tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-270766442012-01-20T14:14:17.179-07:00Perceptions on life in Denver's revitalized Cole Neighborhood, as written by a new resident and homeowner. NOT AFFILIATED IN ANY WAY WITH THE COLE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONBigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.comBlogger1451100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-26324803072218445702012-01-16T21:56:00.002-07:002012-01-20T08:15:57.674-07:00

Gosh, I haven't written anything in so long. In all reality that is likely a good thing, as my Mom always says, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." I've always tried to shoot it straight about the ups and downs of living in Cole, while injecting some humor, and it has been very satisfying that a good number of people have found it entertaining, or even

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-14752904475304784832011-06-17T09:54:00.001-06:002011-06-17T09:56:07.517-06:00

With all the shooting going on in our "up and coming" neighborhood, I keep thinking of this scene from Tombstone.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-25542390673934970152011-06-10T16:39:00.002-06:002012-01-16T22:09:58.196-07:00

Sorry, Swallows, I couldn't resist offering you one of your beloved euphemisms. Anyway, my wife shared with me today that the owners of Kiva/Swallows/Exdo are taking yet another shot at putting a viable business in the old Tosh's building. Tenacious folks, huh? Kind of like a caged possum that will scratch and claw until it wears its little hands down to nubs rather than go quietly. Sorry,

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-89013472136116446162011-04-10T20:27:00.000-06:002011-04-10T20:27:34.262-06:00

So I noticed a few weeks ago that the old Marco's-High Street Speakeasy-Jezebel's-Gin and Sin building had a new sign up: High Street Bar and Grill. So, being the nosy guy I am, I stopped in to say hello. As was usually the case at Jezebel's, I was one of only three customers in the place during a Friday evening happy hour. I introduced myself to the folks behind the bar, who turned out to be

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-51565798580551706162010-09-15T20:20:00.000-06:002010-09-15T20:20:20.757-06:00

I'm at a loss for good content as of late. Other than social commentary on the welfare state, Lisa Calderon, or baby diapers in the dumpster (none of which would be positive), all I've got is pimping local biz that I love. I'm sitting right now at the Walnut Room, the coolest place within stumbling distance of our house, doing homework and drinking a tasty martini. Colians, have you checked this

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-9900392802426384802010-09-01T10:17:00.000-06:002010-09-01T10:17:27.737-06:00

Gotta admit, he's got it about right.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-73240922131193398562010-07-02T10:49:00.001-06:002010-07-02T10:51:20.931-06:00

I'm pretty sure I've posted this before, but here it is again. Absolutely hilarious writing.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-84528455019892461212010-05-25T14:53:00.000-06:002010-05-25T14:53:05.129-06:00

 

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-47725646862395688672010-04-29T14:44:00.001-06:002010-04-29T15:31:54.506-06:00

Kudos to a resident of Cole for passing this photo along. Apparently there are some Chicago gang member transplants out here in Cole, reminiscing about their home in the Windy City. I'd provide her credit for it but I tend to get in trouble for mentioning names/handles/initials so I'll wait for her to let me know if she wants props for it. This is of course the vacant lot at Bruce Randolph and

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-79428634893173236542010-04-25T20:31:00.000-06:002010-04-25T20:31:33.352-06:00

Did anyone else catch that George Nissen, the inventor of the trampoline died last week? I've always wondered what legacy I'll leave when I'm gone. What was George Nissen's legacy? Well, for starters, eighty years and thousands of kids with head injuries, broken arms and broken legs. E.R. docs and orthopedic surgeons owe so much of their livelihood to Mr. Nissen. George Nissen's invention has

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-87195191939949321792010-03-26T17:40:00.001-06:002010-03-26T17:40:56.944-06:00

So there I was tonight at the dog park, braving mud and sleet and snow to get my dog a little activity, and I learned from a friend that there was a new blues bar in Cole. Nope, no kidding--A  Blues Bar! So I rushed right over to the former Marco's place at 39th and High Street, to find Jezebel's Juke Joint and Brothel. I almost fell out of my car I was so stunned. I rushed inside, soaking wet

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-73750154150577119812010-03-25T13:47:00.001-06:002010-03-26T18:01:36.587-06:00

It's a pretty regular occurrence to see an ambulance pull up to a certain house on our block. Two of the sons  living there are extreme alcoholics, and the daughter has a drug problem. One of them pretty regularly overdoes it, and call in the ambulance. The mother, an elderly woman with her own issues, has needed assistance from time-to-time as well. Since they have no car, they call 911 whenever

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-58070642995711355792010-03-13T00:46:00.011-07:002010-03-17T14:19:30.442-06:00

So who knew that I’d stir such controversy by simply stating the fact that the overtly gay theme of the new “Swallows Video Lounge” would likely not appeal to a significant percentage of the Cole Neighborhood’s residents? A commenter was so offended with my commments, that she made it clear she would boycott the Cole Neighborhood Association. Not sure why she'd get such a knee-jerk reaction from

