Distributed to the Stapleton, Park Hill, Lowry, Montclair, Mayfair, Hale and East Colfax neighborhoods DENVER, COLORADO DECEMBER 2010

Stapleton’s Winter Welcome

The “Original Dickens Carolers” entertain the crowd gathered around the Christmas tree in Staple - to right, Susana Brizuela, Dutch Miller, Kathy Kautz-Henson and Andrew Caldwell. Festivities also in - ton’s 29th Ave. Town Center for the annual Winter Welcome on November 19. The singers are, left cluded s’mores made in fire pits, toasted almonds and hot cocoa. (Story and photos on page 9.) Colorado Rapids Proudly Raise Their First MLS Championship Cup P h o t o By John Babiak b y

G apids players grew ‘playoff beards’. They a r r

e exchanged pregame verbal barbs with their t t E

l opponents. Head Coach Gary Smith played l w

o R

o the “we are the underdogs” card. Rapids’ great d Marcelo Balboa predicted the outcome and we all witnessed history in the making. Colorado 2 – Dallas 1. The Colorado Rapids, Major League Soccer Champions, at last! (continued on page 4)

Denver to Choose a New Mayor By Jon Meredith n May 3rd, Denver residents will return to the polls to choose a new mayor. Un - Olike the most recent elections, we most likely will not see a constant stream of negative ads running in the months leading up to the elec - tion. Denver residents tend to choose the candi - date who is best suited to manage and run the city well. Someone who will promise to keep our taxes low but support bond issues that will im - prove the city over time. A candidate who has the foresight to envision what Denver can be in the years to come. (continued on page 30)

At the stadium in Toronto, the Rapids celebrate their 2 – 1 overtime win over Dallas that made them the Major League Soccer champions. Printed with soy-based ink. Paper contains 40% postconsumer waste. Colorado’s New Local Mammoth Last Man on Singles Volunteer New! Recycle Chief Justice 13 Charities 14 Madness 15 the Moon 16 Organization 19 #5 Plastics 27 ¡

View of snowcapped Mt. Evans from the west side of Stapleton with a telephoto lens.

Tickets were sold for s’mores, roasted almonds, cookies from Udi’s and glow sticks. The proceeds go to Bluff Lake Kids N. Bikes Nature Center and Sand Creek Greenway. Help kids who do not have a bicycle. Join What a wonderful way to bring in the the holiday bike drive today. Kids N. holiday season and celebrate the lighting of Bikes (Kids Need Bikes!) has teamed with the Town Center. The Bike Depot to promote active If you were unable to pick up your CALENDAR lifestyles and overall health in young “Dogs of Stapleton” calendar, please stop Nearby events that are FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC or are nonprofit events. people by collecting, repairing and by the MCA and pick one up. These (See pages 20 - 23 for more events.) distributing safe bicycles to kids from calendars have our 2011 Events listed low-income families in Park Hill and inside. surrounding neighborhoods. With your help, many could have one for Christmas! Stapleton Activities, Inc. DECEMBER DECEMBER Located at 2825 Fairfax St. in Park The monthly potluck for December is Hill, not far from Stapleton, The Bike cancelled. This get-together will resume Depot is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit January 27, after the holidays. Every Tuesday Saturday, December 11 organization dedicated to improving Stapleton Rotary Club, 7:30-8:30am Holiday Brass Fest. DCPA Galleria heath disparities in the Denver metro Name the New Pool Speakers on varying subjects Free public concert, 1pm area. Gather up your old, used and Stapleton MCA Community Room, www.denverbrass.org Next summer, the MCA will open its 2823 Roslyn St.; RSVP Gregg Tomlinson rejected bikes and encourage your friends, fourth outdoor swimming pool in Filing 303.725.9447 or neighbors and co-workers to do so, and 19. We are looking to the community to [email protected] Saturday, December 11 then bring your used bike, no matter the help us name this pool. We will be holding www.denverstapletonrotary.org Hammonds Candy Cane Festival, 9am-5pm Caroling, cookie decorating and more.. condition or size, to The Bike Depot. a naming contest over the next few 5735 N. Washington St. Denver. Check www.thebikedepot.org for hours of months. If you have a name suggestion for Friday, December 3 www.hammondscandies.com 303.333.5588 x10 operation. our fourth pool, please email Santa Fe Arts District Art Walk, 6 –9pm Bicycles can be dropped off through [email protected] Holiday luminarias between 6th & 10th December 15 at the Stapleton MCA with your idea before January 14, 2011. on Santa Fe. www.artdistrictonSantafe.com Sunday, December 12 Tuba Christmas Concert, 1pm, office located at 2823 Roslyn Street, We will take the suggestions and select Skyline Park, 16th and Arapahoe. Monday through Friday between 9am- five choices. If your suggestion is one of Saturday, December 4 www.tubachristmas.com 4pm. Call Nancy at 303.489.7870 if you the five, you will win a $10 gift certificate Volunteer Cleanup at Bluff Lake have any questions. to one of our 29th Avenue Town Center Bluff Lake parking lot, 9am (Cancelled if temp. below freezing) Friday, December 31 merchants. If there are duplicate Lucia 720.207.5091 Annual NewYear’s Eve Downtown Active Minds Seminar suggestions, we will use the first one we Fireworks display The Active Minds Seminar this month is receive via email. Shows at 9pm and midnight. 16th Street Mall Saturday, December 4 on Thursday, December 9, at 7pm. We We will post the five choices online at SCFD 1st Saturdays Free –Denver Art Museum are hosting the Active Minds Seminars in www.stapletoncommunity.com January 17 www.denverartmuseum.org the Stapleton MCA Community Room at and the community can vote for their JANUARY 2823 Roslyn Street. The doors will open favorite. The person who suggests the at 6:30pm and the seminar will begin at winning choice will win a $50 gift Monday, December 6 Saturday, January 1 certificate to their favorite 29th Avenue SCFD Free Day –Denver Museum of Nature SCFD 1st Saturdays Free –Denver Art Museum 7pm. This program is free and open to and Science 303-322-7009 www.dmns.org www.denverartmuseum.org the public. Town Center merchant. The December topic is Chocolate. The Tuesday, December 7 Tuesday, January 4 story of chocolate is a “rich” tale indeed. It 2011 Movies Children's Museum, Target Tuesdays Children's Museum, Target Tuesdays involves aristocracy and slavery, If you have a suggestion for a movie you 1st Tuesday nights free, 4 –8pm, cmdenver.org 1st Tuesday nights free, 4 – 8pm, cmdenver.org innovation and coincidence. Pivotal roles would like to see in The Green next were played by both Christopher summer, please email Wednesday, December 8 Thursday, January 13 Columbus and Hernando Cortéz. Join [email protected] with Venture Prep Open House, 6:30 – 7:30pm Active Minds, "Switzerland" 7 – 8pm Active Minds® to learn how extremely your idea. 2540 Holly Street MCA Community Room* bitter cacao beans are transformed into www.ventureprep.org (see p. 23) [email protected] one of the world’s most sought after Community Room Closed flavors and enjoy chocolate stories about The Stapleton MCA Community Room Thursday, December 9 Friday, January 14 the rise of the Swiss luxury chocolate will be closed December through January. Active Minds,"Chocolate" 7 – 8pm Deadline for 4th Pool Naming Contest, 5pm industry and the origins of the Hershey We will be doing some renovations and MCA Community Room* Email: [email protected] Company. [email protected] will reopen for rentals in February. If you The topic for January is Switzerland, have any questions about this, please call Monday, January 17 to be held January 13, at 7pm. For more our office at 303.388.0724. Voting begins for 4th Pool Naming Contest, about Active Minds, go to h 10am. www.stapletoncommunity.com http://www.activemindsforlife.com/index. If you have any questions or comments t Porc f Fron ions o t html. about the information above, please feel The bmiss forma es su (see Thursday, January 27 free to contact elcom vents as w cal e y ide Stapleton Activities, Inc. Potluck, 6:30—8pm ing lo stor Winter Welcome [email protected] or call om and s. m MCA Community Room* upc .19) ssue ail.co The MCA wishes to thank everyone for a the MCA office at 303.388.0724. n p re i @gm o futu leton [email protected] for hStap wonderful Winter Welcome. Denver tPorc l Fron Emai School of the Arts students once again Diane Deeter *MCA Community Room: decorated our 29th Avenue Town Center Director of 2823 Roslyn Street, Denver, CO 80238 merchants’ doors. Programming and Events (See page 20 for recurring monthly events and meetings)

Sponsored by Stapleton MCA

EDITORS and PUBLISHERS: The Stapleton Front Porch is published by Stapleton Carol Roberts and Steve Larson Front Porch, LLC, 2566 Syracuse St., Denver, CO. 303-526-1969 Typically 30,000 –35,000 papers are printed. The free [email protected] paper is distributed during the first week of each month AD SALES: Karissa McGlynn 303-333-0257 to homes and businesses in Stapleton, Park Hill, Lowry, [email protected] www.FrontPorchStapleton.com Montclair, Mayfair, Hale and East Colfax.

December 2010 2 Stapleton Front Porch Stapleton Front Porch 3 December 2010 At the rally in Skyline Park in downtown MLS Champs Denver, the (continued from page 1) Rapids players took Thirteen years ago, under rainy skies turns holding in Washington’s RFK Stadium, D.C. up their United denied the ’97 Colorado Rapids silver MLS Champions the right to be called MLS Champs. On cup. At left, October 21st, in downtown Toronto, the Steward 2010 Rapids rose to the occasion. They Ceus, the came from behind, then fought off a 13- Rapids back- minute overtime barrage of incoming up goalie, takes his turn shots made while the Rapids were down with the a player—and went on to earn their first cup—to the MLS Cup in the longest season finale in cheers of the the history of the MLS. crowd. During a postgame interview, a bruised and battered Coner Casey, the game’s Most Valuable Player, described the match with two words, “not pretty” Ch Indeed it was not. But the final score is eck o vide ut ou what ultimately counts and the Rapids o at r Fr ww prevailed. ontP w. Sta orch Down one nil at the close of the half, pleto n.co the Rapids started the second with a m surge and equalized the game on a quick pass from midfielder Jamie Smith to the goal. From there on out the game became right of the 18 yard box. Kanji threw Be - is a sustained effort by the Rapids organi - goal box that a sliding Casey first even more physical and confrontational. In niez off balance with a textbook stepover zation.” And that is music to the ears of missed—and then finished off with a de - the first extra period, Rapids forward Omar move, then “nutmegged” him with a pass every Rapids’ fans. termined toe-kick while lying practically Cummings pulled up lame—and Gary Smith to himself through Beniez’s wide open During the evening rally, players on his back, sending the ball into the inserted the 6’ 4’’ Macoumba “Big Mac” legs. Kanji then toe poked the ball at the hoisted the Philip F. Anschutz Champi - Kandji into goal. The ball deflected off of Dallas’ onship Trophy (made by Tiffany & Co.) the game. George John into the net—and the rest is above their heads to the delight of the The substi - now history. crowd. Elated kids touched the sterling-sil - tution paid The game-winning shot did come at a ver cup that made the rounds of a few bars huge divi - certain cost to the Rapids. During Kanji’s in Toronto—and even our own Children’s dends for shot, Dallas’ Ugo Ihemelu crashed into Hospital. From the players’ grandstand, Smith. Kanji’s left knee and the resulting injury they tossed out Rapids scarves and t-shirts Two min - has left Kanji with a torn ACL. by the dozens. They signed hundreds of utes into Paul Bravo, the Rapids Technical Di - autographs and delivered too-numerous- the second rector and member of the 1997 Rapids to-count high fives to their faithful fans. It extra pe - MLS Cup playoff team, told me that was a memory-making moment for both riod, Casey when he was brought in, “winning cham - the team and their guests. lobbed a pionships and trophies” was his priority. Let’s hope that this celebration is the cross pass Bravo, in my opinion, has been the chief start of something big here in Colorado. to Kandji, architect of today’s Colorado Rapids. He, Cheers to the Rapids, North America’s who then along with Managing Director Jeff Plush Major League Soccer Champions! took on and Head Coach Gary Smith, created this John Babiak is a Stapleton resident. He Dallas de - championship team. Plush put it best at coaches U7-U11 boys and girls for the Col - A group of locals at the Berkshire restaurant in Stapleton’s Town Center react to fender Jair the Rapids’ Rally in Denver the day after orado Fusion Soccer Club. He also serves on the Rapids’ winning goal during overtime in the MLS championship game. In the Beniez their return from Toronto when he said, the club’s board of directors. He can be foreground are Bethany and Michael King; behind them are, left to right, Sarintra from the “I aim to see that winning championships reached at [email protected]. Saklunamaka, Gerry Coady and Michael Clark.

December 2010 4 Stapleton Front Porch Stapleton Front Porch 5 December 2010 Editors’ note: We’re sorry we don’t have Bicycle basket liners keep items in your bike space for ALL the wonderful local artists Unique Holiday Gift Ideas basket and convert to an attractive handbag and craftspeople. If you don’t find the per - Betty Basket Liners, fect gift here, we hope this list will help in - www.bettybasketliners.com your Blue Creek gift certificate to give the Handcrafted jewelry spire another unique idea. Consider also gift of health, discounts, goody bags, mini- Jewelry using Children’s Clothing and Accessories our list of local charities on page 14 as treatments and more. 303.573.7484 part of your holiday giving. beads that sup - Handcrafted locally made baby and children’s Dec. 15th —Holiday Hand Made Open port a cause clothing can be found at Naturally Loved, Holiday Gift Markets House, 5:30 –7:30pm. A wide assortment of whenever possi - 7349 E 29th Ave., 303.955.6207. ble. Affordable beautiful handmade products; light refresh - Clothing and accessories for little girls and one-of-a-kind Dec. 1st and 2nd —Dizzie Izzie’s Hip ments served. Naturally Loved, 7349 E 29th babies. Spunky, wearable clothing including pieces by Renee Phillips of Embelish Jewelry. Holiday Market, 4:30 – 9pm. 9201 Ave., 303.955.6207. dresses, skirts, tees, tutus, blankets, www.embelish. etsy.com East 33rd Ave (parking across the street bathrobes, and more made by Dizzie Izzie. in the lot). Numerous vendors, wine, Local Art and Handcrafted Items Unique handmade jewelry; custom orders to www.dizzieizzie.com. desserts, and shopping galore. Special fit your needs from Jennifer Lane Designs. treats for any guys that come to Men’s Custom paintings , vibrant www.etsy.com/shop/jknopf03, www.thejen - Custom Inscribed Preferred Shopping Night on Dec. 2nd. mixed media works on can - niferlane designs.com. Women are also welcome on the vas and wood panel, by Books by Local 2nd. Stapleton resident Lizzie Handcrafted mosaics for garden enthusiasts Authors Mara Kienast who creates including bird baths, pots, garden stakes Dec. 4th —Chickee Monkey Open Cookbook —A person - personal works for clients and herb markers by Sarah Christian, House,11-3pm. 10103 E. 29th ally autographed that often tell special Urban Gardens, Inc. www.urbangar - Ave. Chickee Monkey is a hand- copy of Glorious stories, such as anniver - densinc.com; [email protected] - crafted children’s line started by Sta - One-Pot Meals by saries, retirements, 303.320.0392 pleton Mom Christine Villapando, graduations, and holidays. elisa - Elizabeth Yarnell, an featuring items from ruffled onesies, [email protected] Paintings and handcrafted items by local artists award-winning cookbook author fancy tie T-shirts, character backpacks, can be found at Art and Framing at Staple - who lives in Stapleton with her family. tutu dance bags, beautiful hair acces - Mixed media assemblages or collages ton. 7483 E. 29th Pl., 29th Ave. Town GloriousOnePotMeals.com. Save shipping by sories, whimsical wall art and more... with fabric and other found objects Center at Stapleton. contacting Elizabeth directly Price range from $3 to $100. www.chic - by Lyn Dilorenzo of Soulful home. www.artandfram - 303.830.COOK (2665). keemonkey.com 303.870.0429. $15 to approx. $65. Check Soulful ingstapleton.com; Children’s book (ages 1-4)— Birds Like You by Home on Facebook or lin@artandframingsta - Stapleton resident Kathryn Epperson. The Dec. 5th —Blue Creek Holiday Extrava - www.etsy.com/shop/soulfulhome ganza. 7350 E. 29th Ave Ste 204, Den - pleton.com book explores the ver 80238. Holiday shopping with a things and activities select group of vendors, You can also get that different birds like and concludes with an expression of kinship and be - longing. Buy from Amazon and $12 Haircut for Dad email [email protected] to Present coupon before haircut. May not be bartered, traded, copied, or sold. Not valid with any other offer. arrange for a custom inscription. Look Good Stapleton location only. EXPIRES 12/31/10. Code 2990 Give a Unique Gift Certificate For the Here’s a starter list for services you might not $10 Haircut for Son have considered. Consider also gift certificates to Present coupon before haircut. May not be bartered, our local merchants: a favorite restaurant, local Holidays! traded, copied, or sold. Not valid with any other offer. Stapleton location only. EXPIRES 12/31/10. Code 2995 theatres (see our local events section), flowers or house cleaning. In Quebec Square next to McDonald's 3700 Quebec St. 303-399-8200

