Your Guide to Community, Politics, Arts and Culture in North Denver DenverNor thStar.com
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Volume 1, Issue 9
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June 15 -July 14, 2020
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ALWAYS FREE!
Hundreds March Down Tennyson in Protest
By Michael Kiley
ARTS & CULTURE
T
Entertainment Venues PAGE 7
PHOTOS BY DAVID SABADOS
Over 400 people marched down Tennyson Street to protest the death of George Floyd and other instances of police brutality.
North High School Student Organizes Community
DINING Expanded Patios PAGE 8
COMMUNITY Class of 2020 PAGE 12
COMMUNITY Interview with Denver Chief of Police Paul Pazen PAGE 14
COMMUNITY Dreams of Olympic Gold PAGE 15
Meet the State Board of Education Democratic Primary Candidates
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By David Sabados abi Isom, like most North High School students, has spent the last few months adapting to remote learning. Unlike most other high school freshmen, she also organized a march in support of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement and to protest the killing of George Floyd in Minnesota. “I was sitting at home watching protesters make a difference,” Isom said. “I wanted to take it to our neighborhood.” Several estimates put the crowd at over 400 people, including several dozen of Isom’s classmates. The march began in Berkeley Park, continued down Tennyson St, and returned to the park. At one point protesters stretched from 46th avenue down to 38th. Different protests across the state and country have taken different tones in regards to police involvement in marches; Isom said they welcomed members of the Denver Police Department who agreed to join them. Approximately a dozen officers were present, some walking with protesters, some blocking traffic when protesters reached intersections. Sandy Thompson, Gabi Isom’s mother, joined her at the march. “I’m so proud
of our community and our kids,” said Thompson, noting she was grateful for everyone who came and to live in a diverse neighborhood. Councilwoman Amanda Sandoval and DPS School Board Member Brad Laurvick both participated and praised students for organizing the march. “It’s really important to allow our youth to have a voice in a safe environment,” said Sandoval. “For us to gather peacefully with police and community moves us forward.” Speaking at a community meeting several days later, Sandoval said she did receive several complaints from recently reopened businesses on Tennyson St. She worked to move a subsequent march to a neighboring street instead. “I am grateful for the awareness and intention our stu-
he Colorado State Board of Education (SBoE) elections normally draw little media attention, despite its important role in public education in Colorado. Given Denver’s political leanings, the new representative on the SBoE may ostensibly be decided in the June Democratic Primary. The State Board is composed of seven members, one elected from each congressional district, and board members serve without pay for six-year terms. Only Democrats have a primary this year. The Denver North Star will be reaching out to Republican and third party candidates this fall before the November election. The SBoE oversees the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), approves rules that govern public education pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, and regulates educator licensing for over 55,000 teachers in Colorado. The SBoE can also approve new charter schools, overriding local district school boards. The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed K-12 education in a matter of months. Colorado lawmakers are currently planning for a 2020-2021 budget deficit of $3 billion, or a 10% reduction from the budget that Gov. Jared Polis recommended last November. Denver Public School officials recently predicted the district could lose from $19 million to $61 million in state funding next fall. State rules and regulations, overseen by the Colorado Department of Education, frequently lack provisions for students to be taught remotely. The State Board will have to review and amend these regulations to allow for extended
dents brought to a community need,” said Laurvick. “The space they created for community of all ages to not only march in solidarity, but also to hear the names of black lives memorialized, to hear their names is essential.” Isom hopes she and her classmates can support people of color in the community. “I’m white and I have privilege,” said Isom. “It makes me sick seeing how blacks are treated,” referring not just to the video of George Floyd but the systemic racial problems across the country. Kathy Senft lives a few doors down from Isom’s family and said it was positive to see so many young people participating. “If they’re involved, the world will keep evolving,” she said looking at a group of students nearby. See PRIMARY, Page 4
CLASS OF
INC
American Liberty Mortgage www.KevinGreenTeam.com
www.GreenDoorLiving.com
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES The team at Green Door Living Real Estate, Jennifer Gentry, Paris Lumb, Brad Sander and Christian Thompson and Kevin Green of The Green Team American Liberty Mortgage, would like to honor all of the graduates of our community.
We are so proud of you! • Cristian Casillas Mendoza • Adrian Cervantes Facio Jr • Breanna Ann Chapa • Janethe Chavez • Roman Gabriel Chavez • Viviana Cora Chavez-Lovato • Cayden Robert Clark-Johnson • Makenna Victoria Clark-Johnson • Aspen Mae Coates • David Joseph Coca IV • Julisa Contreras • Esther Rose Cornish • Marco Alexandro Coronado Barrios • Sylvia Darlene Cuellar • Nasro Mohamed Abdi • Hezekiah James Cameron Curtis • Cameron Todd Abeyta • Santaurious Shamond Davis • Jordan Robert Aguirre • Nallely De La Cruz Munoz • Ariana Martinez Alvarado • Isaiah Guadalupe Diaz • Francisco Jose Alvarado Melchor • Mia Simóne Dominguez • Uriel Ausencio Alvarez Ramirez • Diana Roxana Duran Hernandez • Diondri Yaw Trivon Amankwah • Isabelle Ann Ellertson • Ania Reyna Amaya • Martha Emmanuel • Isla Kreutzer Anderson • Destiny Ember Eppes • Danielle Apodaca • Adrian Gabriel Escoto • Laila Alicia Arguello • Emmanuel Espino-Diaz • Jack Scott Arnold • Jarelly Dianeth Espinoza Lopez • Alan Balderrama Borunda • Austin James Falter • Angelica Linda Barajas • Elena Patricia Farrell-Stevenson • Brandon Alex Barranco • Axel Felix Oropeza • Alexandra Barrera • Isaac Ronald Fentress • Amadeus Benavidez • Isabella Fernandes De Oliveira • Brandon Jacob Bennett • Hanna Jaielet Fernandez-Celis • Isabella Lavonne Blea • Diego Adolfo Fierro-Rayas • Dakota Elonzo Bliven • Destiny Angel Marie Finn • Deanna Roselynn Boone • Bryan Fuentes • Brayan Bravo • Jacob Brian Gabaldon • Hayden Michael Breitzman • Jesus Gabriel Jasso • Priscilla Maria Broomandi • Alexis Mary Hope Gallegos • Daniel Lamont Brown • Adriana Christal Garcia • Jesus Luis Bujanda • Crystal Ann Garcia • Samantha Cabrera • Daniel Phillip Thomas Garcia • Donovan Thomas Calderon • Leena Rose Garcia • Jovani Luis Cano • Evellyn Garcia Rodriguez • Milynda Carolina Caraballo Romero • Emilio Atticus Gomez • Juaquin Cardenas • Macario Christopher Gomez Jr • Miguel Carranza
