Greater Park Hill News January 2025

Scary Scenes, Spotty Info

Little Police Outreach And Scant Follow-Up Amid Gun Violence And Other Crimes Unnerves Neighbors

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

Item #1: On Oct. 27, at about 12:30 a.m., a barrage of gunfire erupted on the high-density residential and business block of Fairfax Street between 28th and 29th avenues. Windows were shot, including at Long Table Brewhouse, Copper Door Coffee and the office of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. The windows of townhouses and apartments were also hit with bullets, while people were inside their homes. Remarkably, no one was injured. The Denver Police Department (DPD) included a brief post on the social media site X (formerly Twitter) that “multiple shots” had been fired at several other locations in the area that night, including at 38th and Jasmine. All were related.

Item #2: On Nov. 9, in the middle of the afternoon, some (not all) residents living in that same area, at 28th and Forest, received this reverse 911 message from the police. “For your safety, shelter in place by locking and staying away from doors and windows.” Some neighbors looking out their windows reported a scarylooking scene: A police sharpshooter was positioned on top of a generator, aiming a long gun at an unknown threat. Police sent a second text

an hour later: “Denver Police has completed their investigation . . . You may resume your normal activities.” No details were provided about what had happened.

Item #3: On Nov. 24, at approximately 9:30 p.m., Denver Police posted on the social media platform X that three people had been shot near Montview Boulevard and Quebec Street (the location of Campus

Mosaic and Denver School for the Arts). The people were transported to the hospital, extent of injuries unknown. No suspect was identified. The DPD later tweeted that a fourth victim had also been injured. “All four victims are juvenile males. No arrests have been made at this time, investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime-stoppers at 720-913-7867.”

continued on page 6

Park Hill To The Senate Presidency: James Coleman’s Got

By Cara DeGette Editor, GPHN

On election night in 2016, James Coleman went to bed, trailing another candidate in his race for Colorado House District 7. He slept soundly, he says, knowing he had given it everything he had.

“I woke up winning by 84 votes, and here we are,” Coleman says. Eight years later, Coleman is sitting in the big chair — the one reserved for the President of the Colorado Senate. When the legislature convenes on January 8, Coleman, 37 years old, will be wielding the gavel. That’s a pretty good run for a Park Hill kid who got kicked out of Smiley Middle School in 7th grade for fighting bullies.

“I either had to go to a juvenile continued on page 4

Colorado State Senate President James Coleman, settling into his new office at the Capitol. Photo by Cara DeGette

A bullet pierced the window in the early morning hours of Oct. 27 at the Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. office at 2823 Fairfax St. The bullet lodged in a wall inside. It was one of dozens that were fired, shattering numerous windows on the block. The shootings are still under investigation. Photo courtesy of Lori Midson

Spread Some Love

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

The next year, maybe even four, are going to be tough for many. And we’re not just talking about what’s going to happen in our nation’s capital.

Fueled by $150 million in federal cash, the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit project has broken ground. The plan is to install bus lanes down the center of Colfax Street from Broadway east to Aurora, at Yosemite Street. Along that stretch, car traffic will be reduced from two lanes to one in each direction. Much of the car parking on Colfax will be eliminated.

struggling. The store has been in the neighborhood for 75 years, filling Park Hill homes with stunning floral arrangements and also providing donations and support to local schools and to the Park Hill Home Tour.

The owners of Viva! Mexican Coffee Shop at 4900 E. Colfax are also worried about the future. The husband-wife team only recently opened the artsy Latin-accented coffee shop — a longtime dream. Their reality right now? Road construction, making it hard for customers to get to their front door.

Neighborhood leaders aren’t convinced BRT is a good thing.

City boosters have been promoting the plan for several years. Neighborhood leaders aren’t as convinced BRT is a good thing, and neither are many people who live just north and south of Colfax, who will certainly be impacted by increased car traffic in their neighborhoods.

The owners of businesses along Colfax — who will be hit hard by disruptions from construction and the resulting loss of customer access — are already experiencing pain.

Last month, two Colfax establishments closed. Fiction Beer, the taproom at 7101 E. Colfax, closed after a 10-year run. In a December Westword story about the closing, co-owner Christa Kilpatrick cited burnout and a need to have a less stressful future. A second Fiction brewery, in Parker, remains open.

GB Fish and Chips, which served up traditional British fare at its 5325 E. Colfax Ave. location, also closed, without much warning. The restaurant’s three other locations — near Sloan’s Lake, on South Broadway and in Arvada — remain open.

Last month, one of the owners of Ed Moore Florist at 6101 E. Colfax — a delightful shop filled with flowers, plants, cards, balloons and whimsical gifts — reported it is

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

CoNtACt US

Story Tips and Letters to the Editor: Cara DeGette:

Ed Moore Florist and Viva! Mexi are just two of dozens of independently-owned restaurants and shops in the neighborhood and especially on Colfax, that need support right now.

Go give them all some love.

Need some inspiration? Our December issue last month featured our first-ever restaurant guide of 75 independently-owned eating and drinking establishments in and around Park Hill. If you missed the guide, you can access it at tinyurl. com/PHEatDrink.

Unfortunately, the print version of the guide inadvertently omitted Long Table Brewhouse. The establishment is at 2895 Fairfax St. at the corner of 29th and Fairfax Street. Long Table occupies a renovated building that dates back to the 20s. It serves up some memorable craft beer. They’re open seven days a week, so you know what to do.

Last month, we also published a list of all of the businesses that advertised in the newspaper in 2024. The Greater Park Hill News, which has published since 1960, relies on support from the community. Our advertisers allow us to make that happen.

The next time you patronize one of these businesses, please let them know you appreciate their advertising choice – it means the world to us.

Happy New Year.

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.

Greater Park Hill

The Smallest Towhee

Green-tailed Towhees are quite secretive — they spend much of their time foraging around in dense low thickets. But, as the Cornell Lab of Ornithology points out, they occasionally pop into view and can be heard whistling a little song or making a querulous-sounding mewing call. Green-tailed Towhees are the smallest towhees, with stunning deep olive and yellow-green coloring. This little bird was photographed at Bluff Lake Nature Center just east of Park Hill by Mark Silverstein.

Marcy Eastman

marcy_eastman_denver

program or private school,” Coleman says. That was in 1999, and his mom learned about the new ACE Scholarship program. Founded by several conservative Colorado pro-voucher businessmen, the scholarships help provide low-income parents a way to send their children to K-12 schools of their choice.

Coleman was in the first class of ACE Scholars. He attended the Excel Institute, a school that was once housed at the Union Baptist Church at Martin Luther King Boulevard and Dahlia Street.

It was, Coleman says, the first time he had a Black teacher. It was the first time he had a Black principal. “Everyone was like my mother, so when I got out of school the first day I said to my [real] mother, ‘You’ve got to get me out of here’ — ’cause everyone was really on me, and making sure I was doing what I was supposed to be doing.

“At my other school no one was paying attention, and now everyone is paying attention like a mother

Contact Your Representative

Colorado State Senate

Sen. James Coleman

Senate District 33, includes Park Hill james.coleman.senate@coleg.gov

303-866-4864

Colorado House of Representatives

Rep. Jennifer Bacon

House District 7, includes Park Hill jennifer.bacon.house@coleg.gov

303-866-2909

Rep. Lindsay Gilchrist

House District 8, includes Park Hill lindsay.gilchrist.house@coleg.gov

would — it was a weird feeling. They weren’t going to let me slip and slide and do stuff in class.

“My mom said, ‘You are exactly where you need to be.’ ”

‘My version of Obama’

There was another new experience: Black history being taught as part of the daily curriculum — not as an elective, and not just during Black History Month.

“Wellington Webb was the mayor of Denver at the time, and he walked into my classroom and that was my version of Obama,” Coleman says. “He was larger than life — he still is — and I did not know we could be that. That was a big turning point in my life.”

Another life-changing event for Coleman was connecting with his dad. Coleman is one of nine children, the baby in a blended family where his next sibling is 10 years older. His early years were with his mom and his grandma and grandpa at 36th and Monaco Parkway, where Coleman, continued from page 1

Sen. James Coleman, with legendary East High School basketball Coach Rudy Carey at a Park Hill Pirates Day of Legends celebration at Skyland Park two years ago. Photo by Cara DeGette

Coleman’s collection of campaign buttons. Photo by Cara DeGette

his grandma still lives.

For several years, he and his mom lived in Nevada, and when they moved back to Denver he met his dad for the first time. Coleman was 11. His dad was 61, a street preacher who, instead of the movies or trips to the park, took his son to volunteer at soup kitchens and nursing homes and food pantries.

Coleman became an ordained minister at 13. In 2009 he graduated from Oral Roberts University in Oklahoma with degrees in psychology and business administration. The following year he and his childhood sweetheart Shayna got married, bought a house in Green Valley Ranch, and had twins, James Jr. and Naomi.

A new type of ministry

After college Coleman worked for 24-hour Fitness and Home Depot, putting in 12-hour days and earning $20,000 a year. He recruited students for ACE Scholars — the organization that provided his middle school scholarship. He founded a nonprofit organization called FaithBridge,

James Coleman at 11. He played with the Park Hill Pirates youth football organization for two years.

Photo courtesy of James Coleman

connecting innercity churches with kids for food, clothing, tutoring, after school programs and other support.

In 2016, he found himself considering a new type of ministry: public service.

