Washington Park Profile 0321

WashParkProfile.com

MARCH 2021

Digital and print community newspaper founded in 1978.

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A BRAVE SPACE Athena Project launches Artists Sound Off Series

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STUDENT EXPERIENCE UNFOLDS New buildings at University of Denver foster community, connections, collaborations

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ELEVATING ALUMNI VOICES Denver Public Schools alumni organize to make a difference for future students

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BRINGING MUSIC TO LIFE Nonprofit hosts annual musical instrument drive March 8-21

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2 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

Business Matters Christy Steadman | csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com Business Matters is a monthly column featuring business news in the Life on Capitol Hill and Washington Park Profile coverage areas, which is roughly central and central-south Denver.

The Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE) approved Denver to participate in the 5 Star Certification Program in January, and businesses were permitted to apply for pre-certification in early February.

What the Denver 5 Star Certification Program does is allow for businesses that are certified by the program to operate with expanded capacity. To learn more about the program, visit https:// www.denver.org/5-star.

As businesses continue to weather the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Colorado Community Media urges you to reach out to your favorite local businesses to find out their reopening status, or to check if they are operating differently upon reopening.

If you are a local business that would like to announce any updates to your operations, email Christy Steadman at csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia. com.

NEW OPENINGS 3 Kilts Tavern After a number of months of delay because of COVID-19, 3 Kilts Tavern, an Irish restaurant, has opened in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood.

3 Kilts Tavern originally opened on 16th Street Mall in June and operated there for a few months. In late September, the restaurant announced on its Facebook page that it would be moving to Capitol Hill, 1076 N Ogden St. Its ribbon cutting took place on Feb. 5.

The restaurant is open for limited dine-in and takeout. Learn more at www.3kiltstavern.com.

Five Points Atlas A new newspaper called the Five Points Atlas launched in February to serve the Five Points neighborhood and Denver’s Black community.

“Often times the stories that matter to these communities are overlooked or written in a way that leaves a lot to be desired. … Five Points is still the center of the Black community in Colorado and the heart of Denver. We hope to write about what is overlooked and desired,” states the newspaper’s website.

The Five Points Atlas is the brainchild of Kwon Atlas, a Denver native who currently serves as a communications analyst in Denver Mayor Michael Hancock’s office, according to Colorado Local News & Media, which is a weekly newsletter that covers Colorado’s media scene.

The Five Points Atlas is a monthly publication and is available in print — delivered free to Five Points residents — and online. The newspaper features business, arts-and-culture, political and general interest news stories. The first edition had a distribution of about 17,000 copies, states Colorado Local News & Media.

To learn more or read the Five Points Atlas, visit www.fivepointsatlas.com.

Perdida A restaurant specializing in coastal Mexican cuisine has opened at 1066 S. Gaylord St. in Denver’s Washington Park neighborhood.

Called Perdida, it is a concept of the Gastamo Group, of which other Denver restaurants include Park Burger, Homegrown Tap & Dough and Birdcall.

Perdida’s website names Chef Philippe Failyau as the mastermind of the menu, which includes “fresh Baja cuisine with a focus on wood-fired dishes,” states the website.

To learn more about Perdida, visit www.perdidakitchen.com.

Unofficial Translation The restaurateurs behind the Speer neighborhood’s Beatrice & Woodsley; Capitol Hill’s Bang Up To The Elephant!; Two-fisted Mario’s Pizza and Double Daughter’s Salotto, both located at Market Center in LoDo, have opened a new delivery-only venture called Unofficial Translation.

Unofficial Translation opened on New Year’s Eve, and for its winter and first installment, which is being called Bad Luck Dragon vs. Bunny Chow, Unofficial Translation is offering a vegan and plant-based menu inspired by southernregion African and American-Asian cuisines.

“We’ve taken advantage of these unusual circumstances to explore some of the cuisines and cultures we’ve been so eager to immerse ourselves in — culinary, musically and technique-wise,” said co-owner Kevin Delk. “We’ve created a mash-up that celebrates the

CLOSINGS Mulberries Cake Shop Mulberries Cake Shop closed its East Colfax location at the end of February.

However, the bakery will continue to operate from its Brighton location at 1020 E. Bridge St. This news originally appeared in the Colfax Ave Business Improvement District newsletter.

To learn more about Mulberries Cake Shop, visit www.mulberriescakes.com.

Quixote’s True Blue According to a Feb. 4 article in the Westword, Quixote’s True Blue, 2014 S. University Blvd., is closing.

COVID-19 restrictions is a reason for the closure, according to Westword.

The South University Boulevard location, which is just northeast of the University of Denver campus, is club owner Jay Bianchi’s sixth incarnation of the Grateful Dead-themed live music venue called Quixote’s True Blue. It opened in 2018. The first Quixote’s opened in 1996 on East Colfax in Aurora, and the venue made multiple moves to different locations in the city of Denver before opening at the location near DU. A bar called the Gravel Pit is expected to open in the location. A website is set up for the Gravel Pit, but there are no details on what type of venue it will be.

The Westword article states that “while the sixth incarnation of Quixote’s is gone, Bianchi is not going to close the chapter on the name just yet. He says he’ll eventually look for a new home for Quixote’s, but he’s not rushing into anything right now.”

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inspiring dishes and approaches from our favorite American-Asian take-out haunts, but then crashed them into our epicurean favorites from southernregion African nations.”

Delk added that a new menu — also entirely plant-based and inspired by regions from around the world — is being worked on for the second installment, which is expected to launch later in 2021.

Unofficial Translation is operating out of, and offering delivery from, Beatrice & Woodsley, 38 S. Broadway; and Bang Up To The Elephant!, 1310 N. Pearl St. To learn more about Unofficial Translation, visit http://unofficialtranslation. com/.

(Sherri Somerville)

CHANGES/OTHER Sowilo Artisan Jewelry Sowilo Artisan Jewelry is moving its showroom in the Platt Park neighborhood to a new location at 999 Vallejo St. It will be in Unit 3, Studio 4K of Prism, which is a large warehouse that hosts more than 60 artist studios. Prism is located just west of the Santa Fe Arts District in Denver’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

Sowilo Artisan Jewelry offers handcrafted silver jewelry, custom design, silver jewelry repair and stone cutting.

In addition to moving the showroom to Prism, Sowilo Artisan Jewelry has consolidated its production studio from two locations to a single space offsite, according to a news release.

“Sowilo Artisan Jewelry is committed to giving you a great jewelry-buying experience,” states a news release. “We appreciate all our customers and know you will enjoy seeing artists of all mediums in our new location.”

To learn more or shop online, visit https://sowiloartisanjewelry.com.

MILESTONES Echinacea Montessori School Echinacea Montessori School, 300 Elati St. in Denver’s Baker neighborhood, celebrated its one-year anniversary in February.

Classes started on March 1 last year, but the school closed two weeks later for the COVID-19 quarantine. It re-opened for in-person learning on June 1.

Echinacea Montessori School is a member of the national, nonprofit Wildflower Network of schools. The preschool works with the Denver Preschool Program for tuition assistance.

“Echinacea Montessori opened its doors two weeks before a global pandemic changed the way we all work and learn.

We feel that our work with children is imperative, now more than ever,” said Sarah Johnson, a teacher leader at Echinacea Montessori who co-founded the school with fellow teacher leader Amanda Clarke. “As teachers, we are thankful to serve the Denver-metro community, partner with local businesses and guide children into an ever-changing world. It has been life-giving to watch the children learn, interact and show their resiliency over the past year.”

To learn more about Echinacea Montessori, visit www.echinaceamontessori.org.

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Washington Park Profile 3

March 2021

Providing the opportunity for every child

to play a musical instrument Annual Bringing Music to Life instrument drive takes place March 8-21 “Many students were grateful to have the opportunity to even share an instrument, but when Bringing Music to Life or years, students in the music allowed for each student program at the Denver Green to borrow their own instruSchool Southeast Campus in Denver’s ment to use for the year, they Virginia Vale neighborwere elated,” Harkins said. “It was hood had to share musical instru- LEARN MORE The 2021 Bringing so incredible to see students’ eyes ments because the school simply Music to Life instrudouble in size and their jaws drop did not have the inventory for ment drive takes when I told them they did not each child to have their own. place March 8-21. have to share this year, and they This meant students were The two locations could take the instrument home unable to take the musical in Denver to donate to practice.” instruments home to praca gently-used instruThe Bringing Music to Life instrutice, so they would spend ment is Kolacny Mument drive, which is a project of the extra hours after school to sic, 1900 S. BroadColorado Nonprofit Development have access to an instrument way in the Platt Center, takes gently-used musical to play.

Park neighborhood; instruments donated by the com“It felt like a tall hill to and Twist & Shout, munity and gives them to underclimb to continue providing 2508 E. Colfax Ave. funded school music programs across the best opportunities for in the Congress Park Colorado. The Bringing Music to Life my students,” said Aleaha neighborhood. instrument drive got its start years ago Harkins, music teacher at the To learn more

by Steve Blatt when he was with ColoDenver Green School Southabout the drive, visit rado Public Radio. Today, Blatt serves as east Campus. www.bringingmusicthe organization’s executive director and But for the 2020-21 school tolife.org. the drive is in its 11th annual year. year, a nonprofit program called Bringing Music to Life stepped in to help.

SEE INSTRUMENTS, P8

By Christy Steadman

csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

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Music teacher Aleaha Harkins and art teacher Pam Jackson, who both teach at Denver Green School Southeast Campus in Denver’s Virginia Vale neighborhood, pick up music instruments for student use during COURTESY PHOTO the 2020-2021 school year.

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4 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

Fostering community, connections and collaborations New buildings on University of Denver campus focus on the student experience

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Aside from earning a degree, something else of value that people generally take away from the university experience is the friendships.

“These relationships are often some of the longest-lasting,” said University of Denver Chancellor Dr. Jeremy Haefner. “There’s more to (attending) a university than just taking classes. (The) experiences are incredibly important.”

DU aspires to teach the whole student, Haefner said. That includes focusing on four dimensions that help build the student experience, he added.

The four dimensions are intellectual growth; career preparation; promote well-being, including social, emotional, physical, spiritual and financial; and exploring ethics, such as creating a culture of respect.

