IN OUR OCTOBER EDITION ~ Where we've been, where we're going
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A look at the past, present and future of Southeast Colorado Springs
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MANY VOICES ... ONE COMMUNITY • VOL. 1, ISSUE 4
To Harvard and beyond Councilor Avila dishes on elite training experience By Faith Miller
The Southeast Express
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ast month, Southeast’s City Councilor Yolanda Avila attended a prestigious leadership training program at Harvard University. She had the backing of a competitive grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which paid her tuition. In all, 55 local government leaders from around the country (along with three people from Ireland) made up Avila’s cohort to Harvard’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program. While Avila was the only city councilor from Colorado who attended, she says there were a handful of county commissioners who hailed from other parts of the state, along with a Colorado lawmaker and school board member. Avila couldn’t share all the details about the program — she says some moments are confidential, because leaders were encouraged to tell personal stories. But the enthusiasm she exudes when recalling the training, and when musing on the future of Southeast, suggests a life-changing three weeks. This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. What are your general thoughts on the training? What was it like? It was an intense program that challenged me intellectually, emotionally and physically. I’ve heard of other people saying that they’re going to go and they think it’s a conference, and then they’re just going to kick back
for redevelopment]. And with some of the tools that I’ve gained from the class, I can see it coming to fruition.
in the evening. Not the case at all. What was really great about this program was that it consisted of persons who are in public service — whether that’s an elected official, ... that’s a chief of staff, or a city manager, or a chief of police, chief of fire. We had department heads of sanitation from New York, people that worked in public utilities, with different political and philosophical persuasions. During the whole course of this training, we were given exercises, or circumstances that we were required to do as a group, and if we couldn’t come to a consensus or an understanding as a group, then the whole group would fail. So it taught me how to work with persons who think the exact opposite of how I do. And there were groups that were never able to come to consensus, and therefore did not finish exercises. But it was fun, too. ... There was a part there where we did singing as a course, where we learned to harmonize together.
Do you know what area in your district there might be some possibility for that? Well, we have an opportunity zone [an area designated for tax incentives to draw long-term investment], off of Academy and Fountain [boulevards]. That would be a practical place to put it. Was there anything you learned that changed your perspective on our local government here? Mostly, I’d like all of my colleagues to attend this program — so that we can work more as a team, because there’s team building. And what I would like to see with City Council is for the nine of us to have a retreat where we could go and have that team building, and really understand where we are, where we’re each coming from. As it is right now, I do feel like we have a respect [for] one another. But taking it to a different level ... we can help each other get what it is we want for our districts, our constituents. So do you feel more inspired now and excited, or are you also a little tired? It gave me like, a shot in the arm, but I feel inspired. I feel like I was with a high caliber of individuals that wanted to do the best they could do ... to learn and to go back to give to their community. I wanted to learn, and I did — I learned a lot. And to come back and be able to serve my community in even a broader capacity.
Do you feel like you’ll keep communicating with some of the people you met there? Absolutely. I know that I have made some lifelong friends. One of the projects that I think this has helped me with is, I want to get an Urban Renewal Authority project in my district [to provide tax increment financing
faith@csindy.com
Inside the investment
INSIDE Leading Latina page 10
How Harrison School District 2 won a $180 million victory … and what comes next By Regan Foster
The Southeast Express
On a medical mission page 14
O
n a warm July morning, reggae-infused beats blasted from a classroom corridor at the growing Sand Creek International School. But what else should you expect, given that the song emanated from the general direction of the elementary building’s music room? Outside, however, it was a different auditory experience. The hum of traffic zipping along nearby Airport Road mixed with the rumbling of heavy construction equipment, the ping of hand-held tools and the baritone of Kevin McCullough’s voice, as he chatted with crew about the exterior brick wall they were putting into place on a 30,000-square-foot addition. McCullough is a superintendent with Bryan Construction, which, along with Nunn Construction, is renovating Harrison School District 2’s campuses. Overhauls range in scope from comparatively simple mechanical upgrades to the replacement of Carmel Middle School. Continued as VICTORY page 6
Coyote's howl page 15
EXPRESS PHOTO/REGAN FOSTER
A Nunn Construction worker (far right) upgrades lighting inside the Centennial Elementary School office in July.
Ready to run
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AUGUST — SEPTEMBER 2019
New to the District? Enroll Online Now
Welcome to the 2019-2020 School Year Dear D2 Community: Welcome to the 2019 – 2020 school year! We are excited to continue this journey with you as the Superintendents for Harrison School District Two. Our nineteen square mile community is home to wonderful people, businesses, culture and diversity. It is also home to our 20 schools, Homeschool Academy, and two charter school systems. Together our schools serve close to 12,000 students in preschool through 12th grade. The southeast Colorado Springs community has experienced great growth and improvement through a shared vision of community residents, thriving businesses, elected officials, municipal, and nonprofit partners. Harrison School District Two has been working to support the area with a high-quality education system. We want to partner with the community to educate our children, employ our community, and offer our schools as community hubs.
What can District Two offer you?
• Free school supplies K-8 and free laptop for high school • Free breakfast and lunch, athletics, transportation, and tutoring • Free AP classes and AP tests • Earn free college credits • Earn your associates degree while still in high school • Earn your high school degree and a free trade certification Enroll online at www.hsd2.org. Required documents to complete registration from the parent/guardian: birth certificate, immunization record, current lease agreement or mortgage or current utility bill in their name. Visit Student Support online at www.hsd2.org/studentsupport for more information.
This year we will focus on three core beliefs: • All students are capable of excellence • Our purpose is to maximize student success • The well-being of our students, staff, families, and community is worthy of our investment You can expect to see us continue to strive for great classroom instruction while also caring for the whole child and the unique needs each child has. Community partners are highly valued in our district and will be carefully selected to support our core beliefs. We are excited to keep you informed on the progress of our Bond construction and building improvements that you the voters approved last November. Three of our schools had major renovations this summer. The middle school wing addition at Sand Creek International School is progressing. An additional three schools are enjoying the first phase of their pending updates. The Bond progress will continue to be reported via the Southeast Express, our website, social media, and by periodic public tours. We are honored by your support at the polls and will bring you transparent updates over the next four years of our improvements. We value our students, families, staff, and community. Together we are Harrison and we invite you to be a part of our local school district. Download our free app, visit our website, follow us on social media, and share your thoughts on Let’s Talk!. Attend our athletic events, concerts, plays and musicals! Visit the HSD2 page in this paper or check out our website for additional opportunities to engage with us. We are your leaders and honored to serve D2. We are Harrison! Dr. Wendy Birhanzel & John Rogerson Superintendents
Harrison School District Two 1060 Harrison Road Colorado Springs, CO 80905 719-579-2000 www.hsd2.org
Join us on
Upcoming Events August 3, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Back2School Event • Mission Trace Shopping Center August 8 First Day of School August 15, 6:00 p.m. Board of Education Meeting Administration Building
Do you have a preschooler? Enroll your qualifying preschooler in Preschool with CPCD/Head Start. Visit www. cpcdheadstart.org for more information.
Every school will be hosting back to school events. Check your school’s website calendar for the latest schedule.
Late Start Mondays for All Schools Harrison School District Two is making a change to our Monday elementary schedule for the 2019-2020 school year. We are moving to a late start on Mondays for all of our schools. Historically, our district had an elementary early release on Mondays. This early release allowed our school staff to hold professional learning communities. Our secondary schools have always had a late start on Mondays for the same purpose. Next year, we are moving to a late start across the board so that our teachers have the ability to work together and transportation challenges with bussing are minimized.
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Dazed
Xxxx Time to gear up as summer winds on
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say this every year at this time, but, “Wow! Really? Already?” Didn’t class just let out for summer a few days ago? And now here we stand Regan Foster again, poised and ready for our schools to throw wide their doors and students to Regan Foster trundle in with various degrees of enthusiasm. Instead of “no more classes, no more books,” it’s almost time for “no more downtime, no more games.” In my (much) younger days, I would look toward the start of the school year with a mix of excitement and trepidation. I had the good fortune to travel quite a bit during the summers, so school meant the chance to reunite with friends and once again pursue my passion for music, theater and musical theater. It meant expanding my mind and learning about new and interesting things. And algebra … I also learned about algebra. But I have to admit, xx years (actual number redacted to protect the innocent) after finishing my post-graduate work, I miss that sense of excitement. Which is why I’m a little envious this year of the students and teachers at Harrison School District 2. You see, the district is in the throes of the $180 million facility overhaul that you, Southeast, approved via vote last November. Renovating each of the district’s campuses is expected to take six years, but work began in earnest at Otero and Centennial elementaries as well as Sand Creek International School almost as soon as the last students left the buildings. (In fact, some
work began before the academic ended.) Mountain Vista Community School, Sierra High and Fox Meadow Middle School also got some TLC over the summer months. Does that mean all students are going to be walking into shiny, new buildings? Not at this point. Does it mean they will be walking into safe, up-to-date facilities that are ready for learning? Absolutely. And that’s all because of you. As a community, Southeast recognized the need to invest in its future — not just for a year or even five down the road, but for the next generation. And that deserves commendation. It’s not outside the realm of possibility that a student who returns to his or her freshly renovated school this year may be inspired to come back a decade or so from now and take the helm in that same classroom. Just ask Sierra football Head Coach Draye Ersery. The three-sport Sierra athlete and alumnus of the class of 2005 returned to his alma mater last season to turn around the program. “I care about this school,” he told Express intern Lily Reavis for a story on the cover of our sports section (see page 18). “These guys are actually trying. There’s an honest effort here to change character.” And that really sums up the undertakings of the district as a whole. Good schools are critical to the character of a healthy community, and Southeast has some shining stars. Granted, there is still plenty of work — both physical and academic — to be done, but thanks to your vote of confidence, progress is
Covering 80916 & 80910
under way. Please join us as we go back to school, and stick with us as we continue to keep a watchful eye on your school district, its renovations and all that come with them. *** Now for a few bookkeeping matters. First, we are delighted to welcome Nohea March to the Express team. Nohea will be hitting the streets of Southeast, her home community, and helping businesses, nonprofits and local organizations build marketing campaigns and spread the word via our pages. So if you run across our newest Expresser with her big, friendly grin, stop and say hi. And, as we are constantly growing, don’t hesitate to reach out to her for help creating a marketing plan that will get your business before an estimated 80,000 readers. Nohea can be contacted at 719-329-5217 or nohea.march@southeastexpress.org. Lastly, we at the Express are seeking the help of a few good citizens. We need 25 volunteer community ambassadors who would be game to answer a quick survey with each edition and to spread the word about the paper within your community. We promise we won’t take too much of your time; but as we continue to grow and develop, it’s important that the Express continues to meet our readers’ expectations. To learn more or to volunteer, feel free to drop me a call or an email. I look forward to working with you!
We truly want to be he newspaper of,
for and by Southeast Colorado Springs.
Contact Southeast Express Editor and General Manager Regan Foster at (719) 578-2802 or regan.foster@southeastexpress.org.
