Washington Park Profile 0220

FEBRUARY 2020

Digital and print community newspaper founded in 1978.

FREE

COLORADO’S QUALITY OF LIFE Lawmakers discuss issues of focus for 2020 legislative session

P12

A 1970s TIME MACHINE

Swallow Hill music instructor buys iconic Silver Streak motorhome

P5

ISRAEL AT THE FRONT AND CENTER P8

Denver Jewish Film Festival features Israeli-andJewish cinema from around the world

THE FUTURE OF ROSEDALE Conversations begin on fate of shuttered elementary school

P6

EXPANDING MINDS AND LIVES Libraries offer more innovation, culture than ever before

P14

2 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Business Matters

By Christy Steadman | csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Need affordable event space in 2020 for your special events, board meetings, speakers, fundraisers, theater performances, or any other fun, festive, educational events?

While also supporting a local NPO?!

Historic Grant Avenue is just the place!

Please contact: Helen O at: Historicgrantave.org or call: 303-733-8940 for more info and site tour!

Business Matters is a monthly column on the changing landscape of business and development in south 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 Christy Steadman at csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com.

DEVELOPMENT Bonnie Brae Tavern A redevelopment project is proposed for the buildings at 740 and 750 S. University Blvd. in the Bonnie Brae neighborhood.

The buildings currently host the Bonnie Brae Tavern, a dry cleaner and Wish Gifts.

All would be demolished for the project.

A man named Joe Jundt is under contract for the purchase of the properties, and BusinessDen reported that an early-stage development proposal was submitted to the city in late December.

According to BusinessDen, the project’s concept includes three stories — about 16,500 square feet of retail or restaurant space on the ground level, condominiums on the top two floors and one level of belowground parking.

BUSINESS OPENINGS

216 South Grant Street For information call: 303-733-8940 www.HistoricGrantAve.org

Magnolia Cajun Dining A new Cajun food restaurant at 1446 South

Remarkable Commitment!

“I will sell your home in one day for full price!”

Actually, I can’t promise that but I’ll give you 100% dedication until it’s sold.

Because if I were selling my home, that’s what I would want.

Cherie Wahl CRS, Broker Associate Previews and 5 Star Agent A Truly Remarkable Realtor!

303-507-5455

Broadway opened in late November.

Magnolia Cajun Dining is the first restaurant for Chef Eric McDaniel and his Katie O’Loughlin, though McDaniel ran a catering company in Louisiana where he grew up.

The menu consists of contemporary Cajun dishes such as gumbos and po’ boy sandwiches, for example. Ingredients come from both the Rocky Mountain and Gulf Coast regions, including Louisiana-sourced seafood and house-made sausage. The restaurant features a bar serving specialty cocktails, wine and local beer.

Magnolia Cajun Dining is located in a Victorian house, which has been home to many restaurants through the years.

Fine Papers, which is based in Tennessee, filed for bankruptcy in January, according to BusinessDen. Papyrus is a chain store based in California that sells greeting cards and stationery.

According to BusinessDen, its four Denver locations are closing — Cherry Creek Shopping Center, Denver Pavilions along the 16th Street Mall, Park Meadows and Flatiron Crossing.

According to the New York Times, Schurman operates 254 stores — Papyrus, American Greetings and Carlton Card chains. “All three store chains will close, but the branded cards they sell will still be available at other retailers,” the New York Times stated.

Central One Central One, a fine-dining Greek restaurant, reopened on Dec. 2 after having been closed since August 2018 because of a small kitchen fire, according to 9news.

The restaurant originally opened in 1998. It is located at 300 S. Pearl St. Central One is one of five family-owned, Denver-based Pete’s Restaurants. Pete Contos was a local restauranteur who died in May at age 85. His family is now running the restaurants.

A sixth restaurant, Pete’s Gyros Place, 2819 E. Colfax Ave., closed in late December for renovations and repairs on the building, but there is no timeline for those repairs to be done.

Hallmark Two Denver-area Hallmark stores are closing, according to BusinessDen. First up was Hallmark’s HMK store in Cherry Creek, 2940 E. 2nd Ave. It closed on Jan. 27, BusinessDen reported. The second will be Stacy’s Hallmark Shop, 2730 S. Colorado Blvd., which is slated to close at the end of March, BusinessDen reported.

CLOSINGS Tavern Platt Park Tavern Platt Park, 1475 S. Pearl St., closed in December following the Tavern Hospitality Group’s sale of the building.

According to the Westword, Tavern Hospitality Group closed Tavern Platt Park to focus on the other Tavern locations that are more successful. These locations include Uptown, Lowry, Tech Center, Littleton and Mile High.

Hanson’s Grill & Tavern A sign on the door in late December marked the closing of Hanson’s Grill & Tavern, 1301 S. Pearl St., according to BusinessDen. The restaurant was founded in 2001, but the building had been home to various restaurant establishments prior to Hanson’s Grill & Tavern.

Papyrus Papyrus’ Denver locations are expected to close after its parent company, Schurman

CHANGES Handoff After less than a year of its launch, a Denver-based startup company called Handoff is looking to expand its business to New York, Texas and California in 2020, according to BusinessDen. Founded by Tommy Riley and brothers Miles and Caden MacKenzie, Handoff is an alcohol ordering-and-delivery service that allows users order beer, wine and liquor through a mobile app or by asking Alexa or Google Home, states BusinessDen. Handoff got its start in April through a partnership with Bonnie Brae Liquor, 785 S. University Blvd. It launched in Boulder in October and is expected to expand to Fort Collins, Colorado Springs and other Front Range cities this year, BusinessDen reported.

Declaration Brewing Declaration Brewing in Overland has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, according to BusinessDen. “Companies use Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection to reorganize and help keep the business alive, paying creditors over time,” states BusinessDen. Declaration Brewing operates a taproom 2030 S. Cherokee St. that boasts 40 taps, and distributes its craft beer.

One-woman show celebrates women’s suffrage Staff report In honor of the centennial of women’s suffrage in 2020, Lucy Stone will travel to Denver to tell the story of when she, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony visited Denver in 1877 to campaign for women’s right to vote.

The History at Play presentation “I Now Pronounce You Lucy Stone” features Judith Kalaora as Lucy Stone, the first woman from Massachusetts to earn a college degree, an

abolitionist and a women’s rights activist.

Kalaora is the founder and artistic director at History at Play, which presents one-woman living history performances chronicling the lives of legendary women who changed society.

“I Now Pronounce You Lucy Stone” will be presented at 4 p.m. Feb. 22 at the Secular Hub, 3100 Downing St., Denver. The show lasts about 60 minutes and will be followed by a Q&A session. Tickets and more information are available at www.secularhub.org.

Washington Park Profile 3

February 2020

Mothers’ Milk Bank to open Baby Café in February Staff report Pregnant and new mothers can learn about breastfeeding in a friendly and comfortable environment at the Mothers’ Milk Bank Baby Café, which will open Feb. 5 at the Jewish Community Center. The cafe will be launched with a party from 10 a.m. to noon.

In the Baby Café, mothers can drop in to relax, share tips and techniques, and socialize with other moms. One-on-one help professional lactation support is provided for no charge by certified lactation specialists, and babies are weighed before and after feeding.

“Mothers’ Milk Bank Baby Café at the Jewish Community Center will offer a space where parents can come and get free breastfeeding guidance and support from a lactation specialist,” Abby Malman Case, international board-certified lactation consultant and manager of donor relations at Mothers’ Milk Bank, said in a news release. “Lactation support can often be very expensive, and we want to help all parents meet their breastfeeding goals.”

The grand opening is open to the public and will offer refreshments, music for the infants, and a raffle.

The special event coincides with the week of Tu Bishvat. In the Jewish tradition, Tu Bishvat is the “new year of the trees” and it is customary to plant trees in celebration of this holiday. In the spirit of Tu Bishvat, the Jewish community will plant a tree and planting seeds will be available for guests to take home.

After Feb. 5, Baby Café at Jewish Community Center will be open from 10 a.m. to noon Wednesdays at 350 S. Dahlia St. in Denver. Everything will be free including the weight checks for babies.

Mothers and babies gather at the Mothers’ Milk Bank Baby Café in Arvada last summer. Another location will open Feb. 5 at the Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St. in Denver.

CASEY VAN DIVIER

CARE CAN DO THINGS A P R E S C R I P T I O N C A N ’ T. Caroline Fraser | Registered Nurse

Find care at centura.org

Your closest Centura Health facility is Porter Adventist Hospital Centura Health does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age, sex, religion, creed, ancestry, sexual orientation, and marital status in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and

activities, or in employment. For further information about this policy contact Centura Health’s Office of the General Counsel at 1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711). Copyright © Centura Health, 2019. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711). CHÚ Ý: Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn. Gọi số 1-303-673-8166 (TTY: 711).

4 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

New venue for burgers, craft beer coming

Denver Beer Co. expects to open location this summer Patrick Crawford, left, and Charlie Berger, co-owners of Denver Beer Co., are looking to open their newest taproom in Washington Park, 2425 S. Downing St., this summer.

COURTESY PHOTO

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

B Washington Park’s Primary Care Clinic for over 30 years Services offered: • General Primary Care

• Management of Chronic Diseases

• Acute Injury and Illness Treatment

• Immigration Medical Services

• Medical Weight Loss

• Botox and Kybella Cosmetic Services

• Hormone Replacement Treatment

• X-Ray and Lab Services

• Physicals and Pap Smears

• Addiction Medicine Services

South Logan Family Medicine A Division of MedNOW Clinics, Inc.

895 S Logan St, Denver 80209

(303) 733-3764 MedNowClinics.com

Affiliate websites: StopAtTwo.com & ARCHDetox.com

Dr. McBrearty

MD - University of Alabama School of Medicine – 2011

eer and burgers simply go well together.

That was the idea when Patrick Crawford and Charlie Berger, coowners of the Denver Beer Co., joined up with Brendan McManus and James Samara and their The Mighty Burger concept about three years ago in Arvada.

Now, the two teams of business partners are bringing their brewery and burger joint to Washington Park.

“We hope this new taproom will become a community gathering place and hub for the surrounding south Denver neighborhoods,” Crawford said in a news release.

Denver Beer Co. is aiming to host a grand opening at its new location in Washington Park, 2425 S. Downing St., this summer.

The property purchase, which Denver Beer Co. announced in January, includes two buildings and about 10,000 square feet of patio and lawn spaces. The vision is to create a gathering spot that is family-friendly, as well as a place to hang out with friends and/ or meet new people. Crawford and Berger intend on featuring an outdoor tiki bar, fire pits, yard games and communal beer garden tables.

“We’re all about fun,” Berger said, adding the new taproom will be a place where people can get together and “talk about what’s happening in their neighborhood.”

Berger and Crawford opened their first Denver Beer Co. brewery and taproom in Denver’s Highland in 2007. That was followed with Denver Beer Co.’s production brewery called Canworks in Sunnyside, then Olde Town Arvada’s Denver Beer Co. in 2017.

“This is our opportunity to bring our beer a little farther south,” Berger said of the Washington Park location.

Berger added that he lives near the recently purchased property in Washington Park, and “stumbled upon” the opportunity to establish a Denver Beer Co. taproom there after the

restaurant that was formerly operating there — Maddie’s Restaurant — had closed.

Craft beer available at Denver Beer Co.’s new taproom will include the brewery’s flagship brews — Princess Yum Yum Raspberry Kolsch and Incredible Pedal IPA, for example — rotating seasonals and additional beers exclusive to the Washington Park location.

Berger and Crawford expect the head brewers at each of their locations to collaborate and share recipes, the news release states.

Denver Beer Co. plans on offering two eatery options at the new location. The Mighty Burger will share the larger building, which is 2,563 square feet, with the brewery’s taproom; and another restaurant partner for the smaller building, which is 761 square-feet, is to be determined.

McManus and Samara began their partnership with Berger and Crawford when Denver Beer Co. opened its Arvada taproom. There, the Mighty Burger operates out of a vintage airstream food truck that’s permanently parked at the brewery.

McManus and Samara own four restaurant concepts — The Mighty Burger in Arvada; Lucky Pie pizza which has three locations, including one in Lodo; El Jefe Mexican food in Sunnyside; and OK Poke inside Zeppelin Station in RiNo. But the two restaurateurs decided to bring The Mighty Burger to Washington Park’s Denver Beer Co. because it’s “a natural fit,” McManus said.

“People love the burger and it pairs well with the craft beer,” he said.

However, the menu at the Washington Park location will be expanded to include additional sandwiches and salads, McManus said. The Mighty Burger will have a much larger space than in Arvada, McManus said, in addition to the location already having a functional commercial kitchen inside the building.

“You can’t go wrong with a burger and a beer,” McManus said. But the “variety (of the expanded menu) is also going to please the guests.”

Berger expects the Denver Beer Co. taproom in Washington Park to be a spectacular beer garden, food venue and hangout/gathering spot, he said.

“Beer is a natural beverage for bringing people together,” Berger said. “This (Denver Beer Co. taproom) will bring even more life to an already wonderful location.”

Washington Park Profile 5

February 2020

Silver Streak gets a new home 1970’s motorhome sold to Swallow Hill Music instructor

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

T

he first time that April Cooley and her husband Cal stepped inside Swallow Hill Music’s iconic Silver Streak, it was like going back in time for them.

“Everything on the inside reminded us of home,” April Cooley said of the 1970’s decor. “We went right back to the eighth grade.”

Cal and April Cooley are the proud new owners of the 30-footlong and eight-foot-wide 1976 motorhome that served Swallow Hill as a billboard of sorts, parked on the edge of the parking lot where everyone driving along Yale could see it.

“The engineer in me loves that it’s still altogether and original,” Cal Cooley said, “and the artist in me loves its funkiness.”

And funky it is. The interior’s color scheme is classic `70s — brown, bright orange and some yellow with faux wood paneling and gold fleck countertops. Furnishings include a couch that pulls out into a double-sized bed; two separate twin beds; two swivel chairs; shelving and closets; a refrigerator, freezer, stove and microwave in the kitchen; and shower, sink and toilet in the bathroom. It’s even got dishes and silverware leftover from the `70s and a crushed-velvet orange bedspread with tassels.

“The whole thing’s aluminum,” said Jim McGowan, Swallow Hill’s facilities technician, of the exterior.

And “the motor sounds like being at the drag strip on a Saturday night in the 1970s.”

Swallow Hill employees wave farewell to their beloved Silver Streak. It was purchased by Cal and April Cooley, who plan on keeping the 1976 motorhome in its original condition.

The interior of the 1976 Silver Streak motorhome is classic ‘70’s — brown, bright orange and some yellow with faux wood paneling and gold fleck countertops.

It even came complete with dishes and silverware manufactured in the ‘70s and a crushed-velvet orange bedspread with tassels.

Cal and April Cooley are the proud new owners of Swallow Hill Music’s 1976 Silver Streak. At 30 feet long and eight feet wide, the motorhome served Swallow Hill as a billboard, parked on the edge of the parking lot along Yale Avenue.

COURTESY PHOTOS The Silver Streak, McGowan said, is like a drivable time capsule.

“It’s been an interesting journey with the Silver Streak,” said Jessy Clark, Swallow Hill’s chief operating officer.

The Silver Streak was donated to Swallow Hill in 2014 for the organization’s use as a mobile outreach vehicle, Clark said. It was used as such a “handful of times,” Clark said, but it was so big that most everyone was intimidated to drive it. So, it became primarily stationary at Swallow Hill, 71 E. Yale Ave., with the exception of making an occasional appearance at a farmers’ market or trade show, Clark said.

Eventually talks began about selling it, Clark said.

“It’s better for it to be in the

hands of someone who will use it,” McGowan said. “And it’s an extra bonus that it’s staying in the Swallow Hill family.”

April Cooley has been teaching fiddle/violin at Swallow Hill for about five years. As soon as she saw the for-sale sign go up, she went straight to Clark and inquired about purchasing it, she said.

“We’ve always been ‘go-places’ type of people,” April Cooley said of she and her husband, and “Cal always thought it was just the coolest vehicle.”

Silver Streaks were manufactured from 1945-1997, Cal Cooley said.

However, Cooley added, very few of them were the drivable motorhomes — most were tow trailer campers. McGowan added that his research on two different vintage

RV forums about Silver Streaks revealed that less than 20 of the drivable motorhomes were manufactured, and for only one year in 1976. “And they never made them again,” McGowan said.

“The thing was destined for a particular owner,” McGowan said, “somebody who wanted a period piece and would love it.”

The Cooleys purchased the Silver Streak for $5,000, and the money will go toward Swallow Hill’s operations and programs, Clark said. Swallow Hill is a 40-year-old nonprofit organization that offers music instruction and puts on community concerts throughout Denver-metro.

The Silver Streak’s “first drive on the highway was a little nervewracking,” April Cooley said, “but it

did just fine.”

It is currently undergoing a thorough mechanical, systematic and operational “go-over” in Loveland. While the Cooleys plan on investing in its operable condition, they will keep as much as possible original, they said.

And they do plan on using the Silver Streak for several longdistance trips. First up will likely be Utah, the Cooleys said, and they even joked about a possible trip to Alaska.

Cal Cooley said he hopes it brings a lot of smiles to peoples’ faces once they start taking it out and about.

“We’re really excited about it,” April Cooley added. “And we’ll be sending pictures and updates about where The Streak is going.”

IT’S THE “NEW YEAR, NEW LOOK” SALE It’s 2020 and time to give your favorite furniture a new look. Receive 20% off refinishing projects and 20% off of our showroom fabrics when you present this ad.

-

Call to schedule a free in-home estimate today – the sale ends 2/29/2020.

Refinishing • Repair • Reupholstery Ad must be presented at the time of order. Offer expires February 29, 2020.

2400 West Belleview Ave, Littleton, CO | 303-798-3220 | ackermans.com

6 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Talks begin on the future of shuttered

Rosedale school

Neighbors advocate for it to re-open as a public school

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

B

eing a neighbor of the school for about 25 years, Pam Pritzel remembers when Rosedale Elementary was lively with students.

“Schools add to the vitality of neighborhoods,” Pritzel said. “Denver Public Schools needs to be good stewards of that property.”

Pritzel, among others, believes there is enough community support for the district to re-open Rosedale as a public school.

“This neighborhood is teeming with young families,” she said, adding schools are a deciding factor for people when choosing the neighborhood where they will purchase a home and raise a family. “A school is ideal for that property.”

Rosedale Elementary, 2330 S. Sherman St. in Denver, closed in 2005. But now the empty school is the center of attention for many of its neighbors.

Denver Public Schools, which owns the Rosedale property, received a letter of interest from the Archdiocese of Denver. The Archdiocese proposes to renovate the building and reopen it as a private high school that would accommodate about 400 students.

No decisions on the fate of the Rosedale school have been made yet, said Mark Ferrandino, the school district’s deputy superintendent of operations. Particularly because the district wants to include the neighborhood in those discussions, he added.

“There’s a broad spectrum of what the district can do” with Rosedale, Ferrandino said.

“The community surrounding that site needs to be a part of those conversations.”

Options include reopening it as a public school, leasing the property, leaving the property in the current state or selling it.

But there are some considerations that need to be taken into account. Ferrandino estimates it would cost between $12-$15 million in renovations to get the school up to par to host students again. This includes electrical work, fire safety, installing an HVAC system, ADA, etc.

“It needs a lot of updating,” Ferrandino said. “The codes have changed a lot in 15 years.”

If a sale were to occur, the Denver Public SEE ROSEDALE, P7

Advocates for re-opening the school as a public school for neighborhood children, Daniel McAllister, left, and his father Ray McAllister, look up some facts about Rosedale Elementary in a history book that Ray McAllister co-authored.

“It’s too nice of a building to just fall apart.”

Daniel McAllister, advocate to re-open Rosedale as a public school

Boarded-up windows indicate signs of break-ins at the shuttered Rosedale Elementary, 2330 S. Sherman St. in Denver. Some people advocating for the school to re-open believe the school may also be a victim of looting.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

Washington Park Profile 7

February 2020

Community meetings on Rosedale “It needs a lot of updating. The codes have changed a lot in 15 years.”

