Greater Park Hill News June 2024

A Real Cast Of Characters

Get ready for the sometimes unexpected, always patriotic Park Hill Parade. The biggest July 4 parade in Denver takes place on Thursday, July 4 starting at 1:30 p.m. It runs along 23rd Avenue from Dexter to Krameria streets. Be prepared for dozens of floats, costumed characters, classic cars, politicos, princesses, martial arts experts, dancers, Royal Rangers, Westernaires and more. This year the 101st Army Band will lead the party for the first time. Parade watchers can line up anywhere along 23rd Avenue with blankets or chairs. More information, including registration and sponsorships, is at ParkHillParade.com. File photo by Cara DeGette

T I on 2024

Primary Straight Ahead

Joseph Versus Walsh For DA

On June 25, Democratic voters will decide their choice for Denver District Attorney. Leora Joseph and John Walsh are running for the top prosecutor spot in a heavily Democratic city. No Republican is in the running to succeed Beth McCann, who is retiring after serving two four-year terms as DA. So whoever wins the June primary will likely be the winner in the November General Election. The new DA will enter office amid increasing calls for progressive reforms like equitable prosecution, reducing mass incarceration, expanded restorative justice and a renewed focus on police accountability. To learn more about where Walsh and Joseph stand on critical issues,

check out last month’s candidates’ Q&A at greaterparkhill.org/laworder/.

Gilchrist Walks To Win HD8

Candidate Lindsay Gilchrist has shut out three other Democratic candidates running to replace termlimited Rep. Leslie Herod in the Colorado Legislature.

There is no Republican running in the heavily-Democratic district, and Gilchrist will likely be the new House District 8 representative. HD8 includes Park Hill, as well as parts of Central Park, Whittier, Clayton, Cole, Skyland and Five Points neighborhoods. Three other Democrats running for HD8— Kwon Atlas, Victor Bencomo and Sharron Pettiford — failed during the March Democratic Assembly to meet the required threshold to make the ballot. Atlas subsequently attempted to petition onto the ballot by collecting 1,141 signatures

All That Jazz

Art, Music, Beauty. Something For Everyone In June

Compiled by Cara DeGette GPHC Editor

Summer Jazz In City Park

Hot blues and big bands, cool jazz and Latin sounds. This summer’s free Sunday evening City Park Jazz (cityparkjazz.org) concerts in the park kicks off June 2, and runs through Aug. 4. All concerts run from 6 to 8 p.m. at the City Park Pavilion. Here is the schedule:

June 2: Roka Hue

June 9: Stafford Hunter & Jazz Explorations

June 16: Mistura Fina

June 23: ZiMBiRA

June 30: Hazel Miller and the Collective

July 7: JoFoKe & Same Cloth

July 14: Delta Sonics Blues Revue

July 21: Denver Jazz Orchestra

July 28: Nelson Ranges

Aug. 4: Jakarta

Park Hill Art Festival June 1-2

This year’s Art Festival features the work of more than 100 profes-

from voters living in the district in 48 hours. The Secretary of State determined fewer than half of those — 523 — were actually valid. (Read the news story about the primary race from the April issue at greaterparkhill.org/slam-dunk-for-gilchrist/.)

Handy Resources For Voters

The following are a few resources about how to vote in the June 25 Primary Election:

■ Ballots will be mailed on June 3.

■ June 3 is also the last day for voters who are affiliated with a political party to change or withdraw their affiliation if they wish to vote in a different party’s primary election on June 25.

■ Election Day is Tuesday, June 25. Voter service and polling centers are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. All ballots must be returned (not mailed) by 7 p.m. on Election Day.

■ Voters can update and verify addresses and party registration at GoVoteColorado.com. While you are there, sign up for Ballot Trace to track your ballot like a package, from printing to acceptance for counting.

There are several sites in and around the neighborhood to drop off your completed and signed ballot: Hiawatha Davis Recreation Center at 33rd and Holly Street, the Museum of Nature and Science in City Park, at the Montclair Recreation Center in the Lowry neighborhood, and at East High School.

sional artists. It runs Saturday and Sunday June 1 and 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. The festival is on the grounds of the Masonic Temple, at Montview Boulevard and Dahlia Street. There is no charge for entry. Work represents the full range of mediums — from oil, watercolor and mixed media paintings, to sculptures and ceramics, jewelry, textiles and photography.

Five Points Jazz Is June 8

The Five Points Jazz festival is a free, all-day event held in Denver’s historic Five Points neighborhood. The daylong festival has grown over the past 20 years and now draws tens of thousands of people coming to hear a variety of great jazz bands on multiple stages.

Five Points Jazz kicks off at noon with a parade along Welton Street from 29th to 25th avenues. The bands take the stages shortly after, playing well into the night. This year 22 bands will perform, including the continued on page 5

Leora Joseph John Walsh

Lindsay Gilchrist

GPhN wins 9 Awards

Newspaper Honored For News, Features, Columns, Photos

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

We’re dancing around our desks over here at Greater Park Hill News World Headquarters. Last month our tiny-but-mighty newsroom brought home nine journalism awards — including five First Place wins — in the Top of the Rockies regional journalism contest.

Our staff and talented freelancers also won four Third Place awards. Top of the Rockies is sponsored by the Colorado Society of Professional Journalists and the competition includes daily, weekly and monthly newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. The awards were for work published in 2023.

First Place Winners

News Column Writing: A selection of Tracey MacDermott’s monthly Earth In Crisis column. MacDermott’s focus is on the environment and impacts of global warming. Noted the judges: “The columns are interesting reads . . . Clear, concise writing based on facts.”

Politics Feature Story: The Golden Road To City Hall by Cara DeGette. Last year Denver voters picked their first new mayor in 12 years. This news story traced the strong connections that past mayors have had to Park Hill for decades.

Sports News Story: Slam Dunk by Reid Neureiter. Story and photos about the East High boys basketball team’s state championship win. The judges noted: “There was a lot of heart and perspective in this story.”

Climate Photography: At Long Last: The Resplendent Quetzal. Park Hill Photographer Mark Silverstein has been searching for decades for the exotic Quetzal, the national symbol of Guatemala whose existence is threatened by the loss of its natural habitat. He finally found the bird.

Social Justice Photography: Keeping The Dream Alive by Cara DeGette. Photo spread from the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade.

whO we ARe

Editor: Cara DeGette

Manager: Brenda Morrison

Ad Sales: Melissa Davis and Denise Fisher

Art Director: Tommy Kubitsky

how To fIND US

Voicemail: 720-287-0442

Email: newspaper@greaterparkhill.org

Address: 2823 Fairfax St. Denver, 80207

Website: greaterparkhill.org

Facebook: facebook.com/greaterparkhillnews

Twitter: @parkhillnews

Story Tips and Letters to the Editor:

Cara DeGette: 720-979-4385, editor@greaterparkhill.org

Advertising information: Melissa Davis: ads@greaterparkhill.org

Denise Fisher: sales_denise@greaterparkhill.org

Deadline for submissions is the 15th of every month

Third Place Winners

Column Personal/Humor: Word From The Editor by Cara DeGette. For columns highlighting some of the absurdities of last year’s municipal election, and other insights.

Feature Photography: Every Space A Universe. Photographs from a feature story about the fantasmic East High prom by Reid Neureiter.

Obit Reporting: Remembering Ms. Amy by Cara DeGette. A news story about beloved longtime Park Hill Elementary kindergarten teacher Amy Maes.

Headline Writing: Lucas Clarke Has Just One Speed (and other headlines) by Cara DeGette.

Check out all of our award-winning stories, columns and photographs at this link: greaterparkhill. org/newspaper-awards-2023

The Greater Park Hill News has been publishing since 1960. It’s no secret that many newspapers have had a rough go of it in recent years. Still, over the past few years we’ve been thrilled to see readers — and advertisers — enthusiastically reembrace community journalism, realizing its critically important role in a thriving democracy. That, for us, is the most important prize. And now an important word about those advertisers. Simply, they are awesome, they are loyal, and we would not exist without them. (Check them out in these pages; a complete list of advertisers from last year is also on our website at greaterparkhill.org/newspaper.) The next time you patronize one of these businesses, please let them know you appreciate their choice — and their support for local journalism. If you are interested in advertising, contact newspaper@greaterparkhill.org.