WE WELCOME YOUR OPINIONS The Southeast Southeast Express Express accepts accepts The letters toto the the editor. editor. letters To submit submit an an opinion opinion for for To consideration, email email consideration, regan.foster@southeastexpress.org; regan.foster@southeastexpress.org; or call call Regan Regan Foster Foster atat 578-2802. 578-2802. or The Express Express reserves reserves the the right right toto The determine suitability. suitability. determine Copyright©2019, ©2019,all allrights rightsreserved. reserved. Copyright
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Editor and General Manager REGAN FOSTER Editor and General Manager News Reporter REGAN FOSTER FAITH MILLER Senior Consultant NewsMELLINI Intern LOU LILY REAVIS Senior Account Executive Senior Consultant JAMIELOU ROMERO-AGRUSA MELLINI Account Executives Senior Account Executive ADAMS JAMIELANNY ROMERO-AGRUSA JASON JANC Account Executives DANIELLE ROGGE LANNY ADAMS Graphic Designers JASON JANC ROWDY NOHEATOMPKINS MARCH MELISSA EDWARDS ZK BRADLEY Graphic Designers ROWDYOutreach TOMPKINS Community Director MELISSA EDWARDS MANNY LOPEZ DEL RIO ZK BRADLEY
COLORADO PUBLISHING PUBLISHING HOUSE HOUSE COLORADO Chair Chair JOHN WEISS WEISS JOHN Executive Editor Editor Emeritus Emeritus Executive RALPH ROUTON ROUTON RALPH
Advertising inin the the 30,000-plus 30,000-plus circulation circulation Southeast Southeast Express Express isis an an incredibly incredibly effi efficient cient way way for for your your Advertising business businessororcivic civicorganization organizationtotoreach reachevery everysingle singlehome homeand andbusiness businessininthe the80910 80910and and80916 80916ZIP ZIP codes. For a no-obligation conversation with our advertising team, director, callJamie Nohea Mach at 719-329-5217. call or text Agrusa-Romero at 719-200-8787.
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AUGUST — SEPTEMBER 2019
A new partnership
Pikes Peak Community Foundation and Southeast Colorado Springs By Will Forrest, Abbas Hasan, Isabelle McGoey, Caitlin Nygren and Nisarg Shah
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olorado Springs is a city on the rise. As it furthers its identity as Olympic City USA and a home for military families, people are flocking to the Pikes Peak region. With rapid population growth, Colorado Springs will experience both economic and social diversity - diversity already seen in the city. Southeast Colorado Springs is an engaged and passionate community where the residents actively participate in the future of their neighborhoods. It is not beholden to the reputation or stereotype it has been subject to in recent years. The people of Southeast know what they need and are compelled to create their own change. Over the past eight weeks, we have seen this engagement and recognize the potential that Southeast Colorado Springs possesses. We are five Morehead-Cain scholars from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This summer, we collaborated with the Pikes Peak Community Foundation (PPCF), a philanthropic organization working to transform wealth into community capital for the Pikes Peak Region. For the past eight weeks, PPCF tasked us to explore more intentional collaboration between the community foundation and Southeast. Coming in to this community, we were quickly introduced to the current momentum and efforts in Southeast. In our first week in Colorado Springs, we attended a Resilient, Inspired, Strong, Engaged (RISE) Coalition meeting at Solid Rock Church. There, we were introduced to many of the organizations working within Southeast, like Generation Wild and the Matthews-Vu medical providers. We met community leaders, like Pastor Ben Anderson and Joyce Salazar. The energy and commitment we observed in this meeting made us even more excited to meet others. After our initial introduction, we learned more about Southeast from those who know the community best. We visited the Hillside and Deerfield Hills community centers and explored the area with the
MISSION
COURTESY PHOTO
(From left): Abbas Hasan, Isabelle McGoey, Nisarg Shah, Caitlin Nygren and Will Forest.
founder of Hillside Connection, Terrell Brown. Our tour included meeting Jody Derington and Joan Clemons, as well as a visit to the very popular and delicious Amy’s Donuts. Additionally, we attended the third Meet Me in the Park event, coordinated by the RISE Coalition to gauge interest in and receive input on the renovation of Panorama Park. There, we engaged with Southeast residents and met State Rep. Tony Exum (D-Colorado Springs), who shared his passion for the Southeast community. We attended one of Taj Stokes’ THRIVE Network classes and spoke with some of the entrepreneurs enrolled in his course. From this, our group and PPCF were better able to understand the neighborhood climate. The community foundation’s current role in the Southeast is primarily focused on administering the Transforming Safety Initiative (TSI) funds. TSI supports many of the prominent organizations implementing programs in Southeast, including the Deerfield Hills Community Center, Council of Neighbors and Orga-
nizations (CONO) and Solid Rock Community Development Corp. Other philanthropic investors, like the El Pomar Foundation and The Colorado Health Foundation, also fund efforts in Southeast. Partners of the RISE Coalition are some of the largest benefactors of these funds. Additionally, the Colorado Trust invests funds in the Hillside neighborhood and some Hillside organizations also receive funding from Transforming Safety. However, the funding from TSI and other foundations is set to expire in a few years. PPCF acknowledges this impending funding cliff and recognizes the value of these programs in Southeast. The Community Foundation recently added Mina Liebert as its director of community impact. Liebert has been working closely with organizations within the Southeast for several years and was instrumental in bringing together the RISE Coalition. Our group was tasked to help PPCF understand the timeline for change and consider the possibilities for longer-term funding mecha-
nisms for the Southeast. The Community Foundation understands that Southeast residents are capable of making the change that their community needs. Rather than looking to help Southeast find its voice, PPCF is attempting to uplift the existing forces in the region through a philanthropic lens. Following successful national models, PPCF is looking for innovative ways to fund and encourage the development of Southeast for Southeast residents. While our eight weeks here in Colorado Springs is coming to a close, PPCF’s work in the Southeast is just beginning. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside community leaders and to have been welcomed into the Colorado Springs community. Morehead-Cain scholars undertake summer enrichment programs that include outdoor leadership, civic collaboration, global perspectives and professional experience. Programs are designed to teach scholars about the world in which they live and how they can positively affect it.
To inform, celebrate, educate, empower and challenge the 80,000 vibrant and diverse residents of Southeast Colorado Springs.
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High
FIVE A park with a view also has a vision.
The Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation Advisory Board gave its unanimous blessing to the Panorama Park Master Plan on July 11. The vote brings to a close a two-year planning process that brought together a coalition of community partners, including the city Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department, the multi-agency RISE Coalition, the Trust for Public Land, a slew of community members, a 13-member Youth Advisory Council, recreation advocates and enthusiasts, landscape architects and park-design specialists, among others. It also means the overhauled park could be open for play in 2021. This is a big deal! So big, in fact, that we’re dedicating this High Five to this major accomplishment! The master plan re-envisions the 13.5-acre, mostly underdeveloped park as a shade-dappled oasis with rolling lawns, a tournament-sized soccer field, a playground, a workout area, basketball courts, a skate park, a pavilion, picnic benches with built-in umbrellas, walking and bicycle trails and an estimated 200 new trees. The park will be totally ADA-accessible, Principal Landscape Architect Jesse Clark told the board. His company, Stream Landscape Architecture + Planning, spearheaded the design process. To check out an artist’s rendering, visit coloradosprings.gov/panoramapark. The master plan has roots in an intensive fact-finding mission that included two open houses, three parties in the park, 10 meetings with area stakeholders, countless hours going door-to-door, hundreds of digital and written surveys and at least one organized bicycle ride. The 13 youth council members – Jonathan Bradley, Dertavion Hayes, Deshaun Hill, Ty Kyra Lancaster, Anthony Orellana, Aliyah Parra, Ketrin Plumber, Nathan Ramirez, Temesha Tucker, Ryan Rhoads, Sophia Rhoads and Christian Vigil — played a crucial role in the project. They collected surveys, spoke at gatherings and, according to Tucker, even served
WE ARE PROUD TO
WELCOME
NOHEA MARCH
TO THE SOUTHEAST EXPRESS
BECOME A CHARTER ADVERTISER TODAY AND REACH
30,000 Southeast homes and businesses.
For a no-obligation conversation with our new account executive, call or email Nohea March at 719-329-5217 or nohea.march@southeastexpress.org.
COURTESY PHOTO/ALLEN BEAUCHAMP
Members of the Panorama Park Youth Advisory Committee celebrate after a bicycle ride through Southeast and to the park.
hotdogs to engage the neighborhood. In all, 1,400 fans of the park shared their thoughts, wishes and opinions. “The engagement of Panorama Park has truly been a community effort,” said Emily Patterson, director of the Trust for Public Land’s Parks for People Program. “Not only is this park a physical space, it’s doing something for our community, for our residents, for our youth,” said Joyce Salazar, El Paso County Public Health community outreach coordinator and RISE chief. “It’s so much more than just a playground, a swing set, a slide. It’s really bringing us together. — Regan Foster To submit an item for the High Five, email a detailed description of the event, including date and location, and photos with identifying information from left to right to features@southeastexpress.org. For more information, call Regan Foster at 719-578-2802.
BACK-2-SCHOOL Physicals • Wellness Exams • Immunizations • Dental Screenings • Children age 6-12 receive a FREE backpack & school supplies* • Children age 13-18 receive a giftcard* or a FREE backpack & school supplies*
*While supplies last.
Call (719) 632-5700 to schedule your appointment! Peak Vista Community Health Centers
Please bring your child’s shot records & school physical forms from your district. To become a Peak Vista patient, please call Enrollment Services at (719) 632-5700.
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Victory
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The work is funded via a $180 million bond issue that district voters endorsed, 10,172-6,994, last November. It is expected to take six years, with the bulk of the renovations happening during summer breaks. When work wraps in 2024, every school will have enhanced safety and security, fully ADA-accessible facilities, more efficient lighting and mechanical systems, and the capacity to serve not just as community schools but also as community hubs. The district’s plan further includes improvements to its charter schools. “It’s this that will make our district grow,” Harrison Co-Superintendent John Rogerson said. “It’s a fresh start. A fresh look at how we’re doing things.” The 2018 win was the first tax increase district voters had approved since 2001. It is expected to cost the average homeowner $15 per month in additional property taxes, or roughly $180 per year. In a community where the decision can sometimes be to put fuel in the tank or food on the table, what was the tipping point this time around? The answer lays in a multipronged, mission-forward “vote yes” campaign that got a significant boost from a wealthy Colorado Springs businessman, the foundation his family launched and a savvy political organizer. But it mostly lays in the school district’s footprint. “The community has voted to invest in itself,” Rogerson said.