Mark Ferrandino, deputy superintendent of operations

Denver Public Schools is hosting two meetings concerning the future use of Rosedale Elementary, 2330 S. Sherman St. Both meetings take place from 6-8 p.m. in the South High School cafeteria, 1700 E. Louisiana Ave. The first meeting is on Feb. 13 and the second is on Feb. 27.

All community members are welcome. Attendees will have an opportunity to share their thoughts about the future of the site.

For more information, call 720-423-3200.

The halls of Rosedale Elementary, 2330 S. Sherman St. in Denver, have been empty since 2005. Some neighbors of the school are advocating for it to re-open as a public school to serve the neighborhood’s children.

COURTESY OF FACEBOOK GROUP DPS REOPEN ROSEDALE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Rosedale FROM PAGE 6

Schools Board of Education would be the final decision-maker. Additionally, a potential sale would not be limited to the Archdiocese of Denver, Ferrandino said. The district would issue a Request For Proposals, and within that, there would be guidelines set forth by the community.

Then the proposals would be subject to a committee review process.

These initial conversations are not whether to sell it or not, Ferrandino said. “It’s a conversation about the future of Rosedale.”

When Rosedale Elementary school closed, enrollment was low — it had only 134 students enrolled its final year. The school’s capacity is about 300 students.

Chalkbeat, a nonprofit news organization that covers education, reported in January that another reason for the closure was to save money.

Neighborhood students now attend Asbury Elementary, 1320 E. Asbury Ave., which is within Rosedale’s boundaries and is about a mile away.

Parents may also choose to send their children to McKinley-Thatcher Elementary, 1230 S. Grant St., about two miles away from the Rosedale school.

Two elementary schools in the Englewood Schools district are also less than two miles away.

As for capacity in the nearby Denver Public Schools, Rosedale is not needed to accommodate students, Ferrandino said. However, projected enrollment will be included in the conversations about Rosedale, he added.

Daniel McAllister, an advocate for re-opening Rosedale as a public school, argues that neigh-

borhood schools are important for the families in the community. A commute on foot from the Rosedale school to Asbury is too far for elementary-school aged children to do on their own, McAllister said. Especially so because the children would have to cross two busy streets — East Iliff Avenue and West Evans Avenue.

Therefore, school children in Rosedale either have to be bussed to a school outside of their neighborhood or their parents have to drive them, McAllister said. And that’s in addition to many of the parents having their own commute to their workplace every day.

Those aren’t the only reasons a local school is valued in a neighborhood, McAllister said. “A neighborhood school gives the students an opportunity to go to a school they’re proud of.”

Along with getting Rosedale re-opened as a public school, McAllister would like to see the building get historic landmark status. Rosedale Elementary opened in 1924 and served kindergarten through fifth-grade students. It is 41,000 square-feet and two stories. Its architecture is Victorian Gothic style. There are also rumors that a time capsule is buried under one of the stone planters in the front of the school, McAllister said.

“It’s too nice of a building to just fall apart,” McAllister said.

McAllister, a Denver Public Schools graduate himself who is currently an educator at Skinner Middle School in northwest Denver’s Berkeley neighborhood, developed a fondness for Rosedale Elementary through his father. Ray McAllister served Denver Public Schools as a maintenance worker for 35 years before retiring in 2001.

Rosedale’s situation is sad, Ray McAllister said.

Anytime “a school closes,” he added, “it takes something out of the community.”

Rosedale Elementary, 2330 S. Sherman St. in Denver, was built in 1924 and served kindergarten through fifth-grade students until it closed in 2005.

CHRISTY STEADMAN

8 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Putting Israel in the ‘front and center’ of discussion Denver Jewish Film Festival takes place Feb. 5-19

IF YOU GO...

By Bruce Goldberg Special to Colorado Community Media

So what’s it like to boss around Billy Crystal on a movie set?

Matt Ratner chuckled at the question, then thanked Crystal, who’s starring in Ratner’s film director debut, “Standing Up, Falling Down.”

“The thing that was amazing working with Billy is he’s such a talented actor who cares so deeply about getting it right,” Ratner said. “To work with people who are committed to telling the story is just a dream. From our first meeting, he had always been that way.”

In the film, Crystal plays Marty, a dermatologist and “charming barfly with a penchant for karaoke.” He becomes friends with failed stand-up comedian Scott, played by Ben Schwartz of “Parks and Recreation.” They form a friendship as they try to muddle through life.

“It’s a film that will have you laughing uproariously, but there are real moments of humanity,” Ratner said.

The Denver premiere of “Standing Up, Falling Down” shows at 9:15 p.m. Feb. 8. It is one of 43 films that are part of the 24th annual JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center’s Denver Jewish Film Festival.

Ratner will attend the showing of “Standing Up, Falling Down” and will be answering audience questions afterwards.

“They’re always incredibly rewarding,” Ratner said of showings, seeing “people respond to the humor and pathos in the movie.”

Ben Schwartz, left, and Billy Crystal star in Matt Ratner’s film director debut, “Standing Up, Falling Down.” The film, which shows on Feb. 8, is part of the 24th annual JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center’s Denver Jewish Film Festival.

COURTESY OF NOAH M. ROSENTHAL This year’s Denver Jewish Film Festival takes place Feb. 5-19. It is presented by the Sturm Family Foundation.

“The film festival remains our signature program,” said Steve Wilson, executive artistic director of the JCC Mizel Arts & Culture

Colorado Convention Center

February 22 – March 1 PRESENTED BY

SHOW FEATURES: • Get ideas, inspiration and advice for your home from more than 600 companies at Colorado’s largest home and garden marketplace.

• Research, compare and choose from thousands of products and services, and take advantage of show-only specials!

• Experience the Special Olympics Colorado Entry Garden presented by Bellco and see 10 more gardens bursting with thousands of beautiful flowers.

• Visit the CSU Education Garden to see the new plant varieties and get free advice from their Master Gardeners.

• Admission for kids is free, and the American Family Insurance Kid’s Zone offers a play structure, fun crafts and more!

SPONSORED BY

Center. “It brings Israel front and center to the discussion, no matter where you sit in Israeli politics.”

Wilson added that the JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center’s primary mission is to get people together and talk.

“The film festival does that almost better than anything else we have,” he said.

The festival’s films focus on Israeli-and-Jewish cinema from around the world. This year’s festival features films from 12 countries.

The films carry a variety of themes, such as coming-of-age debuts and intergenerational heart-warmers, for example. Genres include dramas, documentaries, comedies and biographies, such as one about Moe Berg — a Major League Baseball catcher who also was a U.S. spy — a fashion designer, Israeli politicians and a media mogul.

Wilson and Amy Weiner, director of the JCC’s festivals, work on the event year-round.

With lots of help from two volunteer review

The 24th annual JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center’s Denver Jewish Film Festival takes place Feb. 5-19. Most of the films will be shown in the Elaine Wolf Theatre at the Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St., in Denver.

Tickets cost $14 for adults and $12 for seniors and students per movie.

Ticket packages including festival passes and ticket 10-packs are available.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office, which is open Monday through Friday from 1-5 p.m. for walk-ups and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for phone inquiries. The box office can be reached at 303-316-6360.

To learn more about the Denver Jewish Film Festival, or to purchase tickets online, visit https://www. jccdenver.org/.

committees, they chose this year’s films from a selection of about 75 candidates.

Among Weiner’s favorites this year are “Leona,” a romance from Mexico that shows on Feb. 12, and “Tel Aviv on Fire,” in which an inexperienced young Palestinian man becomes a writer on a soap opera after a chance meeting with an Israeli soldier. It plays Feb. 16.

Wilson’s picks are “Aulcie,” which is about Aulcie Perry — a basketball legend who led Maccabi Tel Aviv to an upset victory in the 1977 European Championship — that shows on Feb. 15; and “Those Who Remained,” a Holocaust narrative that was Hungary’s submission for 2020 Foreign Language Oscar. “Those Who Remained” shows on Feb. 9.

“The Denver Jewish Film Festival,” Wilson said in a news release, “provides an opportunity for people of all faiths and backgrounds, film lovers and international film buffs to watch a variety of one-of-a-kind movies that are not available in other theaters in Colorado.”

HOURS & PRICING: Kids 12 and under are FREE Saturdays, Feb 22 and Feb 29 10 am – 8 pm Sundays, Feb 23 and Mar 1 10 am – 6 pm Friday, Feb 28 Noon – 7 pm $12 adults / $10 seniors Monday, Feb 24 – Thursday, Feb 27 Noon – 7 pm 2 for 1 Admission

PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS AT: GETTING THERE: Take light rail to the Convention Center or park at Empower Field at Mile High Lot C (West on Colfax from I-25. North on Federal Blvd) for $5 cash and ride the free shuttle to the show. your nonperishable SAVE $2 Donate get $2 off admission and w sho the food at rsday Monday Discount not valid

– Thu

• 100% of every ticket sold is awarded in horticulture grants and scholarships across Colorado.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

www.ColoradoGardenFoundation.org Produced by Colorado Garden Foundation, a non-profit organization providing grants and scholarships statewide.

“Picture of His Life” is a documentary about Amos Nachoum, known to be one of the greatest underwater photographers of all time. Its Denver premier takes place on Feb. 10 as part of the 24th annual JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center’s Denver Jewish Film Festival.

COURTESY OF HEY JUDE PRODUCTIONS

Washington Park Profile 9

February 2020

ONE THOUSAND AND COUNTING

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

T

he Denver Fire Department welcomed its newest members during its 2019-03 graduation ceremony on Jan. 17, marking the recruits’ successful completion of the fire academy. They bring the Denver Fire Department to 1,042 active members. The third class of graduates of 2019 totaled 23 people who range in diversity from a professional boxer and a former tight-end for the Denver Broncos, to two female military veterans and a man currently deployed with the military. Denver firefighters are dedicated and held to high expectations, said Chief of Department Eric Tade in his speech during the graduation.

“Our people join the Denver Fire Department to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Carly Taylor smiles as she receives her badge during the Denver Fire Department’s Class 201903 graduation ceremony on Jan. 17.

Daniel Ennis hugs his mom Stacey Ennis following the Denver Fire Department’s Class 2019-03 graduation ceremony on Jan. 17. Stacey Ennis flew in from Wisconsin to celebrate her son’s accomplishments in fire rescue.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

The Art of Movement Improvement Pilates • CoreAlign • Redcord

The newest members of the Denver Fire Department take the Oath of Office during the Denver Fire Department’s Class 2019-03 graduation ceremony on Jan. 17. The class totaled 23 people.

Upcoming Featured Workshops Near Wash Park BEGINNING MARCH 31st: FUNCTIONAL PFILATEs™ Pelvic floor training for hip, back and pelvic floor dysfunction.

An affordable 8 week, 3 phase program.

Register now at www.movestudiosdenver.com/workshops Eric Yamaguchi watches as his firefighter’s badge gets pinned on during the Denver Fire Department’s Class 2019-03 graduation ceremony on Jan. 17.

info@movestudiosdenver.com ● 303-999-0405 MOVE Studios, 40 S Broadway, Ste 201, Denver

10 Washington Park Profile

LOCAL

February 2020

VOICES

Everybody has a story — tell me yours

I

FROM THE EDITOR

Christy Steadman

ronically enough, after I had just started my new Denver beat in mid-December, I ran into the chief of police of my former beat, Golden, which I covered for four-and-a-half years.

Busy holiday shoppers walked around us at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center but time seemed still for a moment as the chief and I stood there, trying to figure out if our eyes were playing a trick on us.

While the chief was spending one of his vacation days to enjoy Cherry Creek, he may have thought I was playing hooky from my responsibilities with the Golden Transcript. But I was actually out gathering interviews for the first story with my byline to be published in the Washington Park Profile newspaper.

The chief and I exchanged hellos, engaged in a few minutes of friendly chitchat, then he wished me luck in my new professional role and we went our separate ways.

When a reporter changes beats within a greater metropolitan area, places that seemed familiar or commonplace before are now viewed through a different lens.

The mural on South Broadway — the one I’ve driven past probably thousands of times — is no longer just a cool painting on the side of a building.

It sparks an entirely new curiosity.

I wonder who the artist is? What was the inspiration for this particular piece?

And once you’ve earned some experience in a new beat, you gain a sense of ownership. The small, quirky live-music venue was before just a fun place where my boyfriend’s band would play from time to time. Now, I’m invested in it because it’s in my new coverage area.

Changing beats is like moving to a new community after living in a nearby one for a number of years.

Neonicotinoids on topic for environmental policy

T

he 2020 Colorado General Assembly has kicked off with more than 100 bills filed the first day, including from my count at least 26 bills that are related to environmental policy. Last year, 22 bills related to environmental policy went the distance and were signed into law.

Topics include fire mitigation, water quality, energy, air pollution, recycling, regenerative agriculture and open space conservation.

Last month, I highlighted some bills that dealt with plastics and pesticide pollution. Well, one more pesticide bill joined the mix in January, and it seeks to ban neonicotinoid pesticides from retail shelves. Large retail chains have begun to phase out of these chemicals over the past few years due to public pressure, but this retail ban is just the first step in reducing the use, according to proponents Environment Colorado.

Neonicotinoids disorient bees and inhibit them from returning to the hive, which leads to population decline. These systemic chemicals can also be absorbed into the plant and have been detected in pollen and nectar, which means they can show up in the honey within the hive and have far reaching effects on population of

the hive.

Gov. Jared Polis’s beekeeper — yes, that’s right, the governor has a beekeeper — Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera and First Gentleman Ean Thomas Tafoya Marlon Reis joined a half dozen legislators at the press conference for the bill. Environmental Colorado collected over 22 thousand petitions from Colorado residents in support of the ban.

So, what is going on with RTD? I promised we would take a look at this last month.

RTD just had board elections and Angie Rivera-Malpiede from District C in Denver has been elected chair. She becomes the first Latina ever elected to this position, and in her remarks, she talked of her first-hand knowledge of equity and transit as she balanced work and being a single mother raising children. Also in January, RTD shared the five finalists for an interim general manager and they sought input from the community.

ENVIRONMENT WITH EAN

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.washparkprofile.com/subscribe

By the time this will publish, it is likely that an interim will be selected and the search for a general manager will begin. Several of the RTD directors have stated they hope the search will include candidates nationwide, rather than strictly internal.

Beginning in late February, RTD will hold 18 public meetings to solicit feedback to the proposed route service cuts due to the driver shortage. Sen. Jack Tate has pulled a title for a bill concerning RTD. It seeks additional financial accountability, in addition to new governor-appointed positions to the board that would focus on equity and accessibility. There have also been advocates suggesting that the state legislature should remove the fair recovery percentage, and allow RTD to make its own budget decisions. Perhaps even make it free.

People like to do things that are free, and public transit will play a pivotal role in a Green New Deal to face the climate crisis head on.

Join me next month where we will take a look at the various public initiatives seeking to regulate oil and gas extraction in Denver and statewide.

Ean Thomas Tafoya is a climate and government activist. He can be reached at @BelieveEan on Twitter.

It’s a little intimidating at first, and sure, I’ll have to plug every address into my GPS for a while. But I’ll eventually learn the best routes to get around the city and, of course, get to know the neighbors.

That’s when the fun starts.

Perhaps it’s a story about the barista at your favorite mom-and-pop coffee shop around the corner.

Or the neighbor who spends all summer knitting to have enough warm, winterwear to donate to the nearby homeless shelter. Or the small business celebrating a milestone anniversary in the community.

I love local journalism for all the discoveries yet to be had. And I believe everybody has a story. So tell me yours. You can always find me at csteadman@ coloradocommunitymedia.com or 303-566-4107.

I’m looking forward to hearing all your stories and then sharing them with your neighbors by means of the written word in the Washington Park Profile.

Beneficial impacts of Denver policies are growing

T

his year, my annual look back and 2020 preview looks back further and deeper, not just at what passed, but at actual outcomes. There are rarely single solutions to big-city challenges, but when we pursue a range of strategies and track results, we can see positive impacts and grow them with important values like aligning wages and expanding affordable housing so more folks can afford Denver, and fighting climate change.

Stagnant wages are a significant factor in the struggle residents face making ends meet, so in 2019 we focused on raising incomes: In early 2019, we passed a phased minimum wage policy for city employees, contractors and tenants that will reach $15 by 2021. When the legislature gave cities permission to address income inequality for all our residents, we passed a citywide minimum wage ordinance.

More than 90,000 people who live and work in Denver will get a raise to $15.87/hour by 2022, which also reduces disparities for women and people of color.

Construction careers pay family-supporting wages. So Denver added construction apprenticeship training, and targeted outreach on a

pilot set of city construction projects in 2019. So far, an average of 13% of project hours are going to apprentice trainees and more than 231 workers from Denver’s most vulnerCouncilmember able zip codes were hired.

Robin Kniech Outcomes will grow in 2020 as the program ramps up.

Affordable housing and homelessness are still priorities for Denverites: The housing fund I championed in 2016 was doubled in 2018, and has increased housing stability for 20,000 households to date, including creating/preserving more than 2,200 affordable homes. It is always cheaper to keep someone housed than to find a new home or serve them in homelessness. A total of 2,051 households kept housing through the Temporary Rent and

GUEST COLUMN

SEE KNIECH, P11

JERRY HEALEY President

ERIN ADDENBROOKE Marketing Consultant

Columnists & Guest Commentaries

jhealey@coloradocommunitymedia.com

eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

CHRISTINA STEADMAN Editor

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager

csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Email letters to klamb@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager

ERIN FRANKS Production Manager

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

lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com

efranks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Profile.

We welcome letters to the editor. Please Include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Washington Park Profile 11

February 2020

O

Getting started with orchids

nce considered a hobby for the elite, new propagation techniques and the mass production of orchids has made the joy of growing these amazing plants accessible to everyone.

Unfortunately, orchids have developed an undeserved reputation of being difficult to grow. While some can be finicky and demanding, others are quite easy to cultivate in the home.

Good plants for beginners Perhaps the No. 1 choice for the first-time orchid grower is the Phalaenopsis, or, moth orchid. They readily adapt to our home conditions and reward the grower with flowers that can last for months at a time. Phalaenopsis plants prefer warm temperatures, low light levels and need to stay constantly moist — but never soggy.

Another popular choice for beginning orchid growers are Paphiopedilum, or, slipper orchids. The flowers can be so ugly they are beautiful — it’s all in the eye of the beholder.

Paphiopedilum orchids generally prefer low light levels, warm temperatures and must stay moist but not soggy. Paphiopedilum flowers are also long-lasting.

Oncidium, or, dancing lady orchids produce long sprays of smallish flowers that can resemble ladies in colorful ball gowns. They come in a variety of colors and many have a lovely fragrance as well. Some can grow quite large, so be careful to choose a plant that will fit your growing area for the long haul. Oncidium orchids generally need bright light, normal household temperatures and can dry out slightly between waterings.

The genus Dendrobium contains hundreds of species so there are a wide variety of cultural requirements for this group of plants.

Most sold in garden centers will require

Kniech FROM PAGE 10

Utility Assistance program. The Low-income Eviction Legal Defense services program, piloted by council in 2018, has aided 1,000 households, helping many win more time and/ or keep an eviction off their record.

In 2019, we legalized and supported Tiny Home Villages — one of the fastest and least expensive temporary paths off the streets — through amendments to Denver’s zoning/ building codes, city land and $125,000 for supportive services. Growing new villages to help residents off the streets while expanding permanent housing solutions must be a 2020 priority.

Supportive Housing is apartments without time limits where residents have leases and pay rent — it’s NOT shelter — with on-site services that promote safety and stability. Since 2016, 330 people moved from parks, alleys and streets into SH through a Social Impact Bond, with 79% of participants still housed two years after entering housing. Additional SH outside the bond is showing similar positive results.

In 2020 and beyond, new Supportive Housing will be built in neighborhoods across the city, supported by the Housing Fund.