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-8268820389834252182010-03-10T11:32:00.000-07:002010-03-10T11:32:16.318-07:00

Have an opinion about what Cole's neighborhood plan should look like? Just want to be in the loop? Don't miss this meeting tomorrow night at EXDO. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello, my name is Courtland Hyser, and I’m the City of Denver’s project manager for a new small area plan called the Northeast Downtown

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-74370035270581269862010-03-10T10:36:00.000-07:002010-03-10T10:36:15.439-07:00

Cole-ites: (Colians? Hmm....) If you haven't checked out the Cole Chronicles, a much better-written and more constructive blog about the neighborhood, I highly recommend you check it out. The author just posted a very funny (and insightful) post about progress in the neighborhood: http://denver.yourhub.com/Denver/Blogs/Your-Voice/Blog~743280.aspx As always, thanks for reading, and for caring

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-91774029373191685852010-02-28T12:44:00.000-07:002010-02-28T12:44:45.531-07:00

Keep your eyes out for a couple of drunks swerving down the street on a matching pair of turquoise and yellow Schwinn Beach Cruisers. More info here: http://denver.craigslist.org/bik/1621309041.html

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-68752011667814375732010-02-26T17:55:00.001-07:002010-02-26T17:57:03.891-07:00

It should be happening every single day the way people act over here. Between the old-timer drunks that see you coming and dare you to hit them by walking right out in front of you, to the kids that carelessly just run into the street, it's like a game of Frogger around here most days. Just today, I almost hit some kid as he ran right out in front of my bike as I rode by his house on Franklin.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-68895929270353321522010-02-26T17:40:00.006-07:002010-02-27T21:46:45.649-07:00

Know how ships have waterlines? Buildings in the barrio have graffiti lines. Lines above which the little punk kids cannot reach; below where you paint over graffiti with whatever closeout paint you can find at Home Depot. More interesting is this highly-sophisticated data analysis showing historical change in Cole's graffiti line. As you'll see it's been steadily rising since the turn

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-32990551675161773112010-02-23T13:35:00.000-07:002010-02-23T13:35:48.232-07:00

Was at the dogpark today and was approached by a guy driving around looking for his lost dog. No, not a Pitt. He's missing a gray-and-white American Bulldog pup. I *think* he said his address was 2848 Humboldt? If this guy is reading and I've got it wrong (I likely might) please post a comment. Otherwise, if you find this pup I would go to 2800 Humboldt and see if anyone knows a bigger white bald

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-61130086892225469662010-02-22T13:34:00.013-07:002010-02-28T12:43:35.832-07:00

Just got back from the Fuller dog park. Anyone noticed the signs up about the lost "Pitt Bull"? Now before I get started on this topic, let me say that I think Pits can be wonderful dogs, and I'm sad when I hear that anyone has lost their dog. So if it's your dog, and you are a responsible owner and love your dog as much as I love mine, I certainly hope you find it. But I find it potentially

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-48105486224916574482010-02-10T17:00:00.000-07:002010-02-10T17:00:46.873-07:00

My neighbor sent me a link to this today:I might actually get one. (For those of you that don't know, this is from a funny article by Eli Kearney  from way back in 2006).

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-54599236504758301172010-02-10T16:55:00.000-07:002010-02-10T16:55:05.164-07:00

I realized that my wife says "Hmmm.... What do we have going on over here?" in only two very specific (and different)instances since we moved into Cole Neighborhood. One, when she sees something suspicious. Two, when she sees another house being fixed up. And I have to admit she's been using it in the second context much more frequently as of late.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-39602621018814210012010-01-31T17:38:00.005-07:002010-02-03T09:13:43.504-07:00

Readers of this marvelous online publication know that I am a big fan of locally-owned businesses. Businesses started by an entrepreneur that believed they had something unique to offer the marketplace--And apparently do, since their businesses are viable.One of the key benefits of living in the "vibrant" Cole Neighborhood (They were calling it sketchy but they couldn't sell any homes there) is

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-70566278350463856202010-01-28T13:04:00.001-07:002010-01-28T13:11:21.902-07:00

Walking the dogs today, I was surprised to see two upcoming changes in businesses in the area: First, The Econo Mart is going out of business, and their spot in the Down-and-Out Super building is up for lease. I guess with the recession and all used Salsa CD's and black-light prints of Jesus Christ and Tupac aren't selling like they used to. What do you all think, has Cole transformed enough

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-48137730134520095362010-01-25T12:40:00.001-07:002010-01-25T12:41:03.594-07:00

Boy, you pretty much can't go for a walk in Cole without seeing something funny. I'm going to try to share more of these sights through this blog in the days to come. Here are a couple recent pics: You usually get more than you bargained  for when you buy a home in Cole. Here, you not only get the house, but a stylish new belt. Ahh, the Happy Tagger. Sharing peace, goodwill,

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-25810766603421224992009-12-15T11:33:00.001-07:002009-12-15T11:33:57.374-07:00

Just found this article suggesting the place is for rent again: http://www.listown.com/parking-storage/dv/200912/138949.htm Sounds like she's renting both sides (3700 and 3704)... Hmmm... anyone know the story?

