Greater Park Hill News February 2023

Will The Next Mayor Please Speak Up?

We Asked Questions; Here’s What The Candidates Said

Compiled by Cara DeGette

Editor, GPHN

Denver has officially entered the silly season. Everyone, it seems, wants to be the mayor or a member of council.

The number of mayoral candidates on the April 4 ballot has leveled off at 17, including two current Colorado legislators and women and men from a veritable rainbow of backgrounds.

Denver votes

Along with a new mayor, the makeup of the 13-member Denver City Council is set to also change dramatically. Nine people are running for two open AtLarge council seats to represent the entire city. Because of redistricting, Park Hill will now be represented by two council members — District 8 and District 9. Last month, we asked candidates in those races to provide us with highlights of what’s on their minds. We put a particular emphasis on the Park Hill Golf Course, as the future of the property is undoubtedly one of the driving issues in this year’s municipal election.

This month, we turned our focus to 10 candidates running for mayor, plus seven of nine who are running At-Large (two did not respond to multiple inquiries). Responses are on pages 6-9 and 14-15.

A Stream Will Run Through It

Historic City Ditch Will Feed Nature Play Project In City Park

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

Thanks to the oldest surviving relic of Denver’s pioneer days, City Park’s new Nature Play will be built with a replica of a mountain stream running through it. After five years of planning and extensive outreach to residents, the $7.9 million City Park Nature Play project broke ground in late January. Just south of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science in City Park, it

is scheduled to be completed late next year.

Denver taxpayers will pay half the total cost for the Nature Play via the 2018 voterapproved bond for new park projects; the museum is paying for the other half via ongoing fundraising efforts.

When it’s finished, the natural area will include pathways with overhead shade from the mature canopy of existing trees. A playground will include swingsets, slides and structures to climb on, with a 20-foot tall Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep sculp-

ture. Additional play features will be in the shapes of other wild animals common to Colorado. Native plants will support bees and other pollinators, and 52 new trees will be planted.

Central to the entire project is the restoration of the historic waterway that used to flow through the southeast part of City Park — part of Denver’s historic City Ditch. City Ditch, which was completed in 1867, has been described as the “oldest working continued on page 4

Where do the candidates stand on the Park Hill Golf Course land?

Mayoral Candidates

Does not support lifting the conservation easement for development:

Lisa Calderón, Terrance Roberts, Ean Tafoya

Supports lifting the conservation easement for development: Chris Hansen, Andy Rougeot

Won’t Say: Kelly Brough, Leslie Herod, Mike Johnston, Debbie Ortega, Trinidad Rodriguez

At-Large Council Candidates

Does not support lifting the conservation easement for development: Sarah Parady, Penfield Tate

Supports lifting the conservation easement for development:

Will Chan, Will Hoffman, Marty Zimmerman

Won’t Say: Travis Leiker, Jeff Walker

Did Not Respond: Dominic Diaz, Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez

(Complete answers to this and other questions are on pages 6-9 and 14-15.)

Artist rendering courtesy of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

Yeehaw! Calf-roping at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Rodeo at the National Western Stock Show on Jan. 16. Check out page 16 for the story and more photos from the rodeo.

Photo by Reid Neureiter

2206

our Savvy Readers

Support Local Journalism, And Watch Out For Sharks

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

First things first.

Thanks to everyone who opened their wallets to give us some extra holiday cheer.

Last year the Greater Park Hill News was selected as one of 33 Colorado news organizations to participate in a matching ad grant campaign. The exercise was designed to raise awareness for the critical need for local news, as well as funds to help pay for community news.

In all, 88 supporters donated a total so far of $7,050 (and counting!) to us as part of the December campaign — called #newsCOneeds.

To keep it fun, we set up several levels of giving: $10 at the Newshound level, $50 to be a Gatekeeper, $100 for a High-Level Source, and $500 for Champions of the Fourth Estate. Really, any amount was appreciated — as were the messages of support and enthusiasm that accompanied several of the donations.

limited access to local news. More than one-fifth of Americans now live in news deserts — places with very limited access to understanding what is happening in their backyards. Of the surviving local media, many have had to make major cuts to staff. That is certainly true in Denver, where the surviving daily newspaper casts a faint shadow on its once-robust coverage.

So what happens when local news sources dry up and go away? Some people either fill their personal news void with national sources or turn to social media — or tune out altogether.

For every working journalist, there are now more than six public relations people, paid to spin the message.

The Greater Park Hill News, with its tiny staff of part-timers and volunteer contributors, doesn’t pretend to be anyone’s complete news source. But we are proud to provide a quality helping every month. That said, it’s never been more important for savvy news consumers to seek out a variety of legitimate news sources. It’s also critical to learn to filter out the bull.

“Love the Greater Park Hill News!”

“Thanks for the great work that you do.”

“Keep up the good work!!!

“GPHN is the best neighborhood newspaper there is!”

“Thank you for helping make our neighborhood a great place to live!”

Since we crossed the $5,000 mark for donations (and then some), we received a $5,000 matching grant from the Colorado Media Project. The money goes toward our general operating funds. And it helps to augment the support from our awesome and dedicated newspaper advertisers who sustain us month in and month out — as they have for 63 years.

We live in an age when community news is, sadly, a commodity. Over the past 20 years, many local and community newspapers have fallen victim to a combination of deadly realities, including the rise of the internet and subsequent competition for advertising dollars, and the rising costs of newsprint.

Last June, the New York Times provided a bleak update on the state of local news in the United States. Since 2005, an average of two newspapers every week have gone out of business, mainly victim to a decline in advertising dollars. Just since the pandemic, more than 360 newspapers have folded.

When newspapers close, people have

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

Advertising information: Melissa Davis: ads@greaterparkhill.org

Denise Fisher: sales_denise@greaterparkhill.org

Deadline for submissions is the 15th of every month

Which brings us to the spin.

While journalism is hurting, the business of public relations has never been more robust. For every working journalist, there are now more than six public relations people who are paid to spin the news to a sometimes unsuspecting public. As they say, consumers beware.

At their best, PR people are pros. They are committed to ethically promoting the product or client they are paid to represent.

Unfortunately there are other types of sharks in our waters — hucksters and hacks who are more interested in bloody attacks. And who pays for those messengers? Naturally, it’s the deep pockets who have the cash to do so, and who sometimes hide behind dark money.

The current campaign season is no better time for people to remember the difference between journalism, public relations, and flat-out lies. If you want to see the campaign messaging in full play, take a look at the mailers that arrive in your mailboxes from now to Election Day, April 4. Make a game of figuring out which claims are legitimate — and which are trailers full of horsepoop. Better yet, make it a point of reading (and watching and listening to) as much legitimate local election coverage as possible. Democracy is worth it. With that in mind, see you next month.

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

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

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

This newspaper is made possible through the support of our advertisers and members. If you are not already a member, please consider joining the Greater Park Hill Community, Inc.

B I rdland | Mark Silverstein

Little Wanderer

The Tennessee Warbler is clever enough to winter in Costa Rica. Come spring, this dainty, thinbilled species flies north, where it breeds in the boreal forest of Canada. Its name suggests that the bird comes from a certain southern state. Actually, the Tennessee Warbler’s vast U.S. migratory range stretches from Texas north though Colorado, Wyoming and Montana, and eastward all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. The species was given its name by the celebrated ornithologist Alexander Wilson based on a bird he encountered in — you guessed it — Tennessee. Photo by Mark Silverstein

thing in Denver.” The Ditch, 4-feet deep by 6-feet wide, was dug to divert water from the South Platte River near Littleton. It stretches for 26 miles north and east, through Englewood, and what is now Washington Park, the Country Club and City Park. An engineering feat in its time, the Denver Ditch brought water to what was then treeless, bare prairie, providing irrigation to allow trees and gardens and crops to grow, allowing the city to grow up as a verdant Queen City of the Plains.

The Denver Ditch is still visible in Littleton and Englewood, and it flows through Washington Park and feeds Smith Lake there. The rest of the Ditch is now buried and flows through pipes. When the water ultimately reaches City Park, it empties into Ferril Lake — the larger of the lakes in the park.

In the early part of the 20th century, the original Denver Botanic Gardens was in City Park, in the spot where the new Nature Play area is being built. Designed by famous Denver landscaper and city planner Saco DeBoer, the flow of water through the gardens was called the DeBoer Waterway. In the 1950s the Botanic Gardens was moved to its current site at York Street next to Cheesman Park.

The Denver Ditch continues to feed Ferril Lake in City Park, but the DeBoer Waterway was shut off around 2010, after it fell into disrepair. As part of the new City Park Nature Play project, the DeBoer segment will be repaired, feeding what will become the new urban creek.

Jacqueline Altreuder, the director of volunteer engagement for the museum, presented an update and overview of the

project to enthusiastic feedback during the January meeting of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc.

Over the past five years, Altreuder said, project organizers surveyed and sought feedback from thousands of residents. Children, as well as grown-ups, were encouraged to submit their ideas for the kind of project they wanted. The response was overwhelming, she said. People wanted a play area that was authentic and natural. They wanted shade. They wanted it to be welcoming to all ages, where people could come and sit and perhaps read, and savor being outside. Nearly 98 percent of the people who responded to the surveys said they wanted water flowing through it.

“What we kept hearing is people wanted a natural play experience, and wanted the old waterway restored,” she said.

And so, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, in conjunction with the Denver Parks and Recreation department, proceeded with a project that is envisioned as a classically Colorado setting — think the mountains come to the city, with pathways, a creek, and plenty of shade trees.

“I’m super excited for daylighting the historic waterway,” said GPHC board member Nam Henderson.

Maria Flora, who also serves on the board of the registered neighborhood organization, told Altreuder she appreciated the “genuine community outreach” that went into the planning. Flora complimented organizers for creating a project that truly reflected the public’s desire.

“You specifically listened, especially to the little kids,” she said.

Artist rendering courtesy of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

Dawn of A New era

Looking For A Mayor And Council Who Will Take The Lead On Climate

By Tracey MacDermott For the GPHN

This spring Denver voters will elect a new mayor and a new city council.

This brings a welcome opportunity for Denver voters to weigh candidates’ positions on numerous issues that affect our daily lives. From the future of the Park Hill Golf Course property, to homelessness, air pollution, traffic, litter and quality of life — all share a component related to our changing climate. We need our new city leaders to put forward bold and innovative solutions to the most critical issue of our time.

In what is currently a ridiculously overcrowded field of people running for mayor, as well as city council races, how will these issues hold up? Where do the candidates stand on climate change?

Denver’s air continues to rank as one of the worst in the nation. Last April, the American Lung Association ranked Denver 7th worst in the United States for ozone. We need a thoughtful and serious debate on this issue. We also need real solutions, and we need them now.

Way back in May of 1979, the New York Times reported that pollution was a key issue in that year’s Denver primary. Then-Mayor Bill McNichols’s opponent was pushing back on the city’s laissez faire approach regarding the second worst air pollution in the nation. The challenger — who ultimately lost — had an agenda that proposed more bike lanes and an improved mass transit system for Denver. Nearly 44 years have passed, and we are still talking about making these improvements.