In the beginning …
To fully understand the condition of the district’s campuses, Rogerson said, you have to understand its funding mechanism. Public education is financed through a complicated mix of federal, state and local tax dollars, and the district’s 2019-20 budget shows 81.2 percent of its general fund revenues are projected to come from the state. Local property taxes are expected to account for 13.8 percent — roughly $16.4 million — of the district’s revenues in the coming academic year. Here’s where things get a bit tricky: Colorado laws impact how much a school or other taxing district can levy from its local base — and what percentage may come from residential properties versus commercial, agricultural or industrial. The governmental units are required to establish a particular millage, or more simply put, the tax rate. The millage is levied against the assessed value of each property to determine how much goes to each governmental body. In the early 2000s, property values were on the rise — and so, too, were the dollars coming in. With the economic collapse of 2008, prop-
erty values plummeted. Naturally, when the values crashed, so did the amount of tax money each district could collect. In addition, starting in 2009, the Colorado Legislature applied something that was then known as the negative factor (now the budget stabilization factor). This formula allowed the Legislature to ratchet down its school finance formula … to the tune of a cumulative $108 million drop over the course of 11 years, according to the district’s 2019-20 budget. And that meant a drastic need to reprioritize where the limited money was spent, Rogerson said. Things like capital improvements, repairs and routine maintenance were shoved to the back burner. “Prior to that we had great plans for ongoing maintenance,” Rogerson said. “When the recession hit in 2008, money was cut across the state and we lost millions of dollars.” On Aug. 30, 2018, faced with the reality of aging campuses, the Harrison board of education voted, 5-0, to put the measure on the November ballot. That gave the schools’ advocates a little more than two months to sway voter opinion in favor of the tax increase. ‘’Politically I would probably be the strongest adversary of raising taxes, spending public funds, in the world,” Board President Steve Seibert said at that time . “I would have to convince myself before I would ask anyone else to be a part of this, and through much deliberation, work with the board and staff … from my own personal standpoint, all the negatives I would have had against this have been eliminated.” Seibert also said he was excited to work with the Legacy Institute, Opportunity Harrison and the district’s charter schools on the initiative.
Partnering up
To look at the Legacy Institute website is to take a who’s who tour of Colorado Springs community development and education efforts, especially as they pertain to Southeast. The nonprofit — launched by community benefactor Margo Lane and helmed by her son, Culebra Properties Managing Director Philip Lane — includes in its portfolio: • The new Concrete Couch campus in Hillside; • Colorado Springs Food Rescue’s healthful food production, distribution and education hub, also in Hillside; • The successful, $42 million-peryear mill levy override campaign for Colorado Springs School District 11; and • Investing in the growth of Southeast’s Atlas Preparatory School. Opportunity Harrison, the “vote
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"It’s this that will make our district grow. It’s a fresh start.” – Harrison School District 2 Co-Superintendent John Rogerson
EXPRESS PHOTO/REGAN FOSTER
Bryan Construction crew members install the exterior wall on the new Sand Creek International middle school building.
yes” committee that helped push the district’s tax increase across the finish line, was the foundation’s third major educational endeavor. The Legacy Institute infused the committee with $43,200, according to state election records. The IRS forbids nonprofit organizations from participating in candidate campaign. However, it allows groups such as the institute to take on nonpartisan voter-education activities like hosting public forums, publishing voter education guides, and conducting voter registration and get-out-the-vote drives. Colorado election laws did not, in 2018, limit how much a business could contribute to ballot measures. In addition to money, the Legacy Institute brought aboard Anthony Carlson. In November 2017, he helmed Friends of District 11, the committee steering that district’s mill levy override campaign. “Every kid deserves an equal chance at a quality education,” said Carlson. “Looking around at the landscape, we had realized that as tough as the situation was at D11, for their neighbors down in Harrison, the kids … face very similar circumstances. “Our community is only going to grow and it’s only going to be as strong as the schools." Harrison is home to 11,708 students, and D11’s census figures showed 27,161 kids as of May. “Those two districts serve close to 40,000 kids,” Carlson said. “They’re important not just from the point of view of educating kids and making sure kids have a chance, they’re important to the success of the [city].”
Full-court press
Carlson brought with him a smallbut-strong team, but the challenge remained: Opportunity Harrison had to convince an economically redeveloping and, with its large military population, transitory community to make a long-term investment in its schools. For that, they threw open the school doors … so to speak. Every promotional item — from the direct-mail fliers to the TV commercials
to the opportunity Harrison website — featured local students. “There were no models,” Carlson said. “We made sure we told the stories of those students, not the story of financial need.” And that put a very human face on the tax. “Especially with elections, it can feel dehumanizing in a way," Carlson said. "Our message was to shine a light on the beautiful things that we can do together.” To really drive that home, a volunteer team of community members, educators, building administrators, parents and students some 150 strong hit the streets. They went door-to-door, talking with homeowners about the issue and asking them to support renovated schools. “This wasn’t a few folks in the room sending mail or making phone calls,” Carlson said. “It was a real community effort to get people talking.”
New ground The ballot question approved in November caps the tax increase at $16.2 million per year and included the creation of a citizens oversight committee to review and report to the public on the use of the funds. It was all designed to ensure accountability above and beyond the district board of education and administrative leadership, Rogerson said. “We are being very transparent about looking at budgets and where we’re spending and where every dollar should go,” he said. “The trust that the community put in to do this is tremendous and we must honor that." Back at Sand Creek International, things are definitely growing, physically and academically. The school was one of two selected to be grown from an elementary-only to a K-8 campus. Soaring Eagles will get the same treatment starting in 2022, according to the district time line. “When the bond was passed, it was a great vote of confidence from the community,” Rogerson said. “I get to do some amazing things with it.” regan.foster@southeastexpress.org
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'Feminist in progress'
Emma Tang, 17, is already changing the cyber world. She says she has further to go. By Lily Reavis
The Southeast Express
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mma Tang is a self-professed “feminist in progress.” Although she has spent the past three years participating in political debates, growing her online advocacy network and planning her 2040 presidential campaign, the 17-year-old firmly believes that she will never stop learning how to best fill the ever-changing role of a feminist leader. In 2016, even though she wasn’t old enough to vote, Tang stayed up-to-date with election news, and she found herself frustrated by what she heard. So she launched an online account titled Intersectional.ABC as a place to discuss her political opinions and outrage. The acronym in Intersectional.ABC stands for “American-Born Chinese,” an homage to Tang’s identity as a first-generation Taiwanese-American with Chinese ethnicity. The presence has amassed some 37,800 followers on Instagram and pushed Tang’s unique version of female-empowerment and advocacy across the nation. We sat down with the young advocate to learn more about her work, vision and how, despite her young age and somewhat by accident, she carved out a role as an up-and-coming leader. This transcript has been edited for clarity and brevity. Why did you decide to launch Intersectional.ABC? For me, it was a place to rant and talk about what I thought feminism should be. I had followed a lot of feminist accounts before but I wasn’t sure that I liked their narrative, so I wanted to be able to put my version out there. Some [accounts] I disagreed with. Some things were too far left or not left enough, a lot of things weren’t talked about. A lot of [the online resources] were white feminism: just very focused on white females and cisgender females, whereas I wanted to talk about everyone.
How has your identity as an Asian-American influenced your advocacy? Most people, including people of color, don’t even see [Asian-Americans] as people of color and don’t even think that we face racism at all. If we didn’t advocate for ourselves, no one would advocate for us. How did you get involved in the Colorado Springs advocacy scene? I actually just saw a Facebook ad by accident one day, and I went to one of their meetings. I met this lady named Catherine [Grandorff, founding president of Colorado Springs Feminists]. She actually planned the [Women’s March]. And that’s how I got involved. I helped bring the march here in January. How has the Colorado Springs advocacy scene impacted your work as an advocate and a feminist? Making connections, showing up to places and getting my name out there has brought me a lot of opportunities. What specifically angered you during the 2016 election cycle? Eighty-five percent of my anger at the time was toward the Republican Party, but the other 15 percent was the fact that the Democrats only supported Hillary [Clinton] half-heartedly. After all, empires fall because of fracturing in the government. Or the party, in this case. [Donald Trump’s] policies on immigration deeply affected me as I am the daughter of immigrants. Why do you want to be the President of the United States? I’ve always wanted to help people, and I think being in the position of president is the highest position I could use to help people. What do you want people to know about you above anything else? Being an advocate and an activist is what I want people to know about me. I’m hoping that will carry throughout my life. intern@southeastexpress.org This interview first ran in the June 28 edition of the Colorado Springs Business Journal.
Read more online at www.southeastexpress.org
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@epcpio
www.ElPasoCo.com Southeast Colorado Springs lies in El Paso County Commissioner District 4, which is represented by
BUSINESS
AUGUST — SEPTEMBER 2019
ElPasoCountyCO
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Longinos Gonzalez, Jr.
His background includes graduating from the Air Force Academy and a 20-year career as an Air Force intelligence officer, retiring as a Lt. Colonel in 2012. Longinos has a master’s degree in science education and was a teacher with Harrison School District 2 prior to his election
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The southeast is a community that works hard, values our families and our youth, and is proud of its diversity. I look forward to continued collaboration with my southeast neighbors in addressing the needs of our community.
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Commissioner Gonzalez can be reached at: (719) 520-6414 200 South Cascade Avenue, Suite 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80903-2202 LonginosGonzalezJr@elpasoco.com
CHOOSING A SAFE CAREGIVER As summer gives way to school and after-school activities, choosing a safe caregiver for your children is always critical. Here are some things to keep in mind as you share care of your child with others.
TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS! • • • • •
You are your baby’s best protector! Legal and prescribed medications, even marijuana, can affect how the caregiver will react to your child. Choose someone who does not have a short temper or anger issues. Select someone who has experience with children. Consider someone who has first aid training.
THINGS TO SHARE WITH YOUR CAREGIVER • • • • • •
No one knows your baby better than you do! Share how your baby likes to be soothed and calmed. Make sure they understand a child should not be left alone ... EVER! Be sure they know the ABC’s of safe sleep - Always put babies ALONE on their BACK in a CRIB. Make a list of all emergency contact information. Make sure they will NEVER shake, toss, hit (these actions can kill a child), yell, make fun of or withhold food for discipline.
WARNING SIGNS • • • • • • •
Unsafe caregivers can be ANYONE - a girlfriend, boyfriend, friend, neighbor or family member. Have they been drinking, using drugs or are they carrying a weapon? Do they anger easily or are they physically or verbally abusive? Are they inexperienced? Do they avoid answering questions about their activities with your child? If there are accidents, can they be explained? If you see cuts or bruises on your baby, can the caregiver explain how they happened?
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, call 1-844-CO-4-KIDS (1-844-264-5437). Sponsored Content
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SPACE COMMAND IN EL PASO COUNTY In 2019 the Air Force released the list of finalists for the headquarters of Space Command which included Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station, Schriever Air Force Base, Peterson Air Force Base and three other bases. The Board of El Paso County Commissioners is on record showing strong support for U.S. Space Command being placed at one of the Air Force bases in El Paso County. The strong presence of the United States Armed Forces in our community has ingrained a deep reverence for the military and has greatly enhanced our civic pride, culture, and vitality. The Pikes Peak Region is home to a robust aerospace, satellite, and space industry that includes the National Cyber Security Center’s Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center, the Space Foundation, and hosts the annual Space Symposium.
Whether you live in Southeast Colorado Springs, Black Forest, Falcon, Fountain, or anywhere else in the County, Planning and Community Development Executive Director Craig Dossey has one simple plea:
Take Our Survey!
“El Paso County is launching an initiative to develop a new County Master Plan,” said Dossey. “A Master Plan has such a broad impact, we are asking each county resident to complete a Master Plan survey to tell us where they want our community to go in the future.”
El Paso County is investing more than ever into our military partners by working with Colorado’s Congressional delegation and the Colorado Department of Transportation to further improve infrastructure around critical military installations, including State Highway 94, the North Gate of Peterson Air Force Base, and the entry gate to Fort Carson. Please contact Congressman Doug Lamborn, https://lamborn.house.gov to show your support for U.S. Space Command. You can also call his local office at 719-520-0055.