Being recognized for excellence underscores our commitment to providing readers with compelling, relevant, and interesting journalism. With that in mind, we extend our congratulations to all the winners in this year’s Top of the Rockies.

The Greater Park Hill News is published by Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. (GPHC) on the 1st of each month. Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. makes no warranties and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. The opinions expressed in articles are not necessarily the opinions of GPHC. GPHC does not necessarily endorse the companies, products or services advertised in The Greater Park Hill News unless specifically stated. GPHC reserves the right to run any advertisement.

Circulation is 13,000 and is distributed in the Park Hill Area by neighborhood volunteers.

The Greater Park Hill Community, Inc., is a volunteerbased registered neighborhood organization that: promotes the character and vibrancy of Park Hill; provides resources, information and advocacy; and preserves quality of life and the history of the neighborhood through community participation.

This newspaper is made possible through the support of our

Grace And Speed

MARCY EASTMAN

Congrats to my son, Connor, for graduating from University of Wisconsin-Madison with dual degrees in Computer Science and Data Science!

CONGRATS TO ALL 2024 GRADUATES

Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off. May your future be filled with exciting adventures and continued success in all your endeavors.

MARCY EASTMAN

Realtor® | 720.436.5494 | marcy.eastman@compass.com Follow me on Instagram! marcy_eastman_denver

5/22/24, 2:44 PM AW_AD - Park Hill Album (Park Hill Stats) latest.png

Belted Kingfishers are most effective fishers, hence their name. They are highly territorial, and spend much of their time perched alone in trees along the edges of streams and lakes looking for small fish. When they spot one they either dive-bomb directly from their perch to capture it, or they hover over the water, with their bill downward, before diving in. Various studies have shown they have an impressive 50 percent success rate capturing their prey when diving off a branch. This male Belted Kingfisher was photographed at Prospect Park in Wheatridge by Mark Silverstein.

Dear Campus Mosaic

A Letter of Gratitude From A Longtime Fan (And Dog Lover)

By Gary Martyn For the GPHN

You were not around when I first met your lovely campus. Back then it was the Colorado Women’s College. I was just a little boy, and my mom took me to Mason Hall for swimming lessons in the indoor pool. I had no idea at the time how much your campus would eventually mean to me.

A few years later, I was visiting you again, this time riding my bike to meet friends and play football on your enormous lawn.

Time flew by as I graduated from college, started working in Denver and lived in Mayfair. I met a lovely lady who lived just two blocks away from you. We would walk our three dogs around your campus as we were getting to know each other. My lady friend had graduated from your college and bought a house near you because she liked the neighborhood.

to your grounds, bringing once again the energy of young people on campus.

Succession of fine caretakers

D.U. was a fine caretaker. They brought the grounds back to life, planted lots of flowers, and even put a pub in Mason Hall. Fun to see the law students having FACs. An added bonus was seeing my nephew graduate from law school in a ceremony on the great lawn.

Law school didn’t last, as D.U. consolidated their campus. But you weren’t empty for long.

Johnson and Wales University opened on your campus in the fall of 2000, filled with mostly enthusiastic young folks. Added bonus was a culinary school.

I had no idea at the time how much you would eventually mean to me.

Lady friend became wife, love of my life, and I moved in with her. You were the destination for daily walks. One by one, we lost the three dogs and started again with a puppy. You were suffering losses as well, finally closing and merging with the University of Denver. D.U. added a new building and moved their law school

Johnson and Wales took on a massive project of rejuvenating the old buildings. Dorms were redone, a new culinary building constructed, and the final gem was, with the help of History Colorado, Historic Denver, and others, the complete renovation of Treat (now Centennial) Hall. Treat is one of my favorite buildings in Denver and it was so gratifying to see it brought back to life — including reusing materials in the building. Old doors were refinished and used as wainscoting.

Treat is on the National Register of Historic Places. The J&W years were

some of your best. Your campus is the closest thing to a park in this part of South Park Hill. The community utilizes your grounds for walking, lots of lawn for kids to play on, a little place to sled.

I was still walking our dog on your campus every day. By this time, the pup that started with the D.U. years was toward the end of her life, so our walks were a little subdued but even a slower pace brought opportunity to look closer at the fine buildings in our midst.

What stands out is the amazing masonry work. This is craftmanship rarely seen today. Everywhere you look there are little hidden gems. The little stone birds on the porch of Pulliam. The fierce face on Foote. Celtic designs on Mason. Fancy brickwork on Curtis and Porter. And the incredible entryway of Treat. Always something to see.

Vassar of the West

Soon, we were walking a new dog. One fun thing about walking a friendly pup on campus is the reaction by kids, homesick for their own pets. Impossible to count the number of times a student would stop us and ask to pet or hug our dog.

One memorable morning, we walked by the girls’ soccer team while they were warming up. It seemed half the team stopped to give our pup pats or grab a hug, completely disrupting the routine.

On the west side of your campus, we have attended more than one wedding at the beautiful Whatley Chapel. The stained glass is absolutely stunning inside. By the chapel

entrance is the Hill Carillon, which tolls on the hour. Next to the chapel is an outdoor amphitheater, where I saw an impromptu concert by Sugarloaf, a Denver band just starting out, in the late 60’s.

A few other quick facts you might not know about what is now your campus:

• Whatley Chapel was designed by one of the architects of Red Rocks Park.

• When Treat Hall was completed in 1909, it was described as being several miles east of Denver.

• The Carillon by the chapel is the oldest authentic carillon in Colorado.

• The stained glass in Whatley Chapel is by French artist Gabriel Loire.

• Colorado Women’s College was referred to as the Vassar of the West.

• There was a boardwalk from the streetcar station at Poplar and Colfax that ran down Poplar Street to the campus. The boardwalk was so the young ladies could walk to the campus without getting dirty from the unpaved street.

• On the south side of 17th, in t he middle of the block between Quebec and Poplar, there is a large, long stone by the curb. This was a mounting stone, to help the young ladies step into a carriage.

A wish for eternity

The COVID-19 pandemic was the final blow to Johnson and Wales, already suffering a declining enrollment. The university made the decision to close the school in 2021. This was a shock to the community, causing genuine unease over the fate of the campus. The Urban Land Conservancy came to the rescue, Mosaic was born, and the journey continues.

For me, I continue walking the dog around and through the campus. I never tire of the beauty of the place; the early morning light on the buildings can be magnificent.

If I were granted a wish for something, it would be making the campus a historic district and preserving it for generations of people — and dogs — to come. Thank you, Mosaic.

Gary Martyn is a Park Hill native. Past Greater Park Hill News coverage about Mosaic Community Campus can be read at greaterparkhill.org/ life-in-the-mosaic/.

Gary Martyn, with Liam, at Mosaic Community Campus.

Photo by Cara DeGette

Otone Brass Band, Colorado Repertory Jazz Orchestra, Purnell Steen and the Five Points Ambassadors, The Renwick Brothers, Clare Church Quartet, Beasts Of No Nation and Jakarta. Check out the full schedule and line-up at artsandvenuesdenver. com/programs/five-points-jazzfestival.

Park Hill Garden Walk Is June 9

This year’s Park Hill Garden Walk will feature seven gorgeous neighborhood gardens. Come and enjoy their beauty, and be inspired by the creations your neighbors have made. Some gardens include water-saving grasses, low-water plants, and flowers and foliage designed to attract birds and bees and other pollinators. Many incorporate a variety of garden features — from fountains to firepits, birdhouses to pergolas, sculptures and murals that provide interest, texture and depth. Artists are at each garden, many of them working en plein air. (See story on page 10 for more about this year’s artists, as well as ticket and other information.)

Call For Open Studio Tour Artists

Join neighborhood artists throughout Park Hill for the 2024 Open Studio Tour. This year’s tour will be Saturday and Sunday, Oct.