Other hot issues that year included booming construction and a depleting water supply. Sound familiar?

Salt and trees don’t mix

In late December we were hit with a much-needed dose of snow. That helped in our drought. However, we were left with snow packed roads and sidewalks, which made getting our way around the city treacherous and dangerous for weeks afterward. Many of us resorted to using salt on our walkways. Meanwhile, Denver and the state transportation department uses liquid deicer to mitigate our slick roads. Although the deicer has a lower environmental impact than salt, it is not free from contributing to salt pollution — which can damage plants and aquatic life in our waterways.

As reported last year by Colorado Public Radio and others, road salts have been added to the long list of things that kill Colorado trees. A University of Northern Colorado study from 2004 found a strong correlation between tree health and road salt application. Other reports note the death of nearby vegetation in response to how we de-ice our roads. While traffic safety is a huge concern, we need to continue to strive for innovative solutions to minimize harm.

What about the issue of booming construction, which was also hot on the minds of Denverites 44 years ago? Yes, time

marches on, but our issues remain the same. Currently, just 36 percent of the total construction and demolition debris that is generated from tearing down buildings and houses is diverted from the landfill. In 2020 the Denver officials acknowledged that the city “must act with urgency to strengthen its sustainable materials management policies, programs, and infrastructure in order to promote principles and practices of a circular economy.”

That was three years ago.

Buildings and homes are still coming down all over this city. The time for a strong and comprehensive deconstruction bill — requiring recycling and reusing materials rather than allowing it to be hauled to the landfill — is right now.

Make Denver beautiful again

We live in the Rocky Mountain West, and a love for the outdoors and recreational activities are a huge reason why so many of us are here. That means that yes, we need a comprehensive mass transit system that prioritizes electric buses and convenience.

However, the reality is, we still need cars. As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, we need to implement EV car-share programs and invest in charging stations throughout the city. Low-income neighbors must be prioritized when we build infrastructure and programs.

In 2020 the city issued a sustainable resource management plan that was designed to facilitate “beautifying the city’s streets, parks, and neighborhoods, and protecting sewers and waterways by eliminating litter.” Is the plan working? Well, we are all witness to a growing trash problem on our streets. So I would say no. We need to demand that candidates who are asking for our votes address this. What are their ideas to beautify our city?

As Denver continues to grow, we need to prioritize park space. A golden oppor tunity is in our back yard, at the Park Hill Golf Course property. Every single candi date needs to clearly tell the public where they stand. Do they support protecting that land, or lifting the conservation easement and allowing a developer to proceed with the bulldozers? Ask them and insist they are clear about their position.

It is time to put Denver on the fast track of leading on climate. This month and next, show up to candidate forums, ask hard questions and be persistent that they are answered. We need to know who will have bold climate solutions and support Mother Earth over private profit.

Finally, on April 4, make sure you vote. The future of our city depends on it.

is currently the Statewide Co-Chair of the Climate Reality Project for the 100% Committed Campaign.

hard To Recycle?

The Alliance Center Station Reopens To The Public

It was closed during the pandemic, but The Alliance Center and its station that accepts hard-to-recycle items has re-opened. The Alliance Center is downtown at 1536 Wynkoop St. and its recycle station is open to the general public between 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Here is a snapshot of some unique items they collect: writing utensils, ink cartridges, pet food and treat bags, foil-lined bags and wrappers, hygiene and beauty product containers, water filters, and more. A comprehensive list of the materials they

accept is at thealliancecenter.org. Financial contributions are strongly encouraged as they have to pay to send these items to re cyclers.

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/.

Denver At A Crossroads

On April 4, Voters Will Elect A New Mayor. Which Direction Will The City Go?

Compiled by Cara DeGette Editor, GPHN

On April 4, Denver voters will pick a new mayor for the first time in 12 years. Michael B. Hancock is term-limited from office, opening up city hall for new leadership — and, depending on who wins the election the potential for the city to head in a new direction.

Denver votes

Denver’s strong-mayor form of government means whoever holds the position wields a tremendous amount of power. The job comes with a current salary of $188,429, and loosely includes everything from setting the priorities and tone for Planning and Zoning to Parks and Recreation. The job also entails making sure the trash is picked up (or not) and the roads are plowed (or not).

Kelly Brough kellybrough.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

Our people and our optimism.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held (feel free to include elected and appointed positions).

• Chief Strategy Officer for MSU-Denver2021-2022

• Chief of Staff to Mayor Hickenlooper2006-2009

• Deputy Chief of Staff to Mayor Hickenlooper - 2005-2006

• Director Career Service Authority for Denver - 2003-2005

• Legislative Analyst for the Denver City Council - 1990-1997

• On-Call Snow Plow Driver at Stapleton International Airport - 1989-1992

• Personnel Analyst for the City and County of Denver - 19891990

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor.

1. Homelessness: My administration will end unsanctioned camping in my first year in office. We will work with cities and counties to better utilize data to make the smart decision about where to invest resources to house and shelter people and focusing on prevention.

2. I mprove public safety: I will ensure we are sending the

Trinidad Rodriguez trinidad4denver.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

A place of powerful energy.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

• Denver Housing Authority Board of Commissioners

• C olorado Governor’s Revenue Estimating Advisory Committee

• Blueprint Denver Task Force

• Denver Housing Advisory Committee

• Denver International Airport advisory committee

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor.

1. Public safety enhancements.

2. Implement my proposed homeless plan.

3. Improved affordability.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

Permitting delays.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

There are three facts that are of principal concern to me about the current state of the Park Hill Golf Course.

The mayor appoints 25 department heads that oversee parks and recreation, community planning, the airport, police, fire and public safety, as well as transportation, human services, economic development and a multitude of other services.

As the leader of the city, the mayor sets the priorities and aspirations for the Mile High City. Needless to say, it’s a full-time job.

The number of candidates who want to take a shot at running the city climbed to 26 in January. As of press time 17 had made the ballot.

We asked the following 10 candidates to provide us with highlights of what’s on their minds as their campaigns start to heat up. (We’ll follow up with any additional candidates who successfully make the ballot in next month’s issue.)

Here’s what they had to say.

right resources (mental health professionals and addiction experts) at the right time and free our officers up to respond to those issues where we critically need them. And, we will address the drivers of crime to improve safety throughout Denver.

3. Housing: My administration will build for-sale housing on city-owned property, incentivize transitioning the growing vacant office space to residential units and ensure the development review process is more efficient and effective.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

A lack of timely and open communication.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I have met with more than a dozen stakeholders on this issue and there’s strong agreement on three things: We need more park land and open space; We need more housing that is affordable; The process was flawed. The future of this property, in the heart of one of Denver’s great neighborhoods, should have been a great opportunity to bring people together to build a common vision for the future. Given the law, I think a court must make final determination about the fate of the conservation easement and believe we should get that answer.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

Unsure at this time.

• It is not currently being used for a productive activity.

• It can only be used as a golf course without the concurrence of the developer.

• There is no other imminently actionable proposal.

At its Jan. 23 meeting, Denver city council is considering the approval of a development agreement to which the developer would be bound requiring it to, among other things: Convey approximately 100 acres to the city to be a park; Create a mixed use neighborhood with mixed-income housing nearest to Colorado Boulevard with its proposed affordable housing mix; and Create infrastructure and community based including streets and recreational trails. I would require the development agreement additionally include: Satisfactory amounts of additional community serving assets; A satisfactory plan and sufficient funding to mitigate impacts (such as noise and traffic) on surrounding neighborhoods by the developer, community and/or metropolitan districts; and a restriction that precludes the use of state and local subsidies and grants in the production of the required affordable housing.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

Pending the execution of the development agreement subject to my requirements in the previous question, I would vote in favor. If this standard is not met, I would require additional information before deciding how to vote.

Lisa Calderón

lisafordenver.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

We are culturally diverse visionaries.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held (feel free to include elected and appointed positions).

My entire 30-plus year career has been spent working in service of community as a college professor, women’s victim services director, jail services director, juvenile justice commissioner, crime prevention commissioner, parks board member, police reform advisor, subject matter expert on racial, gender, mass incarceration and homelessness issues, board member for agencies serving people with addictions and mental health issues.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor.

Housing/homelessness, affordability, and community safety. As mayor, I will use both data and feedback from community members to ensure we are addressing root causes with proven solutions. I reject the false choices that have dominated Denver’s politics over the past 12 years. Residents have been forced to choose between affordable housing or green spaces; police expansion or racial justice; small businesses or workers. Instead, we can reimagine Denver where everyone thrives.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

Our “strong mayor” system is a legacy from the Klan’s takeover of city government in the mid-1920s. Denver became a city in which deal-making and special interests are prioritized over the needs of workers, residents, and small business owners. This system widened racial and wealth inequality, and hastened displacement of marginalized communities. I’m running for mayor to build a transparent city government that shares power by decentralizing city hall, and moving representation into neighborhoods.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

A city housing plan shouldn’t be driven by corporate developers making backroom deals with compromised politicians. A public park system belongs to all Denverites. The choice between open space and housing was always a false one. We can have both, but not by sacrificing one for the other.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

No. I am deeply concerned about the climate crisis and the lack of green spaces. As stated above, I would work to preserve and expand open space, and work with affordable housing developers to convert brown and grey space into attainable housing.

Kelly Brough

Trinidad Rodriguez

Deborah “Debbie” Ortega

debbieortega.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

Our neighborhoods and our people.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held (feel free to include elected and appointed positions).

District Councilwoman, Councilwoman At-Large, Board President of Del Norte, and Executive Director of Denver Commission on Homelessness.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor.

• Public Safety

• Homelessness

• A ffordable Housing

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

There is a historic sum of money in the city’s coffers dedicated towards homelessness and affordable housing yet these issues have never been more prominent in our city. Our communities and those experiencing homelessness deserve immediate and lasting results. This starts with declaring homelessness a public emergency within 100 days of taking office, which will strategically mobilize resources from local, state, and federal organizations towards these issues. With so many silos existing between relevant departments and city hall, I will bring improved coordination to tackle these issues head on.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf

Course property?

As an elected council member, I sit in a quasi judicial role when we have to vote on zoning matters, which this project includes. I cannot take a position prior to a vote. I will make my decision at the public hearing on Jan. 23, which is what the quasi judicial role requires.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I voted to move the area plan forward so that the city council could have a public hearing on the entirety of the project, where we can hear from the community that represents both sides of this issue. Because the conservation easement and the zoning are so intricately tied together, I will make a decision on Jan. 23 at the final public hearing and vote.

Terrance Roberts TerranceRobertsforMayor.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

History, Community, Arts, Culture, Resiliency.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

Original member of Denver’s African American Commission. Ex member of Colorado Community Corrections Board.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor.

1. Creating more housing availability and small business retention and support through creating a Public Banking System.

2. Working with law enforcement to lower youth-related homicides and domestic violence homicides and assaults which are plaguing our city, and other agencies to ensure basic city functions are being managed properly.