Several Capitol Hill neighborhood leaders helped my office create a Neighborhood Engagement Guide, to be released in 2020, that will help housing teams and communities learn and prepare to engage respectfully

bright light, but can dry out slightly between waterings. Some will require a dry rest period in the fall and/ or a drop in temperatures to encourage good blooming. You’ll need to research the specific Dendrobium you have.

Most people associate Cattleya flowers with corsages. Naturally occurring Cattleya orchids can be quite large but thankfully hybridizers have developed smaller plants that most hobbyists can find room to accommodate. Cattleya orchids need bright light, average household temperatures and can dry slightly between waterings.

GUEST COLUMN Nick Snakenberg

Want to learn more?

Over the next couple of months, Denver Botanic Gardens is offering several great opportunities to view these exotic blossoms and maybe even purchase plants to try at home.

The annual Orchid Showcase in the Orangery is on view through Feb. 16. Hundreds of blossoms are on exhibit and while the display plants are not for sale, a local orchid grower is on site on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with plants for purchase, during the run of the show. And don’t miss the Denver Orchid Society’s Show and Sale March 14-15. Local hobbyists will display their home-grown plants and compete for prizes. Experts will also answer any of your orchid questions.

Again, display plants will not be for sale but there will be plenty of plants to choose from at their sales table.

Whether an experienced orchid grower or someone new to the hobby, drop in and see what all the fuss is about!

Nick Snakenberg is the curator of orchids at the Denver Botanic Gardens.

around proposals for new Supportive Housing.

While a new Climate Task Force launches in 2020 to look at big, catalytic policies to fund the renewable energy, efficiency and transportation solutions needed to reduce our climate impact, earlier policies will also produce results: The Energize Denver Commercial Building Energy Benchmarking and Reporting standards I championed in 2016 resulted in an energy reduction of 4.5% by 1,161 reporting buildings in its first year, saving $13.5 million and thousands of pounds of C02.

Denver adopted a City Electric Vehicle Purchasing Policy I advocated for, which will help prevent 11,500 tons of emissions over 10 years.

I’m also working to ensure we prioritize transforming our solid waste system to incentivize diversion in 2020.

Together, policy and dedicated funding had big impacts on affordable housing. Based on the consistent requests of my constituents and huge unmet needs, ensuring we have similar, dedicated revenue for climate, multi-modal transportation and addressing homelessness will be among my highest priorities for this coming year.

My office hopes to hear from you. Please email Kniechatlarge@denvergov.org to continue the conversation.

Robin Kniech is a councilmember at-large on the Denver City Council. At-large council members represent the city as a whole. She can be reached at kniechatlarge@denvergov.org.

Orchids on display at Denver Botanic Gardens.

COURTESY PHOTO

Find Out More Reasons Why Back Pain Lasts Longer Than It Should - ATTENTION ACTIVE DENVER ADULTS! Help is coming your way if you are experiencing pain. Doctor of Physical Therapy, Brooke Olsen is planning a free, one-hour community educational event called “How to End Your Lingering Back Pains to Live Your Most Active & Confident Life”.

It starts at 6:00PM on Tuesday, February 18th at The Physio Revolution in Denver, CO and is aimed at people who: • Suffer with back or leg pain when they stand or walk.

• Pain when they sit for long periods of time.

• Experience pain, numbness, or tingling.

• Experience their lower back “giving out” or “acting up” frequently.

• Are afraid their pain will get worse if they don’t do anything about it Brooke said, “Back pain and sciatica issues can completely ruin people’s life. It can have people needing to lean on the shopping cart when they are walking through the supermarket. It can stop you from a good night’s sleep, mess up travel

plans, force you to question your retirement dreams and simply drain any enjoyment out of life until it is gone.”

But help doesn’t have to involve pills or surgery. The workshop will highlight the mistakes which stop people from healing, the 3 most common causes of lower back pain, the best treatments and how to pick the right one. To secure a seat, contact (720)-772-1133.

If you are an active adult with back aches or pain that just won’t go away, this workshop is for you! Brooke will personally teach you how to get them to completely go away naturally WITHOUT resorting to medications, surgeries, or injections. This is a FREE community educational event - There is no cost to attend - To keep it valuable, interactive, and fun, we’ve capped it to ONLY 12 spots available.

Contact Our Client Care Specialist, Annie at (720)-772-1133 or claim your spot by going to www.ThePhysioRevolution.Com/ Back-Workshop/ Event Details: 6:00PM on Tuesday, February 18th at The Physio Revolution 1224 S. Acoma St Denver CO 80223.

12 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

L E G I S L AT I V E S E S S I O N 2 0 2 0

Battle lines drawn for legislative session Transportation, gas tax, less-known Labor Peace Act emerge as top 2020 contention points

By Ellis Arnold

I From left, House Minority Leader Patrick Neville, Senate Assistant Minority Leader John Cooke, House Speaker K.C. Becker and Senate President Leroy Garcia on stage at the annual Business Legislative Preview. The Jan. 7 event in downtown Denver was hosted by the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Colorado Competitive Council, a business advocacy organization.

ELLIS ARNOLD

Transportation, education, medical care also in spotlight for legislators

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

F

or the past three years, Colorado has had the No. 1 economy in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report, which also has ranked Denver as the second-best place to live in the nation for the past three years.

Those assertions come from U.S. News & World Report, and were brought to the attention of the hundreds of attendees of the seventh annual Business Legislative Preview on Jan. 7 at the Grand Hyatt Denver.

“But we can’t maintain that position if we are not thoughtful about policy,” said Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kelly Brough in her closing remarks at the event.

Maintaining a strong economy is only one of the many issues that Denver’s legislators will be focusing on in 2020.

One legislative goal that was accomplished in 2019 was the passing of House Bill 1262, which provides free full-day kindergarten to Colorado families, said House Majority Leader Alec Garnett, D-Denver. Making sure that future budgets will allow free kindergarGarnett ten to continue is one issue Garnett will be paying attention to, he said.

School funding in general — specifically for Denver Public Schools — is another concern of Garnett’s constituents in House District 2, he said. The district includes Washington Park.

“Education is key,” Garnett said, adding that “the Wash-

ington Park community knows education is the path to utilizing all the opportunities Colorado has to offer.”

Garnett is also committed to ending Colorado’s wait list for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities who need what he called “wrap-around services,” meaning care or services available 24/7.

Other issues Garnett will be focusing on include gun safety — especially in schools, he said — and the high suicide rate among teens.

Similarly, Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver, whose district includes Capitol Hill, will put attention on mental health issues and, separately but sometimes related, substance abuse.

These issues, as well as criminal justice reform, “affect our everyday lives,” Herod said. “Mental health affects us all. We need to address it.”

What Herod calls “quality of life issues” Herod will be another focus of hers in 2020. These stem from the concerns that come directly from talking with constituents, Herod said.

One such issue is fertility treatment not being covered by insurance. Colorado is not one of the 17 states in the U.S. that includes fertility treatment in insurance plans, and one in eight Colorado couples and/or families need fertility treatment options, Herod said.

Herod also said that “Colorado has underfunded infrastructure for decades — in Denver-metro and across the state.”

She expects the 2020 legislative session to include ongoing conversations about quality roads and public transit infrastructure, and funding for these issues.

Lowering healthcare costs, the high cost of living in Colorado and housing affordability are also matters the General Assembly will be focusing on, Herod and Garnett said.

But “these priorities are just the beginning,” Brough said.

“There’s dozens of other bills that we will deal with — from data privacy to school funding to pharmaceutical pricing.

And we will keep track of those issues as well.”

earnold@coloradocommunitymedia.com

n Colorado’s second year of total statehouse control

by Democrats after the 2018 election, one top Republican is hanging onto his optimism.

“I know the constitution very well,” said Chris Holbert, state Senate minority leader. “I take some level of positive outlook on I know how this game must be played and not be played.”

Colorado has a long history of bipartisan cooperation, Holbert said in a phone call ahead of the Jan. 8 kickoff of this year’s state legislative session, the roughly four-month period in which bills are passed.

State House Speaker K.C. Becker sounded similar notes, saying her Democrats constantly try to shape bills Holbert in a bipartisan way despite their wide majority.

For all the talk of cooperation, though, the state Legislature is headed for friction on both well-worn fights — such as transportation funding and health care costs — and lesser-known nuggets, including the state’s Labor Peace Act, which affects how workers decide to form unions.

Becker Another defining issue for Democrats will be paid family leave, a proposal that returns this year after lawmakers in 2019 approved a study on how it would work.

Here’s a look at what both sides are saying about those issues and how they may play out in this year’s session.

Gassed up The multi-billion-dollar shortfall at the Colorado Department of Transportation rolls onward, and Holbert, the state senator from Parker, argues the state has enough money in its current revenue structure to pay a large amount down each year.

“We want the minimum each year to be $300 million for transportation,” Holbert said, adding he’d like that amount to go toward paying back bonds, or debt that governments take on to pay for long-term projects.

Becker, of Boulder, took issue with the characterization that the state hasn’t recently prioritized transportation funding enough.

“Our transportation was initially intended to be funded by the gas tax,” Becker said in a phone call. That’s important “especially given that the state picks up a greater and greater share of K-12 education than it did 30 years ago.”

A dollar in gas tax revenue today was worth much more decades ago when the tax was first passed, Becker said. One idea is to tie the tax — which has long sat at 22 cents per gallon — to inflation.

SEE LEGISLATURE, P13

Washington Park Profile 13

February 2020

L E G I S L AT I V E S E S S I O N 2 0 2 0

Infrastructure and wilderness — and everything between DeGette discusses national and local issues with media

By Christy Steadman

U

csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, D-CO, hosted a meetand-greet with local print media representatives on Jan. 17 in her office in downtown Denver.

She entertained an hour-long, on-the-record discussion on current issues including the Trump

impeachment trial, funding for roads on a national level, immigration and U.S. border detention centers, the rising costs of insulin and federal cannabis regulations.

The congresswoman also briefed attendees about some of the bills that passed last session, which ones need more work and what she expects to pass this upcoming year.

“We passed over 400 bills in the House last year” which are still waiting to go forward in the Senate, DeGette said. “About two-thirds of those bills are bipartisan bills.”

And there’s “still some bipartisan things happening,” she added.

Here are some of the issues DeGette mentioned: Infrastructure bill

This bill would include “not just roads and highways, but also medical record interoperability, healthcare issues (and) water projects.”

Reduce methane waste from oil and gas sites across the country

Smoking age

“One thing that didn’t get very much press, but is huge, is the appropriations bill that we did in the (last) session. We raised the smoking age to 21 and that was a bill that I was working on for some years.”

“It’s win-win bill because if you can reduce the methane gas, it’s good for the environment. But it’s also good economically for the oil and gas companies. We passed this bill through the Energy and Commerce Committee and now we’re trying to get it through the Natural Resources Committee.”

U.S. Olympic Committee

“I developed legislation which would create an independent commission to reform the U.S. Olympic Committee, so that it’s focused more on the athletes and less on winning at all costs.”

Legislature FROM PAGE 12

It’s unclear exactly how much more money that would pull in: Over a few decades, it would garner somewhere in the billions, Becker said. It isn’t a total solution on its own, but “it stops the bleeding,” she added.

Holbert currently opposes a gas tax increase, arguing the state already pulls in enough to pay for transportation if it chose to, but he said an increase would likely have bipartisan support.

“I’ve heard from voters, even in Douglas County, who say if you want more transportation money, do it through the gas tax,” Holbert said.

Health care options Some Democrats’ desire for a public option — a governmentrun type of health insurance Coloradans could choose — drew fire even before the session kicked off.

“There’s no appetite on our side of the aisle,” Holbert said.

“There’s not unanimous appetite on the Democrat side too … I’m hearing secondhand.”

State House Minority Leader Patrick Neville, a Castle Rock Republican, argued a public option would drive health care costs up

Colorado Wilderness Act

“This is a bill that protects over 600,000 acres of Colorado (land) - 32 separate areas across the state … (It) was brought to me by a group of citizen activists in 1999 and I’ve been working on it ever since. It passed the Natural Resources Committee this fall and … if it passes the House, it’ll be the largest wilderness bill to pass in Colorado.”

and push doctors out of the state.

“Quite frankly, the public option scares the heck out of me. It’s not a small step toward single-payer — it’s a giant leap toward single-payer,” Neville said on stage Jan. 7 at the Business Legislative Preview in downtown Denver.

“Single-payer” — which is not being proposed — means one government-run agency oversees health insurance for everyone, rather than having multiple competing insurance companies.

A public option, on the other hand, would add a government program alongside the current private insurance. Supporters of a public option say it would drive costs down by creating more competition for private companies.

The state government would oversee the program, but private insurance carriers would administer it and hold the financial risk, according to a fact sheet by the state, which refers to the plan as a public-private partnership.

Colorado taxpayers would not fund the health care plans, specifically, but the program hopes to make care more affordable, partly by changing the rate at which providers are reimbursed, using a hospital-specific formula.

If the federal government gives the green light, the state could also use $89 million to lower

deductibles and out-of-pocket, or other, costs to consumers.

An alternative route is the “total cost of care” proposal, Becker said at the Jan. 7 event, referring to a limit for how much costs can rise for each sector of the healthcare industry.

Republicans say they want to focus on more on price transparency than price controls. Becker pointed to a lack of accountability in different parts of the insurance system.

“People across the nation are dealing with growing and growing and growing healthcare costs,” Becker said. “You have pharmaceutical companies point to the (pharmacy benefit managers) and PBMs point to insurers and insurers point to hospitals and everyone says, ‘It’s their fault.’”

Leave is back In 2019, Democrats’ push to allow workers up to 12 weeks of paid family leave — to care for a sick family member, tend to a personal medical issue or take care of a new child — eventually lost steam, with lawmakers passing a study on the program instead.

The program would have required the state to collect a premium on each person’s paycheck, with employees and employers sharing the cost.

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, D-CO, listens to a question asked by a local newspaper reporter during a media meet-and-greet and on-the-record discussion about current issues on Jan. 17.

CHRISTY STEADMAN

Someone earning between $12,001 and $20,000 a year would pay from $38 to $64 a year into the fund, and employees earning $60,001 to $80,000 would pay from $192 to $256.

“I’m glad we took a pause to not pass it last year and get a real actuarial analysis done,” Becker said.

Unlike during last year, the Legislature now may consider a “private marketplace solution” instead of a more state-led model, Becker added. It’s unclear how the proposal will ultimately shape up.

Fears about how a family leave program could affect small businesses were one of the reasons the proposal couldn’t succeed last year, Becker said.

“Those things have to be revisited. My district includes a lot of seasonal workers,” Becker said, adding that this year’s attempt needs to “provide greater assurances to small business.”

Laboring in details Something even local political junkies may not have encountered before is the Colorado Labor Peace Act, a law that labor advocates want to change.

In some states, approval by more than 50% of workers is enough to create a union, but Colorado’s law requires two rounds of voting, according to

the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation. The first, a “vote-to-have-a-vote,” requires approval from 50%, plus one of the employees in the company, according to Metro Denver. If that hurdle is cleared, a second vote takes place, and if 75% approve, all employees must pay dues and belong to the union.

Some advocates want to make it easier to unionize. Neville and Senate Assistant Minority Leader John Cooke, a Greeley Republican, said they aren’t interested at all in changes.

If the bar for unionizing gets lower, “we’re going to see a huge (conflict) between labor and management,” Cooke said at the Jan. 7 Legislative Preview downtown, which was hosted by the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Colorado Competitive Council, a business advocacy organization.

Becker framed the issue within “the broader topic” of how workers are doing in Colorado and said Democrats want to make sure “no one feels left behind in this economy.”

“It’s one idea to say: How do we make sure everyone is benefiting, that workers have their best opportunity to benefit from a thriving economy?” said Becker.

“So I think that’s one solution folks are looking at.”

14 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

MUCH MORE THAN BOOKS

r t f

d l C t Markie Arendelle patches up his winter coat on a sewing machine at the Denver Public Library’s IdeaLAB makerspace.

Arendelle, a singer and DJ, called the makerspace “empowering.” PHOTOS BY DAVID GILBERT

i i R w curveball.

R Anthony Montoya, a tax attorney w in Castle Rock, found himself jobless i when his law firm laid off his divip sion.

“I was on my own all of a sudden, and everybody said I needed a commercial,” Montoya said. “Studios wanted to charge a lot of money, but the library in Parker had a green room, cameras and editing software.”

A Douglas County librarian gave Montoya and his wife a crash course in the equipment, and over a couple visits, he produced his own commercial.

“Another attorney told me recently they really liked my commercial, and asked who I hired to make it,” Montoya said. “I was pretty tickled by that.”

Want to record a song? Learn to sew? Try virtual reality? Head to the library!

By David Gilbert dgilbert@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Arapahoe Libraries technology specialist Kate O’Brien plays a tune in Southglenn Library’s recording studio.

It all started with a state parks pass.

Areli Alcazar, a teacher at Kenton Elementary School in Aurora, stopped by the Schlessman branch of Denver Public Library a couple years ago, where a librarian told her DPL checks out passes to Colorado State Parks.

Before long, Alcazar and her family were hitting the trails in Roxborough and Chatfield state parks for the first time, toting a library-provided knapsack filled with binoculars, field guides and other gear.

“The pass gave us an incentive to be adventurous,” Alcazar said.

When she dropped off the pass at the library, she asked what else the library had to offer. The answers are still unfolding, and Alcazar is hooked.

An avid biker, Alcazar uses the library’s bike repair kits. Her desk is scattered with keepsakes and doohickeys she’s 3D-printed at Denver

library makerspaces. She learned to sew LED lights into clothing. She helped her mom test the efficiency of her home appliances with a power check meter. She and her friends check out passes to local museums.

Now, when she’s bored, Alcazar said she drops into a library and asks what they can teach her today.

“If it’s all at our disposal,” Alcazar said, “why not try it out?”

‘The sky’s the limit’ Across the Denver metro area, libraries are redefining themselves, with innovative offerings meant to expand minds and lives.

“When people say libraries are obsolete, we say, ‘Are they? Let’s find out,’ ” said Anthony White, the manager of web systems for Arapahoe Libraries, which operates eight branches in Arapahoe County.

The district now features three recording studios outfitted with green screen walls and video and audio editing software. The Koelbel branch has a 39-seat theater available

WPVC

Washington Park Veterinary Clinic February is National Pet Dental Month

10% OFF Dental Cleaning Services please mention this ad

393 S. Pearl St. • 303-871-8050 • www.washingtonparkvc.com

Karen Jones-Diller, DVM | Laura Lederman, DVM | Lindsey Rademacher, DVM

With loving hearts and caring hands, we take the time to help you provide the best care for your pets.

for plays, films and performances.

The Castlewood branch will reopen in April with a purpose-built makerspace, featuring 3D printers, laser cutters, a ceramic kiln and more — double the size of the old makerspace, housed in a repurposed conference room.

“We really want to explore all the roles a library can play in a community,” White said. “The sky’s the limit.”

For some, that can mean learning skills that are otherwise out of reach.

Emily Roberts, a university librarian herself, wanted to try working with wool.

She bought $15 worth of raw wool online, then headed to Castlewood Library to process it on a drum carding machine.

“I could invest $15 to learn something new,” Roberts said. “What I couldn’t do was invest $300 in classes and studio time. The library staff walked me through it — there’s only so much you can learn from a book.”

For others, it can mean a welcome reprieve when life throws them a

H f D r t 2 s

‘A beautiful thing’ New library offerings can be a powerful force for self-sufficiency, said Ashley Kazyaka, the program SEE LIBRARY, P15

Washington Park Profile 15

February 2020

Legislature likely to repeal Colorado death penalty After Dems’ failed attempts in prior years, two key GOP votes may change outcome

By Ellis Arnold earnold@coloradocommunitymedia.com

After years of coming up short, advocates of repealing the death penalty may finally cross the finish line this year with newfound support from two Republican senators.

“From a philosophical perspective, I now don’t think the state should have power over life and death,” said state Sen. Jack Tate, a Centennial Republican who was undecided on the issue last year.