• Miguel Angel Gomez II • Winta Jermiya Gonye • Breanna Abbie Gonzales • Mariah Gonzales • Nevaeh Nadiya Gonzales • Nevaeh Marie Gonzales Medina • Jonathan Gonzalez • Daniel Gonzalez Sanchez • Lillian Taylor Gregg • Oliver Dale Groner • Edgar Guerrero-Ruiz • Ciriniti Lynn Gurule • Aidan Campbell Hepler • Karen Maribel Heredia • Jasmine Jaya Hernandez • Seng Sut Ing • Jaisy Aaliyah Saulina Iñiguez • Daniel Ray Irving • Noah Jude Jansen • Bret Thomas Kelly • Amber Benton Kiley • Nathan Gabriel Dax Kilgore Jr • Joseph Armand Kimball • Evan Marley Lira • Savannah Victoria Lopez • Jalen Edward Lucero • Marissa Heavenly Lucero • Angelique Leticia Luevano • Wendy Vanesa Lujan Peinado • Elias Antonio Luna Mondragon • Malachi Malik Marshall • Carlos Alfredo Martinez • Chantal Nicole Martinez • Juliana Sierra Martinez • Marcelino Alfreado Martinez Jr • Nevaeh Justine Martinez • Pablo Antonio Martinez • Ray Xavier Martinez Jr • Kassandra Martinez-Romero • Elias Eby Mast • Calder Matthew McCarthy • Alex Guadalupe Medina • Dorian Paul Medina • Aron Samuel Mendez • Travis Jonathan Menke Jr
• Malik Deonte Miner • Heaven Angel Montano • Seth Riley Montano • Analisa Mariah Montoya • Sheccid Jezabel Najar-Armendariz • Raymond Joseph Navarette • Quang Trong Nguyen • Gabriel Ben Ojeda • Elle Mckenzie Olguin • Manuel Ramon Orge • Jaime Ortiz Amador • Emilio Kevin Ozuna Guerrero • Cedric Thomas Padilla • Maya Tonalli Padilla • Matthew Lucas Palma • Madison Lynne Peerman • Aaron Lewis Perez • Edder Jair Perez Buendia • Alyssa Yvonne Picaso • Niko Caleb Poli-Hoof • Noelani Zatlia Rael • Sebastian Ramirez • Armando Ramirez-Lopez Jr • Mario Alberto Ramirez Villa • Josue Rivera-Zandate • Noah Roncen-Rylee Ray • Larry Darnell Reed III • Damian Isaiah Rodriguez • Isaiah Joseph Rodriguez • Jacqulene Cassandra Rodriguez • Luna Veronica Rodriguez • Gabriela Ronquillo Galvan • David Rosa Jr • Ivan Aaron Rozell • Valentino Daniel Salas • Alfonso Salinas Jr • Ayla Jael Sanchez • Jovana Elodia Sanchez • Ivan Sanchez Venitez • Frankie Isabella Promesa Sancio • Victor Samual Sandoval • Isabella Sandoval-Encinas Eva Jade Santistevan • Dacota Blue Feather Serna • Eva Garnet Severance
• Breanna MaryJo Shuker • Adrian Biagio Silletto • Crystle Michelle Silva-Ervin • Aaron Mitchell Singer • Owen Austin Smith • Ashley Del Consuelo Soto Chavez • Bridget Nora Stelpflug • Ruby Zafira Stith • Kalysta Elise Talusan • Mahajzanay Allazee Tate • Seth Sky Thalley • Lucia Torres • Tierra Alexis Tunson • Michael Timothy Valdez • Jonathan Vega Sanchez • Aaron Velez Sotelo • Aaron Michael Viets • Ja’Naya Marie Lashay Ward • Isabella Scot Wentland • Lawrence West • Gabriel Ray Wiltse • Jaques Babatunde Womack • Isaac Robert Zamora • Michael Anthony Zamora Limon, Jr • Elias Jahir Zarate • Henry Ezekiel Zerwas
North High School Engagement Center
• Prayer Corin Alvarez • Cristian Ivan Andrade • Bryan Arellano-Cornejo • Vincent Michael Arroyo • Yovany Baltazar-Gonzales • Cesar Alexis Barron-Villa • Abel Bravo-Gonzalez • Paige Destiny Brownotter • Humberto Buenavista-Ramirez • Berenice Bujanda-Esparza • Raymond Julian Carrasco • Gaea Rose Cassidy • Hannah Grace Chestney • Christian Daniel Chirinos-Salazar • Alexis Cruz-Ramos • Lorenzo Delgadillo-DeLaRosa
• Mireya Bianca Diaz • Osvaldo Espino-Medrano • Jorge Fernandez-DeLaTorre • Julio Andres Flores • Jonathan Gutierrez-Lopez • Valeria Herrera-Pacheco • Janelle Reyanne Huff-Gonzales • Heiven Marie Hurtado • Julio Cesar Larios-Catano • Ivan Leanos-Aguilera • Blanca E Lopez-Ortiz • Ariana Angel Lynn • Luis Artemio Martinez • Miguel Angel Martinez-Hernandez • Jazlyn Jeannette Matute Jacob Medina-Palacios • Miia AmindaSinthia Monarrez-Adame • Samane Naovarath • Shante Nya Navarrete • Edwin Kofi Obuobisa • Amoni Nicolette Oliver • Mia Sha Ortega • Pilar Amanda Pacheco • Jehu Marcos Perez • Axel Pineda • Ruperto Pinon-Balderrama • Keven Puchi-Holguin • Rueben Anthony Quezada • Damon Diondre Rossi-Lontine • Jackson Rusan • Donovan Lucas Salazar • Enery Daniela Sanchez-Alvarez • Le’Detric Jabarre Small • Nasir Shalon Kasheid Smith • Anthony Soto-Carrillo • Connor Mak Taha • Ilene Teresa Uribe • Anthony Gabriel Velasquez • Damian Mykal Vigil • Ralph Nehemiah Vigil • Juan P Villareal • Anthony Ray Yazzie • Kassandra Gisselle Zapata-Dimas
Congratulations to Skinner Middle School class of 2024 continuing to high school! Additionally, we want to honor the Northwest Denver Middle School students continuing to high school from Lake Middle School, Bryant Webster, Strive Prep Sunnyside, Strive Prep Lake and The Boys School.
• Annabel A. • Adrian A. • Thaid A. • Jade A. • Brady A. • Fatuma A. • Hawo A. • Ga’Von B. • Adrian B. • Lillianna B. • Megan B. • Isabella B. • Maya B. • Tatyana B. • Celestine B. • Jacob B. • Kobe B. • Indiana B. • Amarion B. • Connor B. • Dylan B. • Oliver B. • Polly B. • Magdalena B. • Alayshia C.
• Ernesto C. • Xavier C. • Jose C. • Colin C. • Dakota C. • Giovanni C. • Leonardo C. • Charlotte C. • Bianka C. • Zoe C. • Hugh C. • Thomas C. • Ariana C. • Cloe C. • Giselle C. • Jelani C. • Anna C. • Sebastian D. • Frank D. • Erin D. • Angelica D. • Bryan D. • Tate D. • Henry D. • Elijah D.
Page 2 | June 15-July 14, 2020
• Liliana E. • Brady F. • Victor F. • Lily F. • Mia F. • Phoebe F. • David F. • Alicia F. • Ana F. • Atticus F. • Harper F. (DCIS) • Jack G. • Jeffrey G. • Ariela G. • Aspen G. • Adriana G. • Addison G. • Zoe G. • Jacob G. • Maya G. • Helen G. • Valeria G. • Sherlyn G. • John G. • Cameron G. • Lorenzo G. • Gabriela G. • Gabriel G. • Aiden G. • Ellary H. • Bryshaa H.
• Emilio H. • Daisy H. • Elsa H. • Lor H. • Markus H. • Julianah H. • Jose I. • Martin I. • Piper J. • Asher J. • Joaquin J. • Zachary K. • Jet K. • Vehha K. • Thomas K. • Landry K. • Ian K. • Lily K. • Gemma K. • Ethan K. • Genevieve K. • Heath L. • Heidi L. • Nolan L. • Aidan L. • Xzavion L. • Alicia L. • Aaron M. • Finnegan M. • Felix M. • Mariah M.
• Damien M. • Marissa M. • Isis M. • Destiny M. • Thelma M.s • Jonah M. • Finley M. • Alison M. • Catherine M. • Aidan M. • Albert (Anthony) M. • Marcos M. • Davien M. • Aaron M. • Leila M. • Michael M. • Emilio M. • Stephanie M. • Sadie M. • Alexandra M. • Xitlali N. • Ariana O. • Alicia O. • Edie O. • Adriana O. • Liam O. • Adamaris O. • Gwyneth O. • Olivia O. • Maestela O. • Maya P.
• Pablo P. • Kamber P. • Haleigh P. • Aa’niyah P. • Valerie P. • Roman P. • Jolianna P. • Emiliano P. • Jeremiah P. • Kyrstin P. • Liliana P. • Ovy P. • Aaron P. • Veronica R. • Maeve R. • Alegria R. • Marissa R. • Lasean R. • Reese R. • Kimberly R. • Abigail R. • Christian R. • Markus R. • Lesly R. • Isaac R. • Elijah R. • Amaiya R. • Romeo R. • Jocelyn R. • Uriyah R. • Monica R.
• Jesus S. • Dulce S. • Gabriella S. • Natalie S. • Diego S. • Eli S. • Ian S. • Devon S. • Jonathan S. • Sean S. • Samantha S. • Aiden S. • Silas S. • Jameson S. • Vahco S. • Fiona T. • Roman T. • Nisani T. • Justin T. • Jordan V. • David V. • Raul V. • Eddie V. • Dylan V. • Unique V. • Iyana W. • Desmond W. • Josephine W. • Tasheala W.