December 2010 6 Stapleton Front Porch The gift of creativity The gift of pictures A two-hour, Paint Modern photography of families and chil - by Wine class dren in a relaxed environment Molly Garg where beginners Photography www.mollygarg New Stores at Northfield leave with a photography.com. masterpiece. Acasha King Photography. www.acashaking - $35. Bring photography.com; Acasha King, your bever - [email protected]; 303.887.5897. age. Regular classes or private parties. Art & Framing The gift of fitness at Stapleton, 7483 E. 29th Place; 303-534- 1979; www.PaintbyWine.com. Total-body conditioning class that incorpo - rates your stroller so you can bring your kid - Painting classes—acrylics, watercolor or dos along. Stroller Strides classes are in drawing for adults or children; will customize Central Park and City Park during warmer for individual requests. www.startartkids.com months and at Bladium Sports Club during 720-227-4907. the winter. 10 class package special $95. Erin Johns, www.strollerstrides.net/denver The gift of a massage CrossFit (a fitness program based on con - Natural Balance Integrative Health. stantly varied, functional movements, done www.nbihdenver.com; 303-355-0363; 3055 at high intensity). Twelve one-hour introduc - Roslyn St., Suite 120. 25% off Gift Certifi - tory classes. Holiday Special $135 (regularly cates through Dec. 24. $200). Aaron, CrossFit Dominion, 720-381- Therapeutic massages for couples in your 0728 Bobbi’s Boutique – Handbags, custom Nature’s Touch – Rustic log furni - home or at 29th Ave Nail Salon. $100 for and costume jewelry. ture, including chairs, beds and The gift of memories Creative Memories scrap - two one-hour massages. Denise 303-956- tables made from local resources. booking supplies and monthly scrapbooking 1912. Calendar Club – 2011 wall and desk calen - events from Rachel Fields $10-$100. 720- dars, games and more. Open through Rustic Ranch Relics – Unique items The gift of organization 935-7611; fields-creativemem @comcast.net; mid-January. to complement your home from www.mycmsite.com/rachelfields hand-painted fresco furniture to Organizing and decluttering your home or Cell Accessories – Hard and soft cases, rocking chairs, spur towel rings to office, developing office systems and space The gift of music protectors and other accessories for mo - western bedding, iron and antler solutions, and providing corporate and resi - Private and group piano lessons in Stapleton bile phones. lighting and more. New items ar - dential moving assistance by Simply Put, Or - (all ages, all styles) from David Ross Piano riving every few weeks. ganizational Solutions for the Home, LLC. Studio. Holiday sale: Buy 1 trial lesson, re - Frames Paradise – Pictures, frames, rugs First 2 hours for the price of one, $75. Addi - ceive next lesson 1/2 off or 10% off full tu - and more for your home. Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill tional hours 20% off. MeighanMeekerOrga - ition if you pay for semester by January 1st. Rowdy atmosphere inspired by nizer. com; 303-321-2692. Jewelry Expressions – Fashion, custom 303-507-0906; [email protected] the music and attitude of the “Big and fun jewelry and accessories for less. Personalized organizational services and de- Dog Daddy” himself, Toby Keith. Learn to play guitar at Olson & Smith Gui - cluttering of home, office, garage, etc.—also Down-home cooking and live tar Studio in Stapleton. Choose the number Kosmima Jewelry – Handcrafted authen - help with parties and events. $50/hour – free bands. of lessons you’ll give. $25 and up. Contact tic jewelry made in Europe, primarily initial consultation. Ms. Efficiency, ms_effi - Natasha Olson at 720.318.7854 or email Sta - Greece. Bracelets, necklaces, rings and [email protected] Toys R Us Express – Offering toys, [email protected]. earrings. Kosmima means jewelry in games and gifts for kids of all Greek. A gift for someone who is unemployed —Re - ages—open during the holiday A landscape design consultation by Sarah Chris - sume writing, help with LinkedIn profiles season through mid-January. tian www.urbangardensinc.com; schrist - Menchie’s Yogurt – Opening Dec.18. A and interview preparation assistance by Side [email protected]; 303.320.0392 rotating selection of frozen yogurt fla - Door Pursuit. Resume is typically 3-4 hours vors. Toppings from fresh, locally grown at $35/hr. www.sidedoorpursuit.com; shan - fruits to classic rainbow sprinkles and [email protected]; 303-882-0412 hot fudge.

Did You Know? Tooth decay is the 2nd most common disease in the U.S. after the common cold!

ONLY $75 FREE! Child exam, Infant oral health Pediatric dentists undergo an additional two cleaning, and screening. Exam years of training in order to specifically meet fluoride for and cleaning for the needs of children. At Stapleton Children’s new patients. children up to Dentistry we ensure a positive experience to A $95 savings. 18 months old. establish a lifetime of healthy dental habits. X-rays are extra.

Alfaiyaz Ibrahim, DDS • 2373 Central Park Blvd., Suite 305 • Denver, CO 80238 303.399.KIDS (5437) • www.stapletonkids.com We accept all major PPO insurance programs • Flexible hours for appointments

Stapleton Front Porch 7 December 2010 Making Hard Times a Little Easier Local Businesses Reach Out to People with Cancer Stapleton Home Services and Lowry Home Services provide free cleaning to women undergoing treatment for cancer through the non-profit foundation Cleaning For A Reason. Fighting cancer is Brett Purdom, of Santa’s Best Christmas Trees, talks to customers about the differ - difficult enough but, as stated at ent size trees he offers. The papers hanging from the trees explain his program to CleaningForAReason.org, living give a free tree to those in the Front Porch distribution area who are undergoing with it is even tougher. This non - cancer treatments. profit arranges for free professional housecleaning and maid services to improve the lives of cancer took his mother just one month after his women undergoing treatment for any type of cancer. father died. Purdom, himself, was injured in a For information on how to apply for this service visit roadway accident en route home after clearing his www.cleaningforareason.org. parents’ house and he became a quadriplegic. A second business, Santa’s Best Christmas Trees, will People in cancer treatment can make arrange - provide cancer patients in the Front Porch distribution ments for a free tree by emailing Purdom at san - area with a free 5- or 6-foot Christmas tree from their [email protected]. Or friends and lot at Roslyn Street and East 29th Avenue in the Staple - neighbors can make the arrangements with Pur - ton Town Center. dom to take a tree to a friend. When they come Santa’s Best Trees owner Brett Purdom knows the to pick up their tree, Purdom will also provide a difficulties families face when cancer hits a family mem - 3-foot-tall pink-flocked tree for their front porch, ber. Prostate cancer took his father in 2008, and lung if they wish.

s at Fa deo “F ceb r vi om ront ook ss ou n.c F Porc : mi leto un id h N on’t Stap eas f ewsp D rch or we aper tPo ekend ” Fron acti vities

IS YOUR AD ON THE COFFEE TABLE or in the recycling bin?

Advertise in a paper that people really read. FrontPorchStapleton.com 30-35,000 copies distributed free to NE Denver during the first week of each month. Email [email protected] or call Karissa at 303.333.0257 or 303.526.1969.

WishingWishing youyou ourour bestbest .. .. Lana Dardano || Tammy Morran || Ken Greenfield || Eric Welch || Lisa Chabot

Available Available New Price

7489 E. 29th Pl. . . . ESTABLISHED 1834 Magnolia 7850 E. 29th 2998 Elmira $239,499 $254,900 $215,000 2003 Recently Sold: 7671 E. 26th • 3646 High • 2967 Forest • 2843 Havana • 11000 Yarrow • 2500 S. Jackson M 9246 E. 35th Ave. • 2833 Spruce • 9027 E. 35th Ave. • 6526 Pierson • 3171 Hanover • 3333 High • 7982 E. 29th

December 2010 8 Stapleton Front Porch Ch eck o vide ut ou o at r Fr ww ontP w. Stap orch leton .com Thousands Enjoy Stapleton’s Winter Welcome By Carol Roberts celebrate the holiday season, it was a Bicycles for Kids (in conjunction with the that had been made by students from Den - he crowd at the Winter Welcome was fundraiser for Bluff Lake Nature Center and Park Hill Bike Depot) collected bikes to be ver School for the Arts. Retailers offered estimated at over 3,000 by Diane Sand Creek Regional Greenway. Profits given to kids who don’t have one. Bikes can specials; the Biscuit Bus and Fat Sully’s bus TDeeter, Director of Events and Pro - from the sale of fresh roasted almonds, be dropped off at the MCA office at 2823 offered fast food; and the “Dogs of Staple - gramming for the Stapleton Master Commu - s’mores and cookies were donated to these Roslyn Street through December 15. ton” calendars containing Stapleton events nity Association (MCA) and organizer of the organizations. “Decorated trees” walked the Lin Clark of Stapleton Art and Framing for 2011 were handed out as the winning event. The gathering was more than an op - sidewalks selling glow sticks to kids to further organized the door decor contest—attendees and runner-up dogs mingled in the crowd. portunity for the community to gather and contribute to the fun and the fundraiser. voted on decorations at 29th Ave. retailers “It’s a great community event,” said Deeter.

Children and families roasted marshmallows over open fires and made s’mores at five fire pits. A crowd estimated at over 3000 gathered in the 29th Ave. Town Center for the Winter Welcome.

.. thisthis HolidayHoliday Season.Season. L Samantha Dardano || Jon Mauck || Rhett Adams || Eric Carr || Vita Dardano

N Available Available Available

2 7905 E. 28th 2972 Magnolia 911 Pontiac Metro Brokers at Stapleton $529,000 $222,900 $295,000 303.331.6700 More Homes Available: Stop by our convenient street-level office 9837 Sunset Hill • 261 Quari • 9845 Sunset Hill Cr. • 4100 Albion in the Stapleton 29th Ave. Town Center. www.4denverrealestate.com

Stapleton Front Porch 9 December 2010 Views on the Marissa: Erika: My Every favorite What cha r year for charitable about organiza - the last tion is 15 Marissa & Justin Ross, Maraeya, 6, Justin Michael Jr., 3 Bluff Lake years, Nature Erika Walker & Don Weinshenker with Stephen, 15 Carrie Louise Daenell & Debbie Engle with Jordan, 7 my mom, sister and I have adopted a family for Christ - Center and I work there in two capacities. I’m a volunteer Carrie: Our family supports The Gathering Place, which is a day mas. We talk to an organization that has families in naturalist there so one morning a week I work with school resource center for homeless and poverty-stricken mothers and need. We opt to provide the family with specific gifts groups who come out for field trips. And I’m also on the their children. It’s located on High Street right off Colfax. We do rather than just donating money to the organization. board of directors. If people are interested in teaching they a supply drive at home and this year we’re going to have a big We purchase King Soopers gift cards along with mit - can work with school groups. We also have volunteers called party for all our friends and neighbors and everybody’s going to tens, hat and gloves for the whole family. We’ve done Ambassadors are there to greet people and answer questions. bring goodies and go shopping for the women and the children. MP3 players for the teenagers a nd an outfit for the We also have volunteers called the Weed Warriors that do a And then at my office we do a supply drive there too, which was mom. We ask for individualized information from the lot of work with the landscaping. Bluff Lake is a private non- advertised in the Front Porch. Jordan and I just finished formu - organization about what they need and want. profit organization—people to become members, which pro - lating a physician-quality, chewable multi-vitamin for those kids Justin: I’ve been a member of the Citizens Advisory vides financial support. and we’re going to be putting that at the Gathering Place as well, Board for almost seven years and a co-chair for the pre - Don Weinshenker: We’re Friends of the Denver Public Li - because we want them to have healthy life nutrition. We’re going vious two years. Every year about this time the Citizens braries. We feel like the public library system is one of the to sell them for other children and do that as a fundraiser to Advisory Board, our governing body here at Stapleton, foundations of our civilation, so we feel it’s extraordinarily make buying more and more of those vitamins for The Gather - looks for new volunteers. Commitments are minimum, important to support that. ing Place a sustainable long-term project. The Gathering Place is Also for not quite a year I’ve been president of the Erika: There isn’t enough money coming in from tax revenue looking for specific items from their needs list, which are non- Greater Stapleton Business Association, which I’ve been to support the libraries so increasingly they are going to need perishable food items, diapers, sippie cups, formula, wipies, and a member of almost seven years as well. The GSBA is to rely on support from citizens to keep the libraries open. I emergency clothing that is brand new, like bras and underwear looking for members to help make this area aware of think it’s a cause that many people don’t think about, they and socks for children and women. the small businesses that are in the neighborhood. just kind of assume the library is going to be there, but it’s Jordan: We’re going to try to get as much stuff as we can. something we all could benefit by supporting.

December 2010 10 Stapleton Front Porch Street itable or community organization do you support?

Editors note: We randomly stopped six families at the Winter Welcome in Stapleton’s 29 th Ave. Town Center on November 19th. One was not from the area and chose not to participate. The other five all supported a cause and agreed to share that information with our readers.

Jason & Kelly Wesoky with Jen & Alex Gordon with Sawyer, 1, and Caitlyn, 3 Spencer, 7, and Quinn, 3 Jason: Every month I give to Environment Jen: Our volunteering this year is at the Colorado, a pro-environment conservation Denver Children’s Home. We’re having the group. They do lobbying. They work on boys learn a little bit about some kids who government initiatives in the state of Col - are less fortunate and we have chosen to sup - orado to protect and preserve the environ - port two kids at the Denver Children’s ment. I also give to my alma mater, Miami Home. One is a boy who is 17 and one is a University. I give specifically to a swimming girl who is 13. The just ask that kids have a scholarship to increase the number of schol - list of things that they would like that they’re arships for people who get to swim at not able to get, so we’re going to purchase Miami University in Ohio. those things for the kids and have the boys take them over and give them to the kids.

11 Stapleton Front Porch December 2010 By Nancy Burkhart ew people would say they don’t have fun at the Denver Zoo—time is hap - three-day training period that requires at - Fpily spent relaxing and communicating tendance at sessions on a Thursday with the animals. Some go further and de - evening, Saturday and Sunday. velop a bond with the Denver Zoo’s mission Volunteers will have to commit to to the public and animal conservation and working at least 50 hours a year and to become zoo volunteers. attending a minimum of four of the nine Nancy Noll and Ellen Rabinowitz retired business meetings offered each year that in Denver after moving here from New York. include talks by the zoo’s head veterinar - They have been zoo ambassadors for the last ian, the CEO, or an animal demonstra - two years. tion. Many volunteers log many more “We work at the main gate taking tickets than the required number of hours. and greeting people,” Rabinowitz explained. “We’ve done about 800 hours in two We work in different offices doing filing or years,” Rabinowitz said of her volun - mailing projects. Right now we’re cataloging Denver Zoo ambassadors Nancy Noll, left, and Ellen Rabinowitz recruit potential volunteers Amy teerism and Noll’s. donations for our holiday auction.” Van Deren and Meg Glatthar at aVolunteer Open House and Information Session held last summer. “And we’re not any example of out - “We’re frequently reuniting parents with standing,” Noll pointed out. children,” she said. “Usually the children are Denver Zoo Has a Volunteer Niche for (Almost) Everyone Volunteer schedules are flexible. The perfectly calm, but the parents or grandpar - work hours can include days, evenings ents are excited.” Zoo Lights, schools, senior centers or com - “Our volunteers volunteer here because and/or weekends. Noll and Rabinowitz have been impressed munity centers. However, volunteers are not they like to be around people, they like to be “The volunteer creates the schedule,” with the Denver Zoo’s “green” philosophy. allowed to enter the habitats to pet big cats around animals, and they are committed to Panos said. “The volunteer picks when “What we love best about the Denver or rub the wrinkles on a rhinoceros. being around the conservation that the zoo they want to come and what they want Zoo is that it has no waste—they don’t waste Some volunteers work as keeper assistants has,” she said. “If volunteers are numbers to do. We find them something that fits.” time, they don’t waste money, they don’t in kitchen areas and sometimes go out in the people or data people, it would be good for “You need to be outgoing,” Rabi - waste waste,” Noll said. “Everything is recy - yard and clean when animals aren’t there, them to work in the office. But 95 percent of nowitz advised potential zoo volunteers. cled. The Denver Zoo is the greenest zoo in Panos said. the opportunities for volunteers here are out “You need to love animals and people. the country. Everything is recyclable or com - “It’s one of the options in the ambassador in the park somewhere working with people.” You have to want to give back to your postable. It’s one of the outstanding things category,” she said. “Being a keeper assistant Volunteers at all levels receive extensive, community and you have to believe in about the zoo.” is based on availability in those areas. The ongoing training at the zoo. what the Denver Zoo is doing.” While they don’t work directly with ani - job has to fit with volunteers’ schedules and “The training is learning about the leader - For Denver Zoo volunteer informa - mals, Noll and Rabinowitz have become interests. It isn’t something that you just ship and the structure of the zoo, and about tion, go to www.denverzoo.org, email Jan knowledgeable about zoo life. come in and do right away.” the education and volunteer services depart - Waterman, volunteer program specialist, “We’re wandering all over before and after All volunteers receive extensive, ongoing ments,” Panos explained. “It’s learning about at [email protected] or call her our shift because you want to be familiar training that starts with a Volunteer Open important trends in zoos, and being familiar at 303.376.6719. with the zoo,” Noll said. House and Information Session. with our own zoo, There are three categories of volunteers at our plans and the zoo, according to Angie Panos, volunteer why we’re here. A Volunteer Open House and manager of the Denver Zoological Founda - We spend a lot of Information Session will be held tion. Ambassadors do indoor and outdoor time with cus - from 10:30am to noon on Jan. 22 physical work, clerical and office support and tomer services in the Gates Education Building customer activities. Guides are trained to ex - and guest rela - at the Denver Zoo. plain things that are going on at the zoo with tions training. We zoo guests. Docents receive more training to want volunteers explain the zoo and the animals to zoo “The purpose of the Volunteer Open to be comfortable guests, she explained. House and Information Session is to give and confident The Denver Zoo has about 575 adult vol - prospective volunteers enough information that they are giv - unteers. However, the only volunteers who to say ‘yes’ to volunteering at the zoo, or to ing appropriate are directly involved with animals are do - say, ‘I don’t think it’s going to be for me,’” information.” cents who go through handler training with Panos said. “If it’s someone who wants to In the begin - AmyVan Deren gets a close-up look at a shingleback skink from Australia, animals such as snakes, rabbits and hedge - feed the giraffes, they will learn that they’re ning, volunteers held by Denver Zoo Docent Brinda Parsons-Hier at last summer’s open hogs. They do live animal demonstrations at not going to be happy. go through a house for those interested in serving as zoo volunteers.