Tate and Colorado Springs state Sen. Owen Hill, a Republican who also has voiced support for a repeal this year, may be enough to give Democrats the edge. The state Legislature has recently seen repeated attempts to overturn the death penalty: It failed in 2013, 2017 and 2019, despite Democrats controlling both the state House and Senate last year.

Democrats haven’t been united on the issue. Two of the three people on death row in Colorado — Sir Mario Owens and Robert Ray — were sentenced to die in connection with the 2005 murder of the son of state Sen. Rhonda Fields, an Aurora Democrat. Her son was a witness in another murder case involving Owens.

The experience places Fields firmly in opposition to repealing the death penalty, and

Library FROM PAGE 14

coordinator for Denver Public Library’s IdeaLAB, a group of makerspaces spread throughout the DPL system.

“I think there’s a beautiful thing that happens when you learn to do something yourself,” said Kazyaka, amid a hum of activity in the Central Branch’s IdeaLAB. “People can come in here and learn to sew on buttons or fix their cell phones. We’ve even had people experiencing homelessness who come in and 3D-print replacement parts for their backpacks. The ability to solve problems can translate into bigger things in people’s lives.”

At a nearby sewing machine, Markie Arendelle sat at a sewing machine, repairing a rip in his winter coat.

last year, at least a few other Democrats hadn’t publicly committed to the repeal.

In the state House, Rep. Tom Sullivan, whose son was killed in the 2012 Aurora theater shooting, argues there are certain cases where capital punishment is warranted.

“There’s no question in my mind that the man that murdered my son and 11 others — 58 others shot, traumatized an entire community — there’s no question in my mind that he should be put to death,” said Sullivan, a Democrat from Centennial.

‘Irreversible mistakes’ 18th Judicial District Attorney George Brauchler argues that the death penalty is a useful negotiation tool, pointing to the case of Chris Watts, a Frederick man who pleaded guilty to avoid the death penalty after killing his wife and daughters in 2018.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Colorado calls the death penalty “an expensive, ineffective, and unjust government program that risks making irreversible mistakes by executing innocent people, delays justice for victims’ families, and wastes millions of dollars that could be better used on programs that actually save lives and increase public safety,” its website says. At least 166 people have been exonerated from death rows across the country, an ACLU Colorado fact sheet says.

The organization also argues that in Colorado, racial minorities are disproportionately likely to face the death penalty.

Sullivan, whose House district includes east and central Centennial, Foxfield, and nearby areas, said he may be willing to tackle some aspects of the death penalty, such as its more “This place is empowering,” said Arendelle, a singer and DJ. “I’m self-employed, and here I can print my stickers and iron-on patches — it saves me so much money.”

Libraries can also give people a chance to try out tech and toys they might not otherwise have access to, said Andrea Wyant, a collection development librarian for Douglas County Libraries.

Wyant heads the district’s “nontraditional items” collection, where patrons can check out items ranging from high-end digital cameras, virtual reality headsets and karaoke machines to digital projectors and retro video game consoles.

“We can give people access to things they can use and return without cluttering up their houses or unnecessarily duplicating things,” Wyant said. “Sharing is caring. How much stuff do we all need in our lives?”

frequent use in wealthier areas and the uncertainty in whether it deters crime.

“But in an instance that I was personally involved in and I see more people personally involved with, as I’ve said, I’m not going to be the one to tell those other families that they’re not going to be able to pursue the justice thy want,” Sullivan said.

Along with Owens and Ray, the only other inmate on death row in Colorado is Nathan Dunlap, convicted of a 1993 shooting at an Aurora Chuck E. Cheese. All three are black men who attended Overland High School in Aurora at different times.

Fields, whose Senate district sits near Overland, said race is a coincidence in those cases.

“I think they just happened to be black,” Fields said. Dunlap “is black, but he killed (people) that should be alive today.”

“I don’t think it’s about color — I think it’s about murder,” Fields added.

Brauchler, whose judicial district includes Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties, said there recently have been Colorado death row inmates of other races and some death penalty sentences were overturned by a 2002 U.S. Supreme Court decision in a case called Ring v. Arizona, which affected how states apply the death penalty.

On the issue of whether the death penalty deters criminals, the National Research Council reviewed research and found no credible evidence that the death penalty deters crime any more than long prison sentences, ACLU Colorado cites. The National Research Council is an arm of the National Academy of Sciences, a nonprofit that studies national and world issues.

The 2012 report “concludes that research to date on the effect of capital punishment on homicide rates is not useful in determining whether the death penalty increases, decreases, or has no effect on these rates,” the National Academy’s website says.

Research has found “you can’t draw conclusions one way or the other,” Brauchler said.

The district attorney argued that for inmates with life sentences for murder, taking away the death penalty would remove the potential for further punishment if they kill a prison guard or another inmate.

“It will essentially say once you do your first murder, the rest are free,” Brauchler said.

Looking to the future A wide range of new offerings doesn’t mean libraries are skimping on the reading material, said Donna Walker, the executive director of Jefferson County Libraries. In fact, she said, they’re exploring new ways to deliver that, too.

Jeffco’s libraries are expanding their e-book offerings, and for those who prefer the printed page, they’re rolling out Redbox-like book vending machines and Amazon-style lockers.

Patrons can also schedule home or office visits from librarians who specialize in fields like academics or business.

Meanwhile, Jeffco is in the process of remodeling all 10 of its branches, including, yes, more makerspaces.

“We want to stay a step ahead of the community,” Walker said. “A decade ago, people said: ‘Who goes to the library anymore?’ Now, we’re hearing from people who have cards to five different local library systems.”

Walker said in a time of expansion, it’s important that libraries endear themselves to the community. While the economy is hot now, they’ve got to prepare in case things get tight.

“During the recession, libraries faced a lot of hardships,” Walker said. “Hours were cut. Positions were cut. Our job is to manage our growth and our finances, and build relationships.

Libraries are an essential service. They’re part of the bedrock of democracy.”

The big picture, Walker said, is that libraries are expanding beyond the buildings they’re housed in.

“We talk about the library being everywhere,” Walker said. “Libraries can be in your pocket.

We can come to you.”

While libraries don’t charge users for services, Walker said, everyone chips in.

“People are paying for this through their taxes,” Walker said. “You might as well use what you’re paying for.”

Rare application This year’s proposal, Senate Bill 20-100, would repeal the death penalty for offenses charged on or after July 1, 2020.

Gov. Jared Polis has said that if the Legislature repeals the death penalty, he’d consider commuting Colorado’s death row inmates’ sentences. A vote for the repeal bill is a vote for that outcome, Brauchler said.

The last time Colorado executed an inmate was in 1997, and the most recent time before that was in 1967.

Fields, Sullivan and Brauchler all prefer the question of repealing the death penalty to be answered by voters in a statewide ballot question.

Tate said he understands that preference but that he has a “traditional view of the role of the lawmaker.”

“I notice that we don’t send every tough decision at the Capitol to a vote of the people,” Tate said.

Athena Athletic Camp A multi-sport camp for rising 3rd-9th grade girls • Empower girls through sport

(Sherri Somerville)

THENA

REgistER OnLinE at:

www.athenaathleticCamps.com Use EARLY20 by April 30, 2020 and get $20 off the $350 camper tuition.

AT

303-904-1989 | www.housecallvetservice.com

• Build team and individual skills

H

P

Dr. Sherri Folkestad • DVM

• Learn how to support and elevate each other

LE

M

Full Service Veterinary Care in the Comfort of Your Home Serving metro Denver since 1985

June 15-19, 2020

• Develop self confidence

A

Denver South High School

A TIC C

16 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Colorado Competitive Council names new director Lauren Masias comes from Denver South Economic Development Partnership Staff report Lauren Masias has been named the new director for the Colorado Competitive Council, according to a news release.

Masias, a Colorado native, most recently served as managing director of stakeholder engagement for the Denver South Economic Development Partnership. She has experience in economic development, stakeholder engagement, public policy and transportation.

Masias will manage all aspects of C3, including financial oversight, investor relations, steering committee engagement and advocacy strategy.

“Lauren has a strong knowledge of how policy affects the business community and employers’ ability to put Coloradans to work in good jobs,” Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kelly Brough said in the news release. “We are excited to have Lauren join the chamber family and lead C3’s efforts to preserve and enhance the competitive business climate in Colorado.”

Founded in 2005 as an affiliate of the Denver Metro Chamber, C3 develops policy solutions that benefit Colorado businesses and ensures that the state continues to be competitive locally and globally, the news release said. With reach across the state, C3

investors and steering committee members collaborate to amplify the voice of the business community at the Capitol and on the ballot. The organization has more than 60 steering committee members who represent business interests across the state, along with 35 business investors who drive C3’s advocacy positions.

In her most recent role with the Denver South Economic Development Partnership, Masias focused on creating corporate and community strategic alliances. She also coordinated events, including the partnership’s Bike to Work Day activities. Before joining the partnership, Masias worked in the regional marketing office for Chrysler Motors and at various nonprofits.

“I look forward to further developing the successful platforms that C3 has created. I’ll focus on the expansion and development of new initiatives to increase membership and continue to build on the collaborative approach that has been developed with our current partners. I’m very excited to bring my experience to effectively strengthen the relationships with our strategic partners, elected offices and business leaders from around the state to grow Colorado’s strong economy,” Masias said in the release.

Masias serves on the Young Professional Board of Directors for Project C.U.R.E. She received her bachelor of science in mass communications from Colorado State University-Pueblo. She is an avid skier and enjoys playing a competitive game of tennis when she’s not running in Washington Park with her Wheaten terrier.

Masias succeeds Nick Colglazier, who stepped down as C3 director in December.

Lauren Masias has been named director for the Colorado Competitive Council.

COURTESY PHOTO

Compliant IDs required for travel in late 2020 Colorado issued compliant licenses, idenification cards since 2012 Staff report U.S. residents traveling in late 2020 will need to make sure they have a REAL ID starting Oct. 1. Identification cards and licenses that are compliant will have a star in the corner.

Colorado has issued compliant identification cards and licenses since 2012; however, residents who do not have a REAL ID - identifiable by a star in the corner of the card - are urged to not wait until the last minute to get a REAL ID.

To become REAL ID compliant, residents must go through the Department of Motor Vehicle’s normal issuance process. Visit https://www.colorado.gov/dmv for information on licensing and identification requirements.

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act established national standards for stateissued driver licenses and identification cards.

In accordance with the act, the DMV must verify an applicant’s full legal name, identity, date of birth, and lawful presence in the United States when issuing a Colorado driver license or state identification card.

Starting Oct. 1, residents must have a REAL ID, or another acceptable form of identification, to access federal facilities and board commercial aircraft.

Local Focus. More News.

17 newspapers. 20 websites. Connecting YOU to your LOCAL community.

ColoradoCommunityMedia.com 303-566-4100

Washington Park Profile 17

February 2020

Probe can’t confirm sightings of drones Reports from rural Colorado, other areas lead some to doubt official denial

By Mead Gruver Associated Press

An official investigation into reports of large drones flying in groups over the Western U.S. plains in the hours after sunset has confirmed nothing illegal or out of the ordinary, a finding of little solace to folks who say the truth is still out there.

Investigators will scale back flights of a heatdetecting plane to try to corroborate reports as they’re made but will continue to look into new reports, Colorado officials said Jan. 14.

“The Department of Public Safety is committed to still gathering investigation evidence,” Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management spokeswoman Micki Trost said.

The investigation focused on an area roughly along Interstate 76 through northeastern Colorado but didn’t extend into Nebraska or Wyoming, where reports also have been made.

Several confirmed drone sightings in Colorado turned out to be small, hobbyist drones, known commercial aircraft or weather phenomena.

For Dan Carlson, who said he’s spotted and even followed large drones flying remarkably long distances near his farm in western Nebraska, the summary of findings puts little to rest.

“What I saw did not conform to either a hobbyist drone or a civilian-aviation aircraft,” said Carlson, a retired meteorologist.

For over a month, law enforcement agencies in eastern Colorado and much of Nebraska have been taking calls about unusual drone sightings.

Drones as big as cars have been said to fly back and forth in the sky for extended periods after sundown.

F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, which oversees 150 Minuteman III nuclear missiles in silos scattered across the prairie in the three-state region, denied involvement.

“Our base is kind of a drone no-fly zone. So we do have counter-UAS — unmanned aerial systems — training that goes on within the confines of this installation. But any drones spotted outside this installation are not part of our fleet,” base spokesman Lt. Jon Carkhuff said.

Base personnel haven’t seen any of the pur-

ported drones, he added, though they are cooperating with the Federal Aviation Administration and FBI. The Colorado Department of Public Safety, working with local law enforcement, found: • Of 90 drone reports received from Nov. 23 to Jan. 13, law enforcement officials were able to confirm that 14 were smaller-sized hobbyist drones.

• Of 23 drone reports between Jan. 6 and Jan. 13, a period that involved flights of the heat-detecting plane working in conjunction with investigators on the ground, officials determined 13 were smaller hobbyist drones, stars or planets and six were attributable to known commercial aircraft or atmospheric conditions. Authorities weren’t able to identify fliers of the hobbyist drones.

• Four confirmed sightings of the 23 were unidentified.

• A drone reported to have flown near a Flight for Life medical helicopter during daytime didn’t appear related to the recent sightings. Investigators couldn’t confirm a violation occurred.

Colorado has more than 24,000 registered drones, and pilots reported over 2,200 drone sightings in Colorado to the FAA in 2018, state officials pointed out in a news release.

Weird-drone reports from coast to coast abound on social media, but the local phenomenon may be tapering off in recent days.

“The sightings and the reports in my county have diminished incredibly,” Morgan County, Colorado, Sheriff David Martin said on Jan. 14.

Yet Carlson said he’s sighted drones four times since Jan. 4, including drones that appeared in pairs twice. While he couldn’t confirm their shape in the dark, the changing orientation of their blue, white, red and sometimes green lights suggested rotation, he said.

They came within a mile or two of his house, flying about 800 feet high. One drone sped away at up to 60 mph when he drove after it, he said.

He followed the drone over 10 miles. Others he saw fly over the horizon, which he estimated was at least 20 miles distant over the sparsely populated area north of Sidney, Nebraska.

Usually he hears aircraft clearly on cold winter nights, he said.

“It was the kind of night that if an airplane flies over at 30,000 feet, you hear it. No sound with these,” Carlson said.

One drone he saw hovered over a missile command station within sight of his farm, Carlson said, making him question the Air Force denial.

A military contractor could be testing new technology while the military maintains “plausible deniability,” he said.

‘Drones: Is The Sky The Limit?’ features real drones, in-depth label paneling, and rich audio-visual content. The exhibit opens Feb. 1 at Wings Over the Rockies and is included in the price of admission.

COURTESY OF WINGS OVER THE ROCKIES

Wings Over the Rockies opens drones exhibit Staff report With drone applications for home use, entertainment, homeland defense, and more, will people continue to make the critical decisions or will computers take over the controls? Find out in “Drones: Is the Sky the Limit?” the latest traveling exhibition coming to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.

Over 75 years, drones have evolved from remote-controlled planes used for target practice into versatile and highly specialized aircraft. As these aircraft fill the skies, they raise concerns about airspace, privacy, and ethics in modern warfare. But these concerns are eclipsed by excitement for their potential: someday drones will explore Mars, serve as pilotless flying taxis, and deliver packages and groceries to our front doors.

Opening Saturday, Feb. 1, “Drones: Is The Sky The Limit?” features real drones, in-depth label paneling, and rich audiovisual content. In addition, it displays a drone racing video interactive, and provides a birds-eye view of the aeronautics, engineering, science, technologies and innovations of one of the most intriguing topics dominating our culture.

“Drones are becoming an increasingly important part of our daily life,” Wings Over the Rockies President and CEO Maj Gen John Barry, USAF (Ret), said in a news release. “The exhibit will tell the story of drone technology over time while educating audiences about their importance across dozens of industries. We are thrilled to be bringing this engaging exhibition to the Denver community.”

Developed by subject experts from the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum and produced by Imagine Exhibitions, “Drones: Is The Sky The Limit?” explores the modern phenomenon of drones, their uses throughout history, and the possibilities of the future role that drones will play in our society.

“With drones becoming such a big part of our culture, it’s essential to better understand their evolution and role in contemporary society,” Tom Zaller of Imagine Exhibitions said in the release.

“Drones: Is The Sky The Limit?” will be open daily to the public through Friday, May 8 at 7711 E. Academy Blvd., Denver.

The exhibit is included in the price of museum admission. Learn more at WingsMuseum.org/Drones.

Bringing Color to Wash Park

To keep our wonderful painters busy in the winter months, we are offering

20% December to OFF April 2020

labor on all interior jobs performed in

DENVER’S PREMIER INSTALLER OF VINYL, WOOD, AND FIBERGLASS REPLACEMENT WINDOWS! Over 30 Years’ Experience EPA Lead Safe Firm • Honest Pricing

Call us for a free, no-hassle consultation

720-295-0362 windowdoctorofcolorado.com

20

+

Ireland’s Finest Painting Co. (303) 512-8777 irelandsfinestinc.com

18 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Thousands participate in annual Womxn’s March Staff report About 10,000 people participated in this year’s Womxn’s March, which took place on Jan. 18 at Civic Center Park in downtown Denver. The event also included a community engagement workshop, live recording of a podcast and an Impact Expo in the McNichols Building at Civic Center Park. The Impact Expo featured representatives from community nonprofits, grassroots efforts and collectives that focus on serving womxn and girls, as well as art exhibits. To learn more about this year’s Womxn’s March, visit www. womxnsmarchdenver.org.

This year’s Womxn’s March took place on Jan. 18 at Civic Center Park in downtown Denver. The event included the annual march and an Impact Expo. COURTESY OF AIMEE CUTCHER

This year’s annual Womxn’s March drew a crowd of an estimated 10,000 marchers. The event took place on Jan. 18 at Civic Center Park in downtown Denver.

COURTESY OF SOPHIA INDA

Many of the 10,000 marchers participating in this year’s Womxn’s March carried peaceful protest signs. The event took place on Jan. 18 at Civic Center Park in downtown Denver.

COURTESY OF CHARLOTTE BASSIN

About 10,000 people marched in this year’s Womxn’s March, which took place on Jan. 18 at Civic Center Park in downtown Denver.

COURTESY OF DIANA ODEM

Washington Park Profile 19

February 2020

Jack Nicklaus to headline annual luncheon Jewish Family Service of Colorado fundraiser to help those in need Staff report Jack Nicklaus, golf champion, golf course designer, philanthropist and good-will ambassador, will headline Jewish Family Service of Colorado’s 16th annual executive luncheon.

Nicklaus will reflect on his life experiences, highlight his lifelong commitment to family and the future of our children, and share lessaons for success and how to live up to your full potential in work, life and sport.

The luncheon fundraiser is Wednesday, April 29, from noon to 1:30 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center, 650 15th St., Denver. A VIP reception for the top three sponsorship levels takes place at 11 a.m., and doors for the luncheon will open at 11:30 a.m.

Sponsorship packages start at $2,000 and are available at jewishfamilyservice.org/ luncheon or by contacting Kate Shephard at 720-248-4633 or kshephard@jewishfamilyservice.org. Tickets will go on sale March 18.

All proceeds support programs of Jewish Family Service of Colorado to help those in need navigate life’s challenges through integrated support. Founded in 1872, Jewish Family Service is a nonsectarian, nonprofit human services agency serving people of all faiths, races, ages, incomes, and abilities.

Jack Nicklaus will headline the Jewish Family Service of Colorado executive luncheon April 29.

COURTESY PHOTO

No name is more synonymous with greatness in golf - and no single person has changed the face of the sport more - than Jack Nicklaus.

In June 2018, the Golden Bear received the Lincoln Medal from the Ford’s Theatre Society, making Nicklaus the fourth person in history — and the first athlete or sportsperson — to be honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2005), the Congressional Gold Medal (2015), and now the Lincoln Medal.

Nicklaus’s competitive career spanned five decades, and his legend has been built with 120 professional tournament victories worldwide and a record 18 professional major-championship titles. He is one of only five golfers — Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, and Tiger Woods the others — who have won all four of golf’s modern majors, an achievement often referred to as the career “Grand Slam.”