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-33765482149702251002009-12-10T21:48:00.001-07:002009-12-10T22:01:05.496-07:00

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-59547976992067434082009-12-10T21:23:00.002-07:002009-12-10T21:23:54.707-07:00

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/21914329/detail.html?taf=den

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-35518844419295259992009-11-20T16:29:00.000-07:002009-11-20T16:29:14.475-07:00

So I just got my District 2 Newsletter, which included notes about the seasonal removal of "portolets" (Porto-Johns, Ameri-Cans, you know) from many parks. And I quote: "It is that time of year when we reduce the amount of portable toilets in our parks since permitted activities drastically drop off until spring." So long story short, the discrete places for "the regulars" (you know, drunks,

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-21951322772497461702009-11-02T10:17:00.001-07:002009-11-02T11:29:04.504-07:00

Has anyone been over on the 3700 block of Franklin lately? I posted a couple weeks ago how the cool old building on the NE corner of 37th and Franklin was being fixed up. Also, a duplex on the block just got a very tasteful flip. Now the awesome old "Railroad Overall Laundry" building is being renovated. No idea what the story is, but guessing it will be a residence like the similar building a

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-49480265630721561702009-10-25T15:42:00.000-06:002009-10-25T15:42:42.406-06:00

Nothing says "Halloween, Cole Style" like spooky police tape...

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-20399057207151121492009-10-02T16:42:00.000-06:002009-10-02T16:42:07.151-06:00

City Councilman Doug Linkhart, on DPD's placing crime-prevention cameras in high-crime areas of town: "The public has a right to be wary," Linkhart said Of what? Of getting caught on tape picking their noses? These are cameras temporarily placed in high-crime, public, right-of-way areas. Don't get it. If you aren't up to no good, why would you care if there's a camera taping you as you walk or

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-22305963547199899052009-10-02T16:25:00.001-06:002009-10-02T16:26:00.510-06:00

If you haven't checked it out, and want some interesting (though hardly enlightening) reading, I highly recommend all residents take advantage of the citywide crime data available at the City of Denver website. You can see the trending of crime by category citywide, and by neighborhood. For example, here are the most recent breakdowns for Denver and for Cole. What can we learn from these

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-18343131670149921782009-10-02T11:29:00.001-06:002009-10-07T16:59:53.086-06:00

The neat old building on 37th and Franklin that has been a drug store, brothel, day care, and most recently, residences, is being re-modeled to be a coffee shop. Interesting location, but the building could be really cool in this use. I actually used to live here and always thought it would be neat if the owner, Nancy Greene, re-purposed it for commercial use at some point. It'll be a tough road

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-21811315711456843382009-09-15T21:01:00.001-06:002009-09-17T08:49:34.727-06:00

Ever been out walking your dog, and either they "take care of business" more times than you have bags? Or, if you think "Hey, Snuggles just went #2, there's no chance he'll need to go on this walk...", but he inevitably does? One nice thing about living in Cole, is that when you're in a pinch like this, there inevitably is a plastic bag (or "ghetto tumbleweed" as my neighbor so cleverly called '

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-77228080215974530232009-09-14T10:50:00.007-06:002009-09-14T11:00:09.187-06:00

I walked the dogs by Curtis Park today and noticed that the renovations to the old Curtis Park Flats are nearly complete, with "For Sale" signs in each front window. The East corner unit has already sold! Those places were real problem properties, as this article illuminates, so this is very encouraging for Curtis Park--Park and neighborhood. And good for us over here in Cole, too. It's also

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-73911653336357102212009-09-06T12:29:00.007-06:002009-09-06T13:36:28.617-06:00

My wife texted me the other day after heading downtown to work to let me know of a new restaurant just south of our neighbhorhood on Larimer--The Larimer Hot House. It was a new joint in the building formerly home of Espo's Gelato.Readers of this blog know that I am all about local, independent businesses and try my best to support them whenever possible. That can mean discovering some really

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-64916871342324849202009-09-04T18:02:00.002-06:002009-09-04T18:03:26.064-06:00

Came across this walking the dogs tonight.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-82692859023066704962009-09-01T13:24:00.000-06:002009-09-01T13:25:28.666-06:00

http://www.denverpost.com/business/ci_13107276

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-69173485079664495872009-09-01T12:52:00.002-06:002009-09-01T12:56:48.937-06:00

Well, with the city pools closed, kids back in school, and football season starting, it's clear that summer is fading into fall. And that means no more "ice cream man".I grew up in a rural area, far from any city of any scale. So I have to admit I enjoy hearing the ice cream man come by all summer in Cole, as I didn't have that as a kid.I have to also admit that every time I hear the ice cream