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December 2010 12 Stapleton Front Porch arranged marriage. They all have different backgrounds, Michael Bender, New different perspectives and they’re all very capable in many different ways. It’s an interesting process. The goal is to be Chief Justice of the as collegial as possible and the whole is better than the sum of its parts. Colorado Supreme Court You do your homework, you ask yourself what’s right and what’s fair, and follow precedent and you reach a par - By Carol Roberts ticular conclusion. It’s hard to say, after a lot of study, that olorado’s new Supreme Court Chief Justice someone who reaches the opposite conclusion is equally Michael Bender graciously set aside time for an as right as you, and you have to respect that. That’s a dif - Cinterview with the Front Porch on a Sunday af - ficult personal thing to do.” ternoon. We’re glad we caught him before he started Michael Bender was born in the Bronx, went to Dart - his new position on December 1 because, as he says, mouth, and majored in philosophy and literature. During “The new job will change my life.” As Chief Justice, he a college summer he worked in construction in Yellow - will continue to be a judge and write opinions, but he stone and fell in love with the West. “I had never seen a will also have responsibilities similar to those of a CEO mountain,” he says. “I decided to do something different of a big company: 3,400 employees, a budget of almost Chief Justice Michael Bender and Helen Hand in their Stapleton home. than all my family back East.” So, after college he went $300 million and the supervision of over 300 judges. the most important part of the courthouse. The learning center straight to law school at CU in Boulder. His first job was as a “I think the job requires a vision for the future about where will have hands-on educational materials about the three public defender in Denver. He subsequently worked as a criminal the system is going, and it also requires an ability to lead the branches of government and also about the history of the rule of defense lawyer in private practice and then for the EEOC litiga - whole branch as a group,” says Bender. “You become the law, the constitution, and the aspects of the judicial system, the tion center in Denver. He was appointed to the Supreme Court spokesperson of the third branch of government and you act as third branch, that are unique to the state of Colorado. It’ll be in February 1997. Bender lives in Stapleton with his wife Helen the internal administrator of the Supreme Court and how it op - geared to 8th grade and up and it will be geared to the statewide Hand, who is the president of Colorado Free University. They erates. It’s a major responsibility and undertaking. It’s the great - public school curriculum.” have five children and five grandchildren. est honor of my life—but it’s no small task.” We asked Justice Bender if there were any surprises when he That said, what Justice Bender talks most passionately about became a part of the Colorado Supreme Court? is the fair and rigorous system that Colorado uses to select judges “One surprise was that as an individual Supreme Court jus - and how important it is that citizens understand the role of the tice you have very little power. The first week I was there I was Judiciary as the third branch of government. He points out that the only justice in the building and we got a writ that, if I were a a valuable source of information is the speakers bureau, “Our trial judge, I think I would have denied it in less than 20 seconds Courts,” and recommends that people visit www.ourcourtscol - after reading it. But I really couldn’t do that because every major orado.org to learn how our judges are selected. Another website decision you have to make on the court requires at least three he recommends for readers is http://CourtsNoPlaceForPolitics. and sometimes four votes of the members. So I couldn’t do any - org/, which explains Colorado’s judicial selection process. thing. It was kind of a recognition of how we are a group and The state’s new judicial complex in Denver is scheduled to be how we only make joint decisions. You have the power to speak completed in the spring of 2013 and Bender has, for five years, in terms of dissent, you have a forum, and you have a pulpit, but been involved in its planning and is excited about what it will in terms of actually making law or making decisions that are offer Coloradans. “In the new judicial building, there is going be binding, it’s a group decision. a learning center next to the three courtrooms. It’s going to be “For the people who are making these decisions it’s a bit of an

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Did you know that psychoneuroimmunologists have actually studied the effects of simple random acts of kindness? Not only on commit - ting and receiving those acts, but even on those witnessing random acts of kindness? You guessed it—it is actually good for you. For your mood, your spirit and for your immune system too. Pay it forward, spread the love and remember... thinking about giving accomplishes far less than following through on your intentions. Take action and everyone wins! Here's to a season of joy, giving and gratitude.

The Gathering Place Supply Drive From now until the end of the year - in our office Food, Toiletries, Diapers, and Formula Drop-off Tue –Thurs from 10am –5pm

13 Stapleton Front Porch December 2010 Donate on Colorado Gives Day, December 8, (and increasing with other corporate Holiday Giving in NE Denver and your gift will be increased. donations). “Colorado Gives Day is an The need is great this year and even small donations help. If you’ve been putting Join other Coloradans to help raise $1 million initiative of Community First Foundation off making a charitable contribution, now is the time to take advantage of incen - for Colorado Charities on December 8 and we are their partner in this effort tives for both the giver and the recipient organization. and your gift will be increased through to help Coloradans raise $1 million Those who give to nonprofits that provide child care can get a hefty credit on their state an “incentive fund.” for Colorado charities,” says Rob tax return through the Colorado Child Care Credit. And charities that receive donations on Make your donation at Giving - Chaney, Executive Vice President of Colorado Gives Day, December 8, will have your gift increased through an incentive fund. First.org, which is operated by the FirstBank’s 29th and Quebec Community First Foundation. The location. “We believe Coloradans By Carol Roberts Nearby charities that qualify for the Col - website lists over 400 Colorado Chari - will surpass the $1 million goal on Get a Colorado Tax Credit by giving to a orado Child Care tax credit include: ties, their mission, their programs and December 8. We’re interested in the their financials. Community First Foun - Rob Chaney, strength of communities. As our registered non-profit child care program. The Anchor Center for the Blind , which FirstBank, Sta - dation pays all processing fees, so 100% communities grow and get stronger, When this state tax credit is combined with teaches visually impaired infants, young chil - pleton branch of the donations go to the charities. our banks will get stronger.” federal itemized tax deductions, your out-of- dren and their families, and provides hope and Every donation made at GivingFirst.org on Chaney went on to explain that the incentive a nurturing environment where children can pocket cost is less than half of your gift Dec. 8 (starting at 12am for 24 hours) will be fund will be distributed proportionately to all reach their highest potential. www.anchor amount. increased in value through an incentive fund the non-profits based on the gifts they receive center.org; 303-377-9732; 2550 Roslyn St. The Colorado Child Care Credit started by FirstBank with a $250,000 donation on December 8th. (CCCC) was passed by the legislature to Denver Children’s Home , which provides promote child care in Colorado. Taxpayers services, regardless of ability to pay, to emo - that make a monetary contribution to an tionally distressed children and their families Other nearby charities to consider: medical and dental care, substance abuse treat - organization registered as part of this pro - who struggle with the effects of poverty, abuse Food Bank of the Rockies . According to the ment, and permanent housing by working closely gram may claim a state income tax credit of and neglect. www.DenverChildrensHome.org; Food Bank of the Rockies, in the area they serve with other non-profits. Items needed include food 50% of the total contribution. Call the or - 303-399-4890; 1501 Albion St. nearly 400,000 people live in poverty and strug - that can be warmed and eaten in a motel room, ganization of your choice to get Form DR gle to meet their basic food needs; almost half of toiletries, warm outer clothing (hats, gloves, socks, Summer Scholars , which has year-round pro - scarves, sweaters, coats), blankets and backpacks. 1317 to submit with your taxes. (For more grams that give low-income, academically- them are children. Every dollar donated provides over five pounds of food (four meals). Donate Visit www.aurorawarmsthenight.org to donate on - information, visit Colorado.gov/revenue struggling elementary students the skills line or tax deductible checks should be payable to and click on Child Care Contribution In - online at www.food bankrockies.org. Plan a gath - necessary to attain academic success. They ering of friends and volunteer together for a Aurora Mental Health Center, with Aurora Warms come Tax Credit. The main restrictions are work with numerous public schools in north - three-hour shift (minimum age is 14). Fill out the the Night on the memo line., and mailed to PO that you have no financial interest in the east Denver. www.SummerScholars.org; 303- volunteer form online or call 303-371-9250 x236 Box 1362, Aurora, CO 80040. AWTN’s offices are organization and your tax liability exceeds 355-0290; 3401 Quebec St., Suite 5010. or x232. Or organize a food drive among family located at 1555 Dayton St. the credit amount. and friends and deliver to 10700 E. 46th Ave. Red Apple Recycling is a textile/clothing recycler Friends of St. Andrew serves the poor and home - that funds grants to schools through donations of less of Aurora by providing meals (150 hot clothing and shoes that the community drops in lunches a day), emergency food baskets, personal one of their “little red schoolhouse” boxes. All care items, funding for medical prescriptions on clean donations are accepted regardless of condi - an emergency basis, and other assistance. Volun - tion. A box is located on the northeast corner of teers are needed to work one day a week from 9-2 the Bill Roberts school parking lot. In October with a six-month commitment. Call Sarah Nor - Red Apple Recycling gave Bill Roberts K-8 a check ton at 303-344- 9306. Food staples, basic toi - for $1,500 to be used for a school-wide compost - letries and blankets, sleeping bags and scarves are ing program. Visit www.redapplerecycling.org needed. Visit www.queenofpeace.net/ Donate blood. It’s easy, it’s safe and it saves lives. If friends_st_andrew.html. Tax deductible dona - all blood donors gave blood 2 to 4 times a year it tions go to Queen of Peace (the non-profit would help prevent blood shortages. Businesses 501[c][3] organization), 1525 Dallas St Aurora and community groups are encouraged to organize 80010. (This organization is not listed on Giv - blood drives. To donate to Children’s Hospital, indi - ingFirst.org.) viduals should call 720.777.5398 to set up a time at the Children’s Hospital blood donation center. Visit Aurora Warms the Night provides shelter in se - www.thechildrenshospital.org/give/blood/. To donate verely cold weather. They obtain rooms at local to the Bonfils Blood Center call 303-363-2300 and low-cost motels using a pre-negotiated voucher make an appointment to donate at 7901 Lowry Blvd. system. They also distribute motel-appropriate For information visit www.bonfils.org. food, toiletries and clothing and give referrals for

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December 2010 14 Stapleton Front Porch The Denver Museum of Na - Extraordinary Discovery Sparks ture and Science opened its Mammoth-Mania throughout Colorado doors Saturday, November 20 for “Mammoth and Mastodon By John Babiak Madness.” Thousands of ex - ature has ways of stalling construc - cited Denverites showed up tion projects. In mid-October, Jesse for a first viewing of the fossil Stelle, a heavy equipment operator treasures from the historic N find near Snowmass. for the Gould Construction Company, was doing his part to enlarge the Ziegler Reser - nile; eight to ten American voir located on the edge of Snowmass Village. mastodons; two deer and The project aims to quadruple the reservoir’s four bison with skulls twice ability to catch water from East Snowmass the size of those that now Creek to meet the Village’s escalating water roam the nearby Rocky Mt. needs. Steele’s dozer blade unearthed a size - Arsenal National Wildlife able bone about 20 feet beneath the reser - Refuge; one tiger salaman - voir’s clay bottom. His curiosity peaked; he der, the only amphibian silenced his earthmover and examined the species that today has been specimen along with several dirt mounds that documented in all 63 coun - were created along his path. Soon Steele and ties of Colorado; gnawed his fellow hard-hat-wearing colleagues real - wood from possible beaver ized that the find was of prehistoric propor - inhabitants; insects includ - tions. Their work had revealed a Bulldozer Blade Uncovers Ice Age Past ing iridescent beetles; snails one-of-a-kind, high-elevation, Ice Age ecosys - and microscopic crustaceans; tem, filled with well-preserved flora and reservoir. Recovered Ice Age era plant and have been suggestions that high-altitude envi - and a variety of seeds, cones and leaves from fauna. The ancient lake bottom is now animal specimens will now undergo in- ronments might have harbored different com - sub-alpine fir, white spruce and sedge. known to be comprised of many layers of depth scientific analysis and long-term munities, or had a different story of change, To find more information, visit clay and peat bog, which helped preserve the preservation in the museum’s conservation but since fossils representing them are so www.dmns.org/about-us/snowmass-village- specimens for thousands of years. laboratory. Scientists hope to sequence ex - rarely found, no one has known for sure. mammoth-and-mastodon-excavation. Since the discovery, Denver Museum of tracted DNA from bones or suitable soft tis - Now is our chance to see what they are like,” John Babiak is a Stapleton resident. He is a Nature and Science curators, scientists, vol - sue. Because the samples were saturated said Dr. Daniel Fisher, a mastodon expert microbiologist and teaches science and ecology unteers and consultants have painstakingly with water, controlled drying could take as from the University of Michigan, and a scien - enrichment classes in the Denver Public Schools. mined a small, 100-plus- long as 12 months. Bones that dry too tific consultant on the excavation. He can be reached at square-foot swatch of the quickly can splinter and disintegrate. Car - All in all, the museum recovered approxi - r [email protected]. ou mately 600 bones and bone pieces including ut . bon-dating k o ww methods will 15 tusks, two hec t w C o a rch tusk tips and ide tPo m narrow the v on .co Fr ton age of the 14 bags full of ple Sta specimens tusk fragments that are cur - from the mam - rently esti - moths and mated to be mastodons, in between addition to 12,000 and hundreds of 120,000 years pounds of plant old. Soon, matter. The site DMSN staff yielded the will be able to first-ever Col - tell a great orado Jeffer - story about son’s ground the last Ice sloth; four Age in our Columbian Rocky Moun - mammoths, in - Young museum visitors pretend to be palentologists. tains. “There cluding a juve - Allison, 6, and Wyatt Carlson, 7, look over some of the peat in which the fossils were found. Layers of clay and peat helped preserve the fossils.

Stapleton Front Porch 15 December 2010 Last Moonwalker Sets Foot onto Lowry P h

Apollo XVII Commander Eugene o t o

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Cernan Speaks of His Mission and y and advances in aerospace. Earlier in the day he was

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A at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science to an Unfulfilled Dream S A speak to students who participated in the Wings By Marko and John Babiak Museum “Cernan’s Challenge” video contest. Stu - dents created short videos about the importance of etired U.S. Naval Aviator and NASA space exploration. The contest piqued the interest of Astronaut Eugene Cernan is a man of 13 classmates from Denver’s Cole Arts and Sciences many accomplishments and distinc - R Academy. Their entry, “KidsTek Cole Arts and Sci - tions. Like the first man to set foot onto the ences Academy Space Exploration,” placed 5th over - lunar surface, he earned an undergraduate all in the competition. (See article below—Cole will degree in engineering from Purdue. He is become part of DSST in 2011.) also a graduate of the Naval Post Graduate When (Marko) asked does he have any unful - School in Monterey California. He is the re - filled dreams, he responded: “I still have dreams. cipient of the Navy’s Distinguished Flying The most important dream that I have is to see that Cross and the Distinguished Service Medal someone like you, from your generation, follows in with Star, as well as the NASA Distinguished my footsteps, to go back there where we once lived Service Medal, and the Lindbergh Spirit and to that place that we called home. We can do Award. He has flown fighter jets off of air - that. We need to have the passion and desire to do craft carriers. Captain Cernan led three his - it. Those of us who have preceded you want to give toric missions into space as the Pilot of you the same opportunity that we were given. The Gemini IX, Lunar Modular Pilot of Apollo X sky is no longer the limit. My dream is to see you go and the Commander of our last voyage to the to where no other humans have been before, and moon, Apollo XVII. From the moon’s dark take all of mankind to places that they have never side and in her shadows, he saw trillions of seen before. And I am working pretty hard to make stars against the black backdrop and that come about.” wondered if life existed out there. He Chec k out Marko and John Babiak are Stapleton residents. 4-wheeled over the moon’s crust video our Apollo 17 mission commander Gene Cernan is shown at the start of at ww John was a founding member of the Aircraft Carrier and even etched his daughter’s ini - Fron w. his third EVA (extra vehicular activity) on the moon. The photo was tPorc taken by astronaut Jack Schmitt in what their 3rd colleague, Alan Hornet Museum in Alameda, CA. John served the mu - tials TDC in the lunar regolith.* Staple h ton.co Bean, has called Cernan’s "John Wayne" pose. Cernan is known as the seum as the Apollo Historian and Curator. The USS Since Apollo, he has made it his mission m "Last Man on the Moon.” Hornet recovered the Apollo XI and XII crewmembers to inspire children to take interest in astro - and is now a National Historic Landmark. He can be nautics and aviation. More than that, he encourages them to an Endeavour, Discovery and Columbia Shuttle pilot and crew reached at [email protected]. take on challenges and not be afraid to make mistakes. He commander. Rominger calls Cernan his “hero and idol.” moved two of Colorado’s very own to pursue careers in avia - Gene Cernan is also a staunch patriot and one of the strongest *regolith – the layer of loose material covering the tion: educator and STS-131 Discovery Shuttle Mission Spe - proponents of having man return to the moon. He does not mince bedrock of the earth and moon cialist Dorothy Metcalf-Lindenburger, and Kent Rominger, words when it comes to talking about his passion. In July, while testifying at a U.S. Senate Committee of Commerce, Science and Transporta - tion meeting on NASA’s budget and America’s role in the future of human exploration in space he said that “the budget proposal presents no challenges, has no focus, and in fact is a blueprint for a mission to nowhere.” Still, he has the dubious distinction of being the last man to walk on the moon, a distinction that he would gladly shed to a young man or woman. Cernan was recently in Denver to be honored by the Wings Over the Rockies museum during a gala that helps the Museum in Lowry sustain its many ed - ucational outreach programs. He was the recipient of their annual Spreading Wings Award, which recognizes those who have dedicated their lives to flight