The late state Sen. Gloria Tanner, an influential powerhouse who inspired generations of Black leaders in Northeast Denver, urged him to run for the Colorado House of Representatives. So did Mayor Webb and his wife, former Rep. Wilma Webb, Coleman says, They were joined by a who’s who of other Colorado Black leaders — Hons. Rosemary Marshall, John Buckner, Peter Groff, Terrance Carroll, Angela Williams, Brother Jeff Fard, Cleo Parker Robinson.

“My community called me,” Coleman says.

He defeated two other Democrats in his bid for the state House. Four years later, in 2020, he ran for and won the open state senate seat that Angela Williams vacated — a district that includes Park Hill, Green Valley Ranch and Montbello. This November, Coleman was reelected with nearly 84 percent of the vote.

Shortly after the election, his colleagues selected him to be Senate President, which means he presides over day-to-day operations and serves on top legislative committees.

“What I want to do is two things,”

he says: One: To pass effective bills that can be implemented and enforced, with the intended impacts; and Two: To promote members of the Senate.

“This isn’t a hard job, but it’s a challenging job, and there’s a difference to me in those words,” Coleman says. “It’s challenging making $42,000 a year (the salary of a state legislator in Colorado). We’re getting paid to work January to May, but really we’re working the whole year. Wherever you go you’re putting your public life on display.”

Colorado must be ready

not just a $1 billion deficit in the state budget and pressing issues that include Colorado’s ongoing affordable housing crisis and spiraling health care costs.

Policies of a second Trump administration may very well have immediate impacts in Colorado, and the state must be ready in its response.

“I woke up winning by 84 votes, and here we are.”

During a December interview with the Greater Park Hill News, Coleman sat behind his desk, wearing a Park Hill Pirates T-shirt and jeans. His Barack and Michelle Obama bobblehead dolls were arranged on his desk, but much of the rest of his office was still in the moving-in stage, with photos of his mentors and heroes waiting to be hung on the walls.

Coleman is keenly aware of the challenges in the months ahead —

Trump, who will be sworn in on Jan. 20, has vowed to deport millions of undocumented people, eliminate the US Department of Education, kill the Affordable Health Care Act. Medicaid and Social Security are under threat. Environmental policies and protections, reproductive health, LGBTQ+ rights, civil rights and Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs and protections are all under attack.

“We’re going to need to focus on how we can be proactive,” Coleman says. “We have to have a shared definition of what it means to do the work. It means we talk to each other, across the aisle, with the (governor), with the state departments, with the lobby. We have to find solutions.”

Crime, continued from page 1

Item #4: On Dec. 13, DPD tweeted about a shooting at East Colfax Avenue and Cherry Street. The victim, with unknown injuries, died, making it a homicide. “Investigation is ongoing, detectives are working to develop suspect information. Any further information will be posted on this thread . . . Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers.”

Denver at a ‘crossroads’

While he was running in 2023, Mayor Mike Johnston made a campaign promise to tackle crime and improve public safety. Denver, he said, is at a “crossroads.”

“We can continue down our current path of increased crime, understaffed law enforcement, and a growing sense of helplessness … [or] we can get back to the city that we’re all proud of, a city where you feel at home in every neighborhood. Denverites deserve that sense of peace and safety; as the next Mayor, I will not stop until we deliver it.”

where it used to be, but there needs to be more change and improvement.”

For starters: the way the cops communicate with the public.

“The police never tell you what’s going on,” Bloom says. “They’ve got the Twitter site (X) and they may tell you there’s a car accident on I-70 and that’s it. They don’t tell you if there’s a hostage situation on your block, or a shooting. These are significant things.”

To illustrate that point, consider the four items listed earlier.

The way the cops communicate

“I love the neighborhood and I don’t want to publicly portray it as the Wild West ... but there needs to be more change and improvement.”

— Darren Bloom

In 2024, as of Dec. 18, overall Denver crime rates dipped by less than 7 percent from the year before. Violent crimes decreased by less than 1 percent.

By comparison, crime in South Park Hill increased last year by 10 percent overall, with sharp spikes in robberies, burglaries and aggravated assault. Between 2023 and 2024, crime overall in North Park Hill and Northeast Park Hill decreased just slightly — by 1 to 2 percentage points — though both of those areas of the neighborhood experienced marked increases in several types of violent crimes. (See graphic on the next page for District 2 crime highlights.)

Much more than the statistics themselves, are growing complaints about slow police response times, and a lack of communication, follow-up or public accountability by the department after crimes have occurred. At a November meeting of the Greater Park Hill Community, one attendee put it this way: “It is impossible to get any information from the police.”

“I love the neighborhood and I don’t want to publicly portray it as the Wild West,” said another neighbor, Darren Bloom, who lives near 29th and Fairfax. “The neighborhood has come a long way from

Update #1: Ten days after the windows of businesses and residences were shot out on 28th and Fairfax and surrounding neighborhoods, two community outreach officers attended a Greater Park Hill Community monthly meeting to provide updates about crime and police activities. When asked for an update on the shooting — which had happened on the same block the meeting was taking place — the officers said they hadn’t even heard about it.

Audience members were incredulous, several saying that they had heard that as many as 150 rounds had been fired that night, on a high-density block housing dozens of apartments and businesses. The story had even made the TV news. “We don’t watch the news,” one of the officers said.

On Dec. 9, the Greater Park Hill News filed an open records request seeking a police report and additional information about the status of the investigation. This was the DPD’s response — almost two months after the shooting: “Denver Police officers responded to a call for shots fired into buildings in the 2800 block of Fairfax St. No injuries were reported as a result. The case is under investigation. No reports are available at this time. Anyone with information is asked to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers.”

Update #2: A month after the Nov. 10 shelter-in-place warning was sent to residents living near 2800 Forest St., the Greater Park Hill News filed an open records request seeking a police report about the incident. This was the DPD’s response: “Ali Yusuf (Date of birth 11/5/2000) was arrested for Investigation of Felony

Owned by a Park Hill Resident!

Menacing. As this is an active court case, please reach out to the Denver District Attorney’s office for your request.”

Update #3: On Dec. 9, the Greater Park Hill News filed an open records request seeking information about the shooting at Montview Boulevard and Quebec Street — which had occurred more than two weeks earlier. Specifically requested were the ages of the victims, the extent of their injuries, whether any remained hospitalized and their connection to the area. This was the DPD’s response: “Three of the victims are teenagers. One of the victims is an adult. All are expected to survive their injuries. We generally do not provide information that can potentially identify victims. The case is under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Metro Denver Crime Stoppers.”

Update #4: As of Dec. 20 — a week

after the Dec. 13 killing at Colfax and Cherry — Denver police have not posted any additional information or updates to its X account, including who died, the manner of death, or the status of the investigation.

The X Factor

X is the social media platform owned by the world’s richest man, Elon Musk. Since the November election Musk has assumed the position as one of Donald Trump’s most influential advisors — he has been labeled a “shadow president” because of the way he has already begun to wield power, including via X.

In recent months many groups and individuals have stopped posting on X as it has grown increasingly strident in its embrace of right-wing ideology. However, at the end of 2024 Musk’s platform continues to be the official channel by which the Denver Police Department communicates with the public.

District 2 Crimes 2023-2024*

Source: Denver Police Department

These figures represent crimes reported in Denver Police Department District 2, which includes all or parts of the following neighborhoods: North Park Hill, Northeast Park Hill, South Park Hill, Capitol Hill, Central Park, Cheesman, Cherry Creek, City Park, Clayton, Cole, Congress Park, Cory-Merrill, Country Club, East Colfax, Elyria-Swansea, Five Points, Green Valley Ranch, Hale, HampdenSouth, Highland, Hilltop, Lowry, Montclair, Skyland, Villa Park and Whittier.

Crime figures and statistics for all Denver police districts and individual neighborhoods can be found at tinyurl.com/DPDCrimeDashboard. The information is updated regularly.

As of Dec. 18, reported crimes in Denver overall dropped less than 7 percent in 2024 from 2023. The DPD breaks Park Hill into

*As of Dec. 18, 2024

three separate neighborhoods.

In Northeast Park Hill, the total number of crimes decreased slightly (less than 2 percent) between 2023 and 2024. Several types of crimes, however, increased, including sexual assault, burglary, drug/alcohol offenses, crimes against persons and “other.”

In North Park Hill, the total number of crimes increased slightly (less than 1 percent) between 2023 and 2024. Several types of crimes, however, rose, including aggravated assault, auto theft and public disorder.

In South Park Hill, the total number of crimes increased nearly 10 percent between 2023 and 2024. Several types of crimes spiked, including robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, crimes against persons and drug/alcohol offenses.

Be a Climate hero

Answer Planet Earth’s Call For Action In 2025

By Tracey MacDermott For the GPHN

At the end of November, the 29th Conference of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (COP 29) was held. For many, it was a disappointment, beginning with the president of Azerbaijan praising oil and gas as a “gift from the gods.”

While the previous conference focused on limiting the rise of global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius, this year’s conference was centered on how to pay and who would pay for the mess we humans have created.

ing quarterly neighborhood cleanup events. Please check back in the months to come for dates and other specifics.

Did you know that our neighborhood has a group of volunteers that help kids get to school on their bikes? The Bike Bus is currently in operation at both Park Hill Elementary and Odyssey School. The Bike Bus encourages movement for the kids, reduces emissions and promotes wellbeing in our community.

Our homes are overflowing with items we rarely use.

The year 2030 is on the horizon, and each day of inaction is making it nearly impossible to stay below 1.5 degrees. That is the necessary benchmark to avoid the dangerous and serious effects of climate change. Yet each year, new data shows that we are missing promised targets and falling further behind. We are pushing the limits of what Earth can handle and catapulting us towards a global catastrophe.