On campus, three new, recently constructed buildings will help build the foundation for the student experience. They are not academic buildings, rather, they are meant to foster “community, connections and collaborations,” Haefner added. “They will make these experiences far more intentional the minute they (students) step onto the campus.”

The three new buildings are the Community Commons, the Dimond Family Residential Village and the Burwell Center for Career Achievement. All three were constructed under the Denver Advantage Campus Framework Plan, which “is a longterm, flexible framework that explores ways DU can evolve over the years and decades ahead,” states DU’s website.

The building most recently completed is the Community Commons. It opened in January and boasts spacious lounges with lots of natural light, as well as outdoor patio space. It hosts the Rebecca Chopp Grand Central Market, and was designed so that all dining facilities are centrally located. The four-story building also houses student affairs services, such as a cultural center, clubs and veterans’ services.

In August last year, the Dimond Family Residential Village was the first

of the three new buildings to open. It got its name to recognize the Dimond Family Foundation. It houses first-year students and was designed in such a way that the students can develop a “deep sense of community and meaningful friendships,” Haefner said.

The Burwell Center for Career Achievement is “all about connections,” Haefner said. It “is named in honor of Barbara Burwell, the late Rod Burwell and their sons, all DU alumni,” states DU’s website. The Burwell Center is the “nexus where students engage with employers and alumni,” Haefner said.

Mo Lotif is the manager of strategic initiatives for DU’s Student Affairs & Inclusive Excellence (SAIE) department. He is also a graduate student at the Daniels College of Business at DU. Lotif recently worked with the design and construction teams for the Community Commons and the Dimond Family Residential Village as an owner’s representative.

In that role, Lotif engaged with a variety of people on the project, including architects and contractors, as well as the DU campus community that will use the new buildings.

The students underscored that having a central place to connect with their peers, faculty and staff support system was important to them, Lotif said.

“The space is the canvas within which the student experience unfolds,” Lotif said. “The human element is what makes a university campus so special.

The relationships formed transcend a student’s time here.”

DU aims to provide a sense of belonging, Haefner added, and not just for the first few months of school. The sense of belonging should last for the duration a student is attending DU, Haefner said.

Lotif agreed. The new buildings will be able to evolve with the demographics of the students, long into the future, he said. And the demographics of the university will only become more diverse as time goes on, Lotif said.

The core goal of belonging, now and into the future, is what makes these buildings relevant, he added.

“Belonging is the foundation upon which a rich student experience, both curricular and co-curricular, is built upon,” Lotif said. “For decades to come, this fact of belonging will continue to be a critical component of a transformative educational experience.”

With its spacious lounge areas, the University of Denver’s new Community Commons building is a place where students can connect with one another.

PHOTOS BY WAYNE ARMSTRONG/UNIVERSITY OF DENVER

The University of Denver’s Dimond Family Residential Village opened in August 2020 to house first-year students in a place where they can develop a “deep sense of community and meaningful friendships,” said DU Chancellor Jeremy Haefner.

Students attending the University of Denver can build connections with employers and alumni in the university’s Burwell Center for Career Achievement.

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Washington Park Profile 5

March 2021

S N M D O T K C A B S P M O T S E SU

The T. rex Experience will be on display at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. in Denver, through April 25. Along with animations, touchable bronze casts PHOTOS BY CHRIS SCHNEIDER/DENVER MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE of SUE’s bones and a multimedia light show, the exhibit features an exact cast of SUE’s 40-foot-long skeleton.

Most complete T. rex continues to share secrets

By Clarke Reader Special to Colorado Community Media

F

or many people, the Tyrannosaurus rex is the dinosaur, and it’s easy to understand why. There’s no animal today that comes close to the sheer intimidation and raw power that this Cretaceous-era dinosaur possessed. But there’s still a lot to learn about this predator.

And that’s where SUE comes in.

The T. rex known as SUE is the most complete and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus to be discovered so far. It was discovered by Sue Hendrickson — hence its nickname — in South Dakota in 1990.

More than 30 years later, it is still offering scientists all kinds of glimpses into the life and times of the “King of the Tyrant Lizards.”

And now Denver residents can enter SUE’s world and see the animal itself at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

“We had SUE in 2012, (but) it was in a different setup back then. That’s because we’re changing our views of dinosaurs all the time,” said Dr. Joe Sertich, museum curator of dinosaurs. “In 10 years, SUE could be back with a completely different setup based on new discoveries.”

SUE: The T. rex Experience — on loan from the Field Museum in Chicago — fea-

By Clarke Reader Special to Colorado Community Media

Researchers have discovered the first new partial skull of a Parasaurolophus dinosaur in 97 years. This happened during a recent dig funded by the Denver Museum of Nature & Science in northwestern New Mexico. Fossils from the region are part of the natural heritage of the Diné, or Navajo Nation, and Puebloan peoples.

The Parasaurolophus is a duck-billed

VISIT SUE SUE: The T. rex Experience will be on display at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. in Denver, through April 25.

A timed ticket for museum entry and a separate timed ticket for entry into the SUE exhibit is required.

For more information on SUE and ticketing, visit dmns.org. tures an exact cast of SUE’s skeleton, which, according to provided information, measures 40 feet from snout to tail and 13 feet tall at the hip. To help visitors get a sense of what the animal actually looked like, there is also a full-sized replica of SUE — with a sample of what it would’ve dined on. The exhibit also features animations, touchable bronze casts of SUE’s bones and a multimedia light show that provides insight into its bones.

One of the most fascinating new pieces of information is also the most visible — the gastralia, or belly ribs, that stretched across the T. rex’s abdomen and helped it to breathe. These were not part of SUE’s anatomy during its last visit and are a testament to how big discoveries are still waiting to be made.

As is so often the case, it’s the museum’s additions from its own collections that give the exhibit added depth and nuance. And when it comes to Colorado and dinosaurs, there’s a lot to say.

“The first Triceratops fossils were found in the area in 1887 in what is now the

dinosaur, recognized by the large hollow tube that grows on its head, according to information provided by the museum.

Three species of Parasaurolophus are currently recognized — ranging from the Canadian province of Alberta to New Mexico — in rocks dating between 77 and 73.5 million years old.

“This find is helping us add important elements to the story of the species and the time,” said Dr. Joe Sertich, museum curator of dinosaurs and leader of the team

One of the main attractions in the Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s SUE: The T. rex Experience exhibit is a full-sized replica of SUE to help visitors get a sense of what the dinosaur actually looked like.

Highlands neighborhood,” Sertich said.

“Focusing on SUE’s world highlights that this is very much a Denver Museum story as well. I think there’s no better exhibit for this museum than SUE.” There are more than 20 specimens from the museum featured in the exhibit, including femur and a vertebra of the only T. rex skeleton ever found in the state, part of the Triceratops found at a construction site in Highlands Ranch in 2019, the jaw from the Torosaurus that was found in Thornton in 2017 and more.

who discovered the skull. “There’s still a lot to be learned, but this time period (the Cretaceous) is a big focal point for our research.”

Sertich and the team of volunteers he was leading were integral in the process of freeing the specimen from the rock where it was discovered by Smithsonian Ecology Fellow Erin Spear, Ph.D., in 2017. Not only does the discovery highlight the importance of protecting public lands for scientific discovery, Sertich said, but emphasizes

Not only do these local connections highlight and explore what Colorado was like millions of years ago, they also emphasize how diverse species and ecosystem information paint a picture of a world in flux — both then and now.

“It has taken a long time from the early days of the dinosaur bone rush to see these animals as living, breathing creatures who were always changing,” Sertich said. “All this teaches us a lot about (how) life responded to change back then, and that has relevance to today.”

the variety of opportunities for volunteers organized by the museum.

“We’re really interested in new discoveries, particularly about dinosaur ecosystems, which we don’t know a lot about,” he said. “We post a lot of opportunities for volunteers on the museum’s portal, which provides the community a lot of ways to get involved.”

For more information on current volunteer opportunities, visit dmns.org/support/ volunteer-at-the-museum.

6 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

A digital testament to those we’ve lost

Mother, daughter create Covituary.org

heartbreaking loss — a close friend’s mother was separated from her husband in their nursing home after she got sick with COVID-19.

“When she was dying, her husband couldn’t see her, so their children took an iPad and a ladder to the second-story window of their dad’s room, so he could say goodbye via FaceTime to his wife of 60-plus years,” Megan said.

Deeply affected by this story, Sam and Megan agreed that a website to honor victims of the coronavirus would have the most impact. “CovituaryTM is a place to reconnect with family and friends and celebrate the lives of those we’ve lost,” Megan said.

Through a friend, they connected with a programmer who built the interactive site. It was also vitally important their website be translated into multiple languages.

“Because the pandemic is global, we want our site to accessible to anyone, anywhere in the world,” Megan said.

Unfortunately, most of us

by Andrea W. Doray Special to Colorado Community Media

“On one of our walks during quarantine, my mom and I talked about how sad it was that people were dying and their loved ones couldn’t memorialize them or celebrate their lives.

We decided we wanted to do something to give back to all those grieving.”

These are the words of 17-year-old Sam Shoflick. And what she and her mother Megan decided to do was develop a free website for people to create memorial pages for their loved ones “so all who have been lost to the pandemic can be commemorated in this collective space,” Sam said.

Sam and Megan live in the south Denver metro area, but their site, Covituary.org, is available around world. Megan says their inspiration actually came from a particularly

Mother-and-daughter team Megan and Sam Shoflick of Greenwood Village create covituary.org, which is a free digital memorial site that allows people to celebrate the life of a loved ones who passed away as a COURTESY PHOTO result of COVID-19.

probably know of, or have experienced, heart-wrenching tragedies like the one Megan and Sam describe — families and friends unable to share a

funeral service, a celebration of life or even a goodbye.

“This is a hard and challenging topic,” Sam said. “Losing a loved one at any time is dif-

ficult, but even more so without the support of friends, family and community. This project is our way of giving back and making a difference.”

The Blue Bench announces new executive director Megan Carvajal will help lead the Denver-metro sexual assault prevention and support center Staff report Megan Carvajal has become The Blue Bench’s new executive director.

The Blue Bench is a comprehensive sexual assault prevention and support center that serves the Denver-metro area.

The nonprofit, which was founded in 1983, strives to eliminate sexual assault incidents and diminish the impact sexual assault has on individuals and community.

Carvajal began her role as executive director on Feb. 24. She succeeds Karmen Carter, who held the position for more than nine years.

