Geomagnetic storms brought a spectacular display of Northern Lights across the night skies in Colorado in mid-November. Estes Park-based photographer and adventurer Chelsea Stills (TheHikingMermaid.com) captured this image of the aurora in Rocky Mountain National Park. “[The lights] exploded over the Continental Divide with the most vivid dancing display of naked-eye pinks and greens that bounced across the lake,” Stills said. “I was pretty sure I died and went to heaven.”
By Cara DeGette | GPHN Editor
What a year. Donald Trump was installed, again, as president, and he immediately pardoned all the insurrectionists who stormed the United States Capitol for him four years ago. This time around, characters named Elon and Bobby Jr., Karoline and Kristi, Pam and Loomer have replaced Ivanka and Jared, KellyAnne, Rudy, Scaramucci and Bannon.
Closer to home, after years of controversy, the Park Hill Golf Course is on track to become the city’s fourth largest public
park — but not without more unexpected sand traps. The Bus Rapid Transit project is in full throttle, threatening dozens of independent businesses along the historic Colfax strip. Throw in a movie shoot, a high school celebrating its sesquicentennial, a wild tour of cats and a dangerous intersection that the city just won’t fix, and you’ve got 2025 in a wrap. The following are Park Hill highlights of a year that is quickly drawing to a close.
The eight-year struggle by open space advocates to protect the Park Hill Golf Course from development ended on Jan. 15. At a press conference on the grounds of the former golf course at Colorado Boulevard and 35th Avenue, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston announced the deal: Westside Investment Partners had agreed to swap the 155-acre property for a 145-acre commercial tract near Denver International Airport. The former golf course, Johnston said, would become the city’s fourth largest park. This was, noted Parks and Recreation Director Jolon Clark, “a big deal.” And to be clear, there was one thing that made this big deal utterly remarkable: If it weren’t for the work of a grassroots group of Park Hill-based open space advocates, the property would have been — with the blessing of city hall — on its way to becoming a massive commercial and development project.
Year in rearview continued on page 6
By Cara DeGette | GPHN Editor
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We welcome contributions, and we strive for inclusion and community engagement. Do you have a story idea or news tip, or want to contribute a news or feature article, opinion column, or letter to the editor? Email me at editor@greaterparkhill.org.
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Our distribution system is unique, to say the least. It also reflects our commitment to ensuring that the newspaper is truly a shared community effort. Here’s how the monthly miracle works: The newspaper is printed at the end of every month and delivered to our office at 2823 Fairfax St. Bundles of newspapers are then assembled by volunteers. Our delivery driver, Sheldon Sidney Mikesell, delivers those bundles to businesses in and around Park Hill, and to the homes of volunteer blockworkers. The blockworkers then distribute the newspapers at the beginning of the month to houses on their block, all over Park Hill.
Depending on how many homes are on the block, delivery takes about 15-20 minutes a month. It’s a great chance to get outside, spend some time with kids if you’ve got them, give the dog a walk, or just say hello to your neighbors. This delivery system has been in place since the Greater Park Hill News first began publishing 65 years ago. We currently need volunteers to regularly distribute the newspaper on many blocks east of Monaco Parkway and north of Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. Check out our handy distribution map at gphndelivery.greaterparkhill.org to sign up for an available block. Hint: If the block you live on already has a blockworker, feel free to sign up for one nearby! Happy holidays, and happy reading!
Editor: Cara De G ette
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Art Director: Kathy Conarro
Distribution: Sheldon Sidney Mikesell
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Deadline for submissions is the 15th of every 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.
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11/20/25, 12:46 PM
Masked Trogons are fairly common in humid highland forests in South America, from Venezuela to Brazil. They are usually found hanging out by themselves, or in pairs, perched quietly under the canopies in higher elevations. These colorful birds have distinct eye rings, and their namesake dark masks are usually obvious, especially on females. Like all trogons, the Masked Trogon feeds on fruits and insects, and build their nests in the soft wood of rotting vertical tree trunks. This beauty was photographed in Ecuador by Park Hill photographer Mark Silverstein.
Show the billionaires that they don’t own you by shopping local and supporting independent businesses this holiday season. The annual Colfax Sip & Stroll is Saturday, Dec. 6, from 2 p.m. to 6 pm. Here’s how it works: Pick up a “passport” at Park Hill Treasures (6035 E. Colfax) or Marczyk’s (5100 E. Colfax) to register for prizes. Then visit 12 participating merchants along the ’Fax for a passport stamp, wine and food samples, and holiday bargains. Turn in your passport to enter a drawing for a big prize. Check tinyurl.com/HolidaySipStroll for participating merchants.
Here is your chance to meet prolific author Phil Goodstein. The Colorado
historian will be sitting around the area’s oldest, nonprofit cooperative bookstore at 4620 23rd Ave on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
He’ll have plenty of copies of featured books, including Park Hill Promise, Modern East Denver, and the recentlyreleased Denver Jewish Cemeteries
Downtown’s massive Mile High Tree is all lit up through Dec. 31. The tree will be set up at the Tivoli Quad at the Auraria Campus this year (not at Civic Center Park, as in past years).
The 110-foot-tall tree is 10 feet higher than the tallest Rockefeller Center Christmas tree in history and contains 60,000 LED lights. Up to 140 people can gather under the tree at once for an immersive light and holiday music show and experience. The free light shows are held nightly every 15 minutes between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m
The Denver Potters Guild’s annual show and sale is Thursday, Dec. 4, through Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Sixth Avenue United Church, 3250 E. Sixth Ave. (at Adams Street). Top local artists sell their work in a variety of media including ce ramics, jewelry, glass, wood and fiber. Admission is free and street parking is available. Check denverpotters.com for hours of operation and additional information. Follow Denver Potters @ castleclayartists on Instagram and Facebook.
Dec.
Join thousands of your closest friends for Denver’s an nual Parade of Lights on Saturday, Dec. 6. Festivities begin at 6 p.m. at the City and County Building, and then the parade winds through down town. The Parade of Lights features more than 40 floats, gi ant balloons, marching bands, equestrian units,
cultural displays and special guest appearances, including Major Waddles the penguin, and Santa Claus. It’s sponsored by 9News and is free and open to the public. Check
The annual Camp Christmas returns to the Stanley Marketplace now through Christmas Eve. Created by local artist Lonnie Hanzon in partnership with DCPA Off-Center, the marketplace will be filled with holiday decor, lights and cheer. Camp Christmas events include holiday-themed pop-up bars, free visits with Santa every Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a Merry Badge scavenger hunt and a holiday gift shop. Stanley Marketplace is at 2501 Dallas St., east of Park Hill.
Every night at 7 p.m. through Dec. 31, look to the west, and if you have a good vantage point, you will see Denver’s sky filled with 600 drones creating holiday-themed animations — including Santa Claus and his reindeer. Other Denver landmarks and icons will also be on display. The free Mile High drone shows last 11 minutes, and their huge displays reach 500 feet in the air and are up to 500 feet wide. The best views will be west of downtown, from the Tivoli Quad at Auraria Campus and Sculpture Park at the Denver Performing Arts Complex.
This year’s will also be set up on the Tivoli Quad on the Aura ria Campus downtown, rather than in Civic Center Park.
The authentic Germanstyle market is open daily through Dec. 23. huts with handcrafted ornaments and European-inspired gifts, plus traditional German fare, music and glühwein (hot spiced wine).
The merchants on Kearney Street between 22nd and 23rd avenues have joined forces and are throwing a big holiday bash on Sunday, Dec. 7. Everyone is invited. Stop by from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. for caroling, cookie decorating, crafts, face-painting, a photo booth, food and drink discounts and, naturally, Santa.
Dr. Kate received a BS in dental hygiene in 1982 and her DDS in 1989 , both from the University of Colorado. A second generation dentist, she proudly provides up-to-date technology with old fashioned care and concern. 425
Dr. Kate Hakala and her staff are pleased to welcome
Firas Habas to the team. Dr. Habas is a graduate of Marquette Dental School and has received advanced training in the U.S. and Switzerland.