Citizens can complete the Master Plan Survey online by visiting http://wwww.elpasoco.com and clicking on “Your El Paso Master Plan” graphic. Visitors will arrive at a website that contains both the survey and additional information about the Master Plan, including a schedule of community meetings. The Master Plan development process will take about two years to complete and will include dozens of opportunities for citizens to voice their views. However, the online survey is a fast, effective, and convenient way for citizens to participate in the planning process.
GONZALEZ TO HOST TOWN HALL El Paso County Commissioner Longinos Gonzalez, Jr. will host a Town Hall Meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, at the Colorado Centre Metro District Fire Department at 4770 Horizon View Drive, Colorado Springs. “I’m looking forward to this opportunity to hear the thoughts of people from my district and learn more about ongoing needs and concerns,” Gonzalez said. El Paso County Assessor Steve Schleiker will attend to discuss the recent 2019 property reappraisal and answer questions. A representative from the El Paso County Public Works Department will also be available to take questions and discuss County roads and infrastructure.
@epcpio
ElPasoCountyCO
ADO
www.ElPasoCo.com
NT Y C O R LO
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EL PASO
The County Master Plan is broad and will examine County land use, infrastructure, water capacity, transportation networks, government services, and other important topics. The aim of the Master Plan is to better serve and accommodate the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors to the County. The Master Plan will integrate and expand on concepts from the current Countywide Policy Plan and several recent plans and studies. Examples include the Major Transportation Corridors Plan (2016) and the Parks Master Plan (2013), as well as other ongoing County initiatives, like the Water Master Plan (2018) and broadband strategic plan efforts.
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Leading Latina By Faith Miller
Julissa Soto overcame domestic violence, and wants to help others like her
The Southeast Express
When 22-year-old Julissa Soto awoke one fateful day in June of 1995, she knew that everything had changed. The night before, the father of Soto’s two children — her partner of seven years — had beaten her unconscious. Her neighbors on the floor below had called the police, and her partner fled. Soto was rushed to the hospital. She says she never saw her children’s father again. “When I woke up, I was very afraid of life,” Soto remembers. “I was undocumented, uneducated, didn’t speak a word in English. ... I remember thinking, ‘Shoot, this was the man that supported me and my two kids, and I have nothing now. How am I going to start from zero?’” Soto, a Mexican immigrant from Michoacán, had recently crossed the border in the trunk of a car to start a new life with her partner and children. Without him, she had to learn to work and provide for her family alone. And despite the seemingly unsurmountable challenge, Soto — with her neighbors’ help, she says — learned English, got her GED, and went on to earn degrees in early childhood development and public health. Later, Soto made a name for herself at the American Diabetes Association, winning several prestigious awards during her 16 years as regional director of community health strategies. In 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deemed her program “most promising in its potential to positively impact diabetes-related health outcomes among Latino populations.” Now, as director of statewide programs for Servicios de la Raza, Soto teaches at-risk Latino youth and their families across Colorado about acculturation stress, substance use prevention, and physical and emotional health. Soto’s own life experience is always top of mind when she works with young Latina immigrants. Sometimes the past still haunts her — looking at old hospital records draws tears from her eyes. But more than that, her history drives her to help other victims break the cycle.
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“Twenty years ago, I wish I would have known my rights as a woman. I wish I would have known my value,” Soto says. “I did want to get out,” she adds. “I just didn’t know how. But now that I’m out, I’m helping others to get out.”
By the numbers
One in three Latinas will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes, according to the National Latino Network. Undocumented Latina immigrants face an added, and growing, issue: Like Soto was once, many are afraid to report their concerns to the police for fear of being deported. A May survey of 600 advocates and attorneys across the U.S. attempted to quantify the problem. The survey, conducted by the Tahirih Justice Center, a nonprofit serving immigrant women and girls, and a coalition of national organizations, found that 76 percent of advocates reported their clients — survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking — had concerns about contacting the police. And 52 percent of advocates said they’d worked with survivors who’d dropped civil or criminal cases out of fear. If one person in a family relationship has immigration paperwork and the other person doesn’t, the power imbalance can create conditions ripe for abuse, says Lucía Guillen, the executive director of local nonprofit Centro de la Familia. “The one that has citizenship wants to control the one that doesn’t have [it], and abuse them and take advantage of that situation,” Guillen says. “...That causes anxiety, depression — and so our families suffer many, many mental illnesses [as] a consequence of the ... broken [immigration] system and other issues caused by clients adapting to a new culture.” Guillen’s organization provides advocacy mental health services to the Latino community. Unlike larger local nonprofits AspenPointe and Peak Vista, Guillen says, Centro de la Familia doesn’t require clients to provide a Social Security number — meaning many undocumented immigrants are referred to Centro’s small staff.
Changing the dialogue
Soto is open about her own mental health struggles. Seven years ago, she says, depression and anxiety stemming from acculturation stress brought her to a breaking point. She tried to take her own life. “I was just tired of life, and trying to fit in both worlds,” she says. “I didn’t fit anymore — because I’m highly educated, I [felt] I didn’t fit anymore in the Mexican world or Latino world. But I also don’t fit in the American world. I’m not blonde and blue eyes, you know.” Soto says she felt pressure to appear strong on the outside, because she served as a role model for other Latinas: “[I] didn’t want to talk about it, because I am an example for the community. And leaders don’t cry, leaders are strong.” Now, she wants to help other Latinas who’ve survived domestic violence work through their own mental health issues — and learn to talk about them. Through Servicios de la Raza, Soto will start a survivor’s support group in Spanish at the Southeast & Armed Services YMCA. (Times and dates are yet to be determined, but Soto says those interested in joining can contact her at 720-427-5542.) “In El Paso County, there’s not that many resources in Español for the immigrant community,” Soto says. Guillen agrees, and she’s not sure why the shortage exists. Culturally sensitive programs, she says, are crucial, especially for undocumented immigrants experiencing domestic violence. “We try very hard to explain to them the system and to provide services in a nurturing and safe environment,” she says. “That is the reason that we exist, because they wouldn’t go to the police to report.” faith@csindy.com This story first ran in the June 26 edition of the Colorado Springs Independent.
SEEK HELP Here are some local sources available to survivors of domestic violence: 24-Hour Crisis Line: Call 1-844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255 to receive confidential mental health support from a trained specialist. TESSA 24-Hour Safe Line: Call 719-633-3819 to be connected with TESSA staff, who provide help in crisis situations, work with victims to create safety plans and connect them with other community resources. Servicios de la Raza: Visit facebook.com/servicesforthepeopleCOS to learn about programs for youth and families. Centro de la Familia: Call 719-227-9170 or visit www.centro.ws to learn more. Para leer éste artículo en Español, visita www.southeastexpress.org.
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CITY CONNECTIONS 11 WAYS TO EXPERIENCE COLORADO SPRINGS – OLYMPIC CITY USA!
BUILD GRANT – HANCOCK/ACADEMY PROJECT In July, the City submitted an application for a 2019 U.S. Department of Transportation Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant in order to complete the reconstruction of the Hancock Expressway and Academy Boulevard intersection in Southeast Colorado Springs. Grant funding would allow the City to reconstruct the intersection and address transportation needs, increase pedestrian and vehicular safety, enhance the convenience of bus stop locations, and increase opportunities for business development and economic revitalization.
Are you looking for fun and affordable ways to make new memories with your family before the kids start school? The City’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department offers many options right here in our own backyard! Get out and experience something new right here in Olympic City USA.
1. Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain
The City of Colorado Springs has been actively engaged in a revitalization planning and implementation effort focusing on the segment of Academy Boulevard between Maizeland Road and Drennan Road/Proby Parkway. In 2011, City Council adopted the Academy Boulevard Corridor Great Streets Plan for this approximately six-mile corridor. The Great Streets Plan identifies Hancock Expressway/Academy Boulevard as a major redevelopment node, recommending a detailed process to comprehensively redesign the intersection. The City has also conducted a Planning and Environmental Linkage study for the intersection which prioritizes safety, improved transportation options, better access to businesses around the intersection, and new business development opportunities.
With construction currently underway on the new Pikes Peak Summit Complex, you only need to drive part of the way up the highway before boarding a complimentary shuttle that will take you to the summit and allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy the views. Plan your adventure to 14,115’ today by visiting www. pikespeakcolorado.com.
Insider tip: Get $2 off admission by using the online coupon. There is a limit of one coupon per car per visit and it cannot be combined with other discounts.
2. Garden of the Gods Park and Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center Learn more about the history of the park at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center on 30th Street. The center is free and open to the public and has many family-friendly activities, like nature walks and hikes that are routinely available to guests. More information is available at www.coloradosprings.gov/gog.
Insider tip: While the park’s new restroom facilities are under construction this summer, a great place to park is the new, naturally-surfaced lot at the corner of 30th and Gateway.
3. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Before you head into Garden of the Gods Park, stop by Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, a living history museum located right next to the park! The ranch provides exciting educational opportunities where visitors can experience the daily lives and times from the old West frontier. Admission is free for children 5 and under, $8 for adults (18-54), $5 for seniors (55+) and $4 for students (ages 6-17). More information is available at www.rockledgeranch.com.
4. Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
The Pioneers Museum is a free museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the cultural history of the Pikes Peak region right in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. Each Tuesday from May 14-October 29, the museum hosts more than a dozen local food trucks for Food Truck Tuesday from 11-1:30 p.m. on its west lawn. The full activity schedule can be found on www.cspm.org.
5. Swing High Playground in Memorial Park
Swing High playground in Memorial Park is one of two universally accessible playgrounds in our city. As such, it incorporates design principles that provide play areas that are usable and effective for everyone no matter their ability.
6. Deerfield Hills Community Center and Sprayground
Deerfield Hills Community Center is one of the City’s four community centers that offers a variety of summer and after-school programs, creating a positive and safe environment for children of all ages. Deerfield’s sprayground includes 16 different water spray features containing more than 50 individual spray nozzles and fun features! More information: www.coloradosprings.gov/deerfield-hillscommunity-center.
Event alert: On July 27, Deerfield is hosting a FREE Theatreworks production of Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors starting at 6 p.m.!
BUILD Transportation grants are awarded on a competitive basis for transportation projects that have a significant local or regional impact and emphasize improved access to reliable, safe, and affordable transportation for communities. Grant awards are expected to be announced in November 2019.
7. Youth Bike Park in Fountain Park
Calling all bike riders! Check out the NEW youth bike park in Fountain Park, which is adjacent to the Hillside Community Center. A first-of-its-kind park for Colorado Springs, the park includes a street skills course, along with a mountain bike skills and obstacle course.
Event alert: On Aug. 10 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. you can also join the fun at Hillside’s CommUnity Day. The event will feature back-to-school supply give aways, live entertainment, delicious food and other free family fun. More information: www.coloradosprings.gov/hillside-community-center.
8. North Cheyenne Cañon Park
North Cheyenne Cañon Park, located on the southwest side of the City, offers an extensive trail system, breathtaking views of the canyon and many opportunities to view wildlife. More information: www.coloradosprings.gov/ncc.