The Denver North Star
P OL I T I C S
SHAPING OUR FUTURE BY REMEMBERING OUR PAST
5 Questions to Consider Before Repealing the Gallagher Amendment C
olorado's constitution gives our legislature the power to refer changes to the constitution for the people to consider DENNIS GALLAGHER at ballot times. Two thirds of the legislators have to vote to put a referred measure on the ballot for the people's consideration. That's exactly what Senator Ron Stewart and I did back in the early 1980's. And over two thirds of our fellow legislators did the same to place a referred measure called the Gallagher Amendment on the ballot in 1982 for the people's consideration. Since then, Gallagher has been doing what it was supposed to do: make sure that residential property taxes do not rise above 45% of the total property tax pie in Colorado. The people voted 65% to 35% in that election to protect their residential tax rates from going through the roof. The people felt the amendment was fair. So now come two legislators, as allowed under their constitutional powers, State Senator Chris Hansen, D-Denver and State Representative Jack Tate, R-Centennial who have announced they will refer an amendment to the General Assembly to repeal the homeowner protection amendment. They are aiming for this November's
ballot. Even Governor Jared Polis has jumped aboard the effort. Voters should start studying legislators' hasty proposals now to make sure they understand what repeal of Gallagher means for their home taxes and for business taxes. And granted, there have been some issues with Gallagher and, as St. Augustine said long ago, "An unquestioned faith is a weak faith." While I am proud of the original intent of Gallagher to keep home property taxes manageable, let us see what changes Tate and Hansen come up with in their repeal of Gallagher. Let's see if they come up with something better. And will it be fair? Here are 5 questions voters should consider as we continue down this path to legislative repeal of protection of the middle class in Colorado's constitution. I confess I feel a little like the Mother Superior in the Sound of Music when she wondered what she could do about a problem like Sister Maria. "What are we going to do about a problem like Gallagher?" Let's review these study questions for the ultimate test on this November's ballot. As reasonable and rational people we will be anxious to see the results of their efforts. 1. Firstly, why have Tate and Hansen singled out homeowners for their tax repeal? I am informed that there are
over 160 tax breaks given to businesses in Colorado. Tax laws exempts tax on ink and printing paper for newspapers and even bull semen is exempted from tax for our cattle industry folks. I think home tax payers would appreciate the legislature questioning all of the business tax breaks afforded that class as they look to repeal the only protection given to middle class residential rate taxpayers. This is not fair at all. 2. Perhaps Hansen and Tate might want to look at a short term solution. Consider foregoing the two year assessment cycle and go to a 4 or 6-year cycle during the pandemic. I bet even our Libertarian-minded Governor might think this remedy in the short term will keep funds for schools as stable as possible during the downtime. 3. A big point being missed in all this is that the residential assessment ratio will go down because "all other" classes of property will decline in value. So supporters of repeal say they are trying to save the $450 million in residential taxes that would be lost if the residential assessment ratio goes down without saying that all other classes of property will have a $500 mil lion plus reduction in their taxes next year. So are we saying it's ok to have all See AMENDMENT, Page 5
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June 15-July 14, 2020 | Page 3
Primary Continued from Page 1 remote learning or modified school days where students spend only part of a normal school week in the school facility. Denver’s Congressional district 1 is currently represented by Democrat Dr. Valentina “Val” Flores, who won election in 2015. Six years ago, Flores won the primary in a surprise upset against a well-funded opponent. In another surprise upset, Flores fell short of the votes needed in the 2020 CD1 Democratic Assembly to make the June Primary ballot. Dr. Lisa Escárcega, the soon to be retired Executive Director of the Colorado Association of School Executives, and Donna Morganstern, a retired data analyst and accountability manager with the CDE, are both on the June Democratic primary ballot. We spoke with both candidates to discuss how they would represent North Denver if elected to the State Board of Education. COVID-19 AND THE IMPACT ON SCHOOL SCHEDULES NEXT FALL Based on guidance from the CDE, schools face a serious planning challenge for the coming school year, and need three different plans depending whether a school has a COVID-19 outbreak: Plan A: Traditional In-Person Learning Plan B: Hybrid In-Person and Remote Learning Plan C: Remote Learning Only For DPS, Plan A is the preferred option, but Plans B or C could be required at any time and schools may go back and forth between plans during the year. Lisa Escárcega supports school districts following the CDE recommendations that best suit their individual students’ needs. Escárcega suggests that the CDE can “continue to work with other states and the CDC to put out the best recommendations possible, look for any existing and future funding streams that could be used to support schools opening this fall and beyond, and review rules for potential waivers on requirements such as educator effectiveness and testing - anything that could allow schools to focus on re-entering students back into school this fall.” Donna Morganstern likes the idea of half of the students attending Monday and Tuesday, the other half Wednesday
PRIMARY ELECTION VOTING INFORMATION
PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. LISA ESCARCEGA
Donna Morganstern
and Thursday, and prefers that Fridays be devoted to in-school work with students with disabilities and English-language learners (ELL). Morganstern believes that the benefit of this modified schedule will be smaller class size, but she is concerned that it is unrealistic to keep children in the same classroom all day long. With teachers working in schools with half of the students each day, Morganstern assumes the remaining students will do remote learning, which means additional teachers and staff may be needed to work with the online students. “I agree that parents will have to make their own decisions regarding whether they want their children to continue remote learning, or move to in-person learning once that is possible,” said Morganstern.
es a ratio between the residential and commercial property tax revenue, the net effect being a decline in revenues collected from property tax) is our best chance at limiting the K-12 budget shortfall that will be worse in 2021-22. Escárcega said, “as a state board member I will advocate for no new unfunded mandates and the elimination of current unfunded mandates such as educator effectiveness (SB191). I will also be reviewing the increased staffing that has occured with the CDE over the past decade and not support any additional personnel requests.”
STATE BUDGET CUTS HIT K-12 HARD School districts will be dealing with an even greater crisis in funding. School districts are planning on a 15% cut in the portion of funding that comes from the State. Morganstern acknowledges that the budget issues are incredibly tough, and the CDE is limited in what it can do to help. CDE is subject to state law and has minimal authority to change the requirements placed on school districts. Morganstern believes this is the time for the Legislature, the SBoE, and CDE to work together to maximize funds for classroom instruction and fair wages for teachers and other school staff. “We must come together to take care of the basics before we do anything that is not absolutely necessary,” said Morganstern. Escárcega didn’t directly address the specific cuts but did talk about working with Fair Tax Colorado on a ballot initiative that would increase revenue for K-12 and other areas such as transportation. Escárcega believes a progressive tiered tax structure plus a change to the Gallagher Amendment (which enforc-
CONGRATULATIONS Cayden Clark-Johnson!
Congratulations!
Heading to Colorado State University to be part of the RAM FAM! We are proud of you Cade! Mommy and Momma
Heading to University of Northern Texas GO MEAN GREEN! We are proud of you, Mak!
Page 4 | June 15-July 14, 2020
PHOTO COURTESY OF DONNA MORGANSTERN
Dr. Lisa Escárcega
THE CANDIDATES TALK ABOUT THEIR CAMPAIGNS Escárcega has earned high profile endorsements including the Colorado Education Association (CEA is the statewide teachers’ union) and the Colorado Working Families Party, a progressive labor-aligned advocacy organizatoin. Her campaign has raised the most in-state money and has the largest number of donors in this race. She believes that her number of volunteers and fundraising ability gives her campaign a strong path to victory. Morganstern said, “I decided to run for office because I was so tired of watching the same people move from position to position...and nothing ever changed. I was also very frustrated watching State Board members grappling with issues, policies, and data they didn't understand fully and make decisions based on that partial understanding.” She is confident that her past experience working with data analysis at CDE makes her better able to understand and utilize the data as a member of the SBoE. Morganstern is her campaign’s largest donor. Morganstern said, “I have been very fortunate in many aspects of my life and am in a position to do something to serve the greater good, not my personal benefit. Serving on the State Board of Education is where I can
Primary ballots were mailed starting June 8. • Democrats and Republicans receive ballots for their respective parties. • Unaffiliated voters receive both and can return one. • June 15: Elections office (downtown) opens as a vote center. • June 22: Other vote centers open across the city. • June 22: Last day to update your registration to receive a ballot by mail. • June 22: Last day to return your ballot by mail. After this day, the Clerk’s office recommends returning ballots via drop-boxes only to ensure delivery. • June 29: Additional vote centers open across the city. • June 30: Last day to vote -- Ballots must be received by 7pm. For more information, please visit www.denvervotes.org/voterinfo or call 311.
24 HOUR DROP OFF LOCATIONS IN NORTH DENVER
• Denver Police Department District 1 - 1311 W 46th Ave • Highland Recreation Center 2880 N Osceola St • Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch Library - 1498 N Irving St • Scheitler Recreation Center 5031 W 46th Ave
make the greatest contribution.” Candidates self-funding their campaigns do not always carry the stigma it once had, as evidenced by Governor Jared Polis and, more locally, Southeast Denver school board member Scott Baldermann, both of whom heavily financed their own campaigns. Escárcega was previously the director of the Colorado Association of School Executives, an advocacy group for principals and district administrators. Regarding the apparent tension between the Association she’s leaving and her current endorsement from the teachers’ union, Escárcega said, “I have been navigating 'tensions' between various groups. Whether it's between school boards and administrations, administrations and teachers, or legislators and advocacy groups, this is how I have earned the respect of so many. I do it by showing up, listening and being respectful to all views and never compromising on my values which includes putting students first.”
Makenna Clark-Johnson!