For your three million sparkling lights fix, head over to the Denver Zoo, in City Park just east of Park Hill. Now through Jan. 4 the live animals are joined by animal-shaped light sculptures and installations, fire barrels and holidayinspired food and drink. Tickets are at DenverZoo.org.
The Colorado Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker has been a Denver tradition for 65 years. The Nutcracker features dancers and Tchaikovsky’s original score performed live by the Colorado Ballet Orchestra. The ballet follows Clara and her Nutcracker Prince on an enchanted journey into the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy,
accompanied by dancing mice, sugar plums and swirling snowflakes. Multiple performances at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House downtown through Dec. 28. Tickets are at coloradoballet.org.
The Denver Botanic Gardens also puts on a dazzling display of lights at its Blossoms of Light, up now through Jan 11. Lights transform the gardens in winter into an illuminated wonderland, with displays and immersive installations. Bundle up and wander along the mile-long path and check out the Botanic Gardens’ many plant collections. The Botanic Gardens is southeast of Park Hill, at 1007 York St. Tickets at BotanicGardens.org.
Artist’s rendering depicting what the East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit might eventually look like. See page 11 for what it looks like now.
Like it or not, the city’s Bus Rapid Transit project has arrived. Constructionrelated disruptions to Colfax businesses — most of them independently owned — will be a sure thing for the foreseeable future. Readers: Open your wallets and give these businesses some love.
and Fairfax.
A series of Park Hill shootings, plus an extensive middle-of-the-night gunfire episode on the residential and commercial block of 28th and Fairfax, left neighbors rattled. Police data shows that crime rates in South Park Hill have increased by 10 percent between 2023 and 2024, with sharp spikes in robberies, burglaries and aggravated assault. Overall crimes decreased just slightly — by 1 to 2 percent — in North and Northeast Park Hill. However, both of those areas of the neighborhood experienced marked increases in several types of violent crimes over the past year. A growing number of residents are angry about slow police response times and a lack of communication. “It is impossible to get any information from the police,” said one neighbor during a highly-charged community meeting.
Colorado state Sen. James Coleman seemed an unlikely politico — that is, until he won his first bid for public office in a squeaker of an election eight years ago. This year, his Democratic colleagues handed him the gavel and made Coleman, 37, the powerful President of the Colorado Senate. It’s been a pretty good run for a Park Hill kid who got kicked out of Smiley Middle School for fighting bullies. Coleman shared some of his story in a freewheeling January interview with the Greater Park Hill News
Increased traffic along 17th Avenue has transformed a parkway lined with stately homes into a dangerous speedway. Park Hill resident Cathy McCall did some digging and determined that just one-third of all of the traffic on the street is traveling at or below the posted speed limit of 30 miles per hour. And here’s the rub: Denver traffic cops say they don’t consider speeders as speeding unless they are driving more than 10 miles per hour over the posted limit — even in residential areas. Some cops say they won’t stop people unless they are speeding more than 15 miles per hour over the limit. On 17th Avenue, that translates to 45 miles an hour.
After 18 months of renovations, the Pauline Robinson Branch Library at 33rd and Holly Street reopened on Feb. 24. A celebration was held on March 1, with remarks from City Librarian Michelle Jeske, Denver City Councilwoman Shontel Lewis and Don Short, nephew of the library’s namesake, Pauline Robinson. Renovations include enlarged and improved spaces and a new community room.
Thousands of people gathered at the Colorado Capitol on Feb. 5 to protest Trump’s actions targeting immigrants, DEI programs, LGBTQ+ rights and the weakening and defunding of various federal programs. The rally was part of a coordinated nationwide movement, 50501, which stands for 50 protests, 50 states, 1 day. The protests came hours after federal immigration authorities raided apartments across the Denver area. A second demonstration, was held two weeks later, on Feb. 17.
The city’s bikeway project on Kearney Street through Park Hill went south in a hurry. Neighbors were furious when workers showed up with little warning and transformed the street into a bewildering mass of plastic bollards, street sign pollution, highly reflective tape and confusing “pinch points.” Denver officials initially claimed they had obtained the neighbors’ blessing for this plan (back in 2022). But the outcry made it clear they had been mistaken. Workers then spent several weeks dismantling much of their handiwork. Postmortem:
Still remaining along the route are signs depicting bears on bicycles, advertising the neighborhood bikeway. Instead of correctly abbreviating “neighborhood,” (“NBHD”), the signs say “NHBD.”
On March 21, Sen. Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandra Ocacio-Cortez drew more than 34,000 people to Civic Center Park as part of their “Fighting Oligarchy” tour. Organized protests against Trump and Elon Musk — the world’s richest man who has a green light to dismantle and defund entire federal agencies and programs — continue.
Mayor Mike Johnston was one of four U.S. mayors called to testify on Denver’s immigration policies in Washington D.C. In his opening statement Johnston noted that, when he became mayor in 2023, as many as 300 immigrants were arriving in Denver every day. With little or no notice, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott bused them to Colorado and dropped them off in 10-degree weather, many in T-shirts and sandals. All told, 42,000 people arrived in Denver over 18 months — the largest per capita influx to any city in America.
For two days the shops along the business block at 23rd Avenue and Dexter Street were transformed into a set for the feature film The Man Who Changed The World. The movie, a “generational family drama,” is set in 1969 — and the storefronts along 23rd were gussied up in period style for the shoot. Honey Hill became “The “Corner Cafe” and the dentist office next door was the “Lora Lee” dress shop. The Park Hill Bookstore was reborn as “Penny’s Florist.” Across the street, Common Salon became “Gino’s Barber Shop,” and The Cherry Tomato became “Mr. Steak.” Spinelli’s Market remained Spinelli’s Market. The release date for the movie has not yet been announced.
As Earth Day turns 55 this year, columnist Tracey MacDermott noted that humans are being urged to unite behind renewable energy and triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030. But the challenges are awesome: Under the Trump administration, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act and Endangered Species Act are in the crosshairs. Plans are underway to step up drilling, including in such protected areas as the Alaska Arctic Wilderness Area.
On April 5 the Indivisible Project mobilized a national day of action. The message, organizers say, is simple: Hands Off. “Americans are fed up with the Musk-Trump power grab and want an end to the lawless raiding of our government,” according to the group’s website.
In 1875, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act, prohibiting racial discrimination in public accommodations. President Ulysses S. Grant authorized a new 20-cent piece (an experiment that lasted only three years). In Silver City, New Mexico, Billy the Kid escaped from a jail by climbing out of a chimney and became a fugitive from justice. Also that year, East High School opened its doors to students for the first time. This year — 2025 — students, faculty, administrators and alumni launched a yearlong celebration to mark the school’s 150th birthday. The students who have walked its halls include legions of kids who grew up in Park Hill.
After an impressive six-year run as the newspaper’s youth columnist, Anya Nitczynski decided to graduate from high school and head off to college. Beginning when she was in seventh grade, Nitczynski provided monthly insights from a teen’s perspective on life in Park Hill, including several wild years of a pandemic. “It is a strange and glamorous feeling to have years of your life recorded in the form of newspaper columns,” Nitczynski noted in her farewell column. “Park Hill and writing these columns have
reader, for being willing to follow along.”
The East High School boys rugby team won its ninth state championship, vanquishing the Valor Christian Eagles by a single point: 26-25. East Head
Coach Zach Levek said that early season losses kept the Angels “hungry and motivated.” Park Hill’s senior co-captain scrum-half Cole Conforti and junior co-captain 8-man Julian Rowse were key contributors in winning the championship game.
Neighbors living near Monaco Parkway and 17th Avenue are fed up and are demanding the city take immediate steps to install safety measures at that treacherous intersection. Dozens of sometimes-horrific crashes have occurred there in recent years.