9. Palmer Park
A multitude of activities can be found in this centrally-located space, including recreational fields, a playground, scenic overlook, more than 25 miles of trails, picnicking and an enclosed dog park.
SLOW YOUR ROLL—SCHOOL BUS SAFETY The school season is quickly approaching! That means you’ll start seeing those yellow buses back out on the roads. The Colorado Springs Police Department is asking for the community’s help in ensuring our children are safe when traveling to and from school by knowing when it’s required to stop for a school bus. According to Colorado law: •
You must stop your vehicle at least 20 feet before reaching a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing whether it is on your side of the road, the opposite side of the road, or at an intersection you are approaching.
•
You must remain stopped until the flashing red lights are no longer operating. Watch carefully for children near the school bus and children crossing the roadway before proceeding.
•
You are not required to stop if the bus is traveling toward you on a roadway that is separated by a median or other physical barrier.
Violating school bus traffic laws is considered a class-one or class-two misdemeanor offense. Drivers can be fined up to $300, with a mandatory court appearance and six points on a driver’s license. A second offense within a five-year period has a fine up to $1,000.
10. Valley Hi Golf Course
Valley Hi is one of two golf courses owned and operated by the City of Colorado Springs. This affordable 18-hole course offers wonderful scenic views of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain, attractive to golfers of all levels. Book a tee time today at: www.coloradosprings.gov/valleyhi.
11. John Venezia Community Park
John Venezia Community Park is one of the newest additions to our City’s park infrastructure and provides wonderful picnicking opportunities, reservable pavilions, universally accessible playground, sprayground, artificial turf fields, pickleball courts and more. More information: https://coloradosprings.gov/parks/ page/john-venezia-park
GET INVOLVED
PUBLIC NOTICES
Boards and Commissions—Did you know the City has over 30 boards serving under City Council? Learn more about each board and commission or apply to serve! Coloradosprings.gov/boards
Be in the know! Find out when and where City meetings are through Public Notices. Coloradosprings.gov/public-notices
Sponsored Content
TOWN HALL WITH COUNCIL MEMBERS AVILA AND SKORMAN •
Tuesday, July 30 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
•
Meadows Park Community Center, 1943 S El Paso Ave.
•
Council Members Yolanda Avila and Richard Skorman
Please join us for a Town Hall to discuss development along South Nevada, public safety concerns and public transportation in the area.
STAY CONNECTED
Visit ColoradoSprings.gov/news for all the latest news from the City of Colorado Springs. Follow us on social media. • CityofCOS on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram • City Website: www.ColoradoSprings.gov
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AUGUST — SEPTEMBER 2019
Mission-driven medicine
Meet the doctors behind Southeast’s growing Matthews-Vu clinic
By Regan Foster
The Southeast Express
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r. Richard Vu’s mission in life is driven by three things: His family, his practice and his faith. “We have two priorities,” said Vu, a soft-spoken physician with just the slightest hint of an accent. “Our first priority is to honor God and our second is to take care of both our patients and our staff.” Vu founded Matthews-Vu Medical Group with his wife, pediatrician Dr. Shabnum Matthews-Vu. The couple met in medical school at Northwestern University, and while completing their medical training at inner-city Chicago hospitals, they made a pact: They would someday open a clinic in an underserved, economically developing community. The facility would be supported by their private-insurance clinics, and regardless of insurance status, all patients would be treated with the same level of dignity, care and respect. That vision came true almost two decades later, when doctors Vu and Mathews-Vu purchased then-Value Care on Colorado Springs’ Southeast side. The sale closed on March 1, and the clinic absorbed Value Care’s 4,200-patient base without interruption. The clinic, located at 1050 S. Academy Blvd., recently added behavioral health to its primary and pediatric care roster, but Vu said there is still room to grow. He envisions a multi-faceted clinic that could offer everything from urgent care and family practice
to internal medicine and pediatric care. “Southeast is going to be a big location for us in the future,” Vu said. “We want services in that are to provide multi-specialty care anchored by primary care.” “We care about our patients and want to do the best for them, no matter what,” Matthews-Vu added. Vu’s altruistic vision is rooted in his origin story. He was born in Vietnam and practiced Buddhism during his earliest years. His family moved to Chicago when he was just 12, where they made the types of difficult decisions his clients could face on any given day. He found a calling when he met Shabnum Matthews. A fellow medical student and practicing Christian from the Los Angeles area, she introduced him to her family and her faith. “Since then, I’ve been trying to live my life in that way,” Vu said. “I wake up every morning as a Christian. I wake up every morning as a husband and a father. I wake up every morning as a doctor. “I myself have been able to find a way to balance those three areas because the three areas coexist.” When the couple moved to Colorado Springs in 2004 and became acquainted with Southeast, they knew they not only found their personal home but also a community where they could fulfill that service pledge made years prior. Matthews-Vu Site Manager Cory Acarese founded Value Care Health Clinic in 2014, when primary care in Southeast was slim to non-existent. Today, the neighborhood is home to a multi-specialty Peak Vista Community Health clinic, and mental health
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A year from now you’ll wish you’d started today.
COURTESY PHOTOS/CORY ACARESE
Dr. Shabnum Matthews-Vu and Dr. Richard Vu
provider Aspen Pointe offers youth services and training via a campus at 1795 Jet Wing Drive. Five health care providers serve patients in the Southeast Matthews-Vu clinic, and Vu said adding behavioral health care was a natural next step on the healthful mission. While numbers related to Southeast are not readily available, plenty of studies have found correlations between mental health and socioeconomic status. One, published March 13 by the Public Library of Science, found that German children from low socioeconomic homes are often exposed to stressful life situations that impact their mental wellness. “There’s a huge level of need … in the Southeast clinic,” Vu said. “That’s going to be a huge part of our growth down there.” regan.foster@southeastexpress.org
CONTACT THEM To learn more about the Matthews-Vu clinic or to set an appointment, call 574-7083 or visit matthewsvu.com.
AUGUST — SEPTEMBER 2019
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*Disclaimer: The Concrete Couch is the fiscal sponsor of the Express, and the relationship had no impact on our reporting or editorial voice.
Concrete Couch to renovate lot into public park, undergo new (green) beginning By Lily Reavis
The Southeast Express
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he lot at 1100 S. Royer St. in Southeast Colorado Springs sat undeveloped for years. The combination of a busy train track as the primary neighbor, lack of an on-site water source and recurring urban camping around the property made the land undesirable to developers. On April 12, however, the lot was bought by Concrete Couch, a community-building nonprofit based in Colorado Springs. (In the interest of full disclosure, we note that the Concrete Couch is the fiscal sponsor of the Southeast Express. This relationship in no way affected our reporting on this story.) For the past 25 years, Concrete Couch has worked to bring communities in the Pikes Peak region together through public art. The organization operates under seven core values, including, “getting dirty is liberating” and, “people who feel valued contribute more.” Founding Director Steve Wood believes that the new lot has potential to bring the community together. Concrete Couch purchased the lot for a mere $200,000 — a steal for 5.67 acres just blocks from downtown — renaming it the “Concrete Coyote.” The organization is currently renovating the lot into a community park, complete with a walking trail, music venue and public art space. Eventually, Concrete Couch will move its headquarters from Vermijo Avenue to the campus, located in the Hillside neighborhood at the intersection of South Royer and East Las Vegas streets. “We have always had a host organization provide us with free office
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Steve Wood (left) and Parker Hall laugh during a June volunteer day at the Concrete Coyote campus.
space, but as we grow we do need our own space that we can count on and modify as needed,” said Wood.
Transitioning home Until December 2018, the lot was occupied by an estimated 100 urban campers. The property’s owners at the time asked city officials to assist in relocation and cleanup. Police gave two weeks’ notice before city staff came in with bulldozers, demolishing the campsite. Concrete Couch leaders had hoped that the site could serve as transitional housing before its new headquarters opened, Wood told our sister paper, the Colorado Springs Independent, late last year. During a June tour of the property, Wood encountered a camper on the property. While asking him to vacate the premises, Wood offered a meal and fresh water in return for the camper’s help with cleanup. Today, Wood wants the Concrete Coyote to become a public park, built by and for community members. Since the purchase of the lot, he has spent every weekday morning renovating the land, joined by vol-
unteers, interns and Concrete Couch staff members. The organization hired several summer interns to help renovate the land, providing them with a small stipend for their work. Each morning, the crew would set out to accomplish construction on different areas of the Coyote site. As well as developing the park, Concrete Couch plans to build an office, a caretaker’s apartment, a storage garage and public bathrooms on the lot. “This is major stuff for us,” said Wood. “We did not start out to find and develop a community park, but the land which we have bought really lends itself to that endeavor.”
A fresh start In the early weeks of construction, Concrete Couch focused on building tree-friendly retaining walls on the northeast side of the lot. The area has become known as the “719 Incline” from the stone stairs that snake around the tree planters. The stairs lead to the top of a hill, providing one of the best views of the Coyote lot. Another section of interest is what teacher Becky Pontz nicknamed “The Theater.” The area is on another
hillside slightly south of the 719 Incline. Concrete Couch team members dug out a flat amphitheater-like platform with two rows of seating halfway up the hill. Pontz hopes that the organization will use the space for live music and movies. She suggested that a white sheet be hung for films, but maintained Concrete Couch’s philosophy that the space should really be used for whatever the community wants to see. “We don’t want it to seem like we’re directing,” Pontz said, “We want it to be collaborative.” Concrete Couch is also focused on building a walking trail that will run the length of the park. On June 11, the organization started the trail project, allowing interns and volunteers to take part as they desired. Some team members got to work, digging out debris from the proposed trail site; a few began by collecting trash off the ground; and others set about building a retaining wall into a hill that the trail will pass. “There’s no right or wrong way to do it, everyone’s learning,” Wood said. “It can always be modified.” He emphasized that the lot has potential for exploring Concrete Couch’s core values. He hopes that the campus will allow the community to create the experiences, opportunities and infrastructure it desires “in a more intimate, organic way.” “We have a tremendous method and we relish sharing it, and at the same time there is a lot of space for us to learn from the people and organizations that we work with,” he said. “That’s our working concept in a nutshell, sharing resources and working together for the common good.” intern@southeastexpress.org
If he had a hammer Teen finds life passion through work with Concrete Couch
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lay Bussanich, a 2019 graduate of The Classical Academy College Pathways (TCACP) in Southeast, has interned with Concrete Couch for four summers in a row. On June 11, Concrete Couch raised a giant structure of a hammer directly outside the entrance of the Concrete Coyote, one that Bussanich designed and built independently. He spent hours every Friday morning since late January collecting recycled materials and welding the hammer together. Bussanich said that the sculpture symbolizes new beginnings and the importance of community building at the Concrete Coyote. He added: “And there’s just something epic about a giant hammer.” Bussanich first got involved with Concrete Couch through the organization’s “Fab Lab,” a creative con-
struction space that operates every Monday in the Manitou Arts Center (MAC). Since then, Bussanich found his passion for welding and metalsmithing, leading to the creation of his giant hammer sculpture. The sculpture is made of 99 percent recycled metal (the only new materials are the bolts holding it together) and it comes apart into three pieces for easy transport. Bussanich said that it might not permanently mark the entrance of the Concrete Coyote, as he is considering entering it in art shows around the state. This fall Bussanich will take welding classes at Pikes Peak Community College, directly next to TCACP’s campus. He will work at several Concrete Couch summer camps, and hopes to continue welding throughout his career.