This may leave you wondering if there really is anything that can be done. Organizers of this year’s Earth Day (earthday.org) certainly think so, and you, too, can be an agent of change for positive results for Mother Earth.

You may have already considered your New Year’s resolutions. Maybe becoming a climate hero wasn’t on your list, but the world is calling on you. Get inspired and make an action plan for 2025 that will lower your impact; be the change that is needed in our community.

Trying to solve a global problem that will take all of us is overwhelming and seemingly insurmountable. But small actions taken by many of us can create meaningful change.

Here are but a few:

Globally, we throw out two billion tons of trash every year. Much of that trash is harmful to the environment, wreaking havoc on unsuspecting wildlife, poisoning our soil and destroying waterways. Let’s reduce this, starting with the trash on our own streets. This year Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. will be host-

(The Park Hill School Bike Bus rides every Wednesday, rain or shine — check out the pledge and all details at tinyurl.com/PHSchoolBikeBus. More on the national Bike Bus movement is at bikebus. world.)

Beyond biking to school, can you reduce your car trips by walking and biking more for errands and getting to appointments? Carpool with your neighbors and colleagues. Denver has e-bike rebates to help get you into a new, clean way to get around our city. (Check out denvergov.org/ Government/Agencies-DepartmentsOffices/Agencies-DepartmentsOffices-Directory/Climate-ActionSustainability-and-Resiliency/ Cutting-Denvers-Carbon-Pollution/ Sustainable-Transportation/ElectricBike-Rebates.)

Or maybe it is time to get an electric car and vow to reduce your air travel in 2025. One less airplane trip can reduce your footprint by almost two tons of CO2.

Maybe you are a gardener. Would you be willing to help coordinate produce swaps this spring to help reduce food waste and get food to those in need? Shoot me an email at traceymacdermott@gmail.com.

Composting food scraps helps prevent methane emissions and also returns nutrients right back into your soil. Eating more vegetables, fruits, and nuts, and cutting down on meat and dairy, also lowers your environmental impact.

At home, work on reducing your energy usage. Wash your clothes in cold water, skip the dryer, switch to LED bulbs and energy-efficient appliances. Research rebates to see if you can convert your gas appliances to

   

electric. If you are not ready to ditch the gas furnace, could you buy an offset with a solar and wind farm? Stop the purchasing madness! We throw away so much and our homes are overflowing with items we rarely use. Shop secondhand, and repair what you can (see Mark Kuhl’s column on page 23 for a great new directory on related Denver businesses). When you do need to buy, please consider companies that have proven to reduce their impacts and are not funding fossil fuels or deforestation.

Plant native species in your yard. This helped increase the biodiversity within Park Hill, helps native wildlife with food sources and enhances our beautiful neighborhood.

Use your voice. Get inspired, talk with neighbors and be the change. Make a goal each month to lower harmful impacts. Let us know what you are doing. Let’s motivate each other.

Tracey MacDermott is an at-large board member of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. She was trained as a Climate Reality Leader in 2017. She chairs the Sustainability Committee for the Business and Professional Women of Colorado and the National Federation for Business and Professional Women. Email her at traceymacdermott@gmail.com

It’s A Dog-Eat-Dog world

Wily And Smart, Coyotes Adapt To Life In The City

Coyotes are wild medium-sized members of the dog family. Ranging in bulk from 20 to 40 pounds, they have long, narrow muzzles, yellow eyes and large, triangular ears.

They may be wild, but they inhabit the grassland and park areas in and around Denver. In fact, according to Denver Parks and Recreation, the coyotes’ intelligence and adaptability has made them one of the few species able to expand their range — even as natural areas are reduced by development and sprawl and as other animal species decline in numbers. Along the Front Range, breeding season occurs in the winter months — in January and February — and the pups are born in April and May.

Coyotes’ ability to survive and thrive in urban areas has made them a potential concern for city dwellers. They can be a threat

to cats or small dogs, and they consider these pets to be potential prey. The diets of coyotes generally consists of 40 percent rodents and 20 percent fruit, with the rest from scavenged food and other small animals.

Coyotes can be seen with some frequency at the nearby Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, Cherry Creek State Park, and the Westerly Creek open space area east of Park Hill. They are crepuscular — meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife department recommends keeping cats inside to ensure their safety. The department recommends that dogs be kept on short leashes and not be allowed to interact or play with wildlife. It is recommended to pick up small dogs when coyotes are visible.

For more information on coyotes in Denver, see tinyurl.com/ DenverCoyotes.

Story and photos by Reid Neureiter For the GPHN

Coyote at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge in November.

winnie the wonderdog

This Park Hill Pooch Is A Finalist On America’s Favorite Pet. Voting Begins Jan. 6 At Americasfavpet.com

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

When you see Winnie the Goldendoodle in the neighborhood, just start talking to her. It really is the cutest thing. Her head tilts to the left, uh huh, and then to the right, oh yes, and then back to the left again.

Winnie likes to jump up and put her one front paw on your chest and give your face a bath. Her other front leg was amputated last April, after an accident damaged a nerve in her leg.

Julie Conrad, Winnie’s human, says that setback hasn’t changed the pup’s personality. Winnie’s the same friendly, quirky and happy dog. Her favorite toys are the squeaky ones that she can throw around. She likes to play tug with towels. She romps around with other pups of all ages and sizes.

“She falls every once in awhile but she doesn’t care — she is so happy to see every person in the world,” Conrad says.

Conrad has lived in Park Hill for 12 years, and she got Winnie 2 1/2 years ago, the classic story of love at first sight. Disaster struck in 2023 when Winnie, who was in the back seat of Conrad’s car, jumped out of the open window. Conrad and a team of vets spent 14 months trying to heal Winnie’s leg to make it usable, but last April it had to be amputated. “She’s just adapted really well to the surgery,” Conrad says.

Last month Winnie was named one of just 20 dog finalists in America’s Favorite Pet, an annual national competition that kicks off this month.

Here’s how it works: Beginning Jan. 6, anybody can cast votes for one of 20 dogs (cats have their own category) at the website americasfavpet.com, or by using the QR code at the site. People can cast a vote for their favorite dog and cat every 24 hours over a period of several weeks. The pets who get the most votes advance to the next round, and by the end of January, the number of competitors is whittled to five dogs and five cats. The voting continues until one dog and one cat emerge on top.

The winning dog gets a two-page spread in the magazine Modern Dog (the winning feline gets a similar treatment in Modern Cat).

The winners also receive $10,000. If Winnie wins, Conrad says the cash could help recoup some of the vet care costs she’s incurred. She says she would also use some of any winnings to train Winnie to be a therapy dog to work with veterans or cancer survivors or kids who have lost a limb.

“She would need the training to learn to calm down a bit to be a therapy dog, but she would be so great doing that, Conrad says. “She is such a sweet girl and loves everyone she meets.”

Winnie, a Goldendoodle, with her human Julie Conrad. Winnie’s right front leg had to be amputated last year, but Conrad reports Winnie is as happy and friendly as ever. On a whim, Conrad entered Winnie in the national America’s Favorite Pet competition. She learned last month that Winnie is one of 20 finalists.

Thank You Neighbors

Thanks to your support, participating real estate agents have proudly donated over $50,000 to the Greater Park Hill Community Food Pantry since 2015. These community-focused agents will continue this generous tradition in 2025 with a donation of $100 per transaction in Park Hill!

NATALIE HENGEL The Agency

CAROLYN DOOLING Compass

JAY EPPERSON Compass

LAURA HUDGINS Compass

KELLY HUDSON Compass

DAVID KROHNE Compass

HEATHER HALLER Compass

MARK BAKER City2Summit Realty

JANIE STODDARD Coldwell Banker Global Luxury

COMBS SELLS HOMES Kentwood Real Estate

JOHN WYSZYNSKI Gerretson Realty

NINA KUHL HomeSmart

ROBERTA LOCKE Home Smart

ANN TORGERSON HomeSmart

CHRISTINE DUPONT-PATZ RE/MAX of Cherry Creek

TEAM HETTERICH RE/MAX of Cherry Creek

THE ELEVATED TEAM RE/MAX of Cherry Creek

CHARM GILMORE Roet Realty

EMILY ROET Roet Realty

MARY GERWIN PorchLight Real Estate Group

SHAYLISA TURNER PorchLight Real Estate Group

JESSICA AVERY PorchLight Real Estate Group

BEN LUSZ PorchLight Real Estate Group ALLISON NUANES PorchLight Real Estate Group

No Bulldozer In The Picture

Regarding your December news story titled Shake, Rattle And Roll, about the work being done on Albion Street and surrounding areas, I have two comments:

# 1: Nowhere in the article do you ever address the fact the Park Hill residents don’t want flooding on the streets, which often leads to home flooding as well. This new storm system is part of protecting their assets and the neighborhood.

# 2: Most concerning about the article is your use of the term “bulldozer.” There is not a single bulldozer pictured, nor have I noticed one in the construction area. While all of these vehicle types are heavy equipment, your classification is akin to calling a fork a spoon just because it is a utensil.

Jesse Goldman, Park Hill

Sick Of The Cavalier Attitude

After reading the two-part series, Nightmare on Albion Street and Shake, Rattle and Roll, in the November and December issues, I felt so much empathy for our neighbors going through this. Putting new infrastructure in older neighborhoods is a challenge.