In just one of many examples, careless, confused and speeding drivers have crashed into a home on Monaco Parkway and its surrounding property five times in 16 months. Twice, drivers crashed through the home’s brick exterior, into the family’s dining room. The first time the family had to move out for 11 months while repairs were made. The second time the impact was so intense that a one-ton boulder was catapulted into the house, where it lodged
against the dining room table. Incredibly, no one was killed. Neighbors want the city to install directional and warning traffic signs to help confused drivers navigate the dangerous intersection.
Under clear skies and perfect weather, hundreds turned out to welcome spring and admire the handiwork of gardeners and artists in the annual Park Hill Garden Walk.
What started out as a kids bike ride down the 2300 block of Eudora has grown into the grandest 4th of July spectacle in Denver. This year, more than 60 groups marched, danced, rode, trotted, rolled, rumbled and karatechopped their way down 23rd Avenue from Dexter to Krameria streets.
Neighbors continue — without success — to seek action from the city to fix the dangerous intersection at 17th Avenue and Monaco Parkway. Dozens of crashes have occurred in recent years. Speed enforcement is nonexistent. Confused drivers have knocked down directional signs and warnings that used to help them navigate the intersection. The city opted to stop replacing them.
In July, a group of concerned citizens organized a public meeting, attended by numerous city officials. Neighbors pleaded with Denver leaders to make immediate fixes to the dangerous intersection at Monaco Parkway and 17th Avenue, where multiple crashes have occurred.
District 8 City Councilwoman Shontel Lewis did not show up to the meeting. Her aide, Bre Huizar-Arellano, was there instead. This is what she said:
“There are so many complicated timelines that go into implementation and making sure that we’re seeing policy changes and execution of these safety concerns that have been on the minds of many people. We’ve known for a long time that there are dangerous intersections and so I’m really happy to see a collaboration effort so we can see some change there.”
This is what District 9 City Councilman Darrell Watson told the audience he he would do:
“[I will be] providing ongoing dialogue to create an implementation action team and start working through these things, providing a clear communication protocol to make sure we’re executing, we check things off of the box that we can, and we come back and we offer a real plan to the neighbors. So that’s what I’m offering.”
The Royal Palace is Rubble
The local landmark, some say haunted, Royal Palace Motel at Colorado Boulevard and Colfax Avenue was demolished. The nearly 60-year old blue-andwhite motel, with its iconic neon crown-and-discoball sign, had been neither royal nor open for 12 years. A six-story apartment building is planned for the site.
No Kings, No
Crowns, No
Thrones
On June 14, Flag Day, which was also his birthday, Donald Trump spent $45 million in tax dollars for a military parade in the nation’s capital. An estimated 200,000 people showed up.
That same day in cities across the country, four to six million people staged raucous “No Kings” protests against the president and his policies. “They’ve defied our courts, deported Americans, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, and slashed our services,” according to organizers. A Park Hill protest at Turtle Park drew an estimated 100 people.
The East Colfax Bus Rapid Transit project is officially underway through Park Hill. The street is torn up through its middle and surrounded by fencing and concrete barriers. Traffic is constricted to a single lane in each direction. Owners of dozens of independently-owned businesses say the construction is threatening their livelihoods, as customers stay away.
The city has still not installed any safety measures or signage at the dangerous intersection.
Year in rearview continued on page 12
Amid accusations of secret negotiations and allowing a private company to promote mass surveillance of Denver residents, Mayor Mike Johnston extended the city’s contract with Flock Safety for at least five more months. The use of the Flock cameras has generated heated pushback from
the ACLU, reproductive and immigrant rights advocates, members of the Denver city council and others who fear the cameras pose a serious threat to civil liberties. At the September meeting of the Greater Park Hill Community, at-large council member Sarah Parady described how the cameras work, as well as their potentially dangerous misuse.
Last year’s inaugural Park Hill Cat Tour was such a roaring good time that organizer Megan Nyce decided to do it again. The tour consists of humans walking a pre-planned route, where they can observe cats engaging in catlike activities. The three-hour walking tour featured 23 participating cats, and the crowd easily exceeded last year’s 70 or so people. Meow.
The Home Tour and Street Fair began in 1978, the brainchild of a local realtor who organized a public tour of Park Hill homes to encourage people to explore the neighborhood’s rich history and diverse architecture.
Over the years it has evolved into a full-day, full-blown, not-to-miss event, complete with an all-day street fair. This year’s tour featured five home whose owners opened their doors to invite in all the looky-loos.
The city has still not installed any safety measures or signage at the dangerous intersection.
For several years, Denver Public Schools has been synonymous with ongoing drama featuring the seven-member school board that oversees the state’s largest district. This fall, a record-breaking $1.6 million was spent by candidates and outside groups in a high-stakes election.
On one side: three candidates who were endorsed by the teachers union. On the other side: three who were funded by corporate interests. On the fringes: two incumbents.
GPHN:
your style of leadership, in 10 words or less.
In the end, the teachers’ choices won. Coming in a close second were campaign wonks and pollsters, beneficiaries of this year’s infusion of high-dollar donors. Need an example of those wonks hard at work with their on-point, spin-to-win messaging? Check out the following answers to this question the Greater Park Hill News posed to all candidates in an October Q&A. (Note: color-coding is ours.)
Alex Magaña: Collaborative, student-centered, innovative, resilient, equity-driven, accountable, community-focused.
Amy Klein Molk: Collaborative, transparent , equity-driven, community-centered, innovative, solutions-focused.
Caron Blanke: Integrity, transparency and accountability. Every child seen — every school supported.
Scott Esserman: Visionary, community-focused, and driven by practical solutions.
DJ Torres: Inclusive, transparent , collaborative, equity-focused, accountable, and community-driven.
Jeremy Harris: Collaborative, transparent , data-driven, community-rooted, and relentlessly student-focused.
Monica Hunter: Collaborative and innovative; I see possibilities instead of challenges.
Timaya Jackson: Collaborative, transparent , equity-driven, accountable, and focused on students.
Michelle Quattlebaum: Collaborative, transparent , equity-centered, accountable, community-centered and fun.
Leslie Williams, senior librarian of the newly-renovated Pauline Robinson Branch Library, is the recipient of Greater Park Hill Community’s Babbs Award. The annual award honors local leaders whose work for the betterment of the com munity has been exem plary. For the past 12 years, Williams has overseen the operations and programs of the library with calm leadership, grace and good cheer.
The news that the King of Park Hill had been arrested was a stunner. And what Chauncey Billups, the former bas-
ketball star and coach of the Portland Trail Blazers was accused of doing is even more shocking: In a late October press conference, FBI Director Kash Patel alleged that Billups, the onetime star basketball player from Park Hill, participated in a scheme to scam wealthy people out of millions of dollars in rigged poker games organized by the mafia. Billups’ lawyer denied the allegations.
The latest day of anti-Trump protests occurred in the midst of what would grow into the longest government shutdown in history — 41 days. Crowd numbers worldwide were estimated at 7 million people, with 25,000 jamming downtown Denver. In Park Hill, 343 people gathered to protest at Turtle Park at the corner of 23rd Avenue and Dexter Street.
The retro neon sign of the old La Vista Motel on Colfax is glowing once again. Local developer Nathan Beal carried out a massive makeover to the midcentury modern motel, which had fallen into serious disrepair. The reopened motel, at 5500 E. Colfax, has 23 rooms, a coffee shop and a cocktail lounge, El Piñon.
The city has still not installed any safety measures or signage at the dangerous intersection.
in his car. At Ash Street, the car — and Phillips — exploded. The Greater Park Hill News revisited the day Park Hill became “a bedlam of hysterical humanity” — with newspaper coverage that included this detailed hand-drawn map.
Denver
On Nov. 4, Denver voters approved nearly $1 billion worth of general obligation bonds for projects for streets and bridges, cultural and health facilities, affordable housing and shelters, and playgrounds and parks. Included was $70 million to build the 155-acre Park Hill Park.