Carvajal has more than 20 years of experience “in crafting and cultivating mission-driven strategies and fostering healthy, productive teams,” states a news release. Her background includes holding leadership positions in nonprofit devel-

opment and corporate relations, and she received certification in nonprofit executive leadership from the Lilly School of Philanthropy at Indiana-Purdue/IUPUI. Carvajal has relocated from Austin, Texas, to assume her new role with The Blue Bench. She is looking “forward to sharing her lived and professional experiences with The Blue Bench as it incorporates Carvajal anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices within its work to end sexual violence,” states a

news release.

“In addition to vast experience in nonprofit operations and development, Megan brings with her a dedication to inclusive excellence and equity,” said Victoria Cunningham, chair of The Blue Bench’s board of directors, in a news release. “Her leadership will be instrumental as The Blue Bench continues to build upon our commitment to offering vital care for all survivors of sexual violence and their loved ones, and prevention education to our growing and changing community.”

To learn more about The Blue Bench, visit https://thebluebench.org.

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Washington Park Profile 7

March 2021

Amaya Jones, a student in the Culinary Arts program at Emily Griffith Technical College, starts portioning the beef and barley soup in to-go containers that would be given away on Feb. 9.

COURTESY OF SHANNON GEIS/EMILY GRIFFITH TECHNICAL COLLEGE

Emily Griffith college continues tradition of soup giveaway

MAKE IT AT HOME - BEEF BARLEY SOUP

By Christy Steadman

A

csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

ccording to the tradition’s backstory, Emily Griffith, founder of Emily Griffith Technical College at 1860 Lincoln St., and her sister, Florence, started bringing free soup for students after seeing one faint during class one evening.

“Emily (Griffith) believed that the student fainted because he was hungry,” states a news release, “and if one student was hungry, there were probably others who were, as well.”

This was sometime in the early 1900s. But the tradition of giving away free soup continues at the college. Nowadays, the free soup giveaway takes place every year in February to honor Griffith’s birthday. The soup is prepared by the students in the college’s Culinary Arts program, and the soup giveaway is extended to all members of the community, as well as the college’s students and staff.

The 2021 event took place on Feb. 9. To adhere to COVID-19 safety measures, the culinary arts students packaged their beef and barley soup in to-go containers, so the long-standing tradition could continue this year.

“We are certain,” said Chef Tim Inzano, instructor of the Culinary Arts program, in a news release, “Emily would be proud to know we have carried on her soup tradition even through the pandemic.”

INGREDIENTS: 1 ¾ cup barley 1 ¼ cup onion, diced ½ cup carrot, diced ½ cup celery, diced 2 tbsp oil or beef fat 1 1/2 lbs diced beef (inside round) or ground beef ¼ cup flour 4 quarts beef stock salt pepper INSTRUCTIONS: • Cook barley in boiling water until tender, about 45 minutes. Drain barley and set aside.

• Add the oil to a large pot on medium heat.

When hot, add the onions, carrots and celery and cook until tender.

• Add beef to the pot and start to brown.

• Add the flour to the pot in order to make brown

roux. Stir and cook until thickened.

• Slowly add in stock and stir together.

• Add barley to the pot and bring to a boil.

Reduce to a simmer and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

• Serve. Makes approximately 16 cups or 10 bowls.

— Recipe provided by Chef Tim Inzano and Emily Griffith Technical College’s Culinary Arts students.

Emily Griffith Technical College’s 2021 soup giveaway

Beth Shiplett picks up a to-go soup on Feb. 9. Shiplett, a Denver resident, heard about Emily Griffith Technical College’s free soup giveaway on Facebook, and came specifically to try the culinary arts PHOTO BY CHRISTY STEADMAN students’ soup.

100

approximate number of to-go soup containers that were given away on Feb. 9. The giveaway took place at the Main Campus, 1860 Lincoln St., and the Trades Campus, 1205 Osage St.

14

number of students in Emily Griffith’s culinary arts program, who prepared the soup.

5.5

gallons of beef barley soup was made for the giveaway. Each to-go container held 7 ounces of soup.

2

number of days it took to make the soup for the giveaway. The soup is made by scratch, including the beef stock.

20

years the free soup giveaway has taken place in honor of the late Emily Griffith’s birthday. However, Griffith, who founded the school, started the free soup tradition in the early 1900s, when she and her sister would make soup daily and serve it free-of-charge in the basement of the school to any student who wanted or needed it.

8 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

Metro State alum reaches 1,000th landing milestone

By Lt. Michelle Tucker Chief of Naval Air Training

Whether a pilot is new to the craft or a seasoned veteran with many at-sea deployments under their belt, landing a jet on an aircraft carrier is exhilarating, sometimes terrifying, and is certainly no easy task.

Capt. Tracey “PETA” Gendreau knows a

Instruments FROM PAGE 3

Being able to provide a student an instrument to take home was particularly a “lifesaver” this year, Harkins said.

“Thanks to the (Bringing Music to Life) program, students ... did not have to share and were able to practice from their own home during the COVID-19 shutdown,” Harkins said. “During the struggles of online learning, it brought so much joy to see the students with instruments at home, logging on every morning at 8 a.m., ready and excited to learn.”

The Bringing Music to Life instrument drive, which takes place March 8-21 this year, accepts nearly any type of musical instrument — particularly those used in band or orchestra. The instruments should be in gently-used condition.

However, “every instrument needs some sort of repair,” Blatt said, adding that community members who do not have an instrument to donate can contribute to getting the instruments repaired.

The repairs are an important, but costly, part of the drive, Blatt said. Beginning music students do not know the difference between

thing or two about landing on an aircraft carrier, which is called a trap, because he’s done it a time or two.

In fact, he’s done it a thousand times.

Gendreau is commodore of Training Air Wing 1 aboard Naval Air Station Meridian, Mississippi. He and his team conduct undergraduate intermediate and advanced strike pilot training for the Navy, Marine Corps and select interna-

tional partners.

Gendreau commissioned in 1997 through Officer Candidate School after graduating from Metropolitan State University of Denver in 1995 with a Bachelor of Science in professional piloting. He earned his Wings of Gold in 1999.

He has deployed in support of Operations Southern Watch and Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Op-

eration Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve. He flew operationally with the “Black Aces” of Fighter Squadron 41, commanded the “Fighting Swordsmen” of Strike Fighter Squadron 32, and served as operations officer aboard USS George H.W. Bush in addition to various shore tours.

Gendreau has accumulated more than 4,000 flight hours.

“excellent playable condition” and an instrument that is not functioning properly. If the instrument is in less-than-great condition, the student may think it’s their fault the instrument is not sounding quite right, which may cause for frustration and eventually the loss of interest in playing, Blatt said.

“So the main thing is that it (the instrument) works right,” Blatt said, “so that it rewards the efforts of the student.”

Bringing Music to Life works with the Colorado Institute of Musical Instrument Technology in Castle Rock and Boomer Music in Fort Collins to get the donated instruments repaired at a discounted rate.

In addition to doing repair work, such as putting new strings on a violin or replacing a mouthpiece on a horn, the two music shops deep clean and sanitize all the instruments, and will do some cosmetic work if needed.

Once they are ready for student use, they are distributed to the schools.

The instruments “are awarded to the schools,” Blatt said, “but as long as the student is attending that school, the kid treats the instrument as their own. Kids take pride in their instrument (and) they learn to be responsible for it.”

After that student graduates, the instrument is then handed down to another

student at the school who needs it.

Kolacny Music, 1900 S. Broadway in Denver’s Platt Park neighborhood, is one of about 15 locations throughout the state where people can donate musical instruments.

The shop has been involved since the first drive, and through the years, Debra Kolacny has heard many different backstories of the instruments being donated.

Some were purchased new by a parent for a youth who eventually outgrew it or got a new one, and others were the beloved instrument of a family member who had since passed away, Kolacny said.

Kolacny Music’s role — making it convenient for people to donate the instruments they no longer need or use — is a small part in the Bringing Music to Life drive, Kolacny said. But it’s rewarding to be involved, Kolacny said, knowing that the instruments will be going to local students who may not otherwise have access to a musical instrument.

“We’re pleased to be a part of it,” she said of the Bringing Music to Life drive. “It helps kids in our community. They (the instruments) don’t go out-of-state, and they don’t go to private schools. So the schools need them, and the kids need them. The whole process is gratifying.”

Musical instruments are expensive, so un-

derstandably, some families may be hesitant to go out and purchase a new instrument for their child when he or she first demonstrates interest in playing, said Zack Littlefield, a musician who has served as the video producer for the drive since its beginning.

But unfortunately, budgets for music and arts programs are some of the first to get cut, Littlefield said. So many students — especially those who come from families who do not have the means to either purchase new or rent an instrument — don’t get the opportunity to play, Littlefield added.

The Bringing Music to Life is one way to help take that obstacle out, he said.

Playing music “can very easily become a love for the rest of their life,” Littlefield said. “Whether they stick with it long-term or not, they’re going to get something out of it.”

Being involved with music can do some amazing things for a child’s self-confidence, Blatt said, “that goes way beyond just their music classes.”

“It takes time to learn to play an instrument (but) music is something that can last a lifetime,” Blatt said. The Bringing Music to Life drive “gives people an opportunity to give new life to an instrument, but moreover, it can change the life of a child.”

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Washington Park Profile 9

A platform to elevate alumni

Denver Public Schools alumni organize to make a difference for future students

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

A group of Denver Public Schools alumni want to make a difference in the education that future students of the district receive.

“We want to help people dream bigger,” said TeRay Esquibel, executive director of Ednium: The Alumni Collective. “Now is a key moment in time for us to elevate the voice of the people we talk about, but rarely with.”

Ednium: The Alumni Collective is a new organization focused on improving educational outcomes in the DPS district, sourced directly from the lived experience of those who recently attended DPS. “Ednium is a platform to elevate alumni,” said Esquibel, a 2011 graduate of Abraham Lincoln High School, which is in southwest Denver.

“It’s built for those who feel their voice doesn’t matter. We already assume you’re brilEsquibel liant, and have something to contribute.”

Ednium focuses on three areas of programming — the Data & Design Lab, the Leadership Launchpad and the Advocacy Accelerator.