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-57161090407038705982009-08-26T13:07:00.006-06:002009-09-01T12:59:49.331-06:00

I'm so thrilled to say that Darryl Nylund, the flip guru of Cole, has his new duplex at 3447 and 3449 Marion Street ready to go. They should show up on the listings in the next two days.Yet another problem house fixed up and being sold to (hopefully) good new neighbors.I don't have the specifics, but I think he's selling each side of the duplex for around $150k or so? Pretty much new throughout,

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-15159989479572093562009-08-17T19:23:00.008-06:002009-08-18T08:34:14.690-06:00

Even Google's Street View tells the entire story of your property.When your home is in such a state of disrepair (or "renovation" as the owner calls it) for four years, that this is the Street view photo the Google truck captures:Or, if unsavory characters are loitering around, drinking, buying and selling prohibited substances, or soliciting prostitution frequently enough that said characters

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-28978764231089441252009-08-17T13:49:00.002-06:002009-08-17T19:23:23.163-06:00

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-30396926232869598682009-07-24T14:48:00.005-06:002009-07-24T14:53:20.347-06:00

Anyone else have a horrific fly problem right now? I don't know if it's the dumpster right out back of our house that frequently has chicken bones, other food, and dirty baby diapers dumped (sans bag) in it, or the fact that one of our neighbors is running a perpetual soda can recycling program out of their back yard, but the flies have been AWFUL around here since around a week after the 4th

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-49368428459264894152009-06-26T16:34:00.005-06:002009-06-26T16:46:17.145-06:00

Two folks I met through this blog (Shocked, actually, I guess I don't offend EVERYONE) bought an awesome home in Cole recently, and moved in a couple of weeks ago... and were immediately burglarized...Yes, bummer. Not a great welcome to a couple of really nice folks willing to chance it in Cole.Have we been burglarized in three plus years here? Nope, at least not yet. Have any of our friends? Yes

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-23107794731179351212009-06-23T14:40:00.005-06:002009-06-23T14:55:09.960-06:00

I stumbled across the following clip today that instantly made me think of Cole. Basically, how many of the "activists" or "organizers" in the neighborhood seem to downplay the crime and violence in the area--Suggesting that it isn't so bad, and doesn't justify the current level of police presence. Or, why residents become fearful, or that their attitude towards the neighborhood changes due to

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-62066057683953995262009-06-11T11:33:00.001-06:002009-06-11T11:33:42.264-06:00

http://www.denvergov.org/Portals/193/documents/38th%20and%20Blake.pdf

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-58271074074479472712009-06-05T10:33:00.002-06:002009-06-05T10:38:10.574-06:00

One of the nicest things about living is Cole is our proximity to City Park. While still a bit sketchier and less gentrified than Wash Park (for better and for worse), it's arguably Denver's most beautiful park.This Sunday the longest-running bike race in the state returns to City Park. Rocky Mountain Road Club, the second coolest team in the state (behind Twin Peaks Racing) is hosting the 38th

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-7548906651475053672009-06-03T16:37:00.003-06:002009-06-03T16:45:20.718-06:00

Anyone notice the recent upswing in "Oldies" gang-related graffiti lately? If you happen to see a kid on your block with black spray-paint on his hands, kick him in the gonads for me, OK?It's going to be a busy summer for the little thuggitos, that's for sure.Get your dumpster paint ready, and make sure DPAG's number is in your phone so you can call this crap in when you're out walking the

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-90017887677543693632009-05-11T20:35:00.002-06:002009-05-11T20:58:25.400-06:00

As I've mentioned before, living in Cole definitely has a musical component. Generally loud latin music booming from a slammed Ford F-150. More fun is the nostalgia I feel when I see someone walk by with a "boom box" or "ghetto blaster" from back in the 80's cranking some Cube. (Oh, as a pasty white kid, I used to burn through those D-batteries listening to my Huey Lewis and The News and Hall and

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-58509616938330116462009-05-05T15:20:00.006-06:002009-05-05T16:05:48.132-06:00

I guess it's only fair to share some of the very cool things that are happening over here, to balance out my rather cynical bent as of late. So that the haters can't say I'm nothing but negative, here are ten things I'm excited about in Cole right now:The CNA's recent energy--The CNA has been active for several years, but wow--The last 12 months seem to have brought a whole new vitality and

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-73419502824994663312009-05-01T15:37:00.014-06:002009-07-24T14:54:46.442-06:00

You don't have to walk far in Cole to trip across a "Kentucky Deluxe" whiskey bottle. Yup, many long-time Cole residents love their drinking, and they overwhelmingly choose Kentucky Deluxe.And no secret why. The bottle reads: "A choice blended whiskey that possesses the character and taste a connoisseur desires and expects from a great whiskey." We apparently have a good number of fine whiskey

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-58192222089864553602009-04-26T10:08:00.012-06:002009-05-11T20:58:52.004-06:00

So there is an organization in Cole... they call themselves something like "Neighborhood Collective" or something (stating, "We're a group of color with some white allies", racism anyone?). They've apparently formed in opposition of the RNO's (registered neighborhood associations) like the Cole Neighborhood Association, claiming that the RNO's aren't "representative" enough.Though last time I

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-3634456620389771492009-04-24T10:46:00.002-06:002009-04-24T10:48:44.655-06:00

Wow, an exciting vision for the future of Cole, as it relates to the new 38th and Blake transit station...