After a year of massive rallies opposing Trump’s policies, citizens wielded the power of the voting booth. In Colorado, progressives swept Aurora elections, as well as school boards across the state. In Denver, all four teachers union-endorsed candidates handily beat corporate candidates running for the DPS school board. Can they keep up the momentum? 2026 will see.
Denver voters approved his nearly $1 billion plan for city projects, but criticism has mounted over Mayor Mike Johnston’s numerous missteps this fall.
• A CBS4 investigation revealed that — just as the city was gearing up to dedicate Park Hill Park — Johnston quietly approved giving Westside Investment Partners 20 more acres than originally agreed as part of the city council-approved land swap. Johnston made the secret deal after the Federal Aviation Administration, which must accept the transaction, flagged abnormalities and asked for extra time to review it.
• Another CBS4 investigation found that the company that owns the Denver Post owes millions to the cash-strapped city for back rent on its downtown building. Johnston hadn’t mentioned this to the public or to city council — which infuriated several members.
Big changes are afoot at the Mosaic Community Campus (formerly Johnson & Wales) in southeast Park Hill. Archway Communities, which renovated three former dorms and transformed them to affordable housing, now plans to take possession of the two other former dorms on campus and turn them into affordable housing as well. St. Elizabeth’s, which operates its private K-8 school at former Treat Hall, announced it will close at the end of the school year for financial reasons.
The city has still not installed any safety measures or signage at the dangerous intersection. The next-door neighbor of the home and property that has suffered five crashes in 16 months took matters into his own hands. He erected a massive light display on the lawn. It faces Monaco and can easily be seen by motorists traveling east on 17th. The red flashing arrows rifle to the left, with an accompanying message that reads “PLEASE STOP HITTING OUR HOUSES.”
Colorado birders went gaga this year over the surprising arrival of several beauties that are definitely not from around here.
• In a 9News interview, Johnston falsely claimed that Flock cameras had cracked the murder case of Jax Gratton, a transgender hairstylist. Gratton’s murder remains unsolved, and her mother said she was “shocked and appalled” by the mayor’s claim.
Some have termed the mayor’s behavior as “a pattern of secrecy and spin.” Others have begun referring to him as “Lyin’ Mike.” Former mayoral candidate Lisa Calderón — who has emerged as one of Johnston’s biggest critics — weighed in sharply after his Flock-related falsehood. “Denver’s Pinocchio Mayor is at it again,” she said.
Seven months after the house on 17th and Monaco was crashed into (the fifth time in 16 months the property was assaulted), the city has still not installed any safety measures or signage at the dangerous intersection.
Anhinga in June
Only three Anhingas have previously been spotted in Colorado. But in June, guess who was spotted just chilling out in a Boulder pond?
Wood Stork in August Big, gangly Wood Storks usually live in the swamps of Florida and Mexico. But in August, this guy was spotted flying over Ferril Lake in City Park. He then headed northwest, and hunkered down in a pond in Broomfield. It was the first Wood Stork spotted in Colorado in 91 years.
are
From the bottom of our hearts, the Greater Park Hill News thanks every organization that placed a dislay ad in 2025.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Ars Nova Singers arsnovasingers.org
Childrens Museum of Denver 303-561-0101 mychildsmuseum.org
Cleo Parker Robinson Dance 303-295-1759 cleoparkerdance.org
Dance Institute 303-525-0011 danceinstitutedenver.com
Denver Center for the Performing Arts 303-893-4000 denvercenter.org
Denver Museum of Nature & Science 720-287-0442 dmns.org
Front Range Chamber Players frontrangechamberplayers.org
KH Piano Academy 912-663-0879 khpianoacademy.com
Park Hill Art Club parkhillartclub.org
Robert Anderson Gallery 303-257-0684 robertandersongallery.com
AUTO
Dart Auto 303-562-1015 dartauto.com
CAMPAIGNS & ELECTIONS
Amy Klein Molk For Denver School Board At Large amy4denver.com
Denver Kids vs Big Tobacco yesfordenverkids.org
Harris For Denver School Board harris4dps.org
Jackson For DPS 303-618-1809 jackson4dps.com
DINING
9 Thai Restaurant 303-993-6342 9thairestaurant.com
BoxBox 303-558-6385 orderboxbox.com
Dumpling Kitchen Colfax 303-993-8645
Esters at Oneida Park 303-997-4173 estersdenver.com
Honey Hill Cafe 720-242-6048 honeyhillcafe.com
JP Nori Sushi II 303-900-3988 jpnorisushi.com
Long Table Brewhouse 720-486-0927 lngtbl.com
Rosso Pomodoro Pizza 720-769-5446 rossopizza.com
Spicy Thai ll 303-388-6300 spicythaisushi.com
Supreme Chicken 303-955-7367 https://tinyurl.com/Supremechicken
The Baking Room 303-393-8269 thebakingroom.net
The Spicy Radish 720-605-9389 thespicyradish.com
The Stanley Market 720-990-6743 stanleymarketplace.com
Yaqui Tacos 303-927-6429 https://tinyurl.com/yaquitacos
Bluff Lake Nature Center 720-708-4147 Blufflake.org
Code Ninja 720-594-2633 codeninjas.com/co-denver
Denver Language School 303-557-0852 denverlanguageschool.org
Denver Preschool Program dpp.org
Denver School of the Arts 720-424-1700 dsa.dpsk12.org/
Family Star Montessori 303-477-7827 familystar.net
International School of Denver 303-340-3647 Isdenver.org
Mind Craft 303-341-4065 mindcraftmakerspace.com
Montessori Childrens House of Denver 305-667-8670 endeavorschools.com
Park Hill Adventure 303-321-6163 theparkhilladventure.com
St. Elizabeths School 303-322-4209 https://stelizabethsdenver.org
Urban Farm 303-262-6070 theurbanfarm.org
Wild Ink Collective 303-862-0044 wildinkwritingcollective.org
EVENTS
City Park Day 303-495-0819
Park Hill 4th of July Parade parkhillparade.com
Park Hill Art Festival 303-324-5956 coloradoartshows.com
Park Hill Cat Tour 303-909-5872
Park Hill Garden Walk parkhillgardenwalk.org
Park Hill Home Tour parkhillhometour.org
FINANCIAL & TAX SERVICES
Kuhn Advisors 303-803-1016 kuhnadvisors.com
Caring Transitions of East Denver 213-300-7446 caringtransitionseastdenver.com
Central Park Weight Loss centralparkweightloss.com
Embodiment Pilates 303-489-4382 embodimentpilates.com
Hakala Family Dentistry 303-321-8967 hakalafamilydentistry.com
Journey of Care 720-823-3373 journeyofcare.com
HEALTH continued
Park Hill Smiles (formerly Seto family dental) 720-722-9070 parkhillsmile.com
Springbooke Senior Living 303-331-9963 springbrookeretirement.com
Summit Denver Therapy Group summitdenvertherapygroup.com
University of Colorado Anschutz 303-724-5000 cuanschutz.edu
HOME SERVICES
Ball Mechanical 720-333-7216
City Side Remodeling 720-338-0748 citysideremodeling.com
Clarus Window Cleaning 970-313-6993 clariswindowcleaning.com
Diane Gordon Design 303-355-5666 dianegordondesign.com
Emerald Isle Painting 303-322-4735 emeraldislepainting.com
GreenSheen greensheenpaint.com
Havens Inspection LLC 720-498-3612 haveninspects.com
Ireland’s Finest Painting Co 303-512-8777 irelandsfinestinc.com
JR Painting 720-485-7207 jpabz04@gmail.com
Master Mason 720-670-0874
Number One House Clean 720-628-6690
Superior House Cleaning 720-626-3696, 720-276-5174 The Wall Rebuilders 303-698-1057 wallrebuilders.com Van Camp’s Quality Floors 303-871-8377 hardwoodfloorsdenver.com
Aesthetic AF 720-476-5900 Aesthetic-af.com The Knotty Kids
theknottykidssalon.com
Anastasia WilliamsonKentwood City 303-523-2037 anastasiawilliamson.denverrealestate.com/
Carrol Rhead - Mondo West Real Estate 720-231-9034 mondowest.com
Chris Merman - Liv Sothebys 303-358-4294 cmerman@livsothebysrealty.com
Jay Epperson-Compass Wolfe and Epperson Team 303-886-6606 compass.com/agents/jay-epperson/
Keith & Jaden Combs - Kentwood Combs Real Estate 720-218-9614, 303-324-1437 combssellhomes.com
Marcy Eastman - Compass Realty 720-436-5494 marcyeastman.com
Mark Baker - Realtor & Property Investment Specialist 720-257-1541 5280core.com
Natalie Hengel - The Agency 440-552-9731 theagencyre.com/
Nina Kuhl - Realtor Home Smart 303-913-5858 kuhlnina.com
RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS
Blessed Sacrament Catholic School 303-377-8835 bscs-denver.net
Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church 303-355-1651 montview.org
Park Hill Congregational UCC 303-322-9122 parkhillucc.org
Unity on the Avenue 303-322-3901 unityontheavenue.org
RETAIL
Cherry Creek North 303-393-0567 cherrycreeknorth.com
DryBar 720-853-1935 drytbarshops.com
Kearney Street Businesses 303-809-2416
Park Hill Community Bookstore 303-355-8508 parkhillbookstore.org
Park Hill Treasures 720-701-2644 parkhilltreasures.com
The Shape of Wood theshapeofwood.com
Vitamin Cottage Natural Food Markets 303-228-3325 naturalgrocers.com
SPORTS & FITNESS
Body In Motion 720-376-9037 bodyinmotiondc.com
Cheyenne Fencing & Modern Pentathlon Center 303-321-8657 coloradofencing.com
Soccer Electric soccerelectric.com
Star Cycle Denver 303-726-3121 starcycleride.com
Ubergrippen Indoor
Climbing Crag 720-592-0712 ugclimbing.com
By Mark Kuhl | For the GPHN
We’re lucky in Denver to have a large portfolio of items covered by municipal recycling, and this includes most food containers made with paper fiber.