The Data & Design Lab came first. It took place in summer 2019 and about 150 DPS alumni participated to evaluate two fundamental questions: 1) what is the knowledge you need in order to achieve your definition of success, and 2) what tools do you need to be able to achieve your definition of success?

All the data was analyzed and drafted into a document that was presented to then-DPS Superintendent Susana Cordova and her leadership team, who then also realized the importance of having recent alumni voices represented in the conversations around educational decisions, Esquibel said.

In spring 2020, the first Leadership Launchpad took place, focusing on three fundamentals — the alumni wanted to be seen and heard, they wanted to gain respect and credibility and they wanted to make an impact. The program lasted three months, and during which, a number of meetings with community leaders took place. The group also worked on a capstone project that entailed taking each of their lived experiences to come up with an idea that would make a difference.

Members of Ednium: The Alumni Collective have their picture taken during a recent meeting. Ednium is a new organization focused on improving educational outcomes in the DPS district, sourced directly from the lived experience of those who attended Denver Public COURTESY PHOTO Schools.

Sometimes these conversations are tough, but they’re important, said Stephanie López, a 2009 graduate of Denver East High School, who has been involved with Ednium since its beginning.

“We want to make sure the next generation has the tools, knowledge and resources they need for their success,” López said, “whatever that success may be for them.”

Esquibel agrees.

For example, he said, “you might be the only person of color in the executive boardroom. But, on the other hand, you might be the only person from your community who went to college.”

Ednium narrowed down all the ideas to two main issues they would begin to tackle — additional financial literacy in education, and the lack of education concerning cultural and ethnic studies, particularly on a local level — and the Advocacy Accelerator got its start in July 2020.

Those involved with the Advocacy Accelerator “further define projects and initiatives, build support and begin implementation,” states a news release. The current goal is to implement financial literacy and cultural and ethnic studies to be graduation requirements for DPS students by 2023.

Financial literacy “is an essential skill to be a contributing member of society,” Esquibel said. Yet, he added, it’s one of the skills that many recent graduates were lacking, especially so among those whose families may not have had a lot of financial gains when they were in high school.

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Employers are looking for people who have cultural competency, and universities value it, said Richard Maez, a 2011 graduate of southwest Denver’s John F. Kennedy High School.

“We’re in a time when these conversations are being had — the current students are living it,” said Maez, who has been involved with Ednium since its beginning. “We need to give students the language and tools to be able to talk about racism, discrimination, stereotyping and prejudice, and open their their eyes to the histories that are yet to be taught.”

Ednium is already making progress on its first two initiatives — a group spoke at a December Board of Education meeting and relayed their own struggles surrounding the lack of instruction on financial literacy and cultural and ethnic studies.

López believes today’s students do care about, and are invested in, the quality of education they receive.

“The younger generation, nationwide, wants an equitable future for themselves and their children,” López said.

In fact, she added, it’s evident that local students care. One example is the studentinitiated Know Justice, Know Peace Resolution. The resolution “seeks to add comprehensive historical and contemporary contributions of Black, Indigenous and Latino communities to K-12 curriculum throughout DPS,” states a news release.

The DPS Board of Directors adopted it in October, but it was a group of students who

MORE INFORMATION Ednium: The Alumni Collective is a new organization focused on improving educational outcomes in the Denver Public Schools district, sourced directly from the lived experience of those who attended DPS. Anybody is welcome to join, as long as they attended a DPS school. Members are roughly between the ages of 18 and 30. To learn more or get involved, visit https://www.ednium. org. attend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College, which is in northeast Denver, who introduced and advocated it.

Ednium does not exist to be a negative critic of DPS, López said.

“It’s to acknowledge what has gone wrong in the past, but also, to build on the things that have been done well,” she said. “Because there is both.”

Ednium is a grassroots organization that brings additional value to school board decisions, Maez added. This, in turn, truly makes a difference for the students of the future, and Denver overall, he added.

“As alumni, we feel a deep connection to our city. And our city can’t be successful without all of the components, which includes a successful school system,” Maez said. “Ednium provides a voice and an engine for alumni to engage with the school district that helped shape who we are today.”

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10 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

LOCAL

VOICES

A world of options to celebrate International Women’s Day

T

FROM THE EDITOR

Christy Steadman

he first year I celebrated International Women’s Day was 2017. I was covering the second annual event put on by organizers in Jefferson County.

I covered International Women’s Day in some capacity since, except last year when I was preoccupied with the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

This year, we have a unique opportunity to travel around the world — virtually — and celebrate the accomplishments of women with people across the globe.

But first, here are the details for a local event.

This is the ninth annual year for WorldDenver to offer an International Women’s Day celebration. This year will honor the accomplishments of women in

national security.

The event will feature Gina Abercrombie-Winstanley, co-founder of the Leadership Council for Women in National Security; and Lauren Bean Buitta, founder and CEO of Girl Security. The event will also honor Janine Davidson, president of Metropolitan State University of Denver who formerly served as a U.S. Air Force pilot and Undersecretary of the Navy.

There will also be a panel discussion entitled Women Who Lead in National Security. This will be moderated by retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Barbara Faulkenberry. The panelists are: retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Susan Helms who is a five-time astronaut; U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Heather Ruhl-

My personal background on growing up near a halfway house

E

GUEST COLUMN

arly in the morning on Feb. 9, Denver City Council passed the Group Living Text Amendment by an 11-2 vote, after several hours of public testimony from more than 100 community members. As we celebrate this step forward in modernizing Denver’s zoning code, I want to share my reflections on how the group living proposals evolved around the issue of community corrections.

Here’s my personal background on this issue: I have lived across the street from a private prison-run halfway house my entire life. My elementary school bus stop was right outside their front door. I had family members who lived there at different points in my life, and my own brother has cycled in and out of prisons and halfway houses most of my life. I had never had a problem with the people

Councilmember Candi CdeBaca

in the halfway house. Never did anyone harm or hurt us, or make us feel like we had to add extra layers of safety to our neighborhood. The residents were not allowed to have cars, so there were never parking issues. Sometimes the bored residents would pick up odd jobs in the neighborhoods, such as raking leaves or shoveling snow, to be helpful.

And then in November 2019, I attended my first Group Living Advisory Committee (GLAC) Community Corrections Subgroup meeting. Only a couple of months prior, I had been a part of a vote to divest all Denver Community Corrections sites from private prison operators.

We had major challenges ahead because of the way the city had allowed community corrections to essentially only exist

I

Katerina Rothman

n the United States, approximately 1.3 million women become menopausal each year.

Menopause is the time marking the permanent end of menstruation, and typically occurs between the ages of 51 and 52. This natural biological process can be the beginning of a beautiful time in your life. Many women who go through menopause report feeling more intuitive, finding themselves and discovering their independent voice in new ways.

However, some of the symptoms that come with menopause can also leave you feeling pretty miserable. Research shows that 75% of women experience hot flashes and night sweats during menopause. But you can reduce the discomfort

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

SEE EDITOR, P11

‘The people of Denver have the power to lead the way globally’

I

Before we see how linen sheets can reduce night sweats — the term used to describe hot flashes that occur at night — let’s talk about the causes and some of the triggers.

Doctors are not 100 percent certain

t is beginning to feel like spring — minus the ice storms that have brought many areas in the world to their knees.

Texas and Saudi Arabia are not places we would expect this weather. However, like the wildfires, it was predicted by scientists ringing alarms about the climate crisis. I cannot ENVIRONMENT echo enough that NASA has predicted a high probability of a multi-decade megadrought for WITH EAN much of the Southwest, with Colorado in the bullseye by the end of the century. We trust these scientists to send Perseverance to Mars. We too must persevere and accept only policy solutions that meet or surpass the climate targets derived by science.

The United States rejoining the Paris Climate Accords and the World Health Organization gives me hope. It was vital that we rejoin the dialogue with the rest of humanity on how to mitigate Ean Thomas Tafoya harm to people, plants and animals, and our global economic infrastructure. Government agencies at all levels have forecasted the catastrophic costs of climate inaction. The sums dwarf the price tags of the COVID-19 stimulus packages — numbers that, on the surface, seem impossible to fundraise — meaning a predictable degradation in public infrastructure and quality of life, if we continue to get behind on the bills.

Both President Joe Biden and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis recently spoke about committing to continued investment towards climate crisis policy. So far, Biden appears to be taking steps to meet his rhetoric. I am especially encouraged by recent executive orders, which may live up to the goal of injecting environmental justice into all policy decisions, and review previous rules in order to root out systemic discrimination. I do not believe it will happen without hard work, and for longevity sake, we need legislation immediately, too. Polis has drawn criticism from the legislators, environmental organizations and frontline community members, among others, for his administration’s glacial pace in fulfilling legislative mandates to save glaciers. The pace has even drawn a lawsuit. I invite everyone to continue contacting their offices to ask them to be principled ancestors to future generations.

In order to achieve success, Biden will need support from the Colorado Delegation. Sen. John Hickenlooper was assigned to four senate committees of importance to the environment — the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources; the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions; the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation; and the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneur-

SEE ROTHMAN, P11

SEE ENVIRONMENT, P11

SEE CDEBACA, P11

Put hot flashes and night sweats on pause during menopause GUEST COLUMN

man; activist, Notre Dame lawyer and U.S. Air Force Lt. Kate Smith; Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Michigan, who is a former CIA Middle East Analyst.

WorldDenver’s event takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 8. It is a virtual event that will be broadcasted live from the Denver Center for Performing Arts.

It is free to attend. To register or learn more, visit https://worlddenver.org.

As its name implies, International Women’s Day is celebrated globally. And because of COVID-19, many of the events are happening virtually, so there is the option to attend an event that’s taking place

that comes with these symptoms, and get back to enjoying this stage of life.

And the good news is that reducing your symptoms is as easy as choosing the right type of natural sheets and bedding.

Flax linen is your new best friend, and here is the truth behind this underutilized fabric that has tremendous value.

1. Linen calms the triggers of hot flashes and night sweats

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Washington Park Profile 11

March 2021

F

Dry shade solutions for gardeners

or many gardeners, dry shade is a difficult area to cultivate.

The real trouble with dry shade is that few gardeners are aware of the many groundcovers, perennials and shrubs GUEST that excel in these COLUMN conditions. Whether Annie Barrow under a tree or shaded by structures or buildings, shady spaces can be a wonderful refuge in summer heat and a quiet place for reflection throughout the seasons.