3. Ensure the very best and deserving people are appointed to agencies and departments so we can begin to govern our city.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

This current administration suffers severely from cronyism, and a lack of concern or desire for true leadership. This is reflected in our housing policy and their willingness to allow developers to totally develop any piece of land available, even at the community’s expense.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

As a candidate who was born and raised in Park Hill, it hurts to see what

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has happened to the community. My grandmother and family owned A&A Fish Market on the northeast corner of 28th and Fairfax for 40 years. Seeing the east side of 28th and Fairfax developed how it is is sobering and is a telltale sign of what’s to come. Westside Investment Partners wanting to develop 2800/3200 units on our last plot of open green space is just greedy and self serving, especially with a development currently going up on 38th and Holly. Northeast Park Hill will be a totally different community if the golf course is developed. The easement has been declared, and paid for. I am totally against what Westside Investment Partners is doing and how they are doing it.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

No I will not vote to end it immediately without a clear plan and support devised by those who actually live in the community. I am in favor of it being more than just a golf course, I am not in favor of housing being developed there.

Deborah “Debbie” Ortega

Terrance Roberts

Leslie Herod leslieformayor.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

Our neighborhoods and their people.  List any previous public service positions that you’ve held (feel free to include elected and appointed positions).

• State Representative HD 8; Joint Budget Committee member, Chair of Appropriations

• Founder & Chair, Caring for Denver Foundation

• Senior Adviser, Governor Bill Ritter

• D eputy Political Director, Barack Obama for President

• Board Member, Urban Peak

• Board Member, Museum of Contemporary Art

• Member, Denver Cultural Affairs Commission

• President, Colorado Black Women for Political Action

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you

Andy Rougeot AndyforDenver.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

The energy, people, and community.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

I am not a politician. However, I am a former US Army officer, who deployed to Afghanistan with the Rangers and a small business owner. Most importantly, I am a husband and a father.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor.

As mayor, I will make Denver safer by adding 400 police officers and eliminating 911 hold times. I will reduce homelessness through the aggressive enforcement of the camping ban to get unsheltered homeless into mental health and drug addiction services. Finally, I’ll increase the affordability of housing for first time home buyers, young families, and blue-collar workers by fixing our broken planning department and eliminating costly regulations that unnecessarily increase the cost of building housing.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

Our mayor and city council are failing in the basics of governing. Our streets are not getting cleaned after snow storms, crime is skyrocketing, and our camping ban is not being enforced. Denver deserves a mayor who will take charge and deliver for Denver on

are elected mayor.

1. Everyone deserves to live in a safe city, and too many people feel unsafe today. As mayor, I will make it a priority to ensure safety for everyone.

2. Ensuring we have affordable housing options for all allows the people who make up a community to have the ability to live here. Together, Denver is ready to tackle affordable housing to ensure that we have a city for everyone.

3. We can do better for our unhoused neighbors, because living on streets and in parks is not dignified and doesn’t represent who Denver is. We will implement real housing solutions and mental health/substance misuse services for those who need them.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

Denver is rapidly changing, and there is a lack of clear leadership and attention needed to solve the issues impacting people’s lives. Denver can and must do better. I’ve spent my career putting results over politics, and I look forward to bringing people together to create real change.

reducing crime, homelessness, and the cost of housing.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I support converting the abandoned Park Hill Golf Course into both housing and a new park as proposed in the Westside plan. It is critical that Denver’s teachers, police officers, and firefighters be able to afford to live in our city, and to make Denver affordable for first-time home buyers and young families we need to build more housing.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I will vote to lift the conservation easement with the goal of making Denver affordable for first-time home buyers, blue collar works, and young families

Chris Hansen chrisfordenvermayor.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

Strong neighborhood character, incredible people.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

Current State Senator representing central and east Denver, previously served as vice-chair of the Joint Budget Committee and State Representative.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected Mayor.

1. Public safety in all neighborhoods.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

The “golf-course-or-nothing” frame does not serve the people of Park Hill. Voters have spoken: they want to keep this as an open space. Proponents of Initiative 301 also recognize that this doesn’t mean it stays a golf course. We must respect the will of voters and start conversations about how the entire community can benefit from this space.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I pride myself on bringing people together to get real results, and I look forward to continued conversations about the next steps. The job of mayor should begin with listening, not telling people how to vote on their public spaces. Residents of Park Hill must be centered in the conversation about the future of their community and my voice should be no greater than any other neighborhood voice.

2. Addressing and alleviating the cycle of homelessness by focusing on mental health services, building additional affordable housing, and making sure folks can access substance use treatment programs when needed.

3. Making Denver the greenest, most sustainable city in the country.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now? We need to improve city services and make sure City Hall is more responsive to citizens with a customer service focus. We must tackle homelessness and the effects of climate change, but never neglect basic city services like plowing our roads well and taking care of our trash and recycling.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

Due to its size, developing the Park Hill Golf Course is an enormous opportunity to provide many overlapping benefits for the community by creating a dynamic place for residents and neighbors to enjoy, which includes amenities like a badly needed grocery store. The plan includes building a mix of affordable housing near transit and the creation of a significant new city park.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

Yes. The current easement restricts the use of the property so that it can only be a golf course. I think it’s time to make adjustments to allow development of usable park and open space and to meet the needs of the community.

Leslie Herod

Andy Rougeot

Chris Hansen

Mike Johnston mikejohnstonformayor.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

Vibrant, diverse, optimistic, innovative, home.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held. State Senator, Northeast Denver, 2009-2017.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor. Homelessness, Affordable housing, Crime.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

Our inability to deliver on a coordinated solution to build and support affordable housing.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I represented Park Hill and North Park Hill for 8 years and had a community office in the Holly for 10 years from 2009-2019. Throughout that time the two most important things I heard from neighbors was a deep desire for a close and convenient grocery store given that currently North Park Hill is a food desert, and the need for affordable housing as too many long time Park Hill residents were getting pushed out of their own neighborhood. We also need to create and expand as much public park and recreation space whenever we can. To protect both of those values, we should seek a long-term proposal that protects open space, and provides opportunity for affordable housing and a grocery store. I believe both things are possible.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I am committed to a solution that gets us a public park, ample open space, affordable housing, a grocery story and a space for youth recreation. I have concerns about the legality of removing a conservation easement, and am concerned about the legal process that will be required to resolve this dispute. As a lawyer myself, I am sitting down with legal experts on both the proponent and opponent sides in the coming weeks to better understand those concerns in order to make a final decision on how I will vote on April 4.

Ean Tafoya tafoyaformayor.com

What is the best thing about Denver in five words or less?

The people, music, breakfast burritos.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

I’ve worked to advance environmental, economic, and racial justice as a community organizer, a teacher, an artist, in three branches of local government. I served on dozens of community boards, including as vice president of the Denver Parks and Recreation Board.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle — in order of priority — if you are elected mayor.

Doing our part in addressing the climate crisis and environmental justice. It is both Denver’s greatest challenge, and our greatest opportunity. To solve our other top two issues: housing and public health and safety, we must have a mayor that can gather regional leadership to tackle these issues together.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

I feel, as many people do, that Denver’s municipal government does not prioritize working class and middle

class people. We need a government that is accessible, transparent, and responsive to the people.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

For years, I followed this conversation as co-chair of the zoning and planning committee for Denver InterNeighborhood Cooperation. I understand both our housing crisis and our need for quality green space, and believe we can have both. I oppose Westside Investment Partners’ plan because there are acres of underutilized lots surrounding this green space, near the light rail, which can be developed into low-income and affordable housing and amenities instead. My vision for the green space is for it to be a public park — hopefully with an urban farm we can use to feed the area, and a tree farm to bolster the canopy citywide.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the city-owned conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

No, as an indigenous person I recognize the need to protect nature, for its own sake as well as our health. We do not need to lift this easement in order to improve the property as a park.

recycling is here

Mike Johnston

Ean Tafoya

Mayor, At-Large Council At Regis University

Feb. 24 Forum To Shine A Spotlight On The Gripping Past Of African Americans In The Rocky Mountain West

Regis University has been selected to host candidate debates for the Denver Mayor and City Council At-Large seats next month at its Northwest Denver Campus, 50thAve./ Regis Blvd. and Lowell Blvd. Candidates who accept resources from the city’s Fair Election Fund are required to attend.

Denver votes

The City Council At-Large candidates will meet at 6:30 p.m., Monday, Feb. 6. Mayoral candidates will debate at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 9.  Both two-hour events will be in the Mountain View Room at Claver Hall, at 52nd Avenue and Lowell Boulevard. Dominic Dezzutti, longtime former host of PBS12’s Colorado Inside Out show, will moderate both debates.

Doors open at 6 p.m. and both events are free and open to the public. Parking in Regis’ Lot 4 outside Claver Hall will be free.

“Regis University is pleased to host these notable community conversations and decisions,” said Jenna Farley, director of community relations at Regis. “We want to help voters meet the candidates and make informed, educated assessments of those who seek to lead our community.”

The Denver Office of the Clerk and Re-

corder manages the Fair Elections Fund (FEF), which voters created in 2018 and provides public matching funds to qualifying candidates for municipal offices. The office selected Regis and KUSA 9News for mayoral debates, and Regis for the At-Large forum.

Regis is working with the following community partners to sponsor these debates: Berkeley Regis United Neighbors Registered Neighborhood Organization (RNO), Chaffee Park RNO, Denver North Star newspaper, Harkness Heights Neighborhood Association RNO, Highlands United Neighbors, Inc. RNO, Jefferson Park RNO, Sunnyside Neighbors, Inc. RNO, West Colfax Association of Neighbors RNO and the West Highland Neighborhood Association.

For more information, visit the event listing on Regis University’s Facebook page, facebook.com/regisuniversity. Submit a question here: www.regis.edu/signature-events/denver-debates.

No information was available for the 9News Mayoral Debate as of press time. Check 9News.com for updates for dates and location.

Denver Indivisibles

Mayoral

Forum March 8

Join Denver Indivisibles for a Mayoral candidate forum in Park Hill on Wednesday, March 8 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. The forum is at Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church, at 1980 Dahlia St. Candidates who have agreed to participating as of press time include Kelly Brough and Michael Johnston, who will talk about their visions for Denver.

The Mayor of Denver sets the city bud-

get, establishes funding priorities for everything from affordable housing to transportation and public safety. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.

The Denver Municipal Election is April 4, and ballots are scheduled to be mailed to all registered voters on March 13. For more info, and to register to vote, go to denver votes.com.

Colorado Black history

Forum To Shine A Spotlight On The Gripping Past Of African Americans In The Rocky Mountain West

By Cara DeGette GPHN Editor

February is a month to highlight and hold up Black history. Pat Moreland, the vice chair of the local powerhouse House District 8 Democrats, is seizing the moment this year to host an event that shines the spotlight on Black culture and Black history in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain West.

During the event, presenters will highlight African Americans who have helped to shape the state and the region, including the gutsy Tuskegee Airmen who fought in World War II, and the Buffalo Soldiers, who comprised the 10th Cavalry Regiment of the US Army beginning in 1866.