In your purple bin you may toss milk and juice cartons, paper cups, ice cream containers, soup and wine boxes and more. (Pro tip: this holiday season, remember eggnog cartons are indeed recyclable.)
These paper containers are sent to Fox River Fibers in Wisconsin, which separates the valuable paper fiber from unwanted materials like plastic and foil laminates, ink and adhesives. The recycled pulp is used to make new printing paper, tissue and towels. For ease of sorting, Denver Waste Management encourages you not to flatten your food cartons. Containers should be clean and empty, with all sleeves, lids, straws, and stirring sticks removed.
If you’re not sure whether something is purple-bin worthy and you don’t have time to check out DenverGov. org for advice, they say “when in doubt, throw it out.” This keeps contamination out of the recycling stream.
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/recycling-directory/.
By Tracey MacDermott | For the GPHN
As the holidays are in full swing, here’s something to keep in mind: Each year between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, household waste increases, on average, by a whopping 25 percent.
From food waste to increased trash, over-packaging and unnecessary wrapping, ’tis the season of excessiveness. While we all need time to celebrate and gather with loved ones, our holidays need a rethink when it comes to our consumption habits and their high cost to Mother Earth.
Since the 1970’s, Earth Overshoot Day has highlighted the day in the year that our consumption has exceeded Earth’s capacity to regenerate the discarded resources. At the Earth Overshoot website, earthovershoot.org, the Global Footprint Network calculates the number of days of that year in which Earth’s biocapacity suffices to provide for humanity’s Ecological Footprint. The remainder of the year represents the global overshoot.
This year’s calculation fell on July 24. That is eight days earlier than last year. If the rest of the world consumed resources as we do in the United States, that date would advance an astounding four months — to March 13.
Maybe this is the holiday year that we each think a bit harder about our consumption habits and figure out ways to give our children a true gift: simply using less.
This is a great time to readjust. Think about spending less money, prioritizing experiences and creating a more authentic holiday experience for you and your loved ones.
Here are some earth-friendly ideas to consider.
Ditch the car and take a walk through the neighborhood with friends and family to admire all the holiday decorations and lights.
Challenge your loved ones with a New Year’s resolution to implement a weekly no-car day. You will give Mother Earth some love by reducing air pollution and giving back to yourself, saving money and getting additional exercise.
When it comes to gifts, check out our many nearby secondhand, vintage and antique stores, and find something truly unique. Last year, one of the best presents I received came from a creative friend who found something perfect for me at Park Hill Treasures. Buying locally helps boost our local economy and supports our neighborhood businesses.
Is there someone in your life who would love a membership to one of the many superb museums in our city? Or tickets to an event at the Denver Center for Performing Arts?
Giving to charities in a loved one’s name is a thoughtful way to honor someone and support something they care about. And right now so many can really use the financial support.
Join one of many nonprofits in Colorado that is on the front lines of the climate crisis. Ask your loved ones to consider, rather than a present to you, signing a petition to transition our state to clean energy (Here’s the link: safeandhealthyco.org/phase-out-new-fracking-permits)?
Or ask them to donate to The Park People, a Denver group that is dedicated to planting trees, especially in neighborhoods with sparse tree canopy. Neighbors living in Northeast Park Hill have much less tree cover than those in South Park Hill. Let’s spread the gift of trees throughout our Greater Park Hill neighborhood.
Volunteer time to organizations that are in need. In turn you spread goodwill, build stronger community and meet critical needs. Volunteering with family members or a group of friends strengthens bonds and builds shared memories.
In 2026, add more plant-based dishes to your gatherings. Your carbon footprint will be lower and you can help fight climate change. Is the comment, “we made too much food” commonly heard at holiday gatherings? Cut down on the copious. It reduces waste, as well as waistlines.
Wasted food ends up decomposing in landfills. Get creative by turning scraps into new meals, stale bread into breadcrumbs, or making broth. If you just can’t use it, please compost it. Let’s start new traditions that contribute to saving Mother Earth and ultimately ourselves. The best gift we can give will be to secure a future for all.
Tracey MacDermott is an at-large board member of Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. She was trained as a Climate Reality Leader in 2017. She chairs the Sustainability Committee for the Business and Professional Women of Colorado and the National Federation for Business and Professional Women. Email her at traceymacdermott@gmail.com
The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge lost its most celebrated mule deer on Nov. 16. The mature buck, nicknamed “Slingshot” by Arsenal regulars, sported a spectacular atypical set of antlers with more than 20 points. He was found dead near a trail, as reported by the Friends of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal Facebook page. The cause appeared to be natural; the stress of the rut likely took its toll on the aged warrior. The rutting season (November and December for mule deer), can be hard on the bucks, as they battle with their sharp antlers for dominance and access to does. Death from the fighting is not unknown. This photo of Slingshot was taken in September, when his antlers were fully grown and covered with velvet. The Rocky Mountain Arsenal, six miles north of Park Hill, is open to the public year around and is home to herds of deer, bison and a multitude of other wildlife. Photo by Reid Neureiter
By Leslie Williams | Pauline Robinson Branch Librarian
Neighbors, your librarians and staff at the Pauline Branch Library are so grateful for your support and excitement this year.
We reopened in February after being closed for 18 months for renovations, and you have been nothing short of amazing. Thank you so much for visiting our new space, coming to our programs, and checking out books and materials. We can’t wait to see you in January for new programming. Be well and have a safe, happy and healthy December. To end the year, below are the programs offered at both of your Park Hill library locations.
This holiday season, make some snowpeople. And then go read a good book. Credit: Denver Public Library/ Rocky Mountain News Photograph Collection
PAULINE ROBINSON BRANCH
Toddler Storytime | Tuesday Dec. 2, 9, 16 at 10:30 a.m.
Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their grown-ups.
Drop in Tech Help | Wednesday, Dec. 3, 10 at 2 p.m.
Need help navigating the internet, email, or social networks like Facebook? Have questions about your phone or tablet? Want to know how to access eBooks on any device? Drop by to get your questions answered and learn how to use tech more effectively.
Do you Want to Build a Snowman? | Thursday, Dec. 4, 4:15-5:15 p.m.
Do you want to build a snowman? With noses, hats and buttons too? (You know you just sang that.) We’ll make miniature snowmen from air dry clay and decorate them with carrot noses and other accessories. Ideal for kids ages 7-12.
Cookie Decorating | Thursday, Dec. 11, 4:15-5:15 p.m.
Nothing says winter like decorating cookies. We’ll decorate pre-baked cookies with icing and sprinkles. Wear your most festive or ugly holiday sweater. Ideal for kids ages 7-12.
Sew a Fleece Scarf | Thursday, Dec. 18, 4:15-5:15 p.m.
Sew a warm and cozy scarf to wear on a cold day. Need a gift for a friend? Want to make one for yourself? No sewing experience is required. All materials will be provided. Ideal for kids ages 7-12.
PARK HILL BRANCH
Baby Storytimes | Thursdays, 10:15-10:45 a.m. Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for babies ages 0-18 months and their parents or caregivers.
(Cancelled on Dec. 25.)
Toddler Storytimes | Fridays, 10:15-10:45 a.m.
Stories, songs, rhymes and fun for toddlers ages 18-36 months and their parents or caregivers. (Cancelled on Dec. 26.)
Qi Gong | Wednesday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Qi Gong is the cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine. Sometimes called “meditation in motion,” it includes slow, dancelike movements to improve breathing, reduce stress, and gently move the body. All levels and abilities are welcome at this memory-friendly event.
Tween and Teen Game On | Friday, Dec. 12, 4:30-5:30 p.m Come for the games and stay for the community. We provide a safe and fun place for teens to play various tabletop and card games. Team up with friends or fly solo. All are welcome.
Death Café | Monday, Dec. 15, 2-3:30 p.m.
Death Café is an international
movement that invites people to gather and normalize conversations around death — to make the most of LIFE. This is not a grief support group or counseling session. Respect for all views is a priority.
Tween and Teen Advisory Board | Tuesday, Dec. 16, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Join the Tween & Teen Advisory Board to share ideas, shape library events, and help create a welcoming space for everyone. We meet monthly; every session is different.
Kids Book Celebration | Thursday, Dec. 18, 4-5 p.m.
A monthly book celebration for kids in kindergarten through 5th grade that meets the third Thursday of every month. This month, read fiction or nonfiction books about chocolate at home and join us in a taste test of various types of chocolate and how to make chocolate slime.
No Strings Attached Book Chat | Saturday, Dec. 20, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Read whatever you want and attend whenever you can. Share a recent read, an old favorite, or anything in between.
Note: All Denver libraries will close at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve and remain closed on Christmas Day. Libraries are also closed on New Year’s Day. Between Dec. 21 and Jan. 4, Denver libraries are taking a programming break from to give our teams a chance to relax and get ready for the new year. Programs start back up on Jan. 4, 2026.
Greater Park Hill has two public libraries: The Park Hill branch library is at 4705 Montview Blvd. and the Pauline Robinson branch library at 5575 E. 33rd Ave.
All the trimmings: Volunteers gathered at the GPHC office in November to assemble boxes of ready-to-make Thanksgiving dinners for people in need. Above at left, Linda Hamlin. At right, Hamlin, David Roush, Ann Torgerson and Nina Kuhl. Below, volunteers with Hardt Family Cyclery dropped off 826 pounds of food and $700 in gift cards. Bottom, David Roush in action.
The Board of Directors of GPHC, Inc.
Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. is a volunteer-based registered neighborhood organization that promotes the character and vibrancy of Park Hill, provides resources, information and advocacy, and preserves quality of life and the history of the neighborhood through community participation.
GPHC world headquarters is 2823 Fairfax St. If you have an issue you’d like to discuss about the neighborhood, reach out to your board representative. Representatives can be contacted via the main office, at 303-388-0918 or info@greaterparkhill.org.
If you are interested in volunteering for a board position or serving on a committee, contact GPHC Board Chair Shane Sutherland at chair@greaterparkhill.org.
• Board Chair Shane Sutherland
• Treasurer Heather Shockey
• Secretary Bernadette Kelly
• District 1 Kevin Doyle
• District 2 Brenda Morrison
• District 3 Heather Shockey
• District 4 Currently Vacant
• District 5 Bernadette Kelly
• District 6 Currently Vacant
• District 7 Jon Bowman
• District 8 Nam Henderson
• District 9 Terry Brewick
• District 10 James Korn
• At Large Bruce Campbell
• At Large Mona Estrada
• At Large Maria Flora
• At Large Tracey MacDermott
• At Large Louis Plachowski lplachowski@gmail.com
• At Large Shane Sutherland
• Blessed Sacrament Betsy Boudreau
• Park Hill UMC Jacqui Shumway
Bring your buddies and meet hometown merchants at a dozen neighborhood shops. Sample free specialty wines, bites from local eateries and holiday gift-giving bargains, plus register to win prizes. Support the small businesses who love you!
ColfaxMayfairBID.com
Compiled by Cara DeGette | GPHN Editor
The following are stories ripped from the 1985 headlines of the Greater Park Hill News
January
In the 1980s, city recycling programs were as alien to Denver as cell phones. Yet even back then, Park Hill’s cutting-edge approach to saving the planet was on display. Every month Eco-Cycle of Boulder set up a van in the parking lot of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, at 22nd and Dexter. Neighbors would drop off their paper, glass, aluminum, used motor oil and batteries, to be transported to Boulder for sorting. All told, Park Hillians were recycling 15 tons of newspaper, 3,000 pounds of glass and 150 of aluminum every month. “Without this effort,” noted the newspaper, “all of this material would be useless trash.”
February
In a page 1 story, reporter Kathy Cheever chronicled 26 years of Colorado’s Fair Housing Law. “Since the 1950s Park Hill residents have been in the lead in promoting fair housing, as evidenced by integrated living,” Cheever wrote. “The neighborhood has come a long ways since being known as the headquarters of the Ku Klux Klan in the 1920s. We still have a long way to go.”
March
Lawyers working on the airplane noise lawsuit are seeking volunteers willing to conduct noise level studies, as well as studies on the impacts on health from airplane noise.
April
Readers were urged to celebrate “Down In The Dumps Day” with this helpful instruction: “Just reach down to the ground or street. Pick up a piece of litter. Drop your donation in the trash can nearest you. You can work along or with others. Whatever you do, you’ll hit the jackpot — a clean Denver.” Another opportunity this month is to join the city’s pothole posse. “You can head your favorite pothole to its last roundup. Call the 24-hour Pothole Hotline at 575-3501.”
May
In a massive victory for the people of Park Hill and tranquility of the neighborhood, the City and County of Denver agreed to settle a four-year old lawsuit
over excessive airport noise from Stapleton Airport. Denver agreed to close Stapleton and move the airport to a new location by the year 2000. It also agreed to take steps to limit the noise generated by aircraft landings and departures, among other stipulations. Local volunteer attorneys led the efforts; the plaintiffs included four Park Hill residents.
The second annual Park Hill Day was held at Smiley Junior High. It featured an all-day Pancake Feast, as well as a Fun Run for children under 12, a Diaper Derby for the under 2s, a Water Balloon Toss, Suitcase Race and a Decorated Bike and Trike Parade.
The spotlight is on Park Hill’s Elaine Cheris, founder of the Cheyenne Fencing Society, who was in training to lead the U.S. Team to the World Championships in Barcelona. “Fencing is an absolutely marvelous sport,” Cheris said. “Never boring, but more fun than one could imagine.”