— Lily Reavis
Concrete Couch volunteers raise Clay Bussanich's hammer structure at the entrance to the Concrete Coyote campus.
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AUGUST — SEPTEMBER 2019
Tastes like a party
Summer fiesta salad brings heat to season’s bounty
By Aubrey ‘Bo’ Bowale Special to the Express
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hhhh! Summertime is here, and that means local produce farmers and neighborhood gardeners are spending these precious months with hands in the dirt and hearts full of hope for bountiful harvests of fresh salad greens and veggies. This is the “season of the salad.” Choosing to eat salads is a delicious, easy and affordable way to help meet some of those daily dietary requirements that sustain health. In only five minutes, you can create a nutritious green salad with a tub of pre-washed salad greens, a tomato or other veggies, and a bottle of light salad dressing. Salads are a fun way of providing various textures, flavors and colors into your regular diet. They’re even kid approved! Because they are totally customizable, you can include the veggies or even fruits that your tastebuds love. Save even more money by using whatever produce you have on hand. Salads should be your best friend if you are seeking weight loss, better nutrition or just to live a
healthier lifestyle. If you regularly include salads with raw vegetables in your diet, a blood draw will show you with higher levels of powerful antioxidants like folic acid, lycopene, beta-carotene and vitamins E and C. A recent study from the National Cancer Institute finds that people whose diets are rich in raw vegetables significantly lower their risk of developing a long list of cancers — even those who smoke heavily and drink alcohol. A few important tweaks will transform any salad into meal, just follow these four soft rules: Greens: Embrace dark greens like spinach, kale and romaine lettuce (iceberg has little nutrition). They’re best if local and organically grown, or purchase organic salad greens Proteins: Choose healthy options such as lean chicken breast, vegan chicken or portabella mushrooms; or try adding chunk light tuna, boiled eggs or chickpeas Healthy additions: Try eating the rainbow. Go for colored veggies like bell peppers, carrots, avocados, heirloom tomatoes and zucchini; and experiment with various berries. Healthy Fat: Reach for olive, sunflower or safflower oil-based dressings or just squeeze lemon juice. Also, try adding sliced almonds, avocado or black olives. The options are endless. Let the salad you are
creating speak “fresh and healthy” to you, not “processed and heavy.” Salad dressing is where most people get into trouble when it comes to a healthy salad. Almost all store-bought dressings contain high-fructose corn syrup (an unhealthy sweetener), large amounts of sodium and other undesirable ingredients. If you must get a bottle off the shelf, take a minute to scan and compare the ingredients of several brands to make the best choice. (Purchasing an organic dressing will often solve this problem.) But homemade dressing is always best and it is really easy with a low cost. Try using various seasonings — pink salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, etc. — to enhance the flavor of the veggies, rather than of drowning it in dressing. Finally, you need to know where to go to access all of this wonderful green goodness, right? Each of the ingredients in my Healthy Fiesta Salad recipe is obtainable all over the Southeast at your major neighborhood grocery store. Fresh, organic produce and foodstuffs can be purchased from the Walmart Supercenter, Walmart Neighborhood Markets, Safeway or King Soopers. Aubrey ‘Bo’ Bowale is a vegan chef and the founder of GreenBox and Southeast F.R.E.S.H., as well as a Southeast resident and RISE Coalition Very Involved Person (VIP).
LIST SHOPPING- - - - - - - - - - - - -
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s .$7.94 hick’n Strip C ss e tl a e 2 Gardein M e .. $3.46 aine Lettuc m o R ic n a .... $1.36 3-Pack Org .................... .. .. s o d a c o v 2 Hass A s ..... $2.86 pe Tomatoe ra G ic n a rg 1.00 1 Tub O ................ $ .. b o C e th n no . $0.92 2 Ears Cor eans .......... B ck la B ic n ... $1.76 1 Can Orga inaigrette.. V e im L y st 2 1 Kraft Ze ing .... $1.1 tas Season ji a F k ic m 8 r 1 McCo .......... $1.6
...... ercent): .... Tax (8.25 p -----------------------2.10
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Summer Fiesta Salad Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes Chef’s note: If you prefer meat protein, select all-natural chicken tenderloins. In lieu of corn on the cob, you can also substitute organic, whole-kernel canned corn.
2 packages Gardein Meatless Chick’n Strips 1, 3-pack organic romaine lettuce 2 Hass avocados 1 tub organic grape tomatoes 2 ears corn on the cob 1 can organic black beans 1 bottle Kraft Zesty Lime Vinaigrette 1 package McCormick Fajitas Seasoning
1. Unpackage your romaine and tomatoes, and shuck the corn. Briefly soak your veggies to begin removing any dirt or other contaminants. Rinse well under running water. Shake any excess water from veggies, allow time to dry a bit before cutting. (Optional: for even cleaner veggies, soak in a 1-to-3 mixture of vinegar and water) 2. While veggies are drying, cook the protein. Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or any vegetable oil) in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the fajita seasoning into the warm oil and sauté the frozen Gardein Chick’n Strips for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until browned and crisp on all sides. Remove pan from heat and keep covered if you prefer a warm salad. (If using chicken, allow more time until each is fully cooked.) 4. Chop up the romaine into the size you desire, but no smaller than 1 inch. Slice each of the toma-
toes in half. Cut the corn off of the cob or drain and rinse the canned corn. Drain and rinse the can of black beans. Cube the avocados. 4. Place all cut veggies and beans into a large mixing bowl and lightly drizzle the dressing over the salad, being careful not to add to much. Toss and continue to lightly drizzle with dressing until each ingredient is just glazed. 5. Slide the mixed salad into four plates or shallow bowls. Top each salad with protein of choice. The amount of each protein chosen for this recipe will provide even the hungriest eater with a very satisfying meal. 6. Season with black pepper to taste. Alternately, try adding some crunchy crushed tortilla chips, finely diced jalapeños or add a scoop of medium salsa.
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AUGUST — SEPTEMBER 2019
Stallions gear up to tackle 2019
Ersery begins second year at Sierra with discipline and consistency By Lily Reavis
The Southeast Express
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ierra High School’s weight room is, upon first glance, exactly what one would expect. Motivational quotes line the cardinal and gold walls, painted in the school’s colors. Weight racks and machines surround the perimeter, circling the thick, foldable mats that sit in the middle. The air smells of sweat and cleaning solution, and the clang of weights hitting the floor echoes off the cinder block walls. On first glance, Sierra’s weight room is exactly the same as every other high school’s. But then you take a second look. “Whether you think you can or whether you think you can’t, you’re right,” is painted in bold capital letters directly in front of the bench presses. “Everything you need is already inside of you,” stares back at the athletes as they hold planks on mats in the middle of the room. Beside the door is a large sign that reads, “Burn The Ships WE CAME TO CONQUER.” At the beginning and end of every practice, each player taps the sign, signaling their
EXPRESS PHOTO/LILY REAVIS
Members of the Sierra varsity football defensive line runs tackling drills in July.
“clock in” and “clock out” of the weight room. The quotes were chosen by head coach Draye Ersery and they each reflect his core values. The upcoming season will be only Ersery’s second at Sierra, but the team has undergone a massive transformation since he was hired in 2017. “Two years ago, we were able to do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted,” said senior Elijah Smith. “But since [Ersery] came in, it’s been a new culture.” The Sierra football team no longer
believes in giving up. According to Ersery, the ancient Vikings would burn their own ships after docking in each new land they planned to conquer, purposefully removing their option to flee. The Stallions have embraced this ideology. “We’re not running away, we’re not turning back,” Ersery said. “We’re getting out there, we’re fighting hard and we’re conquering the field.” For the first time in the school’s history, that field will be at home. Sierra is planning to host its own football games this season, playing
on the school’s existing turf rather than traveling to the district stadium at Harrison High School, where its games have been played for the past 35 years. Sierra Athletic Director Robert “Bob” Bentley believes that football games are a crucial part of American high school life, and he is excited to be able to provide that for Sierra students. Although the district has supplied Sierra with spirit buses for students to travel to Harrison, their budget did not allow for students to attend each game. Bentley also pointed out that the rivalry between Sierra and Harrison affected crowd outcomes, as many students simply didn’t want to travel to Harrison. Ersery wants team members to keep the pride of playing at home in their minds, so they are practicing on the field all summer long. Every weekday at 5 p.m., the weight room fills with about 20 players and five coaches. There is not a single quiet moment during these summer practices. The coaches yell over one another while the players focus on their workouts. “Don’t cheat yourself.” “Hold it.”
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“Get your feet up.” “Breathe.” “It’s all mental, fellas.” At the end of their time in the weight room, the team “claps it out,” applauding their hard work, before hustling to the field for the cardio workout. On their way out, each player makes sure to tap the “Burn The Ships” sign.
Accountability king
Ersery expects every team member to show up to summer practice and give each session their all. “You can get out of a workout with an excuse, and you’re free for that day,” he said. “But you lost the reason why we’re here, now we have to reteach you. Now we have to slow down. Now we’re putting ourselves at a disadvantage against an opponent we know we can beat, all because one person decided that they were gonna be inconsistent.” His emphasis on consistency defines Ersery’s coaching. A Sierra football alumnus himself, he values discipline and encourages commitment within the team. “Football is about discipline,” Ersery said. “It’s about working together as a unit, and most importantly, it’s about being accountable to each other. And we didn’t have that [when I played at Sierra], so I found it necessary to come back.” He added, “I care about this school,”
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while pointing out his own athletics banner, commemorating a 2005 Track & Field League Championship, which hangs in the same gym where he now conducts practices. He got his coaching start during the 2011-12 year at Golden Gate High School in Naples, Florida, before spending the 2013 season as varsity running back and linebacker coach for Naples’ Lely High School. In 2016, Ersery came back to Colorado Springs and volunteered as a coach at Skyview Middle School, according to a press release announcing his hire. According to Ersery, Sierra’s football team has always had the skills and character to be successful, but lacked serious coaches and the drive to finish games with gusto. Because of that, one of the team’s main focuses during the upcoming season will be to play consistently throughout the entire game. Of his own time on Sierra’s football team, Ersery said: “We had a disservice when it came to coaching. We just had a bunch of guys who let us do what we wanted to, but there was no discipline.”
Standout Stallions
The team has three key players Ersery is excited to watch this season. Elijah Smith, a senior running back and cornerback for the Stallions, has grown as a player since Ersery took over last season.