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-64285662372316955752009-04-23T20:53:00.004-06:002009-04-23T21:04:21.420-06:00

So I shared that I had heard that Kiva would be re-opening at some point. Not much visible activity on that front until recently when I saw that there was a notice of zoning change on the building--Basically being re-zoned to allow for mixed residential and commercial I think. Makes sense, given how cavernous the building is. I just hope something opens up there again relatively soon.But the big

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-8397540252851360222009-04-10T09:50:00.007-06:002009-04-10T21:03:58.393-06:00

So I've lived here in Cole for almost 4 years now, and as a result I think I have a pretty good feel for the area. I was just thinking the other night, of all the valuable things I've learned, and thought I should share for any other new or prospective residents.So, here are the top 10 things I have learned about living in Cole:When you're budgeting for your mortgage, be sure to include some

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-55274666729428609172009-04-06T22:09:00.002-06:002009-04-06T22:11:29.508-06:00

I just noticed something quite sad: Three of my "Fave 5" on my T-mobile plan are city agencies related to living in the ghetto.If three of your "Fave 5" are the police department, graffiti removal, and neighborhood inspection services, you might live in the 'hood...

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-54330769135371617072009-03-09T11:54:00.003-06:002009-03-09T12:02:11.349-06:00

Still good news for Cole, but Park Hill is the big winner here:http://www.denverpost.com/breakingnews/ci_11867922So for now, we're still stuck with the abhorrent market known as the "Down and Out Super"...Bummer.The bright side is I'll still be able to get my pig's feet, lengua, and Jesus Candles nearby for years to come...

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-19259229070434298712009-03-03T10:57:00.003-07:002009-03-03T11:05:21.231-07:00

Reminder: Cole, Whittier and several other surrounding Metro neighborhoods have been selected once again for free street trees from Denver Digs. How many trees can you get planted on your block? Imagine the difference they'd make. Last year a couple folks on our block got 13 trees planted. Amazing.To learn how you, or some of your neighbors can get a free street tree (or perhaps several) visit

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-17936334931540618362009-02-25T20:09:00.006-07:002009-02-25T20:17:12.751-07:00

Here is the awful, apocalyptic future of the Cole Neighborhood as envisioned by several "neighborhood organizers" and "activists" that lament the inevitable, cyclical change of Urban Denver.No, they're not talking about global warming. Nope, not pollution. Nope, not crime. Tornadoes? Wrong again. Locusts? Way off!Nope, Cole neighborhood's immaculate reputation and rich cultural history will be

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-60556501712014335902009-02-09T01:36:00.005-07:002009-02-09T17:38:05.415-07:00

I've written here before about Denver's ubiquitous weed tree, the Ailanthus, or "ghetto palm" as it is frequently called. No smell, other than perhaps the Purina plant on a windy day, is more associated with Denver in my mind than the Ailanthus trees in flower in June. An unpleasant odor to say the least, somewhere between cat urine and b.o., it's not one of the finer points of living in urban

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-39798682866540523252009-02-06T13:46:00.013-07:002009-04-10T10:35:40.738-06:00

Or so a regular and active Hispanic attendee of the Cole Neighborhood Association meetings says from time to time. (Please note again, I do NOT represent or speak for CNA, nor am I a frequent attendee of their meetings. Again, my posts don't claim to be anything than my personal opinion)------------------------------------------------------------------------------"Everydaylife" writes in the

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-60898328575068021072009-01-21T21:29:00.004-07:002009-01-23T16:23:01.904-07:00

Remember that game you played in school where you whispered a phrase into someone's ear, and they whispered it in someone else's, and so on and so forth around the room, until it came back to you, inevitably altered beyond belief? What was it called... Operator?Tonight there was some hubbub at the Down-and-Out (Downing) Super that drew about six police cars, an ambulance, and a fire truck. I

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-54354468772415457852009-01-13T08:55:00.004-07:002009-01-15T22:08:21.602-07:00

Just got word from a friend involved in the leadership of one of the neighborhood associations and it sounds like Blackberries and Club Dynasty are out at the old Tosh's building on Downing Street. Can't say I didn't expect this. My best guess was that they would go out of business before February.More interesting, is it sounds like Kiva is coming back... with some scaled back hours, but with

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-26640785910174647352009-01-07T13:30:00.005-07:002009-01-07T13:40:46.374-07:00

