month in honor of the first Americans to land on the moon.

COURTESY OF NASA

¶ Quality Senior Living ¶

Communities Offering Affordable Housing for Seniors and Disabled.

• Rent based on 30% of adjusted income • Utilities included • Pet Friendly • On bus route or near Light Rail • On-site Laundry

HIGGINS PLAZA

• Individually controlled heating and A/C • Fitness room • Smoke-free buildings • 62+ or disabled needing features of ADA unit • Computer labs

MARIAN PLAZA

1380 Detroit St. • 303-320-4990

1818 Marion St. • 303-837-1818

1575 Pennyslvania • 303-837-1424

1300 Bruce Randolph • 303-297-1414

CATHEDRAL PLAZA

ST. MARTIN PLAZA

No emergency or immediate housing is available.

An Affiliate of Catholic Charities TRS 711 ∙ www.archhousing.com

or those who weren’t alive on the night of July 20 a half-century ago, it’s difficult to imagine what it must’ve been like to see men land on the moon for the first time. For the millions watching, it was an event that will never be forgotten.

Metro resident Stephen Kelly certainly didn’t. And when a little over a year-anda-half ago he realized the landing’s 50th anniversary was nearing, he thought it was an occasion worth celebrating.

“I went to the management at the Wings Over the Rockies Museum, where I had volunteered for a long time, and mentioned to them this was coming,” Kelly said. “I thought it would be great if the museum could commemorate the event.

Originally, I was thinking of a one-day event to celebrate. It’s really expanded since then.”

Apollopalooza will be held at the air and space museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd. in Denver, from July 13-20. The event will feature everything from film screenings and Apollo veterans panels to a STEAM festival and career mingle.

“There are a lot of milestones that can be celebrated: Yuri Gagarin’s flight as the first human in space, Alan Shepard as the first American in space and Apollo 8.

However, the Apollo 11 moon landing has the feel of a triumph that can be touched,” wrote Jessica Castellano, Wings Over the Rockies’ chief development officer, in an email interview. “We not only went to space, we touched it, walked on it, and came home. Nothing has been the same since that day, for our aerospace heroes and for our global citizens.”

One of the main goals was to offer an event of substance and without fluff, said Kelly, who chaired the committee that organized Apollopalooza.

Fortunately, education is a key part of Wings’ mission statement, and Denver is home to a burgeoning aerospace industry.

National titans like Ball Aerospace, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Sierra Nevada Corp. all call the state home.

“We have a great line-up in-store, including folks from the Colorado School of Mines and University of Colorado, who don’t just teach in these fields – they’re involved in current programs working to get people back on the moon,” Kelly explained. “We have a number of folks that were actually veterans of the Apollo program in one aspect or another, and these guys have some stories to tell.”

Some of the marquee names include Gene Kranz, NASA flight director for all Project Gemini missions, as well as Apollo 11. He also was the leader of the Apollo 13 “Tiger Team” (actor Ed Harris played him in Ron Howard’s “Apollo 13” film).

Dr. Harrison H. Schmitt, an Apollo 17 astronaut and moonwalker, and Joe Engle, astronaut and X-15 pilot from Colorado Springs, are just a few other people who will be on hand.

There’s a lot of interactive and social events to be excited about, including a Launch Day Breakfast with Kranz on July 16, and a Moon Landing Viewing Party on July 20 that features a live band, dancers, barbecue dinner and themed costumes for the night, capped with a screening of the moon landing timed to the minute it happened 50 years ago.

Apollopalooza is an all-ages event, but students and millennials are being particularly catered to with events that exhibit education and career opportunities in related fields.

The STEAM For All Festival on July 14 is focused on community accessibility to aerospace and will feature workshops, activities and more. Because the event isn’t just about the past – it’s also a look to the future.

“After attending a full day, a lecture or just stopping by to see what all the fuss is about, we hope visitors come away with an amazing appreciation for the thousands of men and women who helped put the first men on the moon 50 years ago,” wrote Ben Theune, Wings’ director of marketing, in an email. “We hope guests leave with an excitement about the future of the space industry as a whole and a desire to follow our progress back to the moon in 2024 — and maybe to even get involved.”

IF YOU GO WHAT: Apollopalooza Conversations with NASA and Apollo veterans, film screenings, Moon Landing Viewing Party, STEAM festival and much more.

WHERE: Wings Over the Rockies 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver

WHEN: July 13-20 PASSES: Daily and weekly passes available, as well access to specific events and VIP events.

Prices range from $13 to $185.