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Before then, Smith played wide receiver and cornerback, rushing for about 200 yards and scoring only once in the 2017 season. During the 2018 football season, Smith scored six touchdowns, four of which were rushing. “We changed the system … we put him into a system that made him successful," Ersery said. “And he almost had 1,000 yards” last season. Smith has two simple goals for the season: “Keep improving, and show that the Southeast side has talent.” In a more statistical sense, Smith is hoping to reach at least 1,500 rushing yards and score 10 touchdowns this season. He also hopes that the team will earn a new banner for the gym, commemorating a league or state victory. Elijah Baker, a 6-foot-2-inch, 240-pound senior on defensive tackle and center, has what Ersery calls a “high football IQ.” “With players, you’ve got to instruct them like robots. ‘Go do this. Go do that.’ And there’s no thinking,” Ersery explained. “Elijah Baker, he’s the type of guy to say, ‘Hey coach, stop calling this play ’cause every time you call
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it, they do this, this and this. This should be the adjustment.’” Ersery emphasized the rarity of such a high football IQ in a young player. “Ever since coach Ersery showed up, I’ve had to become mentally stronger, inside and outside, on the field and off the field,” Baker said. Baker is hoping for 15 sacks this season, a massive improvement from last, in which he had only one sack. He isn’t intimidated by the difference, though, as he has been working toward the goal for months. “Discipline, commitment, that’s what we’re all about here,” he said. Maleik Goldman is a junior with big shoes to fill. The 2018 season was the last for Sierra’s star player, Tristan Burris. From the positions of cornerback and wide receiver, Burris averaged 5.9 tackles per game — with 53 total tackles — in 2018. He was named player of the game three times in the season, once for overall play and twice for defense. Ersery describes Goldman as a “very hard worker and extremely fast.” He added, “We lost Burris last year, but when you have that [Goldman’s] Continued as DISCIPLINE page 24
Who: Sierra vs. The Classical Academy What: Season opening varsity football game When: 7 p.m. Aug. 30 Where: Sierra High School, 2250 Jet Wing Drive.
Info: Gostallionsports.com
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Scream for your team!
Here are our editor’s picks for the must-see matchups of August and September. — Compiled by Regan Foster
Week of Aug. 18 Harrison High School Girls varsity softball vs. Alameda: 4:15 p.m., Aug. 21 at El Pomar Youth Sports Park, 2212 Executive Circle. Mitchell High School Varsity football scrimmage vs. The Classical Academy: 1 p.m. Aug. 24 at Garry Berry Stadium, 2115 Afton Way. Palmer High School Boys varsity tennis vs. Air Academy: 3:45 p.m. Aug. 20 at Palmer High School, 301 N. Nevada Ave. Sierra High School Varsity cross country Cheyenne Mountain Stampede: start time TBA, Aug. 23 at Norris Penrose Event Center, 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road.
Week of Aug. 25 Harrison High School Girls varsity softball vs. Sand Creek: 3:30 p.m. Aug. 27 at Sand Creek High School, 7005 N. Carefree Circle. Mitchell High School Girls varsity softball vs. Sierra: 4 p.m., Aug. 27 at El Pomar Youth Sports Park, 2212 Executive Circle.
Palmer High School Varsity football vs. Grand Junction: 11 a.m. Aug. 31 at Garry Berry Stadium, 2115 Afton Way. Sierra High School Varsity football vs. The Classical Academy: 7 p.m. Aug. 30 at Sierra High School, 2250 Jet Wing Drive.
Week of Sept. 1 Harrison High School Girls varsity volleyball vs. Sand Creek: 6 p.m. Sept. 3 at Harrison High School, 2755 Janitell Road. Mitchell High School Boys varsity soccer vs. Lewis-Palmer: 7 p.m. Sept. 3 at Lewis-Palmer High School, 1300 Higby Road, Monument. Palmer High School Girls varsity softball vs. Rampart: 4 p.m. Sept. 2 at Palmer High School, 325 Wahsatch Ave. Sierra High School Boys varsity soccer vs. James Irwin Charter Academy: 4 p.m., Sept. 3 at Sierra High School, 2250 Jet Wing Drive.
grateful
“When I decided to volunteer at SilverI Key’s Food Pantry, I “When decided to volunteer knew it Iwould be to rewarding. “When decided volunteer at Silver Key’s Food Pantry, I I was surprised to find out how at Silver Key’s Food Pantry, I I knew it would be rewarding. thankful it makes me out feelhow to I knew it would be rewarding. was surprised to find helpsurprised others who not how be was to may find thankful it makes me out feel to as fortunate as Imay am.feel Thebe thankful it makes me to help others who not seniors served through help others who not as fortunate as Imay am. Thebe the pantry as fortunate as I really am. The seniors served through appreciate the food seniors served through the pantry really and necessities they the pantry really appreciate the food receive and I like appreciate the food and necessities they knowing it helps them and necessities receive and I likethey stretch their limited receive I like them knowingand it helps budgets I knowing itfurther. helps them stretch their limited have a lot of fun stretch their limited budgets further. I making afurther. difference in budgets have a lot of fun I amaking senior’s life.” have a lot of fun a difference in difference in amaking senior’salife.” a senior’s life.”
Be part of something important. part of something important. ApplyBe to volunteer at silverkey.org/volunteer Be part of something important.
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Week of Sept. 8
Week of Sept. 22
Harrison High School Varsity football vs. Glenwood Springs: 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Glenwood Springs High School, 1521 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs.
Harrison High School Varsity football vs. Pueblo Central: 1 p.m. Sept. 28 at Dutch Clark Stadium, 1001 W. Abriendo Ave., Pueblo.
Mitchell High School Varsity football vs. Pueblo Central: 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Garry Berry Stadium, 2115 Afton Way. Palmer High School Girls varsity volleyball vs. Air Academy: 6 p.m. Sept. 10 at Palmer High School, 301 N. Nevada Ave. Sierra High School Girls varsity softball vs. Mesa Ridge: 4 p.m. Sept. 12 at El Pomar Youth Sports Complex, 2212 Executive Circle.
Week of Sept. 15 Harrison High School Cross country invitational vs. Coronado: 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at Monument Valley Park, 170 W. Cache La Poudre St. Mitchell High School Girls varsity volleyball vs. Dolores Huerta Preparatory Academy: 6 p.m. Sept. 17 at Mitchell High School, 1205 Potter Drive.
Mitchell High School Boys varsity soccer vs. Montrose: 5 p.m. Sept. 27 at Montrose High School, 600 S. Selig Ave., Montrose. Palmer High School Boys varsity soccer vs. Palmer Ridge: 6 p.m. Sept. 23 at Garry Berry Stadium, 2115 Afton Way. Sierra High School Varsity cross country invitational: 4 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City.
Week of Sept. 29 Harrison High School Cross country invitational: 9 a.m. Oct. 5 at Fountain-Fort Carson High School, 900 Jimmy Camp Road. Mitchell High School Girls varsity softball vs. The Classical Academy: 4 p.m., Oct. 1 at the Classical Academy, 975 Stout Road.
Palmer High School Boys varsity golf Cougar Classic: Time TBA Sept. 18 at Kissing Camels Golf Course, 4500 Kissing Camels Drive.
Palmer High School Boys varsity football vs. Air Academy: 7 p.m. Oct. 3 at Garry Berry Stadium, 2115 Afton Way.
Sierra High School Varsity football vs. Pueblo Central: 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at Dutch Clark Stadium, 1001 W. Abriendo Ave.
Sierra High School Boys varsity soccer vs. Harrison: 4 p.m., Oct. 1 at Sierra High School, 2250 Jet Wing Drive.
For current high school sports schedules, visit southeastexpress.org/something-to-cheer-about. Schedules are updated daily.
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Hogan’s heroics
New D2 athletics director sets goal of elementary programming By Regan Foster
The Southeast Express
D
ave Hogan’s aspirations of playing Division I college basketball were benched by a ruptured disk and a dose of reality. So now the 59-year-old, former special education teacher with the laughing blue eyes helps the next generation of athletes not just become great players, but great human beings. “Division I athletes are rare,” Hogan said. “You look at eligibility criteria … the higher your GPA, the lower your SAT and ACT [scores] need to be. But if you can hit 1200 on your SAT or 20 on your ACT, things start to open up to you. “You’re a coach’s dream.” For 14 years, Hogan helped cultivate character, scholarship and athletic prowess as the athletics director at Harrison High School. In July, he segued his talent for building talent into the role of athletics and activities director for all 11,700 students at Harrison School District 2. He’s the first person to hold the title, said district Public Information Officer Christine O’Brien. It’s a big job, but Hogan doesn’t flinch at it. “There are talented kids who go to school in Harrison School District and some who chose to come to Harrison School District,” he said. “The success we’re seeing comes from the work ethic of those kids and their coaches.”
A hardwood life If there’s one thing that Hogan understands, it’s hard work. The native of Plainfield, Illinois, said he first took the court-side bench at 2 years old. His father was a basketball coach, and he was raised first watching and then playing the sport. At age 14, he ruptured a disc while bending over to pick up a basketball. Hogan was diagnosed with the rare condition spina bifida occulta, and he was told it was time to give up the sport he so loved. Nonetheless, the lure of college stardom didn’t wane, and Hogan returned to the hardwood. But as he noted, Division I-caliber athletes are rare, and Hogan admits he wasn’t at that level right out of high school. He earned a spot on the team at Joliet Junior College in Joliet,
EXPRESS PHOTO/REGAN FOSTER
Dave Hogan, Harrison School District 2 director of activities and athletics, laughs while relaxing in his office.
Illinois, under the direction of thenCoach Bill Foster. “He was a pretty powerful influence for me in making me a man,” Hogan said. “He told me like it was and I had to learn to deal with that.” After graduating with an associate’s degree in general studies, Hogan headed to Northern Illinois University in the Chicago-area city of DeKalb. It was a less-than-ideal fit, and after a few years and some time away from academia, he headed to Southern Illinois University in the comparatively remote community of Carbondale, Illinois. It was there that Hogan’s education pointed him in the direction of education. “I wanted to be a PE teacher,” he said with a grin. “I took an intro. to adaptive education class and I liked it.” With a freshly minted degree in special education and a minor in physical education, Hogan headed west. His travels took him briefly to Wyoming and then south to Colorado. Harrison was the first school district in Colorado to which the husband and father applied, and he has called it home for 19 years. “People gave me a chance,” he said. “People saw how hard I worked, that I’m [here] for the right reasons and
Get in touch To learn more about partnering with the Harrison School District 2 Activities and Athletics Department on elementary school extracurricular programming, contact Director Dave Hogan at dhogan@hsd2.org or 579-2017.
… gave me the opportunities.”
Starting fresh At the Harrison helm, Hogan had plenty of opportunity to see, first-hand, the impact that out-ofclass programming has on in-class success. Students who are involved in at least three extracurricular activities tend to have significantly higher GPAs than their less-involved peers, he said. And according to the advocacy group Americans for the Arts, students who take four years of arts and music classes average almost 100 points higher on their SAT scores than those who take one-half year or less. And that’s part of why the award-winning activities advocate — his office is decorated with plaques and accommodations from organizations like the Colorado Athletics Directors Association — is committed to starting intramural sports and extracurricular arts programming for students as young as elementary school age. He intends to partner with teach-
ers, community leaders, parents and area nonprofits to grow some existing models that bring after-hours fitness and arts programs to some of the district’s more financially fluid buildings. “School has got to be more than going and sitting in a classroom. It has to be more,” he said. “Our elementary school kids go to school [and] do they work they have to do in the classroom. … We have to start providing [programming] opportunities for our elementary kids. “There also has to be the band, choir, music, art piece for that.” That’s a tall order; so what’s motivating it? “I want kids to leave Harrison and be good moms and dads if they chose to have kids. I want them to be able to go out into the community and be good community members. I want them to be of service to others,” Hogan said. “Let’s do right by the kids. Let’s provide them with opportunities.” He tapped a basketball metaphor. “You only get one chance to pass to the guy who is open,” he said. “You don’t want to miss it.” regan.foster@southeastexpress.org
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Southeast Express
CALENDAR — Compiled by Regan Foster and Lily Reavis The Southeast Express publishes events, meetings and notices of general interest for free both in print and online. Digital notices are updated on Fridays. To submit an item for consideration, email regan.foster@southeastexpress.org. Items for electronic consideration must be received by 5 p.m. the preceding Thursday; items for consideration in our print edition must be received by 5 p.m. the last Monday of the month. The Express reserves the right to edit content for style and clarity, and to determine suitability for publication.