19 and 20. The event is designed to showcase neighborhood artists and their work, and support them as they sell their creations. Participants include painters, sculptors, potters, glass artists, fiber artists and jewelry makers. Artists can choose to exhibit in their own neighborhood studios, or be a guest artist in another artist’s studio. A fee of $100 covers the cost of flyers, signs and other advertising. Deadline to apply is July 1. Contact Erika Paterson at shaxper22@yahoo. com.

Home Tour & Street Fair Is Sept. 29

Vendor registrations are open for the 46th annual Park Hill Home Tour and Street Fair, which is huge fun and also the biggest fundraiser of the year for Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. This year’s Home Tour and Street Fair is Sunday, Sept. 29 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature multiple homes that will be open for tours, as well as a daylong Street Fair on Forest Parkway at Montview Boulevard. Vendor alert! Applications are being accepted for food trucks, crafters, artisans, nonprofits, local small businesses and retailers. Sign up at parkhillhometour. org. Also check out the website if you are interested in featuring your home or volunteering.

Le T T e R s T o The e d I T o R

Is The City Stalling?

Thank you for last month’s news story and update on the current status of the Park Hill Golf Course property. (“At A Standstill,” online at greaterparkhill.org/at-a-standstill/)

I’ve been watching with growing sadness and concern the degradation of the land and trees at the former golf course. In my opinion, the owner is not acting in good faith, and the city is not honoring the wishes of its citizens. I have lost trust in our city’s leaders.

Cynically, in the face of inaction, I fear the city is intentionally stalling. As the property falls further into degradation and blight, I envision the city eventually presenting a “solution” in which Westside, or some other greedy developer, offers to renew and develop the property. A tragic outcome. I implore the Mayor and city council to honor the voice of their constituents and the spirit of the perpetual conservation easement by preserving the green space that was once the Park Hill Golf Course.

Merry Davis, Park Hill

The Work Is Not Over

I’ve been thinking about the empty and abandoned Park Hill Golf Course, where a park should be. I do hope that Mayor Mike Johnston’s team is paying attention.

Thank you for reminding us all that the work didn’t end with the election. I’ll send a note to Denver Councilwoman Shontel Lewis’s office. Her team has been responsive

when our district raises concerns.

This regional park should be much further in the process. Hopefully more Park Hill residents feel the same.

Veronica M. D’Annibale, Park Hill

Editor’s note: Mayor Mike Johnston can be reached at 720-865-9000

The mayor can also be contacted via email at tinyurl.com/DenverContact.

City Council Districts 8 and 9 currently include portions of Greater Park Hill. Two at-large council members also represent the entire city. The following are phone numbers and emails to reach those representatives:

District 8 Councilwoman Shontel Lewis: 720-337-8888

District8@denvergov.org

District 9 Councilman Darrell Watson: 720-337-7709

District9@denvergov.org

At-Large Councilwoman Sarah Parady: 720-337-7713

ParadyAtLarge@denvergov.org

At-Large Councilwoman Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez: 720-337-7712

G-Gutierrez.atlarge@denvergov.org

There Will Be Flowers

City Park Adopt-a-Flowerbed is working hard to make sure City Park blooms this summer. There is more reason than ever to volunteer for the program, now in its fourth year of operation.

The city initially announced that flower beds in city parks would not be planted due to budget cuts ad-

As the founder of Keating Woodworks, Geoffrey Keating designs and builds fine kitchens and furniture. He crafts by hand along

dressing the influx of migrants. On April 3, Adopt-a-Flowerbed volunteers gathered at the City Park Pavilion to ask Denver Parks and Recreation’s (DPR) Superintendent of the East District, Adam Smith how they can help in this crisis.

After discussions that were driven by the outreach efforts of Frank Rowe, executive director of the Denver Park Trust, and Darrell Watson, councilperson for District 9, Parks Deputy Manager Scott Gilmore has announced the creation of a City Park Flowerbed donor account. The account will support the gardens and planting areas throughout City Park, including any perennial gardens, Lilac Lane, Cordova Rock Garden, Ida’s City Park Rock Garden, the Benedict and Sopris Rose Gardens, Thatcher Fountain, Burns and Sopris Gardens, and the Esplanade flowerbeds. City Park Alliance has made a generous donation of $5,000 to kick off the account.

DPR Executive Director Jolon Clark and DPR Partnership Manager Dan Williams played crucial roles in creating this new donor account. Reach out to Mr. Williams at dan. williams@denvergov.org for information on how to donate.

According to Denver Parks and Recreation, the City Park Adopta-Flowerbed program is now the model for volunteer programs throughout the city’s parks. Please join us as we maintain City Park’s flowerbeds, bask in nature and renew old friendships while making new ones. Weeding, pruning, fertilizing, are some of the gardening tasks volunteers perform. For more information or to sign up, contact Maria Flora at mjflora@msn.com. The program is sponsored by Greater Park Hill Community, Inc., City Park Friends and Neighbors, South City Park and City Park Alliance.

Georgia Garnsey, Park Hill

Golf Tourney is June 24

City Park Alliance is holding its 4th Annual Golf Tournament on June 24 at City Park Golf Course. The proceeds from the tournament will go to help plant some flowers in City Park, help to maintain those flower beds, and to accomplish the things that will keep City Park our “crown jewel.”

City Park Alliance was formed in 1999 to work with Denver’s Department of Parks and Recreation with a vision of restoring City Park as the gem it has been in the past and to help make the park a more beautiful and user-friendly place to visit. (To learn more, go to cityparkalliance. org)

The golf tournament is our main source of fundraising, and it is a delightful morning with lunch at the end. Proceeds from last year went to purchase two park benches for the new playground that replaced the Dustin Redd playground.  That playground is busy and seating was often scarce for parents and daycare providers who bring their kids to play.

Please join us for this fun tournament. Register at cityparkalliancegolf.com. Singles and Foursomes are welcome, sponsorships are available, and it promises to be a fun game of golf with a spectacular view.

Alice Kelly, City Park Alliance

We love your letters, and give preference to those that address an issue that has been covered in the newspaper, or a topic that is Park Hill or Denver-specific. Send letters to editor@greaterparkhill.org, and include your full name, and the neighborhood in which you live. Deadlines are the 15th of each month, for the following month’s issue.

904 * 9392 geoffrey@keatingwoodworks.com

Volunteers with the City Park Adopta-Flowerbed program, in Ida’s Rock Garden.

Photo courtesy of Georgia Garnsey

Red Dogs Of Spring

Bison calves, called “red dogs” for the color of their fur as newborns, are born at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge in late April through May. As of May 10 this year the count was 29 new bison, with more calves on the way. The Arsenal herd of more than 200 will usually produce between 40 to 50 newborns a year. “Like other hooved animals, bison calves are on their feet quickly — think a couple minutes,” says spokeswoman Sarah Metzer. “If healthy and fully developed, they are running around within a couple hours.” The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is just six miles

Cooling Down

Celebrating Milestones And Wins For The Climate

By Tracey MacDermott For the GPHN

At the end of April, devastating tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma. The drenching, heavy rain created severe flooding. Texas too was pummeled, unspared by horrific damage from Mother Nature. Hundreds were rescued after heavy rainfall.

It is recognized science that climate change is the cause of storms that are more severe; more deadly. The never-ending disasters can wear us all down. It is challenging to remain hopeful. However, we have many reasons to keep the faith. We must continue working to solve the climate crisis.

for rooftop solar with Solar Switch Denver. The program brings together homeowners to buy solar at a discounted price through group purchasing. Innovative programs such as this help make solar more affordable.

More people are becoming familiar with the term Climate Justice and Environmental Inequities. Understanding what this is, is a key component in addressing climate change. Denver residents can be proud that the city is developing programs that focus on equity and social justice.

The use of rooftop solar has grown by 51 percent nationally since 2022.

First, renewable energy is now cheaper than fossil fuels. It is expected that prices will continue to drop, driving more adoption. Our own city is leading with its Climate Protection Fund. Per its website, more than 1,900 households and small businesses have signed up

The use of rooftop solar has grown by 51 percent nationally since 2022. It is expected that renewable energy will overtake coal by 2025 as the world’s largest source for electricity.