INFORMATION: www. wingsmuseum. org/events/ apollo/

Life On Capitol Hill 19

July 2019

Things to Do Submit calendar listings on our website, coloradocommunitymedia.com, go to the Calendar tab and click “Submit an Event.”

Priority is given to non-profits, lowor no-cost events and locations within our distribution map.

Next Issue Deadline: Thursday, July 25.

EVENTS Cherry Creek Arts Festival Friday, July 5 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 6 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday, July 7 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cherry Creek North 2nd through 3rd Avenues from Clayton through Steele Streets cherrycreekartsfestival. org Sonder 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Saturday, July 6 and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 7 Circus Foundry presents “Sonder” a ensemble contemporary circus show. Come experience the excitement of daring acrobatics, impressive aerial feats, and compassionate relatable story telling.

Tickets $25 Cleo Parker Robinson Dance 119 Park Ave. West circusfoundry.com Community Pool Party at the JCC Denver Noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 7 Join us for a pool party with games and swimming regardless of whether you’re a member of the JCC. All we ask is that you bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a big smile. Free to attend.

Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St. jccdenver.org/poolparties/ Create Playdate 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wednesday, July 10 Drop in with your little ones, ages 3 to 5, and meet up with other tots and their grownups for story time, artmaking, and more! Create Playdates are included with general admission, which is free for kids 18 and younger.

Denver Art Museum 100 W. 14th Ave. Pkwy. denverartmuseum.org

Disney Family Film Night 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 10 Join us for an adventurous night of Disney magic with your family and friends! Free for members, free for guests with JCC guest pass.

Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St. jccdenver.org/family-film-night/ Veterans Free Monthly NonNarcotic Care Pop Up Clinic 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 13 Healing Warriors Program (HWP) offers free non-narcotic clinic therapy for pain and PTS on the 2nd Saturday of the month in Denver at VFW Post 1 for all service members and spouse/ partner/parent. Therapies include Acupuncture, CranioSacral Therapy and Healing Touch Therapy. Please bring proof of military service, i.e. DD214 or military ID. VFW Post 1, 841 Santa Fe Drive healingwarriorsprogram.org Hands-On History Family Fun Day 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 13 On the second Saturday of each month, families have the opportunity to explore and create their own history, art, and culture through hands-on, immersive activities like adobe brick making, building log cabins, live performances, and role playing in our exhibits. In July, activities will be themed around wild places in connection with the Wildflowers, Wild Places installation.

Free with admission 303-447-8679 History Colorado Center 1200 Broadway historycolorado.org Birding Without Borders 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 16 Named a “Travel Pioneer” by the BBC and the “Birdman of Razzmatazz” by Newsweek, Noah Strycker is a writer, photographer, and bird man. In 2015, Strycker set himself a lofty goal: to become the first person to see half the planet’s birds in one year. $12 Museum, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, or Audubon member, $15 nonmember 303-370-6000 Denver Museum of Nature & Science 2001 Colorado Blvd. dmns.org

The Science Lounge: Moon Mayhem 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, July 18 Strap on your moon shoes and get ready to explore the lunar surface. Build a rocket and shoot for the moon. Get the history on lunar missions, then see the planetarium show CAPCOM GO. Ages 21+ $13 member, $15 nonmember Cash bar 303-370-6000 Denver Museum of Nature & Science 2001 Colorado Blvd. dmns.org $15 nonmember Historic Styles Brewfest 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, July 20 In celebration of the History Colorado Center’s newest exhibit opening in May, Beer Here!

Brewing the New West, 25 breweries from around the state will fill the museum atrium with historic brews.

History Colorado Center 1200 Broadway historycolorado.org Family Concert with Andrew & Polly 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 25 JCC Denver’s Camp Shai hosts Andrew & Polly for a family concert full of fun original songs and classic favorites that are smart, quirky, and full of heart.

Tickets in advance: $20 per family of four, $5 each additional family member. $30 at the door per family of four, $5 each additional family member.

The Graland Country Day School, 55 Clermont St. Joy of Art Summer Classes run through July 29 The Children’s Art School’s Joy of Art Summer week classes begin on June 24 for young artists ages six to 12 in the University Park neighborhood.

Children’s Art School 2290 South Clayton St. childartcreates@gmail.com Yoga for All Sundays 10 a.m.

Free or donation. Multi-generational and multi-ability class.

720-244-8252 Washington Street Community Center 809 S. Washington St.

Baker Historic Neighborhood Association General Meeting 6:30 p.m., second Tuesday of the month.

As always, we will hear from our Community Resource Officer from Denver Police and learn about different items impacting Baker. Come a little early to socialize and meet some fellow Bakerties.