Nicklaus remains the only player to have completed the career Grand Slam on both the regular and senior tours. His eight majors on the senior circuit, now called the PGA TOUR Champions, stood as a record from 1996 until 2017.

Nicklaus has been involved in the design of more than 300 courses open for play worldwide, and his business, Nicklaus Design, has more than 425 courses open for play worldwide, which are represented in 45 countries and 40 states.

Nicklaus and his wife Barbara have a long history of involvement in numerous charitable activities, from junior golf to children’s hospitals to several scholarship foundations. They are the guiding light for the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, which supports numerous pediatric health-care services in South Florida, as well as nationally, and has raised over $100 million since its inception in 2004.

Denver’s Best Thai Restaurant Westword 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019

Discover

Locally-owned boutiques are not extinct!

• Unique Gifts • Tribal & Cut Loose Clothing • Jewelry • Cosmetics • Gifts for Baby • Luxury Bath Products • Large Selection of Greeting Cards

Don’t just text! Send a card!

Be a part of what’s tangible!

Lift spirits, send a laugh, share a thought.

Touch the words, feel the message.

Erica’s! Your greeting card source! (eco-friendly, and recycled) Quilling Cards, Curly Girl, Mik Wright, & more

Just minutes away | Easy Parking | We gift wrap

3490 S. Sherman St. • 303-762-0266 (2 BLOCKS WEST OF SWEDISH HOSPITAL)

ericasboutiqueandskincare.com Open Tues-Fri/9 to 6 • Sat/9 to 4 • Closed Sun/Mon

Check us out on Instagram: ericasboutique_colorado

Featuring the Cuisine of Our Northern Thai Homeland Family Owned and Operated Since 1994

Now serving so

othing, nour

ishing, spicy

“FLU SHOT” SO

UP.

The healthie

st soup in to wn.

WITH MEAT OR MEATLESS

(OCTOBER-M

ARCH)

Delight Your Senses for Valentines Day Heart warming Lunches and Dinners.

Friday Feb. 14th

Call for reservations.

“By the time dessert came around, we were already pretty sweet on Taste of Thailand”- Kyle Wagner, Westword, 1994

2120 So. Broadway | 303-762-9112 www.tasteofthailand.net

20 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Sheriffs’ views vary on red flag law Perceived gray areas could mean enforcement will differ from county to county

POLICE DEPARTMENTS WILL ALSO ENFORCE THE ORDERS

By Elliott Wenzler ewenzler@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Two years and a day after Douglas County Sheriff ’s Deputy Zackari Parrish was fatally shot by a mentally ill man, a controversial red flag law named for him went into effect.

The state law allows a judge to temporarily order the confiscation of firearms from people deemed a threat to themselves or others. Those in favor of the measure — which became law on Jan. 1 — say it can help prevent incidents such as the one that took Parrish’s life, as well as suicides. Those opposed to the law say it infringes on Second Amendment rights and could be abused.

In the metro area and throughout Colorado, varying views have emerged, even among law enforcement leaders whose agencies could find themselves tasked with confiscating firearms under the new law.

In Douglas County, Sheriff Tony Spurlock’s ardent support of the law prompted detractors of the measure to explore the possibility of recalling him.

In Jefferson County, Sheriff Jeff Shrader, who once spoke out against the law, says he will enforce it, but will only forcefully seize firearms in very specific situations.

Sheriff Steve Reams of Weld County has said he won’t enforce the law, and in March, Sheriff Bill Elder of El Paso County released a statement saying his office would challenge the constitutionality of the bill.

The law also prompted action last year by officials in Colorado outside law enforcement.

Across the state, numerous boards of county commissioners voted to declare their terrain Second Amendment sanctuary counties, a largely symbolic move to show their disapproval of the legislation.

The law, known formally as the Zackari Parrish III Violence Prevention Act, is named for the deputy killed in the line of duty while attempting to put a mentally ill man on a 72-hour hold on Dec. 31, 2017 in Highlands Ranch.

The bill was passed during the 2019 legislative session, propelled by Democratic support and largely opposed by Republicans.

One of the biggest questions that remains is:

-Beer, Agent uisiana 80210 22-2777 u5@statefarm.com m to 5:00pm -1 for Lunch ends by appt.

SEE RED FLAG, P21

Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Shrader originally spoke out against the passing of the red flag law but now says he plans to enforce it. His office has developed a policy stating that it will only enter homes and take guns when making an arrest or bringing someone in for a 72-hour mental health hold.

ELLIOTT WENZLER

By Elliott Wenzler ewenzler@coloradocommunitymedia.com

The red flag law itself and a model policy created by the state’s unit for managing law enforcement agencies’ policies lay out the procedure for Extreme Risk Protection Orders. All law enforcement agencies were also required to adopt their own policies for the law by Jan. 1, according to the law — House Bill 19-1177.

The bill outlines two ways for an ERPO to be submitted to a judge: either by a peace officer or by a family or household member of the person thought to be a danger.

If the judge approves the order, law enforcement in the person’s jurisdiction has five days to serve the order, which calls

Putting you first made us #1.

for the person to surrender any firearms or concealed carry permits they have. The officer serving the order is also required to seize any firearms in plain sight or obtained through a search warrant.

The individual whose guns are confiscated is given the choice between giving their firearms to law enforcement for storage or allowing a federally licensed firearms dealer to store or sell the guns.

Within 14 days, the court must set a hearing to determine if that temporary order, which also prevents the individual from purchasing guns, should be extended for 364 additional days. The person in question will appear in that meeting and will either be appointed legal counsel or hire their own representation.

Extreme Risk Protection Orders will be carried out by the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction where the person in question lives.

Sheriff’s offices have the responsibility of enforcing ERPOs in unincorporated areas, such as Highlands Ranch, and municipalities that contract for their services, such as Centennial.

But for much of the metro area, the duties will belong to local police departments. The largest of these agencies, the Denver Police Department, will seek out orders when necessary and fulfill the ones handed down to them by judges, according to the department’s policy.

“DPD believes that (ERPOs) can significantly reduce the risk of suicide and harm to victims, the community and law enforcement and is committed to enforcing extreme risk protection orders,” according to the policy.

Unlike some sheriff’s offices, the department will seek a search warrant whenever an ERPO is approved by a judge, according to the policy.

The procedure, found in the department’s operations manual, outlines a chain of people who will be consulted for the order. The officer who wants to establish an ERPO will consult a domestic violence unit sergeant and an attorney from the city’s mental health unit. Then, a domestic violence prevention detective will prepare the affidavit and serve the order. A similar process will take place for citizen-initiated orders.

If a full 364-day order is issued, the person served will have one chance to try to appeal the decision and have it terminated. Once the order expires, the person who requested it can file to renew the ERPO for up to a year.

If it’s not renewed, law enforcement or the firearms dealer storing the guns must return the firearms within three days.

The law also requires that the officer serving the order include referrals to appropriate resources, including those regarding domestic violence, behavioral health and counseling. If the court grants the ERPO and determines that the person in question meets the standard of a mental health disorder, the judge is required to order treatment and evaluation as well.

Hand Crafted Designs in Silver Silver Jewelry Repair

Making you our #1 priority is what’s made State Farm #1* in auto insurance. I’m here to listen to your needs and to help life go right.

CALL ME TODAY. ®

1221 S. Pearl St. Denver

*Based on written premium as reported by SNL Financial 2014.

Between Louisiana & Buchtel

303-548-5467

1601917

Tue-Sat, 12-6:00pm or by appointment sowilollc@gmail.com sowiloartisanjewelry.com

Washington Park Profile 21

February 2020

Red Flag FROM PAGE 20

What happens when someone refuses to give up his or her guns? The answer depends on who made the request, called an Extreme Risk Protection Order, or ERPO. If the person petitioning for the ERPO is a law enforcement officer, the bill also requires filing of a search warrant request. The same is not true for a citizen-initiated order.

Under the law, those who don’t comply with an ERPO will be charged with a class 2 misdemeanor. Anyone who files a false, malicious petition for an ERPO can also be charged with a crime.

While the bill itself outlines specific protocols, sheriffs in the metro area suburbs seem to have different interpretations and opinions about the law and how to implement it.

Douglas County Spurlock, a Republican in a largely conservative county, was one of the law’s most vocal supporters — putting him in opposition with the three-member board of commissioners. The board approved a resolution denouncing the law but stopped short of declaring the county a Second Amendment sanctuary.

“That’s politics sticking its nose in where it shouldn’t be,” Spurlock said of the resolution.

After Spurlock announced his support of the measure early last year, a committee to recall the sheriff was formed. The committee continues to operate a website but hasn’t announced plans to begin the 45-day signature collection period required to take the recall to the next step.

While some opponents of the law have spoken out against it, citing the risk of violence, Spurlock couldn’t disagree more, he said.

“So are we supposed to just let them be dangerous?” he said. “The reason why we’re going in is because it’s dangerous … to avoid that just because it’s dangerous, that’s not even common sense. It’s silliness.”

When asked how the sheriff ’s office will react if someone doesn’t surrender his or her weapons under a citizen-initiated order, Spurlock said it’s impossible to know what his office will do.

“Each situation will be handled based upon its circumstances,” he said. “There will be lots of options in my experience. It’s not black and white.”

The key to enforcement will be working with the court system, county attorneys, the district attorney and mental health officials, Spurlock said.

“Every law has its nuances,” he said. “In Douglas County, we’ve got that figured out how we’re going to handle it … and I hope that the other jurisdictions follow suit.”

Under Douglas County’s policy, deputies presented with an order will conduct research and learn as much as possible about the person, Spurlock said.

They will also consult the county’s critical response team, which is trained to deal with mental health crises.

He expects to only see about one or two cases per year, he said.

Jefferson County Shrader, a Republican, openly spoke out against the law last year, saying he was concerned about the conflicts between applying a civil order using a criminal standard. He also said the law didn’t adequately address challenges with mental health.

Though he now says he will enforce the orders, his policy outlines very specific scenarios in which any kind of force will be used to confiscate guns.

Dr. Stratil and Dr. Wright

We’re STILL making it personal!

Dr. Stratil and Dr. Wright

Dr. Stratil and Dr. Wright

Its been 6 years, and The Dentists on Pearl still want to get to know you! So, come on in or call today to schedule an appointment entireon family. create plan that Its been 6 years,for andthe The Dentists Pearl stillWe wantwill to get to knowayou!

Its 6you years, Dentists Pearl stillforwant tohealthy get So, been come in or achieve calland todayThe toand schedule anon appointment the entire family. smile! will helpon maintain a completely We will create a plan that will help you achieve and maintain a completely healthy to know you!

So, come on in or call today to schedule an Its We been 6 years, andinsurances The Dentists Pearl still want to patients! getsmile! accept most andon are accepting new We accept most insurances and are accepting new patients! appointment for the entire family.

We will create a plan that to know you! So, come on in or call today to schedule an will help you achieve and maintain a completely healthy smile! appointment for the entire family. We will create a plan that We accept most insurances and are accepting new patients!

1905 SOUTH PEARL STREET South Pearl Street will help you achieve and maintain1905 a completely healthy smile!

We accept most insurances and are accepting new patients!

303.498.9207

We’ STILL making making itit personal!

We’ rereSTILL personal!

303.498.9207

1905 SOUTH PEARL STREET

thedentistsonpearl.com thedentistsonpearl.com 303.498.9207 1905 SOUTH PEARL STREET

“If it’s a civilian who has petitioned, the only role we have is to present (the ERPO) initially,” Shrader said. “It’s not an order to seize. It’s an order for the person to surrender the firearms.”

If the person doesn’t give up any guns, the deputy will report this to the court, according to Jefferson County’s policy.

According to the law, if a person declines to surrender his or her guns and a court is able to verify that they do possess them, the judge will then issue a search warrant.

But Shrader said his office will only get a search warrant to seize the guns in two situations: If there is probable cause for an arrest or if the person needs to be brought in for a 72-hour mental health hold.

“It’s a little bit silly to me to say we’re going to obtain an ERPO and not do something with the person,” he said. “Because clearly there are many other things that are potentially weapons.”

Arapahoe County When Arapahoe County Sheriff Tyler Brown first heard about the chance of a red flag law in Colorado, his biggest question was whether it is possible to confiscate someone’s guns without any danger.

Now, Brown, a Democrat, believes it can be safe, but only if it’s done slowly and methodically, he said.

“I think if it’s used appropriately, it has the potential to save lives,” he said.

The sheriff ’s office will enforce the law and will even seek out orders “when necessary,” according to its policy.

“We’re not getting (the order) in our hands, rushing straight to the door and demanding firearms,” he said. “We’re doing our research, we’re finding out what specifically caused this, we’re talking to reporting parties.”

Brown never considered not enforcing the law because of the Second Amendment, he

said.

“The First Amendment is the freedom of speech, but you can’t run into a movie theater and yell fire,” he said. “There’s responsibilities with it.”

Under Arapahoe County’s policy, a team made up of leaders from special investigations, special operations, the behavioral health response program and the assistant county attorney will work together on carrying out the orders. They will conduct a “threat assessment” and an operational plan, according to the policy.

If possible, a trained member of the crisis intervention team or the behavioral health response program will be present while the order is enforced.

Adams, Elbert counties According to the Adams County Sheriff ’s Office policy, the law will be enforced there.

Sheriff Richard Reigenborn, a Democrat, has not responded to multiple requests for an interview about the law.

The policy outlines a similar process to Jefferson County’s. The office’s procedure also states that the office will only seek search warrants when accompanied by an arrest warrant or a mental health hold.

Both counties also require the deputy serving the order to prepare a written report for the presiding judge. Neither policy gives specific directive to deputies who wish to obtain an ERPO, whereas Douglas County, Arapahoe County and Denver Police all do.

The Elbert County Sheriff ’s Office did not respond to multiple requests for an interview about its policy. In March, county commissioners approved a resolution making it a Second Amendment sanctuary county and stating it did so in support of the sheriff, Tim Norton, a Republican. The resolution also challenged the constitutionality of the red flag law.

DENVER EGRESS WINDOW Are your basement bedrooms up to code?

NO MONEY DOWN 100% FINANCING Choose one of two no-money-down options!

Option 1: NO INTEREST & NO PAYMENTS if paid in full within 6 months

Option 2: 7.99% FIXED INTEREST RATE for 84 months

Turn your downstairs into a safer, brighter basement this spring

Project Size $1,000 $5,000 $10,000 $15,000 $20,000

Monthly Payments $16.48 $82.39 $164.78 $247.17 $329.57

720.626.4221

Call today for our spring specials! www.DenverEgressWindow.com

22 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

BOOK YOUR VACATION NOW – CALL FOR LIMITED-TIME SAVINGS FROM

1,749

FROM

$

1,499

$

$

*

2,249

1,999 *

$

FREE ONBOARD CREDIT

GRAND ALASKAN CRUISE & TOUR

BEST OF HAWAII FOUR-ISLAND TOUR

12 days, departs May - September 2020 Enjoy a spectacular cruise & tour between Seattle and Alaska including 7 nights aboard Holland America Line’s ms Westerdam and 4 nights on land. You’ll cruise the Gulf of Alaska and the Inside Passage—a breathtaking sea lane teeming with marine wildlife, where you’ll pass glaciers, towering mountains, and lush forests, with stops in Ketchikan, historic Skagway, and magnificent Glacier Bay. On land, you’ll go deep into Denali National Park, tour Anchorage, and see the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

13 days, departs year-round Enjoy a fully guided 4-island Hawaiian vacation with beachfront lodging on Kauai, Maui, and the “Big Island” of Hawaii, and in Waikiki on Oahu. Includes a Pearl Harbor experience where you will see the USS Arizona Memorial.

Visit historic Lahaina, enjoy a boat cruise on the Wailua River, and authentic Hawaiian entertainment and food at our Farewell Feast. Guided throughout by our friendly Tour Directors—your local experts. Price includes 3 interisland flights.

Seattle • Juneau • Glacier Bay • Anchorage • and more

Oahu • Maui • Hawaii • Kaui

FROM

1,749

FROM

$

1,499

$

1,749

$

1,499 *

*

CRIMSON CANYONS & MESAS NATIONAL PARKS TOUR

Las Vegas • Grand Canyon • Bryce Canyon • Zion • Arches • Capitol Reef National Park • and more

10 days, departs May - September 2020 Prepare to be amazed as you experience the stunningly red rocks of 6 iconic southwestern national parks. Formed by the elements over countless centuries, these natural treasures are still grand enough to make our jaws drop. Experience several of the most popular national parks in the United States, traveling through dramatic deserts, lush forests, deep valleys, soaring mountains, and to the very edge of the South Rim of the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, one of the most famous natural wonders of the world.

$

BELLA ITALIA TOUR Rome • The Vatican City • Pisa • Florence • Orvieto • Bologna • Venice • Verona • Tuscany • and more

10 days, departs May - September 2020 See Italy’s iconic sights! Start in Rome, where you’ll see The Vatican City, gaze in awe at the Sistine Chapel, walk through St. Peter’s Square, and stop at the Trevi Fountain. Ride a funicular in ancient Orvieto and stroll through the spa town of Montecatini Terme. Visit Pisa’s leaning tower, historic Florence, the canals of Venice, and the Romeo and Juliet balcony in fair Verona, before your final stop in magnificent Milan. Enjoy exquisite food, stunning sights, fascinating history, and the company of brand-new friends.

GUIDED TOUR EXPERTS – CALL FOR YOUR FREE BROCHURE TM

Promo code N7017

CALL 1-855-402-4340

*Prices are per person based on double occupancy plus up to $299 in taxes & fees. Cruise pricing based on lowest cabin category after Instant Rebate; upgrades available. Single supplement and seasonal surcharges may apply. Add-on airfare available. Onboard Credit requires purchase of Ocean View or Balcony Cabin. For full Set Sail terms and conditions see www.ymtvacations.com/setsailoffers. Offers apply to new bookings only, made by 3/31/20. Other terms & conditions may apply. Ask your Travel Consultant for details.

Washington Park Profile 23

February 2020

Longhorn drive launches stock show

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

T

housands of people lined 17th Street in downtown Denver to watch the annual National Western Stock Show Kick-off Parade on Jan. 9. The parade highlighted Colorado’s Western heritage with equestrian organizations, horsemanship performances and the traditional longhorn cattle drive. This year’s grand marshal was Jake Jabs of American Furniture Warehouse fame.

The stock show is a Colorado tradition established in 1906. It features Western heritage, education and entertainment throughout the event, including professional rodeos, livestock exhibits and shows, fiddle competitions, artisans and vendors. The Stock Show prides itself on youth involvement, such the Westernaires, 4-H and Future Farmers of America.

The National Western Stock Show took place this year from Jan. 11-26 at the National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St. in Denver. To learn more, visit nationalwestern.com.

The iconic Longhorn cattle drive makes its way along the parade route during the Stock Show Kick-off Parade in downtown Denver on Jan. 9.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

A Denver Broncos cheerleader smiles and waves her pompoms at the crowd during the Stock Show Kick-off Parade in downtown Denver on Jan. 9.

Even the smallest ponies with the youngest riders participated in the Stock Show Kick-off Parade in downtown Denver on Jan. 9.

A miner and his burro represent Colorado’s mining history at the Stock Show Kick-off Parade in downtown Denver on Jan. 9.

24 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Delta Dental supports efforts to improve oral health Denver-area nonprofits receive funding to support projects that create accessible care Staff report Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation will provide $3.5 million in funding over three years to 31 Colorado nonprofit organizations to support projects that create accessible oral health care and advance oral health equity.

In the last two years, the foundation has awarded $6.9 million in oral health-focused grants to Colorado communities.

“We believe oral health equity means everyone can have a healthy mouth regardless of life circumstances,” Adeeb Khan, executive director of Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation, said in a news release. “Partnering on community-driven solutions is essential to achieving our mission. With a 21 percent increase in applications during our second open grantmaking cycle, there is a clear need for on-going, dedicated oral health funding in the state.”