Cole Arts and Sciences Academy students who placed 5th in Cernan’s video challenge on the Gene Cernan, 76, speaks at the Denver Museum of Nature importance of space exploration sit behind the Colorado astronauts as Cernan spoke. Cole and Science; Colorado astronauts Dorothy Metcalf-Linden - students, left to right, are: Jesus Lara, Lane Jones, Matilk Mathiang, Georgia Jay, Luis Moreno, burger and Kent Rominger join him on the stage. Angel Hernandez and after-school computer sciences instructor from KidsTek, Nathan Martin. One of Denver's Top Private Schools DSST Public Schools Receives $3 Million for Expansion Presents a New Middle School! he Denver School of Science and Technology Public Schools (DSST) recently received a five-year $3 million DMIS will offer the IB Middle Years Program to all students in grades 6-8 Tgrant from the Daniels Fund to help fund expansion of its network of public charter schools. The Daniels Fund has been a supporter of DSST since its inception, giving gifts that Middle School helped to open the first campus in Stapleton and additional gifts that support DSST’s capacity to open and manage new schools Open House and school start-ups. Linda Childears, president and CEO of the Daniels Fund, says, “DSST schools have achieved great re - Thurs., Dec. 9, 4 –6 pm sults, demonstrating that all students can perform to high stan - dards when given quality support to get there.” Followed by a presentation on DSST Public Schools was founded as the Denver School of Transitioning to Science and Technology in 2004 with the founding campus at Adolescence Stapleton. DSST currently serves over 1,000 students with three schools on two campuses. DSST has been approved to open by board-certified child and adolescent three additional secondary school campuses (grades 6–12) in psychiatrist Dr. Christian Thurstone 2011, 2012 and 2013. At full enrollment, DSST Public Schools from 6 –7:30pm in the gymnasium. will serve over 4,200 students, and will double the number of RSVP to [email protected]. four-year-college-ready DPS graduates by 2020. The next DSST expansion school will be Cole (located near Visit us online at MLK and Downing), a school where the parents approached DSST www.dmischool.com and asked them to develop a proposal for bringing the DSST pro - or call 303-340-3647 gram to their school. The Cole program has been approved by the school board and will start with a class of sixth-graders in 2011.

December 2010 16 Stapleton Front Porch from the city in order to have it installed. “Buddy,” the nickname only she and Premium Fishwrap* by Jon Meredith That idea was certainly out of the question. her husband used, “what do you think “He doesn’t like to go out, so I don’t about this? You’re the youngest and you ...... think he would ever go in the house, may not want to go along because Christ - sweetie,” said Mom, trying to gently put the mas is a very special time for little guys.” The Ride Home: A Christmas Tale kibosh on that ridiculously expensive idea. “Mom, there are lots of kids who don’t Finally, her middle child chimed in after get a bunch of stuff at Christmas. Half Mom had always made time in her sched - daughter is right and she had come up with a being seemingly oblivious to the entire con - the stuff you buy I lose anyway. So, I’m ule to pick the kids up from school and poor question today. versation. “How ’bout we just skip the cool with it.” drive them home. Her rule, for herself as Mom’s middle son was curled up against whole present deal this year, Mom. There Mom could not believe what she had well, was no electronics on this five- to the driver’s side rear window with an ear bud are things about Christmas that are much just heard. She pulled up to the house and ten-minute drive. Whatever calls or texts tucked into his ear. He had not chimed in yet. more important than the gifts. Let’s pick the kids scrambled out of the car. Could needed to be made had to wait during Mom felt her phone vibrate and her first names out of a hat and buy that person a they really have a great Christmas without this sacrosanct time. In order for this to instinct was to pick it up. As a Realtor, she is present worth no more than $20. My gifts? If it was the children’s idea, then, work, she had to come up with some - constantly on the phone, and this might be friend’s family did that last year and he said yes, they probably could and she would thing the four of them could talk about. the buyers who she had just shown a few it was the best Christmas they ever had be - make it very, very special. A Christmas Today would be an easy one, she houses to. Christmas would be a whole lot cause his parents weren’t fighting about her family would never forget. All the thought. “Hey guys, what should we get easier if only she could close a sale prior to the money.” trimmings of Christmas except the over - the dog for Christmas?” It was only early end of the year. If she answered she knew that The daughter, thinking fast, knew her abundance of gifts. She started to tear up November but all the stores had their she could never again impose her little rule on brother had something, “Let’s take the pres - when she remembered her phone. Christmas decorations up and she knew the kids. She let the call go and drove faster. sure off Mom and Dad this year and make There was a text from the buyers. the kids would be thinking about what Her youngest once again chimed in, “If we Christmas really special without a bunch of “Wld like to offer full $$ on the Elm they wanted. Last year her husband lost don’t want to buy an expensive present for the gifts. We can buy stuff next year.” Prop. Can we close and be in before his job at this time and they got through dog, why don’t we make him something?” Mom couldn’t believe what she was hear - Xmas?” Christmas on credit. That turned out to “Like, what could you ever make a dog? ing. The two oldest children really under - Jon Meredith lives in Stapleton. He can be a big mistake that in fact almost made That is sooo stupid,” cried the daughter. stood these financial issues within the family be reached at [email protected]. them lose their house. “I think we could make the dog a great and were willing to sacrifice their Christmas *Fishwrap is a slang term that started in “A new PS2 with Modern Warfare present such as a pillow or a chewy toy.” Mom gifts in order to help. She had one more vote the ’30s and refers to the transient value of Black Ops,” piped up her youngest boy, a knew she had to defend her little one and the to take and she turned to her youngest. yesterday’s newspaper. second-grader. idea wasn’t half-baked. Her ninth-grade daughter responded “I think we should get him the cool dog - by shaming her brother with bluntness house that the Smiths bought their dog last only an adolescent can have, “Stupid, you year. I think it came from LL Bean,” the want that for yourself. Why get the dog daughter suggested, completely oblivious to anything, for all we know he might be the financial concerns she had just imposed Jewish. We don’t have money to waste on on her little brother. the dog when Dad just got a job...finally, Mom had seen the Smiths’ doghouse and geesh.” Mom thought to herself her wondered if they had to get a building permit

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Stapleton Front Porch 17 December 2010 24-Year-Old Mayfair Native Makes a Difference in the World P

By Nancy Burkhart h

at Wesleyan University, is chief executive of - o t o

hen Mayfair native Jessica Posner ficer. SHC has a staff of 30 people in Mid - s

c o

was majoring in African Ameri - dletown and five recent college graduates u r t e

working in Kenya. s can studies at Wesleyan Univer - y

o

W f

sity in Middletown, Connecticut, she In Kibera, SHC has built a tuition-free J e s s

studied abroad, like many college students school for 67 girls that boards six students, a i c a

do. But little did she know that her experi - community center to provide social services, P o s n

ence in Africa’s largest slum, Kibera, located and a community-run health clinic with a e r in Nairobi, Kenya, would provide her with a paid, professional Kenyan staff. The clinic is lifetime career. named for Colorado native Johanna Justin- Posner worked on a theater project and Jinich, who was shot and killed near Wes - lived in Kibera, the only white person to do leyan University. One room in the clinic so in residents’ memories. Jessica Posner, a 24-year-old was named for Denver’s Chase Parr who, who grew up in Mayfair, co- “I had a deep appreciation and under - founded a charity to help along with her father and mother, was standing for equality,” Posner said. women and children in Kenya’s killed in a holiday season car accident three It was this quality that led her to discus - Kibera slum. years ago. Her younger sister was the only sions with Kennedy Odede, then a 23-year- surviving family member. old Kibera resident who had grown up in a large family “We’re really focusing on expanding the school and serv - with an abusive father and two sisters who had children at ing more people at the health clinic,” Posner said. young ages. The discussions focused on what to do about SHC’s mission is to “combat intergenerational cycles of the extreme poverty that forced 66 percent of Kibera’s girls poverty and gender inequality.” All efforts are directed to - to trade sex for food by the age of 16, that gave only 8 per - ward making women respected members of society. cent of all Kibera girls an opportunity to attend school, In recognition for their work with SHC, Posner and and that took the lives of one in five children before their Odede have been named 2010 Echoing Green Fellows and fifth birthdays. won the 2010 Dell Social Innovation Competition. Posner “Seeing Kennedy’s mother working so hard for her fam - was named Top World Changer 25 and Under by Do Some - ily was where the idea for working with women started,” thing and VH1. Posner said. Posner credits her family with giving her a desire to make The result was a nonprofit organization called Shining a difference in the world. Hope for Communities (SHC). Posner, now 24 years old, “My parents were always very supportive,” she said. is chief operating officer and Odede, who now is a student “They gave me a broad view of the world and an apprecia -

Posner’s charity, Shining Hope for Communities, has built a tuition-free school for 67 girls, a community center to Budget Blinds – custom window provide social services, and a community-run health clinic coverings that fit your style with a paid, professional Kenyan staff. tion for all the opportunities I’ve had, as well as an and budget! understanding of the responsibility to give back to • Personal Style Consultants the world.” Posner sees SHC growing in the future with other • Thousands of samples from the best brands projects in different parts of the world and not just • “Expert Fit” measuring and installation in African American cultures. Short-term plans call • Over 1,100 consultants for more students living at the Kibera school. Posner will talk about SHC and Kibera’s needs at FREE In-Home Consultation & Estimate a benefit, Deep River: A Spirituals Concert and Talk, to be held at 2pm on December 5 at Saint Thomas Church, East 22nd Ave. and Dexter St. (See p. 23) A longtime friend of Posner’s family, Dr. Arthur 30% OFF Jones, will sing spirituals that were created and sung All Home or by African Americans who were slaves. Songs with Office Window Treatments Christmas themes will be included. Admission is free. Donations will be accepted. Call today for details! We have the styles you love. “I think that you’re able to give so much for so lit - Shutters • Draperies 72 0- 87 0-1 884 tle,” Posner said. “Even $20 goes far. To feed all the or visit us online at www.budgetblinds.com Wood Blinds • Honeycomb Shades students for one day, it takes $10.” Roller Shades • Vertical Blinds Some Restrictions Apply. Offer Good At Time of Initial The SHC website says that $25 buys 33 books, Estimate Only. Lifetime Limited Warranties. ® Not Valid With Any Other Offers. 360 pencils or 12 pairs of shoes. For further informa - Silhouette • Woven Wood a style for every point of view TM and more! tion about SHC, go to www.shininghopeforcommu - nities.org.

December 2010 18 Stapleton Front Porch Many nonprofit organizations who have used SVGD volunteers return for their help. Groups such as the Denver Singles Dumb Friends League and The Crossing have worked with SVGD. Organizations looking for a partnership with SVGD are Unite for asked to give four weeks’ notice. “I’m at a limit of seven events a month,” Okafor said. “We can’t do more Charitable than that because we don’t have enough volunteers for more. So, I do turn events away.” Work SVGD membership is about 300. Many people have been interested in By Nancy Burkhart membership, not only for the local volun - any singles join matchmak - teerism, but for the international volun - ing clubs to find partners. teerism SVGD offers. A February 7–14 MOthers realize that being trip to Puerto Vallarta is being organized around other singles when they do Howard Shaw, Stapleton resident and member of Single Volunteers of Greater Denver, serves dinner to indi - that will provide SVGD members with an what they are passionate about gives viduals and families for whom The Crossing provides long term rehabilitation and transitional housing. The opportunity to volunteer in three non - them people to talk to who have the Crossing, located in a former hotel located in North Park Hill, is a branch of the Denver Rescue Mission. profit events there. same interests. “There is an orphanage that we assist This is the basis for Single Volunteers of Greater Den - cepting environment. You feel like you’re accomplishing with,” Okafor explained. “We assist Peace Mexico with ver. The organization acts as a resource for nonprofit organ - something and you feel like you’re connected with people.” spay-neuter clinics, and the botanical gardens that is doing izations that need extra help putting on fundraising SVGD offers its volunteer members the opportunity to research work. We have a dinner cruise and a fiesta. An aver - activities such as silent auctions, walk-a-thons and run-a- work at about 70 events a year for a one-time membership age tourist would not get to do that kind of trip. We’re put - thons. SVGD offers members an opportunity to do volun - fee of $10, according to Kayla Okafor, the group’s volunteer ting together a Guatemala trip for October.” teer work without the need to commit to a certain number event coordinator. The Puerto Vallarta trip costs each member $1,200, in - of hours a month. “The members don’t have to make a time commit - cluding airfare, hotel for seven nights, and all events, she “It’s a healthy way to give back to the community, and I ment,” Okafor said. “We would hope that they would select said. get to hang out with lighthearted people,” explained one event a month, but that doesn’t work for everyone. For Single Volunteers of Greater Denver membership in - Howard Shaw. Most of them are working people who can’t make a com - formation, go to www.svgd.org. Nonprofits seeking partner - Shaw is a Stapleton resident who is 50 years old and a mitment for every week or every month on a certain day. ship information with SVGD should email Kayla Okafor at systems engineer for Lockheed Martin. SVGD attracts They can go on the website and see what interests them.” [email protected] or call her 303.455.0244. members over 21, he said, noting that some members are With so many events under their belts, SVGD members The Crossing consists of 149 living units for nearly 500 in their 60s. It is not a matchmaking service. offer nonprofits the benefit of their extensive experience. men, women and children caught in the cycle of poverty and “A love connection can happen, but it’s not our primary “Since we volunteer a lot, we’re fairly expert at how to homelessness who are engaged in various programs that may objective,” he said. “If you meet people doing something make an event that we support work,” Shaw said. “We include life skills training classes, educational opportunities, you like, you know you have some aspect of your life in aren’t just random people who can show up and do registra - mentoring and job readiness. Donations can be made online at common. Your value systems may line up. tion and hand out directions. We really know how to do www.DenverRescueMission.org. Items needed include: canned “By doing volunteering and being single, it’s an easy those things well. We can be very helpful at making what goods and non-perishable food items, diapers (larger child way to connect with people in an environment where we all they’re doing much more effective. If you’ve done enough sizes), and hygiene items. Volunteers can find information have the same goal,” he said. “You can show up and not volunteering, you develop an expertise. The only question is about long-term and short-term positions at know anyone and feel included immediately. It’s a very ac - how we can align their needs with our participation.” www.DenverRescueMission.org.