Hirschfeld Tower, 333 W. Ellsworth Ave. bakerneighborhood.org Chamberlin Observatory Public Night Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30 p.m.

All public nights start with an informative, multi-media astronomy presentation. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for kids and is payable online via PayPal. Reservations are recommended, as nights sell out. Times vary by season.

Observatory Park 2930 E. Warren Ave. denverastro.org/ das/public-nights Why Not Wednesday Wednesdays 4 p.m.

We open wines that most stores wouldn’t dare to open. Whether it’s grand cru champagne, cult cabernet or an amazing bottle of Amarone. Find out what the wine of the week is on our website!

303-282-5103 Pearl Wine Company, 1886 S. Pearl St. pearlwinecompany.com Friends and Neighbors (FANS) of Washington Park 6 p.m., second Wednesday of each month Meetings typically include a brief overview of the latest park news and often feature a guest speaker. Check out the website for the topic of the month.

Washington Park Dos Chappell Bath House, 600 S. Marion Parkway fanswashingtonpark.org

CLASSES, LECTURES, FORUMS Sunday Open Meditation 1st Sunday of the month.

The Center is open to the public for “drop-in” meditation and contemplative practices, 10 a.m.-noon.

Meditation instruction, 10:30 a.m., Padmasambhava Meditation Center, 1900 S. Cook St. padmasambhavameditationcenter. org

English Learning Center Monday-Thursday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. & Wednesday and Thursday 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The English Learning Center, the Evanston Center for Spiritual Wholeness & Healing at 2122 S. Lafayette St., offers affordable day and evening English classes.

For more enrollment info. call 303420-0172, or contact elcdenver@ gmail.com Tibetan Buddhist Meditation Sundays 9:30 a.m.

Learn both Tibetan and rhythmic English chants and brief silent meditations. Led by members of Yeshe Nyingpo Denver, a chapter of the Dudjom Tersar and aligned with the Dalai Lama.

303-294-9258 Mercury Cafe 2199 California St. mercurycafe.com Sunday Open House and Meditation Sundays 10 a.m.

A relaxed and informal Open House in the community room includes information about activities and meditation followed by a discussion and opportunity to meet others.

Meditation instruction is available.

Shambhala Meditation Center of Denver, 2305 S. Syracuse Way, Ste. 214 denver.shambhala.org Meditation and Kirtan Tuesdays 6 p.m.

Leave your troubles behind and practice meditation and Kirtan every Tuesday. For more info call Ed. 720-810-9071 854 Pearl St., Denver Denver Laughter Club Meets every Monday except major holidays at Cheesman Park. Noon to 1 p.m., weather permitting.

Call Vicki for more info.

720-480-5421 Cheesman Park 1900 E. 11th Ave. denverlaughs.com Learn to Code Meetup Mondays, 6 p.m.

An open house/study group for anyone, at any level, with any interest in computer programming. No prior knowledge/future commitment needed.

720-865-1706 ideaLAB Community Technology Center DPL Central Library 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway meetup.com/learntocodedenver Belly Dancing Classes Classes held most Mondays, 7 p.m. beginners, 8 p.m. advanced.

Classes $10 drop-in — Cafe not open.

303-294-9258 Mercury Cafe 2199 California St. mercurycafe.com SEE THINGS TO DO, P20

20 Life On Capitol Hill

Things to Do FROM PAGE 19

Meditation at Noon Tuesdays, 12 p.m.

Take 30 minutes to connect to your heart, cultivate inner peace and happiness, and clarify your intention for the day, free.

303-813-9551 KMC Colorado Capitol Hill, 1081 Marion St. meditationincolorado.org Words of Wisdom Tuesdays 2 p.m.

One word can say it all. Join us as we explore a key word from each week’s parsha and discover inspiration and guidance for our life’s journey.

303-316-6412 The Jewish Experience Center, 399 S. Monaco Pkwy.

Argentine Tango, Practice and Lessons Every Tuesday 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.

Tango Colorado hosts these low cost Tango lessons, followed by a practice session where dancers can polish the steps they learned, interact with other students and advanced dancers and improve their skills.

303-710-2250 Denver Turnverein Event Center, 1570 Clarkson St. tangocolorado.org/lessons Tuesday Night Blues Tuesdays 7 p.m. intermediate, 8 p.m. advanced.

Classes $5, Dance 8:30 p.m., $8 ($10-12 with Live Band) 303-294-9258

July 2019 Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St. mercurycafe.com UNNA Monthly Meeting Second Tuesday of the month Evanston Center for Spiritual Wholeness and Healing, 2122 S. Lafayette St. unna.shutterfly.com West Coast Swing Classes Wednesdays, 7 p.m. beginner/intermediate, 8 p.m. advanced.