On Earth Day this year, President Biden announced $7 billion in grants for residential solar that serves lowand middle-income communities. Providing funding will not only help drive costs down for these households, but address environmental

Bursting Bubbles

By Mark Kuhl

For the GPHN

Laundry strips hit the scene several years ago. One of the first on the market, True Earth, contains zero plastic packaging. These concentrated detergent strips

are dry and a years’ supply fits in a paper carton the size of a shoe box. In the past couple years, dozens more companies have launched their own, but not without scrutiny. A key ingredient used in laundry strips, PVA, is a fossil fuel-

injustice. It means solar will be affordable to more people — not just the wealthy.

The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere could peak by 2025. Even though 2023 set a record for atmospheric CO2, we might just be seeing the end of the rise and begin to bring concentrations down. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has projected that emissions could peak next year but certainly by 2030, based on current policy settings. It is critical that we bring down emissions sooner to prevent the worst effects of climate change. This includes slowing global warming and ocean acidification. To be successful we will need to strengthen current laws, develop new technologies and simply stop using fossil fuels.

While it is exciting to know that we may be turning a corner, we still have a ways to go to bring Earth into balance. Discussions about the climate emergency have evolved to figuring out what we must do to halt and even reverse harm.

Not that long ago electric heat pumps and electric cars were not part of mainstream conversations. Yet last year the sales of electric vehicles (EV) hit $1.2 million. Bloomberg reported that fast-charging infrastructure for EV’s increased

derived plastic deemed safe by the FDA. It is used in many products, including pill capsules and protein powders. PVA, unlike most plastics, can be broken down by microbes, leaving mostly water and carbon dioxide. However, there is evidence it doesn’t all degrade. Many feel biodegradable plastic in laundry strips is a better environmental alternative to large bottles of liquid detergent, but those concerned about PVA may choose old-fashioned dry laundry detergent powder

16 percent in the second half of last year — even before federal dollars kicked in. Also last year, electric heat pumps outsold gas furnaces. The IEA has determined that we have the technology now to cut emissions in half by 2030.

There are many wins for the climate. Yet we need to continue to work within our communities. We need to continue engaging in productive conversations with those who still don’t fully comprehend or trust the realities of proven science. We need to keep the pressure on our legislators for legislation and critical public policy.

We need to build from the great things happening. Together, we can solve this. It will take all of us doing our part. The Park Hill community has consistently stepped up to lead when it comes to solving big issues. Our work continues.

Tracey MacDermott is an at-large member of the board of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. She was trained as a Climate Reality Leader in 2017, and is currently the Statewide Co-Chair of the Climate Reality Project for the 100% Committed Campaign. Email her at traceymacdermott@gmail.com.

packaged in a cardboard carton, or dry powder compressed into tablets for convenience.

Mark Kuhl is an environmental advocate who lives in Park Hill with his family. His handy tips and news about recycling household items appear every month in these pages. A directory of his past columns for recycling everything from paint to Styrofoam to shoes is at greaterparkhill.org/sustainability/recyclingdirectory/.

north of Park Hill.

Photo by Reid Neureiter

Laundry Strips Reduce Plastic - And Shipping Water

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Quality-rated early education programs and tuition support to every Denver family with a 4-year-old

Surrounded By Beauty

Artists In Residence Complement The Park Hill Garden Walk

By Micki Amick Park Hill Garden Walk Organizer

Artistic vision thrives with plants, and, as in years past, the June 9 Park Hill Garden Walk will feature the work of artists working in the gardens and displaying their work.

For many of these artists, what can be found in a garden is essential to their creations.

“My home studio overlooks my own garden, so I feel very comfortable making pottery en plein air, surrounded by herbs, flowers and garden creatures,” says potter Elaine Redfern, who is participating in the Garden Walk this year for the first time. “Honey bees are an important design element of my pottery. Bees make the world go around, as making functional pottery makes my world go around.“

Participating artists work in a variety of media. You may find Kate Maley, a fan of garden water features, painting one of her watercolors.

Sam Mata Ruiz will be finishing a mural in another garden.

Susan Crane will be demonstrating her fused-glass technique and “planting” her glass flowers in a garden.

Jenny Goring will return this year, with her brilliant flower-inspired scarves. Woodworker Chris Tittiger will bring his hand-crafted charcuterie boards, signs and art, as well as display his own garden handiwork.

Another gardener/artist, Jackie Berardini, will show her quilts, along with her garden.

And, in a first this year, floral soundscapes featuring flute and

synthesizers will performed by Luke Leavitt and Fragrant Blossom.

Several artists and gardeners are active in Denver’s printmaking community, including Jennifer Ghormley, Carlene Schumacher, Sarah Wallace Scott and Vanessa Martin.

Ghormley’s bright woodcut printed works feature Colorado mountains and nature. Schumacher works on paper, with shifting scenes and subtle colors. Scott’s garden features the plant choices she uses in papermaking, along with painter Nicole Fuentes’s nature-inspired works and Heather Doyle-Maier’s small-edition artist’s books.

“There’s no more perfect venue for me to be surrounded by gorgeous botanicals,” says Martin, a printmaker whose work features botanicals and natural papers. “Being around happy gardeners enjoying themselves . . . well it just doesn’t get any better than that.”

Pollinators and bug hotels

This year’s Garden Walk will also include master gardeners from Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) and Colorado Master Gardeners, who will share their expertise in growing healthy food and regenerating urban green spaces.

CSU Extension Master Gardeners will also be onhand to provide their expertise on growing food for local communities, and share their passion for pollinators. This is a bonus stop on the Walk, and includes designated wildlife habitat, a bug hotel, a sensory garden, a waterwise garden and an on-site composter.

Tickets for the Park Hill Garden Walk can be purchased at parkhillgardenwalk.org. Prices are $15 for adults; seniors (age 65+) are $12, and children under 12 are free. Tickets will be available the day of the event via Venmo for $20. Proceeds from the event benefit Greater Park Hill

Community, Inc.’s food, sustainability and other programs.

Tickets purchased online will be available for pick-up the day of the event at a booth at the corner of 19th  Avenue and Forest Parkway between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Simply drive up, show a Garden Walk volunteer your proof of purchase and they will give you your ticket(s) with a map of the featured gardens.

Tickets are also available now at these Park Hill establishments:

• City Floral: 1440 Kearney St.

• Cake Crumbs: 2216 Kearney St.

• Spinelli’s Market: 4621 E. 23rd Ave.

• Park Hill Library: 4705 Montview Blvd.

• Park Hill Art Festival on June 1 a nd 2: 4958 Montview Blvd.

2024 Garden walk Artists

Jackie Berardini: Textiles

Susan Crane: Fused glass art

Heather Doyle-Maier: Artist’s books

Nicole Fuentes: Acrylics

Jenny Goring: Mixed media, Scarves

Jennifer Ghormley: Woodblock prints

Kate Maley: Watercolors

Vanessa Martin: Botanic prints

Sam Mata Ruiz: acrylic and oil painting

Elaine Redfern: Functional pottery

Carlene Schumacher: Works on paper

Chris Tittiger: Hand-crafted wood

Luke Leavitt and Fragrant Blossom: Soundscapes

Artists and artwork from Garden Walks of years past. File photos by Cara DeGette

gAR d ens And Ve R s es

June Tips

To plant a garden is to dream of tomorrow. —Audrey Hepburn

• Begin watering deeply at least once a week, between 10 p.m. and 9 a.m.

• Deadhead roses and flowers to promote more flowering.

• Plant cucumber, tomatoes, peppers and eggplant

• Continue to plant basil seeds every three weeks during the summer for pesto, salads and sandwiches.

• Remove and compost diseasefree pea vines, lettuce, spinach and other cool-season crops.

• Seed the open area with more crops such as beans, basil or cover crops.

• Apply organic mulch to keep soil cool, retain moisture and keep weeds down.

• Construct a trellis for climbing vegetables.

• Late June: Harvest garlic and cure for about 4 weeks.

• Apply organic fertilizer.

• Harvest new potatoes.

• Continue to deadhead flowering a nnuals and perennials for continued bloom.

5/15/24, 4:46

• Pinch back chrysanthemums weekly until the Fourth of July to keep the plant from blooming too early.

• Thin tree fruits for larger and sweeter fruit and to reduce limb damage. Apples: thin to 6-8 inches between fruit; peaches, 6-10 inches; apricots and plums 2-4 inches.