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Stapleton Front Porch 19 December 2010 LOCAL EVENT LISTINGS

HOLIDAY EVENTS 12/4, 12/5, 12/11, 12/12 Saturday and Sun - ter for Performing Arts, Univ . of Denver . 2344 E. 12/11 Saturday- Holiday in the Highlands . day- 50th Annual Georgetown Christmas Iliff. www.cleoparkerdance.org or 303.295.1759 Wagon rides, Santa, strolling carolers and more . 1– Through 12/26- The Nutcracker . Presented by Market. European-inspired market with hand - ext 13 3pm. 32 nd and Lowell in N . Denver . www.highlands- Colorado Ballet. Tickets start at $19. Ellie Caulkins crafted gifts, carolers, horse-drawn wagon rides, 12 /4 Saturday- Denver Waldorf School’s square.com Opera House, Denver Performing Arts Complex. roasted chestnuts, appearances by St. Nicholas in Holiday Fair. Vendors, food, crafts, carriage rides 12/12 Sunday-Tuba Christmas Concert. 1pm . www.coloradoballet.org traditional robes and much more! Saturday and and more. 9am –4pm . Denver Waldorf School, 940 Registration 9am ; Rehearsal 10am . Skyline Park, Through 12/24 - A Christmas Carol . Appropriate Sunday , 10am –6pm. FREE admission. Fillmore St. www.denverwaldorf.org 16th and Arapahoe. Auraria Events Center. FREE. for ages 8 and up. Stage Theatre, Denver Performing 303.569.2888, www.historicgeorgetown.org/ 12/5 Sunday- A Colorado Christmas. Experi - www.tubachristmas.com or 303.556.8123 Arts Complex. Tickets from $18 . 303.893.4100, spevents/xmarket.htm ence Four Mile House decked out for the holi - 12/12 Sunday and 12/18 Saturday- Twas the www.denvercenter.org 12/4 Saturday- Snack with Santa. Denver days, play Victorian games with Father Christmas, Brass Before Christmas . Presented by the Den - 12/1 Wednesday and 12/2 Thursday- Hip Holi - Children ’s Museum, 10 –1pm , www.mychildsmu - make your own gingerbread fantasy, snack on sug - ver Brass. 12/12 show 2:30pm ; 12/18 show 7:30pm. day Market with Dizzie Izzie and Friends. seum.org arplums, create popcorn and cranberry orna - Tickets from $9. Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Have a glass of wine while shopping local Denver 12/4 Saturday- Festival of Lights at Historic ments for Four Mile Tree and more. Admission : $5 Hampden Ave. www.denverbrass.org or artisans and vendors. Thursday is Men’s Preferred Four Mile Park Presented by Colorado He - adults, $3 youth 7 –17; members free. 12 –4pm . 715 303.832.HORN Shopping night : beer, brats and free gift wrap! 4:30 – brew Chorale. Traditional Chanukah candle S. Forest St. www.fourmilehistoricpark.org 12/14 Tuesday- A Jazz Christmas with Dianne 9pm both days. 9201 E . 33 rd Ave . in Stapleton’s lighting, music, food and instructional Israeli folk 12/5 Sunday- Denver Brass Presents I’ll Be Reeves. Presented by Colorado Symphony. 7:30pm. North Central Park neighborhood. dancing. Bring own candles and menorahs for Home for Christmas. 3:30pm. FREE/with dona - Boettcher Concert Hall, 1000 14th St . www.col - 12/3 Friday and 12/4 Saturday- Fancy Tiger’s candle lighting! 6:30pm . Four Mile Historic Park’s tion. Bethany Lutheran Church , 4500 E. Hampden oradosymphony.org Holiday Homemade. Denver’s alternative craft Grant Family Education Center, 715 S. Forest St . Ave . www.denverbrass.org or 303.832.HORN 12/15 Wednesday and 12/19 Sunday- Messiah fair, over 75 crafters! Friday 5 –9pm, Saturday 10 – Admission (includes performance, food & folk 12/10 to 12/24- Winter Wonderlights at by Candlelight. Presented by Colorado Sym - 4pm. 1770 Sherman St ., Sherman St . Events Center. dancing): Adults: $18, Students (w/ID) /Seniors Wildlife Experience. 5:30– 8:30pm nightly. phony. 12/15 at 7:30pm, 12/19 at 5:30pm. Montview 12/3 Friday and 12/4 Saturday- 9News Parade (65+): $15 . FMHP & CHC members: $12, Chil - dren 6 & Under: Free. Breakfast with Santa, 12/4, 11, 18 and 24 at 9am. Presbyterian Church , 1980 Dahlia St. www.col - of Lights. Marching bands, giant balloons, dazzling www.thewildlifeexperience.org oradosymphony.org floats and delightful characters. Friday 8pm and Sat - 12/4, 12/11, 12/12 and 12/18- Santa Claus 12/10 to 12/19- It’s a Wonderful Life. Pre - 12/17 Friday and 12/19 Sunday- Holiday Mas - urday 6pm. FREE. Denver City and County Building , Special at Colorado Railroad Museum. Mu - sented by Rocky Mountain Conservatory Theatre. terworks Concert: A John Denver Christmas . 1437 Bannock St . 720.913.4900 seum’s locomotive and passenger cars will be all decked out for the holidays. See Santa and Mrs. University of Denver’s Newman Center. www.RM - Presented by Aurora Symphony Orchestra. Friday 12/3 Friday to 1/2/2011- Blossoms of Light. CTonline.com or 303.476.0222 7:30pm ; Sunday 3pm. John Denver tribute artist Over one million colorful lights , holospex glasses, Claus and enjoy cup of hot chocolate. www.col - 12/10 Friday through 12/12 Sunday. Col - John Adams collaborates with ASO on inspirational romantic and popular kissing spots and seasonal en - oradorailroadmuseum.org orado Christmas. Presented by Colorado Sym - holiday celebration for the entire family. Tickets: $15 tertainment on select evenings. 5:30 –9:30pm includ - 12/4 to 12/19- Granny Dances to a Holiday phony. Boettcher Concert Hall 1000 14 th Street adults ; $12 students/seniors . aurorasymphony.org ing holidays. Adults $9, Students /Seniors $7, Drum. Cleo Parker Robinson Dance. Denver Downtown Denver. www.coloradosymphony.org 12/17 Friday and 12/18 Saturday- Too Hot to Children $6. Denver Botanic Gardens. 1007 York St . tradition for 18 years celebrating winter holidays for tickets and more info. Handel presented by Colorado Symphony. 720.865.3514 from around the world through dance, live music and spoken word. Byron Theatre, Newman Cen - 12/11 & 12/12 Saturday and Sunday - Holi - Boettcher Concert Hall, 1000 14th St ., Downtown day Gift Mart at Italian Institute. 10am – Denver. 7:30pm. www.coloradosymphony.org 4pm. Italian pottery, hats, jewelry & more. 670 S. 12/17 Friday and 12/18 Saturday- Denver Gay Colorado Blvd , #100. Free parking in back. Men’s Chorus Holiday Concert :This Shining www.ItalianInstitute.com Night . 7:30pm at L2 Arts and Culture Center , 12/11 Saturday- Holiday Brass Fest. Calling all 1477 Columbine St . at Colfax Ave . Advance tickets : Complete Skin Care brass players, come perform with the Denver $22/ adults ; $18/ students; children 12 and Brass! DPCA Galleria, Registration:10:30am, Re - under /free when accompanied by adult at Rocky hearsal: 11am, Free public concert: 1pm. Mountain Arts Assoc . website www.rmarts.org and as unique as you are www.denverbrass.org or 303.832 HORN higher price at door on day of concert . 12/11 to 12/19- Butterfly Pavilion Living 12/18 Saturday- Charles Dickens Candlelight Lights, Illuminating Small Wonders. Thou - Christmas Tour. Molly Brown House Museum. MEDICAL COSMETIC SURGICAL sands of lights illuminate tropical rainforest and Hear excerpts from A Christmas Carol in Molly outdoor gardens at Butterfly Pavilion. 5:30 –8pm Brown’s festively decorated home. Learn about the Skin cancer Skin checks Physician-administered Mohs Micrographic Surgery nightly . www.butterflies.org Browns ’ happiest Christmas and enjoy cookies and Acne Eczema Psoriasis Botox, Fillers, and Skin cancer treatment cider on Mrs. Brown ’s third floor. Tickets : $13 /mem - Laser Treatments Warts Rash Phototherapy Cosmetic excision and 12/11 Saturday- Hammonds Candy Cane bers ; $16 nonmembers. 6 and 7pm. www.molly - Photodynamic therapy Intense Pulsed Light repair Festival . Santa and Mrs. Claus, storytelling, carol - brown.org Resurfacing Pigment ing, cookie decorating, face painting and trolley Hair and Vascular Lasers rides. 9am –5pm. 5735 N. Washington St. 12/19 Sunday and 12/22 Wednesday- Hark! Brass and Angels Sing . Presented by Denver Chemical Peels www.hammondscandies.com or 303.333.5588 ext Brass with Colorado Chorale. 4pm 12/19, 7:30pm Microdermabrasion 110 12/22. Newman Center for Performing Arts at DU. Sclerotherapy www.denverbrass.org or 303.832.HORN

(west entrance) 3055 Roslyn 3rd Thursday (at MLK) 720-848-9000 Stapleton Citizens Advisory RECURRING Board Mtg, 7350 E. 29th Ave. 3rd Tuesday 7:30 –9am 303-393-7700 Greater Stapleton Business EVENTS Assoc. 8am MCA, 2823 Roslyn St 1st Saturday 303-393-7700 Bluff Lake Birders, Nature 4th Monday Center 7 –9am Every Wednesday BluffLakeNatureCenter.org SUN Board Mtg. 7:30pm, Weekly Weeders, Bluff Lake Na - MCA, 2823 Roslyn St. ture Center 9am –12pm, 2nd Saturday [email protected] 303-945-6717 NE Denver/Park Hill MS Self- Every Tuesday Help & Support Group, Dist. 2 1st Wednesday Police Station, 10:15 –11:45am Stapleton Rotary Club – 7:30am “1st Wednesdays” Home-based 3821 Holly St. 303-329-0619 Stapleton Community Room businesses. Alternates between 2823 Roslyn St. Lunch & Happy Hour 2nd Sunday Erin Welch, M.D. Joe Simodynes, M.D. Carrie Cera Hill, M.D. www.denverstapletonrotary.org tbrislin @gmail.com Collaborative Kite Fly & Walk, www.stapletonhomebusiness.co (free) Stapleton Central Park, Every Tuesday 2:30-5pm. Please RSVP at Denver Dermatology Consultants, P.C. AA Open Discussion Mtg. 7:30pm 2nd Wed. (Odd-numbered mos.) Meetup.com/RockyMtnKite MCA, 2823 Roslyn St 303-912- SUN Transportation Committee or Meetup.com/TTWalks Stapleton Laser Center 7075 6:30pm MCA 2823 Roslyn St. Periodically 1st Tuesday [email protected] Stapleton Wine Appreciation Breast Cancer Support Group Group. [email protected] www.denverderm.com 303-426-4525 5–6:30pm AF Williams Family 2970 Quebec St Suite 200 - above Bank of the West Medicine Clinic, Conf Rm.

When You Need An Attorney Divorce & Legal Separation, Paternity & Custody (Parental Responsibilities), Modification of Existing Orders for Child Support & Parenting Time, and Mediation Stapleton resident 26 years family law and litigation experience 8 years collaborative law involvement Attorney input mediation available Regency Commons 12605 East Euclid Dr. • Centennial, CO 80111 Karen B. Best Phone 303-708-1300 • Fax 303-708-1612 Attorney at Law [email protected]

December 2010 20 Stapleton Front Porch LOCAL EVENT LISTINGS

12/22 Wednesday- Trans-Siberian Orches - Plaza/MLK Library (E . Colfax at Elmira) to get tra. Pepsi Center. Worldwide top -selling act offer - map to all venues. ing concert of holiday favorites with lasers, 12/17 Friday- An Introduction to Belgian To submit information for the Front Porch pyrotechnics and state -of -the -art Beer. Sample amazing brews from one of the lighting. www.ticketmaster.com most diverse beer cultures in the world. Learn “Local Event ” Listings 12/31 Friday- A Night in Vienna presented background, characteristics and history while Email information in the following format by the 15th Visit denver.org/events to find more by Colorado Symphony. 6:30pm. Boettcher tasting beers that represent major Belgian brew - of the month to [email protected]. Events events. Check out the Denver 2 for Concert Hall, 1000 14th St . www.coloradosym - ing styles . 6–9 pm. $6 or $34 for CFU members ; will be run subject to space available. 1 Tix special offers. phony.org $15 materials fee. Colorado Free University . Date in numerical format (mm/dd), day of week- Name Press releases for suggested stories www.freeu.com , 303.399. 0093 X0. Through 12/31- Symphony in Lights. The of Event. A one- or two-sentence description. Time. should be sent separately to front - Shops at Northfield Stapleton show runs nightly List cost or if free. Location. Contact information. [email protected]. 6–9 pm . www.northfieldstapleton.com 12/17 Friday- Become a Grant Writer. Dis - cover 6 common reasons why grant-makers de - 12/31 Friday- Annual New Year’s Eve Down - cline a proposal. Identify 10 strategies to make town Fireworks Display . 2 shows, 9pm and your proposal stand out above others, and learn 12/11 Saturday- Ceylon Pearl Tea Tasting . midnight. 16th Street Mall. how to write the 7 basic parts of a proposal. ACTIVE MINDS LECTURES AND 10am. Learn about the varieties and health bene - Through 1/2/11- Hudson Holiday- Holiday 9am –4 pm. $113 or $99 for CFU members. Col - DISCUSSIONS fits of tea while sampling the delicious tea of lighting display with horse -drawn carriage rides orado Free University . www.freeu.com , 303. Ceylon Pearl. and glowing garden railroad. Tickets : $9 adult, $8 399. 0093 X0 Info on all sessions, www.ActiveMindsFor Life.com. FREE. 12/13 Monday- Rob Wivchar: Man of 1,000 senior and $6 child. Times and dates vary over 12/17 Friday- Overdue Love Club, Singles Songs. Listen to the holiday stylings of the versa - holiday season . www.hudsonholiday.com Night for Intelligent People. Come chat with 12/7 Tuesday, Pearl Harbor: The Day that tile Rob Wivchar while you escape from seasonal other interesting singles, indulge in wine and cof - Lives in Infamy . 10am . Jewish Community Cen - ter, 350 S Dahlia St . RSVP Lil Shaw: 303.316.6359 . madness at the library. 6pm. DENVER EVENTS fee. Michelangelo’s Wine and Coffee Bar, every 3rd Fri., 6:30 –8pm. 1 S Broadway. Registration en - 12/9 Thursday- Tchaikovsky and the Nut - 12/03 Friday- First Friday Art Walks: couraged , 720.865.1206 cracker. 10 am –noon (10am reception, 10:30am KIDS AND FAMILIES Santa Fe Arts District . December’s Art Walk 12/22 Thursday- Highlands Square Walk program) . Limited seating . 1375 High St . RSVP : 12/9 Thursday to 12/12 Sunday- Disney on celebrates the holiday season with Luminarias and Shop Night. 5pm to close. 32nd and Low - 303.399.5555. Ice. Pepsi Center. Tickets: www.tickethorse.com or de Santa Fe , hundreds of festive glowing lumi - ell, North Denver. www.highlands-square.com 12/9 Thursday- Chocolate. 7– 8pm . Stapleton 1.866.461.6556, from $15. narias (paper bags filled with a candle) on Santa Single Volunteers of Greater Denver . Visit Master Community Association, 2823 Roslyn St. 12/18 Saturday- Saturdays at the Art Barn Fe Drive between 10th and 6th . www.artdistric - www.svgd.org for upcoming volunteer opportuni - www.stapletoncommunity.com Presents Holiday Gifts and Baking Treats. tonSantafe.com ties for singles. Activities include local projects, 12/13 Monday- Denver History. 2:30-3:30pm. Ages 5+, pack a lunch, $55 (supplies included). North Denver’s Tennyson Art Walk. charitable social events and working vacations Springbrooke, 6800 Leetsdale Dr. RSVP : 10:30am-2:30pm. 2539 Xanthia Ct . 720.252.9553, Tennyson St . and 44th Ave. www.denverart - abroad. 303.331.9963. [email protected] walk.squarespace.com Adopt a Sophisticated Cat- Denver Dumb 12/15 Wednesday- Women of Denver His - Through 3/11- Louisville Winterskate- Out - Cherry Creek Arts District. Friends League offering FREE adoptions of cats 6 tory . 1:30-2:30pm. Washington St . Community door ice skating with traditional holiday music and www.cherrycreeknorth.com years and older. www.ddfl.org or 303.771.5772 Center , 809 S. Washington St. RSVP : 303.733.4643. Friday night carriage rides. Call for hours, 303.449.3137. 824 Front St ., Louisville. www.bce - 12/4 Saturday- Harmonica for the Holidays. 12/29 Wednesday- Disney in Concert pre - 12/21 Tuesday- Paris: Biography of a City. productions.com Get into the holiday spirit by learning to play sev - sented by Colorado Symphony. 6:30pm. 11am –noon (10:45 refreshments) .Temple Emanuel, eral best-loved songs on the harmonica. Players of Boettcher Concert Hall, 1000 14th St , Down - 51 Grape St. RSVP : 303.388.4013 x307 . Through 3/11 - Flatiron Crossing Winter - any level will have great fun playing popular secu - skate . Outdoor rink outside the mall with holiday town Denver. www.coloradosymphony.org 12/28 Tuesday- The National Parks. 5:30- lar songs such as Jingle Bells and pretty melodies music. Call for hours, 303.449.3137 . www.bcepro - Through 1/31- Southwest Rink at Skyline 6:30pm. Tattered Cover, 2526 E. Colfax Ave. like Silent Night . 9:30–11:30 am, $71 or $59 for Park. FREE ice skating in Downtown Denver. ductions.com CFU members. Colorado Free University. Bring your skates or rent a pair for $2. Mon –Fri , Art Students League of Denver- Now register - www.freeu.com , 303.399.0093 X0 noon –10pm ; Sat and Sun , 9am –10pm. Reduced LIBRARIES ing programs for kids and teens. 303.778.6990 or 12/5 Sunday- Hope and Healing: A Spiritu - hours on holidays. www.downtowndenver.com For info on library programs, check events www.ASLD.org als Concert and Talk with Dr. Arthur Jones . calendar at denverlibrary.org. Small Hands Art Studio- Winter art classes Free . Donations benefit Kibera School for Girls in All Denver Public Library locations will be closed begin 1/11. Located in Stapleton! www.smallhand - Africa ’s largest slum in Kenya . St. Thomas Episco - HEALTH AND WELLNESS on Friday , December 24 and Saturday , December sart.com info. pal Church, 22nd and Dexter St. Concert features 12/14 Tuesday- Because Life Happens. Find 25 and Friday , December 31 and Saturday January The Art Garage- Now registering for seasonal/ Dr. Arthur Jones and include some Christmas out what happens to your precious gift of life 1 for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. holiday workshops and classes for December and spirituals. Reception follows. Contact Elizabeth after you give blood. Program and tour of Bonfils over the holiday break. Ages 4 and up. 6100 E. 23rd Bennett : 303.316.7570. Park Hill Library , 4705 Montview Blvd . lab facilities. 717 Yosemite St . 12– 1pm. FREE. 720.865.0250. Closed Mondays, Wednesdays Ave. in Park Hill. www.artgaragedenver.com 12/12 Friday- Aurora’s East End Second Fri - RSVP : [email protected] or 303.739.4000. and Sundays. Through 12/30- School House Rock Live! Ar - day Art Walk. Gallery openings, music, theater, vada Center for the Performing Arts. www.arvada - food and more . 5– 8pm. Start at Fletcher Thursdays- Storytime with a Craft. For kids who can sit and listen to short stories, par - center.org or 720.898.7200 for ticipate in songs and simple craft. 10:30am . Craft showtimes /ticketing. limited to first 30 kids . Through 1/2/11- Tutankhamen: The Golden Thursdays and Fridays- Book Babies. For King and the Great Pharaohs. Denver Art Mu - babies 6– 23 months with parent /caregiver. Share seum, 13th at Broadway and Bannock. Tickets at books, songs , finger plays. 11:15am. museum or Ticketmaster or Tickethorse, $16.50 up . www.tutdenver.com Fridays- Tales for Twos . Storytime for 2- year - olds and caregivers. Stories, songs, movement ac - tivities. 10:30am. MUSEUMS Schlessman Family Library , 100 Poplar St Denver Museum of Nature and Science, (1st and Quebec) . 720.865.0000. Closed Montview and Colorado Blvd. Wednesdays and Fridays. Children’s pro - www.dmns.org gramming returns in January! 12/16 Thursday- Science Lounge. Cocktails and 12/4 Saturday- Holiday Appetizer entertainment every 3rd Thurs . of month. 6:30- Sampler . 2pm. Help prepare and sample deli - 9:30pm. $8 /members /$10/ nonmembers. cious, holiday appetizers that are sure to be Through 1/2/2011 Amazon Voyage: Vicious crowd pleasers. Fishes and other Riches. Free with admission. 12/5 Sunday- Photo Fabric Art. 2pm. Innova - Planetarium- Journey to the Stars . Narrated tive projects you can do with photos and fabric by Whoopi Goldberg, various times; tickets $6/ages that require little to no sewing. Includes a small 3–18, $8/adult photo ornament that you make in class. IMAX-Hubble in 3D narrated by Leonardo De - Caprio . Under the Sea in 3D narrated by Jim Carrey. Various times, tickets $8/3 –18. $10/ adult. (continued on page 22) Where We Treat Your Family as Our Family We’re Growing Too! Watch for our updated & expanded website coming soon!