Classes $8 303-294-9258 Mercury Cafe 2199 California St. mercurycafe.com Denver Socrates Cafe Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m.

Join a group that “seek truth by their own lights.” No regular attendance or preparation required. Speak your own mind, then take turns playing Socrates by asking questions.

303-861-1447 Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway meetup.com/Denver-Socrates-Cafe Wednesday Nights Open Stage Wednesdays, 9 p.m.

Open Stage for musicians, comics & magicians. Free, sign up with Host 303-294-9258 Mercury Cafe 2199 California St. mercurycafe.com

betan meditation master Chhoje Rinpoche (live or video) followed by meditation instruction.

Padmasambhava Meditation Center, 1900 S. Cook St. padmasambhavameditationcenter.org Daybreak Toastmasters Fridays, 7:00 a.m.

Cat got your tongue? Public speaking and more. Call Bob after 6 p.m. Now meeting on the second floor of the building.

720-308-9090 State of Colorado Centennial Building, 1313 Sherman St. daybreaktoastmasters.org Hard Times Meditation Fridays, 2:30 p.m.

Going through a tough time? Developing mindfulness can often help us find new resiliency. Join professional instructor Nancy Nielsen for a supportive mindfulness meditation class that’s free and open to all. 720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway Happiness Hour Fridays 5:00 p.m.

A short talk and guided relaxing meditation to help increase a peaceful good heart. It is an ideal way to unwind after work and recharge for a great evening ahead. Free.

303-813-9551 KMC Colorado Downtown, 1336 Glenarm Place meditationincolorado.org

Thursday Evening Meditation Thursdays 7 p.m.

Free to the public - all are welcome. Dharma teachings on Buddhist principles by Ti-

KIDSTUFF

YOU LOOK GOOD BISHOPS CITY PARK GRAND OPENING 06/22!

3 825 E AST COLFA X AVE . DENVER , CO 80206

FREE HAIRCUT

FREE CUT* WITH COLOR

REDEEM THIS COUPON AT BISHOPS CITY PARK. MAY NOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. VALID FOR FIRST TIME CLIENTS THRU 07/31/19.

LIFEFC100

REDEEM THIS COUPON AT BISHOPS CITY PARK. MAY NOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS. VALID THRU 07/31/19. LIFEFCWC

LONG / SHORT / BUZZ

*PURCHASE ANY COLOR SERVICE $50+ AND GET A FREE CUT

All Ages Open Lab Sundays 1:00 p.m.

Have a project you want to work on as a family? Want to learn more about Photoshop, 3D printing or anything else in the lab?

Come on in! Family open lab is all ages, but no unaccompanied adults or kids under 10, please!

720-865-1706 ideaLAB in Community Technology Center of DPL Central library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Tattered Tales Storytime Tuesdays 10:30 a.m.

Young children are invited for a half hour of stories and fun, with a different topic each week. Free.

303-322-1965, ext. 2731 Tattered Cover, 2526 E. Colfax Ave. tatteredcover.com Slime Club Tuesdays 4:00 p.m.

Join us to make slime, have snacks and help us rename this weekly event that will happen every Tuesday. Ideal for ages 8-12.

720-865-0940 Virginia Village Branch Library, 1500 S. Dahlia St. www.denverlibrary.org/events

Toddler Storytime Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.

In the Berger Children’s Pavilion, Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their parents or caregivers. Craft activity immediately follows the program. Free.

720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Art Works!

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m.

Preschool Art for ages 3 – 5. We’ll read a book or two and little artists will make a simple craft or experiment with different materials in open-ended art 720-865-0955 Ross-University Hills Branch Library, 4310 E. Amherst Ave. www.denverlibrary.org/events All Ages Storytime Wednesdays 10:30 a.m Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for children of all ages and their parents or caregivers.

720-865-0135 Ross-Broadway Branch Library, 33 E. Bayaud Ave. denverlibrary.org

Girls Who Code Wednesdays 4 p.m.

An afterschool program for girls in middle and high school to learn computer science in a collaborative, engaging and intensive manner, working with women who work in technology fields. Learn Python, build websites, create games and more, free.

720-865-1706 ideaLAB in Community Technology Center of DPL Central library, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway http://denverlibrary.org/idealab Eazy Gaming Wednesdays 4:00 p.m.

Play great video games on a Wii, N64 and PS4. Ideal for ages 6-18.

720-865-0160 Byers Branch Library, 675 Santa Fe Drive www.denverlibrary.org/events Toddler Play & Explore Thursdays 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy unstructured play and social time for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their caregivers. Enjoy books, music, and a variety of developmentally appropriate toys in our warm and inviting play space.