Mommy and Momma
The Denver North Star
HE A LT H & W E L L N E S S
COMMUNITY WELLNESS INSTIGATOR
Amendment
Here Comes the Sun W
hen I started this column weeks ago, it was on a topic that I get riled up about every June ERIKA TAYLOR - swimsuit readiness. All of a sudden, out of nowhere, we’d reached that point of the year where we usually start to fret about buying a swimsuit. The body we've been wrapping in sweats all winter (even more than usual this year!) will soon be on display. That was mid-May. Back then, the most important thing was figuring out how to celebrate my kid’s birthday while maintaining social distancing. Just goes to show how fast things can change. While this isn’t a current events column, our health is so affected by the environment we live in, we must take the current climate of violent unrest into consideration as we decide how to focus our wellness attention. So I wondered if the title “Here Comes the Sun” was a bit too light. But guess what? The sun doesn’t care one bit what we have going on down here. It is coming out. It did today and it will again tomorrow. And in June, here in Denver, regardless of the larger context, the sun will get hotter, the temperatures will rise and we will want to shed layers. That sound you hear? It’s the avalanche of “summer is coming” advertising content flooding the internet, magazines, TV and every other nook possible. Even this year, it is happening. You know the type of advertising I’m talking about: “Get your body beach ready!” Beauty brands hawking
cellulite-busting creams and potions. Friends posting status updates about their weight loss progress accompanied by the obligatory swimsuit shots. Supplements that promise to give you that swimsuit body in just days with no diet or exercise necessary. This is not a new thing. In 1961 a magazine ad proclaimed "Summer's wonderful fun is for those who look young…High firm bust, hand span waist, trim, firm hips, slender graceful legs - a Bikini Body!” The concept of the swimsuit body is nothing more than a myth constructed to make profit from our insecurities. The “bikini body” traps consumers into believing they must change to be acceptable. Some behaviors recommended by this sort of advertising, like eating well and exercising can be effective wellness tools. But health is not the main goal of a “7 Day Bikini Body Cellulite Reduction Challenge,” or “Rock Hard Abs in 5 Minutes a Day.” Our obsession with looking “beach ready” just shows how normalized objectification is. One Twitter poll reports that 63% of respondents have avoided going somewhere public due to self-consciousness regarding their body in a swimsuit. Let me say that again: Well over half of people surveyed have avoided going out because they were ashamed of how they looked. So how can we change that? We can start by abandoning the idea of the perfect swimsuit body. As a society, we must become more accepting and loving, and it has to start
with accepting ourselves. We can find validation in our talents, skills and the way we improve the lives of others instead of chasing happiness by emulating a person in a magazine. We can embrace our wellness practice as a gift to our current and future selves. Hydrate, eat well, move, sleep, breathe and connect. Not because some TV show tells us to, but because it is so much more possible to do the things we want and need to do in this world when we are well. Normally I would close a message like this by saying, “Remember, there are only two steps to having a swimsuit body: One - buy a swimsuit. Two - put it on your body.” But things aren’t normal. So if that voice in the back of your head worrying about whether your belly is hanging out over your swim trunks inspires you to make positive choices that support your wellness, great. But if it causes you to abandon hope and give up your wellness practice because you are sure you will never reach some sort of bikini body ideal - then even though it isn’t easy, remind that voice that if we can’t accept and honor ourselves, we can’t possibly accept and honor anyone else. Which - right now - seems like a pretty important thing for us, as a species, to figure out how to do. Erika Taylor is a community wellness instigator at Taylored Fitness. Visit facebook.com/erika.taylor.303 or email erika@tayloredfitness.com.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DENNIS GALLAGHER
Then Legislator Dennis Gallagher
Continued from Page 3 others pay less in taxes but residential property owners have to keep paying what they paid before? Is this not a tax increase on residential property both next year and in the future if residential property was going to be reduced because of the reduction in the residential assessment ratio? One of the most persuasive arguments for Gallagher in 1982 was that Coloradans saw it as fair. 4. If Hansen and Tate simply repeal Gallagher does that not allow for home property taxes to increase the residential side of the property tax pie? Friends, don't be misled, this effort is all about increasing home taxes and the legislature should be clear on how much home taxes will increase under their proposals. 5. The final question voters should ask is how much more do you want homeowners to pay in property taxes so business classes can pay less? Tate and Hansen have to answer this question to persuade voters their changes are fair. Voters get ready for the test on the November ballot. Let's see what the legislature comes up with. The people of Colorado are the final judges on any changes to their state constitution. The Honorable Dennis Gallagher is a former city auditor, city councilman, state senator and state representative sharing thoughts and stories from North Denver’s past and future.
H E ALT H & W E LL N E S S
Older Drivers Stay in the Driver’s Seat
A
ging brings a host of twists and turns. But after decades of navigating change, older adults KATHRYN WHITE have established ways of being ready for the next thing coming around the corner. Changes to driving habits are among many adjustments made as life unfolds. As it turns out, the older driver who stays in tune with shifts in their body and surroundings—and adapts accordingly—is a much safer driver and stays in the driver’s seat longer. It’s this ability to re-calibrate that Consumer Reports says makes older drivers generally safer than their counterparts at the other end of the age continuum, teens and drivers in their early 20’s.1 Only after age 85 do drivers start to experience car crash statistics higher than drivers under 29. Sunnyside octogenarian Ellen Pelton has made refinements that work for her. She moved to North Denver a few years ago from a small town in New Mexico and loves now living close to her daughter. But Denver is a much bigger place than her previous home, so she’s decided to stay within her comfort zone, keeping to neighborhood streets and familiar locations. The Denver North Star
Jill Couch, an occupational therapist with Pro31 Safe Senior Driver LLC, emphasizes that driving plays a pivotal role in three of the most important factors in healthy aging: social connections, mental stimulation and physical activity. Couch’s work focuses on concrete steps a driver can take to prolong their driving career. Her company offers a 3-hour in-home self-assessment for those ready to seriously strengthen their driving (or for drivers looking for an expert to help them determine if it’s time to give it up the keys altogether). She was happy to share a few tips. COUCH’S ADVICE? • Be proactive. • Let your children and other people know what you’re doing to stay active and safe on the road. Keep up an exercise routine, especially one focused on fall prevention. • Get your vision checked regularly. • And, importantly, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether side effects of your medications might impair driving. You can visit www.roadwiseRX. com to plug in your specific medications and learn about interactions between them and how driving can be impacted. Pelton echoes Couch’s last tip. If
she adds or changes a medication, she reads warning paperwork carefully and watches for physical changes like dizziness, drowsiness or anything that might cloud her thinking or lead to weakness in her arms or legs. Nonagenarian Elly Lindstrom, a North Denver native and Harkness Heights resident since 1951, gave up driving six years ago. Macular degeneration had led to declining vision, so she knew the day would come when she’d have to hang up her keys. “It was a hard decision. It changes everything,” she reflected. “You need to plan ahead when you can’t just pop out for what you need. But you do get used to it. It’s not a problem for me anymore.” Lindstrom gave up driving after a minor car crash. It was a scary experience, though no one was seriously hurt. She gave the car to her grandson and moved on from the hassle and expense of car repairs and maintenance. I asked Pelton The Million Dollar Question: How would you know if it were time to hang up the keys? It was an easy question for her: If, God forbid, she had an accident or came close. Or if a medication got in the way. Anything else? “Oh yeah,” she says, laughing, “If my daughter says so.”
Kathryn has lived in North Denver since around the time the Mount Carmel High School building was razed. She teaches a SilverSneakers fitness class at Highland Senior Recreation Center and facilitates a Caregiver Support Group for the Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter. Do you have story ideas for The Gray Zone? Email thegrayzone.denvernorthstar@gmail.com. NOTE ON COVID-19 If you’ve been off the road for a while connected to COVID-19, consider these last few tips before you get back behind the wheel: Ease back into an in-home exercise routine that focuses on fall-prevention and range of motion. Look back over the last few months and consider changes to medications and side effects. Bring a friend or family member along for those first few trips. Notice changes in your body or surroundings? Adapt accordingly. I know you will. In the next few months we’ll explore alternative transportation services available in the neighborhood. 1 https://www.consumerreports.org/ elderly-driving/how-seniors-aredriving-safer-driving-longer/ June 15-July 14, 2020 | Page 5
H E ALT H & W E LL N E S S
Denver Water Working to Get the Lead Out (Of Home Pipes) By David Sabados
D
enver Water began allowing homes to use galvanized steel and copper pipes instead of lead in 1951. In 1971, Denver banned lead pipes in customer-owned service lines and by 1986 Congress had banned lead pipes across the country, so it may be surprising that somewhere between 64,000 and 84,000 homes in Denver are receiving help for lead in their water, including many in North Denver. While the city’s pipes that bring water to individual properties are lead-free, older pipes that connect a privately owned home or other building to the city’s water supply may be lead-lined. “There is no lead in the water Denver Water delivers to customers,” said Jose Salas, a spokesperson for Denver Water. Salas explained that many older homes still have their original service lines and owners never replaced them, so the city is offering to do it instead. While replacements were often done while conducting other service work, Denver Water is now proactively replacing service lines. They expect replacing all lead service lines will take up to 15 years, so in the mean-
time, Denver Water is giving away Brita pitchers for residents to use. The lead reduction program will cost an estimated $500 million dollars over the decade and half, but Salas said customers won’t see any additional costs -- the program is paid for with existing tap fees, hydroelectric power generation proceeds, and similar funds. Newer homes built after older homes were demolished, often called “scrapes,” are less likely to have lead service pipes according to Salas, as builders are required to replace the lead lines during construction. Individuals should consult with their builder to ensure the lines were actually replaced, however. Denver Water has also adjusted the pH level of the water from approximately 7.8 to 8.8 with an “additive that protects the pipes from corroding,” according to Salas. “Customers won’t see any difference in the taste or water.” He also said the change is positive for the overall water supply and minimizes the impact on downstream users. Gardeners may find the change in pH requires them to adapt slightly. The pH (an abbreviation for pondus Hydrongenii) scales measures acid-
PHOTO BY DAVID SABADOS
Residents across Denver are finding boxes like these on their porches with water filtering pitchers, paid for by Denver Water
ity vs alkalinity. 7 is considered neutral. High pH levels in the water can impact a plant’s ability to consume nutrients and gardeners may want to discuss additives or other options with their local garden center. Denver Water has created an in-
teractive map as part of their website where residents can look up their specific address to see if it is likely they have lead pipes. The map and other information is available at https://www.denverwater.org/ your-water/water-quality/lead.