• Check for pests and diseases and stop them before they get worse.

Thistle by Garden Walk Artist Vanessa Martin

Blast To The Past

Venturing Off The Beaten Path To Discover Marble And Crystal Story and photos by

Reid Neureiter

For the GPHN

Near the top of any list of iconic Colorado photographs is the famous Crystal Mill. This dilapidated 19th century wooden structure is perched precariously on a rock outcrop 20 feet above the Crystal River in the

central Rockies, a wooden shaft and ladders descending to the water below. Aspen trees surround. In Gunnison County, six miles from the quarry town of Marble, the Crystal Mill was part of the mining community of Crystal, now a mostly-deserted ghost town along the river. The wooden structure is not

actually a mill, but used to house a power plant for the Sheep Mountain mining tunnel.

According to a 1996 report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the building was constructed in 1893. It contained a horizontal wooden water wheel, turned by two one-inch water jets at the base of a shaft at river level which powered a large air compressor. Power was transmitted via a steel driveshaft up to the gear house, then to the compressor. Air was carried to a mine entrance via a three-inch iron pipe.

The compressed air both powered air drills and provided ventilation for the 1,500-foot-long mining tunnel. The mill operated until sometime in the 1920s.

The mill itself is on private land and not open to the public. Until last year, visitors could pay a small fee and walk down the river bank from the road to get better views (and photographs) of the historic building. But last July, access to the riverbank was blocked by the owner to prevent trespassing and vandalism. Nevertheless, the mill can still be viewed and photographed from the rocky and precarious 4x4 road that leads 4.5 miles and rises 850 vertical feet from just outside the town of Marble.

The road to the Crystal Mill can be hiked or driven with a high clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle. In addition, outfitters in Marble will rent rugged ATV’s or side-by-sides for a two-hour outing to the site. Guided

jeeps tours are also an option.

The small town of Marble itself is worth a visit. South of Glenwood Springs and west of Aspen, Marble is the home of a nearby stone quarry that is the source of the famous Yule Creek marble. The pristine white stone was used for the exterior of the Lincoln Memorial and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Washington, D.C.

Within the town proper is a historic mill site, where one can walk among the remnants of buildings that once housed machinery for cutting the marble stone. The road leading to the quarry goes over a culvert lined with enormous blocks of marble. A “community rock pile” just outside the quarry entrance has large shards of the stone free for the taking.

The town is home to a number of marble artisans selling everything from marble cutting boards to elaborate sculptures. Marble is also home to the renowned Slow Groovin barbeque restaurant, serving succulent pulled pork and beef brisket sandwiches.

Marble is 197 miles (and about 3.75 hours) from Denver, due south of Carbondale off of Colorado State Highway 133. More information about Jeep tours of Crystal Mill can be found at smithfamilycolorado. com/CRJT/. Utility vehicles can be rented for a self-guided tours from RPS Rentals in Marble, facebook. com/rpsutvs/.

Crystal Mill above the Crystal River, in the Central Rockies.

The historic mill site in the town of Marble has large marble remnants, bricks and sculptures on display.

East senior Kyrie Yavala dodges a Vista Viper defender in the state championship match on May 11.

Rough And Rugby

Story and photos by Reid Neureiter

For the GPHN

East/Regis Girls Win State Title

High school rugby at East High School saw success this year on both the girls and boys sides, with both teams playing for state championship titles at Glendale’s Infinity Park.

In the fall, when the season involves 7-aside rugby, there are enough girls from East to field a full team. But the spring season involves the 15-person version of the sport, so the East girls combined with Regis Jesuit to form an East/Regis combined squad that won the inaugural girls’ Spring Colorado State Championship title.

The East/Regis combined team defeated the Vista Vipers 31-7. East/ Regis jumped out to a quick 5-0 lead, and the Vipers kept the match

close for much of the first half. But eventually, East/Regis’ speed on the flanks and power through the middle of the field wore the Vista side down.

East sophomore flanker Kairine Brown has only been playing rugby for a year, but she has stepped into a leadership role and was excited to be part of the first girls state championship squad. “Winning was amazing, incredibly emotional, and nervewracking, especially in the first half,” Brown said. The whole team, she said, “felt the gravity of the game on the field,” as it was the first women’s 15’s high school state championship in Colorado.

Brown singled out two teammates as special contributors, East senior Kyrie Yavala, and East sophomore Lucy Walker. Brown explained that Yavala “had been playing rugby

her whole life” and was a “huge try scorer” getting five trys in the semifinal and another two in the final. Walker contributed with a try of her own, and some “amazing” kicking, scoring a number of penalty and try conversions using a deadly accurate drop-kick technique that regularly split the uprights from 30 yards or more.

More information about East/Regis girls rugby is at sites.google.com/ view/denvereastgirlsrugby/home.

East Boys Fall To Valor Christian

The East boys played in their fourth consecutive state championship match on the afternoon of May 11, but fell short at the final hurdle to Valor Christian by the score of 38-24. At halftime, with a 14-10 lead, the East boys looked to be on their way to winning their ninth state championship. But Valor started the second half strongly, quickly taking a lead they would not relinquish.

“Overall I think the East players showed a tremendous amount of

effort throughout the match, said East General Manager Steve Gore, who this year took over club leadership from the legendary Bill Baer. “The boys played their hearts out. In the first half we were able to leverage our intensity to win most of the little battles on the field and turned that into a 14-10 halftime score. But in the second half we were not able to keep up with Valor’s athleticism and that coupled with a few mistakes let the game get away from us.”

This year marked the club’s 36th season. Despite not regaining the state title the Angels held in 2021 and 2022, Gore said “year after year we consistently compete at the highest levels in Colorado. More importantly, we continue to challenge and have a positive impact on the fifty or so young men who play for us every year.”

Gore encourages young men interested in rugby to reach out via the East rugby website at eastrugby. com/.

Go wild for Front Range air quality.

East senior fullback Eli Zsemlye scores a try against Valor near the end of the May 11 state championship match.

Patty Paul, a board member of City Park Friends and Neighbors, with Denver’s City Park by Bette D. Peters. Originally published in 1986, it had been out pf print for many years. Paul recently decided to reprint the book, which Colorado Historian Tom Noel describes as “the single most important reference book for [City Park] enthusiasts who study and promote the history and heritage of the park.” The book is available at Park Hill Bookstore, at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science and can also be ordered via info@cpfan.org.

Courtesy of Patty Paul

All That Is Summer

Time To Bury your Nose In a Good Book — And Other Adventures

By Leslie Williams Pauline Robinson Branch Librarian

Summer is always an exciting time at the library. We host many programs at your neighborhood branches and throughout the city. The Pauline Robinson branch renovations continue this summer, but while we are closed we encourage you to visit the Park Hill and other branches, and take advantage of our services.

Here’s a peek of what we have to offer:

Summer of Adventure

Our annual summer reading program for youth begins June 3. Visit any of our branch locations to sign up and receive an adventure guide to inspire reading, making and exploring all summer. For the first time ever, youth who complete their reading will be invited to a party at the Denver Zoo. Visit summerofadventure.org for more information.

Celebrating Pride

DPL celebrates Pride all year long and hosts a wide variety of programs during Pride month in June. Visit denverlibrary.org/blog/books-equity-kids-older-adults-teen/asauceda/ celebrate-pride-year-round-denverpublic-library to learn more about how we create welcoming spaces and embrace LGBTQIA+ voices.

One standout program will be at the Sam Gray Branch, at 2961 Roslyn St in Central Park, on Saturday, June 15 from 3-4:30 p.m. Local author Lindsey King-Miller will be sharing her new book, The Z Word. Copies will be available for purchase. To learn more, visit denverlibrary.org/ event/lindsay-king-miller-the-zword.

Older Adult Services

Let’s Roll! DPL’s Bike Club for Adults 50+ is having the first of five monthly bike rides on Saturday, June 22 from 9-11 a.m.

The ride will begin at our Ross-

Broadway Branch, at 33 E Bayaud Ave. Participants will ride through Baker, Cheesman Park and Capitol Hill.