720-865-1111 Denver Public Library: Central branch, 10 W. 14th Ave. Parkway denverlibrary.org Drop-In Snack and Craft!

Thursdays 3 p.m.

Join us for a fun craft and yummy snack every Thursday! All ages. No registration.

While supplies last.

720-865-0220 Eugene Field Branch Library, 810 S. University Blvd. www.denverlibrary.org/events Imagination Station Thursdays, 3 p.m.

Join us for a drop-in playtime on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3-5:30 p.m. Children ages 6 months to 5 years are welcome. Caregivers must remain in the room with their children.

720-865-0220 Decker Branch Library 1501 S. Logan St. www.denverlibrary.org

Life On Capitol Hill 21

July 2019

‘We did our part’

Ruth Mullis, WWII-era ‘Rosie the Riveter,’ hopes to meet others

By David Gilbert dgilbert@coloradocommunitymedia.com

T

here isn’t much time left to get to know someone like Ruth Mullis.

Mullis, 96, is one of a dwindling number of “Rosies,” named for Rosie the Riveter — women who stepped into men’s roles in labor and business during World War II. In years past, Mullis has attended annual American Rosie the Riveter Association (ARRA) reunions, but health issues kept her home from this year’s convention in Iowa.

With much of her generation fading into history, she’s hoping to meet some of her remaining sisters from the home front.

“People are starting to forget about us,” Mullis said from her Littleton home. “Before the war, women could be teachers, secretaries, nurses or housewives. But now, we’ve got women CEOs. We were part of that change.

We proved our capabilities. We were some of the first to wear pants, for heaven’s sake.”

Rosies were a vital part of the American war effort, said ARRA President Donnaleen Lanktree.

“They did it because they needed to do it,” Lanktree said. “Without them, winning the war would have been far more difficult. Many felt a sense of duty to the country, and to do what they could to bring their men home.

Others did it to secure an income if their husbands were killed.”

There were perhaps millions of Rosies, Lanktree said, who produced 80,000 landing craft, 100,000 tanks, 300,000 aircraft, 15 million guns and 41 billion rounds of ammunition.

Rosies possess a special spirit and gumption, Lanktree said: “I never met a Rosie I didn’t like.”

MAMA MAGNOLIA

@ Four Mile Historic Park

JULY 3 2019

SHAKEDOWN STREET

GRATEFUL DEAD TRIBUTE @ Four Mile Historic Park

Ruth Mullis, 96, holds a picture of herself working in an aircraft plant in the 1940s. Mullis, of Littleton, is one of Colorado’s few remaining “Rosies” — women who took on men’s roles in labor and business during World War II. Unable to attend a national reunion this year, Mullis is hoping to meet other Rosies in the area.

DAVID GILBERT wing parts.

“The tolerance for the parts was just three thousandths of an inch,” Mullis said. “The most exciting moment was when I’d finish a template, and they’d take them out to the floor, and soon you’d hear ‘whir-chunk. Whirchunk’ — the sound of parts coming off the line using my templates.”

Mullis married Johnson while he was home on leave in 1943, and by the time the war ended, she was repairing damaged planes coming back from combat theaters.

After the war In the fall of 1945, Johnson returned home, and Mullis said she and the Rosies were eager to Ruth’s story REUNITING ROSIES other move on with life.

Mullis was born in 1923 “We did our part as best we in Michigan, and in the early could,” Mullis said. “We all years of the Great Depression, Are you a Rosie, or do you her father’s slew of respiratory know one who might like to walked out those doors and went back to being women. We diseases sent the family south meet Ruth Mullis? Reach in search of warmer weather. out to Mullis at enerbun2@ were thinking of starting lives with our husbands, of having juno.com. Or reach out to Mullis, her parents and two children.”

Jo Ann Fisher, the head of brothers wound up living in A tumor, however, left Multhe Colorado chapter of the woods outside Orlando, lis unable to have children, the American Rosie the Florida, where they slept on though she flourished as a Riveter Association, at planks laid through the winjandm.premier@gmail.com draftsman, building on the dows of their Model A Ford to skills she learned at Convair. or 303-668-8568. keep them off the ground.

She went to work in an engi“I don’t like to talk about neering firm, designing roofs for churches, that time much,” Mullis said. “We ate what we gymnasiums and other large structures. could. We trapped rabbits. I was anemic.”

“I would design these complex roofs, then Eventually they moved in with relatives I would take them over to an engineer who in Miami, and life steadied. In high school, would sign his name on them,” Mullis said.

Mullis met Ted Johnson, the man she would Mullis and Johnson retired to a cabin above marry.