Let’s review some of my favorite dry shade plants from smallest to largest.

GROUNDCOVER

Sweet woodruff, galium odoratum Commonly known as sweet woodruff, galium odoratum lives up to its name with small, fragrant, four-petaled white flowers

d Rothman FROM PAGE 10

why hot flashes occur during menopause. One theory is that hot flashes happen because your blood vessels widen. Other experts think the rise in body temperature is caused by hormonal changes.

One reason this is such a mystery is because while some women barely notice body temperature fluctuations, many find hot flashes to be incredibly uncomfortable. In addition, many women find that certain triggers make their symptoms worse. Common triggers include stress, hot weather, being in a warm room, spicy foods and hot drinks.

The good news is that linen can actually calm these triggers and reduce night sweats. Because of its unique natural properties, linen fabric massages the skin relieving stress and fatigue so you wake up refreshed. Additionally, Beflax Linen’s unique weave pattern is specially crafted to offer a great balance of comfort and weight.

2. Linen resists moisture

If you are going through menopause and use regular sheets now, you probably find yourself waking up drenched with sweat. There’s almost nothing as unpleasant as waking up from a good dream to find you’re laying in a puddle of sweat.

Linen has lots of great qualities that help you feel cooler and sweat less at night. First, linen’s hygroscopic — aka highly absorbent — properties allow it to both absorb the moisture and wick it away from your skin. Linen is one of the most breathable textiles, and additionally, it is a high-thermal regulator meaning that it regulates the exchange of heat between the air and your skin.

These properties reduce discomfort for you if you are prone to sweat heavily at night.

3. Linen regulates body temperature

Because linen has these amazing properties, you can use it year-round.

that come in early spring — April and May. This mat-forming perennial spreads by creeping roots and self-seeding, creating a dense semi-evergreen groundcover in part-to-full shade. When crushed, cut or dried, the foliage emits a strong aroma and can be used to make sachets or potpourris.

PERENNIALS

Coral bells, heuchera (many cultivars) Coral bells are a beautiful addition to any shade garden — they provide colorful foliage that persists spring through fall. While they produce flowers in May to June, the wow factor of this plant are its leaves. Many cultivars are available, ranging from chartreuse, variegated, orange, burgundy, red, purple and deep chocolate in color. This is a must-have, low-maintenance perennial for every shade garden.

Not only will linen sheets help you feel cooler when you sweat, they also have insulative properties that lock in warmth during the winter. This also means that if you’re having night sweats while your partner sleeps cool next to you in the bed, you can both be comfortable. This versatile fabric regulates your body temperature in any season.

4. Linen is hypoallergenic and durable

Linen is also a great choice for women with allergies or sensitive skin because it’s hypoallergenic. Did you know the chemicals added to certain fabrics to make the material softer can cause irritation and inflammation for people with sensitive skin? And if you’re menopausal with sensitive skin, the inflammation can make night sweats even worse.

However, using stone-washing and natural enzymes, it is possible to produce a soft, high-quality fabric without the toxins. The key here is to look for an Oeko-Tex certification. A global network of laboratories tests fabrics for harmful substances, color fading and acidity to guarantee health and safety. So linen’s hypoallergenic properties contribute to a good night’s sleep as well.

Finally, if you’re suffering from night sweats, you also probably wash your sheets and bedding more often. One of the greatest benefits of linen sheets is their durability. Flax fibers are naturally resilient. Because the fiber is taken out of the stem of the plant, flax linen makes some of the strongest, and softest, fabric possible. Additionally, antistatic properties help your sheets stay clean longer and extend your sheets’ lifespan.

Yes, menopause can come with some negative symptoms. But you don’t need to suffer through hot flashes and night sweats. Choose natural sheets and bedding that are light, calming and strong — just like you.

Katerina Rothman, of Denver, is the founder of Beflax Linen. She strives to help her customers sleep better, naturally, with her 100% all-natural, affordable linen. To learn more about Beflax Linen, visit https://beflaxlinen.com/.

Editor FROM PAGE 10

nearly anywhere in the world.

Visit www.internationalwomensday.com, and select ‘Events’ from the ‘Get Involved’

Lady’s mantle, alchemilla mollis Lady’s mantle, or alchemilla mollis, is a rabbit-and-deer tolerant perennial for dry shade that provides yellow to chartreuse flowers in mid-summer among soft, fuzzy, bright green leaves. This plant will selfsow, so removing flowers before it goes to seed will prevent spread and may encourage a re-bloom. Similar to the coral bells, this plant is low maintenance, requiring only that it is cut back to ground in spring.

Siberian bugloss, brunnera macrophylla Also known as false forget-me-not, brunnera macrophylla is a large-leaved clumping perennial that is topped with many small blue forget-me-not like flowers in early April. Alexander’s Great and Jack Frost are two commonly-found cultivars - the former has exaggeratedly large leaves with a silver variegation. The

CdeBaca FROM PAGE 10

on parcels already owned by private prison operators. We needed to expand where halfway houses were allowed in order to truly divest the system from private profiteers.

Since I had grown up near a halfway house, I had not realized until this meeting that most of the community corrections facilities in the city were not allowed in residential neighborhoods.

Yes, you heard me — human beings were not allowed to live among other human beings, and this was just accepted as the way things were. Most were relegated to warehouse areas far away from transit, sidewalks, resources and other people. I took one look at the visual breakdown of residential uses in the materials provided for the GLAC meeting, and it was clear to me that we were literally segregating communities with Denver’s zoning code.

Redlining had not gone away — we were now just calling it the zoning code.

The materials presented to us at this meeting did not say a word about why this subgroup within the category of group housing existed, nor why any of the other subgroups (i.e., senior housing, college dorms, assisted living, hospice or boarding houses) existed, nor why we had to discuss shelters and halfway houses in isolation from all other types of group living. We were only discussing where the least privileged people could live, instead of the impacts of the

Environment FROM PAGE 10

ship. Sen. Michael Bennet sits on the senate’s Committee on Finance, and the Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry committee.

Local Rep. Diana DeGette serves on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and the House Committee of Natural Resources. Another notable on the House Committee on Natural Resource is Rep. Lauren Boebert from Rifle.

Each committee decides on significant public policies. They should be leaders in the fight for a just transition that empowers a clean economy and remediates our toxic past. They should seek justice from the polluters for the

tab to browse through all of them. There are so many to choose from — panel discussions and online networking, dance classes and bike rides, livestream concerts and art exhibits, and you can even livestream the International Women’s Day Breakfast at Parliament in New Zealand.

Many of the events are free, but not all of

them, and some accept donations for the organization putting the event on.

Additionally, some of the events take place sometime during the week of International Women’s Day, which is March 8, and not on the exact day. So make sure to double check dates, and make note of any time differences if you’re going to virtually

latter has a mainly silver leaf. This plant will spread by rhizome and seed, and is vigorous in the garden.

Lenten rose, helleborus orientalis Lenten rose is a unique perennial for two reasons. Firstly, it is a true harbinger of spring with flowers emerging as early as February or March. Secondly, the lenten rose performs all year long as it is an evergreen perennial. The leaves are thick, leathery and palmate in form with serrated edges. Helleborus are often hybridized to produce colorful and showy blooms that often accentuate the flower’s yellow stamens. Flower color ranges from white, pink and deep red. This plant is deer-resistant but beware, its leaves, stems and roots are toxic to humans if eaten.

SEE GARDENS, P13

size of a facility on its environment.

If a city must have a zoning code, then it should at least deal strictly with the land-use impacts — never with the types of people using the land. Our subcommittee was able to reframe the narrative, and I was proud to hear this repeatedly during the public hearing and in my colleagues’ comments on Feb. 8. Zoning for “people types” must be called what it is: SEGREGATION. During a recent public hearing on group living, we heard people from all walks of life discuss the importance of living communally.

We heard people share histories of being targeted by code enforcement because they were people of color or poor or immigrants. During the public hearing, we were reminded that the mentality of the eras of Jim Crow and redlining are not gone from our city.

Leadership is needed now to truly dismantle the legacies of oppression that still dictate how we live and organize ourselves in modern cities. With last month’s vote, we’ve been able to take a small step toward reducing the level of segregation and discrimination in our zoning code. With this change, halfway houses are allowed in more neighborhoods within the city — and we now have more freedom to transform community corrections to meet a modern vision of what re-entering society after incarceration can be.

Candi CdeBaca represents District 9 on the Denver City Council. She can be reached at district9@denvergov.org.

people they represent. They should call us in to help in the fight. This is an all-hands-on-deck moment.

Let us not forget summer days when the sun was blotted out by wildfire smoke, and hospitals full with respiratory ailments on top of COVID-19. We expect Sen. Hickenlooper, Sen. Bennet and Rep. DeGette to be leaders of the Colorado Delegation and to accept nothing short of solutions that actually meet the needs of the crisis — climate, environmental and social justice are simultaneous priorities.

Our Colorado leaders have influence in critical committees, meaning WE the people of Denver have the power to lead the way globally.

Ean Thomas Tafoya is a climate and government activist. He can be reached at @BelieveEan on Twitter. attend a live-stream event that takes place outside of our time zone. Along with that, if it takes place in a different country, make sure the event is offered in English or another language that you are competent with.

But most of all, have fun celebrating the contributions of women — in the past, present and future.

12 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

‘WE KNOW THESE STORIES EXIST’

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

A

thena Project knows that it all starts with the stories of the artists to fully understand the challenges they face.

“It’s one thing to let people know that women are underrepresented,” said Angela Astle, executive producer and founder of Athena Project, “and another to talk about it with data and personal stories.”

Athena Project is a local nonprofit organization that “empowers women through the arts and creates a world with gender equity where women’s voices are amplified,” states a news release.

To hear those personal stories, Athena Project is putting on the Artists Sound Off Series, which will create a space where women in the arts can connect and openly share their experiences.

The overarching goal is to “identify the barriers and create a plan of action to ensure that women artists can effectively advocate for themselves in the future,” Astle said.

The series will empower “participants to identify, discuss and champion existing barriers to success in various and multifaceted disciplines in the arts,” states a news release. It coincides with Athena Project’s “continuing effort to better understand and support women in the arts.”

Each session part of the Artists Sound Off Series will be structured as a town hall-style Zoom meeting. They will take place from 7-9 p.m. every other Tuesday from March 9 to June 29. Each session will feature a different discipline, including photography, fashion design, comedy and choreography, for just a few examples.