This city council district map was adopted in 2022. You can determine the district in which you live at this website: tinyurl.com/DenverDistrictMap

The program also includes a history of Blacks in the Colorado Legislature, and the incredible story of the once-thriving Black Wall Street and the subsequent horrific Tulsa race massacre of 1921. What happened in — and to — Dearfield — a town and farming community in Weld County that was established as a place where Blacks could thrive and be successful. Learn about Lincoln Hills, the only vacation resort west of the Mississippi that catered to African Americans, and where legendary Black entertainers performed — from Ella Fitzgerald to Cab Calloway to Louis Armstrong.

Never heard of Stagecoach Mary, the first African-American female star route mail carrier in the United States? This is your chance. The event features numerous presenters, and also includes music, a sampling of cultural foods and the chance to learn the electric slide.

“My philosophy is, if you don’t know ask,” Moreland says. “If you are uncomfortable asking, let me help educate you. I’m not the be-all, end-all for Black history, but I know of where I came.”

The education fundraiser, which takes place Friday, Feb 24, is also designed to help restock the HD8 coffers for future Get Out The Vote efforts. The event is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Park Hill Golf Course Clubhouse, at 35th and Colorado Boulevard. Tickets range in price, and are available at dpod.org/hd8blackhistory.

A doll that once belonged to a child who lived in Dearfield. The doll is now on display at the Black American West Museum in Denver.

Photo credit: Ellen Jaskol/Rocky Mountain News

Poster advertising Dearfield, an African American farming community 25 miles east of Greeley. Credit the City of Greeley Museums Collection

Members of the Buffalo Soldiers of the Rocky Mountains, Inc. in 2007.

Photo credit: Judy DeHaas/Rocky Mountain News

Studio portrait of Ben Pickett, brother or cousin of the legendary Black cowboy Bill Pickett. Credit Denver Public Library Special Collections

I envision and strive for a Denver we can all call home, no matter our income level or background. My top priorities are affordable, safe, inclusive neighborhoods we can all live in, cleaner air and water for our families and greener spaces we can enjoy.

I envision a Denver with fewer class divides, less crime, and a more intelligently curated infrastructure we can travel, including roads, sidewalks, pathways and highways.

Election date is April 4, 2023

Paid for by Leslie For Council

Keeping The Dream Alive

Celebrating

It was a day to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. on his 94th birthday, and a day to march in the honor of the slain civil rights leader. It was a day to recommit to keep the fight for justice and equality alive, and to remember the fierce urgency of now.

Thousands assembled at the MLK, Jr. statue in City Park west of Park Hill on a brisk Jan. 16 for Denver’s annual MLK, Jr. Marade (march and parade). After the regular political speeches, the crowd marched up Colfax Avenue to Civic Center Park across the street from the state Capitol, for additional festivities.

This being a big election year, it was also a day filled with a multitude of candidates who are currently jostling for Denver mayor and city council seats, along with their supporters. Numerous politicos were seen out in force, carrying banners and marching with supporters and gripping and grinning for the cameras.

The Friday before the Marade, the

Colorado Legislature adopted a resolution to honor MLK, Jr. and his dream for equality, and to honor former former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb and former State Rep. Wilma Webb for their persistence in making MLK, Jr. day an official holiday.

Photos by Cara DeGette

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Howard “Chops” Lournes, one of the founding members of “Harmony with a Beat,” performing in its 21st year on the corner of York Street and Colfax as the Marade passes by. Lournes grew up in Park Hill.

Marade founder Wilma Webb, with Josh Miller.

“Harmony with a Beat,” performs on the corner of York Street and Colfax. Co-founder Jacqui Shumway is at left.

From left, Hugo Hanschen with Rex, Michael and Greta Reynolds.

Roaming The Range

Council At-Large Members Represent All Of Denver

Compiled by Cara DeGette Editor, GPHN

The City of Denver is comprised of 13 members of the city council. These include 11 members from assigned districts, and two members who are designated “AtLarge” — meaning their district is the entire city. The tax-paid salary for all city council members is currently $96,557, and whoever is appointed council president

Penfield Tate tateforcitycouncilatlarge.com

How long have you lived in Denver?

makes another $12,000 on top of that.

The two current At-Large members — Debbie Ortega and Robin Kniech — are term-limited this year and can’t run again (though Ortega is now running for mayor).

Nine candidates are in the running for AtLarge seats.

We asked all nine of them to provide us with highlights of what’s on their minds as their campaigns start to heat up. Note the emphasis on the Park Hill Golf Course, as

I have lived in Denver for over 40 years. I spent just over 3 years in Five Points before moving to Park Hill, where I have resided ever since. List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

• I served as an aide in the office of former Mayor Federico Peña.

• I served in the cabinet of Gov. Roy Romer as the Executive Director of the Department of Administration.

• C olorado State Representative for House District 8 from 1997-2000.

• C olorado State Senator for District 33 from 2021-2023.

• Board Member of the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority.

• Board Member of History Colorado. Identify the top three issues you want to tackle if you are elected to the city council.

1. C ollaborating with the private and nonprofit sectors to create more affordable housing.

2. Partnering with the appropriate partners to address the plight of

Will Hoffman timfordenver.com

How long have you lived in Denver?

I grew up in Metro Denver, leaving to attend college in 2006. After graduating law school in 2016, I moved back to Denver. My wife and I currently live in southeast Denver with our three children.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

I served as a deputy district attorney at the Denver DA’s office for over 5 years. I also worked in the Obama administration at the White House and State Department.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle if you are elected to the city council.

1. A ffordable housing: We need to immediately increase the supply of housing and make it more affordable for those who need it most. To address the scale of the problem, we need both public and private sectors working towards this goal.

2. Public safety: Ensuring the safety of our residents is a top priority. We need to address the root causes of crime, poverty, etc., while also investing in community policing and other strategies that promote trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community.

3. I nfrastructure: In a growing city, we must have a multimodal transit system that is safe and efficient for all Denverites.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

We must better track and report out the uses of taxpayer money on programs and their effectiveness.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

We have a housing shortage in Denver. I believe the currently proposed plan that creates one of the largest green spaces in the city while providing thousands of additional homes is a step in the right direction. I am also cognizant of the concerns of Park Hill residents and those worried about promises being made that they fear will not be kept if the development is allowed to proceed. Were the easement to be lifted, my role on Denver City Council would be to hold to Westside to the promises made throughout the engagement process with the community, with an emphasis on the green spaces and affordable housing units.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property? Yes.

Denver votes

the future of the property will undoubtedly be one of the driving issues in this year’s municipal election.

Seven of the nine submitted the questionnaires. Two of the candidates did not respond to repeated requests to submit responses. Those include Serena GonzalesGutierrez, who is currently a state legislator representing House District 4, and Dominic Diaz, who currently works for the city in the office of children’s affairs.

the unhoused and our community.

3. Improving and reforming public safety to reduce crime and create a more effective police force that reflects the community it serves.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

Its failure to be respectful of and responsive to the needs of Denver’s neighborhoods and communities to preserve the quality of life we have all come to expect. Our quality of life has slipped over the years, and we need to reclaim it.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I strongly oppose the planned development of the site being pushed through the system by the City on behalf of the developer, Westside Investment Partners. Since 1997, the residents of Denver have paid for and have owned a conservation easement that protects the property, and the related development rights it includes. The developer purchased the land knowing it did not include the right to develop the site.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

No. State law is very clear on how a conservation easement can be abolished or amended. The process the City has used, and the ballot question the City is proposing, does not comply with state law and is improper.

Will Chan willchanfordenver.com

How long have you lived in Denver?

Born and raised in West Denver.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

I have been a servant leader my entire career. I have organized in labor unions, led immigrant and refugee programming in Denver Public Libraries, and have worked alongside small business owners and historically under-resourced neighborhoods within various city agencies. Currently I work for Denver Economic Development & Opportunity.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle if you are elected to the city council.

My platform is working to make Denver greener, more affordable, more prosperous, and safer. My top three issues will be to address safety through public service navigators and alternatives to police response, to address affordability by subsidizing childcare, and to address the housing crisis by streamlining the permitting process.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

Some of the most dedicated and hardest-working folks I’ve met in my career are in municipal government. However, the City is hamstrung by bureaucracy, which makes us afraid and/ or unable to take risks and think creatively to effect change.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

Westside’s plan was thoughtfully constructed with input from constituents across the city and in this community. It addresses gaps in food security, provides affordable housing, and creates one of the city’s largest parks. However, it is not perfect. I am particularly concerned about displacement of both families and small businesses. If Denver voters choose to remove the conservation easement and allow the development, I will hold both Westside and the City accountable to keep their promises to Park Hill neighbors.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I will vote in favor of removing the easement because I think the development will provide added value to the neighborhood and the City. Of course, as a member of council I will respect the outcome and work to enact the voters’ will.

Travis Leiker www.travisleiker.com

How long have you lived in Denver?

16 years

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

As an aide to entrepreneur and then-member of the State Board of Education Jared Polis, I worked to invest in education. At Conservation Colorado, I deepened our environmental work in the Latino community. As Senior Director at CU, I created scholarship programs for underrepresented students. I championed, as president of Capitol Hill United Neighborhoods, more affordable housing. I led NARAL Pro-Choice Colorado from near insolvency to stability as its chair.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle if you are elected to the city council.

2023 is the most consequential election in decades. The at-large role is uniquely positioned to build solutions beyond geographic boundaries and lines of difference. Top issues: affordable housing, homelessness, neighborhood safety, and city services.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

We need stability, predictability, and steady leadership. Homelessness is up, 10 neighborhoods account for the most violent crimes, housing is out of reach, and many lack effective services. I am running for council at-large because Denver needs citywide perspective and solutions. I have enhanced stable organizations and saved others from collapse — skills needed to get Denver on track.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I am monitoring the ongoing deliberations and continue to have conversations with stakeholders. The current council made its decision, approving the area plan and referring the measure to Denver voters. Soon, the development agreement(s) will be released and considered by the same council. Whatever voters decide, I remain unequivocally committed to parks and green spaces, affordable housing options, eliminating food deserts, and thoughtful urban planning.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

When elected, I am tasked with implementing the will of voters. If the easement is lifted, I will ensure the developers deliver on their expectations. If not, Denver will likely chart next steps in partnership with the owners. I want to be in the best negotiating position possible — handle discussions strategically, set expectations, and proceed unencumbered by prior “yes/no” answers.

Penfield Tate

Will Hoffman

Will Chan

Marty Zimmerman martyfordenver.com

How long have you lived in Denver?

I was born and raised in Denver. I left after high school and returned with my family in 2005.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

I was the Adult Chair of the Denver Mayor’s Youth Commission in the year that the commission won the “Agents of Change Advocacy Award.” The focus of my service has been with Denver’s many nonprofit organizations who are doing great work in our city.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle if you are elected to the city council.

1. A ffordable Housing: Increasing affordable housing will positively impact Denver’s economy, improve health outcomes, and create housing stability for individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity.