Deckers in Colorado in 1973. Johnson died in Mullis graduated from high school in June 2003, and Mullis stayed alone in the cabin for 1941, and wanted to go to nursing school, several years after. but her family couldn’t afford to send her.

In 2006, Mullis met Leonard Mullis, a World She was running a dry cleaners that winter War II veteran and former head librarian at when America entered the war after the Pearl Arapahoe Community College, on Match.

Harbor attack. com. They became one of the oldest couples Johnson joined the Navy, Mullis said, and gave away most of his belongings, expecting to to ever connect on the dating site. The couple married and moved into Leonard’s home in die in combat.

Littleton.

Mullis said she, like many other young Mullis has enjoyed meeting other Rosies at women, was eager to do her part to win the the ARRA conventions, but says they’re fading war. But her first application to work in a fast.

Convair aircraft plant was rejected for lack of “There were 50 or 60 of us at the 2017 conexperience. vention,” Mullis said. “By last year, it was down Mullis went to work in the factory cafeteria and enrolled in riveting classes in night school. to 28. That’s how fast we’re dying off.”

Though she showed little aptitude for riveting, she excelled at technical drawing and was soon Finding Rosies put to work designing templates for aircraft Many women who lived through World War

JULY10 2019

FREE!

DON CHICHARRÓN @ Clyfford Still Museum

JULY192019

A photo of Ruth Mullis operating a countersink machine at an aircraft plant in Florida in World War II. Mullis took riveting classes at night, and began designing templates for aircraft wing parts during the war. After the war, she continued to work as a draftsman.

ROY BOOK BINDER JULY202019

COURTESY PHOTO

II may not even realize they were Rosies, said Jo Ann Fisher, president of ARRA’s Colorado chapter and a daughter of a Rosie herself.

“A woman saw my Rosie shirt, and said, ‘All I did was take over driving the tractor on the farm when my brother went off to war,’” Fisher said. “I told her: ‘You’re a Rosie!’“ The ARRA counts any woman who supported the home effort as a Rosie, Fisher said, whether that was in manufacturing, seamstressing, farming or growing a Victory Garden.

It’s taken decades for Rosies to appreciate the part they played in breaking down gender roles, Fisher said.

“They’ll say they went to work to bring the men home so they could get married and have babies,” Fisher said. “And we say, ‘no, you broke it all open for women!’”

Fisher said she’d love to help Mullis meet other Rosies.

“It’s been hard to get meetings going in Colorado,” Fisher said. “We’ve been trying, but I’ve kind of given up. People are so spread out, and the women are all at least in their 90s now.”

Mullis said she doesn’t know how much time she has left, but she hopes she can spend some of it in the company of some of the bold, strong women who answered their country’s call.

“Let’s get together,” she said, “before there’s no one left who remembers.”

JOHN FULLBRIGHT W/ SETH WALKER

JULY202019

JON CLEARY

& THE ABSOLUTE MONSTER GENTLEMEN

JULY272019

RODRIGO Y GABRIELA

@ Denver Botanic Gardens

Chatfield Farms

JULY282019

22 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

Colorado Renaissance Festival promises magical season Eight-week event returns to Larkspur for its 43rd summer Staff report

The knight-jousting tournament is one of the Colorado Renaissance Festival’s most popular entertainment events. But jugglers, magicians and acrobats also offer fun spectacles at the 30-acre village in Larkspur, home of the festival’s 43rd season, about 30 minutes south of Denver.

COURTESY PHOTO

Whether OLD or NEW We can fix it! or

The eight-week Colorado Renaissance Festival kicks off its 43rd summer on Saturday, June 15, with a treasure trove of magic, artisans and entertainment in Larkspur, 30 minutes south of Denver and just north of Colorado Springs.

The event, which averages about 200,000 patrons each year, is set in a 30-acre village

with 10 stages of non-stop entertainment, including jugglers, acrobatics, a village hypnotist and more. There is dancing and singing with musicians and plenty of opportunities to cheer for your favorite knight in the tournament joust.

The festival also offers a marketplace of more than 200 artisans, crafters, and vendors selling unique, handcrafted items. You can watch pottery throwing, glass blowing, leather-making and more. Food includes smoked turkey legs, marinated steak-on-astick, roasted chicken, stews, desserts, ale and wine.

For more information or to order tickets, call 303-688-6010 or visit www.ColoradoRenaissance.com.

Book honors Belmar Park creation Staff report

Lic # 236628

We can install it!