But as I reread Part 2 last month, I felt an old pet peeve of mine rise up. Communication. Why is our city so poor at it? It’s all well and good for the city to lay the blame on Xcel Energy for not notifying residents of the work ahead; very convenient. I believe that city officials also had an obligation to tell residents that their sidewalks, streets and landscaping were about to be torn apart and they would be in an intense construction zone for months. These projects do not come into being overnight — they take

months and years of planning. Why weren’t homeowners kept informed of this project early on?

The manager of the upcoming project, Matt Fariss, sounded almost gleeful in explaining the scope of the Albion Street stormwater construction. Maybe it’s just my reading of the piece, but it was as if he was telling residents that if you hated the first project, well now we will give something to really complain about. And we are using your tax money to do this.

In the late October meeting with residents, city officials said that the intense vibrations from the project could damage homes and having your home checked by a structural engineer would be wise. Giving residents so little time to get this done is irresponsible. You might get an engineer out, but you certainly would be lucky to get any structural work done in time.

The lack of support from city Councilman Darrell Watson is another incredulous aspect. It took neighbors two months to get on his calendar for a meeting? He was not aware of this project? Excuse me, but that is his job. If a project this invasive goes unnoticed by the elected representative of the neighborhood, it shows an amazing amount of indifference to the community, bordering on incompetence.

The overall feeling one gets from reading the news coverage (so far) is that our city has a cavalier attitude with these invasive projects and really doesn’t feel the need to share details with property owners and residents — who will be feeling the effects of this project every single day for a year. And to add to the misery, the city hopes your house will not fall down, and if it does, well, we warned you.

That attitude has been in place for some time. It’s the reason I got involved with a planning project years ago that involved all of Park Hill, yet hardly anyone knew about it. I understand how hard it is to reach out to the community, as we get our information from a variety of sources. The U.S. mail would seem to be a place to start, and our community newspaper would be an excellent vehicle for the city to announce projects and update information. But that requires planning, foresight, and a commitment to transparency.

Gary Martyn, Park Hill    Editor’s note: The link to Part 1, Nightmare on Albion Street, is greaterparkhill.org/nightmare-onalbion-street. Part 2, Shake, Rattle and Roll, can be read at greaterparkhill.org/shake-rattle-androll-2.

They Came Without Warning

In mid-December, our few quiet blocks on Kearney Street just south of Montview Boulevard were invaded by work vehicles lining both sides of the street. They grooved lines on pavements and dug post-holes in the tree-lawns in front of houses — with no warning or explanation.

I asked a man in a hard hat what was going on. He explained that it was “traffic calming,” and he gave me a card with a QR code. He said, “There was a sign hung on your door.” In fact, none of us were notified.

The last public meeting for “DenverSaferStreets” was held in 2022, to discuss safer bike routes through Denver. Apparently our street has

apparently the

been designated, but the measures taken so far have caused alarm, not calm.

A thicket of signs blaring “Road Narrows” appeared by Day 4 of the invasion. It is clear that the trapezoids scored into the pavement will also sprout a forest of reflector wands to force traffic into single file

at what looks like security bunkers around an embassy.

Neighbors who have lived here for 30 years say there have been no accidents on this street in decades, and the new traffic pattern may well confuse and pose danger to bicyclists and motorists alike. Locals here are courteous, used to giving way to other traffic and bicycles, and we wonder why a simpler solution, such as speed bumps, could not solve this problem?

Susan V. Walton, Park Hill

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 lettersto 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.

He lp Us Re cognize Comm unity Ch angemakers

A thicket of various signs has popped up without warning along several residential blocks along Montview Boulevard and on Kearney Street between Montview and Colfax —

city’s version of “traffic calming.” Photos by Cara DeGette

Stock Show Kicks Off Jan. 9

Denver’s National Western Stock Show kicks off on Jan. 9 with the annual parade of 30 longhorn cattle being driven through the heart of downtown Denver. Trailing the cattle will be horses, wagons, and marching bands. This year’s National Western parade Grand Marshal is 9NEWS Chief Meteorologist Kathy Sabine. The parade starts at noon at Union Station and proceeds up 17th Street.

The Stock Show itself runs Jan. 1126 at the National Western Complex, about four miles northwest of the heart of Park Hill. The event features dozens of rodeos, livestock judging competitions, dancing horse shows, auctions, exhibitions and booths. People from 40 states and 30 countries converge on the Mile High City for the annual event. Specialty rodeos include the “Colorado versus The World” rodeo, the Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza, PBR bull riding and the MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo.

For the full schedule and ticket info check out nationalwestern.com.

Jewish Film Fest Running Jan. 23-Feb. 2 At The JCC

The 29th annual Denver Jewish Film Festival kicks off Thursday, Jan. 23, with the film Running on Sand and concludes on Sunday, Feb. 2, with the film Centered: Joe Lieberman.

The festival is at the Mizel Arts and Culture Center at the Jewish Community Center south of Park Hill at 350 S. Dahlia St.

The festival features more than 20 entertaining and educational films, including documentaries, comedies, narratives and shorts from newly released Israeli and Jewish cinema, actors and producers.

For a complete list of films and events happening during the festival, visit jccdenver.org/macc/djff.

Tickets to the films are sold individually or can be purchased as festival passes.

To Perform Mahler’s Fourth Symphony

The Denver School of the Arts Full

Orchestra will perform Mahler’s Fourth Symphony on Saturday, Jan. 11 at Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church at 1980 Dahlia St. The Fourth Symphony – often referred to as The Ode to Heavenly Joy — is a complex piece that was composed in 1900 and illustrates a human’s heroic suffering as well as a child’s view of heaven.

The concert will be conducted by Dr. Enrique Lasansky, director of orchestras for DSA. Proceeds from the concert support the Orchestra/Band Performance Scholarship Fund, which provides financial support to music students at DSA. Doors open at noon, and the performance begins at 1 p.m. A reception follows.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors (65 and over) and $15 for students 18 and under. Tickets to stream the concert are also available for $20. Tickets can be obtained online at givebutter.com/c/huwsdD.

Order Free And Low-Cost Trees Now For Summer

Applications open in January to order free or low-cost trees from Denver Digs Trees, the organization dedicated to preserving, enhancing and advocating for Denver’s urban forest. This year’s tree selection includes the following: Bur Oak,

properties.

Cowboys and cowgirls driving a herd of longhorn cattle through the streets of downtown Denver means one thing: The Stock Show is back in town. File photo by Reid Neureiter

The Denver School of the Arts Full Orchestra, in a church in Venice during a tour of Italy in the spring of 2024. Photo courtesy of DSA

Western Catalpa, Western Hackberry, Autumn Gold Ginko, Espresso Kentucky Coffeetree, Chinkapin Oak, Golden Raintree, Ft. McNair Horsechestnut, Honeycrisp Apple, Purple Prince Crabapple and Ivory Silk Japanese Tree Lilac. The trees cost just $10 if you live in Northeast Park Hill, which is a target area for planting more trees, and $35 for other parts of the neighborhood. Applications are due Feb. 15 and tree pick-up is April 24- 26. Check out theparkpeople.org for applications.

MLK, Jr. Marade Is Jan. 20

Denver’s annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 20 — a day that coin-

Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade participants gather each year at the MLK, Jr. statue in City Park. This year’s march and parade is Monday, Jan. 20. File photo by Cara DeGette

cides this year with the presidential inauguration in Washington, DC.

The Denver Marade (march + parade) is one of the largest celebrations commemorating the birthday of the civil rights leader. Tens of thousands of participants gather at the MLK, Jr. statue in the southwest area of City Park beginning at 9:30 a.m. After a series of speeches by local politicos and dignitaries, participants march down the Esplanade in front of East High School to Colfax, then west up Colfax to the Colorado State Capitol. Check the website drmartinlkingjrchc.org and the group’s Facebook page DrMLKJrColoradoHolidayCommission for updates.

Everyone is welcome.

Bundles Of Thanks

The Greater Park Hill News utilizes a unique delivery system that includes nearly 400 volunteers who assist with the distribution of our publication. It is truly a community effort. We are grateful for the help of all our volunteers and take pride knowing we live in such a tight-knit community that rallies around the community paper.

Every month, volunteers gather at the Greater Park Hill Community office on Fairfax Street for a few hours

Carol Ahnen

Jody Allen-Smith

Mark Almquist

Micki Amick

Greg & Vicki Anderson

Robin Angstadt

Jamie Archambault

Brian Aucone

Greg Barnes

Maria Barreto

Brad Barrett

Oliver Bast

Christine Bejarano

Ruby Belcher

Howard Belon

Carolyn Bennoit

Bonita Bird

Jill Bishop

Lindsay & Craig Black/McQueen

Walter Blake

Marni Blake

Kent Boesdorfer

Hank Bootz

Andrea Bott

Diedre Bricker

Austin Brown

Julie Buck

Rachel Burbank

Sharon Burke

Mary Carnegie

Matt Cecere

Ann Cisneros

Emily Clark

Rachel Coates

Matthew Collver

Nora Colter

Janine Conklin

Elaine Connell

Lana Cordes

Catherine & Kevin Cray

Veronica D’Annibale

Dana Delaney

Wiley Daniel

Linda Davis

Sally Dischinger

Celsa Dominguez

Sara Donnelly

Tom & Kelly

Donohoue

Bernice & Steve

Donohoue

Erin Donovan

Kerry Dougherty

Shawn Dresser

David/Steve Dubas/O’Brien

Samanatha, Matt & Lindsay Dunbar

to assemble stacks of newspapers and bundle them for distribution. The bundles are then delivered to the doorsteps of the blockworkers, who deliver papers to their neighbors’ doorsteps.