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Page 6 | June 15-July 14, 2020
The Denver North Star
A RTS & C ULT URE
Hit Pause, Then Play: North Denver’s Entertainment Venues Look to the Future By David Sabados
“I
’d like to have the bands play in the tent,” said Niya Gingerich, owner of Local 46 at 46th and Tennyson Street. Gingerich and other venue owners are trying to adapt to a world of social distancing and limited indoor entertainment. Two things she thinks can help her succeed are her bar’s outdoor Biergarten as well as a parking lot that could theoretically turn into space for guests instead of cars -- two things many venues don’t have. These two assets are most helpful if she can extend her cabaret license to include more shows outside. Having canceled all indoor shows through the rest of 2020, she’s hoping to sell assigned table seating outside, which would let households and other groups sit together while keeping space from strangers -- an odd concept for many music fans who are accustomed to packed rooms. “It was live music indoors, five nights a week. Musicians were waiting up to a year for a spot” before the shutdown, Gingerich said. While her license allows for 10 days of “special events” outside, she’s hoping the city will speed up allowing businesses to use more outdoor space continually. Josh Mulroney, a promoter who books bands at local venues including Tennyson’s Tap at the other end of the Tennyson cultural district, said different venues are all looking for different ways to open back up. He’s concerned smaller venues may not survive if they can’t meaningfully reopen in the near future. He says while some landlords have delayed payments, the bills pile up and are
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be requiring customers to wear masks and are taking other precautions. North Denver’s largest private venue, the Oriental Theater, started looking for alternative revenue streams as soon as the city and state closed businesses. “One of the first things we did was come up with specialized merch we could sell,” said Scott Happel, the Oriental’s General Manager and a partner in the business. They quickly sold out of t-shirts that joked the venue was closed due to “toilet paper shortage.” They sold passes for future shows. They raised enough to give their hourly staff some pay, and they waited. They were able to receive a federal PPP loan but, as with other venues, they knew that they needed revenue -- not just loans and deferments. The largest potential revenue stream is a project The Oriental staff launched at the start of June: paid
of live performances, lectures, and local independent theater screenings. As a nonprofit venue, they have been trying to tap into alternative resources. “It has been really nice to see so many grant options from places like Colorado Creative Industries, the SCFD and other local granting organizations,” said Deb FlombergRollins, Marketing Director for the Bug Theatre. “In addition, we have shirt sales and gift cards available for those looking to help us out. Plus, we have done one weekend curb-side concession sale, where patrons were able to place orders for concessions and pick them up to take home.” Regarding reopening, FlombergRollins said they are closely following city and state guidelines. “Ideally, we’ll be able to open with social distancing procedures in place,” said Flomberg-Rollins. “We know that will be at partial capacity, but part of what makes The Bug such a special place is the people that visit us. We want to be able to be that place again for our community, as soon as it is safe to do so.” Before then, The Bug is hoping North Denver residents who value the venue will step up to make sure they reach their reopening date. “It feels like a lot to ask right now, considering everything else going on, but financially is what kind of support we need the most.”
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waiting for owners when they reopen. “You don’t have to pay it right now but it doesn’t go away,” said Mulroney. Live music venues generally have large spaces which means higher rent in an increasingly expensive city. Mulroney said the bands are being hit hard too. “People are doubtful, they are anxious, and there’s a lot of anxiety,” explaining that bands often get paid based on the size of the crowd they can bring in. As venues reopen, their capacity will be severely limited, and there’s still a question about whether the fans will be comfortable coming back right away. He said venues he’s talked with will The Denver North Star
PHOTO BY DAVID SABADOS
content through OnlyFans.com, an online service that connects content producers and fans, who can see exclusive content for a subscription. Happel said The Oriental is bringing out some big names, including Nathan Maxwell from the Irish punk band Flogging Molly. Happel hopes fans of The Oriental will enjoy some of the same artists they would see at the venue at home, entertaining would-be concert goers and bringing revenue into the business until they can reopen. Over on the 3600 block of Navajo, The Bug Theatre also sits empty. The Bug’s usual line up includes a mix
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June 15-July 14, 2020 | Page 7
DINING
By Basha Cohen
I
n order to help struggling restaurants as they reopen with restricted indoor seating capacity, the city is taking it to the streets. Since April, neighborhood BIDs, RNOs, City Council members, Denver City organizations, Denver Street Partnership, and local community organizers and urban planners have been proposing a steady stream of street activation goals. At the urging of battered food and beverage businesses led by Dan Shah, Director of the West Colfax BID, Mayor Hancock approved a plan to begin taking applications for patio extensions on sidewalks, alleys and parking lots to promote additional outdoor seating through September 7. Over 400 applications were received during the month of May, and city “navigators” are tasked with reviewing and approving plans at an accelerated speed, although many restaurants still bemoan the lack of response due to the clog in the system. Edgewater has beat Denver to the punch with a comprehensive patio expansion plan that launched on May 29. It includes a one way traffic system and the closure of one lane on 25th Avenue between Sheridan Blvd and Benton Street to allow for patio expansion into the streets in front of local coffee houses, bars and restaurants. Social distancing norms and copious sanitization policies are being adhered to in order to make the summer a safe, outdoor affair. Creative approaches to support neighborhoods are flourishing in other Northwest Denver neighborhoods, too. The Federal Business Improvement District (BID) model headed by Leslie Twarogowski used funds set aside for the Jefferson Park Farm and Flea to help finance local businesses that never received any Payroll Protection Plan (PPP) funding. “We need to pull together in every way we can to support and sustain our local businesses,” Twarogowski said. She is working with the Denver Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) and local merchants to activate the block of 25th between Federal Blvd and Eliot Street, by deactivating traffic. It potentially would limit traffic to local residents and provide greater pedestrian and bicycle safety. It would also allow restaurants greater street space to spread out due to the diminished indoor capacity required for restau-
Inside Out rants. Twarogowki explains, “The overall project is funded through voter-approved Elevate Denver Bond Program. The bond will give us $2.85 million to spend in our BID, but DOTI will decide exactly where that is spent between West 23rd & West 27th Streets on the Federal Boulevard corridor. Regardless, during the COVID crisis, the BID has the funds to temporarily alter West 25th and hopefully that change will be made permanent with the bond funding.” Matthew Bossler and Tony Smith, two early leaders of “Denver Streets as Marketplaces” are working to activate the outdoors to support Denver businesses. They are helping spearhead changes on W. 32nd Avenue. They have conceptualized plans with the Highland Merchant Association and maintenance district to create a hybrid mix of an open and shared street concept. For years the business district has flirted with the idea of creating a more closed, plaza-like environment. “Because the corridor is considered a collector street, and as such, a major thoroughfare for east and westbound traffic, and further includes the 32 bus route, this is a heavy lift, and flexibility and support from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) the fire department, and RTD is essential,” according to Bossler. That said, the pandemic has created an opportunity to think outside of the box and toward a longer term view of what our neighborhoods could look like. Other businesses along the West Colfax corridor, Tennyson Street and 44th Avenue have been amongst the early applicants for patio expansions. While many restaurants are still focusing on to-go and delivery models, a tour of Sloan’s Lake and LoHi on opening restaurant weekend, May 30, showed patio season was up and running at a socially distanced “full” capacity from food and bev favorites like Sloan’s Tap & Burger, Seedstock Brewery, Dimestore Deli Bar, Maci Cafe, Linger’s infamous rooftop and Little Man’s plaza. Dan Shah reflects, “In spite of all of our hard work to reopen businesses, we have to acknowledge that people are still a little freaked out and disconcerted. I think it will pass, but it's going to take a minute for people to want to start going out again. We just need to do everything in our power to make people feel safe.”
Zuni Street Brewing Company 2355 W. 29th Avenue
Page 8 | June 15-July 14, 2020
PHOTOS BY BASHA COHEN
Tap & Burger Sloan's Lake, 1565 Raleigh Street is in full patio swing
Jefferson Park is taking it to the streets with expanded patio seating on 25th Avenue
The City of Edgewater has rerouted traffic on 25th Ave to make way for additional outdoor seating
Salt & Grinder, 3609 W. 32nd Avenue
Seedstock Brewery 3610 W. Colfax Avenue
The Denver North Star
DINING
By Basha Cohen
Farm Fresh Summer is Back
C
indy Koder, one of North Denver’s most beloved hair stylists whose radiant inner beauty keeps her regulars grounded, looked around the Highland Farmers Market on opening day, took in a deep breath, and smiled, “This makes me happy.” After months of being cooped up, and then stirred up, in the anxiety ridden aftermath of protest marches and violence, there was indeed something calming about a “normal” Sunday morning in the Highlands. The Highland Market, part of the Real Farmers Markets operated by Kelly Miller and local merchants on 32nd between Lowell and Meade opened May 31. It is the only North Denver Farmers Market open this summer, as of this writing. In the face of the pandemic, the operation of Farmers Markets has been under intense scrutiny and revisionism, just like every other food & beverage business in the post-Covid reopening era. Luckily the outdoor markets have been deemed “essential” and are opening throughout Colorado spreading some fresh cheer for farmers and shoppers alike. For those who are still jittery about
leaving home, online ordering is part of the new norm. Rules have changed over and over as Farmers Markets tried to get on their feet like newborn calves. Miller noted, “Getting the permits was a challenge to say the least.” At the 11th hour on Saturday, May 30 she got a call from the Department of Health that regulations were being lightened up for the street shopping experience. Originally no one was allowed to select their own produce. No ice and no tablecloths were permitted. Tents were intended to only line one side of the streets and no gift, jewelry, craft or apparel vendors were allowed to sell their wares. That will all change in June, relaxing many of those initial guidelines. What is still required of attendees in the 2020 Farmers Markets include: wearing a mask, following set entry and exit points, social distancing in lines, utilizing hand sanitizer stations, following the arrows to keep the flow of traffic from congregating, as well as no alcohol, common tables or live music (yet). Miller reflected on the opening day, “My takeaway from today, is it was better than expected for sure.