Specializing in hot water, steam and radiant heating

303-918-9171 squareamechanical.com

A new book released by area journalist and former Life on Capitol Hill publisher Stuart MacPhail highlights the “David vs. Goliath” struggle that Lakewood citizens endured and won to save a large portion of the former May Bonfils Estate to become Belmar Park.

The book, written by MacPhail, features a preface by former Lakewood Sentinel editor Dick Hilker.

Entitled “The True Story of How Belmar Park Came into Existence,” the book

documents the efforts by scores of everyday Lakewood citizens to override the wishes of most of the early Lakewood elected leaders and administrative staff.

Most information about Belmar Park published by the City of Lakewood says, “The City of Lakewood acquired the land in 1973 and established Belmar Park.” But, as the new book illustrates, 1973 was near the end of the story. MacPhail contends that if it had not been for persistent, aggressive citizen activism, against huge odds ... Belmar would not be a park today.”

The 44-page book chronicles the”influencers” who controlled much of east Jeffco’s 1960s and 1970s destiny. As Lakewood was born in 1969, its key leaders saw the 200-plus-acre Bonfils Estate at the center of the new city as a source of future tax revenues. Many Lakewood citizens saw the site as potential natural open space and a park for citizens to enjoy for years to come. That divergence in values led to a multi-year fight that culminated in a citizen-initiated public vote. At the polls, the citizens won by better than 2-to-1.

LIFE ON CAPITOL HILL

SERVICE DIRECTORY FARM & AGRICULTURE

Farm Products & Produce

SERVICES

Handyman Handyman Service Tile, Plumbing, Finish Projects Miscellaneous Repairs Small Jobs OK 303-345-4046

ILL SERVICE DIRECTORY Electricians

Grain Finished Buffalo quartered, halves and whole

719-771-8742

B&W Electric, LLC

nn, at 303–261-2577 or any questions. you LicensedThank and Insured.

Wanted to Buy

Capitol Hill ad HANDYMAN

WANT TO PURCHASE Minerals and other oil/gas interests.

Send details to: P.O. Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201.

mercial & Residential Inc.

ur job done right, me, the first time

ars construction experice including historical dings, windows, doors, en & bath remodeling, tions, welding, overall rs. Apartment maintee & management, conion consulting. Insured Klaus Schuermann

Residential or Commercial Ask about our Senior Citizen and/or MASSAGE Veteran discounts.

Call (720) 925-1241

Painting

PAINTING

MASSAGE QWEST

Denver’s BEST Mobile Massage Therapy Flooring Unbeatable massage rates

$45 for 45 minutes • $55 for 1 hour $90 for 90RUTHERFORD minutes CONSTRUCTION www.massageqwest.com Refinish, 303-949-6003 install, repair, all phases of your flooring. Owner operated. Start to finish bathroom & kitchen remodeling.

Property repair

MOVING

CALL: 720-434-8922

OR VISIT US ONLINE AT WWW.RUTHERFORDCONSTRUCTION.BIZ

Plumbing

Windows

VAIL Plumbing & Heating

Make Your Original Windows Work

1064 Clayton St.

OLDER HOME SPECIALIST Service, Repair, Remodeling, Older Home Specialist, Apartments, Evaporative Coolers Licensed/Insured/Guaranteed

303/329-6042

Sprinklers

Sprinkler Solutions • Complete ExteriorPaint Paint• • • CompleteInterior Interior and and Exterior

Professional Installations & Repairs Sod Installations

Quality

by Trusted Craftsmen Quality WorkWork

by Trusted Craftsmen Since 1995 Since 1995 CALL 303-512-8777 www.irelandsfi nestinc.com CALL 303-512-8777 www.irelandsfinestinc.com

SAVE MONEY AND WATER

PLUMBING

www.sprinklersolutionscolorado.com

Please Recycle this Publication when Finished

VAIL Plumbing & Heating

Specializing in Window Solutions Denver Historic Neighborhoods Since 1990 Glass Repair • Glazing Sash Cords & Weights Open Shut Windows • Screens Custom Wood Storm Windows

GLACIER GLASS & WINDOW 303-722-5952 GLACIERGLASS.BIZ

Double hung window RESTORATION includes replacing sash cords, removal of excess paint on wood and metal, plus lubrication. Also restore metal casement windows.

David 720-550-2786.

Fast, friendly service Lifetime Warranty!

All Work Guaranteed!

303-523-5859

SERVICE DIRECTORY ADVERTISING 1064 Clayton St. CALLHOME 303-566-4091 OLDER SPECIALIST Service, Repair, Remodeling, Older Home OR EMAIL KEARHART@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM Specialist; Apartments, Hot Water Heat.