A spike in burglaries across Park Hill has prompted police and community leaders to launch Operation ID and Neighborhood Watch programs. The newspaper reported that, between Jan. 1 and April 22, more than 400 burglaries occurred in the neighborhood, translating to an average of nearly one person victimized on each of Park Hill’s 450 blocks.
“Will you be next?”
Eight unique houses were featured in the 7th annual Park Hill Home Tour. According to organizers, “all homes are vintage Park Hill — the ‘ones I’ve
always wanted to see’ variety.”
This month marks the 25th anniversary of the first issue of the Park Hill Action News. The newspaper of record was later renamed the Greater Park Hill News
At a Greater Park Hill Community meeting, thenMayor Federico Peña discussed several city projects. Noting that Denver is having a tough time keeping up with inflation, Peña said he and other city leaders are pushing hard for a new convention center and airport, supporting rebuilding the Cherry Creek Mall, the development of the South Platte Valley, and other revenue-generating projects.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays from these local businesses, circa 1985:
ads appeared in the December, 1980 issue
Planthoppers are agile insects that, like crabs, can move forwards, backwards and sideways with ease. Both adults and nymphs, like the one pictured here, are powerful jumpers, and they can catapult themselves up to 100 times their body length when disturbed. They are found in nearly every part of the world, but have the highest diversity in tropical and subtropical zones. This nymph planthopper is a member of the Dictyopharidae family, of which there are nearly 760 species. He was photographed in Costa Rica by Park Hill photographer Mark Silverstein.
icicles are daggers of beauty thrown by winter’s
Save the Date! The 2025 Park Hill Garden Walk is June 7. In the meantime, here are some seasonal tips for you and your garden:
• Use burlap to protect fragile plants and wrap the trunks of young trees.
• Check soil moisture levels, and water as needed when temperatures stay above 45 degrees for several hours during the day.
• Inspect trees and shrubs for bark damage.
• Remove snow from plants and tree branches to prevent damage.
• Clean bird baths and feeders every 1-2 weeks with a solution of 50/50 vinegar and water.
• Sharpen and oil pruning tools, clean spray equipment and store in a dry place.
• Decorate for the holidays with garland, wreaths and evergreens.
Monthly tips comes thanks to members of the Park Hill Garden Walk committee. The annual event showcases local gardens and is a major fundraiser for Greater Park Hill Community, Inc. To volunteer, or suggest gardens or artists to feature, please contact Paula Marinelli at paulagardenwalk@gmail.com.
Story and photos by Reid Neureiter | For the GPHN
What is your favorite Colorado waterfall? Many would suggest Telluride’s famous Bridal Vail Falls, which are Colorado’s tallest freefalling falls.
Others may prefer the famous Alberta Falls in the Glacier Gorge area of Rocky Mountain National Park. Some may argue for its sister, Ouzel Falls, in the Wild Basin area of the same park.
The falls on the Crystal River in the west-central Rockies — with the famous century-old Crystal Mill as a backdrop — might be another choice.
What about the hidden Zapata Falls, above the San Luis Valley at 9,400 feet at the end of a short canyon? In winter those falls freeze to mounds of alien-looking shapes. Our friends in Colorado Springs
might argue in favor of the privately-owned Seven Falls, with ladders and steps adjacent leading to a remarkable series of cascades.
I would suggest another candidate: the Western Slope’s Rifle Falls. They are a triple set of roaring falls, created by the rushing waters of East Rifle Creek. These falls are in Rifle Falls State Park, a small Colorado state park 14 miles north of the town of Rifle (which is just off Interstate 70).
The power of Rifle Falls creates a constant mist that nourishes the green moss and lush foliage which covers the limestone rock at the base of the falls. On sunny days, the mist generates rainbows that span the base of the cascade.
Rifle Falls is also uniquely accessible. One can park no more
than 100 yards from the falls themselves, and there are walking paths that go right to the base of the falls and even up to and behind the waters’ raging torrent. There are even limestone caves behind the falls that can be explored by flashlight.
On a recent visit, a park ranger pointed out that the park is open year-round. But winter visitors should bring crampons or other traction devices for their boots, as the mist from the falling water freezes over all the trails, making for a frozen-like experience.
The town of Rifle is 183 miles west of Denver on I-70. For more on Rifle Falls, check out cpw.state.co.us/ state-parks/rifle-falls-state-park.
A daily or annual Colorado State Parks Pass is required for entry.
By Margot K. Vahrenwald, DVM, CVJ | For the GPHN
Trying to come up with a few gifts for the pets or pet lovers on your list?
Hopefully you can find some thing appropriate among the recom mendations of our veterinary elves delving through the many best gift lists for pets for 2025. There were too, too many great ideas to cover all the suggestions, so check out the “best list” links at the end.
For The Felines:
The original Cat Dancer toys can provide endless entertain ment and exercise. They are available on Amazon and also sold by many other retailers. Catnip toys are always a good bet for most cats. Colorado Kitty Pot makes adorable toys such as “Purrsian Pizza” and “Calico Cookie.” They are available on Amazon.
Cat cocoons, special beds and scratching posts are also great fun gifts for felines.
For The Dogs:
Dog parks and doggy playdates can be dirty and sometimes smelly. No-rinse shampoo can clean and freshen up the pets without the hassle of bathtub
egory from Burt’s Bees, Pet-Pourri (the makers of Poo-Pourri), Arm & Hammer and others can be found on Amazon and Chewy. Poop happens and must be picked up. Do it in style with compostable bags inspired by the former “thank you” retail bags
Chew toys stuffed with favorite treats are also real dog-pleasers. These toys entertain the pets while tempering the speed with which the treats are consumed. Even better are dental chew treats – Greenies or Woof Bite-n-Brush. You can find lots of choices on Amazon, Chewy and
We love them, but some-
times our pets create unpleasant smells. Pet Odor Exterminator candles can clear smells — and they come in a broad array of scents, from holiday specials to Bamboo Breeze. Available at Park Hill Vet, Amazon and
How to Speak Ca t and How to Speak Dog card sets can be great stocking stuffers from Uncommongoods.com. The games give insight into body language, special woofs and meows, and more.
For human kids, a personalized sweet bed-time story about what would happen if they and their pet could have a conversation. From uncommongoods.com. Other personalized pet stories are also available.
You can never have too many hooks to hang bags and clothing. Check out Evelots Cat Over Door Hooks from Amazon to find one perfect for your cat-loving friends. The dog lovers in your life might find a use for yoga Frenchies’ hook.
Etsy has some amazing options for custom pet portraits, including digital downloads or prints delivered in frames for instant hanging. Search “custom pet portrait” to bring up a myriad of choices.
At its core, the holiday season is about love and family, including the amazing bond with our pet(s). May each and every one of you enjoy a wonderful holiday season with these special fur friends.
Dr. Margot Vahrenwald is the owner of Park Hill Veterinary Medical Center at 2255 Oneida St. For more information, visit parkhillvet.com
Gift Ideas For The Naughty & Nice
nymag.com/strategist/article/best-gifts-for-cat-lovers nymag.com/strategist/article/best-gifts-for-dog-lovers oprahdaily.com/life/g29722655/gifts-for-dog-lovers oprahdaily.com/life/g34450386/gifts-for-cat-lovers thesprucepets.com/best-christmas-gifts-for-dogs-and-dog-lovers
Claus takes the District to court over ‘North Pole’ name.
BY IKE L. MUSKE Cherry Creek North | Denver, CO
Another local shopping area is under scrutiny for a rebranding misstep. This time, Cherry Creek North (no, not the mall, the district) is the one getting grilled for its new name, or, more accurately roasted like a chestnut.
The shopping district unveiled a new name and slogan, “Cherry Creek North Pole—The Best Place on Earth for The Holidays,” as part of its seasonal marketing campaign. Which, for a place with the area’s best dining, shopping, and festive events, seems appropriate to this editorial board. But not everyone is celebrating.