Although we usually have 63-70 vendors compared to 47 this year, we scaled down on purpose for our best, essential vendors in every category. It’s not about the quantity, but the quality.” Gorgeous plump tomatoes, fresh flowers, hand-crafted pastas, exotic pickles, cheese, fresh baked bread and tamales scented the air. Ironically, one of the longest lines at the market was for organic meat that has been a rarity of late. I jokingly suggested to Miller that she sell toilet paper at the next one. You can’t beat one stop shopping when it’s all in stock. She continued, “The community was so appreciative and gracious. It wasn’t overcrowded like opening days can be. It was enough, but not too much. I want everyone to feel respected and safe. Everyone wore masks, kept their distance and truly played their part in re-entering with care. I truly hope we will be able to reintroduce music and support our local musicians later this summer, but we are looking forward to being a part of the Highland community and bringing farm fresh products to the table.” The Northside is happy, too.
FIVE FAVORITE LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD FARMERS MARKETS The Highland Market-32nd & Lowell-Sundays 9 a.m-1 p.m.: May 31-October 11 Union Station, 17th &Wynkoop - Saturdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: June-October 24th Four Seasons Farmers and Artisans Market7043 West 38th Avenue Wheat Ridge, Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Tuesday-Friday 12-4 p.m.; Open year round South Pearl Street Farmers Market-Entry on Florida & Pearl St. Sundays, 9 a.m-1 p.m.; May 23-November 15 Colorado Fresh Markets in Cherry Creek-1st & UniversitySaturdays 8 a.m.-1 p.m: June 6-November 14
PHOTOS BY BASHA COHEN
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June 15-July 14, 2020 | Page 9
DINING
North Denver Restaurant Owner Gets 1.2 Million Signatures on Petition
By David Sabados
“P
eople who have never been unemployed in their lives are reaching out for help in ways they never have before,” said Stephanie Bonin. Bonin owns Duo restaurant at 32nd and Zuni along with her husband Keith Arnold and other partners. For the past few weeks, however, she’s been better known as the woman who started an online petition that’s garnered more than 1.2 million signatures. Bonin closed her restaurant the night before Governor Polis ordered businesses across the state to shutter. “There was no easy decision,” said Bonin. “There was an obvious decision for public health.” Once they closed, she began to think through finances for her family and her staff, all of whom were suddenly unemployed. “We weren’t eligible for unemployment,” Bonin said of her and her husband. After talking with an economics friend, she decided to start a petition on the website Change.org to create a $2,000 monthly payment to everyone in the country for the duration of the coronavirus crisis. Bonin calls the idea an “economic stabilizer.” The idea of stimulus payments isn’t new of course; Congress passed a bill
to give individuals $1,200 stimulus payments earlier this year. What’s new is the attention the idea is getting from people who never considered sustained payments before, even only a few months ago when (then) presidential candidate Andrew Yang campaigned on the idea of Universal Basic Income (UBI). Bonin said her own views on the issue have evolved as well. “At the beginning it felt like a band-aid,” said Bonin, who came to see the idea not just as needed to replace income lost in the pandemic, but to create a baseline safety net for Americans before and after crises as well. Her activism also landed her a spot on the online news program The Appeal, where she was part of a virtual town hall alongside Sen. Kamala Harris and Andrew Yang. Back in North Denver, Bonin’s restaurant reopened at the start of June. She joked the 15 year old restaurant makes them “grandparents of the Denver dining scene” and she wants customers to know it’s the same broad array of menu options they know with some changes to how they work, including online ordering -- something they never found necessary prior to the shutdown. Small changes, like online or-
OPEN for Take-Out and Delivery Orders (during the restaurant and bar shutdown)
Find our menu at elcaminotavern.com Please call us at 720.889.7946 to place orders.
Thank you for your support during this difficult time!
HANNAH EV
Antira an antira tions or Ibram this defin book Ho One Wo tivating tional lo argues, w of our a we choo “not-raci icies and (upholdi group is or antir PHOTO BY DAVID LYNN that all Stephanie Bonin, an owner of Duo restaurant in North Denver, has become that non an advocate for more direct stimulus payments during the pandemic others). Duo restaurant is currently opendefined t dering, are part of a broader conversation including changes like Wednesday through Saturdayappear e increased social safety nets. “Some nights and Saturday and Sundayupon, bu tions, an of those smart things we’re think- for brunch. Bonin’s advice on helping the localprove tim ing of right now are a better way of doing things,” said Bonin, noting economy recover? “Go to every localcate the that the pandemic forced business store you can. The difference of two Kendi’ leaders and government officials to more people walking in the doorgates top can’t be underestimated.” class, gen be more innovative. fering a about an weaving ences an tim and tions and us on h understa adding analysis. amining impacts our lives that striv tinual pr ly navig are surr as visible private each of u we stand WE RE OPEN FOR DINE-IN! requires
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A huge thank you to the community for supporting us! Page 10 | June 15-July 14, 2020
The Denver North Star
A RTS & C ULT URE
CHECKING OUT
How to Be An Antiracist
R
acist: One who is supporting a racist policy through their actions or inaction or expressing a HANNAH EVANS racist idea. Antiracist: One who is supporting an antiracist policy through their actions or expressing an antiracist idea. Ibram X. Kendi clearly outlines this definition in the beginning of his book How to Be An Antiracist (2019, One World). This thorough but captivating book outlines an intersectional look at antiracism. As Kendi argues, we must pick a side with each of our actions, ideas, and the things we choose to support. There are no “not-racist” policies or ideas – all policies and ideas can be viewed as racist (upholding the belief that one racial group is better or worse than others) or antiracist (upholding the belief that all racial groups are equal and ecome that none are better or worse than others). When it is written out and defined this clearly, these definitions appear easy to comprehend and to act upon, but our biases, habits, assumptions, and the structures around us prove time and time again to complicate the issue. Kendi’s writing powerfully navigates topics such as ethnicity, color, class, gender, sexuality, and more, offering a framework for how to think about and interpret antiracism while weaving in his own personal experiences and struggles as both the victim and the perpetrator of racist actions and beliefs. Kendi bravely takes us on his own personal journey to understand and strive for antiracism, adding a human narrative to his analysis. His courageousness in examining himself while dissecting the impacts of racism on all aspects of our lives and our communities show that striving for antiracism is a continual process that we must constantly navigate. Kendi points out, “We are surrounded by racial inequity, as visible as the law, as hidden as our private thoughts. The question for each of us is: What side of history will we stand on? … Being an antiracist N! requires persistent self-awareness,
d are also ING!
constant self-criticism, and regular self-examination.” While it is no doubt challenging, How to Be An Antiracist offers a clear framework and a compelling narrative to both guide as well as remind us of the importance of this work. During these disturbing and emotional times in Denver and across the country, it is easy to feel helpless and overwhelmed. One of the many ways we can show up for those around us is to continue to educate ourselves, to stay informed, and to challenge inequity wherever we find it. Reading books like How to Be An Antiracist offers the tools to do just that, and is as important in this moment as ever. You can check out How to Be An Antiracist online as an ebook through denverlibrary.org – it is also available as an eaudiobook narrated captivatingly by the author. This book is also available in print at your closest library branch once it reopens. MORE ANTIRACIST RESOURCES AVAILABLE THROUGH DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY Looking for more information during these challenging times? Consider the suggestions below, and visit our website at denverlibrary.org for more information, blog posts, and book lists on antiracist topics. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to the library on social media, by submitting a Personalized Reading List request (https://www.denverlibrary. org/reads), or by chatting, emailing, or calling to let us know what you would like to see from your local library – you can find contact information at denverlibrary.org/ask. · Denver is home to the Blair Caldwell African American Research Li-
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THE FIRST PORTABLE INFORMATION DEVICE. brary, featuring archives and primary sources on African Americans in Colorado and the American West. Find out more information and access digital archives at history.denverlibrary.org/blair. · For information on talking to children about race, visit kids.denverlibrary.org/racetalk and discover books for all age groups as well as discussion tips. · Denver Public Library is currently holding a Virtual Social Justice Book Club once a month – the next meeting will be on Wednesday, June 24th from 6-7pm. This month’s book is Exit West by Mohsin Hamid. More information and registration is available at denverlibrary.org/events. · Denver Public Library is also a partner library for Noname’s Book Club, which is an “online/IRL community dedicated to uplifting POC voices” and which highlights two books every month written by authors of color. Find more information at nonamebooks.com.
Christobal F. Sandoval, member of WHO’S WHO Historical Society in Public Service, is happy to give a $2,000 scholarship to Nicholas W. Gallegos, who plans to attend Colorado Mesa University.
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A warm welcome back to our loyal friends and customers! We look forward to seeing you and serving you again!
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS!
North High School Alumni Scholarship Foundation president Isaac Solana and committee member Christobal F. Sandoval would like to congratulate the 33 applicants who will share $73,023 in scholarships this year. GO VIKINGS!
The Denver North Star is safely hand-delivered to
Hannah Evans is the senior librarian at the Smiley Branch of the Denver Public Library.