Brandon Davison-Tracy, MD • Amy Nash, MD Noah Makovsky, MD — 5280 “Top Doc”

Stapleton Front Porch 21 December 2010 LOCAL EVENT LISTINGS

(continued from page 21) NORTHFIELD EVENTS Harkins Theatres 18 – 720.374.3118, 12/7 Tuesday and 12/28 Tuesday- Tuesday Live Music at The Soiled Dove . One of Den - www.HarkinsTheatres.com Tots: Fly Like an Eagle. 10– 11am. Imagine living ver’s best live music venues, The Soiled Dove is lo - Northfield Stapleton Horse and Carriage 12/10 Friday – The Chronicles of Narnia in a nest, learning to fly, soaring through the air. cated at 7401 E . 1 st Ave . in Lowry. Tickets: Rides 12/17 Friday – Tron Legacy Discover what it’s like to be a bald eagle and how www.soileddove.com Carriage departs at Bass Pro Shops and drops 12/22 Wednesday – Little Fockers you compare to these majestic birds. This program off at Main Street Northfield for the young naturalist 2 to 5 years old. Parent or SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION 12/19 Sunday – 11am –7pm Improv Comedy Club and Dinner Theatre – guardian must accompany all children. 12/8 Wednesday- Ricks Center for Gifted 12/23 Thursday – 11am –7pm Tickets: 303 .307.1777 Children Admission Information Session. 12/24 Friday – 10am –6pm www.ImprovDenver.com 12/11 Saturday - Sunset Photo Tour. 2– 5pm. As 12/2 to 12/5, Thursday to Sunday – Finesse autumn leaves give way to falling snow, the Refuge 6:30-8pm . RSVP to 303.871.3715 or Bass Pro Events – 720.385.3600, Mitchell landscape provides a showcase for photographing [email protected] .The Ricks Center is located at www.BassPro.com 12/10 to 12/11, Friday to Saturday – Rickey Smi - bison, deer, hawks, coyotes, birds and more. Rec - the University of Denver, 2040 S. York St. Repeats 12/1 Wednesday – Ice Fishing 101 (every ley ommended for adults. FREE. 1/12/11 from 9:30am –11am. Wednesday in December) 12/16 to 12/19, Thursday to Sunday – Tom Wilson 12/18 Saturday- Eagles in the Sky. 7– 8pm. 12/ 9/10 Thursday- Professional and Execu - 12/2 Thursday – Get Ready for Ice Fishing (every 12/30 Thursday – Tony Rock HawkQuest will present an up close and personal tive MBA Roundtable. Admissions and enroll - Thursday in December) The Twisted Olive – 303.373.8100, encounter with their live bald eagle in celebration ment representatives from the Daniels College of 12/4 Saturday – Breakfast with Santa, 8 –9:30am www.TwistedOlive.com of migrating eagles in the area. Recommended for Business discuss their MBA programs in an inti - (accepting reservations until November 30) Spoken Word/Poetry , 9pm every Wednesday ; adults. mate setting. University of Denver, Daniels College 12/4 Saturday – Basic Pistol Course – Handgun of Business, Rm . 335. 5:30pm –7:30pm . FREE . RSVP : weekly live entertainment. 12/21 Tuesday - A Short Solstice. 1– 3pm. Beat Safety Kim Harja at 303.871.4760 or the winter blues and come celebrate the shortest 12/11, 12/12 Saturday & Sunday – Ice Fishing [email protected] day of the year. Find out how the winter solstice Weekend – Meet the Stars ROCKY MOUNTAIN ARSENAL 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 Tuesdays – Get Hooked on affects wildlife on the Refuge as we tour their dif - THEATER Fly Tying (for beginners) NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE ferent habitats. Through 12/ 24- Santa’s Big Red Sack. Avenue Reservations required for 12/26 Sunday - Holiday Tour. 9:30am –noon. Do Theater, 417 E 17th Ave . 303.321.5925 these popular programs. you have friends or relatives visiting for the holi - Through 12 /12- An Evening With Nina . 303.289.0930. To get to days? Take them on a unique outing to see deer, Shadow Theatre, 1468 Dayton St ., Aurora. refuge , take I -70, exit prairie dogs, eagles, hawks, coyotes and more. 720.857.8000, www.shadowtheatre.com north on Havana St, enter 12/30 Thursday - Friends of a Feather. 8– at 56th and Havana. Free 11am. Join the flock and spend the afternoon with Through 12/19- Red Ranger Came Calling, A unless noted. a Refuge birder in search of our wintering feath - True Christmas Story . Auora Fox Theatre, 9900 E. Colfax, Aurora . www.aurorafoxartscenter.org , Refuge Hours: Tuesdays to ered friends. Binoculars recommended. 303.739.1970 Sundays , 7am –5pm. Visi - tor Center Hours: Tues - SPORTS & FITNESS 12/7 through 12/19 - The Blue Man Group . days to Sundays , Buell Theater. www.denvercenter.org 12/4 Saturday- 3rd Annual Polar Plunge 9am –4pm. Benefiting Special Olympics. 10pm, Chatfield Through 12/18- Inspecting Carol . John Hand Wednesdays, Saturdays Reservoir. Participants asked to raise $85 in Theater, 7653 E . 1 st Pl ., Lowry. 720.880.8727, and Sundays -Wild Rides . pledges receive the “Freezin ’ for a Reason” T-shirt. www.johnhandtheater.com 9:30– 11:30am. Experience the www.specialolympicsco.org or 303.592.1361 Through 12/19- You Can’t Take It with You . sights and sounds of the 12/12 Sunday- 2010 Jingle Bell Run/Walk to Vintage Theatre, 2119 E . 17 th Ave. 303.839.1361, Refuge on this two-hour Benefit Rheumatoid Arthritis. Washington guided viewing tour. www.vintagetheatre.com Park. 10:15am . $30/ individual, $15 /12 and under. To 12/2 Thursday - Winter register: www.jinglebellrun/denver.kintera.org THEATER—DRAMA CLASSES FOR KIDS Raptors. 10am –noon . Learn 12/18 Saturday- Rudolph’s Revenge 5K/10K. the tips and tricks to identify - & TEENS AT FOX THEATRE Hudson Gardens . Race times : 9am and 10am. To ing several birds of prey dur - Classes for kids from ages 4 –17. Times vary, some ing this outing. register: www.winterdistanceseries.com weekday afternoons/evenings, some Saturdays. 12/5 Sunday - Animal STAPLETON/PARK HILL/LOWRY Registration is open for Jan. -Feb. sessions. Stu - Olympics. 1– 3pm. The dents should dress for movement for all classes. whole family can go for the EVENTS Consistent attendance is strongly encouraged for all performance classes. Performing arts skills gold with the remarkable ani - Broomball Teams forming at Big Bear Ice mals of the Refuge in this builds muscle, brains & self-esteem. Questions? Arena in Lowry. Drop -in practices begin 12/12 for Call Lisa Mumpton at 303-739-1973. To register, friendly competition. All ages men and women ages 21 and up. Fees are $8 per welcome. call 303-326-8650 or go online to www.auro - session and include 1 can of beer. www.big - rafox.org. bearice.com

No w Happy Holidays to all of our offeri ng free Friends and Neighbors. preg nancy From Jody Donley and the entire tests! New Perspective Real Estate Team. Get comfortable.

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November 2010 22 Stapleton Front Porch More Events... African American Spirituals Concert to Fund Kenyan Project Nonprofit Was Co-founded by 24-year-old NE Denver Native Open House Dec. 8 at Local Venture Prep DENVER ZOO By Nancy Burkhart Posner was a senior at the Denver 12/4 Saturday- Photo Safari. Learn Charter School eep River: A Spiritu - School of the Arts, which Jones’ nighttime photography techniques and see Venture Prep, a free, college-prep public charter als Concert and Talk daughter attended, Posner produced a Zoo Lights before it opens to the general school for grades 6–12 will host an open house at will benefit Shining play to benefit Jones’ Spirituals Project. public. Led by Zoo staff photographer Dave D Parsons, from 5:15 –7:30pm. Class limited their Park Hill Smiley campus on Wednesday, Hope for Communities He now wants to return the favor. to first 25 registrations. $40 members, $45 Dec. 8 from 6:30–7:30pm. Using project-based (SHC), a non-profit organiza - During his tenure on the Kenyan nonmembers. Register: learning to teach both academic content and skills tion co-founded by Kennedy Project’s board of directors, Jones spent www.denverzoo.org for the 21st-century, it is a small school where Odede and 24-year-old time in Kenya and visited the Kibera 12/10 Friday to 1/2/11 Sunday- Den - teachers can give each student personalized guid - northeast Denver native Jes - slum that Posner later would choose to ver Zoo Lights 20th Anniversary Cel - ance and support. sica Posner to combat gender help. “I feel very strongly that the best ebration. Nightly from 5 –9pm. $8 /ages 12 inequality and poverty in thing you can do is educate the young The school reports that last year’s students Dr. Arthur Jones and up, $6 /ages 65 and up, $4 /children 3 – made 1.6 years of growth in reading and math. A Nairobi, Kenya’s Kibera slum. girls,” he said in support of Shining 11. $2 discount for zoo members. www.denverzoo.org recent in-house survey showed 98 percent of the SHC has opened a school for girls, a com - Hope for Communities’ establishment of a school 12/11 Saturday and 12/12 Sunday- Break - parents said they would recommend the school to munity center and a community-run health for girls in Kibera. “I think that they’re on the right fast with Santa. One-hour seatings at other families and friends looking for a great clinic in the largest slum in Africa. track with that.” 9am and 10:30am. Breakfast buffet, ani - school. The concert will be held at 2 pm on Dec. Jones hopes that the songs that will be presented mal demonstrations and free carousel Venture Prep is located at 2540 Holly Street 5 at Saint Thomas Church, East 22nd Av - at the concert will provide a feeling for SHC’s ef - ride. www.denverzoo.org for pricing and reservations. and can be contacted at www.ventureprep.org or enue and Dexter Street. Admission is free. forts. “We expect that this tradition of songs that 303.893.0805 for enrollment and other informa - Donations are requested. was created by African peoples that were enslaved in 12/17 Friday to 12/21 Tuesday- Wild Musical fare will be presented by Dr. Ice. Power tools and blocks of ice = a tion. America is an ideal connection between this coun - magical artistic creation. Watch Santa’s Arthur Jones and pianist, Ingrid Thompson. try and the homeland of Africa,” Jones said. “There helpers create works of art in a special ice- Jones is a teacher, singer, clinical psychol - are some deep, spiritual messages that we hope peo - carving garden and catch fabulous fire Lowry Charitable Concert Series Debuts ogist, scholar, community worker and pro - ple will experience that are the spirit of what Jessica dancing at Zoo Lights. www.denverzoo.org Dec. 14 with “The Soul of the Season” fessor in the Women’s College at the and Kennedy are trying to do in Africa. 12/22 Wednesday- Desserts with A new monthly concert series is starting on Tues - University of Denver. He is founder and “We’re hoping that people who enjoy this music Santa. Visit with Santa and enjoy a stroll day nights at the Soiled Dove Underground music chair of the Spirituals Project, a non-profit we’re doing will come,” he added. “People who care through Zoo Lights. 6:30 –8:30pm. Tickets organization based at DU with the mission about poverty and oppression and enjoy a really in - $15 /kids 3 –11, 12 and up /$20. Tickets: venue in Lowry. The first concert will feature a www.denverzoo.org performance by Dave LeMieux and House of Soul of preserving and revitalizing sacred songs spiring concert will want to donate to the organiza - called spirituals that were created and sung tion.” 12/26 Sunday- Kwaanza . Celebrate the on Dec. 14. The event, called “The Soul of the by African Americans. Arthur Jones and his wife Dr. Christine Chao have cultural holiday honoring African-American Season,” will be a musical gumbo of Christmas fa - heritage through dance, music and educa - vorites and original melodies of the band, which is “This concert will be primarily coming lived in the Bellevue-Hale neighborhood for 27 years. tion. 5 –9pm. Included in Zoo Lights admis - also known for its community outreach. Future out of that tradition—old slave songs,” Jones Two adult sons, recently moved back to Denver with sion. www.denverzoo.org concerts will have seasonal themes and be a fam - said. “It will include some songs based on their families. Nmuta, 40, graduated from East HS and 12/31 Friday- Zoo Year’s Eve . 5– 9pm. ily-friendly, fun musical night out. the theme of Christmas. The songs were in - Sekou, 38, graduated from George Washington HS. The Zoo’s “Wild” family-friendly New This Lowry Merchants Association/Lowry fluenced by African culture, but the songs Nmuta currently teaches computer science at Denver Year’s Eve party with a countdown to the Foundation initiative has a broader community- were created in the United States.” School of Science and Technology. Sekou is a nurse new year at 9pm. Activities included in Zoo Jones chose to help Shining Hope for practitioner at Clinica Campesina in Thornton. Lights admission, $4 –$8. Tickets: www.den - building and charity component. Each month Communities because of his long-term rela - verzoo.org or 303.376.4800 Lowry merchants will nominate worthy organiza - Daughter Joella, 21, is a senior at Wesleyan University tionship with Posner and her family. When and a graduate of Denver School of the Arts. 12/31 Friday- Zoo Year’s Eve Kids - tions in different service categories and announce Only Bunk. 6pm –10am 1/1/11. Experi - the winning organization that will receive the pro - enced zoo instructors lead kids in games , ceeds from that evening’s concert. December’s cat - crafts and animal encounters. Kids partici - egory is local adoption agencies. pate in the Zoo Year ’s Eve early countdown Shows at 6pm and 8:30pm. Tickets: Bring Happiness to a Child with Cancer celebration. A private morning Zoo tour $20/adults, $10/12 and under, available at wraps up this special holiday event. The Stink Bug Project was founded by a 10-yr old cancer survivor www.soileddove.com or at the door. Soiled Dove $75/member , $85/nonmember. Includes and Stapleton resident. We match rescue dogs, trained by prisoners dinner, snacks and breakfast. Ages 6 –12. Underground, located at 7401 E. 1st Ave., features Register: www.denverzoo.org a full-service menu and can be contacted at going through rehabilitation, with children who are fighting cancer. 303.366.0007. Find out how you can help today! www.stinkbugproject.org

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Stapleton Front Porch 23 November 2010 P h o t o s

c o u r t e s y

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C o l Steve Lawrence Announces o .

C o n t Candidacy for Denver e m p .