This is how the Greater Park Hill News is distributed. It is a group effort and we are so grateful for your support!

If you’re interested in volunteering, contact newspaper manager Brenda Morrison at newspaper@ greaterparkhill.org or call 720-287-0442.

Christine Dupont-Patz

Jenny Dyer

Mark Dysart

Sarah Edstrom

Peg & Dan Ekstrand/Barnett

Sam & Cindy Ellis

Jean Ercolani

Noah & Emerson Erwin

Mona Estrada

Andy Ewing

Kola Fadeyi

Erin & Tom Fahres

Jack Farrar

Gemma Fedele

Carol Haller

Kevin Hallman

Lisa Halstead

John Harhai

David Harris

Amy Harris

Duke Hartman

Nam Henderson

Michael & Stephanie

Heringslack/ Ceccato

Lola Hershberger

Ric Heth

James Hewat

Margerie/Doug Hicks/Schuler

Everly Hildebrandt

Dana Johnson

Allison Johnson

Matt Jordan

Michele Joyce

Vera Kalba

Lynn &Trevor

Kalinauskas/ Williams

Tiffany Kampsnider

Chris Kannen

Lee Kastberg

Jeff Kean

Jackie Keller

Kizzy Kelly

Sue Kilgore

Ryan Kilpatrick

Mark Kintner

Clarice McCoy

Carol McDermott

Frank McLaughlin

Kathy McMichael

Megan McQuinn

Chris Merman

Lori Midson

Juniper Miller-Cole

Stacy Minjarez

Laurel Mohr

Paul Moore

Tom & Kim Mordick

Emily Morgan

Brenda Morrison

Norm Mueller

Adam Mueller

Sammie Muzikowski

Thank you to the following volunteer bundlers in 2024:

Hank Bootz

Martha Douglas

Maria Flora

Ian MacDonald

Sheila MacDonald

Sheldon Sidney Mikesell

Jimmy & Caron

Riley/Wetter

Cathy Rock

Becky Rold

Lisa Roll Moore

Cheyenne & Archer Rolon

Deb Rosenbaum

Allison Rosenthal

Maple Ross

Laura Rubin

Ann Salamy

Mary Salsich

Bob & Barb Sample

Bryan & Cooper Saunders

Julie Sawaya

We are thankful and grateful to these blockworker volunteers for delivering the Greater Park Hill News to the doorsteps of their neighbors in 2024. Without their volunteer service, the neighborhood distribution of our publication would not be possible.

The Greater Park Hill News is unique in that it relies on volunteers in the community to deliver our paper on their block or an adopted block in Park Hill. If you receive the paper on your doorstep, it is because of one of these fine volunteers.

Want to join the fun? Check out the online map at gphndelivery.greaterparkhill.org. The map shows blocks in Park Hill that currently need blockworkers. Then, pick a block or two, sign up and get started. It’s that easy.

Margie Feinberg

Sara Felsen

Harriet Felton

Maria Flora

Tommy Flowers

EJ Footer

Susan Fortney

Mike Friel

Regina Friend

Connie Friesen

Dave & Heather Gahlert/Colliander

Simone Garcia

Lori Gardner

Lisa Gardner

Mary Gerwin

Mario Giardiello

Dan Goe

Ellie Gora

Mary Gorham

Rose Gotseff

Thomas Gounley

Elaine Granata

Ted Griffith

Emily & Matt Groves

Jacqueline Hall

Ernestine Hall

Shari Hill

Laura Hill

Dave Hill

R.H. & Ronnie Hinkson

Leslie Hirsch

Kirstin Hoagland

Jody Hodges

Gisela Hollon

Chuck Holum

Sandy Hoops

Beth Hopkins

Stephanie Hoy

Joel Hunter-Pirtle

Andy & Tracy Hwang

Meg Ingram

Julia Jackson

Adam Jacobs

Bill/Mary Frances Jaster

Jocelyn Javernick

Tom Jensen

Kirstin Jensen

Christa Jimenez

Will Johnson

Jimmy Johnson

Gordon Johnson

Jane Klever

Frances Koehn

Robb Kolstad

Elin Kondrad

Tom Korson

Paul Kourkoulis

Nina Kuhl

Gretchen Kurtz

Bill Lakers

James & Rachelle

Larcus

Barbara Larsen

Elisabeth Lawrence

Nel Lenhart

Paulina Leon

Troy Lerner

Tony Livaudais

Roberta Locke

Johnnie Lofton

Natalie Love

David & Lisa Lucas

Lauren MacMillan

Cathy &Dave Manchester

Lisa Martinez

Gary Martyn

Margaret McCaskill

Kerry McClauss

Christina Naff

Steve Nelson

Erin Nielsen

Sarah Noyes

Megan Nyce

Elizabeth O’Rear

Keith & Kyle Olivera

Mark Onderdonk

Lesa Paige

Jordan Parman

Patty Paul

Jessica & Jeff Pearson

Becky Perkins

Kara Petillo

Janice Phillips

Danny Pier

Mauricio Ramirez

Paola Ramirez & Family

Kym Ray

Linda& Paul Redstone

Judy Regan

Libby & Bill

Reinhardt

Karl Reuter

Barbara Reyman

Carrie Richardson

Cindy Sawyer

Judy Schulman

Karin Schumacher

Art Schuster

Brandon Scott

Michael, Holly, Miles & Donovan

Scott

Susie Seawell

Katrina Sellers

Janet Shafer

K &Jason Shiroff

Lynn, Rich, & Katelyn Shults

Diane Sieg

Eric Sikkema

Kathy Simpson

Robyn Sims

MK Smith

Kelly Smith & Family

Jim & Betty Jo Smith

Elvin Smith

Eloise Smith

Madison Spangler

Cheryl & Jeff Spector/ Rosensweig

Brian Shaw

Mark Silverstein

Nan Young

Milo, Jasper & Lorrie Spoering

Erik, Michele & Eva Stark

Melissa Stearns

Sara Stoloff

Emily Stone

Troy Stribling

Amy Sumner

Jim Sund

Steve Sushinsky

Kate Swan

Alyssa, Sophia Swanson

Donna Swartzendruber

Mark Swinerton

Debby Sycamore

Frank Tapy

RT Taylor

Courtney Taylor

Corey Taylor

Celia Taylor

Chris Thomes

Forrest Thornily

Troy Tomsyck

Wallace/Yvonne Toulette

Jackson Turnacliff

Carl Turner

Dick Turner

Leslie Twarogowski

Gloria Valdez

Jamie Wagner

Bridget Walsh

Mary Ann Welch

Parker Wentworth

Anne Wheatley

Melani Whitcraft

Jenifer Whitlock

Britt Wilkenfeld

Josh Willett

Renee Williams

Chris Williams

Jeanne Wills

Polly Wirtz

Mary Wittemyer

Susan Wofford

Jude Wolf

Marsha Woodward

Meghan Wren

Ben Wright

Susan &Guy Wroble

Ann Yates

Nan & Brian Young/Kelly

Dick & Lorie Young

Connie Zahn

Lee Zarzecki

Cara DeGette

Laurel Mohr

Mike Quigley

Mary Salsich

Shoshi Shaw

ode To Blockworkers

Volunteers Deliver The News Of The Neighborhood. Here’s How It All Works — And How You Can Become A VIP in 2025

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

Here’s a puzzler to start off the year: Who is the most important person at a newspaper?

Some would say if it weren’t for reporters and writers, there’d be nothing to read. Others argue that photographers make the images that bring those stories alive. Editors pull the whole package together — surely they are the center of the universe.

Publishers are quick to point out that advertisers — and the ad sales team that secures those ads — hold the golden key. Advertising dough makes the whole operation possible.

All of these components are critical. But to me, no one is more important than the person who delivers the paper to your doorstep each month. If it weren’t for that person, no one could read it.

At the Greater Park Hill News, our delivery people are called blockworkers — these are the people who currently deliver the newspaper every month.

The blockworker program has been in place since the newspaper first began publishing, way back in 1960. Then, the civil rights movement was beginning to gain steam. Our neighborhood leaders were trying to figure out ways to halt redlining, foster integration and make sure Park Hill is a place where everyone is welcome. Having a newspaper to connect the community and help spread the word was part of that democratic ideal — and one that continues in 2025.

The concept of blockworkers — then, and now — is not just someone who delivers the paper. Sure, blockworkers bring the news of the com-

An online interactive map breaks Park Hill into 16 geographic sections. Check it out at gphndelivery. greaterparkhill.org.

Once you are there, you can click on any of the quadrants to see which blocks currently need blockworkers to deliver papers to their neighbors. You can sign up to volunteer on the spot.

Reproduction by

Tommy Kubitsky

munity, but they also are emissaries, promoting a sense of neighborliness that Park Hill is known for.

Right now the Greater Park Hill News has about 275 blockworkers who deliver the newspaper each month to their neighbors. They are all volunteers. A current list of our on-the-job superstars is on the page at left.

Here’s how it works:

Every month we make a newspaper. We fill it with news and feature stories, opinion columns, photographs, as well as advertisements from awesome businesses showcasing who they are and what they do. The issue is sent to the printer. A day or two later, the printer drops off stacks of the finished product to our office, at 2823 Fairfax St.

A handful of volunteers then breaks the newspapers into smaller bundles. Our delivery driver, Sheldon Sidney Mikesell, drops off those bundles to businesses in and around Park Hill. Sheldon also drops off bundles of newspapers to blockworkers all over the neighborhood.