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Elks Lodge 17 Chair Christobal F. Sandoval and committee have given a $1,000 scholarship to Isabella Daily, who plans to attend CU Boulder. Photo courtesy of North High School Alumni Community Left to right-Joe DeRose, Christobal Sandoval, Elisa Cohen, Issac Solano
The Denver North Star
June 15-July 14, 2020 | Page 11
C OM M UN I T Y
By Basha Cohen
Bursting with Northside Viking Pride for the Class of 2020
A
fter an abrupt ending to life as we knew it, one of the most stressful fallouts was for our seniors at North High School. After thirteen years of education, and the promise of a spring semester sparkling with senior pranks, ditch days, prom and an almighty graduation, it was a devastating blow to the Class of 2020. Thanks to Kroenke Sports Charities and the Pepsi
Center, alongside the entire North High School faculty, the Viking Class of 2020 was treated to arguably one of the best memories of their entire life on May 28. The Kroenke family rolled out the purple carpet, donating a glorious balloon entry to the drivethrough graduation parade. Students and families were treated to a dazzling welcome by the Nuggets Cheerleaders, furry and hot mas-
cots from the Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Rapids and Denver Nuggets, a drumline and a DJ that kept the party and the wildly decorated cars rolling. A drone camera captured the experience for a lifetime of movie memories by Altitude TV. Teachers held congratulatory signs and screamed with joy as the zigzagging car caravan made their way through the throngs. Tears and cheers filled the day as each
By Kathe
LASAG Let’s fa graduate received their diploma bywithout Principal Scott Wolf and his Vikinging in je “Quaranteam.” With their diplomaknow w in one hand, Little Man Ice Creamhot, dry gave them a final sweet treat in theyour gar other as they left the Pepsi Center toattention embark on their next great adven-a sunscre ture. To the amazing class of 2020,trols wee you truly defined the Viking Spiritture, an in a year of such adversity. We arewill slow so proud of you! Watch out world,chocolate here you come. gna mulc anytime 1. Soak y 2. Add a post (I and moi 3. Add a worm cr board ar starts (se them. Yo ly over w to suffoc 4. Add a post and 5. Add a at Wardl has seeds up easily Repeat gna mul PHOTO BY MICHAEL MARTIN, 303SPORTS.COM
PHOTO BY BASHA COHEN
PHOTO BY MICHAEL MARTIN, 303SPORTS.COM
PHOTO BY BASHA COHEN
PHOTO BY BASHA COHEN
PHOTO BY MICHAEL MARTIN, 303SPORTS.COM
Page 12 | June 15-July 14, 2020
PHOTO BY MICHAEL MARTIN, 303SPORTS.COM
The Denver North Star
C OM M UN I T Y
Three Things to Do in the Garden Right Now By Katherine Cornwell
LASAGNA MULCH Let’s face it; gardening in Colorado loma bywithout lasagna mulching is like skis Vikinging in jeans. It’s just not done if you diplomaknow what you’re doing. Colorado’s e Creamhot, dry summers and clay soils mean at in theyour gardens’ wardrobe needs some Center toattention. Lasagna mulching acts like t adven-a sunscreen for your soil, plus it conof 2020,trols weeds, helps the soil retain moisng Spiritture, and attracts earthworms, who We arewill slow till your soil into a crumbly ut world,chocolate cake-like consistency. Lasagna mulching is easy. Use this no fail, anytime method to improve your soil: 1. Soak your garden plot. 2. Add a thick layer of mature compost (I love to use llama beans*) and moisten. 3. Add a layer of cardboard (aka earthworm crack). Carefully lay the cardboard around the base of vegetable starts (seedlings) to avoid smothering them. You can, however, layer it directly over weeds that haven’t gone to seed to suffocate them. Moisten again. 4. Add another layer of mature compost and moisten. 5. Add a layer of straw (you can find it at Wardles) and moisten. If the straw has seeds, it will sprout, but these pull up easily. Repeat the process in the fall. Lasagna mulching in the fall means you
Celebrating a Century of Faith S By Mary Lou Egan
lovenian and Croatian immigrants in Denver, as well as Slavic communities in Pueblo and Leadville, painstakingly raised the funds to build a church of their own and looked forward to the dedication ceremony planned for Sunday, April 18, 1920. The Preseren Glee Club from Pueblo was to sing the Mass, several Slovenian societies, as well as the Knights of St. John, and clergy from both Colorado and Wyoming were expected. But on Friday, April 16th, snow began to fall steadily across Colorado and reached a depth of nineteen inches by Saturday afternoon. Trains and streetcars were unable to run and so the ceremony was rescheduled for July 4, 1920. Sunday, July 4, was a glorious day. As Bishop Tihen blessed the building, he praised the parishioners for their sacrifices and reminded them that poor people, rather than princes, built the great churches of Europe. Since its dedication, Holy Rosary has nourished the faith of its congregation and the Globeville neighborhood. Holy Rosary was set to commemorate this milestone on Sunday July 12, 2020, but has tentatively rescheduled the celebration for October. For further updates, please visit: www.holyrosarydenver.com Facebook www.facebook.com/HolyRosaryChurchDenver/ The Denver North Star
can add hot compost (organic matter that has not broken down yet) because it will break down over the winter, and consider more elaborate layers including greenery, apples, hot manure, peat moss, etc. A Google search of “lasagna” or “sheet” mulching will reveal as many recipes as a room full of Italian grandmothers’ discussing their favorite pasta dish. *Llama beans, aka poop, is easy to find on Craigslist, and many ranchers will happily deliver if you pay a delivery fee. Unlike other manures, llama manure comes out of the animal fully composted owing to the journey through the animal’s five stomachs. SUCKER YOUR TOMATOES Do you dream of BLTs with big juicy tomato slices? The secret to enormous tomatoes is to sucker your plants. As indeterminate or vine tomatoes grow, you will find suckers, small new shoots, sprouting between each branch and the main vine. Pluck these mothersuckers when they are small and it will conserve the plants energy to set fruits faster and enhance their size. But wait. Got a 6”+ sucker? Don’t let it go to waste. Prune it, stick it in water, change the water daily until it roots, and give the clone to your friend who gambled, planted early, and had their garden decimated by hail.
Sheet Mulch
PLANT YOUR FALL CROP Were you a total slacker and didn’t get to the garden stores before this year’s seedlings were wiped out in the mad rush following the realization that this would be our first season without the mothership supplier, Paulino’s Gardens (may she rest in peace)? Well, don’t stress. The average first frost day in Denver is the first week of October. Count back 60-80 days (July, we are looking at you) for a great time to start planting your cool season crops. Check out local Colorado company, Botanical Interests, for seeds (https:// www.botanicalinterests.com/category/Frost-Tolerant-Vegetable). Cool season crops to consider include: broccoli, kohlrabi, beets, carrots, radishes, parsnips, peas, carrots, greens including lettuce, endive, kale, and chard.
PHOTOS BY KATHERINE CORNWELL
Tomato Sucker
Katherine has lived in North Denver for 20 years and runs Sunnyside Urban Farm. She created Denver’s Sustainable Food Policy Council and her Lip Smackin’ Sour Cherry Jam won the Blue Ribbon at the first Denver County Fair.
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June 15-July 14, 2020 | Page 13
C OM M UN I T Y
Chief Pazen Says DPD Can, Will Do Better By David Sabados
“I
f you look at our use of force policy, and compare it to other places, it’s very progressive,” Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen said during a June 4 interview with The Denver North Star, the day of George Floyd’s memorial service. “Even with that, we need to seize this moment to do better. Don’t dig in and say everything is fine -- quite the opposite -ask how can we do better.” Denver Police have come under increased scrutiny for allegations of using unnecessary force being against protestors in downtown Denver following the death of George Floyd, who died after being pinned to the ground by police in Minnesota. Mayor Hancock elevated Pazen from Northwest Denver District 1 commander to police chief two years ago, describing his record with words such as “innovation” and “collaboration.” Elevated community tensions with police will likely test those words. Only the second Latino to serve as Denver's Police Chief, Pazen views himself as a community member first. He grew up in North Denver with a single mother, attended DPS, graduated North High School, and, aside from a few years in the Marine Corps, has lived in the city his entire life. He points to the community’s involvement in creating the current use of force policy as evidence of collaboration and how he wants to move forward. That committee had
representation from a number of community groups including the ACLU and The Ministerial Alliance. One of those committee members was Lisa Calderón, now Denver Councilwoman Candi CdeBaca’s chief of staff. Calderón taught criminal justice at Regis University and served as Co-chair of the Colorado Latino Forum at the time. “The problem isn't the policy,” said Calderón. “The problem is the implementation of that policy,” commenting on allegations that Denver police have fired “less lethal” munitions such as tear gas at protestors without provocation. Calderón also took issue with the idea that the process was inclusive, saying community activists had to fight with the police union and former police chief White to get any concessions on the part of Denver Police. During his interview with The Denver North Star, Pazen spoke in specifics about past actions but took a more aspirational tone about the future, much as he did in an online town hall the night before. “We required 8 hours of training for every member of the department, including myself,” Pazen said about use of force training, noting there was another 20 hours dedicated specifically to de-escalation techniques. Another important past change for Pazen includes differences in procedure for Denver and Minneapolis, where Floyd was killed. “We prohibit what we saw in Minnesota,” referring to pinning a per-
son to the ground by the neck. Denver police policy prohibits such pinning, but rather says individuals should be placed on their sides and then sat up. Denver officers are also required "to intervene” if they observe another officer acting inappropriately. Pazen also highlighted the department’s recent and speed-record-breaking firing of the Denver police officer who posted “let’s start a riot” on his Instagram page while in police riot gear as a sign of progress, as well as a rare lack of opposition from the police union for the firing. Asked about more specific changes he wants to see in the future, he talked about ideals of community involvement and the importance of systemic change in Denver and PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DENVER across the country but provided POLICE DEPARTMENT few concrete details. “We are ready, Denver Police Chief Paul Pazen willing, and able to listen and do the hard work,” he said. Denver City confirmed nor denied if they have Council members are expected to identified the driver despite videos consider several reform proposals in and photographs that have circulated widely. Calling it an “open the near future. Regarding national issues, “No,” and ongoing investigation,” Pazen Pazen responded simply, when declined to comment on the matasked if he supports President ter “for the integrity of the case,” Trump's proposal to use the Insur- saying sometimes arrests happen rection Act to mobilize military quickly and sometimes it takes longer. He did ask, however, to be forces in U.S. cities. Denver police have been criticized clear that the police did not release recently for not arresting a woman any details and the possible ID was alleged to have intentionally struck the work of individuals outside the a protestor with her car in late May. police department. The Denver Online activists released person- North Star will be following that al information about who they be- case and others related to the prolieve she is. Authorities have not tests in future issues.