2. Economic Development: Providing new employment opportunities to grow Denver’s workforce and developing programs for people to start new businesses that will enhance our economy.

3. Community Representation: Ensuring that all of Denver’s diverse voices are heard and that policies aren’t made for neighborhoods without genuine community input.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s munici-

Jeff Walker WALKERFORDENVER.COM

How long have you lived in Denver?

Moved to Denver in February 2000 (moved to Glendale from Cincinnati, Ohio in August 1999)

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

• Task Force to Reimagine Policing and Public Safety (2020-present)

• Rosedale/Harvard Gulch Neighborhood Association Board, President (2018-2019)

• Better Denver Transportation and Mobility Subcommittee (2017)

• Blueprint Denver Task Force (2016-2019)

• A merican Public Transportation Association Board of Directors, Finance Committee Leadership APTA Committee, Nominating Committee (2015-2020)

• I-25 & Broadway Station Area Plan Steering Committee (2015)

• Regional Transportation District Board of Directors (20112020)

• Denver Architectural Foundation (2010-2012)

• A merican Planning Association - Colorado Chapter Executive Committee (2008-2010)

• Infrastructure Priority Task Force (2007)

• Saint Anthony Hospital Redevelopment Task Force (2005)

• Denver Planning Board (2004-2010)

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle if you are

pal government right now?

Substandard evaluation measures. We don’t know if the city’s programs and initiatives are successfully solving key problems.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I am in favor of the plan for the following reasons:

1. It will add affordable housing units with preference going to people who were displaced from the neighborhood.

2. A park on land this size along with more green buildings and native grasses will help address climate change.

3. North Park Hill is currently a food desert. This development will include locally owned shops that will support residents’ health and nutrition needs.

4. The land is currently vacant and blighted. The development will ensure that the residents are safe and have a well-lit path to connect to the RTD station without having to walk along Colorado Blvd.

I am confident that Westside’s nonprofit partners including Volunteers of America, Brother’s Redevelopment, and Elevations Land Trust will engage and support the community. On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property? Yes. Without the easement lifted, nothing can happen.

elected to the city council.

1. Improve access to transit through sidewalk construction/improvement on high frequency transit corridors.

2. Eliminate traffic fatalities. Yes, eliminate traffic fatalities. It can be done.

3. Communication between residents/business proprietors and departments. Most of my professional career has involved public involvement for infrastructure projects. The method has been to identify a problem, alternatives to address the problem, and development of a plan to implement the preferred alternative. This approach gives responsibility for creating an alternative to address a problem. It also shows constituents that several alternatives can be viable, rather than a politician posturing that they know the one solution better than the collective.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

The frustration I hear most is the cleanliness of the city in general.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

The voters of Denver decided that termination of the conservation easement and creation of a park on the property should be determined by voters. I support that.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?

I don’t know. I get a new perspective with every conversation.

Sarah Parady www.sarah4denver.com

How long have you lived in Denver?

16 years.

List any previous public service positions that you’ve held.

I have been a legal aid attorney, a federal judicial law clerk, an Americorps VISTA volunteer, the president of several bar associations, and a board member for the Colorado Center on Law and Policy.

Identify the top three issues you want to tackle if you are elected to the city council.

1. Attainable housing for Denverites at all incomes.

2. I nvesting in true public safety through proven interventions.

3. Clean, accessible, equitable transit and decarbonization.

What is your biggest frustration about Denver’s municipal government right now?

I’d love to see a city government that has the political courage and vision to take our biggest challenges head on.

What is your position on the city and Westside Investment Partners’ plan to develop the Park Hill Golf Course property?

The plan does not provide enough truly affordable housing or other public benefit to be worth building on the biggest remaining green space in Denver. We can and should invest in infill housing across the city. We should also lift the “golf course” portion of the easement and invest in building a regional park in Park Hill just as we once did in Wash Park and City Park.

On April 4, will you personally vote to lift the conservation easement on the Park Hill Golf Course property?  No.

Marty Zimmerman

Jeff Walker

Celebrating Black Western heritage

Show

This year’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Rodeo at the National Western Stock Show celebrated the history and heritage of

America’s black cowboys and cowgirls by honoring the legacy of legendary cowboy Bill Pickett and his influence on Black Western Heritage.

The rodeo is the only one of its kind held on MLK, Jr. Day each year and features both African American and Native American cowboys. Events include steer wrestling, ladies breakaway calf-roping, ladies steer un-decorating, tie-down calf roping, mutton busting, barrel racing, and bull riding. All ages were represented, with the Pee-Wee barrel-racing featuring a competitor this year who was only 3 years old.

The rodeo performance began with a presentation honoring Dr. King on a giant overhead screen and the presentation of the tri-color Pan-African (also known as the Afro-American) flag, along with the American and Colorado flags.

The rodeo was part of the larger National Western Stock Show and Rodeo, which draws nearly 700,000 people every year to the national Western Complex north of Park Hill for 16 days of 30 rodeos, 11 horse shows and other attractions.

Story and photos by Reid Neureiter

For the GPHN

MLK, Jr. Rodeo At the National Western Stock

LEADERSHIP YOU CAN TRUST

CA CANDI CDEBACA CDEBACA VOTE VOTE by th

Re-Election!

Candi is a 5th generation Denverite who knows our history, shares our values & has fought tirelessly for our community. She's a social worker, celebrated community leader and policy expert. She leads daily on housing, environmental & economic justice.

Park Hill is new to D9, but not new to Candi. She has always served Park Hill.

DEEP ROOTS. PROVEN LEADER. BOLD VISION.

CANDI'S IMPACT IN JUST FOUR YEARS

As the first elected official from Swansea and the first queer Latina on Denver City Council, Candi has transformed local government by making its inner workings accessible to the public, building community power, re-centering the margins, dismantling oppressive systems, fighting against corruption, and challenging our city agencies to innovate. Some notable highlights include:

Passed Bill 21-0529: Eviction Defense

Right to Counsel

Passed Bill 22-1614: Wage Theft

Penalties

Divested from private prisons & abusive contractors

Bringing 1st community-owned grocery store in 50+ years to food desert

Expanded STAR mental health first responders

Passed air-quality protections at state level with environmental justice coalition

Denver is at a critical juncture. We need leaders we can trust who will put people & the planet at the center of city policy. We need leaders with a vision who will plan for our future with an appreciation for our history & an eye on opportunity & real stability.

Candi understands that all neighborhoods want the same things clean air/water/land, high quality food/shelter/work/resources, a sense of belonging, and decision-making power over the future of their neighborhoods.

HOUSING & NEW ECONOMY HOUSING & NEW ECONOMY

-Housing for all & responsible growth

-Stability in the cost of living

-Worker & tenant protections

-Employee & consumer-owned business

SAFE & HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

SAFE & HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

-Public health approach to safety

-Holding polluters accountable

-Protect & expand green spaces

-Safe streets for people, not just cars

GOVERNMENT FOR THE PEOPLE GOVERNMENT THE PEOPLE

-Community voices first

-Trust people's lived expertise

-Transparency & civic education

- Expand public participation

American Icon

Driven To The Brink Of Extinction, Bison Revival Is A Conservation Success Story

By Reid Neureiter For the GPHN

Want to get up close and personal with the largest land mammal in North America?

Take a tour around the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge’s 11 milelong Wildlife Drive and you might have an eye-to-eye encounter with a 2,000-pound Plains bison bull. But stay in your car, as these beasts are wild animals and can be aggressive. And, they are deceptively fast — able to run 35 miles per hour and jump six feet high.

For safety reasons, visitors to the Refuge’s bison area must remain in their vehicles, and try to keep at least 75 feet away from the animals.

According to Sarah Metzer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife visitor services manager for the Refuge, there are currently 211 bison in the herd. Calving season begins in late March into April. Each year the herd produces between 40 and 50 “red dogs” — as the bison calves are called because of their reddish color just after being born.

Metzer said that the herds are regularly rotated to different pastures across the 15,988-acre (that’s nearly 25 square miles) protected land so that they can get enough forage and to help with the Refuge’s management goals.

Last month, as well as this month, the herd can frequently be seen within the first mile or two after crossing a cattle guard and entering the fenced enclosure on the Wildlife Drive, which begins near the southeast section of the Refuge. The great beasts sometimes meander along, grazing just feet from slow-passing tourist vehicles. Metzer says that while the bison usually ignore cars, signs of agitation include when a bison starts licking its lips, holding its tail straight up, or begins making grunting sounds. Any of these indicators suggest you should move further away.

Bison or buffalo?

“Bison” is the correct scientific term for these massive, prehistoric-looking bovines, but the vernacular “buffalo” is used interchangeably. The word buffalo actually predates the use of bison to describe the animal, as early French trappers called them boeufs, thinking the creatures looked like the old-world Asian or African bovines.

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal bison herd is part of the U.S. Department of Interior’s ongoing efforts to bring back wild bison from the brink of extinction. Prior to European settlement, more than 30 million bison roamed North America from Alaska

Signs of agitation include when the bison starts licking its lips, holding its tail straight up, or begins making grunting sounds.

to Mexico and as far east as Georgia and New York. But, by the late 1800’s, bison were close to being wiped out, with only several hundred remaining in the wild. The only place where wild bison have lived continuously is what is now Yellowstone National Park.

In recognition of the bison’s historic importance, and as a mark of its conservation success story, on May 9, 2016, President Barack Obama named the American bison the national mammal of the United States, joining the Bald Eagle as an official symbol of our country.

Paradoxically, in the 1870’s the United States Army implicitly endorsed the systematic extermination of the American bison as part of the effort to conquer the Plains Indians.

The 2021 Fish and Wildlife publication, “Songs on the Wind, Hooves on the Landscape,” quotes a University of Montana anthropology professor explaining that as long as the Plains bison existed as a food source for Native Americans, the government would have trouble moving the tribes into reservations. So, the U.S. Army facilitated an extensive market for hides and recreational bison hunts, during which millions of bison were slaughtered — as many as 5,000 a day. One Army colonel is reported to have told a wealthy hunter in 1867, “Kill every buffalo you can! Every dead buffalo is an Indian gone.”

Demand for buffalo robes and bison leather, which was used for mechanical belts during the industrial revolution, meant the extermination of the vast herds on which Native Americans relied. It also meant the corresponding end of the freeroaming Plains tribes, as they were effectively starved into submission.

Embracing the old ways

Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages bison herds across six national wildlife refuges, alongside other Department of Interior agencies including the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the National Park Service. It is estimated that 11,000 bison have been brought back to public lands in 12 states. The largest public herd remains in Yellow-

Bull bison at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge welcomes a couple of tourists.

Bison at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.

Wild And Free Rocky Mountain Arsenal An Urban Refuge

The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge is six miles north of Park Hill. In addition to bison, the refuge is home to whitetail and mule deer, raptors (including bald eagles), songbirds, waterfowl, prairie dogs, badgers, coyotes and the endangered black-footed ferret, among other animals.