Those blockworkers take the newspapers and walk or wheel around their square block. They leave a newspaper on each doorstep for their neighbors — a morning or afternoon stroll that takes maybe 20 minutes every month.

Currently 13,000 newspapers are distributed this way to homes and businesses in and around the neighborhood.

The system works pretty well, as long as every block has a volunteer. But here is where things sometimes get tricky.

Some blockworkers have been at it for years — even generations — and every month the Greater Park Hill

News gets delivered like clockwork. However, delivery in some parts of the neighborhood has been less reliable, particularly where there is a higher turnover of people moving in and out.

Our newspaper manager, Brenda Morrison, has developed an online interactive map to make it easy for people to identify parts of Park Hill that need blockworkers. Check it out, at gphndelivery.greaterparkhill. org. The map breaks the neighborhood into 16 geographic sections. Each shows where volunteer blockworkers are currently needed. A handy online form gets you started. Right now, the highest needs are in the easternmost sections of Park Hill, east of Monaco Boulevard from Colfax to 38th Avenue. But there are opportunities all over the neighborhood.

Now, here’s a novel idea: You do not need to live on the block where you live to be a blockworker. If you already receive the newspaper at your house every month, you can sign up to deliver the paper to another block — one that isn’t already covered.

Check out the online map and consider the possibilities. And then take the plunge: Resolve to make 2025 the year you join the VIP list and become a champion for community news.

A similar version of this story appeared in the January, 2024 edition.

Glenn and Sylvie Hirsch, in 2020. File photo

Dick and Lorie Young. File photo

A sampling of current and former blockworkers, from left: Ben Wright, Everly Hildebrandt, Lauren MacMillan, with her grandma Betty MacMillan. File photos

From left, Margie Feinberg, Janet Shafer, Lynda Keavney, Emily Clark, Janice Phillips, Bernadette Kelly and newspaper Manager Brenda Morrison. Photo by Cara DeGette

From left, Mike Quigley, Mary Salsich, Laurel Mohr and Martha Douglas at a bundling party in 2024. Every month volunteers gather at the Greater Park Hill Community office to get 13,000 issues of the Greater Park Hill News ready for delivery. File photo by Cara DeGette

force In Numbers

Banding Together: It’s What Makes A Democracy Thrive

By Tara Bannon Williamson Park Hill Librarian

Many Park Hill residents take pride in the historic social justice work of the Park Hill Action Committee, the noble band of neighbors who united from a coalition of churches and collaborated to create a more cohesive and accepting community in the 1960’s.

The Carnegie Library funds to erect the library at Montview Boulevard and Dexter Street — the building from which I am writing this —also came from a coalition of Park Hill churches, I have been told. Working together, change is made.

In Bowling Alone, social scientist Robert Putnam concluded after years of data analysis that the strength of a community is directly proportional to membership in clubs or associations. The more individualistic that people are, the more they bowl alone rather than in leagues, the weaker the neighborhood networks. The effectiveness of democracy is linked to how connected we are to social networks, and to one another.

Whether we are gathered together at Park Hill Euchre Club, Northeast Park Hill Coalition meetings, Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. meetings, Park Hill Neighbors for Equity in Education events or celebrating the Park Hill Art Club, community engagement is the ultimate payoff. It’s one of the reasons the network of Denver public libraries has community rooms available to use for free, eliminating a barrier to gathering together.

In The Art of Gathering, author Priya Parker observes the following:

“Gathering — the conscious bringing together of people for a reason — shapes the way we think, feel, and make sense of our world... In democracies, the freedom to assemble is one of the foundational rights granted to every individual. In countries descending into authoritarianism, one of the first things to go is the right to assemble. Why? Because of what can happen when people come together, exchange information, inspire one another, test out new ways

of being together.”

Our potential and capacity increase as we gather. Gathering is a radical act that weaves together the invisible threads of what makes a society and democracy thrive.

Participating with others in your community, in any form, strengthens communities and neighborhoods. It strengthens ourselves. As noted in Bowling Alone, joining and participating in one group cuts your odds of dying next year in half. We need one another.

In the new year, consider joining something, anything! Whether it is a bowling league, book club, tennis club, ultimate frisbee league, homebrew club, or volunteering at the Park Hill Food Pantry with a group of friends, these investments of time and presence craft the community we imagine is possible. If what you want to do doesn’t exist yet, let’s get it started.

In the 2023 Netflix documentary Join or Die, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy says, “This is our opportunity to move from a social recession to a social revival. And that has to be powered by individuals who fundamentally decide that they want to invest their time, attention, and energy in their relationships.”

In 2025, connect with a neighbor, invite someone over to dinner, attend an event at the library, take a small step to craft the future — one of relationships that strengthen our community and enrich our lives. Consider the block you live on as the first step in understanding the wide and wonderful world of Denver’s legacy and social health.

January Library Events

Pauline Robinson Branch

While the Pauline Robinson Branch library was undergoing renovations, limited library services were offered at Hiawatha Davis Jr. Recreation Center at 33rd and Holly Street. Those services are now discontinued, and the renovated library is set to reopen in Holly Square in early 2025. Check for updates — including reopening dates and celebrations — at denlib.org/robinson and

on the Pauline Robinson branch Facebook page.

Park Hill Branch

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

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

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

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

Qi Gong | Wednesday Jan. 8, 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.

Kids’ Games Club | Wednesday Jan. 15, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Are you looking for something fun after school? Drop by to play games in a fun, relaxed environment the first and third Wednesday of each month. Ideal for ages 5-12. Make friends, learn to be good losers and winners and have fun. Adults are welcome to stay and play with their children also.

No Strings Attached Book Chat | Saturday Jan. 18, 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.

Fairmount: Denver’s Ultimate Cemetery

With Author Phil Goodstein | Saturday Jan. 18, 2:30-3:30 p.m.

Numerous people linked to Park Hill rest at Fairmount, Denver’s distinguished cemetery. To find out who they were and how they

got there, read Fairmount: Denver’s Ultimate Cemetery by local historian Phil Goodstein. He will discuss and sign copies of his new 520-page book that explores all aspects of the burial grounds that lie southeast of Park Hill, at Alameda and Quebec.

Teen Advisory Board (TAB) | Tuesday Jan. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Anyone 6th-12th grade is welcome to join and help with library programming and resources geared towards teens.

Death Café | Monday Jan. 27, 2-3:30 p.m. Death Café is an international movement that invites people to gather and normalize conversations around death — to make the most of LIFE. This is not a grief support group or counseling session. Respect for all views is a priority.

Dying Like You Mean It | Saturday Feb. 8, 2-3:30 p.m.

What will come to life for you as you consider your death? Existing in the rich in-between of living and dying as Wally Klatch does; he brings awareness and perspective to the dying process and invites deep conversation. Joining Wally is Jamie Sarche for a rich discussion about dying and communicating about what matters most to you while you have the resources. Participation is invited, centering lived experiences, and placing more importance on the questions than the answers.

Greater Park Hill has two public libraries: The Park Hill branch library is at 4705 Montview Blvd. The Pauline Robinson branch library is at 5575 E. 33rd Ave. Visit denverlibrary.org, for other Denver library locations, including in Central Park, Whittier, and other nearby neighborhoods.

Activists hold picket signs during a demonstration in support of the Noel resolution calling for complete equality and integration at Denver Public Schools in this May 16, 1968 photo. Credit: Denver Public Library Special Collections

Blucifer Blazes Across Denver’s Night Sky

Drone Show Lit Up Downtown For 40 Nights This Holiday Season

Story and photo by Reid Neureiter For

the GPHN

Denver’s numerous annual holiday light displays had a new spectacular addition this year – the Mile High Drone Show.

For 40 nights beginning Nov. 22 and continuing through Dec. 31, more than 400 multi-colored drones launched from the sports field at the Auraria Campus, just southwest of downtown, performing 15-minute animated holiday light shows. The drones flashed on and off, changing colors as they glided into different glowing formations nearly 400-feet high and 500-feet wide.

Images included Denver’s iconic big Blue Bear staring into the Convention Center, as well as Blucifer, the wild blue mustang seen while driving to Denver International

Airport. The drones even formed the tent shapes of Denver’s main airport terminal, with the figure of an airliner taking off behind the giant blue horse.

The figures were not just static. The drones were programmed with choreographed movements, giving the appearance that the giant colorful figures were moving through the night sky. One impressive figure was a giant rotating red-bodied pterodactyl wearing a Santa Claus hat, flapping wings, and a beak that opened and closed.

The performances concluded with Santa and his sleigh arcing across the sky, dropping animated presents. The show was sponsored by Visit Denver and presented by the Denver-based company Brightflights Drone Shows.

the future Is Now

Resolutions Should Be Made Every Day Of The Year

By Anya Nitczynski For the GPHN

I’m somebody who makes New Year’s resolutions year ’round. (Some would call my commitment to drinking more water in March or making three new friends in August simply “goal setting.” I say calling these New Year’s resolutions makes it more fun.)

I find the actual day of Jan. 1 surprisingly intimidating. It is the only day where it is encouraged in our culture for one to make an immediate so-called “life change.” Perhaps this is why I’ve chosen to extend the day of resolve beyond its usual 24hour period.

As a member of the class of 2025, this particular new year is probably the furthest I’ve ever thought into the future. I am thoroughly alarmed at the prospect that it is already here regardless of the fact that I have had roughly 17 years to prepare. I am tempted to build an igloo in my backyard, cling to my life as it is, and reject any and all indication that change might be occurring outside the safety of my ice palace force field (igloo).