D a

City Council District 11 n c e

A c a d e Editors’ Note: The m y Front Porch will print an announcement of candidacy from indi - viduals running for public office in our dis - tribution area. By Mark Mehringer Steve Lawrence, long- Schylar Gieringer, Macy Gosch, and Katherine Hueston. Claire Gieringer, Jasmine Lairsmith, and Lili Quintana. time Denver resident and Stapleton United Neighbors president, Dancing (and Winning) with Our Local Stars has announced his run for Denver City Council in District 11 to replace By Judith Schwartz outgoing Councilman Michael Hancock. Steve is a t was an exciting competition for Katrina Lairsmith’s the popular TV hit, So You Think You Can Dance . It seems dedicated community activist and businessman young dance students who brought home top awards that TV dance shows, including Dancing With the Stars and with considerable experience in personnel and Ifrom a regional competition put on by Los Angeles- Glee , have youth, and adults, just feeling they gotta dance. budget management. based Co. Dance on November 5–7. Co. Dance puts on A well-regarded dancer and choreographer, Katrina be - Steve’s priorities are to bring jobs and a busi - what it calls “dream dance conventions” around the coun - lieves that dance is about passion. She quotes Martha Gra - ness-friendly environment to northeast Denver. He try. The local dancers were pitted against performers from ham: Great dancers are not great because of their technique, is working to create an online tool to help local more than 20 studios across Colorado. they are great because of their passion. She concentrates on small businesses create new jobs for area residents. Katrina Lairsmith, the artistic director of Colorado work ethic with her students because their hard work and In early December, Steve will visit businesses in Contemporary Dance Academy, located in Quebec passion for dance will spill over into every endeavor they Park Hill, Stapleton, Montbello and Green Valley Square, is ecstatic about her students. They emerged first- strive for in life. Ranch to discuss job development, excellence in time winners in two categories, Petite, ages 6–9 years old, “If they give 1,000 percent to their passion, they cannot public education and building sustainable “green” and Teen, ages 13–15, with their contemporary dance fail,” and she adds, “The universe never rewards laziness.” communities. routines. Two of her students have also been awarded an She also received the competition’s Educator of the Year Steve’s community service includes appointment opportunity to meet with agents in LA. award, which is especially rewarding for this guest teacher by Mayor Hickenlooper to the Justice Center Op - “Some studios have been training students for over 20 at the Denver School of the Arts, where many of her older erations Committee and election to the Westerly years, but our studio, open just five years, has now shown students come from, and many of her younger students Creek Metropolitan District board. He has served how far our dancers have come. This brings us national hope to attend. on committees in the areas of creating jobs for peo - prominence,” she stated with a very proud tone. The Damsels is her all-female contemporary dance ple with disabilities, mental health awareness, The entries went before four judges, including Lauren group that performs to raise money for women in crisis, es - homelessness and criminal justice reform. Learn Gotlieb, a contestant, then choreographer, now all-star for pecially those at The Gathering Place. They made it more about Steve and his campaign at www.Choos - through Denver auditions eSteve.com. for America’s Got Talent Mark Mehringer is Steve Lawrence’s campaign and will know in April if manager. they get on the show. Colorado Contempo - rary Dance Academy presently has about 100 students, who can start at age two. Classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop, lyrical and modern are offered and Our low rates will save registration is ongoing. you so much, it will be like The academy is lo - cated at 7505 E. 35th getting FREE holiday gifts! Street and can be con - tacted at 303.333.1885 or Call today for a quote www.coloradocontempo - 303-955-0861 rarydance.com. [email protected] Kevin D. Tafoya 2332 Central Park Blvd., Denver, 80238

November 2010 24 Stapleton Front Porch A Place for Animal Lovers and help the pets match up with families to get support the Denver Dumb Friends League mission,” their perfect homes. she explained. “If you love animals and you want ani - Park Hill resident Linda Royer is an animal mals to have a home or you’re in veterinary medicine or lover who has been finding pets for her family at you’re interested in animal behavior, then it’s for you. the Denver Dumb Friends League for some 30 They have a need for dog walkers, behavior people like years. Now that she has time for volunteering, cat petters, and for people to work in every aspect of she has gone through the two-and-a-half-hour animal care. orientation session and did an interview to de - “This volunteerism gives me all that wonderful con - termine whether she would make a good adop - tact with people that I love, and the pleasure of people tion counselor. adopting animals,” Royer said. “You have the satisfac - When a person comes to the Denver Dumb tion of knowing that the animals that have been aban - Friends League to adopt a pet, they are asked to doned or abused are going home with someone who submit information about their family and their will love them.” home. An adoption counselor talks to them To learn more about volunteering at the Denver about the kind of pet and the kind of tempera - Dumb Friends League, 2080 S. Quebec St., go to ment they are seeking. The counselor picks out www.ddfl.org and click on “Volunteer” on the left side. animals that fit the family’s requirements. They An application can be accessed there. For questions know the animals’ health and the breeds and about volunteering, call Volunteer Services Manager how they will act within the home situation that Jasmin Rice at 303.751.5722, extension 7246 or email may include other pets or children. her at [email protected]. “The DFL takes the time to help you adopt the right pet,” Royer said. “I want to work as an adoption counselor. The people behind the desk have the ability to tell you about the dog or cat. I Rescued a Human Today by Janine Allen They will pick out the animals that you want to see. And they will tell you if a dog doesn’t like Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor kids or a cat doesn’t like other animals. The idea peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her is to find the animal that will succeed with that need instantly and knew I had to help her. person. We don’t want to have animals returned Linda Royer, a Dumb Friends League volunteer, sits on the porch of her Park I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn’t Hill home with her two rescue dogs, Skywalker, 12, (left) and Comet, 6. because it was a bad selection. be afraid. As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her “They don’t want to hurry you,” she ex - view from a little accident I had in the back of my By Nancy Burkhart plained. “They want you to take some time. It’s the interac - cage. I didn’t want her to know that I hadn’t been ets are a part of the family in many homes today. And a tion that I have with people that’s fun. I think that personal walked today. Sometimes the overworked shelter large number of those pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits touch makes a difference.” keepers get too busy and I didn’t want her to think poorly of them. Pand guinea pigs, found their homes through the services Royer said that becoming a volunteer at the Denver of the Denver Dumb Friends League. Dumb Friends League has reminded her of when her family As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn’t The largest animal welfare organization in the Rocky adopted an Australian shepherd mix dog. “The first dog they feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look Mountain region receives more than 25,000 pets each year. brought in ran for the corner when he saw the kids,” she forward to and want to make a difference in some - Volunteers are needed to pet, exercise, bathe, clean kennels said. “Then they brought in the second dog. The kids were one’s life. all over him and he licked She got down on her knees and made little kissy them all over and came sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my back for more. He was head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fin - ours.” Today, Royer’s two gertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for com - daughters, Charlee and panionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Raechel, are grown and have their own pets and Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so Royer and her husband, bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. Dennis, have two Lab mixes. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. Denver Dumb Friends I would promise to do everything I could to see that League volunteers are asked radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes. Providing distinctively excellent to commit to working ap - I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. orthodontic care for your entire proximately three hours a week for a six-month pe - So many more are out there who haven’t walked the family in the heart of Stapleton. corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could riod. Volunteers must be at save one. least 16 years old. Volunteers have to have I rescued a human today a real love for animals, Call 303-31-ORTHO Royer said. “You have to ------for a complimentary consultation “I rescued a human today” is printed with permission from the RescueMeDog.org website whose mission is: to welcome and guide you through the wonderful world of dog shelters; promote shelter adoption as your first option; and provide educational and training resources for adoptive parents and their canine compan - ions. http://rescuemedog.org/dog-blog/i-rescued-a-human-today- by-janine-allen/

“I rescued a human today” was written by Janine Allen CPDT, Res - cue Me Dog’s professional dog trainer. Janine’s passion is working with people and their dogs. She provides demonstrations for those who have adopted shelter dogs, lends email support to adopted dog owners that need information beyond our Training Support Pages, and aids shelter staff and volunteers in understanding dog behavior to increase their adoptability. Copyright 2010 Rescue Me Dog; www.rescuemedog.org

Stapleton Front Porch 25 November 2010 FasTracks Information Sessions Dec. 1 and 2 By Kevin Flynn Central Park Boulevard. CoPIRG Pushes for Colorado TD’s East Corridor FasTracks project In order to get the public familiar with the is getting under construction with start-up of this project, RTD’s contractor on Energy Rating System Rearly field work and utility reloca - the project, Denver Transit Partners, will tions the rest of this year and the heaviest hold three open house events. The presenta - work beginning next summer. The 23-mile tion will include an overview of the FasTracks corridor will be the Denver metro area’s first Eagle P3 Project of which the East Corridor commuter rail project and will connect is a part. The project also includes the Gold downtown’s Denver Union Station with Line commuter rail corridor to Arvada and Denver International Airport. It is scheduled Wheat Ridge and a segment of the NW Rail to open in January 2016. corridor to south Westminster. Unlike RTD’s existing light rail system, RTD staff and members of the Denver commuter rail uses larger, heavier and faster Transit Partners team will be available.The vehicles. They are electric-powered cars like open houses will start with light refreshments light rail but seat more people and meet at 5:30pm. The presentation begins at crash safety standards set by the Federal 6:15pm.They will be held: Railroad Administration. Commuter rail Wednesday, Dec. 1, RedLine Community travels at greater speeds and is better suited Gallery, 2350 Arapahoe St. for longer runs such as those to the airport. Thursday, Dec. 2, Bruce Randolph Mid - Top speed for light rail is 55 mph. For com - dle School, 3955 Steele St. muter rail, it will be 79 mph. Kevin Flynn is the public information man - The project runs through the Stapleton ager for the RTD FasTracks Eagle P3 Project. Keelin Kelly, energy associate with CoPIRG, and Gene Myers, CEO of New Town Builders, area along the existing Smith Road railroad He can be reached at kevin.flynn@rtd-fas - held a news conference recently in Stapleton to explain the details of an energy rating corridor, and includes a major station at tracks.com or 303.299.2898. system for homes for rent or sale. By Jon Meredith tle their bills by turning down their Brownies Contribute to Shelter and Learn about Homelessness efore you buy or rent a home, heat and wearing sweaters,” stated would you like to know how Kelly. “That can only do so much be - By Karyn Weakliem cheered and greeted them. As the girls left that Benergy efficient the property is? cause the biggest factors are the design ine Brownies from Troop 2895 had an day with empty bags and arms, they walked You can find out what the utility bills of the home and the efficiency gadgets eye-opening experience when they col - away with more than they arrived with.Our have been, but you have no idea how inside.” She went on to say the con - Nlected towels and delivered them to a hearts were full and our eyes were opened to the previous owner or tenant con - sumers know the estimated mpg’s when homeless shelter. Andrew Spinks, the develop - what it means to be homeless. We realized how served energy and you don’t have an they buy a car and they know how effi - ment director at St. Francis Center, asked the fortunate we are and what little difference stands indication how the property will per - cient every appliance in their home is. Brownies some questions they’d never thought between us all.Troop members are: Karsen Kin - form under new rates and surcharges Why shouldn’t there be a similar rating about. “If you were to pack everything most ning, Abby Gage, Elaina Weakliem, Nora Dool - power companies have imposed. The for housing, the most expensive bill treasured to you in one backpack, what would ing, Abi Butters, Kendall Reed, Ellie Lambert, surcharge on electric usage by Xcel last consumers have? you choose and where would you keep it safe? If Ella Gage and Saskia Angelov.St. Francis Cen - summer is a good example. Some air- The idea behind the rating system is you did not have a phone, where would you call ter is located at 2323 Curtis St. On an average conditioning systems are far more effi - that consumers should be able to take your family or receive phone calls about job in - day, the shelter is visited by 642 different peo - cient than others—and those others into account the energy efficiency of a terviews? Where would you do laundry or take a ple; almost 10,000 different individuals every cost more to cool last summer because property prior to purchasing or signing shower?” These questions tested the troop’s lim - year. Each visitor costs $5 a day for all services; there was a surcharge imposed after a lease. It would further encourage ited knowledge of what it truly means to be $2,500 per day to run the shelter. St. Francis 500 kilowatts were used during the property owners to make much-needed without a home. collects clothing year-round and gives away over billing period. energy improvements to properties be - Over a six-week period, the nine girls talked 90,000 units of clothing annually. For more in - A new proposal by the Colorado fore leasing or selling. to people in their communities and schools formation, visit www.sfcdenver.org. Items they Public Interest Research Group The rating system would be an easy- (Westerly Creek, Bill Roberts, Park Hill, Polaris currently need are listed on the website at -> (CoPIRG) will try to encourage the to-understand index from 0 to 100, and Bromwell) about the needs at the St. Francis Contributions -> In-kind contributions. state legislature to pass legislation that with a completely energy-efficient Center, and collected over 100 towels and wash - Karen Weakliem is the leader for Brownie will require all properties to display at home receiving a score of zero. It would cloths for the homeless shelter. St. Francis pro - Troop 2895. the time of rental or sale an energy rat - include an estimate of the amount of vides a place for Denver’s homeless men and For more information about homelessness and ing system that differentiates energy- money that is being lost or saved in women to stay during the day when other shel - items needed visit: www.sfc efficient properties from utility bills as a result of the property’s ters are unavailable. St. Francis also provides re - denver.org/html/homeless energy-inefficient ones. energy efficiency as compared to simi - sources through their outreach program, a place issues.html I used to own a home in Park Hill lar properties. to shower, clothing for job and my wife and I would cringe every The cost of rating the property is es - interviews and job skills. time the heat bill came in the mail timated to be between $200 and $700 They also provide a safe during the winter. Heating bills were dollars, depending on the property size. place to store valuables, a sometimes 25 percent of our mortgage New Town Builders encourages the phone and message center, a Looking for work? payment. We now own an energy-effi - adoption of this rating system. They mailbox and many other cient home in Stapleton and opening believe it pays to build energy-efficient services.Visiting and con - Check out our website at the heating bill is not a source of anxi - homes since it increases the demand for tributing to St. Francis was a www.excelpersonnel.com for openings! ety. their product. New Town says they will learning experience and the Keelin Kelly, energy associate with have homes on the Stapleton market girls were thankful to be able Apply online or call 303-427-4600 CoPIRG, and Gene Myers, CEO of that are energy neutral (a zero on the to help. As the Brownie New Town Builders, held a news con - rating system) when they build on their troop walked into St. Francis Proudly servicing the ference recently in Stapleton to explain next filing—that means the net cost of carrying bags and arms full the details of this proposal. gas and electricity for those properties of towels, the shelter guests Denver area since 1992! “Many Coloradans will try to bat - will be zero. were all smiles as they Excel Personnel is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

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December 2010 26 Stapleton Front Porch Letters to the Editor — Fee-based Events in Parks #5 Plastics Now Accepted Editor: Dave Felice ([email protected]), a long-time opponent of ad - As an avid Denver Park user I became concerned after reading missions based events, is an At Large Member of the Greater Park for Denver Recycling Mr. Meredith's article about new Denver Parks and Recreation Hill Board of Governors. He is also a member of the INC Parks Includes yogurt and most tub-style containers policy to close off part of some Denver Parks to allow for ad - and Recreation Committee. He participated on the Admissions mission based events and decided to investigate further. I Based Special Events Policy (ABSEP) Task Force. learned that Stapleton's Central Park was one of the 6 (out of Commentary by Dave Felice: 231) designated parks to be permitted for admission based Denver’s next mayor faces continuing controversy over the pre - events in 2011. Parks and Recreation has recommended the vious administration’s policy to allow event operators to close area around the playground be permitted for paid events for up parts of public parks and charge admission. Opponents con - to 3,000 people. It could be permitted for up to 4 weekend tend it is wrong to allow private interests to stage exclusive days per month and closed off to the public on those days. commercial events in parks. I live close to the designated area. This past summer we Outgoing Mayor John W. Hickenlooper usually directs op - had problems with the small events (maybe 300 people) per - position to his Parks and Recreation Manager, Kevin Patterson, mitted in this area. Violations of noise ordinances have oc - who often ignores public comment. Patterson never acknowl - curred and there has been excess parking in the adjacent edged receipt of a written resolution from Greater Park Hill neighborhoods. Traffic on MLK is disrupted as people cruise Community Inc., opposing admissions based events. the area trying to find parking. It appeared that there was lit - In a rare e-mail to Congress Park Neighbors, someone from tle supervision of the events by Park personnel. It is difficult Hickenlooper’s office recently asserted: “After receiving numer - to imagine events for 3,000 people! ous requests…the City embarked on a process to determine the I object to admission based events in our parks in general, best way to allow these events.” particularly in areas regularly used by the public as gathering The statement is conjectural and disingenuous. There is lit - areas. In Central Park, the area around the playground and the tle documentation of demand for admissions based events. fountain are the most heavily used area of the park, full on Hickenlooper may have his own ideas, or may be misguided. summer weekends. Large events would disrupt normal usage of The Parks Department’s response to a Colorado Open the park by the public (taxpayers who already pay for the Records Act (CORA) request by Parks are for People parks). It would undermine the quality of life in the surround - (www.parksareforpeople.org) shows written interest conspicu - ing neighborhoods, cause over parking, noise pollution and ously lacking. Parks staff admitted there were no telephone traffic congestion on a main artery through Stapleton. records of any inquiries. Admission based events in public parks is a change in city policy that has strong opposition for many good reasons. The Administration claims advantages estimated revenue is a small part of the city’s budget and it will “By permitting these (admissions based) events…we can ac - deny access to the parks by the people who really pay for them. tivate our parks, encourage usage…and create new revenue,” Yoplait’s partnership with Denver’s recycling program means Michele Fuerst said the unattributed message from Hickenlooper’s office. that all #5 plastics can now be placed in recycling bins. ------Activation is arguable. It is already difficult to find solace in Editor: many parks. Large nonprofit events, such as Furry Scurry and enver residents can now include yogurt cups and I would like to point out two corrections to Jon Meredith’s No - Race for the Cure, already overwhelm parks and surrounding all #5 plastic (with no lids or foil) in their purple vember article: The outdoor movie company did get approval neighborhoods. As with the recent Rock and Roll Marathon, recycling carts. Yoplait has partnered with the city D to use Civic Center Park, but the company itself chose not to these events cause serious havoc with traffic and routine activities. and Waste Management to add #5 plastics to Denver’s go forward because of a lack of financial backing. Most re - The initial impact on Stapleton’s Central Park may be less curbside recycling. “Though this project is intended to in - cently, the principals of OpenAir Cinema have cancelled the than other locations. The park is large, the trees are not ma - crease recycling of Yoplait yogurt cups, we recognize that contract and the company is leaving the Denver market. ture, and surrounding residential areas are less dense than other #5 plastic should be included as well,” said Scott Denver's Red Rocks facility consists of a PARK and an City Park. However, parking is already a problem at Central Bradley, area vice president for Waste Management. Waste amphitheater. Admissions based events are held only in the Park. Because media coverage has been minimal, few Staple - Management and Denver Recycles will collect and deliver amphitheater, which is operated by the city's Theaters and ton residents have likely contemplated the disruption of the materials to Waste Management’s regional recycling fa - Arenas Department, not Parks and Recreation. fenced music concerts in the park. cility for sorting and measurement. From there, #5 plastic Dave Felice Patterson has said revenue is not the primary reason for can be repurposed for various products, from toothbrushes closed commercial events in city (continued on p. 28) to new food packaging to traffic lights. Why are only specific plastics picked by Denver's recy - cling program? According to Denver Recycles’ website (Denvergov.org/recapp), plastics vary greatly by their resin types and how they are manufactured. Plastics are catego - rized into seven general resin types. There are also two common manufacturing processes. Plastic bottles are “blow molded” and most plastic tubs are “injection molded.” As a result of the different resin types, the differ - ent manufacturing processes and the different mixes of chemical additives (dyes, plasticizers, UV inhibitors, sof - teners, adhesives and more), plastics melt at different tem - peratures and have different physical properties—and as such need to be recycled differently. Once plastics are separated into their varying cate - gories, they must then be shipped to a recycler. The dis - tance to these plastic markets can be large and the cost to ship certain types of plastic to distant processing facilities may simply be more expensive than the material’s value. Some markets are very limited and are overstocked with plastics for recycling. To determine what plastics can be recycled, Denver Re - cycles recommends that residents check the neck of the container. Bottles have a neck or opening smaller than the base of the container. Most bottles and jars also have a screw-on top (for example: milk, juice, soft drinks, deter - gent bottles and peanut butter jars). Plastic bottles should be flattened and caps should be removed since they are usually made from a different type of resin than the con - tainer itself. Also, many caps are so small they fall out dur - ing the material sorting process. Containers with caps or lids left on can also prevent the containers from being compacted properly. Other items accepted by Denver’s recycling program include: Steel and empty aerosol cans that are empty (no full or partially full cans); Aluminum cans, foil, trays and pie plates; paper with paper clips, stamps, staples, tape and sticky notes are ok; shredded paper in paper bags, flattened cardboard no bigger than 2 feet by 2 feet, phone books. NOT ACCEPTED are foil chip bags, food containers with a wazy white coating on the inside, wax-coated card - board milk or juice cartons, paper coffee cups, Tyvek ship - ping envelopes or plastic wrappers.