All the conversations will focus on the challenges that women face, which can include sexual harassment, ethnic biases, unequal pay “and some issues still yet to be discovered,” Astle said.

“We know these stories exist,” she said. “This is a brave space to join with a community of peers, to be heard, to share ideas and frustrations, and to elevate one another on a shared journey towards gender and racial equity.”

Anybody, including men as long “they understand the conversation is about the challenges women face,” Astle said, is welcome to join the conversations. LGBTQ+ voices are especially welcome. A news release states that “at Athena Project, we believe that `women’ means many things and can be a complicated term. We recognize that the term `women’ does not automatically include all aspects of the gender spectrum. We want to create a safer space for the expression and growth for all women, trans and gender nonconforming individuals.”

Courtney Cauthon has been

ARTISTS SOUND OFF March 9 — Women Leaders of Institutions March 23 — Photography, Videography and Graphic Design April 6 — Playwriting, Writing, Poetry, and Spoken Word April 20 — Fashion Design May 4 — Acting, Directing, Dramaturgy, and Technical Design May 18 — Comedy and Improv June 1 — Music June 16 — Visual Arts June 29 — Dance and Choreography A couple of dancers with Cleo Parker Robinson Dance perform during a June 2020 Art Finds Us event. Athena Project is hosting its Dance and Choreography session part of the Artists Sound Off Series on June 29.

PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE BASSIN

involved with Athena Project for about seven years and serves as its special project coordinator.

She will be facilitating a couple of the sessions in the Artists Sound Off Series. Because she has a background in theater, Cauthon is especially looking forward to hearing the stories that come from the other disciplines, she said.

It will be interesting to learn, “how are they similar, and how are they different?” Cauthon said.

“And, how can we form allies and partnerships between the different disciplines so we can work

together and move forward?”

Cauthon believes anybody can benefit from the conversations.

Artists will be able to share experiences they may have never before shared, she said. And the conversations will help community members or patrons of the arts be aware of what’s going on, somewhat behind-the-scenes, “with the art you love,” Cauthon said.

Rohini Gupta is a clinical psychologist who has been involved with Athena Project for about a year and a half. She will be facilitating a couple of the sessions, and

Each session will be facilitated. The meetings take place from 7-9 p.m. as a Zoom meeting. It is free to attend, but donations to Athena Project are welcome.

To learn more about Athena Project or to paricipate in any of the sessions part of the Artists Sound Off Series, visit https:// athenaprojectarts.org. is particularly thinking about the healing, she said.

Bearing witness as a group will create community, Gupta added.

The Artists Sound Off Series will “give voice to things we tend to not want to talk about,” Gupta said.

But, they will “increase connection and tap into the power of women.”

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Washington Park Profile 13

March 2021

Having their ‘Voices’ heard

High school seniors Brandon Benedict and Lily Kerlin are tackling a variety of topics on a monthly podcast

By Michael Hicks

WANT TO LISTEN?

mhicks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Lily Kerlin knew that what she and Brandon Benedict were doing was something that not a lot of high school seniors have the opportunity to do.

It’s not every day that you get to interview the governor. Yet, that’s what Benedict, a senior at Arvada West High School, and Kerlin, a Denver South senior, found themselves doing last month.

“I really didn’t believe that it would happen,” Lily said. “… I didn’t know what it would be about or the direction up until that first episode, but we did a lot of research on what the `Hear Our Voices’ podcast would be.”

Brandon had a similar reaction.

“At first, I didn’t believe it,” he said after receiving that initial email about taking on a co-hosting role for a monthly podcast from Colorado Young Leaders and CiviCO. “I was a little nervous. I had never done a podcast before.”

But both are finding the platform welcoming to share their voices on topics such as resiliency, courage, empathy and more.

The podcast, which will tackle themed topics monthly, is the brainchild of Lauren Steavpack, the program director for Colorado Young Leaders. Through a partnership with CiviCO, the podcast — but more specifically Colorado Young Leaders — empowers high school student leaders throughout the state.

The perfect hosts Having Lily and Brandon co-host the

“Hear Our Voices” podcast, co-hosted

by Arvada West senior Brandon Benedict and Denver South senior Lily Kerlin, can be accessed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or PodBean. For more information on the podcast, email podcast@coloradoyoungleaders.org.

Lily Kerlin, a Denver South senior, and Brandon Benedict, a senior at Arvada West High School, are the co-hosts for a monthly podcast “Hear Our Voices,” which will tackle a COURTESY PHOTO number of topics, including resiliency, courage, empathy and more.

program was a no-brainer, said Steavpack, because of their desire to tell stories and their ability to amplify youth voices. And while podcasts have been the rage in recent years, CYL focused on coming up with a unique way to tell their story while reaching out to an embracing audience.

Before she got involved with CYL, Lily said that she was floundering as a freshman and sophomore, like she wasn’t making a difference. That changed in her junior year, and now, she’s using her voice for the betterment of her generation.

“Youth can especially not only make changes but be a part of a change that you

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Wax flower is a shrub native to Colorado that can be planted in shade and in high COURTESY OF DENVER BOTANIC GARDENS elevations.

Gardens FROM PAGE 11

Anemone, anemone × hybrida Anemone hybrids give height and structure to the garden, with foliage up to two-to-three feet; and blooms in August and September reaching three-to-four feet tall. During the spring and summer, the dark green leaves of the anemone provide a lush backdrop to other flowering perennials. Honorine jobert is a cultivar with bright white flowers and yellow centers, while September charm, another popular hybrid, has pink blooms and yellow centers.

It spreads by rhizome and prefers part-tofull shade.

SHRUBS

Creeping Oregon grape holly, berberis repens (mahonia repens) Formerly known as mahonia, berberis repens is a native Colorado broadleaf evergreen shrub that offers yellow flowers in

want to see,” Lily said. “Brandon and I are easily telling stories that are relatable. The stories we’re telling are really engaging.”

Brandon agreed.

“The main goal is the youth part of their voices,” he said. “The whole goal is to see how adults and kids can work together.”

Today’s youth are not only the future, but they’re in a position to make an impact right now, Steavpack said.

“Empowering them is allowing them to lead and shine on their own,” she said.

Like interviewing Gov. Jared Polis and Ananda Birungi, the winner of the Colorado Governor’s Citizenship Medal, for the

first episode. Interviewing Polis was a bit nerve-racking, they said, but once they realized he was just another person — albeit in a leadership role — that calmed the nerves a bit.

“He’s just another person on Earth, another guy in the community,” Brandon said.

“He has so much power, but having him on the podcast felt cool. It was very humbling.”

Lily agreed.

“It was so nerve-racking not only because he’s the governor, but I feel like, especially with any adult in a position of power, that it’s nerve-racking for youth to have a conversation with them,” she said. “But after we did the interview, we were like we killed that. It was not as bad as we thought. There’s the politician side of him, but we got to listening to him a little bit more. It was fun to learn a little bit about his life. I think we got a different perspective than an adult would get, a different energy.”

Brandon Benedict and Lily Kerlin hope that the “Hear Our Voices” podcast will make a difference in the world around them and that young voices, like theirs, will be heard for years to follow. If the first episode is any indication, they’re well on their way to doing just that.

spring, blueberries in summer and deep red-purple fall color. Thick waxy leaves help retain moisture by reducing evapotranspiration in summer and winter. This plant requires virtually no maintenance. The leaves are somewhat prickly, so be thoughtful of where it is placed in the garden.

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14 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

How a smart refrigerator helps build community Small business owner receives loan to expand his and other micro-restaurant concepts during pandemic

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Alejandro Flores-Muñoz, co-owner of the food truck Stokes Poke and a ghost kitchen called Combi Taco, stands next to his new smart refrigerator.

The refrigerator will allow Flores-Muñoz to expand his businesses, but also build community by partnering with other local micro-restaurant concepts to stock the refrigerator. COURTESY PHOTO

Alejandro Flores-Muñoz remembers his mother going doorto-door to sell her homemade flan and cheesecake to support her family.

Today, the 31-year-old Capitol Hill resident realizes how beneficial a smart refrigerator — like the one he recently purchased for his two restaurant concepts — would have been for his mother’s business. A smart refrigerator essentially could have allowed her to double the capacity she was preparing, and in turn, selling, FloresMuñoz said.

“That little bit more can mean so much to a family that is struggling,” he said.

Flores-Muñoz is an immigrant from Mexico. His mother relocated him and his brother from Guadalajara to California in 1997 when Flores-Muñoz was 7. He is a 2012 recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which provided him with work authorization as an undocumented immigrant in the United States.

Flores-Muñoz made his way to Denver in 2016 because of a job opportunity. A couple years later, Flores-Muñoz and his business partner purchased a food truck called Stokes Poke.

Aside from the “joy of getting to share authentic food,” FloresMuñoz saw an opportunity in food service, he said.

In May 2019, Flores-Muñoz decided to leave the job he relocated to Colorado for so he could dedicate himself full-time to growing the food truck business. A little while later, he also started another business venture called Combi Taco, which is a ghost kitchen featuring family recipes that operates out of CloudKitchens in Denver’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

When COVID-19 hit, Flores-Muñoz, like many other restaurateurs, had to figure out a way to keep his businesses afloat through the pandemic.

It was about “pivoting in a time of crisis for the food industry,” Flores-Muñoz said. “I really dove into the virtual concept.”

He did some research and learned about the new smart refrigerator technology. With the smart refrigerator, Flores-Muñoz can expand his businesses and reach more customers. It can be set up at a stationary location — a corporate office, hospital or college campus, for some examples — and stocked daily with fresh, prepackaged meals from Flores-Muñoz’s restaurants. It works similarly to a vending machine, in that customers can swipe their credit card and choose which meal they want, Flores-Muñoz said. Proceeds from each sale goes directly to the restaurant concept, Flores-Muñoz added.

The smart refrigerator can hold about 100 meals, Flores-Muñoz said, and because it can hold such a capacity, Flores-Muñoz plans on partnering with other local micro-restaurant concepts, particularly those owned by Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) restaurateurs, he said.

“Building community is important,” Flores-Muñoz said. “I see this refrigerator as an opportunity for us all to grow our businesses.”