Cole, Whittier and several other surrounding Metro neighborhoods have been selected once again for free street trees from Denver Digs.No secret why planting more trees in our largely barren 'hood just makes sense. Beautification, shade, or even just blocking your view of the crackhouse across the street.How many trees can you get planted on your block? Imagine the difference they'd make. Last

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-21757543518232032502008-11-24T12:26:00.004-07:002008-11-24T12:45:08.970-07:00

I came across an interesting article that adds newfound support to the "Broken Windows" theory of law enforcement. In all reality, while some local activists argue otherwise, the Denver Police Department practices a multi-pronged aproach in Cole that at best loosely borrows select elements from Broken Windows (CompStat resource allocation and an emphasis on graffiti abatement, for example).Where

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-77929966139508837862008-11-21T11:50:00.003-07:002008-11-21T11:52:02.666-07:00

From the Rocky Mountain News:Sandy DouglasThe 24-year Cole neighborhood resident helped found its neighborhood association in 1999 and was integral in getting the Environmental Protection Agency to clean up contamination caused by old smelting plants in the Cole, Clayton and Elyria Swansea neighborhoods under the Superfund program.Douglas was instrumental in launching the Central Denver Community

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-51217468420595665542008-11-21T11:07:00.001-07:002008-11-21T11:08:33.745-07:00

http://www.thedenverdailynews.com/article.php?aID=2543

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-79323791914497664962008-11-04T07:43:00.002-07:002008-11-04T07:45:12.425-07:00

http://www.thedenverdailynews.com/article.php?aID=2344

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-82198036278754482852008-11-03T07:29:00.003-07:002008-11-03T07:33:01.947-07:00

Workers just spent the weekend putting a fresh coat of paint on one of the remaining "problem houses" on our block. The owner of the home is trying to sell the house, in an obviously challenging market.The paint job was much needed--Here's hoping it helps him sell the place to some responsible home-0wners that are yet another brick in the increasingly solid foundation of our neighborhood.For

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-12223639836977065762008-10-30T12:52:00.006-06:002008-11-03T07:35:34.322-07:00

Anyone else out there think Cole, Whittier, Five Points, Curtis Park, etc., have done our share in terms of hosting social services facilities? Anyone else think it's time they start building these facilities, though important, somewhere else in Denver?Anyone out there aware of the Bo Matthews Center project to build a large residential facility for the homeless and ex-cons in our neighborhood?

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-87394916526582923282008-10-27T15:30:00.004-06:002008-10-27T15:32:09.395-06:00

Just found an article by Westword on the business(es) going in at the "old" Kiva and Tosh's building on Downing Street:http://blogs.westword.com/cafesociety/2008/10/from_toshs_hacienda_to_kiva_to.phpInteresting doesn't do it justice...Also a good history of the building...

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-90064102325030610792008-10-24T18:23:00.005-06:002008-10-24T18:40:04.363-06:00

A friend stopped by our house today mentioning that he thought he saw some new "happy hour 4-7" signs on Kiva's building.Wondering what the heck was going on, I headed over there tonight--To find the parking lot packed (at least Kiva packed). Bass rattled the windows of the normally serene Kiva dining room--And it was only 6PM. Yup, something had changed.Still Kiva signs outside, but when you

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-39199457815950558422008-10-23T18:15:00.004-06:002008-10-23T18:16:47.319-06:00

Anyone else notice that the same locals here that can't afford a lawnmower to keep the weeds down, can't afford water to keep their trees from dying, and that don't care that their home is in a perpetua state of deterioration, can find money to pimp out their homes extravagantly for Halloween?

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-82039659237363863352008-10-09T10:12:00.006-06:002008-11-03T07:33:56.700-07:00

Just got wind of a rumor that the Downing Supermarket (or the "Down And Out Super" as I call it) might be closing!This could be great news for the neighborhood if it's true! That is assuming someone else would move in... which I would think someone would have to...I think the Cole Neighborhood Association is actively working on some sort of commerce feasibility study to help attract new

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-6228933198055630332008-08-19T22:08:00.004-06:002008-08-26T11:06:42.256-06:00

Well, what has at times seemed the inevitable for over two years, Kiva Restaurant has closed. I rode my bike by the other Monday--Usually their busiest day of the week other than Drunk Kiva Sundays due to their quite inventive "parents night out" (where they provided free child care for parents dining out)--and was shocked to see no cars on the street or in the parking lot. On the front door, a

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-34145870514449644422008-08-01T17:22:00.005-06:002009-05-01T20:11:48.883-06:00

Folks,Do you hate graffiti as much as I do? I hate it so much I think we should consider implementing some sort of medieval or middle eastern punishment for graffiti painting. Cut off a gang-banger's hands and I'm pretty sure you won't be seeing his signature painted on a dumpster near you anytime soon. But that's another story...I just wanted to share with the rest of the barrio that the folks

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-61810572019791502582008-07-27T09:53:00.001-06:002008-07-27T09:53:38.698-06:00