Please Recycle this Publication

Life On Capitol Hill 23

July 2019

New festival is ready to launch in Cherry Creek Anthony Constantino ran a festival in Castle Pines earlier this year.

The event will be similar to a new festival, Smash in the Square, which will be held in Cherry Creek in early August.

By Brynn Svenningsen Special to Colorado Community Media

Smash in the Square event director Anthony Constantino believes the inaugural weekend of his new art festival in Cherry Creek is a comeback.

Constantino describes the festival as an open-air art exhibition, featuring top-tier art set to live violin music. Smash in the Square was initially planned for last summer, but was canceled because of issues surrounding the permit. This year, Constantino has been busy relaunching the festival in hopes the event will benefit artists while connecting the Cherry Creek community. The festival will be held on St. Paul Street between 2nd and 3rd avenues on the weekend of Aug. 3-4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“It’s a world-class nationally recognized hotspot for high-end art and culture,” Constantino said on his choice to hold the festival in Cherry Creek. “There are a lot of art enthusiasts, art lovers and art collectors in that area.”

The festival will showcase painting, photography, mixed media and jewelry. Festival-goers can expect art by nationally known artists and local Colorado artists.

“These shows are really about focusing on the artist and giving them the best opportunity for promotion,” Constantino said. “They are really the ones who help drive our art cultural development in our communities.”

This past spring, Constantino held a festival at The Village in Castle Pines in Douglas County. Additionally, he has worked to combine philanthropy and art at his festivals and silent auctions in the past.

COURTESY PHOTO

While last year’s festival was planned for South Jackson Street, a mainly residential street in Cherry Creek, it has been moved to the mixed-use St. Paul Street. The new location has allowed Constantino to reach out to local businesses in hopes that the Smash festival will bring them additional foot traffic.

“I have been reaching out to all the businesses, and I have gotten a lot of people’s support,” Constantino said. “Everyone is really excited about it and thinks it will be a great and positive event for the area.”

According to Jill Lis of the City and County of Denver’s Department of Special Events, last year’s festival revealed a gap in the city’s permitting process. While Constantino had all the requirements to meet the permit, the event’s proposed location on South Jackson Street did not meet the needs of some residents. The city has since worked to change the way permits work for events on residential blocks, so

Argonaut Has It!

neighbors and event planners feel represented in the planning process.

“If someone else came to the table and wanted to have an event in a similar space they would not be allowed unless they got 75% written support by the local residents,” Lis said of the new process. “What we encourage with all events, whether it’s just in a park or they require a street closure, is that they go through this notification process where they actively reach out to the residents and businesses directly …Just to proactively engage them and inform them of what is coming.”

Despite the challenges that have occurred, those involved in the festival and in the neighborhood, are gearing up for the exciting new event. Beyond the celebration of art and those who create it, Constantino is hopeful that the festival will also connect and celebrate the local community.

KDCM Construction Management Managing Design & Construction for Owners

• Legal basement units for additional income • Home remodeling, carriage houses and garages • New home Construction • Mechanical system upgrades KDCM puts you in control of your home construction project, from design development through bids and construction

www.KeystoneDCM.com 303-854-8591 info@keystoneDCM.com

Family Owned for Over 50 Years

Denver’s Largest Selection of Cold Beer.

Over 15,000 Items to chose from 40,000 Sq. Feet of Fun We Deliver!

760 East Colfax • 303-831-7788 Mon-thur 8 am - 11 pm • fri & sat 8 am - 11:45 pm • sunday 8 am - 10 pm

SHOP ONLINE AT WWW.ARGONAUTLIQUOR.COM

Follow Us

24 Life On Capitol Hill

July 2019

7th annual

CHEESMAN PARK ART FEST

July 27 & 28

SATURDAY 7/27 9AM—6PM | SUNDAY 7/28 9AM—5PM AT CHEESMAN PARK, 8 T H AVENUE & N. WILLIAMS, DENVER

art & craft | live music | food trucks 150 artisans will sell: Pottery Paintings Jewelry Photography Glass art Sculpture Metalwork Fiber art Woodwork & more!

Intimate performances by: Tony Dollar The Delta Sonics Gumbo Le Funque Oscar Butler Linda Styles Gregory Goodloe Laurie Dameron Tyler Stanfield

Denver’s top mobile eats: Hey PB&J Meatball Em’s Ice Cream Crock Spot California Wrap Runner Freddy’s Cuisine Shuck Brothers Top Dawg Sausages Rocky Mountain Slices

This colorful outdoor show was ranked among the top 100 art festivals in America by Sunshine Artist Magazine in 2018.

w w w. D A S H E V E N T S . C O M | F R E E A D M I S S I O N !