It is easy to get lost in the Fear Of Four Months From Now (when I’ll turn 18 and receive college application decisions) or linger in the Terror For 10 Months From Now (when I’ll be away from home and responsible for buying my own toothpaste). But it is also easy to find solace in my hopes for the year.

I am not completely allergic to change. I hope my favorite artists release new music. I hope each individual in my class ends up where they are supposed to be. I hope for peace. I hope for smooth transitions of power. I hope for less political polarization and scapegoating on both sides of the political aisle.

There are things I hope stay the same: my humor, the support of my friends and family, the power of art and the way snow absorbs sound. I hope that my little brother continues to do speech and debate and that our democracy is protected. I hope I continue to make New Year’s resolutions in every season.

The beauty of this approach is that my ability to process change and make internal shifts accordingly is not limited to the first day on the calendar. Every day, I can leave my igloo and seek to not only accept change but celebrate it. I can even seek to contribute to it.

It is up to each of us to continue making resolutions to benefit ourselves, others, and the world all 365 days of the year. A change is just a new beginning, after all.

Anya Nitczynski is a senior at Denver School of the Arts. Her column appears regularly in these pages.

Epperson Realtor® 303.886.6606 wolfe-epperson.com

This was the first year for the Mile High Drone Show, displayed above the Auraria Campus downtown. The nightly light shows featured many of Denver’s most-recognized landmarks and characters, including Blucifer, the wild blue mustang sculpture that can also be seen while driving to DIA.

what a Year!

A Snapshot Of The All That Was Done In 2024

By Lori Midson

Executive Director, GPHC, Inc.

2024 worked out well for some and not so rosy for others. Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. (GPHC) continued its longstanding tradition of embracing — and uniting — its community, lifting up those in need and advocating on behalf of our neighborhood.

f rom the Climate Protection Fund to purchase and distribute HEPA air purifiers and replacement filters to approximately 375 low-income residents in Northeast Park Hill.

The work we do to foster, engage and bolster our community is so, so important, but we’re acutely aware that our donors, volunteers and members are the backbone of everything we do. We are profoundly grateful for the enormous amount of good you’ve done for this organization.

Because of your support and generosity, we have much to celebrate. Here is a snapshot of our 2024 highlights and accomplishments.

• Several years ago, our board of directors began the lengthy process of fully electrifying our building. And this year, it happened. GPHC is now completely electrified and solar-powered.

• The Home Tour & Street Fair, our flagship fundraiser, was our most successful in a decade. Home Tour ticket sales increased, as did our sponsorships and vendor participation.

• Our food pantry, which operates every Monday and Wednesday throughout the year, provided meals to more than 7,300 foodinsecure individuals — the largest number in GPHC’s history.

• Combined, our five community food programs — the food pantry, Thanksgiving box giveaway, spring vegetable seed and seedling program, seasonal produce stand and weekend food program — nourished more than 12,000 individuals and families, again shattering records. We distributed a staggering 100,000 pounds of food in 2024, more than any previous year.

• Friends, neighbors, churches, food banks, grocers, farms and businesses donated a record 78,000 pounds of food to stock our pantry shelves, farm stand table and Thanksgiving boxes.

• GPHC received a $50,000 grant

• Helmed by Editor Cara DeGette, the Greater Park Hill News, which GPHC publishes, received 19 prestigious journalism awards for stories, columns, news, features and photos published in 2023.

• Our memberships base increased by 16 percent over 2023.

• We raised $12,300 in Colorado Gives Day donations.

• Volunteers collectively contributed 8,000 hours of service in 2024.

What remarkable gifts!

There’s more to celebrate, but my word count runneth over, as does my gratitude. I hope 2024 brings optimism, peace, spontaneity, happiness and joy into your lives. And thank you for being a part of ours. Happy New Year.

Food Pantry Needs

Food pantry visits have skyrocketed over the last year, and our pantry shelves always need replenishing. If you’re at the grocery store, please consider buying a few items to donate.

• Canned tuna, salmon, chicken, Vienna sausages & Spam

• Cereal and oatmeal

• Canned tomatoes, tomato paste

a nd tomato sauce

• Pasta sauce

• Hearty soups and stews

• Canned ravioli and chili

• Canned refried, kidney and pinto beans

• Canned corn, peas and green beans

• Canned pineapple and Mandarin oranges

• Instant coffee and teabags

• Shelf-stable pasta and rice dishes (Rice-a-Roni, Knorr pasta and rice sides)

• White rice

• Can openers

• Toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrushes, shampoo, razors, shaving cream and body wash)

• Paper towels and toilet paper

We accept unopened and unexpired (please be mindful of expira-

tion dates) food donations between 8:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays and between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Our office is at 2823 Fairfax St. Unopened and unexpired donations can also be dropped off in the bins inside Mayfair Liquors at 14th and Krameria and the Park Hill Library at Montview and Dexter during their normal business hours. Food pantry needs are updated as needed on the GPHC website: greaterparkhill.org/foodprograms/emergency-food-pantry/. We also welcome food drives on our behalf. To set up a food drive, please contact Lori Midson: director@ greaterparkhill.org.

Ann Canavan

Sandra Caron

GPHC Membership

Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. is a membership-based organization whose voice is only as influential as its members. To become a member — or renew your membership — go to greaterparkhill.org/join-us/become-a-member/ or drop off a check (and say hello) at our office. We look forward to serving you as a valued member, listening to your ideas and input and working collaboratively on projects, programs and issues. Thank you to our current members, donors and volunteers for your kindness, in-kind and financial contributions, involvement and dedication. You are deeply appreciated.