Entry to the Wildlife Refuge is free. It is open sunrise to sunset, seven days a week (except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day). The Visitor Center hours are Wednesdays through Sundays 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Mondays, Tuesdays, and federal holidays).

The Refuge also offers extensive gravel walking and bicycle paths, but no walking or cycling is permitted in the bison area. For more information see, https://www. fws.gov/refuge/rocky-mountainarsenal

stone National Park, with an approximately 4,800 animals.

In 2020, the Department of the Interior laid out a Bison Conservation Initiative organized around five central goals:

1. The maintenance of wild, healthy bison herds;

2. G enetic conservation and diversity across Department of Interior managed herds;

3. A commitment to shared stewardship of wild bison in cooperation with states, tribes, and other stakeholders;

4. The maintenance of wide-ranging bison herds on appropriate large landscapes where t heir role as ecosystem engineers shape healthy and diverse ecological communities; and

5. A commitment to restore cultural connections to honor and promote the unique status of bison a s an American icon for all people.

Every fall the Rocky Mountain Arsenal conducts a bison gathering (the term “roundup” is no longer used). During the gathering, the animals are moved, using low-stress handling techniques, into corrals. There they undergo health checks, and microchips are implanted in calves. Some of the animals are designated for potential transfer to other public herds around the country, which helps promote genetically diverse herds.

In 2021, consistent with the objective of cultural restoration, excess bison from the Arsenal’s gathering were donated to the Wolakota Buffalo Range, a 28,000-acre native grassland on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. During the ownership transfer ceremony at the Arsenal, Tribal members offered prayer and songs, burned sacred medicine to honor the bison, left gifts in offering to the bison for their safety, and to express gratitude for calling them back to their old ways.

“Hosting the Native gathering at the capture, and sending bison to the Rosebud Sioux Tribe is a step in mending our relationships with Indigenous people and the wildlife we protect in our region,” explained Fish and Wildlife Education Spe-

cialist Tom Wall, in “Songs on the Wind, Hooves on the Landscape.”

A new threat

But last year, there was no transfer of bison among Department of Interior herds or to Native lands. Mycoplasma bovis, a bacterial respiratory pathogen with a mortality rate near 25 percent, is threatening both wild and commercial bison herds across the United States and Canada. It is feared that transfer of bison across state lines or between herds may further spread the disease.

As a result, Metzer said this year’s bison gathering was used to test the Arsenal herd for the illness by swabbing penned animals with a giant nasal Q-tip-like apparatus. The herd ultimately was found to be diseasefree and excess bison were transferred to the University of Wyoming for research purposes. But Arsenal personnel remain vigilant to protect the health of the herd.

     

Bison at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, with the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop.

Stampeding bison enjoying fresh snow that fell in the morning last Oct. 25.

The Frigid North Side

Winter came to Park Hill in January and decided to stay awhile. A couple of good snowfalls, combined with continuing frigid temperatures, created frustrating conditions for many — particularly those with north-facing homes. Property owners diligently shoveled and laid down de-icer, watched the mess melt slightly during the day and then freeze up smooth as an ice rink each night. Many employed shovels and picks and plenty of muscle to break up the ice. Some used buckets to haul the icy, watery mess away. Park Hillian Ryan Hildebrandt is shown in front of his house on 22nd Avenue east of Monaco, wishing the city would invest in some modern drainage in parts of the neighborhood that seem to get forgotten.

Wow! What A Contrast!

Thank you for last month’s Q&A’s with the District 8 and 9 city council candidates. This is an especially important election and all of the information we can get is appreciated. Small local papers like the Greater Park Hill News are increasingly important as the big local paper continues to shrink.

In District 8, I was a little surprised at the “still gathering information” remarks by several candidates to the question of whether they support lifting the conservation easement at Park Hill Golf Course.

At this point, I would hope anyone running for the seat would have been very well informed on what is probably the hottest topic for the neighborhood.

Christian Steward did say he generally supports lifting the conservation easement. Leslie Twarogowski and Tyler Drum were emphatic with their “no’s”.

In District 9, well, wow — what a contrast. Candi CdeBaca gave a simple “no” to the question over whether she will vote to lift the conservation easement.

Kwan Atlas gave a “yes,” while Darrell Watson gave an amazing 121-word response that certainly danced around the subject. Interestingly, though, Mr. Watson mentioned “executing the will of the people.” By this, I am hoping that he meant respecting the bond issue vote where, at the City’s asking, taxpayers overwhelmingly voted to  provide the money to keep the golf course as open space.

Gary Martyn, Park Hill

Editor’s note: The January Q&A interviews with candidates running in Districts 8 and 9 can be read online at greaterparkhill. org/news-and-opinion/off-and-running/. Similar interviews with candidates running for Mayor and At-Large Council seats appear this month on pages 6-9 and 14-15. Denver’s municipal election is April 4.

Blooms Ahead

Last year the City Park Adopt-a-Flowerbed volunteer program kept the beds blooming all summer with a burst of blooming roses in the fall to cap it off. In 2022 — the second year of the program — Adopt-a-Flowerbed expanded to 55 volunteers, who put in a total of 1,877 volunteer hours.

We started the season last year with a greenhouse tour for volunteers, and ended with a celebratory picnic and a luncheon. We pulled weeds and pruned and deadheaded lilacs and roses. We exchanged news and gardening tips, made new friends and rediscovered acquaintances. We worked shoulder-to-shoulder with the City Park horticulturalists, who inspired us with their enthusiasm and expertise. What a joyful way to build community around our love for City Park and its gardens!

Watch for information in the coming months in these pages about plans for the year ahead. We’re always looking for new volunteers, and you can sign up by contacting Maria Flora at mjflora@msn.com. The program is sponsored by the Greater Park Hill Community, City Park Friends and Neighbors and City Park Alliance.

Georgia Garnsey, Maria Flora and Jacqueline June Volunteer Coordinators

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

Photo by Cara DeGette

Colorado Coach of the Year

Denver East Hockey’s Kopperud For The Win Story and photos

by Reid Neureiter

For the GPHN

East High Hockey coach John Kopperud was honored last month by Mile High Sports magazine as Colorado High School Coach of the Year, across all schools, all divisions, and all sports.

The January 2023 edition of the magazine highlighted Kopperud’s seven-year effort to turn the East hockey team (which is made up of players from a number of DPS schools, not just East) into both state and national champions, two titles which the Angels won last year.

A formal announcement of the award honoring Kopperud was made at East’s Jan. 7 game against Fort Collins at Big Bear Ice Arena, which the Angels won in overtime by the score of 1-0. Kopperud told Mile High Sports that the biggest challenge building a championship program was changing the mentality of the East players and turning what had been a more casual program into a competitive one.

“They have so many things pulling them in different directions,” he was quoted saying. “It’s tough getting the kids all on the same page, committed to building a championship program.”

Getting to the pinnacle once is difficult, and it is even harder to do it twice in a row.

“Last year we had all the pieces in place,” Kopperud told the Greater Park Hill News when asked about East Hockey’s chances for a championship repeat. “This year we are not quite there, but are among the top five that have a chance at the title. We still have more work to do.”

As of Jan. 13, East’s record stood at 5-2. The Angels conclude their regular season with a rematch against Championship finalist Valor Christian on Saturday, Feb. 11 and a Wednesday match against Regis Jesuit on Feb. 15.

RequiRements:

• Must be available

East Hockey Coach John Kopperud, top, and above with team co-captains Zeke Romero (No. 4) and Joseph Capra (No. 7) after being honored as Colorado High School Coach of the Year by Mile High Sports magazine at Big Bear Ice Arena.

Dreaming Of Summer

A Guide to Park Hill and Nearby Camps

It’s February, and it feels like we’re been crab-crawling over the ice and snow for two seasons worth of winters. It’s time to start thinking about the long, lazy, days of summer — and the camps that go with them.

Here is a listing of summer camps in and nearby the Park Hill neighborhood. Many camps fill up fast, so make sure to check websites for the latest info.

Special note: Camps with descriptions below denote those organizations who are paid advertisers to the Greater Park Hill News Camp Directory.

Art Garage 6100 E. 23rd Ave. | artgaragedenver.com

Art Students League of Denver 200 Grant St. | asld.org

Athena Project’s Girls Create 2344 E. Iliff Ave. athenaprojectarts.org/summer-camps/

Bladium Kids Camps

2400 Central Park Blvd. camps.BladiumDenver.com

Bluff Lake Nature Center 11255 E. MLK, Jr. Blvd. blufflake.org/camp/

Butterfly Pavilion

Westminster | butterflies.org

Camp Granite Lake Golden campgranitelake.com/rates-dates/

Ceramics in the City 5214 E. Colfax Ave. ceramicsinthecity.com 303-200-0461

Come have fun in the mud this summer! At our kid and teen programs campers will be introduced to clay hand-building, wheel throwing and project glazing. As we enter our 20th summer we are excited to continue spreading the joy of creating in the Park Hill/Mayfair community!

Cheyenne Fencing and Pentathlon 5818 E. Colfax Ave. coloradofencing.com

City of Aurora Summer Camps

Various locations auroragov.org/recreation

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance 119 Park Avenue West cleoparkerdance.org/academy

International Summer Dance Institute (ISDI) - 3 programs, 5 weeks, all levels. STREAM (theatre tech) June 19-23; ages 9-15.

ISDI Global Kids Camp culture & movement, June 19-July 8, ages 3-13. Elite teaching artists in Pre/Pro Intensives July 10-22, ages 9 to adult.

Colorado Rapids Youth Soccer Club Various locations rapidsyouthsoccer.org

Colorado School of Strings 3112 Trenton St. coloradoschoolofstrings.com

Commerce City Parks, Recreation & Golf Commerce City recreation.c3gov.com/home-parksrec

Dance Institute Summer Camp 4601 Quebec St. DanceInstituteDenver.com

Denver Botanic Gardens Camps 1007 York St. catalog.botanicgardens.org

Denver Dumb Friends League Camps Denver | ddfl.org/youth-camps/

Denver Museum of Nature and Science 2001 Colorado Blvd. dmns.org/summercamps.

Denver Parks and Rec Various Locations | denvergov.org

Denver Zoo 2300 Steele St. | denverzoo.org

Four Mile Historic Park Camps 715 S. Forest St. fourmilepark.org/summer-day-camp

Compiled by Cara DeGette Editor, GPHN

Getting up close and personal with a young goat. File photo courtesy of Denver Urban Gardens

Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families

info@heritagecamps.org

Our 9 separate camps held throughout the summer are for families who have adopted children internationally and domestically. These camps give the opportunity for families to interact with a community of other adoptive families, to learn from adoption experts, hear from adult adoptees, and engage with our vast cultural community.

i9 Sports

Various Locations | i9sports.com

International School of Denver

Lowry | isdenver.org/camp

JCC Ranch Camp

ranchcamp.org 303-316-6384

JCC Ranch Camp is a community that inspires campers and families to strengthen their identity, connect with the natural world, and develop life-long friendships. We offer a summer adventure where campers fully engage and live excited for each moment. Campers are encouraged to defy their limits and define themselves.