To purchase the smart refrigerator, Flores-Muñoz applied for, and was awarded, a $4,000 COVID Pivot Loan from the Colorado Solidarity Fund, LLC., which is a member-managed investment club.

“Our members are interested in local businesses thriving,” said Paul Bindel, co-president of the Colorado Solidarity Fund. “We see investing in the main street economy as a way of helping more dollars circulate locally and stay local.”

Flores-Muñoz is one of two recipients who were approved in December for the COVID Pivot Loan, which was created during the pandemic specifically for businesses that had to make a significant and new pivot to their operations in order to survive the pandemic, Bindel said.

“What excited us about his (Flores-Muñoz’s) proposal,” Bindel said, “is his desire to work with other food producers.”

Flores-Muñoz is still determining the location of his first smart refrigerator, but he hopes to eventually purchase more and implement them throughout Denver-metro, partnering with even more small businesses to offer a variety of local food selections.

Flores-Muñoz believes immigrants add a lot to communities, and that their contributions should not be ignored.

“As a first-generation immigrant, I’ve come to realize there are barriers,” Flores-Muñoz said. But the with difficulties also comes some successes, he added. “And the success here is building community and generational wealth.”

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Washington Park Profile 15

March 2021

‘DENVE R MOV ES’

t

A rollerblader uses the existing bike lane on South Marion Street Parkway near Washington Park. A bikeway construction project is slated for South Marion Street Parkway from East Bayaud to East Virginia avenues.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTY STEADMAN

City continues work on connecting neighborhoods with bikeways

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Denver’s Department of Transportation & Infrastructure (DOTI) continues to engage with the community for its Denver

Moves: Bicycles Program. The idea is to achieve a “network of better bike facilities in Denver that make it more comfortable, safe and accessible for people to ride bikes,” states the website.

Three areas - being called Community Transportation Networks (CTN) - will be the focus through 2024. They are: • Northwest Denver CTN - Regis, Berkeley, Sunnyside, West Highland, Sloan Lake and Jefferson Park.

• Central Denver CTN - Five Points, Cole, Clayton, Whittier, City Park West and City Park.

PLANNING

• South Central Denver CTN - Baker, La Alma, Lincoln Park, Capitol Hill, Alamo Placita, Country Club, City Park West, Cheeseman Park, Golden Triangle, West Washington Park, Overland, Platt Park and Rosedale.

This article focuses on the projects in the South Central Denver CTN that are in the Washington Park Profile’s coverage area.

The city has divided the projects into three phases: • Planning - the community is asked to provide feedback on the project. The

city has surveys for some of the projects, which can be accessed online at www. ctnvirtualopenhouse.com.

• Design - the project team advances the conceptual design’s ideas and concepts into detailed engineering.

• Construction - the project design is complete and construction of the project will soon begin.

A virtual open house on the South Central Denver CTN took place on Feb. 4, and another is slated for Spring 2021.

Here are where the projects will be taking place, and what phase each is in.

DESIGN

Alamo Placita • East Second Avenue/North Clarkson Street from North Pearl Street to East Third Avenue.

Baker/La Alma/Lincoln Park • South Cherokee Street from North Bannock Street to West Alameda Avenue.

• East Second Avenue/West Second Avenue from North Galapago Street to North Pearl Strteet.

• North Shoshone Street/Fifth Avenue from Curtis Street to West 13th Avenue.

Country Club • East Third Avenue from North Clarkson to North Gilpin Street.

Platt Park • East Florida Avenue from South Sherman Street to South Corona Street.

Platt Park/Rosedale • South Sherman Street from East Mississippi Avenue to East Harvard Avenue.

University/Platt Park/Rosedale • South Franklin Street from the East Buchtel Bike Lane to East Wesley Avenue.

West Washington Park • East Exposition Avenue from South Broadway to Washington Park Road 4.

• East Virginia Avenue/East Dakota Avenue from South Cherokee Street to South Marion Street Parkway.

West Washington Park/Platt Park • West Mississippi Avenue/South Logan Street from South Sherman Street to East Kentucky Avenue.

Need A Little Help?

A bikeway project on East Exposition Avenue from South Broadway to Washington Park Road 4 is in planning.

This photo was taken on East Exposition between South Pennsylvania and South Pearl streets in the West Washington Park neighborhood.

Baker/La Alma/Lincoln Park • East Bayaud Avenue from South Lincoln Street to South Downing Street.

• North Galapago Street from West 13th Avenue to West Third Avenue.

West Washington Park • East Kentucky Avenue from South Logan Street to South Downing Street.

• South Pearl Street/North Pearl Street from East Third Avenue to East Tennessee Avenue.

• South Broadway from North Speer Boulevard to East Exposition Avenue.

CONSTRUCTION

Baker/La Alma/Lincoln Park • North Galapago Street from West Colfax Avenue to North Speer Boulevard.

• Third Avenue from Osage Street to Kalamath Street.

Washington Park • South Marion Street Parkway from East Bayaud Avenue to East Virginia Avenue.

To learn more about any of the projects, visit https://bit.ly/3jzwxva. Specific questions can also be answered by sending an email to DenverMoves@denvergov.org. It is requested that the CTN be included in the subject line. If a phone call is preferred, the number for the city’s CTN Hotline is 303-223-6575. Leave your name, question and the best way to reach you.

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16 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

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Washington Park Profile 17

March 2021

Health-care workers relieve police in program with no arrests Chief says STAR program frees officers to fight crime

By David Sachs Denverite.com

A young program that puts troubled nonviolent people in the hands of health-care workers instead of police officers has proven successful in its first six months, according to a progress report.

Since June 1, a mental health clinician and a paramedic have traveled around the city in a white van handling low-level incidents, like trespassing and mental health episodes, that would have otherwise fallen to patrol officers with badges and guns. In its first six months, Denver’s Support Team Assisted Response program, or STAR, has responded to 748 incidents. None required police and/ or led to arrests or jail time.

The civilian team handled close to six incidents a day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, in high-demand neighborhoods. STAR does not yet have enough people or vans to respond to every nonviolent incident, but about 3% of calls for Denver Police Department service, or more than 2,500 incidents, were worthy of the alternative approach, according to the report.

STAR represents a more empathetic approach to policing that keeps people out of an often-cyclical criminal justice system by connecting people with services like shelter, food aid, counseling and medication. The program also deliberately cuts down on encounters between uniformed officers and civilians.

“This is good stuff, it’s a great program, and basically, the report tells us what we believed,” said Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen.

Pazen added that he doesn’t want to sound flippant, but the approach was somewhat of a known quantity because he’s been talking about it with advocates for mental health and criminal justice reform for years.

Denver just so happened to launch the program in the middle of a movement against police violence.

Pazen’s goal is to fill out the alternative program so that every neighborhood can use its services at all hours, instead of just weekdays during normal business hours.

Nearly $3 million for more social workers and more vans should help Denver move toward that “North Star” this year, Pazen said. The money is expected to come from the city budget and a grant from Denver’s sales-tax-funded mental health fund.

Carleigh Sailon, one of two civilian social workers on the team, said more vans — and more food and blankets to go with them —

Chris Richardson and Carleigh Sailon with the Mental Health Center of Denver (left and right) and Spencer Lee, a Denver Health PHOTOS BY KEVIN J. BEATY/DENVERITE paramedic, stand in front of the Support Team Assisted Response’s new van.

as well as weekend and after-hour shifts, will do big things for the program.

“We run an unbelievable amount of calls for such a limited pilot program and have had some really good outcomes on those calls,” Sailon said.

The policing alternative empowers behavioral health experts to call the shots, even when police officers are around.

Sailon said she remembers a call last year in which a woman was experiencing mental health symptoms at a 7-Eleven. The clerk had called the police — the woman was technically trespassing — but when the police arrived, they called Sailon.

“We got there and told police they could leave,” Sailon said. “We didn’t need them there.”

The woman, who was unhoused, was upset about some issues she was having on her prepaid Social Security card. Sailon helped her into the van where the two “game-planned” a solution before the STAR crew drove her to a day shelter for some food, she said.

“So we were sort of able to solve those problems in the moment for her and got the police back in service, dealing with a law enforcement call,” Sailon said.

The fact that the police officers even called the STAR team tells Matthew Lunn, a doctor in charge of DPD’s strategic initiatives, that the program is working. About 35% of calls to STAR personnel come from police officers, according to the report.

“I think it shows how much officers are buying into this, realizing that these individuals need a focused level of care,” said

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The Support Team Assisted Response van.

Lunn, who authored the report.

No one really needs any more evidence that this alternative to traditional policing works, but Sailon and Lunn said more data will make STAR stronger. For example, while STAR might steer people away from jails and courts initially, the long-term effects of the program must be studied, the report states.

Pazen is thrilled with the success of STAR, but the time and money it saves will go toward fighting crime, he said.

A spectrum of solutions has sprouted from protests against systemic racism and police brutality that started last summer, including the idea of taking money from traditional policing and giving it to social programs not unlike STAR. For Pazen, transferring low-level calls to civilian teams is not about reallocating

money. It’s about solving two problems at once — getting harmless residents the help they need while letting police focus on other things.

“I want the police department to focus on police issues,” Pazen said. “We have more than enough work with regards to violent crime, property crime and traffic safety, and if something like STAR or any other support system can lighten the load on mental health calls for service, substance abuse calls for service and low-level issues, that frees up law enforcement to address crime issues.”

Pazen added: “I see this as an ‘and.’ Not an ‘or.’”

This story is from Denverite, a nonprofit Denver news source affiliated with CPR News.

Used by permission. For more, and to support Denverite, visit denverite.com.

18 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

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Washington Park Profile 19

March 2021

Learning from a troubled past New book explores Denver’s busing era

By Kirsten Dahl Collins Special to Colorado Community Media

A

t 9:30 p.m. on a chilly February evening in 1970, a series of huge explosions rocked Denver’s Congress Park neighborhood.

If not for the darkness, bystanders would have seen smoke pouring from the school bus depot at 2920 W. Seventh Ave. By the time school officials arrived, they found little but the twisted, smoldering metal shells of 24 school buses, with another 15 severely damaged. Why would anyone want to destroy one-third of Denver’s school bus fleet? The answer is simple — the buses were newly-purchased to comply with court-ordered integration.