A variety of social determinants - including race, ethnicity, income, geography, age, housing and food insecurity - impact Coloradans’ oral health and their overall well-being, the release said. The second group of Delta Dental open funding grantees have identified solutions that address oral health disparities aligned with the foundation’s focus areas: access to oral health care, prevention of tooth

GRANTS Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation has awarded grants to the following organizations and their projects in the Colorado Community Media coverage area:

Kids First Health Care (Metro Denver): Increase enrollment in dental programs at school-based health centers located in Adams City, Brighton and Thornton high schools.

Access to Care: All Coloradans have affordable, accessible and comprehensive oral health care.

Project Worthmore (Metro Denver): Support to hire a full-time dental outreach coordinator from the refugee community, a part-time biller and part-time pediatric dentist to treat young refugee patients.

Center for African American Health (Metro Denver): Create and implement an oral health outreach, screening, referral and follow-up program for Denver’s African American community.

Center for Immigrants & Immigration Services (Aurora): Support to provide education, screenings and restorative care to four African communities in partnership with the University of Colorado School of Dentistry.

Clinica Family Health (Metro Denver): Ongoing support to grow the organization’s oral health program and connect up to 18,000 patients to needed care on an annual basis.

Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy and Research Organization (Metro Denver): Develop and expand the organization’s Oral Health Equity Coalition to connect lowincome Hispanic/Latino families to affordable oral health care.

Dental Aid, Inc. (Metro Denver): Expand access to care for the under-insured and uninsured, particularly children, pregnant women and older adults, who experience barriers to accessing dental care due to cost. decay and strengthening the connection

COME OUT AND PLAY!

Servicos de La Raza (Statewide): Expand the organization’s Ventanilla de Salud program to include oral health care by hiring a part-time dentist and bilingual hygienist. The organization will also report on barriers to care among immigrant Hispanic groups to inform health policy.

Prevention of Tooth Decay: Effective programs are available for prevention and early intervention of tooth decay.

Family Star (Metro Denver): Integrate oral health education, screening and navigation to oral health services into Head Start, Early Head Start and home-based visitation programs.

Kids in Need of Dentistry (Metro Denver & Colorado Springs): Expand the number of preschools reached through KIND CARE Outreach program and reduce tooth decay in participating students by 20 percent.

Mile High Early Learning (Metro Denver): In partnership with Denver Health, provide dental screenings to children parbetween oral health and overall health.

“Whether they live in a dental health professional shortage area or cannot afford care, too many Coloradans lack access to proper oral health care,” Khan said in the release. “Our open funding partners have identified dynamic solutions to oral health challenges. We’re honored to invest in their implementation and broaden our collaboration with communities to help more people live healthier lives.”

ticipating in Head Start and Early Head Start programs and travel vouchers for transportation to dental appointments.

Reach Out and Read Colorado (Statewide): Support the purchase of oral health books and supplies for 500 children annually, living in 12 Colorado counties with limited or no dental services.

Special Olympics Colorado (Statewide): Provide dental screenings to children and adults participating in Special Olympics activities. These screenings will also train dental students on working with patients who have intellectual disabilities.

Connections to Overall Health: Oral health is included as a vital part of overall health.

Benefits in Action (Statewide): Support to connect older adults and Medicaid patients to dental homes and conduct a study on the connection of oral health and access to nutritious food.

Dominican Home Health Agency (Metro Denver): Expand access to oral health care among low-income senior patients participating in wellness clinics and in-home nursing care programs.

Tri-County Health Department (Metro Denver): Purchase of new dental equipment and chairs for the senior dental clinic and support to promote dental services to low-income seniors living in Arapahoe County.

In addition to annual open grant-making, the foundation’s portfolio features a variety of projects including the Colorado MedicalDental Integration (CO MDI) Project, policy organizations such as the Colorado Children’s Campaign and the Center for Health Progress, and partnering with other foundations to fund Cavity Free at Three, a program at the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment. Learn more at deltadentalcofoundation.org.

First responders to drive awareness for Type 1 diabetes

MUSIC LESSONS FOR ALL

MARCH 1 - APRIL 26

Registration & more info at

SWALLOWHILLMUSIC.ORG

Denver area police, sheriff, fire and EMS agencies to compete in physical challenges at Urban Air Denver Staff report Denver area first responders will compete in a series of physical challenges, including a Ninja Warrior course relay and climbing wall races, to help raise money for JDFR and Type 1 diabetes research.

The last two teams standing at the Urban Air Denver First Responder Charity Challenge on Feb. 8 will square off in a dodgeball finale at Urban Air Denver, an indoor amusement park.

More than 20,000 Coloradoans live with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease in

which insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas are mistakenly destroyed by the body’s immune system. Its causes are not fully known, and there is no cure. People with T1D are dependent on injected or pumped insulin to survive.

JDRF, the leading global organization funding T1D research with $13.9 million active research grants in Colorado, will be on site to provide education on type 1 diabetes.

The charity challenge will take place from 8-10 a.m. Feb. 8 at Urban Air Adventure Park, 9550 E. 40th Ave., Denver. The park will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Those who would like to watch their local police, fire, sheriff and EMS agencies compete are welcome; cost is a $5 donation to JDRF. To enjoy the park after 10 a.m., daily passes start at $15.99. Urban Air Denver will donate 10 percent of its proceeds that day to the local chapter of JDRF (formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).

Call 303-536-1951 or go to www.urbanairtrampolinepark.com/denver.

February 2020

A

Washington Park Profile 25

different look at plastic

Art Students League of Denver presents The Plasticene exhibit

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

When people think about plastic waste, the first few items that generally come to mind are straws, food wrappers and single-use plastic bags.

But artist Kalliopi Monoyios soon began to realize plastic is nearly everywhere in our daily lives. Dental floss, nylon, glue, acrylic paint — all have some form of plastic in their genetics.

“Plastic is ubiquitous in modern life,” Monoyios said. “Once I was tuned into plastic, I found that it’s everywhere. And it’s just as ubiquitous in art as it is in life.”

Thus, the idea for The Plasticene exhibit was born.

The Plasticene is the latest art exhibit at the Art Students League of Denver. It examines the nature of plastic and its varied presence in art.

“My intention is to broaden the conversation about plastic and plastic pollution,” said Monoyios, who curated The Plasticene exhibit.

But “I didn’t want it to be an exhibit about recycling.”

Each artist in the exhibit incorporates plastics into their work through a variety of plastic-based materials, such as acrylic paint, 3D printing and nylon fabric, for example.

Sixteen artists are featured in the exhibit, which consists of 31 original pieces of art.

Monoyios’ submission is a 10½-foot by 5½foot quilt made of flexible plastic packaging such as chip bags and granola bar wrappers.

“Plastic is something that’s kind of unappealing,” said Laurie Frick, another artist featured in the exhibit. She added that art “touches on a culture moment” and this is a time when there’s a lot of worry about plastic not being biodegradable. “It’s a really clever idea for a show.”

Frick, a data collage artist of Texas, created a collage out of thousands of handmade and hand-dyed little pieces of paper for The Plasticene.

IF YOU GO...

The Plasticene, an invitational exhibit curated by Kalliopi Monoyios, takes place Jan. 31 to March 15 at the Art Students League of Denver, 200 Grant St. It is free and open to the public. For more information on The Plasticene, visit https://asld.org/.

Additional events associated with The Plasticene are: Build a Junk Raft. Author Marcus Eriksen will speak about the adventures captured in his book, “Junk Raft: An Ocean Voyage and a Rising Tide of Activism to Fight Plastic Pollution.” This event takes place at 7 p.m. Feb. 6 at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. Tickets cost $12 for museum members and $15 for nonmembers.

Panel Talk with an Artist, Scientist and Conservator. The Art Students League of Denver will host a panel discussion featuring panelists Stephen Nash, Marcus Eriksen and Michael Readey to discuss the past, present and future of plastic. This event takes place from 6-7:30 p.m. Feb. 7 at the Art Students League of Denver. Tickets cost $5.

Artist’s Lecture and Workshop with Laurie Frick. The Plasticene exhibition artist Laurie Frick will be giving an artist’s lecture and workshop on data collecting and art. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 28-29 at the Art Students League of Denver.

DEPENDABLE and DEPENDABLE DEPENDABLE andand Taiko Chandler installs her work for The Plasticene exhibit at the Art Students League of Denver.

The exhibits runs through March 15.

KNOWLEDGEABLE agents KNOWLEDGEABLE KNOWLEDGEABLE agents agents FATHER O DEPENDABLE DEPENDABLE DEPENDABLE andandand Mus seek customers looking for seek seek customers customers looking looking for for lady. ready to j DEPENDABLE and Military tr KNOWLEDGEABLE agents KNOWLEDGEABLE KNOWLEDGEABLE agents agents real PROTECTION and long realreal PROTECTION PROTECTION andand longlong KNOWLEDGEABLE agents ADVENTU seek customers looking for seek seek customers customers looking looking for for adventuro term RELATIONSHIPS. term term RELATIONSHIPS. RELATIONSHIPS. employed seek customers looking for Especially real PROTECTION and long realreal PROTECTION PROTECTION andand longlong cats. All r real PROTECTION and long Looking fo term RELATIONSHIPS. term term RELATIONSHIPS. RELATIONSHIPS.

“What’s curious about it,” Frick said, “is I used a lot of plastic — but you’d never know it.”

She pointed to the clear liquid acrylic that preserves the paper in her artwork.

Every piece in the exhibit is interesting, unusual and beautiful, said Rachel Basye, executive director of the Art Students League of Denver.

Moreover, the exhibit juxtaposes all of the issues surrounding plastic — it’s a useful material, but it’s harmful for the environment.

“There’s been so many conversations about the environment. (The Plasticene) will get people thinking,” Basye said, “and realize we’re going to have to tackle much more than just single-use plastic bags and straws.”

COURTESY PHOTOS

term RELATIONSHIPS.

GRANOLA WORLD T dreams.M days and SINGLE, ARTSY LADY SEEKS SINGLE ARTSY GUY. If you of nowher love painting, decorating, baking and knitting, we are a Having one special person for your car, home and life insurance letsinsurance you to get camp, pit Having one Having special oneperson special for person your for car, your home car, and home life insurance and lets get youdown lets get down you to down to match.

Please be over 30 and willing to take art life classes. ® business with the rest of your life.

We’re State Farm – it’s we do, 24 / 7, 365. food, we ® what ® businessbusiness with the with rest of theyour restlife. of your We’re life.State We’re Farm State–Farm it’s what – it’s we what do, 24 / 7, we do,365.

24 / 7, 365. n

Look no further.

Look Look no further. no further.

™ GET GET TO ATO BETTER . CONTACT ™ ™AN AGENT TODAY. GET A BETTER TOSTATE A BETTER STATE .STATE CONTACT . CONTACT AN AGENT AN TODAY. AGENT TODAY.

no further.

LookLook noLook further. no further.

Having one special person forand your and lets you get Having one Having special one person special for person your for car, your home car, home lifecar, insurance andhome life insurance letslife youinsurance lets get down you get to down to down to ® ® ® ® with rest of your life.

We’re Farm – it’s what we 24 / 7, business withlife. the restlife. ofState your life.

We’re State Farm –24 / 7, it’s do, what we do, do,365.

24 / 7, 365.

365. businessbusiness with thebusiness with rest the of your rest ofthe your We’re We’re Farm State –Farm it’sState what – it’s wewhat do, we 365.

24 / 7, ™ TO .. CONTACT AN AGENT ™ STATE GET TO A A™BETTER BETTER CONTACT ANTODAY. AGENT TODAY. TODAY. GET TOGET A BETTER TO AGET BETTER STATE STATE . CONTACT . STATE CONTACT AN ™AGENT AN TODAY. AGENT BarbBarb FrankFrank Insur Agcy IncInsur Barb Insur Frank Agcy Inc Agcy Inc Barb Barb Frank,Frank, Agent Agent Barb Frank, Agent 261 S261 Downing St S St S Downing 261 Downing St Bus: Bus: 303-777-4989 303-777-4989 Bus: 303-777-4989 www.barbfrank.com Barb Frank Insur www.barbfrank.com Agcy Inc www.barbfrank.com Barb Frank, Agent

Laurie Frick is one of 16 artists featured in The Plasticene exhibit, which is available for viewing until March 15 at Art Students League of Denver, 200 Grant St. Frick will also be providing an artist’s talk and workshop tied to the event.

Lori Rickert Insur AgcyAgcy IncInsur Lori Rickert LoriInsur Rickert Inc Agcy Inc Lori Rickert, Agent LoriAgent Rickert, Agent Lori Rickert, 714 South Pearl Street 714 South Pearl Street 714 South Pearl Street Bus: Bus: 303-757-7440 Bus: 303-757-7440 303-757-7440 www.loririckert.net Lori Rickert Insur Agcy Inc www.loririckert.net www.loririckert.net Lori Rickert, Agent

Barb Frank Insur Inc Lori Rickert Lori Rickert Inc Barb Frank Barb Insur Frank Agcy Insur Inc Agcy Inc Agcy LoriInsur Rickert Agcy Insur Inc AgcyInsur Inc Agcy 261 S Downing St 714 South Pearl Street Barb Frank, Agent LoriAgent Rickert, Agent Barb Frank, BarbAgent Frank, Agent Lori Rickert, LoriAgent Rickert, Bus: 303-777-4989 Bus: 303-757-7440 ® 261 S Downing St 714 South Pearl Street statefarm.com 261 Sstatefarm.com Downing 261 Sstatefarm.com Downing St St ® 714 South 714 Pearl South Street Pearl Street ® www.barbfrank.com www.loririckert.net Bus: 303-777-4989 Bus: 303-757-7440 Bus: 303-777-4989 Bus: 303-777-4989 Bus: 303-757-7440 Bus: 303-757-7440 www.barbfrank.com www.loririckert.net www.barbfrank.com www.barbfrank.com www.loririckert.net www.loririckert.net State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company State Farm State MutualFarm Automobile Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, InsuranceState Company, Farm State Indemnity FarmCompany Indemnity Company State ®Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL 1101202.1 statefarm.com State Farm State Fire and Farm Casualty Fire andCompany, CasualtyState Company, Farm State General Farm Insurance GeneralCompany, InsuranceBloomington, Company, Bloomington, IL IL 1101202.11101202.1

26 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

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, Feb. 20.

EVENTS Free Day at the Denver Art Museum: Saturday, Feb. 1 at the Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Ave. Parkway. Enjoy our art collections and non-ticketed exhibitions without spending a dime! Free general admission tickets are available on-site starting at 10 a.m. Some special exhibitions (such as Monet) may require additional ticket. Visit denverartmuseum.org for more information.

Free Day at Denver Zoo: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2 at the Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St. Thanks to the citizens who support the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District - SCFD, we’re proud to make the Zoo accessible to our guests for seven days each year free of charge.

Visit denverzoo.org for more information.

Insiders Tour: The Hidden Language of Victorian Valentines: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4 at Molly Brown House Museum, 1340 N. Pennsylvania St. Victorians were known to have secret languages (be careful not to drop your fan!), and Valentines were no exception. Learn about the hidden language of love, as well as some of the more colorful language being used at the time while we take a look behind closed doors. Adults: $14, Seniors/Military/Teachers/ College: $13, Juniors (6-18 y.o.): $10.

Visit mollybrown.org for more information.

Launch party for new Baby Café at Jewish Community Center: 10 a.m. to noon, Wednesday, Feb. 5 at the Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St. The Grand Opening is open to the public and will offer refreshments, music for the infants, and a raffle.

The special event coincides with the week of Tu Bishvat. In the Jewish tradition, Tu Bishvat is the “new year of the trees” and it is customary to plant trees in celebration of this holiday.

Visit rmchildren.org for more information.

Opening night of the Denver Jewish Film Festival: 6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5 at the Jewish Community Center, 350 S. Dahlia St. The 24th Annual JCC Mizel Arts and Culture Center’s Denver Jewish Film Festival presented by the Sturm Family Foundation. $14 for adults, $12 for students and seniors. Visit jccdenver.org for more information.

Garden Guru Orchid Tour: 2 to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6 at the Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. Nick Snakenberg, curator of tropical collections and associate director of horticulture, shares information about the colorful, peculiar plants from habitats around the globe. $17, $15 member. Visit botanicgardens.org for more information.

Junk Raft: 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6 at the Ricketson Auditorium, Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd.

Author Marcus Eriksen will share how a grassroots movement developed into massive global coalitions demanding better waste management and corporate responsibility to make smarter products and packaging. $12 Museum member, $15 nonmember. Visit dmns.org for more information.

Salon Series: Remember the Ladies: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 6 at Molly Brown House Museum, 1340 N. Pennsylvania St. A free community conversation

event, the Salon Series at the Molly Brown House Museum connects current headlines to historical events relevant to women’s issues and social activism. Starting with a fun Women’s History 101 lesson, each Salon is themed around a topic that connects the issues of Margaret Brown’s time to those that impact our lives today.

Visit mollybrown.org for more information.

Look and Make: Early Years Tour and Workshop – Pastels: 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6 at the Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. Like any budding artist, Still learned foundational techniques as he began his career. Join a Clyfford Still Museum educator in the Early Years exhibition to see how Still applied these techniques in his early work, then move into The Making Space to try it yourself during a playful 30-minute, hands-on workshop led by the Art Students League of Denver. Materials for each workshop are included. Visit clyffordstillmuseum.org for more information.

Serenade: Of Love & Enchantment - Stratus Chamber Orchestra: Friday, Feb. 7, 2020 at 7:30 p.m.

(Immersive Seating), 1st Plymouth Congregational Church, 3501 S. Colorado Blvd., Saturday, Feb. 8 at 7:30pm (Traditional Seating), Augustana Lutheran Church, 5000 E. Alameda Ave. The Serenade is the “music of the evening.” A lover sings below his lady’s open window, a violinist spins a tune to intertwine the hearts of the couple in the restaurant. Tickets: $5 to $25. Visit augustanaarts. org/buy-tickets for more information.

Veterans Free Monthly Non-Narcotic Care Pop Up Clinic: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 8 at VFW Post 1, 841 Santa Fe Drive. Healing Warriors Program (HWP) offers free nonnarcotic 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. Visit healingwarriorsprogram. org for more information.

Ballet Ariel’s Fairy Tale Suite & Tea Party: Curtain rises at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 at Pinnacle Performing Arts Center, 1001 W. 84th Ave. Children of all ages, and their adults, will be captivated as Beauty and the Beast, Pavane of Sleeping Beauty, Tom Thumb, Empress of the Pagoda and The Fairy Garden come to life before their eyes, and the Prince wakes the Sleeping Beauty with a kiss as Ravel’s spectacular finale reaches its peak. Children $20, Adults $25.

Visit balletariel.org for more information.

STILLness: Meditation in the Galleries: 8:45 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 9 at the Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. Join us each month to clear your mind and refresh your spirit with guided meditation sessions led by experienced meditation practitioners. All are welcome; no prior experience with meditation is required. Presented in collaboration with the Zen Center of Denver and the Shambhala Meditation Center of Denver.

Visit clyffordstillmuseum.org for more information.

Music in the Galleries: Ivalas Quartet: Performances at 1 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9 at the Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. Join us for a program as exciting and eclectic as the record collection of Clyfford Still that inspires it. Experience live performances surrounded

by Still’s vibrant paintings and award-winning architecture. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon! Visit clyffordstillmuseum.org for more information.

Mystery Dinner Theatre: 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9 at Highlands Masonic Temple, 3550 Federal Boulevard. Cost: $25.00/Adults; $15/12 and under; under 3 free.

Reservations required by Feb. 3. Please make checks payable to: El Mejdel Temple No. 47. See flyer for reservation information or contact: Annette Stewart at 720-656-8630.

All the Feels: A Multisensory Tour: 3 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9 at the Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. The stunning visual experience you’ve come to expect from a Museum visit will be enhanced with evocative scents, sounds, and tactile experiences, connecting you with the artwork in new, powerful ways. Included with Museum admission (kids 17 and under are always free!) Visit

clyffordstillmuseum.org for more information.