Registration is required. Visit denlib.org/lets-roll for more information and to register.

Have a great and safe summer!

June Library Programs

Pauline Robinson Branch

The Pauline Robinson Branch library is closed for renovations. While construction is underway, limited library services are being offered at Hiawatha Davis, Jr. Recreation Center at 3334 Holly St. Services are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Chromebooks are available for public use, as well as printing and copying.

• A cart of free fiction books for all ages and DVDs is available for browsing.

• Digital Navigator appointments a re available Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Bookmobile is on Wednesdays f rom 1 to 2:30 p.m.

• Community Resource Navigators a re available Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m. (720-335-28470

Park Hill Branch

Baby Storytimes | Thursdays, 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for babies ages 0-18 months and their parents or caregivers.

Toddler Storytimes | Fridays, 10:15-10:45 a.m.

Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their parents or caregivers.

TAB | Tuesdays, June 11 & 25, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Anyone 6th-12th grade is welcome to join and help with library programming and resources geared towards teens.

Writing Circle 2.0 | Thursdays, June 13 & 27, 1:30-3 p.m.

Join our supportive community of writers to hone your skills and feel inspired. On June 13, writers will workshop current projects amongst themselves. On June 27, teaching artist Andrea Asali will lead the group in a deep dive into personal essays. All levels and styles of writers are welcome.

Lost Creek String Band | Saturday, June 1, 3-4 p.m.

Lost Creek String Band is a captivating ensemble that weaves together the rich tones of guitar, violin, mandolin, and bass with mesmerizing vocals. Experience a symphony of strings, harmonies, and nostalgia with soulful renditions of beloved classics and modern hits.

Teen No Strings Attached Book Club | Tuesday, June 4, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Get in the mood for Spring Cleaning with archaeologist and author Chip Colwell who delves into humanity moving from gathering to gluttony through the ages and the consequences to today’s world.

Cancer Cafe | Monday, June 10, 2-3:30 p.m.

This peer group is for anyone postdiagnosis, whether in treatment or in remission. Family members and caregivers are welcome since uncertainty and anxiety around cancer affect everyone involved.

Arts and Crafts Shop | Tuesday, June 11, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

What can you create with $5? Each participant will be given a “wallet” containing $5 in play money. Participants browse our arts and crafts shop for supplies and make their purchases while letting their cre-

ativity guide them in making their unique project. Ideal for grades K-5, siblings welcome.

Magic Rob Magic Show | Wednesday, June 12, 3-3:45 p.m.

Full of amazing visual magic and audience participation this magic show is sure to be one of the unforgettable highlights of your summer.

Taste of Ceramics 50+ | Four Fridays, June 14, 21, 28 & July 5, 2-3:30 p.m.

In this four-week class, you will learn three basic clay techniques (slab, coil, pinch) in order to create two pieces: one functional work, one sculpture. Two different finishing processes will be used.

No experience necessary; all materials provided. Registration is required, and when registering you are committing to attending all four sessions.

Kids Book Celebration | Thursday, June 20, 4-5 p.m.

This month’s theme is Kindness. We will be making kindness rocks. Ideal for ages 5-12. Young children must be accompanied by an adult.

No Strings Attached Book Chat | Saturday, June 22, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Read whatever you want and attend whenever you can. Share a recent read, an old favorite, or anything in between.

Death Café | Monday, June 24, 2-3:30 p.m.

Death Café is an international movement that invites people to gather, normalize conversations around death, and make the most of LIFE. This is not a grief support group or counseling session. Respect for all views is a priority.

Qi Gong| Wednesday | June 26, 11 a.m.12:15 p.m.

Qi Gong is the cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine. Sometimes called “meditation in motion,” it includes slow, dance-like movements to improve breathing, reduce stress, and gently move the body. All levels and abilities are welcome at this memory-friendly event.

Kids Colorado-Ballet-Avengers Dance Battle Workshop | Wednesday, June 26, 3-3:30 p.m.

Explore the wide world of movement within the Marvel Comic Universe. Can you move as small as Ant Man and as big as the Hulk? Can you balance on the Infinity Stones? Can you move as smooth as Black Widow or as sharp as Iron Man? We will explore these movements and more as students try on the movements of their favorite superheroes.

Rainbow Family Party | Saturday, June 29, 2-3:30 p.m.

Join us for an LGBTQ+-affirming celebration for kids and families. In addition to a storytime presented by our special guest, Shirley Delta Blow, we’ll enjoy kid-friendly treats, crafts, and activities, and we will read some of our favorite LGBTQ+ kids’ books. All families with children are welcome.

Greater Park Hill has two public libraries: The Park Hill branch library is at 4705 Montview Blvd. For hours of operation and additional upcoming programs, visit denverlibrary. org/events/upcoming. The Pauline Robinson branch library is at 5575 E. 33rd Ave. It is currently closed for renovations. See listings above for current location and library services.

Snapshots In Time

GPHC Is As Strong As The Voices We Represent

By Lori Midson Executive Director, GPHC, Inc.

I’m a habitual reflector, the kind of person who frequently contemplates the past, the present and the future.

As we inch toward the halfway point of 2024 and steamroll toward our event season (Garden Walk, 4th of July Parade, Home Tour & Street Fair and Fall Fest), all of us at Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. (GPHC) are looking forward to the busy months ahead.

• 11 GPHC Community Food Programs & Events

• 15 Newspaper Journalism Awards

• 7 Years As a Certified Green Business

• 6 Years In The Sustainable Neighborhood Network

GPHC Membership

essential Food Pantry Needs

We accept food and toiletry donations between 8:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays and between 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. We also accept donations on Saturday by appointment. The GPHC office is 2823

We’re also reflecting on what we accomplished in 2023, as well as the issues we’re prioritizing as we forge ahead. To that end, we’re excited to share our 2023 Impact Report, which highlights the organization’s achievements, advocacy initiatives, board projects and goals. We encourage you to read through the report, available in its entirety at greaterparkhill.org/about-us/annualreports/.

The following are a few quick snapshots of our accomplishments from last year — many of which were fulfilled because of the support and generosity of all of you.

• 443 Member Households

• 6,326 Total Volunteer Hours

• 4,671 People Served Via The Food Pantry

• 48,000 Pounds Of Food Distributed Via The Food Pantry

• 887 Total In-Kind Donations

• 259 People Who Have Donated to GPHC Four Years In A Row

• 525 First-Time Donors

Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. is a membership-based registered neighborhood organization, and we truly are only as strong as the voices we represent. The more members we have, the bolder and more persuasive our collective voice becomes. To renew your GPHC membership — or to become a member — sign up at greaterparkhill.org/join-us/become-a-member/ or drop off a check (and say hello) at our office, at our office, 2823 Fairfax St. We look forward to serving you, listening to your ideas and input and working collaboratively on projects, programs and issues.

GPHC Community Meeting

Our next community meeting, which is open to the public, is Thursday, June 6, and we’d love to have you attend. Our meetings take place at 6:30 p.m. at 2823 Fairfax St. To learn more about presenting at a monthly community meeting, or to view the agenda, go to greaterparkhill.org/join-us/communitymeetings/.

Thank you, as always, to our current members, donors and volunteers for your kindness, in-kind and financial contributions, involvement and dedication to GPHC. You are so appreciated.

The following organizations and individuals donated to and volunteered with Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. last month:

Churches, Groups and Businesses

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church

Cure D’Ars

Catholic Church

Curtis Park Deli

Dahlia Campus Farms and Gardens

Denver Food Rescue

Denver Museum of Nature and Science Food Bank of the Rockies Mayfair Liquors

Messiah Community Church

Park Hill United Church of Christ Park Hill United Methodist Church

Weekly classes: yoga, meditation, dance. Donation-based, accessible.

Weekend space rental for workshops, pop-ups, gatherings, events.

St. Thomas Episcopal Church

Starbucks Sprouts Farmers Market

The Denver Beer Company

The Forte Group, Inc.