Here we are in late July in the driest year on record in Denver proper. Cole Neighborhood, with its relative lack of mature trees, grass, and other vegetation, doesn't need any help looking barren and dry. When can we expect some freakin' rain?It sprinkled today--Honest. I was out watering the grass this evening and I felt a drop--one drop--on my arm. That was it.Pretty ironic to me that I moved

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-80509203598509310742008-07-27T09:51:00.001-06:002008-07-27T09:52:58.351-06:00

Have you gotten wind of the city's plan (apparently supported by the Colorado Coalition For the Homeless) to provide bus and movie tickets, even tickets to the zoo, to make sure when the world spotlight is on our wonderful city, people don't see the chronic homeless problem?Seriously--Tickets to the zoo--Don't believe me? Read more here.My favorite quote is this, from none other than the

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-26484061910174309212008-07-27T09:50:00.002-06:002008-07-27T09:51:37.775-06:00

Ahhh... the sights and sounds of Cole.Took the dogs for a walk late last night on what turned out to be more of the same as far as this neighborhood goes. A few highlights:A bunch of nice people out watering their lawns. More and more folks are sprucing up their yards, despite the near-record drought we're experiencing.A few folks sitting on their porch that were less-than-friendly and

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-45446870026823514432008-07-27T09:49:00.000-06:002008-07-27T09:50:04.058-06:00

We just got some "new neighbors"--figuratively (as many African-Americans in Cole/Whittier refer to white people) and literally.They bought the house right next door. Last year at this time we had nice Mexican neighbors that didn't take care of their house, and wouldn't call the cops when crime was occurring on the block. Today, we have nice white neighbors that take care of their house and have

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-31258353998909822192008-07-27T09:48:00.002-06:002008-10-31T09:20:52.984-06:00

If you haven't watched the News 2 interview of Curtis Park shooter Daniel Lujan, you've got to.It just shows how twisted these idiot gang-bangers really are:The kid says the shooting was "unintentional" and he's clearly remorseful about shooting the little girl. However, he's an admitted member of the Oldies 13 Mexican-Mafia affiliated gang that has no qualms about shooting anyone else. He was

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-53800092890210303992008-07-27T09:47:00.001-06:002009-05-01T20:17:32.685-06:00

I just found out that my neighbor's cat, that I gave to him, was set on fire this morning while in his back alley. I can't even begin to describe how pissed and horrified I am right now. But it's just another incident in a very disheartening couple of weeks.June 15th an apparent gang-banger shot another gang-banger on 35th and Marion (less than a block away from my house).Two days later, I was

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-366041608771000072008-07-27T09:46:00.000-06:002008-07-27T09:47:03.205-06:00

It's 12:30 PM and I should be in bed with my wonderful wife. However, something about the clear, calm Denver night inspired me to head out to our front porch to enjoy the evening weather.This likely won't be the most succinct, nor the most focused post of the history of this blog.Those of you that read the previous version of it, The Cole Neighborhood Memoirs, know I frequently headed down

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-89494164990627919982008-07-27T09:45:00.002-06:002008-07-27T09:46:25.671-06:00

Here are a couple of interesting articles that might be of interest to Cole residents.First, I found an article that is the best account of the recent history of Cole I've seen. Read it here.Second, my wife passed this article along about the emerging trend of reurbanization in America. Speaks very well for the future of Cole, and our investment here.Enjoy.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-85026459077003985342008-07-27T09:45:00.001-06:002008-07-27T09:45:44.914-06:00

Owning big dogs in the 'hoodJust moved to the 'hood and starved for conversation? Feeling lonely? Get a big dog or two. My wife and I can't take our dogs for a walk a block away without getting some sort of interesting comment from folks in the neighborhood.Here are some gems:Are they spaded?Got any puppies?Can I buy your dogs?Them Rockwilers? (They are in fact Rottweilers)Them is some big-ass

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-66778051479876139212008-07-27T09:44:00.001-06:002008-07-27T09:44:20.073-06:00

Is it just me, or have there been like eleventy-billion crane accidents in the last couple years?I'm watching Fox News right now and they're talking about yet another crane accident, this one in Dallas, Texas. Think American cars are unreliable, what about our cranes?In fact, crane accidents are apparently so frequent that there is a website devoted exclusively to 'em. Forget Alaskan crab fishing

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-75099386503767799082008-07-27T09:43:00.001-06:002008-07-27T09:43:33.199-06:00

I'm sure most of you have already seen this, and I'm late in posting, but here is a recent article highlighting our own Cole Neighborhood in Denver.It's great to see the progress we've made over here be recognized, though in a very basic way.More meaningful posts to come. Promise.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-13805344857784989272008-07-27T09:41:00.000-06:002008-07-27T09:42:24.431-06:00

After a six month hiatus, the Cole Neighborhood Memoirs is back.It's 11PM and I type as this speak as yet another crack head leaves the house across the street from mine.I took this blog down a few months ago because I grew tired of the constant criticisms from civil libertarians, whiners, and others that in my opinion take things far too seriously, portraying me and my views as narrow minded,

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-3184448026931046792007-11-26T17:14:00.000-07:002007-11-26T17:16:26.622-07:00

...is this Thursday Nov. 29th from 6:00-8:00 at 3280 Downing Street in the US Bank Community room.Anyone interested in more information about the CNA can contact Sarah Schultz, snschultz@gmail.com.Also sounds like the next actual CNA meeting will be January 31st, in the same location and same time.