In Search of Health and Wealth: Colorado’s Early Jewish Community: 1 to 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10 at History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway. What drew Jewish settlers to Colorado? Starting with the earliest 1859ers, the first Jewish pioneers—mostly young men of German Jewish descent—came in search of economic opportunity, religious freedom, and adventure. Visit historycolorado.org for more information.

SPARK! Gallery Tour: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11 at the Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. Presented in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado, these experiences are designed for visitors with early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia, and their care partners.

Tours present opportunities for discussion, storytelling, artmaking, and interactive engagement with Clyfford Still’s art and archives. The theme for each tour will be different, so join us each month! This month’s tour theme is architecture. Visit clyffordstillmuseum.org for more information.

One Painting at a Time: Kalyn Heffernan: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 11 at the Clyfford Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St. “People should look at the work itself,” Clyfford Still once said, “and determine its meaning to them.” Discover personal interpretations of Still’s art with a new guest each session, spending time with a single painting and going beyond your first impression. Artist Kalyn Heffernan will host the February 11 One Painting at a Time.

Visit clyffordstillmuseum.org for more information.

InSights & InPerson: Preparing Objects for Exhibit: 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Feb. 12 at History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway. Exhibiting objects takes a lot of preparation, consideration, and care.

Join Kimberly Kronwall, exhibits and loan registrar at the History Colorado Center, for an exploration of the process of preparing objects for safe and appropriate exhibition with a focus on Ouray’s chief’s blanket, now on exhibit in Written on the Land: Ute Voices, Ute History. The program requires some walking, so please wear comfortable shoes. Visit historycolorado.org for more information.

SEE THINGS TO DO, P27

Washington Park Profile 27

February 2020

Things to Do FROM PAGE 26

After Hours, History Colorado Event and Lecture: Carol Anderson: 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12 at History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway. As we enter a historic presidential election year, best-selling author Carol Anderson explores the impact of gerrymandering, poll closures, and purging voter rolls on American voting rights and democracy. $25. Members $15. Students $10. Colorado Room Visit historycolorado.org for more information.

A Valentine’s Day Roast: 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13 at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. Whether you celebrate Valentine’s or Galentine’s, spice it up with dissections, demos, and a Valentine’s Day roast. Early nerd pricing (available through February 6): $25 Museum member, $30 nonmember. Ticket price increases to $30 member, $35 nonmember on February 7. Cash Bar. Ages 21+.

Visit dmns.org for more information.

Bubble Boy: The Musical: Through Feb. 15 at the Bug Theatre, 3654 Navajo St. Jimmy Livingston was born without immunities and has spent his entire life confined inside a plastic bubble room. Enter Chloe, the girl next door, who becomes his friend and steals his heart. When she leaves town to get married, Jimmy travels cross-country in a homemade bubble suit in order to stop the wedding and finally tell her how he feels. Visit equinoxtheatredenver.com for more information.

History Colorado Event and Lecture: Day of Remembrance: 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16 at History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway. The Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League is hosting the annual Day of Remembrance event marking February 19, 1942—the day President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, clearing the way for 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry to be incarcerated in American concentration camps during World War II. Visit historycolorado.org for more information.

The Anderman Photography Lecture Series: Linda Connor: 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 19 at Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Avenue Pkwy. Linda Connor, inspired by places with rich cultural history, creates photographs that explore human connection to the spiritual world through monuments, sites, objects and ritual.

Tickets are free for Museum Friends, $15 for DAM members, $20 for nonmembers, $5 for students. Visit denverartmuseum.org for more information.

Diego Rivera in El Pedregal: Constructing a Pyramid, Found a Museum with Cristóbal Jacóme-Moreno: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 20 at Denver Art Museum, 100 W. 14th Avenue Pkwy. This presentation focuses on Diego Rivera’s appropriation of Pre-Columbian spaces and figures in one of his most renowned works: the Anahuacalli museum of archaeology (1940-1957). Free for Museum Friends, $15 for DAM members, $20 for nonmembers, and $5 for students.

Visit denverartmuseum.org for more information.

Colorado Women’s Vote Centennial Symposium: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Saturday, Feb. 22 at History Colorado Center, 1200 Broadway.

The Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League is hosting the annual Day of Remembrance event marking February 19, 1942—the day President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, clearing the way for 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry to be incarcerated in American concentration camps during World War II. Visit historycolorado. org for more information.

Bumblebee Jamboree: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. This unique musical experience is perfect for children up to age 12 and their parents or caregivers. Children are invited to dress as a favorite pollinator such as a bee, butterfly or bird and dance and sing along with the musical guests.

Adult: $13, Member Adult: $11, Child: $8, Member child: $6, free for children 2 and younger. Visit botanicgardens.org for more information.

Corsets to Congress Tea: 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 3 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22 at Molly Brown House Museum, 1340 N. Pennsylvania St. How did women in the late 1800s and early 1900s move out of their corseted existence and into the halls of Congress? We’ll introduce you to women of the suffrage movement and the battles they fought to give women equality at the ballot box. Included in the tea is a tour of the Museum--our favorite suffragist’s home! Suggested for ages 12 and up. Events take place on 3rd floor of Museum which is only accessible via stairs.

Tickets: $32. Visit mollybrown.org for more information.

Battling the Japanese Beetle: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27 at the Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. Japanese beetles are causing severe plant destruction and consternation for homeowners.

Learn about the options and products to battle this unwelcome beetle as an adult and larvae that lives in grass turf. $31, $26 member.

Visit botanicgardens.org for more information.

‘Chicago’: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27-29 and March 5-7, 2:30 p.m. March 8 at Eugenia Rawls Courtyard Theatre, King Center Auraria Campus. Metropolitan State University of Denver’s Theatre Department and Music Department proudly present “Chicago.”

Adults: $21, MSU Denver Students free with ID, MSU Denver Faculty/Staff: $11, Other students with ID $11. The box office will assess a $1 per ticket transaction fee.

Children under five are not permitted in the theatre as a courtesy to our actors and other patrons. Reservations recommended. For reservations, please call 303-556-2296.

Black History Live Tour: Becky Stone as Rosa Parks: 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 28 at Windsor Gardens Community Center, 595 S. Clinton St. Living history portrayal will give insight into how and why Rosa Parks prepared for her pivotal act of resistance. Call 303-894-7951 or go to coloradohumanities.org.

SEE THINGS TO DO, P28

F E B R U A R Y

M A R C H

Chopin Piano Concerto No. 2 featuring Fabio Bidini

Strauss A Hero’s Life conducted by Brett Mitchell

FEB 7-9 FRI-SAT 7:30 SUN 1:00

MAR 6-8 FRI-SAT 7:30 SUN 1:00

■

■

FAMILY

A Symphonic Valentine

Carnival of the Animals

FEB 14 FRI 7:30

MAR 15 SUN 2:30

SYMPHONY POPS

Legendary Women’s Voices: An Evening with Cynthia Erivo

HalfNotes

Marin Alsop Conducts MAR 20-22 FRI-SAT 7:30 SUN 1:00 ■

FEB 15 SAT 7:30

Music and Art: A Symphonic Exploration

FAMILY

Denver Young Artists Orchestra Side By Side 2020 FEB 16 SUN 2:30

MAR 27 FRI 7:30 HalfNotes

Disney’s Fantasia In Concert

MOVIE AT THE SYMPHONY

MAR 28-29 SAT 7:30 SUN 2:30 ■

Beethoven Missa Solemnis featuring the Colorado Symphony Chorus

HalfNotes Please join us for family-friendly activities 1 hour before the concert.

FEB 21-23 FRI-SAT 7:30 SUN 1:00 ■

Star Wars Return of the Jedi in Concert MOVIE AT THE SYMPHONY

These performances include FULL SCREENING OF THE FEATURE FILM!

FEB 27-29 THU-FRI 7:30 ■ SAT 2:00 © 2019 & TM LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © DISNEY. Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts in association with 20th Century Fox, Lucasfilm Ltd. and Warner/Chappell Music

presenting sponsor

HalfNotes

Presentation licensed by Disney Concert Library ©Disney

also supported by

COLORADOSYMPHONY.ORG

28 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Things to Do

cost to its clients and it is sustained by committed and compassionate volunteers. 303-839-1432. St. Paul Lutheran and Roman Catholic.

Community of Faith, 1600 Grant St. Visit grantstreetreach.org for more information.

FROM PAGE 27

The Ballet of Masculine & Feminine Divinities: 8 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28 at Mercury Cafe, 2199 California St. The Ballet of Masculine & Feminine Divinities features original performance art talent of Mercury Cafe workers that are actors, dancers, and musicians. Show tickets are $20. Call 303-2949258 for dinner reservations. Visit MercuryCafe.com.

A New Gardener Boot Camp: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 29 at Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St. Join us for a full day packed with answers to all your gardening questions. Get started on the right foot this year with our best beginner classes, carefully designed to equip you with all the tools you need to master that garden once and for all! Classes include: Garden Planning 101, Soils 101, Beginning Vegetable Gardening, Annuals and Perennials for Color in the Garden. $80, $60 member, includes lunch. Visit botanicgardens.org for more information.

Chamberlin Observatory Public Night: Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30 p.m. at Observatory Park, 2930 E. Warren Ave. All public nights start with an informative,

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Mondays 7 p.m. Through shared experience and mutual support, join a meeting to help each other to recover from the disease of food addiction. 303-775-8062 for more information. Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway.

Visit foodaddicts.org for more information.

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.Visit denverastro.org/das/public-nights.

OUTREACH Nicotine Anonymous Sundays 12:30 p.m. A fellowship of men and women helping each other

to live our lives free of nicotine.

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 915 E. Ninth Ave.Visit nicotine-anonymous.org for more information Nar-Anon Sundays 6:45 p.m. A 12-step support group for families and friends of addicts to help themselves cope. First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St.Visit nar-anon.org for more information.

Grant Street Reach Mondays 8 a.m.Providing meals at no

Home for the Heart AL-ANON Mondays - Group Al-Anon Adult Children of Alcoholics. Tuesday through Thursday - Group Al-Anon. Fridays - Group Al-Anon (Meditation the first 10 minutes). Room 114, In lower level. Trinity United Methodist Church, 1820 Broadway. Visit alanon-co.org for more information.

Moderation Management Tuesdays 6:30 p.m. Weekly meetings for problem (vs. chronic) drinkers who want to reduce their intake of alcohol. Email: denver@moderation.org. First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St. Visit moderation. org for more information.

Joy AL-ANON Tuesdays 8 p.m. Al-Anon’s Purpose is to help friends and families of alcoholics recover from the effects

of living with the problem drinking of a relative or friend. In the Roberts Building, Room 103. Saint John’s Cathedral, 1350 Washington St. Visit al-anon-co.org for more information.

LifeRing Secular Recovery Meeting Wednesdays 6 p.m.A network of people who support one another in living free of alcohol and other non-medically indicated addictive drugs. 303-875-5088. First Unitarian Church, 1400 Lafayette St. Visit liferingcolorado.org for more information.

Marijuana Anonymous Wednesdays 6:30 p.m.

A fellowship of people who share experience, strength and hope with each other that we may solve our common problem and help others to recover from marijuana addiction. Unity Church on the Hill, 1555 Race St. Visit marijuana-anonymous.org for more information.

FREE Support with Binge Eating Challenges Thursdays 6 p.m. This support group is ideal for individuals at least 18 years old who are struggling with a binge type eating disorder. All groups are free of charge. We hold confidential groups facilitated by specialists to allow you to gain the support you need. The Eating Disorder Foundation, 1901 E. 20th Ave. Visit eatingdisorderfoundation.org for more information.

Remarkably Creative “Afraid you won’t stand out when writing an offer?”

I have a lot of ideas to help you get your dream house!

Because if I were buying a home, that’s what I would want.

Cherie Wahl CRS, Broker Associate Previews and 5 Star Agent A Truly Remarkable Realtor!

303-507-5455

Enrollment open for 2020/21 Private Kindergarten and 2020 School-Age Summer Camp Celebrating 56 Years

Washington Park Profile 29

February 2020

Researchers: Some pet products touted as CBD don’t have any

By Mary Esch Associated Press

Companies have unleashed hundreds of CBD pet health products accompanied by glowing customer testimonials claiming the cannabis derivative produced calmer, quieter and pain-free dogs and cats.

But some of these products are all bark and no bite.

“You’d be astounded by the analysis we’ve seen of products on the shelf with virtually no CBD in them,” said Cornell University veterinary researcher Joseph Wakshlag, who studies therapeutic uses for the compound. “Or products with 2 milligrams per milliliter, when an effective concentration would be between 25 and 75 milligrams per milliliter.

There are plenty of folks looking to make a dollar rather than produce anything that’s really beneficial.”

Such products can make it to the shelves because the federal government has yet to establish standards for CBD that will help people know whether it works for their pets and how much to give.

Still, there’s lots of individual success stories that help fuel a $400 million market that grew more than tenfold since last year and is expected to reach $1.7 billion by 2023, according to the cannabis research firm Brightfield Group.

Amy Carter of St. Francis, Wisconsin, decided to go against her

veterinarian’s advice and try CBD oil recommended by a friend to treat Bentley, her epileptic Yorkshire terrier-Chihuahua mix. The little dog’s cluster seizures had become more frequent and frightening despite expensive medications.

“It’s amazing” Carter said. “Bentley was having multiple seizures a week.

To have only six in the past seven months is absolutely incredible.”

But some pet owners have found CBD didn’t work.

Dawn Thiele, an accountant in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, said she bought a $53 bottle of CBD oil from a local shop in hopes of calming her 2-year-old Yorkshire terrier during long car trips.

“I didn’t see a change in his behavior,” said Thiele, who nonetheless remains a believer.

“The product is good, it just didn’t work for my dog,” she said.

Compound comes from hemp Short for cannabidiol, CBD is a non-intoxicating molecule found in hemp and marijuana. Both are cannabis plants, but only marijuana has enough of the compound THC to get users high. The vast majority of CBD products come from hemp, which has less than 0.3% THC. CBD has garnered a devoted following among people who swear by it for everything from stress reduction to better sleep. Passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which eased federal legal

restrictions on hemp cultivation and transport, unleashed a stampede of companies rushing products to the market in an absence of regulations ensuring safety, quality and effectiveness.

Products for people were swiftly followed by CBD chewies, oils and sprays for pets.

“The growth is more rapid than I’ve seen for any product in 20 years in this business,” said Bill Bookout, president of the National Animal Supplement Council, an industry group whose member companies agree to testing and data-gathering requirements.

“There’s a gold rush going on now.

Probably 95 percent of the industry participants are responsible, but what’s dangerous is the fly-by-night operative that wants to cash in.”

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is developing regulations for marketing CBD products, for pets or people. This year, it has sent warning letters to 22 companies citing violations such as making claims about therapeutic uses and treatment of disease in humans or animals or marketing CBD as a dietary supplement or food ingredient.

“It’s really the Wild West out there,” said S. David Moche, founder of Applied Basic Science, a company formed to support Colorado State University’s veterinary CBD research and now selling CBD online. He advises consumers to look for a certificate of analysis from a third-party

testing laboratory to ensure they’re getting what they pay for.

“Testing and labeling is going to be a critical part of the future of this industry,” Moche said.

Wakshlag said products must be tested not only for CBD level, but also to ensure they’re free of toxic contaminants such as heavy metals and pesticides and have only trace amounts of THC, which in higher levels is toxic to dogs.

Bookout said his organization has recorded very few health incidents involving CBD and no deaths.

Still, scientific documentation of CBD’s safety and efficacy is nearly nonexistent.

That’s starting to change, however.

A small clinical trial at Colorado State University published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association in June found CBD oil reduced seizure frequency in 89 percent of the epileptic dogs that received it.

A clinical study headed by Wakshlag at Cornell, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science in July 2018, found CBD oil helped increase comfort and activity in dogs with osteoarthritis.

Study moving forward Stephanie McGrath, a Colorado State University researcher, is now doing a larger clinical trial funded by the American Kennel Club’s Canine Health Foundation.

“The results of our first epilepsy study were promising, but there was certainly not enough data to say CBD is the new miracle anti-convulsive drug in dogs,” McGrath said.

Seizures are a natural focus for research on veterinary CBD products, since Epidiolex, the only FDA-approved drug containing cannabidiol, was approved last year for treatment of two severe forms of epilepsy in children. Veterinarians are allowed to prescribe Epidiolex for pets, but it’s prohibitively expensive — upwards of $30,000 a year for an average-size dog, McGrath said.

The Kennel Club’s chief veterinary officer, Jerry Klein, said CBD is “overhyped” but promising for treatments like pain relief. He’s hopeful that the growing market will result in more money being invested in research to prove uses.

Meantime, the American Veterinary Medical Association is telling veterinarians they can share what they know about CBD with clients but shouldn’t prescribe or recommend it until the FDA gives its blessing.

“There’s no question there’s veterinary interest in these products as therapies, but we really want to see the manufacturers demonstrate that they’re effective and safe and get FDA approval so we can have confidence in the products,” said Gail Golab, chief veterinary officer for the association.

US O I C I L E D GIVE

THEY

WILL it o r They'll Love ck!

Ba y our Money

THE FAVORITE GIFT

TENDERNESS & FLAVOR ARE JUST THE BEGINNING

Share hand-crafted filet mignon naturally aged to perfection, plus a full menu of family favorites… give the Omaha Steaks experience this year!

$218.92* separately

COMBO PRICE

$

6999

78 OmahaSteaks.com/love 4LBV The Favorite Gift 5910

9.6525 Order Now 1.833.29 Ask for

4 (6 oz.) Filet Mignons 4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 4 (2.8 oz.) Potatoes au Gratin 4 (4 oz.) Caramel Apple Tartlets Signature Seasoning Packet

|

+ 4 FREE BURGERS!

16 MAIN COURSES + SIDES & DESSERT

*Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Limit 2. Free burgers will be sent to each shipping address that includes (59104). Standard S&H added per address. Not valid with other offers.

Expires 2/29/20. All purchases subject to Omaha Steaks, Inc. Terms of Use & Privacy Policy: omahasteaks.com/terms-of-useOSI and omahasteaks .com/info/privacy-policy or call 1-800-228-9872. Photos exemplary of product advertised. 19M1110-1

30 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

CALL KAREN TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! 303-566-4091 ANNOUNCEMENTS

MISC. NOTICES Run a 25 word ad for $27 a month Call Karen 303-566-4091 or email kearhart@ coloradocommunitymedia.com

FARM & AGRICULTURE

FARM PRODUCTS & PRODUCE Grain Finished Buffalo

Service Directory STORAGE/WAREHOUSE

CARPENTRY

HANDYMAN

MOVING/STORAGE

GARAGE SPACES FOR RENT UNIVERSITY & EVANS 9’x19’, $150/MO. Call 303-948-1717 or Paul, 720-331-3611.

R.M. DESIGN/CONSTRUCTION Pro Master Builder, Nationally Known Craftsman. Specialist in historical preservation of older and historic homes.

All Phases of Construction, Design.

Structural, Woodwork, Windows, Door Restoration. No Job Too Small. Randall 303-646-3461. rmdesignconst.com.

HOME REPAIRS & REMODELING Household repairs, remodeling projects, drywall, floor & wall tile, interior trim, plumbing repairs, vinyl installation, locks, caulking, cabinets, countertops, bathroom remodels, basements, new faucets, garbage disposals, wall patching, texturing, interior painting & much more! Top quality. Reasonable rates. Call Mike at 303-5872610.

GATE CITY MOVING Local home & office moving. We’re competent, fast, and in the neighborhood. Rates: $108/hr., 2 men and moving van. Inquire about statewide moves. 306 Washington St. 303-7448692.

TRANSPORTATION

WANTED

Cash for all Vehicles!

Cars, Trucks, Vans, SUV’s Any condition • Running or not No title OK • Free towing

(303)741-0762

quartered, halves and whole

719-771-8742

Cell: (303)918-2185 for texting

Bestcashforcarsco.com

MERCHANDISE SERVICES WANTED TO BUY

ADULT CARE

WANT TO PURCHASE Minerals and other oil/gas interests.