And that was just the beginning of the violence, according to local historian Phil Goodstein’s new book, “The Denver School Busing Wars.” The second volume in his trilogy about the history of the city’s public schools, Goodstein “Busing Wars” explores the 30-year conflict, aided by many historic photos and striking drawings by local artists.

The busing era ended 26 years ago and affected only 5% of the nation’s students.

Why explore such a long-buried controversy? Part of the reason lies in Goodstein’s passion for history, which began in the late 1960s when he was a student at East High School, and culminated with a doctorate from the University of Colorado-Boulder.

“After reading about the organized labor movement in New York in the 1920s, I realized these upheavals of the 1960s are nothing new,” Goodstein said. “The advantage of history is you can always see how people repeat the same mistakes.”

Busing also resurfaced as a hot topic during the recent presidential debates.

In June 2019, Kamala Harris, now vice president, reproved her boss-to-be, Joe Biden, for opposing busing in the `60s.

She cited the positive difference it made in her life, widening her horizons beyond the working-class Berkeley neighborhood where she grew up. That view is shared by many Americans of color. According to Chalkbeat, a website that reports on education in Colorado, research shows that Black students who were bused to more affluent schools were more likely to graduate from college, earn more and enjoy better health. The research found no negative effects on white students’ graduation rates or adult earnings.

Still, in the dark days of the early 1970s, Goodstein wrote that the city of Denver “became unhinged.” Molotov cocktails, pipe bombs and death threats assailed school board members and pro-busing activists.

Amid all the sound and fury, something important was at stake. At the time, it was nearly impossible for children of color to get a decent education. Jim Crow schools pervaded the South, designed to train Black sharecroppers’ children for farming and domestic service — and little else. The late Benjamin E. Mays, the former president of Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, wrote that the Jim Crow system “has warped the minds and spirits of thousands of Negro youths.”

Things were hardly better in Denver, where Denver Public Schools shunted children of color into what Goodstein describes as “Denver’s informal Jim Crow

The serene beauty of South High School in Washington Park belies the tumult of the 1970s.

PHOTO BY TIM COLLINS

system.” A 2013 article by Colorado Public Radio education reporter Jenny Brundin recounts that children in one such school were barely reading by the end of third grade. Latino parents also worried about the quality of their neighborhood schools, which had the city’s lowest achievement levels and highest dropout rates.

Goodstein’s book travels through Denver’s first attempts to ignore, defy and then grudgingly comply with the Supreme Court’s 1954 mandate to de-segregate public schools. Goodstein introduces readers to local activists such as Rachel Noel, a Black sociologist who was elected to the all-white DPS Board of Education in 1965. The soft-spoken Park Hill mother was outraged to find her two children being funneled into the under-equipped, largely Black, Barrett Elementary School.

Instead, Noel put her children on the bus to the top-rated Park Hill School, which was mostly white. Believing that children of different races would benefit by going to school together, she introduced Resolution 1490, which required DPS to create a plan to integrate public schools.

Noel’s resolution triggered a backlash, however. Angry Denver voters elected two opponents to busing to the Board of Education, which promptly rescinded the Noel plan. That led to the famous Keyes vs.

District One lawsuit, described by CPR’s Brundin as “the biggest desegregation case

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outside the South.” Like Rachel Noel, Wilford Keyes was also an African-American resident of Park Hill, frustrated by numerous attempts to find quality public schools for his two children. The Keyes lawsuit accused DPS of violating the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which forbids the states to deny equal protection to any citizen. Eventually, the plaintiffs won their case before the Supreme Court.

In the fall of 1970, buses began transporting a total of 8,380 Denver children to more affluent, largely white schools outside their neighborhoods. DPS had pinned its hopes on last-minute appeals, Goodstein notes, and was ill-prepared to deal with the new reality.

In many ways, Goodstein, who doesn’t own a car and bikes everywhere, still identifies with the 1960s counterculture. At East High, he hung out with anti-war intellectuals and rebelled against the school’s “regimented, militaristic” approach to education. He admired social critic Paul Goodman, whose bestseller, “Growing up Absurd,” rocked the 1960s with its claim that oppressive school culture alienates and criminalizes young people. But unlike many liberals, Goodstein is no fan of busing. He feels the program was a failure because “integration was only on the surface.”

“In some ways,” Goodstein said, “the schools are a mirror of what’s happening

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in the larger society.”

He feels the problem goes way beyond segregation.

“It’s poverty,” he said. “DPS can’t serve poor kids well because the schools reflect the problems in the community.”

Goodstein is especially critical of the schools’ regimented style — too rigid to adapt to and support incoming students.

By way of example, he cited the “conservative” approach at South High in Washington Park. While today South is a bastion of diversity, acclaimed for its supportive ESL program for refugees from 62 nations, in the fall of 1970, students of color arrived to a chilly reception. There were no small orientation sessions, get-acquainted socials or locker buddies. Teens were punished for travel delays that were not their fault. Worst of all, many students from Denver’s underfunded `Jim Crow’ schools were unprepared for academic rigor.

The new students never received the support they needed to catch up, Goodstein said. Instead, “they were marked down and taunted by whites.”

This triggered student walk-outs, strikes and violent clashes. The schools responded by stationing police in the halls. After one student melee, South closed for a day.

Later that fall, George Washington High School closed for 10 days, following a series of clashes climaxing with about 250 young people battling the police.

As the `70s and the buses rolled on, anger and violence faded. During the `80s, more and more white families put their children into private schools or departed for the suburbs. In September 1995, Denver Judge Richard Matsch finally released the city from court-ordered busing. According to Goodstein’s book, Matsch believed that the busing order “had achieved all it possibly could. Besides, the massive drop in white enrollment … meant there simply were not enough white children left in the system for court-ordered integration to be meaningful.”

Today, reflecting a national trend, Denver schools are just as segregated as they were when Rachel Noel first joined the Board of Education in 1965. While this appears to be the result of economic disparity rather than Jim Crow, the effect is similar — a wide achievement gap between white, Black and Latino students. And of course, Jim Crow laws and attitudes helped create that economic disparity.

In the wake of former Superintendent Susana Cordova’s departure in 2020, the search is on for new DPS leadership.

Clearly whoever heads DPS next has their work cut out for them. Goodstein would probably urge them to study the past.

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20 Washington Park Profile

March 2021

The Center on Colfax launches book club Attendees can participate in discussions even if they didn’t read the book

By Christy Steadman csteadman@coloradocommunitymedia.com

The Center on Colfax understands that people have busy schedules.

That’s why it created a book club for which people can choose whether or not to read the book ahead of time.

The new book club is called Read it or Don’t Book Group. It is being offered through a partnership between The Center on Colfax, commonly referred to as The Center, and the Denver Public Library.

The new book club is a social and learning program, said Rex Fuller, The Center’s CEO. It is not necessary to read the books to be able to fully participate in the book discussions, but the selection of books is “cool and fun,” so likely people will enjoy them, Fuller said. All the books have an LGBTQ+ theme, but range from memoirs to science fiction, Fuller said.

“Our hope is that the book group will spark new dialog and help people unite over shared experiences,” Fuller said. “Even if participants don’t read the book, we’re creating this with the idea that someone will walk away inspired about learning something new or excited about making new connections.”

The Center, 1301 E. Colfax Ave. in Denver’s City Park West neighborhood, was founded in 1976 and serves as a safe community center to give voice to Colorado’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender

and queer (LGBTQ+) community. It hosts a variety of ongoing events, services and programs including Rainbow Alley for youth and SAGE of the Rockies for older adults, but is well-known for putting on the annual Denver PrideFest.

For now, the Read it or Don’t Book Group is being offered virtually. All book discussions will be streamed live through The Center’s Facebook page and YouTube channel, and the meetings will also be available on The Center’s website for viewing later if someone is unable to stream it live. Each discussion will have subtitles and feature an ASL interpreter.

The first book discussion took place Feb. 11 for the book, “I Can’t Date Jesus,” by Michael Arceneaux.

The Read it or Don’t Book Group had been in planning for quite some time, Fuller said, and had to be modified to take place virtually because of the pandemic. It is expected that the book discussions will eventually take place in-person once COVID-19 restrictions ease, Fuller added.

The Read it or Don’t Book Group has three main goals, Fuller said. The first is to have a conversation and learn about a new topic, as mentioned above. The second is to articulate the variety of the LGBTQ+ experience by offering a diverse set of voices, represented through the books and/ or the book discussion panelists. Each book club meeting will feature a different panel of guests who will present themes found in the book and how they relate to the community. Thirdly, the book group will address issues that the LGBTQ+ community faces.

“Our team has worked very closely with The Center to create a book club that will facilitate thoughtful conversation, aware-

READ IT OR DON’T BOOK GROUP Upcoming book discussions

“Surpassing Certainty: What My Twenties Taught Me” by Janet Mock: 7 p.m. April 8 “The Long Way to A Small Angry Planet” by Becky Chambers: 7 p.m.

Sept. 9 “A Two-Spirit Journey: The Autobiography of a Lesbian Ojibwa-Cree Elder” by Ma-Nee Chacaby: 7 p.m.

Nov. 18 All book discussions will be streamed live through The Center on Colfax’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. Meetings will also be available on the website for viewing after the event.

ness and much more,” said Olivia Gallegos, spokeswoman for Denver Public Library, in a news release. “We currently work with The Center to conduct outreach in the community and we also believe in the work The Center does. We’re proud to partner with The Center on this effort to bring a library book club to the LGBTQ+ community.”

For those who would like to read the book — either prior to the discussion or afterwards — the books will be available in hard copy or e-book from the Denver Public Library, or can be purchased online — such as from Amazon — or at some local bookstores.

The book group is meant to expand The Center’s programming to meet the interests of a wider array of community members, Fuller said. He believes everybody, including those who do not identify as LGBTQ+, will enjoy reading the books and participating in the book discussions.

“We hope people will embrace the program,” Fuller said, “and have some great conversations.”

Queer Author Expo

Dates and additional details to be announced.

This event will offer an expo for Colorado LGBTQ writers, workshops led by community experts from the fields of publishing, and opportunities for writers to share their works. Two book discussions will also be part of the event. They are “In the Dream House” by Carmen Maria Machado and “No Walls and the Recurring Dream” by Ani DiFranco.

For more information on the Read It Or Don’t Book Group, or to stay up-to-date on announcements for the Queer Author Expo, visit https:// lgbtqcolorado.org.

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