Individuals and Families

Karen Adkins and Brian Moore

Carol Ahnen

Sylvia Aldena

Janey and Harmon Alpert

Federico Alvarez

Margie Anderson

Laura Anthony

Selene Arca

Penny AshleyLawrence

Roslyn Barhaugh

Sari Berman

Fairfax St. Non-expired donations can also be dropped off in the bins inside Mayfair Liquors at 13th and Krameria, and the Park Hill Branch Library at Montview and Dexter. Our food pantry needs are updated weekly on our website: greaterparkhill.org/food- programs/emergency-food-pantry/. If you’re at the grocery store, please consider donating a few items from the list below:

• Cereal

• Bags of white rice

• Bags/boxes of mashed potatoes

• Canned refried, kidney, pinto, baked and white beans

Simon Blamires

Jasmine Brubaker

Bruce and Brenda Campbell

Buffy and Vernon Naake

Jennifer Calderone

Inga Calvin

Stephanie Ceccato and Michael Heringslack

Cindy and John Sawyer

Sebbie and Terry Coleman

Jenny & Doug Cox

Emma Cummings

David & Andy

Chen Gauthier

Abigail Dice

Casey Dinger

Anonymous Donors

Erin Donovan

Mandy Doria

Amelia Drumwright

Duane and Jean Gall

Judy Faught

Margie and Larry Feinberg

Erynn Fish

Denise Fisher

Anne & Joe Frank

Gary and Carolyn Martyn

David Gehlert and Heather Colliander

Lida Giachetti

Bobbi Gillis

Princess Gray

Tanya L. Greer

Gretchen Groth

Erica Gutierrez

Laraine Guyette

Lisa Haddox

Linda & Charles Hamlin

Eliza Harper

Amy Harris

Pam and Duke Hartman

Jake Higdon

Cynthia Hine

Ashley Hofwolt

Susan and Steve House

John Imbergamo

Jack and Pam Farrar

Bill Juraschek

Justin and Alison Bresler

Cynthia and Ed Kahn

Tim and Sally Kennedy

James Klett

Lana and James Cordes

Cle Lewis Liz and James Cameron

Lola and Arlen Hershberger

Mary Jo Lorenz

Lori Midson

Natalie and Patrick Love

Carol Maclennan

Marcia Lamb and Jackson Turnacliff

Margaret GourdBarrett and James Barrett

• Black-eyed peas

• Bags of dried beans

• Macaroni and cheese

• Dried pasta (all kinds)

• Tomato sauce and tomato paste

• Cornbread/muffin/biscuit mixes

• Canned ravioli and pasta

• Canned fruit

• Canned tuna and salmon

• Corned beef hash and Spam

• Hearty soups and stews

• Instant coffee packets

• Small can openers

• Hygiene products/toiletries

If you’d like to schedule a donation outside of our office hours, send an email to director@greaterparkhill.org or call 303-388-0918. While we’re always grateful for your donations, please be mindful of food expiration dates. We do not accept expired food items. And please do not leave donations outside our office door.

Mary Jo Stark and Edward Larock

Matthew and Elizabeth Spohn

Kerry McClauss

Tara McLain

Manthey

Babette and Randy McQueen

Laurel and Steve Mohr

Emily Morgan

Norman Mueller and Christy Murphy

Christina naff

Nancy Connick and Diane Jankowski

Chuck E Nelson

June Nery

Nora and Reid Neureiter

Chris and Erin Nielsen

Jack Nuanos

Linda Poletti and J. Madden

Barbara Redmond and Mark Kochever

Paul and Linda Redstone

Mary Salsich

Karin Schumacher

Heather Selph

Eloise Smith

Mary Jo Starmer

Ruth Steiner

Nancy Steinfurth

Stephen and Wendy Kaeuper

Christopher Stewart

Michele Swenson

Anne Tengler

Dan Thatcher

Catherine Thompson

Wendi Torres

Madeline J. White

Chris & Sherry

Williams

Dean and Marsha

Woodward

Dick and Lorie Young

Food Pantry

Volunteers

David Addor

Ursula Boldt

Bruce Campbell

Emily Clark

Linda Davis

Audrey Diamontopoulis

Larea Edwards

Carol Flank

Andy Hartman

Betsy Post

Mark Pressey

Carole Robertson

Deb Rosenbaum

Heather Selph

Piper Stevens

Newspaper

Bundlers

Hank Bootz

Martha Douglas

Denise Fisher

Maria Flora

Laurel Mohr

Mike Quigley

Mary Salsich

Shoshi Shaw

At The Watering Hole

Bet you’re wondering how ants drink water. The website Ask An Entomologist has more information about that than you ever imagined. The mouth part that ants use to drink is called the labium, and it’s basically the ant equivalent of the human tongue. Ants can drink either by licking the water (like a dog) or sucking in the water (like a human). And here’s something else: Ants don’t just drink enough water to quench their thirst. They also carry droplets back to the colony to store for future use. Photo by Mark Silverstein

pAR k hILL V e T

Staying Cool

Have Fun In The Summer Sun, But Watch Out For These Hazards

By Margot K. Vahrenwald, DVM, CVJ

For the GPHN

Summer is officially here and while we all want to have fun in the sun, the season also offers some potential pet health hazards.

Number one is preventing overheating. Always make sure your pet has plenty of fresh clean water and a shady place to cool off from the sun when outside.

Never leave anyone in a car – it is illegal in Colorado to leave a pet or child in a hot car. Because the inside temperature of a car rapidly increases and can lead to fatal heat stroke in a short time window for children or pets, please remember to leave pets at home and take the kiddos into the store with you on any day where the temperature is over 70 degrees.

And, owners of French Bulldogs, Pugs and other smoosh-faced breeds, remember their air-conditioning abilities from panting are much less than their full-nosed friends. That makes it easier for them to overheat on walks and during hot, hot days.

Sunscreens are needed protection for us humans, but their ingredients can pose a health threat to pets. Keep sunscreens out of reach if they contain any of the following:

• Salicylates: Not a concern in small a mounts but ingestion of large volumes can lead to respiratory issues.

• Zinc Oxide: Found in both sunscreens and diaper rash creams, zinc oxide can lead to vomiting and potential allergic reactions.

• Coconut and Coconut Oil: Small a mounts of coconut containing products will likely not be a problem. But in larger volumes it can be upsetting to the digestive tract,

who we Are, what we Do

The Board of Directors of GPHC, Inc.

Greater Park Hill Community, Inc., is a volunteer-based registered neighborhood organization that promotes the character and vibrancy of Park Hill, provides resources, information and advocacy, and preserves quality of life and the history of the neighborhood through community participation.

If you have an issue you’d like to discuss about the neighborhood, reach out to your board representative (listed at right). Unless indicated, representatives can be contacted via the main office, at 303-388-0918 or info@greaterparkhill.org.

GPHC world headquarters is 2823 Fairfax St.

If you are interested in volunteering or serving on a committee, contact current GPHC Board Chair Shane Sutherland at chair@greaterparkhill.org.

• Board Chair Shane Sutherland

• Secretary Bernadette Kelly

• Treasurer Heather Shockey

• District 1 Amy Harris

• District 2 Brenda Morrison

• District 3 Heather Shockey

• District 4 Currently vacant

• District 5 Sophie Milam

• District 6 Phebe Lassiter

• District 7 Jon Bowman

• District 8 Nam Henderson

• District 9 Doug Schuler

• District 10 Colette Carey

• At Large Maria Flora

• At Large Shanta Harrison

• At Large Tracey MacDermott

• At Large Laurel Mohr

• At Large Louis Plachowski: lplachowski@gmail.com

• At-Large Leslie Twarogowski

• Youth Chair Rick Medrick

• Blessed Sacrament James Groves

• Park Hill UMC Jacqui Shumway

leading to vomiting and diarrhea. Coconut water is high in potassium and should not be given to pets.

Rodenticides: There is NO safe rat or mouse bait that will not harm dogs and cats (or small children). The majority of rodenticides cause death by stopping the body’s ability to clot blood. This leads to the death of the mouse, other rodents or pets from internal bleeding. And these baits are flavored with sugar, so they attract dogs and puppies, though rarely cats.

Remember, grapes, raisins, onions, and chocolate can all cause significant problems and a potential trip to the vet emergency room.