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-24183886140625842362007-11-19T18:46:00.000-07:002007-11-19T18:50:08.542-07:00

Folks,I've mentioned numerous times the great crime data that is available from the Denvergov.org website, and they've now taken it one step further, providing real-time (24 hour) updates, and the ability to zero in on your neighborhood and block and see first-hand where, when, and what type of crimes are occurring in your area.Be sure to check it out!And thanks again for reading, and for caring

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-87633243676028155742007-11-14T17:14:00.001-07:002007-11-14T17:54:01.966-07:00

I was thinking more about the comment that came into this site recently claiming that "the best way to fight crime in Cole is to oppose illegal immigration", and thought that I should elaborate on my point that there are many things we can do NOW to fight crime and improve the situation in Cole. Again, I agree that illegal immigration is a HUGE issue right now, and at the root of many of

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-42259378010997828932007-11-06T12:43:00.000-07:002007-11-06T12:45:54.516-07:00

For those of you that have been asking for more neighborhood "news" and opportunities to be involved, here's your chance.C-WAC, in my opinion, has made great strides in cleaning up this area, while increasing the cooperation between (reasonable) residents and the police department.That having been said, they need more residents to be involved, and speak up about their concerns and needs.So,

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-36212151085469630852007-11-02T08:23:00.000-06:002007-11-02T08:33:10.679-06:00

I got an encouraging email that I thought I should share on this site--It's from one of the new leaders of the Cole Neighborhood Association. I have been involved with the association in the past, but over time grew a bit frustrated at the lack of action--We always seemed to be long on talk about what we "should do" but never actually organizing any sort of true action. At some point I

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-37329542177589955782007-10-15T12:07:00.000-06:002007-10-15T12:13:10.031-06:00

I went out to the dumpster in our back alley this morning to find several dumpsters and the back of three residences (including ours) tagged with gang-related graffiti. I don't know (nor do I care) what exactly it all meant but is was some "East Side Tre Tre" bullshit. What a bunch of losers.I've already painted over most of it, but I just wish these guys had better things to do than deface a

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-55069671077578251462007-10-13T20:36:00.001-06:002007-10-13T20:39:11.189-06:00

So our neighbors' house that went into foreclosure sold at auction--For $125k, much less than the $170k they owed on it. The low sales price at least makes me hopeful that someone will see an opportunity to fix and flip the house, since it will give them plenty of margin to invest in renovations, which it will need many of.A guy came by today and winterized the place, so it doesn't look like

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-87444755181059343872007-10-10T09:39:00.000-06:002007-10-10T09:52:28.523-06:00

Don't miss this hilarious blog poking good-hearted fun at the grandiose names being assigned to cookie-cutter suburban housing developments.After reading this, I thought of some good options for Cole should we decide to re-name it, taking into account some of the local history and flavor of the area:1. "The Resort at Industry Meadow Acres"2. "The Sanctuary at Smelter Edge Gardens"3. "The Haven

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-51957544702863895952007-10-06T15:00:00.001-06:002007-10-06T15:08:29.406-06:00

Driving home the other night my wife and I passed a new art gallery over on Walnut Street, in a formerly abandoned and typically sketchy block. The house with tons of potential across the street has gotten some steady traffic, as has the home in foreclosure next door. Two historic-yet-neglected homes nearby have the huge, drive-up dumpsters in front of them, signifying a complete remodel (or "

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-82540427969404643982007-09-22T09:51:00.001-06:002007-09-22T09:55:15.287-06:00

My wife and I spent the entire evening last night on our front porch--How quiet it was! No police helicopter, no sirens, no drug buyers or sellers, no hookers, no "drama", nothing! I don't even think we saw a police car all night.Quite a change from what our block used to be like, and very welcome progress. And to be this quiet on a Friday? Amazing. I hope the evening was similarly quiet and

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27076644.post-70700156932931449572007-09-19T11:16:00.000-06:002007-09-19T11:19:37.844-06:00

In grabbing a cup today for my morning coffee, I noticed something funny: On the inside of the cabinet door (one of the few remaining fixtures in the house from the previous owners) I found gang graffiti--The "E/S" (East Side?) moniker that residents of Denver are all to familiar with.I guess it shouldn't surprise me, as we knew the house was previously owned by a drug dealer, but finding

BigSprinterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00686856918620545408noreply@blogger.com2