Don Lefkowits

Penny Lehmann

Samantha Lehni

Augustana

Lutheran Church

Blessed

Sacrament

Catholic Church

Cake Crumbs

Bakery and Cafe

Ceremony Barber Shop

Cure D’Ars

Catholic Church

Curtis Park Deli

Dahlia Campus

Farms and Gardens

Dank-Colorado

Food Bank of the Rockies

Hardt Family Cyclery

Messiah Community Church

Montview

Community

Preschool

Oneida Street

Neighbors

Palmer Elementary

School

Park Hill Branch

Library

Park Hill United Church of Christ

Park Hill United

Methodist Church

St. Thomas Episcopal Church

Starbucks

Individuals and Families

Karen Adkins

Sylvia Aldena

Alice and Marc Applebaum

John and Mary

Ellen Arthur

Penny AshleyLawrence

Nicole Baker

Kate Baldwin

Wenzel

Amy Barrett

Dede Barry

Cathy Bauchwitz

Howard Belon

Elizabeth Bennett

Estelle and Charles Bennett

Holly Bennett

Christine Bloch

Dennis Boucher

Abby Burton

Jennifer Calderone

Inga Calvin

Bruce and Brenda

Campbell

Phillip and Teresa Campbell

Keith Combs

Nancy Connick and Diane Jankowski

Todd Cooper

Christine Dea

Joel Dice

Erin Donovan

Nicola Dudek

Beth and Robert Duncan

Anna Engeln

Jay Epperson

Lee FisherRosenberg

Brooke and Alex Fleming

Anne and Joe

Frank

Joshua Freedman

Florence Garbini

Mary Gerwin

Bobbi Gillis

Charm Gilmore

Sheree Goecke

Dee Gourd

Deloris Gourd

Princess Gray

Gretchen Groth

Shriram

Gurumoorthy

Lisa Haddox

Heather Haller

Simon Hambidge

Whitney Hamblin

Linda E Hamlin

Amy Harris

Duke Hartman

Nicki Hayes

Trevor Hayes

Natalie Hengel

Jonell Herndon

Mo Hession

Abby Hetterich

Adrienne Hill

Jennifer Hitt

Paula Hoffman

Renee Hopkins

Richard and Ilona Horwitz

Laura Hudgins

Kelly Hudson

Julie Husson

Jody Igo

Thomas Jensen

Julie Ann Jenson

Bill Juraschek

Lynn Kalinauskus and Trevor Williams

Andrew Kingel and Troy Tomsyck

Michael and Wendy Klein

Blair Knicely

Erin Kobler

TJ Kubo

Nina and Mark Kuhl

Jacqueline Lansing

Martha Lassen

Reeves

Troy and Jessica Lerner

Grant and Cory Levinson

Shontel Lewis

Roberta Locke

Lucy Loomis

Mary Jo Lorenz

Natalie and Patrick Love

Tracy Macdermott and Heather Shockey

Margie Maeder

Christina and Dan Manzanares

Gary Martyn

Richard McCanna

Kelly McGovren

Tayo and Marty McGuirk

Babette and Randy McQueen

Lynn Mendell

Chris Merman

Lori Midson

Katherine Miller

Laura Mitchell

Laurel Mohr

Pam Moore

Brenda Morrison

Harriet Mullaney

Charles Nelson

Monica Newman

Chris and Erin Nielson

Susan Niermeyer and John A Brett

Allison Nuanes

Peg Oldham

Zach Overgaard

Patricia Paul

Jessica and Jeff Pearson

Gordon Phair

Francesca Pinto

Betsy and Geoff Post

Kurt Reisser

Barbara and Charles Reyman

Mark & Clare Rhine

Ashley Rice

Jennie Ridgley

Steven and Joan Ringel

Krista Roberts

Jeffrey Roberts

Cathy Rock

Sarah Romer

Robert and Joan Root

Ann Sabbah

Mary Salsich

Shelly Scales

Christine Schaefer

Leo and Kathleen Schettler

Marti Schulte

Elaine Selsberg

Sarah Sexton

Barbara Sharp

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

Ashish Singh

Don Smith

Cheryl Solko

Sarah Speicher

Kait Speth

Matthew and Elizabeth Spohn

Erik Stark

Mary Jo Stark

Mary Jo Starmer

Christopher Stewart

Julie Strawn

Ellen Sullivan

Katherine Swan

Sarah Swanson

Penfield Tate III

Scarlett Thomas

Ann Torgerson

John A Tull

Shaylisa Turner

Piep Van Heuven

Jane Wainwright

Jewel Wegs

Jenna Westbrook

Erin WestmorelandKing

Nikki Wiederaenders

Anastasia Williamson

Judy Wolfe

Kaitlin Wolff

Beth Wright

John Wyszynski

Karen Zollars

Food Pantry

Volunteers

David Addor

Jasmine Brubaker

Zana Brown

Bruce Campbell

Audrey Diamontopoulis

Claudia Fields

Princess Gray

Andy Hartman

Paula Marinelli

Betsy Post

Mark Pressey

Melanie Rich

Carole Robertson

Deb Rosenbaum

Ann Salamy

Heather Selph

Newspaper bundlers

Hank Bootz

Martha Douglas

Maria Flora

Ian MacDonald

Sheila MacDonald

Sheldon Sidney Mikesell

Laurel Mohr

Mike Quigley

Mary Salsich

Shoshi

The Elegant Beetle

The Common Willow Calligrapha, also called the common willow calligrapher beetle, bears its name well. The backs of these beauties have patterns and designs that look like they may have been artistically designed by a calligrapher — no two are alike. This beetle, somewhat larger than a ladybug, was photographed last summer in Park Hill by Mark Silverstein.

In Praise of Pet owners

Cheers To Doing Great Things For Your Pets

By Margot Vahrenwald, DVM, CVJ

For the GPHN

As we start a new year, I want to acknowledge all the good things that owners do with and for their pets.

As veterinarians, we sometimes get caught up in all the things that are not being done for patients by owners. No one is perfect — owner or veterinarian. But, daily, we see owners who not just love their pets. They adore them, see them as family and strive to take the best care they can.

We have a special relationship with our pets. We treasure them, and they give so much unconditional love in a conditional world.

Unconditional spending also is a huge part of our pet ownership in the U.S. The dollars spent by pet owners have markedly increased since 2019. That reflects a continued growth in pet ownership — there are now 89.7 million dogs and 73.8 million cats in U.S. households.

The American Pet Products Association reports that more than $150 billion was spent on pets in 2024, compared to the $95-plus billion spent five years earlier. The 2024 breakdown of pet spending includes $66.9 billion for pet food and treats and $39.1 billion for veterinary care (including prescription medications). Other supplies, supplements, toys and services (including pet insurance, training, grooming, dog walkers, etc.) added up to $44.6 billion.

Reflected in the growth of those giant numbers is the increased cost of pet care in all areas, including veterinary care. In the veterinary industry, we feel both the positives and negatives of post-pandemic economic changes. Prices have increased for everything that we need as pet and business owners.

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.

GPHC world headquarters is 2823 Fairfax St. If you have an issue you’d like to discuss about the neighborhood, reach out to your board representative. Representatives can be contacted via the main office, at 303-388-0918 or info@ greaterparkhill.org.

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

• Board Chair Shane Sutherland

• Treasurer Heather Shockey

• Secretary Bernadette Kelly

• District 1 Kevin Doyle

• District 2 Brenda Morrison

• District 3 Heather Shockey

• District 4 Currently Vacant

• District 5 Bernadette Kelly

• District 6 Currently Vacant

• District 7 Jon Bowman

• District 8 Nam Henderson

• District 9 Currently Vacant

• District 10 Colette Carey

• At Large Bruce Campbell

• At Large Mona Estrada

• At Large Maria Flora

• At Large Tracey MacDermott

• At Large Louis Plachowski lplachowski@gmail.com

• At Large Shane Sutherland

• Blessed Sacrament Betsy Boudreau

• Park Hill UMC Jacqui Shumway

But make sure that you don’t skimp on preventive care, as that is the key that avoids some high-cost emergency care. Remember that your pet needs their veterinary preventive care exams every year until they are seven years old and twice after that, when they become senior pets. And, when someone isn’t feeling good for more than 24 hours, please don’t wait three more days to get them in to see their veterinarian. Here’s a few things you can do to be the best pet owner:

• Take to heart that calories can be controlled and that a pet will be healthier with a little weight loss to reduce health care issues and preserve longevity.

• Brushing teeth or starting any daily home dental care keeps pets’ teeth and mouth healthier. They’ll have fresher breath and be able to have longer time between professional veterinary dental cleanings.

• Training and behavior modification: Obedience training and good socialization keep our pups in homes and out of shelters. Training might even lead to discovering that your pup has amazing skills at nose work, agility or fly ball. Let’s decrease the number of dogs euthanized annually due to misbehavior.

• Purchasing pet health insurance for young cats and dogs to maximize pet health care dollars and allow for a cushion for unexpected emergencies.

Dr. Margot Vahrenwald is the owner of Park Hill Veterinary Medical Center at 2255 Oneida St. For more information, visit www.parkhillvet.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.

g a rdens a n d Verses

January tips

In the rush of early morning, When the red burns through the gray, And the wintry world lies waiting For the

—Louisa May Alcott, 1876

The 2024 Park Hill Garden Walk is set for Sunday, June 8. As you wait, here are some seasonal tips for you and your garden:

• Recycle/compost your Christmas tree and greens. Save wreath forms to make your own next year, or give to those who will use them.

• Brush heavy snow off shrubs a nd conifers to protect them from limb breakage.

• Late in the month, prune evergreen shrubs (yew, holly, and boxwoods) and evergreen trees (spruce, fir) when they are still dormant and before new growth begins.

• If soil is workable and dry, then deep water when the daytime temperature will remain above 45 degrees for several hours. Water slowly so that it soaks 8–12 inches into the soil.

• Plan your garden and shop for new seeds and plants.

• Repot houseplants that have outgrown their pots.

• Continue to fill your bird feeders. The birds need nourishment to get through the winter. Consider a heater for your birdbath.

Illustration: Berberis repens in winter, by Micki Amick

• Colorado Native Plant Society

• CSU Extension (Extension. colostate.edu)

• High Plains Environmental

Center

• Denver Botanic Gardens

Sources for purchasing native plants and seeds:

• Harlequin Gardens, Boulder

• High Country Gardens

• Prairie Moon Nursery, Winona, MN (prairiemoon.com)

• High Plains Environmental

Center

• Colorado Native Plant Society seed swaps

Monthly garden tips are submitted by Park Hill Garden Walk organizer Kate Blanas. The annual Garden Walk includes tours of some of the neighborhood’s most interesting and beautiful gardens and is a fundraiser for Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. To volunteer or suggest local gardens or artists for upcoming garden walks, contact Patty Mead at prmead416@gmail.com or Carla Finch at carla.j.finch@gmail. com.

g r ea T e r p a rk hI ll r e sources

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 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 arts-based 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 720-913-1000. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.

Denver Public Schools

dpsk12.org

Check the website for resources and updates. Call the helpline at 720-423-3054 for support in many languages.

Donations Resources

mation about their current state of operations.

Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. 2823 Fairfax St., greaterparkhill. org, 303-388-0918

GPHC community meetings are conducted on the first Thursday of the month, except for December and July. The next meeting is Thursday, Jan. 2 at 6:30 p.m. at 2823 Fairfax St. The February meeting is Thursday, Feb. 6. Check greaterparkhill.org/ join-us/community-meetings/ for info on how to participate.

Libraries

denverlibrary.org

See the “At the Library” feature on page 18 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, 303-595-3456.

Free Zoom Tai Chi

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

Free Beginner Tai Chi Zoom Classes every Friday at 9 a.m. Longtime Park Hillers Jacqui and Joe lead the class. Call their clinic at 303-744766 or register online at TaiChiDenver.com.

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.

the 15th of the month, for the following month’s issue.

gphn c l ass I f I eds

CLEANING SERVICES

Lilly Maid Cleaning Service. Experienced, detail-oriented cleaner. Weekly, bi-weekly, or move-out. Free estimates. 720-296-9905

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

26 YR Licensed General Contractor in South Park Hill and Lead-Based Paint Abatement Firm. All Phases of Remodeling. Small jobs OK! Mold and Mildew Remediation. Power Spray Denver Dust, Off Exteriors. Call Mark-303-9213161. pikerprojects@gmail.com – All 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

MASONRY SERVICES

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

Mason – Brick, stone, chimney repair, historic renovation. Your Park Hill Expert. Fully Insured, free estimates. Call Ben @720-670-0874.

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 SERVICES

Affordable ski and snowboard waxing and tuning. Providing pickup and delivery to your residence. Please visit website for details: www.centralparkskiboardtuning.com

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

Complete wood window restoration. Custom wood storm windows and screens. General painting, restoration and handyman services for your charming old home. Contact Matt 479871-8140

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 - 720550-2786

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

five Pounds A Day

Check Out The New Denver Reuse Business Directory

By Mark Kuhl

For the GPHN Denvergov.org houses a new online directory to help community members discover businesses where they can repair, rent, or purchase used items. Considering the average American generates almost five pounds of trash every day, you may be surprised at how many businesses engage in practices that reduce trash. Thrift stores and used book stores quickly come to mind, but there are many more — including antique shops, used sporting equipment stores, tool rental businesses, repair shops. Check out the directory at tinyurl. com/DenReuseDirectory for a reminder (and a catalogue) of all the ways local businesses can help you reduce waste.

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/.