JCC Camp Shai

jccdenver.org/shai 303-316-6392

Camp Shai is Denver’s premier Jewish Day Camp, serving children grades K – 6. Individuals of all backgrounds are welcome. We offer a variety of engaging and fun activities; from sports, to art, to science, our campers are building their skill sets while enjoying everything that makes camp so special.

JCC Tennis Camp

jccdenver.org/camps 303-316-6380

At Tennis Camp, each day will consist of two hours of court time followed by an hour of swimming. This is an opportunity for focusing on basic and advanced stroke techniques, scoring, using the correct grip on all shots, proper singles and doubles strategies, and match play.

JCC Wolf Theatre Academy

jccdenver.org/wta 303316-6360

One of Denver’s most acclaimed youth theatre programs, offering opportunities to work alongside professional theatre artists and to be part of award-winning productions that are open to everyone. Students will develop acting, singing, and dancing techniques in an intensive rehearsal schedule.

Kathy’s Kamp Summer Enrichment Camp

Northeast Denver familiesforwardrc.org

LYNX National Arts & Media Camps artsandmedia.ucdenver.edu/ prospective-students/lynx-camps

The LYNX National Arts & Media Camps

are summer immersion programs for high school students interested in music and the arts hosted on the University of Colorado Denver campus and sponsored by the College of Arts & Media. These courses are designed to provide an educational preview of college programs.

Mighty Movement Academy

2245 Kearney St. mightymovementacademy.com 720-955-3677

Montessori Children’s House of Denver

Various Locations

mchdenver.org, 303-322-8324

We live for the moments when excited children discover passions that drive them and talents they never knew they had. Our theme-based, two-week camps use hands-on, real-world experiences, guided by highly trained Montessori educators, to give children a chance to explore the world and their own unique gifts.

Neighborhood Music & Theatre at Stanley Marketplace

2501 Dallas St., Aurora neighborhoodmusicstanley.com

School of the Poetic City 2015 Glenarm St. schoolofthepoeticcity.com

Sewall Child Development 940 Fillmore St. | Sewall.org/Summer

SOCCER ELECTRIC “CAMPLIFY”

East High Soccer and Sie Film Center soccerelectric.com

We’re teaming up with Denver Film, Denver East High School and other local partners for the 9th annual CAMPLIFY. Campers play games and develop their soccer skills with experienced soccer coaches and outdoor ART / STEM sessions with expert teachers and closely supervised walks to the Sie Film Center for ageappropriate movies.

SPREE Summer Camp

Various Locations Denver GreenwayFoundation.org/camp

Stanley British Primary 350 Quebec St. | stanleybps. org

Summer in the Parks and Summer Day Camps City of Denver | denvergov.org

The Urban Farm 10200 Smith Rd. theurbanfarm.org/summer-camp-tuf

TOCA Denver at Bladium 2400 Central Park Blvd. bit.ly/3spyBfF

Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Lowry | www.wingsmuseum.org

or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic (Play) – June 5 – 25

Something Rotten (Musical) – July 10 – August 6

JCCDENVER.ORG/WTA

Lynx Camp. File photo

Bugland | Mark Silverstein

Foot Fashion

The family of Leaf-Footed Bugs is quite varied. With the Latin name, Coreidae, the bugs are considered cosmopolitan — not in the sense of jetting off to Monaco for the weekend, but meaning they are found all over the world. In North America they are sometimes called Squash Bugs, and in parts of Africa and Australia they get called Twig-Wilters or Tip-Wilters. Their appearance also varies — some are slender, some are broad and oval. The Leaf-Footed Bug shown here certainly appears to be aptly named. Photo

happy Chomping

February is National Pet Dental Health Month

By Margot Vahrenwald, DVM, CVJ

While I believe that every month should be Pet Dental Health Month, the focus on teeth each February offers an opportunity for education. Here are our primary concerns:

1. Dental disease is preventable, treatable or, at a minimum, correctable. When your mouth is full of diseased teeth, it doesn’t feel good and it doesn’t smell good, but our pets don’t show us very well until something has blown into a big hot mess.

2. Dental health plays a significant role in overall health. Good oral care means that teeth and gums don’t develop heavy tartar and inflammation that leads to bad breath, loosening teeth, pain, and infection.

The very best thing would be if our pets grew thumbs and brushed their teeth at least twice daily and saw the dental hygienist every six to 12 months just like their humans – not going to happen in real life! Next would be that diligent pet parents would brush once daily. In the reality of daily life as professionals and parents and more, that’s not going to happen consistently. That means that over time, tartar builds up, gums become inflamed and bone loss and infection can set in.

What is a pet parent to do?

1. Do your best to brush or use dental wipes to clean your dog’s teeth daily as much as you can. Cats can be conditioned to this as well, but it may take more work to acclimate. Some dogs and cats just are not going to be willing participants.

2. Have your pet’s dental status checked by your veterinarian and discuss if a professional veterinary dental cleaning is due. Your veterinarian can guide you through

the variety of home veterinary dental care options so that you can find what works best for you and your pet if they are not a willing participant in home oral care.

We see some sad-to-miraculous cases every year, where a once-happy pet’s personality has long become mean and bitey. The oral odor keeps the pet at arm’s length from mom and dad and, when evaluated, the mouth is painful with obviously diseased teeth. Once those teeth are addressed — most commonly with removal — the pet’s personality returns to their old cheerful self. Think about how you would feel if there were five or more infected teeth in your mouth.

While we love to fix those cases, honestly we want to prevent them more. And, we want to make sure that owners understand that is safe and effective dental care with professional veterinary dental assessment, cleaning and treatment if needed is the way to go — versus potentially harmful and disease promoting treatments by laypeople without anesthesia.

(A great discussion about professional veterinary dentistry versus anesthesia-free dental care and other information can be found at avdc.org/animal-owner-resources/.)

Remember, the best care for pets is preventive care – including both home oral care and professional veterinary dental care. But don’t ignore the mouth and make sure to take a peek with your veterinarian at every exam to know how your pet is doing.

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

by Mark Silverstein

Into The Abyss

The Good, Bad And Ugly: Realities Of Social Media

By Anya Nitczynski

For the GPHN

You heard it here first! The new fix-all, cure-all, alleviation of pain is a simple thing: delete social media.

aT T he lIB rary

Sparking Curiosity

Pauline Robinson Branch Library Renovations To Include Public Art

By Megan Deffner Public Art Program Administrator, Denver Arts and Venues

Denver Public Art has kicked off a new project at the Pauline Robinson Branch Library as part of the planned renovations happening this year. Because the renovation budget of the library is more than $1 million, the branch will be getting new public art.

As reported in these pages in October, the overall renovations at the Pauline Robinson Library will include an addition to the east side of the building that will include a 600 square-foot community room. Also planned are new public restrooms, two new study rooms, and a teen space. No firm dates have been set for the groundbreaking and construction, but library personnel expect it to begin in the second quarter of the year. Meanwhile, the selection panel for the Public Art that will be installed at the library held its first meeting in November to talk about the goals and themes for the project, including a preferred location for the artwork, and potential media and materials. The emerging themes include the importance of recognizing Pauline Robinson’s contributions to Park Hill and the greater Denver community, artwork that highlights Black culture and its significance to the neighborhood, and artwork that is enriching and educational, sparks curiosity, and is welcoming, accessible and inclusive. The selection panel is comprised of artists, arts professionals, civic leaders and other community members, including:

• 11 voting members.

• Two advisors, including a family member of Pauline Robinson.

• Four community representatives, including Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. board member Shanta Harrison-Sullivan.

• A n artist from the community and an arts professional.

• Members of the design team, including Senior Librarian Leslie Williams.

• One member from the Public Art Committee and one member from the Denver Commission on Cultural Affairs.

• A City Council District 8 representative.

This will be the library’s first commissioned piece under Denver Public Art. Over the next several months, the selection panel will refine and finalize the goals, advertise the call to artists, review applications, and ultimately select an artist from a small group who will be invited to create site-specific proposals. The selection process will take place over the next four to six months, after which the artist will work with the city to fabricate and install the artwork.

Once the Request for Proposals (RFP) is available, it will be available via the library’s website, social media, and on the Denver Arts and Venues website, www.DenverPublicArt.org.

The Public Art Program was established in 1988 as an Executive Order under Mayor Federico Peña. The order, enacted by the Denver City Council in 1991, directs that 1 percent of any capital improvement project over $1 million undertaken by the City be set aside for the inclusion of art.

Over the past 30 years these artworks, along with the historic and donated works of art, make up the City’s Public Art collection. The collection has expanded the opportunity for Denver residents to experience art in public places.

It is an exciting time for Pauline Robinson Branch Library. Stay tuned to learn more!

Greater Park Hill has two public libraries: The Pauline Robinson branch library is at 5575 E. 33rd Ave., and the Park Hill branch library is at 4705 Montview Blvd. For hours of operation and upcoming programs for both neighborhood libraries, visit denverlibrary.org/events/upcoming, and select the facility you are planning to visit.

Actually, you’ve probably heard this rhetoric all over the place in the last few years. Articles that declare social media can cause multitudes of problems, from unhealthy sleep patterns to inability to think straight. So is social media really all that bad? And if so, why do we still care so much?

Social media is one of the fastest and most convenient modes of connection there is today. It’s hard for me to believe that there aren’t any positive impacts of social media. And I don’t believe the problems most people cite as grounds for leaving social media are what we should be focusing on.

Social media sensationalizes the important things. If there’s a mass shooting, there’s an infographic with the bloody details all over your feed that declares a goal of “raising awareness.” One one hand, you probably came to social media to isolate yourself from the outside world, maybe because you read the news and it was simply too much that day. On the other hand, if you don’t repost it you obviously don’t care and you’re probably, like, a really terrible person or something. Pretty soon you’re in

limbo. Eventually you realize that it’s all bait for interaction and ultimately money, and that literally nothing you post on your Instagram story really matters.

Social media is really a place for people to scream their opinion into an abyss to feel like a better person. And the pressure of judgment is not the right reason to be “raising awareness.” When Charli D’Amelio, who has almost 150 million TikTok followers, changed her profile picture from one that was just the words “Black Lives Matter” to a photo of herself after over a year, the internet threw a fit. Yes, her platform is big. Yes, she should be using it for good. Yes, the legal adult can do a lot better than just a profile picture. But it doesn’t matter. Not really. The reasons we hate social media should not be exclusive to the eye damage we may get from the screen time. The true and concerning fact of the matter is that social media allows for opinions to exist in a vacuum, and dangerous people to find the niche group that agrees with them, and enables them.

Always remember: you’re allowed to have opinions not formed by the internet.

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

This artwork, A Life Cycle Story by artist Maureen Hearty, is an example of the type of art installed at other Denver Public Libraries. This interactive sculpture reflects a playful storyline of dandelions and small birds. It was installed at the Smiley Branch Public Library in 2021 as part of Denver’s Public Art Collection program. Photo courtesy of Denver Arts and Venues

The pressure of judgment is not the right reason to be “raising awareness.”

Invest In Park hill

Become A Member of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc.