Stapleton Front Porch 27 December 2010 Letters to the Editor

(continued from p. 27) parks. There is no formal cost- benefit analysis. Estimates of potential income are small. When all support costs are calculated, the city SUN Meetings are held on the 4th Monday of every month at could end up losing money. 7:30pm in the Stapleton Community Room, 2823 Roslyn Street. For Objections widespread information about SUN, visit www.stapletonunitedneighbors.com. There is more opposition than support. Many Reg - To contact SUN or confirm meeting time, email istered Neighborhood Organizations (RNOs) joined [email protected] or call 720-840-8492. Inter-Neighborhood Cooperation (INC) with individ - ual resolutions of opposition. Patterson adopted the policy after a contentious vote by the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Re - sponding to the Board, Patterson limited the number In the Business of Being “Green” and duration of commercial events. City Charter calls for a public vote on leasing of By Caroline Batorowicz, LEED AP public park land. The City Attorney, also an appointee of the mayor, made a questionable interpretation of sn’t everyone who lives in Stapleton obsessed with sus - products for babies and kids. What I mostly love about Charter to allow the admissions policy. tainability? Perhaps not. Your friendly, neighborhood this store is their assortment of cloth diapers. Before I Hickenlooper leaves the next mayor encumbered SUN organization created the Sustainability Committee entered this shop, I didn’t give cloth diapering a second I with an unnecessarily divisive policy. The controversy in 2009 to handle this obsession for you. We are crazy thought. But after all, how can I preach sustainability could be resolved if the city administration declared about being “green” and are dedicated to fostering a health - yet at the same time contribute to the addition of 3.4 public parks free and open at all times. ier lifestyle for all of Stapleton’s residents and neighbors. billion disposable diapers to landfills each year? It takes With District 11 Councilman Michael Hancock This is why we are interested in providing a beneficial 450 years for a disposable diaper to biodegrade running for mayor, the next council representative resource in the form of a “green” business directory. One of (http://www.epa.gov/gmpo/edresources/debris_t.html, from Stapleton may also have to deal with the policy. the biggest sources of greenhouse gases is commercial devel - while millions of tons of human waste lay in our land - If there is demand, the city ought to build a full- opment; it is critical that all commercial facilities use sus - fills and contaminate the water supply. So after spend - time festival facility with permanent infrastructure and tainable practices. Therefore, we are asking all Stapleton ing 30 minutes in front of the many different cloth access to public transportation. business owners who practice sustainable actions to contact diapers and talking to the very lovely and knowledge - us. We want to know what makes you green. How do you able owner, Alyson, I was sold. I attended a cloth dia - Council views split encourage healthier lifestyles? What kind of services do you per class, which is offered at Naturally Loved, and now Hancock and his Advisory Board appointee, Scott provide that impact our environment? Is your business run my husband and I are cloth diaper pros. Thank you, Gilmore, suggest a public vote is appropriate. out of your home? Then tell us how you incorporate sus - Alyson, for providing Stapleton with this wonderful Councilwoman Carla Madison, a proponent, tainability into your everyday schedule. Do you own a resource. Your green business is an amazing addition to posted the policy on her web site. City Park, an commercial property in Stapleton? Then tell us if you pro - our lives. events site, is in Madison’s district. vide organic fare, use compact fluorescent light bulbs, com - Being green isn’t just good for the Earth, it is also US OpenAir Cinema has cancelled plans close a post or recycle. Perhaps your business involves a lot of vital to our well-being. Our health and our survival de - section of City Park for outdoor movies. driving. Do you offset your carbon emissions? Or maybe pend on being proactive. It is important for individu - After residents objected, District 1 Councilwoman you are a diehard fan of sustainability and do not use mo - als to be green, but also important for businesses, big Paula Sandoval asked Patterson to remove Sloan's Lake bile phones in your business in order to protect endangered and small, to try to function sustainably as well. So from the list of parks for admissions based events. gorillas and their habitat (http://www.nwf.org). Our goal is whether you only put hemp on your baby’s bum or use Patterson added Ruby Hill Park in District 7 as a to educate the community about the importance of being tin cans to communicate with your tree-house child, festival park. Councilman Chris Nevitt, describes op - green, and at the same time acknowledge those conscien - you are in the business of being green, and we are position of admissions based events as “hysteria, ex - tious business owners who run their businesses sustainably. grateful to you. tremism, and narrow-minded parochial interests.” One such business is our newest shop on the block, Nat - Caroline Batorowicz is a SUN Board member and sits Surveyed by Councilwoman Jeanne Faatz, residents urally Loved. This wonderful store in the Town Center pro - on the Sustainability Committee. She can be reached by of District 2 in southwest Denver responded with 51 motes wholesome living by providing natural and organic email at [email protected]. percent opposed and 49 percent in favor. Civic Center, Confluence, and Skyline Parks are in primarily non-residential areas. Hickenlooper’s former strategist, Lindy Eichenbaum-Lent, heads Civic Cen - ter Conservancy with the objective of “activating” the park. Have you signed up Opposition still strong The fundamental principle is the same as when the for Art Classes yet? discussion started three years ago. Tax money paid for Classes for Tots, Kids, the public parks. Commercial enterprises have no pre - Teens, and Ladies! rogative to usurp public property. Public parks must be free and open. It is wrong to close park property and exclude those who do not, or cannot, pay admission. This is a classic case of the www.StartArtKids.com “rip it out of the ground and sell it” philosophy. Stew - 720-227-4907 ardship of public property cannot be abandoned. [email protected] The controversy is documented on the web site, www.savecitypark.org (http://groups.google.com/group/save-city-park). State parks different Open Your Heart. Hickenlooper’s office considers state parks different New Day because “the State Park system already charges a gate For information Acupuncture fee.” on becoming a In spite of a recognized general admission fee, state Treating: Pain • Allergies • Stress, parks have full-time rangers, and, generally higher op - foster parent, Anxiety & other Emotional Complaints erating costs. Nobody has suggested large-scale com - Call 303.217.5858 Digestive Ailments • Women’s Health mercial events INSIDE state parks. There are, Issues • Children’s Health however, proposals that some state park locations be opened to oil and gas drilling. Bruce Stoebner, L.Ac. • 720-838-7918 In a rare public statement, Hickenlooper told envi - Free consultation • Herbal pharmacy www.acupuncture-in-denver.com ronmental affairs writer Joanne Ditmer that he would Open Your Home. 2840 Xanthia Ct., Stapleton not support admissions based events in state parks.

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Letters to the Editor Display Advertising The Front Porch will publish letters to To place a display ad, please visit the editor as space allows. Please email www.FrontPorchStapleton.com. Display ad Carol Roberts, editor, The Front Porch reservations are due the 10th of the month. at [email protected]. (See our ad on page 8.)

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Stapleton Front Porch 29 December 2010 With Hickenlooper’s Move to Guv, Four (So Far) Have Stepped into Mayor’s Race

off between the top two vote two were elected three times. (Denver has way for John Hickenlooper’s candidacy. getters. never elected a woman mayor.) William Hickenlooper was a bit of a “strange duck” Although the races are non- McNichols, was voted mayor in 1968 and in political circles. An East Coast transplant, partisan, Denver has elected reelected twice more. He may well have former geologist and very successful brewpub mayors who are Democrats been elected a fourth time if not for the owner when he ran in 2003, the majority of since 1963 when Republican Christmas blizzard of 1982, which dumped voters apparently supported his view of Den - Richard Batterton left office. up to four feet of snow. Public Works crews ver as a “great city” and had confidence that However, in 1983 Republican never got the alleys and the side streets his business background would serve him well Donald Bain, a well-known plowed before the spring thaw. That was in running the business side of city govern - local attorney, challenged Peña just prior to the May election and perhaps ment. A long shot when he started campaign - Hickenlooper, shown as he announced his candidacy for to a very close runoff. the deciding factor that put Federico Peña ing, Denverites quickly were impressed with governor in front of the State Capitol in January 2010. The initial election will be on into office. his attention to detail and business savvy. He May 3rd with the potential Peña is remembered for spearheading the has the ability to articulate solutions to com - runoff set for June 7th. Voters will choose building of Denver International Airport plex problems in terms that are easily under - (continued from page 1) the Mayor, Auditor, Clerk and Recorder, and and the closing of Stapleton. His campaign standable. Hickenlooper was reelected with Denver’s Citywide Election thirteen City Council members, any of slogan was “Imagine a Great City.” Where close to 75% of the vote in 2007. In 2008 he Process which could need a run-off election if no the new airport would be located, how it was instrumental in bringing the Democratic Mayoral races in Denver have been tradi - candidate gets over 50% of the vote. The was to be financed, and the initial oversight National Convention to the Mile High City. tionally non-partisan affairs. That is why May 3rd ballot may also contain initiatives, of its construction were all serious issues Now he will move across Civic Center Park to our city elections are a little different than referenda, Charter amendments, or other re - Peña dealt with prior to the opening of the the Capitol. most other political contests. Instead of ferred measures. new airport, which took place during the primaries for Republican and Democratic Webb administration in February 1995. Issues candidates, all candidates that complete Recent Denver Mayors Peña also began the process of redevelop - All of the current candidates will have their the petition process that is verified by the It appears Denver residents have been very ment in both Stapleton and Lowry. He did own ideas on what needs to be done with edu - city elections division are on one ballot. happy with their choices for mayor since not run for a third term, choosing instead cation reform, the city’s budget and, of course, Unless one candidate gets over 50% of 1968. Only four men have been mayor since to become Bill Clinton’s Secretary of Trans - creation of jobs. Other issues that have come the vote there will be a subsequent run- then—all were elected to a second term and portation. up are relations with law enforcement; water; Much like today, the mayoral race in overlapping of city services; gay, lesbian, bi- 1991 was chock full of really good candi - sexual and transgender (GLBT) issues; job dates. Wellington Webb won in a runoff programs for youth, and the timely comple - against Norm Early to become Denver’s tion of FasTracks. If you have any issues that first black mayor. Webb was known for al - you believe the candidates need to address, ways wearing running shoes during the please email the Front Porch at FrontPorch - campaign and visiting neighborhoods [email protected] and we’ll ask candidates throughout Denver. He called it his to respond. “sneaker campaign.” Webb took office right before the “summer of violence” when there Announced Candidates was a record number of murders in Denver and a significant increase in gang activity. Michael Keith Forrester Mr. Forrester is cur - Webb took the time to listen to neighbor - rently a student at Metro State majoring in ed - hood groups and dedicate funds for an in - ucation with an emphasis on sports medicine. creased police presence, including a separate He has a background in law enforcement and “gang unit” that, over time, reduced the in - public safety. He has been an EMT instructor cidence of gang violence. Webb oversaw the since 2007. He moved to Colorado in 1999 completion of DIA and the closing of Sta - from Tennessee. pleton. During his third term, Colorado Forrester is a relative unknown who has not voters passed term limits, which paved the held any public office. He knows he will need

December 2010 30 Stapleton Front Porch James Mejia – James Mejia grew up in Park Hill, is an With Hickenlooper’s Move to Guv, Four (So Far) Have Stepped into Mayor’s Race East High graduate and is the ninth of to get out and meet people and try to gain as much exposure jobs to the Mile High City by focusing on small business 13 children. He as possible. As just an average person, he believes he brings expansion and ensuring that there is sufficient structure in went on to gradu - some common sense and reality to the race that people can place to grow Denver’s economy. ate from Notre certainly relate to. Councilman Hancock is married to his middle-school Dame. His parents As mayor, his top priorities will be to bring jobs to the sweetheart and they have three children. were teachers and city and address water issues and police-citizen relationships. so are several of his In his literature he identifies himself as a gay candidate Doug Linkhart – Councilman Linkhart has represented all brothers and sisters. and states that he will stand up for gay, lesbian, bi-sexual of Denver as one of He was Parks and and transgender (GLBT) issues. He has been concerned the two at-large Recreation Man - about the rise in gay teen suicides and states he faced a members on the ager under Welling - tremendous amount of bullying growing up gay in a small City Council. He ton Webb, spent Tennessee town. (Mr. Forrester did not provide a photo.) has been on the four years on the Council since 2003 James Mejia Board of Educa - Michael B. Hancock – Councilman Hancock has repre - and prior to that he tion, and most re - sented Stapleton and served eight years as cently was the project manager on the Denver Justice much of Northeast a State Senator and Center, which was a public/private partnership. He is Denver in Council two years in the Sate currently CEO of the Denver Preschool Program, which District 11 since House. Before get - provides tuition credits for parents who send their chil - 2003. He served two ting into public serv - dren to preschools in the program’s network. terms as Council Pres - ice, Linkhart was a Mr. Mejia was the first candidate to throw his hat in ident from 2006 to business economist, the ring for mayor, announcing back in June. His first 2008. He is well Doug Linkhart working with ven - priority as mayor will be education reform with a huge known in Northeast ture capitalists and emphasis on ensuring kids graduate from high school. Denver for being ac - large banks to analyze which regions and cities were best Mass transportation, the completion of FasTracks, which cessible to con - for long-term investment. He moved to Denver in 1980. is already way behind schedule and over budget, is a top stituents and working Linkhart has proposed and passed city ordinances al - priority because “great cities need great transportation.” to resolve their issues lowing for solar panels on homes and windmills under cer - He will promote job creation by increasing funding to by helping to ensure tain codes. He has a long record of being supportive of small business through low-interest loans. In dealing with Michael Hancock fair and equitable de - youth programs that lead to jobs, sustainability and eco - the City budget issues, he will present novel approaches livery of services such nomic development. to trying to balance the budget and eliminate agency as libraries, rec centers, road repairs, police protection, street While many candidates will concentrate on fixing Den - overlap and waste. He notes that Denver Health’s LEAN sweeping, trash collection and neighborhood inspections. ver’s budget issue, Linkhart believes there is enough money program has saved the city $50 million by empowering He helped facilitate and coordinate the new school being in the budget and that we need to move money around to employees to reduce costs. He believes a similar program built in Stapleton and is a firm believer that “great schools make the current budget successful. Linkhart looks back to can be implemented citywide. make great neighborhoods.” when the Peña administration took office. That was during Hancock attended Manual High School, graduating in the recession that deeply affected Denver in the early ‘80s. Who else may join the race? 1987 as head boy. He went to Hastings College in Nebraska Peña charted a course of spending on infrastructure and Candidates who have not officially announced but have before receiving a master’s in public administration from new public buildings. Linkhart believes today we need to filled out the preliminary filings with Denver Elections CU-Denver in 1995. He then went on to join Metro Den - have the same sort of commitment but invest in people, are: Dwight Eisen Henson; Danny F. Lopez, a city em - ver’s Urban League affiliate and became its president in ensuring their ability to be qualified to go and find good ployee who ran against Mayor Hickenlooper in 2007; 1999. At the time, he was the youngest Urban League presi - jobs right here in Denver. Chris Romer, currently a State Senator; and Kenneth R. dent in the nation. Simpson. As a new mayor, Hancock’s top priority will be to bring

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Stapleton Front Porch 31 December 2010 December 2010 32 Stapleton Front Porch