A Message From Our Distributor
By Barbara Baetke
A
s an employee of Yankee Peddler Postal, I would like to thank the communities of North Denver for their generosity and kindness. I deliver multiple newspapers throughout the Denver area. When delivering The Denver North Star door to door, I have experienced an exceptional display of kindness and generosity in your neighborhoods. I appreciate homeowners who are making free masks, providing bottled water, and snacks for those in need, many friendly residents that have truly touched my heart. Your example of community caring makes it a pleasure to service your neighborhood with the monthly distribution of the The Denver North Star newspaper. Page 14 | June 15-July 14, 2020
Dempsey and the healthcare workers in his neighborhood
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FRANDINA FAMILY
4th Grader Raises Money for Healthcare Workers
Denver North Star Staff
D
empsey Frandina is finishing up 4th grade at Downtown Denver Expeditionary where he said he loves his math classes. This summer he’s also bringing smiles to health care workers. Dempsey, who lives in the
Sloan’s Lake neighborhood, started a GoFundMe (with a little help from his mom) to raise money to buy healthcare workers lunch. They raised $400, and Santiago’s Burritos kicked in another $200. “I think it was around 140 burritos,” Dempsey said.
Dempsey explained his school participates in “Better World Day,” and with DPS students at home, many chose individual projects. For Dempsey, that was making a difference to 140 healthcare workers in his neighborhood. The Denver North Star
CO MMU NI TY
KI DS & E DU CATI ON
LETTERS FROM MISS JILL
Different Can be Good T
he end of this school year brought many struggles and disappointments to parents and JILL CARSTENS students. Online teaching suddenly became a norm, but one that had not been practiced much. There were some innovators that charted new courses with this mode of education and I know one of them. My friend Susan has been holding court with her K-2 students online from 9 to 3pm. When I spoke to her during a brief pause the other day, she commented, “It’s not that much different than when we met in the classroom.” I was amazed by this statement and the fact that she could sustain 6 hours online with the kids! This was a credit to the work Susan had put in with her students all year. They are coached to embrace a productive self-direction, work with others hey have and communicate effectively. Susan e videos does not only direct her students, e circu- they have conversations. This pracn “open tice has made a transition to the ” Pazen screen-classroom almost effortless. he mat- The biggest shift the class had to he case,” make was refining their verbal skills. happen “In the classroom I could be more it takes aware of children’s feelings by their er, to be body language. You can’t see everyt release thing from the screen, so the kids e ID was have had to learn how to express side the their feelings entirely verbally and I Denver believe this has been a wonderfully ing that positive result.” the pro- My concern has been for the youngest of students whose attention spans would surely waver with the online-only environment. Susan offered that the students are accustomed to working in groups and the older children help guide the younger students. While students work in groups, Susan is able to go around and conference individually with children. Many parents are expressing anxiety about the fall 2020 school year and how we will cope in general. I believe Susan’s model is a great one. I still wonder about those youngest of students who were to begin kindergarten in the fall. If your child has a late birthday close to the cut-off date and is still young developmentally, delaying a year could be an option. Brad Laurvick, our North Denver school board representative, took
time to chat with me. DPS has been working with many entities including the Colorado Department of Health and Environment and has recently come up with some options for this fall, with health and safety being the number one priority. Parents will be surveyed about these choices (you may have been contacted by the time this goes to press) and DPS hopes to have decisions made by the end of June in order to prepare students and teachers. Since online learning will still be a factor indefinitely, I asked Mr. Laurvick if teachers would be provided training for effective teaching over the Internet. He conveyed that there were ongoing opportunities for teachers to get support with this. Regardless of how DPS will proceed this fall, keeping all DPS students current with standards is the goal and that time and effort for children with special needs will be provided. He added that Facilities Management is a huge player in how a day at school might play out, factoring in the ability to sanitize in a way that is necessary during this pandemic. It is time to think out of the box for education. I know lots of you are worrying about what will happen because of this change. As I often do, I will advise you to take a breath. It will hopefully be just one year, which in the scheme of things is not huge. We need to surrender to the fact that it will be a different year and there can always be positives that evolve out of different. But most likely, you will need to participate actively in this process. I encourage everyone to connect with your neighbors and the parents of your child’s schoolmates to share resources, find ways to be social in safe ways and maybe share the expense of a tutor or supplemental art class. I will be listening for the outcome of the DPS survey and continue to offer suggestions for you all as we learn to cope with the pandemic. Jill Carstens is a proud Denver native, a passionate mom and a teacher. She picked North Denver as her home base in 1997, and has run Milestones Preschool since 2011. If you have ideas for an article or further questions for Miss Jill, you can email her at jillatreadytolearn@gmail.com.
school ld Day,” t home, ects. For a differrkers in PHOTO FROM FREEPIK.COM
The Denver North Star
PHOTO COURTESY OF ZEKE FERGUSON
North Denver Boxing Prospect Has Dreams of Olympic Gold Z
eke Ferguson wants to bring an Olympic gold medal in boxing home to North VICKY COLLINS Denver. The 19-year old Berkeley native and North High alum might just have the punching pedigree to do it. “I feel like boxing is a good opportunity to put your all into it and work your butt off,” said Zeke. “You can get hurt and it shows when someone is not working hard.” Zeke started boxing in eighth grade. His interest in the sport came as a bit of a surprise to his family, who has a history of basketball players. His father, Chris Ferguson, is the head hoops coach at Denver North High School, and his brothers were standouts on the court. Zeke played basketball and baseball his freshman year but decided to switch to boxing. “Boxing pushed me into my own lane to be able to do my own thing.” Zeke’s decision to fight was hard on his mom. “I don’t think any mom wants to see her kid getting punched,” says his father. But mom is now at every fight, and dad, who was a flyweight in the day, taught Zeke the fundamentals in the family basement. “He knows how to keep me disciplined,” “says Zeke. I work out every day, Monday through Friday, and on the weekends I go run in the mountains. He taught me how to position my hands, feet and knees and how to use your jab. The jab is the most fundamental thing in boxing.” All that training has paid off. Zeke graduated from his home basement to Hit Squad Boxing gym in Westminster. At 5’5” and 108 pounds he is a light flyweight but plans to move up to the 114- pound flyweight class. He spars with those in higher weight classes and has a mean left hook to the liver. His skills caught the attention of the Olympic Training Center which invited him there in just his fourth year as a fighter. “I remember being very nervous in my first fights. I couldn’t even talk. Now I’m comfortable and I’m dancing before my fights.”
Zeke wants to push his opponents to their limits. “My strengths for my weight class are my body shots,” says Zeke. “I feel like I’m strong for my weight class and I’ve done a lot of damage in my fights. I feel like my limits are a lot higher and my work ethic as well.” Dad says he’s a natural. “In a short period of time it’s amazing how good he is and the potential he has.” Zeke already has a string of accomplishments including four national titles and a #3 ranking in his weight group from USA Boxing. He made it to the national Golden Gloves final and the 2019 Youth Olympic Boxing team. His overall goal is to go to the 2024 Olympic games in Los Angeles and then turn pro. “I feel like every great fighter who has left a mark has started at the Olympics from Muhammad Ali to Floyd Merriweather.” Zeke aspires to work his boxing around a career in firefighting. He comes from a family of Denver firefighters. His grandpa, Richard Montoya, died in the line of duty in 2006. His father, brothers and uncle are all firefighters. First, Zeke needs to finish his degree at Metropolitan State University where he is an entrepreneurship major and Denver Public Safety Cadet. Zeke is determined to not only be a championship fighter but a neighborhood influencer. “I want to uplift the community in North Denver and bring an Olympic Gold back to the neighborhood. It’s never been done before and that’s my goal. I’m proud of where I’m from and I want to bring that level of success back to my neighborhood.” Vicky Collins is a freelance television producer and journalist with a diverse portfolio that includes network news, cable programming, Olympic sports, corporate and non-profit videos. Vicky has created a Facebook Community called Bucket List Community Cafe which is a digital news site for Denver's Northside. June 15-July 14, 2020 | Page 15
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Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.
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The Denver North Star