By Lori Midson Executive Director, GPHC, Inc.

In June of last year, after unpacking an endless parade of moving boxes, I took a break from the monotony and wandered the few blocks from my house to a neighborhood hangout. I was more weary than sociable that evening, but the fellow next to me at the bar was just the opposite. In the hours that followed, he schooled me on all things Park Hill, which included, among other things, a passionate overview of the business block of 28th and Fairfax Street.

The next day I ventured out to explore the block and discovered Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. I went home, popped open my laptop, poked around the GPHC website and signed up for a membership, a decision that was largely influenced by the organization’s exceptional programs and services, community-building events, inclusivity and commitment to work towards

What We Need

Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. accepts food and toiletry donations from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, and by appointment. The address is 2823 Fairfax St. If you’d like to schedule a donation outside of office hours, please call 303-388-0918.

Out of respect for our clients, we kindly ask that you only donate items that have not expired. Thank you for your understanding.

ensuring that GPHC advocates on behalf of its citizens.

That commitment is decades strong, dating back to 1956 when communities of faith formed the Park Hill Action Committee (now GPHC), their fierce dedication and vision resulting in Park Hill becoming Denver’s first racially integrated community. Their victory was celebrated in 1964 when Martin Luther King, Jr. graced Park Hill and inspired overflowing crowds with his passionate pleas for racial equality and nonviolence.

Park Hill is a wonderful place to live, and I’ve met so many amazing neighbors who care deeply, as do we, about the issues affecting our tightknit community. As a registered neighborhood organization and 501(c)(3) nonprofit, GPHC relies almost entirely on memberships dues and other financial gifts to help us support, preserve, promote and strengthen the community.

Our free food pantry, for example, provides emergency food supplies and toi-

Greatest Emergency Food Pantry Needs:

• Pasta sauce

• Ramen

• Coffee

• Canned and fresh fruit (oranges and apples)

• Bags of fresh potatoes

• Bags of fresh onions

• Frozen packages of chicken thighs and drumsticks

• Bags of frozen vegetables

• Canned cat food

• Travel-size toiletries for both men and women

Office Coordinator Hiring an we are

The office coordinator reports to the executive director and works closely and collaboratively with the ED and volunteers. This is a parT-Time, in-office posiTion with an expected time commitment of 15-17 hours per week.

The ideal candidate has an excellent grasp of Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace and the aptitude to learn new software programs. This position also requires flexibility, resourcefulness, professionalism, solid written and communication skills and confidentiality. You’ll do meaningful work and become a fundamental part of a small staff and pool of amazing volunteers committed to neighborhood advocacy, community issues, hungerrelief efforts and sustainability.

VisiT greaTerparkhill.org/join-us/jobs/ for a complete job description. To apply, please email a detailed letter introducing yourself, along with your resume, to director@greaterparkhill.org and write “Office Coordinator Position” in the subject line.

letries to upwards of 1,500 individuals, students and families each year, and we continue to have an ever-increasing demand for our food programs, which are costly to provide. Your support is an integral part of our efforts.

Your support of GPHC also keeps our Weekend Food Program, which provides healthy snacks to Great Park Hill schoolchildren, afloat.

In addition to our food programs, we host monthly community meetings, wherein we give you, our neighbors, the opportunity to interact with community leaders and our board of directors, ask questions about the issues that concern you most and provide feedback about how we can better serve your needs. Members also receive our monthly e-newsletter, which highlights neighborhood events, time-sensitive notices from the City and County of Denver and other information.

Donors

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church

Cure D’Ars Catholic Church

Holly Food Market

Messiah Community Church

Park Hill United Methodist Church

Park Hill Veterinary Medical Center

St. Thomas Episcopal Church

The Blackbaud Giving Fund

Anastasia Williamson - Kentwood City

Katharine and Daniel Ambruso

Annie and David Pratt

Penny AshleyLawrence

John Basham

Ben Sachs and Debra

Knapp

Barbara Berryman

Simon Blamires

Heather Blanchard and William White

Janet Bloom

Lynn and Dennis Blum

Brenda Morrison and Brian Shaw

Brian Kelly and Nanci Young

Isabel Brown

Inga Calvin

A Bruce Campbell

Anthony Caravella

Catherine and David Manchester

Brooke Chesebro

Ed Chew

Christine and Daniel Allen

Kristy Corcoran

Gayle Costello

Jenna Cruff

Joanne Curran

Veronica D’Annibale

David and Katherina Mays

Kathy Dea

Deborah MacNair & Sharon Wilkins

Colin Dodunski

Georgia Dodunski

Duane and Jean Gall

Sheila Duffy

Ellen Reath and Craig Maginness

Anne & Joe Frank

Chip Galaty and Jenny Soep

Gary and Carolyn Martyn

Bobbi Gillis

Elliott Goe

Andrea and Phil Gordon

Susannah Grossman

Shriram Gurumoorthy

Lisa Haddox

Simon and Elizabeth Hambidge

Amy Harris

Harry and Gail Doby

Daniel Hazlett

Doug Hazlett

Janet Hazlett

Greg Hey

Carol Hiller

Gary Hillman

Stephen Hills

Martha Hite

Carolyn Hoste

Joel Hunter-Pirtle

We also publish the award-winning Greater Park Hills News, which is supported by advertisers and distributed for free to residents and businesses in and around Park Hill.

In a nutshell, we need members to help us sustain the longevity of our organization’s programs and services.

If you’re already a GPHC member, thank you. If you’re not a member of GPHC, please consider joining the other 465 members who are by completing the membership form on page 25 or visiting our website at greaterparkhill.org/get-involved/becomea-member. Support through your membership, which starts at just $35 per year, makes everything we do at GPHC possible. It’s a commitment to investing in yourself and your neighborhood.

With your help, 2023 will be our best year ever.

Irene Andress and Joan and Jim Marchiori

Jennifer Jacobs

Jeff and Mayzie

Mayfield

Thomas Jensen

Matt Jordan

Bill Juraschek

Bernadette Kelly

Kevin and Catherine Cray

Sue and Roger Kilgore

Jane W Klever

Thomas Korson

Kelly Krhounek

James Larcus

Andrew Lefkowits

Barbara Lewis

Ben Lewis

Sharon and Joe Little

Pat Longo

Mark and Debra

Lovell

Leslie Madsen

Marcia Lamb and Jackson Turnacliff

Matthew and Elizabeth Spohn

Tim McCarty

Fred Merten

Karen Merten

Michele and Erik

Stark

Charles A Miller

Mr & Mrs. Fred Bender

Harriet Mullaney

Bob Murphy

Carol Murphy

Chuck E Nelson

Chris and Erin Nielsen

Mark Pressey

Samantha Lehni Reeves

Robert and Connie Friesen

Jeffrey and Karen Roberts

Wendy P Rouder

Connie Rule

Mary Salsich

Nancy Schoyer

Christopher Stewart

Russ and Amber Strickler

Susan Niermeyer and John A. Brett

Marilyn Swan

Sarah and Brin Swartzendruber

Kelley

Ardell and Donna Swartzendruber

Judith Swinnerton

Wendi Torres

Charis Uhlson

Warren Volz

Pam and Chris Wineman

Dean and Marsha

Woodward

Kelly Woodward

Ryan Zeeb

Volunteers

David Addor

Henry Bootz

Emily Clark

Martha Douglas

Molly Douglas

Maria Flora

Noni Horwitz

Linda Lovell

Beverly and David Miller

Carole Robertson

Deb Rosenbaum

Mary Salsich

Shoshi Shaw

Who We Are, What We Do

The Board of Directors of GPHC, Inc.

The 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.

The GPHC board is comprised of volunteer at-large representatives, as well as 10 district representatives. If you are interested in volunteering or serving on a committee, contact current GPHC Board Chair Shane Sutherland at chair@greaterparkhill.org for details.

The following are current board members, and their best contacts. Many representatives prefer to be contacted through the main office, at 303-388-0918 or info@ greaterparkhill.org. The GPHC world headquarters is at 2823 Fairfax St.

If you have an issue you’d like to discuss about the neighborhood, contact your board representative.

For those board members who don’t have a phone or email contact listed, leave a message at the main GPHC number and it will be forwarded to your elected representative.

• Board Chair Shane Sutherland: chair@greaterparkhill.org

• Secretary and Zoning/Property Use Chair Bernadette Kelly

• Treasurer Heather Shockey

• District 1 Amy Harris

• District 2 Brenda Morrison

• District 3 Heather Shockey

• District 4 Kevin Wiegand

• District 5 Sophie Milam

• District 6 Phebe Lassiter

• District 7 Jon Bowman

• District 8 Nam Henderson

• District 9 Doug Schuler

• District 10 Colette Carey

• At Large Maria Flora

• At Large Shanta Harrison

• At Large Tracey MacDermott

• At Large Laurel Mohr

• At Large Louis Plachowski: lplachowski@gmail.com

• At-Large Leslie Twarogowski

• Youth Services Chair Rick Medrick

• Blessed Sacrament Rep. James Groves

• Park Hill United Methodist Rep. Jacqui Shumway

paid for by Terrance Roberts for Mayor: Save Our City Campaign

Zoom every Friday at 10 a.m. and Wednesday at 6 p.m. Register at taichidenver.com/ beginner-tai-chi-zoom-class/. Longtime Park Hillians Jacqui and Joe, who teach the class, will send you the link to join. Walk2Connect

www.walk2connect.com

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

Submit

gphn c l ass I f I eds

LAWN CARe

Aeration – Sod fertilizer – Power rake – Lawn mowing, Rototilling – Hauling – Stump removal – Weed control – Lawn mower repair – Shrubbery care – Small trees removed 720327-9911

MASoNRY SeRVICeS

Masonry Services- Brick, Stone, Concrete, restoration, tuck pointing, chimneys, retaining walls, city sidewalks. Licensed, bonded, and insured. www.thebrickandstoneguy.com References. Call Shawn 303-907-9223

PAINTINg

PREMIER PAINT WORKS since 1993. Denver’s Residential Paint Specialists. Int/Ext Neat, conscientious craftsmanship by polite, respectful, honest & fully insured crew, impeccable references. Call or text John at 720-849-3921.

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 720485-7207 or jpabz04@gmail.com

PLASTeR RePAIR

THE WALL REBUILDERS Interior plaster

(and drywall) repair. We repair cracks, holes, crumbling walls, etc. Specializing in older homes, though we fix houses of every age.

Dan and Laura Pino 303-698-1057

Residential reroofing and repairs, 17 years experience, licensed, bonded, and insured. Gutter replacement and cleaning. Call Shawn 303-907-9223

SKI

& SN

Affordable ski and snowboard waxing and tuning. Providing pickup and delivery to your residence. TEXT BRETT 303-550-6166 www. centralparkskiboardtuning.com Tuckpointing. Over 25 years experience. Ful ly 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

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 BReNDA MoRRISoN newspaper@greaterparkhill.org 720-287-0442 (voicemail) the deadline for submitting a classified ad is the 15th of every month

Design and Renovation Specialists