The sweetener Xylitol, which can be found in gum, baked goods, candy and many more products, can lead to life-threatening insulin release that can be toxic to the liver and cause dangerously low blood sugar. Macadamia nuts can cause a marked toxicity in dogs, causing vomiting, tremors, depression, weakness and elevated body temperature.

Make sure that “special” food products containing marijuana are also out of pet reach. Finally, bones from barbequed meats should also not be given to pets. These bones are brittle and likely to splinter, causing potential choking or injury along the digestive tract. Have fun in the sun … after protecting your pets!

Dr. Margot Vahrenwald is the owner of Park Hill Veterinary Medical Center at 2255 Oneida St. For more info visit www.parkhill-vet.com.

The challenges facing today’s retirees are unique. Higher inflation, skyrocketing healthcare costs, longer life expectancies, and complex Social Security rules all make much of the conventional retirement wisdom of the past obsolete. In this new era, it’s crucial that you take a fresh look at the challenges ahead and create a comprehensive plan to address them.

For 30 years, we’ve been working with people like you to address the challenges of the transition from accumulating their nest egg to using it to support their retirement lifestyle. Get in touch today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Active Minds

The organization’s mission is to expand lives and minds by providing outstanding educational programs. Check out free lectures on topics ranging from music to history, current events to foreign affairs, including in and near Park Hill. A complete schedule of upcoming events is at activeminds.com

Art Garage

6100 E. 23rd Ave., artgaragedenver. com, 303-377-2353. The Art Garage is a nonprofit visual art community center whose mission is to offer artsbased programs that inspire, empower and promote creative self-expression by people of all ages, backgrounds, and ability levels. Check out ArtGarageDenver.com for details.

Blunders and Beers

Blunders and Beers is a Park Hill Chess Club that meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at Longtable Brewhouse, 2895 Fairfax St., beginning at 6 p.m. All skill levels are welcome. Bring a board if you have one.

Daughters of the American Revolution

Are you interested in genealogy? Your family history? American history? The Frances Wisebart Jacobs Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution meets regularly in the area. Contact Kathy Kelly at kkellyfwj76@gmail.com for details.

Denver Police District 2 3921 Holly St., 2.Dist@denvergov. org, non-emergency number is 720913-1000. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.

Denver Public Schools dpsk12.org

Check the website for resources and updates. Call the helpline at 720-4233054 for support in many languages.

Donations Resources

Greater Park Hill Community, Inc.

2823 Fairfax St., greaterparkhill.org, 303-388-0918

GPHC neighborhood association community meetings are conducted virtually and in person on the first Thursday of the month, except for December and July. The next meeting is Thursday, June 6 at 6:30 p.m. at 2823 Fairfax St. Check greaterparkhill.org/ join-us/community-meetings/ for information on how to participate. There is no meeting in July.

Libraries denverlibrary.org

See the “At the Library” feature on page 14 for updates and resources offered by the Park Hill and Pauline Robinson branch libraries.

Northeast Park Hill Coalition

The Northeast Park Hill Coalition hosts its monthly meeting the second Thursdays of the month. Location varies. Check the group’s Facebook page @ Northeast Park Hill Coalition for updates.

One World Singers

A choral group that performs music from diverse cultures and traditions, nurturing the musical abilities of all who wish to sing. Rehearsals every Thursday, September through May, at 7 p.m. at St. Thomas Church, 22nd and Dexter. Email Sandy at owsmanager@yahoo. com or go to OneWorldSingers.org for more information.

Park Hill Community Bookstore

Established in 1971. Denver’s oldest nonprofit bookstore. Used and new books. 4620 E. 23rd Avenue. 303-355-8508.  Members and volunteers get discounts and book credits. Check parkhillbookstore.org for current hours of operation.

Park Hill Peloton

A recreational group of road cyclists that roll from Park Hill once or twice a week. Check the current status of their rides on the Park Hill Peloton Facebook page.

Sie Filmcenter

2510 E. Colfax, denverfilm.org, 303595-3456.

Free Zoom Tai Chi

Thousands of our neighbors have been living unsheltered and are struggling for basic services. Thousands more are newcomers to Colorado and the United States, arriving with little to nothing. So many can use your help. Check out our online list of organizations who accept donations — everything from clothes and furniture to bikes and baby essentials. greaterparkhill.org/spreading-thelove/

Faith Community greaterparkhill.org/faith

Greater Park Hill’s faith community, home to over 30 places of worship in just four square miles, is as diverse and robust as the neighborhood itself. The GPHN maintains a list of Park Hill’s places of worship at the website above. Contact individual places of worship for information about their current state of operations.

Free morning beginner Tai Chi classes on Zoom every Friday at 10 a.m. and Wednesday at 6 p.m. Register at taichidenver.com/beginner-tai-chizoom-class/. Longtime Park Hillians Jacqui and Joe, who teach the class, will send you the link to join.

Walk2Connect

www.walk2connect.com

Park Hill Sunrise Walking Trips happen every Tuesday from 7:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. Meet in front of Honey Hill Cafe at 23rd & Dexter Street for a casual, conversational-paced community walk. Everyone is welcome.

gphn cLA s s I f I eds

CONCRETE

Concrete work and repair. Driveway, patios, and sidewalks. Small jobs are welcome. 25 years experience. Free estimates. 303-429-0380

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

LICENSED GENERAL CONTRAC-

TOR IN PARK HILL! Also CERTIFIED for Lead Paint Safety and Compliance; Small Jobs are Great. Kitchen (backsplashes, floors), Bath, Home Offices, all phases of remodeling. Energy Star Windows, Doors, Insulation. Custom Wood Fences. Mold and Mildew Remediation. Call Mark-303-921-3161; pikerprojects@gmail.com - Remodeling; usabatement@yahoo.com – Lead-Based Paint

GUTTERS

Gutter Cleaning, repairs, and replacement. Gutter Cleaning prices start at $150 – House, Garage, Porches, and walks. 303-907-9223/skmehaffey@ gmail.com

HOUSE CLEANING

ExceptionalHouseCleaning # 1, Inc. Since 1997 Licensed-Insured-Bonded. Weekly, Bi-Weekly, 3Weeks, Monthly, Move-In, Move-Out. Free estimates. Tom Nguyen: Office & Cell: 303-3493153. Email: exceptionalhousecleaning@ gmail.com. Website: https://exceptionalhousecln.wixsite.com/home. CreditCard. PayPal. Venmo. Zelle

MASONRY SERVICES

Masonry Services- Brick, Stone, Concrete repairs, restoration, tuckpointing, chimneys, retaining walls, city sidewalks; planter boxes. 303-907-9223/ skmehaffey@gmail.com

PAINTING

Interior and exterior painting. Prep,

power washing, professional. Owned and operated by Park Hill resident with over 20 years of experience. Free estimate. JR Painting 720-485-7207 or jpabz04@gmail.com

Painting: Interior, exterior, small jobs welcome; sheetrock repairs and texture. 303-907-9223/ skmehaffey@gmail.com

ROOFING

Roofing: Repairs, Inspections, Flashings, Hail Damage, and reroofing licensed, bonded, and insured. Gutter replacement and cleaning. 303-9079223/ skmehaffey@gmail.com

SKI & SNOWBOARD CARE

www.centralparkskiboardtuning.com

Ski and snowboard waxing and tuning. Free pickup and delivery to residence. Visit website or text Brett 303-929-7294

TREE TRIMMING

Tree trimming and trash removal. General yard work and clean up. Gutter cleaning. Please call 303-429-0380

TUCKPOINTING

Over 25 years of experience. Fully insured. Mortar color and brick matching, broken brick replacement, cement chimney crown replacement. 12 years Chicago union experience. Mr. Chimney and Home Masonry Repair. Call Chuck Bahnsen 303-948-7999

WINDOWS

Window and Gutter Cleaning. First Floor Only. Call Bob at Twin Pines Window Cleaning, 303 329 8205

Double-hung window RESTORATION includes replacing sash cords (ropes) and removal of excess paint on wood and metal plus lubrication for smooth opening and closing. 40-year resident of PH. Contact David - 720-550-2786

To advertise in the Classifieds contact newspaper@greaterparkhill.org 720-287-0442 (voicemail). the deadline for submission is the 15th of every month