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Hillside CommUnity Day
Aug. 1
Summer lunch at the library: 10:55 to 11:25 a.m., Sand Creek Library, 1821 S. Academy Blvd., and noon to 12:30 p.m., Ruth Holley Library, 685 N. Murray Blvd.; free to all children. Harrison School District 2 Board of Education work session: 6 p.m., district headquarters, 1060 Harrison Road.
Aug. 2
Movie Night in the Park, “Back to the Future”: 7 to 11 p.m. John Metcalfe Park, 704 E. Ohio Avenue, Fountain; free admission. Back2School SummerFest: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mission Trace, 3031 S. Academy Blvd. Back 2 School, Backpack Give Back: 1 to 2 p.m., Colorado Springs Flea Market, 5225 E. Platte Ave. One free backpack filled with school supplies per family, while supplies last.
Aug. 5
Pikes Peak Workforce Center Young Adult Interview Workshop: 4 p.m., Ruth Holley Library, 685 N. Murray Blvd.; ages 16 to 24 only, registration required at tinyurl.com/yxexgm8d.
Aug. 6
ESL computer class: 9 a.m. to noon, Sand Creek Library, 1821 S. Academy Blvd.; ppld.librarymarket.com/esl-computer-class-4.
Aug. 7
Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education work session: 4 to 6 p.m., Administration Building, 1115 N. El Paso St.
Aug. 8
Harrison School District 2 first day of school Colorado Springs School District 11 2019-20 All Community and Staff Kick Off: noon to 3 p.m., Broadmoor World Arena, 3185 Venetucci Blvd.
Aug. 9
Free fitness class: noon to 1 p.m., Pikes Peak Community College Centennial Campus, 5675 S. Academy Blvd.; 502-2555 for information.
Aug. 10
Colorado Springs Labor Day Liftoff 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Memorial Park, 1605 E. Pikes Peak Ave.
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10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mission Trace, 3031 S. Academy Blvd.
PopCycle Family Ride: 1 to 3 p.m., America The Beautiful Park, 126 Cimino Drive.
Sept. 1
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Back2School SummerFest
Aug. 4
10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hillside Community Center, 925 S. Institute St.; 719-385-7900 to host a booth or volunteer.
LIFESTYLES
Aug. 3
Aug. 3
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Hillside CommUnity Day: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Hillside Community Center, 925 S. Institute St.; 719-385-7900 to host a booth or volunteer.
Aug. 11
PopCycle Family Ride: 1 to 3 p.m., America The Beautiful Park, 126 Cimino Drive.
Aug. 12
Colorado Springs City Council work session: 1 p.m., Council Chambers, 107 N. Nevada Ave.
Aug. 13
Aug. 25
Aug. 14
Aug. 26
Colorado Springs City Council meeting: 1 p.m., Council Chambers, 107 N. Nevada Ave. Colorado Springs School District 11 classes resume. Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education regular meeting: 5:30-10 p.m., Administration Building, 1115 N. El Paso St.
Aug. 15
Harrison School District 2 Board of Education meeting: 6 p.m., district headquarters, 1060 Harrison Road.
Aug. 16
King Iso from Strange Music: 7 p.m., Sunshine Studios Live, 3970 Clear View Frontage Road; $15, holdmyticket.com.
Aug. 17
Hand Decorated Paper series, “Suminagashi” (Japanese marbling): 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., Sand Creek Library, 1821 S. Academy Blvd.; registration required, acox@ppld.org or 531-6333 ext. 6376 for more information.
Aug. 18
Colorado Springs Kids Expo 2019: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Chapel Hills Mall, 1719 Briargate Blvd.
Aug. 19
Pikes Peak Workforce Center Young Adult Interview Workshop: 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 4 to 5:30 p.m., Sand Creek Library, 1821 S. Academy Blvd.; ages 16 to 24 only, registration required. 6673700 for more information.
Aug. 20
Film Club, “The Devil We Know”: 7 to 9 p.m., Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Institute, 2727 N. Cascade Ave., Suite 140; $5 suggested donation, eventbrite.com.
Aug. 21
NAACP Colorado Springs general membership meeting: 3 p.m., Sand Creek Library, 1821 S. Academy Blvd. Pikes Peak Community College fall semester begins.
Aug. 27
Colorado Springs City Council meeting: 1 p.m., Council Chambers, 107 N. Nevada Ave.
Aug. 28
Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education regular meeting: 5:30 to 10 p.m., Administration Building, 1115 N. El Paso St.
Aug. 29
Dinner theater, “Murder in Buffalo Chip,” by Red Herring Productions: 6 p.m., Stargazers Theatre, 10 S. Parkside Drive; $49 plus ticketing fee for dinner and show, stargazerstheatre.com.
Aug. 30
Exhibit, “Fauna & Mosaics” by Radeaux: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pikes Peak Community College Downtown Studio Art Gallery, 100 W. Pikes Peak Ave.
Aug. 31
Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Memorial Park, 1605 E. Pikes Peak Ave.
Sept. 1
Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Memorial Park, 1605 E. Pikes Peak Ave.
Sept. 2 Labor Day
Sept. 3
Pikes Peak Workforce Center Young Adult Interview Workshop: 4 p.m., Ruth Holley Library, 685 N. Murray Blvd.; ages 16 to 24 only, registration required at tinyurl.com/yxexgm8d.
Hillside Gardens Summer Concert Series, Skean Dubh: 6 to 8:30 p.m., Hillside Gardens and Events Center, 1006 S. Institute St.; $8, hillsidegardensandevents.com.
Sept. 4
Aug. 22
Harrison School District 2 Board of Education work session: 6 p.m., district headquarters, 1060 Harrison Road.
“Business Plan in a Day”: 9 a.m. to noon, Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center, 559 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Suite 101; $30, pikespeaksbdc.org.
Aug. 23
21st Annual Greek Festival: 5 to 10 p.m., Archangel Michael Greek Orthodox Church, 2215 Paseo Road; free admission, contact info@amgoc.org.
Aug. 24
Colorado Springs Comic Con: 3 to 9 p.m. Aug. 26, Chapel Hills Mall, 1710 Briargate Blvd.; $10-$139.99, cscomiccon. com.
The Southeast Express gladly considers community-engagement announcements for inclusion in the community calendar and listings. Please email your items to news@southestexpress.org and include “calendar” in the subject line.
JDRF One Walk Kickoff Party: 6 to 8 p.m., Springs Adventure Park, 2512 Airport Road.
Sept. 5
Sept. 6
Art & Farmers Market: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Discover Goodwill, 1460 Garden of the Gods Road; disovermygoodwill.org. Free Concert, 6035 with Levi & Rifkin: 8 to 10 p.m., Stargazers Theatre & Event Center, 10 S. Parkside Drive. Reserve tickets at stargazerstheatre.com.
Sept. 7
The Springs Fall Home Show: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Norris Penrose Event Center, 1045 Lower Gold Camp Road..
@SoutheastExpressNews @SEExpressNews
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Discipline Continued from page 19
type of speed, you didn’t really lose [him], you know?” Goldman echoed his teammates’ goal of earning a banner this season. Personally, he hopes to gain some recognition from Division I colleges.
On the rise Ersery’s first year as head coach was promising for the Stallions. In 2018, the team went 3-7, a significant upgrade from 2017’s 1-9 record. Ersery says he has grown as a coach, learning about himself and the Sierra community with each game. “The changes that I’ve seen since he’s taken over … [have] really been discipline,” Smith said. “That’s one thing that he really stresses. He put it on the board today: ‘discipline, discipline, discipline.’ So that’s what we really needed over the past few years, and now that’s really been applied. And it’s working.” Goldman added: “[Ersery] holds us accountable for all that we do. He’s making us men. And he’s not taking discipline off the board until we get it right.” Despite his tough love-style coaching, Ersery emphasized the difference in character he’s witnessed from the team. “A few years ago, there was no
accountability, so therefore our kids kind of did what they wanted,” he said. “These guys are actually trying. There’s an honest effort here to change character.” He went on to explain that the team is “showing up for each other” by staying accountable to teammates, offering rides to and from practice and working hard to stay consistent each day. “[Football] was just another thing that I was doing just to stay out of trouble,” Goldman said. “But [Ersery] coming up as a coach made me love the sport and made me love what I’m doing. I’m more committed than I was before.” Smith said that Ersery has taught him more than just plays. “He really helped me improve my work ethic, made me work harder, made me open up my mind to bigger and better things. And not just football, I mean education and family, and that’s what I feel like I can improve on forever,” he said. “We have a lot of support around the community,” Smith continued. “And since our first game is gonna be here at home, there [will] be a lot of people expecting something big. So I just can’t wait to show them everything that we’ve been doing this summer.”
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EXPRESS PHOTO/REGAN FOSTER
A new mural celebrating the late Fannie Mae Duncan welcomes guests to the Knob Hill Arts District. The one-story painting was unveiled July 5 on the north side of Peak Furniture Sales and Rentals along Platte Avenue. The Express aims to highlight public art and unique spaces found in Southeast in each edition. Tell us about your favorite hidden gem by emailing features@southeastexpress.org.
intern@southeastexpress.org
Fresh Start Investment Program SERVING TOGETHER TO REVITALIZE SE COLORADO SPRINGS
Summer Fest Back to School
Mission Trace Community Hub
3031 S. Academy Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80916
August 3 • 10am-2pm • 30+ Community Service Providers • Free Food and Music • Free School Supplies • FREE Haircuts by HOT CUTS Visit us at SolidRockCDC.com • Follow us at • • •
• HSD2 Enrollment • Back to School Vaccines:
For more information, call (719) 578-3199 and select option 5 for Immunizations
Solid Rock Community Development Corporation
Major Sponsors • Harrison School District 2 City of Colorado Springs Solid Rock Community El Paso County Public Health • Development Corporation The Flavors Company, • South East YMCA Foundation
Fresh Start Investment Program is a free business development, entrepreneurship, and personal development program that support the formerly incarcerated and family members open to residents in southeast to become successful entrepreneurs and employees. We provide a fresh start to individuals that will enable them to become business owners and impact community.
The new business must be in SE Colorado Springs. Graduates will have everything needed to apply for a small business loan. Technical assistance is also available post-graduation.
CallRock 719.393.7625 for Development more information. Solid Community Corporation
We’re here to build a SE Colorado Springs economy that emphasizes the importance of small business development, affordable housing and infrastructure improvement which results in a healthy community environment