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

REAL ESTATE

Absolute Expert Care

Meeting your Non-Medical care services These encompass: • Personal Hygiene, Bathing and Dressing • Medication Reminders • Erands and Laundry • Meal(s) Preparation / Light Housekeeping Licensed & Insured • We are now BBB members 303-340-3390 • absoluteexpertcare@gmail.com We are one of Denver’s Oldest: Established 1986

RENTALS

CARPENTRY

OFFICE RENT/LEASE

HOME RENOVATION EXPERTS New framing, remodel, kitchens, bathrooms, drywall repair, decks, patios, fences. Free estimates. Reasonable rates. JDB Enterprises. Call Dale, 303748-7202.

OFFICE FOR LEASE

LIVING SPACE Transform your space Educated Carpenter/Craftsman

900 E. LOUISIANA AVE

813 Square Feet. On I-25 and Light Rail Wash Park-South Pearl. Ample parking.

Call Jim 303-722-2525 JDeSena@de-sena.com

Specializing in everything from woodwork and trim to Historic Restoration; Cabinet Installation and General Lite Construction, deck & deck repair. 30+ years’ experience.

References and Photos available

Larry 970-712-9767

CLEANING TOO BUSY ...

TO MAKE YOUR HOUSE SPARKLE? Call Bob: 303-960-8100.

Thorough and dependable.

Detail-oriented. References available.

Established in 1989, Bonded & Insured.

DRYWALL Stucco/Plastering

THE WALL REBUILDER Cracks? Holes? Ugly texture? We fix any kind of damage in any age home.

Plaster (and Drywall) Repair/Remodel www.wallrebuilder.com Laura and Dan Pino 303-698-1057 Free Estimates.

WALL & CEILING REPAIRS Skimming, patching, drywall finishing & texture, ceiling & wall repair due to water damage. Call Tom, 720-5307586.

ELECTRICIANS Licensed and Insured.

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

Call (720) 925-1241 FLOORING HARDWOOD FLOORS Hardwood Floor - Refinishing, Installation, Wood Floor Repairs OWNER OPERATED Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Windows/Doors, Deck repairs Glass Block Walls/Windows 720-434-8922

Local Focus. More News.

SOWILO ARTISAN JEWELRY Hand crafted designs in silver. Custom design, silver jewelry restoration and repair. 1221 S. Pearl St. 303-548-5467.

Tuesday - Saturday 12:00pm-6:00pm. sowilollc@gmail.com.

LAWN/GARDEN SERVICES

New/Remodel/Repair 10% Discount for Seniors Rob 720-413-5392 grandlake15@yahoo.com

B&W Electric, LLC

JEWELRY

CLEAN-UPS/ YARD MAINTENANCE/ SNOW REMOVAL Hauling and yard clean-up. Longtime Baker neighborhood resident; 30 yrs. exp. Insured, references. Free estimates. Call Lou R. Varlaro, 303-8681539.

GREENCREST LANDSCAPING Specializing in lawn removal and resodding. No job too small. Call Bill at 303-722-5923 LANDSCAPING We offer design, installation and maintenance. Specializing in residential landscapes. The Green Fuse offers a full spectrum of services provided by a landscape architect and master gardener. Advanced knowledge of Colorado plant material and xeriscaping. Call 303-507-4772 for free estimate. Visit: greenfuselandscape.com.

PROFESSIONAL OUTDOOR SERVICES Evergreens, shrubs & trees; planted, trimmed, removed. Aeration; sprinkler repair; Gardens; natural rock or block walls; Sod & rock installed/removed; Fence repair. Snow Removal! Lic. & Ins. Dick, 303-783-9000.

ROSS TREE COMPANY 40 years of caring for trees in the Washington Park neighborhood. Pruning, planting, large tree removal, deep root watering, fertilizing and insect control. 303-871-9121 www.rosstree.net

ORGANIZING SERVICES Let Declutter Colorado help you decide what to keep,sell,donate and junk.

Organize, reduce and repurpose clutter today!

Free one hour consultation!

Call Kim 303-828-6071/ kim@declutter-Colorado.com

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER

Do you want to “love” your living spaces?

Wow! Organized! will help you de-clutter and organize your home or home office.

Free consultation. Call Claudia Winkler 720.273.5693, Claudia@WowOrganized.com, www.WowOrganized.com

PAINTING

BAUER PRO-PAINTING EST. 1996 We use only the highest quality materials from prep to paint. Drywall, plaster repair, replace damaged wood. A+ rating with BBB. Insured. 303-733-2870 or bauerpropainting@gmail.com.

Since 1993. Denver’s residential paint specialists.

Interior/Exterior. Neat, conscientious craftsmanship by polite, respectful, honest and fully insured crew.

Impeccable references.

Call or Text John at 720-849-3921

PLUMBING

MR. PLUMBER Licensed Master Plumber of 28 yrs.

Top Quality work & personalized service at reasonable prices! Call Jeff 303-523-6652. Credit cards OK. MrPlumberDenver.com

VAIL PLUMBING & HEATING The Older Home Specialist. Service: repair & remodeling; gas logs. Hot Water Heat. Quality work. Licensed, insured, guaranteed. MC/VISA accepted. 303-329-6042.

ColoradoCommunityMedia.com

17 newspapers. 20 websites. Connecting YOU to your LOCAL community.

Buy Local!

Washington Park Profile 31

February 2020

King of Rock Flamenco makes Denver home El Javi kicks off 2020 with new single, year of live performances

By Clarke Reader Special to Colorado Community Media

T

he traveling, rootless life of gypsies doesn’t appeal to everybody, but for guitarist Javier Gutierrez, better known as El Javi, embracing life on the road led not only to self-discovery but confirmed that making music is his purest form of expression.

“In 2011 I was living in Los Angeles and I decided to put everything in storage and traveled Europe and Mexico, as a way to prove to myself if my music is something audiences would like,” El Javi said. “I was just traveling with my guitar and playing. It’s the way I express myself, and when I don’t play it drives me crazy.”

El Javi — “The King of Rock Flamenco” — just released his new single, “The Last Goodbye,” and its accompanying video, which is the first taste of the final piece of “A Gypsy Journey” trilogy, entitled “Samahdi.”

He also kicked off a year full of touring with a performance at Swallow Hill’s Daniels Hall on Jan. 24.

We spoke to the 39-year-old musician — who has called southeast Denver home since 2015 — about completing his trilogy of EPs, his musical journey and the Denver scene.

The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

Tell me about the development of your music.

I’m originally from Mexico City, and moved to Denver five years ago from Los Angeles, which is where I initiated my music career. The El Javi project started in 2006 with my first album, “Gypsy Muse,” and since then I’ve worked on developing my sound.

I started as a rocker, but then discovered traditional flamenco sounds, and now I think of what I do as progressive fusion.

Flamenco guitar is a part of my sound, but I also experiment with whole different styles — my new single has a folk sound, which I think is a Colorado influence — while keeping the flamenco and progressive rock elements.

What is your writing process like?

I’m very autobiographical in my writing, and regarding “A Gypsy Journey,” that is a

project I’ve been developing for the last five years. The trilogy reflects my life in Denver and my development as a human being. It’s kind of a spiritual practice, because for me writing music is a form of healing.

My music is instrumental, so the writing process takes a little longer since there’s no verse-chorus-verse framework. Instead I’m using a sonic experience to convey my story.

Why does your music have no vocals?

Since I was a teenager and started playing the guitar, I wanted that to be the main way I express myself. I want to make the guitar sing and be the main character, especially since most music is just the backing track for the vocalist. I believe music can be the message.

I also find it’s really nice in my travels because there’s no language barrier to overcome.

Tell me about making “A Gypsy Journey.”

For this last EP, I decided to release a single every couple of months, instead of waiting until the whole thing is finished for people to hear it. I worked with percussionist Jordi Marín a lot on the album — we’ve been working together for seven years, and he’s really my right-hand guy. I come in with ideas, forms and melodies, and we work together to produce the songs with others, depending on the sound we want.

We have several studios we use on the album — a home studio where we rehearse and do the initial version, we do the drums in Evergreen’s The Spot Studios and do guitar work in Los Angeles. Jordi and I are the core and we worked with pedal steel player Tony Ortega and bass player Sam Lafalce.

The first “Gypsy Journey” EP was released in 2015, the second in 2017. Hopefully this one will be out by the end of year. We want to make sure everything on it sounds great.

Tell me about performing live and your tour?

I’ve been working on creating a really visual show — I’ve been collaborating with dancers and animators to create visuals my for live shows. The main part of the (Swallow Hill) show was to launch my new single and video, and I was able to work with Flamenco dancer Sonia Burns.

We’re heading out to Mexico to tour and in March, we’ll be going to California. Hopefully we’ll be going to Spain in the beginning of the summer. We’ll definitely be playing around Denver frequently as well. (El Javi will be playing a free show at the Broomfield Amphitheater, Three Community Park Road, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5).

Javier Gutierrez, better known as El Javi, is a guitarist of southeast Denver who uses his music as a form of expression. Dubbed “The King of Rock Flamenco,” El Javi kicked off a year-long international tour with a concert at Swallow Hill’s Daniels Hall on Jan. 24.

COURTESY OF MARC MARIN

Live shows can be the most impactful experience, and I hope audiences come away inspired. Being in the studio is a whole different monster, because there it’s all about collaborations and who can come in and build the song more. But every time we play live, it’s an interpretation, and can never be repeated.

What makes Denver’s music scene special?

Denver is almost an empty canvas — it’s not saturated like in LA. The people here are very receptive and like to hear new things.

The city is in its infant stages and still finding itself, and for us musicians, that makes it a great place to be right now. As we’re growing and experimenting, so is the city.

El Javi’s music can be found on streaming platforms, and for tour information and more, visit www.eljavi.com.

Schumacher Accounting & Tax Service •Tax Preparation •Bookkeeping •Financial Statements

1895 So. Pearl St. Denver, CO 80210 303-777-5535 FAX: 303-777-6350 www.shoetax.com

SIXTH AVENUE BEAUTY SALON Catering to “Senior Citizens” STILL OFFERING THE SAME GREAT FULL SERVICE & STYLISTS (Manicurists too)

Convenient Free & Handicapped Parking FIRST TIME CUSTOMERS

20% OFF ANY SERVICE

925 S. Niagara St., #430 303-777-5341 Call for an appointment

GATE CITY MOVING SINCE 1976

• Family Owned & Operated • Reasonable Rates • Local & Throughout Colorado

306 Washinton 303-744-8692

32 Washington Park Profile

February 2020

Skills and deliciousness go hand-in-hand with cookie sales Girl Scouts will be selling cookies Feb. 2-March 8

By Christy Steadman

csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Robin Morris, a Girl Scout troop leader and mom, loves what the annual cookie sales does for the girls.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity,” Morris said, “because they learn skills that they will take with them through adulthood.”

It begins with setting reasonable sales goals and time management that’s accomplishable within their other commitments such as family and school. It then proceeds to learning business ethics, money management and people/communication skills during the approximate month of sales.

Finally, learned skills circle back to decision-making such as how the girls will use their cookie sales revenue.

“That’s a lot of responsibility for a 10-year-old,” Morris said. But “cookie sales — and Girl Scouts in general — teaches those skills in age-appropriate ways. And they (the girls) will build on those skills each year. It’s amazing to watch.”

Girl Scout cookie sales began on

Bianca Morris, 10, stands with a delivery of Girl Scout cookies. She and the other girls in her troop will be spending a third of this year’s revenue on a fun day out, saving a third of it for a future troop trip and investing a third of it to go toward their Bronze project, which will benefit the community.

COURTESY PHOTO Feb. 2 and will continue through March 8.

Individual troops get to decide among themselves how they will use their cookie money revenue.

The girls in Morris’ troop — Girl Scout Troop 65698, which includes the Hilltop and Lowery neighborhoods in Denver — will be working toward what they call the Three S’s — Spend, Save and Share.

Bianca Morris, Robin Morris’ daughter and one of four members in Troop 65698 explained: Spend will be on a to-be-determined fun day this spring or summer that

could include Elitch’s, bowling, camping or roller skating, for example. Save means the money will be put toward a troop trip to Costa Rica, to take place in another two years when all the girls turn 12. And share will be the portion of proceeds that will fund the girls’ Bronze project this fall. The Bronze project is still in planning phase, but one idea in the mix is to fund a clothing drive for a homeless shelter.

“Girl Scouts look forward to cookie sales every year because you get excited to work toward your

goal,” Bianca Morris said, who has been a Girl Scout for three years.

“And it’s (selling cookies) is something you can do with your troop or alone.”

Bianca Morris particularly likes booth sales, such as those set up outside of local grocery stores, because that’s when she generally sells the most cookies, she said.

“It’s important not to be shy when selling cookies,” Bianca Morris said.

Robin Morris added that although the girls do learn sales pitches and how to approach potential customers in a friendly manner, they also learn how to take rejection in stride.

“A `no, thank you,’ is part of the process,” Robin Morris said.

Bianca Morris is also looking forward to the new cookie this year. Lemon-Ups is a crispy lemon cookie, baked with inspirational messages submitted by actual Girl Scouts.

Lemon-Ups are replacing Savannah Smiles, and joins Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, Trefoils, DosSi-Dos, S’mores and the gluten-free Toffee-tastic.

“All Girl Scout cookies are delicious,” Bianca Morris said. “But people always want to try the new cookie.”

She added that she doesn’t blame them.

“They sound pretty good.”

MORE INFORMATION Girl Scouts will be going door-to-door, but consumers can also purchase cookies from booths set up in front of major retail and grocery stores. The Cookie Locator, available online or mobile app, can help people find local booth sales locations. Sales can also be done online through the Digital Cookie, but to purchase cookies online, you need an invite to shop on a Girl Scout’s personal Digital Cookie website.

This year’s selection of cookies is Thin Mints, Samoas, Tagalongs, Trefoils, Do-Si-Dos, Lemon Ups, S’mores and Toffee-tastics.

All Girl Scout cookies contain zero grams of trans fat per serving, Thin Mints are vegan, Do-Si-Dos and Trefoils have no hydrogenated oils and Toffeetastics are gluten free. More information about Girl Scout Cookie ingredients can be found at www.littlebrownie.com.

Consumers can also purchase a package of cookies to donate to the individual Girl Scouts troops’ hometown hero. Each Girl Scout troop chooses a hometown hero — any local nonprofit organization or uniformed personnel — to honor by donating packages of Girl Scout cookies.

The troops choose their hometown hero prior to cookie sales beginning, so to participate, remember to ask about the Hometown Heroes/Gift of Caring program.

Visit www.girlscoutsofcolorado.org for more information.

WASHINGTON PARK ACTIVE/SOLD 2009 - 2019

THE GOOD NEWS JUST KEEPS ON COMING

2019 is the 8th year in a row of a Seller’s market in Washington Park. That truly is remarkable. I get many questions about when the market will change. My crystal ball is a bit fuzzy but as long as inventory remains low and people keep moving to Denver, it will continue to be a Seller’s market. There are no signs of any changes soon.

Buying and selling a home in this market is something that takes knowledge and experience. The 39+ years of experience at The Bridge Team means the highest possible price for the least amount of hassles for Sellers and the best possible chance of winning a house for Buyers.

Your call to The Bridge Team at 303-331-4562 will be warmly received.

Shelley Bridge - The Bridge Team

Broker/Co-Owner 303.981.4560 cell | 303.331.4562 direct shelley@denverhomeshere.com www.DenverHomesHere.com Become our fan: facebook.com/theBridgeTeam

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2018

2017

2019

200

# OF HOMES

We also have a bridge loan program available that has allowed some of our clients to pull equity out of their present home and move forward with a noncontingent purchase of a new home without needing to sell their current home first. During the downturn, bridge loans went away. They have returned and are available for most clients through our lender. As these loans have become more available, Sellers have been less worried about their house selling before they have a place to go.

2009

150

100

50

0 JA N M 09 A M R JUAY SEL Y N PT JA OV N M 10 A M R JUAY SEL Y N PT JA OV N M 11 A M R JUAY SEL Y N PT JA OV N M 12 A M R AY JU SE L N PT JA OV N M 13 A M R AY JU SE L N PT JA OV N M 14 A M R AY JU SE L N PT JA OV N M 15 A M R AY J SEUL N PT JA OV N M 16 A M R AY J SEUL N PT JA OV N M 17 A M R AY J SEUL N PT JA OV N M 18 A M R AY J SEUL N PT JA OV N M 19 A M R AY J SEUL N PT O V

Once again, the chart tells the story. The small increase in supply has resulted in increased sales. In fact, in June of 2019, we broke a record for the most Washington Park sales in any month since I have been tracking. In my opinion, the reason for the increase is that potential buyers have been attracted to the interest rates that are now below 4% and are more optimistic about being able to find something to buy.

WASHINGTON PARK ACTIVE/SOLD 2009 - 2019 250

MONTH

Active

Sold

WASHINGTON PARK SOLD MARKET REPORT SUMMARY JANUARY-DECEMBER 2019 SALES PRICE 0 -199,999 200 - 299,999 300 - 399,999 400 - 499,999 500 - 599,999 600 - 699 999 700 - 799,999 800 - 899,999 900 - 999,999 1 mil. - 1.99 mil. over 2 million TOTAL SOLD AVG PRICE/SQ FT HIGH PRICE/SQ FT LOW PRICE/SQ FT % CHANGE

East Side UNIVERSITY (West side only) 2019 2018 2017 2016 2019

2 1 2 1

6 420.8 565.0 231.5 N/A MEDIAN PRICE/SQ FT 442.8 % CHANGE N/A MEDIAN SALE PRICE ###### % CHANGE N/A

6 541.6 602.8 481.8 30% 541.8 48%

4 416.8 585.8 298.2 0% 366.5 -4%

1 3 3 6 13 25 14 63 21 149 591.4 1013.9 240.7 0% 589.6 1%

3%

5%

12%

1 4 1

0 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

N/A

1 3

West Side YORK-MARION 2018

2017

DOWNING-OGDEN 2016

3 9 25 22 15 57 17 148 593.2 1006.4 328.0 10% 581.8 9%

2 5 19 25 21 14 48 10 144 540.6 795.1 233.9 4% 535.2 4%

4 6 12 27 28 20 8 55 12 172 522.2 1000.9 282.8 5% 515.1 5%

12%

17%

5%

2019

2018

2017

EMERSON-SHERMAN

2016

2019

2018

LINCOLN

2016 2 12 18 47 42 34 18 6 2

2019

7 13 16 36 26 17 17 5 5

2017 1 3 11 25 39 37 15 13 3 3

2017

2016

6 2 2 2

1 5 7 1 2

4 3 6 2

1 9 7 8 7 2 8

1 5 13 14 7 6 4 5

66 528.7 889.0 305.6 0% 508.8 4%

1 1 4 9 6 7 5 7 3 43 529.8 797.9 343.9 9% 490.6 4%

4 11 15 34 39 29 18 5 5

42 486.7 663.2 294.5 7% 470.6 5%

55 455.2 810.2 234.6 4% 448.4 8%

160 476.3 838.7 250.3 0% 454.6 -2%

142 474.2 792.7 224.7 9% 463.2 9%

150 436.0 705.6 229.0 9% 425.3 10%

181 399.9 737.2 184.4 7% 387.9 4%

6 365.7 468.2 230.0 2% 366.7 9%

12 357.6 590.9 270.1 0% 335.6 -7%

17 356.5 467.6 257.5 0% 362.3 5%

15 355.0 488.5 249.2 21% 344.4 16%

-9%

8%

16%

0%

6%

4%

10%

5%

6%

-4%

6%

4%

1 1 10 14 11 6 9 14

1 2 1 1 1

2018

1

542,450 528,500 1,129,000 1,008,625 897,500 850,000 750,000 825,000 764,500 660,000 631,750 597,450 575,000 522,750 435,500 411,367 430,000 404,500

Based on information from Metrolist, Inc on January 11, 2020. Note: This representation is based in whole or in part on content supplied by Metrolist, Inc. Metrolist, Inc does not guarantee nor is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Content maintained by Metrolist, Inc. may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Prepared by The Bridge Team - 303-331-4589