Alistair Peppermintwist, Esq. of the Fa La La Law Group and Senior Elfin Counsel to Santa Claus, has issued ceaseand-desist letters to the district, claiming the rebrand infringes on intellectual property tied to Santa and the North Pole’s brand.
“The name and use of the North Pole have been trademarked by Mr. Saint Nicholas Claus for centuries,” Peppermintwist said in a phone interview. “Cherry Creek North’s claim that it is the best place on earth for the holidays is verging on libel. That designation is lawfully reserved for Mr. Claus. Second best? Well, their holiday lights were impressive. But BEST?! C’mon, nothing touches Santa’s holiday magic.”
When pushed further, Peppermintwist jingled a bell into the phone and hung up.
Without infringing on our journalistic duties, we would have to agree with the elf lawyer—Cherry Creek North’s holiday lights are impressive, along with their premier hotels, restaurants, boutiques, and spas.
Certainly, it’s the best place in Denver for the holidays. Though, in an effort to avoid the Naughty List, we will concede that it’s difficult to compete with real holiday magic.
Peppermintwist filed an injunction earlier this week and held a press conference outside the courthouse demanding a formal response from the district. As of press time, Cherry Creek North has not issued a statement.
The elfin attorney also took to social media to apply public pressure, while the district has continued with its schedule of festive holiday events including Saturday Night Lights, a dance party meets holiday magic (December 6th, 13th, & 20th), and its Holiday Market featuring local makers.
While the legal dispute continues, visitors to Cherry Creek North (Pole™) can expect the annual display of good cheer, one million lights, and seasonal programming to go on as planned.
Immaculate 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment. Pictures and details on Zillow. $1950/mo. 1523 Ivy Street #6 Available! Be home by Christmas! Patty Bishop 970-275-1575
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
26 YR Licensed General Contractor in South Park Hill and Lead-Based Paint Abatement Firm
All Phases of Remodeling. Small jobs OK! Mold and Mildew Remediation Power Spray Denver Dust, Off Exteriors
Call Mark-303-921-3161 pikerprojects@gmail.com – All Remodeling usabatement@yahoo.com
GUTTERS
Gutter Cleaning, repairs, and replacement. Gutter Cleaning prices start at $150 – House, Garage, Porches, and walks. 303-9079223/skmehaffey@gmail.com
MASONRY SERVICES
Mason – Brick, stone, chimney repair, historic renovation. Your Park Hill Expert. Fully Insured, free estimates. Call Ben @720670-0874
Masonry Services — Brick, Stone, Concrete repairs, restoration, tuckpointing, chimneys, retaining walls, city sidewalks; planter boxes. 303-907-9223/ skmehaffey@gmail.com
PAINTING
Interior and Exterior Painting. Prep, power washing, professional. Owned and operated by Park Hill resident with over 20 years of experience. Free estimate. JR Painting 720-4857207 or jpabz04@gmail.com
Painting: Interior, exterior, small jobs welcome; sheetrock repairs and texture. 303-9079223/ skmehaffey@gmail.com
PLASTER
We repair plaster and drywall, specializing in older homes. Now in our 27th year. The Wall Rebuilders 303-698-1057 www.wallrebuilders.com
ROOFING
Roofing: Repairs, Inspections, Flashings, Hail Damage, and reroofing licensed, bonded, and insured. Gutter replacement and cleaning. 303-907-9223/ skmehaffey@gmail.com
TUCKPOINTING
Over 25 years of experience. Fully insured. Mortar color and brick matching, broken brick replacement, cement chimney crown replacement. 12 years Chicago union experience. Mr. Chimney and Home Masonry Repair. Call Chuck Bahnsen 303-948-7999
VOLUNTEER
Be a Local Hero — Volunteer with Greater Park Hill News! We rely on volunteers to distribute the newspaper each month. Distributing the paper means “adopting” a block and delivering the newspaper to each home. It’s a great activity for families \ to do together, and takes just about 15 minutes. Interested in supporting your community newspaper and helping to get the news out? Contact us at newspaper@greaterparkhill.org or visit greaterparkhill.org/newspaper for more information and to sign up.
WINDOWS
Complete wood window restoration. Custom wood storm windows and screens. General painting, restoration and handyman services for your charming old home. Contact Matt 479-871-8140
Active Minds
The organization’s mission is to expand lives and minds by providing outstanding educational programs. Check out free lectures on topics ranging from music to history, current events to foreign affairs, including in and near Park Hill. A schedule of upcoming events is at activeminds.com Art Garage
6100 E. 23rd Ave., artgaragedenver.com, 303-377-2353. The Art Garage is a nonprofit visual art community center whose mission is to offer arts-based programs that inspire, empower and promote creative self-expression by people of all ages, backgrounds, and ability levels. Check out ArtGarageDenver.com for details.
Blunders and Beers
Blunders and Beers is a Park Hill Chess Club that meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at Longtable Brewhouse, 2895 Fairfax St., beginning at 6 p.m. All skill levels are welcome. Bring a board if you have one.
Daughters of the American Revolution
Are you interested in genealogy? Your family history? American history? The Frances Wisebart Jacobs Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution meets regularly in the area. Contact Kathy Kelly at kkellyfwj76@gmail.com for details.
Denver Police District 2
3921 Holly St., 2.Dist@denvergov.org, non-emergency number is 720-913-1000. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1.
Denver Public Schools
dpsk12.org
Check the website for resources and updates. Call the helpline at 720-423-3054 for support in many languages.
Donations Resources
Thousands of our neighbors have been living unsheltered and are struggling for basic services. Thousands more are newcomers to Colorado, arriving with little to nothing. So many can use your help. Check out our online directory at greaterparkhill.org/spreading-the-love/ for organizations who accept donations — from clothes and furniture to bikes and baby essentials.
Faith Community
greaterparkhill.org/faith
Greater Park Hill’s faith community, home to over 30 places of worship in just four square miles, is as diverse and robust as the neighborhood itself. The GPHN maintains a list of Park Hill’s places of worship at the website above. Contact individual places of worship for information about their current state of operations.
Greater Park Hill Community, Inc.
2823 Fairfax St., greaterparkhill.org, 303-388-0918
Under Greater Park Hill Community listing, correct the blurb to this: GPHC community meetings are conducted on the first Thursday of the month, except for December and July. The next meeting is Thursday, Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at 2823 Fairfax St. Check greaterparkhill. org/join-us/community-meetings/ for info on how to participate.
Libraries
denverlibrary.org
See the “At the Library” feature on page 16 for updates and resources offered by the Park Hill and Pauline Robinson branch libraries.
Northeast Park Hill Coalition
The Northeast Park Hill Coalition hosts its monthly meeting the second Thursdays of the month. Location varies. Check the group’s Facebook page @ Northeast Park Hill Coalition for updates.
Park Hill Community Bookstore
Established in 1971. Denver’s oldest nonprofit bookstore. Used and new books. 4620 E. 23rd Avenue. 303-355-8508. Members and volunteers get discounts and book credits. Open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Park Hill Peloton
A recreational group of road cyclists that roll from Park Hill once or twice a week. Check the current status of their rides on the Park Hill Peloton Facebook page. Sie Filmcenter 2510 E. Colfax, denverfilm.org, 303-595-3456.
Free Zoom Tai Chi
Free Beginner Tai Chi Zoom
Classes every Friday at 9 a.m. Longtime Park Hillers Jacqui and Joe lead the class. Call their clinic at 303-744-766 or register online at TaiChiDenver.com. Walk2Connect www.walk2connect.com
Park Hill Sunrise Walking Trips happen every Tuesday from 7:15 a.m. to 8:15 a.m. Meet in front of Honey Hill Cafe at 23rd & Dexter Street for a casual, conversational-paced community walk. Everyone is welcome.
Submit your neighborhood events and resources to editor@greaterparkhill.org Deadlines are the 15th of the month, for the following month’s issue.
